Fair Shake Reaction: RNSSNC - Penomeco

RNSSNC - Penomeco

(Genre: Krap/Kr&b)

Welcome to the Renaissance below:

KK (Music Video)

EGGE (Music Video)

EGGE (Live Performance)

RealPelmx Reaction (to KK)

Erika Justine Reaction (to EGGE)

Coco Bottle (Music Video)

BM5's October 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Videos

Ex Machina - Yves

Yves has been on a tear ever since she debuted as a soloist under Paix Per Mil. With the deluxe version of Soft Error, came an extra single called, "Ex Machina". This beautiful track let's Yves' vocals soar and lilt over this acoustic guitar focused tune was paired with a video that could break hearts. It symbolically depicts how relationships can lead to each other's destruction if toxic behavior and dependence is able to run wild. What do we call that? Pure cinema! Please check out this masterpiece for yourself if you haven't already.

Lost and Found - Xdinary Heroes

Xdinary Heroes have become a band that I truly feel I need to cherish more and more with each release. This music video is full proof of that. The message in this one hits so hard with that longing to keep that passion or love for something that seemed to get away from you. It hit me hard, while still making me want to sing along at the top of my lungs...and I don't know Korean like that. Haha. This month's music video shares may make me seem like an emotional mess, but when it moves you, it moves you. Does it do the same for you?

Favorite Documentary

The YouTuber Who Made a Real Anime. - Gigguk

Every longtime fan of anime always wonders, "What if I could make my own anime one day?" Few people have been able to make that a reality, at least those from outside of Japan. This journey was documented for the longtime anime YouTuber Gigguk, and it showed how stressful it truly is to make that dream a reality. It's amazing to even get the opportunity, but as he chronicles what it took to get it to a standard he could accept while capturing his heritage, his personal story, and expressing the appropriate emotions, you see how challenging it can be. For anyone who loves to see the behind the scenes for even a "small" project like this or wants to draw closer to the man behind the channel, Garnt, I highly suggest giving this a watch.

Full October 2025 playlist: click here

Fair Shake Reaction: J - Jaehyun

J - Jaehyun

(Genre: Kpop)

More Jaehyun for your initial enjoyment:

Smoke (Music Video)

Dandelion & Roses (Music Video)

Can't Get You (Live Performance)

The Report Card Reaction (to Smoke)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Dandelion & Roses)

Fair Shake Reaction: Day & Night - Fifty Fifty

Day & Night - Fifty Fifty

(Genre: Kpop)

The related videos available day & night:

Pookie (Music Video)

Pookie (Dance Practice)

Midnight Special (Music Video)

Day & Night (Unplugged Performance)

Adrey Reaction (to Pookie)

Perfect Crime Trailer

Fair Shake Reaction: SecretHimitsuBimil - tripleS hatch!

SecretHimitsuBimil - tripleS hatch!

(Genre: Jpop)

Shhh...there's some secrets down below:

Password (Music Video)

Untitled (Music Video)

Untitled (Dance Practice)

Jojobas Reacts (to Password)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Untitled)

Fair Shake Reaction: Hot - Le Sserafim

Hot - Le Sserafim

(Genre: Kpop)

These hot links are ready to check out:

Hot (Music Video)

Hot (Dance Practice)

Come Over (Music Video)

Come Over (Showcase Performance)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Hot MV)

FiFiZappaReacts (to Come Over)

Fair Shake Reaction: Jewell Ave John 3 - Stik Figa

Jewell Ave John 3 - Stik Figa

(Genre: Rap/Hip Hop)

More Stik Figa for your mind:

Jewell Ave John 3 (Album Playlist)

Fair Shake Reaction: Couch Time - Str8jakkett x Spoken Thought

Couch Time - Str8jakkett x Spoken Thought

(Genre: Hip Hop/Rap)

Join them on the couch:

Rap Life (Music Video/Vlog)

Dime a Dozen (Music Video)

Forces of Nature (Music Video)

So Be It - Clipse (Spoken Thought Remix)

BM5's September 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Video

Shotty - Hyolyn

Ahhhh, Hyolyn has done it again. She came back with a danced focused music video on that R&B tip. Do you know what that means? The attitude is present, the choreo is fierce, and the body...is bodying! This mug produced by the Stereotypes bangs to a level we've needed from Hyolyn for some time after a few summery tunes. Hyolyn's vocals are still on point and so sultry. I think you'll be hard pressed taking your eyes off the screen, no matter who you are. Cause she's not your story!

