After a global search landed Kingsley Ben-Adir the part, the world now has its first look at the red-hot Secret Invasion actor’s take on Bob Marley.
The trailer for Paramount’s Bob Marley: One Love dropped this afternoon. The film is said to celebrates the life and music of the icon who inspired generations through his message of love and unity. Though numerous iterations of the reggae legend’s life has been developed, One Love marks the first time his story has been brought to the big screen. Produced in partnership with the Marley family — Ziggy Marley, Rita Marley and Cedella Marley are all producers while Orly Marley EPs — the film’s trailer is set to the strains of the Bob Marley and the Wailers’ “Jammin’,” and ends with “Exodus.”
Bob Marley died of cancer in 1981 at age 36, but in that short lifetime he changed the landscape of music, introducing generations to such songs as “Get Up, Stand Up,” “One Love,” “No Woman, No Cry,” “Could You Be Loved,” “Buffalo Soldier” and “Redemption Song.”
The film does not look to be an origin story, but rather traces the singer through the peak of his fame, the crisis that he and his family when armed men raided his Kingston, Jamaica home in 1976, and shot him in the chest and arm. Marley’s wife, Rita, was shot in the head in her car in the driveway. Both, as well as his manager Don Taylor, who was also shot, survived.
Despite the shooting, Bob Marley & The Wailers took the stage at a peace concert two days later in hopes of quelling election-related violence. While promising only one song, they played for 90 minutes with Rita singing backup and still wearing the hospital gown she had been discharged in hours earlier.
The film’s climax looks to be the One Love Concert where, after more than a year abroad, Marley returned to Jamaica during a political civil war. The concert came to its peak during the performance of “Jamming”, when Marley joined the hands of political rivals Michael Manley and Edward Seaga, an feat that many later said only Marley could have pulled off.
Lashana Lynch plays Rita Marley alongside a cast that includes James Norton, Tosin Cole, Anthony Welsh, Michael Gandolfini, Umi Myers, Nadine Marshall.
The title role was one of the more coveted parts in Hollywood during the past couple years. Sources say Paramount execs and director Reinaldo Marcus Green saw endless tests and met with dozens of actors vying for the role, but Ben-Adir ultimately won the role, as Deadline exclusively reported last February.
Ben-Adir’s star has been on the rise since his breakout role in Netflix’s The OA, but recent performances playing iconic figures have brought more acclaim. While it was brief, his portrayal as President Barack Obama on Showtime’s The Comey Rule brought instant praise, and his spot-on performance as Malcolm X in the Regina King-helmed One Night in Miami had him in the award-season conversation. He’s also featured in Warner Bros. Discovery’s upcoming Barbie.
Producers are Robert Teitel, Brad Pitt, Jeremy Kleiner, Dede Gardner, Ziggy Marley, Rita Marley, Cedella Marley.
EPs include Richard Hewitt, Orly Marley, Matt Solodky.
Director is Reinaldo Marcus Green.
Script is by Zach Baylin, Frank E. Flowers and Terence Winter.
Bob Marley: One Love is in theaters January 12, 2024.
Ziggy Marley posted the film’s poster and his own thoughts on the film last night.
Britney Spears says she was “not prepared for what happened” on Wednesday night after she approached San Antonio Spurs player Victor Wembanyama while at a restaurant.
Following reports that she was slapped by one of Wembanyama’s security team on Wednesday night after she approached the NBA player following a game, the singer posted a response to her Instagram stories, confirming the incident and detailing her experience.
“I recognized an athlete in my hotel lobby as I was heading to dinner. I later went to a restaurant at a different hotel and saw him again. I decided to approach him and congratulate him on his success,” she recalled. “It was really loud, so I tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention. I’m aware of the player’s statement where he mentioned I grabbed him from behind, but I simply tapped him on the shoulder. His security then backhanded me in the face without looking back in front of a crowd.”
She added that she was “nearly knocked down” and hit so hard her glasses fell off her face.
Spears described the incident as “embarrassing” but said it was important to speak out “to urge people in the public eye to set an example and treat all people with respect. Physical violence is happening too much in this world, often behind closed doors. I stand with all victims and my heart goes out to all of you.”
In her story, Spears noted that “traumatic experiences are not new to me, and I have had my fair share of them,” but that she was “not prepared for what happened to me last night.” She also shared that she had yet to receive a public apology, but thanked the Las Vegas Police Department and their dectectives for their assistance Wednesday night.
“I get swarmed by people all the time,” she added later. “In fact, that night, I was run by a group of at least 20 fans, my security team didn’t hit any of them.”
The Las Vegas Police Department confirmed they responded regarding a battery investigation around 11 p.m. at a property in the 3700 block of Las Vegas Boulevard. No police report and no arrest or citations have been issued as of Thursday.
Speaking to a number of press members including ESPN NBA reporter Cassidy Hubbarth, Wembanyama described his experience, stating that Spears had “grabbed him from behind — not on my shoulder” and as far as he knew, security pushed the individual away. He was unclear on “how much force” was used.
He also shared he did not know it was Spears who had been reaching out to him as he “kept walking” as they were in a busy hallway and “there was a lot of people” including those who were calling him, but he had spoken with his security team about not stopping for anyone to avoid a security risk.
The numbing experience of web video surfing is recreated — intentionally, I think — in “The YouTube Effect,” a discursive documentary that assembles a fair amount of information about the impact of YouTube on society, but struggles to find something new to say with it. Directed by Alex Winter, the film charts the rise of the video sharing platform and then attempts to trace its Sasquatch-size footprint on the culture.
YouTube, the world’s second most popular site (after Google), is a stimulus machine. The film emulates this quality, finding a formal rhythm by layering a hodgepodge of YouTube clips with voice-over analysis from tech experts. It also spotlights several popular YouTube creators, including the social commentator Natalie Wynn, who is best known for her channel ContraPoints. A cogent speaker, Wynn says that she has declined offers to partner with streamers or cable because she values the “creative control” YouTube offers.
Interrupting these success stories are tangents into a number of troubling chapters in the site’s history. We hear from the video game developer Brianna Wu, a target of death threats during Gamergate, as well as Caleb Cain, who describes his tumble into a matrix of far-right videos. These events have already been heavily reported on — “Rabbit Hole,” a New York Times podcast, relays Cain’s experience — and the sections often feel like retreads.
The internet moves quickly, perhaps too quickly for an overview this unfocused. Even Winter seems overwhelmed by the task of curating this deluge of white-noise news and memes: His rundown of YouTube’s connection to the Jan. 6 Capitol riot lasts about as long as the viral video “Charlie Bit My Finger.”
The YouTube Effect Not Rated. Running time: 1 hour 39 minutes. In theaters.
Keke Palmer‘s boyfriend, Darius Daulton Jackson, defended himself, then deleted his Twitter account after he came under fire for publicly shaming the “Nope” star on social media. His account had been reactivated — but set to private by Thursday afternoon.
Jackson disappeared from Twitter this week after criticizing the outfit Palmer recently wore to Usher‘s Las Vegas residency. He tweeted his disapproval in response to a viral video of Usher serenading Palmer, who sported a stylish black bodysuit underneath a sheer, patterned dress at the singer’s concert.
Suffice to say the remark — which many interpreted as a bitter attempt by Jackson to exert control over the Emmy-winning actor and mother of their newborn child — did not go over well on social media.
“men are so jealous of partners that are more successful than them + is why I always advocate to never as a woman get in a dynamic like this,” tweeted @DrIndyEinsteintweeted.
“I never see men correct other men when they’re fAtHeRs but always wanna be in women’s business,” tweeted @KOOKIIE_KRISP.
“The moment men start seeing woman as mother figures they forget that they have any duality outside of that and thing they can’t be multifaceted,” @smoldumblesbotweeted . “Keke Palmer better drop his hating ass.”
“Shaming yo own partner online because they wore an attractive outfit is high levels of insecurity,” tweeted @DanBoyWonder.
“Keke Palmer can do whatever the f— she wants and she’s doing nothing wrong,” tweeted @kevycalves. “I hope she kicks his insecure little ass out of her house.”
Jackson was quick to react to the backlash by doubling down on his unsolicited opinion of how a mother should dress. He and Palmer welcomed their first child, a son named Leodis Andrellton, in February.
“We live in a generation where a man of the family doesn’t want the wife & mother to his kids to showcase booty cheeks to please others & he gets told how much of a hater he is,” Jackson said in a follow-up tweet.
“This is my family & my representation. I have standards & morals to what I believe. I rest my case.”
After his response drew even more scrutiny, Jackson protected his Twitter account by requiring access.
Palmer has not addressed the controversy. She did, however, share several stunning photos of herself modeling her concert look on Instagram.
“You look AMAAAZING,” musician H.E.R. commented on Palmer’s Instagram post.
“Queen s—,” echoed comedian Ziwe Fumudoh.
Usher — who made a memorable cameo in 2019’s “Hustlers” starring Palmer — commented, “The Big Boss!! Thank U for coming.”
The Times has reached out to Palmer’s reps for comment. See more tweets in support of the “Alice” actor below.
Darius Daulton just tried to humiliate Keke online so he’s not a protector. She makes more than him so he’s not a provider. And he had a child out of wedlock. She’s not his wife. The audacity of trying to scold her about traditional values when he meets none of the criteria.
Ppl keep saying “feeling insecure is valid” but Keke’s employee didn’t communicate insecurity. Ppl inferred that, doing emotional labor for a man per usual.
What he DID express was feelings of entitlement, control, misogyny, & patriarchy. & those are the “feelings” to address.
Never thought I’d be telling anyone to take notes from asap rocky but it looks like keke palmers boyfriend can use a few tips on how to stfu, raise that baby and enjoy his girl
I really hate how he set Keke up. She was literally minding her business having fun at an Usher concert. Now she is the tending topic of Black Twitter and misogynistic red pill/manosphere/trad wife spaces. Ugh.
Insomniac’s Spider-Man 2 may be coming to PlayStation later this year, but it will first make a huge impact at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con with a panel where its main actors will be present.
Marketing for Spider-Man 2 is starting to really ramp up as the October 20 release date gets closer. A gameplay trailer was recently revealed that displayed new elements the game will feature.
Before the first Spider-Man game came out in 2018, it also was given a heavy focus at that year’s Comic-Con, and it seems as though this year’s title will be following suit.
Spider-Man 2 Takes Over Hall H
Marvel
It was recently announced via Variety that Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 will be featured at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con 2023 on Thursday, July 20 from 2:30 – 3:30 pm PT in the illustrious Hall H.
Along with the announcement, it was also confirmed that multiple members of the development team and actors from the upcoming game will be in attendance.
Peter Parker actor Yuri Lowenthal will be present at the panel alongside Nadji Jeter (Miles Morales), Laura Bailey (Mary Jane Watson), and legendary actor Tony Todd, who will be playing Venom.
The developers announced included Insomniac Games‘ creative director Bryan Intihar, game director Ryan Smith, narrative director Jon Paquette, and senior art director Jacinda Chew.
Marvel Games’ VO and creative director Bill Roseman will also be a part of the presentation.
The panel’s title was revealed to be “Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: Symbiotic Relationships,” teasing that fans will get an even more in-depth look at the Venom symbiote that will be a major story beat of the game.
It was also confirmed that attendees will also get to see some behind-the-scenes action regarding Venom.
The Importance of Spider-Man 2
The fact that Spider-Man 2 will be in a Hall H panel proves just how much faith Insomniac, Marvel, and PlayStation have in the upcoming game.
The first title had a huge player base in 2018, and many fans still talk about that adventure to this very day.
With this panel putting a large focus on Venom, many questions will likely be answered that fans have in regard to how the Symbiote will work when it is affecting Peter, and how the character of Venom will be handled.
After the convention is over, fan anticipation will likely be even higher for the upcoming PlayStation game.
The panel for Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 will take place at San Diego Comic-Con in San Diego, California on July 20, and the full game will be released exclusively on PlayStation 5 on October 20.
Warning: This article contains spoilers for Blue Beetle.
Blue Beetle, an upcoming film, introduces Jamie Reyes, a young Mexican-American protagonist who stumbles upon a mysterious scarab of unknown origin. This artifact becomes fused with Jamie’s spine, granting him the ability to summon a powerful armored suit known as the Blue Beetle. However, the scarab’s influence over Jamie is far from predictable, often leading to moments where he finds himself controlled by the beetle rather than maintaining control himself. Director Angel Manuel Soto recently shared significant details about the film, shedding light on the emotional journey of the protagonist.
During an interview with MovieMaker magazine (via Reddit), Soto confirmed that Alberto, Jamie’s father, portrayed by Damián Alcázar, will meet his demise at some point in the film. Additionally, Soto shared that the film will feature a sequence where Jamie and his father are reunited in the Afterlife. This particular scene draws inspiration from Gabriel Figueroa’s classic 1960 movie Macario. Xolo Maridueña, the actor portraying Jamie, further emphasized the significance of this storyline development. He said:
“Jaime didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to his father. I want people to understand that if you have your parents, just hug them, because you never know when it’s the last time.”
Blue Beetle is an exciting addition to the ever-expanding comic book universe. Spearheaded by James Gunn and Peter Safran, this new vision for the superhero genre kicks off with the highly anticipated film, Superman: Legacy. Soto, in an interview with Total Film, emphasized that while Blue Beetle exists within James Gunn’s DCU, it is not bound by the events or associations of previous films. The movie acknowledges the presence of superheroes in its world but charts its own unique path, free from the constraints of past storylines. With the intention of creating a compelling saga, the first installment of Blue Beetle adopts a traditional three-act structure, laying the foundation for future narrative arcs.
“We are part of the universe, we are part of the world, we are part of the plans that they have been creating for the future instalments of the DCU, but we are not tied to all the films from the past. Yes, our movie lives in the world where superheroes exist. But that doesn’t mean that a certain event, or certain alliance, or certain things from the past dictate where our film is going. Our first movie, the way we wanted to do it, was always with the mentality that we wanted to do two more, at least, and taking the traditional three-act structure of a story, we wanted our first movie to practically be the first act of a saga.”
Joining Maridueña is Susan Sarandon, who embodies the movie’s antagonist, Victoria Kord. They are supported by a talented ensemble cast, including George Lopez as Uncle Rudy Reyes, Elpidia Carrillo as Rocio Reyes, Raoul Max Trujillo as Carapax the Indestructible Man, Adriana Barraza, Jorge Jimenez, Bruna Marquezine, Belissa Escobedo, and Damián Alcázar. Blue Beetle hits theaters on August 18.
During the Kombat Kast, Netherrealm Studios revealed a new trailer for Mortal Kombat 1. The trailer focuses on the Lin Keui clan and all of the ninjas that inhabit the organization. Check out the trailer below.
New Mortal Kombat 1 Trailer Brings The Smoke
The trailer showcases two new fighters to Mortal Kombat 1’s roster, Smoke and Rain. Both are playable fighters in the game, and you can see their gruesome moveset throughout the trailer.
Smoke, Sub-Zero, and Scorpion’s mission is to protect Earthrealm from the new threat it faces now that Liu Kang has reset the universe at the end of Mortal Kombat 11. Smoke is back with a new look and all-new arsenal; you’re not ready for this Smoke.
The trailer also highlights some new Kameo Fighters, the game’s assist characters that help change the dynamic of a fight and enhance your combos. You can see Sektor, Cyrax, Frost, and Scorpion all joining the battle as you beat the living hell out of your opponents.
Rain, the High Mage of Outworld, is a fan favorite, finally making his return to the Mortal Kombat series launch roster. Rain was added as DLC in Mortal Kombat 11, but is part of the main roster this time around.
The trailer shows off some story cutscenes, fatality carnage, and a ton of blood. Rain and Smoke are clearly highlighted in this trailer, but there is still so much left to see in Mortal Kombat 1.
After building monitor/recorders and creating a tool to give budget creatives access to RAW image capture, Atomos has been expanding into the NLE market by leveraging its cloud-based workflow infrastructure.
But what really sparked our interest was Atomos Edit, which is an NLE that lives entirely in the cloud. Now, the toolkit is out in Beta for creatives to finally dig into, so let’s see what the suite has to offer and if you would make the switch.
Atomos Edit
Atomos Edit is a browser-based, collaborative video editor designed to remove the limitation of hardware and distance from your editor. Imagine never having to rely on a beefy workstation to clip, edit, and turn around content for social media, documentaries, or narrative films.
With your entire NLE in the cloud, you don’t need a workstation, and you can even pass the project onto another editor without exporting XML files.
Atomos Edit TimelineCredit: Atomos
There are also other ways you can simplify your workflow. With Atomos Edit, users can seamlessly upload media directly from an Atomos device in the field, edit their content on any browser, and then choose to publish directly to social media or export to another NLE (Non-Linear Editing) software for further refinement.
Content creators no longer need a dedicated workstationCredit: Atomos
Atomos Edit also includes direct publishing functionality for platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.
With web-optimized playback, creatives teams and external clients to view images, audio, and video on any device. This makes reviewing and approving content more efficient as you can use a phone, tablet, or desktop. Additionally, activity reports provide valuable insights into who has viewed, downloaded, and commented on the content. Push notifications can also ensure that users never miss important reviews or approvals.
Key Features
Professional-Style Timeline: Atomos Edit leans on a feature-rich timeline with support for multiple audio and video tracks.
Multi-User Editing and Timeline Locking: Multiple users can work on a project simultaneously. The ability to lock the timeline also ensures clear coordination.
Collaborative Review and Approval Workflows: Comment tagging and approval workflows streamline the feedback process, making for efficient iterations to the timeline.
High-Speed Uploads of Large Video Files: An interrupt-resilient upload feature allows for quickly upload of large video files to the cloud without time-consuming delays.
Effects, Transitions, and Sequence Versioning: A range of effects and transitions allows editors to build a solid foundation for a rough cut. Additionally, sequence versioning allows creators to experiment with different edits and revert to previous versions.
Direct Import of Stock Video Content: Users can import stock video content directly, which can save time in the edit and help you focus on the creative rather than content management.
Is It Time to Switch?
On paper, Atomos Cloud Studio and Edit seem like great tools to make your editing workflow more efficient and resilient. You’ll never have to worry about losing a drive, sending footage to editors, or developing a system for client review. It’s all built into the ecosystem.
However, no plan survives contact with the enemy, and Atomos Edit is still in its infancy.
Currently, there is no replacement for a dedicated NLE and workstation suite. While Atomos Cloud Studio and Edit hope to change that, there will be growing pains, and large projects may not want to risk their content just yet.
Atomos Cloud Studio is a promising toolCredit: Atomos
If you’re a content creator with room to experiment, Atomos Edit might be an excellent solution for you and/or your team. The final product seems promising, and we’re excited to see it in action. But be cautious. Anything in Beta will be like wandering through a minefield and no one wants to see their project explode.
If you do want to try Atomos Edit, it will be available in three subscription plans for around $50 per user per month. Visit www.atomosedit.com to sign up and learn more.
But what do you think? Will you be switching to a cloud-based NLE? Let us know in the comments!
Daniel RadcliffePhoto: Slaven Vlasic (Getty Images)
Remember last summer when casting announcements for Disney+’s new Percy Jackson And The Olympiansseries began to roll out, and rumors swirled (and continue to) about a potential cameo from incumbent Percy/currently booked and busy actor Logan Lerman? Yeah, that will not be happening with the other beloved childhood book series that is currently being re-adapted into a high-budget television show. Harry Potter, that is; not Lord Of The Rings, although you would be forgiven for making the jump. God, it really is just franchises all the way down these days, huh?
Daniel Radcliffe is a dad now
When asked in a recent Access Hollywoodinterview about the new HBO Harry Potter reboot that’s happening for… some reason (cough cough, even more money in the pockets of two of art’s biggest dementors), Daniel Radcliffe was generous but firm in his response.
“I certainly haven’t,” the Miracle Workers actor answered when asked if he’d talked about appearing in the show. He continued: “I think it’s very much like they’re going for a new series and there will be somebody else playing Harry, so I think it would be very weird for me to show up.” So this new show definitely won’t be a Spider-Versestyle mush of the original trio, A Very Potter Musical, and the puppet pals, which is a shame because that actually sounds fun.
Regardless, Radcliffe has never wavered in his love for the HP story—even while publicly distancing himself from J.K. Rowling—and doesn’t seem to be switching that up now. “I’m very excited to see what other people do with it,” he said. “The comparison I’ve made is to a story like Sherlock Holmes. The Potter series of books was always going to be more than, like, one interpretation or one franchise, so it will be cool to see the torch get passed on.”
Hopefully (or not, depending on your stance on Rowling and her infamous royalty cheques) this one goes a little better than the last attempt to make the larger wizarding world a thing.
Sure, most episodes of The Kardashians consist of the people who inundate us with Instagram ads for diarrhea tea sitting around in leisurewear and complaining about their mom or something. But sometimes we get exactly what we’re looking for. Case in point: The latest episode of The Kardashians sees Kim Kardashian dealing with the fallout of her anti-semitic ex-husband, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, tripling down on his anti-Jewish conspiracy theories.
Kim Kardashian needs to stay in her lane, according to Patti LuPone
“It’s really confusing for me that it’s so different than the person that I married because that’s who I loved and that’s who I remember,” Kardashian says. “I’ll do anything to get that person back.”
“The whole situation is sad, and I don’t know how to emotionally manage it,” Kardashian continues. “I’m conflicted because I don’t ever want to jump in and be a part of a downfall for the father of my kids.”
Kardashian was more or less quiet on the subject of her estranged spouse’s fascistic fascinations. It makes sense; you want to save these moments for the camera. “I’m just not okay. I’m just having such a hard day today,” Kardashian says in the episode. “I literally haven’t changed my outfit in like two days. I just have to get it together. I just can’t.”
As she mentions in the episode, even things that used to fill her life with meaning (posting on social media) don’t offer the same thrill as she blames herself for the consequences of West’s actions. “I feel guilty that I posted something in support of the Jewish community, then people dropped him today,” Kim said. “Is that my fault? That I posted that? And did that push them? And I should have just kept quiet? But I’m vocal about everything else. I never know what to do.”
We suppose outwardly and repeatedly rejecting your husband’s dangerous hate speech would’ve been the first step. But sure, waiting for your TV show to drop nearly a year later also does some good, we guess.
UFC champ Michael Bisping has jumped on board Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, where he will star opposite fellow returning actors Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr.
Bisping will reprise his role as Connor in the sequel after also doing a star turn in Millennium’s upcoming Red Sonja movie. His other credits include xXx: The Return of Xander Cage, Twin Peaks, Warrior, Never Back Down: Revolt and Triple Threat.
Bisping can also be seen in the documentary feature Bisping for Universal, and he also does UFC onscreen color commentating and has expanded into unscripted series like the competition series Hyperdrive for Netflix.
Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, written and directed by Christian Gudegast, began production in the UK and Canary Islands in April, with the cameras set to roll through June.
The sequel picks up with Big Nick tracking down bad guys on the streets of Europe and getting closer to capturing Donnie (Jackson). Donnie, meanwhile, has become caught up in the dangerous world of diamond thieves and the Panther mafia, as a heist on the world’s largest diamond exchange is being planned.
The original Den of Thieves film saw the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (led by Butler’s “Big Nick” Flanagan) on the hunt for a group of sophisticated bank robbers. Sierra Affinity is participating in sales and financing for the sequel, with the producer credits shared by Marc Canton, Butler, Tucker Tooley and Alan Siegel.
Bisping is represented by Gersh, Michael Selby and Patrick Knapp of GGSSC.
After The Loneliest Time comes The Loveliest Time. On Thursday, Carly Rae Jepsen announced plans to drop her new album, The Loveliest Time — a followup to her album released last year.
“After a season of hibernation comes the season of blossoming,” she wrote on Twitter. “I got to know loneliness and discover the beauty in it. The loneliest time taught me that growth comes from being planted in darkness. But now the world has opened itself back up again and in turn so have we.”
“It’s time for celebration and for all the lessons we have learned to burst into joyful action,” she added, though she did not reveal an album release date.
It’s been the loneliest time, it’s been the loveliest time. After a season of hibernation comes the season of blossoming?. I got to know loneliness and discover the beauty in it. The loneliest time taught me that growth comes from being planted in darkness. But now the world… pic.twitter.com/bUPtypIxMc
Jepsen continued by saying that her fans “know me so well” that they kne that of course a “B side” of her last LP is on the way.
“It’s almost disrespectful because you know that it’s coming. And in fact this is the time to announce that it’s here. It’s done and a month from now The Loveliest Time will be all yours,” she wrote. “I can’t really call it a b sides as if these were cast-off ideas – it’s the completed set to a body of work that taught me so much about love and loneliness and myself.”
Jepsen kicked off the Loveliest Time era with the release of the disco-infused single “Shy Boy” late last month.
She spoke to Rolling Stone last year ahead of the release of The Loneliest Time, which was inspired by “a lot of contemplation” after suffering a family loss during the pandemic. The LP featured songs “Beach House,” “Western Wind,” and its title track, which went viral on TikTok.
Trending
“Loneliness is a big theme of this album, and the extremes that come with it. It sounds like it has a negative connotation, but when you analyze your loneliness, it can be beautiful,” she said last year. “Extreme events can take place because of loneliness, at least in my own life. Running over to your ex’s house in the middle of the night in the pouring rain and screaming, ‘Let’s start this again’ — something happened before those decisions!”
“Even though it’s a sad title, I feel like it’s also uplifting,” she added.
In 2012, a Dutch company called Mars One announced grand plans to colonize the red planet. Over 200,000 people applied to participate in the effort and become the first humans in the universe to establish a permanent colony on Mars.
Seven years later, Mars One collapsed into bankruptcy among accusations of mismanagement and the dream to send humans to live on Mars died.
Now Ridley Scott Associates (RSA Films), the “Alien” director’s commercial production company, is set to make a documentary series about the enterprise after signing an exclusive access agreement with Mars One founder Bas Lansdorp, Variety can confirm.
Tentatively titled “Mars One: No Going Back,” the series will have access to thousands of hours of video archives as well as the people behind Mars One and, of course, the applicants who were prepared to leave earth behind forever.
“Whilst the series lays bare the true story of Mars One and covers the wider controversies surrounding the endeavour which some have called a suicide mission, the narrative is driven by the firsthand experiences of the participants, humanising their motivations for embarking on such a life-threatening journey,” reads the synopsis.
Dominic Crossley-Holland, RSA’s head of unscripted, said: “This is an amazing opportunity to create a genre-bending documentary series about this pop culture-defining space story that captured the world’s imagination. We are fascinated by the human psychology at the heart of this story, namely why someone would willingly want to leave earth on a one way mission. Our team of world class storytellers will create a truly innovative series that is nothing like anything else on (or off) the planet!”
Winnipeg homicide investigators have arrested a man wanted for murder.
Keith Michael McKay, 27, who was taken into custody Wednesday, has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of 31-year-old Vincent Brian Kipling on May 10.
Police were called on that date to a scene near Stella Avenue and Main Street where they found Kipling with serious injuries. Despite emergency CPR efforts by police, Kipling was taken to hospital in critical condition where he later died.
Another suspect, 38-year-old Aaron Wayne Azure, was arrested in the Point Douglas neighbourhood May 29 in connection with the homicide, and charged with manslaughter.
Winnipeg cops arrest fugitive North End homicide suspect
Ford Motor said Thursday that its new-vehicle sales rose 10 percent in the three months of April through June, thanks to robust demand for trucks.
The automaker sold 531,662 motor vehicles, up from 483,688 in the second quarter last year, as sales of pickups, delivery vans and heavy trucks increased 26 percent. The gain in truck sales more than offset a decline of nearly 3 percent in sales of electric vehicles.
