Balancing a full-time creative career with the demands of today’s hustle culture can be challenging. However, time isn’t the only obstacle diverse talents face in maximizing their creative potential. Gaining access to resources and funding can also be a daunting hurdle, limiting their ability to develop or complete new projects.
In an effort to support the next generation of artists and innovators, CÎROC Ultra-Premium Vodka has unveiled the Blue Dot Creative Residency, a program aimed at providing financial capital, mentorship, and space for individuals working in entertainment, music, art, and fashion. The new initiative is designed to support creatives looking to expand into different fields and broaden their platforms by exploring uncharted ventures.
According to a press release, “the innovative program will deliver an environment of creative ease by providing them with direct funding, resources, and access needed to invest back into passion projects that shape the culture of tomorrow.”
As part of the residency, participants will gain collaboration opportunities with industry leaders who will help them develop artistic expression. The program also includes “(Ease)capes” to allow members to recharge and find inspiration during key cultural events. Throughout the year, the program will support and help talent distribute and showcase their projects across different verticals, from movie theatre partnerships to commission-free art galleries. The residency will culminate in the unveiling of innovative projects across various mediums.
CÎROC, a vodka company owned by DIAGEO, celebrated the launch of the Blue Dot Residency with an exclusive culinary experience honoring diverse creatives during Miami Art Week. Held at the iconic Rubell Museum, artists, creators, and tastemakers came together for a multi-sensory experience that fused art, music, and food.
BLACK ENTERPRISE spoke to Victoria David, brand director of CÎROC, about the Blue Dot Creative Residency and the culinary celebration that the spirits company hosted last month.
Tell us more about the Blue Dot Creative Residency and its mission to empower diverse creatives.
The Blue Dot Creative Residency is about redefining what it means to support creativity. Centered around four key verticals—entertainment, music, art, and fashion—the program helps creators expand their craft into new frontiers. We created this residency to eliminate the barriers that many creatives face, such as lack of time, resources, or financial support, and instead provide a space where they can breathe, reflect, and innovate.
Through direct funding, mentorship, and access to a network of influential collaborators, we aim to give creators the tools they need to turn their passion projects into cultural touchstones. This isn’t just a program; it’s a cultural movement designed to inject more joy, vitality, and innovation into the creative landscape.
What inspired CÎROC to create this initiative?
At CÎROC, we’ve always been about celebrating culture and creativity, but we saw an opportunity to do more. Today’s creators are navigating an unprecedented amount of pressure to perform, and the grind culture that dominates our world often stifles their ability to innovate. We were inspired by the insight that creativity thrives when we take a step back to recharge. This residency reflects a pivotal shift for CÎROC as we embrace the philosophy that leisure isn’t just a luxury—it’s the key to unlocking extraordinary ideas. By creating a space where creators can focus on joy and experimentation, we’re helping to foster that mindset.
What role did you play in the ideation and execution of the program?
As brand director, my role has been to bring this vision to life by ensuring the residency stays true to CÎROC’s legacy while paving the way for its future. Our team collaborated to build a program that speaks to the evolving needs of creatives today. From identifying the barriers they face to designing a support system that addresses those challenges, our focus has been on ensuring this initiative isn’t just impactful but also sustainable. I’m especially proud of how we’ve integrated mentorship and collaboration into the program because it reflects CÎROC’s belief in the power of connection to fuel creative breakthroughs.
What makes the Blue Dot Creative Residency meaningful for you personally?
This residency is deeply meaningful because it represents the best of what CÎROC stands for—empowering people to celebrate their full potential. I’ve always believed in the transformative power of creativity, and this program gives us a chance to support artists in a way that truly makes a difference. Watching creators rediscover their passion, take risks, and create work that leaves a lasting impact on culture is inspiring. It reminds me why I fell in love with this industry—because, at its best, creativity has the power to change the world.
Why was it important for CÎROC to launch the initiative during Miami Art Week?
Miami Art Week is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the boundless possibilities of creativity. For CÎROC, this was the ideal stage to introduce the residency because it allowed us to engage directly with a community of artists and tastemakers who embody the spirit of innovation. By launching in a setting that thrives on bold ideas and collaboration, we were able to set the tone for what this program is all about: creating space for creatives to breathe, explore, and ultimately shape the cultural zeitgeist. The kickoff at the Rubell Museum wasn’t just a launch; it was a statement about where CÎROC is headed as a brand.
CÎROC’s “Night at the Museum” was an incredible, multi-sensory culinary experience that blended art, music, and food. What was the inspiration behind this event and what message did you aim to communicate with attendees?
The “Night at the Museum” was inspired by CÎROC’s mission to celebrate creativity and a desire to have our guests truly embrace fostering deeper connections. Held at the Rubell Museum during Art Basel, it marked the launch of the Blue Dot Creative Residency and reflected CÎROC’s evolution from the hustle of nightclubs to moments that are more meaningful and inspirational. Through a fusion of art, music, and culinary excellence, the experience created a fully immersive environment where we showcased how CÎROC is shaping culture and supporting creators who redefine what it means to innovate and inspire.
What impact have you made at CÎROC since being named brand director?
Since stepping into this role, my focus has been on evolving the way CÎROC shows up in culture. We’ve moved beyond nightlife to celebrate the full spectrum of creativity and leisure. From launching CÎROC Limonata, the No. 1 vodka innovation in the U.S (Nielsen Total US x AOC P52W through 11.16.24), to aligning with cultural milestones like Culture Con, my goal has been for the brand to create meaningful connections with audiences. The Blue Dot Creative Residency is a continuation of that work, showcasing how CÎROC is redefining luxury and creativity for a new era. It’s not just about products, it’s about the impact we have on culture and the creative communities we serve.
In what other ways does CÎROC plan to make meaningful connections with Black creatives?
We recognize that diverse creatives are some of the most influential voices shaping culture, and we’re committed to amplifying their impact. Whether it’s through partnerships, cultural activations, or spotlighting emerging talent, our goal is to create spaces where diverse creatives feel valued, supported, and inspired to push boundaries.
The Blue Dot Creative Residency is open to U.S. residents 25 years old and above working in creative fields like music, art, film, and fashion. Applications will open soon. For updates, visit www.CÎROC.com.
You ever watch a show and think to yourself “Wait, I know that voice” but can’t place it? Don’t worry I am here. At least when it comes to Severance.
The Apple TV+ series is back and while we’re back in action with Mark S. (Adam Scott) and his team at Lumon, the episode took some twists and turns. For the most part, Mark was by himself until he demanded that his team was back together at Lumon. Dylan (Zach Cherry), Helly (Britt Lower), and Irving (John Turturro) all come back to work and they begin planning their future at Lumon.
The 2025 Sundance Film Festival kicks off in just one week.
The Festival will take place from January 23–February 2, 2025, in person in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, with over half of the projects available online from January 30–February 2, 2025, for audiences across the country to discover bold independent storytelling. Single Film Tickets for in-person and online screenings will be available for purchase at the Festival site at festival.sundance.org/tickets beginning this Thursday, January 16, at 9 a.m. PT/10 a.m. MT/11 a.m. CT/noon ET.
World premieres of projects across program categories will feature Jennifer Lopez, Benedict Cumberbatch, Diego Luna, Conan O’Brien, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Ayo Edebiri, Olivia Colman, André Holland, Steven Yeun, Mark Ruffalo, Bowen Yang, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Lily Gladstone, Dev Patel, Emily Watson, John Lithgow, Marlee Matlin, John Malkovich, Rose Byrne, Dylan O’Brien, Lili Reinhart, Willem Dafoe, and more.
If you’re attending the Festival in person, visit the Festival site to purchase Single Film Tickets ($35) for the screening of your choice in theaters across Park City and Salt Lake City. If you can’t make it in person this year, select online Single Film Tickets ($35) for feature films and episodic projects or the Short Films Pass: Online ($50) and experience the Festival from wherever you are across the country.
Check out the Festival Program Guide to start planning! There, you can browse the features, episodic works, and short films screening in the Festival, find screening times, and learn more about the stories and filmmakers. Visit the 2025 Sundance Film Festival site for additional information about the Festival and check out the official 2025 Sundance Film Festival merch at store.sundance.org.
WHAT:
2025 Sundance Film Festival Single Film Tickets on sale at festival.sundance.org/tickets
Single Film Ticket: In Person
Discover your next Festival favorite with one ticket to a screening of a feature film, short film, or episode of your choice during the Festival.
Price: $35
Dates Valid: January 23–February 2, 2025
Single Film Ticket: Online
Discover your new Festival favorite with one ticket to a screening of your choice. Enjoy convenient, on-demand access from the comfort of your home during the online Festival (January 30–February 2, 2025).
Price: $35
Dates Valid: January 30–February 2, 2025
WHEN:
Single Film Tickets on Sale: Thursday, January 16, at 9 a.m. PT/10 a.m. MT/11 a.m. CT/noon ET
WHERE:
- In-Person Single Film Tickets – festival.sundance.org/tickets/in-person
- Online Single Film Tickets – festival.sundance.org/tickets/online
For all information related to ticket offerings and more, please visit our official 2025 Festival site: festival.sundance.org/tickets.
The post Experience Sundance 2025: In-Person and Online Ticket Info appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
After what feels like forever the lords of content have delivered the gift of gifts, Castlevania is back in the building! Nocturne: Season 2 returns with the goods and all the pieces needed to craft a beautiful season of animation. We still haven’t recovered from the tsunami that was the Arcane, and Netflix serves up another brilliant season of cartoon gold. Nocturne feels different this time like all the pieces have come together perfectly, in unison, like an orchestra. Pared down, lean, and mean as always, but does it have everything that made the first season so great?
Nocturne S1 Ending Recap [Aria]
Yes, yes it does. Proven, by taking us right where we left off. Things are not so great, city vamps up ten. Erzebet is in full effect with the eclipse-making abilities of a god. The Abbot Emmanuel has this reluctant Forgemaster thing on lock. Tera has been turned into a vampire, Maria is out cold, Richter and Annette got run out of the city. Not much is going right, Alucard popped out last second with a three from the logo and took resident bad biddie Drolta off the board.
This down-on-our-luck, plucky underdogs story is what makes the Castlevania series great. Even from its’ source material, that feeling that the odds are insurmountable but you have no choice but to take on an army of evil, one versus one million. Clive Bradley, Samuel and Adam Deats, Testament, Zodwa Nyoni, and Temi Oh are firing on all cylinders as a creative team. You can tell because the idea that the villains might win is just as present as the feeling that maybe the heroes aren’t ready. There’s a balance that keeps this show going, and it never lets up on the viewer.
Performances [Harmony]
As animation continues to ramp up in acceptance by mainstream media outlets, all of the different art styles used to make up the genre continue to grow and be accepted as well. So much of what is paid attention to is the look and feel. What Castlevania has always done is bring top-tier voice acting to the table. Nocturne season 2 continues that tradition.
Edward Bluemel’s Richter is a Belmont through and through. That playfully cocky affect with righteous vengeance undertones is so key to keeping our band of heroes focused on the fight but still human. A hero is rarely this relatable. Bluemel’s Richter is like Peter Parker: overpowered yet witty enough to joke about it but will also put the beats on you if there’s a life to defend.
Thuso Mbedu absolutely shines as the runaway slave and Haitian revolutionary, Annette. Make no mistake, this character is no throwaway or afterthought. Despite being a character race swapped from the source material, it feels like this is who Annette was meant to be. Mbedu is no stranger to playing fierce women, she brings a steadiness to Annette that makes her feel more like the main character this season.
Everyone brought their A-game to the booth. Zahn McClarnon’s trademark silky and airy voice embodies what makes Olrox so intriguing. Franka Potente is HER as Erzebet Bathory, rightfully proud and regal but also ruthlessly evil and selfish. Potente and Nastassja Kinski (another Film/TV veteran) leaning into the regional accents of their characters added so much authenticity to their performances. Not that fake British voice people do, nah. The cast brings to life the idea that this fight is for the sake of the whole world. No misses across the board.
Character Development [Symphony]
Nocturne season one took place three-hundred years after the events of Castlevania. How do you consider the changes a family can go through in that time? You write that shit out. The deepening of the Belmont legacy was always a tough task for the medium of video games. The team behind Nocturne nailed it in such simple ways. Series favorite Drolta Tzuentes (Ms. Tzuentes if you’re nasty) was all that we needed in the first season, but we were left never knowing how she came to be the sultry vampire baddie of legend. We get that backstory this season. They gave it to us in the most streamlined way possible, and it began a pattern of falling dominoes that spiraled into a wonderfully dizzying tapestry of interconnected storylines.
I’ve watched quite a few pieces of media in my time. The patience shown in revealing Drolta’s history and allowing her’s to lead to learning more about everyone else’s? Masterful. There are no questions about the motivations and desires of any given character, in a story that spans the globe, over thousands of years. Each layer and every nuance comes to life, and it’s ‘all killer, no filler’. Such a streamlined season of animation, so impressive that it harkens back to OG animated features like Vampire Hunter D and Robot Hunter. But this is a streaming TV show! With a budget one-fifteenth of what an episode of Arcane costs to make. How does a team flesh a world like that out? With authenticity.
Cultural Competency [Rondo]
The true greatness of watching this series over all these years (Castlevania premiered on Netflix in 2017!) is being able to vet the show’s consistent attempts to honor the culture it borrows. The series begins in the far eastern European reaches of Wallachia, Romania and eight years later manages to include the story of the Haitian revolt from French occupation. The scope is one thing, but the Old Man Coyote is in the details, right?
Olrox is an Aztec vampire who hails from central Mexico. When he shifts form, it’s not into a dragon – it’s the form of the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl. And he rocks the gold jewelry that Spaniards traveled to steal from his people. He be in Europe looking down on everybody, like, “Really? You backward fools took my people out?!” How he’s so hands-off as if to display his disgust for the continent that brought pestilence to his. Love to see it. Feels real.
Annette freed herself from slavery in Haiti, comes from the Yoruba people, and practices Yoruba religions. She’s the descendant of Ogun, an Orisha of the Yoruba pantheon. Yes, she can fight, but tapped into Ogun she is also an earth and metal magic user! And she communes with the dead via Papa Legba the Orisha of the crossroads. As a Haitian, it gave me so much life to see this practiced, championed even. Not explained in a joke, but to be walked through the sacred and spiritual understanding of this woman and her people. Her culture, being grounded in it, made her mighty. It’s a bit of justice in animated form. Annette’s spiritual journey is the most profound event that will ever take place in this series.
This will always be what sets this series apart from others; it feels so real even though we’re talking vampires, magic, and such. A special touch for me is the way the intro title card tells you who was the lead writer on a given episode. So in the episodes where Annette, Drolta, or Erzebet are center stage, you find Testament, Zodwa Nyoni, and Temi Oh named for writing their cultural competency into the development of the Black and Brown characters of this world. It doesn’t feel like a white world featuring some elements of color. It feels like we are seeing the world as it truly exists, with everyone represented naturally (or supernaturally).
Knucketh If Thou Bucketh [Portrait]
Another thing that makes this series stand out is the action choreography. It’s expected in most anime-styled shows. A bunch of skirmishes that range from the street fight to the mythical battle for the soul of the world. What I’ve always enjoyed about Castlevania is the way Powerhouse Animation uses everything in the room. Ain’t no “Chekov’s gun” in here. If you see it, it’s getting used to whoop ass. Practicality is just another way that the series adds authenticity to the end product. Welcome to another edition of ‘Fantastic Hands and Where To Catch Them’.
Richter doesn’t just use his ice as a blast, it’s also a defensive shell, a blade, and a conductor for his lightning, to heal his burns, and to cool down Annette. On and on. Not limited to Richter of course, because the standout fighter of this season is Maria ‘Bring Em Out’ Renard (voiced by Pixie Davies)! She brought a hell dragon out the portal and had that thing on a string! Like puppet jutsu! Pantomiming combos like she was shadowboxing and had Erzebet on the ropes! The imagination to design different fighting styles and ground them in the world is something that Castlevania does well and that is made into a sweet science in Nocturne’s second season.
Brass Tacks [Lament]
Castlevania: Nocturne season two is phenomenal and brilliant in its understanding of the complexities of history and relationships. If that’s not your bag, then the beautiful animation and consistently high-quality fight scenes got you. This is a must-see season of a must-see series. It premieres on Netflix on January 16th.
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The post These is Bloody Shoes: ‘Castlevania: Nocturne’ S2 Review appeared first on Black Nerd Problems.
Everyone once in a while, a movie comes along where you find yourself enjoying it so much, you feel like you’re right in the mix. One of Them Days does exactly that as it plays out more like a time we can relate to rather than a movie. Keke Palmer and Grammy-Award-winning artist, SZA, play two best friends, Dreux and Alyssa, who find themselves in a bit of a situation when they are pressed to come up with their rent money after Alyssa’s boyfriend spent it. They have the rest of the day to get it all to their landlord or else they face eviction. Both girls are down on their luck financially with Alyssa (SZA) being an aspiring painter and Dreux (Palmer) working at a diner.
To make matters worse, they are racing against the clock to also have Dreux ready to go for an interview for a big girl job that she has the same day. We are taken through a non stop belly laughing time through the chaos the girls go through as the universe throws everything but the kitchen sink at them. The cast is comprised of some familiar faces including Vanessa Bell Calloway, Lil Rel Howery, Katt Williams, Maude Apatow, Janelle James, and an absolute stand out performance from social media breakout, Joshua David Neal.
Directed by Lawrence Lamont, written by Syreeta Singleton, and produced by the talented Issa Rae, One of Them Days is a R-rated comedy that is destined to be an instant cult classic. Imagine if we had a female version of Friday (which it is already gaining many comparisons to the comedy from 30 years ago), this would be it, especially given the California setting. It’s a semi-raunchy, Black to the core chick flick that embraces what life is like in the hood in every form of the word.
From a tenant doing hair in the courtyard to a snack lady that lives in the building, the film stays true to its roots, with Rae mentioning in a recent interview for the film’s press run, “Fighting to have this movie shot in LA which was huge for us and shout out to Sony for allowing us to do so… it would have broke my heart if you were like ‘They not really on Crenshaw, where is this at?’…”
Besides the location being a big contributing factor to what makes the film so authentic, the relatable scenarios of a toxic boyfriend (Neal) and being low on cash when rent is due are just a piece of the pie. The deep friendship between Dreux and Alyssa is tested when fingers start to get pointed at each other during the blame game for their role in the whole situation. In a full audience, there were many times you’d catch head nods at things that were said or events that happened because we’ve all been there.
While Palmer is no stranger to the big screen with many hit films and even had her own talk show, SZA’s performance is to be highly commended as she held her own on screen as the second lead. This is wildly impressive as it’s her first feature film and you would not be able to tell that at all. It’s fair to say that the character she plays is more of a realistic person rather than a fictionalized character. She’s a super supportive best friend that has a ton of peronsonality and will go to war for you at the drop of a hat.
Regardless of why the role may have been simple to play, SZA is so much fun and a highlight of the film, definitely making her massive fan base extremely proud. One thing about Palmer that has come be very special is her ability to deliver some of the biggest laughs so effortlessly. She is just so naturally funny that the jokes and punchlines she bursts out with don’t even seem written, rather they come off as improvised or just natural reactions to the situations she finds herself in. I forever stand of the hill of Palmer being one of the most underrated actresses of our time, and a true gem in the world of Black Hollywood. The real kicker is she is only 31 years old and has accomplished so much that it’s a solid bet that she will continue to have a long lasting career ahead of her.
While the world may feel a way about influencers or folks that grew famous from social media, it is without question that there are some extremely talented individuals that are using the platform to gain attention for the right reasons. With over 1.3 million followers on TikTok (which it seems he recently removed a lot of his content), Neal has had us laughing at his videos for years and it is really dope that he was cast in the film because he is so deserving of the recognition as he has been at his craft for a long time. Overall, One of Them Days is sure to be a fan fave because of the thrill it brings through the wild ride the girls take us on. The realness of every aspect make it more than a film, it’s a day in the life of some stuff that can really pop off in LA any given day. It’s safe to say Palmer and SZA are the duo we never knew we needed on screen. To see more of our reviews on movies out this year check out the link Best Movie Critic Site.
And also out our interviews below with the cast and director below:
One of Them Days premieres in theaters January 17th.
The post Review: ‘One of Them Days’ Give Us a Relatable Female Version of ‘Friday’ and it Hits appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
Snoop Dogg needs no introduction. As a legendary figure in ’90s gangsta rap and the epitome of West Coast hip-hop culture, he’s left an indelible mark on music. Beyond his lyrical and musical achievements, Snoop is also a certified football coach and a passionate gamer, often racking up Xbox Gamerscore points. In a bold move, he announced during the 2023 Game Awards that he’s launching his own gaming studio.
But besides all that, he’s also known for his charity efforts. In 2005, he founded the Snoop Youth Football League for at-risk youth, which was claimed to have become the largest youth football organization in Southern California. He also started a special-needs division called Snoop Special Stars for anyone with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities aged five or older. It’s also a known fact that he donated and raised millions for charitable causes over the years, but the full extent of his charitable giving remains difficult to ascertain.
The main reason behind that is his apprehension towards speaking about it or appearing in videos and photos due to wariness that his donations and charitable causes might be interpreted as publicity stunts. However, news reports are sometimes difficult to avoid, especially for someone as famous as Snoop. In recent reports, the rapper earned praise for stepping up to support those displaced by the devastating Southern California wildfires.
Namely, the Drop It Like It’s Hot rapper revealed that his clothing store, Snoop Dogg’s Clothing, located in Inglewood, California, is providing clothes to people impacted by the wildfires. The announcement was made on Snoop’s Instagram page on Thursday, January 9. Snoop’s post read:
“We are devastated and send our condolences to those who have been affected by these fires. Please stop by and pick up some clothing that we have available to get you and your family through these trying times free of charge, ID/ address requested.”
The store, on the other hand, offered additional information regarding Snoop’s original post by stating that it would be open through 7 PM local time on Friday, January 10, to assist those who have been affected by the wildfires. They also emphasized that both adults and children could come in and receive clothes, with a valid ID and an address being the only requirements, reiterating their working hours for anyone who might find the information useful.
Snoop Dogg’s Clothing also shared additional information about other nearby locations and businesses that are temporarily accepting and distributing donations to help wildfire victims. But the charity effort doesn’t end there; Snoop stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live! on January 13 and praised the city’s sense of community while also acknowledging the first responders and the firefighters who are working tirelessly to contain the fires.
Snoop also hinted that some financial solutions were also being explored and hinted at a potential benefit concert for those affected by the wildfires. He shared that he’s leaning towards the idea of doing a concert for free and making sure that all the proceeds he would otherwise receive from the concert and ticket sales are used to help people in need during these trying times.
Kimmel, on the other hand, added that his studio’s parking lot in Hollywood has been turned into a donation center to collect essential items. The host later praised Snoop’s ongoing community contributions, many of which we previously mentioned in the opening segment of this discussion, but the Doggfather, ever humble, put collective effort back into the spotlight. Fans praised Snoop’s action on social media, thanking him for his support and calling him a true hero.
For those who aren’t in the know, tens of thousands of people were forced to evacuate as multiple fires popped up around Los Angeles County, and many residents later learned that they had lost their homes. Cal Fire, California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, reported that more than 90 (yes, you read that right) wildfires had ignited across the state during the opening days of the new year, but the two large fires, in particular, continue to plague the LA area.
One of them is the Palisades Fire, which destroyed the Pacific Palisades neighborhood after igniting on January 7, and the Eaton Fire in nearby Altadena. The former burned nearly 24,000 acres, while the latter consumed more than 14 acres; collectively, both fires have killed at least 24 people, scorched more than 60 square miles, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and put more than 88,000 people under evacuation orders.
With the distressing data out of the way, we’d like to close this piece by saying that true character shines through in times of crisis, and Snoop Dogg’s efforts during the devastating LA wildfires exemplify the power of compassion and community. From offering immediate relief through his clothing store to hinting at a potential benefit concert, the legendary Doggfather reminds us that even the smallest gestures have the potential for profound impacts.
The post Snoop Dogg Earns Praise for Generous Help During L.A. Wildfires appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
Senator Bernie Sanders hadn’t been pulling punches against his own political party after the 2024 presidential election’s outcome. The Vermont senator believes that the Democratic Party has been ignoring a glaring reality for many working-class Americans.
Streamer Hasan Piker interviewed Sanders on Twitch. Piker put forward that the erosion of government safety nets, increasing deregulation, and privatization have led people to resent the government. Then, the streamer asked if Sanders agreed with this sentiment. Without hesitation, Sanders agreed.
Following the arrest of South Korea’s impeached leader, Yoon Suk Yeol, the contrast between how South Korea and the United States handled their leaders’ rebellion is quite startling.
On December 3, 2024, Yoon shocked South Korea when he abruptly declared martial law. In South Korea, the president can declare martial law in times of war and emergencies. However, there was little evidence that Yoon had a reason or situation that met the standards necessary for a martial law declaration, with many suspecting it was actually an attempted coup. Ultimately, the National Assembly, in a unanimous vote from 190 members, successfully annulled the martial law after just three hours. Even though his “coup” lasted such a short time, the consequences were swift and serious. He was impeached, and his presidential powers were suspended. Following the investigation into his declaration of martial law, an arrest warrant was granted, and Yoon was taken into custody on January 15, 2025.
Bzzz bzzzz, Yellowjackets fans. Season three will continue to feed us with more mysterious happenings in the wilderness as the group scrambles to seek shelter and survive. In the present day, our favorite survivors will grapple with last season’s shocking death as they try to work through their many interpersonal issues 25 years after their life-changing plane crash. What will we learn about those woods? What is the true meaning behind that weird symbol? Will Other Tai and the Man with No Eyes resurface once again? The next round of episodes will surely provide answers to our burning questions.
The group is certainly getting into some more coven-like activities, as evidenced in this photo shared on Instagram. We wanna know how they made these cute matching outfits and lanterns with little resources.
Here’s what we know about Yellowjackets season three so far.
Yellowjackets Season Three’s Plot
Right now, we don’t know anything about season three’s plot. As previously stated, the timeline in the past will be dealing with the group losing shelter during winter. A recent Yellowjackets teaser trailer shows that Shauna will once again take center stage, as we see a few scenes of teenage Shauna acting a bit feral. Teen Natalie is now the leader in the wilderness, so we will see just how savage everyone gets.
The present timeline will have to deal with Natalie’s death and how that affects everyone in the present day. We can assume we will return back to Wiskayok to catch up with family members and unresolved issues there. Tai kinda needs to go back to her wife (if she’s even alive) and son.
This Yellowjackets trailer gives us even more insight. There’s someone threatening the group once again in the present day and, in the past, things are getting even more feral. And yes, the Man with No Eyes is back again along with newcomer Hilary Swank being seen for the first time in her mysterious Yellowjackets role.
Behind-the-scenes
Yellowjackets creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson will continue as its executive producers and co-showrunners alongside Jonatha Lisco. We assume the same team of writers is back for season three.
Yellowjackets Season Three’s Cast
The teen and adult ensemble cast members are coming back, including Melanie Lynskey (adult Shauna), Christina Ricci (adult Misty), Tawny Cypress (adult Tai), Lauren Ambrose (adult Van), Sophie Nélisse (teen Shauna), Jasmin Savoy Brown (teen Tai), Sophie Thatcher (teen Natalie), Samantha Hanratty (teen Misty), Courtney Eaton (teen Lottie), Liv Hewson (teen Van), Steven Krueger (Coach Ben), Warren Kole (Shauna’s husband Jeff), Kevin Alves (teen Travis), Sarah Desjardins (Shauna’s daughter Callie) and Simone Kessell (adult Lottie).
It is not impossible for adult Natalie to make an appearance, perhaps in some sort of dream or flashback. We will see. Elijah Wood is returning in a recurring role as Walter Tattersall. Hilary Swank and Joel McHale will join the cast in currently unknown guest star roles.
Yellowjackets Season Three’s Release Date
Yellowjackets will release will hit Paramount+ for those with the SHOWTIME plan on February 14 with two episodes. Others will be able to watch it live on February 16.
The post Everything We Know About YELLOWJACKETS Season 3 appeared first on Nerdist.
It’s now common knowledge that Warner Bros. had a really hard time establishing the now deceased DCEU, its live-action movie universe—a ship that ultimately sunk due to Warner Bros.’ lack of vision and coherency. James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new and budding DC cinematic universe aside, there’s really nothing bad to be said about the DC Animated Movies Universe, which is quite an impressive library of animated movies associated with DC superheroes, like Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash, and even Constantine.
Most of these animated films usually fly under the radar since most haven’t received a theatrical release, which is sad because they’re often not only better than anything live-action DC has ever made but also superior to most of the MCU — yes, we said it! To absolve the fans who have missed these releases or simply turned a blind eye due to their animated nature, we introduce you to the five best DC animated movies:
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is arguably the greatest DC animated film, which really raised the bar of expectations quite high. The animated movie is set in the legendary Batman: The Animated Series continuity and it actually had a theatrical release, which was a disaster. After it bombed the box office, it did find massive success in the home video market.
Narrative-wise, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm offers a fresh perspective on Batman’s formative years, exploring whether Bruce Wayne could have avoided becoming the Caped Crusader had he found happiness and moved on with his life before embracing the iconic mantle. It’s a brilliantly crafted film that introduces original elements while remaining faithful to the spirit of the source material.
Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox
Released in 2013, this adaptation masterfully brought its comic book arc to life, with many fans arguing it surpasses the original material. The story centers on the Flashpoint event, a temporal disruption that creates a fractured reality where Wonder Woman’s Amazons and Aquaman’s Atlanteans are locked in a devastating war.
Not only that, but the Justice League was never actually formed in this reality, so The Flash unites with Batman (who else) and Cyborg to restore the universe. It’s a really great adaptation that gave rise to the new DC Animated Movie Universe, and it’s currently one of the highest-rated animated superhero movies on review aggregation websites, as well as IMDb.
Batman: Under the Red Hood
This is easily one of DC’s top three animated movies, primarily because it balances intense action and heart-wrenching moments, complemented by impeccable voice acting and Jensen Ackles as the Red Hood. Narratively, the movie examines the morally questionable relationship Batman has with his Robins and introduces a completely new anti-hero, Red Hood.
Red Hood relies on much more effective crime-solving methods than Batman and seeks to overtake Gotham and bring it under control. What makes the movie so great is the revelation of Red Hood’s identity and his, Batman’s, and Joker’s three-way dynamic. We strongly recommend this one, and the Red Hood was also used in Batman: Arkham Knight—arguably the best Batman game ever.
Batman vs Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, the masterminds behind the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, were famously open to crossovers; rarely, if ever, turning one down. It was only a matter of time before someone envisioned blending the playful, lighthearted Turtles with the dark, brooding atmosphere of Gotham, leading to their unforgettable encounter with the Bat. This movie made it on the list because it perfectly captures the personalities of different characters and their interactions.
All the fight choreography in this animated piece is top-notch, especially those between Shredder and Batman, as they’re both hand-to-hand combat experts and utilize their armors, as well as their arsenals, to their advantage. Interactions between Batman and Mikey are also incredibly entertaining due to their different personalities. And, as it turns out, Bruce Wayne also likes pizza.
The Death of Superman
The 2018 release Death of Superman delivers a faithful adaptation of the iconic comic arc, capturing all the major story beats and skillfully condensing them into an 81-minute masterpiece. Unlike the 2007 animated Superman: Doomsday, which is decent but pales in comparison, this version truly stands out as a definitive take on the tale.
Fans of the comics or Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice will recognize this as the story where Superman meets his tragic end, falling in battle alongside Doomsday as they deliver fatal blows to each other. This film is a standout, boasting exceptional voice acting and staying true to its source material with remarkable respect.
Honorable Mentions
Superman Red Son and Justice League Dark should also be on this list. The former is a brilliant reimagining of Superman’s mythology that asks how things would have turned out if Superman crash-landed in the Soviet Union instead of Kansas, while the latter brings Constantine, Zatanna, and Deadman into the spotlight and focuses on magic, horror, and the darker corners of the DC Universe.
Final Thoughts
The DC Animated Movies Universe has consistently delivered some of the most engaging and action-packed superhero stories ever created, and their quality matches and even exceeds those of the MCU. These movies prove that the animated medium isn’t a limitation but a strength, and there’s a reason for that. We’ll let you find that out for yourself, and you can start with the films we just recommended.
The post Ranking the 5 Best DC Animated Films appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
We are counting down the days until Marvel Studios brings us Captain America: Brave New World, premiering in theaters Feb 14th. The upcoming film promises to soar higher, punch harder, and bring some serious comic book-driven drama to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Here are five reasons we can’t wait to see Sam Wilson take flight in his first solo adventure as Cap!
1. Anthony Mackie’s Solo Debut as Captain America
Let’s keep it 100% in the wise words of Issa Rae, we’re rooting for everybody Black. We cheered as Sam Wilson officially became Captain America in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, but now it’s his time for him to shine on the big screen. The comic book canon character Sam Wilson made his debut in Marvel’s Captain America issue #117 in 1968. That’s right this character is nearly 60 years old! Mackie’s charisma, wit, and grounded portrayal of the hero make him the perfect successor to Steve Rogers, played on the big screen by actor Chris Evans. We look forward to Mackie adding his own finesse and style to the role and how epic is it to see the hero wielding both the legendary shield and wings on the big screen again?
2. Expanding the MCU Legacy
Marvel is known for weaving intricate storylines, and this film promises to be a cornerstone for the next phase of the MCU. With questions lingering about the multiverse, new heroes emerging, and old foes potentially rearing their heads, we can’t wait to see how Brave New World fits into the grander Marvel puzzle.
3. Hints from the Trailer: What’s Going On?!
I know I wasn’t the only one who saw that trailer at least 20 times at this point. If the trailer is anything to go by, Brave New World will be action-packed and emotional. From glimpses of intense battles to mysterious alliances, the preview had us on the edge of our seats. (And can we talk about those slick updates to the suit?) Harrison Ford as Red Hulk went viral immediately, including some really funny memes. Seeing Ginacarlo Esposito as Sidewinder already has many fans speculating where the story could go. We unpacked our thoughts about Ginacarlo’s role earlier last year. There’s tons of internet fodder about wild plot twists, cameos, and we are HERE for it.
4. The Return of Familiar Faces
Rumor has it, some beloved (and not-so-beloved) characters will make an appearance. Tim Blake Nelson reprises his role as The Leader, a villain who’s been brewing in the MCU since The Incredible Hulk. Plus, the return of Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley gives us hope for even deeper storytelling about the legacy of the super-soldier serum. There was also a funny moment during an interview from Clayton Davis of Variety speaking to actor Sebastian Stan. Stan plays Bucky Barnes, lifelong friend and confidant of Steve Rogers. He’s also known as the Winter Soldier. We all know his character Bucky is due to appear in another highly anticipated Marvel release, Thunderbolts*, but Davis did ask Stan about a possible impending appearance in Brave New World. Although Stan was taken aback by the question, he wasn’t prepared to give him an answer about making a cameo. Check out the clip below:
5. Fresh Themes and Real-World Parallels
The Captain America franchise has always reflected real-world issues, and Brave New World seems set to do the same. From addressing Sam’s journey as a Black Captain America to tackling themes of global unity and division, this film promises to blend superhero spectacle with thought-provoking commentary. It’s also not lost on many of us, especially in the Blerd community, that the film will be released in February during Black history month. Another Marvel movie in 2018 had a historical release in February – Black Panther. It truly was the first time we saw ourselves reflected in a genre film of that magnitude in a world as rich, wealthy and as stoic as Wakanda. With Brave New World, we have an American icon led by a Black hero, which truth be told is something we need to escape to right now. We also can’t lose sight of The Falcon aka Joaquin Torres played by Danny Ramirez who also represents a step forward in showcasing the diversity of the MCU.
Captain America: Brave New World isn’t just another superhero movie; it’s a milestone for the MCU and an exciting new chapter in the Captain America legacy. With Anthony Mackie soaring as the new Cap, a story that promises action and heart, and the return of intriguing characters, this film is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re here for the edge-of-your-seat battles, the emotional weight of the story, or the thrill of uncovering how it ties into the larger Marvel tapestry, Brave New World has something for everyone. So let’s get ready to cheer on the next chapter of Marvel greatness.
Captain America: Brave New World premieres in theaters nationwide Feb 14th.
The post 5 Reasons We’re Excited for ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
Last summer, Alien: Romulus came and knocked the socks off pretty much everyone. Director Fede Alvarez’s movie, some questionable digital resurrections aside, pulled the best from Ridley Scott’s Alien and James Cameron’s Aliens. This is something others have tried and failed to do in this franchise. Romulus, taking place between the first two films, was a big success. And now a sequel seems inevitable. While talking to Empire Magazine, Alvarez shared some thoughts on where the next installment might go. Here’s what he had to say about the potential further adventures of Cailee Spaeny’s character Rain in another chapter of the Alien saga:
Rodo [Sayagues, co-writer] and I are working on that right now. We’re excited about where it can go. We’ve almost checked all of the boxes of things that I want to see [in Romulus], and brought back a lot of the things I hadn’t seen in a while. Wherever we go now, we can go into uncharted waters. I think it’ll be so exciting to go with characters you know from this movie, to a place in the Alien franchise that we’ve never been before, and to discover things that you’ve never seen before.
