For nearly two decades, Avatar: The Last Airbender (ATLA) has left fans chasing the same feeling; not another elemental fantasy or another coming-of-age adventure, but another story where the action means something. Every bending duel in Avatar reflected a character’s personality, culture, and values just as much as their fighting style. Politics mattered. Family mattered. Even the biggest battles were usually about people before they were about power.

That’s exactly what makes Fonda Lee’s Jade City such an easy recommendation. On the surface, they look very familiar. They have a lot of East Asian influence, and both stories revolve around combatants who first acquire their awesome fighting abilities by years of martial arts training, rather than being naturally endowed with the ability to use magic freely. However, while Jade City draws on these elements, they are not what make it a great story to read, nor is it because it is reminiscent of Aang’s story, but that it realizes that in having power, also come the responsibilities, traditions, and impossible decisions associated with wielding that power, which is also evident in Avatar.

‘Jade City’ Treats Martial Arts as Culture, Not Just Action

Image via Fonda Lee

A key aspect of understanding Jade City is that jade not only replaces bending but also enhances the already trained abilities of Green Bone warriors on the island of Kekon; they have their strength, speed, reflexes, and senses increased by wearing jade. However, it is dangerous when used improperly by someone untrained or unable to handle jade, and it is also a very powerful item. Not everyone can safely wear jade, and therefore must undergo years of training or practice to control its use so that it does not overtake them.

That relationship with jade feels remarkably similar to the way Avatar approached bending. Neither content treats extraordinary abilities like flashy superpowers handed out for spectacle. They’re cultural traditions shaped by discipline, history, and expectation. A fight isn’t won because someone unlocks a convenient new ability. It’s won because they understand themselves — and their opponent — a little better than before.

Lee writes combat with the same philosophy. Every duel feels physical and deliberate, whether it’s a clean blade fight between rival Green Bones or a street brawl that erupts without warning. The action is exhilarating, but it’s never there simply to fill pages. Every punch, knife strike, and impossible leap changes relationships, shifts political alliances, or pushes a character closer to becoming someone they never wanted to be.

The Kaul Family Carries the Same Emotional Weight as Team Avatar

Image via Nickelodeon

For all the praise Avatar receives for its world-building, its greatest strength has always been its characters. Fans fell in love with this show because every member of Team Avatar brought a different perspective on duty, loss, forgiveness, and what it meant to build a better future. Lan assumes a leadership role during a tumultuous time as peace continues to erode; as he leads with compassion, he also has to make hard decisions called for by his current role. His brother Hilo is a famous warrior, and loyalty to his family is both Hilo’s greatest strength and his biggest weakness. Likewise, their sister Shae returns home to avoid clan politics, but finds that family obligations always pull you back in. Anden is also one of the strongest characters in the book, grappling with his identity and sense of belonging.

None of these characters fit neatly into the role of hero or villain. They make mistakes, lash out, and protect each other even when they’re furious with one another. Their relationships evolve naturally, and that’s what gives Jade City its emotional punch. It’s the same reason Zuko’s redemption remains one of fantasy television’s defining character arcs. Growth isn’t presented as inevitable, but it has to be earned.

One of Avatar‘s smartest decisions was refusing to separate personal stories from political ones. For instance, Ba Sing Se was fascinating because every political decision affected ordinary people living inside the city. Jade City‘s central conflict is a struggle over the future of Kekon itself. Foreign powers want access to the island’s most valuable resource; tradition collides with modernization; old heroes give way to a younger generation that no longer agrees on what their country should become.

If those themes sound familiar, it’s because they’re the same questions ATLA and, later, The Legend of Korra repeatedly asked. How much should a society change? What traditions deserve preserving? When does protecting your culture become holding it back?

Lee never pauses the story to lecture the reader. Those questions emerge naturally through boardroom negotiations, family arguments, gang rivalries, and spectacular martial arts confrontations that always have consequences beyond the fight itself. This story doesn’t attempt to repeat or recreate bending, nor does it introduce another chosen one who will save the world; instead, it gives the characters enough agency and power that they carry the full weight of the narrative, and builds a fantastical world in which, for example, loyalty to one’s family can be as dangerous as a weapon and every victory has a price. This is also how Avatar: The Last Airbender has become an unforgettable animation in its storytelling. Jade City tells the same kind of story, but from a different point in life, and it is an equally compelling narrative.

Taylor Swift’s wedding is already shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrity events in years, and the guest arrivals are proving just how massive the celebration will be. 

As famous faces continue pouring into New York from around the world, excitement surrounding the pop superstar’s upcoming wedding to Travis Kelce has reached another level. 

From A-list actors and music icons to sports stars, the growing guest list is making the Madison Square Garden ceremony look more like Hollywood’s biggest night than a wedding.

The early signs of chaos around the Taylor Swift wedding were already visible at JFK Airport, where guests began arriving in waves ahead of the ceremony. 

Swift had once joked during her engagement announcement that she would invite “anyone I’ve ever talked to,” and the arrivals suggest she may have meant it literally. 

The atmosphere around the airport has been described as unusually busy, with international flights bringing in familiar faces tied to music, film, and television.

According to the photos obtained by the Daily Mail, Graham Norton was among the first guests spotted. He arrived alongside his husband Jono McLeod. 

The images showed Norton looking exhausted but composed, luggage in hand as he entered New York. 

Swift Guest List Grows With Graham Norton Arrival And VIP Friendships

Norton’s arrival is no surprise to those who remember his BBC chat show appearance, where Taylor Swift openly discussed her engagement and the stress of narrowing down her guest list. 

It was during that interview that she mentioned inviting “anyone I’ve ever talked to,” a line that has now taken on new meaning as guests continue to arrive.

