Realm Lands New York Times Best Selling Writer Charlaine Harris to Pen & Produce New Podcast3/30/2022 Written by John Edward Betancourt Over the course of the past few months, we’ve talked at length about how the Podcast is really transforming the entertainment landscape. In large part because it offers creative minds unparalleled freedom storytelling wise, the kind that blends together the wonder of radio serials of yore with the technology of present day. Allowing for stunning stories to come to life, ones that feature top-tier actors and are written by top-tier writers. Plus, it also doesn’t hurt that this transformative era for podcasting is being driven by visionary companies such as Realm Media. Since they understand the potential of this format and are working hard to take it to a whole new level and they and the future of podcasting are top of mind today, because earlier… Realm made quite the announcement. In that they have signed Charlaine Harris, a New York Times Best Selling Writer, to write and produce a new podcast for their network. And well… that is news that speaks not only to how hard Realm is pushing to create bold new stories in the podcast format, but to how eager they are to tell incredible stories and their track record with podcasts… speaks volumes to the wonders that Charlaine will be allowed to create. So, without further ado, here are all the details on this wonderful announcement, courtesy of Realm. ‘Realm, the audio entertainment company that creates immersive original fiction podcasts and audiobook series, today announced a first-time alliance with best-in-class author Charlaine Harris to pen a to-be-named, multi-episode project set to launch in 2023. The announcement was made by Realm’s CEO and co-founder, Molly Barton. A prolific storyteller known for her ability to create new worlds and who made her mark with The Southern Vampire Mysteries, a provocative series of novels adapted into HBO’s mega-hit “True Blood,” Harris has sold close to 40 million copies over the course of her career as a novelist and is the only author to have ever had nine books at the same time on The New York Times bestseller list. Harris joins an impressive roster of established writers, playwrights,and emerging voices that have joined forces with Realm, a company that will celebrate the year-anniversary of their launch into podcasting this spring. In the coming year, Realm will release several anticipated shows including Power Trip, an original dark comedy podcast starring and executive produced by “Orphan Black” and “She-Hulk” star Tatiana Maslany and Marigold Breach, reuniting “The Good Place” co-stars Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto, which debuted March 28th. Charlaine Harris said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be partnering with Realm on this all-new vampire narrative – although I can’t reveal too much right now, I will say that exploring these myths and legends for a podcast audience is incredibly exciting for me and I look forward to joining the Realm family as we take audio storytelling to new heights.” Molly Barton, CEO and Co-Founder added: “Charlaine is an exceptional storyteller. Her scope of delicious work speaks to her uncanny ability to make audiences revel in the fantastical. We couldn’t be more thrilled that she has chosen Realm as her partner for her podcast debut— and as the place to debut a brand-new vampire story.” In addition to “True Blood,” two other TV series were adapted from works written by Harris — NBC’s “Midnight Texas” and the “Aurora Teagarden” series for Hallmark Movies and Mysteries. Her most recent novel, The Russian Cage, is the third of her Gunnie Rose series and combines elements of sci-fi, mystery and Western to create an alternate history set in a broken-up United States. About Realm Realm produces immersive stories while working with top-tier talent and companies from across the entertainment industry, like Fred Armisen (BLACK FRIDAY); Rory Culkin (OUTLIERS); Tatiana Maslany, Emmy-winning star and EP of the forthcoming POWER TRIP; MARIGOLD BREACH starring Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto; and franchise partners such as DC and Marvel on shows such as WONDER WOMAN: HEARTLESS and BLACK PANTHER: SINS OF THE KING starring Emmy-nominated actor William Jackson Harper. From comedy to horror to sci-fi to thriller, there’s a Realm show for everyone. Since their launch in April 2021, over 80% of Realm shows have reached the top 100 most popular fiction podcasts in the US, with more than 25% reaching the top 10. Realm was co-founded by former Penguin Random House executive Molly Barton and former Obama Administration Dept of Justice lawyer Julian Yap. Realm shows are available as podcasts everywhere, and on the Realm app, awarded “Best of the Year” by Apple. Follow Realm for updates on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. For more information, please visit https://www.realm.fm/. About Charlaine Harris Charlaine Harris is a true daughter of the South. She was born in Mississippi and has lived in Tennessee, South Carolina, Arkansas, and Texas. After years of dabbling with poetry, plays, and essays, her career as a novelist began when her husband invited her to write full time. Her first book, Sweet and Deadly, appeared in 1981. When Charlaine’s career as a mystery writer began to falter, she decided to write a cross-genre book that would appeal to fans of mystery, science fiction, romance, and suspense. She could not have anticipated the huge surge of reader interest in the adventures of a barmaid in Louisiana, or the fact that Alan Ball would come knocking at her door. Since then, Charlaine’s novels have been adapted for several other television series, with two in development now. Charlaine is a voracious reader. She has one husband, three children, two grandchildren, and two rescue dogs. She leads a busy life. www.charlaineharris.com is her website.’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt
It really is quite amazing how far podcasting has come. Because this once niche hobby, went from basements to mainstream seemingly overnight and now anyone that has a desire to get their voice out into the world can do with ease and talk about whatever topic ignites their imagination or their passions. But while that alone is amazing, where the podcast truly shines, is in its ability to tell incredible and unique, and engaging stories.
Because this is the perfect place to experiment with storytelling and assemble adventures that neither books nor visual mediums can contain and one company that leads the way in bringing incredible story-themed podcasts to life is Realm. For they continue to break barriers and bring amazing tales to our headphones and earlier today they informed the world that they are ready to reunite a pair of old friends to star in their latest creation. For it was announced that Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto will star in their new podcast, Marigold Breach, and well… here are all the details on this incredible new show and a trailer to build a little excitement for this engaging tale, courtesy of Realm Media. ‘Realm, the audio entertainment company behind #1 hit fiction podcast Outliers (narrated by Rory Culkin) today released the trailer for “Marigold Breach,” starring the voice talents of “The Good Place” co-stars Jameela Jamil (“She-Hulk”) and Manny Jacinto (“Nine Perfect Strangers”). Described as “The Mandalorian” meets “Her,” “Marigold Breach” takes listeners on a space adventure in which a soldier with no memory must rely on his AI implant to piece together the fragments of his past. The new 8-episode fiction podcast premieres March 31st with weekly releases on all podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Stitcher. “Reuniting old friends has been such a fun element of working with Jameela and Manny on Marigold Breach,” says Molly Barton, CEO and Co-founder of Realm. “Their unique partnership echoes that of Lucan and Ven; hearing them bring these characters to life with such empathy and verve took my breath away.” In “Marigold Breach,” Lucan (Jacinto) has crash landed on a mysterious planet and only remembers his name, his rank, and that Ven (Jamil)---the wry AI implant speaking to him inside his mind—is the only thing keeping him alive. As they search for answers about where they came from, they confront dangerous forces that threaten the safety of the planet’s civilians. But the most urgent threat of all lurks in the recesses of Lucan’s mind, kept hidden by Ven—if she were to reveal it, their relationship would change forever. “The fast-paced action and mystery of Marigold Breach make for an incredibly compelling story, but the true heart of this project is in the unfolding relationship between partners, which is why I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Jameela again,” says Jacinto. Jamil adds: “I hope listeners will be as riveted as I was when I first read Joel Dane’s script. Ven is as complex and fierce a character as they come; bringing her to life in audio is hopefully the first of many iterations this story will have.” Marigold Breach is a Realm Original Production, created and written by Joel Dane (Cry Pilot trilogy). Produced by Diana M. Pho, Fred Greenhalgh, and Hayley Wagreich. Directed by Fred Greenhalgh. Executive produced by Molly Barton and Marci Wiseman, Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto. Marigold Breach is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at Realm.fm’ Trailer for ‘Marigold Breach’Written by John Edward Betancourt It is definitely safe to say that the witch genre of storytelling, has grown a tad stale in the modern era. For these tales tend to be mired in formula through and through and tend to present themselves to audiences by way of three types of stories. Such as a coming-of-age tale where the allure of power is hotly debated or through a lighthearted romp that makes magic whimsical. Or the story is set long ago, when witchcraft was deemed to be a horrible act against God and atrocities were committed in the Lord’s name. Which are formulas that audiences do indeed flock to since they are tried and true and familiar. But alas, that does a disservice to fans of this genre since stagnancy allows for a genre to be forgotten or left behind. But thankfully, there are some creative minds out there, working to revitalize the genre and find a new way forward for the witch in an era where we simply no longer believe in magic in the slightest. And one way that this is happening, is in the world of Podcasts. For Realm is now host to a new podcast series by acclaimed writer Pia Wilson entitled, If I Go Missing the Witches Did It, and this one is of note, simply because it is a revolutionary story, one that truly updates the witch genre for the 21st Century. A feat that this podcast accomplishes by way of several key storytelling elements, one of which, is by offering up a witch story that doesn’t use any of the aforementioned formulas in the slightest. Instead, this particular story is set in present day, and it introduces us to some everyday folks just trying to get by in the world, which is a stroke of genius. Because that puts the listener at ease and allows them to immerse themselves into a world that they are quite curious about. For Jenna Clayton’s decision to spend her summer in Westchester, NY with her boyfriend, brings about all kinds of fascinating moments and observations, which we will get to in a minute. Because what matters more here, is that these moments with Jenna, allow for us to get to know her inside and out. Which in turn attaches us to her, to the point where we are fascinated with her hopes and dreams in life and that… allows for the witchcraft element of the story to outright blindside the listener. Because just like that, it is there, and it is haunting, and you simply must know what comes next because of its arrival and that really is an original twist. Since it presents witchcraft in an organic and palatable manner, and it plays upon our fears of the unknown and the