So what could this all mean? Well, if Rain is our new Ripley, then the previous films in the series give us an idea. The Sigourney Weaver films each ended with Ripley going into cryostasis, then waking up in a new environment and era. Or, in the case of Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection, dying and being reborn in a new time period. That means that Rain (and her android companion Andy, played by David Jonsson) will likely emerge from cryostasis in a totally new environment, and not the destination they were headed toward. In Aliens, Ripley slept for 57 years. We think it would be amazing if Rain woke up well past where Alien: Resurrection left off in 2181. This opens up a whole new world of Xenomorph possibilities. That definitely falls under the definition of things we’ve never seen before, and “uncharted waters.” And we’re here for it.
The post Fede Alvarez Teases Going Into “Uncharted Waters” for ALIEN: ROMULUS Sequel appeared first on Nerdist.
If there’s a community not even a billionaire can fake being part of, it’s the gaming community. X owner Elon Musk’s attempt to show that he’s a gaming god severely backfired after a Path of Exile 2 stream.
Musk boasted about being ranked 12th in the world on the game’s hardcore mode. Despite his grandiose claims, gamers have been highly doubtful of his achievements in the game. During the stream, observers noted that Musk made minuscule mistakes that veterans of his rank wouldn’t. This skill and rank mismatch led many online to believe that Musk’s account was merely boosted.
You know things are dire when we have to say that notorious TERF and transphobe J.K Rowling (sometimes known as the author of the Harry Potter series) makes a good point.
On Monday, Vulture published a tell-all detailing the many allegations against author Neil Gaiman. Though some of the allegations have been known since last summer, they pale in comparison to the full scope of what he has done, according to the multiple women who have come forward. To say the least, it’s sickening. It is detail we won’t get into here, but we cannot stress trigger warnings enough for the piece.
Dean Lorey just might be one of the hardest-working executive producers in the industry. In the past year, he served as showrunner for James Gunn’s Creature Commandos and “Harleyverse” spin-off Kite Man: Hell Yeah!, both while gearing up for his return to Harley Quinn, which he co-created with Justin Halpern and Patrick Schumacker (Abbott Elementary).
While all three were still executive producers on the show, they handed the showrunner reins over to series writer Sarah Peters (Ghosted) for Season 4, which was admired by critics (including this one) but proved to be polarizing among the fandom. Lorey told TV Line that he “wanted to get the old gang back together and get a little back to basics” with a fifth season that’s “a bit more focused.”
Major spoilers ahead for Harley Quinn seasons 1-4, and minor spoilers for the first season of Kite Man: Hell Yeah!
In season 4, we followed Harley Quinn (Kaley Cuoco) and Poison Ivy (Lake Bell) as they navigated their new jobs. While the couple had many cute moments together, the two spent much of the season dealing with their issues separately. Harley was determined to fit into the Bat Fam but eventually realized being a hardcore hero wasn’t her thing. Suppressing her natural villainy led to sleep-killing Nightwing/Dick Grayson (Harvey Guillen).
Ivy was temporarily the CEO of the Legion of Doom, made a powerful frenemy in Talia al Ghul (Aline Elasmar), and had her own realization that she’s not cut out for corporate life.
The crew took a back seat for the season; King Shark (Ron Funches) and his bride Tabitha had a litter of baby sharks, one of which Tabitha took home with her, leaving the rest with their father. Clayface (Alan Tudyk) was largely absent, except for an episode that showed him at his Vegas residency being oddly antagonistic towards Ivy.
Bane (James Adomian) went on a bizarre pasta adventure in Italy and did little else. Joker (Alan Tudyk) seemingly got bored with his governmental duties as mayor and reverted back to villainy. He missed his days as the Clown Prince of Crime and shot Batgirl/Barbara Gordon (Briana Cuoco), paralyzing her from the waist down (à la The Killing Joke).
Bruce Wayne (Diedrich Bader) spent the season behind bars at Blackgate, serving time for tax evasion (and DJ-ing). But in the finale, he simply decided to leave, just as Alfred Pennyworth (Tom Hollander) was finally transferred to be with him.
Kite Man (Matt Oberg) was absent from season 4 because he was too busy with his own show. Kite-Man, Hell Yeah! premiered in July 2024 and centered on him and his new girlfriend Golden Glider (Stephanie Hsu) and their joint business venture with Noonan’s. The main threats looming over Gotham were Lex Luthor (Lance Reddick), Helen Villigan (Judith Light), and Darkseid (Keith David), all of whom sought after the Anti-Life Equation. The finale teased Brainiac’s signature Skull Ship, which takes us into the long-awaited season 5.
Harley Quinn season 5 reunites us with Harlivy, the “bestest, most titillating-est, most exciting-est couple ever,” rocking velour tracksuits and enjoying their lack of responsibilities. With the Bat Family disbanded Gotham is in disarray with giant rats scaling buildings.
The first episode ties up some loose ends from season 4 like Joker being impeached for, you know, shooting Barbara. We also get a flashback to the short-lived Gotham City Sirens. However, it takes a few episodes before we get a definitive status on Nightwing post-Lazarus Pit.
Harley convinces Ivy to visit Metropolis, which looks like a clean utopia (kinda like Oasis Landing in Sims 3). With Lex Luthor in jail, we’re introduced to his younger sister Lena (the always fabulous Aisha Tyler), who also happens to be Bruce Wayne’s current girlfriend. She loves the chaos Harlivy brings to the perfect city of tomorrow and offers Ivy the chance to add some greenery among the shiny buildings, giving the couple a solid reason to postpone going back to Gotham.
This new setting means Lois Lane (Natalie Morales) and Superman (James Wolk) play a bigger part in the series than before. Unfortunately for Lois, the Daily Planet goes through some changes when Bane and a disguised Clayface join the newsroom. King Shark drops his rambunctious offspring off at their godmothers’ new Metropolis penthouse, with Shaun (Kimberly Brooks) being the biggest menace who becomes attached to Harley and Ivy.
That’s right. King Shark, Clayface, and Bane all live in Metropolis. And while they have their own subplots, the crew (sans Dr. Psycho and Sy) spend a lot more time together. In Kite-Man, Bane reconnected with Betty (Casey Wilson), his dominatrix valentine from A Very Problematic Valentine’s Day Special. They adopted Goldilocks (Carla Delaney), a former resident of Queen of Fables’ storybook, who bonded with Bane when he was forced to babysit her.
Some characters didn’t make a return, including Dr. Psycho (Tony Hale), Nora Freeze (Rachel Dratch), Talia al Ghul, and Two-Face (Andy Daly). I was disappointed that Batgirl and Jim Gordon (Christopher Meloni) only had brief appearances. However, we get plenty of newcomers to the Harleyverse, including Ivy’s former professor Jason Woodrue (John Slattery), a key figure in her and Frank the Plant’s (JB Smoove) origin story. But this season’s big bad is Brainiac (Stephen Fry), a green humanoid obsessed with perfection, along with his white alien monkey Koko (Phil Lamarr).
While Harley Quinn’s fourth season was a blast, co-creator and showrunner Dean Lorey remedied its shortcomings with a return to form in season 5. Harley and Ivy, along with their crew, still have a healthy balance of familiarity and growth, along with all the absurdity and wild antics. The show remains one of DC’s best animated projects, especially with Lorey at the helm.
Harley Quinn Season 5 premieres January 16 on Max, followed by one new episode weekly through March 20.
The post Review: ‘Harley Quinn’ Season 5 Returns to Form with the OG Crew Taking over a New City appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
TikTok swept into the social media landscape with an enviable force. It seemed to totally capture the hearts and minds of the youngest generations among us with its addictive platform that offers you short-form video after short-form video. Even millennials are not immune to TikTok’s wiles. For some, influences and artists alike, TikTok has also been a lucrative place to grow a business and make a living. But now, the TikTok ban threatens to outlaw TikTok from the US. If the ban becomes an active law as planned, TikTok will be banned from the United States beginning on January 20. Currently, only the Supreme Court stands between the federal law being enacted and not. But what’s the state of the TikTok ban? Well, here’s the current State of the TikTok ban Union.
Quick Links:
- Latest Updates on the Supreme Court’s TikTok Ban Deliberations
- The Current Overall State of Affairs Regarding a TikTok Shut Down
Latest Updates on the Supreme Court’s TikTok Ban Deliberations
After its first day of deliberations, the Supreme Court appears to lean toward upholding the TikTok ban, but did not conclude discussions. TikTok’s lawyer Noel Francisco seemed optimistic, however, noting “This country has never taken a step of shutting down a speech platform, much less such an important speech platform. You don’t shut down a speech platform because you’re worried about speech that’s dangerous.”
The Chinese embassy meanwhile criticized the ban, noting in a statement, “The U.S. has never found evidence that TikTok threatens U.S. national security, but it has used state power and abused national security reasons to unreasonably suppress it, which is not fair or just at all. The U.S. should truly respect the principles of market economy and fair competition, stop unreasonably suppressing companies from other countries, and provide an open, fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for companies from all countries to invest and operate in the U.S.”
The Current Overall State of Affairs Regarding a TikTok Shut Down
On January 10th, the Supreme Court will hear opening arguments in the case of the TikTok ban. There’s a lot of legalese involved, but in short, TikTok and ByteDance are arguing that the TikTok ban/shutdown is unconstitutional because it violates the First Amendment rights of its 170 million users. While some Supreme Court justices acknowledge the truth of this, the opposition argument is that TikTok does not have to shut down, it simply needs to divest of its owner ByteDance. ByteDance’s ownership of TikTok is a concern to the United States government, which believes the company is using TikTok to spy on Americans for the Chinese government, as well as to spread Chinese-centric propaganda. At this point in time, the court seemingly leans toward upholding the law and allowing the TikTok ban to take effect.
The Supreme Court has not yet arrived at a final decision, but it feels expected that they will move quickly to achieve one. We’ll be sure to update this piece as new information becomes accessible. You can listen to the arguments on YouTube via PBS NewsHour.
On April 24, 2024, President Biden signed the TikTok divest-or-ban bill into law, which also passed in Congress. If the Supreme Court does not strike down the TikTok ban, the law will go into effect on January 20. That means the use of TikTok will be illegal in the United States, and TikTok will no longer be available at the time.
The post TikTok Ban Updates: Supreme Court Leans Toward Upholding Ban and Shutting US TikTok Down in January appeared first on Nerdist.
We’re living in a golden age of true-to-source-material video game adaptations for film and TV. From The Last of Us redefining emotional storytelling to Arcane flexing its animation muscles and storytelling, we’ve come a long way from the days of Resident Evil movies that completely ignore almost all source material. How is it that Secret Level dropped on Amazon Prime, and the streets are this quiet about it? I have to search for it on my socials because it’s not coming up on my timelines, and ionlikedat.
Released on December 10th, this anthology series—created by Tim Miller (Deadpool, Love, Death & Robots)—is a love letter to the storytelling of video games. Each episode serves as a fitting homage to the games that shaped us, from beloved classics to forgotten gems, all brought to life with stunning visuals, sharp writing, and a voice cast that’s straight-up iconic. I’m talking Keanu Reeves bringing the intensity, Temuera Morrison delivering that boss energy, Kevin Hart adding his signature flair that we know him for, and Arnold Schwarzenegger reminding us why he’s still the king of action with a dash of comedic relief for good measure.
The animation? Fire. The voice acting? Pure gold. I was hooked from the jump and knew this anthology was going to be special. I need nominations for this show, STAT
Secret Level: Hooked From Episode 1
Episode 1, titled “The Queen’s Cradle,” transported me straight back to my D&D roots, like I was rolling a d20 for initiative all over again. This episode perfectly exemplified how organically your group in D&D forms—everyone falling into their roles, often stumbling into just the class or character you needed to make the party complete.
I loved the Dungeons & Dragons movie, but Secret Level felt like something entirely different. Where the movie leaned into comedy and blockbuster tropes (and did it well!), this felt like watching someone’s actual campaign unfold, more in the vein of The Legend of Vox Machina. It wasn’t trying to crack jokes every five minutes—it was about the adventure, the plot twists, and the unique chaos that only a D&D campaign can deliver. It gave us characters that we see in all of our own campaigns—like Tally, the gnome wizard, who was just so gnome-coded that it hurt but only in the best way. She embodied everything you’d expect from a gnome: clever, chaotic, and undeniably charming.
I’ve been hungry for more video game-related content to consume, and Secret Level came in clutch, like that one homie who mains the healer. Episode 2 takes us back with Sifu, delivering a poignant lesson about the cost of vengeance. Episode 3, meanwhile, is a hilarious meta dive into New World: Aeternum, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger in a comedic, MMORPG-flavored fever dream with Groundhog Day-style storytelling. And don’t even get me started on Episode 8, where Keanu Reeves takes the cockpit in the Armored Core universe and annihilates—not just with his mech, but with his flawless voice acting. It’s gritty, brutal, and one of the standouts of the series and I’m so sad that it was such a short episode!
