By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 6 seconds ago

The 90s were an interesting decade for Sylvester Stallone. Between Rocky V  and Stop Or My Mom Will Shoot, Stallone made a brief appearance as himself in HBO’s groundbreaking comedy series, Dream On. For years, the series was kept off streaming due to a web of licensing issues, but now it’s available on The Roku Channel. Stallone is part of the double-sized Season 2 premiere, “The Second Greatest Story Ever Told,” and well, it’s a little strange seeing a star as big as he is pop up in a sitcom cameo. 

Sylvester Stallone Plays Sylvester Stallone

Dream On fell through the cracks. The 1990 comedy series ran for six seasons on HBO, notable for being one of the network’s first original comedies, and also its copious use of swearing and nudity. It was also created by Marta Kaufmann and David Crane, the creators of Friends. That could help explain why HBO decided to roll out the red carpet for the star-studded Season 2 premiere episode. 

Sylvester Stallone appears briefly on a talk show discussing how he’s part of a movie about the life of Dr. Richard Stone, the most interesting man in the world. Dr. Stone is the new husband of Judith (Wendie Malick), the ex-wife of Dream On’s hero, Martin Tupper (Brian Benben), and also the fifth Beatle, astronaut, brain surgeon, best-selling author, and consultant to the Pope. Stallone isn’t playing Richard in the film: he’s playing Martin.

Dream On Redefined Sitcoms For The 90s

If the plot of the two-part episode sounds familiar, it’s because Dream On relishes every single Hollywood trope, but because you saw How I Met Your Mother. “The Wedding Bride” also has a movie being made about the main character’s ex, in this case, Ted’s failed wedding to Stella, which makes him look like a complete idiot. In that show, Ted’s played by Chris Kattan, so at least Martin can take some solace in that he’s played by Stallone. 

“The Second Greatest Story Ever Told” got a lot of mileage out of bringing Martin and his ex Judith to a working movie shoot, complete with even more celebrity cameos of the early 90s, most notably Robin Leech, the host of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. There’s a running joke about the director, Sir Roland, hating every single person on the set, including the gaffer. It’s a great episode, but it also maintains the standard Dream On formula that you’ll either love or hate. 

Dream On’s opening credits explain that Martin was raised in front of the television, which means as an adult, he’s constantly going back to old black and white movie and television footage to process his emotions. The constant use of old clips is what kept the series off streaming for as long as it was, and in the span of a single conversation, there could be half a dozen quick cutaways. It’s Family Guy humor. 

After waiting for decades, Dream On is available to stream on The Roku Channel. Uncut, uncensored, and with a random, awkward Sylvester Stallone cameo included.

General Hospital spoilers for the two weeks of June 8th through the 19th shock as we see Portia Robinson’s (Brook Kerr) baby shower devolve into chaos. Plus, Liesl Obrecht (Kathleen Gati) is threatened and forced to do a bad man’s bidding.

General Hospital: Monday, June 8th – Christina’s Shocking Announcement

On Monday, June 8th, we’ve got Kristina Corinthos (Kate Mansi) asking somebody for something. So, this may be Lucas Jones (Van Hansis) as we are getting down to Kate Mansi’s last few episodes. So, be sure to watch closely.

General Hospital Spoilers: Jordan Ashford Appears at Baby Shower?

Portia asks Isaiah Gannon (Sawandi Wilson) on Monday if he can hold off for now. And I’m sure it’s something to do with Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner). Also, next week, Jordan Ashford (Tanisha Harper) and Curtis are together and he looks all upset and gripey.

Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) tells Cassius Faison that locating Britt is no longer a priority. That’s because Cullum kidnapped Liesl Obrecht. Also, we’ve got Laura Spencer (Genie Francis) basking in her victory as the week begins.

She is overjoyed that Lucas got that stuff out of Sidwell’s safe so that he can’t blackmail them anymore. And Laura tells Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) she won’t hide anymore.

General Hospital Spoilers: Ross Cullum Back with Threats

Josslyn Jacks (Eden McCoy) is running out of time. She is yelling on Monday, at Cullum, “What did you do to her?” when a knocked out Liesl is thrown into her little captivity room. This week, Josslyn is trying to calm a very disoriented Liesl.

Cullum’s going to threaten Liesl and make her finish Faison’s final project or else Cullum may threaten to hunt down and kill Britt. Or he may use not Nathan as a bargaining chip.

Kai Taylor (Jens Austin Astrup) worries about Trina Robinson (Tabyana Ali). She may be overwhelmed with work and planning her mom’s baby shower. Plus, she’s avoiding rehearsing for the showcase.

General Hospital: Tuesday, June 9th – Secrets and Confessions

Tuesday, June 9th, not-Nathan makes a big confession. Something’s got Sidwell on the war path. Could be the one-two punch of the Deception rejection. He’ll rage that he lost the blackmail leverage over Sonny and Laura. Plus, he lost his helicopter privileges.

We have Willow Tait (Katelyn MacMullen) caught off guard maybe by Brook Lynn Quartermaine (Amanda Setton) about Harrison Chase (Josh Swickard). In a recent interview, actress Katelyn MacMullen insisted Willow isn’t romantically interested in Chase.

Brook Lynn tells somebody that she is sorry. Maybe it’s Isaiah because of his injuries. Especially if Brook Lynn is at Portia’s baby shower and she sees Isaiah’s injuries for herself.

General Hospital: Wednesday & Thursday – Shower Chaos and Discoveries

Portia’s baby shower begins and things are tense. Curtis is going to be awful. We know Kai is on Isaiah’s side because of little Derek, but Aunt Stella Henry (Vernee Watson) will be there hopefully playing peacemaker.

Wednesday, June 10th, Portia and Curtis butt heads over Isaiah. Portia has zero sympathy about his criminal charges because Curtis has shown no remorse for attacking Isaiah.

Carly Corinthos (Laura Wright) leaps into action. Trina makes a bold decision and Willow gets a tempting offer and this may be part of Michael’s plan. Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) gets terrible news.

General Hospital Spoilers: Sonny Corinthos Caught off Guard

Thursday, June 11th, Ava Jerome (Maura West) has an attack of conscience and this may be about Ethan and her blackmail. Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart) warns Carly to be careful.

Sonny is caught off guard. Molly is impressed by Cody and Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros) touches base with not-Nathan. And I bet she’s going to tell him Liesl is missing. I’m sure that Nina expects Nathan to be alarmed and very concerned.

Danny Morgan (Asher Jared Antonyzyn) and Charlotte Cassadine (Bluesy Burke) hatch a new plan on Thursday. And I wonder if it’s about them going to find Rocco.

General Hospital: Friday, June 12th – Decisions and Arrests

Then on Friday, June 12th, Ethan ponders his options. And Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) gives Willow a piece of her mind. Plus, a high-profile is arrested by Chase. Alexis is persuasive. And this may be her telling Kristina, go for it with medical school.

Kate Mansi said to watch on Friday to find out Kristina’s fate. Also, Brook Lynn needs Sonny’s help.

General Hospital: June 15th-19th – New Developments and Confrontations

Then the week of June 15th through the 19th, Ethan makes a decision. And Tracy watches Chase like a hawk. She’s convinced that he is being unfaithful with Willow. We’ll find out more about the high-profile arrest that Chase makes.

We could see Willow and Chase get closer and Brook Lynn getting more upset. Nina warned Willow not to give Chase that job. But if he decides he wants it, I’m sure Willow would go for it.

We’ll see what’s next for Joss and if Liesl is fighting back or has to give in and do what Sidwell and Cullum want. And we’re going see how Cassius handles seeing Liesl held hostage. Hopefully, we get an update on Rocco and Britt.

Sonny and Brook Lynn soon take action and Danny and Charlotte may be in trouble from their newest stunt.

“Wicked” co-stars Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater are reportedly no longer together. Although they were together for nearly three years, they reportedly split amicably a few months ago and plan to remain friends. As for the “we can’t be friends” singer, she is reportedly “doing great” and focused on her Eternal Sunshine tour and new album, Petal, which will be released on July 31.

Even though the “Wicked” costars have called it quits, they are reportedly still supportive of each other and plan to remain friends.

“It’s amicable, they gave lots of time and careful consideration and decided to go their separate ways,” an insider told PEOPLE magazine on Monday. “They are still friends and very supportive of one another. They have been quietly broken up for several months.”

The source went on to say that the “the boy is mine” singer is “doing great” and is focused on her career following the split. Her Eternal Sunshine tour kicked off on June 6, with tour dates in L.A. this weekend. She is also focused on her album, Petal, which will be released on July 31.

Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater Met On The Set Of ‘Wicked’

Fans might remember that the former couple met on the set of “Wicked.” The first film was released on November 22, 2024, with the second following on November 21, 2025. Grande played Glinda, the good witch, while Slater played Boq.

Rumors that they were romantically involved began in July 2023, but they didn’t make their relationship Instagram official until November 2024. They appeared at many promotional events for “Wicked” while the two films were being released.

In a 2024 interview with Entertainment Tonight, the “Side to Side” singer had nothing but praise for Slater’s work, calling him “such an amazing person.”

“He’s always adorable, and he’s so amazing in this film — he’s such an amazing person,” she said at the time. “I’m so happy people are getting to know him. My heart is very happy.”

The Former Couple Have Supported Each Other’s Careers

In November 2025, Slater said that Grande’s performance was “out of this world” in a new interview with Extra at the New York City premiere of “Wicked: For Good.”

In March 2026, Grande had nothing but good things to say about the final performance of Slater’s off-Broadway play “Marcel on the Train,” which he co-wrote and starred in.

“Congratulations on a beautiful run of this very beautiful show,” Grande wrote on her Instagram Stories on March 22, as reported by PEOPLE. She went on to say that she was “so very proud.”

Ariana Grande Released A New Single In May 2026

In May 2026, Grande gave fans a taste of her new album with her vulnerable new single, “Hate That I Made You Love Me.” In the new track, Grande sings:

“I’ve held your projections when you’ve felt so insecure / Tell me, why is it this way? / Why you so hate to see women endure? / Is it really my fault you all gave me your hearts of your own accord? / I don’t really think so.”

The singer first announced her new album back in April. At the time, she said that Petal represents “something that is full of life and growing through the cracks of something cold and hard and challenging.”

Ariana Grande Is Continuing Her Acting Career

The “Thank U, Next” singer has a busy schedule ahead of her. The Eternal Sunshine Tour kicked off on June 6 at the Oakland Arena in Oakland, California. It will continue through Tuesday, September 1, and will wrap up at the 02 Arena in London.

However, she is not leaving her acting career behind. She is set to star in the upcoming comedy film “Focker-in-Law” and also has a role in the next season of “American Horror Story.” She will also lend her voice to the animated film adaptation of the popular Dr. Seuss book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”

In addition, she will also reunite with her “Wicked” co-star Jonathan Bailey in next year’s West End production of “Sunday in the Park with George.”

By Robert Scucci
| Updated 4 seconds ago

“Mad Max” is its own genre, and if video stores still existed, I would contact them every day until they built out a shelf that accommodates this indisputable fact. Dead End Drive-In (1986), Wheels of Fire (1985), Waterworld (1995), and The Rover (2014) all take different pages from the same playbook, and for my money, there’s nothing better than a good old-fashioned war set in the wasteland.

The Mad Max setup works exceptionally well, and can thrive on a tight budget if practical effects are applied with care and the editing does all the heavy lifting. 1986’s Future Hunters is one such movie. It is clearly rough around the edges, but it’s put together so well that you’re willing to strap in and see where it takes you.

Make sure you’ve got some extra ratchet straps on hand, because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

To Save The Future, You Must Find The Shaft Of Destiny!

Future Hunters kicks off in the year 2025, in a post-nuclear dystopian society. At its center is Matthew (Richard Norton), the obvious stand-in for Max Rockatansky. After a run-in with the future’s warlord, Zaar (David Light), and his marauders, Matthew unearths the Spear of Destiny from a temple and is whisked back to 1986, when there’s still enough time to keep the world from collapsing. In this timeline, he meets an anthropologist named Michelle (Linda Carol) and her boyfriend Slade (Robert Patrick), who suddenly have the weight of the world on their shoulders.

With his last dying breath, a fatally wounded Matthew tells Michelle and Slade to find the spear’s missing shaft, which will complete the artifact and allow it to be used against the evil forces that be. If I tell you what happens next in Future Hunters, you wouldn’t believe me, and I don’t want to spoil this one for you. So instead, I’m just going to give you a sizzle reel of what makes this movie so great.

Michelle and Slade travel the world, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for the Shaft of Destiny. They really don’t have much to work with, but they’re whisked away to Philippine jungles and get into fights with Nazis, Mongol warriors, and dwarves. When you think they’ve had enough, they’re abducted by Amazon women and find themselves constantly at odds with Zaar, who is also looking to complete the artifact, and Bauer, the head of a Nazi expedition who happens to be searching for the shaft so it can be reunited with the Spear of Destiny.

Along the way, there’s no shortage of biker gangs and seasoned martial artists who make every step of this journey feel like an insurmountable obstacle. I don’t even want to know what the body count is here, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it neared the triple digits.

Too Many Bad Guys To Count

While I admit that Future Hunters has too many antagonists to reasonably measure with human words alone, this movie is never not fun. What it may be lacking in fight choreography, it more than makes up for with Gervacio Santos’ editing. Every frame feels deliberate, as if Santos already had a firm grasp on the technical side of cutting together a high-octane action thriller, but there’s an artistry to it, too, that cannot be overstated.

We’re not working with a lot here, but every detonation feels earned, and whenever you think the camera is going to take a break and soak in the scenery, it’s already shock-cutting to another montage of shell casings flying and bodies dropping.

It’s seriously a beautiful thing to see play out on screen. By all measures, Future Hunters is a B-movie that was likely produced for less than a million dollars. Robert Patrick commands every scene he’s in, whether he’s the badass hero of the coming wasteland or so far in over his head that he doesn’t know how to handle himself. He toes that line perfectly, and the balance is never compromised, no matter how ridiculous things get.

If you’re a fan of all things Mad Max, this is one of those imitations that strays so far from the source material that probably inspired it that it becomes a sample size of one. I’d bet you anything that if George Miller saw this one, he’d feel like his legacy was not undermined by the film, but enhanced by it.

Future Hunters takes an already over-the-top setup and pushes the envelope so far that you can’t help but admire it. It’s truly one of a kind, and deserves your attention the next time you want to trudge through the wasteland but crave a flavor that’s more wild than anything you’ve seen in this wheelhouse before.

As of this writing, you can stream Future Hunters for free on Tubi.

Bold and the Beautiful spoilers for June 8th through the 19th bring revenge as Bill Spencer (Don Diamont) rages when he hears his wife Katie Logan (Heather Tom) was slapped. Plus, Remy Price (Christian Weissmann) works to get Deacon back in his life.

Bold and the Beautiful: Monday, June 8th – New Beginnings and Old Tensions

All right, on Monday, June 8th, we have Electra Forrester (Laneya Grace) and Will Spencer (Crew Morrow) reaching a new level in their relationship. Hopefully, R.J. Forrester (Brayan Nicoletti) will leave her alone.

So, Electra and Will get romantic by candlelight at his beach house. Will says that nothing and no one will come between us. Sounds like famous last words. You’re asking for it when you say that stuff.

Brooke Logan (Katherine Kelly Lang) and Katie reach an understanding. They may agree to disagree and may want to destroy each other. The only time I recall Katie slapping Brooke was when she found out Brooke slept with Bill (once again) when they were married.

Bold and Beautiful Spoilers: Liam Spencer Stays at Logan?

Liam Spencer (Scott Clifton) tells Wyatt Spencer (Darin Brooks) the family needs him. So, Liam tries to convince Wyatt to join them at Logan. And I think he will since Darin Brooks is on contract at Bold and the Beautiful. So he’s sticking around.

We may also see more of Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) and Hope Logan (Annika Noelle) chat from Friday and things may get more heated.

Bold and the Beautiful: Tuesday, June 9th – New Couples and Secrets

On Tuesday, June 9th, R.J. and Dylan get closer. They may end up rebounding since R.J.  twirls Dylan around on the dance floor at Bikini Bar. Hopefully, they start dating and forget Electra and Will.

Bill and Katie are excited for their future. I suspect the Katie slapping incident has her and Bill even more determined. They want to crush Forrester and Brooke and Ridge. And Bill may rage about Brooke hitting his wife.

Bold and the Beautiful: Wednesday, June 10th – Fashion Designs and Workplace Worries

Wednesday, June 10th, Dylan is afraid of risking her job at Forrester Creations. It may be Dylan worried that R.J. could turn on her if things don’t work out if they date.

Next week, Hope and Deke Sharpe (Harrison Cone) lurk near the runway at Logan as they look at a mini preview of the Hope Logan collection. But Katie is front and center and thrilled with the designs she sees.

Bold and the Beautiful: Thursday, June 11th – Suspicions and Surprises

Thursday, June 11th, Ridge suspects that R.J. might have a new lady. Plus, Hope gets news that disappoints her. It could be some criticism of her and Deke’s new designs.

Singer Fanny Grayson (Elsa Esnoult) returns as a French fashion enthusiast. She might be over at Forrester to preview Eric’s new couture collection.

Bold and the Beautiful: Friday, June 12th – Love Bombing and Revelations

Then on Friday, June 12th, we’ve got Remy making a discovery. Remy looks at Deke’s sketches and says he can’t believe he’s at Logan. Remy flatters and says Deacon leveled up. Is he Sheila’s mystery roommate? We’ll see.

Steffy wants answers from Katie. She may suspect Hope is lying about her leave. And Steffy sniffing around at Logan would be bad for Hope.

Bold and the Beautiful: June 15th-19th – Collections Launch and Confrontations

Then June 15th through the 19th, Steffy may get closer to figuring out Hope’s at Logan. Looks like there’s fast progress towards the Hope Logan collection launch. And Remy may convince Deke for another chance.

R.J. and Dylan spend time together. And Brooke and Katie’s rivalry worsens. Plus, Bill may target Brooke for slapping Katie. Donna Logan (Jennifer Gareis) worries the Logans are being destroyed.

And Bill and Katie work hard to rush the launch of their new collection. They want to shock Brooke, Ridge, and Steffy. And we’ll see a showstopper featuring the big blue Hope for the Future diamond.

Young and the Restless spoilers for June 8th through the 19th, include Billy Abbott (Jason Thompson) being really upset to find out who owns Chancellor and who’s running it. Plus, Victor Newman (Eric Braeden) hits his family with a stunning business decision.

Y&R: Monday, June 8th – Victor’s Revenge Plot

So on Monday, June 8th, we’ve got Victor wanting Matt Clark (Roger Howarth) closer to Cane Ashby (Billy Flynn). With Matt’s help, Victor says he is going to crush Cane. But Matt doesn’t want to hurt anyone. Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) is also concerned.

Victor says Matt has to make amends. Plus, Matt wants to atone with Nick after getting him hooked on Fentanyl. Finally, Matt agrees to Victor’s terms and he goes off to get settled.

Young and the Restless Spoilers: Victor Newman Reassures the Family

Adam Newman (Mark Grossman) gets caught up by Nick and is upset Matt’s living at the ranch. Nick thinks Matt seems remorseful. Victor tells Nick he’ll clear all of Matt’s criminal charges if he passes his test.

Now, Victor wants Cane gone from Genoa City. He says Matt could have escaped instead of saving Nick. So, Victor thinks this is the best way to test Matt.

Young and the Restless Spoilers: Lily Winters Puts Plan in Action

Malcolm Winters (Shemar Moore) shows up to see Lily Winters (Christel Khalil). He thanks Cane for donating and saving his life. Then, Malcolm leaves to find Holden Novak (Nathan Owens).

And Cane tells Lily that Malcolm threatened him and promises never to hurt her. Also, Lily tells Cane she wants him to run Chancellor. In the end, Cane agrees to run Chancellor for her. Billy Abbott’s gonna come unhinged about this.

Holden Novak and Claire Grace Newman (Hayley Erin) get more serious. She doesn’t care about his past with Audra Charles (Zuleyka Silver). And Claire agrees to be Holden’s date to the Shadow Room.

And Stephanie Simmons (Vivica A. Fox) tells Holden about her chief of staff offer from the hospital. He’s all for it. Claire finally gets to meet Malcolm. He asks Holden about his future and if he’d work at Winters.

But Holden says Devon Hamilton (Bryton James) and Nate Hastings (Sean Dominic) wouldn’t like that. Malcolm is sure that his son will change their minds.

Y&R: Tuesday, June 9th – Shadow Room Launch and Secrets

Tuesday, June 9th, Sharon Newman (Sharon Case) avoids Matt. Sharon’s terrified of Matt and Victor doesn’t seem to care if he gets what he wants. Noah Newman (Lucas Adams) debuts the new Genoa City Shadow Room.

Sharon’s there toasting Noah’s success. And Stephanie goes with Malcolm to the launch with Lily. Also this week, Matt asks Victor when they’ll start the plan for him to target Cane. Victor’s headed over to Beyond the Gates for a crossover.

Young and the Restless: Wednesday & Thursday – Family Dynamics and Health Scares

Then on Wednesday, June 10th, Victoria Newman (Amelia Heinle) and Kyle Abbott (Michael Mealor) make peace at the big Shadow Room launch. Plus, we’ll have Sienna refuse to back down from Audra.  Sally Spectra (Courtney Hope) at Audra’s side.

Plus, Danny Romalotti (Michael Damian) shows Christine Williams (Lauralee Bell) another side of himself at the launch, sitting with his son, Daniel Romalotti, having a good time.

Thursday, June 11th. Stephanie entrusts Nate with a secret. And Nikki Newman (Melody Thomas Scott) stands by Nick as they attend an AA meeting.

Also, Victor shocks everybody on Thursday’s Young and the Restless with a big business decision. Also, he gets a scare during the Beyond the Gates crossover. A tornado hits the club where Victor’s at a fundraiser.

Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman) is there with Kyle and Diane Jenkins (Susan Walters). Jack’s looking very disheveled from the natural disaster. But all of the Genoa City people come back from Maryland alive and well.

