Some heist movies ask you to admire the plan. This franchise has always asked you to admire the plan, the misdirection, the lighting, the monologue, the reveal, and at least three things that probably violate the laws of physics. That is the fun of it. It is not a grounded crime saga. It is a magic trick wearing a heist movie’s suit, and it has somehow made that formula last across multiple films, several impossible reveals, and a whole lot of dramatic card throwing.

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t is now streaming, bringing Lionsgate’s flashy heist franchise back with returning Horsemen and a younger generation of illusionists. Directed by Ruben Fleischer, the sequel once again centers on elaborate magic-based crimes, mind-bending reveals, and performers who treat the phrase “normal robbery” as a personal insult. Rotten Tomatoes describes the story as bringing the Four Horsemen together with new illusionists for twists, surprises, and magic unlike anything previously captured in the series.

The cast includes Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network, Zombieland) as J. Daniel Atlas, Woody Harrelson (True Detective, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) as Merritt McKinney, Dave Franco (Neighbors, The Disaster Artist) as Jack Wilder, Isla Fisher (Wedding Crashers, Confessions of a Shopaholic) as Henley Reeves, Lizzy Caplan (Masters of Sex, Cloverfield) as Lula May, Morgan Freeman (The Shawshank Redemption, Se7en) as Thaddeus Bradley, Justice Smith (Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Detective Pikachu), Dominic Sessa (The Holdovers), Ariana Greenblatt (Barbie, 65), and Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn).

Is ‘Now You See Me: Now You Don’t’ Any Good?

Collider’s review stated that Now You See Me: Now You Don’t gives the franchise a welcome jolt by pairing the original Horsemen with a sharp new trio of younger magicians, and that expanded team dynamic is one of the sequel’s biggest strengths. The review was also delighted with the addition of Pike to the movie, who brings a lot of energy and smug nastiness, which is great — “As the villainous Veronika Vanderberg, Rosamund Pike is exceptional: charming with a thinly veiled ruthlessness, perfect for a wealthy heiress whose bad side you’d like to avoid.”

It’s really fun, packed with good set pieces and snarky banter, and it should leave audiences happy.

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t is now streaming.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Release Date

November 12, 2025

Runtime

Advertisement

112 minutes

Director

Ruben Fleischer

Advertisement

Writers

Rhett Reese, Seth Grahame-Smith, Michael Lesslie, Paul Wernick, Eric Warren Singer, Boaz Yakin, Edward Ricourt

Advertisement

Producers

Alex Kurtzman, Bobby Cohen

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Margot Robbie has mastered that elusive New York rich-girl uniform, and lately, it seems to hinge on one key piece: perfectly slouchy denim that looks lived-in in the best way. There’s something about a relaxed, baggy silhouette that instantly makes an outfit feel cooler, quieter and more expensive. It’s the kind of staple that doesn’t try too hard, but somehow pulls everything together.

While out in New York City on May 4, the Barbie star leaned into that formula with a crisp white tank, a relaxed black blazer and a caramel shoulder bag. But it was her faded black, wide-leg jeans that grounded the entire look, giving it that effortless, downtown polish. The good news? You don’t need a celebrity stylist (or budget) to get there — a similar baggy silhouette is on Amazon for just $32.

Get the Emmiol High Rise Wide Leg Jeans for $32 (originally $49) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Related: Get Jennifer Aniston’s Chic Spring Flip-Flops Look for Just $27

Jennifer Aniston has spent years proving that true style doesn’t have to be complicated, and her latest spring outfit is further proof. The actress recently made basic black flip-flops look surprisingly chic, pairing the casual staple with a silky blue dress in a way only she could pull off. Equal parts polished and effortless, the […]

Advertisement

The Emmiol High Rise Wide Leg Jeans mirror Robbie’s pair with their faded black wash and slightly oversized, borrowed-from-the-boys fit. They sit at a mid-to-high-rise that smooths the waist, then fall into a loose leg that drapes without clinging — key to that “expensive without trying” effect. The soft cotton-blend fabric adds comfort, and they come in multiple washes if you want to mix it up.

Styling-wise, this is where the New York rich-girl energy really clicks. Pair them with a white tank and blazer like Robbie for that polished, model-off-duty look, or swap in a lightweight knit and ballet flats for something more uptown. Even a simple tee and sneakers lean into the same relaxed, city-cool aesthetic. Either way, these jeans do the work for you.

Shoppers are just as into them, calling out the “trendy, casual vibe” and how easily they pair with everything from tanks to structured blazers. Others say they’re “super comfortable,” thanks to the breathable, slightly stretchy feel — ideal for long days that go from coffee runs to dinner plans.

Bottom line: this is one of those easy, expensive-looking staples that elevates everything else in your closet. The fit is relaxed but refined, the wash feels perfectly worn-in and the price makes it an easy yes. Consider it your shortcut to that understated, downtown polish Robbie makes look effortless.

Get the Emmiol High Rise Wide Leg Jeans for $32 (Was $49) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more from Emmiol here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

Related: Jennifer Lawrence’s Mary Jane Sneakers Are Spring’s It-Girl Shoe

Advertisement

Jennifer Lawrence has once again proven that practical fashion can still feel incredibly chic. The actress is known for making low-key staples look polished, and her latest spring outfit may have just confirmed that Mary Jane sneakers are officially the comfiest it-girl shoe of the season. Equal parts sporty and feminine, the trend feels like the […]

Murder mystery TV shows may not be in abundance on HBO Max, but the ones it does have are very impressive.

During the few times that HBO has gone all-in on mystery, it’s often lined up movie stars to give the shows even more prestige.

The Watch With Us team has recently revisited the genre to select the four great murder mystery TV shows on HBO Max, as ranked by IMDb rating.

