In K.O., director Antoine Blossier delivers a tense, emotionally layered thriller that strikes with quite an intensity and moral complexity. Set in the undercurrent of Paris’s fight scene, the film explores the collision between violence, guilt, and the human desire for redemption. At the center of the story is Bastien Durand, a once-promising MMA fighter whose career and conscience shatter when he accidentally kills an opponent during a sanctioned bout. Wracked with guilt and shunned by the world that once celebrated him, Bastien disappears from public life, retreating into isolation. But his past refuses to stay buried. K.O. is not about the glory of combat but the emotional wreckage it leaves behind. Blossier steers the film away from traditional fight drama clichés, focusing instead on psychological tension, intimate character dynamics, and the thin line between justice and forgiveness. K.O. examines themes of atonement, the ripple effect of loss, and the fragile hope that even broken people can heal. It’s a gripping, morally complex story where the greatest battle isn’t fought in a ring but within.
Movie Summary
The movie begins in an MMA Stage fight between two figter and in the hit of the moment one of the fighters (Bastien) kills the other while trying to escape from his grapple hook. He visits the opponents wake-keeping to pay his respect but he is sent away by the son and wife of the deceased.
Two years after, an incident occurs in an old factory where a gang killing by drug dealers happens. The son of the late fighter (Leo) is now a drug dealer and also an informant to a police officer (Alaoui) and he is a witness to the killing that occured at the factory. The gang well feared in Marseille even by the Police force now wants him dead so his mother runs to Bastien for help with her son whose life is in danger.
Bastien full of grieve and regrets of what had happened two years ago, quits fighting and resolve to living in isolation but now he must atone for his sins by saving the life of the son of the man he murdered. Getting to Marseille he meets with Alaoui who is also looking for Leo and their parts cross when he goes to the apartment of Leo’s cousin where the mother believed he was living.
They team up together to look for Leo after she was suspended from the Police force after fighting the security at a club where they went to get information about Leo’s whereabout. Bastien and Alaoui end up having a moment together and there after Leo is rescued from his hideout from the grip of the Manchours gang.
He is taken safely to the police station for statement but unknown to them there is a mole in the police station and they are attacked at the station.
Review: K.O. (2025) – A Quiet Thriller That Hits Where It Hurts
If you’re expecting a fast-paced fight movie filled with punches and cheers, K.O. will surprise you and in the best way possible. Directed by Antoine Blossier, this French thriller takes a very different route. It’s not about the fight in the ring; it’s about what happens after.
The movie is quiet and intense. There are a few violent moments, but they feel real and necessary not flashy but also begs of the question of what could have been. In regular films we see instances where common sense is required but if you are watching a film, most especially an action film and you try to apply your common sense to all the scenes then you will end up not enjoying the film.
There are some places you might have expected some things to be done differently but for the fun of the film it is done in the way it is. For example some of the mobs using cutlass and knifes to fight Bastien when they all have access to guns, (if they used guns and he used his bare hands then the movie will sure end sooner than it should be).
Commenting on the guilt and forgiveness part in the movie I understand from research that there are unspoken understanding between fighters on the dangers of the game and in some cases like UFC, Bellator, and PFL, fighters usually typically sign contracts and waivers acknowledging the risks of injury or death.
So my thoughts are that Bastien felt guilty because he wanted to and later on we found out that he had a similar childhood like Leo, his father was killed so he felt guilty that he was exposing someone else to such a world over again but aside that in its self he owed nothing to Leo and his mother for an accident that occured between both fighters, I know this would sound harsh and heartless but its just a movie and the story line I agree should have taken this turn for the purpose of everything that later happened.
The real focus is on the characters, their emotions, and how they try to make sense of a situation with no easy answers. What makes K.O. special is how real it feels. It doesn’t rush. It doesn’t pretend everything will be okay. It just shows two people trying to make peace with the past, while doing what they can in the present.
To calm the tension of the action packed film, like every other regular action movies Blossier creates a scene of romance and intimacy which was introduced between Bastien and Alaoui which to some like myself would say it’s unnecessary because they had just met and didn’t even know one another that well yet but the very first chance they get to be alone together they already end up having sex. The fighting scenes are well done to their standard and looks somewhat real though there are some places that could have been improved upon most especially in the last battle inside the Police station.
If you are someone who is used to watching films with subtitles and loves action packed movies then K.O. should be on your watch list though its original language is in French, with subtitle it is well understandable. I mean that is if you do not speak or understand French.
In 2025, Wizkid: Long Live Lagos made its grand debut at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, marking a special moment in both African music and global storytelling. More than just a documentary, the film is a celebration of Lagos culture, the rise of Afrobeats, and the life of one of Nigeria’s most iconic artists, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid.
A Cinematic Tribute to Wizkid
Directed by Karam Gill and produced alongside Daniel Malikyar, Long Live Lagos is a full-length documentary that takes fans on an emotional and cinematic journey through Wizkid’s life. From his early days in Surulere, Lagos, to the bright lights of international stardom, the film unpacks not only his success but also the spiritual and cultural roots that shaped him. It isn’t just about music; it’s about legacy, identity, and the city that birthed a global movement.
Inside the Film: What to Expect
The documentary offers never-before-seen footage of Wizkid’s life — intimate family moments, studio sessions, and electrifying performances. It’s an unfiltered look at the man behind the music, revealing his vulnerabilities, growth, and deep connection to Lagos.
Featuring appearances and commentary from influential voices such as:
Femi Kuti – Afrobeat legend and cultural icon
Jada Pollock – Wizkid’s longtime manager and partner
Sunday Are – Veteran manager and music executive
Julie Adenuga – British-Nigerian media personality and radio host
These voices help narrate Wizkid’s evolution and the role he’s played in reshaping how African talent and Afrobeat as a whole is seen around the world.
A Landmark Premiere at Tribeca
Long Live Lagos was part of Tribeca Film Festival’s Spotlight+ category — a prestigious slot that included films on Billy Joel and Miley Cyrus. The premiere was powerful, personal, and unforgettable. Wizkid attended with his young daughter, providing an emotional glimpse into his life as a father and artist. During the post-screening Q&A, he admitted the decision to let cameras into his private life was tough. “It wasn’t easy,” he said, “but I want my fans to see the real me.”
The Broader Message: Lagos as a Creative Force
Beyond Wizkid’s personal story, Long Live Lagos is a love letter to the city that raised him. It captures the essence of Lagos. Its hustle, creativity, rhythm and positions it has as a central player in the global entertainment scene. The documentary doesn’t just follow a superstar’s rise; it also talks about how a city gave birth to a sound that changed the world.
Previous Documentaries vs. Long Live Lagos
While Wizkid has appeared in other documentaries before, like Lagos to London (2018), A Day in the Live of Wizkid (2020), and A Superstar Made in Lagos (2021), this is his most complete and personal documentary to date.
Where & When to Watch
Currently, Long Live Lagos is available only through screenings at Tribeca Film Festival (June 4–15, 2025). However, because of its ties to HBO Documentary Films, it is expected to be released on HBO Max or similar streaming platforms soon. Follow Streamdorm on all major social media to get updates on possible HBO announcements, or festival updates for global release dates.
Are you a true Wizkid fan?
For fans, this film is more than a biography. It’s a mirror into Wizkid’s soul, his journey, and the impact he has had on a generation. It’s also a powerful reminder of how far Afrobeats has come and how Lagos remains its beating heart. Wizkid: Long Live Lagos is not just a music documentary, it’s a cultural moment. It blends emotion, history, and the magic of Lagos to tell a story that fans across the world will connect with. Whether you’ve followed him since Superstar or you’re just discovering his music, this film is a must-watch celebration of one of Africa’s big three.
