Let’s get real—there’s something peculiarly fascinating about films that are worth a fortune. And then they are never seen. Studios will usually toss tens (or hundreds) of millions at blockbuster concepts, only to terminate them before they’re even screened. From lost superhero blockbusters to overreaching sci-fi epics, these cancelled films exist more as urban myth than completed projects. So sit back with some popcorn—and perhaps take a pour out for the budgets that blew—while we cut through 10 of the most costly films never to see the light of day.

10. The Fantastic Four (1994) – Marvel’s Forgotten First Attempt

Years before the MCU turned into a cultural behemoth, low-budget producer Bernd Eichinger and director Roger Corman produced a Fantastic Four movie. They did make it for only $1 million—but Marvel wasn’t exactly pleased. Then-president Avi Arad supposedly purchased the film so it could never see the light of day. There are bootlegs out there, but otherwise, this cringe-worthy first try at Marvel’s first family is lost forever.

9. Temptation – A Musical That Fell Flat

A $12 million movie musical featuring Zoe Saldana and Broadway’s Adam Pascal is promising—on paper. Mark Tarlov directed it, and Temptation was intended to be an emotional, Rent-style Broadway hit. But after only one festival screening, negative reviews (and unfinished-looking visuals) relegated it to the shelf forever. Tarlov was going to rehash it, but his passing in 2021 put an end to hopes for a re-release.

8. Spring Break ’83 – A Lost Comedy in Court

This $18 million teen comedy of the 1980s had a loaded cast—JoePantoliano, John Goodman, Erik Estrada, and Morgan Fairchild. Spring Break ’83 never got to the theaters, however, due to lawsuits and claims of unpaid wages. Legal wrangles stalled it in limbo, and it still hasn’t been officially released. Bootlegs alone are left, reminders of what might have been a nostalgic, raunchy time capsule.

7. The Day The Clown Died – Jerry Lewis’s Hidden Tragedy

Few unreleased movies are shrouded in the aura of Jerry Lewis’s 1972 Holocaust drama, in which he starred as a clown held in a Nazi concentration camp. Self-financed at $2 million, Lewis himself put the film on the shelf after critics howled about the grim premise. An incomplete version now resides behind the Library of Congress—guarded against anyone’s attempts to see it—but Lewis promised that no one ever would, and to this day they haven’t.

6. Black Water Transit – A Thriller Derailed by Lawsuits

Directed by American History X’s Tony Kaye and featuring Laurence Fishburne and Karl Urban, Black Water Transit appeared to be a gritty post-Katrina crime thriller with promise. Instead, a web of lawsuits and rights entanglements drowned its $23 million production. Although it was shot, the film was never released and now serves as a cautionary tale of how make-or-break behind-the-scenes fighting can kill a movie.

5. Masters of the Universe – He-Man’s Lost Revival

Netflix and Sony were both on board to revive He-Man with a major-budget reboot. With Shang-Chi scribe David Callaham writing and directing duo Aaron and Adam Nee in charge, the live-action Masters of the Universe went through $30 million before it was canceled. Mattel is said to still be searching for a new distributor, but the power of Grayskull stays. Offline for now.

4. Superman Lives – The Most Bizarre Superman We Never Had

A picture of Nicolas Cage as Superman. Tim Burton is at the helm. The script is adapted from The Death of Superman. It sounds crazy because it was. Superman Lives was the film intended to revive DC in the late ’90s, but after countless rewrites and more than $30 million spent, Warner Bros. dropped it. All that’s left are concept art, test footage, and Cage’s recent appearance in The Flash cameo—a strange nod to the strangest Superman movie never created.

3. Jodorowsky’s Dune – Sci-Fi’s Greatest “What If”

Avant-garde director Alejandro Jodorowsky attempted to bring Dune to life in the 1970s in a way that no one had—or has since. He employed artists such as H.R. Giger, a score by Pink Floyd, and Salvador Dalí, who wanted $100,000 an hour to participate, and this saga would have been more than 10 hours long. Although there was massive pre-production, the studio withdrew funding. Though never filmed, the sheer madness of the project inspired all future sci-fi movies.

2. Batgirl – A $90M Superhero Movie Abandoned Mid-Flight

Batgirl had everything a hit film needed: a hot up-and-coming star in Leslie Grace, Batman himself, Michael Keaton, back for more, and Brendan Fraser villainizing. But after an estimated $90–$100 million was spent, Warner Bros. Discovery pulled it from production, blaming weak test screenings and shifting strategy. It wasn’t even released to streaming, making Batgirl one of the most expensive productions ever to be completely erased.

1. Empires of the Deep – China’s Underwater Fantasy Disaster

Costing a staggering $130 million, Empires of the Deep takes top honors as the most costly film never seen. Co-produced and featuring Olga Kurylenko, the movie suffered years of development hell, numerous directors, and enormous production setbacks. Although completed, reportedly, the film’s funding and distribution woes left it stuck at the bottom of the ocean. It is an enigmatic tale of ambition that went wrong.

For every film that reaches the cinema screen, there is another that quietly (or spectacularly) perishes behind the scenes. These productions demonstrate that with enormous budgets and talent, Hollywood still takes a risk—and occasionally loses big.

Westeros is more than just a world of dragons and direwolves—it’s also a chessboard of old families fighting a never-ending battle for survival, supremacy, and legacy. Behind each legendary moment of Game of Thrones lies a great house pulling the strings, wielding swords, or losing everything in a flash of glory. But who stood tallest at the end? Let’s count down the strongest houses, factoring in influence, power, resilience, and the impact they had on the fate of the Seven Kingdoms.

9. House Tully

The Tullys don’t often make the headlines, but they’ve always been steady players. Their motto—”Family, Duty, Honor”—says a lot about their priorities. They’re not flashy or power-hungry, but they’re dependable and fiercely loyal. Possessing Riverrun, they hold a strategic site in the Riverlands, but it’s also an area that’s often overrun or fought for. Catelyn Stark infuses their values into the northern plot, and Blackfish brings a bit of grime to their name. Sadly, after the Red Wedding, the house is devastated with great losses, and their presence dwindles. Even so, they are the epitome of the moral spine of Westeros—honorable in every way.

8. House Greyjoy

If chaos were a family crest, it’d likely fly over Pyke. The Greyjoys are all about the power of the sea, taking what they take and giving nothing in return. They have one of the finest fleets in Westeros, and their aggressive, no-excuses approach stands them out. Theon’s storyline adds emotional depth to what is otherwise a toughened exterior, and Euron adds madness and ambition (if not quite so much danger as fans had hoped). Their power is in lightning-fast raids and mastery of the sea, but they’ve never excelled at holding land or developing long-term authority. Yet, when their sails come over the horizon, folks notice.

7. House Arryn

Hidden high in the mountains at the Eyrie, House Arryn is literally and metaphorically above the rest. They’re one of the oldest noble houses, and their castle is almost impossible to take. Their early power is irrefutable—Jon Arryn’s death sets the whole book in motion, after all. But seclusion has its drawbacks. Under Lysa’s erratic leadership and subsequently the immature Robin, the Vale drops out of the limelight. All the same, from the safety of their high ridge, their knights ride in to rescue Jon Snow’s army in one of the show’s most critical battles, reminding the world that House Arryn still has steel coursing through its veins, even if they don’t often descend from their lofty location.

6. House Martell

There are few houses in Westeros as fiercely independent—no, as culturally unique—as the Martells of Dorne. Their motto—”Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken”—isn’t merely declarative. They fought the Targaryens longer than anybody else and came into the kingdom on their terms. Oberyn Martell is a blazing presence in King’s Landing, and his notorious fight with the Mountain is seared into everyone’s mind. Although their depiction in the show weakens after his death (looking at you, Sand Snakes), the Martells are still an emblem of honor, pride, and defiance. They march to their drum—and never, ever kneel.

5. House Tyrell

Some houses employ brute strength. The Tyrells? They employ charm, money, and timing. With Highgarden’s rich soil and bounteous harvests, they supply the biggest armies and feed the majority of Westeros. Lady Olenna is one of the show’s cleverest brains, cutting through court intrigue with nothing more than words and intelligence. Margaery dances around the royalty, almost gaining the throne with her marriages and diplomacy. The Tyrells are in the spotlight for a brief moment. But all that power is erased in one explosion, just like how even a flowering rose can be reduced to ashes. Still, they left their impact with poise, ambition, and gentle strength.

4. House Baratheon

The Baratheons erupted onto the world with rage, naming themselves kings after deposing the Targaryens. Storm’s End, their family seat, is a highly defensible fortress, and their reputation is secured through conflict. Robert’s rebellion revolutionized everything, but his reign was one of debauchery and decadence. Stannis introduced discipline and dour resolve, and Renly provided charisma and charm. Alas, the brothers’ internecine squabbles led to their downfall. By the finale, the formerly great household is broken and almost destroyed, with Gendry being the sole hope. Even as they fell, the Baratheons contributed more to the shaping of the realm than most.

3. House Lannister

No one plays the game like the Lannisters. With unparalleled riches from Casterly Rock and a reputation for always paying back their loans, they have the crown and the capital for much of the series. Tywin is a cold, calculating master of strategy. Jaime evolves from an arrogant swordsman to a tragic hero. Cersei’s rise to power is brutal, mesmerizing, and fueled by vengeance. And Tyrion? He’s the emotional anchor for so much of the narrative, offering wisdom in a world of fools. The Lannisters make enemies faster than allies, but their dominance—both politically and militarily—is hard to deny. Love them or loathe them, they dominated the whole saga.

2. House Targaryen

Dragons. Do we need to say more? The Targaryens had dominated Westeros for centuries by fire and terror. Although their house collapsed before the series starts, their shadow is gigantic. Daenerys, in exile and loneliness, fights her way back with dragons as her guardians and a vision of a new world. She frees cities, leads enormous armies, and becomes one of the most powerful women the kingdom has ever known. Her downfall is sorrowful and polarizing, but there’s no denying the burden she bore. The Targaryens are pure fantasy power: magical, royal, and awe-inspiring in equal proportions.

1. House Stark

From the cold North emerges the most stalwart, loved house of them all. The Starks are not showy, but they are resilient, honorable, and unbending in family loyalties. Ned is the moral compass, no matter the cost. Robb booms and crashes in a fire of youth and pride. Sansa becomes a political player.

