“Happy Birthday,” a gem out of the Tribeca Film Festival, has a real chance to become the first film selected by Egypt to make it onto the Oscar shortlist for Best International Feature, and IndieWire has an exclusive look at the film’s trailer.
The drama about an eight-year-old girl desperate to share a birthday wish with her best friend Nelly, in spite of circumstances that are far too complicated for children their age, serves as the directorial debut of Sarah Goher, who most recently was a consulting producer on the Marvel Cinematic Universe limited series “Moon Knight” starring Oscar Isaac and Ethan Hawke.
In addition to winning the awards for Best International Narrative Feature, Best Screenplay in an International Narrative Feature, and the Nora Ephron Award, meant to honor an exceptional female filmmaker who represents the spirit and vision of the legendary filmmaker and writer, at Tribeca this year, “Happy Birthday” is produced by Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx.
“Our hope is that more and more people will get to see this powerful film. It is masterful storytelling by a fresh new voice in film,” said Foxx and his producing partner, Datari Turner, president of Foxxhole Productions, to IndieWire via statement. Some of their company’s recent successes include dual documentaries “Number One on the Call Sheet,” Netflix blockbuster “Back in Action,” Sundance favorite “Luther: Never Too Much,” and “They Cloned Tyrone” from debut feature director Juel Taylor.
“Happy Birthday” was written by Goher and her frequent collaborator, Mohamed Diab, whose own film “Clash” was submitted by Egypt for Oscar consideration in 2016. It is also produced by Ahmed El Desouky for SkyLimit. The film is based on the director’s experience visiting her grandmother in Egypt, and tackles the subjects of class, empathy, and the fragile bonds that connect us, through the eyes of a young domestic worker in Cairo. It has also earned the film the Audience Award for the Mind the Gap section at the Mill Valley Film Festival, and the Grand Narrative Prize at the Heartland Film Festival.
While Egypt has been submitting films for consideration in the Best International Feature category since 1958, starting with Youssef Chahine’s “Cairo Station,” which is in the Criterion Collection, “Happy Birthday” would be the first film from the North African country to make the shortlist, should all go in its favor come December.
Watch the trailer for “Happy Birthday,” a IndieWire exclusive, below.
“Happy Birthday” premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival. It is currently seeking U.S. distribution.
Article By Marcus Jones
In this episode of Box Seats, we discuss all of the major trades that happened in the NFL before the deadline, and the ones that shocked us.
Plus, we also talk about all of the hottest topics in sports!
Comedians joining the show today are Damien Jones and Maurice Smith!
#NBAPlayoffs #NFL #NBA #NBATrades #comedy #comedygrind #NFLTrades #NFLRumors #NFLFreeagency #NewYorkGiants #NewYorkJets #TheClevelandBrowns #TheSteelers #TheRams #Eagles #TheChiefs #Dak #DakPrescott #DallasCowboys #Eagles #PhiladelphiaEagles #philly #Cowboys
Amazon MGM Studios is turning up the heat for its highly anticipated sequel Road House 2, adding three dynamic talents to the cast: Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor, Iko Uwais, and Hidetoshi Nishijima. The trio joins returning star Jake Gyllenhaal, who reprises his role as ex-UFC fighter–turned–barroom bouncer Dalton, in what promises to be a bigger, bolder follow-up to the 2024 reboot of the ‘80s cult classic.
Andrew Bachelor, best known for his viral comedy and breakout roles in films like Violent Night 2, brings his signature charisma and comedic timing to the action-heavy franchise. While character details remain under wraps, Bachelor’s casting hints at a blend of humor and high-octane energy in the sequel.
Joining him is Indonesian martial arts star Iko Uwais, famed for his electrifying performances in The Raid films and Stuber. His inclusion signals that Road House 2 will lean even further into intense, choreographed fight sequences. Japanese actor Hidetoshi Nishijima, acclaimed for his role in the Oscar-winning Drive My Car, adds dramatic weight and international flair to the ensemble.