Also seen landing was Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who arrived with family in tow. Waller-Bridge has long been part of overlapping social circles with the Grammy winner and has attended several of her major public events, including the Eras Tour in London. 

Meanwhile, pop star Dua Lipa was already in the city, adding further weight to the growing lineup of global celebrities converging in New York ahead of the ceremony.

Taylor Swift Hollywood Names And Music Stars Converge In New York

The guest list continues to expand with major names from film and music arriving or being spotted across New York. 

Domhnall Gleeson, who once joked on-air about appearing in one of Swift’s videos, ended up starring in her “Opalite” project alongside figures such as Cillian Murphy, Greta Lee, Jodie Turner-Smith, and Lewis Capaldi.

That same creative circle is now expected to extend into the wedding, with Swift maintaining close ties with collaborators and friends who have appeared in her music videos and live performances. 

Music industry insiders also point to the presence of Ed Sheeran, who was recently seen dining in upstate New York with producer Aaron Dessner.

Swift has even joked in the past that it would be “hard to stop” Sheeran from grabbing the mic at the reception. 

With Stevie Nicks and Tim McGraw also reportedly set to perform, the reception could easily become an unforgettable concert featuring some of music’s biggest stars.

Swift Expands Her Wedding Guest List Beyond Hollywood

Taylor Swift’s invitation list extends well beyond Hollywood and the music industry. 

According to reports, she has also invited the five New York Knicks starters who recently helped lead their team to NBA championship glory.

Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart are all reportedly expected to attend the ceremony and celebration in Manhattan. 

Brunson has previously made no secret of being a devoted Swift fan, making his invitation especially fitting.

Earlier this year, reports revealed that the Knicks players reacted more enthusiastically to Swift attending one of their games than to Donald Trump attending Game Three.

Taylor Swift Madison Square Garden Preparations And Secret NDA Measures

Behind the celebrity arrivals, extensive preparations have been underway at Madison Square Garden.

An insider previously told the Daily Mail that Swift and Kelce embraced the idea of creating a “spectacle” wedding, selecting the iconic venue for their ceremony.

Workers have already been seen moving what appeared to be pieces of a fairytale castle, including a massive white staircase, into the arena as construction continues ahead of the celebration.

The secrecy surrounding the event is equally elaborate. Sources shared that invited guests must sign a nondisclosure agreement before receiving full wedding information. 

Family members and close friends are also reportedly being asked to sign NDAs, with guests receiving a link to the agreement after confirming their attendance.

Christopher Nolan‘s Dark Knight trilogy was the defining superhero movie phenomenon of the 2000s. Before the MCU actually took shape, Nolan’s gritty, grimy, hyper-realist take on Batman revolutionized the way we saw superheroes. By turning the Caped Crusader’s gothic tale into a criminal saga, the movies proved that the genre could be so much more than men in tights fighting supervillains, and Hollywood was never the same.

A huge reason behind the trilogy’s success is Nolan’s inspired and instantly iconic adaptation of Batman’s rogues gallery. Taking some of the hero’s most distinct and famous enemies and giving them a new, somber, and realistic coat of paint, the trilogy turned itself into a parade of incredible villainy, the liked of which we seldom see in the superhero genre. But who is the best villain in the Dark Knight trilogy? The top of this list should be easy enough to guess, but every other villain in the series is quite compelling, making the rest of the ranking quite interesting.

7

Miranda Tate/Talia al Ghul (Marion Cotillard) – ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ (2012)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Poor Marion Cotillard; an actress of her stature deserved much, much better than what she got in The Dark Knight Rises. The last film in the trilogy is inherently flawed, but perhaps its biggest crime is doing Cotillard so damn dirty. The plot sees Christian Bale‘s Batman come out of retirement to face the threat of Bane (Tom Hardy), a terrorist who literally breaks his body in half before sending him to a foreign prison. Bane then holds Gotham hostage with the threat of a bomb.

Cotillard plays Miranda Tate, the CEO of Wayne Enterprises who, to the surprise of absolutely no one, turns out to be Talia al Ghul, R’as’ daughter who wants to finish her father’s work. The reveal is unsatisfying because it’s telegraphed from a mile away (a rare miss from the king of twists), and Cotillard gives a rather weak performance, as if she’s bored with the material — and who can blame her. Talia is a one-note figure without an ounce of characterization, a walking plot device with one of cinema’s goofiest deaths.

6

Carmine Falcone (Tom Wilkinson) – ‘Batman Begins’ (2005)

Image via Warner Bros

Batman Begins has an overabundance of villains and even name-drops a few others. However, only three actually play a meaningful role in the story, and the first is Carmine “The Roman” Falcone. Played by the late Tom Wilkinson, Falcone is a powerful mob boss in Gotham, whose corruption spreads to the city’s highest levels. He’s in cahoots with both Ra’s al Ghul (Liam Neeson) and Jonathan Crane (Cillian Murphy) in their plan to poison Gotham’s water supply with the fear toxin.

Narratively, Batman Begins deals with weighty themes about fear and the nature of heroism. In this scope, Wilkinson’s Falcone feels like small peanuts, and he should. In broad terms, he’s just a pawn in Ra’s’ larger game, and his presence is a symptom of Gotham’s sickness, not the cause. Wilkinson is doing his best Tony Soprano, and he’s rather good at it. He also shares quite a good scene with what’s supposed to be an early-twenties Bruce, even if the film’s attempts to make Bale look younger are somewhat goofy.

5

Henry Ducard/Ra’s al Ghul – ‘Batman Begins’ (2005)

Image via Warner Bros.

Next in line is Ra’s al Ghul, the actual main villain of Batman Begins, played by Liam Neeson. Introduced as Henri Ducard, he acts as a mentor and fight instructor during Bruce’s time with the League of Shadows, seemingly in service to Ra’s al Ghul (Ken Watanabe). Ducard reappears at the end of the film, revealing himself as the real Ra’s and hellbent on destroying Gotham by releasing the fear toxin into the water supply and having the city turn on itself.

