Everything That's New & Black AF On Netflix This July
As we enter the latter half of 2020, it's safe to say that you made it, sis.
This year hasn't been all rainbows and butterflies but you've managed to block the bullshit with your head held high and if nobody has told you today, I'm proud of you. Amidst a pandemic and global protests, you're still standing––but every now and then, you need to sit your ass down on your favorite piece of lounge furniture and catch up on the all of the new Black AF titles on Netflix and xoNecole has you all the way covered.
For everything that's new and Black AF on Netflix this July, scroll below!
I Am Not Your Negro (July 1)
I Am Not Your Negro
I'ma let y'all finish, but James Baldwin was one of the greatest American orators of all time and in I Am Not Your Negro, director Raoul Peck takes an in-depth look at his last work before his death.
A Thousand Words (July 1)
A Thousand Words
We all have that friend who could stand to learn a thing or two about the solace that can be found in silence and if you don't, you're that friend. In this 2012 comedy co-starring Kerry Washington, we see Eddie Murphy as a new father, husband, and big-time industry exec who couldn't keep his mouth shut if his life depended on it.
Double Platinum (July 1)
Double Platinum
As an early's 90s baby, I can admit that I was today-years-old when I learned that Brandy and Diana Ross starred in a film together and now that it's made its way onto the streaming platform, I plan to get my entire life.
Ali (July 1)
Ali
Starring Jada Pinkett and Will Smith, this 2001 biopic about one of the greatest boxers to ever live is now streaming.
Shaft (July 1)
Shaft
This 1970s blaxploitation classic starring a young Richard Roundtree will give you all the nostalgia and then some.
This Christmas (July 1)
This Christmas
Netflix just gave us Christmas in July with a 2007 romantic comedy featuring an all-star cast including but not limited to Chris Brown, Lauren London, Regina King, and Idris Elba that will put you all the way in the holiday spirit.
Only (July 5)
Only
When a viral disease kills every woman on the planet, a couple isn't far along on their quest for survival before they are met with unforeseeable danger.
A Kid From Coney Island (July 6)
A Kid From Coney Island
I may not know much about sports, but I do know that Netflix does not come to play when it comes to their documentaries, and A Kid From Coney Island is no exception. Chronicling the rise and fall of former NBA hard-hitter, Stephon Marbury, this film is proof that men need mental self-care, too.
The Old Guard (July 10)
THE OLD GUARD (2020)
Current circumstances have us all ready to open up a can of whoop-ass, and thanks to the latest Netflix Original superhero film The Old Guard, you can live vicariously through Charlize Theron and KiKi Layne as they do exactly that.
Fatal Affair Starring (July 16)
Think Fatal Attraction. But Black. And in reverse. In a thriller featuring Nia Long and Stephen Bishop, Omar Epps gives us big stalker energy when a regrettable one night stand turns into a living nightmare.
Cursed (July 17)
Netflix
While this Netflix original series is only slightly melanated, the historical drama junkie in your life will live for this coming-of-age story starring Shalom Brune-Franklin and Devon Terrell (Barry) as a young King Arthur.
The Last Dance (July 19)
ESPN
The ESPN 10-part Michael Jordan-inspired documentary series that intimately detailed the ball player's professional journey and gave the internet memes for days is finally hitting the streaming service on July 19.
The Remix: Hip Hop x Fashion (July 22)
The Remix: Hip Hop x Fashion
In a documentary detailing the impact of fashion pioneers Misa Hylton and April Walker, The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion sheds light on the unsung story of how these women virtually created the art of streetwear and changed the industry forever.
Shameless: Season 10 (July 26)
Shameless
If you need a break from the real-life drama and are ready to dive into some on-screen mess, I'd strongly recommend that you pull up to the Gallagher household. Returning for its second-to-last season, this dysfunctional family TV drama is guaranteed to make you feel helluva lot better about your own life.
Seriously Single (July 31)
Seriously Single
Being alone doesn't mean you have to be lonely, just ask the South African stars of Netflix's latest comedy who, after a couple of rocky breakups, are seriously about that single life.
The Umbrella Academy: Season 2 (July 31)
Netflix
Last year, the Netflix Original sci-fi drama series The Umbrella Academy took the internet by storm, and at the end of this month, our weird and dysfunctional family of teenaged superheroes are returning for a second season.
Featured image by Double Platinum.
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Taylor "Pretty" Honore is a spiritually centered and equally provocative rapper from Baton Rouge, Louisiana with a love for people and storytelling. You can probably find me planting herbs in your local community garden, blasting "Back That Thang Up" from my mini speaker. Let's get to know each other: @prettyhonore.
Meet The Designer Behind This Megan Thee Stallion "Hiss" Video Look
When Megan Thee Stallion dropped “Hiss,” a shift happened. From the audacious lyrics to the striking visuals, there was no doubt that the song and video would go viral. The opening of the video shows the H-town hottie rocking a barely there Shibari red dress, showing off her voluptuous frame. It was a sexy moment created by Timeekah Murphy of Alani Taylor. The designer exclusively tells us how the opportunity came about and what it was like seeing her design on Megan for the first time.
Timeekah Murphy
Photo courtesy
xoNecole: How did the opportunity to create such an iconic look for Megan Thee Stallion's "Hiss" video come about?
Timeekah Murphy: The opportunity came from a DM from celebrity stylist Zerina Akers. She asked for a unique Shibari piece for Megan, and I needed to get it done in two days. So, of course, I did everything in my power to make it happen. I've always wanted to design for Megan, so this was an awesome opportunity for me.
xoN: What was that initial feeling of seeing the dress on her for the first time?
