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35 Movies Like ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ For Even More Steamy Drama
The Fifty Shades series, beginning with Fifty Shades of Grey, was one of the most widely mocked of the 2010s, consisting of three films released between 2015 and 2018, based on three books all published in 2011 and 2012. The novels were considered guilty pleasures by some readers and bafflingly awful by others, though it could well have been the case of there being no such thing as bad publicity, given the notoriety got people talking.
As such, a trashy trilogy of erotic novels became a cultural phenomenon, and then the movie adaptations proved similarly successful (at least when it comes to the box office; neither the book nor the film series did well critically). Whether they’d like to admit it or not, some people are undeniably interested in finding other movies like Fifty Shades of Grey. Movies like the Fifty Shades trilogy are likely to provide more silly romantic drama and thrills, though there are also quality movies based around erotic/sexual themes that more or less show the right way for such things to be handled in film. For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey, or anyone wanting comparable films (because of similar themes, smuttiness, or to scratch a so-bad-it’s-good itch), the following movies may well be worth cautiously recommending.
35
‘In the Realm of the Senses’ (1976)
You know you’re doing something right as a provocative/challenging filmmaker if you direct something in 1976 and, nearly 50 years later, it’s still quite shocking, not to mention worthy of an NC-17 rating. This is the case for In the Realm of the Senses, which could be called an erotic drama in the sense that sex plays a big part in the narrative, but as for whether it’s titillating… well…
In the Realm of the Senses is probably more disturbing than anything else, but one’s mileage may vary. It explores a sexual relationship that begins intensely and only grows more so as the film progresses, with things gradually getting more and more violent, not to mention psychologically harrowing. It’s a lot to take in and then sit with, once the film’s over, but you do have to admire the confidence and commitment found in something like this.
34
‘Summer with Monika’ (1953)
Causing a stir in 1953, but being relatively tame by today’s standards, Summer with Monika is still worth mentioning as a significant film within the category of movies that can be described as “erotic.” It was an early Ingmar Bergman film, and far from one of his best, but nonetheless contains compelling qualities, telling the story of a young man and woman pressured into living together after the latter becomes pregnant.
What was initially just a “Summer” begins to look like a lifetime, which naturally causes drama and emotional turmoil for the two main characters. Summer with Monika was daring for its time and still feels pretty effective as a drama about societal pressures and the fragility of love, especially as the latter relates to young people who might still be trying to figure out what they want to do with their lives.
33
‘Room in Rome’ (2010)
If it had been made more recently, Room in Rome probably would’ve caused more of a stir and been more controversial. As it stands, it came out in 2010, and wasn’t seen by very many people either… so, hey, maybe it would’ve come and gone had it been made in 2025, too. As for the plot? There really isn’t any plot. It’s kind of like Before Sunrise, but with gratuitous nudity.
The two lead characters are attractive women who meet in a hotel room and spend a lot of time naked and/or having sex. It’s directed by a man, and that – if not criticized in 2010 – would’ve made Room in Rome open to lots of criticism if made in more recent times. Defenders might call it a purely sensual film, while others might say it’s too close to being a feature-length excuse to show lots of sex and nudity. Does the truth lie somewhere in between? Does anyone care?
32
‘Crash’ (1996)
David Cronenberg has made his fair share of movies appropriate for sickos, with Crash feeling overall like one of his most twisted and provocative. It follows the lives of various people who have what most would consider to be an unusual fetish: that of car accidents; people who seem to become sexually aroused by either the idea of cars crashing, or actually being involved in accidents.
It’s empathetic on top of being disturbing, and there’s an unusual atmosphere present throughout Crash that’s easy to appreciate when you’re watching it, but harder to properly put into words once it’s over. It’s certainly not a film for the faint of heart, by any means, but anyone after a character-focused drama that’s unafraid to explore a darker side of sexuality might well find Crash intriguing.
31
‘Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!’ (1989)
Antonio Banderas has collaborated with Robert Rodriguez many times, sure, but he’s also been a favorite actor of Pedro Almodóvar. Almodóvar caused a stir with the release of Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!, which was one of his first films to find some degree of international success, and it also provided a fairly early role for Banderas, who plays a disturbed young man named Ricky.
Essentially, the plot revolves around Ricky kidnapping an actress he once had sex with, and this premise somehow leads to some degree of comedy alongside being more intense/dramatic. Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! is pretty bizarre and hard to recommend to everyone, though it commits to its premise in an uncompromising and therefore somewhat admirable way, and overall feels like the kind of movie that doesn’t really care what you think. So, good for Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!
30
‘Zandalee’ (1991)
If you’ve ever wanted to see Nicolas Cage take part in a movie with a similar premise to The Room (and execution that’s honestly not much better), then Zandalee is the movie for you. Cage plays a man whom one woman decides to have an affair with, as she’s gotten bored with her usual partner, which naturally leads to emotional turmoil, melodrama, and chaos.
It’s one of the best bad Nicolas Cage movies, giving the actor ample opportunities to overact while also being ridiculous across the board; not simply because of Nicolas Cage being in it. Zandalee is a mess and a largely forgotten one, at that, but those after a very specific type of overwrought 1990s cheese will likely find a great deal to appreciate here, even if such appreciation is ultimately ironic.
29
‘Cat People’ (1982)
A remake/reimagining of a classic gothic horror movie released exactly 40 years earlier, 1982’s Cat People is very much a different sort of beast, being sleazier, more explicitly violent, and decidedly more in your face. One’s mileage will vary on whether this was the right approach to take when updating an understated and quietly effective horror movie, but at the very least, both Cat People movies stand apart.
Narratively, this Paul Schrader-directed version centers on a woman with a dark past/secret involving large predatory cats, with such an unusual “condition” dramatically affecting her romantic life. Cat People is pretty wild stuff, and the eroticism can be laughably much, but it has a distinct style/feel it’s going for and achieves it all the way, making for a strange but somewhat engrossing viewing experience.
28
‘Killing Me Softly’ (2002)
Definitely not to be mixed up with 2012’s Killing Them Softly, 2002’s Killing Me Softly is quite the infamous title, starring Heather Graham and Joseph Fiennes at a time when they were relatively well-known… though perhaps this film didn’t help their careers going forward. It’s a 21st-century take on the erotic thriller genre, following a woman as she tries to deal with growing suspicions about her husband’s past.
He’s had a complex history with previous partners, leading to paranoia and general distrust, all of which is supposed to grow more intense and passionate… but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. Killing Me Softly is certainly one of the lesser-known erotic thrillers of its time, and has generally been forgotten to time, except by those who’ve survived watching it and have lived to tell the tale.
27
‘The Boy Next Door’ (2015)
The Boy Next Door has a rather generic title, and there’s also little about the premise that inspires a great deal of excitement or anticipation of something unique. Essentially, the main plot focuses on a woman who’s going through problems with her marriage, and what happens when she begins to take an interest in a younger man who’s recently become her next-door neighbor.
Surprising absolutely no one, this man isn’t who he initially appears to be, and that’s before taking into account the fact that having the affair in the first place leads to consequences with the initial marriage. Watching The Boy Next Door, one feels a little bad for Jennifer Lopez being stuck in a leading role like this, because very few people would’ve been able to turn in a good performance with what she (and the other cast members) of the film were given.
26
‘American Gigolo’ (1980)
A couple of years before Cat People, Paul Schrader also directed the rather erotically charged and intense American Gigolo, a film that happened to get a 2022 TV adaptation that sort of came and went. This 1980 film was noteworthy for being one of Richard Gere’s first starring roles, and also for featuring the Blondie song “Call Me,” which nowadays might actually be more well-known than the film itself.
Narratively, American Gigolo concerns an escort whose clients are generally older women, and what happens when he finds himself the suspect in a murder he swears he had nothing to do with. Perhaps it’s somewhat of an erotic thriller, but American Gigolo also emerges as something of a crime/mystery movie as a result of this plot development; not a great one, sure, but it’s got style, and the bold early 1980s aesthetics certainly pack a punch, too.
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By Jonathan Klotz
| Published
Have you ever seen something that shocked and terrified you so much that when you close your eyes late at night, you still see it? I feel that way about Punky Brewster. Not the infamous refrigerator episode. The one that has stayed with me for decades is “The Perils of Punky,” a two-part episode that aired back in October 1985.
A Halloween episode centered around Punky telling her friends a ghost story, the second part goes full horror by seemingly killing her friends, and worst of all, her dog. Sure, you can watch it today and laugh at the over-the-top acting and hilarious special effects, but as a kid watching this, it’s haunted me for decades.
The Perils Of Punky Didn’t Have To Go This Hard
In “The Perils of Punky, Part 2,” Punky (Soleil Moon Frye) ventures into the cave at the request of Native American spirits to defeat the monster within, and quickly comes across a man in six separate pieces strewn across the cave. That’s followed up by a giant spider trapping her friends in its web, and while she defeats it with a tomahawk, saving her friends, it’s only a temporary reprieve before the sinister spirit takes them away. On the one hand, Punky’s fear of abandonment is a very real fear that lots of kids feel, especially those in the foster care system, but on the other hand, did the producers really have to have them come back as zombies and ghosts?
Allen (Casey Ellison) appears as a screaming face on the wall, Cherie (Cherie Johnson) is a possessed zombie with glowing red eyes, and Marguex (Ami Foster) becomes a dancing skeleton. This all happens one directly after another while Punky Brewster stumbles through the cave, screaming over the fate of her friends (and Marguex). Even her loyal dog Brandon, isn’t spared. He appears as a skeleton dog, but because it’s Brandon, his tail is still wagging.
Punky makes it past this gauntlet and reaches the depths of the cave. The Moon Priestess, also played by Soleil Moon Frye, helps her face the evil spirit, who looks like a shaky constellation with evil eyes. In true Punky Brewster fashion, her unflappable optimism, spirit, and love for her friends (and Marguex) overcome the nightmare and banish it to wherever 80s television producers got their terrifying ideas.
Traumatizing Children Transcends Generations
The cast of Punky Brewster has talked about the filming of the episode in multiple interviews, since, well, being traumatized by it was a millennial rite of passage. Making it was fun, and they thought the special effects were stupid-looking, and they are, but through the magic of television, hundreds of thousands of children screamed at the sudden appearance of Allen’s terrifying face. For a show that normally films on three sets, getting to have fun with the wild cave environment and horror-movie makeup had to be a blast, and as an adult, it’s easy to appreciate.
Kids today still get to experience shows that will randomly traumatize them, but they tend to be animated. Gravity Falls’ “Weirdmaggeddon” is a great example, especially when Bill Cipher rearranges the face of Pacifica’s dad. It’s horrifying, but it’s animated, and viewers watching the series were used to the show getting weird. Punky Brewster wasn’t that type of show. Then again, neither was G.I.Joe, and that included an entirely fake family that melted into goo.
Punky Brewster is one of many seemingly normal ’80s kids’ shows that weren’t above traumatizing children. We survived The Neverending Story, we saw Gremlins at way too young an age for the Santa Claus story. There was something about the freedom of that decade that encouraged this type of behavior. At least Punky Brewster never did anything nearly this scary ever again, and especially not with a common household appliance.
Entertainment
3 Years Later, Guy Ritchie and Jason Statham’s Spy Thriller Is Reborn Thanks to James Bond Fans
Separately, Jason Statham and Guy Ritchie have given the world some of the greatest action hits, but when they work together, the force of the duo can’t be denied. They first worked together in the late 90s on Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, the classic crime thriller co-starring Jason Flemyng and Dexter Fletcher. Not only is this the first time they worked together, but this was also Statham’s feature acting debut, and the film made it immediately clear that he was a star. They reunited two years later for Snatch, which co-stars Brad Pitt. The film is currently streaming on Netflix. They took a few years apart from working together before they teamed once more for Revolver, the R-rated thriller that was panned by both critics and audiences.
It wasn’t until 16 years after Revolver that Statham and Ritchie worked together again on Wrath of Man, and they most recently collaborated on Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, the epic spy thriller following a high-level operative who teams up with a Hollywood movie star to stop the sale of illegal weapons technology. The film was a flop at the box office, grossing only $48 million globally against a $50 million budget, and it earned scores of 51% from critics and 82% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. In America, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre is currently streaming on Prime Video, and it’s been one of the most popular movies on the platform for the last week. Ritchie directed and wrote the script for the film, which co-stars Aubrey Plaza, Cary Elwes, Hugh Grant, Josh Hartnett, Eddie Marsan, and more.
Jason Statham and Guy Ritchie Are Reuniting Soon
It’s been three years since Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre hit theaters, but Ritchie and Statham aren’t done working together yet. Last year, it was announced that the duo would reunite for a new crime thriller that’s being billed as a sequel/reboot to Daniel Craig’s Layer Cake. The film just rounded out its cast last week with other stars like Jason Isaacs, and it’s reportedly now in production. The film does not yet have an official release date, but it will likely premiere sometime next year. Statham will return to the screen this summer with Mutiny, which also stars Annabelle Wallis (Peaky Blinders).
Be sure to watch Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre before it’s removed from Prime Video and stay tuned to Collider for more streaming updates.
- Release Date
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March 3, 2023
- Runtime
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113 minutes
- Producers
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Jason Statham, Steven Chasman, Bill Block, Ivan Atkinson
CBS has long been the home of some of the best comedies on television. From the days of I Love Lucy and Designing Women to currently running hits like Ghosts and Georgie and Mandy’s First Marriage, if you’re looking for a laugh, you’re likely to find one there. The network’s current Monday night lineup is home to an underrated gem that may not have caught your eye yet — and may be your next favorite workplace comedy. DMV, returning tonight with its first midseason premiere, follows a group of co-workers at the East Hollywood DMV as they deal with all the chaos, boredom, and frustration of working somewhere no one ever actually wants to be. Today, as part of Collider’s Exclusive Spring Preview event for the hottest TV shows and films of the coming months, we’re thrilled to bring you a sneak peek from tonight’s new episode, along with an exclusive interview with star Tim Meadows about what to expect from the rest of Season 1.
Ahead of tonight’s new episode, titled “Hot Gurlz,” I sat down with Meadows to discuss what we can expect from the show’s return. The show’s midseason finale left us on a cliffhanger back in December with Gregg (Meadows) planning to sue the DMV over his broken chair, putting him at odds with their location’s over-eager manager Barb (Molly Kearney). “Well, it causes a big rift between his relationship with him and Barb. She didn’t like it,” Meadows told Collider. “They’ve known each other for a long time, so it’s weird for Barb to really have it out for Gregg.” But don’t worry, they won’t be beefing for too long, as Meadows promised, “Their resolution is very sweet. You sort of learn that Gregg cares a lot for his relationship with Barb, just like I care a lot about my relationship with Molly.”
Meadows went on to sing his co-star’s praises, saying, “There were times where Molly would improvise lines, and one time they said, ‘Oh my god, this is like the time that I had a dream that I was making out with Gregg.’ [Laughs] It was cut, and we just started laughing because they had never said that before. I just love working with Molly. I do. I love it.” While Gregg has a solid working relationship with Barb, he’s got a much more complicated one with his wife. Though she’s yet to make an appearance on the show, Gregg makes enough “ball-and-chain” jokes that we’ve already got a bit of an idea of what to expect if she ever does arrive. When I asked Meadows if he had anyone in mind to play her, he revealed two truly excellent options. He told Collider:
“You know, it’s funny, I have my own preferences as far as just comedically of people that I think we’d be very funny together because we’ve known each other. Like somebody like Amy Sedaris, I think, would be my number one choice. I would love for her to be this woman who’s just really making his home life miserable, because I think Amy could just do an amazing job with that kind of description. […] So, that’s my first choice. Anybody else after that, I’d be honored. Another favorite of mine would be if it were somebody like Tiffani Amber Thiessen. […] It’s like this very beautiful woman who does not fit the mold of being this angry, hard-driving wife. She and I worked together before, and we have maintained a showbiz sort of friendship, but we have a very good rapport with each other, too. So, that’s another choice I’d go for. That would be really fun.”
‘DMV’s Ensemble Cast Captures the Unexpected Found Family Vibe
Tonight’s new episode of DMV sees Collette attempting to get closer to Ceci as she strives to be part of her DMV “Hot Gurlz” group chat. But how does someone nab a spot in that coveted group? Enter Ceci’s cousin. Colette jumps at the opportunity to both get in good with Ceci and finally move on from her crush on Noa (Alex Tarrant). However, as our sneak peek shows, Ceci’s cousin loses a bit of his appeal when he comes down off a work ladder and reveals himself to be a short king. The official logline for “Hot Gurlz” reads, “Colette goes on a date with Ceci’s cousin Miguel (Eddie Ramos) and discovers he may be the key to Ceci’s heart. Meanwhile, Barb finds out about Gregg’s lawsuit against the DMV while Vic helps Noa deal with rude customer Brent (Mark Feuerstein).”
When it comes to nailing down that perfect workplace comedy vibe of a group of people who would not otherwise be friends, Meadows credits the writers for establishing those dynamics early on. “A lot of it comes from the writers, and I think in the first few episodes, the actors are getting a feel for what the writers are sort of creating,” he explained. Over the course of the first season, the relationships between the ensemble cast and the writers began to feed into each other, of course. As Meadows says, “Then, as the writers get to know the actors and what we can do and how we work together on set, they begin to write for the actors playing the characters.”
Meadows had nothing but lovely things to say about the DMV writers, “The writers this year on this show, I give them all the credit in the world, and I told them I love what they have done. They really have nailed bringing those aspects of who we are personally and the show’s characters together, and that’s how it got to be so funny as we kept doing it.” Meadows is no stranger to the comedy world, as one of the longest-running cast members of SNL and with over 125 acting credits to his name, but DMV is already a standout in his career. “I’ve been around for a while, you know? But I told them, I was like, ‘It gets better and better and better,’ because we’re learning all these new things about these characters, but also, there are these underlying jokes between our characters that only we in the cast, and the writers, know about. That stuff is very fun.”
Meadows went on to continue sharing praise for the writers, namely showrunner Dana Klein, explaining how playing DMV‘s former teacher turned driving instructor felt like a perfect next step after playing many, many teachers over the course of his career. He told Collider:
“Dana was doing the show, and I know people who know Dana, so when I asked my friends, they were like, ‘Yeah, she’s great.’ So, I read the script, and I loved the character, and I thought it was something different. It also felt like the character was the next step of characters that I’ve played in my career, which were teachers. This guy is a former teacher who now works at the DMV, and I thought, ‘Well, that’s a nice way to sort of kill off the teacher roles that I’ve done,’ from The Goldbergs and Mean Girls, and all that. It’s like that’s who this guy has now become, because he has the same dynamic as that Winnie the Pooh character, [Eeyore], who’s like, ‘Oh, poor me.’ That’s the same sort of characteristic that the teacher in Mean Girls had, which was, ‘I just want to get out of here. I’m done working here.’”
‘DMV’ Digs Deeper Into Your Favorite Relationships When Season 1 Returns on CBS
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, Meadows promised plenty of character growth in the back half. “I think the growth of the characters in the second half of the show is mainly about how they relate to each other, and you sort of discover other things about these characters.” For Gregg, we can expect to see him take on a sort of DMV-dad role, “You learn that my character, everyone ends up coming to him for advice, and everything,” said Meadows.
Not only that, but we’ll get to see some more backstory for Gregg as well. Meadows teased, “You also learn that he’s an insanely good driving instructor. Even though he hates his job, there are some things that he can do very well. And the Firebird that he has in the first half of the show, you see as this old souped-up muscle car, but there’s a reason that he has that car, and you find out about that in the second half of the season.”
Check out our sneak peek from “Hot Gurlz” above, and don’t miss the new episode tonight at 8:30 PM ET on CBS. Stay tuned for more TV news from Collider’s Exclusive Preview event all week.
- Release Date
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October 13, 2025
- Directors
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Trent O’Donnell
Maxi Shield
‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Star Dead at 51
Published
Maxi Shield, the Australian drag performer best known for being a standout contestant on “RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under,” has died.
The news of her death was announced by fellow drag queen and friend, Vanity, who said in part via Instagram … “We are all mourning the loss of an incredible icon, friend, and our beloved sister. Thank you for the laughs, the cackles, and the magic you brought into our lives.”
Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.
It’s not clear when Maxi — born Kristopher Elliot — died, and a cause was also not disclosed by Vanity, but Maxi announced last fall she’d been diagnosed with throat cancer.
Maxi was a fan-favorite on the first season of ‘Drag Race Down Under’ in 2021 … she came in sixth place.
She was 51.
RIP
Nevaeh Akira has shared a few messages after she and Blueface revealed that they’re expecting a baby.
