There’s something inherently entertaining when it comes to a thriller. With a large group of genres under the umbrella, audiences flock to films that keep them on the edge of their seats. Maybe it’s the story or the performances that keep you engaged, but a great thriller requires excellent direction.

Throughout, there have been extraordinary masterpieces, but among those, the films on this list are perfectly directed. From legendary visionaries to directors on the rise, they share an evocative power to make a lasting impact. With countless awards and inspiring new techniques in filmmaking, these directors helmed perfect films. For this list, we are keeping it to one film per director to share the wealth of praise! There are certainly many titles that could have found their place on this list, but these films are perfect.

1

‘Taxi Driver’ (1976)

Director: Martin Scorsese

Image via Columbia Pictures

There are certainly a plethora of titles that could be considered Martin Scorsese‘s greatest work. Though he’s been nominated for several Academy Awards for Best Director, winning only one, his most impactful work, which set him on the course of an influential director, came with Taxi Driver. Also jumpstarting his long-term collaboration with Robert De Niro, Taxi Driver tells the story of Travis Bickle, an isolated, mentally unstable Vietnam War vet. He works nights as a taxi driver, due to his insomnia, in a decaying, crime-ridden New York City. As he spirals due to loneliness and psychosis, Bickle turns to violence in an attempt to clean up the city. Centering on vigilante violence, Taxi Driver captures a man’s decline through a nightmarish dreamscape of isolation.

Scorsese’s film is not an easy one to watch. There are moments that are destined to make you uncomfortable. Yet, Scorsese prevents those moments from being grotesque. Instead, they serve to exemplify Bickle’s state of mind. Using pan-away shots, you start with an image of Bickle, then suddenly pull back to reveal he’s alone. It may be subtle, but it’s effective filmmaking. Then, by distorting reality through slow-motion and dream-like lighting, Scorsese forces the audience to see the world as Bickle envisions it. Taxi Driver is a deeply intimate character study that showcases how Scorsese doesn’t always need a grand ensemble to tell an effective narrative. Taxi Driver is an iconic film with an iconic character who established the ’70s in cinema. None of that could have been done without Scorsese.

2

‘Get Out (2017)

Director: Jordan Peele

Image via Universal Pictures

If you told anyone in the early 2000s that MAD TV star Jordan Peele would become a horror filmmaker who effectively changed the genre, they would likely laugh. And then, in 2017, Get Out debuted, and Peele established himself as a brilliant director audiences flocked toward to see what he would craft next. It all stems back to the brilliance that is Get Out. A sensational dissertation on how the horrors of our world are the things out in the open, Get Out became the modern psychological-horror standard. Peele’s tale follows Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya), a Black photographer, as he visits his white girlfriend Rose Armitage’s (Allison Williams) parents, Missy and Dean (Catherine Keener and Bradley Whitford), for the weekend. While there, he soon discovers, thanks to the weird behavior of the Black servants and awkward microaggressions, that the family lures Black people to their estate to transplant elderly white minds into their bodies, leaving victims in a paralyzing void known as the sunken place. Chris must get out before he’s next. A haunting, meticulously directed film, Peele’s social thriller relies on psychological discomfort rather than traditional horror tropes to create an effective masterpiece.

The horror of racism could have led to an overtly on-the-nose story that didn’t capture Peele’s mission. Instead, he holds a mirror up to society while amplifying the horror elements around it. Capturing the state of the world, Get Out had an essence of believability that made it scarily real. The anxiety of Black America is a profound theme, helped by putting the audience in Chris’s shoes. As the writer and director, Peele knew this film inside and out. He expertly fleshed out his universe by making it eerily real, so by the time the truth is revealed, there is a plausibility that psychological mind games might effectively be around us. In the end, the emotional payoff is satisfying and empowering, effectively wrapping up his directorial feature debut.

3

‘Uncut Gems’ (2019)

Director: Safdie Brothers

Image via A24

There have been many sibling duos who became legendary directors. In the 21st century, it was Josh and Benny Safdie who joined the extraordinary list. All it took was their crime thriller, Uncut Gems. The high-stakes film follows Howard Ratner (Adam Sandler), a charismatic, gambling-addicted New York City jeweler. Upon acquiring a rare Ethiopian opal, he must juggle mounting debts, angry loan sharks, and his complicated family life in a relentless, high-anxiety pursuit of the ultimate winning bet. With a precisely chaotic movie, the Safdies create an engaging yet stressful atmosphere that evokes the action of Howard’s journey.

The Safdies orchestrate a realistic pandemonium to effectively create the high-stakes adventure. From frenetic handheld cameras to overlapping dialogue, the controlled chaos leads to exposing Howard’s manic anxiety and addiction. Viewers are trapped on Howard’s thrill ride, only leaving when the deed is done. Working with cinematographer Darius Khondji, sound mixer Skip Lievsay, and Daniel Lopatin‘s synth score, the overlapping elements become harmonious while being erratic, heightening the heist. As far as acting is concerned, they pulled out a career-best out of comedian Sandler, proving he deserves to be taken seriously as a dramatic actor. Uncut Gems sparkles and shines thanks to the extraordinary work of the Safdies.

4

‘Parasite’ (2019)

Director: Bong Joon-Ho

Image via NEON

For the longest time, foreign-language films seemed to be on the outskirts of mainstream cinema. Then, Bong Joon-Ho‘s Parasite arrived, and that separation ceased. A true masterpiece in direction, Parasite blends dark comedy with dark thriller elements to tell the story of the Kims, a poor family who infiltrate the wealthy household of the Parks by posing as unrelated, highly qualified servants. A scathing critique of modern capitalism through the lens of class conflict, inequality, and greed, Bong’s transition from witty scam comedy into suspenseful tragedy provided for an alluring film. Parasite‘s success as the first foreign-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture relies on Bong’s sheer brilliance.

Easily Bong’s magnum opus, Parasite takes a simple premise and turns it on its head. Like the sleek home the Parks take over, Bong meticulously builds Parasite from the ground up, using the architectural blueprint to construct a sleek film. His ability to cast a stark contrast of class through every production element — costumes, set, color — leads to a seamless composition of his vision. With so many genres and themes to balance, Bong maintains an effective tone that makes Parasite a shapeshifting thriller. The natural progression of the story falls into place without question. Through subtle changes in atmosphere, through sound and lighting, the Parks’ journey becomes even more thrilling. Parasite is unapologetic, as Bong does not allow outside influence to shape the narrative of classism in society. Parasite might be presented from a Korean perspective, but Bong’s ability to make it largely universal allowed the film to be the mainstream hit that it is.

5

‘No Country For Old Men’ (2007)

Director: Joel and Ethan Coen

Image via © Miramax/courtesy Everett Collection

Very few directors know how to make an atmosphere a thrill in and of itself quite like Joel and Ethan Coen. With a brilliant resume behind them, they made their mark in the 2000s with their neo-Western crime thriller No Country for Old Men. Using Cormac McCarthy‘s 2005 novel as inspiration, the story follows a trio of men: Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin), a Vietnam War veteran and welder who stumbles upon a large sum of money in the desert; Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem), a hitman who is sent to recover the money; and Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones), a sheriff investigating the crime while battling a changing world he feels ill-equipped to handle. Set in the vast desert landscape of 1980 West Texas, the Coen brothers’ masterpiece is a story that isn’t about who ends up with the loot; it’s about the chase between the hunter and the hunted, a role each of the main characters adopts throughout the film.

A masterclass in visual storytelling, the Coens’ ability to build suspense through silence and ambient natural sounds heightens the tension, dropping viewers into a bleak, desolate landscape that mirrors the grim, philosophical approach to their story. No Country for Old Men showcases how capturing the precise atmosphere leads to a perfect movie. As far as characters go, the collaboration between the directors and their star brought out one of the 21st century’s most recognizable villains in Anton Chigurh. Lifted effortlessly from page to screen, just his gaze alone strikes immediate fear. No wonder Bardem earned an Oscar for his performance! As did the Coens. They have made cult classics and impressionable offbeat dark comedies, but nothing has ever been quite like their achievement with No Country for Old Men.

6

‘Eyes Wide Shut’ (1999)

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

It’s safe to say that Stanley Kubrick can do extraordinary work in literally any genre of cinema. For his final project, Kubrick took Arthur Schnitzler’s novella, Dream Story, and brought it to modern times in the erotic psychological thriller, Eyes Wide Shut. The ’90s classic follows Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise), who spirals into a night-long, surreal odyssey of sexual obsession and paranoia after his wife, Alice (Nicole Kidman), admits to nearly abandoning their family for a fantasy encounter. Blurring the line between the couple’s subconscious desires and their actual actions through a journey between reality and fantasy, Kubrick’s masterpiece is smartly crafted and profoundly executed.

What Kubrick does well is create a hauntingly surreal, slightly off dream. Hidden in plain sight, Kubrick creates a symbolic vocabulary through imagery, light, and color. The vibrancy and its transforming palette represent shifting emotional states, jealousy, and danger. As a brilliant psychological thriller that visually shows the emotional state, it is a masterful way to tell the story. Kubrick united top-tier performers to create such perfect chemistry, it bled off-screen as well! Eyes Wide Story is sexy and erotic, and it is thought-provoking and gripping. A film that was misunderstood at first, only to age like fine wine, Kubrick left the world, making his favorite film in his storied career. Eyes Wide Shut is truly like nothing he’s crafted before.

7

‘American Psycho’ (2000)

Director: Mary Harron

Image via Lions Gate Films

The premise of American Psycho sounds terrifying, but when director Mary Harron brought Bret Easton Ellis’ novel to life, the result was an exceptional black-comedy psychological thriller. The film follows Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale), a wealthy 1980s New York City investment banker who hides his alternate life as a sadistic serial killer. The plot, centered on themes of materialism and alienation, tracks his descent into madness as he murders colleagues, including Paul Allen (Jared Leto), and strangers, while his superficial social circle remains oblivious. With a central character that has attempted to be replicated, but can only be referenced, American Psycho was an underdog film that became a classic overnight. Hatton took a sensational story and blew it up for the big screen. Balancing horrific violence with satirical comedy, she took the superficial 1980s and narcissism to critique the absurdity of the yuppie lifestyle and male vanity.

At its core, American Psycho is a slasher film about the most enigmatic serial killer. Perhaps the most shocking part about the film is the reaction to Patrick Bateman. Harron worked with Bale to find the rich nuances within Patrick that, for whatever reason, resonated with audiences, with some even idolizing him. As she told Letterboxd, she always saw the film as “a gay man’s satire on masculinity.” She notes how the idiosyncrasies of the character, like the meticulous rituals and obsession with image, are “men are prizing their extreme competition and their ‘elevating their prowess’ kind of thing.” She says, “There’s something very, very gay about the way they’re fetishizing looks and the gym.” Harron’s ability to give Bateman the room to deliver a precise, iconic performance as a narcissistic, detached psychopath made the film perfect. At the end of the day, American Psycho is a fantastic, bloody film.

8

‘The Manchurian Candidate’ (1962)

Director: John Frankenheimer

Image via Paramount Pictures

If there’s ever been a film that forces you to question everyone you once trusted, look no further than The Manchurian Candidate. Based on Richard Condon’s novel, John Frankenheimer brought to life the perfect Cold War neo-noir political thriller. The iconic film tells the story of an American Korean War platoon brainwashed by Communists. Sgt. Raymond Shaw (Laurence Harvey) is programmed as a sleeper assassin tasked with killing a U.S. presidential candidate to aid a Communist conspiracy managed by his mother (Angela Lansbury). Major Bennett Marco (Frank Sinatra) is on a mission to uncover the plot by any means. A darkly satirical film, The Manchurian Candidate, highlights themes of paranoia, mental manipulation, and political corruption through Frankenheimer’s sharply edited narrative.

To expose the paranoia at the film’s root, Frankenheimer deploys a disorienting, rapid-cutting editing style. Sensational examples include the brainwashing scenes, which transition seamlessly between a communist lecture hall and a New Jersey garden party, making the surreal feel real. Lionel Lindon’s cinematography is enhanced by black-and-white shooting and unique camera angles that heighten the thriller’s sense of paranoia. Perhaps one of the underappreciated achievements of Frankenheimer in this film is his hand-picked ensemble. He pulled out standout performances from every actor, exposing how going against type can deliver perfect shocks. Seeing how he led Lansbury to an Oscar nomination in her deliciously manipulative mother role underscores how crucial the relationship between actor and director is. The Manchurian Candidate is a deeply focused film that was truly ahead of its time due to Frankenheimer’s pristine vision.

9

‘Se7en’ (1995)

Director: David Fincher

Image via New Line Cinema

When a film forces you to question the contents of a box delivered at your feet, you know you’ve done something brilliant. Such was the case for David Fincher’s Se7en. The film follows disenchanted, nearly retired Detective Lieutenant William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and his newly transferred partner David Mills (Brad Pitt) as they try to stop a serial killer from committing a series of murders based on the seven deadly sins. A brutal and gruesome crime thriller, Se7en went beyond the typical police procedural to deliver something thought-provoking and intelligent through Fincher’s calculated control over tone, visual aesthetics, and the psychological manipulation of the audience through shock.

To capture the specific essence Fincher was searching for, he deliberately placed the film in an unnamed city, detached from time and space, creating a timeless, universal sense of dread. And nothing spells dread quite like persistent rain. Alongside cinematographer Darius Khondji, the duo used a “bleach bypass” chemical process on the film stock to deepen shadows and create a high-contrast, desaturated look. Further, the subtle use of color allows the eye to delve into the important details. For the story, the audience is well aware that the killer is playing with the seven deadly sins, and thus, we wait for each to be unleashed. It’s a slow burn built through tension during the investigation. By the time the climax culminates and John Doe (Kevin Spacey) drops his final twist, that slow-burning was more than worth it. Se7en is Fincher showing why perfectionism can lead to a sensation. Every single frame is curated, resulting in a stunning final product. A timeless classic, Se7en exemplifies Fincher at his finest.

10

‘Memento’ (2000)

Director: Christopher Nolan

Image via Newmarket Films

If there is one director who has defined the 21st century thus far, it’s Christopher Nolan. Kicking off the new millennium, Nolan uses a short story by his brother, Jonathan Nolan, as inspiration for the exceptional psychological neo-noir thriller Memento. The film tackles the intriguing story of Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce), a man with anterograde amnesia, a condition that causes short-term memory loss and prevents him from forming new memories. Using an elaborate system of photographs, handwritten notes, and tattoos, Leonard attempts to uncover the perpetrator, simply known as “John G,” who killed his wife (Jorja Fox) and caused him to sustain the condition. A sharply intricate film in which black-and-white tells one story moving forward, while color tells the story moving backward, Memento’s alternating timelines collide to create an immersive, cerebral puzzle.

The chronological and reverse chronological storytelling could have been a risky flop, but because Nolan’s painstaking focus and subjective perspective are executed to perfection. The audience is forced to question everything as the timelines converge, leading to a psychological breakdown because they no longer have a trustworthy narrator. Memento is a film to watch multiple times because Nolan’s usage of subtle clues is precisely placed. This is a film that demands attention, and the more closely you watch, the richer the film becomes. At the core of the film, memory, identity, and perception shape every technical choice that leads to Leonard’s psyche. Nolan’s work has been lauded over the past two decades for films like Inception, The Dark Knight, and Oppenheimer, but Memento proved his brilliance.

President Donald Trump’s team reportedly reached out to Ohio Republican leadership earlier this month, requesting a so-called cease fire in public ridicule of Rep. Max Miller amid allegations of domestic abuse.

The White House allegedly contacted Ohio Republicans last week after Trump’s team became convinced that Miller, 37, would not be withdrawing voluntarily from Ohio’s 7th Congressional District race, according to Politico.

The outlet reported on Monday, August 10, that the Trump administration asked the local politicians to stop pressuring Miller to terminate his reelection campaign, claiming that three individuals with “direct knowledge of private conversations” confirmed the correspondence took place.

“They basically told us to back off and let the voters decide,” one Ohio Republican allegedly involved in the conversations told Politico.

Related: Max Miller’s Attorney Issues Apology After Rep Shares Pic of 2-Year-Old Nude

Rep. Max Miller’s attorney, Aaron Minc, is claiming responsibility after the embattled congressman shared a fully nude photograph of his 2-year-old daughter. “Unfortunately, I missed the last three pages of a 40+ page document with sensitive content,” Minc said in a statement to CNN on Tuesday, August 4, issuing an apology for what the lawyer […]

Us has reached out to the White House for comment.

The controversy surrounding Miller began earlier this summer, when his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, accused him of domestic abuse during their marriage. (Moreno filed for divorce in 2024.)

Last month, multiple outlets reported that Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno’s daughter Emily accused Miller of throwing hot water on her body, holding a gun to her head, pushing her with enough force to hurt her and breaking their now-2-year-old daughter’s collarbone.

Miller has vehemently denied the allegations, claiming that his ex-wife is not “all there.”

The congressman has since sued Emily for defamation while remaining committed to his reelection bid.

Related: Sen. Bernie Moreno Claims Rep. Max Miller Is a ‘Danger’ to His Daughter

After refusing to denounce Rep. Max Miller after his own daughter accused the congressman of domestic violence, Sen. Bernie Moreno is calling the politician a “danger” who is unfit for public office. “As a father and husband, I can tell you the last two years have been pure hell for my wife Bridget, our daughter […]

Amid his messy legal battle with Emily, Miller released a Dropbox full of documents via X on August 2, which he claimed was done in hopes of “defending” himself from his ex’s allegations.

The move backfired, however, when the now-public files contained an image of Miller’s 2-year-old daughter fully naked.

Miller’s attorney subsequently took responsibility for the photo making its way onto the internet, apologizing in a statement on August 4.

“Unfortunately, I missed the last three pages of a 40+ page document with sensitive content,” Aaron Minc told CNN at the time. “It was completely unintentional and a mistake. The moment I discovered the issue on Monday morning, I corrected the file immediately.”

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He added, “I am truly sorry to Congressman Miller, Ms. Moreno, both of their families, and, especially, to their daughter. I deeply regret the mistake.”

The photo was part of a February 2025 exchange between Miller and Emily amid a dispute over whether their child was injured on the politician’s watch. The incident was investigated at the time and no charges were filed against the congressman.

Despite Miller’s attorney taking accountability for the mishap, the controversy only drew more negative attention — and caused more public outrage over Miller continuing to hold a public office.

“As he has admitted privately, Max Miller needs serious psychological help,” Sen. Moreno, 59, wrote via X earlier this month after previously not taking a stand on the issue. “He is a danger to my daughter, and I hold my breath every minute he has custody of my granddaughter.”

Related: Eric Swalwell Had Reported Fling With Trump Adviser Stephen Miller’s Wife

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Former congressman Eric Swalwell had a reported fling with President Donald Trump adviser Stephen Miller’s wife, Katie Miller, when she was a 22-year-old intern working on Capitol Hill. A Thursday, August 6, report published by Sources Say News, a popular Capitol Hill blog, revealed the alleged relationship between Swalwell, 45, and Katie, now 34. According […]

He added, “If there are any basic standards of character required to hold elected office, Max Miller fails them. He should not serve in the House of Representatives.”

Miller, meanwhile, vowed to “file my own paperwork for an ethics investigation into myself to clear my name from these horrific attacks on myself and family,” claiming in an X statement, “I have absolutely nothing to hide.”

The House of Ethics has since opened an investigation into Miller in wake of the allegations.

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When it comes to his reelection campaign, Miller had until 4 p.m. on Monday to drop out so party leaders could schedule a meeting to discuss his replacement. Miller did not announce his resignation.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.

If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.

Editor’s note: The below contains minor spoilers for the Ted Lasso Season 4 premiere.

One of the most popular shows of all time is officially back on Apple TV. Ted Lasso appeared to wrap up its run for good in 2023 with what was billed as the third and seemingly final season. However, given the show’s enduring popularity, Apple TV has now brought back the Emmy-winning series for another go. Season 4 premiered last week, reuniting many of our favorite characters and reintroducing the show’s signature charm — but a surprising movie reference in the premiere might leave some fans scratching their heads.

‘Ted Lasso’s Season 4 Return Includes a Fun Quentin Tarantino Easter Egg

When Episode 1 begins, Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) is back in his hometown of Kansas City three years after leaving England. He’s devoted his life to spending time with his son and being the best dad he can be while working as an assistant manager at a grocery store. Ted might not be totally in his element like he was as a soccer coach, but he’s doing the best he can. While Ted is scanning grocery items for a customer in the checkout line, eagle-eyed fans might notice one product in particular that has actually earned a spot in pop culture lore.

Red Apple is a fictional cigarette brand created by the legendary filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, which first appeared in 1994’s seminal classic, Pulp Fiction, when Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis) orders a pack at a bar. Other characters, including Mia Wallace (Uma Thurman) and Ringo (Tim Roth), can be seen smoking the brand. Tarantino has also included his invented brand in other films like Kill Bill: Volume 1, Death Proof, and The Hateful Eight. In Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Tarantino even inserts a Red Apple commercial starring Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) into the action, as well as ensuring that Red Apple is Cliff Booth’s (Brad Pitt) brand of choice throughout the movie. While the brand and its recognizable label have become a signature of Tarantino’s, most Ted Lasso viewers might be a tad stumped about why the two worlds have now crossed over.

‘Ted Lasso’s Tarantino Connection Offers a Hint About Season 4’s Storytelling

Because Tarantino movies and Ted Lasso are so incredibly different in tone and storytelling style, there has been some speculation from viewers about why the Apple TV series decided to include the brand. Tarantino has been quoted as saying that some of his films do take place in a “real universe,” so the cigarettes could serve as a hint that Ted Lasso‘s story exists on that same plane. Fans have also pointed out that there are many Wizard of Oz allusions in the show, so the Red Apple cigarettes could be viewed as a nod to the trees that pop up along Dorothy’s journey.

In reality, a recent interview with Sudeikis confirms that Season 4’s Red Apple reference was intentional, and that the show’s writers did get permission from Tarantino to use the brand. As huge fans of Tarantino’s work, they merely wanted to pay tribute to his movies in a small yet noteworthy way. The Red Apple nod doubles as the perfect way to honor America before Ted travels back across the pond, making the UK his home again. As the season unfolds, it’s unlikely that there will be many more Tarantino references, but any Easter eggs included for the show’s most devoted fans just make watching Ted Lasso all the more fun.

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Ted Lasso

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Release Date

August 14, 2020

Network

Apple TV

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Directors

Declan Lowney, MJ Delaney, Erica Dunton, Matt Lipsey

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Get a rundown of Us‘ top stories making headlines in celebrity news, sports and entertainment on August 11, 2026. Here are the key takeaways:

• Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez tied the knot in a civil ceremony in Cascais, Portugal, on August 11 after nearly 10 years together. The private wedding was attended by their five children.

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• Former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Reece Weaver will make her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago beginning September 7 at the Ambassador Theatre. The six-week limited engagement runs through October 18 and follows her surprise retirement from the iconic DCC squad earlier this year.

• A judge signed off on a plea by order that could allow Joseph and Kendra Duggar‘s child endangerment and false imprisonment charges to be dismissed if they comply with court-approved conditions for one year, Us can confirm. The couple must maintain good behavior, follow legal orders and pay $1,850 in fines and costs, with a review hearing set for August 4, 2027.

Edited by Samantha Benitz. Story produced with AI assistance

Jeans are a closet staple, so why can’t denim dresses hold that same honor? The classic fabric can be styled for all sorts of occasions and makes for a smart summer-to-fall transition. Many denim dress options are also made with stretch, so they’re comfortable for all-day wear and work as easy, everyday staples. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that, while pretty, these pieces are still durable in the washing machine.

Just like any other kind of dress, denim dresses come in mini, midi and maxi silhouettes. Some are sleeveless while others boast prominent sleeves that’ll come in handy when temperatures cool down. We think it’s time for denim to become the star of your outfit, rather than just a part of your bottom half.

13 Denim Dresses for Summer-to-Fall Dressing

1. Our Favorite: With a collar and waist tie, this short-sleeve denim dress has a more polished look. It’s just as easy to pair with heels as it is with boots.

2. Sleek and Sleeveless: Thanks to the darker wash, this sleeveless denim dress doesn’t feel overwhelming. The midi length works for every day, and the thicker straps allow you to wear your regular bra.

3. Bell Babe: The mini length with three-quarter bell sleeves gives this A-line denim dress a retro vibe. Catch us wearing it with sandals through the end of summer and then switching to boots come fall.

4. Everyday Wear: This relaxed denim shirtdress can take you from a casual office to happy hour with ease. And this Madewell style is cinched in the back, so it won’t overwhelm your frame.

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5. Must-Have Maxi: With tiers and a V-neck, this denim maxi dress will be a standout option in your wardrobe. When the occasion calls for something a little more elevated without being too fancy, this will be your go-to.

6. Flowy Find: On days you don’t feel like thinking too hard about your outfit, this flowy short dress will come to the rescue. It has puffed to-the-elbow sleeves, so it can be worn all on its own.

7. Hot Halter: Let your back do the talking in this halter maxi dress. When summer starts winding down, simply throw a cardigan or blazer over it for a versatile style.

8. Fit and Flare: The dark wash really works in this Steven Madden dress that features a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette. The vertical seams up top and pleats on the bottom elongate the body, too.

9. Sweet Cinch: Thanks to the elastic waistband, this short-sleeve denim dress has a nice balance between being flowy and structured. It comes in long-sleeve options, too!

