A free weekend is a blank slate, and many people use that time to watch a feature film. So, naturally, no one wants to waste their valuable free time on a mediocre movie with questionable impressions — they’d rather be blown away by near-perfect content that feels both classic and brand-new at the same time.

Everyone has a different definition of a near-perfect film, but Rotten Tomatoes is the go-to site for finding an almost flawless pick. Some of these recommendations are timeless classics that many people adore, but if you haven’t seen them yet — or want to rewatch something you haven’t seen in a long time — here are six near-perfect on Rotten Tomatoes movies to watch this weekend.

1

‘The Truman Show’ (1998)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 95% Certified Fresh

Image via Paramount Pictures 

The Truman Show is a sci-fi comedy/drama starring Jim Carrey in one of his most iconic roles. It was written by Andrew Niccol and directed by Peter Weir, and it is a prescient satire on reality television, media manipulation, and the nature of free will. Carrey gives the performance of his career, portraying a heartbreakingly sincere character who never veers into cartoonish territory. Many of the film’s themes still resonate with audiences today, particularly in this age of constant screen time and connectivity. The film has a 95% Certified Fresh rating and received three Oscar nominations.

The Truman Show follows Truman Burbank (Carrey), a cheerful, ordinary insurance salesman living a dream life in the idyllic seaside town of Seahaven. What he doesn’t realize is that his entire life has been a 24-hour reality TV show broadcast around the world since he was born. Every person and thing in his life, including his wife Meryl (Laura Linney), best friend Marlon (Noah Emmerich), daily events, and even the weather, are paid actors playing scripted roles. When small glitches appear, Truman’s carefully constructed reality begins to unravel, and he gradually realizes that things aren’t as they seem. The Truman Show is ideal for a weekend of thought-provoking, funny, and emotionally charged entertainment.

2

‘The Social Network’ (2010)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96% Certified Fresh

The biopic drama The Social Network is widely regarded as David Fincher‘s best directorial work. Fincher’s dark and sleek visuals, combined with Aaron Sorkin‘s chatty, poignant screenplay, transform a story about the creation of the world’s most famous social media platform into a Shakespearean tragedy with themes of friendship and greed. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross complete the experience with their haunting electronic score, which earned them a well-deserved Oscar. The film was based on Ben Mezrich‘s novel The Accidental Billionaires, and Sorkin also won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film has a 96% Rotten Tomatoes rating and is endlessly watchable.

The Social Network is set in 2003 and follows Harvard undergraduate Mark Zuckerberg (Jesse Eisenberg). The opening scene depicts Zuckerberg being dumped by his girlfriend, and in a fit of drunken inspiration, he creates a campus website called “Facemash.” Its viral success inspires the creation of “The Facebook,” a social networking site that takes off across Ivy League campuses. However, as the platform grows, so do the lawsuits, particularly those filed by three classmates who claim Zuckerberg stole their idea, as well as his former best friend and CFO, Eduardo Saverin (Andrew Garfield). Fincher’s film alternates between depositions and flashbacks, telling a story of ambition, betrayal, and the chaotic start of a billion-dollar empire. The Social Network is ideal for a weekend when you want sharp writing, brilliant performances, and a story that feels (and mostly is) unsettlingly real.

3

‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97% Certified Fresh

Image via Warner Bros.

Many people believe that George Miller‘s masterpiece Mad Max: Fury Road is the most perfectly directed action film of our time. He conceived the story in the 1980s, when his Mad Max trilogy was at its peak of popularity, but it was shelved due to production delays, global events, and other unavoidable factors. It’s interesting because Fury Road appears to have arrived at the ideal time, when Miller was free to create a sandy, dystopian world with cutting-edge technology and stunning practical effects. The story is told almost entirely through images, the pacing is relentless, and each frame resembles a painting. Fury Road‘s protagonist, Furiosa (Charlize Theron), has become an icon, and the film has a feminist heart beneath its chrome-plated dusty exterior. The film received six Oscars and has a nearly perfect 97% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Mad Max: Fury Road is an action sci-fi epic set in a scorched, post-apocalyptic wasteland where water and gasoline are considered currencies. Imperator Furiosa, a war rig driver for the tyrannical Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne), devises a desperate plan: she smuggles Joe’s five wives out of his fortress and drives them to a fabled “Green Place.” The entire war party is pursuing her, and she is joined by a captured loner named Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy), who is reluctantly drawn into the chase. Fury Road is a two-hour high-speed chase through the desert with realistic stunts, powerful engines, and minimal CGI. This film is ideal for a weekend when you want adrenaline, spectacle, and pure cinematic bliss.

4

‘Inside Out’ (2015)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 98% Certified Fresh

Image via Pixar

For fans of animated films, the last decade has seen some incredible additions to the genre. Inside Out stands out as the ideal animated comedy-drama that appears to be intended for children but also speaks to adults. Inside Out is the most emotionally intelligent animated film ever made, and it focuses on an intriguing topic: why humans need to feel and experience sadness. With this film, Pixar fully intended to make us all cry over a forgotten imaginary friend and reframe depression and low mood as a natural part of growing up, making the film a perfect coming-of-age story. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a 98% rating, and it won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. It was also nominated for Best Original Screenplay.