RELATED: Baby OTW! Blueface Seemingly Confirms His Boo Nevaeh Akira Is Pregnant After Test Reveal (VIDEOS)
Nevaeh Akira Shares A Few Messages After She & Blueface Reveal They’re Expecting A Baby
Hours after Nevaeh Akira and Blueface made their announcement to the world, she took to her Instagram Story to share a photo, which appeared to show her young son sitting next to Blueface. Furthermore, Akira used an emoji to cover her son’s face — as she also used a blue heart emoji to cover Blue’s face — so it remains unclear how old her son is. Then, after that post, Akira re-shared footage of her and Blue’s pregnancy reveal. Then, she followed up with a clip of Blueface speaking on how he would like their child to look like him.
“I wasn’t overly in love with my son donor, but I’m overly in love with him so I don’t think I’ll have parts. [crying face emoji] this is my partner,” she wrote next to the clip.
Swipe to the fifth slide below to see the moment she highlighted.
After that post, Akira shared a clip of two baby boys lying side by side. Furthermore, the caption of the clip was, “POV: YOU GAVE YOUR OLDEST A SIBLING [white heart emoji]”
“oh I can’t wait, my son is so loving and caring with other children I know he’s going to be the best big brother. [orange heart emoji] [emotional emoji],” Akira wrote under the clip.
Before hopping off, Akira added that Blueface’s restaurant, King of Crabs, is her addiction.
More On Nevaeh Akira & Blueface Expecting A Baby
As The Shade Room previously reported, Nevaeh Akira and Blueface revealed they’re expecting a baby on Sunday, February 22. At the time, the pair were reportedly on a Twitch livestream, and they showed two positive pregnancy tests to viewers.
Here’s How Karlissa Saffold Harvey Reacted To The Announcement
Afterward, Karlissa Saffold Harvey took to her Instagram Story to react to the pair’s news. Furthermore, she wrote, “Kids are a blessing if he happy I’m happy [heart hands emoji] congratulations to them both and may God bless the baby.” This, followed by another post, which read, “It’s a girl and I already knew she was coming [crying face emoji]”
To note, Blueface shared two older children with Jaidyn Alexis, and a two-year-old son with Chrisean Rock. At this time, Alexis and Rock have not publicly reacted to his announcement.
RELATED: New Addition! Karlissa Saffold Harvey Reacts To Blueface & Nevaeh Akira’s Apparent Pregnancy Announcement
What Do You Think Roomies?
Claressa Shields and Papoose hit the club after she defeated Franchón Crews-Dezurn and retained her heavyweight title.
RELATED: Okay, Sis! Fans Are Sending Claressa Shields Heart Eyes After She Flexed A Fresh NEW Look Ahead Of Fight Night (VIDEOS)
More On Claressa Shields Defeating Franchón Crews-Dezurn & Retaining Her Heavyweight Title
On Sunday, February 22, Claressa Shields and Papoose arrived at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, for her anticipated face-off against Franchón Crews-Dezurn. Furthermore, Shields and Pap arrived decked out in mink furs while the boxer appeared to don a gown under hers.
“I heard we sold out… uh, huh! They be hating bad on the gwoat. But we gon’ make it all worth your time tonight,” Shields said braggadociously on the walk-in while Pap called her the “best ever.”
Instagram user @m8kupjunkie reacted to the clip in TSR’s comment section, writing, “Pap is such a supportive wife!
While Instagram user @therealslsx1 added, “Mama Dee must be her stylist 😂”
Instagram user @tabether wrote, “She love a prom dress”
While Instagram user @itsjust_drae added, “Is it just me or do they both look crazy 😂… a MESS!”
Peep their walk-in below.
Ultimately, Shields took the win against Franchón Crews-Dezurn. Per ESPN, judges scored the fight 100-90. During her post-interview, Shields praised Crews-Dezurn’s skills and ability to keep her on her toes.
“I felt like I had to take my time. Franchon hits hard and she’s tough and you got to be very tricky with her. She was trying to cause the upset today and got me with some shots, but Franchon is exactly who she thinks she is — ‘The Heavy Hitting Diva’ — and that’s one of the best fights that I’ve been in at my professional career, especially at 10 rounds. It was fun. I had to watch my ass every round,” she reportedly stated.
Social Media Reacts Alongside Her Opponent
Social media users reacted to Claressa Shields’ win against Franchón Crews-Dezurn in TSR’s comment section.
Instagram user @bigkunoichi wrote, “She is a real professional fighter. I love how she has Good sportsmanship ❤️”
While Instagram user @rileyyywst added, “Claressa is really that girl! Y’all can say what y’all want about her, but that girl is good at what she do, and she does it well 👋🏽👏🏽”
Instagram user @mzloy wrote, “The sportsmanship at the end pull me in. This is the energy we need from each other.”
While Instagram user @_aubreyj added, “Papoose better stay in line.. 💀”
Instagram user @yooohypemommy wrote, “When I tell yall she got them dog walkers 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 my goodness! I see why she talk major ish she can back it up!! 😍😍”
While Instagram user @ke_ceo added, “That’s sad i never heard about this girl before pap and remy scheme that Todd put together and she was literally an undefeated champ before then.”
Claressa Shields even stepped in and wrote:
“CANT STOP AND WONT STOP 🥊🔥 THE GREATEST EVER!!!!”
“She inspires me. She came in at a time where I was dominant and shook the table up. When I’m seeing her, I’m like, ‘OK, that’s a point I could get to, or that’s somebody who can keep fire under me,’ and it’s never a jealousy thing. I’m proud of her.”
Furthermore, Boosie, who walked Shields out to the ring ahead of the fight, also shared his excitement when she won.