In Straw, filmmaker Tyler Perry steps into darker, more intimate territory with a tense and emotionally charged character study featuring someone I can easily say has a talent for depicting emotional characters in movies, Taraji P. Henson.
The story centers on Janiyah Wilkinson, a single mother fighting to stay afloat in a world that refuses to cut her a break. What begins as an ordinary, difficult day job troubles, landlady threatening on possible eviction, unrelenting bills, and her child being rediculed in school. When Janiyah walks into a bank, weighed down by invisible grief and desperate circumstances, a moment of quiet surrender erupts into a national crisis.
But Straw is not just a story about breaking points, it’s a haunting unraveling of a woman’s mind, shaped by years of silent suffering and breaking point. As the truth behind Janiyah’s emotional collapse surfaces, the film becomes a raw portrayal of the systems that fail the most vulnerable, and the expectations that silence their pain.
Review and Plot Summary
Tyler Perry’s Straw is a slow-burning, emotionally volatile drama that marks a noticeable evolution in his filmmaking rooted in psychological tension. Over the years we have seen amazing movie projects that provoke emotions from lovers of his works. This sort of films like “The Six Triple Eight”, “Acrimony”, “Daddy’s Little Girls”, including other non emotional films and now “Straw” has unarguably set him among some of the finest producers and filmmakers in Hollywood.
Taraji P. Henson starring as Janiyah is a wise decision expected from a top producer like Perry, she has over time proven herself as some who is a talented actress and has an extra touch when it comes to playing roles that depicts emotions. Thinking about movies like “Acrimony”, “Hidden Figures” she played the role given to her which so much intensity that viewers could feel whatever it is she is going through and Straw was not any different.
Henson plays Janiyah Wilkinson, a single mother drowning beneath the weight of ordinary life: financial instability, emotional isolation, and an uncaring system. What begins as a portrait of quiet suffering quickly escalates into something far more serious that led to protest outbreak, a hostage situation inside a bank that holds a mirror to everything she’s been silently battling.
The film is a thought provoking one that would leave you asking yourself questions. Not rushing into details, I would first like for you to understand the plots in the movie, so a quick summary before I share my own thought will suffice.
Janiyah Wilkinson, a single mother with a sick daughter Aria. The movie begins in her run down room with her daughter that morning. She wakes her up to prepare her for school and also get ready for work, it was then she learnt that her teacher in front of the class spoke ill of the fact that she wasn’t paying for lunch in school. Going outside the house to go about her day her landlady reminds her of owing rent after she helped another helpless neighbour with some money and threatened she was going to meet her things outside at the end of the day. She drops her daugher off at school and head to work which she met was already jampacked with customers and had to rush to start her shift. She was later called to her daughter’s school and had to leave work but before leaving so she could go pay the $40 for her daughters lunch in school she discovered that she had been debit and her initial $47 was no longer in her account. The manager asked her to wait but she rushed to the school where she found out that her daughter was going to be taken away from her because she wasn’t taking proper care of her as reported by the school authority.
Driving back to work to get her cheque because it was pay day she almost caused an accident unknown to her the man was a police officer and he ran her out of the road and threatened to kill her and had his colleague impound her car. She then had to walk to work, getting to work, her boss fired her and refused to give her the cheque before she went home. On getting home her things had been thrown outside and it was raining heavily. She went back to work to get her cheque and then her boss was robbed but an alteration started that led to her shooting one of the robbers and also her boss who claimed she was the master mind of the robbery. She took her cheque from the table and went to the bank to cash it but then it turned into a bank robbery that developed into a national crisis after one of the bankers went live on her phone and to a point where the FBI got involved. For better understanding of the movie and to get the whole story in recommend you watch.
My View
The movie is an interesting watch no doubt. In today’s world we have a lot of films being released but most of them lack the source and ingredient that can provoke emotions in people.
The film depicts with much intensity an emotional twist using long silences, flashbacks, and stark dialogue to peel back the emotional armor Janiyah has worn for too long. When the film’s emotional twist lands revealing the true depth of her grief and suffering it hits with that great intensity.
At the end of the film, one this is certain, depending on your moral upbringing you will have a different perspective and take on what is and what could have been. Even in the movie after everyone knew what she had been going through, not everyone sympathized with her and that is what life is all about. Starting from the very beginning I think she wasn’t very organized when it came to doing things even in her state and it was obvious that she had overtime learnt to keep things to herself and it was eating her up.
Another aspect of the movie I will like to talk about is even though I am not currently living in the America and UK or another white country, I just feel the part that was centered on racism was not very necessary. The world is changing and even though there are still cases of racism, for such a story anything could have been the case in that the police man who ran her out of the road could have been a black man too but it just had to be a white.
The movie also spoke about police brutality and abuse of power by the armed forces and those that wear the uniform and are supposed to be protectors of life and property. The police officer that ran her out of the road threatened her life “I will find a legal way to fu*king blow your brains out” he said. That right there speaks about abuse of power and wickedness of humans.
The only person that gave her a chance were the women in the movie, Officer Raymond, the Bank manager and some others, it was as if the men where blind to her suffering and could not relate and I don’t think that’s really the case in the real world. Everyone that were also bad to her following the coming of the FBI were all whites too. I honestly feel the movie is not situated in the 1900s and so should not reflect such bias judgement.
A lot of things to talk about but not to bore my readers with too much information I think its worth noting that the casting was well done and each of them played their parts to a good degree, the psychological play that forces you to think about life most especially for people who can relate to some of the challenges, the conciseness of the movie is worth the watch time.
Although the majority of our social media posts cover international entertainment, Streamdorm is Nigerian-owned. So I want to say a big thank you to you for subscribing; you have no idea how big your impact is in realizing our dream.
What’s happening in Hollywood?
The industry we all love, the industry which, till this day, colonizes cultures. It’s sad to see what’s happening, and it seems like it is eating itself. What’s happening?
For years, Hollywood has always been about fostering the ideas of creatives, creating movies and products that have helped shape American culture. Star Trek, Star Wars, Rocky, The Exorcist, Rambo, Top Gun, E.T., Coming To America, and so on are part of a long list of movies that have been exported outside of America and now have a history of many, including myself, here in Nigeria. But what could be wrong?
These past years, our screens have been filled with adaptations, sequels, remakes and reboots, while that may be good, the obvious elephant in the room will be the re-messaging. Snow White, Ghostbusters, Lightyear, The Little Mermaid, The Last of US: Part II, Batwoman are a few of many movies and shows where the original audience loved was changed to serve a purpose. Trust me when I say it’s not because of the hate of a particular gender or inclusivity. Into The Spider-verse, Barbie, Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman, Crazy Rich Asians, and Get Out are great examples that, if done right, your movies can do well at the box office.
Hollywood, in its attempt to play all sides or, in most cases, play social justice hero, ends up mocking its audience. Recently, we had the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, which to this day, is facing backlash.
Before you go on thinking this newsletter issue is about politics, it’s not. This year we had Snow White, Captain America 4, and Thunderbolts from Disney, none became a box office success, and on the other hand, we had Companion, Mickey 17, The Alto Knights and The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie from Warner Bros – all flopped. What some may consider woke movies, Sinners and A Minecraft Movie, and Ne Zha 2, became a success. The original being Sinners.
The truth is that a lot of factors play into a box office success, and it all falls down to the answer to this question: “Will the general audience spend their hard-earned money to see this movie?”
As a creative and an industry executive, it is your duty to ask the tough questions. As much as art should be made without constraint, we should also consider the normies. You don’t want to end up as the villain thinking you were the hero all this time.