Favorite Rap Single

Yeah Wynne - Wynne

When I saw this drop in my subscriptions, like every time I see Wynne pop up, I got excited. When I heard the beat after pressing play, I thought, "Oh snap! She's killing other people's beats again!" Glorilla would be proud to hear what Wynne brought to the instrumental. She came with her trademark cool demeanor and witty wordplay along with cheeky finesse. This was just the beginning of what would become a true mixtape for the fans. I couldn't be more excited to listen and to share with all of you.

Favorite Cover

Armageddon (Jazz Version) - ReacttotheK

I always love it when the classical and jazz musicians from this channel put their own spin on kpop songs. Thus, when I saw that they did one of my favorite songs of last year, I was beyond ecstatic! Their cool twist on the track made me giddy inside with the mix of staying true to the composition and adding their own flair at the right moments. If you have never heard one of this channel's covers, I would happily recommend this being one of your first ones. I wonder how Aespa feels about this version...

Full September 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

Fair Shake Reaction: First Time's the Charm 2.0 - Alan Z

First Time's the Charm 2.0 - Alan Z

(Genre: R&B/Hip Hop)

The charm is accessible below:

Demon Slayer (Performance Video)

Good Enough (Performance Video)

Libra Energy (Performance Video)

Pull Up (Lyric Video)

Touch and Go (Music Video)

TheImpactPlay Interview (@ Momocon 2025)

Fair Shake Reaction: Growing Pain pt. 1 : Free - Young Posse

Growing Pain pt. 1 : Free - Young Posse

(Genre: Kpop)

Feel free to get your Young Posse fix:

Freestyle (Music Video)

Freestyle (Dance Practice)

YSSR (Music Video)

YSSR (Choreography Video)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Freestyle)

itsANDYandJAS Reaction (to Freestyle)

Adrey Reaction (to Growing Pain pt. 1)

Fair Shake Reaction: - idntt

<unevermet> - idntt

(Genre: Kpop)

If unevermet these videos, here's your chance:

You Never Met (Music Video)

Storm (Music Video)

BOYtude (Music Video)

FiFiZappaReacts (to You Never Met, Storm, & BOYtude)

Johan Moon Reaction (to You Never Met, Storm, & BOYtude)

The Structure (Teaser for idntt)

Fair Shake Reaction: Whiplash - Aespa

Whiplash - Aespa

(Genre: Kpop)

Links to give you whiplash:

Whiplash (Music Video)

Whiplash (Dance Practice)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Whiplash MV)

Jordan Orme Reaction (to Whiplash MV)

FiFiZappaReacts (to Whiplash MV)

Fair Shake Reaction: Odd-Venture - MCND

Odd-Venture - MCND

(Genre: Kpop)

Get your tickets to the Odd-Venture:

Odd-Venture (Music Video)

Odd-Venture (Choreography Video)

Pop Star (Music Video)

FiFiZappaReacts (to Odd-Venture MV)

The Report Card Reaction (to Odd-Venture MV)

Fair Shake Reaction: Cold - Young Posse

Cold - Young Posse

(Genre: Kpop)

Don't leave these links in the Cold:

Cold (Music Video)

Cold (Performance Video)

Blue Dot (Music Video)

Blue Dot (Dance Practice)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Cold MV)

itsANDYandJAS Reaction (to Cold MV)

BM5's August 2025 Favorites

Favorite Debut

BOYtude - idntt

Well, Modhaus did it again. They said, "We're going to do a boy group version of tripleS, with 24 members and interchangeable subunit members. Let's show you our first unit with 3 title tracks. You'll love it!" Dang gone it! They were right!!! This group pronounced like "identity" came with the subunit "unevermet" with 3 title tracks on a 6 song EP that is captivating from start to finish. But I had to share the one title track that I voted for, and that won the fan voting process (gravity), as the super title track. It's smooth vibe is to die for. Get that fantastic production and songwriting into your eardrum one time.

