By Robert Scucci
| Updated 31 seconds ago

I’m thoroughly convinced that film critics in the ’90s simply didn’t know how to have fun, because why else would National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon 1 (there is no sequel) only have a 21 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes? I know I’m extremely immature for my age and entertainment choices, but Loaded Weapon 1 is such a fun movie because it so reliably and effortlessly parodies every single buddy cop movie of its time. Throw in an incredibly talented cast willing to play everything straight while navigating the most ridiculous conspiracy involving smuggling copious amounts of drugs through a Wilderness Girl troop, and you’re going to have a great time.

If you watch a lot of these movies that fall into the Naked Gun, Fatal Instinct, and I’m Gonna Git You Sucka wheelhouse, you’ll notice they all have one thing in common: they only care about shtick. That’s all to say you definitely have to be in a silly, non-critical mood to enjoy movies like Loaded Weapon 1. If you’re looking for something thought-provoking and mind-bending, you won’t find it here. If you are, however, looking for as many jokes per minute as humanly possible in the form of puns, sight gags, miscommunications, and sometimes all of the above happening at the same time, then there’s still hope for you.

A Grand Wilderness Girl Conspiracy

In Loaded Weapon 1, every obvious murder is ruled a suicide until more evidence falls into place. This is what happens to Billie York (Whoopi Goldberg), a woman who was shot several times by Mr. Jigsaw (Tim Curry dressed as a Wilderness Girl), who’s searching for a microfilm containing a recipe that can turn cocaine into cookies. Mr. Jigsaw works with the evil General Curtis Mortars (William Shatner wearing a fake mustache) and Mike McCracken (Denis Leary), who have the Wilderness Girls, run by Miss Destiny Demeanor (portrayed by Kathy Ireland and Allyce Beasley, depending on the scene), unknowingly trafficking drugs under their watch.

This setup brings Sgt. Wes Luger (Samuel L. Jackson), a by-the-books officer on the verge of retirement who used to be partners with Billie York, together with the trigger-happy Sgt. Jack Colt (Emilio Estevez), who lives in what appears to be a trailer on the beach even though the interior shots of his home are clearly from the inside of a mansion. Going through the usual buddy cop getting-to-know-each-other sequences as they become acclimated to each other’s policing styles, Wes and Jack find themselves caught in the middle of a grand conspiracy involving a hapless and seemingly invincible informant, Rick Becker (Jon Lovitz), a drug trafficking ring masquerading as a Grand Wilderness Girl Troop, and Jack’s lost dog, Claire.

While Wes is hellbent on avenging his partner by following strict police protocol, Jack prefers to play things fast and loose, more often than not shooting first and asking questions later. A budding romance takes the forefront as well when Jack becomes quite smitten with Miss Destiny Demeanor, who’s portrayed by Allyce Beasley when her hair’s up and she’s dressed modestly, and Kathy Ireland when her hair’s down and she’s dressed like a total bombshell.

Do You Like Buddy Cop Movies? Good!

The one glaring issue I can think of with Loaded Weapon 1 is that it does one thing other buddy crime flicks don’t necessarily lean into: it’s making fun of a genre that’s already meant to be kind of funny, so the jokes had better be good. The Die Hard (speaking of which, Bruce Willis makes a brief, uncredited appearance as John McClane) and Lethal Weapon films are already comedy adjacent, with most of their laughs coming from charismatic leads chewing the scenery in an action thriller context. The Rush Hour franchise, which kicked off a few years later, leaned fully into comedy, with audiences expecting exactly what they got.

Loaded Weapon 1 falls into the unique trap of trying to make light of a genre that already knows how to make light of itself. The only way to stay one step ahead is to crank everything to absurd levels. Of course the explosions are over the top, and the fight sequences are choreographed with getting a good laugh in mind. Chalk outlines don’t always line up with body placement, Jack drinks a tall glass filled to the brim with hard liquor with just a splash of chocolate syrup to take the edge off, and Wes’ tragic story about that one fateful day working as a crossing guard absolutely lands. 

As an added bonus, William Shatner, who’s having far too much fun as a literal mustache-twirling villain, turns every interaction into unhinged crime lord comedy gold. At one point, he jams his entire face into a fish tank, resurfaces with a menacing look in his eyes, and has a fish flapping between his lips.

My assessment is that Loaded Weapon 1 works on all fronts. It knows it has the impossible task of making light of a genre that’s already well known for its levity, so it goes disproportionately hard with the shtick as if to remind us that we’re not supposed to be taking any of this seriously. And you’re not supposed to take everything seriously all the time, or you’ll end up missing out on everything cool and dying angry.

As of this writing, you can stream National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon 1 for free on Tubi. If you need a good laugh, or a reminder that not all crime movies need deeper meaning or layers upon layers of subtext, this should be your next watch.

NATIONAL LAMPOON’S LOADED WEAPON 1 SCORE

When it comes to buddy comedies in TV and film, chances are male duos are the ones to come to mind first. From Bad Boys and Men in Black, to Rush Hour and 21 Jump Street, these are all movies that follow two main characters who rely on each other for everything, even as things begin to spiral downhill. In recent years, however, some female duos have joined the genre, like in The Heat or Peacock’s newly canceled Ponies, but no show has been as revered as Prime Video’s latest comedy series, Ride or Die.

Starring Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham and Oscar winner Octavia Spencer, the eight-episode series sees both actresses in a whole new light. While already established as beloved, award-winning actresses in their own way, Ride or Die sees Waddingham and Spencer blossom into bona fide action stars, and helps establish the series as one of Prime Video’s best new shows of the year. Just five days since its release on July 15, 2026, and Ride or Die is already a Prime Video must-watch.

What Is ‘Ride or Die’ About?

Ride or Die follows Debbie Claybourne (Spencer) and Judith Burton (Waddingham), two best friends who have been each other’s confidantes for over two decades. Despite years of book clubs, vacations, and antique shopping they’ve done together, Judith has been hiding a few secrets from Debbie — mainly, her job as a highly skilled assassin, not as a forensic accountant like she had pretended. One night, when one of Judith’s mission backfires at the same event where Debbie and her husband, David (Jamie Parker), are in attendance, Judith’s left with no choice but to come clean, and flee with her across Europe.

Also crucial to the series is the enigmatic man known only as The Director (Bill Nighy), Judith’s employer, who works under a mysterious shadow agency. Throughout the action-packed episodes, Debbie and Judith are pursued by not only Interpol law enforcement, the Albanian mob, but also by a bubbly yet ruthless killer named Ana (Sylvia Hoeks). “Series executive producer Ant-Man‘s Peyton Reed, who also directs the first two episodes, immediately sets the tone with high-octane action that keeps the pace moving,” Meredith Loftus wrote in her review for the show for Collider. “Car chases, kinetic fight scenes, and inventive fight choreography — it’s all there — and Waddingham is who makes many of those thrills work.”

‘Ride or Die’ Is One of Prime Video’s Biggest Wins of 2026

Image via Prime Video

On Rotten Tomatoes, the series has scored an impressive 96% percent from critics, overperforming many of the platform’s recent releases, including Off Campus, Elle and Every Year After. From the numbers alone, it’s clear that Ride or Die is a force to be reckoned with for the streaming giant. After all, by standing out in the already crowded streaming landscape, where new releases can disappear in a matter of days, Ride or Die has distinguished itself through overwhelmingly positive reviews, outperforming many of Prime Video’s recent originals and giving viewers all the more reason to add it to their watchlist.

The secret to the show, of course, lies in Spencer and Waddingham’s lived-in and effortless chemistry together onscreen. After all, while Ride or Die delivers globe-trotting action, high-stakes assassin missions, and plenty of comedic set pieces, its greatest strength is their buddy duo. Their believable friendship provides an emotional anchor that keeps the series grounded even as the story escalates into increasingly outrageous situations. Rather than relying solely on action, the series succeeds because it invests in the bond between its two leads, making every dangerous mission feel like a test of a relationship audiences genuinely want to see succeed. “The overall success of Ride or Die lives and ‘dies’ by its two leads (pun intended), and Debbie and Judith’s friendship is ultimately why it sticks the landing,” Loftus wrote in her review. “It’s an exhilarating ride with plenty of action thrills, but it’s primarily about the rare people in your life who will stick with you through thick and thin, have your back when life throws you for a loop, and even jump off a moving train with you while evading assassins.”

With that said, as Ride or Die continues to find its viewers with just a few days since its release, the series is proving that it has the perfect combination of action, humor, and heartfelt character dynamics. By balancing entertaining storylines with a friendship that feels authentic, the show offers something more memorable than a standard spy thriller, or a silly comedy for that matter, and proves that strong character relationships can be just as important, and binge-worthy, as explosive action.

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Release Date

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2026 – 2026-00-00

Network

Prime Video

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Showrunner

Matt Miller

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Directors

Peyton Reed, Lauren Wolkstein, DeMane Davis, Allison Liddi-Brown

Writers

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Tessa Coates

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Jelly Roll‘s daughter, Bailee Ann, made it clear that the public doesn’t know the full story behind her parents’ divorce. The country superstar filed for divorce from Bunnie Xo in May after almost 10 years of marriage. Many have speculated about the reason for their split, and while they didn’t share details, both confirmed that it wasn’t because of infidelity.

Now, Bailee Ann is sharing that the public may be surprised to know the real cause of the separation, hinting that the full story will come to light in time.

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It’s been a little over a month since Jelly Roll’s divorce from Bunnie Xo made headlines. In recent weeks, more information has come to light, but the real reason for the couple’s shocking split has not been revealed, as the singer’s daughter, Bailee Ann DeFord, revealed.

The 18-year-old went live on TikTok on Sunday, July 19, and defended her father against online haters. “Don’t y’all ever come for my father’s name like that again. I’m so done,” she said, telling the public to stop messaging her and leaving comments about the divorce. “I don’t want to talk about it,” Bailee Ann added.

She also reiterated what Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo have said, confirming that infidelity had nothing to do with the demise of the marriage. Bailee Ann did say, however, that the real reason would surprise fans, as reported by Page Six.

Bailee Ann Says The Internet Will ‘Crumble’ When They Find Out What Really Happened

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Jelly Roll’s daughter continued to say that the public has absolutely no idea what really happened, despite many speculations about the divorce.

“I promise y’all, the view of what y’all have of not only the situation, but their relationship and internet in totality is about to f-cking crumble the day that I open my mouth,” the teen said, adding that it wasn’t about a “difference in f-cking opinion.”

Bunnie Xo shared some details about the divorce in an episode of her “Dumb Blonde” podcast, which has since been deleted. As The Blast previously reported, the couple had an explosive fight on Mother’s Day that led Bunnie Xo to tell Jelly Roll to “file the f-cking divorce papers” in the heat of the moment. She didn’t disclose what the argument was about.

“Wait ’til y’all find out. Just f-cking wait,” Bailee Ann said on TikTok.

Bunnie Xo Has A Close Relationship With Jelly Roll’s Daughter

Bailee Ann is Jelly Roll’s daughter from a previous relationship, but the singer and podcast host has had primary custody of her since she was 8 years old. The teen has a close relationship with Bunnie Xo, describing her as her idol and mentor.

In her podcast, Bunnie Xo shared that Bailee Anne had been upset to learn about the divorce, and admitted that the teen was “mad” about the situation. Bunnie Xo said that she understands what Bailee is going through and will give her space to process her feelings.

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“The only woman she has had consistently in her life, she feels, is being taken from her, and it’s a weird transition that we’re gonna have to navigate,” she said.

Jelly Roll And Bunnie Xo Remain Best Friends

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Despite their divorce, both Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo said they will remain in each other’s lives as best friends. The latter admitted that the decision to split was not mutual, and she told him to file the divorce papers due to frustration at that time. As time passed, however, she has learned to accept that they’re better off as best friends.

“We will always be best friends. I will love her. She will probably be the only woman I’ll ever love the way I loved her,” the country singer said at one of his concerts soon after their divorce was revealed to the public.

Both have started to move on from each other. Bunnie Xo said that her ex-husband is back in the dating scene, and she fully supports him. She, on the other hand, was spotted making out with Dylan Wolf over the Fourth of July weekend. She later clarified that they were not dating and she was simply having fun.

Jelly Roll And Bunnie Xo’s Divorce Has Been Finalized

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The ex-couple’s divorce was finalized in July. According to documents, Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo are splitting their assets, including houses, vehicles, and intellectual properties. The country singer will also be making an undisclosed amount of lump sum payment to the podcaster.

While the exact details of the settlement remain private, an insider told PEOPLE that both parties didn’t want to prolong the process and remained respectful of the other. “He’s a very generous person by nature and wanted to make sure the divorce was handled fairly and respectfully,” the source noted.

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Marvel boss Kevin Feige is addressing rumors that Adam Driver is ready to join the MCU. The actor is no stranger to Disney or blockbuster franchises, as he played the main antagonist Kylo Ren in all three movies in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy: 2015’s “The Force Awakens,” 2017’s “The Last Jedi,” and 2019’s “The Rise of Skywalker.” Recently, social media has been buzzing with rumors that Driver is getting ready to join the “X-Men” reboot as the primary antagonist. In a recent interview, Feige admitted that it’s “no secret” that he’d like to work with Driver, but there’s a catch.

During a recent interview on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast with Josh Horowitz, Feige revealed that Driver has turned down joining the MCU so many times that it has become a “tradition.”

Feige said, “It’s no secret we’d like to” work with the “Star Wars” alum. However, he went on to say that it’s a “tradition to Zoom with him and then he passes. That’s a long-lived tradition.”

However, he noted that Driver “couldn’t be more cordial” with his rejection and “is usually upfront about how he is feeling.”

He did not reveal which roles Driver has rejected or why Driver declined to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Fans Are Optimistic About His Marvel Future

@happysadconfused

Kevin Feige says Adam Driver turning down Marvel has become a tradition

♬ original sound – joshuahorowitz

Even though Driver has yet to join the MCU, fans took it as a good sign. “So we will see Adam Driver in Marvel just as his timing when they present the right character,” one fan commented.

“Driver would be a good Mysterio or some villain in that nature,” another follower wrote. “Can’t really see him as a hero.”

“Adam Driver might be Magneto,” a third fan ventured, but another user replied, “I’m really hoping there’s something to the talk of him not being Magneto, but Mister Sinister… cuz I can see him being a good Mags, but MAN he would be a positively EXCELLENT Sinister!!!”

Another fan agreed, writing, “I think it’s turning into Mister Sinister now, but who knows. The leakers are probably covering all their bases.”

Where Adam Driver’s ‘X-Men’ Casting Rumors Came From

The rumors that the “House of Gucci” actor was about to join the MCU actually appeared on July 13. The X (formerly Twitter) account My Time To Shine Hello, claimed that Driver had been “cast as the villain” in the MCU X-Men reboot.

Apocalyptic Horseman, a former Nexus Point News Reporter with several successful scoops in the past, backed the claims, writing, “I can actually corroborate this. He’s playing Magneto.”

A few days later, on July 16, he posted another tweet with a correction, writing, “So sorry guys. Big mistake from my end but hearing Adam Driver is Sinister.”

It is unclear if Magneto will actually be in the film. When one fan asked, “You got any idea on Magneto then?” the scooper replied, “I was only saying he was in it because I heard Driver but if Driver isn’t him then not sure he’s in the film.”

Fans Have Mixed Feelings Over This Potential Casting

Interestingly enough, most users who commented seemed opposed to Driver’s casting. “Bruh… all of that sucks. Adam didn’t fit Magneto, and he doesn’t fit Sinister. They need to bring back Fassbender and McAvoy as Magneto and Xavier,” one user wrote.

“Are all the possible actors white men? Wow, so original. Nothing problematic about that at all,” another follower commented.

“Adam Driver: Magneto > Sinister > Stryker > Nobody! (Not in the Movie),” a third user chimed in.

Even though no one has been cast in the “X-Men” reboot at this time, many fans have their fingers crossed that casting will be announced at San Diego Comic Con.

Who Is Mister Sinister?

Makes sense. pic.twitter.com/LfJc1hvvvF

— Shirt Rip Assemble (@ShirtRip) July 16, 2026

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Dr. Nathaniel Essex is best-known as Mister Sinister in the “X-Men” comics. He is a geneticist who is known for his incredible intellect as he attempts to engineer the ultimate mutant. After he allied with Apocalypse, he augmented his body and developed a host of skills, including telepathy, shape-shifting, and the ability to clone or alter mutants, such as Jean Grey.

Apocalypse was played by Oscar Isaac in 2016’s “X-Men: Apocalypse,” but it remains to be seen if he would return to the MCU, as he also became the face of Moon Knight in the Disney+ series. If he does return, it wouldn’t be the first time that Isaac and Driver have shared the screen together.

They first worked together in 2013’s “Inside Llewyn Davis.” Isaac then played Resistance pilot Poe Dameron for all three movies in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy; however, he only shared scenes with Driver in “The Force Awakens.”

A great movie has the ability to transport you to a place beyond our present. Sometimes it’s to places beyond our wildest imaginations. A great movie should make you feel something. Maybe it’s a powerful monologue or a visceral image. Or, perhaps the perfect song at the perfect moment. It’s these songs that, when you hear them outside the film, transport you back. It’s a mark of something special.

Throughout Hollywood history, we have been inundated by some of the greatest songs from movie soundtracks. Thematically perfect or perfectly situated within a moment, these songs have stuck with us for generations. There are certainly countless songs that could join this list, but these 20 represent a wide spectrum of styles, eras, and film genres. Though your favorite may have missed the list, let’s celebrate these other monumental hits.

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“Take My Breath Away” by Berlin

‘Top Gun’ (1986)

Very few pop songs operate as a recurring musical theme in a film. Oftentimes, you hear them once at the top of the movie, during the closing credits, or within the film itself. Then there was “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin. Not only did you hear it within the film, but it then served as the romantic anchor for the story. It was such a powerful song that producers actually went back and reshot a steamy bedroom scene in silhouette between Maverick (Tom Cruise) and Charlie (Kelly McGillis) just to provide a visual worthy of the song’s emotional weight. The iconic 1986 film Top Gun, Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Cruise), a reckless, cocky Navy fighter pilot who attends the elite TOPGUN school. He must compete to be the best, overcome personal tragedy, and learn the value of teamwork in a celebration of military aviation. Top Gun was a high-octane action film, and the song provided a much-needed emotional balance.

“Take My Breath Away” is a dreamy synthesizer-driven track with aching vocals by Terri Nunn, providing an anthem that went well beyond the film. It helped represent the decade. There’s a calming sense of intimacy innate to the track. The song has a weightlessness to it that counterbalances some of the bigger, more bombastic tracks from the film, including “Danger Zone.” Nunn’s breathy, restrained delivery evokes a deep yearning that, when the song is underscored, four times, in fact, it alerts the audience to the importance of the intimacy. The track transcended the film to become a massive cultural phenomenon. Written by Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whitlock, it went on to win both the Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song in 1986. From a pop perspective, “Take My Breath Away” helped propel the Top Gun soundtrack to sell over 9 million copies, firmly cementing the film’s legacy in the MTV-era history.

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“Let the River Run” by Carly Simon

‘Working Girl’ (1988)

If you were to pinpoint a singular decade of the best soundtrack songs, it very well might be the 1980s. Many filmmakers sought out surefire hits to help define their films; “Let the River Run” by Carly Simon not only set the tone for Working Girl, it was a pure anthem. The film, directed by Mike Nichols, tells the story of Tess McGill (Melanie Griffith), a sharp Staten Island secretary, who takes revenge on her conniving boss, Katharine Parker (Sigourney Weaver), by impersonating her. After pitching a major corporate merger to an investment broker using her boss’s stolen ideas, she falls in love with Jack Trainer (Harrison Ford), saves the deal, and exposes her boss’s fraud. “Let the River Run” opens the film as a triumphant anchor, with the song playing over the opening credits while the Staten Island Ferry approaches the Manhattan skyline.

The opening sequence, with its accompanying song, serves as an integral opus. It sets a heroic, bustling tone that frames New York City as a place of endless possibility for our protagonist. If Tess had a Walkman, she would be playing the song on her way into the office, determined to tackle the day with confidence. The lyrics are an anthem for empowerment. It champions the film’s feminist themes. Working Girl is truly about a dreamer who sets out to “wake the nation.” The song comes two more times, including a choral version that is equally empowering. The track won the Oscar, Golden Globe, and Grammy for Best Original Song. It was the first time in history that a single artist wrote, composed, and performed a song that won all three awards. Simon has had a plethora of hits and other movie songs, but “Let the River Run” is the most definitive.

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“9 to 5” by Dolly Parton

‘9 to 5’ (1980)

It all begins with the shuffling of the nails for an iconic track to be born. When Dolly Parton is a part of your project, it’s inevitable that she’d contribute music to it. In the case of 9 to 5, the title not only reflected the film, but it also stood proudly on its own as a pop country crossover. In the classic workplace comedy, three female office workers, Judy Bernly (Jane Fonda), Violet Newstead (Lily Tomlin), and Doralee Rhodes (Parton), who plot revenge against their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot boss, Franklin Hart (Dabney Coleman). “9 to 5” pairs perfectly with the film an upbeat, irresistible melody with deeply relatable, working-class lyrics. The moment it plays alongside the street’s bustle, the mood is set.

The song captures the daily grind of horrible bosses, lack of appreciation, and being “just a step on the boss man’s ladder”. Yet, pouring a “cup of ambition” and taking care of business give workers a sense of dignity and ownership, as the trio so triumphantly do. Dealing with serious themes, the tune provides a fusion of a joyful, toe-tapping rhythm with empowering sentiments, just like the film. The anthem reflects what were once radical themes— systemic office reforms like flexible hours, job sharing, and on-site daycare. Thanks to the film and the song, these revolutionary ideas became the norm. It also helped prove that female-led films had massive commercial appeal. “9 to 5” remains a steadfast Parton hit that’s synonymous with the film.

