There’s no negating the fact that Weezer completely reformatted the rock industry. Consisting of Rivers Cuomo, Patrick Wilson, Brian Bell, and Scott Shriner, their ability to tell stories with wit and mastery pioneered geek rock. Because of this, many know Cuomo as the eccentric frontman who gave Weezer the eclectic touch necessary to solidify them as everlasting legends. However, what many don’t know about Cuomo is just how impressive his academic background is.

Alongside selling over 35 million records worldwide, Cuomo studied classical composition and English literature at Harvard University, attending between Pinkerton and The Green Album. Here’s a deep dive into how the lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter also proved himself to be academically brilliant, and how his time in Ivy League helped reshape the band’s sound completely.

Rivers Cuomo Attended Harvard After Finding Fame

Image via INSTARimages.com

When you’re at the height of new fame, you’ll typically dive deep into the rock star lifestyle and indulge in all the pleasures that come with money and status. However, for Cuomo, his interests skewed more academic. In the pursuit of higher knowledge, Cuomo enrolled himself at Harvard University in the fall of 1995, shortly after the success of Weezer’s debut, Blue Album.

Who’s Your Perfect Classic Rock Band?

He studied Classical Composition, English and American literature intermittently through 2006, balancing his studies with recording music and touring the globe. He made this pivot as quiet from public knowledge as possible, as he was genuinely serious about academics and longed to escape the identity of being a rock star. The experience ended up being as spiritually expansive as he’d hoped, often describing Harvard as a time in which he was surrounded by intelligent, motivated people and was able to bask in the freedom of living somewhat anonymously.

Cuomo’s Experience at Harvard University

Cuomo’s time at Harvard wasn’t all success. In fact, it may have indirectly served as the darkest period of his life. During his time as a student, Cuomo underwent leg-lengthening surgery to correct a difference in the length of his legs. Not only was it painful, but it left him handicapped for a good amount of time, only able to have mobility with a brace and cane. He spent time recovering in isolation and became deeply self-conscious about the deterioration of his appearance.

This experience helped shape one of Weezer’s most famous albums, Pinkerton. Cuomo became isolated, introverted, and frustrated while on campus, journeying through the pain of his recovery while adjusting to life using a cane. That alienation bled into the music, birthing a darker, more personal album that encapsulated the feeling of becoming a stranger to yourself. Songs like “Across the Sea,” “The Good Life,” and “Pink Triangle” were directly influenced by his suffering as a lonely student surrounded by a sea of people he could not quite connect with.

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Bob Dylan’s 1962 Debut Album Wasn’t a No. 1 Hit 64 Years Ago—but Became a Folk Classic

He didn’t start off so strong.

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The years he spent at Harvard coincided with Weezer garnering more and more fame. Many of his academic peers would wear his band merch without the knowledge that they were sitting right next to Cuomo himself. Walking with a cane and donning a beard that made him almost unrecognizable, he avoided the frenzy of fandom by living a life in disguise.

Yet, despite the trials, Cuomo accomplished exactly what he set out to do. In 2006, over a decade after he first enrolled, Cuomo graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Nothing about his pursuit of academia, nor his health trials, interfered with Weezer continuing to dominate the industry and master a distinct sound. In fact, his time at Harvard was essential in Weezer becoming the band we know today. Cuomo had once planned to make Weezer’s sophomore project, a concept album about characters in space, inspired by operas and musicals he had been listening to while touring. However, after becoming a student, Cuomo’s songwriting simply needed to become more personal and confessional, because he had new emotions to expel. Had he never attended Harvard, it’s likely that Pinkerton would have sounded completely different, or maybe not have existed at all.

Amid Shia LaBeouf‘s recent arrests and mounting charges, his ex-wife, Mia Goth, has reportedly come to terms with the difficult truth that his situation is one she cannot fix.

The “Transformers” actor was arrested twice in New Orleans last month and now faces multiple counts of simple battery following a bar altercation.

His downward spiral comes after his split from the “Frankenstein” actress. The pair had been together since 2012, briefly separated in 2018, and later reconciled, welcoming a daughter. Late last year, they finally went their separate ways. 

As his troubles continue to escalate, Goth is said to have accepted that helping him is beyond her control.

Mia Goth Reportedly Steps Back From Shia LaBeouf’s Legal Issues

According to sources close to Goth, she has come to terms with the limits of her involvement in LaBeouf’s ongoing struggles, despite still caring deeply for him.

“She’s aware what’s going on with Shia, but there is nothing she can do to help him,” one insider told People Magazine.

Instead, Goth has redirected her energy toward raising their daughter and focusing on her career, choosing to focus on things she has “control over.” 

The insider further described LaBeouf’s and Goth’s relationship as a “sad situation,” noting that her concern for LaBeouf has remained unchanged despite everything that has unfolded.

“She’d love for them to be together as a family,” the source added. “She really cares about Shia. It was just not a good situation.”

Goth’s acceptance of the circumstances comes weeks after reports surfaced that she had urged LaBeouf to seek help for his drinking problems.

The “MaXXXine” actress is said to have encouraged him to enter rehab to manage his issues out of genuine concern. Although they are no longer together, Goth reportedly continues to look out for him and wants him to remain present in their daughter’s life. 

Police Were Called To Shia LaBeouf And Mia Goth’s Home Before Their Separation

While Goth remains concerned about LaBeouf’s well-being, his legal troubles have also brought details of their past relationship to light, including a reported incident shortly before their breakup.

According to The Blast, police were dispatched to LaBeouf and Goth’s Los Angeles residence following a 911 call that alleged a stalking incident and disturbance of the peace.

Pasadena Police Department records show officers responded to the emergency call on November 2, 2024, at approximately 11:12 p.m. local time.

The documents described an “uncooperative female” caller who was attempting to get her husband to leave the property. No formal statement was taken since the situation did not escalate further, and authorities ultimately classified the incident as a verbal altercation. 

