Entertainment
How A Big-Budget Sequel Ruined Two Genres At Once, Nearly Destroying The Best Sci-Fi Franchise
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published

There’s something especially depressing about awful sequels to franchises that used to be great. The best example of this is, of course, Jurassic Park. Steven Spielberg turned that first film into a generational classic, one that energized children all over the world and ushered in the CGI age, all while making dinosaurs cool again. That movie got some comparatively lackluster sequels before the franchise roared back to life many years later with 2015’s Jurassic World.
Relatively speaking, Jurassic World was a decent franchise reboot. It brought us entertaining characters, serious spectacle, and more crazy action scenes than you can shake a fossil at. Unfortunately, it took the revived franchise no time at all to go off the rails because Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) was a horrific flop, one which tried to be both an action-adventure movie and (weirdly enough) a horror movie. If you’re ready to see the movie that successfully ruined two completely different genres, it’s easier than ever to watch. All you have to do is stream Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom on Netflix.
Somehow, The Dinosaurs Returned

The premise of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is that years after the Jurassic World disaster, the dinosaurs on that island are in danger of going extinct yet again, thanks to an upcoming volcanic explosion. The government decides to let them die, after which Owen Grady and Claire Dearing (our two will they, won’t they protagonists from the first movie) get talked into helping relocate some of the dinosaurs, saving them from certain death. Unfortunately, this lands them squarely in the middle of an increasingly bizarre plot involving clones, haunted houses, and an underground auction for weaponized dinosaurs.
The cast of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom includes plenty of familiar faces, including Chris Pratt (best known for Guardians of the Galaxy) and Bryce Dallas Howard (best known for Jurassic World: Dominion). We also get the brief return of the popular Jeff Goldblum and his fellow Jurassic Park alumnus BD Wong. The film also features performances from character actor legends James Cromwell (best known for LA Confidential) and Toby Jones (best known for Captain America: The First Avenger), both of whom are giving far better performances than this stinker of a script deserves.
Profit, Uh, Finds A Way

Even though it was hated by both audiences and critics (more on this soon), Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom made fat stacks of prehistoric cash at the box office. Against a budget as high as $465 million, this disappointing sequel earned $1.310 billion. Making as much as Marvel movies did at their height guaranteed that Fallen Kingdom would get a sequel, and Jurassic World: Dominion came out in 2022. That movie’s chief claim to fame was that it reunited popular characters like Alan Grant, Ellie Satler, and Ian Malcolm. But the writing did not, uh, find a way, and that film ended up being even more of a critical disappointment than Fallen Kingdom.
Part of the magic of the first Jurassic Park film is that it was beloved by audiences and critics alike, all of whom appreciated this slice of genuine movie magic. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is the opposite, though, in that it’s equally hated: it has a 47 percent critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 48 percent audience rating. Fans and reviewers alike dunked on the movie for its sloppy characterization and ramshackle writing. The movie was ultimately a shell of the franchise. As a thrill ride without any thrills, Fallen Kingdom will have you wanting to bail long before the credits roll.
Everything Falls Apart

This is one of those cases where I firmly stand with the critical consensus. While it was far from a masterpiece, the first Jurassic World did a good job bringing the franchise back to life. In the vein of The Force Awakens, it mostly functioned as a slick remake of Jurassic Park that added new characters but didn’t tweak the formula too much. That was arguably the biggest problem with Jurassic World: that it didn’t take enough big, creative swings. By contrast, Fallen Kingdom swings for the fences, but it strikes out each and every time by failing to follow through on any of its half-baked ideas.
For example, the first part of the movie is a lame retread plot that involves going back to the island. On paper, an island full of dinosaurs that’s about to explode would make for a fairly exciting film. But nothing really interesting happens here, which is that much more disappointing because the film takes its sweet time even getting our characters back to this iconic location. Once they are there, all they do in between moving the sluggish plot along is watch dinosaurs die. Thanks, Fallen Kingdom, for giving action-adventure fans what they really want: an excuse to cry over phoned-in CGI creatures.
