Entertainment
The Word “Binge-Worthy” Is Overused, but These 10 Netflix Shows Actually Are
“Binge-worthy” has definitely become one of the most overused words in streaming, mainly used for trending shows that have a decent hook and a popular cast. A series is only truly bingeable when it creates a strong enough pull to make stopping feel like a real chore, whether through layered mysteries, cliffhangers, compelling characters, short episodes, or a constant sense that the next chapter might reveal something that inspires the urge to know what happens next.
Examples of Netflix gems that have actually earned the label binge-worthy are series like Black Mirror, which is an anthology knock-out that offers episode after episode of bleak takes on society’s collapse due to technological advancements, and the underrated fantasy series, Locke & Key, that keeps viewers engaged with its growing supernatural danger, chilling mystery, and family secrets. Both, along with the rest on this list, are prime, bingeable Netflix shows that have what it takes to wield the title and make it feel incredibly difficult not to watch just one more episode.
10
‘The Dragon Prince’ (2018–2024)
This Netflix animated series actually earns its status as a binge-worthy good time because it ensures every chapter offers new kingdoms, characters, secrets, and magical conflicts. The Dragon Prince follows the aftermath of King Harrow of Katolis’ betrayal and murder as his son, Ezran (Sasha Rojen), and stepson, Callum (Jack De Sena), flee with an elven assassin named Rayla (Paula Burrows).
The Dragon Prince wields imaginative storytelling capable of hooking anyone in. With its 20-minute-long episodes filled with wonder and ending on mini-cliffhangers, the series stands as the ideal addictive binge-watch. Fans have often praised The Dragon Prince for its vibrant characters, stunning pacing season after season, and epic fantasy that never grows dull. It’s honestly the perfect blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt moments that definitely warrants a good marathon viewing.
9
‘Mindhunter’ (2019)
Mindhunter may not seem like an easy binge based on its premise, but it is actually quite a bingeable series that wields a remarkable amount of momentum. Set in the late 1970s, the crime drama centers on FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they study the minds of serial killers and set the foundation for criminal profiling methods.
Mindhunter is no doubt unsettling at times, but its dialogue and the ever-growing suspense that it wields make it incredibly binge-worthy. It’s perfect for viewers who adore a good psychological watch and the study of killers—which can tend to be eerily engrossing for most. Each entry to the one-season wonder propels viewers to continue, fans finding it just as addictive as it is haunting. Mindhunter is genuinely any true-crime enthusiast’s dream watch, marking it as a true dynamite bingeing experience.
8
‘Disenchantment’ (2018–2023)
This animated fantasy may have a great, relaxed comedy feel to casually put on, but its larger fantasy narrative makes it a truly entertaining binge that steadily builds its mythology. Disenchantment focuses on the rebellious royal Princess Tiabeanie “Bean” (Abbi Jacobson), in the medieval kingdom of Dreamland, as she dreams of a simple party life rather than doing her actual princess duties.
While humorously satirizing fairy-tale tropes with modern sensibilities, ranging from celebrity parodies to political satire, Disenchantment delivers a rather clever adventure. It’s a witty watch with short episodes that often leave the protagonist and her friends in quite a few unusual predicaments, which tends to make viewing it quite addictive. Disenchantment is a Netflix gem that uses its combination of smart and slapstick jokes, alongside its ongoing plot threads, to keep its momentum going, making it the ideal binge-worthy experience.
7
‘Black Mirror’ (2011–Present)
Black Mirror is an amazing anthology series that delivers a cautionary tale with a shocking twist in most of its episodes. The series provides viewers with standalone episodes that explore twisted, often dystopian visions of technology and society.
Despite how bleak Black Mirror gets, it stands as the ultimate binge material because most viewers simply can’t help their morbid fascination with how each episode will turn out. Both its format and twists make for a continuously interesting viewing experience. The series is episode after episode of true creativity, wielding a structured chaos that audiences can’t help but continue to lock into. Black Mirror is definitely a brilliant approach to the haunting possibilities of the future, with a splash of whimsy, that keeps up its momentum in each episode, making it a great pick for this list.
6
‘The Queen’s Gambit’ (2020)
This amazing miniseries may have a short run time, but it stands as highly bingeable indeed. The Queen’s Gambit focuses on an orphaned chess prodigy named Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy) as she grows from a difficult childhood into the intensely competitive world of professional chess, all the while battling depression, loneliness, and addiction.
The Queen’s Gambit is definitely binge-worthy material due to its short and sweet format. It’s a limited series that is incredibly compelling: seven episodes of pure entertainment drama. From its evocative soundtrack and stylish 1960s setting to Taylor-Joy’s captivating performance, The Queen’s Gambit doesn’t just hold the title of a binge-worthy masterpiece that sparked a passion for chess; it’s also a near-perfect Netflix original that is a true masterclass in addictive television.
5
‘Dark’ (2017–2020)
Dark is a complex German sci-fi series that only seems to offer up answers that tend to spark many more questions. The sci-fi thriller TV series centers around the small town of Winden, where the disappearances of children begin to unlock the dark secrets spanning four estranged families.
Dark is pure entertainment, and for viewers who are looking to binge an elaborate puzzle of a series, it’s truly the perfect watch. Very few shows on the Netflix platform weaponize confusion as effectively as Dark does, sparking an interest in its audience as they work on deciphering the mystery that is the series. Dark is actually extremely binge-worthy because of its emotional intensity and labyrinthine plot. It’s an underrated sci-fi gem that sits among some of the best in the genre, and it may not be a truly passive viewing experience, but it stands as one extremely difficult to stop.
4
‘Locke & Key’ (2020–2022)
This terribly underrated fantasy series’ premise is practically built for binge-watching. Based on Joe Hill’s graphic novels, Locke & Key follows the Locke siblings, Tyler (Connor Jessup), Kinsey (Emilia Jones), and Bode (Jackson Robert Scott), who move with their mother, Nina (Darby Stanchfield), to their ancestral home, Keyhouse, after their father’s death.
Locke & Key may not seem like the thrilling mystery that it truly is, but once begun, it forces its viewers into an increasingly captivating web of danger, magic, family secrets, and mysterious keys. The series is so highly bingeable because each episode reveals one new key or escalates the fight against vicious foes, ending with an interesting discovery that compels audiences to watch just one more. Locke & Key is a three-season banger with 10 episodes, with each one practically inviting back-to-back viewing sessions and delivering a truly addictive blend of fantasy, suspense, and mystery.
3
‘Lucifer’ (2016–2021)
Lucifer may not have gotten its start on the iconic streaming platform Netflix, but it definitely found its home there as a binge-worthy success. The series centers on the literal devil, Lucifer Morningstar (Tom Ellis), who abandons hell for Los Angeles to run a nightclub, and eventually begins helping detective Chloe Decker (Lauren German) solve crimes.
Lucifer blends mythology and humor with procedural crime drama and delivers a rather thrilling supernatural ride. The series is a completed gem that’s proved to be exceptionally binge-worthy for both its charm and wit. Netflix’s revival after fans’ strong reaction to the series’ impending cancellation reflects how addictive a watch it truly is. Each episode of Lucifer offers a new case and progression in the highly angsty relationship between Chloe and Lucifer, making it almost impossible not to keep watching.
2
‘Teenage Bounty Hunters’ (2020)
This underrated teen drama series is surprisingly one of Netflix’s most entertaining series despite its abrupt cancelation. Teenage Bounty Hunters centers around fraternal twins Sterling (Maddie Phillips) and Blair Wesley (Anjelica Bette Fellini), who somehow find themselves in the world of bounty hunting after totaling their father’s truck.
Teenage Bounty Hunters is a genuinely appealing surprise with an addictively entertaining premise that makes it easy to binge in one sitting. The only true disappointment about the series is that it isn’t very well known and would never receive a second season. Despite this, Teenage Bounty Hunters earns its spot on this list because, by the end of all the character drama and laugh-out moments, most viewers want more. From the show’s fast-paced narrative to the chemistry between sisters, the series stands as a clever blend of crime caper and teen comedy that has given it a cult status as the ultimate binge.
1
‘Sense8’ (2015–2018)
Sense8 is the truest binge-worthy gem that simply doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. The sci-fi masterpiece follows eight strangers across the globe who find themselves mentally and emotionally connected, allowing them to share the most vulnerable parts of themselves as well as face eventual danger.
Sense8 is incredibly immersive with its fantastic storytelling, amazing characters, and unforgettable action. It’s a binge-worthy sci-fi great that wields pure ambition as it delivers a stunning premise that not only celebrates love and connection but also explores empathy and hope in the face of division. Sense8 has even earned itself a devoted following despite not being very well known, with fans loving it so much that they successfully campaigned for the Netflix banger to see a lengthy conclusion. Each episode offers viewers a worthy cliffhanger that drives them forward to seek more of the show’s addictive story, making it a unique and fantastic validator for the word binge-worthy.
Entertainment
90 Day Fiance’s Kenny Shares Update on Hannah’s Hospitalization
90 Day Fiancé star Kenny Niedermeier has shared a rare piece of good news amid his stepdaughter Hannah’s hospitalization.
Posting via his Instagram Story on Friday, July 17, Kenny, 63, uploaded a photo of Hannah, 13, from her hospital bed.
“She came out of the latest procedure very well,” he wrote on the image. “More updates soon. Thank you all again for all the care and kindness. We are grateful.”
Kenny has been by Hannah’s side throughout her health ordeal after she was rushed to the United States for urgent medical treatment from her home in Mexico.
Hannah’s father, Armando Niedermeier-Rubio, 37, revealed via Instagram on Tuesday, July 14, that Hannah’s condition had rapidly deteriorated before she was hospitalized.
In an emotional video, the TLC reality star detailed the moment he noticed his daughter’s face was “droopy — half of her face — and her lips and stuff.”
“Half of her body had no strength. So [I] immediately took her to the doctor,” he shared via Instagram on Tuesday. “When we got to the doctor, they did tell us her levels were normal in the sense of no high blood pressure. Which was strange to the doctor because she said usually with stuff like this, she knew with the symptoms that it was something with the brain, but it was strange given her age and also the fact that she didn’t have high blood pressure, which would be a huge symptom for that.”

Armando Niedermeier-Rubio and Hannah Courtesy of Armando Niedermeier-Rubio/Instagram
After being airlifted from Mexico to another hospital in Arizona, Hannah learned through a scan that there is some blood in her brain.
Kenny had been in Ohio for a family funeral when Hannah fell ill and immediately flew to Phoenix to be with his stepdaughter after receiving word of her diagnosis.
Meanwhile, Armando has struggled to get permission to get across the border to support his daughter.
