Entertainment
5 Best Rachel McAdams Movies, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score
This weekend, Rachel McAdams stars in Send Help, a survival horror-thriller in which her character gets stranded on a deserted island with her overbearing boss (Dylan O’Brien).
Here at Watch With Us, we love McAdams. From her devastating romantic dramas to her laugh-out-loud comedies, McAdams is both a talented and versatile performer.
In honor of her latest picture, we thought we’d take a look back at her career highlights — and see where they fell on the Tomatometer.
Here are McAdams’ five best movies, ranked by Rotten Tomatoes score.
Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien are putting their survival skills to the test in their new horror film, Send Help. The trailer, which was released in October 2025, showcases their thrilling performances as colleagues Bradley Preston and Linda Liddle, respectively. The characters clash in more ways than one when they find themselves stranded on a […]
5. ‘The Family Stone’ (2005)
Rotten Tomatoes score: 52 percent
Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney) decides to bring his new girlfriend, Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker), home with him to meet his family over Christmas, but doing this is no easy feat. She’ll have to contend with his eccentric and fiercely overprotective parents, Sybil (Diane Keaton) and Kelly (Craig T. Nelson), and his equally loyal siblings, who dislike how awkward and uptight Meredith seems to be — particularly Everett’s younger sister, the sarcastic Amy (McAdams). As tensions mount to a boiling point, can this gaggle of disparate personalities survive the holidays?
A little corny, a little cringe, The Family Stone has defied a mixed critical reception and become something of a cult classic over the years and a Christmas staple for many. The terrific ensemble cast (which also includes Luke Wilson, Elizabeth Reaser and Claire Danes), paired with the gooey sentimentality, some zany, screwball humor and tantalizingly unrealistic characters, produces an oddly endearing holiday comedy that never goes out of style.
4. ‘About Time’ (2013)
Rotten Tomatoes score: 71 percent
Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) learns an incredible secret from his father (Bill Nighy) when he turns 21 — all the men in their family are time-travelers. Though unable to change the course of history at large, they can still change the course of their own lives. So, Tim resolves to use time travel to improve his love life. When Tim eventually meets Mary (McAdams), he uses charm and his special abilities to win her heart. But as Tim’s life goes on, he slowly realizes that he can’t always use time travel to escape the ordinary problems inherent to being alive.
While riddled with some time-travel-related plot holes, you will find yourself totally won over by About Time’s irresistible charms — in large part thanks to the chemistry between McAdams and Gleeson. Despite the admittedly absurd nature of the narrative, Richard Curtis infuses pure earnest sincerity into the screenplay and direction to craft a timeless (no pun intended) romance.
3. ‘Mean Girls’ (2004)
Rotten Tomatoes score: 84 percent
Formerly homeschool student Cady Heron (Lindsay Lohan) finally enters the chaos of high school, and she realizes that teenagers are far more bestial than the lions she once knew where she grew up in Africa. After meeting Janice (Lizzy Caplan) and Damien (Daniel Franzese), Cady quickly learns how to act, how to dress and about all the various cliques — like the “Plastics,” led by the domineering Regina George (McAdams). When Cady agrees to befriend Regina to “take her down” on behalf of Janice, Cady unwittingly becomes swept up in the cheap thrills of popularity.
Written by Tina Fey (who infuses her signature acerbic wit), Mean Girls still endures as one of the best American high school movies of all time. Funny, surprisingly sentimental and full of too many viral one-liners to name, the movie is a coming-of-age staple as well as a crucial early-career launchpad for actors like Caplan, McAdams and Amanda Seyfried.
2. ‘Game Night’ (2018)
Rotten Tomatoes score: 85 percent
Game obsessives Annie (McAdams) and Max (Jason Bateman) meet and fall in love through their shared love of all things playable, hosting weekly game nights with their other suburban couple friends. But when Max’s showboat older brother Brooks (Kyle Chandler) decides to take things up a notch by hiring a murder mystery party, the game gets too real when they realize that Brooks has actually been kidnapped by thugs. As the night gets more and more chaotic, Annie and Max find themselves involved in a game that has more rules than they know how to follow.
Game Night proved that McAdams still possesses the comedy chops she once flaunted in Mean Girls, and that the actress should be using these comedic gifts far more frequently than she’s allowed to. Of course, McAdams isn’t the only standout in this fantastic ensemble cast — Billy Magnussen, Lamorne Morris, and, especially, Jesse Plemons all get big laughs in this fast-paced, cleverly edited crime caper.
1. ‘Spotlight’ (2015)
Rotten Tomatoes score: 97 percent
Based on a series of exposes published by The Boston Globe, Spotlight takes place in the early 2000s and follows a team of journalists at the Globe. This “Spotlight team” is assigned to report on a disgraced priest who’s been accused of sexually abusing countless young boys. Led by Walter “Robby” Robinson (Michael Keaton), Walter and his reporters Sacha Pfeiffer (McAdams), Michael Rezendes (Mark Ruffalo) and Matt Caroll (Brian d’Arcy James) ultimately come to realize they are investigating a decades-long scandal of abuse cover-ups within the Roman Catholic Church.
This Best Picture-winning investigative drama is both sobering and riveting — a slow-burn pressure-cooker of tension, control and mounting revelations that will leave you in a frustrating state of outrage. While Spotlight’s conclusion may not be the most cathartic, the filmmakers intentionally resist glorifying the reporters and indulging in platitudes. Instead, the film unfurls its absorbing narrative with grace, anchored by a top-notch ensemble cast.
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Robert Carradine
Actor Was MIA on Current Film, Director Says
Published
The death of Robert Carradine has shocked Hollywood … but TMZ has learned there was a troubling sign on his final film project, according to one of his most recent colleagues.
Connie Lamothe, director of “The Driver” — AKA “Driving into Darkness” — tells TMZ … she’s shocked and devastated about “Bobby’s” death … but she knew there was something wrong when he went MIA from her film prior to the table read this week.
Everything was finally back on track and moving along well after the project got derailed by the pandemic … but then in January, Connie tells us David went radio silent. Producers had no idea where he was or what was going on. They were worried … but a friend who is also in the cast knew of his struggles with mental health. So, they decided to give him some space … and hoped he would return.
As we reported … the “Revenge of the Nerds” and “Lizzie McGuire” icon took his own life after a nearly two-decade-long battle with bipolar disorder.
Robert had been super excited for the project — a crime drama in which he was playing a mob boss, a leading role — Connie says, noting the actor wanted to show he could do more than comedy and westerns.
Recalling their time together during pre-production, Connie says David was delightful and always cheerful when they spoke — including when she joked with him about cutting his hair and shaving off his beard for the role.
Robert was 71.
RIP
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
When The Princess Bride was released in 1987, it quietly rewrote the rules of romantic fantasy. It proved that a love story could be sweeping without being saccharine, ironic without being cynical, and adventurous without losing emotional sincerity. Since then, filmmakers have chased that same 1980s alchemy—the delicate balance of magic, humor, danger, and devotion. And luckily, some have found it.
Many would argue that the best romantic fantasy films released in its wake understand one crucial thing: spectacle alone is not enough. Whether told through animated kingdoms, time-traveling meet-cutes, or sky-bound ships, these stories endure because they treat love as transformative. They remind us that romance, at its best, feels both impossible and inevitable (like destiny, but still chosen). And in a genre built on magic, that sincerity is the most powerful spell of all.
8
‘Tangled’ (2010)
After a magical flower grants her healing powers, baby Princess Rapunzel is stolen from the palace by the vain and manipulative Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy), who locks her away in a hidden tower for 18 years. Now, on the brink of adulthood, Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) finally seizes her chance at freedom when charming thief, Flynn Rider (Zachery Levi), stumbles into her tower, and promises to escort her to see the floating lanterns she’s long dreamed of.
Tangled feels like a direct descendant of The Princess Bride in the best way: it gives us swashbuckling adventure, razor-sharp banter, and a romance that builds through shared danger. The lantern sequence alone solidifies itself in the Disney hall of fame as it’s not only visually stunning, but emotionally significant as it showcases a true moment of vulnerability. Throughout the film, Flynn’s bravado softens, Rapunzel finds her courage, and the fairy-tale becomes deeply human. It’s a classic romance polished with modern wit, and a true underrated addition to Disney’s animated collection.
7
‘Edward Scissorhands’ (1990)
In a pastel suburban town, an unfinished artificial man named Edward (Johnny Depp) is discovered living alone in a gothic mansion. Taken in by a well-meaning family, Edward struggles to adapt to suburban life, all the while forming a tender connection with their daughter, Kim (Winona Ryder). Unfortunately for him, his scissor-bladed hands and gentle strangeness quickly make him both a fascination and target to others.
Tim Burton’s melancholic masterpiece transforms a simple love story into something hauntingly tragic. Like in The Princess Bride, Edward and Kim’s romance is defined by distance—physical, emotional, and societal. It’s a story about loving someone you can never quite hold. However, where many fantasy romances promise happily-ever-afters, Edward Scissorhands lingers in the longing. Its bittersweet devotion, quiet sacrifice, and gothic atmosphere give it the emotional weight of a modern myth made legendary in the 90s.
6
‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ (2004)
When Sophie (Chieko Baishô), a shy young woman working in her family’s hat shop, is cursed by a jealous witch and transformed into an elderly woman, she has no means to tell anyone of her plight. So, seeking a way to break the spell, she finds refuge in the magical, ever-shifting castle of the mysterious wizard Howl (Takuya Kimura). But as war looms and curses intertwine, Sophie and Howl slowly unravel each other’s defenses.
From the brilliant minds at Studio Ghibli and famed director Hayao Miyazaki, this romance is whimsical, strange, and yet still profoundly tender. Sophie learns confidence in a body she doesn’t recognize, while Howl learns bravery in a world he’s been avoiding. Together, their love unfolds through quiet acts of protection rather than grand speeches. In many ways, the magic externalizes their insecurities, making their emotional growth feel even more profound. Howl’s Moving Castle is fantasy at its most poetic.
5
‘Big Fish’ (2003)
As Edward Bloom (Albert Finney) nears the end of his life, his estranged son Will (Billy Crudup) attempts to separate fact from fiction in the fantastical stories his father has told for years—those being tales of witches, giants, mermaids, and impossible adventures. Threaded through every outlandish anecdote, however, is Edward’s unwavering devotion to his wife, Sandra (Jessica Lange), whom he claims to have loved from the very first moment he saw her.
While Big Fish operates as a father-son drama, its most enduring thread is romantic devotion. Edward’s love story unfolds like folklore—exaggerated, stylized, larger than life—yet grounded in something deeply sincere. Whether every detail happened exactly as told almost becomes irrelevant. What matters is that Edward’s love for Sandra feels mythic in its consistency. For many, this movie highlights how romance isn’t just about how love begins, but how it is remembered and retold. And in that sense, it’s one of the grandest love stories of all.
4
‘Enchanted’ (2007)
When animated fairy tale princess Giselle (Amy Adams) is banished by an evil queen into live-action modern-day New York City, she finds herself navigating a world without talking animals or instant happily-ever-afters. Taken in by pragmatic divorce lawyer Robert (Patrick Dempsey) after an accidental stumble, Giselle’s unwavering optimism begins to disrupt his carefully ordered life—especially when people (and creatures) from her world begin to creep in.
There’s no doubt that Enchanted thrives on its playful collision between sincerity and skepticism. Giselle’s belief in true love initially seems naive, but the film gradually proves that romance can survive even outside storybook rules. The love that develops between Giselle and Robert surely isn’t instant magic—instead, it’s built through partnership and growth. By lovingly poking fun at classic tropes while still embracing them, the film becomes both parody and love letter to the genre.
3
‘Shrek 2’ (2004)
After returning from their honeymoon, Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) are invited to return to the Kingdom of Far Far Away to meet her royal parents. The only problem: they don’t know that she’s married to an ogre, nor that she’s fully become one. Throw in a scheming Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders), a swoon-worthy (and deeply smarmy) Prince Charming (Rupert Everett), and one unforgettable potion mishap, and you have a sequel that goes bigger in every possible way.
Underneath the meme-worthy one-liners and iconic needle drops lies a romance that feels shockingly grounded. Indeed, Shrek 2 dares to ask whether love should be reshaped to meet the world’s expectations—or whether the world should adjust instead. Fiona choosing Shrek again and again, even when offered conventionally “perfect” versions and alternatives, makes their relationship one of the most affirming in animated history. There’s no doubt that it’s truly one of the best movies (and sequels) to ever be made.
2
‘About Time’ (2013)
When Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) learns from his father that the men in his family have the ability to travel through time, he decides to use his newfound ability to improve his life—starting with finding love. Lucky for him, after a series of awkward first encounters, Tim finally meets Mary (Rachel McAdams), and their relationship unfolds with a mixture of do-overs, missteps, and small triumphs.
Directed by Richard Curtis, About Time transforms a high-concept premise into something incredibly intimate. In this world, time travel isn’t about spectacle, but about presence. Tim slowly realizes that perfection isn’t the goal—appreciation is, leaving the fantasy element to reinforce the film’s central truth: love lives in the ordinary days, messy conversations, and feeling moments you can’t rewind forever. It truly is romance in the most grounded way possible.
1
‘Stardust’ (2007)
In the quiet village of Wall, Tristan Thorn (Charlie Cox) promises the woman he adores that he will retrieve a fallen star for her birthday. Needing to cross into a magical realm, Tristan soon discovers that the star is not a stone at all, but a woman named Yvaine (Claire Danes). But as dangerous forces close in, a reluctant partnership develops, alongside an unexpected love story.
Based on the famed Neil Gaiman novel, Stardust easily earns the crown in this list as it most faithfully channels the spirit of the grand, unabashed romantic fantasy. Between sword fights, sky pirates, wicked witches, and declarations that make your heart lurch—it never undercuts its own sincerity. Tristan begins the film by chasing the fantasy of love and ends it by choosing real partnership, while Yvaine proves she’s not a mere prize to be won, but a force in her own right. It’s funny, bold, and deliciously ridiculous in the best way. For any Gen Z, this is our Princess Bride.
Stardust
- Release Date
-
August 10, 2007
- Runtime
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127 minutes
- Director
-
Matthew Vaughn
- Writers
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Jane Goldman, Matthew Vaughn, Neil Gaiman
Next: 10 Fantasy Movie Flips That Are Actually Misunderstood Masterpieces
On 90 Day Fiance, Lisa faces scrutiny from an Igbo king and makes it worse by laughing at the wrong moment. Ziad El Yahyaoui leaves Emma Perry high and dry in the Moroccan desert. Forrest pulls off a romantic yet sweaty proposal but not everyone shares the joy. And Aunt Spring brings the receipts backing Stig Da Artist into a corner. Buckle up and lets take a closer look in this recap of Season 8, Episode 11 Use Caution When Opening Overhead Bins.
90 Day Fiance: Lisa’s Nervous Laugh Ruins a Royal Moment
On 90 Day Fiance, Lisa is prepping her wig for a big day on 90 Day Fiance. She squeals to the cameras that she’s meeting a real life king! And fears she could lose control of her bladder or worse during her royal moment. Daniel dons his long tassel cap to represent his tribe and she tells him he looks like Santa. Daniel helps her tie her hefty bag headdress again and Lisa holds her breath imagining the palace she’s about to visit.
But there is no palace. Just a regular neighborhood with laundry hanging out to dry. Lisa’s visions of sharply dressed palace guards and high tea and crumpets give way to a different type of royal experience. The “king” dons a carnival plush lion around his neck and a faux fur cap decorated with pooka shells. He’s flanked by some people in tribal body paint. It looks like a community theatre production of The Lion King.
Lisa kneels before the king and he shakes a box of small trinkets to channel his ancestors. He wants to know if she will take care of Daniel. Lisa spits out “yes my king” on 90 Day Fiance. But the king calls her out. And she laughs nervously. This doesn’t go over well with the lion king. He scolds her laughter and Daniel must explain her nervousness. King Don Sylvester Nweke (yes that’s his name) softens and accepts Lisa and her wig into the fold. He even encourages her to laugh and dance.