Arya’s path is one of the most thrilling in the series. And what of Jon Snow? His tale is the backbone of the whole epic. They survive through betrayals, wars, and White Walkers. By the last episode, they’re the ones left standing—ruling the North, on the throne, and reminding all that in Westeros, winter is always coming, but the wolves endure.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine was not only a police sitcom set in New York—it was a study in balancing off-the-wall humor, brilliant writing, and unlooked-for emotional resonance. In eight seasons, the 99th Precinct treated us to high-risk heists, Die Hard homages, slow-burning romances, and a cold open hall of fame’s worth of jokes. But out of the 150+ episodes, there are a few that are the heartbeat and soul of the show—episodes that left us laughing hysterically, tearing up unexpectedly, and proudly yelling “Nine-Nine!” without a shred of shame. Let’s get into the 10 greatest episodes that made Brooklyn Nine-Nine brilliant.

10. “Lights Out” (Season 7, Episode 13)

New York City blacks out, and of course, chaos ensues—but even a blackout can’t slow down Amy’s baby. This is a masterclass in all the show does best: breakneck pacing, wisecracks nonstop, and actual heart. The team must pull together to rescue Jake and Amy as she gives birth, and it’s as hilarious as it is emotional. Jake’s panic, Amy’s strength, Rosa’s straight-shooting encouragement—it all mingles with a crazy and hospitable farewell to Season 7. The arrival of baby Mac is a moment of hope in the tempest.

9. “Cinco de Mayo” (Season 6, Episode 16)

The heist tradition is so hallowed, even the calendar can’t hold it. When Terry begins to spiral out of control about his lieutenant’s test, the crew moves their traditional Halloween robbery to May 5th. What ensues is a glorious mess of double-crosses, trap doors, and turns. For once, the limelight’s on Terry, and he does not fail. The episode is filled with absurd plans, surprising betrayals, and a series finale reveal that is both funny and touching. It’s the kind of mayhem only this crew can manage.

8. “The Fugitive” (Season 4, Episodes 11 & 12)

When a prison convoy crashes, the city is overrun with fugitives, and Jake and Amy make an instant wager out of it. These two episodes are a mini-action film, with chase scenes, jokes, and an unexpected sentimental moment from Jake when he lets Amy win. Their dynamic receives a subtle but strong kick here, and we get another dose of Doug Judy magic as well. The fun factor and character development balance in this one make this a double feature you’ll want to watch again.

7. “Beach House” (Season 2, Episode 12)

A beach vacation for detectives only goes off the rails when Jake invites Holt to participate. What could’ve been a weekend of relaxation turns into one awkward attempt after another to bond with their very formal captain. It’s peak ensemble energy, with unforgettable moments like “Five Drink Amy,” “Weekend Terry,” and Boyle being, well, Boyle. By the time Holt finally loosens up, the whole squad feels more connected than ever. It’s low-stakes, high-reward comedy at its finest.

6. “Greg and Larry” (Season 3, Episode 23)

Secrets are revealed, betrayal is at stake, and there’s a last-minute rescue mission for Captain Holt—this episode begins the Florida storyline in high gear. Amy and Boyle are left stranded to get out of the hospital, while Jake and Rosa scramble to halt an insider danger. It’s a turning point for the show, where the humor doesn’t halt, but the stakes begin to feel genuine. The tension never overtakes the humor, and everybody gets an opportunity to shine. It’s messy, emotional, and flowingly entertaining.

5. “The Honeypot” (Season 6, Episode 7)

When Holt believes that his assistant is flirting with him, things blow into a spy-worthy investigation that’s equal parts ridiculous and smart. What begins as a mild paranoia soon becomes a mission with double agents and gross messages. Holt’s deadpan humor blended with the team’s out-of-control theories makes this episode a comedic gem. Every joke hits, every moment counts, and it’s one of those episodes where the subplot becomes the entire show.

4. “Jake & Amy” (Season 5, Episode 22)

It wouldn’t be a true sitcom without a wedding episode, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine delivers big. Jake and Amy’s long-awaited big day doesn’t go as planned (because, of course, it doesn’t), but that’s part of the charm. Between Cheddar the dog eating the cake, toasts gone wrong, and an impromptu venue change, the whole thing feels chaotic but authentic. At the heart is a romance we’ve been rooting for since the pilot. They say “I do,” and we say “finally.”

3. “The Box” (Season 5, Episode 14)

Remember the gags for a moment—this is raw, unadorned tension. Jake and Holt spend the entire episode questioning a murder suspect in one room, and the payoff is compelling. The writing is razor-sharp, the acting is intense, and guest star Sterling K. Brown is nothing short of phenomenal. But this episode doesn’t need cutaways or subplots—just three people in a room and the psychological warfare between them. A rare but brilliant departure from the show’s usual rhythm.

2. “HalloVeen” (Season 5, Episode 4)

Just when you can’t imagine the Halloween heist gets any better, Jake turns the script around and asks Amy to marry him amid the pandemonium. It‘s one of the series’ greatest emotional rewards, tucked away within one of its most dysfunctional traditions. The episode is packed with surprises, backstabs, and impeccable combinations of humor and authenticity. And naturally, there’s that one scene where Jake drops to a knee. It’s surprising, elated, and well-deserved.

1. “The Last Day, Part II” (Season 8, Episode 10)

How do you say goodbye to a show like this? With one last, complicated heist. The series finale doesn’t simply check off fan service—it earns it. Each character receives their turn, from Rosa’s subdued choice regarding her future to Holt’s tearful reveal, and even Hitchcock and Scully enjoy a cliffhanger victory. There are flashbacks, callbacks, and plenty of last laughs. And when Jake walks out of the precinct for the last time, it’s hard not to feel it in your chest.

