Reels & Riddims

Send us a textEver wondered how Michael Jackson's "Thriller" album managed to stay relevant across generations? Get ready to uncover the secrets behind its universal appeal as we celebrate its 40th anniversary! From our childhood memories of eagerly watching the groundbreaking "Thriller" music video to the way it continues to captivate our own children today, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the King of Pop. Listen as we reminisce about the cultural impact of Michael Jackson’s music in ...

Send us a text"Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell" is a Netflix documentary that pulls back the curtain, of the early life and influences of Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G. Through never-before-seen home video footage, we witness the transformation of a Brooklyn boy into a global icon. The significance of Biggie's Jamaican heritage, his profound connection with his mother Voletta Wallace, and the pivotal moments that marked his ascension to rap nobility - it's all la...

Send us a textOur latest episode, features the film "Shirley," starring Regina King and directed by the visionary John Ridley. We break down the intricacies of Chisholm's presidential campaign, her indelible Barbadian-American heritage, and how her story resonates with the undercurrents of today's societal fabric. As watched the film we can't help but share a connection to Shirley's pioneering essence, a reminder that the courage to lead often begins with the courage to be different.As we ste...

Send us a textThis episode is an edited version of our Instagram Live from April 19th. Listen to Mikelah and Kerry-Ann catch up on the latest on TV and streaming kicking it off with Sheryl Lee Ralph's ongoing Jamaican representation in Abbott Elementary. Their discussion moves to the reality show that brings the Cayman Islands to life and the excitement building around "Shirley" and "Queenie."Amid reflections and laughs, we also discuss the less than transparent decisions behind televisi...

Send us a textIt's a riddims episode! Mikelah went to the Traffic Jam Concert, featuring Damian Jr. Gong Marley and Stephen Ragga Marley. Relive the magic with Mikelah as she recounts the concert where the synergy between these siblings wasn't just heard; it was felt. Tune in for an episode that celebrates not only the sounds of reggae but also the enduring spirit of the Marley family, connecting us all through the power of music.Video: Jamdown's FinestConnect with us: @re...

Send us a textOur latest episode takes you through the period series "Three Little Birds," a British mini-series crafted by Sir Lenny Henry that traces the lives of three Jamaican women in 1950s Great Britain. We discuss the emotional complexity and the heavy choices faced by these women in pursuit of a better future for their loved ones, all while navigating the cultural dynamics of family, both left behind and newly formed in foreign lands. We invite you to join us in this explor...

Send us a textThis is a quick mini-sode of Reels and Riddims. Kerry-Ann is doing a check in and update about what's coming up. Tune in.Be sure to:Share with us what your favorite episode from Season 2 has been and why. We might just shout you out in the next episode. Follow, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast app. Give us a five-star rating and a written review Thank you for supporting Reels & RiddimsConnect with us: @reelsandriddims on Instagram Website | YouTube ...

Send us a textWelcome to part 2 of our passionate town hall-style critique of the "Bob Marley One Love Movie." As we dissect the film's selective focus and its potential missteps in portraying the reggae legend's multifaceted persona, our conversation becomes a powerful call for authenticity in cultural narratives.This episode transcends mere film review, becoming a platform for a broader conversation about the delicate craft of balancing reverence and critical exploration of our heritage. We...

Send us a textIn this joint episode of Carry On Friends, Style & Vibes and Reels & Riddims we are unpacking the "Bob Marley One Love Movie." Joined by regular guests and audience members, we engage in a lively debate. Our panel sheds light on the communal legacy of Marley, while casting a critical eye on the choices made in representing the music icon. The temperature rises when we turn to the controversial casting decisions that have sparked dialogue and discontent across Marle...

Send us a textIn this episode we wrap up our review of The Netflix series Champion, covering episodes 6 though 8. Our discussion begins discussing episode 6 where Beres, Aria and Vita goes to Jamaica for a funeral. The filming in Jamaica was absolutely PERFECT with the show's attention to detail, highlighting the authentic portrayal of Jamaican culture, from the scenic beauty of the island to the significance of traditions such as the nine-night. Why almost every Caribbean funeral c...

Send us a textWelcome back to Reels & Riddims! We are still discussing episodes 4 and 5 of the Champion series currently on Netflix. In these epsiodes we continue to see where the paths of Vita and Bosco take dramatic turns. We're peeling back layers of complex characters and hidden secrets as we explore Vida's artistic journey and Bosco's haunting past. Join us as we share every nuanced feeling, unearthing the intentions behind characters like Laurent and Memet.As we anticipate the ...