Why Mia Goth Walked Away From Shia LaBeouf

More details have emerged about what led to the breakdown of the relationship, with sources saying Goth was the one who called it quits. 

“Mia broke it off with him because his behavior was erratic, and she didn’t want to deal with it anymore, as they were always getting into fights,” one source said, according to The Blast.

Another source claimed that LaBeouf’s personality also added to the cause of the strain, describing him as an “intense individual, and not the easiest person to be with.”

They added that his friends and colleagues have even found it difficult to handle him. 

The  Former Child Actor Was Spotted Kissing Another Woman 

With his relationship with Goth ended, LaBeouf appeared to have gotten into another one just right after. The Blast reported that he was spotted getting cozy with an unknown woman at a New Orleans club after his detention. 

As seen in the photos and videos of the duo, LaBeouf appeared in high spirits as he stood hand-in-hand with the woman, openly being touchy. She placed her hand on his chest while smiling up at him, and he leaned down to whisper in her ear before kissing her.

Eyewitnesses reported that the two locked lips multiple times throughout the night, hugged tightly, and at one point, LaBeouf even attempted to lift her off the ground while embracing her.

Shia LaBeouf Was Previously In A Confrontation With His Girlfriend 

LaBeouf has also continued to make headlines over his public confrontations, including a recent incident involving a girlfriend.

A viral clip captured the 39-year-old actor shouting “F-ck off” during an argument, while the woman appeared unbothered by his outburst.

Moments later, he was seen continuing to yell down the street as she walked away. However, just days later, The Blast reported that the pair were spotted together again, appearing relaxed and in good spirits, suggesting the tension had eased.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 19 seconds ago

Sometimes, there are interesting stories about Star Trek’s main characters. For example, Wesley Crusher was Gene Roddenberry’s self-insert OC, which is part of why he was a teenage super genius who always knew how to instantly save the day. Unfortunately, minor characters don’t usually have much of a story behind them beyond, say, why the writer thought their name was cool.

However, the same can’t be said for Samantha Wildman, the fan-favorite supporting character on Star Trek: Voyager. Accomplished science officer and mother of the popular Naomi Wildman, Samantha proved to be a wonderful addition to the series. However, this character wouldn’t have been created at all if not for one of the show’s writers wanting to honor a little girl whose death saved his wife’s life.

A Pregnant Character Is Born

Samantha Wildman has the interesting distinction of being the first Voyager crew member to give birth in the Delta Quadrant. She announced her pregnancy in “Elogium,” which was also her very first appearance in the series (she would later go on to be a mainstay supporting character). That episode was originally pitched by Jimmy Diggs, who has his own interesting distinction: he successfully pitched more Star Trek episodes than any other freelancer in franchise history.

It was easy for Diggs to pitch Star Trek stories because his own life was filled with so many crazy tales. For example, he was a Vietnam veteran who always remembered the surreal sight of fish (thousands and thousands of them) flocking to his naval ship during a starless, moonless night. As they glittered in the water, he felt like he was traveling through the stars, and this event later inspired “Elogium.” Before he pitched the episode, though, Diggs had to face something infinitely scarier than the war: the likelihood that his wife would die.

An Unsung Hero, Revealed

She desperately needed a kidney transplant. As with everyone who needs an organ, Diggs and his wife had to deal with the fear that she would not get the kidney in time and would die. Eventually, she got the organ she needed, but in a very bittersweet way. You see, the kidney was only available because of a little girl who had died in an accident.

Understandably, Jimmy Diggs was very moved by the young girl who, even in death, managed to save his wife’s life. The Samantha Wildman character was named after this little girl, giving her a kind of unexpected second life as a sci-fi icon. Ensign Wildman became a very popular character, so Star Trek fans have (knowingly or not) kept that young girl’s legacy alive for decades. Even her specialty aboard Voyager honors the sacrifice of this little girl. Her parents told Diggs that she really liked animals, so Diggs incorporated this aspect into the new character’s background. That’s how Ensign Wildman ended up a xenobiologist aboard the ship!

As you can see, Samantha Wildman is more than just another fun, supporting character in Star Trek. She is also honoring the legacy of a young girl whose death saved a woman’s life, effectively embodying the franchise’s highest ideals. The real Samantha Wildman, like Kirk before her, helped turn death into a fighting chance to live for Jimmy Diggs’ wife. Now, she will live forever in sci-fi’s best franchise, continually inspiring all of us to do everything we can to make the world around us a better place. 

Brandy is reframing how the world views one of her most famous relationships. In her new memoir, ‘Phases,’ she shuts down suggestions that she was a “fast girl.” Instead, Brandy says Boyz II Men singer Wanya Morris took advantage of her being a child “in over [her] head.” The revelation has fans on both sides sounding off. Additionally, an alleged past interview of Morris admitting to being intimate with an underage Brandy is going viral.

she’s arrived. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/iGFnFZAN3H

— DE’RON 🌞 (@deronworld) April 1, 2026

RELATED: Shyne Reacts After Ray J Says He’ll “Slap The Daylights” Out Of Him & Mase For Claiming They Allegedly Dated Brandy At The Same Time

Brandy Was “Not A Fast Girl” Chasing After Wanya Morris

Back in 1995, ‘Brokenhearted’ by Brandy and Wanya Morris became a Billboard Hot 100 hit. It was the remix to the song released on her debut album, ‘Brandy.’ After collaborating, their friendship turned into something to be hidden from her parents. She lied to them constantly, she reportedly admits in her memoir ‘Phases.’

“They barely liked the idea of me dating at all, and telling them about us was out of the question,” Brandy wrote, per PEOPLE.