“I went to the border. The hospital directly sensed the gravity of the situation, how Hannah was being airlifted to Phoenix ICU,” Armando who currently resides in Mexico, explained via Instagram on Thursday, July 16. “They sent all the necessary documents to the border. When I arrived at the border, I arrived with my documents as well.”
Despite the situation, Armando claimed he was forced to stay put but is now working with an immigration lawyer as he attempts to gain entry into the U.S.
“Never was the letter from the hospital reviewed and never were any of my documents asked of me — nothing was checked,” he claimed. “I was just told, ‘Nope, we do not do this here. … There’s no option for you,’ and on my way I went.”
Kenny and Armando appeared on season 2 of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way in 2019. The couple met in an online support group for gay fathers. After dating long distance, Kenny moved to Mexico to be with Armando. He became Hannah’s stepfather after Armando previously welcomed his daughter with his late wife.
Entertainment
13 Action Movies That Were So Good, Hollywood Spent Decades Copying Them
From epic fight scenes to high-octane thrills, action films are a favorite genre because of the exhilarating adrenaline rush they provide. Throughout cinematic history, action films have evolved not only with technological advancements but also through the stories they tell and the variables that define the genre.
Many filmmakers strive to execute perfection, but achieving that high bar can be exceedingly difficult, especially when you have near-flawless movies to compare to. When it comes to action thrillers, the films on this list are simply exceptional. So much so that they’ve become the blueprint others look to. From fight styles to historical thrillers, these movies’ influence is so rich that you can tell when future films pay tribute to them. It’s time to honor the brilliant action films that truly packed a bunch and went out with a bang.
1
‘Die Hard’ (1988)
While there will always be debate over whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie, there is no debate about how spectacular an action movie it is. Directed by John McTiernan, based on the novel Nothing Lasts Forever by Roderick Thorp, the film follows New York City police detective John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he becomes entangled in a terrorist plot to seize control of a Los Angeles skyscraper during a Christmas Eve party. Helping to redefine the genre, Die Hard became a beloved film thanks to the everyman character Willis played, especially against one of the most recognizable villains, Hans Gruber, portrayed by Alan Rickman.
The exciting thriller finds a strong balance of humor, suspense, and non-stop action that leads into the high-stakes situation. The action in Die Hard is primarily contained within the Nakatomi Plaza building, which adds an element of claustrophobic tension — there’s no big, wide, open field to fight in. Through smart pacing and genre-blending, Die Hard goes beyond the typical action flick, as bringing romance and comedy into things provide a fulfilling experience. In the ’90s, Die Hard became the blueprint for other heist-based action thrillers like Speed. Without Die Hard and its subsequent sequels, the landscape of action cinema may not be what it is today.
2
‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015)
It’s not the first, nor is it the last, but Mad Max: Fury Road is simply the best in the franchise. Part of the epic George Miller universe, Mad Max: Fury Road brought the iconic post-apocalyptic dystopian action film into the 21st-century universe of filmmaking. No doubt the first three films have a place in history, but looking back, especially compared to the new era of the franchise, they simply do not hold a candle to Mad Max: Fury Road. The fourth installment follows Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy), who joins forces with Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) against warlord Immortan (Hugh Keays-Byrne) and his army. Setting out on a large-spanning road battle in the desert wasteland where petrol and water are scarce commodities, Mad Max: Fury Road is a relentless thrill ride that keeps your heart racing from start to finish.
With a large majority of film fans calling it the best action movie of all time, there’s certainly no denying its expansive impact on blockbuster films today. Visually dynamic with compelling imagery, Mad Max: Fury Road is an example of a thriller that redefines how certain movies can get away with a character-driven story. Yes, there is a plot with clear and present objectives, but we come to the film for the explosive action and the visceral, immersive experience. Miller makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into this exuberant environment of dust, sand, and road rage. With eccentric characters and compelling themes, Mad Max: Fury Road is visual storytelling at its finest. Never feeling monotonous, the film left viewers craving more. Luckily, Miller delivered.
3
‘Seven Samurai’ (1954)
To earn the title of a masterpiece goes beyond the basics of the work itself — it must be evocative enough that its inspiration can point back to the piece. In the world of Japanese action films, all roads lead back to Seven Samurai. Directed by Akira Kurosawa, Seven Samurai transports audiences to the Sengoku period of Japanese history, telling the story of a village of desperate farmers who hire a samurai to combat bandits who return after the harvest to steal their crops. Tackling themes of honor, duty, class, and camaraderie, the action-packed film is rooted in a rich and profound human drama.
The epic unfolds in three parts — the recruitment, the training, and the battle against the bandits — yet never wavers from its mission to pursue ambitiously innovative storytelling. The film doesn’t solely rely on flashy fight scenes. They’re earned by tying them back to the emotional stakes and overall compassion you have for the samurai and the villagers. Even Kurosawa’s filmmaking techniques are profound for the time, providing an emotionally charged immersion.
We live in a time when remakes and reboots come naturally, so it should come as no shock that Seven Samurai has inspired not only Japanese films but also Western action flicks. The most resounding example was the Western remake, The Magnificent Seven. Though samurai were swapped out for gun-slinging cowboys, the heart of the action remained present. Without Seven Samurai, we likely wouldn’t even have epic team-up films like The Avengers. As I said, all roads lead back to it.
