Mocking mortality itself, Clint Eastwood worked prolifically for more than three decades after directing what many thought would be a swan song. It was back in 1991 that Eastwood made Unforgiven, the Oscar-winning Western that Hollywood honored left, right, and center because it assumed that he was hanging up his boots. Little did the industry know that he would make roughly one new movie a year for the next 30 years. Tragically, Eastwood has now retired for good, having directed his last movie at the ripe age of 93. The movie in question, Juror #2, was released directly on HBO Max in 2023, and is sitting at a terrific 93% score on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s a sharp rebuke toQuentin Tarantino‘s theory about filmmakers losing their touch as they get older. Eastwood was arguably operating at the peak of his powers in the 2000s, when he made hits such as Million Dollar Baby, Mystic River, and Gran Torino.
It was during this same run that Eastwood put together perhaps his most ambitious project of the 2000s — the World War II epics Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima. Both movies presented the same chapter of history from contrasting perspectives. Surprisingly, Letters from Iwo Jima, which featured a predominantly Japanese cast and offered the so-called enemy’s point-of-view, ended up receiving better reviews and delivering better box-office results. While Flags of Our Fathers grossed $65 million worldwide against a reported budget of $90 million, Letters from Iwo Jima earned nearly $70 million worldwide against a reported budget of under $20 million. The Japanese-language epic received four Oscar nominations, including in the Best Picture category.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Collider Exclusive · Oscar Best Picture Quiz Which Oscar Best Picture Is Your Perfect Movie? Parasite · Everything Everywhere · Oppenheimer · Birdman · No Country
Five Oscar Best Picture winners. Five completely different visions of what cinema can be — and what it can do to you. One of them is the film that was made for the way your mind works. Ten questions will figure out which one.
🪜Parasite
🌀Everything Everywhere
☢️Oppenheimer
Advertisement
🐦Birdman
🪙No Country for Old Men
Advertisement
01
What kind of film experience do you actually want? The best movies don’t just entertain — they leave something behind.
Advertisement
02
Which idea grabs you most in a film? Great films are driven by a central obsession. What’s yours?
Advertisement
03
How do you like your story told? Form is content. The way a story is shaped changes what it means.
Advertisement
04
What makes a truly great antagonist? The opposition defines the protagonist. What kind of opposition fascinates you?
Advertisement
05
What do you want from a film’s ending? The final note is the one that lingers. What do you want it to sound like?
Advertisement
06
Which setting pulls you in most? Where a film takes place shapes everything — mood, stakes, what’s even possible.
Advertisement
07
What cinematic craft impresses you most? Every great film has a signature — a technical or artistic element that makes it unmistakable.
Advertisement
08
What kind of main character do you root for? The protagonist is the lens. Who you choose to follow says something about you.
Advertisement
09
How do you feel about a film that takes its time? Pace is a choice. Some films sprint; others let tension accumulate slowly, deliberately.
Advertisement
10
What do you want to feel walking out of the cinema? The best films leave a mark. What kind of mark do you want?
Advertisement
The Academy Has Decided Your Perfect Film Is…
Your answers have pointed to one Oscar Best Picture winner above all others. This is the film that was made for the way your mind works.
Advertisement
Parasite
You are drawn to films that operate on multiple levels simultaneously — that begin in one genre and quietly, brilliantly migrate into another. Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a film about class, desire, and the architecture of inequality that manages to be darkly funny, deeply suspenseful, and genuinely shocking across a single extraordinary running time. Your instinct is for cinema that hides its true intentions until the moment it’s ready to reveal them. Parasite is exactly that — a film that rewards close attention and punishes assumptions, right up to its devastating final image.
Advertisement
Everything Everywhere All at Once
You want it all — and this film gives you all of it. The Daniels’ Everything Everywhere All at Once is one of the most maximalist films ever made: action comedy, multiverse sci-fi, family drama, existential crisis, and a genuinely earned emotional core that sneaks up on you amid the chaos. You are someone who responds to ambition, who doesn’t want cinema to choose between being entertaining and being meaningful. This film refuses that choice entirely. It is overwhelming by design, and its overwhelming nature is precisely the point — because the feeling of being crushed by infinite possibility is exactly what it’s about.
Advertisement
Oppenheimer
You are drawn to cinema on a grand scale — films that understand history not as a backdrop but as a force, and that place their characters inside that force and watch what happens. Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is a film about the terrifying gap between what we can do and what we should do, told with the full weight of one of the most consequential moments in human history behind it. You want your films to feel important without feeling self-important — to earn their ambition through sheer craft and the gravity of their subject. Oppenheimer does exactly that. It is enormous, complicated, and refuses easy comfort.
Advertisement
Birdman
You are drawn to films that foreground their own construction — that make the how of the filmmaking part of the what it’s about. Alejandro González Iñárritu’s Birdman, shot to appear as a single continuous take, is cinema examining itself through the cracked mirror of a fading actor’s ego. You respond to formal daring, to the feeling that a film is doing something that probably shouldn’t be possible. Michael Keaton’s performance and Emmanuel Lubezki’s restless camera create something genuinely unlike anything else — a film that is simultaneously about creativity, relevance, self-destruction, and the impossibility of ever truly knowing if your work means anything at all.
Advertisement
No Country for Old Men
You are drawn to cinema that trusts silence, that refuses to explain itself, and that treats dread as a form of meaning. The Coen Brothers’ No Country for Old Men is a film about the arrival of a new kind of evil — implacable, arbitrary, and utterly indifferent to the moral frameworks we use to make sense of the world. It is one of the most formally controlled films ever made, and its controlled restraint is what makes it so terrifying. You want your films to haunt you, not comfort you. You are not interested in resolution if resolution would be dishonest. No Country for Old Men is honest in a way that most cinema never dares to be.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Clint Eastwood Revolutionary WWII Movie Has Been Overtaken at the Box Office
Two decades later, the movie’s $13.7 million domestic haul has been overtaken by a new WWII hit — Pressure, starring Brendan Fraser and Andrew Scott. Directed by Anthony Maras, Pressure has proven to be quietly successful at the box office on the strength of excellent reviews and audience reception. It holds a “Certified Fresh” 86% critics’ score and a “Verified Hot” 95% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. The aggregator website’s consensus reads, “Finding a fresh angle on one of the most dramatized days in military history, Pressure is a brainy war film that derives most of its thrills from Andrew Scott’s simmering performance.” Pressure will no doubt do extremely well on the PVOD market, as movies with high audience scores tend to. But first, it remains to be seen if it has the juice to overtake the $14.5 million haul of Russell Crowe‘s Nuremberg. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
Shania Twain is refusing to let critics dictate how she feels about growing older.
After years of battling insecurities over her changing appearance, the country music icon says she has finally reached a place of acceptance, embracing menopause, rejecting unrealistic beauty standards, and refusing to let body shamers steal her confidence.
The 60-year-old singer’s latest comments also shed new light on a painful health setback that forced her offstage during her Las Vegas residency, revealing how menopause played a bigger role than fans ever realized.
4ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA
Speaking candidly to PEOPLE, Twain reflected on the difficult transition into menopause and how it contributed to a frightening injury she suffered while performing in Las Vegas in 2019.
The singer explained that dehydration, poor nutrition, and hormonal changes combined to create what she described as the “perfect storm.”
Advertisement
“I ripped two muscles in my thigh,” Twain recalled, explaining that she had not yet adjusted to the Nevada climate and wasn’t consuming enough water, salt, or protein while experiencing severe menopausal symptoms.
The injury forced her to reevaluate how she cared for herself, especially as she struggled with physical changes she didn’t fully understand at the time.
Shania Twain admitted that seeing her body change was emotionally difficult.
“I go from being this young, stunning figure, beautiful skin, everything’s in the right place,” she said, admitting she eventually reached a point where she “couldn’t look in the mirror” because all she noticed were what she considered imperfections.