Inside Out follows Riley Andersen, an 11-year-old who relocates with her parents from Minnesota to San Francisco, leaving behind her hockey team, friends, and everything she knows. The “control panel” in her head is run by five emotions: Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), and Disgust (Mindy Kaling). When Joy and Sadness are accidentally swept into the far reaches of Riley’s mind, Fear, Anger, and Disgust take over, and the lost emotions must return to Headquarters before Riley loses her ability to feel happy. Inside Out, with its brilliant voice cast and wonderful life lessons, is the ideal film for a weekend when you want to laugh, cry, and feel profoundly understood; if you have any family nearby, particularly children, this is the perfect choice.

5

‘Parasite’ (2019)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 99% Certified Fresh

Image via CJ Entertainment

Parasite is a brilliant psychological thriller that also serves as a dark satire. Bong Joon-ho‘s films frequently criticize capitalism and class divides, and Parasite is one of his most effective examples. Parasite is a masterful film that seamlessly transitions between class satire and horror, delivering a powerful plot twist that you never would have expected. Bong’s screenplay is tight, with every detail working in its favor, and everything from production design and music to performances is flawless. That makes Parasite not just near-perfect, but actually perfect. It received six Oscar nominations and won four, including Best Picture, making history as the first non-English-language film to do so.

Parasite follows the impoverished Kim family: father Ki-taek (Song Kang-ho), mother Chung-sook, son Ki-woo, and daughter Ki-jung. They live in a cramped, semi-basement apartment, folding pizza boxes for spare cash, when Ki-woo gets a job as a tutor for the wealthy Park family’s daughter. While doing that, he sees an opportunity, and the Kims gradually infiltrate the Parks’ household, posing as unrelated, highly qualified professionals: Ki-jung as an art therapist, Ki-taek as a driver, and Chung-sook as a housekeeper. Their plan works perfectly until the former housekeeper returns, revealing a terrifying secret hidden deep within the Parks’ modernist home. You’ll laugh, be scared, and maybe even cry; schedule Parasite for a weekend when you want something smart, tense, and completely absorbing.

6

‘Toy Story’ (1995)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100% Certified Fresh

Image via Pixar Animation Studios

So, while Toy Story may not fit into the “near-perfect” category due to its 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating, its audience score isn’t at its highest, so we can technically still call it an almost flawless film. Toy Story, if you aren’t aware, is a classic animated Pixar film for the entire family, and families with children who have free weekends will undoubtedly want to spend every minute with them, making Toy Story the perfect movie to watch in these circumstances; this film is funny, heartwarming, and timeless. Toy Story is well-known as the film that revolutionized animation and demonstrated that CGI could tell emotionally complex stories. It became the first animated film to be nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Oscars.

Toy Story is set in a world in which toys come to life when humans are not around. Woody (Tom Hanks), Andy’s favorite pull-string cowboy doll, is the story’s protagonist, and Woody’s comfortable reign among Andy’s other toys is upended when Andy receives a flashy new space ranger action figure for his birthday: Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), who considers himself a true hero on a mission. After being separated from Andy, the rivals must band together to escape the clutches of his sadistic neighbor, Sid, and return home before Andy moves away. Toy Story is perfect for a weekend with the family or a solo nostalgia trip that will make you cry happy tears and reflect.

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Toy Story

Release Date

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October 30, 1995

Runtime

81 minutes

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Director

John Lasseter

Writers

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John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, Joss Whedon, Alec Sokolow, Joel Cohen, Joe Ranft, Pete Docter

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  Tim Allen

  Buzz Lightyear (voice)

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Justin Baldoni’s longtime friend Adam Mondschein is sharing a glimpse into the actor’s mindset after his It Ends With Us legal battle with Blake Lively was settled before trial.

“His sentiment, to me, is just relief as a friend, but also needing prayers and love and thoughts to weather the next stage,” Mondschein, 50, exclusively shared with Us Weekly on Thursday, May 7. “The relief is there. The support is beautiful — from the community, from the strangers, from the world.”

Mondschein said his friend was “literally recovering from a cold” this week before adding, “It’s the emotional taxing on the family. It’s the emotional tax of all of this. I think it’s been overwhelming.”

News broke on Monday, May 4, that Lively, 38, and Baldoni, 42, had reached a settlement in their highly contentious It Ends With Us lawsuit, which began in December 2024.

Related: Why Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s Trial Became ‘Too Dangerous’

This week on Legally Us, Rachael Bennett, a certified family law specialist and senior attorney at Sullivan Law & Associates, breaks down Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively’s legal settlement. On Monday, May 4, news broke that Blake Lively, 38, and Justin Baldoni, 42, had reached a settlement in their lawsuit after nearly two years, just […]

“The end product – the movie It Ends With Us – is a source of pride to all of us who worked to bring it to life. Raising awareness, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of domestic violence survivors – and all survivors – is a goal that we stand behind,” lawyers for both parties said in a statement to Us. “We acknowledge the process presented challenges and recognize concerns raised by Ms. Lively deserved to be heard.”

The statement continued, “We remain firmly committed to workplaces free of improprieties and unproductive environments. It is our sincere hope that this brings closure and allows all involved to move forward constructively and in peace, including a respectful environment online.”

While a settlement avoids a trial in New York City, Lively filed a notice of settlement on Thursday, in which she requested damages to cover her attorneys’ fees and costs, as well as compensatory and punitive damages.