4
‘The Matrix’ (1999)
Just at the turn of the century, the entire realm of science fiction was reshaped thanks to the sheer brilliance of The Matrix. The brainchild of visionary directors, the Wachowskis, we entered the Matrix and, in a manner of speaking, we’ve never left. One of the most influential films for its story, filmmaking, and special effects, the groundbreaking movie follows computer hacker Neo (Keanu Reeves), who discovers that the reality he knows is actually an elaborate simulation created by intelligent machines. In turn, Neo learns that humans are unknowingly enslaved by these machines to serve as a power source in the real world. Led by Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), Neo joins a rebel group that all believe him to be “The One.” If he is what they believe him to be, then Neo is the prophesied individual who has the power to manipulate the Matrix and free humanity from its grip.
Science fiction at the forefront, with martial-arts-centric action woven in, the Wachowskis instilled a deep philosophical theme about the nature of reality, free will versus determinism, and the search for truth. Perhaps the moment we’ll all forever recall is the bullet-time visuals. No backbend has ever been more exciting and enthralling. Championing the blend of cyberpunk elements with modern philosophy through the guise of a sci-fi martial arts thriller, The Matrix was never too much. It was groundbreaking, and many films since have tried to replicate the massive cultural phenomenon it sparked. Did any film in the franchise reach the peak of the original? That’s up for debate, but there never would have been a franchise had this blueprint not been executed perfectly.
5
‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)
No single film influenced the superhero genre quite like The Dark Knight. The second entry in the Christopher Nolan Batman reboot, The Dark Knight follows vigilante Batman (Christian Bale), police lieutenant James Gordon (Gary Oldman), and district attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart) as they form an unlikely alliance to dismantle organized crime in Gotham City. Their plans are dismantled by the Joker (Heath Ledger), an anarchist mastermind who seeks to test Batman’s limits by pushing him to the brink of what he’ll do to save Gotham City from chaos. The Dark Knight changed cinema forever. From Ledger’s career-defining performance to the way plot and action should go hand in hand in superhero blockbusters, the boom in superhero films changed the moment Nolan introduced the film to the world.
A near-flawless superhero film, The Dark Knight garnered immense praise. Nolan’s dark vision for the film produced a thrilling crime saga that combined real-world commentary with comic-book tropes to craft a complex tale of morality and corruption through the lens of heroism. There’s an explosive intensity in watching the complexity of the psychological battle that can be equally gripping as the physical battles. The Dark Knight is unlike any other superhero film. Chances are, there will never be one better. It’s a modern masterpiece that set the bar to new heights.
6
‘Gladiator’ (2000)
When bringing audiences to ancient Rome, it’s almost inevitable that the story will feature some sort of action. When Ridley Scott arrived with Gladiator, our image of ancient Rome was shaped for good. An epic action-adventure period piece, Gladiator answered “yes” to the question, “Are you not entertained?” Gladiator follows Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe), a respected Roman general betrayed by the corrupt new Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), the son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), who murders his father to seize the throne. Commodus murders Maximus’s family and enslaves him, forcing him to become a gladiator to seek bloody revenge and restore honor to Rome. As he rises through the ranks of the arena, Maximus is determined to avenge the murders. Through thrilling gladiator battles and rich visuals, the historical drama became the blueprint of every Roman epic that followed. And none, not even the sequel, reached the same thumbs-up.
Loosely based on real events in the Roman Empire, Gladiator made history exciting while revitalizing the epic. What helped differentiate the film from others was the emotional range Crowe and Phoenix brought to it. They give you a reason to invest. Despite the historical setting, the revenge story was universal. As a director, Scott knows how to craft something captivating. Whether in space or in the past, his innate ability to bring an action-filled atmosphere to life is unlike that of many directors. Pair it with Hans Zimmer‘s score, and you’re truly in for a treat. Gladiator is cinema at its finest.
7
‘Lethal Weapon’ (1987)
It’s about time we brought a buddy-cop action film to light, and what better film than Lethal Weapon? Directed by Richard Donner, the film follows two mismatched LAPD detectives: Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson), a volatile former Special Forces soldier struggling with suicidal impulses after his wife’s death, and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover), a seasoned homicide sergeant and devoted family man. The pair becomes partners to investigate a young woman’s apparent suicide during the Christmas season. While they clash during their mission, they uncover a massive drug-smuggling ring run by ex-Special Forces mercenaries. Becoming a dynamic duo that set off a media franchise, Lethal Weapon‘s ability to bring comedy to the odd-couple-style action film gave credence to the action style audiences were seeking.
If Die Hard or The Godfather wasn’t your dad’s favorite film, chances are that Lethal Weapon was. With humor built in, Lethal Weapon introduced a necessary amount of over-the-top action. A character-driven study on how unlikely team-ups in police films work wonders, Lethal Weapon may feel dated today, but its influence is timeless. The film may have had moments of lightness amid the action, but its ability to infuse dark elements, including the topic of suicide, helped future action films go beyond big booms. Tackling important themes allowed the genre to level up.
8
‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ (2000)
Western audiences have always had an affinity for martial arts films, but the fascination exploded after the 2000 epic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Based on Wang Dulu‘s novel of the same name, the film follows two master warriors, Li Mu Bai (Chow Yun-fat) and Yu Shu Lien (Michelle Yeoh), who are faced with their greatest challenge when the treasured Green Destiny sword is stolen by a mysterious thief — the fiery, rebellious aristocrat Jen Yu (Zhang Ziyi). A breathtaking action film that pushes the genre’s boundaries, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon tackles poignant themes of duty, desire, and hidden potential.
