Reality star Lisa Vanderpump is no stranger to Las Vegas. With multiple restaurants on the Strip, she’s now leveling up to something new and exciting – hotel owner. 

Her first-ever signature hotel is set to open its doors to the public in May. What was once The Cromwell, will reopen as The Vanderpump Hotel after renovations are completed, and you can now book your stay for May or later. 

This 188-room boutique property, designed alongside her design partner Nick Alain, will feature a luxe, glam-infused aesthetic with moss-green tones, dusty lilac accents, mixed metals, and reflective finishes for an elevated and seductive feel only Vanderpump can bring.

The “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” alum is personally curating in-room amenities and putting all the finishing touches on everything from the rooms to the casino floor, promising a one-of-a-kind, high-style stay in the heart of Sin City. 

The Vanderpump Hotel Is Now Taking Reservations

The countdown is on! The Vanderpump Hotel is now accepting reservations for May and beyond!

Transforming the iconic Cromwell into a boutique hotel, the property sits at the bustling corner of Flamingo Road and the Las Vegas Strip. And since Vanderpump is fully involved in every detail, it promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience for guests. 

With 188 rooms and suites crafted by Vanderpump and Alain, this hotel is a complete luxe experience that’s inviting, relaxing, and memorable. 

“Taking the next step from restaurateur to hotelier and partnering once again with Caesars Entertainment on another extraordinary project has been such an exciting chapter for me,” Vanderpump said, according to a press release sent to The Blast. “Our vision was to create a room that feels like a true retreat, a calming escape just steps from the energy and excitement of the casino floor. The guest rooms are as beautiful as they are serene.”

The Reality Star’s Signature Aesthetic Will Be Featured Throughout The Hotel

Beyond the guest rooms, Vanderpump is bringing her signature style to every corner of the hotel, including the reception area, gaming floor, brand-new lounge, and other public spaces.

The property will feature custom furnishings and lighting crafted exclusively by Vanderpump and Alain’s renowned design brand, Vanderpump Alain. And fans of Vanderpump will notice personal touches from her – from attention to detail to her cheeky British humor. 

“Lisa’s passion for creating unforgettable destinations is unmatched, and it’s exciting to see her continuing to make her mark on Las Vegas with a boutique hotel that now bears her name,” said Sean McBurney, Chief Commercial Officer and Regional President of Caesars Entertainment. “Lisa has proven how distinctively she can transform a space with each restaurant she opens, and The Vanderpump Hotel builds on that vision in an entirely new way. Guests from around the world will soon be able to experience her signature style, elegant taste and meticulous design detail through a hotel experience unlike anything else on The Strip.”

Lisa Vanderpump Is Not New To The Vegas Entertainment Scene

While being in the hotel business is new to the reality star, she’s far from new to the entertainment scene in Sin City. She’s opened multiple restaurants with Caesars, both in Vegas and outside of Vegas. 

In March 2019, she opened Vanderpump Cocktail Garden at Caesars Palace. She followed that up with Vanderpump à Paris at Paris Las Vegas in April 2022. In December 2024, she opened Pinky’s by Vanderpump at Flamingo Las Vegas. 

She also opened WOLF by Vanderpump at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe in April 2024 and WOLF by Vanderpump at Caesars Republic in Scottsdale in December 2025. 

The Vanderpump Hotel Now Has An Instagram Page

Just one day old, The Vanderpump Hotel’s Instagram page is already grabbing tons of attention. More than 20,000 followers are already keeping tabs on what’s to come with the new hotel.

With about 10 posts already, it’s well on its way to attracting more followers.

One post shows what the outside of the hotel will look like once renovations are all complete. One viewer shared, “It looks stunning from the outside, I can only imagine what the inside looks like. With LVP’S design it will be incredible.” Another said, “I cannot wait to stay here!! I hope Lisa happens to visit when I’m here.”

Another IG Video Teases The Vibe Of The Vanderpump Hotel

The pinned post on the page gives a sneak peek of the glamorous party vibes the hotel will have once it opens its door to the public in May.

“My darlings, the wait is almost over! The Vanderpump Hotel is now accepting reservations starting with May arrivals! Follow @thevanderpumphotel for updates as construction continues!” the caption reads.

Many viewers are really excited about the hotel and plan to book a stay, including some of the hotel’s neighbors.

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The Vegas IG page wrote, “This feels very meant to be.” Nearby neighbor on the Strip, Planet Hollywood, shared a glittery gif to express excitement for the new property. Caesars Palace wrote, “Welcome, neighbor.” Gordon Ramsey shared, “Can’t wait to see x.”

One viewer simply said, “Booked!” and another wrote, “*books immediately*.”

Jay-Z is opening up about how his teenage daughter, Blue Ivy, was an unexpected support system for him during the rape case that threatened to drag his name through the mud. 

After enduring a year marked by intense scrutiny and emotional heartbreak, the business mogul is finally opening up about the toll the experience took on his mental well-being.

The singer was dragged into a lawsuit that accused him of raping a minor with Sean Diddy Combs, who is currently serving time for prostitution-related crimes. 

Jay-Z Reflects On The Lawsuit And Blue Ivy’s Reaction

In a candid interview with GQ, Jay-Z described 2025 as an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking year due to a high-profile lawsuit that left him feeling “uncontrollable anger.”

He expressed frustration with the modern era of “instant” accusations, noting that there was once a time when people had to be “super sure” before making such serious claims. 

“That whole [lawsuit thing], that sh-t took a lot out of me. I was angry. I haven’t been that angry in a long time,” he said. 

Despite the pain, the rapper refused to settle the case, even though it would have been cheaper and quicker, because he believed the truth would eventually reign supreme. The emotional weight of the situation was compounded by the fact that the allegations were released on the night of his daughter Blue Ivy’s movie premiere. 

While he initially questioned whether he should even attend the red carpet to avoid overshadowing her moment, his family’s tight-knit nature ultimately brought them together. Jay-Z revealed he was moved to tears when 13-year-old Blue Ivy showed her support by wearing a jersey with his name on the back to school.

“Blue has this jersey with ‘Jay-Z’ on the back. She put it on one day. She went to school with the ‘Jay’ [points to his back]. I was just in the corner, like tears coming down,” he recalled. 

He further noted that it was touching to see such support from his loved ones even during his “darkest” moments. 

Jay-Z Slammed The Lawsuit, Tagging It A ‘Blackmail Attempt’

The raw emotional vulnerability Jay-Z showed stemmed from the conflict, which originally ignited in 2024 when a series of explosive allegations threatened to dismantle his reputation. 

In December 2024, Jay-Z formally addressed a civil lawsuit that named him as an accomplice to Diddy in the alleged 2000 assault of a 13-year-old girl. Represented by Texas lawyer Tony Buzbee, the unidentified “Jane Doe” plaintiff refiled the claim, which Jay-Z immediately labeled a “blackmail attempt” aimed at forcing a settlement. 

In a lengthy online statement, the rapper declared he would not give “one red penny” to what he described as a fraudulent effort to exploit public scrutiny, per The Blast.

He challenged the attorney to file a criminal complaint instead of a civil one, arguing that if such a heinous crime had occurred, the perpetrator should be locked away rather than sued for money.

Jay-Z Was Worried About The Impact The Lawsuit Would Have On His Family

In addition to the legal strategy, Jay-Z also expressed worry over the impact these claims would have on his family and children. 

In his initial statement, the rapper made it clear that while he was ready to fight for his reputation, his “only heartbreak” was for his wife, Beyoncé, and their three children. 

The businessman described it as “unfair” for them to have to process the degrees of malice that he believes were intended to destroy his family’s spirit. He was particularly concerned for his eldest daughter, Blue Ivy, who was at an age where her peers would inevitably see the headlines and ask difficult questions. 

Why Jay-Z And Beyoncé Made A Public Appearance Amid The Rape Allegations

Amid the explosive allegations, Jay-Z and Beyoncé made a high-profile public appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of “Mufasa: The Lion King” to support their eldest daughter. 

According to The Blast, reports surfaced suggesting that Beyoncé was the driving force behind the family’s decision to attend the premiere of the film, which featured both her and Blue Ivy. 

The singer reportedly felt it was vital for the family to face the accusations “head-on” rather than retreating from the spotlight.

To navigate the intense public scrutiny, the Carter family reportedly worked with a specialized crisis strategist. This professional guidance shaped their “confrontational” approach, advising them to remain visible and vocal rather than silent.

The Claims Against Jay-Z Were Eventually Dismissed

The Carter family’s decision to face the crisis head-on reached a definitive conclusion in February 2025 when the legal battle finally ended in a total withdrawal of the claims.

