Twenty-three seasons is plenty of time to introduce iconic characters, create ships that people are still thinking about, and even throw in a cameo (or fifty) that people will remember. And though NCIS (2003) has done all of that in its run, and also spawned six spin-offs, perhaps the most surprising thing about the show is the amount of talent it has managed to amass when it comes to guest stars, from stars who have gone on to appear in some of the biggest shows on TV, like Stranger Things, to Oscar winners and even a First Lady. 

So, if you’re interested in NCIS lore, here are the biggest, best, and most shocking cameos in the history of the show. Boot up streamers like Hulu and Paramount+ to watch them for yourself. 

Michelle Obama - Season 13, Episode 13

Yes, that’s right, NCIS once had the first lady of the United States make a cameo, and she wasn’t actually acting. Or at least, she wasn’t acting as anyone but herself. Michelle Obama, who was  the then-First Lady, appeared as herself in the Season 13 episode “Déjà Vu,” with her appearance meant to promote her organization supporting veterans, active military, and their families.

Shows like Law & Order: SVU (1999) might be notorious for their celebrity cameos, but no one got the sitting first lady, just NCIS. That’s saying something. And though it’s a little bit propaganda-like, it’s still a pretty solid cameo.

Millie Bobby Brown - Season 12, Episode 6

But Millie Bobby Brown was so young when she conquered our hearts as Eleven on Stranger Things, what do you mean she was on NCIS before? It’s actually not uncommon for child actors to start in procedurals, and she isn’t even the only big name who did it. Abigail Breslin also had a role on NCIS before her breakthrough hit Little Miss Sunshine (2006).

In the Season 12 episode “Parental Guidance Suggested,” the actress plays a kid who kills her mother because she wants her dad to be her full-time parent. Normal procedural stuff, and a pretty solid hint at how good the actress would become.

Glen Powell - Season 10, Episodes 6 and 7

If you’re excited about The Running Man (2025), you might find the fact that Glen Powell, who has become one of Hollywood’s most sought after actors since roles in Top Gun: Maverick (2022) and Twisters (2024), was once just another guest star on NCIS. Powell appeared in two episodes of Season 10, “Shell Shock I and II,” playing the brother of a veteran who was struggling with PTSD. Everyone’s gotta start somewhere.

Pretty solid work from Powell here, who we already know has the range to do both funny and serious.

Jamie Lee Curtis - Season 9 

Oscar winner for Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022) Jamie Lee Curtis also took a turn on NCIS. In fact, she did more than have a cameo, she had her own arc. Curtis appeared in five episodes in Season 9 playing Gibbs’ girlfriend, Samantha Ryan. And we’re not going to deny that the romantic chemistry between Curtis and Mark Harmon actually worked.

But, of course, the show could probably not afford to keep Curtis around for that long, and the character left after a scary ex was released from prison. The one character on this list we wish could have stuck around? Probably.

Billy Dee Williams - Season 10, Episode 5

The legendary Billy Dee Williams, yes, Lando Calrissian himself from the original Star Wars trilogy, also appeared on NCIS. At one point it felt like the show was collecting big cameos like Thanos collects Infinity stones.

Williams appeared in the Season 10 episode "The Namesake," and he came with one of the coolest backstories of this entire list. The character he plays, Leroy Jethro Moore, is the reason for Gibbs’ name. Plus, it’s one of those episodes you can watch out of order and still enjoy.

Zac Efron - Season 3, Episode 13

Just before High School Musical (2006) turned him into a superstar—literally a few weeks before, as it turned out, with the movie airing on Disney Channel soon after his NCIS episode aired—Efron appeared in the Season 3 episode “Deception.” He didn’t have a big role, but fans of the actor and anyone interested in the serendipity of when the episode aired might find this cameo fun.

Efron has also gone on to showcase his range, but this works as an early good sign that he was more than just a pretty face who could sing.

Jesse Plemons - Season 3, Episode 13

Jesse Plemons has become a big-name movie star in the past few years, particularly after his Oscar nomination for The Power of the Dog (2021) and his recent turn opposite Emma Stone in Yorgos Lanthimos' Bugonia (2025). But like a lot of the people on this list, he got his start on procedural TV, ironically in the same episode as Zac Efron.

Yes, Plemons appeared in the Season 3 episode “Deception” playing a teenager who seems to be hiding something from the team. It’s worth checking out if only because he looks so young in this.

Misha Collins - Season 4, Episode 13

Misha Collins would go on to become famous for his role as Castiel in Supernatural (2005), but before that, he appeared on Season 4 of NCIS in the episode “Singled Out,” playing a car thief who finds out that the car he stole has a woman in the trunk.

Not really a highlight for an actor who would go on to become synonymous with a particular character, but it’s still a fun bit of trivia for fans of Collins.

Bob Newhart - Season 8, Episode 12

Yes, Bob Newhart himself also appeared in an episode of NCIS. The comedian and actor, better known for The Bob Newhart Show (1972) and Newhart (1982) made an appearance in the Season 8 episode “Recruited.” He played Dr. Walter Magnus, the former NCIS chief medical examiner who ends up being replaced by Donald “Ducky” Mallard.

Unfortunately, we only see Dr. Magnus come out of retirement to assist in one last case before learning that he has Alzheimer’s. Not exactly the kind of role we’d expect from Newhart, but perhaps that’s exactly why he took it.

Lily Tomlin - Season 9, Episode 3

Lily Tomlin is McGee’s grandmother! Yes, the actress played the grandma of series regular Timothy McGee, who is still a part of the show in Season 23. So hey, of all the characters on this list, she has the biggest chance of showing up again.

Her episode, in case you want to check it out, is Season 9’s “The Penelope Papers.” And even if the character is less funny than Tomlin usually is in shows like Grace and Frankie (2015), I promise, there’s still a spark. 

 When a show launches from the creative mind behind Breaking Bad (2008) and Better Call Saul (2015), you expect big things. Enter Pluribus (stylized as PLUR1BUS), the new sci-fi thriller on Apple TV that asks one unsettling question. What if the thing you're trying to fix is actually something people are choosing to embrace?

Created by Vince Gilligan, Pluribus drops us in a world where most of humanity has been swept up by an otherworldly wave of blissful conformity, and one unhappy romance novelist might be the only person left who sees the cracks. It's sleek, weird, and eerily familiar all at once. The title alone is a head-turner, hinting at themes of unity, assimilation, and the loss of self. It's a show built for exploratory discussions and maybe even a little bit of existential dread.

What Does 'Pluribus' Mean? (And What Is The TV Show About?)

The word "Pluribus" is taken from Latin. In classical usage, plūribus translates to "many," "of many," or "from many." It appears most famously in the phrase E Pluribus Unum, which means "Out of many, one." Until 1956, this phrase served as an unofficial motto of the United States of America. In the context of the show, that phrase takes on a much darker, sci-fi twist, referring to a collective consciousness forming from distinct individuals.

So, what is the show with a complicated name about? Pluribus focuses on Carol Sturka (played by Rhea Seehorn), a historical romance novelist living in Albuquerque, New Mexico, who suddenly finds herself among the very few people who are immune to a mysterious event that has turned nearly everyone else into unwaveringly happy, hive-mind-like beings. And as the most miserable person on Earth must, she has to save the world from happiness.

Gilligan has described the show as his version of a zombie-apocalypse tale. But in his story, the infected aren't mindless gore-monsters, they're blissful and cooperative. In other words, as a viewer, you're being asked to question whether forced harmony is more terrifying than outright chaos. From a theme perspective, the title Pluribus works double time. It evokes both the literal "many" (people) and the transformation into "one" (the collective).

Gilligan told the press that while he liked the American patriotic connotation of "E Pluribus Unum," he intended the series to be global in scope, not just an American allegory. So whether you interpret it as "many becoming one," "out of many we are one," or simply "from the many" growing into something singular and unstoppable, the title is your key to unpacking the show's central issue of individuality vs assimilation.

'Pluribus' Was Secretly Inspired By This Sci-Fi Classic

If you're planning to watch Pluribus, you might want to skip this part, or at least tread carefully. One of the sharper comparisons floating around is to the 1956 film Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and for good reason. That classic depicts an insidious takeover of human society via pods and duplicates. Essentially, people losing their autonomy and becoming part of a homogenized collective. Pluribus takes this concept and reroutes it.

Instead of alien pods replacing humans, a virus or signal infects humans, making them all infallibly happy and aligned. Gilligan has openly acknowledged the "zombie apocalypse drama" framing. But he also said his interest lay in exploring a world in which "everyone was nice" and what that actually implies because a world with no negativity might sound like heaven, but on- screen, it feels like something much darker. What makes Pluribus different from Invasion of the Body Snatchers is that Carol and a handful of others remain immune.

They're the anomaly witnessing change, and serve as the viewpoint for audiences who get to follow their confusion, resistance, and the moral grey zones they uncover. That feeling of existential dread, coupled with Gilligan's trademark storytelling, gives Pluribus its uneasy undercurrent. It's less about alien terror and more about the cost of enforced unity. That's a twist you didn't see in the pods.

Should You Watch 'Pluribus'?

If you're scanning your streaming grid and wondering whether Pluribus is worth the time, here's the breakdown. If you love cerebral sci-fi that blends high concept with low stakes (in the sense of personal, rather than global), this is right up your alley. Fans of television shows like Severance (2022) or even older offerings like The X-Files (1993) will enjoy this show. It's stylish and thoughtful in the way it sets its tone and builds its weird world.

If you prefer your sci-fi fast-paced, heavy on spectacle and light on philosophical unease, you might be in for a slower ride. Some early commentary suggests that the very thing making the show unique (its mood, its ambiguity) could also frustrate viewers who want everything spelled out. But you should absolutely watch Pluribus if you're up for something bold, different, and slightly off-beat.

It may not be popcorn fun viewing, but if you're willing to surrender some comfort in return for big ideas and haunting questions about autonomy, happiness, and human connection, Pluribus is that rare new show you'll want to talk about for hours after you're done watching. The series currently holds the number one spot on the JustWatch streaming charts. 

For as emotionally profound and meaningful as films can be, it’s still a business. Movies need to make money, and sometimes, that just doesn’t happen. It may be because of a bloated production, large marketing costs, tough competition in theaters, or just the general quality of a movie, but when a movie fails to turn a profit, it’s a flop. A failure. A bomb.

2025 has had plenty of flops and bombs, with the recent Tron: Ares (2025) set to cost Disney around $133 million in losses and Christy (2025) having one of the worst box office debuts of all time. Still, not all movies that bomb are bad. As demonstrated by the list below, here are five 2025 box-office flops that deserve a second chance. Several of these films have been charting in and around JustWatch’s Top 100 streamed movies this past week, so it’s clear that audiences are giving them a chance now that they’re out of theaters and on streamers like HBO Max and Prime Video.

Black Bag (2025)

Most spy thrillers tend to be grand affairs. The stakes are always high, and the fate of the world usually hangs in the balance. Black Bag is much more lowkey than you would expect, but that also makes it the perfect thinking man’s spy movie.

There’s an understated wit in Black Bag that will delight fans of more grounded spy flicks like The Killer (2023). From the moment the film starts, we’re presented with mystery after mystery, and thanks to the strong performances by Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett, you’ll constantly be guessing for the film’s 90-minute runtime what their endgame is. Are they truly loyal to one another, or are they manipulating each other for their own gain? Black Bag’s intense focus on witty dialogue may have put off audiences from seeing it back in March, but if you’re game for a spy movie that prioritizes brain over brawn, it is an underrated gem.

Eddington (2025)

Since he’s shifted away from horror, Ari Aster’s output has been polarizing to say the least. Beau Is Afraid (2023) was a nearly three-hour panic attack of Jewish guilt, and his follow-up, Eddington, goes all in on examining the COVID-19 pandemic. These movies are not for everyone, but if you want a frank discussion about social effects of the pandemic, there’s merit to Eddington.

In a lot of ways, Eddington is reminiscent of No Country for Old Men (2017). It’s a bleak examination of the human condition where no one is a good person and everyone is purely out for themselves. While it doesn’t outright condemn or condone any of its characters, given its politically charged nature, you’re meant to draw your own conclusions on whether or not the film has a happy or justified ending. It’s undeniably slow at points, and its protracted two and a half hour runtime definitely may cause some people to check out, but if it clicks with you, it’s a fascinating deep dive of that era of history.

Mickey 17 (2025)

Sci-fi movies tend to be hit or miss at the box office. Their performance usually comes down to how easy it is for audiences to understand their concept, and while Mickey 17’s premise may take some getting used to, once it gets going, it’s a great examination of the human condition.

If you loved Bong Joon Ho’s last big sci-fi epic, Snowpiercer (2013), then you’ll know what to expect from the world of Mickey 17. There’s an unmistakable level of grime and social commentary throughout the movie, showing the sharp class divide between the lower-class crew members of the spaceship and the rich theocrats who run it. We sympathize with Mickey’s plight of just trying to survive, and the frequent grizzly deaths he faces will make audiences feel they’re watching Source Code (2011). It’s a bit tonally uneven, which led to some middling reviews that hurt its box-office chances, but if you’re hunting for a sci-fi movie with a dark sense of humor, consider giving Mickey 17 a shot. 

One Battle After Another (2025)

By all accounts, One Battle After Another is one of the best movies of 2025. Its financial failure has less to do with its quality, but rather, its enormous budget and marketing costs requiring at least $300 million to break even. It could still do it, but all signs point to it being a failure. It’s a shame, too, because One Battle After Another is a gloriously chaotic movie about revolution for a modern audience. It’s a politically charged story, like Eddington, but one that advocates for active resistance rather than quiet contemplation.

In some ways, it’s a modern-day The Battle of Algiers (1966) with the energy of The Wolf of Wall Street (2013). There’s so much going on during the film’s two hour and forty minute runtime, but it expertly finds a way to balance out the very real call to action the film advocates for with the weirdness Paul Thomas Anderson is known for. What other movie would feature a cabal of Santa Claus worshipping white supremists and semen demons? It shouldn’t work as well as it does, but PTA’s expert cinematography and direction make One Battle After Another a movie that needs to be experienced.

Thunderbolts* (2025)

Oh how the mighty have fallen. Not even a decade ago, Marvel was the standard bearer of box-office success, but 2025 has featured not one, but two, financial disappointments for the once almighty brand. Of the two, though, Thunderbolts* really should have done better than it did.

A lot of the problems that face modern Marvel movies is front and center with Thunderbolts*. There’s a lot of homework that fans need to do to fully understand what’s going on. But once you get over that, Marvel’s answer to The Suicide Squad (2021) is a thematically rich examination of trauma and depression that is surpsingly honest for a Marvel movie, to the point where it feels as dark as other bleak psychological dramas like Fight Club (1999). Even if you barely know anything about Thunderbolts* large cast going into it, you’ll grow to care for each of them, especially the film’s breakout star, Bob. If you’re been looking for a superhero movie that has something to say, Thunderbolts* is a breath of fresh air. 

Shakespeare adaptations are everywhere if you look closely. Even the people who didn't study the poet and playwright's work likely know that The Lion King (1994) is heavily inspired by Hamlet. Most people have at least heard of the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet and generally tie the star-crossed lovers trope to the doomed teenagers. With the release of Hamnet (2025) coming up, the movie based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel of the same name is meant to tell the story of how Hamlet came to be. 

I've already got tissues prepared in my bag because I couldn't even watch the trailer without choking up. So, if you're anything like me and need something lighthearted as a palate cleanser before (or after), here are five fun Shakespeare adaptations, as well as where you can watch them on HBO Max, Prime Video, and more.

Romeo + Juliet (1996)

I can hear the outcry coming from all over the world, but hear me out: Nobody does a tragedy with as much sparkle and joy as Baz Luhrmann. And as someone with an MFA in English Lit who studied Shakespeare extensively, trust me when I say, no one hates the story of Romeo and Juliet the way I do. But as an even bigger fan of Moulin Rouge (2001), I know that tragedies can sometimes be deeply memorable when Luhrmann is at the helm.

And if there's one version of the tragedy that sticks the landing while providing ample moments to swoon over, it's Romeo + Juliet, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. The modernized, beachy version of the story brings levity to the tale, and Luhrmann's inimitable directorial choices make every beat look and feel dazzling. It's the type of adaptation that cements how modernizing something can be hugely impactful, and it also has one of the best original soundtracks to date. If you want a modernized version of the tale, Romeo + Juliet can’t be beat. 

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

On a happier note, who doesn't love everything that was born from 10 Things I Hate About You, the single greatest adaptation of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew? The hate-to-love romance that balloons into something bigger between Julia Stiles' Kat and the late Heath Ledger's Patrick is everything that a rom-com should be—fun and full of heart.

It's not every '90s or early 2000s movie that holds up, but 10 Things I Hate About You is a treasure for countless reasons. The source material is one of Shakespeare's most influential stories, yes, but so much of the reason it became an instant classic is because of the cast and relatable storylines. Perfect for anyone who loves a good bad boy, and You've Got Mail (1998). 

She's the Man (2006)

Based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, She's the Man is the kind of roaringly hilarious comedy that still holds up so well that it's a little shocking. The brilliant performance that Amanda Bynes delivers as her character pretends to be both Viola and her twin brother, Sebastian, is admirable on every level, but the romance also sizzles in a way that's an absolute blast to watch, even today.

Interestingly, rewatching the movie recently also made me realize how progressive it was back in the day, showcasing that sports shouldn't discriminate based on gender. Let's go, Illyria! Every cast member brings their A-game the entire time, making it the kind of adaptation that's going to continue holding up. If you love stories with mistaken identities and slow-burn romances that are equal parts funny and vulnerable, She's the Man is a must-watch. 

Shakespeare in Love (1998)

Shakespeare in Love may not be a direct retelling or adaptation of the playwright's works, but it's a surprisingly gorgeous romantic drama that follows Joseph Fiennes as Shakespeare himself while he falls for Gwyneth Paltrow's Viola. Like Hamnet, the film acts as a showcase of how Romeo and Juliet came to be and features characters from his notable works, like the obvious, Viola from Twelfth Night. 

The film's critical and academic praise make it an incredible must-watch for anyone who's interested in Shakespeare, but especially for those who might need something light after Hamnet. More than anything, it can be fun to sit in front of the screen and point to all the Easter eggs, like the Leonardo DiCaprio Rick Dalton meme in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019).

Warm Bodies (2013)

If you love classic stories reimagined with zombies like Pride and Prejudice and Zombies (2016), then look no further than Warm Bodies, an adaptation of Romeo and Juliet with a happy ending. Starring Nicholas Hoult and Teresa Palmer, Warm Bodies is a clever, fun, and engrossing twist on the tragedy, making it a star-crossed lovers story about the living and the (un)dead.  

It's campy and delightful, but surprisingly heartfelt and significant in its approach to unite the two species. The story sticks the landing, and the twist makes it one that'll definitely provide more squeals and butterflies as opposed to tears. As a bonus, it's the type of horror movie that scaredy-cats can also handle.

Wes Craven stands out as one of the most influential filmmakers of all time. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, and initially working as a college professor before shifting into the world of film, Craven quickly became one of the most accomplished horror filmmakers ever. With a willingness to go absolutely brutal as well as subversively hilarious, Craven showcased the versatility of horror in an era where the genre wasn’t as respected. 

It’s hard to imagine what the horror landscape would look like without him, even discounting his creation of the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise and Scream franchise. In the generation since, modern hits like Sinners (2025), Weapons (2025), and The Black Phone 2 (2025) have all pulled from the same creative playbook that Craven helped define. Here are the 10 best Wes Craven movies every fan should check out and where you can find them on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.

10. The Last House on the Left (1972)

One of the harshest directorial debuts in cinematic history, Wes Craven’s The Last House on the Left established him as one of cinema's premier horror filmmakers from the get-go. A revenge horror film that focuses on hyper-violence from multiple perspectives, The Last House on the Left is an absolutely brutal film. Its depictions of gruesome violence and sexual assault make it one of the most purposefully sickening horror movies ever released, with Craven relishing in the visceral nature of brutality for great effect—both as a means of making the central villains detestable and to force the audience to reckon with the two mild-mannered parents who decide to lash out at their daughter’s attackers with far more brutality than anyone could have expected.

Lacking almost any charm or humanity, The Last House on the Left is an early indicator of Craven’s artistic capabilities as a filmmaker. If you loved sick twists on the horror genre like The Audition (2000) or ruminations on the banality of evil like The Strangers (2008), then The Last House on the Left is worth checking out. However, audiences who are hoping for any sweetness to break up the horror (as in Craven’s later films) should be forewarned that this is a far more gruesome and cynical Craven than most of his other films would suggest, which is why it ranks in tenth place.

9. The Hills Have Eyes (1977)

Like The Last House on the Left, Craven’s influentially gruesome The Hills Have Eyes is a reminder of just how brutal the director could be with his grim view on humanity. Based on a Scottish legend about a cannibalistic clan in the 16th century, The Hills Have Eyes puts the Carter family on a desperate struggle to survive against a clan of cave-dwelling marauders who slaughter passing travelers. The film draws plenty of inspiration from brutal slashers like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974), but with a deeper sense of empathy and an acidic sense of humor amid all of the horrifying content.

Not for audiences who prefer their horror with more atmospheric supernatural scares, The Hills Have Eyes is an unforgettable film with truly unsettling moments of gore and assault that are still shocking decades later. The Hills Have Eyes (2006) tried to replicate the gruesome magic of this film years later, but the original remains a vicious movie focused on the breaking of average people and the brutality that follows.

8. Vampire in Brooklyn (1995)

A cult classic horror comedy that leans more into humor, Vampire in Brooklyn has enough unique touches to make this Dracula (1931) interpretation set in New York City especially bizarre and strangely compelling. Eddie Murphy and Angela Bassett make for an engaging riff on the same monster/woman connection that made films like Bram Stroker's Dracula (1992) and Nosferatu (2024) famous, with both performers showcasing their charms in a tense dynamic. 

Craven leans harder into comedy than ever in Vampire in Brooklyn while retaining just enough of his subtle societal commentary to give the film a subversive core. A creative descendant of Blackula (1972) and a quiet ancestor to Sinners and Vampires vs. the Bronx (2020), Vampire in Brooklyn is a must-see for fans of horror comedies like Shaun of the Dead (2004) or Heart Eyes (2025), but it’s not a great fit for audiences looking for ultradramatic material.

7. The People Under the Stairs (1991)

A brutal film that fuses horror with harsh social satire in a similar way to Parasite (2019), The People Under the Stairs is a terrific and raw horror movie with a mean sense of humor. Focusing on a would-be robber who discovers the wealthy target of his crime is a monstrous couple who have trapped a number of now feral children in the buildings they own, the film feels like a 1990s riff on the same horrifying themes about society and the wage gap as seen in The Hills Have Eyes.

Anyone who didn’t like Hereditary’s (2018) emotional but gonzo storytelling should avoid this film, but for those who did, know that The People Under the Stairs is one of the most intelligent entries in Wes Craven’s filmography. Vicious and with a grim sense of justice that’s just as bleak as the comedy in the film, The People Under the Stairs was a surprise hit when it landed in theaters and remains one of Craven’s darkest social satires.

6. Scream 2 (1997)

As the second film in the deeply influential and subversive slasher series, Scream 2 can’t quite match the original, but it remains a compelling commentary on the nature of movie sequels nonetheless. Scream 2 picks up after the events of the first film and focuses on a new Ghostface killer stalking the college campus, where recurring series lead Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) is attempting to move on with her life.

With a surprisingly morally complicated core and exploration of redemption and grief, Scream 2 benefits from the same tight writing and clever scares that made the original so memorable. While it’s not quite as good as the other openly meta horror films that Craven made, Scream 2 is perfect for anyone who enjoyed the self-aware horror stylings of The Blackening (2023) or I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025). 

5. Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)

One of the most meta-comedies of all time, Wes Craven’s New Nightmare is so brazen in its approach to fourth-wall breaking comedy and commentary that it demands your respect. Focusing on Wes Craven and Heather Langenkamp—the creator of the franchise and the star of the first film about Freddy Krueger—New Nightmare posits that the film series had been containing a nightmarish force for years but now reality is threatened by the franchise closing out with the then-final film, Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991).

Hilarious in its Deadpool-esque sense of comedy and clever in its horrific moments of blurring the lines between reality, New Nightmare is a wildly clever movie that isn’t for people who don’t like meta-commentary or fourth-wall breaking parodies with a layer of social commentary like Rick and Morty (2013) or Team America: World Police (2004).

4. The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988)

A creepy and unsettling film that leans more into mystery and atmosphere, The Serpent and the Rainbow is one of Wes Craven’s creepiest films. Featuring an interpretation of voodoo practices that doesn’t feel hokey or cheap, the film focuses on an anthropologist who ends up in the thrall of a nightmarish Vodu priest who steals people’s souls and turns them into his zombie servants. 

With a sense of visual style and grimy horror that feels similar to Sam Raimi’s work on Drag Me to Hell (2009), The Serpent and the Rainbow is one of Craven’s most overtly creepy films, with a tense tone that never betrays the special-effects-heavy elements. While its approach to the supernatural can be dated, there’s a seriousness to it that lacks the kind of campy comedy Craven could have otherwise brought to the film. Definitely not for the audiences who prefer Craven’s sillier fare, The Serpent and the Rainbow is an unforgettable experiment in atmosphere. 

3. Red Eye (2005)

The closest Wes Craven ever got to making an Alfred Hitchcock movie, Red Eye is an underrated classic in Craven’s filmography. Set in the closed environment of an airplane mid-flight, the film stars a young Cillian Murphy as a dangerous killer who lures Rachel McAdams’ Lisa Reisert into a false sense of security before revealing his true nature.

A tight and tense thriller, Red Eye is perfect for audiences who enjoyed the clever twists and turns of Drop (2025). Bolstered by a strong script and great lead performances, Red Eye is a pulpy little horror film that still finds room for Craven’s trademark fusion of subtextual satire and subversive horror riffs. While it may not be what audiences looking for splatter gore like The Evil Dead (1981) want from the filmmaker, Red Eye is a well executed, tense thriller that audiences just don’t get anymore. 

2. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

One of the most iconic slashers of the 20th century, A Nightmare on Elm Street remains one of the best examples of what made Wes Craven so legendary in the horror genre. Introducing audiences to the iconic Freddy Krueger, A Nightmare on Elm Street is an ambitiously produced horror film that turned the dreamscape into a killing field.

Full of creative kills and amazing practical effects, the movie grounds it all in the trauma of a young woman, Nancy, who struggles to reckon not just with the murderous monster stalking her dreams but also a world that lives in denial of the trauma and horror around it. Not for audiences who prefer their scary movies rooted in real life, A Nightmare on Elm Street is a visual treat for horror fans and a dream scary season night flick. It’s a perfect peer for other stone-cold classics like Halloween (1978) and Friday the 13th (1980).

1. Scream (1996)

The most subversive turn in horror history, Scream is shockingly good the first time around and still effective decades after it first hit theaters. Scream is the ultimate self-aware slasher, a fun riff on the genre with a tendency to play with genre rules to horrifying effect, including an opening sequence twist that upends every expectation fresh-eyed viewers have coming into the film for the first time.

Just as much a commentary on the horror genre as it is on American society’s need to be famous, Scream is quietly brilliant and endlessly entertaining. Bursting at the seams with unexpected comedy and deceptively deep performances, the film’s tight script is only bolstered by Craven’s amazing direction. An ideal blend of satire and seriousness, with a climactic twist for the ages that rivals the likes of Psycho (1960), Scream remains one of the best horror movies ever made and the highlight of Wes Craven’s impressive career. 

While trashy reality TV shows are a staple of the US, the Love Island franchise actually originated in the United Kingdom. Before every day but ridiculously hot Islanders were shoved into a villa to "find love," the series started with celebrities doing the very same thing in Celebrity Love Island (2005). After just two seasons and a decade-long interlude, the show ditched its celebrity premise for the common folk and spawned the franchise behemoth that it is now. 

If you're just getting roped into the drama, there is a lot to parse through. From the original UK series to the many international spin-offs, your best bet when it comes to tackling this franchise is release date order. This guide will break down everything you need to know. So, if you can't get enough of watching a group of strangers couple up and (probably) disappoint you in the long run, here is how to watch Love Island in order on Peacock, Hulu, and more.

Celebrity Love Island (2005-2006)

Truthfully, Celebrity Love Island isn't mandatory watching. In fact, most people outside of the UK probably didn't even realize it exists. The premise is what you'd expect from the series, but with single D-list celebrities as Islanders. The majority of them are models (Are we really surprised?) with a few actors, singers, and even Big Brother UK (2000) winner Kate Lawler thrown in the mix.

Patrick Kielty and Kelly Brook hosted in Season 1 before Fearne Cotton took Brook's hosting spot in Season 2. Despite dropping "Celebrity" from its title in the second season, Celebrity Love Island never quite found its audience. Disappointing ratings resulted in its cancellation. Still, it's a fun, trashy time for anyone wanting to see where the franchise began. While people outside of the UK might not know the show's celebrity cast, with the show's format, you don't really need to.

Love Island UK (2015-Present)

Nearly a decade after Celebrity Love Island's cancellation, the series received a revival, this time trading celebrities for everyday people looking for love and to test their competition skills. Familiar ITV2 presenter Caroline Flack started off as the host before her tragic death in 2020, which resulted in Laura Whitmore taking over the position until the mantle passed to Maya Jama in 2022.

While Love Island UK has faced its share of controversies, from concerns about diversity and body shaming to abusive male contestants and mental health, it remains a staple of British pop culture, especially among the millennial and Gen Z crowd. The unique mash-up of dating show meets reality competition series keeps the content fresh. Not to mention, all the fights, relationships, and cringeness provide hours upon hours of silly drama to get lost in. If you like other tropical-set reality TV shows that make dating their central premise, like Too Hot To Handle (2020) and Temptation Island (2019), then you'll adore Love Island and its many spin-offs.

Love Island USA (2019-Present)

For many Americans, 2019's Love Island, also known as Love Island USA, was their first exposure to the franchise. Nearly identical to the flagship British series, Love Island poses the burning question (apparently) on everyone's mind: What happens when hot singles get confined to a luxury villa and are forced to couple up for a shot at $100,000? The answer comes in the form of binge-worthy seasons stuffed with drama, betrayals, and all the expected controversies that go hand in hand with reality TV.

While Ariana Madix currently hosts the series, anyone starting from the beginning will get to know former hosts Arielle Vandenberg and Sarah Hyland, the latter of whom Modern Family (2009) fans will recognize. While there isn't much difference between Love Island USA and Love Island UK, those looking for more genuine connections might have better luck in the latter. Whether it's a cultural difference or not, the USA contestants tend to lean more toward competition and strategic partnerships as opposed to finding love… or even real connections. 

Love Island Spin-Offs Available In The US

If you can't get enough of Love Island, you're probably eagerly scouring the internet in search of more international versions and spin-offs. The news here is both good and bad. While the show has upwards of 20 international spin-offs, at the time of writing, only Love Island Australia, Love Island South Africa, and Love Island España, in addition to the aforementioned Love Island UK, are available to stream in the US. However, there are a few supplemental spin-off series that can help fill the void.

Love Island Games, for example, offers audiences more time with previous Islanders, including some from international series. Love Island: All-Stars offers something similar, bringing back fan-favorite (and not so fan-favorite) Islanders for a second shot at finding love. And if you're one of those people who likes to check in with contestants after each season, Love Island: Beyond the Villa offers a more intimate look into the lives of various Islanders after they leave the show.

• Love Island Australia (2018-Present)
• Love Island South Africa (2021)
• Love Island España (2021-2022)
• Love Island Games (2023-Present) 
• Love Island: All-Stars (2024-Present)
• Love Island: Beyond the Villa (2025-Present)

Love Island International Spin-Offs (Not Available To Watch In The US)

As mentioned, there are a multitude of international Love Island spin-offs. However, the ones listed below aren't available to stream within the US. While that's certainly a blow to true completionists or anyone wanting to experience the series through the lens of a different culture, its possible availability will change in the future. With Love Island still a juggernaut in the reality TV space, you can't rule it out completely. After all, RuPaul's Drag Race (2009) has the majority of its international spin-offs all available on WoW Presents Plus. 

• Love Island – Heiße Flirts & wahre Liebe (2017-Present)
• Love Island Sweden (2018-Present)
• Love Island Norway (2018-Present)
• Love Island Suomi (2018-Present)
• Love Island Nederland & België (2019-Present)
• Love Island Hungary (2019)
• Love Island. Wyspa miłości (2019-Present)
• Love Island France (2020-2023)
• Love Island Italia (2021)
• Love Island Canada (2021-2023)
• Love Island Česko & Slovensko (2021-Present)
• Love Island Denmark (2021-Present)
• Love Island Greece (2022)
• Love Island Malta (2023-Present)
• Love Island Albania (2023)
• Love Island România (2023)
• Love Island Israel (2024)
• Love Island Nigeria (TBA)
• Love Island NZ (TBA)

Wednesday Addams, like the rest of the Addamses, became an icon from the moment she stepped onto our screens. From the second we heard Andrew Gold's theme song for The Addams Family (1964) and started snapping our fingers right alongside the characters, they've been a comfort to so many of us and for a wide variety of reasons. There's something ridiculously hot about most versions of Lurch. Gomez and Morticia Addams are literally marriage goals, and Wednesday Addams is the kid you want in your corner. 

Since I was a kid, no matter the time of day or what I was doing, if the Addams Family was on, I sat in front of the screen, eyes glued to the TV. With multiple adaptations to look back on, here are all the Wednesday Addams, ranked, as well as which movie to watch them in on HBO Max and more. 

7. Nicole Fugere - The New Addams Family (1998-1999)

It's certainly not Nicole Fugere's—or the rest of the cast members' fault—but The New Addams Family and Addams Family Reunion came a little too quickly after Addams Family Values (1993), and sadly, it never managed to evoke the same sense of comfort. Or, perhaps in some cases, this is a Spider-Man scenario, where we all have our favorites and the one we're most attached to, so any new one simply doesn't work. But the overall production value left very little room for the characters to shine, and that's a large part of what makes the family's history so engrossing.

We aren't always watching to see what zany thing the macabre family will get up to, but we're watching to see the characters' journeys in order to learn more about them. We're watching for those quiet moments that we'll maybe be able to quote or add on as a meme. And these adaptations, despite the best efforts from the cast, unfortunately missed the mark. 

6. Debi Derryberry - The Addams Family (1992-1993)

As an animated version, The Addams Family (1992) should've worked, but it was simply okay. Debi Derryberry's Wednesday Addams is a bit less dark than the character usually is, and the liveliness of the actual cartoon itself stripped away some of the darkness that makes the titular family as memorable as they are. If it were tonally more similar to shows like Scooby-Doo: Where Are You? (1969), we'd have a winner in our hands.

But for the sake of nostalgia, this version of the story is still worth watching solely to get another twist on the beloved family's antics. The type of animation is also one that we rarely see nowadays, so that adds an extra layer of charm that can be intriguing to new viewers who just want a different point of view. 

5. Cindy Henderson - The Addams Family (1973)

Believe it or not, once upon a time, Wednesday Addams wore pink. That's right, the tiny gothic queen wasn't always decked out in black, and The Addams Family miniseries from the '70s is proof of this fact. She first made an appearance in an episode titled "Wednesday Is Missing" in The New Scooby-Doo Movies (1972) where crossover movies and TV shows were happening long before the DCEU and network television made it a broadcast event. 

Henderson's version of Wednesday still had the character's classic spunky attitude with a slight twist in clothing as we know it. As the first to voice the character in an animated format, Henderson set the stage for how things can be and delivered a memorable character journey in the short runtime. 

4. Chloë Grace Moretz - The Addams Family (2019)

Like the 1973 animated series, everything about the recent animated films, The Addams Family (2019) and The Addams Family 2 (2021), should've worked, especially given the amazing actors lending their voices. However, the story unfortunately fumbled through strange choices and not enough risks being taken to add a darkness to the story that could still keep the macabre elements from the live-action features. 

Still, Chloë Grace Moretz, like Derryberry, does an incredible job with the voice work—as all the actors do, like Oscar Isaac as Gomez Addams, yes please—but the sprightly nature doesn't match the edge that's generally necessary. However, it is a good film to show kids who might not be ready for the live-action versions but still want something lightly spooky and fun.

3. Lisa Loring - The Addams Family (1964-1965)

For many of us, the late Lisa Loring was our introduction to Wednesday Addams, and for this reason, we'll always have a soft spot for her performance. At the same time, the original series sets the blueprint for how darkness and humor can marry in an intricate dance that'll always hit especially hard for those who appreciate unique in-between genres. Light and dark in a way that's perfectly balanced, Loring's Wednesday is an absolute delight.

She is a younger version of the character, ridiculously spunky, oddly sweet, and surprisingly layered. Long before Jenna Ortega's dance to The Cramps' "Goo Goo Muck" became a TikTok trend, Lisa Loring had one of her own while trying to teach Lurch. She infused the character with so much personality that it's also admirable how each of the Wednesdays who followed in her path did their own thing.

2. Jenna Ortega - Wednesday (2022-Present)

Jenna Ortega's campy approach in Netflix's Wednesday makes her version the darkest one we have yet, and every beat of her embodiment is incredible. While the show is relatively safe for scaredy-cats, it's still much spookier than other versions, and its inclusion of a lot more supernatural elements might not be as favorable for people who prefer a more tame version of gothic horror. 

Still, Ortega had big shoes to fill when signing on to the role, and she did so without trying to be Christina Ricci or anyone who came before her, but rather, she makes the character entirely her own. She deep dives into the darkest parts of Wednesday's psyche and also adds an incredibly subtle layer of softness that touches on her innate loyalty perfectly. Wednesday is perfect for viewers who prefer campy horror and shows like The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018).

1. Christina Ricci - The Addams Family (1991)

There will never be another Wednesday Addams like Christina Ricci's, and that's okay because everything she brought to the role was so niche and so perfect for those of us who grew up in the '90s. In every way where it matters, The Addams Family (1991) and Addams Family Values are perfect films, and it's largely because of the cast and how they increased the darkness and touched on the family's love for one another.

The titular family is so comforting because of their loyalty to one another, and no one shows it quite like the brutal little weirdo, Wednesday. How she calls out colonialism and everyone's foolishness is literally, always and forever, the biggest mood. It's what makes her such a legendary character because we're all thinking what she says out loud. Bonus points if you're also the eldest daughter—this version nails that bit in a way that's so accurate, it's always hilarious. 

Ever since It: Welcome to Derry (2025) debuted on HBO and HBO Max, questions about Pennywise's gender have resurfaced. The answer isn't simple, because neither is Stephen King's most terrifying creation. While Pennywise is commonly referred to as "he," King's novel, on which the series and past films are based, reveals a far stranger truth.

"It" has no gender at all. That ambiguity isn't just a quirk of King's imagination. It's an essential part of what makes Pennywise so unsettling. Beneath the greasepaint smile and jaunty red balloons is an ancient entity that doesn't obey the rules of human biology, identity, or morality. The clown's gendered appearance is nothing more than a mask designed to draw its victims closer before the horror beneath finally reveals itself.

On the surface, it's easy to assume Pennywise is male. The creature's most familiar form, the clown with sharp teeth and an unnerving grin, is consistently described with masculine pronouns throughout It. King even gave it a human alias (Bob Gray) to make the supernatural creature appear deceptively ordinary.

There's also the matter of presentation. Clowns in mid-century America, the era in which It's main events occur, were almost exclusively male performers. By choosing that form, the creature taps into a kind of social camouflage by appearing as something recognizable, even comforting, to children before turning that comfort into dread.

King has said that Pennywise represents the thing that kids fear most, since clowns occupy that uneasy space between playfulness and menace. Within that performance, a masculine identity makes narrative sense. The clown isn't a man, but it needs to pretend to be one in order to feed. Still, the illusion only holds until the final confrontation, when the Losers' Club finally sees what Pennywise really is.

The Truth Of Pennywise

In the final chapters of It (1986), the Losers' Club ventures into Derry's sewers and faces the creature in its "true" form, which is a massive, spider-like being whose shape is merely the closest thing human minds can comprehend. The scene is also featured in both film adaptations, It released in 1990 and the more recent It  (2017). It's here that King begins to complicate our understanding of gender entirely.

When the Losers find eggs in the creature's lair, the discovery hints at reproduction, a trait culturally associated with females. But King quickly undercuts that idea. These aren't the offspring of a "mother" in any human sense. They're the byproduct of something alien, a reflection of It's ability to create life (or death) without sexual reproduction.

In King's broader mythology, which includes The Dark Tower series, Pennywise is not truly a living organism at all, but an ancient cosmic entity from the Macroverse that exists beyond time, space, and physical form. That makes it impossible to categorize using human gender labels.

That means the spider body is a symbolic projection of its essence, not an accurate one. So while the Losers perceive something that looks female, Pennywise isn't either. It's a shapeless energy given form only by what the human mind can stand to see.

Gender As A Tool Of Fear

The most compelling reading of Pennywise's genderlessness isn't biological but psychological. Throughout It, the creature's primary weapon is its ability to become whatever terrifies its victims most. For Eddie Kaspbrak, that's disease; for Beverly Marsh, the specter of domestic abuse; for Bill Denbrough, the loss of a brother. For Derry as a whole, it's a clown, a symbol of innocence corrupted.

That same principle extends to gender. By presenting as male, Pennywise evokes a type of authority and trust familiar to the children of 1950s Maine. The friendly adult entertainer, the father figure, the man in charge. The betrayal of that trust is part of what makes the horror so deep.

The creature's shape-shifting not only reflects fear in many forms, but also society's tendency to assign gender to good and evil. Pennywise breaks those binaries completely. It's neither father nor mother, it's everything people dread, distilled into one shifting presence.

This fluidity has fascinated critics for decades. Many have compared It to John Carpenter's The Thing (1982), another story in which identity and biology collapse under the weight of something unknowable. Yet King's take is distinct. By giving fear itself a clown's face, he turns performance into predation and gender into theater.

Why Pennywise's Gender Matters

Viewers in 2025 may ask if Pennywise's gender should even matter. In the literal sense, it shouldn't. The creature's power doesn't depend on any human category. But symbolically, it tells us something vital about the genre. Gender in horror often defines how monsters are read.  Male villains embody control and violence, while female monsters are linked to seduction or corruption. Pennywise defies all of that.

By existing outside of gender, it becomes a pure embodiment of fear—an amorphous predator that reflects our collective anxieties back at us. This reading is especially timely as HBO's It: Welcome to Derry expands the mythology. The series, set decades before King's novel, will explore how the creature adapts to new eras and social contexts.That makes its lack of fixed identity all the more potent.

Pennywise could appear as anyone or anything Derry's people subconsciously invite. In that sense, Pennywise's gender isn't a mystery to solve but a mirror. The form it takes in the series, which is currently at number four on the JustWatch streaming charts, says more about the people who see it than the creature itself. The show is perfect for anyone who is curious about the creature's gender or lack thereof.

Do you have a popular franchise that’s run out of ideas? Are you desperate to create a new entry, but don’t know what it could possibly be about or where it could be set?  May I make a suggestion… send it to space! 

I mean, why not? Tons of other franchises already have, and yes, there’s been mixed results, but whether they’re famous for being great or infamous for being horrible, they all remain weirdly iconic in their own right. Oddly enough, the phenomenon is especially popular in the horror genre, where many of your favorite villains were blasted into space (and often the future) to pursue some intergalactic carnage. 

From the Friday the 13th to Fast & Furious series, if you want to watch some fantastic (or fantastically bad) franchises that went to space, check out the list below. Streamers like HBO Max, Apple TV, and more will let you watch these misadventures now. 

Jason X (2001)

In 2001, the Friday the 13th franchise tried to answer the age-old question: What exactly do you do with killers like Michael Myers and Jason Voorhees, who seemingly can’t die? In Jason X we learn the answer is that you cryogenically freeze him and keep him frozen for eternity. Well, that was the plan… until, in the distant future, a group of space humans travel back to Earth, find Jason, and unfreeze him aboard their spaceship. 

Yes, it’s wild. But really, what else do you expect from Friday the 13th? After all, the previous entry Jason Goes Hell (1993) featured demon-worm-monsters, so honestly, why not go to space? Plus, Jason X is super campy, kitschy, and tacky, which in modern times comes off as incredibly fun and endearing. If you enjoyed the wildness of Freddy vs. Jason (2003), you’ll love Jason X. 

Dracula 3000 (2004)

Dracula got a jolt of modernity in 2000 with Dracula 2000, which brought the iconic vampire into (then) present-day London. Four years later, the world got Dracula 3000, which thrust the vampire into the year 3000 aboard a spaceship. In theory, it makes sense, since vampires are immortal (assuming they never go out in daylight, come near garlic, or get a wooden stake through their heart). 

But this straight-to-video romp is completely incoherent and absurd. Still, its awfulness is also its strength. For starters, if you know that infamous NSFW line from Shark Attack 3 (2002), you’ll definitely love the… um… “unique” dialogue in Dracula 3000. It’s also great for anyone who loves those cheesy Syfy Channel original movies since it absolutely feels like it was intended to be one.  

Leprechaun 4: In Space (1996)

Many franchises that went to space became unintentional comedies. But the Leprechaun franchise knew exactly what it was doing. The cult hit always knew it was a comedy, but Leprechaun 4: In Space, which takes place on a spaceship in the year 2096, leaned heavily into humor. It features a mind-controlled drag queen commando, a mutated doctor becoming a spider, and a space princess, all on top of already having Lubdan the Leprechaun (Warwick Davis) as the antagonist. 

While going to space is always an odd choice for any franchise, Leprechaun already stars a mythical Irish being as its lead villain, so why not go to space? Clearly, realism was never important for the franchise anyway. After going to space, everyone’s favorite evil Leprechaun found himself in the hood, leading to even more madness. If you love horror movies that are totally aware of how stupid they are, like Hansel & Gretel Get Baked (2013), this is the film for you. 

Hellraiser: Bloodline (1996)

Not all outer space horror movies have the audacity of Jason X or Leprechaun 4. In Hellraiser: Bloodline, Pinhead is brought to space in the year 2127 with the hopes of finally killing him for good. There’s a really great twist at the end, and as far as horror franchises that go to space, Bloodline is probably the most straight-laced, serious of them all. It doesn’t go for campy bombast, and instead tries to remain a true horror film. 

Because of that, it’s more similar to proper sci-fi horror movies, like Event Horizon (1997), than it is to other late-sequel slasher films. If you love the creepy, disturbing vibe of Hellraiser (1987) or the fascinating setting that space provides, be sure to check out Hellraiser: Bloodline.

Godzilla vs. SpaceGodzilla (1994)

In Godzilla vs. SpaceGodzilla we learn that Godzilla’s DNA made its way to space thanks to Biollante (long story, don’t ask). There, it was irradiated by a black hole, creating SpaceGodzilla, who grows himself a giant crystalline comet and flies through space to destroy Earth. Why and how? Who knows. But considering that the modern MonsterVerse involves a supernatural subterranean Earth filled with giant creatures, I’d say this isn’t exactly the franchise to be asking questions like “What?”, “How?”, or “Why?” Instead, just enjoy the madness of big monsters beating each other up. 

Plus, if you’re a Godzilla fan, why wouldn’t you watch this Heisei era classic? It’s also perfect for anyone who loves those wonderfully wild late-80s/early-90s practical monster effects, like in the remake of The Blob (1988). 

Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space (1972)

In 1970, the Josie and the Pussycats cartoon premiered. Based on the Archie comic of the same name, the show followed the iconic girl band as they toured the world and got mixed up in capers and hijinks. But after the series concluded in 1972, it was followed by the spin-off Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space. As the title implies, the show follows the band as they accidentally fall into a spaceship and blast off into outer space. 

Of all the comic franchises to send to space, Josie and the Pussycats is easily the most outlandish and unnecessary, creating some strange blend of The Powerpuff Girls (1998) and Space Ghost (1966). If you love the idea of banging your tambourine while battling aliens, this is the show for you. It’s also perfect for fans who enjoyed the wild eccentricity of the 2001 Josie and the Pussycats movie.

Airplane II: The Sequel (1982)

Airplane! (1980) is a bit of everything. It’s a spoof, a parody, and a satire, all mixed into one, lampooning both the air industry and Hollywood blockbusters like Airport (1970) and Jaws (1975). The sequel took it to the next level, creating a seriously silly plot about a commercial space shuttle that’s taking tourists to the moon. 

Honestly, out of every franchise on the list, going to space makes the most sense for Airplane! since the entire point of the franchise is to be as loony and ridiculous as possible. If you love madcap parodies like The Naked Gun (1988) or Scary Movie (2000), then you already know the type of humor you’re in for when you watch Airplane II. 

Critters 4 (1992)

Leprechaun 4, Hellraiser: Bloodline… and Critters 4. For some reason, the fourth entry seems to be the sweet spot for horror franchises to launch themselves into space. In the year 2045, a salvage crew comes across the critter eggs in space. Naturally, after bringing them aboard their ship, the critters hatch, madness ensues, and a joyous horror comedy emerges. 

Plus, Critters 4 stars Oscar-nominated actress Angela Bassett and Tony-nominated actor Terrence Mann. How did a B-movie get such star power? The vibe of the entire Critters franchise is more comedy-focused, similar to Gremlins (1984), so it’s perfect for anyone who loves horror comedies. 

Amityville in Space (2022)

The Amityville franchise has taken a very dark and weird turn over the last decade, spawning films such as Amityville Death Toilet (2023) and Amityville Bigfoot (2024). These no-budget films are the types of movies you need to watch late at night with a big group of friends. 

In 2022, the franchise went to space with Amityville in Space because, of course, it did. It takes place in the future after the Amityville house was lifted from Earth and sucked into a black hole. Now, a team of future space people must discover the hauntings within the iconic house as it floats through the vacuum of space. Luckily for everyone, the movie is streaming for free on Tubi, so you too can experience this clickbait brainrot without spending a penny! 

F9 (2021)

Yes, in 2021 the Fast & Furious franchise briefly ended up in space in F9. Tej (Ludacris) and Roman (Tyrese Gibson) have to take a rocket car to space to crash into a satellite and destroy its capabilities of hacking into global weapons systems. Look, is it stupid? Yes. But also, if you're the type of person who has stuck with the Fast & Furious franchise until its ninth movie, you probably don’t care.

Considering the movie made over $700 million at the box office, it’s clear that most audiences were on-board for whatever hijinks Vin Diesel could think of. If you loved the other Fast & Furious movies, then buckle up, because this one’s a doozy. 

 Few movie characters have charted a path as iconic as Luke Skywalker's. Across George Lucas' Star Wars saga, Luke goes from a restless farm boy staring at twin suns into the compassionate Jedi Knight who saves his father and restores balance to the Force. His story is one of failure and growth, making it a classic hero's journey that continues to resonate with audiences almost 50 years later.

What makes Luke so enduring is his humanity. He dreams, doubts, and dares to hope, even when the galaxy seems beyond saving. From the moment he fires that fateful shot in the Death Star trench to his final act of mercy in Return of the Jedi, Luke embodies the idea that heroism is as much about empathy as it is about courage. And his best scenes, which are listed in ascending order of epicness, can be revisited on the Disney+ streaming platform.

5. Luke Destroying the Death Star - A New Hope (1977)

A New Hope is the movie where it all began. And the moment Luke destroyed the Death Star confirmed his status as a brave hero. Guided by Obi-Wan's voice to "use the Force," Luke fires the proton torpedo that destroys the weapon and saves the Rebellion. It's one of the most exhilarating climaxes in film history, brought to life with brilliant storytelling. But what gives the scene its lasting power is the symbolism it carries.

Luke finally trusts his instincts and confidently embraces his destiny by letting the Force guide him. When the Death Star explodes, it's not just a victory for the Rebellion; it's a metaphor for personal awakening. Luke's newfound faith becomes ours too, and it's the moment the myth of Star Wars truly begins to soar. A New Hope is an ideal entry point for anyone who is new to the Star Wars franchise and for longtime fans who want to revisit the story.

4. Luke Learning That Vader Is His Father - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Arguably, the most famous twist in movie history comes in The Empire Strikes Back and redefined the entire Star Wars mythos. When Vader tells Luke, "No, I am your father," his identity and worldview are shattered in an instant. Mark Hamill's performance (equal parts disbelief and devastation) perfectly captures the weight of destiny crashing down. Not only is it a turning point for Luke, but also for cinema in its entirety. 

The scene highlights the core of the Star Wars story, which is the struggle between inherited characteristics (the dark side) and who we want to be (chosen light). Luke's devastated scream, echoing through Cloud City, is the sound of a boy realizing that evil is not something you destroy, but something you must confront within yourself. The Empire Strikes Back appeals not just to Star Wars fans, but anyone who loves a good good vs. evil story with a twist.

3. Luke Training With Yoda on Dagobah - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Dagobah is where Luke truly begins to understand what it means to be a Jedi. His training with Master Yoda is funny and deeply philosophical, filled with timeless lessons about fear, failure, and faith in oneself. The swamp setting mirrors Luke's inner confusion, while Yoda's teachings push him beyond brute strength toward enlightenment. The scene is essentially the spiritual heart of the original trilogy.

Luke's desperately impatient reactions to Yoda's cryptic lessons, like "Do or do not. There is no try," are painfully relatable. And watching him struggle to lift the X-wing from the swamp, only to see the much smaller Yoda do it with ease, is humbling for Luke. More than training, this scene is a meditation on letting go of fear to uncover faith.

2. Luke Baiting Jabba and Saving Leia - Return of the Jedi (1983)

By the time we get to Jabba's palace in Return of the Jedi, Luke has embraced his destiny and matured into a calm, confident Jedi Knight. His plan to rescue Han and Leia from Jabba the Hutt showcases the strategic fearlessness of someone who is fully in command of his abilities. There's a controlled swagger in how Luke enters Jabba's lair, a far cry from the nervous young pilot of A New Hope.

Every move he makes, every line he delivers is deliberate and theatrical. The scene plays like an old Hollywood adventure updated with space-age flair. It's also one of the rare times where the saga lets Luke truly shine as an action hero who is no longer weighed down by prophecy or guilt, but simply being the capable, composed Jedi he's worked so hard to become.

1. Luke Defeating the Emperor and Saving His Father - Return of the Jedi (1983)

The best Luke Skywalker scene doubles as the defining point of his life, and arguably the entire Star Wars saga. The moment comes when he throws away his lightsaber and refuses to kill his father. By rejecting hate, he defeats the Emperor by showing compassion instead of channeling his rage. In doing so, he redeems Anakin Skywalker and fulfills the prophecy of balance.

The whole scene showcases what Star Wars is truly about: choosing light instead of darkness. Luke's choice represents everything he has learned, from Yoda's teachings to his own understanding of failure and forgiveness. Luke not only saves his father; he also saves the true meaning of being a Jedi. It's the perfect ending to a story that began with a boy looking to the stars. Return of the Jedi is arguably the best Star Wars movie ever made and is perfect for die-hard fans and anyone who loves a story with a happy ending. 

Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023) dominated the box office upon its release in 2023 and received rave reviews from franchise fans and non-fans alike. Not only did it offer numerous Easter eggs and nods to the game series of the same name and to the YouTubers who popularized it through playthroughs, but it also capitalized on a nostalgic kind of horror.

Many recall the eerie animatronics at family entertainment centers, like Chuck E. Cheese, which is why Five Nights at Freddy’s reawakens some childhood fears. Viewers looking for more of that nostalgic horror and a terrifying twist on childhood memories can use our guide to find five movies like Five Nights at Freddy’s, available on Tubi, Peacock, and more.

Child’s Play (1988)

Like Five Nights at Freddy’s, Child’s Play takes something that’s subtly eerie and turns it into a child’s worst nightmare. In the film, Andy’s (Alex Vincent) dream comes true when his mother buys him a Good Guy doll for his birthday. However, things go south when he learns the spirit of a serial killer inhabits the doll, Chucky (Brad Dourif). As far as haunted toy stories go, Child’s Play is among the very best.

It parallels Five Nights at Freddy’s through its blend of comedy and horror. There are genuinely terrifying slasher moments, but also a hint of campiness as Child’s Play remains self-aware of its absurd premise. If you loved Five Nights at Freddy’s but are seeking something with even more dark comedy and slasher elements, you’ll love Child’s Play.

The Void (2016)

Both Five Nights at Freddy’s and The Void seem to get how terrifying it is to work the dark, isolated night shift at your job. The Void follows police officer Daniel Carter (Aaron Poole), who is working the night shift when he rushes an injured man to the hospital. He and the hospital's skeleton crew are soon terrorized by mysterious, cloaked figures who invade the hospital. The Void evokes nostalgia for ‘80s slasher movies with its practical effects while also capitalizing on the night-shift horror premise.

It’s an excellent alternative for fans of Five Nights at Freddy’s who were looking for just a few more genuine scares. The Void makes excellent use of suspense and plays out like a terrifying nightmare, with unpredictable, jarring twists. Fans of The Night Watchman (2016) and Let Us Prey (2014) will especially enjoy The Void’s night shift horror.

The Banana Splits Movie (2019)

The Banana Splits Movie gives viewers a Five Nights at Freddy’s-esque story with an extra dose of gore. The comedy horror centers on Harley Williams (Finlay Wojtak-Hissong), who gets to watch a live studio recording of his favorite show, The Banana Splits, only for the animatronics to go on a murder spree after learning of their show’s cancellation. It’s inspired by the real-life ‘60s children's show, The Banana Splits, once again turning distant childhood memories into horror. 

Like Five Nights at Freddy’s, the premise is campy, but it still offers some surprisingly shocking moments of gore and violence, making it just a little scarier. Additionally, viewers can’t help but be impressed by the bold decision to turn a real-life children’s show into slasher fodder. It’s an excellent choice for viewers who love horror spins on childhood favorites, like Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey (2023), but are seeking the same quality as Five Nights at Freddy’s.

Willy’s Wonderland (2021)

Willy’s Wonderland is another horror film with a similar premise to Five Nights at Freddy’s. In the movie, a janitor (Nicolas Cage) fights for survival against eight sentient, homicidal animatronics after agreeing to clean the entertainment center Willy’s Wonderland at night in exchange for car repairs. Willy’s Wonderland is just as fun as Five Nights at Freddy’s, with a little extra gore and the bonus of watching Cage beat up a bunch of creepy animatronics.

The film leans a little more into action than Five Nights at Freddy’s, offering well-choreographed, exciting fight scenes. It’s creepy, fun, and action-packed, making it an excellent alternative to fans of Five Nights at Freddy’s and The Banana Splits Movie who are looking for something with a bit more star power and action.

Abigail (2024)

Abigail and Five Nights at Freddy’s both feature situations where waiting out the night turns out to be much more terrifying than the characters anticipated. In the film, a group of criminals kidnap Abigail (Alisha Weir), the daughter of an underworld crime boss, only to realize too late that there’s something superhuman about the little girl and her father. It’s like Five Nights at Freddy’s but with vampires and a whole group of characters rather than one isolated night watchman.

Abigail is also way scarier than Five Nights at Freddy’s, keeping viewers on their toes with the constant jump scares and grisly, mysterious deaths of numerous characters in quick succession. The fact that a little girl is the source of horror also adds a bit more terror to the premise, though it retains some dark humor. Fans who love movies like Ready or Not (2019), in which some malevolent force hunts the characters, will love Abigail. 

Even the biggest superhero fans can feel worn down by the endless stream of sequels, shared universes, and multiverse sagas. After two decades of constant capes and cosmic stakes, it's only natural to want something different without abandoning what makes heroism so compelling. The movies on this list take a fresh approach to the genre.

Some are quirky and quiet, while others are sincere. But each one challenges the idea of what a superhero film can be. They explore the quiet moments of hope and morality that exist between the battles, giving you a chance to rediscover the magic that first made these stories special. And they can all be found on streamers like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.

Superman: The Movie (1978)

Sometimes, the cure for superhero fatigue is to go back to where it all began. Superman: The Movie remains one of the genre's purest expressions of optimism and is essentially a film that truly believes in the goodness of its hero. The story follows Clark Kent (Christopher Reeve), a humble reporter from another world who embraces his destiny to become humanity's greatest symbol of hope.

Reeve's portrayal of Clark is sincere, without an ounce of irony to be found in a single scene. The movie is a reminder of a time when superhero stories were told with mythic grandeur rather than self-awareness, which is probably why the film's bright tone and overall warmth still resonate more than four decades later. It's a must for viewers who are tired of cynical antiheroes like Deadpool (2016) and would prefer to skip interconnected storylines.

Unbreakable (2000)

If superhero fatigue comes from sensory overload, Unbreakable offers the perfect antidote. Billed as a thriller, it reimagines the superhero origin story as a mystery. Bruce Willis plays David Dunn, a man who survives a train crash with no injuries and slowly realizes he might not be as ordinary as he thought. Things get complicated when Elijah Price (Samuel L. Jackson) decides to manipulate him.

What makes Unbreakable different is its restraint. There are no costumes, no epic explosions, and no fast-talking quips. It's just a story about two men struggling with their destiny in the shadows of suburban Philadelphia. Some viewers may find its pacing slow, but that's what gives it power, similar to the 2007 movie, The Number 23.

Super (2010)

For those craving something darker, Super flips the superhero idea on its head. The story follows an ordinary man named Frank (Rainn Wilson) whose wife leaves him for a drug dealer. He uses the event as inspiration to fight crime in a homemade costume using a pipe wrench as a weapon. The result is a brutal, messy, and deeply unsettling parody of the superhero genre that exposes the dangerous fantasy of vigilante justice and the questionable psychology behind it.

The film flips between dark comedy and tragedy, which forces viewers to question whether Frank's actions are heroic or horrific. It's not easy to watch. The violence can be a bit too much and the tone is very uncomfortable. But that's what makes it effective. Super is for viewers who are tired of glossy heroics and want something unpredictable, a little like Kickass (2010). It's a sobering look at what happens when the superhero dream collides with reality.

Griff the Invisible (2010)

If the typical superhero movie has started to feel a little too predictable, Griff the Invisible might be the oddball story you need. This Australian comedy-drama follows Griff (Ryan Kwanten), a socially awkward office worker who escapes into a secret superhero life at night. His world of cardboard gadgets and imaginary missions is less about saving others and more about surviving his own loneliness.

What makes the film worth watching is its unusual tone, which is part romantic fantasy, part melancholy character study. It's a little strange and completely uninterested in blockbuster rules. Instead, it celebrates imagination as a form of resilience. Viewers who loved the emotional honesty of Lars and the Real Girl (2007) or the whimsical realism of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) will enjoy this movie.

The Avengers (2012)

If Superman captures the genre's innocence, The Avengers represents its most polished evolution. The Marvel blockbuster brought together Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, and the rest of Earth's Mightiest Heroes for the first time and proved that a cinematic crossover could actually work. Revisiting The Avengers today is fascinating because it marks both the peak and the turning point of the superhero boom.

It's thrilling, funny, and full of genuine chemistry. At the same time, it's also where the genre began to strain under its own success. Every studio wanted its own version, and the sense of novelty quickly faded. That makes The Avengers a perfect addition to this list. It perfectly showcases how good the team-up formula can be when it's new. It's a must for anyone who wants to revisit the first phase of the MCU, before the fatigue set in.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe popularized the post-credit scene, using it to tease future projects at the end of its movies and TV shows. While the earliest post-credit scenes foreshadowed events like the formation of The Avengers and the imminent threat of Thanos (Josh Brolin), as the MCU grew larger and more complex, the post-credit scenes grew a little more obscure. Some prematurely teased shelved projects, while others teased projects that aren’t officially in development.

Hence, this list will cover which Marvel TV show and movie post-credit scenes remain unresolved, with no potential resolution in sight. It does not include post-credits scenes that are highly likely to be resolved with the release of confirmed future projects, such as Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026).

The Beacon Post-Credit Scene - Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings features an ambiguous post-credits scene. It sets up Shang-Chi’s (Simu Liu) Avengers entry as he makes contact with Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) and Captain Marvel (Brie Larson). However, the trio makes an odd discovery as they realize his Rings are sending out a mysterious beacon. Although there are many theories, such as the Rings’ connection to the Celestials or the bangle in Ms. Marvel (2022), the true source or meaning of the beacon remains unaddressed.

Despite this minor ambiguity, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings marks an action-packed installment in the MCU. Shang-Chi and Katy (Awkwafina) are among the most refreshing new MCU characters, while the movie has a fantasy/mythology vibe reminiscent of Moon Knight (2022) and Eternals (2021).

Pip the Troll & Blade Post-Credit Scenes - Eternals (2021)

Eternals features two post-credit scenes, neither of which has come to fruition. The first scene features Harry Styles’ MCU debut as Thanos’ brother, Starfox, and his companion Pip the Troll (Patton Oswald), who offer to help save the Eternals from Arishem’s (David Kaye) wrath. The second scene teases Dane Whitman’s (Kit Harrington) superhero identity, Black Knight, with his unveiling of the ebony blade, and features a voice cameo from Blade (Mahershala Ali).

Unfortunately, there have been no indications that the MCU will do anything more with Starfox, Pip the Troll, or the Eternals. Additionally, although a Blade reboot with Ali in the titular role was in development, Marvel has since removed it from its release schedule. Although Eternals’ future in the MCU is uncertain, it's a highly underrated movie that features one of the franchise’s most diverse and creative entries to date.

Third Alter Ego Post-Credit Scene - Moon Knight (2022) 

The MCU miniseries Moon Knight ends with a post-credit scene that reveals a previously unknown third Moon Knight (Oscar Isaac) alter ego, Jake Lockely, who is still working for the Egyptian god Khonshu (Karim El Hakim and F. Murray Abraham). Much of the series centers around Steven Grant, a man with dissociative identity disorder (DID), and his alter ego, Marc Spector, trying to come to terms with their identity, making the revelation of their third, most ruthless identity quite startling.

However, Marvel opted not to produce Moon Knight Season 2 and, although executives have claimed the character would return in other projects, no confirmed plans currently exist. Even so, Moon Knight is reminiscent of Eternals in that it offers something new to the MCU. Like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, the series leans more toward fantasy and mythology, though it also features a distinct psychological element reminiscent of Split (2016).

Clea Post-Credit Scene - ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness features a post-credit scene in which the sorceress Clea (Charlize Theron) appears to Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) and beckons him into the Dark Dimension to fix the incursion he caused. Since then, neither Clea nor Doctor Strange has appeared in the MCU, and only the latter is confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday. Given Clea’s absence and how overstuffed Avengers: Doomsday’s cast is, the possibility of it resolving this post-credit scene seems unlikely, leaving viewers to question whatever happened to Clea.

Despite the unresolved post-credit scene, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a strong sequel to Doctor Strange (2016). Like Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) and Loki (2021), it offers a deep dive into the multiverse, though it leans more into horror than the typical MCU movie. The horror vibes and strong crossover of the Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Doctor Strange make it an exciting MCU entry.

Hercules Post-Credit Scene - Thor: Love & Thunder (2022)

Thor: Love and Thunder’s post-credit scene features Brett Goldstein’s MCU debut as Hercules. In the film, Thor defeats Zeus (Russell Crowe), but the mid-credits scene reveals he’s recuperating in Omnipotence City, where he sends his son, Hercules, to get revenge on Thor. The scene was fascinating, given that it marked Hercules' first introduction to the MCU and the added surprise of Goldstein taking on the role. Thor will return in Avengers: Doomsday, and there are talks of a fifth Thor movie, but there are no confirmed plans for Goldstein’s Hercules, raising doubts that he’ll return.

Thor: Love and Thunder is very similar to Thor: Ragnarok (2017), bursting with humor, fun, eccentricity, and a catchy soundtrack. The film is the perfect blend of superhero action and comedy, though it also offers heartfelt moments as it explores grief and terminal illness.

Council of Kang Post-Credit Scene - Ant-Man and the Wasp Quantumania (2023)

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania features a post-credit scene in which numerous Kang variants (Jonathan Majors) assemble at the Council of Kang and plot vengeance for Kang the Conqueror’s (Majors) death in the Quantum Realm. The scene served as a setup for Avengers: The Kang Dynasty. However, following Majors’ conviction on charges of assault and battery, Marvel reworked Avengers: The Kang Dynasty into Avengers: Doomsday and scrapped all plans for Kang’s MCU future.

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania has a somewhat strange place in the MCU, since much of its plot is no longer relevant to the franchise. Even so, its quality is in line with its predecessors, Ant-Man (2015) and Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018). It’s among the most lighthearted and humorous MCU entries and gives viewers a long-awaited deep dive into the Quantum Realm.

It's almost time for audiences to lose their mind over Jonathan Bailey and Cynthia Erivo's rendition of "As Long As You're Mine" in Wicked: For Good (2025), as the conclusion to Wicked (2024) also shows what becomes of the beloved characters we first met in The Wizard of Oz (1939). There aren't many Broadway musicals that get the movie treatment on a scale this large, and even when there are some stage-to-screen adaptations like Phantom of the Opera (2004) or In the Heights (2021), they aren't given the sequel treatment that Jon M. Chu is delivering with Wicked: For Good. 

But that's not all—the sequel is also set to have two brand new songs, and those who know the story already know how emotional the back half of the production will be. So with more songs, we're in for lots of tears and all the emotions. Interestingly, on many occasions, sequels don't hold a candle to the original or they flop and fly under the radar. But on some rare occasions, like with Wicked 2, sequels are so incredible, the original is made better because of their addition. Here are seven movie musical sequels that got it right, as well as where you can watch them on Disney+ and more.

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018)

A sequel that kills off one of its main characters sounds horrifying on paper, but everything that Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again delivers makes it an even stronger musical than the original film. This movie is in my Letterboxd top four for a reason, and it's entirely because it's a heartfelt love letter to Donna Sheridan and a gorgeous depiction of how we find healing in our grief. Meryl Streep's character might be gone, but she's still a prominent presence throughout.

Lily James and every cast member who embodies the older characters as their young selves do a phenomenal job of not only matching their mannerisms in the past, but they also effectively show us how they got to where they are now, honoring the character backstories in a way that's so poignant, I could cry just thinking about it. Plus, it features some of ABBA's most underrated tracks, making it even lovelier because of this fact. Mamma Mia 2 might be a hard film to watch for some, but if you can handle the grief, it's a perfect movie about friendships, taking chances, and fighting through every obstacle.

Grease 2 (1982)

Grease 2 isn't a traditional sequel in the sense that we see original characters return, but it's significantly better in more ways than one. For the time period it's made in, the toxicity of Grease (1978) is understandable to a degree, but it unfortunately makes the film a bit less palatable for those who might not love the tropes. Grease 2, however, makes every beat of the romance feel earned.

The music may not be as memorable as the original, but how Grease 2 respects its female characters and their agency is no small feat. It's as though critiques were taken into consideration, and the improvement that's made tells fans that sometimes stories can grow from questionable choices. More importantly, the chemistry between Michelle Pfeiffer and Michael Carrington is stunning and so swoonworthy. Plus, a British man? Yes, please. Oddly, also perfect for those who defend Mamma Mia 2! Here We Go Again like it's their job.

The Lion King 2: Simba's Pride (1998)

The Lion King 2: Simba's Pride, otherwise known as the one where Simba becomes a hot dad and his daughter falls in love with an even hotter bad boy. Don't ask me to explain it; this one's for anyone who finds Robin Hood (1973) and Thomas O'Malley from The Aristocats (1970) to be hot, too. It's for us. But on a serious note, Disney sequels are usually okay, but they rarely touch on the same magic as the original films, and in every way, The Lion King 2 honors the heart of The Lion King (1994), all while allowing the characters to improve for the better.

The songs are catchy (and tearjerkers), and the story is twice as emotional, giving us a perfect forbidden romance in a space where it could result in literal life or death. It delivers an achingly poignant story about forgiveness, nature vs. nurture, all while exploring grief and the relationship between fathers and daughters. If there's one Disney sequel that's a must-watch, it's this. 

Frozen 2 (2019)

Like The Lion King 2, Frozen 2 is a rare instance where Disney gets a sequel right and does a beautiful job of expanding the lore while answering questions fans had from the original movie. If Frozen (2013) was for the winter lovers, the sequel is everything for those whose favorite season is fall. The animation in it is extraordinary in every way and takes risks to make it even more colorful.

While the songs didn't catch on the way they did with the original, the sequel does a gorgeous job of exploring the romance between Kristoff and Anna, making it the type of movie that's especially suited for people who love nerdy heroes. It feels refreshing and honest, but it also continues to develop the relationship between Anna and Elsa, bringing them closer as sisters as they understand more about their parents and Arendelle's history.  

Pitch Perfect 2 (2015)

Pitch Perfect 2 and Pitch Perfect 3 (2017) are for diehard Pitch Perfect (2012) fans. They aren't the type of movie that every filmgoer or critic will enjoy, nor do they have to be, and so much of the magic lies in the viewing experience when you're the type of fan who watches musicals for the fun of it all. The sequel gets it right by bringing all favorite characters back into the same space to tell a new story about growth and more music.

The sequel also gets everything right by giving Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Anna Camp, and the whole cast great material to work with as they continue to flesh out their characters while simultaneously showing off their musical chops. And while it's not a perfect sequel by definition, it's so easy to appreciate as a comfort film. 

High School Musical 2 (2007)

High School Musical (2006), like Pitch Perfect, isn't for everybody. It's for the people who were teenagers or kids when the movie came out because the nostalgia is exactly what makes it glorious. It holds up for us when we rewatch because we remember exactly where we were and what we were doing when each of those songs was released, and we obsessed over them for days on end. 

With that, High School Musical 2 nails it as a story that takes the original and explores the romance even further by adding angst into the mix to make everything more enticing. Zac Efron's "Bet on It" became a huge mood then and, occasionally, is still one today. And all the poignant emotions in "Gotta Go My Way" hit extra hard when you're desperately waiting for Troy and Gabriela to get back together. 

Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam (2010) 

Camp Rock (2008) is great, but Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam is an even bigger doozy because it pumps up all the angst and challenges the romance like High School Musical 2. Demi Lovato and Joe Jones' "Wouldn't Change a Thing" is an emotional whirlwind that hits in all the right ways and shows us why the characters are so perfectly suited for one another, and Nick Jonas' "Introducing Me" was an absolute bop to sing along to.

The sequel not only adds more romance, but it also gives us a story about friendships that really emphasizes how going away to camp can be such a good thing for the people who need it. It's fun, a little cringy at times, but the type of sequel that feels necessary in the mix. You can't watch Camp Rock without jumping into the second one, and now, with a third movie confirmed, it's going to be so interesting to reunite with these characters and see how the times have changed them. 

Jeremy Allen White is one of Hollywood’s fastest-rising stars, earning widespread acclaim for his leading role in The Bear (2022) and starring role in A24’s The Iron Claw (2023). He is next set to enter the Star Wars universe, portraying Jabba the Hutt’s son, Rotta the Hutt, in The Mandalorian and Grogu (2026).

Viewers interested in catching up on his filmography before his Star Wars debut can use our guide to find out where you can watch the 10 best Jeremy Allen White movies and TV shows, ranked to the best, on platforms like Hulu, HBO Max, and more.

10. Homecoming (2018-2020)

Homecoming is a thriller series that follows Heidi Bergman (Julia Roberts), who struggles to recover her memory of what happened four years earlier, when she worked at the Homecoming Transitional Support Center and helped soldiers transition to civilian life. White appears in the first season as Shrier, a soldier and client of Homecoming. The show gives off Hitchcockian vibes with its masterful use of suspense and tension. Not to mention, it’s bolstered by a strong cast.

However, Homecoming Season 2 features a new director, a mostly new cast, and a new direction that makes it feel like a completely different show, and it fails to reach the heights of Season 1. Between White’s relatively minor role and the downturn in Season 2, Homecoming takes last place on this list, though it’s worth a watch for fans of intense thrillers like Severance (2022) and Dark (2017).

9. Afterschool (2008)

Afterschool centers on private school student Robert (Ezra Miller), who accidentally captures a disturbing scene while completing a film assignment. White stars in the film as Dave, Robert’s troubled roommate who’s involved in drug sales. While White plays the role well, Miller takes the spotlight as the complicated and mysterious Robert. 

The film, as a whole, is subtly eerie and disturbing, making viewers question their own and the characters’ perceptions of reality. It examines compelling themes of voyeurism and violence, and it hits quite hard, given the youthfulness of its characters. Although the heaviness of Afterschool means it’s not for everyone, viewers who don’t mind unsettling, dark stories like Margaret (2011) and Benny’s Video (1992) will love it.

8. The Rental (2020)

The Rental is a horror film that tells the story of brothers Charlie (Dan Stevens) and Josh (White), whose vacation with their partners takes a disturbing turn when they become suspicious of the host of the vacation home. It’s a unique blend of horror and drama that explores one family’s dysfunction alongside traditional horror elements. White seems at home in the role of Josh, given his penchant for portraying characters caught in complex family dynamics.

The Rental is an entertaining, sturdy horror movie that features engaging performances, character studies, and a few good scares. However, it lacks a bit of originality and sacrifices some resolution in hopes of a sequel, which prevents it from ranking higher on this list. Still, if you can’t resist horror movies with isolated vacation settings, like The Cabin in the Woods (2011) and Knock at the Cabin (2023), you’ll enjoy The Rental.

7. Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere (2025)

Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere delves into the life of music legend Bruce Springsteen (White), tracing his personal and professional struggles as he crafted Nebraska. The film marks an excellent performance from White, who wholly transforms into the legendary singer. He perfects the vocals and beautifully portrays the darker, more haunted side of Springsteen.

White is truly the reason to watch Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere. Viewers seeking more than his electric performance, though, may be disappointed, as the film struggles to break new ground and rise above the typical musical biopic. Still, anyone looking for a musical biopic with a stunning actor transformation, like that in Elvis (2022) and Ray (2004), will find White’s performance in Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere to be enough for the movie.

6. Fingernails (2023)

Fingernails is a sci-fi romance that follows a couple, Anne (Jessie Buckley) and Ryan (White), who grapple with relationship struggles despite the results of a controversial technology that detects true love. It’s a unique concept bolstered by three compelling lead performances from Buckley, White, and Riz Ahmed. White is especially compelling as the oblivious yet well-meaning boyfriend whose love is tested again and again.

Fingernails finds the perfect balance between sci-fi and romance, delving into thought-provoking themes about how technology impacts dating and relationships, while also featuring an intriguing love triangle. The film is perfect for fans who love romance with a little sci-fi twist, like Love Me (2024).

5. After Everything (2018)

After Everything tells the story of Elliot (White) and Mia (Maika Monroe), who begin a tentative relationship shortly after Elliot receives a life-changing diagnosis. White delivers an excellent performance as Elliot, reminding viewers of his work as Carmy in The Bear. He has a knack for portraying characters who grapple with the lot they’ve been dealt in life and for capturing the lingering impact of traumatic events, such as a serious diagnosis.

Meanwhile, After Everything is a refreshing and unique romance movie. In the vein of films like We Live in Time (2024) and The Fault in Our Stars (2014), it tackles the difficulty of love in the face of a cancer diagnosis, but it does so in a way that feels authentic and grounded. Although it doesn’t completely evade some romance clichés and familiarity, the thoughtful themes and White and Monroe’s chemistry are enough to carry the film.

4. Shameless (2011-2021)

Shameless marks White’s breakthrough role. The series centers on the six Gallagher children, who try to raise themselves due to their father Frank’s (William H. Macy) substance abuse and poor parenting skills. White starred in the series for 10 years as Lip Gallagher, the second-oldest Gallagher child, who is incredibly intelligent but hindered by his family life and delinquent ways. He beautifully captures Lip’s humor and intelligence and poignantly demonstrates the impact of family life on a teenager’s potential.

Shameless is a thought-provoking and sometimes dark but compelling drama. At its heart, it’s quite a profound and touching depiction of six children trying to defy their upbringing and become well-adjusted young adults. Viewers who love White’s other works about dysfunctional families and breaking the cycle of generational trauma, like The Iron Claw and The Bear, will love Shameless.

3. Fremont (2023)

Fremont follows Donya (Anaita Wali Zada), an Afghan refugee and former army translator, who struggles with survivor’s guilt and depression while working in a fortune cookie factory. White appears in the film as Daniel, a man who meets Donya after an unexpected twist in events. Even though he only appears in two scenes, they are among the most emotionally powerful in the movie, capturing themes of kindness, hope, healing, and genuine human connection.

Like White’s scenes, Fremont has a sort of understated power. On the surface, it’s quite a simple story, but it’s rich in themes and quiet beauty. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you thinking and interpreting for long after it finishes. Fans of subtly potent and intriguing movies, like Nomadland (2020), will love Fremont.

2. The Iron Claw (2023)

The Iron Claw is a biographical sports movie that tells the story of the Von Erich family, who left an indelible mark on the wrestling world but suffered an unusually high level of personal tragedies in the process. White stars as Kerry Von Erich, the most promising athlete in the family, whose life begins to derail after a motorcycle accident. He truly proves he belongs on the big screen with a soulful, haunting performance that beautifully complements Zac Efron’s career-best performance as Kevin Von Erich.

In addition to Efron and White’s passionate performances, The Iron Claw is an incredible, emotional, and powerful story that shines a light on the darker side of the wrestling world. Its heartbreakingly tragic premise and accurate, unrestrained look at the Von Erichs is never easy to watch, but it is worth it for the powerful message of breaking the cycle. 

1. The Bear (2022-Present)

The Bear is a dramedy that centers on Carmy Berzatto (White), a talented chef who returns to his hometown after his brother’s death to run the family’s struggling Italian beef restaurant. The series marks White’s best role to date, as he plays Carmy to perfection, beautifully capturing his talent, grief, trauma, and effort to cope and heal from his past. Viewers who loved White’s performances as Lip, Kerry, and Elliot will be thrilled to find pieces of each in Carmy.

Overall, The Bear is an excellent series that perfectly balances humor and drama. Tackling the stress of the culinary field, the profound impact of family dysfunction, and the touching elements of human connection, it’s perfectly and meticulously crafted to evoke emotion, laughter, and warmth, making it White’s very best project. Fans of culinary dramas like Burnt (2015) and The Menu (2022) will be especially intrigued by The Bear’s restaurant premise. 

Monsters have, and always will be, an iconic part of cinema. Audiences love to be scared, and nightmarish creatures like Pennywise or Xenomorphs stick with viewers long after the credits roll. However, there have been plenty of tragic movie monsters who aren’t meant to elicit fear, but rather pity. Frankenstein’s Monster is arguably the most well-known movie monster, and with Guillermo Del Toro’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s novel dropping on Netflix, now feels like the perfect time to examine the modern monster movies that made us shed a tear. 

Instead of dredging up many of the expected classics, like Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992) or Bride of Frankenstein (1935), we’re primarily looking at 10 emotionally poignant or devastating monster movies from the last decade. Some of these movies have gone under the radar for years and deserve a second chance at life, while others are popular but may not exactly be considered a monster movie. If you want monster movies that are tender and moving as opposed to terrifying and skin-crawling, then consider these 10 modern monster masterpieces.

Frankenstein (2025)

The impetus of this list, if you’re going to talk about sympathetic monsters, you have to talk about Frankenstein, and Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation presents probably the most sympathetic portrayal of the Monster around. What helps make Frankenstein as strong as it is is Jacob Elordi’s turn as the Monster. While many associate the Monster with Boris Karloff’s rendition, grunts and all, there’s a certain elegance to Elordi’s creature that’s simply wonderful. 

Del Toro infuses the Monster with humanity, and the audience slowly goes from fearing him to feeling for his plight. It also helps that del Toro is a master of creating spectacular period pieces. Those who found the sets of Crimson Peak (2015) and Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) just as compelling as its cast will feel right at home with Frankenstein. If you want your monster movies full of empathy and gothic beauty, be sure to check it out..

Your Monster (2024)

Monster romances are nothing new, but Your Monster feels like a down-to-earth romance between a woman and the monster that lives in her closet. It’s undeniably quirky to be sure, but that quirkiness helps to really drive home how perfect its leads are for each other.

Monster (yes, his name is literally just Monster) is the kind of guy that would be a lot of people’s “hear me out.” He has some bite to him with a bit of a temper, but in reality, he’s a softie. He genuinely wants what’s best for his roommate, Laura, and seeing such a positive relationship develop between the two of them is heartwarming. The unusual dynamic isn’t dissimilar from Warm Bodies (2013), but Your Monster isn’t afraid to talk about relationships in an adult way. If you want a mature romance with a bit of horror splashed in, as well as an ending that will make you think “good for her,” then Your Monster will satisfy you and then some.

Poor Things (2023)

Calling Poor Things a monster movie may be a bit odd on the surface, but for anyone who saw Yorgos Lanthimos’ critically acclaimed sci-fi dramedy, you don’t need me to explain why this movie is a great character piece in the same vein as Frankenstein. What makes Poor Things such a fascinating movie is how we watch Bella grow and develop over the film’s two-hour and twenty-two-minute runtime. We see her go from a barely coherent fool to a well-educated and verbose woman. In many ways, Bella is the female version of Frankenstein's Monster, but that also means that society’s treatment of her is far harsher.

While Poor Things never becomes truly dark, seeing Bella grapple with her own identity, both as a monster and as a woman, as well as watching her discover the truth about her past life, is heartbreaking. It’s all done very tastefully, and fans of Lanthimos’ library of films like The Favourite (2018) and Bugonia (2025) will be used to his eccentric presentation. So, if you want a visually stunning movie about what it means to be human, consider giving Poor Things a watch.

The Shape of Water (2017)

If there’s one thing Guillermo del Toro is good at, it’s making monsters. His creatures all appear inhuman, yet have a humanity in them that’s hard to ignore. Case in point: The Shape of Water. While Your Monster slowly dips its toes into exploring what a romance between a human and a monster would be like, The Shape of Water dives headfirst into it. The world intentionally feels drab and gloomy, yet the moments Elisa shares with her amphibious lover bring the film to life. 

Even though no traditional dialogue is shared between our two lovers, you feel the connection they develop and root for them even as society does everything in its power to stop their love. It’s a fairy tale much in the same way Edward Scissorhands (1990) is, and it channels some Shakespearean tragedy in its ending. Even if you’re grossed out by the slimy nature of Elisa’s lover, if you’re a romantic who thinks that looks aren’t everything, then The Shape of Water was practically made for you.

A Monster Calls (2016)

Not all monster movies have to be aimed at adults. If you’re looking for a new take on a monster movie that kids can enjoy, A Monster Calls is a pretty delightful coming-of-age story that anyone can enjoy.

A Monster Calls is a child-friendly exploration of the five stages of grief and handles those themes wonderfully. The monster is both imposing yet gentle, and even when he acts slightly frightening, it’s all in the best interest of helping the young Conor explore and understand what’s happening around him. He doesn’t sugarcoat what Conor is feeling, and the soothing tone of Liam Neeson helps make the monster feel like a father to him. It masterfully blends the wonder and imagination of childhood with the crushing harshness of reality, making A Monster Calls a wonderful double feature with the equally devastating Bridge to Terabithia (2007).

Lisa Frankenstein (2023)

Some interpretations of Frankenstein tend to lead toward the monster’s desire for companionship. But what if the inverse was true? What if the monster was made so that someone else could find love? Well, then you would get Lisa Frankenstein.

A love letter to horror comedies like Jennifer’s Body (2009), Lisa Frankenstein shows reverence for both the original Mary Shelley novel and ‘80s horror movies. Lisa adores the Victorian era and wants nothing more than to be a part of that time period, so watching her bond with a monster she revived from that era is touching. The movie’s foot is firmly planted in camp horror, with plenty of gooey and stupid kills, but it’s all rooted in a solid performance by Kathryn Newton as a simple girl who doesn’t want to be alone. It’s a very relatable monster movie, and its tragic end hits the right notes befitting a Frankenstein movie. For those who are romantics at heart, Lisa Frankenstein will make you swoon. 

Bones and All (2022)

While the definition of “monster” may be stretched ever so slightly with Bones and All, there’s no denying that the monstrous actions of its cast of cannibals will leave you heartbroken and deeply uncomfortable. It’s a dark exploration of human nature, but one that blends multiple genres. Not only is it a road trip movie, but it’s a romance, body horror showcase, and a drama about the lengths people will go to survive.

Bones and All is a Jack of all trades, with director Luca Guadagnino understanding when to switch genres to best get a reaction from the audience. At its core, Bones and All is just a story about two lonely people finding each other and growing to rely on one another. It all ends horrifically and on a soul-crushing note, but if you’ve seen Let the Right One In (2008), you’ll know what to expect. You may shed a tear at how there’s no happy ending for anyone involved, but Bones and All, at the very least, forces its audience to define what a monster even is, and if someone is a monster, does it even matter?

Colossal (2017)

It’s not uncommon for monster movies to be introspective think pieces. How a film frames a monster is just as important as its presentation, and Colossal perfectly nails using its monster as a metaphor for alcoholism. 

Colossal was originally pitched as “Godzilla (1954) meets Lost in Translation (2003),” and it certainly shows. The film balances the spectacle of kaiju action with the ennui and aimlessness of an adult going through a midlife crisis. It is undeniably strange, though. This is a film where Anne Hathaway can remote control a giant monster in Seoul after all, but Colossal uses its oddness to paint a picture of a sad woman in a toxic relationship that desperately needs help. For all its bizarre ideas, it’s a well-grounded movie that lovers of dark female-driven character pieces should see.

Shin Godzilla (2016)

Of course, if we’re going to mention monster movies, it’s only a matter of time before the King of the Monsters himself shows up. And if there was one modern Godzilla movie that would leave you an emotional wreck, it would be Shin Godzilla.

While other movies on this list may prey on your sympathy and empathy toward their monster, Godzilla is still a terrifying being of destruction, even more so than usual. His disgusting appearance would make the creatures from The Thing (1982) squirm, but he’s not the reason why this film will leave you numb and hollow. It’s how it depicts the Japanese government. They’re inept, ineffective, and ignorant of any potential crisis, and they are more interested in sorting out bureaucratic red tape than stopping Godzilla. Considering the state of modern politics, Shin Godzilla, like Chernobyl (2019), is a sobering reminder of the failures of those in power. Those who are completely disillusioned with the system will get exactly what Shin Godzilla is laying out.

The Lure (2015)

While mermaids are often depicted as kind creatures in films like The Little Mermaid (1989), make no mistake: Mermaids are monsters. For every kind and sweet mermaid, there’s a dark and unsettling one in movies like The Lure.

Part monster movie, part romance, part rock opera, and part fairy tale, there’s a little something for everyone in The Lure. It hits a lot of the same beats that The Shape of Water does, but it imbues it with a sense of style and punk edge that is perfect for people obsessed with rock operas like Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008). And most of that comes from its amphibious leads. Golden and Silver are undeniably violent monsters, but even then, you start to empathize with their desire to find love and the lengths they’ll go for it. Of course, it ends badly for our leads—most monster movies do—but, at the very least, they go out staying true to themselves and how they wanted to live their lives. 

Hallmark Christmas movies are specifically designed for romance lovers who can believe in cliches becoming a reality without cringing too much. These films aren't meant to be critically acclaimed, nor should they be taken so seriously that people hate-watch them. (Though honestly, that can sometimes be entertaining, too.) The formulaic content has become a comfort for many people during the holiday season, and they're especially fun depending on which actor we get to see again in a new role.

Every year, the network releases a ton of films for viewers to watch. Because that can be overwhelming to filter through, we've curated a list of the ones we're most hopeful for. From the ridiculously delightful Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper! (2025) to the third installment of the Three Wise Men and a Baby (2022) saga, here are the best Hallmark Christmas movies coming in 2025 and where you can watch them on Hallmark+ and more.

Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper! (2025)

Available now, Hallmark's Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper! is an absolute delight and a must-watch for those who love nerdy men. Starring One Tree Hill (2003) alum Robert Buckley and Kimberley Sustad, it's brimming with heart, humor, and a sweet romance coupled with loads of everyday things going wrong.

The film follows Buckley's titular character, a weatherman with a streak of ridiculous luck, going back to his hometown for Christmas, where he reunites with his childhood crush in the most ridiculous way possible. It's wholesome and hilarious, but more importantly, the chemistry between Buckley and Sustad makes the relationship believable. For viewers who love on-the-nose jokes, this one's not to be missed. 

A Newport Christmas (2025)

Perfect for the viewers who loved Hallmark's A Biltmore Christmas (2023), A Newport Christmas is a sweeping time-travel romance with plenty of heart at its center. Starring Wes Brown and Ginna Claire Mason, the movie follows a Gilded Age heiress finding herself in our timeline and naturally falling in love with the leading man.

The thing about Hallmark time-travel films is that we don't ask questions. Will they have a Social Security number? What about the physics of it all? It doesn't matter. Part of the charm is suspending our disbelief. The films always evoke plenty of believable magic when the actors have the chemistry to sell the story, and that's exactly what happens in A Newport Christmas. It's stunning in every way and already available now. 

Christmas Above the Clouds (2025)

Tyler Hynes is one of Hallmark's most popular hunks, so any time he's in a Christmas movie, it's bound to be great. Pair him with an incredible actress like When Calls the Heart's (2014) Erin Krakow, and we're sure to have a winner. Better yet, we already knew they'll make a perfect team because Christmas Above the Clouds is surely as amazing as It Was Always You (2021) was. 

To top things off, Krakow will be playing a Scrooge-like character who'll not only be stuck with her ex-fiancé (Hynes) on an international flight, but she'll be revisited by three ghosts. And well, we all know where the story will go. If Hallmark's streak of amazing A Christmas Carol adaptations continues, we're bound to have another delight like the absolute treasure that is Ghosts of Christmas Always (2022). The film is out now. 

A Keller Christmas Vacation (2025)

Starring Jonathan Bennett, Brandon Routh, Eden Sher, and more, A Keller Christmas Vacation might be Hallmark's version of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989), or it might be an overly cheesy family film, but either way, the stars alone are enough reason to watch. Since Hallmark now thankfully includes LGBTQ+ relationships in its stories, any film or TV show that Bennett stars in becomes an instant must-watch.

Pair Bennett with other comedic stars, and we're bound to get something delightful on our hands. More importantly, with a film that's going to be centered around two brothers and a sister, it seems we'll be getting three separate romances, and that's always a bonus. A Keller Christmas Vacation released on November 9. 

Three Wisest Men (2025)

The Brenner brothers are back for another wild ride, and I, for one, couldn't be more excited. Hallmark's Three Wise Men trilogy perfectly honors the original comedy, 3 Men and a Baby (1987), and it's still surprising how profoundly wholesome and endearing Hallmark's adaptations are. The screenplay is always so sharp, and with Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes, and Paul Campbell at the helm, it's a clear winner in every way.

Not only is the original film incredible, but the sequel, Three Wiser Men and a Boy (2024), hits just as hard, so it's easy to get our hopes up for the third installment, Three Wisest Men, which releases on November 15. The films consistently deliver humor, hijinks, and incredible heart with three different romances, making them a must-watch all around. If you only watch one Hallmark Christmas movie, let it be the Three Wise Men trilogy. 

Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story (2025)

For fans who loved last year's Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story (2024), then this year's Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story is the film for you. (Unless, of course, you're an actual football fan and not a casual viewer like me, in which case, maybe skip this one.) But really, the most exciting part of this film is entirely because of Holland Roden and Matthew Daddario. In other words, this one's especially suited for the Teen Wolf (2011) and Shadowhunters (2016) fans.

Roden has consistently been a part of all the best Hallmark movies, so if nothing else, I would be seated just for her. But it's going to be exciting regardless to see how the network not only honors another football team, but also the community behind it, which is exactly what makes the films so wholesome. A Bills Love Story releases on November 22.

The More the Merrier (2025)

Sure to be an exciting Christmas addition for viewers who loved Chesapeake Shores (2016) and this year's Adventures in Love & Birding (2025), The More the Merrier pairs Brendan Penny and Rachel Boston in what's sure to be an emotional ride. The two will play doctors who are snowed in during the holidays at their hospital while three women simultaneously go into labor. It's surely not going to be anything like The Pitt (2025), but forced proximity is always a fun trope, so it's bound to be entertaining.

The film releases on November 28, and we can also be sure that the chemistry between the actors will make every bit of the tense situation lighthearted and wholesome. These stars generally make every film they're in delightful, so we're bound to watch something extra special with this one.

Christmas at the Catnip Cafe (2025)

The title for this movie alone is enough to sell me. Christmas at the Catnip Cafe? Yes, please. Whatever that means, I'd like to be there, too. But to top things off, the movie stars Erin Cahill and Paul Campbell, who are always impeccable in the Hallmark movies they're in. We don't yet know much about the premise, as the film isn't set to release until November 30, but presumably the two will be co-owners of a cat cafe.

The premise sounds so silly that this detail alone is bound to make it fun because Hallmark really is at its best when it mixes outlandish plots. Plus, two people who may or may not get off on the wrong foot, then eventually fall in love? It's every romance fan's dream with a bonus of cats in the mix.

She’s Making a List (2025)

Starring Hallmark legends Andrew Walker and Lacey Chabert, She's Making a List is undoubtedly going to be one of the best Hallmark movies in 2025 solely because of the two leads. But the best part of all? This one's geared toward the viewers who love the single dad trope. Sign us up. Front and center, I'll be seated on December 6. 

Interestingly, the film is also set to be a whimsical one where Chabert's character will be helping Santa in some sort of program designed to list out naughty or nice because he's overwhelmed. Does it sound absurd? Yes. But like Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper! Sometimes the movies that have the most absurd premises end up being the most delightful ones. And again, with these two as the leads, we're in for a treat.

The Christmas Baby (2025)

Hallmark's The Christmas Baby is for every person who wonders whether the network knows how to give women careers and happy endings. Spoiler: they can. And they can be members of the LGBTQ+ community, too, which is an even lovelier addition. Starring Ali Liebert, Katherine Barrell, Barbara Niven, and more, the movie will likely be a heartwarming tearjerker as it's not something the network has done before.

Releasing on December 21, The Christmas Baby is set to follow a married couple navigating through their careers while a baby is also dropped on their doorstep, making them realize that they'd like to adopt him. Stories about adoption often have a way of evoking comfort; pair it with the magic of the holidays, and we're bound for a happy ending that'll hit hard.

In 2024, Hulu offered one of the best Black Friday streaming deals of the year, letting users access its platform for just $0.99/month for 12 months. A similar deal is expected to drop in 2025, giving countless subscribers access to the streaming home of numerous award-winning TV programs and movies, holiday favorites, and an excellent selection of reality TV.

If you’ve got Hulu’s Black Friday deal and are looking for the best things to watch, our guide compiles the 10 best shows and movies on the platform.

The Bachelor (2002-Present)

If you’re a fan of reality TV, you can’t go wrong with The Bachelor. Each season of the show follows an eligible bachelor, who must choose a fiancée from a list of potential candidates by the end of the season. The bachelor gets to know candidates through several exotic and romantic group or one-on-one dates, eliminating one each week until his future fiancée remains. 

The Bachelor is really the epitome of guilty pleasure when it comes to reality TV. Viewers go in knowing the premise is outlandish, but can’t help but be sucked into the juicy drama, scandal, and shocking twists and turns. You get to watch, relax, and put in little effort besides snarking on the contestants. If you’re a sucker for guilty pleasure reality TV like Love is Blind (2020), you’ll love The Bachelor and be pleased to know that three seasons are available to stream on Hulu.

Only Murders in the Building (2021-Present)

Only Murders in the Building is arguably Hulu’s most successful and recognizable original. The crime dramedy centers on Mabel (Selena Gomez), Oliver (Martin Short), and Charles (Steve Martin), three true crime enthusiasts who decide to take their fandom to the next level and solve a series of murders in their apartment complex.

It’s no surprise the series has been a hit for Hulu, given its star-studded cast and guest appearances, its balance of humor and mystery, and its witty, satirical take on true crime obsession. Only Murders in the Building feels refreshing, creative, and a little whimsical and charming, reminiscent of Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club (2025) in its comforting atmosphere. The binge-worthy series is an excellent starting place for newcomers to Hulu.

The Bear (2022-Present)

FX’s The Bear streams on Hulu and is another major draw to the streaming platform. The series tells the story of Carmy Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White), an acclaimed New York chef who returns home to run his late brother’s failing Italian beef shop. Like Only Murders in the Building, The Bear attracts attention with its rotating cast of star-studded guest appearances each season and its refreshing originality. 

However, it’s a much more intense and emotional alternative, as it delves deeply into topics of family dysfunction, grief, and substance abuse. Even so, The Bear manages its comedy and drama well, never getting too dark. It also serves as an excellent representation of the culinary industry, raising awareness for the stress and challenges within it. Whether you want a deep dive into the culinary industry in the vein of Burnt (2015) or a heartrending family saga, The Bear is for you.

Flamin’ Hot (2023)

Hulu’s original movie, Flamin’ Hot, is a biographical drama that follows Richard Montañez's (Jesse Garcia) journey from a janitor at Frito-Lay to the creator of the beloved snack, Hot Cheetos. Although the story’s authenticity is questionable, Flamin’ Hot is still highly enjoyable, inspirational, and relatable. It accurately conveys the struggles of immigrants and families to make ends meet, while also offering a bit of hope as it follows one man’s incredible fortitude and drive.

Flamin’ Hot is the kind of movie you watch when you’re looking for a feel-good story. Some may gripe about the film’s authenticity and realism, but others will love its heart, humor, and comforting vibes. Viewers who love movies inspired by true stories of incredible success, like Air (2023) and Joy (2015), will especially enjoy Flamin’ Hot.

No One Will Save You (2023)

No One Will Save You is one of Hulu’s most unique original movies. The sci-fi horror movie centers on Brynn Adams (Kaitlyn Dever), a young woman whose isolated lifestyle takes a strange turn when alien invaders arrive at her home. No One Will Save You stands out in the horror genre, given that it has a notable lack of dialogue, featuring just five words throughout its duration.

Despite its largely wordless premise, the film conveys an incredible amount of emotion through Dever’s fantastic performance and the compelling themes of trauma, regret, and forgiveness. The film is equal parts chilling and thought-provoking, using its extraterrestrial home invasion to frame larger ideas. Fans of creative and thoughtful horror movies, like Weapons (2025) and A Quiet Place (2018), will be most drawn to No One Will Save You.

The Artful Dodger (2023-Present)

Hulu and Disney+’s The Artful Dodger is a hidden gem on Hulu and a clever take on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. In the series, the Artful Dodger (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) tries to outrun his past as a pickpocket and establish himself as a successful surgeon, an increasingly difficult feat as his former friend, the notorious Fagin (David Thewlis), returns to his life. Although the series didn’t receive much fanfare, it’s a riveting period heist drama that offers a new and intriguing spin on Dickens’ familiar tale.

It has a little bit of everything: romance, swashbuckling adventure, thievery, and friendship. Brodie-Sangster and Thewlis make quite the on-screen duo, presenting audiences with a found family dynamic that will warm their hearts. Although the 1800s medical aspects can be a little grisly, The Artful Dodger is ultimately a lot of fun and will be returning to Disney+ and Hulu with a second season.

Shōgun (2024-Present)

FX’s Shōgun is streaming on Hulu, giving subscribers access to one of the biggest shows of 2024. The historical drama brings feudal Japan to life in stunning detail as it tells the story of Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), who finds himself targeted by his political rivals within the Council of Five Elders. Shōgun is a riveting watch, reminiscent of Game of Thrones (2011) and Vikings (2013) in its brutality, scale, and exquisite detail.

The series truly does justice to James Clavell’s sprawling novel of the same name, offering heartstopping battle sequences, magnetic performances, and a thrilling political game. If you’re looking for a beautifully crafted, high-quality, stunning series, you can’t go wrong with Shōgun.

Nutcrackers (2024)

Nutcrackers is an excellent Hulu original movie for viewers seeking to get into the holiday spirit. The holiday film centers on Michael Maxwell (Ben Stiller), a workaholic bachelor who struggles to make it through the holidays caring for his four estranged, orphaned nephews. It’s a surprisingly underrated holiday gem that pays homage to The Nutcracker with its ballet sequences and nods to theatre, but it also stands well on its own as a heartwarming family saga.

Nutcrackers is charming and funny, but it also goes a bit deeper than its premise may suggest. The film poignantly explores grief, family connection, and the innocence of childhood through its tearjerking story and gorgeous cinematography. Viewers seeking something warm and emotional for the holidays, similar to It’s A Wonderful Life (1946), will love Nutcrackers.

Alien: Earth (2025-Present)

FX on Hulu’s Alien: Earth proved to be one of the biggest shows of 2025. As its title suggests, the series brings the Alien franchise to Earth, where several powerful corporations seek to profit from the Xenomorph and other alien species. Alien: Earth is a must-see for fans of the Alien franchise, as it expands the Alien universe in an exciting, refreshing, and profound direction.

It offers the iconic thrills, sci-fi horror, suspense, and cinematography of the films, while also ensuring the story and setting are distinct. The TV format proves a strong medium for conveying more complex themes than the movies, as Alien: Earth delves into what it means to be human and the dangers of corporate power. It’s an excellent choice for subscribers seeking the newest and most exciting shows Hulu has to offer.

Joy to the World (2025)

Hulu’s newest original holiday movie, Joy to the World, is perfect for new subscribers during the holiday season. The film tells the story of Joy Edwards (Emmanuelle Chriqui), a lifestyle guru who convinces her friend, Max (Chad Michael Murray), to pose as her husband for the holidays so she can keep up the illusion of her perfect, fabricated life on social media. It’s funny, outlandish, and has that distinct, charming but cheesy Hallmark vibe.

Joy to the World is the perfect watch for viewers seeking comfort and lighthearted holiday entertainment. The movie is fun, romantic, and has an irresistible festive atmosphere. Although Joy to the World isn’t the most sophisticated holiday movie, it’s perfect for viewers who love the lighter side of the holiday genre, like Hot Frosty (2024) and Our Little Secret (2024). 

Every December, as holiday playlists start looping Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas," something strange happens. People willingly queue up some of the worst Christmas movies ever made. These are the misfit toys of holiday cinema. The films that critics roasted, yet somehow remain part of our annual viewing traditions.

Maybe it's the exaggerated cheer or the unintentional hilarity of A-listers trying too hard in tinsel-covered disasters that keep people coming back. But whether we watch them ironically or out of genuine nostalgia, these flawed festive films, which can be found on Netflix, Hulu, andmore, own a special place in our hearts.

Jingle All the Way (1996)

If Christmas consumerism ever needed a mascot, it would be Arnold Schwarzenegger in Jingle All the Way. This classic holiday comedy follows a desperate dad racing through Minneapolis on Christmas Eve to find a Turbo Man action figure for his son. But his quest spirals into full-blown madness when another dad (Sinbad) is eying the same toy. Critics slammed the movie for its uneven tone, calling it a cynical commentary on capitalism wrapped in slapstick humor.

But that's exactly what makes Jingle All the Way irresistible. Schwarzenegger's over-the-top performance, Sinbad's manic energy, and the sheer absurdity of grown men wrestling over a toy perfectly capture the stress of the holiday rush. It's the cinematic equivalent of last-minute shopping at Target, which makes it super relatable. It's ideal for families who love their Christmas movies with a dash of cartoonish charm, sort of like The Santa Clause (1994).

Jack Frost (1998)

Few Christmas movies are as unintentionally disturbing as Jack Frost. Michael Keaton stars as a dad who dies in a car accident, only to be reincarnated as a snowman so that he can spend time with his young son. And it's as weird as it sounds. Critics dismissed the movie as bizarre, calling its CGI snowman nightmare fuel. Yet, over time, the story has melted its way into a strange corner of pop culture nostalgia.

The film's clumsy attempt at heartfelt sentimentality, mixed with dated late-90s effects, gives it an earnest charm newer Christmas films rarely attempt. It's a snow-covered fever dream that's so wrong it's right once you get over the odd premise. If you can look past the odd Groundhog Day (1993) adjacent story arc, Jack Frost is a great viewing for the whole family.

Christmas with the Kranks (2004)

Based on John Grisham's novel Skipping Christmas, Christmas with the Kranks should have been a cozy satire about the pressure of holiday conformity. Instead, it became one of the most critically maligned Christmas movies of all time. Jamie Lee Curtis and Tim Allen star as a couple who decide to skip the Christmas celebrations altogether, until their daughter decides to come home for the holidays, which forces them back into the festive spirit.

Critics tore into the movie for its mean-spirited tone, calling it a nightmare version of small-town cheer. And yet, that heightened hysteria is what makes it weirdly watchable. There's a campy delight in seeing Allen and Curtis drenched in fake snow, battling decorations, and screaming about ham. It makes for perfect comfort viewing for anyone who has felt the pressure that comes with the holidays.

Deck the Halls (2006)

If neighborly rivalry ever needed a Christmas anthem, Deck the Halls would be it. Danny DeVito and Matthew Broderick star as suburban dads locked in a holiday light war so intense it could literally be seen from space. Critics loathed the film's shrill humor and implausible premise, calling it a soulless battle of egos.

Still, Deck the Halls remains a guilty holiday pleasure. DeVito is gleefully unhinged, Broderick plays the idealistic family man with perfect exasperation, and the whole thing feels like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) on too much eggnog. It's best enjoyed with friends and a sense of humor, especially if your own neighborhood's holiday decorating contest gets a little competitive.

Four Christmases (2008)

Four Christmases follows an unhappy couple (Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn) trying to avoid Christmas by going on vacation to Fiji, only to be roped into visiting all four of their divorced parents after their flight gets canceled. Critics called it cynical and joyless. But audiences didn't care because families argue, and not every gathering is picture-perfect.

Vaughn's sardonic vibe paired with Witherspoon's exasperation turn this awkward comedy into a therapeutic watch for anyone who's ever survived an overstuffed family Christmas. It's not heartwarming in the traditional sense, but it does remind us that messy holidays are usually the most memorable ones. If you enjoyed Surviving Christmas (2004), this movie is a must.

Starting with Batman Begins (2005), Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight (2008) trilogy ends with a perfect conclusion in The Dark Knight Rises (2012), leaving behind a tremendous legacy for the Caped Crusader and everything he stood for. Timely, impactful, and brilliantly directed from start to finish, everything about the movies was not only incredible then, but still holds up today, making them some of the best comic book adaptations we have. 

As a director, Nolan is known for frequently collaborating with various actors (for instance, Oppenheimer's [2023] Cillian Murphy was the Scarecrow), and some cast members of The Dark Knight Rises can also be found in other films from the director that've become just as memorable in the industry. Still, every actor has their role—the one you immediately think of every time their name comes up, so here's where you know The Dark Knight Rises cast from and where you can find their most famous films on HBO Max, Disney+, and more.

Christian Bale - American Psycho (2000)

Every DC fan has their favorite Batman, and all for valid reasons, but objectively, bringing the complex character to life with a director like Nolan and a star like Christian Bale equates to a different type of greatness. Bale is, and will forever be, my personal favorite Batman, but it's in large part because of how he captures Bruce Wayne's guilt, grief, and tortured agony all throughout the films, even as he's in the mask. What Bale does with the role is groundbreaking in more ways than one.

For many people, Batman is indeed Christian Bale's most famous role. However, other fans also come aboard trusting the actor's range from his work as another famous character, Patrick Bateman, in American Psycho. Whether viewers have seen either of the movies or not, Bale being the face of them ensures that even those who rarely know such information can pinpoint the common denominator between these two. 

Michael Caine - The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

If Bruce Wayne is the most important character in The Dark Knight Rises, then Alfred Pennyworth is the undeniable heart of the film, and Sir Michael Caine's impeccable, profoundly moving performances throughout the trilogy are the reason why. Every Alfred is special in the Batman universe, but what Caine brought to the narrative was indescribable from start to finish. As the final face of the film and the character whose heart is the largest, he makes the trilogy as warm as it is.

​​And yet, Caine is also the type of prolific actor whose filmography is so grand and inimitable that it's nearly impossible to deem one role as his most famous. For many, likely, it'll indeed be Alfred, but he's also played another legend to perfection: Scrooge in The Muppet Christmas Carol. The adaptation is one of the most renowned versions of Charles Dickens' story and simultaneously the most popular of the Muppet films, and Caine's performance is a large part of the reason why. Like Alfred, the gentle heart he brings is perfect in every way. 

Morgan Freeman - The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Lucius Fox is a quieter, cooler character in The Dark Knight trilogy, but Morgan Freeman is a tremendous star to fill his shoes and make this version of the character the most memorable one to date. In a film that's this massive, it's hard to imagine anyone else in the story with how much Freeman does to layer the character and make him matchless.

As the literal voice of God in countless commercials and voiceovers, it's also near impossible to pin down Morgan Freeman's most famous role into one single film or TV show. You know his name, even if you're the type of person who generally doesn't remember celebrities. There are few actors with the type of legacy he holds, and there's a reason for it. However, if we have to choose one, then it's a film with just as much of an impact as Freeman's acting prowess, and that's The Shawshank Redemption. Largely considered one of the best films of all time, the story's timeless message about resilience and hope makes it the type of movie for every type of viewer.  

Gary Oldman - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

Gary Oldman has an indescribable knack for playing stoic members of law enforcement with a distinct personality, and everything that he brings to The Dark Knight Rises is fantastic. Bale's titular character has a number of memorable moments with every character in the story, and the range that both he and Oldman bring in the final few moments is nothing short of exceptional. 

And yet, for many, many people, Gary Oldman won't be known as James Gordon, but rather Sirius Black from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Oldman had a lot on his plate as he took on one of the fan-favorite characters from the book, and he did so all while making it entirely his own. Sirius is great on paper, but he's even more incredible and made better because of Oldman's embodiment in the films. So while even those who might not be familiar with the stories likely have seen GIFS of Oldman's character and some of his most iconic lines.

Tom Hardy - Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Tom Hardy was the undeniable breakout star from The Dark Knight Rises, and while his role didn't touch the legacy built by The Joker in The Dark Knight, it's because of him that Bane has a more significant reputation today than he did before. Hardy delivers something truly unforgettable in his voice work, allowing the character to shine throughout, even as his face is mostly covered. For many, it's likely still his most famous role.

However, he was also in Inception (2010) with director Christopher Nolan, allowing his performance from then to be the reason why many were so excited about Bane. Still, many fans may likely always praise his work in the critically acclaimed Mad Max: Fury Road (2015). Like in The Dark Knight Rises, the stakes are so high throughout the sci-fi feature that so much of the character building depends entirely on what the performers deliver, and with it, Hardy proves that there's no role he can't effortlessly escape to. 

Anne Hathaway - The Princess Diaries (2001)

Anne Hathaway is also the kind of star who's known for a number of incredible roles to various fans, like her award-nominated work in Les Misérables (2012) or The Devil Wears Prada (2006), but she'll likely always wear the crown as Mia Thermopolis, Queen of Genovia from The Princess Diaries. As a career-defining role, The Princess Diaries gave Hathaway solid room to not only show off her chops, but to also create a role that'd later become a millennial staple.

Hathaway's incredible range as an actress and the type of films she's been in effectively show off just how much she's capable of and why she's so perfectly cast in The Dark Knight Rises. Pair Mia's dorkiness with Selina's stoicism, and we get concrete proof of this detail that she can embody two vastly different characters and do so perfectly. 

Marion Cotillard - La vie en Rose (2007)

Like Tom Hardy, Marion Cotillard was also in Christopher Nolan's Inception, yet her work in The Dark Knight Rises is still the most haunting performance in the film. For those who don't know the comics and caught everything as it unfolded, Cotillard's performance makes the film as angsty as it is. She gives us one of the most quietly memorable female villains of all time, which also touches on human complexities with tremendous depth.

And while Inception might be one of her most famous roles, before that, she breathed incredible life into her embodiment of Édith Piaf in her biopic, La vie en Rose (2007). Cotillard's transformation as the renowned singer garnered favorable critical and fan reception, making it the type of performance that's not only a must-watch but the type of biopic that glistens entirely because of the star at its helm.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt - 500 Days of Summer (2009)

Joseph Gordon-Levitt's work as John Blake/Robin results in one of the most memorable performances in The Dark Knight trilogy, giving the film a warmth and heart that make it the most underrated one of the trilogy. Most people understandably came out of it praising Bale and Hardy for their work, but the softness in John Blake was an underrated and significant inclusion that I personally still think about.

Like many of the actors on this list, Joseph Gordon-Levitt was also in Christopher Nolan's Inception, and while that's my favorite role of his, his most famous would arguably be 500 Days of Summer. Gordon-Levitt's charm in the romantic comedy makes the film a must-watch for countless reasons. Overly quirky and undeniably intriguing, the realism in its depiction of the dating pool is exactly what makes it work for so many people.

Joey King - The Kissing Booth (2018)

For me, Joey King's most memorable role will always be Ramona and Beezus (2010), but it's understandable that her most famous movies would be The Kissing Booth trilogy, which also starred Jacob Elordi. The trilogy might not be extraordinary by any stretch of the imagination, but the vast popularity of the films grew a hefty following from Netflix and signaled to executives that more romance was welcome.

And yet, many people might not even realize that, though Joey King's role in The Dark Knight Rises is incredibly brief, it's still significant. As the actress who plays young Talia al Ghul, she does plenty with the screentime she's given, making it clear that her determination to escape is driven entirely by vengeance. King's small role makes Marion Cotillard's more impactful. 

Netflix recently dropped Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein (2025), offering a refreshing and exciting iteration of Mary Shelley’s classic gothic horror novel of the same name. The film is already climbing the charts, earning praise for the unique interpretation of Shelley’s work and Jacob Elordi’s performance as Frankenstein’s Monster.

If Frankenstein left you craving more Gothic horror, here are eight more excellent Gothic horror movies and TV shows you can watch next on Netflix.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

Bram Stoker’s Dracula is part of Netflix’s streaming library and offers an excellent take on Dracula, one of the most iconic Gothic horror novels besides Frankenstein. The film follows the vampire Count Dracula (Gary Oldman), who becomes infatuated with his solicitor’s (Keanu Reeves) fiancée, Mina Harker (Winona Ryder). The cast alone is reason enough to watch the movie, especially considering Oldman’s mesmerizing iteration of Dracula.

In addition to strong performances, Bram Stoker’s Dracula is an all-around well-crafted Gothic horror. It moves away from much of the campiness of early Dracula adaptations, offering a thrilling blend of romance and terror. Bram Stoker’s Dracula will especially appeal to fans of Gothic horror with vampires, such as Crimson Peak (2015) and Let the Right One In (2018). 

I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House (2016)

I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House is a Netflix original horror film from director Osgood Perkins. In the movie, live-in-nurse Lily (Ruth Wilson) takes a job caring for elderly, retired horror author Iris Blum (Paula Prentiss), but comes to suspect the house is haunted. The film makes excellent use of its simple, understated style, evoking a subtly eerie, haunting atmosphere that keeps viewers on their toes.

The supernatural elements, haunted house, tension, and dread come together to make quite an excellent work of Gothic horror. Like Frankenstein, it offers more of a slow-burn horror style that is delightfully chilling. I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House is also a must-see for fans of Perkins’ other supernatural horror works, The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2017) and Longlegs (2024).

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

The Haunting of Hill House is a Netflix original series from horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan. The series centers on the five Crain siblings who, as adults, are forced to confront their childhood in the haunted Hill House. It’s one of the very best haunted house horror series on Netflix, evoking Gothic horror through its haunting transformation of the Hill House into a realm of sheer terror.

On top of offering a genuinely terrifying haunted-house story, The Haunting of Hill House is also a complex family saga that delves deep into grief, trauma, and loss. It’s a lot like I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House due to its excellent use of suspense, tension, and subtle dread, though it offers an arguably even better payoff in the end. The Haunting of Hill House is especially an excellent watch for fans of The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020) and The Terror (2018).

Interview with the Vampire (2022-Present)

AMC’s Interview with the Vampire is available to stream on Netflix. It’s a TV adaptation of Anne Rice’s novel of the same name, which follows journalist Daniel Molloy (Eric Bogosian) as he interviews vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) about his immortal life in New Orleans. The series is superior to the film adaptation, offering an excellent rendition of the source material that remains true to its Gothic tone while also expanding it in new and exciting ways.

Filled with Gothic brilliance and vampire fantasy while elevating the source materials' LGBTQ+ themes, Interview with the Vampire is everything fans could hope for from Rice’s book. It’s an excellent choice for fans of Bram Stoker’s Dracula seeking something even more provocative and brimming with bloodlust.

Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities (2022)

Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities is a Netflix original horror anthology. It features a collection of del Toro’s favorite horror stories, each directed by a different horror filmmaker. Given del Toro’s penchant for Gothic horror, it’s no surprise that most of the stories in the anthology are told in Gothic fashion. Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities offers a treasure trove for fans of impeccable storytelling who harbor a morbid curiosity for all things haunting.

The stories in the series are spooky, haunting, and captivating, evoking the sensation of telling scary stories around the fire, except the stories come from some of the best names in horror. The quantity and quality of the stories mean there’s a little something for everyone. Viewers who loved Frankenstein will be pleased to find this Gothic hidden gem from del Toro.

Wednesday (2022-Present)

Wednesday, another Netflix original series, is an excellent coming-of-age Gothic horror tale for younger viewers. The series centers on Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega), as she begins investigating a mysterious homicide at her parents’ alma mater, Nevermore Academy. It's bursting with Tim Burton’s signature Gothic flair, serving both as an intriguing teen fantasy detective series and a celebration of all things morbid and macabre.

Wednesday is a must-see for fans of the Addams Family, as it captures the family's Gothic aesthetic. It upholds the family’s kookiness and the themes of acceptance from the earlier films, while also introducing fascinating coming-of-age and mystery elements. Fans of Ortega and Burton’s other collaboration, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), will especially enjoy Wednesday.

The Pale Blue Eye (2022)

The Pale Blue Eye is a Netflix original movie in which retired detective August Landor (Christian Bale) enlists the help of a young cadet, Edgar Allan Poe (Harry Melling), to solve a series of murders at the United States Military Academy. It’s an excellent adaptation of Louis Bayard’s book of the same name, and a great choice for viewers seeking to add a touch of mystery to their Gothic horror.

You’ll be quickly sucked into the central investigation in The Pale Blue Eye, bolstered by the period setting and strong performances from Bale and Melling. The subtle eeriness, drama, and morbid atmosphere make it feel like a horror story straight from Poe himself. Fans of Gothic horror inspired by Poe’s life, such as The Raven (2012), will love The Pale Blue Eye.

The Fall of the House of Usher (2023)

Netflix original series The Fall of the House of Usher offers a modern take on Poe’s short story of the same name. It tells the story of Rodrick Usher (Bruce Greenwood), the CEO of Fortunato Pharmaceuticals, who must confront his sordid past when his children begin dying in freak accidents. The show is a deliciously creepy and grisly crossover of Poe and Flanagan, bursting with Gothic flair and tributes to the poet’s most significant works.

It’s creative, features countless jump scares, and adapts Poe’s work perfectly for modern audiences. An eat-the-rich story has never been as terrifying yet satisfying as The Fall of the House of Usher. Viewers who loved Flanagan's The Haunting of Hill House but want a little more Poe influence will find The Fall of the House of Usher a must-see. 

Some actors make such a massive impression in the roles they take on that separating them from their characters can feel impossible. Sarah Michelle Gellar is one of those rare talents. From the moment she picked up a stake as Buffy Summers, Gellar became part teen idol, part scream queen, part quietly brilliant comedic force.

Her filmography spans genres from supernatural thrillers to romantic comedies, and each role reflects a different facet of what made Gellar such a magnetic presence. In honor of her varied and unforgettable career, here's a look back at the 10 best Sarah Michelle Gellar movies and TV shows, which can be found on Netflix, HBO Max, and more.

Scooby-Doo (2002)

Scooby-Doo brings The Mystery Inc. gang together in live-action form as they head to Spooky Island, a spring break hotspot plagued by supernatural entities. As they investigate eerie happenings, long-standing tensions resurface, and they realize the mystery is more personal than they ever expected. The film is a kaleidoscope of childhood nostalgia and unexpectedly sharp character chemistry.

Gellar's Daphne trades in her damsel-in-distress status for high kicks, proving once and for all that pretty doesn't mean passive. The film walks the line between parody and sincerity, giving just enough winks to fans while genuinely reinventing old tropes. Anyone who grew up with The New Scooby-Doo Mysteries (1984) or wants a colorful, kid-friendly mystery will love this film.

I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)

After a tragic accident during summer vacation, four friends decide to bury the truth. But a year later, someone knows what they did, and they're being hunted by a killer who refuses to let the past stay buried. While the film is arguably one of the best slasher films of all time, at its core, I Know What You Did Last Summer is about the emotional residue of choices we wish we could undo.

Gellar's portrayal of Helen Shivers, the beauty queen haunted by a nightmare she helped create, is a brilliant addition to the story. Her iconic chase scene remains one of the most gripping moments in '90s horror. I Know What You Did Last Summer is perfect for fans of glossy slashers, like Urban Legend (1998), and anyone who likes their horror tinged with guilt and regret.

Cruel Intentions (1999)

Set in a world of Upper East Side privilege, Cruel Intentions follows step-siblings Kathryn (Gellar) and Sebastian (Ryan Phillippe), who scheme to manipulate their peers for sport. But their twisted game takes a darker turn with the arrival of a new student. Over time, real emotions threaten their carefully constructed facades and their place in the high school hierarchy.

Gellar expertly portrays the seductive ice queen who easily rules the emotional minefields of teenage cruelty. Upon closer examination, the story is less about the scandal and more about who holds the most social power, who loses it, and what it eventually costs. Viewers who enjoy high-society melodramas, like Gossip Girl (2007), with a dark streak and sharp dialogue will love this movie.

The Grudge (2004)

The Grudge follows an American nurse named Karen Davis (Gellar) who takes a job in Tokyo, caring for a woman in a house where something feels off. The home is cursed by a violent past that won't let go. The curse, born from murder and rage, attaches itself to anyone who enters, dragging them into a cycle of death. The film unfolds in fragments, following the curse as it travels from person to person.

Gellar is quite incredible as Karen. Instead of screaming in fear, her character drowns in horrified silence due to a total sense of helplessness. It's a haunting reminder that some horror stories don't want to be solved. They want to swallow you whole. The Grudge is ideal for horror fans who prefer creeping dread to jump scares, and anyone curious about Japanese horror remakes like The Ring (2002).

Simply Irresistible (1999)

Simply Irresistible begins when Amanda Shelton (Gellar) inherits a restaurant after her mother's death. She is unable to cook at first, but everything changes when she meets a strange man at a local market. Amanda suddenly finds her dishes quite literally infused with magic. Her food starts changing people's moods, and as she explores her newfound gift, she falls for a man who might just change her life, too.

This film throws realism out the window in favor of whimsical charm, while Gellar brings a soft luminosity to Amanda, who is slowly learning to trust herself and her abilities. It is a definite must-watch for romantic-comedy fans who like their stories sprinkled with a little culinary magic. Think 2000’s Chocolat.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)

Buffy the Vampire Slayer  follows the titular Buffy Summers (Gellar), who just wants to be a normal teenager. But fate has other plans. She's The Slayer, a chosen warrior tasked with defending the world from vampires, demons, and all things that go bump in the night. After moving to the seemingly normal Sunnydale, Buffy balances heartbreak and apocalypses with the help of her Watcher and friends.

Across seven seasons, Buffy the Vampire Slayer evolves from monster-of-the-week antics into a narrative about growing up and what it means to carry power as a young woman. And Gellar was perfectly cast in the titular role. The series is a great pick for fans who want their supernatural action mixed with coming-of-age themes. A similar dose of girl power can be found in Charmed (1998).

The Crazy Ones (2013–2014)

The Crazy Ones is set in a high-powered ad agency. The sitcom follows eccentric genius Simon Roberts (Robin Williams) and his adult daughter Sydney as they try to balance creativity with the pressures of business while also learning how to navigate their complicated father-daughter relationship. As Sydney, Gellar trades in demons for deadlines, showing she can still be powerful without throwing a punch.

The show's cancellation was a loss, but its brief run still gave a rare reminder that relationships can be healed in the gray areas between commercials and confessions. Viewers who miss workplace comedies with heart, like Ally McBeal (1997), and want to see Gellar hold her own opposite Robin Williams, will enjoy this short-lived series.

Ringer (2011–2012)

Ringer follows Bridget Kelly, a recovering addict on the run, trying to escape a dangerous life and a dangerous man. Desperate, she turns to her estranged twin sister, Siobhan, who is wealthy, elegant, and seemingly in control of every part of her life. But when Siobhan mysteriously disappears, Bridget seizes the chance to start over by assuming her sister's identity. Only it's not the fresh start she hoped for, as Siobhan's life is filled with secrets, lies, and betrayals.

Gellar plays both Bridget and Siobhan in Ringer, slipping between vulnerability and cold calculation like a whispered threat. It's a great pick for fans of twist-filled thrillers, double lives stories, and identity swaps, like the one featured in Revenge (2011).

Wolf Pack (2023)

Wolf Pack begins when a raging California wildfire awakens something ancient and terrifying, which changes the lives of four teenagers forever. Bitten during the chaos, they discover that they're connected by a mysterious and powerful bond. As they begin to uncover their supernatural identities, they also realize they're being hunted.

At the center of the Wolf Pack mystery is Kristin Ramsey, an arson investigator with secrets of her own. Gellar plays Kristin with a natural steeliness and a presence that grounds the show. As the teens try to piece together what's happening to them, Kristin becomes both an ally and an enigma. Teen Wolf (2011) aficionados and anyone looking for a darker, serialized supernatural drama will enjoy this series. In some ways, it’s got a similar vibe to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, thanks to the supernatural storyline.

Dexter: Original Sin (2024)

Dexter: Original Sin chronicles the early years of Dexter Morgan (Patrick Gibson) as a conflicted, brilliant college student who's just beginning to understand his dark urges. After a traumatic encounter awakens something in him, he's taken under the wing of his adoptive father, Harry Morgan (Christian Slater), who teaches him how to kill without leaving a trace.

Gellar plays Tanya Martin, the sharp, no-nonsense homicide captain who brings a different kind of intensity to the Dexter (2006) world. Although her screen time is measured, she owns every one of her scenes. Crime-drama fans eager to see the origins of an anti-hero will find this series very entertaining. It is reminiscent of the 2013 series, Hannibal. 

 Like most actors, Matthew Perry began his career with several small roles on television and in film. While his roles in the '80s may not have been all that memorable, the actor finally got his big break in 1994 when he was cast as Chandler Bing in Friends (1994). After that, Perry became a household name and went on to star in some really great movies.

The release of the Peacock documentary, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy (2025) reignited interest in the late actor's long career. It would be difficult to list all his roles, but here is a helpful guide that includes Perry's best movies and TV shows, ranked from best to worst, during and after his tenure on Friends. From Hulu to Max, most platforms house a Perry film or two. 

6. Mr. Sunshine (2011-2012)

After Friends ended, Perry found himself starring in the sitcom Mr. Sunshine, which he also co-created. The story, which only lasted one season, follows Ben Donovan (Perry), a slightly self-absorbed manager of a second-tier sports arena called the Sunshine Center. The show is essentially a workplace comedy, with Perry's character trying to bring calm to the daily chaos at the arena and his almost non-existent personal life. A quirky supporting cast surrounds him, including Allison Janney, who plays his boss, Crystal Cohen.

Perry once again shines in a role that plays to his sarcastic, neurotic, and just barely holding-it-all-together strengths. This short-lived series is perfect for fans of workplace comedies or viewers who want to see Perry's neurotic humor in a post-Friends setting. Despite Perry's sharp wit, Mr. Sunshine couldn't match the heart or laughs of the other entries on this list, leaving it in the last spot.

5. 17 Again (2009)

Perry took on a more meaningful comedic role in 17 Again, sharing the character of Mike O'Donnell with Zac Efron. Perry plays the older version of Mike, a man who let life pass him by and finds himself constantly thinking about what could have been. Thanks to a mysterious twist of fate, he wakes up as his 17-year-old self (Efron) and gets a second shot at making things right.

While it might seem like more of an Efron movie, Perry has a weary sort of charm that endears Mike to the audience and gives the story its emotional core. The film will appeal to teen audiences and adults who appreciate lighthearted redemption stories likeNever Been Kissed (1999). Perry's limited screen time makes 17 Again less essential than The Odd Couple, though its message still resonates.

4. The Odd Couple (2015-2017)

Perry stepped into a classic role with The Odd Couple reboot in 2015, playing the famously uptight Oscar Madison opposite Thomas Lennon's neurotic Felix Unger. This modern take on the legendary mismatched roommate sitcom lets Perry flip the dynamic. This time around, Oscar's the messy sportswriter, not the clean freak. As both star and executive producer, Perry put his own stamp on the show, blending his signature comedic timing with a bunch of quirky new antics.

It is a fun, if underrated, run that gave the actor another chance to lead a comedy series. It's perfect for viewers who enjoy sitcoms like Men at Work (2012), which has a similar vibe. While enjoyable, The Odd Couple lacks the same spark Perry brought to Three to Tango, which is why it falls just below in the ranking.

3. Three to Tango (1999)

After being on Friends for a good few years, Perry was cast in a starring role in the 1999 romantic comedy Three to Tango. The story follows Oscar Novak (Perry) and Peter Steinberg (Oliver Platt), who are hired to design a cultural center. Their new boss, Charles Newman (Dylan McDermott), assumes they are a gay couple and asks Oscar to keep his mistress, Amy Post (Neve Campbell), company. But things get complicated when he starts to fall for Amy. The movie is unforgettable thanks to Perry's nervous charm which makes Oscar relatable despite the absurd lie he's caught in.

Perry's comedic timing gives the film a lot of its spark, even when the script gets silly. Though not as polished as The Whole Nine Yards, Perry's boy-next-door warmth shines through, keeping this romantic comedy higher on the list than some of his later projects. It's a great pick for viewers who enjoy quirky, mistaken-identity stories with a charming lead performance like You've Got Mail (1998).

2. The Whole Nine Yards (2000)

The offbeat comedy The Whole Nine Yards is a darkly funny crime caper with Bruce Willis and Amanda Peet. Perry plays Nicholas "Oz" Oseransky, a mild-mannered dentist who is waiting for the day he can afford to divorce his horrible wife. One day, Oz discovers his new neighbor is the infamous hitman Jimmy "The Tulip" Tudeski (Willis). Between mobsters, mistaken identities, and a few unexpected alliances, Oz gets pulled into a world he's definitely not equipped for.

Perry leans into his classic nervous energy in this film, making Oz both likable and hilariously overwhelmed. It's the perfect choice for fans of dark comedy films filled with crime-driven hijinks and witty dialogue like Analyze This (1999). While not as iconic as Friends, Perry's jittery dentist is a pitch-perfect showcase of his comedic timing, proving he can carry a big-screen role with ease.

1. Friends (1994-2004)

Created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman, Friends chronicles the lives of six people as they try to build their lives in New York City. The sitcom's anchor characters are siblings Monica (Courteney Cox) and Ross Geller (David Schwimmer). Their friend group consists of Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow), Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc), Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston), and Chandler Bing (Perry). Each of them has career and relationship dreams of their own. While the cast is legendary, Perry's performance is arguably the linchpin of the show's humor.

His sarcastic delivery, awkward physicality, and surprising vulnerability made Chandler a breakout favorite and cemented Perry's place as one of television's great comedic actors. This timeless sitcom is perfect for anyone who loves witty ensemble comedy, like How I Met Your Mother (2005), and nostalgic '90s vibes. As Perry's defining role, Friends earns the top spot because nothing else quite matches the career-defining brilliance he delivered as Chandler. 

House of the Dragon (2022) wrapped up its second successful season last year, with Season 3 on the way. The series is an adaptation of George R. R. Martin’s fantasy novel Fire & Blood, telling the story of the reign of House Targaryen and the historical events leading up to the devastating war, The Dance of Dragons.

The show has achieved high critical acclaim and become one of HBO’s most-watched series due to its enormous scope, stunning visuals, and a story filled with political strife and corruption. While you eagerly wait for Season 3, check out our guide for 10 shows like House of the Dragon you can watch on Netflix, Max, Hulu, and more!

Rome (2005-2007)

Rome boasts the same epic scale as House of the Dragon but leans on history rather than fantasy. The series follows Roman soldiers Lucius Vorenus (Kevin McKidd) and Titus Pullo (Ray Stevenson), who witness the historical events leading up to Rome’s transition from a Republic to an Empire. It boasts a sprawling ensemble cast, stunning visuals, exquisite attention to detail, and a thrilling tale of dictators, emperors, wars, and succession struggles.

Rome will wholly transport you to Ancient Rome, capturing the glory of the empire through gorgeous costumes and gritty realism. While not entirely historically accurate, it boasts richer, deeper historical context than typical Ancient Rome TV shows and movies. Viewers seeking the setting of Gladiator (2000) and the sprawling scale of House of the Dragon will love Rome.

The Tudors (2007-2010)

The Tudors is a historical drama that follows the early reign of Henry VIII (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), examining his relationships, desire for an heir, and difficulties in maintaining peace and order in England. Similar to House of the Dragon, The Tudors is quite a spectacle filled with sex, violence, corruption, and powerful families. The similarities between The Tudors and the Game of Thrones franchise may not be coincidental, as many suspect the Tudor dynasty inspired Martin’s work.

While The Tudors has a massive scale, it’s a little more soapy than either Rome or House of the Dragon. It puts the spotlight on the most scandalous aspects of its history, thrilling viewers with a racy, engaging, and dramatic narrative, but still carries a level of sophistication reminiscent of House of the Dragon. The series is an excellent choice if you love scandalous history, such as that tackled in Mary & George (2024).

Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

It’s harder to get closer to House of the Dragon than Game of Thrones, since they take place in the same universe. Game of Thrones is set 200 years before House of the Dragon and follows a series of political conflicts as numerous families attempt to seize the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. Both series take place predominantly on the fictional continent of Westeros and delve into the sexism, vengeance, rivalry, and moral ambiguity that come with the pursuit of power.

Game of Thrones is one of the greatest TV shows ever made, standing apart from other series due to its complex worldbuilding and characterization. Few shows cover as much ground as Game of Thrones does across eight seasons. Its sophistication is on par with that of House of the Dragon and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), though it features higher levels of shock factor and tension.

Vikings (2013-2020)

Vikings is a historical drama inspired by the legend of the Viking Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), who grapples with chieftain Earl Haraldson (Gabriel Byrne) over the direction and expanse of Viking raids. The scope, tone, and blood-spatter of Vikings is similar to House of the Dragon, but it also offers viewers a fascinating look into Norse oral traditions. Although not very historically accurate, it draws viewers in with its epic battle scenes and intriguing characters.

Viewers will especially love the first few seasons, which center on Ragnar and delve deep into the intriguing tale of how he rose from a farmer to a fierce Viking. Like The Tudors, it also blends soapy drama with a historical setting. If you love House of the Dragon and are looking for a show with a similar vibe but a unique historical premise, Vikings is the way to go.

Succession (2018-2023)

Viewers who enjoy House of the Dragon’s political commentary will enjoy Succession. The series follows Logan Roy’s (Brian Cox) adult children as they vie to inherit his global media conglomerate Waystar RoyCo amid his declining health. It goes deeper than House of the Dragon’s tale of a power struggle, offering an in-depth look into a smaller-scale family conflict through a sharp and darkly humorous lens.

Succession feels like a more modern and realistic version of House of the Dragon. It tackles succession struggles, placing them in the context of modern-day conflicts between boomers and millennials, as well as the convoluted world of business and family inheritance. Although the show trades bloody battlefields for business meetings, it still manages to evoke a similar level of tension as House of the Dragon, but with a modern, satirical premise reminiscent of Veep (2012).

The Witcher (2019-Present)

Based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series of the same name, The Witcher follows Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill), a monster hunter who finds himself linked by destiny to Princess Ciri (Freya Allen), a woman from a powerful bloodline. The Witcher boasts House of the Dragon’s blood, sex, and brutal fantasy landscape, but will also appeal to viewers looking for a deeper dive into magic and monsters. It also allows for a more intimate story by trading its sprawling ensemble cast for a few lovable characters, including Cavill’s dashing, gruff, and charismatic Geralt.

Although The Witcher is more magic-based than House of the Dragon, it still features similar politics as it explores power conflicts and political unrest. The series blends politics, drama, and fantasy to create a story rich in character development and storytelling. Viewers seeking the sophistication of House of the Dragon’s storytelling and worldbuilding, but on a smaller scale, will enjoy The Witcher.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022-Present)

Like House of the Dragon, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is an epic fantasy series with meticulous worldbuilding. Inspired by the appendices of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, the series delves into the history of Middle-earth, including the creation of the Rings of Power. The loose interpretation of Tolkien’s work may not appeal to hardcore franchise fans, but it’s an excellent show for viewers eager for additional stories set in Middle-earth.

With cutting-edge visual effects, The Rings of Power is also quite the spectacle. At times, it feels like a cross between House of the Dragon and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005), as it boasts the scale of the former but the more family-friendly, fantastical vibe of the latter. It’s a gorgeous and thrilling take on Middle-earth and will appeal to anyone looking for another detailed, exquisite fantasy world to explore.

Shōgun (2024-2026)

Shōgun is frequently compared to House of the Dragon, as they focus on a succession struggle and are paralleled by few in scope and ambition. The series tells the story of Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), a fictionalized version of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who must use his military strategic brilliance to fend off his enemies and pave a path toward the title of shōgun. 

Like House of the Dragon, Shōgun is a top-tier TV show with electric performances, mesmerizing visuals, and thrilling battle sequences, but it also has the added perk of delving into Japanese history and culture. It’s reminiscent of Rome in its impressive ability to transport viewers into the time period. If you want the scope of House of the Dragon and Rome but with more historical and cultural richness, Shōgun is an excellent alternative.

3 Body Problem (2024-Present)

3 Body Problem comes from the same creators as House of the Dragon’s predecessor, Game of Thrones. The show is an adaptation of Liu Cixin’s Remembrance of Earth’s Past series, offering a twisty sci-fi tale that examines how a Chinese astrophysicist’s extraterrestrial studies during the Cultural Revolution impact a group of Oxford scientists in the present day. 

Like House of the Dragon, 3 Body Problem spans a large expanse of time, adapts an ambitious work previously thought unadaptable, and boasts stunning visuals. However, instead of fantasy, it leans into hard sci-fi, exploring concepts in physics, science, and philosophy. As a result, it’s a much more cerebral show that will delight sci-fi fans and those looking for intimate, complex stories. 3 Body Problem will especially appeal to fans of Foundation (2021) and other works of hard sci-fi.

Those About to Die (2024-Present)

Those About to Die is an epic historical drama about Rome, the center of the Roman Empire, and its attempts to control the population through games, including chariot racing and gladiatorial combat. Although it doesn’t pull off its enormous vision as well as House of the Dragon, it boasts strong performances, spectacular and bloody fight scenes, and an intriguing story of people willing to die in the pursuit of power and glory.

The series parallels Rome with its historical setting and attempts to recreate Ancient Rome on the small screen. Those About to Die also gets into bloodier, grittier territory than Rome, appealing to viewers interested in a brutal spectacle on par with House of the Dragon. If you are looking for the epic scope of House of the Dragon paired with the brutality of Vikings, you’ll love Those About to Die. 

Wolverine is officially a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe after Deadpool & Wolverine (2024). The movie sees Hugh Jackman reprise his iconic role as James Howlett (aka Wolverine) alongside Ryan Reynolds’ Wade Wilson (aka Deadpool). Although this is the first MCU movie Jackman’s Wolverine starred in, he has been portraying the role since 2000.

For viewers interested in catching up on the character’s film history in lieu of the latest movie, this guide will explain how to watch all of Wolverine’s live-action movies in order on Disney+ and more.

X-Men (2000)

X-Men, the first film in the original X-Men series, marks Jackman’s debut as Wolverine. In the movie, Wolverine and Rogue (Anna Paquin) struggle to decide whether their loyalties lie with Professor X (Sir Patrick Stewart) or Magneto (Sir Ian McKellen), two former friends with radically different ideas on how or if humans and mutants should co-exist. 

X-Men is a thought-provoking and action-packed movie that packages themes of discrimination and acceptance in an engaging and suspenseful superhero team-up movie. Jackman shines as the rough and sarcastic Wolverine, who shows hints of vulnerability when confronted with the idea of finding a family with Xavier and the mutants. If you enjoy faithful comic book adaptations with lighter tones, like Thunderbolts* (2025) and The Avengers (2012), you’ll love X-Men.

X2 (2003)

X2 is the sequel to X-Men and puts Wolverine front and center. The film sees the rise of Colonel William Stryker (Brian Cox), a man with knowledge of Wolverine’s past, who seeks to destroy Professor X’s school for mutants. It’s just as well-made as X-Men, with a thoughtful message, superhero action, complex characters, and a nice balance between a lighthearted and mature tone. 

It also caters to Wolverine fans by delving into his complicated past and the beginning of his journey to coming to terms with what happened to him. X2 is a strong superhero movie that will especially appeal to younger viewers as it drives home its themes of acceptance. Viewers who enjoyed X-Men, Spider-Man (2002), and other more lighthearted 2000s superhero movies will like X2.

X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

X-Men: The Last Stand is the final installment in the original X-Men trilogy. The stakes are higher than ever as tensions flare between humans and mutants due to the creation of a cure for mutants. X-Men: The Last Stand is heavy on character development as the mutants are faced with the possibility of removing their powers and leading everyday lives. 

Like X-Men and X2, it maintains thought-provoking themes as it probes the cost of power. However, it is one of the weaker entries in the X-Men series, featuring only surface-level sentiments and some disappointing character arcs. Still, it’s enjoyable for fans of the previous X-Men movies and standard superhero team movies like Justice League (2017).

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

X-Men Origins: Wolverine marks Wolverine’s first solo movie, which serves as a prequel to the X-Men trilogy. The film delves into Logan’s past, including the traumatic manifestation of his mutant powers and the revenge mission that led him to Project X. X-Men Origins: Wolverine is a treat for Wolverine fans, with a passionate and sometimes feral performance from Jackman. 

It satisfactorily tells Wolverine’s origin story, though the complicated history is sometimes a bit difficult to follow. Still, X-Men Origins: Wolverine is perfect for viewers who love a typical superhero origin story like Aquaman (2018) or Black Adam (2022), and it will especially appeal to viewers who love Jackman’s Wolverine.

X-Men: First Class (2011)

X-Men: First Class sees a young Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender) recruit a team of mutants to stop an impending nuclear war. Jackman has only an uncredited cameo in the film as Wolverine, who rejects Xavier and Lehnsherr’s recruitment offer in his typical blunt, gruff fashion. While the cameo is perfect for Wolverine, X-Men: First Class isn’t a good pick for fans seeking a significant Wolverine role. 

However, the film is a fascinating look at the X-Men’s origins. McAvoy and Fassbender are excellent as Xavier and Lehnsherr, powerfully capturing the essence of the characters’ history and friendship. X-Men: First Class’s strong character development, fast pace, and stunning visuals make it an entertaining and emotional superhero movie. Viewers who loved the X-Men movies but prefer superhero films with younger heroes, like Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) or Kingsman: The Secret Service (2015), will love X-Men: First Class.

The Wolverine (2013)

The Wolverine is the sequel to X-Men Origins: Wolverine. The movie takes Wolverine to Japan, where he was once a prisoner of war, as he grapples with his past and gets caught up in a dangerous zaibatsu scheme. The Wolverine is an excellent change of pace and setting in the X-Men franchise, offering an action-packed superhero movie that borders on a crime thriller rife with ninjas, yakuza, and a surprisingly emotional continuation of Wolverine’s story. 

It remains faithful to the source material, treads into darker territory, and does justice to Jackman’s character. Ultimately, The Wolverine is a must-see for fans of Wolverine. The tone most closely resembles the darker, serious tone of Logan (2017), but offsets some of the darkness with humor, offering one of the most balanced and grounded Wolverine movies.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

X-Men: Days of Future Past is the sequel to X-Men: First Class and serves as a crossover between the prequel and original trilogy. In the film, Wolverine travels back in time to seek the help of young Charles and Erik in preventing the future genocide of mutants. X-Men: Days of Future Past is one of the best X-Men movies, perfectly executing a tricky time-travel premise and fixing the series’ timeline by undoing much of X-Men: The Last Stand. 

The ambitious crossover between the prequel and original X-Men casts will thrill viewers, while fans of Wolverine will enjoy seeing him drive the narrative and plot. It capitalizes on all the best aspects of the X-Men films, including the powerful performance, top-notch cast, and complex storytelling, while differentiating itself with its crossover/time-travel premise. If you love superhero crossovers or time-travel movies like The Avengers and Avengers: Endgame (2019), X-Men: Days of Future Past is an excellent choice.

X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

X-Men: Apocalypse is the third film in the X-Men prequel series and sees the mutants come up against the supervillain mutant Apocalypse (Oscar Isaac). Like X-Men: First Class, Jackman only has an uncredited cameo as Wolverine, who runs into the X-Men in Weapon X form. Again, it’s not the film to watch solely for Wolverine, especially since the cameo feels a little unnecessary and out of place. 

X-Men: Apocalypse will still appeal to fans of the X-Men prequel trilogy and those eager to see Apocalypse brought to life. The film is a bit heavier on the action and visuals than character development, making it  an excellent choice if you’re seeking some fast-paced entertainment. X-Men: Apocalypse stands out from most X-Men movies with its unique setting and shares some similarities with other superhero projects that draw inspiration from Egyptian themes, such as Black Adam and Moon Knight (2022).

Logan (2017)

Logan is the final film in the Wolverine trilogy and centers on an older, weary Wolverine, who is forced back into action to protect a young mutant, Laura (Dafne Keen), with similar powers to his. The film is dark, brutal, and a beautiful adaptation of “Old Man Logan.” Jackman offers his best Wolverine performance yet as the world-weary and gruff Logan. 

At the same time, the film sets itself apart from all the X-Men movies with an unusually thoughtful, gritty, and emotional premise. Logan is a must-see for fans of Wolverine and Stewart’s Professor X, offering the perfect finale for both iconic characters. It’s an excellent film for fans of mature superhero movies like The Watchmen (2009) and The Batman (2022).

Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)

Although Jackman intended Logan to be his final bow as Wolverine, he decided to return to the role with Deadpool & Wolverine, which marked his character’s entrance to the MCU. The film brings him back via the multiverse, as Deadpool (Reynolds) finds a Wolverine variant (Jackman) to help him save his timeline. Deadpool & Wolverine is more of a Deadpool film rather than an X-Men movie. Hence, it boasts a far funnier and more mature tone than the previous X-Men movies. It is just as irreverent, vulgar, violent, and hilarious as Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018). 

The film also offers the crossover that every Wolverine fan has been hoping for since Deadpool’s premiere. Reynolds and Jackman’s chemistry and comedic timing are on point, while Deadpool & Wolverine is filled with exciting, fan service cameos. Viewers who love multiversal superhero movies like Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) and The Flash (2014), but want one with a bit of adult humor, will love Deadpool & Wolverine. 

Wolverine Movies In Chronological Order

While we recommend watching the Wolverine movies in release date order to avoid switching between film series and timelines, viewers can also watch the films in chronological order if they choose. The chronological order is as follows:

• X-Men: First Class
• X-Men: Days of Future Past
• X-Men Wolverine: Origins
• X-Men: Apocalypse
• X-Men
• X2
• X-Men: The Last Stand
• The Wolverine
• Logan
• Deadpool & Wolverine

Since 2015, the “nerdy ass voice actors” of Critical Role (2015) have been thrilling fans with their Dungeons & Dragons adventures, changing the gaming and online content creation landscapes as they go. Ten years in, the franchise is growing and changing in ways no one could have predicted a decade ago. Campaign Four just kicked off with some dramatic changes, including several new cast members and longtime Dungeon Master Matthew Mercer moving to the other side of the table. 

Outside the main campaigns, Critical Role has also published original tabletop games, Candela Obscura and Daggerheart, announced development on a video game, and much more. Their latest project is The Mighty Nein (2025), a series based on Campaign Two coming to Prime Video this month. Whether you’re looking to get into the actual show early in Campaign Four or curious about the animated series, this guide will go over all Critical Role campaigns so far, including spin-offs connected to the original Exandria setting.

Campaign One: Vox Machina (2015-2017)

What started out as a birthday present for Liam O’Brien turned into the original cast’s home game, then into a groundbreaking D&D actual play series, and now into an animated series. Campaign One and The Legend of Vox Machina (2022) follow the eponymous team—of course voiced by their original players alongside Mercer and a fantastic guest cast—as they explore the Exandrian continent of Tal'Dorei and go from misfit mercenaries to unlikely heroes. Of the three campaigns, Vox Machina is the closest to a traditional D&D team, comprised mostly of noble heroes who usually do the right thing, even if they eff things up along the way.

Campaign One is far less polished than newer Critical Role content, which can make it a harder watch. The episodes are also quite long, with most falling into the three to five hour range, though that’s true of most Critical Role content. Give it a chance if you’re a die-hard fan who wants to see where the magic started, but more casual viewers will get the most enjoyment out of The Legend of Vox Machina.

With half-hour episodes, the animated adaptation obviously isn’t a one-to-one recreation of the campaign, but it’s done a great job of making Vox Machina’s adventure more accessible to a wider audience. The series also fleshes out things that the campaign did not or could not explore due to the nature of tabletop RPG storytelling or real-life circumstances, such as cast member Ashley Johnson’s frequent absences due to her Blindspot (2015) filming schedule. The first three seasons of The Legend of Vox Machina are available on Prime Video. Season 4 is set to release in 2026, with a fifth and final season to follow.

Campaign Two: The Mighty Nein (2018-2021)

Behind the scenes and on-screen, Campaign Two is where Critical Role really came into its own. About a year into this campaign, the series moved from its original home Geek & Sundry to Critical Role’s own production company, which has now expanded to game development and publishing, a record label, a charity, and so much more. The show itself also underwent changes, as it stopped streaming live after its COVID-related hiatus and has remained pre-recorded to this day.

While Vox Machina are the legendary heroes celebrated from ages to follow, the Mighty Nein are the kinds of heroes whose names will be lost to time, not because they failed, but because they succeeded. Though they each start out with secrets and misgivings about one another, the Mighty Nein really become a family that supports one another through trials and triumphs. 

Like The Legend of Vox Machina before it, The Mighty Nein on Prime Video will bring what I and many fans would call Critical Role’s best adventure to a new audience. Expect the series to be more mature and dramatic than Vox Machina, as well as changes and additions to the story beyond the original campaign. It’s also packed with big-name guest stars, including Alan Cumming, Mark Strong, and Moana (2016) actress Auliʻi Cravalho. Campaign Two is where I’d recommend Critical Role newcomers start, and The Mighty Nein seems to be the new best point of entry.

Campaign Three: Bells Hells (2021-2025)

Critical Role’s third campaign is a culmination of a decade of TTRPG storytelling. In addition to introducing a new party, Campaign Three brings back almost all of the previous player characters for its final arc, with cast members sometimes playing multiple roles in the same episode. That makes for an epic conclusion to the era of Exandria, which will for now continue through live shows rather than the main campaign.

Campaign Three is also where Critical Role started playing with the formula, setting the stage for Campaign Four’s bigger changes. Some of Bells Hells were first seen in the miniseries Exandria Unlimited, led by guest DM Aabria Iyengar with Mercer as a player. This is where Critical Role fans were introduced to Robbie Daymond, now a main cast member for Campaign Four. Iyengar returned to DM Exandria Unlimited: Kymal and a brief ExU interlude in the main campaign; she also served as a guest player before joining the cast full-time for the new campaign.

Another miniseries, Exandria Unlimited: Calamity, also released during this era. Run by Brennan Lee Mulligan of Dimension 20 and other Dropout content, Calamity depicts events that occurred 1,000 years before the campaigns. Mulligan also DMed prequels Downfall, a three-part special within Campaign Three, and Exandria Unlimited: Divergence, a miniseries that aired after the campaign ended, before officially joining Critical Role as a main cast member for Campaign Four.

Campaign Four: Aramán (2025-Present)

Campaign Four is a major departure for a series that, generally, had been pretty stable for a decade-old show. After years of the original cast—Mercer as DM with Johnson, Travis Willingham, Laura Bailey, Marisha Ray, Liam O’Brien, Taliesin Jaffe, and Sam Riegel—remaining the same, the new campaign sees Mercer as a player with Mulligan taking over as Dungeon Master and five new players joining the table: Daymond, Iyengar, Alexander Ward, Luis Carazo, and Whitney Moore. 

The game itself has changed this time around, too. Campaign Four uses D&D’s 2024 rules revision and takes place in the new fantasy world of Aramán. Additionally, while the entire cast appeared for the first couple episodes, the players have been split into three tables: the Soldiers, the Seekers, and the Schemers. That means the cast will be rotating, with the actions of each group impacting the shared world

Though it’s quite different from everything up to this point, Campaign Four’s new setting makes it a good jumping on point, especially since there’s only a handful of episodes to catch up on. It might not be the same Critical Role fans know and love, but Campaign Four proves that the franchise is still capable of surprises and evolution, and that’s a great sign for upcoming projects in and outside of Exandria. 

If you're looking for a comedy franchise that mixes the awkwardness of meeting your significant other's family with big-screen star power, then Meet the Parents (2000) and its sequels are the perfect choice. From the original's brilliant setup of the nervous boyfriend meets dad from hell to the extended clan chaos, these films serve up cringey moments, heartfelt revelations, and the kind of generational and in-law commentary we all secretly dread.

But it's not just about the jokes. The cast, the timing, and the evolving dynamic across each film give them a surprising amount of staying power. And with a new entry on the way that is said to build on the existing lore, it's a great time to revisit (or discover) these iconic movies on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.

Meet the Parents (2000)

Meet the Parents is where the mix of sweet intentions and complete disaster begins. In his debut entrance to the in-law world, Greg Focker (Ben Stiller), who has an extremely unfortunate first name, is charming, earnest, and utterly unprepared for the grilling he'll receive from Jack Byrnes (Robert De Niro), the ex-CIA father of his girlfriend Pam (Teri Polo).

What follows is a series of missteps from Greg that are equal parts hilarious and sometimes just plain sad. It might be a bit predictable in parts, but you don't watch this for twists, you watch for the pain and the laughs. Meet the Parents is perfect for viewers who love smart, slightly darker comedies about family expectations, like 2006's Little Miss Sunshine.

Meet the Fockers (2004)

Meet the Fockers is set six months before Greg and Pam's wedding. So naturally, the couple decided it would be a good time for their respective sets of parents to meet. The by-the-book Byrnes clan heads to Florida to meet Greg's eccentric parents (Dustin Hoffman and Barbra Streisand), and the chaos begins when they encounter their very different lifestyle.

The sequel doubles down on the in-law war theme and ramps up the fish-out-of-water comedy through a clash of worlds. It's a fun follow-up, but you can feel the tone shift from less to broad comedy. Still, anyone who enjoyed the first movie (or 1999's American Pie) and wants more family goofiness with more colorful personalities will love this film.

Little Fockers (2010)

In Little Fockers, Greg and Pam are happily married with kids and ready to buy a new house. Jack has just been diagnosed with a heart condition and wants his son-in-law to succeed him as the head of the Byrnes family. At the same time, Greg is trying to prove his worth as husband and father while handling Jack's spy-style suspicions.

The story attempts to evolve the characters from awkward discomfort to family patriarch mode, which gives the franchise a slightly different edge. While still entertaining, the comedy dips into over-predictability, and the freshness of the original is somewhat lost. But it's still a must if you've followed the series and want to see how things mature while getting in a few laughs.

Focker In‑Law (2026)

Focker In-Law, the upcoming fourth film in the series, sees Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner reprise their roles, with Ariana Grande joining the cast. While plot details are scarce, reports suggest that the story will shift the focus to Greg and Pam's adult son (Henry), who is engaged to a woman who might not fit in with the Focker/Byrnes family dynamic.

Stiller has also suggested that Greg will be channeling his inner Jack while having to deal with in-law scrutiny. Fans of the original film will love that premise, as it would bring the story full circle. Focker In-Law is set for release on November 25, 2026.

Bugonia (2025) is a delightful and dark satire that’s definitely worth checking out, but that doesn’t mean you should skip the wild Korean sci-fi comedy that inspired it. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, Bugonia focuses on Teddy Gatz, a conspiracy theorist who has become convinced that pharmaceutical company executive Michelle Fuller is actually an alien. Kidnapping Michelle and subjecting her to inhumane and bizarre tactics in an effort to get her to break, Teddy’s instability only escalates an already intense situation. 

Grimly hilarious and surprisingly emotional at times, Bugonia is one of the most bizarre Hollywood films of the year. However, it’s got nothing on Save the Green Planet! (2003), the Jang Joon-hwan film with much of the same plot. However, the unique elements of Save the Green Planet!, especially the more tragic character elements, make it a deeply memorable and strikingly timeless film about environmentalism and capitalism. Here’s how the modern South Korean classic inspired Bugonia, and why you should check out both films.

What Is 'Save the Green Planet!' About?

Directed and written by Jang Joon-hwan, Save the Green Planet! follows many of the same plot beats as Bugonia—their biggest differences come in the cultural touchstones and just how much weirder Save the Green Planet! is willing to be. The film focuses on Lee Byeong-gu, played by Shin Ha-kyun. Similar to Teddy, Byeong-gu is a disturbed man who has been personally wronged by the pharmaceutical company whose CEO he is targeting. However, Byeong-go goes through some even more ridiculous interrogation methods than Teddy does. 

This speaks to the overall harsher tone of the original film. While there’s a certain level of wackiness that comes with the material (like the bee murder and circus performers), there’s a dark underbelly at the core of the film. It doesn’t cast Byeong-gu as a hero, just like Bugonia resists any temptation to make Teddy necessarily likable. Save the Green Planet! highlights how, even in the face of death and destruction, everyone, from the bureaucracy and capitalist authority to the average worker and regular families, humanity has a habit of making things worse than actually fixing them.

How 'Save the Green Planet!' Inspired 'Bugonia'

Overall, this fits the more overtly strange approach that Joon-hwan takes to the material as opposed to Lanthimos’ version of the same story. In Bugonia, Teddy is helped out by his neurodivergent cousin Don, but in Save the Green Planet!, Byeong-gu works alongside his circus performer girlfriend, Su-ni. There’s a single prominent police officer in Bugonia, as opposed to the far more committed police force that tries to find Kang Man-shik after he's been kidnapped. In this film, the CEO is a man, with Bugonia adding new layers to the character by gender flipping the character. 

The film’s key similarities speak to the ways that Bugonia is a very faithful adaptation of the original. In fact, it is so specifically rooted in the original that the remake was almost directed by Joon-hwan. Development on the remake began in 2020, with Will Tracy—one of the screenwriters on the similarly compelling satire The Menu (2022)—writing the script. Many of the changes to the story, including the decision to gender-flip Kang into Michelle, were spurred on by Ari Aster. The Hereditary (2018) and Eddington (2025) director serves as a producer on the film and was key to bringing in Tracy. Joon-hwan was initially set to direct the English-language remake of his earlier work, but Lanthimos and Emma Stone eventually joined the film instead.. 

Is 'Save the Green Planet!' Worth Watching After 'Bugonia'?

Save the Green Planet! and Bugonia make for an interesting pairing, especially for those revisiting the original after seeing the remake. Bugonia is a more modern movie, with a clearer focus on the current state of the world. Save the Green Planet!, by contrast, is from an era where social media as we know it today was non-existent. However, it speaks to the enduring power of Save the Green Planet!’s central narrative that most of it could be accurately translated to Bugonia without losing the sardonic spirit of the original. It’s very much from the same style of South Korean satirical genre-dramas that produced Parasite (2019), and it’s a great movie for fans of that Oscar-winning modern classic.

Save the Green Planet! may be wackier than Bugonia at times, but this is only the surface-level element of the film. There’s a deeper satirical core that comes across harsher in Save the Green Planet! and more tragically in Bugonia. Both films are wildly entertaining and bolstered by terrific performances, along with genuinely shocking plot twists at the end of the films. If you liked Bugonia, then Save the Green Planet! makes for a compelling contrast to the film that was inspired by it. 

When you picture Frankenstein’s Monster, what comes to mind? Chances are, you’ll think of him as a big, lumbering creature who growls, stomps around, and usually is at the bidding of some other smarter, more eloquent force. Whether it’s in the classic Universal monster movies, parodies like Young Frankenstein (1974), action shows like Creature Commandos (2024), or even romances like in Lisa Frankenstein (2024), there’s a general preconceived notion of what the Monster is supposed to look like and how he’s supposed to behave.

Unfortunately, that popular consensus of Frankenstein’s Monster isn’t exactly… accurate. The original Mary Shelley novel offers a vastly different interpretation of the creature that hasn’t been properly represented for years, if not decades. Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein (2025) claims to be a more faithful adaptation of the novel, but is that true, or is it just going to rehash many of the same tropes that have been trotted out for nearly a century?

‘Frankenstein’ Adaptations Popularized Elements Not In The Book

Thanks to numerous Hollywood productions, many of the elements surrounding the Monster don’t quite match the original novel. Case in point, his lack of intelligence. In film, the Monster almost always possesses very little, if any, intelligence, and often comes across as simple-minded. That is most certainly not the case in the original novel, which depicts him as verbose and capable of contemplating heavy themes like his own mortality, his loneliness, and his desire to be acknowledged by his father, Victor Frankenstein.

Victor often vehemently denies that the Monster is his own son, which, in turn, led to confusion surrounding his name. The Monster believes that he is a member of the Frankenstein family, but Shelley never directly calls him Frankenstein in the text. She, instead, referred to him by dehumanizing terms while drawing the focus to the Monster’s desire to be seen as a human being. So calling the creature “Frankenstein” does make sense in some regard. However, it also completely undercuts and grossly oversimplifies one of the main themes of the book.

But nothing is quite as incorrect as the Monster’s presentation. His stiff and slow walk was an invention by Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman (1943), but it was so poorly executed that audiences mocked it. In other words, the only reason Frankenstein walks as rigidly as he does is because people were making fun of it so much that it supplanted actor Boris Karloff’s rendition of the character. Not only that, but Karloff's Monster had distinctly green skin with bolts in his neck, which, shockingly, isn't accurate. In reality, the Monster is a surprisingly agile superhuman being capable of great feats of strength and endurance with skin that's more yellowish than green. He’s anything but a slow-moving dullard. He’s a weapon of mass destruction.

Is Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’ A Faithful Adaptation?

Given how the original novel is well over 200 years old and how often Frankenstein, or Frankenstein-like characters, pop up in fiction, it’s no surprise that the Monster has morphed from being a sympathetic and tragic figure into a cartoonish oaf. However, Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation seeks to change that.

Going into the production of the movie, del Toro was adamant that the film would be a tonally faithful adaptation of the original story. Given the film’s two and a half hour runtime and the novel’s 280-ish page count, making Frankenstein a one-to-one retelling of the novel was going to be virtually impossible. However, del Toro tried to make the film as true to its Gothic roots as possible, with numerous grand and sweeping practical sets dripping with unease and stark shadows. It also directly follows the plot of the book, including beginning the story in media res at the North Pole. 

Most importantly, the Monster is intelligent! He’s not just a mindless brute causing chaos wherever he goes, though the trailer does hint that Jacob Elordi’s interpretation of the Monster may be more prone to violence than Mary Shelley’s original vision. A part of this is because while del Toro wanted to be as faithful to the original story, he also wanted to honor past movies featuring the Monster, such as the original Frankenstein (1931) and Kenneth Branagh’s stab at the story, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1994). He also stated that he didn’t want to fall into a lot of the same traps that previous Frankenstein movies did, like making Victor into a cackling mad scientist or the mere presence of Igor, who was never even in the original novel. Thankfully, del Toro has confirmed that not only will Victor be depicted as a nuanced and emotionally conflicted man, but there's no sight of Igor in the film.

Should You Watch Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’?

Del Toro is a master of modern Gothic cinema, as anyone who has seen Crimson Peak (2015) can attest to. There’s a passion in every film he works on, and Frankenstein is no different. There’s such care and attention to detail in each shot that you’ll feel utterly immersed in the darkness of Victor’s creation. Everything feels tactile in Frankenstein, helping make the world feel truly lived in and alive. There’s also just an overwhelming sense of dread and tension, as we, along with Victor, are wondering not if, but when the Monster will appear. It’s not unlike how, in Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu (2024), you could feel Count Orlok’s presence, even when he isn’t there. 

The shadow cast by Elordi’s antihero is palpable, and if you love monster movies or deeply human tragedies, then you owe it to yourself to see Frankenstein on Netflix. And don’t be surprised when, come awards season, this film rakes in nominations for production design and adapted screenplay. It is, after all, the best and most faithful adaptation of Mary Shelley’s novel in some time. 

Even if you aren’t a horror fan, you’ve definitely heard of It. Originally a 1986 Stephen King novel, It has become a franchise of its own, inspiring a miniseries and movies It (2017) and It Chapter Two (2019) while making Pennywise, played by Bill Skarsgård since 2017, one of the most recognizable and terrifying horror villains of all time. Now, the world of It is expanding with the HBO series It: Welcome to Derry (2025), which serves as a prequel that dives into the fictional town of Derry, Maine and its history with Pennywise.

However, there is one It-related series that even diehard fans probably haven’t seen: the Hindi-language series Woh (1998). Aired on Indian TV station Zee TV, which itself was relatively new at the time, the series shares a lot in common with the beloved King novel and its adaptations. At the same time, it’s wildly different from the It fans have loved to be terrified by for decades. 

What Is 'Woh' About? (And Is It Actually An 'It' Remake?)

Like It, Woh starts out following a group of teenagers—Ashutosh, Raja, Julie, Shiva, Ronnie, Sanjeev, and Rahul—from the real Indian town of Panchgani who are confronted with supernatural evil in the form of a child abducting clown known as Woh. Fifteen years later, the group reunites to confront Woh again and protect Panchgani.

Woh is technically an adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic novel, though creators Ankush Mohla and Glen Barreto admitted to not reading the book. Instead, the series is primarily based on the It (1990) miniseries starring Tim Curry as Pennywise, though it’s far from a shot-for-shot remake.

The Biggest Differences Between 'It' And 'Woh'

Though Woh generally lines up with It’s main plot points, to say the creators took some creative liberties would be putting it lightly. Some changes are relatively minor, like the monster appearing every 15 years instead of every 27 years and the iconic sewer scene being changed to the clown luring a child into a swimming pool. But there’s a lot of additional story included over the course of Woh’s 52 episodes with no connection to the original material. 

Most notably, the series continues past Woh’s second defeat with an original storyline that delves into the killer clown’s backstory. Woh’s version of Pennywise, played by Indian actor Lilliput, is a little person whose tragic past led him to become a vengeful ghost. Though this provides motivation for his actions, Woh’s backstory undermines the true horror of Pennywise as an unexplainable evil that shapesifts into horrors that represents fear and hatred to child abuse and moral panic. At the same time, it plays into dated ableist tropes that depict those with disabilities as prone to violence. 

That’s not to say that Woh’s final arc is bad or marks a significant drop in quality. There are some interesting ideas, but the show really drops any tenuous connections it had to It at this point. Stephen King purists will likely scoff at the show’s lack of fidelity to the original, but if It-inspired horror mixed with a cheesy soap opera sounds fun to you, you’ll probably enjoy Woh. 

Where Can You Watch 'Woh' Right Now

Woh can be streamed for free on Plex and YouTube in the United States, making it surprisingly easy to access for an Indian series from the ‘90s. While its low budget shows in the series’ overall production quality, Woh is pretty well made for what it is. The series delivers spooky horror and thrills, from its terrifying clown to some truly unnerving fourth wall breaks.

Fans of campy low budget horror will probably enjoy the series most, but if you’re looking for some deep cut horror or simply intrigued by anything It related, Woh is a unique and fascinating piece of the franchise’s history that’s worth remembering.

The world of professional wrestling is undeniably electric. While some folks may frown at the fact that wrestling is part sport, part soap opera, the drama, the passion, and the over-the-top pageantry is super entertaining. And just like in the ring, when wrestling hits the big screen, it can deliver stories that are full of grit, humor, and unexpected emotion.

Whether you grew up idolizing luchadores or just love a good underdog tale, the movies in this list capture the spirit of the performance art that defines the heart and soul of professional wrestling. Each one reminds us that wrestling is more than costumes and catchphrases. It's about resilience and connection, even if it is pretend. Head over to platforms like Apple TV+,  Prime Video, and more to watch them now. 

Ready to Rumble (2000)

Ready to Rumble stars David Arquette and Scott Caan as two die-hard wrestling fans whose lives spiral into suplex-worthy absurdity after their favorite wrestler, Jimmy King (Oliver Platt), is ousted from WCW. What follows is part road trip, part buddy comedy, and all-out wrestling mayhem as the duo schemes to help their fallen hero reclaim his crown. The movie leans into a campy tone with real-life WCW legends, like Diamond Dallas Page and Goldberg, adding a dose of authenticity to the silliness.

It doesn't try to be subtle or profound, but it is still an enjoyable blast that has become something of a cult classic over the years. The humor is broad, and the plot's about as subtle as a steel chair to the face, but that's part of the charm. Ready to Rumble is ideal for longtime WCW fans or anyone who misses the over-the-top wrestling era of the late '90s and early 2000s.

Nacho Libre (2006)

Nacho Libre is what happens when lucha libre meets absurdity and somehow makes it work because it's loosely based on a real life tale. Jack Black stars as Nacho, a monastery cook with big dreams of becoming a professional wrestler so that he can use his fame to feed orphaned children better food. But he also kinda just wants to wear stretchy pants and be awesome. As expected, the film is full of off-kilter humor, deadpan dialogue, and a good dose of awkwardness.

The wrestling scenes are wildly exaggerated, and the costumes are delightfully ridiculous. Black spends most of the movie flying and singing his way through every frame. This isn't a deep dive into the sport. But between the body slams and goofiness, it reminds us that being yourself, no matter how weird, is worth celebrating. Nacho Libre is tailor-made for families and anyone curious about lucha libre's colorful tradition.

The Wrestler (2008)

The Wrestler is essentially a powerful, stripped-down character study that follows Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a once-iconic wrestler now scraping by on fading fame and broken dreams. Played with haunting vulnerability by Mickey Rourke, Randy is all muscle on the outside and all scars on the inside. This is not a glamorous wrestling world. It's about harsh locker rooms, DIY events in high school gyms, and a man clinging to a past that won't stop slipping through his fingers.

It's a sobering love letter to the real toll wrestling can take on bodies, on relationships, and on identities. Rourke's performance is nothing short of legendary, so it makes total sense that he earned an Oscar nomination for it. The Wrestler is not for fainthearted viewers. It is best suited to fans of raw, intimate dramas like Rocky Balboa (2006).

Fighting with My Family (2019)

Fighting with My Family is proof that sometimes, the best wrestling stories come from real life. Based on the true story of WWE superstar Paige, this film is part sports movie and part family drama. Florence Pugh plays Saraya (aka Paige), a working-class girl from Norwich, England, who grew up wrestling in her family's small-time promotion and eventually made it to WWE's biggest stage. The film hits the perfect balance of comedy and drama.

But at its core is a story about chasing dreams, facing failure, and figuring out who you are. Add in cameos and advice from Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and you've got a feel-good underdog tale that's quite memorable. Fighting with My Family is perfect for teens and adults who love inspirational sports stories like The Karate Kid (1984).

The Iron Claw (2023)

The Iron Claw chronicles the real-life story of the Von Erich family, one of wrestling's most famous dynasties. Set in the 1980s, the movie follows the Von Erich brothers (played by Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, and Stanley Simons) as they move up in the ranks of professional wrestling and deal with their father, who constantly pressures them to be the best. But the fame and success they find in the ring are accompanied by devastating losses.

This movie doesn't shy away from heartbreak, and the result is a story that's as much about grief and family as it is about masculinity. The Iron Claw is beautifully shot and full of reverence for its real-life subjects. It's not just for wrestling fans. It's for anyone who's ever wrestled with the weight of expectation and legacy. 

Every generation has its own unique action movie superstar. Whether it's Bruce Willis, The Rock, or Tom Cruise, there’s always at least one actor who most people are familiar with thanks to their action exploits. For millennials and Gen Z, one of the most notable action movie stars is Chris Evans. For nearly two decades, Evans has starred in multiple top-notch action movies and has helped generate billions of dollars for companies like Fox, Disney, and Netflix. He’s a household name, and today, we’re going to look at what his best roles are. 

While Evans is most well-known for his portrayal of Steve Rogers in the MCU, we’re not going to focus exclusively on his time as Captain America. We’re also going to look at movies that aren’t necessarily in the action wheelhouse, especially because of how Evans has branched out into other genres following his exit from Marvel (at least until 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday). So if you’re a Chris Evans superfan and want to know if his best movies are on Prime Video or Disney+, then this is the list for you.

5. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

As a young actor, Evans spent most of the 2000s in small, supporting roles in a variety of mediocre to forgettable films. While he has openly stated he hates most of his early filmography, except for playing Johnny Storm in Fox’s Fantastic Four duology, he, as well as the rest of the cast of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, loves that film.

While Evans is only present for one scene as Ramona’s second evil ex, Lucas Lee, his tough guy attitude became an instant fan favorite. Channeling White Goodman from Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004), Evans plays Lucas Lee like a narcissistic bad boy who can’t handle anyone thinking less of him. Director Edgar Wright understood that making Evans a parody of action movie stars would allow him to deliver some of the dumbest yet perfect lines in the entire film. The film reeks of nerd and comic book culture, so if you’re looking for a movie by nerds for nerds, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is practically made for you. It’s silly, yet grounded, and perfect for people looking for either a romance about young twenty-somethings discovering themselves or some sick fight scenes starring Chris Evans. 

4. Snowpiercer (2013)

While Evans was gaining more mainstream recognition thanks to his MCU tenure that didn’t stop him from starring in a few independent films in the 2010s. While some of these movies floundered critically and commercially, Snowpiercer was essential in helping establish Evans as a leading man.

What makes Snowpiercer such a captivating movie is that it’s one of the most scathing films about class warfare ever to exist. It’s a theme that director Bong Joon Ho would come back to in movies like Parasite (2019) and Mickey 17 (2025), but there’s such a rawness to Snowpiercer that it’s invigorating. As we watch Evans lead a violent rebellion through the gargantuan train that the remnants of society call home, we see a stark divide between the haves and the have-nots, and the engineered misery throughout this post-apocalyptic world. It may be a bit simplistic in how it presents those themes, but that simplicity helps make it a great gateway film not only to Bong’s filmography, but also for those looking for an action movie that isn’t afraid to address tough topics like global warming, social engineering, and child labor. This is Chris Evans at his darkest, and it’s also Chris Evans at his best.

3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

Once Chris Evans joined the MCU, his status as a celebrity rose at an astronomical rate. He appeared in 11 MCU films, including an entire trilogy of films he headlined. Of all of his MCU appearances, though, Captain America: The Winter Soldier is undeniably his best. What helps set The Winter Soldier apart from other MCU movies is how the film is a great standalone story. The Winter Soldier can be enjoyed without any prior MCU knowledge, delivering a thoughtful character piece about Steve coming to terms with his past and the inherent corruption of the United States government by Hydra.

At times, it feels like a cross between The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) and The Manchurian Candidate (1962). It’s hard to know who to trust in The Winter Soldier, which makes the film a great watch for anyone who’s been searching for something that will genuinely surprise them. If you’re just looking for well-choreographed fight scenes, the ones featured in The Winter Soldier are some of the MCU’s best. If you had to watch one Captain America movie starring Chris Evans, make it this one.

2. Knives Out (2019)

By 2019, Avengers: Endgame marked the end of the Infinity Saga, and with it, Chris Evans decided to step back from Marvel. He was at the height of his career, and after playing the squeaky-clean Steve Rogers, Evans decided to appear in Rian Johnson’s Knives Out as the vulgar jerk, Ransom Drysdale.

What helps make Chris Evans such a delight in Knives Out is how much he revels in being a bad guy. He’s playing against his type, so watching him disparage each of his family members as a murder mystery goes on in the background is simply delicious. It’s a great showcase for his range, with Evans often shifting from a snarky nepo-baby to a man who genuinely cares about Ana de Armas’s Marta, even if it’s only to spite his family. Ransom is one of the best written characters in a movie that already has a great script, so if you’re looking for a classic whodunnit, Knives Out is a great choice. It takes its cues from some of the all-time great murder mystery films like Murder on the Orient Express (1974) and The Nice Guys (2016) to make a murder mystery that’s both fun to watch and fun to suss out. 

1. Materialists (2025)

It would be safe to say with hindsight that following his tenure in the MCU, Chris Evans’ time as a blockbuster superstar was over. He would star in an action film here or there, but Evans now appears to be more interested in exploring more thoughtful and meaningful character dramas. Case in point, Materialists. If you’re the kind of person who swoons just thinking about Chris Evans, then you need to see Materialists right this second. It’s a modern-age love story that will charm people who love movies like Past Lives (2023) or The Worst Person in the World (2021). It’s a film about the imperfections of dating and how people don’t always know what they want in a relationship.

Materialists does a wonderful job portraying Evans as a man who is still hopelessly in love with his ex, but he wants what’s best for her, even if the answer isn’t him. There’s a sincerity and vulnerability to Evans’ performance where you believe wholeheartedly that he still loves her, making him the emotional core of the film. It’s a long-overdue change of pace for an actor who, for nearly a decade, was typecast as the strong action hero. If you’ve been looking for a romance aimed at adults and the all-too-real problems of dating in the modern age, then I can’t recommend Materialists enough. 

Humanity has always been interested in the concept of artificial intelligence (AI), which is why the film industry has been tackling it since the first AI movie, Metropolis, in 1927. For decades, filmmakers have hypothesized and even warned about what a world with near-sentient, intelligent machines would look like. Now that real-life technology, such as GPT-4o, is genuinely starting to resemble the AI seen in movies like Her (2013), interest in these movies is only increasing. 

For those interested in AI from a filmmaker’s perspective, this guide will rank the 10 best movies about AI and tell you where to find them on HBO Max, Disney+, and more. 

10. M3GAN (2022)

M3GAN is a horror movie that centers on the life-like AI doll, M3GAN (Amy Donald and Jenna Davis), who grows self-aware and takes her loyalty to her owner to the extreme. It’s an unconventional AI movie in that it leans more into horror and dark comedy than sci-fi. The result is that M3GAN is a wildly fun movie that takes an irreverent approach to anxieties about AI. 

M3GAN blends killer doll horror and sentient AI horror for a wild, creepy, and highly entertaining ride. If you’re looking for an AI movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously and offers some Child’s Play (1988) horror vibes, M3GAN is an excellent movie for you. However, its entertaining horror premise means it isn’t as profound or sophisticated as other entries on this list.

9. WALL-E (2008)

WALL-E is a Pixar computer-animated film that centers on the titular robot (Ben Burtt), who tries to clean up a deserted Earth alone, until a new robot arrives and catches his interest. The film touches on AI, which has advanced to the point where it cares for all of humanity’s desires, leaving humans wasting away and consuming digital media all day. 

While WALL-E is a family-friendly Pixar movie filled with humor and a heartwarming robot love story, it actually hits the nail on the head regarding humanity’s trend toward reliance on technology and AI. Some viewers have even called the film predictive of the future. WALL-E is the perfect movie for viewers looking for technology and AI themes framed in a family-friendly story similar to The Wild Robot (2024) and Ron’s Gone Wrong (2021).

8. Moon (2009)

Moon centers on Sam Bell (Sam Rockwell), a man mining helium-3 on the moon, who begins experiencing strange phenomena. The film features an AI model, GERTY (Kevin Spacey), who assists Sam on the moon. While the AI fulfills company protocol, it actually demonstrates moments of compassion in trying to help Sam understand his situation, though its intentions are kept mostly ambiguous.

Moon’s depiction of GERTY subverts the typical evil AI tropes by creating a more complex AI system that appeared capable of almost human emotion and reasoning. The unexpected AI angle, combined with the complicated cloning elements, makes it a thought-provoking and fascinating work of hard sci-fi. Moon is reminiscent of Mickey 17 (2025) and Solaris (1972) through its unique sci-fi premise and exploration of what it means to be human.

7. Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970)

Colossus: The Forbin Project tells the story of Dr. Charles Forbin (Eric Braeden), who develops a massive AI computer system to protect the U.S., only for it to create a suspicious, secretive relationship with a Russian computer system. It offers an entertaining, humorous, and satirical thriller about an AI system bent on world domination. While it does lean into malevolent AI tropes, it stands out through its comic relief and intelligent dialogue.

Colossus: The Forbin Project was one of the earlier films to explore AI and the paranoia surrounding advanced technology. Given the time period, it’s a bit slower and talkier than more modern works, like WarGames (1983). However, the unpredictable twists, turns, and chilling, memorable quotes make it a hidden AI gem.

6. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey follows a group of astronauts on the Discovery One, who are en route to Jupiter when the AI computer system controlling their ship, HAL, begins behaving increasingly erratically. Kubrick’s film is considered one of the most influential sci-fi films of all time for its unique filming techniques and the fact that it was ahead of its time in realism, philosophical themes, and exploration of AI. 

2001: A Space Odyssey boasts strong cinematography and an ambiguous premise, making it very rich for interpretation. Even the tale of HAL is quite ambiguous, as viewers are left to determine the nature of its actions and motivations themselves. While 2001: A Space Odyssey is one of the most artful AI movies, its ambiguity may be off-putting to some viewers, which prevents it from ranking higher on this list.

5. Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

Blade Runner 2049 is the highly anticipated sequel to Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner (1982). The film centers on a new blade runner, Officer K (Ryan Gosling), who discovers a startling secret about replicants, setting him on a journey to find the missing blade runner, Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford). The sequel contains many of the same AI concepts as the original. 

It explores the essential question of what differentiates humans and AI, as well as the anxieties society harbors about the threat AI poses to their careers and livelihoods. Blade Runner 2049 is like Blade Runner but tailored to modern audiences with more vibrant visuals and an emotionally resonant story about self-identity. While its worldbuilding and modern visuals make it easier to consume than 2001: A Space Odyssey and Colossus: The Forbin Project, it still lacks some of the sharpness and originality of the original Blade Runner.

4. Ex Machina (2014)

In Ex Machina, programmer Caleb Smith (Domhall Gleeson) wins the opportunity to be the human component in a Turing test to determine the robot Ava’s (Alicia Vikander) capabilities, but finds himself in over his head due to Ava’s astonishing level of intellect. The film centers its AI premise, emphasizing psychological thrills and complex themes more heavily than special effects and cinematography. 

The result is quite a cerebral movie that probes whether AI truly can become indistinguishable from humans, as well as the consequences and ethics of such a phenomenon. It’s tense, thoughtful, and filled with big ideas and even bigger thrills. If you’re looking for something a little less flashy than Blade Runner 2049, but that has just as many thought-provoking ideas, Ex Machina is an excellent watch.

3. Her (2013)

Her tells the story of a lonely man, Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix), who develops a relationship with an AI machine called Samantha (Scarlett Johansson). It’s a sci-fi romance that eerily parallels modern society, where some individuals have indeed formed extremely close relationships with AI systems. While the sweet, manipulative tones of Samantha are sometimes chill-inducing, Her focuses less on thrills and is more a somber exploration of the nature of modern relationships.

At times darkly comedic and at other times heartbreaking, the film was quite ahead of its time in predicting how AI figures into the dating world and rising loneliness. Her is a profound and often moving exploration of whether technology can fill a void in one’s life in the same manner as a real partner can. Like Ex Machina, it rides high on big ideas, but its melancholy atmosphere makes it stick with you much longer after you’ve finished it.

2. Blade Runner (1982)

Blade Runner centers on blade runner Deckard (Ford), whose mission to eliminate rogue replicants takes a complicated turn when he falls in love with one. The film is a stunning work of worldbuilding and genre-bending that capitalizes poignantly on society’s AI anxieties. With its cyberpunk aesthetics and blend of sci-fi and film noir, Blade Runner was unlike any other film at the time, featuring groundbreaking visuals and complex technological and philosophical themes that were well ahead of their time.

What really makes Blade Runner stand out from other entries on this list is that it doesn’t feature AI as the clear antagonist. None of the characters are black and white, with the motivations and morals of both the replicants and humans featuring ambiguity and complexity. In blurring the lines between humans and AI, Blade Runner features one of the most profound explorations of AI, encasing it in a dazzling story and setting.

1. The Matrix (1999)

The Matrix follows hacker Neo (Keanu Reeves), who catches the attention of a group of rebels and gets pulled into a dark and dangerous mission to discover the truth about the Matrix. The Matrix is a complex, action-packed, and mind-bending sci-fi movie that blurs the lines of reality and simulation while probing the dangers of AI. It delves into the mind-blowing premise that reality is actually a computer program run by intelligent AI.

The Matrix explores fairly profound ideas of AI, imagining it as so intelligent and powerful that it can control and manipulate humanity. What’s especially impressive is just how relevant The Matrix has remained, as, every year, AI advancements make its premise seem less far-fetched. The Matrix parallels Blade Runner 2049 and Her in its relevance and appeal to modern audiences, while also matching the groundbreaking nature of 2001: A Space Odyssey and Blade Runner with its profound, mind-boggling premise, making it the best AI movie to date.

Based on the best-selling fantasy novels by authors and illustrators C. S. Lewis, Kyoko Tsuchiya, and Iori Tamaki, The Chronicles of Narnia is a beloved series with a huge following. Unfortunately, while there are seven books, there are only three original films, one of which most fans find to be disappointing. However, Barbie (2023) and Little Women (2019) director Greta Gerwig is set to readapt the series, starting with The Magician's Nephew coming in 2026.

There isn't much news yet on the entire cast or release date, but the Netflix film will presumably have a limited theatrical run. That said, the original trilogy is mostly great. Here's how to watch the Narnia movies in order and where to find them on Disney+, Prime Video, and more.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005)

The first movie to kickstart the magical adventures, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, is a perfect starting point and an excellent segue into a world of make-believe that's rooted in a message about empathy and love. The story centers around the Pevensie siblings, Edmund, Lucy, Peter, and Susan, as they uncover a hidden wardrobe in the country home they now live in. Quintessential stories of good versus evil follow, as well as a relatively easy lore that most adults and kids can find joy in.

It isn't every first installment in a fantasy series that's as stunning or thoughtfully crafted as The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, but for a movie that's now 20 years old, this one shines with its gorgeous effects that provide just the right amount of escapism. It's also the type of movie that can be watched during the holiday season for an extra dose of magic. If you're a fan of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stoner (2001) and somehow have yet to watch the Narnia films, this one's the best place to start.

Prince Caspian (2008)

Rarely is a sequel better than the original, but bring Ben Barnes into the story to play a dreamy prince, and instantly, it'll become everything and more. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian is the second film in the trilogy, and undoubtedly, the best one. It's a daring and bold adventure with higher stakes than the first to ensure that the entire viewing experience feels like an adventure. Not only does it expand on the lore, but having a new character that leaves just as big a mark is a feat in and of itself.

In many instances, when viewers watch fantasies like this, the characters they find themselves attached to are the ones who continue selling the story. So it's always a bit tricky when the spotlight focuses on someone else, yet everything about Prince Caspian is proof that with the right screenplay and the right actor, it can be done. Viewers can even jump into Prince Caspian without watching the original, but it's made entirely better with the inclusion of the first. 

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)

It's unfortunate that The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader mostly leaves out Peter and Susan because so much of the story fumbles as we move forward in the last installment. It's still an aesthetically gorgeous film, and it's mostly gripping for younger audiences who might not notice as much, but the adults are likely to catch inconsistencies and questionable narrative choices. 

The film has the lowest Rotten Tomatoes score of the entire trilogy, and most fans won't revisit it during their rewatch. And again, while some choices are understandable to a degree, it's the execution that fumbles. The story becomes less a character journey and more plot-focused, which also subsequently takes away from the magic of the fantasy genre that makes it special. Still, the last film is worth watching at least once, and if nothing else, Barnes continues to deliver his A-game as Prince Caspian.

James McAvoy has been one of the most magnetic stars of British television and American film in the 21st century, and his best movies and shows speak to his sheer versatility. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, McAvoy made his acting debut as a teenager in 1995 but gained notoriety on TV a little later with State of Play (2003) and Frank Herbert's Children of Dune (2003). After a crucial supporting role as Mr. Tumnus in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005), McAvoy has been on a consistent, strong streak for the better part of two decades. 

From heroic roles in animated films like Arthur Christmas (2011) or villainous turns in Speak No Evil (2024), McAvoy has consistently been one of the best parts of whatever he's starring in. Here are the 10 best James McAvoy movies and TV shows and where you can check them out on Netflix, HBO Max, and more!

10. His Dark Materials (2019-2022)

His Dark Materials is a show that puts James McAvoy’s abilities to great use in a short time, highlighting how quickly the actor can charm his way into your heart and menace your worst nightmares in the same role. As Lord Asriel, McAvoy joins a stacked lineup of performers who've appeared as the character in adaptations of Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials book trilogy. Daniel Craig, Timothy Dalton, and Terence Stamp each played the character in different media, all of them bringing their own unique touches to the character. However, McAvoy’s is arguably the best, a deceptively charming leader with dark ambitions.

McAvoy fit in perfectly to the bombastic but mature approach to storytelling, with a visceral brutality that allowed the show’s emotional core to shine through. A terrific and more mature follow-up to stuff like the Harry Potter series and the Percy Jackson and the Olympians (2023), His Dark Materials is a solid adventure for fantasy fans, but McAvoy shines even brighter in other projects, which is why it ranks last on this list. 

9. It Chapter Two (2019)

While It (2017) was more visually clever, McAvoy and the rest of the grown Losers Club in It Chapter Two all do a terrific job at embodying both the spirit of the Stephen King novel and the film’s exploration of lost innocence and lingering trauma against the backdrop of a supernatural killer clown. Viciously embracing the R-rating afforded to the team, director Andy Muschietti puts the cast through the wringer in a solid translation of the source material that ups the blockbuster elements alongside the emotional beats that define the characters.

McAvoy fits in perfectly for the leader role, a great evolution of the performance by Jaeden Martell that embodies a mournful but determined core. Audiences who don’t like gory scares or unsettling horror should skip this one, but it’s worth a watch for anyone still in a Halloween sort of mood.

8. The Book of Clarence (2023)

An ambitious comedy that fuses the social commentary of Atlanta (2016) with the religious focus of Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979), The Book of Clarence stumbles at times but has moments of real impressive depth. Focusing on a scam artist in Biblical times who takes to impersonating the feats of Jesus Christ, The Book of Clarence gives McAvoy a chance to portray Pontius Pilate with a certain sadistic edge, embodying a timeless figure of villainous authority with an appealing sense of natural intimidation.

Opposite LaKeith Stanfield, McAvoy is a great villain whose darker elements make him a perfect contrast to the criminal but sympathetic portrayal of Clarence. Not for people looking for historically accurate recreations of history or religion, The Book of Clarence is a solid modern-day riff on the kind of questions that theologians (and Monty Python) have been asking for decades.

7. Filth (2013)

One of James McAvoy’s best qualities as an actor is his ability to fully embrace a wild side while retaining a sort of magnetic charm, and this ability is never better than in Filth. Depicting one of the most horrifically horrible versions of a police officer ever depicted on film, Filth follows an Edinburgh detective sergeant who causes and endures all sorts of chaos across the city while investigating a murder. The entire film is a darkly hilarious deep-dive into a complexly demented mind that takes a standard cop drama and turns it into a pitch-black comedy.

McAvoy is perfect in the role as a wild typhoon of a man that’s always on the edge of self-destruction. It’s an enthusiastically unpleasant performance that almost dares the viewer to look away, the sort of balancing act that McAvoy has gotten very good at perfecting. Anyone who only loves the sweet McAvoy performances in projects like The Chronicles of Narnia (as well as children) should stay away, but anyone excited by the actor’s darkly comedic and bleakly dramatic chops should check out this film.

6. The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby (2014)

A somber and romantic tragedy, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby is an ambitious experimental approach to romantic filmmaking. The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby is technically three films in one that only works because of the strong lead performances. A somber reflection on the struggles of love amid the fallout of grief, the film stars McAvoy and Jessica Chastain as a married couple grieving the loss of their son.

The three films are “Him,” “Her,” and “Them,” which tell the same tale from different perspectives. McAvoy and Chastain are heartbreakingly vulnerable in the movie, showcasing the natural dynamic they’d revisit in It Chapter Two. For fans of other experimental love stories like Before Sunrise (1995) and Conversations With Other Women (2006), The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby is a somber film that will touch viewers and leave them in a more ambiguous emotional space.

5. Atonement (2007)

The film that truly launched James McAvoy into stardom with a Golden Globe nomination, Atonement is a heartwrenchingly romantic film anchored by McAvoy and Keira Knightley’s performances. Adapted from the 2001 novel of the same name by Ian McEwan, the film follows the tragic romance between a wealthy young woman and a soldier in love with her against the backdrop of World War II.

The intimately emotional story is bolstered by Joe Wright’s terrific direction, bringing a real cinematic scope to an intimate, charged story about the nature of truth and forgiveness. Powerfully tender and memorably romantic, Atonement is a great choice for fans of shows like Downton Abbey (2010) and Bridgerton (2020) that thread the needle between period drama and romantic interlude that the Brontë Sisters would be proud of.

4. X-Men: First Class (2011)

James McAvoy was stepping into big shoes, so to speak, when took on the role of Charles Xavier in X-Men: First Class. The prequel to the earlier X-Men (2000) Fox films had cast Patrick Stewart in the role, whose fatherly warmth but sly manipulations made for a compelling take on the psychic founder of the mutant team. However, McAvoy turns out to be perfectly cast in the part, imbuing his performance with a deft blend of empathy and swagger that makes for a deceptively perfect foil to Michael Fassbender’s pitch-perfect performance as a young Magneto. 

X-Men: First Class may take a lot of liberties from the source material and the series that it’s nominally building too, but the film’s period-setting stylings, clever touches, and deeply emotional performances make this a highlight of the Fox X-Men series. Superhero fans won’t want to skip this one. 

3. Shameless (2004-2013)

A terrific BBC show that eventually inspired a just as good Showtime dramedy for the ages, Shameless is a terrific grimy riff on the sitcom. Appearing throughout the first two seasons of the show, McAvoy finds the perfect balance between the gritty edge he brought to Filth alongside the more romantic charms he displayed in Atonement. Here, McAvoy plays Fiona Gallagher’s boyfriend, a deceptively sweet car thief who serves as a surprising moral core of the show opposite the rest of the Gallagher family.

Shameless was one of McAvoy’s first prominent performances and remains one of his most effective. Very much of its time and not for people who like their character dramas more in line with Freaks and Geeks (1999) or Young Sheldon (2017), Shameless is a great drama that’s perfect for the audience who loves the off-kilter touches of Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) or Little Miss Sunshine (2006).

2. Split (2016)

Arguably the most impressive performance in James McAvoy’s career, Split is a marvel of acting focus that only works because of the versatility that the actor has honed over the course of his career. McAvoy plays a predator with dozens of personalities, allowing him to embody multiple characters in the same body. Some are frightening, some are innocent, and some—like the Beast—are monsters.

Split is a tense thriller that reminded audiences why M. Night Shaymalan was such a promising filmmaker before a string of big misfires derailed his career in the public eye. McAvoy has the perfect level of pulp commitment and intense depth to make a very tricky character incredibly compelling. Technically, the second film in the Unbreakable (2000) and Glass (2019) trilogy, Split is a terrific stand-alone film that is the perfect showcase for McAvoy as a horror performer. 

1. State of Play (2003)

One of the best BBC dramas of the 21st century, State of Play is an electric thriller and a great showcase for a young James McAvoy. When a researcher is killed amid the rise of an ambitious new politician, the police and journalistic investigations unearth a massive conspiracy. A prime thriller, McAvoy plays a key supporting role as Dan Foster, the son of the Herald’s editor, Cameron Foster.

Gripping and intense, State of Play is a perfect drama for anyone who loves shows like House of Cards (2013). The American adaptation, State of Play (2009), isn’t a bad pick either, but if you only watch one, this six-episode miniseries stands out as a terrific thriller for fans who love films like Michael Clayton (2007) and James McAvory. It’s most definitely the best TV show that he has ever been in. 

Like Elf (2003) and A Christmas Story (1983), Home Alone (1990) is one of the few holiday movies that has managed to become a timeless Christmas classic. No matter how many years go by, it’s always revisited and celebrated around the holidays, especially as countless families have incorporated the movie into their Christmas traditions.

The original is still considered one of the best Christmas movies ever made, but it also spawned some festive and heartfelt spin-offs. Viewers can use our guide to learn where to find all the Home Alone movies in release date order on Disney+, Prime Video, and more.

Home Alone (1990)

Home Alone centers on Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), a young boy accidentally left behind by his family over the holidays, who must defend his home from criminals while enjoying his newfound freedom. The movie is a true classic, primarily due to Culkin’s performance and how he captured the heart and mischievousness of being a child.

Young audiences will be absorbed in the storyline, as there are few bigger dreams in childhood than being left home alone and given the freedom to do anything one pleases. Meanwhile, older audiences will enjoy the nostalgia for childhood and the sweet moments of family connection. If you’re a sucker for family-friendly Christmas classics like A Christmas Story and Miracle on 34th Street (1947), Home Alone is a must-see.

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is the sequel to Home Alone, in which Kevin gets separated from his family during a family Christmas vacation to Florida and ends up navigating New York City alone. Fans of Home Alone will love Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, as it is the most similar film to the original and the last to feature most of the original cast.

The change of setting creates a little more awe for younger viewers and a heightened festive atmosphere. It is just as funny as the original, though it dials up the cartoon violence a bit. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York may not be as magical as the original, but it’s fun and entertaining, especially for fans of ‘80s or ‘90s movies centered on childhood mischief and adventure like The Goonies (1985) and Baby’s Day Out (1994).

Home Alone 3 (1997)

Home Alone 3 is the third movie in the Home Alone series and centers on a new protagonist. In the film, Alex (Alex D. Linz) comes into possession of a toy hiding a coveted computer chip, attracting the attention of a few high-profile criminals. Home Alone 3 has a very different vibe than its predecessors, as it is the first to feature a new cast and take place outside the holiday season.

Despite the changes, it still retains the overall spirit of the Home Alone franchise through its resourceful child protagonist foiling the plans of four criminals. It’s energetic, exciting, and boasts even more funny and outlandish ideas for thwarting burglars. Home Alone 3 is on par with The War with Grandpa (2020) and Dennis the Menace (1993) in that it’s a light, breezy, and funny watch that celebrates childhood and mischief, even if it doesn’t quite reach classic status.

Home Alone 4 (2002)

Home Alone 4 is a made-for-television movie, which features a recast McCallister family. The film centers on Kevin McCallister (Mike Weinberg), whose Christmas holiday with his recently divorced father is interrupted by the return of his old enemy, Marv (French Stewart).

Home Alone 4 returns to the McCallister family, but with so many changes, it’s hardly recognizable to fans. The film reuses many gags from previous films and features an even more outlandish and confusing plot. Still, it includes thoughtful traps and is silly and festive enough to appeal to children. It’s also reminiscent of Return to Oz (1985) and It Runs in the Family (1994) as a sequel to a classic that recasts most of the characters, which is a rare enough occurrence to potentially stir some curiosity.

Home Alone: The Holiday Heist (2012)

Home Alone: The Holiday Heist is another made-for-television movie. Like Home Alone 3, it moves away from the McCallisters, instead focusing on Finn Baxter (Christian Martyn) and his older sister Alexis (Jodelle Ferland), who must protect their home from thieves while their parents are at a Christmas party.

If you’re seeking something a little more refreshing in the Home Alone series, you may enjoy Home Alone: The Holiday Heist. Featuring a brother/sister team helps differentiate it from the other movies and offers some light, slapstick humor. Fans of lighthearted Christmas movies like ‘Twas the Night (2001) and The Naughty Nine (2023) will like Home Alone: The Holiday Heist.

Home Sweet Home Alone (2021)

Home Sweet Home Alone is a standalone sequel to Home Alone, which sees Max Mercer (Archie Yates) defend his home from criminals after his family leaves him behind when they leave for a holiday trip to Japan. 

The movie features one original Home Alone character, as Devin Ratray reprises his role as a now-adult Buzz McCallister. Ratray’s inclusion is a nice nod to the original, while Home Sweet Home Alone as a whole feels more like a modern remake of Home Alone than a sequel. However, it boasts an even lighter tone than the original and features more wholesome characters. Viewers who enjoyed Home Alone and Home Alone 2 but disliked some of the cartoonish violence and morally grey characters will find Home Sweet Home Alone very family-friendly while still boasting the formula of the originals. 

Film critics and audiences often regard Al Pacino as one of the greatest actors of all time. He has well over 50 acting credits to his name, as well as nine Oscar nominations and a staggering 19 Golden Globe nominations. After appearing in his third film, The Godfather (1972), he achieved international stardom and has continued to produce award-winning performances.

For those wishing to delve into his film career, this guide will show you where you can watch the 10 best Al Pacino movies, ranked, on Pluto TV, Prime Video, and more.

10. Scarface (1983)

Scarface follows the journey of Tony Montana (Pacino) as he rises from Cuban immigrant to a fierce and lethal drug lord. Pacino is magnetic as Montana, capturing his volatile temper, arrogance, and self-destructive patterns with grit and realism. Meanwhile, Scarface is a thought-provoking, violent, bloody, and cynical crime drama about how one can fall just as quickly as they rise.

The movie is reminiscent of Breaking Bad (2008) in that it tracks the mesmerizing, drug-fueled rise of antiheroes and their inevitable fall. It’s hard not to be sucked into the adrenaline-inducing rise and the tragic undertones of such stories. As intriguing as Scarface is, Pacino’s volatile performance suffers a little bit from overacting, including his exaggerated Cuban accent. The reliance on stereotypes also means Scarface ranks 10th on this list when compared with more relatable and complex titles, such as The Godfather.

9. …And Justice for All (1979)

…And Justice for All centers on Arthur Kirkland (Pacino), a lawyer whose disillusionment with the justice system comes to a head when he is roped into representing a corrupt judge accused of rape. It’s a heavy, but important film that delves into the complicated subject of whether America’s flawed system actually allows for justice. Pacino also delivers a powerful performance as the spiraling, passionate Kirkland, whose desire to do good is a refreshing change from his typical antihero/villain roles.

…And Justice for All isn’t as bleak and cynical as Scarface, but it does match some of the movie’s over-the-top nature. Its sometimes exaggerated depictions of court and the life of a lawyer mean it teeters awkwardly between satire and drama. Still, …And Justice for All is dramatic, intense, and commendable in its ambition. It'll appeal to fans of other complex legal dramas, such as 12 Angry Men (1957) and Just Mercy (2019).

8. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)

Glengarry Glen Ross is a dark comedy that tells the story of four real estate agents forced to compete with one another when their office manager reveals that only the two with the most closing deals will retain their jobs at the end of the week. Pacino stars as Richard Roma, the office’s top closer and sales shark, who preys on vulnerable and insecure clients to drive his success.

Glengarry Glen Ross is a dark and thought-provoking story, offering a critical commentary on capitalism and the American Dream. While viewers will be compelled to laugh at the desperation of its characters, they’ll also be somewhat appalled by just how selfish, conniving, and manipulative they are. Sometimes, the fast-talking, business-heavy dialogue can be disconcerting. However, fans of business and finance-based dramas, such as The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) and The Big Short (2015), will devour Glengarry Glen Ross.

7. Donnie Brasco (1997)

In Donnie Brasco, undercover FBI Agent Joseph Pistone (Johnny Depp) infiltrates the Bonanno crime family by posing as mobster Lefty Ruggiero’s (Pacino) friend. However, things grow complicated when he realizes his and Ruggiero’s connection is real. Pacino shines as Lefty, an aging and troubled mob boss who, despite his crimes, viewers can’t help but feel sympathy for. The story of friendship and moral dilemma is also refreshing and helps Donnie Brasco avoid some of the sensationalism and clichés of the crime genre.

While Donnie Brasco is dramatic and intense, with impeccable performances, its story is somewhat familiar, paralleling films like Deep Cover (1992) and Rush (1991), in which an undercover hero gets too deeply involved in their mission. Although Donnie Brasco is not wholly distinct, it dodges stereotypes and clichés and offers a little more realism and authenticity than Scarface and Glengarry Glen Ross.

6. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Dog Day Afternoon tells the story of Sonny Wortzik (Pacino), based on the real-life John Wojtowicz, an inexperienced criminal whose attempt to rob a bank results in a complicated hostage situation. The film is quite different from the typical crime drama/heist movie, especially given the unexpected motive behind Wortzik’s actions. Like his performance as Lefty, Pacino’s Wortzik is another that draws sympathy, but to an even greater extent, as he captures the spiralling, painfully human, and tragic nature of the character.

Dog Day Afternoon as a whole masterfully utilizes tension and suspense, given its hostage situation. Although it dabbles in humor throughout its unfortunate sequence of events, it’s one of those movies with an unexpected emotional twist that hits harder due to its gradual build-up. Funny, thoughtful, and empathetic, Dog Day Afternoon is more profound than …And Justice for All, but its slightly anti-climactic premise prevents it from ranking higher on this list.

5. The Insider (1999)

The Insider is a biographical drama about CBS producer Lowell Bergman (Pacino), who struggles to create a platform for tobacco industry whistleblower Jeffrey Wigand (Russell Crowe) despite intense retaliation from Wigand’s employer. The film is so intense and fast-paced that it often feels more like a thriller than a drama, as it explores the threats and dangers that sometimes arise from the truth. It’s the kind of movie that leaves one inspired by its hero but indignant about the sheer forces against them.

The Insider offers the same suspense and unpredictable nature as Dog Day Afternoon, but never does it drag, and it tackles a story with many more layers to peel back. It’s also an excellent film for viewers seeking something a little less violent and over-the-top than Pacino’s typical work. If you loved Spotlight (2015), The Post (2017), and other movies about the pursuit of truth, you’ll love The Insider.

4. Scent of a Woman (1992)

Scent of a Woman follows Charlie (Chris O’Donnell), a student who takes a job caring for blind veteran Lt. Col. Frank Slade (Pacino) and slowly builds a bond with him. Like The Insider, Scent of a Woman is another of Pacino’s films that sits outside his typical filmography as a slow-burning, refreshing drama. Pacino’s performance is what truly drives the film, though, as he captures the bitterness, despondency, vulnerability, and passion of the complicated Slade.

Scent of a Woman is highly reminiscent of movies like A Man Called Otto (2022) and The Holdovers (2023), paralleling the searing, emotional stories of loneliness, despair, and the power of unexpected human connections. Like Donnie Brasco, it’s not the most original movie in terms of themes. However, the heartfelt tale and Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance still carry Scent of a Woman near the top of his filmography.

3. Serpico (1973)

Serpico is based on the true story of police detective Frank Serpico (Pacino), who takes on the corruption of the NYPD, even though it puts him in immense danger. The film is highly reminiscent of The Insider, but with higher stakes, which makes its tale even more awe-inspiring. Pacino shines in the role, convincingly embodying the character of a cop and radiating passion and conviction. 

In addition to powerful performances and a story, Serpico offers a bold and unflinching look at police corruption that remains relevant to this day. Its grit, intensity, and suspense are the perfect way to frame its complicated story, and it never loses its realism while still elevating its hero’s story. If you loved The Insider and …And Justice for All but want an even more impeccably, meticulously crafted and thought-provoking film, Serpico is a must-see.

2. The Godfather Part II (1974)

The Godfather Part II tracks Michael Corleone’s (Pacino) further descent into the world of crime, and also goes back in time to probe young Vito Corleone’s (Robert De Niro) founding of the crime family. After the success of The Godfather, The Godfather Part II achieved the seemingly impossible, offering a sequel that is as beloved as the original. It boasts higher stakes, darker heights, and an even deeper dive into the cold, dark world of crime.

The sequel also gives Pacino a chance to fully embody the villainy of Corleone, capturing the whole tragedy and extent of his transformation. While The Godfather Part II is a must-see for fans of The Godfather and Pacino, it doesn’t quite eclipse the original’s tale of family and a tragic hero’s fall.

1. The Godfather (1972)

The Godfather tells the story of Michael Corleone (Pacino), who is initially reluctant to follow in the footsteps of his father, crime boss Vito (Marlon Brando), but gradually finds himself drawn deeper into the family business. Few films are as groundbreaking as The Godfather, which revolutionized the gangster genre with its sophisticated, rich storytelling and larger-than-life characters.

What The Godfather did best was make its characters relatable through their loyalty to family and the complex motivations behind their crime. While Pacino is frightening in The Godfather Part II, The Godfather allows his descent to unfold in real-time, adding to the tragedy and emotional impact. Through its revolutionary depiction of the Mafia, dazzling performances, and rich, tragic storytelling, The Godfather stands as Pacino’s very best work.

After a seven-year hiatus, the Alien franchise returned to the big screen with Alien: Romulus (2024), and left fans excited for the franchise’s future. A sequel to Alien: Romulus is on the way, while the franchise recently debuted its first official TV series, Alien: Earth(2025), assuring viewers that the revival is still going strong.

For viewers interested in the franchise’s resurgence, this guide will explain how to watch the Alien movies in order and where you can find them on Hulu, Disney+, and more.

Alien (1979)

The Alien franchise began in 1979 with the release of Alien from director Ridley Scott. It follows the crew of the spacecraft Nostromo, who are on their way home from a mission in deep space when an alien species (later identified as Xenomorphs) infiltrates their ship. Alien is one of the best sci-fi horror movies ever made. The blend of horror and sci-fi, the strong female lead in Sigourney Weaver, and the chilling and dreadful premise make it a groundbreaking and suspenseful movie.

The scene where the alien emerges through Kane’s (John Hurt) chest is considered one of cinematic history’s most iconic scenes. Alien stands out as a sort of haunted house movie set on a spaceship. It’s creative, unique, ambitious, and on par with other iconic works of sci-fi horror, such as The Thing (1982) and The Substance (2024). However, it’s not just for sci-fi horror fans as its influence on sci-fi and lasting legacy also make it a must-see for film enthusiasts in general.

Aliens (1986)

Weaver returned for the 1986 sequel, Aliens, with James Cameron signing on to direct. The film sees Ripley return to the original site of the attack on Nostromo after another ship goes dark while in the area. Aliens achieved what few sequels do, proving equivalent to Alien in quality and thrilling viewers with its exploration of a Queen Xenomorph and further character development of Ripley. 

Although it doesn’t have the advantage of the unexpected, it still manages to deliver a nonstop stream of thrills and chills. Aliens also differentiates itself from Alien by leaning more into the action genre in addition to horror and sci-fi. Viewers who loved Alien will love its sequel, which will also appeal to fans of Predator (1987) and The Terminator (1984) due to its action elements.

Alien 3 (1992)

Alien 3 takes place immediately after Aliens, where Ripley and a xenomorph crash land on the desolate planet of Fiorina 161. The film maintains the horror, sci-fi, and action elements of Alien and Aliens, but upgrades the visuals quite significantly. It’s a visually pleasing and action-packed adventure. However, the change in scenery takes away a bit of what made the first two films so iconic and puts a damper on the suspense. 

Still, it offers a satisfactory conclusion to the original trilogy for fans of the first two movies. Alien 3 is comparable to other third installment films that were well-made but didn’t quite live up to their predecessors, such as X-Men: The Last Stand (20060 and The Godfather: Part III (1990). 

Alien Resurrection (1997)

Alien Resurrection takes place 200 years after Alien 3, and sees a group of scientists resurrect Ripley through cloning with the goal of extracting alien DNA from her. The time jump and cloning premise were a bold move for the franchise that effectively offers a new and refreshing take for viewers. It also returns to the franchise’s roots in a way, pushing the boundaries like Alien with its bloody, graphic, and innovative body horror. 

Alien Resurrection’s tone is a little uneven, and it struggles to reinvent the franchise in an interesting way. Still, it is one of the funnest films in the franchise with its outlandish premise and unrestrained horror. Quality-wise, it is most similar to Alien 3, though it contains plenty of nods to the original movie’s legacy as well. Alien Resurrection may also appeal to fans of zany cloning sci-fi movies like Mickey 17 (2025).

Alien vs. Predator (2004)

Alien vs. Predator diverges from the previous Alien movies and starts a new crossover franchise with Predator. In the film, billionaire Charles Bishop Weyland’s (Lance Henriksen) expedition to Antarctica takes a dismal turn when he’s caught in the middle of a fight between two extraterrestrial species. Like Aliens, Alien vs. Predator leans heavily into the action genre. 

The crossover format means it holds some appeal for fans of both Alien and Predator, though it’s not as well-made as the films in the individual franchises. It struggles to capitalize on the sci-fi/horror elements, resulting in little genuine suspense and scares. Alien vs. Predator comes across more as a classic monster vs. monster movie, like Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) or Monsters vs. Aliens (2009). Diehard fans of the original Alien films might not like this departure from the franchise’s roots, but it’s a good choice for viewers seeking a guilty pleasure monster-esque movie.

Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)

In Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem, the fight between the Xenomorph (Alien) and Yautja (Predator) continues in a small Colorado town, where the unfortunate residents must work together if they want to survive. The film will appeal to fans of the first Alien vs. Predator movie, as it follows the original’s formula quite closely. Once again, it boasts more entertainment value than anything else, but it’s a little darker and more violent than Alien vs. Predator, which adds to a few more thrills. 

Although it received poor reviews, it’s not unlike the typical crossover film, boasting a quality similar to Freddy vs. Jason (2003) or Dracula vs. Frankenstein (1971). All these films primarily rely on the crossover format and popularity of the characters to carry them. Viewers who are content just with the spectacle of seeing these extraterrestrials together will enjoy Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem.

Prometheus (2012)

Prometheus serves as a prequel to Alien and follows archaeologists Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace) and Charlie Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green), who set off on an expedition hoping to find the origins of humanity but instead stumble on something else entirely. Fans of the first four Alien movies will love the return to the franchise’s roots after the crossover movies. 

It’s also an interesting expansion of lore that brings some truly original ideas to the franchise and deviates from the previous films’ format. Between its strong performances, dazzling visuals, and ambitious storyline, Prometheus is one of the stronger Alien entries. In addition to appealing to Alien fans, its hostile alien planet parallels movies like Prospect (2018) and Solaris (2002).

Alien: Covenant (2017)

Alien: Covenant is the sequel to Prometheus, and sees the crew on the colony ship Covenant land on what they think is a remote planet, only to stumble upon hostile aliens. The film boasts a similar quality to Prometheus, offering an exciting and action-packed story rife with suspense and body horror. At times, though, it feels a bit repetitive as it doesn’t offer anything particularly new to the franchise.

Still, it’s a solid sequel to Prometheus that satisfyingly wraps up the prequel movies. If you’re looking for a film that draws from both Alien and Prometheus, offering an interesting blend of the prequel’s themes with the signature horror of the original, you’ll enjoy Alien: Covenant.

Alien: Romulus (2024)

Alien: Romulus goes back to the franchise’s roots again, as it takes place between Alien and Aliens, though it features a brand-new cast. In the film, a group of young scavengers travels to a seemingly abandoned space station in search of scraps, only to stumble upon a terrible discovery. Alien: Romulus truly captures the spirit of Alien and Aliens, pushing the boundaries when it comes to creepiness and absurdity. 

It’s one of the first modern Alien films to really capitalize on the horror essence of the first films and deliver satisfying jump scares and chills. While it boasts the spirit of the original, it also offers enough twists and turns to feel new and unpredictable. In addition to reflecting the Alien movies, it’s reminiscent of other horror/sci-fi classics like Event Horizon (1997) and Ex MachinaI (2015). 

Kevin Hart has become one of the biggest comedy stars of the 21st century and has a lot of solid comedic performances to his name. Getting his big break as a stand-up comedian and in the Judd Apatow TV show Undeclared (2001), his stand-up albums have made him a household name in the world of comedy. Hart found his niche as a self-effacing comedian, with a bravado that never fails to undercut his ego. He has since become a consistent presence in the world of film following his debut cinematic appearance in Paper Soldiers (2002), with a focus on films made by Black filmmakers and with African-American co-stars. 

Along the way, he's developed a consistent presence on the big screen as a commercial comedy star, even if his biggest movies have often been knocked by critics. Across the last 20 years, Hart has had some fun comedic performances, whether as the star of the show or as a scene-stealing comedic sniper. Here are the 10 best Kevin Hart movies and where you can watch them on Netflix, HBO Max, and more.

Scary Movie 3 (2003)

One of Kevin Hart’s first movies, Scary Movie 3 is a goofy parody film from the early 2000s that is just silly enough to still be charming two decades later. Following the more specific horror parodies of Scary Movie (2000) and Scary Movie 2 (2001), Scary Movie 3 goes beyond the gags about The Ring (2002) and Signs (2002) for a more all-encompassing riff on the pop culture of the era.

Hart is part of the ensemble cast, with Scary Movie 3 arguably standing atop the rest of the series in terms of raw comedy and silly turns. While fans of more grounded character comedy might be annoyed by the wacky commitment of Scary Movie 3, fans of other non-stop gag flicks like The Naked Gun (2025) will love this film.

The Five-Year Engagement (2012)

A strong dramedy that mines modern romance for laughs and tears alike, The Five-Year Engagement benefits from a stacked supporting cast that includes Kevin Hart. The film stars Jason Segel and Emily Blunt as a couple whose relationship goes through various ups and downs during their long engagement.

Similar to his brief appearances in films like The 40 Year Old Virgin (2005) and This Is The End (2013), Hart’s skill as a comedic scene-stealer is on full display here. Hart’s performance as Violet’s academic colleague Doug leads to some of the film’s crassest (and funniest) comedic beats. While The Five-Year Engagement might not be for people who don’t like romantic comedies, comedic turns from comedians like Hart give it a bit of a sardonic edge that helps it stand out from other films in the genre.

Central Intelligence (2016)

One of the best comedies in Kevin Hart’s filmography, Central Intelligence proves what can happen when Hart gets paired with the right comedic partner. Hart plays Calvin Joyner, whose reunion with an old classmate from high school drags him into a chaotic CIA spy adventure. Hart and Dwayne Johnson are a terrific comedic duo, with Central Intelligence mining Johnson’s likability and Hart’s bombast for a lot of good laughs.Hart is often best when he has someone to bounce his chaotic performance off of, and Johnson turns out to be an ideal contrast to Hart, both physically and comically.

Central Intelligence understands the appeal of Hart in a way few other comedies do, and it matches his heightened performance every step of the way. Not the most dramatic or compelling film in the world, Central Intelligence is a great pick for anyone who liked Hart’s dynamics in films like Ride Along (2014) and Get Hard (2015).

The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

An early example of Hart’s effectiveness in the world of animation, The Secret Life of Pets is a cute and charming film that has a lot of fun with Hart as the chaotic rabbit named Snowball. Effectively the villain in this lighthearted film about the various animals that live in a big city and co-exist with the animals surrounding them, Snowball is the perfect vehicle for Hart to lean into. 

This is also the rare film that actually utilizes Hart’s potential in a villainous role, making his comedic habit of going manic into something that can be genuinely threatening. A solid effort from Illumination Animation that fits in neatly alongside Despicable Me (2010) and The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), The Secret Life of Pets benefits from a star-studded cast who actually find a lot of character-driven potential in the fairly basic but entertaining premise.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017)

A great adaptation of the beloved children’s book series of the same name, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is a sweet-natured ode to the original books and an adorable love letter to childish creativity. Hart stars opposite Thomas Middleditch as a pair of best friends whose efforts to keep their principal from separating them result in him being convinced he’s a superhero.

Whimsical and wacky in the best of ways, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie utilizes a similar animation style to The Peanuts Movie (2015) to recreate the cartoonish affections of the source material to charming effect. Not necessarily the right pick for adults looking for some more mature humor, younger movie fans (and young at heart) will love this charming animated adventure about the power of friendship and laughter.

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)

Arguably the best film in Kevin Hart’s filmography, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is a clever and self-aware riff on the Robin Williams original that brings the concept into the modern day. Reimagining Jumanji (1995) as a video game is a creative win for the filmmakers, establishing a new set of rules that lean into the darkly comedic. Hart plays the in-game version of Anthony "Fridge" Johnson, whose athletic build and skill set don’t translate to his game counterpart. 

Jumaji: Welcome to the Jungle indulges in all of Hart’s big comedic swings while still finding enough emotional resonance and action-adventure elements to be extremely entertaining. A fun romp that never takes itself too seriously, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is a blast, but don’t feel the need to return for Jumanji: The Next Level (2019), which fails to fully recapture the magic of this one.

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

Another strong example of what Kevin Hart can do with just a little bit of screen time, the actor’s appearance in Hobbs and Shaw fits neatly into the Fast & Furious spin-off’s more comedic tone and style. Hart appears about halfway through the film as Air Marshall Dinkley, a self-serious agent of the law who contrasts naturally against the drier comedy of Jason Statham and Dwayne Johnson.

It’s a solid bit of levity in the film, and one of the funnier gags in the movie. While it may be too short for die-hard Kevin Hart fans, it’s a solid moment that highlights how good the actor is at sudden bursts of comedy.

Fatherhood (2021)

A rare dramatic performance from Kevin Hart, Fatherhood is a solid reminder that Hart can do more than just be silly and loud. Playing a recently widowed father, Hart brings a genuine, soulful edge to his performance as a well-meaning man caught in a tragic situation. While the film may suffer from criticisms of being a bit trope-heavy, Hart is a genuine highlight.

Fans of Hart’s bigger comedies might be disappointed to see a more grounded performance from the actor, but it’s an impressive showing that feels perfect for anyone who loves melodramatic fare like This is Us (2016). If anything, Fatherhood is proof that Hart should flex his creative muscles a bit more and tackle more dramatic roles instead of just using his tried and true comedic skills.

The Man from Toronto (2022)

A goofy take on the hitman sub-genre, The Man from Toronto is a perfectly fun take on the action thriller. Hart stars opposite Woody Harrelson, who plays a no-nonsense assassin who Hart’s mild-mannered Teddy Jackson is mistaken for. This leads the pair team up for a globe-trotting adventure that benefits from some creative and fun action sequences.

While it lacks the kind of seriousness or psychological depth of other assassin comedies like In Bruges (2008), there’s a certain amount of charm that Hart brings to the film that bounces well off a comically serious Harrelson. Lightweight but entertaining in all the right ways, The Man from Toronto is a fun time for fans of either performer that works best when it lets the two of them riff off each other.

DC League of Super-Pets (2022)

Another solid entry in Kevin Hart’s animated output, DC League of Super-Pets is a goofy love letter to superheroes that has a great big heart. Hart plays opposite his frequent co-star Dwayne Johnson, this time as a pair of dogs in the city of Metropolis. Opposite Johnson’s earnest portrayal of Krypto the Super-Dog, Hart gets to have a lot of fun as the super serious pitbull Ace. 

The pair builds off the legacy of superhero contrasts that often pitted Superman and Batman against one another, with Hart doing great work as the silly dog that ends up in the Dark Knight’s orbit. Not necessarily the most dramatic retelling of the Superman or Batman mythos, DC League of Super-Pets is nevertheless a charming and cute riff on the genre.

People like me who love Christmas movies likely look forward to this time of year for the movies. But surprisingly, even the people who generally don't love holiday movies can appreciate '90s classics like Home Alone (1990) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992). The holidays also bring up spirited arguments about which adaptation of The Christmas Carol is best, and whether Die Hard (1988) is a Christmas movie or not. All of this is part of the holiday's magic, and it makes it extra fun to look back at old favorites, then discuss them amongst friends or family. 

2025 is a tough year for a lot of people, and it's making us cling to nostalgia even harder. With movies like While You Were Sleeping (1995) celebrating their thirtieth anniversary, here are the 10 best Christmas movies to watch in 2025, as well as where to find them on Disney+, Netflix, and more.  

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

As saccharine as it might sound, there are few movies that actually have the genuine ability to inspire people to keep going. Throughout the year, it's easy to get inside our heads and wonder if we've made an impact on anyone or whether we'll be missed, but the warmth of It's a Wonderful Life always manages to be a real reminder that we don't quite know how many lives a single person can impact. James Stewart's timeless portrayal of George Bailey gets better and better with every viewing, and as the years pass, the film becomes increasingly more beautiful.

If there's one Christmas movie that every type of viewer should watch at least once in their life, it's undoubtedly It's a Wonderful Life. In every way, it embodies the spirit of the season by highlighting the importance of sharing our love with those around us. It's amazing that to this day, no one's even attempted a remake of it, and it's because we all know it'd be impossible to top. 

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Art is subjective, and no two people will ever love the same property the same way, but if there's one thing I'll always get on my high horse about, it's The Muppet Christmas Carol. There is no adaptation of Dickens' Christmas Carol that's as perfect, and I'm willing to stand by this fact. It's top-tier. Indescribable. From the music to the production design, it's the one version where the story hits the hardest and evokes every warm and inspiring feeling it's meant to.

Sir Michael Caine not only delivers the most heartfelt embodiment of Scrooge, but his transformation feels entirely organic. It's believable that these three ghosts, all in Muppet form, would get to the perpetual grump, and no Scrooge's final few moments in the film feel as earned. Plus, Gonzo as Dickens with Rizzo the Rat as himself narrating? Unbeatable. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves the Muppets, but also for those who have deep '90s nostalgia. 

Home Alone (1990)

There's simply no Christmas without Kevin McCallister and the Wet Bandits. The outrageous humor etched into Home Alone makes it the type of holiday staple that's so fun for the whole family that even those who typically don't rewatch films are okay with Home Alone every year. (My family! They'll complain about having to rewatch every movie but never Home Alone.) 

Perfect for the viewers who are nostalgic for cozy houses, '90s antics, and bonkers booby traps, nothing beats the gags in Home Alone. It's hard to believe that there may be a single person in the world who still hasn't seen it, because that's the level of tremendous impact it has on the holiday season. So much of the humor and hijinks have inspired countless other films that have followed, making it an absolute must-watch every year. But perhaps especially in 2025, in case you're dreaming of real estate while most of us can't afford to even look at a house.

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Sequels are seldom better than the original or even as good, but Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is always my personal favorite. Kevin McCallister left behind again and using his dad's credit card to stay at the Plaza hotel is basically every kid's dream. Who wouldn't want that, at least once? But more than that, the heart in Home Alone 2 is what always gets to me, and we see it most poignantly through the pigeon lady. Through her, we get an honest depiction of the reminder that kindness can go incredibly far and leave a monumental mark on someone. 

Plus, there's something especially cozy about Kevin and his mom reuniting in front of the Rockefeller Christmas tree because she knows that's exactly where he'd be. For viewers wanting to experience a classic New York Christmas vicariously, no movie captures the vibes as immaculately as Home Alone 2. Plus, as absurd as the hijinks are with the Wet Bandits returning, somehow it's fully believable, and there's no questioning that everything that happens can actually happen. 

The Family Stone (2005)

With the unexpected and heartbreaking passing of the legendary Diane Keaton this year, a lot of people are revisiting the Stone family to cope with their shock. Genuinely hilarious, achingly tender, and heartbreaking, The Family Stone is a holiday staple for countless reasons and in many households. While the death of Keaton's Sybil is going to hit even harder this year, it may even be comforting for some viewers to watch how much love was infused into the matriarch's role. 

The Family Stone is a holiday must-watch for many reasons, but perhaps more importantly because the viewers who connect to its premise feel deeply seen. There are plenty of great holiday family films out there, like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989), but the complex characters and lingering sadness threaded throughout The Family Stone undoubtedly makes people feel a little less alone in their own struggles. Plus, with stars like Rachel McAdams, Sarah Jessica Parker, Dermot Mulroney, Luke Wilson, Claire Danes, Craig T. Nelson, Elizabeth Reaser, Brian J. White, Paul Schneider, alongside Keaton, it's now a twenty-year-old classic that still holds up. 

The Holiday (2006)

There's something about romance and the holidays that makes everything extra sweet, but with the influx of movies to choose from, there are two that should never be skipped, and The Holiday is one of them. With an exceptional cast, starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black, Eli Wallach, Rufus Sewell, and more, The Holiday is indescribable magic in movie form. We not only get one perfect romance, but two, and to top things off, Jude Law as a single dad doing Mr. Napkin Head? Need I say more?.

The Holiday delivers everything for viewers wanting to see believable love stories after heartbreak—second chances in the form of finding the right person at the right time in the right place. Set in a dreamy fictional cottage in England and a grand estate in Los Angeles, it's the type of movie that not only feels like the perfect romantic escape, but it's also a film that honors storytelling and character journeys beautifully. 

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Like The Holiday, While You Were Sleeping is a Christmas must-watch—and it's especially relevant in 2025 as it's the thirtieth anniversary. Bill Pullman and Sandra Bullock make the ultimate dream team in an achingly romantic story that's all about finding love in the most unexpected way. Lucy is the kind of heroine whose loneliness feels so relatable that her journey results in a story that we don't often see as poignantly. 

In addition, how the movie expertly balances ridiculous humor and sweepingly romantic moments is no small feat, making it the kind of story that gets better and better with every viewing. While You Were Sleeping is essential viewing for fans who love cozy rom-coms like Serendipity (2001). The films may be vastly different in the tropes they cover, but the essence of the romance feels comparable. Plus, the holiday vibes are extra nostalgic, with character development and male yearning that should be considered the blueprint.

Eloise at Christmastime (2003)

Netflix recently announced its plans to remake a live-action Eloise film, and to that I'd say, why touch something perfect? And because of this, it feels imperative to beg viewers to add Eloise at Christmastime to their watchlist in 2025, because few things can capture the magic of Christmas and simultaneously New York City. If you love Home Alone 2 and somehow didn't know about the adaptations of Kay Thompson and Hilary Knight's novels, then run, don't walk to watch it.

For starters, the film is brimming with incredible stars like Julie Andrews, Christine Baranski, Gavin Creel, Jeffrey Tambor, and more, along with Sofia Vassilieva as the titular character. But more importantly, the bond between Eloise and Bill results in one of the sweetest intergenerational friendships to grace our screens. It's a must-watch for Broadway fans who know the late and legendary Creel through his inimitable impact on the community, but it's also delicately wholesome in a way that feels timeless. There’s even a romance between Creel's Bill and Sara Topham's Rachel that's precious in every way.

The Spirit of Christmas (2015)

I'll take up every opportunity presented to talk about the underrated gem that is Lifetime's The Spirit of Christmas. This one's for the romance fans, the ones who love cheesy romantic comedies and outlandish plots like hot ghosts. It demands that viewers suspend disbelief, and it's also imperative that a viewer loves romance because otherwise, it's not meant for you. Still, for the people who want a unique Christmas romance with one of the most gorgeous fictional inns and all the delicious tropes, then look no further.

The Spirit of Christmas follows Kate, a jaded lawyer who's sent to an inn to get it appraised, only she ends up falling in love with Daniel, the hot ghost, who haunts it for twelve days out of the year. It's ridiculously cheesy, but thoroughly charming, surprisingly hilarious, and genuinely cozy from start to finish. It's especially perfect for the viewers who grew up traumatized by Casper (1995) and want a healing adult romance that actually delivers a happy ending. 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Not every person is in the holiday spirit this year, and thankfully, for those who aren't, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is always there to validate every grumpy feeling. Hilarious, ridiculously quotable, and featuring some of the best production design from the early 2000s, everything about the movie still holds up perfectly. It also turns twenty-five this year, making it the perfect time to rewatch it again in 2025. 

It's without a doubt the best adaptation for those who love the classic Dr. Seuss story, but it's also a great live-action Christmas movie in general. Jim Carrey's version of the Grinch is too relatable and the story genuinely gets funnier with every viewing. Bonus points if you watch it when you're extra grouchy because it makes all the jokes land in a different way.

The Cat in the Hat is returning to the big screen in 2026 for the first time in 23 years. The anthropomorphic cat in a top hat and bowtie with a penchant for tricks and mischief is one of Dr. Seuss’ most famous characters. However, he’s also one of the trickiest to adapt to the screen.

The last movie adaptation, The Cat in the Hat (2003), was received so poorly that Dr. Seuss’ widow, Audrey Geisel, banned further live-action adaptations of the character. Hence, hopes and fears are high for the upcoming animated adaptation of The Cat in the Hat (2026). Viewers interested in catching up with The Cat in the Hat’s film and TV history can use our guide to find out how to watch his movies and shows on platforms like Peacock before the new film.

The Cat in the Hat (1971)

The Cat in the Hat (1971) is an animated TV special that follows the Cat in the Hat (Allan Sherman) as he drops in on siblings Sally (Pamelyn Ferdin) and Conrad (Tony Frazier), who are left home alone, and helps them have some fun. It’s a charming musical special that offers a vibrant adaptation of the source material. Spoken in Dr. Seuss’ signature rhymes and peppered with amusing musical numbers, The Cat in the Hat is an excellent, nostalgic cartoon.

Viewers today will still find the songs catchy and the Cat’s eccentricity amusing and charming. There are endless quotable lines and many vibrant, colorful scenes, making The Cat in the Hat a fairly accurate adaptation. Fans of early Dr. Seuss cartoon adaptations like How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) and The Lorax (1972) will especially enjoy this adaptation.

Dr. Seuss on the Loose (1973)

Dr. Seuss on the Loose is another animated TV special in which the Cat in the Hat (Sherman) hosts three Dr. Seuss stories: The Sneetches, The Zax, and Green Eggs and Ham. The Cat is hilarious as the host while the animated anthology delivers on three excellent Dr. Seuss stories. Its animation and songs are comparable to The Cat in the Hat (1971), but it offers more in the way of storytelling, capturing both humor and charming life lessons in each story.

The trio of tales works well together, putting two of Dr. Seuss’ more obscure stories with the wildly popular Green Eggs and Ham. They all share some thematic similarities and work well as a showcase of Dr. Seuss’ work. If you love animated musical anthologies of the ‘70s, like The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977), you’ll love Dr. Seuss on the Loose.

The Grinch Grinches the Cat in the Hat (1982)

The Grinch Grinches the Cat in the Hat is an animated TV special in which The Grinch (Bob Holt) and The Cat in the Hat (Mason Adams) cross paths with disastrous results. Between the crossover of two of Dr. Seuss’ most iconic creations and the fantastic songs by Sesame Street (1969) composer Joe Raposo, The Grinch Grinches the Cat in the Hat is one of the best Cat in the Hat adaptations to date. It also boasts an original story that expands upon Dr. Seuss’ work in a refreshing, creative way.

The Cat in the Hat and The Grinch are an irresistible duo, thanks to their opposing personalities. Ultimately, The Grinch Grinches the Cat in Hat is an excellent, enjoyable, and cute animated special that is bound to stir nostalgia and comfort for modern viewers. 

The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss (1996-1998)

The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss is a puppet series that prominently features the Cat in the Hat (Bruce Lanoil and Martin P. Robinson). Season 1 takes on an anthology format similar to Dr. Seuss on the Loose, with the Cat hosting various Dr. Seuss stories, while Season 2 follows the Cat’s adventure in a fatherly role to his Little Cats. Produced by the Jim Henson Company, The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss is just as magical as one would anticipate a Henson and Seuss crossover to be.

The puppeteering is excellent, and the show is lighthearted, sweet, and filled with life lessons, making it perfect for families. It’s a wonderful mix of puppetry and animation with catchy tunes and memorable rhymes. Viewers who enjoyed Dr. Seuss on the Loose but are seeking something with a more The Muppets (2011) vibe will love The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss.

The Cat in the Hat (2003)

The Cat in the Hat (2003) follows the eponymous Cat (Mike Myers), who shows up to entertain the bored Sally (Dakota Fanning) and Conrad Walden (Spencer Breslin) while their parents run errands. There’s also an original subplot where the Walden family’s scheming, sleazy neighbor, Larry (Alec Baldwin), tries to marry Conrad and Sally’s mother to steal her wealth. Hence, the story takes on a bit of maturity, resulting in more slapstick and potty humor than the lighthearted mischief of the original story.

Despite poor reviews, including from Dr. Seuss’ family and estate, The Cat in the Hat isn’t a bad movie. So long as one isn’t expecting a faithful adaptation, they can enjoy the absurdity and oddball humor in this more original adaptation. Fans of the other highly divisive Dr. Seuss adaptation, How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), will want to give The Cat in the Hat a try.

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! (2010-2018)

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! Is an animated musical kids’ show that centers on the many adventures of the Cat (Martin Short) and his neighbors, Sally (Alexa Torrington and Halle Nunes) and Nick (Jacob Ewaniuk and Deandray Hamilton). It’s an excellent rendition of Dr. Seuss’ work, with the animation beautifully capturing his illustrations, making it feel like flipping through one of his books. Meanwhile, Short is the perfect choice to voice the whimsical, rhyming Cat.

In addition to offering a charming, nostalgic adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ work, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! is also educational, incorporating a variety of fun scientific lessons in its episodes. If your kids love Dr. Seuss and are interested in educational shows like Sid the Science Kid (2008) that make learning fun, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! is the show for them.

The Cat in the Hat (2026)

The Cat in the Hat is an upcoming animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ book of the same name. Aside from The Cat in the Hat (2003), it is the only feature-length adaptation of the work. In the film, The Cat (Bill Hader) works for the Institute for the Institution of Imagination and Inspiration, LLC, and takes on an assignment to help a young sibling pair adjust to their new town.

If successful, Warner Bros. intends to use it as the starting point for a shared cinematic universe of Dr. Seuss adaptations. Given the success of The Lorax (2012) and the promise of Hader’s voice acting and modern, innovative animation, The Cat in the Hat may prove a worthy adaptation. 

Underneath the long-stretching umbrella of fantasy is sword and sorcery. As a staple of the genre, these types of stories feature rugged heroes, armed with a blade, courage, and little else. Their missions are personal and frequently involve bloody vengeance. Unlike the high fantasy in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, sword and sorcery stories are intimate and down-to-earth despite the fantastical stakes. While they make for fun watches, the expected beats can become tiresome.

If you've watched Conan the Barbarian (1982) or Willow (1988) dozens of times, sword and sorcery might have lost its edge. Whether you want a subversion of the same tropes or something entirely different, here are 7 fantasy shows to watch if you're bored by the standard sword and sorcery fare and want something new to watch on Netflix, HBO Max, and other streamers. 

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End (2023-Present)

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End isn't clear-cut sword and sorcery; it offers a unique subversion of many of the subgenre's best elements. Picking up decades after an epic showdown with the Demon King, the series follows Frieren (Atsumi Tanezaki/Mallorie Rodak), a near-immortal elf mage who begins to realize how different her life is compared to her human companions. Time moves differently for Frieren, and what's only a short while for her can literally be the entirety of her friends' lives.

Beautifully animated, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is an epic watch for any anime fan. However, its character-driven story, emotional beats, and deep exploration of existential themes make it a worthy addition to anyone's watchlist, especially if you like fantasy. As someone who generally avoids anime, Frieren is the exception, and it easily ranks among my favorite series of all time. The action isn't as bombastic as other sword and sorcery offerings, but Frieren's slower, contemplative moments are what make it so lovable and different.

The Witcher (2019-Present)

If you have Netflix, chances are you already know about The Witcher, which frequently wanders into the Top 10 whenever a new season drops. However, if you haven't tried it yet, consider changing that. The series, like the books and video games that inspired it, follows the titular Witcher Geralt, who must contend with mythical monsters and sinister humans. While it's pretty standard sword and sorcery at first glance, The Witcher offers darker plot points and more morally gray characters than you might expect.

Like Frieren, Geralt has a set of magical abilities that aid his monster hunting. If you like historically set shows with frequent action, like Spartacus (2010) or Black Sails (2014), The Witcher has a similar vibe, just with more worldbuilding and fantasy. Henry Cavill's departure in Season 3 might be jarring to some. However, Liam Hemsworth makes a compelling Geralt, depending on who you ask.

Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Game of Thrones is high fantasy. While that alone might be enough to convince audiences bored of sword and sorcery to watch, it still retains some of the subgenre's tropes… in case you're not quite ready to let it go entirely. Dripping with morally gray characters, Game of Thrones isn't just one hero's story. Really, it's about the world of Westeros and the many powerful families vying for power.

Well-rounded storytelling ensures you get to know all these characters intimately, giving it a more grounded sword and sorcery-esque appeal. Perhaps more mature than any other entry on this list, Game of Thrones has oodles of violence, dark themes, and nudity. It remains a cultural phenomenon for a reason, with each season inching toward the question you'll have from Episode 1: Who will sit on the Iron Throne? Don't let anyone tell you the final season "ruins" the series. Even with all its faults and fumbles in the end, Game of Thrones still ranks in my Top 10 favorite shows of all time.

Arcane (2021-2024)

Arcane is the answer for anyone wanting to fully turn their back on traditional medieval-style sword and sorcery. Set in the universe of Riot Games' League of Legends universe, this two-season series offers fantasy infused with steampunk energy and sci-fi sensibilities. Like Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, Arcane also puts female protagonists at its center, as sister duo Vi (Hailee Steinfeld) and Jinx (Ella Purnell) become entangled in a battle between their native city and the growing power of Piltover.

In addition to magic, the characters also utilize modern tech, including weapons, techy gauntlets, and cybernetic arms. Truthfully, Arcane is experimental, but it works. The genre mash-up makes for a fun and emotional action-adventure that you don't come across every day. I want to compare it to The Legend of Korra (2012) or even Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022), but really, it belongs in its own category.

Into the Badlands (2015-2019)

Good luck putting Into the Badlands into just one genre. Like Arcane, the three-season series blends multiple genres to deliver a fantasy story equally steeped in sci-fi, martial arts, and dystopian elements. Set 500 years in the future, Into the Badlands puts an unlikely duo in the spotlight when a mighty warrior named Sunny (Daniel Wu) sets out on a long and dangerous journey with a teenage boy, M.K. (Aramis Knight).

M.K.'s supernatural powers give the series a "sorcery" feel, while Sunny's prowess with a sword will impress any sword and sorcery connoisseur. (Firearms are banned in this world, so don't expect any high-tech weapons to make an appearance. It's medieval-style weaponry or nothing.) Although fantasy purists might be disappointed with the show's futuristic setting, anyone searching for a subversion of the genre will get plenty of that and more.

Castlevania (2017-2021)

Castlevania falls into the sword and sorcery subgenre for two reasons: It has swords, and it has magic. However, the inclusion of gothic horror and supernatural powers places it in a unique category. Pulling from the famed video game series, Netflix's animated show follows Trevor Belmont (Richard Armitage) and Sypha Belnades (Alejandra Reynoso) on their quest to protect themselves and the Romanian region of Wallachia from Dracula (Graham McTavish). 

The four-season series offers a good balance of action, up-close-and-personal character moments, and some genuine horror. Don't let the animation fool you into thinking it's for kids. Castlevania is gory, violent, and chock-full of mature themes. If you ever thought, "I wish my fantasy had vampires," this one is for you. And, hey, even if that's never crossed your mind, the combination of fantasy and supernatural elements might be exactly what you need for your sword and sorcery slump.  

The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)

What makes The Last Kingdom different from the other entries on this list is its setting. Set in 9th and 10th-century England during the Viking invasions, this five-season series fits most comfortably into the historical drama category. That said, it carries an almost Arthurian vibe, with legendary weapons and dark magic.

Its political plotlines aren't quite as complicated as Game of Thrones; however, that's not necessarily a bad thing. For many, The Last Kingdom is easy to jump into, and Uhtred (Alexander Dreymon) makes one heck of a likable protagonist as he navigates complex feelings about his split Saxon and Viking roots. If you like action, you'll also get plenty of it. The Last Kingdom has some of the best (and most realistic) battles and swordfights around. 

A large part of the appeal of Netflix's Wednesday (2022)  is how it expertly balances young adult adventures with dark events through an efficiently palatable lens. It might not be appealing for those who prefer more outright horror. However, it can be a great segue for those who are scaredy-cats but still adore the original Addams Family films. It's spooky with paranormal twists and turns, but simultaneously, it's an interesting reflection of what it means to be a teen and go through human woes that feel surprisingly relatable.

More importantly, amid all its darkness, what makes Wednesday so delightful is that, at its core, it's a story about the lengths the titular character will go to protect those she loves. There aren't many TV shows that capture the same magic as Wednesday, but we've curated a list of five series that are just as delightfully dark, as well as where you can watch them on Netflix, Paramount+, and more. 

School Spirits (2023-Present)

School Spirits is Paramount+'s underrated hidden gem that follows a group of teens who died and became ghosts at Split River High School. While the school itself might not be as gloomy as Nevermore Academy, the series carefully takes on dark themes, such as grief, death, sexual assault, addiction, murder, and legacies. It especially shines because of its cast, led to perfection by Peyton List, but it's the character dynamics throughout that make it so special.

One of the ghosts, Sarah Yarkin's Rhonda, is particularly similar to Wednesday as a stoic icon, and the two would undoubtedly get along if they existed in the same space. Ultimately, School Spirits is full of haunts, young adult angst, and surprising moments of wholesome joy that can be specifically comforting for viewers who love Ghosts (2021). 

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018-2020)

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina might be the closest thing to Wednesday and the polar opposite of an original series like Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996). This one's especially perfect for anyone who loved Riverdale (2017), and it's best suited for viewers who want true witchy vibes. Kiernan Shipka consistently delivers an incredible performance, and like Jenna Ortega, she takes a beloved character and makes her completely unique. 

The series might not be suited for viewers who prefer dark vibes that aren't too scary, but it's still an absolute must-watch for how it handles spooky elements amid teenage woes. It's fun, extremely campy, and thoroughly enjoyable as a standalone series for newcomers or those who might be more familiar with the Archie comics. 

Stranger Things (2016-2025) 

As far as delightfully dark TV shows go, very few things top Stranger Things. It's not for the faint-hearted, but it's also still the type of show that every scaredy-cat can likely stomach. (If I can, so can you.) But more than anything, the darkness in Stranger Things is made better entirely because of the characters, and that's exactly what makes Wednesday great, too. We're seated for Jenna Ortega's perfect embodiment of the iconic character, and years from now, characters in Stranger Things will likely have a similar legacy.

Hawkins, Indiana, as a town, has similar vibes to Jericho, Vermont, and while the gothic elements might be swapped for more grotesque bits of horror, the locations feel like they can exist in the same place. More than anything, Stranger Things is, at its core, a series about friendships, so it's what makes every beat of the darkness delightful.  

Shadow and Bone (2021-2023)

Though it was unfortunately canceled after its second season, Shadow and Bone is a delightfully dark young adult fantasy that marries a rare magic system with real-world perils to make the series incredible. Based on the bestselling novels by Leigh Bardugo, the characters in Ravka, Ketterdam, and various other fictional locations are all twisted in some way, broken and bruised while trying to survive a shadow destruction created by Ben Barnes' the Darkling, a literal Shadow Summoner. 

With a perfect cast that embodies the book characters brilliantly, Shadow and Bone is a must-watch for viewers who love the unlikely friendships on Wednesday. Freddie Carter's Kaz Brekker, in many ways, is the male version of Wednesday Addams, which makes his role extra dark and delightful. While the series doesn't deal with classic monster lore as heavily as Wednesday does, it's still gruesome in its own way. 

Lockwood & Co. (2023)

Yet another series that was unfortunately canceled far too soon, Lockwood & Co. takes viewers through an alternate reality in London where ghosts roam freely and a group of teenagers are the ones tasked with ghost-hunting. The series became a fandom phenomenon for its found family vibes and wholesome character beats throughout the dark series, and it also garnered multiple campaigns for a renewal that sadly never happened.

Still, Lockwood & Co. is undoubtedly worth watching for the viewers who want a delightfully dark and spooky young adult series similar to Wednesday. In addition, like Wednesday, the series also explores mystery elements that the viewers uncover alongside the characters, making it a procedural of sorts. Ruby Stokes' Lucy Carlyle is just as memorable as a leading female character, and fans of the series thankfully also have Jonathan Stroud's books to turn to afterward. 

In 2000, Battle Royale shocked and delighted viewers with its brutal premise and young cast members. The film became a cultural phenomenon and executed its bloody premise so perfectly that works with similar premises are now known as the battle royale genre. 

This genre includes movies both before and after Battle Royale that include a select group of participants killing each other for a game, competition, or experiment until only one survivor remains. Viewers interested in the thrilling and brutal genre can use our guide to find the best battle royale movies on HBO Max, MGM+, and more.

The Running Man (1987)

Based on the Stephen King novel of the same name, The Running Man follows the wrongfully incarcerated Ben Richards (Arnold Schwarzenegger), who competes in the deadly Running Man competition, where he must survive numerous professional assassins to gain his freedom. The Running Man leans a little more into action than other battle royale movies, which tend to center on horror. However, the dystopian premise and Richards’ need to kill to survive make it one of the earlier battle royale movies.

Schwarzenegger makes quite the action hero out of Richards and owns the role so well that it's comparable to his iconic Terminator (1984) performance. The dystopian premise is executed with just enough resemblance to the modern day to add some eeriness and thoughtfulness to the movie. Fans of King’s other dystopian survival film, The Long Walk (2025), will especially be intrigued by The Running Man.

Mean Guns (1997)

Means Guns is another early battle royale movie in which crime syndicate member Vincent Moon (Ice-T) traps 100 people who have wronged the syndicate and forces them to fight each other to the death until only three remain. The film leans even more into action than The Running Man, since there isn’t much depth to the situation or the killings. Even so, it’s wildly entertaining as an extended, gory, gritty free-for-all with endless exciting action scenes.

Mean Guns is a little outlandish in its premise and a little bit corny in execution. However, it found a cult following among fans for its unusual and creative style. If you love never-ending action to the backdrop of mambo music, you’ll want to give Mean Guns a try.

Battle Royale (2000)

Battle Royale, the namesake of the battle royale genre, takes place in a totalitarian Japan where the government selects a random group of high school students and forces them to fight to the death until only one victor remains as an attempt to curb juvenile delinquency. The film is dark, bloody, and thought-provoking. While several “battle royale” movies came before it, Battle Royale particularly jarred viewers with the idea of youth being subjected to such violence and horror.

However, the grisly, gory violence isn’t just for thrills. Although the premise gets viewers’ adrenaline pumping and keeps them riveted with the suspense and tension, Battle Royale also stands out for its sharp satire of juvenile delinquency hysteria and adult paranoia. Fans of thought-provoking dystopian works centered on young characters, like The Long Walk and The Hunger Games (2012), will love Battle Royale.

The Hunger Games (2012)

The Hunger Games, based on Suzanne Collins’ book series of the same name, takes place in the dystopian world of Panem, where, to dissuade rebellion, the Capitol forces each of Panem’s 12 districts to give up a boy and a girl annually to fight to the death in the Hunger Games. Viewers follow Katniss Everdeen’s (Jennifer Lawrence) harrowing experience after she’s selected for the 74th Hunger Games. The Hunger Games bears some striking similarities to Battle Royale and The Long Walk.

It boasts a similar level of action, horror, and thrills as viewers watch the children fight for survival in brutal fashion. However, it also stands out for its sharper themes about oppression and authoritarianism. The political commentary on oligarchies and the gap between the rich and poor remains especially relevant today. The Hunger Games most closely parallels Squid Game (2021) in its excellent, engaging suspense and tension, as well as its sharp, clever commentary.

The Purge (2013)

The Purge takes place in an alternative America, where the New Founding Fathers attain power and enact the annual “Purge,” during which all crime, including murder, is legal for 12 hours, forcing many individuals and families to fight for survival. It’s a unique spin on the battle royale premise, moving away from the deadly competition trope and instead imagining a dark, grisly free-for-all period of lawlessness in which only the strongest will survive. The movie plays out a bit like a home-invasion thriller, centering on one wealthy family’s struggle to endure the night.

Like The Hunger Games and Squid Game, The Purge also offers some sharp political commentary, serving as an allegory for the divide between the rich and the poor and the government’s indifference to those disproportionately impacted by its policies. Although it sometimes loses sight of its allegory, it always maintains high intensity and suspense.

The Belko Experiment (2016)

The Belko Experiment centers on a group of employees at Belko Industries who find themselves trapped in a sadistic experiment in which they’re locked in the office building and forced to kill each other until only one remains. It feels like a cross between Mean Guns and Battle Royale, boasting the free-for-all, gruesome action of the former but also some of the moral quandaries of the latter. Although it boasts carnage similar to that of most movies on this list, it goes even darker than most.

Rather than focusing on oppression and survival, it seeks to tell a dark, disturbing tale of what human nature truly is when tested. Hence, it’s a little more uncomfortable, dark, and bleak than thrilling and tense. The gloomy atmosphere makes The Belko Experiment feel more like The Killing Room (2009). 

Assassination Nation (2018)

Assassination Nation tells the story of four girls who fight for survival against an angry mob in their small town after they’re framed for a series of hacks revealing residents’ dark secrets. Like The Purge, the movie offers a creative take on the battle royale premise. While Assassination Nation offers the usual thrill of a final, grand battle royale as the mob sparks an all-out fight to the death, it’s also distinct in utilizing a small-town riot as the medium for death rather than a competition.

Assassination Nation is also quite clever in its themes and ideas. It gives you a lot to think about in terms of secrets, the digital age, and hysteria, serving as a sort of modern-day spin on the Salem Witch Trials. Fans of dark horror comedies centered on hysteria, like Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022), will especially enjoy the darkly comedic Assassination Nation.

The Hunt (2020)

The Hunt centers on a group of wealthy, elite citizens who round up 12 working-class Americans and bring them to an isolated forest to hunt them for game. Although it starts as a Most Dangerous Game-esque movie, it quickly morphs into battle royale territory as one of the hunted decides to turn the tables on her hunters. Like The Purge and Assassination Nation, it’s a more unique take on the battle royale genre.

The Hunt also aims for political commentary, as director Craig Zobel intended it as an allegory of political polarization in the United States. It misses the mark a bit and struggles to be truly apolitical, but it is nonetheless a thought-provoking work for those interested in the current state of politics. Even if the political message misses the mark, The Hunt is still a bloody good time for viewers looking for a dark, brutal battle royale. 

Luke Perry was a rare performer with a quiet magnetism and a gaze that could shift from brooding to broken in a heartbeat. He became the kind of actor who defined a generation without ever seeming to try. When Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990) exploded in the '90s, his character, Dylan McKay, gave teen angst a pulse and made vulnerability look fearless.

But Perry's impact extended far beyond West Beverly High. Across film and television, he stepped into roles that pushed against expectations. No matter the genre, he gave life to characters who might otherwise have been one-dimensional. Here's a closer look at the 10 best Luke Perry movies and TV shows in order of release and where you can find them on Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video.

Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-2000)

Set in the affluent world of West Beverly Hills High School, Beverly Hills, 90210 chronicles the lives of privileged teenagers as they tackle issues far beyond parties and prom. Luke Perry plays Dylan McKay, the aloof yet magnetic loner from a broken home whose battles with alcoholism, grief, and self-destruction makes him one of the show's most compelling figures.

His storyline with Brenda Walsh (Shannen Doherty) became one of the show's biggest highlights, with a super hardcore fan following. The show was a ratings success, and while critics initially dismissed it as a soap opera for teens, its willingness to explore heavy themes gave it strong credibility. It's an excellent choice for Dawson's Creek (1998) fans or anyone who wants to relive '90s teen culture.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992)

Long before the television series redefined supernatural storytelling, the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer film embraced quirky horror comedy. The story follows Buffy (Kristy Swanson), a fashion-obsessed high school cheerleader who discovers she's been chosen to battle the undead. Perry plays Oliver Pike, the leather-jacketed slacker who eventually becomes her loyal ally and romantic interest.

Their unlikely partnership drives much of the story as Pike transitions from apathetic teen to vampire fighter. Perry's low-key charisma made him a memorable part of the Buffyverse's earliest iteration. Although the movie earned mostly poor reviews, it became a cult classic after the series' success. Fans of cult horror-comedies like The Craft (1996) or Teen Witch (1989) will enjoy his playful charm

Terminal Bliss (1992)

A snapshot of early '90s disillusionment, Terminal Bliss follows two wealthy teens, John (Luke Perry) and Alex (Timothy Owen), as they spiral into a haze of privilege-fueled recklessness. Caught in a toxic friendship and a volatile love triangle, the two begin to fall apart as their trust in each other starts to falter.

The film takes a hard look at things like performative masculinity and the price of moral detachment, painting a portrait of youth undone by its own abundance. While the film was met with largely negative reviews, Perry was praised for shedding his teen idol image in favor of a flawed, self-destructive, complex character. Fans of angst dramas or films like Dead Poets Society (1989) will love it.

8 Seconds (1994)

8 Seconds sees Perry portray real-life rodeo legend Lane Frost. The movie chronicles his rise through the competitive and punishing world of bull riding. The film follows Frost from his early ambitions on the circuit to his complex relationship with his father, who struggles to reconcile pride with disappointment. Lane's professional and personal lives eventually turn to chaos due to the brutal realities of fame and the dangers of the sport he has chosen.

The story, which includes his friendship with rider Tuff Hedeman (Stephen Baldwin), builds toward Frost's tragic death, which still echoes in the rodeo community. Critics praised Perry for his physical transformation and emotional vulnerability, which gave the film its soul. Fans of biopics like Seabiscuit (2003) or Ali (2001) will connect with his portrayal of ambition meeting tragedy. 

Normal Life (1996)

Normal Life tells the story of Chris and Pam Anderson, a seemingly regular Midwestern couple whose pursuit of excitement turns into a string of armed robberies. Perry plays Chris, a disillusioned police officer who is easily swayed by his wife (Ashley Judd). What starts out as a rebellion against their mundane existence eventually turns into a seriously dangerous cycle of crime and codependency.

The film paints a bleak portrait of love and explores how relationships can become toxic when mixed with desperation. Based on the real lives of Jeffrey and Jill Erickson, the movie was praised for its realism and refusal to glamorize the outlaw lifestyle. Perry's portrayal of Chris perfectly captured a man torn between loyalty and fear. It's a must for fans of crime dramas like Natural Born Killers (1994).

Oz (1997-2003)

Oz is set inside the walls of Oswald State Correctional Facility, a fictional maximum-security prison that operates an experimental unit called Emerald City, which is an open-concept cell block designed to encourage inmate rehabilitation through controlled freedoms. Perry appears in Season 4 as Reverend Jeremiah Cloutier, a wealthy, high-profile televangelist convicted of embezzlement and fraud.

His presence disrupts established hierarchies and places him in the crosshairs of gang leaders and those who think that faith is a threat or weakness. Perry's character arc was hailed as one of the more intellectually provocative in a show known for emotional and physical extremes. Fans of gritty ensemble dramas like Sons of Anarchy (2008) will appreciate the tension he brings to the show. If you haven't seen Perry since Beverly Hills, 90210, you'll get to watch him in a series that is much more mature, violent, and boundary-pushing than his teen angst origins. 

Windfall (2006)

Windfall follows a group of close friends whose lives spiral after they win a massive lottery jackpot. Perry plays Peter Schaefer, a married man entangled in a secret affair that begins to fall apart once money becomes a factor. As betrayal, jealousy, and power struggles start to surface, Peter's desire to start fresh becomes complicated.

Overall, the series is about how wealth can destroy even the most solid relationships. Although it only lasted one season, the story explores the very real consequences of overnight riches. Critics praised the ambition of its premise, along with Perry's performance, particularly in scenes that dealt with regret and ethical compromise. It’s a must-see for anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas like Big Little Lies (2017).

John from Cincinnati (2007)

Set in Imperial Beach, California, John from Cincinnati blends family dysfunction with "magic realism." The show centers on the Yost family, former surfing royalty who are now struggling with addiction, resentment, and broken legacy. Perry plays Linc Stark, a morally ambiguous surf promoter looking to resurrect his own career by exploiting the Yosts' return to fame.

Things get weird when John Monad (Austin Nichols) enters their lives. Though the series was polarizing, critics found Perry's performance refreshingly grounded amid the philosophical drama. Fans of Twin Peaks (1990) will find his performance a subtle highlight of the show since Linc embodies the kind of human complexity Perry thrives in.

Riverdale (2017-2023)

Based on the Archie Comics, Riverdale transforms a once-wholesome world into a noir-inspired teen mystery drama. Perry stars as Fred Andrews, a small-town construction business owner trying to raise his son, Archie (KJ Apa), with honesty and compassion. Fred becomes a stabilizing force in a town plagued by murder, secrets, and corruption.

Perry's performance was praised by critics because Fred tackled everything from vigilantism to political corruption. Many described the character as a powerful moral compass in a series that prided itself in blurring the lines between right and wrong. The actor's death in 2019 left a giant hole in the series. He later was mourned on screen in a tribute episode. It’s a must-watch for fans of the Archie Comics.

Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019)

Quentin Tarantino's revisionist take on 1969 Los Angeles weaves together the fictional story of fading actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double with real-life events surrounding the Manson Family. Perry appears as Wayne Maunder, an actor working on the Western show Lancer, where Dalton guest stars.

Though Perry's screen time is brief, his role is a subtle, respectful nod to the golden age of television cowboys. Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood was a critical and commercial success, and Perry's final performance was seen by many as a fitting, elegant close to a storied career. Fans of Tarantino or period Hollywood storytelling will appreciate the respectful homage. 

After boasting two critically acclaimed films in 2024, Dune: Part Two and A Complete Unknown, Timothée Chalamet is next set to lead the highly anticipated A24 movie, Marty Supreme (2025). The sports comedy follows Marty Mauser (Chalamet) as he pursues his dream of becoming a table tennis champion.

If you’re interested in catching up with Chalamet before Marty Supreme, you can use our guide to find his 10 best movies, available on platforms like Disney+, HBO Max, and more.

10. Beautiful Boy (2018)

Beautiful Boy is a biographical drama that explores Nic (Chalamet) and David Sheff’s (Steve Carell) relationship through Nic’s struggles with substance abuse. It is a highly emotional tale that dives deep not only into the difficulties of substance abuse struggles but also into how it impacts a family. The film will undoubtedly make viewers feel seen who can relate to the subject matter, which isn’t often explored in-depth.

Chalamet delivers a strong performance as Nic, effectively capturing his often heartbreaking sense of inner conflict and the emotional tension that unfolds in scenes with Carell. Sometimes, though, the movie feels a bit heavy-handed and melodramatic, which is what prevents it from ranking higher on this list. Still, for viewers interested in heavier films that poignantly tackle addiction, such as Krisha (2016) and Shame (2011), Beautiful Boy is an excellent choice.

9. Bones and All (2022)

Bones and All centers on Maren (Taylor Russell) and Lee (Chalamet), two young cannibals who develop feelings for each other and set off on a cross-country road trip to try to outrun their pasts. Like Beautiful Boy, Bones and All isn’t an easy film to consume. However, despite its sometimes graphic depiction of cannibalism, it manages to humanize its protagonists, exploring their pasts and the impact of generational trauma and abuse.

While Chalamet is compelling as Lee, Russell takes the spotlight with her complex and nuanced performance as Maren. Between Chalamet’s slightly subdued performance and the unpalatable subject matter, Bones and All isn’t for everyone, but there’s still a growing market for cannibalistic stories. If you love Raw (2016), Fresh (2022), and the idea of cannibalism as a metaphor, Bones and All is for you.

8. The French Dispatch (2021)

The French Dispatch is an anthology film directed by Wes Anderson. It cycles through several different stories that make up the final edition of The French Dispatch magazine in the 1970s. Chalamet stars as Zeffirelli, a student revolutionary who starts a romance with French Dispatch reporter Lucinda Krementz (Frances McDormand) as she covers the outbreak of student protests. The film showcases Anderson’s characteristic eccentricity and ambiguity, offering an intriguing array of vignettes that pay tribute to the craft of journalism.

Chalamet shines as Zeffirelli, delivering an oddball performance that perfectly complements The French Dispatch’s aesthetic. The movie is stylish, weird, and bursting with Anderson’s vision. Anderson’s films can be divisive due to their ambiguity, but The French Dispatch is likely to appeal to his strongest fans, who seek his most unrestrained and creative works.

7. Lady Bird (2017)

Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird is a coming-of-age tale that follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), who is desperate to flee California for a prestigious college in New York and clashes with her mother over her dreams. Chalamet appears in the film as Kyle and plays the role of a stereotypical “bad boy” boyfriend to perfection. Lady Bird is an excellent film that poignantly captures the coming-of-age experience, as well as the complicated relationship between mothers and daughters.

The movie is blunt, funny, and surprisingly touching, filled with highly realistic and compelling performances. Few films allow one to relate to and care about the characters so thoroughly. Lady Bird is a must-see for fans of Gerwig and her other notable works, such as Little Women (2019) and Barbie (2023). Chalamet fans, though, may be a bit disappointed by his more minor role and the fact that his archetypal bad boy character doesn’t give him as much room to shine.

6. Little Women (2019)

Little Women is Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic of the same name. Moving back and forth in the timeline, it tells the story of the March sisters’ childhood and their adulthoods after the Civil War. Chalamet appears in the film as Theodore “Laurie” Laurence, the love interest of Amy March (Florence Pugh). Little Women is an excellent adaptation of Alcott’s work, paying homage to the original while updating it with the sensitivity and delicacy to appeal to modern audiences.

Similar to Lady Bird, Little Women serves as a heartwarming celebration of girlhood and womanhood, capturing the female experience with compassion, depth, and candor. Fans of Frances Ha (2013), Barbie, Lady Bird, and Alcott’s original book will love Little Women. While the film marks Chalamet’s best supporting role, his performance doesn’t eclipse his more recognizable and iconic leading roles.

5. Dune (2021)

Dune is the first part of Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s epic space opera novel of the same name. The film centers on Paul Atreides (Chalamet), whose destiny leads him down a dark and chaotic path as his family is thrust into war, with powerful forces vying for control of Arrakis. Dune beautifully adapts Herbert’s sprawling work, creating a film with a scope and visuals that are truly breathtaking.

Chalamet proves adept as Paul, capturing the spirit of the gifted young man carrying the burden of a great destiny on his shoulders. The film as a whole is a worthy interpretation of Herbert’s novel and will dazzle fans of sci-fi and space operas. Given it’s only the first half of the story, it doesn’t obtain the heights of Dune: Part Two, but it leaves fans excited for more.

4. Wonka (2023)

Wonka is a prequel to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) and centers on a young Willy Wonka (Chalamet) as he chases his dreams of becoming a chocolatier. The movie proves to be the perfect addition to the Willy Wonka franchise, embracing the whimsy and magic of the original while offering a sweeter and more enjoyable twist on the classic story. Chalamet’s eccentric performance and stunning vocals add to the appeal of Wonka.

Viewers who loved Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory but are seeking a more modernized and family-friendly spin on the source material will especially appreciate Wonka. Fans of Chalamet will love seeing a lighter, more whimsical side to the actor. Overall, Wonka is a true delight, offering catchy tunes and charm on par with other top-notch musicals, such as Wicked (2024) and Matilda the Musical (2022).

3. A Complete Unknown (2024)

A Complete Unknown is a musical biopic that chronicles Bob Dylan’s (Chalamet) career from his beginnings as an unknown talent in New York through his controversial decision to go electric. Chalamet delivers a near-career-best performance as Dylan and impresses fans with his vocals, as he sings and performs over 40 of Dylan's songs for the film. He and the film capture the spirit of Dylan while still maintaining some of the music legend’s elusiveness.

A Complete Unknown is highly reminiscent of Walk the Line (2005), with which it shares a director. Both movies tackle music legends and are bolstered by strong performances, music, and cinematography. However, both also struggle to say anything particularly profound or revelatory about their subject matter. If you love musical biopics and want more of Chalamet’s vocals but with less of the fantastical elements of Wonka, A Complete Unknown is a well-crafted, straightforward biopic for you.

2. Dune: Part Two (2024)

Dune: Part Two picks up where Dune left off, and sees Atreides rally the Fremen to go to war against House Harkonnen. It has all the merits of the first movie, but is even bigger and better. Given that it doesn’t need the build-up elements of Dune, Dune: Part Two hits the ground running and never lets up the action and pace. The worldbuilding, visuals, passionate performances, and attention to detail draw viewers in for a truly exhilarating experience.

Chalamet once again delivers as Atreides, beautifully capturing the weight of Paul’s responsibilities and noble quest. Ultimately, if you loved Dune and want to experience a riveting, large-scale sci-fi epic with incredible special effects and a compelling narrative, Dune: Part Two is a must-see.

1. Call Me By Your Name (2017)

Call Me By Your Name is a coming-of-age romance drama from director Luca Guadagnino. It follows 17-year-old Elio (Chalamet) as he develops feelings for his father’s graduate-student assistant, Oliver (Armie Hammer). The film marks Chalamet’s best performance as he perfectly captures the agony and intensity of first love in his depiction of the intelligent but emotionally immature teenage Elio.

Call Me By Your Name as a whole is a profound and moving exploration of love. Doing away with cliches and grand gestures, it captures love through tension and subtlety, while also exploring the intensity of the fear of rejection. Moving, intimate, and sensual, it’s a love story for the ages. Call Me By Your Name is reminiscent of the originality and eccentricity of Bones and All and Lady Bird, but it goes far deeper into the romance genre, paralleling standout LGBTQ+ films like Moonlight (2016) and Boy Erased (2019). The film’s poignant love story and Chalamet’s convincing and compelling performance make Call Me By Your Name the best in Chalamet’s filmography. 

Robert Downey, Jr. is set to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Victor von Doom (aka Doctor Doom). Before he was Doctor Doom, he portrayed Iron Man in the MCU, a role that garnered him universal recognition. It’s possible his Iron Man character, or at least a variant of it, will figure into his transition into the role of Doctor Doom, meaning viewers may wish to catch up on Iron Man’s film history before Avengers: Doomsday (2026).

Check out our guide for a breakdown of every Iron Man movie, along with the recommended watching order when booting up Disney+.

Iron Man Trilogy

Tony Stark makes his MCU debut in Iron Man, where he’s forced to build an Iron Man suit to escape a hostage situation in Afghanistan. Iron Man 2 and Iron Man 3 continue to follow Stark’s adventures as the hero Iron Man, which grows increasingly complex as unsavory figures try to obtain his technology and he becomes more reliant on it. The Iron Man trilogy is a worthy adaptation of the comic book material, bolstered by Downey’s charm and the trilogy’s emotional depth. 

In addition to groundbreaking visuals and high suspense, the Iron Man movies offer viewers a flawed and relatable hero with character development that keeps them engaged. If you love the typical MCU origin films, like Black Panther (2018) and Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), you’ll love the first two Iron Man movies. Iron Man 3’s comeback story and deep dive into the emotional impact of Stark’s heroism parallels the depth and darker tone of films like The Dark Knight Rises (2012) and Logan (2017), and it will be appreciated by fans of more mature superhero movies.

• Iron Man (2008)
• Iron Man 2 (2010)
• Iron Man 3 (2013)

The Avengers Series

In addition to the Iron Man trilogy, Stark is a consistent and vital fixture in the MCU’s Avengers series. He’s one of the original heroes recruited by Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) in The Avengers to fight Loki’s (Tom Hiddleston) invasion of New York. The team's missions grow more dangerous when Thanos (Josh Brolin) starts collecting the Infinity Stones and leaves The Avengers grappling with how to save humanity in Avengers: Endgame. 

The Avengers is one of the first-ever large-scale superhero crossover films, bringing together heroes from Iron Man, Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), and Thor (2011). All of The Avengers films boast an epic scale and the appeal of the sheer spectacle. Each film raises the stakes, scale, and visuals, keeping them consistently engaging and brimming with improvements. Fans of other movies that feature epic superhero team-ups, like X-Men (2000) or Thunderbolts* (2025), will love The Avengers movies. However, the larger casts and team premise mean viewers don’t get as personal stories as the Iron Man movies.

• The Avengers (2012)
• Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
• Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
• Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Other Iron Man MCU Appearances

Stark appears in several MCU projects in addition to the Iron Man and Avengers movies. Besides an uncredited cameo in The Incredible Hulk, Stark appears in Captain America: Civil War, where his feud with Captain America (Chris Evans) tears The Avengers apart. He also stars in Spider-Man: Homecoming as Peter Parker’s (Tom Holland) mentor. 

The Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man: Homecoming are excellent superhero origin movies, though Spider-Man: Homecoming boasts more comedy and heartfelt moments due to its young protagonist. Meanwhile, Captain America: Civil War is quite distinct in the MCU with its slightly darker tone and hero vs. hero premise. It parallels projects like AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004) and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) due to setting two iconic characters against each other, though it executes its crossover with more sophistication and uses it to delve into topics of revenge, morality, and the dark side of heroes. Fans of the Iron Man movies will likely enjoy Captain America: Civil War, whereas fans of Hulk and Spider-Man who enjoyed The Avengers movies are more likely to prefer The Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man: Homecoming.

• The Incredible Hulk (2008)
• Captain America: Civil War (2016)
• Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Animated Iron Man Movies

In addition to the MCU, Iron Man appears in different timelines in several animated movies. He’s a significant part of Marvel Entertainment’s Ultimates adaptations, Ultimate Avengers: The Movie and Ultimate Avengers 2, the Heroes United films, Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United and Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United, as well as the Japanese adaptation, Iron Man: Rise of Technovore. Most of the animated projects featuring Iron Man boast more lighthearted tones than the live-action adaptations. 

The Heroes United movies, in particular, really probe how fun superhero team-ups can be, capturing the chemistry between Iron Man and his fellow heroes and offering great adventures. Movies like Iron Man: Rise of Technovore are great for fans of superhero anime adaptations, like Marvel Future Avengers (2017). If you love the DCAU, Marvel Saturday morning cartoons, and the earlier MCU Avengers movies, you’ll enjoy the animated Iron Man projects. 

• Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (2006)
• Ultimate Avengers 2 (2006)
• The Invincible Iron Man (2007)
• Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008)
• Iron Man: Rise of Technovore (2013)
• Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United (2013)
• Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United (2014) 

How To Watch The Live-Action 'Iron Man' Movies In Order

The best way to watch the Iron Man movies is to start with the MCU timeline before moving on to the animated Iron Man movies. See below for the MCU Iron Man films in release date order:

• Iron Man
• The Incredible Hulk
• Iron Man 2
• The Avengers
• Iron Man 3
• Avengers: Age of Ultron
• Captain America: Civil War
• Spider-Man: Homecoming
• Avengers: Infinity War
• Avengers: Endgame

If you want to watch the movies chronologically, it is the same as the order of release date. The only difference is that you would watch Iron Man 2 before The Incredible Hulk. 

How To Watch The Animated 'Iron Man' Movies In Order

• Ultimate Avengers: The Movie
• Ultimate Avengers 2
• The Invincible Iron Man
• Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow
• Iron Man: Rise of Technovore
• Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United
• Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United

James Bond has enthralled global audiences since his cinematic debut in 1962's Dr. No. Based on the character created by Ian Fleming, the legendary British intelligence agent has appeared in 27 movies with seven actors portraying him from the 1960s to present day. At the time of writing, it is the fifth-highest-grossing movie franchise of all time, earning over $7.8 billion at the worldwide box office.

Famous for its chic cast, stunning locations, and thrilling action sequences, the Bond series is a seminal inclusion in film history. This guide will show you how to watch all the James Bond movies in order via popular streamers like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, and more! Eon Productions serves as the official producer of the James Bond film series, however, not all Bond films are made by Eon. Titles like 1967's Casino Royale and 1983's Never Say Never Again are considered non-canonical entries that we have also included in this guide. 

James Bond has been played by Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig. We've compiled a full list of Bond films in order of release, along with which actor portrayed the character in each one. Some performers took on the role only once (Lazenby), while others, like Connery, returned after leaving. Due to the nature of the character, there isn't a particular chronological order to follow, so we have arranged them by their original release year. 

Sean Connery (1962-1967)

Sean Connery originally starred as James Bond in five movies from 1962 to 1967. His initial portrayal was in 1962's Dr. No, in which Bond investigates the disappearance of a fellow agent in Jamaica and confronts the mysterious Dr. No (Joseph Wiseman). This entry is a fantastic introduction to the franchise that successfully establishes the iconic character and formula.

• Dr. No (1962)

• From Russia With Love (1963)

• Goldfinger (1964)

• Thunderball (1965)

• You Only Live Twice (1967)

Over the next three years, Connery solidified his status as 007 with From Russia With Love (1963), which follows Bond on a mission to retrieve a Soviet encryption device, Goldfinger (1964), which follows Bond as he stops a wealthy gold magnate from irradiating the U.S. gold reserve at Fort Knox, and Thunderball (1965), which pits him against SPECTRE agents who have hijacked two NATO atomic bombs. Goldfinger was the first Bond film to win an Academy Award (Best Sound Editing), and it features one of the best Bond songs sung by Shirley Bassey.

The actor concluded his initial run as Bond in 1967 with You Only Live Twice, from a screenplay written by the one and only Roald Dahl. (Yes, the man responsible for penning Charlie and the Chocolate Factory wrote a Bond flick!) This adventure sends Bond to Japan to investigate the hijacking of American and Soviet spacecraft.

Sean Connery's portrayal represents the quintessential, hyper-masculine version of James Bond that audiences traditionally associate with the character. While it is certainly an outdated representation by modern standards, these original films remain a must-watch for any fan to see how the universal phenomenon began.

David Niven (1967)

David Niven appeared as James Bond in only one film - 1967's Casino Royale. Unlike the straightforward spy adventures of the official series, this film functions primarily as a spy parody. The story follows multiple agents who are assigned the code name "007" to confuse the evil counter-intelligence agency, SMERSH.

Despite its messy plot, Casino Royale is a worthwhile watch for its ensemble cast, featuring appearances by names that will make you say, "Wait… They are in this movie?!" The list includes stars like Peter Sellers, Orson Welles, and John Huston. The film also boasts the stellar Burt Bacharach song "The Look of Love," which was nominated for both an Academy Award and a Grammy.

George Lazenby (1969)

Despite being one of the most beloved actors to play James Bond, George Lazenby had zero professional acting experience before landing the lead in On Her Majesty's Secret Service. In his cinematic debut as the suave spy, Bond tracks his nemesis Ernst Stavro Blofeld (Telly Savalas) to a Swiss alpine retreat, where he falls in love with a troubled Contessa (Diana Rigg) while foiling a global biological warfare plot.

The film went on to become one of the highest-grossing films of that year. Diana Rigg's brilliantly poignant portrayal of Teresa di Vicenzo remains a standout performance from any of the Bond installments, crafting a compelling yet tragic chemistry with Lazenby. This film also marks the return of the iconic bald villain Blofeld, last seen in You Only Live Twice and parodied dozens of times since.

Sean Connery (1971)

Connery returned to the role after four years, reuniting with Goldfinger director Guy Hamilton in 1971's Diamonds Are Forever. This entry follows Bond as he attempts to stop Blofeld's plot to develop a laser beam from space. Connery was given a then-record $1.25 million salary to portray the character following Lazenby's exit. 

Diamonds Are Forever was a massive box office hit, earning over a whopping $116 million worldwide on a $7 million budget. It went on to earn an Academy Award nomination for Best Sound and featured another Goldfinger reunion as Shirley Bassey returned to sing the titular theme.

Roger Moore (1973-1983)

Roger Moore began his tenure as James Bond in 1973, a role he would hold longer than any other actor until Daniel Craig surpassed his record in 2021. His six-streak of Bond flicks started with the Hamilton-directed Live and Let Die in 1973 and concluded with 1983's Octopussy. Following a one-movie break, which saw Connery's return in 1983's Never Say Never Again (the same year as Octopussy), Moore came back to the role two years later for A View to a Kill.

• Live and Let Die (1973)

• The Man With the Golden Gun (1974)

• The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)

• Moonraker (1979)

• For Your Eyes Only (1981)

• Octopussy (1983)

In the Moore era, Bond became known for his humorous quips, not traditionally seen in previous entries, along with the incorporation of different genres throughout his run, including sci-fi with Moonraker, martial arts in The Man With the Golden Gun, and Blaxploitation with Live and Let Die. It is no surprise that many fans name Moore as their favorite Bond, thanks in part to the unique charisma and wit he brought throughout his 12-year run.

Sean Connery (1983)

In the immortal words of Michael Corleone in the beloved third part of The Godfather (1990), "Just when I thought I was out… They pull me back in!" And I can only imagine this is what Sean Connery responded with when production company Taliafilm (probably) parked a dump truck full of money at his front lawn and asked if he would return to the role for one last ride.

For his final portrayal of Bond in the unofficial 1983 entry Never Say Never Again, the now-weary super spy is tasked with investigating SPECTRE's theft of two nuclear weapons. Although this is not an official Eon Productions entry, this installment remains a fantastic conclusion for Connery's seminal arc as the character.

Roger Moore (1985)

The final entry in Roger Moore's beloved stint as the suave spy is in 1985's A View to a Kill. Directed by frequent Bond helmer, John Glen, the story follows Bond as he squares up against Maximillian Zorin, played brilliantly by Christopher Walken. Moore's advanced age is certainly noticeable in this installment, and some would have preferred having an actor who wasn't older than his costar's mother to execute the film's wild stunts and romantic interludes.

Regardless of the varying disapproving responses to this entry, one thing remains certain - Grace Jones' appearance as May Day. Jones and Moore worked brilliantly against each other, and their final moments together form a touching conclusion for the character that continues to endure today.

Timothy Dalton (1987-1989)

Despite only appearing in two installments, Timothy Dalton left a lasting mark on the James Bond franchise and is still considered one of the best for his grittier depiction of the character. He starred in back-to-back entries directed by John Glen.

• The Living Daylights (1987)

• Licence to Kill (1989)

Dalton's time as Bond ushered in a darker version of the character that was closer to the more serious tone of Ian Fleming's original books. This version highlighted 007's inner demons and cool professionalism, which was a refreshing change from the more playful past versions of Bond. This down-to-earth intensity is why I prefer something like Licence to Kill over many of Roger Moore's entries. Clearly, this strategy of crafting a more rugged Bond worked, as both of his movies were major financial wins, with each earning over $100 million worldwide, respectively.

Pierce Brosnan (1995-2002)

As a millennial, Pierce Brosnan's seven-year stint as James Bond remains the one I hold closest to my heart. Brosnan's Bond films are known for their over-the-top action sequences featuring love interests with unique names like Dr. Christmas Jones and Jinx Johnson.

• GoldenEye (1995)

• Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)

• The World Is Not Enough (1999)

• Die Another Day (2002)

For my fellow millennials, his legacy is also cemented in gaming history. So it's not an exaggeration to say I would spend hours of my life playing the iconic GoldenEye 007 on the N64 and the highly entertaining Nightfire on my GameCube. As Bond, Brosnan served up the perfect cocktail of suave charisma mixed with witty sophistication and a little sprinkle of danger that makes his films an endlessly exciting watch.

Daniel Craig (2006-2021)

The latest actor to call himself Bond is the blonde-haired, blue-eyed Daniel Craig, who currently holds the record for the longest tenure as the iconic spy. His five-movie stint includes the highest-grossing Bond film of all time - 2012's Skyfall.

• Casino Royale (2006)

• Quantum of Solace (2008)

• Skyfall (2012)

• Spectre (2015)

• No Time to Die (2021)

When Craig's casting was initially announced, vocal members of the internet decried the casting. That is, until Casino Royale was released in 2006, and audiences were introduced to this physically imposing super spy with a heart-wrenching emotional core. The torture scene featuring Le Chiffre (played flawlessly by Mads Mikkelsen), armed with a durable rope and tattered chair, remains one of the most intense sequences in any Bond film ever.

Bond and Vesper (with Eva Green turning in a perfect performance), embracing while fully clothed in the shower, will never fail to make me an emotional mess. The next installments featured some of the best actors in Hollywood, including Jeffrey Wright, Javier Bardem, Léa Seydoux, Ralph Fiennes, and Christoph Waltz. During his tenure as 007, Craig ultimately brought a brawly yet vulnerable edge to the iconic super spy we've known for over six decades.

Nosferatu, also known as Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, hit theaters in 1922. The movie wasn’t just black and white; it was also silent since it was released in the era before films had sound. Nosferatu has an original story, but it was heavily inspired by Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula. The similarities are so blatant and noticeable that numerous times throughout its history, Nosferatu has even been accused of plagiarism.

But regardless of how the story came to be, it’s proven one of the most lasting narratives in Hollywood history, releasing a series of films throughout the years. Check out our guide below to learn more about every Nosferatu movie series, in order, and where they’re available on platforms like Tubi, Shudder, and more. 

Nosferatu (1922)

In Nosferatu, a man named Thomas Hutter is sent out to a new client to get papers signed. The client is the mysterious Count Orlok, and he intends to buy property directly across from Hutter’s residence. But as bodies pile up and Hutter experiences strange phenomena, he sets out to prove that the Count is actually a vampire.

Because of the original’s age, it’s best for viewers who can appreciate historic cinema. Fans of other atmospheric ‘20s movies like The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) should check it out, as should anyone who finds a deep creepiness in old silent movies (like I do). 

Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979)

In 1979, director Werner Herzog made a unique film called Nosferatu the Vampyre. The movie combined the plots of Nosferatu and Dracula (because, why not?), renaming Count Orlok to Count Dracula and adding in characters like Van Helsing. But its plot stayed much truer to Nosferatu than Dracula, creating a unique blend of the two.

It’s a must-watch for horror fans since it combines story elements from the two biggest names in vampirism, creating a film that, because of IP laws and franchising, probably couldn’t even be made today. Plus, all under the steady hand of Herzog, the movie is a masterclass in slow-burn horror. This version of Nosferatu is perfect for anyone who wants a great, stylized retelling of the story, similar to Francis Ford Coppola's 1992 version of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. 

Nosferatu in Venice (1988)

In 1988, Nosferatu received a loose sequel with the Italian film Nosferatu in Venice. Set in the Nosferatu universe, but with its own story, the movie shows that Nosferatu has traveled to Venice because he wants to end the torment of immortality and finally die. But along the way, he kills numerous people, and the film ends on a cliffhanger. It also stars some surprisingly big names like Christopher Plummer and Donald Pleasence.

Nosferatu in Venice leans heavily into drama (and often melodrama), feeling more like a wildly fun, mawkish take on Nosferatu, rather than a horror film. It’s kind of like Nosferatu got to star in his own daytime soap opera. But with the haunting beauty of Venice, Nosferatu in Venice is a sure bet for anyone who loves other movies filmed in the Floating City, like A Haunting in Venice (2023), and other gothic slow burns like Crimson Peak (2015).

Shadow of the Vampire (2000)

The Oscar-nominated Shadow of the Vampire is a meta film that portrays the filming of the original 1922 Nosferatu. The movie’s lead actor, Max Schreck (played by Willem Dafoe), starts acting very strangely when he’s in character as Nosferatu. Soon, the cast and crew begin wondering if he might actually be a real vampire… and then the kills begin.

If you love meta horror movies, especially ones that center around filmmaking itself, like New Nightmare (1994) or Scream 3 (2000), you’re going to love Shadow of the Vampire. Its smart concept and great performances make it one of those rare movies that’s able to be super gripping and serious, while also delivering some high-brow, meta humor. It’s not a spoof or parody, it’s a loving nod to one of cinema’s first true horror films. 

NOS4A2 (2019-2020)

The AMC series NOS4A2 put a modern twist on the story, creating more of a serial killer-type plot about a man who feeds on the souls of young children. Honestly, it isn’t connected to Nosferatu at all other than the name, and even its interpretation of vampirism is vastly different from the norm. But if you love stylized horror series like Hannibal (2013) or Evil (2019), you’ll love NOS4A2. 

While the story of the show isn't really connected to Nosferatu, it is centered around a story anchored in Nosferatu-style vampirism. Plus, as you can see from the list, most other Nosferatu entries are on the older side. So for viewers who appreciate modern cinematography and sound quality, NOS4A2 is a great way to enter the vampire genre. 

Nosferatu: The Real Story (2024)

Despite what Shadow of the Vampire will tell you, the actor playing Nosferatu wasn’t actually a vampire… but that doesn’t mean the movie’s production and aftermath weren’t wild. Nosferatu is actually an incredibly notorious film, in large part because it heavily stole ideas from Dracula without giving any kind of credit, leading to numerous lawsuits and bans. 

From how the story came to be to its tumultuous journey throughout the years, Nosferatu: The Real Story tells it all. It’s a great movie for horror fans who also love documentaries, and trust me, the story behind all of Nosferatu’s controversies are wild. In fact, for a period, people actually thought the movie was completely lost after a German court ordered that every copy of the film be destroyed. If you’re fascinated by documentaries that explore troubled productions, like Cursed Films (2020), this is the movie for you.

Nosferatu (2024)

Nosferatu (2024) is a faithful retelling of the original movie, with Bill Skarsgård taking on the role of Count Orlok. Directed by auteur Robert Eggers, the film is heavily stylized and loaded with gothic vibes. It’s a true visual spectacle, perfect not just for horror fans, but for anyone who loves a gorgeously haunting movie. 

If you love visually stunning gothic horror movies like The Lighthouse (2019) or stylized masterpieces like Suspiria (2018), you absolutely need to check out Eggers’ take on Nosferatu. 

Every long-running show or movie franchise eventually faces a choice—evolve or exaggerate. And sometimes, in that attempt to keep audiences hooked, creators fly just a little too close to the sun or, in one famous case, leap over a shark. The phrase "jump the shark" was born in 1977 on Happy Days, when Fonzie (leather jacket and all) literally jumped over a shark on water skis.

It was the moment fans realized the series had traded its soul for hype. Since then, the expression has become shorthand for when the magic of a franchise fades and desperation takes its place. For some, it's a single misguided episode. For others, it's a tonal shift that never goes away. And the entries on this list, which can be found on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max, are definitely guilty of jumping the shark.

'Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers'  Went Too Supernatural

Halloween (1978) was the ultimate lesson in simplicity. A silent killer stalked and taunted a terrified babysitter with a haunting score to match. It was a perfect pick for horror purists who value atmosphere over gore. Then came Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995). The film introduced the "Thorn Cult," turning the once-mysterious Michael Myers into the product of a supernatural prophecy.

The boogeyman no longer haunted us just because he could. Instead, he had lore, symbols, and a backstory. And that, many argue, is where the franchise jumped the shark. The original works because it's primal. Once you start explaining the monster, the fear dims, and the mystery is essentially over. Still, horror fans who love chasing a genre's roots will enjoy it.

'Child's Play 3' Leaned Into Comedy, Not Scares 

The original Child's Play (1988) was delightfully terrifying, with a possessed doll named Chucky targeting a little boy and his mom while on the hunt for a human body to inhabit. It balanced suspense with twisted humor, appealing to horror fans who liked their scares with personality. But by Child's Play 3 (1991), the scares were traded for sarcasm.

Chucky moved to a military school, and the franchise began winking at itself. Later sequels leaned fully into parody, culminating in Bride of Chucky (1998) and Seed of Chucky (2004). Once the killer doll started mugging for the camera, the genuine menace was gone. However, the franchise forged through its ridiculousness and recovered some of its initial magic with Curse of Chucky in 2013.

'The Simpsons' Lost Its Edge In Season 9

There's no denying The Simpsons (1989) is one of television's greatest achievements. For its first eight seasons, the animated sitcom nailed a rare balance between razor-sharp satire and heartfelt family storytelling. It spoke to anyone who loved clever comedy that didn't talk down to its audience. But many fans agree that the Season 9 episode, "The Principal and the Pauper" (1997) was a turning point.

The revelation that Principal Skinner was actually an impostor named Armin Tamzarian felt like a betrayal of the characters and history fans had come to love. From there, the show became more self-referential. The writing leaned too heavily on celebrity cameos and high-concept plots. It's still entertaining, especially for longtime fans, but the bite has been dulled.

'The X-Files' Got Lost In Its Mythology 

Few shows captured alien paranoia quite like The X-Files (1993). Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully's investigations into government conspiracies and the paranormal gave us one of television's most addictive formulas. The show is still a great pick for viewers who love creepy thrills with an undercurrent of skepticism. But by Season 9, the chemistry that made the show iconic began to fade.

Episode 15, ironically titled "Jump the Shark" (2002), sealed the fate of fan-favorite side characters, The Lone Gunmen. Although the decision was later retconned for the comic book series, it underlined what had gone wrong with the show. The X-Files that once thrived on mystery had become tangled in its own mythology and was left spinning in confused circles.

'Furious 7' Became A Caricature Of The Franchise 

When The Fast and the Furious (2001) was originally all about underground street racing and loyalty. It spoke to underdogs and blue-collar thrill-seekers chasing freedom one quarter-mile at a time. But over the years, the series evolved from nitrous and neon to espionage and impossible physics. By Furious 7 (2015), the family wasn't just stealing cars, they were defying gravity.

When cars launched into space in F9 (2021), even the most devoted fans chuckled. The popular Vin Diesel-led franchise became a caricature of itself, but an incredibly fun one. Viewers just have to remember to check their logic at the door before hitting the play button on the remote. Still, people who love over-the-top action and found family stories will get a kick out of it.

'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Pushed Fans Far, Far Away

When Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) hit screens everyone was ready for another epic adventure in the iconic faraway galaxy. But as the sequel trilogy progressed, nostalgia started to outweigh narrative. Many argue the shark-jump point arrives either in the middle of the sequels or with the mishandling of original characters like Luke, Leia, and Han.

While The Force Awakens might work as a love letter to the original trilogy, the sequels lost their compass while searching for hyperdrive. With several new projects in the works, created to expand the galaxy, it's a good reminder of how fine the line is between homage and imitation. The sequel trilogy, in particular, is best suited for Star Wars devotees who can forgive a few hyperspace missteps.