Directed by Christopher Nolan, the 2008 blockbuster went on to become a critical and commercial phenomenon, with Ledger earning a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Michael Caine Had an Unforgettable First Encounter With Heath Ledger’s Joker

Caine recalled that he had never met Ledger before filming the scene in which the Joker crashes Bruce Wayne’s penthouse fundraiser. When the actor walked into the room in character, the transformation was so convincing that it immediately caught everyone by surprise.

Reflecting on the experience, Caine later compared Ledger’s interpretation with Jack Nicholson’s iconic take on the villain in Tim Burton’s version. “Jack was like a clown figure, benign but wicked, maybe a killer old uncle. He could be funny and make you laugh.” Ledger, however, reinvented the character. “He’s gone in a completely different direction to Jack, he’s like a really scary psychopath.”

The veteran actor also praised the commitment Ledger brought to the role. “He’s a lovely guy and his Joker is going to be a hell of a revelation in this picture,” Caine said before the hit’s release.

Released in 2008, “The Dark Knight” follows Batman, Jim Gordon, and Harvey Dent as they join forces to dismantle Gotham City’s criminal underworld, only to face an unpredictable new threat in the Joker. Starring Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Morgan Freeman, the film became the highest-grossing release of its year and is widely regarded as one of the greatest superhero movies ever made.

Jim Parsons Says His Relationship With ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Has Changed Over Time

Looking back on the show’s peak years, Parsons admitted that professional success did not translate into personal fulfillment. “I look back now and realize that there were many ways, at some of the best moments of my life, I was miserable,” he said, before adding, “I was not happy. I was stressed.”

The actor also described feeling as though every achievement depended on maintaining an exhausting pace. “I felt that there was so many plates I was supposed to be keeping in the air and that the success and the good things of life that were happening were only due to this overworking… discipline and whatever.” Even now, Parsons said he cannot fully separate how much of that mindset was necessary from how much it consumed him.

Despite the show’s lasting popularity, Parsons made it clear he has no desire to revisit that chapter. Asked whether he would go through it again, his answer was unequivocal, saying he would not relive the experience “for any amount of money.” At the same time, he acknowledged that Sheldon Cooper remains an inseparable part of his career and public identity.

That perspective has gradually softened since the sitcom concluded in 2019. Parsons explained that he has been “changing my relationship to it,” adding, “It’s evolving, and it gets better all the time. What I feel is better, what I feel is healthier.” The hit, created by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, ran for 12 seasons and 279 episodes, becoming one of the defining network comedies of its era while earning Parsons four Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.

The reveal came during the “Call of Duty in Culture” panel at Fanatics Fest in New York City, where the upcoming “Modern Warfare 4” game was also being promoted.

Peter Berg Confirms the Movie Will Follow the ‘Modern Warfare’ Storyline

Berg’s announcement settles one of the biggest questions surrounding the adaptation. While the “Call of Duty” franchise has expanded across multiple timelines and settings since its debut in 2003, the film will specifically draw from the “Modern Warfare” games rather than the series’ World War II roots or the “Black Ops” saga.

The “Modern Warfare” sub-series first launched in 2007 and became a defining chapter for the franchise by shifting the action into contemporary military conflicts.

That decision also points toward the type of story audiences can expect on screen. The “Modern Warfare” games revolve around Captain John Price and the elite Task Force 141 unit as they confront global threats, including longtime antagonist Vladimir Makarov. The latest chapter in that storyline will continue this October with the release of “Modern Warfare 4,” which centers on a conflict between North and South Korea.

The project represents the latest attempt to bring one of gaming’s biggest properties to theaters after several earlier plans failed to materialize. Activision Blizzard first explored a “Call of Duty” cinematic universe nearly a decade ago, with different filmmakers attached over the years before those efforts stalled. Momentum returned in September 2025, when Paramount Pictures and Microsoft-owned Activision announced a new partnership to produce a live-action adaptation.

The current version of the picture pairs Berg behind the camera with “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan, who co-wrote the screenplay and is also producing. Paramount has scheduled the movie for release on June 30, 2028, making it the first feature film adaptation of a franchise that has sold more than 500 million copies worldwide and grown into one of the most successful video game series ever created.

ChristopherNolan’s adaptation, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, follows the Greek king’s perilous journey home after the Trojan War and has received widespread acclaim since its release.

Scholars Argue There Has Never Been a Single Correct Version of ‘The Odyssey’

Much of the online conversation has focused on the film’s production design, with some viewers questioning details such as the polished Trojan Horse or comparing Benny Safdie’s Agamemnon armor to a modern superhero suit rather than Bronze Age equipment.

Among the experts interviewed by Variety, those concerns were far less significant. Joel P. Christensen, editor of The Oxford Critical Guide to Homer’s Odyssey, summed up the reaction from many academics with a laugh: “Nobody cared. Even the head archaeologist didn’t care.” He added that Homer’s poem itself is “filled with anachronisms” because it combines different historical layers, making historical inconsistencies part of the tradition rather than a departure from it.

The conversation became more nuanced when it turned to Nolan’s adaptation of the text itself. Harvard classicist Gregory Nagy noted there is no single “original” version of “The Odyssey” in the modern sense because the poem developed through centuries of oral storytelling before it was written down.

That idea was echoed by Richard P. Martin, professor of Greek and Latin literature at Stanford, who described Homer’s work as “already historical fiction, reimagining an ancient past when it was first composed.” For Martin, Nolan’s blockbuster belongs to a long tradition of reinterpretations. “There is no ‘correct’ treatment, because every generation makes its own version of the poem, either by retranslation or revisualization in various media.” He concluded with a sentiment many classicists appear to share: “All publicity about Homer is good publicity.”

A Homer Expert Says the Conversation Around ‘The Odyssey’ Has Missed the Point

In the months before “The Odyssey” reached theaters, much of the online discussion focused on the casting of Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy and Elliot Page as the Greek soldier Sinon, with some critics questioning whether those choices fit the world traditionally associated with Homer’s poem. The film, which stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, adapts the legendary hero’s journey home following the Trojan War.

Joel P. Christensen, editor of The Oxford Critical Guide to Homer’s Odyssey, said he has been frustrated by the way that debate has unfolded. “I’m really disturbed that so much of the conversation has been about how ‘woke’ or progressive this film was going to be,” he said. Rather than agreeing with that criticism, Christensen argued that “it’s a very conservative film.”

He pointed to the way the adaptation handles its female characters, adding, “The roles for women are constrained.” Christensen also dismissed the idea that the movie’s casting makes it especially progressive, saying, “The interracial casting is women of color who just get to be married to white men, which is not progressive.”

The remarks stand in contrast to months of online debate that framed “The Odyssey “as a politically charged reinterpretation of the classic tale. Among scholars interviewed by Variety, however, the larger conversations have focused on Nolan’s creative decisions, his approach to adapting Homer, and the film’s place within a tradition that has been reimagined for centuries, rather than on the culture war arguments that have dominated social media.

Christopher Nolan Says ‘The Odyssey’ Took Everything He Had

After spending three years between “Oppenheimer” and “The Odyssey,” Nolan was asked whether moviegoers should expect a similar wait before his next film arrives. His answer was even more definitive. “Oh, at least,” he replied.

The director made it clear that bringing “The Odyssey” to the screen demanded an extraordinary effort from everyone involved. Recalling early conversations with star Matt Damon, Nolan remembered trying to prepare him for what lay ahead. “I have a feeling he didn’t really understand until we got on the boat,” he said, adding that the reality of filming only became clear while “hiking up a goat’s path to cyclops’ cave.” According to Nolan, that was when Damon realized “it was not going to be easy.”

Nolan admitted the ambitious production eventually tested everyone’s endurance, including his own. “I definitely hit the limits of my own stamina and everybody’s stamina, I think,” he said. “We’re not doing the job right making a film of The Odyssey if it doesn’t seem difficult.”

Released on July 17, the fantasy action adventure stars Damon as Odysseus alongside Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal and an ensemble cast. The picture follows the Greek king’s perilous voyage home after the Trojan War as he encounters mythical creatures, hostile forces and impossible trials in his quest to reunite with Penelope. It also became the first Hollywood feature filmed entirely with IMAX 70 mm cameras.

Wendy Williams Says Her Life Remains Highly Restricted

Williams described an existence defined by strict limitations. “I’ve by now rested my case. It’s $25,000 a month here,” she said before detailing the environment around her. “There’s grass, trees, two floors, no cars around. Can’t even do the elevator to go down. It, too, is locked.” She also noted changes to her daily routine, adding, “I once was a connoisseur of food and now sometimes I’ll just have meals in my room. And I don’t drink.”

The former television host also explained that her movements remain closely monitored. “And mine is a locked floor. And there’s also an in and out hospital,” Williams said. She added, “There’s always security with me,” before describing one of the few outings she regularly makes. “Look, I go to church every Sunday. It’s the Christian Cultural Center. 10 a.m. I go with a personal aide.”

Williams also reflected on how dramatically her life has changed since leaving daytime television. “Understand, I did a daily TV show 14 years,” she said. “This watching over me also deals with dresses. I was tall. Looking gorgeous. Now all my good stuff’s in storage.” She explained that retrieving those clothes is no simple task, adding, “I’m just not going to have some guy follow me into storage.” Instead, she said, “I’ve now turned skirts into shorts.”

She also spoke briefly about how she spends her time and the challenges she continues to face. “What I do is I keep things in my notebook. They say it’s dementia and aphasia,” Williams said. Her weekly routine, she explained, is relatively limited. “Best I can do is Monday and Friday I go to the gym.” Looking back on everything that has happened over the past few years, she concluded, “I don’t know exactly how, what, why but I have gone through a lot of s - - t.”

Williams remains under a court-appointed guardianship while continuing to challenge the arrangement in court. She has repeatedly maintained that she is mentally capable of making her own decisions, while her guardian has argued that the current level of care remains necessary following her diagnoses of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.

‘Severance’ Season 3 Finally Appears Ready to Begin Production

The reported production start comes more than a year after “Severance” wrapped its critically acclaimed second season, which ended with one of the series’ biggest cliffhangers to date. Apple has yet to reveal story details for the next part.

The update is particularly significant because the gap between the show’s first two seasons stretched to nearly three years. That lengthy delay was largely influenced by the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes, leaving many viewers concerned that another extended wait could be ahead. The reported start of production indicates that work on the next chapter is progressing toward the previously announced release window.

“Severance” became one of Apple TV+’s defining original series after its debut in 2022, earning widespread acclaim for its unsettling premise, visual style, and performances. Created by Dan Erickson and primarily directed by Ben Stiller, the workplace thriller follows employees at the mysterious Lumon Industries, where a surgical procedure divides their work memories from their personal lives, creating two separate versions of each employee.

The hit stars Adam Scott alongside Britt Lower, Zach Cherry, Tramell Tillman, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, Dichen Lachman, and Christopher Walken. Across its first two seasons, the title collected dozens of Emmy nominations and establishing itself as one of the platform’s most acclaimed original dramas.

Jon Bernthal Says Lupita Nyong’o Brought Everything Helen of Troy Required

Bernthal, who plays Menelaus in Nolan’s adaptation, spoke warmly about sharing the screen with Nyong’o, whose Helen of Troy sits at the center of the legendary conflict that launches the story. Rather than focusing only on the character’s legendary beauty, he pointed to the qualities he believes the Oscar winner brings as a performer.

“For me, there’s no one else in the world who could have done that,” Bernthal said during the interview. He added that Nyong’o possesses “a level of beauty both inside and out that you believe somebody would [go to war for],” before concluding, “I’m just so glad it was her.”

Nyong’o’s casting attracted significant attention long before “The Odyssey” reached theaters, with Helen of Troy remaining one of the most recognizable figures in Greek mythology. Christopher Nolan’s version of the character places her among an ensemble that includes Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Tom Holland as Telemachus and Zendaya as Athena.

Bernthal’s comments arrive as “The Odyssey “continues to dominate conversation following its release, with audiences discussing everything from Nolan’s ambitious retelling of Homer’s epic to the performances delivered by its star-studded cast. His enthusiastic endorsement adds another spotlight moment for Nyong’o, whose portrayal has become one of the film’s most talked-about supporting performances.

‘Mortal Kombat 2’ Brings Its Biggest Battles to HBO Max

For viewers who skipped the movie on the big screen, the HBO Max release offers the first opportunity to catch the latest installment at home. Directed by Simon McQuoid, who also helmed the 2021 reboot, the sequel centers on washed-up action star Johnny Cage as he is drawn into the Mortal Kombat tournament alongside Earth’s champions.

One of the film’s biggest additions is Karl Urban, who steps into the role of Johnny Cage. The cast also welcomes Adeline Rudolph as Princess Kitana, Tati Gabrielle as Jade, Martyn Ford as Shao Kahn, Damon Herriman as Quan Chi, Ana Thu Nguyen as Queen Sindel, Desmond Chiam as King Jerrod, and CJ Bloomfield as Baraka.

Several familiar faces from the first movie also return. Lewis Tan reprises his role as Cole Young alongside Jessica McNamee as Sonya Blade, Ludi Lin as Liu Kang, Mehcad Brooks as Jax, Josh Lawson as Kano, Chin Han as Shang Tsung, Tadanobu Asano as Raiden, Hiroyuki Sanada as Scorpion, Joe Taslim as Bi-Han, and Max Huang as Kung Lao.

Released theatrically in May, “Mortal Kombat 2” earned $129 million worldwide against an estimated $80 million production budget. The sequel received a warmer reception than its predecessor from some critics, though overall reviews remained mixed.

Why Lena Headey Says the Backlash Caught Her Off Guard

The controversy dates back to “Mother’s Mercy,” the Season 5 finale in which Cersei Lannister is forced to make a humiliating public walk through King’s Landing before returning to the Red Keep. The sequence became one of the series’ defining moments and was filmed by combining close-up performances from Headey with wider shots featuring body double Rebecca Van Cleave, whose performance was blended using CGI.

Looking back on the reaction, Headey admitted she never expected viewers to respond with such hostility after learning how the scene had been made. “I was really shocked by the anger, by this idea that I’d duped the audience,” she recalled, explaining that the criticism centered on the production’s decision to use a body double.

The actress also described the practical realities of filming a sequence on such a massive scale. “By that point everyone knew [the cast], it was insane simply going anywhere, and I was with 3000 extras,” she said, recalling the size of the production and the attention surrounding the series at the height of its popularity.

For Headey, the decision ultimately came down to protecting the emotional core of the performance. “Acting is a joy but it requires a lot of you,” she said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do the emotional part of the job; I’d have been in full on defensive mode.” The episode went on to earn widespread acclaim and remains one of the most discussed installments of “Game of Thrones,” with Cersei’s walk of atonement standing out as one of its most memorable sequences.

Tom Cruise Turned a Delayed Arrival Into a Special Screening for AMC Employees

IMAX hosted the screening on Wednesday night at AMC Lincoln Square, where Cruise had been expected to attend. However, severe weather disrupted his travel plans, and he did not reach the Upper West Side until approximately 10:45 p.m., after the audience had already left the theater.

According to Page Six, IMAX arranged for “The Odyssey” to be shown again so Cruise could watch it. Before the screening began, the actor reportedly invited AMC employees who were finishing their shifts, including staff members cleaning theaters and restocking concession stands, to join him for the private replay instead of watching the film alone.

The story quickly gained attention because it reinforced Cruise’s long-standing reputation as one of Hollywood’s strongest advocates for the theatrical moviegoing experience. Following the screening, he also praised “The Odyssey” on Instagram, calling Christopher Nolan’s latest hit brilliant and encouraging audiences to experience it in theaters. The picture stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and follows the Greek king’s perilous journey home after the Trojan War in Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s classic epic poem.

Cruise is now preparing for the release of his next project, “Digger,” directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Scheduled to open in theaters and IMAX on October 2, 2026, the satirical black comedy stars Cruise as wealthy oil tycoon Digger Rockwell alongside Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg, Jesse Plemons, Emma D’Arcy, and Sophie Wilde. It follows a powerful businessman racing to convince the world he can save humanity after triggering a catastrophic crisis.

Christopher Nolan’s Epic Opens With Strong Early Box Office Momentum

The strong preview performance marks the first major box office test for Nolan since “Oppenheimer,” which became a global phenomenon in 2023. With a reported production budget of $250 million, “The Odyssey” enters theaters as one of the filmmaker’s largest and most expensive productions to date. Universal is counting on sustained audience interest over the weekend as the picture rolls out worldwide.

Based on Homer’s ancient Greek poem, “The Odyssey “follows Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he embarks on a perilous journey home after the Trojan War. His quest to return to Ithaca and reunite with his wife Penelope, portrayed by Anne Hathaway, unfolds through encounters with legendary creatures, hostile forces, and the lingering consequences of war. The ensemble cast also includes Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Samantha Morton, and John Leguizamo.

The title has also drawn attention for its technical achievements. Nolan became the first director to shoot an entire feature using IMAX 70 mm film cameras, a decision that has helped make premium format screenings one of the biggest attractions for moviegoers. Advance demand for IMAX presentations has been especially strong, with many screenings selling out well before release.

Early critical reception has further boosted the picture’s profile. “The Odyssey” currently holds a 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it the highest-rated movie of Nolan’s career on the review aggregator. Combined with its strong preview earnings and favorable opening weekend projections, the film begins its theatrical run with considerable momentum as it aims to become another major box office success for the Academy Award-winning filmmaker.

Tom Holland’s Joke About Zendaya Revives Marriage Speculation

During a WIRED interview alongside “The Odyssey” co-stars Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Robert Pattinson, the cast answered some of the internet’s most searched questions about the film. One of them focused on Athena, the goddess portrayed by Zendaya, and whether she had romantic feelings for Odysseus.

Holland wasted no time with his response. “No, because she’s married to me,” he said, prompting Damon to immediately reply, “Good answer.” The exchange quickly spread across social media, with many viewers interpreting the remark as yet another playful nod to the ongoing speculation surrounding the couple’s relationship.

The timing of the joke is notable given that Holland and Zendaya have never publicly confirmed whether they have married. Reports of their engagement first surfaced in early 2025, and fans have continued to scrutinize public appearances, jewelry and interviews for possible clues. While neither actor has addressed the rumors directly, Holland has occasionally leaned into the conversation with tongue-in-cheek comments.

That happened previously during an interview with Esquire, when he was asked about AI-generated wedding photos that had gone viral online. After being questioned about whether he had to reassure his family that the images were fake, Holland paused before joking, “No, because they were all there.” The quip quickly circulated online, becoming another moment that fueled speculation rather than settling it.

Holland and Zendaya appear together in Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” the filmmaker’s adaptation of Homer’s classic epic. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway plays Penelope, and Holland portrays Telemachus, joining an ensemble that also includes Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o and Charlize Theron.

Brenda Fricker Built an Extraordinary Career Across Film and Television

Fricker spent more than six decades working on stage and screen, earning widespread recognition for her ability to bring warmth, depth and authenticity to every role. In 1990, she became the first Irish actress to win an Academy Award after taking home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for portraying Christy Brown’s mother in “My Left Foot,” a performance that remains one of the defining achievements of her career.

Beyond her Oscar-winning work, Fricker reached millions of viewers through memorable performances in both Hollywood productions and British television. Many audiences remember her as the gentle Pigeon Lady in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,” while television fans knew her as Megan Roach in “Casualty,” a role she returned to several times over the years. Her filmography also included “The Field,” “A Time to Kill,” “Angels in the Outfield,” “Veronica Guerin” and “Albert Nobbs.”

Fricker continued acting well into the later stages of her career. She appeared in the television adaptation of “Holding” in 2021 before taking on the lead role in the 2024 drama “The Swallow.” Throughout her career, she remained one of Ireland’s most respected performers, receiving honors such as the inaugural Maureen O’Hara Award at the Kerry Film Festival and being ranked among the greatest Irish film actors by The Irish Times.

Following news of her passing, Belfield reflected on the relationship they shared throughout the years. “I was honoured to know, love and work with her and she will always have a place in my heart and in the heart of so many film and TV fans the world over,” he said. Fricker’s body of work, spanning acclaimed dramas, television series and beloved family picture, ensures her legacy will continue to resonate with audiences for generations.

Matt Damon Thinks Tom Holland Is About to Have a One of a Kind Movie Experience

While promoting “The Odyssey” with Complex, Damon was shocked by Holland’s admission that he had never watched “The Matrix.” Instead of expressing disbelief alone, the Oscar winner focused on what he considered the upside of the situation. His immediate reaction was, “Are you f*ing kidding me?” before adding, “I’m so jealous you get to see that for the first time.”

Damon also wondered whether the picture would land the same way for someone discovering it decades after its release. “I wonder if it’ll feel as groundbreaking to you as so much has been subsequently based on it,” he said, reflecting on the challenge of experiencing a hit whose innovations have been echoed across countless action and science fiction films.

The exchange quickly caught fans’ attention because “The Matrix” has long been regarded as a defining blockbuster, introducing visual techniques and storytelling ideas that reshaped modern action cinema. Holland’s confession surprised many movie lovers who assumed the actor had already crossed one of Hollywood’s most celebrated titles off his list.

The two actors currently share the screen in Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” which stars Damon as Odysseus and Holland as his son, Telemachus. The epic adaptation of Homer’s classic poem features an ensemble cast that also includes Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o and Charlize Theron, making the off-screen conversation between Damon and Holland another memorable moment in the film’s promotional tour.

Jon Bernthal’s Defiant Stand Set the Tone for ‘The Odyssey’

The story unfolded only a few weeks into production while Nolan was filming the Trojan Horse sequence in Morocco. Bernthal, who plays Menelaus in the film, was assigned to spend the scene standing neck-deep in water as the massive wooden horse rested partially submerged. The tank had been intended to keep the actors comfortable, but once cameras rolled, the water was unexpectedly ice cold. Within minutes, Bernthal was visibly shaking, prompting Nolan to suggest pulling him from the scene.

The actor had no interest in stopping. Instead, he looked at the filmmaker and declared, “You ain’t breaking me, Chris. There’s nothing you can do to break me.” Nolan kept the cameras rolling, allowing the sequence to continue despite the brutal conditions.

The impact extended well beyond that single day. Matt Damon, who leads the film as Odysseus, later recalled that Bernthal’s determination became an example everyone carried through the rest of the demanding shoot. “That was the first example of somebody pushing past what they thought they could do,” Damon said, adding that “Nobody in that horse was ever going to complain for the next five months about anything because of what we saw.” He also credited the moment with establishing “how we needed to show up for each other and for the movie.”

“The Odyssey” is Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem and follows Odysseus’ long journey home after the Trojan War. Starring Matt Damon alongside Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Samantha Morton and Bernthal, the large-scale production was filmed across multiple countries using IMAX 70 mm cameras throughout its entire shoot.

Chloe Fineman’s Time on Saturday Night Live Comes to an End

Fineman joined Saturday Night Live as a featured player in 2019 for the show’s 45th season, arriving alongside Bowen Yang and Shane Gillis. She quickly established herself as one of the breakout additions to the ensemble, earning a promotion to repertory player ahead of Season 47. Her talent for celebrity impressions became a defining part of her work on the series and helped her emerge as one of the show’s most recognizable cast members.

Before joining Saturday Night Live, Fineman had already attracted attention through comedy performances with The Groundlings and the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, as well as celebrity impression videos shared on social media. A graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts and the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, she steadily built a career in television and comedy before landing the role that introduced her to a national audience.

Her career has continued to expand while remaining part of the Saturday Night Live cast. In recent years, she appeared in projects including “Dickinson,” “Babylon,” “Megalopolis” and “Summer of 69,” while also lending her voice to animated productions.

Why Ron Burgundy Still Stands Above the Rest

Despite playing some of modern comedy’s most recognizable characters, Ferrell said there has always been one clear favorite. “Ron Burgundy,” he answered, before explaining that “Anchorman” carried a unique emotional weight. “The film was such a struggle to get made and the character such a fun one to play.”

For Ferrell, the satisfaction came from watching a project that spent years searching for support eventually find its audience. He recalled seeing “Anchorman” evolve “from this movie that no one wanted to make for three years” into a comedy that earned lasting cult status, calling that journey “the most satisfying thing.”

Released in 2004, “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” followed the self-important San Diego news anchor as his male-dominated newsroom is challenged by the arrival of ambitious journalist Veronica Corningstone. Directed by Adam McKay and co-written by McKay and Ferrell, the comedy earned mixed reviews upon release but steadily grew into one of the most quoted and influential comedies of the century, eventually spawning a sequel in 2013.

Even while naming Burgundy as the standout, Ferrell acknowledged that other performances remain especially meaningful. He said he “loved doing our characters in Step Brothers” and reflected on the uncertainty surrounding “Elf,” admitting that playing Buddy initially felt like a major gamble. “It could have been a career-ender, running around the streets of New York in elf tights.” Instead, as he put it, “it totally hit the bulls-eye with people.”

More than a decade after that interview, Ferrell’s filmography has continued to expand, but his answer remains telling. While audiences may debate whether Buddy the Elf or Brennan Huff are his funniest creations, the actor himself still points to Ron Burgundy as the role that delivered both the greatest challenge and the greatest reward.

Hal Williams Built a Career Through Television Classics and Memorable Film Roles

Born Halroy Candis Williams in Columbus, Ohio, on December 14, 1934, he did not enter the entertainment industry immediately. After working as a postal employee and corrections officer, he relocated to Hollywood in the late 1960s to pursue acting full-time. His persistence paid off as he steadily secured television work throughout the following decade.

Williams became widely known for portraying Officer “Smitty” Smith on “Sanford and Son,” a recurring role that helped establish him as a familiar television face. He later joined “The Waltons” as Harley Foster before reaching another career milestone as Lester Jenkins, the dependable family patriarch on NBC’s “227,” where he appeared throughout the sitcom’s five-season run.

Alongside his television success, Williams maintained an active film career. His credits included “Private Benjamin,” where he played Drill Sergeant Ted Ross, a role he later reprised in the television adaptation. He also appeared in pictures such as “Hardcore,” “The Rookie,” “Guess Who,” and “Flight,” demonstrating his versatility across comedy and drama.

Williams continued acting well into his later years. Most recently, he appeared in the reboot of “Matlock,” playing Autry in 2024 before returning to the role the following year. His final screen appearances capped a career that stretched across more than 50 years and included performances alongside some of television and film’s most recognizable stars.

Will Ferrell Walked Away From a $29 Million Sequel

Looking back on the decision during a 2021 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ferrell explained that the script for “Elf 2” simply didn’t convince him. He described the proposed story as “rehashed” and said he could not imagine promoting a film he did not genuinely believe in.

The actor even joked about what the publicity tour would have looked like had he accepted the offer. “I would have had to promote the movie from an honest place, which would’ve been, like, ‘Oh no, it’s not good. I just couldn’t turn down that much money,'” he recalled. After thinking it over, he realized he couldn’t sincerely make that argument, adding, “Can I actually say those words? I don’t think I can, so I guess I can’t do the movie.”

Released in 2003 and directed by Jon Favreau, “Elf” stars Ferrell as Buddy, a human who is accidentally raised by Santa Claus’ elves at the North Pole before traveling to New York City in search of his biological father. The cast also includes James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Bob Newhart, Ed Asner, and Mary Steenburgen. The family comedy earned nearly $229 million worldwide against a $33 million budget and received widespread praise for Ferrell’s performance.

More than two decades after its release, “Elf” remains a holiday favorite, returning to television schedules every Christmas season and frequently appearing on lists of the greatest modern holiday pictures. Its popularity also inspired a Broadway musical and an animated television special, but despite years of speculation about a follow-up, Ferrell’s decision ensured Buddy’s story would remain a one-film adventure.

Andy Serkis Says Casting Should Remain Story Driven

Speaking with the BBC, Serkis was asked why the cast announced for “The Hunt for Gollum” is made up entirely of white actors, including Jamie Dornan, Kate Winslet, Lee Pace, Leo Woodall, Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Serkis himself. Rather than dismissing the criticism, he acknowledged that it exists while pointing to the literary roots of Tolkien’s world.

“Tolkien himself was influenced a lot by Norse mythology,” Serkis said, adding that “The Shire feels very, very much like a very, a very white” place. He also described its inhabitants as people who “are not very concerned about what goes on beyond the borders of The Shire.”

The filmmaker recognized that the franchise has faced backlash over its lack of diversity over the years, saying, “Yes, there have been criticisms. This particular film is somewhat acknowledging that.” At the same time, he made clear that the production would not reshape its casting philosophy simply to answer those concerns.

“But I don’t think we will be doing a politically correct just-casting-for-the-sake-of-casting-and-ticking-boxes version of the film,” Serkis said. “So, it’s where relevant basically.”

What Is ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ About?

Set before and during the events of “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring,” “The Hunt for Gollum” follows Gandalf’s decision to send Strider on a mission to track down Gollum before Sauron’s forces can reach him. The story is told largely from Gollum’s perspective and expands a chapter of Tolkien’s mythology that was only briefly referenced in the original trilogy.

Serkis directs the film while reprising his iconic motion capture role as Gollum. Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens return as producers, with the screenplay written by Walsh, Boyens, Phoebe Gittins, and Arty Papageorgiou. The fantasy adventure is currently filming in New Zealand and is scheduled to arrive in theaters on Dec. 17, 2027.

Tom Holland’s Performance Emerges as a Big Point of Debate

Based on Homer’s ancient Greek epic, “The Odyssey” follows Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he struggles to return to Ithaca after the Trojan War, while his son Telemachus, portrayed by Holland, embarks on his own journey to uncover his father’s fate. The picture also stars Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Samantha Morton and Charlize Theron, and marks Nolan’s first feature shot entirely on IMAX 70 mm cameras.

Although many critics celebrated the production, Holland’s work drew repeated scrutiny. In The Hollywood Reporter, David Rooney praised the film’s ensemble and technical achievements but argued that “while he is always an appealing screen presence, [Holland] is wrong for the role.” Rooney also wrote that the actor “comes across as, well, Peter Parker in a tunic, sapping the gravitas from Telemachus’ path to maturity.”

Other reviewers reached similar conclusions. Financial Times critic Danny Leigh took issue with the contemporary dialogue, writing that Holland’s repeated use of the word “dad” pulled him out of the story, adding that the actor remains “comic-book basic.” Time’s Stephanie Zacharek described Holland as “so bland he’s practically unreadable,” while Inverse’s Hoai-Tran Bui offered a more measured assessment, writing that Telemachus “suffers from being just fine” in a cast filled with more commanding performances.

Outside of the criticism aimed at Holland, the reception has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. The Guardian hailed the title’s “thrilling ambition, boldness, seriousness, generosity and flair,” while IGN called it “a must-watch cinematic experience.” Empire praised Nolan’s enormous scale and singled out Samantha Morton’s Circe as the filmmaker’s closest venture into full-on horror, and The Telegraph went even further, describing “The Odyssey” as “the best of the year so far.”

Together, the reviews suggest that while one casting choice has divided opinion, Nolan’s ambitious adaptation is arriving in theaters with extraordinary momentum.

Jessica Alba’s Next Netflix Project Keeps Plot Details Secret

Netflix has yet to reveal what role Alba will play, and representatives for the streamer declined to comment on the casting report. Jennifer Garner, who starred as Jenna Rink in the 2004 original, is attached to the new film as an executive producer.

The original “13 Going on 30” followed 13-year-old Jenna Rink, who mysteriously wakes up as her 30-year-old self after wishing to skip the awkward years of adolescence. Garner starred opposite Mark Ruffalo in the fantasy rom-com, which earned positive reviews, grossed more than $96 million worldwide, and developed a lasting following thanks to its blend of humor, romance, and coming-of-age themes.

For Alba, the project marks another collaboration with Netflix following the 2024 action thriller “Trigger Warning.” In the film, she played Parker, a Special Forces operative who returns to her hometown after her father’s death and uncovers a conspiracy involving illegal weapons trafficking and political corruption. Despite receiving mixed-to-negative reviews from critics, the movie became a major streaming success for Netflix, reaching the top spot in dozens of countries after its release.

Critics hail Christopher Nolan’s bold vision for ‘The Odyssey’

Adapted from Homer’s ancient Greek epic, “The Odyssey” stars Damon as the king of Ithaca, following his perilous journey home after the Trojan War while his family fights to preserve the throne in his absence. The ensemble cast also includes Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Samantha Morton and Charlize Theron. The production marks Nolan’s first feature shot entirely with IMAX 70 mm cameras and is one of the biggest projects of his career.

Among the strongest endorsements came from The Telegraph, where Robbie Collin described the title as “the best of the year so far,” adding that Nolan has transformed one of literature’s oldest stories into “a vote of confidence in blockbuster cinema’s future.” That enthusiasm was echoed by The Guardian, whose Peter Bradshaw celebrated the movie’s scale and craftsmanship, praising its “thrilling ambition, boldness, seriousness, generosity and flair,” along with Hoyte van Hoytema’s striking photography and the picture’s massive battle sequences.

IGN’s Scott Collura also delivered a positive verdict, calling the hit “a must-watch cinematic experience.” While noting that some thematic ideas could have been explored further, he highlighted Nolan’s willingness to embrace the stranger aspects of Homer’s poem, blending mythology with horror, existential dread and moments of unexpected humor. He also singled out the supporting ensemble as one of the film’s greatest strengths alongside Nolan’s additions to the source material.

Empire focused on the sheer scale of the production while pointing to one of its most surprising elements. John Nugent wrote that the movie reaches “a magnitude few modern directors could ever realistically imagine,” but argued that its quieter character moments are just as memorable. He also singled out Samantha Morton’s portrayal of Circe, describing the sequence as the closest Nolan has come to making “full-on horror,” before concluding with a simple verdict: “Nobody does it better.”

The overwhelmingly positive reception continues the remarkable momentum surrounding “The Odyssey,” which has already generated record-breaking advance ticket sales and enormous anticipation ahead of its July 17 release.

