When it comes to fashion tricks designed to make you feel confident, we’re usually the first in the know. But we can admit that rich moms over 40 beat Us to balloon-sleeve blouses. They’re flattering by design, concealing your upper arms and back while making your middle appear smaller. Seriously, this blouse style is an actual life hack.

With loose fabric around the arms and tapering at the wrists, balloon-sleeve tops create intentional volume. The result is a flattering shape, balanced silhouette and an overall boutique-like aesthetic. These stylish finds are popular for a reason — and since they start at only $7, they’re bound to sell out!

17 Balloon-Sleeve Blouses, Starting at $7

1. Our Favorite: Not only is this printed blouse flattering, but it also makes you look rich. We’re convinced it’s Zimmermann.

2. Polka Dot Princess: Nail the 2026 trend with this oversized yet ultra-polished number that hangs in all the right places.

3. Silky Satin: This shiny satin blouse embodies quiet luxury in outfit form. It features a solid color, subtle sheen and gentle pleats.

4. Work of Art: Instantly elevate jeans with this expensive-looking button-up that’s smocked at the wrists and flowy everywhere else.

5. European Vibes: Channel Santorini energy in this billowy paisley wonder that belongs in a coastal boutique.

Related: These Are the Trending Denim Styles Cool Girls Are Wearing in 2026

Even as fashion writers, it’s hard keeping up with the ever-changing denim trends. They can be downright confusing, even to Us! When in doubt, we turn to celebrities, rich moms and fashionistas on the streets of New York and Los Angeles. And this year, they’re all in agreement on these denim styles. If you ask […]

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6. Mock-Neck Maven: Lengthening and luxe, this mock-neck top makes you look like a million bucks when you wear it to brunch and the boardroom.

7. Boho Babe: Lace, dots, ruffles! This boho long-sleeve shirt could totally be Free People. The only difference is the price.

8. Cold Shoulder: This drapey blouse nods to 2016 with its off-the-shoulder style. Even better, it effortlessly flatters your collarbone.

9. Simple Stunner: Everyone needs a staple blouse, and this solid-color pick is yours. The frills along the neckline add just enough fuss.

10. Elegant Embroidery: People will think you dropped hundreds on this embroidered top, and with such an elegant style, so will you.

11. Pretty Picnic: In case you missed it, gingham print is having a major moment, and this trendy find rocks it.

12. Royal-Approved: Even Kate Middleton wears this classy tie-neck blouse look. It should cost much more than $11.

13. CEO Alert: Refresh your workwear wardrobe with this wrap-style blouse that tucks beautifully into trousers and skirts alike.

14. Center of Attention: If you love fun colors, you’ll adore this soft, vibrant button-up. Shoppers describe it as comfortable and elegant.

15. Capsule Piece: Look no further for a classic chiffon blouse that never goes out of style. With 20 colors to choose from, you’ll want at least two.

16. Pleats, Please: Office envy status is guaranteed when you wear this dressy pleated-sleeve top to work.

17. Cute and Crisp: The cotton material makes this crisp blouse breathable all year, and the elbow-length sleeves keep it fashionable.

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome 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.

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Related: Before You Splurge on Free People, See These 17 Boho-Chic Staples on Amazon

Like you, we’re also obsessed with Free People’s boho-chic aesthetic. In fact, we love the style so much, we can occasionally justify a $200 dress . . . even if we get grief from our significant other. Since discovering Amazon’s Free People-like selection, however, we’re not even tempted by the label. These 17 chic summery […]

Just three years after the allegedly last Insidious film, Insidious: The Red Door, was released, the 16-year-old franchise is back with a new entry: Insidious: Out of the Further.

The Lambert family — mom Renai (Rose Byrne), dad Josh (Patrick Wilson) and son Dalton (Ty Simpkins) — are taking a well-earned break this time around. An almost new cast, including Amelia Eve and Nope’s Brandon Perea, is introduced, with one familiar face — Lin Shaye’s Elise Rainier, who, despite dying in the first film, has appeared in every sequel since 2010.

Out of the Further is sure to make a killing (pun intended) at the box office this weekend, but it’s also going to spur interest in the previous installments.

Watch With Us has everything you need to know about where to stream all the Insidious movies, each film’s Rotten Tomatoes score and if they’re worth watching.

Related: 5 Best Horror Sequels of All Time, Ranked: From ‘Halloween 3’ to ‘Evil Dead 2’

This weekend, the sequel to the hit 2021 horror film The Black Phone debuts in theaters, and critics are already calling it a fantastic expansion on the first film. Horror films often end up producing giant franchises, like Friday the 13th, Nightmare on Elm Street and Halloween. Of course, more sequels don’t necessarily mean they are better, and oftentimes, […]

‘Insidious’ (2010) — Peacock

Rotten Tomatoes score: 66 percent

What is it about? After they move into their new home, the Lamberts’ son, Dalton (Simpkins), falls into a coma. They soon discover his soul has been taken to another dimension and they hire spiritual medium Elise Rainier to help get him back.

Is it worth watching? Yes. Insidious isn’t a classic, but the first film has enough cheap thrills going for it to make it work. The film was made for only $1 million, which makes it even more impressive.

‘Insidious: Chapter 2’ (2013) — Peacock

Rotten Tomatoes score: 38 percent

What is it about? While the Lamberts rejoice in Dalton’s return, they soon discover Josh has brought back a malevolent spirit that seeks to destroy him.

Is it worth watching? Yes. Chapter 2 is scarier, and Wilson is effective as a possessed dad who wants to kill his family.