Brandy also admitted that she and Wanya knew “with diamond-cut clarity that public knowledge of [their] relationship would “ignite scandal.” Being out in the open, her being a minor and him in his early 20s, could mess both of their careers up. So, they pretended to have waited until she was 17. In reality, she lost her virginity to him while still a minor. She wrote of the red flags she missed or chose to ignore because she believed she was in love. They split up after he admitted to cheating on her. Since then, Brandy writes, Wanya Morris has framed her as a schoolgirl with a crush that didn’t come through. But that’s not the real narrative, Morris “took advantage,” she said.

“The shame ends here. The silence ends here,” she adds of coming to terms with the feeling that she was manipulated into and throughout the relationship. “I was not a fast girl with a crush. I was not a dramatic teenager who couldn’t handle rejection. I was not an unstable obsessive fan. I was a child. And he was an adult. And it’s time the world understood the difference,” Brandy wrote in ‘Phases,’ per PEOPLE.

Wanya Speaks Of Being Intimate With Brandy In Resurfaced Interview, She Shares Her POV In Memoir 

Amid the release of Brandy’s memoir, fans have dug into Wanya Morris’ past comments about their relationship. One ‘Breakfast Club interview, allegedly from 2014, is being covered across hip hop outlets, including Hollywood Unlocked and ‘The Morning Hustle.’ The clip is going viral because it shows Wanya Morris speaking of having sex with Brandy. After being asked whether Brandy was a minor when they slept together, he said, “We did the thing when she was 16, 17…She was old enough to get it.” Later, Morris explained they were in a relationship that grew and un-grew. Elsewhere, in an Instagram Live that circulated in 2020, Wanya Morris seemed to deny being involved when Brandy was a minor.

Meanwhile, in ‘Phases,’ Brandy paints a different picture. She says the sexual element of their relationship was Wanya Morris getting what he wanted from a young girl who didn’t recognize “she was being used,” per Entertainment Weekly. She reportedly wrote, “I think he saw me as conquerable. As someone whose boundaries could be negotiated away. I was in over my head.” She also explained that while she wanted to wait until marriage, she thought sex with him would “cement [their] bond.”

“I was young and inexperienced, and thought that following my heart meant following his lead, that what we shared transcended ordinary rules and limitations,” Brandy wrote, per EW. She said having sex felt like it, “Would prove I was mature enough for our relationship. Would make him happy. And so, I told myself I was ready. That this was my choice. But the truth is I felt like I had no choice. I felt like saying no meant losing him.”

Social Media Sounds Off About The Age Gap Issue

Aside from reactions to ‘Phases,’ the resurfaced clips of the Boyz II Men singer speaking on his past with Brandy are also catching heat.

I look back at when I was 22 yrs old. I would’ve felt like a nasty old man trying to be involved with a 16 yr old. What is wrong with these dudes?🤨 https://t.co/AsHso5JZwD

— FOST (@GeorgeFoster72) April 1, 2026

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wanya knew he shouldn’t have been dating a 16 year old brandy while in his 20s and then lied and said she was 18 cause his ass knew he was wrong, let’s not forget how he was on the breakfast club saying she was “old enough to get it” like HUH? i’m glad brandy woke up this tea.

— lauren ꨄ︎ (@J0DECIDAL) April 1, 2026

It was time for us to put this to bed. For good. I am so proud of Brandy and her courage here. https://t.co/tbyQXjoF2C

— Gerrick Kennedy (@GerrickKennedy) March 31, 2026

Wanya being 22 while Brandy was 15-16 is absolutely crazy.

Grown ass man with a child and even went as far as being the one she trusted with her virginity.

That’s foul. IDC how long it’s been.

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That’s foul. And all these years been lying saying she was 18.

Nah dawg.

— ERIC LAMONT (@BlameEricLamont) March 31, 2026

The comments on literally every platform on instagram that’s talking about this Brandy/wanya situation are truly disgusting. So many people, women especially, are calling her everything but a child of God, and wanya escapes blame yet again.

— Mille👩🏽‍❤️‍💋‍👩🏽 (@millesbabies) April 1, 2026

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in retrospect, it’s wild how cruel the media was to underage Brandy and Aaliyah with regard to their upsettlingly high-profile “relationships” with grownass men. I hate how dedicated folks were to perpetuating the “fast” stereotype rather than hold these men accountable. https://t.co/EEXdCpPQSX

— champagne and cherri, babÿ (@cherrilizabiff) March 31, 2026

we had Demi, KeKe, and now Brandy. i’m so glad these women are standing up and speaking out about how they were prayed on

keep exposing these predators https://t.co/xBsjpJaAuq

— 𝕛𝕒𝕟𝕖𝕒 (@heyyitsjanea) April 1, 2026

RELATED: Keke Palmer And Demi Lovato Reflect On Dating Older Men As Teenagers (VIDEO)

A California doctor, Dr. Hong-An Jan, is reportedly facing a felony charge and a lawsuit after a days-old baby, Charles Wang, allegedly died following a circumcision procedure.

RELATED: Prayers Up! 1-Year-Old Reportedly Dies After 14-Year-Old Mom Allegedly Crashes While Under The Influence

Officials Charge California Doctor After Newborn Dies Post-Procedure

Prosecutors have reportedly charged Dr. Hong-An Jan with felony involuntary manslaughter in connection with the 2024 death of newborn Charles Wang. The infant was reportedly between two to three days old, per conflicting reports from Law & Crime and other outlets. PEOPLE reports that Jan allegedly injected a synthetic opioid into Charles on Feb. 27, 2024, at his private clinic in Garden Grove. According to WGXA, the baby’s toxicology report showed high levels of Demerol, a Schedule II narcotic painkiller, instead of the required anesthetic Xylocaine.

Law & Crime says Charles’ parents noticed the newborn seemed lethargic and unresponsive after the circumcision. However, Dr. Jan reportedly advised them that it was “normal” and “not a cause for concern.” However, the next day, doctors pronounced Charles dead after his parents rushed him to the hospital. Doctors determined that acute Demerol intoxication led to bronchopneumonia, which purportedly caused Charles’ death.

