Have you ever watched a movie and suddenly thought, “Wait… is that really them?”—only to realize you’re seeing a future superstar at the very start of their career? Hollywood is full of stories like that, where a brief appearance or a single memorable scene ends up launching someone toward major stardom. These are ten actors who turned small supporting roles into the breakthrough moments that changed everything.

10. Brad Pitt as J.D. in Thelma & Louise (1991)

One shouldn’t forget that a couple of years before being named People magazine’s Most Attractive Man Alive, not once but twice, Brad Pitt was simply a charming, somewhat quirky west cowboy hitchhiker equipped with a hairdryer and an infectious smile. Just a handful of appearances as J.D. in Thelma & Louise, directed by Ridley Scott, weren’t only the characters that Pitt stole – he took the whole movie. That scene at the motel was pretty much the vehicle by which his entire career was changed in a matter of hours. And a fun fact: Geena Davis was the one who chose Pitt for the role. Good call, Geena.

9. Ana de Armas as Joi in Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

Ana de Armas had steadily worked before this, but Blade Runner 2049 turned everything around. As Joi, the hologram AI who truly feels human, she added warmth and emotion to a character that could have been technical and cold. Having auditioned several times and mastered her English accent, Ana gave a memorable performance alongside Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford. That hologram glow-up directly resulted in Knives Out, No Time to Die, and an Oscar nomination for Blonde. Not too shabby for a “virtual” love interest.

8. Bradley Cooper as Sack Lodge in Wedding Crashers (2005)

Years before he was directing, singing, or voicing Rocket Raccoon, Bradley Cooper was the world’s most infuriating fiancé, Sack Lodge, in Wedding Crashers. His delectably punchable performance was so biting that director David Dobkin hired him on the spot—a not-so-common practice. That role brought Cooper the notoriety he required to break out, paving the way for everything from The Hangover to A Star Is Born. Evidence that even being a bad guy can be rewarding.

7. Margot Robbie as Naomi Lapaglia in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Margot Robbie’s performance as Naomi, better known as the “Duchess of Bay Ridge,” was the epitome of a breakout role. She held her own opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in one of Martin Scorsese’s more out-of-control films and commanded every second she was on screen. A complete newbie at the time, Robbie didn’t just stand her ground—she actually told DiCaprio to step aside when he stood in her light during a scene. From there, she was off: I, Tonya, Harley Quinn, Barbie, you name it.

6. Amanda Seyfried as Karen Smith in Mean Girls (2004)

Before singing her heart out in Mamma Mia! or earning awards for The Dropout, Amanda Seyfried debuted on the big screen as the sweetly dim Karen Smith in Mean Girls. She was initially being considered for the lead, but she wound up playing the lovable airhead when producer Lorne Michaels determined she’d perfect the role, and he was dead on. Karen may not be the sharpest, but Seyfried’s charm was radiant on the screen. On Wednesdays, we wear pink… and credit Mean Girls for opening up Amanda’s career. 

5. Matthew McConaughey as David Wooderson in Dazed and Confused (1993)

“Alright, alright, alright.” With those three words, Matthew McConaughey transitioned from anonymous Texan to Hollywood legend. His cameo as the cool (and a little shady) Wooderson was not even slated for much, but McConaughey’s laid-back charm made him the film’s most quotable star. That role marked the beginning of an extended, convoluted path from rom-com lead to Oscar winner, aka the iconic McConaissance.

4. Marilyn Monroe as Miss Casswell in All About Eve (1950)

There was a small but show-stopping turn as Miss Casswell in All About Eve before she was Hollywood’s most glamorous blonde bombshell. Even with minimal dialogue, her stardom was not to be denied. Audiences and reviewers were unable to tear their eyes away, and that fleeting on-screen appearance propelled her towards stardom. It was the harbinger of the legend she would eventually become.

3. Emma Stone as Jules in Superbad (2007)

Emma Stone’s initial film appearance as Jules in Superbad was ideal. As the hip girl who sets off the movie’s misadventures, she exuded the same blend of charm and cleverness that would characterize her career. Since then, Stone was ubiquitous, starring in Easy A, La La Land, Poor Things, and has won two Oscars. Not bad for a teen mayhem and worse fake ID comedy.

2. Kevin Costner as Jake in Silverado (1985)

Kevin Costner’s dynamic performance as the bad boy Jake in Silverado may have been a supporting role, but it almost screamed “leading man.” Director Lawrence Kasdan assigned him the part after he had removed his scenes from The Big Chill, and Costner capitalized on it. His charm and presence on-screen were impossible to ignore, opening the door to The Untouchables, Field of Dreams, and Dances with Wolves. At times, redemption arrives wearing a cowboy hat.

