Entertainment

Boycott ‘Flight’ – Really?

I haven't gotten a chance to see the Denzel Washington movie "Flight" just yet. So maybe I don't get the reason why the movie is being boycotted by a fellow blogger by the name of Dr. Watkins.

Still, I can't help but ask, "WHY?" Watkins has called for a boycott of the Oscars because he feels that the Academy rewards black actors only when they portray troubled characters.

He says, "The bottom line is simple, if a black person does a good impression of a thief, drug addict, prostitute, maid or athlete, you've got yourself a touchdown. The worst thing you can do, however, is play a role that communicates intelligence, integrity or courage... that's 'not realistic.'"

I don't get it. The guy (Denzel's character) is an airline pilot, right? Isn't that an occupation that requires intelligence? And don't black people have problems in real life just like everybody else? Movies tell stories, right? So what's the problem?

True, the guy is an alcoholic in the movie, but let's be honest, alcoholism is not a "black" issue. It's a human issue. Being a crooked cop as Denzel was in "Training Day" is not a "black" thing, it's a "cop" thing. It just so happened that Denzel played those parts in both of these movies...and he played them well.

Would Dr. Watkins rather that Denzel not get rewarded for a role that deserved to be rewarded? Once upon a time African Americans were looked over for this type of recognition.

I think it's foolish for us to try to stifle the efforts of any actor, especially one who just might be Oscar-worthy. I say, let's find a more important battle to fight.

Memphis Choice Awards

DMAG, LLC will host the 3rd Annual Memphis Choice Awards (MCA) on Nov. 17 at the IMAX Theatre at the Pink Palace Museum, located at 3050 Central Ave. The event begins at 6 p.m., with the green carpet portion starting at 5 p.m.

The event will honor deserving small businesses that are excelling in the greater Memphis region. Its hosted by radio personality Stan Bell and comedienne Mzzz. Kecia.

For more information, contact Landy Williams or Marcia Hemphill at 901-729-7955 or email them at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

HBCU hoops

Check out Xavier, Wiley Concordia and other colleges as they take it to the hoop for the 2nd Annual Memphis HBCU Classic, Nov. 23-24 at Southwest Tennessee Community College located at 737 Union Avenue. Tickets are $6 per day or $10 for both days. Ages 5 and under are free. And don't forget about the Food Bank Bash featuring Roxanne Shante and legendary DJ Spinderella! It takes place on that Saturday night at the Hard Rock Café at 315 Beale Street. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $15 and benefits the Memphis Food Bank! For more information, visit www.memphishbcuhoopsclassic.com

DOWNTOWN MYRON

R&B and Onix

If you can't wait until Friday and you're looking for something to do before the week's end, you might want to check out Onix at 412 South Main on Thursdays. In addition to 3 for 1 drinks and other food specials, you can enjoy the R&B sounds of local musician Devin Crutcher and Gemini. For more information, call 901-522-4609.

Brinson's open mic

Hypelife Melting Pot Artist Showcase presents Spoken Word Open Mic Thursdays at Brinson's from 8 p.m. until midnight. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show starts at 8 p.m. Free admission before 9 p.m., and $5 afterwards. For more information, call 901-503-3242 or reach out to Darius Clayton on Twitter @phatmakpoet.

Parting shot

There's still time left to participate in Downtown Dining Week. If you've wanted to check out such restaurants as Chez Phillipe, The Majestic Grille or The Rendezvous, here's your chance. Go to www.downtowndiningweek.com and prepare your appetite. Perhaps, I'll see yout. Until then, that's what's happening!

PS: Happy Birthday to Ms. Helen Harris and Jacqui Green!

(If there is an event you'd like for me to cover or attend, email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )