Entertainment
Only 3 Movie Trilogies Are More Important Than The Lord of the Rings
Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy was a seismic moment in Hollywood. It confirmed that fantasy films, too often relegated to the fringes, could be a draw for audiences and set the stage for interconnected storytelling that has influenced today’s world of cinematic universes. Filming a massive trilogy of films exceeding three hours in length was a major gamble for New Line Cinema, but Jackson pulled it off.
The Lord of the Rings also proved that quality didn’t have to be sacrificed in order to achieve box office success. Jackson’s adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novels respected the books’ intricate storylines and character arcs, and seamlessly blended practical effects with digital technology. It was an exciting trilogy, made with life and care, and it set the stage for more stories to come, both in Jackson’s adaptation of The Hobbit and future films from Andy Serkis and screenwriter Stephen Colbert. Each film in the original trilogy was nominated for multiple Academy Awards, with The Return of the King sweeping the 2004 Oscars to take home 11 trophies, including Best Picture and Best Director.
It’s hard to think of a more important set of films in Hollywood – but it’s not impossible. While the number is low, three films have arguably made a larger impact, fusing quality, innovation, and creativity to deliver a set of films that not only captivated audiences but changed the landscape of film making for entire generations. Like The Lord of the Rings, the impact of these films is still being felt, and stories are still unfolding in several of these cinematic universes.
3
‘Toy Story’ 1-3 (the Andy trilogy)
Technically, there are five Toy Story movies, with the fifth slated to arrive in June 2026. But there’s a clear line between the first three films, all of which revolve around the toys’ relationship with their growing child, Andy, and the Bonnie-centric later films. While there’s no such thing as a bad Toy Story movie, there’s something special about that first trilogy, which set a high bar for family films.
On its own, Toy Story is one of the most important movies ever made. When it was released in November 1995, it was the first completely computer-animated feature. Coming at a time when most animated films were musical fairy tales, the buddy comedy’s wit and cast of A-list stars marked a change in what would define animated films decades to come. It was so good that while a sequel was inevitable, many believed there was no way a second adventure with Buzz, Woody and company could capture the magic of the first. And Toy Story 2 had a rough production, it became one of the few sequels to surpass its predecessor, particularly by plucking at the heartstrings with Jessie’s “When Somebody Loved Me” ballad. Twelve years later, Toy Story 3 brought Andy’s story to a close with a goodbye that left few dry eyes among those who had grown up with the series.
The Toy Story films shaped the future of family movies. Computer-generated animation quickly replaced traditional hand-drawn films. Where a popular star might once have played a supporting role in an animated movie, such as Robin Williams in Aladdin, animated casts would soon become stacked with major stars, while Broadway-style songs gave way to rapid-fire jokes. Without Toy Story, there is no Shrek or the rest of Pixar’s library. And pre-Toy Story, animated films didn’t often do sequels; the success of the franchise proved audiences would return to see their favorite cartoon characters, and they could be spread out far enough to capture new generations.
But the trilogy also proved that animated films could do more than entertain children. With sly jokes and a healthy dose of toy-based nostalgia, the films catered just as much to adults as to younger audiences. And by constantly returning to themes of mortality, aging, friendship and parenting, they tapped into very adult emotions, paving the way for animation to take more storytelling and thematic risks. By spreading the story over more than 15 years, the trilogy also allowed audiences to grow up with Andy, priming them for the heartbreaking moment when he had to say goodbye to Woody and the Roundup Gang. Toy Story proved animation was not disposable; it could captivate audiences of all ages and be just as emotional and gripping as any live-action movie.
2
‘The Godfather’ Trilogy
What is cinema without The Godfather? Had the adaptation of Mario Puzo’s best-seller not been so critically and commercially beloved, the landscape of movies could have forever changed. It gave Francis Ford Coppola and Al Pacino their first big successes, and resurrected the career of Marlon Brando. More importantly, it proved that art and entertainment weren’t mutually exclusive. Upon release, The Godfather was a smash hit that would become the highest-grossing film of all time. It was also critically adored, and took home the Oscar for Best Picture. It’s an iconic film from which nearly every crime movie of the last 50 years has drawn inspiration.
Sequels and franchises were far from sure things at the time of The Godfather’s release, so eyebrows were raised when Coppola agreed to direct The Godfather Part II. But rather than a rushed cash-in, as so many sequels were at the time, the follow-up was an artistic triumph that is, to many, an improvement even on the first film. It proved that sequels could bring depth to beloved stories, and its parallel narratives contrasting the early years of Don Corleone with the rise of his son, Michael, brought added complexity to the characters. The Godfather Part II took what audiences loved about the first film and made it richer and more challenging, proving that sequels could have artistic merit. The Godfather Part II also took home an Oscar for Best Picture and was a commercial success, creating one of the first modern franchises.
It’s easy to think the Godfather legacy ends there, as The Godfather Part III is universally considered inferior to the first films. And it’s a messier movie, to be sure, hobbled not, as many assume, by Sofia Coppola’s last-minute substitution for Winona Ryder but for a slower pace and characters who simply weren’t as compelling, particularly bringing in George Hamilton when Robert Duvall refused to return. But The Godfather Part III has its charms, with some blistering action sequences, a strong performance by Al Pacino, and a heartbreaking final turn that feels Michael Corleone feel the depth of all his sins. Coppola’s recent recut, The Godfather Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone, fixes some of the film’s weaker spots.
But The Godfather Part III is also important as one of the first examples of the legacy sequel, in which original characters return decades later to tie up loose ends and close out any remaining arcs. It closed Michael Corleone’s story and left no question that closing the door at the end of The Godfather ushered him into a world of damnation. While considered a critical and commercial disappointment, it still managed a Best Picture nomination and grossed more than double its budget at the box office. And it was one of the first major franchises to suggest that it was worth revisiting beloved characters years after their peak.
1
‘Star Wars,’ Episodes IV-VI
Is there any question? Upon release in 1977, Star Wars changed the movie game. It married big thrills to innovative special effects, making sci-fi and fantasy reliable money-makers and, just after Jaws, confirming that we were living in the Age of the Blockbuster. George Lucas’ space opera introduced characters and storylines that are still being built on, and his savvy decision to hold onto merchandise rights opened studios’ eyes to a whole new way of making money. Star Wars could arguably be the most important movie ever made.
But Lucas’s approach to the sequels was similarly transformative. Rather than just launch Luke Skywalker on another adventure, he doubled-down on his love for the serials of his youth and created a three-part ongoing story. Instead of sending audiences out on a high note at the end of The Empire Strikes Back, he delivered a cliffhanger that dared them to ignore Return of the Jedi. He brought unexpected depth and redemption to Darth Vader, created one of the great blockbuster love stories between Princess Leia and Han Solo, and created exciting, colorful new worlds and creatures to wow audiences – and, of course, sell more toys. There is, simply, no Lord of the Rings, Dune, or Marvel Cinematic Universe without Star Wars.
And, for better or worse, it introduced the concept of unending franchises. Nearly 50 years after Star Wars, Lucas’ galaxy continues to expand. More than a decade after fans thought Star Wars had left the theaters, Lucas returned for the prequel series, which wove new tales connected to his original films. And under Disney’s leadership, the franchise has grown exponentially, with stories and television shows that push the story forward or re-examine what came before; this summer’s The Mandalorian and Grogu will explore a time set just after these original films. We are in a cinematic world dominated by sequels, trilogies, spin-offs, legacy-sequels, and special events, and they’re all following the lead set by those first three Star Wars films.
- Created by
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George Lucas
- First TV Show
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Star Wars The Clone Wars
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You want a high-end aesthetic, but not the price tag that comes with it. I can understand that. Luckily, I find great deals for a living, and these 13 markdowns are seriously rich mom-coded. I’m talking deals on classy sandals, Zimmermann-style dresses and spring blouses that go with everything, all from just $4.
Whether you’re searching for an easy spring staple or a special-occasion stunner, you’ll find it below. My expensive-looking favorites are flying off the shelves, so don’t wait to score your new go-to pieces. Oh, and when people ask about your private yet, don’t say I didn’t warn you.
13 Chic-Looking Pieces on Mega Sale — From $4
1. Dreamy Maxi: Everything about this short-sleeve maxi dress channels boutique vibes, including the baby blue color and delicate floral print — was $36, now $18!
2. Spring Sweater: Transitional weather calls for this scallop-hem cardigan that works just as well at the office as it does at brunch — was $46, now $34!
3. Picnic Date: Gingham print is totally in right now. These pull-on pants nail the aesthetic while feeling like sweats — was $20, now $14!
4. Corporate Queen: Your colleagues will assume you got promoted when you wear this lantern-sleeve blouse. The fabric is ultra-lightweight for comfortable spring and summer wear — was $23, now $11!
5. Midi Maven: This 100% cotton midi balances laid-back style with luxe vibes, making you look effortlessly put together no matter what shoes you wear — was $148, now $33!
Kate Middleton and Jennifer Garner are both fashionistas, however we wouldn’t expect them to agree on a single blouse style — let alone wear practically the same one. But we can confirm that both fashionistas have tie-neck blouses in their closets, and you can get the look with these styles starting at just $9! Middleton […]
6. Sleek Sandals: Speaking of shoes, you’ll wear these comfy LifeStride sandals nonstop from May through September — was $70, now $40!
7. No Buttons Needed: Breezy and soft, you might forget you’re wearing these beachy palazzo pants. I adore the smocked waist element — was $27, now $14!
8. Go-To Accessory: Black bags are always ‘in’ — just ask rich moms like Heidi Klum and Katie Holmes who carry this structured style all year — was $338, now $89!
9. Hamptons Flair: I can’t believe this short-sleeve peasant blouse is only $10. The flattering peplum shape seals the deal — was $17, now $10!
10. Office to Yoga: These polished joggers transition seamlessly from the office to the mat, thanks to their tailored design and breathable fabric — was $18, now $10!
11. Braided Beauty: Braided detailing makes any sandals look expensive. These cushiony numbers even have memory foam support — was $40, now $20!
12. Designer Vibes: Zimmermann, is that you? This square-neck mini dress looks straight from a resort catalog — was $20, now $15!
13. Could be Linen: Both billowy and structured, this button-front shirt could totally be linen. Good luck choosing just one color — was $13, now $4!
We get it: You love everything about Zara’s boho-luxe aesthetic, but the price tags make your wallets shudder. Luckily, you don’t need a six-figure shopping budget to get the look. Amazon is quietly stacked with chic spring pieces that capture Zara’s stylish vibe, and our top elevated options will make you do a double take […]
If sticking beside him was a person, it would definitely be Keyshia Ka’oir. She recently made it crystal clear where her loyalty lies as she dropped a message for her hubby Gucci Mane on social media.
RELATED: There She Is! Keyshia Ka’oir Shares New Video Amid Kidnapping & Robbery Case Involving Pooh Shiesty & Gucci Mane (WATCH)
Keyshia Ka’oir Doubles Down On Her Loyalty To Gucci Mane
On Saturday, April 18, Keyshia Ka’oir and Gucci Mane popped out for a lil’ date night — and of course, they stepped out in style! Mrs. Davis looked stunning in a red-and-white fit, dripping in diamonds as per usual, while Big Guwop matched her vibe in a red-and-white tee with shorts and sneakers. During their pop-out, Keyshia came through with a sweet message for Gucci. She hopped on her Instagram Stories, making it known that when it comes to her man, she’s standing all ten behind him, no questions asked! “My husband is my world & I’ll 4Eva ride fa him. MRS. GUWOP!”
Fans React As Keyshia Shows Love To Gucci
After TSR shared Keyshia Ka’oir’s message, folsk online slide into the comment section with reactions. Plenty of fans dropped hearts and fire emojis, saying Keyshia has always been down for Gucci and will always ride for him. Meanwhile, others said the love they have for each other could never be denied!
Instagram user @redhott_hairstylist wrote, “As you should 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥”
Instagram user @kikimama_ wrote, “& beeeen riding for him 👏❤️ solid.”
While Instagram user @kingclassic90 wrote, “That’s that real love, me and you against the world…. 👑🤞🏾🔥❤️”
Then Instagram user @play_u_lay1 wrote, “That’s my girl 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏😍”
Another Instagram user @iamspanishbadd wrote, “Listen she’s beeeeeen riding with him! Cant nobody say otherwise!!!!!”
Instagram user @blacdahlias wrote, “I love this ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️”
Then another Instagram user @flowergoddess22 wrote, “I know thats right ✅”
Finally, Instagram user @mg3peat wrote, “Periodttttt‼️ she ain’t wrong.”
Keyshia’s Message Comes Days Amid Reactions To Pooh Shiesty’s Mugshot
One thing for certain and two things for sure, Keyshia Ka’oir has always been about Gucci Mane. She has been holding down for years and is never shy about professing her love for him online. However, folks on social media have been keeping a close eye on her amid Pooh Shiesty’s arrest tied to the alleged kidnapping and robbery of Gucci.
Authorities took Pooh into custody after reports stated that he along with his father Lontrell Williams Sr., and seven others robbed Gucci during an armed takeover. After his arrest, Pooh’s mugshot hit the internet. The photo shows Pooh in a gray hoodie with his dreads out, staring straight into the camera.
RELATED: Pooh Shiesty, His Dad, Gucci Mane & Keyshia Ka’oir Were All Active On Social Media Around Time Of Alleged Robbery — Here’s What They Posted
What Do You Think Roomies?
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published
These days, Star Trek is a bona fide pop culture phenomenon. But during the development of The Original Series, there was anxiety that the general public wouldn’t really understand Gene Roddenberry’s mashing up Western tropes with a sci-fi setting. Making matters worse was that the original pilot, “The Cage,” had been rejected by NBC for being too brainy. Fortunately, Roddenberry got a chance to shoot another pilot, one which impressed the network enough to order an entire season worth of episodes.
Several episodes of Star Trek: The Original Series had already been shot when the time came for this new show to make its broadcast premiere. The first episode that the general public saw was “The Man Trap,” which featured a shapeshifting monster that was revealed to be an alien salt vampire. This good-but-not-great episode was an odd choice, and it was one that the cast and crew hated. As it turns out, though, this episode was very carefully selected by executives because it served as an inoffensive, relatively straightforward encapsulation of everything Star Trek had to offer.
It’s A Trap!
Most of the information we have about why “The Man Trap” was selected as Star Trek’s first episode comes from the book Inside Star Trek: The Real Story. Within this impressive reference tome, Robert H. Justman and Herbert F. Solow revealed something surprising: NBC had several other episodes to choose from for the premiere, including “The Corbomite Maneuver,” “Charlie X,” “Mudd’s Women,” “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” and “The Naked Time.” All of them had already been shot and were mostly finished, so it was just a matter of figuring out which episode would serve as the best introduction to Star Trek, a heretofore unknown sci-fi series.
“The Man Trap” won out, mostly because the powers that be worried that other episodes would be off-putting to general audiences in some very specific ways. For example, they worried that audiences would find “Charlie X” a story that was “too gentle” because it focused on an adolescent with special powers. This was probably the right call, in retrospect: when Variety gave a negative review of “The Man Trap” (an episode chosen, in part, because of its relative maturity), they declared that Star Trek: The Original Series was “better suited to the Saturday morning kidvid bloc” (ouch!).
A Monster Hit Of An Episode
“The Corbomite Maneuver” was a great potential choice, but this episode’s impressive special effects were still in post-production, and almost all of its action took place on the ship. “Where No Man Has Gone Before” really outlined the premise of the new show, but it was deemed “expository” for general audiences expecting more action and danger. Justman thought “The Naked Time” was a killer introduction to the crew’s personalities, but the network passed, presumably because of how over-the-top (half-naked, swashbuckling Sulu? Oh, my!) that episode gets. “Mudd’s Women,” meanwhile, was deemed too offensive because the plot involved literally selling women to miners.
Through this process of elimination, executives decided that “The Man Trap” was the best intro to Star Trek. It had cool scenes on both the Enterprise and a distant outpost (a strange new world) and featured a straightforward action plot you didn’t have to be a sci-fi aficionado to understand. Finally, it was all about finding and defeating a creepy monster, which offered thrills to audiences of all ages. The network’s choice paid off, and Star Trek: The Original Series became the most popular sci-fi show in television history, even though the cast (including William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy) thought “The Man Trap” was the worst possible episode they could have chosen.
All of this is a keen reminder of how much thought and work went into putting Star Trek’s best foot forward. It might be a reminder that Paramount’s current upper leadership needs, as Starfleet Academy hit the ground running with the worst episodes of Season 1. The show got better after that, but it didn’t matter because the prospective audience had already been driven away. As it turns out, today’s execs need to learn something that the network execs of the ‘60s had learned very well: series succeed when you give the audience what they want to see and not what you want to show!
Cardi B concluded her “Little Miss Drama Tour” on April 18 with a stop at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta. However, before the show, she got into a heated exchange with the venue staff, which almost led her to cancel. Not only was the clash documented on social media, but the rapper also addressed it on stage.
Cardi B Slams State Farm Arena Staff In Heated Exchange
Cardi B went live on Instagram before her show at the State Farm Arena, saying she and her entourage had been disrespected while preparing for the concert. Notably, she can be seen in the footage addressing the staff and saying she would cancel due to their alleged behavior.
She said to the unseen area staff in the clip, “You and your f-cking employees are being disrespectful… I am not gonna perform today. Because you’re being disrespectful.” After that, she demanded of whoever she was addressing, “Go get your boss, as you said.”
Cardi went on, “I’m not performing today. Let me tell you why, because [when] we got in here, your employees are being f-cking rude for no reason. Pointing the fingers for no reason. Touching people for no reason.”
She added, “I did 35 shows, and I never had a problem, and we’ve been kind to everybody. So now I’m leaving.”
The Rapper Addressed The Drama On Stage
Ultimately, Cardi B took to the stage for the crowd of adoring fans despite the dustup with event staff. However, she vulnerably opened up while performing for the sold-out audience, venting her frustrations about what happened backstage.
She said, “I’m pissed off right now. This area been playing a lot of f-cking games with me. This will be the last time I’m ever in this b-tch.” After that, Cardi B joked that she would host her concert in the parking lot rather than perform at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.
The mom of four continued, “I’m tired of ya’ll playing with me. This is the f-cking second time.” She then gave a shout-out to the Atlanta Hawks.
Fans Are On Cardi B’s Side
There has been no official confirmation of what transpired backstage at Cardi B’s State Farm Arena show. However, fans are on her side as she clearly felt disrespected by the staff. Notably, many fans think the rapper should opt for stadiums in the future, saying she has the popularity to fill even larger venues.
One person said on X, “Nah, they really must’ve annoyed her. She’s had over 30 shows with no issue.” Cardi has been packing arenas for years and still gets this level of nonsense backstage?”
Someone else wrote, “Cardi, you could sell out the Benz stadium!!! And their concessions are cheaper.” Another person replied, “Yup, stadiums next!:
Lastly, another fan joked, “I’m sure the parking lot will be sold out.”
Cardi B’s ‘Little Miss Drama Tour’ Was A Success
Cardi B kicked off her “Little Miss Drama Tour” on February 11 in Palm Desert, California. This followed the release of her sophomore album, “Am I The Drama?” in September 2025. The tour proved to be a success from the start, with Live Nation confirming on February 20 that Cardi had become the first female rapper to sell out two back-to-back shows at the Kia Forum.
That’s not all. According to Pollstar News, the “Little Miss Drama Tour” grossed a staggering $32 million by the halfway point of its run. This comes from over 200,000 ticket sales from the 17 shows performed as of March 2026.
Regarding attendance up to the midway point, Cardi B’s concerts averaged about 12,330 people. The largest crowd gathered on February 13 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with 13,839 attendees.
Cardi Plans To Release Another Album This Year
There was a seven-year gap between Cardi B’s first two studio albums, with her first, “Invasion of Privacy,” released in 2018. However, following the release of “Am I The Drama,” the rapper assured fans that the wait wouldn’t be nearly as long before their third album.
She said on X spaces in October 2025, “I see you guys asking for a deluxe or asking to do a remix album like Charli X[CX] or something. Unfortunately, I am not doing none of that. However, I want to put out a project another album in less than a year, so I’m really planning on that.”
Cardi B continued, “I want a new era, I kinda know what I want it to look like. It’s gonna be different from ‘Am I the Drama?’”
It’s currently unclear when she will begin work on the album.
Entertainment
Rachel Reid talks new “Heated Rivalry” book, Jack Innanen's casting campaign, musical parody, and more (exclusive)
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EW caught up with the best-selling romance author at BookCon 2026 in New York City.
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A pair of cool-girl denim jeans can be the base for an endless amount of stylish outfits, whether you want to keep things laid-back and casual or get a little dressed up. And if you’re looking for a new pair for spring, you’re in luck – Reese Witherspoon has just helped us discover the most chic loose jeans, and they cost less than $35.
While doing some shopping in SoHo, the actress was photographed wearing a pair of perfectly fitted loose jeans – you know, the kind that have a wide leg but are snug in all the right places. We were able to find a pair that are almost the same, and even though they’re budget-friendly, they definitely look more expensive.
Get the Dokotoo Wide Leg Jeans for $33 (was $55) at Walmart! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
The Dokotoo Wide Leg Jeans offer a similar loose fit with a side seam that makes them look surprisingly flattering. They hug your hips and waist in a good way, showing off your curves without feeling too restrictive. And we love the medium wash they come in as a versatile pick that can be dressed up or down, although they do come in a few other denim shades as well.
At a certain point, skinny jeans just stop being the easiest clothing option. They’re restrictive, hard to style and don’t quite give that effortless look most of Us are going for anymore. A pair of relaxed denim, on the other hand, does all of that without sacrificing comfort — and Lindsay Lohan just proved it. […]
One thing we love about these jeans is that they have a raw hem that gives them a distressed look. It’s not so distressed that they come off as too worn or messy, but it’s just distressed enough to give them that “I’m not trying too hard” vibe. You can pair them with flat sandals or sneakers, but they would also look great with heels.
And we’re not the only ones who are impressed with this pick – they come with tons of happy reviews from shoppers who love the fit and style. “Don’t hesitate to get these,” one shopper titled their review. “I have a very difficult time finding jeans that fit me, so I normally don’t wear jeans,” they continued. “These are soft, fit perfect and are comfortable. I’ve had tons of compliments from people who I didn’t know when I’d wear them.”
Several shoppers have also raved about how comfortable the jeans are. “The fit strikes a perfect balance – snug but not restrictive, giving a modern silhouette without sacrificing comfort,” one reviewer wrote, noting that the fabric feels “impressive.”
Don’t wait on these loose jeans – they’re the perfect wardrobe staple you can wear all year long. And because they have such a classic fit, they’ll never go out of style, so they’re a win all around.
Get the Dokotoo Wide Leg Jeans for $33 (was $55) at Walmart! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more jeans here and don’t forget to check out all of Walmart for more great finds!
Entertainment
Prime Video’s Hit 2026 Crime Thriller Officially Gets Overtaken by Mark Wahlberg’s Newest Movie
After roughly two weeks at the top of Prime Video’s global viewership charts, the sleek neo-noir film Crime 101 has been replaced as the streamer’s most-watched movie. Chris Hemsworth led a stacked cast including Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan. But despite the star power, Crime 101 was unable to recoup its reported $90 million production budget. However, its theatrical run provided much-needed publicity for its eventual release on Prime Video; it’s being marketed as a streaming original in several countries. If the goal was to gain traction before dropping on streaming, then Crime 101 is a grand success. The movie’s excellent 88% Rotten Tomatoes score certainly helped. But the streamer’s latest champion didn’t get a theatrical release and hasn’t been reviewed well at all.
The movie in question hails from Peter Farrelly, one half of the former Farrelly Brothers directing team behind hits such as Dumb and Dumber and There’s Something About Mary. Their last film together was Dumb and Dumber To, which debuted in 2014. Their professional separation came in the same decade as those of the Coen Brothers, the Hughes Brothers, and the Wachowskis. While Peter Farrelly has broadened his creative horizons with movies such as Green Book, his brother Bobby Farrelly has helmed only two movies since their break up. Peter has another Oscar player lined up for this year, the biographical drama I Play Rocky, about the moving story of how Sylvester Stallone came to star in the 1970s classic Rocky.
Here’s the New Comedy Movie Taking Over the Prime Video Viewership Charts
However, his latest movie doesn’t seem to have similar ambitions. It was designed for Prime Video success and that’s exactly what it’s delivering. We’re talking about the action comedy film Balls Up, in which Mark Wahlberg and Paul Walter Hauser play marketers who must escape the fallout of a scandal in Brazil after partying too hard during the soccer World Cup. The movie was released in the same week as Netflix’s documentary series about Brazilian soccer icon Ronaldinho; programming around the world’s most popular sport is heating up ahead of the World Cup this year in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Balls Up holds a 28% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, but this poor score didn’t stand in the way of its success. According to FlixPatrol, it remains the number one movie on the streamer both globally and domestically. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
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April 15, 2026
- Runtime
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104 minutes
- Director
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Peter Farrelly
A new comedy series has been steadily climbing Apple TV’s viewership charts, and has now overtaken the streamer’s hit sci-fi titles Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and For All Mankind. The show premiered with its first three episodes on April 15, and it marks yet another example of its creator’s versatility. It hails from David E. Kelley, who, in the last few years alone, has delivered the addictive thrillers Big Little Lies, Anatomy of a Scandal, and Presumed Innocent, as well as the crime series Love & Death and The Calling. The prolific writer broke out in the 1990s with shows such as Doogie Howser, M.D. and The Practice.
His latest series is headlined by the recent Oscar nominee Elle Fanning, who is joined by Michelle Pfeiffer, Nick Offerman, Nicole Kidman, Greg Kinnear, and Michael Angarano. This marks Kelley’s fourth series with Kidman, after Big Little Lies, The Undoing, and Nine Perfect Strangers. This also happens to be the second show that premiered last week to include a subplot revolving around OnlyFans. The other is HBO’s Euphoria; in its third season, Sydney Sweeney‘s character expresses her interest in becoming an OnlyFans model. Kelley’s series revolves around a young woman, played by Fanning, who becomes pregnant and turns to OnlyFans to support herself.
Your Latest Apple TV Obsession Is Here
We’re talking about Margo’s Got Money Troubles, which premiered to excellent reviews on April 15 and will conclude its eight-episode first season on May 20. It currently holds a “Certified Fresh” 96% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, “Rich in character and dramatic antics, Margo’s Got Money Troubles succeeds because of its attention to emotional detail, authentic performances, and brilliant storytelling.” In her review, Collider’s Taylor Gates praised the show for having “a firm, confident handle on the idea that we are all performing all the time, yet the masks we wear are a reflection of something deep and real.” According to FlixPatrol, Margo’s Got Money Troubles is already one of the most-watched series on Apple TV, behind the second season of Your Friends & Neighbors, starring Jon Hamm. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
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2026 – 2026-00-00
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Apple TV
- Directors
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Dearbhla Walsh
- Writers
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Rufi Thorpe
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I’ve spent years staring at dresses on the rack, loving them on the hanger, then watching my fitting room dreams crumble the second I zip up. If you carry your curves below the waist as I do, you know the frustration of slipping into a cute dress that hugs in all the wrong places. It’s enough to make you swear off dresses entirely.
But here’s the thing: the right cut changes everything. A-lines, wrap silhouettes and strategic ruching can highlight a narrow waist while giving your hips room to breathe. I pulled together 13 dresses that actually flatter pear-shaped bodies, with styles polished enough for a dinner party and relaxed for a Saturday market run. Let’s find your new favorite!
Flattering Dresses for Pear-Shapes on Amazon
1. My Favorite: Shirt dresses can look boxy on pear shapes, but this tie-waist maxi cinches at your natural waist and flows to the floor. The blue and white stripe keeps it crisp and polished. Everyone will think you found it at a Hamptons boutique!
2. Strapless Stunner: I’d throw this strapless maxi on for a farmer’s market morning or a casual brunch without thinking twice. The ruched fabric keeps it interesting, and those pockets actually hold stuff.
3. Wedding-Ready: I’d wear this hunter green mini to a garden wedding with nude heels and feel completely put-together. The lace detail and V-neck are elegant, and the A-line skirt is genuinely forgiving.
4. Casual Sundress: Want to balance wider hips? This square-neck sundress draws attention upward with a structured neckline, while the flowy knit skirt glides right over your lower half.
5. Quite the Charmer: The smocked elastic waist on this tiered midi dress creates definition right where pear shapes want it most. Those flutter sleeves in rust add a playful, feminine touch I love.
Free People has a hold on Us, and our wallets know it. Those effortlessly cool tunics, romantic blouses and lived-in layers come with price tags that sting, especially when you want more than one piece per season. Good news: these new arrivals from Amazon look like Free People bestsellers, and they cost a fraction of […]
6. Cocktail Attire: If you want to lean into your curves instead of hiding them, this ruched cocktail dress is your move. The bodycon fit cinches everything in, while the ruffle hem gives gorgeous flow.
7. Wallet-Friendly: At just $15, this floral maxi sundress with a milkmaid neckline is a low-risk way to try a bold yellow print. The boho silhouette skims the hips and keeps everything relaxed.
8. Something Blue: The A-line pleated skirt on this sleeveless midi dress flares from the waist, which is exactly what pear shapes need. The sky blue color works for both office days and cocktail hours.
9. Casual-Chic: Pear shapes need structure on top and flow on the bottom, and this knit-top maxi delivers exactly that. The ribbed bodice and loose skirt create a balanced silhouette with zero fuss.
10. Polka Dots, Please: I’d throw on this ruffled polka dot dress for a summer cocktail party with strappy sandals. The black and white print is classic, and the high-low hem shows just enough leg.
11. Easy Wrap Dress: Pear shapes know the struggle of finding a mini that fits the waist without strangling the hips. This tiered wrap dress solves it with a smocked waist and a ruffle hem that flows freely.
12. Under $30: The V-neck and ruffle sleeves on this tiered midi dress pull focus to your face and shoulders. At $27, the flowy tiered skirt skims past hips and thighs without looking cheap.
13. Hourglass Silhouette: Shirt dresses can go frumpy fast, but this button-down mini keeps things sharp with a structured collar and clean lines. The vertical button placket naturally elongates your torso.
We get it: You love everything about Zara’s boho-luxe aesthetic, but the price tags make your wallets shudder. Luckily, you don’t need a six-figure shopping budget to get the look. Amazon is quietly stacked with chic spring pieces that capture Zara’s stylish vibe, and our top elevated options will make you do a double take […]
Alfred Hitchcock knew what you feared and how to play with those fears to deliver some of Hollywood’s most iconic films. He even created new fears, like the banality of taking a shower, instantly becoming a horrifying prospect for thousands after Psycho in 1960. But even the “Master of Suspense” had his own fears, some of which he based films around. For example, after his father arranged for a London bobby to lock him in a cell at 11, Hitchcock developed a fear of police officers, driving films like North by Northwest and The 39 Steps, where innocent men are wrongfully accused and chased by authorities.
So it would be safe to assume that we can make an educated guess about the one thing that scared Hitchcock above all others, based on the films he made. Vertigo would suggest that Hitchcock had a paralyzing fear of heights, which he did, but that’s not it. A fear of showers? No, but it sure as all hell made Janet Leigh fear them the rest of her life. And he didn’t have ornithophobia, which presumably would have sparked The Birds, but that’s much closer to the truth. See, the one thing that frightened Hitchcock the most is available at your local grocery store, in a package with eleven others like it: the lowly egg.
Alfred Hitchcock’s Unexpected Phobia: A Deep Fear of Eggs
That’s right, eggs. The man who brought you Rear Window couldn’t walk past the dairy aisle. In 1963, Hitchcock explained his ovophobia to Italian journalist Oriana Fallaci (per The Telegraph). “I’m frightened of eggs. Worse than frightened — they revolt me. That white round thing without any holes, and when you break it, inside there’s that yellow thing, round, without any holes… Brr!” To Hitchcock, an egg was all surface, or all innards. Easily cracked, yet strangely impenetrable. “Have you ever seen anything more revolting than an egg yolk breaking and spilling its yellow liquid?” he asked Fallaci.
10 Essential Alfred Hitchcock Movies, Ranked
These films flaunt the Master of Suspense’s versatility.
Then he adds a little more detail, detail that is pure Hitchcock-ian: “Blood is jolly, red. But egg yolk is yellow, revolting. I’ve never tasted it.” No one in the history of ever has referred to blood as being “jolly,” and fewer still would prefer to see blood instead of an egg yolk. What does that mean for Hitchcock? Using Psycho as an example, Hitchcock would have been fine seeing Norman as Mrs. Bates with blood dripping from his knife, delighted even. But if Norman is making a cake? He’s out of there.
Alfred Hitchcock’s Other Fear Had a Strange Irony
Ironically, despite his fear of eggs, he had no fear of the feathered beasts that came from them. “I can look at a corpse chopped to bits without batting an eyelid, but I can’t bear the sight of a dead bird,” he tells Fallaci, adding, “Too heartrending. I can’t even bear to see them suffer, birds, or get tired.” The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is fine, Dumb and Dumber, not so much. Furthermore, not only did he have the highest consideration for birds, Hitchcock believed that the birds of The Birds were justified, saying, “For hundreds of centuries, birds have been persecuted by men, killed, put in the pot, in the oven, on the spit, used for writing pens, feathers for hats, turned into bloodcurdling stuffed ornaments… Such infamy deserves exemplary punishment.”
But Hitchcock did have another fear that seems almost karmic: his own films. Per The Telegraph, he told Fallaci, “I never go to see them. I don’t know how people can bear to watch my movies.” As he listed his many other terrors, Fallaci retorted, “That’s rather illogical, Mr Hitchcock. Come to that, your movies are illogical, too. From the logical point of view, not one of them can stand inspection.” Having built his career on irrational fear, one can imagine the smirk Hitchcock must have had, as he said, “Agreed, but what is logic? There’s nothing more stupid than logic.” Except maybe fearing an omelet.
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