17

“Diamonds Are Forever” by Shirley Bassey

‘Diamonds Are Forever’ (1971)

Now, before the James Bond loyalists come for this list, this slot could have gone a plethora of ways, as many Bond anthems are great. We could have gone to the modern era, but those songs ran because of the classics. Then there are a handful of great artists who sang the tracks in the heyday, but no one did it quite like Shirley Bassey, the only artist to have multiple Bond songs. As infamous as “Goldfinger” is, her biggest and best is “Diamonds Are Forever.” In the film Diamonds Are Forever, James Bond (Sean Connery) goes undercover as a diamond smuggler to uncover a ring controlled by his nemesis, Ernst Stavro Blofeld (Charles Gray). He discovers Blofeld is stockpiling the gems in Las Vegas to build a space-based laser weapon, which he plans to use to blackmail the world’s nuclear superpowers. The titular track explores themes of emotional detachment, materialism, and cynical romanticism.

“Diamonds Are Forever” remains the standout Bond single thanks to powerhouse vocals, John Barry’s dramatic orchestration, and Don Black’s sly, sultry lyrics. The song perfectly balances seductive innuendo with the sleek, high-stakes glamour of the 007 franchise. The song evokes a sexy jazz feel that’s perfectly dangerous and seductive. The central theme with the lyric “Diamonds are forever, but men are mere mortals who are not worth going to your grave for” offers a cold, material, and unapologetically atmospheric edge. While the song may be big, brassy, and dramatic, with Bassey at the helm of the risqué, sexual innuendos, it’s pure camp, matching the shift in the direction of the franchise. The song has left a lasting legacy, as artists like Sabrina Carpenter have reimagined it as a new metaphor. It’s a transcendent song that links the necessity of a theme song to the franchise.

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“Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler

‘Beaches’ (1988)

Very few power ballads pack such an emotional gut punch as “Wind Beneath My Wings.” Especially in the context of the film Beaches. The 1988 film follows the decades-long, tumultuous friendship between brassy Bronx performer C.C. Bloom (Bette Midler) and wealthy San Francisco lawyer Hillary Whitney (Barbara Hershey). Despite clashing personalities and jealousies, they remain deeply bonded through life, love, and tragedy, culminating in a poignant final summer at the beach as Hillary faces a terminal illness. Directed by Garry Marshall, Beaches is a tearjerker, made more emotional when you hear the star belt out the infamous track. While the ballad serves as the primary musical theme for CC and Hillary’s lifelong friendship, it is used purposefully rather than being played repeatedly.

The song is played during the montage in the final act as the two main characters spend meaningful time together. It’s when you completely empty your tissue box. The song serves as the emotional anchor that reframes their relationship by acknowledging that Hillary was the one who enabled CC to shine, acting as the “wind” beneath her wings so she could “fly higher than an eagle.” The song has been a touchstone for emotional support between friends, family, and everyone in between. When it comes back for the closing credits, you’re left with a lasting impression, tears still flowing. Though the song had been previously written and was not for the film, it won Grammy Awards for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1990.

15

“Rainbow Connection” by Jim Henson

‘The Muppet Movie’ (1979)

“Why are there so many songs about rainbows and what’s on the other side?” Very few songs begin so simply and profoundly. And it comes from one of the most iconic characters: Kermit the Frog. In The Muppet Movie, Kermit leaves his Florida swamp for Hollywood after a talent agent spots his potential. Along the way, he meets other aspiring performers, including Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy, and Gonzo. Together, they are chased by Doc Hopper (Charles Durning), a ruthless restaurateur wanting Kermit as a mascot for his fried frog legs. “Rainbow Connection” serves as the ultimate “I want” song. The song emotionally establishes Kermit as an optimistic dreamer, driving his motivation to leave the swamp and seek a larger purpose in Hollywood.

Co-written by Paul Williams and Kenneth Ascher, “Rainbow Connection” effortlessly encapsulates the movie’s overarching message: the power of believing in yourself, following your dreams, and embracing a creative, welcoming community. It’s why the song has resonated with so many individuals across generations. “Rainbow Connection” is a masterpiece of lyricism, brilliantly evoking childlike wonder with profound philosophical depth. The song uses a stripped-down musical arrangement, relying heavily on a sweet, comforting banjo and gentle, sweeping strings that enhance its emotional intimacy. It earned The Muppets their first Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song and has since been covered by everyone from Willie Nelson and Kacey Musgraves to Gwen Stefani.

14

“The Man That Got Away” by Judy Garland

‘A Star Is Born’ (1954)

It takes a very special individual to be deemed the voice of a generation, but when it comes to Hollywood actresses, that honor is deservingly bestowed upon Judy Garland. In one of two entries on this list comes the Garland classic “The Man That Got Away” from A Star Is Born. In the second iteration of the film, a fading alcoholic movie star, Norman Maine (James Mason), discovers and promotes a talented young singer, Esther Blodgett (Garland). As Esther’s career skyrockets under the stage name “Vicki Lester” and they fall in love, Norman’s self-destruction and career downfall drive a wedge between their lives. The song arrives early in the film when Norman tracks down Esther at an after-hours jazz club. He stands out of sight in the shadows and watches her sing informally with her musicians. As a storytelling device, it showcases the raw talent of a star that’s born.

The song, with music by Harold Arlen and lyrics by Ira Gershwin, serves as a micro-adaptation that mirrors the impending tragedy of the lovers’ relationship and officially establishes music as a driving force in the franchise’s narrative. It operates as a narrative turning point while providing one of the most infamous sequences in Hollywood history. Director George Cukor pushed for an agonizingly complex setup to achieve perfection, shooting it in numerous takes, and ultimately relying on an iconic, single-take sequence that ends with Garland singing directly to the camera. The song became Garland’s monumental career comeback that cemented her connection with her raw, vulnerable power. The visceral pain of heartbreak through a striking mix of moody, conversational lyrics and dramatic, swinging jazz melodies became a truly defining moment.

13

“Beauty and the Beast” by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson

‘Beauty and the Beast’ (1991)

This list could be filled with Disney tracks after Disney tracks. For fairness, we’re limiting it to one classic annd one from the Disney Animation Renaissance. The latter honor goes to “Beauty and the Beast” from Beauty and the Beast. In the film, a selfish prince (Robby Benson) is cursed by an enchantress into a hideous monster. To break the spell before an enchanted rose wilts, he must learn to love and be loved. He imprisons the inventor’s daughter, Belle (Paige O’Hara), who eventually teaches him compassion, ultimately transforming him and his servants back. But for that moment to arise, it needed a “tale as old as time.” In the story, Mrs. Potts (Angela Lansbury) sings the central love theme as the titular duo shares their iconic ballroom dance.

Beauty and the Beast is one of the greatest romantic fantasy films of all time, live action or animated. It’s this scene and this song that are pointed to. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, the lyrics explicitly describe how the couple learns to overlook differences and change one another for the better through a thoroughly timeless myth of inner beauty. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and helped make the movie the first animated film in history to be nominated for Best Picture. During this period in Disney animation history, the film’s pinnacle songs would receive a pop single release. The titular track was given to Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson, who made it a radio hit, earning chart success and Grammy wins and nominations in the process. Had it not been written and composed in the manner it had, it could have been just another cartoon song. Instead, it’s one of the most beloved Disney classics.

