By Brian Myers
| Published 53 seconds ago

A soundtrack can make or break a film. Imagine Pulp Fiction, The Crow, or even Forrest Gump without the carefully curated songs to accompany the action on-screen or to provide interludes between scenes.

A soundtrack that truly captured the essence of the film like no other was from the 1985 horror comedy Return of the Living Dead. It not only worked to accentuate the cinematography but also gave the 1980s one of the greatest punk rock collections of all time, and it is now streaming for free.

Return of the Living Dead isn’t a sequel to Night of the Living Dead (1968) in the literal sense, but rather a spoof of what a sequel might look like. It assumes that the events from the classic Romero zombie film happened, but that it was quickly contained by the military.

The plot involves a lone zombie corpse in a barrel of Trioxin gas mistakenly sent to a medical supply warehouse. There it was stored for years before being disturbed by curious employees.

After the barrel is opened and the gas leaks out, it infects a cadaver that’s being stored in the medical supply house’s morgue. This causes the body to reanimate and attack the employees. The body is taken to a nearby incinerator, but the fumes from the Trioxin work to create a low-lying fog that seeps into the ground of a nearby cemetery.

Return of the Living Dead sees the bodies rise from their graves, just as a group of young punks have invaded the grounds one evening for a night of partying. The debauchery the teens have planned gets interrupted in the worst way as the zombies make their way from their tombs so that they can feed on human brains. It becomes a question of who will survive the attacks and how they will make it out of the cemetery.

The film has the corny dialogue you might expect from a horror-comedy which is on par with the B-movie acting. But the special effects are fantastic, the work of Bob and Kevin McCarthy on par with anything Tom Savini created under the direction of Romero for Dawn of the Dead or Day of the Dead. But the real contribution Return of the Living Dead made was the list of songs that played throughout its 91-minute streaming time.

Return of the Living Dead‘s streaming soundtrack begins with “Surfin’ Dead” by psychobilly band The Cramps, before leading into the punk rock classic “Party Time” by 45 Grave. T.S.O.L.’s heavy hitting “Nothin’ for You,” The Flesh Eaters’ “Eyes Without a Face,” and The Damned’s “Dead Beat Dance,” all work to give the film the right sounds for both the partying and the zombie attacks on the screen.

Return of the Living Dead also featured garage band icon Roky Erickson (formerly of The 13th Floor Elevators) with his single “Burn the Flame.”

The film was a box-office success, grossing more than $14 million on a budget of only $4 million. Return of the Living Dead spawned several sequels as well, though none with a soundtrack as iconic as the original. The sequels, like the original, are also available on various streaming services.

The movie’s contributions to the zombie horror genre are every bit as significant as Romero’s original zombie movies and the modern-day series The Walking Dead. Return of the Living Dead was one of the first to weave comedy into an otherwise frightening set of circumstances.

Return of the Living Dead is streaming for free on Pluto, Tubi, and Roku, or rent it On Demand with Vudu, AppleTV, and Prime.

RELATED: All Eyes! Beyoncé’s Return And The Biggest Met Gala 2026 Moments Of The Night

Proud Dad Jay-Z Watches Blue Ivy Steal Spotlight

In a circulating clip obtained by Entertainment Tonight, Blue Ivy was confidently doing her thing on the red carpet while cameras caught Jay-Z at the bottom of the steps laughing alongside publicist Yvette Noel-Schure, both visibly beaming as all eyes stayed on her. Continuously, Jay looked every bit the proud dad, eventually making his way up the steps to assist her, offering his arm and posing for photos together. At one point, he even flashed a thumbs up to photographers, clearly soaking in the moment as his daughter held her own on one of fashion’s biggest stages.

The Comments Said What They Said

Folks wasted no time running to the Entertainment Tonight Instagram comment section, and let’s just say—everyone had something to say. Some were convinced Blue Ivy Carter is Jay-Z’s twin, while others stood ten toes down, claiming she’s giving nothing but Beyoncé. And of course, plenty of folks were just happy to see her outside, living her best life with parents who clearly don’t play about their baby girl.

One Instagram user, @kimberlyvivecacreations, said, “I love this look on her. She is a whole vibe 🔥❤️”

This Instagram user @beyond_the_ce added, “BLUE BLUEEE AHHHH❤️🙌”

And, Instagram user @anniedadiva_ commented, “Proud dad moment 😂😂🔥🔥🔥”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @sorigaby shared, “Proud papa!!!! That look JZ gave Blue ivy is Beautiful!“

While Instagram user @btention claimed, “She is a mini me of her mom.“

Lastly, Instagram user @thomasbennie72 wrote, “Take your time baby you doing great you got this and you know it“

Beyoncé Gushes Over Blue Ivy’s Red Carpet Moment

And if there was any question about who runs things in the Carter household, Beyoncé made it very clear she doesn’t play when it comes to her baby girl. While speaking with La La Anthony for Vogue at the top of the Met steps, Bey kept the focus right where it belonged—on Blue Ivy Carter. When asked how it felt to be back after a decade, she called the moment “surreal” because her daughter was there, adding that Blue looked “so beautiful” and “incredible,” like a proud mama who already knows what’s up. Beyoncé even shared that she was most excited to experience the night through Blue’s eyes, and both she and La La joked that everyone could probably take a few red carpet notes from the Carter princess—because clearly, Blue isn’t just attending, she’s setting the tone.

Timothée Chalamet raised eyebrows after skipping the Met Gala despite being in New York City while his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, attended the star-studded fashion event.

The actor was reportedly spotted at the New York Knicks’ playoff game against the Philadelphia 76ers instead, fueling chatter that he may have “snubbed” Jenner on one of fashion’s biggest nights. However, his absence has also been linked to an alleged Met Gala “curse,” though neither Chalamet nor Jenner has confirmed that it played any role in his decision.

The couple, who has been dating for more than two years, have become increasingly public with their romance in recent months.

Chalamet and Jenner have made several public appearances together since taking their romance public, but the Met Gala was one high-profile event they reportedly chose not to attend as a pair.

Jenner still made an appearance at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, stepping out in a tailored, corseted Schiaparelli look. Chalamet, however, spent the night at Madison Square Garden, where he watched the New York Knicks take on the Philadelphia 76ers in an NBA playoff game.

According to SheKnows, the decision may have been a deliberate attempt to avoid the so-called Met Gala “curse,” a fan-fueled theory that claims couples who attend the fashion event together often split not long afterward.

The theory has been tied to Jenner’s own past, as she previously attended the 2018 Met Gala with Travis Scott before the pair eventually went their separate ways. Although they later reconciled, their relationship ultimately ended for good.

Advertisement

Timothée Chalamet And Kylie Jenner Attended A Broadway Event In New York

Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner were spotted leaving a showing of ‘Fear of 13’ on Broadway in New York. pic.twitter.com/4vf76dBFBt

— timothée chalamet nation (@timotheenation) May 4, 2026

Chalamet and Jenner were seen together over the weekend as they stepped out for a Broadway performance of “The Fear of 13,” which was produced by Jenner’s older sister, Kim Kardashian.

In videos making the rounds online, the couple was seen arriving hand in hand at the venue from a black Jeep. Chalamet kept things casual for the outing in a blue windbreaker, gray pants, and white sneakers, while Jenner wore an all-black outfit under a trench coat and completed the look with thong heels.

The pair also appeared eager to keep a low profile. Chalamet wore a dark baseball cap that partially covered his face, while Jenner shielded her eyes with dark sunglasses.

Advertisement

The Couple Also Made An Appearance At A Basketball Game

Days earlier, the couple was also spotted at the New York Knicks’ playoff clash against the Atlanta Hawks, marking another high-profile appearance together in New York City.

At the game, Chalamet and Jenner briefly interacted with fans as they made their way through the arena. The pair also shared a cozy moment during their walk-in, with Jenner wrapping an arm around the actor as they kissed.

Once settled into their courtside seats, the two appeared completely absorbed in the atmosphere of the game. They were seen laughing, talking, and reacting to the action on the court.

In one snapshot, the duo clapped and cheered enthusiastically for the Knicks, with Chalamet at one point rising to his feet and shouting in excitement.

The Love Birds Are Living Together

Chalamet and Jenner have been linked since 2023, but they kept their relationship largely low-key until recently.

Earlier this year, reports claimed that the pair had been living together for more than a year, a development that appeared to signal just how serious their romance had become.

Advertisement

At the time, a source told Page Six that it felt “like they’re basically married already,” adding that they were “obsessed with each other and always together.”

The insider also claimed Chalamet has gradually become more involved in the lives of Jenner’s children, Stormi, 7, and Aire Webster, 3, whom she shares with her ex, Travis Scott.

Timothée Chalamet And Kylie Jenner Might Want Kids Together

Chalamet and Jenner have not publicly confirmed any specific plans to have children together, but both have previously suggested they are open to expanding their families in the future.

In March, Jenner told Vanity Fair that she intends to spend the final years of her 20s focusing on her career and personal life. After that, she said she hopes to have more children, though she did not say whether that would be with Chalamet.

For his part, Chalamet told Vogue in a previous cover story that starting a family “could be on the radar.”

Advertisement

The actor also reflected on a video he had watched in which someone bragged about not having children and having more time to pursue other interests. Chalamet described that mindset as “bleak,” further suggesting that he may be open to fatherhood in the future.

Fans crave excitement and a way to escape from the plain, boring world and everyday life, which is why the fantasy genre is so popular. Whether it be the fantastical creatures, the whimsical world, or the bright and unique festivals, this genre is an escape that is rich with storytelling potential. Anime in particular delivers some standout fantasy series, including Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic and the newly released Witch Hat Atelier.

This diverse genre can be done in thousands of different ways, and anime has achieved many of them, which is why this list will rank the ten greatest fantasy anime of all time. Based on story, animation, creativity, worldbuilding, lore, characters, fan opinion, critical acclaim, overall quality, themes such as good vs evil, the hero’s journey, courage, and aspects including imaginative worlds, systems, and magic, these shows are the perfect escape.

10

‘Konosuba: God’s Blessing on this Wonderful World!’ (2016-present)

Image via Studio Deen

The best part about fantasies is that almost any other genre can fit inside of it as well, such as comedy, and Konosuba: God’s Blessing on this Wonderful World proves that. When Kazuma suddenly passes away, he is given a new chance at life in a fantasy world. Given the option to take something with him, he chooses the goddess speaking to him; little does he know that she is useless, making his new start harder than expected.

Konosuba’s story is secondary, but it also offers a fun adventure every now and then, where they travel to new areas and fight a member of the demon king’s army. However, the appeal of this show is its parody-style comedy that satirizes the isekai genre and makes fun of its tropes. Konosuba is a hilarious anime with a cast full of endearing idiots, but that is what makes every episode and adventure special.

9

‘Dorohedoro’ (2020-present)

Image via Crunchyroll

Fantasy comes in all different types of shapes and sizes, and Dorohedoro is perhaps one of the most unique series out there. The Hole is a decrepit place where sorcerers come to experiment with their magic on the civilians. Caiman is one such product that has the head of an alligator and no memories. By killing and questioning wizards, Caiman hopes to regain his memory and his former appearance.

It may not be the typical fantasy that fans think of, but with magic, sorcery, creatures, and an adventure-focused plot that has the protagonist learning about his past, Dorohedoro is definitely a fantasy. The worldbuilding is absolutely phenomenal, using events, festivals, and celebrations to create a lived-in experience that alters the story. Dorohedoro is chaotically pleasant with quirky characters, gritty action, gory moments, and surreal humor, making it a modern anime masterpiece that more fans need to check out.

