1.

Sprint

Available now on Netflix

The Olympics has us in our sports era, or so it seems. Sprint is a thrilling sports drama that delves into the world of competitive sprinting. Following a young and ambitious sprinter striving to make it to the Olympics, the film explores themes of dedication, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Sports dramas have a unique way of capturing the raw emotion and intensity of athletic competition, and Sprint. It’s the perfect show to watch before it passes the baton to the official Olympic games.

2. Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

In Theaters July 4

This film focuses on the true, inspiring tale of Possum Trot, a small community in Texas known for its extraordinary act of kindness. In an unprecedented effort, the dozens of residents from this town adopted 77 of the most hard-to-place foster children, transforming their lives and demonstrating the power of compassion and community. As executive producer Letitia Wright told RELEVANT, “It’s not just a movie — it’s a movement.” Angel Studios, the faith-based company behind the movie, believes this will be a catalyst to encourage families to step up and protect children in the foster care system.

3. Quad Gods

Available on Max July 10

Quad Gods is a high-octane reality series that follows the lives of elite quadriplegic athletes who push the boundaries of physical limitations. With gripping personal stories and intense competitive spirit, this show promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions and adrenaline. As the world is gearing up to watch the summer Olympics, this series serves as a reminder that all of us have our own inspiring stories to tell.

4.

Exploding Kittens

Available on Netflix July 12

Based on the wildly popular card game, Exploding Kittens is an animated series that brings the quirky, explosive fun of the game to life — with a theological twist. The adaptation will showcase the timeless battle between good and evil, personified by God (Tom Ellis) and Satan (Lucy Liu) who find themselves reincarnated as Earth-bound felines. But Exploding Kittens is more than a tale of two cats. It’s a commentary on the absurdity of cosmic conflicts played out in the most mundane of settings. Considering the series was developed by The Office co-creators Mike Judge and Greg Daniels’ animation company Bandera Entertainment, we fully expect more laughs and less philosophical introspection.

5. Futurama (Season 12)

Available on Hulu July 29

After a far-too-long hiatus, the iconic animated series Futurama is finally making its return. Set in the 31st century, the show follows the adventures of Fry, Leela, Bender, and the rest of the Planet Express crew as they navigate the quirks and challenges of the future. Futurama has always been a brilliant mix of sharp wit, clever satire and heartfelt moments. And with many of the original cast and creators back on board, we can expect the same level of creativity and laughs that made it a cult favorite.

1. Psalty the Singing Songbook

Most people understood from the get-go that a talking hymnal was an unusual character. But Psalty ultimately charmed all of us with his encyclopedic knowledge of hymnody that he used to soothe the fears of his youthful choir, whose parents had no problem shipping their children off on global concert tours under the care of an anthropomorphic hymnbook. According to Psalty’s throughly detailed website, he and his family (his wife, Psaltina; daughters, Melody and Harmony; and son, Rhythm — also, often accompanied by a churchmouse named Charity and a superhero salamander named Solomon) all live in Happyville, but Psalty embarks on an annual pilgrimage to a “Winter Worship Workshop in the mountains.” Because, though he’s a dedicated family man, Psalty cultivates a spirit of adventure? No wonder he was our hero.

2. John Avery Whittaker

Focus on the Family’s Adventures In Odyssey radio program largely centered around John Avery Whittaker, and his lore goes deep. He was primarily known as the kindly old owner of a local ice cream parlor, but his resume makes Dos Equis’ Most Interesting Man in the World seem about as fascinating as a styrofoam cup. Whit has been an international spy, an archeologist, an encyclopedia publisher, an inventor, a World War II signalman, a pilot, an ancient languages translator and a rogue agent. He even invented a sort of time machine in “The Imagination Station,” which at one point was even shown to be capable of whisking people into the afterlife. But did we question his background or exhilarating plans? No! Because we were too busy focused on the important life lessons he was sharing (and the ‘stache, if we’re being honest).

3. Colby the Computer

Before there were smartphones or AI, there was Colby. Colby called himself a computer back when computers were a novelty. They were large and, if you watched Colby, were talking, singing Bible trivia whizzes who wore roller skates. Yes, Colby was more of a robot than a computer, but Colby’s legions of young fans were probably more comfortable telling their parents they were hanging out with a computer than with a giant robot. Unlike Psalty, Colby’s backstory remains shrouded in mystery. Who is he? Where did he come from? What inventor gave him life, or is Colby part of the moment of singularity, in which machines become self-aware on their own accord? And, if so, did the children around him have any idea what they were dealing with?

4. Dr. Jake Cooper

Dr. Jake Cooper was the patriarch of the titular family in Frank Peretti’s Cooper Kids Adventure Series, and he was the world’s coolest dad and every helicopter parent’s mortal enemy. Picture Indiana Jones with two kids, whom he would throw into harm’s way at any opportunity. This family of archeologists globe-hopped from unspeakable terror to unspeakable terror, dealing with some truly horrifying, life-altering and childhood-scarring characters. They thwarted the apocalypse. They killed off the last of Goliath’s ancestors. They were trapped in a sunken submarine, hypnotized by poisonous slugs and offered as a sacrifice to giant snakes. A normal man might have left his children in care of a babysitter for such horrors, but Dr. Cooper figured there was no sense in babying his children through life. He brought them into the heat of every adventure he had and, in his defense, they never seemed any worse for it.

5. McGee

Like many of your childhood heroes, McGee’s true nature remains a subject of debate. The focus of the McGee and Me video series was Nick, a relatively normal boy whose adventures generally had some biblically sound moral. He and his friends braved tornadoes, snuck into horror movies and, memorably, ransacked the house of a frightening-but-friendly old Native American. The only difference between you and Nick was that you didn’t have an animated pal who would pop up, Jiminy Cricket style, to offer advice and comedic relief. However, McGee’s origin is where things get trick. Was McGee simply a product of Nick’s imagination or Nick had harnessed the power of breathing life into his drawings? Or was there something even more bizarre happening? The show never made it clear, and we’re haunted by it to this day.

6. Bibleman

Superhero comics have long held a place in the cultural zeitgeist, so it’s not surprising Christians wanted to capitalize on their own Christian superhero. Larry Boy was doing decent work in the Veggietales Cinematic Universe, but apparently that wasn’t enough for the 90s. Enter: Bibleman. Bibleman is the Christian costumed hero whose yellow laser sword appears to be at least somewhat powered by his *checks notes* Scripture memorization abilities. We’re pretty sure he’s supposed to remind us that with the Spirit and Bible on our side, we too can fight villains. But in a world of elite groups like Marvel and DC superheroes, Christians could use a bit more cool points and less on-the-nose lessons.

But just because finding movies that will suit everyone’s taste is tough doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Assuming you’ve already made it through the ranks of the Pixar classics and Disney’s better options, you might be looking for a solid option to watch with the parents. Of course, nothing with any spicy content will do — there’s nothing worse than white-knuckling it through a sex scene with your mom and dad right there. You also don’t want too much swearing or grisly violence. But you do want the movie to be good, right? Just not too good in a way that some relatives might consider “pretentious” or “artsy-fartsy.” You want it to be wholesome but not stupid.

What’s a movie-lover to do?

Never fear. We at RELEVANT have combed through the ranks of movies to find some broadly appealing options that should win over anyone on your list.

For Families With Kids

The Fantastic Mr. Fox

Wes Anderson’s first foray into claymation is both his most family friendly and one of his better efforts, uniting his unique aesthetic with a rollicking good adventure and a fully realized world with an ace cast. Those who might normally find Anderson’s whole thing just a little too such-and-such for their tastes will probably still find Roald Dahl’s classic tale irresistible.

Spirited Away 

A lot of Hayao Miyazaki’s output would fit into this list, as the Japanese master filmmaker’s wonderful ouvre rarely missed with kid or adult alike, from My Neighbor Totoro to Ponyo. Spirited Away is a wonderful adventure, a series of folklore-inspired vignettes about a young girl who gets lost in a magical dreamworld and sets about trying to rescue her parents from an evil spell with the help of some of the most fantastical characters ever committed to animation. The moments of peril might make this unsuitable for very young children, but the spectacular visuals and cunning journey will enrapture most.

Paddington and Paddington 2

There was, on paper, no reason an adaptation of Paddington Bear had to be anything more than passably amusing for kids, so why did writer/director Paul King make both of these movies legitimate contenders for any Best Of list for their respective years? Beautifully directed with warmth, wisdom and wit, if your heart is too cold to be won over by Paddington, there is simply no space for you at our table.

For Family With Older Members

First Cow

Available on Hulu, Kelly Reichardt’s lovely ode to early America is a history lesson wrapped up in a charming lesson in confident pacing. By being unhurried, it ends up being more immersive, plunging you into a tale set in the 1800s Northwest that unfurls so organically it inspires awe.

Little Women (2019)

Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of the beloved children’s book is everything we could have asked for. The scenic views of New England, the witty and sharp dialogue, the bond of love between the girls, and, of course, the impressive acting from Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Timothee Chalamet, Laura Dern— we could go on forever. Watching it with family will remind you of your love for them and your love for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The Farewell

Awkwafina churns in a performance for the ages in this beautifully bittersweet exploration of family and what saying goodbye to a loved one can look like. The dour subject matter is undercut with a thread of humor that makes the whole thing a remarkably nuanced package that will have your family laughing through the tears.

Jojo Rabbit

Not writer/director Taikia Waititi’s first or best work, but maybe the one that stretches his emotional palette the furthest. This World War II yarn made waves for its uncomfortable premise — a young German boy named Jojo and his imaginary friend Adolph Hitler try to decide what to do when they discover Jojo’s mom (Scarlett Johansson, never better) has been hiding a Jewish girl in the attic — but ultimately becomes more than its premise by virtue of its unflinching view of both the era and the human heart.

For Sports Fans

Fighting With My Family

Florence Pugh stars in this inspired-by-true-events tale of a woman who wanted to make it in pro wrestling and the family who helped her achieve her dream. You may or may not care for pro wrestling (this writer does not) but it’s hard to imagine anyone not getting up and cheering before the credits roll on this born crowd pleaser that features a turn from no less a pro wrestling legend than Dwayne Johnson himself.

42

The movie that put Chadwick Boseman on the map didn’t get enough attention upon its release but watching it now, it’s not hard to see why anyone who walked away from it didn’t know that Boseman was destined for greatness. The story of Jackie Robinson has been told before, but never with so much nuance and grace in the lead performance.

Creed

Anyone skeptical about Rocky re-entering the cultural milieu had their fears immediately put to rest by Ryan Coogler’s stunning re-working of the Rocky Balboa mythos, mining terrific performances from his central cast (Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson and, of course, Sly Stallone) and shooting the boxing matches with verve and daring so intense and immediate you might forget how to breathe while watching them.

For Music Buffs

Blinded By the Light

What cold-hearted villain doesn’t love Bruce Springsteen? Gurinder Chadha spins this irresistibly likable tale of a Pakistani teenager in London who feels adrift in life until a cassette tape of the Boss’ music captures his imagination and turns his life around. It’s not just a tale of a what makes a classic rock icon so great, it’s a poignant look at immigration.

Sing Street

A handful of Dublin teenagers in the 80s decide to channel their adolescent angst into doing what any self-respecting teenager would do: starting a band. Sing Street is almost a musical in its own right (you’re probably familiar with director John Carney’s biggest hit Once) and the music is as terrific as the story itself, which finds real pathos in the most familiar of human feelings: wanting to get away from it all.

20 Feet From Stardom

Morgan Neville’s exquisite documentary features a lot of familiar faces like Mick Jagger, Stevie Wonder, Sheryl Crowe and David Bowier, but for once, the spotlight is on their backup singers — those who take the stage “20 feet from stardom.” You’ve heard most of these women’s voices, but their stories — inspiring, heartbreaking, challenging and uplifting — add a new layer of love to countless classics.

Movies With a Message

Just Mercy

Bryan Stevenson’s well-known book about the criminal justice system doesn’t immediately scream “movie material,” but thanks to terrific direction and an a-plus cast, Just Mercy is a winner. While the book focuses on broad systemic issues in mass incarceration, the movie wisely focuses on just one story of one man who was condemned to die and the team that refused to take “no” for an answer.

Knives Out

How does director Rian Johnson follow his love-or-hate-it foray into the Star Wars universe? With one of the juiciest capers in years, a gobsmackingly fun Agatha Christie-style throwback featuring cast of delicious characters starring a wide-eyed Ana de Armas and Daniel Craig’s just ridiculously good Detective Benoit Blanc. There is not a scene in this movie that doesn’t deliver but beneath the twists and turns is a profound class parable about how we treat the least of these.

Hamilton

Hey, on the off chance you’re one of the six people in the world who didn’t catch Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Disney Plus bonanza, now’s as good a time as any to get caught up. Skepticism may abound but the American history spectacular absolutely lives up to the hype with rip-roaring numbers that’ll make citizens of all stripes proud to be an American, whatever their quibbles about the historical accuracy.

Many thanks to Judson Collier for assisting with this article.

In an interview with Premiere, Gillam shared that his next film, currently titled The Carnival at the End of Days, has a rather peculiar plot: “God decides to destroy humanity. And the only one trying to save us is Satan because he needs people in hell, otherwise he won’t have a job for eternity.”

Joining Depp and Bridges are Adam Driver and Jason Momoa in undisclosed roles.

The director added that the upcoming movie will mostly likely “be very funny for those who like to be offended.” And — no surprise here — he also shared that he’s planning on taking some creative liberties when it comes to bringing God to the big screen.

“[Bridges] won’t be the God we’re used to,” Gillam explained. “In the film, God is nature. But a nature that can speak to you … I’m going to need animation to bring it to life, because in the scene with God, there are at least 15 animals. And it’s going to be complicated, because it has to be realistic. And it’s going to be very expensive.”

Sadly, there’s no shortage of documentaries about the Church. Many highlight absurd instances, but there are a few that represent the truth of the modern church in a difficult light. It can be easy to ignore these documentaries, but it might actually be important for believers to engage with these documentaries to understand what those outside of the Church think of God’s kingdom.

Here are six documentaries that will leave you frustrated, upset, maybe even angry — but they’re all still worth the watch.

Dancing With the Devil

What it’s about: Netflix’s latest documentary, Dancing For the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult, is a three-part docuseries examining Los Angeles-based Shekinah Church and the charismatic pastor that many say abused his spiritual authority and led it like a religious cult. At the center of the story is a group of very influential TikTok dancers that joined the church and ultimately signed with the pastor’s talent management company, 7M, which ultimately was used to control every aspect of their lives.

Why you should watch it: As former members point out, the Shekinah Church of today is not what it’s always been. Many spoke of how it was a place for community, for refuge, for growth. But along the way, spiritual manipulation from its leader Robert Shinn twisted the church up and lead it down a different path. It’s not a completely uncommon story, and it’s one that believers everywhere should be on the look out for in their own leaders.

God Forbid

What it’s about: This Hulu documentary is not just a salacious story about a sex scandal. It is also a film about the power of religion and the dangers of hypocrisy. The film shows how Jerry Falwell Jr. used his position as a religious leader to justify his own behavior, and how his actions lead to major consequences for Liberty University. It also shows how the Falwell family’s fall from grace had a ripple effect on the evangelical community.

Why you should watch it: The Falwell family has had a massive impact on modern evangelicalism, and to a larger extent on American politics. The documentary explores how things came to be, and how it all imploded with Falwell’s scandal.

The Way Down

What it’s about: The HBO Max documentary looks into Remnant Fellowship Church, a Tennessee-based church led by charismatic leader Gwen  . In the 90s, Shamblin gained popularity for her diet lifestyle book, The Weigh Down. Her success “naturally” led her to starting her own church where she preached “the gospel” of self-control and losing weight. The documentary dives into the consequences of the false gospel, how well-intentioned believers can be misled by a false teachers, the secrets and abuse hidden in a church and so much more.

Why you should watch it: Many former members of the church share their experience with Shamblin and Remnant Fellowship. Through their stories, they warn others how staying connected to The Truth is the best way to steer clear of lies.

The Secrets of Hillsong

What it’s about: This Hulu documentary explores the rise and fall of Hillsong Church, one of the most popular and influential churches in the world. Over four episodes, the story chronicles the church’s meteoric growth, its celebrity following and its hidden secrets, including allegations of sexual abuse and leadership abuse. The documentary also examines the role of Hillsong founder Brian Houston, who has been accused of covering up his father’s sexual abuse.

Why you should watch it: Hillsong Church has been one of the most influential churches of the 21st century. From worship to preaching, their leaders have impacted the global church in more ways than one. If you want to understand how and why things are the way they are today, you need to check out this doc.

Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence in the House of God

What it’s about: The Catholic Church sexual abuse is, at this point, a well-documented story. There have been numerous documentaries and films about the abuse, but one of the most important is Mea Maxima Culpa, which translates to “my great fault.” This documentary explores the abuse of power in the Catholic Church through the story of four courageous deaf men, who in the first known case of public protest, set out to expose the priest who abused them.

Why it’s important: The story of uncovering Catholic Church abuse is one of the most difficult ones for the Church to face. But it’s an important part of Church history that cannot be overlooked. Additionally, this HBO documentary challenges Christians to be on the look out for those with disabilities in the Church, ensuring they are being cared for just as much as anyone else.

Keep Sweet, Pray and Obey

What it’s about: This gripping Netflix documentary delves into the world of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). Through firsthand accounts and unseen footage, it exposes the chilling control and abuse wielded by its leaders, particularly Warren Jeffs. This eye-opening series unravels the deep-seated corruption within the FLDS, shedding light on the resilience of those who escaped.

Why you should watch it: At the crux of this docuseries is a profound understanding of the dangers of unchecked power and the impact of religious extremism. The documentary offers compelling, firsthand testimonies that highlight the resilience and courage of those who escaped. Additionally, it serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance and advocacy for human rights and justice.

Shiny Happy People

What it’s about: Amazon Prime’s limited docuseries explores the hidden truths beneath the wholesome Americana surface of the reality TV mega-family and the organization they’re members of: The Institute in Basic Life Principles. Through the lives of TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting family, the Duggars, secrets begin to unravel about the family America watched and the religious organization they helped grow.

Why you should watch it: The bombshell documentary unveiled that the persona held by the Duggars on screen did not match up to the children’s actually lives. Several daughters spoke candidly about their upbringing, alongside formed IBLP members who expressed the harm they received at the hands of the organization’s leaders.

The Eyes of Tammy Faye

What it’s about: Long before Jessica Chastain put on the hair and makeup, the story of real-life televangelists Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker was told in this bombshell 2000 documentary. The film follows the “Queen of the Eyelashes” journey from her love-at-first-sight encounter with Jim, through the glory days of PTL, to the scandal that brought both their empire and their family tumbling down.

From dysfunctional family escapades to solo journeys of self-discovery, these five films offer a fresh perspective on the joys and challenges of life on the road.

(Editor’s note: Some of these films include strong language, so check the ratings!)

5. Wild (2014)

Based on Cheryl Strayed’s best-selling memoir, Wild is the story of a woman seeking redemption and self-discovery on a grueling solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail. Played by Reese Witherspoon, Cheryl Strayed’s journey is raw, unfiltered, and brutally honest. It’s about confronting your past and finding the strength to move forward.

Why it inspires: Wild is a powerful reminder of the healing power of nature and the importance of facing your demons head-on. Cheryl’s trek is not just a physical challenge but an emotional odyssey, proving that sometimes you have to lose yourself to find yourself.

Travel Takeaway: Solo travel can be transformative. There’s a unique clarity that comes from being alone in nature, allowing you to reflect and grow in ways that the everyday hustle doesn’t permit.

4. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

Ben Stiller directs and stars in this visually stunning adventure that takes the mundane and makes it extraordinary. Walter Mitty, a daydreaming photo editor at Life magazine, embarks on a real-life quest that takes him from the icy landscapes of Greenland to the rugged mountains of the Himalayas. It’s a whimsical journey of self-discovery and adventure.

Why it inspires: Walter Mitty’s transformation from a timid dreamer to a bold adventurer is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to start living the life you’ve always imagined. The film’s breathtaking scenery and imaginative storytelling make it a visual treat.

Travel Takeaway: Don’t just dream about adventure — go out and live it. The world is full of incredible places and experiences waiting to be discovered, and sometimes the biggest risk is not taking one at all.

3. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

The quintessential indie darling, Little Miss Sunshine is a chaotic blend of dark comedy and heartfelt drama. The Hoover family, a lovable band of misfits, embarks on a cross-country trek in their rickety yellow VW bus to get young Olive (Abigail Breslin) to a beauty pageant. It’s a trip full of unexpected breakdowns — both mechanical and emotional — and it’s through these mishaps that the family finds its strength.

Why it inspires: Because it reminds us that no family is perfect, and sometimes the most memorable journeys are the ones where everything goes wrong. The Hoovers teach us that perseverance and love can get you through the most ridiculous of circumstances.

Travel Takeaway: Embrace the chaos. The best road trips are those that allow for spontaneity and those beautiful, unplanned moments that become the stuff of family legend.

2. Almost Famous (2000)

Cameron Crowe’s semi-autobiographical Almost Famous is a love letter to rock ‘n’ roll and the golden age of 1970s music journalism. We follow teenage prodigy William Miller (Patrick Fugit) as he scores a dream gig: writing for Rolling Stone and touring with the fictional band Stillwater. What unfolds is a wild ride through the highs and lows of rock stardom, captured with equal parts humor and heartbreak.

Why it inspires: The film perfectly encapsulates the allure of following your passion, no matter where it takes you. William’s journey from starstruck kid to seasoned writer is a testament to the transformative power of stepping out of your comfort zone.

Travel Takeaway: Chase your dreams with reckless abandon. Sometimes, the most rewarding adventures come from diving headfirst into the unknown and living in the moment.

1. Crossroads (2002)

Yes, Britney Spears’ Crossroads is on this list, and it deserves to be. This coming-of-age flick is all about three childhood friends — Lucy (Britney Spears), Mimi (Taryn Manning) and Kit (Zoe Saldana) — who reconnect on a road trip to Los Angeles. Each character embarks on the journey with personal baggage, but together, they find closure and new beginnings.

Why it inspires: Crossroads captures the essence of youthful spontaneity and the cathartic power of the open road. It’s a reminder that sometimes, it’s the journey we take with friends that helps us find ourselves.

Travel Takeaway: Road trips are a great way to reconnect and rediscover friendships. There’s something about being trapped in a car together that forces you to confront your issues and, hopefully, come out stronger on the other side.

Whether you’re planning a cross-country trek or just dreaming of your next adventure, let these movies be your guide. Pack your bags, hit the road, and see where the journey takes you. Safe travels!

Williams is using the movie to tell everyone how God pieced his life together — literally.

“This film is about my life and how God is continuing to give me the pieces that put it together — piece by piece — and to have really amazing people along the journey in my constellation,” Williams told Variety. “To all the stars, musically, and all my teachers and everybody who has contributed to this constellation.”

To be clear, Piece By Piece is about Williams’ whole life story, not just his faith journey. The animated film chronicles his humble beginnings in Virginia to his success as one of the most respected names in pop music. LEGO versions of Kendrick Lamar, Jay Z, Justin Timberlake, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Timbaland and Busta Rhymes also appear in the movie, but there’s one character whose presence is at the center of the story: God.

“There are two new songs for the movie,” Williams said. “One is made for a specific scene. And the other one is made for a specific scene but tells the story; it’s like my thesis — [which is] that God is the greatest, that awareness, just understanding that that’s the story.”

This isn’t the first time Williams has combined his faith with music and film. Back in 2020, Williams starred in the Netflix docuseries Voices of Fire, directing a gospel choir alongside his uncle,  Bishop Ezekiel Williams. He spoke with RELEVANT about the power of faith and art, and the impact it can have on everyone in the room.

“When the wind blows, you can’t see the wind,” he told RELEVANT. “No one’s ever seen the wind ever, right? But when the wind blows across the trees and leaves, we can see its pattern. And that’s the same way we see the Spirit wash over people in the church when the church catches fire. When the Spirit just jumps out of nowhere because of a chord change or a particular part of the song, you just see it.”

We’ll see the full story come to life — well, to LEGO? — when the movie drops in theaters on October 11.

In a teaser posted on X Friday morning, Johnson announced the title along with a tentative release date.

The next Benoit Blanc mystery, the follow-up to Knives Out and Glass Onion, is called Wake Up Dead Man. pic.twitter.com/pdDXRDmwcI

— Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) May 24, 2024

“In the beginning, the knives came out,” Daniel Craig narrates in the teaser. “Then, behold, the glass was shattered. But my most dangerous case yet is about to be revealed.”

Details have not been released, but we definitively know Craig is returning as renowned Detective Benoit Blanc. One thing we know for sure is the inevitable cast will be absolutely stacked. Between the first two films, we’ve seen knockout performances from Ana De Armas, Chris Evans, Janelle Monae, Toni Collette, Dave Bautista, Edward Norton, Kate Hudson, Kathryn Hahn — you get the picture.

Following the sequel’s footsteps, the film will drop on Netflix in 2025. Despite the first film grossing $312 million at the box office, Netflix put out a limited theatrical release with Glass Onion. Let’s hope they give Wake Up Dead Man a better chance at the movies.

Known as “StreamSaver,” the bundle will be offered to all Comcast broadband, TV and mobile customers, and today the services announced it would cost just $15 a month. That is, of course, before the inevitable price raises that are sure to come.

This is the second major streaming service bundle announced this month. Last week, Disney and Warner Bros. announced a bundle combining Max, Disney+ and Hulu that would launch later this summer (pricing TBA). And a sports streaming bundle from ESPN, Warner Bros. Discovery and Fox is already in the works.

The bundles are obviously enticing to some consumers who are currently paying more and more every year for a half-dozen individual services. Since 2022, nearly every major streamer has raised their prices multiple times and introduced ad-supported plans. Many subscribers have begun to drop services because of those raising prices, leaving streamers looking for bundle options to help save on cost.

With streamers turning to a “cable 2.0 model,” customers will now get sucked into tricky bundle subscriptions where you’ll be paying for a ton of content that you never engage, but don’t want to cancel because of the bundle savings. We’re essentially talking about unregulated cable, just over the internet.

With streaming channels offering us less options, less shows — seriously, when was the last time a streamer dropped a new series with more than 10 episodes? — and more ads? How much longer before old school cable makes a full comeback?

The film will be adapted from The Life of Our Lord, a little-known Charles Dickens short story that depicted the life and times of Jesus. The story follows the Dickens family — Charles (voiced by Kenneth Branagh), wife Catherine (Uma Thurman) and son Walter (Jojo Rabbit star Roman Griffin Davis) — as they vividly imagine the life of Jesus, his well-known trials and tribulations, and the notable people in his life.

Isaac has been tapped to voice Jesus, while Academy Award-winner Forest Whitaker will voice the apostle Peter.

Producer Anfernee Kim told The Hollywood Reporter that he hoped the film would allow audiences to easily relate to the Bible’s stories and viewers of all ages could engage with Jesus’ story in an exciting way.

“A film capturing the epic life of Jesus Christ warrants a stellar cast, and our actors announced to date – Oscar Isaac, Forest Whitaker, Kenneth Branagh, Uma Thurman and Roman Griffin Davis – is impressive by any measure,” Kim added. “Oscar perfectly captures the impactful delivery of Jesus, and Forest’s expertly embodies the complicated aspects of Peter.”

Hollywood seems to be interested in telling the life of Jesus a lot lately. From Andrew Garfield potentially starring in Martin Scorsese’s upcoming Jesus film, to a bizarre, horror story about Jesus’ childhood — featuring Nicolas Cage as his father, Joseph — to the hugely successful series The Chosen, it appears that there’s never been a better time to watch Jesus’ life on the big screen.

While the film itself didn’t prove to be all that memorable or unique overall, it did get me thinking about how effective animated films can be in teaching complicated lessons. We especially see this in a lot of the recent computer-animated films made by Disney and Pixar (not to discount the wealth of fantastic movies made by other studios like DreamWorks, Studio Ghibli and Laika). The wide appeal of movies from the Mouse and the Lamp seems to be most helpful when it comes to legitimizing animation as an art form people of all ages can find instructive.

It was Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, after all, that demanded a more sophisticated audience back in 1938. As the first feature-length animated film, Snow White was not only a runaway hit at the box office, but also delivered an evocative emotional climax, when Snow White presumably dies and is mourned by the dwarves.

At the time, it was unheard of for both adults and kids to have that reaction, but now we can point to dozens of other hand-drawn and computer-animated films as further evidence of this dynamic. These movies teach us, and their lessons are specifically tied to the art of animation.

1. Have Empathy

Pixar has cultivated a reputation for getting audiences to invest their emotions in anything. That includes monsters in your closet, insects, a glorified Roomba, kitchen rats and even, well, emotions. But it all started with toys, and in Toy Story, you can see how effective animation can be at teaching children (and adults) to have more empathy for something as simple as a plaything.

The writers of Toy Story faced the tough challenge of making adults care about the goals and motivations of inanimate objects, and part of the reason they found success was because the writers understood the nostalgic connection adults have with their childhood toys could transfer to a timeless, believable animated world. Going further, the story they told contains simple, yet deep lessons about rivals settling their differences and the anxiety over feeling replaced, a discomfort almost all adults can find relatable.

It makes sense that animated films are wonderful at communicating empathy. They contain artificial, hyper-detailed worlds that rely quite a bit on sharp writing to help you personally invest in the lives of characters who don’t look like you or operate by rules you more readily recognize.

2. Things (And People) Aren’t Always What They Seem

Going back to Snow White, it’s important to remember that before animated movies, animated shorts were known for being bursts of slapstick fun. The general public at the time didn’t even entertain the notion of an animated film that can make you cry.

But Walt Disney risked his livelihood to prove that notion wrong. He was a complicated man, especially in those years, but he had a respectable vision for a day when animated films could be appreciated by just about everyone. For Walt, animated films were more than they seemed, and they weren’t only for kids. Their vibrant colors and quick editing were just the surface to him. Beneath that veil could be new stories told in new ways.

A great recent example of this lesson can be found in Zootopia, which explores the racial politics of an invented society where predators and prey live in relative peace alongside one another. But there’s still prejudice between the two groups, because to the prey members of Zootopia, predators can only be viewed as bullies and enemies. Nick Wilde, a fox and one of our main characters, is shown to have been abused as a child for being written off as a mean-spirited bad guy (Wreck-It Ralph and Shrek also use this type of messaging to great effect).

By contrast, live-action films have to work much harder at using symbolism like this because the filmmakers don’t have as much fine-tuned control over the look and feel of their settings when compared to animation, let alone a live-action movie’s design and acting expression. The result—in the better animated films, anyway—is a more perfectly communicated vision from the writing to the production to release.

3. Be Yourself & More

We’ve all noticed these ideas in films and TV shows that are specifically made for kids: Be yourself! Listen to your heart! And so on. But there’s usually more to these messages than a basic “do what feels good” mentality, especially in the most recent Pixar and Disney films.

Those movies recognize that on the one hand, it’s useful to know yourself and be comfortable in your own skin. But also, there’s nothing wrong with empowerment that pushes you to be better than you are now. Like being a hero, even. This is actually a complicated, nuanced lesson that animated films in particular are excellent at communicating because they’re accessible for viewers with short attention spans. The action can be more fluid, the timing of every scene can be uber-precise, and generally speaking, kids love colorful, imaginative worlds to explore and revisit.

For example, Frodo in the live-action Lord of the Rings has to accomplish an uncertain goal, but the key to his success is staying true to who he is and taking inspiration from his friends. A kid can certainly watch and enjoy Lord of the Rings for what it is, but we don’t often see a lot of children rewatching these long, epic films enough to fully grasp all of their subtext.

Compare that to the animated Disney film Moana, which teaches the same lesson as Lord of the Rings, but does so in a tighter kid-friendly format without insulting the intelligence of adults. A younger viewer might get confused and lost in the spectacle of Lord of the Rings, but they can have a great time watching Moana, Coco or The Incredibles, which contain similar messages told in a generally more suitable execution for their age group.

As long as animated films keep coming out, viewers big and small are going to learn something from them. So it’s always useful to celebrate the films that take this responsibility seriously and push the art form further along. Nearly a century ago, an animated film receiving an Oscar nomination seemed impossible. That has slowly changed, and we can now see a future where kids who grew up with the more mature animated films of Disney and Pixar will eventually become adults informed by a whole generation of smart storytelling.

Warner Bros. has announced that it will release a new live-action Lord of the Rings film in 2026, focusing on Gollum.

Original Lord of the Rings trilogy filmmaker Peter Jackson will team up again with his partners Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens to produce the film, which is still in the early stages of script development. Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav shared that the new film will “explore storylines yet to be told.”

For now, we know the film, tentatively named Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, will bring back Andy Serkis for the titular role. He will also serve as the film’s director.

“Yesssss, Precious,” Serkis said of the announcement. “The time has come once more to venture into the unknown with my dear friends, the extraordinary and incomparable guardians of Middle-earth, Peter, Fran and Philippa.”

But Lord of the Rings fans won’t have to wait too long for new content. The second season of Amazon Prime Video’s Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is scheduled to drop later this fall. Then, on Dec. 13, Warner Bros. will release an animated Middle-earth movie, The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim, which follows events set 200 years before The Hobbit.

The partnership comprises a multi-year and multi-picture first-look deal between Tyler Perry Studios and Franklin.

“Tyler and I have been great friends for over 15 years, so when he called me to team up on movies that can uplift the human spirit, I jumped at the chance and we couldn’t have a better partner than Netflix to help us inspire the world,” Franklin said.

This deal expands Perry and Netflix’s current creative partnership, where Perry writes, directs and produces movies and TV series for the streaming giant.

“I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects,” Perry said. “I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder every day, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good. And there’s no better place than Netflix.”

The first film set for release is R&B, a modern-day retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz. Set in Tennessee, the story follows a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an elderly widowed woman and ends up meeting a man who turns out to be the love of her life.

The film’s director, Lotfy Nathan, is pulling inspiration for the story from the apocryphal Gospel of Thomas, which includes stories of Jesus’ youth. The Carpenter’s Son is choosing to explore this often-overlooked part of Jesus’ life through a horror lens.

According to the film’s synopsis, “The Carpenter’s Son tells the dark story of a family hiding out in Roman Egypt. The son, known only as ‘the Boy’, is driven to doubt by another mysterious child and rebels against his guardian, the Carpenter, revealing inherent powers and a fate beyond his comprehension. As he exercises his own power, the Boy and his family become the target of horrors, natural and divine.”

Cage has been cast as “the Carpenter,” alongside Twigs (Honey Boy) as “the mother” and Noah Jupe (A Quiet Place) as “the Boy.”

Which begs the question: was no one else available? If a white person is going to be cast, is Andrew Garfield too busy? Did Chris Evans not pick up the phone? Has Hollywood truly lost the plot so much that Nicolas Cage is the only viable option for Jesus’ dad?

If that sounds like something you’re looking for, check out these five options — all available to stream on Netflix:

What We Leave Behind

Julián Moreno is the focus of What We Leave Behind, a poetic exploration on family, tradition, immigration, and life and death. Filmmaker Iliana Sosa interviewed her grandfather, who took time every month for nearly 20 years to take a bus for the 560-mile trip from his home in Mexico to visit his daughters and grandchildren in El Paso, Texas. The story weaves through loss, hope and sacrifice, reminding us that everything we gain can often come at a cost.

Cooked

Amid today’s dietary climate of fad diets and special restrictions, it feels revelatory to experience a documentary series that comes to the defense of food, plain and simple. Food writer Michael Pollan explores the origins of man’s most basic culinary staples—grain, roasted meat, gathered vegetables—and advocates for cooking that preserves an integrity for the planet and a sense of joy in the body. In these mini-movies, food connects us to the Earth in a literal way, and it compels you to think of your relationship with food as something harmonious, serving and cooperative, rather than dependent and abusive.

13th

In this 2016 American documentary by director Ava DuVernay, we explore the intersection of race, justice and mass incarceration in the United States. Titled after the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which freed the enslaved and prohibited slavery (unless as punishment for a crime), DuVernay focuses on the fact that the nation’s prisons are disproportionately filled with black people.

A Plastic Ocean

A Plastic Ocean begins when journalist Craig Leeson, searching for the elusive blue whale, discovers plastic waste in what should be pristine ocean. In this documentary, Craig teams up with a free diver, Tanya Streeter, along with an international team of scientists and researchers. Together, they travel to 20 locations across the world over four years to explore the fragile state of our oceans, uncover alarming truths about pollution and reveal solutions that can be put into immediate effect.

Okja

Here’s the elevator pitch for Okja: A young girl has this pet, which is sort of a pig/cow/hippo hybrid, but it’s going to be experimented on by this giant corporation to use as livestock, so she has to save it. OK, it’s not the most accessible thing at a glance, but Okja is packed with things to say about animal rights, capitalism, monopolization and even refugee crises. It’s all wrapped up in a fun, feel-good package that will move you to love a giant pig-hippo-cow, and maybe make some changes after the credits roll.

According to Variety, the director is considering Garfield for a role in his adaptation of Shūsaku Endō’s A Life of Jesus. It’s unclear whether Garfield would play Jesus himself, one of his disciples or a different character entirely.

The last time Garfield and Scorsese teamed up for an Endō adaptation was in 2016 for Silence. Garfield said he prepared for the role of a Jesuit priest by studying the Bible and meeting with priests to understand the life of Christ.

“What was really easy was falling in love with this person, was falling in love with Jesus Christ,” Garfield said. “That was the most surprising thing … That was the most remarkable thing—falling in love, and how easy it was to fall in love with Jesus.”

Sounds like he’s prepped and ready for whatever role Scorsese has for him. The director also said Miles Teller is in the running for the titular role. We should know who wins out soon, as production is scheduled to begin later this year.

Of course, that’s assuming Scorsese has figured out how to bring Jesus’ story to the big screen at all. Back in February, he said he was still figuring out some major details.

“I’m contemplating it right now,” the director said at the Berlin Film Festival. “What kind of film I’m not quite sure, but I want to make something unique and different that could be thought-provoking, and I hope also entertaining. I’m not quite sure yet how to go about it.”

He also shared that he wants to focus on Jesus’ core teachings in a way that “explores the principles but doesn’t proselytize.”

The film will adapt The Chris Farley Show: A Biography in Three Acts, which was written by Farley’s brother Tim.

Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber (The Disaster Artist, 500 Days of Summer) will adapt the film’s screenplay, with Josh Gad set to direct.