No. 1 on the list is a show you’ve almost certainly seen before if you subscribe to HBO or HBO Max.

Related: 11 Best True Crime Shows to Watch on HBO Max (March 2026)

HBO Max has one of the best collections of true crime shows out there. The Jinx and I’ll Be Gone in the Dark are just two of the best true crime documentaries on the platform. We’ve put together a list of even more fascinating docs about murderers, cults and grifters. Thank You! You have successfully […]

4. ‘The Undoing’ (2020)

IMDb rank: 7.4

Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant lent their star power to The Undoing, a psychological thriller and a murder mystery that debuted on HBO Max just over half a decade ago. The story revolves around Grace (Kidman) and Johnathan Fraser (Grant), a couple who appear to be content on the surface. In reality, Jonathan is secretly having an affair with Elena Alves (Matilda De Angelis), an enigmatic woman whom Grace keeps running into.

When Elena is found dead, Jonathan emerges as one of the prime suspects. Even Grace can’t say for certain if her husband is guilty of murder or not. Grace intends to discover the truth, but she may not like the things she learns about Jonathan and their life together.

The Undoing is streaming on HBO Max.

3. ‘Perry Mason’ (2020 – 2023)

IMDb rank: 7.6

The original Perry Mason TV series was almost exclusively centered on murder cases that the title character solved through dramatic moments in court. HBO’s TV reboot embraced the character’s origin, but leaned more into detective stories by introducing a much younger Perry Mason, as played by Matthew Rhys.

In this incarnation, Perry is a private detective in the early ’30s who is drawn into the investigation of a child kidnapping gone wrong. John Lithgow costars as Perry’s frequent employer, Elias Birchard “E.B.” Jonathan, a lawyer who utilizes the former’s services. But to get the answers he needs, Perry will eventually embrace the law as his own profession and become a lawyer himself.

Perry Mason is streaming on HBO Max.

2. ‘Mare of Easttown’ (2021)

IMDb rank: 8.4

Mare of Easttown was only intended as a standalone miniseries, but it made quite an impression thanks to Kate Winslet‘s Emmy-winning performance as Marianne “Mare” Sheehan. Near the beginning of the show, Mare’s personal life is falling apart, as her ex-husband, Frank Sheehan (David Denman), moves on with a new lover while she deals with the fallout of their son’s suicide.

As Mare struggles to solve the case of a missing girl, Katie Bailey (Caitlin Houlahan), another young woman, Erin McMenamin (Cailee Spaeny), is found murdered. Mare reluctantly accepts help from Detective Colin Zabel (Evan Peters) on both cases. But the search for answers will ultimately come down to Mare herself, especially after some shocking twists along the way.

Mare of Easttown is streaming on HBO Max.

Related: 7 Best HBO Max Shows of 2025 So Far, Ranked

Advertisement

HBO has had a reputation for creating the best shows on TV for decades. HBO Max may have diluted the brand, but that reputation is largely intact. Some shows like And Just Like That have proven to be more popular as hate-watches, but there have already been some great HBO Max series this year that […]

1. ‘True Detective’ (2014 – Present)

IMDb rank: 8.8

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Advertisement

There have been four seasons of True Detective to date, each with its own cast of Hollywood A-list actors. But the first season starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson is easily among the greatest HBO shows ever made. That season embraced non-linear storytelling set between two time periods. In the past, homicide detectives Rustin “Rust” Cohle (McConaughey) and Martin “Marty” Hart (Harrelson) tackle a gruesome murder case that makes their careers.

However, Rust and Marty are estranged from each other in the present, and they reluctantly revisit their shared history when a new investigation mirrors the one they supposedly closed years ago. Marty and Rust are hiding some pretty big secrets, but they’re also invested in finding out who’s really behind these murders, even if it costs them their lives.

True Detective is streaming on HBO Max.

By Robert Scucci
| Published 11 seconds ago

When the Coen Brothers fire on all cylinders, you really can’t beat them. Unfortunately, they’ve put out so many certified bangers that some get overlooked more than others, like 2008’s Burn After Reading. Whenever I talk to anybody about the duo’s films, the same titles always come up. Blood Simple (1984). Raising Arizona (1987). Fargo (1996). The Big Lebowski (1998). No Country for Old Men (2007). You get the point.

Burn After Reading, while not the most talked about Coen Brothers film, remains one of the best comedies of errors in their filmography because everybody miscommunicates and acts on impulse at a level so insanely stupid that it’s actually awe-inspiring. There’s espionage and blackmail, love triangles, paranoia, and, my favorite part, J.K. Simmons somehow being both subdued and completely exasperated whenever he shows up in a scene.

We Really Can’t Talk Too Much Plot Here

Normally, when I lay out a plot for a review, I talk about the beats at a high level so I don’t spoil the film. You can’t really do that with Burn After Reading because every single scene reveals something important. It’s a cumulative exercise in escalation, and the best I can do without robbing you of the experience is give you a quick and dirty rundown so you know what kind of people we’re dealing with here.

Osborne Cox (John Malkovich) is a disgraced CIA analyst who gets demoted because of his drinking problem. Unable to handle the blow to his ego, he quits and decides to write his memoirs. His wife, Katie (Tilda Swinton), is thinking about filing for divorce for many of the same reasons his bosses pushed him out, and, on her lawyer’s advice, starts gathering financial documents to get the ball rolling. In the process, she accidentally snags a rough copy of Osborne’s memoirs. She’s also having an affair with U.S. Marshal Harry Pfarrer (George Clooney), who compulsively works out and constantly falls into paranoid spirals.

This information gets burned onto a CD-R by her lawyer’s assistant, who accidentally drops it out of her gym bag while working out at Hardbodies, the gym where everybody just so happens to cross paths at one point or another. This is where Burn After Reading introduces the dumbest criminals of all time in the form of Linda Litzke (Frances McDormand) and Chad Feldheimer (Brad Pitt), two personal trainers who collectively have an IQ of about 50.

