Entertainment
10 Great HBO Shows You Probably Haven’t Seen
HBO has built its reputation on delivering some of the most recognizable TV of all time. The network has been home to culture-defining hits, including The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, Band of Brothers, and more. What often gets overlooked is that HBO isn’t just limited to its big moneymakers that bring in millions of views.
From the beginning, the network has backed ambitious projects with strong visions, and that still hasn’t changed. Unfortunately, many of these are overshadowed by bigger releases, but that doesn’t take away from their genius. Here is a list of some great yet underrated HBO shows you probably haven’t seen but absolutely need to.
10
‘Sharp Objects’ (2018)
Sharp Objects features Amy Adams in her finest role as Camille, a reporter battling alcoholism who returns to her small Missouri hometown to cover the murders of two young girls. However, to do so, she has to finally confront a past that she has been running away from her entire adult life. The show might feel like a procedural crime drama at first, but Sharp Objects, based on Gillian Flynn’s novel, is a devastating portrayal of complex mother-daughter relationships. The narrative cuts between the past and the present and takes its time to take the audience through the protagonist’s history, and the pain that she wants to keep avoiding.
This slow-burn approach, combined with fleeting flashbacks and abrupt visual cuts, might feel jarring in the beginning, but the pacing immerses its audience in the suffocation of Camille’s life. The shocking twist in the finale is the highlight of the show and brings everything full circle without a traditional clean resolution. For anyone who wants a murder mystery that goes beyond a one-note investigation, Sharp Objects is the perfect binge-watch.
9
‘The Outsider’ (2020)
The Outsider is an underrated masterpiece based on Stephen King’s 2018 novel. The HBO miniseries begins as a procedural and follows detective Ralph Anderson (Ben Mendelsohn) as he investigates the brutal murder of a young boy. Here’s where things get interesting. The early episodes of the show lean into realism with methodological timelines, witness accounts, and forensic details. There’s a sense of certainty about the narrative, which is why it feels so jarring when the rug is suddenly pulled from under the audience.
Unlike many other Stephen King adaptations, the series forces its characters and the audience to slowly question everything they know. We eventually find out about an unseen entity that preys on grief and trauma. Some characters cling desperately to logic, while others start to accept that reality might not be what they thought. This tension keeps viewers on the edge of their seats till the very end. By the time The Outsider fully embraces its supernatural elements, the fear feels earned, and thus, way more real.
8
‘The Plot Against America’ (2020)
The Plot Against America is one of the hardest-hitting miniseries of all time. The show, based on Philip Roth’s 2004 novel, imagines an alternate version of American history in which famed aviator Charles Lindbergh defeats Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1940 presidential election and steers the country toward isolationism, authoritarianism, and borderline fascism. Rather than telling this story through politicians or military leaders, the series grounds everything in the everyday life of a working-class Jewish family, the Levins, in Newark, New Jersey.
This makes Lindbergh’s rise feel personal, with a fictional government program like “Just Folks” promising opportunity while subtly targeting Jewish families. The series is both fascinating and eye-opening to watch in how it shows a slow normalization of intolerance. The pacing is deliberately slow to let the audience sit with discomfort and realize how corruption started taking root within American institutions in this alternate version of history. On one hand, there is this national crisis, but the Levins’ story grounds all of this in the very intimate struggles of a small family. The Plot Against America is HBO’s version of a historical thought experiment, and it’s more than worth watching.
7
‘The Other Two’ (2019–2023)
The Other Two is a hilariously satirical portrayal of modern internet fame. The show follows siblings Brooke (Heléne Yorke) and Cary (Drew Tarver), whose lives take a turn when their 13-year-old brother Chase (Case Walker) becomes a viral pop star overnight. However, as Chase enjoys his newfound fame, Brooke and Cary struggle with their self-worth. The plot starts with a bunch of crazy situations that lead to Chase’s big break. Soon after, Brooke starts working as his assistant while Cary navigates the trials and tribulations of being a struggling actor.
Unlike many other shows, The Other Two doesn’t present internet fame and pop culture as shallow. Instead, the sitcom attempts to show what happens when one’s career rises and falls based on algorithms and relentless online scrutiny. Other than all the sharp commentary, though, the comedy is laugh-out-loud funny and features a pretty realistic portrayal of family dynamics. This is a show that isn’t scared to present its characters as messy and even unlikable at times, but that’s the whole point.
6
‘My Brilliant Friend’ (2018–2024)
HBO’s heartwarming adaptation of Elena Ferrante’s celebrated Neapolitan novel doesn’t get nearly as much appreciation as it deserves. The show tells the story of a lifelong friendship between two women, Elena “Lenù” Greco (Elisa Del Genio, Margherita Mazzucco, and Alba Rohrwacher) and Raffaella “Lila” Cerullo (Ludovica Nasti, Gaia Girace, and Irene Maiorino), beginning in post–World War II Naples and unfolding across decades of social, emotional, and political change. The plot begins with a hook that you just can’t ignore after an older Lenù learns that Lila has vanished without a trace, something Lila had spoken about doing for years. That’s when Lenù begins writing their shared history that starts from their first meeting in 950s Naples in a poor, violent neighborhood shaped by poverty, patriarchy, and limited opportunity.
Over its four seasons, My Brilliant Friend traces how their relationship evolves as the women grow older, enter romantic relationships, confront class mobility, and navigate a society that consistently limits their choices. Even when they are physically apart, Lenù and Lila’s lives remain intertwined, and their friendship is obviously the heart of the show. My Brilliant Friend is one of the most realistic HBO shows and genuinely feels like a replay of someone’s lived memories. It’s immersive without feeling too indulgent, and that’s the mark of a great story.
5
‘Getting On’ (2013–2015)
Getting On is one of HBO’s most daring comedies because it refuses to be an easy watch. The show is set inside the Billy Barnes Extended Care Unit of a chronically underfunded California hospital, and the series focuses on the daily grind of caring for elderly patients who are often dying slowly, painfully, and without dignity. This isn’t Grey’s Anatomy with its medical breakthroughs and heroic saves. Getting On exists in an uncomfortable space between routine paperwork and the emotional exhaustion of these caretakers. Each episode revolves around mundane crises like hospice eligibility, understating, and patients whose suffering stretches for weeks. However, all these small conflicts keep adding up into something much more impactful.
The humor here is dry and almost always uncomfortable. However, the show understands that in real life, you can’t separate tragedy from the naturally human instinct of coping with laughter, even in the darkest of times. That’s not to say that the sitcom treats its patients as the punchlines. The medical comedy TV show actually comes from understanding the bureaucratic systems they have to exist in, along with the contradictions and moral compromises surrounding their care. The show is brutally honest about how good intentions can erode over time, so it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. For anyone who appreciates the absurdity of life, this is the perfect watch.
4
‘We Are Who We Are’ (2020)
Luca Guadagnino just hits different. His work has always been about creating the right mood, and We Are Who We Are is the perfect example of that. The show is set on a fictional U.S. military base in Chioggia, Italy, and follows two American teenagers, Fraser Wilson (Jack Dylan Grazer) and Caitlin “Harper” Poythress (Jordan Kristine Seamón), as they navigate friendship, desire, and self-discovery in the summer and fall of 2016. The contrast between Fraser, who arrives on the base with his two mothers, and Caitlin, who has lived on the base for years, is the highlight of the show for me.