It’s the perfect sendoff for a squad that became family, not just to each other, but to all of us watching. Brooklyn Nine-Nine might be done, but its greatest episodes pack just the same punch. Revisiting for the jokes or hanging in there for the feels, these scenes show that the Nine-Nine legacy has nowhere to go but up.

If you find yourself scrolling through Tubi this June but unsure where to begin, we’ve got you covered. The service is loaded this month with everything from cult classics in comedies to Oscar-winning dramas and some surprise Tubi Originals you won’t see coming. Whatever your mood, whether offbeat, emotional, or nail-biting, suspenseful, here are 10 titles you need to check out before the month gets away.

10. Swiss Army Man

Hungry for something completely off the tracks (and strangely sentimental)? Swiss Army Man is about a castaway man who forms a bond with a farting corpse—don’t ask. Paul Dano and Daniel Radcliffe deliver surprising performances in this surreal survival story that’s half-comedy, half-existential drama. It’s ridiculous, gorgeous, and certainly one of the most unique films currently on Tubi.

9. Nightcrawler

If psychological thrillers are your cup of tea, don’t miss Nightcrawler. Jake Gyllenhaal is mesmerizing as Lou Bloom, a chillingly ambitious freelancer who captures late-night crime scenes for money. The further he descends into the depths of tabloid journalism, the darker—and more compelling—the tale gets. It’s a slick, unnerving study of ambition and moral corruption.

8. The Worst Person in the World

This award-winning Norwegian drama is a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt trapped in their twenties or thirties. The Worst Person in the World follows some pivotal years in Julie’s life, a woman trying to figure out relationships, career moves, and existential crisis. It’s raw, funny, and uncomfortably relatable—don’t be surprised if you find yourself thinking about your own life during the middle of a scene.

7. Day of Reckoning (Tubi Original)

In the mood for a gritty Western with contemporary style? Day of Reckoning is a Tubi Original that brings gunfighter drama and slow-burning tension slow burn to the forefront. A marshal and a lawman step over moral boundaries in their quest for justice, employing an outlaw’s wife as bait. Get ready for drama, shootouts, and moral ambiguity in this high-stakes showdown.

6. Set It Off

One of the greatest ’90s crime dramas, Set It Off still packs like a freight train. Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Vivica A. Fox, and Kimberly Elise play four women who resort to bank robbery when life gives them no other choice. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, action flick, and tour-de-force performances that are just as relevant today.

5. Independence Day

There’s no better way to prepare for July 4th than Will Smith punching aliens and dropping one-liners. Independence Day is blockbuster magic—cheesy in the best possible way, packed with big action, and held together by that unforgettable presidential speech. If you haven’t seen it in a while, now’s your opportunity to relive the good old days of ’90s sci-fi.

4. Malcolm X

Spike Lee’s epic biopic is a towering feat, supported by a magnetic Denzel Washington in one of his best performances. Malcolm X chronicles the life of the civil rights icon from tumultuous youth to compelling voice for reform, presenting a narrative that’s both intimate and politically engaging. A must-watch—timeless, powerful, and still strongly pertinent.

3. TKO (Tubi Original)

For something with heart and grit, check out TKO, another solid entry from Tubi’s growing lineup of originals. It centers on a former boxer trying to reconnect with his estranged sons—just as his oldest steps into the ring professionally. The stakes are emotional and physical, with fight scenes that hit hard and a redemption arc that gives it real weight.

2. Moonlight

This breathtaking, three-act coming-of-age drama is one of the richest, most emotionally resonant films of the last ten years. Moonlight is the tale of Chiron, a young Miami boy navigating identity, love, and trauma as he grows up. The imagery is beautiful, the storytelling intimate, and the acting unforgettable. If you haven’t watched it—much less if you have—it’s well worth a rewatch.

1. Get Out

Jordan Peele’s Get Out combines horror, social commentary, and scorching satire into a single unforgettable ride. Daniel Kaluuya plays a man who travels to meet his girlfriend’s family and discovers a sinister secret hiding behind their smiles. Clever, frightening, and consistently talked about, it’s a contemporary classic that redefined the genre—and it’s finally out to stream for free on Tubi.

Tubi’s June slate is full of treasures, ranging from brain-twisting indies to crowd-pleasing blockbusters and resonant originals. Whether you’re in the mood for deep feelings, giant thrills, or just something completely other, this month’s choices have something for every type of viewer. So grab the app, get cozy, and hit play—you’ve got some streaming ahead of you.

Few movie rivalries are as iconic—or as frightfully funny—as Alien and Predator. Over the years, they’ve frightened moviegoers, sparked cringeworthy fan arguments, and provided everything from genre-defining masterpieces to head-scratching bombs. Wondering which ones are worth revisiting? Buckle up. Here’s every Alien and Predator movie, ranked from bottom-of-the-barrel misfires to genuine sci-fi horror greatness.

15. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)

If the first monster crossover was dark, this sequel is opaque. Imagine an Alien-Predator crossbreed rampaging through a small town, but you can’t see what’s going on—you’re scowling so intensely, you don’t even remember to be frightened. The plot doesn’t add up, the characters disappear partway through the plot, and the lighting? Truly criminal. This one’s in the cinematic dark ages.

14. The Predator (2018)

Shane Black possessed Predator legend chops—so what was the problem? The film adds in political gaffes, half‑cooked background, and a monster mash that’s more yawn than terror. A talented cast of actors gets lost in a confusing, uneven narrative. Everyone predicted a slam dunk—what we got was a fumbled pass.

