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Entertainment

10 Thrillers That Are Perfect From the Opening Shot to the Last

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Dustin Hoffman caresses Susan George in Straw Dogs

The thriller is one of the most versatile film genres out there. There are political thrillers, noir thrillers, sci-fi and supernatural thrillers, action thrillers…the list goes on and on. Within this massive net of films, there are, subjectively, a wide swath of truly fantastic ones. And then, there is la crème de la crème; an ultra-elite brand of thriller — the thriller that is pitch-perfect from its opening frame to its final shot.

Regardless of sub-genre, here are the thrillers that thrill from the moment they begin to their stunning finales. Some examine deep elements of the human psyche, like Straw Dogs, and others, well, they do that too, but also add some boldly compelling visuals that universally leave audience’s jaws agape, like Black Swan. So, prepare yourself for a little slice of cinematic heaven and let these exhilarating screen gems fully engulf you.

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10

‘Straw Dogs’ (1971)

Dustin Hoffman caresses Susan George in Straw Dogs
Dustin Hoffman caresses Susan George in Straw Dogs
Image via 20th Century Studios

Some films peel back the layer of civility that most humans operate under, and expose the raw nerves underneath with brutal honesty. Director Sam Peckinpah’s masterwork of rising tension and unmitigated rage, Straw Dogs, was one of the first films to bring this level of harsh realness to American audiences. The way the plot weaves and twists, deliberately drawing primal instincts out of the protagonist, is masterful, thus prompting oodles of much deserved praise.

The tale begins with David Sumner (Dustin Hoffman, full immersion method acting on display), an egghead who’s married to a striking British woman, Amy (Susan George). They move to a remote area of Cornwall, England (it’s Britain, what could possibly go wrong?). Well, some local rednecks (yes, they have them in the U.K., too) do not take too kindly to David’s book-learnin’ ways, and they become envious, etc. etc. Eventually Amy is attacked, savagely… Then, David elects to protect a wrongfully accused man from a mob of torch-wielding villagers, and David’s true nature is exposed (in a vengeful, but quite satisfying way). The slow-burn pacing of this film really pays off, and Hoffman’s examination of a man pushed to his breaking point is a thing of sheer (brutal) beauty.

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9

‘Black Swan’ (2010)

Nina dancing on stage with red eyes in Black Swan (2010).
Natalie Portman transforms in Black Swan (2010).
Image via Searchlight Pictures

Darren Aronofsky has a penchant for crafting extremely tight, well-paced thrillers in a host of sub-genres. His films like Requiem for a Dream and Mother! exquisitely tell captivating, entirely unique stories, but none of his other works are as remarkably, painstakingly executed as Black Swan.

Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman, pushed to the very brink of physical and mental exhaustion, with the best possible outcome…an Oscar win) is a prima ballerina looking to take the coveted duel roles of The White Swan and The Black Swan in the famed ballet masterpiece Swan Lake. Her biggest competitor for the part just so happens to be her only friend in the dance company, Lily (Mila Kunis, also delivering a career-high performance at the time). Lily is much more of a free-spirit than the straight-laced Nina, and she does a nice little job of corrupting Nina in the slightest bit…or so it seems. Nina’s relationship with her mother, Erica (Barbara Hershey), is toxic, at best, as Erica reinforces the pressure that Nina places on herself to be “perfect.” Nina’s journey from frilly white swan to devious black swan is remarkable…even if the end result is a bit grisly. The whole movie is a disorienting swirl of dream-like terrors mixing with real-life horrors. Every scene is nuanced, imbued with ineffable meaning — and breathtaking to behold.

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8

‘The Fugitive’ (1993)

Harrison Ford in distress as Dr. Kimble in The Fugitive 
Harrison Ford in distress as Dr. Kimble in The Fugitive
Image via Warner Bros.

Harrison Ford was already an international superstar when he was cast as Dr. Richard Kimble in The Fugitive. The addition of Tommy Lee Jones as Samuel Gerard, the unrelenting U.S. Marshal, cemented this adrenaline-fueled action thriller as a film with two of the best lead characters ever. Andrew Davis’s sharp direction coupled with a stylishly adapted script (it was originally a TV series) elevate this movie to one of the most heart-pumping, awesomely executed thrillers ever.

The story begins with Kimble, a man in a “happy marriage.” When his wife, Helen (Sela Ward), is murdered by a one-armed man, but Kimble is framed for the attack, he has no choice but to go on the run (after a convenient little prison break). The ensuing chase, with some of the most jaw-dropping cat-and-mouse set pieces featuring the wily Kimble and surprisingly spry Gerard, is one for the ages. As Kimble pieces together a conspiracy plot, involving illicit pharmaceuticals (…of course…), he leaves Gerard clues, and the plot keeps on thickening until the thrilling conclusion.

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7

‘The Night of the Hunter’ (1955)

Robert Mitchum as "Preacher" Harry Powell looking up at a person offscreen in The Night of the Hunter.
Robert Mitchum as “Preacher” Harry Powell looking up at a person offscreen in The Night of the Hunter.
Image via United Artists

This film strikes many cords of originality. Famed actor Charles Laughton directed this chilling classic, and broke all kinds of conventions. Focused on a villain as the actual protagonist, The Night of the Hunter cracked the mold of the typical hero story, presenting a very strange type of hero. This look into the mind of a pseudo-religious zealot left audiences aghast, but also, pleasantly shocked by an expertly woven tale.

The plot, especially for the time period, is wild. Morally lax (read: serial killer, focused on slaughtering promiscuous women) reverend Harry Powell (a eerily convicted Robert Mitchum) is sent to jail for a minor infraction. His death row-bound cellmate, Ben Harper (Peter Graves), divulges the secret that he’s stashed ten grand somewhere in his hometown. Naturally, when Powell is freed, he travels to the town and creates a charming facade to get close to Harper’s wife, Willa (Shelley Winters), and family. As Powell’s insidious nature seeps through, the fam begins to suspect him of, er, malfeasance. So, mom ends up dead in the river, and Powell pursues the two tykes who know where the cash is (spoiler: it’s in the little girl’s doll). The ensuing chase is a surreal trip down the (actual) river, with Powell unraveling even more. Structurally, the movie is extraordinarily tight and engaging throughout. Stylistically, it set the stage for many a boldly bizarre thriller to come.

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6

‘Fatal Attraction’ (1987)

Michael Douglas and Glenn Close leaning close about to kiss in Fatal Attraction
Michael Douglas and Glenn Close leaning close about to kiss in Fatal Attraction
Image via Paramount Pictures

Some stories have such a tight structure that they inevitably will make good films. Then, there is the brand of expertly crafted tales that are coupled with some of the most intense performances ever found in the thriller genre. Welcome to the anxiety-inducing Fatal Attraction, director Adrian Lyne’s magnum opus.

Poor Dan Gallagher (Michael Douglas). He made one little tiny mistake (that of infidelity) and then had his entire world rocked. That’s what happens when you mess with the feelings of the wrong person, and in this case, Alex Forrest (Glenn Close, Oscar-nominated (again) for this role) was definitely the worst person to attempt to have a casual fling with (…she will not be ignored). The reason this movie is so good is that the tension just keeps escalating, as Alex’s behavior becomes more and more erratic (and eventually, lethal — RIP bunny). As Dan’s wife, Beth (Anne Archer), eventually is made aware of the severity of the situation (beyond just Dan’s flippant philandering), the creeping sense that this will end in tragedy feels completely justified. Lyne’s direction of the brutality inherent to rejection is palpable the entire runtime of this classic.

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5

‘The French Connection’ (1971)

Roy Scheider and Gene Hackman inside a car in The French Connection
Roy Scheider and Gene Hackman in The French Connection
Image via 20th Century Studios

This “loosely based on a true story” masterpiece truly reinvented the American crime thriller. The car chase scene alone was one of the most revolutionary new aspects of modern cinema of the time. This, and other crazy action scenes, help land The French Connection on many a “best films ever” list, but it’s so much more than just cars racing around New York City. The precise direction provided by William Friedkin, including the cinéma-vérité manner of shooting the high-octane sequences, is really what makes this such a gritty classic — along, of course, with the intense performances of virtually the whole cast.

Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle (Gene Hackman, in the role that made him a star — and got him an Oscar) and Buddy “Cloudy” Russo (Roy Scheider, pre-Jaws) are two narcotics narcs working a major drug smuggling case in New York. It’s an international affair (hence the title), involving beret-wearing, wine-swilling criminals. The big fromage is Alain Charnier (Fernando Rey), who has been operating with impunity for years. Jimmy and Buddy need to stop a massive shipment of heroin from becoming available to the smack-doing public, and Jimmy especially will stop at nothing (even, heaven forfend, break the law himself) to intercept the drugs. This kind of “anti-hero” was seen before in noirs, but not so much in contemporary detective roles, so it was a refreshing take for audiences to consume. Every scene in this film is a banger, and that’s precisely why it took home five Oscars.

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4

‘Taxi Driver’ (1976)

Robert DeNiro as Travis Bickle looking angrily out of his taxi cab window in Taxi Driver.
Robert DeNiro as Travis Bickle looking angrily out of his taxi cab window in Taxi Driver.
Image via Columbia Pictures

With a long, long list of sensational films to choose from, spanning many decades, Taxi Driver may hold up as Martin Scorsese’s finest film. It’s a film in the truest sense, in that it’s a “story told with pictures” more than anything else. While Goodfellas is arguably more entertaining, The Departed is more action-packed, and Raging Bull is more real, Taxi Driver is simply a work of high art. That is, one that is focused on some of the most depraved aspects of humanity imaginable.

Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro, in hands-down one of his best roles ever) is in a bit of an existential pickle. While soft-spoken, he’s got a lot of feelings leftover from serving in the Vietnam War, and he doesn’t really know where to place them. He drives his cab around NYC at night (not the most uplifting setting for a sensitive person, especially in the 70s), searching for fare, but really more for a purpose. A brief stint trying to “help out” a politician’s campaign, and the pulchritudinous visage of Cybill Shepherd (as Betsy), just aren’t cutting it. When he encounters the wily street-child Iris (Jodie Foster), he finally figures out what he’s meant to do: go on a killing spree of the vile offenders of this innocent, naturally. The way Scorsese shot this thing is mind-blowing, and De Niro’s commitment to this tricky part is astounding. This movie is highly disturbing, but it’s certainly thrilling from the first murky shot to the bitter last.

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3

‘Seven’ (1995)

Sergeant Mills (Brad Pitt) looks into the distance distraught as he stands in a large field at sunset.
Sergeant Mills (Brad Pitt) looks into the distance distraught as he stands in a large field at sunset.
Image via New Line Cinema

Or Se7en, as it was originally titled, is the prime example of using every single frame of a film to aid in the overall story. It’s so precisely constructed that it leaves the viewer longing for the next scene, all while reveling in the current moment. When the end credits first rolled, most audiences found their jaws on the floor, and could only sit and marvel at what the heck they just witnessed.

Inchoate Detective Mills (Brad Pitt) is partnered with long-time veteran Detective Somerset (Morgan Freeman) to try to crack a new serial killer case that looks like it’s just taking off. It appears that some sort of religious nut is enacting the seven deadly sins (listed in your handy bible), utilizing (murdering) “sinners” to illustrate his point. The thing is, this guy, John Doe (Kevin Spacey) is quite creative. And patient. And, well, genius. Most of the movie-going world is aware of how this film concludes (with a very special delivery), but just in case, no spoiling here. Just be aware that what’s in the box is quite heady. Overall, Seven contains one of the best plot lines in cinematic history, some of the strongest performances of any thriller ever, ironically wonderful direction by David Fincher, and the grandest finale ever. Still, this is some dark stuff.

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2

‘Vertigo’ (1958)

Judy (Kim Novak) wearing a robe and looking intently in Vertigo (1958).
Judy (Kim Novak) wearing a robe and looking intently in Vertigo (1958).
Image via Paramount Pictures

The phrase “Hitchcockian” was really born out of the film Vertigo. His use of unsettling angles, twirling cameras, and unconventional filming techniques in general were completely innovative at the time (and have since inspired countless imitators). The way that Mr. Alfred Hitchcock made the viewer actually feel like they had an inner ear infection (or any other condition that would cause vertigo) was unprecedented in filmmaking. The final result is an absolutely thrilling picture that is made up of one genius shot after the next.

The disorienting story is (off-) centered on John “Scottie” Ferguson (James Stewart, who worked with Hitchcock on four films, and could thank the English director for helping shed his squeaky clean image). Scottie was a detective, but after a harrowing incident, he came to suffer from acrophobia (fear of heights) and a nasty case of vertigo (y’know, the spins). He’s hired as a private dick to follow this dude’s gorgeous but weird wife, Madeleine (drop-dead gorgeous Kim Novak). Scottie thinks she’s a hottie, but that doesn’t help him prevent her death (again, involving heights)…or so it seems. Scottie eventually meets Madeleine’s doppelgänger, and falls for her…but forces her to dress and act like Madeleine… Things spiral further out of control, and the movie culminates in a twist that will have you falling over in shock. Laden with themes of identity-crisis, unresolved trauma, and unrelenting obsession (your welcome, Obsession), this stunning film laid the groundwork for many thrillers to come. It’s a masterpiece from frame one to the final credit (probably a grateful gaffer).

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1

‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991)

The Silence of the Lambs - 1991 - Jodie Foster, looking scared, holds a gun, as Agent Clarice Starling
The Silence of the Lambs – 1991 – Jodie Foster, looking scared, holds a gun, as Agent Clarice Starling
Image via Orion Pictures

Perfection. Really the only adjective appropriate to describe this thriller. From the opening scene where soon-to-be agent Clarice Starling’s drive and determination is shown as she navigates a woodsy FBI training obstacle course (a metaphor itself for emerging “out of the woods”) to the final, deliciously ironic wordplay spoken on the phone by the good doctor Lecter — and, of course, literally every scene in between — this masterpiece doesn’t miss a single, tasty beat.