Their bond feels organic and is given a lot of time to breathe. In fact, many episodes of the series linger on conversations that go absolutely nowhere, and that might be frustrating for some. However, Guadagnino’s We Are Who We Are actually argues that everything doesn’t need a motive, because confusion is a defining part of adolescence. Guadagnino turns this military compound into its own world with a soundtrack that mirrors the show’s dream-like quality. We Are Who We Are is one of the most realistic portrayals of teenagers because it doesn’t try to fit them into boxes. Instead, it embraces the messiness of these years.
3
‘Station Eleven’ (2021–2022)
Apocalyptic dramas are often flashy with no real substance, but not Station Eleven. The series is set in the aftermath of a devastating flu pandemic that wipes out most of the world’s population. The story doesn’t explore the mechanics of this tragedy, but focuses on what happens to the ones who survive. Station Eleven begins on the night civilization starts to collapse when famous actor Arthur Leander (Gael García Bernal) suddenly dies onstage during a Chicago production of King Lear. That leads to Jeevan Chaudhary (Himesh Patel), a man in the audience who ends up taking responsibility for Kirsten Raymonde (Matilda Lawler), a young child actor left alone as chaos ensues. The two barricade themselves in an apartment and become each other’s family during this dark time.
The story then jumps forward twenty years. Kirsten is now an adult (Mackenzie Davis) and a key member of the Traveling Symphony, a nomadic group of actors and musicians who travel between small settlements performing Shakespeare. However, they have to deal with threats from violent groups that see culture and memory as dangerous. Station Eleven is more of a character study than an action-driven survival story. It grounds something as major as the apocalypse in plausible human choices rather than some grand disaster. The show is a slow-burning one that demands patience from its audience, but the payoffs always land.
2
‘I May Destroy You’ (2022)
I May Destroy You is not an easy show to watch, but that shouldn’t discourage anyone from experiencing it. The series, created, written, and co-directed by Michaela Coel, stars her as Arabella Essiedu, a young London writer riding the wave of sudden literary success when her life is derailed by an assault. The story doesn’t focus on the shock value of an incident like this. Instead, its brilliance lies in how perfectly it captures the aftermath. Arabella doesn’t become a victim or some symbol of strength. In fact, the writing insists on her remaining a full person who is funny, impulsive, and even selfish at times.
Her healing arc isn’t perfect, but that’s the point. Recovery from something like this is never a linear process, and closure isn’t always guaranteed. Coel trusts her audience to accept that discomfort as part of life. The show features dark humor as a reflection of how people cope by oversharing, spiraling, and pretending to be fine through the worst moments of their lives. The audience doesn’t get catharsis in the traditional sense, but the honesty of the story is what keeps you wanting more.
1
‘The Leftovers’ (2014–2017)
The Leftovers is another supernatural drama that deserves way more recognition than it has gotten. The series, created by Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta and adapted from Perrotta’s novel, begins with a hook that can reel anyone in. This is a world where 2% of the world’s population has suddenly vanished in an instant without any warning or explanation. The story is set in the town of Mapleton, three years after what has been termed the Sudden Departure, and centers on police chief Kevin Garvey (Justin Theroux) and Nora Durst (Carrie Coon), a woman who lost her entire family in the event.
However, around them, the world is seeing the formation of cult-like belief systems as people try to cling to rituals, science, faith, or even madness to explain this strange global event. The Leftovers abandons the typical mystery beats and focuses more on what people might do when meaning itself collapses. Each season deepens the scope of the show without ever losing its emotional grounding. The Leftovers fully commits to ambiguity, but the kind that is bound to fascinate anyone.
The Leftovers
- Release Date
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2014 – 2017-00-00
- Showrunner
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Damon Lindelof
- Writers
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Damon Lindelof, Tom Perrotta
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Concern for Ray J has been swirling since January, when he first revealed severe health issues. That concern intensified when a video showed the singer performing with a chest patch and blood seemingly coming from his eyes. Then, three days into March, his mother, Sonja Norwood confirmed he’s suffering from heart and health issues. Since then, a video has surfaced of Ray J dancing in a nightclub. In response, fans are asking more questions and letting their confusion show!
RELATED: Ray J’s Mom Sonja Norwood Speaks Out & Sets The Record Straight On His Health (WATCH)
Ray J Shows Off His Dance Moves
The details of Ray J’s night out are unclear. However, the visuals are saying plenty to fans! In a short clip obtained by The Shade Room, the singer is seen moving his hips and alternating his hands while touching his head to an R&B song. He appeared to be looking directly at the camera recording and even stuck his tongue out at one point. Ray was dressed causal, rocking a white tee and a U.S. Army-branded beanie. It’s also unclear whether he was in the spot solo or with company and whether he was intoxicated or not.
The Roomies Weigh In
In 18 hours, over 3,400 Instagram roommates dropped their two cents on Ray J showing off his dance moves. Some saw a kiii, while others questioned why he’s in a nightclub while battling health problems. Others pointed out that if the singer isn’t concerned, the public shouldn’t be either. Ray has not addressed the resurfaced video.
IG user @bjrmck commented, “I guess he was tryna take somebody out the club.”
@beththeentertainer added, “Boy if you don’t go a lay down somewhere! Got your mama stressed 😩”
“Ion know. I just hope he gets the help he needs,” @mermaidvibezz22 added.
“Lmaooo somebody on TikTok said he everywhere but the hospital 😭😭😭,” @sounqxo wrote.
@itsquooo commented, “What his mom was saying was wrong with him again ? 🥹”
“That song doesn’t even require those types of movements 😂😂,” @sha_smart1 said.
“Got his mama on this Internet hootin and hollin about his health and he over there doing this,” @krystledaniellerenee commented.
Meanwhile, @therealsusiecarmichael speculated about the singer’s diagnosis. She wrote, “Ray J def drugged tf out and y’all talking about he “sick” yeahhhhh aight.”
“Hear me out – if Ray J was a woman…CONSERVATORSHIP 🗣️,” @jaraemilay said.
What Did Ray’s Mom Say About His Health?
Amid swirling questions, Sonja Norwood gave credibility to her son’s online posts about his health. She said on Tuesday that it’s gotten “out of hand” how many believe that Ray J is “faking his health.” Norwood confirmed that her son was in the hospital in January. Doctors later told him he had “cardiomyopathy,” a type of heart disease. She added that the blood flow to her son’s heart was 15% to 20% and a life-threatening condition.
“It has been told to him that if he does not take his medication, if he does not take medical advice, and if he doesn’t rest and stay stress-free… then he has a life-threatening situation,” Sonja Norwood said.
RELATED: Boosie Gives Health Update After Allegedly Being Hospitalized Over Louisiana Attorney General Lawsuit (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
When Paul Thomas Anderson premiered his latest film, One Battle After Another, the conversation quickly turned to his remarkable consistency as one of modern cinema’s most distinctive auteurs. Over the past two decades, Anderson has steadily climbed the ranks of Hollywood’s most respected filmmakers, earning multiple Academy Award nominations for films like There Will Be Blood, The Master, and Phantom Thread. Yet nestled quietly among these prestige titles is a strange, shaggy detective movie that initially puzzled audiences but has grown in stature over time: Inherent Vice.
Adapted from Thomas Pynchon’s novel, the 2014 film now feels less like an oddity in Anderson’s filmography and more like a stealth turning point for modern neo-noir storytelling. Upon its release, Inherent Vice received a mixed-to-positive reception from critics and audiences. The film currently holds a solid 73% score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting the divided response to its deliberately meandering narrative and eccentric tone. While some viewers found its hazy plotting frustrating, others praised Anderson for channeling the spirit of 1970s American filmmaking. The movie plays like a time capsule from the New Hollywood era—an offbeat, counterculture-infused neo-noir that filters classic Hollywood crime stories through psychedelic humor and a stoner’s worldview. In an industry increasingly dominated by sleek thrillers and tightly structured mysteries, Anderson delivered something looser, stranger, and more atmospheric.
What Is ‘Inherent Vice’ About?
Set in 1970 Los Angeles, the film follows private investigator Larry “Doc” Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix). Doc’s life takes a turn when his ex-girlfriend Shasta Fay Hepworth (Katherine Waterson) suddenly reappears with a strange request: she believes her wealthy real estate developer boyfriend is about to be kidnapped by his own wife and her lover. What begins as a seemingly straightforward missing-person case quickly spirals into a dense web of conspiracies involving drug cartels, corrupt dentists, mysterious organizations, and a shadowy syndicate known as the Golden Fang. The deeper Doc digs, the less clear the truth becomes.
As Doc drifts through smoky beach houses, neon-lit clubs, and foggy Los Angeles streets, the mystery only grows more surreal. Along the way, he crosses paths with a gallery of eccentric characters, including the relentless LAPD detective Christian “Bigfoot” Bjornsen (Josh Brolin), who serves as both Doc’s nemesis and reluctant ally. The film’s plot intentionally dissolves into a haze of half-remembered clues and overlapping conspiracies, reflecting both the paranoia of the early 1970s and Doc’s perpetually altered state of mind. Rather than solving the mystery in traditional fashion, Inherent Vice immerses the audience in the confusion and cultural disorientation of the era.
In Memory of Robert Duvall — The Collider Movie Quiz
‘Inherent Vice’ Is a Throwback to ’70s Unconventional Detective Dramas
Anderson’s whimsical direction places Inherent Vice firmly within the lineage of unconventional detective stories from the 1970s. Filmmakers like Robert Altman, Peter Yates, and Alan J. Pakula all helped reshape crime cinema during that decade by embracing ambiguity and moral complexity. Altman’s famously offbeat take on Raymond Chandler, The Long Goodbye, similarly presented a detective wandering through a disorienting modern world. Meanwhile, Pakula’s paranoia trilogy—particularly The Parallax View—captured the era’s growing distrust of institutions. Anderson’s film feels like a spiritual descendant of these works, trading traditional noir cynicism for countercultural melancholy.
Part of what makes Inherent Vice so distinctive is its ensemble cast and dreamlike atmosphere. Phoenix anchors the film with a loose, improvisational performance that perfectly captures Doc’s spaced-out but quietly perceptive nature. Surrounding him is a stellar ensemble that includes Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Benicio del Toro, and Martin Short. The film’s hazy vibe is further enhanced by a nostalgic soundtrack and a dreamy score from Jonny Greenwood.The result is a crime film that feels simultaneously whimsical and mournful—a goodbye letter to the fading idealism of the ’60s.
Inherent Vice helped redefine what modern neo-noir could look like. While many contemporary entries in the genre lean toward sleek procedural storytelling or brutal nihilism, Anderson’s film embraced confusion, humor, and atmosphere as narrative tools. Its influence can be seen in later crime stories that prioritize mood and character over strict plot mechanics. By resurrecting the loose, experimental spirit of 1970s detective films and filtering it through a modern lens, Anderson created something rare: a neo-noir that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. What once seemed like a strange detour in his career now reads as a quiet reinvention of the genre itself.
Inherent Vice is streaming on Prime Video in the US.
- Release Date
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January 9, 2015
- Runtime
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149 minutes
- Director
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Paul Thomas Anderson
- Writers
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Paul Thomas Anderson, Thomas Pynchon
- Producers
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Daniel Lupi, JoAnne Sellar
Sometimes growth shows up in the most unexpected moments — and sometimes it happens right in front of the internet. One familiar voice is pressing pause and taking a moment to reflect, opening up about where she’s been and how far she believes she’s come. Recently, B. Simone shared a heartfelt message with her supporters, and the tone alone had folks leaning in to hear what she had to say.
RELATED: Not Feeling It? Funny Marco Turns Down B. Simone After Awkward Prom Throwback (VIDEO)
B Simone Issues Public Apology In Emotional Clip
On Thursday, B. Simone took to social media and posted a clip filmed inside her ‘Let’s Try This Again’ studio — a cream-colored space that looked cozy and lived-in. Sitting in an off-white fuzzy chair, she wore a white shirt with black lettering across the chest, while a black, white, and oatmeal-colored throw blanket rested over her legs. Rocking her signature black hair with curls at the bottom, she spoke directly into the mic. B. Simone began the clip by saying, “I want to apologize. I want to publicly apologize to the internet. To God. To anybody that I offended. Anybody that I’ve hurt with my words. Maybe on the mic or maybe my opinions, or maybe me saying something out of…a response…instead of letting it truly marinate.”
B Simone Opens Up About Past Dark Moments
As the video continued, B. Simone reflected on how dark of a place she says she was in when she first launched her platform. She explained that part of the reason she started her podcast was to prove that she could rise as an underdog despite the challenges she was facing at the time. The conversation became emotional as she spoke about how her relationship with God has grown since then and how grateful she is for the support she’s received even during her lowest moments. She also told viewers that she feels she’s “so different” compared to who she was years ago.
Internet’s Split Over Her Emotional Message
Fans and critics alike quickly ran to the ‘Let’s Try This Again’ Instagram comment section to weigh in on the clip shared by B. Simone. Some users claimed the moment was simply karma, referencing past situations where they felt she didn’t treat her friends the best. Meanwhile, others said they were happy to see her taking accountability and focusing on growth, adding that nobody is perfect and she deserves a little grace.
One Instagram user, @cierraa.janae, said, “Glad to see u taking accountability“
This Instagram user @youloveerickaa added, “You need to make a direct apology to your friend. The internet don’t really matter.“
And, Instagram user @officialmiketeezy commented, “Love you sis! You got this 💯💪🏾”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @therealleirenee wrote, “Accountability 🙌🏾💯💯 that’s real 💜💪🏾”
While Instagram user @tsiyondire shared, “You’re human, its Ok to make a mistake!, We love yu B🧡”
Finally, Instagram user @burrodlb said, “Respect. Most people want to do this. 🙏🏾👏🏾. We all make mistakes.“
So, Who Exactly Is She Apologizing To?
Fans are left wondering exactly who B. Simone is trying to make amends with. While it’s unclear what prompted her apology, the internet is buzzing with speculation, weighing in from every angle. Just last year, her best friend, Shekinah, got real on the podcast about going through financial struggles alone — from losing her car to living on food stamps — while noticing B. Simone helped others but not her.