Farley grew to fame in the ‘90s as a cast member on Saturday Night Live. He appeared on the show for five seasons and starred in major comedies like Tommy Boy and Black Sheep. Sadly, Farley died of a drug overdose at the age of 33 in 1997.

Hauser is known for his roles in I, Tonya and Richard Jewell, and recently won a Primetime Emmy for his role as serial killer Larry Hall in Black Bird. During the filming of Black Bird, Hauser experienced a transformation that restored his life and his family, which he recently spoke about on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.

Hauser and his wife, Amy, also opened up about their story in a four-part I Am Second video series. After Hauser and his wife Amy filed for divorce while pregnant with their first child, Hauser began abusing alcohol while struggling with suicidal ideation before finding his faith in Christ. The Hausers said they wanted to share their story as a reminder that “no matter how far you run, Jesus is always coming after you, and you are never too far gone.”

Last summer, we asked the bot to come up with 10 new Christian movies, including a title, a brief plot and even some potential actors or actresses. While none of those pitches have been accepted by Hollywood — yet — we wanted to give AI another shot at coming up with some, um, interesting pitches.

10. Heavenly Heist

A down-on-their-luck church congregation, facing foreclosure, decides to rob a casino in a last-ditch effort to save their beloved place of worship. Hilarity ensues as they attempt to pull off the ultimate heist while staying true to their faith. Cast: Seth Rogan as the desperate pastor and Amy Poehler as the mastermind behind the plan.

9. Divine Doppelgänger

A stressed-out pastor discovers he has a doppelgänger who happens to be a famous rock star. When the rock star gets amnesia, the pastor must step into his shoes, leading to a series of hilarious mix-ups and mistaken identities. Cast: Will Ferrell in a dual role as the pastor and the rock star, and Andy Samberg as the pastor’s loyal but clueless assistant.

8. Saints and Sensibility

In this Jane Austen-inspired comedy, a sheltered young woman navigates the pitfalls of 19th-century courtship while trying to stay true to her Christian values. Cast: Saoirse Ronan as the spirited heroine and Tom Holland as the charming but mischievous gentleman who tests her faith.

7. Divine Detox

A group of church members embarks on a spiritual retreat to detox from their addiction to social media and technology. As they struggle with withdrawal symptoms and cabin fever, they rediscover the beauty of nature and the joy of real-life connections. Cast: Emma Watson as the tech-addicted protagonist and John Krasinski as the retreat leader with a knack for outdoor survival.

6. Heavenly Harmony: Battle of the Choirs

When two rival church choirs are accidentally double-booked for a prestigious singing competition, they must put aside their differences and join forces to win the grand prize. Cast: Anna Kendrick as the determined choir director and Jamie Foxx as the smooth-talking host of the competition.

5. The Miracle Matchmaker

An awkward but well-meaning church secretary discovers she has the ability to inadvertently play matchmaker, leading to a series of comical and heartwarming romantic entanglements within her congregation. Cast: Melissa McCarthy as the lovably clumsy matchmaker and Steve Carell as the befuddled pastor trying to keep up with the chaos.

4. Divine Disappearance

A diverse group of strangers find themselves left behind after the Rapture. As they navigate the chaos and confusion of a world without explanation, they must confront their beliefs, fears, and relationships while searching for answers amidst the signs of the end times. Cast: Jennifer Lawrence as the skeptical journalist, Kevin Sorbo as the conflicted pastor questioning his faith, and Viola Davis as the no-nonsense survivor leading the group through the tribulations.

3. Divine Desserts

When a struggling bakery owner receives a divine intervention, she discovers that her desserts have the power to change lives. As word spreads about her miraculous treats, the bakery becomes a gathering place for the community, where faith, friendship, and frosting collide. Cast: Jennifer Lawrence as the reluctant baker and Paul Rudd as the skeptical food critic turned believer.

2. Mission: Impropable

A group of amateur sleuths mistakenly believes they’ve been called to be missionaries in a foreign country. Hilarity ensues as they attempt to spread the gospel while bumbling their way through cultural misunderstandings and comedic misadventures. Cast: Nicolas Cage as the enthusiastic leader and Awkwafina as the street-smart local who teaches them the true meaning of mission work.

1. Heavenly High School Musical

In this musical comedy, a group of high school students puts on a Christian-themed musical to save their school’s drama program from being cut. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, faith, and the transformative power of song and dance. Cast: Zendaya as the talented but shy lead actress and Noah Centineo as the charming jock who discovers his love for theater.

So there you have it Hollywood! Take your pick.

“I’m a Christian quite simply because of what Jesus calls us to do: Love other people until death,” he said. “It doesn’t mean we’re all to be hung on a cross, but how can I suffer for you? That is a beautiful thing.”

Ritchson hasn’t been hiding his faith by any means. He’s active on InstaChurch, his YouTube channel where he posts videos exploring the Bible and how it relates to daily life and his work. He started the channel two years ago as a way to combat the rhetoric he saw from other Christians that frustrated him, particularly when it comes to politics.

“Christians today have become the most vitriolic tribe,” he said. “It is so antithetical to what Jesus was calling us to be and to do.”

He also shared that he’s been upset with Christians who have so closely aligned themselves with former President Donald Trump.

“Trump is a rapist and a con man, and yet the entire Christian Church seems to be treat him like he’s their poster child and it’s unreal,” he said. “I don’t understand it.”

He’s not too happy with the Catholic Church, which he was raised in, either.

“It’s worth saying that the atrocities that are happening in the Church that are being actively covered up, even to this day with people not being held accountable, is repulsive,” he said. “I can’t for one second support the Catholic Church while there are still cardinals, bishops and priests being passed around with known pedophilic tendencies.”

Ritchson was heavily involved in church activities at a young age. He attended daily mass, was an altar boy and even served as the president of his youth group.

As he grew older, however, he faded away from his faith while pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. After a series of setbacks, mixed with years of sexual abuse he endured on a variety of sets, Ritchson reached a breaking point at 36 and attempted to take his life. He was able to stop himself from fully going through with it, but afterwards, he began seeking help and contemplating what he wanted his life to look like moving forward. Ultimately, he found that answer by turning to God.

“I came out of that whole thing asking myself, ‘OK, if I am going to choose to be alive here — a decision we all make, some to a greater degree than others — what am I doing? Why am I here?’” he said. “What I kept falling back on was the meaning and purpose of life as someone who believes that there is a creator and we are created beings, our purpose in life is, without qualification, to make the world a better place and serve others. That is what life is all about.”

Since then, Ritchson has been outspoken on his faith, both through personal channels like InstaChurch and being selective about the roles he takes. Earlier this year, he starred opposite Hilary Swank in the faith-based film Ordinary Angels. He’s hoping Hollywood executives take notice of the growing market for Christian movies and that people are hungry for stories that promote positive messages.

Let There Be Light highlights victims’ stories, including those of worship leaders Matt and Beth Redman. The film is a response to the Soul Survivor abuse investigation that was revealed last year. Soul Survivor was a Christian evangelical charismatic youth movement in the UK founded by Pilavachi in 1993. It held annual UK summer festivals, gathering up to 30,000 young people each year. Soul Survivor also held regular international events in countries such as Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Africa and the Netherlands.

Last year, the Church of England began investigating claims made by victims of emotional, physical and spiritual harm caused by Pilavachi. The investigation uncovered a pattern of “coercive control” as well as inappropriate physical contact instigated by him, including wrestling teenage boys and massaging young male interns in private.

The Redmans shared that they had received hundreds of messages of survivors asking for support, and decided they needed to share their own story through this documentary with the help of experts in this field.

“This is a story that needed to be told,” Matt said. “Close to 150 people spoke to the initial investigation into Mike Pilavachi’s conduct and that report substantiated claims of physical, psychological and spiritual abuse. For me, this is also a personal story. From the age of 13, I experienced that mistreatment firsthand — and it still affects me to this day. But we didn’t make this documentary to cast stones. Instead, we want to bring light and hope to the situation, as well as to help the Church learn from what we and others have experienced.”

In July 2023, Matt shared for the first time that he had been abused by Pilavachi at age 19 while at a Soul Survivor festival. He and his wife Beth had shared their own experiences of mistreatment, but were “ignored, patronized or gaslit by the leadership at Soul Survivor.” In the documentary, they call out the lack of care for victims and stressed the importance of accountability within the Church.

“We hope this film conveys just how much we love and believe in the body of Christ,” Beth said. “Our prayer is for the healing of yesterday’s wounds — and a brighter, safer Church for tomorrow.”

The film shows how certain cultures can allow abuse to become widespread, the long-term psychological damage victims often suffer, as well as ways the global Church can prevent abuse from happening in the future. The documentary also calls for higher standards of transparency and justice within the Church. 

Let There Be Light is available to watch for free on YouTube:

Plenty of movies have tried to reinvent themselves into TV series (anyone remember MTV’s Teen Wolf?), but thankfully some have found more success than others. And in some cases, the series turned out to be even better than the original movie.

Here are a few worth viewing:

Fargo

Noah Hawley’s television adaptation of the Coen Brothers’ iconic film Fargo stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of its source material. While the film offered a brief but unforgettable glimpse into the quirky and often darkly humorous world of Minnesota crime, the TV series takes this premise and runs with it, crafting an anthology format that allows for fresh stories and characters in each season. What makes Fargo worth the watch is its ability to capture the essence of the film while expanding its universe in unexpected and compelling ways. Each season brings a new cast of characters, and the latest season, starring Jon Hamm and Juno Temple, is one of the best examples as to why this adaptation is one to watch.

Westworld

Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy’s ambitious reimagining of Michael Crichton’s Westworld took the core premise of the original film and transformed it beyond anyone’s imagination. While the film introduced audiences to the concept of a futuristic theme park populated by lifelike androids, the TV series dove deeper by exploring themes of artificial intelligence, morality and the nature of consciousness, all while weaving a complex narrative that unfolds across multiple timelines and perspectives. It also helps that the series had a stunning cast that included  the likes of Evan Rachel Wood, Jeffrey Wright and Anthony Hopkins. Sadly the series was cancelled too soon, but it’s always worth a rewatch. (Fair warning, it is an HBO show, meaning you will want to check content warnings before diving in.)

Friday Night Lights

While the Friday Night Lights film was a great depiction of the heart and soul of small-town Texas’ obsession with high school football, the television series had one of the most memorable phrases of all time: “Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose.” It’s a simple line, but it’s one of the few elements that separates the series from the movie. The show expanded into the relationships and challenges faced by its diverse cast of characters, notably one of the best TV couples of all time, Coach and Tammy Taylor. While the show hasn’t necessarily held up as well 20 years later, its storylines about community, identity and the pursuit of excellence remain as relevant as ever.

Parenthood

Ron Howard’s 1989 Parenthood film struck a chord with audiences by offering an authentic and relatable portrayal of family life. Then, the 2010 TV adaptation came along and it took everything to a whole new level. The series expanded on the entire Braverman clan, from the parents juggling the demands of career and family to the siblings navigating the complexities of adulthood. What made the TV series so beloved was its ability to capture the messy, heartfelt and sometimes chaotic nature of familial relationships without resorting to clichés or melodrama — something more TV shows should keep in mind.

Andor

This one is a bit of a stretch, so hear us out. The Star Wars franchise has had a mixed history with its movies, resulting in lots of online discourse about the quality of the series. But Disney+’s recent expansion into creating compelling TV series in and around the Star Wars universe is an excellent case for TV adaptations. Perhaps the best example is Andor, which explores Cassian Andor’s (Diego Luna) adventures as a Rebel spy before the events of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Each new Star Wars series keeps getting better and better, meaning the franchise is hopefully going to keep making excellent adaptations.

1. Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids’ TV

Available on Max

Investigation Discovery’s jaw-dropping documentary uncovers the sinister side of Nickelodeon Studios. Once known as the peak of children’s television, dozens of former child stars and crew members speak out in this interview about the mistreatment they experienced on set. From the kids’ discomfort participating in approriate jokes to mistreatment from executive producer to Dan Schneider to multiple instances of child sex abuse, the documentary exposes how the entertainment industry has left young actors particularly vulnerable. The documentary premiered in March, but a new episode will drop on Monday on Max.

2. The Economics of Happiness

Available on YouTube

3. The Octopus Teacher

Available on Netflix

The Octopus Teacher explores the remarkable relationship between a filmmaker and an octopus living in a kelp forest off the coast of South Africa. The film documents the filmmaker’s journey as they observe and document the octopus’ intricate hunting and problem-solving skills, as well as its ability to use tools. This captivating and intimate look at the octopus provides new insights into the intelligence and complex behavior of these mysterious sea creatures, challenging the notion that they are just mindless predators.

4. The Future of Work and Death

Available on Amazon Prime

This thought-provoking documentary examines the rapidly changing landscape of work and mortality in the 21st century. With technological advancements disrupting traditional job markets and extending human lifespans, this film asks important questions about the future of work, the meaning of life, and what it means to be human. Through interviews with experts and thought leaders, the documentary explores the impact of automation and artificial intelligence on employment, the ethical implications of life extension, and the importance of finding purpose in a world where work and death are being redefined. Whether you’re an optimist or a skeptic, The Future of Work and Death offers a sobering look at the potential consequences of our current trajectory and the choices we must make as a society.