Directed by Ilya Naishuller and written by Will Beall, the sequel is described as a production of “greater scope, scale, and ambition.” Filming is set to take place across the U.K., Malta, and Savannah, Georgia. The film will also feature a lineup of real-life fighters, including Rico Verhoeven, Michael Chandler, Michael “Venom” Page, Dustin Poirier, Stephen Thompson, and Tyron Woodley, alongside returning cast member Jay Hieron as Jax “Jetway” Harris.
With its expanded cast and global production, Road House 2 is shaping up to be a thrilling continuation of the franchise—blending brutal action, star power, and a fresh comedic edge. Fans can expect a wild ride when the film hits Amazon Prime Video in 2026.
NEW YORK – November 5, 2025 – iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, and Stephen Curry and Erick Peyton’s Unanimous Media today announced “Not My Best Moment” – a new weekly original podcast series hosted by comedian, entrepreneur, and “New York Times” bestselling author Kevin Fredericks (aka KevOnStage). Premiering Wednesday, November 12, the first episode will feature a hilarious and honest conversation with Emmy and Golden Globe–nominated actress, writer, and producer Issa Rae about mistakes, growth, and resilience. Fans can listen to the trailer now, HERE.
Each week on “Not My Best Moment,” KevOnStage will sit down with athletes, entrepreneurs, and cultural trailblazers for candid conversations about the mistakes that made them who they are today. The series creates a safe space to laugh through pain and cry from joy, as guests unpack their lowest points and the lessons that helped them persevere. From early failures to career pivots and personal growth, Kevin will guide guests to find meaning in their missteps and humor in hindsight.
“I’ve made a career out of laughing at my own mistakes, so creating a space where people can do the same felt natural,” said Kevin Fredericks (aka KevOnStage) “‘Not My Best Moment’ is about finding the humor in our hardest times and realizing we’re all just figuring it out as we go. I’m excited to partner with iHeartPodcasts and Unanimous Media to help people laugh, learn, and maybe even heal a little through these conversations.”
“We’re proud to partner with Kevin and Unanimous Media on a series that celebrates honesty, growth and the humor that connects us all,” said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. “‘Not My Best Moment’ blends comedy with vulnerability to bring a fresh and distinctive voice to the iHeartPodcasts family.”
“At Unanimous, we’re always exploring new ways to tell stories that inspire, uplift, and connect through authenticity, humor, and heart,” said Stephen Curry and Erick Peyton, co-founders of Unanimous Media. “Not My Best Moment is exactly that, and we are proud to partner with Kevin to bring this series to life. His ability to bring out raw honesty while keeping the conversation fun and lighthearted makes this series something special, and we can’t wait for listeners to tune in.”
In the premiere episode, Issa Rae will open up about overspending as a young creator, her fear that success can disappear overnight, and how a failed pilot, “I Hate L.A. Dudes,” became one of the most formative experiences of her career. Upcoming episodes will include conversations with Anthony “Spice” Adams, Yvette Nicole Brown, Tabitha Brown, Jemele Hill, Tony Baker, and Yvonne Orji, among others.
“Not My Best Moment” is the third show to launch from iHeartMedia and Unanimous Media’s Unanimous Podcast Slate which includes “G.O.T.E. with Seth Curry and Travonne Edwards” and “Fudd Around And Find Out” hosted by Azzi Fudd and Ashanti Plummer. All shows on the slate are distributed by iHeartPodcasts.
New episodes of “Not My Best Moment” will be available on Wednesdays on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Video episodes will also be available on YouTube.
Donna Lewis, a unique voice in American comedy known for blending sharp wit with scientific insight, has passed away at the age of 62. Before launching her stand-up career, Lewis worked for NASA, a detail she often incorporated into her routines with clever, self-deprecating humor that resonated with audiences across the country.
Lewis’s journey from aerospace to comedy was anything but typical. As a NASA employee, she worked behind the scenes in administrative and technical roles, later using her experience to craft jokes that demystified science and celebrated the absurdities of bureaucracy. Her transition into comedy was marked by appearances on the Funny Women of a Certain Age podcast and showcases that highlighted her as a late-blooming but fiercely original talent.
She often joked about being a “non-astronaut” at NASA, poking fun at the public’s assumptions while celebrating the contributions of everyday professionals in high-stakes environments. Her routines touched on everything from government red tape to parenting, aging, and the quirks of suburban life.
