Paramount+ is not always the most hyped streaming platform, but it has really become a nice secret to the fans of TV series. In addition to the hottest original content, the service has a repertoire that satisfies anyone’s need: comedy, drama, action, nostalgia, and even a bit of quirk. If you are out of shows to watch and need some fresh recommendations, these are the top 10 shows available for streaming on Paramount+ right now, going from number 10 to the most indispensable.

10. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

This is today’s Star Trek. Strange New Worlds has episodic adventures with old Trek feeling mixed in with fresh, entertaining storytelling. Anson Mount’s Captain Pike is charming and affable, and the show’s openness to trying new things means you’re watching a horror episode one week, a musical or a comedy the next. You don’t need to know Trek history to enjoy it, just get on in.

9. Tulsa King

Sylvester Stallone plays a New York mobster shipped off to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the results are just as entertaining as you’d expect. Taylor Sheridan’s knack for fish-out-of-water drama meets sharp comedy here, and Stallone brings both muscle and humor. With a colorful supporting cast, Tulsa King is a crime drama that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

8. Evil

In the manner of a laughable and supernatural horror, the plot of Evil is uncomparably the most exquisite of the television shows on Paramount+. The series chronicles the bizarre escapades of a contractor, a self-training priest, and a psychologist who together delve into mysticism and manage to incorporate scaring, logical reasoning, and witty jokes simultaneously. Also, let us not forget to mention the great job of Michael Emerson as one of TV’s most compelling antagonists.

7. 1923

Definitely, if you adore watching Yellowstone, this prequel is a must-have on your watch list. Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren give life to 1923, which depicts the Dutton household’s trials and tribulations in the time of Prohibition, drought, and the approaching Great Depression. With its beautiful surroundings and raw frontier drama, it is the most potent spin-off from Yellowstone.

6. The Good Fight

The Good Fight is witty, fashionable, and daring, mixing political satire with courtroom drama. In the cast of the serial as Diane Lockhart, the smart and resourceful lawyer trying to make sense of daily America’s strife, is none other than Christine Baranski. The legal drama will appeal to sharp writers and socially minded viewers who want to be challenged, set scene-wise.

5. Halo

Recreating a popular video game series on the big screen is nothing less than a gamble, but Halo manages this on a grand cinematic scale. The nuances of Master Chief as portrayed by Pablo Schreiber, the entertainment, and world-building are all on par, not just for hardcore gamers but also for the problem-free fans of science fiction. The second season was more awesome than the first, hence it is recommended to binge it if you are really into space wars, but have a soft spot for this.

4. Avatar: The Last Airbender

The initial version is still superior. Avatar: The Last Airbender is basically a fantasy adventure series that narrates Aang’s amazing journey, a boy who is fated to learn all four elemental powers and bring harmony back to the world ravaged by war. It is equally exciting, infuriating, and amusing, and even after the tenth watch, it looks spotless just like the first time.

3. Survivor

After many years, Survivor basically stands as the most prestigious reality competition show. The hostess, Jeff Probst, is in control of the unbelievably epic drama in which the contestants are fighting against nature, bribing each other with emotional bonds, and tricking each other to win a million-dollar prize. Every season is jam-packed with inventions, treachery, and characters impossible to forget. Choose any, and you won’t be able to stop watching it.

2. Cheers

Step into the Boston tavern where they know your name. Cheers is one of the greatest sitcoms ever to be produced, boasting an all-star ensemble of Ted Danson, Shelley Long, and Kelsey Grammer. With smart writing, heart, and more than two dozen Emmy wins, it’s TV comfort food in its purest form.

1. SpongeBob SquarePants

Number One on the list? It is none other than SpongeBob SquarePants. That underwater series has been amusing audiences for more than twenty years with its mix of ridiculous humor and sincerity. Kids like it, parents can take it, and it is still a very memorable running gag. In a nutshell: SpongeBob is forever.

Paramount+ has surprisingly put together one of the most diverse TV catalogs in the world. You might be looking for a high-end drama, a comfort sitcom from the past, or just some cartoon madness; there is something for every taste here. Forget your watchlist-these shows deserve to be ranked.

Disney may seem like pure fantasy, but some of the magic is stolen from the real world. From glittering heroines to unforgettable villains, many classic characters were inspired by celebrities, stage stars, and even pop icons. Here’s a countdown of ten cartoon classics that owe their appearance or attitude to real-world inspirations.

10. The Mad Hatter – Ed Wynn

Alice in Wonderland’s Mad Hatter is daffy, zany, and hyperactive, and that’s not an accident. He was actually based on comedian Ed Wynn, who not only did his voice but also influenced his mannerisms. Animators taped Wynn during recording sessions and literally translated his idiosyncrasies, facial expressions, and improvisations directly into the character.

9. Dr. Facilier – Michael Jackson (with a dash of Usher)

The charming villain of The Princess and the Frog strides as if he were born to perform. That is because animators heavily drew from Michael Jackson’s distinctive flair, his lean physique, angular dance moves, and stage presence. Usher also had an influence on them, providing Facilier with a New Orleans beat that makes him one of Disney’s coolest villains.

8. Cruella de Vil – Tallulah Bankhead

Cruella’s frenetic glamour wasn’t conjured up out of thin air. The 101 Dalmatians animators researched Tallulah Bankhead, an actress known for her husky voice and flamboyant personality. Cruella’s smoky style and untamed flair are a virtual duplicate of Tallulah’s sans the can’t-live-with-’em attitude towards animals.

