By Matthew Flynn
| Published 2 minutes ago

Near Dark, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, is a unique blend of neo-Western and horror genres. The plot traces the life of Caleb Colton, a small-town young man, who gets entwined with a family of nomadic American vampires. The film stars Adrian Pasdar as the protagonist Caleb, with Jenny Wright, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, and Jenette Goldstein in the supporting roles.

Originally, Kathryn Bigelow had intended to make a pure Western movie with Near Dark. However, she found garnering financial backing too challenging. Unfazed, she decided to embed the elements of the popular vampire genre into the Western setting.

This ambitious undertaking of blending the genres led to a revisionist interpretation and brought about the resurgence of American vampire films in the 1980s.

Near Dark first graced the silver screen at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 1987 before being officially released on October 2, 1987, across 262 theaters. Despite its innovative take on the vampire genre, the movie failed to make a significant impact at the box office initially. Nevertheless, it won the favor of critics and eventually cultivated a dedicated cult following over the years.

The narrative of Near Dark is centered around Caleb, who encounters Mae, an enigmatic drifter. After she bites him on the neck, he finds himself turning into a vampire and is subsequently taken into the fold of her roving vampire crew. Caleb grapples with his new form, particularly his aversion to kill for sustenance, which estranges him from his new family.

Renowned for her unique storytelling style and visual flair, Kathryn Bigelow made her directorial debut with Near Dark. After, Bigelow continued to create groundbreaking films across a broad spectrum of genres, from war drama The Hurt Locker, which saw her become the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director, to the thrilling action in Point Break and the gripping drama of Zero Dark Thirty.

Bigelow was married to director James Cameron from 1989 to 1991 and knew him prior to her work on Near Dark. Their connection could explain the carryover from Cameron’s Aliens to Near Dark. Three actors from Cameron’s film, Paxton, Goldstein and Henriksen, also appear in Near Dark.

The film received a generally positive response from critics, who appreciated the amalgamation of the Western, biker, and vampire movie elements in Near Dark. But no one saw it.

Near Dark was made on a modest budget of around $5 million, but despite strong reviews and a now-cult reputation, it struggled commercially, earning only about $3.4 million at the domestic box office. When released in 1987, the film faced stiff competition and marketing challenges, especially as audiences gravitated toward more traditional vampire fare like The Lost Boys, which hit theaters that year with a flashier, youth-oriented appeal. Yet, its status as a cult classic grew over time.

In 2006, plans for a remake of Near Dark made headlines but were later abandoned due to its conceptual resemblance to Twilight. The shelved project was to be a collaboration between Rogue Pictures and Platinum Dunes, with Samuel Bayer set to direct.

Near Dark stands as a testament to the compelling blend of Western and vampire genres. Despite its initial box office performance, the film continues to captivate audiences and critics alike with its unique charm.

Throughout his time on social media, Jake Paul has remained a controversial figure. Alongside his brother Logan Paul, the two have often found themselves at the center of online debates. From YouTube to boxing, Jake can’t seem to escape the hot seat. Well, it looks like after a recent interview, he’s right back in it while discussing what he’s possibly cooking up in response to Druski’s viral skit

RELATED: Wait, WHAT?! President Trump Seemingly Tells Erika Kirk To Sue Druski Over His “Conservative Women” Skit (VIDEO)

Jake Paul Says Druski’s Skit Sparked Him To Consider His Own Version In Blackface

Jake Paul recently sat down with Theo Von. In a part of the podcast, the two reacted to Druski’s “Conservative Women” skit, sharing how hilarious it was.

Jake stated, “It’s f***king hilarious. I loved it. And I’m obviously Republican, and like, all the Republicans being mad about this sh is like a f***ing L for Republicans, because this is f***king hilarious. And even though it’s… dark and twisted… this is what comedy… is… we are f***king humans. Let’s make fun of ourselves. And there’s truth in this. Yes. And extreme truth. And people weren’t ready for that.”

Jake then shared that for the last couple of days, he’s been calling makeup artists while thinking about responding to Druski with his own skit, but darker. When discussing if he would be on the same playing field as Druski, Theo shared that there’s a way to do it and that the character may need Black support from someone like Druski or Charles Barkley.

Jake responded, saying, “That’s p****ing out.” He added, “Doesn’t that make us more prejudiced if we have to partner with someone. Druski just dropped this ad he’s done it a couple of times and I… love it. This is great. This is how humans should be. We should make fun of each other, and I don’t see in color; I see in truth and comedy. So like, what are we talking about? So you’re saying that… what era are we living in?”

The two went on to discuss Justin Trudeau and Jimmy Kimmel, both of whom have previously worn blackface. Jake added, “Look at f***ing Jimmy Kimmel on the left. Untouchable, like what the f**k bro how does he get away with it?”

Theo Von also shared that the thing that pisses him off is that kids can’t be black for Halloween and dress up as their favorite athletes and such.

Social Media Reacts

As soon as Jake Paul’s clip hit the timeline, folks headed straight to The Shade Room Teens’ comment section! Some went in on him, educating on the history of blackface. Others even feel like he’s been wanting to do it and is using this as an excuse. Meanwhile, others mentioned it’s different because Druski did it for comedic purposes, while questioning Jake Paul’s intentions.

Instagram user @freakymarko wrote, “He been wanting to do it but using druski as an excuse to do it”

Instagram user @daeja_vu_ added, ”He’s not funny tho yer his black face would be done with ill intent. Druski just being a good comedian there’s a difference”

While Instagram user @cheyenneleondra wrote,”Somebody said ‘didn’t a black man already rearrange your face 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂” 

Instagram user  @lostvibzs wrote, “go ahead and try it milk cricket.”

Instagram user @noflutesallowed added, “A comedian displaying a character and a regular yt man doing blackface are TWO TOTALLY DIFFERENT SCENARIOS. But do it and see 😏”

While Instagram user @d_alluring1 wrote, “wtf is blacking around?”

Instagram user @iyahszn wrote, “yt folks wanna be oppressed so bad i don’t get it. they hate feelin left out 😂”

Instagram user @thebiggestbratalive added, “HAVE YALL NOT BEEN DOING TS THO???”

While Instagram user @downeastjay wrote, “I hope he does I’d love to never see him box again”

Druski Has The Internet In A Chokehold As Fans React To His Past White Characters

Since Druski dropped his latest skit a few weeks ago, many have been reacting to his other white characters. While the “Conservative Women” skit is trending now, fans also praised his “Proud To Be American” and “White Boy In The Hood” characters.

While picking their favorites, one user gave Druski his flowers, writing, “No one can tell me that this man isn’t funny,” adding, “Definitely between the white YN and conservative white woman.” Some couldn’t even pick a favorite, with one person writing, “All of em & s/o to his Grandaddy.”

RELATED: Social Media Asks About Druski’s Family After His Apparent Response To Backlash Over His “Conservative Women” Skit

Aubrey Plaza and Chris Abbott knew each other for years before their relationship turned romantic.

Plaza’s rep confirmed to People in April 2026 that the actress is pregnant and expecting her first baby with Abbott. A source told the publication that it was a “beautiful surprise” following the Parks and Recreation alum’s difficult year.

Plaza was previously married to Jeff Baena for nearly five years before news broke in January 2025 that he died by suicide at age 47.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” a rep for Plaza told Us in a statement at the time. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.”

Related: Celeb Pregnancy Announcements of 2026: Aubrey Plaza and More

Many stars are expanding their families in 2026. Riverdale alum Charles Melton’s girlfriend, director Camille Summers-Valli, rang in the new year by confirming her pregnancy with their first baby. Two days later, Paradise star Krys Marshall debuted her baby bump at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards. “I am due any minute now, honey,” Marshall exclusively […]

It was later confirmed that Plaza and Baena were separated for four months before his death.

“According to the reported information, the decedent Jeffrey Baena is a 47-year-old Caucasian male,” the Los Angeles medical examiner wrote in a report obtained by Us in March 2025. “He was experiencing recent marital difficulties and was separated from his wife since September 2024.”

Plaza largely stayed out of the public eye as she mourned, briefly speaking about her grief during an August 2025 appearance on Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast.

“Overall, I’m here, and I’m functioning, and I feel grateful to be moving through the world,” Plaza said at the time. “I think, like, I’m OK, but it’s a daily struggle, obviously.”

Months later Plaza stepped out during Paris Fashion Week in March 2026, seemingly hiding her baby bump with an oversized shirt and leather jacket.

Keep scrolling to look back at Plaza and Abbott’s relationship from the start:

December 2020

Aubrey Plaza and Chris Abbott first worked together in the 2020 thriller Black Bear.

October 2023

Plaza and Abbott starred in the Off-Broadway revival of Danny and the Deep Blue Sea.

July 2025

Instagram gossip account DeuxMoi claimed Aubrey Plaza and Chris Abbott were together after an eyewitness spotted them cozying up at The Chatham Berry Farm just outside of New York City.

