What Everyone Missed About Zoe Saldana as Nina Simone

Nina SIMONE; (Photo by David Redfern/Redferns) Actress Zoe Saldana (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Relativity Media)

With the pending release of Nina, noted intellectuals, journalists and storytellers are weighing in on the film’s casting of Zoe Saldana, a black Latina, as Nina Simone. The arguments center on colorism, erasure, appropriation and lackluster storytelling, but no time has been given to understanding Saldana’s perspective and experience as a woman of color. This understanding will not explain Saldana’s decision to take this role or our limitations in accepting her in the role, but it is important that we explore this complicated landscape.

Zombie Lore is Lost on Jimmy Donnellan

Jimmy Donnellan‘s, “Z Nation: The Inconsistent Show With One Fantastic Episode” is a biased and limited review of a fun show. Like too many critics, he equates seriousness with quality and he works from the theory that Z Nation (ZN) has to compete with The Walking Dead …

They Wanted and Needed Her Back!

On a day when the news was filled with racism, hatred and violence, Venus Williams walked into Stadium One at Indian Wells beaming and triumphant. After fifteen years, she returned to a place she boycotted, a place she did not feel respected or safe. This place of white privilege, showed her its growth and gratitude for the lesson she taught them with ear-splitting applause and a standing ovation. The commentators finally let go of their doubts, their discussions of whether the racist incident occurred and simply acknowledged the beauty and the significance of the moment.

Fan Series: The Veil of Integrity and Transparency

The rings are inches apart but miles different. The ringmaster or Monsieur Loyal directs my attention to the first ring and I am enthralled. Before I can fully expel my joy, he directs my attention to the second ring where my jubilation lifts me out of …