Favorite Video Game Discussion

Tekken Fan Teaches You How to Enjoy Tekken - Awkward Jump

As a fan of the series from its inception, Tekken has been a series dear to me for a long time. Therefore, I'm not necessarily the target audience for this video. Yet, the way that Awkward Jump (who's channel is actually reference to this game) describes their affection for this game is exactly how I'd like to present it. I know video games aren't always what we discuss here, but this is still one of the favorites that I had to highlight. Especially since whenever I'm thinking of fighting games, the first series I think of is Tekken. Sorry SF fanboys...

Favorite TV Discussion

Living Single Cast Reveal What Most Fans Never Figured Out - Retrogrooves

Growing up, there were a few sitcoms that would frequent the television screen with my mom. Living Single was one of those series. Little did I know that its impact was far grander than I could have realized, until my adult years. This video is a grand overview on the creation, effect, and hardships the sitcom had to endure over its multiple seasons. It made me appreciate it that much more. In fact, it made me discover that reliving the series at my age is something I need to do as soon as possible. Maybe you'll feel the same after this video essay.

Full August 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

Fair Shake Reaction: Rise Waves - Giuk

Rise Waves - Giuk

(Genre: Kpop/Krock)

This content made waves:

Scratch (Music Video)

Overtake (Live Performance)

My Blue (Music Video)

Birb Reaction (to Scratch)

LTKpop Reaction (to Scratch)

Quick Movie Review - February 2025 Pt. 2

The Jazz Singer (1927, USA) | Rating: 2.5/5
I believe this is just a film school staple, because I only saw a clip of this when I was in college. I assume it's used for the introduction of the talkie, then leads into the classic musical Singin' in the Rain, which adds some color to film. While I understand the significance of this film in cinematic history, a lot of people watching it with modern eyes are not going to be in awe of the technologic advances. To no one's surprise, this movie doesn't hold up to the test of time. Of course if you ignore the blackface, you can kinda appreciate how impressive sound was for its time and the story. Granted...the blackface is hard to ignore. According to some Letterboxd comments, the 1980's remake starring Neil Diamond still includes the offense. I haven't seen it nor do I want to, but I might entertain the idea in the future.



The Brother from Another Planet (1984, USA) | Rating: 3.5/5
This movie was mentioned in Entertainment Weekly's 2022 Black History edition as they explore different facets of Black cinema in various categories. I also used it for my Film Diversity Challenge in the sci-fi category. It was a title that I have heard of here and there, but I didn't know much about. Unfortunately, as I am writing this, I have yet to read the aforementioned magazine in its entirety, but watching it was quite the experience. The content of the film is still sadly relavent and the creative liberities they took with the cinematography and editing made certain situations really stand out.


Neptune Frost (2021, Rwanda) | Rating: 3.5/5
Something I never thought I would see is a movie from Rwanda that is executive produced by Lin-Manuel Miranda (and Ezra Miller). This sci-fi film had piqued my interest since its release and I was excited it was included in Kanopy's library. This (queer) afro-futuristic movie showcases some amazing visuals and some impressive musical moments. The story kept my interest for the most part, but it definitely has its imperfections and caused me a little confusion here and there. Thank God for Wikipedia! It was quite the unique journey bouncing between the different timelines and plot points. I'm surprised not many people talk about it, because it was worth checking out for sure.