Newborn Baby’s Parents React To Tragic Loss

Charles’ parents, Yiqi Wang and Hongyu Lu, have reportedly filed a civil lawsuit against Dr. Hong-An Jan. They are accusing him of wrongful death, medical malpractice, and fraud. Jan previously oversaw Hongyu Lu’s care during childbirth, and he later allegedly advised the parents to have Charles circumcised the day after he was born.

“Jan only looked at Charles and reassured his parents that these symptoms were normal post-circumcision reactions and advised them to return home,” the suit claimed, per the Los Angeles Times. “He did not take any blood samples or order any laboratory studies, even though he observed the symptoms … symptomatic of opiate substances.”

What’s Next For Dr. Hong-An Jan?

Dr. Hong-An Jan reportedly pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter on Feb. 19 and is set to appear in court on May 1 for a pre-trial hearing. Also, a court order reportedly suspended Jan’s medical license on Feb. 19, 2026.

RELATED: Atlanta Couple Awarded $2M After Doctor Allegedly Shared Graphic Pic Of Decapitated Baby On Social Media

90 Day Fiance, Elise Benson loses it in a bar when she’s had enough of Josh Lawson‘s emotional connection to his gal pal Nat. Aviva Duhamel gets a no from a pregnancy test but says yes to Stig Da Artist’s proposal. Forrest is giddy the morning after he loses his V-card to Sheena. And Lisa gets cleansed in a bizarre ritual. Let’s take a closer look at the crazy in this recap of Season 8, Episode 16 Mile High Club.

90 Day Fiance: Elise Benson’s Jealousy Gets The Best of Her

On 90 Day Fiance, Elise Benson just can’t shake her suspicion over Josh Lawson’s relationship with best friend Nat. After a fight, the pair move forward claiming they are falling for one another. But it isn’t long before Nat comes up and it’s really bugging Elise. Josh is a yacht broker. His job is on notice after he took a company yacht on a joy ride and crashed it. Elise Benson wants the details. And it seems Nat was on board on the fateful day in question.

Elise Benson grills Josh. He says the damage to the boat wasn’t as bad as he initially thought. And he’s already paid it off. In spite of his irritation, Elise isn’t sold that there’s not more to his relationship with Nat than meets the eye. Josh suggests they all go out for drinks and try to come to some sort of common ground and get along. Elise Benson agrees but gets a dig in when Josh wants to shower. She suggests he’s “got to shower for Nat”.

Everyone is polite at first as the trio gathers at a bar. But it isn’t long before Elise Benson starts jabbing at Nat on 90 Day Fiance. She wants to know why they constantly text. And claims Nat has a financial hold on Josh. This angers Nat and Elise suggests she will ask the opinion of all the bar patrons. She starts screaming about the situation and a few agree with her that it’s crazy. But it’s Elise Benson who looks crazy and Nat bolts after declaring her toxic. And it’s Nat who Josh runs after the embarrassing scene.

90 Day Fiance: Aviva Duhamel says Yes to Stig Da Artist

Before The 90 Days couple Aviva Duhamel and Stig Da Artist share a tense 5 minutes awaiting the results of a pregnancy test. Aviva is hopeful for a positive result. Stig Da Artist plays along but admits in an aside he doesn’t think they are quite ready yet. They huddle together over the test and a result finally comes through: one line. In other words negative. They comfort each other and Stig suggests an outing to the Mayan Ruins to cheer up.

The ruins impress Aviva. And the pair decide to go to the very top of a tall structure. But halfway there he surprises Aviva by getting down on one knee. He proposes, promising to be loyal to Aviva forever. She is overjoyed and didn’t want to leave Belize without a ring. So, of course she says yes. The couple then continue their climb to the top and Aviva flashes her ring celebrating her engagement to the Belizean pop star.

Before The 90 Days: Forrest and Sheena Get Closer

Forrest is feeling confident after standing up to his mom Molly and choosing to stand by Sheena’s side. But now it’s time to take things even further for the 90 Day Fiance couple. First steps to the future include finally consummating the relationship. A big deal since they are both virgins. Forrest arranges a getaway complete with rose petals on the bed. He’s also armed himself with some protection. Sheena changes into lingerie and it’s game on.

In a cringe bout of TMI Forrest is giddy the morning after. While he found it sloppier than expected, he is on cloud nine with Sheena, his “vixen of the internet”. The encounter has made him even more sure that he can’t bear to be away from Sheena. So he makes the choice to stay in the Philippines since without a job the K-1 visa is out of reach. But first they have to tell Molly and it won’t be easy.

TLC Couple Lisa and Daniel Go Through a Crazy Ritual

It’s never boring when it comes to Before The 90 Days couple Daniel “Tito” Herrera and Lisa. Between crazy uncles, lion kings, past secrets and wig wars, the pair are exhausted. But yet another crazy situation arises. After Lisa divulged her long history with her “fellow women” and a still pending divorce, the ancestors call for a cleansing. Which involves a distressed bleating goat, large root vegetables, spitting out schnapps and screaming all while ringing a bell.

It’s tough to watch. The “cleansing” also involves Lisa forking over even more money in addition to buying the goat and yams. After the migraine inducing scene, the couple leave with the permission to move forward with a marriage. Of course after she finalizes her fifth divorce.

90 Day Fiance: Trish’s Dad Demands Rick Makes a Decision

Rick Van Vactor is getting used to village life on 90 Day Fiance. Trish takes him on a quaint trip to buy vegetables and fruits at local stands. She used to actually sell fruits with her grandmother at one of the stalls. She reminds him that her dad wants answers about whether Rick will have children with her. He waffles and wants more time. Trish explains how important the experience would be for her since her mom left her as an infant.

It’s painful for Trish to explain that her mom took a new husband after leaving her dad when Trish was only one. And refused a ritual that would allow her to see her children. Rick consoles her. But still has to face her father. It doesn’t go well when Rick balks and asks for more time. Her uncle says if he can’t give her children they will keep her. Her dad refuses to give him more time demanding a decision immediately. Till next time!