Starling (Jodie Foster, in probably her best role ever) is tasked with interrogating a genius, lunatic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Sir Anthony Hopkins, in definitely his best role ever), to garner info on a newly risen killer, deemed Buffalo Bill (Ted Levine) by the media. Every scene between Foster and Hopkins is fraught with tension, intrigue, and, oddly enough, charm. The rest of Starling’s quest is expertly laid out by director Jonathan Demme, as he fills each set piece with anxiety, guile, and bone-chilling mystery. The atmosphere is rich, fecund even; the sound editing is razor sharp, the scoring terrifying. Every other detail of this film combines to provide a work of cinema that doesn’t have a single lagging moment. The Silence of the Lambs (which, incidentally, swept all the major Oscars) deserves an annual watch, just to appreciate every little nuance. So, sit back, pop open a bottle of nice chianti and enjoy…


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01419154_poster_w780-1.jpg


The Silence of the Lambs

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Release Date

February 14, 1991

Runtime
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119 minutes

Director

Jonathan Demme

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Writers

Ted Tally, Thomas Harris

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‘Cheetah Girls 4’ Receiving Backlash Over Mixed Cast

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Raven Symone at the 'Kim Possible' film premiere

Millennial Disney Channel fans are in for a Cheeetahlicious treat, as the network recently announced the fourth installment in “The Cheetah Girls” franchise. According to several new reports and Raven-Symoné herself, the upcoming film, dubbed “Next Gen,” has been greenlit at Disney and will air on the network and Disney+ in the coming months. And while the news that a beloved classic will be adding another film to the archives almost 20 years after the last movie stirred excitement among some, others have voiced their disapproval about the project, pointing out that the new wave of Cheetah Girls differs vastly from the original lineup.

Raven Symone at the 'Kim Possible' film premiere
MEGA

The party’s just begun, because according to Deadline, Symoné and Adrienne Bailon are headed back to the small screen to star in the next “Cheetah Girls” movie. Their bandmate, Sabrina Bryan, will make a special appearance in the film, while Lynn Whitfield and Lori Alter will reprise their roles as Symoné and Bailon’s fictional mothers.

“The Cheetah Girls: Next Gen” is executive produced by Symoné and Debra Martin Chase and will feature a younger cast of talented performers, including Leah Sava Jeffries, Carmen Sanchez, Kaileen Chang, Sophie Lennon, and Kamogelo Ramashala.

What’s The Next ‘Cheetah Girls’ Film Even About?

Per the press release, the next “Cheetah Girls” flick will follow Symoné and Bailon’s characters, Galleria and Chanel, as they travel to Africa to volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary. While there, Symoné’s daughter, Jeffries, and Bailon’s sister, Sanchez, along with their friends, “find their voice and discover the true Cheetah spirit as they save the preserve and ultimately take the stage as the new Cheetah Girls.”

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“The Cheetah Girls: Next Gen” follows the first three films, “The Cheetah Girls,” “The Cheetah Girls 2,” and “The Cheetah Girls: One World,” and is originally based on the book series by Deborah Gregory.

“The Cheetah Girls has always been about friendship, music, and empowering young people to use their voice,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Kids & Family. “That spirit connected deeply with a generation of fans, and it still resonates today. Bringing this dynamic new group of young stars to the franchise allows us to continue that legacy for a new era of kids and families.”

Symoné Teases The Upcoming Film With A Special Post On Instagram

Symoné teased the fourth installment with an Instagram post, writing, “It’s happening, and it’s CHEETAHLICIOUS!” Over top of the clip, Symoné added the text, “POV: strutting to the set of ‘The Cheetah Girls: Next Gen.’”

In the social post, Symoné is seen walking around different parts of Africa with a big smile on her face. Others appeared to show the 40-year-old on the movie’s set, and one in particular showed the “That’s So Raven” alum posing with a cheetah.

Her clip has secured nearly 200,000 likes and a handful of comments, with one saying, “OMG, we all knew, but now it’s official. So happy… Wishing all the 4 OGs to return, but I’m OK with only Raven and Adrienne, though.”

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Some Fans Are Having A Negative Reaction To The New ‘Cheetah Girls’

Some other users, however, aren’t as excited as the one above, as many rushed to different platforms, claiming that the network was attempting to “whitewash” the group, which originally featured three Black women and one white woman.

“If you read the books, them girls [are] BLACK. Don’t p-ss me off,” someone wrote on Instagram. “Nope. Keep black things blackly black,” another posted.

“It’s a book about black girls by a black author,” a third wrote. “It really is that deep.” A fourth chimed in with, “Unpopular Opinion: We don’t need the iconic things from previous generations to be remade for the current generation. They don’t even value it the same (no fault of their own).”

Bailon Previously Told The Blast She’d Be Up For Another Film

Adrienne Bailon posing on the red carpet.
MEGA

In September 2025, Bailon spoke with The Blast about possibly returning for a fourth film and said she was more than open to the idea.

“I would never say never,” she said. “I’m a never-say-never kind of girl.” However, for her to return, it had to be perfect.

“Definitely not saying no, but it would just have to be done right. I think that, and I am the kind of girl [who has] franchises that I’m a huge fan of, and I would hate for them to ruin it,” she added.

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Noah Wyle Reacts to ‘The Pitt’s’ Emmy Success, Teases Season 3

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Noah Wyle at 32nd Annual Actor Awards - Arrivals

The nominations for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards were announced on July 8, with HBO Max’s “The Pitt” receiving 25 nominations, the most of any other show. Now, following the news, star, writer, and executive producer of the ratings juggernaut, Noah Wyle, is reacting, saying he’s humbled by the honor. This comes as season three of the popular series is in production.

Noah Wyle at 32nd Annual Actor Awards - Arrivals
MEGA

Among the 25 nominations for “The Pitt” were two for Wyle. He received a nod for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, his second in the category, and Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series, for his work on the episode titled “12:00 p.m.” He’s been nominated for 10 Emmys over the course of his decades-long career.

Wyle spoke to Deadline on July 8 after “The Pitt” came out on top in terms of nominations. He said, “This just feels very much like a gift that keeps on giving. I feel very humbled by this and validated many times over. Today, I feel extremely gratified that the nominations were spread so far and wide across our casting.”

From there, he called “The Pitt” being recognized “a testament to the collective achievement and contribution that everybody makes.”

The “ER” alum added, “It is such a collective effort that it’s really hard to parse it out into individual contributions.” Still, Wyle wishes more of the people who contributed to the hit show had been nominated, including its Director of Photography, Jojo Coelho.

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Noah Wyle Discusses Dr. Michael ‘Robby’ Robinavitch’s Journey In ‘The Pitt’ Season 3

Noah Wyle, The Pitt
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Wyle’s “The Pitt” character, Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch, experienced quite the emotional journey in the show’s first two seasons. However, in his Deadline interview, the actor says season three will feature the character healing from some of his past trauma.

Regarding season three, he said, “Well, I don’t want to say too much about Season 3, but I think we’re climbing out of the pit slowly but surely. I think Robbie and anybody who can identify with him will watch his journey and feel that we’re now finally in the kind of ascension. We’re moving up and out of where we’ve been.”

After that, Wyle gave a season-by-season summary, saying, “Season 1 was about the doctor being the patient; Season 2 is about doctors not being very good patients; Season 3 is about doctors benefiting from being patients.”

He then stated that Robinavitch has “begun the therapeutic road” before saying, “it’s had a positive effect. It’s fragile, and it’s not without risk and vulnerability, but it’s at least there’s forward progress.”

Many Of The Principal Cast Received Nominations

The Pitt Cast Shawn Hatosy, Katherine LaNasa, Noah Wyle and Patrick Ball
Tammie Arroyo / AFF-USA.com / MEGA

Among the 25 nominations for “The Pitt” at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards were several for its principal and supporting cast in addition to Wyle’s two nods. First, Katherine Lanasa received a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, as did Sepideh Moafi and Taylor Dearden.