Neeson is solid in the role, bringing the same stern and dignified behavior he dons in most of his movies. However, the film’s version of Ra’s al Ghul is ultimately less compelling, largely because the twist deprives him of the kind of development he would’ve had if the film revealed his identity from the get-go. There’s also the fact that Nolan whitewashed the character; listen, it was 2005, different time and whatever. Still, it’s jarring to see such a prominent East Asian and Arab character played by an Irishman.

4

Bane (Tom Hardy) – ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ (2012)

Image via Warner Bros.

The Dark Knight Rises uses Bane as the main villain for much of the plot before killing him off in the most unceremonious way possible. Tom Hardy’s villain is introduced as a terrorist and self-declared “revolutionary” who was excommunicated by the League of Shadows. Bane is a massive fighter who uses a nuclear bomb to seclude Gotham from the outside world, effectively holding it hostage. The film adapts the famous “Knightfall” storyline, in which Bane literally breaks Batman, cracking his spine and effectively taking him out of commission.

Visually, Hardy’s Bane is as good an adaptation as he can be while still fitting into Nolan’s hyper-realist approach. He also offers a more faithful version of his comic book counterpart, particularly in the intelligence department. For most of the film, Bane is an effective antagonist, even if he lacks much of the panache that previous villains brought to the trilogy. Hardy is great, as he always is, but the voice does become grating midway through the plot. Not a perfect villain, but a solid one.

3

Harvey Dent/Two-Face – ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)

The Dark Knight is the best in the trilogy, largely because of its incredible villains. First, we have Aaron Eckhart‘s Harvey Dent, Gotham’s DA who wants to clean Gotham from all the criminals terrorizing the streets. He seeks Batman and Gordon’s (Gary Oldman) help before eventually succumbing to villainy when the Joker (Heath Ledger) kills his love, Rachel Dawes (Maggie Gyllenhaal). The explosion also disfigures his face, breaking his mind and turning him into the villain Two-Face.

Eckhart’s Dent is a great adaptation of the character, especially during the film’s first half, when he’s still Gotham’s knight in shining armor. Once he becomes Two-Face, he becomes somewhat less interesting because he plays the character as an angry Harvey Dent rather than a whole new personality combining both light and dark. Still, as far as villains go, this Two-Face is quite an effective one, even if he only acts like one in the last act.

2

Jonathan Crane/The Scarecrow (Cillian Murphy) – ‘Batman Begins’ (2005)

Image via Warner Bros.

Advertisement

Batman Begins has an excess of villains, and while Ra’s is the main one, Cillian Murphy’s Jonathan Crane steals the show. In what was his first collaboration with Nolan, Murphy plays the psychiatrist-turned-supervillain with a mix of panache and creepiness. In the film, Crane works at Arkham Asylum and conducts experiments on the inmates, using the toxin produced by Ra’s as the key ingredient in his fear-inducing gas. Crane also works with the Gotham mob to declare Falcone’s enforcers insane so they can be spared from prison and moves to Arkham instead.

In many ways, Jonathan Crane is perfect for Nolan’s version of Batman and should’ve arguably been the film’s main villain. His MO — using fear to weaken his enemies — fits in perfectly with Batman Begins‘ main themes, but the movie doesn’t do nearly as much with him as it could’ve because it needs to set up the bigger plot with the League of Shadows. Murphy excels at playing these types of creepy yet alluring characters, and Crane is no exception. The film’s version of the Scarecrow mask is also quite good, far more comics accurate than most of the trilogy’s other villains.

1

The Joker (Heath Ledger) – ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)

Image via Warner Bros.

Advertisement

As mentioned in the interview, the top spot on this list was a no-brainer: Heath Ledger’s Joker is the all-time best superhero movie villain, setting an absurdly high bar that no one has been able to match, let alone surpass. In The Dark Knight, the Joker is an anarchist terrorist who seeks to throw Gotham into disarray just for the sake of it. He sees himself as a force for chaos, with Batman as his counterpart and the embodiment of order.

Ledger completely disappears into the role, giving the performance of a lifetime, the type of work that makes legends out of actors. The late Australian redefined the role entirely, turning the Clown Prince of Crime into a fascinating and layered force of nature that is as destructive as he is engaging. For his work, Ledger won a posthumous Best Supporting Actor Oscar, and his legacy only keeps improving with each passing year.

Taylor Swift’s wedding is already shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrity events of the decade, but fans may have another reason to stay glued to every update. 

Fresh reports suggest the pop superstar won’t walk down the aisle in just one unforgettable bridal look. 

Instead, insiders claim she’ll unveil multiple couture ensembles throughout the celebration, with subtle fashion choices from recent months now being viewed as possible clues about the designers she has secretly chosen for her big day with Travis Kelce.

Taylor Swift is expected to make several fashion statements throughout her wedding festivities instead of relying on a single bridal gown.

According to a Daily Mail insider, the singer has prepared a staggering five separate outfit changes for the celebration.

Rather than debuting the gowns through a traditional magazine feature, reports suggest fans may see the images first on Swift’s own social media accounts. 

With more than 273 million Instagram followers, she has a much larger audience than many fashion publications. 

Although stars including Ariana Grande, Sofia Richie, and Jennifer Lopez have introduced their wedding dresses through Vogue, Swift’s close relationship with her devoted fanbase makes a direct reveal seem more fitting.

Swift’s Ralph Lauren History Fuels Wedding Dress Speculation

Among the biggest names linked to Taylor Swift’s wedding wardrobe is Ralph Lauren, a designer she has worn repeatedly over the years.