The Exorcist: Believer (2023, USA) | Rating: 2/5
I have only seen The Exorcist, but I have plans to watch the third installment in the near future and most likely skip The Exorcist: Heretic. I say this to give you an idea that I am familiar with the franchise to some extent. When I saw the trailer for this movie, it looked promising and I'm sure many other people thought the same. The presentation was there, but the execution was not. There were so many good ideas that ended up falling to the way side or didn't go anywhere. The cameo was a waste, just like previous legacy movie camoes (i.e. Texas Chainsaw Massacre and The Craft Legacy). I was really hoping that the fans were wrong about this one, but I have to side with them. I think they should've leaned more into the girls being missing and divert from the usual tropes of researching or bringing someone who has experienced it. I don't know...perhaps they needed to scrap the whole idea. Either way, this was quite a let down.


Memento Mori (1999, South Korea) | Rating: 3.5/5
The second installment in the Whispering Corridors series and one that I own. I unknowningly started this loosely connected series with its third film, The Wishing Stairs, and decided to start at the beginning properly. While I don't have much to say about the first movie, the second had a gay element thrown into the mix. By the way, Whispering Corridors was an enjoyable watch, in case you want to see it or were curious on my thoughts. The second movie stood out a little more. There's a somewhat secret relationship between the girls, but perhaps there's a misunderstanding of feelings as well. South Korea being a conservative country on top of it being in the late 90s, homosexuality was still taboo in some ways. So, the story added bullying, a secret diary, and revenge with supernatural elements. It's kinda hard to describe it in some ways, but it felt familiar and spooky.


Monster House (2006, USA) | Rating: 3/5
To my surprise, I've heard some pretty good things about this movie on a few Halloween lists. I watched this for a movie challenge for the first time and...it was alright. The animation is definitely of its time, but the story was entertaining enough to keep my interest and hopefully the interests of children. It does have some good scares for kiddos and I found a couple moments quite creepy at times. Despite my enjoyment, I don't think this would be a movie I would want to watch during spooky season every year, but I'm glad I took some time to watch it.



Stay Alive (2006, USA) | Rating: 3/5
Another movie of its time and remembered for its "if you die in the game, you die in real life" plot. Going into this movie, I had no idea that I would run into Frankie Muniz of Malcolm in the Middle fame, but it was good to see him in something; granted the movie was 18 years old at the time of viewing. Its definitely another cheesy, but enjoyble horror product of the 2000s and I understand why it has a somewhat cult following for it. As goofy as it is, I did enjoy watching these friends navigating a game virtually and in real life.


Cry_Wolf (2005, USA) | Rating: 2.5/5
And then there's this movie, in which I paired with the previous as it had a similar theme of a friend group and technology. This was also a product of its time, but for the worse. It's definitely possesses that 2000's cheesiness and the story's execution was...interesting. The movie lays out the rules for us only for it to hand us a conclusion that kinda doesn't make any sense with the character's motive. While the slasher element was decent, it was the finale that kinda killed my enjoyment.


The Last Circus (2010, Spain) | Rating: 3/5
This challenge entry was one of three entries that was chosen by the original poster. I didn't know what to expect, but I enjoy watching foreign films that aren't under my radar. While I wasn't overwhelmingly in love with this film, it did leave a positive impression on me with its story and characters. The story follows Javier who hasn't had the best of luck in life, but finds the silverlining in his new job when he crosses paths with a beautiful and compassionate trapeze artists. Predictably, she is dating the movie's antagonist and things become very dramatic. I enjoyed the bit of humor in the story and the horror elements that are threaded throughout this familiar formula.


The Funhouse (1981, USA) | Rating: 3/5
Per Hooptober Challenge rules, I have to watch a movie by the late, great Tobe Hooper and I try my best to pick something I haven't seen. This was a title I've heard about here and there and this challenge gave me an opportunity to check it out. I paired this movie with the previous movie above and I had the same general feeling for both. I enjoyed the simple and familiar story. It definitely had that Hooper flair to some of the kills and the spectacle of the killers, which reflects a little from his more well known title Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Sometimes murder is a family affair. One thing that held me back from liking it just half a point more is the unfinished subplot with the little brother. Otherwise, a pretty enjoyable flick!