A Plot That Should Have Gone Extinct

After this, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom inexplicably transforms itself into a haunted house movie with dinosaurs in the basement being auctioned off to the highest bidder. You have to seriously suspend your disbelief that nobody in the mansion upstairs can hear the small army of dinosaurs being sold on the dark web. But the part that will turn you into the Joker is the most coveted dino, one that will attack whatever target you paint with your gun-mounted laser sight. This begs the question: if I’m close enough to target my enemy with the laser, wouldn’t it be cheaper and easier on every level to just shoot the guy instead of bringing a 20-ton dinosaur with me and having him do it?
Adding insult to injury, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom has a cool, unexpected ending that the next film never really follows up on. In terms of acting, writing, and even effects, this was already the worst film in the entire trilogy. By having the third movie undo everything neat about the second, the studio reveals this sequel to be a hot mess of superfluous storytelling. The Star Wars metaphor is now complete: if Jurassic World is this franchise’s The Force Awakens, then Fallen Kingdom is most definitely The Last Jedi.


Are you in the mood for a film so bad that it will make you root for a new ice age? Are you looking to torment your friends, or maybe you just want to fry your own brain? Either way, you don’t even have to move from the couch. All you have to do is stream Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom on Netflix to discover a cinematic disaster 65 million years in the making.
Entertainment
Josh Duhamel Won’t Alienate His Audience by Talking Politics
Josh Duhamel has opened up about his reluctance to speak publicly about politics, insisting that he’s not willing to risk “alienating” half of his audience.
“I have real strong opinions about things but I don’t really talk about them,” Duhamel, 53, said on the Wednesday, March 25, episode of The Megyn Kelly Show. “Why would I alienate half my audience? Because I respect their views on things but I’m not going to preach to them. They can believe what they want.”
He then joked: “I’m just here to make cool stuff.”
Duhamel mentioned that he spends “a lot of time in the Midwest,” where people are never shy to share their unfiltered feelings about Hollywood.
The Ransom Canyon actor recalled one specific incident when a friend from Georgia picked him up at the airport wearing a T-shirt that read, “Nobody Cares What Actors Think.”
Host Megyn Kelly insisted that “all [people] want” on the right is not to be “lectured” by those on the other side of the aisle.
“You don’t need to share our points of view on the big issues of the day but we definitely don’t want to be lectured by Hollywood leftists,” Kelly, 55, said, before clarifying: “I don’t think you’re [Duhamel] a leftist.”
Duhamel suggested that it “should be” a growing trend in Hollywood for actors to keep their political views to themselves.
“It makes perfect sense,” he added. “If you really want to be a success in this business, why would you make half of your audience despise you by your political beliefs? Maybe they don’t care? I don’t know. I look at it like a business decision.”

Josh Duhamel in April 2025. Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
Duhamel compared himself to a “court jester” whose primary responsibility is to entertain the masses.
“If I want to preach to you about what I believe politically, I’ll go run for office, which I’m not going to do, by the way,” he insisted.
Duhamel hasn’t always kept his political views private. As a Minot, North Dakota, native, the Transformers star backed Republican gubernatorial candidate Doug Burgum in the state in 2016 and later endorsed Burgum’s brief presidential run in June 2023. (Burgum ended his presidential bid in December 2023 and currently serves as the secretary of the interior under President Donald Trump’s second administration.)
“I don’t normally get involved in politics, but Governor Burgum has become a good friend over the years and I can’t think of anyone better than him to be our president,” Duhamel wrote via Instagram at the time.
Duhamel’s recent comments, however, echo those of Vince Vaughn, who recently slammed perceived “agenda-driven” comedy on the late night shows during his own appearance on the “This Past Weekend” podcast.
“It started feeling like I was f***ing in a class I didn’t want to take,” Vaughn, 55, complained on Tuesday, March 24. “I’m getting scolded.”
He went on, “I think that talk shows, to a large part, became really agenda-based. They were going to [evangelize] people to what they thought. You know what I mean? And so people just rejected it because it didn’t feel authentic.”
Entertainment
How did “Hannah Montana ”end? Revisiting the Disney Channel series finale 15 years later
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Miley couldn’t have the best of both worlds in the end. She had to make a choice.
Entertainment
Craig Questions Southern Charm Future After Season 11 Reunion
Craig Conover couldn’t help but rethink his future on Southern Charm after his castmates called him out for his alleged anger issues following season 11’s explosive Mexico trip.
“You guys have villainized vulnerability so unfortunately I’m not going to be vulnerable with you guys anymore,” Craig, 37, told producers as he returned to his seat for part 2 of the Southern Charm season 11 reunion on Wednesday, March 25.
Once back on stage, Craig was confronted by his costars for his blowout in Mexico at the end of the season while he was heavily intoxicated.
“God, this f***ing show, man. Maybe this isn’t right for me,” Craig confessed after being told by most of his costars that his anger was the problem, not his drinking. “Maybe I just shouldn’t be here.”
Craig, who has been part of the Southern Charm cast since its 2013 premiere, noted, “I would love to figure out a way to enjoy this again and not feel like I’m always [against everyone] even if it’s in my own head.”
Craig’s revelation came after he recalled the cast’s group trip to Mexico, where he yelled at Salley Carson for allegedly meddling in his life — and ruining his budding romance with Charley Manley. He also went off on Venita Aspen for sticking her nose into his and Austen Kroll’s issues.
“I was just sick of being meddled with. … I was like, I’m so sick of everyone getting involved in my business,” Craig confessed of his state of mind during that gateway.
When it came to why he thinks he blew up at Salley, 31, Craig noted, “I wasn’t of right mind,” hinting that his alcohol consumption was to blame for him flying off the handle.
“You still need to take accountability for your anger,” Salley said, while Rodrigo Reyes compared Craig’s actions to a “f***ing tornado.”
“That was a psychotic break,” Austen, 38, added, noting he watched the whole thing unfold.
Craig explained that being so drunk that he didn’t know exactly what happened, which worried him. “It scares the s*** out of you,” he confessed.
Shep Rose suggested that there is “this inner turmoil that you can’t get rid of.” Craig agreed that he was “in a place that no one should be in,” claiming that drinking too much “triggered a legit meltdown.”

“If I wouldn’t have drank it wouldn’t have happened,” Craig alleged, claiming he didn’t eat much that day and didn’t have any water between drinks.
Rodrigo, however, confessed, “I think it’s more of an anger issue than an alcohol issue.” Salley agreed, adding, “I don’t necessarily think it’s your drinking.”
“I didn’t realize I just bottle it all up,” Craig eventually told his costars, revealing that it didn’t register that he could be angry. “And then when you get so out of control there’s no more bottling and it comes out in a horrible way.”
Craig remembered feeling “rejected” by Charley, 28, who started to pull away from him during the Mexico vacation and “blaming the situation” on the environment and then “freaked out.”
When asked what’s next for him, Craig said he planned to “redirect” the topic of conversation during his therapy sessions.
“I always focused on ‘If I didn’t drink it wouldn’t be an issue,’” Craig revealed, confirming that he now sees the possibility that anger is a bigger factor to his volatility.
Craig concluded by saying, “I’m obviously sorry” to everyone in the cast. “I will try my hardest to make sure it never happens again,” he added.
Entertainment
Yosohn Doesn’t Want To Have Another Baby (WATCH)
Yosohn has internet users tearing up after explaining why he doesn’t want Ari Fletcher to have another baby.
RELATED: Pink Hair Don’t Care! Ari Fletcher Turns Heads With Risqué NEW LOOK For Recent Shoot (VIDEOS)
Yosohn Explains Why He Doesn’t Want Ari Fletcher To Have Another Baby
On Tuesday, March 24, Ari Fletcher appeared on fellow content creator Jordyn Lucas’ Twitch stream. Furthermore, about two hours into the stream, the pair sat down at her dinner table to eat, and were joined by Yosohn. During the conversation, Lucas asked Fletcher how her pregnancy went, and she said, “Amazing.” Additionally, Fletcher noted that her labor wasn’t so easy because her epidural moved from her back.
“I was in labor for 26 hours, I was in pain,” she told Lucas while explaining that she ultimately had to have a C-section because her body couldn’t fully dilate.
At that point, Lucas asked Yosohn if he wants more siblings from his mom’s side. He seemed to be conflicted, and Fletcher told Lucas that he doesn’t want her to have kids.
Internet Users Are Tearing Up
Internet users in TSR’s comment section were tearing up over Yosohn’s reason for not wanting Ari Fletcher to have another baby.