13. Alien: Covenant (2017)

This was meant to recreate the old Alien atmosphere. Visually, it’s stunning—and Michael Fassbender, as ever, is fascinating. But the script reads as two films battling for room. Characters are unmemorable, the reason escapes, and half the time, you can’t help but ask yourself why you even care.

12. Alien: Resurrection (1997)

Sigourney Weaver is back—sort of. It’s Ripley, but… alien DNA-infused. It’s gummy, weird, and packed with crazy notions that never quite come together. It’s a mix of bizarre comedy and sloppy sci-fi. The cast goes all out, the effects are outrageous, but the entire production just doesn’t quite click.

11. Alien vs. Predator (2004)

A long-awaited mash‑up that delivers on creature battles—but not much else. The plot makes absolutely no sense, the PG‑13 tone neutered the violence, and the humans do almost nothing. But if monsters fighting over primordial dominance in a pyramid is what you crave, you can’t help but be thrilled.

10. Prometheus (2012)

A visually stunning, ambitious movie that delves into the beginnings of mankind and the makers of the Xenomorphs. Big concepts are brought together with questionable choices, however, and characters respond in confounding manners. Does the mythology cohere? No. But David the android and the beautiful visuals provide it with something to discuss.

9. Alien: Romulus (2024)

A triumphant throwback with retro Alien atmosphere and practical effects. A crew of workers boards an abandoned ship—or at least they believe so—and mayhem erupts. Nostalgia is deep, yet the tale relies on references rather than surprises. Still, it captures the tone of the original far better than most sequels.

8. Predator: Killer of Killers (2025)

This cartoon-style anthology carries Predator battles through history—Vikings, samurai, and World War II. The presentation isn’t for all, but the action and creative settings bring fresh energy to the franchise. Some of the set pieces pay off so well, you would want it to be live-action. It’s new, it’s bold, and it brings the Predator mythology in unique means.

7. Predator 2 (1990)

Jungles traded in for city streets, this sequel turns up the grit with a hot, neon-drenched 90s L.A., Danny Glover adds intensity, the tone is campy, and Predator legend receives an added depth. It’s cheesy sometimes, but in the best possible way—acquired cult status and fans still quote it today.

6. Predators (2010)

Mercenary-cum-action adventure where a team of assassins is deposited on an alien kill zone. Several Predators, large egos, and constant action. It falls just short of the classic status of the original, but it pressures the mythology further and maintains the suspense intact. A good chapter.

5. Alien 3 (1992)

David Fincher’s introspective debut is brutal, bleak, and polarizing. Ripley crashes on a prison world—and everything that can go wrong does in a hurry. Renowned for killing off important characters early, it’s dark, relentless, and not what the fans were looking for. But for those who are willing to surf the nihilistic wave, it’s a daring work of genre film.

4. Prey (2022)

A masterful redo: Comanche warrior Naru vs. a Predator on the 1719 Great Plains. Bare-bones storytelling, razor-sharp pacing, and heart-stopping suspense. Amber Midthunder anchors it all with an outstanding performance. Raw, intelligent, and merciless, this one retooling the franchise’s tone—and did it flawlessly.

3. Predator (1987)

The movie that began it all. Arnold Schwarzenegger heads a commando operation deep in the jungle—and they’re stalked individually by the greatest alien hunter of them all. Creepy, muscular, intense, with iconic creature design. It’s gritty, iconic, and sets the tone for what Predator is.

2. Aliens (1986)

James Cameron amps up everything—explosions, action, and female badassery. Ripley returns and leads a squad of Marines against an alien hive. It’s equal parts horror and war film, with tense pacing and unforgettable moments. A sequel that didn’t just match the original—it became its legend.

1. Alien (1979)

The gold standard. Ridley Scott’s original is a work of atmosphere, horror, and design. The Nostromo crew is genuine, the Xenomorph nightmare fuel and every shadow has a terror behind it. It revolutionized sci-fi horror for good, not with looks or monsters, but with an atmosphere of suffocating dread you can feel in your lungs. Unbeatable.

And there you have it—15 moments of blood, horror, and alien fright ranked from downright skippable to must-see masterclass. If you’re binge-watching them all or just choosing one for film night, this list’s got you covered.

Let’s be honest—film franchises are Hollywood’s go-to cheat code. Yearly, they bring in billions, keep box offices aflutter, and inundate pop culture with memes, memorabilia, and cosplay. Some franchises, though, aren’t just hits—they’re money-printing machines that just keep rolling in no matter how many years pass. So, which film franchises have cracked the code? Here are the five highest-grossing film franchises of all time—and how they just keep shattering records (and bank accounts).

5. James Bond – The First Blockbuster Template

Before capes and lightsabers dominated the globe, there was a British agent in a tuxedo who always stole the scene. Ever since Dr. No hit theaters in 1962, James Bond has been the benchmark for fashionable action, suspenseful gadgets, and memorable theme songs.

Over 27 movies and eight actors (indeed, eight!), Bond has made approximately $7.9 billion globally. Skyfall alone accounted for a mind-boggling $1.1 billion, illustrating just how resilient the franchise remains. Even after sixty years, fans keep coming back for the suave spy who always has an ace up his sleeve—and a drink in his hand.

4. Spider-Man – The Wall-Crawler Who Always Climbeth the Charts

You don’t have to be a comic book buff to understand that Spider-Man is box office gold. With Tobey Maguire’s upside-down kiss and Tom Holland’s multiverse mayhem, Spidey has swung through a series of reboots—and never lost a beat. With a worldwide total of roughly $8.9 billion, Spider-Man is among the most bankable names in movies. The wild thing? Those rights are divided between Marvel Studios and Sony, and for some reason, that only served to make him more popular.

