NEEL Gel skips the usual cosmetic-industry playbook for a biotech approach built around a single peptide.

Most skincare lines start with a formulator and a marketing brief. NEEL Gel started with longevity researchers at Yuvan Research Inc. and a peptide that’s been drawing attention in genomics circles for reasons that have nothing to do with wrinkles. The company markets the gel less on cosmetic promises and more on a claim that’s unusual for the beauty aisle: that it targets biological aging at the gene level. It’s patented technology, and its most notable daily user is a name genomics researchers would recognize — Stanford Genetics professor Dr. Michael Snyder.

The Peptide Behind It

The formula centers on GHK-Cu, a naturally occurring peptide the body produces less of with age. Interest in it accelerated after researchers used gene-expression data from the Broad Institute — a joint MIT and Harvard research center — to show that GHK-Cu could shift the activity of roughly a third of the genes analyzed toward patterns associated with younger tissue.

3

Turning that data point into a usable product took Yuvan Research three years. GHK-Cu is unstable in the presence of oxygen, which is a real problem for a skincare product that has to survive a shelf, a bathroom cabinet, and repeated air exposure every time it’s opened. The company’s answer was to move away from standard jars and tubes toward an applicator engineered to limit air contact and preserve the peptide’s potency.

3

What the Clinical Trial Found

Rather than relying on lab data alone, Yuvan Research put the gel through an Institutional Review Board–approved clinical trial, run by a professor of dermatology at Royal Victoria Hospital, McGill University. Twenty-one middle-aged women used the gel daily for three months; before-and-after ultrasound imaging measured the change in their skin. On average, collagen fiber density increased by 28 percent — a meaningful figure given that collagen makes up 60 to 70 percent of the skin’s structure.

The Snyder Connection

The product’s profile got a boost from a name well known in genomics: Dr. Michael Snyder, director of Stanford’s Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine. In a video interview produced by Yuvan Research, Snyder says he’s used NEEL Gel daily for more than two years and describes it as one of the only skincare products in his personal routine, alongside a moisturizer. It’s worth being clear about the source here — the interview is company-produced, not independent reporting on Snyder’s routine — but Snyder is a real, prominent figure in the genomics field, and his willingness to put his name behind the product is notable regardless of who filmed the conversation.

Beyond Skincare

3

Yuvan Research is now exploring GHK-Cu outside topical use. An early trial, led by a hospital gastroenterology department, is testing an oral form of the peptide alongside another compound for inflammatory bowel disease. So far, four patients have reportedly seen their colitis go into remission within two months of treatment. That’s a very small, uncontrolled sample with no published data yet — worth watching, but nowhere near evidence that oral GHK-Cu treats IBD, and not something anyone should act on outside of a monitored clinical trial.

For now, Yuvan Research’s stated focus remains where it started: developing science-backed approaches to the biological mechanisms behind skin aging.

Lil Nas X is facing a heartbreaking loss as he continues navigating a deeply personal chapter in his life. The rapper and singer took to social media with an emotional message on Saturday, letting fans know that someone especially close to him had passed away.

RELATED: Lil Nas X Shares Mental Health Update After Spending Months In Rehab Following His Arrest (VIDEO)

Lil Nas X Mourns His Mom With Heartfelt Tribute

The ‘Old Town Road’ hitmaker shared throwback photos of his mother, Tameka Hill, alongside a brief but emotional tribute. “RIP TO THE BADDEST EVER! LOVE U FOREVER, MOMMY,” Lil Nas X, 27, wrote. “This one’s gonna hurt.” Further details surrounding Hill’s death had not been publicly revealed at the time of publication. Us Weekly reports that Hill is survived by Lil Nas X and her multiple other children.

Roomies Rally Around Rapper Amid Loss

Folks quickly ran to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section to show Lil Nas X some love, and the comments definitely started rolling in. Some people pointed out that he’s been going through a lot lately, while others simply shared their condolences and sent him prayers during this difficult time. Meanwhile, a few folks couldn’t help but agree that his mama was definitely a baddie.

One Instagram user @ryondanyell_ said, “This is a different type of pain 🙏🏽 My condolences.”

This Instagram user @forever_mistah added, “May God protect him and strengthen his mental capacity. 🙏🏾”

And, Instagram user @cho_lowww wrote, “D*mn & he just got himself back on track my condolences smh man”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @keisheraa shared, “oh y’all couldn’t take her in that first picture😍”

While Instagram user @diam0ndm0nae commented, “she definitely look like the baddest”

Finally, Instagram user @crystiannadances said, “😢😢😢 I hope she got clean and made amends with him before she passed 💔💔💔”

He Previously Opened Up About Their Complicated Relationship

While Lil Nas X has rarely spoken publicly about his relationship with his mother, he previously acknowledged that the two had a complicated dynamic. In a 2020 interview, the artist, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, said his mother struggled with addiction and that they weren’t particularly close.

“I never really talk about my mom. She’s an addict, so we don’t have the closest relationship,” he said at the time. He also explained that he had attempted to help his mother but that things “didn’t quite work out,” while emphasizing that there was still love between them. Hill’s death also comes during a significant period in Lil Nas X’s own life. The Grammy-winning artist has been open with fans about his mental health and sobriety journey following a stint in inpatient treatment in late 2025 for undisclosed “issues.”