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“Flashdance…What a Feeling” by Irene Cara

‘Flashdance’ (1983)

What a feeling indeed! The titular track from Flashdance is strategically placed twice in the film, and both times it evokes the spirit of the story. The ‘80s classic tells the story of Alex Owens (Jennifer Beals), an 18-year-old working-class woman in Pittsburgh who spends her days as a steel mill welder and her nights dancing at a local club. Alex pursues her dream of becoming a professional ballerina while navigating a romantic relationship with her boss, Nick Hurley (Michael Nouri). Serving as a soaring anthem for the protagonist, “Flashdance…What a Feeling” represents the liberating feeling of being in control of one’s destiny. In turn, it operates as an anthemic theme of, against all odds, chasing one’s dreams. The film and song blew up so much that they became a pop culture phenomenon, launching fashion trends like leg warmers and leotards to replicate the moment.

A song for a genuine heroine, co-writer and singer Irene Cara ensured the lyrics came from Alex’s perspective, so when it plays at the beginning of the film, you’re engulfed in Alex’s journey immediately. When it returns during Alex’s famous, climactic dance audition in front of the repertory dance company board, it serves as the perfect bookend. It’s not only evocative of the film, but it also defines the era. The film used the song to set the pace for its fast-cut, music video-style sequences, which changed how Hollywood marketed youth-oriented movies in the 1980s. The song became a massive success on its own, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks. It was universally celebrated, ultimately winning the 1984 Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

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“Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees

‘Saturday Night Fever’ (1977)

There are some film soundtracks dedicated to a single artist. For Saturday Night Fever, that honor belongs to the Bee Gees. If there’s one song from the film that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the story, it’s none other than “Stayin’ Alive.” In the 1977 classic, Tony Manero (John Travolta) is a restless 19-year-old Italian-American in working-class Brooklyn. By day, he is trapped in a dead-end job at a paint store; on weekends, he escapes to a local disco where he reigns as the undisputed “king of the dance floor.” Beneath the iconic Bee Gees soundtrack and vibrant disco lights, the film is a coming-of-age urban tragedy. Played over the opening credits, “Stayin’ Alive” captures Tony as he struts through the streets of Brooklyn. And at that moment, a classic scene was born. The importance of the song and the scene stems from masking working-class hardship and urban struggle with swagger, survival, and disco escapism.

Despite being a dance anthem, the lyrics deal with the gritty reality of trying to stay afloat. It operates as an emotional undercurrent as to the importance of dance to the protagonist. The Bee Gees specifically designed the vocal harmonies and driving bassline to propel the groove. Not only did it energize the film, but it reshaped the disco genre on the real-life dance floors. The song comes in again during the venue’s loudspeaker when Tony and Stephanie (Karen Lynn Gorney) are officially announced as the winners of the 2001 Odyssey disco dance competition. Its inclusion serves as Tony’s triumph tune. The pulse of the song has moved beyond the film, becoming the CPR song, as its tempo perfectly aligns with the life-saving rhythm required. It’s an undeniable masterpiece.

A college basketball player who dreamed of one day playing professionally has died after she was involved in a rollover crash in southern California’s Cajon Pass.

Jhenéy Wallace, a rising sophomore at Victor Valley College, was pronounced dead at the scene on Wednesday, July 15, when authorities found the Hyundai Veloster she was traveling in had overturned and traveled down a steep, 80-foot embankment. She was 20.

“She was a great daughter,” Jhenéy’s mom, Tamara Wallace, told KTLA. “She was my best friend, my first-born. Always kept me smiling and encouraged me to do things. She was the best sister to her little sister and brother, very bubbly, always happy and loving.”

Tamara added, “She wanted so much out of life. I thank everyone who has reached out to me and for all their prayers and support. I just want to keep my daughter’s name alive.”

Related: College Basketball Player Emily Smith, 20, Dead After Hit-and-Run Accident

SUNY Potsdam women’s basketball guard Emily Smith died on Saturday, May 16, after she was struck by a vehicle in an alleged hit-and-run near campus, the school announced on Sunday, May 17. She was 20. Potsdam police arrested the alleged driver, Jakob Krise, Saturday morning, according to North Country Now. Krise, 18, was reportedly driving […]

Tamara told the outlet that she had been calling Jhenéy in the time after the accident, but her daughter was not picking up. Eventually, an officer on the scene answered the phone and told her what had happened.

Jhenéy was one of three people found inside the car, which was smoking after the crash, eyewitnesses told Victor Valley Newsgroup. The other two individuals, identified as a friend of Jhenéy’s and the friend’s mother, were taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Though details around the crash have not been released, it is not believed that Jhenéy was driving the car.

Jhenéy was also a member of her school’s volleyball team and she aspired to one day play in the WNBA, her mom told KTLA.

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Related: College Basketball Player Andre Bell Killed in Nashville Highway Shooting

Fisk University basketball player Andre Bell died on Sunday, January 11, in a shooting that erupted on a Tennessee highway. Bell, 20, was a sophomore at the school and studied business administration, the Nashville university said in a statement. Bell, originally from Jackson, Tennessee, died at Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Monday, January 12, Metropolitan […]

“Our Victor Valley College Women’s Basketball family continues to mourn the loss of one of our own, Jhenéy Wallace,” her team said in a statement via Instagram on Thursday, July 16. “Jhenéy was more than a teammate — she was a friend, a daughter, a sister, cousin, granddaughter, and a cherished member of our Ram family whose impact will never be forgotten.”

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Jhenéy started one game for the Rams in 2025-26, averaging 2.5 points and 4.1 minutes per game.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help Jhenéy’s family “ease the financial burden during this incredibly difficult time,” according to the description. The page has raised more than $16,000 as of Monday, July 20, as it sought to give her “the beautiful homegoing service she deserves.”

The 15 Freeway that runs through the Cajon Pass is a notoriously dangerous stretch due to its blind spots and steep grades. In 2022, officials reported 48 traffic deaths along the roadway, according to the Daily Mail.

It may be the middle of summer, but even in the heat, not everyone is a fan of showing off their legs. Shorts can sometimes feel too revealing or laid-back, while skirts and dresses might come off as too formal. So, what’s the solution for a fashionista over 50? Well, judging from Mary Steenburgen‘s recent outfit, it’s a sleek pair of lightweight, straight-leg trousers.

The 73-year-old actress wore the style in New York City while promoting her new Apple TV movie, The Dink. Steenburgen plays pickleball in the film, but instead of leaning into the sporty theme, the actress went pretty, polished and timeless, pairing ankle-length black pants with a blue short-sleeved sweater and black ballet flats. The versatile bottoms instantly made our must-have list, and while the brand behind the star’s pick is unknown, we found a worthy lookalike on Amazon — and it’s just $30.

Get the Bmjl Business Casual Slacks for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Bmjl Business Casual Slacks have the same luxe look as Steenburgen’s pair, but it’s possible the budget-friendly find is even more comfortable. Made of a nylon-spandex blend, the high-waisted trousers are actually yoga pants in disguise; they’re essentially pull-ons with an elastic waist and a faux fly. The back pockets are decorative, but the two on the side are fully functional with more than enough room to hold the essentials.

Related: Hannah Waddingham‘s ‘Heatwave Outfit‘ Hack Includes This Top Style

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Hannah Waddingham is definitely booked and busy. After hopping around the U.K., making appearances at F1’s British Grand Prix and multiple Wimbledon matches, the 51-year-0ld actress stepped out in New York City, ready to promote her new Prime show, Ride or Die. That schedule alone is enough to make Us sweat, but even in the humid […]

What makes these pants extra special are all the tiny details. The wide waistband secretly smooths and provides tummy control, while the slits at the bottom hem add slight movement and breathability in the heat. Plus, the four-way stretch fabric doesn’t wrinkle, so even if you wear the pants during a long commute or a seemingly endless workday, they won’t look crumpled when you stand up.

