Entertainment
9 Forgotten Spy Shows That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
With covert operations, high-stakes missions, and amazingly thrilling characters navigating worlds built on secrecy and deception, spy television has long been an entertaining genre to swim through. While there exist many flashy hits that have dominated the spotlight over the years, there are also others that have been horribly overshadowed, despite offering compelling storytelling, depth, and fascinating tension. Over the course of many years, these overlooked spy shows have only grown more captivating and far more impactful today, despite their lack of audience.
Shows in the spy genre like the 2007 series The Company, which explores decades of CIA operations during the Cold War, and Sleeper Cell, which chooses to focus more on moral complexity rather than spectacle, are somehow two forgotten gems in the realm of spy television. Compiled on this list are shows that may have slipped from memory for many viewers, but have also only grown better with time.
‘Archer’ (2009–2023)
This bold adult animated series is definitely an unconventional approach to the spy genre. Archer follows the narcissistic spy Sterling Archer (H. Jon Benjamin), who works at a dysfunctional private spy agency where Lana Kane (Aisha Tyler), his mother Malory Archer (Jessica Walter), Cheryl Tunt (Judy Greer), and Cyril Figgis (Chris Parnell) turn every operation into a contest of vanity, competence, and personal sabotage.
With an entertaining mesh of absurd humor and espionage, Archer delivers a uniquely toned watch that remains fresh across multiple seasons. It’s a distinct spy show that has only grown more appreciated by its niche fanbase over time. Archer‘s writing is dense enough that it has survived repeat viewing by audiences, and because of its retro-modern visual design that still looks terrific, it stands as an underrated gem that has aged quite nicely over the years.
‘Alias’ (2001–2006)
Alias offers audiences its merger of genuine emotional strain and costume-change caper energy that is still a blast to watch today. The series centers around Sydney Bristow (Jennifer Garner), who begins as what seems to be a young operative in a black-ops organization, only for her to learn that SD-6 is not a legitimate branch of the CIA at all.
Alias has aged so well over time due to its early seasons being ruthlessly engineered entertainment. From the father-daughter material that still lands, to Garner remaining a star-level center of gravity, and the show’s puzzle-box plotting that now reads less as an overcomplication and more as an early template for serialized genre television on American broadcast networks, Alias wields an enduring appeal. It’s a series whose storytelling laid the groundwork for many modern spy shows, and its mix of action and emotion makes it a defining entry that continues to hold up quite well.
‘Sleeper Cell’ (2005–2006)
This series may have had a short run, but it’s a sleeper hit that delivers a grounded and intense look at undercover counterterrorism. Sleeper Cell focuses on FBI agent Darwyn Al-Sayeed (Michael Ealy), who is sent undercover into a jihadist sleeper cell led by Farik (Oded Fehr), whose charisma and discipline make the infiltration morally and psychologically unstable from the start.
With its exploration of the complexities of infiltration, Sleeper Cell offers audiences a rather realistic tone. The show’s realism gives it a lot of weight that still resonates with viewers quite well. Sleeper Cell is a powerful and often overlooked spy drama that has aged very nicely due to its avoidance of chest-thumping patriotism, instead favoring a raw and nuanced portrayal of counterterrorism. The series wields a seriousness that is now even more valued today because it refuses to present a cartoon view of terror or counterterror. Sleeper Cell may be largely overlooked due to its short run and its specificity to a particular historical moment, but it is still considered a compellingly grounded take on the spy genre that continues to impress.
‘Covert Affairs’ (2010–2014)
Covert Affairs is a spy thriller that blends emotional stakes with globe-trotting missions. The spy series follows young CIA agent Annie Walker (Piper Perabo), who is pushed into CIA field work far faster than expected because of her analytic instincts, language skills, and connection to a high-priority target.
Covert Affairs ages so well because it is actually a lot smarter than its packaging suggests. The series may initially begin as a sleek young-agent procedural, but it takes a gradual turn as it dives into a more serialized story about burned assets, confidence games, and the heavy price of Annie’s increasing willingness to improvise outside formal approval. Despite its writing quietly maturing across its run, Covert Affairs remains pretty underappreciated. While the show is mostly forgotten, it does stand as a spy series that hosts a mix of espionage and character-driven storytelling, which allows it to be just as enjoyable as it was over a decade ago.
‘Patriot’ (2015–2018)
This uniquely offbeat approach to espionage with dark humor has definitely earned itself quite a cult following. Patriot focuses on non-official-cover intelligence officer, John Tavner (Michael Dorman), whose task sounds simple—stop Iranian nuclear funding by getting money from one place to another—but whose execution becomes a flood of false identities, bad improvisations, broken bones, and emotional collapse.
Patriot may not be as old as the other entries on this list, but over the years, since the show’s premiere, it has aged extremely well due to its originality—nothing else moves or sounds like it. From the ritual humiliation and the deadpan folk songs to the corporate camouflage, each small fix tends to often spiral into deeper moral consequences. Unfortunately, due to poor marketing, Patriot has gone mostly unnoticed and has never found its mainstream audience. The series is a uniquely layered and underappreciated espionage good time that has definitely earned its place on this list of finely aged gems.
