By Robert Scucci
| Published 14 seconds ago

The late 90s and early aughts were rife with raunchy comedies, some of which fared better than others. 1998’s There’s Something About Mary was an instant classic that cleaned house at the box office, and 2005’s The 40-Year-Old Virgin marked a return to form for the genre. Those years in between, however, produced some rough entries that are all but forgotten today because they placed too much emphasis on tasteless gags over meaningful storytelling. 2001’s Tomcats is one such film, and it’s honestly a rough watch, but not for the reasons you’d think.

The film’s overall setup, conflict, and story beats are all solid, believe it or not, but they’re simply used as a springboard for as many raunchy gags as humanly possible. If you’re into that kind of thing, you’ll probably have a good time with Tomcats, but I have no qualms saying its 13 percent critical score on Rotten Tomatoes comes from the fact that most of these gags don’t add anything to the movie. Instead, they pad the runtime with cheap laughs rather than character development.

A Great Wager And Setup

Tomcats starts at a wedding, where a group of bachelors make a wager. They all throw money into a high-yield account, and the last single man standing gets to claim the pot. As time passes and interest accrues, we’re left with two bachelors, Michael Delaney (Jerry O’Connell) and Kyle Brenner (Jake Busey), and roughly $500,000 up for grabs.

After a falling out with his girlfriend, Shelby (Julia Schultz), Michael racks up a substantial gambling debt with a casino pit boss named Carlos (Bill Maher), who says in no uncertain terms that if the money isn’t paid back within 30 days, he’ll be killed. Knowing the only way he can make good on what he owes, Michael hatches a plan to trick Kyle into getting married.

Michael learns there’s only one woman Kyle would ever consider settling down with: Natalie (Shannon Elizabeth), a woman he had a one-night stand with at a wedding years earlier, ditched on the side of the road with a roll of quarters, and thinks of as the one that got away. As it turns out, Natalie works as an undercover officer, knows how to profile people, and agrees to sabotage Kyle’s bachelor lifestyle in exchange for half the winnings. At this point, we only vaguely know about Natalie’s history with Kyle, and the fun comes from wondering whether she’s simply in it for the money or if that’s just an added bonus to a revenge plot she has against him.

From this point forward, it’s basically a sizzle reel of sex gags, gamer words, and even an entire sequence involving a lost testicle at the hospital that adds about 10 minutes but no substance to the story. It will, however, probably make you want to throw up in your mouth. You’ll know it when you see it.

Too Much Funny Equals Not Funny

Odds are, if you’re firing up Tomcats, it’s because you’re looking for some offensive humor to gawk at, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem is that movies like this focus more on the gags than the storytelling, which is a shame. This is exactly the kind of humor I’m tuning in for, but it needs to be anchored in somewhat believable scenarios and carried by people who are at least a little likable.

That’s why There’s Something About Mary and Knocked Up work while this film fails to stick the landing. Michael isn’t necessarily an unlikable protagonist, but he doesn’t have much of a personality either. He’s just a conduit for jokes. Kyle, who’s supposed to be his foil, is the most reprehensible womanizer to ever grace the silver screen, and his exploits are fun to watch, especially when they backfire. But again, he’s just another conduit for jokes that could just as easily be swapped with any other male character in the movie.

It’s almost as if every guy in this movie is based on the same archetype. One’s a little smarter, one’s a little more sensitive, and so on. They’re all variations of the same guy, so whenever a joke needs to be jammed into a scene, anybody can reliably deliver it. As much as this sounds like a good idea, it doesn’t work in a comedy where you’re dealing with some pretty awful people from start to finish.

The romance between Michael and Natalie develops into a satisfying arc, but by the time we get there, it’s one lost testicle, Jake Busey in a thong, and a grandma dominatrix scene too late. There’s simply too much schtick without ever giving you room to breathe.

Is Tomcats a misunderstood classic? Far from it. Is it 13 percent bad? I’m inclined to say no, but I wouldn’t put it above 30 percent either. It’s one of those films that relies on you trusting your own taste and whether you enjoy the talent involved. There are some clever one-liners and sight gags worth checking out, but the whole is far less than the sum of its parts.

As of this writing, Tomcats is streaming free on Tubi.

Watching reruns after reruns of a show can be so fulfilling. The comfort of knowing how it ends, but still enjoying it, feels like heaven. But what if there was another way to immerse oneself in the beautiful memory without having to start a rerun? Here’s the secret: video games. There’s so much more to explore in the world, and if you’re a gamer, you will know how a game helps you admire it and refresh after a hard day, all at the same time.

But where’s the connection, you ask? Over the years, some incredible TV shows have been made into user-friendly video games that let you improve your skills and reminisce about old shows simultaneously. And if your favorite show is one of those, make it a point to play the game now!

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‘Beavis & Butt-Head’ (1994)

Beavis and Butt-Head, the sneering idlers from MTV’s hit animated comedy series, got their own game on the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo in 1994. In the game, Beavis and Butt-Head have obtained tickets to a Gwar concert, but as luck would have it, they’re now in shreds.

Players can alternate playing as Beavis or Butt-Head as they search high and low for the pieces of the ticket. While the game is relatively simple, the animation, voice acting, and music make it remarkable, which will make you feel like you are a character in the 2-D world.

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‘Duck Tales: Remastered’ (2013)

A classic action game from Capcom, DuckTales: Remastered allows users to take control of Scrooge McDuck as he tours the world and beyond, looking for more rare treasures to add to his collection. The game is relatively simple and boasts of being a platformer-style game. The game sold over a million copies worldwide, a considerable number by 1990 standards.

While initially released for PlayStation 3, the iOS version of DuckTales garnered better reviews. The game isn’t highly competitive but is definitely fun, interactive, and nostalgic.

8

‘The Adventures of Batman & Robin’ (1994)

What comes to mind when you think of the ’90s? Chicago Bulls a contending team? Nostalgic ’90s cartoons? MTV’s fantastic music? Even better: Konami producing awesome action games? It was then that The Adventures of Batman & Robin was released, following the hit Batman: The Animated Series.

The game offered incredible graphics and sound and features some incredibly challenging puzzles that players must solve over the course of the game. Directly influenced by the TV show, the game has the same cartoony and comic-book feel. But, of course, this was long before Christopher Nolan steered the franchise towards a darker version.

7

‘Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3’ (2004)

The Dragon Ball game series launched its first installment in 2002 and lasted until its last release in 2012. The third installment in the series, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3, was released in 2004 and was the most talked-about. The game had better reviews than its predecessors, with improved graphics and sound, and the gameplay was far ahead of the previous games.

Players can play in story mode, versus mode, a tournament, and a battle ranking stage where they compete against AI in a hundred-fighter challenge. Its massive roster of playable fighters and faithful recreation of iconic battles make it one of the greatest Dragon Ball games ever released.

6

‘Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force’ (2000)

The Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force is loved far and wide by audiences, but only for its PC version, which came out in 2000. The PlayStation version, however, is way less interactive and way more troublesome. Nevertheless, the game invoked sighs of relief from fans as they rejoiced and finally welcomed a good Star Trek game.

The game incorporates an array of characters and visually pleasing settings from the beloved sci-fi TV show. The game also includes a multiplayer mode that makes it more appealing and adds to its longevity. By combining satisfying first-person shooter mechanics with an original story that feels like an episode of the series, Elite Force remains a favorite among fans.

5

‘South Park: The Stick of Truth’ (2014)

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In fierce competition with its successor, The Fractured but Whole, South Park: The Stick of Truth is one of the most faithful video game adaptations of all time. While otherwise at par with its sequel, the game features a more exciting and dynamic combat system. This role-playing adventure game came out in 2014 and was rated approvingly for its PC and PlayStation 3 versions.

The South Park game is based on an open-world model and includes countless inside jokes and references to the first 17 seasons for fans to reminisce. For longtime fans, it’s packed with enough references and characters to make every moment feel like an interactive episode of the series.

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‘South Park: The Fractured but Whole’ (2017)

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While The Stick of Truth is often considered the definitive South Park game, The Fractured but Whole is every bit as worthy of that reputation. Instead of parodying fantasy role-playing games, the sequel shifts its focus to the ever-growing popularity of superhero franchises, with Cartman rebranding himself as “The Coon” and recruiting the rest of the boys into an increasingly ridiculous battle over who deserves to headline their own cinematic universe.

Created with direct involvement from Trey Parker and Matt Stone, The Fractured but Whole feels like a playable season of South Park. Its turn-based combat is deeper and more strategic than its predecessor’s, while the dialogue, animation, and countless references perfectly recreate the experience of watching the long-running animated series.

3

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991)

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Even several decades after its release, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time is yet to be defeated when it comes to the ultimate TMNT game. The game is a sequel to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and while it takes some characteristics from the original, it ups the ante with the use of colorful graphics and varied level settings.

The Konami classic captures the essence of the ’80s cartoon show with utmost perfection and adorns an eclectic palette of extraordinary situations with incredible historical themes.

2

‘The Simpsons: Hit & Run’ (2003)

Image via Radical Entertainment

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Since its release, numerous versions of The Simpsons video games have been made, but The Simpsons: Hit & Run is the only one you need to own. The game came out in 2003 for the GameCube, PlayStation 2, Windows, and Xbox. What separates this version from the others is its existence as a witty parody of the Grand Theft Auto series, only less brutal and much funnier.

In this well-received and competently executed game, users control Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Apu as they investigate odd occurrences in Springfield. Nearly two decades later, Hit & Run remains the gold standard for The Simpsons games and one of the greatest licensed games ever made.

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‘The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series’ (2012)

Image via Telltale Games

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There is no better way to execute episodic games than Telltale Games, and it’s no surprise that the attempt to create the exhilarating The Walking Dead game was a whopping success. Technically, the game is based more on the comic than the show, where every action you perform has a different consequence and can change the story’s route.

The game focuses on character and story development and often feels like you’re playing an interactive rendition of the sensational show. Critically acclaimed, The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series is as accurate a zombie apocalypse simulation as it gets.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Updated 7 hours ago

Part of what makes X-Men ‘97 so fun is that it mixes and matches some of the greatest X-Men comics of yesteryear. In Season 1, for example, we got a mix of classic storylines like “The Trial of Magneto,” “Fatal Attractions,” the attack on Genosha, and more. Season 2 just dropped, and we’re already getting fun remixes of stories like The Adventures of Cyclops and Phoenix and The Rise of Apocalypse. For the most part, all of these comic stories have something in common: they are more or less beloved by the fandom.

Now, however, the most recent episode of X-Men ‘97 seems to be setting up an adaptation of a very controversial comic book storyline. There are spoilers here, so if you haven’t already watched “The Rise of Apocalypse, Part II,” this is your last chance to do so without knowing what happens! With that said, here we go: while the exact setup differs from the comics, the most recent episode’s shocking death of Magneto is seemingly setting up the arrival of Onslaught. Who or what is Onslaught, you ask? In short, it’s a supervillain that possesses Xavier, and he was the catalyst for one of the dumbest X-Men stories ever created!

Birth Of A New Supervillain

In X-Men ‘97 Season 1, we see Magneto’s full fury unleashed. He strips the adamantium off Wolverine’s bones and tries to launch an apocalyptic electromagnetic pulse at the planet, intent on wiping out humanity. To stop this, Professor Xavier had to go into his old friend’s mind and control his magnetic powers to reverse the damage. In the comics, things went down slightly differently: Magneto successfully unleashed an EMP, albeit a smaller one. After he ripped the adamantium out of Wolverine, Xavier didn’t take control of Magneto’s powers; instead, he simply shut down the supervillain’s mind, leaving him in a coma. 

Three years later, the comics revealed something startling. When Xavier shut down Magneto’s mind, he absorbed some of its evil, and this got mixed up with much of the professor’s own repressed dark side. This created a malevolent psionic entity named Onslaught that initially hid inside Xavier’s brain. Eventually, it got out and wreaked so much havoc that the greatest heroes in the world had to team up to stop it. While some of this might sound cool on paper, it led to some of the worst Marvel comics of the ‘90s. Now, unfortunately, it looks like X-Men ‘97 is about to bring this controversial villain into the show. 

You Wouldn’t Like Him When He’s Angry

The primary ingredients for Onslaught were revealed in X-Men ‘97 Season 1. Xavier had to make extensive contact with Magneto’s mind to stop the EMP,  giving him plenty of time to absorb much of his friend’s negative energy. Now, Season 2 has added a potential catalyst: the death of Magneto. When Apocalypse kills the Master of Magnetism (but not before Xavier makes mental contact with his friend, one last time), we see how Xavier is racked with grief and rage. In the comics, the Onslaught identity emerged due to Xavier’s anger at humanity’s treatment of mutants. Now, his best friend getting brutally murdered right in front of him in X-Men ‘97 has created a more compelling reason for the professor to let his crazy out.

Now, why did fans hate the Onslaught story in the comics so much? For one thing, it was weird seeing Xavier basically become a supervillain, especially for a reason as silly as “touched minds with a supervillain,” something he had done countless times before. Also, the writers just kept adding new powers until Onslaught was basically an evil god. The whole thing became a clusterf*ck of a crossover in which a bunch of heroes had to sacrifice themselves, all so Marvel could create Heroes Reborn … a kindasorta reboot so crappy that all anyone remembers from it is Rob Liefield unleashing the single worst drawing of Captain America the world has ever seen.

Fans had plenty of other issues with Onslaught and his big crossover story, including the fact that it was used to resolve a major mystery from the ‘80s comics (who betrays the X-Men in the future?) in the worst possible way. Now, it seems this villain is destined to pop up in X-Men ‘97, possibly as the only force that can defeat Apocalypse. If that happens, though, it would likely be setting Onslaught up as the Big Bad of Season 3. I’ll do my best to keep that from happening, though. Does anybody have Bishop’s number? Because changing the future has never been more important!

Few things beat curling up with a good mystery book. At its core, the genre’s appeal lies in the satisfaction of solving a puzzle. Whether following a brilliant detective, an ordinary amateur sleuth, or even a criminal attempting to cover their tracks, readers become active participants in the story, weighing clues and trying to figure things out.

The very best mysteries reward careful observation while remaining surprising enough to leave even seasoned readers stunned when the truth finally emerges. These books are the focus of this list. They run the gamut from the classic structure of Agatha Christie to the genre hybrids of Umberto Eco and the stranger-than-fiction true-crime of Patrick Radden Keefe.

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‘The Name of the Rose’ (1980)

“The only truth lies in learning to free ourselves from insane passion for the truth.” Set in a remote Italian monastery during the 14th century, The Name of the Rose follows the brilliant Franciscan friar William of Baskerville and his novice Adso as they investigate a string of mysterious deaths among the monastery’s monks. Every clue points toward an increasingly elaborate conspiracy hidden within one of Europe’s greatest libraries.

This book is a real gem, combining juicy murder mystery elements with genuine philosophy, theology, and well-researched medieval history. William, in particular, is a fascinating variation on the classic detective archetype. His powers of observation and logical deduction evoke Sherlock Holmes (the fact that he’s from Baskerville itself is a sly wink in this direction), yet Umberto Eco places him within an intellectually rich world dominated by religious conflict, political intrigue, and debates about knowledge itself.

9

‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ (2005)

“Everyone has secrets. It’s just a matter of finding out what they are.” The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo caused a global sensation in the mid-2000s, and for good reason. Stieg Larsson revitalized a lot of classic mystery tropes by combining them with investigative journalism, family drama, and unusually compelling characters. The story centers on journalist Mikael Blomkvist, who is hired to investigate the decades-old disappearance of a young woman who vanished from an isolated island owned by one of Sweden’s wealthiest families.

His search eventually brings him into partnership with the brilliant but enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander, one of the most intriguing fictional creations of that era. Her extraordinary intelligence, troubled past, and uncompromising determination quickly made her a fan favorite. Finally, the mystery itself is well-constructed. Although the plotting is dense, it never feels convoluted, contrived, or over-the-top.

8

‘London Falling’ (2026)

“Every city hides the stories it hopes no one will uncover.” London Falling is a work of nonfiction by Say Nothing‘s Patrick Radden Keefe, yet it’s stranger and more compelling than most fictional mysteries. It delves into the bizarre 2019 death of 19-year-old Zac Brettler and, in telling his story, exposes the dark, billionaire-fueled criminal underworld of modern London. The book involves gangsters, cons, secret identities, and repeated failures by the government and police.

While it’s certainly suspenseful, London Falling is also moving, especially when the author interviews Zac’s grieving, confused parents. It touches on important issues in British society today, too, in a way that feels urgent and topical. All in all, it’s a masterpiece of true-crime writing and a genuine page-turner. Not for nothing, the adaptation rights have already been sold, and A24 is reportedly planning on making it into a TV series.

7

‘The Spy Who Came In from the Cold’ (1963)

Image via Penguin

“The successful spy is the one nobody suspects.” The Spy Who Came In from the Cold is the defining book by espionage master John le Carré. In it, British operative Alec Leamas is preparing to retire after one final failed mission when he is assigned an elaborate undercover operation designed to infiltrate East German intelligence. But as the mission unfolds, Leamas gradually realizes that he may be little more than a pawn in a much larger game.

Like Leamas, readers spend much of the narrative trying to determine which characters can be trusted, what the true objectives of the operation actually are, and who is manipulating whom. Every conversation contains hidden meanings. At the same time, the book was hugely influential in the way it portrayed secret agents not as superheroes, but as morally compromised bureaucrats trapped inside a world of deception.

6

‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ (1955)

“I always thought it would be better to be a fake somebody than a real nobody.” The Talented Mr. Ripley cleverly inverts the traditional mystery template by placing readers inside the mind of the criminal rather than the detective. Tom Ripley is sent to Italy to persuade wealthy playboy Dickie Greenleaf to return home, but admiration gradually gives way to envy, obsession, and ultimately murder. After assuming Dickie’s identity, Tom must continually outwit investigators, acquaintances, and even his own growing paranoia.

On top of being tense and tightly-wound, the book is a marvel of characterization. Ripley is a fascinating antihero: charming, intelligent, adaptable, and morally vacant, weaving a sprawling web of lies that fools those around him while threatening to ensnare him as well. Despite his increasingly horrifying actions, Tom remains strangely sympathetic because readers experience every close call and desperate improvisation from his perspective.

5

‘The Maltese Falcon’ (1930)

“When you’re slapped, you’ll take it and like it.” The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett laid the foundation for the hard-boiled detective novel. After his partner is murdered while shadowing a mysterious woman, private investigator Sam Spade finds himself drawn into a dangerous search for an immensely valuable jeweled statuette. Shifting alliances and constant betrayals keep the reader guessing and turning the pages.

The book stood out from most mysteries of its time thanks to its dialogue and its protagonist. Sharp, economical, and filled with subtle power plays, every conversation advances both the investigation and the psychological battle between the characters. Likewise, unlike the gentleman detectives who dominated earlier mystery fiction, Spade is a scrappy figure operating in a morally ambiguous world where nearly everyone is compromised, including himself. This approach would go on to be hugely influential.

4

‘The Long Goodbye’ (1953)

“I never saw any of them again except the cops. No way has yet been invented to say goodbye to them.” The Long Goodbye is regarded by many to be the best Philip Marlowe book. The story begins when Marlowe befriends the troubled war veteran Terry Lennox, only to become entangled in a murder investigation after helping Lennox flee the country. Marlowe digs deeper into the case, uncovering layers of corruption, wealth, alcoholism, and betrayal stretching across Los Angeles society.

Part of what makes the novel great is the way it delves into character and theme. In particular, Chandler uses the investigation to examine friendship, loyalty, and the isolation of a man who consistently tries to do the right thing in a deeply cynical world. The author wrote this book while his wife was dying from a long illness, which is why it has such a melancholy mood.

3

‘The Big Sleep’ (1939)

“I was neat, clean, shaved and sober, and I didn’t care who knew it.” Chandler strikes again. The Big Sleep was the book that introduced readers to Philip Marlowe and forever changed detective fiction. Hired by the wealthy General Sternwood to deal with a blackmailer targeting one of his daughters, Marlowe quickly discovers that the case is connected to gambling rackets, pornography, multiple murders, and a seemingly endless series of double crosses.

The plotting is incredibly intricate, to the point that Chandler himself reportedly admitted that he did not know the solution to one of the murders. Nevertheless, The Big Sleep is beloved by mystery fans the world over thanks to its atmosphere, razor-sharp dialogue, and richly drawn cast of characters. Marlowe himself anchors the chaos through his intelligence, resilience, and dry humor. Many detective heroes since have borrowed from his design.

2

‘The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ (1892)

“You know my methods.” The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes remains a classic because it almost single-handedly established the template for detective fiction. This short story collection includes twelve adventures featuring Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson, involving everything from mysterious disappearances to stolen jewels and secret societies. Much of the fun comes from Holmes’ extraordinary powers of observation and deduction.

In this regard, Sherlock Holmes really is the most iconic fictional detective of all time. He’s appeared in more than 200 films, for instance, and has been played by more than 70 actors. Plus, the character of Watson was also influential, because he serves as the surrogate for the reader. He’s intelligent enough to appreciate Holmes’ brilliance but ordinary enough that readers share his amazement. In short, this book’s influence on mystery fiction is impossible to overstate.

1

‘And Then There Were None’ (1939)

Image via HarperLuxe

“Ten strangers are invited. One by one they die.” Agatha Christie is often ranked as the greatest mystery writer of all time, and And Then There Were None is perhaps her finest book. In it, ten strangers are invited to an isolated island under various pretenses, only to discover that their mysterious host has accused each of them of getting away with murder. When the guests begin dying one by one according to the verses of a nursery rhyme, panic and suspicion quickly consume the group.

This premise was ingenious for its time, creating the ultimate closed-circle mystery. With no possibility of escape and no outside detective arriving to solve the crime, every surviving guest is both a suspect and a potential victim. This structure has practically spawned a mystery subgenre unto itself. Finally, Christie caps the book off in a brilliant twist, one that’s shocking and yet makes total sense in hindsight.

Kate Middleton usually wears either sneakers or stilettos, especially during royal engagements, but her latest footwear style combines the comfort of flat shoes with the polish of heels. Her chocie presumably cost thousands, but we found the comfy-chic look for only $61 on Amazon!

To celebrate Armed Forces Day, the Princess of Wales brought Prince George to explore jets and soak in some military history. She leaned into a quiet luxury aesthetic, wearing a tweed blazer set with pointed-toe suede loafers. The set was chic, but her shoe style took the look from ‘royal duty’ to ‘royal moment.’

Get the Laggnicty Low-Block Penny Loafers for $61 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

The Laggnicty Low-Block Penny Loafers channel that same refined yet walkable energy. The pointed-toe shape gives them a sharp, intentional silhouette, and like Middleton’s, the low block heel carries as much authority as a stiletto, minus the ankle regret. It also lengthens your leg line.

Related: Martha Stewart‘s Slip-on Garden Shoes Are an Unexpectedly Chic Staple

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‘Garden shoes’ don’t sound inherently stylish, but leave it to Martha Stewart to find an option so fashionable, it works for everything from planter rows to the Riviera. We found the chic slip-in look from Stewart’s staple brand, Skechers — and it’s only $40! Taking to Instagram, Stewart shared a clip of herself in her […]

Equally swoon-worthy are the embellishments. These sleek loafers feature a tassel-style detail across the vamp that adds character and class, plus the shiny silver hardware catches the light beautifully. Whether you’re crossing your legs at brunch or stepping out of the car, you can expect compliments.

These expensive-looking loafers pair well with straight-leg trousers, midi dresses, cropped denim and tailored blazer sets, so be prepared to wear them nonstop. Whatever’s on your calendar, from garden parties to in-office days, these loafers slot in perfectly.

The catch? They dropped only a few months ago and are bound to go fast. Middleton’s off-duty looks usually sell out within hours of a public appearance, so run to snag this royal-approved style!

Get the Laggnicty Low-Block Penny Loafers for $61 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more chic loafers, 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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Related: Even Jennifer Aniston Wears These Chic and Comfy Flip-Flops on Amazon

The words ‘elegant’ and ‘comfortable’ are rarely used to describe flip-flops, but Jennifer Aniston uncovered rare sandals that deliver on all of the above. Turns out, her sleek, cushiony flip-flops are a bestseller on Amazon and are also loved by Jennifer Garner, Blake Lively and Jennifer Lopez! Like other celebs, Aniston has rocked Tkees flip-flops for […]

News of Margaret Qualley and Jack Antonoff‘s split has taken many by surprise, three years after the duo tied the knot.

The record producer raised eyebrows when he attended his close pal and music collaborator Taylor Swift‘s MSG wedding without his wife, prompting fans to question if there was trouble in paradise.

Well, a new report claims Jack Antonoff and Margaret Qualley’s relationship has been strained for months now, with an insider at Swift’s wedding revealing that they got into a fight days before the NYC event.

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Jack Antonoff made an eyebrow-raising appearance at longtime friend Taylor Swift’s wedding, drawing attention not for his choice of attire but because he attended without his wife, Margaret Qualley.

At the time, fans shared varying theories on why Qualley skipped the pop star’s MSG nuptials. Some argued she may have been busy working on a film project, while others claimed her absence may have been due to health reasons, or a feud between the pop star and the actress.

However, Daily Mail sources have now shared that things have been complicated for Antonoff and his wife for a while now, with a guest at Swift’s marriage ceremony sharing that the record producer “didn’t look happy during most of the wedding, unless he was with Taylor.”

Though Antonoff reportedly confided in guests that he and Qualley “had a tiff” before the wedding, he didn’t ditch his ring. He was also spotted wearing the band as late as Wednesday, immediately preceding People magazine‘s announcement of their separation.

The Estranged Hollywood Couple ‘Lost Their Spark’

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Regarding the duo’s marital strains, a second source revealed that cracks have been forming in Antonoff and Qualley’s marriage for a while now.

They noted that the couple has been focused on doing their own thing for months now, drifting apart in their relationship.

“Jack didn’t want to put up a facade at Taylor’s wedding when they’re having trouble,” the insider noted. “It’s been weird with her [Qualley] working and him doing his own thing the last several months.”

“They definitely have lost the spark they once had, and it doesn’t look like they’ll fix it,” the source added. “Which is crazy, because they were bonkers for each other at one point and people thought they had something unique.”

Margaret Qualley Felt Jack Antonoff Put His Music Career Over Their Relationship, Pushing Her To A ‘Breaking Point’

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Insiders point to the couple’s demanding work schedules as the root cause of the split, noting that their high-profile careers ultimately caused them to start leading separate lives.

The Bleachers frontman has spent a significant portion of the year traveling on tour, while Qualley has remained deeply immersed in her own acting projects.

She is currently focused on filming “Possession,” an upcoming remake of the 1981 cult horror classic co-starring Callum Turner, which is slated to hit theaters next year.

“Margaret feels he has a tendency to prioritize his music career over their relationship,” the source shared. “The disconnect between them has created significant tension, and despite the growing strain, Jack hasn’t shown much interest in repairing what’s been broken. The two are no longer on the same page.”

They added that Qualley especially had reached “her breaking point” with the whole relationship.

The Actress Recently Spoke About Having Kids With Jack Antonoff

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As recently as February this year, Qualley had spoken positively about her relationship with Antonoff, sharing in a Vanity Fair interview that she, “for sure,” saw kids in their future.

However, she also seemed reluctant to give too much away about their plans, telling the interviewer that if she had chosen any baby names, she wouldn’t talk about it.

In a 2023 Harper’s Bazaar interview held shortly before their wedding, the actress seemed more excited about her romance with Antonoff, telling the publication that she was so happy to have found her “person,” and that their love is “real.”

“I am so happy that I found my person. And it’s real. It’s amazing. It’s the best feeling in the world,” Qualley stated at the time, adding, “I’m so excited and so at ease all at once.”

Margaret Qualley Admitted She Wanted To ‘Do Everything’ With Jack Antonoff

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Before their marriage hit the rocks, Qualley had nothing but great things to say about her relationship with Antonoff, revealing that because of the singer, she felt excited about making a home.

In the Harper’s Bazaar interview, she talked about how much he affected her life, admitting that before meeting Antonoff, she lived in “sh-tty” apartments with barely any furniture.

“Until about a month before I met Jack, I never had any furniture. I would always have these sh-tty little apartments and move around from one place to another with a mattress on the floor and an Ikea lamp,” Qualley said.

She continued, “I never made a home at all. I didn’t care; I cared about movies. I would use my sister’s basement in L.A. as a spot to keep my things. But I didn’t invest in that part of my life. It’s really exciting now to be making a home and to have something to care for.”

The actress stressed at the time that she “just want[ed] to do everything with Jack” including having children.

But now, things seem very rough between the couple, with sources telling People that Antonoff and Qualley are “figuring things out” in their “rocky” relationship.

The following article contains spoilers.As the highly anticipated spin-off series to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon took the world by storm by propelling its audience back to the wild world of Westeros. Filled with fantasy back-stabbing, royal chess moves, and an army of dragons, this show shines with its streamlined narrative focus on the complex Targaryen dynasty. Now three seasons in, the Dance of the Dragons is in full swing, with the conflict growing bloodier and more devastating with each passing episode.

As the story continues to unfold, let us not forget the iconic moments of the past. From King Viserys’ (Paddy Considine) mighty entrance to the throne room, to Rhaenyra’s (Emma D’Arcy) and Alicent’s (Olivia Cooke) confrontation, these events have stayed in the minds of fans since the show’s initial airing. And yet, where those scenes are poignant and impactful, this list will track the show’s WTF moments. The wild moments that took us off guard and possibly made us wonder what exactly we were watching. And let’s be honest, in this world, there are a lot of moments that qualify.

15

Faking Laenor’s death

Season 1, Episode 7 (2022)

Image via HBO

From the very beginning, it was clear that Rhaenyra and Laenor’s (John MacMillan) union was to be one of convenience. Politically advantageous for both their houses, the two came to an agreement to do their duty as heirs, whilst finding their own outlets for happiness. Unfortunately, this never fully came to fruition as they never conceived their own biological children. And though cordial and close in their own platonic ways, the two even struggled to attain true happiness. At least, until they didn’t.

Wanting to secure a formidable partner to face the wrath of the Greens, it appeared that Rhaenyra and Daemon orchestrated the murder of Laenor to expedite their marriage. However, all was not as it seemed, as it was quickly revealed to be a ruse. The true victim was a poor servant whose body was made to resemble Laenor’s, allowing him to make his escape and sail off to freedom with his lover, Ser Qarl (Arty Froushan). A twist in the story that even shocked Fire and Blood book readers.

14

Criston Cole attacks Joffery

Season 1, Episode 5 (2022)

Image via HBO

While Rhaenyra and Laenor were happy with their marital arrangement, not all parties were pleased. Indeed, Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) made it clear that he did not like the thought of being the princess’ “whore,” a statement made all the more ironic by his later actions.

In the final episode, before the show’s 10-year time jump, Cole is left bitter and angry, resenting himself for breaking his Knight’s oath of chastity. And unfortunately for Joffrey, Laenor’s lover, confronting Cole about his relationship with the Princess came at just the wrong time: on the night of Rhaenyra and Laenor’s betrothal celebration. Indeed, perceiving it as a threat of blackmail, Cole snaps and beats Joffrey (Solly McLeod) to a pulp, right in front of all to see, killing him instantly. Talk about a party killer. Honestly, what makes this even wilder is how Cole never received any lasting consequences (nor for anything else, for that matter).

13

Rhaenys dies at Rook’s Rest

Season 2, Episode 4 (2024)

Image via HBO

When Criston Cole’s army lays siege to Rook’s Rest, Princess Rhaenys (Eve Best) answers the call by riding her veteran dragon into battle. Initially gaining the upper hand against Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) and his dragon, Rhaenys proves exactly why she’s regarded as one of the most experienced dragon riders in Westeros. Sadly, the battle changes dramatically when Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) arrives aboard the colossal Vhagar (among the largest dragons in the Game of Thrones franchise).

The Battle of Rook’s Rest is one of the defining moments of the Dance of the Dragons because it demonstrates just how catastrophic dragon warfare truly is. And for Rhaenys, rather than fleeing when an opportunity arose, she instead chose to turn back and fight for her Queen, fully aware of the odds stacked against her. Her final stand is equal parts heroic and heartbreaking, even as Vhagar delivers the fatal blow. It’s an unforgettable sequence and one that leaves a large impact on Team Black and the audience itself.

12

Aemond loses his eye

Season 1, Episode 7 (2022)

Image via HBO

Where the first half of the series saw the beginnings of the division between the Greens and the Blacks, audiences were introduced to how it eventually manifested within the children. Conditioned to be at odds with one another, the tension reached an all-time high following Laena Velaryon’s (Nanna Blondell) funeral.

Seizing the opportunity before him, Aemond (Leo Ashton) sneaks off to boldly claim the newly riderless Vhagar as his own. Though successful in his efforts, he is quickly met with adversity as Laena’s daughters, Baela (Shani Smethurst) and Rhaena (Eva Ossei-Gerning), perceive it as dragon theft. A fight ensues between Aemond and the girls, with Jacaerys (Leo Hart) and Lucaerys (Harvey Sadler) offering support to their cousins. But things take a fiercely violent turn as their squabble ends with Aemond’s eye getting sliced out by the hands of young Lucaerys. Yikes.

11

Daemon and Rhaenyra’s sexual escapade

Season 1, Episode 4 (2022)

Image via HBO

Incest is not new to the Game of Thrones universe, especially when it comes to the Targaryens. Indeed, from the very first time we saw Rhaenyra (Millie Alcock) and Daemon (Matt Smith) clap eyes on one another, it was evident that they shared the same sort of fire. But all this doesn’t negate how wild it was to witness them break past the familial barriers and dabble in a more sexual relationship.

Upon his return from the Stepstones, Daemon helps Rhaenyra sneak out of the Red Keep to show her the streets of King’s Landing and the seedy things they have to offer. Ending their journey in the confinement of a brothel, the two begin to test the boundaries of their relationship in just the ways you think they would. As uncle and niece, this was a bizarre thing to watch, especially since Rhaenyra was a teenager. But what felt even more strange was how we, as the audience, were practically rooting for them.

10

Laena’s death

Season 1, Episode 6 (2022)

Image via HBO

Following the 10-year time jump, audiences are introduced to a grown-up Laena, married to Daemon with two children and one on the way. Incest aside, the two appeared to share a marriage built on the foundations of genuine affection. That’s why it was so heartbreaking to see Laena go through a difficult birth.

Indeed, House of the Dragon was not afraid to explore the many traumas of childbirth, as almost every one ended in tragedy. And Laena’s was no different. However, what set her apart was how her tragic end at least happened on her own terms. Knowing that other men were going to make decisions about her own body and potentially cut her open, Laena crawled her way to Vhagar and opted to die by dragonfire. This was the scene where audiences saw the true bond between a dragon and its rider. It was harrowing and shocking, but powerful nonetheless.

9

Fake Daeron Targaryen

Season 3, Episode 3 (2026)

Image via HBO

After Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) finally captures King’s Landing, Daemon is sent to confront Ormund Hightower (James Norton) to offer surprisingly generous surrender terms: disband the Hightower attack, return to Oldtown, and hand over Prince Daeron—Alicent and Viserys’ youngest son. At first, the mysterious Lord appears to comply, producing a silver-haired boy into Daemon’s custody. But that all changes when Rhaenyra allows Alicent to meet her son, as it’s immediately clear that she does not recognize the boy at all.

Instead, it’s quickly revealed that he is an innocent child whose hair has been dyed and who was threatened to play the part while the real prince remains safely hidden with the Hightowers. The introduction of Daeron’s impostor is a bizarre act of deception because it fools almost everyone, including the audience. But it also raises the question of why. One could argue that it sets up Ormund as a cunning strategist. But for the most part, it simply stands out because it’s so audaciously simple (and funny).

8

Larys Strong

Season 1, Episodes 6 & 9 (2022)

Image via HBO

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Apologies, but this man deserves an entire entry of his own purely for the shocking things he did in only a short amount of time. Indeed, Larys Strong (Matthew Needham) has proven himself to be the grimiest and creepiest character on the show. Cunning, manipulative, and all-around gross, fans now brace themselves whenever he is seen on-screen.

Making a name for himself as Queen Alicent’s number-one obsessor, his desperation to prove his loyalty went so far as to arrange a fire to brutally kill his own father and brother. Cut to a few episodes later, we see that Larys remains in Alicent’s inner circle, but at a price. In order to secure his spies’ intel, she must satisfy his foot fetish. Yes, that’s right, folks, we get a scene of a grimy man getting sexually aroused at seeing a woman’s toes. No kink shaming, as we were just disgusted at the exploitation.

7

Daemon beheads Vaemond Velaryon

Season 1, Episode 8 (2022)

Image via HBO

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As one of the most complex characters of the show, one can never really predict the actions and motivations of Daemon Targaryen. Long perceived as the Iron Throne’s heir-presumptive, the man is ambitious, reckless, and, more often than not, ruthless. But, despite his moral grayness, there’s no denying how fiercely protective he is of his family and loved ones, albeit in his own special way.

Such traits are clearly evident in the trial of Driftmark’s succession. Upon his determination to contest young Lucerys as the heir, Vaemond Velaryon (Wil Johnson) bursts into a fury, declaring Princess Rhaenyra (D’Arcy) as a you-know-what and her sons as “bastards.” But alas, in true Daemon fashion, he quickly silences the room by slicing Vaemond’s head in half. Honestly, we can’t say we’re that surprised. It is Daemon, after all. Perhaps it was just the pure shock of the image’s graphic nature. At least it taught everyone not to mess with his wife and kids.

6

Aemond burns Aegon

Season 2, Episode 4 (2024)

Image via HBO

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There’s no doubt that the Battle of Rook’s Rest delivered some of Season 2’s most jaw-dropping moments. But perhaps none was more shocking than Aemond’s betrayal of his own brother—especially since this did not happen in the book. Indeed, as Aegon recklessly charges into battle atop Sunfyre, Aemond arrives on Vhagar and unleashes dragon fire that engulfs both king and dragon. As a result, Aegon is left horrifically burned and gravely injured, while his dragon is wounded.

Whether Aemond acted out of calculated ambition or simply seized an unexpected opportunity, the moment completely transforms the Greens’ internal dynamics. In just one moment, the cunning Prince fully showcased his true colors and how his schemes had no boundaries. It’s a wonderfully ruthless twist that perfectly captures House of the Dragon‘s obsession with familial betrayal and reiterates exactly why Aemond is a deeply troubling foe.

The current news cycle seems to be doing its level best to break all of us psychologically, but many of us still enjoy watching movies about characters losing their ever-loving minds. Psychological thrillers are one of the most popular kinds of thrillers, and they’ve been a genre staple for decades. Maybe it’s because some of us like a little schadenfreude in our films, so we watch the ones that put their protagonists through the most pain and punishment. Maybe we feel safer watching someone on a screen go crazy, confident that it could never be us. Maybe we’re all just a little more sick in the head than we’re all willing to admit. Who knows, but let’s look at some psychological thrillers.

The category of crazy today is psychological thrillers that will keep you hooked from start to finish — movies that dig deep into your psyche and don’t let go. They reel you in with intrigue and maybe even some mystery, and then they capture you in a big butterfly net and refuse to let you go. We’ve got classics from the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s, surreal trips from the ’60s and ’70s, a slasher’s return in the ’80s, a master filmmaker’s ’90s remake, and three singular sociopaths in the 21st century. These are the psychological thrillers that hook you from the start and don’t let go until they’re finished.

‘M’ (1931)

Image via Vereinigte Star-Film GmbH

Step into the mind of a murderous madman in Fritz Lang‘s serial killer thriller M. Starring Peter Lorre as a child killer and following a procedural plot where both the police and the criminals of Berlin try to entrap him, the film is totemic within the crime genre. It’s a bleak view of violence and the nature of villainy that strikes a harrowing chord thanks to Lang’s striking use of visuals and Lorre’s intense lead performance. While he’d become Hollywood’s favorite creep for years after this breakthrough, nothing quite approaches the unsettling nature of Hans Beckert.

All of Berlin is on high alert thanks to a series of child killings. The police are desperate to catch the killer, which also puts pressure on the city’s criminal underworld. These organized criminals decide to take matters into their own hands and capture Hans, which leads to a mock trial where the madman laments his compulsion in a monologue that is deeply discomforting. Lorre lets you into the psyche of his “psycho,” and Lang lays out a landscape where a mind like his can prey on the innocent. M may be almost 100 years old, but it still knows how to grip you tight.

‘Gaslight’ (1944)

Image via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

The term “gaslight” has proliferated far and wide across our cultural consciousness. It’s not unusual to hear it used by a Boomer, Millennial, or Gen X and Z. It’s become cemented into our vernacular, but many people don’t know it originated in a movie. George Cukor‘s classic psychological thriller Gaslight from 1944 was based on a play by Patrick Hamilton, which had previously been adapted in 1940 as a British film. Cukor’s take is the far superior and more iconic version, following a husband who goes to extraordinary lengths to convince his wife she’s losing her mind.

Paula (Ingrid Bergman) is an opera singer married to Gregory (Charles Boyer). After Paula finds a letter addressed to her murdered aunt, her world begins to crumble: she can’t seem to remember doing things her husband says she did, and she’s apparently hallucinating about the dimming gaslights in their home. Of course, all of this is the work of her husband Gregory, who has some secrets of his own that he can’t let Paula find out about, so he’s been systematically undermining her, making her question her own sanity. Gaslight is a classic psychological thriller draped in gothic and noir stylings. It was nominated for multiple Academy Awards, winning for Bergman’s performance and the art direction, but its legacy has lived on well beyond its celluloid origins.

‘Les Diaboliques’ (1955)

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It’s one thing to make someone think they’re going crazy, but what about literally scaring them to death? That’s part of one of the most iconic scenes in Henri-Georges Clouzot‘s Les Diaboliques. Based on a novel by Boileau-Narcejac, who also wrote the book that inspired Alfred Hitchcock‘s Vertigo, the film is a psychological thriller so intense that it’s become considered a classic of the horror genre as well. There’s nothing supernatural about the film, unless you consider the inhuman lengths some people will go to drive someone insane.

Michel (Paul Meurisse) is the tyrannical headmaster of a boys’ boarding school. He’s married to Christina (Vera Clouzot), who has a serious heart condition, and is having an affair with teacher Nicole (Simone Signoret). Michel subjects both women to different forms of abuse, which leads them to join forces to murder him. When his body disappears, they become convinced that his spirit is haunting the school grounds, which eventually leads to a twist ending that’s among the most iconic in cinema. Les Diaboliques has influenced dozens of thrillers and horror films since its release, but none of them dig in quite as deep as this classic.

‘What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?’ (1962)

Image via Warner Bros.Pictures

While women are often the victims in this subset of thrillers, due to many of them being an unfortunate reflection of society’s gender inequalities, they can also be some vicious villains. Nowhere is that more evident than in the progenitor of the psycho-biddy subgenre, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? Starring Hollywood icons Bette Davis and Joan Crawford as antagonistic sisters of former fame, the movie proves that actresses can do crazy just as well as their male counterparts, and they can do it backwards and in heels.

Jane (Davis) is a former child star of vaudeville whose career has long since been eclipsed by her movie star sister Blanche (Crawford), who later becomes paralyzed in a car accident. Years later, the two ladies share a crumbling mansion as Jane slips further into alcoholism and subjects her sister to horrific abuse. The legacy of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? extends beyond its contributions to the thriller and horror genres, with the alleged feud between Crawford and Davis on set fueling years of tabloid journalism and even serving as the basis for a couple of television series. Regardless of the truth behind the tension, the two actresses make for a crackling onscreen duo in this camp classic psychological thriller.

‘Don’t Look Now’ (1973)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Grief and trauma have become popular themes in the current era of “elevated horror,” but fantastic filmmakers have been using the strong emotional responses to fuel all kinds of terrifically terrifying films for years. Take Nicolas Roeg‘s surreal Don’t Look Now, a Hitchcockian thriller updated with more visceral violence and sexual content, as well as a fracture editing style that mimics the unstable psychological state of its married protagonists. It’s a frightening depiction of the damaging effects of loss and grief with two superlative lead performances.

John (Donald Sutherland) and his wife Laura (Julie Christie) are struggling to piece their lives back together after the drowning death of their young daughter. Moving to Venice, the couple begin to experience strange sightings that make them question their own sanity. John believes he may be seeing the specter of their deceased daughter, while a serial killer is also stalking the same streets he wanders. There’s an unsettling aura all around Don’t Look Now, which gives a gothic bend to its tale of tragedy that makes its discordant ending all the more effective. It’s a movie that demands attention and hooks you up high to let you struggle to find a foothold in its layered narrative.

‘Psycho II’ (1983)

Image via Universal Pictures

While Hitchcock merely inspired Roeg, the master of suspense gets directly sequelized by director Richard Franklin for the psychological slasher Psycho II. While some decried the mere idea of making a sequel to Hitchcock’s seminal horror thriller, Franklin’s film carves out its own colorful place to exist alongside it. Featuring Anthony Perkins reprising his iconic role as Norman Bates, it’s a movie that uses the universal knowledge of its predecessor to keep the audience, and its own characters, guessing until the very end.

Written by cult filmmaker Tom Holland, the sequel picks up with Norman 22 years later as he’s being released from a psychiatric hospital. He moves back into his old home and tries to ease himself back into normal society, but a series of phone calls from “Mother” let him know he isn’t free of his demons yet. Then the bodies start piling up. Just like the first film, there are plenty of twists in this psychological film, and even more gruesome kills befitting its ’80s era. It may not measure up to the original masterpiece, but Psycho II will keep you on the hook the whole time.

‘Cape Fear’ (1991)

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With the recent Apple TV adaptation, Cape Fear now exists in three distinct eras of thrillers. The original 1962 film, based on the novel The Executioners by John D. MacDonald, is a straightforward thriller executed perfectly. The newest streaming series convolutes the plot considerably and recontextualizes it for the modern era, but the most psychotic version remains Martin Scorsese‘s 1991 remake, which features a towering and terrifying performance by Robert De Niro. It’s a remake that not only amplified the violence and gore for audiences who’d been fed a steady diet of slashers for a decade plus, but also added darker shades to all of its characters, plumbing some upsetting psychological depths in the process.

Max Cady (Robert De Niro) is a convicted rapist who only has one thing on his mind when he’s released from prison: revenge. Cady has his sights set on lawyer Sam Bowden (Nick Nolte) and his family. Cady blames Bowden, who was his defense attorney, for his conviction after discovering he had buried evidence. His torment of the family goes far beyond the limits shown in the 1962 original, particularly in an updated version of Cady’s interaction with teenager Danielle (Juliette Lewis). In the original, their encounter is a thrilling chase sequence, but in Scorsese’s remake it becomes a stomach-churning seduction. Cape Fear is a terrifying thriller that hooks and tortures you with two hours of total terror.

‘One Hour Photo’ (2002)

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Robin Williams was, of course, known for his brilliant comedic mind and manic energy. It’s what made his softer, dramatic turns in films like Dead Poets Society so affecting. It’s also what made his dark turn in the 2000s so terrifying. In 2002, Williams starred in both Christopher Nolan‘s Insomnia and Mark Romanek‘s One Hour Photo. Both films showcased Williams as different kinds of disturbed men, but it’s his turn in One Hour Photo that truly cuts to the bone. As Romanek’s feature directorial debut, it’s an assured and disturbing film about the intersection of profound loneliness and dangerous obsession.

Sy Parrish (Williams) is a photo tech who is devoted to his work since he has no family or friends. It’s through his work that Sy forms an unhealthy obsession with one particular family. Developing their photos, Sy forms a parasocial attachment to them and their idyllic lives. When that perfect illusion is shattered, Sy’s obsession takes a dark turn, and Williams’ mannered performance turns from tragic to terrifying. One Hour Photo is a portrait of an alienated man inspired by films like Taxi Driver. Whereas Travis Bickle used a .44 Magnum, Sy uses a digital camera.

‘Nightcrawler’ (2014)

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Heir apparent to the toxic mantle held by Travis and Sy is Lou Bloom. Played by a rail-thin Jake Gyllenhaal in Dan Gilroy‘s neo-noir nightmare Nightcrawler, Lou is another disaffected loner who finds beauty in the bloodshed. Set in the world of stringers, freelance photojournalists who sell footage to television stations, the film is a dark odyssey into the hearts of men who take the motto “if it bleeds it leads” a little too seriously. Between Gilroy’s razor-sharp script and Gyllenhaal’s committed performance, Nightcrawler is just like carnage on the late-night news: hard to stomach, but impossible to look away from.

Lou is a schemer and a con man who finds a new lucrative opportunity when he discovers the money available to those who capture violent footage of accidents and crimes for unscrupulous news stations. He quickly escalates from recording the violence to tampering with it to actively engaging in it, and the strange energy which Gyllenhaal brings to the character keeps you entranced the entire time. Nightcrawler is both a sharp satire of the modern media landscape and a tautly made psychological thriller that invites you into the mind of a man who loves to gaze into the abyss, and then record it and sell the footage.

‘Nightmare Alley’ (2021)

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There’s room for one more creepy con man on this list, and he comes in the form of Bradley Cooper‘s Stan Carlisle, a drifter turned carnival worker and eventual mentalist in Guillermo del Toro‘s Nightmare Alley. Adapted from the novel of the same name by William Lindsay Gresham, which was previously made into a 1947 cult classic, the film is just as dark, if not darker, than any of Del Toro’s horror films. Carlisle is a man driven by pure ambition who will lie, cheat, steal and even kill to get what he wants. That ambition leads him into some dark alleys, and by the end of the film, his life truly has become a nightmare.

After Carlisle literally burns down his old life, he finds his way to a traveling carnival where he ingratiates himself. Learning the tricks of the trade, Carlisle quickly finds success as a psychic performer. Moving to the city, his act attracts even more attention from the wealthy elite, as well as a cold and calculating psychologist. Any fan of noir knows where this story is headed, but Cooper is magnetic in the lead role, and Del Toro’s pulpy visuals give the film a real viscerality. It’s a psychological thriller made by a master of the macabre playing in the black waters of crime dramas.