Lewis was a regular on the East Coast comedy circuit, performing in clubs, festivals, and themed showcases that spotlighted women over 40. Her humor was warm, observational, and deeply relatable, earning her a loyal following among audiences who appreciated her authenticity and intellect.
Fellow comedians praised Lewis for her generosity and mentorship. Leighann Lord, host of Funny Women of a Certain Age, called her “a brilliant mind with a fearless heart,” adding that Lewis “proved it’s never too late to be funny, fierce, and unforgettable.”
Lewis passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by family. She is survived by her three children, whom she often referred to as her “comedy material,” and a legacy of laughter that bridged the gap between science and storytelling.
Donna Lewis may have launched her career from NASA, but her true orbit was the comedy stage—where she inspired others to embrace their quirks, chase their dreams, and find humor in the most unexpected places.
In this episode of Box Seats, we talk about the Los Angeles Dodgers defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in an epic baseball classic for Major League Baseball that will be talked about for years!
Plus, we talk about all of the games in the NFL this weekend, including the upsets!
We also talk about the hottest topics in sports! The comedians on this episode are Maurice Smith and Damien Jones!
#NBAPlayoffs #NFL #NBA #NBATrades #comedy #comedygrind #NFLTrades #NFLRumors #NFLFreeagency #NewYorkGiants #NewYorkJets #TheClevelandBrowns #TheSteelers #TheRams #Eagles #TheChiefs #Dak #DakPrescott #DallasCowboys #Eagles #PhiladelphiaEagles #philly #Cowboys
FX is expanding the universe of its acclaimed crime drama Snowfall with a newly ordered spinoff series starring original cast members Gail Bean and Isaiah John, who will reprise their roles as Wanda and Leon Simmons. The untitled series, set in 1990s Los Angeles, picks up shortly after the events of Snowfall, which concluded its six-season run in 2023.
Written and executive produced by Malcolm Spellman (Empire, Bel-Air, Hip Hop Uncovered), the spinoff centers on Wanda, a recovering addict, as she attempts to take West Coast rap mainstream amid rising gang violence and the exploitation of hip-hop culture by record labels. Leon, her partner, returns as a central figure navigating the chaos of post-crack-era L.A. The show promises to explore the intersection of music, survival, and ambition during one of the most transformative periods in urban culture.
Alongside Bean and John, the cast includes Asante Blackk, Peyton Alex Smith, and Simmie Sims III, adding fresh energy to the gritty narrative. FX President Nick Grad praised the project, saying, “This new series takes us back to one of the most formative eras in music with the birth of the West Coast rap revolution”.
The production team reunites several Snowfall veterans, including Dave Andron, Thomas Schlamme, Julie DeJoie, Michael London, and Trevor Engelson, ensuring continuity in tone and storytelling. FX Productions will produce the series, which is slated to premiere in 2026 on FX and stream on Hulu.
With its powerful leads, rich cultural backdrop, and a fresh narrative lens, the Snowfall spinoff is poised to be a compelling continuation of the legacy left by the original series. Fans can expect a raw, music-infused drama that captures the pulse of a pivotal moment in Black history and hip-hop culture.
Netflix’s upcoming comedy-drama Babies is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated ensemble films of 2026, with the recent announcement that Insecure creator and star Issa Rae has joined the cast. Rae will appear alongside Dan Stevens, Zach Cherry, and Kate Berlant, joining previously announced leads Anna Kendrick and Seth Rogen in the new project from writer-director Lauren Miller Rogen.
Babies centers on Annie (Kendrick) and her husband, Aaron (Rogen), a couple grappling with the decision of whether to have children. Their lives are turned upside down when a newly divorced friend moves in with her four-year-old, forcing them into an unexpected co-parenting situation. The film is described as a “comedy-drama about the journey to parenthood… or not,” blending heartfelt moments with sharp humor.
Issa Rae, known for her dynamic performances and cultural impact, joins the ensemble in a supporting role. While her character details remain under wraps, her presence adds star power and comedic depth to the already impressive lineup.