‘Nikita’ (2010–2013)
Nikita is an action drama that is perfect for any enthusiast of spy thrillers, as it gifts audiences a reimagined story of a rogue operative seeking revenge. The series centers on the rogue escapee of the secret agency Division, Nikita (Maggie Q), as she wars against the organization.
With a strong female lead and action sequences that give it a lasting appeal, Nikita has aged really well over the years since its release, with its much cleaner and tougher story than its CW branding suggests. The show remains a solid example of character-driven espionage that wields legible action and strong emotional continuity. Nikita may have been filed away by reviewers as an all-early-2010s CW action show under disposable teen TV, leading it to go pretty much forgotten by any mainstream audience, but it still delivers intriguing characters, strong action, and an enduring charm.
‘The Little Drummer Girl’ (2018)
This immersive thriller offers audiences a slow-burn espionage story rooted in psychological tension. The Little Drummer Girl focuses on a young actress, Charlie (Florence Pugh), whose gift for performance makes her irresistible to an Israeli intelligence operation targeting a Palestinian militant network.
The Little Drummer Girl is a finely aged series, thanks to its visually and emotionally rigorous narrative. The show’s control of rhythm and image gives it tactile seductiveness that audiences still appreciate, but its true strength comes from the series’ moral architecture. The Little Drummer Girl has found itself trapped as a forgotten gem because of its rather finite miniseries format, which often disappears in the vast and fast-paced world of streaming. It may not be the most acknowledged series of today, but it definitely stands as a beautifully aged spy thrill ride.
‘The Company’ (2007)
The Company is an ambitious spy series that is constantly overlooked for the flashier hits in the genre. The TNT series follows three CIA operatives over the course of several years, tracing their careers from post–World War II Europe through the height of the Cold War.
The Company is a genuinely unique watch and remains so even now. It has aged so well over the years due to the easier granted acceptance of ambitious series. In the early 2000s, The Company came across as much too overstuffed to be truly entertaining. Today, even with a very minimal audience, the series is lauded as an underrated gem that offers audiences a historical scope as it delivers espionage elements through a broader lens than what is usually seen within the genre. The Company may not be the most watched spy series out there, but it’s a fantastically ambitious project that has aged quite nicely.
‘Spy’ (2011–2012)
This British spy drama offers audiences a comedic twist to the espionage genre. The 2011 series, Spy, centers around a failed salesman and struggling father, Tim Elliott (Darren Boyd), who believes he’s applying for a dull office job and instead gets recruited into MI5 training.
With comedy that makes its entirety genuinely charming, Spy delivers a refreshing break from traditional spy shows. The series reimagines the spy world through a lighthearted lens as an unlikely agent navigates absurd missions. Spy ages so well because the series’ comedy is rooted in character rather than mere outrageous parody. It has been largely forgotten since British sitcoms tend to vanish with alarming speed without endless streaming circulation and word-of-mouth worship. Spy is a fantastic counterexample to the idea that spy television has to be serious to be any good, making it an extraordinary watch for modern TV, despite it going mostly unnoticed today.
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At 88, Jane Fonda isn’t just aging well — she’s redefining what great mature skin can look like. Her complexion is consistently smooth, luminous and full of that unmistakable vitality, with a firmness and radiance that doesn’t rely on heavy makeup or over-the-top treatments. Naturally, when someone’s skin looks that healthy and refined at her age, you want to know what’s actually in their routine.
According to InStyle, Fonda uses L’Oreal Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Serum — a luxe-feeling formula available at CVS for $44. A longtime ambassador for the brand, Fonda’s endorsement of the serum makes it feel like more than just a one-off recommendation. It’s a product she’s consistently stood by over time — and one clearly suited for maintaining smooth, radiant-looking skin at any age.
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Amal Clooney just proved that achieving glossy, expensive-looking hair doesn’t require a luxury budget. While attending a Cartier event in Milan, the human rights lawyer stepped out with voluminous waves and a silky, high-shine finish that looked straight out of a high-end campaign. The surprising part? Her ultra-polished look wasn’t created with a pricey salon […]
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Jessica Alba gave fans a peek inside her Oscars night prep, and while her glam was predictably flawless, it was her skin that really stood out. Smooth, glowing and perfectly prepped, her complexion had that lit-from-within finish that makeup alone can’t fake — the kind that starts with the right base. In a recent Vanity Fair […]
Love appears to have taken center stage once again for Harry Styles, and this time, it may be leading straight down the aisle.
After weeks of speculation, new photos and insider details have fueled reports that the global pop star is now engaged to actress Zoë Kravitz.
What started as a low-key romance has quickly evolved into something far more serious, with sources describing a whirlwind relationship that has left those around them unsurprised by the latest development.
Speculations about Harry Styles and Zoë Kravitz being engaged reached new heights this week, and according to insiders, the speculation isn’t far off.
“He is completely smitten,” a source told Page Six, adding, “He would jump off a cliff for her.”
The feeling appears to be mutual, with Kravitz described as “on cloud nine” as their relationship reaches this new level.