8

‘Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation’ (2021-present)

Image via Studio Bind

The Isekai genre is a controversial one, but it usually goes hand-in-hand with fantasy; an especially polarizing anime is Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation. After living an unfulfilling life, Rudeus is reborn in a fantasy world where he plans to make the most of his second chance. However, old habits die hard, making his tumultuous journey in this world even more difficult.

Rudeus’ character is a decidedly controversial one, but no matter what they think of him, fans have to admit that the show’s worldbuilding is stellar and the animation is absolutely stunning. Mushoku Tensei is one of the best visual fantasies, creating a charming and authentic experience unlike anything else in the medium. With a winding plot and profound character development, this anime is a definitive fantasy isekai.

7

‘Delicious in Dungeon’ (2024-present)

Image via Studio Trigger

The modern era has given fans some of the best fantasy series, and one of them is Delicious in Dungeon. After a dragon eats the healer of a party, the group suits up to go back into the dungeon and save her before the dragon digests her. However, with no money, supplies, or food, they decide to make meals out of the monsters they meet, but food might be the last of their worries.

Food is a big part of fantasy, but Delicious in Dungeon takes it to a whole new level by creating a monster biology and creature cookbook that blends seamlessly. The gourmet creations and monster worldbuilding are a fascinating approach that adds so much fun to each episode and enhances the journey. Delicious in Dungeon also excels with its dramatic plot shift midway through, which really kick-started the story.

Image via Crunchyroll

With guns, semi-modern civilization, and a scientific power system, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood doesn’t feel too much like a fantasy, but it features enough content to be considered one. After brothers Ed and Al lose parts or all of their bodies in a taboo experiment, they set out on an adventure to find the philosopher’s stone. But when they learn of a government conspiracy, they need to stop it or risk losing the entire world.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is considered the best anime of all time, which may make it surprising that it is so low on this list. However, it doesn’t embody the fantasy elements as well as other series, almost serving as a merger between many genres. Still, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood became a sensation because of its engaging plot with fascinating worldbuilding, an intriguing power system, and engaging characters.

5

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011-2014)

Battle shounen are the most popular type of anime, and many of them are fantasy variants, including Hunter x Hunter, which fans one day hope will actually get an ending. Gon dreams of finding the father who abandoned him; the only thing Gon knows is that his father is a hunter. Now of age, Gon sets out on the same path as his dad, but becoming a hunter will introduce a new set of challenges and trauma.

Hunter x Hunter is a master at subverting expectations, starting with a typical shonen adventure and evolving into a profound and philosophical drama with action, political intrigue, and intense character development. It follows a form of the hero’s journey, and with plenty of adventure, characters, and fantastical events, Hunter x Hunter is a definitive anime series and a distinct fantasy experience.

4

‘Mushi-Shi’ (2005-2014)

Image via Artland

Advertisement

Fantasy doesn’t always need to be set in an alternate world; sometimes the greatest adventures take place in one’s own backyard. Mushi-Shi follows Ginko, a researcher investigating the mysterious creatures known as Mushi and the strange phenomena that occur around them. Traveling across the country, Ginko encoutners many spirits and peculiar cases.

Mushi-Shi doesn’t follow a specific grand story; instead, each episode offers a slice of comfort and magic. This whimsical anime is relaxing and soothing, taking fans through atmospheric settings and melancholic stories. Sadly, Mushi-Shi is a rather unknown anime that deserves far more love, especially because of its mystical approach to creatures and the mystery surrounding them.

3

‘One Piece’ (1999-present)

Image via Toei Animation

Advertisement

Fantasy isn’t just dragons and magic; sometimes it reveals itself in the shape of pirates exploring the vast ocean and the bizarre islands. One Piece follows Monkey D. Luffy, an ambitious pirate who wants to find the titular treasure. However, to do so, he must build a crew and a name for himself, which he does by sailing the seas and challenging any evil pirates, marines, or government officials.

Anime has a broad definition of fantasy, and this is shown by the fact that One Piece is a fantasy. There may be guns, scientific experiments, and pirate mischief, but its creativity creates a unique world with islands made out of cake and giants roaming a folklore land. One Piece has many great arcs, making up a gargantuan story with some of the best worldbuilding in anime.

2

‘Berserk’ (1997-1998)

Image via Nippon TV

Advertisement

Even some of the best manga don’t translate well to anime, and Berserk knows this all too well. However, there is one good adaptation, and it earns its spot on this list. Guts has experienced a living hell since birth, but when he believes things might just be going his way, a brutal betrayal takes everything from him. Now, Guts is on a blood-fueled quest for revenge.

Berserk might be the greatest fantasy story ever told; unfortunately, the anime doesn’t fully do it justice, but that is still enough for it to land at number two on this list. The world blends multiple time periods together to create a vicious yet captivating fantasy world, and its story of revenge and political warfare is yet another landmark that highlights its excellence and domination of the genre. The Berserk manga is continuing, meaning fans can keep enjoying this story in multiple mediums.

1

‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ (2023-present)

Image via Madhouse

Advertisement

Most of these anime needed years to establish themselves as greats, but in only a short amount of time, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has cemented itself as the best fantasy anime ever. Years after defeating the demon king, the heroes’ party slowly died off, except for the titular elf, who regrets not getting to understand them more. Now on a nostalgic journey with their pupils, Frieren plans to see them again in the land of the dead.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End subverted the typical fantasy format by delivering a passionate adventure where the side quests and detours are all the fun. Whether it be a fun little side adventure, a profound life lesson, or a grand battle against some monster, each episode is a fantastical delight. Each new season of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End becomes one of the most anticipated anime shows, and with plenty more in store, fans won’t want this journey to end.

The Met Gala has always been as much about romance as it is about fashion, with celebrity couples often using the iconic steps as their stage. This year, however, the energy shifted. 

As cameras flashed and designers were celebrated, a noticeable pattern emerged as many of the biggest stars arrived without their equally famous partners. 