Ang Lee‘s martial arts film blended action with romance. They may not seem like a formidable pair, but they are, just like the fight choreography that utilizes a balletic approach. The gravity-defying action brought Western audiences to the cinema, where they were met with an action-thriller style they likely hadn’t seen before. Introducing wuxia, known as martial arts fantasy, to a global audience paved the way for other Asian films. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon isn’t just an action flick; it’s a visually spectacular, emotionally resonant film that brought cinema some of its most iconic fight sequences.
9
‘John Wick’ (2014)
It’s safe to say that when you employ Keanu Reeves for an action film, it’s going to be something extraordinary. If we simply look at this list alone, Reeves is the greatest action star. Whether you believe it or not, he claimed his stake in the conversation upon taking the titular role in 2014’s John Wick. Directed by Chad Stahelski, John Wick follows the legendary retired hitman as he’s pulled back into the criminal underworld he left behind after sadistic mobster Iosef Tarasov (Alfie Allen) and his thugs steal his car and kill the puppy, a final gift from his recently deceased wife. John unleashes the remorseless killing machine within and sparks a relentless quest for vengeance that uncovers the secret world of assassins and their strict rules. Marrying the mythology of the criminal underworld with stylish direction, well-choreographed fight scenes, and committed performances, the practical action thriller became a standout modern hit that launched a newfound action franchise.
Having the steadfast Reeves in the central role, it was a shoo-in that the film would garner attention. His strong performance proved that John Wick was a triumphant return to form for the actor. With strong material and a bold vision around him, Reeves helped to amplify the action genre again, as he did with The Matrix. As a clean and kinetic film, John Wick benefited from viral word-of-mouth, helping launch it to the peak of contemporary action films. With Marvel essentially taking over the action blockbusters in the 2010s, John Wick reinvigorated the action-thriller genre.
10
‘Casino Royale’ (2006)
Now, some of you die-hard James Bond fans might be perplexed as to why it would take Daniel Craig‘s first time as 007 to earn the moniker of a blueprint masterpiece. Others may understand completely. Either way, fans are united that Casino Royale is an extraordinary film that may be one of the best in the entire franchise. Examining what came before and after, Casino Royale supercharged the franchise while imploring future spy thrillers to match the execution of Martin Campbell‘s action movie. Casino Royale finds Bond as he’s sent to Madagascar, where he discovers a link to Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), a financier of terrorist organizations. Learning that he is to raise money for a high-stakes poker game, Bond heads to Montenegro as he sets out to bankrupt him at the table. As he sets out to defeat his new enemy, he falls in love with Vesper Lynd (Eva Green), a British Treasury agent, who becomes entangled in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game.
Years after Die Another Day, Craig rebooted the franchise despite his divisive casting. Nevertheless, he tackled the role with extraordinary vigor. Despite the boyish good looks, he was still rough around the edges, making him an engaging character. Between his devastatingly wonderful chemistry with Green’s Vesper as well as his ability to elevate Mikkelsen’s Le Chiffre into a formidable and terrifying presence, Craig proved his worth as the 21st-century Bond. As we await his replacement, filling Craig’s shoes will be a difficult task, but what’s clear is that Craig changed how Bond films should be tackled. No longer was the franchise leaning on campy action — instead, it appealed to modern audiences who sought graphic, visceral action sequences. And Casino Royale delivered. It was a complete game-changer.
Entertainment
Bosch Franchise Star’s Forgotten Bruce Lee Parody Is a Surprise Netflix Hit 19 Years Later
The Bosch universe grew once again in 2025 with arguably its most impressive spin-off yet. After seven seasons of Prime Video dominance for Titus Welliver‘s original Los Angeles Police Department Detective, the sequel series Bosch: Legacy proved just as successful, although shockingly was sent packing after just three seasons. However, this was to make room for Ballard, the latest spin-off starring Maggie Q, and the first in the Bosch universe to be led by a woman.
The series follows LAPD Detective Renée Ballard, who was introduced towards the end of Bosch: Legacy, as she struggles to lead an underfunded cold-case division. A magnetic police procedural that has earned near-universal praise from critics and fans alike, Ballard was unsurprisingly renewed for a second season, which is expected to premiere either later this year or early in 2027. Possibly Q’s greatest performance yet, fans can’t wait for Ballard to return to the Robbery-Homicide Division (RHD). In the meantime, one of the actor’s lesser-known movies is making its way to the world’s biggest streamer.
The movie in question is Balls of Fury, a ping-pong movie that is less Marty Supreme and more Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story. A harmless yet rather unconvincing comedy from director Robert Ben Garant — a year after he wrote Night at the Museum — Balls of Fury was poorly received by critics, despite Q’s stand-out, scene-stealing energy. Dan Fogler of Fantastic Beasts fame stars in his first lead role, joined by the likes of George Lopez, Christopher Walken, Terry Crews, and more. Almost two decades on, Balls of Fury will be available to stream on Netflix in the U.S., starting August 1.
How Did ‘Balls of Fury’ Perform at the Box Office?
Back in 2007, comedies proved to be much more successful at the box office than they are today. Although the production budget for Balls of Fury has not been publicly disclosed, its global haul of $41 million is relatively strong, considering its poor critical performance. The movie opened in late August 2007, managing to take third place in the domestic ranks in its first weekend, outperforming the likes of The Bourne Ultimatum and Rush Hour 3.
Balls of Fury is streaming on Netflix starting August 1. Stay tuned to Collider for all the latest streaming stories.