Ford sold 14,843 battery-powered cars and trucks in the quarter, down from 15,273 a year earlier. The company has had to slow production to upgrade assembly lines and increase its ability to make more vehicles later this year.
The upgrade work mainly affected the Mustang Mach-E, whose sales declined 21 percent in the second quarter. Ford also sold 4,466 F-150 Lightning electric pickup trucks in the quarter. That was more than double the total from a year earlier and the second-highest quarterly total since the truck went on sale.
On Wednesday, General Motors, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai and Kia reported increases of 14 percent or more. Overall, automakers sold more than 4.1 million cars and trucks in the second quarter, according to Cox Automotive, a market research firm, an increase of 16 percent from a year earlier. The total, however, was about 400,000 fewer cars than the industry typically sold in the second quarter before the coronavirus pandemic.
Sales remain below their prepandemic levels because parts shortages have forced automakers to produce fewer vehicles for much of the last three years. The supply of computer chips, which have been particularly hard to get, has improved in recent months, allowing automakers to produce more of the vehicles that consumers have been waiting to buy.
Cox now expects total 2023 sales to exceed 15 million vehicles. While that would be a big increase from last year’s 13.9 million, it is well below the 17 million the industry sold before the pandemic.
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman and chief content officer of the NBCUniversal Studio Group, where she will oversee content strategy across all of NBCUniversal’s film and TV studios, TheWrap has confirmed.
“Donna has been shaping the cultural conversation and creating the framework for what a modern-day studio can accomplish through bold content, impactful marketing and business model innovation,” Comcast president Mike Cavanagh said in a memo to employees. “She will leverage her longstanding relationships with the creative community and ability to partner with the most prolific storytellers in our business to unlock a seamless cross-portfolio creative strategy including programming, distribution and marketing across Film, Television and Streaming.”
Additionally, Mark Lazarus has been promoted to NBCUniversal Media Group chairman. Lazarus will continue to run the company’s TV networks, direct to consumer business, including Peacock, as well as the NBC Sports Group and NBC affiliate stations. In addition, he will oversee advertising sales, which will continue to report to interim chairman of global advertising and partnerships Mark Marshall, and content distribution, which will continue to report to the division’s chairman Matt Bond.
“Together, these businesses comprised more than $20 billion in revenue last year,” Comcast president Mike Cavanagh said in a memo to employees. “Mark’s decades of experience running television, sports and advertising sales – both within NBCUniversal and earlier in his career – will be critical to the long-term growth of NBCUniversal’s media business.”
The executive-shakeup marks the first major move since Cavanagh assumed the duties of former NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell, who was ousted from the company in April.
As part of the restructuring, Susan Rovner, who had led TV and streaming entertainment content, is exiting the company.
George Tickner, the original rhythm guitarist for classic rock band Journey who left in 1975 to pursue a medical degree several years before the group’s breakthrough single “Wheel In The Sky,” has died. He was 76.
His death was announced by Journey co-founder and lead guitarist Neal Schon. A cause of death was not disclosed.
“Journey Junkies, I have some very sad news,” Schon wrote on Facebook. “George Tickner, Journey’s original rhythm guitarist and songwriting contributor on their first three albums, has passed away.”
Although Tickner officially played on only one on the band’s albums – 1975’s Journey – to pursue a medical degree on full scholarship at Stanford University, he is credited with writing songs on that album as well as the band’s subsequent two, Look Into The Future (1976) and Next (1977).
The band’s big breakthrough came with the arrival in 1977 of singer Steve Perry and the 1978 album Infinity, which included the hits “Wheel In The Sky” and “Lights.”
Journey’s self-titled debut album, released two years after the band’s founding, included the song “Of a Lifetime,” co-written by Tickner and described by Schon in his Facebook tribute as “still one of my favorite songs ever.”
Formed by Santana manager Herbie Herbert, the group that would soon become Journey originally included Schon, Tickner, keyboard player and vocalist Gregg Rolle, bassist Ross Valory and, briefly, drummer Prairie Prince, who rejoined his previous band The Tubes after just a month with Journey; he was replaced with David Bowie drummer Aynsley Dunbar.
Lindsey Shaw, who starred as Paige in five seasons of Pretty Little Liars, opened up to her Ned’s Declassified costars on their podcast about how “awful” it was to find out she was being fired from PLL.
Jess Search, a titan of the documentary world and co-founder of the U.K.-headquartered Doc Society, is stepping away after 18 years following a brain tumor diagnosis.
“Today I am sharing that I’m currently under the care of a neurosurgeon because like 300,000 others every year around the world, I’ve been diagnosed with a brain tumour,” Search wrote. “I’m stepping back from Doc Society — after 18 years of nonstop creative collaboration, dedicated craft, joyous partying and fierce camaraderie.”
Search, a well-respected leader and fierce advocate for the doc community, noted that the org has been led for years by six female directors in a “flat, power-sharing model.” “So I can do this, knowing that someone else will step in to be unfeasibly late for meetings and break the printer constantly,” joked Search.
“Whether you know me from a distance or up close and personal, I want to acknowledge that as a newsletter announcement, this is pretty heavy stuff,” said Search. “But know that I am extremely calm and have literally everything I need around me.”
The org will continue to be led by directors Megha Sood, Shanida Scotland, Sandra Whipham, Beadie Finzi and Maxyne Franklin.
Formed in 2005, Doc Society — formerly known as BRITDOC — is a non-profit group based out of the U.K. and New York. The org has funded and executive prodcued 520 film teams from 75 countries in its 18-year history.
Doc Society last week announced the launch of a global Democracy Story Unit to sit alongside its Climate Story Unit. It is also at work on an Independence Project – a co-created global research project that will “fully articulate the unique and vital contribution to society, culture and democracy of independent film” and create a manifesto that details the support required from distributors, funders and commissioners.
“In the course of the last few weeks as dear friends, co-conspirators and forever dance partners, we had to absorb the personal calamity of Jess’s diagnosis,” wrote the five directors in a joint statement.
“But the knowledge that it is not a calamity for the organisation is a source of strength and pride. It’s in these moments that the work is our guiding light. Doc Society’s mission to support independent filmmakers and cultural organisers stands as true now as it did the day we penned it.”
While many aspects of James Gunn’sMCU trilogy closer have been celebrated, one of the highlights of the film for many was Chukwudi Iwuji’s terrifying portrayal of the Marvel Comics villain, and the creator of Rocket, the High Evolutionary.
And despite seemingly being killed off at the tail-end of Guardians 3, some speculated the film’s big bad may have survived, as Dave Bautista’s Drax could be seen carrying someone’s body from the wreckage of the film’s climactic ship battle.
After being previously teased by director James Gunn, fans finally can watch the deleted scene from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 which confirms an oft-speculated villain twist from the film.
Marvel Studios
The sequence, as revealed by IGN, sees Bradley Cooper’sRocket Raccoon locking up Chukwudi Iwuji’s High Evolutionary on Knowhere following the climactic showdown with the intergalactic adversary.
Marvel Studios
Following his defeat and capture, Iwuji’s Guardians character is visibly upset, as – in a quite grotesque manner – he tries to reattach dangling pieces of his face.
Marvel Studios
The other half of the deleted scene focuses on Sean Gunn’s Kraglin introducing himself to Guardians newcomer Adam Warlock (played by Will Poulter), seemingly teasing the assembly of the new team roster.
Marvel Studios
The two exchange pleasantries before Kraglin jokes about Poulter’s hero name just being Adam. He says a hero must have “something metal” for their name, suggesting “Molly Hatchet, Iron Maiden, [or] Def Leppard,” to which Poulter retorts, “I like Adam.”
Watch the full scene below:
Will the High Evolutionary Return to the MCU?
While many audience members left the theater thinking Chukwudi Iwuji’s High Evolutionary had died at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy 3, it seems as though that is not the case.
Yes, including this deleted scene in the movie would have 100% confirmed that Iwuji’s Marvel villain had survived the proceedings, but it is pretty easy for one to see why Marvel Studios and James Gunn opted to cut it.
Removing this sequence adds some questionability to High Evolutionary’s fate, making fans wonder if the character is in fact done with the franchise, but also leaving the door open for his return should the studio want another go-round with the actor and the character.
And it now seems likely Iwuji’s intergalactic scientist will be back in some form within the MCU.
Marvel knows when they have a good thing, and – though it may be quite some time before the Guardians villain returns – it would not be all that surprising if he were to pop up again in the future.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will be available for purchase on digital storefronts starting July 7.
And despite being called “the kind of movie we need now” and “one of the best superhero movies [ever]” by the likes of Hollywood greats like Tom Cruise and DC Studios head James Gunn, the movie has not had the legs the Warner Bros. may have thought it would.
Given The Flash‘s paltry box office numbers, the Andy Muschetti-directed DC film has earned the title of the biggest box office flop in superhero movie history.
Because of The Flash‘s reported $220 million budget (and $150 million promotional budget), the movie is likely set to lose over $200M for Warner Bros. which would be the biggest financial loss suffered by a studio because of a superhero film.
Ezra Miller’s long-gestating DC solo outing earned a meager $5.23 million in its third weekend in theaters, bringing its domestic total to a lean $99 million.
Much was written about the movie’s box office shortcomings after its more than 70% drop from its first-to-second weekend, but this third-week number means the film was hit with another 62.5% drop in revenue from its already dismal second-week total.
To put it into perspective, even big-budget films that were released during the height of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic like Wonder Woman 1984 (which lost more than $100 million) did not fare as poorly as The Flash did comparatively.
The Flash dethrones Warner’s previous DC movie Shazam! Fury of the Gods for this infelicitous crown, a film that lost an estimated $150 million after making a meager $57.6 million at the domestic box office.
The top 10 biggest superhero box office flops (not adjusted for inflation) list looks as follows:
The Flash – $200 million (estimated)
Shazam! Fury of the Gods – $150 million (estimated)
Wonder Woman 1984 – $137 million
Dark Phoenix – $133 million
The Suicide Squad– $130 million
Black Adam – $100 million
Fantastic Four – $100 million
R.I.P.D – $92 million
The New Mutants – $84 million
Green Lantern – $75 million
What The Flash’s Box Office Means for DC
To say The Flash has missed the mark for Warner Bros. (WB) and DC would be an understatement. The film (along with its direct DC predecessor Shazam 2) could very well have done irreparable damage to the super-powered brand.
Yes, Warner had to release Ezra Miller’s movie at some point, having been working on it in this form since 2019. It was a sunk cost, and they could not just cancel it.
However, putting the money into it that was (especially on the promotional side) feels almost irresponsible. There had to have been internal indicators telling the studio this sort of financial return was coming, no matter how many Hollywood bigwigs came out in support of the movie.
Ever since the announcement that James Gunn and Peter Safran would be taking over the DCU and pushing in a new era, momentum on the franchise has been slowing down. So, the indicators were there.
If the writing was on the wall, maybe a reevaluation of strategy could have been in line going into the release of the movie.
And with two more DC movies still to debut before the Gunn/Safran in Blue Beetle and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, the downward spiral seems primed to continue for the franchise – at least from a financial perspective.
One can only hope that one (or both) of those two remaining movies is at least good, and the blue brand can start to pick back up steam with the release of 2025’s Superman: Legacy.
As Twitter faces a significant new challenge from Instagram offshoot Threads, CEO Linda Yaccarino is defending her turf.
As was her wont throughout her tenure heading up advertising sales for NBCUniversal, Yaccarino clapped back after Threads received generally positive response to its Wednesday launch.
“We’re often imitated — but the Twitter community can never be duplicated,” Yaccarino tweeted, without naming any specific imitators. Unlike her occasionally sharp-elbowed digs delivered on the stage of Radio City Music Hall, however, the exec’s message was more a bouquet-toss to users than a poke at rivals. “On Twitter, everyone’s voice matters,” she wrote. “Whether you’re here to watch history unfold, discover REAL-TIME information all over the world, share your opinions, or learn about others — on Twitter YOU can be real. YOU built the Twitter community. And that’s irreplaceable.”
Repeating a term often used by Elon Musk, who bought Twitter last fall for $44 billion, she told users the platform “is your public square.”
Threads went live on Wednesday evening. The app was built “for sharing text updates and joining public conversations,” according to the blog post timed to the launch. Because of the already-massive scale of Instagram and Meta’s other social networks, Threads rapidly gained millions of users in its initial hours of availability. Users can log in using their existing Instagram account. The company said posts can be up to 500 characters long and include links, photos and videos up to 5 minutes in length.
Reviews have been mixed-to-positive, with some noting certain core functionality from Twitter that is not yet a feature on Threads. A prevailing theme in coverage and user reaction has been the sense that Threads is a throwback to a more organic stage of social media. Twitter’s current incarnation has been criticized by advertisers and users for its instability, alterations to its feed, user verification plan and other issues. Just recently, Musk had to play defense yet again after imposing a deeply unpopular limit on the number of tweets users without paid verification could see.
Here is Yaccarino’s tweet:
On Twitter, everyone’s voice matters.
Whether you’re here to watch history unfold, discover REAL-TIME information all over the world, share your opinions, or learn about others — on Twitter YOU can be real.
YOU built the Twitter community. ?? And that’s irreplaceable. This…
Sidelined after an accident, hotshot Los Angeles lawyer Mickey Haller restarts his career — and his trademark Lincoln — when he takes on a murder case.
Certificate:Suitable for ages 15 and up
Year: 2023
Duration: 2 Seasons
Available Seasons: Season 1 (10 Ep)
Audio: English – Audio Description, English [Original], European Spanish, French, Hindi, Polish, Brazilian Portuguese
Subtitles: Arabic, English, French, Polish, Ukrainian, Traditional Chinese
Status: Returning Series”The Lincoln Lawyer” is a TV show produced by A+E Studios, ABC Signature and David E. Kelley Productions. The show was originally broadcast on Netflix and premiered on May 13th 2022. So far there have been 2 seasons (comprising of 20 episodes) of “The Lincoln Lawyer”. The most recent episode aired on May 13th 2022 and more seasons are expected in the future.
Kevin Spacey launched “machine gun” of “horrific” sexual comments at one of his accusers, leaving the alleged victim feeling “belittled and worthless,” a court heard today.
The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said the incident happened at a West End theater in London in the mid-2000s and alleged the House of Cards actor then touched him in an intimate area. He made the allegations in a police interview seen today by the jury at Southwark Crown Court.
The man said today under cross-examination that the alleged assault felt like it lasted an “eternity.”
He added he felt “incredulous that [Spacey] could be so insensitive” and claimed the actor’s decision to come out as gay was “somebody not taking ownership” but instead allowed him to “disguise” his behavior.
The Hollywood star’s lawyer, Patrick Gibbs KC, suggested that episode was untrue, to which the alleged victim replied: “With the greatest of respect, you weren’t there and I was and it was horrific. I have never had anyone speak to me like that, ever.”
Asked how it was possible nobody witnessed the “15-20 minutes” of alleged vile comments, the man said: “I think it’s the phrase, ‘hiding in plain sight.’ It was like a machine gun, a torrent, and that’s all I can say – it went on and on and on.”
Gibbs suggested neither the language or sexual assault had happened, to which the man responded: “No one has the right to invade your space and touch you in that way – no one has the right to do that.”
“It makes no sense that someone would do that to another human being. It absolutely did happen,” he added.
The complainant, who is the third of four due to give evidence against the actor, called the alleged incident “horrific” and said it made him feel “subhuman.” As the man took to the witness box, Gibbs said to him that there was “quite a number of things that you told police that are completely untrue,” including the suggestion Spacey had turned up “smelling of booze.”
The man countered: “That was my impression and that’s what I smelt.”
After Mr Gibbs suggested that was “completely untrue,” the complainant replied: “You can suggest it but, with the greatest respect, you weren’t there.”
The alleged victim also denied Gibbs’ suggestion Spacey was “relaxed and friendly – to everyone he met,” saying: “He may have been relaxed and friendly with people with status, he certainly wasn’t relaxed and friendly to me.”
Gibbs told jurors earlier this week they would hear “many damned lies” and “some deliberate exaggerations” during the trial. Spacey himself may not testify but is expected to attend each day the court sits.
Oscar-winning American Beauty star Spacey (who is being tried in the UK under his real name Kevin Spacey Fowler) denies 12 charges against him, which include three counts of indecent assault and seven overall charges of sexual assault, alleged to have been committed between 2001 and 2013.
The trial is nearing the end of its first week, and has been dominated by witness testimony from the complainants. Yesterday, the third alleged victim said he had initially put his allegations “in a box” because the Oscar-winning actor was seen as a “golden boy.” The man alleged Spacey grabbed him “like a cobra,” made “hardcore” remarks to him and was unrepentant about his actions.
He claimed today he did not immediately tell people about the assault as it was “way before MeToo” and could seen him labelled as a “troublemaker.”
Another alleged victim, who had been the actor’s driver, said Spacey “grabbed me so hard I nearly came off the road,” and claimed to have been touched on the penis up to six times against his will.
The prosecution has labeled him a “sexual bully.”
In an initial court hearing in June, Gibbs said his client “strenuously denies any and all criminality in this case.” Spacey said before the trial he expects to land acting work immediately if he is found not guilty.
What makes a good short film? Well, at Sunday Treat we think it needs to represent the writer & directors style in a short package that they can use to hone their craft in a safe space with relatively low stakes surrounded by people who need to also enjoy and get something out of the process on an individual level. What makes a GREAT short film, well that’s subjective and comes with a lot of nuance but strong character development, a unique and memorable concept, skillful visual storytelling & editing and a comment on our wider society can all help a lot.
Making a short film is a huge time & creative commitment for everyone involved and if you can assemble the right set of people around the right idea then it’s a joy to see it all come together. I’ve been directing short films since I was 13 years old and more than any other medium they allowed me to develop my skills, network and portfolio with my next project in mind. Now running a Creative Production Agency, we have a full time team and we realised that many of the benefits of the process of making short films can help the team culture just as much as it helped me on an individual level.
Sunday Treat are a London video production company founded on a strong culture of team growth and creative exploration. To keep this culture growing we embark on our Sunday Treat Originals projects which are entirely self funded for the purpose of giving emerging artists unique opportunities and having a lot of fun along the way!
Our latest Originals project, Sliced Bread imagines a world in which sliced bread was never invented, that is until our protagonist inadvertently invents it one morning and the world goes mad! The seed of the idea formed years ago when myself (Managing Director at Sunday Treat) and Oli Clubb (Creative Director at Sunday Treat) discussed how we could make a film that showcased many different locations, actors and cultures in one short package.
We created the project with our usual indie filmmaking spirit. You can see the BTS here which shows our sketchy storyboards, various different scales of shoot day depending on the scenes, the lockdown virtual edit process and our grade & VFX passes.
Sliced Bread was our 10th Sunday Treat Originals project, with Oli & I creating our first way back in 2010 whilst still at Bournemouth University together. Sliced Bread had earned official selection in 25 festivals and showcases our creativity at it’s silliest!
For our 11th Originals project we’re looking to mix up the team, process and give a voice to a totally different creative team… below is our brief:
Comedy film fund for emerging directors
We are currently looking for our next Originals project, and putting the callout to any writers or directors who might be interested. We are offering up to £10K as a production budget and the full weight of Sunday Treat’s production capabilities, network, kit, experience & creativity.
The Brief
Scripts/treatments for comedy shorts under 3-minutes that can be about any topic
Live-action single projects that work in a self-contained way
Ideas could be a single conversation in grounded reality or many scenes completely off the wall
Scripted either by yourself or great talent that you know even if the script isn’t written yet
So, if you want to make some comedy with an enthusiastic and committed team of creatives then send a pitch or treatment with your idea hello@sundaytreat.com and we can chat through!
How you present this is up to you; a script, a visual treatment deck or a simple one pager would all be fine. We’re happy with the format that’s best for your project.
Get it over to us before the deadline of the 14th August and we’ll get back to with thoughts & feedback regardless of the outcome.
We’re looking to produce this next Sunday Treat Originals project this summer, and your/ your networks role in the project can be totally dictated by your ambitions.
For a deeper dive into the kind of thing we like to make at Sunday Treat, check out our Originals page on our website, our About Page for more on our culture and a few more short films from our archive below:
Dragon – what happens when Brian Blessed gets paired with his favourite animal?
Lucky Chicken – a butcher, a baker, a candlestick maker and… a magic chicken? Featuring Will Merrick, Marek Larwood and Naomi Stafford in a completely silent short film.
Small Town Politics – a mini series inspired by the true story of the youngest mayor in the country.
Pot Plant – the result of a very enjoyable 24 hour film festival, a couple are desperate to fix their relationship issues stemming primarily from the husbands tendency to turn into a Pot Plant whenever he gets nervous
Gulliver has been working in the film & video industry since 2013, starting his career as a freelance director & producer working in branded content, commercials & TV before founding Sunday Treat in 2020, a Creative Production Agency with a focus on comedy & fun content.
Hot off the heels of a five-star award from us for the affordable FT3 wired headphones, audio brand Fiio is now launching a set of wireless earbuds, the Fiio FW3, and the list of hi-res technologies supported here is just ridiculous for a pair of buds priced at $99 / £95 (approx. AU$180).
Behind the sea-shell-like design of the earbuds lies support for Snapdragon Sound, aptX Adaptive, LHDC and LDAC, all pumped through an AK4332 DAC with 96kHz and 24-bit audio support, before reaching a large 10mm driver. And they support Bluetooth 5.2, which means they could theoretically support the higher-quality LC3 codec in Bluetooth LE Audio in the future.
This is a frankly ridiculous amount of audio finesse for a pair of buds competing against the best budget earbuds. You do get support for some of this stuff from other cheap buds – the excellent Cambridge Audio Melomania 1 Plus offer aptX, while the Earfun Air Pro 3 are geared up for LC3 and LE Audio – but to offer all of this is faintly ridiculous.
And based on how good we found the sound quality of Fiio’s last headphones in our Fiio FT3 review, we’re expecting big things for the audio here.
(Image credit: Fiio)
However, there’s one obvious and notable casualty here: the FW3 don’t offer any active noise cancellation. For the same price, you can get the awesome Sony WF-C700N with superb noise-stopping power… but those don’t include any hi-res audio support, not even for Sony‘s own LDAC tech, which is supported by the Fiio FW3. Oh, what a tangled audio web we weave.
So you can take your pick between extreme audio fidelity if you get hi-res music from the likes of Apple Music or Tidal, or outside noise being stamped out. Well, or you can spend over double the price for some of the premium options in our list list of the best wireless earbuds.
The battery life on the Fiio FW3 is solid too, though 7 hours from the buds and 14 additional hours from the case are pretty average for non-ANC buds.
Take control
(Image credit: Fiio)
The FW3’s audiophile cred doesn’t stop at its connectivity options. The app gives you control of a 10-band EQ if you want to finesse the balance beyond how it comes out of the box, and there’s left/right channel balance adjustment. You can actually set what Bluetooth codec you want the earbuds to prioritize, so if you switch between device, you can make sure they’re trying to reach your phone through LDAC or aptX if you specifically prefer one.
Most interesting of all, though, is the Lowpass Filter mode control. You can choose between Steep Drop, Slow Drop, Short Delay Steep Drop, Short Delay Slow Drop modes for the low-pass filtering in the DAC. This is something that only the most extreme audiophiles would ever really want to tinker with (or have any chance of hearing the difference in them), and is – let’s be clear – wildly unnecessary for just about everyone else. But it’s pretty cool!
I’m looking forward to see how these things perform in real life, but the competition among the best true wireless earbuds has just been getting hotter and hotter, and having these hi-fi focused brands coming in to keep a focus on audio quality is very welcome – especially when it doesn’t come at a huge price.
With the countdown underway to the July 12 release of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning, Paramount on Wednesday released the latest behind-the-scenes look at how Tom Cruise and team pulled off one of the pic’s mega-stunts.
This one involves a showdown on a fast-moving train that includes Cruise’s Ethan Hunt fighting Esai Morales’ Gabriel on the roof of an actual train car as it hurls down the tracks at 60 mph. Eventually it plunges off a blown-up bridge as Ethan and Hayley Atwell’s Grace cling for dear life.
Previously, BTS videos of M:I – Dead Reckoning Part One showed off Cruise’s wild motorcycle stunt in which he jumps with the bike off the edge of a massive mountain cliff, deploying his parachute mid-fall. Cruise called that stunt, which he and his team had been working on for years, the “biggest in cinema history.”
As per usual with M:I, the stunts are practical rather than VFX-heavy, and they feature the same stuntman: Cruise.
For the train sequence, an actual train had to be built so the team could destroy it in the plunge; the shoot was done at a rock quarry in the UK and “involved multiple factors of difficulty,” McQuarrie says in the video, which shows the many cameras and angles used for the one-chance-only shot.
Scotland’s STV Studios has acquired the 15 companies operated by “Lego Masters” company Greenbird Media for £21.4 million ($27.3 million). Israel’s Keshet International acquired 60% of Greenbird five years ago. STV Studios has now acquired 100% of Greenbird, including Keshet’s stake.
Greenbird founders, Jamie Munro and Stuart Mullin, will join the STV Studios board in the roles of chief commercial officer and finance and integration director respectively, working alongside COO, Paul Sheehan, and under the leadership of MD, David Mortimer.
The deal boosts the number of labels within STV Studios from nine to 24. As a result of the acquisition, STV Studios now has expanded bases in Glasgow and London, as well as offices in Cardiff, Belfast, Brighton and Manchester.
Hit shows made by the producers in Greenbird’s cluster include: “Lego Masters” (Tuesday’s Child for Channel 4/Fox) and “The Hit List” (Tuesday’s Child for BBC One); BAFTA-winning “The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan” (Rumpus Media for BBC Two) and “Late Night Lycett” (Rumpus Media for Channel 4); “Kate Garraway: Caring for Derek” (Flicker for ITV1); and “Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing” (Owl Power for BBC Two).
HONG KONG CRIME DRAMA SET FOR NEW YORK PREMIERE
“Forensic Psychologist,” a Hong Kong crime drama series with a cast led by Jeannie Chan (“Flying Tiger 3”), will have its world premiere at the Festival of Cinema NYC in New York next month (Aug. 4-13). The 12-part series follows a psychologist who must investigate suspects to determine if they are mentally fit to stand trial. In the interrogation room the doctor’s professional and personal lives begin to blur with those she is probing. The series is created by Bizhan Tong and produced by Phoenix Waters Productions, with an English language version now in development.
Tong has multiple other projects for release this year. A Hong Kong remake of Richard Linklater’s movie “Tape” starring Kenny Kwan, Selena Lee, and Adam Pak completed post production last month. So too did the Tong-produced British horror comedy “Murder Ballads” from director Mitchell Tolliday.
Seb Shorr, executive VP, commercial and business affairs, scripted has been promoted to the newly-created role of chief operating officer for Fremantle’s drama and film business, reporting to Christian Vesper, Fremantle’s CEO global drama.
Working with Vesper, Shorr will support the strategic and operational goals of the drama labels within the Fremantle Group – The Apartment, Dancing Ledge Productions, Element Pictures, Euston Films, Lux Vide, Miso Film, Passenger and Wildside. He will also provide strategic support and help further grow Fremantle’s talent partnerships and deals, which include “Chernobyl” director Johan Renck and Michael Paret’s newly launched production company Sinestra; Michael Winterbottom’s Revolution Films; Afua Hirsch’s Born In Me; and the two-year first-look deal with Nine Hours, the production label set up by Oscar, BAFTA and Emmy-nominated director Edward Berger.
FESTIVAL
The 40th Jerusalem Film Festival will open on July 13 with Guy Nattiv’s “Golda,” starring Helen Mirren. Achievement awards will be presented at the opening ceremony to Mirren, Oliver Stone and Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne.
Claire Denis will preside over the international competition jury, which will also include fellow directors Whit Stillman, Florian Zeller and Maria Schrader, as well as Sundance Institute CEO Joana Vicente.
Other members of the various juries include director Kornél Mundruczó (president of the Israeli competition jury), directors Jasmila Žbanić, Ali Abbasi, Sebastian Meise, Julian Rosefeldt, Joseph Cedar, Sébastien Lifshitz, Barbara Albert, Alexandru Belc and Manuela Martelli, as well as Locarno Film Festival’s Mathilde Henrot.
DEPARTURE
Seetha Kumar, chief executive of ScreenSkills, the industry-led skills body for the screen industries, will step down at the end of December 2023. Kumar was appointed in 2015 and led the organization through its transformation from Creative Skillset to ScreenSkills in 2018. Under her leadership, ScreenSkills’ six Skills Funds – in partnership with broadcasters, streamers, independent production companies and industry organizations – have delivered a portfolio of successful training programmes and initiatives in response to industry demand.
FORMAT
TF1 in France and Vox in Germany will produce editions of “My Mum, Your Dad,” the second chance dating format created by Greg Daniels and Haley Daniels with ITV America’s ITV Entertainment, originally for HBO Max. ITV Studios France and ITV Studios Germany will produce the series in their respective markets. The U.K. version will be hosted by Davina McCall and produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios, for ITV1 and ITVX this fall.
The format has aired successfully on TV4, produced by ITV Studios Sweden and Nine Network, produced by ITV Studios Australia where a second season is underway. ThreeNow and Three have commissioned the show in New Zealand where it will be a co-production between Warner Bros. International Television Production and ITV Studios Australia, taking the number of announced versions of the show to seven.
PRODUCTION
Director Dustin Ferguson’s remake of Jack Hill’s 1967 cult classic horror film “Spider Baby, or the Maddest Story Ever Told” has wrapped principal photography in L.A. The film, from SCS Entertainment, tells of a pair of greedy relatives that try to repossess the Merrye Estate but the inbred children protect their home and bloodline at all costs.
The cast includes Beverly Washburn, Brinke Stevens, Robert Mukes, Ron Chaney, Peter Stickles,Traci Burr, Jennifer Moriarty and Vida Ghaffari.
ACQUISITIONS
Uncork’d Entertainment has acquired Jacques Molitor‘s Frightfest favorite body horror “Wolfkin.” In the film, single mother Elaine, disturbed by her son Martin’s aggressive behavior and sudden physical changes, visits his late father’s estranged family in small-town Luxembourg – where a much darker secret lurks. When she realizes that Martin could become like them, Elaine is forced into a desperate fight for her son’s future.
The cast includes Louise Manteau, Victor Dieu, Marja-Leena Junker and Jules Werner. The film will be released on home video formats and digital platforms Aug. 8.
The deal was negotiated between Keith Leopard, president, Uncork’d Entertainment and Gregory Chambet of WTFilms.
***
Virgil Films has acquired North American rights to musical-comedy-thriller “Open,” directed by Miles Doleac. The film, written by Doleac and Lindsay Anne Williams and produced by Doleac, Williams and Elena Sanchez, tells the story of a woman in a troubled marriage who falls for a former TV star, who’s fallen from industry favor, while having nagging (and empowering) hallucinations about fronting an 1980’s new wave band. The film stars Jeremy London, Williams, Doleac, Sanchez and William Forsythe.
“Open” will release in November theatrically and digitally. The deal was negotiated between Jeff Cooper of Cut Entertainment and Joe Amodei of Virgil.
The sculpture is 30 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 10 feet high.
Prominent sculptor DaVinchi Suresh has sculptured the first look of the movie Chaaver in the sand at Munambam Beach.
Chaaver, the upcoming Malayalam movie by Tinu Pappachan, has already created a lot of buzz before its release. The mysterious title poster and the teaser of Chaaver have raised the expectations of the audience. The movie stars Kunchacko Boban, Antony Varghese, and Arjun Ashokan in prominent roles.
Renowned artist DaVinchi Suresh has created a stunning sand art masterpiece at Munambam Beach to reveal the initial look of the movie. The artwork, measuring thirty feet in length, twenty feet in width, and ten feet in height, has captured the attention of onlookers. Lead actors Kunchacko Boban, Anthony Varghese, and Arjun Asokan visited the beach to witness the impressive creation in person. The sand art showcases the three dynamic characters, radiating with brilliant ideas and youthful energy. The movie’s poster features Kunchacko Boban, sporting an intense look with his fiery haircut and beard.
Alongside Kunchacko Boban, the film stars talented actors such as Manoj KU, Anurup, Sajin, Joy Mathew, Deepak Parambol, Arun Narayan, and Sangeeta Madhavan. The production team had previously released a wanted notice, teasing Kunchacko Boban’s character, Ashokan, in the film. The sand art display and the intriguing poster have generated anticipation for this upcoming cinematic venture.
This will be Tinu Pappachan’s third release after Swathandrayam Ardarathriyil and Ajagajantharam and is teaming up with Kunchacko Boban for the first time in Chaaver.
Chaaver is written by actor and director Joy Mathew and produced by Arun Narayan and Venu Kunnappilly. The cinematography of the movie is done by Jinro George and the editing part is handled by Nishad Yusuf. The music is given by Justin Varghese and the production design is done by Gokul Das. The production control and sound design are done by Azad Kandykal and Ranganath Ravi respectively.
DaVinchi Suresh: A Star In Himself
DaVinchi Suresh, a passionate artist since childhood, proudly labels himself as a big fan of movies. With a dream to create art in at least 100 different mediums, he has already achieved a remarkable milestone of eighty sculptures. One of his notable creations includes a mascot for Theyyam, crafted using a staggering 25,000 biscuits of varying sizes, colours, and shapes. This impressive art piece stands twenty feet tall and required fifteen hours of dedicated work to reach completion.
Entertainment Bureau brings you all updates from the world of entertainment — breaking news, Twitter trends, features, movie reviews, exclusive inter…Read More
While Sony crammed Spider-Verse 2 with Spider-People and web-slinging references, one of the biggest surprises came when the actor appeared on-screen in a Prowler suit, trapped in the Spider Society headquarters.
Not only was his role one of the animated sequel’s uses of live-action actors, but a meta nod to real-life efforts to cast Glover as Spidey, as well as his brief Spider-Man: Homecoming role as Miles’ Uncle Aaron, prompting fans to wonder if his Spider-Verse cameo was, in fact, a character reprisal.
Spider-Verse Art Confirms MCU Status of Donald Glover’s Prowler
Twitter
Kristafer Anka, a comic book artist and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse contributor, posted concept art of Donald Glover’s Prowler design which referred to him as the “MCU Prowler.”
Twitter
This seemingly confirms Glover’s Homecoming cameo, where he references his nephew, is more than just a wink to Miles Morales’ story but actual confirmation of a Prowler Variant’s existence in the MCU.
Sony
While Anka doesn’t specifically say Glover’s character is the MCU’s on-screen Prowler, the artwork is labeled as such.
Twitter
In Anka’s Twitter post, he described how he was inspired by “racing suits and riot gear” in designing the Prowler’s suit:
“’We have a Prowler’ One of the more fun surprising assignments was getting to lay down some first pass designs for the #DonaldGlover #Prowler I looked at racing suits and riot gear to try to translate the prowler design into real life”
Twitter
The Future of Donald Glover’s Prowler?
Given the ties Sony is establishing between its live-action Spider-Man Universe, the animated Spider-Verse, and the MCU, Donald Glover’s Prowler being the Marvel Studios Prowler was expected.
But even so, fans are sure to appreciate the confirmation as it not only lends more to Glover’s Homecoming cameo but also the MCU existence of a Miles Morales.
Unfortunately, however, this doesn’t mean Glover will continue to appear in either the Spider-Verse or the MCU.
Therefore, it seems his presence wasn’t a set-up for a future role but rather just a fun idea.
But again, that was before Across the Spider-Verse premiered and the audience’s enthusiastic reaction to the role. And, with so many Spidey stories still in the fire, including Spider-Man 4 and Beyond the Spider-Verse, plans could easily change.
As for Anka’s inspiration for the Prowler’s live-action suit, the riot gear and racing suits are interesting. Not only do they ground Into the Spider-Verse‘s dramatic suit into the real-world feel of the MCU, but they provide insight into the background of this Aaron Davis Variant.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is playing in theaters worldwide; Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse arrives in theaters on March 29, 2024.
The Purge saga seemed to have everything ready for its next installment after the epic outcome of The Forever Purge. However, the plans are not going as expected and the new movie might be in doubt.
James DeMarco, creator of the horror story produced by Blumhouse and Universal Pictures confessed to The Playlist that he is having trouble moving forward with the sixth film of The Purge:
“I wrote the script. Universal has seen it. There are concerns about budget, but it definitely presents a fractured America. The America I present in Purge 6 is where we are all separated by ideology and sexual preference. So, the states are broken down in different ways. It’s written, it’s in [Universal’s] hands. I think they’re scared about the budget. But my thing was if I was going to come back and direct a sixth one, it was going to be something bigger and a little more epic in scope, with this new America I want to present and bringing back [Frank Grillo’s] character. So, it’s kinda in limbo.”
The first The Purge film was released in 2013, featuring a family man who is dedicated to developing security systems that are used during the night where The Purge is celebrated. It is an event that occurs once a year, and in which, for 12 hours at night, all crimes are allowed and have no consequences. Including murder.
In the next installment, Leo Barnes was introduced, Frank Grillo’s character, a police sergeant who seeks revenge for the death of his son, but ends up involved in something much bigger when he crosses paths with other people during the night of The Purge.
In the third installment, Barnes is in charge of safeguarding a presidential candidate during the night of The Purge. However, they are betrayed and must escape, facing the dangers of the street on the most terrifying night of the year. So, without a doubt, the return of Leo would be a good way to continue the legacy of the films and bring the entire universe of The Purge back together.
How The Forever Purge Set Up a New Beginning for the Franchise
Universal Pictures
In The Forever Purge the audience follows the story of Adela and Juan, an immigrant couple who work in Texas, she in a local business and he in a ranch. Having safely spent the night of The Purge, they report to work the next day only to be met by a group of Purgers who are determined to perpetuate the celebration of The Purge beyond 12 hours a year.
With the country plunged into chaos by these extremist groups willing to murder freely, the film ends by presenting a United States divided between those who are in favor and those who are against The Purge, so the sixth installment will have to address this issue.
The setting in which the next film in the franchise takes place will possibly be plunged into absolute anarchy, something that would be very interesting within the universe of The Purge.
As teased, Meta’s launched its Twitter rival, timed perfectly to capitalize on the latter’s recent struggles and contractions. Threads has started rolling out worldwide, though it won’t be available in the European Union until the company addresses potential regulatory concerns.
Some basic features are missing – the sort of thing Twitter (and normal Instagram) is already capable of. That includes hashtags (!), account switching on the same device and post editing. The company described Threads as a “separate space for real-time updates and public conversations,” which relies on users’ Instagram credentials but will eventually be compatible with a wider swath of decentralized services like Mastodon.
If you haven’t tried it already, you log in to Threads with your existing Instagram account – or make a new one. Usernames and verification status carry over, although you can tweak your bio and profile if you want to change it up from your Instagram one. It’s all very old Twitter in style, with support for text posts up to 500 characters, as well as photos and videos. Threads will also support reposts — its version of a retweet — as well as quote posts. Users can limit their replies and block and report other users, thankfully.
At this early stage, Threads is a reminder for all the users on Instagram that I muted long ago. Remember, just because you can post something to Threads, you don’t have to. (But we all know I did anyway.)
– Mat Smith
You can get these reports delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here!
Samsung has confirmed the date of its latest Unpacked product launch. The event will take place on July 26th at 7 AM ET, the company announced today. The early start is because Samsung will stream from Seoul, South Korea – home territory. When Samsung began teasing Unpacked last month, it promised the event would feature its latest generation of foldable devices. In other words, expect new iterations of the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip. Because it’s Samsung, though, don’t be surprised to see more wearables or even a tablet. Even if you didn’t ask for either.
The announcement comes as governments debate how to regulate AI technologies.
OpenAI is forming a dedicated team to manage the risks of superintelligent AI. A superintelligence is a hypothetical AI model smarter than even the most gifted and intelligent human, and it excels in multiple areas of expertise instead of one domain, like some previous-generation models. OpenAI believes such a model could arrive before the end of the decade.
“Superintelligence will be the most impactful technology humanity has ever invented and could help us solve many of the world’s most important problems,” the non-profit said. “But the vast power of superintelligence could also be very dangerous and could lead to the disempowerment of humanity or even human extinction.” I hope they recruit Sarah Connor.
Fisker has given us another glimpse of the 600-mile range Ronin convertible EV and promised to unveil it in full on August 3rd. Like the original Fisker Karma, it’s a low and swoopy four-door “super GT” sedan that will join its Ocean SUV. There’s no word yet on price, but the company previously promised to keep it under $200,000. If that’s out of your price range, Fisker is working on its most affordable EV yet, the four-door Pear, which should start at $29,900 before any incentives.
“The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” and “Choose Irvine Welsh” are among the world premieres at the 2023 Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF), the full program for which was unveiled on Thursday.
As previously announced, “Silent Roar” and “Fremont” will bookend the festival, which includes 24 feature films, five retrospective titles, five short film programs and an outdoor screening weekend with seven features.
A hybrid adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s iconic novella “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” Hope Dickson Leach’s film transposes the action from London to Victorian Edinburgh. Ian Jefferies’ “Choose Irvine Welsh” is a documentary about the renowned “Trainspotting” author and features his admirers including Iggy Pop, Martin Compston, Danny Boyle, Bobbie Gillespie, Gail Porter, Rowetta and Andrew Macdonald.
Other world premieres include debutant Janice Pugh’s LGBTQIA+ romance “Chuck Chuck Baby,” starring Louise Brealey (“Sherlock”) and Annabel Scholey (“The Split”); and Rodger Griffiths’s Scottish thriller “Kill.” The program also includes several best of fest films including Berlin titles “Afire,” “Femme,” “Orlando, My Political Biography” and “Art College 1994,” Rotterdam selections “Joram” and “Superposition,” Sundance titles “Is There Anybody Out There?,” “Passages” and “Past Lives,” SXSW selection “Raging Grace,” Cannes title “Showing Up” and Tribeca selection “Your Fat Friend” amongst others.
American independent cinema is celebrated in a retrospective of four films made by rebellious filmmaking voices in the 1980s and 1990s, including Cauleen Smith’s “Drylongso,” Wayne Wang’s “Life is Cheap… But Toilet Paper is Expensive,” Fran Rubel Kuzui’s “Tokyo Pop” and Bette Gordon’s “Variety,” while Shane Meadows’ “Dead Man’s Shoes,” which had its world premiere at EIFF in 2004, is given a retrospective gala presentation.
EIFF also sees the launch of The Lynda Myles Project, including a discussion event on the living legacy of former festival director and “The Commitments” producer Myles’ contributions to film culture, and a work-in- progress preview of documentary “The Lynda Myles Project: A Manifesto.”
This year’s program has been brought together by a team of programmers led by Kate Taylor, program director of the festival, including feature film programmers Rafa Sales Ross and Anna Bogutskaya, and short film programmers Abigail Addison, Lydia Beilby and Holly Daniel. Alongside Taylor, the EIFF team is led by executive producer Tamara Van Strijthem and festival producer Emma Boa.
EIFF is supported by Screen Scotland, and enhanced engagement activities are supported by the Scottish government’s Festivals Expo Fund alongside the PLaCE Programme (a partnership between the Scottish government, City of Edinburgh Council and the Edinburgh Festivals).
“It came out when I was in 7th grade. I was DYING to see it! A movie about a teen pregnancy sounded interesting, and plus everyone said it was totally awesome! When I saw it, I wasn’t blown away by it but was glad to have finally seen what all the fuss was about. I rewatched it a few years ago and… wow. The man leaves his wife because he doesn’t want a baby. It’s the kind of thing with red flags you miss the first time you watch it, but notice the second time through. And he was grooming Juno. The movie just makes me sad.”
Labeling GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis “DeThirsty” on Wednesday’s episode of “All In,” MSNBC’s Chris Hayes spent some time mocking the DeSantis campaign’s most recent ad, which he argued likely feels kind of pathetic to anyone who watches it, even if they agree with it.
“Even those folks and the people he’s trying to appeal to,” Hayes said, “will find his campaign’s latest video to be as desperate and thirsty as the rest of us do.”
Watch the clip below now.
.@chrislhayes on DeSantis: “I think he thinks he can gain some traction in the darkest, most anti-social corners of the internet where cruelty is a virtue. But I think even those folks … will find his campaign’s latest video to be as desperate and thirsty as the rest of us do.” pic.twitter.com/HzH3SUkdNp
— All In with Chris Hayes (@allinwithchris) July 6, 2023
Under discussion was an ad DeSantis’ team released June 30 that was timed, unmistakably, as homophobic mockery of Pride month. It starts with several clips of Donald Trump expressing support for LGBTQ people, then transitions to clips and stills of the criticism DeSantis’ own anti-LGBTQ policies have provoked.
It also includes snippets of movies scenes –Christian Bale in “American Psycho,” Brad Pitt as Achilles in “Troy,” Cillian Murphy in “Peaky Blinders” and Leonardo DiCaprio in “The Wolf of Wall Street” — and stills of shirtless, muscular, oiled-up men. All paired to extremely distracting dance music and visuals. The New Republic described it as possibly “the weirdest ad in American history,” an assessment that’s hard to disagree with. Read more here.
Hayes brought that ad up in the context of DeSantis’ (so far) failing attempt to become the 2024 GOP front runner. “A big part of the reason I would submit that he has failed to gain any traction is he has chosen, whether he realizes it or not, to run this weird, alienating hard right campaign,” Hayes said. “Like a ‘Ron DeSantis doesn’t care who he offends,’ kind of thing.”
“I understand the logic here, because it really is the case that there’s an appetite for that kind of thing in the Republican base. And he thinks,” Hayes continued, “he can gain some traction in the darkest, most antisocial corners of the internet, where cruelty is a virtue. But I think even those folks, and the people he’s trying to appeal to, will find his campaign’s latest video to be as desperate and thirsty as the rest of us do.”
Hayes then played the entire ad.
“All right, there’s a lot to say here,” Hayes said, chuckling after it ended. “First, let me just say I understand, I, and probably you, are not the target audience for that video. Which again, fine. But everything about it is just so strange, and so entirely alienating.”
“I mean, yes, it’s bait for folks like me, right? ‘Oh, the liberals,’ including me in that video, ‘they don’t like Ron DeSantis, therefore, you should like him.’ But again,” Hayes said, “that’s lost underneath the crushing weight of the sheer effort of the Uber online Twitter nerds who came up with this, who cannot or will not understand how to act and interact with other people like a normal person.”
“In fact, I would go so far to say the most people are not even a target audience in this video. I mean, even most Republicans are not the target audience for this video. When you’re trying to compare yourself favorably to the serial killer from ‘American Psycho,’ you may have lost the thread a bit,” Hayes continued.
Hayes described this as the natural consequence of who DeSantis has hired for his campaign, which includes among other people someone who has publicly praised a holocaust denier. “Well, maybe this is the kind of campaign you end up running. So you’ve got a disgusting, you know, whatever homophobic offensive video released on the last day of Pride Month, because again, this is all overly determined, right? They’re trying to incite a backlash.”
“”I get that this video exists again, for that purpose. Like, we all see what you’re doing. There’s nothing subtle here. But again, even on its own terms, I think you missed the mark,” Hayes added. “My strong instinct is that even to the base, this comes across like Jeb’s (Bush), infamous ‘please clap’ moment.”
Hayes noted the recent polling that has Trump ahead of DeSantis overwhelmingly among likely primary voters, something even a guy who runs a DeSantis PAC admits.
“As long as Trump is in the race, and as long as the race centers on Trump’s worldview, DeSantis won’t be able to pass him. Again, I’m an outsider looking in here and I will be the first to admit that, and I will be the first to admit that you don’t necessarily go to Chris Hayes for, like, the most obvious insight into the thinking of the median Republican primary voter,” Hayes said.
“But, again, my two cents, if you want to beat Donald Trump in the Republican primary, here’s what I think is obvious: You need to kind of comfort his voters and keep them in your fold. Right? You cannot be seen as anti-Trump. I totally get that that’s true,” Hayes added.
“But then you got to convince them you’re a better and more electable alternative, and then add them to the people who were not that interested in voting for Trump again in the primary. That’s how you add up the coalition big enough to win. You’re not going to get there by trying to convince the biggest dorks on the internet that you are even more of a callous psychopath than he is,” Hayes concluded
Illustration by What’s on Netflix – Pictures: Netflix
Netflix’s gaming efforts continuously ramp up as it hosts over 60 mobile games following its launch in November 2021, but what’s coming next? Here are all the upcoming games coming soon to Netflix in 2023 & beyond.
In March 2023, Netflix stated that they had “40 more [games] slated for later this year and 70 in development with our partners,” adding that it’s in addition to the 16 games being developed internally at their in-house game studios.
Before we dive in, we want to give a quick shoutout to the YouTube Channel Netflix Gamer, which has given us numerous tips on upcoming Netflix Games for a while now and is an excellent source of information on Netflix Games.
Note: This is an ongoing live preview, so keep it bookmarked, as we’ll keep it updated over time.
Mobile Games Coming Soon to Netflix
Oxenfree II: Lost Signals
Coming to Netflix Games: July 12th, 2023
From Netflix’s internal studio Night School Studio, Oxenfree II is the second entry in the adventure game series.
Set five years after the first game’s events; you’ll follow Riley returning to her hometown to investigate more mysterious radio signals.
The game will also release on PlayStation platforms, Nintendo Switch and Steam.
Sonic Prime Dash
Coming to Netflix Games: July 13th, 2023
Picture: SEGA
First released over a decade ago, the original Sonic Dash game has been downloaded across 100s of millions of devices. It’s not set to get a refresh and update released alongside Sonic Prime season 2.
The Queen’s Gambit Chess
Coming to Netflix Games: July 25th, 2023
Picture: Netflix Games
Any guesses as to what sort of game this will be? If you guessed soccer, go get your head checked.
It’s chess, of course, with many of the faces you saw in the TV series making an appearance. We’ve known about The Queen’s Gambit getting the video game treatment for quite some time, as we reported earlier in 2022.
Here’s how Netflix describes the game:
“Take some lessons, play puzzles and matches or compete against friends in this stunning love letter to the show. From players new to the game to chess masters, this immersive experience that pays homage to the award-winning drama has something for everyone.”
Cut the Rope Daily
Coming to Netflix Games: August 1st, 2023
Picture: ZeptoLab
A respin of the classic mobile game that first debuted in 2010 and recently got a remaster in 2021.
Described as a “new twist” on the format, this game will have you solving new puzzles every day that sees you, as the title might suggest, cutting a rope.
WrestleQuest
Coming to Netflix: August 8th, 2023
Picture: Skybound Games
From Skybound Games and Mega Cat Studios, we’ll see the simultaneous release of WrestleQuest on Netflix Games and consoles and PC.
Here’s what you can expect:
“In WrestleQuest, players assume the role of a young wrestling hopeful, on their quest to become one of the all-time greats by powerbombing, slamming, and suplexing their way to the top.”
Storyteller
Coming to Netflix Games: September 26th, 2023
Already released on select consoles, this game comes from Annapurna Interactive.
Here’s what you can expect:
“Experience some of history’s greatest stories like never before. Storyteller is an award-winning reactive puzzle game that lets you build the story.
Storyteller’s charming animations and comic-panel design allows for a unique puzzle mechanic. Use your wits to retell iconic tales — or experiment and find something new.
Play with a library full of characters and themes, featuring heroes and villains, dragons and vampires, infidelity and remorse, love, lies, madness, and more! Use the blank canvas to manipulate secrets and desires, slay monsters or terrorize people with them, betray lovers or bring them together. You know how the stories go — but this time you are the author.”
Paper Trail
Coming to Netflix Games: Q1 2024
Coming from Newfangled Games is Paper Trail, a “top-down puzzle adventure about leaving home, set in a paper world. You must fold and tear your way through a diverse, populated paper world. As you progress, new gameplay opportunities emerge, enhanced by the folding mechanics. Drag objects, shine lights, and push boulders across the paths you create through folding.”
The game is headed to all platforms but will also hit Netflix Games.
Monument Valley 1 & 2
Coming to Netflix Games: 2024 TBD
Picture: Ustwo Games
Developed by Ustwo Games, Monument Valley is a popular indie puzzle game first released in 2014 on iOS and Android, with the sequel released in 2017.
The games task you with navigating through mazes with optical illusions and plenty of game mechanics to keep you scratching your head.
A third Monument Valley game is also confirmed to be in development and likely headed to Netflix Games at some point.
Untitled Assassin’s Creed Game
Alongside the news that Netflix is developing a live-action series based on its Assassin’s Creed property, Ubisoft announced at Forward that they’re also working on a new mobile experience.
Per their press release, “For players on the go, Assassin’s Creed Codename Jade will be a AAA RPG action-adventure mobile game set in ancient China.”
Compass Point West
First released on app stores all the way back in 2015, Netflix at Tudum 2022 announced that it’ll be refreshed and headed to Netflix Games shortly. It comes to Netflix via their acquisition of NextGames.
Here’s the official description of the game:
“Claim territory in the Wild West and defeat the evil domination plans of Orville Driller and his henchmen. Compass Point: West is a smokin’ hot and totally FREE new strategy action game!
Build and run your own Wild West town and use your tough town Sheriff and his trusty sidekicks to protect it – don’t let Driller and his henchmen get their filthy hands on the black gold beneath your land!
Explore the open frontier as you free other towns from the corrupt outlaws of Mr. O. Driller’s evil oil conglomerate!”
Cozy Grove 2
Picture: Spry Games
Netflix’s internal game studio Spry Games, is gearing up for a sequel to their hit game, Cozy Grove.
Dumb Ways to Survive
Playside Studios will be bringing a new game based on the viral advertising campaign to Netflix in the near future that’s already been adapted into multiple games such as Dumb Ways to Die and Dumb Ways to Draw.
La Casa De Papel: The Game
It’s been a while since Money Heist wrapped up on Netflix with its final season, but Netflix, as you’re no doubt aware, isn’t done with the franchise. A Korean spin-off has already been released and a Berlin spin-off is in the works, but now we’ve got word we’ll also see a video game adaptation.
The Colombian video game development studio, KillaSoft, is developing the game.
Here’s how Netflix describes the new game:
“When an old friend of the Professor’s comes calling to cash-in a favor, the La Casa de Papel crew is pulled into a heist to rob a shady billionaire’s casino in Monaco”
LEGO Legacy: Heroes Unboxed
Netflix and LEGO have teamed up for plenty of TV series and specials over the years and next on the docket is a new mobile game with LEGO: Legacy Heroes Unboxed getting ported to Netflix Games.
Per the official announcement for the game coming to Netflix, here’s what you can expect:
“Get ready to explore beloved locations with your favorite heroes, who are once again breaking out of the box to embark on epic adventures and dangerous quests. Also, be ready to start the journey in good company with a hefty newcomer’s gift at launch that will reveal the Shanty Legend!”
Samurai Shodown
Accidentally announced in June 2023 (a trailer was uploaded and swiftly taken down) we’re expecting the Switch port of the fighting game to come to Netflix Games. Samurai Shodown is the long-running game series from SNK that began in the early 1990s.
Shadow And Bone: Destinies
Coming to Netflix Games: 2023
Following the Shadow and Bone season 2 news from day 1 of Geeked Week, where we got the news that the second season had wrapped filming, Netflix unveiled that the series will also be getting a video game.