Instead of continuing to fight the natural aging process, however, the Grammy winner said she gradually realized that prioritizing her well-being mattered far more than chasing youth.
Advertisement
Shania Twain Reveals Why She Stopped Looking In The Mirror
Twain’s latest remarks build on admissions she has made over the past year about her complicated relationship with body image.
Earlier this year, she revealed that there was a period during her Las Vegas residency when she “hated” her body and became consumed by every perceived flaw she saw in the mirror. Rather than feeling empowered by her appearance, she admitted she often focused on what had changed instead of appreciating where she was in life.
Those feelings eventually gave way to a healthier outlook. Today, Twain says she no longer feels pressure to recreate the body she had decades ago.
“I’m not trying to be 30. I’m not trying to be 25, and I won’t be ever again,” she told PEOPLE, encouraging others to enjoy themselves in the present instead of constantly wishing they looked younger.
She added another message that has become central to her outlook on aging, noting, “Vanity is not worth torture.”
Advertisement
The singer also acknowledged that aging has required adjustments in other parts of her life, joking that she can no longer play tennis the way she did in her 30s and has instead adapted her game rather than trying to push her body beyond its limits.
While Twain has faced criticism about her appearance throughout her career, especially as she continues wearing bold stage outfits in her late 50s and early 60s, she says she has reached a point where outside opinions simply don’t carry the same weight.
Instead of allowing online criticism to influence how she dresses or performs, the singer has embraced a philosophy centered on confidence rather than perfection.
She declared that her body “is not shameable,” making it clear that she refuses to let strangers determine how she should feel about herself.
That mindset remains unchanged. Rather than trying to erase every sign of aging, Twain said she’s learning to embrace each stage of life as it comes.
Advertisement
“I just have to get over this because every day that goes by, I’m getting older,” she explained, adding that the physical changes that once bothered her no longer define how she sees herself.
For Twain, accepting those changes has become liberating instead of discouraging.
Twain Has Spoken Honestly About Her Body Before
Shania Twain performs “You’re Still the One” at her ‘Little Miss Twain’ SiriusXM launch and album release party in NYC. pic.twitter.com/srjt3D8Z25
This isn’t the first time Shania Twain has spoken openly about her relationship with her appearance.
Advertisement
The country superstar has repeatedly explained that confidence didn’t always come naturally, despite being widely regarded as one of music’s biggest sex symbols during the 1990s and early 2000s.
As previously reported by The Blast, Twain recently admitted she spent years criticizing her body behind the scenes, even while fans viewed her as one of the entertainment industry’s most glamorous performers.
She acknowledged that she often overlooked the confidence she possessed when she was younger because she was too busy searching for flaws.
Looking back now, Twain says she wishes she had appreciated herself more during those years instead of allowing insecurities to overshadow them.
Advertisement
That realization has become one of the biggest lessons she hopes others can learn from her own experience.
In the world of television, very few shows get the chance to continue past their first or second season. This is especially true in the modern era, where streaming platforms and on-demand viewing dominate over cable or network television. As a result, many platforms produce several of their own original series of many genres, in an effort to get people to buy a subscription.
This is getting more and more common in the fantasy genre since it’s experiencing a massive surge right now. A lot of good, enjoyable series are being made, but many aren’t getting the opportunity to make it past their second season. However, there are also some that are brand new, so they only have a few seasons in the first place. In any event, these are the most perfect fantasy shows that have fewer than 20 episodes.
Advertisement
10
‘Over the Garden Wall’ (2014)
Wirt and Beatrice standing on the edge of the frog boat in Over the Garden WallImage via Cartoon Network
Over the Garden Wall is a Cartoon Network animated miniseries that was something of a passion project for its creator; one with a lot of star power to back it up. The premise follows two half-brothers living in a fairy tale world, who become hopelessly lost in a dark, gloomy forest called “The Unknown.” Desperate to find their way home, they encounter many strange and wondrous things.
Even though it’s only a miniseries with a handful of episodes, it gets way deeper than anyone ever expected it to, especially for a kids’ show. For that reason, it’s become a bit of a cult classic, popular among both kids and adults. Things get much darker than its whimsical introduction, exhibiting how even TV shows and cartoons can be a form of art. Over the Garden Wall might be short, but it’s exactly the length it needs to be to make its point.
Advertisement
9
‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ (2026–Present)
Aerion Targaryen in armor in A Knight of the Seven KingdomsImage via Steffan Hill/HBO
A Knight of the Seven Kingdomsis the second prequel series to the earth-shattering HBO original, Game of Thrones, which was originally based on the unfinished novel series by George R. R. Martin. This show is set roughly 100 years prior to the events of the main show, and is much smaller but more intimate in scale. The premise follows a traveling knight and his misfit squire as they make their way around Westeros accepting local contracts.
While it lacks the epic scale of Game of Thrones, this show has much more adventure in it, as well as a lot more comedy. Since the cast is substantially smaller, there is also a better level of character development and chemistry between the principal actors, so it’s a decent departure from the formula fans of the original are used to. As of right now, there’s only one season, which makes it a short but sweet binge.
Advertisement
8
‘Arcane’ (2021–2024)
Jinx’s sacrifice in ‘Arcane.’Image via Netflix
Arcaneis based on the immensely popular MOBA video game, League of Legends. The 3D animated series follows two of the game’s playable champions in a tale of love, sacrifice, friendship, and individuality. The world of League of Legends is quite an interesting place, featuring elements of sci-fi, fantasy, and even steampunk. Normally, video game adaptations are terrible, but Arcane successfully breaks the mold here, thanks to direct intervention from the game developers.
This animated series bears a really unique art style that isn’t seen anywhere else. It actually resembles the game graphics, which is a nice touch. Even though the show only lasted two seasons before ending its story, it was critically acclaimed, earning high review scores and even an Emmy or two. Very rarely, if ever, is an Emmy given to a video game adaptation, much less an animated video game adaptation. The short length of this show means it doesn’t take long to watch, but it makes for an unforgettable experience.
Advertisement
7
‘Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities’ (2022)
Guillermo del Toro sits at a desk filled with books and papers, talking to the camera in Cabinet of Curiosities.Image via Netflix
Film director Guillermo del Toro is known for his dark fantasy and horror films, and has received a lot of critical praise for the way he builds tension and atmosphere. Almost every one of his films is eerie, but fun to rewatch multiple times. Being a modern master of the fantasy genre, Netflix offered him a deal for an anthology miniseries, which he took. The result is Cabinet of Curiosities, which is underrated, but truly special.
Since it’s an anthology series, all the episodes are independent of each other and function as mini-movies ranging from 40 to 60 minutes long. Part fantasy and part horror, each episode is loaded with del Toro’s signature style, to the point that the show feels like a playground for his imagination. It’s a passionate love letter to filmmaking and a dark fantasy experience that will make you really think. There are actually fewer than 10 episodes, never mind 20, so it’s another one of those shows that you could easily finish in a day if you really wanted to.
One Pieceis a live-action remake of the 1999 anime series of the same name, which is actually still ongoing. The main character is Monkey D. Luffy (Iñaki Godoy), an aspiring young pirate who has swallowed a Devil Fruit, granting him the ability to stretch himself like rubber at will. The series is set on a vast ocean world where pirates rule the waves and treasure lies hidden beneath the sand.
One treasure in particular is said to contain more wealth than any other, which causes most pirates to vigorously search for the final piece of the broken map that can lead to the treasure’s whereabouts. Filled with comedy, ridiculousness, but also high seas adventure, the live-action version of One Piece is much more palatable to non-anime fans and does a fantastic job of bringing a beloved series to life in a new way. There are only 16 episodes so far, so it’s easy to binge, too.
Advertisement
Collider Exclusive · Middle-earth Quiz Which Lord of the Rings Character Are You? One Quiz · Ten Questions · Your Fate Revealed
Advertisement
The road goes ever on. From the green hills of the Shire to the fires of Mount Doom, every soul in Middle-earth carries a destiny. Ten questions stand between you and the truth of who you are. Answer honestly — the One Ring has a way of revealing what we most want to hide.
💍Frodo
🌿Samwise
👑Aragorn
🔥Gandalf
Advertisement
🏹Legolas
⚒️Gimli
👁️Sauron
🪨Gollum
Advertisement
01
Advertisement
You are handed a responsibility that could destroy you. What do you do? The weight of the world falls on unlikely shoulders.
02
Advertisement
Your closest companion is heading into terrible danger. You: True loyalty is revealed not in comfort, but in crisis.
03
Advertisement
Enormous power is within your reach. Your instinct is: Power corrupts — but only those who reach for it.
04
Advertisement
What does “home” mean to you? Where we long to return reveals who we truly are.
05
Advertisement
When a battle is upon you, your approach is: War reveals what we are made of — whether we like it or not.
06
Advertisement
Someone comes to you for advice in their darkest hour. You: Wisdom is not knowing all the answers — it’s knowing which questions to ask.
07
Advertisement
How do you see yourself, honestly? Self-knowledge is the most dangerous kind.
08
Advertisement
Which of these best describes your relationship with the natural world? Middle-earth speaks to those who know how to listen.
09
Advertisement
You encounter a wretched, pitiable creature who has done terrible things. You: How we treat the fallen reveals the height of our character.
10
Advertisement
When the quest is over and the songs are sung, what do you hope they say about you? In the end, we are all just stories.
The Fellowship Has Spoken Your Place in Middle-earth
Advertisement
The scores below reveal your true character. Your highest number is your match. Even a tie tells a story — the Fellowship was never made of simple people.
💍 Frodo
🌿 Samwise
Advertisement
👑 Aragorn
🔥 Gandalf
🏹 Legolas
⚒️ Gimli
Advertisement
👁️ Sauron
🪨 Gollum
You carry something heavy — and you carry it alone, even when you don’t have to. You were not born for greatness, and that is precisely why greatness chose you. Your courage is not the roaring, sword-swinging kind; it is quiet, stubborn, and terrifying in its refusal to quit. The Ring weighs on you more than anyone can see, and still you walk toward the fire. That is not weakness. That is the rarest kind of strength there is.
Advertisement
You are, without question, the best of them. Not the most powerful, not the most celebrated — but the most essential. Your loyalty is not a trait; it is a force of nature. You would carry the person you love up the slopes of Mount Doom if it came to that, and we both know you’d do it without being asked. The world needs more people like you, and the world is lucky it has even one.
You were born to lead, and you have spent years running from it. The crown is yours by right, but you know better than anyone that right means nothing without the will and the worthiness to back it up. You are tempered by loss, shaped by long roads, and defined by a code of honour you hold to even when no one is watching. When you finally step forward, the world shifts. Because it was always waiting for you.
Advertisement
You have seen more than you let on, and you say less than you know — which is exactly as it should be. You are a catalyst: you do not fight the battles yourself, you ignite the people who can. Your wisdom comes not from books but from an age of watching what happens when it is ignored. You arrive precisely when you mean to, and your presence alone changes what is possible. A wizard is never late.
Graceful, perceptive, and almost preternaturally calm under pressure — you see things others miss and act before others react. You do not need to make a scene to be remarkable; your presence speaks for itself. You are loyal to those you choose to stand beside, and that choice is not made lightly. You have lived long enough to know that the most beautiful things in this world are also the most fragile, and that is why you fight to protect them.
Advertisement
You are loud, proud, and absolutely formidable — and beneath all of that is one of the most fiercely loyal hearts in Middle-earth. You don’t do anything by half measures. Your friendships are forged like iron, your grudges run as deep as mines, and your courage in battle is the kind that makes legends. You came into this fellowship suspicious of everyone and ended it willing to die for an elf. That is not a small thing. That is everything.
You think in centuries and act in absolutes. Order, dominion, control — not because you are cruel by nature, but because you have decided that the world left to itself always falls apart, and you are the only one with the vision and the will to hold it together. You were not always this. Something was lost, or taken, or betrayed, and the version of you that stands now is the answer to that wound. The tragedy is that you’re not entirely wrong — just entirely too far gone to course-correct.
Advertisement
You are a study in contradiction — pitiable and dangerous, cunning and broken, capable of both cruelty and something that once resembled love. You are defined by loss: of innocence, of self, of the one thing that gave your existence meaning. Two voices war inside you constantly, and the tragedy is that the better one sometimes wins, just not often enough, and never at the right moment. You are a warning, yes — but also a mirror. We are all a little Gollum, given the right ring and enough time.
Advertisement
5
‘Shadow and Bone’ (2021–2023)
A young man has his arm around a young woman and she smiles at him as they both walk together in Shadow and Bone. Image via Netflix
Advertisement
Shadow and Boneis a high fantasy series based on the novels of the same name by Leigh Bardugo. The series is set in Bardugo’s Grishaverse, which is a setting vastly different from any other fantasy world. A lot of fantasy stories tend to favour settings akin to Medieval Europe, which makes the Victorian London-esque world of Shadow and Bone a breath of fresh air.
This show has a really intricate magic system, hilarious punchlines, and some highly memorable characters, none of which got nearly the amount of attention they so desperately deserved. The show was unfortunately axed after just two seasons due to low viewership, in spite of audiences loving it. The experience of Shadow and Bone might be short, but it’s one heck of a ride.
4
‘The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance’ (2019)
The Dark Crystal Age of Resistance poster featuring the characters walking toward a purple landscape.Image via Netflix
Advertisement
The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistanceis the prequel series to the 1982 Jim Henson film. This means it’s created with puppets, all meticulously detailed and fascinating to watch. All sets are, for the most part, hand-crafted as well, meaning a tremendous artistic effort went into this show. It’s honestly despicable that Netflix gave it the axe after only one season, despite critical acclaim.
The Dark Crystal‘s story takes audiences back to the world of Thra, where no humans exist, only strange and mysterious creatures. The show is set just after the Dark Crystal splinters, releasing the vulture-like Skeksis into the world, who intend to enslave the native life forms of Thra and forge an immortal empire. It’s a beautiful and family-friendly show that you could realistically knock back in a day if you really wanted to since it was only given a handful of episodes.
3
‘The Mighty Nein’ (2025–Present)
The main characters of Prime Video series The Mighty Nein.Image via Prime Video
Advertisement
The Mighty Neinbegan as a custom campaign from a tabletop role-playing game that was recorded and uploaded as a podcast. This is actually the second series from this background, the first being The Legend of Vox Machina. Set in the same universe, The Mighty Nein is an animated series about a group of misfit thieves, low-lives, and ne’er-do-wells who unexpectedly come into the possession of a magical artifact that could determine the fate of the world.
Like Vox Machina, the show is voiced by the original podcast members, so it feels nice and familiar to returning fans. For non-fans, it adds an extra layer of authenticity and rawness to their performance. While slightly more underrated than its predecessor,The Mighty Nein has done well for itself so far, and is a great introduction into the vast world created by the podcast.
2
‘Kingdom’ (2019–2021)
A man flees zombies in Netflix’s epic series, Kingdom.Credit: Netflix
Advertisement
Kingdomis a South Korean fantasy horror set in the historical kingdom of Joseon at the turn of the 17th century. Amidst royal feuds, the scheming Haewon Cho clan makes a dangerous attempt at seizing the throne, using a mythical resurrection plant. This accidentally unleashes a zombie horde, although these undead don’t behave anything like the typical zombies you’ve seen in fiction.
Unfortunately, this show got soft-cancelled by Netflix after two seasons and one special feature-length episode. Based on a web comic turned graphic novel, Kingdom has political intrigue, family drama, feuding nobles, gruesome violence, and strong elements of horror, all of which were received very well by critics and fans alike. There’s no indication that it will ever come back (which is infuriating, considering it ended on a cliffhanger), but the 13 episodes that do exist are phenomenal all around.
1
‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ (2023–Present)
Walker Scobell as Percy with a helmet on in ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ Season 2.Image via Disney+
Advertisement
Based on the beloved YA novels of the same name by Rick Riordan,Percy Jackson and the Olympiansis about the titular Percy (Walker Scobell), a troubled boy who discovers he is the son of the Greek god Poseidon. To learn how to hone his powers, he is sent to Camp Half-blood, along with other demigods. Here, he is exposed to a hidden world where Greek mythology comes to life.
This series of books saw a disastrous attempt at movie adaptations in the 2010s, but the show is, thus far, much more faithful and miles more entertaining. This is largely because Riordan himself has a much heavier hand in the show’s production than he did for the movies. In any event, the show is great for teens, tweens. and adults, is filled with wonder, and is just plain fun. So far, there are only 16 episodes, most of which are only 30-40 minutes long, so it’s easy to binge in one short weekend.
Netflix is facing a $105 million lawsuit after a master copy of an unreleased Nicolas Cage thriller was allegedly stolen from the streaming company’s Hollywood offices. Swiss billionaire Simon Afram, who personally financed and produced the $45 million film “Fortitude,” is accusing Netflix of breach of contract after its digital cinema package disappeared nine days after being delivered. Netflix disputes that it is financially responsible for the loss and has accused Afram’s attorneys of engaging in “hostile attempts to extort money” from the company.
5Starbuck / AFF-USA.com / MEGA
An unencrypted master copy of “Fortitude” was hand-delivered to Netflix’s Hollywood headquarters on June 15 at the streamer’s request. The transfer was reportedly part of the movie’s ongoing sales process. Studios reviewing potential acquisitions commonly request a digital cinema package, or DCP, that can be projected inside a commercial theater.
Netflix executives screened “Fortitude” the following day. However, Netflix Original Film director Sean Berney informed parties connected to the production on June 25 that the drive containing the film had been stolen, according to an email included as an exhibit in the lawsuit.
“This is a first for us. Unfortunately, someone stole a good amount of drives from our office desks this past week. We’ve been working through this with our security teams to no luck,” Berney wrote, per Page Six. “Our piracy teams are on high alert with the breach and will monitor, but they are likely just selling the drives for scrap given they would require a [key delivery message].”
Berney continued, “We will of course create a new DCP or reimburse you for this missing drive. Apologies again and here to answer anything further and/or connect you with our security teams.”
Advertisement
A source at Netflix claimed the other missing drives were empty and did not contain additional projects. The complaint does not clarify whether the stolen DCP was the only existing master copy of “Fortitude.”
Lawsuit Claims Netflix Waited To Disclose The Theft
Afram’s lawsuit alleges Netflix may have known about the missing drive for as long as one week before informing the filmmakers.
“Netflix’s email indicated that Netflix had known about the theft of the DCP for potentially a full week without ever advising plaintiffs that Netflix had allowed” Fortitude’s DCP “to be stolen right off a Netflix desk,” the complaint states.
The producer’s attorneys argue that Netflix’s proposed response failed to account for the film’s production cost and potential market value. Creating a replacement DCP would reportedly cost approximately $800, while Afram invested more than $45 million into developing and producing the project over seven years.
The case was filed in federal court in California’s Central District. Afram is represented by Caroline Mankey and Christopher McAndrew of Akerman, along with Neville Johnson and Hyura Choi of Johnson and Johnson.
Advertisement
‘Fortitude’ Was Inspired By A Real-Life World War II Spy
“Fortitude” centers on Dusko Popov, a real-life World War II double agent and playboy who reportedly helped inspire Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels. At an earlier stage in the project’s development, Martin Scorsese was considering directing Simon Afram’s screenplay as a potential Leonardo DiCaprio vehicle. The final version instead reunited Cage with filmmaker Simon West, who previously directed him in the 1997 action movie “Con Air.”
The movie also stars Ben Kingsley and Ron Perlman, with a supporting ensemble that includes Matthew Goode, Michael Sheen, Art Malik, Jordi Mollà, Lukas Haas, Ed Skrein, Alice Eve, Paul Anderson and Emilio Sakraya. Court documents describe the film as “tonally in the vein of ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ meets ‘Inglorious Basterds.’”
“The resulting damage to Plaintiffs is profound,” the lawsuit states. “Through its mishandling of the Film and subsequent dismissiveness, Netflix has jeopardized Plaintiffs’ investment of over $45 million and the significant value of the Film itself. Netflix has also deprived the Film, its cast, and its creators of the opportunity to bring their work to market and receive recognition that a properly marketed worldwide release likely would have generated.”
Netflix pushed back against Afram’s allegations in a statement, arguing that the film was delivered without sufficient industry safeguards.
“Netflix disputes any claim that it bears the risk of loss for a film delivered without the proper industry-standard safeguards. While we do not own the rights to ‘Fortitude,’ we take content security seriously and have taken extra measures to support the filmmaker and his team. This includes conducting a thorough investigation and offering to monitor known piracy sites for any unauthorized distribution or sale,” the streamer stated.
Netflix also addressed why it has not provided Afram’s legal team with details about its investigation. “We have declined to share anything about our ongoing investigation with the law firm representing Simon Afram, given their hostile attempts to extort money from Netflix over this situation, including immediately demanding $165 million for the film rather than work with us in good faith,” the company added.
Advertisement
Although Afram is now seeking $105 million, Netflix claimed his attorneys initially demanded $165 million.
Afram’s attorneys based their damages calculation partly on what they believe the film could have earned through a properly handled worldwide release. According to the complaint, the estimate considers early interest from studios and distributors, audience test scores, feedback from sales agents and the commercial potential of the genre.
The lawsuit claims “the film can be conservatively estimated to at least break even, which in the motion picture industry translates to revenues of at least 2.5 times the production budget, or $112,500,000.”
Afram also emphasized that his concern extends beyond recovering his personal investment. “I spent seven years of my life bringing this incredible true story to the screen. But this film was never mine alone. It belongs to the extraordinary cast and their performances of a lifetime that deserve to be seen and recognized. It represents the moment these artists have earned,” he said.
The lawsuit now leaves a federal court to determine whether Netflix can be held responsible for the missing DCP and whether its disappearance caused the nine-figure damages Afram claims.
“Spider-Man” star Andrew Garfield will not forget this milestone collaboration in a hurry!
The filmmaker has made ground-breaking movies and won millions of hearts on his acting journey, but only a few records can break the one he holds for appearing alongside Claire Foy twice.
Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy first appeared in the 2017 flick “Breathe” and have linked up a second time for this soon-to-be-released project, “The Magic Faraway Tree.”
5Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA
The actor caught up with US Weekly at the screening of the upcoming movie at the New York City Regal Union Square to express how he feels about appearing with Foy.
Declaring her admiration for the filmmaker as an actress, a person, and a brand, Garfield expressed, “I love being her friend, and collaborating with her is a highlight of my career — both times.”
Advertisement
He described her as a rare actor and an even rarer human being who makes everything around her fun and everyone around her happy. He added that acting alongside the legend has somewhat made his craft better.
The British actor gushed about Foy being so full of grace for people, for an experience, and how she never holds on to anything tightly, also teaching her how to do the same.
“She teaches me a lot about letting go of control and letting go of having to micromanage everything. She’s someone who’s very, very happy to go with the flow with things, and I find that quite inspiring,” Garfield concluded.
The Actor’s Co-Star Can’t Keep Calm About His Brilliance
Foy returned the favor about Garfield’s person in a separate interview, praising his talent and brilliance in front of the camera lens. The actress recalled Garfield on set as a warm, silly personality who was fun to be around.
She added that it was very relieving to see the actor in a different dynamic with the kids, and to see him play the character. Garfield himself described working with the kids as very joyful, adding that existing in the countryside during shooting, feeling the air was amazing.
Advertisement
The upcoming movie also reminded the movie star of his childhood, remembering what it is to be connected to the inner child part everyone carries that never goes away. He stated that he feels very lucky to be able to spend a couple of months in the summer with the cast, Foy and the kids, thanks to Simon Farnaby’s incredible script.
Garfield will appear alongside Phoenix Laroche, Billie Gadson, Delilah Bennett-Cardy, Nicola Coughlan, Rebecca Ferguson and Nonso Anozie in the upcoming movie.
Andrew Garfield Previously Took A Break From Acting To Recalibrate
In 2022, the British actor got candid with Variety about taking a much-deserved break from acting to rest and figure out what to do next with his career. This confession came shortly after he scored his second Oscar nomination for his performance in “Tick, Tick … Boom!.”
While he is not displeased about the upward trajectory in his career, he admits that his thirst to be ordinary has remained unquenched for a while. As shared by The Blast, the actor also lost his mother to pancreatic cancer in 2019, which left him in precise agony, making it very difficult to move on.
Garfield, who featured in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” alongside Tobey Maguire to become one of his most successful projects ever, also spoke on his future playing the friendly neighborhood superhero character.
Advertisement
As far as he was concerned back then, Garfield affirmed that he was done embodying that character, despite the fact that he earlier pranked his fans about making an appearance in “No Way Home.”
The 42-Year-Old Attached Some Strong Conditions To His Future As ‘Spider-Man’
In his interview with GQ in 2025, as shared by PEOPLE, he affirmed that he would not be appearing in the fourth installment of the “Spider-Man” franchise, “Brand New Day.” In the same publication, he added that he might consider returning as Spider-Man if it felt in line with his soul and promised to be fun.
He made the atmosphere lighter, noting that if the paycheck got a bit bigger, it may hasten his consideration process. Garfield joked that he might end up having five kids at some point, and he may need to start saving up for school tuition, and the money from such a sweet deal may just come in handy.
He admitted the same truth in a 2024 interview where he stated that it would take a great concept for him to accept the Peter Parker role again. Nevertheless, he was happy to have been a part of the entire journey, and he would have never had the foresight to do that on his own.
‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ Still Holds The Franchise’s Record
Garfield’s was part of the movie, which broke the record as the biggest opening post-COVID and the third-biggest opening ever at the worldwide box office, according to Deadline. It trailed right behind 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame,” which earned $1.22B, and 2018’s “Avengers: Infinity War,” which raked in $640.5M at the box office.
For the latest installment of the franchise, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” it is projected to get a $450M debut at the worldwide box office, which would be Sony’s biggest global opening ever. It comes after 2021’s Spider-Man: No Way Home, which began with a $600.5M worldwide start, and ahead of 2003’s Spider-Man 3’s $381.6M.
Advertisement
“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” has a Rotten Tomatoes critics score of 89%, right behind the last installment, which grabbed a 93%. The latest installment is also predicted to break several records across Europe and Latin America.
Andrew Garfield will surely give everyone a show when that movie drops!
North West has finally addressed the sudden collapse of what would have been her first headlining tour, leaving fans with a promise after multiple scheduled dates quietly disappeared.
The 13-year-old daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West was set to hit the road alongside rapper Molly Santana for the Kimokawaii Tour, but after several shows were canceled, North broke her silence to reassure supporters that although the tour is over, something new is already on the horizon.
RESMİ: North West, Molly Santana ile planlanan turnenin iptal edildiğini IG’de kesin olarak duyurdu 🎫 🥀
“Gerçekten Molly ile yapacağımız turne için çok heyecanlıydım ama artık gerçekleşmeyecek. Yine de sizin için özel bir şey hazırlıyorum. Yakında görüşürüz.” sözleriyle… https://t.co/4QRHUVKElypic.twitter.com/CxGUJW7Rgi
Rather than leaving fans guessing, North West took to her Instagram Stories to personally confirm that the Kimokawaii Tour would not be moving forward.
“I was really excited to go on tour w molly santana sadly it isn’t happening anymore but i have something special for u guys see ya soon,” she wrote per the Daily Mail.
The brief message marked the first time the teenager publicly addressed the situation after online speculation intensified over disappearing tour dates.
While she acknowledged her disappointment, she stopped short of explaining why the tour had been scrapped, instead choosing to leave fans with a hopeful promise about what’s still to come.
Advertisement
The canceled run would have been a milestone for the aspiring performer, marking her first headlining tour alongside rapper Santana with 14 scheduled stops across North America beginning August 5 in Dallas.
Santana Apologized Directly To Ticket Holders
Shortly after North West’s statement, Santana shared a longer message expressing regret to fans who had already purchased tickets and made travel plans.
“To everyone who bought tickets to the tour i sincerely apologize i know a lot of you have taken time out of your busy schedules and spent your hard earned money planning to be there,” she wrote on Instagram Stories.
Santana said connecting with her audience remained one of the most rewarding parts of being an artist. “Nothing makes me more happy than the opportunity to share more amazing memories with you all and i hope to see you soon,” she continued.
Advertisement
Closing her message, the rapper thanked supporters for their patience and loyalty. She noted, “You are all so greatly appreciated and please know that i never take your time or support lightly i love yall so much & i promise i will make this one up to you.”
North West Leaves Fans Waiting For Her ‘Something Special’
MEGA
While North declined to explain why the Kimokawaii Tour was called off, she made it clear that she wasn’t planning to stay away for long.
Her promise of “something special” immediately sparked curiosity among fans, especially as the tour continued disappearing from official platforms.
Ticketmaster has since marked the August 5 Dallas opener and the August 17 Toronto show as canceled, while AXS removed the August 27 Los Angeles date from its listings.
The Kimokawaii Tour page has also been taken down from Santana’s official website, further signaling that the North American run has been shelved.
Advertisement
Neither artist has indicated whether the canceled performances will be rescheduled, leaving fans eagerly awaiting details about the project North hinted is already on the horizon.
North Reached A Major Milestone Before Her Tour Plans
If North West’s latest promise is any indication, she isn’t letting the canceled tour define her next chapter.
Fans already got a preview of her growing confidence as a performer when she stepped onto a major festival stage for her first solo set.
In June 2026, the then-12-year-old made her first-ever solo music festival appearance at Lyrical Lemonade’s Summer Smash in Bridgeview, Illinois, stepping onto the stage in an all-black Balenciaga outfit, oversized sunglasses, and blue pigtails.
Advertisement
During the set, North performed “TALKING,” her collaboration with her father Kanye, along with songs from her debut EP, “N0rth4Evr.”
The crowd enthusiastically cheered her on as both of her parents celebrated the milestone from the audience and on social media.
Kim later shared backstage photos and performance clips on Instagram, while Kanye reposted videos of the performance on his own account.
North West’s Biggest Cheerleaders Are Her Own Family
KCS Presse / MEGA
North’s growing confidence as a performer has been matched every step of the way by unwavering support from the Kardashian-Jenner family.
When she released her debut EP, “N0rth4evr,” in May, her famous relatives turned the milestone into a family celebration.
Advertisement
As PEOPLE reported, North gave fans a glimpse of the festivities on Instagram Stories, showing off balloon displays spelling out the EP’s title and other decorations Kim arranged at home as snippets of “Aishite” played in the background.
Elsewhere, Kris Jenner, Khloé Kardashian, and Rob Kardashian each took to Instagram Stories to share screenshots of themselves streaming the six-track project, with Rob making one of his rare social media appearances to publicly celebrate his niece.
The support continued offline during North’s two-day Complex LA pop-up event, where Kanye greeted fans, posed for photos, and signed merchandise before Kim later joined the celebration.
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
Everyone wears sandals with dresses. Kate Hudson, however, wore a unique shoe style that not only appears more elevated, but also transitions beautifully from summer to fall. We found her luxe look on sale for only $40!
While posing with her daughter in Athens, Greece, Hudson wore a silky blue dress and jelly-looking woven flats. Her nude shoes have a subtle hint of shine, as do these Amazon wonders. They’re a triple threat of fashionable style, hitting three major trends at once. As one reviewer puts it, they’re “an affordable way to get the jelly look, mesh look and ballet slipper all in one.” Sold!
These Cushionaire Siesta Lattice Jelly Flats nail Hudson’s vibe to a T. And no, they aren’t the sticky, sweaty jellies you may remember from the ’80s. The revived style is refined, cushioned and genuinely wearable, so don’t be surprised if you choose these slip-ons daily.
Nothing elevates an outfit quite like an expensive-looking bag, and Chrissy Teigen wore the most luxe version of all. Her Bottega Veneta crossbody costs thousands, but we found the signature look for only $42 on Amazon. Seriously, nobody will know the difference! During a European family vacation in Croatia, Teigen stepped out in the most […]
The woven design gives them a contemporary flair while the round toe keeps things classic. Hence, these chic flats are polished enough to wear with wide-leg pants, midi skirts and silky dresses à la Hudson, and you’ll probably do all of the above.
One Amazon shopper said they “needed something other than flip-flops or sneakers” and wrote that “these are perfect.” Another happy fan shared, “Not only are [they] the cutest jelly shoes, but [they’re] the most comfortable ever! I have tried several jelly shoes but [they] always hurt my feet. I can walk miles in these.”
Hudson makes classy look easy because — with the right pieces — it actually is. All you need is your favorite dress, these trendy flats and the confidence to rock the combo. We’re totally here for the jelly flats renaissance.
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
If you’re seeing Nicole Kidman‘s woven shoe style all over your feed, same. Whether you call it a sneakerina, ballet sneaker, ‘jazz shoe’ or anything in between, there’s no denying it appears expensive. We found Kidman’s luxe look hiding on Amazon! For the 2026 Wimbledon Tennis Tournament, Kidman paired a cream-colored power suit with ballet […]
2026 has already been a rampaging year for cinematic excellence, with everything from universe-traversing adventure epics like Project Hail Mary to psychologically chilling indie box office hits like Obsession. It shapes as being a monumental year for fantasy in particular, with titles like The Odyssey, Toy Story 5, and even HBO’s small-screen exploits like House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms highlighting the full emotional scope of the genre.
This booming interest in fantasy stories presents a wonderful opportunity for movie lovers to indulge in cinema’s rich history in the genre as well. Whether it’s due to thematic similarities between past classics and cultural hits of this year or celebrating major anniversaries of some of fantasy film’s greatest ever titles, these fantasy masterpieces are all must-see movies in 2026.
Advertisement
‘The Odyssey’ (2026)
Matt Damon as Odysseus before a battle scene in The Odyssey (2026)Image via Universal Pictures
It could be presumptuous to herald The Odyssey as an instant classic, but its widespread fanfare and universal critical acclaim certainly signal that Sir Christopher Nolan’s latest movie will be discussed for many years to come. Powered by the filmmaker’s trademark commitment to practical filming, Homer’s epic poem is brought to the screen with an unmistakable sense of gravitas that stems from its commanding ensemble cast as much as it does from its stunning visuals and bold adaptive storytelling.
Every step of Odysseus’s (Matt Damon) famous journey is depicted with astute craft and imposing magnitude. The Odyssey has enshrined itself as not only the must-see cinematic event of the year, but as one that demands to be watched on the biggest screen possible. Whether it will come to be viewed as Nolan’s greatest film is yet to be seen, but it is undeniable that it features every bit of the gripping cinematic brilliance and enormous scale that have made him the defining director of the 21st century thus far.
Advertisement
‘Nostos: The Return’ (1989)
Odysseus’s ancient Greek ship sails on stil water against a bleak sunset in ‘Nostos: The Return’ (1989).Image via Mikado Film
While it isn’t a traditional classic of mainstream cinema, Nostos: The Return is something of a revered gem as far as international arthouse movies go, and there has never been a better time to revisit it than right now. Adapting The Odyssey, it follows Odysseus’s (Luigi Mezzanotte) voyage home after the Trojan War. However, it’s more of a spiritual exploration of themes of memory, the passage of time, and humanity’s complex relationship with nature rather than a narrative-driven story.
Dialogue is minimal, and what dialogue there is is a made-up concoction of ancient Greek, Sanskrit, and Latin; the bold creative decision allows the visual storytelling and cinematic poetry to take center stage. While it understandably won’t appeal to everyone, those who love Nolan’s interpretation of The Odyssey and want to delve deeper into Homer’s world and themes would do well to find Nostos: The Return to explore the story in a completely different fashion.
Advertisement
‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’ (2001)
Aragorn, Gandalf, Legolas, Boromir, Samwise, Frodo, Gimli, Merry, and Pippin forming The Fellowship in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the RingImage via New Line Cinema
Originating from the mind of J. R. R. Tolkien, the stories of Middle-earth have become a defining masterpiece of high fantasy storytelling. 2026 marks a significant year for the franchise in media, as it marks the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking release of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The magnificent introduction to the fantasy realm for many, it immerses viewers in the majesty, wonder, and danger of Middle-earth.
The film sees Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) and the fellowship begin their journey to destroy Sauron’s evil ring of power in the fires of Mount Doom. Beautifully handled by Sir Peter Jackson and his team, the Oscar-winning film is viewed by many as being the single greatest fantasy movie of all time, an utterly enchanting masterpiece that has proven ageless with its emotional depth and technical mastery.
Advertisement
‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ (2001)
Harry Potter, played by Daniel Radcliffe, holding a wand in ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.’Image via Warner Bros.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is particularly relevant this year, with fans eagerly awaiting the HBO adaptation of this esteemed fantasy series. However, an incredibly high bar has been set by the original 2001 film, which found a perfect balance between childlike wonder, enrapturing adventure, and detailed worldbuilding to be utterly enchanting from start to finish.
From its humor and charm, ability to marry backstory and character depth with propulsive entertainment, and rich allure that is as universally accessible as it is infectious, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a true masterpiece of the genre. Whether it’s diehard fans of the series returning to it for the umpteenth time, adults returning to a childhood favorite decades later, or even a first-ever viewing, the first Harry Potter movie deserves to be celebrated anew in 2026.
Advertisement
Collider Exclusive · The Sorting Hat Awaits Which Hogwarts House Are You? Gryffindor · Slytherin · Hufflepuff · Ravenclaw
Advertisement
Four houses. One destiny. The Sorting Hat has considered thousands of students — now it’s your turn. Answer honestly and discover where you truly belong at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
🦁Gryffindor
🐍Slytherin
🦡Hufflepuff
🦅Ravenclaw
Advertisement
01
Advertisement
What quality do you value most in yourself? Answer as honestly as you can — the Hat always knows.
02
Advertisement
A friend is being treated unfairly. What do you do? How you protect others says everything about who you are.
03
Advertisement
What does success look like to you? What you’re working toward defines who you’re becoming.
04
Advertisement
What is your greatest fear? Fear is the most honest thing about a person.
05
Advertisement
The rules say no. Your gut says go. What do you do? Every institution has rules. What you do with them is a choice.
06
Advertisement
What kind of friend are you? Who you are to the people you love is who you really are.
07
Advertisement
You look into the Mirror of Erised. What do you see? The mirror shows the deepest desire of your heart.
08
Advertisement
The Sorting Hat pauses. It whispers: “You could do well in any house. But what matters most to you — truly?” This is your tiebreaker. The Hat always listens.
The Sorting Hat Speaks Your House Has Been Chosen
Advertisement
After careful deliberation, the Sorting Hat has made its decision. This is the house your values, your instincts, and your particular way of being in the world were made for.
Gryffindor Tower · Scarlet & Gold
Advertisement
🦁 Gryffindor
You have nerve. Not the reckless kind, but the deep, quiet courage that shows up even when you’re terrified — especially then.
Gryffindors don’t act because they’re fearless — they act because they understand that some things are worth being afraid for.
You stand up for people when it would be easier to look away.
You charge toward what’s right even when the odds are terrible.
Harry, Hermione, Ron — the heroes of Hogwarts’s greatest chapter — all called the tower with the scarlet and gold home. And now, so do you.
Slytherin Dungeon · Emerald & Silver
Advertisement
🐍 Slytherin
You are driven, sharp, and utterly clear-eyed about what you want and how to get there.
Slytherin has long been misunderstood — painted as the house of villains when it is, at its best, the house of those who refuse to accept limits placed on them by others.
You are resourceful, strategic, and you play the long game.
You know your worth. You protect your own fiercely.
The dungeon common room with its view of the Black Lake is yours — and the ambitions that will take you further than anyone expects are yours too.
Hufflepuff Basement · Yellow & Black
Advertisement
🦡 Hufflepuff
You are the kind of person that makes the world genuinely better just by being in it.
Hufflepuff is not the “safe” house or the “leftover” house — it is the house of those with the greatest heart and the most unwavering integrity.
You show up. You work hard. You don’t need glory or recognition — you do what’s right because it’s right.
Your loyalty never wavers, even when tested.
Nymphadora Tonks, Cedric Diggory, Newt Scamander — some of the wizarding world’s finest. And now you join them.
Ravenclaw Tower · Blue & Bronze
Advertisement
🦅 Ravenclaw
Your mind is your greatest gift, and you’ve always known it.
Ravenclaws are the thinkers, the questioners, the ones who find a puzzle irresistible and a good book better company than most people.
Ravenclaw is not merely about intelligence — it’s about the love of learning, the pursuit of truth, and the rare courage to admit you don’t know something yet.
You see the world with unusual clarity and depth.
Luna Lovegood, Filius Flitwick, Rowena Ravenclaw herself — all extraordinary, all original. And so are you.
Advertisement
‘Pan’s Labyrinth’ (2006)
Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
Pan’s Labyrinth is the perfect mix of fairy tale awe, dark fantasy horror, and real-world drama. Complimented by director Guillermo del Toro’s trademark Gothic style, it unfolds in Francoist Spain as young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero), along with her heavily pregnant mother, relocates to a remote farmhouse at the behest of her brutish stepfather, a military captain hunting down rebels. Amid the woodland, Ofelia meets a faun who tells her she can return to her rightful place as the Princess of the Underworld if she completes three dangerous tasks.
Advertisement
While it indulges in moments of shocking violence and visceral terror, Pan’s Labyrinth excels. At its heart, it maintains a sense of fairy tale innocence, beautifully complemented by outstanding visuals and a spellbinding score that brings the fantasy allure of the picture to vibrant life. With 2026 signaling 20 years since the movie premiered, now is as good a time as any to rewatch the morbid, mystifying, and majestic masterpiece.
‘Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron’ (2002)
Little Creek riding Spirit the horse in Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron.Image via DreamWorks Animation
In the Chinese calendar, 2026 is a remarkably rare year as, for the first time since 1966, it stands as the year of the Fire Horse. While the cult classic animated gem Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron may not feature any stallions ablaze, it is the perfect movie to celebrate this incredibly rare milestone. It captures the spirit of the zodiac, which embodies intense passion, strong independence, fearless courage, and nobility in leadership.
Advertisement
Combining fantasy beats with a rich Western setting, Spirit follows mustang stallion Spirit (Matt Damon) as he roams the wild expanses of the American frontier, forming an unlikely friendship and finding love while becoming an unsung hero of the Old West. The 2002 DreamWorks Animation release is largely a forgotten gem of the form, but it remains a childhood favorite for many who grew up in the era, thanks to its tender balance of historical adventure, kid-friendly fantasy, and animated splendor.
‘Labyrinth’ (1986)
The Goblin King (David Bowie) stands behind Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) in a surreal landscape of dead trees and sunset in ‘Labyrinth’ (1986).Image via Tri-Star Pictures
Even in such a vast and eclectic field of cult classics produced by the 1980s, Labyrinth is a standout, offbeat gem that mixes wondrous puppetry and dark fantasy edge. Bolstered by David Bowie’s unforgettable performance as the Goblin King, it follows young Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) as she ventures into the villain’s labyrinth, having to successfully navigate the mind-boggling maze in 13 hours to save her baby brother.
Advertisement
Despite its middling box office performance and mixed reviews, Labyrinth has emerged as an infectious fan favorite that has aged gracefully. The practical creature designs and Jim Henson’s impressionable puppetry have become tactile and unique in the modern world of CGI effects that strive for realism. Picture theaters the world over will be hosting re-screenings this year to commemorate the film’s 40-year anniversary, making it a perfect time for fans to revisit the cult gem as well as for intrigued fantasy lovers to experience the movie for the first time.
‘Excalibur’ (1981)
When did fantasy cinema stop looking like this? Embracing a sense of stylized eccentricity, John Boorman blends gleaming chrome armor with the gorgeous landscapes of Ireland and eye-catching lighting techniques to conjure a visual spectacle of irresistible majesty. However, far more than just a stunning exercise in style, Excalibur also thrives as one of the best retellings of Arthurian legend ever put to screen, one that isn’t afraid to stray into the moral foibles of dark fantasy to bring a distinct edge to the familiar story.
Even as its efforts to cram the entirety of Arthurian lore into its 141-minute runtime sometimes lead to clunky and hurried storytelling, Excalibur still absorbs viewers with imposing, dreamlike beauty and indulgent excess. It also features an unforgettable operatic soundtrack, several captivating action sequences, and an ensemble cast of young upstarts who went on to become some of the biggest stars of their generation. Excalibur is a treat of ‘80s fantasy awe that is arguably even more enthralling 45 years on.
Advertisement
‘Faust’ (1926)
Image via MGM
Anniversaries are a big deal in cinema. From minor milestones like 10 or 15 years to more substantial landmarks like half-century celebrations, movie lovers always grasp an opportunity to commend the films of yesteryear when such dates arrive. Few movies have had the opportunity to enjoy a centennial sensation, but F. W. Murnau’s silent fantasy classic is one that can hopefully attract some attention, especially given how it delves into religious and moral themes with piercing depth despite not being afforded the luxury of sound.
Instead of dialogue, the German picture leans heavily on ageless expressionist visuals, innovative special effects, and brilliant physical performances. It depicts a grim tale of corruption, redemption, and deceit following a misguided old alchemist led astray by a demon as he tries to help his plague-riddled village. Derived from traditional folklore tales and a portion of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s 1808 play, Faust endures even 100 years later as a striking fantasy-horror movie that all cinema lovers should seek out.
Advertisement
‘Spirited Away’ (2001)
Chihiro and No-Face wait on the train in ‘Spirited Away’Image via Studio Ghibli
Another magnificent triumph of animated cinema that is revered by many as being the greatest picture the form has ever seen, Spirited Away is a masterclass in worldbuilding, visual style, and fairy tale storytelling that stands as a magnum opus in Hayao Miyazaki’s illustrious career. Produced by Studio Ghibli, the Japanese film follows a young girl as she finds herself lost in a magical realm and having to work under the thumb of supernatural beings to save her parents, who have been turned into pigs.
Striking a deft balance between sheer otherworldly wonder and softly subdued eeriness, Spirited Away is a transfixing viewing experience, an enrapturing immersion into one of the most magical worlds ever conceived for cinema that is both exciting and wicked. Marking 25 years since the animated family classic was first released, 2026 is a perfect opportunity to return to Miyazaki’s majestic fantasy imagination.
QVC host Rick Domeier is ready to begin a new chapter away from the shopping network.
“At the end of the year, I’ll be going down a very different road — a road I’ve never been on before. It’s called retirement road,” Domeier, 65, exclusively shared with Us on Wednesday, July 29. “I heard it’s fun, and I’m going to be retiring at the end of this year, end of December.”
The longtime host — who joined QVC in October 1994 — officially announced the news live on air during his Rick St. Nick show on Thursday, July 30, as part of QVC’s Christmas in July finale.
According to Domeier, the decision was made after some long, thoughtful chats with his wife, Amy.
After 37 years with QVC, Mary Beth Roe hosted her final show on the shopping network. “Everything in the show tonight is something that I chose and it really is special,” Roe, 65, shared with viewers during My Time with Mary Beth — Retirement Celebration on Friday, March 21. “The people that are here tonight […]
“We both agreed that now’s the perfect time for me to kind of cruise down retirement road while most of this engine is still functioning,” he joked. “That’s going to give me the next few months to thank the incredible people I work with backstage, the producers, the directors, the on-air talent and thank the most important person at QVC, which is the QVC customer, for having been with me and accepted me for what will be 32 years.”
Advertisement
Rick DomeierCourtesy of QVC
In his final months on air, Domeier certainly won’t be slowing down.
While he looks forward to hosting special shows with Valerie Parr Hill, spotlighting food brands like Corky’s and Rastelli and highlighting beautiful jewelry with David Markstein, Jill Bauer and JAI, there’s something new Domeier will be launching.
“They’re giving me a new show. It’s called Rick Hits the Road. We’re going to do some broadcasts from different cities,” he teased. “The first stop is New Orleans. That’s coming up next week. It’s going to be with Jimmy Stovall and Ali Carr and the crew, and we’re going to meet the QVC customer. More stops to come.”
When looking back on his QVC journey, Domeier realized viewers watched him get married, become a father of two sons and work with several celebrities, including the late Joan Rivers.
Rick DomeierCourtesy of QVC
As he looks toward the future, Domeier is excited to spend quality time with family and friends — without the thought of an alarm clock to kick off a Today’s Special Value.
“My wife and I are gonna spend some time together. … We have a lot of travel ideas,” he teased. “There’s also a wedding coming up with my son that’s coming up in 2027. There’s also an opportunity to reconnect with friends. I also want to stay in touch with the team that I work with now. I’m really into fitness and longevity for obvious reasons. I want to keep that going, so it’s all about exploring and learning and then sharing. I kind of want to document how this goes. I want to find out what retirement is all about.”
Some QVC shoppers can’t help but make a connection with some of the network’s products — and hosts. Over the years, viewers have developed close bonds with longtime program hosts who have a gift of selling everything from fashion and beauty products to food and electronics. Every so often, some of the program hosts decide […]
While it’s too soon to announce an official retirement show, QVC viewers know the network loves to honor their talented hosts with special programs before they say goodbye.
If Domeier were a betting man, he predicts there’ll be “moments” to remember.
“There’ll be clips. There’ll be people stopping by,” he predicted. “I do think that there’s going to be a live audience show or two. I want that to happen. I want it to be in person. I want it to be celebratory. I am excited about this next chapter. I want it to be more fun than sad.”
Days before the premiere of Netflix’s “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare,” convicted killer Bryan Kohberger sought to withdraw his guilty pleas and overturn his convictions.
Taylor Swift’s longtime bond with Blake Lively’s family has reportedly become one of the most heartbreaking casualties of the actress’s ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni.
While the pop superstar was once deeply involved in the lives of Lively’s daughters, insiders now claim she has stepped away from her role as their godmother after deciding there was “no choice” but to distance herself completely.
The reported decision has left one of Hollywood’s closest friendships seemingly beyond repair.
5AdMedia / MEGA
With Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s legal battle pulling high-profile names into the spotlight, Taylor Swift ultimately became one of the biggest celebrities linked to the controversy.
According to Daily Mail insiders, the fallout has now reportedly ended not only her decade-long friendship with Lively but also her role as godmother to the actress’ daughters James, Inez, and Betty, 6, whom she shares with Ryan Reynolds.
Advertisement
“It was one of the toughest decisions she’s ever had to make,” a source close to the singer claimed, adding, “It was very emotional because she loves the girls. It hurt her heart, but she had no choice given the circumstances.”
According to the insider, Swift made the decision “a few months ago” after discussing the situation with her new husband, Travis Kelce, and concluding it “was the right thing to do.”
“There was never an agreement in writing about her being the girls’ godmother. It was a verbal one between Taylor and Blake,” the source added.
Although the arrangement was reportedly informal, Taylor Swift was said to have embraced the role completely.
Over the years, she frequently spent time with Lively, Reynolds, and their children, hosting the family at her Rhode Island home, celebrating Halloween together, and incorporating the girls into her music.
Advertisement
She famously featured James’ baby voice at the beginning of “Gorgeous” and later even used the names James, Inez, and Betty as characters across songs from her 2020 album “Folklore.”
Then in July 2024, the Grammy Award winner publicly acknowledged the relationship promoting Reynolds’ “Deadpool & Wolverine.”
“Shout out to Wade Wilson, aka my godkids’ sperm donor!” she joked, referencing Reynolds’ Marvel character.
Reynolds later confirmed the title during an interview with Deadline, saying, “I’m going to need that on my gravestone, actually. She is the godparent to my daughters. That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that.”
Advertisement
Taylor Swift Even Surprised The Girls By Including Them In Her Music
Swift’s relationship with the children extended well beyond public appearances. Reynolds previously revealed that even the girls had no idea their names would appear on “Folklore” until the album was released.
“We surprised them with it,” the actor said during a SiriusXM “Town Hall” interview in 2021, further noting, “They didn’t know. They had no idea.”
While performing in Madrid during the Eras Tour in May 2024, Swift also acknowledged the sisters in front of thousands of fans.
“I have to say that on Folklore, some of my favorite characters are named James, Inez and Betty,” she said, as the three girls reportedly celebrated from premium seats alongside their mother.
According to insiders, however, moments like those are unlikely to continue following the reported breakdown of Swift’s friendship with Lively.
Advertisement
Swift Reportedly Hopes To Reconnect With The Children Someday
Sources say the reported decision continues to weigh heavily on Taylor Swift, even as she enjoys a new chapter in her personal life following her marriage to Travis Kelce.
“Taylor’s having the time of her life now that she is married, her family is great, her career is great and she’s looking forward to the future,” another insider shared, adding, “The only thing that is causing troubles in her life is Blake’s kids and not having the relationship she would like to have with them as their godmother.”
The source also noted that the 36-year-old believes maintaining a close relationship with the children while having virtually no relationship with their parents would place them in an unfair position.
According to them, “Taylor doesn’t believe it’s fair to anyone involved – especially the kids – to put them in the middle of such a strained situation. She believes stepping away is the most respectful path forward for all parties.”
Despite the painful decision, another source claimed Swift still hopes the relationship can one day be repaired.
Advertisement
“She hopes that once the children are adults, and 18 and able to make their own decisions, they’ll be free to reconnect if they choose,” the source explained.
Source Suggests Blake Lively Knows More About Taylor Swift Than The Public Realizes
While the future of Swift and Lively’s friendship remains uncertain, recent insider claims suggest there’s still plenty the public doesn’t know about their once-close relationship.
According to a new insider, one reason the reported fallout attracted so much attention was because the “Gossip Girl” actress allegedly possessed deeply personal knowledge about Swift that had never been shared publicly.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, the source claimed, “Blake knows plenty about Taylor that has never become public,” while insisting there is no expectation that the actress would reveal those details.
The insider further alleged that Swift had no concerns about Lively speaking out, claiming she had “complete faith” that any private conversations would remain confidential despite their reported estrangement.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login