So, how does this affect Nollywood?
While we’re yet to spend 70 million dollars making movies, it is important to watch and learn. Hollywood once thought they were untouchable, but as time went on, politics and the economy became a reality for them. In Nigeria, we understand the economy. Even consuming this content is expensive; now imagine producing it.
The quality of the art should always be a priority, and the messaging should always reflect what the majority are thinking. While you may think you know what’s right from wrong, you may be blatantly wrong.
At the end of the day, it is important to point out you DO NOT, for any reason, let people crush you for sharing what you think is right. While it may be labelled “woke” or “fascist,” you have to use your voice to speak, and to be honest, we live in a time where the meaning of those words is lost.
South African pop queen Tyla is at it, but this time it’s a top record: only one person has broken it—the first African solo artist with a song to surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify.
As of February 2025, Tyla became the first solo artist with a song (“Water”) to surpass one billion streams on Spotify. The song, which was released on July 28, 2023, took the entire world to the borders of South Africa.
The song peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Hot R&B Songs charts. It also spent 15 weeks on the Billboard 200, peaking at #24.
‘Water’ won many international awards, including MTV VMAs, MTV EMA, BET, and Grammys.
Another Billion club member achieved this but with the help of Selena Gomez on “Calm Down Remix.”
It’s been 20 years since Aang was discovered, the destined Avatar who was tasked to unite the four nations. Seven years later, it was Korra’s story, and now, 13 years later, that universe, which raised a generation, is getting another addition.
Nickelodeon has called on the original creators, Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, to release another chapter to the Avatar Universe.
The new show will be ‘Avatar: Seven Havens,‘ a 26-episode, 2D animation currently in the works. Each season (aka books in Avatar) will be 13 episodes each produced by Avatar Studios. Other information like casting and premiere date is yet to be revealed.
“When we created the original series, we never imagined we’d still be expanding the world decades later,” DiMartino and Konietzko said in a joint statement. “This new incarnation of the Avatarverse is full of fantasy, mystery, and a whole new cast of amazing characters. Get ready to take another epic and emotional adventure!”
The Netflix live-action show ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ is expected to run for two more seasons. The show’s original creators, DiMartino and Konietzko, were originally expected to develop the show for Netflix, but that fell through due to creative differences.
In 2021, they returned to Nickelodeon to run Avatar Studios as co-chief creative officers and help build Avatarverse across film and TV.
A feature film for TheLast Airbender focusing on the original series’ main character, Aang, is set for release in January 2026, starring Dave Bautista, Dionne Quan, Jessica Matten, Román Zaragoza, and Eric Nam.
There has been a lot of clamouring and anticipation about the new release of MCU’s new superhero movie “Fantastic Four: First Step with its official trailer release on 4th of February and coming to theaters on July 25. Lets’ take a look at the evolution of the superhero movie and its rerun over the years.
Marvel’s First Family, the Fantastic Four, has had a fascinating yet turbulent history in Hollywood. Spanning two decades, multiple reruns, and now an eagerly anticipated entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), their journey reflects both the challenges and success of adapting iconic comic book characters for the big screen. From their 2005 debut to the highly anticipated 2025 MCU rerun.
2005: The Fantastic Four
The Fantastic Four made their blockbuster debut in 2005 with 20th Century Fox’s Fantastic Four, directed by Tim Story. The film introduced audiences to IoanGruffudd as Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic), Jessica Alba as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Chris Evans as Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Michael Chiklis as Ben Grimm (The Thing).
While the movie didn’t receive widespread critical acclaim, it was a commercial success, grossing around $330 million globally. The film’s lighter tone and focus on family dynamics resonated with many viewers, though it faced criticism for its simplistic plot and underdeveloped villain, Doctor Doom. This success led to a sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007), which expanded the universe by introducing the enigmatic Silver Surfer.
However, despite its intriguing cosmic elements, the sequel received low reviews and struggled to elevate the franchise’s status. Plans for a third film and a potential Silver Surfer spin-off were eventually abandoned due to declining interest and box office performance.
2015: Fantastic Four
In 2015, Fox attempted to reinvent the franchise with a darker, more grounded reboot simply titled Fantastic Four, directed by Josh Trank. This version featured a younger cast, including Miles Teller as Reed Richards, Kate Mara as Sue Storm, Michael B. Jordan as Johnny Storm, and Jamie Bell as Ben Grimm.
The film shifted significantly from its predecessors, aiming for a more serious, science-fiction-driven narrative. Unfortunately, this new direction failed to resonate with both critics and audiences. Faced by behind-the-scenes issues, reshoots, and creative conflicts, the film struggled to find its identity.
It was criticized for its poor storytelling, uneven pacing, and underwhelming character development. Despite the promising cast, Fantastic Four (2015) became a box office disappointment, further discouraging any plans for any sequels in the future.
2025: The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The future of the Fantastic Four took a dramatic turn when Disney acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019, bringing the beloved characters under the Marvel Studios umbrella. This development opened the door for the team to finally join the MCU, sparking excitement among fans eager to see them interact with iconic heroes like Spider-Man, Doctor Strange, and the Avengers.
Marvel Studios officially announced the MCU’s Fantastic Four rerun, now titled “Fantastic Four: First Steps,” set for release on July 25, 2025. Directed by Matt Shakman, known for his work on “WandaVision”, the film promises a new take on the superhero team, blending their classic roots with the expansive MCU narrative.
The new cast includes:
Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic)
Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman)
Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (Human Torch)
Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (The Thing)
Unlike previous adaptations, First Steps will transport the Fantastic Four into a retro-futuristic version of the 1960s, a creative decision that aims to honour the era in which the characters were originally introduced in the comics. This unique setting, combined with Marvel’s signature storytelling style, is expected to breathe new life into the franchise.
The Fantastic Four’s cinematic journey has been anything but straightforward. From the average, family-friendly vibes of the 2005 films to the darker, experimental tone of the 2015 reboot, and now their long-awaited arrival in the MCU, the team has undergone numerous transformations in pursuit of capturing the magic that made them comic book legends.
As Marvel Studios prepares to introduce The Fantastic Four: First Steps to the world, hopes are high that this version will finally deliver the definitive portrayal fans have been waiting for since 2005.
Blending rich character development, cosmic adventures, and connections to the broader MCU, the 2025 film represents not just another reboot, but a new beginning for Marvel’s First Family.
It’s Industry’s biggest night! The 2025 Grammys is now in our footsteps and we couldn’t be more proud. The 67th Academy Awards is currently held at the Crypto.comArena, Los Angeles.
The host tonight is South African comedian, Trevor Noah for the consecutive fifth time. Beyoncé (who leads with 11 nods), Charli xcx, Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter, ChappellRoan and Shaboozey lead the nomination nods.