Recall that Swift was wearing a striped Ralph Lauren sundress when Kelce proposed on August 10, 2025. 

According to reports, the outfit sold out almost immediately afterward. Now, fans believe that choice may have foreshadowed a future wedding collaboration.

The “Cruel Summer” singer has continued wearing Ralph Lauren in recent months, including a velvet scoop-neck dress during a June outing. 

She has also embraced several pieces from the brand’s Olympic-inspired collection, including the Team USA Polo Bear T-shirt, Team USA jacket, and an American flag sweater.

Her connection to Lauren stretches back much further, having worn the label’s classic cashmere knitwear as far back as 2011 before returning to the brand again in 2025.

Taylor Swift’s Dior Clues Have Swifties Watching Closely

Another designer generating enormous buzz is Jonathan Anderson, who now leads Dior.

Fans became convinced Swift was quietly dropping fashion hints after repeatedly carrying several of Dior’s signature handbags instead of her usual Louis Vuitton, Chanel, or Saint Laurent accessories.

The 36-year-old’s choice of the Small 30 Montaigne Avenue Top Handle Bag and the D-Journey Bag surprised longtime followers, who viewed the dramatic shift as another carefully planted Easter egg.

Fueling the rumors even further, The Hollywood Reporter cited industry insiders who reportedly identified Dior as the leading contender.

According to the publication, “well-placed sources say the winning dress — the dress that will likely transition Taylor Swift to Mrs. Travis Kelce — is a custom couture gown by Jonathan Anderson of Christian Dior.”

Some fans have also revisited Swift’s black Givenchy gown from the Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony, wondering whether elements of that floral design could hint at the direction of her bridal style.

Swift Could Surprise Fans With One Of Her Favorite Designers

While Ralph Lauren and Dior dominate the conversation, Taylor Swift reportedly has several additional possibilities available for her remaining outfit changes. 

Some Swifties believe she could turn to Stella McCartney, whose friendship with the star spans years. 

Others have pointed toward Monse after Swift wore a custom design by Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia while performing at Tight End University.

Another favorite among fans is Clio Peppiatt. The Grammy Award winner previously celebrated her 34th birthday wearing the designer’s sparkling Lucina Dress before choosing another Peppiatt creation for New Year’s Eve festivities. 

The dress became so closely associated with Swift that many fans purchased or rented similar designs while attending the Eras Tour.

An ivory bridal version of the Lucina Dress has only added to speculation that Peppiatt may play a role in Swift’s wedding wardrobe.

Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce’s Families Are Preparing For The Big Day

The attention surrounding the wedding extends well beyond the bride’s wardrobe.

According to another source, longtime stylist Joseph Cassell Falconer has been helping coordinate clothing for both families ahead of the ceremony.

Having worked alongside Swift since the beginning of her Nashville career, Falconer is reportedly overseeing custom fittings while some relatives borrow jewelry specially selected for the occasion. 

Several family members have even traveled to New York for fittings before the celebration. Kelce’s own wedding attire remains a closely guarded secret.

Tommy Hilfiger has emerged as a possible choice after the NFL star previously modeled for the brand, while designer Tom Marchitelli believes another luxury label may ultimately prevail.

“A celebrity wedding of this magnitude has all the major fashion houses battling it out to see who can get their label on the three-time Super Bowl champ,” he explained

He predicts Kelce will choose “bespoke Louis Vuitton” and envisions him wearing “a classic black ‘slightly fuller-cut double-breasted tux, crisp white shirt, and black bow tie, finished off with a diamond lapel pin” as the couple celebrates one of the most anticipated weddings in recent celebrity history.

Fantasy is one of the hardest genres to get right because the audience has to believe in a world that doesn’t actually exist. If the sense of wonder isn’t there, or the world never feels immersive, the entire illusion falls apart, and there’s no coming back from that. The truth is that viewers don’t watch fantasy films simply for the magic, mythical creatures, or epic battles.

They’re watching to be transported somewhere else entirely, and the best fantasy movies know how to create worlds audiences want to return to time and again. That’s exactly why the six fantasy movies on this list practically call for rewatches, so the audience can keep rediscovering the wonder that made them so unforgettable in the first place.

6

‘The Princess Bride’ (1987)

Image via 20th Century Studios

The Princess Bride is the perfect fantasy film for the whole family. The story follows farmhand Westley (Cary Elwes) and Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright), whose romance is interrupted when Westley is believed to have died at sea. Years later, Buttercup gets engaged to Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon), only to be kidnapped by a trio that includes Vizzini (Wallace Shawn), swordsman Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin), and gentle giant Fezzik (André the Giant). However, things take a turn when a mysterious man in black begins pursuing them, which kicks off an adventure filled with sword fights, revenge quests, and plenty of unexpected twists.

The Princess Bride is endlessly rewatchable because the film has so many moving parts. It’s a sincere fairy tale about true love, but at the same time, it pokes fun at common fantasy tropes. The film’s humor is as sharp today as it was back in the 1980s, and every character has only grown more fascinating with time. A simple rescue mission gradually turns into several interconnected character journeys, each with its own emotional payoff. The real magic of The Princess Bride is how effortlessly it balances comedy, adventure, romance, and fantasy without ever feeling overwhelming. Very few fantasy movies remain this entertaining and charming every time one revisits them.

5

‘Stardust’ (2007)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Stardust is a fantasy adventure based on Neil Gaiman’s 1999 novel, and follows Tristan Thorn (Charlie Cox), a young man from the village of Wall who promises to retrieve a fallen star to win the heart of the woman he believes he loves. To do that, he crosses into the magical kingdom of Stormhold, where he discovers that the star is actually a woman named Yvaine (Claire Danes). Unfortunately, Tristan is not the only person searching for her. In fact, a trio of witches led by the powerful Lamia (Michelle Pfeiffer) wants Yvaine’s heart to restore their youth, while the surviving heirs to the throne of Stormhold are also racing to find her for reasons of their own.

All of a sudden, Tristan’s simple quest involves magic, royal conspiracies, sky pirates, and an unexpected romance. Stardust is one of the rare films that actually has a lot of fun with its chaotic fantasy world. The film keeps introducing a string of memorable characters and surprises without losing the core of its central conflict. Robert De Niro nearly steals the entire movie as the unforgettable Captain Shakespeare, and the world of Stormhold feels whimsical yet just dangerous enough to keep the stakes high. Over the years, Stardust has developed a reputation as one of fantasy cinema’s most beloved cult favorites, one that fans just keep coming back to.

4

‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ (2022)

Image via Netflix

Advertisement

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio takes a familiar story and transforms it into something entirely its own. The film takes place in fascist Italy between the two World Wars and follows grieving woodcarver Geppetto (David Bradley), who loses his beloved son Carlo. Years later, in a moment of heartbreak, he carves a wooden puppet whom he names Pinocchio from a tree planted beside Carlo’s grave. Now, when a magical spirit brings the puppet to life, Pinocchio (Gregory Mann) suddenly finds himself thrown into a world he barely understands. The young boy struggles to find his place, and while doing so, he embarks on a journey that forces both him and Geppetto to learn what it truly means to be a family.

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio genuinely grows richer with every rewatch because of how much nuance the film is packed with. The filmmaker uses the fantasy genre to explore heavier themes of grief, mortality, and individuality. The stop-motion animation lends itself beautifully to the narrative, and the stunning character design with handcrafted details never gets old. Every frame feels like a work of art, but what grounds it all is the evolving relationship between Pinocchio and Geppetto. It’s no surprise that Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature because it is one of the most personal and imaginative fantasy films in recent years.

3

‘The Green Knight’ (2021)

Image via A24

Advertisement

David Lowery’s The Green Knight is unlike any fantasy film released in the last decade. The story is based on the centuries-old Arthurian poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and the story follows King Arthur’s nephew, Sir Gawain (Dev Patel), as he accepts a strange challenge from the mysterious Green Knight (Ralph Ineson). After striking the Green Knight with an axe, Gawain learns that he must travel to the Green Chapel one year later and receive the same blow in return. When that day finally arrives, he embarks on a dangerous journey where he encounters thieves, ghosts, giants, and other bizarre hurdles that constantly test his courage.

The adventure is only part of the story, though, because every stop along Gawain’s quest reveals something new about who he is. The film keeps the audience guessing, and its most important moments take on completely different meanings once the viewers finally know where the narrative is heading. The stunning cinematography, haunting score, and dreamlike atmosphere make it easy to get lost in the fantastical world of The Green Knight. Patel delivers one of the strongest performances of his career and grounds the film’s surreal elements with an extremely human portrayal of a young man searching for purpose. The Green Knight proves that fantasy doesn’t need massive battles or complex worldbuilding to be unforgettable.

2

‘Wicked’ (2024)

Image via Universal Pictures

Advertisement

Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of Wicked was a pop culture moment like no other. The film, based on the first act of the 2003 stage musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, takes one of the most iconic villains in pop culture and completely recontextualizes her story. The story is set years before the events of The Wizard of Oz and follows Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a young woman ostracized because of her green skin, as she arrives at Shiz University and unexpectedly forms a friendship with the popular and ambitious Galinda, later known as Glinda the Good (Ariana Grande). Their connection begins as a rivalry and gradually develops into a genuine bond, but their paths start to diverge as Elphaba uncovers disturbing truths about the Wizard of Oz and the growing oppression of the Animal population throughout Oz.

Soon enough, political manipulation, personal ambition, and conflicting ideals begin to pull them in opposite directions, and the film reveals how the future Wicked Witch of the West actually came to be. Wicked is a wildly entertaining experience filled with memorable musical numbers. However, beneath all that, it’s an emotional story about friendship, identity, and the way society creates villains. Erivo and Grande’s chemistry is the heart of the story, while the film’s production design transforms Oz into a vibrant world that feels magical and lived-in.

1

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’ (2001)

Image via New Line Cinema

Advertisement

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is the ultimate fantasy film. Peter Jackson‘s epic adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien‘s beloved novel follows Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood), a young hobbit who inherits a seemingly ordinary ring that turns out to be the most dangerous object in Middle-earth. When the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) discovers the ring’s true nature, Frodo is forced to leave the safety of the Shire and embark on a dangerous journey to prevent the Dark Lord Sauron from reclaiming it. Along the way, he is joined by an unlikely fellowship consisting of hobbits, men, an elf, a dwarf, and a wizard, all of whom must work together as darkness spreads across the land.

Every aspect of this grand, fantastical adventure feels timeless. The film introduces one of the richest fantasy worlds ever put on screen, yet it never loses sight of the characters at the center of the story. The journey from the peaceful hills of the Shire to the mines of Moria and beyond is packed with unforgettable moments, but the emotional core always remains Frodo’s growing understanding of the burden he carries. The practical effects, breathtaking locations, Howard Shore‘s iconic score, and brilliant ensemble cast come together to create something truly special. More than two decades later, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring remains the gold standard for fantasy filmmaking and the opening chapter of what many still consider the greatest epics of all time.

From Elle to Riverdale, John Hughes‘ The Breakfast Club left a lasting impression on the small screen.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Subscribe to newsletters

Enter your email


Please enter a valid email.



