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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5
‘Ponyo’ (2008)
Ponyo floats in the air and looks at Sōsuke in Ponyo.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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4
‘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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3
‘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 would’ve made for an interesting and quite fitting swansong, but stands now as his penultimate film.
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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.
2
‘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.
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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).
1
‘Spirited Away’ (2001)
Chihiro and No-Face on a train during a scene from 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.
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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.
Ariana Grande’s legal efforts to punish those responsible for leaking her unreleased music are gaining momentum.
The singer was granted a motion on Tuesday that will accelerate the subpoena process to identify the individuals behind the alleged illegal leaks.
The lawsuit, initially filed late last month, alleges that 45 unreleased songs were leaked in 2023 alone. It further claims that hundreds of unreleased tracks have been leaked since Grande began her music career in 2011.
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After suffering multiple instances in which her unreleased music and videos were leaked online by hackers, Grande recently scored a small legal victory that could fast-track the process of putting an end to the leaks.
The singer had earlier filed a proposed order for expedited discovery, which would allow her to quickly subpoena information that could help identify those responsible for the leaks.
On Tuesday, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Mark H. Epstein granted the request, waiving the typical waiting period attached to such subpoenas.
“Given that there is no one to whom notice can be given anyway, it makes little sense to wait the 16 days,” the judge ruled. “And on the merits of the motion, good cause is shown.”
As to why Grande’s attorneys made the ex parte application for expedited discovery, they explained that it was intended to prevent further leaks and to quickly identify those responsible.
“There is an increased risk that additional content will be stolen or sold, and that the account, subscriber, and login data needed to identify Defendants will be lost,” the filing stated.
Their argument partly centered on the need to subpoena certain online platforms and third-party services connected to the alleged hacking activity as quickly as possible.
These include social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X, and Discord, as well as payment services such as PayPal and Cash App. The singer is not accusing any of these companies of wrongdoing.
Hundreds Of Ariana Grande Songs Have Allegedly Been Stolen
Grande’s lawsuit over the leak of her unreleased music was filed in July. In it, she claimed that anonymous hackers broke into the personal digital accounts and devices of her photographers and producers using stolen login credentials and phishing schemes.
She noted that in 2023 alone, around 45 songs she had not yet publicly released were stolen or leaked. Over the years since her 2011 debut, that number has reached the hundreds, which she claimed had caused her “irreparable harm.”
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Now, serving the subpoenas could take several weeks or months, and it remains unclear how those served will respond. Regardless, the case is due back in court on January 25 for a status hearing, which will assess the case’s current progress and determine what needs to happen next.
In a 2024 interview, Grande personally expressed how upset she was about her songs and videos being leaked.
“Before I left for Wicked, the few studio sessions that I did — which are all over TikTok, thank you so much. I’ll see you in jail, literally,” Grande noted at the time on the Zach Sang Show.
She also discussed how a song, “Fantasize,” made for a TV show, was leaked on the video app.
“‘Fantasize’ comes out,” she said. “Comes out. Crazy. Was stolen — by thieves, pirates, or illegally. I’ll pay you more to put it away, to get it back.”
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The singer went on to say that there was a positive side to the leak, as she took what people liked about it and incorporated those ideas into Eternal Sunshine.
News of Grande taking a break from the spotlight has been swirling for a while, and the singer sought to address it earlier this month during a performance at Chicago’s United Center.
“It is something that I had decided to plan that I had quietly made a long time ago, and it’s a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place,” the singer said of her proposed break.
“Human beings can need a break sometimes. And also, this can be and will continue to be the greatest experience of my professional and creative life,” she added.
Jennifer Connelly co-stars with Joel Edgerton in Apple TV+’s sci-fi adaptation series, Dark Matter.Image via Apple TV+
Over the last five years, Apple TV has cemented itself as the go-to destination for long-form sci-fi storytelling. Hits such as Severance and Silo have attracted both acclaim and widespread acceptance, earning rare spots for the streamer on the Nielsen streaming charts. Apple TV’s sci-fi streak also includes major titles such as Foundation, a big-budget adaptation of Isaac Asimov‘s seminal saga, and For All Mankind, the show that got the ball rolling back in 2019. More recently, the streamer has debuted the critically acclaimed Star City, and brought back one of its most offbeat sci-fi titles, Sugar. However, there’s one series that is often left off such lists, and it’s all set to return with a second season this week.
