Shows
Reels & Riddims"Home Again": Deportation, Identity & Caribbean Realities – Season 3 FinaleSend us a textIn this season finale we take a deep dive into the 2012 film Home Again, a gripping Caribbean drama that explores what happens when deportees are forced to return to a country they barely know.Starring Tatyana Ali, Stephan James, and Lyriq Bent, Home Again brings to life the emotional and social challenges faced by those sent back to Jamaica from the U.S., UK, and Canada. We unpack the film’s key themes—like identity, belonging, reintegration, and systemic injusticeConnect with us: @reelsandriddims on Instagram Website | 2025-05-0929 minReels & RiddimsSugar Dumplin': Celebrating Jamaican Culture & Honoring Comedy Legend Oliver SamuelsSend us a textThis episode highlights the creative journey behind the film Sugar Dumplin, focusing on its themes of family, identity, and the impact of dementia. Tristan Barrocks and Donisha Prendergast share their insights on cultural representation and the importance of community engagement in the narrative.• Discussion on the personal motivations behind creating Sugar Dumplin • Exploration of the father-daughter relationship affected by dementia • Emphasis on the need for authentic representation in film • Insights into the challenges of independent film distribution • Importance of community involvement and support for cultural storytellingSugar...2025-04-251h 04Reels & RiddimsSpeed, Legacy and the Woman Nobody Missed for Three YearsSend us a textIn this episode, we explore two fascinating documentaries through Caribbean cultural perspectives - "Sprint" on Netflix and "Dreams of a Life" on Amazon Prime - offering unique insights on Olympic track stars and a mysterious woman who died alone in her apartment, undiscovered for three years."Sprint" follows Olympic track stars like Noah Lyles, Sha'Carri Richardson, Shericka Jackson, Kishane Thompson and more preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics"Dreams of a Life" tells the tragic story of Joyce Vincent, found dead in her apartment three years after her deathJoyce's compartmentalized life resulted in...2025-04-1140 minReels & RiddimsOne Love (2003): 22 Years Later with Kymani Marley, Cherine Anderson & Idris ElbaSend us a textAfter 22 years, we finally watch the 2003 film "One Love" starring Kymani Marley and Cherine Anderson, with a pre-fame Idris Elba playing a supporting role. This romantic drama explores forbidden love between a Rastafarian musician and a Pentecostal preacher's daughter who meet at a music competition in Jamaica. Listen for our take on the movie. Connect with us: @reelsandriddims on Instagram Website | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production 2025-03-2825 minReels & RiddimsWhat We've Been Watching: Spring EditionSend us a textIn this episode, we discuss our spring watchlists. Shows discussed in this episode:"Swagger" (Apple TV) delivers authentic portrayal of young Black basketball players navigating social movements and showcasing Black joy"Court of Gold" (Netflix) and "I Beat the Dream Team" (HBO Max) "Paradise" on Hulu presents an intriguing take on end-of-the-world scenarios with unexpected plot twistsHBO's Luther Vandross documentary reveals the music legend's struggles with crossover success despite extraordinary vocal talents comparable to Whitney HoustonIkon Media Short Film - Tomorrow Is Your Day.And moreReels Radar 2025-03-1441 minReels & RiddimsRockers: A Dive into 1970s Jamaican Cinema & Reggae CultureSend us a textWe take a deep dive into the 1978 film Rockers, exploring its cultural significance and impact on the Rastafarian movement through reggae music. The episode connects the dots between the film’s portrayal of community perseverance and the historical context of 1970s Jamaica.• Exploration of the film's setting in 1970s Jamaica • Discussion of the filmmakers and their approach • Analysis of cultural significance and themes of resistance • Insights into the real-life connections among characters • Reflections on the integration of music and storytelling • Examination of iconic scenes and their impact •...2025-02-2826 minReels & RiddimsJamaica Story: My Story, Your Story, Our Story | Documentary ReviewSend us a textMikey T's documentary "Jamaica Story" serves as a rich exploration of Jamaican culture, identity, and the diaspora's impact on societal growth. Through diverse perspectives, the episode addresses critical issues including migration, media representation, and the importance of community action.