The DC Universe is officially embarking on a bold new era, and there is much for fans to look forward to. At the helm of James Gunn and Peter Safran, DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters signals the beginning of a new era—one founded on interwoven stories, complex characters, and daring creative decisions. Whether you’re a die-hard DC fan or just love a good superhero epic, these 10 new movies and shows will redefine what the DCU can do.

1. Superman

DC’s new era begins with a familiar face—Superman. Written and directed by James Gunn, this version stars David Corenswet as a younger Clark Kent, alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. This isn’t another origin story, but instead a new story of Superman learning to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing in a world already full of heroes. As Peter Safran outlined, “He’s kindness in a world that thinks of kindness as old-fashioned.” The movie also stars Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner and Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, grounding it as the jumping-off point for the combined DC Universe.

2. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow

Adapted from the top-rated comic by Tom King, this darker, more realistic take on Supergirl sees House of the Dragon’s Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the film delves into Supergirl’s troubled childhood, surviving Krypton’s explosion in much more brutal circumstances than her cousin, Clark. Gunn says Superman was brought up with love and stability, while Kara witnessed her world crumbling around her, making for a much edgier take on the character than fans are familiar with.

3. The Brave and the Bold

Batman is back—but with his son this time. The Brave and the Bold brings Damian Wayne, Bruce Wayne’s assassin-trained offspring, into the fold in a story that takes its cue from Grant Morrison’s legendary comic run. Andy Muschietti, director of The Flash, will helm the movie and delve into the complicated father-son relationship while broadening the Bat-family in ways the big screen has yet to do. The script is finished, and production news is imminent.

4. Swamp Thing

James Mangold (Logan) will direct this dark, standalone origin story horror reimagining of one of DC’s most enigmatic characters. Swamp Thing will delve into the supernatural deeply, promising a darker take on one of DC’s most iconic characters. Mangold has spoken about the project as being a “simple, clean Gothic horror,” focusing more on atmosphere and character than dense mythology.

5. The Authority

A morally ambiguous team of heroes from the WildStorm universe is set to debut in the DCU. The Authority observes a group willing to do whatever it takes—even what’s wrong—to improve the world. Gunn compares their methods to the ideals of Jack Nicholson’s character in A Few Good Men. Although still in the early stages of development, this project has the potential to shake up traditional superhero morality in a big way.

6. Wonder Woman

There is a new Wonder Woman movie in the works, although this one will not include Gal Gadot. James Gunn has explained that the venture is completely unrelated to the upcoming Paradise Lost series, with a new approach to the character now in production. There has yet to be any casting announced.

7. Creature Commandos

This animated series launched the new DCU in 2024 with a crazy combination of monsters, clandestine missions, and anarchic black-ops action. An all-star voice cast—Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, joined by Frank Grillo, David Harbour, Maria Bakalova, and Alan Tudyk—stars in this series about an elite team of monstrous operatives who hope to execute high-risk government missions. Already greenlit for a second season, Creature Commandos launches the DCU’s animated slate with a strong and promising beginning.

8. Peacemaker Season 2

John Cena once again plays the crazy-but-lovable Peacemaker in the second season of the series, reprising the humor, heart, and explosive action that made Season 1 a ratings sensation. This time, Peacemaker has the additional personal stakes and emotional intensity as he is on the run from Rick Flag Sr. Fans can also look forward to crossovers from prominent DCU characters such as Hawkgirl and Green Lantern Guy Gardner, and implications of the growing multiverse—laying the ground for even greater developments throughout the DCU.

9. Lanterns

Envision True Detective, but in space. Lanterns tracks Green Lanterns John Stewart and Hal Jordan—Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler—tackling a mystery that has huge ramifications for the DCU. With a staff that includes Damon Lindelof, Tom King, and showrunner Chris Mundy, this earthy, character-centric series is poised to be a flagship of the new TV lineup.

10. Waller

Viola Davis returns as Amanda Waller in a spinoff following Peacemaker Season 2. With a lot of the Peacemaker cast, the series will explore deeper into Waller’s morally ambiguous leadership. Christal Henry (Watchmen) and Jeremy Carver (Doom Patrol) are developing the series, with writing still in progress.

Let’s be honest: the Marvel Cinematic Universe isn’t just a series of movies—it’s a cultural phenomenon that’s been shaping modern blockbusters for over 15 years. With 34 movies (and growing), a complex web of narratives, and more post-credits scenes than most of us can follow, viewing the MCU can be exhilarating and, at times, somewhat disorienting.