- Release Date
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August 29, 2007
- Runtime
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90 minutes
- Director
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Robert Ben Garant
- Producers
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Derek Evans, Gary Barber, Jonathan Glickman, Roger Birnbaum
Entertainment
‘Game of Thrones’ Meets ‘Lord of the Rings’ in Guy Ritchie’s Failed Fantasy Franchise-Starter
2026 has been a wild year so far for Guy Ritchie, who has found success with projects like Young Sherlock but struggled with other projects such as In The Grey. The former is a Prime Video original series that was dropped as a binge back in March, and after spending weeks in the global streaming top 10, Prime Video picked up Young Sherlock for Season 2 — and cameras are already rolling, ensuring that it will be back before the end of next year. As for In The Grey, the star power of Henry Cavill and Jake Gyllenhaal wasn’t enough to get the film off the ground at the box office. Poor reviews led to it flopping hard before going on to seek redemption on VOD platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV.
Like any director who has been making movies as long as Guy Ritchie, he’s had plenty of hits and misses over the years. One of his most infamous misfires came back in 2017 with the launch of King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, the historical action epic starring Charlie Hunnam in the titular role. There were much larger plans for King Arthur to start a massive franchise, but after the film bombed at the box office, earning only $149 million against a $175 million budget, these were permanently canceled. Almost 10 years removed from its theatrical release, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is still without a streaming home in America, but the film has resurfaced in the VOD top 10 in a handful of countries around the world on both Prime Video and Apple TV.
What Is ‘King Arthur: Legend of the Sword’ About?
The official synopsis for King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, which also stars Jude Law and Eric Bana, reads as follows: “Robbed of his birthright, Arthur grows up on the streets, unaware of his true destiny. When he draws the sword Excalibur from stone, he’s thrust into a brutal fight against the tyrannical King Vortigern, who murdered his parents to seize the crown. Backed by a mysterious mage and a band of rebels, Arthur must master the sword’s power and lead a revolution to reclaim his throne.” King Arthur earned scores of 31% from critics and 69% from audiences on the aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes. In addition to directing the film, Guy Ritchie also worked on the screenplay with Joby Harold, Lionel Wigram, and David Dobkin. King Arthur is perfect for fans of Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings, though it doesn’t carry the same prestige weight as either project.
Check out King Arthur: Legend of the Sword on Prime Video or Apple TV, and stay tuned to Collider for more updates and coverage of Guy Ritchie’s future projects.
- Release Date
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May 10, 2017
- Runtime
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126 minutes
- Producers
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Akiva Goldsman, Lionel Wigram, Steve Clark-Hall, Tory Tunnell, Guy Ritchie, Joby Harold
Entertainment
Tom Brady Slaps Logan Paul in Front of Karl-Anthony Towns
Tom Brady and Logan Paul’s rivalry turned physical in a heated moment at Fanatics Fest.
The former NFL quarterback, 48, slapped the WWE star, 31, across the face during a live appearance at the New York City event on Friday, July 17 , which was seen in a video shared by the official Fanatics X account.
After the pair exchanged words, Brady reached over and delivered an open-handed slap, prompting New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns to step in between them.
Brady later poked fun at the moment via X, referring to Paul as a “dork” as he posted footage of the exchange.
Us Weekly has reached out to Brady’s representatives for comment.
The confrontation marks the latest chapter in the pair’s ongoing public “feud,” which has been playing out over the past several months.
The friendly rivalry appeared to originate earlier this year when Paul trash-talked Brady at a Fanatics event in February, insisting that his WWE career made him more athletic than NFL players.

Tom Brady and Logan Paul. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images for OBB Media – FANATICS STUDIOS)
In response to the comments, Brady described Paul as a “good athlete,” but dismissed his skills in the ring as “very cute.”
Sharing a clip of the moment via X at the time, Brady wrote, “I was having a great morning and now I’m mad.”
Ahead of the 2026 Fanatics Flag Football Classic in March, Brady warned Paul to watch out.
“You might wear a helmet — that ball might get loose in my hand and if you’re not paying attention,” Brady told Paul at the draft.
Brady followed through with his threat and did actually throw a ball at Paul during the game.
Fox Sports shared a clip of the moment via X, captioning it, “🤣🤣 @TomBrady trolling @LoganPaul.”
Speaking to WWE’s Cody Rhodes on the “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast on Thursday, July 16, Brady admitted he’d love to dip his toe in the ring.
“I need to get an invite. I’ve been waiting for [WWE president] Nick Khan to come up with some storyline for me to get in the mix,” Brady said on the podcast. “I feel like I’m retired from football, and I have an opportunity to go out there and still showcase that I’m a little bit of an athlete.”
Brady urged the powers that be to consider the idea of letting him battle it out in the ring.
“I think I could get in there for at least one match,” Brady said. “Come on, Nick. Make it happen.”
Entertainment
Say Goodbye to Alan Ritchson’s Most Unexpected Movie on Streaming
There can be no doubt that Alan Ritchson is among the biggest stars to come out of the streaming industry in the last half a decade. Ritchson emerged in the spotlight thanks to a lead role in the hit Prime Video series Reacher, after which he was cast in major projects such as Fast X, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, and this year’s sci-fi hit War Machine, which has since become one of the most-watched Netflix originals ever made. Ritchson is set to return to the action genre this month, with the upcoming film Motor City, which will be released on July 24. Before that, his fans can check out one of his rare dramatic performances in a movie that’s currently streaming on Peacock in the United States, but will be removed from the platform soon.
