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Critics Blame Review Bombing For Starfleet Academy Failure, While Manipulating Scores Themselves

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Critics Blame Review Bombing For Starfleet Academy Failure, While Manipulating Scores Themselves

By Jennifer Asencio
| Published

The latest Star Trek show was so unpopular that it was not only cancelled, but it has salted the earth for many other Star Trek shows and movies. Starfleet Academy couldn’t place even on Paramount Plus’s top streaming shows, much less compete with anything from other services. Yet the show’s supporters, including featured series actors Gina Yashere and Robert Picardo, have found someone else to blame: the fans.

Yashere, who played the Jem Hadar/Klingon hybrid, said in an Instagram post that “I’ll let you guys come to your own conclusions as to why we didn’t get to continue this wonderful legacy… Stay woke. Wokey woke. Wokest of woke. Wokeylicious. A cacophony of woke.”

Holographic doctor Picardo was more specific on X, “Careful! Can’t remind the ‘real Star Trek fans’ on this platform form [sic] what real Star Trek is and was meant to be. They get angry and abusive…” He then went on to single out Jon Del Arroz of Fandom Pulse, who he has blocked on the social media site; Picardo tagged Del Arroz after blocking him.

Hater Conspiracy Theories

To them and other crew of the show, the problem wasn’t that the show disregarded or ignored established Star Trek lore, sent all the Klingons to their version of Hell, or included gratuitous characters like the aforementioned half-Klingon or another Klingon who doesn’t want to fight and wears a dress (both are Klingons are LGBTQ). According to Yashere, Picardo, and others who were enthusiastic about the show, the real reason Starfleet Academy was cancelled was that disingenuous “chuds” review-bombed the show on critic-aggregate sites and launched a campaign against it. Yashere did not hold back that she directly believes bigotry was more involved than valid criticism.

The show’s failure was blamed on disingenuous fans supposedly poisoning the well against it, rather than on any accountability for the show’s flaws. The word is that the “trolls” who didn’t like the show are so culturally powerful that they were able to dissuade fans from watching the show entirely just by saying “mean” things about its plot, characters, and lore.

According to this logic, all the people who normally would have watched failed to do so because they were convinced by “irrational” haters to believe that it was not worth watching. Picardo, Yashere, and many fan accounts claim the show is excellent and the best Star Trek installment yet, so blame its failure on other, more insidious factors. 

The Reality Of What Viewers Want

Star Trek fans don’t seem to want sloppy writing or transparent “representation”; they want a good story, no matter who is in it. There is even a petition on Change.org to convince Paramount to “Batgirl” the second season by writing it off for tax purposes so it never airs.

Many fans agree that it is better for the show’s legacy to be preserved rather than sullied by a second season that the majority of fans don’t seem to want, as evidenced by viewing metrics. This has been a point of debate since Christopher Cushman’s infamous tweet in which he threatened that cancellation of the franchise would result from the “review bombing” of Starfleet Academy.

Internal Politics At Paramount May Be The Real Impetus For Change

However, some are convinced that changes within the Paramount corporation are also an impetus behind the cancellation. The recent purchase of Paramount by the Ellison family (famously supporters of President Trump) as well as the hiring of Bari Weiss as editor of CBS News, has caused Hollywood pundits to have “concerns” about the future of creativity from the studio and its holdings under “right-wing” ownership.

These expressions of concern have grown louder now that Paramount has acquired Warner Brothers, including HBO and CNN. As a result, Starfleet Academy’s few defenders often blamed owner David Ellison’s influence, direct or indirect, for cancelling the show.

Fan Blaming Is An Old Trick

None of these attacks on fans are new. Other IPs have accused fans of every -ism and -phobia available. This has been used to blame fans for the bad reception of other major franchises (Star Wars), of television properties (Doctor Who and the cancelled Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot), feature films (The Bride), and even video games (Dragon Age: Veilguard, Concord). Why make a quality product when you can just accuse the people who want quality of being evil?

What’s really disingenuous is that while Yashere and Picardo blame review bombs for the failure of Starfleet Academy to attract audiences or retain fans, there really is a show, The Pendragon Cycle, that has actively been suppressed by mainstream reviewers. Starfleet Academy has a Tomatometer score averaging 87%, while The Pendragon Cycle still has no score at all, not even a bad one.

For the King Arthur show, part of the problem is that it’s on a niche streaming site, but another part of the problem is that it has not only been ignored but actively suppressed. The hew and cry over Starfleet Academy’s cancellation is hypocritical when the behavior being criticized is the exact behavior these critics themselves have engaged in. It is, as Yashere reminds us, “a cacophony of woke.”

Whether the second season of Starfleet Academy airs or is shelved remains to be seen, but it’s doubtful that any of the show’s flaws will be meaningfully addressed. It’s easier to blame fans for being bigoted against the weak plots and gratuitous characters than it is to accept that you’ve failed.