7. Ursula – Divine (with Gloria Swanson’s panache)

Disney had trouble with the design of Ursula until they consulted Divine, the iconic drag queen. Her over-the-top makeup and over-the-top persona influenced the sea witch we recognize today. To capture her movement, animators also drew inspiration from Gloria Swanson’s melodramatic movement in Sunset Boulevard. This yields a villain who’s both frightening and fabulous.

6. Jessica Rabbit – Rita Hayworth (with a sprinkle of Veronica Lake and Lauren Bacall)

Jessica Rabbit’s classic sex appeal in Who Framed Roger Rabbit owed a great debt to Rita Hayworth’s Old Hollywood glamour. Veronica Lake’s signature peek-a-boo hair and Lauren Bacall’s icily confident attitude contributed additional layers, making Jessica the quintessential animated femme fatale. 

5. The Vultures (The Jungle Book) – The Beatles

Those mop-top vultures in The Jungle Book were intended as a cheeky homage to The Beatles. Disney went so far as to think about having the band voice the characters and croon a Beatles-esque song, but John Lennon allegedly vetoed the idea. Nevertheless, their appearance and accents are unmistakably Liverpudlian.

4. Princess Tiana – Anika Noni Rose

In contrast to most of the characters on this roster, Princess Tiana was officially based on her own voice performer, Anika Noni Rose. Her dimples were caught on camera, her reactions were duplicated, and Tiana was even made left-handed like Anika. It’s a special occurrence where the actress and the princess are nearly identical.

3. Maleficent & Lady Tremaine – Eleanor Audley

Eleanor Audley didn’t simply voice Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty) and Lady Tremaine (Cinderella); she gave her whole presence. Disney shot her acting out the roles so animators could replicate her moves and expressions. Her royal nastiness became the template for two of Disney’s scariest villains.

2. Aladdin – Tom Cruise

Aladdin’s initial designs were boyish and playful, but animators concluded he required more star quality. They borrowed from Tom Cruise for his self-assured grin and dramatic features. Overnight, the street rat possessed movie-star charm to complement his escapades.

1. Ariel – Alyssa Milano

The Little Mermaid’s Ariel owes her wide-eyed innocence and cuteness to a young Alyssa Milano. At the time, Milano was unaware that she was being used as a reference point. Years later, she confessed she was surprised, but once you spot the resemblance, it is difficult to ignore.

Disney movies might be set in magical castles and distant kingdoms, but the inspiration tends to come from mundane muses. The next time you watch these old favorites, you might just catch a familiar face lurking behind the animation.

Let’s not kid ourselves: WWII spy flicks represent the very essence of suspense, intrigue, and moral ambiguity that keeps the history of the past so fascinatingly captivating. The whole story becomes wrapped in the world of spies in their trench coats, their passwords and codes, double agents who are still picking which side their loyalty is, and just everything else that the genre can bring. However, not all of these types of films are as great as they seem; some are amongst the best, and a few should have been kept in the safe. Here is a list of WWII spy films, ranging from the most forgettable to the most watchable ones.

10. A Call to Spy (2020)

This pretty much narrates the story of Virginia Hall, the American spy with a wooden leg, who secretly helped the Allies during WWII. It was a film that aimed high in concept but was mediocre execution-wise. The tension hits you only once or twice, and the villain is so stereotypical that you can’t help but think of him as cardboard. It’s a nice historical reconstruction, but if you want real suspense, this is not the right place.

9. The Catcher Was a Spy (2018)

Paul Rudd assumed the role of Moe Berg, the baseball player turned OSS spook. The guy is likable but seems a bit too relaxed to be believable in the espionage high-wire world. The movie is rather a slow, episodic historical biopic, acting more like a midday theater flick than a spy thriller that could keep you engrossed and watching it very attentively.

8. Allied (2016)

Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard are the spies collecting the most dangerous weapon mankind has ever known: love and passion amid all the lies and secrets. There is a lot of love and Casablanca-like glamour in this production during the first act, but the story just gives the sinking aftermath. Marion’s character experiences a sudden change of tone, and the main plot twist does not really provide the suspense that is expected. Trendy, but not imperative.

7. Operation Mincemeat (2022)

This film, though based on a real British deception, is more about the art of lying in wartime than the actual deception. For better or worse, its 2022 adaptation adds romance and character growth where the original 1956 version had none, thus taking away from the main operation. Still, it’s an okay watch for those who like to ponder over secret service plots.

6. Charlotte Gray (2001)

Spy secretly in the middle of enemy lines, destroying by sabotage, and at the same time, taking care of Jewish children, is a very promising plot. Besides that, Michael Gambon is great, and the filming is beautiful, but as the film gets off with its not-so-spy-action storyline, it simply loses its way until the end. Despite its beauty, the film makes a forgettable impression.

5. Shining Through (1992)

Actor Melanie Griffith as a spy who gives up her job and turns into a secretary, and Michael Douglas plays her supervisor, which only sounds like the beginning of an interesting tale, but as the story unfolds, the plot and the actors’ relationship go in the wrong direction. Alongside its shine, the movie is weighed down by its flaws and by Liam Neeson’s supporting role.

4. Triple Cross (1966)

Christopher Plummer portrays Eddie Chapman, a real double agent who was brilliant at surviving. One of the main features of this film is that it is a very story-driven film, yet it fails to provide the reasons behind why Chapman was so unique in a way. It is a nice treat, especially for Bond lovers, but kind of forgettable.

3. Operation Crossbow (1965)

The film dramatizes the UK’s mission to bomb the German V1 and V2 rockets. Procedural suspense is at its peak in the first half. But the subplots of that part slow down the pacing. The second half of the movie does a good job of covering the first half’s mistakes, but never really achieves its potential.

