Warner Bros.’ hopes for another trip to Barbie Land appear to be facing a costly setback. Talks with Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling and the original creative team have yet to produce a deal as a key rights deadline approaches.

According to reports, director Greta Gerwig already has a “Barbie 2” story ready but is keeping it from the studio until the deals are finalized.

Plans for a second “Barbie” movie have reportedly stalled as Warner Bros. Discovery struggles to secure new deals with Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling and the film’s creative team.

According to The New York Times, CEO David Zaslav has resisted offering Robbie and Gosling lucrative contracts that include profit participation. Gosling, who earned an Oscar nomination for playing Ken, is reportedly seeking a salary increase to $20 million.

The studio did not lock the cast into sequel agreements before the original film because the stars signed one-picture contracts as part of the deal to bring Greta Gerwig aboard as director. That means every major participant is now free to renegotiate following the movie’s $1.4 billion box-office run.

Warner Bros. co-chairs Pam Abdy and Michael De Luca said the studio has made several “big offers” but has yet to reach an agreement. A spokesperson also denied that an approved deal framework had later been withdrawn.

Greta Gerwig Reportedly Keeping ‘Barbie 2’ Under Wraps

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Beyond the money, another supposed big sticking point in the “Barbie 2” negotiations is the story itself. Gerwig and her husband and longtime writing partner, Noah Baumbach, are said to have already settled on a concept for the sequel and are ready to begin writing.

However, the pair reportedly won’t reveal a single plot detail to Warner Bros. until their contracts are finalized, giving them an unusual advantage in the ongoing talks.

The strategy marks a notable shift from Gerwig’s earlier stance. After “Barbie” became the highest-grossing film of 2023, she repeatedly insisted a sequel would only happen if she discovered another story worth telling. “If I find the undertow, then we get it. If I don’t find an undertow, there’s no more,” she said while accepting TIME’s Women of the Year honor in 2024.

Reports that Gerwig and Baumbach had cracked that story first surfaced late that same year, though Warner Bros. and representatives for the filmmakers publicly disputed that development at the time.

Why ‘Barbie’ Could Be Forced To Start Over From Scratch

Warner Bros. faces a December deadline to begin developing the sequel. If the studio fails to strike a deal before then, the “Barbie” franchise would effectively revert the sequel rights to Mattel, giving the toy giant full control of the property once again. But the company wouldn’t inherit the foundation Warner Bros. has spent years building.

The NY Times report says Mattel would have to redevelop the franchise from scratch, meaning it could not take the existing story elements or the filmmakers and stars attached to the current project to another studio.

That would leave Gerwig’s reported sequel idea on the shelf unless a new agreement is eventually reached. It would also put the future of Robbie, Gosling, and the rest of the original creative team in serious doubt.

‘Narnia’ Is Keeping Gerwig Busy

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Warner Bros. might have to make a decision pretty soon on just how much it wants Gerwig to write and direct a “Barbie” sequel, given just how packed her slate already is.

The Oscar-nominated filmmaker is currently focused on “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew,” her ambitious adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved fantasy novel for Netflix. Gerwig wrote, directed and produced the film, which stars Daniel Craig, Emma Mackey, Carey Mulligan and Meryl Streep.

The project is scheduled for a global theatrical release on Feb. 12, 2027, before debuting on Netflix on April 2.

The Cast Has Always Been Cautious About ‘Barbie 2’

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The cast of “Barbie” has often been reluctant to promise fans a return to Barbie Land.

Speaking to TIME after the film’s record-breaking run, Robbie said discussions about the franchise had taken place but stressed that nothing had been decided. “It could go a million different directions from this point,” she said, adding that filmmakers can fall into “a bit of a trap” by trying to plan sequels while making the first movie.

Ryan Gosling has been just as guarded. During a fan Q&A at London’s BFI Southbank, the actor dismissed questions about a follow-up, saying, “I’m not going anywhere near that. We really know nothing.”

Still, Gosling couldn’t resist having a little fun with the idea. After insisting he had no inside information, he joked about Ken’s possible next evolution. “Can it be a Husky Ken? Can I play Husky Ken… like Sandwich Ken?” he asked, per Variety.

I’ve always had a habit of helping people find their dream dresses for every occasion. I mean, I did grow up working in a bridal boutique. After the brides, I adored the shoppers who came in looking for wedding guest dresses. These women loved to play around with color and different silhouettes. And funnily enough, when I look at the wedding guest dresses that are popular today, not much has changed.

