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James Bond’s Newest Actor Had His Breakout in Netflix’s Near-Perfect Sci-Fi Series 10 Years Ago
Denis Villeneuve‘s James Bond is still years away from hitting the big screen, but fans may have already found their next 007. With the franchise’s 26th film expected in 2028, debate continues over who should inherit the iconic role, with names such as Jacob Elordi, Damson Idris, Callum Turner, Henry Cavill, Theo James, and even Tom Holland frequently mentioned. Amid the ongoing speculation, IO Interactive took the unexpected step of casting Patrick Gibson as Bond in the latest franchise entry.
Gibson’s new role has already generated excitement among modern audiences, with some wondering whether the franchise is in exceptionally capable hands. However, longtime television fans may already recognize him from Netflix‘s near-perfect, mind-bending sci-fi series The OA, in which he delivered a masterful performance that significantly raised his profile. While he has taken on several notable projects since then, The OA remains one of his most memorable roles to date, suggesting he is certainly not your regular 007 agent.
Netflix’s ‘The OA’ Revealed Patrick Gibson’s Range
When The OA premiered on December 16, 2016, it was unlike anything else on television. Blending supernatural mystery, interdimensional science fiction, and fantasy, the series relied on its ensemble cast to ground its ambitious concepts with emotional depth. In it, we see Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling), a young blind woman, return home after disappearing for seven years. Her return raises further questions when it is revealed that she is no longer blind. While she refuses to explain her disappearance to the FBI and her parents, she shares her story with four teenagers and a schoolteacher, revealing how she became the “Original Angel.”
Among The OA’s talented ensemble cast was Gibson, who portrayed Steve Winchell, one of the four teenagers drawn into Prairie’s story. What made Gibson’s performance so compelling was his delivery of one of television’s most dramatic redemption arcs. Steve begins as an aggressive, self-destructive bully, but over the course of two seasons, Gibson gradually unveils a deeply wounded yet fiercely loyal character who undergoes a profound spiritual awakening.
That arc reaches a turning point in The OA Part I finale, when Steve joins the group in performing the Movements to open a portal, allowing the “OA” to travel to another dimension. He then chases the ambulance carrying Prairie. By the jaw-dropping Part II finale, the arc culminates. We see Marling appear as herself in a new dimension, injured on a film set, and, at the same time, Jason Isaacs—whose character, Hunter Aloysius ‘Hap’ Percy, has crossed dimensions—enters an ambulance with her. Believing he has finally succeeded, Hap is beyond shocked when a fully synchronized Steve suddenly jumps inside the moving vehicle and greets him, saying, “Hello, Hap.”
Unfortunately, fans never got to see what happened next. On August 5, 2019, Netflix cancelled The OA after two seasons despite its strong critical reception, thus ending the story on a cliffhanger. As a result, Steve’s fate and his role in the sci-fi drama’s larger mystery remain unresolved. Even so, creators Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, along with Isaacs, have continued to express hope that the planned five-season story can one day be completed.
Patrick Gibson’s James Bond Redefines the Franchise’s Future
Gibson’s compelling character arc in The OA laid the foundation for his place in gaming history, showcasing the very traits required to portray a younger, less refined version of Bond. This is particularly evident in the first major franchise game in over a decade, 007 First Light. The new game emerged following a hiatus triggered by the critical and commercial failure of 007 Legends in 2012.
007 First Light is an original narrative inspired by Ian Fleming’s novels and short stories, as well as the long-running film series. It serves as an origin story for the renowned intelligence agent, focusing on a 26-year-old, inexperienced Bond tasked with a mission that, if completed successfully, will earn him his ’00’ status. Players guide the character through training and field missions in the third-person action game, with full control over how to tackle each operation. They can either go in aggressively with weapons and hand-to-hand combat, or take a stealthy approach, using the environment, deception, and social engineering to slip past or outwit enemies.
With no actor yet cast to succeed Daniel Craig in the film series at the time of development, IO Interactive had significant creative freedom in shaping its version of Bond. That ultimately led to Gibson being cast as Bond in 007 First Light. Narrative and cinematic director Martin Emborg noted that the actor brought a sense of “built-in impatience” that was “perfect” for a younger Bond. Beyond that, the character still exudes natural charisma but is also defined by a fearless inner intensity rooted in childhood trauma—an energy reflected in his fighting style.
007 First Light was released for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S on May 27, 2026, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version scheduled for later in the year. It immediately received strong critical and commercial acclaim, selling 2.7 million units in its first week and earning praise for its gameplay, combat system, writing, and Gibson’s performance as Bond. Note that the game is unrelated to Villeneuve’s upcoming James Bond film reboot, which Amazon MGM Studios is developing.
Gibson’s breakout in The OA from a decade ago now reads like an early preview of the intensity he brings to Bond in 007 First Light. His casting reflects IO Interactive’s broader reimagining of the franchise, shaping a younger, more reckless 007 agent built around emotional edge as much as action. In reimagining Bond through Gibson, the game doesn’t just refresh a familiar character; it subtly resets expectations for where the franchise can go next.
The OA streams on Netflix.
- Release Date
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2016 – 2019-00-00
- Network
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Netflix
- Directors
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Andrew Haigh
- Writers
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Dominic Orlando, Henry Bean, Damien Ober, Ruby Rae Spiegel
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Netflix is facing a $105 million lawsuit after a master copy of an unreleased Nicolas Cage thriller was allegedly stolen from the streaming company’s Hollywood offices. Swiss billionaire Simon Afram, who personally financed and produced the $45 million film “Fortitude,” is accusing Netflix of breach of contract after its digital cinema package disappeared nine days after being delivered. Netflix disputes that it is financially responsible for the loss and has accused Afram’s attorneys of engaging in “hostile attempts to extort money” from the company.
An unencrypted master copy of “Fortitude” was hand-delivered to Netflix’s Hollywood headquarters on June 15 at the streamer’s request. The transfer was reportedly part of the movie’s ongoing sales process. Studios reviewing potential acquisitions commonly request a digital cinema package, or DCP, that can be projected inside a commercial theater.
Netflix executives screened “Fortitude” the following day. However, Netflix Original Film director Sean Berney informed parties connected to the production on June 25 that the drive containing the film had been stolen, according to an email included as an exhibit in the lawsuit.
“This is a first for us. Unfortunately, someone stole a good amount of drives from our office desks this past week. We’ve been working through this with our security teams to no luck,” Berney wrote, per Page Six. “Our piracy teams are on high alert with the breach and will monitor, but they are likely just selling the drives for scrap given they would require a [key delivery message].”
Berney continued, “We will of course create a new DCP or reimburse you for this missing drive. Apologies again and here to answer anything further and/or connect you with our security teams.”
A source at Netflix claimed the other missing drives were empty and did not contain additional projects. The complaint does not clarify whether the stolen DCP was the only existing master copy of “Fortitude.”
Lawsuit Claims Netflix Waited To Disclose The Theft
Afram’s lawsuit alleges Netflix may have known about the missing drive for as long as one week before informing the filmmakers.
“Netflix’s email indicated that Netflix had known about the theft of the DCP for potentially a full week without ever advising plaintiffs that Netflix had allowed” Fortitude’s DCP “to be stolen right off a Netflix desk,” the complaint states.
The producer’s attorneys argue that Netflix’s proposed response failed to account for the film’s production cost and potential market value. Creating a replacement DCP would reportedly cost approximately $800, while Afram invested more than $45 million into developing and producing the project over seven years.
The case was filed in federal court in California’s Central District. Afram is represented by Caroline Mankey and Christopher McAndrew of Akerman, along with Neville Johnson and Hyura Choi of Johnson and Johnson.
‘Fortitude’ Was Inspired By A Real-Life World War II Spy
“Fortitude” centers on Dusko Popov, a real-life World War II double agent and playboy who reportedly helped inspire Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels. At an earlier stage in the project’s development, Martin Scorsese was considering directing Simon Afram’s screenplay as a potential Leonardo DiCaprio vehicle. The final version instead reunited Cage with filmmaker Simon West, who previously directed him in the 1997 action movie “Con Air.”
The movie also stars Ben Kingsley and Ron Perlman, with a supporting ensemble that includes Matthew Goode, Michael Sheen, Art Malik, Jordi Mollà, Lukas Haas, Ed Skrein, Alice Eve, Paul Anderson and Emilio Sakraya. Court documents describe the film as “tonally in the vein of ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ meets ‘Inglorious Basterds.’”
“The resulting damage to Plaintiffs is profound,” the lawsuit states. “Through its mishandling of the Film and subsequent dismissiveness, Netflix has jeopardized Plaintiffs’ investment of over $45 million and the significant value of the Film itself. Netflix has also deprived the Film, its cast, and its creators of the opportunity to bring their work to market and receive recognition that a properly marketed worldwide release likely would have generated.”
Netflix Denies It Bears The Risk Of Loss
Netflix pushed back against Afram’s allegations in a statement, arguing that the film was delivered without sufficient industry safeguards.
“Netflix disputes any claim that it bears the risk of loss for a film delivered without the proper industry-standard safeguards. While we do not own the rights to ‘Fortitude,’ we take content security seriously and have taken extra measures to support the filmmaker and his team. This includes conducting a thorough investigation and offering to monitor known piracy sites for any unauthorized distribution or sale,” the streamer stated.
Netflix also addressed why it has not provided Afram’s legal team with details about its investigation. “We have declined to share anything about our ongoing investigation with the law firm representing Simon Afram, given their hostile attempts to extort money from Netflix over this situation, including immediately demanding $165 million for the film rather than work with us in good faith,” the company added.
Although Afram is now seeking $105 million, Netflix claimed his attorneys initially demanded $165 million.
Producer Explains Film’s Alleged $112.5M Value
Afram’s attorneys based their damages calculation partly on what they believe the film could have earned through a properly handled worldwide release. According to the complaint, the estimate considers early interest from studios and distributors, audience test scores, feedback from sales agents and the commercial potential of the genre.
The lawsuit claims “the film can be conservatively estimated to at least break even, which in the motion picture industry translates to revenues of at least 2.5 times the production budget, or $112,500,000.”
Afram also emphasized that his concern extends beyond recovering his personal investment. “I spent seven years of my life bringing this incredible true story to the screen. But this film was never mine alone. It belongs to the extraordinary cast and their performances of a lifetime that deserve to be seen and recognized. It represents the moment these artists have earned,” he said.
The lawsuit now leaves a federal court to determine whether Netflix can be held responsible for the missing DCP and whether its disappearance caused the nine-figure damages Afram claims.
“Spider-Man” star Andrew Garfield will not forget this milestone collaboration in a hurry!
The filmmaker has made ground-breaking movies and won millions of hearts on his acting journey, but only a few records can break the one he holds for appearing alongside Claire Foy twice.
Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy first appeared in the 2017 flick “Breathe” and have linked up a second time for this soon-to-be-released project, “The Magic Faraway Tree.”
The actor caught up with US Weekly at the screening of the upcoming movie at the New York City Regal Union Square to express how he feels about appearing with Foy.
Declaring her admiration for the filmmaker as an actress, a person, and a brand, Garfield expressed, “I love being her friend, and collaborating with her is a highlight of my career — both times.”
He described her as a rare actor and an even rarer human being who makes everything around her fun and everyone around her happy. He added that acting alongside the legend has somewhat made his craft better.
The British actor gushed about Foy being so full of grace for people, for an experience, and how she never holds on to anything tightly, also teaching her how to do the same.
“She teaches me a lot about letting go of control and letting go of having to micromanage everything. She’s someone who’s very, very happy to go with the flow with things, and I find that quite inspiring,” Garfield concluded.
The Actor’s Co-Star Can’t Keep Calm About His Brilliance
Foy returned the favor about Garfield’s person in a separate interview, praising his talent and brilliance in front of the camera lens. The actress recalled Garfield on set as a warm, silly personality who was fun to be around.
She added that it was very relieving to see the actor in a different dynamic with the kids, and to see him play the character. Garfield himself described working with the kids as very joyful, adding that existing in the countryside during shooting, feeling the air was amazing.
The upcoming movie also reminded the movie star of his childhood, remembering what it is to be connected to the inner child part everyone carries that never goes away. He stated that he feels very lucky to be able to spend a couple of months in the summer with the cast, Foy and the kids, thanks to Simon Farnaby’s incredible script.
Garfield will appear alongside Phoenix Laroche, Billie Gadson, Delilah Bennett-Cardy, Nicola Coughlan, Rebecca Ferguson and Nonso Anozie in the upcoming movie.
Andrew Garfield Previously Took A Break From Acting To Recalibrate
In 2022, the British actor got candid with Variety about taking a much-deserved break from acting to rest and figure out what to do next with his career. This confession came shortly after he scored his second Oscar nomination for his performance in “Tick, Tick … Boom!.”
While he is not displeased about the upward trajectory in his career, he admits that his thirst to be ordinary has remained unquenched for a while. As shared by The Blast, the actor also lost his mother to pancreatic cancer in 2019, which left him in precise agony, making it very difficult to move on.
Garfield, who featured in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” alongside Tobey Maguire to become one of his most successful projects ever, also spoke on his future playing the friendly neighborhood superhero character.
As far as he was concerned back then, Garfield affirmed that he was done embodying that character, despite the fact that he earlier pranked his fans about making an appearance in “No Way Home.”
The 42-Year-Old Attached Some Strong Conditions To His Future As ‘Spider-Man’
In his interview with GQ in 2025, as shared by PEOPLE, he affirmed that he would not be appearing in the fourth installment of the “Spider-Man” franchise, “Brand New Day.” In the same publication, he added that he might consider returning as Spider-Man if it felt in line with his soul and promised to be fun.
He made the atmosphere lighter, noting that if the paycheck got a bit bigger, it may hasten his consideration process. Garfield joked that he might end up having five kids at some point, and he may need to start saving up for school tuition, and the money from such a sweet deal may just come in handy.
He admitted the same truth in a 2024 interview where he stated that it would take a great concept for him to accept the Peter Parker role again. Nevertheless, he was happy to have been a part of the entire journey, and he would have never had the foresight to do that on his own.
‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ Still Holds The Franchise’s Record
Garfield’s was part of the movie, which broke the record as the biggest opening post-COVID and the third-biggest opening ever at the worldwide box office, according to Deadline. It trailed right behind 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame,” which earned $1.22B, and 2018’s “Avengers: Infinity War,” which raked in $640.5M at the box office.
For the latest installment of the franchise, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” it is projected to get a $450M debut at the worldwide box office, which would be Sony’s biggest global opening ever. It comes after 2021’s Spider-Man: No Way Home, which began with a $600.5M worldwide start, and ahead of 2003’s Spider-Man 3’s $381.6M.
“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” has a Rotten Tomatoes critics score of 89%, right behind the last installment, which grabbed a 93%. The latest installment is also predicted to break several records across Europe and Latin America.
Andrew Garfield will surely give everyone a show when that movie drops!
North West has finally addressed the sudden collapse of what would have been her first headlining tour, leaving fans with a promise after multiple scheduled dates quietly disappeared.
The 13-year-old daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West was set to hit the road alongside rapper Molly Santana for the Kimokawaii Tour, but after several shows were canceled, North broke her silence to reassure supporters that although the tour is over, something new is already on the horizon.
Rather than leaving fans guessing, North West took to her Instagram Stories to personally confirm that the Kimokawaii Tour would not be moving forward.
“I was really excited to go on tour w molly santana sadly it isn’t happening anymore but i have something special for u guys see ya soon,” she wrote per the Daily Mail.
The brief message marked the first time the teenager publicly addressed the situation after online speculation intensified over disappearing tour dates.
While she acknowledged her disappointment, she stopped short of explaining why the tour had been scrapped, instead choosing to leave fans with a hopeful promise about what’s still to come.
The canceled run would have been a milestone for the aspiring performer, marking her first headlining tour alongside rapper Santana with 14 scheduled stops across North America beginning August 5 in Dallas.
Santana Apologized Directly To Ticket Holders
Shortly after North West’s statement, Santana shared a longer message expressing regret to fans who had already purchased tickets and made travel plans.
“To everyone who bought tickets to the tour i sincerely apologize i know a lot of you have taken time out of your busy schedules and spent your hard earned money planning to be there,” she wrote on Instagram Stories.
Santana said connecting with her audience remained one of the most rewarding parts of being an artist. “Nothing makes me more happy than the opportunity to share more amazing memories with you all and i hope to see you soon,” she continued.
Closing her message, the rapper thanked supporters for their patience and loyalty. She noted, “You are all so greatly appreciated and please know that i never take your time or support lightly i love yall so much & i promise i will make this one up to you.”
North West Leaves Fans Waiting For Her ‘Something Special’
While North declined to explain why the Kimokawaii Tour was called off, she made it clear that she wasn’t planning to stay away for long.
Her promise of “something special” immediately sparked curiosity among fans, especially as the tour continued disappearing from official platforms.
Ticketmaster has since marked the August 5 Dallas opener and the August 17 Toronto show as canceled, while AXS removed the August 27 Los Angeles date from its listings.
The Kimokawaii Tour page has also been taken down from Santana’s official website, further signaling that the North American run has been shelved.
Neither artist has indicated whether the canceled performances will be rescheduled, leaving fans eagerly awaiting details about the project North hinted is already on the horizon.
North Reached A Major Milestone Before Her Tour Plans
If North West’s latest promise is any indication, she isn’t letting the canceled tour define her next chapter.
Fans already got a preview of her growing confidence as a performer when she stepped onto a major festival stage for her first solo set.
In June 2026, the then-12-year-old made her first-ever solo music festival appearance at Lyrical Lemonade’s Summer Smash in Bridgeview, Illinois, stepping onto the stage in an all-black Balenciaga outfit, oversized sunglasses, and blue pigtails.
During the set, North performed “TALKING,” her collaboration with her father Kanye, along with songs from her debut EP, “N0rth4Evr.”
The crowd enthusiastically cheered her on as both of her parents celebrated the milestone from the audience and on social media.
Kim later shared backstage photos and performance clips on Instagram, while Kanye reposted videos of the performance on his own account.
North West’s Biggest Cheerleaders Are Her Own Family
North’s growing confidence as a performer has been matched every step of the way by unwavering support from the Kardashian-Jenner family.
When she released her debut EP, “N0rth4evr,” in May, her famous relatives turned the milestone into a family celebration.
As PEOPLE reported, North gave fans a glimpse of the festivities on Instagram Stories, showing off balloon displays spelling out the EP’s title and other decorations Kim arranged at home as snippets of “Aishite” played in the background.
Elsewhere, Kris Jenner, Khloé Kardashian, and Rob Kardashian each took to Instagram Stories to share screenshots of themselves streaming the six-track project, with Rob making one of his rare social media appearances to publicly celebrate his niece.
The support continued offline during North’s two-day Complex LA pop-up event, where Kanye greeted fans, posed for photos, and signed merchandise before Kim later joined the celebration.
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Everyone wears sandals with dresses. Kate Hudson, however, wore a unique shoe style that not only appears more elevated, but also transitions beautifully from summer to fall. We found her luxe look on sale for only $40!
While posing with her daughter in Athens, Greece, Hudson wore a silky blue dress and jelly-looking woven flats. Her nude shoes have a subtle hint of shine, as do these Amazon wonders. They’re a triple threat of fashionable style, hitting three major trends at once. As one reviewer puts it, they’re “an affordable way to get the jelly look, mesh look and ballet slipper all in one.” Sold!
Get the Cushionaire Siesta Lattice Jelly Flats for $40 (was $60) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
These Cushionaire Siesta Lattice Jelly Flats nail Hudson’s vibe to a T. And no, they aren’t the sticky, sweaty jellies you may remember from the ’80s. The revived style is refined, cushioned and genuinely wearable, so don’t be surprised if you choose these slip-ons daily.
Nothing elevates an outfit quite like an expensive-looking bag, and Chrissy Teigen wore the most luxe version of all. Her Bottega Veneta crossbody costs thousands, but we found the signature look for only $42 on Amazon. Seriously, nobody will know the difference! During a European family vacation in Croatia, Teigen stepped out in the most […]
The woven design gives them a contemporary flair while the round toe keeps things classic. Hence, these chic flats are polished enough to wear with wide-leg pants, midi skirts and silky dresses à la Hudson, and you’ll probably do all of the above.
One Amazon shopper said they “needed something other than flip-flops or sneakers” and wrote that “these are perfect.” Another happy fan shared, “Not only are [they] the cutest jelly shoes, but [they’re] the most comfortable ever! I have tried several jelly shoes but [they] always hurt my feet. I can walk miles in these.”
Hudson makes classy look easy because — with the right pieces — it actually is. All you need is your favorite dress, these trendy flats and the confidence to rock the combo. We’re totally here for the jelly flats renaissance.
Get the Cushionaire Siesta Lattice Jelly Flats for $40 (was $60) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more chic shoes, and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
If you’re seeing Nicole Kidman‘s woven shoe style all over your feed, same. Whether you call it a sneakerina, ballet sneaker, ‘jazz shoe’ or anything in between, there’s no denying it appears expensive. We found Kidman’s luxe look hiding on Amazon! For the 2026 Wimbledon Tennis Tournament, Kidman paired a cream-colored power suit with ballet […]
2026 has already been a rampaging year for cinematic excellence, with everything from universe-traversing adventure epics like Project Hail Mary to psychologically chilling indie box office hits like Obsession. It shapes as being a monumental year for fantasy in particular, with titles like The Odyssey, Toy Story 5, and even HBO’s small-screen exploits like House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms highlighting the full emotional scope of the genre.
This booming interest in fantasy stories presents a wonderful opportunity for movie lovers to indulge in cinema’s rich history in the genre as well. Whether it’s due to thematic similarities between past classics and cultural hits of this year or celebrating major anniversaries of some of fantasy film’s greatest ever titles, these fantasy masterpieces are all must-see movies in 2026.
‘The Odyssey’ (2026)
It could be presumptuous to herald The Odyssey as an instant classic, but its widespread fanfare and universal critical acclaim certainly signal that Sir Christopher Nolan’s latest movie will be discussed for many years to come. Powered by the filmmaker’s trademark commitment to practical filming, Homer’s epic poem is brought to the screen with an unmistakable sense of gravitas that stems from its commanding ensemble cast as much as it does from its stunning visuals and bold adaptive storytelling.
Every step of Odysseus’s (Matt Damon) famous journey is depicted with astute craft and imposing magnitude. The Odyssey has enshrined itself as not only the must-see cinematic event of the year, but as one that demands to be watched on the biggest screen possible. Whether it will come to be viewed as Nolan’s greatest film is yet to be seen, but it is undeniable that it features every bit of the gripping cinematic brilliance and enormous scale that have made him the defining director of the 21st century thus far.
‘Nostos: The Return’ (1989)
While it isn’t a traditional classic of mainstream cinema, Nostos: The Return is something of a revered gem as far as international arthouse movies go, and there has never been a better time to revisit it than right now. Adapting The Odyssey, it follows Odysseus’s (Luigi Mezzanotte) voyage home after the Trojan War. However, it’s more of a spiritual exploration of themes of memory, the passage of time, and humanity’s complex relationship with nature rather than a narrative-driven story.
Dialogue is minimal, and what dialogue there is is a made-up concoction of ancient Greek, Sanskrit, and Latin; the bold creative decision allows the visual storytelling and cinematic poetry to take center stage. While it understandably won’t appeal to everyone, those who love Nolan’s interpretation of The Odyssey and want to delve deeper into Homer’s world and themes would do well to find Nostos: The Return to explore the story in a completely different fashion.
‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’ (2001)
Originating from the mind of J. R. R. Tolkien, the stories of Middle-earth have become a defining masterpiece of high fantasy storytelling. 2026 marks a significant year for the franchise in media, as it marks the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking release of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The magnificent introduction to the fantasy realm for many, it immerses viewers in the majesty, wonder, and danger of Middle-earth.
The film sees Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) and the fellowship begin their journey to destroy Sauron’s evil ring of power in the fires of Mount Doom. Beautifully handled by Sir Peter Jackson and his team, the Oscar-winning film is viewed by many as being the single greatest fantasy movie of all time, an utterly enchanting masterpiece that has proven ageless with its emotional depth and technical mastery.
‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ (2001)
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is particularly relevant this year, with fans eagerly awaiting the HBO adaptation of this esteemed fantasy series. However, an incredibly high bar has been set by the original 2001 film, which found a perfect balance between childlike wonder, enrapturing adventure, and detailed worldbuilding to be utterly enchanting from start to finish.
From its humor and charm, ability to marry backstory and character depth with propulsive entertainment, and rich allure that is as universally accessible as it is infectious, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a true masterpiece of the genre. Whether it’s diehard fans of the series returning to it for the umpteenth time, adults returning to a childhood favorite decades later, or even a first-ever viewing, the first Harry Potter movie deserves to be celebrated anew in 2026.