Y&R: Friday, June 12th – Calls and Connections

Friday, June 12th, Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford) calls Summer Newman. Also this week, Phyllis tells Lauren Baldwin (Tracey Bregman) on giving back Newman to Victor. Adam is watching Matt closely. And Nikki has to answer to Victor.

So Nikki’s having those migraines and runs to the doctor. But she doesn’t want to tell Victor she’s sick because she doesn’t want him back just because she’s in a health crisis.

Y&R: June 15th-19th – Fallout and Recovery

The week of June 15th through the 19th, Billy’s bothered and bitter that Cane’s running Chancellor. Also, Nikki’s got a serious health scare. After diagnosis, there’s major decisions Nikki must make quickly.

We’ll see Victor’s plan for Matt in action. Nick’s still struggling. We’ll learn more about what happened with Diane. And we’ll find out more about Stephanie’s secret and we will also find out if Matt can be trusted.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 11 seconds ago

These days, most Star Trek fans look back at The Next Generation as the gold standard of the franchise. Criticisms of NuTrek shows like Discovery and Starfleet Academy don’t occur in a vacuum; instead, the harshest critiques come from veteran fans who wish these newer series could be more like TNG and its spinoffs, Deep Space Nine and Voyager. Ironically, though, TNG was considered far from a perfect show when it was originally airing. The first season is notoriously bad, and the third season is decidedly hit-or-miss. Star Trek: The Next Generation didn’t achieve true greatness until Season 3, and even then, producers agonized over how to improve the show. 

For example, one frequent producer note was that The Next Generation could use more action. The series excelled at exploring moral dilemmas and wrapping everything up with a stirring speech from Captain Picard. However, it lacked the swashbuckling savoir-faire of The Original Series. Producers wanted to add more derring-do into the show, and at their behest, the writers created “The High Ground.” Unfortunately, the episode was a disaster: not only did it feature a script change that got the episode banned in other countries, but it led the writers to an unfortunate revelation. Namely, when you focus on action for the sake of action, you lose everything that makes Star Trek special!

The Warp On Terror

The premise of “The High Ground” admittedly sounds more like the plot of an ‘80s action movie than the plot of a Star Trek episode. After terrorists set off a bomb on an alien planet and abduct Dr. Crusher, she discovers that the special teleporter they are using for their attacks is slowly killing them by changing their DNA. While the Enterprise crew tries to find the enemy base, the terrorist leader boldly attacks the Enterprise; when he fails to blow up the warp core, he successfully kidnaps Captain Picard. Eventually, Riker finds the base and leads an attack in which the planetary security chief kills the lead terrorist.

One of the most fascinating things about “The High Ground” is that pretty much nobody who made it ended up liking the episode. According to Captains’ Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages, legendary staff writer and future Battlestar Galactica reboot showrunner, Ronald D. Moore, dubbed this episode “an abomination. It’s our one terrorist show. We didn’t have anything interesting to say about terrorism except that it’s bad and Beverly gets kidnapped – ho hum.” Not holding back, Moore sarcastically described how the show “[got] to have nice, big preachy speeches about terrorism and freedom, fighting and security forces versus society. It’s a very unsatisfying episode, and the staff wasn’t really happy with it.”

The Episode With Nothing To Say

Fellow iconic writer and frequent Moore collaborator Brannon Braga felt the same way. “Very rarely do we start thinking about an episode in terms of an issue. Let’s do a show about AIDS, let’s do a show about terrorism. We rarely think in those terms,” he said. “We usually think in terms of neat science-fiction twists, and that’s what sends us in the direction of what’s this story about and who’s in it?” Sadly, “The High Ground” had none of that: the day is saved by simply killing the terrorist leader and saying a few pretty words after Dr. Crusher convinces a young boy to put his gun down. 

Star Trek: The Next Generation showrunner Michael Piller agreed that this was an episode without substance. “We set out to do a show about terrorists. What was the statement we made about terrorism in the show?” he asked. Was it the point where the boy puts down the gun…? It was effective in the context of that show, but is certainly not a statement that provides any great revelation.” He then summed up his thoughts on why this failed as a Trek episode: “You must be prepared to say something new about social issues.” Obviously, “The High Ground” failed to do so, and the whole episode felt like empty action schlock. 

The Explosive Moment That Got This Episode Banned

However, nobody hated “The High Ground” quite so much as episode writer Melinda M. Snodgrass. She wanted to give the plot parallels to the American Revolution, with Picard reluctantly realizing that he had taken the side of the oppressor. But producers forced her to instead give the episode parallels to Northern Ireland’s fight for freedom against the UK.  Eventually, those producers would regret this decision: the final script has Data referencing how the reunification of Ireland was made possible through terrorist attacks. Because of this, the episode was banned from airing on the BBC until 2007, and it has never aired on RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster.

Most fans consider Season 3 to be when Star Trek: The Next Generation became must-watch television. Sadly, “The High Ground” is one of the season’s most disappointing episodes, offering nothing but empty action, empty words, and an implicit terrorism endorsement from Data. This resulted in an episode hated by the fans, the writers, the showrunner, and multiple countries that banned its broadcast. None of this would have happened if the producers hadn’t demanded an action-packed episode. Fortunately, the show never dabbled in weird terrorist plots again, and The Next Generation crew became known for exploration, communication, and diplomacy instead of action.

Except for ladies’ man Riker, who’s known for his love of an entirely different kind of action!

More and more people are discovering how South Korea has an incredible range of shows for TV. Aptly named K-dramas, these shows highlight Korean culture and introduce to audiences some of the most popular plot points and themes in Korea, including medical dramas. In fact, not many viewers might know that the hit ABC drama The Good Doctor was originally a Korean drama of (almost) the same name.

The success of a medical K-drama is due in large part to its complex plots, unique premise, characters who have the chance to grow, and the development of character relationships. Since they rely on one season to make a great drama, medical K-dramas should be able to wow and dazzle viewers to leave a lasting impression.

25

‘Hyper Knife’ (2025)

Image via Disney+

Hyper Knife is an unconventional but exciting medical crime-thriller, and a Disney+ original K-drama. Though it’s darker than most common medical dramas, it’s a novelty in a world of similar patterns when it comes to medical drama narratives. Hyper Knife contains some psychological tension, moral ambiguity, and character-driven conflict; it’s less about teamwork or institutions, and more about individual brilliance as a doctor—neurosurgeon, no less. Park Eun-bin steps into a darker role than her usual work and delivers a great, commanding lead.

Hyper Knife is about Dr. Jung Se-ok (Park), a prominent and highly talented neurosurgeon who gets stripped of her license after an incident. After this, she retreats underground to perform illegal surgeries and push the boundaries of her work. Her conflict appears when her former mentor, Choi Deok-hee (Sul Kyung-gu), finds her once again and tests her resolve to push boundaries. They clash on various ideas and principles, including ethics and pride; redemption, revenge, and ambition play a big part in this tense thriller. Its medical background isn’t accidental, either—it reflects the idea of modern medicine that it needs to constantly push boundaries.

24

‘Blood’ (2015)

Credit to KBS2 TV

One day, HPB surgeon Park Ji-sang (Ahn Jae-hyun) meets and falls for Yoo Ri-ta (Koo Hye-sun), an arrogant physician who thinks highly of herself. The only problem is that Ji-sang is a vampire who seems to contradict all stereotypes. He strongly desires to be close to humans and values their lives extensively, but then he finds himself on a divisive line when he meets hospital director Lee Jae-wook (Ji Jin-hee).