Subscribe

Advertisement

By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from Us Weekly

Deal of the Day

Stop Scrolling! This 46%-Off Floral Bikini Looks Like a Resort Boutique Find

View Deal

Advertisement

Check our latest news in Google News

Follow Us

Check our latest news in Apple News

Advertisement

Follow Us

The 1995 cult classic focused on five teenagers from very different backgrounds who end up serving detention together at their high school. The cast of The Breakfast Club — which included Anthony Michael Hall, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Molly Ringwald and Judd Nelson — quickly found success for their involvement in the iconic coming-of-age story.

After joining The CW’s Riverdale in 2017, Ringwald’s legendary film was the subject on a special episode in the series’ third season. The show’s flashback episode titled “The Midnight Club” paid tribute to The Breakfast Club by having the main actors play younger versions of their onscreen parents.

Scroll on for more TV shows that paid homage to The Breakfast Club over the years:

A purse can make or break an outfit. Don’t believe us? Taylor Swift made sure her bag wasn’t an afterthought during a recent outing. Her unique accessory, which we’re calling a bracelet bag, brought a cool element to her nighttime look. It didn’t take us long to find an Amazon lookalike, so we can be ready for our next evening affair, too.

Swift just attended a Broadway show in New York City, so that’s just the event and location to wear original-looking pieces. The mega star wore a $3,000 designer handbag, and the hobo style and fun green color look like the Niction Crescent Dumpling Bag on Amazon. With several ways to rock it, the affordable piece will pay for itself after a few wears.

Get the Niction Crescent Dumpling Bag for $29 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Swift’s bag has a slouchy hobo style, but what really makes it stand out is the handle. It’s a large golden ring, so you can grip it or wear it on your wrist to give a bracelet effect. (See why we called it a bracelet bag?) So, it’s almost like a bag and piece of jewelry in one to spice up a look.

Related: Taylor Swift’s Raffia Handbag Is Set to Dominate Summer 2026

Advertisement

Taylor Swift just made a strong case for upgrading your summer handbag lineup — and this time, it’s all about raffia. The singer leaned into soft, romantic styling with a woven shoulder bag that instantly gave her look that effortless, warm-weather polish. Even better? You can channel the same easy, expensive-looking vibe without touching the […]

The Amazon find is a bit different, but it still has that unique style. While it doesn’t have the golden ring like Swift’s, it has a circular handle that you can wear in hand or around the wrist. Plus, it comes with a removable strap, making it your new favorite crossbody.

We appreciate that the dumpling bag has an exterior zippered compartment and two separate zippered interior compartments. They ensure your phone, wallet and other belongings stay safely inside yet easy to access. The zippers are where you’ll find golden hardware, a nod to Swift’s bag.

The Niction bag comes in a green color to get the Swift vibe, but the black, khaki, beige and dark red are no-fail picks, too. We’re especially impressed with the quality faux leather and under-$30 price tag, as we can see ourselves using this on casual weekends and more dressed-up occasions.

This is a newer Amazon addition, but early reviews are putting their thumbs up. “The material has a nice texture and looks more expensive than it is, with a structured shape that holds well without collapsing,” one five-star reviewer shared.

Even if you’re not heading out in a velvet midi dress like Swift, this bag style could make a simple T-shirt and jeans look more fun.

Get the Niction Crescent Dumpling Bag for $29 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

Related: Taylor Swift’s Mint Green Basket Bag Is Summer’s ‘It’ Accessory

Taylor Swift just made a convincing case for upgrading your summer handbag lineup. While basket bags are a seasonal staple, her soft mint green version offered a playful, polished twist that felt far more fashion-forward than standard neutrals. Even better? You can channel the same expensive-looking vibe without splurging. On May 7, 2026, in London, […]

The title of “masterpiece” isn’t easily earned, with even some of the most prestigious forms of media only having a handful of flawless works. For films, there is The Godfather, and for television, there is Breaking Bad, but one form of media has quickly become the most popular: video games. From iconic classics such as Street Fighter to modern-day sensations like Fortnite, video games are so popular because they continue to evolve and can appeal to a wide range of fans.

This immersive realm of entertainment is addictive, but many people say it can’t be considered true art. But just like films, novels, and TV shows, video games are art and can have masterpieces that define a generation. That is why this list will rank the greatest video game masterpieces of all time based on elements such as gameplay, narrative, art, design, originality, influence, innovation, popularity, fan opinion, critical acclaim, and overall quality. These titles aren’t just fun; they are the pinnacle of interactive media that define video games.

25

‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ (2020)

As one of the oldest and most prolific gaming companies, Nintendo will have many games on this list, and they kick off with Animal Crossing: New Horizons. It may not have much of a story, but this life-simulator allows players to create a village to their own imagination. From building houses to managing the residents to tending the island, this life is truly relaxing and cozy.

This type of game isn’t for everyone, but life-simulations are a staple genre that highlights a distinct emotion and vibe in video games that makes this form of entertainment so versatile and beloved. New Horizons is the peak of this genre, giving players a wide range of activities and aspects to control. It was also the must-play game during the pandemic, and this rapid popularity, mixed with expansive gameplay, makes it an iconic modern time capsule.

24

‘Astro Bot’ (2024)

Image via Team ASOBI

Advertisement

The platformer genre is a historic one with one of the deepest catalogs of classics, but there aren’t as many modern ones. Thankfully, PlayStation shocked fans by delivering Astro Bot, a new platformer that revitalized the genre. Traveling around multiple galaxies as a little robot, players must rescue their scattered crew and repair their ship.

Many claim that 2024 was a weak year for gaming, but Astro Bot begs to differ, establishing itself as one of the greatest platformers of all time. It was a breath of fresh air in a genre overtaken by Mario, providing fans with imaginative gameplay scenarios. The controller and haptic feedback help the player connect with what is going on, making Astro Bot a triumph of joy in the gaming industry.