Furthermore, could B. Simone now want a man with a 9-to-5? Back in 2020, she made it crystal clear: her ideal man can’t be punching a clock. She wants a partner who’s grinding on his own terms, making his own bag, and keeping up with her hustle. “He can’t have a 9-5,” she said, adding that entrepreneurs should stick with other entrepreneurs — otherwise, they won’t get the lifestyle of being up at 3 a.m., chasing dreams while the world sleeps.
RELATED: B. Simone Addresses “Broke” Rumors Following Her Viral Claim Of Swapping Bloomingdale’s For H&M (WATCH)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Aww, Roomies! Carmelo Anthony turned a New York Knicks game into the cutest daddy-daughter date. The NBA All-Star champ made a rare pop-out with his daughter Genesis Harlo Anthony, and the internet can’t get enough of the twin vibes they brought courtside.
RELATED: Love To See It! La La & Carmelo Anthony Pop Out To Support Kiyan As He Drops Buckets For Syracuse University (VIDEOS)
Carmelo Anthony Pops Out With His Daughter & The Twin Energy Is Real!
Melo pulled up to a recent New York Knicks game, and all eyes didn’t stop at him; they were on Genesis, too. Video footage showed the duo walking out of Madison Square Garden in New York City, and the energy was on 1000. While young fans shouted Carmelo Anthony’s name from their seats, Genesis turned her head left and right, flashing a smile like, “Yeah, I know my daddy is HIM!” She even repped the city in a Knicks varsity jacket, showing love to the team Melo played for from 2011 to 2018. As for Anthony, he tried to greet fans but stayed locked in—fully in dad mode, and moving like Genesis’ personal security.
Peep the video here.
Social Media Can’t Get Enough Of Melo In Dad Mode
Social media users jumped straight into the comment section of the video of Carmelo and Genesis. Some folks admitted they were today years old when finding out that Melo had a daughter, while others couldn’t stop pointing out that Genesis is definitely his mini-me and twin.
Instagram user @tandrobdavis wrote, “That’s definitely his twin ❤️”
Instagram user @doublemjosh wrote, “Melo got his daughter outside🔥”
While Instagram user @trevorbrown187 wrote, “Good to see him with his daughter.”
Then, Instagram user @rello_1210 wrote, “I didn’t even know he had a daughter.”
Another Instagram user @showbroadwayallday wrote, “She look just like my boy 🔥”
Instagram user @indiah_queen wrote, “She said my dad is that guy 😍”
Then another Instagram user, @abbyrose4108, wrote, “She’s his twin for sure.”
Lastly, Instagram user @____ax__ wrote, “She’s so pretty ❤️”
Get To Know Melo’s Baby Girl, Genesis
If you’ve been out of the loop, Carmelo welcomed Genesis with Mia Burks in 2017. In addition to his baby girl, fans know that he also shares a son, Kiyan Anthony, with his ex-wife La La Anthony. Kiyan has been following in his dad’s footsteps by hooping for Syracuse University. While Genesis made a rare appearance with Melo recently, some fans had already seen and heard of her. Back in 2023, Melo gave her and Kiyan a shoutout during his official retirement announcement. After reflecting on his 19-season career, he devoted part of his speech to Kiyan and Genesis, who were both in the audience.
“Raising children in this world is revolutionary. I didn’t just want to be a basketball player; I wanted to be a model of redemption, of accountability, of love. My kids saved me. They gave me a reason to move past ego, past noise, past criticism. They remind me that legacy isn’t what you leave behind, but what you lift up.”
Genesis has also shown love for her dad’s iconic legacy. On her 7th birthday, she threw a full-on New York Knicks-themed party, rocking Melo’s #7 jersey. The tribute didn’t stop there; her party was called the Genesis Square Garden, according to PEOPLE, and was complete with orange and blue snacks to really represent her dad’s former team’s colors.
RELATED: Social Media Debates Whether Carmelo Anthony Should’ve Mentioned La La In Hall Of Fame Speech
What Do You Think Roomies?
Ever since NBC premiered Hopalong Cassidy in 1949, TV show creators have long been fixated on dramatizing the outlaw nature of the Old West, from gun-slinging outlaws to legendary lawmen who tried to bring order to the chaos of the land. The Wild West has always been an era that was fertile for telling engaging stories of good versus evil, bad guys versus lawman, and even outlaw versus outlaw, battling it out to see who reigned supreme in the wild frontier.
While Hopalong Cassidy was the first Western to premier on television, it wasn’t until ABC’s stab at a Western series, The Lone Ranger, elevated the genre into the pop culture zeitgeist, introducing new storylines that would be influential in Western shows to come. Not only that, but the shows that changed the trajectory of the Western genre itself have aged quite well over the years; and that got me thinking about doing a piece highlighting the Western shows that have aged like fine wine in a fancy restaurant. So, grab your cowboy hat, and read on as we give you the Western series that still look fresh even by today’s modern standards.
‘The Rifleman’ (1958–1963)
Back in the Golden Era of Westerns, ABC established itself as a network that dared to do different things within the Western genre that didn’t involve shootouts and bad versus good. Enter The Rifleman, created by Sam Peckinpah and Arnold Laven, which turned out to be a vastly different series than its predecessors were. Starring Chuck Connors, the series follows Lucas McCain (Connors), a former Union Army soldier who is a widower, raising his son, Mark (Johnny Crawford) on a ranch in the fictional North Fork.
Right from the pilot episode, one could see that The Rifleman was going to be a much different Western than fans were accustomed to. Instead of relying on tense gun fights, The Rifleman focused on the moral and emotional bond between Lucas and his son. This allowed the series to be more character-driven, something that viewers didn’t really see in other Western shows at the time. Focusing on the characters rather than the land they lived on allowed The Rifleman to age quite nicely over the years, to the point where the series felt like it could be released in the middle of 2026 and feel just as fresh as it did when it premiered on ABC in 1958.
‘The Virginian’ (1962–1971)
If you haven’t heard about The Virginian, don’t be embarrassed, as this is a Western series that has been forgotten when the topic of best shows of the genre is discussed. But don’t let its underrated status fool you. The Virginian is one of the genre’s best shows, especially one that has aged really, really well.
Based on the novel by Owen Wister, The Virginian follows the foreman of the Shiloh Ranch (James Drury) as they face societal challenges in the Old West. Much like The Rifleman, The Virginian focuses more on the characters than the action, with the series becoming somewhat of a Western soap opera that leaned into relationship drama. The Virginian was one of the first Westerns to be filmed in color, and by looking at more adult themes, it allowed the show to age better as time went along.
‘Have Gun – Will Travel’ (1957–1963)
Back in the 1950s, when the Western was truly getting going on television, most of the shows within the genre were generally lighthearted affairs that were safe for the entire family. That changed with Have Gun – Will Travel, which premiered on CBS in 1957 and is largely seen as the first Western that was fully aimed at adults. The series follows Paladin (Richard Boone), a gunfighter-for-hire who is quite different from the other gunslingers at the time.
Paladin is smart and sophisticated, which made him the perfect guy to solve the big problems that clients would come to him with. Have Gun – Will Travel certainly had its tense moments, but what makes this show stand out from its predecessors was the way it told its central premise. The series focused more on psychological storytelling, with Paladin using his smarts instead of brute strength to solve problems. In today’s Western landscape, you can see protagonists use their brainpower more than their shooting skills, which makes Have Gun – Will Travel a show that could easily fit in the modern era.