90 Day Fiance: Emma’s Truth Sends Ziad Running
Emma Perry our other wig master of this season of Before The 90 Days, isn’t faring well in the desert. After she got off the camel, things have gone straight downhill. Grumpy that her birthday party didn’t end in a proposal, she decides to make things worse with her confession. Ziad El Yahyaoui, who doesn’t seem to be the least bit interested in Emma seems relieved when she admits she’s been lying about everything.
Ziad tells Emma she’s just not good. For hiding a previous engagement to a different Moroccan man. Emma doesn’t see the big deal. Thinking that her Kardashian inspired looks and sweet talk would overrule any blatant dishonesty. Emma thinks it’s Ziad who has been unfaithful for chatting up girls online. Ziad leaps up, packs his stuff and calls for a car to get him the heck out of there and away from Emma Perry, who sobs chasing after him yelling about how they had sex.
It seems like it’s over for this 90 Day Fiance couple. Of course, Emma is shocked that he would break up with her and leave her in the desert declaring him an a-hole. Ziad is long gone while Emma whines in the desert winds about the unfairness of it all. She doesn’t think she did anything wrong. In all honesty, Ziad probably was tired like the rest of us of hearing the words babe and cute at the end of every sentence.
TLC Couple Forrest and Sheena Get Engaged
Forrest’s mom Molly and stepfather Dev enjoy local fruits haggled from the market by Sheena. It’s a nice morning in the Philippines. And Forrest and Sheena have big plans to hit the Venice mall on 90 Day Fiance. A taste of Italy in the Philippines complete with water ways and gondolas. Molly and Dev wish them well. And the two lovebirds hit the mall excited. First up is a dress up shop. Forrest is proud to dress as her king. And she chooses a princess dress in red.
The pair have some serious talk while in costume. Sheena admits some of her behavior comes from betrayal. Including a cheating ex. Forrest vows to treat her with respect. And proposes after a gondola ride. She says yes and he is overjoyed. However his mom is sarcastic and livid when they share their happy news. She goes off on Sheena for supporting Forrest. And even goes as far to say that Forrest’s life is over.
Before The 90 Days: Stig Blames It All on Super Fans
Auntie Spring sees right through Stig Da Artist on 90 Day Fiance. Of course, it’s not her first Belize rodeo. And she’s got her niece digging up all the dirt on the charming crooner. He can’t lie that it’s clearly him in a photo planting a kiss on a young lady. And there are some texts that suggest he also told this particular girl that he will love her forever. There may have even been heart emojis involved. Stig lies and denies and suggests it was just another encounter with a super fan.
But Spring’s niece claims she’s tight with the girl in question. And that she’s indeed been hooking up with Stig. She cites specific dates she knows he was with her. Ultimately Aunt Spring gives Stig the chance to come clean to Aviva Duhamel or she will. Aviva sulks and has an uneasy feeling. Stig Da Artist tries to worm out of the accusations by using the super fan excuse. And claims the texts aren’t his. However, Aviva isn’t sold and rules out any physical contact for the night.
90 Day Fiance: Laura Nevenner Seeks Comfort from Home
Laura Nevenner is starry eyed after her sea cruise with Birkan. But she’s not completely blind to the many red flags that surfaced. First off the debt. Secondly the gambling problem and lack of a job. She asks Birkan for some alone time to catch up with family and friends back home. Birkan is fine granting her the time and heads out to the shisha cafe. Laura beams while she rings up her bestie and pickle ball partner Michal.
Michal claims he’s only “wellish” in Laura’s absence. Nevertheless, Laura misses Michal too. But when he asks how things are going in Turkey, she admits there’s some concerns. But also paints Birkan out to be thoughtful and sweet. Of course Michal sees through her BS. He tells her she’s “emotionally compromised” if she can forgive the red flags over a boat ride. He wants to come to Turkey and make sure she’s okay. Laura waffles and says she has to clear it with Birkan first.
90 Day Fiance: Elise Makes a Late Season Appearance
Fresh off showing her a*s on 90 Day: Hunt For Love, Elise Benson rolls up on Before The 90 Days. She’s late to the party, this time bragging about her boobs. She wishes she could flash production but fears getting in trouble. We get some back story on Elise. She visits her parents and admits she envies their relationship. Ultimately her last relationship was full on disaster as he stole her identity and took her for a half a mil. And her investment banker dad bailed her out.
Back in Miami she prepares to travel to Australia to meet her new prospect Josh Lawson. Of course, they met online and Elise Benson is smitten. He’s ripped, a single dad and lives with his parents at 39. She lives in a sparkling condo with her gender confused cat Stella. On a night out with friends Elise defends Josh not having his own place or money. She says she can deal with all that as long as he’s nice. Yet teases that he sent an ominous text that has her freaked out on the eve of her trip down under. Till next time!
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published
Buffy the Vampire Slayer is an insanely popular television show for many reasons, including its stellar writing and top-notch performances from some of Hollywood’s best actors. Beyond all this, though, the show is celebrated for being a feminist masterpiece that centers on a powerful young woman fighting against powerful men who try to keep her down. In this way, Buffy succeeds as both an entertaining urban fantasy series and a provocative exploration of sex, power, and gender roles in modern society.
However, many modern critics and fans have been re-evaluating Buffy and have come to a wild conclusion: that this girl-power cornerstone may actually be a shockingly bad portrayal of women. These arguments typically claim that the show is secretly misogynistic despite its surface-level message about fighting the patriarchy. While this has changed how some fans view their favorite show, defenders of Buffy maintain that the more problematic plotlines and portrayals in the series are just a side effect of having flawed and complex characters.
The Fall Of A Feminist Icon
It’s almost impossible to discuss a critical reframing of Buffy the Vampire Slayer without discussing franchise creator Joss Whedon; after this show’s success, he became a major comic book movie director, helming two Avengers movies as well as the lackluster Justice League film. However, his career came to a screeching halt after his ex-wife Kai Cole published a letter alleging that he had cheated on her numerous times, including with unnamed actresses on Buffy. In her brutal missive, she also called Whedon out for the “hypocrisy” of his “preaching feminist ideals” while allegedly lying to his wife for a decade and a half.
Towards the end of that letter, she said that she wants “the people who worship [Whedon] to know he is human, and the organizations giving him awards for his feminist work, to think twice in the future about honoring a man who does not practice what he preaches.” Obviously, Buffy the Vampire Slayer remains Whedon’s greatest work, a work designed to be the greatest feminist show ever made. Now that its creator has seemingly been revealed as a hypocrite (one who also faced allegations of abuse on the set of Justice League), many have been re-evaluating Buffy and how its characters and plotlines may be surprisingly harmful to women.
Critics Claim Buffy Secretly Reinforces A Status Quo
On paper, a big part of Buffy’s charm is that the titular character is a rebel: she is constantly defying Giles, her stodgy watcher, with the same sass that she tosses at various evil demons. Buffy is a troublemaker who clashes with corrupt cops and an evil mayor, and she never really respects authority. This is especially true when she puts the Council of Watchers (basically, her boss’s boss) in their place, reminding them that without the Slayer, their job literally has no meaning.
However, some critics believe that Buffy actually exemplifies a status quo established largely by and for men. After all, as a sexy, thin, heterosexual blonde, the Slayer is an exemplar of what most men consider conventionally attractive. To impressionable young girls watching the show in the ‘90s, Buffy the Vampire Slayer ironically reinforced some of the lopsided beauty standards expected of women, arguably continuing a very problematic tradition perpetuated by the patriarchy this show was designed to skewer.
Does This Show Secretly Hate Powerful Women?
Additionally, beyond her surface-level rebellion, Buffy’s character is presented as the safe and palatable alternative to other women who are presented as dangerously transgressive. For example, Faith is a fellow Slayer who loves sex and partying, and the show inevitably transforms her into a murderous enemy. Willow comes out as both gay and a witch, and when she really delves into her powers, she suddenly becomes a skin-flying Big Bad that can only be talked down from mass murder by a fairly useless man (sorry, Xander fans, you know it to be true).
What these other cases have in common is simple: women begin by embracing a hidden power that men disapprove of. They then act in selfish ways before they are vilified and then humbled: Faith serves prison time and then comes back to follow Buffy’s orders, whereas Willow rejects dark magic and becomes a loyal little Scoobie again. Each of these women is deliberately contrasted with Buffy, who constantly puts her own needs to the side for the sake of others.
Fans typically view this as a noble attribute, the same one that causes the X-Men to fight for a world that hates and fears them. But Buffy arguably spends most of the TV show named after her as a doormat for the Watchers, a group of men who essentially force her to do what they want until she finally stands up to them. In this sense, the majority of the show presents Buffy as a feminine ideal for being subservient to men and preserving their preferred status quo; Faith and Willow must eventually be fought by Buffy, someone whose line of work conveniently has her keep other women from ever getting too powerful.
Long story short? The claim is that Buffy is a show where rebellious women are tamed: Buffy by the Council, Faith by prison, and Willow by Xander. Heck, even vengeance demon Anya is tamed by her obsession with a man, ultimately trading all of her considerable mystical abilities for a life of domestic submission.
The Argument Against Buffy’s Men
One of the things Buffy the Vampire Slayer is very good at is creating villains that fans love to hate. These foes were almost always men, which helps reinforce the feminist theme of the show: the fellows would mouth off and insult the female protagonist before she killed them. This is all part of why the show feels so empowering: what woman watching wouldn’t enjoy having the power to fight off the toxic men who are always making her uncomfortable?
The essential problem with Buffy as a character, though, is that she keeps falling in love with the most messed-up men of all. The vampiric Angel is already a redeemed mass murderer when Buffy begins dating him, and she takes him back even after he temporarily loses his soul and tries to destroy the entire world. The same goes for Spike, a notorious serial killer whom she begins secretly shagging; he goes to get his own soul back after intimately assaulting Buffy, and she proceeds to welcome him back just as she did with Angel.
There’s a rather ugly subtext here that Buffy is uncontrollably attracted to notorious murderers just because they are hot, and she takes them back after these characters commit the worst atrocities against her and her friends. Rather than painting our titular protagonist as a hero, Buffy is presented as a doormat who doesn’t hesitate to take her abusers back. This arguably sends the worst possible message to abused women who are watching the show, hoping to gain the strength to escape the people who are hurting them.