According to The Blast, a New York filing confirmed that the anonymous accuser voluntarily dismissed the action with prejudice, meaning the case can never be refiled in its current form. 

Jay-Z’s entertainment company, Roc Nation, issued a formal statement shortly after, labeling the dismissal a “victory.”

Despite the favorable outcome, Jay-Z lamented the lasting trauma inflicted on his wife, children, and loved ones, stating that their pain “can never be dismissed.”

He criticized the legal system for allowing what he called a “money grab.” The rapper also argued that while the courts must protect true victims, they have an equal ethical responsibility to protect the innocent from false accusations.

Alix Earle is opening up about a challenging period in her life, and how much things have changed since then. In a recent TikTok video, the influencer took fans back to this time last year, revealing she’s been having “flashbacks” to a moment when her career and personal life felt completely up in the air. Now, Alix Earle is sharing what really went down behind the scenes, and how she’s finally finding her footing again.

Alix Earle Reflects On Podcast Drama And Rumored Fallout With Alex Cooper

At the center of that difficult period was her podcast, “Hot Mess with Alix Earle,” which was unexpectedly put on pause. “I just keep getting flashbacks to being here this time last year,” Earle said in the March 20 video. “This is right when I stopped my podcast, on pause for a second.”

The podcast’s hiatus came after reports surfaced that it had been dropped from Alex Cooper’s “Unwell Network,” fueling speculation about a possible fallout between the two.

Earle Reveals She Was On The Phone With Lawyers Amid Podcast Drama

Earle didn’t hold back when describing just how chaotic things got behind the scenes. “Basically, it was kind of, like, in a mode of, ‘What am I doing?’ I really wanted to try out vlogs, so I’m pretty sure this vlog and then Miami Music Week was my first vlog I put out,” the influencer added.

At the time, she was juggling personal commitments while simultaneously dealing with professional uncertainty. “We were watching my sister compete last year, and then I was in the corner on the phone with lawyers trying to figure out what’s going on,” she said.

Alix Earle Reflects On Feeling ‘Lost’ Before Turning A Corner

Now, with some distance from the situation, Earle says her perspective has completely shifted. “I just felt pretty lost, unsure of what was going on,” she said. “And now I look back at that time and I’m like, I forgot that that was even a thing I went through. So it’s really crazy what time can do.”

These days, Earle says she’s in a much healthier headspace. “I’ve been feeling a lot better and a lot more like myself again, just at least compared to last month,” she shared.

Earle Teases ‘Really Big Week’ Amid Mystery Project

While reflecting on the past, Earle also teased what’s next. She hinted at a major new project tied to a mysterious social media account, which has already gained significant traction in just a matter of days.

“If anyone else is going through a weird time, this too shall pass,” she said before signing off. “We have a really big week ahead. Everyone will know what the f-ck Alix is doing.”

Alix Earle Gets Real About Anxiety And Medication

Earle has also opened up about her mental health journey and offered candid insight for fans navigating similar struggles. During a YouTube vlog, the influencer responded to a fan who admitted they deal with anxiety but feel hesitant about starting medication. Instead of dodging the topic, Earle shared her own experience.

“What I did do was go on medication. … I’ve been on 10 milligrams of Lexapro since [I was] 14,” Earle said. “I was so reluctant to do it at first. I was like, ‘There’s no way, I don’t need that.’ But it really did help me.”

Earle also acknowledged that the decision isn’t always easy, noting the stigma that can sometimes surround mental health treatment. “Taking medication can feel really scary, and there feels like there’s like a stigma around it at times,” Earle added. “I am in favor of it, but I’m also not a doctor, so I’m not going to really tell you what to do,” she concluded.

Earle Opens Up About Panic Attacks

@alixearle

Hope this helps anyone who struggles with anxiety 🫶🏼

♬ original sound – Alix Earle

She has also spoken honestly about experiencing a panic attack while attending the U.S. Open in New York City.

“I had a little panic attack which I really haven’t had in a while,” she said in a video in 2023. “I’m literally on the floor of the bathroom in the suite. I thought I was going to go home, I thought I was going to have to call 911, I felt like I couldn’t breathe.”

“No. 1, and I know this is super hard, but I like to tell someone that I don’t feel good, that I’m having anxiety,” she added. “For example, here I’m with my friend Christian. I was like ‘Christian, I’m having really bad anxiety right now. We need to go to the bathroom.”

“It helps to have someone there, you know, that if something does happen to you they’ll be be able to get help or do something,” she continued.

One thing about Steph Curry, he loves him some Ayesha Curry! On Monday (March 23), the NBA baller reminded the world how much his wife means to him with a sweet message honoring her 37th birthday. She later thanked him for the birthday love. And while she appeared appreciative of his words, social media users were poppin’ off with hot takes about Mrs. Curry and their marriage.

RELATED: Killer Mike Finally Speaks After Steph Curry Clocked Him For Viral Reaction To Video Dissing Ayesha (WATCH)

Steph Curry Brags About Ayesha On Her 37th Birthday

Curry took to at least two of his social platforms, Instagram and Threads, to shout out his queen! He penned a paragraph in his caption about her contributions to his and their family’s greatness.

“Happy birthday to the one that makes this whole thing work! This past year has been one of my favorites. The determination to go after what you want. The grind and work behind the scenes. Stepping into new versions of you with courage that inspires me every day. I love it all,” Steph Curry wrote.

He added, “You don’t play when it comes to our family. Our kids know you always show up and have their back no matter what. With the biggest heart I know. We are lucky and We love you!”

Meanwhile, the post included multiple photos of Ayesha—solo, selfies with him and photos their four kids. The first picture in his IG post shows her hugging a bouquet of pink flowers and greenery, but it’s unclear if they were a birthday gift.

Ayesha Curry Reacts To Birthday Wishes From Her Husband & Loved Ones

Steph wasn’t the only person flooding his wife with birthday love on Monday. On her Instagram Stories, she reposted his post, highlighting a picture of them walking on an airport tarmac. In Jamaican Patois, she wrote, “Mi love yuh bad yuh see,” which loosely translates to “I love you so much, you know!” in English. Ayesha’s mom, Carol, is Jamaican.

Social Media Shares Mixed Reactions To Steph Curry’s Message, While Her Mom Defends Her

One day after his wife’s birthday post, the comment section was loaded with over 4,300 reactions. Even celebs, like Lindsay Lohan and Nina Westbrook, dropped birthday wishes.

However, not everyone stepped in with the sweet energy Steph presented. In fact, some of the comments had harsh words for Mrs. Curry, highlighting podcast comments she’s previously made about being married to one of the greatest NBA players ever.

@thatboycrazyyyy wrote, “The only [shot] Curry missed.”

“She’s not for you bro,” @flexx__y commented.

“Despite all this she still want out 😂,” @tife31905 added.

“I love you bro I don’t think she the one for you gang fr,” @realbandupfresh said.

@wit.j20 commented, “Nahh we ain’t forget.” 

“You deserve better gang,” @keyonji1 weighed in.

“She bouta slander his name again soon lol,” @iz90744_ commented.

“Blink twice bro we gotchu,” @zaymusician wrote.

“We ain’t forget shorty but happy gday I guess,” @4lorday._ added.

@cory__brennan said, “Idk who’s worse for this man’s life. Her or podz 😂.” 

@lumpallday commented, “You can see the slime in her face.” 

“Cmon Steph. You gotta let her go,” @brandenftp wrote.

“Shawty ain’t een comment onna post Steph idk man,” @ijustwannaberich_3way added.

“You deserve better king🤧💯,” @sayiiwont_ weighed in.

But while hardcore fans slammed the post, Ayesha’s mom, Carol, stopped by to defend her daughter.

“Happy birthday to my first born you look amazing. You’re always top notch. I love you with all my heart. I hope you have an amazing day today and watch out for the trolls. There are just too many ignorant people in this world and thank God you’re not one of them. I love you with all my heart. Have a great great day.!!❤️❤️❤️❤️,” Carol (@jamaicanglamma) commented.

RELATED: Sheesh! Resurfaced Clips Of Ayesha Curry’s Interviews Have The Internet Cuttin’ Up With Thoughts On Her Marriage To Steph Curry (VIDEOS)

Denise Richards is embracing a fresh chapter, but it hasn’t come without emotional and personal complications. 

The actress recently revealed the results of a full facelift, a decision tied closely to a turbulent period in her life. 

