Entertainment
July Streaming Picks: Must-Watch Movies To Catch This Month
This July, a host of exciting new films are hitting African streaming service, Showmax.
From musical comedies to superhero adventures, action thrillers, and heartwarming animations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s a roundup of the must-watch movies this month:
Mean Girls | Stream from Monday, 1 July
Tina Fey brings a musical twist to the beloved Mean Girls, originally inspired by Rosalind Wiseman’s Queen Bees and Wannabes. This 2024 box office hit stars Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, who navigates high school politics with “The Plastics” until she falls for Regina’s ex, Aaron, played by Christopher Briney. Reneé Rapp reprises her Broadway role as Regina, with Auli’i Cravalho and Jaquel Spivey also joining the cast. Catch the original 2004 movie on Showmax for a refresher.
Blue Beetle | Stream from Monday, 1 July
Blue Beetle introduces Jaime Reyes, played by Xolo Maridueña, who discovers an ancient alien relic, the Scarab, transforming him into the titular superhero. The film, celebrated at the Critics Choice Super Awards, also stars Adriana Barraza, George Lopez, Raoul Max Trujillo, Harvey Guillén, and Susan Sarandon, with Becky G voicing Khaji-Da. This refreshing superhero story is recommended for ages 12+.
The Beekeeper | Stream from Monday, 8 July
Jason Statham stars in The Beekeeper, a gripping tale of vengeance and corruption. Directed by David Ayer, this action-packed film features Emmy Raver-Lampman, Josh Hutcherson, Minnie Driver, Phylicia Rashad, and Jeremy Irons. Statham’s character’s quest for justice escalates to national stakes in this year’s 13th biggest global blockbuster.
Migration | Stream from Sunday, 14 July
From Illumination, Migration follows overprotective duck dad Mack and his family’s adventurous journey. Featuring voices by Kumail Nanjiani, Elizabeth Banks, Keegan-Michael Key, Awkwafina, and Danny DeVito, this charming animated film is recommended for ages 6+ and is perfect for family viewing.
Anyone But You | Stream from Monday, 15 July
In this romantic comedy, Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell play Bea and Ben, who fake a relationship at a destination wedding. Directed by Will Gluck, the film also stars Alexandra Shipp, Hadley Robinson, Michelle Hurd, Dermot Mulroney, Darren Barnet, and Rachel Griffiths. Based loosely on Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, it’s a delightful and sizzling watch.
BlackBerry | Stream from Thursday, 18 July
BlackBerry tells the story of the rise and fall of the world’s first smartphone, starring Jay Baruchel, Glenn Howerton, and Matt Johnson, who also directs. This critically acclaimed comedy has garnered over 25 awards and a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes for its sharp humor and insightful narrative.
Master Gardener | Stream from Thursday, 18 July
Directed by Paul Schrader, Master Gardener stars Joel Edgerton, Sigourney Weaver, and Quintessa Swindell. The film follows horticulturist Narvel Roth as his quiet life is disrupted by dark secrets when he takes on an apprentice. This thriller has been praised for Schrader’s masterful direction and Weaver’s award-winning performance.
Silent Night | Stream from Monday, 22 July
Joel Kinnaman stars in Silent Night, directed by John Woo. The film follows a father’s quest for vengeance after his son is killed on Christmas Eve. Featuring Scott Mescudi and Catalina Sandino Moreno, this action-packed drama has been lauded for its cinematic brilliance by Roger Ebert.
Showmax is reintroducing a range of classic films this July. Highlights include IMDb’s top-rated Groundhog Day (from 1 July) with Bill Murray, and box office hits like Space Jam (from 1 July) featuring Michael Jordan and Bugs Bunny, Venom (from 1 July) starring Tom Hardy, and Dumb and Dumber (from 4 July) with Jim Carrey. Oscar nominees such as Troy (from 8 July) starring Brad Pitt, Sherlock Holmes (from 11 July) with Robert Downey Jr., and Moneyball (from 29 July) featuring Brad Pitt will also be available. Additionally, fans can enjoy Spider-Man: Far From Home (from 18 July) starring Tom Holland and Zendaya, Game Night (from 25 July) with Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams, A Cinderella Story (from 4 July) starring Hilary Duff, and The Dukes of Hazzard (from 18 July) featuring Jessica Simpson.