Pleats, florals, rich colors and even halter necklines are still standard today. I scoured the internet to find the best wedding guest dresses that stand the test of time. One thing’s for sure: if you pick one of the dresses below, you’ll be able to wear it to countless weddings for years.

13 Wedding Guest Dresses That Never Go Out of Style

1. My Favorite: The best part of this tiered ruffle dress is that it looks incredible on every body type. The design disguises your midsection and the proportions are slimming. Slip into it, and you’ll feel like your best self!

2. Draped to Perfection: Dresses made with haute couture-inspired draping and ruching — like this chic satin design — sneakily help hide lumps and bumps. The stunning, classic design will help you strut into any wedding feeling your best.

3. Slip Into It: Satin slip dresses have proven longevity — not even the silhouette styles have changed much since I worked at the bridal store. With the right care, this shiny draped design will last you for decades.

4. Pleats Forever: For outdoor summer weddings, pleated dresses create a subtly elegant vibe that matches the relaxed warm weather energy. My suggestions: opt for this pick in a vibrant color, like purple or green.

5. Ruffles Galore: Ruffles have proven to have staying power through the seasons. My aunt even said she saw versions of this strapless tiered ruffle dress back when she first opened her store in 1998. Talk about never going out of style!

6. Endless Options: Convertible straps are undoubtedly the best. Why? Well, you end up getting five different dresses in one. This mesh Abercrombie dress is a steal considering how many different ways you can wear it.

7. Criss Cross: I always remember women falling in love with a halter neck wedding guest dress like this one. The neckline has a slimming ability that lengthens your entire body.

8. Totally Timeless: Strapless dresses are a time-tested silhouette, and this one, with its asymmetrical drop waist and uneven hem, looks like something straight out of a rom com.

9. Endless Colors: One of the best parts about wedding guest dress shopping? You can pretty much choose any color (except white, of course). This ruched one-shoulder stunner comes in 12 hues so you can find one that complements you perfectly.

10. Black Tie Ready: Shopping for a black tie wedding can be intimidating, but one of the best silhouettes is a long, straight gown with an open back. Simply stunning!

11. Flower Fields: When it came to spring and summer weddings, I always saw an uptick in floral dress requests. This strapless pick is memorable thanks to the removable scarf.

12. Princess Vibes: Even though someone else’s wedding isn’t your special day, you can still feel like a princess with this billowing off-the-shoulder dress. It’s a serious compliment getter.

13. Let the Snow Fall: Winter weddings can feel challenging to dress for, but you can never go wrong with velvet. The deep colors this velvet dress comes in, including burgundy and green, will have you looking regal.

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After hearing the devastating news that PlayStation will be removing its physical library in the future, resorting only to digital games and, most likely, digital-only consoles, fans are reminded of what used to be. While the Nintendo Switch is closing the gap with console sales because of games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the best-selling video game console is still the PlayStation 2.

With around 160 million units sold worldwide, this gaming sensation was essential in the early 2000s. However, while the console was great, everyone bought it for the games, and that is because this console was home to some of the greatest games ever. That is why this list will rank the ten greatest PS2 video games of all time based on how iconic they were, influence, originality, popularity, critical acclaim, gameplay, design, visuals, narrative, and overall quality. This list will include any PS2 games, not just exclusives.

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‘Kingdom Hearts II’ (2005)

Image via Square Enix

Disney is a family-friendly franchise, and while they aren’t particularly known for their video games, the Kingdom Hearts franchise is incredible, specifically Kingdom Hearts II. After a year-long slumber, Sora, Donald, and Goofy reawaken to pick up their fight against a mysterious organization that wants to bring Disney and the original worlds to an end.

Kingdom Hearts II is an incredible-looking game for the PS2, highlighting the best graphics of the franchise. It tightened the gameplay of the first while introducing new captivating mechanics and improvements such as cinematic reaction commands and incredible boss fight choreography. The PS2 has many fantastic games, but Kingdom Hearts II was a must-play on the console.

9

‘Okami’ (2006)

Image via Capcom

The PS2 had some visually striking video games, and one of the most gorgeous in terms of art style and uniqueness was Okami. The player controls Amaterasu, the sun goddess of Japan, who takes on the form of a White Wolf. When a dark curse is launched on the land of Nippon by an ancient demon, Amaterasu must cleanse the land or risk the country falling into ruin.

Okami’s art style resembles a traditional Japanese sumi-e ink wash painting, which features thick brushstrokes and vibrant splashes of color. This aesthetic makes the game feel like a painting come to life, truly being the closest thing a video game can come to being art. The brush mechanic was innovative and thematically relevant, further showcasing this visually stunning video game in all of its beauty.

8

‘Gran Turismo 4’ (2005)

Image via Sony

Each of the three major gaming companies has its own racing franchise, and Gran Turismo is the staple of PlayStation, specifically Gran Turismo 4 on the PS2. Starting as a novice driver with a cheap car, players work their way up through a plethora of races, getting more advanced cars so they can conquer the tracks even better.

The first Gran Turismo is a legendary game and one of the most influential, but Gran Turismo 4 reinvented the formula and ironed it out to be the definitive racing experience. It achieved technical perfection not seen before, pushing the PS2 to the limit with over 700 cars to choose from. The progression system is rewarding, and the gameplay is satisfying, making it the best of its franchise.

7

‘God of War II’ (2007)

Image via Santa Monica Studio

The God of War franchise is one of the most acclaimed out there, especially in the modern-day after the 2018 version redefined the narrative and gameplay. However, back on the PS2, the best of the franchise is still God of War II. After Zeus betrays and kills Kratos, the Titan Gaia revives him, giving him the chance to travel through time and fight through the underworld to rewrite his fate and kill the King of the Gods.

God of War II came out on both the PS2 and PS3, but it was an exclusive on the former for about two years, making it a staple of the best-selling console. By delivering an unbridled sense of anger and exhilaration, this game becomes a digital cathartic experience that is freeing to play. God of War II is an action masterclass with polished combat and fluid gameplay, which made it a nice send-off late in the PS2’s lifespan.

6

‘Final Fantasy X’ (2001)

Image via Square Enix

After years of being exclusive games on Nintendo consoles, Final Fantasy switched to PlayStation with Final Fantasy VII. But this list is about the PS2, and Final Fantasy X is woven into the fabric of that console. When Tidus is transported from his highly-advanced world to a fantasy realm, he teams up with a mage to go on an adventure and take down the one who summoned him here.

This was the PS2’s first and best Final Fantasy game, being the first to fully integrate voice acting and 3D environments. It was a massive technological leap that marked a milestone in the franchise. The strategic combat system made gameplay even more engaging, and when paired with a gorgeous soundtrack and emotional finale, Final Fantasy X became a staple of the console.

5

‘Silent Hill 2’ (2001)

Image via Konami

The PS2 was home to some of the greatest horror games of all time, including what many consider to be the best: Silent Hill 2. The game follows James Sunderland, who travels to the titular town in order to learn the mystery behind a letter he got from his deceased wife. Desperate for answers, he continuously searches the decaying town while avoiding its monstrous inhabitants.

Silent Hill 2 wasn’t a PS2 exclusive, but it was the only way to play the game for a few months, which is why they are often paired with each other. With one of the most brilliant narratives in horror history, the entire environment and monsters were all manifestations of the protagonist’s guilt and despair. This was a renowned twist and masterful narrative connection that helped Silent Hill 2 become the scariest video game.

4

‘Resident Evil 4’ (2005)

Image via Capcom

Resident Evil is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, and it has been a fantastic year, but the pinnacle of the franchise is still Resident Evil 4. After the president’s daughter is kidnapped in Spain, Leon Kennedy embarks on an adventure to rescue her. However, he discovers that the ones who have her captive have been taken over by mind-controlling parasites.

Resident Evil 4 innovated in so many ways, from the over-the-shoulder camera angle to the adjustable inventory, which redefined how third-person shooters were handled. Some fans didn’t appreciate the shift into an action-centric focus, but it still maintained a horror feel that felt true to the original. Resident Evil 4 is a best-selling video game that would be higher on this list if it were a PS2 exclusive, even if that is the definitive way to play.

3

‘Shadow of the Colossus’ (2005)

Fumito Ueda is a legendary game designer who has a couple of masterpieces on the PS2, including his magnum opus, Shadow of the Colossus. After their lover dies, the protagonist makes a deal with a supernatural entity where he must kill 16 Colossi beasts in order to bring her back to life. The player must travel around the world and defeat these towering creatures in the name of love.

Shadow of the Colossus is one of the few genuine PlayStation exclusives on this list, only being playable on other consoles with the remake. That makes it perfect for this list, as it was a defining video game of this era and for the console. This game is all about boss fights, which are essentially gigantic puzzles that build up some of the most intense gaming moments. Shadow of the Colossus is a melancholic experience that highlights its innovative gameplay through the operatic battles and a depressing, yet perfect ending.

Image via Konami

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Hideo Kojima is a prolific game designer who has spawned countless masterpieces, like the PS2 classic Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. After a failed mission, Solid Snake is presumed dead, and years later, an agent known as Raiden is sent to infiltrate a facility and save the president. However, he learns that this is a staged mission, and all part of a test for a device that can control human behavior.

For its time, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty was one of the most ambitious narratives in the gaming scene, using its bait-and-switch protagonist to deconstruct player expectations. Aging like a fine wine, this game gets more relevant and perfect by the day, and it is best experienced on the PS2. Narrative aside, Metal Gear Solid 2 polishes the stealth mechanics to create a remarkable gameplay experience.

1

‘Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas’ (2004)

Image via Rockstar Games

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Grand Theft Auto is one of the biggest gaming franchises in the world, and PlayStation has always been the best way to play them, including Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. CJ returns to his city after his mother passes away, but when he gets back, he is framed for her murder. In order to clear his name, he must travel across the state, save his family, and take back the streets.

It feels weird for GTA: San Andreas to beat out PS2 exclusive games like Metal Gear Solid 2 and Shadow of the Colossus since it was released on other consoles. However, the PS2 and GTA: San Andreas are essentially synonymous, easily being the most compatible and essential way to play. Plus, this game is regarded as one of the greatest of all time, with most of the players agreeing it belongs on the PS2. GTA: San Andreas pushed the bounds of creativity and technical prowess, resulting in a seamless open-world sandbox that remains a cultural landmark of gaming.

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Resident Evil 4

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Released

January 11, 2005

ESRB

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M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language

Engine

RE Engine

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Franchise

Resident Evil

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The drama between Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright is far from over. The exes, who are in the middle of a bitter divorce battle, continue to trade public accusations, the latest of which came from Taylor, who accused Cartwright of sabotaging his life and career. His latest remarks come on the heels of a fake brand partnership that he initially believed was legitimate, which his estranged wife discussed on her podcast.

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“Vanderpump Rules” alum Jax Taylor is speaking out against his ex, Brittany Cartwright, accusing her of making the effort to embarrass him publicly. The latter filed for divorce in 2024, and they are still in the middle of legal proceedings.

At the end of July, Taylor posted an ad for Smartwater on his social media, which was later determined to be a fake brand deal. His ex mocked him in an episode of her podcast, “When Reality Hits,” saying that Taylor faked a brand deal to fix his image of “being a horrible human being.”

Taylor is calling out Cartwright for discussing matters on her podcast instead of privately reaching out to him. “Yesterday was just another example of Brittany going out of her way to publicly embarrass and humiliate me,” Taylor told Us Weekly, adding that the behavior has “become a pattern.”

“It’s just another example of her ongoing attempts to damage my reputation, interfere with my ability to work and earn a living, and make it as difficult as possible for me to move forward and rebuild my life,” Taylor claimed.

Brittany Cartwright Said Smartwater Reached Out To Her

Talking to Tom Schwartz on the podcast, Cartwright said she received a direct message from Smartwater, telling her that the company didn’t authorize Taylor’s post, nor was he approached for a brand deal.

“This is why I don’t believe anything that he says,” Cartwright said, adding that when other people sent her the post, she did not believe the brand would choose his ex to promote the product, and she got confirmation it was fake when they messaged her.

“That is embarrassing,” she continued, to which Schwartz replied, “I’m ashamed for him.”

Jax Taylor Addressed The Fake Brand Deal

On July 31, Taylor posted a statement on social media addressing the fake partnership with Smartwater. He was reportedly offered a campaign opportunity from a “third party influencer platform” and didn’t think twice about accepting the offer.

“As soon as I was notified that the campaign was unauthorized, I removed the content immediately. I have never and would never intentionally misrepresent a partnership,” Taylor wrote, adding that it was an “honest mistake.” He also included a screenshot of the offer he received.

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Furthermore, he called out Cartwright for discussing the matter on her podcast to “mock” and “embarrass” him.

The TV Personality Claims His Ex Is Messing With Work Opportunities

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Taylor said he’s remained silent about Cartwright out of respect for the mother of his child. In his post, however, he alleged that his ex has been making moves to prevent him from earning.

“Brittany has directly contacted networks and brands in an effort to stop me from working and to prevent me from getting opportunities affecting my ability to earn a living,” he wrote.

He told Us Weekly that he was supposed to appear in the TV series “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” and had completed paperwork, but the offer was rescinded. “I came to find out that Brittany contacted them and once again interfered with an amazing job opportunity that would have helped me move forward,” he claimed.

Jax Taylor And Brittany Cartwright Exchange Accusations In Court

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Taylor and Cartwright married in 2019, and they have one child together, a son born in 2021. The latter filed for divorce in 2024, citing irreconcilable differences.

The divorce is taking a long time due to back-and-forth accusations from both camps and unresolved division of assets. Taylor claimed that at their last court session, they spent eight hours attempting to resolve differences to no avail.

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In April, per The Blast, Cartwright shared an update about their relationship, saying that while co-parenting wasn’t easy, they’re trying to make it work for the sake of their son.

Jack Osbourne showed just how fast his baby daughter, Ozzy Matilda, is growing up in an adorable new family photo.

“Little miss ozz already has a mischievous sparkle,” Jack, 40, wrote via Instagram alongside a darling snapshot of his baby sitting on his lap.

Ozzy Matilda is all smiles in a pink romper while her dad cradles her in his arms in the photo. The comment section on Jack’s Instagram post was filled with comparisons between little Ozzy and her late grandfather and namesake, Ozzy Osbourne.

“She’s got a twinkle,” one commenter wrote, while another added, “She has your dads smile n eyes! 😍”

“She doesn’t know it yet, but she’s named after a legend,” another fan declared.

Jack and his wife, Aree Gearhart, announced the arrival of their newborn daughter in March — around eight months after Jack’s dad, Ozzy, died at age 76 in July 2025. (Ozzy’s death certificate clarified that he died from cardiac arrest, acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease.)

Last December, Jack confirmed to The Sun on Sunday that he and Gearhart, 35, were able to tell Ozzy he was going to be a grandfather again before his death. (Jack also shares daughters Pearl, 14, Andy, 11, and Minnie, 8, with ex-wife Lisa Stelly as well as daughter Maple, 4, with Gearhart).

Jack credited the impending arrival of his and Gearhart’s daughter with helping his family grieve the late rocker following his shocking death.

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Related: Jack Osbourne’s Wife Honors ‘Coolest Father-in-Law’ Ozzy After His Death

Jack Osbourne‘s wife, Aree Gearhart, is speaking out following the death of father-in-law Ozzy Osbourne. “I’m pretty sure I have the coolest father in law around, and the best papa to my kids,” she wrote via Instagram on Sunday, August 3, sharing a handful of family photos with the late musician. “The world got a […]

“It’s awesome,” Jack told The Sun at the time. “I think it’s been partly a healthy distraction, partly healing – probably in that kind of ‘full cycle’ category, in a weird way.”

He went on, “It’s very much taken energy out of the grieving side of things and parked in a bit more hopefulness. It’s been easy for me – I think it’s been a lot harder for my wife!”

Jack added that he and Gearhart viewed the arrival of Ozzy Matilda as a moment of renewal for the Osbourne family.

“We’re super-excited [for the baby],” he said in December. “It was sort of planned, I should say. It was maybe a little earlier than expected. But it’s definitely something that we were wanting to pursue and somehow it happened, miraculously.”

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More recently, Jack fired back over speculation about his weight after competing on the jungle-based U.K. reality show I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in late 2025. (His mother, Sharon Osbourne, and sister Kelly Osbourne, have also slammed the social media conversation around their weight in recent years.)

Related: Jack Osbourne Has Rare Grammys Outing With Mini-Me Daughters Pearl and Andy

Jack Osbourne brought two of his look-alike daughters along to cap off a special night honoring his late father, Ozzy Osbourne. Jack, 40, was photographed with kids Pearl, 13, and Andy, 10, at the Universal Music Group’s Grammys afterparty on Sunday, February 1, just hours after Ozzy was commemorated at the Grammy Awards with a […]

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“I cannot believe I’m having to actually make this f***ing video. If I see one more article written about me saying how I’m ‘sick,’ I’m ‘grossly underweight’, [that I’m] ‘health crisis Jack’ … It’s f***ing insane,” he vented via Instagram in May. “I have lost no weight since I got out of the jungle doing I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! six months ago.”

“I’ve been the same f***ing weight. The only difference is I shaved my beard and opted for a creepy mustache. That’s the only f***ing difference,” he added. “I’ve been slowly but consistently losing weight for the last three and a half years. I shot up to about 220 pounds about three and a half years ago and decided that I wanted to make some changes, so I did.”

Everyone loves a good anti-hero who can blur the lines between good and evil. These characters aren’t just sympathetic villains, but individuals who lack specific heroic traits, like Link from The Legend of Zelda, yet still move the plot forward through individual goals that can sometimes be considered good. They also aren’t heroes who bend the rules sometimes, like Leon from Resident Evil.

Fans love these types of characters because they are complicated, messy, and more relatable, with everything they do shaping the good or bad inside them. That is why this list will rank the ten greatest video game anti-heroes of all time based on writing, characterization, development, moral ambiguity, flaws, relatability, and overall quality.

10

Geralt of Rivia

‘The Witcher’ Games (2007–Present)

Image via CD Projekt

Fantasy games take one of two approaches: either a whimsical world full of adventure, or a dark and bleak existence. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is part of the latter, meaning there are many anti-heroes, including the protagonist, Geralt of Rivia. As a Witcher, he faces constant discrimination, yet he continues to do whatever job he is paid to do, simply existing for monster hunting and coin.

However, his motives and goals evolve far beyond monster hunting and coin later in the series, with him trying to protect Ciri and needing to choose lesser evils. His personality and cynical views shaped by the bleak world can’t help but steer his decisions even if he wants to do the right thing, making him a fantastic protagonist in one of the best video games of the past century.

9

Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi)

‘Mortal Kombat’ Games (1992–Present)

Image via NetherRealm Studios

Mortal Kombat is one of the greatest fighting game franchises of all time, and any good fighting game needs a roster of engaging characters. Mortal Kombat has a lot of brutal personalities, but the one who sticks out the most is Scorpion. After his family was murdered by Sub-Zero, he spends the rest of his life and afterlife hunting him down until he can drag Sub-Zero into hell.

Scorpion used to just be a badass video game character who said “get over here,” but the modern reboot has evolved him into an anti-hero. He doesn’t give up on killing or his revenge, but it is a sort of noble vengeance that drives him. By the end of the games, he has restored his clan, come to terms with his past atrocities, and made peace with the younger version of Sub-Zero.

8

Wario

‘Super Mario’ Games (1985–Present)

Image via Nintendo

Most anti-heroes are meant to be taken seriously, as they are deeply flawed, compelling, and they work best in a mature setting. However, Wario proves that even silly characters can be anti-heroes. He doesn’t have too big of a focus on many narratives, but his greed drives every instinct in his body, whether that makes him an enemy or an ally of Mario and friends.

Maybe Wario is still villainous, but that is just because of his unwavering greed, which can also make him do good, even if he doesn’t mean it. He is the definition of a selfish video game character whose goals only lie in personal motivation. Wario is a fun parody and too stubborn to lose, proving why he is a beloved video game character.

7

Kazuma Kiryu

‘Yakuza’ Games (2005–Present)

Image via SEGA

The Yakuza franchise is one of the most bizarre, but players can’t help but get sucked into its world and characters, such as the anti-hero Kazuma Kiryu. He is a yakuza enforcer who operates outside the law, which doesn’t sound too anti-hero-like until fans learn about his moral code and the fact that he doesn’t even want to be a yakuza member.

Despite surrounding himself with yakuza and a villainous life, Kiryu aims to free himself of these shackles, deconstructing the glorification of organized crime. He is a bright anomaly inside the underworld, trying his best to do the right thing when he is forced to be the bad guy, highlighting his character arc and unwavering good inside him.

6

Max Payne

‘Max Payne’ Games (2001–2012)

Image via Rockstar Games

Rockstar Games is known for making morally ambiguous games with anti-hero protagonists, with a couple on this list, starting with Max Payne. After a group of junkies murders his wife and child, Max has nothing else to live for and decides to go on a killing spree. His rampage takes him through the underworld of New York City, getting back on anyone who is even remotely evil.