RELATED: Lil Nas X Speaks Out As His Lawyer Seeks To Move His Felony Battery Case To Diversion Program (UPDATE)

Prime Video is one of the most popular streaming services around right now.

A big reason why is the sheer breadth and volume of films it offers.

From summer blockbusters like Masters of the Universe with Nicholas Galitzine to compelling dramas like He Went That Away with Jacob Elordi, the Amazon platform has every movie for every taste.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Advertisement

Every month, like fellow streamers Netflix, HBO Max and Hulu get rid of some of its content to make room for newer selections.

Watch With Us has compiled a list of all the movies, shows and specials that will expire on August 31.

Prime Video Movies and Shows Leaving on August 31:

12 Angry Men (1997)
52 Pick-Up (1986)
The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
Air (2015) 5.1
All Is True (4K UHD) (2019)
All the Right Moves (1983)
Allan Quatermain and the Lost City of Gold (1987)
American Buffalo (1996)
Animal Kingdom (2010)
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. (2023)
Beach Blanket Bingo (1965)
Assassination (1987)
At Any Price (2012)
Avenging Force (1986)
Backdraft 2 (2019)
Beach Party (1963)
Beach Blanket Bingo (1965)
Bikini Beach (1964)
Muscle Beach Party (1964)
The Believers (1987)
The Berlin Affair (1985)
The Best Man (1964)
Best Seller (1987)
The Big Trip (2020)
Bingo (1991)
Bio-Dome (1996)
The Black Stallion (1979)
The Black Stallion Returns (1983)
Bolero (1984)
Bora Bora (1970)
Bottoms (2023)
Breathless (1983)
Broken Horses (2015)
Brooklyn’s Finest (2010)
Bulletproof Monk (2003)
Cactus Flower (1969)
Capote (2005)
A Cinderella Story (2004)
The Cleanse (2018)
Coffy (1973)
The Craigslist Killer (2011)
Cruel Intentions 2 (2001)
Cruel Intentions 3 (2004)
Dark Blue (2003)
Daybreakers (4K UHD) (2010)
Deadly Intent (1988)
The Death and Life of Bobby Z (2007)
The Detonator (2006)
The Devil’s Tomb (2009)
Diary of a Madman (1963)
Disturbing Behavior (1998)
The Dogs of War (1981)
Dream Lover (1994)
Epic Movie (2007)
Exodus (1960)
Extract (2009)
Eye Of The Needle (1981)
Fallen (2017)
Fiddler on the Roof (1971)
A Fistful of Dollars (1967)
For a Few Dollars More (1967)
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1967)
The Magnificent Seven (1960)
Return of the Magnificent Seven (1966)
Guns of the Magnificent Seven (1969)
The Magnificent Seven Ride (1972)
The Final Girls (2015)
The Final Option (1983)
Finding Your Feet (2018)
A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
Fled (1996)
Foxy Brown (1974)
Freaks of Nature (2015)
The Fuller Brush Man (1948)
Gas Pump Girls (1985)
Gator (1976)
Gemini Man (2019)
Getting Even with Dad (1994)
Going Steady (1958)
Good Boy! (2003)
A Good Person (2023)
Grace: The Possession (2014)
The Grudge (2004)
The Grudge 2 (2006)
Hardwired (2009) 4.7
The Heavenly Kid (1985)
Hero And The Terror (1988)
Hostel (2006)
Hostel Part II (2007)
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
The Human Contract (2009)
The Hurt Locker (2009)
Ice Castles (2010)
The Idolmaker (1980)
Illegally Yours (1988)
Impulse (2008)
It Should Happen To You (1954)
Jinxed! (1982)
Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling (1986)
Johnny Be Good (1988)
Judgment at Nuremberg (1961)
Just Add Water (2008)
Landscape with Invisible Hand (2023)
Lars and the Real Girl (2007)
The Last Hurrah (1958)
The Last Time (2007)
Leaving Las Vegas (1996)
Leviathan (1989)
Little Bitches (2018)
London (2006)
Loser (2000)
The Lost (2012)
Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (2022)
The Madness of King George (1994)
Magic in the Water (1995)
Malone (1987)
Man Down (2021, s/b 2016)
The Man in the Moon (1991)
Mardi Gras: Spring Break (2010)
The Marine 6: Close Quarters (2018)
Married Life (2008)
Mata Hari (1985)
The Mean Season (1985)
Moonfall (2022)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Mr. 3000 (2004)
Nana (1983)
Navy SEALS (1990)
The Nut Job (2014)
The Octagon (1980)
Once Upon a Crime (1992)
Original Sin (2001)
The Package (1989)
Patty Hearst (1988)
The Phantom Of The Open (2022)
The Power of One (1992)
A Prayer For The Dying (1987)
The Protégé (2021)
Public Enemies (2009)
Pumpkinhead: Ashes To Ashes (2006)
Puss in Boots (2010, s/b 1988)
Race the Sun (1996)
Regression (2016)
Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)
Retreat (2011)
Road House (1989)
Roadhouse 66 (1984)
Ronin (1998)
The Rosary Murders (1987)
Runaway Jury (2003)
S.W.A.T.: Under Siege (2017)
Saved! (2004)
The Seagull (2018)
Secret Admirer (1985)
SLC Punk 4K [Ultra HD] (1999)
The Solid Gold Cadillac (1956)
Some Girls (1988)
Southpaw (2015)
The Square (2009)
Against the Dark (2009)
Flight of Fury (2007)
Pistol Whipped (2008)
Urban Justice (2007)
St. Trinian’s (2009)
Stigmata (1999)