The movie was released theatrically in 2024 by Lionsgate, grossing around $20 million worldwide against a reported budget of $13 million. Directed by House of David’s Jon Gunn, the film also features Oscar winner Hilary Swank and was based on true events that took place in the mid-1990s. The movie received highly positive reviews, and is now sitting at a “Certified Fresh” 84% critics’ score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes. The audience score, as with most faith-based movies, is even higher, at a near-perfect 99%.
Watch Alan Ritchson’s Dramatic Movie on Peacock Before It Leaves
We’re talking about Ordinary Angels, whose Rotten Tomatoes consensus reads, “With a dash of grace and circumstance, this sweet display of humanity is stabilized by Hilary Swank in a role that plays to the heartstrings of all Ordinary Angels.” The movie has become a home-video hit since its theatrical run, no doubt benefiting from that incredible Rotten Tomatoes audience score. You can check it out on Peacock before it’s removed from the platform on July 21. Motor City will be released theatrically three days later, and Ritchson is also expected to reprise his role as Reacher in the upcoming spin-off series Neagley. A fourth season of the main show is in the works as well. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
-
February 23, 2024
- Runtime
-
118 Minutes
- Director
-
Jon Gunn
- Writers
-
Meg Tilly, Kelly Fremon Craig
Entertainment
Jennifer Garner’s Rich-Looking Jeans Are Chic Year After Year
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Jennifer Garner always seems to know exactly when to zig while everyone else zags. While trend cycles keep pushing barrel legs, extreme cuts and experimental denim, she stepped out in a timeless pair of dark-wash jeans that reminded me why some styles never lose their appeal.
During a New York City outing, The Five-Star Weekend actress paired a navy polo sweater with brown pumps, oversized sunglasses and classic dark-wash jeans. The effortless outfit proves that sometimes the most stylish choices you make are ones you’ll happily wear for years, and the denim look is actually available on Amazon.
Get the Levi’s Ribcage Full-Length Jeans for $74 (was $110) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Her pants look remarkably similar to the Levi’s Ribcage Full-Length Jeans, a timeless pair that delivers the same rich-looking finish without chasing fleeting trends. The deep indigo wash, clean silhouette and polished feel make them work just as well with loafers and a tee as they do with heels and a knit sweater.
So what makes these jeans look so flattering? Well, it’s mainly the fit. The high-rise waistband creates that sculpted, tucked-in effect, while the slim leg skims the body without feeling restrictive. Made from 99% cotton with 1% elastane, the jeans offer enough stretch for comfort and structure, too.
They’re available in sizes 24 through 32, and come in multiple washes, including white, light wash, black and Garner’s rich dark indigo.
Shoppers say the fit lives up to the hype, too. The jeans have earned over 550 five-star ratings on Amazon, with one reviewer writing that they “fit like an absolute dream” and “offer great tummy support and booty support.” Another shopper added, “The quality and style of these jeans are comparable to any of my higher end brand jeans.”
Garner’s outfit is proof that you don’t need ultra-trendy jeans to look current. In fact, a rich-looking dark wash, like this Levi’s style, might be the smartest denim investment you can make, especially if you’re searching for a pair you’ll reach for season after season.
Get the Levi’s Ribcage Full-Length Jeans for $74 (was $110) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more from Levi’s 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.
Entertainment
Ridley Scott’s Sci-Fi Masterpiece Surges to #1 on Prime Video Ahead of Sequel Series
When it comes to sci-fi movies and TV shows, few directors have given as much to the genre as Ridley Scott, who has single-handedly spearheaded some of the most famous franchises of all time. The first franchise that immediately comes to mind is Alien, which first started with Scott’s 1979 sci-fi horror classic, and it is still going strong to this day with Scott’s steady producing hand through his production banner, Scott Free. After going on hiatus from the sci-fi genre in recent years thanks to his work on historical epics like Gladiator II and Napoleon, Scott will return to the world of sci-fi this August for his next feature film, The Dog Stars. Josh Brolin and Jacob Elordi will headline the film, along with Margaret Qualley, Guy Pearce, and Benedict Wong.
Another famous Ridley Scott sci-fi franchise, albeit one with many fewer entries than Alien, is Blade Runner. Ridley Scott directed the original Blade Runner movie starring Harrison Ford all the way back in 1982, and the franchise went on ice until 2017, when it returned with the legacy sequel, Blade Runner 2049. With the returning star power of Harrison Ford paired with one of Ryan Gosling’s finest performances, Blade Runner 2049 debuted to widespread critical acclaim — it’s still regarded as one of the greatest sci-fi sequels in history. Nearly 10 years after Blade Runner 2049 first hit theaters, the film is still without a streaming home in America, but it’s still one of the most popular VOD purchases on platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV. Ridley Scott did not direct the film, but he did produce, and passed directorial control to Denis Villeneuve.
When Does ‘Blade Runner 2099’ Come Out?
Almost 10 years after the premiere of Blade Runner 2049, the story will continue with a new Prime Video original series, Blade Runner 2099, starring Michelle Yeoh and Hunter Schafer. Prime Video has yet to officially announce a release date for Blade Runner 2099, but it has been confirmed that the series will premiere before the end of this year. Amazon is hosting a Blade Runner panel at San Diego Comic-Con later this month, and it’s expected that the studio will reveal the first look at the show along with an official release date.
Check out Blade Runner 2049 on VOD platforms like Prime Video, and stay tuned to Collider for more updates and coverage of the Blade Runner franchise.