Why They’re All Wrong: It’s Complicated
Those are just a few of the reasons why many modern critics are reevaluating Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Heck, we barely touched on Xander, the problematic proto-incel that Joss Whedon wrote to be his class clown self-insert character. However, there is one ironclad defense of the show and its characters that fans continue to embrace: namely, that Buffy is stronger for having flawed and complex characters.
Most of the complex aspects of Buffy herself are arguably part of the character’s evolution. Sure, she falls in love with a couple of hot murderers, but she eventually breaks up with both of them. The Slayer works for a patriarchal group of old farts, but after a few years, she makes it clear that they now have to work for her. Heck, she even bounces back from the worst self-destructive streak in human history to save the entire world from the first evil it had ever known.
If Buffy didn’t start out as such a flawed character, such evolution would have been impossible; plus, it’s worth noting that we shouldn’t hold the Slayer to higher standards than we do popular male characters. Does anyone think Walter White or Don Draper are bad characters because they are selfish and self-destructive? No, we understand that these flaws simply make them human, and that humanity makes the characters all the more compelling.
In this sense, Buffy’s flaws make her show that much more relevant: Buffy the Vampire Slayer may be a silly comedy show from the ‘90s, but it has the epic stakes and realistically damaged characters of modern prestige TV. It’s a wild combo that has helped the Slayer’s show remain a fan-favorite for decades. Now that a Buffy revival is around the corner, we can only hope the new show retains the complex characters and murky morality that made the original series such a groundbreaking pop culture phenomenon.
Reader, they cast her. The White Lotus‘ Aimee Lou Wood is set to star in a new adaptation of Charlotte Brontë‘s classic novel Jane Eyre. Wood will play the title role in the TV miniseries, which is currently being shopped to broadcasters and streamers by production company Working Title. In the novel, which is considered one of the most influential romances ever published, Jane Eyre is a woman with an unhappy past who becomes a governess for the mysterious Mr. Rochester, and gradually falls in love with him.
According to reports, the series will be adapted by Miriam Battye, who recently won a WGA Award for her work on Apple’s mind-bending hit Succession. It’s the latest in a series of high-profile projects for Wood, who earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her role as the naive bride of Walton Goggins in the third season of The White Lotus. Next up, she’s set to star alongside Angelina Jolie in the comedy Anxious People, and with Johnny Flynn in the historical drama The Idiots. She’s also signed to portray Pattie Boyd, the English model and photographer who married George Harrison at the height of Beatlemania in Sam Mendes‘ wildly ambitious The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event.
Has ‘Jane Eyre’ Been Adapted for the Screen?
As one of the most famous novels in the history of the English language, Jane Eyre has been adapted for both the big and small screens repeatedly. Notable silver screen adaptations include the 1943 version, with Joan Fontaine, Orson Welles, and a young Elizabeth Taylor; Franco Zeffirelli’s 1996 version, with Charlotte Gainsbourg and William Hurt; and the most recent version, directed by Cary Fukunaga and starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender. The BBC has adapted it for television repeatedly, dating back to 1956; the most recent adaptation was broadcast in 2006, with Ruth Wilson and Toby Stephens in the lead roles. It has also served as the framework for a number of indirect adaptations and inspirations, including Val Lewton‘s 1943 horror classic I Walked With a Zombie and Wide Sargasso Sea, a novel written from the perspective of Mr. Rochester’s first wife, which has been filmed twice.
The new adaptation comes on the heels of Emerald Fennell‘s successful adaptation of Wuthering Heights, the only novel by Charlotte’s sister, Emily Brontë. There’s no word yet whether an adaptation of the works of Anne Brontë is in development to complete the trifecta.
A new TV adaptation of Jane Eyre is in development; no release date has yet been announced. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates.
- Release Date
-
January 20, 1996
- Runtime
-
112 minutes
- Writers
-
Franco Zeffirelli
- Producers
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Bob Weinstein, Dyson Lovell, Guy East, Harvey Weinstein
The fallout from Sunday’s BAFTA Film Awards is still unfolding. What should have been a night celebrating cinema instead sparked outrage after a Tourette’s campaigner involuntarily shouted a racial slur during the live ceremony.
Now, the controversy has claimed a high-profile resignation. Award-winning creative Jonte Richardson has stepped down from a BAFTA judging panel, accusing the organization of mishandling the moment and failing to protect members of the Black community.
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BAFTA Judge Resigns After Ceremony Controversy
Jonte Richardson announced he is withdrawing from the BAFTA emerging talent judging panel following the incident at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
During the awards, campaigner John Davidson was heard shouting the N-word while Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan were presenting on stage.
Richardson did not hold back in his criticism. Writing on LinkedIn, he said per the Daily Mail, “After considerable soul-searching, I feel compelled to withdraw from the Bafta emerging talent judging panel.”
He described the organization’s response as “utterly unforgivable” and added, “I cannot and will not contribute my time, energy and expertise to an organisation that has repeatedly failed to safeguard the dignity of its Black guests, members and the Black creative community.”
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Richardson also referenced BAFTA’s long history of systemic racism and said remaining involved would feel like “condoning its behaviour.”
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BAFTA And BBC Face Questions Over Broadcast Delay
The incident happened during a two-hour delayed broadcast. According to Deadline, Warner Bros executives immediately raised concerns and requested the slur be removed before airing.
BAFTA insiders confirmed conversations took place, though it remains unclear whether those concerns were relayed to the BBC and production company Penny Lane TV in time.
The BBC later issued its own apology, acknowledging that “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the Bafta Film Awards.”