Amazon shoppers call the Bmjl pants “incredibly comfortable,” noting they’re perfect for the office, everyday activities or even wearing in place of typical loungewear.

“The fabric is lightweight, soft and has just the right amount of stretch, making them great for everything from running errands to lounging around the house,” one person wrote. “The high-rise waistband stays in place without digging in, and the relaxed fit is flattering while still looking put-together. I also appreciate the pockets — they’re deep enough to hold my phone and keys without feeling bulky.”

Another reviewer rated this pick five stars since the “stretch knit pants can move effortlessly between business and casual.”

“What I love most about these pants is that the wide waistband doesn’t dig in, and it doesn’t roll up,” they added. “I feel like they smooth my tummy and give me a nice silhouette. I also like the length; these sit at the ankle and elongate my legs.”

Steenburgen showed off an elite styling choice by wearing her black pants with a lightweight knit. And if you ask Us, her sleek outfit combo works year-round, even on hot summer days. However, the same bottoms can be paired with a casual tee, ruffled tank, sweatshirt, button-down shirt and more.

If you’re not comfortable showing off your legs, need something more polished than shorts or want pants you can wear anytime, anywhere and at every age, these Bmjl bottoms are it. Shop the style in black for a Steenburgen-inspired look or choose the beige or brown colors, which are just as versatile.

Get the Bmjl Business Casual Slacks for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are reportedly embracing married life by prioritizing both family and time together.

According to insiders, the couple’s pet dog is enjoying a luxury lifestyle complete with premium care and constant attention.

The reports come weeks after their star-studded wedding, where guests were said to be captivated by Taylor Swift’s bridal look and the couple’s commitment to one another.

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Swift and Kelce are reportedly extending their luxury lifestyle to the newest member of their household, a beloved pet dog that insiders say is receiving first-class treatment.

According to a source who spoke to Star Magazine, the couple’s canine enjoys premium care, including specially prepared meals made from human-grade ingredients and private-jet travel whenever the pair are on the move.

Unlike most pets, the dog reportedly accompanies Swift and Kelce in the cabin rather than “going under the plane like most civilian dogs have to.”

The latest claims come after Kelce was photographed arriving at an airport in Palm Beach, Florida, with the couple’s dog by his side, fueling interest in their life as newlyweds.

Insiders also say the pair have assembled a dedicated support system to help care for their pets whenever their demanding schedules keep them occupied.

The arrangement reportedly includes trusted caregivers who can travel with them when necessary to ensure the animals receive constant attention.

As a result, “people joke that the animals have a better lifestyle than most people because they have the best of everything and they are showered with attention.”

The Puppy Ownership Marked A Major Milestone For The Couple

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Sources describe the decision to get a dog together as an important milestone in Swift and Kelce’s relationship.

Before welcoming the pet, the couple reportedly spent considerable time “before they did it because they wanted to make sure they were ready for that level of commitment.”

Swift was already well known for her affection toward animals, having long shared her life with her three famous cats, Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson and Benjamin Button, before beginning her relationship with the Kansas City Chiefs star in 2023.

While caring for a dog has required more time and effort than looking after cats, those close to the couple say they have embraced the experience.

Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Reportedly Grew Closer After Welcoming A Puppy

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Swift and Kelce’s relationship has only gotten stronger since becoming dog parents, with an insider noting how much it deepened their bond.

According to the source, “caring for their pup has really reinforced what a great team they are and made their bond that much deeper.”

While Swift and Kelce have kept details about their pet largely private, including its name and how it joined the family, Jason Kelce previously confirmed the dog’s existence during an appearance on the “Fitz & Whit” podcast in 2025.

During the conversation with hosts Ryan Fitzpatrick and Andrew Whitworth, the former Philadelphia Eagles star recalled that his brother had recently purchased expensive green velvet couches before bringing home the puppy.

According to Jason, the new pet wasted little time making its mark on the furniture, chewing a hole in the back of one of the couches shortly after arriving.

The Singer Refuses To Let Distance Come Between Her and Travis Kelce

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That commitment reportedly extends beyond pet ownership. Sources say Swift is determined to prioritize her marriage and spend as much time as possible with Kelce as he prepares for another NFL season with the Chiefs.

With training camp approaching, the tight end is expected to spend significant time in Missouri, but insiders claim the “Karma” singer has little interest in maintaining a long-distance marriage.

According to a report, both Swift and Kelce have seen “too many Hollywood couples drift apart because work kept them in different places. Taylor has no intention of letting that happen to them. If Travis has to be in Missouri, she’ll be there too.”

The arrangement is said to be easier for Swift because of the flexibility that comes with her career. Unlike a traditional work schedule, the singer can write music, oversee business projects, and manage many professional commitments from different locations.

Camille Kostek Says Taylor Swift Looked Like A ‘Real-Life Princess’ At Her Wedding

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Swift and Kelce’s devotion to each other was on full display at their July 3 wedding, where the singer’s bridal style left a lasting impression on guests.

Model Camille Kostek recently reflected on the ceremony while speaking with People Magazine at Sports Illustrated’s Beyond the Pitch event, describing the singer’s custom Dior wedding gown in glowing terms.

“She literally was like a real-life princess in her custom Dior,” Kostek said of Swift’s look on the couple’s special day.

Although many details from the high-profile wedding have remained private, the event reportedly drew a guest list of around 1,000 attendees. Swift and Kelce both wore custom Christian Dior Haute Couture designs created by the fashion house’s creative director, Jonathan Anderson.

The ceremony also featured several personal touches. Swift’s brother, Austin Swift, stood beside her as her man of honor, while Kelce chose his older brother, Jason Kelce, to serve as his best man. Actor Adam Sandler reportedly officiated the celebration, helping mark the beginning of the couple’s new chapter as husband and wife.

Anime is much more than just cartoons. It has given birth to timeless series like One Piece, Dragon Ball Z, and Naruto — shows that have become not only staples of Japanese animation but also global phenomena. While these legacy titles continue to define the medium, the past two decades have brought in a new generation of anime that pushes storytelling and artistry even further.

Whether it’s a lighthearted opposites-attract romance, a pair of children embarking on an unforgettable fantasy adventure, or a tale of revenge gone wrong, anime commits fully to its ideas and executes them with confidence. In the spirit of these modern additions, here are the most perfect anime of the last 20 years, ranked.

10

‘Violet Evergarden’ (2018)

Image via Kyoto Animation

Violet Evergarden finds humanity in the aftermath of war. After surviving the devastating Great War, former child soldier Violet Evergarden (Yui Ishikawa) struggles to understand the final words spoken to her by the person she cherished most. Taking a job as an Auto Memory Doll at CH Postal Services, she writes heartfelt letters that give voice to the emotions others struggle to express.

Violet Evergarden is a masterpiece in exploring the power of human emotion. At the beginning of the series, the detached Violet cannot understand even the simplest expressions of love. But through the tender art of letter writing, the former “killing machine” gradually learns that being human is not defined by her past actions, but by her capacity to empathize with others.

9

‘Made in Abyss’ (2017–2022)

Image via Kinema Citrus

Made in Abyss is an anime homage to eldritch horror. Orphaned cave raider Riko (Miyu Tomita) dreams of following in the footsteps of her legendary mother, the White Whistle Lyza, who vanished deep within the mysterious Abyss. After discovering Reg (Mariya Ise), an amnesiac robot boy seemingly born from the chasm’s depths, the two pack their bags for a descent of a lifetime.