From newly engaged pairs skipping their debut to long-time couples breaking tradition, the absence of key partners became one of the most talked-about twists of the night.

The Met Gala red carpet is often a stage for high-profile couples to show off their chemistry, but several A-list stars arrived without their partners this year. 

Advertisement

Among the most talked-about absences was Harry Styles, who failed to accompany his fiancée Zoë Kravitz just days after news of their engagement broke. 

According to the Daily Mail, fans had expected a major debut, but instead, Kravitz appeared alone, and notably without her diamond ring, sending a subtle but confusing message.

Timothée Chalamet also skipped the event, leaving girlfriend Kylie Jenner to walk solo for the second year in a row. 

Rather than attending fashion’s biggest night, the actor chose to watch a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden. 

Advertisement

His absence quickly drew criticism, with some labeling him a “bad boyfriend,” especially given Jenner’s visible support for him throughout awards season during his campaign for “Marty Supreme.”

Met Gala Absences Spark Questions And Criticism

Another surprising no-show at the Met Gala was Justin Trudeau, who did not appear alongside Katy Perry. 

The former Canadian prime minister, who has recently been seen closely with the pop star during yacht outings and at Coachella, was absent without explanation.

Trudeau’s recent public behavior has already sparked conversation, with critics accusing him of having a “midlife crisis” following his 2023 divorce. 

Advertisement

Other stars also found themselves navigating the spotlight alone. Gigi Hadid walked the red carpet solo, although she later reunited with Bradley Cooper inside the event. 

Vittoria Ceretti, meanwhile, continued her usual pattern of attending events without Leonardo DiCaprio, who is known for avoiding public appearances and often disguising himself with hats and masks.

Met Gala Night Leaves Kardashian-Jenner Clan Without Their Men

Kylie Jenner wasn’t the only Kardashian-Jenner family member to attend the Met Gala without their partner. 

The socialite’s solo appearance was mirrored by her older sister Kim Kardashian, who stunned in a metallic orange bodysuit and leather skirt but arrived without her boyfriend, Lewis Hamilton.

Advertisement

Hamilton may have had a valid reason for missing the event, as he had just competed in the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, where he placed sixth. 

The timing of the race, which concluded only a day before the Met Gala, likely made it difficult for him to attend.

Hailey Bieber, Jenner’s longtime friend also appeared without her husband Justin Bieber. While his absence sparked discussion, it wasn’t entirely unexpected. 

Some fans have suggested in the past that Justin avoids red carpets to ensure Hailey remains the center of attention, while others have criticized his casual style for clashing with her polished looks.

Advertisement

Met Gala Spotlight Falls On Blake Lively Without Ryan Reynolds

Blake Lively’s Met Gala appearance carried a different kind of weight, as it came just hours after she settled her long-running legal battle with Justin Baldoni’s production company. 

While the settlement avoided a high-profile trial, the terms were not disclosed. Ryan Reynolds, who had supported her throughout the ordeal, was notably absent from the red carpet.

Despite this, Lively embraced the moment, stepping out in a dramatic gown featuring a sequined halter top and a voluminous multicolored skirt. 

Her solo appearance placed full attention on her personal milestone, even without her husband by her side.

Advertisement

Met Gala Still Delivers Romance As Some Couples Show Up Together

Even with many solo arrivals, the Met Gala still delivered a few traditional couple moments. 

Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster attended together, holding hands and presenting a coordinated, elegant look.

A$AP Rocky also maintained his steady presence by Rihanna’s side, continuing their pattern of attending events together while raising their three children.

Longtime couples like Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor also made a notable return, while newlyweds Venus Williams and Andrea Preti brought fresh energy to the event.   

Other standout pairs included Jon Batiste and Suleika Jaouad, Rebecca Hall and Morgan Spector, and Adrien Brody with Georgina Chapman, all embracing the “Fashion Is Art” theme together. 

Advertisement

Leading the night were co-chairs Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Williams, alongside Anna Wintour, ensuring the Met Gala remained a spectacle.

If there’s any genre seemingly predicated on building up to a exciting climax it’s action. They end with epic battles, explosive gunfights, nail-biting chases and the occasional special effects extravanganza. Action is all about tension and release, and there’s no better release than a climax. Forgive the crude metaphor, but its apt and action movies climax like no other genre can. At least the good ones do. Good action movies know when to hold back so that they don’t let their best action sequence occur too early in the runtime, or if they do, they at least know to climax with something smarter or more emotionally satisfying.

Not all of the best action movie climaxes represent the greatest or most memorable moments in their respective movies, but they all end them on a high note. They can wrap things up narratively or just kick some serious ass. Unsurprisingly, the best action climaxes all come from movies that are all basically classics across the board. It’s time to skip the foreplay and, like JD Vance when he sees a leather sectional, go straight to the climax with these ten action movies.

10

‘Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning’ (2023)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Several of the Mission: Impossible movies have incredible climaxes. Fallout has a heartstopping helicopter chase, Mission: Impossible II has some top tier John Woo ridiculousness, and The Final Reckoning is an all-timer of an aerial stunt show. The best climax of the entire franchise, though, is the extended train sequence from Dead Reckoning. Beginning with Tom Cruise jumping a motorcycle off a cliff, and finishing with a dangling train that bears more than a passing resemblance to a sequence from the video game Uncharted 2, Dead Reckoning showcases all the best elements that the Christopher McQuarrie era of the franchise is known for.

Serving as a convergence for plot threads and characters, the train climax sees characters new and old all vying to take posession of the cruciform key, the film’s MacGuffin that can also put a stop to the evil artificial intelligence known as the Entity. Grace (Hayley Atwell) is in disguise as the White Widow (Vanessa Kirby) making a deal with Kitteridge (Henry Czerny) while the villainous Gabriel (Esai Morales) is busy making bodies and Ethan Hunt (Cruise) parachutes in. It rides a razor’s edge of comprehension and tension, but McQuarrie has an undervalued understanding of action geography that makes the whole sequence work. It ends with literal cliffhanger before leading into a narrative one, and it’s an all around masterclass in action.