Additionally, Gerran Howell was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. Shawn Hatosy is also nominated in the category, as is Patrick Ball. “The Pitt” also received noms for several guest actors as well as Outstanding Drama Series.

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Noah on the red carpet
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Many hit shows, especially in the era of streaming, can’t repeat the success they garnered in their inaugural seasons. However, “The Pitt” is one of the exceptions, with the finale for its second season becoming the most-watched episode in the show’s history.

According to Variety, the series drew 9.7 million viewers over its first weekend. Additionally, as of April 20, the show was averaging 15.4 million viewers across all episodes on HBO Max. This represents a 50% improvement over the show’s first season.

There Will Be Cast Changes In Season 3

Supriya Ganesh, The Pitt
Lumeimages / MEGA

Variety reported in April 2026 that one of the supporting cast members from “The Pitt,” Supriya Ganesh, would not be returning for season three after appearing in the first two installments. Wyle spoke about the change and others the show has faced in comments to the outlet.

He said, “It’s an inevitability that’s going to happen every season with this show because, as writers, we’re hard-pressed to figure out what a lapse of time we can have and keep most of the ensemble together realistically.”

Regarding when season three of “The Pitt” will air, fans can expect it to arrive on HBO Max in January 2027.

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The Biggest Sci-Fi Sequel of 2026 Officially Arrives This November

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Godzilla in Godzilla Minus One

2026 has been a roller-coaster year for fans of sci-fi movies and TV shows, with each medium producing some massive hits and unfortunate misfires for the genre. The year opened with a pair of sci-fi bombs in theaters, Greenland 2: Migration (starring Gerard Butler) and Mercy (starring Rebecca Ferguson), but the first true hit of the year came with Project Hail Mary (starring Ryan Gosling), which is now streaming on Prime Video. As for TV shows, Netflix dropped its next big sci-fi show last month with The Boroughs, which was even hailed as the platform’s follow-up to Stranger Things, but it was tragically canceled by the streamer while still sitting in the top 10 of global watchlists, highlighting the volatility of the genre in the streaming world. There are plenty of sci-fi projects coming this year to be excited about, though.

One of the first big sci-fi movies coming later this year that comes to mind is Dune: Part Three, the third and final film in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune trilogy starring Timothée Chalamet. However, many fans would argue that the title of the most anticipated sci-fi sequel of the year actually belongs to Godzilla Minus Zero, which opens in theaters everywhere on November 6. The film is a direct sequel set four years after the events of Godzilla Minus One, the Oscar-winning sci-fi blockbuster currently streaming on Netflix. After dropping the first teaser for the film earlier this year, Toho followed it up with a breathtaking first trailer this morning, confirming that the film is sticking to its November 6 launch and won’t be subject to delays. Godzilla Minus One grossed over $110 million at the box office against a $15 million budget.

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Collider Exclusive · Sci-Fi Survival Quiz
Which Sci-Fi World Would You Survive?
The Matrix · Mad Max · Blade Runner · Dune · Star Wars

Five universes. Five completely different ways the future went wrong — or sideways, or up in flames. Only one of them is the world your instincts were built for. Eight questions will figure out which dystopia, galaxy, or desert wasteland you’d actually make it out of alive.

💊The Matrix

🔥Mad Max

🌧️Blade Runner

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🏜️Dune

🚀Star Wars

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01

You sense something is deeply wrong with the world around you. What do you do?
The first instinct is often the truest one.





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02

In a world of scarcity, what resource do you guard most fiercely?
What we protect reveals what we believe survival actually requires.





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03

What kind of threat keeps you up at night?
Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.





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04

How do you deal with authority you don’t trust?
Every dystopia has a power structure. Your approach to it determines everything.





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05

Which environment could you actually endure long-term?
Survival isn’t just tactical — it’s physical, psychological, and very much about where you are.





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06

Who do you want in your corner when things fall apart?
The company you keep is the clearest signal of who you actually are.





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07

Where do you draw the line — if you draw one at all?
Every survivor eventually faces a moment that tests what they’re actually made of.





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08

What would actually make survival worth it?
Staying alive is one thing. Having a reason to is another.





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Your Fate Has Been Calculated
You’d Survive In…

Your answers point to the world your instincts were built for. This is the universe your temperament, your survival instincts, and your particular brand of stubbornness were made for.

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The Resistance, Zion

The Matrix

You took the red pill a long time ago — probably before anyone offered it to you. You’re a systems thinker who can’t help but notice the seams in things.

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  • You’re drawn to understanding how the system works before figuring out how to break it.
  • You’d find the Resistance, or it would find you — your instinct for spotting constructed realities is the machines’ worst nightmare.
  • You function best when you have access to information and the freedom to act on it.
  • The Matrix built an airtight prison. You’d be the one probing the walls for the door.


The Wasteland

Mad Max

The wasteland doesn’t reward the clever or the well-connected — it rewards those who are hard to kill and harder to break. That’s you.

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  • You don’t need comfort, community, or a cause larger than the next horizon.
  • You need a vehicle, a clear threat, and enough fuel to outrun it — and you’re good at all three.
  • You are unsentimental enough to survive that world, and decent enough — just barely — to be something more than another raider.
  • In the wasteland, that distinction is everything.


Los Angeles, 2049

Blade Runner

You’d survive here because you know how to exist in moral grey areas without losing yourself completely.

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  • You read people accurately, keep your circle small, and ask the questions others prefer not to answer.
  • In a city where humanity is a legal designation rather than a feeling, you hold onto something that keeps you functional.
  • You’re not a hero. But you’re not lost, either.
  • In Blade Runner’s world, that distinction is everything.


Arrakis

Dune

Arrakis is the most hostile environment in the known universe — and you are precisely the kind of person it rewards.

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  • Patience, discipline, and political awareness are your core strengths — and on Arrakis, they’re survival tools.
  • You understand that the long game matters more than any single victory.
  • Others come to Dune and are consumed by it. You’d learn its logic and earn its respect.
  • In time, you wouldn’t just survive Arrakis — you’d begin to reshape it.


A Galaxy Far, Far Away

Star Wars

The galaxy far, far away is vast, loud, and in a constant state of violent political upheaval — and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

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  • You find meaning in being part of something larger than yourself — a cause, a crew, a rebellion.
  • You’d gravitate toward the Rebellion, or the fringes, or whatever pocket of the galaxy still believes the Empire’s grip can be broken.
  • You fight — not because you have to, but because standing aside isn’t something you’re capable of.
  • In Star Wars, that willingness is what makes all the difference.

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‘Godzilla Minus One’ Director Takashi Yamazaki Is Teaming Up With Ridley Scott for a New Sci-Fi Movie

Earlier this week, news broke that Godzilla Minus One director Takashi Yamazaki is teaming up with Ridley Scott for his next sci-fi movie, Nue, which is coming to theaters at a currently unknown date. Scott is producing the new sci-fi feature through his long-running production banner, Scott Free, and Yamazaki is directing from a script he wrote. He’s expected to begin work on the film after Godzilla Minus Zero is out in theaters. Casting for Nue is also being kept under wraps at this time, as are any plot details about the film.

Check out the new trailer for Godzilla Minus Zero above and watch Godzilla Minus One on Netflix.