Still of the Night (1982)
Stormy Monday (1988)
Strange Invaders (1983)
Sword Of The Valiant: The Legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (1984)
The Take (2016)
Tell It To The Judge (1949)
The Care Bears Movie (1985)
The Cutting Edge (1992)
The Cutting Edge: Going for the Gold (2006)
The Cutting Edge 3: Chasing the Dream (2008)
The Cutting Edge 4: Fire and Ice (2010)
The Tenth Man (1988)
Three Amigos! (1986)
Three Thousand Years of Longing (2022)
Thumbsucker (2005)
Ticking Clock (2011)
To Live and Die in L.A. (1985)
Tropic Thunder (2008)
True Confessions (1981)
Urban Legends: Bloody Mary (2005)
Waiting… (2005)
Walking Tall: Lone Justice (2007)
Warm Bodies (2013)
Warrior (2011)
Whatever It Takes (2000)
Where’s My Roy Cohn? (2019)
White Lightning (1973)
Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody (2022)
Without Warning (1980)
Witness For The Prosecution (1982)
Wolf Creek (2005)
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
World War Z (2013)
Wrong Turn (2021)
The Wronged Man (2010)
Yellow (2007)
Yentl (1984)
Zombie Strippers (2008)
1984 (1985)
Apple (1980)
Betrayed (1988)
The Betrayed (2008)
Blonde Ambition (2008)
Bones and All (2022)
The Boost (1988)
Born of War (2014)
Bowling for Columbine (2002)
A Breed Apart (1984)
Carbon Copy (1981)
Charlie Bartlett (2008)
Club Fed (1990)
Cold Heaven (1992)
Crazy Legs (1987)
Crime Against Joe (1956)
The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course (2002)
Dance With Me Henry (1956)
Defense Play (1988)
Deja Vu (1985)
Desert Sands (1955)
Detective School Dropouts (1986)
Don’t Worry, We’ll Think of a Title (1966)
Down Twisted (1987)
Dungeonmaster (1985)
Eureka (1981)
Exterminator 2 (1984)
Extremities (1986)
The Fake (1953)
Fashion Model (1945)
Finders Keepers (1967)
Fool For Love (1985)
Forbidden Love (1982)
A Force of One (1979)
Foxfire Light (1983)
Friday Foster (1975)
The Further Adventures of Tennessee Buck (1988)
Gidget Goes To Rome (1963)
The Golden Seal (1983)
Gor (1988)
Grievous Bodily Harm (1988)
Hannibal Brooks (1969)
Hansel and Gretel (1987)
The Happy Ending (1969)
Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man (1991)
Harsh Times (2006)
Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush (1968)
The Hotel New Hampshire (1984)
House of 1,000 Dolls (1968)
House of Games (1987)
The Informers (2009)
Kalifornia (1993)
Kid Colter (1985)
The Killer Is Loose (1956)
The King of Comedy (1983)
Kings Go Forth (1958)
Koyaanisqatsi (1982)
Powaqqatsi (1988)
Lady Of Vengeance (1957)
Last Embrace (1979)
The Last Time I Saw Archie (1961)
Lions for Lambs (2007)
Little Norse Prince Valiant (1970)
Longshot (1986)
Love Field (1993)
The Loves of Carmen (1948)
Making Mr. Right (1987)
The Marsh (2007)
Messenger of Death (1988)
Meteor (1979)
Million Dollar Madness (1986)
The Mod Squad (1999)
Much Ado About Nothing (1993)
The Naked Cage (1986)
The Naked Face (1985)
New Year’s Evil (1980)
Ninja Vengeance (1992)
Nutcracker: The Motion Picture (1986)
Outpost in Morocco (1949)
Penitentiary (1980)
Penitentiary 2 (1982)
Platinum Blonde (1931)
Platoon Leader (1988)
The Pope of Greenwich Village (1984)
Private Valentine: Blonde & Dangerous (2009)
Race for the Yankee Zephyr (1984)
The Ranch (2004)
Rappin’ (1985)
Romantic Comedy (1983)
Samaritan: The Mitch Snyder Story (1986)
Savage Weekend (1979)
Separate Ways (1981)
Shake Hands with the Devil (1959)
Shanghai Surprise (1986)
She (1985)
Sheba, Baby (1975)
Showgirls (1995)
Slam Dance (1987)
Sleepover (2004)
Snow White (1989)
Solarbabies (1986)
Summer Heat (1987)
Sunnyside (1979)
Survival Game (1987)
Taffin (1988)
The Lodger (2008)
A Man Called Otto (2023)
The Mist (2007)
The Notebook (2004)
Only Angels Have Wings (1939)
The Secret of My Success (1987)
Somewhere in Queens (2023)
The Talk of the Town (1942)
Till (2022)
Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
Green Room (2016) 6
Janet Planet (2024)
Low Tide (2019)
Red Rocket (2021)
Revenge of the Green Dragons (2014)
Stars at Noon (2022)
Woodshock (2017)
Zola (2021)
Ten Seconds to Hell (1959)
Those Lips Those Eyes (1980)
Tough Guys Don’t Dance (1987)
The Town That Dreaded Sundown (2014)
Under Fire (1983)
Underground Aces (1980)
Vicious Lips (1986)
Viper (1988)
Visit to a Chief’s Son (1974)
Von Richthofen and Brown (1971)
Welcome to L.A. (1976)
We’ll Never Have Paris (2015)
The Whales of August (1987)
The Wicked Lady (1983)
Windows (1980)
The Wizard of Loneliness (1988)
Zarak (1956)
The Broken Star (1956)
The Fighting Marshal (1931)
Fort Bowie (1958)
The Great Scout & Cathouse Thursday (1976)
Gun Brothers (1956)
The Kid (2019)
More Dead Than Alive (1969)
Outlaw Trail (1944)
Overland Pacific (1954)
Posse (1993)
Support Your Local Sheriff (1969)
Support Your Local Gunfighter (1971)
Surrounded (2023)
Wyoming Renegades (1955)
The 3 Worlds of Gulliver (1960)

Feature-length animation is one of the most impressive and wildly expressive forms of storytelling that cinema has to offer, with such a massive variety and creative possibilities that have made it a deeply compelling industry for over a hundred years. However, just as there are many deeply impressive works of art made within the medium of animation, there are also many notoriously abysmal animated films that have wasted the potential of the art form in their failures.

From painfully inadequate sequels attempting to cash in on the success of actually great animated movies to outright bad cash-grab ideas, a bad animated movie is certainly easy to spot, as the animation quality alone is often enough to deter audiences. However, to be one of the absolute worst animated movies in film history, a bad animated film has to go steps beyond, not just being inadequate in its filmmaking, but actively terrible from conception all the way to execution.

10

‘The Emoji Movie’ (2017)

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

The Emoji Movie is one of those laughably out-of-touch concepts that any regular person could tell was a terrible idea, yet thanks to “appealing to the younger generation”, it somehow was enticing enough to Sony Animation Studios. This empty rage bait film certainly tried to tap into a trend of 2010s culture, but went about it in the worst way possible, completely overestimating how much regular people actually cared about Emoji as a concept.

However, this type of corporately commercialized animated movie has found success before, as it clearly is following in the footsteps of a genuine animated masterpiece like The Lego Movie. However, there is no soul or passion to be found in The Emoji Movie, instead being a barrage of bright colors, egregious product placement, and some of the most banal, unfunny jokes possible. In terms of higher-budget studio animated movies of the modern era, it’s hard to imagine a film worse than The Emoji Movie.

9

‘The Nine Lives of Fritz the Cat’ (1974)

Ralph Bakshi‘s Fritz the Cat was far from a perfect animated movie, but it’s carved out a genuine niche for itself over the years thanks to its shocking X-rated content as one of the first prominent examples of a raunchy animated experience designed for adults. The greatest long-lasting strength of the film is the vision and distinct style of Bakshi’s filmmaking, so the concept of a sequel without the involvement of either Bakshi or original comic author Robert Crumb is already jarring.

The Nine Lives of Fritz the Cat is one of the bastardized sequels in the animation world, completely removing any of the charm and distinct strengths of the original film and feeling like a watered-down, neutered version of the previous film. This cash grab sequel simply doesn’t have the soul or heart to really be worthwhile, as while it may not be as controversial as the original film, this also makes it much more forgettable.

8

‘Belle’s Magical World’ (1998)

Image via Buena Vista Home Entertainment

Once the advent of the home video market allowed for smaller-scale, cheaper animated films to find an audience without needing to release in theaters, Disney found a lot of lucrative success in creating cheap sequels to their classic films, entirely relying on their reputation. However, among the many terrible Disney movies that sprung up during this trend, Belle’s Magical World is easily the laziest, most poorly executed sequel that the studio has ever released.

This anthology film, from its very conception, was created for no reason other than to siphon potential profits from Disney fans looking for more enjoyment out of the Beauty and the Beast brand, with this releasing only months after the previous sequel, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas. It’s a lazy, poorly animated stitching together of 3 loosely connected stories that were originally created for a potential Beauty and the Beast TV show before being reworked into this incredibly forgettable film.

7

‘Foodfight!’ (2012)

Image via Viva Pictures

Due to the inherent difficulties and technical undertaking that animation as a medium requires, production issues and delays can be that much more detrimental to an animated film, with one of the most prominent examples being the grocery store brand adventure film Foodfight. Originally planned for a 2003 release date, a painful production kept the film from reaching audiences until 2011, by which point every aspect of the film had soured and curdled like a carton of milk that expired years ago.

It certainly didn’t help that the core premise of the film was never anything worthwhile to begin with, as simply throwing a bunch of commercial mascots on screen and telling a generic mystery story was never going to be all that effective. This, combined with some laughably bad animation and obnoxious voice acting, quickly made the film one of the most infamous animated movies ever made and an absolute failure, costing tens of millions of dollars and getting next to no returns.

6

‘Delgo’ (2008)

Image via Freestyle Releasing

Yet another animated film that was made a victim of a disastrously long development cycle, Delgo took nearly a decade to release after starting development in 1999, yet still managed to be one of the most generic and uninteresting animated fantasy movies ever. It’s a near-unwatchable animated film for a multitude of reasons, although most prominently because of the unsavory visuals and incredibly boring storytelling.

The film fundamentally lacks any of the core elements that actually make original animated fantasy worlds so compelling, simply hoping that if they throw enough lore and fantastical elements on-screen, then it will come together into something watchable by the end. However, as a final product, the film acts as nothing more than a waste of its $40 million budget and is often considered one of the largest box-office bombs of the 2000s. The only remaining legacy that the film has is connected to its abject failure, as there truly is nothing worthy of note about the actual content of the film itself.

5

‘Animal Farm’ (2025)

Image via Angel Studios

Advertisement

Finding success in adapting classic novels has been a timeless tactic for animated films for generations, with George Orwell‘s masterpiece Animal Farm even having a half-decent 2D animated adaptation less than a decade after the novella was released. However, over 70 years after the previous animated adaptation, Andy Serkis‘s modern take on Animal Farm butchers the classic to a point of being nearly unrecognizable. It turns a timeless classic into a barrage of pop culture jokes and misaligned messaging that actively works against the messaging of the original story.

Its failures are so brazen and so overwhelming that it left a searing and aggressive impact on audiences since its announcement, yet the final film managed to be even worse than the lowest expectations placed upon it. Its new additions feel cheap and actively distracting, while its attempts at directly adapting scenes from the original story are undercut by an outwardly ineffective execution.

4

‘The Legend of the Titanic’ (1999)

Image via Mondo TV

Advertisement

After James Cameron‘s Titanic became the highest-grossing movie in the world, a wide array of different studios attempted to cash in on its success by creating cheap knockoffs, hoping to ride the wave of Titanic interest. This managed to somehow translate to multiple animated Titanic movies, yet the worst of the bunch is easily The Legend of the Titanic, as it’s the only one that tried to sanitize the disaster story so much that nobody actually dies on the Titanic.

This moral failure of the film manages to be the tip of the iceberg in terms of its wild plot inclusions, as it also features a side plot of talking rat immigrants, a criminal gang of sharks working with humans that caused the iceberg, and a giant talking octopus that saves everyone aboard the ship. It’s a maddening experience that manages to get more chaotic as it goes on, although this chaos only serves to make the film that much worse and near-incomprehensible.

3

‘Ratatoing’ (2007)

Image via Vídeo Brinquedo

Advertisement

The concept of a “mockbuster” that directly copies and attempts to siphon the success of an already existing popular film is wildly rampant in the world of feature-length animation, as it’s easy to trick young children who aren’t aware that what they are watching is a cheap ripoff. Brazilian animation studio Video Brinquedo was one of the most infamous in this regard, with the face of their outright deception being Ratatoing, a blatant riff on Pixar’s Ratatouille.

The only real similarity that these films actually share is that they both feature a rat who loves to cook, as Ratatoing instead tells a strange story of a famous rat chef and his friends going off on missions to steal ingredients, only for his scheme to be uncovered and put at risk by a group of nosy customers. Complete with animation that would feel outdated even if it were released in the 90s, Ratatoing at times feels like a strange hallucination instead of an actual cinematic experience released for purchase on DVD.

2

‘The Christmas Brigade’ (1999)

Director: Michael DeVitto

Advertisement

It took a great deal of time for other studios to meet the standard set by Pixar with their groundbreaking 3D animated movies in the 90s, with many of the other attempts at 3D animation having aged exceptionally poorly as a result. However, even in the era in which The Christmas Brigade released, it wouldn’t be a stretch to call the film a fundamental failure in the medium of feature-length animation. The 3D models are low-quality, and the animation is constantly glitching, with many characters simply flying through walls and clipping through the scenery to the point where it was actually made a plot point in the film.

Acting as a sequel to the 22-minute short film The Christmas Light, The Christmas Brigade does everything in its power to pad its 72-minute runtime. The actual main content of the film largely ends after 40 minutes, with the final 32 minutes being a combination of CGI characters singing Christmas Carols and playing the entire runtime of the original 22-minute short, now with a commentary from the characters in-universe. It’s a film that, at its core, is emblematic of the technological advancement that 3D animation has undergone since the 90s.

1

‘Finding Jesus’ (2020)

Image via WOWNow Entertainment

Advertisement

All of the other films on this could, even at their worst, make a feigned argument of genuine attempts being made to create something watchable that could be enjoyed by someone, even if it required that someone to have low standards. However, it’s difficult to imagine a single person who could find enjoyment in watching Finding Jesus from beginning to end, as it’s one of the most boring, lazily constructed insults to the medium of animation that has ever been made.

This faith-based riff on Finding Nemo sees a duo of fish friends traveling across the sea to hear stories of faith and joy about the love of god and the kindness of Jesus Christ. It should be stated that this film’s failures have nothing to do with it being a story centered around Christianity and everything to do with the fact that it uses only a handful of shots of original animation and repeats these same shots for 69 minutes straight. You get the gist of the film by the first 5 minutes, leaving the remaining 64 minutes to be an agonizing act of tedium and the cinematic equivalent of watching a computer screensaver while listening to the world’s most boring audiobook.

Advertisement

Finding Jesus

Advertisement

Release Date

December 29, 2020

Runtime

69 minutes

Advertisement

Director

Jason Wright

Advertisement

Producers

Karl Ireland

Advertisement

• 

  KJ Schrock

  Professor Shark / Boo Cakes / Mr Sushi (voice)

  Advertisement
• 

  Angie Gillespie

  Narrator / Joy (voice)

  Advertisement
• 

  Victor Merchan

  Henry (voice)

• 

  Sarah Taylor

  Advertisement

  Muggles / Delfi / Scales / Snaps (voice)

Advertisement

Advertisement

Melanie Moreno was one of the fan-favorite girlies to come out of ‘Love Island USA’ Season 8. She even placed third alongside Sincere Rhea during the finale. Since leaving the villa, Melanie has gone from juggling three jobs to gaining millions of followers. She’s also been hitting red carpets and serving looks along the way.

After placing third alongside Sincere Rhea during the finale, life outside the villa has brought plenty of new experiences and attention. As she navigates her newfound fame, the 24-year-old is still figuring things out along the way. Melanie recently sat down with Vulture to discuss life after the villa, her relationship with Sincere, future goals, and more.

RELATED: Carl & Aniya Share Their Relationship Status Following ‘Love Island USA’ Season 8 Finale (WATCH)

Melanie Moreno Talks Life After The Villa, Sincere Rhea & Navigating The Backlash

On Thursday, Melanie’s latest feature with Vulture was released, along with stunning photos of the reality star. She revealed that she and Sincere aren’t rushing to put a title on their relationship.

“We’re not exclusive, we’re not boyfriend-girlfriend. I’m also not in a rush to get that title. I know how he feels about me, but I think I just want to take it day by day.”

Melanie also reflected on the criticism she received after leaving the villa and continuing her relationship with Sincere. She described her post-villa life as a mix of “happiness and hell.” During the season, several brands even offered Melanie gifts and money if she ended things with Sincere. She admitted the attention made it difficult to publicly share their relationship.

The reality star stated, “Everybody was free to post their couple and be in this relationship, but I couldn’t because everybody would come for me and call me names for it.”

Still, Melanie has maintained a sense of humor about some of the show’s viral moments. She even purchased a T-shirt featuring a meme of her wide-eyed smile. However, she made it clear that she draws the line when the jokes turn into bashing.“Why are you being so mean to us? Like, it was a show, and yeah, you didn’t like a lot of our decisions. But we entertained you for a summer.”

Outside the villa, Melanie and Sincere have continued to spend time together and go on dates. Their outings have included riding swan-shaped paddle boats at Echo Park and getting ice cream.

Sincere currently lives in New Jersey and could eventually make the move to Los Angeles. However, Melanie said living together isn’t part of the plan. Stating, “Me and him wouldn’t move in together.” For now, Melanie wants time to experience dating Sincere in real life rather than inside the villa, adding, “I understand why people want better for me. I want better for me. Give me a sec.”

Social Media Reacts 

Many gathered under The Shade Room Teens’ post to react to Melanie’s latest interview with Vulture. While some viewers defended her relationship with Sincere, others shared different opinions on where the two currently stand.

Instagram user @jordan_spiva wrote,”We all had that guy who we had to stop telling our friends about cause we knew they were gonna yell at us. Unfortunately her situation is on display for the world to see 😅”

Instagram user @zyeniquee added, ”lol now this might be one of the realest relationships to come out thatvilla🤣i ik how that be. that’s the REAL stress of loving”

While Instagram user @ nyah.a wrote, “You always say you’re gonna fix it, when are you gonna fix it!!!” Girl stand upppp”

Instagram user @abovetheelimit wrote, ”Boohoo cry me a river.. her own mother and  sister told her she needed better! Hasnothing to do with fans attacking her, her own family don’t fw the guy”

Instagram user @milliondollaj_ wrote, ”corbin woulda wifed ya up boo😂”

While Instagram user @ygniyy wrote, “give her fkn 10!”

Instagram user @_nashay rote, “leave Mel alone fr yall act like yall so perfect and yall know yall forgive the same man over and over.”

Instagram user @al.xxus added, ”I hate when y’all say “we all been through this before” I’ve never been dumb behind someone I’ve known for a month.”

While Instagram user @theonlyimanilove wrote, ”She has my support, whatever she decides!”

Sincere Rhea Responds To Criticism Following Reunion Preview

Earlier this week, ‘Love Island USA’ officially released a preview for the Season 8 reunion. Many viewers entered the conversation, sharing their opinions on the clips involving Melanie and the other Islanders.

Some viewers questioned Melanie’s interactions with Kenzie and Sol while also criticizing her decision to continue standing beside Sincere. Others defended Melanie, arguing that they would support her regardless of whether they agreed with her decisions.

As the reactions continued, Sincere seemingly stepped in to take some of the heat off Melanie. He took to X and encouraged viewers to direct their criticism toward him instead.

“If y’all are going to have heat for anyone make it me. You can @ me do whatever I can take mine to the chin. I’ve looked myself in the mirror and understood that I’m far from perfect. That doesn’t absolve my actions whatsoever, actually changing to be a better human does.”

RELATED: ‘Love Island USA’ Star Tierra “Titi” Davis Speaks Out After Reunion Carpet Criticism (PHOTOS)

Brian Hickerson allegedly sent flirtatious messages to another woman months before Hayden Panettiere’s sudden death in South Carolina. The woman, who remained anonymous, claimed Hickerson contacted her after they met at a Greenville bar in March. She recently shared Instagram messages and texts that reportedly showed him repeatedly attempting to arrange a date.

5

The 26-year-old woman told Page Six that she met Hickerson at Cat’s Pajamas in Greenville on March 28. She admitted that she was “heavily intoxicated” at the time and did not “remember much of that night.”

Hickerson allegedly followed her Instagram account the following day using his since-deactivated profile, @brianhickerson_. “Great meeting you last night pretty lady. I owe you a date. I’m heading to [C]ity Tavern for a slushie in a bit you should join,” a message reportedly sent from his account read.

The woman said she did not know who Hickerson was or have any “knowledge” of his connection to Panettiere at the time. Page Six said they reviewed messages between the woman and one of her friends that supported her account. However, the outlet could not determine whether Hickerson’s alleged pursuit of the woman overlapped with his relationship with Panettiere. The actress and Hickerson had been photographed together at Los Angeles International Airport on March 2.

The Woman Said She Could Not Remember Their Conversation

5

The woman allegedly responded to Hickerson on April 1 and acknowledged that she had little memory of meeting him. “Hey Brian! I’m sorry I missed this, I’m awful with my inbox. I have to be so honest, I don’t remember much of that night. What happened?” she wrote, according to the outlet. “I’m sorry I missed your slushy invite, but I for sure would not have made it. Today is the first day I’ve had a clear mind since Saturday night.”

Hickerson reportedly told her that she “didn’t seem too drunk” and explained that he had gone out because his brother “was in town.” He also claimed that she had asked him to take her “somewhere nice on a date,” a request he joked “clearly throws Waffle House out the window.”

Hickerson reportedly suggested the upscale Greenville restaurant Halls Chophouse instead.

Hickerson Allegedly Continued Pursuing A Date

5

According to Page Six, Hickerson told the woman that he had recently moved to South Carolina from California. He allegedly wrote that he had “just moved here from Los Angeles so it was nice meeting a pretty girl in Greenville out of the blue.” “I also realized after I reached out on Instagram you gave me your number so I’ll shoot you a text if that’s better,” the message continued.

The woman reportedly said she would “definitely prefer to meet properly,” but began asking Hickerson questions about their first encounter and his age. Hickerson, now 37, allegedly responded, “I’m 36 but I read on a 25 year old level. Is that a deal breaker?” The woman replied with an amused emoji and continued joking about visiting Waffle House after they had known one another longer.

Hickerson later allegedly told her that she was “just as adorable” as she had been when they met and asked where she was from. He also admitted that he had been “ten vodka sodas deep” and mistakenly believed she had said she was from Alabama. She clarified that she was from Greenville, where Hickerson said he had also grown up.

The Woman Eventually ‘Lost Interest’

5

The woman told Page Six she eventually stopped corresponding with Hickerson because she had “lost interest” due to their age difference and her inability to remember their initial meeting. Hickerson allegedly continued sending messages on April 2 and April 4 without receiving a response. “I’m gonna be out of town for work till next Monday. So how about we shoot for halls mid week?” he reportedly wrote.

He also allegedly responded to an Instagram Stories in which the woman invited anyone without Easter Sunday plans to join her at church. “Goodness you must be reading my mind haha I was gonna skip tomorrow because it was just me. Where do you go?” Hickerson reportedly asked.

His final alleged message arrived on April 14. “Hey hey, I’m back in town this week. When am I taking you to hall’s?” he wrote, according to the outlet.

The woman said she did not reply.

She Learned About Hickerson’s Identity After Hayden Panettiere’s Death

5

The woman claimed she did not think about the exchange again until Panettiere’s death brought Hickerson’s name into the news. “I vaguely remembered the name and began looking through my direct messages,” she told Page Six. “The possibility that I had unknowingly become connected to a high-profile relationship, especially in these unfortunate circumstances, was beyond my comprehension.”

She said Hickerson never mentioned Panettiere or explained the nature of their relationship. The woman also claimed she did not learn about his previous domestic abuse convictions connected to Panettiere until after the actress died.

After years of relative silence, fans have finally gotten their first substantial look at EA Motive’s upcoming Iron Man game, just not in the way the studio intended.

An unfinished trailer for the highly anticipated Marvel game has leaked online, showing more than two minutes of early footage featuring Iron Man flying through a massive city, battling enemies and seemingly customizing his armor.

And this one appears to be very real.

Following the footage making its way around the internet, the official Marvel’s Iron Man account responded to the leak with its first-ever post.

“Well, that didn’t go as planned,” the account wrote. “But now you know, and we’ve got a lot more to show you. See you when we’re ready.”

The response effectively confirms the footage comes from Motive’s project while also making it clear that what fans are seeing was never intended to serve as the game’s official unveiling.

The leaked footage provides a surprisingly extensive glimpse at what Motive has been building.

Iron Man can be seen launching into the air and flying at high speeds through a large city, with traversal appearing to give players significant control over Tony Stark while airborne. The footage also shows both aerial and ground combat, including repulsor attacks, missiles, melee strikes and Tony grabbing and throwing enemies.

There are also glimpses of what appears to be an armor customization or progression system, suggesting players could have some control over how Iron Man’s suit develops throughout the game.

Iron Man VR

Familiar characters reportedly appearing in the footage include Pepper Potts and James “Rhodey” Rhodes, while a S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier can also be spotted.

Perhaps most importantly, the footage offers an early indication of how Motive plans to handle one of the most important elements of any Iron Man game: flight.

The ability to freely blast across a city in the Iron Man armor appears to be a major part of the experience, and even in its unfinished state, the footage gives fans a much clearer idea of the scale Motive may be targeting.

EA originally announced its collaboration with Marvel Games and Motive Studio on Iron Man in September 2022. The game was described as a third-person, single-player action-adventure featuring an original story designed to tap into Tony Stark’s complexity, charisma and creative genius.

Since then, however, official information has been extremely limited.

That silence became particularly noticeable following EA’s cancellation of its Black Panther game and the closure of developer Cliffhanger Games, raising questions among some fans about the status of Iron Man.

The newly leaked footage and Motive’s subsequent response should put many of those concerns to rest. The project is clearly still alive.

At the same time, fans should remember that this is unfinished development footage. Visuals, environments, combat systems, animations and even major gameplay mechanics could change substantially before release.

Motive also isn’t rushing to turn the leak into an official reveal. Its response makes that pretty clear: the studio will show more when it believes the game is ready.

For now, however, Iron Man fans have finally gotten their first real glimpse at Tony Stark’s next major video game adventure, and after nearly four years of waiting, there is finally something tangible to be excited about.

There’s something about refreshing our wardrobe with fresh fashion finds that has Us feeling like part of the ‘in’ crowd. We love incorporating the latest trends while also adding in staples that set the tone for our entire outfit, and we’re looking to Banana Republic’s newest fall drop for both.

We discovered the retailer’s New Arrivals Hub on a whim, uncovering rich mom blouses, easy-going pants and chic accessories that are destined to make you the most polished woman on the block. We also found on-trend pieces for fall, featuring plaid patterns, warm color palettes and soft fabrics that you can start introducing to your closet now, and wear more and more as the temperatures drop. The best part is none of our picks go past $100, so you can look and feel good about your bulk purchase (don’t worry, we’ll be buying a few, too).

15 New Fall Finds From Banana Republic

1. Our Favorite: Combine a sleek silhouette with a flattering design, and you’ll get a high-neck top. The wrap-like style cinches at the waist to give you an hourglass appearance.

2. Everyday Essential: Your dingy, stained white tee needs an upgrade; this V-neck shirt is made with high-quality fabrics that feel soft, look crisp and appear so rich.

3. Total Reset: Chocolate brown is expected to be huge for fall, so we’re grabbing this button-up shirt in anticipation of the trend. Made with 100% cotton, this top is comfortable enough to wear right now and all through October.

4. Petite-Approved: Anyone who is 5’3″ and under knows the struggle with pants shopping, which are usually too long. These tailored culotte pants hit the sweet spot with a shorter hem, and even come in regular and petite sizing.

5. No Brainer: You may have dozens of tank tops in your closet, but none are as elevated as this minimalist find. The main star detail is the high neckline that has a square shape for a modern, rich touch.

6. Two-in-One: Is this Banana Republic pick a cardigan or a top? If you ask Us, it’s both! We love the interesting button-loop closure and inverted V-hem that looks great layered over a tank or on its own as a shirt.

7. Slimming Staple: Peplum styles are back in fashion, and this billowy work-ready staple is proof. It reinvents your classic ‘going out top’ into an office-appropriate style with a button front, pleats and a flattering waist.

8. Mix and Match: Satin skirts are a must for fall, especially in this rich dark brown hue. Style it the NYC way with a classic white tee and sneakers, or the rich mom way with a mock-neck top and kitten heels.

9. Top Seller: With over 150 positive ratings, it’s clear shoppers are obsessed with these polished pull-on pants. They’re fitted at the waist and thigh before extending out to at the pant hem for the most flattering and elegant look.

10. Soft Statement: Sometimes you don’t need a large bag to get you out the door. For those moments, opt for this swanky leather coin purse that can hold your credit cards, I.D. and cash.

11. Low-Key Genius: Whether you style this denim shirt as your top or as a layer, you’re bound to look effortlessly cool. The light-wash find is great for everything from brunches in the Upper East Side to shopping in Soho.

12. Comfort MVP: Travel days call for comfortable clothes, but that doesn’t mean looking sloppy. These pull-on pants understand the assignment with a relaxed fit, tapered leg and autumnal hue that feels on trend.

13. Instant Upgrade: A sleek leather belt has the power to take your outfit from cute to magazine-worthy. This fall suede belt has been patiently waiting to make its appearance.

14. Anything But Basic: Shorts may not sound inherently ‘fall,’ but this burnt cinnamon brown style will make you reconsider. The satin fabric and lace trim are two autumnal details that are set to be huge this year.

15. Playful Pattern: Plaid shirts are a given; however, we’re swooning over this mesh turtleneck option that acts as a fun layering piece. Style it over a simple bralette or under an apron dress — the choice is up to you.

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

Related: The Brown Flat Shoe Trend Will Take Over Fall 2026 — Our Editor‘s Picks

Advertisement

Fall fashion is all about warm hues, interesting textures and gold-tone embellishments that make clean, classy outfits look positively rich. The same goes for your footwear, which is why brown flat shoes are expected to be everywhere this fall — and we’re already seeing signs of it ahead of the season. Ballet flats, Mary Janes, […]