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July Streaming Picks: Must-Watch Movies To Catch This Month

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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.

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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.

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Meghan Markle Delays Netflix Series Premiere Due To LA Wildfires

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Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has postponed the premiere of her Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, in light of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.

Originally set to debut on January 15, the show will now launch on March 4. Meghan expressed gratitude to Netflix for supporting her decision to delay the release, saying, “I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California.”

Netflix’s Tudum platform confirmed the postponement, highlighting that the show, a tribute to the beauty of Southern California, had been rescheduled due to the ongoing crisis.

Meghan and Prince Harry have actively supported relief efforts, offering their Montecito home as a refuge for friends and loved ones displaced by the fires. On January 10, they distributed food and supplies in Pasadena, met with affected families, and thanked first responders for their work. Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo commended the couple, saying their presence uplifted spirits and provided hope to those impacted.

The couple also released a statement urging residents to assist evacuees, check on vulnerable neighbors, and donate essential items to families who’ve lost everything. They encouraged support for organizations like the American Red Cross, which is actively aiding wildfire victims.

Through their actions and advocacy, Meghan and Harry continue to demonstrate their commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis.

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Satire Meets Culture On New Comedy Series ‘A Very Kenyan Sketch Show’

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Nearly 20 years after high school, Erick Muriuki and Doug Mutai have teamed up to create A Very Kenyan Sketch Show, a witty and innovative take on Kenyan life.

The series uses sharp cinematography and sketch comedy to explore the humor in everyday situations, highlighting the quirks and absurdities of local culture.

The cast features rising stars Morris Mwangi (Faithless), Faiz Ouma (Untying Kantai), and Sanchez Marley (Nairobby), alongside guest appearances from Eddie Butita, Marya Okoth, TikTok dancer Collo Blue, and Instagram personality Sisinei Parmeres.

Co-produced by Stand-up Collective and Tribesman Pictures, the show premiered on January 4th at the Nairobi Laugh Bar to rave reviews. Audiences praised its clever humor and high production quality, a sentiment echoed globally after its YouTube debut on January 6th.

Muriuki, a filmmaker behind hits like A Nurse Toto, brought his expertise to the project, while Mutai added his comedic flair. “We wanted to celebrate Kenyan culture by poking fun at its quirks,” said Muriuki. Mutai added, “It’s all about taking ordinary moments and turning them into comedic gold.”

A Very Kenyan Sketch Show is a refreshing celebration of Kenyan humor and creativity, promising to set a new standard for local entertainment.

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Netflix Set To Debut A Gripping Kenyan Drama Series ‘Mo-Faya’

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Netflix is set to broaden its repertoire of African storytelling with the premiere of Mo-Faya, an enthralling new drama series from acclaimed creator and director Reuben Odanga.

The seven-episode series is scheduled to launch on December 20, 2024, offering audiences a unique blend of intense drama and telenovela flair.

Mo-Faya takes viewers on a journey through Nairobi’s vibrant streets and into the lesser-seen corners of Western Kenya, an area rarely spotlighted in mainstream media. The show centers on Zawadie, whose life unravels after learning life-altering secrets about her family. Determined to rebuild, she begins a new chapter with her boyfriend, Brian. But when she discovers his dangerous double life, Zawadie is drawn into a shadowy world filled with betrayal and crime.

The series features a mix of seasoned talent and emerging stars, including Lorna Lemi (Nairobby), Brahim Ouma (Pepeta), and newcomers Tobit Tom and Mathew Ngugi. Also joining the cast are Alex Mwakideu (Nafsi), Blessing Lung’aho (Country Queen), Basil Mungai (Kina), Tessy Njine (Selina), and the well-known media personality Cate Rira.

Reuben Odanga, known for his work on the critically acclaimed, Kalasha Award-winning telenovela Selina, brings his expertise to Mo-Faya, marking his first series for Netflix. His directorial debut feature film, Nafsi, was also featured on the platform in 2022, solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in Kenyan storytelling.

Mo-Faya promises to bring a fresh and compelling voice to the global stage of drama.

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