TM: I was shocked because, at first, I thought it hadn't been used. I saw Megan's last video and thought, damn, maybe it didn't fit. So, to see it on such an amazing video was breathtaking. I was beyond excited to finally say I designed for her.
xoN: Did you meet her? If so, how was that moment?
TM: I didn't meet Megan during the shoot, but during my time in LA, I got the opportunity to meet her at LA Pride with Tiffany Haddish, Common, and EJ King (stylist). Megan is such an amazing person, so it made it even better to know that my designs were going to be worn by her. I was shocked because, at first, I thought it hadn't been used. I saw Megan's last video and thought, damn, maybe it didn't fit. So, to see it on such an amazing video was breathtaking. I was beyond excited to finally say I designed for her.
"I was shocked because, at first, I thought it hadn't been used. I saw Megan's last video and thought, damn, maybe it didn't fit. So, to see it on such an amazing video was breathtaking. I was beyond excited to finally say I designed for her."
Photo courtesy
xoN: Walk us through the creation of the dress. How did you come up with the look, and how long did it take to make it?
TM: I was the co-designer for a brand called Deviant in 2018-2020, and we used to make custom Shibari pieces. That's how Zerina knew me. So I'm very familiar with making these types of pieces. We made plenty for Beyoncé, Cardi B, Tiffany Haddish, Tyra Banks, and so many others. So Zerina knew exactly what she wanted.
To get it done, it took me a day and a half. It's very intricate and time-consuming, so I spent about six hours making it then I sent an image of it to Zerina, and she didn't approve the first one, so I had to start from scratch again after getting my guidance and understanding of what was needed. The next day, I went to The Lab and created another version, and she approved it. I had to get it shipped overnight so that she would get it in time and fast forward to seeing it on the big screen.
xoN: What's next for you?
TM: Everything. The sky is not my limit, so the Alani Taylor brand is expanding into so many different avenues. We are getting involved in the community more, offering sewing classes to the youth. I've opened up a store for my brand in Atlanta and now preparing for fall/winter Fashion Week.
Megan Thee Stallion "Hiss" video/ YouTube
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Effective Ways To Navigate Unhealthy Silent Competition In Friendship Groups
Friendship groups, often referred to as tribes, gained immense popularity during the pandemic, celebrated for the mutual support and joy they bring. However, the discourse surrounding these groups often neglected a nuanced topic— the silent competition that can subtly emerge within a tribe. While some level of healthy competition can inspire personal growth, there exists an unhealthy side marked by emotions and pride.
Navigating such environments becomes challenging, especially when friendships are at stake. Navigating competition is not an easy task and for many folks, identifying unhealthy competition can be difficult to spot. I am going to provide you with the signs to look out for when dealing with unhealthy competition, how to effectively address it, and tangible ways to maintain supportive friendships.
There's nothing quite as fulfilling as being part of a vibrant community where individuals align in values, support one another, and uplift with words of encouragement. Yet, this ideal scenario isn't always the reality within friend circles or tribes. Frequently, unchecked jealousy, envy, and resentment can simmer beneath the surface, leading to unhealthy dynamics. Sadly, this can breed a toxic atmosphere of covert competition, often without the affected party even realizing it.
Here are some indicators that unhealthy competition may be present within your circle of friends:
Backhanded Compliments: When Insults Hide in "Praise"
Insults, whether veiled as compliments or not, are never truly flattering. Even when accompanied by laughter, unsolicited comments about your appearance, decisions, thoughts, beliefs, and more are never acceptable. In essence, anyone exhibiting "nice nasty" behavior toward you is revealing underlying animosity and competition. Moreover, they might consistently downplay or criticize your achievements or goals.
Take note of those who stand by you during challenging times and ponder this question: "Do they offer the same level of support and enthusiasm during my triumphs?" If the answer is no, it might be worth delving deeper into the topic.
Another indication of silent competition arises when someone constantly shifts the focus of your accomplishments and good news onto themselves. For example, if you share news of a promotion at work, the silent competitor may divert attention by recounting their own promotion or downplaying your achievements. These individuals struggle to genuinely celebrate your wins and may even feel threatened by your success.
Their body language often reveals their discomfort, such as avoiding eye contact, forced smiles, frowns, or creating physical distance. Paying attention to these cues can unveil the presence of silent rivalry within the relationship.
Now that you're aware of the signs to watch for, let's explore how to navigate this newfound insight:
Before taking any action, it's crucial to decide whether you want to salvage the friendship. Ask yourself if this relationship is truly worth the effort and if it brings positive value to your life. If your answer leans towards the negative, it might be time to reevaluate the necessity of maintaining this friendship.
Once you've made a decision about the future of your friendship, it's important to prepare for a potentially challenging conversation.
- If you've chosen to maintain the friendship, it's helpful to articulate the patterns you've noticed and express your feelings about them. Remember, no one can invalidate your experiences or emotions on the matter. After stating your observations, it's crucial to clearly communicate your expectations regarding respect and boundaries. You have the authority to define how you wish to be treated, but it's essential to assert these boundaries clearly.
- If you've decided to end the friendship, you have a couple of options. You can be straightforward about your feelings regarding the dynamic and communicate that you're no longer interested in maintaining the relationship. Alternatively, you can express your true feelings and gradually distance yourself from the friendship. This distancing might involve refraining from sharing personal news and accomplishments or reducing the frequency of spending time together.
While unhealthy competition within social circles may not always be avoidable, it can certainly be managed effectively. If you're still uncertain whether you're dealing with unhealthy competition, consider this golden rule: If you find yourself questioning a friend's motives due to their negative behavior towards you, chances are there's unhealthy competition at play.
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Featured image by Drazen_/Getty Images