Spotify has named Nigerian music sensation FAVE as its EQUAL Africa Artist of the Month for November 2024.
With her soulful voice, captivating lyrics, and unique rhythmic style, FAVE has become one of Nigeria’s most influential musical figures, gaining international recognition.
FAVE’s breakthrough came in 2020 with the viral hit “N.B.U.,” followed by her debut EP Riddim 5. She has since collaborated with top Nigerian artists like Olamide, Simi, Phyno, and Davido. Notably, her feature on Davido’s “Kante” from the Timeless album was one of Spotify’s most-streamed tracks in Nigeria in 2023.
Reflecting on her journey, FAVE shared, “Being a woman in the music industry can be challenging, but it’s made me more determined. The EQUAL program is vital because it amplifies women’s voices and promotes balance in the industry.”
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, praised FAVE’s global appeal, saying, “FAVE represents the incredible talent coming out of Africa, and we’re proud to celebrate her as part of the EQUAL Africa program. She’s an inspiration for future artists.”
She recently released a new track titled Dutty Love on November 7.
Entertainment
Kenyan Music Producer DTX Encourages Listeners To Get ‘High’ On Life’s Wins With New Single
Kenyan music producer and songwriter DTX is set to make waves with the release of his newest single, High.
Known for his dynamic production style that seamlessly blends a wide array of genres—including pop, electronic, hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, afrobeat, trap, drill, dubstep, and EDM—DTX continues to push boundaries in Kenya’s music scene. This versatility is on full display in High, a track that promises to resonate with music lovers everywhere.
High is an energizing, celebratory track that encapsulates the pure joy of life’s victories. Whether it’s a milestone, a special moment, or a burst of confidence, the song is a call to revel in life’s highs, whatever they may be. Through this single, DTX creates a universal message aimed at inspiring happiness and self-assurance across all walks of life.
“I made this track so people can embrace and cherish their highs, whatever form they take,” says DTX. “Whether it’s love, success, career achievements, or personal growth, I want listeners to celebrate themselves and feel proud.”
DTX has earned acclaim for producing some of Kenya’s most beloved tracks, including Sauti Sol’s Rhumba Japani, Savara’s Balance, and Nyashinski’s Silencer. His unique touch and dedication to innovation have cemented his reputation as one of Kenya’s leading music producers.
With High, DTX invites fans to reflect on their accomplishments, big or small, and add a soundtrack to their personal triumphs. The track is a reminder to take a moment, let loose, and enjoy life’s special moments with unbridled joy.
Ariana Grande recently shared her plans to slow down her music career, a move she knows might surprise her fans.
Speaking on the ‘Las Culturistas’ podcast, the 31-year-old pop star revealed how playing Glinda the Good Witch in the upcoming Wicked film adaptation has reignited her love for musical theatre. While she promised not to abandon music entirely, Grande explained she no longer envisions keeping up her intense pop music pace.
“It is my heart,” she said, adding, “I’m always going to make music and perform, but not at the rate I have been for the past 10 years.”
Grande, whose career began with the Broadway musical 13 at age 15, reflected on the joy of returning to her roots. “Reconnecting with this part of myself and finding roles to use my comedy and musical theatre background has been healing,” she shared, emphasizing the emotional importance of this shift.
The former Victorious star acknowledged the mixed reactions to her casting as Glinda, admitting on the ‘Sentimental Man’ podcast that she felt the need to prove herself. “It has to be earned,” she said, highlighting the training she undertook to prepare.
Grande aims to balance her love for theatre with continued work in music—at a pace that feels more sustainable for her future.
Fave Takes the Spotlight As Spotify’s Equal Africa Artist For November
Kenyan Music Producer DTX Encourages Listeners To Get ‘High’ On Life’s Wins With New Single
Pop Star Ariana Grande Slows Down Music To Embrace Musical Theatre Roots
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