By continually accusing detractors of bigotry, the showrunners, actors, and fans of Starfleet Academy avoid accountability by taking a stolen moral high ground and dismissing any concerns. It’s too bad the “correct” people didn’t tune in, or maybe they’d have a leg to stand on.

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King Charles Urged To Help Harry And Meghan Before They ‘Crash And Burn’

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King Charles III and Camilla Queen Consort, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Duchess of Sussex seen at Wellington Arch.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are under renewed scrutiny as debates continue over their future roles and business direction.

Now, a proposed “half-in, half-out” royal arrangement has resurfaced, while the couple continues to struggle as they pursue independent ventures in Hollywood.

Ex-Vanity Fair editor-in-chief, Tina Brown, is now calling on King Charles to step in and assist Prince Harry and Meghan before things go south for the Montecito-based royals.

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King Charles Advised To Act Quickly As Concerns Grow Over Prince Harry And Meghan’s Future

King Charles III and Camilla Queen Consort, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Duchess of Sussex seen at Wellington Arch.
WPA-Pool/ MEGA

A royal commentator has warned that Harry and Meghan could “crash and burn” unless King Charles intervenes with a new arrangement.

Tina Brown, the former editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair, argues that the couple would benefit from a revised role within the monarchy, something similar to the “half-in, half-out” model Harry had previously proposed.

According to Brown, their current financial partnerships, including deals with streaming platforms, may not be as stable as before, making such a shift increasingly important.

She suggested that rather than watching the situation unfold negatively, the royal family should take a more proactive approach.

“The Sussexes’ revenue streams are starting to dry up,” Brown noted in her recent Substack piece. “Before the Sussexes crash and burn, the House of Windsor needs to put aside schadenfreude and grip the problem. Give Harry and Meghan a limited international role.”

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She believes assigning Harry and Meghan limited international responsibilities could offer a practical solution.

Her comments come amid speculation that major media partners may be reconsidering their focus, potentially turning attention toward other senior royals like Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The Sussexes Face Questions Over Future Roles As Royals’

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the Project Healthy Minds World Mental Health Day Gala
Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM / MEGA

There have also been rumors that Meghan could return to acting, given her past success in series like “Suits” and “Fringe.”

However, according to The Mirror, some observers are suggesting that she and Harry might instead re-engage with royal-style duties, particularly in a charitable or global capacity.

The couple stepped back from official royal responsibilities in 2020 to build a life in California, but ongoing controversies surrounding the royal family have kept discussions about reform alive.

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One idea that continues to surface is whether a flexible role for Harry and Meghan could work.

Queen Elizabeth with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry the Royal Family watch the RAF100 flypast
James Whatling / MEGA

Royal correspondent Jennie Bond previously questioned why a compromise wasn’t possible, asking, “Could it not have worked, half in, half out? He is the spare; he isn’t going to be King, so why couldn’t they have worked out some sort of compromise?”

Bond noted that Harry is a “natural with the crowds: funny, informal, charming,” and the positive reception he often receives during appearances.

Still, a key concern remains: balancing any royal duties with independent commercial ventures.

Despite stepping away from formal roles, Harry and Meghan are expected to travel to Australia soon, where they will take part in philanthropic activities similar to those typically carried out by working members of the royal family.

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Meghan Markle Is Still Laser-Focused On Growing Her Business

Meghan Markle at Invictus Games 2023, day 6, Dusseldorf, Germany - 15 Sept 2023
MEGA

Meanwhile, outlets like The Telegraph and Daily Mail revealed that Meghan has filed for 12 trademarks in Australia for her lifestyle brand, As Ever, in September 2024, with approvals granted in June 2025.

A spokesperson clarified that these filings are standard practice, noting that Australia is just one of several regions where the brand has been registered.

Records show that As Ever spans a wide range of categories, including skincare, pet products, candles, gardening tools, and digital media such as films, TV content, podcasts, and educational programs.

The brand also extends into jewelry, stationery, furniture, yoga equipment, and hospitality services involving food, drink, and short-term stays.

Additional filings show expansion into outdoor décor, craft materials, and food items, particularly spreads like jams, which are a signature part of Meghan’s lifestyle line.

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The brand also includes sauces, non-alcoholic cocktail mixers, and alcoholic drinks (excluding beer), as well as services tied to online broadcasting, content creation, and customizable digital tools for printable stationery.

As Ever To Grow Independently After Parting Ways With Netflix

Meghan Markle attend the Commonwealth Service with the Royal family
James Whatling / MEGA

Earlier this month, it was reported that As Ever and Netflix were going their separate ways, with representatives for both sides confirming that the brand will continue operating independently.

A spokesperson for As Ever expressed appreciation for the collaboration, noting that the partnership with Netflix supported the brand through its launch and first year.