Beyoncé at the Grammys in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2025. Kevin Winter/Getty
Some of Nigeria’s biggest stars, including Tems, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, and Asake, will represent the country on the global stage, here’s the full nominees:
Record of the Year The Beatles – Now and Then Beyoncé – Texas Hold ’Em Billie Eilish – Birds of a Feather Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! Charli XCX – 360 Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us – WINNER Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone – Fortnight
Album of the Year André 3000 – New Blue Sun Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter – WINNER Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and Soft Chappell Roan – The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess Charli XCX – Brat Jacob Collier – Djesse Vol. 4 Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department
Song of the Year Beyoncé – Texas Hold ’Em Billie Eilish – Birds of a Feather Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us – WINNER Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – Die With a Smile Sabrina Carpenter – Please Please Please Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy) Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone – Fortnight
Best New Artist Benson Boone Doechii Chappell Roan – WINNER Khruangbin Raye Sabrina Carpenter Shaboozey Teddy Swims
Producer of the Year, Non-Classical Alissia Daniel Nigro – WINNER Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II Ian Fitchuk Mustard
Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical Amy Allen – WINNER Edgar Barrera Jessi Alexander Jessie Jo Dillon Raye
Best Pop Solo Performance Beyoncé – Bodyguard Billie Eilish – Birds of a Feather Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! Charli XCX – Apple Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso – WINNER
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance Ariana Grande, Brandy & Monica – The Boy Is Mine – Remix Beyoncé Featuring Post Malone – Levii’s Jeans Charli XCX & Billie Eilish – Guess Featuring Billie Eilish Gracie Abrams Featuring Taylor Swift – Us. Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – Die With a Smile – WINNER
Best Pop Vocal Album Ariana Grande – Eternal Sunshine Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and Soft Chappell Roan – The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet – WINNER Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department
Best Dance/Electronic Recording Disclosure – She’s Gone, Dance On Four Tet – Loved Fred Again.. & Baby Keem – Leavemealone Justice & Tame Impala – Neverender – WINNER Kaytranada Featuring Childish Gambino – Witchy
Best Dance Pop Recording Ariana Grande – Yes, And? Billie Eilish – L’Amour de Ma Vie [Over Now Extended Edit] Charli XCX – Von Dutch – WINNER Madison Beer – Make You Mine Troye Sivan – Got Me Started
Best Dance/Electronic Music Album Charli XCX – Brat – WINNER Four Tet – Three Justice – Hyperdrama Kaytranada – Timeless Zedd – Telos
Best Remixed Recording Charli XCX – Von Dutch A. G. Cook Remix Featuring Addison Rae Doechii & Kaytranada Featuring JT – Alter Ego (Kaytranada Remix) Julian Marley & Antaeus – Jah Sees Them (Amapiano Remix) Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso (Mark Ronson x FNZ Working Late Remix) – WINNER Shaboozey & David Guetta – A Bar Song (Tipsy) (Remix)
Best Rock Performance The Beatles – Now and Then – WINNER The Black Keys – Beautiful People (Stay High) Green Day – The American Dream Is Killing Me Idles – Gift Horse Pearl Jam – Dark Matter St. Vincent – Broken Man
Best Metal Performance Gojira, Marina Viotti & Victor le Masne – Mea Culpa (Ah! Ça ira!) – WINNER Judas Priest – Crown of Horns Knocked Loose Featuring Poppy – Suffocate Metallica – Screaming Suicide Spiritbox – Cellar Door
Best Rock Song The Black Keys – Beautiful People (Stay High) Green Day – Dilemma Idles – Gift Horse Pearl Jam – Dark Matter St. Vincent – Broken Man – WINNER
Best Rock Album The Black Crowes – Happiness Bastards Fontaines D.C. – Romance Green Day – Saviors Idles – Tangk Jack White – No Name Pearl Jam – Dark Matter The Rolling Stones – Hackney Diamonds – WINNER
Best Alternative Music Performance Cage the Elephant – Neon Pill Fontaines D.C. – Starburster Kim Gordon – Bye Bye Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Song of the Lake St. Vincent – Flea – WINNER
Best Alternative Music Album Brittany Howard – What Now Clairo – Charm Kim Gordon – The Collective Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Wild God St. Vincent – All Born Screaming – WINNER
Best R&B Performance Chris Brown – Residuals Coco Jones – Here We Go (Uh Oh) Jhené Aiko – Guidance Muni Long – Made for Me (Live on BET) – WINNER SZA – Saturn
Best Traditional R&B Performance Kenyon Dixon – Can I Have This Groove Lalah Hathaway Featuring Michael McDonald – No Lie Lucky Daye – That’s You – WINNER Marsha Ambrosius – Wet Muni Long – Make Me Forget
Best R&B Song Coco Jones – Here We Go (Uh Oh) Kehlani – After Hours Muni Long – Ruined Me SZA – Saturn – WINNER Tems – Burning
Best Progressive R&B Album Avery Sunshine – So Glad to Know You – WINNER[TIE] Childish Gambino – Bando Stone and the New World Durand Bernarr – En Route Kehlani – Crash NxWorries – Why Lawd? – WINNER [TIE]
Best R&B Album Chris Brown – 11:11 (Deluxe) – WINNER Lalah Hathaway – Vantablack Lucky Daye – Algorithm Muni Long – Revenge Usher – Coming Home
Best Rap Performance Cardi B – Enough (Miami) Common & Pete Rock Featuring Posdnuos – When the Sun Shines Again Doechii – Nissan Altima Eminem – Houdini Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar – Like That Glorilla – Yeah Glo! Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us – WINNER
Best Melodic Rap Performance Beyoncé, Linda Martell & Shaboozey – Spaghettii Future, Metro Boomin & The Weeknd – We Still Don’t Trust You Jordan Adetunji Featuring Kehlani – Kehlani (Remix) Latto – Big Mama Rapsody Featuring Erykah Badu – 3:AM – WINNER
Best Rap Song Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar – Like That Glorilla – Yeah Glo! Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us – WINNER Rapsody & Hit-Boy – Asteroids ¥$, Kanye West, Ty Dolla $ign & Rich the Kid Featuring Playboi Carti – Carnival
Best Rap Album Common & Pete Rock – The Auditorium Vol. 1 Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal – WINNER Eminem – The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce) Future & Metro Boomin – We Don’t Trust You J. Cole – Might Delete Later
Best Spoken Word Poetry Album Malik Yusef – Good M.U.S.I.C. Universe Sonic Sinema Episode 1: In the Beginning Was the Word Omari Hardwick – Concrete & Whiskey Act II Part 1: A Bourbon 30 Series Queen Sheba – Civil Writes: The South Got Something to Say Skillz – The Seven Number Ones Tank and the Bangas – The Heart, the Mind, the Soul – WINNER