10. Plus-Size Pick: This fit-and-flare Walmart find is available in sizes 0X to 5X. The sleeveless design and midi length mean you can style it in so many ways, too.

11. Collared Cutie: Denim feels a bit more polished with a collar, and that’s what you’ll get with this mini short-sleeved option. Now you just have to decide between the light and dark washes.

12. Dark Wash: From far away, someone might not even be able to tell that this three-quarter-sleeve denim dress is, well, denim. And the cutesy collar brings it all together for a more structured option.

13. Buttoned Beauty: If there is one denim dress that we’d say works for the office, it’s this midi button-up pick. It is more fitted and has a small slit in the front, making it easy to walk in.

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Heels aren’t the only way to fake longer-looking legs. The right dress silhouette can completely change your proportions, creating the illusion of extra height while keeping you cool and comfortable through the hottest days of summer. That’s why we went on a hunt to pull rich-looking styles that pair perfectly with even your favorite sandals. […]

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Stronger every day. Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez‘s love for one another has guided them through even their biggest challenges.

The couple were first linked two years after the former Manchester United player‘s 2015 split from Irina Shayk. Ronaldo was already the father of son Cristiano Jr., born in 2010, before sparking his high-profile romances. (He has stated that he will never publicly reveal the identity of his child’s mother.)

When Ronaldo and Rodríguez attended their first event as a couple in January 2017 — the Best FIFA Football Awards in Germany — they were accompanied by the athlete’s son. The pair later reflected on the beginning of their relationship in Netflix’s I Am Georgina, which debuted in January 2022.

“We had a very special start to our relationship,” Rodríguez, who was working in a Gucci store when she met her beau, told the cameras. “Many times he’d come after work. He [came], I remember once, in a Bugatti. My coworkers went crazy. They get there on the bus, and I would leave in a Bugatti. I mean, people couldn’t believe it.”

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The Portugal native chimed in: “It was funny because I would wait for her outside the store in these flashy cars I have. … We would go home, and there we would go into our own world.”

In August 2026, the couple made their love story official when they got married during a civil ceremony in Cascais, Portugal.

Scroll down for a look back at Ronaldo and Rodríguez’s love story:

Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert’s son Tyler Boebert allegedly used the N-word in a series of text messages prior to his recent arrest in connection to an ongoing child sexual exploitation case.

According to an arrest affidavit obtained by TMZ on Tuesday, August 11, Tyler, 21, allegedly filmed a sex tape in 2024. At the time, Tyler was 18 while his then-girlfriend, who has remained unnamed, was 17 and two weeks away from her 18th birthday. The outlet reported that the allegedly sexually explicit video was recently sent to the girl’s ex-boyfriend.

The girl went to the police, claiming she was unsure of how her ex received the video and if others had obtained it as well, per the outlet.

According to the outlet, investigators obtained a series of text messages Tyler allegedly sent to others. Tyler allegedly sent the video to a person, writing, “Just for you” with a winking emoji.

In an additional alleged message to another person, Tyler casually dropped the N-word after the unidentified person accused him of making “people miserable.”

“You were worst [sic] than me. You had n***** waiting at the driveway while with me,” Tyler allegedly wrote back.

The person responded using the N-word as well and Tyler retorted, “Free speech yo. Literally love America.”

Us has reached out to Tyler’s lawyer for comment.

Tyler was arrested on Sunday, August 9, in Garfield County, Colorado, on five felony charges for alleged sexual exploitation of a child. The arrest was related to an alleged incident in January 2024 when he was 18 years old. Tyler’s charges include child sexual exploitation of a child to induce or entice, sexual exploitation of a child, possession with intent, sexual exploitation of a child involving video and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Tyler’s bond was set at $10,000 and he was released on Sunday. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, August 19.

Related: Haley Beck Sent Explicit Sexual Messages to Student: Read the Texts

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Influencer and Baywatch star Noah Beck’s older sister Haley Beck allegedly exchanged explicit text messages about oral sex with a high school student before she was fired from her teaching job. Haley, 27, was placed on administrative leave from Centennial High School in 2025 as the Peoria Unified investigated accusations that she groomed a minor. […]

Lauren, 39, addressed her son’s recent legal issues one day after his arrest.

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“I love my son,” the congresswoman told the Denver Post on Monday, August 10. “We take these allegations very seriously and pray for everyone affected during this challenging time.”

This isn’t the first time Tyler has experienced a run-in with the law. Two years ago, he was arrested in connection to multiple vehicle trespasses and property thefts. In February 2024, Tyler and multiple of his friends were accused of breaking into cars and stealing debit cards, gift cards and cash. He was initially facing 22 felony and misdemeanor charges but ultimately pleaded guilty to one count of attempted identity theft.

If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.

Ashley Benson is clearly a pro when it comes to packing for a French getaway. Between breezy dresses, designer bags and effortless jewelry, every look from her trip to Saint-Tropez struck the perfect balance of polished and unfussy. But it wasn’t her Chanel bag or lace slip dress that caught our attention — it was the chic jelly flats that quietly tied her outfit together.

The Pretty Little Liars alum recently shared photos from her family vacation, showing off a black lace slip dress styled with a quilted shoulder bag and clear jelly ballet flats that seemed straight off the runway. However, her shoes weren’t actually a splurge — Benson wore the Steve Madden Grove Ballet Flats, which are hiding on Amazon for just $49.