Reminiscent of fantasy adventures like His Dark Materials, Made in Abyss isn’t fooled by its cutesy, lighthearted visuals. The anime introduces a merciless realm with creatures waiting to kill Riko and Reg. In an abyss that generations of seasoned explorers have failed to conquer, it may be the courage and curiosity of two children that finally uncover its deepest secrets.

8

‘Kaguya-sama: Love Is War’ (2019–2023)

Image via A-1 Pictures

Never put your heart on your sleeve in Kaguya-sama: Love Is War. At the prestigious Shuciin Academy, brilliant student council president Miyuki Shirogane (Makoto Furukawa) and wealthy vice president Kaguya Shinomiya (Aoi Koga) are secretly in love with each other. The problem is that they’re too proud to admit their feelings — the first to do so loses.

In this romantic battlefield, Miyuki and Kaguya engage in Sherlockian psychological mind games, each trying to force the other into making the first romantic confession. It’s a delightfully cheesy opposites-attract affair. But beneath all the ridiculous schemes, the two genuinely understand each other in ways no one else can, leading to some of the anime’s most heartfelt moments amid its nonstop running gags.

7

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Image via Madhouse

Hunter x Hunter is the essential coming-of-age anime. After learning that his father, Ging, is not dead but a legendary Hunter, 12-year-old Gon Freecss leaves Whale Island to follow in his footsteps. To become a licensed Hunter. Gon must survive the notoriously deadly Hunter Examination, where he faces dangerous trials and finds the father who abandoned him.

Hunter × Hunter starts like a goofy, kid-friendly adventure, but that’s just a facade. As Gon and his friends grow closer throughout their journey, their friendship is tested by brutal psychological and emotional trials. Its battle system is one of anime’s most creative, rewarding strategies and clever use of abilities over raw power. You never know which character—especially the seemingly weaker ones—will outsmart even the deadliest monsters.

6

‘Vinland Saga’ (2019–2023)

Image via Netflix

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Vinland Saga sets off with a story of revenge. After witnessing the murder of his legendary father, Thorfinn (Yūto Uemura) dedicates his life to avenging him by killing the cunning Viking mercenary Askeladd (Naoya Uchida). Forced to fight alongside the very man he despises, Thorfinn earns the right to challenge him through honorable duels, all while becoming consumed by the brutal realities of war.

Despite being a Japanese anime, Vinland Saga surprises audiences with its accuracy to 11th-century Viking culture, as well as the politics surrounding the Danish invasion of England. Historical accuracy, from naval warfare to battle tactics aside, Vinland Saga is a testament to what it means to be a Viking warrior, arguing that true strength has more to do with restraining your power than unleashing it mercilessly.

5

‘Mob Psycho 100’ (2016–2022)

Image via Bones

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You don’t want to mess with Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama (Shigeo Kageyama) in Mob Psycho 100. Mob may be one of the world’s most powerful psychics, but all the awkward middle schooler really wants is a normal life. When he’s not attending classes, he’s busy exorcising spirits and battling dangerous espers. But first, he needs to get his powers and emotions in check.

With so much anime centered on the pursuit of becoming stronger, Mob Psycho 100 is refreshing for going in the opposite direction. All Mob wants is to live like an ordinary middle schooler — a surprisingly relatable goal. With the guidance of his eccentric spiritual mentor, Reigen (Ryōma Baba), Mob gradually learns to accept both his extraordinary powers and himself, turning the series into a heartfelt story about self-acceptance.

4

‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ (2023–Present)

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End believes the story doesn’t end when the Demon King is defeated. After a ten-year quest comes to an end, the legendary mage Frieren (Atsumi Tanezaki) parts ways with her companions and resumes her solitary life. But as the centuries pass and her human friends grow old, she ruminates on a past life long gone.

Most fantasy stories end once the ultimate evil has been defeated. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End instead asks what comes after. What does a hero do when there’s no great enemy left to overcome? For someone with a lifespan as long as Frieren’s, the answer can be surprisingly painful. Through her journey with her apprentice Fern (Kana Ichinose), the anime becomes a heartfelt reflection on living in the present and cherishing the people around you before they’re gone.

3

‘Steins;Gate’ (2011)

Image via White Fox

Steins;Gate introduces one of the most unconventional time machines in sci-fi: a modified microwave. It’s all thanks to self-proclaimed mad scientist Rintarou Okabe (Mamoru Miyano) and his friends. But when a seemingly harmless experiment accidentally alters the timeline, the group finds themselves facing deadly consequences and attracting the attention of the powerful organization SERN.

Despite its cartoonish aesthetic, Steins;Gate takes time travel seriously. The story draws on real scientific concepts like the butterfly effect, the many-worlds interpretation, and black hole theory, while weaving in internet culture and urban legends that make its world feel surprisingly grounded. Beyond the science, the anime delivers a deeply human story about grief, regret, and the realization that the past cannot be rewritten without consequences.

2

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Image via Wit Studio

In Attack on Titan, ten-year-old Eren Jaeger (Yuki Kaji) watches helplessly as Titans devour his mother after the Colossal Titan breaches Wall Maria. Consumed by grief and rage, he vows to exterminate every last Titan. Alongside his childhood friends, Eren joins the elite Survey Corps to fight for humanity’s survival and reclaim the freedom that lies beyond the walls.

It’s nearly impossible to determine who the true heroes and villains are in Attack on Titan, and that’s exactly what makes the series so rousing. Every side believes it’s fighting for justice, but whether that justice is righteous or misguided is left for the audience to decide. As the story evolves, it becomes clear that the greatest monsters aren’t always the Titans — they can be humans, too.

Image via Bones

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood begins after a forbidden alchemy experiment goes horribly wrong. In a desperate attempt to bring their late mother back to life, brothers Edward (Romi Park) and Alphonse Elric (Vic Mignogna) pay a devastating price: Edward loses an arm and a leg, while Alphonse loses his entire body. Determined to reclaim what they lost, the brothers set out in search of the legendary Philosopher’s Stone.

As their journey unfolds, viewers witness just how far Edward and Alphonse are willing to go to get their bodies back. While the brothers seek the Philosopher’s Stone for personal reasons, others pursue it for immortality or limitless power. That moral conflict makes every step of their journey more gripping, ultimately testing their moral compass.

General Hospital 2-Week Spoilers for July 20 – 31, 2026 kick off July 20th Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) back from his father and son trip with Danny Morgan (Asher Jared Antonyzyn) and he’s dropping bombshells on his friends and family that leave them reeling. Also, Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros) explodes on her new man.

Also, during the two weeks of July 20th through the 31st, we’re going to get another new guy in town. More on Tristan Roberts (Dean Geyer), the hot new doctor, Britt Westbourne’s (Kelly Thiebaud) fate at GH is revealed, and what Drew Cain (Cameron Mathison) does next now that he can move around. All this and so much more.

General Hospital Spoilers: Carly Shaken and Willow Oversteps

Starting on Monday, July 20th, we’ve got Carly Corinthos (Laura Wright) rattled. This may be about Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart) swiping that black box from Wyndemere. And Willow Tait (Katelyn MacMullen) realizes something unsettling and strangely she asks Harrison Chase (Josh Swickard) this week if he would take a trip with her to DC. No way is Brook Lynn Quartermaine (Amanda Setton) going to sign on for that.

We have Valentin standing his ground on Monday and it may be about Lulu Spencer (Alexa Havins Bruening) and Charlotte Cassadine (Bluesy Burke) and Nina explodes and calls Jack Brennan (Chris McKenna) a disgusting pig. And it looks like this might be right after Nina and Jack do the deed.