“I think they’re waiting to truly celebrate. But there’s just no question that this is a win,” Mondschein claimed to Us about the settlement. “I think they’re very relieved, and they’re excited for the day that the celebration can actually begin, but because it’s not truly over for them, I think we’re the ones that get to kind of, like, celebrate a little bit for them. … We’ll all be very glad when this is, I mean, no longer part of the general conversation.”

“They have weathered this in their hearts for such a long time,” Mondschein added. “I think there is an emotional cost to this on a personal level.”

Baldoni and Lively’s settlement came as both parties appeared to be preparing for their upcoming trial, with jury selection expected to begin on Monday, May 18.

According to Mondschein, Baldoni didn’t fear having to go to trial.

“He never was going to quit,” Mondschein claimed. “They were excited for the day in one way to tell it in court along the way, but you’re seeing it tax your children, tax your wife, and then having to carry that. Also, having to keep staying firm. It is exhausting. He is not a quitter, I will tell you that.”

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Related: Blake Lively Docs Detailed Ryan Reynolds’ Discussion With Justin Baldoni

Blake Lively detailed a conversation involving Ryan Reynolds and Justin Baldoni in a deposition released ahead of the pair’s It Ends With Us settlement. Lively recalled in her January deposition that Baldoni visited her office to discuss script revisions in April 2023, which is when she brought up that she was “aware” of an “upsetting” […]

Before Baldoni found himself in a legal battle with his It Ends With Us costar, the actor gained success in Hollywood with roles in projects like Jane the Virgin, The Bold and the Beautiful and Everwood.

When asked if he could see his friend returning to the big or small screen for a role, Mondschein appeared optimistic that the opportunity would come one day soon.

“[I] feel like he needs the time to heal,” Mondschein shared. “For him to contemplate putting his heart out there to pick another project, he’ll just need the time to, like, truly feel safe as an artist.”

Season 15 of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” is nearing its end with only one part of the reunion left to air. Now, ahead of the episode, court documents have surfaced accusing cast member Dorit Kemsley of lavish spending by her ex-husband, PK Kemsley, as their home potentially heads into foreclosure.

TMZ obtained court documents in May 2026 in which Kemsley stated that his team had investigated their finances amid their divorce and recent money woes. Apparently, what he learned was that the “RHOBH” star had continued spending lavishly over the past year.

Notably, the documents state that the mom of two spent over $1 million on various luxury items during that time. Additionally, the Bravo personality is accused of dishing out around $995k on designer clothing, handbags, and unnamed accessories.

Apparently, her most visited stories were Louis Vuitton and Chanel, where she spent $69k at each. That’s not all, the documents also expose her for spending around $38K at Hermès. Other places Kemsley is said to have shopped amid their money woes are Net-A-Porter, FWRD, and Moda Operandi.

PK Kemsley Says He Tried To Avoid Foreclosure & Dorit Hasn’t Helped

Elsewhere in the court documents, Kemsley claims that his estranged wife made no payments toward their mortgage. This is despite her retaining full use of the mansion. The 58-year-old businessman also stated that he is responsible for 90% of the expenses for the family, as well as various costs related to the kids.

Regarding finances, the Kemsleys now owe more than $6 million in mortgage debt. The documents also back up recent claims that the home could soon be foreclosed upon. He went on to say that he’d tried to avoid that fate for more than a year and that he’d warned his estranged wife it was possible.

As a result, Kemsley told the court that he expressed interest in selling the home and offered to move the “RHOBH” star and their two sons to his other residence. However, she is accused of rejecting this. Now, he wants the court to force a sale of the marital home.

‘RHOBH’ Fans Are Reacting To The Report

“Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” fans have weighed in on Kemsleys’ spending for years, especially during season 15. Now, following her estranged husband’s court filings, their opinions are mixed. While most agree she hasn’t been the most responsible with money, they feel he’s not completely in the right either.

One person said on X, “And yet it was a stretch for Kyle to call her erratic. Spending 1 mil when your home is in foreclosure.”

A different social media user chimmed in, saying, “That’s some scary spending receipts, like what a wingding nutbar to prioritize fashion, over family, safely keeping a roof over your family’s heads, fool.”

Another “RHOBH” fan wrote, “During their marriage, he was the breadwinner and the one benefiting from having a hot wife with a luxurious life. Now that they are getting divorced, he is shocked she’s not paying the mortgage that he controlled. Why would she become something else just because they are divorcing?”

Dorit Previously Discussed The Status Of The Home

Kemsley appeared on Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live” in March 2026 to discuss “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” While on, Andy Cohen asked her about the status of her home, as it had been one of the most-asked questions from fans.

In discussing it, she confirmed the massive debt related to her unpaid mortgage. However, Kemsley claimed that her estranged husband was supposed to handle it. According to her, “Well, that was something I learned a few weeks ago before everyone else.”

She continued, “It’s something that PK was in charge of. I didn’t know it was not being paid. We’ve since spoken, and he agreed to bring it up to date.” After that, Kemsley announced plans to “put the house on the market,” once they were caught up on payments.

The ‘RHOBH’ Star Has A Book Coming Out

As documented on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” Kemsley has a book coming out, “Unburdened: A Memoir.” The forthcoming book arrives in stores on June 2 of this year and is published by Podium Entertainment.