‘Pan’s Labyrinth’ (2006)
Pan’s Labyrinth is the perfect mix of fairy tale awe, dark fantasy horror, and real-world drama. Complimented by director Guillermo del Toro’s trademark Gothic style, it unfolds in Francoist Spain as young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero), along with her heavily pregnant mother, relocates to a remote farmhouse at the behest of her brutish stepfather, a military captain hunting down rebels. Amid the woodland, Ofelia meets a faun who tells her she can return to her rightful place as the Princess of the Underworld if she completes three dangerous tasks.
While it indulges in moments of shocking violence and visceral terror, Pan’s Labyrinth excels. At its heart, it maintains a sense of fairy tale innocence, beautifully complemented by outstanding visuals and a spellbinding score that brings the fantasy allure of the picture to vibrant life. With 2026 signaling 20 years since the movie premiered, now is as good a time as any to rewatch the morbid, mystifying, and majestic masterpiece.
‘Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron’ (2002)
In the Chinese calendar, 2026 is a remarkably rare year as, for the first time since 1966, it stands as the year of the Fire Horse. While the cult classic animated gem Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron may not feature any stallions ablaze, it is the perfect movie to celebrate this incredibly rare milestone. It captures the spirit of the zodiac, which embodies intense passion, strong independence, fearless courage, and nobility in leadership.
Combining fantasy beats with a rich Western setting, Spirit follows mustang stallion Spirit (Matt Damon) as he roams the wild expanses of the American frontier, forming an unlikely friendship and finding love while becoming an unsung hero of the Old West. The 2002 DreamWorks Animation release is largely a forgotten gem of the form, but it remains a childhood favorite for many who grew up in the era, thanks to its tender balance of historical adventure, kid-friendly fantasy, and animated splendor.
‘Labyrinth’ (1986)
Even in such a vast and eclectic field of cult classics produced by the 1980s, Labyrinth is a standout, offbeat gem that mixes wondrous puppetry and dark fantasy edge. Bolstered by David Bowie’s unforgettable performance as the Goblin King, it follows young Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) as she ventures into the villain’s labyrinth, having to successfully navigate the mind-boggling maze in 13 hours to save her baby brother.
Despite its middling box office performance and mixed reviews, Labyrinth has emerged as an infectious fan favorite that has aged gracefully. The practical creature designs and Jim Henson’s impressionable puppetry have become tactile and unique in the modern world of CGI effects that strive for realism. Picture theaters the world over will be hosting re-screenings this year to commemorate the film’s 40-year anniversary, making it a perfect time for fans to revisit the cult gem as well as for intrigued fantasy lovers to experience the movie for the first time.
‘Excalibur’ (1981)
When did fantasy cinema stop looking like this? Embracing a sense of stylized eccentricity, John Boorman blends gleaming chrome armor with the gorgeous landscapes of Ireland and eye-catching lighting techniques to conjure a visual spectacle of irresistible majesty. However, far more than just a stunning exercise in style, Excalibur also thrives as one of the best retellings of Arthurian legend ever put to screen, one that isn’t afraid to stray into the moral foibles of dark fantasy to bring a distinct edge to the familiar story.
Even as its efforts to cram the entirety of Arthurian lore into its 141-minute runtime sometimes lead to clunky and hurried storytelling, Excalibur still absorbs viewers with imposing, dreamlike beauty and indulgent excess. It also features an unforgettable operatic soundtrack, several captivating action sequences, and an ensemble cast of young upstarts who went on to become some of the biggest stars of their generation. Excalibur is a treat of ‘80s fantasy awe that is arguably even more enthralling 45 years on.
‘Faust’ (1926)
Anniversaries are a big deal in cinema. From minor milestones like 10 or 15 years to more substantial landmarks like half-century celebrations, movie lovers always grasp an opportunity to commend the films of yesteryear when such dates arrive. Few movies have had the opportunity to enjoy a centennial sensation, but F. W. Murnau’s silent fantasy classic is one that can hopefully attract some attention, especially given how it delves into religious and moral themes with piercing depth despite not being afforded the luxury of sound.
Instead of dialogue, the German picture leans heavily on ageless expressionist visuals, innovative special effects, and brilliant physical performances. It depicts a grim tale of corruption, redemption, and deceit following a misguided old alchemist led astray by a demon as he tries to help his plague-riddled village. Derived from traditional folklore tales and a portion of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s 1808 play, Faust endures even 100 years later as a striking fantasy-horror movie that all cinema lovers should seek out.
‘Spirited Away’ (2001)
Another magnificent triumph of animated cinema that is revered by many as being the greatest picture the form has ever seen, Spirited Away is a masterclass in worldbuilding, visual style, and fairy tale storytelling that stands as a magnum opus in Hayao Miyazaki’s illustrious career. Produced by Studio Ghibli, the Japanese film follows a young girl as she finds herself lost in a magical realm and having to work under the thumb of supernatural beings to save her parents, who have been turned into pigs.