While the transformation has given her renewed confidence, it has also stirred tension within her family and unfolded against the backdrop of a difficult divorce, making her journey about far more than just appearances.

Denise Richards Underwent Full Facelift Amid Personal Struggles

Richards underwent a full facelift eight months ago, performed by Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Ben Talei, and the results have now been revealed through striking before-and-after images. 

The transformation comes at a time when the actress has been navigating a highly public and emotionally draining divorce from Aaron Phypers.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, an insider revealed the procedure was deeply personal and tied to her desire to reclaim some joy amid the turmoil. 

The source shared that Richards felt her personal life had been suffering and wanted to do something uplifting for herself.

“She is very happy that she made the move last year because she feels beautiful,” the source said, describing the facelift as a “rare bright light” during an otherwise difficult period. 

The ongoing divorce has reportedly taken a toll on her both emotionally and financially, making the decision feel like a form of self-care rather than vanity.

“She deserves to have a little joy in her life and her new face makes her very happy,” the insider added. 

Richards’ Daughters Initially Pushed Back On Her Decision

Despite her confidence in the procedure, Richards faced resistance at home. 

Her eldest daughters, Sami and Lola, whom she shares with Charlie Sheen, were not initially supportive of her choice. 

The actress admitted they felt she was “too young” to undergo such surgery and worried about the risks involved.

Speaking about their reaction to Allure Magazine, the 55-year-old explained, “My oldest daughters were not happy that I was doing it. But I think now they understand, and they see that I still look like me.”

She acknowledged their concerns were rooted in care, adding, “I think they were just worried, in general, of [me] having surgery. They were telling me I didn’t need it. I was too young.”

Still, Richards stood firm in her decision, telling them, “this is something that I want to do for me,” while asking for their support even if they didn’t agree.

Denise Richards Revisits Old Family Tensions Over Cosmetic Procedures

The conversation around Richards’ facelift also reopened an earlier disagreement with her daughter Sami. 

The two had previously clashed when Sami wanted a nose job, and Richards had expressed hesitation at the time.

Reflecting on that moment, the model revealed her daughter reminded her of the situation, saying, “Mom, you did not want me to get a nose job.”

Richards defended her perspective, explaining, Sami was only 20 years old at the time and getting a nose job would change her looks. 

She emphasized that her own procedure was different, noting, “For me, he’s just putting things back where they were. I’m not trying to change the way I look; I’m just trying to put things back.”

Despite the disagreement, Richards acknowledged her daughter’s feelings and tried to reassure her, even complimenting her appearance and her resemblance to her father.

Richards Opens Up About The Reality Of Her Transformation

Richards has been candid about both the physical and emotional aspects of her facelift. Before the procedure, she had heavier eyelids, visible wrinkles, and a downturned lip. Afterward, the changes were noticeable, featuring lighter eyelids, smoother skin, and a more balanced look.

She admitted the decision was not easy, saying, “I was terrified. Being in the public eye since my 20s, people know what I look like – a facelift is not something that I could hide.”

Richards also clarified that while she had undergone breast augmentation at 19 and revision surgeries later on, this marked her first facial cosmetic procedure. 

Reflecting on the outcome, she described the transformation as “It is night and day” and added, “It’s shocking, actually.”

Interestingly, she noted that her openness encouraged other celebrities to share their own experiences privately, though she declined to name anyone.

Denise Richards’ Facelift Drama Unfolds Amid Divorce And Legal Battles

Richards’ cosmetic journey has been overshadowed by her ongoing divorce from Aaron Phypers, who filed in July 2025 after six years of marriage. 

The split has played out publicly, with legal and financial tensions continuing to mount.

The actress revealed that her ex exposed her facelift before she had the chance to speak about it herself. “Going through my divorce, my ex [Aaron Phypers] disclosed that I’d had a facelift,” she said, adding that he even arranged for a photographer to capture her during a follow-up appointment. 

Richards then pushed back against claims that the procedure was unsuccessful, calling the suggestion that  it was “botched” “really ridiculous.”

The legal battle has also included financial rulings. As The Blast reported in February, a judge ordered Richards to pay Phypers $5,000 per month in temporary spousal support and contribute $30,000 toward his legal fees. The payments were itemized to cover rent, a car, food, and other expenses.

Meanwhile, Richards’ legal team argued that supporting him was unfair, especially given that she had previously been granted a restraining order against him. 

