Shaka King Reigns Supreme

In this episode, the Buzzards interview writer-director Shaka King. In just under a decade Mr. King has amassed an impressive resume, including a string of films that have premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and several highly-acclaimed television series episodes. 

 

His latest film, JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH, is the hard-hitting examination of the last years of the enigmatic revolutionary-activist Black Panther Chairman Fred Hampton and his subsequent betrayal at the hands of a colleague, William O'Neal, who was conscripted by the FBI to do their bidding. Nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actor for both leads, Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield, Best Cinematography and Best Song.

 

The interview focuses on Mr. King's early life growing up in Brooklyn, his influences in literature and cinema and the trajectory of his career as we discuss several of his films. We talk about comedy vs. drama, hip hop and jazz and some of the intricacies of making JUDAS.

 

Please listen along as we get to know the next wave of a true talent - a rock steady voice that belies the anger and turmoil of generations embedded deep in his work - whose art speaks for itself. Shaka King, indeed, reigns supreme.

 

This one's for the cineastes and the cinephiles, the artists and the activists, the historians and the students. So grab a cocktail, roll a smoke, throw on the earbuds and enjoy this edition of FIVE DOLLAR BUZZ.

 

Please share your thoughts and comments and any ideas you have for guests and topics at fivedollarbuzz@gmail.com. Thanks for listening!