There is a time and a place for intense movies, and maybe that time is not right now. Other things are intense, and so if you get the chance to sit down and actually watch a movie, maybe intensity is best avoided. It’s understandable if you feel that way, and so if you’re after comfort, good vibes, and whatever the cinematic equivalent of a nice hug is, then the following movies have got your back.

Many of these aim to be crowd-pleasing, while others are a little more obscure and out-there, and maybe not conventionally entertaining, though undeniably easy to appreciate if you’re in the mood for something a little different. They’re not ranked in any particular order, either, since having to decide between which movie, say, is #6 and which is #7 can be stressful in itself, and stress is not what we’re here for right now.

10

‘Amélie’ (2001)

Image via UGC Fox Distribution

Essentially, Amélie is a movie about being nice. The titular character is withdrawn and has admittedly unconventional ways of being a good Samaritan to strangers, but that’s what she does anyway, and that’s what most of the movie shows her doing. She also has her own arc that involves falling in love and becoming less withdrawn in the process.

It’s all done without too much concern for story, or at least less concern for telling an intricate/unpredictable story than most movies out there. The approach works, and it’s helped by how stylish Amélie is, too. It’s a movie about niceness that also looks incredibly nice, with a bold use of color throughout and an overall energy that makes it feel quite fantastical at times, on top of being romantic and gently comedic.

9

‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)

Image via Studio Ghibli

My Neighbor Totoro is another movie that’s not about too much narratively, and that’s okay. It’s potentially the gentlest and most comforting of all the movies Hayao Miyazaki has directed, which is saying quite a lot, and it’s mostly about two sisters having to deal with a move to the countryside because their mother’s sick. And, while there, they discover fantastical creatures living in a nearby forest.

The animation here is as great as you’d expect, given the director and the fact that it’s a Studio Ghibli production, and My Neighbor Totoro is also great to just sink into, or let wash over you, if you can let a movie do that. The likes of Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke might be better films, but My Neighbor Totoro could well be the most worth checking out if you’re after a comfort watch.

8

‘Hot Rod’ (2007)

Image via Paramoutn Pictures

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Thoroughly committed to being as silly as possible for pretty much its whole runtime, Hot Rod is incredibly funny, and even the jokes that sort of miss the mark are endearing in their own ways. It’s a movie that just wants you to have a good time for a while, pretty much encouraging the turning off of one’s brain in the process, and something so purely and wholeheartedly comedic in tone is sometimes just what you need.

It’s an entertaining and chaotic movie about someone who’s obsessed with being a stuntman, but he’s not very good at actually doing stunts without getting hurt or causing destruction. There’s also something to be said about a movie that looked like it was fun to make, since that can rub off on the people watching it, proving sort of infectious, and Hot Rod is that kind of fun-looking (and feeling) film.

7

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ (1946)

Image via Liberty Films

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Doing everything you could ask for, from a Christmas movie, and maybe even a little more on top of that, somehow, It’s a Wonderful Life is naturally going to be one of the first things that comes to mind when you hear the phrase “life-affirming movie.” And, no, not just because it was the word “Life” in the title, and also not because it’s nothing but good vibes for a couple of hours or so.

The vibes are eventually good, but It’s a Wonderful Life puts you through some turbulent stuff before then, and does the same for its main character, who slowly learns that he has more worth than he initially thought, largely thanks to some fantastical influences. There’s a tremendously rewarding and well-earned ending here, and even 80 years later, it’s still about as uplifting and cathartic as movies have ever gotten.

6

‘Paterson’ (2016)

Image via Bleecker Street

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In Paterson, there’s a man named Paterson, and he goes about what seems to be a pretty relaxed life, and it’s one he finds satisfaction in, even if it might look a little boring on the surface. And Paterson, the movie, might also sound a bit boring, if you lay it out in that way, even with that way being accurate to what it is and what it’s going for.

There’s plenty to like and appreciate here, though, once you get on the film’s wavelength. Paterson feels meditative and peaceful, and just being those things ends up being enough to make it genuinely compelling for a couple of minutes shy of two hours. Even watching a person go about a strict routine over the course of a week turns out to be compelling, if you’re a sufficiently good filmmaker (Jim Jarmusch) and equipped with a perfectly utilized Adam Driver.

5

‘Perfect Days’ (2023)

Image via Bitters End

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Another movie about a simple lifestyle and a routine being followed, Perfect Days is easy to compare to Paterson, but it’s about a man in a different profession living in a very different environment, too. While Paterson in Paterson was a bus driver, the protagonist of Perfect Days is a toilet cleaner, and his work – plus the other things in his life – take him around Tokyo.

It might sound cheesy, but Perfect Days is a movie about just enjoying and trying to appreciate small or seemingly insignificant things, and also being in touch with one’s emotional state. It manages to be very touching at times, even with the seemingly low stakes, and calling it, ironically enough, one of the most perfect movies in recent memory doesn’t feel hyperbolic.

Image via Universal Pictures

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With E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, there was both a noble and successful attempt to make a science fiction movie that could appeal to anyone, all centered on the unlikely friendship between a boy and an alien. The latter gets stranded on Earth, and the former endeavors to help him reconnect with his own kind and get him home, even if that’ll ultimately mean they have to part ways.

In that sense, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is bittersweet, and certainly feels quite sad at times for something that’s ultimately life-affirming, yet the emotional balance is pulled off perfectly here, and it’s the right kind of touching for such a film; emotional without being devastating and all that. If you want to see Steven Spielberg’s sentimental streak at its most effective, that’s exactly what you get here.

3

‘Cinema Paradiso’ (1988)

Since you’re reading (or maybe skimming over) an article about movies right now, there’s a pretty good chance you like movies, right? If you do indeed like movies enough to also enjoy movies that are about movies, then Cinema Paradiso is about as essential a watch as a film could be, since it might well be the ultimate movie about cinema that’s not a biographical/historical movie about the making of a specific film.

