Rihanna Cruz

In this discussion, freelance music and culture journalist Rihanna Cruz and culture writer Shamira Ibrahim dive into the highlights of the Grammys. They celebrate Beyoncé's historic win for Album of the Year and Kendrick Lamar's big night with Record and Song of the Year. The duo analyzes unexpected victories and the evolving landscape of music genres at the awards. They also reflect on the emotional responses within the music community and tackle the complex balance of celebration and tributes amid recent tragedies.

Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, joins to dive deep into the intriguing world of dystopian cinema with a focus on The Long Walk. She discusses its gripping narrative and its parallels to Stephen King's themes. The conversation shifts to contrasting opinions on character depth and the effectiveness of the film's emotional resonance. Humorous insights emerge as they explore the absurdities of walking on treadmills, highlighting both the filmmaking challenges and the everyday quirks of life.

Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist and dedicated Lady Gaga fan, joins NPR music critic Anne Powers to discuss Gaga's latest album, *Mayhem*. They delve into Gaga's evolution over the last five years, analyzing her eclectic influences and the personal themes woven into her tracks. The conversation highlights standout songs, including the emotional complexities of "Blade of Grass" and the gothic undertones in "Die With A Smile." They celebrate Gaga's provocative artistry and her continued impact on the pop music landscape.

Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, joins Walter Chow, a writer and film instructor, to discuss the chilling return of the Final Destination franchise. They explore how 'Final Destination Bloodlines' cleverly mixes humor with horror, while delving into the philosophical themes of mortality. The duo also celebrates the emotional depth found in Julian Baker and Torres’ new album, connecting it to nostalgic memories and the poignant storytelling seen in cinema. Expect thrilling insights and a touch of dark humor!

Join freelance music journalist Rihanna Cruz and pop culture critic Chris Klimek as they dive into James Cameron's latest visual spectacle, 'Avatar: Fire and Ash.' Rihanna shares her passion for the franchise and its stunning visuals, while Chris offers a more reserved take, critiquing pacing and originality. They discuss whether the film's effects will stand the test of time amidst industry advancements. Plus, discover what brings them joy—from heartfelt films to cinematic classics—making for a lively blend of critique and celebration.

This discussion features Bob Mondello, a seasoned NPR film critic; Jarrett Hill, co-author of Historically Black Phrases; and Rihanna Cruz, a music and culture journalist. They explore the complex legacy of Brokeback Mountain two decades after its release. The panel delves into the film's emotional impact, cultural reception, and the nuances of its characters' identities. They debate how the film challenged narratives around queer representation and discuss the role of societal pressures in shaping the story. Their insights reveal the film's lasting significance in cinema.

Join Roxana Haddadi, a TV critic at Vulture, Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, and Jordan Cruciola, host of Feeling Seen, as they dive into the nostalgia of 'I Know What You Did Last Summer.' They explore the sequel's connection to its '90s roots and discuss how modern storytelling blends with past horror tropes. Expect debates on audience reactions and comparisons with 'Scream,' highlighting the need for richer character development in today's horror films.

Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, and Shamira Ibrahim, a culture writer and critic, dive into the highs and lows of the 2025 Grammy Awards. They discuss Beyonce's historic Album of the Year win, the unexpected outcomes that shook the genre landscape, and the powerful performances asserting artist welfare and social causes. The duo highlights the blend of established artists and newcomers while examining the Grammys' balance between celebration and sensitivity in light of community challenges, offering a nuanced take on music's biggest night.

Char Jossel, an entertainment journalist, and Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, dive into the Netflix film *Emilia Pérez*, a musical about a trans-Mexican cartel boss forging a new identity. They discuss the film's intriguing blend of crime drama and musical elements while critically analyzing its portrayal of marginalized communities. Both guests express disappointment at the shallow representation of identity and advocate for more nuanced storytelling. Their insights on the film's choreography and narrative confusion offer a captivating critique of this divisive work.

Join freelance music journalist Rihanna Cruz and writer Jordan Cruciola as they dive into the chilling world of Smile 2, exploring its themes of trauma in pop stardom. They discuss Naomi Scott's standout performance and the film's unique blend of humor and horror. The conversation takes a delightful turn with a nod to Ariana Grande's comedic talents and Jimmy Buffett’s comforting melodies that provide solace amid chaos. They also share cozy entertainment recommendations for the Halloween season, ensuring a warm listening experience.