Here’s what you can expect:
“Play as your favorite characters and journey across the world of the Grishaverse in a narrative adventure to fulfill their destinies. Along the way, you’ll need to make decisions that will determine the course of your journey.”
Too Hot to Handle Game Sequel
Coming to Netflix Games: 2023
Picture: Netflix Games
Following the release of the first Too Hot to Handle game in 2022, Netflix is partnering with Nanobit again to release a new game based on the reality series in 2023.
Untitled Super Evil Megacorp Game
Super Evil Megacorp, the studio behind Catalyst Black and Vainglory, is working with Netflix to develop a new IP pitched as a ‘transmedia’ franchise that will see an exclusive game released based on an upcoming Netflix release.
Vikings: Valhalla
Vikings: Valhalla – Picture: Netflix / Tilting Point Games
Confirmed for 2023 is a mobile strategy game to go alongside the Netflix Original series Vikings: Valhalla.
Per a press release from TiltingPoint Games:
“In the new strategy game Vikings: Valhalla, players will take their place as leaders of fierce Viking clans and build formidable settlements. As their following grows, they will wage war and expand their influence across the continent. It will take strength, cunning and ingenuity to claim a stake through the ever-changing balance of power.”
Molehew’s Mining Adventure
Unannounced gaming title, but the copyright was registered in late March 2023.
What games are you most looking forward to playing on Netflix? Let us know in the comments down below.
From Scar’s telling us to be prepared to the poor unfortunate souls of Ursula, Disney movie villains have played vital roles in simultaneously frightening viewers and becoming fan favorites over the decades.
In honor of Walt Disney Co.’s 100th birthday later this year, Variety ranks the animation powerhouse’s 10 best movie villains of all time.
The talented animators that have passed through the studio’s halls have created countless characters that transcend the boundaries of conventional archetypes: Not only the whimsical roster of heroes that touch the hearts and imaginations of audiences globally but also the pure evil and sinister villains who have left indelible marks on audiences.
For generations Disney has tapped into the moral complexities of human nature, often challenging the viewer to question their own beliefs that can often live in the gray area between the existence of good and evil. We’ve seen it in redemption arcs explored such as Gaston in “Beauty and the Beast” (1991) or the Evil Queen in “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves” (1937), providing false hope to the audience that they can transform themselves but ultimately showing their evil is immutable.
Some of the most memorable villains have endured in pop culture, with icons like Cruella de Vil from “101 Dalmatians” and Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty” inspiring live adaptation adaptations, re-imaginings and spin-offs. There’s also a sea change in diversity seen with characters like Mother Gothel from “Tangled” or Dr. Facilier from “The Princess and the Frog,” which provided a refreshing departure from the Eurocentric villains of the past.
Read Variety’s list of the best Disney villains below.
Honorable mentions: Evil Queen (“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”), Shere Khan (“The Jungle Book”), Syndrome (“The Incredibles”)
In advance of Walt Disney Co.’s 100th anniversary on Oct. 16, Variety is taking a look at its rich creative legacy. For 10 weeks beginning July 5, Variety will publish a new “best of” list honoring the powerhouse company’s many accomplishments. With a long-lasting legacy of bringing joy to people globally, the cultural impact of Disney may be impossible to measure, but we’ll surely try with each new entry.
Jafar – Aladdin
The sorcerer wants it all, and with a fire-spitting staff in hand, he’ll do whatever he needs to get it.
In “Aladdin,” Robin Williams owns the genie front-to-back, but Jonathan Freeman’s portrayal of the droopy-faced Jafar is nothing short of outstanding.”
His exaggerated intonations on particular lines, such as “You’d be surprised what you can live through,” offers the base for a backstory worth exploring.
And who can forget all the iconic memes of “hot Daddy Jafar” that littered the internet when viewers feasted their eyes on the Dutch actor Marwan Kenzari in Guy Ritchie’s live-action adaptation? That’s always worth the price of admission.
Captain Hook – Peter Pan
The enduring Captain Hook from Disney’s “Peter Pan,” voiced by Hans Conried, is the pirate of all pirates in film history (for me, anyway).
With brilliant comedic timing and a natural blend of sophistication and dim-witted catchphrases (“Smee, my dear Smee”), Hook has been done and re-done countless times in the live-action realm, but the animated impression will always remain paramount.
Humans – Bambi
It’s the evil that lives within us all.
The unseen “man” in the 1942 heartbreaking classic “Bambi” likely started the inner complex within us all that at some point, very soon, we were all going to lose our mothers in the most heinous ways.
When the young Bambi is frantically looking for his mother Faline, following a harrowing gunshot, his Great Prince of the Forest father sure doesn’t evoke any empathy with his coldly delivered “you’re mother can’t be with you anymore.”
Humans are terrible. Men could be worse.
Lady Tremaine – Cinderella
What a bad Mommy she is. So bad that not many even remember her name outside of “wicked stepmother.”
In “Cinderella,” Lady Tremaine, voiced by Eleanor Audley, exudes sophistication. However, the cruelty and hatred for her stepdaughter, who has lost her parents, is vividly pronounced.
Even how she calls her to her room or drops the memorable one-word “if” regarding her going to the ball is icy and fascinating.
Where’s her origin story or post-event spin-off as the black widow?
Yzma – The Emperor’s New Groove
Anything Eartha Kitt touched in this life is gold. The eccentric Yzma from the underrated “The Emperor’s New Groove” is among them.
A voice performance worthy of an Oscar nom, the captivating and unforgettable creation of the scene-stealing ex-employee is too amazing not to adore.
Her sly deliveries, sultry voice and brilliant potion creations at among the most quotable in the Disney roster. “Pull the lever, Kronk!” is a line that is often repeated randomly around my home.
Gaston – Beauty and the Beast
He’s conceited. He’s got a reason.
In “Beauty and the Beast,” the first animated film nominated for best picture, Gaston has good looks and big muscles that have women fawning over him, but he wants more. Much more.
Brought to life with wicked pizzazz by Richard White, the blend of arrogance and narcissism is perfectly executed when amplifying the same qualities that got the Beast into the pickle he finds himself in.
Let’s not forget the sinister “Mob Song,” where the core of his villainy is etched into viewers’ minds before succumbing to a very long mountain drop.
Cruella de Vil – 101 Dalmatians
Image Credit: Disney
The lady kills dogs. That should automatically place her No. 1 on this list; however, we must consider a few other factors when ranking these bad people.
The “101 Dalmatians” antagonist, voiced beautifully by legend Betty Lou Gerson, is unabashed with her cruelty to animals. Still, the excessive ostentation comes with a distinguishing black-and-white fashion that brings her to the right border of “fun.”
While despicable, the villain’s tale spurred a spin-off live-action version, where Emma Stone stepped into the shoes of the complex woman with a tragic backstory.
Cruella’s twisted desires are always on display.
Ursula – The Little Mermaid
Image Credit: Disney
The dastardly octopus/sea witch is a remarkable presence in the 1989 classic “The Little Mermaid,” with an iconic performance from Pat Carroll.
A larger-than-life personality, her flamboyance, desire for power, and thirst for revenge are quite the match for young mermaid Ariel, who seeks the love of a human.
In the echo chamber of iconic villain songs, “Poor Unfortunate Souls” ranks high with its seductive charm and theatrical display that laid the foundation for Melissa McCarthy to deliver a faithful rendition in the live-action remake of 2023.
Scar – The Lion King
Image Credit: Disney
Scar can’t wait to be king, and he’ll do anything to get it, even kill his brother and nephew.
The manipulation and cunning tactics of the “third-in-line” to the throne are expertly brought to life thanks to the team of animators and expert musicians that give him a quintessential bad guy number (“Be Prepared”) and, of course, the voice talent of Oscar winner Jeremy Irons.
And while he may be “surrounded by idiots,” his charisma and power for hunger are best shown through his unflinching murder of Mufasa at the stampede and his relentless disdain for young Simba.
Maleficent – Sleeping Beauty
Image Credit: Walt Disney Pictures
A powerful presence, aside from her iconic design of sorcery and fashionable headpieces, the “Sleeping Beauty” villain, voiced by Eleanor Audley, is the essence of cruelty and evil.
The way she takes delight in imposing curses and pain onto others with a dramatic cackle makes the children’s movie feel like the closest Disney ever came to making an animated horror movie (that floating green light).
And let’s not forget the simple fact she turns into a badass dragon. I know we’re supposed to root for Princess Aurora and Prince Philip’s love, but is it too wicked to share we wanted her to live on?
Coco Lee, a Chinese American singer and songwriter best known for performing an Oscar-nominated song in the film “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” died in a hospital in Hong Kong on Wednesday. She was 48.
The cause was suicide, according to a statement from her sisters, Carol and Nancy Lee. Ms. Lee was taken to a hospital on Sunday after she attempted suicide at her home, they said.
“Coco had been suffering from depression for a few years but her condition deteriorated drastically over the last few months,” her sisters wrote. “Although Coco sought professional help and did her best to fight depression, sadly that demon inside of her took the better of her.”
Ms. Lee had built a successful career as a pop singer in Asia, but she was best known to American audiences for singing the song “A Love Before Time” in the 2000 film “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” The song was nominated for an Oscar in the best new original song category, and she performed it in front of a television audience of millions at the Academy Awards ceremony in March 2001.
“Combining the flavor and texture of Eastern music with the orchestral color and sensitive lyrics of Western culture, the magic of this stunningly beautiful film is truly realized in this evocative love ballad,” the actress Julia Stiles said as she introduced Ms. Lee’s performance.
Her career as a recording artist began after she finished as the runner-up in a singing competition hosted by the television broadcaster TVB in Hong Kong in 1993, shortly after she graduated from high school. Ms. Lee entered the competition on a whim, she told The San Francisco Chronicle in 2000, and stumbled upon success.
“I was timid as a kid,” she said. “I would hide in the bathroom and sing in the shower. I always predicted my older sister Nancy would be the singer. She’s beautiful, talented and she’s got nice legs. I had no idea it would be me.”
But being selected as runner-up in the TVB contest led to the release of her debut album with a Taiwanese record label in 1994. “My goal in the singing business is not to stay in one place,” she told a reporter for The South China Morning Post in 1997, saying that she wanted to work in Asia and the U.S.
In 1999, Ms. Lee released her first full English language album, “Just No Other Way,” which featured pop and R&B songs. One track, “Before I Fall In Love,” was included on the soundtrack for the Julia Roberts film “Runaway Bride.”
Ms. Lee’s career also expanded beyond music. She voiced the lead character in the Mandarin version of Disney’s 1998 animated film “Mulan,” in addition to singing the movie’s theme song, “Reflection.”
Ms. Lee, who was born on Jan. 17, 1975, in Hong Kong, moved to the United States and attended middle and high school in San Francisco, where she was crowned Miss Teen Chinatown in 1991. She briefly attended the University of California at Irvine, intending to study biology and become a doctor, but dropped out after her freshman year, she told The Chronicle.
In their statement, Ms. Lee’s sisters noted that this year marked the 30th anniversary of the launch of her accomplished singing career. Ms. Lee was “known to have worked tirelessly to open up a new world for Chinese singers in the international music scene,” they wrote, highlighting her “excellent live performances.”
In addition to her sisters, Ms. Lee’s survivors include her husband, Bruce Rockowitz, and two stepdaughters. A complete list was not immediately available.
Her last single, called “Tragic,” was released in February. In a post to her social media at the end of 2022, Ms. Lee acknowledged having had an “incredibly difficult year” but encouraged her followers to spread positivity and “be an influential figure to inspire people.”
If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.
With an opening red scrawl that reads: “The following is based on true events… that actually didn’t happen!” you know what kind of movie you’re in for with The Blackening. The latest entry from the ‘storied’ career of Tim Story (see what I did there?), The Blackening is the funniest stalker film I’ve seen this year.
It’s more than that, of course. You can’t simply have a creepy stalker film anymore. In The Blackening, 8 friends have been invited for a 10-year post-college reunion at a cabin in the woods. Eight friends spending the Juneteenth weekend at a cabin in the woods. Anybody with even passing familiarity with horror tropes can see that something absolutely ghastly is about to occur. There is no way they are getting out of that cabin unscathed.
To that end, the ghastly event is discovered within the Game Room, a copy of a terrible, racist, Jim Crow-era game titled The Blackening. Part Candyland, part Trivial Pursuit for Black people. This game is moderated by a toy version of Sambo. This creepy Sambo face, perched within the game board, sets a two-minute timer every time a question, or even a challenge, is issued. If the participants fail to answer the question correctly or they let time run out, somebody dies. The slashing monsters, in this case, seem to be these two rednecks in Sambo leather daddy masks; at least, that’s the most accurate depiction I can make of their face coverings.
Yvonne Orji as Morgan and Jay Pharaoh as Shawn in The Blackening. Photo Credit: Glen Wilson
“…discovered within the Game Room, a copy of a terrible, racist, Jim Crow-era game titled The Blackening.”
The Blackening is not Tim Story’s first rodeo. This man directed the first two Fantastic Four movies in the early 00s. He has done a great many films concerning Black America since then. I would argue The Blackening is undoubtedly the most fun film Mr. Story has ever directed. This is a gloriously demented thrill ride that takes you through every nook, cranny, and swimming hole within crossbow distance of the aforementioned cabin.
The ensemble cast for this one is a bunch of great up-and-comers. Of the eight celebrants, the standout performances come from Clifton (Jermaine Fowler), Dewayne (Dewayne Perkins), and Alison (Grace Byers). Byers mixed-race character is an absolute hoot. Every time she mentions her White dad is an opportunity for a dark giggle. Clifton, the black man from Vermont, is the fish out of water. I enjoy his anal retentiveness as well as his devotion to his Android. As a man who solely uses an Android, I completely agree with Fowler’s Clifton that the Android is the superior mobile device. Perkins’ Dewayne is a beautiful blend of introverted and chemically induced party boy. I loved his portrayal of Dewayne coming out of his shell with the aid of a little Molly.