Her lawyer stated, per the Daily Mail, “Victims of abuse shouldn’t be required to support their abuser,” while the opposing side noted that Phypers has not been convicted of the charges he faces.

As the legal proceedings continue, Richards has reflected on the past year as one of major emotional upheaval, describing it as a time of “letting go [and] truths being exposed,” while also expressing gratitude for the clarity it has brought.

A Florida man has been arrested after police allege he exposed and then touched himself in front of three teen girls while in a sauna on a Celebrity cruise ship.

An arrest affidavit from the Broward Sheriff’s Office stated that Michael Henry Mullis was charged with two counts of indecent exposure in the incidents that took place on the Celebrity Eclipse ship on Saturday, March 21, according to NBC Miami.

A 17-year-old and a 16-year-old told investigators that Mullis, 39, exposed himself and started masturbating as he sat on the top bench in the sauna, per the affidavit.

Another incident took place that same day when a 19-year-old employee claimed he saw Mullis in the sauna. The employee told investigators that Mullis allegedly took off all of his clothing before he covered himself with a towel.

Related: 2 Arrested After Allegedly Taking 14-Year-Old to Florida Strip Club

Two people have been arrested after they allegedly took a 14-year-old boy to a strip club in Jacksonville, Florida, and posted footage of the child online. Ricky Clark and Aylin Poorhamzeh were arrested in late January and early February after they were accused of taking the child to Passions Gentlemen’s Club in Jacksonville back in […]

“Do you mind if I stroke my d**k?” Mullis allegedly asked the teenager, according to the affidavit.

After the reports were made against him, ship security took Mullis into custody. He was then transported to Broward’s main jail.

It is not currently clear if Mullis has entered a plea or retained legal representation following his arrest. The Broward Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us Weekly’s request for comment regarding the case.

Those who are found charged with indecent exposure in the state of Florida “must have exposed your sexual organs to another person in public in a vulgar or offensive manner,” according to the Flaherty & Merrifield Criminal Defense website.

If Mullis is found guilty of indecent exposure charge, he could be ordered to pay up to $1,000 in fines, be sentenced to prison for up to one year and have his driver’s license suspended for one year.

“The accusation of a sex crime can adversely affect your life even before you have a chance to defend yourself,” according to the law firm’s website. “If convicted of this first-degree misdemeanor, you could be ordered to serve jail time and pay high fines, but you could also lose your job and your standing in the community.”

Those who are charged with indecent exposure involving a child under 16 years old will likely face even more severe punishments.

“Any indecent exposure involving a child raises the penalties significantly,” the law firm stated. “Under Florida law, lewd or lascivious exhibition is a form of child sexual abuse, even if it does not include physical or sexual contact with the victim.”

By Robert Scucci
| Published 15 seconds ago

There’s no problem in life that can’t be solved by an epic rant because it’s the best way to lay all your thoughts out on the table and properly dissect them. In 2025’s Is This Thing On?, these rants come in the form of an amateur stand-up set as a man tries to navigate his upcoming divorce. What starts as a completely impulsive move turns into a lifeline for Will Arnett’s Alex Novak, who doesn’t necessarily want to move on without his wife and kids, but doesn’t yet know how to accept this phase of his life.

A comedy drama with an extra emphasis on comedy, Is This Thing On? is a feel-good story about falling out of love, coping with the loss, and picking up the pieces in unexpected ways. If I have any criticism of the film, it’s that it’s just a little too convenient, and the stakes, all things considered, are considerably low for the kind of point it’s trying to get across. The concept, which is loosely based on English comedian John Bishop’s life, is fun, and it’s a light watch. It’s a great movie about second chances, and sometimes that’s all you really need after a particularly tumultuous week on the home front.

From Bachelor Pad To Comedy Club

Is This Thing On? doesn’t have much going on at a narrative level, but its character arcs are still satisfying. Amicably separated from his wife of 20 odd years, Tess (Laura Dern), Alex Novak (Will Arnett) feels lost post-marriage. Their divorce wasn’t rancorous, and they still run in the same social circles. They live separately, but share custody of their two kids, Felix (Blake Kane) and Jude (Calvin Knegten). By all measures, this is the healthiest way to approach divorce, but it’s obvious that the separation is gnawing away at both Alex and Tess, who no longer feel like a couple but still show up for each other every day.