The show in question premiered in 2024 and was created by Blake Crouch, based on his own 2016 novel. Blending elements of time travel and multiverse-hopping, the show was headlined by Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly, with Alice Braga and Jimmi Simpson playing supporting characters. The series follows a physicist from Chicago who is sucked into an alternate dimension after being kidnapped by his counterpart. The show received acclaim for its narrative ambition and for the performances of its cast. The first season now holds a “Certified Fresh” 81% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes.
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Collider Exclusive · Sci-Fi Survival Quiz Which Sci-Fi World Would You Survive? The Matrix · Mad Max · Blade Runner · Dune · Star Wars
Five universes. Five completely different ways the future went wrong — or sideways, or up in flames. Only one of them is the world your instincts were built for. Eight questions will figure out which dystopia, galaxy, or desert wasteland you’d actually make it out of alive.
💊The Matrix
🔥Mad Max
🌧️Blade Runner
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🏜️Dune
🚀Star Wars
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01
You sense something is deeply wrong with the world around you. What do you do? The first instinct is often the truest one.
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02
In a world of scarcity, what resource do you guard most fiercely? What we protect reveals what we believe survival actually requires.
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03
What kind of threat keeps you up at night? Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.
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04
How do you deal with authority you don’t trust? Every dystopia has a power structure. Your approach to it determines everything.
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05
Which environment could you actually endure long-term? Survival isn’t just tactical — it’s physical, psychological, and very much about where you are.
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06
Who do you want in your corner when things fall apart? The company you keep is the clearest signal of who you actually are.
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07
Where do you draw the line — if you draw one at all? Every survivor eventually faces a moment that tests what they’re actually made of.
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08
What would actually make survival worth it? Staying alive is one thing. Having a reason to is another.
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Your Fate Has Been Calculated You’d Survive In…
Your answers point to the world your instincts were built for. This is the universe your temperament, your survival instincts, and your particular brand of stubbornness were made for.
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The Resistance, Zion
The Matrix
You took the red pill a long time ago — probably before anyone offered it to you. You’re a systems thinker who can’t help but notice the seams in things.
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You’re drawn to understanding how the system works before figuring out how to break it.
You’d find the Resistance, or it would find you — your instinct for spotting constructed realities is the machines’ worst nightmare.
You function best when you have access to information and the freedom to act on it.
The Matrix built an airtight prison. You’d be the one probing the walls for the door.
The Wasteland
Mad Max
The wasteland doesn’t reward the clever or the well-connected — it rewards those who are hard to kill and harder to break. That’s you.
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You don’t need comfort, community, or a cause larger than the next horizon.
You need a vehicle, a clear threat, and enough fuel to outrun it — and you’re good at all three.
You are unsentimental enough to survive that world, and decent enough — just barely — to be something more than another raider.
In the wasteland, that distinction is everything.
Los Angeles, 2049
Blade Runner
You’d survive here because you know how to exist in moral grey areas without losing yourself completely.
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You read people accurately, keep your circle small, and ask the questions others prefer not to answer.
In a city where humanity is a legal designation rather than a feeling, you hold onto something that keeps you functional.
You’re not a hero. But you’re not lost, either.
In Blade Runner’s world, that distinction is everything.
Arrakis
Dune
Arrakis is the most hostile environment in the known universe — and you are precisely the kind of person it rewards.
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Patience, discipline, and political awareness are your core strengths — and on Arrakis, they’re survival tools.
You understand that the long game matters more than any single victory.
Others come to Dune and are consumed by it. You’d learn its logic and earn its respect.
In time, you wouldn’t just survive Arrakis — you’d begin to reshape it.
A Galaxy Far, Far Away
Star Wars
The galaxy far, far away is vast, loud, and in a constant state of violent political upheaval — and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
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You find meaning in being part of something larger than yourself — a cause, a crew, a rebellion.
You’d gravitate toward the Rebellion, or the fringes, or whatever pocket of the galaxy still believes the Empire’s grip can be broken.
You fight — not because you have to, but because standing aside isn’t something you’re capable of.
In Star Wars, that willingness is what makes all the difference.
