Everyone knows that there's equality in the United States. As much as we'd like to pretend we're all holding hands and singing kumbaya, it's just not happening. Racism is alive and well and it's evident in all aspects of life. For me, I see it in award shows constantly. Most recently with snubs for films such as Selma and Dear White People this year, it's evident that African Americans and all people of color are having a hard time of it when it comes to getting recognized for great performances.

But then there are things like Alfre Woodard's Oscar's Sistahs Soiree that keep me inspired and give me hope that recognition will eventually come to those who are truly talented regardless of skin color. The purpose is to bring together women of color who are amazingly talented, and show them that there is a group rooting for them. That we are much more powerful when we lift each other up versus stepping on one another to get a leg up. Hollywood may not recognize our talent, but we know, and if events like this continue, eventually we won't have to worry about that little gold man being the bane of existence for one's  career. It'll no longer be the marker for supposed excellence. Or they could simply get their heads out of their butts and finally figure out that it's not the color of one's skin and/or  gender that makes them talented. It's something no little gold man can measure. In the meantime, I'll be looking for my invitation to the Soiree in the future.




Now that you've all wound down from your post-Valentine bliss and have begun to go back into your normal routine of picking little fights with your significant other, I'd like to bring your attention to a film that was brought to my attention that will make you realize how good you have it.






(photo courtesy of fansshare.com 2015) 
The Ever After is a film about a marriage on the rocks with both the husband and wife dealing with some serious issues within and outside of their marriage. Ava ( Teresa Palmer), who was once an A-List actress, is now a stay-at-home mother who is dealing with not being in the spotlight while her husband Thomas (Mark Webber) is getting quite comfortable with the price of fame. So much so that he's not sure about keeping with the status quo of his current relationship. As things go from bad to worse, they realize that trying to battle their demons apart is not doing them any favors ultimately helping them realize that their relationship is worth a fight.

This is not Mark Webber's first rodeo when it comes to directing, but I think he does an amazing job with this film. I love the dialogue of this film the most as it's real. Teresa and Mark make the words their own which might have been made a little easier considering they wrote the screenplay as well.

The couple, who is married in real life, makes it all the more spectacular that they were able to pull this off without it becoming stale considering the way it has gone in the past with other Hollywood couples who have worked together. Their individual abilities shine through and the chemistry between them never drags. Another great thing is that they've released it straight to the consumer on VHX. At minimum, you pay $10, and you receive three versions of the film. It could be another way of getting your own content to the world without having the confines of a studio breathing down your neck.

The film makes you reflect on your own relationships and forces you to get out of the idea that it's all fairy tales and singing animals. It's along the lines of Blue Valentine in that it's something that goes on daily. There are people out there having it out constantly. Some are making up, some are breaking up, but whatever is happening, they continue living.

Overall, this film gets a hell yeah from me. The great dialogue, the grittiness, and the idea that it may not be happily ever after, but love is worth the scars.

Check out The Ever After starring Teresa Palmer, Mark Webber, Rosario Dawson, Phoebe Tonkin, Melissa Leo, Tahyna Tozz, and 

7. Troy Polamalu
Pittsburg Steelers Strong Safety, 33-years-old, married.
Known equally for his luxurious hair, Troy is a powerhouse who stops at nothing to get the tackle. He is also avid in the garden, and he builds chairs. He's like a boulder with a squishy center.

8. Eric Decker 
New York Jets Wide Receiver; 27-years-old, married.
This Minnesota native is a handsome young man putting me in the mind of a young Kurt Warner. He's incredibly talented and it sucks that he started out with a foot injury, but he's worked hard. I hope his time with the Jets shows how fantastic he is so that we can get more picture of him in suits... and shirtless. Whatever.

Bonus: Kurt Warner retired quarterback, Hall of Fame eligible, 43-years-old, married


He's really the main reason I wanted to make this list. I was bummed that he wasn't picked for the Hall of Fame, but, it's his first year of eligibility, and throughout his entire career, he's never gone through the normal process of becoming great. I mostly watched him when he was the quarterback for the St. Louis Rams. He was great and his leadership on and off the field are something to be admired. So he will get his in due time, and I can't wait for that announcement to come!