Get the Steve Madden Grove Ballet Flat for $49 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The clear jelly flats are the kind of shoe that instantly makes a summer wardrobe feel more current. The translucent design pairs with almost anything, from linen dresses and tailored shorts to relaxed denim and breezy maxis. The modern square toe also keeps this shoe looking elevated instead of overly playful. If clear isn’t quite your style, the same pick is also available in red, tortoiseshell, blue and several other colors in sizes 5 through 12.

Related: Love Katie Holmes’ Red Tote? Get the Look for Just $18

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Katie Holmes has a knack for making even the simplest accessories feel like the only thing worth shopping. Whether she’s grabbing coffee, running errands or heading across town, the actress always seems to find one standout piece that quietly steals the show. This time, it’s a roomy cherry red tote that instantly makes every neutral […]

These flats just as practical as they are stylish, too. The slip-on silhouette makes them easy to throw on before heading out the door, while the airy jelly cage design feels vacation-ready. With a subtle 0.25-inch heel, the shoe adds just enough lift without sacrificing comfort. One shopper called them “so comfortable and so cute,” adding they’re perfect to “wear to either a dinner or just to run errands” and fit true to size.

Another reviewer admitted they were hesitant to try jelly shoes again after remembering uncomfortable pairs from high school, but quickly changed their mind, writing, “boy am I glad I did . . . [they’re] so comfy and still stylish.” One person even admitted that they’re already on their second pair, since the flats “don’t cut in or hurt your feet at all,” adding, “I’ll probably get a third pair. They are just so whimsical.”

Whether you’re planning your own seaside escape or simply want shoes that make everyday outfits feel a little more fashion-forward, Benson’s exact jelly flats are an easy way to capture her vacation style — without spending designer money.

Get the Steve Madden Grove Ballet Flat for $49 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more from Steve Madden here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

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Related: Eva Longoria’s Confidence-Boosting Bikini Look Never Goes Out of Style

If there’s one swimsuit style that’s classic, simple and chic, it’s the classic triangle bikini, and Eva Longoria was spotted wearing the confidence-boosting look while on vacation. Her two-piece swimsuit reminded Us why some trends never lose their appeal, earning a permanent place in summer wardrobes everywhere. You don’t need a celebrity budget to recreate […]

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More than four decades after attempting to assassinate President Ronald Reagan, John Hinckley Jr. has a message for Jodie Foster, the woman he was trying to impress at the time. Hinckley became obsessed with the actress after watching her in the 1976 film “Taxi Driver,” ultimately carrying out the 1981 shooting in an attempt to gain her attention.

John Hinckley Jr. became infamous for his assassination attempt at President Ronald Reagan in 1981, all to impress a young Jodie Foster. The 71-year-old is reflecting on his past in a rare interview, and he has a message for the actress.

“I just wish Jodie Foster well, you know. I don’t really see her movies, but I wish her well, and I know she’s doing quite well. And that’s all I can say is just, I wish Jodie well, and I hope she has a good life,” Hinckley said in a preview clip of an episode of “The Mark Joseph Show,” per Entertainment Weekly.

Hinckley had been obsessed with Foster for several months before the shooting and even relocated to Connecticut upon learning that the actress was enrolled at Yale University. He repeatedly attempted to contact her, sending letters and poems that he slipped under her door.

Foster, who was 18 at the time, rejected his advances and set firm boundaries.

The Shooter Wanted To Have A ‘Union’ With The Actress

During the interview, Hinckley was asked what his intended outcome of the assassination was. Noting he was “delusional” at the time of the incident, he said he wanted to “have a union” with the actress and live the rest of his life with her.

Joseph argued that he would have known that prison was a possibility, but Hinckley said in his mind, Foster would be with him, wherever that may be. “I wasn’t sure if I was gonna be in jail or the hospital or what after things settled down. I had this notion that she was gonna join me wherever I was,” he said.

Moreover, he shared that Foster could also have been his target, but said “fate” had other plans, and Reagan became his intended target instead.

Inside The 1981 Attempted Assassination Of Ronald Reagan

On March 30, 1981, Reagan was at the Washington Hilton Hotel to deliver a speech to a labor union group. As the president exited the hotel and walked to his awaiting limousine, Hinckley opened fire. One bullet ricocheted off the armor plate on the presidential vehicle and hit Reagan, puncturing his lung and narrowly missing his heart.

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Three other people were injured, including the press secretary, a Secret Service agent, and a police officer. Reagan was rushed to a hospital where he underwent emergency surgery.

In 1982, Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Psychiatric experts testified that he had major depression and was diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, and narcissistic traits.

He was sent to a psychiatric facility where he underwent long-term treatment. He was released from the hospital under strict supervision in 2016, and restrictions were fully lifted in 2022.

Hinckley Wrote A Final Letter To Jodie Foster Before The Shooting

Young Jodie Foster pic.twitter.com/JKfcCruvtO

— – (@xxxx90s) March 15, 2016

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FBI agents discovered a letter the shooter wrote to Foster before the attempted assassination. It was never sent, however, and was left in his hotel room. He told her his plan “to get Reagan” and confessed his undying love for her.

Hinckley said that he left “dozens of poems, letters and love messages,” hoping Foster would like him in return, but said he never approached her directly because he was shy and didn’t want to be bothersome. He took comfort in the fact that the actress, at least, knew his name and his feelings for her.

“At least you know that I’ll always love you. Jodie, I would abandon the idea of getting Reagan in a second if I could only win your heart and live out the rest of my life with you, whether it be in total obscurity or whatever,” he wrote.

Hinckley said Foster was the reason for the assassination, as he wanted to “impress” her, and he was willing to sacrifice his freedom or his life to change the actress’ mind about him. He signed off, writing, “I love you forever.”

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John Hinckley Jr.’s Theory About Jodie Foster

In January, shortly after the release of his memoir, Hinckley shared his theory about Foster, saying that his obsession and assassination attempt on Reagan deeply traumatized the actress, that she no longer wanted to be with men and became a lesbian, as The Blast previously reported.

Foster addressed her sexuality publicly in 2013 at the Golden Globe Awards, saying that she already came out to her family and close friends “about a thousand years ago.”

The actress has rarely talked about Hinckley in the years since the attempted assassination.

Brooks Nader has come under fire after being spotted topless during an outing with her sister, Sarah Jane Nader, and their parents, Breaux and Holland Nader.

The move has sparked heavy debate among fans, with many slamming the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model for going as far as ditching her top in front of her dad, Breaux, who seemed unfazed in a viral video clip.

This comes as Brooks Nader prepares to star in the upcoming reboot of the ’90s hit series, “Baywatch,” which she recently claimed made her lose interest in her signature string bikinis.

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Brooks has found herself at the center of heated debate after a video of her without a top while relaxing with family members, including her dad, Breaux, went viral on social media.

The clip in question features a braless Brooks next to her sister and parents on Sunday, August 9, during a boat trip through Sardinia, Italy.

The model was not entirely in the buff, as she had on white crochet bottoms, which she accessorized with a diamond necklace and earrings.

Showcasing her natural beauty, Brooks went completely makeup-free for the outing, per reports, while wearing her blonde locks in an updo style.

At some point in the video, her dad could be seen sitting next to her on the boat, looking completely unfazed by his daughter’s bold outfit choice, a move that has also raised eyebrows online.

See the video clip here.

The SI Cover Star Has Come Under Scrutiny

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Social media was quick to call out Brooks Nader, with many fixating on the fact that her father was also with her during her topless display, instead of just her mother and sister.

One critic noted, “Being topless in front of your family IS weird wtf are ppl talking about,” while another said, “Topless in front of a dad or brother is strange idc if it’s Europe or not.”

“Mom and sister is one thing, but the dad and brother is crazy,” a third individual noted about Brooks’ outing with her family.

Another said, “Being naked in front of ANY family member like this is weird. I will change in front of my sister, but I’m not hanging out on the water naked with my whole family, including my dad… weird asf.”

“Her father and brother should definitely see an issue in this and not be okay with it. Her family shouldn’t want to see her like that???? Anyone defending this is weird af no joke,” one more person commented.

Brooks Nader Received A Lot Of Support Over Her Topless Display

Amid the scrutiny, Brooks also received a lot of support for going topless in front of her sister and parents, with many noting that it was a regular thing to see in Europe.

The incident also sparked a broader discussion regarding the contrasting cultural perceptions of nudity in Europe versus the United States, with many branding Americans “prudish.”

A supporter said, “To us prude Americans, this looks inappropriate, but I assure you that in European culture, this is normal.”

Another said, “Europeans don’t think of nudity the way that we do. Being topless is no big deal to the rest of the world.”

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“It’s not weird to have boobs; people have just normalized hiding them. Why can guys take their shirts off if women can’t?” a third TikTok user asked.

One more noted, “This is normal behavior in Europe. Americans are too uptight about nudity.”

The Model Recently Opened Up About Starring In ‘Baywatch’ Reboot

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Although Brooks Nader’s casting in the upcoming “Baywatch” reboot caught some fans off guard, the model feels the role was actually years in the making.

In a recent interview, she recalled selecting a specific red one-piece swimsuit during her Sports Illustrated cover shoot simply because it reminded her so much of the iconic beach series.

That intuitive wardrobe choice ultimately made the final cover, creating what she describes as a full-circle experience where a long-held dream turned into reality.

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Brooks noted that spending more time living in Los Angeles also helped her manifest the opportunity, as immersing herself in the city made her feel deeply connected to the show’s legacy.

“I don’t know, I feel like I have been hoping for that one for a really long time, and it finally came true,” the model said of the project.

Brooks Nader Admits She’s Done With String Bikinis After Starring In ‘Baywatch’

To prepare for her upcoming role, Brooks made some interesting changes to her wardrobe by replacing her signature bikinis with one-piece swimsuits.

She told Page Six that she is now “100% into one-pieces,” sharing her particular fondness for Tropic of C, a sustainable swimwear label celebrated for its eco-friendly aesthetics.

Even prior to her official screen debut, the model has been displaying the style at high-profile events. At a recent Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show, she debuted a black one-piece designed with a striking thong back.

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Later, at that same event, she joined fellow models for a photograph while wearing a red one-piece, which she accessorized with a wide white belt.