If there's something you want me to review, check out Muddy Cult's Patreon on how to submit requests.

2024: The Highlights

Fair Shake Reaction: D.I.M.M. - VVS

D.I.M.M - VVS

(Genre: Kpop)

There's diamonds in these links:

D.I.M.M. (Music Video)

Tea (Music Video)

Fact$ (Choreography Video)

Purrfect (Music Video)

The Report Card Reaction (to D.I.M.M.)

Fair Shake Reaction: Orange Blood - Enhypen

Orange Blood - Enhypen

(Genre: Kpop)

Orange you glad I gave you more content:

Sweet Venom (Music Video)

Sweet Venom (Dance Practice)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Sweet Venom)

itsANDYandJAS Reaction (to Sweet Venom)

ReacttotheK Reaction (to Sweet Venom)

Fair Shake Reaction: Sweet Tang - ifeye

Sweet Tang - ifeye

(Genre: Kpop)

For those craving that sweet tang, look below:

r u ok? (Music Video)

r u ok? (Choreography Video)

Friend Like Me (Performance Video)

The Report Card Reaction (to r u ok?)

Adrey Reaction (to r u ok?)

BM5's July 2025 Favorites

Favorite Dance Performance

It's Morphkin Time - The Kinjaz

Man, I feel like it's been ages since I've gotten to share purely a dance video. Kinjaz, man, always come through with some amazing moves! They sometimes like to do it with style too. This time they do it with comedy! Growing up on Power Rangers made this a super fun and nostalgic watch. Yet, as usual, the Kinjaz were able to never skip out on flawless technique and fun grooves for the audience to enjoy. So that's what I want you to do. Click above and enjoy this!

Favorite Music Discussion

Why the Industry Tried to Stop the Greatest Rapper of All Time - F. D. Signifier

Hopefully, what's listed above is still the title of this video. F.D. loves to change it up along with his thumbnails every so often. Either way, this is a big video essay all about Lupe Fiasco! I'm a HUGE Lupe fan, and seeing this pop up on my subscriptions was quite the treat. It's a great look into the career of the artist along with a bit of his upbringing. If you're unaware, as an emcee, Lupe Fiasco truly is one of the best to ever do it, but he's struggled to be respected in all demographics as such. This gives you the reason why, while giving him his flowers and criticisms equally. For my hip hop heads, this is for you!

Favorite Comeback

r u ok? - ifeye

There have been sooo many great comebacks this month, from kpop giants to the scene's underdogs. Though, this is one of the groups I never expected to sweep me off my feet. Ifeye debuted earlier this year and I was pleased with it. I certainly found them likable, but I didn't think they may release one of my favorite songs of the year with their follow up. R U Ok? comes with such a fun and upbeat energy that compels me to bounce from beginning to end. Then when you pair that with the choreography and their impressive presence, you've got an addictive experience. Please, oh please give these new ladies a chance and pray they don't slide into nugudom!

Full July 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

Fair Shake Reaction: Erlu Blue - ifeye

Erlu Blue - ifeye

(Genre: Kpop)

Don't be blue; keep your eye on these:

Nerdy (Music Video)

Nerdy (Dance Practice)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Nerdy)

Adrey Reaction (to Nerdy)

allkpop Interview

Fair Shake Reaction: First Howling : Now - &Team

First Howling : Now - &Team

(Genre: Jpop)

Now, I have more links to the first howling:

War Cry (Music Video)

War Cry (Dance Practice)

Dropkick (Music Video)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to War Cry)

Jeff Avenue Reaction (to War Cry & Drop Kick)

BM5's Korea/Waterbomb 2025 Trip!