‘Bonanza’ (1959–1973)
You know you’re going to be in for a good time when you see the map burning on the screen. The iconic opening title card to the famed NBC Western series Bonanza was the cherry on top of a sundae that never melts. Created by David Dortort, the series follows the Cartwright family, who lived on the Ponderosa ranch near Lake Tahoe. While Bonanza is technically a Western, in some respects, it doesn’t follow the same tropes as its counterparts.
For starters, Bonanza was more moral and character driven. The series would often tackle social and emotional issues that were complex. While other Western shows focused on the rough and tumble West, Bonanza was basically a soap opera that just happened to be set in the Old West. The focus of moral and societal issues makes Bonanza feel a lot more relevant to a modern audience than a show such as The Lone Ranger, which was quickly dated after it went off the air. You can put on an episode of Bonanza today and feel like you’re watching a modern Western, because the show was made to feel just like it was.
‘Lonesome Dove’ (1989)
In 1985, author Larry McMurtry published his famed Western novel Lonesome Dove, and the book became an instant hit. It was also around this time that the Western genre on television and film began to take quite a dip in quality, and people were losing interest. So, CBS, in a gamble, adapted McMurtry’s novel into a miniseries in 1989, and the rest, as they say, is history. Lonesome Dove was not only a giant hit for CBS, but it also completely revitalized the Western genre.
Lonesome Dove is widely considered to be the modern Western series others inspired to be. With sensational performances from Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones, Lonesome Dove presented audiences with a gritty portrayal of the frontier, far removed from the romanticized version that was often portrayed in Western shows. The storytelling is hauntingly beautiful, the characters have a tremendous amount of depth, and the quality of the production was, and still is, simply unmatched. There isn’t an alternative reality where Lonesome Dove would age poorly.
‘Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman’ (1993–1998)
For a long time, Western shows were primarily driven by male leads, with women often in the background. That changed in 1993, when CBS debuted a new Western centered around a doctor named Dr. Michaela Quinn (Jane Seymour). Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman was quite the game changer for the Western genre. The show follows Dr. Quinn as she leaves Boston to search for adventure in the West. She then settles in Colorado Springs and opens up a practice there, treating all types of illnesses that plagued the rugged West.
Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman was a progressive show that often centered on themes such as social justice and women’s rights, both of which remain issues to this very day. These themes wouldn’t have stuck an emotional landing without a strong female lead, and Dr. Quinn was certainly that and then some. She was independent, compassionate, and determined to show the medical field of the 19th century that women could be compatible doctors as men were. But, above all else, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman was all about family, and the drama and heartwarming themes that centered around this made the show an extremely family-friendly affair. Looking back on the show, it’s hard to say that Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman aged poorly. It did the exact opposite, and if you were to show this series to someone who wasn’t born during the time the series aired, they would definitely believe that this was a show that was released in the 21st century.
‘Deadwood’ (2004–2006)
What can you say about HBO’s Deadwood that hasn’t already been said? This show is timeless. It’s a Western work of art. It’s the gold standard of the modern-day genre that hasn’t aged one bit. Created by David Milch, Deadwood centers on the town of Deadwood, South Dakota, and how the place grew from a camp into an actual town. While most Westerns, both historical and modern, were more character-driven, Deadwood took a markedly different approach, focusing instead on order, morality, and civilization, how the West became a tame place.
One thing that makes Deadwood stand out is its unique dialogue. The people of Deadwood don’t speak in the same Western tone as its predecessors. No, the dialogue within Deadwood is often poetic, even, dare we say it, Shakespearean in tone. If another person created this series, a Shakespearean Western would sound really weird; but this is David Milch, and the man knows how to write superior dialogue, and Deadwood was his magnum opus. Outside the splendid writing, Deadwood‘s performances and production quality are simply top-notch, with everything coming together to create the best modern Western series of our time, and one that has not, and will not, age.
During her visit, the co-anchor reportedly assured her colleagues that she will definitely be returning and thanked them for their continued support and prayers.
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Savannah Guthrie Confirms She Has ‘Every Intention Of Coming Back’ During ‘Today’ Visit
Per The Hollywood Reporter, Guthrie’s March 5 visit to the “Today” show set was filled with emotion, as the co-anchor saw the show’s staff for the first time since her mother Nancy Guthrie disappeared on February1.
During the unplanned visit with the show’s staff, Guthrie reportedly thanked them for “caring about my mom as much as I do,” among other kind words.
“I wanted you to know that I’m still standing, and I still have hope and I’m still me. I don’t know what version of me that will be, but it will be,” she continued.
Guthrie also used the impromptu meeting to confirm that she will indeed return to the show, as the investigation into her mother’s disappearance continues.
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“I have every intention of coming back. I don’t know how to come back, but I don’t know how not to. You’re my family and I would like to try,” Guthrie said, per the outlet.
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‘Today’ Meteorologist Dylan Dreyer Reportedly Led A Staff Prayer With Guthrie
In a show of support for Guthrie’s heart-breaking ordeal, Dreyer led the show’s staff in a group prayer that was said to be highly emotional.
“We’re here holding hands as a family, in a place where we don’t understand why this is happening. It is not too bold to ask God for the biggest miracles every day,” he said.
“It felt like the right moment for all of us,” Dreyer revealed during the broadcast on Friday, March 6. “When I feel helpless, I pray… We asked for that miracle.”
Fellow “Today” show anchor Carson Daly also shared how meaningful Guthrie’s visit was.
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“She came into the middle, no speech, spoke from the heart. Said the most perfect words you could ever imagine and looked every one of this family in the eyes,” Daly said on the show. “Yesterday was one of the most special days not just in our lives professionally but personally.”
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Guthrie Recently Visited The Set, But Her Return Date Has Not Been Confirmed
According to PEOPLE, on Thursday, March 5, Guthrie “stopped by the studio to be with and thank her ‘Today’ colleagues,” a show spokesperson said via statement, per the outlet.
Although her visit to the show does not mean that a return date for Guthrie has been set, she will reportedly be back on-air at some point.
“While she plans to return to the show on air, she remains focused right now supporting her family and working to help bring Nancy home,” the statement continued.
Her Set Visit Follows Her Decision To Leave The Arizona Search And Return To New York
After posting an Instagram video on February 25 announcing she was increasing the reward for her mother’s return to $1 million, Guthrie reportedly decided to leave Arizona, where her mother lives and disappeared, to return to her home base in New York.
According to the Daily Mail, an inside source shared the details behind the decision.
“She can’t stay in Arizona forever. Her kids and her life are in New York City,” the source told the outlet. “The family is coming to terms with the fact that this might take years.”
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Prior To Her Arizona Departure Guthrie Visited A Memorial For Her Mother
On Monday, March 2, Guthrie, her sister Annie, and her brother-in-law Tommaso were seen gathered outside a memorial in front of Nancy Guthrie’s Arizona home.
The family was photographed embracing each other as they laid flowers at the memorial for their mother. Per TMZ, other well-wishers also laid bouquets and notes at the memorial site.