But one of my absolute favorites? “Warhammer 40,000: And They Shall Know No Fear”. Listen, this episode had me ready to hop on my PC and load up Space Marine 2. This episode follows Captain Demetrian Titus post-Space Marine 2, and when I tell you this episode is brutal, brilliant, and so quintessentially 40K/Space Marine, I mean it. By the end, I was yelling, “What’s in the box?!” like I was David Mills in Se7en, only to nod solemnly and say, “Yep, that tracks for 40K.”
This episode has made me even more hyped for Henry Cavill’s upcoming live-action Warhammer 40K series and movies, also coming to Amazon Prime. While I know the two projects are unrelated, the sheer quality of this episode sets a high bar. I can’t help but hope Amazon maintains this level of excellence when it’s time for Cavill’s series to roll out.
Pac-Man’s Dark Side and Easter Egg Mania
Episode 6, though? Oh, y’all ain’t ready for Episode 6. If you know me, you know I live for hyper fixating on video game lore, and Pac-Man is one of my favorite rabbit holes. This episode wasn’t just a trip—it was a journey. Taking cues from Bandai Namco’s extensive library, it blended elements from Xevious, United Galaxy Space Force, and the upcoming platformer, Shadow Labyrinth.
And let me tell you, this episode was DARK. Like, “Why am I whispering ‘What the fuck?’ at my screen?” dark. I spent hours afterward diving into Reddit threads for easter egg confirmations because the lore runs deep. If you’re into theory-crafting, this episode is for you.
Hidden Gems and Forgotten Classics
What makes Secret Level so special is its range. Alongside heavy hitters like Mega Man and Unreal Tournament, it shines a spotlight on lesser-known titles like Concord, a game that had its plug pulled a month after launch and now only lives on in this series. There’s even an episode featuring Spelunky, Honor of Kings, and Crossfire.
And then there’s Exodus, based on an upcoming game from Archetype Entertainment set to release in late 2025. While the game hasn’t launched yet, its episode left me intrigued and eager to dive into it when it arrives.
Tim Miller didn’t just create an anthology—he built a shrine to gaming’s past, present, and future.
Why Aren’t Y’all Watching?
Even if you’re not a hardcore gamer, Secret Level is worth your time. The series doesn’t expect you to know every ounce of lore from these games, it gives you just enough to get invested while leaving room for curiosity. You might even find yourself wanting to pick up a controller or dive into PC gaming after watching.So, if you’ve got some time off this holiday season, do yourself a favor and check out Secret Level. All episodes for season one streaming now on Amazon Prime, and I promise, it’s the gift gamers didn’t know they needed.
Naliaah Castro is a NY-born blerd, gamer, and grad student juggling parenthood, work, and co-paneling on New Blerd Order. With a love for horror, RPGs, sci-fi, and fantasy, she’s probably either deep into a video game or rewatching Lord of the Rings for the hundredth time.
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The post Not Enough of Y’all Are Talking About ‘Secret Level,’ and It Don’t Sit Right with My Spirit appeared first on Black Nerd Problems.
It’s been over ten years since gates that lead to another dimension have begun appearing across the world. The battles between the magic beasts inhabiting the dungeons through the gates and the human hunters who have awakened the abilities to fight them show no signs of ending. Ordinarily, a hunter’s abilities do not change upon awakening, with their rank never increasing. However, the low-ranked Sung Jinwoo, known as “The Weakest Hunter of All Mankind,” gained the ability to level up through battle during a raid on a double dungeon.
Jinwoo has become a formidable necromancer with an army of loyal shadows at his command. But he must master these abilities while keeping them hidden from other hunters, all while racing against the clock to save his mother. As he faces humanity’s toughest foes, Jinwoo pushes his body and mind to the limit, and the full extent of his newfound power is revealed. Having completed a job-change quest that earned him the job “Shadow Monarch” and command over an army of shadows, Jinwoo heads into battle seeking the ingredients for the Elixir of Life to save his sick mother.
Crunchyroll, in collaboration with Aniplex, is bringing the world the eagerly awaited second season anime adaptation of the Korean manhwa sensation, Solo Leveling. (Our site’s review of the first two episodes of Season One) If you were lucky enough to catch Solo Leveling -ReAwakening in theaters last year, it featured a great recap of the first glorious season to prepare you for this new season airing this year.
Here’s a mostly spoiler free review for the first episode of Solo Leveling, Season Two which premiered on Saturday, January 4, 2025 on Crunchyroll. A big thanks to Crunchyroll for the early access!
You Aren’t E-Rank, Are You?
This second season of Solo Leveling drops the audience back at home with Jinjwoo–he’s in bed resting and recovering from the epic battle that he had with Igris–that’s worth rewatching. His first call to action was to pop up at Jinah’s, his younger sister, school for the parent/guardian teacher meetups. This is a great anchor to remind the audience of who and what our protagonist is doing all this for, this part of the emotional tether to his mission–providing for his kid sister and doing what he can to heal his ailing mother. He’s gone from the “Weakest Hunter of All Mankind“ to a force to be reckoned with, a man on different hunter’s radar, and also someone transformed starting with his own will. Sung, Jinwoo, you are that dude. You are exactly who you think you are.
But in Jinwoo’s case–there’s another task added to his ever mounting mountain of duties. By request of a teacher at Jinah’s school, he is asked to talk to one of her classmates, Han Song-yi, who has been working as a hunter. She may be familiar as the high school student who we saw in one of the motley crews hastily put together last season to make the required hunter quota when Jinwoo and Yoo Jinhoo were mining dungeons for treasure. This teen, while determined, is a low level hunter, who will ultimately have a difficult career ahead of her. Attempting to show her the harsh reality of the job, Jinwoo takes her to a raid designated for new hunters of the White Tiger guild. Things do NOT go as planned–as you can guess.
Can we stop and appreciate the new opening animation and song combo here for season two of Solo Leveling? The opening song is a BANGER! I did not know that LiSA and Felix of Stray Kids would sound so great on a track together, and the song gets me hyped. The new animation sequence for the opening opens to Jinwoo walking away with what looks like a bloody mouth and as he does we see a pomegranate fruit on the ground. The literary nerd within me instantly thought about what the symbolism could represent here. Depending on what part of the world, the pomegranate can represent a great number of meanings. My mind went to Greek mythology, and how the pomegranate is known as the “fruit of the dead.” This feels on par as last season Jinwoo leveled up and changed his job class, picking up a undead army.
Starting with that pomegranate, I followed the color red through the opening: from the red colored enemies of Jinwoo’s undead army to the tassel of Igris’ helmet all the way to the dying reddish light of the day where the country’s top hunters battle against creatures. There’s the red squares of the blackjack/roulette wheel to the red gem of pendant that Jinah–Jinwoo’s younger sister holds up to the light. There’s more red colored enemies that our main characters face off with, the red color of the slashes on impact from his weapon’s attacks ending with another pomegranate towards the end. I also first leaned on Greek mythology once seeing the fruit as I thought of the story of Hades and Persephone and how one was led into the underworld. We see a glimpse of the past Jinwoo–laying with a bed of lilies surrounding him–resurrection? A trade off? A sacrifice? This is a very intentional piece of animation with some hints and foreshadowing- I bet for the rest of the season.
Back to this review: This first episode of Solo Leveling’s second season really helps establish Jinwoo’s new status after all the training and grinding he did last season. Yes, he’s that dude, yes, he’s a force to be reckoned with, and yes, he’s a problem. He’s back home and leaning on his newfound strengths and knowledge and he’s moving forward with the plan. He gets to perform on a stage and that will include a boss baddie that will challenge him…whom I’m guessing was the short glimpse we had at the end of this episode. Jinwoo is rising to the occasion of his powers and his growing presence in the hunter world–he’s made use of his E-ranking as a hunter to fly under the radar and carry out his business, for sure.
The rising action off the battlefield really drives home the point that Jinwoo is on the radar of many more people now–hunters, hunter management, and more–for better or worse. He’s become too powerful and the timeline of his rise of power and him being at certain locations has pushed some to hypothesize that he’s reawakened. This comes in the form of dangerous and vindictive hunter Hwang Doongsoo who is looking to avenge his older brother, a hunter who lost his life last season. This also comes in the form of hunters who want to turn on him as their circumstances change as we probably see more in the following episodes this season.
“Solo Leveling Season Two arrives on the scene with much spectacle and substance: reminding us what drew us to the anime adaptation of the web-comic in the first place. A solid start for a new season, grounding us in Jinwoo’s purpose and presence in this latest chapter of his adventures.”
Verdict
While the pacing of the first episode of the first season bothered me, this time around the studio got it right with the first episode of the second season. We start off with Jinwoo and a piece of his emotional center: his family via his sister. And we’re reminded of some of the major players on the board who have or will soon have a greater interest in Jinwoo and his abilities. The gate incident brings him and his mission forward with much hinting about power and where his path leads.
I do love that this first episode of Solo Leveling does not disappoint on the animation quality side. Yes, we can gas up the fight scenes–which I am a fan of. (Shout out to the new opening sequence for season two, embedded above in this review!) Seeing Jinwoo’s new powers manifest in this new dungeon is a feast for the eyes, of course. These battles are only as appetizers for the main dish in the upcoming episode for next week, I’m sure. I am really loving the more subtle details from this episode like how this new version of a gate manifested and the brilliant scene where hunter Hwang Doongsoo is confronted by another hunter upon returning to Korea.
As amazing as it was to finally see Solo Leveling‘s first animated season, it feels just right having it return and be among the first in the Crunchyroll Winter 2025 Anime lineup. We are starting off strong with this action-packed series complete with so many little complexities and a protagonist we’ve been emotionally invested and rooting for. Solo Leveling Season Two arrives on the scene with much spectacle and substance: reminding us what drew us to the anime adaptation of the web-comic in the first place. A solid start for a new season, grounding us in Jinwoo’s purpose and presence in this latest chapter of his adventures.
Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow-
Streaming on Crunchyroll in January 2025
– SEASON 2 PRODUCTION STAFF –
Original Story by
Chugong
Original Illustrations by
DUBU (Redice Studio)
Directed by
Shunsuke Nakashige
Series Composition by
Noboru Kimura
Character Design by
Tomoko Sudo
Monster Design by
Hirotaka Tokuda
Art Director
Yasuhiro Okumura
Director of Photography
Daichi Iseki
Music Composed by
Hiroyuki Sawano
Animation Studio
A-1 Pictures
Motion Graphics
Production I.G
– SONGS –
Opening Theme Song “ReawakR” Performed by
LiSA (feat. Felix of Stray Kids)
– JAPANESE VOICE CAST –
Taito Ban as Sung Jinwoo
Reina Ueda as Cha Hae-In
Daisuke Hirakawa as Choi Jong-In
Hiroki Touchi as Baek Yoonho
Banjo Ginga as Gunhee Go
Makoto Furukawa as Woo Jinchul
Genta Nakamura as Yoo Jinho
Haruna Mikawa as Sung Jinah
Miyu Tomita as Han Song-Yi
– ENGLISH DUB VOICE CAST –
Aleks Le as Sung Jinwoo
Michelle Rojas as Cha Hae-In
Ian Sinclair as Choi Jong-in
Christopher Sabat as Baek Yoonho
Kent Williams as Gunhee Go
SungWon Cho as Woo Jinchul
Justin Briner as Yoo Jinho
Rebecca Wang as Sung Jinah
Emi Lo as Han Song-Yi
Solo Leveling is animated by acclaimed A-1 Pictures (Sword Art Online). The series is directed by Shunsuke Nakashige (Sword Art Online Alicization War of Underworld).
Watch the first season of Solo Leveling only on Crunchyroll.com.
About Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is the global anime brand that fuels fans’ love of anime. With the ambition to make anime an even bigger part of pop culture, Crunchyroll offers fans the ultimate anime experience and destination centered around a premium streaming service. Crunchyroll has the largest dedicated anime library, an immersive world of events, exciting theatrical releases, unique games, must-have merchandise, timely news, and more. Anime is for everyone and is accessible to stream across territories through Crunchyroll—whether on the go on mobile, through gaming consoles and big-screen devices at home, or on desktops anywhere.
Crunchyroll, LLC is an independently operated joint venture between U.S.-based Sony Pictures Entertainment and Japan’s Aniplex, a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., both subsidiaries of Tokyo-based Sony Group.