 Full Recap Playlist

Pure Concert Footage:

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

BM5's June 2025 Favorites

Favorite Live Performance

Day & Night: Unplugged Live - Fifty Fifty

When I tell you that these girls can sing, I mean that these girls can sing and I have the proof. This unplugged version of their latest EP was such a treat to the eardrums. The songs themselves are already quite enjoyable, but to be able to pair it with their live vocals accompanied with live instrumentation is such a treat. I couldn't help but share this with you, if you haven't had the chance to do so yet. I'd stop wasting time though! Click it now!

Favorite Rap Single

So Be It - Clipse

For my hip hop heads out there, I'm sure you need no convincing to check this out. Matter of fact, you probably already knew of this glorious return of the mighty Clipse duo! "Ace Trumpets" was the first release with simply a lyric video, but this second release with the full blown visuals is a delicacy. Some of the slickest bad guy, drug dealer talk paired with the black & white scenes amongst luxury. All of this laid over the most menacing instrumental prepared from Pharrell as the foundation! This is comeback season and Clipse are taking no prisoners. Even Travis Scott caught some shots on this one. You don't want to miss this!

Favorite Interview

XV - The Fully Connected Podcast

If you don't know about XV, then this will show you how close he was to having that be the complete opposite. Growing up as a fellow emcee in Kansas, I had become aware of XV from Wichita as he was becoming one of the most promising rappers from the state. He's crossed paths with some of the biggest names in the industry, but sometimes things don't go the way you expect. His journey was incredible to hear him chronicle in this interview. And even though he's still continuing his career that can reach new heights, I advise you take the time to learn more about the kid with the green backpack now.

Full June 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

Quick Movie Reviews - February 2025 Pt. 1

Luther: Never Too Much (2024, USA) | Rating: 4.5/5
I was so happy that AMC brought this movie back in theaters for Black History Month. I'm not the biggest of Luther fans, but I grew up with his music like most Black kids. Much like George Michael's Freedom, I wanted to learn more about the legendary singer and this documentary did a fantastic job. The documentary mentioned the basics of his childhood and how he got into the entertainment business, then it went into detail with all the other iconic singers he worked for before becoming a star himself. There was commentary from other celebrities who elaborated on his influence and talent as well. Learning about the backstories behind some of the songs he wrote for himself and others was absolutely fascinating! The movie did touch on his struggles, of course, which included his difficult relationship with food and his sexual preferences. It was later aired on Oprah's OWN channel, so definitely keep an eye out for encore showings.



Love Me (2024, USA) | Rating: 3.5/5
Maja and I saw this unique, sci-fi love story starring Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun in the theater, during its limited release run. Maja was a little confused on the premise or perhaps the story, but found it to be a decent watch. I gave it a little grace with what the message of the movie was trying to say. This movie isn't just a simple romance between a high-tech buoy and satellite in the future, but an examination of our perception of ourselves (or our lives) and how its filtered through technology. While the movie does have its flaws in pacing and a bit in execution, I can't help but admire such an original idea that I thought would be too close to Wall-E.


Beans (2020, Canada) | Rating: 4.5/5
I want to thank Hulu for giving me the extra push (i.e. the movie was expiring from my list) to watch this. I went in blind; only knowing that I had to have added this to my list because it had an interesting story...and I was right! The movie follows an Indigenous family in 90's Quebec and the discrimination they faced. While I am aware of some countries having their terrible past when it comes to Indigenous people like the U.S. and New Zealand, I had no idea that a similar problem happened in Canada. Seeing this movie through a child's point of view kept my interest to the very end. I was very invested in their fight and survival to the point that it made me upset. Canada isn't the polite utopia some of us think it is; they have and still have their flaws as well.