wonder of this podcast, doesn’t end with this unique spin on the genre. For this is also, a supremely cerebral story. One that harkens back to classic horror stories of the 1970s by using Jenna’s situation to offer up a bevy of social commentary on modern society. Because Jenna’s character is African American and by plunging her into Westchester for the summer, the story is able to explore what race relations look like in modern America and the nature of privilege, alongside some thoughts on class and capitalism and its pratfalls. Which are elements that give the audience a lot to chew upon since Pia’s commentary and observations on the matter are unfettered and raw and truly call out some of the major problems of our time that we continue to brush aside in the hopes that they will either go away or that someone else will fix them. Which makes this a poignant and powerful horror story, one that is sold by way of a stellar cast. Because Gabourey Sidibe simply immerses herself into the role of Jenna and she plays her with a zest and zeal that sells every single moment. Lending a powerful sense of realism to this tale and she is complimented nicely by Sarah Natochenny, who brings a unique innocence to her character Elise, an acting decision that allows for more commentary to take place. What kind exactly... well… we won’t spoil that here, in fact, you’ve likely noticed that we’ve said very little about the details of this podcast and with good reason. Because this is the kind of brilliant and engaging story that you need to experience for yourself. So, if you’re looking for a dynamic reinvention of the witch genre of storytelling (or just a great story in general) swing by Realm, and give this fascinating and delightful story a listen. You’ll be glad you did. Written by Shae RufeThere are very few things that bring me more joy that the works of Neil Gaiman, and this is no exception. Gaiman has been a favorite author of mine ever since I picked up his novel Nevermore. I have since gone out of my way to devour his works. When I heard his works were being adapted into Audiobook form, I nearly fainted with excitement. I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but for me, reading long periods is hard. For those who may not know I am legally blind, and while I can and do read normal printed books, I can’t binge read like I want to. The invention of digital books has helped that some and while helpful and amazing, it sometimes is still straining and exhausting. Which is why the audio adaptations have made me so unbelievably happy. I know that audio books are enjoyed by millions of people, as well they should, but for me it has been the best experience. Audio books have allowed me freedom in a way I have always craved. With Gaiman’s audio adaptation of The Sandman I was so much in love and now the second installment’s arrival has made my entire year. I have had a countdown going since it was announced, and if you know me, you know that means I have no patience. Well, the wait is finally over! I have never been happier to announce how amazing this audiobook is. Thank you to Audible for entrusting me with a chance to experience this adventure early, it was such a gift, this was truly an honor. There is something just magical about the casting of the The Sandman: Act II. The voice cast is not just on point, it is as though each actor was made for this role. Kat Dennings as Death is pure magic. She embodies the character so amazingly it’s as though she was born to play this role. Not to mention anytime Michael Sheen and David Tennant are in a project together, you know it’s going to be the best thing ever. Add James McAvoy as Morpheus and an All-Star Cast and this audiobook is the single best audiobook to ever exist. I was blown away by the amount of talent in this. Audiobooks have not only become one of the fastest growing mediums over the past few years, but they have really changed storytelling with the inclusion of so many different voices. Audiobooks are no longer one reader, it’s a whole cast that make a whole show. I think it’s high time that audiobooks get their own award categories during the Emmys or the Oscars. Right, so, what to expect? Well, The Sandman: Act II is a continuation of The Sandman, but it is an adapted collaboration of A Game of You, Season of Mist, and Fables and Reflections. Morpheus is still recovering from his imprisonment but believes he is completely fine, and we start with a family meeting where everyone else disagrees, as families tend to do. And as families also do, they remind Morpheus that he has things he needs to fix, mistakes he made long before he was ever captured, and that he should probably get right on that. Turns out, that, throwing someone into the pits of literal Hell for not dating you is kind of a super, not so good thing. Morpheus realizes this and does go to Hell to retrieve Nada and free her. Just, one, tiny minor issue. Lucifer has decided he no longer wants to rule Hell and lets Morpheus deal with it. Not going to lie, this is probably something I would do too. Also, Michael Sheen as Lucifer is my new favorite anything ever. Add David Tennant as Loki and this is just priceless. Gaiman narrates the work making it all that more special. Really, with Hell now as his problem Morpheus must figure out what to do. Beyond that is the return of episodic chapters that are near standalones. Emma Corrin makes her debut as The Witch Thessaly, Joanna Lumley as Lady Johanna Constantine, Brian Cox as Augustus, Arthur Darvill as William Shakespeare, and Laurence Bohhvard as Barbie, as well as so many more, delve into the world between worlds and a few