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Some of Hollywood’s greatest movies have been so good that they’ve welcomed the invitation of furthering the story or characters through more films. But overcoming the sequel curse is not always easy. Then, those who do triumph get the rare opportunity to expand into a trilogy, forging a legacy in the process. We’re here to celebrate ten of the greatest trilogies, each amazing from start to finish.
Whether cohesive trilogies or three films that make up a thematic trilogy, these are some of the best of the best. From three-part adaptations of classic novels to reboots of beloved franchises, from newfound science fiction adventures to superhero blockbusters, these trilogies have had a massive impact on cinema and pop culture as a whole. How many have you seen and which will you be watching this weekend?
Passion projects can either result in a complete masterpiece or become a devastating pretentious pet piece. Fortunately for James Cameron, his dream film was the former. It was so good, it launched a franchise. Now three films deep, Avatar was a game-changing cinematic wonder. The trilogy follows former Marine Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and his Na’vi family as they protect the lush moon of Pandora from a colonizing human megacorporation. The epic sci-fi story explores themes of environmentalism, indigenous survival, and family unity across different Pandoran ecosystems. A masterpiece in movie technology and expansive world-building, Avatar transported audiences to an unmatched, immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling.
Though some call the first film’s story derivative, the old-fashioned storytelling style made the science fiction themes more accessible. By allowing an easy narrative to take precedence, it ensures the dazzling visuals remain at the forefront. Pandora is a mesmerizing world that one might think is only attainable by imagination, but thanks to Disney, we can visit the wondrous locale. It’s part of why the allure of the second and third films was there. The trilogy’s expansive lore and mythology of Pandora is the franchise’s greatest asset. Introducing new factions like the ocean-dwelling Metkayina clan and the fire-wielding Ash People gives further color to the story. At its core, the trilogy is about family. As your journey with Jake and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) unfolds, we watch them fight to protect their children, who then have their own coming-of-age tales. The emotional core of the story matures through each film, anchoring the heavy CGI in raw human emotion. Avatar is a rewarding franchise the more it evolves.
What could have become a hokey science-fiction comedy evolved into an iconic trilogy that helped define the ‘80s. Created by Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, the Back to the Future trilogy follows teenager Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and eccentric scientist Dr. Emmett “Doc” Brown (Christopher Lloyd), who use a modified DeLorean time machine to travel through different eras—the past, present, and future—to fix fractured timelines and ensure their own existence. Seamlessly balances high-concept time travel with effortless storytelling, unforgettable character chemistry, and brilliant, interlocking scripts. Back to the Future is a nostalgia-driven adventure that made sci-fi family-friendly. Back to the Future is wholesome entertainment with universal themes, ranging from family to destiny and the generation gap in between.
Time travel tales are often bogged down by complicated paradoxes, overly complicated plot points, and nonsensical decisions. Not in Back to the Future. By keeping things simple, the franchise allows the adventure to remain the prime focus. The first film is one of the most intricately constructed scripts in which tiny details or throwaway lines in the beginning pay off by the end. It was with that care that audiences were eager to see Matty and Doc went next. From a dark reality present to the Old West, no matter where the journey headed, it was handled with care. One might believe the heart of rock and roll was the soul of the franchise, but it was actually the ever-growing chemistry of its two leads. Fox and Lloyd are simply irreplaceable. They may be three individual films, but together, they create the perfect trilogy.
Call it the Cornetto Trilogy or Three Flavours Cornetto or the Blood and Ice Cream Trilogy, but whatever you refer to it as, you know it’s absolutely amazing. The brainchild of director Edgar Wright and star Simon Pegg, the three British comedies defined funny at the dawn of the 21st century. Comprised of three films that do not share a connected storyline or universe, the trilogy functions as thematic companions. Shaun of the Dead, a zombie horror comedy, Hot Fuzz, a buddy cop action flick, and The World’s End, a sci-fi alien invasion film, combined to reinvent the faces and humor of the future. They work as three standalone films, but they share razor-sharp visual comedy, emotional depth, and brilliant continuity, all thanks to the different flavors of Cornetto ice cream.
Each movie takes viewers on unique adventures across three distinct genres, all led by Pegg, Nick Frost, and a rotating cast of core stars, including Bill Nighy, Martin Freeman, and Paddy Considine. Under the watchful eye of Wright, driving the action, he uses kinetic, rapid-fire editing, creative transitions, and visual foreshadowing that make every frame monumental. It’s so smart, the trilogy is a rare form of rewarding rewatchability. In case you didn’t know, the Cornetto color reflects the story: Strawberry or red for gore and zombies, Classico or blue for cops, and Mint or green for aliens. The trilogy may not always be in the conversation with the great trilogies because it consists of three separate films. It’s unfair because they work just as well. Watch in release order or completely random; they are amazing in any way you choose. Just pair it with some ice cream.
The truth is, had the first Iron Man film not been a blockbuster success, the subsequent films would never have come to fruition. The Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn’t have even been a thing. But thanks to the brilliance of the three films under the Iron Man umbrella, the future of the superhero genre changed forever. The Iron Man trilogy follows the evolution of Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), a billionaire industrialist who transforms from a self-absorbed arms dealer into the heroic armored Avenger, Iron Man. Throughout the series, he battles a range of high-tech villains, struggles with personal trauma rooted in his actions, and learns that his true power comes from his ingenuity rather than his suits. Perhaps the greatest arc of any superhero in cinema, the three Iron Man films are action-packed adventures that perfectly pair the actor with the hero.
