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By Chris Snellgrove
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Star Trek: Voyager wasn’t every fan’s cup of tea, especially if you preferred the darker, more serialized misadventures over on Deep Space Nine. However, Voyager did one thing arguably better than any Trek before or since: demonstrating just how weird exploring the galaxy can get. This is especially true in “Persistence of Vision,” an episode where the crew is forced to have increasingly bizarre hallucinations that cause some characters to reflect on the past. This includes Captain Janeway, who sees a vision of the husband that she left back in the Alpha Quadrant. Other characters hallucinate in different ways, including Chief Engineer B’elana Torres.
Normally, this hotheaded half-Klingon is all business, especially during an emergency. However, she ends up hallucinating a sexual fantasy involving Commander Chakotay, which many fans thought meant that she secretly had feelings for him. Incidentally, Chakotay actor Robert Beltran thought the same thing, and he imagined this episode might be setting up a relationship between their characters in later episodes. However, Torres actor Roxann Dawson pushed back against these claims, arguing there was simply no way that her character would fall in love with the ship’s first officer.

The premise of “Persistence of Vision” begins like many Star Trek: Voyager episodes: with the ship getting ready to make contact with an exotic race of aliens. The Botha are standoffish at first, but are willing to negotiate with Captain Janeway about safe passage through their little corner of the Delta Quadrant. Soon, crew members start seeing wild hallucinations and have no idea why this is happening. Eventually, it is revealed that these hallucinations are being caused by a telepathic Bothan. While everyone sees different things, B’elanna Torres gets an especially spicy fantasy involving Commander Chakotay.
Somewhat disappointingly, we find out that the Bothan caused all these chaotic hallucinations simply because he could. Janeway speculates that the alien might have done everyone a favor by forcing them to confront buried emotions. Because of this, Chakotay actor Robert Beltran believed that Torres must be secretly holding a candle for his own character. In an interview with The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine, he said, “That was very interesting to me because it revealed in Torres how she might be feeling about Chakotay. This entity reveals all of our fantasies, and we got to see how she feels about him.”

In that same interview, Beltran speculated that his character might harbor secret feelings for Torres. “Maybe he’ll feel the same for her,” he said. “That’s not quite confirmed, but it’s possible, and it sets the stage for some further development of their relationship.” It’s a provocative idea, one that is even explored in Pathways, a Star Trek: Voyager book written by “Persistence of Vision” screenwriter Jeri Taylor. However, one person who has been fighting this interpretation from the very beginning is B’elanna Torres actor Roxann Dawson.
In an interview with Cinefantastique, Dawson said, “the strength of that alien, the way he could get to us as Humans, was that he understands the deep need…we all have to love and to be loved.” She believes that her character’s “trance” was not “a reflection of a direct attraction to Chakotay” but instead “a desire to give in to a side that she does not give into easily…I don’t think that necessarily means that he is always on her mind…it was more of a reflection of her need to please, to fulfill, all of these things are very real, very human.”

In other words, since Torres is half-human, half-Klingon, the telepathic trance temporarily brought out human aspects (like being a lonely people pleaser) that she often tries to repress. In another interview with Star Trek Monthly, she opened up about how weird it would be for her character to love Chakotay, someone who is basically a surrogate father to her. “I see Chakotay as a combination of mentor and father figure for B’Elanna. She might have some romantic feelings towards him in a kind of Freudian sense, but I don’t see them getting together on any other level than as a mentor and pupil.”
This is one argument that Roxann Dawson ultimately won. There weren’t many sparks between B’elanna Torres and Commander Chakotay after this, and her character eventually ended up with Robert Duncan McNeil’s Tom Paris. Chakotay remained relatively unlucky in love, never hooking up with Captain Janeway despite lots of heavy-handed flirting. He finally hooked up with Seven of Nine in the last four episodes of Star Trek: Voyager, but they are apparently broken up by the time of Star Trek: Picard. That’s okay, though: Chakotay likely would have been just as checked out of any romantic relationship as Robert Beltran was checked out of his performance!
The aprons are off, the final “Yes, Chef!” has been uttered, and The Bear has finally closed its doors with Season 5. Since 2022, audiences have followed Carmy Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) and his motley crew as they transformed the once-dingy The Original Beef into the fine-dining restaurant The Bear. It was never a smooth ride. Over five seasons, the series captured the relentless pressure of running a restaurant while exploring the personal struggles that each member of the kitchen brigade brought through its doors.
In between the nonsensical screaming, the burnt meats, and panic attacks by the garbage, The Bear has always been a story about finding a chosen family. Individually, these deeply flawed characters are more than willing to call each other out. Together they somehow become a well-oiled machine when it matters most. Every season introduces different ingredients to the table, whether it’s risky creative swings, character growth, or unresolved conflicts. Some installments are simply better seasoned than others. With the series now complete, here’s every season of The Bear, ranked.
For a season that literally takes place after the much-awaited opening of The Bear restaurant, audiences would expect to see more of the carnage inside the kitchen and among the restaurant staff. However, Season 3 of The Bear has quite the tonal mismatch. Instead of bringing audiences deeper into the action of the kitchen, it spends more time inside Carmy’s psyche, giving more background on why he wanted to open a restaurant in the first place. This creates some confusion because the season hyperfocuses on Carmy’s existential crisis as a chef instead of showing how the restaurant is actually operating under its increasingly worrying circumstances.
However, Season 3 also gifted audiences with some standout episodes. Season 3, Episode 6, “Napkins,” is a touching tribute to Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas) that captures the fear of being laid off and the struggle of finding a new job, ultimately leading her to cross paths with Mikey (Jon Bernthal) and discover a cooking career she never expected. Even more emotional is “Ice Chips,” where Sugar (Abby Elliott) goes into labor with only Donna (Jamie Lee Curtis) by her side. It’s no secret that Sugar and Donna have the most troubled relationship in the series. Putting them together in such a life-or-death situation creates incredible tension while delivering some of the most vulnerable moments between mother and daughter.
Season 4 of The Bear might stray away from the chaos of its earlier seasons, which, again, feels at odds with what came before. However, arguably, its slower pace also serves as a much-needed breather before the show approaches its final season. It’s the season where Carmy realizes he can no longer avoid the demons inside his head. Everything that clouded his mind over the previous seasons is finally, and satisfactorily, externalized as he embarks on an extensive apology tour to Claire (Molly Gordon), Donna, and even Cousin Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). It’s also the season where Carmy finally faces the inevitable truth: he might be good at cooking, but he might not love it anymore.
There’s not much of the restaurant action fans were expecting, which is a disappointing continuation of Season 3’s biggest flaw. However, family is a major theme throughout Season 4. Whether it’s Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) reconnecting with her cousin Chantel (Danielle Deadwyler) and her daughter T.J. (Arion King) while getting her hair done in Episode 4, “Worms,” or the Berzattos mending broken bridges at a wedding in Episode 7, “Bears,” Season 4 is all about finding closure. And no closure is more important than in the Season 4 finale, which is The Bear‘s most experimental episode yet, unfolding almost entirely through a single, uninterrupted conversation in the back of the restaurant.
Just like a well-rounded dish, Season 5 is the perfect balance of all the ingredients from its four previous seasons. It has the unexpected chaos of a kitchen gone absolutely haywire from torrential Chicago storms and a flooded restaurant, the good old-fashioned Carmy and Sydney fallouts and makeups, and the emotional growth that comes from overcoming the impossible. Most importantly, it finally gives audiences the action they’ve been waiting for with one unforgettable night of restaurant service. The episode not only highlights the chefs but also the front of house, showing how this imperfect team somehow works like a well-oiled machine under the immense pressure of their restaurant potentially being closed.
The only flaw is that some episodes feel like filler, particularly Episodes 2 and 3, as they mainly focus on the prep leading up to the night of service. Even so, Season 5 is much more experimental, following just one night of service in a way that arguably feels The Pitt-esque, minus the one-take format. It also takes a bold risk by ramping up the tension, from Uncle Jimmy (Oliver Platt) feeling more betrayed by Carmy than ever before to the unexpected fistfight between The Bear‘s biggest bromance, Marcus (Lionel Boyce) and Luca (Will Poulter). Best of all, there are barely any major guest-star cameos — Mikey included. Much of the attention stays on the crew itself, making this a season that truly belongs to the OG cast.
Although the discourse around it was controversial, especially during awards season, Season 1 is proof that The Bear is a comedy. Not pure sitcom comedy, but dark, dramatic comedy nevertheless. It turns everyone’s worst nightmare of working in a restaurant kitchen into something both stressful and weirdly hilarious. Between its frantic camerawork, unforgiving dialogue, and constant talking over one another, the season throws viewers into a workplace that is as chaotic as it is dysfunctional. It’s unabashedly messy and symbolic of what it’s like working in a cramped, dirty kitchen that’s practically a health and HVAC hazard. The fact that the kitchen eventually catches fire in the finale perfectly sums up just how unfit The Original Beef really was.
And yet, it’s this relentless chaos that makes some of Season 1’s funniest moments land. The humor comes from the sheer absurdity of everything constantly going wrong, and nobody is well-adjusted enough to fix things properly. The staff can barely talk to each other, let alone cook together. But beneath all the shouting and fighting, the season is really about these cooks finding their place in the restaurant. They resist Carmy’s new system and the roles he’s trying to build, but once everything finally starts to click, all the chaos and hard work pay off in a genuinely satisfying way.
Season 2 of The Bear has the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, altogether making it the best installment of the series. It’s where nearly every character experiences a breakthrough, and the season takes the time to show the work behind that growth instead of simply handing it to them. Audiences watch Tina and Ebra (Edwin Lee Gibson) attend culinary school in Episode 2, “Pasta” (granted, Ebra drops out, but he eventually finds his own path in Season 4 on his own terms), Marcus stage as a pastry chef in Copenhagen in Episode 4, “Honeydew,” and, most importantly, Richie finally realize the importance of his role in the show’s most celebrated episode yet, Episode 7, “Forks.” Watching these characters — many of whom entered the restaurant with little to no fine-dining experience — finally find their place in the industry makes their journeys all the more beautiful and inspiring.
That said, not everything is sweet in Season 2. The sophomore season isn’t afraid of breaking audiences’ hearts with the most devastating twists. Just as Carmy thinks he’s found happiness outside the kitchen, he sabotages it during his infamous fridge meltdown on opening night. Marcus struggles to care for his terminally ill mother, who eventually passes away and numbs him later in the series. Then there’s the dramatic flashback episode, “Fishes,” which shows the Berzattos’ main source of trauma. Donna’s alcoholism and self-martyrdom reveal why Carmy, Natalie, and Mikey have carried so many scars into adulthood. By the finale, The Bear may finally be open for business. Emotionally, its staff has only just begun opening their emotional baggage.
2022 – 2026-00-00
Hulu
Christopher Storer
Ramy Youssef
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Queen Camilla posed with Rowling in a social media post that drew intense pushback online. “During Pride month, is a statement,” one wrote.
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We’ve seen celebs wear cutoff, patch-pocket and even purple jeans, but Mariska Hargitay‘s embroidered pair are a new level of chic. The pants style simply screams ‘Hamptons boutique,’ and we found a similar summer look hiding on Amazon — for only $35.
Spotted walking through New York City with a coffee mug in hand, Hargitay traded her usual sleek tailoring for something far more playful: a soft T-shirt, a Knicks baseball cap and khaki wide-leg pants covered in floral embroidery. The combo was cute yet elevated, and her fun pants choice definitely added whimsy to tried-and-true basics.
Get the Utcoco Wide-Leg Embroidered Pants for $35 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
These Utcoco Wide-Leg Embroidered Pants look just like the bottoms Hargitay wore, featuring the same beige base, unique embroidery and easy wide-leg drape. However, the Amazon alternative goes the extra mile, thanks to a frilly hem that adds a touch of romance and front seams that quietly elongate the legs.
It goes without saying that these denim pants are chicer and infinitely more interesting than plain old blue jeans. Pair them with a crisp white tee and sneakers for daytime errands, then swap in a lacy tank and sandals when dinner reservations call. There’s no need to go all out here — the bold bottoms are the statement piece, so everything you pair with it can be somewhat simple.
On top of making even a T-shirt look intentional, the artsy denim style is also mega comfortable. One five-star fan shared, “The material feels sturdy like a jean rather than a jegging, but are still stretchy and movable . . . They’re lightweight, soft and comfy, but solid jeans.”
Hargitay knows that the right pants can carry an entire wardrobe, and these embroidered wonders are an easy way to turn even your easiest outfits into a fashion-forward ensemble. Steal the star’s New York cool-mom formula and see how quickly the Utcoco bottoms become your most-worn piece!
Get the Utcoco Wide-Leg Embroidered Pants for $35 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Not what you’re looking for? Shop other chic pants and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
Fab Factory Studios has taken a strategic stake in Milkyway Brands, the Los Angeles-based merchandise and fulfillment company, and moved the operation into dedicated warehouse space on its North Hollywood campus. The investment signals a broader shift in entertainment economics: creators now view merchandise as a real business line, not an afterthought.

Fab Factory has spent the past decade building one of Los Angeles’ largest privately held production ecosystems. The company operates more than 120,000 square feet of production, post-production and event infrastructure across North Hollywood and East Hollywood. Its client roster spans SZA, will.i.am, The Chainsmokers, Post Malone and Hit-Boy in music, plus film and television projects including Joker, Venom and The Rings of Power.
The Milkyway investment extends that infrastructure into a new revenue stream. By housing Milkyway’s design, manufacturing and fulfillment operations under the same roof as Fab Factory’s studios and post-production bays, the companies have created what amounts to a vertical merchandise pipeline. An artist recording in Fab Factory’s studio can move directly into Milkyway’s production space to manufacture apparel bearing their brand.
Milkyway Brands was founded by Franco Infante, who scaled the company from a phone-case startup into a full-service merchandise operation serving artists, creators, sports properties and brands. His client roster has included Jhené Aiko, A$AP Rocky, Kevin Hart, Anderson. Paak, the LA Clippers and Jordan Brand.

The company identified a clear market gap. Most artists outsource merchandise to third-party vendors scattered across multiple supply chains, creating delays, quality inconsistencies and higher fulfillment costs. Milkyway controls the entire process in-house: apparel design, manufacturing, decoration and drop-ship fulfillment.
In 2025, Infante launched Prjct Blanks, a proprietary line of premium blanks manufactured and finished on Milkyway’s own equipment. The company is also building Prjct Merch, a Shopify-connected platform that allows customers to upload artwork, receive instant pricing and route jobs directly into production.
The Fab Factory investment brings both capital and creative adjacency to the Milkyway operation. Tai Savet, who led the business acquisition, joined as an investor alongside Ketrina “Taz” Askew, longtime manager of Grammy-nominated artist Jhené Aiko, and Chris Cyre, a music and merchandise veteran.

For Fab Factory chairman Steven Fabos, the strategy builds on a proven playbook. Before founding Fab Factory, Fabos started Steven Charles, a gourmet dessert company that became the private-label supplier behind Starbucks’ cake pops and was later acquired by Bain Capital-backed DessertHoldings. He has consistently pursued vertical ownership across his business ventures.
“Quality becomes defensible when you own the infrastructure,” Fabos said. “Milkyway has the same DNA: own the product, own the process and build something that can scale without losing its standard.”
The deal reflects a maturation in how artists view merchandise revenue. Creators are no longer treating product as a peripheral brand extension. Apparel, blanks and limited-edition merchandise are now core business lines with real margin potential.
Infante said creators increasingly demand that merchandise quality match the quality of their content. An artist with a global fanbase cannot afford to sell low-quality apparel bearing their name; it damages the brand. By controlling manufacturing, Milkyway ensures every product meets the production standard the brand requires.
Savet, who led the acquisition, framed the partnership in those terms. “Fab Factory sits at the source of culture. Milkyway gives that culture a product engine. When those two businesses operate under one roof, every recording session, campaign, fan moment and brand activation has a direct path to commerce,” he said.
From a business standpoint, the investment addresses a structural problem in creator monetization. Artists have historically ceded merchandise revenue to third-party operators in exchange for outsourcing operational complexity. By moving that function in-house, Fab Factory and Milkyway are capturing margin at multiple points: manufacturing, decoration, fulfillment, and potentially platform licensing through Prjct Merch.
The campus consolidation also improves operational efficiency. A brand can now shoot content, produce video, design merchandise and manufacture apparel without coordinating across multiple vendors and supply chains. That speed translates to faster time-to-market for limited-edition drops and faster inventory turns.
For Fab Factory, the investment extends its role beyond studio operator into a comprehensive entertainment infrastructure platform. The company now owns the full creator pipeline: content creation, post-production and commerce fulfillment. That ownership structure increases customer switching costs and makes Fab Factory a more valuable strategic asset for entertainment companies and management firms seeking integrated production services.
Terms of the investment were not disclosed.
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Roach claimed new “Project Runway” contestant and former “Drag Race” queen Plane Jane reused a look from the RuPaul-hosted show’s runway.
The gangster genre has been an enduring genre for nearly a century, evolving to reflect the times, from the Prohibition era to the modern age. Some of these movies have been staples in cinema, not only the best of the genre. They have a common theme: they reveal the human drama behind the violence, whether it’s set in Las Vegas or Hong Kong. This universality has made them favorites for cinephiles and casual audiences alike.
The gangster movies on this list have little to no flaws, featuring unforgettable performances, masterful direction, and stories that remain just as compelling decades after their release. You’ll find the usual suspects on this list, like Martin Scorsese, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci (The Irishman is not included, though), but also there are movies that you may have missed or underappreciated before. These are the gangster movies that are perfect in all senses of the word.
Based on a true story, Donnie Brasco follows FBI agent Joseph Pistone (Johnny Depp) as he infiltrates the New York mafia under the alias Donnie Brasco. His mission is to gain the trust of aging mobster Lefty Ruggiero (Al Pacino) and gather intelligence on the operation from the inside. While he tries to stay committed, Donnie develops a genuine friendship with Lefty and struggles to maintain his double identity.
Unlike many gangster films that focus on powerful crime bosses, Donnie Brasco explores organized crime from the perspective of smaller people in the organization. Its greatest strength lies in the relationship between Donnie and Lefty, which becomes increasingly tragic as the story progresses. Both men are ultimately victims of circumstances they cannot fully control. Depp and Pacino gave nuanced and emotional performances, making Donnie Brasco one of the most rewatchable gangster movies in recent memory.
Eastern Promises begins when a midwife named Anna (Naomi Watts) investigates the identity of the woman she helped give birth to. The clues lead her into the Russian mafia and its trusted driver, Nikolai Luzhin (Viggo Mortensen). As Anna digs deeper, she finds a darker conspiracy that leads the mafia boss to threaten her to stop.
Directed by David Cronenberg, Eastern Promises is one of the best modern gangster films because of its detailed character work and moral complexity. Cronenberg avoids many of the genre’s familiar clichés, and follows the story through the eye of an outsider, making it more immersive. Mortensen’s Nikolai is one of the most fascinating characters in the genre for his layered and enigmatic character. With its unforgettable sequences, particularly the bathhouse fight sequence, Eastern Promises is one of those films that’s just perfect in all aspects.
Set during the Prohibition era, Miller’s Crossing follows Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne), the trusted adviser to Irish mob boss Leo O’Bannon (Albert Finney). When tensions escalate between O’Bannon and rival Italian gangster, Tom finds himself caught in the middle. Complicating matters further is Verna (Marcia Gay Harden), a woman romantically involved with both Leo and Tom, whose connections to the conflict make everything more dangerous.
Miller’s Crossing is one of the most underrated gangster films. Directed by the Coen Brothers with stunning cinematography by Barry Sonnenfeld, the film is an intricate and dense chess match. While other gangster films focus on the action and violence, Miller’s Crossing focuses on grounded conflict about loyalty and trust. The Byrne/Finney duo deliver astonishing performances, while being supported by a quirky and memorable set of characters filled with the Coens’ friends. The film was a box office failure, which hampered its impact. Nevertheless, that doesn’t stop some critics and audiences from raving and even comparing it to The Godfather trilogy.
Infernal Affairs centers on two men: Chan Wing-yan (Tony Leung) is an undercover police officer who has spent years infiltrating a powerful triad organization, while Lau Kin-ming (Andy Lau) is a gang member secretly working within the police force as a mole for the criminal underworld. As both of their bosses realize they have a mole in their respective organizations, the two men desperately try to uncover the other’s identity before their cover is blown.
Infernal Affairs is one of the best imports from the vast library of Hong Kong gangster cinema. The premise might sound common, but the execution is simply extraordinary. Rather than focusing primarily on crime itself, the film examines the emotional toll of living a double life for years. Both protagonists are trapped between their identities, while also showing what could have been if they were on the other side. The relentless pacing and expertly crafted suspense make it a must-see. It famously inspired Martin Scorsese‘s The Departed, yet many still regard the original as the sharper and more emotionally resonant film.
The Untouchables follows Treasury agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) as he attempts to bring down notorious crime boss Al Capone (Robert De Niro). Frustrated by widespread corruption within law enforcement, Ness assembles a small team of trustworthy officers, which includes Irish-American vet James Malone (Sean Connery) and ace trainee George Stone (Andy Garcia), to challenge Capone’s criminal empire.
Blending historical drama with the thrills of a classic Hollywood thriller, The Untouchables was a critical hit upon its release. Brian De Palma directs the film with suspenseful and memorable sequences, particularly the famous train station shootout. The film also benefits from larger-than-life performances from the all-star ensemble cast that elevate the story while remaining emotionally engaging. As a result, Connery was awarded a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his performance. Rounded out by a beautiful score by Ennio Morricone and great production design, The Untouchables is one of the best gangster films of its decade.
Casino follows the rise and fall of Ace Rothstein (Robert De Niro), a gambling expert chosen by the mob to oversee a major casino operation in Las Vegas. Ace becomes one of the most influential figures on the Strip, while his volatile friend Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci) enforces the mob’s interests through violence. At the same time, Ace’s troubled marriage to Ginger (Sharon Stone) spirals out of control, creating personal problems that affect the evolving empire.
The list is entering the Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro territory now. The famed director is no stranger to gangster films, and with Casino, he dives into organized crime at its most glamorous and highest levels. Clocking in at over three hours, the film is remarkable for its attention to detail, offering a comprehensive look at how mob-controlled casinos operated at their peak. With its lavish visuals and energetic storytelling, it also plays out as a cautionary tale about power and self-destruction. Released so close to Goodfellas, the film did not enjoy the same love from critics and awards, but Casino surely has to be watched on its own merits because there are definitely plenty of them.
Road to Perdition follows Michael Sullivan (Tom Hanks), an Irish mob enforcer whose idyllic life is threatened after his son (Tyler Hoechlin) witnesses a murder. Eager to tie up loose ends, the son of the mob family (Daniel Craig) targets Sullivan and his loved ones, which then forces Sullivan and his son to flee across the Midwest while being hunted by a contract killer (Jude Law).
Based on a graphic novel series from DC Comics, Road to Perdition is a stylish and solid gangster drama, anchored by a powerful father-son relationship. Sam Mendes approaches the story through its characters first, while also delivering the usual gangster-film thrills. The film features stunning, Oscar-winning cinematography that turns even moments of brutality into visual poetry, while its performances from heavyweight actors like Paul Newman, Tom Hanks, and Jude Law provide emotional weight and entertainment. Road to Perdition is a deeply moving crime epic that combines the grandeur of classic gangster cinema with a focus on family and legacy.
Inspired by real events, Goodfellas follows Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a young man who has dreamed of becoming a gangster ever since he was a kid. Henry gradually earns the trust of mobsters Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro) and Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci). Enjoying the wealth and influence that comes with the job, Henry becomes consumed by the lifestyle until the consequences catch up with him.
Goodfellas is considered the best gangster saga and the best Martin Scorsese film. From its opening narration, it is iconic. The famous tracking shots, colorful, memorable characters, and soundtrack all come together to create this masterpiece. Scorsese’s direction makes the audience feel the allure of the criminal world before exposing its ugliness. Goodfellas strips away romantic notions about gangsters by revealing the pettiness and greed beneath the glamour. This exhilarating crime story won Scorsese his Silver Lion for Best Director when it premiered at the Venice Film Festival, and went on to be nominated for six Oscars, winning one for Pesci.
Spanning several decades, Once Upon a Time in America follows David “Noodles” Aaronson (Robert De Niro) and his friend Max Bercovicz (James Woods) as they rise from street criminals in New York’s Lower East Side to powerful gangsters during the Prohibition era. As the gang grows richer and more influential, their relationships become strained by greed and jealousy.
Sergio Leone‘s final film is often overlooked in the gangster genre because of its epic scale. The colossal runtime resulted in the American distributors cutting the film down from nearly four hours to just two hours and twenty minutes. As a result, many cinephiles and fans seek the European cut, which is more sweeping and immersive. Tackling three different timelines, the film is ambitious and sprawling, providing the allure of the gangster world and regrets. Its dreamlike storytelling, sweeping cinematography, and haunting score by Ennio Morricone create an atmosphere unlike anything else in the genre. It is a great swan song for an influential director like Leone.
The Godfather follows the powerful Corleone crime family headed by the aging patriarch Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) as he refuses to enter the narcotics trade, a decision that sparks a violent conflict with rival families. When Vito is nearly assassinated, his reluctant son Michael (Al Pacino), who initially wants nothing to do with the family business, is drawn into the criminal world and assumes his position as a leader.
What makes The Godfather arguably the greatest gangster film ever made is how it transcends the genre. Francis Ford Coppola crafts a story that functions as both a mafia saga and a Shakespearean family tragedy. The film itself showcases filmmaking at its best, where the lighting, blocking, music and performances all come together as a unit. Every character feels fully realized, from Vito’s quiet authority to Michael’s chilling descent into moral darkness. The film was nominated for eight Oscars and won three, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Brando. It is followed by two equally exemplary sequels that expand the Corleone family story in the underworld.
After years of speculation, Cara Delevingne is finally setting the record straight about her relationship with Amber Heard. The model and actress confirmed that she and Heard were romantically involved following the actress’ split from Johnny Depp, shedding new light on a rumor that has circulated in Hollywood for nearly a decade.
Delevingne made the revelation during a recent appearance on “The Louis Theroux Podcast,” where she discussed her connection to Heard and addressed long-standing reports that their relationship played a role in Depp’s jealousy.

Rumors about Heard and Delevingne first surfaced in 2016 after the “Aquaman” actress finalized her divorce settlement with Depp and was photographed spending time with the supermodel in London. Now, Delevingne has confirmed there was truth behind the speculation.
“We were close for a long time, and then when they were going through the divorce, yeah, we were entangled, I suppose,” Delevingne said during the interview.
The actress later clarified there was no uncertainty about what happened between them. “Later, after they divorced, it had, I suppose… No, I don’t suppose. I know. Yeah,” she said.

According to Delevingne, her history with Heard dates back to 2013, when both women appeared in the film “London Fields” alongside Depp.
The movie, which starred Billy Bob Thornton, became notorious for behind-the-scenes legal battles between its director and producers. But Delevingne suggested there was also personal drama unfolding among some of the cast members.
Host Louis Theroux referenced reports that Depp had become upset over the possibility that Heard and Delevingne were involved romantically. “He was driven crazy by the idea that Amber might be sleeping with you,” Theroux said.
Delevingne acknowledged Depp’s jealousy but insisted nothing romantic was happening between her and Heard at that time. “Nothing was happening at that point,” she recalled.
She also claimed Depp “was pretty driven crazy by jealousy” during the filming of London Fields, which took place years before the couple eventually married.

While discussing her relationship with Heard, Delevingne suggested she wasn’t the only person romantically involved with the actress after her divorce. According to Delevingne, Heard “was also entangled with other people.”
When Theroux suggested one of those people was Elon Musk, Delevingne responded, “There you go.”
Heard and Musk were romantically linked after her divorce from Depp, with the billionaire and the actress maintaining an on-again, off-again relationship for several years.

The revelations come years after Depp and Heard’s highly publicized legal fight dominated headlines around the world. In 2019, Depp filed a defamation lawsuit against Heard over a Washington Post op-ed in which she described herself as a survivor of domestic abuse. Although Heard never mentioned Depp by name, the actor argued the article damaged his reputation and career.
The 2022 trial became one of the most closely watched celebrity court cases in recent history, generating weeks of testimony, viral moments, and intense public scrutiny. Several high-profile figures, including Kate Moss and Ellen Barkin, testified during the proceedings.
Ultimately, the jury sided largely with Depp and awarded him millions in damages, though the final amount was later reduced.

Following the verdict, Depp released an emotional statement reflecting on the impact the allegations had on his personal and professional life.
“Six years ago, my life, the life of my children, the lives of those closest to me, and also, the lives of the people, who for many, many years have supported and believed in me were forever changed. All in the blink of an eye,” he said.
Depp also criticized what he described as an overwhelming wave of accusations and media coverage. “It had already traveled around the world twice within a nanosecond and it had a seismic impact on my life and my career,” he said. “And six years later, the jury gave me my life back. I am truly humbled.”
He further claimed the media circulated “false, very serious and criminal allegations” against him, creating what he called an “endless barrage of hateful content.”

In the years since the trial, Heard has largely stepped away from the spotlight and relocated to Madrid, Spain. The actress is now raising her three children: daughter Oonagh and twins Agnes and Ocean, whom she welcomed in May 2025.
Earlier this year, Heard celebrated her growing family in a heartfelt Instagram post. “This year I am elated beyond words to celebrate the completion of the family I’ve strived to build for years,” she wrote. “I thought I couldn’t possibly burst with more joy. Well, now I am bursting times three!!!”
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Discover a new drama series on Netflix — or rewatch an old fave all over again.
Nicola Peltz is once again at the center of the Beckham family speculation after a heartfelt wedding tribute unexpectedly reignited questions about her fractured relationship with her in-laws.
While celebrating her brother Will Peltz’s marriage to Kenya Kinski-Jones, the actress described the bride as her “dream sister,” a phrase that caught fans’ attention because of what she once called Harper Beckham.
On Monday, Nicola Peltz took to Instagram with a series of photos from her older brother Will’s recent wedding to Kenya, but it was her caption that immediately got people talking.
While celebrating the newlyweds, the 31-year-old referred to Kenya as her “dream sister,” despite already having her husband Brooklyn Beckham’s 14-year-old sister Harper as her sister-in-law.
“This wedding was truly one of the most beautiful things i’ve ever had the privilege of witnessing. Willy, thank you for finally and officially giving me my dream sister, Ken,” Nicola wrote.
The actress continued by reflecting on the couple’s longtime romance, adding, “Watching the two of you love each other so deeply over the past 15 years has been one of the most beautiful gifts. Your love for each other has always been something so special grow up with and celebrating this moment with everyone was unforgettable.”
Nicola also expressed her excitement for the couple’s future together, writing, “I love you both more than words can say, and I truly couldn’t be happier for you both.”
The wording of Nicola Peltz’s latest tribute stood out because it echoed something she had previously said about Harper.
Just two years ago, Nicola described the teenager as “my dream little sister.” During the premiere of her directorial debut “Lola” in 2024, she spoke warmly about their relationship.
“If I could create the perfect dream little sister, it’s her. I’m so blessed I get to have her as my little sister in my life,” Nicola said at the time.
Considering the difference between her previous comments and her latest post, fans quickly flooded the comment section with their thoughts.
“Well that was petty AF. And directed at his little sister. WOW what a couple of winners,” one fan wrote. Another commented, “Another dream sister. How sweet…hopefully longer lasting than the last one, dear #shallow.”

The renewed attention arrives as reports of tension between Brooklyn and his famous family continue to circulate. Earlier this month, Harper became an unexpected focus of the ongoing family rift.
Following David Beckham’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in Los Angeles, Harper reportedly visited Brooklyn and Nicola’s Beverly Hills home to deliver a handwritten note from the family.
However, she was left disappointed after discovering that her brother was not home. Soon afterward, Brooklyn and Nicola’s camp accused the Beckhams of “using Harper as a pawn.”
They told Page Six, “[The fact] that photographers were in place as the letter was hand delivered says it all – this was choreographed for the cameras.”
Friends of David and Victoria Beckham strongly rejected what they described as the “nasty accusation leveled at an innocent young girl” by their estranged son. They also claimed Brooklyn had not accepted contact from Harper or his grandparents since the family fallout began.
Those close to the Beckham family have also spoken about the emotional impact the estrangement has had on the family’s youngest member.
Friends of the Beckhams revealed that Harper’s heartbreak over losing contact with Brooklyn should not be underestimated.
“For the first 12 years of Harper’s life, she was so very close to Brooklyn,” one family friend told the Daily Mail, adding, “He was 12 himself when she was born and was a very influential person in her life.”
The source also shared, “It doesn’t take much to understand just how devastated Harper is that her big brother is no longer around.”
Meanwhile, Brooklyn’s younger brother Cruz appeared to emphasize family unity by sharing a photo with Harper and their brother Romeo on Monday.
While attention centered on Nicola Peltz’s social media caption, the occasion itself marked a major milestone for the Peltz family.
Will and Kenya, who have been together for 16 years, recently shared details of their wedding with Vogue, revealing that family played a central role throughout the celebration.
After Will proposed in the garden of the Peltz family home in Mount Kisco, New York, the couple chose to return to the exact same location one year later to get married.
On the morning of the welcome party, the pair privately exchanged vows outside before holding a larger ceremony the following day.
Will’s billionaire father, Nelson Peltz, walked Kenya down the aisle and also served as his son’s best man.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce‘s wedding plans have generated months of excitement, with fans closely watching every rumored detail about the guest list.
One question, however, has finally been settled. Despite fueling speculation with a playful remark earlier this year, Prince William and Kate Middleton will not be attending the couple’s highly anticipated celebration, bringing one of the biggest wedding rumors to an end.

For weeks, royal watchers wondered whether the Prince and Princess of Wales would be among the celebrity guests celebrating Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding.
According to PEOPLE, that will not happen. Prince William and Kate Middleton are not expected to attend the upcoming ceremony, despite widespread speculation that suggested they could make a surprise appearance.
Much of the excitement began after Prince William appeared on “Heart Breakfast” in May. During the interview, co-host Amanda Holden asked whether he had already received an invitation to the wedding.
William smiled before replying, “No comment.” He then playfully added, “I’m hoping, and I’m sure there might be an invitation around, but we’ll see.”
His remarks immediately sparked online discussion, with many believing the royal couple might be among the wedding’s high-profile guests. That speculation has now officially come to an end.

Although William and Kate will miss the wedding, the relationship between the royal family and Taylor Swift stretches back more than a decade.
Their first memorable meeting came in 2013 during the Centrepoint Winter Whites Gala at Kensington Palace, where William joined Swift and Jon Bon Jovi on stage for an unexpected performance of “Livin’ on a Prayer.”
Years later, their friendship resurfaced during Swift’s Eras Tour stop at Wembley Stadium in June 2024.
To celebrate his 42nd birthday, William attended the concert with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
During the show, he was seen enthusiastically dancing to “Shake It Off,” while Charlotte was said to be especially excited to see the global superstar.
William also revealed during his radio interview that both Charlotte and Louis are fans of Swift, with Charlotte, in particular, being “obsessed.”
Following the Wembley concert, Swift shared a backstage selfie with Prince William, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte.
Travis Kelce also posed alongside the royal family in another photograph that quickly spread across social media.
Alongside the image, Swift wrote, “Happy Bday M8! London shows are off to a splendid start,” tagging Prince William and Princess Kate’s official account while adding Union Jack, American flag, and handshake emojis.
The warm exchange only strengthened public belief that the Prince and Princess of Wales might receive an invitation to one of the year’s biggest celebrity weddings.
While that prediction has not come true, the friendly relationship between the two sides appears unchanged.

Although Prince William and Kate Middleton will not be present, preparations for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding continue to generate plenty of attention.
According to Page Six, workers briefly rolled out a red carpet outside Madison Square Garden on Tuesday before quickly removing it moments later.
An employee reportedly confirmed that the decorations were intended for a “wedding,” but another individual explained that the carpet had been installed ahead of schedule and was promptly removed.
The brief appearance of the red carpet sparked even more curiosity as anticipation builds for what is expected to be one of the year’s biggest celebrity events.
Reports indicate Swift and Kelce are set to exchange vows at Madison Square Garden on Friday after hosting a more intimate rehearsal dinner the previous evening.

While the royal couple won’t be joining the festivities, plenty of familiar faces are still expected to attend.
According to Page Six, the rehearsal dinner will host around 100 guests, offering a smaller gathering before the much larger wedding celebration.
Among the confirmed attendees are Zoë Kravitz, Karlie Kloss, Suki Waterhouse, NFL star Kyle Juszczyk, and several of the couple’s close friends.
The guest list reflects the worlds Swift and Kelce have brought together throughout their relationship, blending music, sports, fashion, and Hollywood into one of the most talked-about celebrations of the year.
Weekend Open Thread: Staud – Corporette.com
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