Chad looks at the disc, which mostly contains Osborne’s bank statements and some laughably bad prose, and becomes convinced he’s uncovered sensitive government material. He and Linda come up with a plan to blackmail Osborne, though in their minds they’re really just holding onto his “important assets” until he pays them to return everything safely. From this point forward, loyalties shift, incriminating information comes to light, and the Russian Embassy gets dragged into the mess because Linda desperately wants a payout so she can finally afford cosmetic surgery. Meanwhile, her manager Ted (Richard Jenkins), who’s secretly in love with her, watches the whole thing unravel in horror from the sidelines.

We’ve Barely Gotten Into This, Trust Me

While it may sound like I’ve already given you the full rundown for Burn After Reading, we’ve barely scratched the surface. Every interaction spirals further out of control, pushing each character into increasingly ridiculous territory. It would probably take three more pages to unpack everybody’s motives, affairs, and missteps. It’s a masterclass in everything going wrong in the worst way possible, no matter how smart, flawed, or downright idiotic the people involved happen to be.

The second-hand exasperation you feel while watching Burn After Reading can basically be summed up through J.K. Simmons’ character at the CIA, known only as “CIA Superior.” He’s such an inconsequential character, but his position in the hierarchy being dismantled here perfectly illustrates how inconsequential everything else in the film actually is. Every time he gets an update about Osborne’s missing files, Linda and Chad’s extortion attempts, or Harry’s involvement, he rubs his temples and tells his guy to come back when any of it starts making sense.

In Burn After Reading, the stakes couldn’t be any lower, but everybody treats the situation like their lives depend on things going exactly their way, even though most of them barely understand what their own goals even are. That’s what makes it so beautiful to watch. Nobody is operating on the same wavelength, and every misunderstanding snowballs into another slapdash disaster waiting to happen.

If you’re a Coen Brothers fan but slept on Burn After Reading, I strongly recommend you stop what you’re doing, fire up Netflix where it’s currently streaming, and watch it as soon as possible.

Whew! Looks like tensions are boiling over online, and one celeb isn’t holding back at all. Claressa Shields has the internet talking after a fiery, apparently-deleted Facebook rant turned into a full-on comment section showdown involving a family member, a fan, and plenty of sharp words. What started as alleged drama tied to one of her friends quickly spiraled into a messy back-and-forth that had social media glued to the screen.

RELATED: Whew! Social Media Users Are Goin’ IN After Claressa Shields Shared AI-Generated Photos Of Herself At The Met Gala

According to screenshots making rounds online, Claressa went off on her cousin, Shalita, after an alleged confrontation, writing, “Hahhahahah When it Get Hot in Flint y’all start going crazy big Foot got ran down on today.” But, things escalated even more after a fan stepped in and pointed out the irony behind the insults. Claressa wasted no time clapping back, replying, “yes btc. I ain’t got no big *ss feet, I’m not 6 foot nothing and damn sure ain’t got big hands. Do your research big *ss,” before also roasting the commenter directly, adding, “you only take pics chest up. We all know what that mean miss.”

Claressa Shields Fires Back In The Comments

And she still wasn’t done. Claressa later jumped into LiveBitez’s comment section to defend herself and provide what she says is missing context behind the viral posts. “See This what I don’t like @livebitez! This distant family member who I have not seen in 10 years trolls, lies, harrasses, tries to verbally bully me Sunday- Monday 8am- 7pm ! I ignore her *ss!” she wrote. She continued by accusing the family member of constantly trolling her online because Claressa allegedly refuses to give her money or maintain a relationship with her.

One Instagram user @ohhthatsyb claimed, “she ate this one lil thing😂😂😂😂😂”

This Instagram user @monyea4k said, “Millionaire doing all this responding gesh“

And, Instagram user @kleopatra_jonez_sr added, “I’m glad she poppin off how much can one person take I know if I was famous I would be flaming all yall”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @thesarcasticintrovert shared, “She can defend herself. If they don’t want to be criticized stop criticizing her.“

While Instagram user @playdis_notdat wrote, “Claressa ain’t taking that celebrity route yall gone stop playin with her“

Lastly, Instagram user @holyshabazz joked “she cooked her😭😭 chest up frfr“

RELATED: Style Twins? Monica Responds After AI Photo Compares Her & Claressa Shields’ White Shoe Game

Any trip to Miami calls for rocking the hottest outfits under the sun, and Jessica Alba definitely got the memo. The star celebrated her birthday weekend in The Magic City, and wore some of the chicest styles that made Us zoom in. One of her favorites? Her Agolde Vana Fold Jeans. And while the exact pair is sold out, her outfit inspired our quest to get our hands on equally cool options — and we found several on sale right now.

Nordstrom slashed prices on Agolde jeans, as well as elevated basics like T-shirts, tank tops and jackets for up to 55% off. These sleek pieces are usually out of our price range, but now everyone can get in on the A-lister style with Nordstrom’s under-the-radar sale.

Agolde Clothing Deals Hiding at Nordstrom

Agolde Denim Deals

1. Our Favorite: Alba’s exact Agolde jeans are out of stock, so we found this tapered denim option to mimic the look. Similar to the star’s Echo pants, they have an eye-grabbing waist detail via the foldover design. It totally stands out in a crowd — was $268, now $147!

2. Classy Classic: You can’t go wrong with easy-going straight jeans; these style nicely with everyday tees and going out tops. We love the high waist and minor stretch that comfortably pulls everything in — was $238, now $179!

3. Petite-Friendly: Ankle jeans are a petite girl’s best friend. With a 27.5-inch inseam and a cropped raw hem, the pants will look custom-made for your body (sans the tailor) — was $238, now $165!