Wolf Man (2025, USA) | Rating: 3/5
I absolutely loved Leigh Whannell's take on the classic Invisible Man and I had high hopes for his interpretation of this Universal Monster. It didn't quite hit the same highs, but it still managed to be enjoyable and engaging. I appreciate that he was trying to add his own mark on such a classic movie which I have seen. I enjoyed the point of view we were offered, the subplot with the family dynamics, and creative visuals of the titual character's transformation. I wasn't disappointed like some of Whannell's fans, but I will admit that I didn't enjoy it as much as the previous Universal remimagining or even his underrated gem Upgrade. Although, I do look forward to rewatching it with a slightly new prespective.


Under the Shadow (2016, UK) | Rating: 3.5/5 I don't watch too many Farsi movies, especially horror ones, so this was a fun little ride. This movie brought some interesting war/political elements and mixed it with some Middle Eastern folklore. While watching this movie, certain beats and imagery reminded me of Dark Water and The Babadook. I enjoyed the execution of a mother and daughter trying to survive not only a hostile environment due to war, but through a malevolent spirit tormenting them in a place that should be safe and comforting.


Marwencol (2010, USA) | Rating: 3.5/5
After watching Welcome to Marwen in 2018, I saw the streaming service Kanopy highlighting this documentary. Fast forwad some years later, I finally decided to watch it while I was cleaning my room. While this wasn't an ideal room cleaning movie, it was fascinating to hear and watch the real story of Mark Hogankamp which Steve Carrell portrays in the movie adaptation. Not only does this little documentary delve into Hogankamp's backstory and struggles, it also explores his hobby of recreating his life and the prominent people in it through various dolls. While a veteran collecting and repurposing dolls might seem odd, his story easily garners sympathy and understanding from its viewers. Eventually, I would love to rewatch the movie version to fully connect the dots between these two mediums.



Bones (2001, USA) | Rating: 2/5
A movie I've heard of, but never had the desire to watch it. Only reason I took the time of day to check it out was because a co-worker recommended it to me. So, I used this film as a challenge entry. So...the movie was definitely of its time and was amusing because of that. It was nice to see something else Katherine Isabelle, Bianca Lawson, Khalil Kain, and Pam Grier was in. As for the main attraction, Mr. Snoop Dogg...he exists. My expectations were very low going in and they were met. It's a very 2000s movie that revolves around this feared pimp persona Snoop has played around with in his past rap career. I don't feel like I missed anything not seeing it as a kid, but it was better than Blood Pageant.


Nicole (2019, USA) | Rating: 3/5
I'm guilty of judging a movie by its cover and I honestly thought this would be a low budget horror that's laughably bad or simply forgettable. I was proven wrong, which is nice to find out. This was more of a dark comedy of a young woman on a date that goes completely wrong in the most interesting and darkly hilarious way. It's a very simple movie and the choice to film it in black and white kinda enhanced the experience in some way. I don't know what the budget was, but I felt like this simple story was pretty effective. It wasn't anything mindblowing, but sadly there's not too many horror movies with Black casts that aren't goofy, for lack of a better word. Definitely give this movie a watch if you're looking for something not too scary, but still horror.


Liberated: The New Sexual Revolution (2017, USA) | Rating: 3/5
I'm always intrigued by documentaries about sex and how we interact with the subject matter. This was a documentary that followed a bunch of college kids on spring break and their views on hook-up culture and the like. It does have some talking head moments with some experts in between the footage of college dudes being college dudes. *rolls eyes* It does scratch a little more than the surface when it comes to sexual assault situations that happen during these "liberating" trips. While you don't always have to like the subjects you follow in documentaries, it does help a little bit or at least understand their thinking in some kind of sympathetic way. The documentary does display the misogyny and raunchiness that we already know, but it doesn't say enough about it and how to counteract these behaviors. I wasn't upset watching it like some Letterboxd users, but simply indifferent. It definitely could've said more about the consequences or offer ways to unlearn certain behaviors.