One of the most remarkable parts of the greater MCU is just how beloved Iron Man became thanks to Downey Jr. Before the trilogy, the fan-favorite Marvel character in the larger IP tended to be Spider-Man, the X-Men, or Captain America. Then Downey Jr. arrived, an actor looking for his own redemption, eased into a character searching for the same. It’s a pitch-perfect performance that flourishes in each subsequent solo film. From his start as an arrogant, self-centered billionaire, his experience makes him a deeply responsible and selfless hero. He becomes an inspiration and a role model. The Iron Man trilogy thrives thanks to the supporting characters, including Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau) and Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and its iconic villains, namely Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges), Justin Hammer (Sam Rockwell), and Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce), among others. Iron Man became the blueprint that launched the MCU and every solo hero under its umbrella.
The Star Wars franchise would not be as vast and expansive as it is today had it not been for the original trilogy of films. The fourth, fifth, and sixth parts of the overall Skywalker Saga, the original Star Wars, were a game-changing pop culture phenomenon that made space operas not only cool, but the gold standard in science fiction storytelling. Brought to life by the visionary George Lucas, Star Wars takes audiences to a galaxy far, far away, where the Rebel Alliance fights to overthrow the tyrannical Galactic Empire. At its core, it is a coming-of-age story and a tale of redemption centered on farm boy Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) as he learns the mystical ways of the Jedi to confront the Sith Lord Darth Vader (James Earl Jones). A cinematic masterpiece, the original Star Wars trilogy is flawless in execution thanks to its character-driven narratives, groundbreaking cinema technology, and one of the greatest villain evolutions.
With three Star Wars trilogies in existence, three different generations were each given a chance to experience their trilogy in theaters as their first. Those of us born to the prequel or sequel trilogy are jealous of those who were alive during A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. Together, they provide the ultimate hero’s journey: a farm boy dreaming of greatness who faces devastating failure and identity-shattering truths only to return as a true Jedi to redeem his father. Along the way, Star Wars introduces a plethora of iconic characters, including Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness), and Yoda (Frank Oz). Through their witty banter, evolving romances, and loyal friendships, the fantastical universe is grounded in genuine heart. Star Wars was an innovator in tangible, practical effects. Paired with incredible original sound design and an iconic score by John Williams, Star Wars was a world we loved to watch grow. A foundational pillar of pop culture, Star Wars revolutionized the movie trilogy forever.
Not every great trilogy must be rooted in sci-fi, action, or crime. Some are all about romance. Such is the case for Richard Linklater’s Before Trilogy. The critically acclaimed series follows the evolving relationship of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy) over 18 years. In Before Sunrise, a young American man, Jesse, and a French woman, Céline, meet on a train in Vienna and impulsively decide to spend one night walking, exploring, and talking. They part ways the next morning, promising to meet again. In Before Sunset, set nine years later in Paris, Jesse is on a book tour, and the two unexpectedly reunite. They discuss missed opportunities and grapple with the lingering romantic tension of their first encounter. In Before Midnight, set another nine years later, this time in Greece, Jesse and Céline are a long-term, unmarried couple on vacation with twin daughters. They explore the gritty realities, sacrifices, and conflicts of domestic and parental life. famous for being shot and released in nine-year intervals, the Before Trilogy is an intimate romance that captures a real-time, honest relationship.
The Before Trilogy is raw brilliance that strips away artificial movie tropes in favor of brilliant, deeply authentic conversations. Linklater drives the narratives through naturalistic walk-and-talk conversations about love, philosophy, and life, making viewers feel like they are eavesdropping on a real couple. Just as you’re watching two elite actors grow and age on screen. Hawke and Delpy are mesmerizing in their parts. They are the heart and soul of the trilogy. Each film approaches the relationship through different lenses. From the fantasy and magic of a new connection to missed opportunities through the gritty, tiring, and beautiful reality of long-term intimacy. It’s truly a sweet and beautiful thing. The Before Trilogy chronicles high-intensity intimacy as no other film series has ever done.
There were four Batman films in the late ‘80s and ‘90s that gave us the chance to see the Caped Crusader on the big screen. But when the fourth film, starring the third actor, flopped, it seemed the experiment was over. Then Christopher Nolan swooped in and recalibrated Bruce Wayne as The Dark Knight, giving us the definitive iteration for the 21st century. The Dark Knight trilogy offers a gritty, realistic reimagining of the DC Comics superhero, following billionaire Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) as he transforms into a symbol of hope, descends into the shadows, and ultimately redeems himself. The Dark Knight trilogy takes the DC comic tropes and strips them bare, providing three distinct films that ground Gotham City in a colossal crime empire where its only hope is a hero with no superpowers, but intellect, elite training, and sheer willpower.
Across the three films—Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Knight Rises—Nolan crafts a visionary narrative that ultimately becomes a deeply personal saga in which the titular character channels trauma into a journey toward heroism. Rather than tackling the heavy battles of gods and aliens, most superhero films explore The Dark Knight trilogy, which revolves around morality, corruption, and the friction between the law and vigilantism as three crime thrillers. The trilogy is greatly helped by the cavalcade of villains who pass through the films, including Ra’s al Ghul (Liam Neeson), Scarecrow (Cillian Murphy), Bane (Tom Hardy), and, of course, the Joker (Heath Ledger). Nolan single-handedly elevated the superhero genre through his groundbreaking filmmaking, demanding practical effects and realistic stunts wherever possible, creating a jaw-dropping, visceral experience. It’s going to take a lot for any Batman trilogy to top the brilliance of The Dark Knight.