4. Flattering Find: These slim straight-leg jeans have star-studded potential due to the ankle hem and relaxed fit. Read: It shows off your curvaceous shape without the tightness — was $248, now $186!

5. Going Viral: Okay, so not everyone loves that low-rise jeans are back, but this Agolde pair might convince you otherwise. They feature a loose, bootcut-style leg that feels way more comfortable than your average skinny jeans — was $248, now $186!

6. Same But Not: If you like the above low-rise pair but want it in an evening-appropriate style, opt for this denim option in the black dark wash. It goes with everything from sexy halter tops to bodysuits — was $238, now $179!

Related: Upgrade Your Summer Dress Game With 15 Marked-Down Styles at Nordstrom

Advertisement

My favorite part of summer? Throwing on a pretty sundress and going about my day. The breezy, elevated style staple makes it easier than ever to dress for warmer weather — and, as a bonus, your outfit looks good, too. Every year, I add a few options to my closet during Nordstrom’s pre-summer sale, and this […]

7. Hollywood Style: Don’t these cocktail mid-rise jeans give major Audrey Hepburn vibes? It all has to do with the cropped cut and straight yet slim leg that’s so Sabrina — was $248, now $186!

8. Nantucket Vibes: Get coastal rich mom vibes when you bring out these white wide-leg jeans. They’re perfect for shopping along Old South Warf or chowing down lobster rolls at a local eatery — was $238, now $95!

9. Cool-Girl Style: Now is the perfect time to wear these chic leather pants that make you look like the ‘It’ girl in your friend group. Unlike most black leather pants, these have a metallic sheen to them for the rockstar look — was $298, now $179!

10. Instant Upgrade: The split hem on these Agolde skinny jeans really sets them apart. It’s a subtle detail that totally elevates the otherwise casual look. Honestly, we could see them worn to everything from casual bistro dates to late night concerts — was $278, now $180!

Agolde Top Deals

11. Closet Hero: Spring days call for layerable pieces that work nicely under button-up shirts and denim jackets alike, which is why we’re eyeing this stretchy tank. The racerback detail and ribbed knit style give it a model-off-duty look — was $98, now $49!

12. Celeb-Approved: Swift is a fan of Agolde’s Aura bodysuits, and this is the cap-sleeve version of her long-sleeved pick. Simple yet chic, this majorly discounted find is just what you need for a night on the town — was $148, now $67!

13. Game Changer: Trendy denim jackets are usually boxy and oversized (at least in 2026), but this structured option is all about the curves. It has a peplum-style design that nips in at the waist to give you an hourglass appearance — was $298, now $224!

14. Expensive-Looking: You don’t need a shiny, embellished ensemble to look rich. Sometimes it just takes an interesting staple to take your outfit up a notch, and this asymmetric top does just that — was $138, now $104!

15. Luxe Loungewear: Whether you’re chilling on the couch or running errands, this cropped T-shirt handles it all in style. It shows off just a hint of midriff, which looks model worthy when paired with high-waisted jeans (yes, like the ones above) — was $108, now $49!

16. No Brainer: This long-sleeved tee is just what you need for work trips and date nights alike. It fits close to the body, but has a conservative appearance that looks great under office-appropriate blazers — was $138, now $55!

17. Last But Not Least: Go with this sleek tank top on days when you want to look put together without doing any of the styling work. The U-shaped neckline shows a bit of skin without overdoing it — was $98, now $49!

Summer style always sounds effortless . . . until you’re actually standing in front of your closet trying to get dressed in the heat. The wrong fabric, the wrong fit or just one extra layer can make an outfit feel completely off. That’s why Amazon’s new “Summer Wardrobe Refresh” edit couldn’t have landed at a better time.

It’s packed with easy dresses, flowy pants, chic sandals and cute accessories that take the guesswork out of putting an outfit together. The pieces are designed to feel light, look polished and work across whatever your day has planned. And with prices starting at just $10, it’s an easy excuse to upgrade a few staples.

17 Top Picks From Amazon’s New ‘Summer Wardrobe Refresh’ Edit

Dresses

1. Our Favorite: Pink tropical leaves print this short-sleeve mini dress in flowy fabric that skims rather than clings. The $12 price tag makes it an easy yes for vacation packing.

2. Runner-Up: When jeans feel impossible, and shorts feel like too much, this resort sundress becomes the easy answer. One piece, done, and you actually feel good in it.

3. Has Pockets: Pockets on a maxi dress shouldn’t be a luxury, but here we are. This floral T-shirt dress handles your phone and lip balm so you can ditch the bag.

4. Figure-Flattering: The V-neck and A-line silhouette on this navy floral sundress define the waist while skimming everything below. The short sleeves cover the upper arms without feeling heavy.

5. Rich Mom-Style: Ruffled cap sleeves, a button front and a tie waist on this striped midi dress actually flatter the shape. The full look reads expensive without trying hard.

Related: The 13 Best Finds From Amazon’s New May Fashion Arrivals — From $15

As temperatures rise, I always start craving lighter, prettier pieces that feel more exciting than the same basics I’ve been rotating for months. That’s exactly why I scrolled through Amazon’s May new arrivals searching for stylish wardrobe upgrades that wouldn’t completely derail my budget. This month’s fashion finds feel especially good. From easy sundresses for […]

Advertisement

Skirts and Pants

6. Our Favorite: When the weather turns sticky, and jeans feel punishing, these wide-leg palazzo pants solve it. It brings an airy fabric, a forgiving cut and instantly cooler feel.

7. Flirty Florals: Picture vineyard photos, an outdoor dinner, sandals and a simple tank with this chiffon floral skirt. It’s a piece that pulls the whole look together.