Beloved (1998, USA) | Rating: 3.5/5 Although I haven't reviewed it here, I had a feeling this movie would give a similar atmosphere to Eve's Bayou. It's a Black film that I've heard throughout my life as an important one to watch in Black Cinema. This movie is based on Toni Morrison's novel of the same title and I can't compare the two here at the moment as I haven't taken the time to read it. My co-worker, who was reading it at the time I saw this movie, did mention a little confusion with the flashback scenes presented in the movie, which gives me a little idea that both mediums have similarities. Perhaps one day, I can give a proper comparison. For now, I can say that I do somewhat understand why people considered this movie a little on the disturbing side. At the same time, I feel like a lot of movies of this era really delved into the trauma of the time period and that can be a lot sometimes. The acting was very convincing and the story definitely kept me invested, despite the lengthy runtime. There were a couple moments where I hope the book expands on as the movie did make a few details a bit confusing with its presentation. I'm really glad I finally took the time to watch this movie for the first time during Black history month; it made me a little more interested in reading the source material.

If there's something you want me to review, check out Muddy Cult's Patreon on how to submit requests.

Fair Shake Reaction: Club Icarus - ARTMS

Club Icarus - ARTMS

(Genre: Kpop)

Welcome to the Club:

Icarus (Music Video - Cinematic Ver.)

Burn (Music Video)

FiFiZappaReacts (to Icarus Club Ver.)

Hidye1 Reaction/Analysis (to Icarus Cinematic Ver.)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to Burn)

Club Icarus (Album Visualizer)

Fair Shake Reaction: 224 - Kiss of Life

224 - Kiss of Life

(Genre: Kpop)

click here

Here's the 411 on 224:

Lips Hips Kiss (Music Video)

Lips Hips Kiss (Dance Practice)

k bye (Music Video)

LKTV Reaction (to Lips Hips Kiss)

Mind of Mando Reaction (to k bye)

Fair Shake Reaction: Fe3O4 : Forward - NMIXX

Fe3O4 : Forward - NMIXX

(Genre: Kpop)

Links to push you forward as an NSWER:

Know About Me (Music Video)

High Horse (Performance Video)

Papillon (Performance Video)

FiFiZappaReacts (to Know About Me)

ReacttotheK Reaction (to High Horse & Slingshot)

BM5's May 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Discussion

Why DJs Play "Old Songs" More Than Current Music - Steezy

This was a fun watch because it was nice to hear what a DJ's explanation of this phenomena is. When you look at the landscape of the music scene and how quickly music can leave the zeitgeist, you can almost come to a similar conclusion as Steezy. The thing that was interesting to hear was just how it affects events where people are gathered for the purpose of dancing to the setlist. Popular music really doesn't have the same reach as it used to, even if it's popular due to the democratization of everyone's listening habits. It's truly fascinating, but better presented in the video above. Why not give it a watch?

Favorite Comeback

Assemble25 - tripleS

I will never tire of tripleS when they always bring a sound that's so captivating. The title track "Are You Alive?" is really eerie, yet driving the piece that continues the trend of catchy "la-la-la's" to the eardrum. While the rest of the tracklist brings more various sounds that the girls are known to deliver from pop-rock, garage, drum n bass, and R&B. So many standout tracks on one project allows me to put the album on repeat for hours without a single skip. This is the perfect follow up to last year's OT24 debut Assemble24.

Favorite Interview

Logic | The Really Good Podcast - Bobbi Althoff

Bobbi, with an "i", is certainly a figure who has brought some controversy with her interview style and how she interacts with a lot of black entertainers. Her deadpan and sometimes disrespectful approach is something she does to most interviewees, regardless of ethnic background, but it always comes off less tactful with those from urban upbringing. Therefore, who knew the perfect match for her would be Bobby, with a "y", who can counter her quick quips and comedy bits with many of his own. He almost takes control of the whole interview making it an interesting watch diving into not only himself, but also Ms. Althoff herself. This definitely turned it into an amusing watch, if I do say so myself.

Full May 2025 Favorites playlist: click here