5. A Beautiful Planet

Available on Apple TV+

This 2016 film explores planet Earth from a view never seen before. Like similar projects, the imagery is breathtaking. But there’s something entirely unique about it—A Beautiful Planet views Earth not from South American rain forests or East Asian mountain ranges—but from the International Space Station. From space. It’s impossible to see the beauty and intricacy and not come away with a greater sense of awe for God’s creation and respect for His creativity.

Plus, the picture is narrated by Jennifer Lawrence, which is just cool.

6. The Dark Matter of Love

7. Good Night Oppy

Available on Amazon Prime

Talk about a story of resilience. Good Night Oppy charts the remarkable true story of Opportunity, a NASA exploration rover that was sent to Mars for a 90-day mission but ended up surviving for 15 years. While Oppy may only be a robot, it does remind us to never give up hope, especially when facing a challenge that feels out-of-this-world.

8. What We Leave Behind

Available on Netflix

Julián Moreno is the focus of What We Leave Behind, a poetic exploration on family, tradition, immigration, and life and death. Filmmaker Iliana Sosa interviewed her grandfather, who took time every month for nearly 20 years to take a bus for the 560-mile trip from his home in Mexico to visit his daughters and grandchildren in El Paso, Texas. The story weaves through loss, hope and sacrifice, reminding us that everything we gain can often come at a cost.

9. Endangered

Available on Max

In a time when “fake news” is a common phrase, it can be hard for many to recognize the dangerous work journalists actually do. Endangered peels back the veil on the fourth estate, showing audiences just how difficult it can be to discover the truth. It’s a reminder that what goes on in a newsroom isn’t always the full picture.

10. The Waiting Room

Available on Hulu

It’s all too easy to boil the idea of health care to a series of bills or politics. But director Peter Nicks strives to put a face to the U.S. crisis with his 2012 film, The Waiting Room. Shot over five months, viewers are invited to simply watch an average day at Highland Hospital in Oakland, California—where most of the patients are uninsured. With a story assist through a confessional both placed in the waiting room, rather than an omniscient narrator, we hear the story directly from those affected the most. (Fans of This American Life, you’re going to dig this one.) It’s stark reminder that compassion shouldn’t come with a price tag.

Drew Goddard, whose previous work includes The Martian and World War Z, has been tapped to write and direct a new Matrix feature, one that will expand the franchise’s universe into new stories and adventures.

“Drew came to Warner Bros. with a new idea that we all believe would be an incredible way to continue the Matrix world, by both honoring what Lana and Lilly Wachowski began over 25 years ago and offering a unique perspective based on his own love of the series and characters,” said Warner Bros. Motion Pictures president of production Jesse Ehrman in a statement. “The entire team at Warner Bros. Discovery is thrilled for Drew to be making his new Matrix film, adding his vision to the cinematic canon the Wachowskis’ spent a quarter of a century building here at the studio.”

The reboot will be the first Matrix film that doesn’t directly involve the Wachowskis, the series’ original creators. However, Warner Bros. announced Lana will serve as an executive producer on the new installment.

Before you get worried that the new film will veer into something unrecognizable, you should know that Goddard has the credit to do a decent job carrying on the franchise’s legacy. He began his career in the ’90s writing on shows like Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Angel, Alias and Lost. He also created Netflix’s Marvel show Daredevil and was an exec producer on The Good Place. Both shows wove in religious themes into the plotlines in seamless ways, which bodes well for Goddard’s Matrix installment.

The original Matrix was a huge phenomenon, especially within the Christian world. If you’ve attended a church service over the last 25 years, there’s a high chance the pastor used a scene from The Matrix as a sermon illustration. That’s not a huge surprise, considering an author who claims her work inspired the franchise said that she was initially inspired by the Bible.

Details are being kept under wraps, but here’s hoping we get to see Keanu Reeves return to this iconic role more time.

Some PKs go on to become pastors themselves. Some hightail it out of the Church as fast as possible. And some of them go on to be extremely famous entertainers. Here are a few stars that you probably didn’t know came from ministry families:

1. John Boyega

The Star Wars star is fairly private when it comes to his family, but he has shared that his father was a Pentecostal minister who has had a major impact on his faith and career. “The skill and ability that I’ve received has been from your prayers, and I cannot ignore what God has used my parents to do in my life,” Boyega wrote in an Instagram post about his parents.

2. Hunter Schafer

In a new interview with GQ, the Euphoria actress reveals that both her parents are church leaders in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her father, Mac, is the lead pastor at Hudson Memorial Presbyterian Church, and her mother, Katy, is the director of children & family ministries at First Presbyterian Church.

3. Marcus Mumford

Before Marcus Mumford teamed up with his Sons, he grew up as a PK to John and Eleanor Mumford, who were international leaders of the Vineyard Church. In 1987, the couple established the first British Vineyard church in South West London and led the church until 2015. In a 2022 interview, Mumford shared that watching his parents lead a church shaped the way he led Mumford & Sons.

“I was watching my folks at the center of attention and, I think, dealing with that really well,” he said. “But it did provide some element of training for what I chose to do.”

4. Katy Perry

You may know that Katy Perry got her start in a church choir, but she’s not the only one who started their fame journey from the pulpit. Perry’s parents, Keith and Mary Hudson, served as traveling preachers and speakers for a few years while their daughter was gaining notoriety.

5. Adam Driver

The Star Wars actor was raised by his mother and stepfather, who was a Baptist pastor in Indiana. Driver grew up in the church, and even credits his time in the church choir as his first step into the entertainment world.

6. Kelis

The “Milkshake” singer grew up with a Pentecostal minister for a father, but he was also a musician and professor who helped Kelis develop her career.

7. Phil Jackson

Regarded as one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time, Phil Jackson was known off the court for his New Age philosophy. That’s a stark contrast to his upbringing, where he was raised by two Assemblies of God preachers who assumed he’d one day become a minister.

8. The Jonas Brothers

Nick, Joe and Kevin grew up as PKs in New Jersey. Their father, Kevin Sr., began his ministry as a singer with Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas before becoming the senior pastor of a church in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Honorable mention: Frankie Jonas, the “bonus Jonas” and co-host of reality competition series Claim to Fame.

But the Jonases aren’t the only PK siblings who grew up to be musicians…

9. Kings of Leon

Kings of Leon’s Caleb, Nathan and Jared Followill grew up with a father who was a United Pentecostal Church preacher. The boys first developed their love of music by playing in church bands before their dad spoke from the pulpit.

10. Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington’s father served as a Pentecostal pastor in New York. Washington attended church for the first 14 years of his life before his parents’ divorce and he lost touch with his dad.

“I’m trying to prepare my church right now for the backlash, OK?” Todd told Transformation this week. “We’re making a real movie. Not the Christian, like, ‘I’m going after the lost.’ I want them to be watching rom-coms and find Relationship Goals, and I want it to be real to them where they’re at.

“It’s baked,” he continued. “You can’t clean a fish you ain’t caught. So I’m not making this movie for church people….I’m not making Relationship Goals the movie for you. I want to cast it into the sea where people never come to this church.”

Inspired by his sermon series of the same name, Todd’s book — which he describes as a “guide to finding lasting love and sustaining a healthy relationship” — spent 13 weeks on the New York Times bestsellers’ list. In late 2021, it caught the eye of Breakthrough and Miracles From Heaven producer DeVon Franklin, who announced that he and his team were turning the book into a movie for Amazon. Todd said filming will start this summer.

“They just called me this week and told me they’re starting filming on Relationship Goals the movie in June,” Todd said. “I can’t play with y’all. I’m talking about Amazon is making the movie right now. …The reason they called me is because I told them at the beginning, I said, ‘number one, I want to make a movie movie.’

“But one of the stipulations is that we would be a part of the movie,” he continued. “It wouldn’t be based on the book. So they’re going to come here and shoot scenes at Transformation Church with all the people. Now, I’m telling you all that so y’all don’t act wild. I’m telling you now, months in advance, because there are going to be people — like real actors, like if I start naming them, you’ll be like, yes, it’s a real movie movie.”

Many movies depict the main character’s journey through a quarterlife crisis. Protagonists are often forced to reject their metamorphosis or accept the banalities of adulthood.

Here are some of the best of the “quarterlife crisis” films, a sub-genre often consisting of wandering male leads, pressures from friends and family and absolutely killer soundtracks. (Fair warning: Some of these get a little raunchy, but they’re ultimately redemptive).

Watch and know that whatever form your crisis takes, you’re not alone.

Garden State (2004)

The quintessential quarter life crisis film of the 2000s, Zach Braff starred in and directed this semi-autobiographical journey of a struggling actor’s return to his hometown after the death of his mother. He must face his hometown, clean up the the cobwebs of his past and attempt to glean what wisdom and experience he can to propel him forward.

Streaming on Hulu

Taxi Driver (1976)

With little backstory, we are quickly introduced to our twentysomething anti-hero, Travis Bickle, who’s struggling to find his place in society. He relegates himself to the dark streets of NY, absorbing the underbelly of society and ultimately taking on the role of a self-appointed cultural savior through redemptive violence. He goes through a with a misguided personal journey that leads to uh, well … a bloody, bloody end.

Streaming on the Roku Channel

Bridesmaids (2011)

Building on the “Will it ever happen to me?/Always a bridesmaid, never a bride” idioms, Bridesmaids features Kristen Wiig at her post-SNL best. Struggling with confidence in both her personal and professional life, she must hit rock bottom in a chocolate fountain meltdown before she can pick herself up to find her Romeo and her true calling.

Streaming on Amazon Prime

Office Space (1999)

Instantly relatable for anyone who’s ever spent time in a cubicle. Office Space explores what happens when the broken printers, working weekends and a hovering boss create an incurable “case of the Mondays.”

Streaming on Max

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Yes, there is a literal crisis of Zombies overtaking the U.K. that threaten the life of Shaun, played by Simon Pegg. But the silver lining in this Zombiepocalypse is that Shaun is forced out of his daily monotony of beer, video games and dead-end job as an electronic’s store manager. He loses (sort of) his step dad and best friend in the process, but he is pushed beyond his limits and though he eventually returns to his life of beer and video games, he does so with a new sense of accomplishment.

Rent on Apple TV

Good Will Hunting (1997)

A prodigy from South Boston struggles with his own inadequacy and loyalties to his blue collar childhood friends. Guided by the counsel of a small-time psychologist, Will Hunting seeks to find a way to reconcile his past and define what “potential” means to him.

Streaming on Max

Knocked Up (2007)

Judd Apatow thrives with characters who are forced to grow up before they think they’re ready. Knocked Up’s two leads, played by Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogen, certainly fit that mold and are thrust into maturation when a one-night stand turns into a commitment neither of them were ready for.

Streaming on Apple TV

Frances Ha (2012)

Noah Baumbach’s 2012 film features the guileless Frances Halladay, played by Greta Gerwig, whose crisis that sends her around the world in search of herself begins in the seemingly simplest of ways: her roommate decides to move out.

Streaming on Tubi

Tommy Boy (1995)

There comes a time in every man’s life when he must stack up against the life of his father. For some, like our protagonist Tommy, it’s not a fair fight. With the family business in his hands, Tommy ventures out on the road to save the company and prove himself once and for all to dear ol’ dad.

Streaming on Pluto TV

The Graduate (1967)

An early adopter of the “quarterlife crisis.” Ben Braddock returns home from college to find the life his parents have laid out for him; job interviews, potential girlfriends and scuba trips. But Ben stalls, unable to join the previous generation’s system, he chooses instead the accompaniment of a woman twice his age. Eventually, the wild oats run out and he’s forced to face his future and decide what’s worth investing the rest of his life in.

Rent on Apple TV

The Greatest Hits premiered at the Austin-based festival on March 14 and has been receiving excellent reviews for not only the intriguing new twist in the time-travel genre but also for the stellar soundtrack. The film uses songs from boygenius, Beach House, Lana Del Rey, Jamie XX and other hits for more than a few memorable needle drops.

That’s because music is the unofficial main character in the film. The real main character is Harriet (Lucy Boynton), a producer-turned-librarian who is making her way through hundreds of vinyl records, trying to find the right song that will save her former boyfriend (David Corenswet) from a tragic fate. As she makes her way through each song, a new potential love interest (Justin H. Min) comes along reminding her that getting stuck in the past is not a life worth living.

Critics are praising the film for its raw and realistic view of processing grief and the difficult process of moving forward. As Deadline reporter Valerie Complex puts it, the movie demonstrates that “healing requires not only confronting and releasing our past but also opening ourselves to new possibilities and connections.” This isn’t your average time-travel romance; it’s a real-life experience — with a magical and musical twist, of course — that resonates with anyone who has loved and lost.

The Greatest Hits premieres in select theaters April 5 and on Hulu April 12.