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Release Date

November 6, 2026

Director

Takashi Yamazaki

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Writers

Takashi Yamazaki

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  • Cast Placeholder Image

    Ryunosuke Kamiki

    Koichi Shikishima

  • Cast Placeholder Image

    Minami Hamabe

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    Noriko Oishi

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Olivia Rodrigo Responds With Bold Move After DHS Video

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Olivia Rodrigo attends the premiere of Netflix's Olivia Rodrigo: GUTS World Tour

Olivia Rodrigo isn’t letting outrage have the final word. After discovering that one of her biggest songs had been used in a Department of Homeland Security social media post promoting ICE deportations, the Grammy winner transformed her frustration into a broader campaign encouraging civic participation. 

Instead of allowing the controversy to dominate the narrative, Rodrigo is urging fans to get informed ahead of the 2026 midterm elections through a new initiative tied to her upcoming Daisy Chain Fields music festival.

Olivia Rodrigo recently recalled stumbling across the controversial Homeland Security video while scrolling through her phone, admitting the discovery left her shocked.

Speaking to Dazed Magazine in June ahead of the release of her third studio album, the singer said seeing “All-American B-tch” used alongside immigration enforcement footage made the situation even more upsetting.

“It was so deeply disturbing to see that propaganda, and the fact it was my song in there made me feel even more enraged,” Rodrigo said. “What they’re doing is so awful and barbaric and cruel. I am really sad to be in a country that thinks that’s okay.”

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The November 4, 2025 video featured footage of ICE agents detaining people of color while Rodrigo’s 2023 track played in the background. 

Alongside the images, the Department of Homeland Security wrote, “LEAVE NOW and self-deport using the CBP Home app. If you don’t, you will face the consequences,” while lyrics from the song, “All the time, I’m grateful all the time, I’m sexy and I’m kind, I’m pretty when I cry,” appeared throughout the clip.

Rodrigo didn’t stay silent as she responded directly beneath the post, writing, “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda.”

Following her comment, the audio was removed from the video, and fans praised her in the comments for speaking out.

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Rodrigo Launches Midterm Initiative Through Festival Giveaway

Olivia Rodrigo attends the premiere of Netflix's Olivia Rodrigo: GUTS World Tour
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Rather than limiting her response to social media, Olivia Rodrigo has tied her latest campaign to the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

The 23-year-old is partnering with nonprofit organization HeadCount to encourage fans to prepare for Election Day by checking their voter registration status, registering to vote, or accessing election information through the organization’s website.

As an incentive, participants can enter a sweepstakes for VIP tickets to Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival, with the grand prize also including hotel accommodations and travel expenses.

HeadCount emphasized that civic participation is entirely optional for anyone entering the giveaway.

“You may enter the sweepstakes by clicking any button above without taking a civic action,” the organization stated per The News Republic, adding, “Voting, registering to vote, or being a registered voter is not required.”

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Olivia Rodrigo’s Festival Will Blend Music And Advocacy

Olivia Rodrigo Performs on Today September 2023
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Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival is also being designed with activism at its core.

In addition to performances from artists including Chappell Roan, Doechii, Santigold, Sarah McLachlan, Mitski, and The Breeders, the event will feature organizations focused on issues ranging from reproductive rights and maternal health to economic empowerment, domestic violence prevention, and gender equity.

Among the participating organizations are the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, the Center for Reproductive Rights, Planned Parenthood, and the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health.

Rodrigo Speaks Out Against Los Angeles ICE Raids

Olivia Rodrigo at 2025 Planned Parenthood New York Gala
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Slamming the Department of Homeland Security wasn’t the first time Olivia Rodrigo spoke against Trump’s administration. 

In 2025, she joined the growing chorus of public figures condemning the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across Los Angeles, saying the operations left her “deeply upset.” 

In a statement shared on her Instagram Stories, the singer wrote, “I’ve lived in LA my whole life and I’m deeply upset about these violent deportations of my neighbors under the current administration.” 

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Rodrigo went on to praise the city’s immigrant communities, adding, “LA simply wouldn’t exist without immigrants. Treating hardworking community members with such little respect, empathy, and due process is awful.” 

She also voiced support for those protesting the raids, saying, “I stand with the beautiful, diverse community of Los Angeles and with immigrants all across America. I stand for our right to freedom of speech and freedom to protest.” 

Rodrigo concluded by urging fans to support local immigrant organizations and remain engaged during a period of heightened immigration enforcement.  

Rodrigo Explains Why She Refuses To Stay Silent On Politics

Olivia Rodrigo Stirs Up Controversy By Handing Out Morning-After Pills At Concert
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Olivia Rodrigo’s outspoken response came as little surprise, as she had previously opened up about why she chooses to use her platform to address political issues.

Last month, she revealed that speaking out on political issues has never been about winning everyone’s approval. 

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In an interview with the BBC, the Grammy winner reflected on why she continued to publicly address topics ranging from reproductive rights and Gaza to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), despite knowing it could alienate some fans. 

“I definitely try to be careful with my words,” Rodrigo said, adding, “But simultaneously, the women I looked up to when I was young were really outspoken, and that was one of the reasons I adored them.” 

The “High School Musical” actress added that she no longer felt pressure to appeal to everyone, explaining, “I don’t think my goal is to be liked by all. And when you de-centre that as the primary motivation, I think everything becomes a lot more joyful.”

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“The View” cohost Sara Haines reveals house emergency that led to absence from talk show: ‘Not very hopeful’

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Haines missed the show’s first new episode since June to handle an unexpected development at her home.

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Olivia Wilde’s Flowy Pants Elevate T-Shirts — The Look on Amazon

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white dress

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

Cool girl Olivia Wilde doesn’t dress in ‘bum’ attire, but her latest look proves that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for fashion. Her loose-fitting trousers style is incredibly luxe and polished, and we found a version that secretly feels like sweats.

Spotted in New York City, Wilde wore a simple tee, canvas tote and loafers — and elevated the entire look with billowy, ultra wide-leg trousers. Her pants turned a basic T-shirt into something genuinely classy, and these flowy wonders do the same. Nearly 15,000 shoppers sing their praises!

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These Tronjori Wide-Leg Trousers look identical to Wilde’s, featuring a high waist, sharp front pleats and a fluid drape that swings when you walk. The architectural shape reads expensive from across the street, making even a $10 tee look like it came from a Tribeca boutique.

white dress


Related: 17 Boutique-Style White Dresses That Make the Easiest Summer Uniform

Little black dresses have their place, but let’s be real — it’s summertime, and that means wearing chic white dresses. Whether you’re running errands, brunching with the girls or vacationing in Europe, these 17 staple stunners have you covered. With loose, billowy fits, unique details and the occasional embroidered accents, these boutique-like numbers look much […]

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We don’t know what Wilde’s felt like, but these white pants might be even comfier, thanks to the hidden elasticized waistband. One Amazon shopper wrote, “These are like breezy sweatpants for work! They are effortless and chic and elevate any look. The waistband is stretchy and they are certified sitting pants that won’t suffocate your stomach.”

Another happy fan shared, “I got an office job this year and realized I had no professional pants to wear. I’m a sweatpants person through and through. These are lightweight and comfortable, just like sweatpants!”

Add comfy loafers, your favorite bag and sunglasses, and you’ve got a uniform that carries you from in-office days to dinner reservations without a change of clothes.