‘Insidious: Chapter 3’ (2015) — Peacock

Rotten Tomatoes score: 56 percent

What is it about? This prequel chronicles a still-alive Elise Rainier’s previous encounter with The Further. Tasked with saving a teenage girl, the psychic faces off against an evil entity known as the Man Who Can’t Breathe.

Is it worth watching? Yes. Chapter 3 isn’t as scary as Chapter 2, but it’s still sufficiently atmospheric to creep you out. Plus, it’s always nice to see professional character actress Shaye in the spotlight.

‘Insidious: The Last Key’ (2018) — HBO Max

Rotten Tomatoes score: 34 percent

What is it about? The Last Key is another prequel featuring Elise as she battles the “Key Face” demon she unknowingly released when she was a little girl./

Is it worth watching? No. The Last Key offers nothing new or interesting to the franchise, and it’s not even that scary. The only good thing about it is that Shaye got a nice paycheck out of it.

‘Insidious: The Red Door’ (2023) — Hulu, Disney+ and HBO Max

Rotten Tomatoes score: 40 percent

What is it about? The Lamberts are back, and they’re now a broken family. When college freshman Dalton begins to paint his repressed feelings in art class, he unknowingly unlocks demons from The Further. The only one who can help him is dad Josh, who is still recovering from the events in Chapter 2.

Is it worth watching? Yes. The Red Door is the best film in the Insidious franchise, with stylish direction from Wilson and great performances from the cast. It’s also the first film in the series that has a real budget, which allows it to explore The Further in a way previous entries couldn’t.

Related: 20 Best Horror Movies on Netflix (August 2026): ‘Immaculate’ and More

August is still technically summer, but it’s never too early to start spooky season. Not for Netflix, anyway. The streamer just added a slew of new horror movies in August, and Watch With Us has seen the best of them. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Enter your email Please enter a valid […]

‘Insidious: Out of the Further’ (2026) — Now in Theaters

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 58 percent

What is it about? Gemma is a young mother who finds out that when she’s at her childhood home, she can travel into the Further. After a trip to the otherworldly dimension, she discovers she accidentally brought back several demons who want to stay on Earth permanently. Elise Rainier is the only one who can help her send them back to where they came from.

Is it worth watching? Yes, with caveats. Even though it features a mostly new cast, Out of the Further feels like more of the same. But the jump scares are effective, and Amelia Eve is winning as the terrified Gemma.

Khloé Kardashian launched her weekly video podcast “Khloé in Wonder Land” in January 2025. The podcast featured unfiltered conversations with special guests, from famous family members to Hollywood stars. She also shared personal stories and candid reflections on her life, career, and high-profile relationships. Ahead of the show’s season 3 release, she revealed her future career plans and whether or not she would ever return to acting.

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In a candid conversation with The Hollywood Reporter about her future career plans, the “Keeping Up With The Kardashians” reality star revealed that she is excited for this new season “because it’s going to be longer” than the first two.

“I have more room to diversify a bit and see what has stuck with my audience versus what has not,” she said. “The biggest thing that I want to do is branch out a little bit more.”

Although she said that she enjoyed filming the family episodes, and they were a big hit with her audience, she wanted to branch into “different genres.”

Khloé Wants To Explore Conspiracy Theories And ‘Crazy Stuff’

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She said she wants her podcast to focus more on conspiracy theories and other “crazy stuff.” She also wants to try to cover “self-help-type things,” which she thinks will be a big hit with her viewers.

“Other doctors that know how to break down whatever issues are so fascinating. I did something with Dr. Amen, and the amount of people that got all this positive knowledge from him made me feel so good because it’s almost like I was giving back to people that couldn’t afford to see him themselves or didn’t have access to his clinics,” she said. “So that makes me feel good when I’m able to provide real information to people where they have a takeaway.”

“I could go from a celebrity to a doctor to a conspiracy theorist, and I have more room to play,” she continued. “I love how all over the place it is, but that’s why it’s Khloé in Wonder Land because my brain is fascinated by anything and everything.”

Will Khloé Kardashian Make A Return To Acting?

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Although some fans want to see her star in a big project alongside her sister, Kim Kardashian, Khloé said she isn’t looking to return to acting in the near future.

“I get asked to act all the time and to do these roles. I’m never gonna say never, but currently it’s not something I feel like makes my heart happy,” she said. “It’s not like where my passion is with anything.”

Although she wouldn’t name any specific projects, she did say that she gets asked to star in a movie “all the time.”

“People will say someone wants you for a movie, and I’m like, no, no, no. I have taken meetings with people who wanted to do a scripted series with me, and I just don’t know if it’s my thing,” she added.

Khloé Kardashian Might Embrace A Career Behind The Camera

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Khloé currently serves as executive producer for “The Girls,” a reality show that features her famous friends: Nicole Williams English, Olivia Pierson, Khadijah Haqq-McCray, Natalie Halcro, Malika Haqq and Yris Palmer. 

“I really do enjoy it. I think with your friends, it’s a different level of work involved because it does get very personal. But I still really enjoy it,” she said of producing more reality shows with people outside of her famous family.

“I like being a therapist in a way to people,” she continued. “But businessly, I find it really cool, really creative. I like the ins and outs of it all. So yeah, I could see myself doing more.”

All six episodes of her unscripted series, “The Girls: A Khloé Kardashian Project,” are now available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu.

Hayao Miyazaki is the guy, if you’re talking Japanese filmmakers who work within the animation field. There are significant directors who are – or have been – his contemporaries, like Isao Takahata (best known for Grave of the Fireflies, who co-founded Studio Ghibli alongside Miyazaki and producer Toshio Suzuki), and some animators/directors who worked before Miyazaki are also noteworthy. There’s Osamu Tezuka, and though he’s best known for being the godfather of manga, he did also direct some works, and had his manga be adapted on a great many other occasions, too. For what it’s worth, Hayao Miyazaki has also worked as a manga artist, with one of his first movies, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, being an adaptation of his manga series of the same name (the manga technically ending some years after the movie came out).