Despite the investigation yielding no substantial results, both the FBI and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department remain optimistic they will bring Nancy Guthrie home.
Tyrone Covington, a U.S. Army veteran, has been sentenced after allegedly striking his girlfriend’s 8-year-old son, Josiyah Robinson, more than 100 times, beating him to death.
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U.S. Army Veteran Tyrone Covington Allegedly Struck Girlfriend’s 8-Year-Old Son More Than 100 Times, Beating Him To Death
According to Law & Crime, Tyrone Covington was moving with his girlfriend in October 2020 when she called the police to report that her son, Josiyah Robinson, had suffered a beating and was struggling to breathe before going unconscious. More specifically, Convington and his girlfriend were reportedly moving to a new home and transporting their items by car. This, when his girlfriend informed him that her son had locked her keys in the vehicle. Covington allegedly took his belt and started whipping the boy more than 100 times. Additionally, he allegedly forced the 8-year-old to “complete military exercises such as pushups, sit-ups, and jumping jacks.”
Ultimately, Josiyah Robinson was reportedly rushed to a local hospital, then flown to a children’s hospital. However, he passed away the day after.
U.S. Army Veteran Tyrone Covington Sentenced After Allegedly Striking Girlfriend’s 8-Year-Old Son More Than 100 Times, Beating Him To Death
According to the outlet, Tyrone Covington was convicted of manslaughter and aggravated child abuse in January. Then, on Monday, March 2, a judge sentenced him to 30 years behind bars. Per the outlet, Covington, who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, was initially charged with first-degree murder. However, the charge was lessened to manslaughter.
“When I stop, Mr. Covington, and think about how Josiyah spent the last hour of his life feeling fear, it makes me sick,” Circuit Judge Lyann Goudie reportedly told Covington during sentencing.
US Army veteran gets 30 years in prison for Brandon boy’s fatal beating https://t.co/paUyplikRl
— Tampa Bay Times (@TB_Times) March 3, 2026
Elsewhere In Cleveland, A Mother Is Making Headlines
Elsewhere, in Cleveland, Ohio, a 28-year-old mother named Aliyah Henderson has also made headlines for a jaw-dropping incident. As The Shade Room previously reported, Henderson has been accused of murdering two of her young daughters and stuffing their bodies inside suitcases. Their bodies were reportedly found on Monday, March 2.
RELATED: Prayers Up! Cleveland Mother Arrested & Charged After Remains Of Two Young Daughters Reportedly Found Stuffed In Suitcases
What Do You Think Roomies?
After Kevin Costner‘s dramatic exit from Yellowstone, his former costar Luke Grimes has been forthcoming about them falling out of contact.
Yellowstone, which premiered on Paramount in 2018, followed the fictional Dutton family, who own the largest ranch in Montana. Taylor Sheridan’s TV universe prospered for five seasons on Paramount Network before reported tension with Costner led to the actor’s exit from the show.
The series ultimately came to an end before expanding with spinoffs such as The Dutton Ranch and Marshals. While most of the cast have chosen not to address where they stand with Costner now, Grimes hasn’t shied away from those conversations.
“I haven’t talked to him since [he left]. It’s not a case of any hard feelings or anything. It’s just, he’s Kevin Costner,” Grimes told Men’s Health MH Flex in December 2024. “He’s a big deal. I do have his phone number — I just don’t feel like it’s my place to reach out. He can reach out to me if he wants to.”
Peacock Kevin Costner‘s Yellowstone departure came as a surprise to most of his costars — and not everyone has remained in touch with him since the drama. The western drama, which premiered in 2018, followed the conflicts along the shared border of a large cattle ranch, the Broken Rock Indian reservation and land developers. Costner […]
Costner reacted to Grimes’ comments at the time, telling reporters, “I’m not thinking about [the Yellowstone finale]. I don’t think I’ve given it any thoughts, we’ll just let it go.”
The Oscar winner also dodged a question about whether he is in touch with Grimes. “No. We are done talking,” he added.
Keep scrolling for Grimes’ brutally honest commentary:
Missing His Presence
After Kevin Costner’s character John Dutton was written out of Yellowstone, Luke Grimes spoke to People about the shift, sharing in November 2024, “He’s a big presence, man, guy’s an icon.”
He continued: “So not having him around to set felt a little different. But as always, I mean, we’re a big family now. It was just as special and hopefully, the fans will be able to connect with the story just as much.”
No Longer in Touch
“I haven’t talked to him since,” Luke Grimes told Men’s Health one month later about Kevin Costner’s departure. “It’s not a case of any hard feelings or anything. It’s just, he’s Kevin Costner. He’s a big deal. I do have his phone number — I just don’t feel like it’s my place to reach out. He can reach out to me if he wants to.”
Grimes noted that he didn’t end on bad terms with Costner, adding, “None of us saw it coming the way it did, and obviously there was news about possible blowups behind the scenes or whatever. But just like in life, man, these things happen, they happen fast, and they’re not predictable.”
Easier to Film
Luke Grimes was asked about his experience filming the fifth and final season of the hit Paramount Network drama during an interview with Esquire, to which he replied, “Hopefully everyone can see that it was time.”
The actor, who played Kayce Dutton, specifically mentioned Costner’s absence.
“To be really honest, there was a part of Kevin being gone that meant some of the conflict was gone,” Grimes admitted. “Obviously, it didn’t make it super fun to be around. Not pointing any fingers, but it was actually the easiest season we’ve filmed.”
Thrillers are often expected to be slow burns that carefully build suspense until everything explodes in the final act. That approach is pretty effective, and some of the greatest films in the genre follow these beats. However, the movies that people usually remember refuse to slow down at all, and what separates a good thriller from a great one is urgency.
When every scene feels like it matters, the audience barely gets a moment to breathe before the stakes escalate, and that’s part of the fun. To prove that, here are the 10 fastest-paced thriller movies of all time that will leave the viewers feeling like they were part of the action, instead of simply witnessing it.
10
‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015)
The Hateful Eight has to be Quentin Tarantino’s most underrated film. The Western mystery thriller is nearly three hours long and takes place mostly in one room, but the director turns that restraint into the story’s greatest strength. The narrative is set in 1877, a decade after the Civil War, and follows Bounty hunter John “The Hangman” Ruth (Kurt Russell), who is headed to Red Rock with his prisoner, Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh), whom he plans to see hanged. Along the way, he is forced to share a stagecoach with Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson), a Union veteran turned bounty hunter, and Chris Mannix (Walton Goggins), a man claiming to be Red Rock’s new sheriff with ties to the Confederacy.
A blizzard sends them into Minnie’s Haberdashery, where several other strangers are already waiting out the storm. Nobody trusts anyone, and Ruth’s immediate response is to try to control the room with threats and guns. Right off the bat, The Hateful Eight feels like a pressure cooker of tension where the audience can’t seem to trust anyone or anything. Characters introduce themselves, and the film immediately gives the audience reasons to doubt their stories. The story is relentless, and with the blizzard outside, there is absolutely no escape from the madness. The performances are obviously a huge part of why The Hateful Eight remains engaging till the very end and really sell the idea of these eight dangerous people being stuck together with their egos and grudges.