It’s more of a coming-of-age movie about a young boy who finds that cinema is a great escape from the hardships of the real world, and a way to connect with people, too. Also, even when finding a connection with others gets hard, later in life, the movies are always there for him, and the love for cinema keeps enduring in one way or another. Cinema Paradiso is also a good deal less cheesy than all those words might make it sound, but it’s hard to break down and analyze such a film; one you’re much better off just feeling instead.

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‘Toy Story’ (1995)

Image via Pixar Animation Studios

Since the sequels are a good deal more devastating (though not without some sweet to go along with the bitter), Toy Story, as in the original, is the one being singled out here. It’s also got a bit of sadness with the whole arc Buzz Lightyear goes through, which is somewhat heavy-going for an animated family movie, but it doesn’t overwhelm or prove suffocating when the rest of the movie is breezy and comforting.

Toy Story is a fun, colorful movie when you’re young, and to some extent, it’s still that if you watch it as an adult, but then you also appreciate what it’s going for beyond just entertainment once you’re of a sufficient age. Not that it’s deep by the standards of, like, arthouse cinema, though there is still a fair bit here to think about, which is cool considering it’s, at first glance, a kind of goofy kids’ movie about toys that come alive and talk.

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‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)

Image via MGM

Singin’ in the Rain is, out of all the classic Hollywood musicals, maybe the easiest to get into and appreciate. It’s got a breezy story about the film industry transitioning from silent movies to talkies, done in a way that’s a good deal more lightweight than, say, Babylon (which does reference Singin’ in the Rain, both the movie and the song of the same name, more than once throughout).

If you don’t usually like broad and cheery old-school musicals, it’s still worth watching Singin’ in the Rain, since it could well be the one to convert you. There’s a focus on comedy here, above all else, and then a bit of romance thrown in for good measure (not an overwhelming amount, though). It’s a film that wants you to have a good time, and one where it’s hard to imagine too many people watching it and not having that sort of experience throughout. It’s inherently (or maybe even intensely, for what it’s worth) likable, as a film.

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Singin’ in the Rain

Release Date

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April 11, 1952

Runtime

103 Minutes

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Director

Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly

Writers

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Adolph Green, Betty Comden

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Bold and the Beautiful spoilers for April 06-10, 2026 have Deacon Sharpe (Sean Kanan) terrified, Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) big mad, and also big baby news.

As we always do on early edition day, we start with what’s coming this week and then dive into what is ahead next week.

Bold and the Beautiful Spoilers Wednesday, April 1st: Hope and Deke Confront Deacon

So, on Wednesday, April 1st, we’ve got Hope Logan (Annika Noelle) Deke Sharpe (Harrison Cone) and heading over to Il Giardino and going upstairs to have a sit down with Deacon at his place. Looks like Hope and Deke are worried. So, I think that Deacon is going to come completely clean about nearly everything that went down at Steffy’s place with Taylor Hayes (Rebecca Budig) because a very concerned Deke repeats it back to his dad.

So, Sheila Carter (Kimberlin Brown) showed up in Taylor’s bedroom doorway holding a freaking knife. And Deke tells Deacon, “Hello, is that not a huge wakeup call? And Deacon is definitely looking worried for good reason. Hope also tells Deacon that she and Deke know how much Taylor means to him. But after this, Hope asked her dad how can he think that Sheila is not on to him.

Steffy meanwhile worries about Taylor’s safety and Steffy is telling Taylor that Deacon married a lunatic and that’s on him, not on Taylor. But an irate Steffy is pushing on that ultimatum again because she is genuinely scared for her mom’s safety. But Taylor is in love and acting like a starry-eyed teenager and is not as afraid as she should be.

B&B Spoilers: Sheila’s Putting the Pieces Together

It’s all starting to make sense to Sheila. So, on Wednesday, she asked their delivery person at Il Giardino if he made a delivery out to Steffy and Finn’s (Tanner Novlan) place. And the guy says he has delivered to Finn a bunch of times, but not last night. Sheila thinks that that pizza box is a smoking gun, but this is a rewrite of history. If you watch Bold and the Beautiful regularly, you’ll know Finn gets carry out from Il Giardino all the time.

I do not recall him and Steffy ever getting or mentioning Il Giardino delivery. They have to be way outside their delivery zone because they’re all the way out in Malibu versus Il Giardino downtown LA. They also mentioned before that Finn drives all that way to pick up his favorite pizza and we’ve seen him there avoiding Sheila whenever Finn picks up the order. So, this is a rewrite.

Anyway, so I do wonder if Sheila’s going to see Hope when she’s there with Deke to talk to Deacon because Sheila may corner Hope and, you know, if she starts asking questions and if Hope and Deacon didn’t get their story straight beforehand about what went on the night they were supposedly having dinner, you know, where they went, what they ate, that’s trouble. Now, Deacon told Sheila he went home early, but still they had plans and they should be able to answer questions about them.

Bold and the Beautiful Spoilers Thursday, April 2nd: Steffy Tears Into Deacon

Thursday, April 2nd, we have Deacon feeling Steffy’s wrath. She is face to face with Taylor’s boyfriend. And Steffy is tearing into Deacon for coming to her house and putting Taylor at risk and about his psycho wife Sheila waving a knife around.

And Steffy may rant that if Sheila had caught Deacon there, Sheila could have killed Taylor and possibly him. Bottom line is Steffy’s at her limit and she wants Taylor to stay away from Deacon for good. And now Steffy wants to make sure Deacon sees the danger and prioritizes Taylor’s safety over wanting to hook up with her.

This week, also, Brooke Logan (Katherine Kelly Lang) is going to chat with her son RJ Forrester (Brayan Nicoletti) in the showroom at Forrester Creations and she is fishing for information on his love life. And looks like that Brooke has changed her tune a little.