She told PEOPLE about the book, “This book is one of the most personal and meaningful projects I’ve ever taken on, and I can’t wait for you to step into my world, my story, and my truth. For years, people have seen glimpses of my life — but this book is the full story. The beauty, the heartbreak, the fear, the fight, and the strength it took to become the woman I am today.”

Kemsley added, “I am writing this book not just to look back, but to move forward — with determination, grace and honesty.”

Prince Harry wishes things were different in the relationship between his kids and their cousins.

The Invictus Games founder allegedly did not receive the news of his niece’s birthday with excitement, as he was rather upset that his kids were missing out on spending time with Prince William‘s kids.

Tension rose between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal family after he married Meghan Markle in 2018, and things have not exactly changed in the dynamics of their relationship years later.

The Duke of Sussex is reportedly displeased with the fact that his kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, have not built close ties with their cousins, Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte. While they are having a great time in the United States, the longing for a life back home has not left the prince’s heart.

“Archie and Lili are having a lovely time in California, but Harry is very sad that they are missing out on life with the rest of their family,” a source stated. Prince Harry also feels his kids will not be a part of the extensive family network their family is enjoying, such as attending schools together and going on playdates.

Last week, the Prince and Princess of Wales shared lovely content to celebrate Charlotte’s 11th birthday, where she dressed up and posed in a field of flowers. As stated by Page Six, William and Kate also shared another image of enjoying a day out on the beach with their family pet as they thanked everyone for their kind wishes on her birthday.

Kate Middleton’s Bond With King Charles Influenced Her Relationship With Harry

Prince Harry and Kate’s friendship completely deteriorated when the former decided to bring an internal issue up in public, thus exposing the family for another round of unwarranted public attention.

The Princess of Wales became increasingly frustrated when Harry spoke publicly about Charles’ health, where he reportedly sowed seeds of doubts about his chances of a full recovery. As stated by The Blast, Harry had told the interviewer that he was unsure how long his father had left, and this hit Kate very hard.

On why she felt so attacked by that comment, a source claimed that Kate’s shared cancer battles with her father-in-law made her more sensitive to Charles’ feelings. According to the insider, “She knows better than anyone that having someone publicly imply you may be at death’s door is horribly demoralizing.”

Prince Harry’s Sister-In-Law Pitched Her Tent Behind Prince William Amid Conflict

The future king of England was not equally benevolent with his reaction to the interview, and concluded that reuniting with his brother was not in the books for him. Harry’s book “Spare” also contributed to the rage the prince felt towards his brother.

In the words of a source, William and Kate were united in their decision to shut the door once and for all when it comes to Harry. It was described as a profound decision on Kate’s part, as she had regularly been the bridge trying to mend the rift between the brothers.

As for the future of Kate and Harry’s relationship, a royal expert stated that there is no assurance that anything positive would happen in this regard in the foreseeable future. Despite the stance of William and Kate, Harry has reportedly expressed his openness to get back to default with his family and leave the past in the past.

King Charles Is Rooting For His Sons To Bury The Hatchet

As rumors have swirled that Prince Harry might start spending more time in the U.K., King Charles is reportedly keen to mend the years-long feud among the royal family. 

The king is also reported to be seeking a special opportunity to meet his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet. However, the insiders say that Prince William is not keen on Harry’s return to the royal fold. While Charles would like to move on from Harry, William will not consider it.

Insiders also shared that there is a private feud going on in the palace, and that William has a lot of weight behind the scenes. There are also a lot of people in the Firm out there who do not consider Harry and Meghan as people Charles would want to be around, and the support rate for their return is low.

Meghan Markle Reportedly On The Plan To Achieve The Royal Family Of Her Dreams

Since embarking on their successful trip to Australia, where they were warmly received, Meghan has reportedly become convinced that they can have their cake and eat it too when it comes to retaining their royal status without the backing of the palace. 

As reported by The Blast, the outcome of the trip showed the Duchess of Sussex that they can become a self-contained royal family from their Montecito home. Meghan fully believes that she and Harry can operate like an independent royal entity, all while enjoying the visibility and privileges of being royalty, while doing everything on their own terms.

However, critics have termed Meghan’s royal aspirations as kicks from a child, which holds no weight. According to the critics, their Australia trip is nothing but a front to grab cash and strengthen their brand.

Will this be the last straw for Prince Harry to finally whip up talks with his other side of the family?

The 2000s was an interesting decade that brought us exciting sitcoms like Curb Your Enthusiasm, Two and a Half Men, and Parks and Recreation, all of which have carved their places in TV history. But there are some forgotten sitcoms from that decade that made their marks, too, even if they fell to the wayside, at least for a period of time.

Most of these sitcoms aired for many seasons and made stars out of some of their then unknown cast members. One was sort of forgotten for a while until a recently launched sequel series reminded fans why it was so popular in the first place. They star comedians, country singers, and a few even hail from the U.K.

‘The Middle’ (2009–2018)

Image via ABC

Airing at the end of the decade, The Middle followed the trend of depicting a lower middle class family instead of a wealthy one, centering on their everyday struggles. It’s no surprise the series was created by a former writer from Roseanne, a groundbreaking show that flipped the script on the type of relatable average American family that could be depicted on television. What fans appreciated most about The Middle was the youngest son, Brick (Atticus Shaffer), who exhibits strange behaviors that helped people like him finally feel seen on TV.