Alongside Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, there were some other great movies Miyazaki directed in the 20th century, including what was technically his first feature film, 1979’s Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro, and Princess Mononoke (1997), which could well be his masterpiece. No, okay, there are lots of movies that Miyazaki made that can compete for that top spot, since he’s so consistent and, of his 12 feature films, not one comes anywhere remotely close to being bad. He’s made five movies in the 21st century so far, and though he has talked about retiring at multiple points, no retirement plans have ever stuck, so the possibility of there being a 13th Hayao Miyazaki movie technically isn’t impossible. Still, his most recent one is a great swansong, and the oldest movie here is also considered a magnum opus for Miyazaki in the eyes of many. It has to be stressed, again, that ranking Hayao Miyazaki’s 21st-century movies is hard, since the “worst” one is still very good (and then the best ones are outright masterpieces).

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‘Ponyo’ (2008)

Image via Studio Ghibli

Ponyo would make for a nice double feature with My Neighbor Totoro. That one was probably the gentlest movie Miyazaki directed in the 20th century, and then Ponyo’s the calmest and most peaceful he’s done in the 21st century. Put another way, it’s particularly family-friendly, perhaps being the most suitable movie for all ages that Miyazaki has directed, with that target audience maybe reflected by the fact that the protagonist here – a five-year-old boy – is especially young.

The story concerns him finding a creature named Ponyo who looks a bit like a goldfish, but she also yearns to be a human. Further, she has a magical father who doesn’t want her to remain on land, and that’s about as intense as things get, conflict-wise. Ponyo is just a nice and fairly relaxing movie, albeit one that might be a little more enjoyable for younger viewers than those who are teens or older. There’s still a lot to like and appreciate, even if you’re an adult, but debatably a little less than what you might find in some of Hayao Miyazaki’s (even better) films.

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‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ (2004)

Image via Studio Ghibli

Even vaguely having to suggest Ponyo was the “worst” of Miyazaki’s 21st century movies didn’t feel as awful as putting a classic like Howl’s Moving Castle here, as the “second-worst.” Again, it’s still great. It is another excellently made fantasy movie directed by Miyazaki, and contains more by way of imaginative sights and ideas than you’ll find in some directors’ entire filmographies. And that he did this one only a few years after what many consider to be his best and most complete film is all the more impressive.

Though there is a sense of comparing it to that one, and feeling like Howl’s Moving Castle just isn’t as great, and that it’s possibly the closest Miyazaki came to giving the people what they wanted (not selling out, mind you, nor anything even close). If you watched Howl’s Moving Castle before all the other fantasy movies Miyazaki did that preceded it, it’d probably feel more surprising and grand, but still, Miyazaki doing his Miyazaki thing remains worth celebrating regardless. Nothing here rings of being an outright retread in any sense, either, so maybe that’s the main thing. Howl’s Moving Castle remains a vital part of a fantastic filmography, make no mistake, even if there are a few Hayao Miyazaki movies that are even stronger.

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‘The Wind Rises’ (2013)

Image via Toho

The Wind Rises is unusual, as far as Hayao Miyazaki movies go, because there isn’t anything by way of fantastical or sci-fi elements here. You can say that about Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro, though that film is still heightened, and certainly contains strong adventure and comedic elements. The Wind Rises, though, is a more grounded affair, and sees Miyazaki doing a biopic of sorts. Well, it is about Jiro Horikoshi, who really existed, but some liberties are taken with certain parts of the real-life story. Horikoshi was an aeronautical engineer who did design planes that ended up being used by Japan during World War II, though the focus of The Wind Rises isn’t really on the war, with most of it taking place in the 1920s and 1930s (some things regarding the war are touched upon near the end).

It’s hard to recommend in the same way you might be able to recommend other Hayao Miyazaki movies, since The Wind Rises isn’t technically as conventionally fun/entertaining. No one goes on an adventure, and there aren’t any creatures or examples of sci-fi technology that stand in for other things, but the film still proves compelling as a historical drama and a romance film. It’s Miyazaki doing something a bit different and unexpected, and doing it really well. It would’ve made for an interesting and quite fitting swansong, but stands now as his penultimate film… and then might slip back further if Miyazaki’s “current” swansong doesn’t actually end up being his last movie.

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‘The Boy and the Heron’ (2023)

That swansong, for now, is The Boy and the Heron. This one is all about legacy, and a fair bit of it thematically deals with growing old, so reading into it that way, as a particularly personal film on Hayao Miyazaki’s part, does prove enriching. It’s also something that visually seems willing to reference every past Miyazaki film in one way or another, but not really in a greatest hits sort of way, since it’s not literally revisiting old characters or settings directly. You more just feel like Miyazaki is thinking back on all the art he has created, and then reckoning with what might happen in the future, when that work exists but he no longer does.

If that sounds a bit emotionally intense, that’s because The Boy and the Heron kind of is. It’s the darkest Miyazaki film that isn’t Princess Mononoke, and it honestly gives that one a run for its money, in any event. Technically, The Boy and the Heron does astound, looking especially visually grand and creative with all the sights it depicts throughout. The core story, about a young person discovering some sort of strange world, might seem familiar at first, but it’s where The Boy and the Heron goes thematically that ends up making it not just compelling, but genuinely up there as one of the very best Hayao Miyazaki films (time will likely be kind to it, too).

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‘Spirited Away’ (2001)

Image via Toho

So, Spirited Away has the reputation it does for good reason. It’s a perfect entry point into Japanese animation, if you’ve not already watched something kid-friendly that’s a series (the way a lot of people growing up over the last couple of decades seem to have done). Spirited Away is also mostly kid-friendly, for what it’s worth, but not to the extent of My Neighbor Totoro or Ponyo. It’s a bit darker, and definitely creepy at times, even if most of it can probably be handled by younger viewers. It’s about how the world is vast, confusing, and overwhelming, especially when you’re young, which is what the fantasy world here represents (and then some). And it is all animated and executed in a way that proves sometimes frightening and confounding if you’re an older viewer, too.

Maybe that’s the thing about Spirited Away resonating and being suitable for all ages without necessarily feeling like a kid’s movie. Anyone can relate to feeling lost in some way, and having to scrape by with the help of others, or just make the best of a bad situation. The specific bad situation in Spirited Away is getting stuck in an otherworldly realm and having your parents turn into pigs, which isn’t literally relatable, but the emotions are still there, and what the whole journey stands in for is what counts. It’s a bit like not being able to relate to being a witch, like the titular character in Kiki’s Delivery Service, but still being able to relate to having to go somewhere and effectively be an independent adult for the very first time. All these are obvious observations, but Spirited Away is about as discussed as animated movies get, so what else can you do? Oh, you can technically do one other thing: gush about how good it looks. Even by the high standards of Studio Ghibli, Spirited Away really does look absolutely phenomenal.

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Spirited Away

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Release Date

July 20, 2001

Runtime

125 minutes

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• 
• 

  Rumi Hiiragi

  Chihiro (voice)

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In 1968, the Motion Picture Association of America introduced the R rating, replacing the old censorial Hays Code with a system to more effectively let parents know about a film’s mature contents. Over the course of the past 50 years in particular, the R rating has given us several of the greatest science fiction movies ever made. They may not be for kids, but they sure are essential viewing for any sci-fi fan old enough to experience them.

Whether it’s a brutal post-apocalyptic action movie like Mad Max: Fury Road, a space exploration horror thriller like Alien, or any other sort of sci-fi gem that the MPA deemed worthy of an R rating, these truly are some of the greatest movies that the genre has ever produced. They may be bloody, sexually graphic, or simply too dark to be family-friendly; but in any case, they’re absolutely legendary.

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‘Donnie Darko’ (2001)

Image via Newmarket Films

The 1990s were deeply transformative for cult cinema, shifting away from midnight theater screenings while taking advantage of the booming popularity and democratization of home video. It was thanks to masterpieces as iconic as Donnie Darko, one of the biggest sci-fi cult classics of the 21st century, that the midnight circuit of cult cinema regained its popularity throughout the 2000s.

Much like a lot of the best cult classics of all time, Donnie Darko was an all-around failure upon release, only growing in popularity as the years went on. Today, it’s widely recognized as one of those sci-fi movies that get better with every rewatch, a genre-blending masterpiece that’s as thought-provoking as it is delightfully bizarre. In spite of its R rating, it’s one of the most essential coming-of-age teen sci-fi movies ever made.

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‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

After the tragic passing of his close friend and producing partner Byron Kennedy, George Miller distanced himself from the world of Mad Max following the critical disappointment that was Beyond Thunderdome. He came up with ideas for a fourth installment in the late ’90s, but it wouldn’t be until 2015—a whopping 30 years after the release of its predecessor—that Mad Max: Fury Road would finally see the light of day.

In the end, Fury Road turned out to be not only the best Mad Max installment to date, but even one of the best sci-fi action movies in film history. Full of delectably over-the-top action and world-building that only a director as masterful as Miller could have possibly gotten away with, it’s a perfectly-shot, perfectly-edited, and perfectly-paced two-hour chase scene that doesn’t lose any of its punch on rewatch.

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‘The Matrix’ (1999)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Back in 1999, the Wachowskis‘ The Matrix proved downright revolutionary in several senses. Its visual effects broke new ground in the industry, its highly philosophical story and trans allegory showed a new face of what Hollywood sci-fi action was capable of, and its pastiche action scenes inspired by anime and martial arts films changed the face of Hollywood action.

It’s still widely remembered as one of the best sci-fi movies since 1990, a modern classic that has become one of the most essential cornerstones of sci-fi pop culture. Incredibly entertaining, incredibly thought-provoking, and incredibly stunning in terms of its timeless production values, it’s the sort of R-rated sci-fi gem that simply doesn’t get old.

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‘The Terminator’ (1984)

Image via Orion Pictures

Canadian visionary James Cameron is nowadays well-known as a master of pushing boundaries and breaking new ground in Hollywood, but that wasn’t always the case. Rolling into 1984, the only feature under his belt was Piranha II: The Spawning. He needed a genuine hit in order to establish himself as a respectable filmmaker, and The Terminator ended up being exactly what he needed—and then some.

Where can one even begin singing the praises of this essential ’80s classic? It’s one of the most perfectly-plotted sci-fi movies ever made, full of iconic characters and unforgettable moments, and the masterpiece that further propelled Arnold Schwarzenegger into international superstardom. The ’80s are full of foundational sci-fi classics, and this is undoubtedly one of the best and most important.

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‘The Thing’ (1982)

Image via Universal Pictures

If there were a hypothetical Mount Rushmore of horror filmmakers, then John Carpenter would definitely need to be right up there as one of the most important, subversive, and groundbreaking directors that the genre has ever seen. For proof, one needn’t look much further than The Thing, which is far and away one of the scariest sci-fi movies of all time.

Carpenter designed the film to be a more faithful adaptation of John W. Campbell Jr.‘s novella Who Goes There? than 1951’s The Thing from Another World. In the end, he succeeded not only at that, but also in making one of the most powerfully atmospheric, visually striking, and perfectly-acted sci-fi horror movies the big screen has ever seen. Carpenter’s filmography is packed with gems that could very reasonably be considered his magnum opus, and this is one of the strongest contenders.

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‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ (2004)

There’s a very strong argument to be made that Charlie Kaufman is the single greatest screenwriter currently working in Hollywood, and there’s probably no better proof of that than the movie that earned him his first and only Best Screenplay Oscar: Michel Gondry‘s Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, both delivering some of the strongest work of their careers, it’s built on one of the best screenplays in film history.

Its science fiction elements are relatively subtle, and all in perfect service of a poignantly raw, realistic, and emotionally riveting exploration of love, connection, and the power of memories. Kaufman and Gondry flawlessly balance surrealism and character-driven drama in such a way that Eternal Sunshine has aged wonderfully as the greatest R-rated sci-fi film of the 21st century so far.

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‘Blade Runner’ (1982)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Back in 1982, Ridley Scott‘s Blade Runner was nothing short of a catastrophic failure both commercially and critically. Little did anyone know, home video would eventually allow it to become a cult classic of such a tremendous caliber that today, it’s a sci-fi classic that’s just about as mainstream as they come. Today, one could point at it as one of the most massively influential films the genre has ever produced.

Blade Runner is, indeed, one of the best sci-fi movies in film history. Based on the dystopian novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick, it’s one of the most essential and special neo-noir movies of the latter half of the 20th century. Wonderfully directed, written with the utmost patience and intelligence, and bolstered by Vangelis‘ flawless score, it really is one of the greatest Hollywood masterpieces of the ’80s.

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‘Children of Men’ (2006)

Image via Universal Pictures

Alfonso Cuarón has spent his entire career enshrining himself as one of the most incredible filmmakers in both Mexico and Hollywood, but well before he was an Oscar-winning auteur, he made Children of Men. This is one of those sci-fi movies that are definitely not for kids, a dystopian action thriller based on P. D. James‘ 1992 novel of the same title.

It’s one of the sci-fi movies from the past couple of decades that have aged the best, its messages on the importance of compassion, the collapse of human civilization, and the treatment of refugees around the world still being awfully timely in 2026. With its incredible cast, its perfect script, and Cuarón’s airtight and technically masterful direction, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves dystopian sci-fi and bleak action thrillers.

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‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)

Image via Tri-Star Pictures

As fantastic as The Terminator was, it would be an understatement to say that James Cameron one-upped himself in virtually every sense imaginable with the film’s sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day. At the time of its release, this action epic was the single most expensive movie ever made. Every single one of those pennies went exactly where they needed to go, because Terminator 2 still feels like a refreshingly modern action thriller over three decades after its release.

There are only a few R-rated action movies that can be called masterpieces from top to bottom, and it’s pretty much beyond any sort of debate that Terminator 2 is one of them. The way it blends jaw-dropping action sequences with a surprisingly emotional story full of compelling character dynamics has aged like fine wine, resulting in a gem that’s an absolute masterclass in how to make a timeless R-rated sci-fi movie.

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‘Alien’ (1979)

Image via 20th Century Fox

Before Blade Runner flopped, Ridley Scott’s Alien was a major R-rated sci-fi hit. Today, it’s still widely remembered as both one of the greatest sci-fi films and one of the greatest horror films of all time. It altogether revolutionized sci-fi horror, proving that a slow-burning atmosphere and a character-driven approach could make the genre far scarier and more emotionally compelling than it ever had been before.

What’s not to love about Alien if you love either science fiction or horror? It contains some of the strongest visuals either genre has ever seen, some of the most iconic scenes in all of New Hollywood cinema, and one of the best final girls in horror movie history, in the form of Sigourney Weaver‘s legendary Ellen Ripley. It’s pretty much the perfect R-rated sci-fi masterpiece, and a must-see for sci-fi lovers.

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Alien

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Release Date

June 22, 1979

Runtime

117 Minutes

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Writers

Dan O’Bannon, Ronald Shusett

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Quentin Tarantino is one of the greatest filmmakers in Hollywood today, having made a name for himself with modern classics such as Jackie Brown, Kill Bill: Vol. 1, and Django Unchained, and is universally known for his unique style of storytelling, intense action, and intriguing characters. Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Tarantino grew up in Los Angeles and spent most of his time at a nearby movie theater where his love for film and storytelling flourished into an undeniable passion, leading him to write one of his earliest screenplays at the age of fourteen.

In 1992, Tarantino made his feature-length directorial debut with his crime thriller, Reservoir Dogs, but two years later, the young filmmaker’s career officially took off with his 1994 Oscar-winning classic, Pulp Fiction. Over the years, the writer and director has become a defining figure in modern cinema and continues to captivate audiences with his artistic ambition and unpredictability. Tarantino has delivered a collection of notable flicks, including Inglourious Basterds and Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, with many of them being credited as some of the finest films to grace the silver screen in years.

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‘Death Proof’ (2007)

Image via Troublemaker Studios

Kurt Russell stars in the 2007 slasher movie, Death Proof, as a stuntman, Mike, who cruises around picking up young women only to murder them with modified cars that he believes to be “death-proof.” The movie was originally released as part of Robert Rodriguez‘s Grindhouse, which flopped at the box office, leading Tarantino to release Death Proof as a standalone movie. The film’s combination of sharp dialogue, memorable characters, dark humor, and brutal suspense showcases Tarantino’s distinctive filmmaking style, while Russell gives one of his most entertaining performances as a charismatic madman that varies from his traditional good-guy roles.

While Tarantino has cited Death Proof as the worst film he’s ever made, the movie still has several strengths, notably the contrast between its relaxed, conversational first half and its increasingly intense second half, which culminates in a thrilling car chase and a satisfying reversal of power. Tarantino also fills the film with references to 1970s exploitation movies, complete with deliberately rough visual touches that give it an authentic grindhouse feel, effectively immersing audiences in a nostalgic movie-going experience.

9

‘Jackie Brown’ (1997)

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Jackie Brown is a thrilling homage to blaxploitation films based on the 1992 novel Rum Punch, written by Elmore Leonard, and stars Pam Grier as the titular character, a clever flight attendant who, after being caught by the authorities trying to smuggle money for her arms dealer boss (Samuel L. Jackson), decides to play both sides against each other and take off with the money herself. The movie was both a critical and commercial success and earned praise from critics, notably Roger Ebert, who gave the movie four out of four stars, citing it as one of his favorite movies of the year.

Unlike some of Tarantino’s more explosive movies, Jackie Brown is a hangout movie that takes its time, allowing the characters and shifting alliances to develop naturally, which essentially sets it apart from other crime films of its time. The movie earned several award nominations, including an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for Robert Forster and two Golden Globe Award nominations for Grier and Jackson. Its stylish 1970s atmosphere, excellent soundtrack, intricate plot, and emphasis on character over spectacle are just a few qualities that make Jackie Brown one of Tarantino’s most rewarding and underrated films.

8

‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015)

Image via The Weinstein Company

Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight combines his trademark dialogue, dark humor, brutal violence, and morally complex characters with the traditional tropes of the Western genre, delivering a tense mystery that would impress Agatha Christie herself. Set in Wyoming after the Civil War, the movie follows several strangers who all seek shelter from a blizzard in a remote cabin and are forced to confront one another while suspicion and paranoia steadily build around them. The movie features an ensemble cast including Kurt Russell, Samuel L. Jackson, Walton Goggins, and Tim Roth, as well as a haunting musical score composed by the legendary Ennio Morricone.

The gorgeous 70mm cinematography, razor-sharp dialogue, and unpredictable twists give The Hateful Eight the feel of a classic Western mixed with a locked-room murder mystery, making it one of Tarantino’s most ambitious and memorable films. The Hateful Eight received three Oscar nominations, including Best Cinematography and Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer Jason Leigh, and went on to win Best Original Musical Score for Morricone.

7

‘Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood’ (2019)

Leonardo DiCaprio stars in Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood as a former Western TV star, Rick Dalton, who, along with his stunt double and best friend, Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt), tries to find their place in the rapidly changing film industry while the chaos and increasing violence of society begin to creep towards the doorstep of Hollywood’s rising star, Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie). DiCaprio and Pitt give outstanding performances, with their chemistry providing much of the film’s heart and humor, while Robbie shines as the lovely and bubbly Tate.

Tarantino creates an incredibly detailed recreation of late-1960s Hollywood that makes the backdrop and its culture feel like characters themselves, while the alternate-history approach to the Manson murders turns real-world tragedy into a violent, darkly comic fantasy. Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood earned ten Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, and ended up winning for Best Production Design and Best Supporting Actor for Pitt. With its fantastic performances, authentic atmosphere, and unforgettable finale, Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood is easily one of Tarantino’s most entertaining and emotionally satisfying films to date.

6

‘Kill Bill: Volume 2’ (2004)

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Uma Thurman returns in Kill Bill: Vol. 2 as the fierce assassin, Beatrix, A.K.A. the Bride, who, after leaving a slew of bodies behind her, continues to cross off the names on a list she compiled of those who tried to kill her four years ago before her wedding, including her former boss and boyfriend, Bill (David Carradine). While Kill Bill: Vol. 1 focuses heavily on action and revenge, Vol. 2 slows down to explore Beatrix’s relationships, her past, and her complicated connection with Bill, exposing a more humanizing side to the vengeful heroine without downplaying her physicality and purpose.

The dialogue is sharp and memorable, especially during the long conversations between Beatrix and Bill, while the action sequences feel meaningful because they reflect Beatrix’s growth and determination. The movie also blends martial arts, Western, romance, and drama in a way that only a filmmaker of Tarantino’s caliber could pull off with such precision and originality. The emotional depth, combined with Tarantino’s incredible dialogue, fascinating characters, cinematography, and vivid storytelling, makes Kill Bill: Vol. 2 one of his finest films of all time.

5

‘Inglourious Basterds’ (2009)

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Brad Pitt stars in Inglourious Basterds as an Allied officer, Lieutenant Aldo Raine, who, along with a group of American soldiers, join forces with a German actress (Diane Kruger) to take down the leaders of the Third Reich at the premiere of their latest propaganda film, while the owner of the theater, Shosanna Dreyfus (Mélanie Laurent), has a plan of her own hidden up her sleeve. As Raine and everyone else prepare for their plan, they are unaware that the fearsome SS colonel, Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz), has caught on to their elaborate plot, raising the already high stakes to unforeseen heights for everyone involved.

Inglourious Basterds keeps audiences engaged through long, tense conversations, with the opening scene immediately establishing Tarantino’s ability to build suspense with little to no dialogue, cementing it as one of his most distinctive and impressive movies. While the overall cast delivers exceptional performances, Waltz undoubtedly steals the show, conveying his character with charm and intimidation in a way that is both alluring and unsettling. Inglourious Basterds received eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay, and went on to win for Best Supporting Actor for Waltz’s tremendous performance.