9
‘Heat’ (1995)
Heat is a masterpiece of a thriller that starts slow but picks up pace before the audience even realizes it. The film spends a lot of time building its characters and taking the viewers through routine police work, but it’s all structured like a chase that never fully stops. The story follows two professionals on opposite sides of the law. Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino) is an LAPD Robbery-Homicide detective who is so dedicated to his job that his personal life is falling apart. Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro) is a professional thief who tries to stay emotionally detached from just about everything.
Things take a turn when a car robbery goes wrong, thanks to McCauley’s recruit, Waingro (Kevin Gage), and Hanna starts closing in on him. From there, the film turns into a constant game of surveillance, counter-surveillance, planning, and close calls, with the cops and the two sides constantly adjusting to each other’s moves. Heat’s greatest strength is how naturally it shifts between these two worlds, and just when the audience feels settled, the story pulls the rug from under them. The whole thing feels like a miniseries with several plots converging together, like Hanna’s failing marriage or McCauley’s relationship with Eady (Amy Brenneman). Even with all these moving parts, though, the heart of the film is these two men who simply can’t coexist but also genuinely respect each other’s grit.
8
‘Max Mad: Fury Road’ (2015)
Mad Max: Fury Road is still the gold standard for a modern action thriller. The film is basically one long chase, but that’s the whole point. The film, directed by George Miller, is the fourth installment in the franchise and follows Tom Hardy as Max Rockatansky, a drifter who is captured by Immortan Joe’s cult-like army (Hugh Keays-Byrne). The story picks up when Joe’s trusted lieutenant, Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron), betrays him by smuggling his five wives out in a massive armored War Rig, which kicks off a relentless pursuit across the desert.
The premise is pretty simple, with Max getting caught in the middle of Furiosa’s plan. The film doesn’t really offer a lot of elaborate twists or complicated plotlines, and yet, it never stops feeling epic. Mad Max: Fury Road treats its action as a storytelling device where every explosion means something. Even in its quieter moments, the psychological tension never drops because Joe’s army is always somewhere on the horizon. Despite being packed with stunts, crashes, and elaborate combat sequences, the film never feels exhausting because of how fully immersed the viewer feels in the chaos.
7
‘Uncut Gems’ (2019)
Uncut Gems, directed by Josh and Benny Safdie, follows Howard Ratner (Adam Sandler), a New York Diamond District jeweler who is juggling a collapsing marriage with Dinah (Idina Menzel), a messy affair with Julia (Julia Fox), and a swarm of creditors led by his brother-in-law Arno (Eric Bogosian), who is tired of being patient with him. Now, the heart of the story is a 600-carat black opal smuggled from Ethiopia that Howard gets his hands on. However, when NBA star Kevin Garnett becomes obsessed with it, Howard sees a way to solve all his money problems in one move.
He lends Garnett the opal for a game and takes his championship ring as collateral. Howard then immediately pawns the ring and uses the cash to place a high-risk bet. This leads to a spiral where Howard keeps pushing his luck and lying just to buy himself enough time. The film is built around the logic of addiction, where Howard and the audience become convinced that the next move will wash away his last mistake. The narrative offers practically no time to dwell on the failures because Howard has to keep moving to survive. The best part about Uncut Gems is that it commits to its chaos. The film wants its audience to feel trapped inside the same relentless loop as the protagonist, and simulating that feeling so perfectly is what makes Uncut Gems a masterclass in fast-paced storytelling.
6
‘Speed’ (1994)
Speed is a ‘90s high-concept action thriller that sounds like a joke until one actually watches it. The film, directed by Jan de Bont, follows Keanu Reeves as Jack Traven, an LAPD officer who keeps stumbling into one problem after another. The film begins with Jack and his partner Harry (Jeff Daniels) stopping an elevator bombing that’s being orchestrated by the bitter ex-bomb squad cop Howard Payne (Dennis Hopper). However, that’s only the beginning, as Payne fakes his death and executes his masterplan by rigging a city bus to explode when it dips below 50 mph. From that moment, the stakes in Speed only rise.
The plot is fast-paced but relatively easy to follow as Jack tries everything in his power to keep the passengers calm and work with the police. However, there is absolutely no respite here because Payne keeps throwing one problem at him after another. What works so well about Speed is that it sticks to its central plot and keeps building tension around it. Every solution immediately creates a new problem, and the whole thing feels like an impossible race against time. This constant escalation could have easily leaned into gimmick territory, but with a tight plot, it makes for one of the most exhilarating watches of the last 50 years.
5
‘Die Hard’ (1988)
Die Hard is essential viewing for anyone who appreciates the art of a timeless thriller. The film, directed by John McTiernan, follows New York police detective John McClane (Bruce Willis), who travels to Los Angeles on Christmas Eve hoping to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia). However, he walks straight into a hostage situation when a group of heavily armed criminals led by the calm and calculating Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) takes over Nakatomi Plaza during a company party. McClane manages to slip away while the rest of the employees are being rounded up, and that’s when he begins sabotaging Hans’s operation piece by piece. Once the takeover begins, though, the film refuses to let its characters breathe for a single second. McClane has no time to celebrate his small victories because whatever he does seems to lead to extreme consequences.
Willis brings an extremely honest sense of exhaustion to his character, which makes every close call feel all the more real. The pacing of the film works because the audience genuinely believes that he might fail, which was a departure from the usual action flicks of the time, where the hero could do no wrong. Die Hard has its fair share of brilliant action sequences, but much of the film’s tension comes from the psychological battle between McClane and Gruber as they constantly try to outsmart each other. This balance between spectacle and genuine character work is what made Die Hard one of the defining films of the ’90s and the blueprint for what an action thriller should be.
4
‘Snowpiercer’ (2013)
Snowpiercer is one of the most unique thrillers of the 2010s, which uses the familiar premise of a single location to drive an important point home. The film, directed by Bong Joon Ho in his English-language debut, takes place after all of Earth is frozen and the last of humanity lives aboard a massive train that has been circling the globe for 17 years without ever stopping. Inside the train, society has rebuilt itself and created a strict class division where the wealthy live comfortably in the front cars while the poor passengers are crammed into the tail compartments that are under constant surveillance and abuse.
The story follows Curtis Everett (Chris Evans), a reluctant rebel leader who fights his way forward through the train to confront the mysterious engineer (Ed Harris), who controls this entire social order. Every train car introduces a new obstacle, and this constant escalation of danger gives the film its relentless momentum. The further the rebels move, the clearer it becomes how deeply people in the train have been conditioned to worship Wilford and accept their assigned place. This psychological and social angle adds to the film’s sense of urgency. Neither the characters nor the audience knows what the next car will reveal, and the unpredictability of it all makes Snowpiercer a biting thriller that delivers one of the most intriguing endings in modern sci-fi cinema.
3
‘I Saw The Devil’ (2010)
I Saw The Devil is a visceral thriller that is not easy to watch by any means. However, its intensity is what makes it unforgettable. The South Korean revenge film follows Kim Soo-hyun (Lee Byung-hun), an elite National Intelligence Service agent, whose fiancée is murdered by Jang Kyung-chul (Choi Min-sik), a sadistic serial killer who targets women at random. Soo-hyun quickly tracks the killer down, but instead of killing him, he begins a relentless cat-and-mouse game where he repeatedly hunts the criminal down, tortures him, and lets him go just to repeat the cycle all over again.