As a bonus, these trendy trousers come in dozens of colors and short, regular and tall lengths. We’re partial to Wilde’s white style, but like many other reviewers, we’re also tempted to grab a few. At just $38, these chic pants are the easiest way to make any outfit appear expensive.

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Get the Tronjori Wide-Leg Trousers for $38 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

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

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free ShippingWelcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone. Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

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Jennifer Lawrence


Related: Jennifer Lawrence‘s Comfy Yet Elevated Pants Put Loungewear to Shame

Jennifer Lawrence is the queen of elevated loungewear, and this time, she’s outdone herself. Lawrence’s billowy black pants make her entire outfit appear expensive, and we found the comfy-chic look for only $20 on Amazon. Spotted pedaling through New York City, Lawrence wore a loose button-up shirt, slide sandals and flowy lounge pants. Unlike stiff […]

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Netflix Sci-Fi Thriller Mystery Series Still Has Fans Craving For More

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Netflix Sci-Fi Thriller Mystery Series Still Has Fans Craving For More

By Charlene Badasie
| Published

The mystery drama The OA is streaming on Netflix. Created by Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, the series consists of two seasons, each with eight episodes. Season 1 begins with a young woman named Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling) returning to her hometown after being missing for seven years. Despite having been blind before her disappearance, she reappears with her sight restored.

Follows The Original Angel

The OA

Prairie, who now calls herself The OA (Original Angel), refuses to share details of her missing years with her adoptive parents or the authorities. Instead, she recruits five local folks to whom she reveals her story. She describes her near-death experiences and visions, which she believes led her to other dimensions.

She was held captive by a scientist named Dr. Hap (Jason Isaacs), along with others who had near-death experiences. As the story of The OA on Netflix progresses, Prairie and her group decide to rescue those who are still being held captive by Dr. Hap’s experiments. The second season takes the story to a new dimension, where Prairie lives as wealthy Russian heiress Nina Azarova (Zoey Todorovsky).

The OA

As Nina continues her search for the other captives and seeks to uncover the truth behind her multiple realities. Season 2 also introduces detective Karim Washington (Kingsley Ben-Adir), who is investigating the disappearance of a young woman connected to a strange house with supernatural properties.

Breaks Down The Nature Of Reality

The OA weaves together Prairie’s journey and Karim’s investigation, leading to a climactic revelation about the nature of reality and the multiverse. Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij spent two years developing the series before Netflix picked it up. The show’s production involved extensive world-building and a commitment to maintaining its mysterious and philosophical tone.

The OA

The series received mostly positive reviews from critics following its Netflix debut. The OA, in its entirety, currently holds an 84 percent critic and audience score on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. However, the series did have some detractors who found the blend of sci-fi and supernatural elements overly ambiguous and slow-paced.

Uses Every Available Cent Of Its Production Budget

The OA

The OA showcases low-budget Netflix sci-fi at its best, using everyday suburban settings like Costco and Olive Garden to tell a compelling story. Minimal CGI is used, except for a few key scenes. Instead, the immersive experience is achieved through Brit Marling’s soothing narration, Ryan Heffington’s choreography, and Rostam Batmanglij’s enchanting theme song.

At its core, The OA on Netflix highlights the importance of second chances and acceptance. The OA’s group comprises several flawed individuals from all walks of life whose imperfections make them special yet vulnerable. Prairie connects with them not because they are perfect but because of their potential to grow as a collective.

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The OA

Despite its critical acclaim, The OA was canceled by Netflix after two seasons, leaving the show with a cliffhanger ending. Fans later launched a campaign to save it, including a physical performance in front of Netflix headquarters and a GoFundMe campaign for a Times Square billboard. Although a movie to provide closure was considered, the idea was ultimately scrapped by Netflix.


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Netflix Sci-Fi Adventure Is The Best Satire You’ll See In Years

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Netflix Sci-Fi Adventure Is The Best Satire You'll See In Years

By Jeffrey Rapaport
| Published

Okja was and remains a unique, memorable Netflix original, and that is saying something, considering that other titles on the platform include Squid Game and Stranger Things. The movie masterfully blends sci-adventure goodness with biting, surprisingly engaging satire. But that’s what one expects from the beloved director Bong Joon-ho, whose film, despite its family-friendly aesthetic, deftly navigates the admittedly complex world of corporate greed, animal rights, and the food industry. 

The ultimate narrative is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking; think Pixar meets Parasite. 

Genetically Modified Super-Pig

Okja 2017

The film relates the tale of young Mija, played by Ahn Seo-hyun, an adolescent launched on a daring mission to rescue her best friend, a genetically modified super-pig, Okja. Said super-hog is in the dastardly clutches of the all-powerful Mirando Corporation, a shadowy, massively influential entity headed by an eccentric (to put it mildly), morally ambiguous CEO, Lucy Mirando, portrayed by Tilda Swinton

Unsurprisingly, Mirando harbors sinister plans for the poor pig, considering the animal little more than a prospective piggy bank. 

Not A Feel-Good Flick

Okja 2017

Before you file this movie under the category of feel-good flick ideal for kids, consider that it’s endowed with an uncommonly sharp satirical edge. As much as in the rest of his filmography, Bong Joon-ho utilized Okja as a vehicle to seamlessly blend genres. 

Comedy, sci-fi, drama, and even bits of horror fuse masterfully, eventuating a merciless critique of the heartless modern food industry alongside the difficult ethical dilemmas it poses. For example, the movie does not pull punches when it comes to portraying the Mirando Corporation as a kind of larger-than-life, slightly surreal Monsanto (obviously, the film’s name references this real-life corporate agro-business behemoth). 

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Okja 2017

The scathing commentary, detailing unflinchingly the distance companies go to reap profit, regardless of ethics or humanity, strikes a nerve. Through the endlessly talented Swinton, Lucy Mirando embodies this theme wonderfully: she’s Okja’s superb, loathsome, fascinating villain, a latter day Cruella de Vil. 

And the movie’s satire does not halt there, but includes the world of activism in its sights. Indeed, the Animal Liberation Front endures as much satire as the corporate world; led by the earnest yet flawed Jay, played by Paul Dano, the group employs misguided and extreme measures, reflecting this much disapproved tendency of activist groups. 

The Animal Liberation Front Called Into Question

Okja 2017

In all fairness, while Joon-ho doesn’t shy away from giving ALF their due, the filmmaker also documents their noble intentions, layered atop their questionable tactics. Genuine complexity results, which enriches the film overall. 

Perhaps most memorably, the movie is more than mere critique; it is a deeply emotional saga of friendship and loyalty. The incredibly resonant bond between Mija and Okja is the beating heart of the film, one that strikingly elicits much feels.

Stream Okja On Netflix Today

Acting as a sharp contrast to the cold, calculated Mirando Corp, the relationship conveys genuine innocence and purity–however surrounded by widespread corruption and exploitation. 

Visually, too, the film delivers, particularly when it comes to the CGI used to engender the super-pig. While CGI can sometimes flop, it excels here, eventuating a believable and endearing creature. Particularly, the film’s cinematography—especially the scene’s location in the lush highlands of South Korea or the teeming NYC streets—supplies welcome visual appeal.

For a winsome, emotionally gripping, and impressively smart satire, stream Okja on Netflix today.

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Raunchy, Extremely R-Rated Comedy Is A Broke Bachelor’s Worst Nightmare

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Raunchy, Extremely R-Rated Comedy Is A Broke Bachelor’s Worst Nightmare

By Robert Scucci
| Published

The late 90s and early aughts were rife with raunchy comedies, some of which fared better than others. 1998’s There’s Something About Mary was an instant classic that cleaned house at the box office, and 2005’s The 40-Year-Old Virgin marked a return to form for the genre. Those years in between, however, produced some rough entries that are all but forgotten today because they placed too much emphasis on tasteless gags over meaningful storytelling. 2001’s Tomcats is one such film, and it’s honestly a rough watch, but not for the reasons you’d think.

The film’s overall setup, conflict, and story beats are all solid, believe it or not, but they’re simply used as a springboard for as many raunchy gags as humanly possible. If you’re into that kind of thing, you’ll probably have a good time with Tomcats, but I have no qualms saying its 13 percent critical score on Rotten Tomatoes comes from the fact that most of these gags don’t add anything to the movie. Instead, they pad the runtime with cheap laughs rather than character development.

A Great Wager And Setup

Tomcats starts at a wedding, where a group of bachelors make a wager. They all throw money into a high-yield account, and the last single man standing gets to claim the pot. As time passes and interest accrues, we’re left with two bachelors, Michael Delaney (Jerry O’Connell) and Kyle Brenner (Jake Busey), and roughly $500,000 up for grabs.

After a falling out with his girlfriend, Shelby (Julia Schultz), Michael racks up a substantial gambling debt with a casino pit boss named Carlos (Bill Maher), who says in no uncertain terms that if the money isn’t paid back within 30 days, he’ll be killed. Knowing the only way he can make good on what he owes, Michael hatches a plan to trick Kyle into getting married.

Tomcats 2001

Michael learns there’s only one woman Kyle would ever consider settling down with: Natalie (Shannon Elizabeth), a woman he had a one-night stand with at a wedding years earlier, ditched on the side of the road with a roll of quarters, and thinks of as the one that got away. As it turns out, Natalie works as an undercover officer, knows how to profile people, and agrees to sabotage Kyle’s bachelor lifestyle in exchange for half the winnings. At this point, we only vaguely know about Natalie’s history with Kyle, and the fun comes from wondering whether she’s simply in it for the money or if that’s just an added bonus to a revenge plot she has against him.

From this point forward, it’s basically a sizzle reel of sex gags, gamer words, and even an entire sequence involving a lost testicle at the hospital that adds about 10 minutes but no substance to the story. It will, however, probably make you want to throw up in your mouth. You’ll know it when you see it.

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Too Much Funny Equals Not Funny

Tomcats 2001

Odds are, if you’re firing up Tomcats, it’s because you’re looking for some offensive humor to gawk at, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem is that movies like this focus more on the gags than the storytelling, which is a shame. This is exactly the kind of humor I’m tuning in for, but it needs to be anchored in somewhat believable scenarios and carried by people who are at least a little likable.

That’s why There’s Something About Mary and Knocked Up work while this film fails to stick the landing. Michael isn’t necessarily an unlikable protagonist, but he doesn’t have much of a personality either. He’s just a conduit for jokes. Kyle, who’s supposed to be his foil, is the most reprehensible womanizer to ever grace the silver screen, and his exploits are fun to watch, especially when they backfire. But again, he’s just another conduit for jokes that could just as easily be swapped with any other male character in the movie.

Tomcats 2001

It’s almost as if every guy in this movie is based on the same archetype. One’s a little smarter, one’s a little more sensitive, and so on. They’re all variations of the same guy, so whenever a joke needs to be jammed into a scene, anybody can reliably deliver it. As much as this sounds like a good idea, it doesn’t work in a comedy where you’re dealing with some pretty awful people from start to finish.

The romance between Michael and Natalie develops into a satisfying arc, but by the time we get there, it’s one lost testicle, Jake Busey in a thong, and a grandma dominatrix scene too late. There’s simply too much schtick without ever giving you room to breathe.

Tomcats 2001

Is Tomcats a misunderstood classic? Far from it. Is it 13 percent bad? I’m inclined to say no, but I wouldn’t put it above 30 percent either. It’s one of those films that relies on you trusting your own taste and whether you enjoy the talent involved. There are some clever one-liners and sight gags worth checking out, but the whole is far less than the sum of its parts.

As of this writing, Tomcats is streaming free on Tubi.


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10 Best Video Games Based on TV Shows, Ranked

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A screenshot from Beavis & Butt-Head

Watching reruns after reruns of a show can be so fulfilling. The comfort of knowing how it ends, but still enjoying it, feels like heaven. But what if there was another way to immerse oneself in the beautiful memory without having to start a rerun? Here’s the secret: video games. There’s so much more to explore in the world, and if you’re a gamer, you will know how a game helps you admire it and refresh after a hard day, all at the same time.

But where’s the connection, you ask? Over the years, some incredible TV shows have been made into user-friendly video games that let you improve your skills and reminisce about old shows simultaneously. And if your favorite show is one of those, make it a point to play the game now!

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10

‘Beavis & Butt-Head’ (1994)

A screenshot from Beavis & Butt-Head

Beavis and Butt-Head, the sneering idlers from MTV’s hit animated comedy series, got their own game on the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo in 1994. In the game, Beavis and Butt-Head have obtained tickets to a Gwar concert, but as luck would have it, they’re now in shreds.

Players can alternate playing as Beavis or Butt-Head as they search high and low for the pieces of the ticket. While the game is relatively simple, the animation, voice acting, and music make it remarkable, which will make you feel like you are a character in the 2-D world.

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9

‘Duck Tales: Remastered’ (2013)

A screenshot from Duck Tales: Remastered

A classic action game from Capcom, DuckTales: Remastered allows users to take control of Scrooge McDuck as he tours the world and beyond, looking for more rare treasures to add to his collection. The game is relatively simple and boasts of being a platformer-style game. The game sold over a million copies worldwide, a considerable number by 1990 standards.

While initially released for PlayStation 3, the iOS version of DuckTales garnered better reviews. The game isn’t highly competitive but is definitely fun, interactive, and nostalgic.

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8

‘The Adventures of Batman & Robin’ (1994)

A screenshot from The Adventures Of Batman & Robin

What comes to mind when you think of the ’90s? Chicago Bulls a contending team? Nostalgic ’90s cartoons? MTV’s fantastic music? Even better: Konami producing awesome action games? It was then that The Adventures of Batman & Robin was released, following the hit Batman: The Animated Series.

The game offered incredible graphics and sound and features some incredibly challenging puzzles that players must solve over the course of the game. Directly influenced by the TV show, the game has the same cartoony and comic-book feel. But, of course, this was long before Christopher Nolan steered the franchise towards a darker version.

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7

‘Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3’ (2004)

A screenshot from Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3

The Dragon Ball game series launched its first installment in 2002 and lasted until its last release in 2012. The third installment in the series, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3, was released in 2004 and was the most talked-about. The game had better reviews than its predecessors, with improved graphics and sound, and the gameplay was far ahead of the previous games.

Players can play in story mode, versus mode, a tournament, and a battle ranking stage where they compete against AI in a hundred-fighter challenge. Its massive roster of playable fighters and faithful recreation of iconic battles make it one of the greatest Dragon Ball games ever released.

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6

‘Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force’ (2000)

A screenshot from Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force

The Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force is loved far and wide by audiences, but only for its PC version, which came out in 2000. The PlayStation version, however, is way less interactive and way more troublesome. Nevertheless, the game invoked sighs of relief from fans as they rejoiced and finally welcomed a good Star Trek game.

The game incorporates an array of characters and visually pleasing settings from the beloved sci-fi TV show. The game also includes a multiplayer mode that makes it more appealing and adds to its longevity. By combining satisfying first-person shooter mechanics with an original story that feels like an episode of the series, Elite Force remains a favorite among fans.











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Collider Exclusive · Sci-Fi Survival Quiz
Which Sci-Fi World Would You Survive?
The Matrix · Mad Max · Blade Runner · Dune · Star Wars
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Five universes. Five completely different ways the future went wrong — or sideways, or up in flames. Only one of them is the world your instincts were built for. Eight questions will figure out which dystopia, galaxy, or desert wasteland you’d actually make it out of alive.

💊The Matrix

🔥Mad Max

🌧️Blade Runner

🏜️Dune

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🚀Star Wars

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01

You sense something is deeply wrong with the world around you. What do you do?
The first instinct is often the truest one.





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02

In a world of scarcity, what resource do you guard most fiercely?
What we protect reveals what we believe survival actually requires.





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03

What kind of threat keeps you up at night?
Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.





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04

How do you deal with authority you don’t trust?
Every dystopia has a power structure. Your approach to it determines everything.





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05

Which environment could you actually endure long-term?
Survival isn’t just tactical — it’s physical, psychological, and very much about where you are.





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06

Who do you want in your corner when things fall apart?
The company you keep is the clearest signal of who you actually are.





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07

Where do you draw the line — if you draw one at all?
Every survivor eventually faces a moment that tests what they’re actually made of.





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08

What would actually make survival worth it?
Staying alive is one thing. Having a reason to is another.





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Your Fate Has Been Calculated
You’d Survive In…

Your answers point to the world your instincts were built for. This is the universe your temperament, your survival instincts, and your particular brand of stubbornness were made for.

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The Resistance, Zion

The Matrix

You took the red pill a long time ago — probably before anyone offered it to you. You’re a systems thinker who can’t help but notice the seams in things.

  • You’re drawn to understanding how the system works before figuring out how to break it.
  • You’d find the Resistance, or it would find you — your instinct for spotting constructed realities is the machines’ worst nightmare.
  • You function best when you have access to information and the freedom to act on it.
  • The Matrix built an airtight prison. You’d be the one probing the walls for the door.

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The Wasteland

Mad Max

The wasteland doesn’t reward the clever or the well-connected — it rewards those who are hard to kill and harder to break. That’s you.

  • You don’t need comfort, community, or a cause larger than the next horizon.
  • You need a vehicle, a clear threat, and enough fuel to outrun it — and you’re good at all three.
  • You are unsentimental enough to survive that world, and decent enough — just barely — to be something more than another raider.
  • In the wasteland, that distinction is everything.

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Los Angeles, 2049

Blade Runner

You’d survive here because you know how to exist in moral grey areas without losing yourself completely.

  • You read people accurately, keep your circle small, and ask the questions others prefer not to answer.
  • In a city where humanity is a legal designation rather than a feeling, you hold onto something that keeps you functional.
  • You’re not a hero. But you’re not lost, either.
  • In Blade Runner’s world, that distinction is everything.

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Arrakis

Dune

Arrakis is the most hostile environment in the known universe — and you are precisely the kind of person it rewards.

  • Patience, discipline, and political awareness are your core strengths — and on Arrakis, they’re survival tools.
  • You understand that the long game matters more than any single victory.
  • Others come to Dune and are consumed by it. You’d learn its logic and earn its respect.
  • In time, you wouldn’t just survive Arrakis — you’d begin to reshape it.

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A Galaxy Far, Far Away

Star Wars

The galaxy far, far away is vast, loud, and in a constant state of violent political upheaval — and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

  • You find meaning in being part of something larger than yourself — a cause, a crew, a rebellion.
  • You’d gravitate toward the Rebellion, or the fringes, or whatever pocket of the galaxy still believes the Empire’s grip can be broken.
  • You fight — not because you have to, but because standing aside isn’t something you’re capable of.
  • In Star Wars, that willingness is what makes all the difference.
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5

‘South Park: The Stick of Truth’ (2014)

A screenshot from South Park: The Stick Of Truth
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In fierce competition with its successor, The Fractured but Whole, South Park: The Stick of Truth is one of the most faithful video game adaptations of all time. While otherwise at par with its sequel, the game features a more exciting and dynamic combat system. This role-playing adventure game came out in 2014 and was rated approvingly for its PC and PlayStation 3 versions.

The South Park game is based on an open-world model and includes countless inside jokes and references to the first 17 seasons for fans to reminisce. For longtime fans, it’s packed with enough references and characters to make every moment feel like an interactive episode of the series.

4

‘South Park: The Fractured but Whole’ (2017)

Coon and Friends from South Park: The Fractured but Whole
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While The Stick of Truth is often considered the definitive South Park game, The Fractured but Whole is every bit as worthy of that reputation. Instead of parodying fantasy role-playing games, the sequel shifts its focus to the ever-growing popularity of superhero franchises, with Cartman rebranding himself as “The Coon” and recruiting the rest of the boys into an increasingly ridiculous battle over who deserves to headline their own cinematic universe.

Created with direct involvement from Trey Parker and Matt Stone, The Fractured but Whole feels like a playable season of South Park. Its turn-based combat is deeper and more strategic than its predecessor’s, while the dialogue, animation, and countless references perfectly recreate the experience of watching the long-running animated series.

3

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991)

A screenshot from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time
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Even several decades after its release, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time is yet to be defeated when it comes to the ultimate TMNT game. The game is a sequel to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and while it takes some characteristics from the original, it ups the ante with the use of colorful graphics and varied level settings.

The Konami classic captures the essence of the ’80s cartoon show with utmost perfection and adorns an eclectic palette of extraordinary situations with incredible historical themes.

2

‘The Simpsons: Hit & Run’ (2003)

A screenshot from The Simpsons: Hit & Run
A screenshot from The Simpsons: Hit & Run
Image via Radical Entertainment
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Since its release, numerous versions of The Simpsons video games have been made, but The Simpsons: Hit & Run is the only one you need to own. The game came out in 2003 for the GameCube, PlayStation 2, Windows, and Xbox. What separates this version from the others is its existence as a witty parody of the Grand Theft Auto series, only less brutal and much funnier.

In this well-received and competently executed game, users control Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Apu as they investigate odd occurrences in Springfield. Nearly two decades later, Hit & Run remains the gold standard for The Simpsons games and one of the greatest licensed games ever made.

1

‘The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series’ (2012)

A screenshot from The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series
A screenshot from The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series
Image via Telltale Games
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There is no better way to execute episodic games than Telltale Games, and it’s no surprise that the attempt to create the exhilarating The Walking Dead game was a whopping success. Technically, the game is based more on the comic than the show, where every action you perform has a different consequence and can change the story’s route.

The game focuses on character and story development and often feels like you’re playing an interactive rendition of the sensational show. Critically acclaimed, The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series is as accurate a zombie apocalypse simulation as it gets.

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