The Open Queue

Open Queue productions, LLc

A podcast where we talk about entertainment, pop cultural and the daily life of navigating the entertainment industry as a creative.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO · BONUS

    The Upside Down’s Last Stand: Genius or Game Over?

    The Stranger Things finale has fans more divided than a D&D party without a healer. But is the ending actually a masterpiece of nostalgia, or did it miss the mark? This week, we’re diving into the "Final Boss" of 80s throwbacks to see what the Hawkins crew taught us about growing up. What’s inside the rift: The D&D Blueprint: Why the finale felt like the ultimate tabletop campaign—and why that actually worked.The Nostalgia Trap: Are sequels and spin-offs a good idea, or are we risking the "magic" of the original mythos?Side Character Superstars: A special shoutout to Christy Walden for proving there’s no such thing as a "small" role in a cultural phenomenon.The Legacy: How a show about monsters and mullets became a global roadmap for modern storytelling.Whether you’re still mourning the end or ready to close the book on Hawkins, we’re unpacking why this story sticks with us long after the credits roll. Grab your Eggos—we’re going deep.

    21 min

  2. 10 FEB · BONUS

    Why Wonder Man Is a Masterclass in Acting, Authenticity, and Human Emotion

    Marvel’s Wonder Man on Disney+ is a surprising masterclass in vulnerability. This episode explores how Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s portrayal of Simon Williams moves beyond typical superhero tropes to tackle the raw reality of the acting world: imposter syndrome, burnout, and the pursuit of authenticity. Whether you're a performer or a fan, join us as we deconstruct why Wonder Man is a vital reminder that the most heroic battles are the ones we fight within ourselves.

    29 min

  3. 2 FEB

    Black History Month: Why Representation in Media Is a Responsibility, Not Just Inspiration

    Black Excellence: No Boxes, No Limits The industry might be shifting, but Black stories are busier than ever. This week on Open Queue, Charles and Shaka are breaking down how creators are turning Hollywood’s "growing pains" into a masterclass in resilience and ownership. In this episode: The Blueprint: From the high-stakes thrill of Sinners to the timeless fun of movies like Meteor Man.The Vibe Shift: Why 2026 is the year of "Trauma-Free" storytelling—because Black creators deserve to have fun, too.The New Frontier: Navigating vertical content, community-driven projects, and how to actually own your influence.The Legend Factor: Shaka shares a "pinch-me" moment meeting Sidney Poitier that proves why honoring our icons is non-negotiable.Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or a fan of authentic culture, we’re serving up the motivation you need to stop asking for a seat at the table and start building your own. Legacy is built, not given. Let’s get into it.

    38 min

  4. 22/12/2025

    Rewind & Rejoice: Christmas Classics, Resolution Myths & Year-End Reflections

    Deck the halls and grab your headphones! Hosts Shaka Omari and Charles Malone are bringing some seasonal heat to The Open Queue. In this festive deep dive, they’re finally settling the ultimate industry debate: Is Die Hard truly a Christmas movie, or just a holiday heist? But it’s not all tinsel and carols. Shaka and Charles pull back the curtain on navigating a creative career during the winter hustle, sharing raw insights on industry challenges and how to set goals that actually stick for the New Year. Whether you’re here for the spirited holiday film rankings or the career-changing inspiration, this episode is the perfect blend of festive cheer and professional fire.

    52 min

  5. 10/12/2025 · BONUS

    Netflix and Rule Them All?: Mergers, Monopolies & the Future of Entertainment

    "In this episode of Open Queue, we dive into the monumental acquisition of Warner Brothers by Netflix for a staggering $83 billion. We explore the implications of this merger on the entertainment industry, discussing potential layoffs, the concentration of intellectual property, and the future of creativity in a tech-dominated landscape. Join us as we analyze the balance between business and art, and what this means for the future of streaming and traditional media. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the evolving dynamics of Hollywood."

    13 min

  6. 08/12/2025

    The Cinematic Soul Search: Unpacking the Genius of One Battle After Another

    Welcome to "The Open Queue," where hosts Shaka Omari and Charles Malone pull back the curtain on the creative industry's daily life, from pop culture highlights to profound entertainment analysis. In this episode, the queue is buzzing with debate over Paul Thomas Anderson's latest masterpiece, "One Battle After Another." Shaka and Charles unpack the film's sheer artistic brilliance, exploring its rich themes of liberation and self-discovery. But they don't stop there. They confront the ultimate industry question: Where does the fine line between uncompromising art and commercial necessity truly lie? A must-listen for cinephiles, creatives, and anyone ready for a thought-provoking discussion that celebrates the power of storytelling while challenging its business model.

    42 min

  7. 24/11/2025

    Soul Food and Family: A Thanksgiving Special

    Join us in this special Thanksgiving episode as we dive into the heart of family traditions, cherished memories, and the movies that bring us together. From the classic warmth of "Soul Food" to the unexpected twists in "The Oath," we explore films that capture the essence of the holiday season. Reflect on gratitude, family dynamics, and the cultural significance of gathering around the table. Whether you're a fan of heartwarming tales or spicy comedies, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that celebrates the spirit of Thanksgiving.

    52 min

  8. 19/11/2025 · BONUS

    The Unexpected Gem: Chad Powers Finale

    In this episode of The Open Queue, hosts Shaka Omari and Charles Malone dive into the captivating world of "Chad Powers," a show that has taken the streaming world by storm. Join them as they explore the unexpected twists and turns of this six-episode series, discussing the character arcs, emotional stakes, and the unique challenges of the streaming format. From the underdog journey of Chad Powers to the cliffhanger ending that left everyone wanting more, this episode is a must-listen for fans of compelling storytelling and dynamic character development. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights, spoilers, and a touch of humor.

    25 min
See All (18)

About

A podcast where we talk about entertainment, pop cultural and the daily life of navigating the entertainment industry as a creative.

Information

  • Creator
    Open Queue productions, LLc
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Open Queue productions, LLc
  • Show Website
    The Open Queue