So here’s the question of the day: how to watch them all best? Whether you’re beginning anew or reliving your favorite heroes, which order you watch them can make all the difference to your experience. Here’s a summary of the top ways to watch the MCU.

1. Release Order: The Classic MCU Experience

If you prefer to watch the movies the way original fans did when they initially arrived in theaters, release order is the best option. You begin with the first Iron Man (2008) and continue the saga as it was released over the years, culminating in the most recent additions, such as Thunderbolts.

This is an excellent way to see how Marvel’s storytelling and visual effects improved with each iteration, and the post-credits scenes land just as they should, creating buzz for what’s to come. It’s also an excellent overview of how each of the characters fits into the expanding universe.

2. Chronological Order: The In-Universe Timeline

Feel like watching the story in the order that events took place within the MCU timeline? Watching chronologically is doing it by beginning in the 1940s with Captain America: The First Avenger, jumping over to the 90s with Captain Marvel, and continuing from there.

This comes in handy for snagging Easter eggs, small references, and foreshadowing glimpses that will otherwise go unnoticed. Keep in mind that some timeline weirdness will interfere—films such as Eternals and Ant-Man jar the pace somewhat. Just be aware that some timeline weirdness will get in the way—movies like Eternals and Ant-Man disrupt the flow a bit.

3. Highest-Rated Order: Saving the Best for Last

If you care less about chronology and more about quality, watch the movies according to their ratings. You’d begin with The Incredible Hulk (one of the lower-rated ones) and proceed upwards to fan favorites like Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame.

This watch order doesn’t adhere to the story chronologically, but it’s a great way to watch how the franchise got more powerful as time went on—or at least how fans reacted to each installment. It’s not the same type of ride, but a good one if you’d prefer to get the finish on a high note.

4. Essential Viewing: The Must-Watch MCU Films

Short on time or just need to catch up on the essentials? There’s a list of must-see MCU movies that provides you with the overall arc without getting bogged down in every supporting mission. Some of the highlights are Iron Man, The Avengers, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Civil War, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, Infinity War, Endgame, and Spider-Man: No Way Home. You miss some supporting characters and smaller plots, but you get all the big turning points and audience-pleasing moments. It’s an ideal jumping-on point for new viewers or a worthwhile rewatch course for occasional enthusiasts.

5. Streaming Advice: How to Watch and How to Steer Clear of Buffering Angst

The bulk of the MCU library is present on Disney+, so it’s the most accessible platform for a marathon. A couple of titles (particularly the Spider-Man movies) are omitted because of licensing, but the overwhelming majority are but a click away. If you’re settling in for a multi-movie binge, make sure your internet can handle the load—there’s nothing worse than buffering in the middle of a big battle scene.

No matter how you choose to view it, the MCU is an epic adventure—stuffed with iconic heroes, emotional rewards, and surprises you’ll still be chewing over days later. So pick your snacks, line up your list, and enjoy the Marvel journey your way. There’s no wrong route—just choose your point of entry and let the fun begin.

Before Iron Man launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe and made comic book movies a multi-billion-dollar franchise, Marvel’s heroes traveled a protracted and frequently fractured journey through Hollywood. From cult favorites to critical failures, these initial adaptations were ambitious, weird, and—in places—remarkably influential. Whether they were forgotten flops or foundation-setting hits, these are 11 pre-MCU Marvel movies that helped define the superhero movie landscape we have today.

1. Howard the Duck (1986)

Marvel’s initial splashy screen adventure starred—not the X-Men or Spider-Man—but a wise-cracking alien duck. Directed by Willard Huyck and produced by George Lucas, Howard the Duck was intended to adapt a quirky cult comic book. Instead, it surfaced as one of Hollywood’s greatest flops. From all the wayward animatronic effects to its wacky tone, never quite taking hold, the movie confused audiences. Nevertheless, its “so-bad-it s-good” cult status has placed it in pop culture lore. And come on—Lea Thompson’s rockstar ’80s fashion is etched in the memory.

2. The Punisher (1989)

Dolph Lundgren introduced Frank Castle to theaters in this low-budget, no-frills adaptation of The Punisher. Deprived of the character’s signature skull emblem and cursed, on the other hand, with a severely restricted release, the movie never found an audience. Still, for those old enough to have grown up watching ’80s action flicks, it is an interesting glimpse into how Hollywood used to see Marvel’s dark champions. 