There are very few films considered definitive cinema quite like The Godfather trilogy. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by Mario Puzo, the epic Shakespearean-like tragedy traces the rise, corruption, and slow decay of the Corleone crime family. At its core, the saga examines the cost of absolute power, the illusion of the American Dream, and how the pursuit of safety can ultimately destroy the very family one tries to protect. Chronicling the Corleone clan from the 1900s through the ‘80s, The Godfather trilogy became the blueprint for mafia movies forever. There used to be stereotypes about gangster films. These films transcended the standard, offering a truly powerful and enduring narrative.
The films use the mafia as a framework to explore the destructive nature of ambition and wealth beyond the bloodshed and murder. Right from the start, “I believe in America,” set the tone, subverting the ideals of the American Dream. Within, the film comments richly on immigration, loyalty, betrayal, and how absolute power ultimately devours a man. Al Pacino’s Michael Corleone is one of the most fascinating and chilling characters in cinema history. It’s all thanks to Pacino’s mesmerizing performance. Save perhaps the MCU, no film franchise has boasted a brilliant elite ensemble quite like The Godfather. Alongside Pacino, you get to watch the likes of Diane Keaton, Marlon Brandon, Robert De Niro, James Caan, Sofia Coppola, Andy Garcia, Bridget Fonda, among others. With seamless storytelling and extraordinary cinematography, The Godfather trilogy is the epitome of great filmmaking.
There is no other high fantasy epic that will ever achieve the highest acclaim that The Lord of the Rings found. Lifted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel, the Peter Jackson-directed films follows the hobbit Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) on a quest to destroy the One Ring—a corrupting artifact of the Dark Lord Sauron. Accompanied by a loyal fellowship, Frodo must navigate the treacherous lands of Middle-earth to cast the ring into the fires of Mount Doom. Broken into three larger-than-life films—The Fellowship of the Rings, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King—the trilogy pairs immense passion and meticulous craftsmanship with timeless storytelling for a celebration of a brilliant visionary.
The story was an enthralling adventure that pushed the trilogy storytelling device. They can be individual tales, but they are truly three films that tell one epic story. The films are rooted richly in humanity through the universal themes of friendship, hope, loyalty, duty, and sacrifice. The audience may be watching elves, dwarves, and hobbits, but through their actions, they are as profoundly human. Epic fantasy may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you simply cannot deny how captivating the scope that the film presented. Jackson’s timeless visuals gave the trilogy a historically grounded Middle-earth we all wished we could visit. Jackson captured the source material with ease. Perhaps the most important element of filmmaking was shooting all three films back-to-back, allowing the arc to be cohesive like one grand film. With so many awards to its name, The Lord of the Rings trilogy is the blueprint for greatness.
In 1968, the very first film adaptation of Planet of the Apes rocked the world, establishing a distinct visual style for the franchise. Through a series of sequels, there was a fascination and adoration for the sci-fi world depicted in the films. Then, in 2001, Tim Burton took his turn at reviving the franchise, and unfortunately, it was botched on arrival. Ten years later, a brand-new interpretation arrived through quite a daring risk: the apes were not humanoid beings; they were actual apes. With the aid of impeccable CGI, it became the recipe for success, giving birth to the definitive trilogy of the franchise. In the reboot trilogy, the epic sci-fi saga explores the dawn of a new intelligent ape civilization. It tells the story of Caesar (Andy Serkis), a genetically evolved chimpanzee, who transitions from a captive pet to a revolutionary leader who guides his species to freedom as humanity collapses. A profound, character-driven story, the trilogy captured the allure of the original while giving it a dynamic, fresh perspective that made the apes nuanced, emotional beings.
Consisting of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and War for the Planet of the Apes, the saga masterfully balanced groundbreaking CGI with a deeply moving story. Caesar’s emotional journey was crucial to its brilliance. Using his evolution from a curious lab subject to a mythic leader allowed the narrative to explore themes of family, morality, and the clash of civilizations. Before, the apes were gimmicks. Here, the trilogy presented both the apes and humans with deeply flawed, understandable motivations. The ensuing conflict stemmed from tragic misunderstandings and survival instincts rather than black-and-white good-vs.-evil tropes. There was brilliant evolution in the story. The first film tackled a grounded, scientific origin story. The second took on the fragility of peace and political betrayal. The conclusion was a sweeping epic of biblical proportions. With Serkis anchoring the projects with advanced motion-capture technology, you get to see authentic, nuanced emotional performances from the apes who convey pain and empathy without uttering a single word. The reboot trilogy is more than just a spectacle; it’s a cinematic revolution.
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Gisele Bündchen just reminded Us that the most flattering swimsuits don’t have to rely on flashy prints or complicated cutouts. While enjoying a beach day in Costa Rica, the supermodel reached for a timeless black bikini that highlighted exactly why the classic silhouette has remained a favorite for decades. Clean lines, adjustable ties and a simple fit never go out of style — or stop looking good.
Bündchen was spotted strolling along the beach in Costa Rica wearing the minimalist black two-piece, proving that sometimes less really is more. The halter triangle top offers customizable support, while the tie-side bottoms let you adjust the fit to your body, making the silhouette especially flattering at any age. While her exact bikini has since sold out, we found a remarkably similar version for just $26 on Amazon.
Get the Suvimuga Halter Triangle Bikini Set for $26 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
The Suvimuga Halter Triangle Bikini Set captures the same effortless, beach-ready vibe as Bündchen’s look without the designer price tag. Available in classic black as well as orange, teal, pink and several other colors, the Amazon bestseller has already been purchased more than 1,000 times in the past month.