The comedian presented the award for Achievement in Sound, and he showed once again that his joke delivery is on a level Kimmel could never dream of reaching.

Instead of talking about any of the nominated films in the category, Mulaney spent his time delivering a too-short monologue about other movies. First, he mentioned the importance of the award, namely how without sound we wouldn’t be able to hear lines like, “‘You’re gonna need a bigger boat,’ ‘I’ll have what she’s having’ and ‘He was in the Amazon with my mother when she was researching spiders just before she died.'” (The last line was the second Madame Web joke of the night.)

But Mulaney spent most of his screen time talking about 1989 classic Field of Dreams. Mulaney recapped the ridiculous film plot in a way no one else would ever describe it, while also making a strong case as to why it should have won Best Picture.

Hosting is no easy gig, even for comedians — looking at you, Jo Koy. There’s a delicate balance between being funny, being knowledgeable about the field, and threading the needle between making fun of nominees while still respecting their craft. Kimmel has done a fine job as host for the last four years, but it’s time to pass the baton on to someone who can take things to another level. Mulaney has more than proven he’s the right host for the job.

How many times have you said this when you someone suggests a movie you should watch? And how many times have you actually followed up on it? Probably less than you’re willing to admit. We all want to stay up-to-date on the latest, buzziest new film. But there’s something uplifting about watching a classic that has stood the test of time.

Whether you’re a cinephile or just looking for some wholesome entertainment, we’ve curated a list of old and new movies that are perfect for your viewing pleasure. From heartwarming classics to uplifting modern tales, here are 10 films you should definitely cross off your watchlist this month:

1. The Princess Bride (1987)

You haven’t seen The Princess Bride yet? Inconceivable! Rob Reiner’s timeless classic is a fairy tale adventure for all ages. Filled with romance, humor and swashbuckling action, this film follows the daring escapades of Princess Buttercup and her true love, Westley, as they battle against the odds to be together. The real icing on the cake is the clever and witty dialogue that gets better every time you watch it.

2. Paddington 2 (2017)

Technically, you should see the first Paddington to really understand this world. But the sequel is even better than you can imagine. The marmalade-loving bear, Paddington, goes on a delightful adventure through the streets of London. This charming sequel is a heartwarming tale of friendship, kindness and the importance of family. With its whimsical storytelling and endearing characters, this is one you’ll want to watch with friends, family or even on your own.

3. Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

This is the oldest film on the list, but it’s also one of the best films to stand the test of time. This beloved musical comedy is set in the 1920s and follows the tumultuous transition from silent films to “talkies” and the comedic chaos that ensues. From iconic dance numbers to unforgettable tunes, this film is the true definition of a classic that never fails to entertain.

4. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

Directed by and starring Ben Stiller, this visually stunning film is a reminder we all need to seize the moment and live life to the fullest. Walter Mitty (Stiller) is a daydreamer who sets out on a quest to find a missing photograph that will change his life forever. The film didn’t make a huge splash when it premiered a decade ago, but it’s certainly a film you don’t want to miss.

5. Amélie (2001)

7. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Phone home and visit Steven Spielberg’s timeless tale of friendship between a young boy named Elliott and a friendly extraterrestrial stranded on Earth. Filled with wonder, adventure and  plenty of heartwarming moments, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial continues to captivate audiences of all ages for good reason. We could all use a message of compassion and understanding delivered by a tiny alien.

8. The Parent Trap (1998)

Scotland-based film production company Kaledonia Pictures announced The Unknown is now in the works, with the horror film centering around the disastrous “Willy Wonka Experience” that took the Internet by storm last week. In a nutshell, AI-generated artwork was used to promote an immersive, Willy Wonka-themed experience for Glasgow residents. No surprise, not only did the pictures not live up to reality, but the real-life experience was worse than anyone could have imagined. From dollar store decorations hung in a creepy warehouse to sad-looking Oompa Loompas, the “experience” turned out to be the biggest failure since Fyre Festival.

The internet, of course, had a blast. In particular, the event’s character “the Unknown” has become an Internet legend. The character is not part of Roald Dahl’s classic but is a completely new villain made up for the event. The AI-generated script (which reads like a fever dream) revealed that Willy McDuff and his “Wonkidoodles” — not Oompa Loompas — had to battle “the Unknown” for… well. No one’s really sure. But it definitely wasn’t chocolate.

the Willy Wonka experience just gets better and better
found a longer version of the Unknown clip
you can hear the kids being excited and happy, then the Unknown comes out and the mood just drops pic.twitter.com/KznMrDcLa3

— Sunny Skunk (Migration Hyperfixation) (@SunnySkunk) February 29, 2024

It’s no surprise then that a film studio is already getting the ball rolling. But it won’t be a retelling or a documentary — although that’s likely on its way. Instead, the film will focus on a renowned illustrator and his wife who are haunted by the tragic death of their son, Charlie. Trying to ignore their grief, the couple escape to the Scottish Highlands “where an unknowable evil awaits them.”

The Unknown is aiming for release in late 2024.

Wright produced the film alongside Euphoria actress Nika King and Joe Knittig, the CEO of The Global Orphan Project. Possum Trot tells the true story of a small East Texas church, led by bishop and first lady Donna Martin, and 22 Black families who adopted 77 of “the most difficult-to-place children” from their local foster care system. Their work ignited a national movement that led to drastic shifts within the foster care and adoption community.

Appearing in the trailer, Wright said the film asks the question of ,”How do we as a community, not only the Church, but how do we rally everyone to step in for kids, because they are the future?”

Reports show there are approximately 391,098 children in foster care in the U.S. today. Wright and her fellow crew members hope the story of Possum Trot will spark a movement within the church and individuals.

“The Martin family and this community have shown us a solution to the foster crisis,” said director Joshua Weigel. “They’re fighters and we believe this film will catalyze others to courageously follow their lead. I’m honored they asked us to tell their story, and that Angel Studios is bringing Possum Trot to the world.”

Angel Studios acquired the rights to the film in February. CEO Neal Harmon told Deadline the studio was drawn to the project because of how it was a story that “amplified light” in the midst of a dark situation.

“The families went through so much because some of these kids were trafficked, some of these kids had been abused by their parents, one of these kids, their mother was murdered right in front of them,” he said. “Difficult, difficult, hard, hard stuff, but this little community changed the face of the entire foster care system of Texas just because of that selfless act.”

Last year, Angel Studios’ Sound of Freedom became one of the 10 highest-grossing films of 2023 after it was released on July 4. This year, the studio is hoping Possum Trot can have a similar impact.

Dune Part 2 – March 1

After what seems like an eternity of waiting, the second part of Dennis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Dune is finally here. The epic will see Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) teaming up with Chani (Zendaya) and the rest of the Fremen to seek revenge against the enemies who destroyed his family. Paul will have to choose between the love of his life and the fate of the universe, all while trying to prevent a horrific future only he can see coming. Oh, and he’s got to figure out how to ride a terrifying sandworm. NBD.

Joining Chalamet and Zendaya is an absolutely stacked cast that includes Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Anya Taylor-Joy, Christopher Walken and many more.

Shirley – March 22

Butterfly in the Sky — a nod to the show’s iconic theme song — goes behind the scenes of the beloved PBS show and tells the story of the challenges the show’s creators faced getting a generation of kids to dive into books in an increasingly technologically centered world. The documentary also shines a spotlight on LeVar Burton, who hosted the show for its entire 23-year run.

“Having both grown up in Texas, Reading Rainbow not only reflected the diverse cultures that surrounded us, but LeVar Burton also introduced us to other worlds in colorful and magical ways,” the directors said. “We believe Reading Rainbow is among the most important shows ever produced and a true unsung hero of children’s programming. It’s important for us to honor its legacy and teach a new generation about this milestone in television history.”

The documentary will premiere in select theaters beginning March 17. If you can’t catch then, however, don’t fret. It will be released VOD on April 30.

It turns out the award-winning director, who has been tapped to adapt two books from C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia series for Netflix, has been working on the project for a long time already. She told TIME that she wrote a draft of the script before she ever stepped onto the set of Barbie. 

“Knowing that I’d laid the groundwork for Narnia and wanted to return to it — that’s probably something I set up for myself psychologically,” she said.

At a press conference at the Berlin Film Festival, where he will receive the honorary Golden Bear award, Scorsese shared that he’s still figuring out how to bring Jesus’ story to the big screen. But he’s got a few ideas.

“I’m contemplating it right now,” the director said. “What kind of film I’m not quite sure, but I want to make something unique and different that could be thought-provoking, and I hope also entertaining. I’m not quite sure yet how to go about it.”

Scorsese announced last year that he was working on a film about the life of Jesus after meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican in May. Last month, the director revealed the story will be based on the book A Life of Jesus by Shūsaku Endō — who also wrote Silence, which Scorsese adapted in 2016 — and focus on Jesus’ core teachings in a way that “explores the principles but doesn’t proselytize.”

Academy Award-winner Regina King (If Beale Street Could Talk) takes on the role of the charismatic political leader who was known for her optimism and determined spirit — a necessary trait to have during a time when America had just begun to move past segregation laws. In the trailer, Chisholm has her sights set on the 1972 U.S. presidential race, and she’s got some pretty big opponents to face along the way — mostly white Congressmen. But she doesn’t give up, and (spoiler alert) while she doesn’t win, Chisholm makes sure she doesn’t go down without a fight.

Shirley is directed and written by John Ridley, who wrote the award-winning script for Twelve Years a Slave. The film also stars Terrence Howard, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Christina Jackson, André Holland, Lucas Hedges and the late Lance Reddick.

It’s rarely comfortable to look at America’s history with race and politics, but it is necessary to understand our past in order to work toward a better future. Chisholm’s story is a reminder that one person’s determination can snowball into change for all. Perhaps that’s something we could all be reminded of these days.

Shirley premieres on Netflix on March 22.

Reiner came on as a producer after director Dan Partland completed the film, offering assistance to distribute it to a wider audience. Reiner explained that he wanted to be part of the documentary because of his personal interest in the subject matter.

“First of all, Jesus was a Jewish person. And when I went through the roughest time of my life, the dark time of the soul, what I came away with was the core idea of what Jesus taught — which is to do unto others as you would have them do unto you. That stuck with me. And when I look at the Christian nationalist movement, it doesn’t seem to have anything to do with that,” Reiner told Young.

In the film, Partland interviews conservative Christian leaders like Christianity Today editor-in-chief Russell Moore and VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer about what Christian nationalism is (and what it isn’t) and how it’s been able to rise over the last several decades. Reiner summarizes the history of Christian nationalism by clarifying it began with race:

“The problem [Christian nationalists] had was initially they tried to do it using race. They’d say, ‘You shouldn’t have black people and white people going to the same school.’ Well, that’s kind of ugly. It’s hard to create a movement based on racism. So they had a big problem there. And it wasn’t until Roe v. Wade came along that they said, ‘Ah, we can latch onto this and make this a fundraising opportunity.’ But when you look at the Christian nationalist movement, it’s virtually all white people, and so the racist element cannot be overlooked.”

Reiner also says that Christian nationalist leaders have continued to grow the movement today by “co-opting Jesus.”

“You can justify anything if you say you’re doing it in the name of Jesus and the name of God. But as Russell Moore points out [in the film], that’s not what Jesus taught. He didn’t talk about using violence to get what you want. I mean, it’s all about persuading through teaching and through the Gospel, not through violence. It’s unfortunate, but this movement has co-opted Jesus and used it as a weapon, physically using it as a weapon,” Reiner said.

Reiner hopes the documentary shows that Christian nationalism is damaging our society in more ways than one. He just hopes they listen to what Christian leaders have to say.

“Not only is this movement is a danger to democracy, but it’s a danger to Christianity itself. We try to lay that out and show what ultimately could happen.

“I mean, that’s why we have the people in the film that we do,” he continued. “It’s not me saying these things. These are respected Christian leaders saying these things. They’re not going to listen to me. They think I’m a ‘Hollywood libtard’ or something. But that’s why we have people who they can respect saying those things. This is something they believe.”

You can also listen to the full conversation with Reiner on NPR here.

On NPR’s Fresh Air podcast this week, Ruffalo talked about growing up in a multi-faith household and a particularly formative experience he had as a child attending a revival service put on by Jimmy Swaggart at an Assemblies of God church in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

“My family was Italian Catholics,” he said. “Then my mom and her mother became evangelicals during the First Assembly of God/Pentecostal/Jimmy Swaggart era. And my dad split off completely in a whole other direction into the Baha’i faith.”

“My grandmother, for her birthday, asked me to be saved. And I was like, ‘Saved from what? I’m eight. I haven’t even gotten to do anything yet, really,'” Ruffalo joked.

“But [she said], ‘The second you come through the birth canal, you’ve sinned. That’s the original sin,'” he continued. ‘And I’m like, ‘Oh, yeah, OK. Oh, yeah, makes sense to me. I’ll do whatever you want, Grandma.'”