2. Decision Before Dawn (1951)

Oscar Werner plays a German agent working for the Allies. He travels in bombed cities and goes through moracrises.es. The resolution and the stage work in the film are of great quality and create a very effective atmosphere of suspense. But the pacing is slow here, so it is more of a mood piece than a momentum-driven film; however, it still holds its ground for its great realism.

1. Foreign Correspondent (1940)

The first signs of spy gloom with murders, espionage, and chases full of danger constitute the beginning of Hitchcock’s take on wartime suspense. Joel McCrea’s character, who saves the day, is probably a little naive, but the setting and suspense episodes are typical of Hitchcock. It might not be the best one, yet it is still a required watch for spy thriller fans.

And here it is, the definitive list of WWII spy movies, from skip to must-see. If you want to understand the characters and their changing morals, or you want to see your heart stop during betrayals s then this genre is the one for you, it has it all and still leaves you craving for more spy movies.

What if you think about a rough voice, a powerful look, and a mustache that is better known than its owner, and yet, you get the idea of Sam Elliott, ourtime’ss most cowboy-like guyFor morere than fifty years, Elliott has been coining what a Western is by his brilliant interpretation of characters belonging to the category of the gunslingers, the men of law, and those mysterious genders of the middle ground. Here is a peek at 10 of the same Elliott most necessary Westerns, which on their own make an infinite series of his stable characteristics of the genre’s ultimate silver fox.

10. The Desperate Trail (1994)

Elliott Samcasts Bill Speakes, a tough law enforcer who is required to escort a murderess (Linda Fiorentino) to the firetrap. One thing leads to another, and stagecoach robberies, as well as loyalty changes, come into play. The performance of Elliott is a grand one, with a solemn, absorbing, and morally vague tone, a rougher side of the actor not so much exposed, but certainly there.

9. Buffalo Girls (1995)

Sam Elliott’s barely noticeable yet unforgettable performance as Wild Bill Hickok in this Emmy-nominated miniseries was simply indescribable. The story told from Calamity Jane’s (Anjelica Huston) point of view is a mixture of love, fight for survival, and cowboy toughness. Sam, with his limited time on stage, manages to fortify the rugged aspect of the character and also to touch the audience’s hearts.

8. The Shadow Riders (1982)

Along with Tom Selleck, Elliott plays the role of Dal Traven, a Civil War veteran who embarks on a journey to rescue his kidnapped siblings. The TV Western is powered by family honor, action, and humor, and Elliott’s calm demeanor adds weight and emotion to the great cast.

7. The Quick and the Dead (1987)

This is a Louis L’Amour remake of the film that Sam Elliott finds none of the Sharon Stone movie, but as a single gunslinger called Con Vallian who defends a Wyoming family. Through his quiet heroism and controlled romantic conflict, Elliott’s performance walks the line between skill and unspoken longing, thus emotionally supporting the film.

6. Gone to Texas (1986)

In this grand TV biopic about Sam Houston, tracing the way from Tennessee governor to the Texas Revolution, Sam Elliott turns the screw on the latter. Sam does not shy away from showing the contradictions and aspirations of a man that is bigger than life and exerts heavy influence through his personality – the moral dilemmas become life-altering experiences thanks to Elliott’s brilliant interpretation.

5. Gettysburg (1993)

For the most part, a Civil War epic, but Elliott’s performance of Union General John Buford has a Western flair: composed, firm, and quietly heroic. The core of the character m, as measured by his thoughtful movements and poise, his leadership qualities, and stature, linger on long after the film’s credits have ceased running.

4. Conagher (1991)

This TV gem from the ’90s is a story about wandering cowboy Conn Conagher, played by Elliott, who finds meaning and love when he helps a widow survive the frontier (played by his real-life wife, Katharine Ross). The movie, which deals with isolation, love, and action, is the one where Elliott gives one of his finest performances.

3. The Sacketts (1979)

The story is about the post-Civil War West, where three brothers had to survive and face numerous dangers. It is the classic miniseries with Elliott, Tom Selleck, and Jeff Osterhage as the main characters. Tell Sackett, played by Elliott, is a man of few words, loyal to the end, and a hero in his own quiet way, who notably adds to the overall plot of family drama and vast landscapes.

2. Tombstone (1993)

As Virgil Earp, Elliott is the moral force and supporter of the triple-famous cast, consisting of Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer. The story of the last shoot-out at the O.K. Corral, from the lawless streets to the end, has undoubtedly one of the best supporting performances by Elliott in a great Western movie of the modern era.

1. 1883 (2021–2022)

Without a doubt, his performance as Shea Brennan, the leader of the wagon train haunted by the Dutton family history, is the most emotionally varied one that we have seen from him so far. Aggressive yet delicate, as well as fighting and loyal, he is the one who, without losing his character as the series progresses, becomes the driving force of the difficult and realistic view of the early frontier.

Whether in traditional TV miniseries or film epics, Sam Elliott has been more effective than a million sunsets and tumbleweeds in saving the Western genre. The hero, antihero, or something else entirely, he is the most intriguing character of the bar, the one to whom every scene belongs because of his overwhelming presence.

Let’s be honest—a show about crime that is both crazy and bingeable and loved by everyone is like a $20 bill that you find in your winter jacket. From the previous winter. Rare, but satisfying. Now imagine not only one but ten such shows that have been blessed by a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes with no negative reviews. No bad episodes. No “meh” filler episodes. Just a continuous sequence of perfection. Here is your supreme listing—get your awesome snacks and free out your weekend time.

10. Rough Diamonds (2023)

If Succession took a detour through Antwerp’s diamond district and picked up some dark Belgian drama along the way, you’d get Rough Diamonds. When Noah Wolfson returns home after his brother’s death, he’s pulled deep into the dangerous world of diamond dealing and tangled family politics. Critics call it heartfelt, sharp, and yes—brilliantly cut.

9. House of Ninjas (2024)

Ditch the ancient scrolls—ninjas are back, and they’re in contemporary Tokyo. The Tawara clan, once famous assassins, needs to step out of retirement to handle an international threat and their dirty personal lives. It’s high-gloss action combined with family drama, with Kento Kaku at the head of a cast that can throw a punch as well as an emotional punch.

8. The Snow Girl (2023 – Present)

A missing child case might sound familiar, but The Snow Girl takes a deeper, more emotional path. Based on Javier Castillo’s bestseller, it follows journalist Miren Rojo investigating a young girl’s disappearance during a parade in Málaga. Milena Smit’s performance is as gripping as the mystery itself, and season two is already on the way.

7. The Asunta Case (2024)

This dramatization of the actual disappearance of 12-year-old Asunta Basterra in Spain doesn’t pull its punches. It’s a mix of tense courtroom drama and tear-jerking family secrets. Candela Peña and Tristán Ulloa give such true-to-life performances, you may find yourself forgetting that you’re watching a scripted series.

6. Dear Child (2023)

Psychological thrillers don’t come much more unsettling than this. A woman is released from captivity, but her liberation triggers the reopening of a 13-year-old missing persons investigation. Adapted from Romy Hausmann’s novel, Dear Child has you on the edge of your seat until the very last reveal, with Kim Riedle and young Naila Schuberth every inch the stars.

5. My Name (2021)

Revenge has never been so chic. Han So-hee plays a woman who goes undercover in the police department to track down the murderer of her father, toeing the line between criminal and law. Prepare for thrilling fight choreography, tear-inducing emotional punches, and a reminder of why K-dramas are global phenomena.

4. The Innocent (2021)

Harlan Coben adaptations are almost a Netflix staple, but The Innocent raises the bar. Mario Casas stars as Mateo, a guy whose life is turned upside down by one act of violence—and the secrets that continue to come back to haunt him. It’s twisty, visceral, and richly human in all the right ways.

3. Dark Winds (2022 – Present)

The Dark Winds is set on the expansive and bare 1970s Navajo Nation and tells the story of two police officers solving a double murder case. A series that combines the elements of mystery, western, and cultural heritage creates an extraordinary new substance, and Zahn McClarnon and Kiowa Gordon give brilliant acting to such a production.

2. The Chestnut Man (2021)

Danish noir at its darkest. When police discover a tiny chestnut figurine at the site of a horrific crime, they stumble upon a case that has been buried for decades but won’t remain there. Dark atmosphere, razor-sharp twists, and the snowy Copenhagen setting are just right for fans of atmospheric, layered mysteries.

1. Giri/Haji (2019)

It is a flashy and engaging British-Japanese crime drama that combines the best of both worlds. Detective Kenzo Mori, who goes to London to trace his missing brother, ends up dealing with the yakuza. The show manages to blend the three elements – action, emotion, and moral complexity – as perfectly as few can, largely due to the stellar performances of Takehiro Hira and Kelly Macdonald.

Ten crime dramas. Ten perfection scores. If you’re a fan of dark psychological mysteries, hard-boiled global thrill rides, or detective fiction with an unexpected twist, every one of these choices is a guaranteed safe bet. Binge them together, and you may never go to sleep again.

Firstly, one should consider that the most unexpected and spectacular drama of Hollywood is not the one that presents itself in the scene, but the one that arises behind the camera. For years, amidst turmoil, these film productions have been transformed into hellish sets filled with all sorts of things, such as the desire for power, big egos, unfortunate incidents, or simply bad luck. In addition to hazardous stunts, insane quarrels, and even death-threatening accidents, these films demonstrate how making movies can be even riskier and, on some occasions, more fascinating than the films they represent. Here is the name of the 10 most lawless movie sets in Hollywood history, ranked from the least to the most chaotic ones.

10. Suicide Squad (2016)

The decision to hire Jared Leto for the role of the Joker was, in short, setting fire to the powder keg. In his method of acting, he literally took over the set and transformed it into his eccentric territory. Among the “gifts” he offered was a live rat for Margot Robbie, which she took home until her landlord made her put it somewhere else. Other cast members weren’t as lucky and received even weirder surprises. Yet all the trouble his gags caused, he didn’t receive the payback he wanted; the movie bombed, and Leto’s Joker was put away forever.

9. Waterworld (1995)

Director Kevin Reynolds, through and through, went against the advice of Steven Spielberg, who told him never to shoot on the open sea. Needless to say, the outcome was a chain of unfortunate events. The cast and crew not only suffered from seasickness but were also stung by jellyfish, and the weather was too variable for comfort. In one particular storm, the whole set was destroyed, and in a terrifying moment, Kevin Costner almost drowned when a sudden tempest overturned his boat while he was tied to it. Without a doubt, Spielberg was quite right about this.

8. The Island of Dr. Moreau (1996)

It ended up being one of the most infamous Hollywood disasters. “The Island of Dr. Moreau” was initially the dream project of Richard Stanley. The film was riddled with problems. While Bruce Willis and Val Kilmer were emotionally troubled, Marlon Brando was in grief, and Stanley had verbal confrontations with the studio. The director got fired, and everything went from bad to worse. The film flopped, but a documentary about the failure eventually became popular among fans of the film industry.

7. Cleopatra (1963)

It’s almost as if the story of Cleopatra’s off-screen life was more remarkable than the film itself. The movie’s essentially unending rewrites, production delays, and location changes led to a budget that went out of this world. The directors were changed so many times, and whichever one was there at the moment, they had very little influence on the set. Still, what attracted the journalists most was Elizabeth Taylor’s love life, which she very openly shared with Richard Burton, thus making the set a place where the media circus could be held. Unfortunately, all this excitement was not enough to stop Twentieth-Century Fox from nearly coming to its knees.

6. Pssst. What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)

The feud between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford is well-known in Hollywood history, and it was always fiercest on the set of this movie. They were not just enemies on the screen but had a lot of hatred for each other in real life as well. Their feud reached the peak with one of the most scandalous events at the Oscars when a friend of Crawford, who was overlooked for the award nomination, accepted the prize in place of Anne Bancroft. The controversy became so famous that it was one of the reasons Ryan Murphy’s Feud came into existence, and the off-screen drama is still alive for a new generation.

5. Apocalypse Now (1979)

Francis Ford Coppola’s Hollywood dream of Vietnam turned Hollywood nightmare. Typhoon Olga demolished several sets, Martin Sheen suffered a heart attack, and Coppola admitted that he didn’t really know if the film would ever come to an end. The original plan of shooting for five months turned into a year-long extended production, leaving the cast and crew tired out and despairing. Eventually, though, this storm gave rise to one of the most brilliant films in the history of cinema.

4. The Passion of the Christ (2004)

Jim Caviezel’s performance as Jesus was an ordeal no less than suffering. He got whipped by mistake while carrying a huge wooden cross; she dislocated his shoulder, caught hypothermia, and was even struck by lightning. Caviezel has said that he wouldn’t change the experience for anything, but the incident damaged him both physically and professionally forever.

3. Fitzcarraldo (1982)

Werner Herzog’s inclination to portray the truth was almost outrageous. Rather than faking it, he was very adamant that a 320-ton steamboat be physically dragged through the Amazon rainforest up a mountain. The procedure was incredibly slow and painful: injuries, deaths, and constant suffering among the locals and crew. This event became almost as legendary as the film, so it congratulates Herzog for a man who is ready to do everything to cross the limit.

2. Roar (1981)

What would it be like to film a movie with over a hundred lions, tigers, and untrained panthers that are free to roam the set? The answer is Roar, the film of Noel Marshall and Tippi Hedren, which was nothing but a nightmare. The actors and the crew were attacked at all times. Marshall was very close to death due to gangrene after one of the attacks on him, and Melanie Griffith had to reconstruct her face after a lion attack. Almost all of the people involved in the production were injured in one way or another, which is the reason for naming Roar to be one of the most dangerous film shoots ever.

1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Though The Wizard of Oz was a visual delight on the screen, the set was a disaster for the performers. The makeup of the Tin Man consisted of aluminum powder, which was toxic, and therefore, he was poisoned; the Wicked Witch of the West was burned from the fire used in the pyrotechnics, and the stunt sequences were very dangerous. The cast suffered from exhaustion, got injured, and were in terrible conditions, which made The Wizard of Oz one of the darkest legacies of Hollywood.

Such unfortunate events that happened during these productions prove that there is a very dark truth behind the glamour and the glitz of Hollywood. The sets, which could have been the artists’ imaginary worlds, turned into battlefields of ego clashes, harsh living conditions, and even danger. These movies might still be referred to as classics or, in some cases, as notorious flops, but the little stories about them remind us how much sacrifice, mayhem, and in some cases outright folly it takes to create movie magic. In the end, it’s a reminder: the real drama of Hollywood doesn’t always end when the director yells “cut.”

Thinking about film magic often leads one to instantly picture large-scale fights, grand love stories, or heart-wrenching endings. One could argue that those are not the only, or even the main, things that the audience remembers. In fact, cinema may owe some of its most lasting and beloved moments to the help and support of the mentors, those attending characters – the wise advisors, quirky teachers, and strict coaches that none would have become legends without them. Through imparting valuable life lessons, pushing someone beyond their capabilities, and even when just a simple reminder, these mentors also leave an impact of almost equal scale on the viewers. A list of the 10 best mentor-mentee relationships in movies, because after all, who doesn’t need a Yoda, a Mr. Miyagi, or a genie in their corner?

10. Frankie Dunn & Maggie Fitzgerald – Million Dollar Baby

Frankie Dunn (Clint Eastwood) is not a boxing trainer who merely teaches the techniques of the sport to Maggie Fitzgerald, but is the one who teaches her how to struggle for a place in the world through boxing. Frankie is burdened with regret over his past mistakes and sees Maggie as a new chance for redemption. Maggie, in return, discovers in Frankie the place of the father who has been missing in her life. The characters of the film support each other, and not always in a positive way, but it is undeniable how on the screen this relationship reveals the power to turn around the lives of those who participate in it, and most probably, two lives at the same time.

9. Haymitch Abernathy & Katniss Everdeen – The Hunger Games

Haymitch is not your smooth, motivational mentor; he’s snarky, grumpy, and perpetually drunk. But when the games start, his advice proves priceless. From survival strategy to survival savvy, he instructs Katniss (and Peeta) on how to successfully play the Capitol’s cruel game. Their dynamic is rough and complicated, but that makes it all the more authentic, and in the end, Haymitch’s hard-as-nails approach allows Katniss to live.

8. Master Shifu & Po – Kung Fu Panda

At first sight, a bumbling, dumpling-consuming panda is hardly likely to become a kung fu master. But reluctantly trained by Master Shifu, Po discovers that self-belief is the key to greatness. Their bond is both funny and touching, Shifu’s stern discipline offset by Po’s boundless enthusiasm. Ultimately, Shifu learns nearly as much from Po as Po does from him, a demonstration that tutors are changed by their pupils as well.

7. Professor Charles Xavier & The X-Men – X-Men Series

Professor X is not only a professor; he is a lifeline for young mutants who are troubled and confused by their powers and their sense of identity. His school turns into a shelter where, through his teachings, he instills acceptance, responsibility, and the strength of togetherness. Xavier’s teachings aren’t just for the students to master their powers; they regulate the practice of loving the things that make you unique and using them to make the world a better place. He’s the kind of mentor who, through patience, understanding, and an unflinching belief in his students, changes lives.

6. Gandalf & The Fellowship – The Lord of the Rings

The guy with the staff and fire,orks is not just Gandalf; rather, he is the compass that guides the Fellowship through the darkest parts of the journey. His wisdom, bravery, and occasional humor make Frodo, Aragorn, and the rest of the members of the Fellowship go beyond their fear. Gandalf is a mentor who is with us in our weakest moments but still manages to fill our hearts with hope by showing us that even the smallest person can change the future and encouraging us to use the time given to us to the fullest.

5. Professor Dumbledore & Harry Potter – Harry Potter Series

Mysterious, giving, and always one step ahead, Dumbledore is the best mentor one can have. He is forever conscious of the moments when he should provide advice and when he should let Harry discover on his own. The magic in their world doesn’t only represent wonders; it’s a metaphor for love, sacrifice, and the decisions that define us. Through his wisdom, Dumbledore keeps Harry Potter (and us) in mind that being great isn’t about being gifted but making the right choices.

4. Mr. Miyagi & Daniel – The Karate Kid

Mr. Miyagi turns Daniel through his “wax on, wax off” into a karate champion from a bullied teenager. But the whole fight is actually about more than that; it’s about discipline, balance, and respect. Miyagi’s concoction of patience, fun, and quiet might has made him one of the most unforgettable on-screen mentors. He tells both Daniel and all the watchers that character is just as important as skill.

3. Yoda & Luke Skywalker – Star Wars

Much as he was Yoda’s image, small in form but vast in understanding, he advised Luke to trust the Force, confront his fears, and learn through his challenges. Their Dagobah training sessions are of mythical status, yet it is Yoda’s own saying, “Do, or do not. There is no try,” which echoes over the years. Without Yoda, Luke would never have been the Jedi he was meant to be.

2. Mufasa & Simba – The Lion King

Mufasa, king and father, teaches Simba courage, responsibility, and the weight of leadership. His words follow Simba long after his death, haunting the very spot where Mufasa commands him to “remember who you are.” Their relationship is a lesson in paternal guidance, showing us that real mentoring can triumph even over death.

1. Genie & Aladdin – Aladdin

Genie could be the epitome of the flamboyant, comedic, and over-the-top personality, but it is the very same humor that holds some of the best pieces of advice in film history. He tells Aladdin to drop the mask, not to fall for the trap of pretending, and to like himself more. Their relationship is proof that the best advisors don’t dole out wisdom; they amuse you, annoy you, and let you find the magic within your own self.

Mentorship in film is not solely about giving advice; it is about growth, connection, and how another person’s skill can change another person’s route. Those couples are a reminder that even superheroes require support, and sometimes, the right mentor is the factor that decides between collapse and greatness.

For a lot of people, the mention of Adam Sandler is usually associated with annoying voices, disgusting stunts, and silly jokes about things like a hockey stick or shampoo. However, the point is that Sandler is, in a very low-key way, one of the biggest dramatic surprises in Hollywood.

In addition to the pratfalls and goofy presence, he’s built a body of more substantial work that proves just how much scope he really has. Let’s count off eight of his best dramatic performances that evidence the “Sandman” is a whole lot more than comedy royalty.

8. Big Daddy (1999)

While Big Daddy is a comedy, it was the first time that fans got to see another side of Sandler. Sonny, who is a slacker forced to take care of a five-year-old, balances his typical humor with some glimpses of sincerity and heart. While the movie was met with mixed reviews from critics, it was a glimpse of Sandler’s ability to keep the humor tethered to real emotion.

7. Funny People (2009)

In Funny People, the Judd Apatow comedy that co-stars Sandler as George Simmons, a famous comedian with a terminal illness, it is a role that invites him to satirize his own career and explore darker, more vulnerable terrain. George is not universally lovable, but Sandler makes him interesting—a complicated portrait of fame, guilt, and death.

6. Men, Women & Children (2014)

This underappreciated ensemble film has Sandler as Don, a husband caught in the confusion of modern love and technology. While the film itself didn’t shake up the apple cart, his acting is low-key and richly human. Slapstick there ain’t, only a realistic portrayal of frustration, temptation, and longing.

5. Reign Over Me (2007)

In one of his most powerful performances, Sandler stars as Charlie, a man consumed by grief after his loved ones perish on 9/11. Starring alongside Don Cheadle, he delivers a performance that’s both heartbreaking and empathetic. Charlie’s pain is relatable, and Sandler dives into that vulnerability without restraint, making this one of his most emotional pictures.

4. Uncut Gems (2019)

Few acting performances are more nauseating than Sandler’s in Uncut Gems. Playing Howard Ratner, gambler and bad-decision jeweler, he’s charismatic, chaotic, and flat-out exhausting, in the best way possible. The Safdie brothers’ wire-walking drama wouldn’t work without Sandler holding court, mixing desperation with allure. It’s not surprising that many critics thought he should have been Oscar-nominated.