Their romance first caught attention in August 2025 when the pair were seen strolling through Rome together, looking close and comfortable.
Around the same time, they were also spotted in London, where their chemistry was impossible to ignore.
What initially looked like a casual connection quickly gained momentum, with insiders hinting early on that this was something much deeper than a short-lived fling.
Styles And Kravitz Relationship Moved At Lightning Speed
As the relationship progressed, those close to the couple began to notice just how quickly things were developing.
One insider summed it up simply, telling Page Six, “I feel like they’ve gone from 0 to 60.”
The fast pace didn’t seem to concern either of them, especially given the challenges of dating in the public eye.
“It’s so hard to date as a celebrity … Harry wouldn’t have gone public with Zoë if it wasn’t anything,” the source added.
By early 2026, the connection between Styles and Kravitz appeared stronger than ever. Reports suggested that Kravitz had already been telling people in her inner circle that Styles is “her soulmate,” a detail that only added fuel to the growing engagement rumors.
Despite their rising profile as a couple, they have remained relatively private, choosing to keep their relationship out of the spotlight whenever possible.
Still, they haven’t been completely out of view. The pair have been seen enjoying low-key outings, including walks around Brooklyn, and were recently photographed holding hands as they headed into a “Saturday Night Live” after-party following Styles’ hosting appearance.
Zoë Kravitz Steps Out With Harry Styles In North London, Igniting Engagement Talk
Kravitz and Harry Styles fueled major engagement buzz during a recent outing in North London this week, where the couple was spotted enjoying a low-key stroll while dressed in coordinated, effortlessly stylish looks.
As The Blast reported, Kravitz wore a taupe trench coat layered over a white button-down shirt with brown trousers and loafers, accessorized with sunglasses and a baseball cap, while the singer opted for a navy Harrington jacket, matching pants, and white Vans.
The pair kept a relatively low profile, both wearing caps and sunglasses, and carried shoulder bags as they walked side by side through the neighborhood.
Their outing appeared relaxed and intimate, with the two staying close and moving in sync, reflecting their growing bond.
However, what drew the most attention was Kravitz’s jewelry. She wore a large diamond ring on her left ring finger. “You couldn’t miss the ring on her finger. It is absolutely huge,” an onlooker remarked.
Styles And Kravitz Bring Past Relationships Into Focus
Both stars come into this relationship with a history of high-profile romances, making their current connection even more intriguing to fans.
Zoë Kravitz was previously married to Karl Glusman from 2019 to 2020 before moving on with Channing Tatum. The two became engaged in 2023 but ultimately ended their relationship a year later.
Harry Styles, on the other hand, has been linked to several well-known names over the years, including Taylor Russell, Olivia Wilde, Kendall Jenner, and Taylor Swift.
Just months before his relationship with Kravitz became public, he was even spotted kissing producer Ella Kenny at the Glastonbury Festival.
Harry Styles Claps Back At Queerbaiting Claims With Bold ‘SNL’ Joke
The engagement news comes weeks after Harry Styles directly addressed queer-baiting accusations during his opening monologue on “Saturday Night Live,” and the actual details are very specific.
According to The Blast, he said, “People seemed to pay a lot of attention to the clothes I was wearing,” adding that “some people accused me of something called ‘queerbaiting.’”
He then joked, “Did it ever occur to you that maybe you don’t know everything about me, Dad?”
The monologue built up to a comedic moment where he kissed cast member Ben Marshall on stage.
After the kiss, Styles turned to the camera and delivered the punchline: “Now that’s queerbaiting.”
He also joked about his personal life, calling himself “tremendously boring” and poking fun at how people overanalyze everything he does.
Entertainment
Elizabeth Smart wins bodybuilding competition: 'I am so proud of my body and I want to celebrate it'
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The kidnapping survivor took first place in the Fit Model Novice category at the Wasatch Warrior competition in Salt Lake City.
Jamie Lynn Sigler is reflecting on the last moment she shared with actor James Gandolfini, highlighting their close bond. The two worked together on “The Sopranos” for the show’s entire run, portraying father and daughter Tony and Meadow Soprano.
She also spoke about how her on-screen father supported her throughout her battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), recalling his kindness, encouragement, and the lasting impact he had on her both during and after their time on the series.
In an interview for a cover story with Us Weekly, Jamie Lynn Sigler recalled the last time she saw her on-screen father, James Gandolfini, before he passed away in 2013. It was just months before his death, and they saw each other at a casino. “I was happy to see him in a beautiful marriage and in a beautiful space in his life,” the actress said.
“We were both like, ‘We’re good. Look at us’,” said Sigler, adding that Gandolfini asked her if she needed his help walking. At that time, Sigler had not revealed to the public that she had MS, an autoimmune disease that attacks the nervous system, and the actor was one of the only few people she shared her diagnosis with.
“I said ‘I’m OK,’ and he said, ‘Alright, you tell me if you need help.’ I remember him being proud. It was a beautiful moment,” Sigler said.
James Gandolfini Was The Only One On ‘The Sopranos’ Who Knew Of The Actress’ Diagnosis
Elsewhere in the interview, Sigler shared how Gandolfini helped lessen her burden as she battled her disease in secret. The actress was diagnosed with MS when she was 20 years old, around 2001 to 2002, but it wasn’t until 2016 that she shared it with the world, fearing that going public with her ailment would have limited her career opportunities.
Sigler told Us Weekly that Gandolfini would often pull her aside and ask how she was doing. “But never at work and never in front of anybody. It shifted a lot of the energy for me, just knowing that somebody knows my secret,” she said.
In a 2024 episode of the “Work in Progress” podcast, Sigler talked about the moment she told Gandolfini about her MS. “I remember him putting his big paw on my shoulder and he’s like, ‘Whatever you need, I’m not gonna tell anyone, but whatever you need, you let me know’,” Sigler recalled, adding that the actor was “the most loving, gentle presence.”
The Moment Jamie Lynn Sigler Found Out About Her On-Screen Father’s Death
In 2013, Gandolfini was on vacation in Italy with his family when he had a heart attack. He was discovered unconscious in his hotel bathroom in Rome, and paramedics attempted life-saving measures on the way to the hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival. He was 51 years old.
In an episode of “Oprah: Where Are They Now?” Sigler recalled the moment she learned about Gandolfini’s death. She received a call from one of her “Sopranos” co-stars, Vince Curatola, who said, “All of us were confused as to who should call you because we know you’re pregnant… but Jim’s gone.”
Sigler said she was shocked and cried a lot. “It was surreal, because how many times had we done funeral scenes as a cast? And to lay to rest our leader — he was the sun and we were the planets all around him. So the whole ‘Sopranos’ life sort of came to an end at that moment,” the actress shared.
The Actress Learned Numerous Lessons From Gandolfini
A couple of years after Gandolfini’s death, Sigler shared that the actor taught her to be more assertive on set and to gain confidence, telling her that her opinion mattered and that part of acting was collaborating, not just being directed.
“He taught me how to improv a little bit, and he taught me to trust my instincts,” she said, adding that she learned a lot from the actor just by being around him on set. “You just felt like everything’s going to be okay… he was just your leader and your protector,” Sigler said of Gandolfini’s presence.
Jamie Lynn Sigler Shares James Gandolfini’s Touching Gesture
In a 2024 conversation with Justin Long on the podcast “Life is Short,” Sigler recalled how Gandolfini supported her indirectly, in addition to always checking in with her. The actress said that her “Sopranos” father had always been protective of her, especially after he found out she had MS. “I found out after his death that he donated to MS organizations constantly for me,” Sigler told Long.
Sigler shared her MS diagnosis in 2016 via an interview with PEOPLE, saying that she was finally ready to “live my truth.” “I don’t want to hold a secret where it feels like I have something to be ashamed of or something to hide,” she said.
Sigler has lived with MS for more than 20 years and hosts the podcast “MeSsy” with Christina Applegate, who is also living with the condition.
The fantasy genre can be broken down into various sub-genres, such as the magic-heavy high fantasy or the more gritty dark fantasy. One sub-genre is sword-and-sorcery, defined by its emphasis on action and adventure, as sword-wielding heroes battle all sorts of monsters on their quests, which often veer towards self-serving rather than altruistic. Magic is usually presented as a rare and powerful thing wielded by villains, so the heroes usually save the day through strength of arms and a cunning mind.
A good number of fantasy movies over the decades can be called sword-and-sorcery. Impressive effects, beautiful scenery, and compelling actors turn what could easily be silly or pulpy stories into daring quests full of monsters and mystery, making them a great and timeless watch. With the upcoming release of Masters of the Universe, now it’s a great time to look at the all-time best sword-and-sorcery movies, must-watches for any self-respecting fantasy fan.
‘Dragonheart’ (1996)
A dragon (Sir Sean Connery) gives up half of his heart to save the dying Prince Einon (Lee Oakes and David Thewlis), but the Prince soon reveals himself a tyrant, prompting his trainer, Sir Bowen (Dennis Quaid), to swear vengeance against all dragons, whom he blames for the change. Years later, Bowen has become a skilled dragon hunter and is followed by the Monk Brother Gilbert (Pete Postlethwaite), who wishes to record his exploits. Bowen eventually finds the last dragon in existence, not realizing it’s the one that saved Einon, and after fighting to a stalemate, they instead form a partnership to scam villagers out of gold.
Dragonheart is more light-hearted than other sword-and-sorcery stories, but it still hits a lot of the required tropes, especially through Bowen’s arc about becoming disillusioned with the chivalric code and rediscovering his faith. In between the lighthearted jokes are a lot of dark and melancholic moments as well, from the deaths of the dragons to the extent of Einon’s cruelty. While the CGI for the dragon, nicknamed Draco by Bowen, is showing its age, it’s still impressive for the time, and, combined with Connery’s performance, goes a long way in making him one of cinema’s most iconic dragons.
‘Willow’ (1988)
Willow Ufgood (Warwick Davis) is a Nelwyn farmer with a loving family who wishes to one day practice magic. One day, he discovers a baby named Elora Danan, who is prophesied to bring about the downfall of the tyrannical sorceress queen Bavmorda (Jean Marsh). Aided by two brownies named Rool and Franjean (Kevin Pollak and Rick Overton), a charismatic swordsman named Madmartigan (Val Kilmer), and a cursed sorceress named Fin Raziel (Patricia Hayes), Willow tries to protect Elora from Bavmorda’s forces.
Willow is one of those movies that doesn’t take itself too seriously or switch up the status quo, instead offering a fun, creative experience. That’s not to say it doesn’t play around with some classic tropes: Willow himself deviates from the usual farmboy to wizard archetype by being a father and relying just as much on his sleight-of-hand tricks as his budding sorcery. Speaking of sorcery, the movie uses impressive morphing technology to pull off some of the best transformation scenes in fantasy, especially when Willow tries to restore Fin Raziel to her human form.
‘Fire and Ice’ (1983)
The sorcerer king Nekron (Stephen Mendel) and his mother Juliana (Susan Tyrrell) use their powers over ice to spread glaciers south and weaken other human nations for conquest, until only the volcanic kingdom of Firekeep resists them. Under the guise of messengers, Juliana sends her minions to kidnap Princess Teegra (Maggie Roswell) to be Nekron’s bride. She escapes into the wilds and finds allies in Larn (William Ostrander), a warrior whose people were killed by Nekron, and Darkwolf (Steve Sandor), a mysterious warrior who is committed to killing the sorcerers.
Fire and Ice comes from the bizarre mind of legendary animator Ralph Bakshi and is a beautiful example of pulpy dark fantasy stories. It’s a standard sword-and-sorcery about daring heroes overthrowing an evil tyrant, but it carves an identity for itself thanks to its gritty and interesting worldbuilding, such as Nekron and Juliana’s powers over ice or the people of Firekeep using pterosaurs as mounts. The film is also gorgeous to look at, with stylistic backgrounds that look like heavy metal covers, and detailed rhotoscoping to give the characters realistic movements.
‘The Flight of Dragons’ (1982)
When the Green Wizard Carolinus (Harry Morgan) realizes that the world is turning away from belief in magic and towards logic and science, he summons his brothers, the Gold Wizard Lo Tae Zhao (Don Messick), Blue Wizard Solarius (Bob McFadden), and Red Wizard Ommadon (James Earl Jones), to create a hidden world where magic can continue to thrive. Ommadon refuses to help and instead vows to use his magic to enhance mankind’s vices so that they destroy themselves, prompting Carolinus to put together a quest to steal Ommadon’s crown and rob him of his powers. At the suggestion of the ancient force of Antiquity (Paul Frees), Carolinus also summons Peter Dickinson (John Ritter), a 20th-century man with a love of both science and magic.
The Flight of Dragons is an oft-overlooked animated film from the partnership of Topcraft—the predecessor to Studio Ghibli—and Rankin/Bass, known for their stop-motion holiday specials. The movie is a beautiful love letter to the fantasy genre, playing into classic tropes while also exploring certain topics in greater detail, such as offering scientific answers for why dragons can fly and breathe fire. What sticks out most about it are its themes, which explore the loss of wonder in the world, idealism vs cynicism, and heroism in the face of impossible odds.
‘Jason and the Argonauts’ (1963)
Jason (Todd Armstrong) is the rightful king of Thessaly and is watched over by the Goddess Hera (Honor Blackman) after his family is killed by the usurper Pelias (Douglas Wilmer). As a young man, Jason rescues Pelias, not knowing who he is, and explains that he plans to rally support to overthrow the tyrant. Pelias encourages him to sail forth and find the Golden Fleece, hoping that the various monsters and dangers on the way will kill Jason.
Jason and the Argonauts is a grand epic that does justice to its mythological origins, thanks in large part to the now-legendary stop-motion effects by Ray Harryhausen. The creatures look and move as if they come from a different world, which helps to make them feel all the more mythological compared to the flesh-and-blood heroes. The choreography is also something to praise, especially during the climax, where Jason and his men fend off a horde of skeleton warriors, and yet every blow looks like it’s actually connecting.
‘Clash of the Titans’ (1981)
Angered that Zeus (Laurence Olivier) cursed her wicked son, Calibos (Neil McCarthy), for killing his herd of winged horses, Thetis (Dame Maggie Smith) transports Zeus’ demigod son, Perseus (Harry Hamlin), from Seriphos to the city of Joppa. Perseus cuts off Calibos’ hand, and in doing so is able to break his curse over the city’s princess, Andromeda (Judi Bowker). However, Thetis demands that Andromeda be sacrificed lest Joppa be destroyed by the Kraken, so Perseus must go on a quest to find the means to kill the monster.
Clash of the Titans is the last film Harryhausen worked on before his retirement, and it shows because the creatures have never looked better. The best example happens during the climax when Perseus and his companions descend into the lair of the gorgon Medusa. Her model is textured in such a way that it looks like living stone, further accentuated by her stiff, methodical movements, which make her all the more terrifying and fill the scene with tension and mounting dread.
‘Dragonslayer’ (1981)
The kingdom of Urland is plagued by the dragon Vermithrax Pejorative, who demands a tithe of virgin maidens, lest it burn the kingdom in its wrath. An expedition travels to Cragganmore to recruit the last great sorcerer, Ulrich (Sir Ralph Richardson), but he dies when trying to demonstrate his powers to the captain of the king’s guard, Tyrian (John Hallam). However, his magic amulet chooses his young apprentice, Galen (Peter MacNicol), as its new master, and he offers his services against the dragon.
Dragonslayer is an underrated masterpiece of dark fantasy thanks to its grounded storytelling and fantastic effects. Vermithrax is a masterfully realized creature, brought to life through a combination of life-sized animatronics, stop-motion puppets, and World War II flamethrowers, all of which work together to make the dragon look and feel like a real creature from an ancient past. As for the human characters, they stand out thanks to their moral complexities: no character is truly good or evil, and each of them follows the path that they think will spare the most lives, even if it means ending some in the short-term.
‘The 7th Voyage of Sinbad’ (1958)
Image via Columbia Pictures
En route to Baghdad to marry Princess Parisa of Chandra (Kathryn Grant), Sinbad the Sailor (Kerwin Mathews) stops at the Isle of Colossa, where his crew rescues a magician named Sokurah (Torin Thatcher) from a cyclops. Sokurah wants the crew to go back so he can recover his magic lamp, but Sinbad refuses, so Sokurah uses his magic to shrink Parisa to the size of a chess piece, thus threatening war between Baghdad and Chandra. To restore her, Sokurah requires the shell of a Roc egg, but the giant bird only nests on Colossa, forcing Sinbad to lead an expedition back to the monster-infested island.
The 7th Voyage of Sinbad is the first and greatest of the trilogy of Sinbad films featuring effects by Ray Harryhausen. Though not as technically impressive as the movies that would follow, it’s amazing how well they hold up, especially Sinbad’s iconic duel with an undead warrior. As for the characters, they perfectly embody their respective archetypes, especially Sokurah, who is given a fair bit of charisma from Thatcher.
‘The Thief of Bagdad’ (1940)
When King Ahmad (John Justin) of Baghdad disguises himself as a commoner to get to know his people, he is betrayed and imprisoned by his Grand Vizier, Jaffar (Conrad Veidt), who takes over the city. Ahmad escapes execution with the help of a young thief named Abu (Sabu), and the two make their way to Basra, ruled over by a toy-collecting Sultan (Miles Malleson). There, Ahmad falls in love with the Sultan’s daughter (June Duprez), but Jaffar also desires her, using his mastery over black magic to eliminate anyone in his way.
The Thief of Bagdad is a remake of the 1924 silent movie of the same name, and is perhaps the movie most responsible for our modern view of the One Thousand and One Nights. It was the first film to use blue-screen technology, which, combined with its elaborate sets and colorful outfits, makes the world feel lively and magical, especially when the characters encounter a towering wish-granting Djinn (Rex Ingram). Of the characters, Abu and Jaffar stand out the best, perfectly encapsulating the plucky thief and wicked sorcerer archetypes, and brought to life thanks to iconic performances from Sabu and Veidt.
‘Conan the Barbarian’ (1982)
After his village is destroyed by raiders, Conan (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is sold into slavery, where he is turned into a deadly pit fighter. After earning his freedom, Conan meets a thief named Subotai (Gerry Lopez) and a warrior named Valeria (Sandahl Bergman), and the three join forces to get rich by robbing a snake cult. However, Conan soon learns that the leader of the cult, Thulsa Doom (James Earl Jones), is the same man who slaughtered his family, sending Conan and his friends on a path of revenge and a meeting with an eccentric wizard (Mako).
Conan the Barbarian is one of the most important fantasy movies of the 1980s, and the film that made Schwarzenegger a major celebrity. With its impressive sets, epic soundtrack, and gritty battles, the movie transports audiences into a world where danger lurks around every corner and forces far stronger than humans are at work, be they gods or powerful spirits. It’s the ultimate sword-and-sorcery film because it makes you feel like you’re watching a legend in the making, as Conan fights against insurmountable odds in the name of vengeance and spite.
Clavicular’s turbulent rise online has hit another major obstacle, as the controversial influencer faces renewed scrutiny and platform penalties that could reshape his digital future.
Just months after losing his primary YouTube account, the 20-year-old has now seen additional channels removed, tightening the pressure on his growing brand.
The latest crackdown comes amid a wave of controversy surrounding his content, personal behavior, and increasingly extreme methods tied to his viral “looksmaxxing” persona.
Clavicular, whose real name is Braden Peters, is once again dealing with consequences from YouTube after the platform confirmed it had taken down more accounts linked to him.
According to a statement to PEOPLE, the action was not due to a fresh violation but part of enforcing earlier rules.
“We terminated the creator’s original channel back in November 2025,” a YouTube spokesperson explained, noting that the newly removed pages violated policies that stop banned creators from returning under new accounts.
The platform said the original ban stemmed from content that directed users to sites tied to illegal or regulated goods and services.
Under its terms, anyone removed from YouTube is barred from creating or managing new channels.
Clavicular Tried To Stay Hidden But YouTube Still Found Him
Despite attempts to remain under the radar, Clavicular’s additional channels were eventually traced back to him.
A source familiar with the situation said he initially managed to keep his connection to those accounts unclear.
“He did a pretty good job of obscuring that he was associated with that channel,” the insider shared.
However, once YouTube identified the links, an internal investigation was launched. The accounts were ultimately taken down for “circumvention,” meaning they were created to bypass an earlier ban.
“As soon as YouTube found out the channels existed, they knew that they needed to take those down,” the source said, adding that the platform has been “tracking” him closely.
There are also indications that YouTube is watching for any future attempts to return, with efforts focused on stopping “any more copies popping up.”
Clavicular Speaks Out As His Content And Courses Disappear
Following the removals, Clavicular took to X to share his frustration, claiming the takedown came “with no warning or explanation” and calling the situation “very sad.”
He pointed out that the deleted channels held livestream archives and programs designed to “help empower young men to be the best versions of themselves.”
Clavicular concluded, “Me and my team worked hard to ensure we followed YouTube’s TOS very strictly, blurring out all inappropriate language and sensitive topics. Could you please help in recovering accounts?”
Over the past year, the YouTuber’s influence has grown rapidly, with more than 1 million followers across platforms such as TikTok, Kick, and Instagram.
Much of his content revolves around “looksmaxxing,” a controversial online movement focused on dramatically improving physical appearance.
Clavicular’s Extreme Methods Continue To Raise Concerns
What sets Clavicular apart and draws criticism is how far he claims to go in pursuit of transformation.
He has openly discussed using testosterone, anabolic steroids, and even methamphetamine, which he says helps control his appetite. In one conversation, he also claimed long-term steroid use left him infertile.
Some of his most alarming practices include “bone smashing,” where he reportedly struck his own face with a hammer in an attempt to reshape it.
Medical professionals have repeatedly warned against such methods, stressing that they carry serious health risks and are not reliable ways to change physical features.
Experts also note that even if any results occur, they may not last without repeated and dangerous actions.
Beyond content, Clavicular runs a private online group called “Clavicular’s Clan,” where he offers guides that he claims will “guarantee” physical transformation.
Critics argue that such promises can be misleading, especially when tied to extreme or unsafe techniques.
Clavicular’s Legal Issues And Health Scare Add To Mounting Pressure
The YouTube crackdown is just one part of a series of challenges surrounding the influencer.
Earlier this year, Clavicular was arrested twice, including an incident involving alleged battery after he reportedly provoked and shared a fight online.
In another case tied to alleged possession of a forged instrument and drugs, prosecutors chose not to move forward with charges.
His situation escalated further on April 14, when he was later hospitalized following a suspected overdose.
As The Blast reported, Clavicular abruptly ended his stream after appearing disoriented and slurring his words, with viewers noticing something was seriously wrong before the feed cut off.
According to the report, emergency services were called to the scene, after which he was rushed to the hospital.
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Our list includes both features and documentaries that approach the conflict from a variety of angles.
Matlock‘s Jason Ritter teased how the hit series will change after the season 2 finale ended on a surprising note, which included multiple arrests.
During the Thursday, April 23, episode of the hit CBS series, Matty (Kathy Bates) and Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) briefly thought all hope was lost when it came to their mission to take down Senior (Beau Bridges). The last part of the two-episode special turned things up a notch with Julian (Ritter) finding a way to get his father to admit to his wrongdoing, which led to the DOJ arriving at Jacobson Moore.
The government officials ultimately arrested Senior and the rest of the lawyers who contributed to the WellBrexa document being covered up. Julian ended up a casualty in the takedown and was handcuffed as well, while Matty and Olympia happily walked away from the building and made plans for their future of solving cases together.
“One of the things that has been driving Julian his whole life is this push and pull of wanting his father’s approval and thinking there’s some magic number of money he can have or some mount of power that will make his dad [like him],” Ritter, 46, exclusively told Us Weekly about Julian’s sacrifice. “That’s such a sad thing to be chasing.”
He continued: “On the other hand, he has a real loathing for some of the elements of his dad’s character. And from the beginning, we have known that Julian does not want to be the kind of dad to his kids that Senior was to him. One of the things he can’t stand about his father is that he gets away with everything. So is he just going to let him get away with everything just to avoid his consequences?”
Ritter was thrilled to see how far Julian had come as a person.
“Just the fact that he decides that accepting consequences is the right thing because he wants to teach his children to be able to take accountability and apologize,” he noted. “He makes a decision at the expense of his comfort for the next however long because it’s the right thing — and he wants to pass on those lessons to his kids.”
For the actor, it was exciting to be put “through the wringer” in the finale, adding, “Part 1 of the finale ends on with all being lost, But one of the things in the show that is so exciting to people and inspiring to people is Matty being underestimated but coming out on top and and winning against the big guy. I really was satisfied by the fact that Senior is actually getting arrested — and not only him — but all of the rot from the top is being removed. It’s super satisfying. I wish that would happen more in real life but now at least we can watch it happen on TV and be happy about it.”
The fall 2026 lineup is going to look a little different for CBS after some shows went through surprising changes. CBS announced its schedule on Wednesday, April 15, with viewers noticing some substantial changes. Ghosts, Matlock and NCIS: Sydney received a shakeup by having their premieres moved to 2027 for midseason. They will join the […]
Julian’s fate remained unclear after he was arrested, but the actor pointed out that the possibilities are endless.
“He has access to some wonderful lawyers but maybe some of [season 3] is in the law firm and the other half of the show is Julian and Senior on the prison block,” he quipped. “One of the things that I’ve learned in this period of time is that the writers on this show are so wonderful and will always find an exciting new way forward.”
When asked if Julian could make a pivot from law to being a private investigator, he joked, “I would just have my little office with my venetian blinds and my whiskey. … I don’t know if Julian’s going to be able to work as a lawyer anymore but maybe he can be the guy getting Hunter and Sarah their coffee and the roles have been reversed?”
Regardless, Ritter is on the edge of his seat for what comes next — especially now that the show will return midseason to have more time to introduce a new larger story line outside of the week-to-week cases.
“I know there will be another overarching mystery that they have to solve but [I am not sure] whether it’s tangentially connected,” he told Us. “I know the [WellBrexa] story line is basically complete.”
Matlock has been renewed for season 3 and is streaming on Paramount+.
Jaafar Jackson is hitting pause on his music ambitions, at least for now, as he pivots toward building a full-time acting career.
The rising star, who recently stepped into the role of his uncle Michael Jackson in the recently released biopic “Michael,” revealed he’s stepping away from singing just as fans were expecting a bigger push into music.
The decision has disappointed many supporters, who viewed him as the natural heir to the Jackson family’s pop legacy. In the meantime, his first-ever film continues to draw backlash from critics, with some describing the film’s portrayal as overly sanitized.
Following the release of “Michael,” Jaafar has been getting candid about his future, and it may not include music at all.
The nephew of Michael Jackson admitted he’s ready to wind down his singing career, despite fans eagerly awaiting a full debut project following his early singles “Got Me Singing” and “Confused.”
During a recent appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” he was pressed on whether more music was on the way after his breakout role in “Michael.”
Jaafar didn’t exactly leave room for hope. While he spoke warmly about his love for music, he admitted that portraying his legendary uncle on stage made him feel like he had already reached the highest level of artistic expression, and anything that followed might not measure up.
Fans Split Over Jaafar Jackson’s Career Pivot
The internet didn’t land on one side. Some fans saw the move as a smart pivot, while others couldn’t hide their disappointment at the idea of losing him as a performer.
One X user admitted the decision caught them off guard, suggesting Jaafar may be trying to avoid inevitable comparisons to Michael. “Maybe he thinks people will say he isn’t good enough and will always be compared to MJ instead of continuing the Jackson legacy,” they wrote, before adding that acting could still work out in his favor.
Others were more sentimental, pointing to his vocal ability and the untapped potential. “He has such a gorgeous voice, it would be great to hear him sing again, maybe even collab with artists like Tyla,” another fan shared.
Inside Jaafar Jackson’s Transformation Into Michael
Jaafar is also shedding light on what it really took to step into the shoes of one of music’s most iconic figures. During his appearance on “Jennifer Hudson,” the actor revealed that preparing to portray Michael went far beyond rehearsals and choreography.
The 29-year-old revealed that he was given access to some of the King of Pop’s personal diaries and journals, material that helped him understand a side of the global superstar many never saw. According to him, the writings revealed just how “deeply sensitive” Michael was, particularly when it came to world events, and how intentionally he used his music to unite people.
The role also became a family effort. Jaafar explained that stories from relatives, including his father, grandmother, and extended family, played a key part in shaping his performance.
‘Michael’ Biopic Hit With ‘Sanitized’ Claims
The conversation around “Michael” hasn’t been entirely positive, with critics questioning how the film handles the late pop icon’s most controversial chapters.
Some reviewers argue the project leans too heavily into celebration, stopping short of fully grappling with the allegations that shadowed Michael’s life and legacy. Legal constraints reportedly shaped that approach after production uncovered a non-disclosure agreement tied to past accusations, which limited how certain figures and events could be portrayed on screen.
A review of the film on The Guardian described it as “rammed with every music-movie cliché” and more like a drawn-out montage than a fully realized story.
Another Critic Slams ‘Michael’ As ‘Soulless’
The criticism didn’t stop there, with another reviewer taking an even harsher stance on “Michael.”
Writing for The Independent, critic Clarisse Loughrey labeled the film a “ghoulish, soulless cash grab,” arguing it blurs the line between storytelling and commercial product. She pointed to a broader wave of music biopics in recent years, suggesting “Michael” leans too heavily on replication rather than depth.
According to Loughrey, the film largely recreates the most recognizable moments from Michael Jackson’s career without digging into the person behind them.
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“Let me live,” the reality star said, expressing frustration that she had gained weight from the steroids she takes as part of her treatment.
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