What To Watch In August? Reel Black Releases Is Here!
Another new month is here and The Reel Effect has you covered with new black television shows and movies coming out in the month of August. Every month we give you a full list of new content so make sure you sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss out!
Johnsons - 8/1 - Bounce TV
Executed produced by comedian and actor Cedric The Entertainer, Johnsons is a new series that premieres Sunday August 1st at 8/7c. The series is about life-long best friends who share the same last name. They navigate love, friendship, heartbreak and personal growth together. The series stars Thomas Jones, Philip Smithey, Derrex Brady, and Deji LaRay.
Suicide Squad 2 - 8/6 - HBO Max
Based on the DC comics, Suicide Squad is about the government sending the most dangerous supervillains in the world -- Bloodsport, Peacemaker, King Shark, Harley Quinn and others -- to the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese. They trek through the dangerous jungle on a search-and-destroy mission, with only Col. Rick Flag on the ground to make them behave. It was written and directed by James Gunn and stars an ensemble cast including Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena, Joel Kinnaman, Sylvester Stallone, Viola Davis, David Dastmalchian, Daniela Melchior, Michael Rooker, Jai Courtney, Peter Capaldi, Alice Braga, and Pete Davidson.
Ailey - 8/6 - PBS and Movie Theaters
This beautifully produced documentary tells the story of Alvin Ailey, world renowned dancer, choreographer, activist, and founder of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Through Ailey’s life journey we hear never before heard audio interviews of Ailey narrating his childhood, career, and life struggles. The documentary gives us an intimate peak inside the life of not only a talented artist but a Black, gay man trying to find the balance of art, life, and love.
“Ailey” premieres nationwide on August 6, and will also air on PBS American Masters, check your local listings for more information.
The Hype - 8/6 - HBO Max
The worlds of streetwear, business and culture collide! THE HYPE features ten streetwear professionals who will compete in challenges to prove they can talk the talk and deliver the product. Every episode will offer unique tips and takeaways about the intricacies of designing, the business of fashion and the savvy it takes to identify the latest trends. At the end of eight episodes the winner earns $100,000!
The show is hosted by Chris “Speedy” Morman judges include rapper and fashion designer, Quavo, Emmy winning costume designer and stylist Marni Senofonte, and Bephie Birkett, who co-owned streetwear megastore Union.
Beckett - 8/13 - Netflix
Starring John David Washington in this action, thriller he plays as an American tourist who is on a vacation in Greece with his girlfriend when an unexpected car accident happens taking her life. Washington's character, Beckett, ends up stranded in Greece and goes on a life threatening journey trying to find his way back to America.
Free Guy - 8/13 - Movie Theaters
Free Guy includes a star studded cast with Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer, Channing Tatum and the hilarious Lil Rel Howery. In a world with no rules, a bank teller discovers he's actually a background player in an open-world video game, he decides to become the hero of his own story.
Respect - 8/13 - Movie Theaters
Following the rise of Aretha Franklin, this true story shows the journey of the Queen of Soul finding her voice. Starring Jennifer Hudson as Aretha, alongside Marlon Wayans as Aretha's husband and manager, Ted White, this musical drama shows Aretha's life from a child singing in her father's church choir to her international superstardom.
She Ball - 8/16 - On Demand and Select Movie Theaters
Written by Nick Cannon and Glenda L. Richardson, this film was also directed by and stars the Wild N Out creator. Cannon plays Avery Watts a man trying to save his neighborhoods community center in Inglewood, California. He enlists a talented basketball player to help him win the grand prize in a street ball tournament. Together, they challenge politicians, gangs and stereotypes to save their community. The movie stars Chris Brown, Cedric The Entertainer, Luenell, Rosa Acosta, and DJ Young Fly.
Nine Perfect Strangers - 8/18 - Hulu
Based on the 2018, New York Times best-selling book by author Liane Moriarty, "Nine Perfect Strangers" takes place at a boutique health-and-wellness resort that promises healing and transformation as nine stressed city dwellers try to get on a path to a better way of living. Watching over them during this 10-day retreat is the resort's director, Masha, a woman on a mission to reinvigorate their tired minds and bodies. However, these nine "perfect" strangers have no idea what is about to hit them. The dramatic series includes Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Regina Hall, Luke Evans, Tiffany Boone, Melvin Gregg, and many more.
Sweet Girl - 8/20 - Netflix
Starring Jason Mamoa and Isebela Mercad this action packed movie will keep you on your toes. A father goes a hunt for justice after losing his wife to cancer because the pharmaceutical company pulled a new drug that could have saved her life. This film was directed by Brian Andrew Mendoza in his feature directorial debut and written by Philip Eisner and Gregg Hurwitz.
Hit And Run - 8/20 - Netflix
A man searching for the truth behind his wife's death becomes caught up in a dangerous web of secrets and intrigue stretching from New York to Tel Aviv, Israel. The film stars Lior Raz, Kaelen Ohm, Sanaa Lathan, and Moran Rosenblatt.
Family Reunion Part 4 - 8/26 - Netflix
Family matters bring the McKellans closer together as new relationships, unexpected obstacles and a milestone birthday lead to major life lessons. Starring Loretta Devine as M'Dear, Richard Roundtree as Grandpa, Tia Mowry-Hardict as Coco, Anthony Alabi as Moz, along with the families youngest bunch Talia Jackson as Jade, Isaiah Russell-Bailey as Shaka, Cameron J. Wright as Mazzi, and Jordyn Raya James as Ami
Candyman - 8/27 - Movie Theaters
In present day, a decade after the last of the Cabrini towers were torn down, Anthony and his partner move into a loft in the now gentrified Cabrini. A chance encounter with an old-timer exposes Anthony to the true story behind Candyman. Anxious to use these macabre details in his studio as fresh grist for paintings, he unknowingly opens a door to a complex past that unravels his own sanity and unleashes a terrifying wave of violence. This modern day remake stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Teyonah Parris, Colman Domingo, Vanessa Williams, with reprising roles from Vanessa Estelle Williams and Tony Todd.
Vacation Friends - 8/27 - Hulu
Marcus (Lil Rel Howry) and Emily (Yvonne Orji) enjoy an unusual week without inhibitions when they meet new friends on vacation, but they are horrified when Ron (Jon Cena) and Kyla (Meredith Hagner) show up uninvited to their wedding.