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Marvel(SeaPRwire) - Since DC Comics first introduced the concept with 1961’s Flash of Two Worlds and then refined the idea with 1985’s seminal Crisis on Infinite Earths, the multiverse has become a genre-specific staple of superhero comics, allowing storytellers to present unique and varied takes on everlasting characters and worlds that audiences have grown familiar with. It didn’t take long for the idea to spread across the industry – Marvel introduced their own version of a multiverse shortly afterwards, and the success of the concept led to ideas such as DC’s Elseworlds imprint and the Marvel What If? stories, both beloved series, at each company are dedicated to exploring their respective universes in ways never before seen.All these decades later, despite criticisms thrown at the trope, it seems like the multiverse will simply never perish in superhero storytelling. The Ultimate Universe, which began at the turn of the century in the year 2000, was Marvel’s attempt at modernizing and streamlining their decades of continuity for new audiences (it worked so well that it partially formed the basis for the MCU, which has now introduced its own multiverse), and recently, DC launched the Absolute Universe, a similar separate modernization with an emphasis on darker stories. Now it appears like Marvel is taking a page from their book, with a mysterious announcement that teases the impending arrival of a brand new universe.The Marvel Midnight tease from Marvel Comics. | Marvel An official announcement from Marvel Comics earlier today teased the introduction of the ominous-sounding “Midnight Universe,” a brand new publishing line arriving sometime this Fall. Details on the announcement were incredibly light, with the only reveals being a mysterious poster bearing the Midnight name, a Fall 2026 release date, and a mysterious tagline: “The light had its turn.”At first glance, there are a couple of different things this could be. The emphasis on darkness could be less literal and more metaphorical; Midnight could be an answer to DC Comics’ Absolute line, which emphasizes a darker tone and a more nihilistic depiction of the world (courtesy of being created by DC’s resident God of Evil, Darkseid). The Ultimate Universe certainly got darker as it went on under the guidance of Kick-Ass creator Mark Millar, but that wasn’t necessarily the intention when it started out – after the conclusion of Marvel’s recent revival of the Ultimate Universe, maybe this is them going back to the drawing board and starting from scratch with a harsher atmosphere in mind, something akin to the Marvel Knights relaunch of the late 90s/early 2000s which emphasized grittier stories revolving around characters like The Punisher and Daredevil.The Marvel Knights imprint practically saved certain characters like Daredevil in the late 90s by giving writers the space to tell darker, edgier stories. | Marvel ComicsThere’s also a short-lived storyline from 2021 named Dark Ages, in which a villain named The Unmaker destroys all technology on Earth, plunging the world into perpetual darkness with civilization reverting back to the level of the 1800s. It’s probably unlikely that this is what Midnight's is, but the tagline could be a reference to the fact that Midnight will be a universe devoid of light or electricity.Truthfully, the most likely answer is that the Midnight Universe will actually not be an “alternate” universe at all, and might actually be Marvel returning to one of their original roots: horror comics. In the 1950s, after the end of WWII superhero comics began to wane in popularity, paving the way for successful comics focused on horror elements such as Marvel Tales, The Tomb of Dracula, and Werewolf by Night. These comics were wildly popular all the way up through the late 70s, and even now, characters and ideas introduced in them (like Blade the Vampire Slayer or Count Dracula himself) still pop up on the mainstream superhero side of things.Marvel has a longstanding history of horror comics and the Midnight Universe could be a modern continuation of that lineage. | Marvel ComicsWhether or not the Midnight Universe is a new superhero imprint or a dedicated horror publishing line, it still continues the homegrown comic book trend of the multiverse, as there’s a high chance that if Midnight is successful, it’ll receive a proper universal designation (the same way that the MCU has been labeled Earth-199999 and canonically exists in the larger multiverse). Stories of alternate worlds have been a trope in comics longer than it hasn’t been at this point, and with Avengers: Doomsday looming on the horizon, it doesn’t appear that the two will be separated anytime soon.Marvel Midnight launches Fall 2026. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock(SeaPRwire) - A simple way to ensure a movie becomes a timeless classic is by linking it to a holiday, which naturally leads to annual rewatchings by fans. A Christmas Story and It’s A Wonderful Life are shown repeatedly during the holidays, When Harry Met Sally or The Apartment are ideal for New Year's viewing, and Groundhog Day is essential to watch on Groundhog Day.However, Disney has established itself as the leader in Halloween-themed films, with numerous entries like the Halloweentown series and The Nightmare Before Christmas, where spooky yet family-friendly content dominates Disney+. One of the studio’s most iconic Halloween movies recently experienced a resurgence and is now being expanded into a trilogy.Hocus Pocus became a Halloween staple back in 1993, and is now doubling down on its popularity. | Disney/Kobal/ShutterstockAccording to Deadline, Hocus Pocus 3 is officially in early development at Disney, with Kathy Najimy, Bette Midler, and Sarah Jessica Parker expected to reprise their roles. The trio first portrayed the witchy Sanderson sisters in the original 1993 film directed by Disney legend Kenny Ortega, quickly becoming a Halloween favorite and enduring costume choice for decades.In 2022, Hocus Pocus fell victim to Disney’s trend of reviving older properties—commonly referred to as “legacy-quel fever”—leading to the release of Hocus Pocus 2 after a 29-year hiatus. That sequel was well-received, and now the third installment is set to debut theatrically, unlike its predecessor, which launched only on Disney+.This isn’t the first time Disney has announced plans for a Hocus Pocus trilogy. In 2023, Sean Bailey, President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production, revealed intentions for a third film, but no further updates followed after he stepped down from his position in 2024, leaving the project uncertain. While this news may feel sudden, it actually stems from longstanding ambitions.The Sanderson sisters made a strong return to streaming in 2022 and are now aiming for the big screen. | Disney+The announcement also confirms that Disney’s recent strategy of embracing nostalgia is proving successful. Titles such as Disenchanted and Freakier Friday have taken stories from the '90s and ‘00s and reimagined them for today’s audiences and new generations. With Hocus Pocus back in motion, it can now conclude its narrative arc as a future Halloween classic.While fans often express concern over the abundance of remakes and sequels, it's undeniable that these projects resonate with viewers. And if they bring back cherished childhood characters, how could that possibly be a bad thing?Hocus Pocus is currently available to stream on Disney+. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Apple TV(SeaPRwire) - Apple TV is making a bold move with its upcoming series. Cape Fear is not merely a remake—it’s a reimagining of a Martin Scorsese remake of a renowned thriller classic. The stakes are high, but given that the project features producers like Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg, along with a star-studded cast, this adaptation stands a strong chance of succeeding.The latest trailer for the series confirms it’s doing more than simply adapting a classic narrative for television: it’s amplifying the original films’ key strength—their mastery of horror storytelling. Watch the new trailer for Cape Fear below.The series stars Javier Bardem as Max Cady, a recently released criminal, and Amy Adams and Patrick Wilson as Anna and Tom Bowden, the defense attorneys who previously represented him and now find themselves targeted in his quest for vengeance. Nothing will stand in his way, especially when it comes to pursuing the Bowden children.“Let me ask you a question,” Max says ominously. “What is your worst fear?” As the title implies, this trailer emphasizes the pervasive sense of dread, portraying Max Cady not just as a vengeful antagonist but as a chilling horror villain whose presence serves as a haunting consequence of the Bowdens’ past actions. He’s no longer seen casually enjoying a moment in a movie theater; instead, he delivers unsettling lines over a foreboding musical score.No one in the Bowden family is safe from Max Cady’s relentless pursuit. | Apple TVThis trailer underscores how genuinely frightening the story has become, employing cinematic techniques such as Dutch angles, dolly zooms, and the iconic close-up on an eye to heighten tension. A particularly jarring jump scare occurs when Natalie Bowden, the couple’s daughter, opens a cooler at the bottom of a swimming pool. Whatever lies inside remains a mystery until the series debuts—though it’s unlikely to be anything refreshing.Traditionally viewed as a revenge drama, Cape Fear takes a notably different approach in this adaptation, leaning heavily into horror. Given the longevity of the source material, any remake must offer a compelling justification for its existence, and this heightened focus on terror seems precisely what the story needed.Cape Fear premieres on Apple TV on June 5. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Marvel Studios(SeaPRwire) - “When you can do the things that I can,” Peter Parker (Tom Holland) says in Captain America: Civil War, “but you don’t, and bad things happen, they happen because of you.” This was a roundabout way of conveying Peter’s superhero ethos — “With great power comes great responsibility” — without stating it outright. Given that the character was only 15 at the time, the awkward phrasing was easy to overlook. At the very least, it signaled to fans that his origins as Spider-Man had already occurred—just off-screen.By the time Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) recruits Peter into the Avengers in Civil War, he had already gained his powers from a radioactive spider bite, and most viewers assumed he had also lost his Uncle Ben shortly afterward. These two events form the pivotal one-two punch that other Spider-Man films have rightly called his “canon event.” After all, it’s Uncle Ben who first imparts the lesson of great power and great responsibility—and when Peter fails to stop Ben’s death, those words become the foundation of his moral compass. It’s just as essential to Spider-Man’s origin as the murders of Thomas and Martha Wayne are to Batman’s: Could Peter truly become his neighborhood’s wall-crawling hero without it?If you ask Anthony and Joe Russo, the directors of Civil War, the answer is a casual, “Sure, why not?”Civil War doesn’t mention Uncle Ben for a reason: he’s not part of Peter Parker’s origin story. | Marvel StudiosThe Russos recently spoke with CBR’s Sean O’Connell to mark the 10th anniversary of Civil War and reflect on their approach to the complex narrative. The film served as the MCU’s introduction to both Spider-Man and Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman)—and while Black Panther received a strong debut, Spider-Man’s first appearance left fans puzzled for years.“Spider-Man was one of my favorite characters growing up, if not my favorite,” Joe Russo told O’Connell. It’s unfortunate, then, that the filmmaker appears to misunderstand what makes the character so compelling.The Peter we meet in Civil War shows at least a partial awareness of the consequences of his inaction, but the Russos treat that sense of responsibility and Uncle Ben’s death as separate elements, rather than interconnected moments that shape the character. Though they “related” to the idea of a boy burdened with “incredible responsibility,” linking that burden to a “sense of loss” didn’t align with their vision of Peter Parker.Peter isn’t responsible for Ben’s death in the MCU—and that’s a major omission. | Marvel Studios“In our minds, no, he wasn’t responsible for Uncle Ben’s death,” Russo says of Peter. “What Tom Holland brings as an actor, if he blamed himself for his Uncle Ben’s death, I think he becomes a very different character.”Yeah. Spider-Man. The character he becomes... is Spider-Man.Russo argued that if Peter were responsible for Ben’s death, it would have led to a different, “more intense” portrayal. That’s another fundamental misunderstanding of Spider-Man: while past versions of the hero have embraced the drama and tragedy of his origin, they weren’t solely defined by Peter’s loss. He’s famously upbeat, using humor and wit as defense mechanisms in the face of danger. But that’s a deliberate choice he makes in an increasingly frightening world. “I have to joke,” Spidey says in Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man #6, “‘cause what’s the alternative?”Peter wouldn’t automatically fall into endless brooding if his uncle died. The “intensity” Russo feared tapping into is actually just the decision to take life more seriously—a trait every Spider-Man needs in some form. Civil War’s choice to ignore this completely explains why the MCU’s version of the hero has felt off from the start.Future Spidey films had to work overtime to fill the gaps in the hero’s origin, giving Aunt May the role of Uncle Ben. | Marvel StudiosBy omitting Uncle Ben entirely, Peter remained in a state of emotional stasis throughout his solo trilogy. He constantly sought a father figure to replace him—but why? None of the Spider-Man films could explain it, and when director Jon Watts reassigned Ben’s death (and the “great responsibility” speech) to Marisa Tomei’s May Parker in No Way Home, that question was finally answered. It was somewhat satisfying to finally hear those words in the MCU—but again, it clashed with the Peter we first met in Civil War, a Peter who seemed to already understand the weight of his powers.There’s a sense that this version of Spider-Man may never feel entirely right, even as he prepares to return with as clean a slate as possible in Brand New Day. The Russos started things on the wrong foot for no good reason, stripping Spider-Man of his most powerful emotional anchor. Without it, something may always be missing from his journey; this iteration of the hero might never fully realize his potential.Spider-Man: Brand New Day swings into theaters on July 31. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Tor/Peter Gudynas.(SeaPRwire) - We are currently experiencing a surge in interest for unusual, science fiction–driven horror films centered around women. Whether it’s a robot performing a dance in a hallway, Elisabeth Sparkle and Sue failing to maintain balance, or a Native American girl pursued by a Predator, we seem to be in a brief renaissance of this subgenre. This style of speculative fiction has been present in science fiction for a long time, extending beyond just cinema into the realm of science fiction novels.It was inevitable that these two mediums would eventually intersect, leading to one of the most groundbreaking feminist science fiction novels being adapted for the big screen by a director and lead actor who are already well-regarded within the genre.The Babadook’s Jennifer Kent will write and direct The Girl Who Was Plugged In for the big screen. | Matteo Chinellato/NurPhoto/ShutterstockAccording to Deadline, Jennifer Kent, known for her work on The Babadook, has agreed to write and direct the 1973 science fiction novella The Girl Who Was Plugged In. Sophie Thatcher, recognized for her performances in Companion and Heretic, is set to star in dual roles. The narrative centers on a young woman confined to her bed who consents to remotely operate a genetically engineered teenager and utilize her to sway public opinion in a dystopian society where advertising is prohibited. Thatcher will portray both Philadelphia "P." Burke, the controller, and Delphi, her "puppet."The Girl Who Was Plugged In was initially authored by James Tiptree, Jr., an alias employed by author, artist, and Air Force veteran Alice B. Sheldon. Sheldon stands as one of the most captivating science fiction authors in history: she never made any public appearances but maintained extensive correspondence under the pseudonym Tiptree, including forming a pen pal relationship with Ursula K. Le Guin. She continued using the pen name even after her true identity became widely known until she fatally shot her husband and subsequently herself in 1987.Sheldon’s — or, more accurately, Tiptree’s — works typically explored themes related to second-wave feminism, which was influenced by her use of a male pseudonym. The Girl Who Was Plugged In is narrated from the perspective of a smarmy, male narrator, resembling a dystopian Rod Serling, who remarks things like “P. Burke proves apt. Somewhere in that horrible body is a gazelle, an houri who would have been buried forever without this crazy chance. See the ugly duckling go!”This is precisely the kind of intriguing subversion that would make for an outstanding episode of Black Mirror, or, in this instance, a sharp and intelligent science fiction movie.Sophie Thatcher will portray both the ill and suicidal P. Burke and her "perfect" influencer alter ego Delphi. | Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/ShutterstockBeyond its inclusion in a 1998 episode of the Canadian television series Welcome to Paradox, The Girl Who Was Plugged In has never before been adapted for the screen. (Composer Alan Menken did adapt it as the initial act of his musical Weird Romance, however.) Nevertheless, it is difficult to envision a more fitting duo to undertake such a distinctive story: Jennifer Kent has demonstrated her ability to craft a world brimming with dread and female anger in The Babadook, while Sophie Thatcher has appeared in numerous science fiction, horror, and science fiction-horror projects including Yellowjackets, The Book of Boba Fett, and Prospect.It is hoped that together, they can successfully capture the unique tone of this story—one that is neither ironic nor earnest and delves deeply into influencer culture long before the term itself gained widespread usage. If there is a reason this story has not yet been transformed into a movie, it is likely because it simply awaited a world ready for it.The Girl Who Was Plugged In does not yet have a release date. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Warner Bros.