Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud

Zacharias Kunuk’s films are legendary for the way they show the beauty of Canada’s North and the richness of Inuit culture. His latest film 'Uiksaringitara (Wrong Husband)' is an epic love story, set four thousand years ago. Two artists from Igloolik, filmmaker Nyla Innuksuk and actor Zorga Qaunaq talk to Elamin Abdelmahmoud about the film and how Zacharias Kunuk’s movies have influenced Inuit storytelling in film.Theatre critic Glenn Sumi discusses the new pro-shot film version of the Stephen Sondheim musical ‘Merrily We Roll Along’ opening in movie theatres this week, and whether these cinematic versions of Broadway productions are a legitimate substitute for the live theatre experience. 

With pioneering MuchMusic program ‘RapCity’ having its 35th anniversary celebrations this year, Elamin is joined by the show's original creator and producer, Michele Geister - to look back on the program’s early rise to prominence.

Imagine this: Two of the best hockey players on the best teams in the NHL are arch-rivals on the rink. Off the ice: they’re lovers. That’s the premise of a new series on Crave called Heated Rivalry – adapted from a popular series of romance novels. Lainey Lui and former pro hockey player Brock McGillis join Elamin Abdelmahmoud to talk about a show that might be the steamiest on TV right now.Plus, people are talking about Claire Danes’ face in her new Netflix show, 'The Beast in Me.' Amil Niazi joins Elamin to talk about the response, what it reveals about Hollywood, beauty standards, and the world we’re living in today.

Choclair’s first full length album in 20 years - veteran music critic Dalton Higgins and Canadian music industry veteran Craig ‘Big C’ Mannix join Elamin Abdelmahmoud to review the new album and reflect on Choclair’s early rise to prominence. And Guardian columnist Stuart Heritage discusses the upcoming fourth entry in the action-comedy film series Rush Hour, a movie that is reportedly being made at the request of President Donald Trump.

Jesse Wente, a writer and Storyteller in Residence at Toronto Metropolitan University, shares his profound insights on the recent revelation about Thomas King's ancestry. He unpacks the complex emotions surrounding this news and its impact on King's legacy and works. Jesse discusses the disruption it caused in their film collaboration and reflects on his own mental health journey amid these struggles. Highlighting the importance of accountability and resilience, he offers hope for healing within Indigenous communities and recommends various Indigenous stories to explore.

Sonja Stanley Niaah, a cultural studies professor, and Danae Peart, a Jamaican-Canadian culture critic, discuss the profound legacy of reggae legend Jimmy Cliff following his passing. They delve into Cliff's role in globalizing reggae and the impact of his film The Harder They Come. Later, TV critics Alison Herman and Hoai-Tran Bui analyze the cultural phenomenon of Stranger Things Season 5, its nostalgic appeal, and the stakes for its characters. They highlight the show’s evolution and critique its nostalgic reliance as it approaches its conclusion.

Cree journalist Michelle Cyca and Anishinaabe/Mohawk writer Kim Wheeler probe the controversy surrounding author Thomas King's stunning admission about his ancestry. They explore the implications for his literary legacy and debate whether his claims were a mistake or intentional deception. Meanwhile, Min Chen, culture editor at Artnet News, dives into the recent Jim Henson Company auction, detailing how pop culture memorabilia has evolved into a booming market for collectors, highlighting record sales and the significance of preserving history through artifacts.

Vinson Cunningham, a culture critic known for his insights on film and celebrity culture, teams up with Lainey Lui, founder of LaineyGossip.com, to dissect Vanity Fair's all-male Hollywood issue and its implications on modern masculinity. They explore how vulnerability and accessibility are reshaping leading men's images. Music journalist Emile Hanskamp then dives into Tobias Jesso Jr.'s long-awaited album, discussing his journey from breakout star to behind-the-scenes songwriter, and the daring experimentation in his new music.

Ian Stamon, a former representative of De La Soul, delves into the significance of their new album, 'Cabin in the Sky,' especially after Trugoy the Dove's passing. Keysha Freshh, a Toronto rapper, shares her emotional connection to the album and its themes of grief and legacy. They also discuss the pioneering spirit of De La Soul and their struggles within the music industry. Rob Davies sheds light on the UK government's proposed ban on ticket resales above face value, aiming to combat scalping and protect artists and fans alike.

Join Kathleen Newman-Bremang, a sharp entertainment commentator, Sarah-Tai Black, a perceptive film critic, and Syrus Marcus Ware, a thought-provoking visual artist, as they dive into the latest cultural conversations. They tackle the buzz around the 'Wicked' film adaptation, exploring its emotional depth and political themes. The trio also discusses Michelle Obama's controversial comments on Black hair, addressing the systemic discrimination and the varied public reactions. Plus, don't miss their take on Mariah Carey's festive hit re-entering the charts!