The sitcom used the proven formula of making day-to-day struggles of working, paying bills, and raising kids humorous. From the small-town vibe to the distinct personalities of the kids, The Middle remains just as relevant today as it was when it debuted 17 years ago. While the series did last for nine seasons and only went off the air 12 years ago, it is one of those gems that is still worth watching.

‘Rules of Engagement’ (2007–2013)

Image via CBS

Rules of Engagement sort of flew under the radar for its entire run, never quite getting the fanfare it deserved but quietly bringing in viewers who laughed heartily at every episode. The winning five-friend formula is at its heart, but two are couples and one is the single odd-man out. The series showcases different levels of relationships, with a long-time married couple, a newly engaged one, and a single and dating one.

Produced by Adam Sandler‘s Happy Madison Productions, David Spade was the humorous glue that provided much of the comedy, though all the other main cast members held their own, too, including Patrick Warburton, Megyn Price, Oliver Hudson, and Bianca Kajlich. Adhir Kalyan joined in the third season as another single friend, creating an even funnier dynamic as the group got up to hijinks both together and on their own.

‘Malcolm in the Middle’ (2000–2006)

Image via FOX

Malcolm in the Middle wasn’t necessarily forgotten, but for the last two decades, it was only remembered as that sitcom where Walter White (Bryan Cranston) from Breaking Bad played the goofy dad. With the four-episode revival Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair coming out in April 2026, most of the original cast reuniting, it has sparked interest again in the original show.

Revisiting the show, one of the best comedy shows featuring big families, is a reminder of just how good it was. The story centers around a dysfunctional working-class family with four troublemaking boys. The eldest worst offender is sent off to military school while the three younger ones continue to wreak havoc at home. At the heart of it all is Malcolm (Frankie Muniz), who they discover in the first episode is a genius. The cast, the writing, the endless hijinks are totally addictive. My 14-year-old son expressed interest in watching, and he’s absolutely obsessed with it, storylines just as relevant for him today as they were a quarter-century ago.

‘The Inbetweeners’ (2008–2010)

Image via E4

This British coming-of-age sitcom is one of those hidden shows that anyone who discovers it today can’t seem to turn off. The story centers around teenager Will (Simon Bird) and his friends dealing with typical challenges at school. They often get themselves into awkward situations, inevitably leading to plenty of laughs.

The series highlights themes like male bonding and adolescent sexuality. While it spawned a short-lived American version on MTV, it’s the original that is really worth your time. Considered one of the best British sitcoms of this century, The Inbetweeners is just three short seasons of 18 episodes, an easy binge-watch.

‘Reba’ (2001–2007)

Image via The WB

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Reba McEntire might be known as a country music superstar, but she’s also an accomplished actor. Before starring in Happy’s Place and making guest appearances on Young Sheldon, she had her own sitcom. In it, she plays Reba Hart, a single mom left to tend to the entire family when her husband divorces her for his dental hygienist (interestingly played by Melissa Peterman, with whom McEntire now stars in Happy’s Place). It doesn’t help when Reba’s teenage daughter becomes pregnant, and the boyfriend moves in so they can raise the baby there.

Reba is sarcastic, witty, and sharp, and the show is wonderfully written. Airing for six seasons, it’s an endearing look at a strong woman who manages to keep it all together for both herself and her family, against all odds. As far as female empowerment shows go, Reba doesn’t get the credit it deserves. From the chemistry among the ensemble cast to the mixing of humor with heart that defined some of the best sitcoms in decades prior, Reba hit in all the right places. There was a sense of calm among the chaos of the family, a relatability that helped families with similarly dysfunctional setups feel oddly at ease that they weren’t alone.

‘George Lopez’ (2002–2007)

Image via ABC

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It was so refreshing to see a Mexican American family depicted on television in a sitcom format that has primarily only shed light on white and Black families. George Lopez, also known as The George Lopez Show, didn’t center on the family’s race but rather just presented the show as another run-of-the-mill sitcom that transcended it. It also didn’t depict the family as neat and tidy: there were layers to the characters. They’re middle-class with a dyslexic son and patriarch George, played by comedian George Lopez, has survived a dysfunctional childhood with an absent father and an alcoholic mother.

There’s humor in dealing with everyday challenges, conversations of class disparity, social awkwardness, and familial strife. George Lopez lasted six seasons and fans believe it was cancelled too soon. Lopez himself has been outspoken about his frustration with the cancellation, especially since the show was replaced with Cavemen, a short-lived sitcom that was met with negative reception compared to George Lopez‘s widespread praise. He did go on to develop Lopez, another sitcom for TV Land, but it only lasted two seasons. George Lopez, however, remains the one to watch.

‘The IT Crowd’ (2006–2013)

Image via Channel 4

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Two decades after The IT Crowd premiered, technology remains at the center of the conversation. In fact, it dominates everything we do more than ever. The creators of this underrated British sitcom were onto something, shifting the spotlight to staff of the IT department in a fictional company and their quirky personalities. Hilariously, you never really know what the company actually does, which is partly to imply how easily transportable a typical IT department can be.