After eating a pot cookie with Tess and accidentally getting separated at the train station, Alex walks into a comedy club. Not having any cash on hand, he signs up for an open mic to get out of paying the cover charge, and something awakens in him that night. He goes on stage and kills it, finding the sense of purpose outside of his white-collar job and family life that he’s been desperately craving.

It doesn’t take long for him to become an open mic regular, and eventually a featured act, unbeknownst to his family, which is probably for the better. Since most of his jokes are about his failed marriage, it’s a good thing that Tess doesn’t hear his rants. That is, until she shows up at a comedy club by sheer coincidence and sees him in action.

From this point forward in Is This Thing On?, Alex and Tess decide to give their relationship a second chance, learning the real reason their marriage failed now that they’ve had some time apart. It’s not like everything gets fixed overnight, but they still have feelings for each other, even if they don’t quite know how to move forward at this point in their lives.

When A Feel-Good Movie Feels Too Good

A total feel-good movie through and through, Is This Thing On? is about more than life after divorce and one man’s attempt to pick up the pieces. By all measures, Alex is killing it. He’s showing up for his family in ways he neglected in the past, and his comedy hobby puts a bounce in his step. His new lease on life is immediately noticed by the woman who no longer wanted to be with him, but decides that she does upon realizing that she could also be chasing her dreams of being an Olympic volleyball coach while supporting him with his.

The problem with this dynamic, however, is that it doesn’t feel plausible, even if it’s inspired by a true story. Too many critical changes happen too quickly, making the whole thing play out like a Lifetime movie, which is unfortunate because with a little more drama and tension, this could have been a perfect movie. It explores themes that a lot of married couples struggle with, but its “conflict” is borderline nonexistent.

For what it’s worth, though, it’s a nice movie about finding a new purpose in life well into adulthood, when you should be set in your ways, and that’s really all it needs to be. I’m not buying how clean everything resolves here, but if these things happened in my life, it’s probably how I’d want them to play out.

As of this writing, Is This Thing On? is streaming on Hulu.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 1 hour ago

For men, one of the most difficult tasks on this planet is picking out a good date movie. This seemingly simple task is made nearly impossible because the two parties are into completely different films. For example, maybe he likes action movies and stoner comedies. Meanwhile, she likes indie dramas and period piece Oscar bait. How can you pick something both will enjoy? Simple: get yourself a movie with a little something for everyone!

To this day, the best date movie is 50 First Dates (2004), a vintage Adam Sandler film that pairs him up yet again with Drew Barrymore, his most affable onscreen partner. It wasn’t exactly a critical hit, but audiences way back when enjoyed how this film managed to combine some deeply deranged comedy with genuinely emotional storytelling. If you’re ready to watch a perfect date movie with your girl (or maybe just cry some manly tears on your own), then you need to stream 50 First Dates for free on Tubi!

Thanks For The Memories

The premise of 50 First Dates is that a quirky marine veterinarian living in Hawaii falls in love with a local art teacher. They hit it off really well, but there’s one enormous problem: she has amnesia so severe that she always forgets what happened the previous day, which would normally make a relationship impossible. However, this wacky vet decides that he can solve this problem by doing something most men would dread. Namely, making her fall in love with him again, each and every day!

The cast of 50 First Dates is relatively small, but it’s full of really big names, including Dan Aykroyd (best known for Ghostbusters) and Sean Astin (best known for the Lord of the Rings movies). There are a few surprising actors in the cast (like Maya Rudolph), and at least one very unsurprising one: Rob Schneider, who is the apparent lifetime beneficiary of the Adam Sandler jobs program. Speaking of which, Sandler turns in one of his better performances as an amiable doofus, and he has powerful enough chemistry with a quirky Drew Barrymore that you can easily buy the two of them as the most adorkable couple on the island.

Too Cool For The Critics

Relative to its budget, 50 First Dates earned quite a bit of Hawaiian pork. Against a budget of $75 million, this quirky rom-com earned $198.5 million. That wasn’t enough scrilla to warrant a sequel, though the film leaves a complicated legacy involving both a stage musical adaptation and (somewhat inexplicably) a Thailand remake that is scheduled to premiere later this year.

When 50 First Dates came out, reviewers decided it was quite the frustrating cinematic vacation. On Rotten Tomatoes, it has a 45 percent, with critics complaining that the film had too much gross-out humor for their liking. However, they did begrudgingly acknowledge that Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore have an amazing chemistry that often elevates otherwise mundane scenes.