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Apple TV’s Overlooked Sci-Fi Series Returns this Week
The site’s consensus notes that the show’s “intriguing ideas are spread a tad thin over its season-long runtime, but fans of foreboding sci-fi will find its residue addictively sticky.” We’re talking, of course, about Dark Matter, which is all set to return with a second season on August 28. The show’s return coincides with the theatrical release of Ridley Scott‘s first sci-fi movie in nearly a decade, The Dog Stars, making this week particularly packed for fans of the genre. Apple TV is currently airing the third season of Silo, headlined by Rebecca Ferguson, which will conclude on September 4. Silo‘s third season has certainly raised the bar for Dark Matter with its 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
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Release Date
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May 7, 2024
Network
Apple TV+
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Directors
Jakob Verbruggen, Alik Sakharov, Roxann Dawson, Logan George
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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!
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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.
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5. European Vibes: Channel Santorini energy in this billowy paisley wonder that belongs in a coastal boutique.
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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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
Patrick Wilson in Insidious.FilmDistrict/courtesy Everett Collection
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.
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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.
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‘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
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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
Ty Simpkins in Insidious: The Red Door.Everett
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.
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.
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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.
4Greg Swales/It’s a 10 Haircare/M / MEGA
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’
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.”
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“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.”
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.
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Khloé Kardashian Might Embrace A Career Behind The Camera
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.
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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10
‘Donnie Darko’ (2001)
Donnie Darko sitting in a movie theaterImage 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 asDonnie 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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9
‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015)
Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron, screams after falling to her knees on sand dunes in Mad Max: Fury Road.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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8
‘The Matrix’ (1999)
Neo, played by Keanu Reeves, freezes flying bullets with his hand outstretched in The Matrix.Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
Back in 1999, the Wachowskis‘ The Matrixproved 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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7
‘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 Terminatorended 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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6
‘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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Collider Exclusive · Sci-Fi Survival Quiz Which Sci-Fi World Would You Survive? The Matrix · Mad Max · Blade Runner · Dune · Star Wars
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Five universes. Five completely different ways the future went wrong — or sideways, or up in flames. Only one of them is the world your instincts were built for. Eight questions will figure out which dystopia, galaxy, or desert wasteland you’d actually make it out of alive.
💊The Matrix
🔥Mad Max
🌧️Blade Runner
🏜️Dune
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🚀Star Wars
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01
You sense something is deeply wrong with the world around you. What do you do? The first instinct is often the truest one.
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02
In a world of scarcity, what resource do you guard most fiercely? What we protect reveals what we believe survival actually requires.
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03
What kind of threat keeps you up at night? Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.
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04
How do you deal with authority you don’t trust? Every dystopia has a power structure. Your approach to it determines everything.
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05
Which environment could you actually endure long-term? Survival isn’t just tactical — it’s physical, psychological, and very much about where you are.
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06
Who do you want in your corner when things fall apart? The company you keep is the clearest signal of who you actually are.
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07
Where do you draw the line — if you draw one at all? Every survivor eventually faces a moment that tests what they’re actually made of.
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08
What would actually make survival worth it? Staying alive is one thing. Having a reason to is another.
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Your Fate Has Been Calculated You’d Survive In…
Your answers point to the world your instincts were built for. This is the universe your temperament, your survival instincts, and your particular brand of stubbornness were made for.
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The Resistance, Zion
The Matrix
You took the red pill a long time ago — probably before anyone offered it to you. You’re a systems thinker who can’t help but notice the seams in things.
You’re drawn to understanding how the system works before figuring out how to break it.
You’d find the Resistance, or it would find you — your instinct for spotting constructed realities is the machines’ worst nightmare.
You function best when you have access to information and the freedom to act on it.
The Matrix built an airtight prison. You’d be the one probing the walls for the door.
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The Wasteland
Mad Max
The wasteland doesn’t reward the clever or the well-connected — it rewards those who are hard to kill and harder to break. That’s you.
You don’t need comfort, community, or a cause larger than the next horizon.
You need a vehicle, a clear threat, and enough fuel to outrun it — and you’re good at all three.
You are unsentimental enough to survive that world, and decent enough — just barely — to be something more than another raider.
In the wasteland, that distinction is everything.
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Los Angeles, 2049
Blade Runner
You’d survive here because you know how to exist in moral grey areas without losing yourself completely.
You read people accurately, keep your circle small, and ask the questions others prefer not to answer.
In a city where humanity is a legal designation rather than a feeling, you hold onto something that keeps you functional.