Striking a deft balance between sheer otherworldly wonder and softly subdued eeriness, Spirited Away is a transfixing viewing experience, an enrapturing immersion into one of the most magical worlds ever conceived for cinema that is both exciting and wicked. Marking 25 years since the animated family classic was first released, 2026 is a perfect opportunity to return to Miyazaki’s majestic fantasy imagination.
QVC host Rick Domeier is ready to begin a new chapter away from the shopping network.
“At the end of the year, I’ll be going down a very different road — a road I’ve never been on before. It’s called retirement road,” Domeier, 65, exclusively shared with Us on Wednesday, July 29. “I heard it’s fun, and I’m going to be retiring at the end of this year, end of December.”
The longtime host — who joined QVC in October 1994 — officially announced the news live on air during his Rick St. Nick show on Thursday, July 30, as part of QVC’s Christmas in July finale.
According to Domeier, the decision was made after some long, thoughtful chats with his wife, Amy.
After 37 years with QVC, Mary Beth Roe hosted her final show on the shopping network. “Everything in the show tonight is something that I chose and it really is special,” Roe, 65, shared with viewers during My Time with Mary Beth — Retirement Celebration on Friday, March 21. “The people that are here tonight […]
“We both agreed that now’s the perfect time for me to kind of cruise down retirement road while most of this engine is still functioning,” he joked. “That’s going to give me the next few months to thank the incredible people I work with backstage, the producers, the directors, the on-air talent and thank the most important person at QVC, which is the QVC customer, for having been with me and accepted me for what will be 32 years.”
Rick Domeier Courtesy of QVC
In his final months on air, Domeier certainly won’t be slowing down.
While he looks forward to hosting special shows with Valerie Parr Hill, spotlighting food brands like Corky’s and Rastelli and highlighting beautiful jewelry with David Markstein, Jill Bauer and JAI, there’s something new Domeier will be launching.
“They’re giving me a new show. It’s called Rick Hits the Road. We’re going to do some broadcasts from different cities,” he teased. “The first stop is New Orleans. That’s coming up next week. It’s going to be with Jimmy Stovall and Ali Carr and the crew, and we’re going to meet the QVC customer. More stops to come.”
When looking back on his QVC journey, Domeier realized viewers watched him get married, become a father of two sons and work with several celebrities, including the late Joan Rivers.
Rick Domeier Courtesy of QVC
As he looks toward the future, Domeier is excited to spend quality time with family and friends — without the thought of an alarm clock to kick off a Today’s Special Value.
“My wife and I are gonna spend some time together. … We have a lot of travel ideas,” he teased. “There’s also a wedding coming up with my son that’s coming up in 2027. There’s also an opportunity to reconnect with friends. I also want to stay in touch with the team that I work with now. I’m really into fitness and longevity for obvious reasons. I want to keep that going, so it’s all about exploring and learning and then sharing. I kind of want to document how this goes. I want to find out what retirement is all about.”
Some QVC shoppers can’t help but make a connection with some of the network’s products — and hosts. Over the years, viewers have developed close bonds with longtime program hosts who have a gift of selling everything from fashion and beauty products to food and electronics. Every so often, some of the program hosts decide […]
While it’s too soon to announce an official retirement show, QVC viewers know the network loves to honor their talented hosts with special programs before they say goodbye.
If Domeier were a betting man, he predicts there’ll be “moments” to remember.
“There’ll be clips. There’ll be people stopping by,” he predicted. “I do think that there’s going to be a live audience show or two. I want that to happen. I want it to be in person. I want it to be celebratory. I am excited about this next chapter. I want it to be more fun than sad.”
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Where is Bryan Kohberger today? Everything to know before Netflix’s Idaho murders documentary
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Days before the premiere of Netflix’s “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare,” convicted killer Bryan Kohberger sought to withdraw his guilty pleas and overturn his convictions.
Taylor Swift’s longtime bond with Blake Lively’s family has reportedly become one of the most heartbreaking casualties of the actress’s ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni.
While the pop superstar was once deeply involved in the lives of Lively’s daughters, insiders now claim she has stepped away from her role as their godmother after deciding there was “no choice” but to distance herself completely.
The reported decision has left one of Hollywood’s closest friendships seemingly beyond repair.
With Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s legal battle pulling high-profile names into the spotlight, Taylor Swift ultimately became one of the biggest celebrities linked to the controversy.
According to Daily Mail insiders, the fallout has now reportedly ended not only her decade-long friendship with Lively but also her role as godmother to the actress’ daughters James, Inez, and Betty, 6, whom she shares with Ryan Reynolds.
“It was one of the toughest decisions she’s ever had to make,” a source close to the singer claimed, adding, “It was very emotional because she loves the girls. It hurt her heart, but she had no choice given the circumstances.”
According to the insider, Swift made the decision “a few months ago” after discussing the situation with her new husband, Travis Kelce, and concluding it “was the right thing to do.”
“There was never an agreement in writing about her being the girls’ godmother. It was a verbal one between Taylor and Blake,” the source added.
Swift Built A Close Bond With Lively’s Family
Although the arrangement was reportedly informal, Taylor Swift was said to have embraced the role completely.
Over the years, she frequently spent time with Lively, Reynolds, and their children, hosting the family at her Rhode Island home, celebrating Halloween together, and incorporating the girls into her music.