8. Luxe Linen: For beach town strolls, seafood dinners, and travel days when you want to look put-together, these cropped linen pants are perfection. They pack flat and look intentional.

Blouses and Tops

9. Our Favorite: With an oversized cut, classic stripes and a relaxed crewneck, it’s no wonder shoppers keep coming back for this striped short-sleeve top. Not to mention, it also drapes instead of clinging.

10. Boutique-Looking: Made with puff sleeves, a V-neck and a vibrant floral design, this babydoll peplum blouse looks like something from a small-shop boutique. It’s just a $27 Amazon find!

11. Everyday Ease: The 3/4 sleeves do the heavy lifting on this everyday floral blouse, covering enough to feel comfortable without overheating. It easily becomes a weekly rotation piece.

12. Ravishing Ruffles: Tuck this shirred strap tank into linen shorts for the patio or layer under a denim jacket on a cooler night. It can easily do both, and is just $15.

Shoes

13. Our Favorite: These H cut-out sandals dress up an outfit without the four-figure price tag. With an open toe, slip-on construction and an H-shaped cutout, they mimic a designer pair.

14. Sleek Sneakers: These white walking sneakers don’t shout for attention. Made with a clean white leather-look upper, classic tie-up laces and a low profile, they go with everything.

15. Very Viral: These square-toe flip flops read elevated — not pool deck style. Featuring a square toe, flat leather construction and a minimalist, its no wonder they’re flying off Amazon.

Accessories

16. Our Favorite: Sometimes a white tee just needs one good piece of jewelry. This chunky resin bracelet does that work for just $12 — no overthinking required.

17. Woven Winner: This striped beach bag holds up to actual sand and saltwater. With a striped woven straw construction and a roomy shoulder shape, it fits at least a towel, sunscreen and a book.

Related: 17 Resort-Ready Staples From Amazon That Are *Actually* Worth It

You’ve booked the trip, blocked the calendar and now you’re staring at a closet full of clothes that feel wrong for poolside lunches and sunset dinners. The pieces from a few seasons back don’t quite fit the vibe, but you’re not about to drop a paycheck on a vacation wardrobe you’ll wear for one week. […]

The truth is, there is no other media quite as universally beloved as the Walt Disney Company. From theme parks to feature films, Disney has held a special place in our hearts since childhood. Why? Our entry point is the Disney animated films. In 1937, Disney released Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, changing cinema forever. With the release of Zootopia 2, there have been 65 theatrical animated features. Now, for clarity, those only fall under the main umbrella and do not include Pixar, Touchstone, or the like.

Within that monumental number, there have been groundbreaking, game-changing films like Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King. But for every smash hit, there was always a film or two that had been forgotten. And not the bad ones. The films that were near-perfect. Perhaps it was due to timing or got lost in the shuffle amid massive hits, but the films on this list are excellent entries in the Disney Vault.

‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ (2001)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Anything that came directly out of the Disney Renaissance would be highly scrutinized. If it veered away from the typical formula that made the ’90s sensational, it had to be good and with purpose. But some films, despite being good and exploring new frontiers, didn’t get the attention they deserved simply because they weren’t Disney musicals. One such example was 2001’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire. The film was a sci-fi adventure story in which Milo Thatch (Michael J. Fox), a linguist, joins a team of mercenaries in 1914 to find the sunken city of Atlantis. Guided by an ancient book, they discover a living, advanced civilization, leading to a conflict where Milo must protect the Atlanteans from his own crew’s greed. Atlantis: The Lost Empire was a beautifully distinct art style and an appealing story that focused on a genre mostly untapped by Disney animation.

Perhaps the reason the film has been forgotten, aside from the devoted Disneyphiles, is that it took major risks. First, it was a science fiction adventure story. It couldn’t be further away from the princesses that dominated the Disney Renaissance. Though, to be fair, Princess Kida (Cree Summer) technically is a Disney princess, so there was a way to tie it all back to the company’s previous success. Second, it was not a musical but a straightforward animated feature. It’s not what audiences wanted. Yet, if you examine the film as a singular entry, it was a unique departure from the traditional formula, where a Jules Verne-like steampunk aesthetic took charge. It was an impressive visual and technical achievement that blended the classic hand-drawn style with the emerging 3D CGI advancements. Atlantis: The Lost Empire is a film that didn’t deserve to be lost to time.

‘Brother Bear’ (2003)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

If there is one thing that Disney animation can do extraordinarily well, it is create an evocative atmosphere. The animators conduct extensive explorations to ensure they achieve visual perfection in their stories. You can enjoy a story, but you must feel fully immersed in the world and among the characters. It’s why you felt as if you were actually in the Pacific Northwest, namely Alaska, while watching Brother Bear. A truly touching film about family, set in a post-Ice Age Alaska, an impulsive Inuit youth named Kenai (Joaquin Phoenix) kills a bear in vengeance after it causes his older brother’s death. The Great Spirits punish Kenai by transforming him into a bear, forcing him to walk in the animal’s footsteps in order to become human again. Kenai bonds with an orphan cub, Koda (Jeremy Suarez), and eventually learns lessons of love and brotherhood. With a twist that only Bambi could dream of, Brother Bear had everything that should have worked to become an instant classic had it arrived at a completely different time.

With a string of non-musicals before it and the worldwide phenomenon that was Finding Nemo released only months prior, Brother Bear suffered the fate of Disney’s early aughts dark ages. Critics at the time seemed to want something bold and daring, yet the “safe” buddy-adventure story was reminiscent of classic Disney. There was significant cultural significance in that it explored a locale and community that had mostly been untapped in animation thus far. There was levity in the story, thanks to the side characters Rutt and Tuke, voiced by Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas, who drew inspiration from their classic comedy duo, Bob and Doug McKenzie. But most importantly, the songs were wonderful. Though it may not have been as significant as those found in Tarzan, the tracks from Phil Collins moved the story along thematically in a similar manner while also serving as wonderful standalone songs. Perhaps had the film taken off, “Welcome” would have become a top-tier Disney anthem. Nevertheless, despite the beautiful wilderness brought to life through classic animation and the rich emotional depth, Brother Bear arrived at the worst of times.