Claressa Shields & Papoose Hit The Club After She Defeated Franchón Crews-Dezurn & Retained Her Heavyweight Title
After her victory, Claressa Shields and Papoose hit the club to celebrate. Furthermore, footage shared by Instagram user @livebitez showed Shields gloating about her win while vibing to music alongside her boo.
Click here to see the NSFW clip.
RELATED: Claressa Shields Explains Heated Weigh-In With Franchon Crews-Dezurn As The Internet Reacts To Papoose Poppin’ Off (VIDEOS)
What Do You Think Roomies?
“I might swerve, bend that corner, woah.” LaMelo Ball may have taken his brother LiAngelo Ball‘s “Tweaker” lyrics a little too literal.
Chatter about the Charlotte Hornets star’s driving skills, or lack thereof as many have stated, has taken over social media after he crashed his Hummer on the streets of uptown Charlotte a few days ago. Many Instagram and TikTok users have been sharing their own personal stories about avoiding LaMelo on the streets of Charlotte and the jokes are basically writing themselves.
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NBA Player LaMelo Ball Crashed His Hummer In Charlotte Earlier This Week
According to The Charlotte Observer, Hornets star LaMelo Ball was in a “minor collision” on Wednesday, Feb. 18 in uptown Charlotte on Trade and Tyron streets. People gathered at the intersection just after 4:30 p.m. shortly after the crash.
The Charlotte Observer shared that a manager at a business on the corner of the intersection said that LaMelo’s camo Hummer crashed into a silver sedan in the middle of the intersection. The manager said that he “never got out of his car or anything” before another car picked him up and he left.
It didn’t take long for footage of the crash to be found all over the internet, and of course, social media users to chime in and start sharing their stories about seeing LaMelo driving around Charlotte.
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‘The City Of Charlotte Talking About LaMelo Like A Gotham Villain’
Social media immediately lit up with stories about how this unfortunate incident is far from a first for LaMelo.
Playmaker Hoops shared a post on Instagram captioned, “Charlotte residents are making themselves heard,” and the comments quickly filled up. On the post photo, they shared another post that reads, “LaMelo BEEN terrorizing the city of Charlotte. Almost every person in this comment section has a story about him almost running them over.”
One person shared the same thought many have, “Sooo Gelo made that song about Melo.” Another added, “I believe it. Every time he leaves the arena he speeds off like a bat outta hell and doesn’t stop for the red light.” One other wrote, “He drive around Charlotte like he ain’t got no damn sense.”
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TikTok Users Also Had A Lot To Share
There was more talk about LaMelo’s driving on the streets of Charlotte, and the theme was the same as on Instagram.
TikToker Dominique Cooper shared a video about how “LaMelo Ball car crash made Charlotte mad.”
“First, anybody getting in a car crash is not funny. I hope everybody that was in this car crash with LaMelo Ball is safe, no injuries, but why this woman comment said he done hit everybody, he almost hit everybody,” as he’s laughing and sharing the funniest comments he’s found online.
The comment section of the video did not disappoint.
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“Surviving LaMelo Ball coming soon on Netflix,” one viewer wrote. Another added, “Mind u Charlotte is not small so he going outa his way to terrorize everybody.” One other viewer shared, “You know how dangerous you gotta be driving for a whole city to be scared of you.” Another person wrote, “It’s true though. We see that Hummer coming and part the road like the Red Sea. He thinks it’s outta respect, we just scared.”
The video quickly went viral with more than 2 million views and thousands of comments.
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‘LaMelo Ball Has The Entire City Of Charlotte Held Hostage’
Over on Instagram, @TheSlightlyBiasedShow shared a video talking about how “LaMelo Ball is terrorizing an entire major city like he’s the Joker.”
“Any time a Hornets’ game ends, the entire city of Charlotte shuts down like it’s the purge,” he said. “Everyone has to wait until LaMelo gets off the roadways because it’s terrorizing. The citizens of Charlotte, North Carolina are literally living their lives in fear.”
After reading some comments he found, he added, “If you watch the local news in Charlotte, they literally track the Hornets’ schedule like it’s the weather. The moment they’re on a four-game road trip, it’s like the purge lifts and everybody can go outside and enjoy the city without having the fear of being ran down by LaMelo Ball.”
“I saw a blur going past me walking downtown, and I looked back and obviously I saw the car and knew it was him,” one viewer wrote. Another said, “I think the wildest part is his crib is .2 miles (literally) from Spectrum Center. All this happens within 4 square blocks.” Another person shared, “Watched him eat a curb in his G wagon when we had the snowstorm.”
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LaMelo Ball’s Response When Asked About The Accident In Postgame Presser
During the postgame press conference after the car crash, LaMelo was asked to “put into the words the last 24 hours” and how it was for him to play a game right after the crash.
“I’m just alive. Blessed, for real,” LaMelo said. “God is great, like I said.” He then got up and walked out of the room.
ESPN shared the clip on TikTok and fans dropped into the comments to share their thoughts.
“0 accountability, not even an apology,” one fan pointed out. Another said, “He don’t care.” And one other wrote, “He can only be mad at himself. LaMelo could easily have a driver, yet he chooses not to. He been ripping and running through uptown for years without a care.”
But not everyone was mad at him.
“Sometimes reporters don’t need to ask those types of questions,” one person wrote. Another, who shared a similar sentiment said, “LaMelo did the right thing not answering that question.”