They noted that the company has experienced meaningful and rapid growth, and As Ever is now ready to stand on its own, with plans for further expansion in the coming months.

Someone close to the project described this period as a major turning point, explaining that “Meghan is building with her team and enjoying the creative fulfillment that comes with creating a brand that’s so close to the life she authentically lives.”

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They added: “This year is really about establishing the brand and scaling it.”

A Netflix Source Addressed Claims About A Split From Meghan’s Brand

Prince Harry And Meghan Markle On Stage At One805 Live 2025
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

In a statement to People Magazine, a Netflix representative said the transition had always been part of the plan.

They emphasized that Meghan’s vision, centered on bringing beauty and simplicity to everyday life, was the driving force behind the creation of As Ever, and that Netflix was pleased to have helped bring it to market.

The spokesperson added that Meghan will now take the brand into its next phase independently, while Netflix looks forward to seeing how it continues to grow and resonate with audiences worldwide.

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Kristin Cavallari Avoids Wardrobe Mishap at Laguna Beach Event

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Laguna Beach alum Kristin Cavallari nearly had a wardrobe malfunction but luckily, her ex Stephen Colletti was around to help.

Cavallari, 39, rocked a nearly identical dress to the one she wore in the reality show’s first episode during the premiere event for The Reunion: Laguna Beach. Cavallari paid homage to her past look at the Thursday, March 26, gathering by rocking a white mini dress. Her frock featured a strapless neckline, a fitted bodice and a tight skirt equipped with a cowl waist.

A now-viral clip shared by StyleCaster posted on Friday, March 27, showed the reality star trying to sit down in her dress, but struggling because it was too short. That’s when Colletti, 40, held up a pillow to cover her backside. Lauren Conrad also used her dress to cover up Cavallari while she readjusted herself.

Fans shared their reactions in the comments section. “They don’t make guys like them anymore,” one wrote, while a second added, “Stephen with the modesty pillow!!” A third gushed, “I love this.”

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Kristin Cavallari Teases Her Outfit Ahead of Laguna Beach Reunion GettyImages 2221527012


Related: Kristin Cavallari Teases ‘Laguna Beach’ Reunion Outfit Ahead of Special

Kristin Cavallari is making waves — and we’re not just talking about the oceanfront drama of Laguna Beach. The reality TV star, 38, dropped a sneak peek of her Laguna Beach reunion look and it’s giving still the queen bee energy. In a mirror selfie shared via Instagram Stories on Tuesday, October 7, Cavallari posed […]

Cavallari accessorized with a black choker to get more into the Y2K spirit. For glam, she donned a full beat including dewy skin, brown eyelash, long lashes and pink lips. Her platinum blonde hair was parted down the middle and styled in loose curls.

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She opened up about her outfit choice via Instagram before hitting the red carpet. “Tonight I was like, ‘I have to wear a white dress, and it has to be similar,’” she explained while holding the number out. “So, it’s like an elevated dress from the original.”

In the show’s first episode, Cavallari attended a black-and-white party in a nearly identical look, arriving in a strapless white dress with a fitted top. At the time, she parted her hair to the side and wore her mane down and straightened.

Kristin Cavallari Rewears Same Dress She Wore on 1st Episode of Laguna Beach
MTV; Todd Williamson/JanuaryImages

Following the premiere, Cavallari shared a photo of her look via Instagram. “Someone said Laguna Beach is back….and that means the black choker is too @uncommonjames,” she captioned the post.

Fans shared their thoughts on her look via X on Thursday. “One more [method] of dressing this year. The archive makes its presence felt once again,” one wrote, while a second added, “The iconic white dress! Can’t wait to see the reunion.” A third praised, “She’s fantastic.”

Cavallari starred on seasons 1 and 2 of Laguna Beach, which followed her high school life and friendships.

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HBO’s Best 7-Part Crime Thriller Just Made a Stellar Addition to Its Next Season

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HBO's Best 7-Part Crime Thriller Just Made a Stellar Addition to Its Next Season

Task likely would have gone down in history as one of HBO’s best miniseries, but it was surprisingly picked up for a second season that will see Mark Ruffalo reprise his role as FBI Agent Tom Brandis. Although Season 1 ends with Brandis only beginning his path of healing, it also concludes with the climactic death of Robbie Prendergrast (Tom Pelphrey), a criminal who was dealing with his own personal family issues. Task was always going to face high expectations because of the dichotomy between Robbie and Brandis, which evolves beyond a simple cat-and-mouse game between two men on opposite sides of the law. However, the recent announcement that two-time Academy Award winner Mahershala Ali would be joining the second season suggests that showrunner Brad Ingelsby has another masterpiece on his hands.