- Release Date
-
October 4, 2017
- Runtime
-
164 minutes
- Director
-
Denis Villeneuve
- Writers
-
Michael Green, Hampton Fancher
- Producers
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Andrew A. Kosove, Broderick Johnson, Bud Yorkin, Cynthia Sikes, Carl Rogers, Dana Belcastro, Steven P. Wegner
Entertainment
The Western Masterpiece Quentin Tarantino Hates Is Streaming for Free
The veteran New Yorker critic Richard Brody hailed it as “the greatest American political movie,” Sergio Leone singled it out as his favorite of John Ford’s films, while Roger Ebert wrote that it was close to perfection. Quentin Tarantino has obviously been influenced by the movie in question, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, but he has also been a vocal critic of Ford for years. In fact, Tarantino didn’t mince his words when he said in an interview, “To say the least, I hate him. Forget about faceless Indians he killed like zombies. It really is people like that that kept alive this idea of Anglo-Saxon humanity compared to everybody else’s humanity—and the idea that that’s hogwash is a very new idea in relative terms.”
Ford’s 1962 classic, which united the iconic James Stewart and John Wayne for the first time on screen, has a near-immaculate reputation now. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance holds a 95% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, “Featuring a trio of classic leading men and a rich story captured by a director at the peak of his craft, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is one of the finest Westerns ever filmed.” In a retrospective review, Collider’s Liam Gaughan wrote that the movie “remains a critical achievement that examines mythology, political participation, and sensitive masculinity.”
Here’s Where You Can Watch the Classic Western for Free
Leone, who is recognized as the greatest director of spaghetti Westerns, praised The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance as being the first of Ford’s films to not have a rose-tinted view of America. The movie chose to question how legends are created, an idea that remains as relevant now, in this age of superheroes, militaristic policing, and brute politics, as it was over six decades ago. The good news is that The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is streaming for free on the Pluto TV and Tubi platforms right now, while Leone’s Once Upon a Time in the West — Tarantino’s favorite Western, by the way – is available on Prime Video. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
-
April 22, 1962
- Runtime
-
123 Minutes
- Director
-
John Ford
- Writers
-
James Warner Bellah, Willis Goldbeck, Dorothy M. Johnson
Entertainment
Awful Promo For TV’s Best Comedy Leads To Accusations Of AI
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published

There are plenty of funny shows on television right now. For my money (at least, what isn’t invested in Wolf Cola), none can compete with It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, the long-running sitcom that began way back in 2005. Now, the award-winning show is about to premiere its 18th season on August 17, and fans are understandably excited. Much of that excitement disappeared, however, when the fandom took a look at the most recent advertisement for the show.
Recently, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia released a new poster to help advertise the upcoming season. The poster re-imagines the cast of the show as beer tap handles. The ad looks ugly and more than a little surreal, and it didn’t take fans long to blame the uncanny design of the advertisement on AI. Accusations that the show had embraced generative slop spread like wildfire across the internet. Eventually, the show shut down these rumors in the most direct way: by releasing a behind-the-scenes video demonstrating how the controversial poster was created by actual humans.
Bad Art On Tap

The poster for Season 18 of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is meant to emphasize well-known traits of its quirky characters. For example, Dennis is the tap handle for a “golden lager” to remind us that he’s the golden god, and “Charlie’s Rat Bash Draft” reminds us of his brutal extermination exploits around the bar. Frank, meanwhile, is the handle for a “Rum Ham Sour” that reminds us of his sloshy swine invention. Conceptually, all of this is very fun and filled with winking references to past episodes. There’s just one problem: the uncanny art makes the whole thing look like AI slop.
Almost as soon as the poster dropped, fans began questioning if it was generated by AI. The very possibility disappointed countless fans because the real strength of It’s Always Sunny has always been the human creativity at the heart of the show. It’s an open secret that AI is used by lazy creators who are eager to cut corners, reducing quality in the name of saving a couple of bucks. The fandom began collectively asking the hard questions: had the best comedy on TV sold out, and was this AI slop an early warning that Season 18 would suck? Fortunately, the creators of the show put all our fears to rest by releasing a video showing how the poster was created.
Busting The AI Slop Myth
The video is fairly methodical, showing exactly how the poster was designed. Releasing that video successfully silenced persistent rumors that It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia was embracing AI slop as part of its creative decisions. However, the video fails to answer another burning question: why did the artists go with an aesthetic that is so otherwise indistinguishable from generative AI? To be perfectly blunt, nobody would have made an accusation in the first place if the poster wasn’t so weirdly ugly. However, some fans have a theory that all of us fell for a stunt that would impress even Thunder Gun.
You see, one of the themes that Season 18 of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia will explore is “withstanding job loss at the hands of workplace automation.” We don’t know exactly how the show will explore that issue, but what better way to prepare the fandom than by making everyone worry their favorite show was now relying on AI? It’s entirely possible that all of us who fretted over the possibility of slop have been led to the same conclusion the show wants us to reach: namely, that we should hate the slop aesthetic and emphatically reject any creators who use AI as a shortcut.

If you’re wondering how the show will tackle the evils of workplace automation, you won’t have to wait very long to find out. Season 18 of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia premieres on August 17 on FXX. We can look forward to 10 more episodes of delightfully deranged entertainment featuring everything from the danger of conspiracy theories to more misadventures with the McPoyles. And if we’re really lucky, maybe Dennis and Mac will find their own use for generative AI: finally creating yet another sequel to Lethal Weapon!
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