You’re not a hero. But you’re not lost, either.
In Blade Runner’s world, that distinction is everything.
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Arrakis
Dune
Arrakis is the most hostile environment in the known universe — and you are precisely the kind of person it rewards.
Patience, discipline, and political awareness are your core strengths — and on Arrakis, they’re survival tools.
You understand that the long game matters more than any single victory.
Others come to Dune and are consumed by it. You’d learn its logic and earn its respect.
In time, you wouldn’t just survive Arrakis — you’d begin to reshape it.
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A Galaxy Far, Far Away
Star Wars
The galaxy far, far away is vast, loud, and in a constant state of violent political upheaval — and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
You find meaning in being part of something larger than yourself — a cause, a crew, a rebellion.
You’d gravitate toward the Rebellion, or the fringes, or whatever pocket of the galaxy still believes the Empire’s grip can be broken.
You fight — not because you have to, but because standing aside isn’t something you’re capable of.
In Star Wars, that willingness is what makes all the difference.
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5
‘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.
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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.
4
‘Blade Runner’ (1982)
Harrison Ford sitting at a desk and looking ahead in Blade Runner, 1982.Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
Back in 1982, Ridley Scott‘s Blade Runnerwas 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.
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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.
3
‘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.
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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.
2
‘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.
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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.
1
‘Alien’ (1979)
Image via 20th Century Fox
Before Blade Runner flopped, Ridley Scott’s Alienwas 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.
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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.
After a nearly decade-long detour, director Ridley Scott is returning to the sci-fi genre this week. The filmmaker has spent the last several years making period epics of different scales, from the character-focused drama The Last Duelto the sword-and-sandals sequel Gladiator II. None of them, however, was able to break out at the box office. Scott’s last major hit came in 2015, when The Martian grossed more than $600 million worldwide and scored several Oscar nominations. It was followed by what would become his last sci-fi feature in quite some time: a franchise entry that was released to mixed reviews and an underwhelming box-office response in 2017. The movie in question, Alien: Covenant, has its fans, but its divisive reception forced the long-running franchise into hibernation for several years while Scott moved on to other projects.
He’s now back with a new film in a genre synonymous with him. Scott broke out with the landmark hits Alien and Blade Runner, and over the course of his career, has remained attached to both properties in some fashion. He produced Blade Runner 2049, the critically acclaimed legacy sequel directed by Denis Villeneuve, and directed the two Alien prequels, Alien: Covenant and Prometheus. He also executive-produced the franchise’s latest installment, Alien: Romulus, and the television spin-off Alien: Earth. His new movie doesn’t have the legacy of a decades-old franchise to live up to; it isn’t, however, an original film. Scott’s upcoming sci-fi movie is based on a 2012 post-apocalyptic novel by Peter Heller.
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Collider Exclusive · Sci-Fi Survival Quiz Which Sci-Fi World Would You Survive? The Matrix · Mad Max · Blade Runner · Dune · Star Wars
Advertisement
Five universes. Five completely different ways the future went wrong — or sideways, or up in flames. Only one of them is the world your instincts were built for. Eight questions will figure out which dystopia, galaxy, or desert wasteland you’d actually make it out of alive.
💊The Matrix
🔥Mad Max
🌧️Blade Runner
🏜️Dune
Advertisement
🚀Star Wars
Advertisement
01
You sense something is deeply wrong with the world around you. What do you do? The first instinct is often the truest one.
Advertisement
02
In a world of scarcity, what resource do you guard most fiercely? What we protect reveals what we believe survival actually requires.
Advertisement
03
What kind of threat keeps you up at night? Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.
Advertisement
04
How do you deal with authority you don’t trust? Every dystopia has a power structure. Your approach to it determines everything.
Advertisement
05
Which environment could you actually endure long-term? Survival isn’t just tactical — it’s physical, psychological, and very much about where you are.
Advertisement
06
Who do you want in your corner when things fall apart? The company you keep is the clearest signal of who you actually are.
Advertisement
07
Where do you draw the line — if you draw one at all? Every survivor eventually faces a moment that tests what they’re actually made of.
Advertisement
08
What would actually make survival worth it? Staying alive is one thing. Having a reason to is another.
Advertisement
Your Fate Has Been Calculated You’d Survive In…
Your answers point to the world your instincts were built for. This is the universe your temperament, your survival instincts, and your particular brand of stubbornness were made for.