Blood is a uniquely fascinating Korean drama that includes a take on vampires living in the modern world. While vampires are the least-encountered mythical creatures in Korean dramas, Ahn Jae-hyun puts on an incredible performance as an outwardly cold vampire who is actually caring and deeply invested in the human race. It’s hard not to root for Jae-hyun, whose intricate values make him one of the best vampires to exist. Not to mention, the chemistry between him and Hye-sun was absolutely real—it makes it almost easy to forget her and Lee Min-ho‘s chemistry in the defining K-drama Boys Over Flowers.

23

‘Dr. Brain’ (2021)

Koh Sewon (Lee Sun-kyun) is a brilliant neuroscientist whose life is upended when his young son is kidnapped and his wife ends up in a coma. Wrongfully accused of the crime, Sewon resorts to a risky experimental procedure he invented: “brain sync,” a technology that allows him to transfer the memories of the deceased directly into his own. As he delves into the traumatic final moments of suspects and victims, Sewon begins to lose his grip on reality, absorbing others’ consciousnesses while racing to uncover the truth about his family and running from a shadowy conspiracy that will go to any length to conceal his discovery.

Dr. Brain is a groundbreaking medical thriller that challenges genre conventions. As the first Korean-language original on Apple TV, it deviates from the traditional hospital-drama format. Instead, writer/director Kim Jee-woon creates a chilling entry point into psychological horror and noir mystery, delving into the most sinister aspects of memory transfer. The late Lee Sun-kyun delivers a hauntingly quiet performance that perfectly captures a man losing himself one stolen memory at a time. While not as soothing as Dr. Romantic or Hospital Playlist, Dr. Brain rewards viewers who enjoy cerebral, unsettling storytelling. It’s a powerful, visually stunning reminder that medical K-dramas of all genres are awesome.

22

‘Ghost Doctor’ (2022)

Image via tvN

Go Seung-tak (Kim Bum) is an insecure surgeon who possesses a high level of medical knowledge. His fears and lack of knowledge surrounding the surgical field, however, inhibit him from becoming a great doctor. One day, though, Seung-tak’s body is possessed by an intelligent cardiothoracic surgeon, Cha Young-min (Rain), ​​​​​who falls into a coma. Though the two do not exactly get along, they must work together. ​

Ghost Doctor is a fun, lighthearted Korean drama with a supernatural twist: a genius doctor who falls into a coma finds himself only able to possess another, unskilled doctor’s body. From the get-go, it’s obvious that this premise is a setup for a hilarious comedy. Unlike other Korean medical dramas, Ghost Doctor establishes a bromance that involves great chemistry between the two leads, both of whom are known for their roles in other great and popular series. For those who enjoy bromance, supernatural themes, and comedy, Ghost Doctor is the medical K-drama to watch.

21

‘Live Up to Your Name’ (2017)

Image via tvN

A Joseon doctor and acupuncture specialist, Heo Im (Kim Nam-gil), is left at death’s door after being tried for treason. However, instead of outright dying, Heo Im finds himself transported four hundred years into the future in Seoul, Korea. There, he meets modern-day cardiothoracic surgeon Choi Yeon-kyung (Kim Ah-joong)​​​​, who strongly believes in modern-day medicine over traditional medicine. The two form an unlikely connection.

A hidden gem, Live Up to Your Name is a Korean medical drama that features comedy, romance, and time travel: all factors of a great K-drama. Though it’s not particularly popular due to its being extremely underrated, Live Up to Your Name is a great time-travel Korean drama that viewers will undoubtedly love.

20

‘Life’ (2018)

Image via JTBC

Ye Jin-woo (Lee Dong-wook) is a highly skilled emergency doctor who works at Korea’s top medical institution. However, when new CEO Koo Seung-hyo (Cho Seung-woo) is appointed, Jin-woo and Seung-hyo begin to clash with one another, and the dark politics of the hospital are brought to light.

A well-written Korean drama, Life examines the politics of hospital care and explores very real issues seen in real life in the medical industry. As usual, Lee Dong-wook puts on a believable and emotional performance, proving that he is a versatile actor. Not to mention, Life delves deeply into the mind of a corporate business and how it clashes with a life-saving medical facility when money-making is the priority over saving lives.

19

‘Hospital Playlist’ (2020–2021)

Image via Netflix

Hospital Playlist examines the challenges and routines that five friends and doctors go through at Yulje Medical Center. The story follows Ik-jun (Jo Jung-suk), Jeong-won (Yoo Yeon-seok), Seok-hyeong (Kim Dae-myung), Song-hwa (Jeon Mi-do), and Jun-wan (Jung Kyung-ho), all of whom share a common interest, which is music.

Hospital Playlist, despite its simple premise, is actually an excellent and interesting medical drama. It features a wholesome story of friendship, which exhibits growth through their love of music. Though at times it can feature very serious scenarios, it is actually a lighthearted comedic drama for the most part, and it is one of the best Korean medical dramas to date.

18

‘Doctor John’ (2019)

Image via SBS TV

Cha Yo-han (Ji Sung) was once a well-known anesthesiologist and professor at Hanse Hospital, until he was imprisoned for three years for performing euthanasia on a dying patient. After being released, he returns to the same hospital, now secretly suffering from a rare condition that prevents him from feeling physical pain. There, he meets Kang Shi-young (Lee Se-young), and these two scarred doctors solve complex medical mysteries together that involve patients with undiagnosed pain conditions, all while grappling with the ethical boundaries of life and death.

Doctor John is a philosophical reflection on pain, suffering, and the limitations of modern medicine. Unlike most Korean dramas that focus on heroic life-saving, this one questions when death is more merciful than life. Ji Sung gives a layered performance as a man haunted by his past and estranged from his own body, while Lee adds warmth and resilience to her role. The drama’s procedural format, where each episode delves into a different pain mystery, keeps viewers interested, much like House. Doctor John is a must-see for anyone looking for morally complex medical dramas.

17

‘D-Day’ (2015)

Image via JTBC

The aftermath of a devastating 6.5-magnitude earthquake that devastates Seoul is the setting of the K-Drama D-Day. The story pits surgeon Lee Hae-seong (Kim Young-kwang) against a profit-driven hospital system. He fights for his patients alongside Jung Ddol-mi (Jung So-min), an ambitious doctor shaken by harsh realities, as well as Ha Seok-jin (Han Woo-jin), a talented doctor caught between career ambition and a genuine calling to save lives.

Gripped by the series’ realistic portrayal of a disaster and its aftermath, viewers were drawn to the characters’ emotional and ethical struggles. A particularly memorable scene showcases Hae-seong’s dedication, performing lifesaving surgery on the street surrounded by rubble, a testament to the doctors’ unwavering resolve. Akin to the best disaster movies, D-Day weaves together thrilling action with emotionally resonant storylines, exploring the complexities of human experiences and the professional challenges faced by its characters.

16

‘Doctors’ (2016)

Image via SBS TV

Yoo Hye-jung (Park Shin-hye) was a delinquent teenager until a compassionate teacher named Hong Ji-hong (Kim Rae-won) saw the intelligence beneath her tough exterior and inspired her to become a doctor. Years later, Hye-jung has advanced through the ranks to become a brilliant neurosurgeon, and Ji-hong is now her senior colleague at the same hospital. Their reunion is full of unspoken history, unresolved feelings, and professional rivalry, forcing both to confront complex medical cases and their emotional past.

Doctors shows a triumph of transformation and second chances, led by Park’s fierce, career-defining performance. Unlike in many medical dramas, where the female lead plays a supporting role, Hye-jung steals every scene with her intelligence, grit, and refusal to be pushed around. The romance between her and Hong is perfectly tense, but the drama never loses sight of its medical roots—neurosurgery cases are depicted with genuine suspense and detail. Hye-jung’s troubled childhood and hard-earned success are depicted in an emotionally satisfying tale of resilience, mentorship, and finding family in unexpected places.

Could the spark between former flames Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson be making a comeback? Their latest public appearance certainly has fans wondering.

Holmes and Jackson first captured hearts as an iconic couple on “Dawson’s Creek.” Their chemistry eventually extended beyond the screen, and while their real-life romance was short, the connection between them has endured for decades.

Now, after reuniting for a new project, the pair’s recent appearances together have reignited speculation that their relationship may be more than just friendship.

Over the weekend, Holmes and Jackson attended the premiere of their new film, “Happy Hours,” in New York City, where their interactions quickly became a talking point among fans.

In a video shared on X, the duo appeared especially affectionate as Jackson discussed the project and praised Holmes for her creativity. Jackson and the “Jack and Jill” actress locked hands as he reminisced about their time working together years back. 

“The time that we spent together when we were young is very precious to both of us,” Jackson said, placing their joined hands against his heart. “And [it] is, like, one of the core personal and professional relationships in my life,” he continued as Holmes responded with a warm smile. 

Jackson went on to share how meaningful it was to reconnect with Holmes after years apart and praised her for creating a space for them to work side by side again. 

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“You wrote this for us. You did the whole thing,” Jackson gushed about Holmes, who looked back at him lovingly. “So it was magical for me to be able to come back. And you waited for me, which I appreciated.”

Fans Speculate On Katie Holmes And Joshua Jackson’s Bond 

The pair’s appearance did not go unnoticed by fans who suggested that the affection on display hinted at feelings that have never fully faded.

One fan on X wrote, “These two, it’s a soul level love.” Another referenced the sitcom “New Girl,” joking, “This isn’t puppy love. It’s old -ss dog love.”

A third admirer called Holmes and Jackson “ultimate soulmates,” and a fourth described Jackson’s speech as a “true declaration of love.”

This observer pointed out that Jackson “didn’t let go of her hand for a second while answering the question,” while another argued that the pair “should date in real life” because “their chemistry is off the charts.”

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A seventh fan chimed in, “It has always been impossible to hide their chemistry and their special relationship beyond the cameras…and these words of Josh to Katie are the confirmation! NOW GET MARRIED, THANKS!”

Inside Katie Holmes And Joshua Jackson’s Close Relationship Over The Years 

Holmes and Jackson’s history dates back to the late 1990s, when they were romantically involved after meeting on the set of the soap opera. 

Over the years, the “Wonder Boys” star has spoken fondly about their relationship, once describing Jackson as her “first love” and calling the experience “incredible and indescribable.” She added that she felt lucky that he later became one of her closest friends.

Even after the series ended in 2003, their bond remained intact. The “Little Fires Everywhere”  actor previously admitted that although they don’t stay in constant contact, every reunion feels effortless because of their shared history.

“There’s always that, ‘I know, you know,’” the actor explained in a past interview, according to Us Weekly.

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Now their recent public appearances have sparked hopes of a romantic reunion. Holmes reportedly liked comments from one of her followers suggesting they should be a couple. 

Katie Holmes Shared A Secret Romance With Another Of Her ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Co-Stars 

Despite the speculation, both have had high-profile relationships since. Holmes dated Chris Klein, Tom Cruise, and later Jamie Foxx, Emilio Vitolo Jr., and Bobby Wooten III. 

However, The Blast reported that insiders revealed that Holmes was briefly with James Van Der Beek, who also acted in the show. 

Sources claimed that the two briefly dated in secret while filming in Wilmington, North Carolina. Holmes reportedly described James as her “teen love,” and although they tried to keep their relationship private, word eventually spread among the cast and crew.

However, the fling was short-lived, and they quickly realized they were better suited as friends.

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Joshua Jackson Sparked Romance Rumors With Ashley Simone

Jackson’s dating history has been equally high-profile. Following relationships with Diane Kruger and Jodie Turner-Smith, with whom he shares a daughter, the 47-year-old actor was recently linked to Simone Ashley.

Last year, the pair sparked dating speculation after they were photographed together looking particularly comfortable in each other’s company.

As The Blast reported, the images from the outing showed Jackson and Ashley in good spirits, moving side by side with an ease that suggested familiarity rather than a casual first meeting.

By Joshua Tyler
| Published 1 minute ago

The fantasy genre is too often overlooked, and it’s time that changed. Some of the best movies ever made have involved swords, magic, and wild creatures crossing lands beyond imagination. 

Fantasy is a big tent, so for this list we’re going to focus on the sword and sorcery of it all. That means no vampires, no magical nannies, and no steampunk zeppelins. To qualify for this ranking, a movie must have two things: magic and swords.

These are the twenty-four best sword & sorcery fantasy movies of all time.

24. Krull

Krull was the butt of everyone’s jokes for years, but it’s filled with wild creativity and charm. Enough to deserve a place on this list. Besides, it has the glaive, one of the coolest weapons ever created for any movie. 

Prince Colwyn races to rescue his bride from an alien fortress that literally moves across the landscape, backed by a band of outlaws and guided by a blind seer played by Freddie Jones. Along the way, you get cyclops, fire mares, shape-shifting enemies, and the iconic glaive. Everybody loves the glaive!

It’s messy, ambitious, and completely sincere. A movie where the sheer volume of ideas being thrown at the screen becomes the point.

23. Ladyhawke

Ladyhawke is a medieval fantasy that skips the usual bombast and instead builds something more romantic and enduring. Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer play cursed lovers. He’s a wolf by night, she’s a hawk by day, and they’re kept tragically out of sync by a vengeful bishop. They’re aided by Matthew Broderick as a quick-talking thief pulled into their orbit. 

The movie looks dark and gritty, but it’s actually fun and optimistic in its own way. Ladyhawke never quite got the reception it deserved when it was released in 1985. Reviews were mixed, and box office results were solid but not spectacular. Over time, it gained legitimate cult status, and it’s now celebrated as one of the best things about the 80s.

22. Legend

Dreamlike and unapologetically mythic, 1985’s Legend is Ridley Scott at his most visually indulgent, building a fairy-tale world that feels less like a setting and more like a living painting. Tom Cruise plays the forest-dwelling hero Jack, pulled into a battle to save light itself after darkness, embodied by the greatness of Tim Curry in a towering, iconic performance as the Lord of Darkness. 

Future Ferris Bueller star Mia Sara adds a fragile, otherworldly presence as the princess whose choices set everything in motion, but the real power of the film lies in its atmosphere, shaped by practical sets, elaborate creature design, and a sense of fantasy that feels ancient. 

21. Conan the Destroyer

A sequel that goes broader and more openly mythic, Conan the Destroyer (1984) trades some of the raw edge of its predecessor (a movie that might show up higher on this list) for a colorful, quest-driven adventure. Arnold Schwarzenegger returns as Conan, this time leading a ragtag party, including a thief, a wizard, and a reluctant princess, on a mission that quickly spirals into gods, monsters, and double-crosses. 