3. Captain America (1990)

Years before Chris Evans grabbed the shield, this low-budget Captain America offered a far different Steve Rogers to fans. With a rubber outfit, an Italian Red Skull, and a straight-to-video destiny, this movie did not ring any bells with critics or audiences. Nonetheless, its sincerity (and inadvertent camp) make it a charm for devoted Marvel enthusiasts.

4. The Fantastic Four (1994)

Arguably the most mythic unreleased Marvel movie, Roger Corman’s Fantastic Four was produced only as a means to hold on to film rights. Never given an official release, bootlegs made the rounds for several years, making it a cult classic. Even with its shoestring budget and clunky effects, the movie’s surprisingly good heart—and a surprisingly good Doctor Doom—are on display. Its true legacy, however, lies in the back-story that came to be more famous than the movie itself.

5. Blade (1998)

With Blade, Marvel finally found cinematic gold. Wesley Snipes brought uncontestable charm and martial arts ability to the half-vampire vampire hunter role, starting an R-rated franchise that combined horror and superhero action with deadly style. Most fans didn’t even know Blade originated from a Marvel comic, but this dark, gory adventure showed superhero movies could be hip, gritty, and profitable.

6. X-Men (2000)

X-Men wasn’t only a success—it was a revolution. Bryan Singer’s take brought a new age of realistic, character-based superhero tales. With Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen as ideological opposites, Professor X and Magneto, and Hugh Jackman breaking out as Wolverine, the film combined spectacle and heart. It was the start of a genuine superhero renaissance in Hollywood.

7. Blade II (2002)

Under Guillermo del Toro’s direction, Blade II went full-on gothic horror and creative creature design. The sequel has Blade unwillingly allying himself with vampires to destroy a fresh, more lethal foe. Visually dynamic and action-heavy, it’s a highlight of both Del Toro’s career and early Marvel adaptations, bringing a dash of the filmmaker’s panache to the franchise. 

8. Spider-Man (2002)

Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man brought Marvel’s most beloved character to life in spectacular fashion. Tobey Maguire’s portrayal of Peter Parker struck a chord with audiences, while Willem Dafoe’s Green Goblin and J.K. Simmons’ unforgettable J. Jonah Jameson added iconic flair. As CBR notes, “Spider-Man quickly became a fan favorite and remained the standard for all other adaptations.” Its success redefined what superhero origin stories could be—and paved the way for future blockbusters.

9. Daredevil (2003)

Ben Affleck took over as Matt Murdock in this visually ambitious but tonally uneven adaptation. Daredevil toggled between brooding noir and comic book spectacle, with an all-star cast that included Jennifer Garner as Elektra and Colin Farrell as Bullseye. Although it didn’t quite connect, the movie brought the character to a broader audience, and co-starred Jon Favreau as Foggy Nelson, years ahead of the time he contributed to the launch of the MCU with Iron Man.

10. X2: X-Men United (2003)

A sequel that surpasses its original, X2 enriched the X-Men legend and broadened its character development. Delving into Wolverine’s enigmatic history and bringing the X-Men and their nemeses together to battle a mutual enemy, the film provided action, emotion, and strong themes of acceptance and identity. It also set early stages for the Dark Phoenix Saga, one of the series’ most ambitious storylines.

11. The Pre-MCU Marvel Movie Legacy

This period of Marvel films was inconsistent, surprising, and sometimes under-budgeted—but it was also bold. Pre-dating studio formula and billion-dollar opening weekend spectacles, these films pushed the boundaries of tone, genre, and narrative. Some were moral warnings, some surprise hits—but all of them, in some manner, contributed to making Marvel the cinematic behemoth it is today.

If you’ve ever wished you could jump between dimensions, time travel to the past, or take a break from the everyday grind, sci-fi television is your ideal escape. The genre is a playground for mind-bending ideas, thrilling mysteries, and bold storytelling that challenges what we think we know about reality. From space odysseys and dystopian futures to animated dreamscapes and time-traveling detectives, there’s a sci-fi show out there that’s ready to blow your mind. Here are 15 of the greatest sci-fi shows currently streaming—each offering a window into a bizarre, unforgettable alternate world. 

1. 3 Body Problem

When scientists start dying off in strange ways and the laws of physics begin to break down, there’s no doubt that something is seriously going on. Based on Liu Cixin’s award-winning novel The Three-Body Problem, this sprawling Netflix show combines brainy sci-fi with high-stakes drama. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Benedict Wong, Jess Hong, and Jovan Adepo, the series tracks a team of unlikely allies—and one tough-as-nails detective—banded together in an attempt to prevent an existential threat to humanity itself.

2. The Umbrella Academy

Superhero dysfunction has never been so much fun. Based on the comic by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá, this fashionable series follows a dysfunctional family of super-powered siblings as they reunite after their adoptive father’s death under mysterious circumstances. Complete with time travel, apocalypses, and family tension, each episode of The Umbrella Academy is a heart, humor, and chaos delivery system.

3. Bodies

Crime drama collides with time-travel mystery in Bodies, a suspenseful series in which four detectives from four time periods all find the same body in the same place. As they dig in, a deeper cover-up is revealed, connecting their timelines in surprising ways. Adapted from Si Spencer’s graphic novel, this genre-bending series is half detective tale, half sci-fi puzzle box.

4. Stranger Things

A nostalgic ode to ’80s pop culture with a paranormal spin, Stranger Things is an instant sci-fi classic. The show follows a group of small-town children battling supernatural evil—telekinetic girls and secret government facilities, all the way to the monstrous kingdom of the Upside Down. With its blend of nostalgia, suspense, and character development, the show is one of Netflix’s most popular shows. The last season debuts on November 26.

5. Black Mirror

Every episode of Black Mirror is an independent look into a dark future—the kind where technology develops quicker than ethics. Creator Charlie Brooker provides scathing commentary on surveillance, social media, artificial intelligence, and much more, and this anthology series is both intellectually stimulating and deeply uncomfortable. If you’re a fan of edgy speculative fiction, this one’s a must-watch.

6. Maniac

Emma Stone and Jonah Hill star in this hallucinatory, genre-bending miniseries about two strangers who sign up for a strange drug trial. Rather than curing their wounds, the trial deposits them in a dreamlike sequence of parallel worlds—from noir-inspired detective stories to fantasy sagas. Visually striking and emotionally charged, Maniac is a head trip that’s as surprising as it is affectionate. 

7. Dark

One of the greatest sci-fi shows ever produced, Dark is a German-language thriller that opens on a missing child and unfolds as a multigenerational epic of time travel, paradox, and existential horror. With its layered story and eerie atmosphere, this slow-burning mystery pays off for close viewers with some of the best sci-fi storytelling in years. 

8. Alice in Borderland

Awakening in a hauntingly deserted Tokyo, gamer Arisu is compelled into life-or-death survival games with other imprisoned players. This Japanese series combines psychological tension with high-octane action and complex character development. As Arisu and fellow survivor Usagi try to find answers, they reveal a twisted universe that’s as exciting as it is heartbreaking.

9. Lost in Space

In this polished re-imagining of the 1960s original, the Robinson family crash-lands on a remote planet during an attempt to colonize the cosmos in 2046. Every episode contains a balance of survival against the elements, sci-fi awe, and emotional family drama. With cinematic production values and an emotional heart, Lost in Space provides classic adventure and contemporary storytelling.

10. Love, Death & Robots

This animated anthology show is a feast of tones, styles, and ideas. From photorealistic horror to whimsical satire, the short stories include everything from love, death, and—yes—robots. Curated by Tim Miller and executive produced by David Fincher, this Emmy-winning series is great for quick, mind-bending sci-fi fixes.

11. Welcome to Eden

What begins as an opulent party on a far-flung island quickly descends into something far more sinister in Welcome to Eden. This Spanish thriller about a cohort of influencers drawn to an ultra-exclusive bash, which fast becomes a sci-fi nightmare of cults, spying, and undercover motives, is a chic, habit-forming ride with turns every five seconds.

12. Supergirl

For fans of their sci-fi on the more optimistic and sentimental side, Supergirl fits the bill. Tracking the path of Kara Zor-El—Superman’s cousin—in a quest to balance life as a journalist and a superhero, this show weaves intergalactic danger with down-to-earth emotional exploration. It’s an optimistic interpretation of the genre, with empowering ideals and action-packed stories to boot.

13. The Rain

When a lethal virus is unleashed by rain, Scandinavia is devastated. Two children explore a desolate, contaminated world for safety, meeting other survivors and learning what happened in the outbreak. The Rain is a chilling, post-apocalyptic thriller in which each raindrop is potentially fatal, and sunshine is as elusive as hope.

14. Resident Alien

Alan Tudyk adds humor and emotion to this quirky science fiction comedy. He stars as the alien who has come to Earth to destroy it, crash-lands in a tiny Colorado town, and assumes the identity of the town doctor. As he stumbles his way through human existence, he begins to question his mission. Resident Alien is sharp-tongued, hilarious, and unexpectedly moving—science fiction with a twist.

15. Lost

The pilot that started a million fan theories, Lost begins with an airplane crash and already descends into a rich world of mystery, mythology, and science fiction. With smoke monsters, time travel, and mysterious island mysteries, the show had viewers hooked for six seasons and is still the benchmark for sci-fi TV. Love it or loathe it, Lost changed television.

Whatever your mood is, philosophical navel-gazing, action-packed thrills, or heart-tugging drama—there’s something in today’s sci-fi for you. These 15 series are just a sampling of the genre’s limitless imagination—and all you’ll need to investigate them is a comfortable seat and a good Wi-Fi connection.

Superhero movies have evolved from cult fandom to international fixation—and let’s be honest, everybody’s got a favorite. But to put settling arguments over which cape-wearing heroes fly, Rotten Tomatoes is now the web’s answer scoreboard. Blending critic and audience scores, their lists provide a snapshot of what superhero tales have left the greatest impact. From animated firsts to cultural touchstones, these are the movies critics—and audiences—unanimously agree stand tall in a crowded category.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse – A Breakthrough in Animation and Superhero Storytelling

Number one on Rotten Tomatoes’ “300 Greatest Movies of All Time” superhero film list is Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which became a part of all-time great films. Boasting a nearly perfect 97% Tomatometer and 94% Audience Score, this 2018 animated treasure isn’t merely a work of visual genius—it’s a pioneering reboot of the Spider-Man mythology. Starring Miles Morales as the new web-slinger, the movie introduced audiences to a colorful multiverse teeming with Spider-People uniquely styled to bring their flavor to the tale. Its thumping soundtrack, emotional themes, and genre-bending animation drew in viewers and critics everywhere, demonstrating animation’s ability to bear the emotional and narrative heft of the most award-winning live-action films. That it is better than classics such as Citizen Kane and The Dark Knight speaks volumes about its influence.

Black Panther – The MCU’s Most Critically Praised Film

When Black Panther hit theaters in 2018, it didn’t merely build upon the Marvel Cinematic Universe—it remade it. With a 96% critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it is the highest-rated film in the entire MCU. Director Ryan Coogler created a rich, Afrofuturist universe in Wakanda, marrying political intrigue, cultural commentary, and superhero spectacle. Chadwick Boseman imbued regal fortitude and quiet vulnerability with King T’Challa, while Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger was one of Marvel’s most complex and emotionally satisfying villains. Bigger than a blockbuster, Black Panther became a cultural phenomenon, receiving critical praise and inspiring global audiences.

Logan – A Raw and Riveting Goodbye

Logan is not your average superhero farewell. James Mangold’s 2017 movie was Hugh Jackman’s last stint as Wolverine, and it accomplished that with emotional heft rarely found in comic book fare. With a 93% critics’ and 90% audience score, Logan is the highest-rated X-Men movie from 20th Century Fox on Rotten Tomatoes, coming in at #228. With its R-rated intensity, somber mood, and bare-bones storytelling, the movie tackles aging, remorse, and self-sacrifice in a manner that raised the entire franchise. It’s an indescribably sad but intensely fulfilling goodbye to one of the most iconic characters in the Marvel universe.

Avengers: Endgame – The Epic Conclusion

With its 94% Rotten Tomatoes rating, Avengers: Endgame did justice to the incredible hype created over ten years of interconnected storytelling. As the climax of the Infinity Saga, the movie featured almost every prominent MCU character for a climactic battle that was equal parts action, comedy, and emotion. From the “on your left” portals moment to Tony Stark’s sacrificial act, Endgame was full of signature moments that paid off for long-term fans without sacrificing emotional resonance.

Iron Man – The One That Started It All

Iron Man was the pre-MCU cinematic empire that preceded it. The 2008 film, with a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score, is Marvel’s most critically acclaimed entry. Robert Downey Jr.’s charismatic performance as Tony Stark rewrote the superhero template by balancing arrogance, charm, and vulnerability. Directed by Jon Favreau, the grounded narrative and slick rhythm established the blueprint for the rest of the franchise—evidence that even a B-list character could launch a worldwide phenomenon.

Thor: Ragnarok – A Daring Reimagining of the Thunder God

Thor: Ragnarok revitalized a series that was starting to feel too formulaic. Directed by Taika Waititi, the film adopted a vibrant, quirky look and leaned into off-center humor without sacrificing its heart. With a 93% Rotten Tomatoes rating, it was a tonal departure for Thor that saw Chris Hemsworth get to flex his comedic muscles for the first time and introduce breakout characters like Valkyrie. Aside from the guffaws and showmanship, the movie touched on more mature themes of identity, personal development, and the weight of legacy, reminding everyone that even mythological gods can change.

Spider-Man: No Way Home – Nostalgia Meets Growth

Reuniting three generations of Spider-Men and a slew of familiar foes, Spider-Man: No Way Home provided fan service with soul. Topping out at 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie balanced large multiversal action with emotional resonance, particularly in its handling of Tom Holland’s Peter Parker. A gimmick waiting to happen, what might have been was instead a serious examination of responsibility, loss, and the price of heroism. For new and old fans, it was a movie experience that honored Spider-Man’s heritage while taking the character boldly in potent new directions. Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire’s cameos weren’t gimmicks—they brought depth and emotional value, making the film a love letter to Spidey fans of all ages.

What These Movies Have in Common

While each of these superhero standouts offers something unique—be it visual style, emotional depth, or cultural impact—they’re all united by a willingness to break the mold. Into the Spider-Verse redefined what animation could do for the genre. Black Panther reshaped the cultural conversation around superheroes. Logan brought raw humanity to a mutant icon. And Marvel’s best team-ups managed to balance blockbuster spectacle with deeply personal moments.

Looking Ahead: New Challengers Rise

The superhero genre continues to go from strength to strength. Deadpool & Wolverine have already caused a splash, and Fantastic Four and Avengers: Doomsday are due shortly, so the lists are going to change. But for the time being, these Rotten Tomatoes-verified gems are the standard bearer for comic book films—each a reminder of the power of superhero films to inspire, to delight, and sometimes to change the way we look at the world.

Horror enthusiasts are all too familiar with the drill: an old franchise greenlights a sequel or reboot, hype is generated, anticipation builds—and then the eventual film fails to deliver. Whether they’re revisiting masked murderers or haunted mansions, some horror sequels and reboots disappoint by failing to live up to the unsettling genius that made the originals legends. Let’s take a look at some of the worst disappointing horror movie sequels and reboots that hyped chills but left fans cold.

1. Halloween Kills (2021)

Following the success of the 2018 Halloween reboot for reinventing the franchise to its basics, Halloween Kills had a golden chance to continue the momentum. It faltered instead. Jamie Lee Curtis’s Laurie Strode sits out most of the movie in a hospital bed, and the narrative gets into sloppy waters with gratuitous violence and a muddled message on mob hysteria. Although it cranked up the bloodshed, the movie didn’t have the restraint and suspense that made the original work so well, resulting in this chapter feeling like two steps forward and one back. 

2. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)

The initial two Conjuring movies were distinguished by their slow-build frights and compact narratives. The third installment, though, veers into courtroom thriller and supernatural conspiracy, abandoning the close, haunted-house horror that characterized the franchise. Even with Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga’s still-present chemistry playing the Warrens, the movie indulges too much in franchise building and not enough in fright, making what could have been a chilling case into an overblown spectacle.

3. Candyman (2021)

Produced by Jordan Peele and directed by Nia DaCosta, the Candyman reboot had a serious amount of potential. While the look was stunning and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II gave a great lead performance, the film’s thematic approach felt confused. The reboot sacrificed some of the eerie vagueness of the original for a more literal take, missing some of the psychological richness that made the 1992 film so unsettling. Stylish and socially aware, certainly—but the scares and longevity didn’t quite live up to legend.

4. Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)

Spiral sought to reboot the Saw franchise as a hard-boiled crime thriller, with Chris Rock taking over in the lead and an emphasis on police corruption. The concept was original, but it didn’t quite live up. The traps were dialed back, the twist was way too telegraphed, and the tonal fluctuations—particularly between Rock’s comedic take and the rest of the movie’s dark tone—came across as dissonant. Rather than reviving the franchise with a bang, Spiral was a half-measure that left newcomers and fans alike disappointed. 

5. Paranormal Activity: Next of Kin (2021)

Years of quiet, and Paranormal Activity was back with a new tale, new people, and an entirely new structure. Alas, Next of Kin abandoned the found-footage approach that made the franchise cult and settled on something more conventional with mockumentary touches. Although it tried to blend supernatural mystery with folk horror, the outcome was a bland, atmosphere-sparse entry that didn’t merit reviving the franchise.

6. There’s Someone Inside Your House (2021)

Netflix’s take on Stephanie Perkins’ book had all the ingredients of a contemporary teen slasher murderer, secret pasts, social media plot twists, but none of the bite to make it truly stand out. Although the setup was compelling, the killings were soft, the pacing erratic, and the mystery too on-the-nose. For all its strong young cast, the movie couldn’t seem to find a consistent tone, settling instead as a disappointment rather than a genre rebuke.

7. Saw: The Final Chapter (2010)

Promised as the climax of the gore-soaked Saw series, The Final Chapter promised resolution—and delivered instead a muddled mess. The 3D gimmick was distracting rather than immersive, and the storytelling was weighed down by convoluted continuity and an onslaught of poorly handled twists. It wasn’t as creatively inventive as some of the earlier installments and felt instead like a tired exercise in keeping the franchise alive. It was a low point for a series that had once been innovative.

8. What Lies Below (2020)

This low-budget indie horror made waves online for its bizarre final twist—but that’s about all it had going for it. The premise—a teenager suspects her mother’s new boyfriend is something. Not human—had cult potential. But the film’s slow pacing, lackluster performances, and overly serious tone kept it from embracing the kind of camp that might have saved it. The wild ending is memorable, sure, but the road to get there isn’t worth the trip.

Not all horror reboots or sequels must top the original, but at the very least, itheymust pay respect to what made the tale good enough to retell in the first place. Whether by intelligent scares, interesting characters, or creative storytelling, the standard for horror has never been higher. As the audience becomes wiser, the filmmakers have the task of doing more than merely remaking scares. Here’s hoping the next generation of horror revivals takes note of these failures—and delivers on the chilling scares that fans came for.

Some movies dazzle with spectacle. Others, like Amélie, tiptoe into your heart—and remain there. Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s 2001 gem, featuring the glowing Audrey Tautou, is a whimsical romance that doesn’t depend on sweeping romance or grand drama. Rather, it discovers its magic in the mundane and makes everyday life into something remarkable.

From the initial moments—a spoon breaking through caramelized crème brûlée, glasses raised on a bobbing tablecloth—Amélie invites us into a universe of tiny, ideal delights. In a stylized Paris bathed in golden reds, golds, and greens, the film captures a picture of the city that is at once nostalgic and surreal. It’s neither Paris of postcards nor gritty realism, but a poetic, near-fantastical one that exists entirely within its heroine’s inner realm.

Amélie Poulain, the introverted and creative young woman at the center of the film, is both observer and orchestrator of happiness. She observes the world around her from afar—until she takes matters into her own hands one day and quietly inserts herself into the lives of others, sowing happiness through anonymous acts of kindness. Her life might be small, but her heart is big, and in the course of her journey, the movie extols the quiet strength of empathy and connection.

What endures about Amélie is its profound love for life’s neglected details. Each shot is packed with color, movement, and significance. The cinematic style of the film isn’t merely superficial—rather, it expresses a profound worldview, one that refuses to accept that ugliness can rule out beauty in even the most mundane aspects of life, provided we pause to observe.

Critics and viewers alike sat up and took notice. Made on a low budget, Amélie was a global phenomenon, grossing more than $174 million worldwide and garnering five Academy Award nominations, including Best Foreign Language Film and Best Original Screenplay.

On Letterboxd, the movie sits at a 4.2 out of 5 rating, with close to 200,000 five-star ratings. Fans call it cinematic comfort food—sweet, uplifting, and infinitely re-watchable. One critic calls it “a whimsical adventure & a life-changing drama,” and another calls it “one of the sweetest, softest, most optimistic movies” they’ve ever viewed. It’s the type of movie people go back to when they want to feel better about the world—and themselves.

And it’s not only audiences that’ve been affected. Amélie’s aesthetic and narrative have been seen in everything from Bryan Fuller’s Pushing Daisies to aspects of John Wick: Chapter 4, in which director Chad Stahelski referenced the film’s Sacré-Cœur scenes as inspiration. It’s even a cultural touchstone for dreamy atmospheres, introspective people, and narratives filled with quiet optimism.

Some have criticized the film’s heroine as exemplifying the “manic pixie dream girl” trope—a weird, alienated woman who makes others better and remains emotionally inaccessible.

That resonance is created by something basic and human: the desire for happiness, the quest for significance in mundane lives, and the hope that even the smallest gesture of kindness can make a difference. As one Letterboxd critic comments, Amélie contains “the magical power to make you forget your woes” for a short while and leave you radiating a quiet sense of wonder.

In a world that is too big and too quick and too overwhelming too often, Amélie is a soft reminder to take one’s time, to pay attention, and to please be kind. It is a reminder that happiness is seldom loud—and sometimes, the best stories are the ones told quietly through acts of generosity, observed through the gaze of an optimist.

There’s something endlessly compelling about true crime and con artist tales—whether it’s the thrill of watching real-life masterminds pull off the unthinkable, or the catharsis of seeing justice finally catch up to them. If you’re someone who can’t resist a wild scam, an audacious heist, or a story so bizarre it sounds made up, these films and series are must-sees. Here are 13 of the wildest, most intriguing, and most memorable true crime tales that came to life on television.

1. Inventing Anna

Meet Anna Delvey—the imposter German heiress who swindled New York’s elite into financing her life of luxury. Conceived by Shonda Rhimes, the series tracks a reporter untangling Delvey’s glossy, deceitful web. Was she an astute social climber or globe-trotting con artist? Whatever, her tale is binge gold.

2. The Tinder Swindler

Simon Leviev didn’t ghost date on purpose. He left them up to their necks in debt. Impersonating the scion of a diamond empire, he spun a fantasy of luxury that conned women out of millions. This addictive documentary reveals just how far a con artist will go when love and deception meet.

3. Dirty John

Swipe right at your own risk. From the hit podcast, Dirty John is the shocking true story of Debra Newell and her too-good-to-be-true relationship with John Meehan—a man whose charm is a cover for a very dark past. Love becomes a psychological battleground in this cautionary tale.

4. FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened

Billy McFarland sold the world a dream: an island luxury music festival with villas, models, and musical legends. What guests received was disaster relief tents, and no bands to be found. This documentary is darkly comedic and jaw-dropping as it documents the rise and fall of influencer-fueled fantasy.

5. Lords of Scam

In this French documentary, an assortment of con men take advantage of the European carbon tax system for several hundred million dollars. Greed turns inward as allegiances fall apart and betrayal takes center stage. It’s a high-stakes swindle with all the drama of a crime thriller—except it’s all true.

6. The Puppet Master: Hunting the Ultimate Conman

Robert Hendy-Freegard feigned being an MI5 agent for years, conning and isolating victims and draining them financially. This gripping series documents his lengthy regime of deception and the desperate search to capture him before another life is destroyed.

7. Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal

When it was exposed that celebrities and rich elites were paying their children’s way into prestigious universities, America was fixated. Narrated through recreations and actual transcripts, this docudrama dissects the outrageous plot behind the largest education scandal in American history.

8. This Is a Robbery: The World’s Biggest Art Heist

Two burglars dressed as Boston police officers executed the biggest art heist in contemporary history, stealing masterworks worth half a billion dollars. The case has never been solved, decades later. This four-part documentary series explores the mystery and the world of art’s most puzzling cold case.

9. Woman of the Hour

Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut recounts the chilling tale of serial killer Rodney Alcala, who wooed his way onto The Dating Game in the 70s—during the middle of his murder spree. The movie plays the juxtaposition of Alcala’s atrocities against the creepy sameness of TV’s prime-time nicely. 

10. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

Zac Efron loses his clean-cut image to portray Ted Bundy, whose charm kept him suspicion-free for years. Focused through the eyes of his longtime girlfriend, the movie examines how easily evil may masquerade as friendly—and how denial can be its partner in crime.

11. The Good Nurse

Jessica Chastain and Eddie Redmayne give riveting performances in this dramatization of nurse Charles Cullen’s actual killing spree. When colleagues suspect something is amiss, the tale is a gripping one of moral courage and institutional failure.

12. Lost Girls

Amy Ryan plays Mari Gilbert, a mother whose tenacious search for her missing daughter highlights a series of unsolved murders and institutional callousness. It’s a powerful, haunting story about grief, justice, and the voices too often ignored. 

13. Sins of Our Mother

When Lori Vallow’s kids vanished, the tale quickly turned into a tabloid-happy drama about doomsday cults, sinister deaths, and eerie beliefs. This docu-series unwraps the layers of a contemporary tragedy that still leaves viewers in shock.

If you enjoy tales that teeter on the edge of unbelievable and too real, these true crime movies and TV shows are full of tension, tragedy, and reality. Each is a gripping examination of how lies, greed, and desperation can transform lives—and sometimes systems. Just be cautioned: once you begin, it’s difficult to avert your eyes.