Having developed a cult following since it went off the air after four seasons, The IT Crowd is essential viewing for anyone who works in the field and can relate. But it’s also just generally a hilarious workplace comedy that anyone can enjoy. It’s a love letter to nerd culture, the socially awkward, and the self-professed geeks who are often ignored and pushed aside, yet are so heavily relied on.

Image via BBC

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Ricky Gervais seems to hit it out of the park with everything he does, and when joining forces with Stephen Merchant, it’s comedy gold. In the sitcom Extras, Gervais plays Andy Millman, who takes odd jobs as a background performer (read: extra) in movies and TV shows. He gets help finding jobs from his subpar agent Darren (Merchant), who helps when he can while balancing this work with his job in retail. Eventually, Andy gets a steady job as a B-list sitcom star.

Both actors claim to be playing exaggerated versions of their real selves in the show and parodying their public personas. Extras has tons of talented guest stars as well, from Ben Stiller to Kate Winslet, Samuel L. Jackson, and Patrick Stewart. It’s a show that you’ll binge in one weekend and wonder why you never watched it in the first place. With two seasons and just 13 episodes, you’ll easily power through the entire thing in no time.

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Extras

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Release Date

2005 – 2007-00-00

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Network

HBO, BBC Two

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  Ricky Gervais

  Andy Millman

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  Ashley Jensen

  Maggie Jacobs

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  Shaun Williamson

  Barry / Shaun

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Sabrina Carpenter has revived the nearly forgotten robbery scandal that once rocked several celebrities and some of Hollywood’s most exclusive neighborhoods.

The “Please Please Please” singer paid a nod to the infamous Bling Ring scandal in her music video for “House Tour,” one of the tracks from her latest album, “Man’s Best Friend.”

Carpenter also reflected on her recent appearance at the Met Gala, revealing that duetting with Stevie Nicks “healed many things” in her.

Carpenter turned up the heat and stirred controversy in the official music video for “House Tour,” a track from her new album “Man’s Best Friend.” The 26-year-old pop star bared it all while teaming up with actresses Margaret Qualley and Madelyn Cline.

The video opens with the trio enjoying what appears to be a carefree girls’ night out, but things quickly spiral when they break into a lavish mansion to steal jewelry and other luxury items.

The group unleashes chaos throughout the property, raiding the liquor cabinet, lounging in a bubble bath, making off with valuables, and even stealing a Grammy, all while rocking revealing lingerie looks.

Police eventually arrive in the video, but the trio has already escaped. The clip closes with Carpenter and Qualley seemingly running over a man during their dramatic getaway.

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Sabrina Carpenter Revives The Infamous Bling Ring Scandal

Carpenter’s directorial effort for the song’s visuals references “The Bling Ring,” which was based on a true story popularized by a 2010 Vanity Fair article titled “The Suspects Wore Louboutins.”

The article followed a group of wealthy, fame-obsessed young people who, between 2008 and 2009, burglarized the homes of celebrities including Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, Rachel Bilson, Brian Austin Green, Megan Fox, and Orlando Bloom, making off with millions of dollars’ worth of valuables.

Nick Prugo, Rachel Lee, Alexis Neiers, Diana Tamayo, and Courtney Ames were among the members of the group that became infamously known as the Bling Ring. The burglars reportedly were not motivated by money alone, but by the thrill of stealing luxury items like jewelry, shoes, and designer bags to flaunt on social media.

The Stars Who Lost Millions To The Bling Ring

The group reportedly carried out the burglaries by using the now-defunct website celebrityaddressaerial.com, which at the time provided celebrity addresses. According to El Pais, they would monitor media coverage to make sure the stars were away from home before breaking in.

That strategy helped them gain access to Paris Hilton’s house, where they allegedly used a key that she often left under a doormat. Hilton reportedly did not realize what was happening until the group had stolen items worth around $2 million.

They also targeted Orlando Bloom after a TMZ report revealed he was filming in New York at the time. The group allegedly stole nearly $500,000 worth of Rolex watches, Louis Vuitton handbags, clothing, and artwork from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” star.

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Their final reported victim was Lindsay Lohan, whom Rachel Lee reportedly considered her “ultimate fashion icon,” according to friend Nick Prugo.

How One Bling Ring Member Brought Down The Group

Bling Ring likely could have escaped detection after ending their operation once surveillance footage was released, but Prugo eventually broke down after seeing coverage of their crimes online and turned himself in.

Following his confession, authorities searched the homes of the other members in an effort to recover stolen items. According to reports, investigators found a coat belonging to Lohan and a topless photo of Hilton at Lee’s home.

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At Neiers’s residence, police reportedly discovered a Marc Jacobs handbag belonging to Bilson and a Chanel necklace owned by Lohan.

According to CNN, Tamayo was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to complete 60 days of work for the California Department of Transportation. Ringleaders Prugo and Lee received prison sentences of two and four years, respectively, while Ames was sentenced to three years of probation and two months of community service.

Fans Slam Sabrina Carpenter Over ‘House Tour’ Video

Carpenter’s video sparked intense backlash upon release, with many critics accusing the singer of sexualizing herself and glamorizing theft.

“Says all men are stupid. Sexualizes herself for the men… Is she afraid that her music won’t do well without showing her body?” one critic wrote on X.