‘Meet the Robinsons’ (2007)

There has never been a Disney animated film that evokes the spirit of the man behind the mouse more than Meet the Robinsons. Visually striking with a captivating story, the science fiction film, as great as it was, did not find its place in the early aughts. Based on the 1990 children’s book A Day with Wilbur Robinson by William Joyce, the story centers around Lewis (Jordan Fry and Daniel Hansen), a brilliant young orphan inventor who travels to the future with a boy named Wilbur Robinson (Wesley Singerman) to stop a villain called Bowler Hat Guy (Stephen Anderson). After his inventions fail, Lewis finds a new perspective on failure, resilience, and family, ultimately learning to “Keep Moving Forward.” A genuine, heartfelt story about family, innovation, resilience, and letting go of the past, Meet the Robinsons featured a brilliant soundtrack, a bold animation style, and a profound discussion about adoption in the modern age.

Meet the Robinsons was a unique film in the sense that the story championed failure. Not as a knock, but as a means to never give up. It was a profound element of the story’s emotional core. Meet the Robinsons taught young viewers to keep trying because the risk is worth the reward. If that theme didn’t capture you, then certainly the lens of adoption and found family should have. Meet the Robinsons presents the lingering effects of the lack of unconditional love in early childhood. It may be used as a villain origin story, but it was meant to serve as a reminder of love’s power. Simply look at the eccentric Robinson family, as they highlighted that love and acceptance define family more than bloodline. A genuine hidden gem, Meet the Robinsons arrived during the transition to 3D animation, which would see massive success in the films that followed with the Disney Revival, including Tangled, Frozen, and Moana. Timing is everything, and for Meet the Robinsons, it didn’t get the great big, beautiful tomorrow it deserved. No better time than now to reexamine it!

‘Oliver & Company’ (1988)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Advertisement

There are many things that make a classic Disney animated feature: talking animals, iconic songs, and an accessible story. So, why then did Oliver & Company miss out on being the flag bearer of the Disney Renaissance? That question still remains, but Oliver & Company is that film that usually pops up in your mind much later when you list out Disney films. Perhaps only the important bridge as the transitional film from the dark ages to the Disney Renaissance, Oliver & Company took the classic Charles Dickens tale Oliver Twist and reimagined it as a modern story set in New York City. The story tells the tale of an abandoned, orphaned kitten named Oliver (Joey Lawrence) as he joins a gang of homeless dogs led by Dodger (Billy Joel) and their human owner, Fagin (Dom DeLuise), a petty thief indebted to loan shark Sykes (Robert Loggia). After being adopted by a wealthy girl named Jenny (Natalie Gregory), Oliver is caught between his new comfortable life and his loyalty to his street-smart friends. An ode to found family and the greatest city in the world, Oliver & Company taught us to ask, “Why should I worry? Why should I care?”

Oliver & Company was a high-energy, heartwarming tale of friendship and found family. While the ’80s NYC atmosphere was specific to the time and ultimately not “timeless,” the emotional core was. The voice cast predated the ’90s trend of including big-name stars. Billy Joel and Bette Midler?! And they get their own songs?! What could be better? It’s a shame that “Perfect Isn’t Easy” didn’t emerge as a lasting masterpiece. Disney IP, when it takes off, is exploited by every means possible— in the parks, as merchandise, in future media. Oliver & Company came and went without that care in the world because it was overshadowed greatly by its Don Bluth competitor, The Land Before Time, which arrived on the exact same date, and the extraordinary success of the next Disney animated film, The Little Mermaid. Even though both Oliver & Company and The Little Mermaid had a similar formula—a musical adventure based on a classic story—the latter launched the Disney Renaissance because it was escapism at its finest, calling back to the Disney princesses of yore. Oliver & Company is an important film in the larger discussion of Disney animation, but as a piece of cinema on its own, it’s sadly forgotten. Absitively posolutely!

‘The Great Mouse Detective’ (1986)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

The House of Mouse has been home to the world’s most famous rodent in animated history, Mickey Mouse. But for some reason, Disney in the late ’70s and ’80s expanded the world of mice with two mouse capers. First, in 1977, it was The Rescuers. Then, in 1986, it was The Great Mouse Detective. And it was the latter that was a fantastic tale. Based on the children’s book series Basil of Baker Street by Eve Titus and Paul Galdone, The Great Mouse Detective tells the story of the brilliant mouse detective Basil (Barrie Ingham) as he investigates the kidnapping of toymaker Hiram Flaversham (Alan Young) by a peg-legged bat named Fidget. Basil soon discovers the kidnapping is a plot by his nemesis, Professor Ratigan (Vincent Price), who forces Flaversham to build a robot queen to overthrow the Mouse Queen (Eve Brenner). A delightful adventure film set against the brilliant backdrop of London, The Great Mouse Detective invites children into the world of mystery in a fast-paced, witty manner.

Literally sandwiched between the film that nearly bankrupted the company and the beginning of the Renaissance, The Great Mouse Detective was better than the low point it was released within. Simply lost in the shuffle, The Great Mouse Detective also had competition against another mouse tale, An American Tail. That story of hope and the American Dream, unfortunately, tends to overshadow the Disney hit because the studio was seen in decline. This meant many brilliant elements of the film were discredited. There are many animated villains of the ’80s who get overlooked as Disney greats. We’re talking about you, The Horned King from The Black Cauldron, but another name often forgotten is the infamous Ratigan. He was a rodent that haunted your nightmares because he was so sinister. To be fair, his villain song walked, so tunes like “Gaston” and “Mine, Mine, Mine” could run. As an early animated Disney feature that began to integrate CGI into the animation, The Great Mouse Detective was ahead of its time.