4

‘Django Unchained’ (2012)

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Tarantino’s revisionist Western, Django Unchained, is a gripping tribute to the spaghetti Western starring Jamie Foxx as a slave, Django, who, with the help of a German bounty hunter, Dr. King Shutlz (Christoph Waltz), sets out to rescue his wife (Kerry Washington) from a ruthless plantation owner, Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio). The title refers to the 1966 spaghetti Western, Django, starring Franco Nero, who also has a brief cameo in Django Unchained, which provides a bit of comic relief to the extreme intensity of the scene.

The film’s greatest strength is Tarantino’s ability to rawly explore the brutality of slavery while also creating an entertaining and unpredictable revenge story, making it one of the best Westerns in movie history. Foxx gives a tour de force performance as Django, and effectively uses his character’s quiet and reserved demeanor to conceal his wrath until the perfect moment. With its stylish visuals, edgy dialogue, emotional moments, and satisfying action sequences, Django Unchained shows how Tarantino can take a serious subject and turn it into an innovative and unforgettable film. Out of its five Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Django Unchained won for Best Original Screenplay for Tarantino and Best Supporting Actor for Waltz.

3

‘Kill Bill: Volume 1’ (2003)

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Tarantino’s action-packed hit, Kill Bill: Vol. 1, is a love letter to the Kung Fu and Western genres, celebrated for its vibrant visuals, catchy soundtrack, and creative camerawork. Uma Thurman stars as a former assassin, Beatrix, who hunts down her former boss and boyfriend, Bill (David Carradine), and the people responsible for nearly killing her four years ago. Tarantino had originally planned on releasing both volumes together, but with a runtime of over four hours, he was forced to split the project into two separate films while also cutting several vital scenes.

While both movies are genuine masterpieces, Tarantino’s full vision came to fruition with Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair, which is simply a sight to behold and a must-see for any diehard Tarantino fan. What makes Kill Bill: Vol 1 stand out is how Tarantino brilliantly combines elements of martial arts films, samurai movies, and classic revenge stories to create something that feels both familiar and original. Between its brutal action, Thurman’s powerhouse performance, and distinctive style, Kill Bill: Vol. 1 shows Tarantino at his most energetic and visually creative and is hands down one of his all-time best contributions to contemporary cinema.

2

‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992)

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Reservoir Dogs is a vital Tarantino movie that not only led to the director making his first major mark on the big screen but also embodies many of the elements that would go on to define the director’s signature style of filmmaking. The movie follows six criminals, all with pseudonyms, who are hired to carry out a robbery, but when things go horribly wrong, the surviving culprits realize that they were set up by someone in the group, forcing them to smoke the traitor out at any cost.

Reservoir Dogs is a simple but ingenious crime thriller that stands out for its quick-witted dialogue, non-linear storytelling, menacing humor, and intense violence. The characters, played by an ensemble cast of stars including Harvey Keitel, Michael Madsen, and Steve Buscemi, are especially memorable and, despite a lack of backstory and details, are incredibly detailed. While the movie takes off running and quickly comes to a slow pace, the tension constantly rising between the criminals manages to maintain and even build up the intensity, showcasing Tarantino’s uncanny ability to create suspense through conversations and character interactions rather than relying only on action.

1

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

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Tarantino’s legendary neo-noir thriller, Pulp Fiction, is an iconic throwback to hardboiled crime fiction and is often considered to be Tarantino’s best movie, mainly because it perfectly captures everything that makes his filmmaking so unique and distinct. The movie follows a non-linear narrative about several different characters whose storylines eventually become intertwined, making the plot unpredictable and engaging from beginning to end. The movie was a massive success, earning praise for its original story and string of compelling performances by an all-star cast including John Travolta, Bruce Willis, and Uma Thurman, and has since been credited as one of the most significant movies of its era.

Tarantino’s rich dialogue turns ordinary conversations into some of the most memorable scenes in the movie, while moments of over-the-top action and unexpected plot twists effectively keep audiences on their toes at all times. Pulp Fiction received seven Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor, and went on to win Best Original Screenplay for Tarantino, marking his first of two wins in the prestigious category. While Tarantino has delivered an array of notable modern classics, the combination of strong characters, clever storytelling, and unforgettable scenes in Pulp Fiction is what ultimately makes it not only an influential masterpiece but also Tarantino’s greatest cinematic achievement (so far).

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Pulp Fiction

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Release Date

September 10, 1994

Runtime

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154 minutes

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Over halfway through 2026, and it’s clear that this has been an incredibly successful year for horror, with standalone stories like Obsession debuting to commercial and critical success alongside new installments of beloved series like 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Bridging the subsections of this year’s original and franchise horror releases is Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, a sequel to the 2019 horror-thriller Ready or Not, a relatively young franchise in the landscape of horror film series. Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillet returned to helm the second film, with Samara Weaving once again trying to survive a murderous game of hide-and-seek.

Much like its predecessor, Ready or Not 2 is a bloody and entertaining experience that received generally positive reviews and achieved moderate success at the box office upon its release in March 2026. As of this writing, Ready or Not 3 is not currently in the works, but fans needn’t worry: there’s a similar film that’s available to watch for free that can fill the void. You’re Next, an American horror film directed by Adam Winguard, premiered at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival and received a theatrical run in August 2013. While it may have missed out on some “best films of 2013” lists, it made $27 million at the box office against a budget of $1 million and left a positive impression on audiences — for good reason.

‘You’re Next’ is a Must-See Entry in the Slasher Genre

Image credit via Lionsgate.