Beyond its timeless design, the bikini is packed with thoughtful details that help create a flattering fit. The halter top ties at the neck and back for easy adjustments, removable padded cups let you customize the coverage and the Brazilian-cut bottoms feature subtle ruching in the back for a sculpted look. The smooth, stretchy fabric is also designed to move comfortably whether you’re swimming, sunbathing or walking along the shore.
The bikini has also earned more than 9,500 five-star ratings from shoppers. One reviewer called it “surprisingly flattering,” adding that it makes their “chest look great” and the ruching is especially great for “fuller bottomed girls.” Another buyer praised its “classic, simple look,” saying it’s “minimal but still feels secure enough for lounging by the pool or walking along the beach.”
The beauty of a classic black bikini is that it never chases trends. Instead, it celebrates natural curves with an adjustable fit, timeless color and clean silhouette that feels just as stylish in your 20s as it does decades later. If Bündchen’s latest beach look is any indication, this is one swimwear staple that’s worth keeping in your rotation.
Get the Suvimuga Halter Triangle Bikini Set for $26 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more from Suvimuga here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
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We’re already excited for denim season, and clearly, Nordstrom is, too. The retailer is slashing prices on popular jeans during the big Anniversary Sale, and it’s helping Us stock up on our favorite brands at Black Friday-level lows. Seriously, we did a double take when looking at these prices.
Whether you’re searching for staple jeans for errands, brunches or travel, you’ll find your dream pair marked down below. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale will run from now through August 9, but given that denim is a piping-hot category, we doubt sizes will stay in stock. If you see yours, grab it and run!
1. Take up to 34% Off Madewell
Our Pick: Ditch buttons and zippers for these comfy tie-waist jeans. Katie Holmes wears the label, so snag a top and tote while you’re at it.
Check out all Madewell deals included in the sale here!
2. Take up to 39% Off Wit & Wisdom
Our Pick: Everyone needs go-to black jeans and these sleek pants are yours. Not only do the pants have a subtle bootcut shape, but they also feature a cropped hem with raw fraying.
Check out all Wit & Wisdom deals included in the sale here!
3. Take up to 55% Off Free People
Our Pick: Boho and baggy, these retro rolled jeans add character to any outfit. The pale, faded wash stuns with light and dark tops alike.
Check out all Free People deals included in the sale here!
4. Take up to 35% Off Paige
Our Pick: White jeans are incredibly charming, especially these wide-leg wonders from Paige. They’re so chic, you can wear them past Labor Day.
Check out all Paige deals included in the sale here!
5. Take up to 44% Off Levi’s
Our Pick: Nail the California-cool aesthetic with these ’90s-inspired dad jeans that hold their shape, go with everything and flatter your bootie.
Check out all Levi’s deals included in the sale here!
6. Take up to 36% Off Reformation
Our Pick: Taylor Swift wears Reformation, so she might be eyeing this expensive-looking wide-leg pair, like Us. With such a rich blue hue, who wouldn’t?
Check out all Reformation deals included in the sale here!
7. Take up to 40% Off Avec Les Filles
Our Pick: Everything about these structured cotton jeans is chic, including the built-in denim belt, artsy back pockets and dramatic distressed details.
Check out all Avec Les Filles deals included in the sale here!
8. Take up to 34% Off Kut from the Kloth
Our Pick: Calling all fun-size friends! These timeless mid-rise jeans come in regular and petite sizes, so you can skip the tailor entirely.
Check out all Kut from the Kloth deals included in the sale here!
9. Take up to 37% Off BP.
Our Pick: If you’ve wanted to experiment with the low-rise trend, let this be your sign. Shoppers say these baggy pants remind them of the ’90s!
Check out all BP. deals included in the sale here!
10. Take up to 33% Off AG
Our Pick: Straight-leg jeans are a huge deal in Europe. To dress like a Parisian rich mom, all you need are these slim AG jeans — no flight involved.
Check out all AG deals included in the sale here!
11. Take up to 34% Off Nydj
Our Pick: Bootcut pants might sound bold, but these tailored-looking jeans lean gently into the silhouette. They pair especially well with heeled sandals and booties.
Check out all Nydj deals included in the sale here!
12. Take up to 25% Off PacSun
Our Pick: Look effortlessly stylish in these super wide-leg pants that don’t pill or fade. They don’t have much stretch, but the loose silhouette makes up for it. Bonus: We adore the cuffed hems.
Check out all PacSun deals included in the sale here!
13. Take up to 25% Off Cotton On
Our Pick: Curvy gals rave about these classic straight-leg jeans that hug in all the right places. A happy shopper said they “fit like a glove!”
Check out all Cotton On deals included in the sale here!
As important as first impressions are, when it comes to movies, it’s typically last impressions that matter most. An ending can make or break a film altogether. Whereas an unpredictable, satisfying, and emotionally compelling conclusion can cement a movie in the annals of film history, one that misses the mark can make even the greatest of films lose an awful lot of their power right before the finish line.
Throughout the 1990s, filmmakers like David Fincher and Frank Darabont seemed to crack the code on how to make a film ending that sticks in the audience’s memory forever. Whether it’s a sweet animated movie coming to a fittingly crowd-pleasing conclusion, a heart-rending drama injecting one last bit of hope into the audience, or a crime masterpiece giving its protagonist their due, the best movie endings of the ’90s are among the best in the history of cinema.
There are spoilers ahead!
The 1990s were the peak of the Disney Renaissance, a period during which the House of Mouse produced several of their greatest animated films to date. It’s ironic that The Lion King, which they thought would be unsuccessful compared to that same year’s Pocahontas, ended up becoming their most widely acclaimed and beloved animated classic of all time.