The (pre-scandal) televangelist Jimmy Swaggart was leading revival services at their church. During the service, Swaggart held an altar call for the kids and Ruffalo’s grandmother urged him to go to the front:

“I’m walking down there [thinking] I want to be saved. I mean, I don’t want to go to hell, and it’s going to make my grandma happy. But man, it is so intense down here and it’s so sweaty and everyone’s talking in different languages. So I got down there and we’re lined up. Each kid is getting prayed on and then they’re falling down or falling over. And I was like, ‘I’m not feeling it.’ Then finally I was like, ‘Oh man, I’m not going to be the one who doesn’t get Jesus today. No, not me. Nuh-uh.’ And I just kind of went with it.”

So, the Marvel star took a dive and fell on his knees, acting like he had been “struck down by the spirit of the Lord.” It wasn’t until he returned to his seat that he felt guilty about faking his experience. His grandmother asked if he “felt it,” and Ruffalo acted as if he truly did.

“Oh, God, I felt so ashamed,” he said. “Everyone here is feeling so much and I didn’t feel anything… What that sets up in you at so early an age is so difficult for your ongoing relationship. It became this thing that was always there that I didn’t understand. Now I do, but I didn’t then. It was just a shameful feeling.”

Ruffalo shared with The Hollywood Reporter that his experience growing up in that church scene helped lead him into acting.

“That was really my first acting gig,” he said.

You can listen to Ruffalo tell the full story on Fresh Air starting at 24:28.

Here are eight works worth diving this month:

1. DESCENDANT

Netflix released one of the most gripping documentaries in 2022, telling the story of the descendants of the survivors from the Clotilda, the last-known slave ship to arrive in the U.S. The film explores the descendants’ rich history, as well as their fight to preserve their heritage and home.

You can watch DESCENDANT on Netflix.

2. Judas and the Black Messiah

You can watch Judas and the Black Messiah on Max.

Sidney

Sidney Poitier was so much more than an actor. He was a legendary filmmaker and activist who found himself at the center of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement. Sidney honors his legacy, as historians and film experts discuss the impact he had on Hollywood and history forever.

You can watch Sidney on Apple TV+.

One Night in Miami…

Regina King directed the 2021 film about the imagined night of Feb. 25, 1964, when Muhammed Ali joined Jim Brown, Sam Cooke and Malcom X to discuss what success looked like for Black men during the Civil Rights Movement. The film dives into their respective roles in the movement as well as what the culture was like at the time. It’s a unique conversation that will challenge your view of the Civil Rights Movement.

You can watch One Night in Miami… on Amazon Prime.

I Am Not Your Negro

Based on the unfinished James Baldwin book Remember This House, the film analyzes the reality of race in America through the lives of Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.

You can watch I Am Not Your Negro on Peacock.

Raisin in the Sun

If you’ve never seen the adaptation of Lorraine Hansberry’s play, it’s time to fix that. The story follows a newly widowed woman who receives a hefty insurance payment, but her family is divided over how to spend it. The play originally debuted on Broadway back in 1959, but its message still carries on today.

You can watch A Raisin in the Sun on Tubi.

Summer of Soul

Questlove’s documentary tells the story of the Harlem Cultural Festival in the summer of 1969. Over the course of six weeks during the summer of 1969, thousands of people attended the festival to celebrate Black history, culture, music and fashion.

You can watch Summer of Soul on Hulu or Disney+.

Hidden Figures

For decades, the true story of the Black female mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race was relatively unknown. Now, both the book and the film tell the tale of the women who helped lead the way for the future of America.

You can watch Hidden Figures on Disney+.

Hauser, known for his roles in I, Tonya and Richard Jewell, recently won a Primetime Emmy for his role as serial killer Larry Hall in Black Bird. During the filming of Black Bird in New Orleans, Hauser underwent a deep transformation that restored his life and his family.

“This really changed my life because I ended up getting sober in the middle of the shoot,” he told Colbert about filming Black Bird. “You know, I was in a rough place personally. I was not the best version of myself — to put it vague and safe. But then I played this serial killer and you’re in New Orleans which is a very spiritually thick place to be … there’s an atmosphere of dark spirituality there at times.

“So I got sober in the middle of the shoot and I started going to therapy. It was like the catalyst for all these wonderful things that happened, including healing my family,” he continued.

Hauser then pointed to an “I Am Second” bracelet on his wrist.

“I did this video documentary thing called I Am Second and if you look it up on YouTube, you can see my wife and I, our whole story, where we very vulnerably talk about our problems and how we mended them and how we got back together. It’s a beautiful story,” Hauser said.

In the four-part video series, Hauser and his wife Amy open about about initially filing for divorce while pregnant with their first child. Hauser then began abusing alcohol while struggling with suicidal ideation before finding his faith in Christ.

In director Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster Barbie, a doll meant to be played with as an idealized, aspirational toy is struggling with feelings of imperfection and death (even while dancing). So Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, embarks upon a journey of discovery, beyond the boundaries of her Dream House. Her exploration is rooted in angst regarding the inevitability of death and our collective longing for purpose.

Billie steps into Barbie’s shoes, where the pressures of conforming to an ideal clash with her longing to be real. Reduced to a commodity, she’s cut off from her feelings. This tension can short-circuit our creative pursuits. The pressure to perform, to be perfect, can overwhelm us when we know our shortcomings. Having experienced joy, we wrestle with how to process complex feelings of sadness. Doubt and indecision stymie us. Our earlier confidence is replaced by the haunting question, “What Was I Made For?”

In an interview with Allure, Eilish recalled writing the song with her brother Finneas “in a period of time where we couldn’t have been less inspired and less creative.” Despite winning seven Grammys and an Oscar, Eilish felt like a failure, “We’ve lost it. Why are we even doing this?” “It” is the ability to create, to find something new to say. In reflecting upon Barbie’s search for significance, Billie connected with her own creative crisis. Only after finishing the song, Eilish “realized it was about me. It’s everything I feel. And it’s not just me—everyone feels like that, eventually.” For Barbie, for Billie, the song is a search for meaning, for something we’re made for.

As a producer, Finneas builds a subtle mix of strings while layering in Billie’s background harmonies that support her lead vocal. These polished sounds only reinforce the direct expression in the lyrics. This weekend, Billie and Finneas will likely win Grammys for Song and Record of the Year before accepting a  probable second Oscar for “Best Original Song” in March.

“What Was I Made For?” is the song of the year because it is also the question of the era. It captures the anxious zeitgeist prompted by the rise of generative A.I.  Its efficiency make us question our purpose but we must also ask, “What was A.I. made for?” What exactly are we doing with it? Is it supposed to give us more time to deal with life’s bigger questions? With “menial” tasks (like reading and writing, painting and drawing) simplified, we can seemingly carve out additional space for groundbreaking research and innovation.

Instead, it is prompting even more anxiety, offering shortcuts enabled by machine learning.  Authors, musicians, and artists are increasingly discovering that is a coded term for copyright theft. Students and teachers wonder if it can read faster and generate quicker, then why bother? What is homework made for? In a voracious search for predictability, artificial intelligence is gobbling up whatever data sets and artistic creativity is placed on its path – with or without creators’ consent. Artificial intelligence is built upon human intelligence. Its predictions are rooted in all that we’ve said and made before. Copyright lawyers may be the only attorneys to benefit from such brazen theft.

In an age of artificiality, Billie and Barbie traffic in authenticity.  Eilish directs and stars in her own video for the song. She dresses as her younger self, playing with dolls, trying on outfits and roles. Who can I be? Doctor, debutante, surfer? Child’s play is inherently unpredictable and inefficient. Creativity is about surprise, discovering something you didn’t know about a character, the world or ourselves. In the feature film, Ruth Hendler, the founder of Mattel, offers advice to her confused creation. Barbie seeks permission to become human. Yet, Ruth suggests that Barbie already has plenty of self-determination. How will she exercise that freedom? Can we recover what it means to be authentic and human while everything is being reduced to predictive algorithms?

On a visit to the Computer History Museum in Silicon Valley, I was struck by their exhibit celebrating the arrival of self-driving cars. It suggested how much smoother and safer traffic will be with A.I. behind the wheel. Riders were pictured inside a car, with their hands-free to type and scroll on their devices. The promise was clear: “If the car drives you, then you can spend more time on computers.” We can work more. Earlier. Reclaiming our time — so we can spend more hours on social media and spreadsheets. But what if we enjoy driving? The sense of agency we retain, to adjust our speed and music to match our mood is liberating.  Will we still notice slight differences in the sunlight or in our neighborhoods if we no longer need to watch the road? Doesn’t driving help us process our thoughts? It is rare, unstructured time to contemplate where we’re heading or what we’ve just encountered. It is an opportunity to rewind or unwind or even daydream.

Barbie’s ability to discover a world beyond her imagination is rooted in driving. A road trip in her pink Corvette inspires new possibilities. In the age of A.I., Barbie and Billie remind us that H.I. – human imagination, ingenuity, and inspiration — remains our enduring super-power. What are we made for? To create, to drive, to sing, to dream.

Craig Detweiler is President of the Wedgwood Circle and author of the forthcoming book, Honest Creativity: The Foundations of Boundless, Good, and Inspired Innovation from Morehead Publishing.

If you’re in the mood to watch another Holdovers-esque film, check out these five films that resonate with similar themes of self-discovery, unconventional relationships and the complexities of the human spirit. Plus, they’re just good movies.

1. Dead Poets Society

This timeless classic, starring the incomparable Robin Williams, captures the spirit of inspiration and the impact of an extraordinary teacher on his students. Set in a conservative boarding school, it echoes The Holdovers in its exploration of authority, rebellion and the pursuit of passion. Dead Poets Society is a film that will compel you to stand on your desk and look at life from a new perspective.

2. Good Will Hunting

This list wouldn’t be complete without Good Will Hunting. Another masterpiece starring Robin Williams, joined this time by a young Matt Damon, the film delves into the life of a young genius grappling with his past and future. Its blend of raw emotion, brilliant dialogue and the exploration of mentorship and friendship aligns perfectly with the themes found in The Holdovers.

3. The Edge of Seventeen

A more modern take on the coming-of-age genre, this film offers a raw and often humorous look at the trials and tribulations of teenage life. Its protagonist, played by an excellent Hailee Steinfeld, navigates the complexities of high school, friendship and family, bringing to mind the relatable and heartfelt characters of The Holdovers. The Edge of Seventeen is a poignant reminder of the turbulence of growing up.

4. Rushmore

Truthfully, there’s a lot of Wes Anderson flicks that could fill this spot, but there’s something about his first success that makes it the perfect pick. Rushmore is a quirky and endearing film about an eccentric teenager, his love for his school, and his unique friendships. The film’s distinct style, combined with its exploration of ambition and unconventional relationships, shares a kinship with The Holdovers in its celebration of individuality and the bonds we form.

5. The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The adaptation of Stephen Chbosky’s novel is a beautifully crafted tale of adolescence, friendship and the journey to find one’s place in the world. Its honest portrayal of the highs and lows of teenage life, coupled with the importance of meaningful connections, resonates deeply with the themes presented in The Holdovers. Even if you’ve seen it before, it’s well-past time for a rewatch.

According to Deadline, the new film will be a “completely fresh take” on the franchise, though we’re guessing the underlying plot will still be, Oh no! Another set of scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should! We get it.

The new films will bring back David Koepp, the screenwriter responsible for the original Jurassic Park and its 1997 sequel, and an all-new cast. That means neither Jurassic World cast members Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard nor Jurassic Park stars Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum or Sam Neill are expected to return.

The only person who will return is Steven Spielberg as the film’s executive producer. After his last project, The Color Purple, was snubbed at the Oscars, perhaps he’s wanting to return to something he knows will work.

To us, this feels like yet another example of the Hollywood formula of taking beloved box office hits and putting out so many sequels that eventually no one cares anymore. (We’re looking at you, Fast & Furious.) Hey, maybe they’ll wrap a dinosaur in tin foil and launch it into space like Ludacris.

John Boyega has signed on to The Book of Eli prequel, where he will play a younger version of Denzel Washington’s Eli. The original creative team behind the 2010 post-apocalypse movie is getting back together to develop the series, with Boyega stepping in as an executive producer.

If you need a refresher, The Book of Eli takes place 30 years after a nuclear catastrophe caused an ecocide. Eli (Washington) is a nomad who fights his way across a torn-apart, post-apocalyptic America while protecting a mysterious sacred book that holds the secrets to humanity’s salvation. (Spoiler alert: It’s the Bible.) Also, Eli is blind and the book is written in Braille, making him the sole protector of God’s Word.

While there were some obvious nominations that made the cut (Oppenheimer is rightfully the most nominated film of the year), others are baffling, missing from what should have been shoo-in spots. And some films are completely missing from the nomination list altogether (Iron Claw, we will avenge you) while others are in arguably far too many categories.