• Discussion on the importance of accessible projects for cultural dialogue • Reflection on the impact of social media on lifestyle choices • Analysis of diverse perspectives presented in the documentary • Examination of crime perceptions in Jamaican society • Emphasis on community engagement and solutions • Insights into cultural pride and identity struggles 2025-02-1425 minReels & RiddimsBreaking Down HBO Max’s ‘Get Millie Black’: A Jamaican Crime DramaSend us a text"Get Millie Black" unearths the layers of family dynamics, ambition and crime through the lens of Jamaican culture. As Millie navigates a complex investigation, the show reveals deeper societal issues, intertwining personal traumas with broader cultural challenges. • Exploration of familial complexities and unresolved traumas • Representation of queerness and the LGBTQ+ experience in Jamaica • Themes of ambition leading to dire consequences • Rich visual storytelling reflective of Jamaican culture • Multi-layered narratives through varying character perspectivesConnect with us: @reelsandriddims on Instagram Website | YouTube 2025-01-3149 minReels & RiddimsWhat We've Been Watching - Winter EditionSend us a textIn this episode, we explore our winter watchlists, diving into thrilling series and documentaries that capture our attention and reflect Caribbean cultural narratives. Our discussion of 'Cross' and 'Martha' showcases engaging storytelling. We also chat about creating a community around shared viewing experiences and share our excitement for upcoming releases.Shows discussed in this episode:Cross on AmazonMartha on NetflixDune Prophecy on MaxLater Daters on NetflixThe Madness on NetflixLisa Frank on AmazonThe Day of the Jackal on PeacockHarlem - season 3 on AmazonWatson - new series on CBSSurvival of the Thickest...2025-01-1730 minReels & RiddimsNetflix's Brother: A Canadian-Jamaican DramaSend us a textIn this episode, we discuss the Canadian-Jamaican drama, "Brother," a film that highlights the narratives of identity, family, and the immigrant experience within Toronto's vibrant Scarborough district. The story follows two brothers, Michael and Francis, as they grapple with the impact of familial absence and the struggles of immigrant families, uncovering themes of community and identity. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the importance of personal interpretations and diverse backgrounds in shaping our perceptions of immigration and cultural identity. The film's open-ended narrative invites viewers to engage with the story on a...2025-01-0339 minReels & RiddimsPrime's Boxing Day & Christmas Movie FavoritesSend us a textJoin us in this festive episode where we dive into the magic of Christmas 🎄 movies through a Caribbean-American lens, featuring a special review of Boxing Day (available on Amazon Prime) and share our top picks for holiday movies that blend humor, family, and tradition. Whether it’s Elf or This Christmas, our “Reels List” will give you all the cozy vibes for the season.Discover how Caribbean culture meets Christmas traditions, with lively commentary on cast performances, cultural themes, and even a touch of dancehall vibes! 🎶 Don’t miss out—share your favorite hol...2024-12-2025 minReels & RiddimsThe Honorable Shyne: From Hip-Hop Stardom to Political Leadership in BelizeSend us a textWhat if a young rapper could rise to political prominence, transforming his life and the future of his nation? On this episode of Reels and Riddims, we take you on an extraordinary journey through the life of Moses "Shyne" Barrow. From the glitz and glamour of the rap world to the sober corridors of political power in Belize, Shyne's story is one of resilience and transformation. Join us as we discuss the documentary "The Honorable Shyne," now available on Hulu. With a focus on Shyne's rapid ascent in the music industry...2024-12-0641 minReels & RiddimsThe Reels & Riddims Expanded Rating System for Caribbean Representation in TV & FilmSend us a textWe've revamped our rating system with fresh categories that spotlight the magic of soundtracks and cultural settings. Originally, Reels & Riddims identified Accent, Character Development, and Storyline as essential elements to evaluate the authenticity and quality of Caribbean representation in media. Now, we’re excited to introduce a more comprehensive, five-part rating system to deepen these assessments and bring focus to elements that amplify the Caribbean experience. We added 2 categories - Music & Sound and Visual Authenticity to highlight the Caribbean culture that’s central to our reviews. Originally there were 3 categories - Hear...2024-11-2912 minReels & RiddimsNew Season + What We’ve Been Watching Over the BreakSend us a textWelcome to season 3 of Reels and Riddims, where we bring a fresh perspective rooted in our Jamaican & Caribbean heritage and experiences in America. In this episode we catch you up on all the shows and movies we’ve been into since Season 2 ended which includes hits like Hulu's Reasonable Doubt to Apple TV's Vince Vaughn's Bad Monkey. We also explore other captivating series like How to Die Alone and dive into HBO Max's Coming From America, a narrative that follows Black families' emotional journeys from America to Africa. Tune in to get...2024-11-2217 min