The corporation explained the outburst stemmed from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome and admitted, “We apologise that this was not edited out prior to broadcast and it will now be removed from the version on BBC iPlayer.”
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Sources also claimed producers in the gallery did not hear the word at the time, adding to confusion over how it made it into the final broadcast.
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BAFTA Responds And Apologises To Guests
BAFTA released a formal statement taking responsibility. A spokesperson said, “At the Bafta Film Awards last night, our guests heard very offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many. We want to acknowledge the harm this has caused, address what happened, and apologise to all.”
The organization emphasized that Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome, had been introduced to the audience in advance, with attendees warned they might hear involuntary tics.
“Such tics are in no way a reflection of an individual’s beliefs and are not intentional,” the statement read.
BAFTA added, “We take full responsibility for putting our guests in a very difficult situation, and we apologise to all.” The organization also thanked Lindo and Jordan for their “incredible dignity and professionalism.”
Speaking later at the Warner Bros afterparty, Lindo revealed that he and Jordan did what they had to do,” though he admitted he wished “someone from Bafta spoke to us afterwards.”
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BAFTA Incident Sparks Debate About Tourette’s Syndrome
Davidson, who was made an MBE in 2019 for his advocacy work, later shared his own statement.
He said he was “deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning.”
He also explained that he chose to leave the auditorium early in the ceremony as he was aware of the distress his tics were causing.
He thanked BAFTA for informing the audience in advance and said he felt welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be impossible for him.
The NHS explains that Tourette syndrome causes sudden, repetitive sounds or movements, and in rare cases, can include offensive language that cannot be controlled. There is no cure, though treatment can help manage symptoms.
Davidson attended the ceremony to celebrate “I Swear,” a film based on his life, starring Robert Aramayo, which won Best Casting, while Aramayo took home Best Actor and the EE Rising Star award.
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BAFTA Backlash Draws Response From Advocacy Groups
The controversy has triggered strong reactions across social media and advocacy groups.
Charity Tourettes Action said it deeply understood the harm caused by the slur but stressed the importance of education.
The organization stated, “tics are involuntary. They are not a reflection of a person’s beliefs, intentions or character.”
It also described the online backlash as “deeply saddening,” reminding the public that individuals with Tourette’s may say words they “do not mean, do not endorse, and feel great distress about afterwards.”
Tourette Scotland echoed that sentiment, saying there was “no meaning” behind the outburst and describing the community as “kind and very empathetic, and would never like to upset anyone with their tics.”
Meanwhile, Scottish actor Thierry Mabonga, who appears in “I Swear,” defended Davidson in a TikTok video.
“John cannot control what he says. In fact, that’s the whole point of why we’re making this film,” he said, later adding that “someone who has Tourette’s should not apologise for having it.”
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Kelly Cutrone, a former “Top Model” judge and Bravo star, also pointed out Manuel’s “spray tanning” and “filler” in an incendiary social media comment.
Team USA Star Jack Hughes
Downplays Trump Call Backlash
… We Love The Women’s Team!!!
Published
Team USA’s toothless hero Jack Hughes is making it clear there’s nothing but love between the men’s and women’s gold medal-winning squads … saying any backlash being thrown around is the result of haters hating.
Fresh off burying the game-winner at the 2026 Winter Olympics — while bleeding and missing two front teeth — Hughes told the Daily Mail the D.C. invite from President Donald Trump is nothing but an honor.
🚨BREAKING: Reporter ask Team USA hockey star Jack Hughes “Are you excited to go to the White House to meeting Trump?”
“Yeah we’re excited!”
“Everything is so political. We’re athletes, we’re proud to represent the US. And when you get the chance to go the White House to meet… pic.twitter.com/bB9dY7e1wt
@KMGGaryde
“We’re so proud to represent the U.S.,” Hughes said as the team partied in Miami. “When you get the chance to go to the White House and meet the president, we’re proud to be Americans and that’s so patriotic.”
“No matter what your views are, we’re super excited to go!”
Trump extended the invite during a postgame call set up by FBI Director Kash Patel … even joking he’d “be impeached” if he didn’t invite the women’s team too. Some of the guys could be heard shouting, “We’re in!”
The U.S. women’s squad ultimately declined due to prior academic and professional commitments … saying they were honored but couldn’t make it — and the internet immediately turned it into a political firestorm.
Hughes isn’t having it.
“People are so negative out there,” he said. “They’re just trying to find a reason to put people down and make something out of almost nothing.”
He also shot down any talk of friction between the teams … saying the men and women were celebrating together at 3:30 AM in the Olympic Village cafeteria after the gold-medal win — and the men’s locker room has nothing but respect for the women’s roster.
Flavor Flav is offering the U.S. women a Vegas-style victory party instead, posting on Bluesky that he’ll host them with “nice dinners and shows and good times” and even try to line up hotel and airline sponsors to “celebrate these women for real for real.”
From losing teeth on the ice to standing front and center in a political spotlight, Hughes has become the face of this Olympic run — and whether critics like it or not, Team USA’s golden boys are proud, patriotic and unapologetic.
Jaidyn Alexis has broken her silence and reacted to Blueface and Nevaeh Akira’s recent pregnancy announcement.