(SeaPRwire) - Not long ago, there was concern that The Devils might never be released again. Although it was originally shown in theaters in 1971—particularly successful in the U.K., where it ranked as the fifth-highest grossing film of the year—by the early 2000s, Ken Russell’s highly stylized dramatization of a notorious 17th-century French witchcraft trial had become nearly lost media.Interestingly, the studio responsible for making the film also played a role in its suppression: After releasing an edited version on pan-and-scan VHS in 1983, Warner Bros. shelved The Devils, declining to release it on any later home-video formats and rejecting offers from multiple distributors seeking to license it. According to Russell biographer Mark Kermode, studio executives found Russell’s film “distasteful.”That stance has clearly shifted. On May 6, Warner Bros. announced it would re-release The Devils in theaters this October through its new sub-label, Warner Bros. Clockwork, led by former Neon marketing executive Christian Parkes. This follows news of Warner Bros.’ newly restored 4K version of the film, assembled from the original camera negative, which is scheduled to premiere in the Classics section at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. That itself is noteworthy, but the major update is that this new 4K restoration runs 114 minutes.Redgrave’s performance was dismissed as “ridiculous” by critics, which of course means that it’s great. | Warner Bros. “So what?” you might ask. This brings us back to the issue of the film being deemed “distasteful.” Since its completion, The Devils has faced censorship and criticism, primarily due to accusations that it blends sexuality and religion in a blasphemous way. (To be fair, many supporters would agree—for them, the so-called blasphemy is precisely what makes the film compelling.) The Catholic Church denounced the film before its release, urging the Venice Film Festival to remove it from its lineup; they were unsuccessful, but their campaign influenced Warner Bros. enough that the studio cut the film down to 105 minutes for its theatrical debut.Thanks to advocates like Kermode—as well as Russell’s widow, Lisi Tribble Russell, who has dedicated herself to promoting her late husband’s work after his death in 2011—The Devils has been screened with key scenes restored in recent years. It has also appeared intermittently on streaming platforms since Shudder secured distribution rights in 2017, though only briefly. Notably, this latest theatrical release runs three full minutes longer than previous “uncut” versions, which typically clock in around 111 minutes (give or take a few seconds depending on the encoding).So what exactly has been restored? Before his passing, Russell admitted he removed “a few frames” here and there from the torture sequences. However, two specific scenes have consistently caused controversy. The more infamous is the “Rape of Christ,” a sexually charged orgy filmed in Russell’s exaggerated Baroque style, featuring nuns stripping nude and assaulting a statue of Jesus while a priest watches approvingly. Reports indicate this scene originally ran two and a half minutes. The other is shorter but equally provocative: co-star Vanessa Redgrave is seen masturbating with the charred femur of a man she previously accused of witchcraft (this “femur scene” has been recovered and appears in the 111-minute version; while not overtly graphic, it is undeniably disturbing).Whether priest or not, Oliver Reed’s impressive mustache deserves better. | Warner Bros. Even the portions of The Devils that passed censorship remain controversial, such as the sequence in which Redgrave’s Sister Jeanne envisions local priest Father Grandier (Oliver Reed)—whom she secretly lusts for—as Jesus descending from the cross.What truly makes The Devils provocative is not any single image, but the stark contrast it establishes between Grandier, who frequently breaks his vow of celibacy yet remains essentially good, and Sister Jeanne, who adheres strictly to Church rules but is spiteful and destructive toward others. In Russell’s interpretation, both the Church and the monarchy are equally corrupt, actively preventing believers from achieving genuine spiritual communion with God. No wonder the Catholic Church took issue with it.At minimum, this marks a sign of the Church’s waning cultural influence and stands as a testament to the enduring cult following surrounding the film. In a press statement, Clockwork describes this new 4K edition as the “definitive” cut, noting it “[reflects] the edit [Russell] privately constructed in 2004” and represents “the uncut and unfiltered theatrical experience Russell always envisioned—and the first time the film will be presented restored and in 4K.”The Devils returns to theaters in a limited release beginning October 17, 2026. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

United Artists Releasing(SeaPRwire) - Any competent action film must clearly define the stakes of its violence. A lone unnamed thug poses no more threat to John Wick than a sick puppy does to you, whereas much of the thrill in watching a thriller like Heat lies in witnessing two equally lethal forces attempting to outwit one another. This spectrum of lethality shapes an action movie’s mood and tone, which made it especially intriguing when, five years ago today, Guy Ritchie and Jason Statham introduced a terminator into a world brimming with would-be tough guys.In Wrath of Man, Statham, brace yourself, is driven by vengeance—but he seeks it among a crowd of posturing alpha males each harboring their own violent ambitions, none aware that a genuine killer walks among them. Patrick Hill (Statham) joins Fortico Security, later revealed to be motivated by the murder of his son during a chaotic armored truck robbery. He believes the criminals had inside help and sets out to uncover who it was while simultaneously launching a solo crusade against those responsible for his son’s death. His efforts impress some colleagues at Fortico while alarming others.Uncharacteristically for Ritchie—known for gangster action-comedies and later serving as a reliable director on big-budget spectacles like Aladdin and King Arthur: Legend of the Sword—Wrath of Man is dark throughout. Structured in four acts with stormy German subtitles such as “A Dark Spirit” and “Scorched Earth,” and rarely rising above bluntness except when Statham retorts to Post Malone’s “suck my dick” with “suck your own dick” before shooting him dead, Ritchie’s grim script and meticulous attention to logistical detail elevate the world of armored car security into something approaching Shakespearean tragedy.The result is a film that functions both as a critique of hollow tough-guy masculinity and as an ode to Jason Statham’s cool. Wrath of Man never fully reconciles these dual impulses, but the attempt proves compelling. Narrated non-linearly, with clues about Hill and his targets gradually unfolding, the story ventures into Los Angeles’ underworld only to falter under excessive self-importance reminiscent of Ritchie’s baffling 2005 film Revolver. The only hint that Hill’s bloody quest may carry moral weight comes when it costs him his marriage—yet even then, he remains the poster boy for alpha male clichés in nearly every scene.Among the supporting cast, Holt McCallany shines as Hill’s affable instructor. | United Artists ReleasingWhile some critics dismissed Wrath of Man as shallow or glib, every character besides Statham who attempts to emulate machismo ends up dead—often dragging others down with them. Hill’s son is killed not because of any grand conspiracy, but simply because a guard gets swept up in adrenaline-fueled bravado, believing he can channel his inner Jason Statham. Every other security guard who opens his mouth to boast about taking on impossible odds meets the same fate. And once the mole is exposed, it becomes clear that even the most cunning betrayers don’t enjoy long lifespans. Among all characters, only Fortico’s paper-pushing manager—the sole individual who senses Hill is a terrifying sociopath rather than a hero worth imitating—survives without dying for someone else’s profit.As for the thieves themselves, they turn out to be Afghan veterans struggling to find work. They claim they’re resorting to armed robbery solely to support their families, but soon it becomes apparent that they miss the rush of planning, executing, and sometimes killing missions. Given how little mainstream American pop culture engaged with Afghanistan and Iraq at the time, Ritchie’s portrayal stands out: the group’s leader (Jeffrey Donovan) appears as a warm family man in one moment, then coldly discusses acceptable civilian casualties in the next. It’s no The Deer Hunter, but it’s far from mindless entertainment.How will Jason Statham wriggle his way out of this one? | United Artists ReleasingAll of this positions Wrath of Man somewhere between John Wick and Heat—though neither comparison feels entirely apt (partly because Wrath is a loose remake of the less Statham-centric 2004 French film Le Convoyeur). The middle section, where Statham truly unleashes his signature persona, falters, but the climactic heist delivers such intense, visceral tension that it more than compensates for earlier meandering. This raises a tantalizing question: what might Ritchie achieve with a cleaner, more focused take on the heist genre?Ultimately, Wrath of Man serves as a cautionary tale: no amount of testosterone-charged bluster can make you Jason Statham. There’s only room for one Statham per narrative, and odds are, you’re not him. In John Wick, the fear stems from knowing John Wick lurks in the shadows; here, the true terror arises from realizing that while you’ve convinced yourself you’re an untouchable badass, someone else actually is. And by the time you grasp that truth, it’s already too late.Wrath of Man is now streaming on Netflix. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Marvel Studios(SeaPRwire) - Given the prominence of superhero activity within New York City across Marvel’s film universe, it’s surprising how little attention television narratives have received in comparison. The first two seasons of Daredevil: Born Again depict Wilson Fisk’s transformation from a career criminal into a political figure who secures the position of mayor—a development that clearly unsettles his longtime adversary, Daredevil. Such a significant change would naturally influence events well beyond Hell’s Kitchen. In the source material, this shift indeed triggers widespread effects throughout the broader Marvel universe. However, the teaser for Spider-Man: Brand New Day suggests that Kingpin’s new role and the anti-vigilante legislation he supports appear to have minimal impact outside the confines of Born Again.Now, following last night’s season finale, Wilson Fisk has officially lost his position as mayor. His downfall comes after the public revelation of Daredevil’s secret identity undermines his judicial support, while a civilian uprising erodes his popularity among the people. The trailer for Brand New Day also confirms that Sheila Rivera, Fisk’s former Chief of Staff, will assume the role of interim mayor until a permanent replacement is elected. This turn of events adds a compelling twist, one that is poised to intensify further with the return of the Defenders in the upcoming season—a team featuring a Harlem native hero who previously served as mayor in recent Marvel Comics storylines.The initial trailer for Brand New Day revealed Sheila’s appointment as mayor, but whether this proves permanent remains uncertain | Marvel StudiosIt has been eight years since Luke Cage last appeared on screen, as Netflix canceled his series in 2018. Now, Mike Colter’s portrayal of the character is set to make a comeback in the next season of Daredevil. At the time of his final appearance, Luke was managing the Dillard nightclub—an ironic gesture from beyond the grave meant to symbolize his new responsibilities as the unofficial law enforcer of Harlem. If a third season had aired back then, it would have explored the moral dilemmas facing Luke in this role. Yet, current developments in Born Again suggest this storyline has been largely abandoned. Instead, the series reveals that Luke now shares a daughter with Jessica Jones and has been working under mysterious circumstances for Mr. Charles. While it seems unlikely we’ll see “Sheriff of Harlem” Luke again, it doesn’t mean the MCU has no future plans for him. Drawing inspiration from his comic book journey, such plans could include a dramatic career shift.In the Devil’s Reign miniseries—which forms the basis for much of Daredevil: Born Again—the city’s heroes endorse Luke Cage as an alternative candidate against Mayor Fisk’s campaign. However, they soon discover that Fisk manipulated voters by exploiting Zebediah Killgrave, aka the Purple Man, who was imprisoned at the time. A coalition of vigilantes, including Luke, Jessica Jones, Spider-Man, Captain America, Daredevil, and Joseph (the Purple Man’s son), ultimately defeated both Killgrave and Kingpin. With Fisk disqualified, Luke Cage became the only viable choice for mayor. As leader, he worked to dismantle the anti-hero task force established by Fisk, restructure the corrupt Thunderbolts organization into something more legitimate, and address escalating gang conflicts following Fisk’s removal from office.Becoming mayor marked the culmination of Luke’s growing leadership skills, which began with his introduction in 2005’s New Avengers. | Marvel ComicsDue to significant differences in how the MCU adapted Devil’s Reign, it’s unlikely Luke will become mayor in this iteration. Still, the possibility isn’t entirely off the table: the interim mayor, Sheila Rivera, was directly involved in Fisk’s murder of the police chief during the first season finale, raising questions about her eligibility for office. Replacing her with Luke Cage could offer two key narrative benefits: first, the pressures and compromises of political life might create tension between him and his fellow heroes, including his wife; second, it could serve as a meaningful bridge between the TV-focused New York and the cinematic Marvel Universe. Unlike Mayor Kingpin—whose crossover potential is limited due to legal rights issues involving Sony—Luke’s mayoral tenure could unify these worlds. Though slim, the chance that Harlem’s Defender assumes office would be a powerful affirmation of his importance now that he’s officially stepping into the wider Marvel Universe.Daredevil: Born Again streams on Disney+. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

(SeaPRwire) - When Doctor Who debuted in 1963, it was originally conceived as an educational history series, featuring the Doctor traveling through time to interact with historical figures—hence why the first companions were teachers. Though audiences gravitated more toward the science fiction elements, Doctor Who never abandoned its historical roots, including storylines involving Winston Churchill, Queen Victoria, William Shakespeare, and Richard Nixon.Twenty years ago, one such historical episode unfolded a poignant cross-century love story. At the time, it stood out as a visually stunning standalone episode with lasting impact. Yet, in hindsight, it marked the beginning of a significant shift in tone for the entire show.Steampunk-style clockwork robots pursue the King’s mistress in “The Girl in the Fireplace.” | BBC StudiosSet across two vastly different eras, “The Girl in the Fireplace” follows Reinette (Sophia Myles), also known as Madame du Pompadour, who witnesses the Doctor appearing through mysterious portals in her fireplace throughout 18th-century France. In contrast, the Doctor (David Tennant), Rose (Billie Piper), and Mickey (Noel Clarke) encounter a completely deserted spaceship in the 51st century. However, appearances are deceiving: in France, Reinette is being terrorized by unsettling clockwork drones masked in porcelain, while aboard the ship, advanced technology has been replaced with human body parts.For the Doctor, these events occur within a single day, but for Reinette, he remains a constant presence throughout her lifetime—never aging or changing. He becomes her imaginary companion, making her involvement in the unfolding mystery all the more emotionally charged. In the climactic moments, the Doctor promises he’ll return soon, unaware that by then, it will already be too late for Reinette. The episode culminates in a twist reminiscent of The Twilight Zone, revealing that the clockwork droids had been protecting Reinette because the spaceship they served was named after her—and they simply misunderstood their mission.This adventure was penned by Steven Moffat, who had previously crafted the acclaimed two-part story “The Empty Child/The Doctor Dances” during Season 1. The episode is rich with references, including the Clockwork Droids echoing the infamous Mechanical Turk automaton hoax, and notably, the central romance draws inspiration from the novel The Time Traveler’s Wife.“The Girl in the Fireplace” marks the start of Steven Moffat’s recurring non-linear love narratives. | BBC StudiosThe “time-crossed lovers” motif would become a hallmark of Moffat’s writing throughout his tenure on Doctor Who. As a writer, he later introduced River Song in “Silence in the Library,” his wife who traveled through time in a non-linear fashion and became a major character. As showrunner, he explored similar themes in “The Eleventh Hour,” where Amy Pond meets the Doctor and is told he’ll return—only for years to pass, transforming him into her imaginary friend—and in “The Big Bang,” where Amy’s husband, Rory, endures 2,000 years of waiting to safeguard her inside the Pandorica. In a full-circle moment, Moffat even adapted The Time Traveler’s Wife into its own miniseries.This fascination with love fractured by the constraints of time now defines much of Moffat’s work. “People always used to ask me, ‘Why do you do out-of-sequence storytelling?’” Moffat told Inverse in 2022. “And I'd always say to them, is your memory in the right order? When you think about yourself, do you go from being born to being 1 year old to 2 years old? No, it's a chaotic jumble. You wouldn't even know what the order was.”That enduring obsession with love torn apart by having to take “the slower way” can all be traced back to this episode. While there are more tangible legacies—such as the Clockwork Droids reappearing in the Season 8 premiere “Deep Breath”—“The Girl in the Fireplace” truly represented a turning point in Doctor Who, transforming the series’ approach to time travel from educational to speculative science fiction, and nearly romantic.Doctor Who (2005-2022) is available to rent on Prime Video, Apple TV, and other platforms. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Amazon Prime Video(SeaPRwire) - It may be hard to believe, but the main The Boys series is nearly finished. With just two episodes remaining, Amazon is preparing to debut the finale in theaters a few hours early. However, the conclusion of The Boys does not signal the end of its universe; several spinoffs are in the works, and showrunner Eric Kripke has stated he is actively developing more ideas.The most recent episode places the next spinoff in the spotlight, depicting the conclusion for characters whose origins will be explored decades earlier later this year. It is a pivotal plot development that also serves as an overt setup for the franchise's future.Warning! Spoilers ahead for The Boys Season 5 Episode 6!Golden Geisha doesn’t want immortality, making Kimiko realize she feels the same way. | Amazon Prime Video The Boys Season 5 Episode 6, “Though the Heavens Fall,” continues the hunt for V1, the original Compound V formula that confers virtual immortality, explaining Soldier Boy's youthful appearance past age one hundred. The team learns their best lead is finding Bombsight, leading them to a Vought retirement community for elderly Supes. Although Bombsight received V1, his longtime partner Golden Geisha did not, so he has preserved a sample to unite them eternally.This plan hits a snag when Golden Geisha rejects eternal life—a sentiment Kimiko shares, creating a problem since their mission hinges on Kimiko using V1 to survive the Supe virus. The situation culminates in a face-off between Soldier Boy and Bombsight, both V1 recipients, who debate the pros and cons of immortality. Soldier Boy then proposes a deal: if Bombsight surrenders his V1 sample, Soldier Boy will use his radioactive blast to eliminate Bombsight's immortality, letting him age alongside his love.Bombsight is the key to Homelander getting V1 — and a main character in Vought Rising. | Amazon Prime Video Once Soldier Boy possesses the V1, a larger dilemma emerges: who should receive it? The answer, regrettably, involves an absent character: Clara Vought, who has had romantic connections with both Soldier Boy and Homelander. (A popular fan theory suggests Clara is Homelander's biological mother. The situation is complex.) Homelander is aware of Soldier Boy's hatred for him, but Episode 5 revealed an underlying, peculiar father-son connection persists. Once more, Soldier Boy's emotions override his judgment, and he hands the V1 to Homelander, believing it is what Clara would have desired.While this is an episode of The Boys, the three central figures in this critical storyline—Bombsight, Soldier Boy, and Clara Vought—are all leads in the upcoming prequel spinoff, Vought Rising, slated to premiere after the main series ends. This monumental decision barely involves the core The Boys cast, but perhaps such expansion is necessary for the franchise's evolution.The Boys Season 5 is now streaming on Prime Video. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Lucasfilm(SeaPRwire) - Anakin Skywalker stands as the central protagonist of the Star Wars saga, the Chosen One tasked with balancing the forces of good and evil. Nearly every story in the franchise connects back to him, exploring his origins or reinforcing his legendary status. Yet, what role does his dark persona, Darth Vader, play within this grand narrative? According to Dave Filoni, president of Lucasfilm, both Anakin and Vader form the “backbone” of Star Wars—but they serve very different purposes within the saga.In certain canonical works, Darth Vader appears as an alternate identity for Anakin. After becoming Vader, his original self is nearly erased, allowing him to carry out his duties under Emperor Palpatine without completely losing his sanity. This separation has long been a foundational element in understanding the duality between Anakin and Vader, but it wasn’t until Vader appeared in this week’s episodes of Maul – Shadow Lord that the distinction was made explicitly clear.Though they share the same body, Darth Vader is “not Anakin,” and Anakin is not Vader. | LucasfilmMost post-prequel Star Wars stories feature Vader in a similar way: as a silent, menacing force—a bogeyman who emerges from the darkness to eliminate threats before vanishing again. He decimated rebels in Rogue One, instilled fear among his own Inquisitors in Obi-Wan Kenobi, toyed with his former apprentice Ahsoka Tano in Rebels, and remains an unstoppable force in Maul, cutting through crumbling structures and dense jungle terrain to dispatch any opponent daring to challenge him with a lightsaber.Beyond his iconic breathing, Vader never speaks. That’s because he has buried all traces of his personality beneath layers of trauma.“He’s not Anakin,” Filoni explained during a recent event marking the finale of Maul. “He doesn’t recognize that. He can’t. Anything that reminds him of Anakin, he destroys. When he sees a Jedi, he destroys them—because the Jedi unconsciously or consciously remind him of his betrayal: abandoning all his friends, everything he once knew, and the life he built—all for nothing.”Even if Maul offers new insights into Vader’s journey, he remains an undefeated Sith Lord. | LucasfilmAccording to Filoni, Anakin exists “trapped” inside Vader, but Darth Vader actively suppresses him from emerging. What takes Anakin’s place is largely a void—especially in the immediate aftermath of his transformation in Revenge of the Sith. Since Maul is set just one year after Anakin becomes Vader, this iteration of the character represents his most ruthless and emotionally detached form.“The key is not to give him a personality,” Filoni emphasized. “It’s like the moment he descends the hallway in Rogue One. He doesn’t speak to those soldiers. He simply moves forward to destroy them. His mission is singular, and every swing of his lightsaber channels all his remorse, anger, and hatred. That’s how it’s resolved.”Filoni also stresses restraint when featuring Vader too prominently, since George Lucas had already defined his arc. “He’s a powerful character,” Filoni noted. “This is George’s creation. This is the emotional core of the entire saga, and you must avoid anything that undermines it.”That said, series like Obi-Wan and Rebels do experiment with Vader’s evolution. While he may act as a mindless weapon in Maul, later depictions show him developing into a more calculated and strategic adversary. As long as newer stories don’t compromise the emotional impact of Return of the Jedi, Vader remains open to interpretation. Ideally, additional explorations of Vader deepen our understanding of his enigmatic nature—provided filmmakers respect the underlying rule established by Maul.Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord is now streaming on Disney+. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Marvel Studios(SeaPRwire) - Bullseye (Wilson Bethel) would have willingly sacrificed his life to atone for his numerous past misdeeds in the latest season of Daredevil: Born Again. After successfully assassinating Vanessa Fisk (Ayelet Zuror), the vigilante known as Benjamin Poindexter is prepared to retire — and he nearly does so on several occasions during Season 2. His survival is already a surprise, but Daredevil may also be laying the groundwork for a far more compelling second chapter in this villain’s story.Spoilers follow for Daredevil: Born Again.The much-anticipated confrontation between Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) and Mayor Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) concludes without either side achieving true satisfaction. With Matt revealing himself as the Man Without Fear—Daredevil—he is imprisoned for his actions. Fisk is similarly exiled from New York, leaving the city without both its most formidable protector and its most relentless ruler. Only Poindexter appears content with how events have unfolded: at the close of the Season 2 finale, he is seen departing the city alongside Mr. Charles (Matthew Lillard), a shadowy CIA operative with a keen interest in individuals who possess enhanced abilities.Mr. Charles whisks Bullseye off to places unknown at the end of Born Again Season 2. | Marvel StudiosAs revealed in earlier episodes, Mr. Charles operates under the direct authority of CIA Director Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and has been quietly recruiting heroes—such as Mike Colter’s Luke Cage—for covert missions abroad. Bullseye is likely to become his next project, especially since Luke returns home to his family by the conclusion of Born Again. But could Bullseye instead take charge of his own clandestine squad? Perhaps even lead a new iteration of the Thunderbolts?“I would absolutely love to do something like that,” Bethel tells Inverse. “So keep your fingers crossed. I’ll keep mine crossed. Let’s see what happens.”Bullseye has previously been part of the Thunderbolts, though not always voluntarily. In the comics, he joined the team amid the chaos of Civil War but showed little enthusiasm for their opposition to heroes like Spider-Man. He was also notoriously unreliable as a teammate: his uncontrollable urge to kill made him someone no one trusted. At times, he was even chained in a cell between assignments to ensure the safety of the others.That said, the version of Bullseye introduced in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is notably calmer and, paradoxically, more psychologically coherent than his comic-book counterpart. While he prefers operating solo, he has proven capable of working effectively with Daredevil when their goals align. This might suggest he’s more adaptable as a team player than the original comic book character ever was. Bethel is eager to explore that potential — but before Bullseye can join any new group, Daredevil: Born Again must first bridge its current disconnection from the broader MCU.Bullseye proved he can be a team player this season. Could a genuine team-up be next? | Marvel StudiosThis season of Daredevil carries significant implications not only for the franchise itself but also for other heroes based in New York. It follows directly after the events of Thunderbolts, which plunged New York into another major crisis. Yet Born Again Season 2 gives no indication it exists within the same world as Thunderbolts or any other Marvel film. According to Bethel, that’s exactly how showrunner Dario Scardapane intends it.“Dario frequently emphasizes that while we are officially part of the larger MCU now, this street-level universe still maintains its own distinct space within the overall ecosystem,” Bethel explains. “I believe that approach greatly benefits the show as it continues to develop.”Still, Bethel acknowledges it would be “incredibly exciting” to eventually integrate Bullseye into the wider Marvel narrative. His decision to leave New York with Mr. Charles opens up countless possibilities for his future, so Bethel remains deliberately noncommittal—leaving the door open with a playful “We’ll see.”Daredevil: Born Again streams exclusively on Disney+. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