While details about where Task Season 2 will go are minimal, Ali is set to play new character Eddie Barnes, a respected DEA agent who leads his own team. Since the first season featured a face-off between Brandis’ task force and Robbie’s crew, it would make sense to add another character who leads their own unit. That an actor of Ali’s quality would sign up for a continuing series indicates that Ingelsby has something very special in mind for the future of Task. While Brandis’ superior, Kathleen McGinty (Martha Plimpton), and the traitorous detective Anthony Grasso (Fabien Frankel) may very well be returning, the inclusion of a potential new nemesis for Ruffalo’s character will take Task in a different direction.

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Mahershala Ali Needs a Role Like HBO’s ‘Task’

Ali is a brilliant actor who has unfortunately not been onscreen as often as his talents deserve due to the unusual development hell surrounding the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s version of Blade; after several directors departed the project and the script was reworked, Ali’s superhero project appears to be dead. Ali isn’t well-served by disappointing blockbuster fare like Jurassic World Rebirth, but he has already proven himself to be well-suited for an HBO series. True Detective was an interesting case in which Ali revamped the anthology show and built back its credibility, which had been eroded after the second season failed to match expectations. Inserting him into a show like Task, which already has an established ensemble of great actors, means that he will have even more space to develop a compelling character.


Mark Ruffalo’s HBO Crime Drama Just Broke a Major Television Rule With Its Latest Episode

We never thought these two would cross paths so soon.

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Ali’s character is a logical addition because the season finale of Task leaves several unanswered questions regarding the different criminal organizations involved in the stashhouse that Robbie had stolen from. Even if the money is safely in the hands of his family, the Dark Hearts are still operating, which may explain why the DEA could be involved in the situation. Season 1 revealed that Tom is an inherently skeptical character who is generally unwilling to share responsibility with others, as he was initially dubious about commanding his own task unit; his confidence has likely been shaken further after Grasso’s betrayal. The conflict between the DEA and FBI, who may have different goals when it comes to the criminal situation in Pennsylvania, would seemingly be the complication that Task needs in order to develop into a more expansive series moving forward. Since the first season was so eloquent in fleshing out the backstories for both Robbie and Brandis, there’s an opportunity for Ali to offer an equally compelling story for Eddie that would explain his relevance to the story.

HBO’s ‘Task’ Can Sustain Its Quality Through Expanding Its Cast

The presence of a character like Ali’s Eddie would indicate that Task Season 2 is picking up on an interesting thread from Season 1 regarding the unreliable nature of law enforcement. Beyond Grasso’s role as an informant for the Dark Hearts, it’s hinted that the other members of the FBI can’t be trusted, which is why Tom needs to lock down his own unit. The DEA may have completely different motivations that have less to do with bringing the criminals to justice and more with the seizure of drugs. At the same time, the detail that Eddie is a “well-respected” member of the community would imply he is perceived very differently from Tom, who has kept his private life a secret after dealing with a personal tragedy. Tom’s reputation might be under fire even more in the next season, given that he had allowed Maeve (Emilia Jones) to leave the state without facing any further investigations.

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The addition of a robust supporting cast is essential to Task because the show created a thoughtful balance of established names and rising stars. While Ruffalo was obviously a big draw in Season 1, the series also helped to highlight newer talents like Sam Keeley and Alison Oliver. Ali is the type of universally respected actor who can sustain viewer interest in Task, giving it more opportunities to bring in emerging stars with the potential of being breakouts. It also proves that Task‘s renewal was not an impromptu decision based on the positive reaction to Season 1, but part of a plan that Ingelsby had from the beginning; if the writing for Season 2 is strong enough that one of the greatest living actors wants to be involved, then there is even more reason to believe in the future of Task.

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Hottest Rising Stars in Media

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Taylor Swift’s Most Memorable Skirt Moments

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10 Heaviest War Shows, Ranked

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Two soldiers standing together in The Liberator

A war show is not merely about explosions or strategy; it is about how fear is lodged in the bones of a soldier, the pauses between the commands, and the decisions that must be made when all things are uncertain. The goal isn’t to romanticize war, but instead, to bring you to the trenches, submarines, and the front lines, where you can experience what it is like to be living under pressure at all times.

These ten shows below do that, follow soldiers, commanders, and even observers as they try to find their way through the confusion, make impractical choices, and face loss in its purest essence. Whether it is the untold strain of battle on the front line or the inherent burden of moral quandary in occupied cities, every show depicts the human aspect of war. Let’s have a look at how these shows zero in on that pure depiction of war.

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10

‘The Liberator’ (2020)

Two soldiers standing together in The Liberator Image via Netflix

War stories often move quickly from one battle to the next, yet The Liberator slows things down to focus on the men who carry those battles with them. The series follows a unit that spends years moving through some of the most difficult campaigns of World War II. From the invasion of Italy to the final push into Germany, the show keeps returning to the same group of soldiers as they face exhaustion, loss, and the pressure of constant combat.

At the center is Felix Sparks (Bradley James), an officer leading a diverse infantry unit made up of soldiers who are often overlooked or underestimated. As the campaign continues, the men face harsh terrain, limited supplies, and repeated encounters with heavy resistance. Each battle leaves visible and emotional damage, and the sense of fatigue begins to shape how they respond to orders and to each other.

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9

‘Catch-22’ (2019)

Christopher Abbott in Catch-22
Christopher Abbott in Catch-22
Image via Hulu 

War is sometimes portrayed through clear objectives and heroic victories, but Catch-22 approaches it from a more unsettling angle. The series blends dark humor with the harsh reality of military life and shows how systems can trap soldiers in situations that make little sense. The tone may appear lighter at times, though the underlying frustration and fear remain constant.

The story follows John Yossarian (Christopher Abbott), a U.S. Air Force bombardier stationed in Italy during World War II. His main goal is simple. He wants to survive and go home. However, the rules of the system make that nearly impossible. Officers continue raising the number of required missions, while a bureaucratic rule known as “Catch-22” prevents anyone from being grounded for insanity if they request it. As Yossarian flies more missions, the risk increases with each flight. Around him, fellow soldiers struggle with the same uncertainty, and the absurdity of the situation slowly turns into something far more serious and difficult to escape.

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8

‘Das Boot’ (2018– )

Das Boot Image via Sky One

War at sea carries a different kind of pressure. There is no open ground, no clear escape, and very little room to step away from the situation. Das Boot builds its tension inside a German U-boat during World War II, where every decision affects the entire crew. The series keeps its focus tight, showing how long stretches of waiting can suddenly turn into moments of extreme danger.

The story follows the submarine crew as they move through the Atlantic under constant threat from Allied forces. Captain Klaus Hoffmann (Rick Okon) must guide his men through patrols that often feel unpredictable and isolating. Inside the vessel, space is limited, and the strain begins to show in small interactions between crew members. At the same time, the series shifts to land, where Simone Strasser (Vicky Krieps) becomes involved in resistance activity in occupied France. As both storylines develop, the show connects personal choices with the larger conflict and reveals how war reaches far beyond the battlefield.

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7

‘Our World War’ (2014)

Image from the BBC miniseries 'Our World War'
Image from the BBC miniseries ‘Our World War’
Image via BBC

Our World War takes a more immediate approach to war. The show presents its events with a sense of urgency and places viewers directly alongside soldiers during the First World War. The focus remains on individual experiences rather than large-scale strategy, which makes each episode feel grounded and personal.

The story draws from real accounts of soldiers who served on the front lines. It follows young men as they leave civilian life and enter a conflict they do not fully understand. As they move through training, trench warfare, and repeated combat situations, the reality of the war begins to replace any early expectations they may have had. Conditions in the trenches, constant artillery fire, and the fear of sudden attack shape their daily routine. Over time, the series shows how quickly innocence fades and how survival becomes the only clear objective.

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6

‘Five Came Back’ (2017)

A group of soldiers in Five Came Back Image via Netflix

War is often remembered through battles, yet Five Came Back looks at how it was recorded and presented to the public. The series focuses on a group of Hollywood filmmakers who left their careers behind to document World War II. Their work placed them close to real combat, where the line between storytelling and reality became increasingly difficult to manage.

The series follows directors such as John Ford (Himself), William Wyler (Himself), and Frank Capra (Himself) as they join the war effort to create films for the U.S. government. They travel with troops, capture footage from active combat zones, and attempt to shape material that can inform and influence audiences back home. As the war moves forward, the emotional weight of what they witness begins to affect both their work and their lives. Through archival footage and reflection, the series shows how documenting war can become its own form of burden.

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5

‘Generation War’ (2013)

A soldier and two women in Generation War Image via ZDF

Generation War takes a broader and more uncomfortable approach to conflict. The series follows a group of young German friends whose lives change completely as World War II unfolds. At the beginning, they share optimism and a belief that the war will end quickly. That confidence fades as reality sets in.

The story centers on Wilhelm Winter (Volker Bruch), his brother Friedhelm (Tom Schilling), nurse Charlotte (Miriam Stein), singer Greta (Katharina Schüttler), and Viktor (Ludwig Trepte), who faces persecution because of his Jewish background. As the war continues, each character moves through different parts of the conflict, including the Eastern Front, military hospitals, and occupied cities. Their paths separate and intersect again under changing circumstances. Over time, the series shows how their early beliefs break down under pressure, and how survival often forces them into decisions they never expected to make.

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4

‘The Pacific’ (2010)

Ashton Holmes and Josh Helman sit among other soldiers, listening to instructions, in The Pacific.  
Ashton Holmes and Josh Helman in The Pacific.
Image via HBO

War in the Pacific theater carries a different weight, and The Pacific makes that clear from the beginning. The environment itself feels hostile, with dense jungles, relentless heat, and long stretches of uncertainty between battles. The series does not rush through these conditions. Instead, it stays with the soldiers as they adjust to a setting where danger can appear without warning.

The story follows several Marines as they move through campaigns such as Guadalcanal and Peleliu. Robert Leckie (James Badge Dale) records his experiences, trying to make sense of the chaos around him. Eugene “Sledge” Sledge (Joseph Mazzello) enters the war with a sense of purpose, though repeated combat begins to wear that down. John Basilone (Jon Seda) gains recognition for his actions, yet the pressure that follows becomes its own burden. As the fighting continues, the series shows how exhaustion, fear, and isolation slowly change the men, leaving marks that do not disappear once the battles end.

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3

‘Band of Brothers’ (2001)

Lipton yelling in World War II uniform in Band of Brothers.
Lipton yelling in World War II uniform in Band of Brothers.
Image via HBO

Band of Brothers takes a wide view of World War II while keeping its focus on a single company of soldiers. The series begins during training, where the men of Easy Company form bonds that will carry them through the war. That early sense of unity becomes important as they move into increasingly dangerous situations across Europe.

The story follows the company from the Normandy landings through the Battle of the Bulge and into Germany. Richard Winters (Damian Lewis) steps into leadership roles while guiding his men through missions that test both skill and judgment. Lewis Nixon (Ron Livingston) remains close to him, offering support while dealing with the emotional strain of the campaign. As the company advances, the series shows how each battle affects the group as a whole. Losses accumulate, responsibilities grow heavier, and the soldiers begin to understand that survival often depends on the strength of the relationships they built before the fighting began.

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2

‘Shogun’ (2024)

Toranaga looking serious standing by the water in Shogun.
Toranaga looking serious standing by the water in Shogun.
Image via FX Networks

The first time John Blackthorne (Toby Stephens) sets foot on Japanese soil, it’s clear he has entered a world that operates under rules he does not understand. The series gradually reveals how culture, politics, and military power intersect in ways that shape every choice the characters make. Nothing is simple, and survival depends on more than skill with a sword or knowledge of strategy.

Blackthorne, a ship navigator whose vessel is wrecked off the coast, must navigate language, etiquette, and shifting loyalties to stay alive. Lord Toranaga (Shōta Sometani) sees potential in him but also tests his loyalty at every turn. As the story moves from coastal villages to court intrigue, Blackthorne becomes deeply involved in a power struggle that affects both Japanese leaders and foreign outsiders. Each decision carries weight, showing how war in this context is as much about patience, understanding, and alliances as it is about combat.

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1

‘Generation Kill’ (2008)

Jon Huertas, Alexander Skarsgård, and Lee Tergesen as soldiers with weapons in a town in Generation Kill.
Jon Huertas, Alexander Skarsgård, and Lee Tergesen as soldiers with weapons in a town in Generation Kill.
Image via HBO

The chaos of a military invasion is rarely portrayed with this level of immediacy. Generation Kill drops the viewer directly into the experience of young Marines confronting a conflict that is confusing, dangerous, and unpredictable. From the first scenes, it becomes clear that the series is less about heroics and more about how soldiers manage responsibility under pressure.

Embedded reporter Evan Wright (Harris Dickinson) chronicles the First Recon Battalion as they move into Iraq, showing both the small moments of camaraderie and the intense pressures of combat. Figures like Sergeant Brad Colbert (Alexander Skarsgård) and Sergeant Antonio Espera (James Ransone) must make split-second decisions that carry serious consequences. By the end, the audience sees how survival often depends on teamwork, judgment, and the ability to adapt to a rapidly changing battlefield.


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Generation Kill
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Release Date

2008 – 2008

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Network

HBO

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Directors

Simon Cellan Jones

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It’s a Damn Shame the Directors of ‘Project Hail Mary’ Never Got To Make This Ridiculous Crossover Movie

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Schmidt and Jenko aiming their guns in 21 Jump Street.

The filmmaking team of Phil Lord and Chris Miller has become among the best in Hollywood. Currently, Project Hail Mary is killing it with critics and at the box office in what’s certain to be one of the best movies of 2026. It should be no surprise. Lord and Miller have had one hit after another for nearly two decades. They’re the team behind Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, The Lego Movie, and in one of the best and most surprising comedies of the century, 21 Jump Street, along with its sequel, 22 Jump Street. Fans really wanted a third movie, and although Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill never returned to their roles, they almost did in the wildest of ways: a crossover with Men in Black.

‘Men in Black’ and ’21 Jump Street’ Were Huge Hits

In the mid-90s, Will Smith was arguably the most popular actor on the planet. After his hit NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, combined with a successful musical career on top of it, Smith took Hollywood by storm. Three years in a row he had films that dominated at the box office. In 1995, there was Bad Boys, followed by an even bigger Independence Day in 1996, and Men in Black in 1997. Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, Smith played James Edwards in Men in Black, a carefree, wisecracking New York City cop who becomes part of a secret organization that tracks down the aliens that live among us. With his ultra-serious, grumpy mentor, Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones), by his side, Men in Black was a fresh and hilarious action comedy done so well that it led to a franchise.

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Fifteen years later, another successful comedy, 21 Jump Street, was a box office hit, although no one expected it. Based on the Fox TV series starring Johnny Depp, another movie based on a show could have failed badly. Instead, thanks to Michael Bacall‘s script, Lord and Miller’s directing talent, and the chemistry shown in laugh-until-you-cry performances from Tatum and Hill, 21 Jump Street surprised everyone and led to an equally funny follow-up, 22 Jump Street. Outside of being entertaining movies, Men in Black and 21 Jump Street seemed to have nothing in common, yet a crossover came so close to happening.

What Would a ‘Men in Black’ and ’21 Jump Street’ Crossover Been About?

Schmidt and Jenko aiming their guns in 21 Jump Street.
Schmidt and Jenko aiming their guns in 21 Jump Street.
Image via MGM

News of a crossover between the two franchises leaked due to a hack of Sony Pictures in 2014. The film, which had the early title of MIB 23, was not going to be directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller. They would have served as producers, with James Bobin, the director of 2011’s The Muppets, being looked at someone who could potentially bring the idea to life. If this seems like an odd choice, go back and watch the film. He and Jason Segel brought Jim Henson’s beloved characters back and made them fun all over again.

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“My name is Jeff.”

In a 2022 appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Joshua Horowitz, Lord and Miller talked about what could have been. Miller recalled that the “crossover script that was very funny and very crazy that we really adored,” before going into greater detail about the plot. “It was basically the idea was that Jonah and Channing… a thing happened while they were doing their medical school adventure that got them embroiled into the world of Men in Black, and they ended up teaming up to stop an alien takeover type of thing.”

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Lord brought up an additional detail about a hilarious idea from the script. “Like the black suits were like martial arts belts that you had to work your way up to black and that [Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum] were issued powder blue Men in Black suits.” Just that visual alone is enough to sell a movie.

Channing Tatum Revealed Why the Movie Will Never Happen

Unfortunately, the stars of the Men in Black trilogy, Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, weren’t set to be part of the crossover with 21 Jump Street, at least not in leading roles. Perhaps a likely scenario would have seen Agents J and K handing off their duties to Morton (Hill) and Greg (Tatum) or coming in to save the day at the end. Either way, there certainly would have been a lot of comedic potential in having one weird cop and one really dense one tracking down aliens.

MIB 23 has yet to happen, and unfortunately, it doesn’t appear that it ever will. In a 2025 interview with Variety, Channing Tatum explained why, telling the outlet

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“I don’t think it’ll ever happen. The problem is the overhead. It would cost as much as the actual budget of the film — if not more — because of all the producers involved. It’s just too top-heavy. It falls over every time.”

With all of the talent involved, if anyone could have made MIB 23, it would have been them. Still, it’s probably for the best that it never came to be. The Men in Black franchise was already starting to sputter at the end of the third movie. Meanwhile, the less that is said about 2019’s Men in Black: International, the better. Without Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, the concept doesn’t work. If a third 21 Jump Street movie is going to get made, how about a crossover with another alien movie from Phil Lord and Chris Miller? Project Jump Street anyone?

21 Jump Street is available to stream on Paramount+ in the U.S.


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Release Date

March 16, 2012

Runtime

109 minutes

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Director

Christopher Miller, Phil Lord

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Joseph Duggar being held in solitary confinement: 'I'm not sleeping great,' he tells wife Kendra in jailhouse call

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The 31-year-old former reality star is facing child molestation charges related to an alleged 2020 incident in Florida.

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Teacher Charged With Sexual Assault Has ‘Multiple Victims’

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A Wisconsin high school teacher arrested on child sexual assault charges is accused of having “multiple victims,” according to law enforcement.

Nadia M. Horn was arrested after Eau Claire Area School District employees told police on Wednesday, March 25, that there was “a potential inappropriate relationship between a staff member and a student,” the Eau Claire Police Department said in a news release issued that same day.

A resource officer at North High School started to investigate and gathered information of alleged criminal activity involving Horn, 22, who teaches at the high school, according to police.

Horn was a part of the school’s special education staff, WQOW reported.

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She is now suspected of preying on multiple minors, according to police.

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“Through the course of the investigation, multiple victims have been identified,” police said.

It was not immediately clear whether Horn had retained an attorney who could comment on her behalf as of Friday, March 27.

Horn is facing chargings of sexual assault of a child by a school staff person and second-degree sexual assault of a child, according to police.

“The Eau Claire Police Department is committed to ensuring that the victims receive support and services,” police said.

