Very few franchises have had as much staying power as Charlie’s Angels, conceived as a female empowerment show but still very much made for the male gaze. Subsequent versions have made it less about how men perceive the women and more about them, which proves that this is the type of idea that has enough staying power that its different versions reflect the times we live in.

But what if you wanted to watch them all? What order should you watch the movies and TV shows in for better enjoyment? Since this is a pretty timeless, popular franchise, here we bring you all you need to know to enjoy Charlie's Angels in the correct order on platforms like Tubi, Prime Video, and more. 

Charlie’s Angels (1976-1981)

The show that started it all is the only place to start, really. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Farrah Fawcett, Kate Jackson, and Jaclyn Smith were the original Angels, following an invisible boss who we—and they—only know and recognize by his voice. The show premiered at a time where action sequences and a group of smart women figuring things out wasn’t the norm, and it quickly made how competent they were the standard. Even if the male gaze of it all was ever-present, in how good they looked at every second.

Charlie’s Angels lasted five seasons, with big cast changes almost every season. But that first season remains what every remake has been trying to recapture in not just vibes, but chemistry. It’s worth the watch as a whole. However, if you can only watch one season, make it the first one. If you take it at face value and ignore the undertones, it’s actually a pretty feminist show.

Charlie’s Angels (2000)

It took over two decades for the first Charlie’s Angels movie, and though it once again brought three different actresses to work for an invisible boss, Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu are not just new versions of the show’s characters. Instead, this version is much more action meets comedy with big fight choreography and stylish special effects than the series. It is also way less male-gazey. This time the Angels are the stars, and they know it.

The movie’s success proved that the original formula could be adapted, with the right cast and the right chemistry. It also proved that stories about women could be told from a women’s perspective and still be successful, imagine that! Charlie’s Angels (2000) also set the standard for an even goofier sequel that wasn’t nearly as popular as the first movie in the series.

Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003)

Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle did what all sequels do, bringing more of the things that worked before: more action, more budget, and more goofiness. This time, despite the proven chemistry and the silly, almost larger-than-life fight sequences, the movie wasn’t as well received at the box office. Perhaps it was the absence of Bill Murray as the in-between between the Angels and the invisible Charlie, substituted here for Bernie Mac. But for whatever reason, the higher budget and lack of commercial success left the franchise in limbo for years after the movie was released.

There is, however, no arguing. The movie is still very fun and the cast chemistry is still very much apparent. If you look at it with fresh eyes now, you’ll find that this is still a fun movie, even if not a groundbreaking one.

Charlie’s Angels (2011)

If you’ve forgotten this ABC series even existed, I won’t blame you. Charlie’s Angels (2011), which was meant to reboot the original show, only lasted four episodes before the network cancelled it, and of the eight recorded episodes, only seven ever aired. That’s about as bad as a TV can do in this day and age. But if you want to be a completionist, you can check out this more serious and grounded version of the franchise, starring Annie Ilonzeh as Kate Prince, Minka Kelly as Eve French, Rachael Taylor as Abby Sampson, Ramon Rodriguez as John Bosley, and the voice of Victor Garber as Charlie.

Perhaps it was too soon for another remake, or the vibe was too serious for audiences at the time, because the cast was certainly not the problem. These days, this show is only good to complete the trivia question, though. You can skip it no problem.

Charlie’s Angels (2019)

Hollywood wouldn’t even wait another decade before trying the formula once again, this time back on the big screen. The idea is modernized, with Elizabeth Banks directing and acting in a Charlie’s Angels (2019) that focuses on one team of Angels, with different teams working simultaneously all over the world. Meaning at one point, we will get another one. Mind my words. Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott, and Ella Balinska are the new team in a movie that has a feminist, self-aware tone, but that doesn’t forget about the fun.

Audiences, sadly, didn’t respond well to a movie that was a great attempt at widening the scope of the franchise without losing its essence. But that doesn’t make it any less worth the watch. In fact, this might just be the best attempt at this franchise since the first season of the original series. I said what I said. 

Jurassic World Rebirth recently premiered, returning to the franchise’s horror roots. Although not often considered proper horror films, the original Jurassic Park series incorporated horror elements, including terrifying dinosaurs and jump scare scenes. Now, the latest Jurassic World movie leans further into the horror by debuting numerous mutated dinosaurs.

Viewers interested in the dinosaurs that evoke the most horror and chills can use our guide to find the top 10 scariest dinosaurs based on appearance, behavior, and deadliness.

Tyrannosaurus rex

The one dinosaur consistently responsible for the grisliest deaths and biggest chills across all of the Jurassic Park films is the classic Tyrannosaurus rex. This dinosaur doesn’t need any modifications or mutations to make it terrifying. As one of the largest land carnivores of all time, standing around 13 feet tall and weighing several tons, the Tyrannosaurus rex is one of the last dinosaurs you would want to run into unarmed. From the Tyrannosaurus rex duo’s tug-of-war attack on Eddie Carr (Richard Schiff) to the Tyrannosaurus rex unleashing terror in San Diego in The Lost World: Jurassic Park, these dinosaurs are responsible for most of the biggest, grisliest scares in the franchise.

Dilophosaurus

The Dilophosaurus is one of the most notorious dinosaurs in the franchise, known for its iconic albeit terrifying attack in Jurassic Park. Nearly 23 feet in length, the Dilophosaurus is a reasonably large yet slender predator, which gives it the advantage of stealth and speed. Jurassic Park added a few extra touches to the dinosaur, including colorful frills framing its face. However, its pretty appearance is just a façade, as the dinosaur also hides the ability to eject poisonous venom at its prey, temporarily blinding and paralyzing them before attacking. The Dilophosaurus’ surprise ability, which it uses on Dennis Nedry (Wayne Knight), has terrified audiences for decades.

Spinosaurus

In Jurassic Park III, the Spinosaurus takes over from the Tyrannosaurus Rex as the main dinosaur antagonist, and it's a worthy successor. The Spinosaurus' appearance is terrifying, with its large, signature spines running down its back and its abnormally long jaw and tail. Its long jaw, filled with razor-sharp teeth, and hunched-over stature add a good deal of creepiness to the dinosaur. The Spinosaurus’ extremely high aggressiveness and relentlessness in pursuing Alan Grant (Sam Neill) make for countless jump scares and heart-pounding stalking and attack scenes in Jurassic Park III. It has both the appearance and deadliness to make it a true nightmare to behold.

Velociraptor

Like the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the Velociraptor has been a staple of the Jurassic Park franchise. However, with each movie, its intelligence has become more prominent, adding to the dinosaur’s terrifying nature. Velociraptors are some of the most intelligent dinosaurs, as evidenced by Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) successfully training some in Jurassic World. Its intelligence is scary, though, considering the dinosaur can use it for evil. In Jurassic Park III, the Velociraptor’s penchant for sadism shines through when a pack brutally kills Udesky (Michael Jeter) to lay a trap for the other survivors. It doesn’t get much more terrifying than a large, quick, deadly dinosaur that’s intelligent enough to torture its prey.

Indominus rex

The Tyrannosaurus rex and Velociraptor are already among the scariest dinosaurs in Jurassic Park, but what if someone combined them? That’s precisely what happens in Jurassic World when the Indominus rex is artificially created by mixing a Tyrannosaurus rex’s DNA with several other dinosaurs and animals, including the Velociraptor. Essentially, it boasts the size and deadliness of a Tyrannosaurus rex, but with a longer jaw, longer arms, spines on its back, and heightened intelligence. Some viper DNA also gives it the ability to unhinge its jaw to a 90-degree angle, and it can camouflage itself, leading to several excellent jump scares. There’s not a single aspect of the Indominus rex that isn’t terrifying.

Scorpios rex

The Scorpios rex is another hybrid dinosaur, produced from the combined DNA of a Tyrannosaurus rex, Carnotaurus, and Velociraptor. It is the main antagonist in Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous Season 3, having silently stalked the characters for two seasons straight. With beady red eyes, grayish skin, a prominent overbite, and spines on its elbows and back that it can shoot like porcupine quills, the Scorpios rex boasts an unsettling and grotesque appearance. Adding to its terror is its unpredictable behavioral patterns, as it can go from calm to aggressively rampaging in a split second. It’s a dinosaur that’s not just deadly but also frighteningly unhinged.

Indoraptor

If viewers thought the Velociraptors' intelligence was terrifying, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom tops it with the Indoraptor. It is a hybrid of the Indominus rex and Velociraptor, boasting raptor-like qualities and nearly all black coloring. Like the Scorpios rex, much of the Indoraptor’s terror comes from its behavioral traits. The Indoraptor is intelligent enough to trick and manipulate its victims and also boasts a sadistic streak, engaging in torture of its prey, such as eating its limbs before killing it. In Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, the Indoraptor’s surprises and tricks make for some very horror-esque moments for its unfortunate victims.

Giganotosaurus

The Giganotosaurus is the largest known land carnivore, standing up to 20 feet tall and weighing up to 10 tons. In Jurassic World Dominion, the Giganotosaurus stalks Owen and his gang, terrifying them with the sheer scale of its presence. Unlike some of the dinosaurs in the Jurassic Park franchise, the Giganotosaurus isn’t overly aggressive, but it will fight for its food and to establish its dominance. There are few scarier moments in the franchise than when the characters are hiding from the hungry Giganotosaurus as it shakes the earth with every step, blocks out the sun, and boasts jaws that are bigger than a human.

Mutadon

The Mutadon is one of the mutated dinosaurs in Jurassic World Rebirth, a hybrid of a Velociraptor and a Pteranodon. It’s essentially a Velociraptor with bird-like characteristics, including a beak-like jaw and wings, although it walks like a Velociraptor and possesses its intelligence. In Jurassic World Rebirth, the Mutadons are responsible for numerous jump scares, as their method of killing is to swoop from the sky, taking their prey by surprise and killing it with one strike before carrying it off to be eaten. Whether in the sky or on land, one is not safe from the Mutadon.

Distortus rex

In Jurassic World Rebirth, the Distortus rex is a mutated Tyrannosaurus rex with, arguably, the most terrifying appearance of any dinosaur in the franchise. With an oversized forehead, a barely discernible neck, and six limbs, including two oversized, gorilla-like arms, the Distortus rex looks more like a horror film monster than a dinosaur. It’s also extremely aggressive, attacking humans as soon as it becomes aware of them, though its poor eyesight means it usually has to feel for its prey before attacking. When this monstrous dinosaur suddenly emerges from the shadows, it’s one of the scariest scenes in the franchise. 

Where To Watch The Scariest Dinosaurs In 'Jurassic Park' Online

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Zombie movies have become one of the standard pillars for horror in the 21st century, with the last decade alone having plenty of films that highlight the versatility and frightening potential of the genre. Many zombie movies have built off the legacy of Night of the Living Dead, and in the early 21st century, movies like 28 Days Later and shows like The Walking Dead revitalized the concept for a new generation.

The best examples of zombie movies from the last decade represent a wide breadth of projects, ranging from painfully human dramas, absurdist dark comedies, and surprisingly beautiful ruminations on the meaning of life. The best zombie movies are able to tell human stories without forgetting why audiences have spent decades terrified of the undead. Here are the 10 best zombie movies of the last decade and where you can find them on apps like Hulu, Netflix, and more. 

10. Army Of the Dead (2021)

Army of the Dead is a good example of how the zombie movie has evolved in the 21st century, with one of the directors who defined the modern interpretation of the subgenre returning for a wild riff on the titular monsters. The undead are roaming the neon colored halls of Vegas casinos, serving as the major complication for a planned heist in the city.

Zack Snyder, who helped popularize the idea of fast zombies with his Dawn of the Dead remake in 2004, returns to the subgenre with bigger ambitions and a more developed cast. While it might not have the same mean and lean energy that made Dawn of the Dead such a shot in the arm, Army of the Dead’s commitment to the over-the-top action movie hybrid gives it an entertaining quality that many other more thematically dramatic or overtly silly zombie films have.

9. Zombieland: Double Tap (2019)

The sequel to 2010’s unexpected horror-comedy hit Zombieland, Zombieland: Double Tap revisits the survivors from the first film as their found family begins to go through some serious changes in their internal dynamic—all while still codifying the zombie apocalypse and dispatching the undead with a sardonic edge. Much as in the previous movie, the zombies are mostly used as a vehicle for splatter humor and character development, often in effective ways.

The new breeds of zombies increase the danger for the cast, but never so much that the comedic underlying elements of the film get overwhelmed. Even if the charm of the original hasn’t been quite replicated, Zombieland: Double Tap still boasts an impressive cast, adding Rosario Dawson, Luke Wilson, and Zoey Deutch to the chemistry of Jessie Eisenberg, Emma Stone, Woody Harrelson, and Abigail Breslin.

8. Unhuman (2022)

A Gen-Z zombie flick with as much to say about high school as it does the end of the world, Unhuman is a stylish high school horror movie that plays with conventions of the subgenre in some surprising ways. In this film, the zombies are teenagers transformed by a powerful drug that quickly spreads through a high school field trip, forcing a pair of best friends to try and scramble to stay ahead of their corrupted friends, as well as a dangerously realistic manipulator working behind the scenes.

At its best, Unhuman is a clever riff on high school tropes that feels like an authentic exploration of teenage angst and expectation—all wrapped up in a grisly package that boasts plenty of twists and turns by the time the credits roll.

7. Pet Sematary (2019)

The second film to directly adapt the Stephen King horror novel of the same name, 2019’s Pet Sematary plays with the undead in a far more cerebral way than most other zombie films. After one of his children dies in a tragic accident, Louis Creed uses a supernatural plot of land to revive them. However, his denial about the nature of his resurrected kid—now an undead and supernatural monster—serves as the primary focus of the film’s second half.

While the original movie wasn’t exactly a pleasant time for the characters, 2019’s remake is a compelling character study about the lengths grief can take someone, and the cost it can incur. The zombies in this film are different from almost any other. Cruel and malicious in their actions before slaughtering and corrupting you into a form like them, these zombies are some of the creepiest ones to hit the big screen in the last decade.

6. Little Monsters (2019)

What happens when you throw Dawn of the Dead in a blender with Little Miss Sunshine? Something like Little Monsters, a consistently hilarious and surprisingly charming take on the zombie genre. As with many films in the subgenre, the movie centers around a group of people caught in a tight location—only this time, it's a kindergarten teacher, a musician, a children's entertainer, and a bunch of children who are at risk.

The lighthearted character dramedy never takes away from the genuinely good scares and typical zombie twists, even while delivering a sweet romance story. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, Little Monsters plays with the zombie tropes in a creative and winning way that makes it one of the most charming recent entries in the subgenre.

5. Outside (2024)

A grim drama about the cycles of trauma that can fester within a family, Outside is a compelling zombie drama from the Philippines. The film focuses on Francis and his family as they flee a zombie apocalypse by returning to the farm that Francis grew up on.

A claustrophobic drama that is most intense when it moves away from the zombies, Outside uses the backdrop of an apocalypse as the set-up for a story about the lingering danger posed by a deep emotional hurt that's never healed, and how even a well-meaning man can let his paranoia and pain turn him into a monster far worse than the undead horde. Bolstered by heartbreaking performances, Outside is a reminder that the zombie tropes are a perfect backdrop for all kinds of stories.

4. Anna and the Apocalypse (2018)

On the opposite end of the tonal spectrum from Outside, Anna and the Apocalypse is a catchy musical and hilarious dark holiday comedy that feels like the love child of Glee and Shaun of the Dead. Set in a small Scottish town just around Christmas, Anna and the Apocalypse plays with teenage coming-of-age conventions to hilarious effect, with just as much weight given to the emotional revelations of unrequited feelings as to the danger posed by an undead horde.

The musical and Christmas touches add an absurd quality to the comedy, especially in standout scenes like the gleefully dark “Turning My Life Around” number as the zombie infection quickly spreads. A one-of-a-kind comedy that blends multiple genres together to create something truly unique, Anna and the Apocalypse is the best zombie comedy of the last decade.

3. Blood Quantum (2019)

A gritty take on the zombie genre, Blood Quantum’s social commentary gives the movie a thematic weight that few other entries in the subgenre have been able to match. Blood Quantum focuses on the residents of a First Nations Reserve in Canada. Discovering they are immune to the virus as a result of their genetic heritage, the Indigenous citizens find themselves wrestling with what to do within their borders, and how to handle the influx of white refugees who come to Red Crow Indian Reservation seeking shelter.

A powerful thriller that explores heavy themes, Blood Quantum never relents in terms of brutality or horror. It’s the human characters who prove to be the scariest, however, with an all-time great “humans are the true monster” performance by Kiowa Gordon. One of the last decade’s most underrated horror films, Blood Quantum is a terrific reminder that social satire doesn’t need to be funny to be gut-wrenching.

2. 28 Years Later (2025)

The long-awaited follow-up to the 28 Days Later franchise, 28 Years Later reunites the original film’s Danny Boyle and Alex Garland for an expansion on their Rage Virus-decimated world. Focusing on a young boy who embarks on two journeys to the dangerous mainland (first alongside his hunter father and then trying to guide his ill mother to help) where he must survive more than just the corrupted Infected.

Beautifully shot and quietly meandering in all the right ways, the film is a thoughtful rumination on life and death. A quieter movie than either of the two that preceded it, 28 Years Later is a shockingly somber movie that never loses sight of the human experience at the core of the story. There’s genuine beauty at play in 28 Years Later, marking it as arguably the most ambitious entry to the genre in years.

1. Train To Busan (2016)

A prime example of the zombie genre as a universal horror staple, the South Korean Train to Busan is a nearly perfect example of this style of horror movie. Train to Busan focuses on the passengers of a bullet train in South Korea who find themselves racing to escape a zombie outbreak. The movie is full of the stock characters audiences have come to expect from the genre but with enough depth and personality to feel authentic. The zombies themselves are a perfection of the “fast zombies” trope, an unyielding threat that comes to life in effectively frantic bursts.

Throughout, Train to Busan’s social commentary and character focus bring a moral weight to the proceedings, which is only elevated by some great characters (like Sang-Hwa, who is an all-time great zombie movie protagonist). Train to Busan isn’t just one of the best zombie movies of the last decade, it’s one of the best examples of the subgenre in cinematic history.

Where To Watch The Best Zombie Movies Of The Past Decade Online

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James Gunn’s Superman arrived on the big screen and brought with it a whole slate of exciting new characters not included in the old DC Extended Universe. It even included a few characters never seen in a live-action film before.

Viewers interested in learning about the new characters in Superman can use our guide to discover more about them and their other appearances in film and TV.

Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi)

Mister Terrific (Edi Cathegi) easily steals the show in Superman. He’s the smoothest, most incredible, and smartest superhero in the movie, with a laid-back personality and quiet moral convictions. In the comics, Mister Terrific (aka Michael Holt) is one of the most intelligent individuals in the DC universe, utilizing his engineering and scientific brilliance to even the playing field between himself and superpowered beings. It was especially awe-inspiring to see him on the big screen, considering Superman marks his live-action film debut. While an iteration of Mister Terrific, Curtis Holt (Echo Kellum), appeared in Arrow, his only other appearances have been animated, including in the Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths trilogy.

Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion)

Most viewers still infamously associate Green Lantern with Green Lantern (2011), the failed live-action film from 2011 starring Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan. However, Superman redeems one of the Green Lanterns, Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), who adds some much-needed comic relief to the film with his cocky, self-assured manner and comic book-accurate bowl cut. As a member of the Green Lantern Corps, he boasts a ring that gives him powers like energy projection and hard-light construct generation. Green Lantern’s inclusion in Superman is a nice warm-up for the DCU’s upcoming TV show, Lanterns, featuring the Green Lanterns Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre).

Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced)

Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced) is part of Superman’s Justice Gang, alongside Mister Terrific and Green Lantern. Her grumpiness and sarcasm add further comedic relief to the movie, while her power of flight and array of weapons make her a strong candidate for further development in the DCU. In the comics, she’s a reincarnated alien who retains knowledge from each of her lifetimes. Hawkgirl will return for Peacemaker's second season. Viewers can also find another live-action iteration of Hawkgirl (Ciara Renée) in the Arrowverse shows The Flash and Legends of Tomorrow.

Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan)

Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan) is one of the most unique new characters in Superman. He is a metahuman with the ability to transform his body into a wide variety of elemental compounds, including kryptonite. In the film, he’s held captive by Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), who controls him by threatening his son, Joey. Metamorpho adds emotional depth to Superman, as he grapples with concerns over his power and the conflict between doing what’s right and saving his son. The film marks his first live-action appearance. Previously, he appeared in the DCAU’s Justice League series and DCAMU’s Teen Titans Go! To the Movies.

The Engineer (María Gabriela de Faría)

In Superman, The Engineer (María Gabriela de Faría) is part of Luthor’s team and boasts nanotechnology powerful enough to contend with Superman (David Corenswet). As in the comics, she gained her abilities by replacing her blood with nanotechnology. She’s also a prominent member of the anti-hero team The Authority, which will reportedly get a self-titled film in the DCU’s future. The Engineer’s inclusion in Superman was quite epic, not only because of her fierce nature and incredible powers, but also because it marks the first on-screen appearance of a member of The Authority.

Ultraman (David Corenswet)

Superman features Ultraman (David Corenswet), another ally of Luthor. Masked and clad in black, viewers who aren’t familiar with the comics may have been surprised when Superman removed Ultraman’s mask and realized Ultraman was a clone of him. However, it makes sense because in DC Comics, Ultraman is an evil counterpart to Superman from an alternate universe. He’s supposed to be more of a variant of Superman, though the film makes him a clone. Ultraman has appeared in live-action before, as an iteration of the character appeared in Smallville as a variant of Superman adopted by the Luthor family.

Superman Robots (Alan Tudyk, Grace Chan, Michael Rooker, Pom Klementieff, and Jennifer Holland)

A host of robots appear in Superman, residing at the Fortress of Solitude to assist the hero. Viewers may have recognized several of the voices, as Alan Tudyk, Michael Rooker, Pom Klementieff, and Jennifer Holland have all collaborated with Gunn on past projects. The humanoid robots protect the Fortress and serve Superman, including helping him heal when he’s injured. They are similar to several robots that have appeared in the comics, including those in All-Star Superman. These specific robots in Superman haven’t appeared on-screen before, as they are a composite of various comic book robots.

Eve Teschmacher (Sara Sampaio)

Eve Teschamcher (Sara Sampaio) is Luthor’s girlfriend in Superman. Although she initially appears vain and clueless, her secret plan ultimately proves to be quite brilliant and vital in taking down Luthor. Teschmacher was created for the screen rather than comics, as she first appeared in Superman (1978) and its sequel, Superman II. Later, a very loose iteration of Teschmacher, Kitty Kowalski (Parker Posey), appeared in Superman Returns. As in Superman, Teschmacher is always depicted as an assistant/lover of Luthor, who grows disillusioned by his actions.

Krypto (Jolene)

Krypto also steals the show in Superman as the cutest, most mischievous character in the film. Krypto the Superdog appears in DC Comics as Superman’s pet, a superpowered dog who was the original test subject of the pods Superman’s parents would send him to Earth in. He eventually reunited with a teenage Superman on Earth and became his loyal companion. Krypto, who has behavioral issues in Superman, is mostly CGI, but a real-life dog named Jolene served as his stand-in. Krypto will return for Supergirl and has appeared in countless animated projects, including Scooby-Doo! and Krypto, Too! and DC League of Super-Pets.

Where To Watch The New 'Superman' Characters Online

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From the moment Pitch Black lit up screens in 2000, the Riddick franchise captured our imagination, pairing gritty sci‑fi with Vin Diesel's unforgettable antihero. Over the next decade, the series evolved spectacularly, moving from claustrophobic terror to epic space opera in The Chronicles of Riddick, then returning to raw, survivalist roots with Riddick.

Its loyal fanbase kept the fire burning, even through studio dips and creative reinventions. There's a steadfast devotion to this universe, and it's only grown stronger as Diesel and director David Twohy prepare to bring the franchise back to the big screen. But before that happens, here's how to watch all the Riddick movies in order on platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video.

Pitch Black (2000)

Weirdly tense and beautifully bleak, Pitch Black introduces Richard B. Riddick (Diesel), a notorious criminal with surgically altered eyesight, being transported on a prison ship. When meteorite debris crashes the vessel onto a barren planet, those on board must rely on Riddick's murderous instincts and his ability to see in the dark to survive. It's lean, mean planetary horror that earns its chills.

The stripped down setting cranks tension to 11, and Riddick is an outsider you root for even when he's stabbing your sympathies. Pitch Black is perfect for people who get a kick out of atmosphere over explosions (think Alien (1979) vibes, but with more attitude). This movie set the mood for everything that follows, and honestly, nothing beats that first descent into darkness.

The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury (2004)

The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury is a 35‑minute anime‑influenced short that bridges the gap between the first and second live-action feature films. The story shows Riddick rescuing survivors, surviving a zero-gravity melee in the hangar, and choosing exile over submission. Visually, it's a thrilling blend of classic and CGI animation. The luminescent threats and visceral fight sequences pay homage to the franchise's dark aesthetic.

Despite its minimalist runtime, Dark Fury gives fans exactly what they crave, a deeper dive into Riddick's brutal moral code and survival edge. Although the critical response was mixed, viewers appreciated the animated short, which is essentially a compact dose of Riddick's violence, wit, and survival skills. If you're secretly into anime's more violent cousins (think 2003’s Animatrix energy), this is the weird, turbocharged appetizer you didn't know you needed.

The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)

Five years after escaping Pitch Black's horrors, Riddick remains hunted, his fugitive status escalating. When bounty hunters led by Toombs betray him, he escapes to Helion Prime, reunites with Imam, and learns of the encroaching Necromonger crusade, a species-spanning cult bent on converting or annihilating humanity. Despite its ambition and Diesel's popularity, critics weren't thrilled with The Chronicles of Riddick, calling it narratively muddled.

Yet, it remains a cult darling, with fans loving its cosmic scale and the entire space adventure. If you want mythology with your action, and prophecy battles with your Vin Diesel one-liners, this is your galactic playground. Compared to the tight terror of Pitch Black, this feels like trading a cozy horror novel for a sprawling sci-fi epic.

Riddick (2013)

Returning to the franchise's roots, Riddick strands its antihero on a strange planet. Betrayed by the Necromongers, he's left for dead until bounty hunters arrive, drawn by the colossal reward for his capture. This entry feels more Pitch Black than Chronicles, thanks to its grounded story and claustrophobic vibe. Diesel's performance is at peak Riddick, with brutal efficiency and a twisted moral code.

Critics generally welcomed the film as a return to form for the franchise. Packed with star power and a dark core, it's a rebound that reminds fans why they fell for Riddick in the first place. If you've been rolling your eyes at too-much fluff, Riddick is here to steal you back with snarls and sand monsters. It's comfort food for fans who missed the gritty roots of the original, with just enough polish to remind you why Riddick works best when he's scraping to stay alive.

Riddick: Furya (TBA)

Picking up where Riddick left off, the fourth chapter in the franchise will see Richard B. Riddick finally return to his homeworld of Furya, which he barely remembers. Once ravaged by the Necromongers, Furya was thought to be a dead rock, but Riddick discovers a world teeming with survivors hardened by war and generational trauma. But the planet is far from safe as a new threat prepares to emerge.

Although Riddick: Furya has no official release date at this time, it is rumored to hit screens sometime in 2027. It could be the emotional payoff this saga has been hinting at like X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) but with deeper scars, survival, and a homecoming that's as muddy as it is mythic.

Jurassic World (2015) took what made Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park (1993) so special and cranked it up a couple of notches. Now, the dinosaurs are bigger and the stakes are higher. And while all that action is cool, the franchise works best as a cautionary tale about humans playing God and pissing off nature in the process. Truthfully, there's nothing quite like the Jurassic World series or the preceding Jurassic Park movies. Still, if you're craving more creature feature encounters with plenty of suspense, scares, and wonder, you've got options.

From morality lessons in scientific overreach to silly dinosaur fun, here are the five best horror movies for Jurassic World fans to watch next, listed in order of release date. Netflix, HBO Max, and more are at your service for planning an easy scary movie night.

Jaws (1975)

It feels cliché even to put Jaws on this list, but out of Steven Spielberg's entire filmography, it might be the movie closest to Jurassic Park when it comes to adventure, suspense, and sheer terror. When Brody (Roy Scheider), Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss), and Quint (Robert Shaw) ship off into open water to hunt the movie's man-eating shark, it mirrors the isolation the characters face in nearly every Jurassic World movie when they find themselves pitted against a massive creature with way more teeth than them.

If you haven't seen Jaws yet, watch it. There's a reason people are still talking about it 50 years later. The summer blockbuster element gives it mainstream appeal. However, horror movie fans will take particular delight in the slow-creeping suspense Spielberg masterfully evokes from start to end.

Pitch Black (2000)

Even though it's part of the successful Riddick franchise, Pitch Black remains somewhat of a cult classic sci-fi spectacle. This 2000s sleeper hit stars notable names like Vin Diesel (Riddick himself), Keith David, and Radha Mitchell, who find themselves stranded on an alien planet with an abundance of twisted, creepy creatures that prefer to attack under the cover of darkness. 

While its low-budget shows these days, Pitch Dark is a fitting companion watch to Jurassic World. It carries a similar brand of mayhem meets sci-fi, as the group faces off against creatures they had no business ever encountering in the first place. If Jaws isn't quite thrilling enough for you, Pitch Black is pure survival horror action.

The Host (2006) 

The Host is Parasite (2019) director Bong Joon Ho's love letter to monster movie franchises like Godzilla. Here, the monster in question stems from the Han River in Seoul, Korea, and wreaks havoc on any humans that cross its tentacled path.

While the movie lacks dinosaurs, its underlying message feels akin to Jurassic World. With the creature created by the illegal dumping of toxic chemicals, The Host provides ample commentary on the dangers of contaminating nature. Just like the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchises, the real villains aren't the monsters, but the people who irresponsibly brought them to life. If monster movies like Alien (1979) and Shin Godzilla (2016) rank among your favorites, The Host should keep your interest. 

The VelociPastor (2018)

Listen, nobody said these had to be critically acclaimed recommendations (right?), which is why The VelociPastor rounds out this list as one of those "so bad, it's good" movies. Everything you need to know is right in the title. After sustaining an injury from an ominous Chinese artifact, a pastor gains the ability to transform into a Velociraptor—and, yup, that's pretty much it.

In some ways, the movie has more in common with The Hulk than Jurassic World. However, The VelociPastor has enough dino action and stupid fun to delight B-movie lovers. If that's not really your thing, give it a try anyway. Who knows? Maybe a broken, butt-kicking dino-priest is exactly what's missing from your watch-list.

Godzilla: Minus One (2023)

Godzilla: Minus One being a horror movie may be up for debate. Some argue it's more of a thriller, while others maintain that it's a suspense-heavy horror movie on par with Jaws. Regardless, it might be one of the best films of 2023, and if you have any affection for Godzilla or giant monster movies in general, then you're going to love this one.

Like Jurassic World, Godzilla: Minus One evokes fear with its giant reptilian Kaiju while pointing the finger at humanity's hubris. Following in the footsteps of its predecessors, Minus One carries a strong anti-war message and thrusts our protagonists (and Godzilla) right into the tail end of World War II. It's equally beautiful and heart-wrenching. And while it might not be as scary as Shin Godzilla, it's arguably more compelling.

For an entire generation of American anime fans, Toonami was the mecca of anime. Before the age of streaming, if you wanted to watch anime on television, Toonami was the place to go, introducing and popularizing some of the most iconic anime of its era. Even if you’re not an anime fan, Toonami also had its own slew of original programming that catered to Western tastes that have gone on to become cult classics among millennials and Gen Z.

While most people think that several of the block’s most prolific titles, like Yu Yu Hakusho (1992) or Sailor Moon (1992), premiered on Toonami, that isn’t entirely the case. Many titles also premiered on Toonami’s sister programming block, Adult Swim, or moved to Toonami from Saturday morning cartoons. In honor of the longevity of Toonami, and to celebrate its recent redesign, I look back at the 10 best cartoons associated with the block and let you know how to watch them, whether on Crunchyroll, HBO Max, or other platforms. 

Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

Probably the most important show to appear on Toonami has to be Dragon Ball Z. While it premiered on other channels before making its way to Toonami, it wasn’t until it reached Cartoon Network’s anime block in 1998 that its popularity finally took hold, and more people began to watch it. 

The story of Son Goku has become intrinsic to the entire anime community and established trends that can be seen in shows like Fairy Tail (2009) and My Hero Academia (2016), with iconic moments, like Goku’s Kamehameha, Spirit Bomb, and Super Saiyan transformation, ingraining themselves in popular culture around the world. Dragon Ball has always had a home on Toonami, and thanks to numerous entries like the original, Z, GT, Kai, Super, and the recent Daima, the franchise now spans hundreds of episodes and dozens of movies. You simply can’t have Toonami without Dragon Ball Z, and you can’t have the modern-day anime community without it, either. It balances comedy, action, and drama in such a way that anyone can easily hop into it and get hooked by the drama Goku and his friends end up in.

Mobile Suit Gundam: Wing (1995)

There’s no denying that Mobile Suit Gundam is one of the most prolific anime franchises of all time. While it has existed since 1979, it wasn’t until Mobile Suit Gundam: Wing premiered on Toonami in 2000 that the series finally aired in the West and was a smash hit for Cartoon Network. Young otaku like myself were then exposed to the story of a quintet of protagonists and the intergalactic war they’re forced to fight in, and we wanted more of the grand interconnected conflicts that Mobile Suit Gundam would be known for.

Mobile Suit Gundam: Wing aired in two different time slots, an edited version for daytime television and an uncut version for late-night airings, giving audiences a choice of whether they wanted to see tamer violence or be exposed to the more overt and definitely not child-friendly anti-war messages that define the series. It was the first time Westerners had truly encountered an anime space opera, one that ran for 49 episodes and drew inspiration from shows like Space Pirate Captain Harlock (1978) and would later influence shows like Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995). If you want to go down the Gundam rabbit hole, give Mobile Suit Gundam: Wing a try!

Teen Titans (2003-2006)

Toonami wasn’t just the home of anime. Cartoon Network would also debut several teen-oriented shows over the course of its history. One of the most popular titles was Teen Titans, to the point where fans are still clamoring for a revival after a critically acclaimed five-season run. 

The show is a reinvention of the DC superhero team of the same name, injecting an anime aesthetic into classic superhero fare and modernizing the line-up of heroes that popularized the team in the 1980s. Each week, viewers watched Robin, Cyborg, Starfire, Raven, and Beast Boy use their powers to defeat a whole host of villains, sometimes in one-and-done episodes, and other times, in multi-episode arcs, becoming a smash hit on the block thanks to its successful blending of Western and Eastern animation styles. It’s dark like Batman: The Animated Series (1992), yet still manages to be lighthearted like Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005). If you’re looking for an anime-inspired action series with some Western sensibilities, then start watching the series on Prime Video.

Justice League Unlimited (2004-2006)

One of Cartoon Network’s most successful shows in the early 2000s was Justice League, and while that series did not originate on Toonami, its sequel series, Justice League Unlimited, did. The original series was supposed to end after the second season, but because of its popularity and an attempt to get new viewers interested, Justice League was rebranded into Unlimited, switched over to Toonami, and continued to receive critical acclaim and adulation from fans. 

There was a shift in focus from each show, though, with Unlimited spending more of its time on the expanded Justice League members, like Black Canary, Aquaman, and Mister Terrific, and the adventures they would get involved in as opposed to the core League members, like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. The adventures were still serious, but the stakes felt much less dire, which at times invokes a fever dream mix between Superman: The Animated Series (1996), Static Shock (2000), and even Gargoyles (1994), and makes it more accessible to general audiences.

Megas XLR (2004-2005)

Arguably one of the most underrated shows on Toonami, Megas XLR is the perfect embodiment of what made the block so desirable. Like Teen Titans, it blended anime aesthetics with Western sensibilities and combined what people love most about Mobile Suit Gundam: Wing and American cartoons: giant robots and slapstick! 

The series follows two slackers from New Jersey, Coop and Jamie, as they find a giant robot from the future called Megas and outfit its cockpit with Coop’s car, allowing Coop to drive Megas and fight against alien invaders and giant monsters. The humor was definitely low-brow, but as a Jersey man myself, I couldn’t help but love how dumb and out-there it was, coming across at times like a more kid-friendly version of The Venture Bros. (2003). While the series was never as acclaimed as its contemporaries, it has a strong cult following. Fans have been craving its return since its cancellation in 2005. So, go support the show on Apple TV+ and maybe we’ll get a revival!

Naruto (2007-2017)

Another shonen anime that was introduced to the West, like Dragon Ball Z, thanks to Toonami was Naruto, a series about a plucky ninja named Naruto Uzumaki who wants nothing more than to become the leader, or Hokage, of his village, but has to overcome rival ninjas and evil organizations to do so.

Unlike Dragon Ball Z, which had earlier dubs and releases before appearing on Toonami, Naruto debuted on the block in 2005, meaning it had a sizable hand in exposing the series to the West. It’s a series filled with plenty of creative powers, delicious bad guys, and some of the best rivalries ever seen in an anime. It, alongside One Piece (1999) and Bleach (2004), defined their era and plenty of anime series since have drawn inspiration from Naruto, like Black Clover (2017), My Hero Academia, and even newer shows like Gachiakuta(2025), because of how perfect it is at appealing to teenage boys thanks to its action, large cast, and emotionally relatable protagonist.