Grace Jones brings a striking, physical presence as the warrior Zula, while Wilt Chamberlain adds sheer size to the lineup. It works as a fast-moving fantasy ride, packed with practical creatures, oversized sets, and the kind of unapologetic sword-and-sorcery energy that defined the genre’s peak era.

20. Clash of the Titans

Long before CGI flattened everything into the same glossy blur, Clash of the Titans (1981) arrived as a handcrafted spectacle, directed by Desmond Davis and powered by the unmistakable work of effects legend Ray Harryhausen. 

The story tracks Perseus, played by Harry Hamlin, as he’s pushed through a gauntlet of gods and monsters (Medusa, the Kraken, and everything in between), while Laurence Olivier looms over it all as Zeus and Maggie Smith sharpens the edges as Thetis. 

Every creature feels built, every moment staged like myth carved into stone. It’s simple hero’s-journey storytelling, but delivered with enough visual imagination and analog charm that it still feels bigger than most modern attempts to do the same.

19. The Forbidden Kingdom

2008’s The Forbidden Kingdom is a glossy East-meets-West martial arts fantasy directed by Rob Minkoff that exists mostly as an excuse to finally put Jackie Chan and Jet Li in the same movie. The story follows an American teenager who gets magically transported to ancient China, where he teams up with Chan’s drunken warrior and Li’s stoic monk to return a mystical staff and free the Monkey King. 

Along the way, the film leans hard into fun martial-arts movie tropes like wire-fu fights, mythic villains, and a lot of destiny talk. It does that while staying accessible to Western audiences with a familiar fish-out-of-water structure. Instead of getting bogged down, the film leans into what works: fluid, inventive fight choreography, colorful world-building, and a sense of adventure that keeps things moving.

18. Dragonheart

Dragonheart is a 1996 medieval fantasy built around Dennis Quaid as Bowen, a knight turned dragon-slayer who’s given up on ideals after a dragon saves a future tyrant. That dragon, Draco, is voiced perfectly by Sean Connery, playing him as witty, tired, and more human than anyone else on screen. They team up to run a scam, faking fake dragon hunts for money. That works until the king, played by David Thewlis, proves too brutal to ignore. 

Draco was one of the first fully CG lead characters that actually felt present in scenes, built by Industrial Light & Magic using then-cutting-edge CGI and motion reference from Sean Connery’s performance. At the time, it was a major leap in making a digital creature carry real emotion and screen time, and for audiences, the first time they’d seen a dragon on screen that actually felt alive.

17. The Chronicles of Narnia

Four kids walk through a wardrobe and accidentally trigger a regime change in the 2005 Andrew Adamson adaptation of author C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

The Pevensie siblings land in a frozen fantasy world stuck under the White Witch’s control, where winter never ends, and dissent gets turned to stone. Suddenly, these outsiders are central to a war they barely understand, and there’s a lion, who seems to act a lot like Jesus. 

It’s a heavily structured, deliberate fantasy that did justice to the books, even if it doesn’t hold up quite as well now as it did back in the early 2000s. 

16. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

Based on the popular role-playing game it gets its name from, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves picks up after the adventuring party of Edvin the Bard, Holga the Barbarian, Simon the Sorcerer, Doric the Druid, and Forge the Thief were betrayed by the obviously evil wizard Sofina. 

Out for revenge, Evin and Holga get the band back together, go into an actual dungeon complete with a dragon, and pull off a fantastical heist. It failed at the box office thanks to a fan boycott centered on the company that owns the IP and had nothing to do with the movie itself. 

That’s a shame because Honor Among Thieves is great sword-and-sorcery fantasy. Whether you play the tabletop game or not, the comedy beats all and makes it a fun fantasy adventure everyone must see. 

15. Jason and the Argonauts

Despite its 1963 release, Jason and the Argonauts is a visual feast thanks to the brilliant, groundbreaking stop-motion effects of Ray Harryhausen. The film follows Jason as he assembles a crew of heroes and sails into dangerous territory to claim the Golden Fleece, encountering a series of episodic threats along the way. He faces down harpies, a living bronze giant, crashing cliffs, and the famous skeleton army. 

The plot is a delivery system for Harryhausen’s amazing set pieces, each designed to top the last, with gods quietly manipulating events in the background. 

14.  Willow

Released in 1988, Willow is a fantasy adventure built by director Ron Howard and producer George Lucas as a more traditional fairy-tale quest than the darker ’80s fantasy around it. The story follows Willow, a reluctant farmer and aspiring sorcerer, who gets pulled into protecting a prophesied baby destined to overthrow an evil queen.

He ends up paired with a rogue swordsman, Madmartigan (played by Val Kilmer), and the movie runs them through a familiar structure: travel, ambushes, magic encounters, and escalating confrontations with the queen’s forces. It leans on practical effects, creature work, and straightforward stakes, with Willow’s arc built around stepping up rather than discovering something hidden. It’s an accessible hero’s journey, but one with enough of a darker edge to keep it from feeling like pure kids’ fantasy.

13. Harry Potter

There are too many Harry Potter movies to put them all in one spot, and also I don’t want this list to be nothing but Harry Potter. Plus, it’s borderline whether Harry Potter really qualifies for a Sword & Sorcery fantasy list. But it’s such a juggernaut that I felt it deserved at least a mention.

So for this entry, I’m focusing on my favorite Potter movie, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. It may be the best-written of all the films, and it developed the visual palette used in the subsequent films, despite being the third entry in the series.

The movie shifts the tone darker and more controlled, following Harry as he returns to Hogwarts under the threat of escaped prisoner Sirius Black, who’s believed to be coming for him. What starts as a manhunt turns into a reveal-heavy mystery, flipping assumptions about who’s actually dangerous and why. 

It doesn’t really matter which Potter movie is your favorite; if you’re talking fantasy movies of any kind, even the more sword-focused ones, it deserves a place.

12. Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl

Turning a Disney amusement park ride into a movie shouldn’t have worked, but in 2003 director Gore Verbinski pulled it off with a once-in-a-lifetime performance from Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow and a willingness to embrace the inherent darkness of a proper pirate tale. 

The story follows blacksmith Will Turner, played by Orlando Bloom (the only actor to be in two entries on this list), teaming up with the unpredictable pirate Jack Sparrow to rescue Elizabeth Swann from Captain Barbossa and his crew. The twist is that Barbossa and his men aren’t just pirates; they’re cursed undead who can’t feel anything and can’t die. 

11. Excalibur

For many, 1981’s Excalibur is the ultimate movie version of the King Arthur legend. Director John Boorman leans all the way into the idea that this story is less history and more a fever dream. It tracks the rise and fall of King Arthur, from pulling the sword from the stone to building Camelot, and then watching it rot from within amid betrayal, lust, and power struggles.

The genius of Excalibur lies in the way it creates mood, prioritizing it over realism. The full Arthur cycle is compressed into one operatic, stylized film about how idealism creates its own downfall.

10. The NeverEnding Story

The NeverEnding Story begins in the real world, with Bastian, a lonely kid, being bullied and looking for an escape. Director Wolfgang Petersen’s 1984 movie only becomes a fantasy film as Bastian reads. 

He becomes tied to the fate of a collapsing fantasy world called Fantasia, inside which a young warrior named Atreyu is sent on a quest to stop a spreading force known as the Nothing, which is literally erasing existence. The story keeps folding back on the reader, blurring the line between fiction and reality, until Bastian himself becomes part of the narrative. 

It’s part adventure, part a story about imagination, and it leans hard on practical effects and big emotional swings to sell the idea that stories only survive if someone believes in them. After it’s over, you’ll be ready to say: I believe.

9. Stardust

While it’s based on the work of Neil Gaiman, director Matthew Vaughn’s 2007 adaptation of Stardust avoids the infamous writer’s more macabre instincts to create a fantasy tale of wonder and nobler adventure.

The story starts in a quiet English village where a wall separates the real world from a magical one. A young man, Tristan Thorn, promises to retrieve a fallen star to win a woman who barely cares about him. When he crosses the wall, he finds the star isn’t an object but a woman, Yvaine (played by Claire Danes), and suddenly everyone wants her.

Witches need her heart to stay young. Princes hunt her to claim a throne. Tristan just wants to drag her home as proof he can deliver. What starts as a transaction turns into a chase across a world that keeps escalating in danger and scale.

8. The Hobbit Trilogy

The Hobbit trilogy was a project Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson didn’t want to make. When he learned Hollywood was making it with him or without him, he jumped in to save the legacy he’d built with The Lord of the Rings and gave it everything he had left in the tank.

It faced criticism because it’s not as good as The Lord of the Rings. But then nothing is as good as Lord of the Rings (more on that in a minute), and everything seems lacking in comparison.

It’s still a deeply beautiful, complex, and interesting sword-fighting fantasy tale. The dwarves sing a mournful song in Bilbo’s Hobbit hole, and it carries them on a journey across Middle-earth to face a dragon and an army. It’s not as good as it should have been, but The Hobbit is better than it has any right to be, and it’s better than most things that don’t take place in Middle-earth. 

7. Highlander

Highlander is a 1986 fantasy in which immortals roam history, locked into ritual combat where the only way to win is beheading. In modern New York and across centuries of flashbacks, Connor MacLeod slowly learns the rules of a secret war that’s been going on forever, all building toward “there can be only one.” 

The movie is famous for its style, Queen on the soundtrack, MTV editing, and an iconic villain performance from Clancy Brown. Despite its R rating and frequent head decapitating, Highlander feels more dangerous than it actually is. That’s part of its charm and also why it has endured.

6. Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Monty Python and the Holy Grail is one of the funniest movies of all time, and it’s barely a movie at all. It’s the pinnacle of the iconic comedy troupe Monty Python’s style, and there’s never been anything like it before or since. 

It begins when King Arthur is sent by God to find the Holy Grail in medieval England. It ends with King Arthur being arrested by modern-day British police, even though no time travel is involved. That arrest sequence, by the way, actually happened; the police showed up on the scene and arrested them for filming without a permit. So they threw it in the movie and used it as their ending. 

Holy Grail is a fantasy movie built on refusing to behave like a normal story, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Ni!  

5. Hook

Hook begins with the story of Peter Banning, a man who is everything Peter Pan was never supposed to become: a corporate lawyer, glued to his phone, too busy to notice his own kids slipping away. When his kids are snatched out of their beds and dragged to Neverland by Captain Hook, Peter Banning follows, but the problem is that he’s forgotten he was ever Peter Pan. 

The Lost Boys don’t buy him; their current leader, Rufio, flat-out rejects him, and Hook toys with him like a washed-up relic. What should have been a rescue mission turns into a midlife crisis with swords, as a man grapples with what really matters to him in the world. To save his kids, Peter has to relearn imagination, rediscover joy, and essentially undo adulthood long enough to become the thing he abandoned.

Taking place on massive, lovingly crafted sets filmed with all the magic peak Steven Spielberg can muster, it’s a perfect story for every adult facing down the stress of middle age, while also a family story filled with all the magic and wonder kids need to fire up their own imaginations. 

4. The Wizard of Oz

L. Frank Baum’s iconic Oz books were once revered in the same way the books of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis are. Over the years, that’s somehow been overshadowed by the 1939 film adaptation of his work, even though Baum’s books are better than the movie. 

Yet the movie itself is one of the best fantasy stories ever told, using what by modern-day standards would be viewed as only very rudimentary techniques. Despite the unkind rigors of aging, it’s still fun to watch.

Released near the end of the Great Depression, the film takes a black-and-white Kansas defined by exhaustion and hardship and explodes it into the impossible color of Oz, creating one of the most famous transitions in movie history. The story follows Dorothy, a lonely farm girl swept into a fantasy world where every strange encounter reflects fears and desires pulled from her real life back home. It defined what big-screen fantasy could feel like. 

3. The Princess Bride

The Princess Bride begins with a grandfather reading a story to his sick grandson, then unfolds into a fantasy adventure filled with sword fights, revenge plots, kidnappings, monsters, and true love. What makes the film totally unique is the way it’s delivered, with a heavy layer of dry self-awareness that never turns cynical. 

Westley’s quest to reunite with Buttercup is intentionally simple, allowing the movie to focus on its characters rather than complicated lore. Every supporting player feels iconic because the film gives them instantly memorable personalities and dialogue, from Inigo Montoya’s obsession with vengeance to Vizzini’s constant claims of “inconceivable.” 

Instead of trying to make fantasy feel realistic, The Princess Bride embraces the artificiality of storybook adventure and turns that sincerity into meaning.

2. Conan the Barbarian

1982’s Conan the Barbarian tells the origin of a warrior forged by loss, slavery, and violence, moving through a brutal fantasy world ruled by cults, warlords, and gods that don’t care. Director John Milius presents Conan’s story as destiny rather than spectacle. 

The plot is classic pulp: revenge, survival, and power taken through strength. It believes, fully, in all the values it espouses. As such, despite its brutality, no film on this list feels more pure, innocent, and untouched. 

The movie follows Conan, past a child enslaved after his parents are murdered by a snake cult led by Thulsa Doom. He grows into a massive warrior shaped entirely by pain, survival, and violence. 

Arnold Schwarzenegger barely speaks for long stretches because the movie understands his presence is the point. Conan is s a human weapon trying to carve meaning out of revenge. The result is a fantasy movie that feels heavy, dangerous, and strangely mythic in a way most modern fantasy never does.

1. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

There’s an argument to be made that The Lord of the Rings may be Hollywood’s peak. That everything the filmmaking art form had been building towards led to this one moment in cinema, and that since The Return of the King, everything in the world of moving pictures has been on a slow, steady downward slide.

Whether you believe that or not, the notion that this is a serious discussion large numbers of people in the world are having is a solid indicator of just how good The Lord of the Rings trilogy is. More than just the best fantasy movies of all time, director Peter Jackson’s three movies are among the greatest things ever put to film, extended editions and all.

It’s the greatest ever application of special effects techniques, appearing at the exact moment when CGI had progressed to the point to give us a character like Gollum, while at the same time practical effects and hard work were still frequently used enough to create the incredible, hand-built artistry of Tolkien’s Middle-earth as an actual place the film’s actors could walk around in. 

The story is based on one of the greatest ever works of fiction, and the story which basically invented the entire modern fantasy genre. Without Tolkien’s work, most of the other fantasy movies on this list wouldn’t even have existed. Jackson kept the heart of Tolkien’s story, while adapting it for screen in a feat most thought impossible before he pulled it off.

The cast is one of the greatest ensembles ever assembled, and they, along with everyone working on the film, were as much fans of Tolkien’s world as the rest of us. The entire production was locked away for years in an isolated location, doing nothing but living and breathing Tolkien. Nothing like this, nothing on this scale, or with this much passion, has ever been made before, and it almost certainly never will be again. 

All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us. If you’ve any sense, you’ll spend a lot of it watching and rewatching all three movies in The Lord of the Rings. Extended Editions, of course.