Advertisement
The Resistance, Zion
The Matrix
You took the red pill a long time ago — probably before anyone offered it to you. You’re a systems thinker who can’t help but notice the seams in things.
You’re drawn to understanding how the system works before figuring out how to break it.
You’d find the Resistance, or it would find you — your instinct for spotting constructed realities is the machines’ worst nightmare.
You function best when you have access to information and the freedom to act on it.
The Matrix built an airtight prison. You’d be the one probing the walls for the door.
Advertisement
The Wasteland
Mad Max
The wasteland doesn’t reward the clever or the well-connected — it rewards those who are hard to kill and harder to break. That’s you.
You don’t need comfort, community, or a cause larger than the next horizon.
You need a vehicle, a clear threat, and enough fuel to outrun it — and you’re good at all three.
You are unsentimental enough to survive that world, and decent enough — just barely — to be something more than another raider.
In the wasteland, that distinction is everything.
Advertisement
Los Angeles, 2049
Blade Runner
You’d survive here because you know how to exist in moral grey areas without losing yourself completely.
You read people accurately, keep your circle small, and ask the questions others prefer not to answer.
In a city where humanity is a legal designation rather than a feeling, you hold onto something that keeps you functional.
You’re not a hero. But you’re not lost, either.
In Blade Runner’s world, that distinction is everything.
Advertisement
Arrakis
Dune
Arrakis is the most hostile environment in the known universe — and you are precisely the kind of person it rewards.
Patience, discipline, and political awareness are your core strengths — and on Arrakis, they’re survival tools.
You understand that the long game matters more than any single victory.
Others come to Dune and are consumed by it. You’d learn its logic and earn its respect.
In time, you wouldn’t just survive Arrakis — you’d begin to reshape it.
Advertisement
A Galaxy Far, Far Away
Star Wars
The galaxy far, far away is vast, loud, and in a constant state of violent political upheaval — and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
You find meaning in being part of something larger than yourself — a cause, a crew, a rebellion.
You’d gravitate toward the Rebellion, or the fringes, or whatever pocket of the galaxy still believes the Empire’s grip can be broken.
You fight — not because you have to, but because standing aside isn’t something you’re capable of.
In Star Wars, that willingness is what makes all the difference.
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Here’s When Ridley Scott’s New Sci-Fi Movie Will Be Released in Theaters
This week, the legendary filmmaker will finally debut The Dog Stars, featuring Jacob Elordiin the lead role. The movie also features Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, Benedict Wong, Allison Janney, and Guy Pearce. The Dog Stars was adapted by Mark L. Smith, the co-writer of the Oscar-winning epic The Revenant. The movie has been produced on a reported budget of $110 million, which is roughly the same budget-range that The Martian and Alien: Covenant occupied as well. Scott is well-known for juggling multiple projects at the same time, and in recent years, has divided his collaborators for orchestrating fast-paced productions using multiple cameras and rapid turnarounds. The Dog Stars will be released theatrically on August 28. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
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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10
‘Death Proof’ (2007)
Rose McGowan and Kurt Russell in Quentin Tarantino’s Death ProofImage 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.
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9
‘Jackie Brown’ (1997)
Pam Grier in Jackie Brown (1997)Image via Miramax Films
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.
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8
‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015)
Samuel L. Jackson and Walton Goggins in western attire firing weapons in The Hateful Eight.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.
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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.
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Collider Exclusive · Oscar Best Picture Quiz Which Oscar Best Picture Is Your Perfect Movie? Parasite · Everything Everywhere · Oppenheimer · Birdman · No Country
Five Oscar Best Picture winners. Five completely different visions of what cinema can be — and what it can do to you. One of them is the film that was made for the way your mind works. Ten questions will figure out which one.
🪜Parasite
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🌀Everything Everywhere
☢️Oppenheimer
🐦Birdman
🪙No Country for Old Men
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01
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What kind of film experience do you actually want? The best movies don’t just entertain — they leave something behind.
02
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Which idea grabs you most in a film? Great films are driven by a central obsession. What’s yours?
03
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How do you like your story told? Form is content. The way a story is shaped changes what it means.
04
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What makes a truly great antagonist? The opposition defines the protagonist. What kind of opposition fascinates you?