If you recall, when RJ first came back to LA, Brooke had warned RJ he needed to stay away from Electra Forrester (Laneya Grace) because she was with Will Spencer (Crew Morrow). But now she knows Electra and Will have split. And Brooke’s basically telling RJ to go for it. Brooke tells RJ that Electra is the woman that he deserves.

That’s factual, but I don’t think in the way that Brooke meant it. And Electra finds out something about Ivy Forrester (Ashleigh Brewer). I’m wondering if Daphne Rose (Murielle Hilaire) going to hint to Electra that maybe Ivy is not as trustworthy as Electra thinks. I don’t think she’d listen if Dylan (Sydney Bullock) tried to tell Electra the truth.

Bold Spoilers Friday, April 3rd: Sheila Back to Old Habits

Then on Friday, April 3rd, we’re going to wrap up this week with Ivy telling Electra it’s time to move on with her life, move on with someone wonderful like RJ. And Ivy is doubling down on matchmaking RJ and Electra. And it looks like it is working because RJ and Electra kiss again.

This time in the design office. And they look pretty smitten and cuddly. I wonder if Will is going to see them or Dylan. I wouldn’t be surprised if Ivy is creeping and peeping on them like usual.

Sheila is back to her old habits on Friday. She may confront one or both of Taylor and Deacon now that she’s pretty sure that Taylor’s been doing bad things with Deacon. And I wonder if Sheila will get all dark and murdery.

Ridge Forrester (Thorsten Kaye) and Brooke see something that they should not. Lots of options. Could be Ivy creeping on RJ with Electra. Could be their son kissing his new girl. They may walk in on Daphne and Carter Walton (Lawrence Saint-Victor) doing some baby making at the office.

Week of April 6th-10th Bold and the Beautiful Spoilers

Then the week of April 6th through the 10th, we’re going to find out more soon about Bill Spencer (Don Diamont) and Katie Logan‘s (Heather Tom) scheduled Logan launch and what plans Brooke and Ridge are making to sabotage it so Eric Forrester (John McCook) is not further embarrassed.

I expect Deke to touch base with Katie about her offer to work at Logan and see if it still stands. He’s got all those sketches that Hope was raving about that she would like to have for Hope for the Future, but she can’t because she is stuck with Thomas Forrester (Matthew Atkinson) and Zende Forrester Dominguez (Delon De Metz). Plus, Dylan and Will get a whole lot closer, as do RJ and Electra, but there’s a ticking clock on both of those new relationships.

Bold and Beautiful Spoilers: Deacon Protects Taylor

Deacon tries to protect Taylor. That is true, but Sheila may come after her anyway. You know, Deacon may try and sacrifice himself. This is getting really messy. I actually hope that Sheila truly has changed and doesn’t go all insane. But of course, everybody’s scared of it and expecting it. So, it’d be a nice twist if it didn’t happen. But next week, Steffy fears the worst.

And Daphne can’t keep sitting on the truth and keeping it from Electra for much longer. Also, in the next couple of weeks, looks like Daphne and Carter get the results of a pregnancy test. They have been very busy getting busy since they got married because they both want a baby. You know, there’s been some rumors they might have some infertility issues and you know, maybe because that’s the soapy outcome, but I want to see Daphne and a cute little Carter baby.

Taylor may be sacrificing too much for love and puts herself in danger by refusing to ditch Deacon. And Taylor and Deacon are outed as cheaters soon and lots of people have opinions about it. Very strong opinions. We know Ridge already does and I’m sure he’s going to lose his mind again.

Bold and Beautiful April Spoilers: A Couple Splits for Good

Also, we’ve got one couple calling things off soon and this is a pair that were thought to be an excellent match. So, could be about Sheila and Deacon, although I think the common opinion was that they were a match made in hell, not a perfect pair.

Maybe it’s Will and Electra calling it officially and forever off. I mean, with B&B spoilers, they can be very bait and switch. So, we’ll see what couple that applies to soon.

By Jonathan Klotz
| Updated 1 hour ago

There’s been a lack of sci-fi action movies hitting theaters in the last few years, at least those that don’t involve superheroes or established franchises, which is why the Netflix original, War Machine, is a breath of fresh air. It’s predictable, and it can be boiled down to a modern retelling of Predator, but that’s not a bad thing. Starring Alan Ritchson, it’s an old-school sci-fi action story that does all the little things right, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants 80s action movies to make a comeback. 

A Modern Day Predator

Ritchson plays 81, known only by the number designation he receives when he applies for the Army Rangers following the death of his brother (Jai Courtney, making the most of his 4 minutes of screentime) years earlier in Afghanistan. War Machine doesn’t give the recruits any names, everyone has a number, but you’ll recognize some familiar faces, including Keiyan Lonsdale (Wally West from The Flash) as 60, and Daniel Webber (Lee Harvey Oswald from 11.22.63) as 57, along with the senior officers played by Esai Morales and Dennis Quaid. Don’t worry, it’s the type of movie where the moment a character seems important and we get some backstory, they’re the next ones to die. 

Doing the killing is a large, alien war machine that the Ranger recruits accidentally stumble upon during their final test. Slow but relentless, the war machine chases them through the wilderness, picking off soldiers by identifying them with a blue light, and then the red light is the sign that the guns are about to go hot. It’s a simple visual language that adds tension without the need for any explanation. No one points out how the war machine is “seeing” them, it just happens. 

War Machine embraces that “show, don’t tell” mentality throughout. It’s not only with the story, it’s the various horrible ways the soldiers die, including a brutal tumble down a cliff, and later, while attempting to escape in an armored transport that’s bouncing around and reacting to the explosive ordnance in a way most action movies would simply ignore. Rappelling, crossing a river, not wearing seat belts while the alien killing machine is chasing them, all of it makes the action brutal to watch in the best ways possible. 