Carry On Friends: The Caribbean American ExperienceRoots, Rock, Reggae, Souls: A Cultural Exploration with Director, Jessica ShawSend us a textIn this Carry On Friends, Style & Vibes, Reels & Riddims crossover episode Mikelah and I chat with with Jessica Shaw a Jamaica American TV Producer about her upcoming documentary "Roots Rock Reggae Souls" which has received an overwhelming response on social media. We talk about "Souls" being a catchall term Jamaicans use for music from a variety of genres, including country, R&B, pop, ballads and soft rock. Prepare to be immersed in stories and personal memories of music and the role radio play in Jamaica's eclectic taste in music. ...2024-09-0358 min
The Style & Vibes PodcastBreaking Barriers for women in Dancehall and Hip-Hop (Throwback Episode)Chat to me!What if the notion of 'only one woman can be on top' in the music industry is nothing more than a myth perpetuated by the media? Joining me in this episode to dissect this is executive producer Kerry-Ann and Shawn from Reggae Talk Podcast. We challenge this stereotype and shine alight on the remarkable diversity of female talent across genres. We dissect how media narratives fuel rivalries like Rihanna vs. Beyonce and Nicki Minaj vs. Cardi B, questioning whether these stories serve to engage audiences or simply reflect societal biases. Together, we explore how...2024-08-1945 minReels & RiddimsExploring Queenie: Book vs Hulu Series & Celebrating Caribbean IdentitiesSend us a textJoin us on this episode of Reels and Riddims, where we discuss Candice Carty Williams' "Queenie," and its Hulu miniseries adaptation. We dissect Queenie's tumultuous journey through her twenties, including her relationships, exploring her dating life, the influence of her family history, and the body fetishization she faces. We also try unravel the complexities in her strained relationship with her mother. Celebrate the richness of Jamaican and Caribbean identities on screen with us. Whether you're a fan of compelling storytelling or crave authentic cultural representation, this episode is a mu...2024-06-1952 minReels & RiddimsThriller Turns 40: Michael Jackson's Timeless Legacy & Impact on Pop CultureSend 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 Jamaica and explore how his extraordinary work transcends time and generations.Through the documentary ge...2024-06-0537 minReels & RiddimsBiggie: I Got a Story to Tell | A Look Into His Life & InfluencesSend 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 laid bare.We delve into the love and the conflicts that shaped B...2024-05-2235 minReels & RiddimsNetflix's Shirley: Honoring the Legacy and Power of Shirley ChisholmSend 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 step back and scrutinize the political environment depicted in the film, drawing stark parallels to the issues that...2024-05-0847 minReels & RiddimsPon di Replay: Live Episode Recording | Recap & CatchupsSend 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 television show renewals, feeling the pinch of uncertainty that grips our favorite shows. We encourage ou...2024-04-2021 minReels & RiddimsRiddims: A Night with the Marley Brothers at the Traffic Jam ConcertSend 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: @reelsandriddims on Instagram Website | YouTube2024-04-0316 minReels & RiddimsThree Little Birds: The Journey of Jamaican Women in 1950s BritainSend 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 exploration of a Jamaican-British tale that speaks to the heart of...2024-03-2755 minReels & RiddimsReels & Riddims: Mid Season Check-inSend 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...2024-03-2103 minReels & RiddimsDissecting the "Bob Marley One Love Movie": A Candid Caribbean Discussion (Part 2)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 highlight the significant, yet often overlooked, contributions of Caribbean stories in mainstream media and deliberate on how the Bob Marley...2024-03-1354 min