3. Hustle (2022)

Basketball is the showcase of Hustle, but Sandler’s performance as bad-luck scout Stanley Sugerman gives the film its emotional center. He plays it with low-key tenacity and fond niceness, grounding the sports drama of the movie in genuine emotion. It’s a career highlight that receive a SAG award nomination and show once again that he excels beyond comedy.

2. The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)

Pairing with Noah Baumbach, Sandler plays Danny Meyerowitz, the reserved son trying to find his niche in a dysfunctional family. His low-key work is a study in understatement, hushed, low-key, and extremely accessible. Acting alongside Dustin Hoffman and Ben Stiller, Sandler proves he can hold his own in the independent drama ring with the big leagues.

1. Punch-Drunk Love (2002)

The film that broke them all. In Paul Thomas Anderson’s Punch-Drunk Love, Sandler is Barry, a solitary businessman with angry outbursts. It’s a peculiar, beautiful film, and his performance is nothing short of hypnotic, gangly, sensitive, and astonishingly commanding. It got him a Golden Globe nomination and officially confirmed him as something greater than a comedy phenomenon.

The next time someone dismissively refers to Sandler as just the Happy Gilmore guy, remind them of these eight performances. From tragic dramas to compelling thrillers, he’s proven repeatedly that the Sandman’s got range.

Hollywood likes to glint, yet behind the glint is a much darker truth. Some of its seemingly invincible stars were quietly fighting devils—internal battles with addiction, depression, and the destructive price of fame. Their own tragedies were only sensationalized by their deaths; they were harsh reminders of the cruelty of the spotlight. Here we look back on 10 artists whose lives were shortened by overdose or addiction, in reverse order of the most recent tragedies to the legends of the last decades.

10. Lil Peep (1996–2017)

Gustav Åhr, whose stage name was Lil Peep, was being hailed as a trailblazer of emo-rap music. His tombstone-honest singles about suffering, depression, and drug use resonated deeply with fans. He died at the age of 21 from an accidental fentanyl and Xanax overdose. His death shocked the music world and caused instantaneous controversy over the risks of drug use, which has been glamorized in youth culture.

9. Mac Miller (1992–2018)

Mac Miller possessed the hip-hop equivalent of the friend-next-door—laid-back, sincere, and down-to-earth. But addiction was common knowledge. He died in 2018 at the age of 26 after overdosing on a combination of fentanyl, cocaine, and alcohol. His death brought to light the epidemic that is spreading its scope through fentanyl-laced substances, a lethal trend that has driven a record number of young overdoses.

8. Cory Monteith (1982–2013)

To Glee fans, Cory Monteith was Finn Hudson more than anything else—he was the heart and soul of the series. Fans were shocked when he died at 31 from a heroin and alcohol overdose. The incident served as a reminder that nothing matters to addictions, and it is not only deadly but also bad to obtain alcohol mixers and drugs.

7. Brittany Murphy (1977–2009)

Brittany Murphy is most famous for 8 Mile and Clueless. She was loved for her bubbly personality and acting abilities. When she passed away at the age of 32, the cause of death was pneumonia, anemia, and drug intoxication. Her life demonstrated just how thin the lines are between health, drug addiction, and mental illness. Even years after remains Hollywood’s biggest enigma.

6. Heath Ledger (1979–2008)

Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight won’t be forgotten, but sadly, one of his last. At only 28, he accidentally overdosed on legally prescribed drugs, such as sleeping pills and painkillers. His death served to demonstrate how fatal legally prescribed medication can become if abused. The world lost a talented genius in the prime of his talent.

5. River Phoenix (1970–1993)

River Phoenix was the most promising young star of his time, appearing in Stand by Me and My Own Private Idaho. Just 23 when he died outside Hollywood club Viper Room, having ingested a lethal mix of heroin and cocaine. His death is an unfortunate reminder of possible lost talent and the dangers of polydrug use.

4. Chris Farley (1964–1997)

Chris Farley was comedy gold on SNL and at the movies in movies like Tommy Boy. But when the laughter faded, he had to contend with drug addiction and illness. He died from an overdose of a drug in his Chicago apartment at age 33. It’s a sad reminder that pain is masked behind laughter, and popularity will not mask personal conflict.

3. Janis Joplin (1943–1970)

Janis Joplin’s gravelly, soul-stirring singing made her a legend. Her war on heroin, though, was not unknown. She died of a heroin overdose in a Los Angeles hotel room at age 27, forever sealing her place in the squalid “27 Club.” Brief, however, she was. Her fearless talent scared and inspired generations of artists.

2. Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970)

Jimi Hendrix revolutionized music with his onstage guitar pyrotechnics. Superstardom and addiction proved to be a lethal combination. He died at 27 after combining barbiturates with alcohol and smothering in his sleep. His life is rock music’s most tragic tale—a prophetic loss when he was re-writing the music of tomorrow.

1. Marilyn Monroe (1926–1962)

These movies are not so much about celebrities as about deeper struggles with addiction, mental illness, and the stress of modern life are in them. One in five American adults has a mental illness, and overdose deaths among youth have exploded in the last few years, fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

If anything, these tragedies serve to remind us that addiction is colorblind to fame, fortune, or talent. It can happen to anyone. And though the stars that were lost left behind wonderful legacies, their stories also compel us to continue talking about mental illness and addiction—because lives are at stake.