The Birth Of A New Sci-Fi Franchise

Alan Ritchson’s 81 is a man of few words, but the Reacher star’s physical charisma carries him from the word go. The man was born to be an 80s action star. He has the television franchise locked up, and Fast X hasn’t led anywhere, but the early success of War Machine means we probably haven’t seen the last of 81. Richson and director Patrick Hughes have mentioned the name War Machines on social media. 

The odds are good that Netflix will greenlight the sequel, given how War Machine has been in the top ten movies for the entire month of March. These days, original sci-fi stories don’t have to do much to clear the bar, and War Machine isn’t for everyone. There’s no deeper meaning, no extensive lore, and not a whole lot to the plot, but with an under two-hour runtime and enough of the little things fans expect of action movies, there’s also no better way to kill an evening at home then relaxing, turning off your brain, and watching Alan Ritchson battle an alien invader. 

War Machine is currently streaming on Netflix.

You’re not imagining it: Basque-waist dresses are everywhere right now. Everyone from New York City ‘It’ girls to movie stars is donning the romantic dress trend that has no signs of stopping in 2026. While we saw inklings of the drop-waist style last year, the flattering design took off into overdrive due to the Wuthering Heights craze — and we’re not mad about it.

Basque-waist dresses first became popular during the Victorian era, and then stepped back into the fashion world, thanks to designers who put a new ‘cinched’ spin on the fairytale-esque style (See: Dior’s 1950’s New Look collection). And now? The look is back in a big way with A-listers slipping into the elongating design, including stars like Margot Robbie, who wore several basque-waist dresses during the 2026 Wuthering Heights press tour.

The vintage-looking dress has a V-like bodice cut that extends beyond the waist, giving you a slimming, lengthening appearance. The silhouette also accentuates curves and helps with proportions due to the round shape, making it ideal for petites and pear-shaped gals. It’s no wonder the style is so sought after. If you want to try it out for yourself, we found dresses from Lulus, Abercrombie & Fitch, Astr the Label and more that deliver the look without having to step back in time.

Romantic Basque-Waist Dresses for Spring

1. Our Favorite: Classic and gorgeous are just two ways to describe this Basque-waist dress. The fitted bodice and outlined cups give it a corset appearance without the wiring. We also like that the dress has a modern high slit to show off a bit of leg — a definite ‘no-no’ in the 1800s!

2. Runner-Up: The seersucker pattern on this midi tank dress makes Us think about the lazy-hazy-crazy days of summer, so naturally, we’re adding it to our cart. The high neckline and pleated design around the V-cut bodice give off a flattering effect that works in tandem with the vertical stripes, which are known for lengthening the body.

3. Mini Me: Basque-waist dresses don’t only come in midi and maxi lengths! This cute mini dress is proof. It has bow-tie straps, a U-shaped waist and a short skirt, which is ideal for warm spring and summer days. Plus, doesn’t the short top portion give off major Bridgerton vibes?

4. Transitional Staple: If it’s still too chilly to go sleeveless where you’re located, opt for this long-sleeved number, which gives you the same vintage style with a little more coverage.

5. Top-Seller: This milkmaid-style dress is what fairytale dreams are made of. The vibrant colors, floral patterns and form-fitted bodice are chef’s kiss. It’s no wonder the dress has over 1,200 five-star ratings to date.

Related: Abercrombie Dropped New Spring Getaway Finds, and Prices Start at $19

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If you’re anything like me, you and your closet thrive during the warm-weather months. The sun’s out, you’re wearing the cutest clothes and your mood is at its peak. I get it, because that’s literally my reality. Now, if your wardrobe is lacking a few spring essentials, Abercrombie & Fitch is coming in hot with […]

6. Everyday Essential: We’ll admit that the romantic dress style skews closer toward the elevated side, but this cap-sleeved pick makes it appropriate for everyday wear. You can thank the tee-like top for that.

7. Rich Mom: There’s no arguing about it: This halter midi dress looks far more expensive than its price suggests. We can totally see rich moms everywhere donning this dress for baby showers, church services and even weddings (just in a different color).

8. Anything But Basic: This simple yet stylish dress feels like it’s from another era, thanks to the puffed quarter-sleeved, gathered bodice and bow accent in the middle. Plus, the houndstooth pattern embodies that ‘mod’ swing look.

9. Low-Key Genius: The biggest flex about this basque-waist maxi is the bra-free design. Unlike other options on this list, the Abercrombie dress has hidden built-in coverage, so you can forgo the pasties before heading out the door.

10. Pop of Color: Another trend for spring is butter yellow everything. Celebrities like Martha Stewart wear the sunny color, which makes Us want to get this smocked sundress ASAP.

11. Quite the Charmer: Everyone will turn their heads when they see you wear this lace-up maxi dress. The Lulus wedding guest dress is perfect for every spring ceremony . . . and the overlay bodice will make you feel comfy while sitting, standing and dancing the night away.

12. Out of Office: Seeing a basque-waist dress in this fun, vacation-esque print wasn’t on our bingo card, but we’re totally here for it. It modernizes the Victorian style with a short ruffle hem, exposed U-neckline and bright color palette.

13. Date Night: Your little black dress just got a revamp with this drop-waist number that gives you an hourglass shape . . . without strapping into a painful corset. Oh, and the short bubble-like hem makes legs look so long, your date will think you’re a model. Win-win!

14. Spring Must-Have: We’re kind of in love with this flutter-sleeve dress from Lulus. The deep V-neckline, lightweight chiffon fabric and corset appearance feel very ethereal. You’re bound to get princess treatment while wearing this baby.

15. Expensive-Looking: Throw on this vintage-style halter dress, book a trip to Italy and cruise around town on a Vespa. Yes, in that order. Designed with a fold-over neckline, fit-to-loose silhouette and polka dot pattern, this stylish dress is one you’ll wear over and over — especially if you want that Emily in Paris look.