Best Jazz Performance The Baylor Project – Walk With Me, Lord (Sound | Spirit) Chick Corea & Béla Fleck – Juno Dan Pugach & Nicole Zuraitis Featuring Troy Roberts – Little Fears Lakecia Benjamin Featuring Randy Brecker, Jeff “Tain” Watts & John Scofield – Phoenix Reimagined (Live) Samara Joy Featuring Sullivan Fortner – Twinkle Twinkle Little Me – WINNER
Best Jazz Vocal Album Catherine Russell & Sean Mason – My Ideal Christie Dashiell – Journey in Black Kurt Elling & Sullivan Fortner – Wildflowers Vol. 1 Milton Nascimento & Esperanza Spalding – Milton + Esperanza Samara Joy – A Joyful Holiday – WINNER
Best Jazz Instrumental Album Ambrose Akinmusire – Owl Song Chick Corea & Béla Fleck – Remembrance – WINNER Kenny Barron – Beyond This Place Lakecia Benjamin – Phoenix Reimagined (Live) Sullivan Fortner – Solo Game
Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra – And So It Goes Dan Pugach – Bianca Reimagined – WINNER John Beasley Featuring Frankfurt Radio Big Band – Returning to Forever Miguel Zenón – Golden City Orrin Evans & The Captain Black Big Band – Walk a Mile in My Shoe
Best Latin Jazz Album Donald Vega Featuring Lewis Nash, John Patitucci & Luisito Quintero- As I Travel Eliane Elias – Time and Again Hamilton de Holanda & Gonzalo Rubalcaba – Collab Horacio ‘El Negro’ Hernandez, John Beasley & Jose Gola – El Trio: Live in Italy Michel Camilo & Tomatito – Spain Forever Again Zaccai Curtis – Cubop Lives! – WINNER
Best Alternative Jazz Album Arooj Aftab – Night Reign André 3000 – New Blue Sun Keyon Harrold – Foreverland Meshell Ndegeocello – No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin – WINNER Robert Glasper – Code Derivation
Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album Aaron Lazar – Impossible Dream Cyrille Aimée – À Fleur de Peau Gregory Porter – Christmas Wish Lake Street Dive – Good Together Norah Jones – Visions – WINNER
Best Contemporary Instrumental Album Béla Fleck – Rhapsody in Blue Bill Frisell – Orchestras (Live) Julian Lage – Speak to Me Mark Guiliana – Mark Taylor Eigsti – Plot Armor – WINNER
Best Musical Theater Album Hell’s Kitchen – WINNER Merrily We Roll Along The Notebook The Outsiders Suffs The Wiz
Best Country Solo Performance Beyoncé – 16 Carriages Chris Stapleton – It Takes a Woman – WINNER Jelly Roll – I Am Not Okay Kacey Musgraves – The Architect Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy)
Best Country Duo/Group Performance Beyoncé & Miley Cyrus – II Most Wanted – WINNER Brothers Osborne – Break Mine Dan + Shay – Bigger Houses Kelsea Ballerini & Noah Kahan – Cowboys Cry Too Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen – I Had Some Help
Best Country Song Beyoncé – Texas Hold ’Em Jelly Roll – I Am Not Okay Kacey Musgraves – The Architect – WINNER Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen – I Had Some Help Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy)
Best Country Album Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter – WINNER Chris Stapleton – Higher Kacey Musgraves – Deeper Well Lainey Wilson – Whirlwind Post Malone – F-1 Trillion
Best American Roots Performance The Fabulous Thunderbirds Featuring Bonnie Raitt, Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal & Mick Fleetwood – Nothing in Rambling Rhiannon Giddens – The Ballad of Sally Anne Shemekia Copeland – Blame It on Eve Sierra Ferrell – Lighthouse – WINNER
Best Americana Performance Beyoncé – Ya Ya Gillian Welch & David Rawlings – Empty Trainload of Sky Madi Diaz & Kacey Musgraves – Don’t Do Me Good Madison Cunningham – Subtitles Sarah Jarosz – Runaway Train Sierra Ferrell – American Dreaming – WINNER
Best American Roots Song Aoife O’Donovan – All My Friends Iron & Wine & Fiona Apple – All in Good Time Mark Knopfler – Ahead of the Game Shemekia Copeland – Blame It on Eve Sierra Ferrell – American Dreaming – WINNER
Best Americana Album Charley Crockett – $10 Cowboy Maggie Rose – No One Gets Out Alive Sarah Jarosz – Polaroid Lovers Sierra Ferrell – Trail of Flowers – WINNER T Bone Burnett – The Other Side Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood
Best Bluegrass Album Billy Strings – Live Vol. 1 – WINNER Bronwyn Keith-Hynes – I Built a World Dan Tyminski – Dan Tyminski: Live From the Ryman The Del McCoury Band – Songs of Love and Life Sister Sadie – No Fear Tony Trischka – Earl Jam
Best Traditional Blues Album Cedric Burnside – Hill Country Love The Fabulous Thunderbirds – Struck Down Little Feat – Sam’s Place Sue Foley – One Guitar Woman Taj Mahal – Swingin’: Live at the Church in Tulsa – WINNER
Best Contemporary Blues Album Antonio Vergara – The Fury Joe Bonamassa – Blues Deluxe Vol. 2 Ruthie Foster – Mileage – WINNER Shemekia Copeland – Blame It on Eve Steve Cropper & The Midnight Hour – Friendlytown
Best Folk Album Adrianne Lenker – Bright Future American Patchwork Quartet – American Patchwork Quartet Aoife O’Donovan – All My Friends Gillian Welch & David Rawlings – Woodland – WINNER Madi Diaz – Weird Faith
Best Regional Roots Music Album Big Chief Monk Featuring J’wan Boudreaux – Live at the 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Kalani Pe’a – Kuini – WINNER New Breed Brass Band Featuring Trombone Shorty – Live at the 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival The Rumble – Stories From the Battlefield Sean Ardoin & Kreole Rock and Soul – 25 Back to My Roots
Best Gospel Performance/Song Doe – Holy Hands Melvin Crispell III – Yesterday Ricky Dillard – Hold On (Live) Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell & Israel Houghton Featuring Jonathan McReynolds & Jekalyn Carr – One Hallelujah – WINNER Yolanda Adams – Church Doors
Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song Bethel Music, Jenn Johnson Featuring CeCe Winans – Holy Forever (Live) CeCe Winans – That’s My King – WINNER Elevation Worship Featuring Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore – Praise Honor & Glory & Disciple – Firm Foundation (He Won’t) Jwlkrs Worship & Maverick City Music Featuring Chandler Moore – In the Name of Jesus Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore Featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard – In the Room
Best Gospel Album CeCe Winans – More Than This – WINNER Karen Clark Sheard – Still Karen Kirk Franklin – Father’s Day Melvin Crispell III – Covered Vol. 1 Ricky Dillard – Choirmaster II (Live)
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album Brandon Lake – Coat of Many Colors Doe – Heart of a Human – WINNER Elevation Worship – When Wind Meets Fire Forrest Frank – Child of God Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine – The Maverick Way Complete
Best Roots Gospel Album Authentic Unlimited – The Gospel Sessions, Vol. 2 Cory Henry – Church – WINNER The Harlem Gospel Travelers – Rhapsody Mark D. Conklin – The Gospel According to Mark The Nelons – Loving You
Best Latin Pop Album Anitta – Funk Generation Kali Uchis – Orquídeas Kany García – García Luis Fonsi – El Viaje Shakira – Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran – WINNER
Best Música Urbana Album Bad Bunny – Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana Feid – Ferxxocalipsis J Balvin – Rayo Residente – Las Letras Ya No Importan – WINNER Young Miko – Att.
Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album Cimafunk – Pa’ Tu Cuerpa El David Aguilar – Compita del Destino Mon Laferte – Autopoiética Nathy Peluso – Grasa Rawayana – ¿Quién Trae las Cornetas? – WINNER
Best Música Mexicana Album (Including Tejano) Carín León – Boca Chueca, Vol. 1 – WINNER Chiquis – Diamantes Jessi Uribe – De Lejitos Peso Pluma – Éxodo
Best Tropical Latin Album Juan Luis Guerra 4.40 – Radio Güira Kiki Valera – Vacilón Santiaguero Marc Anthony – Muevense Sheila E. – Bailar Tony Succar & Mimy Succar – Alma, Corazón y Salsa (Live at Gran Teatro Nacional) – WINNER
Best Global Music Performance Angélique Kidjo & Soweto Gospel Choir – Sunlight to My Soul Arooj Aftab – Raat Ki Rani Jacob Collier Featuring Anoushka Shankar & Varijashree Venugopal – A Rock Somewhere Masa Takumi Featuring Ron Korb, Noshir Mody & Dale Edward Chung – Kashira Rocky Dawuni – Rise Sheila E. Featuring Gloria Estefan & Mimy Succar – Bemba Colorá – WINNER
Best African Music Performance Asake & Wizkid – MMS Burna Boy – Higher Chris Brown Featuring Davido & Lojay – Sensational Tems – Love Me JeJe – WINNER Yemi Alade – Tomorrow
Best Global Music Album Antonio Rey – Historias de un Flamenco Ciro Hurtado – Paisajes Matt B & Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – Alkebulan II – WINNER Rema – Heis Tems – Born in the Wild
Best Reggae Album Collie Buddz – Take It Easy Shenseea – Never Gets Late Here Various Artists – Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By the Film (Deluxe) – WINNER Vybz Kartel – Party With Me The Wailers – Evolution
Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album Anoushka Shankar – Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn Chris Redding – Visions of Sounds De Luxe Radhika Vekaria – Warriors of Light Ricky Kej – Break of Dawn Ryuichi Sakamoto – Opus Wouter Kellerman, Éru Matsumoto & Chandrika Tandon – Triveni – WINNER
Best Children’s Music Album Divinity Roxx & Divi Roxx Kids – World Wide Playdate John Legend – My Favorite Dream Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band – ¡Brillo, Brillo! – WINNER Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats – Creciendo Rock for Children – Solid Rock Revival
Best Comedy Album Dave Chappelle – The Dreamer – WINNER Jim Gaffigan – The Prisoner Nikki Glaser – Someday You’ll Die Ricky Gervais – Armageddon Trevor Noah – Where Was I
Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording Barbra Streisand – My Name Is Barbra Dolly Parton – Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones George Clinton – …And Your Ass Will Follow Jimmy Carter – Last Sundays in Plains: A Centennial Celebration – WINNER Various Artists – All You Need Is Love: The Beatles in Their Own Words
Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media London Symphony Orchestra, Yannick Nézet-Séguin & Bradley Cooper – Maestro: Music by Leonard Bernstein – WINNER Various Artists – The Color Purple Various Artists – Deadpool & Wolverine Various Artists – Saltburn Various Artists – Twisters: The Album
Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media (Includes Film and Television) Kris Bowers – The Color Purple Hans Zimmer – Dune: Part Two – WINNER Laura Karpman – American Fiction Nick Chuba, Atticus Ross & Leopold Ross – Shōgun Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross – Challengers
Best Score Soundtrack for Video Games and Other Interactive Media Bear McCreary – God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla John Paesano – Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Pinar Toprak – Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Wilbert Roget II – Star Wars Outlaws Winifred Phillips – Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord – WINNER
Best Song Written for Visual Media Barbra Streisand – Love Will Survive (From The Tattooist of Auschwitz) Jon Batiste – It Never Went Away (From the Netflix Documentary “American Symphony”) – WINNER Luke Combs – Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma (From Twisters: The Album) *NSync & Justin Timberlake – Better Place (From Trolls Band Together) Olivia Rodrigo – Can’t Catch Me Now (From The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes)
Best Music Video A$AP Rocky – Tailor Swif Charli XCX – 360 Eminem – Houdini Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us – WINNER Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone – Fortnight
Best Music Film Jon Batiste – American Symphony – WINNER June Carter Cash – June Run-DMC – Kings From Queens Steven Van Zandt – Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple Various Artists – The Greatest Night in Pop
Best Recording Package The Avett Brothers – The Avett Brothers Charli XCX – Brat – WINNER iWhoiWhoo – Pregnancy, Breakdown, and Disease Kate Bush – Hounds of Love (Baskerville Edition) The Muddy Basin Ramblers – Jug Band Millionaire Post Malone – F-1 Trillion William Clark Green – Baker Hotel
Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package Alpha Wolf – Half Living Things John Lennon – Mind Games – WINNER Kate Bush – Hounds of Love (The Boxes of Lost at Sea) Nirvana – In Utero Unsuk Chin & Berliner Philharmoniker – Unsuk Chin 90 Day Men – We Blame Chicago
Best Album Notes Alice Coltrane – The Carnegie Hall Concert (Live) Ford Dabney’s Syncopated Orchestras – After Midnight John Culshaw – John Culshaw – The Art of the Producer – The Early Years 1948-55 King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band & Various Artists – Centennial – WINNER Various Artists – SONtrack Original de la Película “Al Son de Beno”
Best Historical Album King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band & Various Artists – Centennial – WINNER Paul Robeson – Paul Robeson – Voice of Freedom: His Complete Columbia, RCA, HMV, and Victor Recordings Pepe de Lucía & Paco de Lucía – Pepito y Paquito Prince & the New Power Generation – Diamonds and Pearls (Super Deluxe Edition) Rodgers & Hammerstein & Julie Andrews – The Sound of Music (Original Soundtrack Recording) (Super Deluxe Edition)
Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical Charlotte Day Wilson – Cyan Blue Kacey Musgraves – Deeper Well Lucky Daye – Algorithm Peter Gabriel – I/O – WINNER Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet Willow – Empathogen
Best Engineered Album, Classical Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel & María Dueñas – Gabriela Ortiz: Revolución Diamantina Los Angeles Philharmonic, John Adams & Los Angeles Master Chorale – John Adams: Girls of the Golden West Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra & Manfred Honeck – Bruckner: Symphony No. 7 – Bates: Resurrexit (Live) – WINNER Skylark Vocal Ensemble & Matthew Guard – Clear Voices in the Dark Timo Andres, Andrew Cyr & Metropolis Ensemble – Timo Andres: The Blind Banister
Producer of the Year, Classical Christoph Franke Dirk Sobotka Dmitriy Lipay Elaine Martone – WINNER Erica Brenner Morten Lindberg
Best Immersive Audio Album Ensemble 96, Current Saxophone Quartet & Nina T. Karlsen – Pax Peter Gabriel – I/O (In-Side Mix) – WINNER Ray Charles & Various Artists – Genius Loves Company Roxy Music – Avalon Trondheim Symphony Orchestra & Nick Davies – Henning Sommerro: Borders
Best Instrumental Composition Akropolis Reed Quintet, Pascal Le Boeuf & Christian Euman – Strands – WINNER André 3000 – I Swear, I Really Wanted to Make a “Rap” Album but This Is Literally the Way the Wind Blew Me This Time Chick Corea & Béla Fleck – Remembrance Christopher Zuar Orchestra – Communion Shelly Berg – At Last
Jaden Smith and Willow Smith at The 67th Annual Grammy Awards Sunday.Francis Specker / CBS
Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella Béla Fleck – Rhapsody in Blue(Grass) Henry Mancini & Snarky Puppy – Baby Elephant Walk (Encore) Jacob Collier Featuring John Legend & Tori Kelly – Bridge Over Troubled Water – WINNER Säje – Silent Night Scott Hoying Featuring Säje & Tonality – Rose Without the Thorns
Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals Cody Fry Featuring Sleeping at Last – The Sound of Silence John Legend – Always Come Back Säje Featuring Regina Carter – Alma – WINNER Willow – Big Feelings The 8-Bit Big Band Featuring Jonah Nilsson & Button Masher – Last Surprise (From “Persona 5”)
Best Orchestral Performance Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra & JoAnn Falletta – Kodály: Háry János Suite, Nyári este & Symphony in C Major Esa-Pekka Salonen & San Francisco Symphony – Stravinsky: The Firebird Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel & María Dueñas – Gabriela Ortiz: Revolución Diamantina – WINNER ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra & Marin Alsop – John Adams: City Noir, Fearful Symmetries & Lola Montez Does the Spider Dance Susanna Mälkki & Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra – Sibelius: Karelia Suite, Rakastava & Lemminkäinen
Best Opera Recording Los Angeles Philharmonic, John Adams & Los Angeles Master Chorale – John Adams: Girls of the Golden West Lyric Opera of Kansas City & Gerard Schwarz – Moravec: The Shining The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra & The Metropolitan Opera Chorus – Catán: Florencia en el Amazonas The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra & The Metropolitan Opera Chorus – Puts: The Hours San Francisco Symphony Chorus & San Francisco Symphony – Saariaho: Adriana Mater – WINNER
Best Choral Performance Apollo’s Fire & Jeannette Sorrell – Handel: Israel in Egypt, HWV 54 The Choir of Trinity Wall Street, Artefact Ensemble & Novus NY – Sheehan: Akathist The Crossing, Donald Nally & Dan Schwartz – Ochre – WINNER Skylark Vocal Ensemble & Matthew Guard – Clear Voices in the Dark True Concord Voices & Orchestra, Jeffrey Biegel & Eric Holtan – A Dream So Bright: Choral Music of Jake Runestad
Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance Caroline Shaw & Sō Percussion – Rectangles and Circumstance – WINNER JACK Quartet – John Luther Adams: Waves & Particles Lorelei Ensemble & Christopher Cerrone – Christopher Cerrone: Beaufort Scales Miró Quartet – Home Yo-Yo Ma, Leonidas Kavakos & Emanuel Ax – Beethoven for Three: Symphony No. 4 and Op. 97 “Archduke”
Best Classical Instrumental Solo Andy Akiho – Akiho: Longing Curtis J Stewart, James Blachly & Experiential Orchestra – Perry: Concerto for Violin and Orchestra Mak Grgić & Ensemble Dissonance – Entourer Seth Parker Woods – Eastman The Holy Presence of Joan d’Arc Víkingur Ólafsson – J. S. Bach: Goldberg Variations – WINNER
Best Classical Solo Vocal Album Fotina Naumenko – Bespoke Songs Joyce DiDonato, Il Pomo d’Oro & Maxim Emelyanychev – Wagner: Wesendonck Lieder Karen Slack & Michelle Cann – Beyond the Years – WINNER Nicholas Phan, Farayi Malek & Palaver Strings – A Change Is Gonna Come Will Liverman & Jonathan King – Show Me the Way
Best Classical Compendium Amy Porter, Nikki Chooi, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra & JoAnn Falletta – Lukas Foss: Symphony No. 1 & Renaissance Concerto Andy Akiho & Imani Winds – BeLonging Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra & Michael Shapiro – Mythologies II Experiential Orchestra, James Blachly & Curtis J Stewart – American Counterpoints Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel & María Dueñas – Gabriela Ortiz: Revolución Diamantina – WINNER
Best Contemporary Classical Composition Andrea Casarrubios – Casarrubios: Seven for Solo Cello Decoda – Coleman: Revelry Esa-Pekka Salonen, Fleur Barron, Nicholas Phan, Christopher Purves, Axelle Fanyo & San Francisco Symphony Chorus & Orchestra – Saariaho: Adriana Mater Eighth Blackbird – Lang: Composition as Explanation Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel & Los Angeles Master Chorale – Ortiz: Revolución Diamantina – WINNER
The Super Bowl is the annual championship game of the National Football League (NFL), pitting the best teams from the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC) against each other. It’s the culmination of a thrilling playoff season, with the winner taking home the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. At the games some top anticipated movies will release their trailers. List of movie trailers to be released at the Super Bowl are:
Captain America: Brave New World
The Anthony Mackie and Harrison Ford-led blockbuster is likely to get it’s trailer released on 9th, considering its release date is just five days after the Super Bowl.
Captain America: Brave New World is an upcoming American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Sam Wilson, aka Captain America. The movie is directed by Julius Onah and written by Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson.
The film takes place after the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series and follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as he navigates his new role as Captain America. The story explores the challenges Sam faces as a Black man wielding the shield and the weight of responsibility that comes with it.
Harrison Ford joins the cast as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a character with a complex history in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie promises to delve into themes of identity, power, and what it means to be a hero.
Jurassic World Rebirth
Universal Pictures is reportedly planning to offer a first look at the movie during the game on February 9th.
Jurassic World Rebirth is an upcoming American science fiction adventure film directed by Colin Trevorrow and written by Trevorrow and Emily Carmichael. The movie marks the sixth installment in the Jurassic Park franchise and serves as a sequel to Jurassic World Dominion.
The story takes place four years after the events of the previous film and follows a new generation of characters as they navigate a world where dinosaurs and humans coexist. The movie promises to explore the consequences of playing with nature and the ethics of genetic engineering.
With a talented cast, including Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Laura Dern, Jurassic World Rebirth promises to deliver an epic and thrilling adventure that will take audiences on a journey back to the world of Jurassic Park.
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
A new teaser for the Tom Cruise-starrer is expected on February 9th at the game, especially after the commercial failure of its predecessor.
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is an upcoming American action spy film directed by Christopher McQuarrie and written by McQuarrie and Erik Jendresen.
The movie marks the eighth installment in the Mission: Impossible franchise and promises to be the most epic and action-packed chapter yet. Tom Cruise reprises his role as Ethan Hunt, who must face off against his most formidable foe yet: a rogue agent with a personal vendetta against him.
The film promises to deliver heart-stopping stunts, intricate plot twists, and high-octane action sequences, as Ethan Hunt and his team navigate a complex web of espionage and deception. With Cruise performing many of his own stunts and a talented supporting cast, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is shaping up to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Although not confirmed, there’s a possibility that the first official teaser for the Marvel movie might drop during the Super Bowl.
Fantastic Four: First Steps is an upcoming American superhero film directed by WandaVision’s Matt Shakman and written by Jeff Kaplan and Ian Springer. The movie serves as a reboot of the Fantastic Four franchise and stars Miles Teller as Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic), Emma Stone as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Michael B. Jordan as Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Adam Driver as Ben Grimm (The Thing).
The story follows the origin of the Fantastic Four, a team of superheroes who gain their powers after being exposed to a strange energy source during a scientific expedition. As they learn to control their new abilities, they must also confront the villainous Doctor Doom, who seeks to exploit their powers for his own evil purposes.
With its talented cast, engaging storyline, and stunning visual effects, Fantastic Four: First Steps promises to be an exciting and action-packed adventure that will introduce the beloved superhero team to a new generation of fans.
Thunderbolts
Marvel Studios might showcase a new trailer for the ensemble movie, but it’s unclear if it’ll make the cut.
Thunderbolts is an upcoming American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics team of the same name. The movie is directed by Jake Schreier and written by Eric Pearson.
The film brings together a team of anti-heroes, including Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier, and Wyatt Russell’s John Walker, among others. The story follows this misfit team as they embark on a high-stakes mission that requires them to work together and confront their troubled pasts.
Thunderbolts promises to be a gritty, action-packed ride that explores the gray areas between heroism and villainy. With a talented ensemble cast and a rich comic book source material, this movie has the potential to be a game-changer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Snow White
Disney’s live-action remake might get a teaser or trailer during the game, especially after facing pre-release criticism.
Snow White is an upcoming American fantasy romance film directed by Marc Webb and written by Greta Gerwig, Erin Cressida Wilson, and Marc Platt.
The movie is a live-action reimagining of the classic Disney animated film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen. The story follows Snow White, a beautiful and kind-hearted princess who is forced to flee her kingdom when the Evil Queen becomes jealous of her beauty.
The film promises to offer a fresh take on the beloved fairy tale, with a focus on female empowerment, self-discovery, and the complexities of beauty and identity. With a talented cast and a visionary director, Snow White has the potential to become a modern classic.
Tron: Ares
Although less likely due to its October release date, Disney might still decide to give it a Super Bowl spot.
Tron: Ares is an upcoming American science fiction film directed by Joachim Rønning and written by Jared Bush. The movie serves as a sequel to Tron: Legacy and stars Jared Leto as Ares, a powerful and mysterious program.
The story takes place in a new, unexplored grid, where Ares has risen to power and threatens the very existence of the digital world. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), the son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), must once again embark on a perilous journey to stop Ares and save the grid.
With its groundbreaking visual effects, pulse-pounding action sequences, and thought-provoking themes, Tron: Ares promises to be a thrilling and immersive cinematic experience.