worlds we know. The episodes or chapters that diverge from the main story of Morpheus focus on everything from historical Rome, England, The French Revolution and so much more. The character development that occurs in the second installment sets up for Act III very nicely. When not falling in love with the story and characters, the visual settings are also stunning. It sounds weird to say visual settings when talking about an audiobook, but it’s completely true. This is so well done that the visual aspect is spot on. It all comes together as one seamless piece while expanding the world we’ve come to know and love. But how does it end? Does Nada end up forgiving Morpheus? Does Barbie defeat her mysterious adversary? Are Lucifer and Loki besties? Is there another family dinner? To find out what happens you’re just going to have to listen for yourselves. The Sandman: Act II is out on Audible today. Become an Audible Premium Plus member and gain access to stories for free! Audible is currently offering their Premium Plus accounts for free for 30 days, otherwise it’s only $14.95. Not bad for one of the most engaging ways to listen to books and stay tuned for more coverage of this amazing audiobook because this review just scratches the surface and there is so much more about this adventure that we need to highlight and celebrate. It is definitely safe to say, that Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman was one of the most influential stories of its time with its sweeping plot and dynamic characters and everything in between and it was so powerful and so complete of a story, that it truly seemed that it would forever stand on its own as the masterpiece that it truly is. But time and creativity often allows for great writers to find new ways to continue incredible stories and it just so happens that Mister Gaiman figured out a way to continue this incredible tale. For tomorrow, Audible will release the first three episodes of the next chapter in this saga, The Sandman: Act II and well… in anticipation of this epic release… we’ve got all kinds of preview related goodies to share with you. Such as some baseline information on the cast, hints of the plot and of course… a trailer and some clips. So, without further ado, do enjoy all of those treats, courtesy of Audible, and make sure you swing by Nerds That Geek tomorrow for Shae’s review of the next chapter in this incredible story. ‘The Sandman: Act II, the much-anticipated second installment of the New York Times best-selling, multi-part original audio drama series, The Sandman, launches exclusively on Audible tomorrow. All-star cast includes James McAvoy, Kat Dennings, Michael Sheen, Andy Serkis, Jeffrey Wright, Regé-Jean Page, Brian Cox, Emma Corrin, John Lithgow, David Tennant, Bill Nighy, Kristen Schaal and more! In the absolutely packed Act II, the dark fantasy resumes and the Sandman expands into the French Revolution, Ancient Rome, 19th-Century San Francisco, 8th-century Baghdad, and beyond. The Sandman: Act II adapts collected volumes 4 (Season of Mists) and 5 (A Game of You) of the comics in their entirety, and most of volume 6 (Fables & Reflections). The first installment is currently available for free on Audible through October 22, and listen to episodes 1-3 of the first installment on all Amazon Music tiers through October 22. Adapted and directed by Dirk Maggs and narrated by Neil Gaiman, who also serves as creative director and co-executive producer, The Sandman: Act II features an ensemble cast led by James McAvoy in the title role of Dream, with Kat Dennings, Michael Sheen, and Andy Serkis reprising their respective roles. Jeffrey Wright, Regé-Jean Page, Brian Cox, Emma Corrin, John Lithgow, David Tennant, Bill Nighy, Kristen Schaal, Kevin Smith, Aidan Turner, Bebe Neuwirth, Adrian Lester, Miriam Margolyes, Arthur Darvill, Ray Porter and an expansive list of additional cast.’ ‘The Sandman: Act II’ TrailerClipsDestiny calls a family meeting to discuss his meeting with the gray women – Featuring Jeffrey Wright as Destiny, Kristen Schaal as Delirium, Kat Dennings as DeathLucifer gives a speech to his soldiers in Hell – Featuring Michael Sheen as Lucifer Lucifer and Morpheus meet – Featuring Michael Sheen as Lucifer, James McAvoy as Morpheus
Written by Juanita ‘Obi-Juan’ Bonner’It’s hard to believe we’ve already reached the one-year anniversary of the passing of Chadwick Boseman (1976-2020). Taken from us way too young, Boseman, at the height of his career, died from complications of colon cancer at just 43. Even though he was diagnosed way back in 2016, his illness was a complete surprise to almost everyone around him. The epitome of class and kindness, beyond being an actor, director, playwright and teacher over the course of his career, Boseman was also a well-known philanthropist and a supporter of social equality. And during a summer filled with racial justice protests, Boseman’s death was an unbearable blow to his fans, colleagues, family and friends. Leaving us with an absolutely groundbreaking filmography and legacy, both on and off screen, Boseman taught us to be strong, compassionate, and kind. An inspiration for all, Boseman’s impressive portrayals are astounding with a total of 97 nominations and 54 wins for various roles. Many of which give insight into the black experience while also teaching us what it is to be human regardless of race. Whether playing historical African American figures, a struggling musician, the King of Wakanda, or a simple military man, here are five Chadwick Boseman films that show us what it is to be human well beyond color. 42 |
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