The 2021 blockbuster No Way Home almost reached $2 billion all by itself. Animated or live-action, Spider-Man consistently demonstrates that audiences cannot get enough of seeing Peter Parker try to juggle teen life and superhero responsibility.

3. The Wizarding World – Magic That Pays the Bills

Even if you’ve never actually read the books, I bet you’ve felt the allure of Hogwarts. The Harry Potter franchise—and its Fantastic Beasts spinoffs—have conjured an estimated $9.6 billion at the movies. But the magic lies in how it reaches far, far beyond the screen.

Theme park attractions, Broadway shows, video games, merchandise, name it—this franchise has made wand-waving an empire. The final Harry Potter movie alone raked in more than $1.3 billion, and with a streaming series in the works, it’s apparent that this charm isn’t fading any time soon.

2. Star Wars – A Galactic Gold Mine

Few franchises have transformed the film industry as much as Star Wars. What began in 1977 with a farm boy and a pair of droids grew into one of the most popular—and lucrative—universes in film. With $10.3 billion in box office returns on only 12 theatrical movies, Star Wars has demonstrated its long-term viability generation after generation. And that doesn’t count the movies.

Since Disney purchased Lucasfilm in 2012 for $4 billion, the franchise has increased in value exponentially, with streaming shows, toys, books, and even theme park areas. Whichever set of originals, prequels, or sequels you cut your teeth on, rest assured: the Force is still with this franchise in a big way.

1. Marvel Cinematic Universe – The Box Office Champion

No shock here—the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) reigns supreme. What started in 2008 with Iron Man became a connected epic running across 35+ movies (and more), raking in an astonishing $31.4 billion globally. And it’s not only the figures—it’s the cultural impact. From The Avengers to Endgame to streaming series and toys aplenty, Marvel has created a universe that fans inhabit throughout the year.

The Avengers films alone have earned more than $7.7 billion, with Endgame almost leading the all-time box office list. Disney’s acquisition of Marvel in 2009 was one of the greatest entertainment business decisions ever, turning a comic book publisher into the most profitable movie empire of all time.

It’s not luck, and it’s certainly not opening weekend buzz. What sets these mega-franchises apart from the pack is their power to keep fans engaged for the long term. In the estimation of production professionals, what fuels a “cash cow” franchise is a combination of steady quality, abiding fan devotion, and the capacity to branch out into all manner of merchandise, rides, and streaming. These are not merely movies—they’re brands, and they’ve perfected the technique of remaining current yet remaining comfortable. So long as the public remains engaged, the cash and the films won’t cease any time soon.

Let’s be honest—some of the most iconic cartoon characters aren’t the handsome heroes with rugged jaws or luscious locks. Nope. It’s the fat ones who waddle, bounce, or barrel through frames and somehow manage to steal the show. Whether they’re goofy, sweet, boisterous, or crazy, these plumper-than-average characters deliver laughs, heart, and irrepressible energy to the screen. Here’s the top 10 fattest cartoon characters who have made animation history just by existing—unapologetically hilarious, fiercely lovable, and always greater than life.

10. Heffer Wolfe (Rocko’s Modern Life)

Heffer is a goofy steer who was raised by wolves (sincerely), and he’s essentially the epitome of chaotic good. Always up for snacks, trouble, and ridiculous adventures, Heffer‘s big appetite is matched by his big personality. You never quite know what he’s going to do next—and that’s the point of him.

9. Mrs. Puff (SpongeBob SquarePants)

Mrs. Puff is a pufferfish who puffs up most of the time, most likely due to SpongeBob terrorizing her boating school. Her puffed-up version is cartoon gold, particularly when combined with that drained voice and perpetually regretful expression. Seriously, who wouldn’t go crazy teaching SpongeBob how to drive?

8. Pete (Disney)

Pete’s been around for ages—he was Mickey’s arch-nemesis long before Goofy came along. He’s done bad guys, fathers, bosses… always with that same massive gut and gruff voice. Love him or loathe him, Pete’s been a round-faced fixture of Disney’s cartoon universe since the black-and-white era.

7. Heimlich (A Bug’s Life)

Heimlich is the jolliest little caterpillar you’ll ever meet. Always munching, always dreaming of butterfly wings, he’s a scene-stealer in every way. There’s something irresistibly funny and sweet about a big green bug who just wants to flutter.

6. Doctor Eggman (Sonic the Hedgehog)

Big belly? Check. Bigger ego? Double check. Eggman is the type of baddie you can’t help but chuckle at, even as he attempts to blow everything up. His crazy mustache and bombastic round shape have become just as iconic as Sonic’s sneakers.

5. Po (Kung Fu Panda)

On the surface, Po is your typical lazy panda who enjoys naps and noodles. But beyond the fur is a Dragon Warrior with a very hard heart. It’s equal parts laughable and motivating to see him get by, train, and then become a hero.

4. Baymax (Big Hero 6)

Soft, spherical, and snuggable, Baymax is more about warmth, both literal and emotional. Conceived to care for people, this inflatable healthcare robot charmed us with subtle humor and wise quietude. He’s not boisterous, but he’s irreplaceable.

3. Shrek (Shrek)

Shrek upended the fairytale template. He is not a prince, is not good-looking (by conventional means), and is certainly not welcoming to guests. But his enormity, his snarkiness, and his swamp-residing spirit render him one of the greatest animated legends of all time.

2. Maui (Moana)

He’s big, bold, and full of himself—but Maui is also incredibly fun to watch. Covered in magical tattoos and bursting with personality, he’s got the charm of a showman and the body of a heavyweight champ. And let’s be honest: “You’re Welcome” still lives rent-free in our heads.

1. Cleveland Brown (Family Guy / The Cleveland Show)

Soft-spoken yet quick-witted, Cleveland’s slow drawl and easygoing nature provide the ultimate contrast to the craziness surrounding him. Whether sliding out of bathtubs or spouting deadpan one-liners, Cleveland shows that you don’t have to be boisterous to be funny—and memorable.

Let’s get real—there’s nothing better than diving into a fantastic sci-fi series. From mind-bending time travel loops, alien takeovers, or enigmatic dystopias, science fiction has a knack for drawing us into worlds that are just a little (or quite a bit) stranger than home. And if you’re a Netflix subscriber, you’ve got some solid choices to choose from. From action-packed space operas to mind-tripping psychological thrills, here are 10 of the top sci-fi TV series available on Netflix that should be on your watchlist.

10. Resident Alien

Begin on a lighthearted note with Resident Alien. Alan Tudyk stars as an alien who crash-lands on Earth and awkwardly integrates into a tiny Colorado town by pretending to be a doctor. He was initially designed to destroy all humanity, but after a series of wacky mishaps and chance friendships, things take on a life of their own. Tudyk’s unorthodox charm makes this secret alien yarn feel new and strangely sentimental. It’s science fiction with a dash of small-town humor, and it’s a hoot to see.

9. The Rain

Post-apocalyptic drama comes with a Scandi spin in The Rain, a Danish thriller about how a lethal virus, spread through rain, devastates the world. Two siblings venture out of their bunker to discover that the world has been completely remade and must struggle to survive in a brutal new world. The series is about how to adapt, learn to trust others, and maintain hope—even when your death is literally in the sky. Dark and brooding, it’s an engrossing watch for those who love pandemic survival tales.

8. Welcome to Eden

What starts as an invite to a luxurious island party quickly morphs into something far darker in Welcome to Eden. This Spanish-language series takes aim at influencer culture and cult dynamics, throwing its characters into a mysterious paradise that isn’t what it seems. With plenty of sci-fi undertones and suspenseful twists, this show keeps the tension high and the questions coming. You’ll be hooked trying to figure out what’s going on beneath the surface.

7. Love, Death & Robots

If variety is your thing, Love, Death & Robots is your sci-fi buffet. This animated anthology features standalone stories ranging from dark, dystopian futures to absurd, imaginative adventures. Each episode offers a new animation style, tone, and theme—sometimes wild, sometimes philosophical, always creative. With most episodes under 20 minutes, it’s dangerously easy to fall into a binge. Think of it as sci-fi tapas for your brain.

6. Lost in Space

This stylish reimagining of the original ’60s series tracks the Robinson family as they crash-land on a distant planet and battle against a variety of extraterrestrial threats. Lost in Space combines high-octane space action with emotional family drama to provide the tale with a heart at its center amidst all the high-tech excitement. Visually breathtaking and full of suspense, it’s a great choice for those who love great sci-fi remade for the new generation.

5. Alice in Borderland

Tokyo has never looked quite like this. In Alice in Borderland, a group of people finds themselves transported to a deserted version of the city, where survival depends on winning increasingly deadly games. Combining sci-fi elements with suspense and psychological drama, this Japanese series keeps the adrenaline pumping. It’s stylish, intense, and full of twists—and you’ll find yourself guessing who’ll survive right up until the end.

4. Dark

Get ready for a time travel tale that will not spoon-feed you. Dark, Germany’s brain-twisting mystery series, follows a small town that’s unraveling because of a wormhole that intersects various timelines. The story is complicated, the characters are richly developed, and the atmosphere is heavy with foreboding. If you’re a fan of cerebral sci-fi that won’t let you rest, Dark will pay you back with one of the best-plotted stories in the genre.

3. Maniac

In Maniac, two strangers—played brilliantly by Emma Stone and Jonah Hill—sign up for a drug trial promising to fix their mental health struggles. But instead of clarity, they’re plunged into a surreal, simulated world where fantasy, trauma, and sci-fi blur together. With its retro-future aesthetic, trippy visuals, and emotional core, this limited series is as unique as it is thought-provoking. You’ll laugh, cry, and possibly question reality by the end.

2. The Umbrella Academy

Not your average superhero show, The Umbrella Academy tells the story of seven superpowered siblings adopted by a mysterious billionaire. Reunited after his death, they quickly become entangled in a time-traveling, world-ending crisis (or two). The show mixes weird humor, emotional depth, and chaotic family dynamics into a compelling story with killer music and memorable characters. Even if you’re not a superhero fan, this one’s worth a shot.

1. 3 Body Problem

Coming on top is 3 Body Problem, Netflix’s ambitious adaptation of Liu Cixin’s legendary sci-fi novel. This epic series starts with a series of unexplained deaths and opens out into a global and interstellar mystery surrounding first contact with an alien civilization. Produced by the people behind Game of Thrones, it’s visually stunning and mentally engaging. The show is set across decades and dimensions and raises questions about science, survival, and humanity’s role in the world. It’s ambitious, intellectual, and just the tip of the iceberg—Netflix has already ordered more seasons.