9

‘RoboCop’ (1987)

Image via Orion Pictures

Paul Verhoeven’s hyperviolent satire RoboCop ends as many 80s action movies did. It has lots of blood, bullets and explosions and it takes place in an industrial setting. It also features a melting man who gets hit by a car and turned into a puddle, a villain who gets his jugular opened with a metal spike and Robo walking on water like mechanized Jesus. It’s the perfect summation of a film that fully engages with the excess of its era of action movies but does so with a subversive purpose. Every action fan has every moment of it permanently tattooed on their brain and if they were one of those who saw the movie at too young an age, it might have even been a totemic trauma point.

After having had the full Detroit police force unleashed on him by their corrupt corporate overlords, RoboCop (Peter Weller) takes refuge in the same steel mill where he died as a human. Along with his partner Lewis (Nancy Allen), he faces off against the criminals who once pumped him full of bullets and takes them out one by one in brutally violent, and darkly humorous, fashion. RoboCop is an action masterpiece of bloody brutally that climaxes with its most gruesome kill and its most satisfying villain execution.

8

‘The Matrix’ (1999)

Image via Warner Bros.

The Matrix redefined the action genre at the end of the 20th century, combining a dozen disparate influences into one cohesive action whole that held heavy influence over the genre for the next decade. The film’s mix of kung-fu, gun-fu and bullet time effects made it stand out at the end of a decade defined by high concept action, and all three are well represented in its subway fight climax. If not the best one-on-one fight in a martial arts movie, it’s certainly one of the most indelible, and it remains just as effective over two decades later.

After having successfully saved Morpheus (Laurence FIshburne) from the clutches of Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving), Neo (Keanu Reeves) has to face off against the formidable Smith one on one. Their climactic fight features fisticuffs and wire work, all choreographed by the legendary Yuen Woo-Ping, who had directed and choreographed a number of high profile martial arts movies which caught the attention of the Wachowskis. More than just the technical proficiency of it, the climax of The Matrix is a pivotal moment in the character development of Neo and his fulfillment of his prophecy. The Matrix was a cultural phenomenon and its climax is the perfect coda to the 90s era of action movies.

7

‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ (1981)

Image via Lucasfilm

Raiders of the Lost Ark is basically a series of iconic scenes strung together. From the brilliant opening where Indiana Jones runs from boulder booby trap to the indelible final image where the Ark of the Covenant is locked away in a warehouse filled with other hidden artifacts, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas’ action-adventure classic fires on all cylinders. That applies to its climax as well, which manages to be just as thrilling and memorable even when it has its hero tied to a pole. It’s one of the most satisfying and visceral depictions of divine retribution ever put on film.

Bested by the Nazis in the race to take possession of the titular Ark, Jones (Harrison Ford) finds himself tied up alongside love interest Marion Ravenwood (Karen Allen) as the goose-stepping morons perform a ceremonial opening. Instead of unlimited power inside, they are confronted with vengeful spirits and the power of God, which promptly electrocutes, melts the faces off and blows up the heads of the villains in a spectacular effects display. The face-melting of the evil toady Toht (Ronald Lacey) is so violently gratifying that no villain death in any of the sequels has ever been able to measure up, which is a strong statement considering those villains suffered some memorable fates like death by crocodile, rapidly aging and disintegrating, and having their brain burst into flames from too much knowledge. The Indiana Jones franchise is weirdly yet awesomely violent and Raiders of the Lost Ark‘s is the best proof of that.

6

‘Mad Max 2’ (1981)

Image via Warner Bros.

The same year that Spielberg release his adventure masterpiece, George Miller unleashed his apocalyptic action classic Mad Max 2 (known as The Road Warrior in the United States). Returning to the world he had created with his original Ozploitation action film, Miller used his bigger budget to expand the scope and scale of it. From a dystopic world on the brink to a full-throttle post-apocalyptic wasteland, Mad Max is bigger and better than its predecessor in every way, including its climax. It’s a white-knuckle car chase through the desert that became so iconic and beloved that Miller would essentially turn the sequence into one long movie for Mad Max: Fury Road.

Some years after seeking his revenge for the death of his wife and son, Max (Mel Gibson) now wanders the wasteland as a leather-clad gunslinger scavenging to survive. He finds a small oil refinery and strikes a deal with its occupants to help transport their oil out and away from a group of violent marauders, which leads to the climactic chase with Max behind the wheel of a tanker truck. The climax is a hair-raising mix of kinetic camerawork, fast-paced editing and insane stunts, one of which sent a stuntman twirling through and earned his a broken leg. Mad Max 2 climaxes with one of the greatest car chases in cinematic history and which only Miller himself has been able to top.

5

‘The Wild Bunch’ (1969)

Image via Warner Bros.

Sam Peckinpah’s influence on the action genre cannot be overstated. His use of rapid editing, slow motion cinematography and brutal violence echoed through decades of filmmakers, with his influence directly impacting filmmakers like John Woo, Kathryn Bigelow and Michael Mann. His action scenes are some of the best of their respective eras, but none moreso than the climactic gunfight from his magnum opus revisionist Western The Wild Bunch. It’s a ballet of bullets and blood that contributed both to the film’s controversial status upon its initial release and its continued acclaim as an essential Western.

As a group of aging outlaws hang on to their old ways as the Old West disappears around them, they take up a job stealing guns for a ruthless Mexican General. After one of their own is taken captive by the General, the men decide to make one last stand against the corrupt leader and his armed forces. It’s four men against a hundred as bullets rip through bodies in visceral fashion. Peckinpah was insistent on showing the damage a bullet could do, and thus had special squibs made that packed a more bloody punch. He also made sure the sound effects for each gun was specific and distinct. It’s that attention to detail and emphasis on violence that makes the climax of The Wild Bunch still so effective. It’s the birth of the modern action movie shootout.

4

‘Police Story’ (1985)

Image via Golden Harvest

Jackie Chan’s Police Story begins and ends with its best action scenes. The opening shanty town shootout turned destructive car chase is iconic, and the mall brawl finale is equally so. The entire film represents some of Chan’s finest action choreography and most intense stunt work. Police Story was made after Chan had a disappointing experience filming The Protector, which was a co-production between the United States and Hong Kong and meant to break the martial arts star into the American market. It failed and Chan was frustrated by the production hampering his ability to properly choreograph more complex stunts. That frustration funneled into a passion that is clear in every frame of Police Story all the way through it’s nerve shattering climax.

As the final confrontation between Sergeant Chan (Chan) and the dangerous crime lord he has spent the full runtime of the film trying to stop, the climax leaves no stone unturned, or glass pane unshattered, as the cops and criminals throw hands, feet, arms and legs at each other. It crescendos in a stunt with Chan sliding down several stories on metal pole covered in lights, which ended up giving the star second degree burns on his hand and a dislocated pelvis after landing. Chan repeatedly put his body in peril for the purposes of entertainment, and the climac of Police Story is one of the most viscerally exciting examples of it.

3

‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)

Image via Tri-Star Pictures

Terminator 2: Judgment Day is James Cameron’s action masterpiece. It’s setpieces are second to none but what is even more impressive is how fluidly its action escalates and organicalyl flows from one scene to the next. The final act of the film begins with the infiltration of Cyberdyne which becomes a police siege which turns into a chase sequence which leads directly into the action-packed climax. Cameron’s ability to build tension before releasing it in dramatic fashion. Terminator 2′s climax compounds itself with a series of confrontations that peaks with an emotional final moment.

Pursued by the T-1000 (Robert Patrick) into a steel mill, the T-800 (Arnold Schwarzenegger) uses liquid nitrogen, a bullet and a one liner to shatter the liquid metal menace, who then reforms to continue his attempt to kill John Connor (Edward Furlong). The action continues, using a dynamic mix of visual effects, twin doubles and stunt work to create a seamless sequence that ends with the T-1000 dropped into a vat of molten metal for an iconic villain death. That moment is then quickly followed by the T-800 being lowered himself into the vat, giving the most moving thumbs up in movie history as he melts away. It’s not subtle and maybe too sentimental for some, but it’s the perfect period for a film that wears its emotions on its sleeve, and the action that comes before it is immaculate.

2

‘Hard Boiled’ (1992)

Image via Golden Princess Film Production

Hard Boiled, John Woo’s Hong Kong swan song to the Heroic Bloodshed genre he helped create, ends with an extended sequence set in a hospital that is a ballistic masterpiece of sustained action. The film itself, a cops and criminals thriller, is itself constructed around its three massive action set pieces. It opens with a stunning teahouse shootout, has an explosive warehouse gunfight halfway through, and then culminates with the hospital that fills every floor with action. Woo’s hyper-stylized action has its origins in the slow-motion sequences of Sam Peckinpah, and its populated with characters influenced by the work of Jean-Pierre Melville. The director synthesized it all into something all his own that in turn influenced a whole new generation of action filmmakers, and Hard Boiled is his action masterwork.

After taking turns trading blows while trying to take down a Triad gang from outside and in, Inspector Tequila (Chow Yun-fat) and undercover cop Alan (Tony Leung Chiu-wai) find themselves trapped in the hospital with an army of Triad members after them, and a hundred innocent civilians in between. Woo is known for his balletic action punctuated by moments of slow motion but of equal note is simply how destructive his action is. There are few action directors who fill the frame with as much debris as Woo does, and its wall to wall in this climax, especially during the iconic three-minute tracking shot of non-stop action. It’s a relentless climax that has never been topped in terms of pure chaos.

1

‘Seven Samurai’ (1954)

Image via Toho

Equally as influential on Woo, and just about every other action director, is Akira Kurosawa. The legendary filmmaker’s impact on modern cinema is immeasurable and his contributions to the action genre are just as immense. His masterpiece Seven Samurai may very well be the greatest film ever made, but could also be called the first modern action film. It’s sword fights are still impressive despite the film’s age, and the climactic rain-soaked battle is a technical marvel of choreographed bloodshed. No matter how many technological advancements have come after or how more violent, more large-scale or more explosive action scenes have become, there is no bettering this climax by one of the greatest directors of all time.

Establishing the oft-repeated action movie trope of a team assembled for a mission, the seven titular samurai are hired to defend a village from violent bandits. Battle between the samurai and bandits ensues, and erupts in the film’s final assault that takes place in a torrential downpour. The bandits ride into the village on horseback and the samurai cut them down so the villagers can skewer them one by one. The shot selection and clarity of action is the kind of cinematic perfection that’s taught in every film school. Kurosaw used multiple camera set ups and telephoto lenses to precisely capture the choreographed battle, and it still has a gritty, messy authenticity to it that many lesser filmmakers have been unable to replicate. More than it’s mere minutes of chaos and killing, the climax is an emotional one driven by character, as the previously mocked aspirant samurai Kikuchiyo (Toshiro Mifune) deals the final blow as he succumbs to his own wounds, earning his place among the other warriors in their graves on a hill. It’s everything any action fan could want.

Advertisement

Seven Samurai

Advertisement

Release Date

April 26, 1954

Runtime

Advertisement

207 Minutes

Director

Akira Kurosawa

Advertisement

Writers

Akira Kurosawa

Advertisement

• 
• 

Advertisement

Advertisement

Nick Cannon has landed in hot water after opening up about the different dating rules he has for his first set of twins with Mariah Carey.

The actor and TV host recently revealed that while his son, Moroccan, is allowed to date, his daughter, Monroe, is not. Cannon said the rule comes from a place of protection, claiming he wants to shield his daughter from potentially harmful men.