Lilo & Stitch
A 2-minute trailer for the live-action remake might debut during the Super Bowl.
Lilo & Stitch is an upcoming American science fiction comedy-drama film directed by Dean Fleischer Camp and written by Mike Van Waes.
The movie is a live-action/CGI reimagining of the beloved Disney animated film, starring Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Zach Galifianakis as the voice of Stitch. The story follows Lilo, a quirky and eccentric young girl who adopts a genetically engineered alien experiment named Stitch, who becomes her unlikely friend and companion.
The film promises to capture the offbeat charm and humour of the original, while exploring themes of family, identity, and acceptance. With a talented cast and a unique visual style, Lilo & Stitch has the potential to become a cult classic.
Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors is not just a movie series it’s a cultural and thematic journey that transcends the typical Nollywood offering. Released on Netflix in December 13th, 2024, this six-part series has gatheredsignificant attention for its profound exploration of tradition, personal sacrifice, leadership, and spirituality.
The series marks Adebayo’s debut as a director, and he undoubtedly proved himself as one that is a master of the craft already with this ambitious project that combines rich storytelling with exceptional cinematic craftsmanship.
Plot Overview
Set against the backdrop of the late 18th and early 19thcenturies, Seven Doors revolves around the central character, Adedunjoye (played by Femi Adebayo himself), the heir to the throne of Ilara Kingdom. Initially a humble man and content in his familial life, Adedunjoye is thrust into a role of great responsibility when circumstances force him to ascend to the throneafter he was convinced by his wife to take up the responsibility.
However, his reign is marred by a series of calamities, including a devastating famine, civil unrest, and personal loss, all of which are believed to be the result of an ancient curse tied to his ancestors’ unresolved sins.
The ancient tradition that governs the kingdom stipulates that in order to restore balance, Adedunjoyemust marry seven wives, symbolically knocking on “seven doors.” His refusal to comply with this ancestral decree sets the stage for a tense exploration of personal values, leadership responsibilities, and the impact of tradition on one’s choices.
As the series unfolds, we are drawn into Adedunjoye’sinternal struggle should he honour the customs of his kingdom or take a stand against practices that he believes are unjust and goes against his undying love for his wife which they had both promised one another that they were only both made for one another in this world.
This conflict forms the backbone of the narrative and is woven with themes of sacrifice, power, morality, and the generational burden of ancestral mistakes and misdeeds.
Critical Reception
Critics and audiences alike have applauded Seven Doors for its rich thematic depth and masterful direction. The movie series has been described by Premium Times describes as a “thematic masterpiece” that is compelling from start to finish. The careful blending of traditional Nigerian folklore with contemporary dilemmas creates a narrative that feels both timeless and timely. Adebayo’s ability to tackle complex issues surrounding leadership, destiny, and personal integrity resonates deeply with viewers, making it more than just a historical drama.
The series’ portrayal of Nigerian culture is also a standout feature. While historical fiction, Seven Doors does an exceptional job of integrating authentic Yoruba language and cultural elements. In fact, the language used throughout the series ranging from Yoruba to English to Igbo adds a layer of richness, immersing the viewer in a deeply cultural and multi-dimensional world that feels real and lived-in.
Production Design and Cinematography
Visually, Seven Doors is stunning. The production design is meticulous and well detailed, bringing the 18th and 19th centuries to life with an accuracy that enhances the storytelling. The intricate set designs, from grand royal palaces to the rustic settings of rural villages, serve to immerse the audience into the world of Ilara Kingdom. The costume design is equally impressive, with elaborate garments that reflect the wealth, power, and customs of the time.
Adebayo’s direction shines in the way he captures the emotional depth of each scene, especially in moments of internal conflict. The cinematography stands out, with sweeping shots of the kingdom’s landscapes contrasted with intimate close-ups of the characters’ faces, allowing the viewer to feel the tension, fear, and determination in their eyes. This attention to detail serves to ground the fantastical elements of the story in a believable reality.
Characters and Performances
The performances in Seven Doors are a driving force of the series. Femi Adebayo, who takes on the central role of Adedunjoye, delivers a powerful and professional portrayal of a man who is torn between duty and conscience.
His performance is deeply relatable, conveying the internal battle of a leader who must weigh the demands of his people against his personal beliefs. Adebayo skilfully navigates these emotional imbalances, adding layers of complexity to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional.
Chioma Akpotha as Queen Amaka is another standout. As a strong, compassionate, and pragmatic character, Amaka serves as both a pillar of support and a voice of reason to Adedunjoye. Portraying herself as a woman who’s got great love for her husband and family, a supporting wife and strong Igbo woman who stood by her husband till the very end despite the tragic occurrence.
Her creativeness of speaking Yoruba despite being an Igbo woman shows how rooted she had become with her husband.
Akpotha’s ability to convey deep emotional complexity with subtlety and grace makes her one of the most memorable characters in the series.
Muyiwa Ademola plays Oba Adedunjoye, bringing gravitas to the role of a king burdened by the weight of his lineage. His portrayal captures the inner turmoil of a ruler trying to balance personal happiness with the duty to his kingdom.
Aliu Gafar’s role as Esusu, the antagonist, is chilling, as he embodies a complex character whose motives are shrouded in mystery and manipulation. His performance brings an intensity to the series, creating a chilling tension between the forces of tradition and the evolving world.
Themes and Symbolism
Seven Doors is much more than a historical drama it is a deep dive into the philosophical and moral dilemmas that come with power and tradition.
The series tackles universal themes such as the consequences of one’s actions, the struggle between personal autonomy and societal obligation, and the age-old tension between progress and tradition.
The concept of the “seven doors” is symbolic, representing the trials and tribulations that Adedunjoyemust face. The doors are not just literal but also metaphorical, representing the thresholds of personal and spiritual growth. Each “door” symbolizes a challenge that the protagonist must overcome whether it be accepting his role as king, navigating the consequences of his ancestors’ actions, or coming to terms with his moral choices. This use of symbolism elevates the narrative, making it a rich text for interpretation and analysis.
The series also explores the consequences of ancestral actions. Adedunjoye’s struggle to escape the shadow of his forefathers’ sins is a potent reminder that the choices of previous generations have lasting effects. This generational burden resonates deeply with viewers, reflecting the broader societal conversations about history, legacy, and accountability.
Music and Soundtrack
The soundtrack of Seven Doors plays a crucial role in establishing the mood of the series. The music, composed to reflect the cultural and historical themes of the show, uses traditional Yoruba rhythms and instruments, further enhancing the immersive experience. The score serves as a kind of emotional guide, subtly urging the audience to feel the tension, sorrow, and hope that permeate the series.
It’s an essential part of what makes Seven Doors so compelling elevating scenes of great emotional depth and providing moments of introspection.
In the end, Seven Doors is an exemplary piece of Nigerian cinema that is made to resonate far beyond its immediate audience. With great performances, captivating direction, and a complex narrative filled with philosophical depth, Femi Adebayo has delivered a series that is as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining.
The film is an exploration of power, responsibility, and the ever-relevant battle between tradition and progress. It is a visual and emotional journey that demands to be seen and discussed.
Seven Doors stands as a milestone in Nollywood’s evolution, setting a high bar for future productions. The costuming and props used in the series and creativity sets its on high amongst many Nollywood movies released in recent times. It combines the traditional with the modern, the personal with the universal, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in cinema that challenges the boundaries of storytelling.
Rating
Without much deliberation and prejudice to recent movies it is easy for audience to give the new series a rating of 9/10.
A must watch this festive season if you are a lover of Nigeria cultural and epic movies.