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November 2025

Photos and videos of Aubrey Plaza and Chris Abbott at a New York Knicks game emerged on social media.

Related: ‘Parks and Recreation‘ Cast: Where Are They Now?

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The Parks and Recreation cast filled homes with laughs and love during its seven-season run on NBC, but since the show ended, fans have still been able to see their favorite faces from the group in a slew of high-profile projects. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Enter your email Please enter […]

February 2026

Chris Abott accompanied Aubrey Plaza to events during Paris Fashion Week. The duo were photographed at the Khaite fashion show.

April 2026

A rep for Aubrey Plaza confirmed to People that she is expecting her first baby with Chris Abbott.

If you’re looking for top-notch dramas, your streaming destination should be Amazon Prime Video.

The Watch With Us team has put together our roundup of the three Prime Video dramas with at least 90 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

All three of this month’s selections competed for numerous Oscars, including Best Picture.

However, the most recent arrival, Marty Supreme, is only available for rent on Prime Video at the moment. But at least it’s on sale if you decide that you’d rather purchase it.

Related: New on Prime Video in April 2026 — The Complete List of Movies and TV Shows

Prime Video remains the best value among streaming services today. Where else can you stream the latest blockbuster movies, like Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning with Tom Cruise, as well as original films like Crime 101, starring Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry? It’s not all movies, though. Prime Video has some pretty spectacular shows […]

‘Ford v Ferrari’ (2019)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92

Don’t be fooled by the thrilling racing sequences in Ford v Ferrari. There’s a gripping sports bio drama underneath those scenes that made this film an Oscar nominee for Best Picture. Matt Damon and Christian Bale lead the cast as race car designer Carroll Shelby and race car driver Ken Miles, respectively.

The two men are hired to come together after Henry Ford II (Tracy Letts) feels personally insulted by Enzo Ferrari (Remo Girone). To get back at Ferrari, Ford wants Miles and Shelby to create a Ford racing car that’s capable of beating Ferrari’s top model at one of the most prestigious races in the world, the 24 Hours of Le Mans. But the task is hard enough to pull off without some of Ford’s executives undermining Shelby and Miles along the way.

Ford v Ferrari is streaming on Prime Video.

‘American Fiction’ (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93

American Fiction was also a nominee for Best Picture, and Jeffrey Wright was also up for Best Actor for his performance as Dr. Thelonious “Monk” Ellison. Monk is an academic and a novelist, but his books don’t sell, and he finds himself feeling increasingly jealous of Sintara Golden (Issa Rae), a Black author who panders to stereotypes in her best-selling books.

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It’s a quiet month for dramas on Amazon Prime Video, even though a handful of big releases like Sinners will be making their debut on the streamer later in December. Since those new arrivals aren’t dramas, we’re going with a 2024 biopic that had major movie distributors running away from it out of fear of […]

Out of frustration, Monk writes a satirical novel that goes even farther than Sinatra’s books. To his shock and horror, Monk’s new novel is received as a massive hit. He’s even convinced to take on a pen name, Stagg R. Leigh, whom the publisher pretends is an escaped fugitive on the run from the law. Suddenly, Monk has all of the success he ever dreamed about, even as he’s unsettled about the way it happened. But this deception can only go on for so long.

American Fiction is streaming on Prime Video.

‘Marty Supreme’ (2025)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93

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Marty Supreme was nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Timothée Chalamet. Although the film went home empty-handed, it was still one of the best movies released in 2025. Chalamet plays Marty Mauser, a young man who dreams of being a table tennis champion in the early ’50s. Marty is also incredibly unscrupulous and willing to rob and lie just to get the chance he needs to succeed.

Marty also finds himself wrapped up in two different romantic relationships, including an actress, Kay Stone (Gwyneth Paltrow), and his childhood friend, Rachel Mizler (Odessa A’zion), who is married to another man. Given the depths Marty is willing to go to get ahead, it shouldn’t be surprising to hear that some of those attempts backfire. Marty knows what he wants, but the price he’ll have to pay for his ambition is getting higher by the minute.

Marty Supreme is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video.

Social media users are goin’ IN after Hunxho exclusively reacted to the viral “you the birthday” trend sparked by his ‘Birthday Girl’ song.