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Additional information on the sexual assault allegations were not provided by law enforcement.

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“On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, we learned of alleged inappropriate conduct by a staff member,” Superintendent Mike Johnson said in a statement obtained by WQOW that was sent to families of students attending North High School. “The North High School and District Administration contacted law enforcement immediately upon learning of this allegation. The staff member has been suspended without pay, pending legal resolution.”

“Learning about alleged inappropriate conduct by a staff member is deeply troubling for all of us,” the superintendent also wrote in the statement. “We kindly request that the school community respect the privacy of our students and their families and refrain from spreading rumors or speculation. Our Student Services staff are available to help any child or staff who may be experiencing difficulties with this news.”

Following her arrest, Horn was booked in the Eau Claire County Jail, police said.

The Eau Claire Police Department is asking anyone with information relevant to the ongoing investigation into Horn to call the department’s non-emergency line at (715) 839-4972.

The city of Eau Claire is about a 90-mile drive east from Minneapolis, Minnesota.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

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The Drama’s Kristoffer Borgli Justified Dating Teen in Essay

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The Drama director Kristoffer Borgli is receiving backlash after an essay he wrote in 2012 justifying his relationship with a teenager has resurfaced on Reddit.

In a piece for Norwegian magazine Dagens Naeringsliv written in 2012, Borgli, 40, described his “exotic summer” dating a 16-year-old girl, which is the age of consent in Norway, when he was 10 years her senior, calling it a “May-December” relationship. (The term “May-December” refers to a romantic age difference that society disapproves of.)

“I met a girl ten years younger than me whom I liked very much — a girl who wasn’t old enough to vote — and I had to find something that could recalibrate my moral compass,” Borgli, who was 27 dated the teen, wrote in the essay, translated to English by The Hollywood Reporter on Thursday, March 26. “The few friends I confided in about my situation responded that it was not ‘within bounds.’ That confirmed that it was precisely a May-December romance.”

The director, whose latest film The Drama is set to hit theaters in April, recalled the evolution of his romance with the teen girl, including their mostly shut-in lifestyle.

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“Beside me lay a blonde girl, a high school student enjoying the sporadic holidays in May,” Borgli remembered of their time in his apartment. “I chose to see her that way, to define her by her age, and I chose never to see her again.”

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He confessed, “But you can’t choose what the heart wants.”

Borgli explained that in order to sort out his “emotional dilemma” he turned to Lost in Translation, which depicted a May-December romance with Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson who were 53 and 18, respectively, while filming.

The filmmaker pointed to Woody Allen’s Manhattan as the biggest influence on whether he would continue to see this girl. He noted the 1979 film featured a 42-year-old man dating a 17-year-old girl, presented in a “positive way” that caused “no controversy.”

“Why shouldn’t my relationship — with a considerably smaller age difference — in 2012 be ‘within bounds’?” Borgli mused, revealing, “I chose to listen to Woody over my friends.”

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Borgli shared that he was “fascinated” by the girl’s life, calling her “quite equal” to him as she was into piano, went to gallery openings and felt grown up.

“Suddenly we were together all the time — long days in my apartment, eggs and bacon with Woody Allen films for breakfast (she was also a fan), long walks with her parents’ dog, and late midweek evenings at restaurants and bars (where they didn’t check ID),” he confessed.

Borgli added that when the girl’s parents were away they drank their wine and read their books.

The Drama Director Kristoffer Borgli Justified Dating Teen in Resurfaced Essay Detailed Exotic Summer Movie Premiere

Robert Pattinson, Kristoffer Borgli, Zendaya at ‘The Drama’ premiere in Los Angeles.
Lisa O’Connor/AFP

“That summer, I didn’t travel — for the first time as long as I can remember — but the time we spent together that summer in her parents’ apartment was nonetheless the best and most exotic summer I’ve ever had,” he wrote, but once her parents came home “unexpectedly early from vacation” and he had to exit the first floor window the romance came to a halt.

Borgli concluded, “The summer ended, and our weeklong weekends became ordinary weekdays. She was May; I was December.”

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Us Weekly has reached out to Borgli and A24, the production company behind The Drama, for comment.

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After THR translated the essay, it made its rounds on Reddit — and users were quick to slam the director for his past actions.

“Ooooof that’s disappointing. Had no idea about this,” one fan wrote on the forum.

“What a f***ing creep,” another fan replied. “So, instead of accepting that he’s a creep who should not act on his creepiness, he decided everyone else was wrong and fellow creeps’ 1970s fantasies should guide his life?”

A third user confessed they didn’t want to support Borgli’s new film ahead of its Friday, April 3, release.

“Well … guess I won’t be watching The Drama,” the person wrote on Reddit. “I’m usually pretty good at separating art and artist usually but preying on vastly underage girls is where I draw a line 🙅.”

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