Cover image: ©Solo Leveling Animation Partners
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Let’s start off with a tangentially related fact: Netflix has managed to cultivate an aggressively comprehensive anime library over the last few units of time. As far as Winter 2024 anime, they gave us the simuldubs of Dandandan, and Ranma ½, as well as one of the most thrilling historical fiction animes I’ve seen in a minute, Orb: On the Movement of the Earth. Over the last year, I watched Hajime No Ippo: The Fighting and Captain Tsubasa, to say nothing of how they started 2024 with Dungeon Meshi (which you may know as Delicious in Dungeon). It’s impressive that I watch more of anime on Netflix than on Crunchyroll, Hulu, and HiDive (that said, Crunchyroll is where I still get my One Piece fix as well as Solo Leveling and things like, and I’m not quite as familiar with HiDive’s library like my friend Carrie, and Hulu’s Medalist is making a really strong play but that’s a different article).
Based on the pilot, Sakamoto Days is going to continue that trend because it is so much fun and is going to be a perfect weekend watch harkening back to good old Saturday morning cartoons in the best way possible.
The basic premise of Sakamoto Days is that a legendary hitman, Taro Sakamoto, fell in love and gave up being a hitman to be a convenience shop owner and loving husband. However, when you’re that good, you’re not exactly able to leave, so Sakamoto still occasionally has to deal with hitmen. For example, Shin, a hitman with inexplicable ESP, who is the main instigator in the pilot episode.
Right from the introduction and the OP, one of the first things that jumps out is that Sakamoto Days feels like it has more in common with anime from two to three decades ago than its contemporaries. While it’s premise and sensibilities are in line with series like Spy x Family (another series with inexplicable ESP and an assassin living a normal life, except with a spy) and The Way of the House Husband (Yakuza turned doting husband), its aesthetic feels different. While watching, my immediate benchmarks were Black Lagoon for the clean gun animation and Full Metal Alchemist, mostly because Shin reminds of Edward Elric (it’s the blonde hair, the kneeling poses, and exaggerated facial expressions).
Hell, in a slightly different timeline, The Legend of Taro Sakamoto would have been a beloved early 2000s action anime that could have kickstarted a whole genre, not unlike John Wick. But instead, we live in the one where Sakamoto Days is about a guy who really loves his wife who has impressed onto him that he needs to help which he is also insisting upon impressing upon anyone willing to listen.
Watching Shin, the telepathic assassin, try to eliminate Sakamoto and ensuing shenanigans is just straight up joyful. It’s this wonderful tale about how sometimes you meet your heroes and have your life changed for the better. It’s about the fact that a simple boring life is worth protecting. It’s embracing the very 2020 trend of built in Anime Music Video energy. The dub cast was phenomenal between Kirk Thornton’s narration, Matthew Mercer’s Sakamoto, and Dallas Liu’s Shin, and honestly a good dub is a very good sign. It shows investment and belief in a series.
If it’s not clear, I like this series a lot and I think Netflix has another hit on their hands. I had picked up the manga last year and fell off quickly due to the nature of life, but after watching the pilot, I immediately hopped on the Shonen Jump app to pick up where I left off because I was so invested in the life of a man who just wants to exist and also happens to be skilled in several kinds of combat. We got ten more episodes in part 1, and we’ll get part 2 in July. It’s gonna be a really fun time y’all.
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The post 2020s Sensibilities with Early 2000s Aesthetics: ‘Sakamoto Days’ Pilot Review appeared first on Black Nerd Problems.
Justin Timberlake is continuing his “Forget Tomorrow World Tour” in 2025, kicking it off on Monday, January 13. While the singer only has 16 shows left in North America before he jets off to Argentina for Lollapalooza, it’s not too late to get your hands on some tickets.
Throughout Timberlake’s tour, there have been some hiccups along the way where Timberlake was forced to reschedule a few shows due to health issues. The “Mirrors” singer took to his Instagram to share that he had to reschedule six shows, writing:
“You don’t seem like a Jo Malone type of girl.”
I remember when my girl Felice said that to me when I was raving about a fragrance I’d fallen in love with from the brand. After I quizzed her exactly on what she meant (I needed to understand if I should be offended), I learned that she and others, often associated this as a beloved brand of our parents generation, and not one of the trendier brands you’d often see as you scroll on #FragranceTok.
And while that may have been a theme once upon a time, I’m here to say, not anymore. Or at least, not in my eyes.
For those unfamiliar, Jo Malone London has been around since the early 90s, and yes, they have become synonymous with their coveted scents and luxurious products for bath, body, and home (and also yes, your parents probably love them). Their most loved scents include Wood Sage & Sea Salt, English Pear & Freesia, and Lime Basil & Mandarin.
But those weren’t even any of the ones that caught my eye (or nose). I came to find out I’m a Mimosa & Cardamom kind of girl, and I’ve been obsessed ever since I first got my nose on it. This isn’t just another pretty perfume – it’s a masterpiece that reveals new dimensions throughout the day, and it’s safe to say the brand has converted me, an elder millennial, to its fold.
But let me break it down for you, so you can fully understand the Jo Malone journey I went through with this scent. This fragrance opens with fresh cardamom, its spicy-sweet warmth immediately drawing you in. Don’t expect the typical heavy spice note found in other fragrances, though. Here, it’s delicate and precisely balanced, reminiscent of that perfect morning chai.
The heart of the fragrance showcases the true star – mimosa. For those unfamiliar with mimosa in perfumery (and many aren’t), picture delicate yellow flowers with a powdery, honeyed sweetness that feels both ethereal and grounding. This isn’t the mimosa from your brunch cocktail – this is the mimosa flower, a sophisticated bloom that brings a subtle almond-like quality to the composition. When these powdery floral notes merge with the cardamom, creating a warm, skin-like scent.
The dry down reveals creamy tonka bean and sandalwood base notes, grounding the composition with a soft, cashmere-like warmth that lingers beautifully. There’s also a whisper of damask rose weaving throughout, adding an elegant touch without overwhelming the composition.
Everything about this fragrance sounds like something I would love. So dare I say it — I am in fact “a Jo Malone type of girl” after all?
Why I love it: What makes this fragrance exceptional is its evolution throughout the day. In the morning, the cardamom note feels invigorating and fresh. By afternoon, the mimosa creates a sophisticated aura that’s both professional and uniquely personal. As evening approaches, the base notes develop into a cozy, intimate scent that feels like luxury in fragrance form.
Now here’s one thing to note — Jo Malone fragrances are formulated as colognes (making them lighter and airier than traditional eau de parfums), meaning although I love the scent I did need to reapply throughout the day to get this to last on my skin.So consider this your opportunity to revisit that magical first spritz or experiment with different layering combinations. And speaking of layering…
Perfect pairings: What makes this fragrance even more versatile is how beautifully it plays with others – both within and outside the Jo Malone collection. Layer it with Byredo’s Gypsy Water to amplify its woody undertones, or pair it with Le Labo’s Vanille 44 for a cozy, sweet embrace that feels perfect for winter evenings. For an unexpected twist, I’ve found it works beautifully with D.S. & Durga’s I Don’t Know What – the combination creates an ethereal, hard-to-pin-down scent that garners constant compliments. And on days when I want to lean into the spicier side, a spritz of Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Baccarat Rouge 540 transforms Mimosa & Cardamom into something utterly magnetic.
The British fragrance and lifestyle brand has earned its reputation for their unique portfolio of scents, from beloved classics to innovative new releases. They consistently reimagine the rules of perfumery by mixing unexpected combinations of ingredients and creating elegant yet playful concepts. Mimosa & Cardamom stands as evidence that Jo Malone London isn’t resting on tradition – they’re creating contemporary classics that resonate with a new generation of fragrance enthusiasts.
This scent has become my signature for good reason: it’s sophisticated without pretense, unique without being polarizing, and comfortable without fading into the background. So for those who’ve also dismissed Jo Malone as “not their type,” I encourage you to give Mimosa & Cardamom a chance. You might discover, as I did, that sometimes the most unexpected choices become the most perfect fits. After all, isn’t that what personal style is truly about?
The post ESScent Of The Week: This Unexpected Jo Malone Scent Became My Signature — And Here’s Why appeared first on Essence.
Logically you don’t really need that many sets of dice. Sure, it’s nice to have some extra collections on hand for friends who forgot to bring theirs to a D&D session. Thing is even then you can just use a dice app or random number generator. But who wants to be logical when it comes to dice sets? Do you have any idea how many fantastic ones you can buy? That includes one of the best we’ve ever seen, a delectable—though not edible—cheese dice set.
You might have seen it before, too. It’s so good it’s often used in online scams.
Kyra of Dutchy Dice is a self-proclaimed “part-time dicemaker, full-time dice enthusiast from the Netherlands” who makes custom sets. Her social media accounts are full of her incredible handmade designs. From bunnies and kimonos, to glow-in-the-dark and Powderpuff Girls, her dice come in countless colors, shapes, and themes.
While we love all of her sets, we’re especially partial to her cheese dice, one of the first she ever made. They look like real hunks of delicious yellow cheese with numbers in them. You can’t actually eat them, though, which is important to keep saying since it’s easy to forget when you look at them.
There’s obviously a real taste for her cheese pieces, something some bad people have noticed. Scammers have repeatedly used her photos to lure people like mice into a trap. It’s such a problem she even has videos alerting would-be customers and fans about these scams. Don’t fall for them. If you want anything from Dutchy Dice you have to contact her directly. In that Reddit thread about her cheese dice she wrote she makes “a few sets” once in awhile and then posts a “24 hour countdown” online. It’s then “first come first serve.”
Logical or not, we want to order all the great dice sets on Kyra’s menu. We just don’t want to see any other places putting her cheese dice on their pretend ones.
The post These Incredible Custom Cheese Dice Aren’t Edible But They Sure Are Delectable appeared first on Nerdist.
We’ve had just about enough of streaming cost increases to last a lifetime. In 2024, we swear streamers were hiking the prices of their platforms once a week. Streaming was supposed to be the great disruptor of cable, bringing consumers more choice, a better experience, and lower costs. But in recent years, it seems like quality-of-life no longer matters for streamers, and they’d rather just tack on ads, price increases, and whatever else they can do to squeeze every last dime out of a consumer. With so many cost increases happening in streaming all the time, it can be hard to keep track of just how many are happening. But we’re here to help. This year, we’re keeping track of all the streaming cost increases and streamer price hikes that take place.
We hope to report there are few to none, but we feel like that won’t be the case. We’ll keep this piece updated as streaming price increases come our way in 2025.
All the Streaming Price Hikes in 2025
1/7/2025 – Discovery+ Increases the Cost of its Ad-Free and Ad-Supported Plans
Seven days into 2025, we had our first streaming price increase. Discovery+ hiked its streaming costs for its ad-free and its ad-supported plans. If you’re subscribed to the streamer, here’s what you can expect. Beginning on 1/7/2025, Discovery+’s ad-supported tier increased from $4.99 to $5.99, a $1 price hike for the streamer. This is the first price hike the ad-supported Discovery+ tier has experienced since it’s launch in 2021. Meanwhile, Discovery+’s ad-free tier increased from $9.99 to $9.99, another 2025 increase of $1 per month. But it’s worth noting that in October 2023, the streamer increased its steaming costs from $6.99 to $8.99. That means in two years, the Discovery+ ad-free option increased by $3/month.
Those subscribed to Discovery+ will see the increased cost reflected in their next 2025 billing cycle or after February 7. Meanwhile, new customers will experience this change immediately.
How Many Streaming Price Increases Will We See in 2025?
We can’t wait to see which streamer increases its costs next. (Not.) But this piece does make us feel like we ought to place bets on just how many price hikes we’ll see this year. Over/under 20? We suppose only time will tell.
The post Every Streaming Cost Increase In 2025: Discovery+ Kicks Off the New Year With a Price Hike appeared first on Nerdist.
Although there are many Star Wars movies currently in development and many Disney+-focused Star Wars series with constantly rumored next seasons, there is only one canon Star Wars project currently planned for 2025. Disney recently confirmed its 2025 slate, and, noticeably, the only Star Wars canon project listed on its schedule was Andor season two. In 2024, for comparison, we saw six Star Wars television series cross our path. We’ve seen reports that Disney planned to reduce its output in such a way, but after the immense amount of Star Wars series that have released in past years, it does feel a little bereft.
Still, if we had to pick just one Star Wars project to see next year—it absolutely would be Andor season two. Andor‘s second season might be the only Star Wars project on Disney’s slate for 2025, but it will surely pack the punch of many. Season one of Andor was among the best seasons of television to ever exist, Star Wars or not. And we’re still thinking about what the show had to say about revolution, freedom, hope, and heroes.
