At the Movies: Black is King, Yes God Yes

BY SCOTTIE KNOLLIN

Black is King

Written, produced, and directed by Beyonce, “Black is King” is a musical film and visual album that somewhat serves as a companion piece to 2019’s The Lion King: The Gift album. Beyonce had originally released that album in conjunction with the theatrical release of 2019’s “The Lion King” film. The album was described as a love letter to Africa. “Black is King” was produced on location throughout the continent of Africa, including Nigeria and Ghana. The cast and crew were recruited from each country. Filming also took place in New York, Los Angeles, London, and Belgium. Critics have praised the film, with Evening Standard’s David Smyth describing it as a “sumptuous, breathtaking celebration of ancestry.”

“Black is King” is now streaming on Disney+.

Yes, God, Yes

Natalie Dyer (“Stranger Things”) stars as 16-year old Alice, a good Catholic girl, who discovers self-love after a steamy AOL chat. The early-2000s set comedy first premiered at the 2019 SXSW Film Festival. Directed by Karen Maine, “Yes, God Yes,” received a limited release in drive-in theaters and virtual cinemas, due to COVID-19, earlier this month. Critics praised the comedy, with many highlighting Dyer’s performance and Maine’s sensitive handling of the coming-of-age tropes.

“Yes, God, Yes” is now available for VOD rental and purchase.