From one of the best opening movie shots of the 20th century until one of the best endings in the history of animated cinema, The Lion King remains one of the most perfect family films ever created. Having taken his throne back from the treasonous Scar, Simba welcomes a cub with Nala to continue the Circle of Life. Visually gorgeous and paired with the wonderful music, this ending is probably the best in Disney’s catalog.
Built on one of the most genius casting decisions in the history of Hollywood cinema, casting a Jim Carrey that at the time hadn’t yet proven his dramatic chops in the most complex role he has ever played, The Truman Show is one of the biggest soft sci-fi masterpieces of all time. Exquisitely meta, irresistibly funny, and philosophically layered, it’s one of the best existentialist films of its time.
Having learned that he lives as the subject of a simulated reality and that the real world lies “out there,” Truman decides to escape captivity. And as he leaves the television set that he’s been living inside his whole life, the audience gets bored and decides to switch the channel. The deeply emotional and wonderfully-performed moment of Truman leaving set is made all the more powerful by the film’s final message: We crave drama and spectacle, no matter where it comes from.
Steven Spielberg is the father of blockbusters, but it just so happens that his magnum opus isn’t a crowd-pleasing popcorn film at all, but rather one of the most serious war dramas of the ’90s. Schindler’s List, winner of seven Academy Awards (including Best Picture), is far more than just a biopic about the life of complicated historical figure Oskar Schindler: It’s one of the most effective anti-war movies in Hollywood history.
Spielberg never shies away from the darkness, violence, and pure pain of his gut-wrenching depiction of the Holocaust—but he, one of cinema’s greatest humanists, makes sure that the story is never without hope. The movie ends in quite an unexpected way, with many of the survivors that Schindler rescued visiting his grave and placing stones on its marker. It’s the perfect way to cement this as one of the most powerful war movies of all time.
If there’s one filmmaker who has made it his specialty to make some of the greatest Stephen King adaptations that the big screen has ever seen, it’s Frank Darabont. His second-ever adaptation of the horror writer’s work was a non-horror movie: The Green Mile, a harrowing fantasy prison drama based on one of the heaviest books of the 1990s.
The Green Mile is a tear-jerker from start to finish, largely thanks to Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan‘s powerhouse performances, but never is that truer than in its ending. The innocent John Coffey is executed, passing his wonderful powers on to Paul Edgecomb, which punish Paul for having let John die by allowing him to outlive everyone he loves. It’s an incredibly sad and bittersweet conclusion, made all-the-more powerful by Hanks and Duncan’s soul-stirring work.
Directed by Gus Van Sant and penned by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck (who won an Academy Award for their screenplay), Good Will Hunting is one of the most universally beloved indie movies of all time. As deeply sad as it can be sometimes, it’s also a film full of hope for the future, making it one of the best crowd-pleasing drama movies ever made.
That hope leads to the movie’s bittersweet conclusion, where Will rejects the high-paying job offered by his professor to instead drive to California and reunite with his ex-girlfriend, Skylar. Robin Williams‘ Oscar-winning performance leaves us with an improvised line that’s among the best closing lines in film history: Having read the letter that Will left him explaining that he has to “go see about a girl,” Sean mutters to himself, “Son of a b***h… He stole my line.”
It’s not only Hollywood that produced the best movies and movie endings of the 1990s, and for proof, one needn’t look much further than Matthieu Kassovitz‘ French social thriller La Haine. It’s one of the highest-rated movies of the ’90s on Letterboxd for a reason: It’s one of the best international movie masterpieces of all time, a perfectly-written and perfectly-paced drama about police brutality, systemic racism, and the endless cycle of violence that has plagued humanity for centuries.
One of those movie endings that completely recontextualize everything that has come before, making an instant re-watch incredibly tempting.
The conclusion of La Haine is one of those movie endings that completely recontextualize everything that has come before, making an instant re-watch incredibly tempting. A police officer accidentally kills Vinz, leading to a standoff between Hubert and another cop. A final gunshot is heard off-screen, cutting to black before we can see who got shot. That ambiguity is essential to the movie’s message: That the vicious cycle of violence is never clear-cut, and that its senselessness is precisely the point.
Quentin Tarantino‘s Pulp Fiction is such a perfect sophomore feature effort that it earned its director a Palme d’Or at the 1994 Cannes Film Festival, immediately putting him on the map as one of the leading creative voices of his generation of filmmakers. As the years have passed, the reputation of this cult classic has only grown higher, and that’s for good reason.
Part of why Pulp Fiction is one of the best crime movies of all time is how brilliant its non-linear structure is, its many stories interweaving at several points that only become clear as the story progresses. A perfect example of that is how the movie’s final set piece actually turns out to be a continuation of the story’s very first scene. Jules and Vincent manage to cleverly stop a diner robbery, letting the petty thieves go and walking out together. From the structure to the pacing to the dialogue to the character arcs, it’s one of the most perfect endings in Tarantino’s whole filmography.
As phenomenal as Pulp Fiction is, it’s The Shawshank Redemption that’s widely regarded as the greatest motion picture of 1994, seeing as it has been the highest-rated film in history on IMDb for many years now. It’s one of the most flawless and emotionally stirring prison dramas ever put on the big screen, and it’s no coincidence that it’s also a Frank Darabont film based on a Stephen King story.
Through and through, it’s one of the best drama movies based on books, which leads all the way to one of the most moving endings of ’90s cinema. After Andy’s successful escape from prison following 19 years on the inside for a crime he didn’t commit, he reunites with Red on a Mexican beach. If ever a deeply poignant film deserved to have a purely uplifting happy ending, it was this one.