Instagram user @yanifnli wrote, “Sweet boy 🥺🥺🥺”
While Instagram user @iamyazli added, “She’s doing so amazing raising him 🥹🤎👑”
Instagram user @realbriamyles wrote, “Omg that’s sooo sweet❤️❤️❤️❤️”
While Instagram user @miyonikamaiya added, “He is so adorable. Omg 🥹a very good response!”
Instagram user @queenenvi wrote, “‘Me personally’.. 🥰☺️ Soooo sweet & intelligent”
While Instagram user @nova_trades added, “Meanwhile my daughter tells me everyday I’ll be alright just give her a sibling already 😂😂😂 I should’ve had a son 😭”
Instagram user @justme19761980 wrote, “Awwww.. he’s so sweet..love the bond she has with him ❤️❤️”
While Instagram user @dominiquechinn added, “Such a caring response. Boys do not play about their momma. Love it ❤️”
Instagram user @gatdamnit.tiani wrote, “😂 Im with Jordyn, I can’t take it .too sweet”
While Instagram user @darcelly_ added, “Man I love lil neph so bad he got the sweetest lil soul 🥹🥹😭😭😭🫶🏾”
Instagram user @hey.myuna wrote, “He love her soo much he always shows it. That’s because she shows him real love, he know how to give it”
While Instagram user @cheyenne.morggan added, “Aww I love how he loves his mommy 🥹😂”
Instagram user @babyface013 wrote, “This is how you know someone is a good parent. The way your children love you says alot…”
While Instagram user @totallyti_ added, “Yall know he still tore up bout dat CSection😭😭😭😭😭😭”
Instagram user @madovamalla wrote, “‘Me personally’ 🥺🥺🥺 bye man, not doing this with Yosohn this morning 😭”
Before Yosohn Explained Why He Doesn’t Want His Mom To Have Another Baby, Ari Fletcher Was Speaking On A Feud
Before Yosohn had the internet tearing up about not wanting his mom to have another baby, Ari Fletcher was making headlines by speaking on a feud. As The Shade Room previously reported, Summyah and Aspen Kartier recently ended their friendship, and Kartier appeared to imply that Fletcher potentially played a role in things going left.
Ultimately, Fletcher didn’t let the implication fly and spoke out, defending her name.
RELATED: Ari Fletcher Goes OFF While Addressing Claims She Helped Orchestrate Fight Between Aspen Kartier And Summyah Marie (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Spanx’s Spring Sale Has Deals on Activewear, Leggings and More
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If there’s ever a time to refresh your off-duty wardrobe, it’s during a rare Spanx sale — and this one is too good to scroll past. The brand’s Spring Fever event is packed with markdowns on its most popular pieces, including buttery-soft activewear, curve-loving leggings and sweatpant jeans that look polished while feeling incredibly comfortable. It’s the kind of lineup that makes getting dressed feel effortless, even on your busiest days.
Whether you’re heading to a workout, running errands or just leaning into a more relaxed everyday uniform, these on-sale styles deliver that signature Spanx blend of comfort and style. Expect smoothing fits, soft fabrics and versatile silhouettes you’ll reach for on repeat. Keep scrolling to shop 17 standout pieces that are worth adding to your cart (while deals last).
17 Must-Have Spring Styles on Sale at Spanx
1. Polished Poplin: Crisp, clean and endlessly versatile, this poplin tunic shirt is the definition of effortless polish. The collarless neckline gives it a modern feel, and the high-low hem adds just the right amount of coverage. It’s one piece that will instantly pull an outfit together — was $138, now $69!
2. Sleek Staple: This isn’t your average T-shirt. The slinky, body-skimming fit and modern high neckline create a refined silhouette that feels quietly elevated. It drapes beautifully and works just as well under a blazer as it does on its own — was $110, now $59!
3. Cool Cotton: An everyday essential gets a subtle upgrade with this pick! The smooth cotton fabric feels lightweight and breathable. Additionally, the relaxed, slightly cropped fit makes the tee perfect for pairing with high-waisted everything — was $48, now $29!
4. Easy Mini: This throw-on-and-go mini makes getting dressed feel refreshingly simple. The boat neck design adds a soft, feminine touch, and the relaxed shift silhouette keeps things comfortable without sacrificing style — was $118, now $39!
5. Sculpted Smooth: These leggings bring that signature Spanx shaping magic. The sleek scuba fabric feels supportive yet flexible, and the smoothing waistband creates a streamlined look that works with everything from oversized sweaters to fitted tanks — was $98, now $59!
6. Denim Upgrade: Your go-to cutoffs just got a serious glow-up. With built-in shaping technology and a flattering high-rise fit, these shorts hug in all the right places while still feeling easy and wearable for everyday plans — was $88, now $49!
7. Flattering Fit: A little structure goes a long way. This A-line mini gently hugs through the waist before flaring out, creating a super flattering silhouette that feels equal parts comfortable and refined — was $168, now $89!
8. Tailored Twist: These aren’t standard work pants. The barrel-leg shape adds a fashion-forward edge, and the tuxedo stripe detail brings in that sleek, tailored finish. They instantly elevate even the simplest top — was $158, now $49!
9. Airy Essential: Light as air and incredibly soft, this relaxed T-shirt lives up to its name. Drapey fabric gives it an effortless, laid-back feel, making the shirt the easiest pick for everything from travel days to casual outings — was $98, now $49!
10. Luxe Layer: This is the layer you’ll want within arm’s reach at all times. The oversized fit feels cozy without looking bulky, and the ultra-soft fabric makes the sweater ideal for throwing on post-workout or during chilly mornings — was $128, now $89!
11. Effortless Drape: Flowy, soft and endlessly wearable, these wide-leg pants strike that perfect balance between relaxed and refined style. The leg-lengthening shape gives them a polished feel that works far beyond lounging — was $118, now $79!
12. Statement Maker: When you want to switch things up, these leggings deliver. The sleek faux leather finish adds instant edge, and the shaping waistband keeps everything feeling smooth and supported — was $98, now $49!
13. Denim, Reimagined: Want a fresh take on everyday denim? These horseshoe-silhouette jeans add a modern twist, while the built-in shaping creates a flattering, curve-enhancing fit that looks good from every angle — was $158, now $109!
14. Retro Revival: These ’90s-inspired corduroy jeans bring texture back into your rotation. The structured yet stretchy fabric provides a comfortable fit, and the classic straight-leg cut makes the pants easy to style with just about anything — was $158, now $79!
15. Elevated Basic: Sometimes it’s the simplest pieces that make the biggest impact. This V-neck tee feels soft and smooth against the skin, with a flattering neckline that adds a slightly more polished touch to your everyday lineup — was $48, now $29!
16. Coastal Classic: This striped sweater gives off major coastal energy. Made with a wool-cashmere blend, the relaxed sweater feels luxe and is breathable enough to layer all spring long — was $350, now $245!
17. Subtle Flare: A small detail, big payoff. The slight flare at the hem gives these leggings a fashion-forward feel, while the sculpting waistband keeps everything looking smooth and streamlined — was $118, now $49!
Entertainment
Josh Duhamel Felt He Was in Fergie’s Shadow During Marriage
Josh Duhamel has reflected on the impact of marrying his ex-wife, Fergie, at the height of her fame.
“It was a huge shift [in my life] because she was a massive star at the time and so it was a big adjustment for me, if I’m being honest,” Duhamel, 53, revealed on the Monday, March 25, episode of The Megyn Kelly Show. “But, you know, Fergie is a very normal person, at the end of the day. A good mom. We have a great relationship. She and my wife [Audra Mari] actually get along great.”
Duhamel and Fergie (real name Stacy Ann Ferguson) tied the knot in 2009 — the same year that the Black Eyed Peas star, 50, had two Billboard No.1 hits with “Boom Boom Pow” and “I Gotta Feeling.” They welcomed their son, Axl Jack, in 2013 before calling it quits in 2019. (Duhamel married his current wife, former Miss World America winner Mari, in September 2022. They share son Shepherd Lawrence Duhamel, 2, and have a second baby on the way.)
Host Megyn Kelly took a deep dive into Duhamel and Fergie’s marriage during the interview, including asking whether either one had trouble over “whose star [was] bigger” at the time.