23

‘Halo 3’ (2007)

Image via Microsoft Game Studios

Advertisement

The 2000s were an iconic decade for video games, helping further improve the medium in terms of quality and popularity, and one of the most famous franchises from this time was Halo. This franchise had many great games, but Halo 3 is arguably the best. The fight against the Covenant seems to never end, but Master Chief hopes this time will finally be the end of this war.

Whether fans prefer the second or third game, they can admit that Halo might be the best shooting game ever, and that is because of its balance of engaging campaign mode and riveting multiplayer gameplay. Best known during the Xbox 360 era, Halo 3 defined split-screen multiplayer, and a decade of co-op gaming was at its height. Fans have fond memories of this game that perfected the multiplayer servers and format.

22

‘Metroid Prime’ (2002)

Image via Nintendo

Advertisement

Nintendo doesn’t often delve into the sci-fi realm, but they have one of the most critically acclaimed sci-fi franchises that unfortunately doesn’t get enough love. Metroid Prime is the best of the franchise, following Samus to an ancient planet where she tracks down a group of pirates. Investigating the mysterious world, she tries to stop their experiments before they get loose.

Metroid Prime had the impossible task of translating the Metroidvania genre to 3D, which it did flawlessly. This master craft of innovation, detail, and progression went down in history as one of the greatest gaming achievements. One of Metroid Prime‘s best aspects is how it keeps the gameplay flowing, constantly having the player interact with doors, switching guns, fighting enemies, on the run, exploring new areas, or scanning objects. This constant progression, paired with the endless curiosity, results in a must-play game.

21

‘The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’ (2015)

Image via CD Projekt Red

Advertisement

After the popularity of the games kept increasing, it was only a matter of time before live-action adaptations were made, and one of them is The Witcher. However, they rarely live up to the game they adapt, and in the case of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, it was an impossible task. Geralt is a Witcher who puts aside his normal monster-hunting in order to find and protect Ciri from the mythical Wild Hunt.

This list features a lot of fantasy games, specifically open-world ones, since they fit so perfectly together, and The Witcher 3 is one of the best. As one of the greatest fantasy games of all time, it delivers a profound sense of exploration through its storytelling from every aspect of gameplay. The main narrative is certainly compelling, but exploring this unique world and its lore is beyond fascinating, with intriguing narratives spewing out of side quests or even the environment.

20

‘Mass Effect 2’ (2010)

Image via BioWare

Advertisement

The Mass Effect franchise isn’t what it used to be, but the original trilogy of games is still among the greatest ever, specifically Mass Effect 2. In the second title, Commander Shepard seemingly dies, only to be brought back to life by the organization Cerberus. They are then tasked with investigating the disappearance of several human colonies tied to an insectoid alien race known as the Collectors.

Video games used to be all about gameplay, but they also offer a unique form of storytelling, and Mass Effect 2 in particular delivers a sprawling narrative involving grand political complexity and emotional weight. Each decision has genuine consequences that ripple through the events in the world and change the story, leading to one of the most iconic third acts in video game history. Mass Effect 2 is a legendary RPG that redefined the genre with its narrative style.

Image via Konami

Advertisement

Hideo Kojima is one of the greatest figures in the gaming world, and his magnum opus is undoubtedly Metal Gear Solid. Solid Snake is a former elite operative, but he can’t enjoy retirement just yet, with a new dire mission that requires his duty. A rogue special forces unit kidnaps a group of civilians and threatens to unleash nuclear Armageddon, leading Snake to infiltrate the base, save the hostages, and take the organization down.

Stealth games are a dying breed, but that might just be because Metal Gear Solid perfected them on its first try. This is a 1990s video game masterpiece and staple of the decade that flawlessly crafted a tense atmosphere through its stealth gameplay. Creative and wacky at times, Metal Gear Solid also pioneered cinematic framing, further establishing its influence. It also introduced the ever-popular Solid Snake, one of modern gaming’s biggest icons.

18

‘Persona 5’ (2016)

Image via Atlus, Sega

There are many JRPGs, and while some fans aren’t too keen on them, they also contain must-play masterpieces, including Persona 5. A group of high school students forms a group of phantom thieves, aiming to steal artifacts and other valuables from evil adults, stopping their villainous desires from harming the rest of the world.

RPGs are such a popular genre because they allow players to fully embody the role they are playing, giving them a greater sense of immersion, and Persona 5 does that exceptionally well. Whether fans want to roam around a highly accurate train station or get lost in its turn-based dungeon crawler system, there is much to enjoy. Persona 5 features a bold and stylized aesthetic with hours of turn-based combat and social-life simulation, which makes it so engaging.

17

‘What Remains of Edith Finch’ (2017)

Image via Giant Sparrow

This list doesn’t feature many indie games, mainly because it is hard for a lower-budget studio to compete with AAA blockbusters. However, this genre is known for its creativity and originality, with games such as What Remains of Edith Finch. The Finch family has a “curse” on them where they will all eventually die tragic deaths, but years after the titular character left, she returns to the family house to understand how they all met their end.

What Remains of Edith Finch is arguably the greatest indie game of all time, and that is because it boasts one of the best narratives in video game history. Its deeply tragic story is touching, depressing, emotional, complex, and well-crafted. However, it enhances its plot with a narrative design masterclass, using micro-mechanics related to each story that makes it more personal and immersive, perfectly portraying grief and tragedy. In the end, What Remains of Edith Finch is a work of art that might be the best game to blend narrative and gameplay, which easily puts it into the masterpiece category.

16

‘The Last of Us’ (2013)

Image via Naughty Dog

As mentioned, more live-action video game adaptations are coming out, and one of the best is The Last of Us, even if it still doesn’t compare to the game. Years after a zombie apocalypse, Joel is a grizzled survivor who is tasked with escorting a young girl, Ellie, across the country. After bonding, he learns that she may be the cure to the infection, making the stakes even higher.