GH Spoilers: Molly Turns to Laura

So, hopefully he wasn’t a pig in the bedroom, but we’ll see. Molly Lansing-Davis (Kristen Vaganos) tells Laura Collins (Genie Francis) that she needs her help and this may be about the Sidwell case that Molly is prosecuting. And Lulu tells Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) and Rick that Rocco Falconeri (Finn Carr) could be in serious trouble.

And then Lulu confesses that Jason didn’t shoot Ross Cullum (Andrew Hawkes) because Rocco did it. Detective Joe Fitzpatrick (Jonathan Bennett) asked Ezra Boyle (Daniel Cosgrove) if he’s got anything to hide when he’s up at the PCPD. He may also get grilled about Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota), who was a known supporter of Ezra’s. And Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) says yes to something, but asks, “What is the catch?” So, this may be her and Cody Bell (Josh Kelly) chatting down at the stables.

General Hospital: Jason’s Return and Major Bombshells

Then on Tuesday, July 21st, Carly keeps a secret from Valentin. Could be about Sonny. And Anna Devane (Finola Hughes) is back up at the PCPD. She’s taking back her role as police commissioner. Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) should be happy about that. And somebody has good news for Sonny. And it might be Brick (Stephen A. Smith) with dirt on Valentin. Or Sonny may find out that Jason is back in town. Dante gives Lulu some unwelcome advice.

I think Dante is going to tell his ex-wife that she needs to change her tactics with Valentin and Charlotte before things take a turn for the worse and Lulu is even more miserable. Britt and Tristan have another run-in. Of course, Britt’s still salty that he got her room at Bobbie’s. I actually really enjoyed Tristan clapping back at her and I’m getting a whole vibe between them.

GH Spoilers: Valentin Hatches a Plan

Then on Wednesday, July 22nd, we have Michael Corinthos (Rory Gibson) off guard by something and Valentin is explaining his plan. And this may be talking to Carly about how to best leverage the black box that he stole. Also, Britt gets a dose of tough love. Could be from family, but also she’s up at General Hospital this week and I think she’s the one that Stella and Elizabeth Webber (Rebecca Herbst) are meeting with.

So, Britt might get her job back, but if she does, I think it’s going to come with pretty harsh terms and conditions. So we’ll see. Portia Robinson (Brook Kerr) stuns Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner). This could be with a baby name suggestion. We know that Marshall Ashford (Robert Gossett) is back soon, so Portia might want to honor Curtis’s dad and may name their son after Marshall. I think that would be really sweet. Jack warns Anna. Could be about Valentin. Could be a catch up on all the stuff that’s going on in Port Charles while she was gone.

General Hospital Spoilers: Nina’s Crazy Idea

Then on Thursday, July 23rd, Nina has a wild idea. Could be some desperate suggestion to deal with Drew. And Sonny has a heartfelt talk with Rocco. Now that Lulu told Sonny that Rocco shot Ross Cullum, we could see Sonny reassuring him. We also know Jason soon advises Rocco to put the shooting behind him. Plus, Michael and Alexis Davis (Nancy Lee Grahn) compare notes. Could be about Drew and Willow. Anna makes Chase an offer.

General Hospital summer spoilers say that a PCPD shakeup gives Chase a chance to restore his professional reputation. And I’m guessing the shakeup is the transition from Dante back to Anna as police commissioner. She may not agree with his suspension that Justine Turner (Nazneen Contractor) pushed for. Also, Laura has some intel for Dante, and this could be about Sidwell. Also, this week, Valentin pays Laura a visit at her mayoral office. We know that Valentin’s going to ask Laura to smooth things over between him and Lulu, where Charlotte is concerned. Laura agrees to help, but demands a price from Valentin.

GH Spoilers: Jason Faces the Music

Friday, July 24th, we got Jason and Danny coming home to Port Charles. I suspect that what happened was they brought Steve Burton back from his break early because they wanted Jason’s return to coincide with the 16,000th episode of GH. But I think Burton wasn’t quite done with his break. So, I think he showed up to film this and then this mysterious out of town trip so that he could go back and do what he needed to do and then return to actually start properly filming again.

Can’t wait to see Britt’s reaction to Jason’s return. He didn’t contact her, left town again and knowing Britt was at her low point. That’s waving a red flag that Jason is not into her anymore. And Willow is challenged by Liz by the end of the week, I’m betting it’s about Drew because Willow probably doesn’t want anybody around him now that he’s coming out of locked-in and Willow ran out of meds.

General Hospital Spoilers: Drew Causes a Ruckus

GH Summer spoilers say Drew makes a splash and Willow’s good floors are ruined. And it sounds like Drew is about to make a literal mess of things as he finally gets back control of his body. Dante is testing Chase and I wonder if it’s to see if he’s been helping Willow or if he’s loyal to Brook Lynn and the PCPD.

Also, GH Summer spoiler says that Dante and Chase try to repair their friendship, but trouble is looming at the Quartermaine mansion that may threaten their reconciliation. Jack has to break bad news to somebody and I suspect he tells Nina that he searched every square inch of Wyndemere and couldn’t find the black box with the evidence they need against Drew. And in the end, GH Summer spoilers say that Jack does get what he needs, but it comes from a surprising source, and that may be Valentin.

Spoilers also confirm that Jack is going to pay a big price, which Nina would probably then need to repay to Jack. And I’m sure it’s not about finances. Lucas Jones (Van Hansis) tells someone he’s sorry. Maybe it’s Joe Fitzpatrick. I’m expecting more scenes with Lucas and Joe, but it could be talking to Liz for getting drunk and passing out on her couch. GH summer spoilers have Lucas leaning more on both Elizabeth and Ava Jerome (Maura West).

General Hospital: New Characters and Summer Storylines

Then the week of July 27th through the 31st. This is the week we’re going to get another new character on the scene hot on the heels of Dean Geyer’s debut as Dr. Tristan Roberts. This time it’s an actor as businessman Hudson whom we’ve heard from our leaker may be tied to some villains. And I do wonder if he might be an ally of jailed Sidwell. We’ll also see what Sonny and someone decide to do next because they know Rocco shot Ross Cullum and Jason covered for him. And we’re going to see Britt’s big reaction to Jason’s return and the drastic choices he’s making in his life going forward that probably don’t include her.

So, Sonny, Tracy, Britt, Carly, and others are all going to get visits from Jason as he tells them what he’s decided now that he’s finally a free man and wants to shake up things. Jack and Nina keep getting closer and may start a romantic relationship on the regular. Sonny’s going to keep trying to take Valentin down, but Carly may never forgive him.

GH Spoilers: Ethan & Ava Spark

We’re also going to see Ethan Lovett (Nathan Dean Parsons) and Ava heating up even though Lulu warned him not to go there. The warning might have just turned Ethan on more honestly. And plus, Ava, that actress Maura West, she could have chemistry with a palm tree. It’s amazing. However, whatever they start up isn’t going to last long because Ethan is on the run before much longer.

Drew is going to fully regain his mobility very soon, which is horrible news for Willow. Chase and Brook Lynn may finalize Ace’s adoption unless the truth about his real biological father comes out first. Anna may give Chase a shot to be a detective again. And Rocco is soon going to get closer to Scout Cain, who is being SORAS up to a teen as Kayden Brenna Tokarski debuts by the end of the month. And Cody struggles with James West’s (Gary James Fuller) brutal rejection of him.