A Sexy Chemistry Lesson

For me, the chemistry is more than just a saving grace. It is, in many ways, the only reason to watch 50 First Dates. That’s not a slam against the movie, whose Hawaiian backdrop leads to some genuinely breathtaking shots. But this is a romantic comedy, and as any film buff knows, a rom-com is only as good as its lead couple. Fortunately, Sandler and Barrymore (who also shine in films like The Wedding Singer) bounce off each other in such a natural way that their onscreen affection is downright infectious. 

Plus, as I mentioned before, the film is great for couples with different tastes who want a film they can both enjoy. Those who enjoy typical bro comedies will enjoy the film’s humor, which embraces grossout gags without getting as unhinged as, say, The Waterboy. At the same time, the film functions surprisingly well as a romance in which the last two people you’d ever expect to fall in love find joy in each other’s arms. Trust me, fellows: if you like Jackass and your gal likes Bridgerton, 50 First Dates is the hilarious and heartfelt compromise you’ve been looking for. 

Bound For Laughs

Finally, for better or for worse, this is an Adam Sandler movie, and he has spent a lifetime transforming himself into the McDonald’s of cinematic comedians. Like McD’s, he’s the same in almost every comedy, which is great for fans of films like Happy Gilmore and Billy Madison who are looking for a bit of guilty pleasure entertainment. In 50 First Dates, he does nothing to really change up the brand of goofball humor that originally made him a star. But that won’t matter a bit to Sandler fans who are happy to watch the actor follow a very familiar, very funny formula from beginning to end.

Will you remember 50 First Dates for the rest of your life, or will you be stuck reliving the moment when you hit the back button and bail out? The only way to find out is to stream the movie for yourself on Tubi. It’s the perfect film for couples, and one that you can stream completely for free. If nothing else, that means you’re halfway to every man’s romantic dream: a cheap date night!

By Shanna Mathews-Mendez
| Published 28 seconds ago

When Orson Scott Card first conceived of a short story about a gifted kid in a futuristic battle with alien forces, he could not have imagined the scope this work would eventually take on. Today, almost 50 years later, the film adaptation of that original work, Ender’s Game, is streaming free on Plex and Tubi. 

The central theme of the story asks: How far would you go to win a war you didn’t start?

Ender’s Game began as a short story, first published in 1977. The short story did so well that Card developed it into a full-length novel, Ender’s Game, released in 1985.

The book is named for the main character, Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, a supernaturally gifted young boy enlisted to help win the war between Earth and the aliens. Card also said he chose the name because of how close it comes to “endgame” in chess. 

The novel was hugely popular, winning multiple awards, including the Hugo and the Nebula. For decades, Card was sure his work could not be developed into a film because the entire experience takes place in Ender’s head. After much deliberation, debate, and discussion, he finally agreed to the version we have now.

So, we can take the word of the author and the reception by critics. Even the U.S. Marines have declared that the book stands as an excellent example of what kinds of decisions are necessary when in the midst of war. 

While the movie Ender’s Game, directed by Gavin Hood, follows the book quite closely, it must leave some things out. However, more than edits, the primary change readers of the book who watch the film will note is that the on-screen version of this story makes Ender, played here by Asa Butterfield, a much more sympathetic figure. 

In Ender’s Game, the novel, Ender exerts decisive force over perceived bullies from a very young age, which catches the attention of higher-ups in the military. His reasoning is that it is better to take extreme measures now to prevent conflict later.

It must be acknowledged that Ender is only 10 years old when he kills two different people. Whether he needed to kill them or not is up to the reader to decide. In the movie, we see only one death, and it is portrayed as much more accidental.

Despite the changes to the story and the softening of the tone, Ender’s Game was praised for its exceptional cast. In addition to the rising star Asa Butterfield, it includes Viola Davis, Hailee Steinfeld, Ben Kingsley, Abigail Breslin, and Harrison Ford as Colonel Gruff. Author Orson Scott Card even makes a cameo, well, his voice does.

While the film received mixed reviews, it has a mostly positive following and has already become a cult classic since 2013. It’s certainly worth watching, but of course, as in most cases, you should read the book as well.

When you’re ready to take on this heavy material, you can stream Ender’s Game on Tubi. Just be prepared to have a conflict of conscience.