That being said, here are two winners and four losers from the 2024 Oscar nominees:

Winner: Lily Gladstone

It’s no surprise that Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon pulled in 10 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. And of course, there’s Lily Gladstone, who gained not only her first Oscar nomination, but she also became the first Native American actress to receive a Best Actress nomination in the Academy’s 97-year history. Sure, it shouldn’t have taken this long for this achievement to have been met, but it sure is sweet to see Gladstone receiving the recognition she deserves.

Loser: Barbie

While some corners of the Internet dubbed 2023 as “The Year of Barbie,” it seems the Academy didn’t agree. Don’t get us wrong, the record-breaking film pulled in eight nominations, but there are two glaringly obvious snubs that we can’t wrap our minds around. First off, Margot Robbie, who starred in the titular role, didn’t receive a nomination for Best Actress. But in a very on-brand move for the Oscars, her co-star Ryan Gosling was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for Ken. Make it make sense!

To make matters worse, Greta Gerwig, who became the highest-grossing female director, didn’t make the cut for Best Director. If she had, she would have been the second female director ever to have been nominated twice. Let’s hope her work on her Narnia adaptation gets her that nomination.

Loser: Former teen heartthrobs

What does the Academy have against movie stars who kicked off their careers as teen heartthrobs? Both Zac Efron, of High School Musical fame, and Charles Melton, of Riverdale shame, were notably missing from this year’s Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor nominations. Efron gave an emotionally devastating performance as Kevin Von Erich in Sean Durkin’s Iron Claw, a film that should have been nominated in multiple categories but ended up with none. Meanwhile, Melton captured the difficult nuance of Joe, a 36-year-old father struggling with his life and romantic choices in May December. And don’t even get us started on biggest former teen heartthrob snub: Leonardo DiCaprio from Killers of the Flower Moon.

Loser: The Color Purple

The 2023 remake had all the ingredients to be a strong Oscar contender: a stacked cast (Danielle Brooks! Halle Bailey! Taraji P. Henson! Fantasia Barrino!), Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey as co-producers, whimsical costumes, and moving music scenes. And yet, Brooks was the sole recipient of a nomination for the film for Best Supporting Actress. Surely the Academy voters could have added them to another category. Where is the nomination for Best Actress? Best Makeup and Hairstyling? Best Production Design? Even Best Song?

Speaking of…

Winner: A Flamin’ Hot Cheeto Song

One of the most surprising announcements of the day was that not only did Flamin’ Hot, a movie about the falsified version of how Frito-Lay developed the iconic chip, have an original song in the film, it also received a nomination. “The Fire Inside” by Becky G could easily go down as one of the biggest sneaks of the award season. It somehow bumped Jack Black’s “Peaches” from The Super Mario Bros. Movie from making the list, which is shocking considering that song was inescapable for weeks.

Loser: The Academy

The Oscars are meant to represent the best of the best in filmmaking. It’s the night for Hollywood. But with so many misses, it’s hard to celebrate this year’s nominees knowing so many rightful actors, actresses, directors and films are missing from their respective categories. 2023 was a monumental year for movies. Unfortunately, the Academy’s nomination list doesn’t quite reflect that.

As you’re settling into the new year, you’re likely thinking of all the things you want to accomplish this year. Signing up for that gym membership (or finally canceling the one from last year), starting a new hobby, joining a club or, if you’re feeling especially adventurous this year, making travel plans with friends. But sometimes, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where movies can help.

Movies are a great way to get inspired to travel. They can take you to exotic locales, introduce you to new people and show you the beauty of the world. Plus, they’re a lot of fun to watch.

So if you’re looking for some inspiration for this year’s vacations, here are 10 movies that will make you want to pack your bags and hit the road.

1. Eat, Pray, Love

Eat, Pray, Love is a heartwarming drama about a woman (Julia Roberts) who travels the world in search of herself. The movie takes her to Italy, India, and Bali, and each country offers her something new and special. While her journey takes her on unexpected turns, it’s a reminder that while life rarely goes as we planned, there’s always adventure out there.

2. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

This one is for the daydreamers. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a whimsical fantasy about a man who escapes his mundane life through daydreams. Ben Stiller delivers an enjoyable and fun performance of a man who longs for his dreams to become a reality. From Iceland to Greenland to the Himalayas, this movie will make you want to travel to far-off places.

3. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

A group of friends traveling the country together, fighting alongside one another and eating second breakfast — what more could you want? The Lord of the Rings trilogy is an epic fantasy that transports you to another world, and reminds you that adventure is waiting around any corner. While the fellowship wander make their way though the Shire, Middle-earth, a the land of elves and dwarves, start making a list of all the mystical places you want to explore with your own pals.

4. The Princess Bride

The Princess Bride is a classic fairy tale about a princess who is kidnapped by a wicked prince. The movie is full of adventure, humor and romance. While you hopefully won’t encounter the Pit of Despair or Cliffs of Insanity on any of your journeys, it might spark the idea to try something new and exciting this summer.

5. The Grand Budapest Hotel

Wes Anderson knows how to transport you to a world full of stunning visuals and quirky moments. The Grand Budapest Hotel is a whimsical comedy-drama about a concierge at a European hotel, and while some scenes are over-the-top, the movie shows that you will always meet some interesting characters on your travels.

6. Wild

Reese Witherspoon delivers a powerhouse performance as Cheryl Strayed, a woman who hikes the Pacific Crest Trail to heal her wounds and find her inner strength. Brace yourself for breathtaking vistas, rugged wilderness, and the triumph of the human spirit. After watching this film, you’ll be lacing up your hiking boots, ready to conquer your own personal challenges.

7. Before Sunrise – The Trilogy

Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy go on a picturesque exploration of life and love against the backdrop of Vienna, Paris and Greece in a series of enchanting encounters over the years. If these films don’t inspire you to book a trip abroad, we don’t know what will.

8. Into the Wild

Based on a true story, this thought-provoking film follows Christopher McCandless as he abandons his material possessions and embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the Alaskan wilderness. The breathtaking nature, philosophical musings and a profound exploration of the meaning of life will surely inspire you to seek some of your own adventure. Just remember — it’s essential to strike a balance between adventure and preparation.

9. Up 

Pixar has the stunning ability to make us sob our eyes out while inspiring us to take an imaginative and heartwarming adventure. Carl Fredricksen and his floating house reminds us that life’s greatest adventures are often found in the most unexpected places. Who knew a balloon-powered house could teach us so much about embracing life?

10. Encounters at the End of the World

Technically this is a documentary, but it’s so worth the watch. Encounters at the End of the World follows Werner Herzog as he travels to the continent to meet with the scientists, researchers and support staff who call Antarctica home. If Antartica isn’t on your bucket list yet, after this documentary it totally will be.

For that reason, many adults go to the movies to enjoy the latest animated film without children, not because they want to delight in “kid’s stuff,” but because the genre offers poignant messages in a beautiful format that only these types of movies can really deliver.

That said, not all animated movies are meant for adults at all. For every Disney and Pixar movie that is released, there are plenty more family movies that won’t challenge an adult’s ideas or tastes in any new ways.

This list of recent animated films overlooks those films in favor of the ones you might not have heard of or bothered to check out because you may not have thought it was for you. It also skips over recent Pixar films, simply because those movies have done well to establish a reputation for high quality entertainment and storytelling. So if you’re looking for some good animated films to get into as an adult, here are just a few you shouldn’t miss.

Song of the Sea

This 2014 Irish film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and rightfully so. It boasted impressive visuals and hand-drawn animation, and its story about a brother and sister who live in a lighthouse is as simple as it is heart wrenching.

Their adventure is a great introduction to Celtic folklore as well, similar to another recent film by the studio, The Secret of the Kells. If you’re curious about well-written stories made by other western countries, then Song of the Sea is one of the most visually striking offerings you can find.

When Marnie Was There

Believed to be Studio Ghibli’s last film by Hayao Miyazaki until he came out of retirement this past year, When Marnie Was There had a lot of longtime fans to please when it was released in 2014. And for the most part, it fully delivered a compelling and beautiful tale about the friendship of two girls in a dreamlike fairy tale.

When Marnie Was There seems like the most fitting one for older audiences to enjoy. It relies heavily on a deeply emotional ending that is tough to handle for younger viewers, but it will leave an impact on just about everyone.

The Little Prince

You’ve probably seen this unassuming stop-motion animation feature on your Netflix queue before, and for good reasons. This 2015 film is well worth the quick watch for its stunning animation and interesting story-within-a-story approach.

Based on a 1943 novel of the same name, The Little Prince is a reworking of the original story, set around a young girl who learns of a strange, imaginative world that challenges her perceptions about childhood and growing up in general. Though the lesson here seems to be about how we deal with coming of age, it’s really about human interactions and holding on to childlike faith.

Kubo and the Two Strings

Another stop-motion animation film released in 2016, Kubo and the Two Strings comes from the same studio that brought us The Boxtrolls, Paranorman, and Coraline. But it’s probably the most innovative and jaw-dropping feature Laika has done yet.

On the surface, Kubo is an original story about a young boy who uses his magic powers to fight dangerous villains in a mythological setting. He uses music to turn origami to life and is guided by two animal protectors.

The movie certainly builds upon themes that Christ-followers might find challenging and counter-intuitive to western culture, but certainly in an insightful way that’s also benefitted by some impressive voice acting and unbelievable set pieces you won’t expect from a stop-motion film.

Moana

Like Zootopia, Disney’s Moana is actually a great film for adults, too. The music, made in part by Hamilton’s Lin-Manuel Miranda, is some of the best Disney has made in years. And the main character of Moana is devoid of the typical Disney princess cliches we’ve come to expect over the years.

There’s no love interest for her to swoon over, and she’s heir to a leadership position that actually doesn’t require marriage for once. Instead, the story focuses on some more interesting, thought-provoking themes, like balancing the obligation to family with the desire to branch out and explore the world, similar to The Little Mermaid, but without the lovesick teenage rebellion.

For young people who wonder if they should leave home and their loved ones behind in pursuit of big cities and bigger dreams, Moana tells a touching story about how to deal with that decision in a meaningful way. And that’s not even mentioning how fantastic the visuals are, even for Disney.

Animated movies can be some of the best experiences you have at the movie theater or in your living room, but it’s definitely irritating to get into one that talks down to its viewers or uses tired gags and slapstick to keep children entertained for the sake of it. Thankfully, we have plenty of great animated films coming out every year that are made to be thoughtful, captivating the depths and heights of life to be enjoyed by all ages.

During the pre-show ceremony, a reporter from Entertainment Tonight asked McHale about the possibility of the Community movie moving forward. McHale responded with exciting news.

“Oh it’s happening, we got the money,” McHale laughed. “We got the money, and that was 90 percent of it.”

Thankfully, fans didn’t have to wait too long to see McHale reunite with two other Greendale alumni, Ken Jeong and Donald Glover.

Donald Glover, Joel McHale and Ken Jeong at the Emmys. #EmmyAwards #Emmy2024 #Community #SixSeasonsAndAMovie pic.twitter.com/yyLEvIRwfV

— Movie Snaps – E. Gabriel R. (@twitteacine) January 16, 2024

And according to Community creator Dan Harmon, hopefully we won’t have to wait too much longer for the rest of the cast to reunite.

“This is a matter of when and not if,” said Harmon, breathing new hope into the long, long, looong gestating movie to his beloved sitcom. All Community fans know that the goal has always been six seasons and a movie. The franchise has delivered on the seasons quota. And now, it sounds like the movie might really be underway. Harmon says the story is done and, more importantly, cast negotiations have begun.

“Legitimacy is here, conversations and agreements are happening,” Harmon told The Wrap. “There’s a story – who knows if we’ll end up sticking to it, but it was something we had to compile in order to take it out and court various venues. And now negotiations happen.”

It’s good news for Human Beings everywhere and very on brand, as Community‘s whole entire thing during its shoestring six seasons was as a well-loved but little-watched sitcom forever on the verge of cancelation. It’s ironic, given how many stars it launched into the atmosphere. Alison Brie, Donald Glover, Gillian Jacobs, and of course McHale and Jeong all got a huge career bump out of their time on Community, and the show caught some pre-household name time with the likes of John Oliver, Brie Larson, Kumail Nanjiani and future Avengers helmers the Russo brothers.

During Community‘s peak, Parks and Rec was the most beloved sitcom on TV while 30 Rock had the most gags per second. But Community was the slyest, weaving its own meta commentary into an endless feedback loop of jokes about sitcom tropes that became tropes themselves before becoming jokes again. It made for some delicious fun from 2009 to 2015 when the show aired. Will it still work in …whenever this movie comes out? For more on that, we’ll have to check in with the only real experts we’ve got on the subject: Troy and Abed in the moooorning.

Gerwig has been tapped by Netflix to adapt two books from C.S. Lewis’ series, The Chronicles of Narnia, and filming will begin later this year. However, the filmmaker shared she’s nervous about the projects.

“I’m slightly in the place of terror because I really do have such reverence for Narnia,” she told BBC Radio 4’s Today program. “I loved Narnia so much as a child. As an adult, C.S. Lewis is a thinker and a writer. I’m intimidated by doing this. It’s something that feels like a worthy thing to be intimidated by.