Directed by Miller Rogen—who previously helmed Like Father—Babies is currently filming on location in Los Angeles. The production is backed by the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit program, with AGC Studios and Monarch Media producing. The film is being pitched to buyers at the American Film Market, with AGC Studios and CAA Media Finance co-representing worldwide rights.
Producers include Lauren Miller Rogen and Jen W. Ray for LYLAS Pictures, Stuart Ford for AGC Studios, and Steve Barnett for Monarch Media. Executive producers include Miguel A. Palos Jr., Zach Garrett, Alan Powell, Vicky Patel, and Sophie Høegh.
With a powerhouse cast and a relatable, timely premise, Babies promises to deliver laughs, heart, and a fresh take on modern parenthood. Issa Rae’s addition only heightens the excitement for what’s sure to be a standout release in Netflix’s 2026 slate.
For the first time, Eddie Murphy is looking back on the extraordinary journey of his career — and looking ahead at what’s still to come.
Being Eddie, a forthcoming documentary premiering on Netflix Nov. 12, chronicles the Oscar-nominated actor’s meteoric rise from teen comic phenom to Saturday Night Live breakout and stand-up supernova to box-office titan. In this intimate portrait, Murphy opens up his home and dives deep into his groundbreaking career of nearly 50 years and counting.
Said director and two-time Oscar winner Angus Wall (The Social Network, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button): “There is no one else like him. Nobody. He’s been famous longer than just about anyone alive, and he’s never lost who he is. He has survived it all with grace. How did he do that? What guides him? We chase all of these questions with him.”
In the documentary, Murphy discusses entertaining three generations of fans with a filmography that spans comedy, action, drama, animation, musicals, and family fare. Friends, co-stars, directors, and fellow comics including Arsenio Hall, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Jamie Foxx, Jerry Seinfeld, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Tracy Morgan offer insight into Murphy’s singular life and career, and the undeniable influence of his breakout Saturday Night Live era, his stand-up films like Raw, ’80s megahits Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, and Trading Places, ’90s classics like The Nutty Professor, the Shrek franchise in the 2000s, and his Oscar-nominated performance in Dreamgirls, among many others.
“There’s a great clip of Eddie on a talk show early on in his career, talking about how he’s always been able to do impersonations and different voices. He talks about how his mom used to ask him, ‘Who’s Eddie? What voice is Eddie’s voice?’ This movie answers that question,” Wall said. “Eddie has played a lot of different characters over the last 40-plus years, but he has never played himself onscreen before. He opens up his world and his heart and I think people are going to really enjoy spending time with him.”
Being Eddie is produced by John Davis, John Fox, Charisse Hewitt-Webster, Terry Leonard, and Kent Kubena.
Take a first look at the documentary in the trailer above.
Nearly three decades after captivating audiences in the cult classic Love Jones, Nia Long and Larenz Tate are reuniting for a new romantic drama at Netflix. The untitled film, officially greenlit by the streaming giant, promises to rekindle the onscreen chemistry that made the duo one of the most beloved pairs in Black cinema history.
Directed by Eugene Ashe (Sylvie’s Love) and co-written with This Is Us writer-producer Kay Oyegun, the film draws inspiration from Maxwell’s debut album Urban Hang Suite, a cornerstone of 1990s R&B. While plot details remain under wraps, the project is expected to explore themes of love, vulnerability, and emotional intimacy—echoing the smooth, sensual energy of Maxwell’s music.
The film is being produced by MACRO Film Studios, with James Lopez, Charles D. King, and Poppy Hanks at the helm. Maxwell himself, along with John D. Hammond, Long, and Tate, will serve as executive producers, ensuring the story remains rooted in authentic cultural expression.
This marks the third collaboration between Long and Tate, who recently worked together on the Michael Jackson biopic Michael. Their return to romantic drama has sparked excitement among fans eager to see the duo recapture the magic of Love Jones in a fresh, modern context.
With a soulful soundtrack, powerhouse creative team, and two of Black Hollywood’s most iconic stars, Netflix’s untitled romantic drama is shaping up to be a must-watch celebration of love, legacy, and timeless chemistry.