‘The Rescuers Down Under’ (1990)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

If you ask the average person the order of Disney animated films released during the Disney Renaissance, most might say The Little Mermaid and then Beauty and the Beast. That answer would be wrong. There was a film, without princesses and musical numbers, that came in between. Remember the aforementioned The Rescuers? Well, they got a sequel that proved that sometimes Disney sequels can be better than the originals. The Rescuers Down Under took the titular mice from the 1977 film and dropped them into an extraordinary new world, the Australian Outback. Bernard (Bob Newhart) and Bianca (Eva Gabor) travel to the Australian Outback to save a young boy named Cody (Adam Ryen) from a villainous poacher, Percival C. McLeach (George C. Scott), who wants to capture an endangered golden eagle, Marahute, for money. Meeting comical albatross Wilbur (John Candy) and charismatic hopping mouse Jake (Tristan Rogers) along the way, the team sets off on a rescue mission like never before.

Disney films often include an educational element. It was true here as the Australian backdrop provided a wonderful dissertation on animal and environmental rights. An atmospheric wonder, The Rescuers Down Under is simply breathtaking. The film is a thrilling, fast-paced action-adventure that captures the spirit of the Outback and is highly regarded for its masterful cinematography. The soaring flight sequences should have inspired a roller coaster at Walt Disney World. The problem the film faced was not its quality, but facing off against one of the greatest family films of all time: Home Alone. Amid such steep box-office competition, The Rescuers Down Under is neglected. Then, because the Disney Renaissance is remembered for its musical formula, the film tends not to be lumped in with that timeline. A truly daring film that should have advanced more animated adventures, The Rescuers Down Under is also monumental as it was the first to employ the Computer Animation Production System, a digital scanning, ink, paint, and compositing system of software and hardware developed for Disney by Pixar. Historic to say the least.

‘The Sword in the Stone’ (1963)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

The Disney classics represent a very special place in cinema history. But when we discuss the classics, there tends to be a hierarchy based on popularity. And though this film has a presence beyond the screen and in the parks, it doesn’t get the attention it truly deserves. The Sword in the Stone chronicles the story of Arthur (Rickie Sorensen), nicknamed “Wart,” a young orphan, as he’s mentored by the wizard Merlin (Karl Swenson) and his owl, Archimedes (Junius Matthews). The film follows his transformation from a simple squire into a wise, worthy leader as he learns empathy, knowledge, and courage, culminating in his pulling a magical sword from a stone/anvil to become the rightful King of England. Based on the 1938 novel by T. H. White, The Sword in the Stone became Disney’s opportunity to explore medieval times sans the extreme violence through magic and merriment. A true brains-over-brawn story, The Sword in the Stone was an accessible coming-of-age story geared for boys.

A charming, character-driven narrative, the film’s shining moments come from its delightful humor. Every hero needs an antagonist. Here, it came in the form of Madam Mim (Martha Wentworth). Most Disney villains tend to be massive, boisterous presences. Madam Mim was an eccentric, vibrant villain who brought a chaotic energy. She served as a dynamite foil for Merlin, and yet, she is discredited as a top-tier baddie. As far as magic goes, there were very few Disney films quite as magical as The Sword in the Stone. “Higitus Figitus” is a darling moment that set the path for other magical production moments. With stylish animation, wholesome heart, and humor in the banter, The Sword in the Stone should have stayed in the same conversation as the likes of Sleeping Beauty before it and Robin Hood after, but it sadly did not. The more episodic narrative didn’t seem to be at its best. A leisurely stroll to the climax, Disney fans fondly remember the film simply by its presence in front of the carousel.

‘Treasure Planet’ (2002)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Science fiction action-adventure films were all the rage for two years straight in the world of Disney feature films. Following Atlantis: The Lost Empire came Treasure Planet. And though it’s safe to assume there was very little time to regroup and course correct, Treasure Planet relied on a slick hand-drawn and computer-generated mix to garner appeal. Taking the story from Robert Louis Stevenson‘s Treasure Island, Treasure Planet follows rebellious teen Jim Hawkins (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), who is given a holographic map to the legendary “loot of a thousand worlds” by dying pilot Billy Bones (Patrick McGoohan). He joins a space voyage aboard the RLS Legacy, bonding with the charismatic cyborg cook, John Silver (Brian Murray), who is secretly leading a mutiny. A daring tale of abandonment, rebellion, and emotional maturity crafted within a fantastic spacepunk aesthetic, Treasure Planet may have felt fresh to Disney, but the treasure was its heart.

Treasure Planet is one of the most beautifully created films of this Disney era. Through its marriage of 18th-century nautical bits and bobs with sci-fi elements, the film possessed a distinct visual vocabulary neverseen in a Disney animated feature before. Layering in a Celtic-inspired score with a memorable, thematic soundtrack, and Treasure Plant became something unique. It was a complex-looking film that happened to be quite mature. For some audiences, this type of escapism wasn’t what Disney was known for. X marked the spot, but the film never found its. Further, with other mature kid-centric films, like Harry Potter, to compete with, it was impossible to find the treasure at the box office. Treasure Planet was a passion project that found a cult following. As far as a Disney classic, it was lost in space.