“What do you expect? Her real content is body showing, not the music. Music is like something to play in the background,” another user commented.

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“I have tried to defend her, but I can’t see the irony in this; she literally just sells her body,” one harsh critic wrote, while another added, “Not sure if she’s selling music or an OnlyFans… Why are her music videos always like this?”

By Robert Scucci
| Published 16 seconds ago

You know what I like about older psychological thrillers? They don’t rely on an excessive amount of camera tricks to make you question the validity of a character’s reality. In films like 1987’s The Caller, there are no vivid hallucinations, and you’re seeing everything as clear as day. You’re left in the dark about a character’s origins and motives, but that’s exactly what makes it such a fun film.

A woman, simply known as The Girl (Madolyn Smith Osborne), lives alone in a remote cabin. A man, simply known as The Caller (Malcolm McDowell), shows up unannounced, asking to use her phone. The Girl is suspicious of The Caller, but The Caller’s presence and countenance suggest that he has every right to be suspicious of her. It’s such a painfully simple premise, but by the time you get to the third act, you’ll have no idea what’s going on, and in the best kind of way.

A Psychological Thriller That Truly Thrives On Mind Games

When The Caller introduces its only two characters, it lets the viewer know, in no uncertain terms, that they’re about to get epically screwed with. The Girl arrives home after running errands in town and has set the table for two. As far as you can tell, she lives alone. The Caller shows up, explains that his car has a flat tire, and asks if he can use her phone.

Immediately, she’s suspicious. She starts picking apart his story about his car’s make and model. He always has a quick answer, but sometimes those answers contradict what The Girl has actually seen and knows to be true. Other times, she starts talking about her own living situation in ways that make The Caller suspicious that she’s up to no good.

Their stories constantly change. The Girl suggests that she caused The Caller’s car trouble so he’d have no choice but to knock on her door, where she’d invite him in and kill him. The Caller suggests that he’s a police officer who was summoned to her place under the assumption that she murdered her entire family. Both characters start clocking each other for plot holes in their stories. They keep score, and make a game of it.

Each encounter that The Girl has with The Caller gets increasingly unhinged, suggesting they’ve been playing this game of cat and mouse for quite some time, and could quite possibly be trapped in a “choose-your-own-ending” kind of time loop. The evening continues to escalate, and you don’t know who you should be rooting for. The woman being relentlessly stalked by her unwanted guest? Or the hard-working police officer being manipulated by a family-annihilating woman in the middle of a psychotic episode?

More Twists Than Auntie Anne’s!

The mind games played in The Caller are brilliant in their simplicity. It’s a simple premise that slowly heats up until it reaches its boiling point. Both characters are clearly up to something. Their interactions are mostly adversarial, but sometimes surprisingly disarming. One second they’re trying to help each other along in good faith, and the very next moment they’re at each other’s throats, absolutely sure they’re going to get killed the second they let their guard down.

The grounded production makes the mystery all the more enthralling because the only mind games happening are between the characters, not tricks being forced onto the viewer to influence their interpretation either way. They’re saving the real bomb drop for the third-act reveal, which I never would have anticipated in my wildest dreams. I live for these kinds of movies, and what plays out on screen is nowhere near what I was expecting.

I normally pride myself on being able to sniff twist endings out from a mile away, but everything happens so suddenly in The Caller that I never saw it coming. It’s the kind of film you immediately want to watch a second time because you just know they were dropping clues left and right. But since you don’t know what you don’t know, you don’t think to clock them until it’s already too late.

The Caller is simple, brooding, and beyond fun if you’re tired of the same old thriller slop Netflix has been putting out lately. Tropes are subverted, motives are always floating around in muddy waters, and you truly don’t know who you’re rooting for because both characters are so manipulative. To solve the mystery that The Caller offers, you can stream it free on Tubi as of this writing.

By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 24 seconds ago

If someone told you that the sexiest sci-fi dystopia of the decade turned monogamy into a dirty word, considered sexual pleasure to be more important than, you know, the continuation of the human race, and turned public displays of affection into not only socially acceptable, but the law, you’d wonder what strange HBO series hit when you weren’t looking. Now, if that same person said that all of this was found in a Peacock original sci-fi series from 2020, you’d think they were insane. Well, it is.

Brave New World, the adaptation of Aldous Huxley’s 1932 landmark sci-fi novel, includes all of the above. It’s sexy, it looks great, and for as dark as it gets, it only skims the surface of the nearly 100-year old story. 

Perfection Comes At A Price

Brave New World stars Alden Ehrenreich (Han Solo from Solo) as John, and Demi Moore as his mother, Linda, residents of The Savage Land. Kept around as an amusement attraction for the sophisticated residents of New London, The Savage Land includes cheap reenactments of such old-fashioned lifestyle choices as monogamy, family, and privacy. That’s because in the utopian society of New London, there’s no such thing as monogamy, privacy, or even history. Every citizen is ranked, from “A” to “F,” which leads to the surprising result when John arrives in the city and it’s discovered he’s an A-rank citizen. 