If “Woe Is Me” were a character, it would be Max Payne, who constantly suffers in his own grief and despair. Killing hundreds of people isn’t exactly a good thing, but at least none of them are considered good people. His suicidal mission is driven completely by revenge, grief, and depression, which results in one of the best action video games of all time.

5

Booker DeWitt

‘BioShock Infinite’ (2013)

Image via 2K Games

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There aren’t many morally righteous characters in the BioShock franchise at all, and who would be with society looking like that? But it seems the best there can be is Booker DeWitt, the protagonist of BioShock Infinite. He is a disgraced agent and a veteran who sold his daughter to pay off his debts, but he takes on a job to rescue a girl named Elizabeth to free himself of his financial issues.

Booker is a definitive example of what an anti-hero should be. He drives the story through his selfish goals and features a troubled backstory where he was clearly in the wrong. Yet despite his shortcomings, he forms an authentic bond with Elizabeth and fights the true evil in this world. By the end of BioShock Infinite, Booker is a complicated character who must make the toughest sacrifice ever, completing his character arc.

4

Shadow the Hedgehog

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ Games (1991–Present)

Image via SEGA

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Wario isn’t the only character on this list from a platforming franchise, as Shadow the Hedgehog is just as iconic from the Sonic the Hedgehog game series. He was created in order to be the perfect lifeform, but this gave him a cynical life view, and when the only light in his world died, he lost all goodwill. However, he slowly gains it back, switching between villain and hero depending on the game.

Shadow the Hedgehog used to be a full-fledged villain, but he is such a universally beloved character that he now adopts more of an anti-hero role. He serves as a perfect foil to Sonic, only making a noble sacrifice after remembering his past. However, since his original appearance, Shadow has worked together with Sonic for good while maintaining his dark and edgy style.

3

Joel Miller

‘The Last of Us’ Games (2013–Present)

Image via Naughty Dog

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Some of the best anti-heroes are also part of the greatest video game narratives, including the top three characters on this list, starting with Joel Miller from The Last of Us. After watching his family die in the zombie apocalypse, he is a grizzled veteran who does whatever it takes to survive. But his paternal instincts kick back in when he must escort Ellie across the country and help find a cure.

The years of fighting for his life pushed him to do evil things, but it was all necessary for his survival. This is especially seen as his bond with Ellie grows over the course of the game. He softens up and begins to feel again, but this love is exactly what makes him an anti-hero. Joel acts based on selfish love, ending in a shocking plot twist that remains a staple in the community, highlighting why The Last of Us is an influential video game.

2

Arthur Morgan

‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ (2018)

Image via Rockstar Games

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As mentioned, Rockstar Games loves their flawed protagonists, and their greatest one yet is Arthur Morgan from Red Dead Redemption 2. He is the leader of a cowboy gang set in 1899, the dying era of the Wild West. When Arthur learns of his tuberculosis, he sets out on one final adventure across the American Frontier in search of redemption, to make up for all the bad he has done.

Arthur’s change of heart doesn’t come from some awakening, but through the bleak reality of his impending doom. He has done many bad things, but his one last mission is to leave the Earth having done something good for once: saving John Marston and his family. Unfortunately, his redemption comes too late, cementing him as a profound character in an unforgettable narrative.

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Kratos

‘God of War’ Games (2005–Present)

Image via PlayStation Studios

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Kratos is one of the greatest video game characters of all time, and while he definitely wasn’t an anti-hero in the original God of War games, the 2018 reboot made him into one. After a life of murder and killing, he was exhausted from it all and left for a Norse region where he fell in love and had a child. Unfortunately, the death of his wife and attacks by the gods bring back his old habits.

Throughout the game, Kratos tries to be a good father, but he can’t help but be harsh due to his past nature and the dire situation. He begins to let go of his old selfish reasons for killing and does it to protect Atreus. Still, his growth is earned because Kratos remains a brutal killer who tries to better himself, yet can’t fully commit, highlighting why God of War has the best character development in gaming history.