Martin Scorsese is regarded by many as the single greatest currently-working filmmaker, and that’s all thanks to genre-defining masterpieces of the caliber of Goodfellas, one of the most exciting movies based on great books. This biopic about Henry Hill‘s life and involvement with the mafia is arguably one of the most perfect examples of a rags-to-riches story ever committed to celluloid.
But like all the best rags-to-riches stories about vicious criminals, Goodfellas makes sure to see its protagonist’s life crumble under its own weight as it nears the credits. The film ends with Hill turning into an informant and entering the witness protection program, having to live the rest of his life “like a schnook.” It’s a classic mobster movie conclusion, executed in the most perfectly-written and perfectly-paced way that the genre has ever seen.
Today, David Fincher is widely recognized as one of the greatest thriller filmmakers of his generation, but that wasn’t always the case. After the failure that was Alien³, the director had to prove that he was worthy of studios’ trust. Enter Se7en, which, having made over $300 million dollars at the box office worldwide, is probably the most horrifyingly fatalistic and nihilistic blockbuster ever to have made so much money.It’s also one of the best thriller movies since 1990, and that’s in no small measure thanks to one of the most nail-bitingly suspenseful third acts in the history of cinema. Serial killer John Doe delivers the severed head of Detective Mills’ pregnant wife, provoking Mills to murder him and thus completing his killing spree themed to the Seven Deadly Sins. Overwhelmingly bleak and depressing, awfully violent without actually needing to show all that much blood, and masterfully subversive of the typical Hollywood thriller formula, Se7en‘s conclusion is the most legendary and well-executed movie ending of the 1990s.
Mahershala Ali was announced as the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Blade” in 2019 during the San Diego Comic-Con. However, years later in 2022, the movie began to fall apart when director Bassam Tariq abruptly exited the production. Now, Ali is teaming up with Tariq for a different movie and breaking his silence on his version of “Blade” never materializing.

Ali and Tariq interviewed with GQ in July 2026 to discuss their upcoming film, “Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother,” which is distributed by Amazon MGM and is scheduled for release in September 2026. During the interview, Ali was asked if he thinks the world is closer to getting the failed “Blade” film first promised in 2019.
He stated, “Not with me. The best way I can answer this question is, when I look at what is for me, is it was either this or that, and I’ll take this. No offense to them. I’ve been doing this professionally for pushing 30 years now, and one thing I’ve learned is that what is for you is for you and what is not is not.”
Ali added, “For whatever reason, that project is not for me.” After that, he raised doubt in Marvel’s interest in the project, stating, “If they wanted to do it, we would’ve done it. So I have to move on, and I have moved on.”
From there, the “Jurassic World: Rebirth” star said that he’s more interested in original stories like the one found in “Your Mother” instead of adding remakes to his resume as an actor.
According to him, “Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother feels very much in alignment with the type of work I want to be known for. I don’t really want to be known for remakes. I’d love to do original work that resonates with people and impacts them in unique ways.

Ali continued his thoughts on “Blade,” but took a bit of a jab at Marvel and the studio’s inaction when it came to making the movie despite all the resources at its disposal. He said, “Again, you had me under contract, they have billions of dollars, if they wanted to do the movie, we would’ve done the movie. So we’re not doing the movie.”
He then reflected on the fact that his new movie exists because “Blade” fell apart. Ali explained, “When I look at this and ‘Blade,’ I couldn’t have done both, and the reason this even exists is because that project fell apart and Bassam had the time, space, energy, and focus to go and write this and then re-approach me.”
Additionally, Ali stated that he was able to use some of his training for “Blade” while filming “Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother.” The actor explained, “In that way, I feel creatively redeemed on some level, just in my own journey between me, myself, and I. But I feel ready to move on from the ‘Blade’ questions.”
He added, “Those questions are for them. They didn’t want to do it, so they should answer that question.”

Following the announcement that Ali would become the MCU’s Blade, it was announced in 2021 that Tariq would direct. However, he dropped out of the project the following September. Then, between his exit and 2024, multiple other creatives were attached to the project before the movie disappeared from Marvel’s release calendar in 2025.
Most recently, in July 2026, Kevin Feige, the President and Chief Creative Officer for Marvel, addressed the situation while appearing on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast. He said about the movie, “I am feeling like a gigantic loser and failure that we didn’t get off the ground with Mahershala.”

According to Deadline, “Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother” will open in New York and Los Angeles theaters on September 25 before expanding on October 2 and October 9. In the movie, which Tariq wrote, directed, and produced, Ali stars as a religious hitman who struggles to find balance between his faith, work, and being a newly single father after his wife’s death.
Ali discussed doing stunt work for the movie, saying, “It really felt like my first action film. ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ is more of an adventure thing, and, in other films I’ve been in that have action sequences, I’ve died as the action starts, like ‘Predators’ and ‘Hunger Games.’
He continued, “So I’ve been wanting to do a grounded action piece for years. As a former athlete, I’ve dreamed of doing my own stunts. I was very excited to do stunts in ‘Blade’ and trained for a long time for that, so it was a huge relief to get to put that work to use.”

Ali will return for the upcoming “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse,” where he’s voiced Aaron Davis since the 2018 film. The new movie is expected to be released in 2027. Additionally, according to Deadline, he will appear in an upcoming limited Hulu series, “The Plot,” in which he plays a struggling author who steals another writer’s story idea and is then threatened with exposure.
Currently, “The Plot” does not have a release date.
Anthony Mackie‘s first encounter with Sir Ian McKellen on the set of “Avengers: Doomsday” turned into an unforgettable moment.
Mackie stars as Captain America, a role he inherited from Chris Evans, while McKellen reprises his iconic role as Magneto.