The Role Forest Whitaker Almost Made His Own

Today, Sawyer is widely remembered as one of the hit’s most recognizable characters. Introduced as a sharp-tongued con artist who survived the crash of Oceanic Flight 815, James “Sawyer” Ford gradually evolved from an anti-hero into one of the series’ emotional anchors. His complicated relationships, personal tragedies, and eventual transformation into a reluctant leader made him a standout throughout the show’s six-season run.

Whitaker, however, was initially expected to bring that character to life. Before filming began, he chose to leave the project in order to focus on directing “First Daughter,” a romantic comedy starring Katie Holmes as Samantha MacKenzie, the daughter of a fictional U.S. president seeking a taste of ordinary college life. The picture also featured Michael Keaton as the president, Marc Blucas as Samantha’s love interest, and included narration from Whitaker himself.

Released in 2004 by 20th Century Fox, “First Daughter” spent years in development before finally reaching theaters. Although the film attracted a recognizable cast, it struggled with critics and audiences upon release, earning generally unfavorable reviews and falling short commercially at the box office.

Whitaker’s departure ultimately changed the trajectory of “Lost.” Josh Holloway inherited the role of Sawyer and developed the character into one of the show’s most memorable figures, with storylines that stretched from his rivalry with Jack Shephard to his romances with Kate Austen and Juliet Burke.

Looking back on Whitaker’s birthday, the casting decision remains one of those fascinating television what-ifs that could have given one of the medium’s most iconic characters a completely different legacy.

Alan Rickman Wasn’t Sure ‘Die Hard’ Was the Right Beginning

When Alan Rickman was offered the role of Hans Gruber, he had been in Hollywood for only two days. Best known for his acclaimed stage work in Britain, he questioned whether appearing as the villain in a big action title was the right way to launch his screen career. The prospect left him uneasy enough that he nearly walked away from the project altogether.

His concerns proved understandable in hindsight. “Die Hard” became his first feature film, and Hans Gruber quickly established a standard for cinematic villains that few performances have matched since. The character’s intelligence, composure, and dry wit helped set him apart from the typical action movie antagonist of the era, earning Rickman widespread acclaim almost immediately.

The success, however, came with an unexpected consequence. Rickman’s performance was so celebrated that he spent much of the following years being offered villainous roles. Although he built an acclaimed career that included everything from “Truly, Madly, Deeply” to “Sense and Sensibility,” the shadow of Hans Gruber followed him for decades as filmmakers repeatedly sought him for similar characters.

Directed by John McTiernan, “Die Hard” follows New York police detective John McClane, played by Bruce Willis, as he battles a group of heavily armed criminals who seize control of Los Angeles’ Nakatomi Plaza during a Christmas Eve office party. Co-starring Bonnie Bedelia, Reginald VelJohnson, Alexander Godunov, and Rickman, the picture became both a box office success and a lasting action classic, while launching his remarkable film career with a role he almost declined.

Why Bruce Willis Was Missing From the First ‘Die Hard’ Posters

When “Die Hard” premiered in 1988, Bruce Willis was far from the established action star audiences know today. He was best known for starring alongside Cybill Shepherd in the hit television series “Moonlighting,” and many moviegoers expected another comedy when the first trailers reached theaters. As informed by IMDb trivia, some audiences even laughed during those early previews because they found it difficult to picture Willis as the lead in a high-stakes action title.

The studio quickly adjusted its marketing strategy. Instead of placing Willis front and center, early posters highlighted the Nakatomi Plaza skyscraper, allowing the setting itself to become the movie’s defining image. The decision was intended to avoid reinforcing expectations that the film would be a comedy simply because of its leading man. Once “Die Hard” opened to enthusiastic audiences and positive word of mouth, Willis returned to the promotional artwork as the face of the production.

Released in July 1988, “Die Hard” follows New York police detective John McClane, who becomes trapped inside a Los Angeles office tower after terrorists seize the building during a Christmas Eve party. Directed by John McTiernan and based on Roderick Thorp‘s novel “Nothing Lasts Forever,” the title also stars Alan Rickman in his feature film debut as Hans Gruber, alongside Bonnie Bedelia, Reginald VelJohnson and Alexander Godunov.

The gamble ultimately paid off. “Die Hard” became one of 1988’s biggest box office successes, earning $140 million worldwide and transforming Willis into one of Hollywood’s leading action stars. The movie also launched a long-running franchise, earned four Academy Award nominations, and has since been preserved in the National Film Registry for its cultural and historical significance.

A Red Carpet Worthy of Christopher Nolan’s Epic

The five actresses posed together in coordinated yet distinctly individual looks that reflected their own styles while complementing the grandeur of the event. Hathaway opted for a flowing white gown with a silver embellished halter neckline, while Nyong’o wore a strapless gold gown paired with a statement choker necklace. Theron chose a tailored ivory blazer-inspired dress with a dramatic bow at the waist, and Zendaya embraced mythology in a sculptural white feather-inspired gown. Morton completed the lineup in a burgundy patterned dress layered with a coordinating shawl.

The gathering highlighted the depth of Nolan’s ensemble cast ahead of the film’s theatrical release. Hathaway portrays Penelope, the steadfast queen of Ithaca, while Nyong’o takes on the dual roles of Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra. Zendaya appears as Athena, the goddess who guides Odysseus throughout his journey, Theron plays the nymph Calypso, and Morton portrays the enchantress Circe.

Directed by Nolan, “The Odyssey” stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and reimagines Homer’s ancient Greek epic, following the king of Ithaca as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War while facing legendary creatures and divine intervention. The film also features Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Jon Bernthal, and John Leguizamo as part of its expansive cast.

The New York premiere marked one of the final major promotional stops before “The Odyssey” opens in theaters on July 17. Shot entirely with IMAX 70 mm cameras, the epic fantasy has been positioned as one of Nolan’s most ambitious productions to date.

The actor appears in Christopher Nolan‘s epic as Eumaeus, the loyal swineherd who remains devoted to Odysseus throughout his long journey home.

John Leguizamo Says Latino Representation Has Defined His Hollywood Journey

Asked what his own “odyssey” had been, Leguizamo did not point to a memorable role or career milestone. Instead, he framed his experience in the entertainment industry around advocacy. “It’s always been a battle. Hollywood is not the most accepting place,” he said.

The veteran actor also pointed to what he sees as a disconnect between audience support and industry opportunities. “Even though we Latin people are 30% to 40% of the box office and a third of streamers, we’re the most aggressively underrepresented group in America,” Leguizamo said, reiterating a concern he has raised throughout his career.

His comments arrived as “The Odyssey” prepares for its theatrical release. Directed by Nolan, the adaptation of Homer’s classic poem stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and features an ensemble that includes Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong’o, Jon Bernthal, and Leguizamo as Eumaeus, the faithful servant who plays a key role in Odysseus’ return to Ithaca.

Leguizamo has spent more than four decades working across film, television, stand-up comedy, and Broadway. His credits range from “Carlito’s Way,” “Romeo + Juliet,” and the “John Wick” franchise to voicing Sid in the “Ice Age” films and Bruno in “Encanto.”

Alongside his acting career, he has consistently championed Latino stories through projects such as “Latin History for M**ons,” “American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos,” and “Leguizamo Does America,” making representation a defining theme of both his work and his public advocacy.

Zendaya Says It’s Time to Step Away After a Whirlwind Year

Speaking on the red carpet, Zendaya described the pace of her schedule as relentless, saying, “This is such a whirlwind and you’re in a new place every second and your brain is all over the place.” Even with the nonstop travel, she made it clear she has no regrets about the experience, adding, “It’s fun and I’m grateful and I wouldn’t change a thing.” Still, she admitted that the intensity of the past several months has left her looking forward to some time away from public life, saying, “Sometimes you need to disappear for a little bit.”

Her comments come after a year unlike any other in her career. In April, Zendaya led A24’s “The Drama” alongside Robert Pattinson before returning as Rue Bennett in the long-awaited third season of HBO’s “Euphoria.” This month alone, she is appearing in Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” as Athena and will soon reprise her role as MJ opposite Tom Holland in Marvel’s “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.” Later this year, she returns as Chani in “Dune: Part Three,” the conclusion of Denis Villeneuve‘s acclaimed trilogy.

The latest remarks also reinforce what Zendaya hinted at earlier this year. During a March interview with Fandango, she joked about her packed release schedule, saying, “I just hope you guys don’t get sick of me this year because I’ll tell you what, I’m disappearing for a little bit. I’m going to have to go into hiding for just a little bit.” At the time, she also expressed gratitude to fans, saying she was “deeply appreciative” of everyone who has supported her career.

With “The Odyssey” opening on July 17, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” arriving on July 31, and “Dune: Part Three” set for a December release, Zendaya’s 2026 agenda is far from over. Even so, her latest comments suggest that once the current wave of premieres and promotional appearances comes to an end, she intends to take a well-earned pause before beginning her next chapter.

The appearance continued a fashion-forward promotional campaign that has made each stop on the picture’s press tour a closely watched event as anticipation builds ahead of the movie’s July 17 release.

Zendaya Brings Athena to Life on the Red Carpet

According to People, Zendaya arrived at AMC Lincoln Square Theater in New York wearing a white Matières Fécales couture gown featuring sculptural angel-like wings and an elaborate feather-inspired train. Styled by longtime collaborator Law Roach, the look was completed with Chopard diamond earrings and a whimsical fishtail braid, creating an ethereal silhouette that echoed the mythology at the center of the production.

The ensemble fit into the growing trend of method dressing, in which actors incorporate elements of their characters into their promotional wardrobes. Throughout “The Odyssey” press tour, Zendaya has consistently embraced avant-garde designs that reference Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare she portrays in Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s classic epic.

The New York appearance followed another headline-making fashion moment at the film’s London premiere, where Zendaya wore a sculptural white halter gown with a molded bodice and a crystal embellished column skirt that also drew inspiration from her role. Together, the outfits have become a defining feature of the worldwide promotional campaign, with Roach once again overseeing the actress’ high-profile red carpet styling.

“The Odyssey” stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, the legendary king of Ithaca whose long journey home after the Trojan War forms the basis of Homer’s ancient poem. The ensemble cast also includes Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron, and Zendaya as Athena. Directed by Nolan, the epic was filmed entirely with IMAX 70 mm cameras and arrives in theaters on July 17.

Why ‘The Batman Part II’ Is Moving to 2028

The latest schedule change extends an already lengthy road to the sequel. When the project was first announced, Warner Bros. planned to release the picture in October 2025. That date later shifted to October 2026 before moving again to October 2027. With the newly announced February 18, 2028 release, audiences will wait nearly six years between installments.

Several factors have contributed to the extended timeline. Development was slowed by the 2023 Hollywood labor strikes, while Reeves has repeatedly emphasized his commitment to refining the screenplay before cameras rolled. The additional delay is also expected to provide more time for post-production and the extensive visual effects work required for the film.

Reeves returns to direct and co-write the sequel with Mattson Tomlin, with Robert Pattinson once again portraying Bruce Wayne. Returning cast members include Jeffrey Wright as Jim Gordon, Andy Serkis as Alfred Pennyworth and Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb, while new additions include Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan and Charles Dance. The story will take place during winter as Batman investigates a new mystery that continues exploring Gotham City’s corruption after the devastating flood seen at the end of the first entry.

Released in 2022, “The Batman” introduced Pattinson’s version of the Caped Crusader during his second year as Gotham’s vigilante. Directed by Reeves, the noir-inspired superhero hit earned more than $772 million worldwide and received praise for its detective-focused approach, helping launch what has become the filmmaker’s separate “Batman Epic Crime Saga,” which also includes HBO’s “The Penguin.” With production now underway, the newly announced release date gives Reeves additional time to complete the next chapter of that universe.

Peter Jackson Says ‘Tintin 2’ Is Finally Ready After Years in Development

Jackson has not directed a feature film since “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,” which arrived in theaters in 2014 and closed his second journey through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Despite stepping away from narrative filmmaking, he continued producing high-profile projects and helmed acclaimed documentaries including “They Shall Not Grow Old” and “The Beatles: Get Back.”

Now, the Oscar-winning author says the long-promised Tintin sequel has reached an important milestone. “Fran and I have been writing a script for the next Tintin film because 15 years ago, Steven Spielberg directed a Tintin film and I produced it,” Jackson said, referring to his longtime creative partner and co-writer Fran Walsh. The original plan called for the collaborators to switch creative roles after Spielberg directed “The Adventures of Tintin,” with Jackson taking over as director for the follow-up.

That handoff never happened on schedule, but Jackson suggested the wait is finally coming to an end. “It’s just taken 15 years to get there, unfortunately, a bit late. But it’s a timeless story. So we just wrapped up. So probably the next film that I’d actually direct is a Tintin movie.”

Before returning behind the camera, Jackson is once again involved in Middle-earth through “The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,” which recently entered production with Andy Serkis directing and reprising his iconic role. Jackson is serving as a producer on the picture, which is currently scheduled to reach theaters in December 2027.

Neither Jackson nor the filmmakers shared a timetable for when “Tintin 2” could begin production. Even so, his latest comments offer the clearest indication yet that the sequel is no longer sitting in development, bringing renewed momentum to a project that has remained one of Hollywood’s longest-awaited animated follow-ups.

Released in 2011, “The Adventures of Tintin” blended motion-capture technology with Hergé’s beloved comic books. The title earned generally positive reviews, won the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature, and grossed nearly $374 million worldwide.

Stephen King Calls Out Utah After ‘Different Seasons’ Joins School Book Ban List

King reacted on X after reports confirmed that the collection of novellas had been removed from libraries in multiple Utah school districts under the state’s book ban law. “They banned Different Seasons in Utah,” King wrote. “Contains Stand by Me and The Shawshank Redemption, stories of friendship and courage. Readable by teens, too. What’s wrong with these people?”

The collection became the latest title added to Utah’s growing list of restricted books after meeting the threshold established under a 2022 state law. The legislation allows books to be removed from public school libraries when three school districts, or a combination of two school districts and five charter schools, determine that they contain what the law defines as objective sensitive material. With King’s work included, the statewide list now totals 36 banned titles.

Published in 1982, “Different Seasons” marked a departure from the supernatural fiction that had made King famous. Instead of horror, it gathered four character-driven novellas: “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption,” “The Body,” “Apt Pupil,” and “The Breathing Method.” Three of those stories were later adapted into feature films, with “The Shawshank Redemption” earning a Best Picture nomination at the Academy Awards and “Stand by Me” receiving a Best Adapted Screenplay nomination.

Alongside King’s collection, titles such as George R.R. Martin’s “A Clash of Kings,” John Green’s “Looking for Alaska,” and Jay Asher’s “Thirteen Reasons Why” have also been removed from school libraries.

Steve Buscemi Boards the Expanding Cast of ‘Far Cry’

Buscemi’s role has not yet been revealed, and neither FX nor the creative team has shared plot details about the hit’s first installment. The secrecy follows the approach taken since the project was first announced, with much of the show’s story still being kept under wraps as production moves forward.

The adaptation is being developed by Noah Hawley, the creator behind “Fargo” and “Alien: Earth,” alongside “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” star Rob McElhenney, who will also appear on screen. Lizzy Caplan was previously announced as a cast member, making Buscemi the latest high profile addition to the ensemble.

Rather than adapting a single game, “Far Cry” will mirror the structure of the long-running video game franchise by adopting an anthology format. Each season is expected to introduce a new setting, a different group of characters, and a standalone story, allowing the series to explore the wide variety of worlds and conflicts that have defined the games over the years.

The television adaptation is being produced by FX Productions in partnership with Ubisoft Film & Television. It is set to stream on Hulu in the United States and on Disney+ in international markets, though a premiere date has not yet been announced.

Tom Cruise Joins FIFA’s World Cup Final Celebration

FIFA has not disclosed what Cruise’s role will involve, only describing it as a “special appearance.” The actor has become known for turning live events into headline-making spectacles, most notably at the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he descended from the roof of Stade de France before carrying the Olympic flag away on a motorcycle as part of the handover to Los Angeles.

The organization also announced that Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem before kickoff. Meanwhile, the World Cup final itself will feature another first for the tournament with its inaugural half-time show. Scheduled performers include Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay, and the Sesame Street Muppets. Reports indicate the musical production will extend the traditional 15-minute interval to approximately 30 minutes.

Cruise’s appearance arrives as he ramps up promotion for his next picture, “Digger,” the upcoming satirical comedy directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. The Warner Bros. Pictures release stars Cruise as wealthy oil tycoon Digger Rockwell alongside Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg and Jesse Plemons. It follows one of the world’s most powerful men as he attempts to convince humanity he can save it from a catastrophe of his own making.

Marketing for “Digger” has intensified in recent months. Cruise and Iñárritu debuted new footage at CinemaCon earlier this year before Warner Bros. expanded the campaign with teaser footage, posters and a full trailer released yesterday. The film is scheduled to open in U.S. theaters and IMAX on October 2.

The Deal Goes Beyond Music Rights

While the financial details have not been fully disclosed, Billboard reported that Pophouse acquired a 50% stake in the assets included in the agreement. The company, which was co-founded by ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus, has become known for investing in the intellectual property of globally recognized music acts.