05
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What do you want from a film’s ending? The final note is the one that lingers. What do you want it to sound like?
06
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Which setting pulls you in most? Where a film takes place shapes everything — mood, stakes, what’s even possible.
07
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What cinematic craft impresses you most? Every great film has a signature — a technical or artistic element that makes it unmistakable.
08
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What kind of main character do you root for? The protagonist is the lens. Who you choose to follow says something about you.
09
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How do you feel about a film that takes its time? Pace is a choice. Some films sprint; others let tension accumulate slowly, deliberately.
10
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What do you want to feel walking out of the cinema? The best films leave a mark. What kind of mark do you want?
The Academy Has Decided Your Perfect Film Is…
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Your answers have pointed to one Oscar Best Picture winner above all others. This is the film that was made for the way your mind works.
Parasite
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You are drawn to films that operate on multiple levels simultaneously — that begin in one genre and quietly, brilliantly migrate into another. Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a film about class, desire, and the architecture of inequality that manages to be darkly funny, deeply suspenseful, and genuinely shocking across a single extraordinary running time. Your instinct is for cinema that hides its true intentions until the moment it’s ready to reveal them. Parasite is exactly that — a film that rewards close attention and punishes assumptions, right up to its devastating final image.
Everything Everywhere All at Once
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You want it all — and this film gives you all of it. The Daniels’ Everything Everywhere All at Once is one of the most maximalist films ever made: action comedy, multiverse sci-fi, family drama, existential crisis, and a genuinely earned emotional core that sneaks up on you amid the chaos. You are someone who responds to ambition, who doesn’t want cinema to choose between being entertaining and being meaningful. This film refuses that choice entirely. It is overwhelming by design, and its overwhelming nature is precisely the point — because the feeling of being crushed by infinite possibility is exactly what it’s about.
Oppenheimer
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You are drawn to cinema on a grand scale — films that understand history not as a backdrop but as a force, and that place their characters inside that force and watch what happens. Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is a film about the terrifying gap between what we can do and what we should do, told with the full weight of one of the most consequential moments in human history behind it. You want your films to feel important without feeling self-important — to earn their ambition through sheer craft and the gravity of their subject. Oppenheimer does exactly that. It is enormous, complicated, and refuses easy comfort.
Birdman
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You are drawn to films that foreground their own construction — that make the how of the filmmaking part of the what it’s about. Alejandro González Iñárritu’s Birdman, shot to appear as a single continuous take, is cinema examining itself through the cracked mirror of a fading actor’s ego. You respond to formal daring, to the feeling that a film is doing something that probably shouldn’t be possible. Michael Keaton’s performance and Emmanuel Lubezki’s restless camera create something genuinely unlike anything else — a film that is simultaneously about creativity, relevance, self-destruction, and the impossibility of ever truly knowing if your work means anything at all.
No Country for Old Men
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You are drawn to cinema that trusts silence, that refuses to explain itself, and that treats dread as a form of meaning. The Coen Brothers’ No Country for Old Men is a film about the arrival of a new kind of evil — implacable, arbitrary, and utterly indifferent to the moral frameworks we use to make sense of the world. It is one of the most formally controlled films ever made, and its controlled restraint is what makes it so terrifying. You want your films to haunt you, not comfort you. You are not interested in resolution if resolution would be dishonest. No Country for Old Men is honest in a way that most cinema never dares to be.
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6
‘Kill Bill: Volume 2’ (2004)
Uma Thurman in Kill Bill Vol. 2Image via Miramax Films
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.
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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.
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‘Inglourious Basterds’ (2009)
Christoph Waltz in Inglourious BasterdsImage via The Weinstein Company
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.
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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.
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‘Django Unchained’ (2012)
Django lights a cigarette and stands among the ruins of the Candyland mansion in Django Unchained.
Image via The Weinstein Company
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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.
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‘Kill Bill: Volume 1’ (2003)
Uma Thurman in Kill Bill: Volume 1Image via Miramax Films
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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.
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‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992)
The cast of ‘Reservoir Dogs’ wearing black suits and walking down the street.Image via Miramax Films
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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, MichaelMadsen, andSteve 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.
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‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)
Uma Thurman as Mia Wallace wearing a white top smoking a cigarette in ‘Pulp Fiction’Image via Miramax Films
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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).
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.
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‘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.
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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.
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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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