The story of You’re Next instantly hooks the viewer: A young woman, Erin (Sharni Vinson), is at her boyfriend Cristian’s family reunion (A.J. Bowen) when she finds herself fighting for her life as the group is suddenly attacked by sadistic killers wearing animal masks. As the family is picked off one by one, Erin must turn to her bravery and her survivalist background to get through the night. While the set-up may lean on some tropes from other slasher and horror films, You’re Next quickly distinguishes itself thanks to Winguard’s keen direction and strong performances from the cast.

Before the killers even start picking people off, the tension is already high in the opening scenes. During dinner, family members trade passive-aggressive remarks across the table with dialogue and delivery so authentic that it could double as footage of a real family’s worst Thanksgiving dinner. Coupled with occasional handheld angles and shadowy lighting, it’s almost a relief when the killers do begin their murder spree, delivering violence that feels like it was inevitable with this group of volatile personalities. Even when the first relative is taken out by a crossbow bolt through the window, the dysfunctional family can’t stop verbally sniping at each other, weaving in moments of dark humor that continue throughout the film.

And when the violence does get going, it doesn’t let up. In less than a hundred minutes, nails, hammers, axes, crossbows, and even a blender come into play as Erin, Cristian, and the rest of the family go up against the masked killers. Without spoiling the film, it’s safe to say no one walks away unscathed, and looking away from You’re Next risks missing the moment in which the next relative meets their horrific end. The use of practical special effects, as can be seen on some of the gruesome close-ups, means that every blow, cut, and kill looks painfully real and keeps us watching until the jaw-dropping final shot.

Why Fans of ‘Ready or Not’ Will Love ‘You’re Next’

The elements cited in positive praise for the Ready or Not films can also be applied to You’re Next. Winguard’s film is highly entertaining just like Ready or Not and Ready or Not 2, moving at an equally fast clip with a blend of black comedy and delightfully bloody violence. For the viewers who enjoyed the set-up of Ready or Not, You’re Next has a similar premise, as the protagonist is also stuck in a remote location with the family of her significant other (in this case, her boyfriend, not her new husband). And also like Ready or Not, Erin is a worthy “final girl” as she and Grace both carry their films across the finish line with their inspiring and unbreakable determination to live.

That being said, You’re Next is very much its own film and worthy of praise in its own right. It may be similar to Ready or Not, but it is by no means the same experience. For instance, Grace knows who her assailants are, as her in-laws clearly reveal their murderous intentions to her, and their ritualistic game of hide-and-seek leans into the world of the supernatural. However, in You’re Next, the killers targeting Erin, Cristian, and Cristian’s family are strangers hidden behind masks (or are they?), which lands the story closer to the mystery genre and always firmly grounded in reality.

Furthermore, Erin and Grace are not the same person. Erin is as strong of a “final girl” as Grace, just in a different way. The fun of Ready or Not comes from watching Grace start off unassuming and unprepared, but eventually triumphing against the odds over her more experienced pursuers. Meanwhile, You’re Next provides the satisfaction of an already very capable Erin dominating her attackers with years of survivalist experience and her overall grit, all the while staying cool, calm, and collected. The audience likely recognizes before the killers do that they chose the wrong would-be victim when they put Erin in their crosshairs — and it’s so much fun to watch her prove that she is not, in fact, next.

You’re Next is currently streaming for free on Philo, Plex, Pluto TV, and the Roku Channel.

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Release Date

August 23, 2013

Runtime

94minutes

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After a 10-year gap during which he experimented with long-form streaming and glamorous advertisements, director Nicolas Winding Refn made his long-awaited return to feature filmmaking with Her Private Hell. Starring Sophie Thatcher and Charles Melton, the movie divided critics and audiences and grossed $1 million at the box office. Refn’s last film was the 2016 thriller The Neon Demon, which made around $3.5 million; before that, he directed Only God Forgives, which ended its run with $10 million. All of this is to say that Refn hasn’t replicated, nor shown particular interest in replicating, the box-office success of 2011’s Drive. The movie took a decidedly arthouse approach to mainstream entertainment, and grossed more than $80 million at the box office. Drive remains one of the most acclaimed cult classics of the 2010s, and now, the movie that it was modeled on is available to stream on HBO Max for its fans.

However, the film won’t be around for much longer, as it’s slated to be removed from the platform next month. The movie was originally released in 1967, which makes it nearly 60 years old. It follows a silent assassin who must uncover why he’s being targeted. The classic film was directed by Jean-Pierre Melville, and has influenced everything from Refn’s Drive, the John Wick franchise, and Frederick Forsyth’s bestselling novel The Day of the Jackal, which inspired a 1973 movie and a 2024 series. Defined by its cool aesthetic and Alain Delon’s central performance as the suave assassin, the film also influenced Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver, Luc Besson’s Léon: The Professional, and the Star Wars series The Mandalorian.

Here’s How Long You Have Left to Watch the Influential Assassin Movie on HBO Max

We’re talking, of course, about the landmark neo-noir thriller Le Samouraï. The movie now holds a “Certified Fresh” 92% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, “Le Samouraï makes the most of its spare aesthetic, using stylish — and influential — direction, solid performances, and thick atmosphere to weave an absorbing story.” Quentin Tarantino has spoken about the movie’s impact on fashion, while Variety critic Peter Debruge hailed it as “the coolest film ever made.” You can watch Le Samouraï on HBO Max until September 30, and stay tuned to Collider for more updates.

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Release Date

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October 25, 1967

Runtime

105 Minutes

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Director

Jean-Pierre Melville

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  François Perier

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  Le Commissaire

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  Nathalie Delon

  Jane Lagrange

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