The partnership is expected to fuel a series of projects aimed at both longtime fans and new audiences. Among the first initiatives is the Infinite Dreams Museum Experience, an immersive exhibition celebrating Iron Maiden’s 50-year history. Debuting alongside the band’s recent EddFest event at Knebworth House, the attraction places Eddie at the center of the experience through themed installations and interactive elements inspired by the anniversary book “Infinite Dreams.”

The collaboration also extends to film and digital media. Pophouse is working with Iron Maiden on a cinematic project built around the band’s ongoing Run for Your Lives world tour. Future plans outlined by the companies include additional interactive fan experiences and the development of a digital universe centered on Eddie, one of heavy metal’s most recognizable characters.

Pophouse CEO Jessica Koravos described Iron Maiden’s longevity and extensive catalog as the foundation for a wide range of future opportunities, saying the partnership is intended to help carry the band’s legacy forward while creating new ways for fans to engage with its history.

Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood also welcomed the agreement, explaining that the relationship has been in development for more than a year and has already helped accelerate projects such as the museum experience and the tour film. He added that the band has many more plans in the works and assured fans that Eddie will remain at the heart of what comes next.

The Directors Used Unusual Methods to Keep the Cast on Edge

Rather than following a conventional script, directors Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sánchez gave Heather Donahue, Joshua Leonard, and Michael C. Williams only general instructions for each day’s filming. The actors navigated the Maryland woods using GPS coordinates and discovered hidden film canisters containing notes that guided the next stage of the story, leaving much of their dialogue and reactions to improvisation.

To intensify the experience, the filmmakers gradually reduced the cast’s food supply while forcing them to hike long distances through the forest. During the night, members of the crew secretly disturbed the campsite by snapping branches, shaking tents, and creating unexplained noises. The goal was to wear down the actors physically and emotionally so their exhaustion and anxiety would naturally appear on camera.

The production also encouraged uncertainty by keeping key story developments hidden from the performers. They did not always know what would happen next or what surprises awaited them at each location. Even the now iconic final image of Mike standing silently in the corner was conceived only days before it was filmed, preserving the sense of unpredictability throughout the shoot.

Those techniques helped create one of horror’s most convincing performances. Produced on a modest budget, “The Blair Witch Project” became a worldwide phenomenon, earning nearly $250 million at the global box office and inspiring a new wave of found footage films, including “Paranormal Activity,” “REC,” and “Cloverfield.” More than two decades later, its innovative production methods remain as famous as the movie itself.

Hugh Jackman’s Cold Shower Routine Became His Wolverine Ritual

When production on “X-Men” began in 1999, Jackman accidentally stepped into an ice-cold shower at 5 a.m. after discovering there was no hot water. Rather than waking his wife or complaining, he endured the shock and realized the experience mirrored Wolverine’s constant emotional state. The sudden urge to lash out while forcing himself to stay in control reminded him of the character’s internal struggle.

That realization transformed a simple accident into part of his daily preparation. Jackman continued taking freezing showers every morning throughout filming, using the experience to place himself in Wolverine’s mindset before arriving on set. The habit became more than a one-time exercise, as he repeated the routine for every subsequent appearance as the clawed mutant.

The role itself marked a turning point in Jackman’s career. Cast just three weeks after principal photography had already started, the Australian actor was a last-minute replacement who quickly became the face of one of Marvel’s biggest franchises. Directed by Bryan Singer, “X-Men” introduced audiences to a world where mutants with extraordinary abilities faced fear and discrimination, with Wolverine and Rogue caught between Professor Charles Xavier’s X-Men and Magneto’s Brotherhood of Mutants.

Released in July 2000, the picture earned nearly $300 million worldwide and helped usher in a new era for superhero films. It launched a long-running franchise and established Jackman’s Wolverine as one of the genre’s defining characters, a performance he would revisit for more than two decades, with the cold shower ritual remaining part of his preparation throughout that journey.

The found footage classic, directed by Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sánchez, would go on to become one of the most profitable independent films ever made while redefining horror for a new generation.

How ‘The Blair Witch Project’ Convinced Millions It Was Real

Years before Facebook, YouTube, or viral TikTok campaigns, the filmmakers built an elaborate fictional world that extended far beyond the movie itself. An official website made for the picture featured fake police reports, fabricated evidence, interviews with supposed investigators, and detailed accounts of the search for the missing students. The strategy was so convincing that countless viewers debated whether the story was based on actual events.

The illusion continued outside the internet. Missing person posters featuring stars Heather Donahue, Joshua Leonard, and Michael C. Williams appeared at film festivals, while the actors were instructed to avoid public appearances before the production’s release. Even IMDb reportedly listed the performers as “missing, presumed dead” during the flick’s early rollout, adding another layer to the carefully constructed mystery.

The campaign had unexpected real-world consequences. As per IMDb trivia, fans traveled to Burkittsville, Maryland, hoping to uncover evidence of the Blair Witch legend, while some visitors vandalized locations connected to the film and even stole the town’s welcome sign. Heather Donahue’s mother also received sympathy cards from people who believed her daughter had genuinely disappeared in the woods.

The strategy proved remarkably successful. Made on a modest budget before becoming one of the highest-grossing independent titles ever, “The Blair Witch Project” earned nearly $250 million worldwide and established a blueprint for modern viral movie marketing. Beyond its commercial success, the hit also helped popularize the found footage style that later inspired horror hits such as “Paranormal Activity,” “REC,” and “Cloverfield.”

The Two Underrated Films Harrison Ford Is Proudest Of

When asked whether there was a role he felt had been underappreciated, Ford’s answer did not include any of his most famous franchises. Instead, he immediately pointed to a baseball dramaand a Cold War thriller. “I’m proud of 42. I’m proud of K-19: The Widowmaker, where I played a Russian submarine captain,” he said, before adding that he considers both to be “good movies.”

Ford also made it clear that his perspective is not shaped by awards or box office results. “Each film has its own destiny,” he remarked, explaining that he does not spend time looking back and reassessing how individual projects were received. For the veteran actor, the quality of the work itself is what continues to matter most.

Released in 2013, “42” chronicles the story of Jackie Robinson, the player who broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier. Chadwick Boseman stars as Robinson, while Ford delivers an acclaimed performance as Brooklyn Dodgers executive Branch Rickey, the man who signed Robinson despite widespread opposition. The biographical drama earned generally positive reviews and grossed nearly $100 million worldwide, with Ford receiving praise for his transformation into the baseball executive.

“K-19: The Widowmaker,” released in 2002, cast Ford opposite Liam Neeson in a tense historical drama directed by Kathryn Bigelow. Set aboard the Soviet Union’s first nuclear ballistic missile submarine, the film follows Captain Alexei Vostrikov as his crew races to prevent a catastrophic reactor meltdown during the height of the Cold War. Although critics praised the performances and the picture’s atmosphere, it struggled at the box office, making Ford’s continued admiration for the project especially notable more than two decades later.

Henry Cavill Welcomed David Corenswet to the Role in His Own Way

Before production began, Corenswet exchanged letters with both Cavill and fellow Superman actor Tyler Hoechlin. Rather than offering acting tips or trying to shape his interpretation of the character, both performers deliberately took a different approach. They made it clear they were not gonna try to give him advice about playing Superman.

Cavill instead focused on a simple message of support. Corenswet later shared that the former Superman encouraged him to “have fun with it,” allowing the new actor to discover the role on his own terms. He chose not to reveal the rest of the letter, explaining that the exchange was personal and meaningful between the two of them.

Speaking about the correspondence, Corenswet described the decision to avoid giving instructions as “a very Superman thing” to do. The timing was especially significant as the star prepared to headline James Gunn’s “Superman,” the first theatrical release in the new DC Universe. The picture follows Clark Kent as he balances his work as a Daily Planet reporter with the challenges of being Earth’s greatest protector, while facing a conflict engineered by Lex Luthor and trying to regain the public’s trust.

Corenswet’s time as Superman is only just beginning. He is set to reprise the role in “Man of Tomorrow,” Gunn’s upcoming follow-up, which will see the superhero and Lex Luthor reluctantly join forces against the powerful Brainiac. The film is currently scheduled to arrive in theaters in July 2027.

Why Surfer Rosa Still Stands Above the Rest for Dave Grohl

For Grohl, the appeal of Surfer Rosa begins behind the recording console. He credited the album’s producer, Steve Albini, with helping shape a sound that felt unlike anything else at the time, calling him “the almighty Steve Albini” and praising the record as an early showcase of the engineer’s unmistakable sonic approach. The 1988 release would later become one of alternative rock’s defining albums, influencing artists from Nirvana to PJ Harvey while earning a lasting reputation as a critical favorite.

Beyond its production, Grohl pointed to the songwriting and the chemistry within the band. He admired Frank Black‘s ability to balance ideas that were “abstract intellectual” with lyrics that could also feel “so absurd and almost d*mb in a way.” He also highlighted the vocal interplay between Black and bassist Kim Deal, saying their voices created “such a wonderful blend” and that the stripped-back dynamic felt genuinely distinctive.

That admiration has never faded. Looking back on the record, Grohl estimated, “I’ve probably listened to it 10,000 times and I still love it.” He added that it remains one of those rare albums he could “still listen to every day,” despite having spent decades immersed in music as both a fan and performer.

Released in March 1988, Surfer Rosa introduced many of the qualities that would define the Pixies’ influence, from its quiet-loud shifts to its unconventional lyrics and raw recording style. Although it was not a major commercial success upon release, the album steadily built a reputation as one of alternative rock’s essential works, with songs like “Where Is My Mind?” and “Gigantic” becoming enduring touchstones.

Peter Van Norden Built a Career That Extended Far Beyond ‘Police Academy 2’

Although moviegoers may best remember Van Norden as the disheveled Officer Vinnie Schtulman opposite Steve Guttenberg in the 1985 comedy “Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment,” his career covered a much broader range of projects. He also appeared in films including “The Accused,” “The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear,” and Stephen King’s television miniseries “The Stand,” establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s dependable character actors throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Robert Van Norden shared the news of his father’s passing in an Instagram post, describing him as “a terrific father, husband, friend, and a greatly respected member of the theater community.”

Born in New York City on December 16, 1950, Van Norden graduated magna cum laude from Colgate University before pursuing an acting career. He accumulated an extensive list of film and television credits that included appearances on “Cheers,” “St. Elsewhere,” “Family Ties,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “Matlock,” among other titles.

His stage résumé spanned five decades and featured productions of Shakespeare, contemporary dramas, and musicals at venues across the United States. Among his many notable performances, he portrayed Henry Kissinger in multiple productions of “Nixon’s Nixon,” played Scrooge in several stagings of “A Christmas Carol,” and became the first American actor to play King Charles in the stage production of “King Charles III.” His final credited theater role came in 2025’s “Corktown ’39,” closing a career that left its mark on both the stage and the screen.

How the Minions’ Famous Language Was Created

Released in 2015, “Minions” served as a prequel to “Despicable Me,” following Kevin, Stuart, and Bob on a globe-spanning search for the perfect villain to serve. The animated comedy introduced audiences to Scarlet Overkill, voiced by Sandra Bullock, while exploring the tiny yellow creatures’ long history before they met Gru. The picture became a worldwide phenomenon, earning more than $1.1 billion at the global box office and launching its own successful series of spin-offs.

One of the film’s defining features was Minionese, the playful language spoken by the characters throughout the movie. Rather than developing a formal vocabulary or grammar, Coffin built the dialogue through spontaneous improvisation, selecting words and syllables that simply sounded funny and expressive. The result was a language that audiences could somehow understand without ever actually speaking it.

Its vocabulary draws inspiration from numerous real languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Indonesian, Hebrew, and Malay, while also incorporating plenty of invented sounds and cheerful gibberish. During recording sessions, Coffin also borrowed words from languages such as Japanese, Hindi, and Filipino whenever they fit the rhythm of a particular scene, creating dialogue that felt both familiar and completely unique.

Coffin’s contribution extended far beyond inventing the language. He personally voiced every Minion featured in the film, including Kevin, Stuart, and Bob, before altering the recordings by raising them six semitones in slow motion. That distinctive process gave the characters their instantly recognizable high-pitched voices, helping transform Minionese into one of the most memorable fictional languages in modern animation.

Tim Burton’s surprising contribution to ‘The Fox and the Hound’

Years before audiences associated his name with “Edward Scissorhands,” “Beetlejuice,” and “Batman,” Burton was one of Disney’s young animators learning the craft at the studio. His assignment on “The Fox and the Hound” was Vixey, the gentle female fox who befriends Tod after he is released into the wild.

According to IMDb trivia, Burton’s artistic instincts initially clashed with Disney’s softer visual style. Known even then for favoring darker, Gothic-inspired designs, he found Vixey to be completely outside his comfort zone. Early in production, he mainly handled distant shots of the character while other artists completed her close-up scenes after Burton gradually became more comfortable drawing her.

Burton later joked that he struggled with the film’s realistic four-legged animals, saying his fox drawings looked more like roadkill than Disney characters. Because of those difficulties, his work on Vixey remained limited compared to what he would later accomplish in his own pictures.

Although his contribution went uncredited, “The Fox and the Hound” became an important stepping stone in Burton’s career. The production introduced audiences to a new generation of Disney artists, many of whom would go on to shape modern animation. Burton eventually left the studio to pursue projects that better matched his distinctive creative vision, becoming one of the most influential filmmakers of his generation.

How Snake Plissken Reinvented Kurt Russell

Before “Escape From New York,” Russell was best known for family-friendly films such as “The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes.” Determined to move beyond that image, the 29-year-old actor campaigned hard for the chance to play Snake Plissken, believing the cynical outlaw could help him break away from the clean-cut persona audiences had come to expect.

The idea was far from universally accepted. Studio executives wanted an established action star instead, suggesting names such as Chuck Norris, Nick Nolte, Tommy Lee Jones, and Charles Bronson. Director John Carpenter disagreed, considering some of the candidates too old, too closely associated with previous roles, or simply wrong for the character. Having recently worked with Russell on “Elvis,” Carpenter believed he had found the ideal actor, a view producer Debra Hill also supported.

The gamble paid off. Russell’s portrayal of Snake Plissken introduced audiences to a completely different side of the actor and transformed him into a leading man for action films. He also helped shape the character himself, proposing the now iconic eyepatch and adopting a raspy voice inspired by Clint Eastwood, elements that became inseparable from Snake’s identity.

The success of “Escape From New York” also marked the beginning of one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actor-director collaborations. Russell reunited with Carpenter on cult favorites including “The Thing” and “Big Trouble in Little China,” while his performance as Snake opened the door to later starring roles in pictures such as “Backdraft,” “Tombstone,” and “Stargate.” Looking back on his career, Russell has repeatedly identified “Escape From New York” as his favorite of all his films, with Snake Plissken remaining his favorite character to play.

Christopher Nolan says pre-release criticism of ‘The Odyssey’ misses the point

For months, “The Odyssey” has been at the center of heated online conversations. Casting decisions, modern dialogue, American accents, and the picture’s approach to adapting Homer’s epic have all fueled debate across social media. While those discussions intensified after trailers were released, Nolan does not appear concerned by the reaction.

Asked about the controversy, the filmmaker dismissed the value of judging a movie before audiences have had the chance to experience it. “These conversations that happen before people see the film, they’re always irrelevant,” he said. “Because no one having them knows what the film actually is yet.”

His remarks arrive after the narrative surrounding “The Odyssey” began to shift following its London world premiere. While the title had endured months of criticism over everything from its diverse cast to its stylized interpretation of ancient Greece, the first wave of reviews praised its scale and ambition, with several critics already describing it as a major awards contender.

Written and directed by Nolan, “The Odyssey” stars Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Samantha Morton, Jon Bernthal, Elliot Page, Travis Scott, and Mia Goth. The mythic action epic adapts Homer’s classic tale of the king of Ithaca’s perilous journey home after the Trojan War and is set to open in theaters on July 17.

Debbie McWilliams stands by her vision for James Bond

During an onstage conversation moderated by Variety, an audience member asked McWilliams whether James Bond could one day be portrayed by a woman or a person of color. Her response left little room for interpretation.

“Not in my opinion. No,” she said before explaining why she believes the character should remain the same. “Ian Fleming wrote a character, and that’s the character that stays. That’s what I think. I mean, other people might think otherwise, but I don’t think that.”

McWilliams’ comments arrive as the Bond franchise enters a new era. Following Daniel Craig‘s final appearance as 007 in “No Time to Die,” Amazon MGM Studios is developing the 26th installment with Denis Villeneuve attached to direct and Steven Knight writing the screenplay. Villeneuve has previously said he intends to honor the series’ legacy while introducing a new chapter for the iconic spy.

Although no actor has been officially announced, the search for the next James Bond is expected to begin in earnest after Villeneuve completes his “Dune: Part Three” duties. Reports have indicated that producers are looking for a British actor, with names such as Callum Turner, Harris Dickinson, Jacob Elordi, and Tom Francis frequently mentioned as potential contenders. The film is currently targeting a theatrical release in 2028.

As casting for the next Bond draws closer, the question of who should play the world’s most famous spy remains one of Hollywood’s most closely watched decisions.