“Avengers: Doomsday” is set to debut in theaters this December, bringing together Mackie, McKellen, and several other high-profile actors from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Speaking to IMDb, Mackie recalled meeting McKellen for the first time after filming began on “Avengers: Doomsday” in early 2025. The actor admitted he was starstruck by McKellen’s presence and immediately introduced himself.
“I go to Ian McKellen, he goes, ‘Hello, son.’ I’m like, ‘Ian McKellen, sir. You’re amazing. It’s amazing to work with you,’” Mackie said.
Mackie also shared that McKellen asked which character he was playing before making a comment that genuinely touched him.
“He goes, ‘So what are you doing in the film?’ and I’m like, ‘I’m Captain America,’” Mackie added. “And he goes, ‘Wonderful… and you deserve that.’”

In “Avengers: Doomsday,” a host of Marvel characters will unite on the big screen for the first time.
Mackie returns as Captain America, a role passed on to him by Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers at the end of “Avengers: Endgame.” He officially took up the mantle in the Disney+ series “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” before leading his own solo film, “Captain America: Brave New World.”
Meanwhile, McKellen’s appearance in “Avengers: Doomsday” marks his sixth outing as Magneto.
He first portrayed the iconic mutant in the original “X-Men” trilogy before reprising the role in “The Wolverine” and “X-Men: Days of Future Past.”

On the same day he shared the McKellen anecdote, Mackie also revealed that filming “Avengers: Doomsday” was “definitely more strenuous” and “intensive” than working on his previous Avengers films.
“It was a lot of rigorous physical work,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “It was a lot of action work, but also just getting the dialogue and the emotional moments, the beats correct.”
According to Mackie, every effort was aimed at delivering the “best story” possible for Marvel fans. He added that the extra work also helped the filmmakers craft a compelling story without an excessive runtime.
“It’s like there are ways of streamlining it and making it more focused so the audience could have all the stuff that they enjoy, but it usually takes us longer in the process,” he said.

“Avengers: Doomsday” is set to hit theaters on December 18, 2026, and is one of Marvel’s most anticipated releases.
For his part, Mackie said he is excited for audiences to finally see the movie after the cast and crew spent “years and countless” hours bringing it to life.
“When you look at the Russo brothers and what they put together and bringing them back to do this movie, it was the right time and the right moment to make it happen,” he told Extra.
Elsewhere in the interview, Mackie described working alongside cast members from different generations of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as “amazing.” He added that the atmosphere on set felt like “a family affair” and compared the experience to attending “summer camp,” where longtime friends reunite.
Last year, Mackie appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” where he opened up about the unexpected perks of playing Captain America.
The actor admitted that before taking on the role, he believed he was already famous enough to receive special treatment while dining out. However, it wasn’t until he became Captain America that those perks actually started rolling in.
“Since ‘Captain America’ came out, y’all, y’all. I get free appetizers now everywhere I go, everywhere I go,” Mackie joked.
He continued, “I get the good cheese like Gorgonzola. You know what I mean? The secret cheese. I didn’t even know cheese could be sharp.”
Parents in Arizona will not face charges after their toddler was found alive in a morgue just hours after he was believed to be dead after drowning in a backyard pool.
The boy, 18 months, was brought to Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center in Gilbert, Arizona, after his family found him seemingly dead in their pool on February 8.
First responders reported to the home and performed life-saving measures before the boy was transported to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Upon his arrival, hospital staff continued resuscitation efforts until he was pronounced dead about an hour later.
However, the boy was later found alive in the morgue and is still alive today.
Five months after the incident, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office announced in a statement on Wednesday, July 29, that police recommended that both of the boy’s parents be charged. However, prosecutors “determined that this case did not meet our charging standard of ‘reasonable likelihood of conviction.’”
“To file charges, the state would need to prove beyond a reasonable doubt to a unanimous jury that the parents failed to recognize a substantial and unjustifiable risk, and that this failure was such a serious lapse in judgment that it was a gross deviation from what a reasonable person would have done under the same circumstances,” the statement read.
Officials wrote that “multiple childproof locks and safety measures” were in place at the family’s home, and “multiple adults were present in the home, all of whom believed someone was watching the child.”
Authorities also said that their investigation found “no evidence that the parents exhibited any obvious signs of impairment.”
Police records from earlier in July detailed how the child’s parents, a nurse and police officers all raised concerns that the boy was still alive before personnel from the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office discovered that he was breathing when they arrived at the morgue to retrieve his body, according to the Associated Press.
The police report stated that a doctor was preparing to tell the parents that the boy died when a nurse told him, “I have a pulse.” A police officer relayed the concern to the doctor, the doctor allegedly responded, “Please do your thing and let me do my thing.”
After the boy was found to be alive, he was immediately airlifted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital for emergency treatment.
Following the incident, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center said that it was “a heartbreaking situation.”
“We immediately conducted a thorough review of all aspects of the care that was provided to learn what happened and to make meaningful changes to strengthen our care,” the hospital said in a statement to People. “Out of respect for the patient’s privacy, we cannot discuss details. We continue to work with the family and their representative. Patient safety and exceptional care is our highest priority.”
While the boy survived the incident, doctors said he still “faces a long and challenging recovery” and will “need extensive therapy, ongoing medical monitoring, and support.” A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family with medical bills.
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“My makeup artist of 30 years is dead. Period. Send.”
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner’s daughter, Violet Affleck, is drawing attention after a recent outing with her mother.
The college student, who has been extremely vocal about COVID-19 mask mandates, made the surprising decision to ditch her mask for her latest public appearance.