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With flowers (soon to be) in full bloom everywhere, we’re letting nature set the tone for our wardrobe this spring. In just a few weeks, moody winter fashion will long be gone, and in its place will be vibrant, verdant hues that are flourishing across gorgeous floral-print blouses. Yes, we’re talking about the options below.
To carry Us in full botanical style from spring to summer, we’re on the hunt for loose, lightweight floral blouses that look like they were plucked from the garden. No matter your preference — English garden, Dutch florals or bold tropical blooms — there’s a floral top ready to brighten your wardrobe at retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom and Macy’s. You’ll also love that a few big brands are on the list, too — including picks from Free People, Vince Camuto and more. Shop our 14 favorite floral options below.
14 Breezy Floral Blouses Perfect for Spring‑to‑Summer Dressing
1. Our Favorite: There’s a romantic, almost Regency feel to this lace‑adorned puff‑sleeve blouse. In addition to its lovely appearance, the clever top also has an adjustable tie‑back to tailor the fit exactly how you’d like it.
2. Florals on Repeat: We might not frequent garden parties, but we’re due for an invite now that we have this ruffle‑sleeve floral blouse in our cart. The fit is perfect and fashion forward — the only dilemma is picking just one print, since they’re all so gorgeous.
3. Designer Lookalike: Amazon customers opt for this oversized floral top when they want an Anthropologie or Free People style for less. You’ll stand out in the crowd with its punchy print and oversized collar.
4. All Seasons: If prints aren’t your style, opt for this luxe floral‑embroidered top that keeps the blooms confined to the sleeves. It’s a versatile pick that stands out in March . . . just as much as it does in May.
5. Casual to Cocktails: Should your tastes lean toward breezy tees, this floral‑embroidery blouse is just what you’re looking for. It’s a relaxed, summer-ready style with just enough detail to make it look boutique.
6. Romantic Appeal: Far from ordinary, this Free People floral top uses embroidered stitching to create a garden‑wall design that looks like it was plucked straight from a romantic storybook.
7. Vacation Ready: Bold blue, emerald green and rose pink are a few floral color palettes available in this loose fringed‑sleeve top. It’s not just you, it does radiate ‘vacation mode.’
8. Baroque Blooms: Bright pastels and pinks can be overplayed. This dark floral blouse brings a moodier, more sophisticated take on spring and summer fashion, and we’re obsessed.
9. Unmatched Style: There’s a touch of elegant Eastern influence in this tie-front floral blouse that has a punchy print, which feels inspired by the likes of Oscar de la Renta. We might even go full matchy-matchy and invest in the coordinating pants.
10. Muffin Top-Friendly: You’ll have no issue hiding extra midsection weight in this puff‑sleeve peplum top from CeCe. We’re already imagining the endless outfit options, including outfits featuring cut‑off shorts and tailored trousers.
11. Bargain Buy: We were almost certain this ruffle‑trim floral top was a Hill House Home style that found its way into Old Navy’s lineup. The romantic pattern brings a cottagecore charm that works any time of year.
12. Designer Collab: Last year, Old Navy dropped an in‑demand Anna Sui collab, and almost everything sold out in a flash. Miraculously, this breezy button‑down blouse is still hanging around, but not for long!
13. Versatility Achieved: Tile prints are still trending, which is why we can’t resist this rose‑print camp shirt that’s just as gorgeous with distressed denim as it is with your favorite wide‑leg pants.
14. Boho Style: Embrace throwback fashion with a modern twist in this boho‑bloom blouse that looks lifted straight from the flower‑power era.
I had to do a serious double-take while scrolling through Walmart’s new arrivals — because since when are affordable sweaters this good? While everyone is busy hunting for spring dresses, there’s a whole lineup of lightweight knits quietly sitting in stock, and prices start at just $10. The vibe is easy, layerable and shockingly chic, […]
Swinging in to cure your winter blues, Prime Video’s upcoming series, The Gray House, blends a pulse-pounding espionage plot with the darkest and most dismal days of the Civil War to bring historical drama fans something completely new. Welcoming Emmy and Golden Globe winner, Mary-Louise Parker (The West Wing, Weeds), back to the episodic fold, the captivating tale of Union spies doing their best to undermine the South’s advances sets the stage for a binge-worthy arrival with all eight episodes hitting the platform on February 26. Today, as part of Collider’s Exclusive Preview event, where we’re showing off the most hotly anticipated titles to make their return in the approaching weeks, we’ve got a sneak peek of the project backed by producers Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman.
Daisy Head (The Syndicate) is on a top-secret mission in our exclusive first look at The Gray House. Under the cover of night and a costume that conceals her true identity (complete with a fake mustache), her character slips into a party unnoticed and makes her way to the second floor. Upon her arrival upstairs, she finds the woman she’d been looking for but not the answers she was hoping for.
In addition to Parker and Head, Prime Video’s newest period drama also features the talents of a call sheet that includes Amethyst Davis (Happily Ever After), Ben Vereen (Jesus Christ Superstar), Keith David (The Thing), Paul Anderson (Peaky Blinders), Colin Morgan (Merlin), Ian Duff (We Own This City), Hannah James (Mercy Street), Christopher McDonald (Thelma & Louise), Robert Knepper (Prison Break), Catherine Garton (The War Between the Land and the Sea), Sam Trammell (True Blood) and more.