Advertisement

Treasure Planet

Release Date

Advertisement

November 27, 2002

Runtime

95minutes

Advertisement

Director

John Musker

Writers

Advertisement

John Musker

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Anyone would expect the goriest horror film in existence to arise from a collaboration between a writer on The Boys, which has some of the gnarliest scenes on recent TV, and the director of The Hostel, a film that has been extensively described as having far too over-the-top torture. The last thing you would expect is a dark fantasy for children. Yet, in 2018, writer Eric Kripke and director Eli Roth teamed up to create the captivating mystery of The House With a Clock in Its Walls. It is based on a novel of the same name and almost acts as a gateway to horror-mystery in the vein of Goosebumps, as it balances dark elements with a Chosen One fantasy that any pre-teen will appreciate.

‘The House With a Clock in Its Walls’ Caters to Every Pre-Teen Fantasy

Like every pre-teen fantasy film, The House With a Clock in Its Walls revolves around a young boy, Lewis (Owen Vaccaro), who has recently lost his parents and is transferred to a new, unfamiliar school after moving in with his eccentric uncle Jonathan (Jack Black). He starts learning about his newfound powers as a warlock with the help of his uncle and their similarly gifted neighbor, Mrs Zimmerman (Cate Blanchett). The set-up is timeless, and Lewis is just quirky enough with his bowtie and a pair of goggles for anyone to be endeared by, especially as they start hunting for the elusive ticking clock hiding in the walls of Uncle Jonathan’s house.

On the surface, the film is a visual delight with enough whimsical elements to keep your attention and interest all the way through. Uncle Johnathan’s mansion is cluttered with golden automatons, textured drapes, and an ever-changing stained window, all with a steampunk finish that reminds us of a cozier version of His Dark Materials. Similarly, themes of coming-of-age, overcoming bullies, and the dangers of breaking certain rules drive the movie forward, which would undoubtedly appeal to most pre-teens. But for adults, the film still feels just as magical with the nostalgia of watching young Lewis fervently shake his magic 8-ball.

However, in this chaotic fantasy world, there are dark threads that make the film the perfect gateway to potentially spookier films for children. Like Goosebumps, the visuals may be an eclectic feast for the eyes, but with Halloween staples like talking jack-o-lanterns and creepier elements like a forbidden cabinet, the movie subtly introduces light-hearted horror themes. Even just the shots of the dozens of clocks ticking away on the mansion’s walls elicit a sense of something not being quite right. When the spirit of Lewis’ mother appears to warn him not to trust anyone, the atmosphere shifts into something more paranoid and sinister, turning what was initially just a house of curiosities into what feels like a sentient, haunted house.

Jack Black Is a Scene-Stealer in Eric Kripke’s Dark Fantasy

Tying the light and dark sides of this movie together is Black’s brilliant, comedic performance that can be so manic, it borders on unnerving. Just like the house, Uncle Johnathan appears vibrant and kooky, as if he came right alongside the magical furniture, but slowly devolves into someone we are suspicious of, especially due to his obsession with the elusive clock. Black’s recognizable delivery pairs beautifully with the frenetic energy in the air, but in The House With a Clock in Its Walls, he pulls back enough that we don’t quite trust him and his intentions with Lewis’ budding powers. He is ever the scene-stealer that elicits enough chuckles to make the familiar beats feel novel.

The House With a Clock in Its Walls certainly is not what we expect from a collaboration between Kripke and Roth, but it is a wonderful and homey collection of all the pre-teen magic elements we love. With Black’s characteristic performance ensuring we laugh throughout the film’s runtime, it is easy to get lost in the whimsical beauty and darker edges of the set design while cozying up to the familiar beats of a classic Chosen One story.

Not every Alan Ritchson role involves punching people through furniture, though it is understandable if your brain goes there first. This one swaps brute-force action for a much softer, more emotional kind of story. It is still about someone moving mountains, technically, but this time the mountains are medical bills, grief, a snowstorm, and the crushing helplessness of watching a child need help you cannot afford. Slightly fewer broken bones, significantly more tears.

Ordinary Angels is now streaming on Peacock, giving the 2024 drama a new wave of attention. Based on true events during the 1994 North American cold wave, the film follows Sharon Steves, a struggling Kentucky hairdresser who finds renewed purpose when she helps Ed Schmitt, a widowed father trying to care for his two daughters while his youngest waits for a liver transplant. The movie grossed around $20.5 million worldwide against a reported $12–13 million budget, which is the exact kind of result small studios want when they put out a film like this. Nice and reliable.

The cast includes Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby, Boys Don’t Cry) as Sharon Steves, Emily Mitchell (Priscilla) as Michelle, Skywalker Hughes (Joe Pickett) as Ashley, Nancy Travis (Last Man Standing, So I Married an Axe Murderer) as Barbara, Tamala Jones (Castle, What Men Want), and Drew Powell (Gotham, Straw Dogs).

Is ‘Ordinary Angels’ Any Good?

Ritchson, who’s earned praise for his action roles, is being recognized here for something entirely different. As Collider’s Taylor Gates noted in our review, Ritchson does a great job of delivering even under the constraints of a trope — “the macho construction worker with a warm heart under all his muscles” — but it’s the writing of the film that ultimately lets it down. However, comparing Ritchson to David Harbour or Pedro Pascal in Stranger Things and The Last of Us, Taylor felt that the movie was still worth seeing for Ritchson.

And he’s not alone in stealing hearts. Swank gives what many are calling her most moving performance in years, capturing Shannon’s chaotic energy and hidden pain with nuance and grit. Her chemistry with Ritchson brings both levity and fire to an otherwise deeply emotional story, especially as the duo battles not just bureaucracy, but blizzards. It’s a strange but affecting film when the villain is terminal illness, not drug dealers, demogorgons or zombies.

Ordinary Angels is now streaming on Peacock.

Advertisement

Release Date

February 23, 2024

Advertisement

Runtime

118 Minutes

Director

Advertisement

Jon Gunn

Writers

Meg Tilly, Kelly Fremon Craig

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement