By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 19 seconds ago

One of the reasons that it’s hard to make a modern superhero film is that you have to please two very different audiences. The first is made up of hardcore comics fans who will be scrutinizing the movie to see how well the writer and director knew their comic book lore. The second audience is made up of general moviegoers who have never so much as cracked an issue and just want to be entertained for a couple of hours. Recently, Supergirl tried its hand at pleasing both groups at once.

The results were somewhat mixed. Judging by its relatively modest opening weekend and equally modest Rotten Tomatoes score, Supergirl didn’t really have mass appeal with general audiences. However, it really resonated with comics fans who are impressed at just how many references and homages are stuffed into this short film. Fortunately, you don’t need laser eyes to uncover them; just keep reading to discover the coolest and downright weirdest Easter eggs you missed in Supergirl!

Everyone Thinks Jor-El Is A Weirdo

One of the major canon changes in last year’s Superman was the revelation that Superman’s parents sent him to Earth to be a conqueror. When this news breaks out, it instantly tanks the Man of Steel’s reputation. Considering that the message from his parents was translated by Lex Luthor, many fans believed that it was a lie and that Superman’s parents were essentially good people. This was despite everyone from Mr. Terrific to James Gunn confirming that the message was authentic.

In a flashback, however, Supergirl revealed that Jor-El really did want his son to go conquer the Earth. Interestingly, though, the movie also emphasizes how Jor-El is seen as a bit of a weirdo by those who know his plan. Specifically, we see Supergirl’s mother disdainfully refer to Jor-El’s plan to turn his “sweet little boy” into a “conqueror of worlds.” It’s a brief moment, but one that verifies Jor-El’s sinister nature while clarifying that not all Kryptonians share his barbaric mentality.

Supergirl, The Pop Culture Fiend

In Supergirl, the title character is celebrating her 23rd birthday. We learn that she spends a lot of her time partying off-planet, and it’s not made explicitly clear how much time she’s actually spent on Earth. However, based on her dialogue and clothing, we have one answer: she’s been on the planet long enough to absorb the pop culture! One example of this is when she orders a band to keep playing during a barfight because “it’s like the Titanic.” This means she’s familiar with Earth’s most famously doomed ship, most likely from watching James Cameron’s Titanic.

Additionally, she calls one of the many ugly aliens in the film “Squidward,” confirming that she’s a fan of (or at least, aware of) SpongeBob SquarePants. Speaking of fandoms, Supergirl spends most of the movie wearing a Blondie shirt, signifying her love of the musician. She’s probably also a fan of Jimmy Eat World, as a slowed-down version of their iconic song “In the Middle” plays during the climactic final fight scene. If Supergirl does like that band, it’s probably her cousin’s influence; previously, James Gunn added the song to Clark Kent’s official playlist on Spotify.

Homages To Star-Lord

While James Gunn directed last year’s Superman, Supergirl was helmed by Craig Gillespie. Watching the film, though, it’s clear that Gillespie cribbed more than a bit from Gunn’s previous work on Guardians of the Galaxy. You can see that in many surface-level aspects, including the snarky characters, exotic aliens, and colorful worlds on display. Beyond that, though, there are some more specific homages. For example, Supergirl spends much of the movie listening to music on her orange headphones. This is very similar to Star-Lord, who uses orange headphones to listen to his beloved cassette music from Earth.

Additionally, Supergirl tries to reassure her kid sidekick at one point by saying, “I have a plan…kind of.” This may be a stretch, but it’s hard to hear this and not think about Star-Lord in the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie. When Rocket questions whether Star-Lord actually has a plan, the Earthman responds, “I have part of a plan.” When pressed to answer what percentage of a plan he has, Star-Lord responds, “12 percent.” Fortunately, Supergirl has something else in common with this Marvel hero: even when her plans are half-baked, they usually work. 

Secretly Introducing A Notorious Villain

My favorite Supergirl Easter egg occurred near the end of the film, when our titular hero is talking to Superman. He doesn’t yet know the specifics of her most recent adventure, but he knows that it started out as a birthday celebration that went sideways. In an attempt to commiserate with her, Superman tells his cousin how his own birthdays have been tricky, but doesn’t really go into any details.

Now, this could mean all sorts of things. As a longtime comic nerd, though, I believe it’s a reference to Mongul, a powerful alien villain that Superman has tangled with before. In the iconic comic story “For the Man Who Has Everything” (written by Watchmen creator Alan Moore), the villain breaks into the Fortress of Solitude and attacks Superman with a plant called “The Black Mercy,” which puts him into a coma of pleasant dreams. Fortunately, he is ultimately freed by Batman, Robin, and Wonder Woman, all of whom came by to wish him a happy birthday. If this Supergirl quote was referencing Mongul, here’s hoping we see him and Superman throw down in a future movie!

For many fans, starring in one of Nickelodeon‘s biggest shows would seem like a guaranteed path to lifelong financial security. But according to Josh Peck, the reality was far different. The former child star recently opened up about his earnings from “Drake & Josh,” revealing that despite starring in the hit sitcom for four seasons, he walked away with far less money than many people assume.

During an appearance on the June 25 episode of the “Financial Tea with Mrs. Dow Jones” podcast, Peck reflected on his early days at Nickelodeon and how his salary evolved throughout his television career. “We started out making $3,000 an episode on ‘The Amanda Show,’” Peck explained. By the time “Drake & Josh” concluded in 2007, he said his average salary had increased to roughly $15,000 per episode.

According to Peck, the series produced around 60 episodes in total, resulting in approximately $900,000 in earnings over four years. While that number may sound impressive on paper, the actor said the amount he actually took home was significantly lower.

Peck explained that after accounting for taxes, agents, and managers, his earnings were drastically reduced. “We probably, between agent, manager and taxes, we cleared half of that,” he said. The actor estimated that he effectively earned about $125,000 annually during the show’s run.

Peck acknowledged that many people would still consider that a substantial income, but he said fans often assume child stars earn enough money to never work again. “The only reason I say it is because people always assume that it’s so much more and why would you ever have to work again?” he explained.

Peck compared the income to that of many successful professionals, noting that while it was a good living, it wasn’t the kind of money that could sustain someone indefinitely.

Fame Left Josh Peck With Financial Anxiety

Beyond the paycheck itself, Peck revealed that growing up with financial uncertainty had a lasting impact on him. “If you have it ingrained in you that you never want to be broke again, you will run like your pants are on fire for as long as you can,” he said.

The actor admitted that a deep fear of financial instability fueled many of his career decisions long after “Drake & Josh” ended. “And I saw that in myself forever, just a deep financial insecurity that drove everything I did.”

Following his Nickelodeon years, Peck continued building a successful career through acting, hosting, podcasting, social media, and film projects.

‘Drake & Josh’ Became One Of Nickelodeon’s Biggest Hits

Created by Dan Schneider, “Drake & Josh” premiered in 2004 as a spin-off of “The Amanda Show.” The sitcom followed unlikely stepbrothers Drake Parker, played by Drake Bell, and Josh Nichols, played by Peck, as they navigated life under one roof.

The cast also featured Miranda Cosgrove, Nancy Sullivan, and Jonathan Goldstein, while recurring appearances from fan-favorite characters helped turn the show into a staple of 2000s children’s television.

The series quickly became one of Nickelodeon’s most successful programs, attracting millions of viewers and helping launch the careers of several young stars.

The Nickelodeon Series Has Faced Renewed Scrutiny In Recent Years

Peck’s comments arrive as interest in Nickelodeon’s early-2000s programming remains high following the release of the 2024 documentary series “Quiet On Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV.” The series featured emotional revelations from Peck’s former co-star Bell, who publicly identified himself as the unnamed minor victim in the criminal case involving former Nickelodeon dialogue coach Brian Peck.

Bell detailed the abuse he suffered as a teenager and later spoke about the overwhelming support he received after sharing his story. “I was sleeping on the couch where I would usually sleep. I woke up to him, I opened my eyes, I woke up and he was sexually assaulting me. I froze and was in complete shock and had no idea what to do or how to react, and I have no idea how to get out of this situation,” Bell said.

Bell was 15 at the time and said he felt trapped by the situation. He explained that the abuse became a secret because he feared people would start asking questions if he suddenly stopped visiting Brian.

Brian was arrested in 2003 and later pleaded no contest to charges related to the sexual abuse of a child. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison and required to register as a sex offender.

Josh Peck Publicly Supported Drake Bell After ‘Quiet On Set’

In the wake of the series, Peck addressed criticism that he had not immediately spoken out publicly, revealing that he had privately reached out to his former co-star while also expressing support for other survivors who shared their stories.

“I finished the ‘Quiet on Set’ documentary and took a few days to process it,” Peck wrote in a statement shared on Instagram at the time. “I reached out to Drake privately, but want to give my support for the survivors who were brave enough to share their stories of emotional and physical abuse on Nickelodeon sets with the world.”

Peck, who is not related to Brian Peck, went on to call for greater protections for child actors working in the entertainment industry. “Children should be protected,” he continued. “Reliving this publicly is incredibly difficult, but I hope it can bring healing for the victims and their families as well as necessary change to our industry.”

Now, Peck’s candid comments about money offer another glimpse into the realities behind one of Nickelodeon’s most successful shows.

“The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” star Kelsey Swanson is clapping back at a fan who claimed she used to sell her body for money. In a sneak peek clip of Part 2 of the “RHORI” reunion, Swanson, 31, tells host Andy Cohen that the claims are flat-out false. Elsewhere in the special clip, Swanson speaks a bit more about her past relationship with one of Rhode Island’s wealthiest residents, stating that she didn’t believe he was the one spreading the lies.

“I’ve never sold any of my holes for money,” Swanson told Cohen in a special clip of the upcoming reunion, shared by Us Weekly. “Let’s just get that straight.”

Swanson’s statement was in response to a fan who said the reality star used to “charge $29,000 for dinner and dessert” dates.

Swanson told Cohen and her co-stars that she was being harassed by someone who edited photos to make it appear as though she was an escort.

She went on to say that the unnamed person was stealing her photos and creating fake pages in her name, adding that she had “no idea” who it was.

“All of a sudden it stopped,” she said. “I know it was some, I think, actual escort in Boston, who was hanging around the same crew of people that I was hanging out with.”

Swanson Opens Up About Her Previous Relationship With One Of Rhode Island’s Wealthiest Residents

Cohen asked Swanson whether she believed her ex-boyfriend (who wasn’t shown in the series but was mentioned) could be behind the rumors, to which she replied, “I don’t think so.”

Regardless, Swanson said she didn’t care who was behind it because the rumors were false. “I’ve never been an escort and I would never be an escort,” she said.

In a previous interview with Us Weekly, Swanson got candid about her relationship with her ex-boyfriend, who, during the time of filming season 1, was in Florida with his other girlfriend.

“My relationship is very unorthodox. This man dates multiple people,” she said in April 2026. “For the first half of the year, my boyfriend is in Miami. When he’s in Miami, he’s with somebody else.”

Swanson Has Moved On From Her Ex And Is Now In A Relationship With New Partner, Bill L’Europa

Part of Swanson’s season 1 storyline was about her navigating life without her ex-boyfriend’s resources. And while they’re no longer together, she made it clear that even when they were, she never identified as a “sugar baby.”

“Nothing close to it,” she said. “The only man I ever dated with money [is] my boyfriend.”

Season 1 also showed Swanson moving on with her new boyfriend, Bill L’Europa. “I’m only in one relationship now,” Swanson said. “You’ll see as the season progresses where that goes, but I am in a relationship. [I have a] boyfriend, I will label it that, but not married, and no kids.”

Swanson Got Into It With Her ‘RHORI’ Co-Star, Rosie DiMare

In Part 1 of the “RHORI” reunion, Swanson bumped heads with her nemesis, Rosie DiMare. Earlier in the season, the pair feuded over relationship rumors and alleged lies about money.

According to a previous report from The Blast, the pair’s beef reached the point of no return when Swanson appeared at DiMare’s home with a bullhorn and poked fun at her new renovations.

I couldn’t even wrap my head around this was happening,” DiMare said about the incident. “And she’s like, ‘What? It was funny.’”

For those who missed the episode, DiMare physically pushed Swanson out of her home after her comments, creating an even bigger divide amongst the group.

Swanson shared her thoughts on the matter, too, saying she was only joking with DiMare about her home renovations.

“Take a joke,” she said. “It’s not that serious.”

Swanson went on to say that she only joked about her co-star’s home because she thought they were in a much “better place” than before.

She said, “I’m gonna bust her balls a little and make light of the situation.”

DiMare wasn’t on the same page as Swanson, though, stating, “You just wanna make fun of me, and now you’re coming to my house, and you’re gonna do it again? Seriously, it’s f-cked up.”

Part 2 of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” airs on Bravo on Sunday at 9 PM ET.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has no shortage of memorable moments, but one of its biggest surprises barely belongs to Mario at all. Fox McCloud’s appearance, voiced by Glen Powell, immediately stole scenes with the kind of confidence and charisma that reminded audiences why Nintendo’s ace pilot was once one of the company’s biggest stars. Two months later, Nintendo followed that up with its first new Star Fox game in years, and the critical response has been overwhelmingly positive. Either moment would have been encouraging on its own. Together, they suggest Nintendo may finally have the momentum to turn Star Fox into one of its biggest franchises.

For years, Star Fox has occupied an awkward place within Nintendo’s lineup. Fox and his crew have remained recognizable thanks to Super Smash Bros., but the series itself has struggled to reach the same heights as Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, or even Kirby. Nintendo has spent years experimenting with different ideas, often changing the formula instead of building on the arcade-style action that made the series popular in the first place. Now, Nintendo has something it hasn’t had with Star Fox in a very long time: people are excited about it again. If the company wants another franchise capable of standing alongside its biggest names, it may not have to invent one. It just has to finally commit to the one it already has with a spin-off.

Fox McCloud Has Never Been the Problem

Image via Nintendo

It’s easy to forget just how important Fox McCloud once was to Nintendo. During the Nintendo 64 and GameCube eras, Star Fox was one of the company’s flagship franchises, and Fox himself stood alongside Mario, Link, Samus, and Donkey Kong as one of Nintendo’s defining heroes. The series delivered cinematic space battles years before most console games could even attempt them, while memorable characters like Falco, Peppy, and Slippy gave the Star Fox team a personality that separated them from other action games. The problem was never Fox McCloud, it was Nintendo’s inability to decide what Star Fox should be. Rather than refining the formula that players already loved, later games introduced motion controls, experimental mechanics, and entirely new gameplay styles that often overshadowed the fast-paced aerial combat people actually came for. The franchise slowly lost its identity, and each new release felt like another attempt to reinvent something that didn’t need reinventing.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie reminded audiences of something Nintendo seemed to forget: Fox is an incredibly likable character. Instead of treating him like a nostalgic cameo, the movie presents him as someone who immediately commands attention. Powell brings an effortless confidence to the role without making Fox feel arrogant, creating the kind of charismatic action hero audiences naturally want to spend more time with. For plenty of younger fans, Fox McCloud wasn’t a Nintendo legend, he was simply one of the coolest new characters in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. That’s an incredibly valuable position for Nintendo to be in.

Nintendo Finally Has Proof That Star Fox Still Works

Image via Nintendo

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Movie excitement only goes so far if the games don’t deliver. Fortunately for Nintendo, the newest Star Fox has done exactly that. Released June 25, the latest entry has already earned some of the strongest reviews the franchise has seen in years. More importantly, much of that praise centers on the same idea: Nintendo stopped trying to turn Star Fox into something it isn’t. The series has always thrived on tightly designed missions, replayability, cinematic dogfights, and the thrill of weaving an Arwing through impossible odds. It doesn’t need sprawling open worlds or dozens of RPG systems to justify its existence. Sometimes, players simply want an action game that understands its strengths and executes them exceptionally well.

That’s important because Nintendo doesn’t really have another franchise like Star Fox. Mario owns platformers, Zelda delivers a fantasy adventure, Animal Crossing offers cozy life simulation, while Splatoon has become Nintendo’s multiplayer powerhouse. Star Fox occupies a lane that none of those series do: science-fiction action built around memorable characters and exhilarating space combat. The newest game proves there’s still plenty of room for that kind of experience. Rather than feeling like a nostalgic throwback, Star Fox suddenly feels relevant again.

Nintendo Can’t Afford To Waste This Opportunity

Image via Universal Pictures, Illumination, and Nintendo

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Successful franchises aren’t built from one great game or one memorable movie appearance. They’re built by recognizing when audiences are ready for more. For the first time in years, Nintendo has momentum coming from multiple directions at once. Movie audiences walked away wanting to see more of Fox McCloud, critics are praising the newest game, and Powell has become closely associated with the character after a standout performance. Instead of trying to manufacture excitement through marketing, Nintendo suddenly has something much harder to earn: genuine interest. That creates opportunities well beyond another sequel. Star Fox has the kind of universe that naturally lends itself to movies, animated series, merchandise, theme park attractions, comics, and future crossover appearances. Nintendo has made it clear that it wants to build an entertainment ecosystem around its biggest properties, and Star Fox feels uniquely positioned to become part of that future.

Perhaps the biggest reason is that it fills a gap in Nintendo’s portfolio. While the company’s other flagship franchises each dominate their own genres, none of them scratch the same science-fiction itch that Star Fox does. Fox McCloud and his team have always offered something different, and that difference is exactly what makes the series valuable. Nintendo has spent years searching for the next franchise that can stand alongside Mario, Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon, but they may not need to search anymore. Between The Super Mario Galaxy Movie reminding audiences why Fox McCloud is such a compelling hero and Star Fox‘s latest game proving the series still has plenty of life left, Nintendo has already done the hard part. Now it just has to keep going.

Taylor Swift has a dream of having kids where “the whole block [is] lookin’ like” future husband Travis Kelce — and he’s seemingly on the same page.

“Do I sense a Kelce family reunion in the works? We really don’t have a big family,” Travis’ older brother, Jason Kelce, said on a recent episode of the siblings’ “New Heights” podcast, during an ad break for WhatsApp. “It might be nice to meet some of the Kelce relatives that we don’t know.”

Travis, 36, replied by noting that he “sees it in our future.”

“For sure,” he continued. “It’s time for WhatsApp. Download WhatsApp now.”

Related: Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift ‘Absolutely Want a Family’: Source

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are thinking about their future as they gear up to tie the knot. “They absolutely want a family,” a source exclusively tells Us Weekly. “Their dream is to have kids.” The insider adds that Kelce and Swift, both 35, might “not wait too long” when it comes to family planning. […]

Jason, 38, further revealed that future family reunions will be perfect “once we get some kids that all look the same on the block,” quoting Swift’s song “Wish List.” (Jason already shares four daughters with his wife, Kylie Kelce.)

“There you go,” Travis quipped, laughing off Jason’s Easter egg. “I’ll add it to my wish list.”

“Wish List,” stylized with dollar signs in place of the letter “s,” is one of the songs written about Travis on Swift’s 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl.

“I just want you, huh / Have a couple kids, got the whole block lookin’ like you / We tell the world to leave us the f*** alone, and they do,” Swift sings in the chorus. “Got me dreamin’ ’bout a driveway with a basketball hoop / Boss up, settle down, got a wish.”

According to the pop star, the song is her favorite track from the record.

“It was the song where after we finished it, I was like, ‘Oh, we’re done. Like, we’re good. We’re done with this. This is the final piece,’” Swift said on the U.K.’s Heart Radio in October 2025. “It’s a really dreamy song. It’s a really romantic song.”

She continued, “It details all these different things that people aspire to have in their lives and all the wishes that people are making all over the world.”

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After listing a variety of wishes, Swift shares her dreams for her life with Travis.

Related: Everything Travis Kelce’s Family Have Revealed About Taylor Swift Wedding

While the Kelce family has largely declined to share specific details about Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift‘s wedding, a few family members have shared some insight into the famous couple’s upcoming nuptials. From Jason and Kylie Kelce to mother Donna Kelce, every member of the tight-knit family has been peppered with questions about the couple’s […]

“It is one of my favorite songs on the album, by far. It’s so romantic,” Swift said in an Apple Music description of the song. “It’s got such great imagery in the verses about what kinds of lives people want and just, kind of, living in this state of acceptance of whatever way anybody wants to live in the world as long as you get to live the way you want to live. It was just a blast, as a lyricist, to come up with the pictures of different lives people want. Different goals, different wishes.”

Swift and Travis have been together since 2023, and they are reportedly set to tie the knot later this summer.

Days of Our Lives prediction edition that covers July Sweeps, which runs from June 25th to July 20th, including Cat Greene (AnnaLynne McCord) making a shocking confession about her side job. And we may see Lexie Carver (Renée Jones) succumb to her symptoms and dying again.

We have got predictions for EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel), Sarah Horton (Linsey Godfrey), Lexie, Sydney DiMera (Olivia Rose Keegan),Cat, Chad DiMera (Connor Floyd), Roman Brady (Josh Taylor), Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall), Joy Wesley (AlexAnn Hopkins), Alex Kiriakis (Robert Scott Wilson), for Chanel Dupree (Raven Bowens) and Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman). We’re going to talk about what we could see during the four weeks of sweeps in Salem.

Days of Our Lives: EJ Fires Sarah Over DiMera Enterprises Pharmaceuticals Investigation

Our very first prediction, EJ fires Sarah for investigating DiMera Enterprises Pharmaceuticals. Summer spoilers confirm that EJ fires Sarah with the explanation that he doesn’t need her help. Not a lot of context except that Holly Jonas (Ashley Puzemis) and she does have some pill drama already starting.

So, I suspect EJ is using that as some sort of cover because Sarah has both Brady Black (Eric Martsolf) and Xander Cook Kiriakis (Paul Telfer) poking into DiMera Enterprises Pharmaceuticals. And we know EJ doesn’t like people meddling in his business, especially his dirty dealings.

The suspicious deaths of Clea and Destiny Rowland (Sarah Bartholomew) have Sarah and Brady investigating DiMera Enterprises Pharmaceuticals. And although Brady doesn’t like it, Xander is also helping. And this week, Rita gives EJ a heads up that there may be trouble. And it looks like there was a bad batch of pills that had arsenic in them and they wound up buried out near the Horton cabin because it’s very hard to get rid of arsenic because it’s really hard to destroy.

There’s only certain ways to do it and all those ways are registered. So, even worse, EJ’s son, Johnny, co-CEO of DiMera Enterprises, has also joined in the deep dive into the tainted pill mystery, and firing Sarah isn’t going to stop the investigation, and it might actually make it worse.

Lexie’s Final Chapter on DOOL

Our second prediction, Lexie dies again. The big summer promo has Lexie in the hospital with Abe Carver (James Reynolds) and Theo Carver (Tyler Joseph Andrews) at her side, and Abe is raging at EJ to get out. That’s when he comes to see his beloved sister. So, I suspect during July sweeps, we see Lexie’s health taking a serious downturn. She might even die during sweeps. Dr. Wilhelm Rolf (Richard Wharton) ran some tests. He gave Lexie another dose of the miracle serum.

But it may not be enough of a miracle. Actress Nikki Crawford’s run on Days may be coming to an end. Theo, Abe, and Lexie will all be devastated that her new lease on life gets cancelled. And EJ’s distraught, too. I’m guessing Dr. Rolf will want to freeze her again in a cryogenic pod to try another time to bring her back, but I bet Lexie is going to say no to that.

Days of Our Lives: Sydney’s Return and Danger

Our third prediction, Sydney returns to Salem and her life is at risk. We’ve heard EJ saying that Sydney is coming to see him once school is out in Italy. So that means any day now we could have EJ and Sami Brady’s (Alison Sweeney) daughter Sydney arriving in Salem to shake things up for the teen and college-age scene.

Her brother Johnny will be thrilled to see her and so will the other DiMeras. Plus, Sydney’s sneaky aunt Kristen DiMera (Stacy Haiduk) recently called her out of the blue. And she may have been asking Sydney to spy on her dad for her. Or Kristen might try and kill her like she did with Johnny. Or Kristen might kidnap her to hold her as leverage against EJ.

Days of Our Lives: Cat’s Shocking Confession to Chad

Our fourth prediction. Cat tells Chad she’s a spy this summer. In the promo, Cat faces an enraged Chad who’s furious she held back on him, but it seems to be about her role as EJ’s assistant and maybe access to info on his brother’s sins. We know Cat’s been spying on EJ for the ISA for a while, and Andrew Donovan (Colton Little) just told her not to honeypot EJ, but Cat hasn’t listened. And Andrew flat out said, “Cat better not sleep with EJ.” And we know that Cat’s putting her life in danger playing with EJ like this. We know that the DiMera that Cat really wants is Chad.

And when he confronts Cat in Horton Square this summer, ranting about covering up and hiding things, I suspect she might confide in Chad that she’s an ISA agent, but swears him to secrecy. I actually think he would keep Cat’s promise and Chad might be okay with Cat investigating EJ once she tells Chad some of the heinous things that EJ’s been up to, especially if people are dying and he is covering it up.

Roman’s Heart Returns to Marlena on DOOL

Our fifth prediction, Roman splits with Kate Roberts (Lauren Koslow) and pursues Marlena. We saw Roman Brady livid and raging that Kate lied to him and was setting up his grandson Johnny with the plagiarized book lawsuit. And right now, Roman is actually so mad that he and Kate are sleeping in separate beds. And she’s angry that Roman’s leaning on his ex-wife, Marlena.

You know, when John Black (Drake Hogestyn) was alive, Kate wasn’t threatened by Roman and Marlena’s ongoing friendship. But with John gone a year now, Kate has to realize there’s a legit threat there. Roman and Marlena have a past. They have twins together. And Roman’s angry at Kate for betraying his family. So, Kate’s feeling vulnerable right now and she could do something else stupid that pushes Roman towards Marlena. The other day when Julie Williams (Susan Seaforth Hayes) and Marlena were talking, she encouraged Julie to open her heart and said Doug Williams (Bill Hayes) would want Julie to be happy. And the same could be said about John where Marlena is concerned.

Days of Our Lives: Kelsey’s Medical Crisis Brings Joy and Alex Closer

Our sixth prediction, Kelsey’s medical emergency brings Joy and Alex closer. The summer promo has Alex and Joy in the hospital and he’s worried and Alex asks Joy, “Where’s Kelsey?” And then Joy falls into Alex’s arms for comfort. So, there’s already tension in his marriage because Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) took a pot shot at Joy. Luckily, she missed and now Joy won’t let Stephanie around Kelsey, which means Alex will be spending time with Joy alone so that he can see Kelsey.

So, it looks like Alex’s daughter is going to have some kind of health scare, and that crisis could pull Joy and Alex closer together. Close enough maybe to drive Stephanie away. You remember how exes Sarah and Xander were bonding when their daughter had pneumonia? It could be something like that. We know Joy came to Salem hoping to steal Alex from Stephanie and planning to use the baby to make it happen. However, if Kelsey is sick, I don’t think Joy’s agenda will be foremost on her mind. But it could work out that way anyway on Days of our Lives.

Chanel’s High-Risk Pregnancy Takes a Turn on Days

Our seventh and final prediction. Chanel and Johnny’s baby comes premature, and Chanel and the baby may both be at risk. The summer promo shows her in a hospital bed, and Kayla Johnson (Mary Beth Evans) is checking her out. Chanel’s bleeding and terrified as Kayla rushes everybody else out of the room.

Chanel just got her port installed to start her chemo while pregnant. And both early labor and hemorrhages are known complications of chemotherapy during pregnancy. So we know for sure that Chanel’s going to be bleeding and she may go into early labor as well. Johnny and Chanel knew from the start that this was going to be a high-risk pregnancy.

But her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is going to amp up the risk. Thankfully, Chanel and Johnny have a lot of support and they have little Tate Black (Leo Howard) to keep their mind off the unknown. But given the glimpse from the promo, their new little one could be born premature, which brings complications. And the hemorrhage, the chemo, the cancer, and the pre-term labor could all put Chanel at risk for complications, too.

Real Housewives of Rhode Island star Kelsey Swanson is setting the record straight on rumors that she was an escort.

“I’ve never sold any of my holes for money,” Kelsey, 31, told Andy Cohen in Us Weekly’s exclusive clip from the second part of the RHORI reunion, set to air on Sunday, June 28. “Let’s just get that straight.”

Her “interesting” choice — as pointed out by costar Rosie DiMare — was in response to a rumor written in by a viewer, claiming that Kelsey would “charge $29K for dinner and dessert.”

Kelsey claimed she has “proof” that she was “harassed by somebody” who made it look like she was an escort. (Kelsey previously denied these rumors in an April Instagram comment.)

“Stealing my photos, making fake pages of me,” Kelsey explained, noting that she has “no idea” who was doing this to her.

“All of a sudden it stopped,” she clarified. “I know it was some, I think, actual escort in Boston, who was hanging around the same crew of people that I was hanging out with.”

Andy, 58, didn’t want to “float conspiracy theories” but he couldn’t help wondering if it was someone connected to Kelsey’s ex-boyfriend who wanted to “mess” with her.

“I don’t think so,” she responded. “But I’ve never been an escort and I would never be an escort.”

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Related: Did Rulla‘s Husband Really Try to Get Her ‘RHORI‘ Costar Jo-Ellen Fired?

Did Rulla Nehme Pontarelli’s husband, Brian Pontarelli, really try to get Jo-Ellen Tiberi fired from her job? That’s the question Us Weekly’s exclusive clip from this week’s episode of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island is posing. “Brian called my colleague and talked s*** about me,” Jo-Ellen claims in the third episode of Bravo’s newest […]

Kelsey’s relationship with her ex-boyfriend was a story line on the show during the early episodes of RHORI. While he didn’t appear on the Bravo series, their 10-year relationship was discussed at length when it was revealed that five months out of the year he lived with another woman in Florida.

“My relationship is very unorthodox. This man dates multiple people,” Kelsey told Us exclusively in April. “For the first half of the year, my boyfriend is in Miami. When he’s in Miami, he’s with somebody else.”

She made it clear to Us that she’s not a “sugar baby,” despite rumors saying otherwise.

“I am not a sugar baby. Nothing close to it,” she said. “The only man I ever dated with money [is] my boyfriend.”

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Kelsey and the unnamed man have since split and Kelsey is in a relationship with William “Bill” L’Europa, who appeared on the show.

“I’m only in one relationship now,” she told Us. “You’ll see as the season progresses where that goes, but I am in a relationship. [I have a] boyfriend, I will label it that, but not married, and no kids.”

Part 2 of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island reunion premiere via Bravo on Sunday, June 28, at 9 p.m. ET and will stream via Peacock the next day.

TLC star Deon Derrico broke his silence in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly after ex-wife Karen Derrico was arrested for threatening him and their 14 kids.

“I still love her as a mother of my children. But I do not like her at all. I don’t like what she’s done,” Deon, 54, told Us on Thursday, June 25. “I don’t like how the children are involved, they’re in the middle of it, and I’m forced to defend my position.”

He added, “I still have to maintain the presence of mind for my innocent children, ’cause no matter what, they’re innocent. When they’re fighting within, no one wins. No one wins. No matter who looks to have won, no one wins and that’s the part that’s most disturbing.”

Karen was recently arrested in Las Vegas and charged with harassment, violating a restraining order, preventing a witness from testifying through threat of violence and aggravated stalking.

She was arraigned on Tuesday, June 23, and pleaded not guilty. Karen’s attorney Jess Marchese confirmed that her client was released on a $2,000 bond and outfitted with an ankle monitor. Karen’s next hearing is set for August 6.

“She had done threatening things to me and things that made me question my life,” Deon told Us.

Deon claimed he told his mother earlier this year that if anything happened to him, they should “look at Karen.” He was still living with Karen at the time, but they had separate bedrooms. (Deon and Karen announced in June 2024 that they were getting divorced.)

“That’s the level of anger and hatred I was feeling from her,” he added, noting that their daughters were apparently concerned about Deon’s safety and would stay in his room.

Related: Who Is Karen Derrico? TLC Alum Allegedly Threatened to Kill Her Family

Karen Derrico is known for her role as a TLC star, but she’s also been making headlines for a recent arrest. Karen made her TLC debut in 2020 when Doubling Down With the Derricos premiered. The reality show followed Karen and her then-husband, Deon Derrico, along with their 14 children. Doubling Down With the Derricos […]

Karen and Deon are the parents of Darian, 18, Derrick, 13, twins Denver and Dallas, 12, quintuplets Deniko, Dariz, Deonee, Daician and ​Daiten, 10, Diez and Dior, 6, and triplets Dawsyn, De’Aren and Dyver, 4.

Deon told Us that Karen filed a temporary protection order against him on April 14.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “I’m not in love with her, and I’m not crazy, so I’m not stalking her. I’m not harassing her. I’m not doing any of those things.”

Karen’s TPO was dismissed, so Deon filed his own. Karen allegedly started sending Deon emails asking her to drop the request.

“I just ignored her emails, and then they kept getting more and more aggressive,” he claimed. “And she had already been threatening the children about killing them.”

Audio from a phone call between Karen and some of her kids was released by TMZ on Thursday, where Karen could be heard scolding, “Don’t ever do that again. Because you make me regret it. Don’t play with me.”

As for whether he’s concerned for Karen’s mental health, Deon told Us the entire situation is “unfortunate” for the family.

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“I don’t want to do anything to provoke that, to poke the bear, so to speak,” he added. “I pray for her.”

Karen shared a statement with Us on Friday, June 26, regarding the situation.

“We are in the process of proving that these emails are crude forgeries by the supposed victim and never sent by my client,” Marchese said. “We have retained a forensic expert who is uncovering vast inconsistencies in the his story.”

Roomies, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker may have called it quits on their marriage, but they’re proving that moving on doesn’t always mean moving apart. While the former couple continues to navigate life after divorce, they’re showing that keeping things cordial for the family remains a top priority—even if a little shade sneaks into the mix every now and then.

RELATED: Baddest Behavior! Kandi Burruss’ Spicy 50th Birthday Yacht Clip Has Folks Double-Tapping Fast (VIDEO)

Kandi Burruss Clowns Todd Tucker During Family Vacation

Y’all! Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker recently reunited for a blended-family vacation in the Bahamas with their children. In videos shared to social media, the former couple appeared to be enjoying some downtime by the pool when Kandi spotted Todd reading ‘Daily Prayers for Men.’ Laughing, she joked that during their nearly 12-year marriage, he’d never picked up a prayer book, adding that he probably should’ve “started praying a long time ago.” Todd laughed off the jab, responding that the devotional was teaching him to “be kind and merciful,” while their son Ace jokingly applauded him. Kandi even admitted in the caption that she sometimes has “the urge to be petty.“

Kandi Burruss Clarifies Status With Todd Tucker Online

Despite the lighthearted exchange, the family appeared to enjoy the rest of their vacation together, even hopping on the viral jiu-jitsu trend set to Drake’s ‘Shabang.’ However, when one fan suggested the exes should get back together since they can vacation together, Kandi quickly shut down the idea. Replying in the comments, she wrote, “Nah… I am not healed. We’ll be getting along & then the convo goes left. 😩 doing good today tho,” making it clear that while the co-parenting relationship is thriving, a romantic reunion isn’t in the cards.

One Instagram user @monyettashaw said, “Here for the positive co-parenting!!! 🔥❤️💪🏽”

This Instagram user @carol_kaledzera added, “They’ll be back together, it’s a scheme that Todd set up“

And, Instagram user @coopdajuice wrote, “Mama Joyce probably fell to her knees in the bingo hall after seeing this“

Meanwhile, Instagram user @sweetasbriii claimed, “People can still be cool after a breakup. Sometimes you parent better apart than together ❤️”

While Instagram user @j.cole_62 commented, “😂😂😂😂😂 she want him back! 😍 She not fully over it yet! I know I’m a tauras 🙌❤️”

Finally, Instagram user @dolcevitadee shared, “Who else shocked to see Todd“

RELATED: The Internet Claps For Todd Tucker After He Sends Sweet Message To Kandi Burruss On Her 50th Birthday (PHOTO)

Some of Hollywood’s greatest movies have been so good that they’ve welcomed the invitation of furthering the story or characters through more films. But overcoming the sequel curse is not always easy. Then, those who do triumph get the rare opportunity to expand into a trilogy, forging a legacy in the process. We’re here to celebrate ten of the greatest trilogies, each amazing from start to finish.

Whether cohesive trilogies or three films that make up a thematic trilogy, these are some of the best of the best. From three-part adaptations of classic novels to reboots of beloved franchises, from newfound science fiction adventures to superhero blockbusters, these trilogies have had a massive impact on cinema and pop culture as a whole. How many have you seen and which will you be watching this weekend?

‘Avatar’ Trilogy

Image via 20th Century Studios

Passion projects can either result in a complete masterpiece or become a devastating pretentious pet piece. Fortunately for James Cameron, his dream film was the former. It was so good, it launched a franchise. Now three films deep, Avatar was a game-changing cinematic wonder. The trilogy follows former Marine Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and his Na’vi family as they protect the lush moon of Pandora from a colonizing human megacorporation. The epic sci-fi story explores themes of environmentalism, indigenous survival, and family unity across different Pandoran ecosystems. A masterpiece in movie technology and expansive world-building, Avatar transported audiences to an unmatched, immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Though some call the first film’s story derivative, the old-fashioned storytelling style made the science fiction themes more accessible. By allowing an easy narrative to take precedence, it ensures the dazzling visuals remain at the forefront. Pandora is a mesmerizing world that one might think is only attainable by imagination, but thanks to Disney, we can visit the wondrous locale. It’s part of why the allure of the second and third films was there. The trilogy’s expansive lore and mythology of Pandora is the franchise’s greatest asset. Introducing new factions like the ocean-dwelling Metkayina clan and the fire-wielding Ash People gives further color to the story. At its core, the trilogy is about family. As your journey with Jake and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) unfolds, we watch them fight to protect their children, who then have their own coming-of-age tales. The emotional core of the story matures through each film, anchoring the heavy CGI in raw human emotion. Avatar is a rewarding franchise the more it evolves.

‘Back to the Future’ Trilogy

Image via Universal Pictures

What could have become a hokey science-fiction comedy evolved into an iconic trilogy that helped define the ‘80s. Created by Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, the Back to the Future trilogy follows teenager Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and eccentric scientist Dr. Emmett “Doc” Brown (Christopher Lloyd), who use a modified DeLorean time machine to travel through different eras—the past, present, and future—to fix fractured timelines and ensure their own existence. Seamlessly balances high-concept time travel with effortless storytelling, unforgettable character chemistry, and brilliant, interlocking scripts. Back to the Future is a nostalgia-driven adventure that made sci-fi family-friendly. Back to the Future is wholesome entertainment with universal themes, ranging from family to destiny and the generation gap in between.

Time travel tales are often bogged down by complicated paradoxes, overly complicated plot points, and nonsensical decisions. Not in Back to the Future. By keeping things simple, the franchise allows the adventure to remain the prime focus. The first film is one of the most intricately constructed scripts in which tiny details or throwaway lines in the beginning pay off by the end. It was with that care that audiences were eager to see Matty and Doc went next. From a dark reality present to the Old West, no matter where the journey headed, it was handled with care. One might believe the heart of rock and roll was the soul of the franchise, but it was actually the ever-growing chemistry of its two leads. Fox and Lloyd are simply irreplaceable. They may be three individual films, but together, they create the perfect trilogy.

Cornetto Trilogy

Image via Rogue Pictures

Call it the Cornetto Trilogy or Three Flavours Cornetto or the Blood and Ice Cream Trilogy, but whatever you refer to it as, you know it’s absolutely amazing. The brainchild of director Edgar Wright and star Simon Pegg, the three British comedies defined funny at the dawn of the 21st century. Comprised of three films that do not share a connected storyline or universe, the trilogy functions as thematic companions. Shaun of the Dead, a zombie horror comedy, Hot Fuzz, a buddy cop action flick, and The World’s End, a sci-fi alien invasion film, combined to reinvent the faces and humor of the future. They work as three standalone films, but they share razor-sharp visual comedy, emotional depth, and brilliant continuity, all thanks to the different flavors of Cornetto ice cream.

Each movie takes viewers on unique adventures across three distinct genres, all led by Pegg, Nick Frost, and a rotating cast of core stars, including Bill Nighy, Martin Freeman, and Paddy Considine. Under the watchful eye of Wright, driving the action, he uses kinetic, rapid-fire editing, creative transitions, and visual foreshadowing that make every frame monumental. It’s so smart, the trilogy is a rare form of rewarding rewatchability. In case you didn’t know, the Cornetto color reflects the story: Strawberry or red for gore and zombies, Classico or blue for cops, and Mint or green for aliens. The trilogy may not always be in the conversation with the great trilogies because it consists of three separate films. It’s unfair because they work just as well. Watch in release order or completely random; they are amazing in any way you choose. Just pair it with some ice cream.

Iron Man Trilogy

Image via Marvel Studios

The truth is, had the first Iron Man film not been a blockbuster success, the subsequent films would never have come to fruition. The Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn’t have even been a thing. But thanks to the brilliance of the three films under the Iron Man umbrella, the future of the superhero genre changed forever. The Iron Man trilogy follows the evolution of Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), a billionaire industrialist who transforms from a self-absorbed arms dealer into the heroic armored Avenger, Iron Man. Throughout the series, he battles a range of high-tech villains, struggles with personal trauma rooted in his actions, and learns that his true power comes from his ingenuity rather than his suits. Perhaps the greatest arc of any superhero in cinema, the three Iron Man films are action-packed adventures that perfectly pair the actor with the hero.

One of the most remarkable parts of the greater MCU is just how beloved Iron Man became thanks to Downey Jr. Before the trilogy, the fan-favorite Marvel character in the larger IP tended to be Spider-Man, the X-Men, or Captain America. Then Downey Jr. arrived, an actor looking for his own redemption, eased into a character searching for the same. It’s a pitch-perfect performance that flourishes in each subsequent solo film. From his start as an arrogant, self-centered billionaire, his experience makes him a deeply responsible and selfless hero. He becomes an inspiration and a role model. The Iron Man trilogy thrives thanks to the supporting characters, including Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau) and Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and its iconic villains, namely Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges), Justin Hammer (Sam Rockwell), and Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce), among others. Iron Man became the blueprint that launched the MCU and every solo hero under its umbrella.

Original ‘Star Wars’ Trilogy

Image via 20th Century Studios

The Star Wars franchise would not be as vast and expansive as it is today had it not been for the original trilogy of films. The fourth, fifth, and sixth parts of the overall Skywalker Saga, the original Star Wars, were a game-changing pop culture phenomenon that made space operas not only cool, but the gold standard in science fiction storytelling. Brought to life by the visionary George Lucas, Star Wars takes audiences to a galaxy far, far away, where the Rebel Alliance fights to overthrow the tyrannical Galactic Empire. At its core, it is a coming-of-age story and a tale of redemption centered on farm boy Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) as he learns the mystical ways of the Jedi to confront the Sith Lord Darth Vader (James Earl Jones). A cinematic masterpiece, the original Star Wars trilogy is flawless in execution thanks to its character-driven narratives, groundbreaking cinema technology, and one of the greatest villain evolutions.

With three Star Wars trilogies in existence, three different generations were each given a chance to experience their trilogy in theaters as their first. Those of us born to the prequel or sequel trilogy are jealous of those who were alive during A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. Together, they provide the ultimate hero’s journey: a farm boy dreaming of greatness who faces devastating failure and identity-shattering truths only to return as a true Jedi to redeem his father. Along the way, Star Wars introduces a plethora of iconic characters, including Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness), and Yoda (Frank Oz). Through their witty banter, evolving romances, and loyal friendships, the fantastical universe is grounded in genuine heart. Star Wars was an innovator in tangible, practical effects. Paired with incredible original sound design and an iconic score by John Williams, Star Wars was a world we loved to watch grow. A foundational pillar of pop culture, Star Wars revolutionized the movie trilogy forever. ​​​​​​​

The Before Trilogy

Image via Sony Pictures Classics

Not every great trilogy must be rooted in sci-fi, action, or crime. Some are all about romance. Such is the case for Richard Linklater’s Before Trilogy. The critically acclaimed series follows the evolving relationship of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy) over 18 years. In Before Sunrise, a young American man, Jesse, and a French woman, Céline, meet on a train in Vienna and impulsively decide to spend one night walking, exploring, and talking. They part ways the next morning, promising to meet again. In Before Sunset, set nine years later in Paris, Jesse is on a book tour, and the two unexpectedly reunite. They discuss missed opportunities and grapple with the lingering romantic tension of their first encounter. In Before Midnight, set another nine years later, this time in Greece, Jesse and Céline are a long-term, unmarried couple on vacation with twin daughters. They explore the gritty realities, sacrifices, and conflicts of domestic and parental life. famous for being shot and released in nine-year intervals, the Before Trilogy is an intimate romance that captures a real-time, honest relationship.

The Before Trilogy is raw brilliance that strips away artificial movie tropes in favor of brilliant, deeply authentic conversations. Linklater drives the narratives through naturalistic walk-and-talk conversations about love, philosophy, and life, making viewers feel like they are eavesdropping on a real couple. Just as you’re watching two elite actors grow and age on screen. Hawke and Delpy are mesmerizing in their parts. They are the heart and soul of the trilogy. Each film approaches the relationship through different lenses. From the fantasy and magic of a new connection to missed opportunities through the gritty, tiring, and beautiful reality of long-term intimacy. It’s truly a sweet and beautiful thing. The Before Trilogy chronicles high-intensity intimacy as no other film series has ever done.

‘The Dark Knight’ Trilogy

Image via Warner Bros.

There were four Batman films in the late ‘80s and ‘90s that gave us the chance to see the Caped Crusader on the big screen. But when the fourth film, starring the third actor, flopped, it seemed the experiment was over. Then Christopher Nolan swooped in and recalibrated Bruce Wayne as The Dark Knight, giving us the definitive iteration for the 21st century. The Dark Knight trilogy offers a gritty, realistic reimagining of the DC Comics superhero, following billionaire Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) as he transforms into a symbol of hope, descends into the shadows, and ultimately redeems himself. The Dark Knight trilogy takes the DC comic tropes and strips them bare, providing three distinct films that ground Gotham City in a colossal crime empire where its only hope is a hero with no superpowers, but intellect, elite training, and sheer willpower.

Across the three films—Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Knight Rises—Nolan crafts a visionary narrative that ultimately becomes a deeply personal saga in which the titular character channels trauma into a journey toward heroism. Rather than tackling the heavy battles of gods and aliens, most superhero films explore The Dark Knight trilogy, which revolves around morality, corruption, and the friction between the law and vigilantism as three crime thrillers. The trilogy is greatly helped by the cavalcade of villains who pass through the films, including Ra’s al Ghul (Liam Neeson), Scarecrow (Cillian Murphy), Bane (Tom Hardy), and, of course, the Joker (Heath Ledger). Nolan single-handedly elevated the superhero genre through his groundbreaking filmmaking, demanding practical effects and realistic stunts wherever possible, creating a jaw-dropping, visceral experience. It’s going to take a lot for any Batman trilogy to top the brilliance of The Dark Knight. ​​​​​​​

‘The Godfather’ Trilogy

Image via Paramount Pictures

There are very few films considered definitive cinema quite like The Godfather trilogy. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by Mario Puzo, the epic Shakespearean-like tragedy traces the rise, corruption, and slow decay of the Corleone crime family. At its core, the saga examines the cost of absolute power, the illusion of the American Dream, and how the pursuit of safety can ultimately destroy the very family one tries to protect. Chronicling the Corleone clan from the 1900s through the ‘80s, The Godfather trilogy became the blueprint for mafia movies forever. There used to be stereotypes about gangster films. These films transcended the standard, offering a truly powerful and enduring narrative.

The films use the mafia as a framework to explore the destructive nature of ambition and wealth beyond the bloodshed and murder. Right from the start, “I believe in America,” set the tone, subverting the ideals of the American Dream. Within, the film comments richly on immigration, loyalty, betrayal, and how absolute power ultimately devours a man. Al Pacino’s Michael Corleone is one of the most fascinating and chilling characters in cinema history. It’s all thanks to Pacino’s mesmerizing performance. Save perhaps the MCU, no film franchise has boasted a brilliant elite ensemble quite like The Godfather. Alongside Pacino, you get to watch the likes of Diane Keaton, Marlon Brandon, Robert De Niro, James Caan, Sofia Coppola, Andy Garcia, Bridget Fonda, among others. With seamless storytelling and extraordinary cinematography, The Godfather trilogy is the epitome of great filmmaking.

‘The Lord of the Rings’ Trilogy

Image via New Line Cinema

There is no other high fantasy epic that will ever achieve the highest acclaim that The Lord of the Rings found. Lifted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel, the Peter Jackson-directed films follows the hobbit Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) on a quest to destroy the One Ring—a corrupting artifact of the Dark Lord Sauron. Accompanied by a loyal fellowship, Frodo must navigate the treacherous lands of Middle-earth to cast the ring into the fires of Mount Doom. Broken into three larger-than-life films—The Fellowship of the Rings, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King—the trilogy pairs immense passion and meticulous craftsmanship with timeless storytelling for a celebration of a brilliant visionary.

The story was an enthralling adventure that pushed the trilogy storytelling device. They can be individual tales, but they are truly three films that tell one epic story. The films are rooted richly in humanity through the universal themes of friendship, hope, loyalty, duty, and sacrifice. The audience may be watching elves, dwarves, and hobbits, but through their actions, they are as profoundly human. Epic fantasy may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you simply cannot deny how captivating the scope that the film presented. Jackson’s timeless visuals gave the trilogy a historically grounded Middle-earth we all wished we could visit. Jackson captured the source material with ease. Perhaps the most important element of filmmaking was shooting all three films back-to-back, allowing the arc to be cohesive like one grand film. With so many awards to its name, The Lord of the Rings trilogy is the blueprint for greatness.

‘The Planet of the Apes’ Trilogy

Image via 20th Century Studios

In 1968, the very first film adaptation of Planet of the Apes rocked the world, establishing a distinct visual style for the franchise. Through a series of sequels, there was a fascination and adoration for the sci-fi world depicted in the films. Then, in 2001, Tim Burton took his turn at reviving the franchise, and unfortunately, it was botched on arrival. Ten years later, a brand-new interpretation arrived through quite a daring risk: the apes were not humanoid beings; they were actual apes. With the aid of impeccable CGI, it became the recipe for success, giving birth to the definitive trilogy of the franchise. In the reboot trilogy, the epic sci-fi saga explores the dawn of a new intelligent ape civilization. It tells the story of Caesar (Andy Serkis), a genetically evolved chimpanzee, who transitions from a captive pet to a revolutionary leader who guides his species to freedom as humanity collapses. A profound, character-driven story, the trilogy captured the allure of the original while giving it a dynamic, fresh perspective that made the apes nuanced, emotional beings.

Consisting of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and War for the Planet of the Apes, the saga masterfully balanced groundbreaking CGI with a deeply moving story. Caesar’s emotional journey was crucial to its brilliance. Using his evolution from a curious lab subject to a mythic leader allowed the narrative to explore themes of family, morality, and the clash of civilizations. Before, the apes were gimmicks. Here, the trilogy presented both the apes and humans with deeply flawed, understandable motivations. The ensuing conflict stemmed from tragic misunderstandings and survival instincts rather than black-and-white good-vs.-evil tropes. There was brilliant evolution in the story. The first film tackled a grounded, scientific origin story. The second took on the fragility of peace and political betrayal. The conclusion was a sweeping epic of biblical proportions. With Serkis anchoring the projects with advanced motion-capture technology, you get to see authentic, nuanced emotional performances from the apes who convey pain and empathy without uttering a single word. The reboot trilogy is more than just a spectacle; it’s a cinematic revolution.