What a year it’s been for Tom Hardy, who was once again battling allegations that he could be a troublesome presence on set following the news that he had been fired from MobLand. The rumors of Hardy’s firing have since been put to bed, and it’s been confirmed that he will return as Harry Da Souza, should the show be renewed for Season 3. He will also be seen in Season 2 of the show, which begins streaming in less than two months, on September 18. Hardy is fresh off his three-time role as Eddie Brock in the Venom movies, which never quite managed to win the hearts of critics. However, this wasn’t an issue for Sony, as the studio pocketed over $1.5 billion from the franchise over the course of three movies.

We’re now more than 10 years removed from the biggest year of Tom Hardy’s career, when he starred in two of the biggest projects of his life. Hardy earned his first and only Oscar nomination for his performance as John Fitzgerald in The Revenant, the sweeping Western epic directed by Alejandro G. Iñárittu, who is soon to direct Tom Cruise in Digger. However, back in 2015, Hardy also starred in the most successful sci-fi movie of his career, Mad Max: Fury Road, which was written and directed by the great George Miller. Mad Max: Fury Road won six Oscars at the 2016 Academy Awards, including Best Film Editing, Best Costume Design, Best Hair and Makeup, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing, and Best Production Design. All these years later, Mad Max: Fury Road is still a streaming super-hit, solidifying it as one of the most successful streaming movies of Tom Hardy’s career.

What Is ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ About?

The official synopsis for Mad Max: Fury Road reads as follows: “In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy) is captured by the tyrannical Immortan Joe and forced into servitude. When rebel warrior Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) leads a daring escape with Joe’s five wives, Max joins her explosive fight for freedom. Racing across the desert in a war party of chrome and fire, they battle for survival, redemption, and a chance at a better future.” Mad Max: Fury Road earned a nearly perfect score of 97% from critics to pair with a solid 86% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. The film grossed over $380 million at the box office against a $150 million budget — it was a success, but not as much as the reviews might allude to. It was once streaming on HBO Max before being removed from the platform.

Check out Mad Max: Fury Road on VOD platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV and stay tuned to Collider for more updates and coverage of Hardy’s future projects.

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Release Date

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May 15, 2015

Runtime

121 minutes

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Director

George Miller

Writers

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Brendan McCarthy, George Miller, Nico Lathouris

Producers

Doug Mitchell, P.J. Voeten

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Liam Neeson had a period, a golden age if you will, where he was the King of Geriaction. Hollywood had decided, after Taken proved to be a bizarrely big hit, that Big Liam could be dropped into absolutely any dangerous situation and audiences would happily watch him fight his way out. Kidnappers, terrorists, unruly passengers, angry commuters — the opposition didn’t matter as long as Neeson punched someone. But along the way, one of the best movies from Neeson’s unexpected transformation into an action star barely resembles the films that followed it.

More than a decade after its release, Joe Carnahan’s relentlessly bleak survival thriller, The Grey, remains one of the most overlooked movies of Neeson’s career and an essential streaming watch. The Grey currently carries an impressive 81% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, and while it was a success when it arrived in 2012, the movie has become somewhat lost among the seemingly endless action thrillers Neeson subsequently made. That’s a shame, because The Grey is considerably more ambitious than its wonderfully straightforward “Liam Neeson versus wolves” reputation suggests.

‘The Grey’ Is Much More Than Liam Neeson Fighting Wolves

Neeson stars as John Ottway, a sharpshooter employed to protect oil workers in Alaska from wolves. When the plane carrying Ottway and several workers crashes deep in the frozen wilderness, the survivors suddenly find themselves stranded miles from civilization. The weather is trying to kill them. Their injuries are trying to kill them. And, yes, an extremely territorial pack of wolves is also trying to kill them.

The Grey performed respectably at the box office, earning approximately $81 million worldwide against a reported $25 million production budget. Critics were particularly impressed, with its 81% Rotten Tomatoes score making it one of the best-reviewed films from Neeson’s post-Taken action run.

The Grey also stars Frank Grillo (Tulsa King) as John Diaz, Dermot Mulroney (Zodiac) as Jerome Talget, Dallas Roberts (The Walking Dead) as Pete Hendrick, Joe Anderson (Across the Universe) as Todd Flannery, Nonso Anozie (Game of Thrones) as Jackson Burke, James Badge Dale (The Departed) as Luke Lewenden, and Ben Bray (Gone Baby Gone) as Hernandez.

The Grey is streaming now on Netflix.

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Release Date

January 26, 2012

Runtime

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117 minutes

Director

Joe Carnahan

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