Ready to Binge?

From space-faring families to extraterrestrial threats and reality-warping simulations, these 10 shows show Netflix is a treasure trove for sci-fi enthusiasts. Whether you like brain-teasing action, psychological suspense, or existential questions about the nature of reality, there’s something here to propel you into your next binge-watching frenzy. Streaming on—and don’t forget to question everything.

Zombies are slow (occasionally), but the genre? It just keeps rolling. Just when you thought you’d seen them all—tragic, terrifying, laugh-out-loud silly—another show shambles onto center stage with a new batch of apocalyptic mayhem. From thrilling survival tales to goofy undead capers, these 10 zombie TV shows demonstrate that the genre has plenty of bite left.

10. Daybreak

Imagine if Ferris Bueller got stuck in the zombie apocalypse, and you’ve got Daybreak. This short-lived Netflix series blends teen drama, fourth-wall-breaking humor, and a punk-rock attitude to the end of the world. Set in a post-apocalyptic California where the adults have turned into “ghoulies,” a ragtag group of teenagers takes charge. It’s zany, self-aware, and full of offbeat charm. It’s over too quickly, but viewers continue to discuss its crazy fervor and offbeat cast members—including a samurai, an anarchist 10-year-old, and a reluctant hero.

9. Black Summer

Ditch quippy survivors and comic relief—Black Summer reduces the zombie genre to its bare, nerve-shredding essentials. A spiritual cousin to Z Nation (without the camp), the show is all about speed, anarchy, and survival. Executed through fragmented storytelling, it plunges viewers into seconds of sheer terror as characters desperately fight to survive. If you like your apocalypse dark, high-velocity, and completely merciless, this is the one for you.

8. Fear the Walking Dead

Before the world became walker country, there was Fear the Walking Dead. This spin-off launches at the start of the outbreak, providing a more gradual burn that undergoes a radical transformation throughout its seasons. From domestic drama in LA to high-stakes survival situations in Mexico and more, the show repeatedly reinvents itself. Though it sometimes meanders into melodrama, its energy and character development make it must-see TV for Walking Dead enthusiasts eager to see where it all started.

7. Santa Clarita Diet

Suppose your mom suddenly developed a taste for human meat, but you still needed to make it to soccer practice and be on time for work? Meet Santa Clarita Diet, a dark comedy that blends zombies with suburban anarchy. Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant excel as a couple whose lives spin out of control when mom Sheila turns into a zombie. Half-absurd and half-sincere, this show somehow makes cannibalism endearing—and it’s a pity it didn’t last longer.

6. iZombie

Think Law & Order meets Warm Bodies, and you’re close to iZombie’s quirky brilliance. Rose McIver stars as Liv, a medical examiner who secretly snacks on corpses to stay alive—and gains flashes of the dead’s memories and personalities in the process. With that unexpected side effect, she becomes an unlikely crime-solver. It’s a clever mix of procedural, romance, and supernatural drama that manages to be surprisingly thoughtful under its campy exterior.

5. Kingdom

Against the epic backdrop of feudal Korea, Kingdom brings political drama, breathtaking visuals, and some of the most horrific zombies ever committed to film. When an unknown illness starts to break out in the royal court, the crown prince has to unravel a conspiracy while fighting off a zombie pandemic that threatens the entire kingdom. Spiky, suspenseful, and deeply imaginative, Kingdom reimagines what a zombie series can be—and it’s as gripping as it is horrifying.

4. Ash vs Evil Dead

Chainsaw arms? Check. One-liners? Double check. Grotesque monsters and gallons of blood? You bet. Ash vs Evil Dead picks up Sam Raimi’s cult classic horror-comedy franchise where it left off, with Bruce Campbell returning as the inviolably quotable Ash. With new friends (and foes), this show happily mixes slapstick gore and 1980s horror nostalgia into one of the campiest zombie-adjacent shows on TV. It’s a cult classic for a reason.

3. The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon (and Friends)

Just when it seemed like The Walking Dead had said all it could, a new wave of spin-offs reinvigorated the franchise. The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon sends everyone’s favorite crossbow-wielding loner across the ocean to France for a moody, mysterious adventure. Meanwhile, Dead City, The Ones Who Live, and other spin-offs spotlight Maggie, Negan, Rick, Michonne, and more. These series strip things back, offering tighter, character-focused stories that keep the undead drama fresh and compelling.

2. The Walking Dead

This is the series that opened the door wide for contemporary zombie TV. For 11 seasons, The Walking Dead brought us a sweeping story of survival, tragedy, and moral ruin. From Atlanta to Alexandria and all points in between, the show became an international phenomenon due to its emotional resonance and world-building. Though it had its highs and lows, there’s no denying its impact. It didn’t just make zombie TV mainstream—it remade it.

1. The Last of Us

Occasionally, a series arrives that transcends the genre. The Last of Us was one of them. Based on the award-winning video game, this HBO drama is not only about making it through a fungus-driven apocalypse—it’s about love, loss, and what it means to be human during the fall. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey give tour-de-force performances as Joel and Ellie, traversing a devastated America and developing an improbable partnership. Haunting, stunning, and emotionally shattering, it’s the new standard for zombie storytelling.

From tear-jerking epics to gory comedy, zombie television is now more diverse than ever. Laugh, cry, or sleep with the lights on, depending on your mood; there’s something for everyone on these shows that ensures there remains ample (after)life in the world of the undead.