She famously featured James’ baby voice at the beginning of “Gorgeous” and later even used the names James, Inez, and Betty as characters across songs from her 2020 album “Folklore.”
Then in July 2024, the Grammy Award winner publicly acknowledged the relationship promoting Reynolds’ “Deadpool & Wolverine.”
“Shout out to Wade Wilson, aka my godkids’ sperm donor!” she joked, referencing Reynolds’ Marvel character.
Reynolds later confirmed the title during an interview with Deadline, saying, “I’m going to need that on my gravestone, actually. She is the godparent to my daughters. That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that.”
Taylor Swift Even Surprised The Girls By Including Them In Her Music
Swift’s relationship with the children extended well beyond public appearances. Reynolds previously revealed that even the girls had no idea their names would appear on “Folklore” until the album was released.
“We surprised them with it,” the actor said during a SiriusXM “Town Hall” interview in 2021, further noting, “They didn’t know. They had no idea.”
While performing in Madrid during the Eras Tour in May 2024, Swift also acknowledged the sisters in front of thousands of fans.
“I have to say that on Folklore, some of my favorite characters are named James, Inez and Betty,” she said, as the three girls reportedly celebrated from premium seats alongside their mother.
According to insiders, however, moments like those are unlikely to continue following the reported breakdown of Swift’s friendship with Lively.
Swift Reportedly Hopes To Reconnect With The Children Someday
Sources say the reported decision continues to weigh heavily on Taylor Swift, even as she enjoys a new chapter in her personal life following her marriage to Travis Kelce.
“Taylor’s having the time of her life now that she is married, her family is great, her career is great and she’s looking forward to the future,” another insider shared, adding, “The only thing that is causing troubles in her life is Blake’s kids and not having the relationship she would like to have with them as their godmother.”
The source also noted that the 36-year-old believes maintaining a close relationship with the children while having virtually no relationship with their parents would place them in an unfair position.
According to them, “Taylor doesn’t believe it’s fair to anyone involved – especially the kids – to put them in the middle of such a strained situation. She believes stepping away is the most respectful path forward for all parties.”
Despite the painful decision, another source claimed Swift still hopes the relationship can one day be repaired.
“She hopes that once the children are adults, and 18 and able to make their own decisions, they’ll be free to reconnect if they choose,” the source explained.
Source Suggests Blake Lively Knows More About Taylor Swift Than The Public Realizes
While the future of Swift and Lively’s friendship remains uncertain, recent insider claims suggest there’s still plenty the public doesn’t know about their once-close relationship.
According to a new insider, one reason the reported fallout attracted so much attention was because the “Gossip Girl” actress allegedly possessed deeply personal knowledge about Swift that had never been shared publicly.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, the source claimed, “Blake knows plenty about Taylor that has never become public,” while insisting there is no expectation that the actress would reveal those details.
The insider further alleged that Swift had no concerns about Lively speaking out, claiming she had “complete faith” that any private conversations would remain confidential despite their reported estrangement.
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Jared Leto accused of raping underage girl, grooming 16-year-old in new sexual assault claims
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“He told me, ‘I would like you to call me daddy’. And it was either pretend to be a little girl or ‘my little girl’,” one woman alleged.
A California woman was reportedly shot dead in front of a police station on Saturday, July 4. Furthermore, her son is accused of the crime.
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California Man, Emmanuel Wesley, Accused Of Shooting Mother In Front Of Police Station
Emmanuel Wesley is accused of shooting his mother, Theresa Jones, in front of a police station on the Fourth of July. According to KTLA, the 61-year-old was shot as she sat behind the wheel of her car at approximately 2:46 p.m. in front of the Fullerton Police Department.
Surveillance video reportedly captured Emmanuel Wesley getting out of the backseat after Jones slumped over. The FPD claims Wesley moved his mother over to the passenger seat before getting in the car and driving off.
Furthermore, Jones was reported missing on July 7. This, reportedly, after she didn’t pick up her grandchild or answer her phone.
Jones’ Body Was Found One Week Later
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office revealed that the 61-year-old’s body was found in a church parking lot on Saturday, July 11.
Furthermore, she’d been shot twice in the back, and the FPD arrested her son for felony murder. In addition, he was charged with felony enhancement, alleging the discharge of a firearm causing great bodily injury or death.
Wesley was denied bail and is currently an inmate at the Orange County Jail. The 23-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Orange County District Attorney Accused Wesley Of “Depravity”
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer subsequently gave a statement, noting the horrifying details of the alleged matricide.
“The death of any human being is a tragedy,” said Spitzer. “For someone to kill their own mother is another level of depravity. We will do everything we can to pursue justice for Ms. Jones and everyone who loved her.”
A GoFundMe was set up by her loved ones, who also shared a statement.
“Tragically, Theresa was taken from us far too soon on the Fourth of July in an unimaginable act of violence,” it read in part. “After she missed picking up her beloved grandchild, an agonizing week-long search led to her discovery on July 11. The shock of her loss has left a profound, empty space in the hearts of everyone who loved her.”
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