RELATED: Whew! Hunxho’s New Look Has The Internet Girlies Up In Arms (PHOTO + VIDEOS)

Hunxho Reacts To Viral “You The Birthday” Trend Sparked By His ‘Birthday Girl’ Song

According to Genius, on September 19, 2025, Hunxho released his project ‘For Her 2,’ which featured 16 songs, one of which was titled ‘Birthday Girl.’ On the chorus of the song, Hunxho sings, “It’s your birthday, look good on your birthday/ Chanel for your birthday, Van Cleef for your birthday/ It’s your birthday, it’s me for your birthday/ Peace on your birthday, she eat, she the birthday girl”

Apparently, social media users found Hunxho’s “she the birthday” phrase appealing, and recently many have been sharing videos and comments using the phrase.

Swipe below to see.

Social Media Users Are Goin’ IN

Since then, other social media users have been wondering what “she the birthday,” and the subsequent phrases mean. TSR’s social media contributor, Lawrencia Grose, exclusively reached out to Hunxho for his take.

“I’m still tryna figure what ‘she the birthday’ is myself. I like what they did wit it though,” he stated in part.

Although Hunxho himself is a bit puzzled, that didn’t stop social media users from goin’ IN on him in TSR’s comment section.

Before Hunxho Reacted To The Viral “You The Birthday” Trend Sparked By His ‘Birthday Girl’ Song, He Was Speaking On His “Wrongs”

Before Hunxho reacted to the viral “you the birthday” trend, he was making headlines for welcoming a baby girl into the world. As The Shade Room previously reported, in January, Hunxho took to his Instagram Story, showing that he welcomed his third child.

Around that same time, he took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share a message about his “wrongs” and “flaws.”

RELATED: Hunxho Shares Message Speaking On His “Wrongs” After Revealing He Recently Welcomed Newborn Baby Girl

Angel Reese is leaving Chicago behind and stepping into that new, new vibe as she heads to Atlanta. And she’s not only switching teams, but also her look. She debuted her new pixie cut while in New York City for the historic launch of her Victoria’s Secret campaign. Between the new hair and her campaign photos, the fans are loving how Reese is stepping into her next chapter. She said on Tuesday that she’s excited for “A-Town” after her trade to the Atlanta Dream from the Chicago Sky.

RELATED: Queen Treatment Only! Angel Reese Gives Peek Into Romantic Date Night & Fans Are Here For The Energy (VIDEO)

Arrogant Tae Gives Angel A Pixie Look

The dolls in the industry? Beauties in a bussdown? Baddies of the internet? They know Arrogant Tae. “We in Atlanta I buy her a wig, she telling me Tae is the best.” That Tae. Angel Reese’s fans are now giving the stylist 10s again after she debuted her new look. She captioned her IG post on April 7, “Betty Boo,” and posted several photos of her pixie curls. Tae also shared that he styled her hair that same morning. “Something new. I was scared bt it came out cute,” Tae wrote in a video of Angel Reese posing in her new style.

Angel Reese Talks About Atlanta Dream Trade & Life Outside Of Basketball

It’s offseason for Reese, whose headed to Atlanta Dream in May after being traded in her third WNBA season. Despite the change, Reese told PEOPLE on Tuesday that she was “so excited” when she found out. “The team has welcomed me so much, the atmosphere, the culture…I’m so excited to be in A-town.” 

The news of her trade broke on Monday, one day before her Victoria’s Secret campaign launch. She’s the first WNBA player to star in one, ever. After the news, she reportedly told The Atlantic, that she’s grateful to join Atlanta Dream and focused on growing her game, being a top competition, connecting the fans and giving the team everything she’s got!

Meanwhile, the General Manager of Chicago Sky, Jeff Pagliocca, said, per PEOPLE, that trading Reese for two first-round picks was “a great opportunity for all parties” and “designed to achieve roster balance.” She

Right now, she’s the face of Victoria’s Secret new swim and beauty line. She modeled for the launch in Barbados. While down there, she spoke to Elle Magazine about why she’s building her own brand outside of just playing basketball:

“My mom and my grandma always told me basketball is gonna stop one day, so continuing to build my platform was always important. Since I was younger, I’ve always been into fashion. Feel good, look good, play good. That’s always been the mindset for me. Building my own brand, being myself, being super versatile on and off the court, within my clothes or even within my style of play, was really important.”

On Tuesday, in NYC, rocking her black and white suit, and pixie cut,  she told PEOPLE her photos for VS came out “phenomenal.” Adding that the shoot was “so much fun,” even with sandy “in ever place it shouldn’t have been in.

Angel Makes Poses With Her Victoria’s Secret Campaign (PHOTOS)

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