“Yeah, probably,” Duhamel confessed. “It’s probably my own ego more than anything. I don’t think it bugged her as much as it probably did me. But she was a massive star at the time!”
Duhamel admitted that it felt like he was “in [Fergie’s] shadow a lot of the time.” He added that he and Fergie “have a great relationship” as they coparent Axl these days.
“We parent our son, Axl. She’s a great mom,” Duhamel said. “I’m extremely happily married now to my wife, Audra. We have a beautiful son and a little girl on the way. [Audra and Fergie] have a great relationship, which is what I really care about.”
He continued, “I want to make sure everybody is just copacetic. I just want peace and I don’t want any in-fighting between anybody. They’ve been very civil, thankfully, in the way they approach this thing. … It could be ugly but, thankfully, it’s not.”
Fergie publicly congratulated her ex and Mari, 32, earlier this month when they announced that they are expecting their second child.

Josh Duhamel and Audra Mari in March 2026. Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures
“Adding a little girl to our story. We can’t wait to meet you,” Mari shared via Instagram on March 5, with Fergie replying, “Welcome the cuteness! 💖💖.”
While Duhamel has rarely discussed his split from Fergie, he did briefly address the differences in his previous and current marriages during a March appearance on “The Skinny Confidential” podcast.
“Fergie is also very wholesome, believe it or not. Especially since she sort of stepped away from it all,” Duhamel said. “She’s a great mom. Very kind, very nonconfrontational, thank God. We have a good relationship. She and Audra have a great relationship.”
The actor continued, “We’re just very different. Fergie and I, we just have different views of the world. And that’s OK, you know. But I have no regrets about that. We have a beautiful son. But [Fergie and Audra] are just very different in a lot of ways. But also, both really great women. They really are.”
Entertainment
What happened to the cast of “Magnum, P.I.”? See the stars over 45 years after making waves in Hawaii
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Here’s what became of Tom Selleck and his costars.
Entertainment
Celebrities Who Are Grandparents: Multi-Generational Family Pics
Ray Romano announced the exciting news on Sherri in March 2026 that he’d recently become a first-time grandfather. The Everybody Loves Raymond actor and wife Anna Scarpulla’s daughter, Ally Romano, and her husband, Zachary Wilezol, welcomed a baby boy named Rex Roman Wilezol on February 25, 2026.
“He was a big boy at 9 lbs, 11 oz. Yeah, a big guy,” Ray revealed to host Sherri Shepherd. “My daughter had our first grandchild.”
Asked if he was willing to be a “hands-on grandpa,” Ray pointed out, “I have four kids, myself! I had twin boys so I’ve done my share of diapers. I haven’t done it in a while but it’s good that I’m going to get back in practice because soon I’m going to have to change my own!”
The comedian hinted that he would be called “Papa Ray” as an homage to his own children calling his father “Papa Al.”
A few weeks later, Ally shared the first photo of Rex to celebrate the one-month anniversary of his birth.
“One month with my guy, Rex Roman Wilezol,” she wrote via Instagram on March 25, 2026. “He (begrudgingly) arrived on 2/25/26 with very long legs, massive hands, a full head of hair and the most perfect lips.”
Ally went on, “Although it wasn’t the start to parenthood we imagined, our strong, very big boy has shown us a new meaning to love. He’s given us a run for our money, but he’s my new bestie and a trooper!”
Entertainment
Dana Carvey picks his favorite “SNL” sketch — and reveals how he learned the Lorne Michaels voice
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The ‘Saturday Night Live’ legend shares the secrets of his iconic characters.
Entertainment
‘Reacher’ Fans Need To Binge This 10/10 Relentless Action Crime Series on HBO Max
Imagine if Jack Reacher settled in one town, then took it a step further and assumed the identity of a newly arrived, freshly murdered sheriff, whose life he tried to save. Sprinkle in a hefty amount of grit and crime, along with a provocative romance, a revenge-seeking crime boss, an extremely dangerous ex-Amish mob boss, and a tomahawk-wielding female warrior, and that’s exactly what you’ll get out of Banshee, a need-to-binge action series full of crime and thrills.