Meet the Creatives Behind ‘The Gray House’
Freeman will produce The Gray House under his Revelations Entertainment banner with his business partner, Lori McCreary, while Costner operates under his Territory Pictures. The title also hails from Paramount’s Republic Pictures and Leslie Greif’s Big Dreams Entertainment. Greif, who previously collaborated with Costner on Hatfields & McCoys, co-penned the Civil War-centered project alongside Darrell Fetty and John Sayles, with Roland Joffe (The Killing Fields) directing. Additionally, the soundtrack features an all-star lineup of musicians like Willie Nelson, Shania Twain, Killer Mike, Yolanda Adams, and more, adding their voices to the project, while Jon Bon Jovi holds co-writing credits for one of the title’s songs.
Check out our new look at The Gray House above and stay tuned for more to come from Collider’s Exclusive Preview event. Tune into Prime Video on February 26 to stream all eight episodes of the wartime drama.
- Release Date
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February 26, 2026
- Network
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Prime Video
- Directors
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Roland Joffé
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Daisy Head
Elizabeth Van Lew
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Paul Anderson
Stokely Reeves
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Amethyst Davis
Mary Jane Richards
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Ryan Coogler enjoyed another triumphant awards night as he scooped up the Best Original Screenplay BAFTA for “Sinners.”
The “Black Panther” director’s vampire horror flick has enjoyed both massive commercial success and widespread critical acclaim since its release in April 2025.
That winning momentum carried over to the 79thBritish Academy Film Awards, where “Sinners” walked away with a total of three trophies.
Coogler’s personal triumph proved especially significant, marking a history-making moment for a black filmmaker at the BAFTAs.
Almost immediately, industry watchers began predicting similar success at the upcoming Academy Awards.
“Sinners” heads into the Oscars with an impressive 16 nominations, with the ceremony scheduled for March 15, 2026.
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Ryan Coogler Becomes First Black BAFTA Winner For Original Screenplay
Coogler’s victory for the Best Original Screenplay at the 2026 BAFTAs was the first ever by a Black filmmaker.
Woody Allen holds the record for the most wins (four) in the category, recognized for scripts including “Broadway Danny Rose” and “Husbands and Wives.”
Other notable past winners include Nora Ephron for “When Harry Met Sally,” Quentin Tarantino for “Pulp Fiction,” and Paul Thomas Anderson for “Licorice Pizza.”
As he received his trophy, Coogler admitted that he hadn’t expected the win, while also paying tribute to his fellow nominees.
“I’m nominated with some incredible writers,” he said. “I’ll share this with y’all… Y’all already won by being here.”
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‘Sinners’ Triumphs As Wunmi Mosaku Takes Best Supporting Actress
As well as Coogler’s Best Original Screenplay, another big win for “Sinners” on BAFTAs night saw Wunmi Mosaku crowned as Best Supporting Actress.
In the film, Mosaku portrays Annie, a hoodoo practitioner who is also the estranged wife of Smoke, one of Michael B. Jordan’s twin characters.
During her acceptance speech, the Nigerian-born actress reflected on the deeply personal connection she felt to Annie, comparing the character’s journey to her own experience as an immigrant in Britain.
“I found a part of myself in Annie,” she said. “A part of my hopes, my ancestral power and connection. Parts of myself I thought I’d lost or tried to dim as an immigrant trying to fit in.”
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Fans Quickly Turn To Oscar Predictions For ‘Sinners’
“Sinners” also secured the BAFTA for Best Original Score, with Swedish composer Ludwig Göransson taking home the accolade.
With those three major wins in the bag, speculation quickly shifted towards the upcoming 98th Academy Awards, where the film heads in with an impressive 16 nominations.
Coogler, Mosaku, and Göransson are all nominated at the Oscars in the same categories as those they conquered at the BAFTAs.
Writing on X, one user confidently predicted a similar outcome for the director: “Ryan has that screenplay Oscar in the bag.”
Coogler is also nominated for Best Director, while the film itself will compete for the night’s top honor – Best Picture.
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Ryan Coogler Honors Black Filmmakers Who Inspired Him
As Coogler makes history with his BAFTA win for “Sinners,” the director has also taken time to acknowledge the Black filmmakers who shaped his journey.
In a recent interview with Deadline, Coogler mentioned the names of other directors who have influenced his storytelling voice.
“I look up to them and their work, specifically Spike [Lee], Ava DuVernay, Nia DaCosta, Steve McQueen, Barry Jenkins, Jordan Peele,” he said. “These are all filmmakers that I get inspired by, and I feel like it’s beautiful that I get to make things in the time that they are making them.”
Coogler also spoke about a deep “sense of connectedness and inspiration” from trailblazers like John Singleton, who paved the way for the generation that followed.
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Ryan Coogler Shifts Focus To ‘Black Panther 3’ After ‘Sinners’ Success
While “Sinners” continues to stand out among 2025 films, Coogler is already looking ahead to his next project.
During a panel at Deadline’s Contenders Film event in November 2025, the “Black Panther” writer and director confirmed that a return to Wakanda is next on his slate after “Sinners.”
“Black Panther 3” is currently scheduled for release in 2028, though plot, casting, and production details remain largely under wraps.
However, Denzel Washington hinted during a 2024 appearance on “Today Show Australia” that Coogler had written a special role for him in the upcoming installment, a revelation the director later confirmed.
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