(SeaPRwire) - In the 2010s, the prevailing trend in television was to treat the medium as an extended film. The phrase “10-hour movie” was frequently used, as streaming binge models encouraged viewers to consume episodes consecutively, often late into the night. This approach has shifted in recent years with streamers gradually reintroducing weekly releases. Now, a new method of treating TV like a movie is emerging: theatrical releases of pivotal episodes.Since select episodes of Game of Thrones were shown in IMAX, "fan events" and theatrical releases of TV shows have become increasingly common, with the Stranger Things series finale being a recent example. Now, another popular series is heading to theaters for its final episode, and it comes with a unique twist.The Boys Season 5 will end in theaters. | Amazon Prime VideoThe Boys Season 5 has been sparing no expense for the over-the-top superhero series’ concluding season. Last week, an anthology episode featured a star-studded cameo list and a poignant exploration of how Homelander’s pursuit of immortality impacted Firecracker’s faith. Two more episodes remain after this week's installment.For a more immersive viewing experience, you can catch the series finale in theaters. However, in true The Boys fashion, it won't be a typical cinema outing. Amazon has announced that the finale will be presented in 4DX, an experience that includes moving seats, bursts of air, strobe lighting, water sprays, and even scents.Admission doesn't require a ticket purchase; seats are available with the purchase of a concession voucher, which can be used towards popcorn that might end up scattered on the floor as you're jostled in your seat. It might be best not to overthink how a series as graphic and visceral as The Boys will incorporate smells and liquids.If you are susceptible to motion sickness and are questioning the necessity of the "feel it in 4DX" experience, it's worth noting an additional benefit beyond discovering what Homelander might smell like. These theatrical screenings are scheduled for May 19, while the series finale is slated to stream on May 20. This means attendees of these screenings will witness the conclusion of The Boys before anyone else, potentially leading to widespread spoilers hours before the episode is available at home.Therefore, if you've been eagerly anticipating the final confrontation between Billy Butcher and Homelander, you might want to either isolate yourself or secure a kinetically-enhanced seat at your local theater. Just be sure to hold on tight to your beverage.The Boys Season 5 is streaming on Amazon Prime Video. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Marvel Studios(SeaPRwire) - Back in 2016, critics often knocked Captain America: Civil War by arguing it was basically just another Avengers film. For die-hard Captain America fans, this was also a source of frustration: Chris Evans’ Star-Spangled Man had already fronted two strong team-up movies with the Avengers, but his standalone trilogy had its own distinct vibe—at least, until it was time to wrap up the series.In 2016, no one could have guessed that Civil War marked the start of the end—ending Marvel’s unrivaled dominance, the Avengers’ close-knit bond, and Steve Rogers as a character with consistent logic. It was the first key step toward Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, which permanently split the team and (depending on your perspective) did the worst possible disservice to Steve’s character. After Endgame, his “Man Out of Time” title gained a new layer: he’d never lead another solo movie or properly wrap up his story outside of a large ensemble production.That unfulfilled potential is part of why Civil War feels even more meaningful today. Admittedly, the Avengers were already taking over the screen—Civil War acts as a semi-origin story for two major heroes—and Tony Stark’s moody, overbearing nature only makes it feel less like a Captain America film. But considering what came later, it’s amazing that such a busy film ended up feeling… genuinely epic.If any Marvel arc had to merge into the Avengers universe, the Captain America trilogy was the perfect choice. Directors Anthony and Joe Russo had just shown their talent for tight, team-focused stories with Captain America: The Winter Soldier, making them ideal for a new type of Avengers film. The witty, snarky banter of Joss Whedon’s original Avengers and Age of Ultron wouldn’t work with a threat like Thanos looming. It was time to get serious, and who better to lead that shift than the directors who’d saved Steve from Whedon’s unflattering portrayal? (The Captain America in Whedon’s Avengers films is #NotMyCap, and always will be!)At the end of the day, Civil War’s success comes from its pervasive sense of unease. The Avengers were a ticking time bomb from the moment Steve first told them to assemble—even though they competently saved the world from an alien attack, Civil War finally poses the question: have they made the world worse since then? Ultron’s (James Spader) creation naturally sparks this question, but it’s also the final straw for a team that’s been falling apart for a while.The Sokovia Accords—named for the city Ultron turned into a falling meteor—set Steve and his allies against Tony, who’s driven by misplaced guilt and unresolved grief over his parents. Then there’s Steve’s ongoing hunt for his childhood best friend, Bucky (Sebastian Stan). There’s the cunning Baron Zemo (Daniel Brühl), a Sokovia survivor out to avenge his family by splitting the Avengers apart. There’s Wakanda’s prince, T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman), who’s also seeking revenge for his father’s murder. And there’s an army of Super Soldiers, similar to Steve and Bucky, ready to destroy the world as we know it.Civil War is a crowded affair, but it did more for the Avengers than any of its sequels. | Marvel StudiosWhat’s striking is how little of this actually matters by the end of Civil War. The Russo brothers, working with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely (the pair behind every Captain America film and all Avengers movies after Ultron), throw everything they have at this breaking team. It might seem like overkill, but it’s the only way to justify adding so many future Avengers. When Steve and Bucky go on the run, Tony swears to catch them—but he’s not content with the small group of Avengers already on his side. He brings T’Challa and a 15-year-old Queens crime-fighter, young Peter Parker (Tom Holland), onto his team. They help him in a generic fight at a gray German airport, which was obviously the main reason for this ensemble story—much like the train scene in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning. Looking back, it’s silly, but in the moment, after years of waiting, seeing Black Panther and Spider-Man finally join the Avengers made all the tedious drama worth it.Civil War is most effective as a collection of moments. Some—like Peter Parker’s debut or the fight between a brainwashed Bucky and T’Challa mid-film—felt like pure wish fulfillment in 2016. Others aren’t as memorable, but they’re better than the decade of bigger mistakes that piled up after Civil War. Even though there’s now more in the MCU to distract us, nothing hits as hard as Steve and Tony’s friendship falling apart did 10 years ago. The fact that Marvel is revisiting this past to build a new future gives Civil War a fresh, interesting perspective. It feels more important now—if not in terms of plot, then in tone. Endgame was Marvel’s boldest move, but the films leading up to it feel like the core statement of this era, and surprisingly, the MCU’s greatest work.Captain America: Civil War is streaming on Disney+. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Studiocanal(SeaPRwire) - The latest trailer for Evil Dead Burn debuted today, and it’s graphic enough that we can’t embed it here on Inverse, only link to it (you have to verify your age to watch it on YouTube). That’s thanks to a handful of shockingly gory images, including a woman losing her fingers as they’re slammed in a car door and that same woman pulling the headrest of a car seat out of her neck, as well as a dishwasher full of knives that you know are going to go into someone’s back (and maybe all the way through to their front).It also includes shots that match the setting and imagery of the film’s teaser trailer, a single unbroken take of continuous horror action that was unveiled last month.The full-length trailer also reveals an interesting deviation from the series’ formula. Although it appears that our as-yet-unnamed heroine, played by Swiss actress Souheila Yacoub, unwittingly conjures up the Deadites by reading aloud from the Necronomicon (another name for the Book of the Dead referenced in the trailer) in classic Evil Dead style, the voiceover also refers to the family’s belief that “the Devil would return” if one were to do just that. Normally, the characters in Evil Dead movies have no idea who they’re calling to or why; they just find a weird book, read aloud from it, and face the ensuing mayhem. By contrast, even if our protagonist is unaware of their schemes, the in-laws in Evil Dead Burn appear to be Satanists who believe that conjuring the Deadites is a way for “the whole family” to “be reunited,” no matter the infernal cost, after their son (and Yacoub’s husband) is tragically killed.The film’s official poster was also released today, showing Yacoub screaming as she’s grabbed by a monster while her husband’s family looks on.It doesn’t look like she’s having a good time. | StudiocanalOr maybe Yacoub’s character calls the Deadites on purpose, as a way to get back at her deceased husband’s family, either for his death or for something that happened while he was still alive? The film’s official synopsis seems to imply that this is a family conspiracy, à la the Ready or Not movies or even Ari Aster’s Hereditary, but it’s vague enough that it leaves room for surprises. The full synopsis is as follows:“EVIL DEAD BURN unleashes the franchise’s most savage and terrifying ride to date, blazing onto big screens with an all-new chapter of carnage and demonic mayhem. After the loss of her husband, a woman seeks solace with her in-laws in their secluded family home. As one by one they are transformed into Deadites—turning the gathering into a family reunion from hell—she comes to discover that the vows she took in life live on… even in death.”French director Sébastien Vaniček takes over for Lee Cronin in the seventh installment in the series, which began all the way back in 1981 with Sam Raimi’s The Evil Dead. Raimi and his longtime collaborator Rob Tapert are both credited as producers on this latest movie, part of a multi-film arc that’s already been plotted out by series creator Sam Raimi and his brother (and occasional co-writer) Ivan Raimi. Next up is 2028’s Evil Dead Wrath, written and directed by Last Stop in Yuma County breakout Francis Galluppi. By the looks of it, he’ll have a lot to do if he wants to one-up what promises to be this summer’s gnarliest horror flick.Evil Dead Burn hits theaters on July 10. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Netflix(SeaPRwire) - Once considered taboo, criticizing Stranger Things has become more acceptable now that the show's final season has concluded. The series' ending fell short in many ways, particularly due to what felt like an overly staged use of nostalgia. Stranger Things, originally a tribute to 1980s science fiction and films inspired by Amblin Entertainment and Stephen King, gradually shifted toward a grander, more "epic" tone as it progressed. In doing so, its references and nods to classic influences lost their depth and appeal. By Season 5, the nostalgia had devolved into random music placements, awkward fashion choices, and a noticeable disconnect from the actual cultural phenomena of 1989.It may have been unrealistic to expect the Duffer Brothers to fully deliver on their homage to the era, but even so, this particular form of '80s nostalgia now feels outdated. Instead, they are focusing on a new kind of celebration of the decade—one that honors the actors who began their careers in that time and places them at the center of a modern sci-fi adventure.In The Boroughs, Netflix’s newest science fiction series, the main characters would have been reaching the height of their professional lives during the 1980s. Set in the present day, the story follows several members of Generation X who move into a tranquil retirement community in New Mexico. While residents like Wally (Denis O’Hare) and Judy (Alfre Woodard) embrace their golden years with a relaxed attitude toward “drinks and drama,” Sam Cooper (Alfred Molina), recently widowed, approaches this change with deep skepticism. He is reluctant to let go of the freedom he once enjoyed—and the memories that come with it. The thought of his life nearing its end feels too soon to accept, and the strange, supernatural experiences he’s been having since arriving in the Boroughs only add to his confusion.The Boroughs bears a striking resemblance to Stranger Things—but set within a senior living facility. Sam joins forces with Wally and Judy to uncover the mysteries behind their new home, while enigmatic figures such as Renee (Geena Davis) and Jack (Bill Pullman) offer cryptic insights into a growing conspiracy. This fresh take offers something new to the genre, which has largely centered on young protagonists battling extraterrestrial threats in the 1980s.Created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, The Boroughs recognizes that the well of classic 1980s-inspired stories—like E.T., Super 8, and Stranger Things itself—is nearly dry. The Duffer Brothers serve as executive producers, suggesting a meaningful link between their work and this new project. As a result, The Boroughs is poised to function as a spiritual successor to Stranger Things, though without relying on the same kind of nostalgia that has worn thin.The Boroughs premieres on Netflix on May 21. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Marvel Studios(SeaPRwire) - Creating a multiverse-focused movie without the God of Mischief seems unthinkable now. While it might have been feasible in the past, the conclusion of Loki Season 2 makes such an omission impractical and illogical. The series provided fans with the most comprehensive understanding of Marvel’s multiverse and its intricate mechanics. Although Kang the Conqueror is no longer the central threat of the Multiverse Saga, disregarding Loki would be unwise. After all, the show’s protagonist (played by Tom Hiddleston) essentially became the multiverse itself at the end of the series, sacrificing himself to bring stability to Marvel’s countless timelines. He has since become arguably the most vital character in the franchise.Despite how impactful Loki’s ending was, it felt like a risky move for a universe that's supposed to be heading toward chaos and destruction. With Avengers: Doomsday and its follow-up Secret Wars, the multiverse will undergo both fragmentation and reconstruction, raising questions about Loki’s future in this process.Hiddleston is understandably unable to reveal much about his role in Doomsday, which marks the first time his character will reunite with the Avengers—and notably his brother Thor (Chris Hemsworth)—in seven years. However, during a recent interview with The River, the actor offered a tantalizing hint about his return, suggesting it will live up to the excitement surrounding it.Doomsday may not deliver what you expect, but that could ultimately be a positive. | Marvel Studios“Avengers: Doomsday is going to be magnificent and will defy all your expectations,” Hiddleston shared. “It surprised me when I read the script. I thought, ‘This is going to be extraordinary.’”We hope Hiddleston’s enthusiasm for the Doomsday script translates into a storyline that honors Loki’s growth. Throughout the MCU, the God of Mischief has often been dealt unfair blows, particularly within the context of the Avengers. To be fair, he initially served as one of their fiercest enemies, so some consequences may have felt deserved. Yet, as the MCU evolved and Loki continued to suffer setbacks, justifying those narrative choices grew increasingly difficult. Loki directly addressed this issue, deepening the character’s complexity and giving him a meaningful purpose. Most importantly, the series brought closure to his arc. This makes his upcoming appearance in Doomsday particularly nerve-wracking, given the history of past Avengers films undermining his development to deliver emotional punches to Thor. But considering Hiddleston’s comments about defying expectations, there’s reason to believe Doomsday will break from tradition.Loki’s conclusion in his own series was near-perfect, but nothing remains static in the MCU. Optimistically, Doomsday could surpass even the highest stakes already present, offering something bigger and more surprising than fans anticipate.Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters on December 18. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Toei Animation(SeaPRwire) - One of Netflix’s greatest strengths is its ability to platform international series that are already hits in their own country and turn them into global sensations. Take, for example, Old Enough!, the adorable hidden-camera show that follows toddlers as they run errands all by themselves. The series has long been a hit in Japan, but captured the hearts of international audiences when it was added to Netflix. Perhaps the biggest Netflix international success story is One Piece, the massively popular (and just massive) anime series that’s released over 1,100 episodes during the last 27 years. Netflix’s live-action remake has introduced a whole new group of fans to Monkey D. Luffy’s pirate adventures, and now it's making the anime itself a bit less daunting with a streamlined, stylized remake. Back in 2023, Netflix announced The One Piece, an anime remake in collaboration with Wit Studio, the animation studio behind the first three seasons of Attack on Titan. But aside from a few character sketches, we’ve heard precious little about the project ever since. That’s now changed, as Netflix has released a first-look image and revealed when fans can expect the series: February 2027, less than a year away.Our first look at Netflix’s The One Piece remake. | NetflixNetflix’s statement says the image “captures a moment in Windmill Village, where the story’s protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy, spent his childhood. The scene shows Luffy enjoying a lively time at the village bar, PARTYS BAR, alongside the visiting Red-Hair Pirates captain Shanks and first mate Benn Beckman, and the bar’s owner, Makino.” The aesthetic of this version looks completely different, with a more watercolor-influenced style and different character designs. We also learned a little about the format of this new version of One Piece. The anime’s first season will only contain seven episodes, which may be disappointing for fans who have waited years to see it. But there’s a silver lining — the seven episodes will have a combined runtime of 300 minutes, the equivalent of about 15 episodes of the original anime once you remove credits, intros, and recaps. Netflix has already remade One Piece as a live-action series. | NetflixOne Piece gained fans after the live-action series debuted, but starting the anime can be daunting. The pacing can be glacial, especially at the beginning, and the high episode count can make it feel like you’re not even making a dent. This remake will condense the first 50 chapters of the original anime into seven episodes, making it a much better starting point. Fans can get in on the ground floor and not have to worry about catching up on literal decades of backstory.So whether you’re a longtime fan excited for yet another fresh look at this timeless saga, or a new fan looking for an easier way to access the live-action’s source material, start the countdown for February. Then, it’s time to set sail. The One Piece premieres on Netflix in February 2027. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

NetEase Games(SeaPRwire) - Although the Marvel Cinematic Universe has dominated Hollywood and captivated audiences for nearly two decades, it is surprising that a game specifically based on the MCU has not been released in ten years. While James Gunn recently discussed efforts to create games within the newly revived DC cinematic universe, the last proper licensed MCU tie-in game was 2016's Lego Marvel’s Avengers. If Lego adaptations are excluded, the most recent was Iron Man 3: The Official Game three years prior, which was a mobile clone of Temple Run.However, Marvel properties outside the MCU have seen a series of acclaimed games over recent years, such as Square Enix's surprise success Guardians of the Galaxy and 2K Games' Midnight Suns. The year 2023 introduced Insomniac's hugely popular Spider-Man 2, a title that featured on numerous year-end Best Of lists and, by selling 2.5 million copies in a day, set a record as the fastest-selling PlayStation Studios game ever. Following this, NetEase Games delivered another major hit for Marvel with Marvel Rivals. This free-to-play hero shooter has now become the first title in ten years to re-engage with the MCU timeline, leading up to Avengers: Doomsday.In just two years, Marvel Rivals has become one of the most consistently played online multiplayer games. | NetEase GamesOn April 30, Marvel Rivals introduced a new game mode inspired by 2012's The Avengers. This asymmetric PvP mode pits one player controlling a powered-up Loki against a team of the MCU's original six Avengers. Loki not only gets a significant health increase but also a new playstyle drawn from his use of the Mind Stone in the film: he can turn other players against their teammates and summon variants of the Avengers from alternate universes to fight for him. This new mode is a component of a continuing update named Path to Doomsday, through which Rivals will reinterpret key scenes from the movies via gameplay styles, events, and rewards.While Rivals has regularly honored the MCU with alternate skins, this event is undoubtedly the largest film-inspired addition since launch, representing a smart concept. The live-service, ever-evolving model of Rivals perfectly mirrors what Doomsday is expected to be: both a nostalgic look back and an advance into new territory. Doctor Doom has been a looming presence in the game's original narrative, likely timed to coincide with another future in-game film crossover.Victor Von Doom is lurking in the background of the MCU and Marvel Rivals. | NetEase GamesRegarding officially licensed MCU games, Marvel (and DC, until lately) stepped back from this approach for multiple reasons. Disney-owned Marvel Games now conducts far less internal development, and licensed games impose stricter requirements on external studios—they must adhere to established canon, design characters to look like the current actors, and more. Titles like Spider-Man 2 and Rivals earn praise partly because they can apply their own distinctive interpretations to classic characters, a liberty they would lose if bound strictly to the MCU.Nevertheless, with DC Studios showing renewed interest in licensed games, the possibility exists for official Marvel tie-ins to stage a comeback, particularly if Doomsday and Secret Wars genuinely reboot the franchise creatively. In the meantime, Marvel Rivals will offer its own distinctive retrospective on two decades of MCU stories.Marvel Rivals is free-to-play on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

Universal Pictures(SeaPRwire) - Christopher Nolan redefined what a blockbuster could be with Oppenheimer. Although it was paired with Barbie as part of the Barbenheimer phenomenon, it also stands alone as a powerful example of grand-scale, epic filmmaking. The film reignited interest in large-format 70mm film, with screenings at the limited number of theaters offering this format selling out almost instantly.Nolan is now returning to his passion for cinematic scale by adapting one of literature’s most legendary epics: The Odyssey, Homer’s ancient tale of Odysseus’s ten-year journey home following the fall of Troy. Featuring an all-star cast and produced entirely in IMAX, The Odyssey aims to push the boundaries of modern filmmaking even further. The newly released trailer debuted on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, offering fans their first detailed look at what awaits on the big screen this summer. Watch the trailer below:“Tell me what you remember,” says Charlize Theron’s character Calypso to Matt Damon’s Odysseus. The trailer traces the span of his 20-year odyssey—from battles at Troy to perilous voyages across the wine-dark sea and clever escapes from life-threatening situations. While much of the narrative remains true to the original The Odyssey, a key difference emerges in how frequently the story returns to Ithaca, where Odysseus’s wife Penelope and son Telemachus have waited faithfully for decades. In traditional versions of the epic, the Ithaca storyline typically takes center stage only near the conclusion. However, this adaptation appears to give equal prominence—and possibly comparable screen time—to both Odysseus’s journey and the events unfolding back home.This trailer arrives during the final weeks of The Late Show, which will conclude later this month. The Odyssey boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as his devoted wife Penelope, Tom Holland as their son Telemachus, Robert Pattinson as Penelope’s suitor Antinous, Zendaya as the goddess Athena, Charlize Theron as the enchantress Calypso, Jon Bernthal as Spartan king Menelaus, and Benny Safdie as his brother Agamemnon.These are only the roles that have been officially confirmed so far. Additional casting includes a diverse range of talent such as Elliot Page (The Umbrella Academy), rapper Travis Scott, former NHL player Sean Avery, and beloved children’s entertainer Bill Irwin, who plays Mr. Noodle from Sesame Street.The Odyssey marks Christopher Nolan’s latest contribution to the tradition of epic blockbusters. | Niviere David/ABACAPRESS.COM/ShutterstockThe Odyssey has already sparked significant debate, particularly due to Christopher Nolan’s reliance on Emily Wilson’s contemporary translation of the ancient Greek text—a version that preserves the original meter but renders it in accessible iambic pentameter. The film’s unconventional release strategy has also drawn attention; dozens of 70mm screenings sold out more than a year before the premiere, prompting the construction of new large-format theaters. This trend echoes earlier films like Sinners, The Brutalist, and Frankenstein, all of which prioritized immersive, high-resolution viewing experiences.Regardless of its final form, The Odyssey is poised to transform how audiences experience cinema. Just as the original story has endured for millennia, this ambitious adaptation may come to define the future of cinematic storytelling.The Odyssey opens in theaters on July 17, 2026. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.