Taylor Swift to Direct Feature Film for Searchlight Pictures Based on Her Own Original Script

Billboard.com

Taylor Swift is set to direct a feature film for Searchlight Pictures based on a script she wrote herself. Searchlight presidents David Greenbaum and Matthew Greenfield said in a statement, “Taylor is a once in a generation artist and storyteller. It is a genuine joy and privilege to collaborate with her as she embarks on this exciting and new creative journey.” The title and other details have not yet been confirmed.

Swift, who released Midnights in October, wrote and directed a short film last year to accompany an extended version of her song “All Too Well (Taylor’s Version).” It was submitted for the 2023 Oscars, and won the 2022 VMA for Best Direction. The latter award made Swift, who also won in 2020 for “The Man,” the first solo artist to receive the honor twice...Read the rest of the story

‘Lift Me Up’ Review: Rihanna’s Return To Music After Six Years is Understated Artistry

thecrimson.com

After six long years, Rihanna’s newest single “Lift Me Up” is the singer’s first solo song released since her last album “Anti” in 2016. The song was released as part of the soundtrack for the upcoming film “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever'' and was made in remembrance of the late Chadwick Boseman. “Lift Me Up” was co-written by Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, and “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler.

Fundamentally, “Lift Me Up” is not attempting to be another high-energy Rihanna single. Instead, the song utilizes a slower tempo to set up an emotional tone of remembrance for the upcoming “Black Panther” movie. Rihanna’s ballad is beautifully sung, and its pace allows listeners to listen closely and reflect upon each lyric. Having this single predate the release of the film similarly allows for listeners to imagine emotional scenes of the upcoming film alongside the calming hymn...Read the rest of the story