While What Remains of Edith Finch probably has the best narrative design in video games, The Last of Us takes the cake in terms of story. This adventure is a heartbreaking yet compelling tale of the bond between two well-written characters, slowly building with narrative prestige until the epic and shocking twist. Not to mention, The Last of Us has a well-designed survival system that enriches horror, drama, and intrigue.

Typically, body products are for the body, and face products are for the face. However, Jane Seymour is breaking the rules with a particular body cream, and she has experienced serious benefits. In an interview with InStyle, Seymour revealed that a little experimentation led to stunning skin.

Seymour has been an ambassador of Body Firm for more than 10 years. “At first I went, ‘What’s that, like another body lotion?’ But it wasn’t, and I didn’t want to believe it. I thought, well, that’s just hype. But I thought well, due diligence, and I just used it,” Seymour said about the Crépe Erase Body Repair Treatment. She even used it on her face since the brand hadn’t released its facial product at the time, and she said her face “looked better the next morning” and stayed “plump and smooth.”

Get the Body Firm Crépe Erase Body Repair Treatment for $84 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

This treatment has some key ingredients that allow it to focus on crepey skin for firmer, more moisturized results. The TruFirm Technology is an exclusive blend of plant extracts to promote elastin production, and the blend of 12 antioxidants, essential lipids and fatty acids, called 12 Super Hydrators, improves hydration and targets the skin’s moisture barrier. So, your skin will be graced with olive oil, cocoa butter, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, squalene, vitamin E and glycerides.

To get the most out of this body repair treatment, the brand recommends massaging it in an upward, circular motion for one minute or until fully absorbed. If you have dry skin, you can use it twice a day. The rich formula will work to deliver serious hydration exactly where you need it.

Real-life users agree that this body cream works wonders on both the body and face, so it’ll be a serious workhorse in your medicine cabinet.

“The product is rich, fragrance-free (perfect), a high-level moisturizer and does an impressive job of smoothing and tightening skin to a surprising degree. In addition, the jar contains a VERY generous portion for the cost and only a small amount is needed,” a verified purchaser said.

“I tested it on one leg and used my existing cream on the other leg. The difference was undeniable! The Crépe Erase leg was smooth and sleek with no greasy residue! I then applied it all over my arms, legs and chest area, and it works like a DREAM,” one happy shopper wrote.

It can be tempting to buy every beauty product that makes big promises, but with the testimonies of Seymour and real-life purchasers, this is one cream actually worth the cost.

Get the Body Firm Crépe Erase Body Repair Treatment for $84 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

Related: Jane Fonda Uses This Serum That Users Say ‘Fills the Wrinkles’

At 88, Jane Fonda isn’t just aging well — she’s redefining what great mature skin can look like. Her complexion is consistently smooth, luminous and full of that unmistakable vitality, with a firmness and radiance that doesn’t rely on heavy makeup or over-the-top treatments. Naturally, when someone’s skin looks that healthy and refined at her […]

Advertisement

If you’re waiting for Solo Leveling to come back for its third season, don’t fret, as the franchise has returned with a brand new look for its S-Rank Hunter. The anime adaptation of this popular Webtoon novel aired its final episode back in 2025, and so far, there has been confirmation that Season 3 will be coming out later this year, as well as a Netflix adaptation. But in addition to these two projects, there’s another addition to the Solo Leveling adaptation worth keeping an eye on.

Last year, it was announced that Solo Leveling would receive an ice show called Solo Leveling on Ice, which took place at Mokdong Indoor Ice Rink in Seoul, South Korea, in December. Starring in this ice show as Sung Jinwoo was Kim Jinhwan, a K-pop idol and member of the group IKON. But it seems this ice show has extended its run, as a brand-new trailer has dropped, featuring a new look for these live-action hunters.

A new trailer for Solo Leveling on Ice was uploaded on the show’s official social media channels. Starring in this new leg of the show is South Korean figure skater and World silver medalist Cha Junhwan as Sung Jinwoo. Another new face in the cast list is Kim Yerim, who will be playing Jinwoo’s love interest, Cha Hae-in, Choi Woohyuk as Yoo Jinho, South Korean influencer AMY as Jinwoo’s old friend, Loo Joohee; and Lee Si Hyung as Igris. Solo Leveling on Ice will return to the Mokdong Indoor Ice Rink, and it’s set to start next month.

What Is Solo Leveling About?

Solo Leveling takes place in a world where portals, called Gates, appear, and it’s up to hunters, humans with supernatural abilities, to close them by fighting monsters and beating the dungeon boss. The show follows Sung Jinwoo, who was once an E-rank hunter and was seen as the weakest of all humankind. But a near-death experience allowed him to become a “Player,” giving him the ability to level up his rank, eventually becoming an S-Rank Hunter. As of now, the anime adaptation has covered the first 13 story arcs from the webnovel and ended at the start of the “Recruitment arc.” With Season 3 confirmed, it’s possible that the next installment will not only continue where it left off, but could also adapt at least the next two story arcs, the Ahjin Guild Arc and the Double Dungeon Arc.

Solo Leveling Seasons 1 and 2 are available to stream on Crunchyroll, while Season 3 has yet to announce a release date. Solo Leveling on Ice takes place at Mokdong Indoor Ice Rink in South Korea from August 7 to 17, 2026. Follow Collider for more updates.

​​​​​​

Advertisement

Advertisement

Release Date

2024 – 2025-00-00

Network

Advertisement

Tokyo MX, Gunma TV, BS11, Tochigi TV

Directors

Tatsuya Sasaki, Toru Hamasaki

Advertisement

Writers

Shigeru Murakoshi, Shingo Irie, Fuka Ishii

Advertisement

Advertisement

• 
• 

  Genta Nakamura

  Yoo Jin-ho

Advertisement

Advertisement