However, his explanation did not sit well with many online accusing him of applying a double standard and reinforcing a misogynistic approach to parenting.

Cannon has long been known as one of Hollywood’s more unconventional public figures, not just for his work in entertainment, but for his highly publicized personal life.

The actor and TV host is the father of 12 children with six women, with some of his kids born in the same year. However, while Cannon’s own dating history has often made headlines, his approach to parenting his first set of twins with Carey is now drawing criticism.

Speaking on a recent episode of “The TMZ Podcast,” Cannon revealed that he is comfortable with his 15-year-old son, Moroccan, dating, but does not allow his twin sister, Monroe, to do the same.

“There is a difference when parenting a son and then when parenting a daughter. I am more protective of my daughter because there’s things out there that I have to protect my daughter from,” Cannon said.

Cannon Worries About His Daughter Being Abused On A Date

Despite the host calling him out on his double standard, Cannon only doubled down on his stance, but explains that his fear is tied to situations like his daughter suffering violence at the hands of her date.

“My son isn’t calling me that, Dad, she hit me,” the comedian said in a dramatic high voice. “He’s not doing that. But if someone puts their hands on my daughter. I’m going to jail. I’m doing 25 to life if somebody puts their hands on my daughter.”

He went on to say that it is his “worst nightmare” for his daughter to ever be in such a situation, as he isn’t changing his mind on how he would react to her abuser.

Advertisement

Nick Cannon Said His Daughter Can Only Go On Dates With A Chaperone

When asked at what age Monroe would be allowed to date, Cannon appeared hesitant and struggled to give a clear answer before explaining that they had reached an agreement.

According to Cannon, he told his daughter that if she could explain what usually happens on dates, he would consider allowing her to go. Even then, the actor said he would feel more comfortable if her brother accompanied her.

Unsatisfied with his response, the host pressed him further, asking whether 16 would be an appropriate age for Monroe to start dating.

The “American Son” star once again avoided giving a direct answer, but said he is already preparing for that stage and has started talking with her about the possibility of dating when she gets to college.

The Actor Faces Backlash Over Dating Double Standard

Cannon’s comments quickly sparked backlash online, with many accusing him of applying a double standard in the way he is parenting his twins.

One user described his stance as “misogynistic b-llshit,” while another called it a “double standard at its finest.”

Advertisement

Cannon’s highly publicized personal life and history of multiple relationships also became part of the criticism, with some arguing that he was not the best person to be offering parenting advice publicly.

“Nick Cannon is one of the very last people who should be giving parenting advice on a podcast. He has 12 kids with 6 different women. He’s gross,” one user wrote.

Nick Cannon Explained Why He Has So Many Kids

Most recently, Cannon addressed the subject in a 2025 cover story with Vulture, where he admitted that having so many children was not exactly planned.

“It was also a little bit of, like, ‘OK, God, how did I have five kids in one year?’” he told the publication, referencing 2022, when he welcomed five children with different women. “Probably careless activity.”

Most movies aim to entertain, a few strive for something a little deeper, and a handful go for the emotional jugular, trying to shake the viewer to the core. They pull you into worlds defined by grief, moral collapse, existential dread, or quiet, unresolvable pain.

With that in mind, this list looks at the heaviest films of the last four decades. The titles below refuse easy catharsis. They are not the kinds of movies you casually revisit on a Sunday afternoon. But they are the kind that stay with you.

10

‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ (2022)

Image via Netflix

“I’m scared… I’m so scared.” The most recent adaptation of the classic anti-war novel is the best and a deeply harrowing watch (even if some deviations from the source material perhaps dilute its power). Felix Kammerer plays the young German soldier who enthusiastically enlists in World War I, only to be confronted with the brutal reality of trench warfare. As the war drags on, his idealism is stripped away, replaced by exhaustion and despair.

The tone is grim, and the atmosphere suffocating. In this movie, there are no glorious charges or last-minute victories. All we get is mud, confusion, and sudden, arbitrary death. The violence is clumsy, prolonged, and deeply uncomfortable to watch. The aesthetics reflect this. The colors are cold, muted, almost decaying, and the sound design is oppressive, dominated by a recurring, almost industrial score.

9

‘Se7en’ (1995)

Image via New Line Cinema

“What’s in the box?” Se7en is a procedural thriller, but also a dark moral study. In it, two detectives (Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman) track a serial killer (Kevin Spacey) who uses the seven deadly sins as the basis for his murders. The more the cops discover, the more personal and complex the case becomes. The film has a pronounced philosophical edge, as the characters are forced to grapple with questions of justice and the nature of evil.

Somerset represents weary realism. He has seen enough to believe the world is fundamentally broken. Mills, less experienced and more impulsive, still believes in good. However, the movie relentlessly drags the young detective toward Somerset’s bleak perspective. This comes through in the cinematography as well. The film’s world is perpetually dark and rain-soaked, a sense of decay looming over everything. All this culminates in that devastating, iconic ending.

8

‘Blonde’ (2022)

Image via Netflix

“I’m still her… but I don’t know who that is.” While one can debate the artistic merits and historical accuracy of Blonde, there’s no denying its heaviness. The film reimagines the life of Marilyn Monroe (Ana de Armas) through a fragmented, impressionistic lens, focusing on her experiences of exploitation and emotional trauma. It’s a grueling, often frightening character study and snapshot of a predatory industry.

Here, Monroe is no glamorous, untouchable icon. Rather, she’s someone trapped in cycles of abuse and abandonment. Her childhood wounds, especially her fractured relationship with her mother, actively shape every decision she makes. She’s stuck, replaying the same emotional damage in different forms. Scenes of heartbreak and degradation hit us one after another. Unlike more conventional biopics, Blonde doesn’t aim to celebrate or even fully explain its subject. It just immerses you in her suffering.