Let’s be real: Netflix’s 2025 movie slate is overflowing with star power, big swings, and enough variety to keep every type of film fan happy. From long-awaited sequels to bold new experiments, this year’s lineup feels like a mix of comfort food and high art. Whether you’re craving monster mayhem, nostalgic comedies, or slick murder mysteries, Netflix is making sure your watchlist stays stacked. Here are the 12 original films everyone’s talking about in 2025, descending to the one that’s looking like the biggest knockout of the year.

12. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

Aardman Animations is reviving Britain’s best-loved clay pair for another romp. This time, Wallace and his faithful hound Gromit must face up to their arch-enemy Feathers McGraw, who’s now equipped with an AI-empowered garden gnome. The stop-motion wizardry is as enchanting as ever, and long-time viewers will adore that this tale follows directly after The Wrong Trousers. It’s nostalgia with an update, and just the way to remind a whole new generation of Wallace and Gromit. 

11. Fear Street: Prom Queen

The Fear Street franchise is back with an all-new standalone slasher in 1988. When a surprise nominee for prom queen at Shadyside High is put on the ballot, the evening rapidly becomes from tiaras to terror when girls begin to disappear. With a fresh cast and a campy retro vibe, this installment bridges the timeline between Fear Street: 1978 and Fear Street: 1994. Expect blood, drama, and a killer prom night that fans of the series won’t want to miss.

10. The Woman in Cabin 10

Keira Knightley stars in this sharp thriller based on Ruth Ware’s hit novel. A reporter on a luxury boat sees what she thinks is a murder, but the other passengers won’t support her. Simon Stone directs, and among the supporting cast are Guy Pearce, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, and Kaya Scodelario. This bodes stylish suspense and a big helping of paranoia. Gone Girl at sea.

9. The Ballad of a Small Player

Colin Farrell stars in this dark, high-roller drama as a compulsive gambler on the run in Macau, where fate and debt are intertwined. With Tilda Swinton, Fala Chen, and Deannie Yip in supporting roles, and All Quiet on the Western Front director Edward Berger at the helm, this promises to be a hushed-up slow-burner of a thriller. Deep down, it’s about fortune, redemption, and the price of taking chances, a great fit for Farrell’s brooding intensity.

8. Steve

Cillian Murphy leaves gangsters and nuclear physicists behind to play a reform school headteacher through one life-altering day in the 1990s. Tim Mielants directs, and Tracey Ullman and Jay Lycurgo co-star in the film, which is adapted from the novel Shy by Max Porter. Get ready for a close-up, emotionally bare performance from Murphy in a tale of second chances, survival, and self-doubt.

7. The Thursday Murder Club

What do you have when Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie join forces to crack crimes? A murder mystery dream cast. From the bestselling novel by Richard Osman, this comedy-whodunit follows a team of retirees who discover they have more than they bargained for. Directed by Chris Columbus, the movie offers equal doses of smart intrigue and warm humor. With this cast, it’s already a crowd-pleaser in waiting.

6. Frankenstein

Guillermo del Toro finally confronts the monster that’s been obsessed with him for decades. His take on Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece boasts Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as the Creature, with Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz. With del Toro’s classic combination of gothic splendor and existential terror, this is going to be more than a monster movie; it’s a tragedy about creation, obsession, and what it means to be human. One of the year’s most daring undertakings, hands down.

5. Happy Gilmore 2

Adam Sandler dusts off his putter almost 30 years later, delivering a sequel nobody ever thought they would see. Julie Bowen and Christopher McDonald return in their iconic roles, and this time around, Bad Bunny gets in on the action. Yes, it’s all nostalgia bait, but it’s also the sort of goofball, feel-good humor that Netflix subscribers consume. Love it or leave it, Sandler’s comedy reign on the service is unquestionable.

4. The Old Guard 2

Charlize Theron’s immortal fighter Andy is returning, and things are only going to get more complicated. With Uma Thurman and Henry Golding joining the cast, and Quynh hell-bent on revenge, this sequel takes a deeper look into the mythos of immortals while turning up the intensity. Bigger battles, more emotional gut-punches, and a story that examines what it actually means to live forever await.

3. The Electric State

The Russo brothers’ newest is a retro-futuristic action movie with Millie Bobby Brown as a teenage girl on a quest to find her brother among a wasteland of robots. Chris Pratt is her grudging companion, and Anthony Mackie provides the voice for her snarky robot sidekick. Blending live action and revolutionary animation, the movie boasts an A-list supporting cast and some of the Russos’ most daring visuals to date. Stranger Things by way of Blade Runner.

2. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

Benoit Blanc returns, and Daniel Craig’s Southern detective is presented with his most challenging case to date. The cast features Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, and Kerry Washington. With Rian Johnson back at the helm to write and direct, be prepared for scything wit, surprise turns, and plenty of humor among the murder and mayhem. This could be the last Knives Out entry under Netflix’s behemoth deal, so enjoy it.

1. Havoc

Leading the charge is Havoc, Gareth Evans’ next American-set film after The Raid. Tom Hardy plays Walker, a corrupt cop trekking through a violent criminal world to save a politician’s son. Forest Whitaker, Timothy Olyphant, Luis Guzmán, and Jessie Mei Li join him in what promises to be sheer pandemonium. Be prepared for bone-crunching violence, breakneck speed, and Hardy in his most feral form. If Evans brings even half the intensity of his earlier work, Havoc could be Netflix’s biggest action hit ever.

From slapstick comedies to gothic horror to bone-shattering action, Netflix is swinging for the fences in 2025. Whether you’re in the mood for laughs, chills, or edge-of-your-seat thrills, this lineup proves the streamer isn’t slowing down anytime soon.