Entertainment
33 Years Later, This Sci-Fi Satire With a Stacked Cast Deserves a Second Look
Throughout the late 1970s and ‘80s, Sylvester Stallone was an action star who demanded to be taken seriously. In early work from Rocky to Rambo, there was almost this refusal to wink at the audience — a solemnity to whatever battle was unfolding on-screen, whether Stallone’s leading man was fighting for his life in the ring or on the run. But by the 1990s, Stallone’s reign as action star had taken on some levity. Call it a product of the time or simply a product of Stallone learning to have a little more fun with his career, but his third decade as a screen legend involves significantly more humor and self-deprecation than what came before.
Case in point: 1993’s Demolition Man. What could have been a completely earnest and straightforward cop-versus-criminal thriller is instead a gleefully over-the-top blend of sci-fi action and comedy. The result is a film that has aged far better than many of its contemporaries, thanks largely to its willingness to poke fun at both action movie clichés and the culture surrounding them. First-time director Marco Brambilla and screenwriter Daniel Waters (of Heathers fame) leaned into the absurdity — and in doing so, didn’t just create a fun popcorn flick, but ended up predicting the future of our increasingly stupid reality 33 years later.
‘Demolition Man’ Is as Much a Satire of Stallone As It Is of Society
The setup: In 1996, reckless Los Angeles cop John Spartan (Stallone) and homicidal criminal Simon Phoenix (Wesley Snipes) are both sentenced to cryogenic imprisonment after a disastrous hostage rescue goes horribly wrong. Decades later, Phoenix escapes into the futuristic city of “San Angeles,” where society has progressed so much that cops now have very little experience dealing with violent criminals of his ilk. With no one else on the force capable of stopping him, authorities thaw Spartan and ask him to hunt down his old foe.
Stallone plays Spartan completely straight-faced, but that doesn’t mean he’s not having fun with it. Much like his performance in Judge Dredd a few years later, Stallone’s the comedic foil that makes the whole ridiculous thing work. Demolition Man imagines a very stupid future — not unlike, say, Idiocracy — that make no-nonsense Stallone types feel antiquated. Here, you’ve got a stoic action star thrust into a future where profanity is illegal, fast food places are all Taco Bell, and toilet paper has been replaced by three mysterious seashells. Stallone’s self-seriousness in the face of all this is what lands every joke.
And if that’s not clear enough of a joke, there’s also the supporting cast of comedians to consider. Denis Leary steals scenes as underground resistance leader Edgar Friendly, there to deliver the kind of sarcastic, rapid-fire monologues that made him a comedy star for a minute. Rob Schneider’s also on hand, as is Jack Black in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it background role. They join a very game Sandra Bullock as Stallone’s partner, plus the aforementioned Snipes, who’s clearly having the time of his life.
It’s So ’90s It Hurts — But It Still Holds Up More Than Three Decades Later
What separates Demolition Man from the countless other action-thrillers in Stallone’s oeuvre is how confidently it embraces its comedy. Rather than simply imagining flying cars and futuristic weapons, the film builds an entire society around exaggerated ideas of policed speech, strict public health, and corporate homogenization, with both sides taking hits. At the time of its release, it certainly felt like more of a critique of the newly established Clinton administration than the recently concluded Reagan-then-Bush run. Rampant consumerism, extreme public health initiatives, mass surveillance, laws governing people’s sexuality… But when viewed in 2026, the target of its Brave New World-inspired spoof has changed sides.
Critics were (and, often, still are) divided on this one, but one thing they could agree on was that Demolition Man was more self-aware than the average Stallone blockbuster. Audiences showed up for it, too: It grossed $159 million worldwide, which is only further proof of this being one of the actor’s best. Present day, Demolition Man still entertains. The way it blends together explosive action, broad comedy, science-fiction world-building, and a wacky ensemble shouldn’t work, but it still does. Check it out while it’s currently streaming free on Tubi.
Demolition Man
- Release Date
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October 8, 1993
- Runtime
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115 minutes
- Director
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Marco Brambilla
- Writers
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Daniel Waters, Peter M. Lenkov, Robert Reneau
Entertainment
Frank LoPiccolo Takes On Energy Drink Giants With TIGERLYFE
The energy-drink business is a jungle ruled by billion-dollar brands, celebrity campaigns, and cans promising ever-bigger jolts. Frank LoPiccolo is walking straight into it with a tiger on his packaging—and he is not stopping at energy.
The Farmingdale, New York entrepreneur has built TIGERLYFE as a premium lifestyle brand spanning two very different drinking occasions: TIGERLYFE Premium Energy for consumers seeking everyday drive, and TIGERLYFE Ultra-Premium Vodka for adults looking for a bold, polished spirit. The products are not presented as a combination. They are separate expressions of the same idea: resilience, ambition, and living with purpose.
LoPiccolo founded TIGERLYFE in 2016 around values the company describes as resilience, elegance, determination, and excellence. The question behind it all is simple: “What’s Your Y in Lyfe?” In other words, what makes you train harder, build longer, take another risk, or keep moving when quitting would be easier?

That founder-led story matters because TIGERLYFE is selling personality as much as liquid. LoPiccolo is visible in the brand, at events, and in its social presence, presenting himself as someone prepared to challenge established players. The name, tiger graphics, and repeated focus on discipline give the company a recognizable voice across both categories.
On the daytime side of the business, TIGERLYFE calls itself “The Cleaner Energy Drink.” Its red-can Original is positioned with cane sugar, zero sodium, B vitamins, and potassium. Its blue-can Maltese Sugar-Free alternative is promoted as a zero-sugar option sweetened with stevia, also featuring B vitamins and potassium. The brand’s official messaging connects the drinks with clean, revitalizing energy, active lifestyles, and sustained performance rather than relying only on louder caffeine claims.

Visually, the two cans are designed to work as a pair. Red delivers heat and intensity; blue signals the lighter, sugar-free choice. Both carry the same staring tiger, making the product easy to recognize.

That gives LoPiccolo a clear angle in a packed category. The largest energy brands frequently sell speed, extremes, and spectacle. TIGERLYFE sells motivation. Its tiger emblem represents controlled power, while the “Y in Lyfe” idea turns the consumer into part of the story.
The company also links the energy line with sports and fighting events, where determination and preparation naturally fit the brand. But LoPiccolo’s intended audience is wider than athletes. TIGERLYFE speaks to entrepreneurs, creators, workers, and anyone pursuing a goal that demands consistency.

Then the lights go down, the black bottle comes out, and TIGERLYFE shifts into a different world.
TIGERLYFE Ultra-Premium Vodka is the centerpiece of the company’s spirits operation. The flagship unflavored vodka is made from American grains, distilled ten times, and blended with natural spring water. Bottled at 40% alcohol by volume, it is described by the brand as rich, elegant, and exceptionally smooth, with subtle citrus notes and a long, clean finish.

The bottle does much of the talking. Finished in black with gold lettering and an embossed tiger, it looks designed for back bars, VIP tables, and premium retail displays. It carries the same animal identity as the energy cans but translates it from daytime performance into nighttime sophistication.
The vodka portfolio also gives TIGERLYFE room to play with color and flavor. The company presents Sapphire Raspberry and Tropical Punch expressions at 35% alcohol by volume, while Wild Cherry is listed as an additional flavored extension. Its cocktail platform includes names such as Liberty Lemonade, Wild Frontier Mule, Tropical Tiger Punch, and Sapphire Raspberry Martini—language built for bars, events, and social content.
That crossover is the real business story. LoPiccolo is not trying to create one successful drink and stop. He is developing an ecosystem in which energy, spirits, apparel, and other products share the same tiger identity and purpose-led message.
There is risk in stretching one name across alcohol and energy. The occasions must remain clearly separated, the audiences handled responsibly, and the brand architecture kept disciplined. Done badly, the proposition could become confusing. Done well, TIGERLYFE can follow consumers across different parts of their lifestyle without losing its central identity.
And that identity is unmistakable: strength without apology, premium presentation, and a founder who wants the brand to mean more than what is inside a can or bottle.
LoPiccolo still faces the hardest part. Beverage giants have deep pockets, extensive distribution, and enormous influence over shelf space. TIGERLYFE must build awareness, secure retail placements, support distributors, and persuade consumers to buy again after the first striking impression.
But challenger brands rarely win by looking like smaller versions of the market leaders. They win by giving people a reason to remember them.
Frank LoPiccolo believes TIGERLYFE has that reason—and he has reduced it to one question.
What’s your Y in Lyfe?
Entertainment
90 Day Fiance: Catie Norboe Wants to Keep the Door Open – Recap [S12E13]
On 90 Day Fiance, Catie Norboe and friends celebrate her bachelorette party with a bride or die themed party and she reveals she wants to leave the door open. Marissa Rubinetti scolds Edward Miguel Gomez when he fibs about going through her phone. Rasit Kebabci takes a hard line when it comes to Mallorie DeGrange not wanting kids. And Shea McGuire tries to patch things up between Annabelle Chua and his daughter Allison. Let’s dive in to the drama in this recap of Season 12, Episode 13 Do I Stay or Do I Go.
90 Day Fiance: Catie Norboe Wants an Open Marriage
Catie prepares for her bachelorette party on 90 Day Fiancé. She’s been trying to curb the urge to drink too much and make out with her friends. And asks Josh Atkins for some boundaries on bachelorette night. He states the obvious, no drinking till she blacks out and no making out with randoms. She agrees to try and plants a kiss on Josh before heading out to meet her friends. The theme of the party is “Bride or Die” and the girls all dress in black for the funeral of Catie’s freedom.
But Catie isn’t ready to let her freedom die. She is thrilled with the decorations that include a casket. Catie is quick to admit that her intimacy with Josh is a little vanilla. And she fears being unsatisfied having to remain monogamous. A game of never have I ever ensues and Catie shames her less promiscuous pals. She shocks everyone when she admits she would like to keep the door open after marriage for some outside action.
On 90 Day Fiancé, Catie maintains that she’s willing to approach the subject of an open marriage with Josh. The others wonder if he too would partake in extramarital flings. Catie admits he probably wouldn’t want to. It gets a bit uncomfortable. But Catie is wide open when it comes to being limited in having multiple partners. So, Josh’s reaction to the whole scenario remains to be seen.


90 Day Fiance: Marissa Has Cold Feet
On 90 Day Fiance, the clock is running out for Marissa and Edward. With just two weeks left to marry, Marissa’s doubts are growing. And she tells Edward she isn’t sure if she’s on board. Edward is angry and stomps off. Later at her New York City apartment the pair get into a big argument that Marissa describes as breakup worthy. They sleep separate. Her in the bed and him on the couch.
In the morning Marissa suggests they talk. Over coffee and breakfast at a sidewalk cafe, she lays out her frustrations. He needs to give her space and be more independent. She calls him manipulative for tricking her into believing he went through her phone and found she had been in touch with her ex. She admitted she has remained friends with him and did talk to him. But Edward was bluffing. Leading Marissa to amp up her doubts even more as the wedding day looms.
TLC Couple Rasit and Mallorie Struggle
The honeymoon may be over before it even starts for 90 Day Fiance couple Mallorie DeGrange and Rasit. Initially the pair seemed legit head over heels with each other. Until the roadblocks started piling up including her relationship with her ex, Brandon, her unwillingness to purchase a luxury bidet and Mallorie wanting Rasit to sign a prenup to protect her assets. But the final straw is her not wanting children.
Rasit rings up his brother for moral support. His brother agrees that her not wanting kids is a dealbreaker. Mallorie suggests a trip to a wedding venue to break the ice. While both enjoy the tour of the beautiful grounds, Rasit admits his heart and head aren’t in it. He really wants kids. And if Mallorie doesn’t, he says he will walk away. Mallorie then doubts the marriage too since he shows no empathy towards her past trauma.
90 Day Fiance: Shea McGuire Plays Peacemaker
Shea works up a sweat doing Zumba with his 90 Day Fiancé Annabelle. He even gets lucky after when Annabelle joins him in the shower. But Shea lets Annabelle know he wants her to make it right with his daughter Allison. The pair aren’t getting along after Annabelle mocked Allison’s church. Shea urges Annabelle to get to know Allison and share a little about herself. He invites Allison to accompany Annabelle to shop for wedding veils.
Allison mopes in the back seat while Shea encourages the women to talk. Allison calls Annabelle a b*tch. So it’s awkward in the dress shop until Annabelle opens up. She has empathy for Allison losing her mother. And reveals the infidelity in her first marriage that resulted in a child to another woman. Annabelle vows to be there for Allison. And Allison agrees to a hug and a fresh start with Annabelle as her stepmom.
Ashia’s Family Not Sold on Maxwell
Ashia Montgomery is hustling up a quick wedding in Nigeria. Her family has arrived including outspoken God brother Rod. He fires off questions to Maxwell Okeke. Going as far as to indicate he thinks he could be a scammer. Ashia defends Maxwell as does his family. Next, Ashia’s family wants to know about the actual ceremony on 90 Day Fiancé. Maxwell’s mom says it won’t be the traditional Igbo ceremony. But they will dress Ashia traditionally and forbid any alcohol since they are Christian.
God brother Rod suggests he will bring his own booze to tolerate the wedding. He pulls Maxwell aside to question his motives some more. Calling him a slick salesman. Maxwell considers him insulting. But Rod doesn’t care. He doesn’t think Maxwell is established. And fears he will flounder in America like a newborn baby. He says Ashia shouldn’t marry for potential. And Maxwell feels disrespected.
90 Day Fiance: Thomas Makes a Stink over Deodorant
90 Day Fiancé couple Thomas Dintino and Paula Barbosa head to taste wedding cakes. They’ve found a bakery that accommodates both her vegan preferences and his dairy allergy. But Thomas is annoyed that Paula sprayed deodorant in the apartment. And accuses her of not caring about his sensitivities to scents. Paula tries to joke about it. But he doubles down on her choice of perfumes and deodorants calling them extraordinarily bad.
Things get better as they enjoy cake tasting. But they argue again when Paula reveals her family will be arriving for the wedding and staying at their apartment. A total of eight people. Thomas finds this ridiculous. Especially when Paula suggests giving his parents their bedroom. He rants that his home is his safe space. And that nobody better be terrorizing him with perfumes and deodorants during their stay. Till next time!
Entertainment
Barry Manilow Makes Another Abrupt Show Cancellation
Barry Manilow‘s fans suffer another crushing blow!
The singer seemingly shelved another performance for the second time this year, months after he postponed a few dates to focus on addressing his lung cancer diagnosis.
Barry Manilow revealed that he was diagnosed with stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer in late 2025 after his doctor ordered an MRI after dealing with a lengthy episode of bronchitis.

The songwriter shocked his fans by canceling his Tuesday night concert in Lexington. The announcement was made via X minutes before he was billed to take the stage at Rupp Arena, and he did not give a reason for the sudden rescheduling.
The Lexington show was postponed back in March when it was originally scheduled amid his recovery from surgery for his lung cancer. Rupp Arena has since assured ticket buyers that all previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the newly announced dates.
Page Six reported that a significant number of tickets for the standard package were still on sale, ranging from $39 to $578, while fan club tickets had sold out on Tuesday, August 4. Manilow is, however, expected to appear in Cincinnati, Ohio, for another leg of performances on Wednesday, August 5.
The ‘Could It Be Magic’ Hitmaker Was Uncertain About Regaining His Voice Post-Surgery

As shared by The Blast in early June, Manilow disclosed that his stage one cancer surgery was successful, but he harbored one concerning fear about the state of his vocals.
The singer shared that his left lung was taken out during the surgery, and he got to realize just how it may impact his career during his first soundcheck after his surgery.
Manilow was billed to open his first stadium show on June 25, ahead of his Las Vegas residency, which was slated for July. He confessed that his voice felt so unfamiliar, and that realization left him at a crossroads about whether to return to performing or move on.
“That is really upsetting. Because I don’t want it to stop,” the star noted, as he admitted that edging so close to losing a voice everyone once treasured made him value the richness of his tone differently.
To address his diagnosis, Manilow revealed that he did not go through chemotherapy or radiation, as medics confirmed it was an early-stage tumor, which was sorted by a successful procedure.
Barry Manilow Did Not Have Smooth Sailing During Surgery Recovery

The performer shared that his cancer was discovered after his doctor decided to conduct more tests into his six-week battle with bronchitis, which led him straight to the roots of his health issues. He revealed that his team of doctors saw the spot on his lungs and, in their urgency, called for a surgical procedure almost instantly.
As soon as the process was done, Manilow headed into recovery, which totally left a not-so-great taste on his tongue as he had to deal with pneumonia. This interference in his health landed him in the intensive care unit, and he spent most of his time there wondering if he would make it out alive.
He also did a lot of introspection about his music and its effect on people over the years, wondering if he had made people happy. Manilow’s experience with the kind medical staff who tended to him in recovery also gave him hope that there is so much good in the world.
Throughout his career, Manilow has recorded and released over 51 chart-topping singles, including 13 number-one hits, and 13 platinum and 6 multi-platinum albums. The singer has sold over 85 million records worldwide as a solo artist, earning him a spot on the list of the world’s best-selling artists.
The 83-Year-Old Chose Healing Over Comeback Post Cancer Surgery

USA Today shared earlier in the year that Manilow announced in an Instagram post that he has decided to reschedule all performances from February through mid-March. He explained that despite maintaining a regular wellness routine ahead of an early-stage return, he still found it hard to sustain notes without taking breaks.
The singer added that, while he received a positive update from his doctor about his recovery, his doctor sternly warned him against considering a 90-minute performance. Although he was disappointed, the singer agreed that a quick comeback could jeopardize the pace of his recovery.
The music producer expressed optimism about returning to his Las Vegas residency later in March and early April, while profusely apologizing for the additional postponements and promising that his comeback would be worth it.
Barry Manilow Uncovered A New Purpose In Being A Grandfather Before His Health Episode

The music producer had been riding high after welcoming his first grandchild a few years before his lung cancer surgery. The Blast shared that the singer confessed that he never imagined stepping into fatherhood, but watching his granddaughter grow has been an experience of a lifetime.
Manilow stepped into grandfatherhood after his husband’s daughter Kirsten Kief welcomed a baby girl into the family via adoption. The family milestone came during a memorable year for the entertainer, who broke Elvis Presley’s long-standing record for the most performances at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino.
The award-winning singer shared that his late stepfather opened his eyes to the positive side of family and music via his extensive record collection. Manilow has also helped raise Kirsten from the tender age of two, remaining a significant part of her life.
Manilow and his husband cum longtime manager Garry Kief have been together for more than 4 decades. They discreetly tied the knot in 2014 during an intimate ceremony attended by around 30 guests.
Entertainment
10 Greatest Book Masterpieces of the 20th Century
Literature saw a drastic transformation—or rather, several—throughout the 20th century. From the experimental nature of modernism, to the surge of global voices that came from postcolonial literature, to the post-Tolkien fantasy revolution, to the transformation of science fiction into a genre as respectable as any other—well, it’s no mystery why many of the greatest books ever written were published between 1901 and 1999.
Whether it’s a generation-defining Latin American gem like Pedro Páramo, a genre masterpiece like the revolutionary Dune, or a postmodernist masterpiece like Gravity’s Rainbow, the greatest book masterpieces of the 20th century are fascinating to study. These 100 years were perhaps the most radically transformative in literary history, and as such, the best books they produced are all essential reading.
10
‘Pedro Páramo’ (1955)
Studying the history and trajectory of 20th-century literature could never possibly be complete without looking at Latin America’s output during the era. Fittingly, no study of 20th-century Latin American literature could ever possibly be complete without reading Mexican writer Juan Rulfo‘s magnum opus, Pedro Páramo, one of the greatest and most important works of magical realism in the genre’s entire history.
Legendary Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges once called Pedro Páramo one of the greatest texts ever written in any language, and it’s hard to disagree. Though it was originally a critical and commercial failure, Pedro Páramo nowadays stands as a paragon of Latin American literature. Framed with a revolutionary non-linear structure and full of haunting surrealism that makes the book hard to put down, it’s one of the most influential modern literary works not in the English language.
9
‘In Cold Blood’ (1966)
It’s difficult to pinpoint the origins of the non-fiction novel all the way back to a single book, but one thing is certain: the genre saw its boom around the mid-20th century. One of the most important non-fiction novels in history is Truman Capote‘s In Cold Blood, one of the best books of the 1960s, detailing the 1959 Clutter family murders that took place in Holcomb, Kansas.
Widely hailed as the grandfather of the true crime novel, In Cold Blood has aged like fine wine, and some 21st-century critics even call it the first true non-fiction novel. It’s a masterpiece built on surprisingly cinematic and free-flowing prose, without ever sacrificing Capote’s journalistic attention to detail. Exhaustively researched, perfectly paced, and wonderfully complex, it’s a must-read for anyone interested in the true crime genre.
8
‘The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle’ (1994–1995)
Published as a three-volume novel between 1994 and 1995, and later published in English in 1997, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle is almost universally regarded as the best 20th-century book by one of the greatest Japanese authors of all time, Haruki Murakami. Wildly ambitious and beautifully surreal, it’s a thought-provoking exploration of historical trauma and the search for personal identity.
It may be a bit too long, dark, and dense for someone who hasn’t read Murakami before, but that doesn’t detract from the fact that The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle is one of the greatest Japanese novels in history. Bolstered by Murakami’s uniquely dreamlike prose, a fascinating protagonist, and imagery that lends itself perfectly to infinite analysis and multiple re-reads, it’s yet another instance of flawless 20th-century magical realism.
7
‘Dune’ (1965)
Upon release, Frank Herbert‘s Dune was an immediate commercial and critical success. In the years since, praise for it has only kept growing larger, more widespread, and more mainstream. Today, few would be against saying that this is the single most important and influential work of science fiction of the 20th century.
Simply put, Dune is one of the best sci-fi book masterpieces of all time, a hugely ambitious and complex work that has only gotten better with age. It’s a cautionary tale against the dangers of messianic leaders and religious fanaticism, a study of the relationship between politics and religion, and a meditation on the way humans seek to control the environment. Epic in scale yet deeply intimate when it needs to be, Dune is a must-read even for those who typically don’t love science fiction.
6
‘The Great Gatsby’ (1925)
F. Scott Fitzgerald was primarily a short story writer, having written only four novels; and even though he died thinking he was a failure whose works were destined to oblivion, history remembers him among the greatest American writers of the 20th century. Who, if not one of the greats, could have written The Great Gatsby, a remarkably strong contender for the title of “The Great American Novel”?
It’s one of the most powerful tragedy novels of the 20th century, inspired by a romance Fitzgerald had with socialite Ginevra King in his youth. The book was a commercial disappointment, but in the years following, it became the subject of deep academic and critical re-evaluation. Today, it’s one of the most beloved classics of its time, a deeply nuanced and thought-provoking critique of the dark underbelly of the American Dream.
5
‘The Catcher in the Rye’ (1951)
Another book that some would dare to refer to as the greatest American novel of all time, J. D. Salinger‘s The Catcher in the Rye is at the very least a remarkable masterpiece. Partially serialized between 1945 and 1946, until finally being novelized in 1951, it has aged as one of the most important coming-of-age novels written in the modern era.
The book has become an icon for teenage angst and rebellion, thanks to its profound exploration of themes of loss, innocence, and identity.
Calling it one of the best books of the 1950s is quite the understatement. Originally written for adults, the book has since become an icon for teenage angst and rebellion, thanks to its profound exploration of themes of loss, innocence, and identity. Imbued with a raw emotional honesty and highly accessible, colloquial prose that feels refreshing even today, it’s a classic that’s incredibly easy—and crucial—to read.
4
‘The Lord of the Rings’ (1954–1955)
Published in three volumes, J. R. R. Tolkien‘s The Lord of the Rings was originally envisioned as a simple sequel to Tolkien’s iconic children’s novel The Hobbit, but gradually started transforming into something far larger and more epic. Today, it’s widely remembered as the greatest work of fantasy literature of the 20th century, a true turning point for the entire genre.
Since 1955, many books have tried to be “the next Lord of the Rings,” yet not even the best ones have ever managed to match the level of quality of Tolkien’s writing. It really is one of the greatest genre novels ever written and one of the best fantasy book masterpieces, boosted by Tolkien’s gorgeously detailed use of language and the worldbuilding’s tremendous depth and density. One can’t fully understand the history of 20th-century literature without reading The Lord of the Rings.
3
‘Gravity’s Rainbow’ (1973)
Thomas Pynchon is far and away one of the most important postmodern writers ever, an author whose deep imagination and perfectly effective sense of humor helped him reshape modern literature. In order to understand Pynchon’s importance to 20th-century literature, one needn’t go any further than the book typically recognized as his very best: Gravity’s Rainbow, one of the heaviest sci-fi books ever written.
It’s a sprawling monster of a book whose cultural impact and deep influence can still be seen today. Gravity’s Rainbow is a work of true genius full of complex ideas and the sort of aesthetic experiments that you can expect from any Pynchon book, a techno-paranoid gem whose analysis of the dehumanizing effects of technology has tragically aged like fine wine. It’s not an easy read, but it’s an essential one nonetheless.
2
‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ (1967)
It’s a very nuanced and subjective debate, but if any book has a claim to the title of “most important work of Spanish-language literature since Cervantes‘ Don Quixote,” it’s Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez‘s One Hundred Years of Solitude. Heavily inspired by Pedro Páramo, this is arguably the greatest work of magical realism in the history of literature.
One Hundred Years of Solitude proved that the major axis of world literature in the mid-20th century was Latin America, and it’s just as profoundly engrossing a read today as it was almost 60 years ago. Masterfully structured, gorgeously atmospheric, and profoundly human in ways that very few books have ever been, it’s a masterpiece that absolutely everyone should read at least once in their lives, regardless of what their native language is.
1
‘Ulysses’ (1922)
James Joyce‘s Ulysses is to the modernist literature of the first half of the 20th century what Gravity’s Rainbow is to the postmodernist literature of the century’s latter half. It’s a modern take on Homer‘s The Odyssey, modeled after both the structure and story of the foundational epic poem. But where many classics can be a bit of a chore to get through nowadays, the uniquely experimental style with which Joyce approached Ulysses makes it a thoroughly enjoyable read to this day.
There’s not much of a plot here. Instead, Joyce structures the story with the free-flowing pace of a stream of consciousness, exploring an entirely ordinary day in Dublin with entirely extraordinary detail and vibrancy. Joyce toys around with the English language in ways that you just can’t get in any other book ever written, and that alone is more than enough to make Ulysses an essential read. It’s hard to point to a single novel and call it the best of the 20th century, but if any one deserves it, it’s this one.
Entertainment
Terrence Howard Wrangles Critter In Dramatic Video & Fans React
Terrence Howard shared a series of vacation videos on Instagram on Tuesday, August 4, and his hilarious attempts to wrangle a centipede have the internet in stitches. Not only that, witty fan reactions ensued.
RELATED: Druski Has The Internet Crackin’ Up After Sharing Hilarious Auditions For Coulda Been Records (VIDEO)
Terrence Howard Shares Hilarious Vacation Video
Howard shared footage from his vacation with his ex-wife and current partner, Mira Pak, on Instagram. As a panicked Pak recorded between shrieks and laughter, Howard chased a centipede around the hotel room trying to capture it in a glass jar.
The first video is captioned, “Part 1… trying to catch and release a centipede #makewayforlife.”
“I can handle it as long as he don’t move,” said the actor.
He then attempted to capture the critter inside a mason jar, to no avail. In a second video, as he tried to get the centipede in a jar, it started wiggling ferociously.
“Gimme a spatula,” Howard shouted. “Gimme a spatula and stop standing around! Oh…. he’s doin’ the jiggle wiggle.”
“Honey, I’m sorry, Here! Here,” said Pak as she handed him a spatula.
The next video shows Howard chasing the centipede with the glass jar and spatula, but the centipede was too fast for the actor.
“Get it into the jar!…. Honey, pleaaaase,” begged Pak.
In the fourth video, Howard finally captured the centipede in a jar with a pair of salad tongs, much to Park’s delight.
“Put the lid on it,” shouted Park. “Put the lid!”
Fan Reactions Ensued
Fans reacted to the video after it was shared on TSR’s Instagram page, and folks were hollerin’.
User @faithdonna.z wrote, “The centipede moved like it had groceries to unpack.😭🤣💀.”
User @bundleofbunnie, “Yall be trynna be nice to the bugs maaaaaane, STEP ON ITTTT!🤣😭💯.”
@trinidadrellbackup joked, “Me trynna flip the bacon before one side burns 😂😂.”
User @tef_lon_don wrote, “Lmaooo she would’ve had to get on out of the room w all that HONEY! ish like girl hush in this intense moment I’m tryna concentrate 😂😂.”
@itsebonyy___ agreed. “She would’ve pissed me off…all that hootin and hollerin😒😂😂.”
@ohkayshay added, “If she ‘Honey’ him one more time 😂.”
User @imjustme_tae joked, “Girl hush honey is trying 😩.”
@jalyeigh added, “Girl hushhhhh and let the man focus on getting that dinosaur up!”
User @loveesme__ replied, “A Jamaican would get the machete😂😂.”
Pak Begged Hoard Not To Release The Centipede Outside
The fourth video Howard shared also features Pak begging him not to release the critter outside for fear it would crawl back in.
“Please don’t! It’ll come back into the house,” she exclaimed.
Howard demanded that Pak “open the d*mn door” in a fifth video, to which she complied.
He captioned the fourth video, “Part 4… we checked out early the next day.”
RELATED: The Big 3! Rihanna & A$AP Rocky Celebrate Riot’s Birthday With A Spider-Man Party (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Prison Release Pushed Back Amid Fight
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ prison release date has changed again.
Just a week after Us reported that the disgraced music mogul was now scheduled to be released from federal prison on January 24, 2028, the Federal Bureau of Prisons pushed back the star’s release date by just under a month.
Online records viewed by Us on Wednesday, August 5, show that Diddy, 56, is now eligible for release on February 20, 2028.
Diddy was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison in October 2025 after being found guilty on two charges of transportation to engage in prostitution. He is serving his sentence at FCI Fort Dix in New Jersey.
The Bad Boy Records founder was initially scheduled to be released on June 4, 2028, however, that date has changed multiple times. In March, Us reported that the star’s release was moved up to April 25, 2028. Two months later, it changed to February 23, 2028. As of July 29, he was due to be released in January 2028.
“At this point we do not have the necessary information to respond with any clarity,” a spokesperson for Diddy told Us last week.
The recent changes to Diddy’s release date come after multiple reports that the rapper was involved in an alleged altercation with another inmate at FCI Fort Dix. The fight was reportedly broken up by prison staff, and Diddy was apparently moved to solitary confinement.
Diddy’s reps did not respond to Us’ comment on the alleged fight at the time. FCI Fort Dix declined to confirm whether Diddy was moved to solitary confinement.
“We are not at liberty to disclose or provide internal information pertaining to any inmate in our custody,” a spokesperson for the facility told TMZ in a statement on July 24. “Such information would not be available for the public domain.”
Diddy was initially arrested on charges including sex trafficking in September 2024. The case went to trial in May 2025 and concluded in July 2025. He was convicted on two prostitution-related charges, however, he was cleared of two counts of trafficking and one count of racketeering conspiracy. The star has maintained his innocence and denied all of the charges against him.
During his October sentencing, Judge Arun Subramanian also ordered Diddy to pay a $500,000 fine and complete five years of supervised release when he leaves prison.
During the sentencing hearing, Subramanian encouraged Diddy to “make the most” of his “second chance,” telling the star, “There’s a true path to redemption here. What went wrong and what can be made right.”
Entertainment
These 13 Walmart Deals Are Too Good to Stay in Stock for Long
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
Refreshing your wardrobe doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget. Walmart just refreshed its deals section with more than 1,000 new discounts on everything from comfy loungewear to rich mom-looking dresses. To save you the scrolling, we sifted through the retailer’s latest deals to find the standout pieces that look more expensive than they really are.
Whether you’re aiming to transition your wardrobe for fall, pick up vacation-ready staples or snag timeless essentials you’ll wear on repeat, these fashion-forward finds deliver style without the splurge. Score discounts on Nautica, Skechers, Jessica Simpson and more, starting at $7. Ahead, shop the 13 hidden gems we’re predicting won’t stay in stock for long!
13 Newly Launched Deals Selling Out on Walmart
1. Under-$20 Denim: These light-wash mid-rise jeans feature a roomy barrel leg and a cropped cut that makes them easy to show off everything from sneakers to ankle boots — was $35, now $16!
2. Puff-Sleeve Blouse: Designed with ruffles and pleats, this yoke blouse is serving cottagecore charm in the chicest way — was $11, now $7!
3. Bomber Jacket: A bomber jacket, like this collared one, is a closet staple you’ll reach for season after season — was $15, now $10!
4. Denim Midi: With its flattering V-neckline, button-front design and midi silhouette, this versatile dress is a one-and-done piece you won’t even have to think about styling — was $38, now $23!
5. Perfect Loungewear: Whether you’re spending the day at home or running errands, this ribbed-knit lounge set is up for the task. The two-piece pick will make you feel extra comfy — was $19, now $14!
6. Tie-Front Cardigan: If you ask Us, this cardigan is the perfect layering piece, thanks to the light fabric, delicate pointelle details and feminine tie-front closure — was $30, now $14!
7. Luxe Look: These cropped white pants feature crisp pleats and a tailored fit that can easily be dressed up with heels or kept casual with sneakers and a simple tee — was $20, now $9!
8. Trendy Find: Classic stripes and a figure-skimming knit fit make this midi dress an easy pick for everything from the office to weekend brunch — was $25, now $20!
9. Slip-Resistant Sneakers: Designed for all-day comfort, these slip-resistant Skechers sneakers feature a cushioned fit and sporty silhouette that make them a practical choice for days spent on your feet — was $62, now $49!
10. Tiered Midi: This sleeveless midi dress is an easy throw-on-and-go style you’ll reach for on warm days. It handles brunches, beach days and errands like a champ — was $33, now $25!
11. Two-in-One: Designed with a supportive built-in liner and convenient side pockets, these lightweight shorts are perfect for morning runs and gym sessions — was $28, now $17!
12. Everyday Backpack: With multiple pockets and a roomy interior, this go-anywhere bag is great for commuting, travel or weekend outings — was $28, now $20!
13. Cozy Cardigan: Made from plush sherpa fleece with an oversized fit, this cozy cardigan can be worn for layering over pajamas or loungewear — was $25, now $19!
Entertainment
Porsha Williams Reflects on Her 3-Year ‘RHOA’ Absence
Porsha Williams is among the principal cast of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.” While discussing the upcoming limited series, she opened up about her time away from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” and how she knew it was time to return. This comes ahead of the “RHOA” season 17 reunion.
Regarding “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th,” the main cast also includes Vicki Gunvalson, Kyle Richards, Teresa Giudice, Luann de Lesseps, Gizelle Bryant, and Lisa Barlow. It premieres on August 9, following part of the “RHOA” reunion.

The seven main ladies from “Roaring 20th” sat down with The Hollywood Reporter for an almost hour-long discussion. During the interview, they discussed everything from the legacy of their respective shows to personal struggles they’ve shared with fans over the years.
During a portion of the interview, Williams said, “At first, every year I wanted to leave the show. I was like, ‘What am I doing? This is not it.” She then stated that later in her run on the show, “something happened” and she learned she could use her platform for good.
According to her, “Purpose started arriving after I had been through so much… You realize, I can use this platform for the better for women.”
The Mom Of One Left The Show For Three Years

Williams continued discussing her legacy as a housewife by mentioning the multi-year break she took from the series. She said, “I think I’m probably one of the only ones who took a break. I was gone for three years.” Regarding why she returned, Williams shared that “Ultimate Girls Trip: Thailand” was one reason.
The 45-year-old explained, “It was similar to this experience for me. Now, the break was great, but during that break and I came back, and I did ‘Ultimate Girls Trip,’ I remember telling my manager, and I told some of the executives, I said, ‘I miss the sisterhood.’”
She went on to say that “no one” can relate to the experience of being a housewife. According to her, “No one knows what we know. No one has felt what we have been through. Specifically, she was referring to the fact that their personal experiences are watched by millions of people.
Williams continued, “I remember when I survived this, where I wanted to be under a rock, and I was in front of a camera.” She then said, “So, when I experienced that after those three years, I said, ‘I’m ready to come back.’”
Porsha Williams Announced Her Exit In 2021
Williams joined “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” in 2012 for its 5th season. She quickly became a fan favorite in the franchise, which meant many were shocked when she announced she was leaving the show in 2021. The “Flatline” singer shared the news on her official Instagram in September of that year.
She said at the time, “After ten life-changing, gratifying, incredible years, it is finally time to begin my next chapter. Next season, I will not be returning to the Real Housewives of Atlanta franchise. This was a difficult decision not only to make but also to come to terms with. It’s one I have put a lot of thought into, and because of that, I know it’s the right one.”
Then, years later in February 2024, Williams shared that she would be returning to the show for its 16th season, which served as a soft reboot. According to Benijay Americas, she said in a statement, “I’m incredibly thankful for the vision and faith NBCUniversal has put in me to be a larger part of their family. I’m looking forward to being back on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ and showing the world my new world!”
Bravo Released A First Look At ‘Roaring 20th’

Bravo has released multiple clips from “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.” The first was the official trailer, which the network unveiled in July, offering an overview of what fans can expect, along with iconic moments from the past 20 years of “Real Housewives.”
Additionally, in August, Bravo shared the first several minutes of the premiere episode. In it, former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star NeNe Leakes could be seen arriving at Williams’ home as she packs for “Girls Trip.” Notably, this will serve as Leakes’ first appearance on Bravo since leaving the show in 2020.
The ‘RHOA’ Season 17 Reunion Will Have 3 Parts

Season 17 of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” premiered in April 2026, with the finale airing on August 2. Now, ahead of the reunion, Bravo has released the trailer, with Andy Cohen confirming in the clip that, as is usually the case, there will be three parts.
In the trailer, not only does Williams face off against her former best friend Shamea Morton, but she and K. Michelle also discuss their issues, as they’re both sitting opposite Cohen. It was also confirmed that there will be a pregnancy reveal at the reunion.
Entertainment
43 Best TV Shows on BritBox Right Now (August 2026): ‘Prey’ and More
What would you do for fame, fortune or freedom? Those are the questions BritBox’s new shows are asking in August.
The streamer specializes in programming the best Britain has to offer, and that’s exactly what you’ll find on Watch With Us’ best BritBox shows list.
At the top is the new thriller Prey, which chronicles an ex-policeman’s daring escape from jail to clear his name.
Also worth watching is Vanity Fair, a 2018 adaptation of the classic novel starring House of the Dragon‘s Olivia Cooke as one of literature’s most memorable heroines, Becky Sharp.
Entertainment
Megan Moroney’s Childhood Dream Comes True With New Collab
Megan Moroney is turning her signature country-pop aesthetic into an American Girl collection, and an 18-inch doll inspired by the singer is coming next. The country star has partnered with American Girl and Mattel on a concert-themed lineup featuring sparkly stage fashions, fan accessories and an iridescent guitar modeled after the one Moroney uses on tour.
The collection launches August 5 as Moroney embarks on her first-ever arena tour. Her American Girl doll will follow during the holiday season, arriving exclusively through Target later this year. For Moroney, who grew up staging imaginary performances with her own American Girl doll, the partnership represents a childhood dream coming full circle.

Moroney revealed that one of her most memorable childhood Christmas gifts was her first American Girl doll, which she still owns today. “I’ve been an American Girl fan for as long as I can remember. One of my favorite Christmas gifts was getting my first American Girl doll, and I still have her in the box at my parents’ house,” Moroney said via a press release sent to The Blast.
Long before she began performing in arenas, the singer used her dolls to create the same types of shows and stories that inspired the new collection. “As a kid, dolls let your imagination run wild…I had mine doing cheerleading stunts and performing concerts, while I also probably cared a little too much about her outfits,” she continued.
That childhood attention to fashion can now be seen throughout the collaboration, which draws directly from Moroney’s sparkling stage wardrobe and personal style. “Getting to create a collection inspired by my own style feels like such a full-circle moment, and it’s something I’ll always cherish,” the country music star said. “I hope fans have just as much fun making the collection their own, expressing themselves, and letting their imaginations run wild.”
American Girl Collection Recreates Her Concert Style

The American Girl x Megan Moroney collection features five separate products designed for the brand’s 18-inch dolls. Each outfit transforms one of the singer’s recognizable performance looks into a doll-sized ensemble. The bright pink sequined outfit reflects Moroney’s love of sparkles and the glamorous fashion associated with her live shows. Meanwhile, the Fan Fashion Outfit offers a more casual concert look, combining denim with sparkling details inspired by the way Moroney elevates everyday clothing.
Fans can complete the experience through the Concert-Ready Accessories and VIP Accessories sets. The products are intended to recreate the excitement of attending a Moroney concert, from planning an outfit to imagining a front-row or all-access experience.
All four fashion and accessory sets will be available through AmericanGirl.com and American Girl retail locations nationwide beginning August 5.
Megan Moroney’s Iridescent Guitar Inspires New Playset

The collection also transforms two important pieces of Moroney’s touring setup into a doll playset. The American Girl x Megan Moroney Guitar & Mic Stand set is modeled after the iridescent guitar and microphone stand the country singer uses during her performances. The showpiece allows fans to imagine their dolls taking center stage and staging their own country-pop concerts.
Each product was designed around the themes of creativity, confidence and self-expression, giving children the freedom to re-create Moroney’s performances or invent entirely new stories.
By timing the launch to her first arena tour, American Girl is connecting Moroney’s career milestone with the imaginative concerts she once created with her dolls as a child.
American Girl Praises The Country Star’s ‘Authenticity’

Pamela Velarde, head of American Girl at Mattel, said Moroney’s creativity and relationship with her young audience made her a natural fit for the brand.
“At American Girl, we’re always looking for new ways to encourage girls to dream big and express who they are through play and fashion,” Velarde said, per a press release sent to The Blast. “Megan’s authenticity, creativity, talent and unmistakable sense of style have made her a role model for so many young fans, and we’re thrilled to partner with her on a collection that encourages girls to celebrate what makes them unique.”
The collaboration allows American Girl to enter Moroney’s “Cloud 9” world while keeping the brand’s focus on imaginative play. Rather than limiting the collection to replicas of her costumes, the products encourage children to place themselves in different parts of the concert experience, as performers, fans, or VIP guests.
Megan Moroney American Girl Doll Is Coming To Target

Although the initial August launch centers on clothing, instruments, and accessories, the collaboration will expand with a dedicated Megan Moroney doll during the holiday shopping season.
The new 18-inch American Girl x Megan Moroney doll will be released exclusively through Target and is scheduled to become available on Target.com on November 22 before arriving in Target stores in early December.
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