John helped save Bernard (Harry Lloyd) and Lenina (Jessica Brown Findlay) during a worker’s revolt in the Savage Land amusement parks. His mother sacrifices herself, taking with her the secret of his parentage: he’s the son of the Director of New London. Bernard, far more of a weasel in this adaptation of the novel, tries to help John adapt to life in New London. The creative, intelligent John balks at integrating into the hedonistic utopia, instead becoming a celebrity thanks to his ability to tell a story. Turns out, living in a perfect utopia that discourages individual expression is bad for artists. 

Brave New World Is A Sci-Fi Masterpiece No One Can Get Right

Aldous Huxley’s novel had the rough edges sanded off, particularly with regards to the Savage Land, which exists in the Peacock series as an amusement park compared to an actual reservation as depicted in the source material. The inclusion of the AI Indra, a way for easy monitoring of the characters that turns New London into the largest Big Brother set imaginable, is also new for the series. It’s a smart inclusion to transform the events of the novel for a visual medium, but it also softens the creepiness of the alleged utopia. 

Thankfully, what remains the same between the two is Helm (Killjoy’s Hannah John-Kamen) and her “feelies” drugs that let the residents feel any type of emotion. Pharmaceuticals have changed drastically from 1932 to today, making that particular part of Huxley’s vision much more relevant now. 

Brave New World was lambasted by critics when it premiered for its slow pace and unlikable characters, both of which are, arguably, found in the original text. The problem is that it takes too long for John to reach New London where the meat of the story takes place. Viewers turned away in droves and NBC pulled the plug on the show after only one season. 

Peacock hasn’t had any success with original sci-fi series since it launched. Brave New World was the streamer’s first high-profile cancelation, and the latest in a line of failed adaptations of the complex novel. At least this time it looks good. 

Katie Holmes and Meryl Streep have very distinct styles, but they recently cosigned the maximalist blouse trend that’s taking over New York City. Holmes wore hers with a skirt while Streep rocked hers with jeans, proving the bright look is equally versatile and trendy. Color is back, and so is personality, clearly.

Maximalist blouses are the ultimate fashion statement, channeling rich mom and CEO vibes at the same time. Like the celeb-approved style, these bright and trendy numbers elevate your aesthetic tenfold. You’ll wear them from now through September, so snag your new wardrobe staples below!

15 Maximalist Blouses to Copy Celeb Style Icons This Spring

1. Our Favorite: Cap sleeves and a romantic floral print make this $20 blouse look way pricier than it is. The ruffle detail adds movement without bulk at the shoulders.

2. Runner-Up: If bold prints feel like too much, this solid-color top channels maximalist style in a quieter package. The sleeves still bring drama.

3. Dreamy and Drapey: This button-up shirt features lantern sleeves that flare out before cinching at the cuff. It’s a design that completely conceals your upper arms with a drapey yet structured appearance.

4. Elevated Tee: Plain tees can wash you out. However, this sunny yellow T-shirt brings warmth back to your face, and turns jeans and sneakers into a full outfit.

5. Could Be Zimmermann: This dreamy, expensive-looking blouse gives you the volume, print and style of Zimmermann that costs 20 times more. Nobody has to know.

Related: Stripes Are In! These Rich Mom Pieces Make You Appear *So Much* Taller

Striped clothing pieces are everywhere in the Hamptons, and for good reason. Not only are these items nautical and luxe, but they’re also incredibly flattering, making you appear longer and leaner without even trying. Rich moms wear stripes nonstop while picking up the kids from school, meeting the girls for brunch and beyond — and […]

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6. Office-Friendly: Meet Streep’s green polka dot moment scaled down into a dainty $13 blouse. Smaller dots make it appropriate for the boardroom.

7. Spring Red: Holmes picked red for spring, and this short-sleeve rouge tee nails the shade. It pairs perfectly with skirts and pants alike.

8. Boutique Find: This hot pink blouse has the floaty drape of chiffon and the color saturation to match. People will think you found it at a Charleston boutique.

9. Boho Babe: Billowy long sleeves, a classic V-neckline and an eye-catching print make this boho-printed blouse an instant ‘yes.’ The neckline elongates your torso while the sleeves add shape.

10. CEO Alert: Boxy work blouses can swallow you whole. Thankfully, this loose polka dot top has subtle smocking that doesn’t sacrifice the breezy fit.

11. Puff-Sleeve Princess: Tuck this puff-sleeve top into high-waist jeans for date night or a patio party. The volume up top balances the curves below. Bonus: The price leaves room for a wine run.

12. Work of Art: Channel artsy rich mom vibes in this printed brushstroke-style blouse that reads like a gallery piece. It belongs in a Fifth Avenue shop.

13. Floral Find: Pair this Hamptons-style floral top with white linen pants for a weekend in Sag Harbor, or wear it on the porch while sipping a cold drink. You’ll stun either way.

14. Quiet Luxury: Bold prints aren’t for everyone. This refined button-front shirt tests the trend without shouting about it.

15. Tastefully Oversized: Roomy tops aren’t always flattering, but this tastefully oversized blouse has the proportions dialed in with just enough tailoring.

Related: Meryl Streep‘s Slip-On Shoes Are Making Us Reconsider Sneakers

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When it comes to spring footwear, we default to sneakers, too. But leave it to Meryl Streep to convince Us to go outside the box. The actress wore a chic, expensive-looking style that puts sporty kicks to shame. Her slip-ons are something between mules, clogs and loafers, combining three sophisticated silhouettes into one epic look. […]