HBO® Original series House of the Dragon has never been a show for passive viewing. Between the political intrigue, family betrayals, and spectacular dragon action, every episode is designed to pull viewers deeper into the world of Westeros.

That’s especially true now that Season 3 is underway. After two seasons of rising tensions and fragile alliances, the Dance of the Dragons is finally set to erupt into open warfare, with HBO teasing bigger battles, higher stakes, and more dragonfire than ever before. Which makes it the perfect moment for Govee to enter the dragonpit. Following the launch of its TV Backlight 3 lineup, Govee has partnered with House of the Dragon to bring the atmosphere of Westeros beyond the screen and into viewers’ living rooms.

What the collaboration does offer is a way to make each episode feel a little bigger. With themed lighting effects inspired by the world of House of the Dragon, viewers can create a setup that reacts to the action on-screen and helps extend the mood of the show throughout the room. And for a series built around fire, shadow, and spectacle, that’s a particularly appealing proposition.

Govee and ‘House of the Dragon’ Are a Natural Match

Part of what makes House of the Dragon so compelling is its visual identity. The series constantly shifts between extremes: candlelit plotting in ancient stone halls one moment, dragons tearing through the sky the next. Warm golds give way to cold grey skies, torchlight becomes dragonfire, and intimate conversations can explode into violence without warning.

That atmosphere is a huge part of the viewing experience. The Green and Black councils are defined not just by politics, but by distinct palettes, costumes, locations, and moods. Dragonstone feels different from King’s Landing, just as a smoky battlefield feels different from the polished halls of power.

Traditional living room lighting doesn’t always support that scale. Bright overhead lights can wash out darker scenes, while complete darkness can make the room feel disconnected from the screen. That’s where reactive backlighting comes in.

Rather than simply adding decorative lighting behind a television, Govee’s system extends the colors and movement of the content itself into the surrounding environment. The effect is designed to make the room feel more connected to whatever is unfolding on-screen. For a drama series that swings between quiet plotting sessions and full-scale dragon warfare, that extra layer of atmosphere can make a noticeable difference.

Govee Is Ready to Enhance Your TV Watching Experience

One of the biggest misconceptions about TV backlighting is that it’s supposed to compete with what’s happening on-screen. In reality, the best setups do the opposite. The television remains the focus, and the lighting simply supports what’s already there.

When dragonfire erupts across the screen, the room can reflect some of that warmth and intensity. When a scene shifts into darkness or shadow, the surrounding environment follows suit. The result isn’t distraction. It’s reinforcement. That’s particularly useful for a show like House of the Dragon, which uses lighting and color as storytelling tools.

The series often communicates mood through visuals long before a character says a word. A gloomy council meeting feels different from a triumphant arrival. A storm gathering over Dragonstone feels different from a sunlit moment of victory. Govee’s collaboration is built around that idea. Instead of treating lighting as an afterthought, it turns it into part of the overall viewing experience.

What Makes Govee TV Backlight 3 Different?

At the heart of the TV Backlight 3 is Govee’s color-matching technology. The system uses a dual-camera setup that analyzes what’s happening on-screen and synchronizes the backlighting in real time. Rather than displaying static colors, it actively responds to the content you’re watching. That distinction matters.

Traditional LED strips can add ambient lighting to a room, but they don’t necessarily react to the action unfolding on-screen. Govee’s system is designed to do exactly that, creating a more dynamic effect that changes alongside the show itself.

The TV Backlight 3 captures and processes visual information at up to 30 frames per second, helping the lighting keep pace with rapid scene changes. For House of the Dragon, that’s particularly important. A single episode can move from a candlelit strategy meeting to a dragon battle in seconds. The visual language of the series is constantly evolving, and the lighting system is built to respond just as quickly.

Govee’s high 74dB SNR sensor also helps improve color detection and synchronization, allowing the system to track subtle changes in brightness, contrast, and tone. That means viewers can experience more accurate transitions as scenes shift from warm torchlight to cold moonlight, from smoky battlefields to the fiery chaos of dragon combat. In a series where atmosphere is everything, those details matter.

There’s a Govee TV Backlight for Every Type of Viewer

Another advantage of the current lineup is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Govee offers multiple options depending on your setup, preferences, and budget. The lineup includes the TV Backlight 3 Lite, TV Backlight 3, and TV Backlight 3 Pro, with pricing ranging from $69.99 to $209.99.

For viewers looking to try reactive TV lighting for the first time, the TV Backlight 3 Lite serves as an accessible entry point. It’s a straightforward way to add more atmosphere to movie nights, gaming sessions, and weekly House of the Dragon watch parties.

The standard TV Backlight 3 builds on that foundation with enhanced color matching and real-time responsiveness, making it an attractive option for viewers who want a more advanced setup. At the top end of the lineup sits the TV Backlight 3 Pro, offering the most comprehensive version of the experience for users looking to get the most out of their home entertainment space.

Whether you’re a casual viewer catching episodes every Sunday night or the kind of fan who has spent years debating Targaryen succession laws online, there’s a setup designed to fit your needs.

What Can Fans Expect From ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3?

Fortunately, the timing of this collaboration couldn’t be better. Season 3 premiered Sunday, June 21 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO, and is also available to stream now on HBO Max. Based on everything we’ve seen so far, the series is finally delivering the war that has been looming since the show’s earliest episodes.

The trailers alone suggest that the conflict between Rhaenyra Targaryen and Team Green is finally reaching its breaking point. After two seasons spent carefully building alliances, rivalries, and mounting tensions, House of the Dragon appears ready to unleash the war that’s been looming over Westeros from the very beginning. The Dance of the Dragons is no longer a threat waiting on the horizon—it’s here. And with dragons serving as the ultimate weapons in Westeros, Season 3 looks set to deliver the large-scale battles and destruction fans have been anticipating for years.

Emma D’Arcy recently teased that Season 3 “starts at 60 miles an hour,” promising viewers the war that has been building across the first two seasons. Showrunner Ryan Condal has gone even further, revealing that the season opens with the legendary Battle of the Gullet and calling the premiere “arguably the craziest episode of television ever made.” rom a franchise that has delivered unforgettable spectacles like Hardhome, the Battle of the Bastards, and the Battle of Winterfell, fans are in for the biggest and most explosive return to Westeros yet.

With themed House of the Dragon lighting effects and the real-time responsiveness of the TV Backlight 3 lineup, Govee offers fans a way to bring a little more of Westeros into their homes. From candlelit intrigue to dragonfire-filled warfare, the system is designed to follow every twist, betrayal, and battle as it unfolds.

House of the Dragon Season 3 premiered June 21 on HBO and HBO Max, with new episodes releasing weekly through August 9. The Govee TV Backlight 3 lineup, including TV Backlight 3 Lite, TV Backlight 3, and TV Backlight 3 Pro, is available now.

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House of the Dragon

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Release Date

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August 21, 2022

Network

HBO

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Showrunner

George R.R. Martin

Directors

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Clare Kilner, Geeta Patel

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  Fabien Frankel

  Ser Criston Cole

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Please do not be alarmed—remain calm… Beyoncé‘s Parkwood Entertainment label has secured a legal victory in federal court.

In July 2025, Hirose Enterprises LLC, owned by Shuji Hirose, filed a lawsuit against the “Single Ladies” singer’s music label, alleging that it had used a sample from their 1998 song, “Moonraker,” without permission.

Their case was dismissed in late June 2026, though, after a judge said that the company had no legal grounds to sue because it filed its suit before the company was even formed.

Beyoncé’s “RENAISSANCE” album has been a cultural phenomenon since its summer 2022 release. During that time, the singer’s label faced other legal woes, as popular artists claimed she also used samples of their work in her songs without proper permission.

A U.S. district judge dismissed the copyright and breach-of-contract complaint filed by Hirose Enterprises in late June 2026, according to Billboard. In the original filing, Hirose claimed to own the rights to John Holiday’s 1998 song, “Moonraker,” which Queen Bey sampled in her 2022 single, “Alien Superstar.”

A rep from Parkwood Entertainment said that the label cleared the sample from Holiday himself, credited him as a songwriter on the track, and paid him $10,000 and 0.5% royalty share, per Complex. Despite that, Hirose claimed they were the true owners of the track and should’ve been involved in the administrative process.

The lawsuit, filed on July 29, 2025, was deemed invalid by the judge because Hirose Enterprises LLC was formed a week later in early August 2025.

A U.S. Judge Used Bey Lyrics In His Ruling On The Matter

The judge presiding over the copyright claim used lyrics from the song in question in his ruling.

“Please do not be alarmed, remain calm: like the DJ booth referenced in the works at issue, this district judge must conduct a troubleshoot test of the entire system—that is, a jurisdictional inquiry—before reaching any of the parties’ merits arguments,” he wrote. “Plaintiff had no legal existence at the time it brought suit, so it cannot have held a stake in the outcome of the litigation at the time it filed the complaint.”

“Alien Superstar” is the third track on Beyoncé’s Grammy-winning seventh studio album, “RENAISSANCE.” The album, released in July 2022, is all about self-expression and inspiring others to live their authentic lives. It’s also an ode to the LGBTQ+ community—a group of people Beyoncé thanked during the 2023 Grammy Awards.

Beyoncé Slammed English Duo Right Said Fred For Claiming She Sampled Their Work Without Permission

Hirose Enterprises LLC wasn’t the only party claiming Beyoncé and her team used samples from music they didn’t clear. In 2022, the English duo Right Said Fred attempted to take a swipe at Beyoncé on X, formerly Twitter, calling her “arrogant” for allegedly using a sample of their hit “I’m Too Sexy” without permission.

“Normally, the artist approaches us but Beyoncé didn’t because she is such an arrogant person. She just had probably thought ‘come and get me’ so we heard about it after the fact when you did. But everyone else, Drake and Taylor Swift, they came to us. To use our melody, they need our permission, so they send us the demo and we approve it and if so we get a co-write credit,” they wrote.

Queen Bey Paid Right Said Fred More Than Any Other Singular Writer On The Album

Prior to that, the group appeared to express their excitement about being featured on the project, writing, “It’s nice to get a writing credit on the new ‘Beyonce’ album. ‘Renaissance’ Credits: Drake, A. G. Cook, Syd, Right Said Fred, & More #Beyonce,” according to VIBE.

Beyoncé wouldn’t let the group’s claims slide, though, considering she and her team blasted their “erroneous and incredibly disparaging” comments in October 2022. “Permission was not only granted for its use, but they publicly spoke of their gratitude for being on the album,” the statement read.

Beyoncé and her team went on to say that, despite only using the composition of their song “I’m Too Sexy,” they were paid a considerable amount for approving the use. Additionally, Beyoncé said the Right Said Fred duo “own more than any other singular writer and have co-writer credit.”

Beyoncé’s Team Fired Back At A Designer Who Claimed They Weren’t Paid

Days later, on October 12, 2022, designer Nusi Quero alleged he wasn’t paid for styling work he did for the dance album. Two days later, a rep from Bey’s team told E! News that the claims were flat-out false.

“It is deeply troubling that designer Nusi Quero has posted damaging statements about Marni Senofonte regarding non-payments for work completed,” they said. “In fact, he was paid for his work, and there is proof of all payments made.”

The rep went on to say that two payments were made on May 9 and July 8. The third and final payment was returned due to an error on the designer’s part. After multiple attempts to reach him, a physical check was mailed on September 29.

2026 has been a great year for Studio Ghibli fans. Not only have the films been getting theatrical re-releases in the past few months, but the Ghibli Museum has also been busy releasing new exhibitions for fans to see, including a new short film. Now, another major announcement has been made that would make accessing these magical pieces of media even easier.

Since its creation in 1985, Studio Ghibli has released over 20 feature films, including award-winning hits like Spirited Away and The Boy and the Heron. Founded by Hayao Miyazaki, Toshio Suzuki, Isao Takahata, and Yasuyoshi Tokuma, Studio Ghibli has been renowned for its storytelling, animation, and whimsy, as it tells stories about young people dealing with problems that are relatable to a general audience. U.S. viewers can stream these films from home, while those in the UK and Ireland can watch them not only in theaters but also at home.

In a recent report, it was announced that GKids has acquired the Studio Ghibli library, giving the UK and Ireland the theatrical, home video, TV, and digital rights to the studio’s 23-film catalog. To celebrate this new deal, there will be an IMAX theatrical release of Kiki’s Delivery Service on August 21, followed by The Secret World of Arrietty and Whisper of the Heart. It was also confirmed that there will be a physical re-release of the entire Studio Ghibli library, including Spirited Away, The Boy and the Heron, Ponyo, Howl’s Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, and more. Additionally, it was reported that, from the fall of 2026 onward, GKids plans to “roll out further titles of the new Studio Ghibli 4K Remasters in IMAX and on physical media.”

GKids President David Jesteadt commented on the latest news, promising that the company will “take loving care” of Ghibli’s catalog and thanking the studio for its “continued trust and support.”

“We promise UK and Irish fans that we will take loving care of the Ghibli catalog, beginning with the IMAX release of Kiki’s Delivery Service this summer, and expand from there across all home video and digital platforms. Our deep thanks to our longtime friends at Goodfellas for entrusting us with these masterpieces and to everyone at Studio Ghibli for their continued trust and support.”

What To Watch If You Like Studio Ghibli

As UK and Ireland fans wait for August for this latest deal to take effect, there are other anime projects out there that can scratch that same itch. The first that comes to mind are any of the animated features directed by Makoto Shinkai, such as Your Name, Weathering With You, and Suzume. These films are just as good as the ones made by Studio Ghibli and have also received high praise for their animation, storytelling, and characters.

If you have Netflix, then A Whisker Away is a good movie to watch. It follows Miyo Sasaki (Mirai Shida/Cherami Leigh), who’s given a mask that allows her to transform into a cat. After transforming in and out of her cat persona, she decides to stay a cat forever, thinking her life would be better if she weren’t human. She eventually regrets her decision and has to find a way to return to her original form. Since its release in 2020, A Whisker Away has received high praise, earning a 93% critics’ score and a 77% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Kiki’s Delivery Service and other Studio Ghibli films are available to stream on HBO Max and Prime Video in the UK. Follow Collider for more updates.

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Release Date

July 29, 1989

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Runtime

103 Minutes

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YK Niece is setting the record straight about the viral moment that had social media talking. During a recent appearance on the ‘Pour Minds’ podcast, the rapper reflected on unexpectedly sharing the stage with Pluto Da Brat at NBA YoungBoy’s MASA Tour stop in Atlanta, and opened up about what happened behind the scenes.

Related: Reunited Or Just Business? Pluto &YK Niece Link Up For Performance At NBA YoungBoy’s ‘MASA’ Tour (VIDEOS)

YK Niece Opens Up About Viral Onstage Reunion With Pluto Da Brat

On a recent episode of ‘Pour Minds,’ YK Niece opened up about her relationship with fellow rapper Pluto Da Brat and addressed the viral moment the two shared onstage during NBA YoungBoy’s MASA Tour stop in Atlanta.

Podcast host Lex P asked about the performance that had the internet buzzing, prompting YK Niece to explain what happened from her perspective.

The moment unfolded when NBA YoungBoy surprised the crowd by bringing both YK Niece and Pluto Da Brat onstage to perform their collaboration, ‘Whim Whammie.’ The appearance immediately sparked conversation online as fans noticed the two artists remained on opposite sides of the stage and didn’t interact during the performance.

The viral moment came after YK Niece and Pluto Da Brat had publicly spoken about their falling out following the song’s release.

K Niece said she had no idea Pluto Da Brat would also be joining her onstage. The rapper explained that the moment wasn’t what she expected when she agreed to perform, and she admitted she was caught off guard when she realized what was happening. She added that if she ever decides to publicly reconcile with Pluto Da Brat, it will happen on her own terms and when she’s ready.

Social Media Reacts

YK Niece’s comments quickly sparked debate across social media, with users sharing mixed reactions to her explanation in TSRT’s comment section.

Instagram user @lexijanay wrote, “I mean she went, assessed the situation, ACTED ACCORDINGLY, made the fans happy, & still got PAIDDDD ‼️She did what she needed to do 🙂‍↕️👏🏾”

Another Instagram @anele_khambule wrote, “A job is a job 😭 you can just perform & ignore her being there… then go home”

While Instagram user @dreaa.mingg wrote, “She ain’t blame YB. love you yk ❤️”

Instagram user @ijanayg wrote, “Girl goodbye. If you felt like he set you up why you ain’t say that to him? You went right on ig after and said thank you to him and showed the money 😂”

Another Instagram user @dessencept2 wrote, “They tried to bring her out and put out an image like they cool and fixed the situation but like she said… she should have known wat was going on to maybe it would have went differently cause don’t try to play me 😭🤷🏽‍♀️😂”

While Instagram user @Idaijaxo wrote, “Yall she didn’t say nothing wrong about young boy. Please”

Instagram user @hollowtips55 wrote, “Be lucky you even had the chance to perform during the goat YB concert nobody cared about ya’ll beef it was about coming out for YB 😂”

Another Instagram user @dxja.aa_ wrote, “The industry so messy!”

While Instagram user @keiantadaishawn wrote, “Pluto thought she was gon’ be that one but it turned out to be YK 🤏🏽🤏🏽”

YK Niece Earns A Spot On The 2026 XXL Freshman Class

Despite the online conversation surrounding the performance, YK Niece continues to build momentum in her career. The rapper recently earned a spot on the 2026 XXL Freshman Class, joining a group of rising artists recognized by the publication as some of hip-hop’s most promising new voices.

This year’s class also includes Trim, La Reezy, Slayr, SoSoCamo, Trap Dickey, Belly Gang Kushington, Chris Patrick, Babyfxce E, Skrilla, Miles Minnick, and Hurricane Wisdom.

Related: All Love Now? Pluto Sends Heartfelt Message To YK Niece After Their Viral Online Feud (VIDEOS)

Kristin Chenoweth is all about the glitz and glamour when it comes to her hair and makeup on stage. But in her everyday life, the Broadway actress likes a more subdued (yet girly) look — one that’s easy to replicate with the right makeup tools.

She gave a sneak peek into her everyday makeup routine in a Get Ready With Me video, and we instantly zoomed in when she pulled out a Stila lip gloss that gave her an unbelievable shine. It swiped on so effortlessly and gave her lip combo the final touch that totally completed the look. We found the exact product on Amazon at a price that’s so in our budget.

Get the Stila Plumping Lip Glaze for $24 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Stila Plumping Lip Glaze has a way of giving you a hydrated, sparkly finish that will naturally draw all the eyes right to your pout. Chenoweth applied a lip pencil, lipstick and lip plumper, but couldn’t head out the door without putting on the Stila Plumping Lip Glaze. “I love lip stuff. I’m really good at that,” the actress said in the video. And her reaction after applying it? Priceless. “Hmm, hold up,” she commented.

Made with moisturizing ingredients that subtly plump the lip, this popular Stila pick provides a nice shine, makes lips feel super soft and gives them a little pout that still looks natural. You’ll know it’s working once you feel a slight tingle, but that sensation should subside after a few minutes.

The easy-to-use applicator is great for on-the-go use. Just twist the bottom and product will appear slowly at the top. And unlike other lip glosses that require the use of both hands — one to hold the tube and the other for the doe applicator — the Stila lip gloss only needs one. The lip brush makes the whole ordeal painless, so you can apply while walking to your date or hopping on the subway.

Shop the Stila glaze in tons of cute, shimmery options, including brown sugar, honey and chestnut, however, we’re more inclined to follow in Chenoweth’s footsteps. She swiped on the light and almost ethereal-like kitten shade for her daytime look, convincing Us to do the same.

The Wicked star isn’t the only one who loves it. Amazon shoppers are big fans with some claiming it “delivers both shine and comfort,” which are both huge selling points. “It goes on smoothly and gives lips a fuller, more polished look without feeling sticky,” the reviewer wrote. “I also love how hydrating it feels, keeping lips soft and glossy.”

Another person who called the gloss the “GOAT” wrote, “I fell in love with this click-style gloss a million years ago and I think about this lip-click gloss all the time.” They even said the “fullness that it gives your lips is remarkable.”

The fact that the Stila Plumping Lip Glaze has star-approval, long-lasting staying power and is only $24 is pretty remarkable. We’re snapping up the lip gloss on Amazon before everyone else gets wind.

Get the Stila Plumping Lip Glaze for $24 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
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Cindy Crawford and her daughter, Kaia Gerber, turned Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding into their own personal runway.

Crawford, 60, stunned in a one-shoulder black gown and styled her hair down in loose waves while attending the star-studded Friday, July 3, nuptials. For glam, Crawford — who shares daughter Kaia, 24, and son Presley with husband Rande Gerber — opted for brown smoky eyeshadow and makeup by Jamal Scott.

Kaia, meanwhile, coordinated her look with her mom by rocking a black gown with a sweetheart neckline. Kaia completed her look with a styled blowout featuring loose waves and parted in the middle, manicured brows and glossy lips with makeup by Scott.

“@kaiagerber for t&t 🪽,” hairstylist Joe Handwerker wrote via Instagram on Sunday, July 5.

Related: Donna Kelce Breaks Silence on Son Travis’ Wedding to Taylor Swift

Donna Kelce took in the 4th of July fireworks in Manhattan hours after her son Travis Kelce’s star-studded wedding to Taylor Swift. Donna was photographed during the 50th Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks on Saturday, July 4, where she watched the patriotic light display from New York City’s Pier 17. The Macy’s occasion marked the […]

The mother-daughter duo were not the only famous faces celebrating Swift and Kelce’s wedding on Friday. The couple opted to tie the knot in front of 1,000 of their closest friends and family members at New York City’s Madison Square Garden.

The nuptials were officiated by comedian Adam Sandler, with Swift and Kelce, both 36, opting to forego a traditional wedding party and instead have their siblings at the altar with them.

“Her brother, Austin Swift, served as Taylor’s ‘Man of Honor’ and Jason Kelce was Travis’ Best Man,” a statement from Taylor’s rep noted. “The ceremony joined both families together and was officiated by friend Adam Sandler.”

While few details about the big day — and the newlyweds’ looks — have been shared, a rep for Taylor revealed that the NFL player and pop star worked alongside Jonathan Anderson.

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“The bride and groom’s wedding ceremony looks have been created by Christian Dior Haute Couture. They are designed by Jonathan Anderson, Creative Director of Dior Women’s, Men’s and Haute Couture Collections, in close collaboration with the bride and groom,” the statement read. “This is the designer’s first couture wedding dress for a world-renowned celebrity. [Both of] their shoes were custom made by Christian Louboutin and the bride wore Cartier jewelry.”

After the nuptials, Madison Square Garden celebrated the big day with digital billboards that read: “JusT&T Married.” While Travis’ mom, Donna Kelce, remained tight-lipped about details of her son’s wedding, she gushed over the special moment.

“I really can’t say a heck of a lot,” Donna told Macy’s social media team while attending the 50th Macy’s 4th of July fireworks display the next day. “It was magical, man, magical.”

Over the course of the year so far, fans of fantasy movies have had plenty to be satisfied with and entertained by. From The Odyssey to Wildwood, the fantasy films that will likely be remembered as the best of 2026 by the time the year ends are yet to release; but with the first half of the year over, there have already been six particular movies that have satisfied the cravings for magic, mythological creatures, and grand adventurous quests that fantasy fans inevitable feel every year. None of these films are truly perfect, but they’ve all further proven that fantasy has been thriving throughout the 2020s.

Whether it’s a massive family blockbuster like The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, an underrated indie darling like Pizza Movie, or a future cult classic like Masters of the Universe, the best fantasy films of 2026 thus far will all likely be remembered as some of the most beloved films of the year by the time 2027 rolls in. They may be flawed, but they’re also delightfully creative and awfully entertaining. Regardless of how well they performed financially or critically, they should all be able to allow fantasy film fans to get their fix before the genre’s bigger releases start coming out throughout the second half of 2026.

6

‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’

For anyone even slightly familiar with the mere concept of video games, Mario needs no introduction. The 1983 arcade platformer Mario Bros. was where it all properly started; and from there, the plumber from Brooklyn who loves stepping on turtles became not just the face of Nintendo, but arguably of gaming as a whole. With that level of iconicity, it should come as no surprise that Illumination’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie performed as extraordinarily as it did at the box office back in 2023. Likewise, it was no surprise that a sequel was announced, and it was no surprise that The Super Mario Galaxy Movie became one of the highest-grossing animated movies at the worldwide box office.

It’s nowhere close to being a perfect animated film, nor even to being a perfect adaptation of one of the most beloved video games of all time. But even still, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is filled to the brim with colorful Easter eggs, delightful surprises, and fun bits of world-building for all Nintendo fans to enjoy. The score is delectably nostalgic, the characters are all fun to follow around, and the plot is more than satisfying enough for families. Part science fiction, part fantasy, and 100% a love letter to Mario’s history, this is a movie that all those who’ve grown up with Nintendo ought to give a chance.

5

‘Swapped’

Image via Netflix

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Led by Michael B. Jordan and Juno Temple delivering two of the most endearing voice performances of any animated movie from this year thus far, Swapped is further proof that Netflix has been keeping fantasy alive over the course of the first half of 2026. It’s one of the best fantasy movies of the last six years, at least as far as families are concerned. It’s unlikely to appeal to adult viewers on their own, unless they typically enjoy watching animated children’s media; but any family looking for a fun weekend watch that absolutely everyone will be able to enjoy should give Swapped, a perfectly serviceable buddy comedy, a shot.

There aren’t many surprises or unexpected story elements waiting here, as Swapped is definitely an all-too-familiar family fantasy movie the likes of which we’ve seen many times before. Sometimes, though, familiar films can feel like cinematic comfort food, and that’s precisely what all the love and passion that was clearly poured into Swapped‘s production elicits. Fun, visually striking, and greatly benefiting from having some genuinely imaginative world-building, it may not be one of the best animated movies on Netflix’s catalog of original films, but it’s nevertheless very much worth it for all those who love animated fantasy.

4

‘Cosmic Princess Kaguya!’

Image via Netflix

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Though not nearly enough people have actually watched it, Netflix’s Cosmic Princess Kaguya! is nevertheless one of the best anime movies of the 2020s so far. This animated musical represents Shingo Yamashita‘s feature directorial debut, and what a way to break onto the scene it is. Adaptations and reimaginings of the Japanese folktale The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter are aplenty, but few are even half as exquisitely creative, vibrant, and colorful as this one is. Is it perfect? Definitely not. For all its merits, the movie is at times a bit too messy with its wild ideas for its own sake. But are those ideas so fun that it’s easy to forgive some chaos in how they’re presented? Absolutely.

It’s a gem so refreshingly creative and so visually stunning that it fully earns the exclamation mark at the end of its title. It’s cyberpunk science fantasy at its most irresistibly entertaining, elevated by an unforgettable score and its mesmerizing visuals. It’s a dizzying romp in all the right ways, and though people who prefer fantasy when it’s a bit more coldly calculated won’t likely love the over-the-top way in which Yamashita approaches the material, it’s still a must-see for anyone who loves what anime has had to offer throughout the history of 2020s cinema.

3

‘Pizza Movie’

Image via Hulu

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The roots of true stoner comedies date as far back as the 1970s, and the subgenre has come an awfully long way since then. Passing through the teen films of the 1980s and the slacker comedies of the 1990s, we make it all the way to this year’s Pizza Movie, an awfully underappreciated absurdist stoner comedy that was a surprise streaming hit for Hulu. Perfect for those who love gonzo, psychedelic comedies full of energy that never lets up, Pizza Movie will surely not appeal to all cinephilic palates, but that’s precisely the source of its charm. It’s unapologetically quirky and unique, and that’s why it’s such a must-see.

Its fantasy elements are unconventional: Rather than being an actual, traditional quest carried out by mythical heroes, Pizza Movie takes an absurd, hallucinogenic drug trip and turns it into the source of an epic, surreal adventure unlike any other that 2026 has produced thus far. Starring Gaten Matarazzo at his most charming and hilarious, it’s a bonkers explosion of wild ideas that anyone who loves bizarre comedies should be able to enjoy greatly—sober or otherwise.

2

‘Masters of the Universe’

Image via Amazon MGM Studios

It’s not just those who grew up during the 1980s; anyone familiar with the American pop culture from that decade should be perfectly familiar with Masters of the Universe, Mattel’s sword-and-planet media franchise that originated with a beloved toy line and then transformed into one of the most iconic cartoons of all time. This year’s film of the same name, directed by Travis Knight, is the latest addition to that franchise, and it can already be counted among the best action movies of the last six years. It’s a science fantasy romp that unfortunately underperformed at the box office, but nostalgia and its sheer quality should be more than enough for it to become a bona fide cult classic soon enough.

Even if that never happens, however, Masters of the Universe still deserves to be credited as one of the best fantasy movies of 2026 thus far. The cast is phenomenal, the script is perfectly entertaining and clearly done with love for the original media franchise, and there’s just enough camp here to make it feel like Knight is never taking the material too seriously. It’s a self-aware popcorn flick unlike any other we’ve seen so far this year, and though it won’t likely remain among the most beloved films of the year by the time 2027 comes around, it was nevertheless a very refreshing surprise just how well it turned out.

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‘Toy Story 5’

Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Back in 2010, the Best Picture Oscar-nominated Toy Story 3 felt like the perfect conclusion that the Toy Story franchise could possibly come to. Nine years after that, however, came the controversial Toy Story 4, which nevertheless made its way to a Best Animated Feature Oscar. It has been seven years since then, and although it remains to be seen whether Pixar’s latest will be able to make its way to Academy Award gold, Toy Story 5 is nevertheless a surprisingly worthwhile addition to the franchise that birthed Pixar’s legendary feature film run. It may well be the weakest installment in the series thus far, but “the weakest Toy Story movie” is nevertheless a title that still implies terrific quality.

A film about the relationship that children have with technology and screens today felt like the perfect excuse to bring back Toy Story, but that’s precisely what makes Toy Story 5 so special. At no point does the introduction of devices feel like an excuse to return to these beloved characters; rather, it feels like a perfectly natural and logical progression for the franchise to see. With its powerful messages, its consistently jaw-dropping animation, and a deeply moving focus on Jessie that all fans of the series should love, Toy Story 5 never feels like a cashgrab. It’s not one of Pixar’s best, but it’s still fantastic enough to be the best fantasy movie of 2026 so far.

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Toy Story 5

Release Date

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June 19, 2026

Runtime

102 Minutes

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Director

Andrew Stanton, Kenna Harris

Writers

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Andrew Stanton, McKenna Jean Harris

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  Tim Allen

  Buzz Lightyear (voice)

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  Greta Lee

  Lilypad (voice)

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Karlie Kloss grinned for the cameras ahead of former BFF Taylor Swift’s wedding to Travis Kelce — but she’s staying tight-lipped in its aftermath.

In an Instagram video shared by Deux Moi on Sunday, July 5, the model, 33, was seen dodging a question about the couple’s nuptials, staged inside New York City’s Madison Square Garden two days prior. “How was Taylor’s wedding?” a photographer was heard asking Kloss as he followed her down a Paris street.

“How’s Paris treating you?” she said in response as she kept walking with dark sunglasses shielding her eyes.

Prior to her arrival in the French capital, Kloss and husband Joshua Kushner were spotted in full glam while making their way to the star-studded wedding on Friday, June 3. Kloss rocked a strapless gold dress for the event while Kushner, 41, looked dapper in a navy suit.

Related: Karlie Kloss Reacts to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Engagement

Karlie Kloss is showing no signs of bad blood after Taylor Swift announced her engagement to Travis Kelce. Hours after Swift, 35, confirmed via Instagram on Tuesday, August 26, that she is engaged, Kloss, 33, subtly reacted to the news by liking the post. “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married 🧨,” […]

Kloss’ attendance came as a surprise to fans, who are all too familiar with her falling out with Swift, 36, after the pair formed a close friendship in 2012. Their inseparable bond was publicly exhibited all the way up to and through 2015, when they shared a Vogue cover shoot together.

Fans were confused when their public interactions began to dwindle, with Kloss suddenly gushing about Swift via Instagram in 2016 after months of nothing. “Happiest of Birthdays to my ride or die @taylorswift ❤️🎂👯❤️,” Kloss wrote in December that year alongside a snap of Swift kissing her cheek. “I feel blessed to count you as my friend, sister and partner in crime. Can’t wait to celebrate together very soon ❤️🍪🍾.”

Signs of significant trouble in their relationship reared their head the following year when Kloss was omitted from Swift’s squad T-shirt in her “Look What You Made Me Do” music video. Their friendship then became a magnet for online speculation as breadcrumbs of their former closeness came even more sparingly, such as when Kloss shared a behind-the-scenes snap from Swift’s Eras Tour in August 2018.

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Eyebrows were raised again when Kloss “liked” Swift’s Instagram post that revealed her engagement to Kelce, also 36, in August last year. No other comments on the couple’s engagement were publicly made by Kloss.

Related: Kylie Kelce Dodges Question About Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s Wedding

Kylie Kelce is keeping any updates on Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s upcoming nuptials close to her chest. “Now that your brain is busy and you’re so focused on coloring, what can we expect from Taylor and Travis’ wedding?” podcast host Cameron Rogers asked Kylie, 33, on the Wednesday, March 25, episode of her “Conversations […]

In the weeks leading up to Swift’s wedding, TMZ reported that Kloss had scored an invitation after the former pals managed to put their past issues behind them.

Swift and Kelce exchanged vows inside the iconic entertainment arena in front of many celebrity faces. Right after the couple said “I do,” digital billboards outside the venue read, “JusT&T Married.”

Before Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. went through a long, very public struggle with addiction and legal trouble, and for a while it looked like Hollywood had moved on without him. Then came the role of Tony Stark in 2008 that propelled him to A-list stardom. From that point on, he has turned into one of the most bankable stars working in cinema, so much so that Marvel even brought him back after wrapping up his Iron Man arc, this time to play one of its biggest villains yet, Doctor Doom.

But Downey has been delivering memorable performances long before Iron Man, since the 1990s, in fact. And he’s never once shown up to simply collect a paycheck. Time and time again, he completely disappears into the role at hand and creates characters that are still talked about years later. So, here are some Robert Downey Jr. movies that are flat-out masterpieces.

‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ (2005)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is one of the funniest, most criminally underseen films of the 2000s. Downey plays Harry Lockhart, a small-time thief who stumbles into an acting audition while fleeing the scene of a botched robbery. The accidental audition goes surprisingly well, and he gets flown out to Los Angeles for a screen test. He is then paired with a private investigator named Gay Perry (Val Kilmer) for research purposes, and the two of them end up getting tangled in a deadly conspiracy.

Downey also serves as the film’s unreliable narrator, and he is insanely funny here. He tends to go off on unrelated tangents mid-scene. He constantly loses his train of thought. And every once in a while, he stops the movie to apologize for forgetting to explain something important that already happened. This kind of comedic device could become very gimmicky in lesser hands, but Downey makes it feel genuinely hilarious. If you love films like The Nice Guys, In Bruges, or The Gentlemen, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang should be at the top of your watchlist.

‘Chaplin’ (1992)

Image Via TriStar Pictures

The 1992 Richard Attenborough film follows Charlie Chaplin‘s life from his impoverished childhood in Edwardian London all the way through his rise to Hollywood superstardom. And from there, it also covers his turbulent string of marriages and his eventual exile from the United States during the Red Scare. It is a massive, sprawling story covering decades of one of the most fascinating lives in entertainment history.

But arguably the greatest thing about Chaplin is Downey’s performance. He perfectly captures Charlie Chaplin’s physical mannerisms, his comedic grace, and his tragic personal flaws with phenomenal precision, from his early twenties all the way into old age, and never once loses the thread of who this person was underneath the legend. It even earned Downey an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in 1993.

‘Tropic Thunder’ (2008)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Tropic Thunder is an action-comedy loaded with offensive jokes that eviscerate the Hollywood studio system and lampoon the toxic egos of A-list actors with a ferocity that no major studio film has really matched since. It’s the exact kind of movie Hollywood doesn’t make anymore. The premise follows a group of actors shooting a big-budget war film whose director drops them into an actual jungle with hidden cameras to capture the actors’ authentic performances. However, things soon spiral out of control when the actors stumble into the middle of an actual warzone and think it’s all make-believe.

Downey is especially funny here as Kirk Lazarus, a delusional, multi-Oscar-winning Australian method actor. And he is front and centre in what is considered the most iconic (and the most controversial) joke in the entire movie, where Downey appears in blackface because he’s extremely committed to his role as a Black Vietnam War sergeant, and goes around spouting the N-word. The irony is that the performance ended up earning him an actual Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

‘Oppenheimer’ (2023)

Image via Universal Pictures

Christopher Nolan‘s Oppenheimer follows J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), the theoretical physicist who spearheaded the Manhattan Project and built the atomic bomb, and the devastating personal consequences that followed. At the center of those consequences is Downey as Rear Admiral Lewis Strauss, the scheming bureaucrat who serves as the film’s primary antagonist and orchestrates the revocation of Oppenheimer’s security clearance during the paranoia of the Red Scare. Strauss begins the film as an ally and admirer of Oppenheimer before slowly letting his resentment curdle into something more bitter.

By 2023, Downey had spent over a decade almost exclusively playing Tony Stark, so seeing him take on a more dramatic villainous role with no quips and no arc of redemption was genuinely startling. He was playing completely against type, and he was extraordinary doing it. The performance was universally praised as the best of his career, and it also won him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

‘Iron Man’ (2008)

Image via Marvel Studios

No film on this list changed cinema quite like Iron Man. This was the movie that kick-started the MCU and turned the superhero genre into the cultural phenomenon that it is today. The story follows Tony Stark, a genius weapons manufacturer who is captured by terrorists while demonstrating his latest missile in Afghanistan. He builds a rudimentary suit of armor to escape and then comes home, shuts down his weapons division, and builds a better suit to become a full-time superhero.

It’s got great action sequences, a killer soundtrack, and delivers a perfectly satisfying superhero origin story, but none of it would have worked without Downey. He perfectly slid into the genius billionaire playboy philanthropist persona of Tony Stark like the role was explicitly written for him. Before his portrayal, Iron Man was no more than a B-list Marvel character. After Downey, he has become most people’s favorite superhero.

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Iron Man

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Release Date

April 30, 2008

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Runtime

126 minutes

Writers

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Matt Holloway, Art Marcum, Hawk Ostby

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s lavish New York City wedding featured heartfelt vows, emotional moments, and plenty of celebrity guests, but one of the ceremony’s biggest highlights came courtesy of Adam Sandler. 

The actor and comedian, who officiated the star-studded celebration, left the newlyweds with one surprisingly simple piece of marriage advice that resonated with everyone in attendance. 

According to Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid, it wasn’t an elaborate speech; it was a reminder that love thrives in life’s smallest moments.

Adam Sandler took on one of the most unexpected roles at Swift and Kelce’s wedding, serving as the officiant during the couple’s ceremony at Madison Square Garden. 

As The Blast reported, the choice surprised many fans, but a representative for the singer explained that Sandler was selected because he is a close friend of both the bride and groom who helped “join both families together.” 

The ceremony also broke with tradition, as the couple skipped bridesmaids and groomsmen altogether. 

Instead, Swift asked her brother, Austin, to stand beside her as her man of honor, while Kelce chose his brother, Jason, as his best man. 

Sandler’s involvement reflected the close bond he has developed with both stars over the years, from praising Swift’s kindness toward his family to building a friendship with Kelce while working together on a movie.

Sandler Shared One Simple Rule For Swift And Kelce

As one of the high-profile guests at Swift and Kelce’s Madison Square Garden wedding, Reid witnessed Adam Sandler’s memorable performance as officiant firsthand.

Speaking with CNN after the ceremony, Reid revealed that Sandler’s biggest message to the couple centered on one everyday habit.

“He said kiss every chance you get — every chance you have, every single day,” Reid shared, adding, “So whether you’re going to bed or going to work … go ahead and kiss her.”

For Reid, the advice stood out because of its simplicity. “And I thought that was … in a simple way, in its simplest form, really, was touching that way,” he shared.

The veteran coach later repeated the same message during a Sunday press conference, explaining why Sandler’s words stayed with him long after the ceremony ended.

“Hard to argue when you give your wife a kiss, or your wife gives you a kiss. Make sure you do it every day, every minute, if you have an opportunity to do it, knock it out, and you won’t have problems,” Reid said.

Adam Sandler Brought Humor And Heart To The Wedding Ceremony

While Sandler is best known for making audiences laugh, Reid said the comedian struck the perfect balance between comedy and sincerity while officiating the wedding.

The 68-year-old couldn’t help but praise Sandler’s approach. “In a simply, hysterical way, he was a phenomenal … he’s crazy, but he did a great job in getting them married with a lot of humor but that part there I thought, pretty good advice, in its simplest form,” Reid said.

The role was a fitting one for the “Grown Ups” actor, whose friendship with both Swift and Kelce has grown over the past several years.

His daughters, Sadie and Sunny, have long been devoted Swift fans. The family attended the Eras Tour in August 2023 before appearing together on the red carpet at the premiere of the concert film “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” later that year.

Sandler’s connection with Kelce also expanded professionally when he cast the NFL star in “Happy Gilmore 2.”

Kelce’s cameo quickly became one of the comedy’s most talked-about moments, with the tight end appearing in nothing but an apron while Bad Bunny’s character, Oscar, covered him in honey.

Sandler Knows A Thing Or Two About Lasting Love

Adam Sandler’s wedding advice carried extra weight because it came from someone who has enjoyed one of Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriages.

The actor has been married to his wife, Jackie, for over two decades, having tied the knot in June 2003. 

As The Blast reported, Sandler recently celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary by arranging a plane to skywrite “23 A J” across the sky before sharing the heartfelt moment on Instagram. 

He captioned the post, “Happy 23rd anniversary to my sweetheart. Love you forever,” earning praise from fans, celebrities, and even daughter Sadie, who reacted with heart emojis. 

She went further to celebrate her parents by sharing two throwback pictures of the couple on her Instagram stories. 

In the first photo, Sandler carried his wife over his shoulder, while the second showed them dancing.

Adam Sandler’s Hoodie Controversy Overshadowed Wife Jackie’s Real Concern

The anniversary celebration came shortly after reports that Sandler’s famously casual wardrobe choices left Jackie embarrassed on the red carpet.

As The Blast reported, Sandler sparked online backlash after arriving at Jackie’s “Office Romance” premiere in a New York Knicks hoodie, sweatpants, and sneakers, but insiders insisted the criticism missed what actually mattered in their marriage. 

According to the report, Jackie had long embraced her husband’s famously casual style. “Adam and Jackie have been together for decades, and while there was a time when Jackie wasn’t always thrilled with Adam’s outfit choices, she’s long since grown used to them and fully accepts his laid-back style,” a source said. 

The insider added, “At the end of the day, he shows up for her in all the ways that truly matter,” describing the actor as “loving, genuine, and consistently supportive.”