RELATED: New Addition! Karlissa Saffold Harvey Reacts To Blueface & Nevaeh Akira’s Apparent Pregnancy Announcement
Jaidyn Alexis Breaks Silence & Reacts To Blueface & Nevaeh Akira’s Pregnancy Announcement
On Monday, February 23, Jaidyn Alexis took to a Twitch stream to show off her cooking skills for viewers. Apparently, amid the stream and her chat with viewers, Alexis addressed Blueface and Nevaeh Akira’s recent pregnancy announcement.
“I don’t feel no type of way,” Alexis explained. “One: because I’m not the one that has to take care of the baby… Amen. Thank you! Two: I’m so stable up here, down here, right here, like, it don’t matter to me, like, do your thing. I wish nothing but the best — to anybody, to everyone involved.”
Ultimately, Alexis explained that she’s “cool,” knows that what’s for her will be for her, and is happy that she already has her boy and her girl.
“There’s nothing outside of this house that will ever affect inside of this house,” she reiterated.
Social Media Weighs In On Jaidyn Alexis’ Reaction
Social media users reacted to Jaidyn Alexis’ reaction to Blueface and Nevaeh Akira’s pregnancy announcement in TSR’s comment section.
Instagram user @99.1kitchen__ wrote, “A wise woman once said …NOTHING”
While Instagram user @princessbonnie.jb added, “she tryna convince yall or me ?”
Instagram user @realnicolezavala wrote, “Theres nothing outside of this house that will effect anything inside of this house 🤏🏻🎯 clockit”
While Instagram user @bevioo added, “When jaidyn move on to a man I’ll believe her . She only move on to girls because blue gave her permission to do that . Once she get a man I’ll know she done”
Instagram user @sylent_grind wrote, “YEAP, she cried for sure ….and that ok 🙃”
While Instagram user @iamelishamichelle added, “That was too much explaining to not care”
Instagram user @exoticeb_ wrote, “She lying but it’s ok”
While Instagram user @chesssybaby added, “I wouldn’t have even addressed anything if I didn’t care🥴…………….. but that’s just me”
Instagram user @xo.strawberrymeng.xo wrote, “That part. Im sure after rock can nothinh phase her literally”
More On Blueface & Nevaeh Akira’s Pregnancy Announcement
As The Shade Room previously reported, on Sunday, February 22, Blueface and Nevaeh Akira took to a Twitch livestream to share the results of Akira’s pregnancy test. Ultimately, Blue ended up congratulating Akira, telling her, “Congratulations, you’re having a Blueface baby!” To note, Blue and Akira’s forthcoming baby will be her second child and Blue’s fourth.
Afterward, Karlissa Saffold Harvey took to her Instagram Story to share her reaction to the news, per The Shade Room.
“Kids are a blessing if he happy I’m happy [heart hands emoji] congratulations to them both and may God bless the baby,” she wrote at the time.
Since then, Nevaeh Akira has shared her excitement about her and Blue’s new chapter. On Monday, February 23, she took to her Instagram Story to share a few messages, expressing her bliss.
RELATED: In Bliss! Nevaeh Akira Shares A Few Messages After She & Blueface Reveal They’re Expecting A Baby
What Do You Think Roomies?
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If you need a quick rich mom getup, Margot Robbie‘s latest outfit is the only inspiration you need. Her sporty half-zip pullover proves that the right sweater and jeans outfit can make you appear instantly put together. We found a similar knit style on major sale on Amazon, and it channels the same preppy-luxe vibe.
For a casual outing with friends in Paris, Robbie dressed like a French local in head-to-toe designer. She wore a black Chanel sweater, baggy jeans and pumps, along with an oversized Hermès tote bag that added an elevated twist. The outfit was understated yet undeniably classy, and it couldn’t be easier to recreate. You’ll rock this Amazon twin for errands, brunches and even Fridays at the office.
Like Robbie’s pick, this on-sale sweater features a chic quarter-zip design, ribbed material and a relaxed silhouette — three elements that make you look polished without trying too hard. Additionally, the loose fit and high neckline quietly lengthen the torso, making this sweater a flattering basic in your closet.
Tired of boots? So is Katie Holmes. The Alone Together actress actually ditched clunky kicks for elevated slippers that have an edgy yet incredibly polished look — and we found her $920 look for much less. They’re destined to replace your winter boots, sneakers and maybe even your sandals this spring. Holmes was spotted in Los […]
Made with a comfortable cashmere blend, this oversized sweater is buttery soft, stretchy and lightweight enough to keep you temperate during school pick-ups and grocery store runs. The medium thickness makes it ideal for year-round wear, but it’s especially perfect to throw on now as we go from winter to spring. Don’t be surprised if you live in this sweater!
Shoppers rave about this quiet luxury staple, highlighting the cloud-like comfort, flattering fit and expensive look. One wrote, “I normally shop at designer and higher-end retailers. This was as good, or better than many of them . . . looks and feels much more expensive.” They went back for other colors, and we see why!
Cashmere-blend sweaters are rarely under $50, so we see it as a sign to snag this Robbie-inspired option in black (plus a bright color for spring). Score your new everyday sweater before it sells out!
Get the Suuksess Oversized Cashmere Pullover for $38 (was $57) on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Not what you’re looking for? Shop other sweaters on Amazon and don’t forget to check out Amazon’s Daily Deals here!
In case you missed it, everyone’s wearing baby blue right now. The latest star to embrace the trend? Pamela Anderson, who recently rocked the chicest blue coat that, unlike many puffers, is unexpectedly flattering. The key lies in the cut, which hits right at the waist without overpowering her frame. A similar cropped style will […]
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