While it will not win many (if any) awards, The Blackening is hands down the best time that has been offered up in a movie theater since the Dungeons and Dragons movie last March. This horror comedy plays with genre conventions in a sparkling and vividly delightful way. I was entirely captivated by the action from beginning to end. If you’re looking for a good popcorn and soda pop film, The Blackening is for you.
Vladimir Putin has humiliated Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin after his failed uprising in Russia by sending security services to raid his St Petersburg palace.
Pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia published photos and video yesterday of armed officers searching Prigozhin‘s mansion while he was exiled in Belarus on June 24.
The investigators discovered huge caches of assault weapons and ammunition, stashes of gold bars, a stuffed alligator and a framed photo which is purported to show the severed heads of the exiled private military leader’s enemies.
Images of the raid also include a large closet containing many different wigs of varying styles and colours, from grey to mousy brown.
Photos purporting to show Prigozhin wearing the wigs as part of various disguises were leaked to state-backed Russian Telegram channels.
The quality of some disguises is laughable, leading to speculation that they may have been doctored in an attempt to further discredit the Wagner chief.
But Prigozhin’s supporters declared the leaking of the images may flout Russia’s strict national security laws, suggesting the oligarch was acting as a state agent, given Wagner’s ties to Russia’s military intelligence service, the GRU.
It comes after the warlord launched what appeared to be an armed insurrection against Putin less than two weeks ago – which was soon halted after Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko helped to broker a deal to end the conflict.
Lukashenko claimed today that Prigozhin had returned to St Petersburg – although the location of the Wagner chief is not officially known. Many of his fighters have set up camps in Belarus.
Yevgeny Prigozhin, who has been humiliated by Vladimir Putin for his failed uprising in Russia
During a raid on Prigozhin’s St Petersburg palace, Russian security services are said to have found a stuffed alligator displayed on a table
A framed photo which is purported to show the severed heads of exiled private military leader Prigozhin’s enemies
A huge caches of weapons, including assault rifles and ammunition, was found by security services inside the Wagner founder’s home
Images from the raid released by Russia show a grand piano at the foot of a sweeping staircase
Police uncovered closet containing many different wigs of varying styles and colours
A photograph published in Izvestia shows a spa and sauna room, lit by a chandelier
It is claimed that billionaire Prigozhin wore the disguises in Africa and the Middle East as he furthered Putin’s interests and deployed Wagner forces.
Although the Wagner Group officially operates as a private company, several individuals who helped to found it are tied to the GRU.
One disguise shows Prigozhin as an employee of the ministry of defence in Sudan, while in another he is disguised as an assistant diplomat from Abu Dhabi. Others show him posing as various military figures from Libya.
The Telegram channel Trinadtsatiy said: ‘The backbone of Wagner is made up of people from the GRU, and they are not stupid.
‘Such [disguises] are needed to work in neighbouring countries, and in fact they are operational information.’
Ukrainian official Anton Gerashchenko said: ‘These are not shots from a casting for a role in a cheap comedy, but a selfie of Prigozhin.
‘The pictures were published by the Russian security forces.
‘In most of the pictures, yesterday’s ”Hero of Russia” is in Libyan uniform with Libyan epaulettes and elements of conspiracy.’
He said the purpose of the leak seemed to be to discredit Prigozhin, ‘who destroyed objectionable people with a sledgehammer, approved of torture and violence at the front, but failed with his Moscow trip’ during the armed revolt aimed at toppling Putin’s defence minister Sergei Shoigu.
Photos purporting to show Prigozhin wearing the wigs as part of various disguises were leaked to state-backed Russian Telegram channels
Prigozhin’s backers say he was likely working as a state agent and that the leaking of these images flouts Russia’s security laws
Prigozhin is purportedly seen wearing various disguises in these images leaked to Telegram
A giant sledgehammer with the inscription ‘For use in important negotiations’ was photographed on display near a snooker table in a reception room of the mansion.
A large number of boxes containing Russian bank notes worth around £86million (10billion rubles) were also seized in raids on Prigozhin’s estate, which includes his office building.
Russian media reports that the money and equipment have since been returned to the office and the Wagner Centre.
Among the private military leader’s valuable possessions photographed in his luxurious palace home was a Russian military uniform decorated with around two dozen medals.
Also on display in his lavish home was what appears to be a stuffed alligator on a table.
Several passports were found and photographed.
Video shows officers armed with assault rifles searching through his home and offices.
Photos also revealed the luxury Prigozhin lived in, revealing his private swimming pool, helipad, sauna, gym and a medical office.
The house also appears to have its own private prayer room, full of religious imagery.
Russian security services raiding the estate and offices of exiled Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin
Huge caches of weapons found at the Wagner leader’s estate by police
Gold bars were among the riches found by police in Prigozhin’s mansion
A giant sledgehammer with the inscription ‘For use in important negotiations’ was photographed on display near a snooker table in a reception room of the mansion
Prigozhin’s private swimming pool in his St Petersburg palace, complete with a tiny slide
An opulent reception area of Prigozhin’s home, which was captured on video by Russian police
The house also appears to have its own private prayer room, full of religious imagery
A luxurious living area in the mansion, complete with a huge cinematic TV on the left
Among the private military leader’s valuable possessions photographed in his palace was a Russian military uniform decorated with around two dozen medals
Huge amounts of cash in various currencies was found in Prigozhin’s offices, reported to be worth around £86million (10billion rubles)
Several passports were also found and photographed inside Prigozhin’s home.
‘Our march of justice was aimed at fighting traitors and mobilising society,’ Prigozhin said in a short audio message posted to the Wagner-affiliated Greyzone Telegram channel on Tuesday.
‘And I think that we succeeded in much of this. In the near future, I am sure that you will see our next victories at the front.’
Prigozhin gave no clue to his whereabouts, and the fact that the clip is an audio recording marks a change from the video messages he made to address his forces prior to their failed mutiny attempt on June 24.
Since the failed insurrection, Prigozhin – a once popular figure among Russians – has faced a wave of criticism.
Russian state media, which once hailed him and his fighters for their brutal, hard-line campaign in Ukraine, has attacked him for his perceived betrayal of President Putin and has ceased broadcasting news about Wagner and Prigozhin’s predicament.
Yevgeny Prigozhin (left) assists Vladimir Putin (centre) during a dinner with foreign scholars and journalists at the restaurant Cheval Blanc on the premises of an equestrian complex outside Moscow in November 2011
These are the first pictures to have emerged of the Wagner mercenary army’s new base in Russia’s autocratic neighbour Belarus. Giant tents have been set up as barracks for the armed force that marched against Putin’s regime
The Venice Film Festival will open with the world premiere of Luca Guadagnino’s latest pic Challengers.
The film will be screened Out of Competition on Wednesday, August 30, in the Sala Grande at the Palazzo del Cinema (Lido di Venezia), on the opening night of the 80th Venice Film Festival.
The pic stars Zendaya as Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach and a force of nature, who makes no apologies for her game on and off the court. Married to a champion on a losing streak (Mike Faist – West Side Story), Tashi’s strategy for her husband’s redemption takes a surprising turn when he must face off against the washed-up Patrick (Josh O’Connor) – his former best friend and Tashi’s former boyfriend. As their pasts and presents collide, and tensions run high, Tashi must ask herself, what will it cost to win?
“I am so thrilled for audiences to experience my new film Challengers at the Venice Film Festival. It’s a modern bold story of youthful energy, love and power. Zendaya, Josh and Mike are totally original and fresh, bringing a new energy like you’ve never seen before,” Guadagnino said. “I can’t wait for the Lido audience to dance across the notes of the soundtrack of Trent and Atticus at the opening night of the 80th edition of the Mostra. As a filmmaker, it is a dream come true and I am grateful to Alberto and the whole Venice family for this wonderful recognition for the film.”
Guadagnino was on the Lido last year, where he debuted Bones and All, starring Timothee Chalamet and Taylor Russell. He picked up the fest’s Best Director gong for his work on the pic. The director, best known for his 2017 breakout Call Me By Your Name, has often returned to the Lido, debuting pics including The Protagonists (1999), Io sono l’amore (2009), Bertolucci on Bertolucci (2013), A Bigger Splash (2015), Suspiria (2018), and Salvatore: The Shoemaker of Dreams (2020).
Challengers is written by Justin Kuritzkes and produced by Amy Pascal, Luca Guadagnino, Zendaya, and Rachel O’Connor. Executive Producers are Bernard Bellew, Lorenzo Mieli, and Kevin Ulrich. Music is by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. The film will be distributed in the US by MGM, and internationally via Warner Bros.
As previously announced, Damien Chazelle will be the international jury president for the main competition. The festival runs Aug 30 — Sep 9.
The discussion of a recent federal court ruling on Fox News’ “The Five” was derailed briefly on Wednesday, after co-host Jeanine Pirro kicked off a hard-to-follow, and very off topic argument about the political allegiances of former FBI Director James Comey.
This culminated in co-host Jessica Tarlov telling a very angry Pirro that Comey “is responsible for Hillary Clinton losing the election.”
And before you ask, no, we really can’t figure out how the conversation even got there. Maybe you can. Watch the clip below (courtesy of @ACYN on Twitter):
Jeanine: I need to make Biden the bad guy
Jessica: Why? He wasn’t in office
Jeanine: It was Jim Comey. Are you telling me Jim Comey was on Donald Trump side?
Under discussion was preliminary injunction granted July 4 by a Trump-appointed Louisiana federal judge. The ruling, essentially, validates claims by right wing activists that content moderation policies on social media sites mainly serve to censor conservatives on behalf of the government. If the ruling is upheld, the Biden administration (and presumably other presidents) would be forbidden from contacting social media companies regarding hate speech, disinformation and related issues.
While talking about it, Jones said he didn’t need to “make Biden the bad guy” over the issue, which is when Pirro weighed in.
“I need to make Biden the bad guy,” Pirro said. “It was Anthony Blinken, it was Jim Comey. You’re telling me Jim Comey was on Donald Trump’s side? He tried to set him up for this whole thing.”
To which Tarlov replied, “Jim Comey is almost single-handedly responsible for Hillary Clinton losing the election in 2016.”
Tarlov was likely referring to Comey’s decision, just 11 days before the 2016 election, to publicly inform Congress that the FBI had reopened the investigation into Clinton’s emails.
“You think so?” Pirro asked rhetorically. “The Americans found her to be the most untrustworthy candidate they’d ever seen.”
Of course, Comey has generally been coy about his political allegiances, aside from the fact he is a Republican. However, when he notified congress about the reopened Clinton investigation — which was subsequently re-closed and Clinton once again exonerated — he notably did not notify them that at that time the FBI had also been investigating the Trump campaign’s ties to Russia for nearly 4 months. The existence of that investigation only became known after Trump’s electoral college victory.
In the first four hours after it launched late Wednesday afternoon, 5 million people signed up for Meta’s new Twitter competitor, Threads, according to CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Threads is currently available on Apple and Google’s app stores in 100 countries, and several major brands like Netflix, NPR, HBO and Variety already have presences on the app, along with celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Usher and Jennifer Lopez. The platform does not have a browser presence as of yet — the domain threads.net only offers a QR code for users to download the mobile app.
The new platform, described as “Instagram’s text-based conversation app,” is a direct rival to Twitter, which has had a rough July so far. On Saturday, owner Elon Musk announced that accounts would be limited in the number of tweets they could view per day, prompting yet another user exodus to various alternatives, like Mastodon, Hive Post, Spill, and former Twitter head Jack Dorsey’s Bluesky Social.
Perhaps because of this, Meta released Threads on Apple’s app store a day early. It was originally expected to launch on Thursday.
Musk said Twitter’s viewing limitations would be temporary, and bumped the limit from 600 to 1,000 tweets per day for unverified users, shortly after announcing them on Saturday. Even still, some users were quick to jump ship, with competitors like Bluesky announcing it saw “record-high traffic” on Saturday.
Musk has yet to tweet about the Meta competitor.
In June, Meta’s chief product officer Chris Cox told staffers that Threads would be for those seeking a platform that is “sanely run,” and obvious shot at Musk’s managing of Twitter since his purchase of the social media giant in October, 2022.
Meanwhile, the limitation placed on viewed tweets isn’t fully understood. The company’s formal explanation claims it’s a move to combat “bots and other bad actors,” though hard evidence of these problems has not been made public. A purported epidemic of bot accounts was the justification Musk used in his unsuccessful attempt to back out of buying Twitter.
EXCLUSIVE: Edward Norton is to voice Lee Harvey Oswald in a True Spies podcast narrated by Daisy Ridley.
Old interviews and diary entries from JFK’s assassin have been put together to form Oscar nominee Norton’s script for the historical true crime show. Star Wars star Ridley is hosting the series titled The Oswald Project, following in the footsteps of previous hosts Hayley Atwell, Vanessa Kirby and Sophia DiMartino for the podcast’s fourth run.
The series is set to launch on July 18.
The Oswald Project tells the shocking story of the alleged assassin of President John F. Kennedy and Oswald’s relationship with the CIA. It will probe generations-long questions including whether Oswald was being trained by the CIA to become a KGB double-agent, or so he could take the fall for JFK’s murder, and whether he, as he claimed just before his own assassination, was “a patsy.”
Ridley said she has always been “fascinated by the mystery of JFK’s assassination and the character of Lee Harvey Oswald” so is “thrilled to kick off my run as the host of True Spies with this story.”
The podcast will drop later this month and subscribers to Spyscape+ will be able to see it sooner, on July 11. Spyscape Studios is producer and said episodes of previous seasons of True Spies have been downloaded more than 20 million times so far.
Ridley will soon be seen in noir thriller Magpie, which is based on a story she developed, while she is returning to the Star Wars franchise as Rey in one of the upcoming New Jedi Order movies directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and written by Steven Knight.
Double Oscar-nominee Norton could most recently be seen in Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City.
Not yet rated
Facebook
Twitter
Mastodon
Login or register for updates…
– English Audio Description
Facebook
Twitter
Mastodon
Login or register to get email updates…