A masterpiece of the action-thriller subgenre, Banshee features The Boys’ psychopathic villain Homelander, Antony Starr, in his first major American lead television role. While the New Zealand-born actor previously appeared in a string of memorable roles, it wasn’t until Banshee that he had the opportunity to showcase his true talent, much like Alan Ritchson with Reacher. If you’re a fan of the massive, lethal ex-soldier and find yourself looking for a series to keep you just as entertained, settle in for this righteous binge of one of the most exciting action-crime series you’ll ever see, and get a peek at a whole other side of Antony Starr while you’re at it.
‘Banshee’ Features Antony Starr in a Career-Defining Role
Antony Starr turned heads as an ex-con-turned-sheriff when Banshee debuted on Cinemax in 2013. The action-crime series follows the master thief, who is fresh off a 15-year prison stint for stealing $15 million in diamonds, as he sets out in search of his former lover and partner in crime, Anastasia (Ivana Miličević). See, after their heist, the police were on their tale, so he gave her the diamonds and told her to run, sacrificing himself in the process. When he finds her in the small Amish town of Banshee, Pennsylvania, he’s shocked to learn she now goes by Carrie in her new life, which includes a husband and kids.
Heartbroken, he stops off for a drink at a local bar, and that’s where we first see Starr in action as the badass he is. After he thwarts a robbery gone wrong and realizes the new town sheriff is left lying dead on the floor, with no one to know but himself and the bartender, our ex-con assumes the sheriff’s identity and stays in town, much to Carrie’s surprise and hidden delight.
Life in Banshee isn’t easy, though, especially when you’re trying to stay hidden from the Ukrainian crime boss you ripped off, and even when you’re the one enforcing the law. As Sheriff Lucas Hood, our anti-hero soon finds himself continuing his criminal activities and going head-to-head with former Amish mob boss Kai Proctor (Ulrich Thomsen), now an intimidatingly wealthy businessman who believes himself to be above the law. There are also clashes to be had with a nearby Native American reservation. Our protagonist, however, has zero qualms about using his position to impose his own unorthodox, often brutal brand of justice rather than follow traditional law enforcement methods, and this is where the series really gets interesting.
‘Banshee’ Is a Criminally Underrated, Must-See Gem With a 10/10 Cast
Much like Ritchson’s Reacher persona, Starr’s Lucas Hood is equally captivating. The show features a memorable cast of colorful characters, all of whom are mysterious with deep, emotional complexities in their own ways. Hoon Lee appears as the cross-dressing computer hacker Job, Frankie Faison as former boxer-turned-bartender Sugar Bates, Tom Pelphrey as former Aryan Brotherhood member-turned-sheriff’s deputy Kurt Bunker, Ben Cross as Ukrainian crime boss Rabbit, and Odette Annable as supremely skilled, close-combat tomahawk warrior Nola Longshadow.
The series breaks the knob off the action accelerator and gives viewers some of the most exhilarating action sequences seen on TV. The movie-quality fight scenes are top-notch and exceptionally choreographed, blending gritty realism with explosive stunt work. There’s no doubt that the crime series’ style is unique and its premise wild, and that’s what keeps viewers glued to their screens… well, that and all the “You’re not better than me” attitudes in the mix.
‘Banshee’ Works So Well Because It Cares About Its Protagonist
The must-see series places a giant spotlight on its protagonist anti-hero and its unapologetic style of a raw, unfiltered fight for power. In merging high-stakes noir storytelling with pulpy action, creators succeeded in moving the series away from a crime drama procedural to focus on a relentless, highly stylized, adrenaline-fueled narrative blending crime, drama, and Western elements. Watching Banshee unfold is like flipping through the pages of a graphic novel then seeing it brought to life: jaw-dropping and utterly exciting.
Where Reacher features a largely invincible, duty-bound hero, Banshee’s anti-hero is scrappy, flawed, and emotional. He’s an ex-con who utilizes intelligence and sheer violence to make his way. Banshee is much darker and more intense, featuring graphic violence, expert-level fight choreography, and deeper, more curious character development.
Banshee ran for a solid four seasons before concluding in 2016. Currently boasting a 90% Rotten Tomatoes critics’ score and a 93% audience rating, the engrossing series goes above and beyond to deliver on action, excitement, and no-holds-barred entertainment. It’s the perfect choice for fans of pulpy action thrillers, and for fans of Reacher.
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