Space Dandy (2014)

In 2008, amid declining ratings, Toonami went off the air, but it returned with a vengeance in 2012 with a renewed interest in airing original anime to compete with the now-growing and highly influential Crunchyroll. One of the first, and biggest titles, to be released was Space Dandy, which Shinichirō Watanabe, the creator of Cowboy Bebop (1998), directed. 

While Bebop was more poignant and character-driven, Space Dandy prioritizes comedy first and foremost as it follows Dandy throughout the universe, mostly trying to earn enough money to go to his favorite sex-themed restaurant and oftentimes failing in the process. The series doesn’t take itself seriously in the slightest, and that easygoing sense of fun permeates throughout each episode. It can still have those dramatic sensibilities from Bebop, but it also takes a lot of inspiration from shows like Space Adventure Cobra (1982) and The Irresponsible Captain Tyler (1993). If you want a silly and laid-back space comedy that’s only around 24 episodes long, then Space Dandy is a perfect fit for you.

FLCL (2018, 2023)

While FLCL (2000) originally debuted on Adult Swim instead of Toonami, after the block’s revival in 2012, FLCL made its way over and served as the home not only for the original six-episode series, but also for the four sequel series that premiered on Toonami from 2018 to 2023. 

The five seasons that make up FLCL are all coming-of-age stories, usually assisted or kick-started by the eccentric ball of energy Haruko, that lambast Western tropes and typically feature a lot of weird and surreal imagery, like giant irons, robots growing out of people’s heads, and Vespas that would feel right at home in shows like The Tatami Galaxy (2010) or Punch Line (2015). Each season varies wildly in terms of tone, with the first season being a mile-a-minute comedy and a season like FLCL: Progressive being quieter and contemplative. If you want to see something completely bizarre, emotionally poignant, and take big swings at big topics, any of the five seasons of FLCL will work.

Samurai Jack (2001-2017)

Much like FLCL, Samurai Jack didn’t actually premiere on Toonami, but on Adult Swim. Its popularity would cause it to leave that block and appear all over Cartoon Network in the mid-2000s, including Toonami, earning critical acclaim for its sleek action reminiscent of Akira Kurosawa and striking animation that would inspire shows like Blue Eye Samurai (2023). Nearly a decade later, it was announced that Samurai Jack would return for a fifth season, and it would be exclusive to Toonami. 

The season picks up half a century after Season 4, with Jack, unable to age, slowly going mad with no means of defeating the demon Aku. The fifth season is noticeably darker than any of the earlier seasons, but it also contains some of the show’s most triumphant and beautiful moments, mostly centering on the romance that develops between Jack and Ashi, an assassin who worships Aku. You wouldn’t expect such a dark action show to have a beautiful romance inside it, but it’s one of the best things about the fifth season, as well as how cathartic the ending is for longtime fans of the series and action fans in general. If you love Samurai Jack or animated action shows, you need to see the fifth season ASAP.

Ninja Kamui (2024)

The impact of Toonami has diminished in recent years, but it still can produce several shows that manage to be a hit not only on TV but also when they appear on HBO Max shortly after their debut. Case in point, Ninja Kamui. 

Created by Sunghoo Park and channeling a lot of the same style of violence from his earlier shows Garo: Vanishing Line (2017) and Jujutsu Kaisen (2020), the series follows a ninja named Higan, who attempts to escape his clan and start a new life for himself with his wife Mari. His clan eventually tracks him down and kills his wife and child, sending Higan, now known as Joe, on a path of bloody vengeance. This leads to some excellent action set pieces and wonderful fight choreography, making the series a visceral thrill ride that is stuffed to the brim with excellent sakuga. It may be a bit light on characterization, but because the action is so good, you can easily overlook it. Given the show was confirmed to receive a second and third season, there is plenty of opportunity for growth and emotional evolution.

In the 1960s, two things were huge at DC Comics: team books and the Justice League of America. To that end, a one-off pairing of a handful of sidekicks would capitalize on both, leading to one of DC’s most popular superhero teams: the Teen Titans. Originally comprised entirely of sidekicks to League members, the team has since developed its own lauded identity and become one of DC’s most popular brands. 

Its luck outside of comics has been a mixed bag. While animated outings have produced some of the most beloved series ever, the Teen Titans just haven’t had that live-action hit… yet. A new film is in development, and the success of Superman (2025) makes it increasingly likely we’ll see it. While you get ready for that, here’s every Teen Titans TV show and movie, as well as where to find them on streaming services like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max. 

Superman/Aquaman Hour of Adventure (1967-1968)

Airing as part of Superman/Aquaman Hour of Adventure, the Teen Titans made their animated debut just a few years after their comic book one. Superman/Aquaman Hour of Adventure focuses on pairing a continuing story from the previous year’s The New Adventures of Superman with brand new adventures in Aquaman. The show also includes a rotating series of “guest stars.” One such segment is Teen Titans, who appear in three of the guest segments rotated alongside segments starring the Justice League, the Atom, and more. 

This is still the original incarnation of the Teen Titans, but the team actually omits traditional team leader Robin, instead featuring Kid Flash, Speedy, Wonder Girl, and Aqualad. Sadly, there’s just not a lot notable here. If you grew up on the classic ‘60s cartoons, you’ll probably love this one, but the dated storytelling and animation will make this a chore for new viewers. 

Teen Titans (2003-2006)

Perhaps the most well known iteration of the Teen Titans to this day, the 2003 Teen Titans cartoon was something of a revelation. Featuring a team consisting of Robin, Cyborg, Beast Boy, Starfire, and Raven, the show is based largely on the genre-defining The New Teen Titans run of the ‘80s. Notably, Teen Titans isn’t attached to the then-current Justice League extension of the DCAU, but it nonetheless became incredibly popular. 

Teen Titans is a surprisingly dark and mature show that isn’t afraid to balance random and sarcastic humor with bitter character development and intense action. Even 20 years later, Teen Titans remains the measuring stick for new-and-adjacent Titans properties. If you want to step into the franchise, this is the ideal starting point. 

Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo (2006)

After five seasons, it was time for Teen Titans to draw to a close, but they were going out with a bang. Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo serves as the send-off for the series, sending the Titans on an international adventure after their base is attacked by a ninja. 

Critics and fans alike loved the Trouble in Tokyo, praising its tone and action, though many also felt it was missing some of the secret sauce that made the animated series so beloved. Nonetheless, it was the final installment of the 2003 series for some time, though fans didn’t realize it would not be the last time they saw them. If you dug the 2003 series and are looking for the endcap to that story, this is the one to go with. 

Teen Titans Go! (2013-2025)

Naturally, if something is incredibly popular, you have to milk it a little bit. Following a successful run in the DC Nation Shorts interstitials, a variation of the 2003 Titans would return in Teen Titans Go!, a more comedic spin-off with art that leans heavily into a chibi-influenced style. It cannot be overstated just how massively popular Teen Titans Go! was at launch, even among fans who had been holding out hope for a revival of the original series. 

The show’s popularity is so enduring that it’s actually still running today and has amassed a staggering 400+ episodes in the decade plus it has aired. Teen Titans Go! is absurd even by the lofty standards of 2010s animation, but it’s still a fun and endearing romp that’s perfect for some light action. 

Justice League vs. Teen Titans (2016)

Following the relaunch of the DC Animated Movie Universe in 2023, DC quickly filled out the roster with supporting characters. The inevitable endgame was a pair of Teen Titans movies, each of which loosely followed key plots from the comics. 2016’s Justice League vs. Teen Titans is the closest to an original tale, but it adopts several key plot points from both the original relaunch of The New Teen Titans and the various conflicts the team has had with the Justice League over the years. 

The film sees the Titans and their newest member, Damian Wayne, at odds with the League when Raven’s demonic father, Trigon, mounts an attack on Earth. Much like other DCAU entries, this is a solid animated feature that’s a great watch for anyone who wants to see the Justice League and Titans collide. Unfortunately, it is part of a larger narrative, so you should prepare to commit to watching a long stretch of movies. 

Teen Titans: The Judas Contract (2017)

If you’ve already adapted a Teen Titans origin story, the next logical step is its most infamous story: The Judas Contract. Based on the landmark and wildly controversial tale of the same name, the Titans find themselves fighting off Brother Blood with the help of their newest member, the Earth-bending Terra. Little do they realize that Terra is a double agent, having joined the Titans at the behest of their archenemy Deathstroke so that he could reclaim Damian for Ra’s al Ghul. 

Thankfully, Teen Titans: The Judas Contract departs heavily from the story it was based on and results in a much more tolerable tale than its controversial comic book counterpart. It’s roughly the same quality as any other DCAU entries, though. So, if you want a lighter version of this story, you should turn to the Teen Titan take on Terra’s arc. 

Titans (2018-2023)

For years, Warner Bros tried to get its vision for a Teen Titans series off the ground, with Star Trek: Strange New Worlds co-creator Akiva Goldsman eventually developing the project alongside former Teen Titans scribe Geoff Johns and Arrow mastermind Greg Berlanti. Finally, with the launch of the ill-fated DC Universe streaming service, Titans would make its debut. And it was… not great. The show is a wild departure from the source material; a jaded Dick Grayson has long since abandoned Robin, becoming a detective in Detroit, but the arrival of Rachel Roth calls him begrudgingly back into action. 

The show ran for four seasons between DC Universe and HBO Max with mixed reviews, which feels like an understatement. Titans is just a chore to watch with boring characters, boring action, and plots that are so bad they’re almost funny. This one’s an easy pass unless you’re a true completionist. 

Teen Titans Go! To The Movies (2018)

Like their predecessors, Teen Titans Go! would eventually get a movie to capitalize on the success of the show. Unlike its predecessors, though, it would be a big-screen affair that celebrated not just the Titans, but films in general. Teen Titans Go! To The Movies saw the team trying to get a big-budget hollywood movie made about themselves after Robin is mocked for not having his own movie. However, the plan goes awry when their nemesis Slade turns back up. 

Teen Titans Go! To The Movies is a fun little romp with some great humor. But really, the most important reason to watch it is for the post-credits tease, which sets up the return of the original Titans. 

Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans (2019)

It’s not often a post-credits scene pays off so well and so quickly, but leave it to the Teen Titans to make it happen. As the name implies, Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans sees the 2003 animated version of the Teen Titans find a way back. Pit into a fight against their Teen Titans Go! counterparts, the two teams quickly realize their situation and band together as one powerful team to save the multiverse from the threat of two Trigons. 

Thankfully, Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans doesn’t waste a lot of time on the teams fighting each other. The resulting movie is an entertaining romp with big humor and light action that’s perfect for anyone who can’t get enough of both iterations of the Teen Titans. 

Teen Titans Go! See Space Jam (2021)

Okay, so you’ve had a big-screen Teen Titans Go! adventure, and then you had the crossover in Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans, so what’s next? Probably something big, right? Something with a ton of action and drama to cap off the trilogy? How about instead you get a thinly veiled promotional tool in the tradition of Mystery Science Theater 3000. 

Teen Titans Go! See Space Jam was released as promotion for the then-upcoming Space Jam: A New Legacy, and the film sees the team literally watching Space Jam with the film’s villains, the Nerdlucks. If you really like the humor of Teen Titans Go!, this is a fun enough romp, but you could just watch Space Jam and get largely the same experience. 

Teen Titans Go! & DC Super Hero Girls: Mayhem in the Multiverse (2022)

The latest Teen Titans Go! Movie as of this writing, Teen Titans Go! & DC Super Hero Girls: Mayhem in the Multiverse, pulls double duty once again. This time, the film serves as a series finale to DC Super Hero Girls, a series which featured young versions of various DC characters as they attended a super hero high school run by Amanda Waller. The film spends much of its runtime in the DC Super Hero Girls universe, but the Titans eventually appear following a multiversal mishap, teaming up to defeat Cythonna, a Kryptonian Goddess of Darkness. 

This one’s a great watch if you’re a fan of DC Super Hero Girls. However, for Teen Titans Go! fans, it’s a little harder to recommend. The team barely shows up in the film, which is pretty disappointing if you’re coming into this one specifically for the Titans.

While DC’s most important hero may be returning to the big screen in Superman (2025), most fans are looking for the Batman’s most popular movies. It’s been three years as of this writing since Batman last appeared on the big screen, and it’s likely to be as many before he’s seen again. Fans are eagerly waiting for casting choices, script developments, and most importantly, costume updates for whichever Batman film hits the big screen next. 

The costume is, arguably, the most important part. Batman cuts an iconic silhouette, and the discussion about the costume and how it changes from film to film is a major topic among fans. We don’t know what Batman will be wearing when we see him next, but maybe we can infer something by ranking the five best Batman movie suits. 

5. The Dark Knight (2008)

By the time of 2008’s The Dark Knight, everyone was tired of the same exhausting jokes about Batman being unable to move his neck in the movies. Christopher Nolan didn’t just address it head on (no pun intended), he made it a plot point. Concerned about being unable to move in combat, Batman gets an upgraded suit with a cowl more akin to a biker helmet, giving him a tremendous range of motion. The suit looks great, but at the same time, it also ditches a lot of the traditional trappings for a more militaristic take, robbing it of a lot of its charm. 

4. Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)

Look, let’s just get it out of the way: There are a lot of problems with and divisive opinions about Zack Snyder’s DCEU, but the one thing you can’t deny is the man knows how to make things look good on screen. The Batsuit first donned by Ben Affleck in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a peak example of this. It brilliantly adapts the classic suit from The Dark Knight Returns, but it’s just so bulky that it looks impossible to move around in. The suit was slimmed down for 2017’s disastrous Justice League, but reshoots in broad daylight really tarnish the reputation. Check out Zack Snyder’s Justice League for the definitive version of this suit; streamlined, fierce, and shot in the moody lighting it deserves. It’s genuinely beautiful. 

3. Batman Returns (1992)

The Batsuit featured in 1989’s Batman is perhaps the most important one ever made, not only lending an air of credibility to Tim Burton’s dark take on Batman but shifting the public perception across all media that The Dark Knight wore black. But that 1989 suit has aged weird; the texture looks very soft, the fake muscles stick out like a sore thumb, and the fit is so awkward that you could probably fit a full hand inside the cowl. Batman Returns took what work and improved it. The fit is tighter, the muscles are replaced with a more mechanical-inspired art deco look, and the material looks much more solid. It’s hard to improve a classic, but this era of Batman arguably never looked better than he did in Returns. 

2. Batman Begins (2005)

It took a long time to get a new Batman after Batman & Robin salted the Earth, but 2005’s Batman Begins brought Gotham City back with a bold new vision. Christopher Nolan took Batman back to basics, and that included an in-depth examination of the Batsuit and how it was made. The suit here still has a lot of superhero trappings while leaning into Nolan’s more realistic world than what came before, but honestly it works so perfectly in this film. As great as the suit from The Dark Knight looks, the Batman Begins suit is a beautiful update to Tim Burton’s work while still taking Batman into the 2000s. 

1. The Batman (2022)

The Batsuit featured in 2022’s The Batman is a stark departure from what we’ve seen before. Depicting a Batman in his second year of crimefighting, the suit looks like it was cobbled together as he went, with pieces added to counter his weaknesses as he fought. And it honestly works. This is a Batman who thrives on instilling fear, who embraces the idea of living in the shadows. Previous Batmen could survive a gunshot, but Robert Pattinson’s Batman is a walking tank. It’s not as sleek or refined, but it’s the most visually interesting Batsuit we’ve ever seen, and it narratively tells us more about Batman than any movie suit before it. 

Where To Watch The Best Batman Movie Suits Online

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has spent 20 years as a highlight of the comedy world, with a massive number of big-name stars making an appearance at Paddy’s Pub. That extends to the show’s Season 17 premiere, which continues the crossover with Abbott Elementary and shifts the focus to the Gang and their antics. However, the cast of Abbott Elementary is far from the first stars to run afoul of Dennis, Dee, Mac, Charlie, and Frank.

Some of the best guest stars have matched the comic energy of the Gang, bringing their own unrestrained energy to the show. Others have played realistic or calm characters, naturally contrasting the extremes of the rest of the main cast. A few have even been genuinely emotional, delivering real human moments in a show mostly about awful people. Here are the best 10 guest stars in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and where you can find their other movies and TV shows on apps like Apple TV+, Netflix, and Hulu!

Judy Greer

Season 3, Episode 5, "The Aluminum Monster vs. Fatty Magoo" 

An early but memorable guest star in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Judy Greer was a great early addition to the universe of the darkly hilarious sitcom. Greer has been a fixture of the comedy world for years, with starring roles in shows like Archer and memorable supporting turns in films like 13 Going on 30.

Greer plays a uniquely straightforward character in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, opposite a far more unstable Dee. An old friend of Dee who has risen up in the world, Greer’s Ingrid finds herself the target of Dee’s scorn and the rest of the Gang’s ambitions. Ingrid is a perfect counterbalance to Dee, a comically blunt but never condescending contrast to the comically awful Dee. It’s a bit of a departure for Greer, who specializes in playing her own brand of off-kilter behavior for comedy, but a memorable one.

Jason Sudeikis

Season 6, Episode 8, “The Gang Gets a New Member"

Season 6’s “The Gang Gets a New Member” played with the history of the Gang by introducing Schmitty, a member of the Gang who had been phased out years before the beginning of the show. Effectively a normal but sleezy guy who can’t help but poke fun at the absurd aspects of the Gang’s antics, Schmitty is played with casual charm by Jason Sudeikis.

Coming long before he’d be best known for playing the title role in the sweet Apple TV+ hit Ted Lasso, Sudeikis made a name for himself playing comedic dirtbags in films like We’re the Millers. Schmitty fits neatly into that mold while also having a unique enough perspective on the Gang that it subverts expectations in a clever manner. 

Alexandra Daddario

Season 8, Episode 4, “Charlie and Dee Find Love” 

One of the most surprisingly emotional supporting characters in the history of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Alexandra Daddario’s role as Ruby is a somber one when introduced as a new love interest for Charlie, drawing his attention away from the Waitress, Ruby Taft.

Daddario, who has also starred in searing dramas like True Detective and The White Lotus, gives a genuinely emotional performance that bounces perfectly off the constantly uncouth Charlie. This builds to the episode’s brutal final turn that lets Daddario use the full scope of her dramatic abilities to play against a shockingly villainous Charlie. It’s a moment that even catches the other members of the Gang by surprise and is one of the best unexpected plot twists in the show’s history.

Seann William Scott

Season 9, Episode 5, “Mac Day”

Season 9’s “Mac Day” is one of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s funniest episodes and an extended punch-line about the pathetic nature of the Gang’s self-proclaimed “badass bodyguard,” Mac. Serving as the perfect contrast to the blowhard and judgmental Mac is his laidback cousin, dubbed Country Mac. Played by American Pie and Dude, Where’s My Car? star Seann William Scott, Country Mac is everything the Gang could ever want, wrapped up in a calm, confident package.

The fact that Country Mac is then disposed of so unceremoniously is a darkly hilarious reminder that the Gang can never escape one another. Scott delivers one of the show’s best deadpan performances in the one-off appearance, making him one of the show’s best guest stars.

Keegan-Michael Key

Season 10, Episode 8, “The Gang Goes on Family Fight”

One of modern film and television’s best comedic actors, Keegan-Michael Key channels all of Steve Harvey’s frustrations into his game show host character in Season 10’s “The Gang Goes on Family Fight.” Grant Anderson is a typically cheery gameshow host who finds his patience quickly put to the test by the Gang. Their antics and bizarre answers quickly frustrate him, letting Key tap into the outbursts of rage that made his Luther character such a breakout hit on Key & Peele.

The episode largely focuses on the game show and the Gang’s inexplicable lead, which increasingly pushes all of Anderson’s buttons. One of the few guest stars to match the Gang’s chaotic energy with his own brand of absurd anger that he perfected on shows like Schmigadoon!, Keegan-Michael Key’s guest spot on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a hilariously unrelenting beat taken as far as it will go. 

Guillermo del Toro

Season 11, Episode 7, “McPoyle vs. Ponderosa: The Trial of the Century” 

One of cinema’s most prominent genre directors, Guillermo del Toro worked with Charlie Day on Pacific Rim before making a cameo appearance as Pappy McPoyle in Season 8. While this was a grimly hilarious beat, Pappy got a much more memorable (and hilarious) appearance in Season 11’s “McPoyle vs. Ponderosa: The Trial of the Century.”

Called to the stand during a trial between many of the show’s most consistent supporting characters, Pappy’s chaotic performance builds to a surprisingly (and hilariously) cartoonish turn when he unleashes his pet bird on the defense attorney. The director of films like Pan’s Labyrinth gets to go big on screen in a way he rarely does from behind the camera, and it’s a very funny appearance from one of modern Hollywood’s best filmmakers.

Mindy Kaling

Season 13, Episode 1, “The Gang Makes Paddy's Great Again”

Coming on the heels of Glenn Howerton seemingly leaving the show at the end of Season 12’s “Dennis’ Double Life,” the Season 13 premiere introduced The Mindy Project’s Mindy Kaling as a surprisingly great addition to the Gang. “The Gang Makes Paddy’s Great Again” deals with the fallout of Dennis’ departure to help raise the son he didn’t know he had, with Kaling’s Cindy taking his place as a major schemer of the group.

Kaling fits neatly into the dynamic of the group, utilizing them to the best of their strengths, even as the Gang’s flaws threaten to destabilize the work she’s put into her plans. As a one-off character who a returning Dennis quickly usurps, The Office star fits easily into the show’s sardonic style. Fans disappointed they didn’t get to see much of Dennis and Cindy going back and forth can check out Velma, which Howerton and Kaling co-starred in.

Dolph Lundgren

Season 14, Episode 2, “Thunder Gun 4: Maximum Cool”

Paying off a set up from seasons prior, Dolph Lundgren’s appearance in Season 14’s “Thunder Gun 4: Maximum Cool” is a very fun extended gag about the nature of the action genre. Established as one of the biggest action franchises in the It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia universe, Thunder Gun’s latest movie gets a few clips shown in-universe as an example of an action franchise rebooting for a new generation.

The Rocky IV/Creed II star has a lot of fun poking fun at the kind of action movie roles he played in films like The Expendables and The Punisher, delivering some solid laughs throughout. Lundgren has always been a deceptively funny actor, especially in films like Tour de Pharmacy. It makes perfect sense to cast him as Thunder Gun for the episode. A minor but memorable payoff for Season 7’s “Thunder Gun Express,” Dolph Lundgren is a great pick to return.

Colm Meaney

Season 15, Episode 6, “The Gang's Still In Ireland” 

One of the most surprisingly emotional guest stars in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Colm Meaney’s appearance in multiple episodes of Season 15 as Charlie’s biological father Shelley gives the show one of its best ever dramatic scenes. Portrayed as a well-meaning dope much in the same vein as his son, the Gangs of London and Hell on Wheels star brings a lovely grounded element to the character. The sweet rapport that grows between him and Charlie is undercut by the clear pain it causes Frank and the trauma that Charlie has to unpack, forcing typically non-stop joke machines to actually become humans.

Meaney makes Shelley a compelling character who never distracts from the actual focus of the story. Delivering a sweet performance that never stops being funny, Meaney brings some true weight to the show’s extended Ireland storyline.

Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul

Season 16, Episode 5, “Celebrity Booze: The Ultimate Cash Grab”

One of the only times the guest stars in the episode were actively playing themselves, Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul’s cameo in Season 16’s “Celebrity Booze: The Ultimate Cash Grab” stands out as one of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s most absurd episodes in a while. The episode reunites the Breaking Bad stars as the targets of the Gang’s newest scheme, by which they hope to get a celebrity endorsement for their newly concocted liquor.

The self-aware comedy picks up when it turns out the Gang only knows Cranston from Malcom in the Middle (and mistakes Paul for a grown Frankie Muniz), along with the discovery that their dynamic as Walter and Jesse have been flipped for these fictionalized versions of the actors. It’s one of the comedic highlights of Season 15, and one of the best celebrity cameos in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

Where To Watch 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' Best Guest Stars Online

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For decades, the Jurassic Park franchise has delighted viewers by putting dinosaurs into a contemporary setting alongside humans. Naturally, the result of humans experimenting with and trying to exploit dinosaurs is that dinosaurs eat many people. However, the films also acknowledge the diversity of dinosaurs, including those that are friendly or domesticable.

Following the release of Jurassic Park Rebirth, the range of predatory and friendly dinosaurs has expanded further. Viewers can use our guide to find out which predator dinosaurs in the Jurassic Park movies they wouldn’t want to run into and which they could keep as pets.

Predator: Dilophosaurus

Jurassic Park (1993)

One of the most notorious dinosaurs to encounter in the wild is the Dilophosaurus, which made its debut in the original Jurassic Park. In the film, a juvenile Dilophosaurus stalks Dennis Nedry (Wayne Knight) upon breaking free from its enclosure. As a juvenile, the dinosaur is relatively small, and colorful frills frame its face, leading Nedry to believe the unique creature isn’t so bad. That is, until it spits poisonous venom in his face, temporarily blinding him before devouring him. In real life, there’s no evidence that Dilophosaurus could eject venom. Still, the added detail in Jurassic Park makes it the most terrifying dinosaur to be attacked by, as it blinds and paralyzes its prey with venom before consuming it.

Pet: Compsognathus

The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997)

Compsognathus dinosaurs debuted in The Lost World: Jurassic Park and resemble miniature T. Rexes. These dinosaurs stand about two feet tall and are thin and long, with green coloring and hands and hind legs similar to those of a T. Rex. While carnivorous, their size means they primarily consume a diet of lizards and insects. However, in The Lost World: Jurassic Park, the Compsognathus dinosaurs attack in packs to take down larger prey, including Dieter Stark (Peter Stormare). As long as one doesn’t get multiples, though, a sole Compsognathus would be a relatively harmless pet dinosaur.

Predator: Indoraptor

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018)

The Indoraptor is a genetically engineered dinosaur in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, created from combining the DNA of an Indominus Rex and Velociraptor. In Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, the Indoraptor exhibits incredibly high levels of intelligence, including hiding, stalking, and feigning sleep. Its stealthy, cunning ways make it particularly dangerous and unpredictable. It’s one of the few dinosaurs in the franchise that seems truly driven by sadism rather than survival. Coming face-to-face with an Indoraptor promises to be one of the most painful, prolonged deaths, given the dinosaur's sadistic, aggressive nature.

Pet: Velociraptor

Jurassic World (2015)

Typically, one does not want to encounter a Velociraptor from the Jurassic Park franchise, as these dinosaurs are intelligent, fast, and deadly. However, Jurassic World suggests these dinosaurs can be semi-domesticated. In the movie, Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) raised the Velociraptor Blue from birth and trained her so she came to see him as her pack leader. Although she shifted her allegiance between him and other dinosaurs, she ultimately protected him and later returned to him in Jurassic World Dominion, accompanied by her baby, Beta. If one can train and domesticate a Velociraptor, it could serve as a good, protective pet; however, it might be best to keep it as an outdoor pet for safety reasons.

Predator: Giganotosaurus

Jurassic World Dominion (2022)

There’s nothing worse than being eaten by a dinosaur so enormous that it paralyzes its prey with fear. The Giganotosaurus appears in Jurassic World Dominion and is the largest terrestrial carnivorous dinosaur in the franchise. It's essentially a T. Rex, but significantly larger, weighing an estimated 30,000 pounds. The giant dinosaur blocks out the sun and shakes the Earth as it walks, continuously stalking the characters in Jurassic World Dominion and fighting other dinosaurs to establish its dominance. While one’s death would be relatively painless as they’d be eaten in one swift gulp, the thought of seeing 30,000 pounds of dinosaur coming toward you is nothing short of a nightmare.

Pet: Aquilops

Jurassic World Rebirth (2025)

Jurassic World Rebirth features an Aquilops dinosaur as a pet. The film follows a young girl named Isabela (Audrina Miranda) as she discovers a tiny Aquilops and adopts it as a pet, naming it Dolores. Aquilops are very small herbivorous ceratopsians, less than two feet in length and three pounds in weight. They are entirely harmless and adorable in Jurassic World Rebirth. Dolores exhibits signs of curiosity and protective instincts, melting viewers' hearts with her distinctive features, including her small, horned nose and striped tail. Few dinosaurs would make a better, safer pet.

Predator: Distortus Rex in

Jurassic World Rebirth (2025)

Of all the mutated dinosaurs in Jurassic World Rebirth, few are as terrifying as the Distortus Rex. The Distortus Rex is a mutated Tyrannosaurus rex, twice the size of a typical T. Rex, with six limbs, including two enormous, gorilla-like arms in addition to its two smaller arms. It has a bulge in its head like a beluga whale and walks hunched over with a hardly discernible neck. In Jurassic World Rebirth, it appears less like a dinosaur and more like a creature from a horror movie. These dinosaurs would first paralyze their prey with terror over their appearance before crushing it with their gorilla-like arms and tearing it to shreds with their teeth.

Pet: Gallimimus

Jurassic Park (1993)

Gallimimus dinosaurs first appear in Jurassic Park, as viewers witness flocks of the omnivores fleeing a T. Rex attack. They are small, bird-like dinosaurs with toothless mouths and long, thin bodies. Their behaviors and fluid movements are similar to those of flightless birds, making the packs of Gallimimus akin to a pack of ostriches. The animals in the Jurassic Park films are harmless, often fleeing predators and keeping busy by scavenging for bugs and herbs with their packs. They were even part of Jurassic World’s petting zoo area. Harmless and frequently in need of shelter from predators, Gallimimus dinosaurs would make great pets.

Predator: Scorpios Rex

Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous (2020)

The genetically modified Scorpios Rex serves as the primary antagonist in Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous Season 3. Although it finally reveals itself in the third season, it began stalking the gang as early as the first season, serving as an unseen villain for an extended period. Its appearance is that of a mutated Velociraptor with red eyes, dark slit pupils, and long, almost humanoid arms with clawed hands. The dinosaur's behavior is even scarier than its appearance, as it’s known to be aggressive, unpredictable, and prone to rampages. It's the kind of dinosaur that will give one false hope of safety before shooting them with poisonous quills and killing them indiscriminately before eating.

Pet: Lystrosaurus

Jurassic World Dominion (2022)

The Lystrosaurus is a small but heavily built herbivore that appears briefly in Jurassic World Dominion. In the film, a Lystrosaurus named Leonard was sold on the black market and forced into fighting other dinosaurs. While the Lystrosaurus has powerful tusk-like canines, it only utilizes them in defense. Otherwise, the dinosaur is docile and harmless. The average Lystrosaurus is just three feet long and walks on four short, squat legs. It’s sort of like the dinosaur version of a pug with its short, thick build and laid-back attitude. When in a safer environment than Jurassic World Dominion, the Lystrosaurus make for harmless, adorable pets.

Where To Watch 'Jurassic Park' And 'Jurassic World' Online

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Sometimes a person wants to watch a smartly written drama featuring Oscar-winning actors acting their hearts out, and other times, you want to watch a man throw knives into people’s eyes. Since its initial release, The Expendables franchise has catered to the latter category, excelling at dumb action that leaves the audience howling with laughter and clapping for more. But what separates The Expendables from every other action movie series? Well, as an elevator pitch, it would basically go something like this: “What if we put all of the greatest action movie stars together in a movie and let them go wild?”

And with that, The Expendables was born. There’s hardly any logic to the series, but that’s the beauty of it. It’s a callback to action movies of the ’80s, where the entire point was excessive and ludicrous action. At times, it’s a perfect replication of the period, starring some of the best action movie stars of the ‘80s and ‘90s, all the way up to the modern era. The Expendables is just plain fun, and a large number of people are rediscovering it since the franchise just celebrated its 15th anniversary. With most of the series available on Peacock, here’s how to watch The Expendables movies in order and what makes each entry stand out.

The Expendables (2010)

The Expendables follows the aforementioned team, consisting of several Hollywood action legends, like Jason Statham, Jet Li, and Terry Crews, and led by Sylvester Stallone’s Barney Ross, a no-nonsense tough guy. Together, the group hatches a secret mission to overthrow a tyrannical dictator on an island nation in the Gulf of Mexico. 

For an action movie, that’s really all you need. The charm of The Expendables isn’t the complex character drama, though there is some thanks to Jason Statham and the relationship he has with his girlfriend, which will be a subplot for the rest of the series. Instead, the charm lies in watching Sylvester Stallone blow things up and get into fights with other action stars like Dolph Lundgren and Stone Cold Steve Austin. This first film didn’t really lean into over-the-top fight scenes like the later films, but it channels some of the best ‘80s action movies, making it a worthy spiritual successor to violent masterpieces like Rambo: First Blood Part II and Red Scorpion.

The Expendables 2 (2012)

If The Expendables was about trying to find a balance between drama and action, The Expendables 2 goes all in on action and never looks back. This time, the team goes to Albania to retrieve a lost item. Upon finding it, they’re ambushed by the international arms dealer Jean Vilain, played by Jean-Claude Van Damme, who steals the item from them, kills one of their members, and runs away, forcing the team to hunt him down not only for the mysterious item, but also for vengeance. 

Yes, The Expendables 2 is stupid. Its main antagonist is literally one letter away from being named “villain,” but it is single-minded in its pursuit of violence, and I love it so much. For many fans, The Expendables 2 is the best film in the series, thanks to the focus on action and how tongue-in-cheek a lot of the fight scenes and characters have become. Why else would you cast Chuck Norris and have him literally recite memes about himself? Also, thanks to Van Damme’s inclusion, there’s a lot more hand-to-hand combat than in the previous film, though it doesn’t ever reach the peak of kung-fu action movies like Police Story. This is the kind of kickass action movie, like Commando and Sisu, where you turn your brain off and just watch the fireworks go off.

The Expendables 3 (2014)

While earlier Expendables movies had a large cast of action stars, The Expendables 3 goes above and beyond in adding new characters to the team. The third entry in the series offers a shift in style and tone, like being rated PG-13 while the first two films were rated R, and focusing on younger aspiring action movie stars, like Ronda Rousey, Victor Ortiz, and Glen Powell. Some veteran actors appear, including Wesley Snipes, Harrison Ford, and Mel Gibson, but it’s clear that The Expendables 3 wants to appeal to younger audiences for franchise sustainability. 

The setup is relatively similar to the second film, and it captures a lot of the same beats, which works at times, but more often than not, it makes the third film feel like an unnecessary step backward. It can’t have as much violent action as the earlier films due to its PG-13 rating, making it reminiscent of how movies like Terminator: Salvation and Live Free or Die Hard were limited when compared to the earlier entries in their series, all of which sported R-ratings. It’s also the longest Expendables movie, clocking in at just over two hours, while all of the earlier films hovered around 100 minutes, which leads to a bit of fatigue. Make no mistake, the action is still fine, and if you’re looking for action movies stuffed to the brim with big-name stars all showing off their eclectic skills, then The Expendables 3 will still satisfy you.

Expend4bles (2023)

Released nine years after the last Expendables movie, Expend4bles sees a big shift in the team dynamic. Sylvester Stallone’s Barney Ross is killed in a plane crash during a mission that went south, and now Jason Statham’s Lee Christmas is in charge of the team, consisting of new members played by Tony Jaa, Megan Fox, and 50 Cent, to avenge Barney’s death and avert World War III. 

The film returns the series to an R-rating and features plenty of R-rated action scenes, making this a return to form compared to the third movie. However, the film lacks the spark that the earlier entries had. A lot of the original trilogy’s appeal was watching veteran action movie stars prove that they still have their stuff, but Expend4bles feels more like a Jason Statham vehicle than anything else. If you’re a fan of Statham and enjoyed seeing him in movies like The Beekeeper, A Working Man, and Wrath of Man, then there’s some merit to watching Expend4bles, but if not, then it’s honestly an Expendables movie in name only. 

Some of the best—and most memorable—sitcoms of the last decade all feature one prominent thing: Solid romantic relationships that have not only stood the test of time, but no matter when we watch, they still make us swoon. As a genre, romance is one of the highest-grossing in any field, so the detail that our favorite comfort shows also feature endearing and unique love stories isn't accidental. They matter to the story, to the character development, and to the overall universal theme that many of us can understand despite our differences. 

From shows like Friends to the most recent sensation of Abbott Elementary, here are the 10 most memorable sitcom couples to have graced our screens.

Ben Wyatt and Leslie Knope (Parks and Recreation)

Countless critics have said that Parks and Recreation didn't find its footing until Adam Scott's Ben Wyatt stepped into the picture, and it's true. Waltzing into the Pawnee Parks Department for budget cuts, the instant rapport he builds with Amy Poehler's Leslie Knope has all the markings of the hate-to-love trope. Their animosity gradually develops into a friendship, then later leads to the type of romance that's all about exhibiting the great lengths people will go to for one another. Supportive, hilariously kindred, and deeply in love, there's a realistic magic in Ben and Leslie's relationship that always grows more compelling over time.

Monica Geller and Chandler Bing (Friends)

There's plenty of drama where relationships are concerned in Friends, but the love story that quietly blooms between Monica Geller and Chandler Bing results in one of the most gorgeous accounts of the friends-to-lovers trope. (And a sprinkle of the whole best friend's little sister.) While couples make up and break up an exhausting number of times during the show's 10-season run, Monica and Chandler prove that finding a partner is all about learning how to communicate, unwavering loyalty, and a love that stands through every trial. It's hard to imagine what the show would be without their steady adoration taking us through various narrative points during the season.

Amy Santiago and Jake Peralta (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a riveting masterpiece for its acute awareness of the times, for its effortless inclusivity, and for the inevitable romance that comes to life through Jake Peralta and Amy Santiago. Polar opposites in more ways than one, fans spend the first couple of seasons watching them go head-to-head with competition, only to watch that banter seamlessly lead to a relationship that underscores why it's important for couples to challenge one another. When they finally get together, Jake and Amy become each other's most significant cheerleaders as they encourage one another to go for bigger and better things in their field while ceaselessly loving each other through everything.

Eleanor Shellstrop and Chidi Anagonye (The Good Place)

The Good Place's titular heaven turns out to be the bad place, but every little thing that develops in the afterlife for these characters turns out to be the best thing they've ever experienced. As yet another pair of opposites attract, Eleanor and Chidi shouldn't exactly work out as a couple, and yet, all their cracked edges fit together perfectly. As characters who both need to find ways to evolve in order to eventually leave their purgatory, much of what they discover in one another allows them to find something even better than they were looking for, which also plays into the soulmates theory that countless romance fans adore. 

David Rose and Patrick Brewer (Schitt’s Creek)

During the first season of Schitt's Creek, it's impossible to think that any member of the Rose family could settle down and find love. Yet, that's largely where the show's beauty lies, and when David Rose meets Patrick Brewer, there's magic in the wildly strange small town. David and Patrick take what begins as a working relationship and develop one of the most wholesome friendships that then grows into love in a way that's deeply rewarding. Throughout the series' relatively short run, we watch the two of them bring out the best in each other so adorably that they make every romantic trope feel utterly unique (like being serenaded).

Janine Teagues and Gregory Eddie (Abbott Elementary)

In a list of many opposites, Abbott Elementary’s Janine and Gregory are two peas in a pod—made for each other. The two of them initially connect as teachers because they’re both slightly nerdier than their coworkers (Jacob Hill, not included), but it’s their careful means of checking in on each other throughout the course of the show where their friendship develops into something bigger. Now, as a couple, their relationship is an added balm in a show that’s already brimming with wholesome charm and a sweet approach to a setting we don’t often see on our screens. 

Nick Miller and Jess Day (New Girl)

Like in Friends, it was inevitable that we'd eventually watch pairings fall in love in New Girl's apartment 4D. It was also easy to predict that Nick Miller and Jess Day would end up together, given the trajectory of their meeting and how their friendship blooms from a lingering annoyance that never quite leaves either of them. Nick and Jess are nothing alike, and yet, they're perfectly suited for one another on a wildly emotional level where it's clear that they're both capable of cracking themselves wide open for the ones they love. 

Winston Schmidt and Cece Parekh (New Girl)

Like Nick and Jess, Cece and Schmidt getting together was inevitable on New Girl. But interestingly, theirs may be the most memorable story because of how it all begins and follows the "he falls first" trope to the T. He said he was going to marry her, and he did. Plus, in Season 7, their daughter is quite literally the entire reason why it's the show's best season yet. Cece and Schmidt share similar morals in their work ethics, but what ultimately made their relationship so endearing was watching them push through every barrier that stood in their way to underscore that they could appreciate and respect each other's different cultural upbringings to create something new and beautiful together. 

Amy Sosa and Jonah Simms (Superstore)

From the very first episode of Superstore, when Jonah fills the Cloud 9 ceiling with stars, it was obvious that Amy Sosa and Jonah Simms would eventually get together. As far as workplace romances go, theirs is one of the most adorable ones to date. Both hard-working and deeply caring, Amy and Jonah's slow-burn relationship came with a number of trials during the show's run, but in the end, their adoration and loyalty to each other proved to be the lasting treasure they found in a mediocre job. 

Pam Beesly and Jim Halpert (The Office)

The Office is known for many things, like Michael Scott's wildly hilarious antics, but it's also renowned for doing the best job of taking on the office workplace romance trope. No power imbalance or anything of the sort, Jim and Pam were just two lonely people who found in each other a best friend who's willing to remember everything about them. With every look they shared and every milestone moment viewers watched on-screen, Jim and Pam's relationship remains one that's still sweet to look back on. 

Where To Watch The 10 Most Memorable Sitcom Couples Online

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences! 

Superman is making a comeback on the big screen with James Gunn’s Superman, the first solo film for the iconic DC hero since Man of Steel. While Superman is a vital component of DC’s cinematic universe, some of his best iterations have actually been on the small screen.

The small screen offers viewers a chance to dive deeper into Superman, often providing not just superhero action but also unique explorations of who Clark Kent is, both as a hero and a person. Viewers can use our guide to discover where to watch the best live-action shows featuring Superman on platforms like Max, Hulu, and others.

Superman & Lois (2021-2024)

Superman & Lois follows Clark Kent (Tyler Hoechlin) and Lois Lane (Bitsie Tulloch), who move to Smallville with their two teenage sons. However, the town is brimming with superhuman activity, and Kent finds himself torn between his responsibilities as a father and husband and his responsibilities as Superman. Superman & Lois is the only live-action Superman project to explore Kent in middle age as a father and husband, revealing sides of the character viewers never thought they’d see. Additionally, Hoechlin’s performance and the show’s dazzling fight scenes featuring DC characters from Onomatopoeia to Doomsday are borderline cinematic, making Superman & Lois by far the most sophisticated Superman series.

Smallville (2001-2011)

Smallville offers another unique take on Superman, centering on Clark Kent (Tom Welling) as a teenager growing up in Smallville while navigating his superhero abilities. The show tracks Kent from high school into young adulthood and his early years working at the Daily Planet with Lois Lane (Erica Durance). Smallville strikes a nice balance between a teen drama and a superhero series. It offers a fantastic iteration of multiple iconic Superman characters, with some fans still hailing Michael Rosenbaum as the best iteration of Lex Luthor ever. Additionally, the teen drama aspect helps delve deeper into Superman’s origin and the source of his heart and spirit.

Supergirl (2015-2021)

Set in the Arrowverse, Supergirl follows Superman’s (Hoechlin) cousin, Kara Zor-El (Melissa Benoist), who has hidden her powers for most of her life. However, when she accidentally reveals her secret, she finds herself embracing her power and Supergirl identity as National City looks to her for protection. While not centered wholly on Superman, Supergirl is the perfect live-action TV show for fans who want to get to know his family and are interested in a feminine take on the hero. Benoist shines as the brave, powerful, and self-assured Supergirl, while Hoechlin boasts several exciting appearances as Superman. It’s the perfect Superman show for the whole family.

Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (1993-1997)

Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman is a Superman series that centers on the relationship between Clark Kent (Dean Cain) and Lois Lane (Teri Hatcher). In the series, Kent adjusts to life in Metropolis and his new career as a reporter at the Daily Planet. However, as he grows closer to fellow reporter Lane, who takes a keen interest in Superman, he finds it increasingly difficult to keep his life as Kent and his life as Superman separate. Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman boasts impeccable casting and embraces its '90s camp, offering a romantic, action-packed, and wildly fun take on Superman.

Superboy (1988-1992)

Before Smallville, Superboy was the first live-action series to delve into the life of young Superman (John Haymes Newton and Gerard Christopher). Superboy follows Kent’s life as a college student at Metropolis University. As he transitions into adulthood, his superhero life evolves as well, as he strives to go from Superboy to Superman. Superboy boasted some of the most groundbreaking effects and wirework for its time and excelled in its exploration of Kent’s relationship with his childhood friend, Lana Lang (Stacy Haiduk). Like Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Superboy boasts a lighthearted tone, nostalgia, and camp.

Adventures of Superman (1952-1958)

Adventures of Superman was the first live-action series centered on the DC hero. Released in 1952, the show follows Clark Kent (George Reeves) as he leads a double life, fighting crime as Superman and reporting on breaking news stories as Kent, alongside his best friends, Lois Lane (Phyllis Coates and Noel Neill) and Jimmy Olsen (Jack Larson). Adventures of Superman is an excellent show, especially in its first season, which almost plays out like a crime drama. At times, the show has a gritty edge, but it always balances this out with humor and action, while Coates and Reeves shine as Lois and Superman.

Where To Watch The Best Live-Action Superman Shows Online

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What many non-geeky English major nerds might not know is that there are more Jane Austen adaptations of her stories than there are full-length novels. From classic limited series to modern retellings like Clueless (1995), the world of Austen is vast and ever-growing. We even have reimaginings of what comes after her stories, like in Death Comes to Pemberley (2013). Years from now, a new generation will continue arguing which Pride and Prejudice adaptation is best and pass it along to others. But Jane Austen isn't just for the English nerds; she's for every romance fan who also yearns for profound character development and platonic relationships woven into the love stories. 

From films about the author herself, like Becoming Jane (2007), to series that touch upon her unfinished work, there's a great deal to appreciate out there. Here are the top 10 absolute must-watch Jane Austen adaptations available on platforms like Prime Video, PBS, and more.

Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Moviegoers recently returned to theaters to watch Matthew MacFadyen's infamous hand flex on the big screen for the 20th anniversary of Joe Wright's Pride and Prejudice, and today, the film has garnered more fans than before. As the perfect gateway into Austen's world, Pride and Prejudice (2005) might just be the ideal way to start. 

For a film that doesn't have as much space to encompass all the important beats in Austen's most revered novel, this adaptation comes pretty close to doing an incredible job. Full of indescribable scenic shots, a gorgeous score from the English Chamber Orchestra and Jean-Yves Thibaudet, beautiful performances from MacFadyen, Keira Knightley, the late and great Donald Sutherland, plus everyone involved, there's magic sprinkled into every corner of the adaptation, making it one that even non-Austen fans can appreciate. 

Pride and Prejudice (1995)

Before Jonathan Bailey's Anthony Bridgerton sprang out of the lake with a wet shirt, Colin Firth made everyone swoon in a similar manner as Mr. Darcy in the 1995 limited series. With more episodes to showcase details from the book, the limited Pride and Prejudice series is a treat from beginning to end as it captures the essence of the novel. 

If this were the only adaptation we'd ever gotten, it would have been enough. While the 2005 glitters as a spectacle, the limited series shines in its meticulous authenticity. From the costumes to the color contrasts in every scene, the series feels like it was made in the Regency era, and for that reason, it'll perpetually remain inimitable. Best suited for viewers who want a near-perfect book-to-screen adaptation, this version is the way to go.

Emma (2009)

As Jane Austen's most complex (and longest) novel, Emma is one that requires an abundance of time with the titular character to understand her idiosyncrasies intimately. She isn't for everybody, but for those who appreciate her, no adaptation handles the story as beautifully as the BBC's limited series, starring Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller, along with the late Michael Gambon as Mr. Woodhouse. 

An exceptional screenplay captures the heart of the text, and an exquisite performance from Garai ensures that Emma is a well-rounded, profoundly layered character whose heart is consistently on display, even as her words fumble. For the viewers who loved Clueless growing up, Emma is the inspiration behind Cher Horowitz's character, so the original is a must-watch in this regard to better appreciate the modern twist. Plus, for the romance fans who typically aren't a fan of the age-gap romance, Emma might just be the story to change your mind.

Northanger Abbey (2007)

Often one of Austen's most underrated novels, Northanger Abbey is for the fans longing for gothic elements in their Regency romance. It's spooky, inherently meta in what it conveys with the notion of reading, and deeply romantic as we watch Felicity Jones' Catherine Morland and JJ Fields' Henry Tilney slowly and quietly fall in love. 

With stunning architecture and scenic shots glazed in muted tones, the cinematography that takes viewers through Bath and the titular estate is especially perfect for non-horror fans who want something cozy during the spooky season. Pair it with heavy rain pounding through the windows, and it's an absolute thrill ride. Short and sweet in its runtime, but thoroughly engaging as a historical romance from beginning to end.

Persuasion (2007)

Persuasion is inarguably Jane Austen's most devastating and heartrending novel, so it's astounding there aren't as many adaptations of it. Still, Adrian Shergold's made-for-TV version is undoubtedly the best one yet. Starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones, the adaptation ensures that viewers feel the weight of the longing that has consistently stretched between Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth. 

As it does this, it also sticks the landing with their reunion at the very end. Nestled in the streets of Bath, Somerset, every emotion is on full display and brought to life with excellent layers in every way. Perfect for viewers who love second chance romances and modern-day films like The Notebook (2004), Persuasion is the must-watch blueprint for such stories.

Sense and Sensibility (1995)

Few film adaptations are as aptly cast as Ang Lee's Sense and Sensibility. Starring Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Imelda Staunton, and more, so much of the reason why the adaptation is among the best is entirely because of the cast. Thompson and Winslet are especially brilliant as they embody the Dashwood sisters in their endeavors, making every beat of the film rewarding, even while we miss out on various content from the book. 

Beautifully shot from start to finish, Sense and Sensibility, like the 1995 Pride and Prejudice, feels as timeless as it looks. Of all Austen books, Sense and Sensibility might not be for viewers who don't appreciate a lot of back and forth between characters, but it's still a fantastic depiction for those who want stories of sisterhood woven into the narrative as well.

Emma (2020)

Autumn de Wilde's bold and colorful adaptation of Emma (2020) might not be for those who prefer extremely accurate book adaptations, but it's a gorgeous transformation that manages to keep the character's essence intact, even while it takes stylistic risks to bring the narrative to life.

With a faultlessly quirky score from Isobel Waller-Bridge and lush, gorgeous costumes, the slightly brighter approach makes the story deeply funny and surprisingly relatable. It also helps that Anya Taylor-Joy delivers an incredible performance from the moment she appears on screen. Perfect for viewers who appreciate fast-paced stories and loads of comedy sprinkled into every scene. 

Emma (1996)

Funnily, there are two adaptations of Emma from 1996, but Gwyneth Paltrow's takes the cake as one that feels richer in how it explores the text and characters. Simultaneously, it stars Ewan McGregor as Frank Churchill and Jeremy Northam as Knightley, as well as a number of recognizable faces, many don't realize have taken on Austen in their filmography. 

Charming, surprisingly hilarious, and well-produced, Emma (1996) is certainly worth watching at least once. It's especially worth it for the viewers who want a relatively authentic version of the text, but don't have the time to sit through a four-part limited series.

Mansfield Park (1999)

Mansfield Park isn't among Austen's popular novels, but the adaptation starring Frances O'Connor as Fanny Price and Jonny Lee Miller as Edmund Bertram is a solid one. It takes the story's most interesting beats and sells a film based on performances alone, which, at times, is more than what we can ask for. 

Legitimately funny and adorably shot, Mansfield Park feels like the one Austen film that can truly be deemed a romantic comedy. However, for viewers who struggle with historical films and peculiar customs like the normalcy of cousins getting married, Mansfield Park might not be the film for you.

Sanditon (2019)

Based on Austen's unfinished novel, Andrew Davies took a number of liberties with Sanditon's three-season run, and for the most part, it's an endearing adaptation because of its cast. While the second and third seasons change course after Theo James' Sidney Parker exits, the series still gives Charlotte Haywood a happy ending and allows each of the characters a better future than their pasts allowed. 

It's surprising that there aren't more series like Sanditon, but for what we've got, it's undoubtedly one worth checking out. Sanditon is best suited for Bridgerton (2020) fans wanting more diversity in their historical shows, and it's also a solid slow burn romance for those who prefer the trope.

M3GAN 2.0 (2025) recently premiered in theaters, marking the expansion of one of the newest killer toy franchises. For decades, killer toys, from puppets to dolls to animatronics, have delighted and terrified audiences with the concept of toys that are uncannily sentient and malevolent.

Viewers intrigued by M3GAN 2.0’s killer AI dolls can use our guide to find the 10 best killer toy movies on platforms like HBO Max, Hulu, and more.

Dead of Night (1945)

Dead of Night is one of the earliest films to feature a killer toy. The 1945 horror anthology film tells the story of ventriloquist Maxwell Frere (Michael Redgrave), who works with a dummy named Hugo, who begins speaking independently. Hugo is a terrifying doll with an eerie, life-like appearance, but the story's true terror comes from Redgrave’s masterful performance as the unraveling Frere, who unsettlingly starts to parallel the doll.

While the story of Hugo captured the audience’s attention, all of the stories in Dead of Night are deliciously chilling. It gives viewers the feel of swapping ghost stories late at night with accomplished storytellers. The classic horror vibes will especially appeal to fans of older horror movies like Diabolique (1996) and Eyes Without a Face (1960).

Dolls (1986)

Dolls follows five strangers who meet by chance after they all seek shelter from a violent thunderstorm in a mansion, only to find it filled with eerie, sinister handmade dolls. The film features a wide array of killer toys, not just dolls, including toy soldier figurines that come to life with functioning weapons. The movie stands out as an intriguing blend of a haunted house and a killer toy horror story that’s bold, eccentric, and incredibly creepy.

Dolls is an excellent choice for viewers who enjoyed the Hugo story in Dead of Night, but wanted a more in-depth exploration of the killer doll premise. However, the movie is a little more eccentric than scary, leaning into oddball characters and dark humor rather than horror. Still, Dolls is unique, paralleling M3GAN (2022) with its darkly comedic and absurd premise and reminiscent of Gremlins (1984) with its lighter horror elements.

Child’s Play (1988)

Child’s Play marks the first film in the Child’s Play franchise. In the movie, Karen Barclay (Catherine Hicks)’s Good Guy doll gift to her son turns into their worst nightmare when the doll, Chucky (Brad Dourif), comes to life and displays murderous tendencies.

Child’s Play established Chucky as one of the most iconic killer toys of all time, creating a slasher star to rival that of Freddy Krueger and Michael Myers, but condensed into doll form and riddled with dark humor. It finds a more delicate balance between humor and horror than Dolls, while capitalizing on the creepiness of its protagonist. The result is a horror movie that is both satisfyingly creepy and wildly fun. Viewers who loved Dolls and M3GAN won’t want to miss Child’s Play.

Puppet Master (1989)

Puppet Master is the first installment of the horror franchise of the same name. The film follows Alex Whitaker (Paul Le Mat), who becomes the target of vicious, sentient marionettes while investigating his friend's death. Puppet Master is a fun, campy killer toy and slasher movie that will terrify viewers with its whole entourage of creepy, miniature puppets. The film also differentiates itself from other killer toy stories with an overarching mystery and multiple puppets boasting distinct personalities.

Puppet Master is more charming than scary. The stop-motion and puppetry work is actually quite cute and amusing, and the set designs are visually appealing. It’s a lot of campy horror fun that draws parallels to Demonic Toys (1992) and Dead Silence (2007), which captivate audiences through their creativity and eccentricity.

Annabelle (2014)

Annabelle is the second installment in The Conjuring franchise and the first to center on Annabelle. In the movie, John Form (Ward Horton) gifts his pregnant wife, Mia (Annabelle Wallis), a beautiful porcelain doll, which they come to believe is haunted. Annabelle is particularly terrifying, considering it’s loosely inspired by the allegedly haunted real-life doll of the same name. 

It’s incredibly creepy, with numerous jump scares and a killer toy that rivals Chucky and M3GAN in its unsettling nature and evil spirit. While there are moments of campiness, Annabelle is a bit more serious than Dolls and Puppet Master, delivering genuine tension and jump scares that will get under all but the most seasoned horror fans’ skin. If you love movies with a sinister, haunted feel, such as The Conjuring (2013) and The Amityville Horror (2005), you’ll love Annabelle.

The Boy (2016)

The Boy tells the story of Greta (Lauren Cohan), who accepts a position as a nanny for a doll and begins to suspect it could be real. It’s a unique killer toy story made eerier by the fact that the doll only moves when one isn’t looking at it. It’s one of the oddest killer toy movies, featuring a creepy atmosphere and a shocking twist that viewers won’t see coming.

Viewers are likely to have mixed feelings about the twist ending. However, regardless of whether it makes or ruins the movie, most of the film succeeds in being delightfully weird, creative, and unsettling. It is reminiscent of Servant (2019) due to its premise of a doll that’s treated as human, but also parallels Orphan (2009) and Eli (2019) through its dark and unexpected nature.

Cult of Chucky (2017)

Cult of Chucky is the seventh installment in the Child’s Play franchise and features the return of Chucky, who seeks out his former victim, Nica (Fiona Dourif), as he tries to extend his reign of terror. The movie comes the closest to reviving the magic of the original film, given its over-the-top premise and blend of horror and comedy. It boasts some of the best kills and twists of the entire franchise and gives fans of Chucky a worthy expansion of his lore.

Fans of the franchise will especially appreciate the nods to the earlier films, especially in the return of Nica and Andy Barclay (Alex Vincent). However, it sets itself apart with an even wilder premise that takes the franchise in a new and exciting direction. Cult of Chucky is a must-see for Child’s Play fans.

M3GAN (2022)

M3GAN tells the story of roboticist Gemma (Allison Williams), who develops an AI doll named M3GAN that becomes self-aware and goes to extreme lengths to protect her owner. M3GAN is one of the most refreshing killer toy movies. While it boasts the typical humor and campiness of the killer toy trope, it also modernizes it by delving into the growing paranoia and concerns surrounding AI development. 

M3GAN is also one of the most unsettling AI toys, as her appearance and mannerisms parallel those of both a little girl and a robot. The film also leans into absurdity, as the only thing more amusing and weird than a toy terrorizing humans is a toy that looks like a little girl, but stirs the uncanny valley effect. M3GAN is just as entertaining as Child’s Play, but boasts even more dark humor and eccentricity.

Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023)

Five Nights at Freddy’s is a film adaptation of the beloved horror video game series of the same name. It follows Mike Schmidt (Josh Hutcherson), who picks up a nighttime shift as a security guard at an abandoned pizzeria restaurant, only to find the restaurant’s defunct animatronics come to life at night. Five Nights at Freddy’s masterfully pulls at the subconscious fear most have of uncanny animatronic mascots, turning Freddy Fazbear, Bonnie, Chica, Foxy, and Mr. Cupcake into horror icons. 

With a subtle creepiness and a multitude of clever nods to the franchise, Five Nights at Freddy’s is one of the most fun killer toy movies for viewers to enjoy. While the film’s high level of fan service means gamers will love it, it’s strange, dark, and fun enough to appeal to newcomers as well. If you enjoyed the M3GAN movies, you’ll definitely want to check out this fun, amusing, and unsettling movie.

M3GAN 2.0 (2025)

M3GAN 2.0 is the sequel to M3GAN, in which Gemma and Cady learn of another AI threat from a rogue military android, AMELIA (Ivanna Sakhno). The sequel delves even deeper into AI advancement and the cybersecurity industry than the last movie, while amping up its action with two killer dolls and an epic battle of AI vs. AI. The film leans more toward action than horror, but it works well, allowing its eccentric premise, creepy dolls, and dark humor to shine.

M3GAN 2.0’s unexpected, more action-packed and humorous premise may result in less horror, but also allows it to differentiate itself and offer something new to the franchise. Then, there’s always the absurdity and uncanny valley effect to add just enough creepiness to unsettle viewers. Fans of the original movie will be pleasantly surprised by just how distinct and entertaining M3GAN 2.0 is. 

When a movie is deemed unsuitable for audiences, it can be banned. There are lots of reasons why movies get banned, from the use of unsimulated sex to graphic content and sometimes just the pure disturbing nature of the film. Luckily for viewers, in the modern era of streaming and digital rentals, it's become increasingly hard to outright ban a movie because there are so many ways to release films without having to deal with regulatory bodies like the MPA (Motion Picture Association), which is who applies ratings like PG, PG-13, and R.

The horror genre is especially notorious for getting banned, for obvious reasons. Gore, torture, macabre…it’s all ripe for controversy, especially among the conservative-leaning regulatory agencies like the MPA, which is loaded with its own controversies thanks to its biased viewpoints. (Check out This Film is Not Yet Rated for more on that). But how do movies get banned? There’s a few ways…

How Movies Get Banned

Full Ban

Sometimes, a movie can be deemed so obscene that local or national governments will flat-out declare that the movie is not allowed to screen in their region. These types of bans are still very common in areas like China and the Middle East.

MPA Refuses to Rate

Sometimes the MPA will reject a film, or a filmmaker will understand that their movie is going to be rejected by the MPA, so they don’t even try. Oftentimes, this will happen to movies that use unsimulated sex, like Shortbus and Antichrist. But other films like The Human Centipede also released as “Unrated.” When a film is unrated, major theaters won’t screen it, and the small indie ones that do have to make the screenings 18+ and normally won’t screen them before midnight. This effectively bans a movie because it reduces its release to just a handful of theaters at midnight screenings. 

NC-17 Becomes a Deathblow

The harshest MPA rating is NC-17, which means no one under 17 is admitted. However, culturally (especially for older people), NC-17 has a connotation with pornography, and, therefore, all major theater chains refuse to screen NC-17 movies. Countless films have had to be re-edited to obtain an R-rating instead of an NC-17 because studios know that an NC-17 rating essentially bans a movie. Sausage Party, Scream, and House of 1000 Corpses are examples of movies that had to delete content in order to get an R-rating. 

10 Horror Movies That Were Banned

From undeniable classics to questionable releases, here are the 10 most controversial banned horror movies of all time and where to find them on streaming.  

Wolf Creek (2005)

One of Australia’s most notable horror films is Wolf Creek. The movie gained international praise and became so popular it even earned a wide release in America. The film follows Mick Taylor, a serial killer who stalks the outback waiting for vulnerable travelers that he then tortures and kills. The movie was touted as a true story, which eventually led to its ban in Australia’s Northern Territory. 

The reason for the ban was because one of the real killers Wolf Creek was based on, Bradley John Murdoch, was in the middle of his murder trial when the film premiered. According to ABC News, a Chief Justice ordered the ban, fearing that the movie would impact Murdoch’s “chances of getting a fair trial.” Murdoch was eventually deemed guilty of rape and murder and sentenced to life in prison. 

The Hunt (2020)

The Hunt was originally slated for release in 2019 and preyed upon the growing divide in America, especially the conservative narrative that they are the victims of some sort of woke cabal of shadowy elites. In the film, a group of Elites capture and hunt Deplorables for sport. However, before the film’s September 2019 premiere, two politically-motivated mass shootings took place in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio. With The Hunt already gaining negative publicity, these two events forced the Universal Pictures to pull the movie. 

In March 2020, Blumhouse decided to finally release the film, this time even using January 6 and The Hunt’s first cancellation as selling points to help build notoriety. But ultimately, the movie got what it deserved. Released on March 13, 2020, The Hunt premiered just in time for the COVID pandemic to shuttered theaters around the country, turning the movie into a box office bomb. On a $14 million budget, The Hunt only made a little over $10 million worldwide.  

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

All horror fans know The Texas Chain Saw Massacree. Inspired by the real serial killer Ed Gein, the movie follows a group of young travelers who are pursued by the cannibalistic, skin-wearing, chainsaw-wielding killer known as Leatherface. Filmed in the grindhouse style and loaded with an overbearing sense of sadism and macabre, the movie is downright disturbing. So much so that it was banned from theatrical release in numerous countries around the world. The Yorkshire Post reports that for decades, the movie was banned in the UK, Australia, Ireland, and West Germany, among others.

Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III (1990)

In 1990, the MPA (then called the MPAA) was in the process of switching out the X rating for NC-17. X was originally assigned to theatrical movies that were not suitable for children, but throughout the ’80s, it started being associated with porn. As the rating became more notorious (especially during the ultra-conservative Reagan years), cinemas stopped screening movies that were rated X, fearing that audiences would view them as adult theaters. 

To help clear up the difference between porn and mature filmmaking, the MPAA swapped X for NC-17…but sadly, the damage was already done and the stigma was already there, instantly turning the NC-17 rating into death knell for any film that had it. Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III was released during this transition and was originally given an X rating. (Fun fact: It was the last film to ever be rated X). Because getting an X rating in 1990 meant your film would be banned from theaters, the filmmakers had to rework large chunks of the movie. Bloody Disgusting reports that to work the movie down to an R, it had to go through extensive cuts and reshoots. 

The Human Centipede 2 (2011)

2010’s The Human Centipede shocked audiences and was so graphic that it released “unrated,” screening only at select cinemas around the country at midnight showings. In the movie, a mad scientist wants to create a “human centipede” by sewing three people together. Taking things even further was The Human Centipede 2, which sees a disturbed superfan try to create a real human centipede. 

The movie is loaded with rape, violence, and body mutilation. Like the first, it was released Unrated in America and was banned in various countries, like the UK and Australia. According to the New Zealand Herald, because of its ban in Australia, the film’s distributors said they “wouldn’t bother” even attempting to release the movie in New Zealand.

Cruising (1980)

1980’s Cruising was banned in multiple ways. The film is loosely based on the 1970 novel of the same name and follows a detective (Al Pacino) who is trying to track down a serial killer that’s targeting gay men, specifically gay men in the leather scene. From the start, Cruising had problems. Director William Friedkin filmed extensive amounts of sex scenes and nudity. So much so that the MPA originally wanted to slap the film with an X rating. To spare the movie from financial ruin, Friedkin had to delete 40 minutes (yes, 40 minutes!) of graphic footage just to get the film down to an R-rating. In 2013, James Franco made the movie Interior. Leather Bar., a meta film that attempted to recreate those lost 40 minutes. 

Still, Cruising’s problems weren’t done yet. Being 1980, conservatives hated the film for centering on the gay community, and many protested its release. Even worse, the gay community also hated the movie for its portrayal of gay men as BDSM-obsessed, leather-clad fetish fiends who get murdered. Protests erupted in New York during filming, and theaters dropped their scheduled showings because of demonstrations in San Francisco. According to SF Gate, then-mayor Diane Feinstein even personally asked production company United Artists to not screen the movie in San Francisco at all. 

Cannibal Holocaust (1980)

Easily the most notorious example of a banned movie is Cannibal Holocaust. The movie was marketed as “found footage” and reported to show a documentary crew that travels to the Amazon to harass and murder natives to create “better” documentary footage. But as they get more aggressive, the natives fight back, leading to absolute bloodshed. 

The movie was controversial because many thought it was a snuff film that showed real people being murdered. In fact, in Italy, the movie was banned by the government, and director Ruggero Deodato was put on trial for murder, with many thinking the deaths in the film were real. It was also banned in countries like the UK, Norway, and Singapore, among others. What needs to be noted is that, while no humans were really killed in the movie, the film does depict the real murders of numerous animals, which has raised its own controversies throughout the years. 

Terrifier 3 (2024)

There’s a few common rules in horror: Don’t mess with kids, animals, or pregnant women. In 2024, Terrifier 3 broke the first rule with its wild opening scene, where Art the Clown returns to cause havoc once more. While nowhere near as disturbing as the other films on this list, the film’s heavy amount of gore and its already-notorious opening scene were too much for many viewers. 

Not only did people walk out of Terrifier 3’s UK premiere, but it was banned in France. The film received the rarely-used 18+ rating, which essentially kills a movie by deterring theaters from screening it. In fact, Bloody Disgusting reports that Terrifier 3 was the first time France used the rating since 2006’s Saw III. In an interview with Empire, Art the Clown actor David Howard Thornton even admitted there were a few scenes in the movie that made him nauseous while filming. 

I Spit On Your Grave (1978)

I Spit On Your Grave continues to be one of the most controversial films ever made. The movie follows a young girl named Jennifer Hills who is violently raped by a group of men and left to die. Little do they know she actually survives and then hunts them down one by one. Since its premiere almost 50 years ago, the film continues to ignite debates about whether it's a story of empowerment or exploitation. 

Censors around the world saw it as exploitation. It was banned in countries like Iceland, Canada, and Norway. It also remained banned for decades in the UK and Ireland. In fact, when the filmmakers tried to release a DVD version of the film in 2010, Ireland re-banned it once again. The movie was also re-banned in the UK in 2022, with censors demanding over 7 minutes of cuts for it to get a release. 

Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986…and also 1990)

Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer wasn’t just banned, it struggled to even find anyone willing to distribute it. The film follows a serial killer on a rampage through Chicago, who, at one point, even gets his friend to join him in his murder spree. Henry originally premiered at the Chicago Film Festival in 1986 where it immediately caused controversy for its depictions of murder and rape. 

The movie was so controversial and disturbing that it couldn't even find a distributor until 1990, a whole four years later. And just like with Leatherface…1990 was a weird year for controversial movies because the MPAA was in the middle of swapping the X rating for NC-17. Henry was given the outdated X rating, which the filmmakers knew meant it wouldn’t be screened in most theaters. Instead, they decided to release the movie Unrated. 

In the UK, the film was banned even longer until 1992. To make the movie acceptable, not only was footage cut, but the BBFC (the UK’s ratings organization) actually went in and re-edited footage, which caused its own controversy about who has the right to edit an artist’s work. 

Where To Watch The Most Controversial Banned Horror Movies Online

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At the 73rd annual Emmy Awards, Hannah Waddingham ended her winning speech with the words, "West End actors need to be on screen more," and she had an unquestionable point, as proven by Jonathan Bailey's triple-threat star power. Previously known for smaller guest appearances or brief roles, like in Broadchurch, Bailey began stealing hearts from the moment he donned Anthony Bridgerton's mutton chops in the first season of Bridgerton. Then he fell into the lake during Season 2 and became the Internet's Regency boyfriend. Cast him in one of the most popular musicals of all time, and there's no stopping the actor's magnetism while viewers now eagerly wait to see more of Prince Fiyero in Wicked: For Good.

From guest appearances in renowned British sci-fi series like Doctor Who to the latest nerdy paleontologist in Jurassic World Rebirth, here are the best Jonathan Bailey movies and TV shows on platforms like Netflix, Peacock, and more.

Bridgerton (2020-Present)

Jonathan Bailey's performance in the hit Regency romance Bridgerton is, thus far, his strongest work to date. How he takes the eldest viscount and known rake to a man utterly besotted is no small feat, but it's what Bailey accomplishes in the quiet moments that are indescribable. As the eldest of eight siblings who lost his father at 18 and essentially became the man of the house, Anthony grapples with more than he lets on. 

Concealing every ounce of his anxiety and frustration by masking his pain through sardonic approaches, Jonathan Bailey meticulously weaves in heart and profound inner emotions into every scene, ensuring that Anthony Bridgerton remains a deeply layered character. Bridgerton is perfect for viewers who want an anthology historical romance series with new and incredible couples shining in every season.

Wicked (2024)

Jon M. Chu's triumphant adaptation of the Broadway production undoubtedly proves that Jonathan Bailey is indeed a triple threat. He can act, he can dance, and he can sing. What more could we want? Elphaba and Glinda might be the most recognized faces of Wicked, but Prince Fiyero's role is also vital. Though we don't dig into all the emotional character nuances in Part 1, Bailey still shows us plenty, stealing every scene he's in with the type of charming ease that's so endearing that it's straight up overwhelming. 

His standout performance in the "Dancing Through Life" number is one still worth watching for an immediate serotonin boost. Whether you're a Broadway fan or not, Wicked is the type of gorgeously colorful musical that's worth watching for anyone wanting to see impeccable performances throughout.

Fellow Travelers (2023)

Heartwarming, heartbreaking, and utterly compelling, Showtime's Fellow Travelers landed both Jonathan Bailey and Matt Bomer a number of award nominations, rewarding the beautiful chemistry viewers watched unfold on screen. As a romantic political thriller set in a time when LGBTQIA+ relationships weren't legal, Bailey and Bomer play two men in love with a secret romance that spans decades. 

While the series doesn't end with the type of happy ending most viewers wished for, from beginning to end, Bailey brought his A-game, playing the type of character he hadn't yet embodied and with a fantastic American accent, too. The series is an undeniable must-watch for anyone wanting a compelling love story, but for the viewers who aren't in the headspace for heartbreak, hold off until you are. 

Jurassic World Rebirth (2025)

Jonathan Bailey's role as paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis is for the nerds. Dorky, hilarious, and completely awe-struck throughout the latest sci-fi thriller, Bailey brings to life the most wholesome performance in the franchise. Every time he's on screen, it's impossible not to giggle and kick your feet. Pairing the boyish wonder with the heart of a genuinely good man whose presence brings innate goodness into the story makes the entire viewing experience more heartfelt than it could have been. 

Completely different from any other role he's played, through Jurassic World Rebirth, Bailey proves that his range is boundless. For original Jurassic Park purists who are expecting something similar, Jurassic World Rebirth isn't it, but for those who appreciate golden retriever characters, then Jonathan Bailey's character is enough reason to dive right in.

Crashing (2016)

Before there was Fleabag, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Jonathan Bailey were chaotic (and deeply relatable) human disasters living in a rundown apartment—abandoned hospital, if we're to get technical—in Crashing (2016). As one of his first mainstream-ish roles, Bailey plays an endearing troublemaker who grows closer to another man named Fred throughout the limited series. 

Quintessentially British, hilariously wholesome, and well-written, Bailey's role adds depth, nuance, and a solid amount of humor to the series. Viewers who loved Fleabag are sure to appreciate Crashing, but for the fans of more wholesome, lighthearted comedies, the series might not be as easy to get into.

Broadchurch (2013-2017)

The fascinating thing about British stars and actors is how often their paths cross in procedural dramas. Funnily, Jonathan Bailey's Bridgerton co-star Simone Ashley also made a guest appearance in Broadchurch, but she and Bailey sadly didn't share scenes during their runs. 

Bailey's brief role as journalist Olly Stevens was undoubtedly a memorable one. Sharing scenes with legends like David Tennant and Olivia Coleman, Bailey consistently proved his range and ability to embody any role with a profound understanding of the character, though he was younger at the time. Broadchurch is essential viewing for fans of British crime dramas, and it's especially great for those who want something that feels like a classic.

Leonardo (2011-2012) 

Inspired by the painter, Leonardo is a short-lived British comedy starring Jonathan Bailey, Flora Spencer-Longhurst, Colin Ryan, Akemnji Ndifornyen, James Cuningham, and more in a reimagining of sorts set in Florence. A bit similar to shows like The Great (2020) and perhaps even My Lady Jane (2024, but without the romance), Leonardo is a clever portrayal of history.

While younger at the time, Bailey's endearing and sweet performance still manages to make the series a treat for anyone who's a fan of action-packed adventure films with twists on history.

Gone are the days where The Bachelor reigned supreme as the one and only reality TV dating show. These days, no matter what your flavor of drama is, there’s likely one show that brings you exactly what you want. The Ultimatum is perhaps one of the most popular reality TV dating shows, thanks to a very unique premise. It brings together a couple where one half wants to get married, and the other one isn’t sure. Both people then agree to go on a trial marriage with a new partner, and then a trial marriage with their original partner to find out if they really want marriage, or not. Kinda out there, even for reality TV.

If you want to immerse yourself in the world of Netflix’s hit reality show, here’s how to watch The Ultimatum in order, and what else you might enjoy after you’re done.

The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On (2022-present)

The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On is the original show that brought couples together to figure out if they really wanted to marry each other or not by doing the one thing you probably should not do: give your partner an ultimatum. Hosted by Nick and Vanessa Lachey, the show features an introduction to the couples, then a dating period after when they all “break up” with their original partner and date others, followed by a ceremony where everyone chooses another couple for a “trial marriage.” After that trial marriage is over, everyone returns to their original partner for another trial marriage. Finally, the couples come together to either get engaged, leave with the new person they found, or break up for good. Oh, and, of course, there’s a reunion so we can check in and see who’s still together. There’s been three seasons of the show so far. 

The Ultimatum: Queer Love (2023-present)

A queer version of the same show, hosted by JoAnna Garcia Swisher, better known for Sweet Magnolias, has had two full seasons so far and even more drama than the original. Everything goes pretty much the same as the original version, but there’s the added drama of The Ultimatum: Queer Love dealing head on with the queer experience, which adds a different wrinkle to it. It’s not always about whether people want to get married or not in this one, but about external pressures, acceptance from their families, and what it means to take that step as a queer person. Expect deeper conversations in The Ultimatum: Queer Love, even if the format is the same. 

The Ultimatum: France (2022-present)

Every successful reality show needs an international version or five! The Ultimatum: France is the first international version of the reality TV show, and it works a little differently than the US versions. For one, there’s no physical host. Instead, the show uses a voiceover that provides instructions or narration—very common in France but somewhat jarring if you’re used to someone sitting and speaking to the contestants. But the rest of the show goes pretty much the same, with the only difference being that it’s in French and that despite the fact that the issues why people want or not want to marry each other are universal, the cultural differences are still very obvious. Great for anyone who just likes the format and wants more. 

The Ultimatum: South Africa (2024-present)

The latest international version, The Ultimatum: South Africa brings the show to Africa and provides us with a different cultural background just as it puts the couples in exactly the same spot as all the other versions. Someone wants to get married, someone doesn’t, and the rest is a little bit of manufactured drama that everyone is eating up. Hosted by celebrity couple Salamina Mosese and Tshepo "Howza" Mosese, this is a perfect version for those looking for something different that doesn’t actually shake up the franchise, but that also doesn’t feel like the exact same thing we’ve watched before. 

The Reality TV Dating Shows Don’t End There

If you got sucked into the world of reality TV dating shows, there are a lot of others that might be just the thing you’re looking for if you’re trying to strike the balance between drama and couples finding real love. There’s Love Is Blind, where couples have to commit to marriage before they can see each other. Then there’s Temptation Island, where a couple goes into an island where they will be separated and “tempted” by multiple other people to see if their relationship can survive. And there’s Perfect Match, which brings together contestants from various other reality shows for a second chance at love. One thing is for sure, you don’t have to stop at The Ultimatum.

Where To Watch 'The Ultimatum' In Order Online 

To discover more about The Ultimatum and other reality TV dating shows currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

Superman's enduring legacy lies in his Kryptonian super strength and human upbringing, but it has also been largely influenced by the women who have played Daily Planet reporter Lois Lane. Each version of the character brought something exciting and new to the franchise, and even though Lois has changed with the times, she has always been rooted in the spirit of courage and curiosity that was created in the pages of DC Comics.

Featured across multiple movies, series, and even animation, every version of Lois has not just resonated in their era but with fans who love her as fiercely as they love Superman. With Rachel Brosnahan taking on the role in James Gunns' Superman, this list dives into her some of her predecessors' stories and explains what makes the best versions of Lois Lane worthy of standing alongside the Man of Steel.

Margot Kidder

Margot Kidder's Lois is a no-nonsense investigative journalist working at the Daily Planet who is determined to scoop stories before anyone else, especially when those stories involve Superman. In the first Superman movie, she chases leads from Metropolis car chases to arctic scoops, eventually partnering (and clashing) with Clark Kent. In Superman II, Lois discovers Superman's identity. Her scenes range from snappy newsroom banter to moments of vulnerability, which offer a grounding element to the plot and add to the stakes in the Man of Steel's battle with Zod.

Although her screen time was drastically reduced in Superman III, Kidder still delivered on Lois' trademark grit, bookending the film with a sense of independence and a hint of romantic distance from the superhero, which offered a nice contrast to Lana Lang's role in Clark's life. Lois returned to the spotlight in Superman IV: The Quest for Peace, rekindling her dynamic with Clark. She served as a confidante and moral compass for Superman as he tried to rid the world of nuclear weapons. The movie was a critical failure, but Kidder's performance stood out as one of its redeeming elements. Her work across all four films is widely regarded as the benchmark for all who followed.

Kate Bosworth

Kate Bosworth's Lois is introduced as a widowed mother of a young son in Superman Returns, with the character balancing grief and ambition as she works on investigative stories at the Daily Planet. Superman comes back to Metropolis after five years, only to find Lois has moved on emotionally and professionally. Her arc centers on reconciling what she's built in his absence with what he brings back to the world. Though some critics said she lacked the gravitas of Kidder, Bosworth gave her Lois an emotional fragility that suited the plot's tone of nostalgia and loss. She is the emotional anchor of the film, torn between duty, love, and legacy, making for poignant scenes that earned her a positive reception from fans who appreciated her quiet strengths, even if mainstream reviews were mixed.

Amy Adams

Amy Adams' portrayal introduces Lois as a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist on assignment in the Arctic, where she accidentally runs into a cryptic, super-powered Clark Kent. Throughout Man of Steel, Lois pieces together his Kryptonian origin story while exposing global conspiracies and humanizing Superman's myth. In Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Lois isn't just a love interest for Clark. She is the personification of resilience in the face of world-ending politics and becomes an essential player in exposing Lex Luthor's evil plans while bringing the film's moral conflicts into focus. As a result, critics and fans consistently point to her performance as a highlight amid criticism of the films themselves. Adams also had a small but important role in Justice League.

Teri Hatcher

In the 1993 television series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Terri Hatcher plays the ambitious reporter whose rivalry with Clark Kent escalates into mutual attraction even though she prefers the man in the red and blue cape. Each episode blended investigative journalism with personal relationships and lighthearted action. Hatcher played the Daily Planet reporter with vulnerability, a touch of snark, and heartfelt sincerity, which basically transformed a potentially antagonistic relationship between the titular couple into a very cute love story. Critics praised her comic-romantic timing, and the show earned a cult following for its chemistry and charm. Hatcher's Lois helped redefine the superhero genre as character-driven and emotionally adventurous and is still celebrated decades later.

Erica Durance

Erica Durance's Lois bursts onto the scene, uncovering family secrets in Smallville. Over the years, viewers followed her transition from street-smart freelancer to ace reporter for the Daily Planet. She partners with Clark to craft his public persona as Superman, goes undercover against military and alien threats, and engages in the iconic slow-burn romance that leads to an engagement. Durance's portrayal can only be described as fearless and loyal, while her arc, from skeptic outsider to Clark's equal and journalistic partner, was a hit with fans. Her contribution to the plotlines, ranging from undercover infiltration to personal sacrifice, made this Lois an active protagonist in her own right.

Elizabeth Tulloch

In Superman & Lois, Elizabeth Tulloch's Lois Lane returns to Smallville with Clark and their teen sons, stepping into a dual role as a career journalist and mother navigating a world of metahuman threats. Early episodes see Lois covering topical stories while fighting for normalcy in her everyday family life. The emotionally charged third season arc crescendos around Lois' diagnosis with cancer, ushering in some of the most nuanced human storytelling in superhero television. That plot challenged Tulloch's character and Clark, illustrating that some battles (even for Superman) are un-fixable with superpowers. Critics and fans praised Tulloch for blending emotion with journalistic bravery, making her journey as Lois inspiring and deeply relatable.

Dana Delany

Dana Delany voiced Lois across 54 episodes of Superman: The Animated Series, weaving her through high-stakes investigative plots involving Brainiac, Darkseid, climate crises, and Superman's personal dilemmas. Delany's wry and tenacious voice work allowed viewers to feel her character's internal stakes and fierce devotion to the truth. Critics often celebrate her as the gold standard in animated Lois portrayals, citing her dialogue as "sophisticated and sharp." Fans recall her voice as the definitive embodiment of the character.

Where To Watch The Best Versions of Lois Lane In Movies And TV Online 

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

The obsession with soccer isn’t new—even if the upcoming World Cup and the Club World Cup have made people in the US pay even more attention to a sport that is way more popular outside of our borders. Proof positive of that is the amount of soccer-themed shows and movies, and the fact that one of the most popular anime from the ’80s was Captain Tsubasa, a soccer based anime.

With multiple shows, movies and OVA’s, and a protagonist that grows with the show, it’s important to know the right order. So, what order should you watch Captain Tsubasa in? We’ve got the answer.

Captain Tsubasa (1983-1986)

The series that started it all, Captain Tsubasa focuses on Tsubasa Oozora, a Japanese kid who just so happens to be very good at soccer. The series chronicles how Tsubasa trains and competes, as well as the friends he makes in the world of soccer and his opponents. Heavily focused on the actual matches, the show is notorious for taking episodes to show the outcome of games. The series was beloved in Japan, where it gave kids and adults alike a new passion for the sport, and outside of Japan, where it was very well received for its heavy focus on the actual sport.

Captain Tsubasa: The Great European Showdown (1985)

Of course, the story could not just end with the main anime. Instead, multiple movies were released during the original run of the show, starting with Captain Tsubasa: The Great European Showdown. This movie is set right after the end of the elementary school portion of the main series and serves as the foundation for the U-13 International Tournament arc. Notorious for being the movie that introduces a lot of players outside of the Japanese team we’ve followed for most of the show, players we will see again in most cases.

Captain Tsubasa: Danger! All Japan Jr. (1985)

Captain Tsubasa: Danger! All Japan Jr. serves as a direct sequel to Captain Tsubasa: The Great European Showdown and sees the European players we met in the previous movie looking for their chance at revenge against the Japanese team after their earlier victory. This will be the norm for a lot of these movies, and indeed, a lot of the upcoming shows. One team wins, the other will look for a rematch and so on and so on. This is, after all, a show about soccer. There’s always another game to be played. 

Captain Tsubasa: Run Towards Tomorrow! (1986)

In some ways a direct follow up to the 1983 anime, and in others, a movie filled with flashbacks to things that happened before, Captain Tsubasa: Run Towards Tomorrow! is very typical of the franchise. Not a lot happens, but we get to spend some time with the players we have, at this point, followed for two movies and an entire series, so it’s still a must for fans of Captain Tsubasa and its characters. Past the middle point, it advances the plot a little bit, with Oliver not playing at his best, and the Japan youth starting training camp sessions.

Captain Tsubasa: World Great Battle! Jr. World Cup (1986)

If Japan ever dreamed of being successful in soccer, it was likely because of the high expectations set by Captain Tsubasa. Captain Tsubasa: World Great Battle! Jr. World Cup serves as the end of the original anime era and sees the typical Japan vs. Europe match turn into an intercontinental world cup that now involves the United States youth team and South America youth team. We won’t spoil who wins, but let’s just say that there’s a reason we have been following the Japanese side, as they get most of the attention. 

Captain Tsubasa OVAs

Captain Tsubasa, like many other anime, released a couple of OVAs (Original Video Animation) in between some of its other offerings. New Captain Tsubasa (1989-1990) and Captain Tsubasa: The Strongest Opponent! Netherlands Youth (1994) helped bridge the gap between one series and the next. The last of these OVAs was also released as part of the Jump Super Tour ‘95 film. 

New Captain Tsubasa sees all the Japanese all-star teams join forces to compete in France, which gives fans a chance to see all their favorites together. Meanwhile,  Captain Tsubasa: The Strongest Opponent! Netherlands Youth is about a series of games between the Japanese youth team and the Netherlands youth team. 

Captain Tsubasa J (1994-1995)

This is, in many ways, a remake, or at least partly one, because the first part of Captain Tsubasa J retells the so called “Kid’s Dream” arc, which is basically the elementary school part of the original anime. But the second part goes into new stuff adapted from the manga, like the so called “Word Youth Arc,” that sees Tsubasa go to Brazil to play at Sao Paulo FC. The show also follows the Asian preliminaries and the World Youth tournament, which of course, sees Japan face Brazil in the final.

Captain Tsubasa: Road to 2002 (2001-2002)

Captain Tsubasa: Road to 2002 is another retelling of a lot of the original anime, this time with a retelling of the OVAs as well, and going even further to follow not just Tsubasa, but the main cast of players that have populated the previous installments in their professional careers. The series was released to advertise the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea. The series was sponsored by Adidas, whose logo can clearly be seen at multiple points during the show. Alas, it would not bring Japan the luck they wanted, as the team was eliminated in the round of 16 in real life.

Captain Tsubasa (2018)

Is it another remake, this time closer to the manga? Yes, it is. Captain Tsubasa follows in the footsteps of other anime franchises who did exactly the same thing in recent years, like Sailor Moon, which debuted Sailor Moon Crystal in 2014. The animation doesn’t change all that much, but the look is cleaner and there’s much less filler in this version of the story. A great watch for those who don’t have the patience to wait for three episodes from the moment Tsubasa hits the ball to the moment we find out if he scores or not.

Where To Watch 'Captain Tsubasa' In Order Online

To discover more about Captain Tsubasa TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

The popular British historical drama Downton Abbey follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants through the early 20th century as major events change their world. Following the end of the original series’ run in 2015, the franchise has continued through several sequel films. Whether you’re looking to revisit the franchise before the release of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale or trying to find out how to watch the iconic drama for the first time, this streaming guide shows you how to watch every Downton Abbey movie and TV show in release order. Just be prepared to head over to streamers like Prime Video and Apple TV+ to kick off your watch party. 

Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

If you want to watch Downton Abbey in order, you have to start with the original series. Over the course of six seasons, Downton Abbey tells the story of the Crawley family estate and all the melodrama that its upstairs and downstairs inhabitants endure. Much of the drama centers around who will inherit the Earl of Grantham title from its current holder, Robert Crawley (Hugh Bonneville), who has no male heirs.

This is a great show to watch if you love character-driven historical drama. The show tells the story of how the aristocratic and working classes were impacted by important events like the sinking of the Titanic, World War I, and the Irish War of Independence. It’s also full of the type of glamour and upper class scandals you may have already enjoyed in The Gilded Age (2022) and Bridgerton (2020).

Downton Abbey (2019)

If you thought six seasons of Crawley drama wasn’t nearly enough, you’ll want to watch the movies next, starting with (the confusingly named) Downton Abbey (2019). The film picks up in 1927, about a year after the events of the final season, as the family and staff prepare for a royal visit from King George V and Queen Mary. Of course, it wouldn’t be Downton Abbey without some drama, romance, and scandal—this time caused by assassination attempt.

Downton Abbey doesn’t veer far from the series, so most fans of the TV series will find the plot pretty predictable. One of the best things about the movie is that the show’s cast reprise their roles for the film, including Bonneville, Maggie Smith, and Michelle Dockery. If all you want is to watch your favorite Downton characters doing exactly what you want to see them do, this movie is for you.

Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022)

The Crawley estate’s drama-filled journey through the early 20th century continues in Downton Abbey: A New Era. As the title suggests, those who’ve enjoyed watching the aristocratic family faced with a rapidly changing world will want to see how they handle old secrets and new challenges alike. Still, like its predecessor, A New Era doesn’t try to reinvent the series, instead delivering the familiar story beats and character moments Downton Abbey fans love.

The plot centers on a villa in Southern France, which Dowager Countess Violet Crawley (Maggie Smith) mysteriously inherits from a Marquis. Meanwhile, the Crawleys allow a production company to shoot a film at Downton as a much-needed source of income, inevitably leading to more drama and new romances. Among those joining the cast for A New Era are Nathalie Baye as the Marquise de Montmirail, Hugh Dancy as the film director, and Dominic West as an actor in the film-within-a-film.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (2025)

Downton Abbey concludes with The Grand Finale, which brings the Crawleys and company into the 1930s as the next generation of the family prepares to take over. The story centers around a public scandal involving Mary (Michelle Dockery) that could disgrace the family. The Grand Finale also features the return of Paul Giamatti, who appeared in the TV series as the brother of Cora (Elizabeth McGovern). 

Best enjoyed by longtime fans of the franchise caught up on the previously mentioned movies and shows can watch how the family and staff deal with the fallout of another major scandal. At the time of writing, The Grand Finale ends the series with plenty of surprises sure to delight those looking for a little more time with the Crawleys. 

The G for general rating differs from country to country, but it's riveting to think of how it's a majority of these movies that mold and shape audiences. How some people might be more fascinated by them at a younger age, then fall out of love with them as they get older. Or how they might not enjoy them as kids, but see the beauty in their message when they're adults. More importantly, it's these universally revered films that have stood the test of time and have broken barriers to create a lasting impact in filmmaking to signal what type of content is suited for all members of the audience.

From the legendary (and best) adaptation of Dickens' A Christmas Carol to the strongest works of animation in years, here are the top 10 best G-rated movies, available on platforms like HBO Max, Disney+, and more.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) 

Inarguably the best adaptation of A Christmas Carol—and one of the best Muppets movies to date—The Muppet Christmas Carol is an indescribable national treasure to watch every year during the holidays. In true Muppet form, the majority of the key players are portrayed by the renowned Muppets, with the exception of a few human actors, such as the legendary Michael Caine, who embodies Ebenezer Scrooge brilliantly, delivering one of his most emotionally impactful performances. 

The story follows the classic tale to a T, with astounding performances from everyone involved and exceptional fourth-wall-breaking from Gonzo as Dickens and Rizzo the Rat as himself. Featuring an immensely catchy soundtrack, gloriously fun meme-worthy moments, and tremendous heart behind every word spoken aloud, The Muppet Christmas Carol is top-tier on all accounts, appealing to kids and adults, with a universal message centered on empathy.

The Sound of Music (1965)

Although the heavier themes in The Sound of Music are undoubtedly more evocative and nuanced for the adults with more cognizant awareness of history, Robert Wise's classic musical is a stunning treat regardless. When Julie Andrews' Maria is sent to the von Trapp house, she finds more than a job as a governess—she finds love, a family, and, more importantly, a place to belong. It no longer becomes a story about helping a family, but a story about love in all its various forms.

With breathtaking scenic shots, a solid soundtrack, and beautiful performances from everyone involved, it's one of the few three-hour films that passes so quickly that it's hard to believe its runtime. And as one of AFI's Top 100 films, The Sound of Music holds a special place, no matter how old the person watching it is. There are countless lovely and wholesome moments for the kids who want to be swept away by movie magic, allowing it perhaps to be their first gateway into something that isn't animated.

Toy Story (1995)

Pixar's biggest and most groundbreaking hit, Toy Story, doesn't miss a single beat in presenting themes on abandonment, loyalty, compassion, and the idea of a found family. The notion that Andy's toys come to life when he isn't around and look after him is a comforting idea to hold onto as kids. And as adults, it becomes even more heartbreaking to look back and see how brilliantly the layers of childhood and varying personality types come into play with each different toy. 

With astounding animation, iconic voice acting from Tom Hanks as Woody (as well as the entire cast), and an undoubtedly timeless story that holds up today, knowing that Disney+ will likely always stream Toy Story is the gift that keeps on giving for all viewers. There's a reason Pixar films have the most impact on kids and adults, and it all boils down to how effective the character work is alongside the animations. 

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

As a heartwarming story about animals and the love they have for their owners, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a beloved film for countless reasons. Chance, Shadow, and Sassy are a family of two dogs and a cat, each completely different from the other, before an adventure out of the comfort of their own home draws them closer together. 

Wholesome, surprisingly honest, and vulnerable, the adorable film ties humans and animals together in the kind of story that's as well-made as it is a classic. Safe from a tragic animal death that the majority of viewers steer clear of, it's one of the few films that ensures that trials lead to a happy ending. It's thematically perfect for viewers who loved movies like the most recent animated feature, Flow. 

Anastasia (1997)

One of the most breathtaking animated films to exist, Anastasia takes a dark piece of history and makes it accessible to all audiences, managing still to leave family as the heart of the story. Woven deep into the fabric of the film, Anastasia is all about homecoming and the great lengths people will go to in order to keep the promises they make. Like most fairy tales, the darkness is veiled with hope, but there's something even more pronounced about the heartbreak in this one.

Gorgeously animated and featuring some of the best voice acting in generations from Meg Ryan and John Cusack, Anastasia takes the story of the Russian princess and adds the type of romance and humor that can continually stand the test of time. The soundtrack is gorgeously similar to timeless stories like Beauty and the Beast, but still so stunningly unique that to this day, few songs manage to evoke the same sense of hope that homeless romantics especially adore.

The Aristocats (1970)

Sweet, effortlessly quotable, and hilariously charming from beginning to end, The Aristocats is as much about family as it is about finding a place to belong. Living in Paris and cleverly named after renowned French figures, Duchess and her three kittens, Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse, experience every cat's dream life with their owner, retired opera singer, Madame. But when they're kidnapped, the fancy Parisian cats meet an alley cat named Thomas O'Malley, who shows them a different side of Paris, all while doing everything in his power to get them back home. 

The film's depth and nuance become clearer as we grow older and understand all the historical and cultural themes present within, but for kids, the G-rating allows them to embark on the best kind of adventure. As an animated Disney film, it's also one of the ones that's safe from any sort of parental death, unlike Bambi or Dumbo, which can be unsettling for sensitive viewers. 

Mary Poppins (1964)

The name alone says everything, and as a G-rated film, Mary Poppins is yet another classic that feels like a homecoming of sorts. Starring the inimitable Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, it's a masterpiece for a reason—even if the book's original author, P. L. Travers never wanted the film to be made. 

Primarily marketed as a story for children, themes of retaining our childhood amid stress and adversaries feel especially relevant to the kids who grow up and rewatch it. Sprinkled with catchy music and wholesome animated beats with live-action, the London-based film is an adorable joyride in every way. While it might not be for every viewer, it's certainly for those who appreciate something uniquely directed and musical.

Ratatouille (2007)

Pixar's Ratatouille might not be the most realistic of films, but it certainly features a significant message about acceptance and beliefs. The idea that everyone can cook is born when Remy, an actual rat, aids the kitchen worker Linguini in cooking what's the greatest meal set in Paris. In addition, while the dish itself isn't all that unique, the end message of what criticism actually means and how we approach what's unfamiliar to us makes Ratatouille the type of standout feature that's sure to remain timeless. 

Featuring glittering animation and one of the best original scores from Michael Giacchino, there's no denying that Ratatouille is a film for all ages. But it's got something especially gripping for the viewers who grew up to become journalists in any field. 

The Wizard of Oz (1939)

While it certainly isn't as dark as Wicked, the origin story that coined the phrase "there's no place like home" is indeed a solid G-rated film that's best suited for anyone who's a little nerdy and brave at heart.

The Wizard of Oz holds plenty of nuance in its short timeframe, but it's overall a substantial showcase of unlikely friendships and the lengths people are willing to go for those they love. Emphasizing the idea that people are more than capable of whatever they'd like to accomplish, Dorothy's journey back to Kansas is a classic for a reason. In addition, Judy Garland's performance as Dorothy is a timeless showcase of authentic talent that brings to life something noteworthy, allowing her to escape into the role as brilliantly as Julie Andrews does in Mary Poppins. If for no other reason, the performances are enough reason to deem it as one of the best films to have ever been made.

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

It's only as adults that the themes of greed and gluttony become more profound, but as a film we're introduced to as kids, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory is an addicting spectacle for many reasons, namely the ridiculously catchy soundtrack.

With a brilliantly memorable performance from the late Gene Wilder as the titular character and a sharp, surprisingly hilarious screenplay, everything about the movie is a joy ride to appreciate. We have had a few adaptations afterward, but none have had the same impact as the original. This adaptation carefully and effectively shines as a story that both honors Roald Dahl's book and stands on its own two feet. Narratively, structurally, and performance-wise, it's the best adaptation on all fronts.

After a super long wait (no pun intended), James Gunn’s Superman (2025) has finally kick-started the relaunched DC Universe of films, delivering something closer to the traditional comic book take of Superman than we’ve gotten in some time. With the success of Superman and a direct follow-up officially on the way in the form of Man of Tomorrow, excitement is at an all-time high. 

For many, though, that ideal Superman doesn’t come from comics, but from animation. With Superman films seemingly spending more time in development hell than they have being made, fans have had to rely on animation to get their fix. If you’re looking to see where those origins lie, look no further than our picks for the best Superman cartoons of all time, and where you can find them on platforms like HBO Max. 

The New Adventures of Superman (1966-1970)

In 1966, years before Filmation would be known for its landmark He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983) animated series, it took over the swashbuckling tales of the Man of Steel. The New Adventures of Superman filled a void that had been left by the cancellation of The Adventures of Superman (1952) following George Reeves’s sudden death. 

New Adventures of Superman is something of a DC jam show, so there’s a lot of variety here if you also want to catch some Batman and Aquaman cartoons. However, it’s very much a product of its time, making it a tough watch if you can’t stomach old cartoons. For those that can, though, it remains a fun, nostalgic watch. 

Super Friends (1973-1985)

Superman is perhaps best remembered as something of a meme thanks to the landmark Super Friends cartoon, which started in 1973 and ran in some form or another through 1985. The series features the heaviest hitters of DC comics, anchored by Superman himself, as they fight an array of enemies, notably the Legion of Doom led by Superman’s nemesis, Lex Luthor. 

Super Friends may be viewed as something of a joke now, but it was an animation and merchandising juggernaut in its time. The show’s remarkable, over-the-top fun and cheese factor have allowed it to persist in re-runs, streaming, and home releases for a reason. It’s a dated show by today’s standards, but nowhere near as dated as New Adventures of Superman is, and the lighter tone makes this a great show to watch for nostalgia or with younger fans who are just getting into comic books. 

Superman (1988)

Considering the era it was released in, it’s a little odd that the Ruby-Spears-produced 1988 Superman is a forgotten relic today. It really shouldn’t be, though! The show has an incredible attention to detail, thanks to stories overseen by DC Comics writer Marv Wolfman. If that doesn’t do it for you, then the gorgeous animation, based on the then-current post-Crisis on Infinite Earths designs by legendary artist Gil Kane, have aged tremendously well. 

Superman is a bit more down-to-Earth and doesn’t feature a whole lot of crossover with other DC characters, though Wonder Woman notably makes an appearance late in the season. Its sole 13-episode season is an unforgettable cartoon with high-quality animation and rich storytelling from an era just before the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987) changed everything and serves as a notable slice of animation history. 

Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths (2010)

Released as part of an ongoing series of DC Comics animated films, 2010’s Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths serves as a loose adaptation of the 2000 graphic novel JLA: Earth 2. The series sees the Justice League thrust onto an alternate Earth ruled by their evil counterparts, the Crime Syndicate of America. This film notably features a new voice cast, with NCIS star Mark Harmon stepping into the role of Superman for an acclaimed performance. 

Crisis on Two Earths is one of the high points of DC’s animated outings of the 2010s. The cast is phenomenal, the action is unforgettable, and the story, like the comic it’s based on, is one that will stick with you. It’s a shame that the immediate sequel, Justice League: Doom (2012), would ditch Crisis’ cast to serve as more of a Justice League (2001) reunion. 

Justice League Action (2016-2018)

Debuting in 2016, Justice League Action is a series of shorts that aired on both the web and Cartoon Network. Clocking in at only a few minutes, the shorts are aimed at a tween audience and feature the Justice League in adventures that border on absurd. Superman is a recurring character and features in some of the best shorts. Of particular mention is the episode “True Colors,” which was acclaimed not only for its action and Kryptonite gags, but also its reintroduction of Pink Kryptonite, which turned Superman into Superwoman here. 

The real problem with Justice League Action is that it didn’t last for long. It’s a lot of fun and features a lot of DC characters who don’t often get the limelight, like Stargirl, Booster Gold, and Blue Beetle. The short runtime of each episode and light content make it fun viewing for any DC fan. 

Superman: Man of Tomorrow (2020)

Following the success of the DC Animated Movie Universe, an attempt was made at a soft reboot for the film series, kicking off with 2020’s Superman: Man of Tomorrow. As such, this wave of films became known as the Tomorrowverse. Man of Tomorrow is an updated origin story, focusing on Superman’s role as the last survivor of Krypton and contrasting him with the likes of Martian Manhunter and Lobo. 

Like most of the Tomorrowverse films, Superman: Man of Tomorrow is a well-done animated adventure, and its update to the Superman mythos is a spectacular modernization. This particular era of stories came to a close with 2024’s Crisis on Infinite Earths adaptation. If you’re looking to start this series of films, Man of Tomorrow is the obvious and perfect starting point.

Superman: The Animated Series (1996)

In the wake of Batman: The Animated Series (1992), Bruce Timm and Alan Burnett were tapped to give Superman the same animated refresh. The result was Superman: The Animated Series, a show which had an arguably greater impact than Batman did, but much more subtly. A lot of modern Superman is codified in this series, which features a tongue-in-cheek but stoic Superman paired with a modern and feisty Lois Lane. 

The series streamlined Batman’s art style even further for an unforgettable, timeless art deco look. The stories are anchored by perfectly cast voice talent that includes Tim Daly, Clancy Brown, and Dana Delany. The stories are some of the tightest of the DCAU, and the show notably isn’t afraid to get dark, as exemplified in its brutal murder of recurring character Dan Turpin. Watch this if you’re looking for a more family-friendly take on Superman that still carries enough maturity to keep adults engaged. 

Justice League Unlimited (2004-2006)

Everything that made Superman: The Animated Series and Batman: The Animated Series great culminates in the 2001 to 2008 double feature of Justice League and Justice League Unlimited. While Justice League may have featured some all-time classic Superman tales, you really have to throw it to Justice League Unlimited if you’re trying to rank one of them as the best Superman cartoon of all time. 

JLU is the series that gives us an incredible adaptation of “For The Man Who Has Everything” that is so good, even original writer Alan Moore liked it (reportedly) and the legendary “World of Cardboard” speech as he threw Darkseid around Metropolis. But if you must see an all-time great JLU Superman episode, look no further than the show’s tearjerker of a Christmas episode, “Hereafter,” where Superman shares his love of Christmas with the Martian Manhunter. 

My Adventures With Superman (2023-Present)

My Adventures With Superman was a surprise hit when it launched in 2023, and it continues to impress today. The show is a heavily retooled take on the Superman mythos, leaning into modern storytelling and animation tropes to the point that Superman gets an honest-to-God transformation that would make Sailor Moon jealous in its first episode. But don’t mistake it for bad storytelling. 

My Adventures with Superman may look like a light-hearted, all-ages adventure series, but there’s some serious weight to its message of acceptance, found family, and doing what’s right no matter the cost. This is perhaps the definitive Superman animated show of any generation. 

All-Star Superman (2011)

It should come as no surprise that the best Superman cartoon ever made is a close adaptation of arguably the best Superman comic ever made. Like the critically acclaimed comic, All-Star Superman follows the Man of Steel after he is exposed to a lethal amount of solar radiation and is given just one year to live. During that year, we see him spend time with his friends and family as he strives to complete the impossible tasks he has worked to solve before time runs out. All the while, he never despairs, never mopes, and faces adversity with strength. 

All-Star Superman, like the comic that inspired it, is the definitive Superman tale of hope and its everlasting power. It’s an abbreviated version of the all-time great comic it adapts, but it’s still hailed as the best Superman story for a reason. After 2025’s Superman and its message of hope and strength in the face of adversity, All-Star Superman is the perfect film for Superman fans both new and old who are looking for a take on the Man of Steel that is both earnest and humble.

Squid Game, Netflix’s most-watched series of all time, wrapped up its extraordinary run with an explosive third season. The show garnered a sizable audience for its dystopian thriller game show concept, in which cash-strapped individuals play children’s games with a deadly twist in hopes of winning a cash prize.

While one or more children’s game inspires every challenge, each boasts its own unique, deadly element. Viewers can use our guide to find the 10 most brutal Squid Game challenges, ranked from the most brutal based on violence, difficulty, and the brutality of the elimination process.

10. Ppopgi

Like Red Light, Green Light, Ppopgi became one of the most memorable games of Squid Game Season 1. In the game, players are given Ppopgi, also known as Dalgona candy, which have shapes etched in the center. The honeycomb-like toffee is extremely brittle and fragile, and players are tasked with whittling it down to the center shape without breaking or nicking it. While Ppopgi is one of the least physical and, therefore, least violent and brutal games, it’s still one of the most difficult in the series, as one wrong move or tremor of the hands is enough for an instant loss.

9. Mingle

In Squid Game Season 2, Mingle is a bit like musical chairs, but with a merry-go-round and doors. Players stand on the merry-go-round platform as long as it's moving with music playing. As soon as it stops, a number is called out, and players must break into groups of that number and find refuge in a room. However, there aren’t enough rooms for everyone, so those stuck outside when time runs out are eliminated. If a room doesn’t have the correct number of players, those inside are also all eliminated. Mingle is a challenging game, considering it requires swift reaction and movement times. The panic it induces when one can’t find a room or a group adds to the brutality.

8. Squid Game

Squid Game Season 1 concludes with the two finalists competing in the titular game. Squid Game is a South Korean game in which an offense and a defense team play on a squid-shaped playing field. The defense must defend their area inside the squid, while the offense tries to infiltrate the squid and reach the head. Its rules are simple, but Squid Game adds another twist by giving the finalists the option to kill one another to win the game. Hence, the game quickly turns into an all-out fight to the death between the two finalists. The game is violent, brutal, and heartbreaking, considering the finalists were once friends.

7. Jump Rope

In Squid Game Season 3, the game of jump rope is similar to hopscotch and tug-of-war in that it’s played high in the air, resulting in the gruesome death by free-fall. What’s particularly difficult about the game is that it’s played immediately after the brutal hide-and-seek game, meaning numerous players are forced to play with injuries they sustained in the highly physical previous game, such as a broken ankle. Additionally, each player must cross a narrow bridge while jumping rope. As a result, some malicious players intentionally block the path to add additional challenges for the weakest and most vulnerable players. The game is brutal, difficult, and, at times, highly unfair.

6. Tug-of-War

Squid Game Season 1’s tug-of-war is another game with an exceedingly high death toll. The game is played the traditional way, with players forming teams and pulling at opposite ends of a rope until one team crosses the center line. However, the players play the game on an elevated platform, with the entire losing team in each match falling to their deaths. The deaths are as brutal as in hopscotch, but far more numerous due to the teams. It’s a less-difficult game, as strength or strategy can win, but the elimination process is very brutal, as the losing team can often predict their impending demise before the agonizing plummet.

5. Six-Legged Pentathlon

The six-legged pentathlon in Squid Game Season 2 is one of the most challenging games to win, since it consists of a series of games rather than a singular one. Players form teams of five and must successfully complete five mini-games before time runs out. The teams play Ddakji, Flying Stone, Spinning Top, and Korean versions of Jacks and Hacky Sack. While the individual games aren’t terribly difficult, the pressure and nerves are at their highest as players are forced to complete five games as quickly as possible with the threat of death hanging over them. Naturally, many find themselves so unnerved they’re unable to complete games they’ve played dozens of times, making for some of the most stressful and tense deaths of the series.

4. Marbles

It’s hard to imagine a game of marbles turning brutal, but Squid Game Season 1 found a way to make it the darkest and most challenging game. The game starts with immediate trickery, as players are directed to separate into pairs and most choose their allies before they’re informed that they’ll be competing against their partner. In each group, the winner will be whoever can acquire all their opponent’s marbles first. Pink Guards instantly eliminate the loser.

What sets the game of marbles apart in Squid Game Season 1 is that each pair gets to decide their own rules for the game. Some play traditional marbles, but most resort to some form of manipulation and trickery, resulting in extreme difficulty and some of the most heartbreaking betrayals in the series.

3. Hopscotch

Squid Game Season 1’s version of hopscotch differs drastically from the children’s version. In Squid Game, the game is played hundreds of feet in the air as players attempt to walk across glass panels suspended in mid-air and must guess which panels can bear their weight and which will shatter immediately upon stepping on them. The game turns gruesome as players make the wrong guess and plummet to their deaths instantly. Not only is the nature of elimination brutal, but the game is one of the most difficult, relying on sheer luck rather than any type of skill.

2. Red Light, Green Light

Both Squid Game Seasons 1 and 2’s opening game is Red Light, Green Light. Like the children’s game, it’s a game of reflex, where players move during the green light and must instantly freeze during the red light. However, the significant difference is that a giant Young-hee doll calls out the light color and instantly and fatally shoots anyone detected as moving during the red light. To make matters worse, as the opening game, the players play Red Light, Green Light before they’re informed of the deadly nature of the competition. Hence, they panic when the first shot rings out and ignore the rules, resulting in a stampede and bloodbath that makes it, by far, the deadliest game in the whole series.

1. Hide-and-Seek

Squid Game Season 3 starts with a bang, opening with what’s easily the show’s most brutal challenge: hide-and-seek. The game makers turn the innocent game into a hide-and-seek-and-kill game. Players are randomly divided into two teams: blue and red. Those in blue are given keys and a head start to enter the arena and hide. Several minutes later, the red players, who are given knives, enter the arena to hunt down and kill the blue players. If a red player doesn’t successfully kill at least one blue player, they’ll be eliminated when time runs out.

Hide-and-seek is by far the most violent and physical game in Squid Game, giving contestants free rein to commit murder. It’s also exceedingly difficult for both sides, as one side is unarmed and hunted, while the other side must commit the unfathomable act of murder.

Where To Watch 'Squid Game' Challenges Online

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Korean pop music, or K-pop, has become more and more popular in the West over the past decade, so it makes sense that Hollywood would try to capitalize on the genre’s growing popularity. However, not many people were expecting Sony’s animated take on the genre, KPop Demon Hunters, to be as popular as it is, but it’s eclipsed almost everybody’s expectations. Not only is there an absolutely phenomenal soundtrack that deserves the acclaim it’s getting, but the film also boasts expressive animation, some genuinely cute and charming comedy, and a love story that would feel right at home on any K-drama. It’s a certifiable hit for Netflix, which clearly has Oscar ambitions for the film. But what if you’ve listened to “Golden” or “Your Idol” on loop all summer and want something just like KPop Demon Hunters? 

After looking through JustWatch’s huge library of films and TV shows, I’ve settled on five different movies that will scratch the same itch that KPop Demon Hunters does. What makes a film like KPop Demon Hunters though? Being a musical most definitely helps, but animated movies about a small group of people saving the world from evil will do just as well, and bonus points if it has some Asian influence/aesthetics to back it up! So, with that in mind, here are five films like KPop Demon Hunters, ranked from least to most recommended!

5. La La Land (2016)

If you want something a bit more dramatic and adult that builds on the will-they-won’t-they relationship drama of Rumi and Jinu, then La La Land is an easy recommendation. It’s a movie musical set in Los Angeles about two struggling artists, Mia, an aspiring actress played by Emma Stone, and Seb, a young jazz pianist played by Ryan Gosling. The two meet and eventually fall in love, but it's not easy as they try to find a way to balance their careers and dreams. While it’s definitely a bit more complex than the dynamics in KPop Demon Hunters, it’s a great romance with a gut-punch ending that’s surprisingly grounded in its depiction of love. 

La La Land knows how to perfectly shift between the high energy and excitement shown in songs like “Another Day of Sun” and “Someone in the Crowd” to more somber and dramatic numbers like “City of Stars” and “Audition (The Fools Who Dream).” Director Damien Chazelle knows how to showcase music on film, and La La Land is arguably his best movie. The songs aren't quite as catchy as KPop Demon Hunters, but what they lack in memorability they more than make up for by pulling at your heart strings. If you want to see a musical that really explores love and loss through music, La La Land is the perfect choice.

4. Mamma Mia! (2008)

ABBA may be a band you either love or hate, but if you want a feel-good movie musical that’ll have you sing way more than La La Land, you can’t really go wrong with Mamma Mia!. Adapted from a Broadway musical of the same name, Mamma Mia! is a comedy about how a young bride-to-be named Sophie, played by Amanda Seyfried, invites three different men to her wedding to figure out which of them is her biological father. From there, hijinks occur, everyone sings, and by the end, we’re all filled with joy and happiness.

Mamma Mia! is stuffed to the brim with energy and joy to the point where the more dramatic moments are quickly forgotten in favor of just having fun. While the songs may not have as much bite as “Takedown” or “How It’s Done,” if you loved earworms like “Soda Pop,” then Mamma Mia! will spoil you with a plethora of songs just like it. The film is also bright, inviting, and doesn’t take itself too seriously, channeling a lot of feel-good musicals like High School Musical and Hairspray. So, if you liked the earlier and middle parts of KPop Demon Hunters and want something that captures that same vibe, then Mamma Mia! will get the job done.

3. The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

KPop Demon Hunters has plenty of expressive and wild animation, so if you’re trying to match its energy, another Sony animated movie that excels in a similar way is The Mitchells vs. the Machines. Set in the middle of a robot apocalypse, the Mitchell family, at first, are trying to drop their eldest daughter off at college but instead end up being the only people who can save the world from a robot uprising. 

While the film also explores themes of family and mending strained relationships, the animation is the main selling point. The Mitchells vs. the Machines has a lot of the same unique quirks of KPop Demon Hunters' style, like bizarrely off-model faces, as well as cartoonish proportions during more lighthearted scenes and the, at times, cringey humor. Some people may wince at the amount of cringey humor here, and there’s way more of it when compared to KPop Demon Hunters, but it’s a brisk 110 minutes that feels much shorter than it is. Plus, The Mitchells vs. the Machines is also available on Netflix, making it a great choice for a double feature if you want some high-quality 3-D animation.

2. Wicked (2024)

KPop Demon Hunters may be the queen of the pop charts right now, but let’s throw some respect to the former heavyweight champion, Wicked. Also adapted from a popular Broadway musical like Mamma Mia!, Wicked tells the story of Elphaba, a young, aspiring sorceress who has been ostracized from society due to her strong magical powers, but wants nothing more than to meet the ruler of the land, the Wizard. There's a lot more going on under the surface, with plenty of set-up for its sequel, which helps make the land of Oz feel fully realized and alive.

Music is obviously one of the most important elements in a musical, and Wicked stands apart from other movie musicals with a strong, memorable score. Songs like “Popular,” “Defying Gravity,” and “What Is This Feeling?” have been iconic in the musical theatre community for years. Wicked goes all in on being a spectacle much in the same way The Greatest Showman and West Side Story do, which will definitely be a plus for those who loved the climax of KPop Demon Hunters. Plus, if you empathized with Jinu and his struggles between good and evil in the film, Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba may be a kindred spirit of sorts to him, and with a great set of vocals to boot. 

1. Turning Red (2022)

One of the first choices I had when thinking of movies similar to KPop Demon Hunters is Turning Red, which may seem odd just looking at the two on the surface. While Turning Red isn’t a musical, it captures a lot of the heart that KPop Demon Hunters does. The film follows Mei, a Chinese teenager growing up in Canada in the early 2000s, who discovers that she’s forced to turn into a Red Panda whenever she experiences strong emotions due to a family curse. She tries to keep this power a secret from her mom, and instead, uses it to help raise money for her and her friends to go see a popular boy band visiting Toronto, 4*Town. Because of this, there’s a lot of love clearly on display for pop music and boy bands in particular, even if the songs themselves aren’t the main focus. 

Turning Red goes to great lengths to show the complicated relationship Mei and her mother have, much like how Rumi and her mother have a strained relationship due to the secrets they keep from the other members of HUNTR/X. It’s one of the more minor elements of KPop Demon Hunters. However, Turning Red also stresses the importance of found family. Both films are love letters to pop music and the power/importance of friendship, so even if Turning Red isn’t a musical in the traditional sense, the themes it carries makes it a perfect complement to KPop Demon Hunters, and all you’ll need is a Disney+ subscription to enjoy it.

Superman is one of the most popular and powerful fictional characters in existence. While plenty of hardcore comic fans can generate countless hypothetical scenarios explaining how and why Superman could lose to heroes like Batman or Goku, people just have to accept that Superman would win all of those fights because of just how strong he is.

There are plenty of feats that Superman has accomplished in film and television to back up that claim. In Superman (1978), he flew around the planet so fast that he traveled back in time. He let loose against the anti-hero group, The Elite, in Superman vs. The Elite, and made this all-powerful group practically beg for their lives. Then in Justice League, he single-handedly defeats the Justice League, which at that time consisted of The Flash, Wonder Woman, Cyborg, and Aquaman. And that’s not even getting into some of the things he’s done in comics!

But there is one ability that Superman has in the comics that will never be seen on screen. No matter how much people want to see Superman assume this form, it will forever be a pipe dream because there is no way in the world that we will ever see Cosmic Superman. 

Cosmic Superman Is Literal Plot Armor

Cosmic Superman, or Cosmic Armor Superman, originates from Final Crisis, an event comic written by Grant Morrison from 2008 to 2009. In it, specifically in the tie-in issue “Superman Beyond #2,” Superman assumes the form of a gigantic robot powered by his thoughts to find an antidote for a sickness that Lois Lane was infected with. In order to do so, he needs to travel beyond the multiverse and fight against Mandrakk, a nigh omnipotent being described as “the opposite of life.” 

As a story, calling Final Crisis complicated would be a gross understatement. The series plays fast and loose with plenty of metatextual ideas and concepts, like how Limbo is an actual place where characters go once they’re forgotten, to the very nature of storytelling and, depending on who you ask, a thorough repudiation of the grimmer outlook of storytelling that the comic industry was steering toward following the success of Alan Moore’s acclaimed works like Watchmen or The Dark Knight Returns. 

It is a mess, to put it mildly, and Cosmic Superman is one of the most complex things about it. It’s never outright stated what Cosmic Superman’s powers are, but they’re described as being an elevation of Superman’s own abilities and how he is a living narrative device. He has to power to adapt to any threat and can perceive space and time on an entirely new level. He knows that he is in a story and that the story is shaping around him, ultimately becoming a living plot armor that has one purpose—defeat Mandrakk.

Cosmic Superman is constantly growing and becoming more powerful the more he fights. While he’s never shown in Final Crisis doing anything other than flying, punching, and using his heat vision, the constant narration from Superman portrays him as a beyond omnipotent being, someone who is aware of all realities and, quite literally, cannot be defeated. Because that’s what the story of “Superman Beyond #2” needs him to be. He can’t be defeated because the story can’t continue if he loses. 

Cosmic Superman Is Too Meta For General Audiences

If you were brave, or foolish, enough to try to bring Cosmic Superman to the big screen, there are several major challenges that any filmmaker would have to overcome. Let’s say, hypothetically, that you wanted to adapt Cosmic Superman without any of the baggage from Final Crisis. You wanted to leave behind the narrative confusion, the examination of storytelling, and all of the not-so-easily-explained concepts like Superman inhabiting the giant robot through his thoughts.

First of all, you can’t have Cosmic Superman without those metatextual elements. Final Crisis, and the “Superman Beyond” miniseries within it, are entirely reliant on the examination of story and narrative. Superman is meant to represent the desire for a happy ending and how Superman’s stories can never and will never end. When Cosmic Superman finished his fight with Mandrakk, he left behind a message of “To Be Continued,” showing readers that Cosmic Superman, and Superman in general, can’t end, something that Final Crisis codifies in its ending.

Trying to explain these ideas to audiences in a Superman story would be the cinematic equivalent of Kryptonite. Many moviegoing audiences don’t want and probably wouldn’t be able to understand dissertations on the function of story and narrative. They want to see Superman fly around, defeat the bad guys, and save the day, with maybe a smattering of more grounded themes here and there. Grant Morrison’s depiction of Cosmic Superman is baffling in and of itself, so dumbing it down to fit within a conventional superhero story would defeat the whole point of featuring him in a movie or TV show anyway. It just seems like a terrible idea and is destined to make audiences walk out of theaters or check out mentally.

Cosmic Superman Without Proper Context Is Just A Bad Idea

But even then, if a creator is insistent on removing the thought-provoking context this form of Superman needs: What are you left with? Superman in a giant robot. Make no mistake, that sounds cool and would be cool to see, but it also cheapens Superman’s own powers and abilities. 

Superman has been shown to be powerful enough to fight against gods. Why does he need a giant robot? What can a giant robot do that Superman can’t? Sure, it could probably take a hit from Kryptonite and still keep going, but then the giant robot would have infinitely more weaknesses. Plus, if you’re trying to go to the scale of Final Crisis, creators will have to try to match the same scale of that series to justify the creation of Cosmic Superman, which is nigh impossible. Cosmic Superman is so big, he can hold all of Limbo, a near-endless world of forgotten ideas, which also contains a book with infinite stories and pages, all in the palm of his hand. How do you convey the scale of that to a general audience? 

If you just want to have Superman fight a giant monster, let him fight a giant monster. The tension of watching Superman fight a being far stronger than him is exciting enough and will lead to plenty of entertaining moments, whether it be in a movie theater or on television. But the minute Superman enters a giant robot to fight his foes, the fight becomes less interesting. It’ll begin to feel like something that should happen in a sci-fi action movie and not a Superman movie. Other heroes can and should have giant robots, but not Superman.

Cosmic Superman is a cool concept, but he’s simply unadaptable. He can’t exist in film or television because he’s not meant to exist in film or television. He’s a narrative device that works solely in Final Crisis, and while Superman’s powers are normally unfair in how powerful he is, Cosmic Superman is just plain broken. It’s fun to read about, but not to see on screen, making him a version of Superman audiences will never see outside of comic pages. 

Where To Watch Other Superman Movies And TV Shows Online

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

As one of the most popular romance tropes, the love triangle can be a hit or miss. A writer will either do a brilliant job of making the decision feel earned, or it'll simply add unnecessary drama to a story that would have otherwise been great. Countless movies and TV shows have utilized the trope in their relationship development, but only a handful have done an excellent job of showing why it's believable for the characters to feel as they do. In addition, what makes a good love triangle stand out is when it's apparent why a person could be torn between two love interests.

With the recent success of Celine Song's enamoring hit Materialists, looking back at films featuring the trope feels inevitable. Here are the eight best love triangle movies and where to find them on Disney Plus, Prime Video, and more.

Materialists (2025)

Celine Song's Materialists brilliantly plays with the love triangle trope by making both Pedro Pascal's Harry and Chris Evans' John deeply likable. As Dakota Johnson's Lucy connects (and reconnects) with them throughout the film, it's understandable why we see the back-and-forth cycle. 

As a film that realistically navigates through the pools of dating, Materialists explores the idea of what it means for someone to be the right person versus someone who checks all the right boxes. Here, the love triangle isn't a plot device, but rather an authentic depiction of human interests and how it's not just circumstances but the emotions that play a role in what a person wants versus what they need. For the viewers who generally hate the trope, there's a high chance you'll still love how effectively Materialists explores it.

Casablanca (1943)

As one of the most revered films of all time, Michael Curtiz's Casablanca is an all-encompassing classic for a reason. Known for many reasons, such as its iconic "here's to looking at you, kid," which has been the source of tireless analysis, the film also diligently explores a love triangle between the characters played by Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid. 

As a film about anxieties, sacrifices, friendship, and love, Casablanca consistently resonates as it ages because of its simplicity and the profoundly relatable human struggles, no matter the time or place we're watching from. Classic films played with the trope long before it even had a name, but none have done it as gutwrenchingly as Casablanca, making it a must-watch for anyone who's in the mood to metaphorically have their hearts ripped out of their chest.

Past Lives (2023)

Celine Song's masterful debut, Past Lives, thoughtfully and meticulously explores the idea of soul mates through different points in time. Greta Lee's Nora is happily in love with Arthur (John Magaro), but when her childhood best friend, Hae Sung (Teo Yoo), visits New York City from South Korea, lingering questions of what-ifs plague every person involved in the story. 

Like in Materialists, Song ensures that the viewer understands every character's innermost thoughts and feelings to see why the idea of uncertainty is like a fourth character in the story. While there's a choice at the end that feels right for all characters involved, it's the type of stand-out feature that diligently examines a human being's vast capacity to love. It's also a must-watch for viewers who want a version of the childhood best friends to lovers trope that makes it clear why friendship is a better alternative to a romantic relationship.

Challengers (2024)

Challengers is perhaps the most unique love triangle film of the decade because it's the only one that teeters right on the edge of setting up what could actually be a three-way relationship. As another film that spans across a number of years, Tashi Duncan (Zendaya), Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), and Patrick Zweig (Josh O'Connor) consistently orbit around each other as they're tethered through tennis and their shared history of romance. 

Despite the fact that Tashi initially chooses Patrick, she later ends up marrying Art, as the former best friends eventually fall out of touch. Brilliant and compelling from start to finish, Luca Guadagnino's hit draws a clear picture of why these characters can't stay away from each other and how they each bring something inimitable to the three-way relationship. While viewers wanting a more authentic tennis film might not appreciate the approach Challengers takes, it's ideal for anyone who favors complex character journeys and messy decisions that result in the kind of nail-biting resolution. 

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

As a classic romantic comedy, While You Were Sleeping glistens as a film with another unconventional love triangle that dives deep into offering character studies. After she saves her crush's life, Sandra Bullock's Lucy lies to the hospital staff that they're engaged, which then results in a domino effect of her lying to his family while he suffers from amnesia. Amidst her ruse, Lucy connects with Peter's brother, Jack, making viewers question what choice she'll eventually make, even when it becomes obvious. 

Do you give the love you've always wanted a try, or do you allow fate to take its course? The end result, along with every little thing that occurs throughout the film, has made it one of the most renowned romance films and a must-watch year-round for countless people. Perfect not only for the viewers who like the love triangle trope, but also for those who appreciate the amnesia trope as well, which is more often done in books than in TV and film.

The Notebook (2004)

Similar to Materialists, The Notebook explores the idea of perfection through someone who checks all the right boxes but isn't exactly the right person. After Rachel McAdams' Allie Hamilton is forced to break up with her boyfriend Noah Calhoun because her wealthy parents disapprove of their match, she reconnects with him later in life while she's visiting and engaged to James Marsden's Lon. Both men treat Ally as well as she deserves to be treated, but as her choice in the end proves, you don't always forget your first. 

The Notebook might be known for its epic reunion kiss or Ryan Gosling's astounding delivery of a man who's still utterly in love, but it also shines in its admirable way of exploring a love triangle. It's the ideal movie for viewers who not only adore a good first love story but for those who appreciate deliciously angsty second chance romances. 

Pearl Harbor (2001)

As a historical film, Pearl Harbor accomplishes very little, but as a romance that features a love triangle, it's yet another gorgeous story that explores how it's possible for a person to love more than one person at the same time. When Evelyn believes the love of her life, Rafe, to be dead, she and Danny eventually connect with their shared grief and build their own love story. But later, when Rafe shows up—very much alive—matters become more complicated, allowing the choice she makes at the end to be the one that feels both right by circumstances and for the character

The different relationship she has with each of them provides interesting beats of entertainment throughout to showcase alternate points of love that bring out something completely different in a person. For viewers wanting a historically accurate film, this one's not the way to go, but for those wanting to dive into an emotionally complex roller coaster of romance, then Pearl Harbor is sure to be evocative.

The Twilight Saga (2008-2012)

As a genre, fantasy plays on the love triangle quite a bit, yet none more hilariously than the Twilight Saga. So well known, even as people hate-watch it, the love triangle in New Moon is one many viewers are aware of, whether they've read the books or not. When Robert Pattinson's vampire boyfriend, Edward Cullen, leaves Kristen Stewart's Bella Swan alone in their town of Forks, Washington, Taylor Lautner's werewolf, Jacob Black, steps into the picture. 

The friendship between them becomes a relatively significant one, making it believable why the main character would briefly feel torn about her supernatural choices. Still, for viewers who prefer more realistic depictions of the trope, like in Materialists or Past Lives, the Twilight Saga's campy approach might be best for those who really love the genre.

The next entry in the James Bond franchise still has a lot of questions and rumors surrounding it, even as the direction of the movie seems to be coming into view. One of the biggest announcements in the entertainment industry came in early 2025, when it was announced that Amazon MGM Studios will be taking a more direct charge in the future of the James Bond series. Given the conclusive nature of Daniel Craig’s final outing as the character in No Time To Die, this sets the stage for a fresh chapter for one of cinema’s most iconic franchises. 

Although many details about the project remain under wraps, reporting by Variety and The Guardian have confirmed that Denis Villeneuve will direct the next entry in the series, as well as a potential short list of candidates for the role of Bond. Here’s everything we know so far about the future of James Bond, who is reportedly on the short list to play him, and which one should get the role. 

What To Know About Denis Villeneuve’s James Bond Film

On June 25, 2025, Denis Villeneuve was formally announced as the director of the currently unnamed 26th James Bond film. According to Variety, six other directors were considered at one time or another. Amazon was interested in bringing Christopher Nolan onto the project as the follow-up to Oppenheimer, but he eventually chose to shift his focus toward The Odyssey. Alfonso Cuarón was also a contender but removed himself from the short list to focus on films like the upcoming Charlize Theron movie, Jane.

Villeneuve reportedly beat out four other iconic modern directors, including Edward Berger, Edgar Wright, Paul King, and Jonathan Nolan, for the gig. Villeneuve is currently preparing to film Dune: Messiah, the third entry in his adaptation of the seminal sci-fi series Dune. Amazon plans on a 2028 release date, suggesting the next James Bond movie will be Villeneuve’s next film. Reports also indicate that Amazon Studios hasn’t chosen a Bond actor yet, but that it wants to cast someone who is in their late 20s/early 30s, which removes many potential contenders for the role.

007 Frontrunners For Denis Villeneuve’s James Bond

There are plenty of rumors about who will play James Bond, especially in light of Variety’s reporting on Amazon’s supposed short list for the part. Notably, some very popular contenders for the role were left off the list, even though their high profiles mean they still very much feel like they’re in the race. One of the likeliest picks for the part, according to betting odds, is Theo James, who has been a consistent presence in British film and television but reached a newfound level of popularity after his starring role in The Gentleman.

Other popular picks for the part include Regé-Jean Page from Bridgerton and James Norton, who wowed critics in British television shows like Grantchester and Happy Valley. There’s also the perennial fan favorite casting of Idris Elba, even though the actor has repeatedly claimed that he believes he’s too old to play the part. Despite being considered strong contenders for the role, none of these choices were on Amazon’s reported short list, likely due in part to their ages. However, this doesn’t mean they’ve been fully knocked out of the running, just that they might not be among MGM Amazon’s top picks for the part. Other more probable contenders based on the short list include: 

5. Tom Holland

Arguably the biggest star among the three actors Amazon has reportedly short-listed for the part, Tom Holland would be an interesting choice for James Bond. The actor, who is best known as Peter Parker/Spider-Man in Marvel Cinematic Universe films like Spider-Man: Homecoming, is no stranger to the responsibilities and challenges of blockbuster filmmaking. He’s got the action chops to play the part, along with a natural charm that would make him an interesting pick for the typically more dour spy, inherently recalling the more overtly silly entries in the series.

The biggest complication for Holland taking on the part also happens to be the likeliest reason he’s on the short list: Spider-Man. Holland is currently set to appear in another Spider-Man film, as well as the future entries in The Avengers series, meaning he simply might not have the time to appear in another massive franchise. However, his time as Nathan Drake in Uncharted underscores his charming potential as Bond.

4. Henry Cavill

Another popular choice for the role of James Bond is Henry Cavill. The Man of Steel and The Witcher star actually came close years prior, barely losing the role to Daniel Craig for Casino Royale. Since then, Cavill has proven himself adept in the spy and action genres, especially after his performances in movies like The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.

Cavill wasn’t on the short list for the part, and at 42, he’s far older than what Amazon reportedly wants. However, Cavill remains a popular fan choice for Bond, which could influence Amazon’s overall decision. In the meantime, Cavill is plenty busy with his upcoming adaptation of Warhammer 40,000 with Amazon, which suggests a healthy working relationship with the studio. It’s possible that his collaboration with Amazon might extend to the Bond universe.

3. Harris Dickinson

Another one of the actors included on the Amazon short list for the role of James Bond, Harris Dickinson, is a perfect pick on paper, but some real-life complications might keep him out of the part. Dickinson has proven himself a solid action star, delivering one of the best fight scenes in the Kingsman: The Secret Service prequel, The King’s Man. He’s also got the raw charisma and blunt confidence to play the part, as seen in his domineering romance with Nicole Kidman in Babygirl. Both of those, coupled with his conventional good looks and dramatic chops, would make him a natural pick for the part.

However, Dickinson has also been tapped to star as John Lennon in Sam Mendes’ four-part film series about the Beatles, which means that Dickinson simply might not have the time to also be Bond. If he can pull it off, though, he might be the most conventionally fitting choice for the role.

2. Aaron Taylor-Johnson

The long presumed frontrunner for the James Bond role, Aaron Taylor-Johnson might be missing from Amazon’s short list, but still remains a top contender for the part anyway. Having been in the industry since he was a child, Taylor-Johnson has developed into a compelling character actor with good comedic impulses and strong action chops, highlighting what he could bring to the role. His frustrated hitman Tangerine was a highlight of Bullet Train, showcasing how he can undercut his external charms with a tinge of darkness.

While Kraven the Hunter wasn’t exactly high cinema, Taylor-Johnson showcased his skills in fight scenes during the film and proved he has the body for the role. Although he’s a bit older than what MGM Amazon Studios is reportedly looking for, he’s not too much older than the intended window and could easily carry the series forward. Taylor-Johnson has been the favorite for the part for a reason, and that doesn’t change just because he’s not on the short list.

1. Jacob Elordi

The third actor on Amazon’s reported short list for James Bond, Jacob Elordi might have the perfect mix of qualities, skills, and availability to become Denis Villeneuve’s Bond. The Australian-born Elordi definitely has the looks for the part, with striking features that would benefit the suave super spy. He also has plenty of romantic experience thanks to his breakout role in The Kissing Booth. Shows like Euphoria and Saltburn have proven that Elordi can easily bring out the dramatic edge of the character, like fitting right into the artistically-minded Villeneuve's approach to the character.

The biggest knock against Elordi taking on James Bond is his relative lack of action movie experience compared to the other popular contenders for the role. However, his career is about to get a huge boost in profile thanks to his starring role in upcoming films like Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein and Margot Robbie’s Wuthering Heights, which could make him a more enticing pick for Amazon. If Elordi can prove that his skills translate to action films, then he might be the perfect choice for James Bond in Denis Villeneuve's take on the property.

Where To Watch The Movies Proving These Actors Would Make The Perfect James Bond Online

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The Starship Troopers franchise is one of the oddest in Hollywood. It’s all based on a 1959 novel of the same name by Robert Heinlein but is nothing like its source material. The book was heavily influenced by post-World War II America, with Heinlein being very much pro-America, pro-war, and pro-McCarthyism. The result is a book that saw the world go to war with “the Bugs,” an alien race of insects that operate under a collective hive mind. 

The Bugs represented communists, and the book depicts a version of Earth that revolves completely around prepping young people for warfare. Its war-obsessed, fascist “utopia” was an allegory for American exceptionalism (and American imperialism), which has since caused the book to be controversial—being loved by one side of the political spectrum and hated by the other. 

But the film series (and TV shows, which have since become lost media) are nothing like what Heinlein imagined, range from intriguing, cheesy sci-fi adventures to downright eviscerations of Heinlein’s militaristic obsession. Read on to discover how to watch Starship Troopers in order and get a little more info about each project.

Starship Troopers (1988)

The first iteration of Starship Troopers was an anime from 1988 titled Starship Troopers. The series was the first to begin transitioning Heinlein’s political manifesto into a more narrative-driven story. It follows the young Rico, who enlists in the military to be with his crush, Carmencita. Shortly after enlisting, Earth goes to war, dragging Rico into a battle he’s not entirely prepared for. The anime has become lost media, with no official streaming home and no physical release available. Luckily, certain episodes and clips have been unofficially uploaded to YouTube. 

Starship Troopers (1997)

The franchise’s biggest outing to date is 1997’s Starship Troopers. The movie was directed by Paul Verhoeven who lived in the Netherlands through World War II when it was occupied by the Nazis, unlike Heinlein who never actually saw warfare. When he made his film adaptation, he wanted it to showcase how absurd Heinlein’s views were and presented a world where war is everything, and humans are just cannon fodder for their political overlords. 

The result is a wildly fun and campy movie that is bombastic, slapstick, funny, and absurd. It’s the complete opposite of the book, which is incredibly slow, takes itself very seriously, and spends ample amounts of time explaining Heinlein’s fever-dream fascist beliefs ad nauseam. The movie became a subversive piece of political satire that largely went over audiences’ heads. “These heroes and heroines were straight out of Nazi propaganda,” Verhoeven told The Guardian. “No one saw it at the time. I don’t know whether or not the actors realised – we never discussed it. I thought Neil Patrick Harris arriving on the set in an SS uniform might clear it up.”

Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles (1999-2000)

Picking up after the movie, the animated series Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles sees a battalion known as the Roughnecks take on various missions during the ongoing Bug War. The series aired on an obscure network called BKN that went defunct in 2000. The series has never received an official streaming home, but old DVD copies can be found on Amazon, and clips have been unofficially uploaded to YouTube. 

Starship Troopers 2: Hero of the Federation (2004)

The straight-to-DVD sequel Starship Troopers 2: Hero of the Federation sees a group of soldiers stranded on an alien planet and surrounded by the Bugs. Being straight-to-video, it’s no surprise the movie was met with dull reviews that claimed the mostly standalone story didn’t really add much to the franchise universe. However, it did introduce a pretty cool Faculty-style parasitic brain bug that could slither its way into people and turn them into minions of the Bug hivemind. 

Starship Troopers 3: Marauder (2008)

Original star Casper Van Dien returned for Starship Troopers 3: Marauder. The film was also straight-to-video, but critics said it was a vast improvement from the second movie and loved that it brought back some of the wild, kitschy vibes that made Verhoeven’s film so great. Marauder continues the Bug War, which by this point has been going on for over a decade. 

The government uses its powers to facilitate the war and diminish the power of any protesters advocating for peace. The return of political commentary really helped make the third film feel truer to the series, and gave the movie a deeper, better story. It’s absolutely an improvement from the second film and is worthwhile for franchise fans to watch.

Starship Troopers: Invasion (2012)

The first animated Starship Troopers movie was 2012’s Starship Troopers Invasion. In the film, a terran spacecraft loses all communication with the rest of the fleet. A recovery team goes in search of the ship to see if there are any survivors, but after arriving, they discover a queen Bug has taken over the ship. Like the other sequels, Invasion was straight-to-video, but critics and audiences appreciated its switch to the anime style and its great story. Plus, it was made by Shinji Aramaki, who is known for projects like Appleseed (2004) and Blade Runner: Black Lotus (2021). The film really helped prove that the Troopers franchise had a lot of life left in it.

Starship Troopers: Traitor of Mars (2017)

Again directed by Aramaka, Starship Troopers: Traitor of Mars saw Van Dien reprise his role as Rico once again. The film also brought back a political subplot, this time seeing Rico working at a military training station on Mars. Little does he know, the Bugs have a massive hive underground that’s been growing for decades. Some politicians are aware of their presence but have kept the information secret, hoping to use a devastating Bug attack to boost their careers. When the attack begins, it’s up to Rico to lead his team to victory. 

Released in 2017, it was timed for Starship Troopers’ 20th anniversary and had a one-night-only theatrical release through Fathom Events. It also saw Dina Meyer reprise her role as Dizzy from the first film.

Where To Watch 'Starship Troopers' In Order Online

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

It’s undeniable that one of the biggest movies of 2025 is A Minecraft Movie. Not only did it nearly earn one billion dollars at the box office, but between the memes across social media and a chart-topping single, it’s become almost impossible to ignore. The film rejuvenated the box office in a way that few movies have been able to do, even if people left some movie theaters in, shall we say, less than desirable states, thanks to the infamous Chicken Jockey. 

However, now that A Minecraft Movie is available to stream on HBO Max, it should be much easier to keep your living room intact while watching it. But maybe you’ve already seen it with your family, and you’re trying to watch something different to get “Steve’s Lava Chicken” out of your head. If so, here are some recommendations that should help satisfy those looking for more movies like A Minecraft Movie.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

While A Minecraft Movie may be successful, it didn’t earn quite as much as Nintendo’s second attempt at delivering a theatrical movie based on Super Mario Bros. The Super Mario Bros. Movie hits a lot of the same story beats that A Minecraft Movie does, including having Mario travel from his world to another world, in this case the Mushroom Kingdom, seeing him try to stop an evil army bent on world domination, and weirdly enough, another Jack Black musical number that became impossible to avoid. 

Personally, I find The Super Mario Bros. Movie a lot more approachable and easier to engage with than A Minecraft Movie. Anyone can sit down, watch it, and have a good time, without having to worry about not understanding some of the mechanics or references and without having to make a huge time commitment, given that the film is only 92 minutes long. It’s much more cartoony and full of slapstick, making it an easy recommendation for younger children who may not be ready to handle some of the more raunchy jokes in A Minecraft Movie.

Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

If you’re talking about video game adaptations, then Sonic the Hedgehog can’t be far behind. Sonic has been a part of many TV shows and anime OVAs since the ‘90s, but it wasn’t until 2020’s Sonic the Hedgehog that the blue blur saw a resurgence of popularity. The film, much like the character, has attitude and is chock-full of puns and quips, as we watch Sonic hang out around the town of Green Hills and evade the capture of Jim Carrey’s Dr. Robotnik. 

The film is perfect for older children who are okay with a bit more violence in their PG movies, and it perfectly sets up several pieces to be explored in its later sequels and spin-offs. A lot of the humor is reminiscent of other hybrid live-action movies like Looney Tunes: Back In Action (2003) and Bumblebee (2018), where a lot of the charm mostly comes from seeing our animated hero interact with everyday people and objects. I’ve been a fan of Sonic since I was a kid, and if your kid also loves Sonic, then any of the three core Sonic the Hedgehog movies will thrill them.

Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019)

When Pokémon was being adapted into a live-action feature film, most audiences probably weren’t expecting it to be a murder mystery, but that’s what we got with Pokémon Detective Pikachu. The film follows Tim Goodman, played by Justice Smith, as he teams up with a talking Pikachu, played by Ryan Reynolds, to uncover not only what happened to Tim’s missing father but also to figure out who created a mysterious gas called “R.” 

As a longtime Pokémon fan, I loved seeing what some Pokémon would look like in the real world, and fans who grew up playing the games will probably feel the same way as me. That being said, don’t go into the movie expecting big Pokémon battles like in Pokémon: The First Movie (1998). It’s more like a cross between the more character-driven Pokémon 3: The Movie (2000) and the light noir vibes of Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1998). The mystery is relatively straightforward. This is still a kids' movie after all, despite how dark some of the environments may be. Still, Detective Pikachu is bound to please both Pokémon newcomers and veterans alike.

The Angry Birds Movie (2016)

Coming from yet another massive video game franchise, The Angry Birds Movie, like A Minecraft Movie, used film to expand upon a lot of the ideas established in the original video games. In The Angry Birds Movie, Red, a bird who is sent to anger management class, teams up with two other birds named Chuck and Bomb, as they attempt to protect their island from a group of invading green pigs. 

If there’s one thing that elevates the movie above its peers, it's the solid voice cast ensemble, which includes Jason Sudeikis, Bill Hader, Josh Gad, and Kate McKinnon, just to name a few. The comedy is fast and frenetic because of this, channeling a lot of the expressive animation that you would see in an animated movie like Hotel Transylvania (2012) and Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs (2009). Sure, it can be a bit reliant on pop culture references like an early DreamWorks movie, but if you like humor like that, then give it a watch! 

The LEGO Movie (2014)

Not many people were expecting The LEGO Movie to be as good as it was, but it turned out to be an energetic film bursting with creativity that feels natural. The film is less interested in marketing LEGOs to kids and more interested in offering a look at consumerism and parenthood in a way that children can easily understand.

The LEGO Movie received critical acclaim when it was first released, despite being unfairly snubbed from Best Animated Feature at that year’s Oscars. However, it would serve as the foundation for virtually every other LEGO movie since then, so if you or your kids liked The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) or The LEGO Ninjago Movie (2017), you may be surprised to see a LEGO film that actually has meaningful substance to it. Despite being a brand, much like Barbie (2023), the film manages to cobble together a story filled with jokes that will entertain adults and kids and may potentially bring tears to both of their eyes.

Ron's Gone Wrong (2021)

Ron’s Gone Wrong was a victim of the COVID-19 pandemic, and I wish more people saw it. It was originally slated for a 2020 release but slipped into 2021 without any fanfare after multiple delays due to the closure of several theaters and how studios were skittish about releasing movies to theaters only for them to bomb. 

It’s a shame because Ron’s Gone Wrong is a hidden gem that explores the role technology plays in children’s lives. Like The LEGO Movie, it tackles a lot of the same anti-consumerist themes, with an extra focus on the influence that social media has. However, for kids who just want to watch a fun movie about a boy becoming friends with a defective robot played by Zach Galifianakis, there’s enough energy and wacky hijinks that anyone can have a good time with it. 

The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

There are high-energy family films, and then there’s The Mitchells vs. the Machines. Also a victim of a COVID-19 delay, the film was originally slated for a theatrical release before it shifted to an exclusive Netflix release, which makes it one of the best animated movies you can watch on the streamer. The film is a road trip comedy where the dysfunctional Mitchell family travels to drop off their eldest daughter, Katie, played by Abbi Jacobson, at college. At the same time, the robot apocalypse begins (it happens), and now the family has to evade their robotic pursuers while going through their issues. 

The film is a mile-a-minute laugh fest  bursting with creativity, whether it be from the outlandish jokes or how wild the individual set pieces are. It can be serious at times, too, tackling technology in a way not dissimilar from Ron’s Gone Wrong, but then it goes right back to comedy that, at times, feels like it was ripped right out of Gumball (2025). It’s just a wonderful little family film, and with it running 110 minutes, it’s a great choice for a weeknight family movie night with the kids.

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)

It feels weird to say that Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, the sequel to the Shrek series spin-off, is one of the best DreamWorks movies of the past few years, but it’s true. The quality jump between this film and its predecessor is so striking that it makes me look at Disney and ask why it isn’t taking as many big swings as DreamWorks is.

This adventure sees Puss, played once more by Antonio Banderas, on an adventure to find the Wishing Star, which leads to Puss fighting Goldilocks and the Three Bears, “Big” Jack Horner, and Death itself. It’s an adventure in every sense of the word, and while A Minecraft Movie features its own world-crossing epic, it doesn’t feel quite as personal or as well executed as Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. It’s not quite as serious as other animated adventure movies like Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), but the frank discussions it has about topics like death and family are important. This may be best enjoyed by slightly older children, given all the discussions about death and the very unnerving wolf that stalks Puss, but they’ll fall in love with how bold and mature it is for a kids' movie.

The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie (2025)

It’s uncommon today to see a theatrically released animated film that’s entirely 2D, but leave it to The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie to return to a style of animation long overdue for the limelight. In it, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig, both played by Eric Bauza, try to find a job to earn money to repair their house. Through cartoon logic, they’re then wrapped up in an alien/zombie invasion, and they’re the only ones who can save the day. 

The film feels both classic and modern, blending together slapstick and zany gags with modern writing and comic timing, creating a film that stands out from other recent family films. It still carries that classic Warner Bros. charm, so those who love Animaniacs (1993) and Tom and Jerry (1940) will instantly feel at home. It’s a refreshing comedy that throws everything and the kitchen sink at the viewer and doesn’t care what sticks. We need more comedies like this, so if your kids want to watch something that plays up a lot of the physical comedy from A Minecraft Movie, then The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie should be high on your recommendation list.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017)

Dav Pilkey may be best known for his Dog Cop series, but for millennials, Captain Underpants was his first big, addictive-to-read hit. It took until 2017 for a film adaptation to be made, but Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie, even after decades of publication, knows its audience and delivers exactly what they want, which goes beyond just references to the books. 

For kids, it’s fart jokes, silly superheroics, and gross-out humor. For adults, there’s a healthy amount of puns, deadpan humor, and strong animation that frequently switches styles, which you wouldn’t expect given that it’s, you know, a Captain Underpants movie, but it’s true! It’s also a brisk movie, clocking in at just under 90 minutes. While I praised DreamWorks earlier for how it has grown in recent years, seeing a movie that isn’t afraid to be silly and dumb like Madagascar (2005) or Bee Movie (2007) is perfectly fine as well. It is an easy recommendation for someone who loves the more goofy and childish jokes in A Minecraft Movie.

While action superstar characters like The Terminator and Rambo struggled to find their footing in the ‘90s, new action franchises found their place with a focus on martial arts and more grounded adventures. At the tail end of this era came Jason Statham and his hit Transporter franchise. 

Debuting in 2002, The Transporter became an iconic role for Statham. The franchise itself is a beloved fan favorite, and while it certainly suffered diminishing returns, there’s an argument to be made that there is something for everyone in even its worst entries. You can see for yourself, though, with our guide on watching the Transporter movies and TV shows in order. Look to platforms like Prime Video and Starz to start your movie night right now. 

The Transporter (2002)

Breaking onto the scene in 2002, The Transporter served as something of a breakout franchise for Jason Statham, at the time best known for his work in crime dramas like Snatch (2000) and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998). For The Transporter, Statham gets to demonstrate his martial arts prowess as Frank Martin, a former SAS operative turned shrewd deliveryman. Breaking one of his three rules, Martin finds he has been roped into a human trafficking ring and sets out to put a stop to it before they can kill him. 

The Transporter is a remarkable film filled with frenetic adventure. If you’re in the mood for a fairly mindless action flick with some great action and a charismatic cast, The Transporter is a great choice, especially for fans of similar bombastic franchises like John Wick and Taken. 

Transporter 2 (2005)

The success of The Transporter led to an inevitable sequel, Transporter 2, which shook up the plot by moving Frank out of France and into sunny Florida, as well as temporarily removing him from his highly illegal Transporter jobs. For this outing, Frank is instead doing a favor for a friend and serving as a chauffeur for a kid, but he must spring back into action when the child is kidnapped. In rare form for a sequel, Transporter 2 retained a lot of the same audience. 

What can really be said about The Transporter 2 that wasn’t said about the first movie? In truth, the movies are more identical than they are dissimilar, though the sequel does have some fun by putting Frank into the role of child carer versus the stoic badass he was in the original. The action is still top-notch, the puns will still make you roll your eyes, and Statham is still a surprisingly effective lead. These films aren’t high art, but they are entertaining fun in a very ‘90s action throwback kind of way that scratches a very specific itch for action movie buffs looking to turn their brains off for a bit and enjoy a fun movie.  

Transporter 3 (2008)

By 2008, Jason Statham was a bonafide household name for action films, thanks to outings like Crank (2006) and Death Race (2008). He’d return to Frank Martin one more time for Transporter 3, but this is the one that saw the franchise start to shift into neutral. This time around, Martin is forced against his will to deliver a package to Budapest with a bomb strapped to his wrist and complete a job another Transporter failed to finish. 

As the third in the trilogy, Transporter 3 unfortunately shows its age. Again, there’s not a lot to say here that isn’t just a repeat of the first two movies. Statham is as charismatic as ever, and he really knows how to carry an action scene. It’s a good thing, honestly, that this franchise wound down to let him move on to bigger and better franchises and action roles like The Beekeeper (2024) or The Meg (2018) rather than returning to drive his Frank Martin character into the ground (pun not intended).

Transporter: The Series (2012-2014)

It’s easy to forget the 2010s fascination with taking blockbuster film franchises and turning them into TV series, and seeing the middling reception to shows like Taken (2017) and Limitless (2015), you’d be surprised that studios kept trying. Setting the stage for both of those shows, however, was Transporter: The Series, a 2012 jaunt that ran for two seasons. 

Transporter: The Series doesn’t share continuity with the films, instead following Frank Martin on a series of weekly adventures with no real overarching plot and a minimal cast of characters. It’s definitely a step down from the film franchise, and the episodic nature means it can be a drag when an episode doesn’t hook you. If you’re a die-hard fan of the films looking to scratch an itch, this is a great pick, but otherwise this winds up being a mediocre action series. 

The Transporter Refueled (2015)

Come 2015 and the decision was made to reboot the Transporter franchise. Though attempts at a Transporter 4 were made, an agreement couldn’t be reached and Statham was out. Ed Skrein, perhaps best known for his work in Deadpool (2016) and Rebel Moon (2023), would take over the role of Frank Martin alongside the late, great Ray Stevenson as his father, Frank Martin Sr. The film sees Martin Sr. kidnapped and Martin Jr. tasked with driving around a trio of femme fatales. 

The Transporter Refueled just doesn’t really work. Statham’s absence sticks out like a sore thumb, but what’s really damning is this reboot attempt to find its footing the same year he appeared in Furious 7 (2015). Completionists may want to check this out, but really you should just stick to the original trilogy.

The Blade Runner franchise is expanding again with the upcoming release of Blade Runner 2099. Blade Runner 2099 is a miniseries that will serve as a sequel to the films. While its release date is unknown at the time of writing, the series already boasts a stacked cast, including Michelle Yeoh and Hunter Schafer.

Viewers interested in catching up on the franchise before Blade Runner 2099 can use our guide to find out where to watch every Blade Runner movie and TV show in release date order on platforms like Prime Video, Crunchyroll, and more.

Blade Runner (1982)

Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner is a cyberpunk, dystopian movie that follows “blade runner” Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), whose job is to hunt down and dispose of replicants, aka bioengineered humanoids. When tasked with retiring four illegal replicant trespassers, his sensitive mission becomes even more complicated when he falls in love with a replicant. Blade Runner initially received a lukewarm reception, both commercially and critically. However, the movie is now considered one of the greatest sci-fi dystopian films ever made, popularizing the cyberpunk subgenre and boasting groundbreaking visuals and worldbuilding with thought-provoking themes on the nature of humanity.

Soldier (1988)

Soldier isn’t officially part of the Blade Runner franchise, though writer David Webb Peoples confirmed he intended it to occur in the same universe. In the film, Sergeant Todd "3465" (Kurt Russell) has been raised since infancy by the military to be a killing machine but finds himself obsolete when the military replaces him with genetically engineered soldiers. He tries to find a new purpose on an abandoned colony on the planet Arcadia 234. While it doesn’t boast the scope of Blade Runner, Soldier is still worth a revisit from modern viewers as its small, intimate setting and action-packed premise perfectly frame its exploration of human relevancy in a changing world.

2036: Nexus Dawn (2017)

2036: Nexus Dawn is the first of the three prequel short films released to set the stage for Blade Runner’s long-awaited sequel. The short takes place 13 years before Blade Runner 2049, when Niander Wallace (Jared Leto), the CEO of Wallace Corporation, pitches his idea to lawmakers for a new brand of replicants to use as cheap labor. 2036: Nexus Dawn is just six minutes long, but it masterfully sets the stage for the franchise’s future by capturing Wallace’s greed and unchecked ambition as he goes to extreme lengths to prove that replicants’ potential value as labourers outweighs their risks.

2048: Nowhere to Run (2017)

2048: Nowhere to Run takes place one year before the sequel movie and is set in Los Angeles. The short gives the perspective of a replicant as it follows Sapper Morton (Dave Bautista) attempting to live an everyday life, selling leeches and befriending a young girl and her mother. However, when a group of delinquents attack the mother and daughter, Morton must choose between saving them and revealing his true identity. Bautista offers an excellent performance, capturing the complexity of replicants in such a way that leaves viewers wanting more. The short is also very informative, as Sapper returns briefly in the sequel.

Blade Runner: Black Out 2022 (2017)

While released after 2036: Nexus Dawn and 2048: Nowhere to Run, Blade Runner: Black Out 2022 takes place before the other two shorts, occurring just three years after the events of Blade Runner. Blade Runner: Black Out 2022 is an animated short in which rebel replicants Iggy (Jovan Jackson) and Trixie (Luci Christian) set out to destroy replicant manufacturer Tyrell Corporation, unwittingly paving the way for the Wallace Corporation to rise. The short boasts gorgeous visuals and offers the final piece of the puzzle regarding the post-Blade Runner world, as it establishes the event known as the Great Blackout in the sequel.

Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

Blade Runner 2049 is a sequel to Blade Runner, with Denis Villeneuve taking over directing from Scott. The film takes place 30 years after the events of the original movie, where replicant K (Ryan Gosling) works as a blade runner to retire rogue replicants. When he uncovers a shocking secret about replicants, it forces him to track down the missing Deckard to avoid an all-out war between replicants and humans. Blade Runner 2049 proved a worthy successor to Blade Runner, offering an even more visually dazzling entry that intriguingly expanded the lore and continued probing the original’s idea of what constitutes humanity.

Blade Runner: Black Lotus (2021)

Blade Runner: Black Lotus is an animated spinoff series that takes place between Blade Runner and Blade Runner 2049. The series centers on female replicant Elle (Arisa Shida/Jessica Henwick), suffering from amnesia. When she awakens in Los Angeles in 2032 with no memories, she sets out on a mission to solve the mystery of her identity and past. Blade Runner: Black Lotus recreates the Blade Runner universe in visually striking and beautiful animation while matching the cyberpunk aesthetic of the movies. However, it also differentiates itself with an entirely new and intriguing story of an amnesiac replicant seeking answers and vengeance.

Blade Runner 2099 (TBD)

Blade Runner 2099 is the first live-action TV series in the Blade Runner franchise. The series will serve as a sequel to the movies, set 50 years after Blade Runner 2049. It follows Cora (Hunter Schafer), a fugitive on the run who forges an unlikely alliance with replicant Olwen (Michelle Yeoh) to secure her brother’s future. Blade Runner 2099 doesn’t have a release date at the time of writing, though filming wrapped in late 2024. While few details aside from the cast and plot have been released, the premise holds potential for carrying on the Blade Runner legacy and aesthetic.

How To Watch 'Blade Runner' In Chronological Order

The chronological viewing order for the Blade Runner franchise (excluding the non-canonical Soldier) is as follows:

• Blade Runner
• Blade Runner: Black Out 2022
• Blade Runner: Black Lotus
• 2036: Nexus Dawn
• 2048: Nowhere to Run
• Blade Runner 2049
• Blade Runner 2099

Where To Watch 'Blade Runner' Movies And Shows Online

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Released during the height of the ’90s slasher resurgence, I Know What You Did Last Summer is inspired by the 1973 YA novel of the same name—though the movie completely changes the plot, keeping just the basic premise intact. In the film, a group of high school seniors accidentally hit a man while driving drunk, and to protect their futures, they make a pact to never tell anyone. But the man survives the encounter and returns for revenge. The movie stars huge names, giving it an all-star ’90s teen heartthrob cast, including Jennifer Love Hewitt, Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Ryan Phillippe, among others.

Grossing over $125 million (equalling over $251 million when adjusted for inflation) at the box office, the movie was a huge success. The following year, the film got a sequel with I Still Know What You Did Last Summer, which saw the return of Hewitt and Prinze Jr., who both reprise their roles yet again in I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025). But what has the cast of the original film been up to since the movie’s premiere? Read on to find out! 

Jennifer Love Hewitt (Julie James)

Hewitt had the starring role as final girl Julie James, who becomes the main target in the IKWYDLS franchise. Since her time as a ’90s Scream Queen, Hewitt has gone on to have a massively successful career in television, starring in three hit series. First was her supernatural drama Ghost Whisperer (2005-2010), where she played a medium who could speak with the dead and help them move on to the other side. Next up, she starred in the 2010 made-for-TV movie The Client List, which was inspired by a very real 2004 prostitution raid at an Odessa, Texas massage parlor that was secretly managing an underground network of sex workers. The film was a hit and became a TV series that ran until 2013.

Currently, fans can see Hewitt starring as 9-1-1 operator Maddie in the soapy action series 9-1-1. Each episode sees the people of Los Angeles face unprecedented disasters, from plane crashes to viral outbreaks, terrorist bombings, and more. Off-screen, Hewitt has been married to actor Brian Hallisay since 2013, and they have three kids. 

Freddie Prinze Jr. (Ray Bronson)

Prinze Jr. starred as Ray, Julie’s boyfriend. He was in the car the night they accidentally hit Ben Willis and later returned for both I Still Know What You Did Last Summer and 2025’s I Know What You Did Last Summer. Two years after starring in the original horror hit, Prinze Jr. landed the biggest role of his career: starring in She’s All That as a popular high school boy who makes a bet that he can turn the weird artsy girl (Rachael Leigh Cook) into a prom queen. Little does he know that she’s got some lessons to teach him, and he might be the one learning to change. 

Since then, Prinze Jr. has become a prominent voice actor in shows like Robot Chicken (2005-2022) and Star Wars Rebels (2014-2018). He also voices the character James Vega in the Mass Effect video game franchise. The actor married his IKWYDLS costar Sarah Michelle Gellar in 2002. The two have two kids together. 

Sarah Michelle Gellar (Helen Shivers)

Portraying beauty queen Helen Shivers, IKWYDLS was the first of many horror roles for Gellar, who would go on to become one of the most iconic Scream Queens ever. She later had a role in Scream 2 (1997) before starring in the 2004 mega-hit The Grudge, which cemented her place in horror history. During that time, Gellar also starred in other popular films like Cruel Intentions (1999) and Scooby-Doo (2001), where she co-starred alongside future husband Freddie Prinze Jr. once again.

However, Gellar is best known for starring as Buffy in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In the series, Buffy is one of the chosen “vampire slayers,” but she fights all sorts of evil villains, from demons to monsters and more. The show was a massive hit because it blended themes from campy teen dramas with elements of horror, sci-fi, and fantasy. Running for seven seasons, the show aired 144 episodes from 1997-2003.

More recently, Gellar has seen a career comeback and starred in the 2022 Netflix movie Do Revenge and has a recurring role on Showtime’s Dexter: Original Sin. She’s also slated to return in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot. 

Ryan Phillippe (Barry William Cox) 

Phillippe starred as the movie’s bad boy (and borderline antagonist), who thankfully gets what he deserves. Throughout the late ’90s and early aughties, Philippe had a string of high-profile films. He joined costar Sarah Michelle Gellar in Cruel Intentions and went on to star in critically praised films like Gosford Park (2001) and Crash (2004), which controversially won Best Picture at the 78th Oscars. 

More recently, Philippe starred in the 2010 SNL spoof film MacGruber, which parodied the ’80s action series MacGyver. In 2021, he returned for Peacock’s exclusive series adaptation, MacGruber. He also starred in Big Sky (2020) and Prime’s coming-of-age biker drama Motorheads (2025). Off-screen, Philippe had a high-profile marriage to Reese Witherspoon from 1999-2007, and they have two children. He also has another child with his ex, Alexis Knapp. 

Bridgette Wilson (Elsa Shivers)

Wilson had a dramatically fierce career, both rising and falling from fame in an instant. She was one of the hottest stars of the ’90s, but soon after the turn of the millennium, Wilson retired from acting, leaving Hollywood behind. After IKWYDLS, she starred in House on Haunted Hill (1999) and had supporting roles in The Wedding Planner (2001) and Shopgirl (2005). 

In 2000, she married tennis star Pete Sampras, and they have two children.   

Johnny Galecki (Max Neurick)

Galecki played Max Neurick, one of the fisherman’s first victims. Before joining the cast of IKWYDLS, Galecki was already famous for starring in Roseanne and later reprised his role in numerous episodes of the show’s spin-off sequel The Conners from 2018-2019. 

Most notably, he landed the role as Leonard Hofstadter in The Big Bang Theory. Airing 279 episodes from 2007-2019, the show earned an impressive 55 Emmy nominations. Galecki played the co-lead role as Leonard, an experimental physicist at Caltech who falls in love with his neighbor Penny and lives with his neurotic but lovable roommate Sheldon. The show remains iconic thanks to its lovable cast of oddballs and great humor that often incorporates science and fandom. Off-screen, Galecki has a very private marriage to his wife, Morgan. The two got secretly married in early 2024, and they try to keep their relationship out of the spotlight. 

Anne Heche (Missy Egan)

Heche played Missy Egan, the sister of the man who the group initially thinks might be the killer. Although her part in the movie is relatively small, her unsettling and unnerving performance makes her an instant suspect, creating a great red herring for audiences. 

In 1998, the year following IKWYDLS, Heche had a flourishing career starring in hits like Six Days, Seven Nights and the remake of Psycho. However, due to homophobia, Heche’s career stalled virtually overnight when she announced she was in a relationship with comedian Ellen DeGeneres. In later years, she was able to make a modest comeback, having recurring roles in shows like Hung (2009-2011) and a voice role in the last two seasons of The Legend of Korra (2012-2014). 

Sadly, Heche also suffered from mental illness and had a life filled with ups and downs. In August 2022, she experienced erratic behavior while driving her car through Los Angeles, causing numerous minor accidents before eventually crashing through a residential home, killing her. 

Muse Watson (Ben Willis)

Watson played the hook-wielding killer, Ben Willis. He reprised the role again for the sequel and later went on to have roles in tons more horror films. He starred in some of the Syfy channel’s most iconic original movies, like Dead Birds (2004) and Frankenfish (2004), and appeared in The Last Exorcism Part II (2013). He’s since retired from acting. 

Where To Watch The Cast Of 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' Now 

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Celine Song's critically acclaimed Materialists, which candidly and vulnerably depicts the realities of modern dating, doesn't just promise a resurgence in the romance genre, but it reminds the Internet that Chris Evans has been in this pool for a long, long time. As one of the most versatile stars of our generation, Evans isn't just known for donning the red, white, and blue shield as Captain America but for best portraying some of the biggest heartthrobs in film. 

Beginning a true launch in his career with films like Not Another Teen Movie, Chris Evans is a little too good at playing both the tortured artist and the stereotypical jock. He's also thoroughly well-equipped to ensure that he embodies a role so well, we forget all the others as we're watching. With Materialists soaring globally as one of the most popular films of 2025, here are some of the best Chris Evans romance films and where you can find them on platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and more.

Materialists (2025)

Following her Academy Award-nominated Past Lives (2023), Celine Song returns with the film of the summer, featuring a flawlessly cast trio in Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal. Lucy (Johnson) is a matchmaker who begins a relationship with the suave and charming Harry (Pascal), but all the while, she's still in love with her ex-boyfriend, aspiring actor John (Evans). 

Delivering one of the most realistic and deeply vulnerable romantic monologues of the decade, Chris Evans solidifies to everyone watching that the romance genre is his strength. It's one thing to convey a weighty declaration, but it's another to fully believe the words an actor is uttering, and in Materialists, Evans is a force to be reckoned with. He takes the heartwarming words on the page and ensures they come out of him so naturally that, despite Pascal's undeniable charm as an actor, it's impossible not to root for Evans' John. If you're a romance fan who is tired of the frustrating love triangle trope, Materialists is a uniquely believable take and thoroughly gripping enough to change your mind.

What's Your Number (2011) 

Before he was stealing hearts on Materialists, Anna Faris and Chris Evans reigned in one of the most underrated romantic comedies—What's Your Number? When Ally (Faris) reads an article stating that any woman who has more than 20 exes is unlikely to settle down, she and her neighbor Colin (Evans) attempt to reunite her with one of her exes to avoid surpassing the supposed number. But in true romance form, their ridiculous endeavors draw them closer together, making them fall in love instead. 

What's Your Number? not only features Evans singing, but it also gives him the opportunity to really play on comedic beats that deliver exquisite banter, a plethora of heart, and an emotional character journey. Interestingly, the film also takes place in Evans' hometown, Boston, and with every beat, there's a riveting comfort that spreads throughout the air, making it feel like home to the viewers as well. Cozy, laugh-out-loud funny, and adorably romantic, the movie isn't one to miss. And for fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Evans isn't the only superhero in this movie. A few of his Avenger buddies make the kind of cameo that, while unintentional at the time of filming, is delightful nevertheless. Who? You'll just have to watch to see. 

The Nanny Diaries (2007)

Prior to saving the world in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Steve Rogers and Natasha Romanoff, Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson's characters Annie and Hayden were building a love story in The Nanny Diaries. This isn't the first time the two appear in a film together, as that spot is reserved for The Perfect Score (2004), but it's the first time they play a pair who fall in love. 

Though the film deals with heavier themes such as abuse, parental neglect, and sexual assault, the budding relationship is one worth rooting for. It's certainly not a romantic comedy, given the darker themes, but the hopeful ending makes it a film that's easy to appreciate. Evans' role differs significantly from anything he's done in other films, allowing him to shine with the kind of vulnerability that ensures Annie's character grows to trust him enough to make the romance believable for viewers, too. For viewers who want the exploration of darker themes in their romance films, this one's a solid watch. 

Playing It Cool (2014)

Playing It Cool might just be one of the most absurd romantic comedies with meta themes about writers and the genre as a whole, but Chris Evans' Me is still a relatively charming hero to deal with. The actor's romantic comedy roles frequently feature a grand gesture of some sort, but none bigger than the ultimate of breaking off a wedding. 

The film's wild premise doesn't leave much room to revisit it, but it also stars plenty of great faces to provide entertainment while watching. Interestingly, while there are a myriad of meta romance novels centered around writing and the genre, there aren't many films apart from Playing It Cool. For this reason, it can be a gripping story for viewers wanting the specific exploration with Evans at the forefront. But the viewers who aren't a fan of meta, on the nose, storytelling, then perhaps some of the others on this list would be better.

Push (2009)

If Taylor Swift's "Coney Island," featuring The National, was a romantic relationship, it'd be the one we get between Nick (Chris Evans) and Kira (Camilla Belle) in Push. Paul McGuigan's mostly forgotten sci-fi thriller Push is more of an action film than a romance, but it features some of the most prominent tropes that fans of the genre typically adore, such as second chance, hurt/comfort, and all the mutual pining. 

As they fight against the opposing forces trying to unleash warfare telepathically, Nick and Kira subtly rekindle their love on the sidelines, making the romantic arc the strongest part of the film. The chemistry between Evans and Belle is palpable, allowing every brief scene to sizzle with the kind of heat that's addicting. While there isn't an overt happy ending, it's the type of ambiguous conclusion that evokes enough hope to still find satisfaction in the couple's potential reunion again. If you're a viewer who prefers romance as a secondary plot as opposed to the primary focus and wants a bit of action, too, Push can be an engaging viewing experience. 

Before We Go (2014)

It's worth emphasizing that by the definition of a romance, which guarantees a happy ending, Before We Go is not a romance. Not even close. However, it is Evans' directorial feature and a relatively decent one at that, which gives viewers a solid romantic drama. 

For the viewers who appreciate stories like romantic films like Roman Holiday (1953) that take place within the span of a few hours and underscore how characters change due to these serendipitous meetings, Before We Go is solid. Not as perfect as the undeniable classic, but emotionally charged nonetheless. Also starring Alice Eve alongside Evans, the quiet and vulnerable drama, set in New York, skillfully intertwines themes of loneliness with forgiveness, delivering a film that's worth watching at least once.

Gifted (2017)

Like Before We Go, Gifted isn't a true romance by definition either, but as reluctant uncle and primary caretaker of his seven-year-old niece, Mary (McKenna Grace), Frank Adler is inarguably one of Chris Evans' best performances and allows him to challenge himself as an actor. One night out on the town, Frank makes a connection with Bonnie (Jenny Slate), who also happens to be Mary's teacher. 

While the two of them don't end up in a happily ever after, it isn't hard to assume that by the end of the movie, perhaps there might still be something there. The chemistry is present and sweet throughout, allowing viewers to see how the connection can strengthen with more time spent together. In addition, the role allows Evans to bring to life some of his most vulnerable performances to date in an emotionally cozy film for what it showcases as an exploration of grief, parenthood, freedom, and the found family trope. For the viewers who prefer ambiguous endings, Gifted is a beautiful film on all fronts.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe changed the blockbuster landscape forever, with the interconnected superhero universe quickly becoming the most successful movie franchise of all time. Many elements of the films have become commonplace, chief among them the inclusion of a post-credits scene. Some continue the plot or answer character questions, while others tease future movies. A few even ignore expectations and play the moment for laughs. Sometimes, films have even come with multiple post-credits scenes that play with different tones, building off one another to great effect.

While other MCU films have had strong post-credits scenes (like the fun cameos of Guardians of the Galaxy or the emotional final note for Steve Rogers in Avengers: Endgame), these are the 10 best examples this franchise trend. You can check out all of these films (as well as the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe) on Disney+! 

10. Iron Man 2 (201)

Building on the style that Iron Man had established and The Incredible Hulk had run with, Iron Man 2’s post-credits scene was the first true proof of how far the MCU would be willing to expand the universe. In what would help cement Phil Coulson as a an early constant of the franchise, the Iron Man 2 post-credits scene cuts away to a fallen hammer in the New Mexico desert.

Following two Earthbound takes on big characters like Iron Man and The Hulk, the tease for Thor at the end of Iron Man 2 was a brief but fun little hint toward the tonal juggling act that the franchise was about to embark on to great success

9. Iron Man (2008)

The first MCU film was also the first one to establish the habit of including post-credits teases for future movies, with Iron Man’s relatively straightforward concept opening up an entire world of possibilities. In the post-credits scene, Tony Stark returns home to find Nick Fury waiting for him to discuss the “Avengers Initiative.”

This not only firmly established that the cinematic Marvel Universe expanded far beyond the reaches of Tony Stark’s orbit but also set up The Avengers as the primary pillar of the quickly expanding universe. As a statement of intent and hint toward the future, Nick Fury’s unexpected debut in Iron Man’s post-credits scene is basic but undeniably important.

8. Iron Man 3 (2013)

One of the few completely comedic post-credits scenes in the MCU, the punchline of Iron Man 3’s post-credits scene makes it one of the more memorable in the franchise. Throughout the film, Tony Stark can be heard narrating some of his internal arc, which is treated like a standard cinematic storytelling device. However, the post-credits scene reveals that it’s actually been Tony recounting the events of the film to his friend, Bruce Banner, who is revealed to have nodded off early in the story.

It’s a solid joke about the interconnected nature of the universe, showing how the characters would realistically try to fill one another in about their separate adventures. It’s also perfectly attuned to the comedic style of the film surrounding it.

7. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

After the chaos of Spider-Man: No Way Home, fans might have been expecting a massive lore explanation in the film’s post-credits scene. While the majority of the scene is played for laughs, it laysa seed for a potential crossover with big implications.

After being transported to the primary MCU universe because of the multiversal shenanigans occurring in Spider-Man: No Way Home, Eddie Brock and his symbiote shift briefly from the Venom films to the MCU. However, instead of getting involved in the plot, they hang out, have some drinks, and learn the history of this radically different universe. It’s a good gag that plays into the purposefully goofy Venom films, all while leaving a piece of the symbiote behind that could come into play in the future.

6. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

There are two post-credits scenes in Spider-Man: Homecoming, both of which play off the more playful character-driven tone of the rest of the film. The first one sees Vulture keeping Spider-Man’s identity a secret from other criminals, which also lays the groundwork for potential villain team-ups or conflicts. That little moment does a good job of setting up future storylines while retaining a character focus and connection to Adrian Toomes’ arc in the film.

The second tease is the far more memorable one, however, featuring an extension of Captain America’s lessons about disappointment. It’s one of the funnier beats with Chris Evans’ heroic leader in the MCU and sends audiences off with the same self-aware sense of humor that Spider-Man has been indulging throughout the entire film.

5. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)

While Chris Evans typically played Steve Rogers with a certain seriousness and sweetness, he brought a far fouler sense of humor to his cameo as Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine. Reprising a variant of the superhero role he played in Fantastic Four, Evans delivers the profanity-laced rant that Deadpool credited to him earlier in the film, which led directly to his brutal death at the hands of Cassandra Nova.

It’s a fun meta beat that also allows someone besides Deadpool be the comedian, all while giving comedy veteran Chris Evans a chance to be immature and goofy in a way The Avengers films never gave him the chance to be as Captain America. Deadpool & Wolverine has one of the funniest post-credits scenes in the MCU, through sheer force of Chris Evans’ cursing out the villain alone.

4. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)

A great fusion of the comedic and plot-centric post-credits teases, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings ends the post-credits scene with a fun beat for the titular hero, his best friend Katy, and MCU fan favorite, Wong. The Doctor Strange supporting character appears before Shang-Chi and Katy to bring them into the world of The Avengers, sharing a call with Captain Marvel and Hulk to discuss the potential origins and power of the Ten Rings.

It’s an exciting tease for Shang-Chi’s importance in the future of the MCU—before turning into a fun characterization moment for him, showing the grounded kung-fu master taking Wong out with Katy for a night of drinking and karaoke. While the other post-credits scene about Shang-Chi’s sister assuming control of their father’s assassins is more dramatic and story-centric, the strength of the other post-credits scene lets Shang-Chi go out on a fun note.

3. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

The most emotionally effective of the post-credits scenes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever opens up a new chapter for the future after a heartbreaking movie about loss and grief. Following her battle with Namor, Shuri spends time with Nakia and meets her nephew, Toussaint.

After spending so much time with Shuri as she wrestled with the pain of losing her brother and then her mother, this flash of hope and happiness was the best way to give the film a bittersweet farewell. One of the most emotionally focused of the MCU in terms of themes, it’s fitting that the sequel to Black Panther concluded with an emotional reminder that life carries on and that our loved ones who have passed aren’t completely gone.

2. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

One of the most important post-credits scenes plot-wise in the franchise, Spider-Man: Far From Home’s monumental post-credits scene changed the character’s trajectory in a big way. After returning to New York City with MJ after defeating Mysterio, the MCU debut of J. Jonah Jameson (played by J.K. Simmons after his scene-stealing performance of the same character in the Sam Raimi Spider-Man films) heralded not only the public reveal of Peter Parker’s secret identity but also the accusation that he had killed Mysterio.

The moment led directly to the events of Spider-Man: Far From Home. Unlike many other post-credits scenes in the MCU, Spider-Man: Far From Home’s final moments are a must-see for the future of the franchise and a great little ending note for Phase 3.

1. The Avengers (2012)

The film that cemented the MCU as one of the biggest hits in Hollywood history, The Avengers has two post-credits scenes, which speaks to the tonal versatility of the franchise. Both of these moments are all-time great post-credits scenes, but they are also strong enough to warrant mentioning. The more dramatic of the two firmly establishes Thanos as a new threat for the universe, setting the stage for the next decade of films that crescendoed with the one-two punch of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

The other moment is a far more grounded and silly beat, showing The Avengers taking a breather to have a meal following the events of the film. It’s a low-key and hilarious moment that nails the comedic undercurrent that is crucial to the MCU’s charms and success. It’s the best of both worlds, and the best post-credits scenes in the entire franchise. 

Where To Watch MCU Movies Online 

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

Ironheart is the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) original Disney+ TV series, and the first solo project for one of the MCU’s newest, brightest heroes. The series sees Dominique Thorne reprise her role as Riri Williams (aka Ironheart), as she navigates the fallout from her creation of an iron suit that rivals that of Iron Man.

Newcomers interested in the series or fans in need of a refresher can use our guide to find out which MCU movies and shows they should watch to best understand and enjoy Ironheart.

The Iron Man Trilogy (2008-2013)

The Iron Man movies are perfect to prepare for Ironheart, especially since Ironheart is considered Iron Man’s successor. Iron Man follows Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.), who goes from a playboy billionaire to a superhero after building an iron suit to free himself from a hostage situation. Iron Man 2 and Iron Man 3 see the consequences of his decision as unsavory figures covet his technology, and he suffers the anxiety and weight of being a hero.

While Ironheart isn’t in the Iron Man trilogy, the films explain her situation, including the inspiration for her suit and the problems that technology like hers and Stark's have created, as they continuously struggle to keep it out of the wrong hands. The Iron Man trilogy is an excellent watch to learn about the hero who passed the torch to Ironheart in the MCU.

Doctor Strange (2016) & Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

Doctor Strange tells the story of Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), an acclaimed surgeon whose life changes when a car accident damages his hands. As he searches for an unconventional cure, he finds himself swept into a world of magic where the dark dimension threatens to take over Earth. In the sequel, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Doctor Strange embarks on a universe-hopping adventure to protect America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) from the Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen)

Doctor Strange isn’t directly connected to Ironheart, but it holds an essential introduction to magic in the MCU. Not only does Ironheart’s main antagonist, The Hood (Anthony Ramos), boast magical abilities and a mystical cape not unlike Doctor Strange’s cloak, but the trailer teased Riri herself practicing magic, suggesting Doctor Strange lore may figure significantly into the show.

Back Panther (2018) & Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

The most important movies to watch before Ironheart are the Black Panther films, especially Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever marks Riri’s MCU debut as the unsuspecting MIT student who is pulled into a bitter feud between Wakanda, Talokan, and the rest of the world when her technology is used to detect Wakanda’s precious vibranium. She quickly takes Wakanda’s side and dons her suit to protect its inhabitants. The lasting impact of the events in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will be explored in Ironheart. Meanwhile, the first Black Panther movie is vital to understanding the sequel and the origins of the vibranium race.

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (2022)

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law centers on Jennifer Walters (Tatiana Maslany), the cousin of Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo), who struggles to balance her life as a lawyer with her life as the superhero She-Hulk. The miniseries is relevant to Ironheart due to Episode 4, “Is This Not Real Magic.” In the episode, Donny Blaze (Rhys Coiro) misuses the mystic arts and sends a woman, Madisynn King (Patty Guggenheim), to an alternate dimension where she meets a demon. It’s a rare instance of demons in the MCU that could prove crucial to Ironheart, given that The Hood gains his powers and mystical artifacts from a Nisanti demon.

‘What If…?’ Season 3, Episodes 5-6 (2024)

Viewers will want to watch two episodes of the anthology series What If…? to see alternate versions of The Hood and Riri. What If…? Season 3, Episode 5, “What If… the Emergence Destroyed Earth?,” follows Riri in an alternate world where the Emergence split the Earth apart and led to the rise of the oppressive Federation. Riri joins several other heroes in the Alliance to end the Federation's power. The episode is a wonderful, touching exploration of Riri’s spirit and passion, and also demonstrates how much of an asset she truly is to the superhero world.

Meanwhile, What If…? Season 3, Episode 6, “What If… 1872?,” takes place in an alternate universe where Xu Xialing (Meng'er Zhang) flees to America for a better life, only to succumb to The Hood’s plan to brainwash and enslave Chinese immigrants. While The Hood isn’t the same Hood seen in Ironheart, the episode is a fun introduction to the character, their powers, plans, and those who yearn for their mantle. 

Where To Watch MCU Movies And TV Shows Online

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

Beverly Hills Cop (1984) remains one of Hollywood's freshest fish-out-of-water stories, and over four decades later, Axel Foley's is still a force to be reckoned with. From its 1984 debut right through to Netflix's revival, the franchise has carved its place in action-comedy history. Eddie Murphy's wise‑cracking detective challenged stereotypes and launched an avalanche of buddy cop clones.

While the sequels were a mixed bag of success and failure, the franchise took advantage of the nostalgia trend by releasing Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F in 2024, which earned some of the highest audience approval scores since the original. Since Axel Foley has clearly still got it, here's how to watch all the Beverly Hills Cop movies in order on HBO Max, Prime Video, and more.

Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

Beverly Hills Cop introduces viewers to street-smart Detroit detective Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy), who is thrust into the posh world of Beverly Hills to investigate the murder of his childhood friend Mikey (James Russo), who was mixed up with shady underground dealings. Undercover in disguise, Axel decides to investigate. Along the way, he butts heads and bonds with Beverly Hills detectives.

As the first film in the franchise, Beverly Hills Cop is a masterclass in balancing action and comedy. Murphy's timing is impeccable and his quips land alongside legitimately tense sequences. Viewers who lovedDie Hard (1988) or48 Hrs (1982). will appreciate Foley as the archetype of the clever, streetwise outsider. It's a film that proves Murphy could always carry a blockbuster while remaining effortlessly human.

Beverly Hills Cop II (1987)

Set two years after the first film, Beverly Hills Cop II begins when a wave of brazen Alphabet Crimes plague the citizens of Beverly Hills. The crime spree, in which each heist is marked by a single letter, turns personal when Axel's old friend, Captain Bogomil (Ronny Cox), gets gunned down during an armored car robbery. After hearing about the incident, Axel returns to California.

The sequel leans more heavily into slapstick while still delivering smart detective work. Fans of buddy-cop dynamics, likeLethal Weapon (1987) or21 Jump Street (2012), will enjoy the rhythm of chaos balanced by camaraderie. Murphy's charisma keeps the film afloat, even when plot feels a little forced, making it enjoyable, if slightly uneven.

Beverly Hills Cop III (1994)

Beverly Hills Cop III sees Axel Foley return to sunny Beverly Hills once more following the murder of Inspector Todd (Gil Hill), his boss in Detroit. The trail leads him to a Beverly Hills theme park called Wonder World, which is doubling as a counterfeiting sanctuary. Reunited with Sergeant Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold) and newcomer Jon Flint (Hector Elizondo), Axel works to solve the case.

Sadly, the movie was maligned by critics and audiences. After its disastrous box office performance, Murphy described it as the "weakest film in the series." While it lacks the narrative tightness of its predecessors, Beverly Hills Cop III is still a guilty pleasure. Fans who appreciate Murphy's energy or enjoy action-comedy experiments likeMidnight Run (1988) will find moments of charm amid the chaos.

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024)

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F follows Axel, now seasoned Detroit detective, who is pushed to reconnect with his estranged daughter Jane (Taylour Paige), a hotshot L.A. defense lawyer. When Jane's life is threatened over a cartel-linked murder trial, Axel flips his world upside-down. So teams up with old friends and new allies to protect his daughter.

Although the movie received mixed reviews from critics, it was a hit with viewers and quickly became the most streamed film on Netflix for almost two weeks. The father-daughter angle adds an emotional angle that was not present in the first batch of films. Fans of action-comedies or contemporary buddy-cop films, like21 Bridges (2019), will find this an enjoyable modern update to a classic franchise. 

The Lethal Weapon franchise exploded onto the scene in 1987 with Mel Gibson's death wish-driven Martin Riggs and Danny Glover's straight-laced Roger Murtaugh. At the time, it reshaped the buddy cop template, blending visceral action, razor-sharp dialogue, and a surprising amount of emotion. Its success generated three sequels. And in 2016, the franchise got a slick television reboot.

From diplomatic drug rings to dangerous hitmen, the storylines are packed with substance and swagger. After a shaky start, the small screen translation also found its footing. This franchise is a year-round good time. So here's a complete guide detailing all Lethal Weapon movies and TV shows, which can be found on Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video, in the correct watch order.

Lethal Weapon (1987)

Lethal Weapon follows LAPD narcotics Sergeant Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson), also a former Special Forces soldier, who is hanging by a thread after his wife's death. But everything changes when he's partnered with by-the-books detective Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover), who is just days from retirement. The story of their reluctant bond begins when they investigate the death of a crime boss' daughter.

The film earns its reputation by letting its explosive action breathe alongside grief, guilt, and unlikely friendship. Riggs is a prototype for the broken-but-brilliant detective we've seen echoed in everything from True Detective (2014) to Jack Reacher (2012). Fans who prize character beats as much as bullet casings will find the film surprisingly layered. Its blend of sardonic humor and raw sorrow keeps it from aging into cliché.

Lethal Weapon 2 (1989)

Lethal Weapon 2 sees Riggs and Murtaugh facing off with corrupt South African diplomats smuggling gold while shielded by diplomatic immunity. Following a fear-inducing raid on Murtaugh's family home, the duo is reassigned to protect obnoxious federal witness Leo Getz (Joe Pesci). After an attempt on his life, the pair eventually realizes that the smuggling ring is linked to Leo.

The sequel, which delivers more laughs and more action than its predecessor, was a critical and box office success as it refined everything audiences loved about the original. Riggs' raw edges are still visible, but the story leans into brotherhood under fire. If the first film dissected grief, this one flirts with catharsis. Genre fans who want energy closer to Beverly Hills Cop (1984) will be in their element.

Lethal Weapon 3 (1992)

Retirement looms for Murtaugh in Lethal Weapon 3, but a violent armored car heist pulls him and Riggs back into action. Their investigation exposes a rogue LAPD lieutenant trafficking armor-piercing bullets. Midway, they team up with Internal Affairs sergeant Lorna Cole (Rene Russo), who becomes Riggs' love interest, and Leo Getz returns to stir up chaos.

The film ratchets up the intensity with police shootouts and explosion-packed chases. But there are some somber moments as well. The story does feel a little over the top at times, but the chemistry between its lead stars is still as solid as ever. Fans who enjoy a balance of wild set pieces and evolving character arcs will appreciate the nuance beneath the noise.

Lethal Weapon 4 (1998)

Riggs and Murtaugh return in Lethal Weapon 4, with the stakes higher and more personal than ever. Riggs and Lorna are expecting a baby but haven't quite tied the knot, while Murtaugh finds out his daughter is pregnant and keeping the identity of the father a secret. Their latest case begins with a smuggling bust involving a cargo ship which leads straight into a violent human trafficking operation.

The final entry in the film franchise leans into sentimentality yet never forgets its action pedigree. Jet Li's silent menace reframes the franchise's dynamic, making Riggs and Murtaugh look mortal. Fatherhood, aging, and redemption weave through the chaos, giving the curtain call genuine warmth. Lethal Weapon 4 proves that buddy-cop stories can age gracefully when it remembers the people behind the guns.

Lethal Weapon (TV series, 2016–2019)

The Lethal Weapon television reboot brought the buddy cop formula to the small screen with a modern twist. This time, Damon Wayans steps in as veteran LAPD detective Roger Murtaugh, who is trying to keep his stress levels down. Enter Martin Riggs, played by Clayne Crawford, a Texan former Navy SEAL still spiraling after the tragic death of his wife and unborn child.

Their dynamic is rocky at first, but as the cases mount, so does their bond. Each episode blends fast-paced action with personal stories, echoing the franchise's signature heart-under-fire approach. Viewers who loved Castle (2009) or Hawaii Five-0 (2010) will feel right at home. Especially since the soul of the films can still be felt in each installment.

In 1996, the iconic children's publisher Scholastic debuted a new novel series called Animorphs. The books sees a group of kids receive special powers from an alien named Elfangor. Now, they can take the shape of animals to help protect Earth from an evil parasitic alien species known as the Yeerk. After quickly becoming a massive success, the books received a TV series adaptation that ran for two seasons from 1998-2000. 

Known for its great effects, surprisingly mature storyline, and its often dark sci-fi tones that were genuinely scary, Animorphs developed a loyal cult following among both young and older viewers. In 2000, the series was cancelled, but there’s since been word of a potential movie on the horizon. Read on to find out how to watch Animorphs in order, including info about the potential upcoming film. 

How To Watch 'Animorphs' In Chronological Order

• Animorphs Season 1 (1998)
• Animorphs Season 2 (1999)
• Animorphs movie (TBA) 

Animorphs Season 1 (1998-1999)

In the first season, audiences meet the group of teenagers (changed from kids in the book series) who encounter the alien Elfangor. He tells them that Earth is in great danger from a parasitic alien race known as the Yeerk, which infects people and takes over their bodies, similar to Invasion of the Body Snatchers. To fight the Yeerk, he gives the teens the ability to morph into animals—making them the titular “Animorphs.” 

Meanwhile, a group of infected Yeerk humans have created a cult called The Sharing, which is designed to deceive and manipulate humans into giving up their free will and submitting themselves to the alien race. Throughout the first season, the Animorphs fight the Yeerk and try to convince their friends and families not to give in to The Sharing cult. 

Animorphs Season 2 (1999-2000)

The second season continues the battle between the Animorphs and the Yeerk, but it also introduces other plotlines as well, revealing more about the teens’ lives outside of their supernatural battles. The season also introduced audiences to the android race, the Chee, which originally appeared in Book 10, The Android. 

The book series concluded with the 54th novel, The Beginning, which ended the Animorphs franchise on a bleak note—especially for a children’s book series. It revealed there’s an even bigger alien threat on the horizon called The One, and that the teens are now unsure about whether their actions against the Yeerk were justified or immoral. Complicating their emotional battle further is the realization that The One is now trying to assimilate all life in the universe.

Luckily, the show ended on a much more upbeat note, with the teens celebrating their victory at a school dance. It’s unclear whether the series was cancelled before or after production on the second season wrapped, and whether it was originally intended for more episodes. 

Untitled Animorphs Movie (TBA)

In 2020, it was announced that Animorphs would receive a film adaptation. The Hollywood Reporter revealed the news in an exclusive story, saying that Scholastic was also planning on re-releasing the books as a graphic novel series. “The central themes of Animorphs have resonated strongly with kids for more than two decades,” Scholastic VP Iole Lucchese told the publication, “and the time is right for a feature film that takes this captivating sci-fi adventure to another level for audiences today.”

In 2022, fans got another, somewhat disappointing update. Animorphs co-author Michael Grant posted to X saying that he was distancing himself from the film project, citing “creative differences..” While the news could come as a blow to fans of the franchise, his post still implies that production is underway, which is good news for anyone hoping for a movie. 

Since then, there hasn't been any other publicly announced info on the movie. However, the graphic novel adaptations are underway, with the first being released in 2020, and most recently, the sixth book, The Capture, releasing in March 2025. So the franchise is still very much alive, and the hope for a film lives on.  

Where To Watch 'Animorphs' In Order Online

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

Those familiar with Stephen King know the author likes a good self-reference. To a Cujo reference in Pet Sematary to Dolores Claiborne showing up in one of Jessie’s visions in Gerald’s Game, King has created his own shared universe for his fictional creations. However, one popular theory links two of his most famous villains: Pennywise and Randall Flagg. 

The theory doesn’t just imply Pennywise and Flagg exist in the same universe but that they are the same entity. While it may seem far-fetched, a proven connection already exists between them—a cosmic turtle.

'The Dark Tower' Series And 'It' Are Already Connected

Cosmic turtle? Yup. You read that write. If you haven’t read King’s work, Maturin, also called “the Turtle,” is a cosmic entity credited with creating the main universe where King’s novels take place. While Maturin plays a substantial role in the novel It, Andy Muschietti’s It and It: Chapter 2 regulates him to sneaky references, and the 1990 It miniseries starring Tim Curry mentions him even less. However, the Turtle’s absence from the big screen doesn’t change the fact that Maturin exists and also plays a role in The Dark Tower book series.

There, he functions as one of the 12 Guardians of the Beams. The “Beams” in question refer to the metaphysical girders responsible for upholding the titular Dark Tower. You know, simple stuff? Jokes aside. Maturin plays a vital background role in The Dark Tower books. Although Nikolaj Arcel’s The Dark Tower movie doesn’t mention him, the books effectively link the two stories—and thus the films based on them.

Pennywise And Randall Flagg Have Similarities

Pennywise might be known as everyone’s not-so-favorite dancing clown, but, really, he is just a guise for a cosmic, inter-dimensional entity, which makes It a lot more sci-fi than it appears on the surface. Some associate Pennywise with a giant spider (remember that goofy special effect at the end of the 1990 miniseries? Or the slightly more menacing spider-clown hybrid in It: Chapter 2?). However, Pennywise’s true form is the Deadlights. You know those groovy, orange-yellow lights lurking in the depths of his throat? One look at those babies, and the viewer goes insane, allowing it to feed. 

The Deadlights also exist in The Dark Tower series, appearing when the Crimson King—the story’s big bad—ascends the Dark Tower. While Pennywise never directly features in those books, Randall Flagg does, and some think he and Pennywise are one in the same.

Flagg debuted in 1978’s The Stand but also plays the Crimson King’s right hand throughout The Dark Tower saga. Comparing Pennywise and Flagg side by side reveals a lot of similarities. For starters, both are ancient beings capable of shape-shifting and creating illusions to ensnare their victims. With the Deadlights very much around in the Dark Tower, it’s possible the entity known as Pennywise assumed the form of Randall Flagg—or whatever alias Flagg is going by at the time.

Are Pennywise And Randall Flagg Actually The Same Entity? 

The answer here appears to be...maybe. King himself actually commented on the theory after Screen Rant published an article pitting Pennywise and Flagg against each other. In a since deleted tweet, King wrote, “Have they not considered the possibility that THEY ARE THE SAME ENTITY?” Whether King was dropping a bombshell or just having some fun is unclear, considering he precedes the tease by saying, “Screen Rant asks the question America cares about most (not).” Still, with so much overlap between It and The Dark Tower series, it’s certainly possible.

Even if Flagg and Pennywise are separate beings, entities like Pennywise lurk within The Dark Tower books. Dandelo, known to take the form of a comedian called Joe Collins, feeds on human emotions, like laughter, which sounds a lot like Pennywise’s appetite for fear. King has said the two—though similar—are not the same entity, but the same species. Some even suspect Dandelo may be Pennywise’s offspring since the creature laid eggs in its sewer lair at the end of It.

So, even if Randall Flagg and Pennywise aren’t the same, there is enough evidence to support that Flagg must have crossed paths with entities like Pennywise—if not Pennywise itself—during his inter-dimensional travels.

Where To Watch Stephen King Movies And TV Shows Connected By This Theory Online

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Lindsay Lohan is an icon, particularly to millennial audiences who grew up watching her shine as a child and teen actor in movies like The Parent Trap (1998) and Mean Girls (2004). Following years of personal struggles, Lohan is finally making her long-awaited comeback. In 2021, she signed a deal with Netflix to star in several films on the platform, starting with Falling for Christmas (2022).

Now, Lohan is back in Freakier Friday (2025), the sequel to Freaky Friday (1998), which reunites her with on-screen mom Jamie Lee Curtis. For anyone looking to celebrate her big screen return by revisiting her past work, here are the best Lindsay Lohan movies and where to find them on Disney+, Peacock, and more.

The Parent Trap (1998)

Undoubtedly one of the best performances by a young performer, Lindsay Lohan was so good in The Parent Trap that many viewers assumed Hallie and Annie were played by real identical twins rather than a single actor. In this iconic remake of the 1961 film, Lohan plays twins separated as infants who, upon discovering that they are sisters, hatch a plan to reunite their parents, played by Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson. 

It’s a charming story and an impressive feature film debut for Lohan, who was just 11 years old during filming. On top of being an impressive showing from a young performer, The Parent Trap is simply a movie that the entire family can enjoy together.

Mean Girls (2004)

After The Parent Trap, Mean Girls is Lohan’s most memorable film performance. She plays Cady Heron, a teenage girl who must adjust to a typical American high school after spending most of her life being homeschooled in Africa. Cady quickly learns her school is dominated by popular clique the Plastics, led by Regina George (Rachel McAdams), but her efforts to take down the queen bee cause her to lose sight of herself.

The movie has since received a remake, with Mean Girls (2024) adapting the Broadway musical based on the film. It even features appearances from some of the original cast, including a cameo by Lohan herself. Still, with its endlessly quotable script, relatable story, and memorable performances from Lohan, McAdams, and the rest of the cast, the original Mean Girls more than holds up. It remains one of the best movies ever made about high school alongside the likes of The Breakfast Club (1985) and Clueless (1995).

Freaky Friday (2003)

Lindsay Lohan stars in another family friendly remake: 2003’s Freaky Friday. In it, she and Jamie Lee Curtis play a bickering mother and daughter who switch bodies and must live in the other one’s shoes until they can reverse the magic. Both Lohan and Curtis deliver impressive performances as a teenage girl and a middle aged woman—not to mention a teenage girl pretending to be a middle aged woman and vice versa. 

Though it has been rightly criticized for employing dated Chinese stereotypes, Freaky Friday’s emphasis on cross-generational understanding and mother-daughter bonds remains moving to this day. Like The Parent Trap, this is another Lohan film that’s perfect for a family movie night.

Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (2004)

Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen is perhaps Lindsay Lohan’s most underrated movie. In it, she plays Lola, a theatrical teenager who is frustrated by her family’s move from New York City to a New Jersey suburb. Lola’s many lies and obsession with the superficial made her incredibly unlikable in the eyes of critics at the time. However, 20 years later, Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen is worth another look for its depiction of the rich, complex, and imaginative inner lives of young girls. 

Lola may be selfish and dramatic, but she’s also a teenager responding to big changes in her life and making normal teenage mistakes, and Lohan’s performance makes what could be a frustrating character someone to root for. In an age where authentic stories like Eighth Grade (2018) and Booksmart (2019) depict teens as multifaceted, not always likable, but still worth rooting for are celebrated, Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen deserves to be revisited.

Life-Size (2000)

Life-Size is the first of two made-for-TV movies Lindsay Lohan starred in during the early ‘00s, and one that played at many a sleepover I attended as a child. In it, Lohan plays a young girl who, while trying to resurrect her dead mother, accidentally brings a doll named Eve (Tyra Banks) to life. A sequel, Life-Size 2, was released in 2018, though Lohan was unable to appear in it due to scheduling conflicts. Fortunately for fans, Banks has revealed plans to make another sequel, with Lohan possibly returning for Life-Size 3.

Since its release, Life-Size has been praised for its handling of grief, celebration of girlhood, and the significance of Banks, a Black woman, playing the lead. This was the Barbie movie decades before Barbie (2023), capturing similar fun, magic, and feminist themes. If you enjoyed Greta Gerwig’s film, Life Size makes for a perfect follow-up, especially if you’re planning to watch with young girls who can learn from its positive messages.

Get a Clue (2002)

Lohan’s other made-for-TV movie from the era is Get a Clue, which also stars Amanda Plummer and Brenda Song. The story follows Lexy, a teen journalist with an advice column in her high school newspaper, as she investigates the disappearance of a teacher.

Get a Clue is about as fun, colorful, and predictable as you’d expect from the average Disney Channel Original Movie, so it probably won’t have much appeal to anyone who didn’t grow up with it. Still, it might be worth watching for the early ‘00s fashion choices alone, which are, to put it lightly, bold. 

Herbie: Fully Loaded (2005)

Herbie: Fully Loaded marks the end of an era for Lohan, who was transitioning away from family movie roles at the time. The movie remains the latest installment in the Herbie franchise, which started with 1968’s The Love Bug. In it, Lohan plays Maggie Peyton, the youngest member of a racing dynasty who teams up with a sentient car to carry on the family legacy. 

Reviews for the film are pretty mixed, with most critics agreeing that Herbie: Fully Loaded is really only meant for young children. Still, it’s a fun time for anyone who doesn’t mind a heavy side of corn with their family movie.

Irish Wish (2024)

Of the three movies Lindsay Lohan made with Netflix so far, the romantic comedy Irish Wish is the highlight. It might be far from her best or most beloved film; audiences and critics generally panned it for its predictable writing and weak Irish accents. Still, the movie represents a new era for Lohan, whose performance and chemistry with co-star Ed Speleers were seen as Irish Wish’s bright spots. 

Even if reactions to Irish Wish weren’t the most positive, the movie reminded viewers of Lohan’s star power and talents as a leading lady. If you enjoy rom-coms with a fantasy bent, you’ll likely find the story cute, if shallow, but it’s impossible to not be moved by the stunning natural beauty of Ireland. Between Irish Wish and Freakier Friday, it’s clear Lindsay Lohan is finally back, much to the delight of those of us who grew up on The Parent Trap and Mean Girls.

From iconic franchises to Hitchcock classics and even films based on real serial killers, Netflix is loaded with great slasher movies that center around sadistic killers preying upon their victims. As the largest streaming service (Variety reported that by early 2025, Netflix had amassed over 300 million users), it’s no surprise that Netflix would have a robust collection of horror films. Considering slasher movies are one of the most popular horror subgenres, it makes sense the streamer would have lots to offer.

Here are the best serial killer movies on Netflix right now. 

Scream VI (2023)

Scream VI was a wild sequel that took Ghostface to the Big Apple as he hunted down sisters Sam and Tara Carpenter. This is actually the second time Ghostface has appeared in a major city, following 2000’s Scream 3, which was set in LA. But the change of scenery worked perfectly and gave the franchise a fresh coat of paint and new thrills and chills. Not only did icon Gale Weathers (Courtney Cox) return yet again, but fan-favorite Kirby Reed (Hayden Panettiere) also reprised her role. With all the controversies and the news of casting shakeups, Scream VI also seems to be the final chapter of the Carpenter sisters saga. 

Watcher (2022)

This under-the-radar 2022 stalker movie became a huge hit in early 2025 when it was added to Netflix and quickly hit its Top 10 chart. Watcher centers around an American woman who moves to Bucharest, Romania, to be with her boyfriend. Once there, she notices a strange man following her…all while rumors of an elusive serial killer called “the Spider” fill the town. But her boyfriend refuses to believe her, and being new to a foreign country with no friends, she’s forced to find answers on her own. But will she survive long enough to get the answers she needs?

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022)

In 2022, Netflix added to the confusing and intriguing Texas Chainsaw timeline with its own sequel that completely retconned all the movies except the original 1974 film. Texas Chainsaw Massacre centers around a group of trendy millennials and Gen Zs who try to buy up a small ghost town in the middle of Texas for its land value. Little do they know that Leatherface has been hiding out there all these years. Naturally, once he’s disturbed, the iconic flesh-wearing killer wields his trusty chainsaw once again and guts fly, blood splatters, and innards are disemboweled. 

Creep (2014)

Creep was a little indie film made by (and starring) Mark Duplass. The movie premiered at SXSW in 2014 and saw Duplass star as Josef (aka the Creep), a maniacal psychopath who lures a man to his remote cabin under false pretenses to murder him. Since then, audiences have learned that Josef is actually a serial killer and that he has done this routine with unsuspecting victims numerous times before. Their stories were revealed in the Shudder series The Creep Tapes, which has been renewed for a second season. Creep is so successful thanks to its found-footage style and the absolutely unnerving performance by Duplass.

Woman of the Hour (2023)

Anna Kendrick directed and starred in Woman of the Hour. The movie tells the true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala and how he brazenly appeared on The Dating Game in the middle of his killing spree. In the movie, Kendrick plays Cheryl Bradshaw, the female star of Alcala’s 1978 Dating Game episode, who deemed him the winner and won a date with him. However, after meeting again, Bradshaw refused to go out with him after seeing his bizarre behavior. The movie was a hit for Netflix and earned Kendrick numerous filmmaking awards.  

Psycho (1960)

Often referred to as “the first slasher movie,” Hitchcock’s masterpiece Psycho remains a disturbing and intriguing classic. The movie follows serial killer Norman Bates, who runs a roadside motel and kills travelers. Bates was inspired by the very real killer Ed Gein (who also inspired both Leatherface in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and Buffalo Bill in The Silence of the Lambs), and the movie’s shock reveal (no spoilers here) remains heart-stopping to this day. Psycho is also the movie that gave birth to the iconic shower scene and remains one of Janet Leigh’s most memorable performances. 

Heart Eyes (2025)

It’s a rom-com, and it’s a slasher movie, but it’s also a super-meta film that pokes fun at both rom-coms and slasher movies. Heart Eyes is a brilliant horror movie that has a quick wit and brilliance reminiscent of Scream. In the movie, the “Heart Eyes Killer” murders couples each Valentine’s Day, and this time he’s got his eyes set on two people who aren't actually a couple (or are they?). Plus, the movie is loaded with horror veterans like Jordana Brewster (The Faculty), Devon Sawa (Final Destination), Olivia Holt (Totally Killer), and Mason Gooding (Scream). 

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

Netflix’s original movie Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile premiered at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival and tells the story of serial killer Ted Bundy and the women who loved him. Not only does the film show the killer’s shocking trial, but it also dives into the women who continued to love, protect, and enable him through it all. The movie is all-around shocking and disturbing. Not just because of Bundy’s atrocious crimes but also because of the twisted control he managed to have over multiple women during his life.  

There’s Someone Inside Your House (2021)

In Netflix’s original movie There’s Someone Inside Your House, a group of teens are stalked by a killer who chooses victims who have secrets they deem to be problematic. Obviously, being a teen in the 21st century means all your secrets are online somewhere, and the killer uses this to his advantage. The film also exposes some deeper meanings about privilege, bigotry, and selfishness, which help add some weight to the slasher teen movie. Interestingly enough, There’s Someone Inside Your Houses was directed by Patrick Brice, who also directed Creep (which is also on this list). 

I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)

“What are you waiting for?” (spins around in circles) “What are you waiting for?” One of the most iconic ’90s slasher movies is I Know What You Did Last Summer. Written by Kevin Williamson (the writer behind Scream), the movie follows a group of teens who accidentally hit a man late at night. Thinking he’s dead, they decide to dump his body in the ocean rather than face the consequences of their actions. Unfortunately for them, it turns out the man wasn’t dead, and now he wants revenge. With an all-star ’90s cast that includes Sarah Michelle Gellar, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Freddie Prinze Jr., and Ryan Phillippe, the movie is an iconic classic. 

Where To Watch The Best Serial Killer Movies On Netflix

To discover more about TV shows and movies currently streaming in the US, check out the JustWatch streaming guide! You can filter your search by streaming service, genre, price, age rating, and score. Be sure to build your watchlist and receive helpful notifications on what to watch next based on your preferences!

Diary of a Wimpy Kid started as a series of children’s novels aimed toward ages 8 to 12 by Jeff Kinney, but it has since grown into a huge franchise comprised of movies, video games, and even a stage musical. The series follows Greg Heffley, a self-absorbed and status-obsessed middle schooler who writes about his life under the assumption that he’ll be rich and famous someday.

To date, there have been seven Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies, including four live-action films that were originally released in theaters and three animated ones. If you’re planning a family movie night and aren’t sure where to start with the series, this guide will go over every Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie in order, all of which can be found on Disney+.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010)

The first Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie introduces audiences to Greg (Zachary Gordon) as he enters middle school and discovers the trials and tribulations of this new world. It focuses on Greg’s relationship with his best friend Rowley (Robert Capron) as their new environment and Greg’s pursuit of popularity tests their bond. 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid received mixed reviews, with critics calling Greg an unlikable protagonist—something that’s also made the books controversial. Still, the movie’s humor and animated sequences are charming enough to make it a commercial success and spawn various sequels sure to delight kids of all ages. 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules (2011)

The first film’s success led to Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, an adaptation of the book of the same name. This sequel focuses on Greg’s difficult relationship with his older brother Rodrick (Devon Bostick). Greg and Rodrick’s constant fighting prompts their mother to force them to bond, leading to predictably chaotic results. But even though they’re always getting each other into trouble, the brothers learn that they really do care for one another, even if they have a strange way of showing it.

Quality-wise, Roderick Rules is on par with Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It might not be the most fun watch for parents, but there are enough life lessons here for kids, particularly those with tense sibling relationships, to make it worthwhile.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2012)

The third installment in the series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid; Dog Days combines elements of the books The Last Straw and Dog Days. It centers on Greg’s relationship with his father, Frank (Steve Zahn), who is alarmed by his son’s behavior and considering sending him to military school. Meanwhile, Greg and Rodrick try to impress their crushes, who happen to be a pair of sisters. Dog Days is the last Wimpy Kid movie to feature the original cast, as the child actors were aging out of their roles at this point.

As with the previous Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies, Dog Days likely won’t appeal to viewers outside of the target audience. However, there are some sweet moments of father-son bonding in between the scattered plotlines that make the movie, at the very least, a positive influence.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (2017)

The final live-action Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie is Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, which stars Jason Drucker as Greg, Charlie Wright as Rodrick, and Alicia Silverstone as their mother. It follows Greg and his family as they embark on a road trip to attend Meemaw’s 90th birthday party and the unexpected catastrophes that occur on the road. 

Unfortunately, The Long Haul underperformed at the box office and was even more negatively received than the previous films, which weren’t exactly critical darlings to begin with. That resulted in its planned sequels being canceled. Given that, and the fact that its a completely different cast from previous and future Wimpy Kid movies, The Long Haul isn’t essential viewing unless you really want to watch them all.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2021)

Disney+ original Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2021) serves as a reboot of the movie series, now in animated form. Like the 2010 film, this is an adaptation of the first book in which Greg (Brady Noon) and Rowley (Ethan William Childress) see their friendship tested as they struggle to navigate the start of middle school.

This version of Diary of a Wimpy Kid was more warmly received than the live-action films were, with critics finding animation to be a better medium for the story and praising its positive messages on friendship and individuality. In some way, it makes a better starting point for kids to introduce themselves to the series. 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules (2022)

Like the books and live-action movies before it, the 2021 animated Diary of a Wimpy Kid reboot was followed by another adaption of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules. Once again, Greg and Rodrick (Hunter Dillon) struggle to bond as their antics get each other into trouble, but they are ultimately able to see how much they mean to one another. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules (2022) also features one of the final performances of legendary actor Ed Asner, who died a year before the movie’s release.

This animated version of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules was better received than the live-action adaptation, though some critics found it lacking in comparison to the original book. Regardless, its story still has a good message surrounding themes of sibling rivalry and family.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever (2023)

The final movie in the series so far, Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever is the first of the animated films to adapt a new story. In this one, Greg’s attempts to be good so he can get the latest video game console for Christmas are threatened by a snowball incident and a massive winter storm that leaves the family trapped indoors for a week. 

Cabin Fever received mixed-to-positive reviews, with many praising its focus on character over the crude humor the series is known for. If you’re looking for a Christmas movie to watch with kids in the 8 to 12 age range, Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever is a fun pick.

Let’s be real. There likely would be no Harry Potter without The Lord of the Rings. J. R. R. Tolkien’s first book in the series, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, debuted in 1954 and changed the fantasy genre as the world knew it. From the colorful hillsides of The Shire to the fiery, blackened mountainsides of Mount Doom, no one delivers intricate worldbuilding with sprawling history and invented languages quite like Tolkien. Flash forward 43 years later, and J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone takes the world by storm in a similar way. Both remain two of the biggest fantasy franchises out there—and the similarities between them have sparked no shortage of fan theories.

However, one, in particular, aims to answer one of The Lord of the Rings’ biggest secrets: What happened to the Blue Wizards? Well, according to a compelling theory (largely popularized by a now-deleted Reddit user), they’re roaming the halls of Hogwarts and the seedy underbelly of the Wizarding World as Dumbledore and Grindelwald.

A LOTR Theory Connects The Blue Wizards To Harry Potter

Anyone needing a quick refresher on the Blue Wizards must turn to the Third Age. To combat Sauron, the Valar (angelic beings working beneath the god Eru Ilúvata) sent five other angelic beings called Maiar to Middle-earth. Later, they took the form of Wizards and the names Gandalf, Saruman, Radagast, Alatar, and Pallando. Those familiar with Pete Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy (or Tolkien’s text) know the first two well, while Radagast got his time to shine in The Hobbit movies. However, Alatar and Pallando never got their shot on the big screen because they essentially disappeared in the books.

All that’s known about the two Blue Wizards is that they wandered East, never to be seen again. However, Wizards are immortal unless killed. This fact suggests that LOTR’s most mysterious characters could have lived into the modern age, and given that Middle-earth is an imaginary history of Earth, that puts Harry Potter in the same mythological timeline, just much later down the road. It’s also worth noting that the Maiar can change their physical forms when desired (Sauron, also a Maiar, does this frequently), which could explain Grindelwald’s shapeshifting ability, despite LOTR and Harry Potter's differing magic systems. 

Dumbledore And Grindelwald Are The Blue Wizards

Come Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, we get a whole lot of Dumbledore. For the next five movies (and books), he makes protecting Hogwarts and its students from Voldemort his top priority. While the villain has changed, the mission hasn’t: protecting the free peoples of Middle-earth from the ultimate evil—and yeah, like Sauron, Voldemort is pretty evil. Just like Gandalf couldn’t one-on-one with Sauron, Dumbledor was never meant to take down Voldemort alone. Instead, his involvement was supposed to be indirect by teaching the Hogwarts student body, and especially Harry, how to defeat him.

With his mission complete with his death in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, the Wizard leaves his Earthly body, returning to the Valar and perhaps earning a promotion. After all, the next time Harry sees Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, he is surrounded by ethereal light and decked out in grayish white, similar to Gandalf after his Balrog resurrection and promotion in The Two Towers.

In the opposite corner is Grindelwald, whose story really only gets the spotlight in the Fantastic Beasts film series. Sent to Middle-earth with the same mission as Dumbledore, Grindelwald takes a different path. Much like Saruman, he believes that power—even dark and evil—can be used for the “greater good.” In this case, Grindelwald just happens to feel that the greater good involves ruling over Muggles (humans). Dumbledor puts a stop to it in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore before the bigger, badder evil of Voldemort takes him out completely (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 depicts the scene, slightly altered from the book). This, of course, would mean that Saruman wasn’t the only Maiar to fail the Valar. One of the Blue Wizards, aka Grindelwald, did, too—at least according to this theory.

However, the theory also makes the Valar’s interventions more successful. As it stands, Gandalf was the only Maiar to truly complete his mission: Sauron turned, Radagast fell to the wayside, and the Blue Wizards dipped out. However, if one of the Blue Wizards was actually Dumbledor, then he also succeeded in the fight against evil, just at a very different point in history. Grindelwald might have fallen, but good ultimately prevailed in the end.   

Is Lord of the Rings Actually Connected to Harry Potter? 

The short answer is no. There is no confirmation from Rowling that the Harry Potter Universe shares space with The Lord of the Rings, and Tolkien passed away decades before Harry Potter hit shelves.

Plus, both Dumbledore and Grindelwald have families, which throws a wrench in the whole idea that they dropped down onto Middle-earth in the Third Age, naked and alone. Still, it’s a fun idea that certainly works to explain what happened to the Blue Wizards since not even Tolkien had an explanation for their disappearance.

Where To Watch All 'LOTR' And 'Harry Potter' Movies Connected By This Theory Online

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The Last Rodeo is a strong new addition to the faith-based film category. Perfect for family movie night, the film mixes faith with an inspiring sports comeback storyline. There’s even a bit of a Western vibe with bull riding and Neal McDonough’s rugged, cowboy-esque Joe Wainwright.

Viewers interested in more films about faith, sports, and rodeos can use our guide to find out where to watch the best movies like The Last Rodeo on platforms like Prime Video, Netflix, and more.

Soul Surfer (2011)

Soul Surfer is a faith-based and sports comeback film made all the more inspiring by the fact that it’s based on a true story. The movie tells the story of Bethany Hamilton (AnnaSophia Robb), who lost her arm in a shark attack while surfing as a teenager. After the attack, Bethany is determined to return to surfing, relying on her faith, strength, and an eye-opening mission trip to guide her comeback. Like The Last Rodeo, Soul Surfer follows an athlete returning to the sport against incredible odds. They are, first and foremost, inspirational, family-friendly films with a nice dosage of faith and sports.

The Natural (1984)

While not a faith-based film, The Natural is just as inspiring as The Last Rodeo with its incredible comeback story. The Natural follows Roy Hobbs (Robert Redford), who, as a young baseball prodigy, had his career derailed when Harriet Bird (Barbara Hershey) shot him. Sixteen years later, he starts his career over again as a rookie with a struggling baseball club. Considered one of the best sports movies ever made, The Natural is a sentimental, inspiring, and profoundly moving story about success, failure, and resilience. Both The Natural and The Last Rodeo also emphasize the beauty of second chances.

Cinderella Man (2005)

Cinderella Man tells the true story of James J. Braddock (Russell Crowe), whose boxing career ended early due to a hand injury. However, when his manual labor boss offers him a chance back in the ring, he seizes the opportunity in a rags-to-riches story that earned him the nickname “Cinderella Man.” While not a faith-based film, Cinderella Man parallels The Last Rodeo in that it centers on the underdog tale of someone returning to a dangerous sport and having to reconcile their dreams and goals with their responsibilities to their family. Both films offer a nice blend of sentimentality and heart-pounding sports action.

Facing the Giants (2006)

Facing the Giants is a Christian sports drama from director, actor, and pastor Alex Kendrick. In the film, Grant Taylor (Kendrick) is the coach of a struggling high school football team. Facing personal and professional frustrations, Taylor decides to approach life with gratitude, regardless of the outcome, and slowly sees things improve. Facing the Giants is an excellent choice for viewers who loved The Last Rodeo and want a film that leans a little heavier into religion than sports. While there are some inspiring sports sequences, the bigger story is a heartwarming tale about living a life guided by faith and gratitude.

Overcomer (2019)

Overcomer is another Kendrick film that finds the perfect balance between religion and sports. Kendrick, again, takes on the role of a high school coach, but this time he’s John Harrison, a basketball coach who reluctantly agrees to coach the school’s floundering cross-country team. While Hannah (Aryn Wright-Thompson) is the sole student on the team, Harrison quickly recognizes her talent, though she must overcome her struggle with asthma and a difficult family life. Overcomer is the perfect faith-based sports film for running enthusiasts. Meanwhile, it shares The Last Rodeo’s blend of faith, sports, and family, as both movies see their main characters mend long-broken family bonds.

Woodlawn (2015)

Woodlawn is a faith-based sports film from the Erwin brothers. It is based on the true story of Tony Nathan (Caleb Castille), who becomes one of the first Black football players at the newly desegregated Alabama Woodlawn High School in the 1970s. At first, it feels impossible for the team to overcome racial tensions until a religious motivational speaker inspires the players to embrace faith and love. Woodlawn is similar to The Last Rodeo in that it has an inspiring, gripping story of faith and sports. However, it goes a bit deeper in that it also examines racial tensions at the time and imbues a powerful message of love and forgiveness in the story.

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019)

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind isn’t a faith-based or sports film. However, like The Last Rodeo, it centers on protagonists who must overcome incredible odds to provide for their families or village in the face of a crisis. In The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, young, brilliant engineer William Kamkwamba (Maxwell Simba) works to build a windmill to save his village from a famine. It’s a powerful, inspiring film that beautifully captures human resilience and innovation. The Last Rodeo and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind beautifully demonstrate how the human spirit and mind can shine in the darkest times.

The Blind Side (2009)

The Blind Side is a biographical sports drama that delves into the childhood of professional football player Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron). In the film, Michael is a teenage boy in and out of the foster system. His life changes when Leigh Anne (Sandra Bullock) and Sean Tuohy (Tim McGraw) take him in and support his football talent. While The Blind Side’s accuracy has been contested, it’s still a highly inspiring sports film demonstrating the power of having a strong support system. Like The Last Rodeo, it’s a film about how a family’s support, love, and encouragement can make or break an athlete.

8 Seconds (1994)

Viewers intrigued by the bull-riding aspect of The Last Rodeo will love 8 Seconds. 8 Seconds follows the life of Lane Frost (Luke Perry), a professional bull rider seeking to be the best he can be while also navigating a turbulent relationship in his personal life. The film also captures Frost’s incredible feat of being the first to ride the notorious Red Rock bull for at least 8 seconds. 8 Seconds is a beautiful, heartfelt tribute to Frost filled with inspiration, dazzling bull-riding sequences, and an irresistible cowboy vibe. It’s one of the best films to delve into the world of rodeos with.

The Longest Ride (2015)

The Longest Ride is an excellent option for The Last Rodeo fans seeking a bit more Western vibes and romance. The movie tells the story of aspiring bull rider Luke (Scott Eastwood) and art student Sophia (Britt Robertson), who struggle to combine their very different lives while guided by the love story of an older couple, Ira (Alan Alda) and Ruth (Naomi Eckhaus). The Longest Ride focuses more on love than faith and sports. However, it boasts the same sentimental, earnest tone of The Last Rodeo, as both examine what it means not just to play sports for glory but to do so for family.

Where To Watch The Best Movies Like 'The Last Rodeo' Online

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Usagi Tsukino (Serena in the US version) is pretty much your typical superhero: a student by day, a heroine by night. And she, and her Sailor Scouts, were quite a hit when the 1990s anime adaptation of Sailor Moon premiered. There were, after all, plenty of superheroes, but not many who were also just regular high school girls, and teenagers ate it up in every medium. The Sailor Moon manga (1992–1997), created by Naoko Takeuchi, sold over 46 million copies worldwide.

In 2014, there was even a remake: Sailor Moon Crystal (2014–2016), and the story concluded with several movies. Here is how to watch all Sailor Moon movies and TV shows in order and where to stream them. 

Sailor Moon (1992-1997)

The main anime follows Usagi Tsukino and her team of Sailor Scouts (Sailor Mercury, Sailor Mars, Sailor Jupiter, and Sailor Venus) as they fight for love and justice. It all starts when Usagi meets a magical black cat named Luna, who gives her an amulet that allows her to transform into Sailor Moon. From there, Usagi must reunite with her team of scouts, discover her past life, and fight against new and old enemies to protect innocents. Oh, she must also find all the pieces of the Legendary Silver Crystal, which have been lost to Earth. That’s all.

Sailor Moon R: The Movie – The Promise of the Rose (1993)

Sailor Moon R: The Movie - The Promise of the Rose, which was released after Sailor Moon Season 2, Episode 75, can be watched after Season 2 of the show, as it follows the storyline from that season. It can also be watched after the entirety of the show if preferred. It centers on the arrival of an alien named Fiore, who shares a past with Mamoru Chiba (Darien in the US version), Usagi’s rival turned boyfriend. Fiore is set on reuniting with Darien but is being controlled by an evil flower called the Xenian Flower, which forces the Sailor Scouts to rescue both the guy and Earth from Fiore’s destruction. 

Sailor Moon S the Movie: Hearts in Ice (1994)

Also released after one of the Sailor Moon episodes, specifically Episode 116, Sailor Moon S the Movie: Hears in Ice can be watched after the third season of the show or after finishing the show compeltely. It focuses on Luna, the cat and, in many ways, the guide to Sailor Moon, and her romantic feelings for a human, Kakeru. As if that weren’t enough, there’s also an evil Snow Queen, Kaguya, who wants to freeze Earth. The Sailor Scouts are forced to work together to stop the Snow Queen, with Luna’s feelings for Kakeru proving more important than anyone could have imagined. 

Sailor Moon SuperS: The Movie - Black Dream Hole (1995)

Released after Episode 158 of the series in Season 4, Sailor Moon SuperS: The Movie - Black Dream Hole can also be watched after the season, as it’s a completely separate story from the events of the main season. In the movie, children around the world start to disappear thanks to the evil Queen Badiane, who is plotting to trap Earth in a dark energy field called the Black Dream Hole, which will place everyone in an eternal sleep. As always, it’s up to the Sailor Scouts to stop her. Except this time, the bad guy is coming for one of their own.

Sailor Moon Crystal (2014-2021)

Sailor Moon Crystal is basically a remake of the original anime, with less filler and being much more faithful to the original manga. Gone is most of the original material from the first series, but this pretty much follows the same beats anyway. Luna finds Usagi. Usagi becomes Sailor Moon. She finds the rest of the Sailor Scouts. They fight for love and justice and protect people, all while trying to find the pieces of the Legendary Silver Crystal. The show went on to have three seasons, which are the equivalent of the first three seasons of the original Sailor Moon.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Eternal: The Movie (2021)

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Eternal: The Movie is a two-part movie that basically covers the events of Season 4 of the original Sailor Moon, aka the Dream Arc. In this arc, a dark power makes a total solar eclipse happen, leaving the Earth in darkness and forcing the scattered Sailor Scouts to reunite to bring light back to the world. This is a streamlined version of the arc, without any fillers, that clocks in at a little over two and a half hours for both parts and makes sure the story of the Sailor Scouts continues.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie (2023)

The final Sailor Moon movie, also released in two parts, Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie adapts the arc from Season 5 of the original series, aka the Stars arc. This takes the story to the same place where the manga ends, starting with Mamoru’s disappearance and everything that happens after he goes missing—including how that changes Usagi and Usagi’s final battle with Sailor Galaxia. Clocking in at more or less the same time as the previous movie, 2 hours and 40 minutes, this one’s a must-watch for anyone who has watched any part of Sailor Moon Crystal.

Sailor Moon Movies And TV Shows Storyline Order

Not sure what the right watch-order is? If you want to be very, very specific, here’s the order you should watch the shows and movies to make sure you consume the story in the order it was meant to be watched.

• Sailor Moon Seasons 1-2
• Sailor Moon R: The Movie - The Promise of the Rose
• Sailor Moon Season 3
• Sailor Moon S The Movie: Hearts in Ice
• Sailor Moon Season 4
• Sailor Moon Super S: The Movie - Black Dream Hole
• Sailor Moon Crystal Seasons 1-3
• Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Eternal: The Movie, Part 1 & 2
• Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie, Part 1 & 2

Where To Watch All 'Sailor Moon' Movies And TV Shows Online

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In the world of Highlander, there can be only one immortal, but the franchise itself refuses to die. Debuting in 1986, the Highlander franchise follows a centuries-long war of dueling Immortals, with the series taking its name from its lead character, who is traditionally a Scottish highlander. 

Today, the series has an expansive run, including movies, TV shows, comic books, video games, and more. Now a reboot is in the works, with the likes of Henry Cavill, Russell Crowe, and Dave Bautista stepping into the upcoming Chad Stahelski-helmed Highlander. Until then, the original run still has some incredible stories, and we’ve got all the ways you can watch them on platforms like Peacock and Starz. 

Highlander (1986)

Connor MacLeod is a Scottish highlander who discovered he is an Immortal. Driven by The Game, Immortals kill each other throughout history, beheading one another until only one remains and then acquiring the unknown Prize. Now, The Game is drawing to a close, and the remaining Immortals have coalesced upon New York City. This science-fantasy epic adventure features surprising amounts of depth, humor, and romance as it retells the centuries of MacLeod’s lonely and violent life. 

While years of poorly received sequels have let down fans, the original Highlander remains a work of art anchored by incredible performances from Christopher Lambert, Clancy Brown, and Sean Connery. When the movie isn’t indulging in swashbuckling action, it’s embracing a surprisingly heartfelt plot about the cost of immortality and the power of love. Highlander is an incredible slice of ‘80s science-fantasy, and one that any fan of either genre should definitely see. 

Highlander II: The Quickening (1991)

While the greater Highlander franchise may have become something lauded, Highlander II: The Quickening left fans wishing there truly was only one. Set in the far off future (at the time) of 2024, MacLeod has won his mortality and uses his decades of intelligence to build a shield to protect Earth from a depleted ozone layer. What follows, however, is one of the wildest retcons ever. The Immortals are revealed to actually be aliens exiled to Earth by a fascist regime, where they gain immortality. When more aliens arrive, MacLeod’s immortality returns, and The Game begins again. 

Highlander II is regarded as one of the worst sequels ever made, and rightfully so. A lengthy time skip erases everything of note from the original’s finale, while a massive retcon and hand-waved revival of Sean Connery’s Ramirez raise more questions than they do answers. The action is fine, but there’s not a lot of it, either. Highlander II is just frankly too weird for its own good, and an absolute disaster of a film. 

Highlander: The Series (1992-1998)

In the shadow of the original film’s success came Highlander: The Series. English martial artist Adrian Paul takes the lead here as Duncan MacLeod, a Scottish Highlander raised by Connor’s clan. Lambert even shows up in the pilot to establish the new continuity, which ignores the ending of the first film, while the show politely never asks what Connor is doing afterward. 

Highlander: The Series redefined what it meant to be a syndicated series, along with definitive shows like Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) and Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (1995). Today, the show is remembered for its broader storytelling, fleshing out the shadowy world of Immortals and those who are impacted by it. The result is a series that keeps a quick pace, so you can jump in anytime, and one that isn’t afraid to indulge in its own expansive mythology. If you’re looking for a breezy watch that doesn’t ask for too much commitment, this is an easy binge. 

Highlander III: The Sorcerer (1994)

Following the success of Highlander: The Series, the film franchise returned for a third outing. Highlander III: The Sorcerer follows the canon of the first film, with Connor attempting to live in peace with his new mortality, having left New York following the death of his lover. It is revealed another Immortal, Kane, was excluded from The Game because he was buried in a mountain by an ancient Japanese sorcerer. His escape restarts The Game, and MacLeod must return to New York to reclaim his mortality. 

Highlander III was a modest success, likely thanks to the popularity of the TV show, but like Highlander II, it’s just weird. It very quickly handwaves away everything good about the original’s finale, and this time supplements middling action with bizarre magic. Ultimately, Highlander III is better than its predecessor, but it’s still just a weak copy of the original. 

Highlander: The Animated Series (1994-1996)

Released in 1994 and aired on USA Network to capitalize on the success of Highlander: The Series reruns, Highlander: The Animated Series again sets itself apart as a bizarre alternate history. Set in a post-apocalyptic Earth, Immortals, including Connor MacLeod, swear to preserve humanity’s knowledge instead of participating in The Game, but are all slain by a rogue Immortal, Kortan. Years later, young immortal Quentin learns he is the foretold Last of the MacLeods. With help from one of the remaining Immortals and Connor’s former master, Ramirez, Quentin sets out to stop Kortan to regain the lost knowledge and powers of the Immortals. 

The series is a bizarre product of its time, and it’s hard to recommend in today’s environment. Highlander: The Animated Series boasts a surprisingly mature narrative and (for the medium) violent action for its time, but it’s still a mid ‘90s Saturday morning kids cartoon, so you can expect the same quality of action and writing as every other studio trying to dethrone the Ninja Turtles. 

Highlander II: The Renegade Version (1995)

It wasn’t common for directors to get another chance at their films in the ‘90s, but Highlander and Highlander II director Russell Mulcahy took the chance. Following the massive disappointment of Highlander II: The Quickening and the success of Highlander: The Series, Mulcahy created a stunning recut, dubbed Highlander II: The Renegade Version. 

Mulcahy’s director’s cut is extensive. All mentions of the Immortal alien planet are removed, with those scenes now reframed as flashbacks to a lost civilization. Ramirez and MacLeod are no longer banished to Earth, but banished to different places in time. There’s only so much that could be done, as Mulcahy was limited to cut scenes and existing footage by this point, but the effort is really impressive. The Renegade Version isn’t a complete 180 on Highlander II, but it is a significant improvement and easily the only version of Highlander II worth watching. 

Highlander: The Raven (1998-1999)

By Season 6, Highlander: The Series was winding down, and all eyes turned to a potential spin-off. Multiple backdoor pilots air during the show’s final season, but it was ultimately decided to go with a spin-off focused on Duncan’s Immortal associate Amanda. A notorious thief, Amanda is inspired to seek redemption, allying herself with a mortal detective, Nick Wolfe, and facing off against evil Immortals. 

Amanda was a popular aspect of the original series, but Highlander: The Raven doesn’t have the same impact as the original with its middling will-they-won’t-they romance teases and tired enemy-of-the-week format. Even today, The Raven is an exhausting experience with some good performances and the promise of a better second season (which would have seen Amanda and Nick at odds after Amanda’s actions left him an Immortal as well) that never came. This is a good watch if you’re a completionist, but you can also just skip over this one. 

Highlander: Endgame (2000)

2000 saw the end of an era, as Connor and Duncan MacLeod joined forces for a single film, one meant to cap off both their tales in one fell swoop. Highlander: Endgame sees the MacLeods team for the first time since Highlander: The Series’ pilot episode, establishing a mixed continuity where the first film took place, but Connor did not actually win The Prize. The two are challenged by Jacob Kell, an Immortal who ignores the revered rules of The Game, putting the two at a disadvantage. 

The film failed to impress at the box office, and it also failed to impress fans. By this point, Christopher Lambert’s eyesight had deteriorated to the point that the sword fights were difficult, so action scenes were few and far between. Ultimately, Endgame winds up feeling like a long-ish episode of Highlander: The Series, and that’s just not good enough for a film that was supposed to be the grand send-off for two titans of science-fantasy. 

Highlander: The Search for Vengeance (2007)

A fourth MacLeod enters the scene in 2007, though he is in his own separate continuity. Anime action flick Highlander: The Search for Vengeance follows Colin MacLeod, an Immortal who first died during the age of the Roman Empire. The film follows Colin’s 2000 years of life as an Immortal swordsman, on a quest for vengeance that takes him throughout history’s greatest events and in conflict with terrifying immortals. 

Released in an era where the franchise was mostly dormant, Highlander: The Search for Vengeance was positively received by fans. It’s an exciting anime adventure with a lot of crisp animation and fun storytelling. This is the animated adventure that Highlander fans have been longing for, but it’s well worth a watch even for just the standard anime fan if you can track down a copy. 

Highlander: The Source (2007)

Highlander: The Source was meant to kickstart the franchise for a series of new stories. Instead, it may have killed it dead in its tracks. Adrian Paul returns as Duncan, following the continuity established by Highlander: Endgame. Years in the future, after the Earth’s societies have collapsed, Duncan and a band of rebels seek the mythical Source of Immortality, all while being chased by a powerful Immortal known as The Guardian. 

Highlander: The Source somehow manages to be worse than even Highlander II, and it was so bad that it killed the plans to reboot the franchise. Even those who worked on The Source and The Series disregard it, referring to the film as a nightmare Duncan had. This is the absolute lowpoint of the Highlander franchise, a nonsense plot with a contrived ending and little-to-no memorable action. It’s better to just pretend this one didn’t happen.

Kevin Smith broke out in Hollywood with the View Askewniverse, which remains one of modern cinema’s most consistent and surprisingly emotional comedy series. Starting with his debut film Clerks, the writer/director has made a habit of frequently returning to the universe throughout his career. Although Smith has branched out with other titles, like Red State (2011) or The 4:30 Movie (2024), and delved into the realms of television and comics, his most beloved works tend to be connected to the shared universe of his usually New Jersey-set films.

Melding stoner comedy with the vulnerable indie spirit of the 1990s, Smith’s View Askewniverse ends up creating a sprawling story with a couple of recurring characters and central themes. With Jay and Silent Bob (played by Jason Mewes and Kevin Smith himself) serving as consistent witnesses to a variety of tales across the shared universe, the View Askewniverse gradually became a nearly 30-year exercise in Smith bringing his life to the big screen. Here’s each entry in the View Asewniverse and the correct order to watch them on Apple TV+, Kanopy, and more.

Clerks (1994)

The first entry in the View Askewniverse and Kevin Smith’s feature debut as a filmmaker, Clerks is a great (if low-key) starting point for the series.The movie’s grounded but profanely goofy world introduces characters who will endure for the entire series, like Dante, Randal, and the stoner duo of Jay and Silent Bob. While the former two are the film’s protagonists (a role they will come back to twice over), Jay and Silent Bob’s wandering adventures make them the true connecting thread of the series.

What makes Clerks especially engaging in retrospect is the way its nerdy humor and heartfelt vulnerability connected with audiences. At a time when other grounded approaches to Gen X, like Sex, Lies, and Videotapes (1989), were catching audience attention, Clerks wasn’t afraid to fly its geek flag high. It’s a great introduction to the style of comedy and storytelling that will persist through the entire series, albeit grounded in a way that even the later realistic stories set in this universe can’t quite match. One of the most successful indie films of all time, Clerks is the beginning of the View Askewniverse and a strong foundation for what was to come.

Mallrats (1995)

Clerks established the View Askewniverse, but Jay and Silent Bob’s return in Mallrats solidified the larger universe of films. Similar to Clerks, the duo are supporting players in the film who largely serve as comic relief. Mallrats is a broader swing than Clerks, with more focus on the gross-out gags than the emotional touches. The film suffers as a result, with Mallrats among the entries in the series that have aged the worst. Still, a complete run of the View Askewniverse has to take a stop at the mall with Brody and T.S. 

Mallrats is far more akin to the ‘90s mainstream sex comedy vibes of American Pie (1999) than the far more low-key Clerks. There are some amusing beats and bits, but this one is really only for completionists and fans of retro gross-out comedies. The film’s most important contribution to the world of film (beyond establishing that Smith’s movies would largely exist in a shared universe) was the inclusion of Stan Lee in a brief comedy role, establishing his on-screen persona that would later evolve into his famous Marvel Cinematic Universe cameos.

Chasing Amy (1997)

Chasing Amy was a major showcase for Smith, a real showing of his vulnerability as a filmmaker that may not have aged perfectly, but remains a compelling look at a flawed person trapped in a romantic tangle nonetheless. Chasing Amy focuses on comic book creators Holden McNeil and Banky Edwards, whose working relationship gets dragged into Holden's unexpectedly complicated romance with Alyssa, who identifies as a lesbian. Bold for its time and still potently vulnerable years later, Chasing Amy feels like the follow-up to Clerks’ more introspective moments and elements.

The biggest source of the traditionally goofy View Askewniverse comedy comes from Jay and Silent Bob, who appear in the film as creative collaborators with Holden and Banky. The stoner superheroes based on them, Bluntman and Chronic, become a recurring element throughout the series and even get an in-universe film adaptation. This little bit in Chasing Amy serves as the impetus for several future entries in the series and gives the movie most of its comedy, while the central plot is a character dramedy focus, similar in tone to other acclaimed romantic dramedies of the time like Before Sunrise (1995) or Reality Bites (1994).

Dogma (1999)

Kevin Smith’s most ambitious movie, Dogma, is a silly exploration of faith and redemption that also happens to feature giant poop monsters. Shifting focus to Bethany, the modern-day descendant of Jesus, Dogma forces her on a quest to stop two renegade angels from returning to heaven and thereby ending the world. Dogma is Smith’s version of a fantasy epic, expanding the View Askewniverse in a way that no previous (or later) entry really has. Openly fantastical thanks to the inclusion of a muse, an apostle, and a devil in the search for God, Dogma is perfect for fans of fantasy comedies. 

The biggest connection to the rest of the series remains Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes as Jay and Silent Bob. Dubbed “the prophets” by the Metatron, the pair end up accompanying Bethany and helping out in the fight against Bartleby and Loki. Big, bold, unapologetically funny but unwavering in its faith about the complicated goodness and sympathetic flaws of life, Dogma is the best entry in the View Askewniverse and pushes the boundaries of what this series could do. 

Clerks: The Animated Series (2000-2001)

One of two animated entries in the View Askewniverse, Clerks: The Animated Series is a wacky addition to the series that doesn’t have much of an impact on the rest of the universe. The show brings back Randal and Dante, but leans into the animated medium for a more over-the-top and goofy approach to the characters. Often paired up with Jay and Silent Bob, Clerks: The Animated Series bears a tonal similarity to the likes of South Park (1997) and the early Adult Swim shows like Aqua Teen Hunger Force (2000) and SeaLab 2021 (2000). 

Infamously taken off the air after only a few episodes, Clerks: The Animated Series is a light and pretty funny diversion for the View Askewniverse. Similar to the way Dogma pushes the limits of the setting and allows for more ambitious genre swings, Clerks: The Animated Series leans into the bigger comic potential of being a cartoon. It’s a quick, perfectly silly aside for fans of the View Askewniverse.

Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001)

Originally intended to close the book on the View Askewniverse (ending with a cameo from the God of Dogma literally doing just that), Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back is a funny victory lap for the series that brings back lots of familiar faces. While the cross-country comedy about Jay and Silent Bob trying to stop the Bluntman and Chronic movie from going into production works just fine for regular audiences, the frequent cameos and references to the previous movies in the unofficial series make it a more fulfilling watch for longtime fans.

Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back is the right level of irreverent to make up for its barebones arcs, indulging in characters played by Will Ferrell and a hilariously self-aware Mark Hamill to great effect. Ending on a Morris Day and the Time concert, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back is a goofy would-be ending for the series that is perfect for anyone who likes the go-for-broke comedy of Half Baked (1998), Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997), or BASEketball (1998).

Clerks 2 (2006)

Revisiting the View Askewniverse five years after initially saying goodbye to it, Kevin Smith reflected on his experience entering middle age with the crass and emotional Clerks 2. Randal and Dante return, having shifted from the burned-down convenience store to a fast food restaurant. Much of the film is rooted in the love triangle Dante finds himself in. Clerks 2 works really well as a retrospection on the nature of friendship, especially ones that can take on some toxic elements despite the enduring bond between. 

A similar beat exists between Jay and Silent Bob, who return as supporting comic relief and carry on their role as the connective tissue between the various entries of the series. Clerks 2 feels true to the original while being rooted in a new, more mature emotional place. Clerks 2 is closer to the more emotional era of comedies, like Knocked Up (2007), than the broad comedy of something like Mallrats, making it a worthwhile revisit to Jersey for fans of Clerks.

Jay & Silent Bob's Super Groovy Cartoon Movie! (2013) 

Jay and Silent Bob’s Super Groovy Cartoon Movie! is probably the least essential entry in the View Askewniverse, but it is a fun time for fans who enjoy the wacky comedy of Clerks: The Animated Series. The film serves as a realization of the Bluntman and Chronic storyline from earlier films in the universe, a feature-length superhero parody that leans wholeheartedly into the sophomore style of comedy. 

With the kind of jokes that Rick & Morty (2013) would perfect in later years, and a sense of humor akin to a stoner Batman ‘66, the silly superhero parody is a lighthearted but fittingly funny expansion of the series in a throwback way. Although the film doesn’t really bring back too many characters from the previous films beyond Jay and Silent Bob, it is fun to see the over-the-top concepts from the in-universe franchise finally realized in their full goofball potential.

Jay and Silent Bob Reboot (2019) 

Bringing the spotlight back to Jay and Silent Bob, Jay and Silent Bob Reboot offers Smith a chance to use the View Askewniverse to comment on the nature of film reboots, nostalgia, and legacy. Focused on the titular pair once again traveling across the country in a bid to prevent a movie from getting made, the emotional core of Jay and Silent Bob Reboot makes it one of the better examples of the legacy sequel that actually cares about showing the characters grow up. 

A perfect companion piece to Bill and Ted Face the Music (2020), Jay and Silent Bob Reboot works a lot better than it really should, with an emotional core helping to ground a movie that puts Silent Bob in an Iron Man armor and has him impersonate the Grand Wizard of the Klu Klux Klan to help fool a band of racists.

Clerks III (2022)

The most recent entry in the View Askewniverse at the time of writing, Clerks III is a deeply emotional farewell to one of the characters that helped establish the series in the first place. Taking place years after Clerks 2 and expanding the tragic life of Dante afterward, the movie takes on an autobiographical element when Randal decides to make a movie about his time at the Quick Stop. The result is a tribute to the legacy that Clerks set up for him, all while giving Kevin Smith a chance to reflect on getting older and his experience turning his life into material for his films.

Clerks III is perhaps the most emotional entry in the View Askienverse series, a raw nerve of a movie that lets Randal and Dante go deep in some pretty dramatic ways and effectively serves as a farewell for the characters. Closer to something like The Descendants (2011) or The Big Chill (1983) rather than most of the stoner comedy that filled many entries in the series, Clerks III is the biggest vulnerable swing Smith has ever taken and a perfect capstone to the View Askewniverse. If you like Kevin Smith at all, this is a must-watch. 

R. L. Stine is one of the most prolific writers of horror fiction for children and teen readers. Considered the “Stephen King of children’s literature,” Stine has written over a hundred books for young readers, many of which have been adapted to TV and film.

Most recently, Netflix released the adaptation of his novel The Prom Queen, which marks the fourth installment in the Fear Street film series. Viewers interested in Stine’s adaptations can use our guide to find out how to watch them all in release date order on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and more.

Goosebumps (1995-1998)

Goosebumps marked the first adaptation of Stine’s book series of the same name. It is an anthology series, with each episode or two-part episode adapting one of the Goosebumps books. Anthology TV adaptations of children’s books were quite rare at the time, as were horror series for young viewers. However, Goosebumps proved successful, running for four seasons and helping kickstart the careers of actors like Ryan Gosling and Hayden Christensen. It perfectly blended fantasy, horror, and child-friendly entertainment for young viewers in the ‘90s and proved that Stine’s work was well-suited for the screen.

The Nightmare Room (2001-2002)

The Nightmare Room is another anthology adaptation of Stine’s book series of the same name. The series is like The Twilight Zone for adolescents, featuring eerie, strange stories and narration about children’s nightmares and fears. It was a short-lived series, considering there were only 12 books in The Nightmare Room book series. The Nightmare Room performed well as a more mature but still adolescent-friendly series filled with chills, thrills, cliffhangers, and shocking twists.

When Good Ghouls Go Bad (2001)

When Good Ghouls Go Bad is a Stine movie that came before the book. Stine developed the idea for the TV movie and, later, wrote the film's novelization. The film centers on Danny (Joe Pichler), a new kid in Walker Falls, Minnesota, who struggles with fitting in and also happens to have a reanimated zombie, Uncle Fred (Christopher Lloyd). When other not-so-good zombies reanimate, it’s up to Danny and Fred to stop them and save the town. When Good Ghouls Go Bad is a gem for both Lloyd and Stine fans. Lloyd is a hilarious, charismatic zombie, while the film is well-written and a lighthearted watch for families.

Haunted Lighthouse (2003)

Based on Stine’s book of the same name, Haunted Lighthouse is a short 4-D film. It premiered in theme parks like SeaWorld, where viewers got to experience tactile special effects such as water jets sprayed at them. In the movie, two ghost children stuck in a lighthouse for over a hundred years begin searching for other children to turn into ghosts and keep them company. Lloyd also stars in this film as Cap’n Jack. While the short film mainly prioritized the 4-D experience, Haunted Lighthouse is also a brief, breezy watch with a fun ghostly twist.

The Haunting Hour: Don’t Think About It (2007)

The Haunting Hour: Don’t Think About It is a direct-to-video adaptation of Stine’s book of the same name. The film follows Cassie (Emily Osment), a rebellious teen, who plays a prank on her younger brother by reading from a cursed book against the book’s warning. In the process, she unwittingly releases a monster on Halloween night. The Haunting Hour: Don’t Think About It is the perfect introductory horror film for viewers wishing to enter the genre. It’s family-friendly but frightening enough to scare younger viewers while also featuring considerable teen talent and relatable teen drama.

Mostly Ghostly Trilogy (2008-2016)

Based on Stine’s book series of the same name, the Mostly Ghostly trilogy kicked off in 2008 with Most Ghostly: Who Let the Ghosts Out? The film centers on Max Doyle (Sterling Beaumon), who discovers the ghosts of two siblings in his home and agrees to help them find out what happened to them. The sequels, Mostly Ghostly: Have You Met My Ghoulfriend? and Mostly Ghostly: One Night in Doom House, continue following Max’s adventures with his ghost friends, with Ryan Ochoa and Corey Fogelmanis taking over the role of Max. The Mostly Ghostly movies feature fairly impressive visuals for TV and direct-to-video films while maintaining an excellent balance of horror and humor.

R. L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour (2010-2014)

Following the success of The Haunting Hour: Don’t Think About It, Stine’s Haunting Hour books received a TV adaptation, R. L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour. It’s another anthology series featuring young cast members in chilling and eerie situations involving creatures and supernatural phenomena. R. L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour was significantly more mature than Goosebumps, featuring more thoughtful and complex themes and darker stories in which characters found themselves in dangerous and sometimes fatal situations. Its more mature nature resonated well with viewers, earning critical acclaim and offering families a show that would genuinely scare children and parents.

Eye Candy (2015)

While Stine is best known for his children’s literature, he did write a few books aimed at teen/adult readers. In 2015, one of his rare books for adult readers, Eye Candy, received a TV adaptation. The series follows Lindy (Victoria Justice), a brilliant, beautiful, and intimidating woman whose foray into online dating puts her on the tracks of a potential cyber stalker. Although it only ran for one season, Eye Candy earned positive reviews from critics and audiences who praised Justice’s performance, along with the show’s high stakes, exploration of grief, and mildly frightening premise, perfect for teen viewers.

Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls (2015)

Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls is a horror comedy based on Stine’s 2012 novel of the same name. In the film, Beth (Dove Cameron) and her friends are excited when the Halloween festival and haunted carnival arrive in their small town. However, they quickly realize there’s something sinister about prominent carnival entertainer Dr. Hysteria (Andrew Kavadas). Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls is a fun Halloween movie showcasing many young Disney and Nickelodeon stars. It’s silly, funny, and creepy enough to make it a classic for spooky season.

Goosebumps (2015)

Twenty years after the original Goosebumps show, Stine’s beloved series received a film adaptation. The film sees Jack Black portray a fictional version of Stine, who teams up with his teenage neighbor, Zach Cooper (Dylan Minnette), to save his town when the monsters from his books come to life. Goosebumps is filled with nostalgia, strong visual effects, and an enjoyable performance from Black. While aimed at children, adults will find it entertaining, too. The film is especially a must-see for fans of the books and the original TV show.

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween (2018)

Following Goosebumps’ success, Sony greenlit a sequel, Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween. In the sequel, Black returns as Stine, who once again finds himself fighting his monsters after siblings Sarah (Madison Iseman) and Sonny (Jeremy Ray Taylor) accidentally unleash them by opening Stine’s unfinished manuscript. While Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween largely follows the first film’s template, it still offers another fun, nostalgic Halloween romp for families. It’s funny and clever, and it will easily instill a love of horror in young viewers with its creative and eerie monsters.

Fear Street Trilogy (2021)

Netflix released the Fear Street trilogy in July 2021, making it quite the summer horror movie event. Since Stine’s Fear Street books were geared more toward teenagers than children, the Fear Street movies are also for teens and adults and are proper horror films. The trilogy follows Deena (Kiana Madeira) and her friends after a massacre in their hometown of Shadyside, which leads them to search their town’s grisly past for answers about the supposed Shadyside curse. The Fear Street trilogy is one of the most creative and well-crafted Stine adaptations, blending the nostalgia of ‘90s horror slashers with an imaginative and complex lore.

Just Beyond (2021)

Based on Stine’s graphic novel series of the same name, Just Beyond is a horror anthology series created for Disney+. From alternate worlds to brainwashing schools to teen witch life, each of the eight episodes sees young characters navigating spooky, unsettling, supernatural, and weird circumstances. Just Beyond is light on scares, but big on creativity and imagination. The Twilight Zone-esque stories are intriguing and strange, with a very subtle eeriness to them, that will dazzle young viewers.

Goosebumps (2023 - present)

In 2003, Stine’s Goosebumps series received another TV adaptation. Unlike the original series, Goosebumps is a serialized anthology that tells a new story every season rather than every episode. The first season focuses on a group of teens who investigate the mysterious death of a teenage boy three decades earlier, while Season 2 follows siblings Cece (Jayden Bartels) and Devin (Sam McCarthy), who discover a haunted house on vacation. Goosebumps is a refreshing adaptation of Stine’s work, honoring his spooky source material while effectively transforming it into a serialized format. A little more mature than the original series, it finds the perfect balance between appealing to younger and older audiences.

Zombie Town (2023)

Based on Stine’s 2000 novel of the same name, Zombie Town is a horror comedy about two teenagers who unwittingly turn their fellow town residents into zombies after watching a zombie movie from a reclusive filmmaker. The film brings the zombie subgenre to children with a fun, entertaining, and surprisingly sophisticated story. Zombie Town is a clever and witty movie that pokes a little fun at the zombie genre. In addition to the satire and nostalgia, older viewers will also appreciate the presence of Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase, Henry Czerny, and Scott Thompson.

Fear Street: Prom Queen (2025)

Following the success of the Fear Street trilogy, the franchise expanded with another film installment: Fear Street: Prom Queen. Based on Stine’s novel The Prom Queen, the movie follows Lori Granger (India Fowler), a high school outcast who suddenly finds herself in the running for prom queen. However, the triumphant moment turns dark when her competitors begin disappearing. Fear Street: Prom Queen maintains the nostalgic, horror slasher aspects of the original series while leaning more heavily into the teen drama aspects. The prom drama with a slasher twist is the perfect film for teens to watch during prom season.

Where To Watch R. L. Stine’s Movies And TV Shows Online

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