Photos of Violet Affleck’s outing are now circulating online, leading to criticism of the 20-year-old, especially after he infamous UN speech on mask mandates.

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner’s daughter, Violet, has become widely recognized for her consistent masking and her high-profile activism demanding the return of mask mandates.
The college student consistently dons a face mask whenever she is out in public, but during her latest sighting, Violet ditched the device for a moment, while smiling next to her mother.
Standing significantly taller than Garner, Violet walked alongside the actress while sporting a pink floral maxi dress. Her choice of footwear was unique, pairing a single sneaker with a rigid medical walking boot.
Although the exact cause of her orthopedic cast remains unconfirmed, these devices are typically prescribed to aid the recovery of ankle and foot trauma.
Meanwhile, Garner maintained her signature casual style, opting for a crimson patterned top over a jean skirt, accessorized with sandals and sunglasses.
The pro-mask activist eventually pulled out the mask and wore it, returning to her usual clean-air routine.
See photos from the outing here.

Images from Violet’s outing with her mother quickly circulated online, sparking mixed reactions from netizens, with many bringing up her UN speech.
One individual on X wrote, “I feel sympathy for people like her. They were young, and elites used COVID to warp their minds.”
Another critic stated, “Hollywood is an infection. They put out slop propaganda, then spawn liberal weirdos that have money to try to destroy society.”
“Who allows their child to give a batsh-t crazy lecture to the UN and be mocked by the world?” a third asked, taking aim at the 20-year-old’s parents.
Amid the criticism, Violet received some support from people telling critics to leave her alone: “Jesus Christ!! Leave the girl alone. It’s her business when and if she wears a mask. She is a beautiful, intelligent young woman.”

Despite her firm commitment to wearing masks whenever she’s out in public, internet speculation tends to chalk up her actions to a desire for personal privacy.
However, reports confirmed that the 20-year-old’s habit stems from a severe post-viral illness she contracted in 2019.
Since dealing with that medical crisis, she has consistently worn a face mask during everyday public outings, including casual trips with her family.
Violet solidified her dedication to public health advocacy in September 2025 when she addressed the United Nations, demanding a reinstatement of mandatory face coverings.

During her impassioned speech, the clean-air advocate warned that people have abandoned protective masks too quickly.
She emphasized that COVID-19 continues to pose a significant threat to global health and should be taken more seriously.
“It is neglect of the highest order to look children in the eyes and say: ‘We knew how to protect you, and we didn’t do it,’” she told the UN, per the Daily Mail.
She continued, “For adults, the relentless beat of ‘back to normal,’ ignoring, downplaying, and concealing both the prevalence of airborne transmission and the threat of Long Covid manifested in a series of choices […] Our present is being stolen right in front of our eyes.”
“My hope for this event and my belief in this community pressed on the belief that we can, and we must do that again,” Violet added. “We can recognize filtered air as a human right, as intuitively as we do filtered water.”

Although Violet gets a lot of flak online for her mask advocacy, her father Affleck has frequently expressed his admiration for her.
During a conversation with Access Hollywood, the Oscar winner praised his daughter as “spectacular” and noted how much she “takes after” her mother.
He also opened up about his seamless co-parenting dynamic with Garner, emphasizing how effortless she makes the partnership.
According to Hola, Affleck shared: “I’m very lucky that I’ve got a great partner and we’ve got great kids. It’s the joy of my life, and I’m just very, very lucky. And it makes me happy every day.”
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Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt have taken a big step in their coparenting journey with their daughter, Scottie Rose.
A source confirmed to Us on Friday, July 31, that the pair have reached “a joint agreement pertaining to their child.”
“We are cooperatively coparenting our daughter whose well-being remains our top priority, and we are fully committed to working together to give her love from both of us,” the couple said in a joint statement via their reps to Us.
In December 2025, Davidson, 32, and Hewitt’s lives changed forever when they welcomed a baby girl. Scottie was named after Davidson’s late dad, a firefighter who died in the line of duty while responding to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
News broke in May, however, that the couple split five months after becoming parents.
“They tried to make it work, but there were different stressors, including having a baby together as two people who didn’t yet know each other that well,” a source said at the time. “They are both trying to make it work and have made accommodations in their schedules for the baby.”
Hewitt, 30, raised eyebrows on May 16 when she claimed via TikTok that she was raising baby Scottie “on my own.”
Sources, however, later told Us that the claim was not true and Davidson was fully financially supporting Hewitt and their daughter.

Elsie Hewitt Courtesy of Elsie Hewitt/Instagram
“He’s very present in the baby’s life,” an insider previously told Us. “He wants nothing but the best for Elsie and he shoulders all of the financial costs, including the costs for Elsie, her rent and her health insurance. Elsie’s posts caught everyone around them off guard because they are simply not true.”
Over time, an insider revealed to Us that Davidson and Hewitt’s communication had “improved” and noted that the exes are “having productive conversations” in regards to coparenting.
“They’ve been working together on parenting,” the source added. “Pete has adjusted his schedule to be there for their daughter.”
As for the romantic aspect of their relationship, “Pete and Elsie both wanted [the relationship] to work and it didn’t.”
Relationships aside, Davidson remains hard at work transforming into mob killer Tommy Pitera for the upcoming crime-thriller Tommy Karate.
As for Hewitt, she has continued her advocacy work and explored acting while spending plenty of time with her daughter.
“My lil strawberry’s first time swimming,” Hewitt wrote via Instagram on Thursday, July 30, when documenting her daughter’s trip to the pool. “My heart’s millionth time exploding🍓🍓🫀🫀💓🧑🧒♥️.”
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