Of course, it’s worth noting that while Andor is the only canon Star Wars project coming this year, we will also see season/volume three of the animated Star Wars series, Star Wars: Visions in 2025. Volume 3 will bring us nine new animated shorts from anime studios in Japan. However, Star Wars: Visions is not considered canon to the main Star Wars universe.
We bet that by 2026, we’ll have at least a few solid Star Wars movie announcements to accompany any further television series overtures. Ahsoka has a confirmed second season in the works, so we’ll likely see that. And rumors of another season of Obi-Wan Kenobi swirl all the time. One season of television series and one Star Wars movie per year is probably more than enough to keep fans happy without overworking the IP. However, if we’re getting only one Star Wars series per year, as we are in 2025, we would encourage Disney and Lucasfilm to set their sights on powerful fare like Andor and more original stories like The Acolyte. (And we wouldn’t mind The Acolyte season two either.)
Even if the Star Wars‘ world is literally shrinking with less projects releasing every year, we’d love for it to spiritually build. In the meanwhile, we’ll look forward to our only 2025 Star Wars offering, Andor season two.
Andor season two’s official synopsis shares:
“Andor,” the acclaimed thriller, returns for its long-awaited conclusion. The twelve episodes of Season Two will carry the story of Cassian Andor and the emerging rebel alliance over the climactic four years that lead to the discovery of The Death Star and the events of “Rogue One.” Season One followed Cassian’s reluctant journey from cynical nobody to revolutionary volunteer. “Andor” Season Two will see him transform from soldier to leader to hero on the way to his epic destiny. From the very first scene, Cassian’s story has activated an ever-widening ensemble of allies and enemies. Season Two will see these relationships intensify as the horizon of galactic war draws near. Everyone will be tested and, as the stakes rise, the betrayals, sacrifices and conflicting agendas will become profound. Who will live to see their dream realized? Who will realize what that dream cost?
Originally published on November 15, 2024.
The post ANDOR Season 2 Is 2025’s Only Canon STAR WARS Project appeared first on Nerdist.
Crunchyroll, the global anime brand, together with Aniplex, Sony Music, and PlayStation Productions, today announced a new anime series adapted from Sucker Punch Productions’ award-winning Ghost of Tsushima video game and its Legends cooperative multiplayer experience inspired by Japanese folktales and mythology.
The Ghost of Tsushima anime will be produced in collaboration with Aniplex, the studio behind globally celebrated series such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Solo Leveling, and Sword Art Online. The adaptation will be helmed by Director Takanobu Mizuno, with Gen Urobuchi (NITRO PLUS) for Story Composition and animation by KAMIKAZE DOUGA. Together, the team will bring Ghost of Tsushima: Legends’ traditional samurai aesthetics to life with cinematic storytelling and striking visuals. Sony Music will serve as the strategic music and soundtrack partner for the series.
“This project is a testament to the creative synergy within the Sony family, uniting the expertise of PlayStation Studios and PlayStation Productions; the creative team of Sucker Punch Productions and Aniplex; Sony Music’s iconic global artist roster; and Crunchyroll’s fan-first global marketing and distribution footprint,” said Rahul Purini, President of Crunchyroll. “The Ghost of Tsushima anime will offer fans an exciting new way to experience the game in an anime style that will be bold and groundbreaking.”
“Having already proven the immense quality and versatility of our gaming properties across multiple successful film and television projects, we couldn’t be more excited to announce our first ever anime adaptation,” said Asad Qizilbash, Head of PlayStation Productions. “Ghost of Tsushima’s rich, immersive world and its fantastical Legends mode based on Japanese mythology provide the perfect canvas for this project, and Aniplex is the perfect partner to translate Sucker Punch Productions’ hit video game into a stunning new anime series.”
“We are excited to create new opportunities for our artists to engage with such an incredible global IP,” said Tom Mackay, President, Premium Content, Sony Music Entertainment. “Music plays such a key role in the overall audience viewing experience and we are thrilled to be working alongside our Sony partners to develop compelling content for fans around the world.”
The series will premiere exclusively on Crunchyroll in 2027. More details, including the creative team and cast, will be revealed in the future. The announcement was made as part of Sony Group Corporation’s CES (Consumer Electronics Show) press conference in Las Vegas.
It is an understatement to say that Ghost of Tsushima hit the ground running and made in impact in the gaming world. Jin Sakai’s story of defying the samurai code and his tale of survival hit differently with players anywhere and everywhere. (Our site’s review here.) To quote another contributor, Omar: “My circle knows Jin Sakai put the pandemic on his back and got us through it”. Learning that another chapter in the game’s franchise opens to another character–to our new female protagonist, Atsu in a future game leads cheers, excitement and even the usual, tired discourse from gamers. To which, one of our newer contributors to the site Naliaah offered: “As for the rest of y’all upset about a female lead? Maybe you should try real combat—against your insecurities.”
We still don’t know an entire lot about The Ghost of Tsushima anime. We know that Takanobu Mizuno will be directing, of course. He is perhaps most recently best known for his work on Star Wars: Visions where he directed the ‘The Duel’ episode. It was a fave among the episodes and one where “a wandering stranger with a mysterious past defends a village from powerful bandits”. The rest of the creative team announced seems capable of handling the look, story and aesthetic of what we know of Ghost of Tsushima–but we won’t know for certain until we see more. Come 2027, looking forward to seeing more of this world, expanded–just animated, this time.
About Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is the global anime brand that fuels fans’ love of anime. With the ambition to make anime an even bigger part of pop culture, Crunchyroll offers fans the ultimate anime experience and destination centered around a premium streaming service. Crunchyroll has the largest dedicated anime library, an immersive world of events, exciting theatrical releases, unique games, must-have merchandise, timely news, and more. Anime is for everyone and is accessible to stream across territories through Crunchyroll—whether on the go on mobile, through gaming consoles and big-screen devices at home, or on desktops anywhere.
Crunchyroll, LLC is an independently operated joint venture between U.S.-based Sony Pictures Entertainment and Japan’s Aniplex, a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., both subsidiaries of Tokyo-based Sony Group.
About Aniplex
Aniplex Inc. is a diversified entertainment company operating worldwide with focus on the planning and production of anime video and music content, its distribution in theaters and broadcast syndication as well as their respective physical and digital products, development of related game apps and merchandise such as figurines and apparel, stage production of musicals and live events, and operating the online store “Aniplex Online” which provides hand-picked items for sale.
About PlayStation Productions
Formed in 2019, PlayStation Productions is a production studio dedicated to adapting beloved PlayStation IPs to television and film in collaboration with Sony Pictures Entertainment. In order to deliver high-quality content, PlayStation Productions focuses on partnering with leading creatives that have a strong appreciation for PlayStation Studios IP. Since its inception, PlayStation Productions has been integral in the development of multiple hit projects, including feature length films based on Uncharted and Gran Turismo, and TV series based on Twisted Metal and The Last of Us.
About Sucker Punch Productions
Sucker Punch Productions is the award-winning studio behind the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, inFAMOUS, and Sly Cooper series. Founded in 1997 and based in Bellevue, Washington, the studio is a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment and remains dedicated to creating immersive, visually stunning, and emotionally resonant gaming experiences.
About Sony Music Entertainment
At Sony Music Entertainment, we fuel the creative journey. We’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from the first-ever music label to the invention of the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse roster of international superstars, developing and independent artists, and visionary creators. From our position at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to the newest products and platforms, embrace new business models, employ breakthrough tools, and provide powerful insights that help our artists push creative boundaries and reach new audiences. In everything we do, we’re committed to artistic integrity, transparency, and entrepreneurship. Sony Music Entertainment is a member of the Sony family of global companies.
Winter Anime 2025 Season is here! Did you catch our site’s review of the start of season two of Solo Leveling?
Love anime? So do we! See what else we have to offer on the site via anime here!
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The post ‘Ghost of Tsushima’ Anime Announced for 2027 appeared first on Black Nerd Problems.
It’s the year 2020, and Mizuha is having the worst 17th birthday ever. Her parents forgot it’s her birthday, she still can’t seem to get close to the senior she likes, and all her school trips and tournaments are canceled thanks to a new disease going around. She’s convinced she’ll never have the kind of youth she’s always dreamt of…until her childhood friend, Mizuki, suddenly asks her out.
Here’s a mostly spoiler free review for the first episode of Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You which will premiere on Thursday, January 9, 2025 on Crunchyroll. A big thanks to Crunchyroll for the early access!
“An Awful Birthday”
The very first episode of Anyway, I’m Falling In Love With You begins with an adult Mizuha out in the big city, contemplating her adolescence after seeing some students walking the streets. She thinks back on the start of an awful birthday that she had as a teen when she was much more carefree. The audience is transported back to the morning of July 1, 2020 when she wakes up on her birthday–one that everyone seemingly has forgotten. On her way to school, she’s greeted by her four childhood best friends, whom she’s known all her life. She mentions all four boys are partially her siblings as they walk their way to their local high school where they are all second year students.
These childhood friends are the bespectacled Shuugo, the influencer Airu, the blonde and quite observant Shin, and the youngest of the group, Kizuki. Kizuki is perhaps the closest to our main character, labeled as “the baby” of the group, and someone Mizuhan sees as someone to look after. Finally at school, she comes to the realization that her slightly younger male friend is growing up and someone who is eye candy to the girls at school. She’s on a mission though–she’s hoping to meet someone at school who is important to her, and she has a message for them.
What initially drew me to Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You when I was reading the manga (read the Manga, Chapters 1-4, for Free via Kodansha) was Shojo romance via a crushing pandemic. Originally set during when the COVID-19, I remember reading the start of the manga series and really loving how the series was reflecting the times. Mizuha is a teenage girl during a year where everything is cancelled and postponed: sporting tournaments for her athletic friends, classes suspended, firework shows. The world hasn’t stopped completely, but nothing is going right for this girl in the grand scheme of being a teenager and all the plans she had. Not to be dramatic but she comes home that evening thinking to top it off that the people closest to her have forgotten her birthday!
You may watch this first episode of Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You and decide that there are no big action scenes. Yet, there is rising action and plenty of scenes where characters are sharing big confessions and connecting the dots on current events within their friend circle popping off. Yes, there are a few swimmers on the high school team (Kizuki is one of them), but this isn’t Free! – Iwatobi Swim Club.
Instead, I do like that most of the action focuses on Mizuha and the catalyst of this very important year of her life with all the transitions and changes that come with it. There’s a big pivotal scene toward the end that is very flashy that fits the high emotional intensity of the scene that audiences will be sure to pay attention to. I loved the nighttime scenes of Mizuha’s birthday evening where her friends surprise her and the audiences both–some serious and others and very comedic via the animation. I’m happy that Typhoon Graphics got assigned this series as they handled Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion, another Shojo/Josei leaning fave from the realm of manhwa quite well.
“Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You focuses on all the ups and downs of the brilliant adolescence of a teen girl whose life is upended in 2020. Shojo lovers will recognize a meaningful story starting to build in this very first episode that includes longing, discomfort and several realizations that will change lives forever.”
Verdict
Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You has given us a well-paced, charming first episode full of the highs and lows of teenage adolescence. I am a big fan of the story adapted from the manga that resonates for anyone watching who experienced growth, transitions, and many changes: good and bad. So far, it is looking like the manga’s distinctive story is being adapted well to anime, and it is engaging and entertaining to see a newer Shojo series blossoming in its anime version. I am a fan of seeing Mizuha and friends on screen and seeing their different personalities shine as she comes into her seventeenth year and one step closer to being an adult.
As a Shojo stan, I am always hoping that more and more Shojo anime gets to us in the ongoing and very much publicized Shojo anime drought–here’s a great video from one of my faves, Colleen of Colleen’s Manga Recs and another from Phoenix of The Anime Tea. Not only have we been in a decline of Shojo anime (and by association, Josei anime), we’ve also been in a decline of longer running adaptations. Yes, I’m looking at every twelve-episode series that we’ve been receiving with little to no communication of whether we are receiving another season or some other update to see more.
I very much want to see more Shojo anime and more interest from studios in bringing it to us as these stories are very important. Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You brings us a shining example of the genre focusing on all the ups and downs of the brilliant adolescence of a teen girl whose life is upended in 2020. Shojo lovers will recognize a meaningful story starting to build in this very first episode that includes longing, discomfort and several realizations that will change lives forever.
Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You
Premiering on Crunchyroll
January 9, 2025
– PRODUCTION STAFF –
Based on the Manga Anyway, I’m Falling in Love With You Created by
Haruka Mitsui
Directed by
Junichi Yamamoto
Series Composition Written by
Yu Murai
Script Written by
Yu Murai and Nagisa Nario
Character Design
Io Shiiba
Sub-Character Design
Katsuzo Hirata
Rena Okuyama
Prop Design
Yoshihiro Ujiie
Daiki Ueda
Art Director
Atsushi Satomi
Art Director
Yuriko Imose
Color Design by
Chieko Hibi
Director of Photography
Yuzuru Funakoshi
Editor
Tsuyoshi Imai
Music Composed by
Keiji Inai
Sound Director
Yasunori Ebina
Animation Producer
Takashi Sakurai
Animation Production by
Typhoon Graphics
– SONGS –
Opening Theme Song “Make It Count” Performed by
INI
Ending Theme Song “Negaigoto” Performed by
Marcy
– JAPANESE VOICE CAST –
Sakura Shinfuku as Mizuho Nishino
Kazuki Ura as Kizuki Hazawa
Sion Yoshitaka as Shin Kashiwagi
Shoya Chiba as Airu Izumi
Satoshi Inomata as Shugo Hoshikawa
Yuto Uemura as Ryosuke Saito
Azusa Tadokoro as Chika Kurashiki
Yūichirō Umehara as Tōgo Hoshikawa
Kaori Nazuka as Manami Shiraishi
About Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is the global anime brand that fuels fans’ love of anime. With the ambition to make anime an even bigger part of pop culture, Crunchyroll offers fans the ultimate anime experience and destination centered around a premium streaming service. Crunchyroll has the largest dedicated anime library, an immersive world of events, exciting theatrical releases, unique games, must-have merchandise, timely news, and more. Anime is for everyone and is accessible to stream across territories through Crunchyroll—whether on the go on mobile, through gaming consoles and big-screen devices at home, or on desktops anywhere.
Crunchyroll, LLC is an independently operated joint venture between U.S.-based Sony Pictures Entertainment and Japan’s Aniplex, a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., both subsidiaries of Tokyo-based Sony Group.
Cover image: ©Haruka Mitsui, KODANSHA/Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You Production Committee
Read the Manga, Chapters 1-4, for Free via Kodansha
Winter Anime 2025 Season is here! Did you catch our site’s review of the start of season two of Solo Leveling?
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The post Shojo Reflecting The Times: ‘Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You’ Episode 1 Review appeared first on Black Nerd Problems.
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Today, the nominees for the 31st annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards were announced, with the ceremony scheduled for late next month. Until then, we’re left to speculate the beauty moments we’ll see from the actresses—including Zendaya, who is engaged to her Dune: Part Two co-star Tom Holland—as they don the red carpet in understated glamour.
The Bear’s Ayo Edebiri—nominated for her outstanding performance as Sydney Adamu—often has luminous skin as the foundation of her beauty look, as seen at the W magazine pre-Golden Globes party (then, paired with a flipped bob). In the same category, a short pixie on Abbott Elementary’s Quinta Brunson has been her signature as of late, while monochromatic lip and eye makeup looks are a close second.
For Colman Domingo, his eyeliner at the Met Gala is in for a much anticipated return with the men’s makeup industry on an uptick. Wicked topped the SAG Awards with five nominations, including Cynthia Erivo’s outstanding performance, supported by her dramatic, decorated manicures (see: the 2025 National Board of Review Gala).
From Zendaya’s Fendi micro-bang to a slick back on Zoë Saldaña, take a look at some of our favorite beauty looks from this year’s nominees.
Dune: Part Two, Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 25: Zendaya attends the Fendi Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2024 show as part of Paris Fashion Weekon January 25, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images for Fendi)
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Zendaya attends the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California.(Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 21: Zendaya is seen in Midtown on September 21, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by The Hapa Blonde/GC Images) Cynthia Erivo, Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role 
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 29: Cynthia Erivo attends the WSJ. Magazine 2024 Innovator Awards on October 29, 2024 in New York City.(Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images for WSJ. Magazine Innovators Awards)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 07: Cynthia Erivo attends the 2025 National Board of Review Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 07, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
Cynthia Erivo during the 82nd Annual Golden Globes held at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Michael Buckner/GG2025/Penske Media via Getty Images) Colman Domingo, Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role 
Colman Domingo at the Boucheron In America event during New York Ready to Wear Fashion Week held at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum on September 10, 2024 in New York, New York.(Photo by Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 06: Colman Domingo attends The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 04: (L-R) Colman Domingo and Quinta Brunson attend W Magazine’s Annual Best Performances Party at Chateau Marmont on January 04, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for W Magazine) Sheryl Lee Ralph, Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series 
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 19: Sheryl Lee Ralph attends The Fourth Annual Academy Museum Gala at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on October 19, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images)
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 14: Sheryl Lee Ralph attends the 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 14, 2024 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 24: Sheryl Lee Ralph attends the 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall on February 24, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/WireImage) Ayo Edebiri, Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series 
Ayo Edebiri at the 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards held at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall on February 24, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 04: Ayo Edebiri attends W Magazine’s Annual Best Performances Party at Chateau Marmont on January 04, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for W Magazine)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 15: Ayo Edebiri, winner of the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series award for “The Bear,” poses in the press room during the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on January 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images) Quinta Brunson, Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series 
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 19: Quinta Brunson attends the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures 4th Annual Gala in Partnership with Rolex at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on October 19, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Academy Museum of Motion Pictures)
Quinta Brunson at the 75th Emmy Gala held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on January 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 04: Quinta Brunson attends W Magazine’s Annual Best Performances Party at Chateau Marmont on January 04, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for W Magazine) Zoë Saldaña, Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role 
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Zoe Saldaña attends Netflix’s Golden Globe Afterparty 2025 at Spago on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Netflix)
Zoe Saldana poses in the press room at the 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards at the Palm Springs Convention Center on January 3, 2025 in Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Chad Salvador/Variety via Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 05: Zoe Saldaña attends the reception for a screening of Netflix’s ‘Emilia Pérez’ on December 05, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images for Netflix)TOPICS: celebrity beauty looks nominees sag awardsThe post Our Favorite Beauty Looks From The 2025 SAG Award Nominees appeared first on Essence.
It’s a wild world out there on the internet. There’s no denying that. Sometimes, it’s wild in an awesome way, where people’s weird and wacky dreams can come true. But the truth is that determining fact from fiction on the internet has become incredibly difficult. And now, it’s about to get a little bit more tangled. Following on the heels of the model set by Elon Musk’s Twitter (we guess, if there were a time to call it X, it would be now), Meta has announced that it will remove its fact-checking systems from Facebook and Instagram and replace them with Community Notes.
According to Mark Zuckerberg, the complicated fact-checking system Facebook had in place, which utilized independent third parties, made “too many mistakes,” had “too much censorship” and was “too politically biased.”
The Community Notes system will be slowly phased into the US over the next months as Fact Checking is phased out of Meta. Meta explains, “We plan to phase in Community Notes in the US first over the next couple of months, and will continue to improve it over the course of the year. As we make the transition, we will get rid of our fact-checking control, stop demoting fact-checked content, and, instead of overlaying full-screen interstitial warnings you have to click through before you can even see the post, we will use a much less obtrusive label indicating that there is additional information for those who want to see it.” Basically, though Community Notes will appear on content, they will not largely feature in a post. And also, the notes will be provided not by independent experts, but… by the community, whomever that might be.
Of additional note, a post from Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Meta, shares that in addition to the fact-checking updates, Meta will be “getting rid of a number of restrictions on topics like immigration, gender identity and gender that are the subject of frequent political discourse and debate.” Additionally, Meta’s trust and safety and content moderation teams will now shift from California to Texas, which mirrors Musk’s move of Twitter’s headquarters to the same state.
Make of all this what you will. And spend your time on the internet in places that make you feel safe and happy.
The post Meta Removes Fact-Checking From Facebook and Instagram, Shifts to Community Notes appeared first on Nerdist.
Could Robert Pattinson’s Caped Crusader, as we know him from Matt Reeves’ The Batman and its eventual sequel, be our DCU version of the iconic hero? Some rumors making the rounds suggest that James Gunn and DC Studios are at least considering the possibility. Now, we are not advocates for this idea at all. In our humble opinion, the DCU Batman, set to debut in The Brave and the Bold, should be separate from Reeves’ version. Gunn’s new DCU seems to have a totally different tone than what we’ve seen already in Reeves’ world. But let’s say it does happen. Could it work? Yes, maybe it could. Maybe. And there’s precedent for this approach in the pages of DC Comics.
DC Comics Set the Example for How a Realistic Batman Can Exist in a Fantastical Universe
It’s true, Matt Reeves’ version of Batman lives in a gritty, realistic Gotham City. One that doesn’t seemingly vibe with the world of Creature Commandos, or the upcoming Superman. But the comics were very much like this too once. In Frank Millers seminal Batman: Year One, which reintroduced Batman to the modern era, there wasn’t the slightest hint of anything sci-fi or supernatural. Miller’s Gotham was a real world version. (Ok, aside from one mention of “that guy in Metropolis.”) And yet, readers accepted that outside those panels, a far more fantastical DC universe was taking shape. We’ve only had one Reeves Batman movie so far. Technically, it’s early enough into this franchise that more fantastical elements might not feel totally out of place in a sequel.
There could also be a significant time gap between what we see in The Batman and future DCU projects like Superman. Yes, The Batman seemed to be taking place in the present day, or at the very least the 2020s era. But for all we know, Superman and other future DC projects take place in the near future. Enough time for the majority of costumed heroes to have appeared some years after Pattinson’s Batman hit the scene. Yes, Gunn said that his DCU will have some history, suggesting heroes as far back as WWII. But there could be a time gap between those characters and modern-day superheroes. Batman’s debut could theoretically slip into that window of time.
We’ve Seen This Approach Work Before, in the MCU
There’s precedent for all of this in the MCU. If one walked out of the theater in 2008 after having seen Iron Man, they probably were not aware that this technological hero existed in the same universe as Asgardian gods, ancient sorcerers, and giant purple aliens. But subsequent MCU movies like The Incredible Hulk and Iron Man 2 instantly let us know that the world was getting bigger. Matt Reeves could do the same in The Batman – Part II. Even if it’s just a mention of wilder goings-on happening outside the frame. Technically, it’s still early enough to retcon The Batman into being the first DCU movie without being too egregious about it, if they really want to.
Some Wanted Christian Bale’s Batman in the DCEU, Just as Many Want Robert Pattinson’s Batman in the New DCU
The debate over Robert Pattinson’s Batman joining the new DCU is a bit of déjà vu for superhero movie fans. Allegedly, after the massive success of Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy, executives at Warner Bros. wanted Zack Snyder’s then-upcoming Man of Steel (which Nolan produced) to take place in the same universe as his Batman films. The intent from the folks in charge was that Christian Bale’s Batman and Superman would eventually share the screen together. In hindsight, that likely would have been way more impactful. Not to mention, it would have produced a bigger box office. Allegedly, Nolan put his foot down, and maintained that his Batman’s story was separate (and over). Will Matt Reeves make the same demand for his Bruce Wayne? We’ll all find out soon enough.
The post Here’s How Robert Pattinson Could Become The DCU’s Batman appeared first on Nerdist.
Photo by Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/ Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images
A fast-moving wildfire has forced over 30,000 residents to evacuate the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles due to “life-threatening and destructive” winds that are rapidly spreading the flames.
The fire broke out on Tuesday morning. By 10:10 a.m. local time. In just a few hours, the fire expanded even further and the fire had burned over 1,200 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire)
Critical Fire Weather Alert:Southern California is facing a #CriticalFireWeather event through Thursday, with strong Santa Ana winds and low humidity creating extreme wildfire risks. One fire, the #PalisadesFire, has already ignited and is being driven by these high winds. 
… pic.twitter.com/LnUrJiDkWG
More than 10,000 households and over 13,000 structures are at risk from the blaze, according to Kristin Crowley, fire chief of the LA Fire Department as reported by The Associated Press.
California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed that many structures have already been destroyed, although no official number has yet been provided by officials. He also warned that the danger is not over, urging residents across Southern California to remain vigilant. Newsom noted that the worst of the winds is expected to hit between 10 p.m. Tuesday and 5 a.m. Wednesday.
The combination of dry conditions and powerful winds has fueled the fire, and these winds are predicted to strengthen overnight, with gusts up to 100 mph in some of the windiest areas. The windstorm could last for several days and roughly half a million utility customers are at risk of power outages.
This is a developing story. ESSENCE will provide updates as more information becomes available.
TOPICS: Los Angeles WildfiresThe post Los Angeles Wildfires Force 30,000 To Evacuate As Winds Fuel Flames, State Of Emergency Declared appeared first on Essence.