Send us a textWe're back with more reactions to the Netflix Series Champion and we're deep diving into episodes 2 and 3. Our latest chat takes you behind the scenes of Vita's complex journey, where her leap from the shadows to the spotlight stirs up a family drama. Witness the raw moments as she asserts herself, and a moment of vulnerability that sparks a chain of events that leads to a fiery family argument and feelings of betrayal. There's so much to dissect.Don't miss this beat—join u...

Send us a textKerry-Ann and Mikelah are back for a second season of Reels and Riddims; and they're unpacking Netflix's latest hit series, "Champion" - set against a backdrop rich in British and Jamaican influences, we delve into the Champion family saga. In this epsiode we review episode 1 of the series "Champion vs. Champion." The Champion siblings' rivalry takes center stage, with Vita's uncredited contributions to Bosco's music career fueling a narrative that's as gripping as it is re...

Send us a textWe unpack the Hulu series "Black Cake" with special guests Alexandria from the Strictly Facts podcast and Georgie-Ann, a past guest. In our lively dialogue, we delve into the critical importance of historical accuracy and character development. We share candid thoughts on how the storylines could be more faithful to the era's true spirit and the vital need for genuine on-screen chemistry. Our anticipation grows for future episodes that promise a deeper exploration into char...

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how the soul of a book fares on its journey to the screen? In this episode, Mikelah and Kerry-Ann share candid reflections on Hulu's "Black Cake" series adaptation and its rich literary origins by Charmaine Wilkerson. Join us as we compare Hulu's adaptation and the original book. We tackle the complexities inherent in depicting family secrets, cultural identity, and the authenticity of representation, particularly in the realms of casting and dialect....

Send us a textOur latest episode spotlights Netflix's "Survival of the Thickest," where Michelle Buteau embodies the heart of Caribbean vivacity, and we dissect the multifaceted portrayals that resonate so powerfully with our community. We dissect the laughter and challenges woven into Caribbean parenting, and the candid, sometimes tough, conversations that shape our familial bonds, delivering a celebration of representation that's as flavorful as our cuisine.Venture further with us as we cha...

Send us a textWe're peeling back the vibrant tapestry of New York City's Harlem, as seen through the eyes of four dynamic women in the Amazon series of the same name. Our conversation examines how Caribbean heritage flavors the narrative and the pivotal moments where Grace Byers and Jasmine Guy shine, bringing authenticity and complexity to their roles. This episode isn't just about the on-screen drama; it's about the reverberations in our own lives, exploring how themes of ambition, friendsh...

Send us a textThis episode is a deep dive into the Lovers' Rock episode in Small Axe, the British Anthology Series. Join us to understand how an entire generation of diaspora children in the UK stamped their cultural presence in the echoes of house parties and the reverberating bass of sound systems. We'll pay homage to the women who crafted this scene and the unifying force of Janet Kay's "Silly Games," a tune that transcends time and remains a beacon of the genre's influence.Connect with us...

Send us a textThis episode features Rachel Osborn from Julie Mango TV. Together, we unpack the compelling British anthology "Small Axe," which chronicles the West Indian community's stories in London during the 1960s to 1980s. The conversation goes beyond the screen to dissect the critical need for spaces that amplify Caribbean voices in film, and we delve into the symbiosis of global Black liberation movements, highlighting the poignant themes that resonate through time.Rachel lends her expe...

Send us a textWelcome to Reels & Riddims where every episode promises an insider's peek into the captivating world of TV, film, documentaries, and live music experiences, all while showcasing the strength and diversity of Caribbean narratives that resonate with our experiences across the Americas and the UK. Join us as we merge our previous individual discussions from Style and Vibes and Carry On Friends, creating a collective space to share our seasoned perspectives. From shows that...

Send us a textWelcome to Reels & Riddims a new podcast brought to you by Carry On Friends in partnership with Style & Vibes and Breadfruit Media. Reels & Riddims is hosted by Kerry-Ann and Mikelah. Each episode, they offer their candid reviews and reactions to what they're watching on TV, Streaming, Movies or Live Entertainment/Concerts - especially those that have strong Caribbean stories and characters. Tune in for candid discussion between friends about reels and ridd...