The Business
Justin Simien’s ‘Hollywood Black’ chronicles the pioneers of African American cinema; Phoenix and Paramount bail
Kim Masters and Matt Belloni discuss recent Hollywood developments, including Joaquin Phoenix's sudden exit from a film just days before shooting and Paramount Pictures' decision to shut down a studio and layoff 2,000 workers.
By Kim Masters • • 42m ListenKim Masters and Matt Belloni discuss recent Hollywood developments, including Joaquin Phoenix's sudden exit from a film just days before shooting and Paramount Pictures' decision to shut down a studio and layoff 2,000 workers. The industry grapples with uncertainty as Paramount and other major players navigate shifting dynamics.
Plus, NPR’s TV critic and media analyst, Eric Deggans speaks with ‘Dear White People’ creator Justin Simien. His new docuseries Hollywood Black chronicles over a century of Black experiences in Hollywood, exploring the contributions of Black actors, writers, and directors. Simien discusses the pivotal pioneers like Donald Bogle and Oscar Micheaux while sharing personal insights on navigating racial barriers in the industry.
In this episode
2 storiesPhoenix bails. Paramount shutters: Hollywood’s latest
Five days before the production of Christine Vachon’s film starring Joaquin Phoenix is set to start, the actor dropped out. For reasons unclear, what is certain is the producer’s outrage. The project was shut down.
Read the story23 minExploring Black cinema: Justin Simien on Hollywood Black
Filmmaker Justin Simien discusses ‘Hollywood Black,’ his docuseries exploring a century of Black cinema from minstrel shows to modern blockbusters.
Read the story19 min
