Podcast Summary: Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball | Chris Gotti & Safaree

Podcast Information:

• Title: New Rory & MAL
• Hosts: Rory & Mal
• Guests: Chris Gotti & Safaree
• Episode: Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball | Chris Gotti & Safaree
• Release Date: June 26, 2025
• Description: New stories, new laughs, new random hot takes that no one asked for...

1. Introduction to "Ballin'" and Its Release on Tubi

The episode kicks off with Rory and Mal introducing their special segment, "Don't Know Ball," featuring guests Chris Gotti and Safaree. They delve into their latest venture, the independent film "Ballin'", now available on Tubi. Rory expresses gratitude for being part of the first number one movie on Tubi for new Black films, highlighting its significant achievement with over 3 million streams in less than two weeks.

Rory [05:00]: "Here we have a first number one movie on Tubi right now for new Black films. 'Ballin''—you know, shout out Rich Walker, he's the one who wrote the script and he's my partner as well."

2. Casting Choices and Influencers in the Movie

Rory emphasizes the importance of casting authentic talent, opting for influencers and individuals with genuine acting capabilities rather than established stars. He praises Lance for his charisma and commitment, noting his evolution from being nervous on set to delivering standout performances within just 17 days of shooting.

Rory [06:10]: "Baron Davis, shout out Baron. He's another freestylist. Like, if he took it serious, he could really rap. He went in there with all ideas. He's singing. I called him the Black Drake."

3. Screenwriting and Adaptation Process

The film's script, penned by Rich Walker, draws inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock's "Dial M for Murder," adapting its plot twist to resonate with contemporary Black culture. Rory credits Rich for persevering with the project and securing the necessary budget promptly.

Rory [08:09]: "I give all the credit to Rich. Rich Walker kept pitching it to me, even when I was busy. Eventually, it was the right time, and I greenlit it right away."

4. Experience During Filming: Handling Sensitive Scenes

A significant portion of the discussion centers around filming sensitive scenes, particularly sex scenes. Rory outlines the respectful and professional approach taken to ensure the comfort and safety of all participants. Lance shares anecdotes about his initial discomfort and how continuous support and clear communication helped him grow more confident in his roles.

Rory [15:03]: "I protected all the girls. I can't have you in the shower with a bra that's not real. In any sex scenes we did, very tasteful. Classy."

5. Distribution Challenges and Tubi's Role

Rory discusses the complexities of distributing independent films, highlighting the reliance on aggregators who often take a significant equity share without substantial returns. He critiques Tubi’s model, pointing out that they retain 55% of every dollar, leaving creators with only 45%. Despite these challenges, Rory acknowledges Tubi as the leading platform for maximizing revenue from Black independent films.

Rory [19:17]: "They take 55% off every dollar. You're getting 45 cents off of every dollar. Through the aggregator, it's typically 80-20 your way, another 20 cents coming out for the aggregator."

6. Future Projects and AI in Filmmaking

The conversation shifts to future endeavors, with mentions of upcoming projects like "Cuzzo 2" and "Night Shift." Additionally, Rory and the guests explore the impact of AI on the filmmaking and music industries. They discuss both the potential enhancements AI can bring to creative processes and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.

Rory [38:09]: "AI could help producers enhance what they're doing to find new sounds, new music. It's all about creativity and ideas."

7. Tribute to Irv Gotti and Hot 97 Mismanagement

A heartfelt segment addresses the improper handling of a tribute to Irv Gotti on Hot 97. Rory expresses frustration over the network’s mismanagement, leading to an incomplete and rushed tribute. This mishandling underscores broader issues within media networks when honoring influential figures.

Rory [40:55]: "They released our movie without telling us, which was obscene. They took 55% off every dollar, and they didn't fund anything. It's rape and pillage, that's just the facts."

8. Leverage of Influencer Platforms and Community Building

Throughout the episode, Rory and his guests emphasize the importance of leveraging influencer platforms and building strong communities. They argue that platforms like Tubi, despite their drawbacks, offer unparalleled access to dedicated audiences that larger networks fail to reach effectively.

Chris Gotti [21:37]: "Community is better than perception. If we went on Netflix, it'd have a cooler press release, but is that the best move based on the community we're trying to build?"

9. Reflections on the Content Era and Industry Shifts

In the latter part of the episode, the hosts reflect on the rapid content turnover in today's digital age. They discuss the pressure to constantly produce new material and how this environment affects both the music and film industries. Safaree, in particular, laments the short-lived nature of success today compared to the past.

Lance [44:23]: "Nothing lasts anymore. You could put something up, it's gone. How long are we talking about it? Three days, four days?"

10. Closing Remarks and Future Collaborations

The episode wraps up with acknowledgments of their guests' new projects and upcoming announcements. They express enthusiasm for future collaborations and the continued growth of their independent ventures.

Chris Gotti [54:15]: "We have some more projects coming out. For example, 'Vendetta' starring Keani Marley, and 'Cuzzo 2.' Excited for what's next."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Rory [05:00]: "Here we have a first number one movie on Tubi right now for new Black films. 'Ballin''—you know, shout out Rich Walker, he's the one who wrote the script and he's my partner as well."

• Rory [15:03]: "I protected all the girls. I can't have you in the shower with a bra that's not real. In any sex scenes we did, very tasteful. Classy."

• Rory [19:17]: "They take 55% off every dollar. You're getting 45 cents off of every dollar. Through the aggregator, it's typically 80-20 your way, another 20 cents coming out for the aggregator."

• Chris Gotti [21:37]: "Community is better than perception. If we went on Netflix, it'd have a cooler press release, but is that the best move based on the community we're trying to build?"

• Lance [44:23]: "Nothing lasts anymore. You could put something up, it's gone. How long are we talking about it? Three days, four days?"

Conclusion:

This episode of "New Rory & MAL" provides an in-depth look into the making and distribution of the independent film "Ballin'," shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of creating Black-centric content in today's digital landscape. Through candid discussions, Rory, Mal, and their guests offer valuable insights into the evolving media industry, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the strategic navigation required to succeed as independent creators.