The power dynamics are especially interesting here because Kyung-chil continues committing his horrific crimes while trying to escape Soo-hyun’s wrath. The plot is pretty simple, but every encounter between the two men grows more intense, violent, and personal. I Saw The Devil keeps pushing its characters toward total moral collapse as revenge consumes both of them. The film is extremely unsettling, but it’s a true thriller driven by pure adrenaline.
2
‘Taken’ (2008)
Taken begins with a relatively simple concept that escalates into a high-stakes drama like no other. The film follows Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson), a retired CIA operative whose teenage daughter Kim (Maggie Grace) is kidnapped by a human trafficking ring during a trip to Paris. During a frantic phone call, Bryan hears the abduction happen in real time, and that kicks off his journey of tracking Kim down and seeking revenge. However, the catch is that he only has 96 hours before his daughter disappears into a system where victims are almost never recovered. Taken has a runtime of 90 minutes, but the plot moves with remarkable efficiency. Brian flies to Paris and starts following every clue he can find to tear through the criminal network that took his daughter.
Each lead pushes him deeper into the city’s underworld, and the film wastes absolutely no time on exposition. Instead, it trusts the audience to follow along. There are no complicated side plots to slow things down, which also means that Taken features constant bursts of violence that create the feeling that Bryan is always one step away from losing his daughter for good. Neeson’s performance is a huge part of why the film’s brutal pacing works, and his character’s determination is what drives the story, even in its most devastating moments. Despite all its intense action, Taken remains grounded in a complex yet heartwarming father-daughter relationship, which is pretty rare for the thriller genre.
1
‘The Bourne Ultimatum’ (2007)
The Bourne Ultimatum is hands down one of the greatest action thrillers ever made. The film is the final chapter in Jason Bourne’s (Matt Damon) story as he continues searching for the truth about his past. Things escalate when Bourne learns that a journalist has uncovered information about a secret CIA program connected to him. Their meeting takes a turn for the worse when the organization intervenes, and Bourne has to go on the run. It’s incredible how every scene in the film serves a purpose, which means that the narrative rarely slows down. Even dialogue-heavy moments feel intense because they are either happening under extreme surveillance or setting the stage for more violence to come.
The Bourne Ultimatum feels almost documentary-like with its famous handheld camerawork and intense editing. Bourne himself isn’t the traditional hero who wants to dominate situations; he is constantly just reacting to things happening around him and finding ways to escape. The Bourne Ultimatum doesn’t feature a lot of explosions and high-octane action sequences because the film’s pace comes from its clear stakes and sharp direction.
The Bourne Ultimatum
- Release Date
-
August 3, 2007
- Runtime
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115 minutes
- Director
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Paul Greengrass
- Writers
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Tony Gilroy, George Nolfi, Scott Z. Burns, Robert Ludlum
In today’s world, where stress and chaos run rampant, it’s super easy to feel like you’re living and working in a world full of idiots, and you wouldn’t be alone. That’s the premise of Fisk, a stellar 3-part sitcom—one of the best of all time—created by Australia’s very own Kitty Flanagan, who also stars in the show’s lead role.
Seasons 1 and 2 of what is pretty much the most hysterical, ridiculously relatable workplace comedy ever arrived on Netflix in 2023, just 2 short years after its Australian premiere. Its wider international release quickly found a new audience and left them not just wanting but also craving more of everything about the sitcom’s titular character, her attitude, and the way she navigates living and working in a most absurd modern-day world. The show’s 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes proves that Fisk is officially the perfect laugh-out-loud weekend binge you didn’t know you needed.
‘Fisk’ Playfully Examines Navigating the Absurdity of Life and the Stupidity of People
As one of the best international TV shows, Fisk is an Australian workplace comedy that you’ll find yourself watching over and over again. Its titular character, Helen Tudor-Fisk (Flanagan), has had it with people and their blatant stupidity. She’s not a fan at all, and it shows in nearly every single one of her interactions, regardless of whether they’re with clients, co-workers, or her father and his husband, whom she hilariously likens to “a couple of geriatric carjackers who forgot what they’re doing.”
A high-end contracts lawyer in Sydney, Helen’s life is great until her husband runs off with an older woman. In the wake of the stress, she loses her patience and snaps at a client, then is subsequently fired from her job. Forced to return to her hometown of Melbourne, she sets herself up with an employment agency, hoping to land a job that doesn’t involve a lot of client interaction. As the world’s biggest cynic, her appearance and desire to blend into the background reflect her mood and outlook: drab, oversized, and punctuated with black combat boots and unkempt hair. When she winds up working a job at a small, low-rent wills-and-probate firm full of quirky co-workers, her mouth gets her banned from the downstairs coffee shop on the first day, and she winds up with what proves to be one of her most absurd legal cases ever.
To give you a taste of what you’re in for, the case involves a woman who wants to insert a clause into her mother’s will demanding that her brother, who makes a living painting art with his manhood, get a vasectomy if he wants to see any inheritance. Helen tries in every way to explain to her client why that’s illegal, but when the client continues to insinuate that she doesn’t understand why she can’t have what she wants, Helen snaps, rolls up the contract like a megaphone, and loudly repeats herself. It’s Fisk’s first rib-tickling moment that not only gives audiences a deeper glimpse into who Helen is but also helps to reinforce the tone of the satirical TV show and its presentation of modern-day absurdities.
‘Fisk’ Is Stellar, Audiences Love It, and Rotten Tomatoes Proves It
Though the stellar sitcom has no official critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, it does have a slamming 96% audience score. Audiences love Fisk for its dry, deadpan humor, and they frequently compare the show to a more wholesome, Australian version of The Office. They also adore its relatable commentary on living and working in a ridiculous world littered with stupid people.
Fans on Reddit have frequently described the show as “comfort viewing” and “comedy gold,” thanks to its refreshing take on formulaic sitcoms. They also love that Fisk finds colossal humor in the most mundane, everyday situations as well as in its flawed yet likable characters. It’s witty and fast-paced, with comedic timing that will incessantly tickle the funny bone of quick thinkers. The running gags are funny but not overdone, and Helen’s blunt, low-stakes humor is a welcome departure from typical, over-the-top sitcom protagonists. Moreover, Fisk offers a lighthearted alternative to the chaotic modern comedies of today, and it tops everything off with a stellar Aussie twist on British wit.
In addition to its smart, observational, anti-office humor, the show features a perfectly crafted ensemble of oddball characters. Roz (Julia Zemiro) is a dominant, passive-aggressive mediator in control of the entire office, Ray (Marty Sheargold) is a flamboyant, slightly incompetent principal solicitor, and George (Aaron Chen) is the endearingly awkward receptionist and office “webmaster.” There’s certainly no shortage of comedy in this hidden gem sitcom.
If you’re looking for something ridiculously low-key and cozy to watch that’s also unusual, extremely well-written and performed, with no filler content, and that gets better with each episode, settle in for a laugh-out-loud weekend binge with Fisk. The 3-part sitcom consists of six episodes per season, and all are currently available to stream on Netflix.
- Release Date
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March 17, 2021
- Directors
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Kitty Flanagan, Tom Peterson
- Writers
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Kitty Flanagan, Penny Flanagan
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