7

‘Irréversible’ (2002)

Image via Mars Distribution

“Time destroys everything.” Gaspar Noé is no stranger to provocative filmmaking, yet even by his standards, Irréversible is a difficult project. In the film, a brutal act of violence sets off a chain of events told in reverse chronological order, revealing the consequences before the causes. The narrative moves backward, and a clearer picture of the characters’ lives slowly emerges. This structure isn’t just a gimmick, but a way of reframing the story, making earlier scenes feel increasingly tragic as their context becomes clear.

The movie’s underlying philosophy is fatalistic. This is a world governed by randomness and cruelty, where ordinary lives can be destroyed in an instant by chance encounters. There’s no moral balance, no justice that meaningfully restores what was lost. Once again, the filmmaking itself complements this. The disorienting camerawork, defined by long takes and spinning movements, creates a sense of nausea and panic.

6

‘American History X’ (1998)

“Hate is baggage… life’s too short to be pissed off all the time.” Edward Norton delivers perhaps his strongest performance here as Derek Vinyard, a former neo-Nazi reflecting on his past while trying to prevent his younger brother (Edward Furlong) from following the same path. The film moves between timelines, exploring the roots and consequences of his beliefs. In the process, it forces you to sit inside the mindset it’s trying to dismantle.

Crucially, American History X refuses easy answers. It acknowledges the possibility of change, but also insists that actions have consequences that can’t simply be erased. There’s a sense of tragedy to even the more positive moments, a painful realization that the harm is already set in motion. Finally, there are the bursts of shocking violence, like the infamous curb stomp scene.

5

‘Manchester by the Sea’ (2016)

Image via Amazon Studios/ Roadside Attractions

“I can’t beat it… I can’t beat it.” Manchester by the Sea is an unrelentingly sad movie, but a great one nonetheless. Casey Affleck won the Best Actor Oscar for his performance as Lee Chandler, a withdrawn janitor who returns to his hometown after his brother’s death and is unexpectedly named the guardian of his teenage nephew (Lucas Hedges). He tries to navigate this new responsibility, but past traumas continue to exert a hold on him.

Ultimately, Manchester by the Sea is a modern classic because it doesn’t sugarcoat anything or search for silver linings. It treats grief as something permanent. Lee isn’t on a journey to “get over” what happened; he’s trying, in a limited and fragile way, to keep living with it. There are some things in life, the movie tells us, you simply can’t come back from.

4

‘An Elephant Sitting Still’ (2018)

Image via KimStim

“Everything is just… meaningless.” In An Elephant Sitting Still, multiple characters in a bleak Chinese city contemplate traveling to see a mythical elephant that simply sits, unmoving, indifferent to the world. Over the course of a single day, their lives intersect in subtle and tragic ways. The narrative is less about plot than about accumulation, small moments of despair building into something overwhelming. The result is a film that confronts existential emptiness head-on.

Interestingly, the issues and traumas here are relatively ordinary, even systemic, as opposed to big and “cinematic”. The characters contend with problems like loneliness, guilt, and purposelessness, which are common in the modern world. Fundamentally, the elephant symbolizes escape, but the film remains agnostic as to whether this hope is real or just another illusion people cling to in order to keep going.

3

‘Requiem for a Dream’ (2000)

Image via Artisan Entertainment

“I just want to be on television.” In Darren Aronofsky‘s grim masterpiece, four characters (Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, Ellen Burstyn, and Marlon Wayans) chase different forms of success and escape, only to find themselves trapped in cycles of addiction and self-destruction. Their lives spiral out of control, and the consequences become increasingly severe, to the point that they’re almost painful to watch.

In Requiem for a Dream, downfall is inevitable, with each storyline following a similar, gut-wrenching trajectory. The final act is unbearable, with everyone hitting a breaking point. These were challenging roles to play, but the performances are fittingly intense and believable across the board, perfectly capturing the characters’ initial hope and the eventual collapse. On the aesthetic side, the rapid editing and recurring visual motifs create a sense of momentum that mirrors the protagonists’ descent.

2

‘Dancer in the Dark’ (2000)

Image via Fine Line Features

“I see it all… I see it now.” Dancer in the Dark saw Danish provocateur Lars von Trier teaming up with Icelandic musician Björk. She won the Best Actress Award at Cannes for her turn here as Selma, a Czech immigrant working in a factory, struggling to save money for her son’s (Vladica Kostic) eye operation while slowly losing her own vision. Her situation worsens, and she retreats into elaborate musical fantasies.

The director is famous for audacious, challenging work, and this is him at his most emotionally confrontational. Here, he juxtaposes harsh realism with moments of stylized musical escape, creating a hard-hitting tension. At the eye of the storm, Björk’s performance is remarkably raw and vulnerable, anchoring the film’s more experimental elements. Her character is kind, naive, and fundamentally good, but the world around her is indifferent at best and exploitative at worst.

1

‘Grave of the Fireflies’ (1988)

Image via Studio Ghibli

“Why do fireflies have to die so soon?” Grave of the Fireflies is one of the greatest animated movies of all time, as well as one of the most heartbreaking. It tells the story of two siblings (Tsutomu Tatsumi and Ayano Shiraishi) struggling to survive in Japan during the final months of World War II after losing their home and family. Resources are scarce, and their situation grows increasingly desperate. By contrast, the animation is delicate and precise, capturing both the beauty and the fragility of the characters’ world.

This dichotomy brings home how large-scale conflict translates into small, personal losses. The children are front and center, their bond tender and real, which makes their gradual decline feel all the more devastating. Seita tries to take on the role of protector, while Setsuko embodies innocence and trust. The world around them, however, is indifferent.

Advertisement

Grave of the Fireflies

Advertisement

Release Date

April 16, 1988

Runtime

89 Mins

Advertisement

Director

Isao Takahata

Advertisement

Writers

Akiyuki Nosaka, Isao Takahata

Advertisement

• 
• 

Advertisement

Advertisement