1. Channing Tatum as Jason Lyle in Coach Carter (2005)

Before becoming a household name with Magic Mike and Step Up, Channing Tatum was simply another face on the basketball court in Coach Carter. He never even played the sport, but his drive and presence were enough to earn notice. That little role led to every door: dancing, comedy, producing, directing. Tatum showed us that sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity (and a whole lot of hustle) to transform a few scenes into a legitimate career.

Hollywood adores an underdog tale, and these actors are living proof that greatness may begin with only a single brief scene. So the next time you see a familiar face nestled into the background of a movie, take notice. You may just be witnessing the beginning of the next big thing.

Let’s be honest—DC is going through a major shake-up. With James Gunn and Peter Safran now steering the ship, the DC Universe is rewriting its playbook, and that means rethinking one of its most legendary heroes: Wonder Woman. Gal Gadot made Diana Prince unforgettable, but with the franchise moving toward a full reboot, it’s only a matter of time before a new version of the Amazon champion steps into the spotlight.

So, who’s got the presence, power, and screen charisma to fill those iconic boots? Whether it’s up-and-coming stars or well-established pros, here are 10 actresses who could slay it as the new Wonder Woman.

10. Bruna Marquezine

Bruna Marquezine already tested the DC waters with Blue Beetle, and though the movie failed to set the box office ablaze, she shone in her role. She was even shortlisted for the role of Supergirl in The Flash, and that shows us that the studio believes there is something special about her. With effortless charm and intense on-screen presence, Marquezine might deliver a young but authoritative version of Wonder Woman—one that feels fresh without being removed from reality.

9. Katherine Waterston

Katherine Waterston has an intensity and depth that might give Wonder Woman some serious dramatic heft. Standing at 5’11”, she is physically imposing, like an Amazon, and her performance in Alien: Covenant and Fantastic Beasts demonstrates she can carry big-budget features. With emotional subtlety and quiet strength, Waterston might give us a Diana who is both powerful and deeply human.

8. Charlee Fraser

Charlee Fraser is not a household name yet, but her breakout role in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga made it unmistakable—she’s one to watch. With a look inspired by a younger Gal Gadot and an act rich in grit and poise, Fraser could bring a smooth transition of the character. She’s that kind of up-and-comer who could play the role for years to come.

7. Emma Mackey

With starring roles in Sex Education, Barbie, and the new Chronicles of Narnia reboot, Emma Mackey is poised for stardom. She even auditioned for Lois Lane in Superman: Legacy, showing she’s already on DC’s radar. With dramatic looks and a strong presence, Mackey might bring a contemporary twist to Wonder Woman—one that walks the line between strength and vulnerability seamlessly.

6. Grace Caroline Currey

Grace Caroline Currey already has DC cred from her stint as Mary Bromfield in Shazam!. She’s performed both the civilian and superhero versions of her character with heart and conviction. If DC can recast within its universe (just ask Jason Momoa), Currey would be a good bet. She has warmth and grit that could shine in a starring role. 

5. Eiza González

Eiza González has long been fan-cast across nearly every superhero franchise—and for good reason. Her performances in action roles, from Baby Driver to Godzilla vs. Kong, prove she can lead a high-octane film. Add to that her screen presence and sharp charisma, and you’ve got someone who could bring both edge and elegance to Diana Prince.

4. Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier made her superhero debut in Spider-Man: Homecoming, but she’s only just getting started. At 5’9″, she carries herself with a dignified presence that would suit perfectly on Themyscira. Roles in BlackKkKlansman and Hollywood demonstrate that she’s got dramatic chops, and Wonder Woman might be the role that launches her to new heights.

3. Daisy Ridley

Daisy Ridley is accustomed to playing iconic characters, having portrayed Rey in the Star Wars sequel trilogy as Rey. She’s shown she can do big stunts, emotional journeys, and the pressure of the franchise variety. Although her Star Wars legacy could make her a risky choice, Ridley’s combination of power and empathy is exactly what Wonder Woman embodies.

2. May Calamawy

May Calamawy impressed strongly in Moon Knight as Layla El-Faouly, and she’s got everything to make a wonderful Wonder Woman. She speaks up for social justice causes, infusing real-world integrity into the character. If DC wants someone who shares Diana’s values both on- and off-screen, Calamawy is the natural choice.

1. Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona is the name that continues to be mentioned everywhere among fans—and it’s not hard to understand why. Having appeared in Andor, Hit Man, and Morbius, she’s displayed emotional range, charisma, and significant range. She’s also had working experience with James Gunn previously (The Belko Experiment), and her career thus far seems to have been leading up to a prominent superhero role. If DC needs someone prepared to lead a new era, Arjona could be the ideal candidate.

Whoever ends up holding the Lasso of Truth, one thing is certain: Wonder Woman’s legacy rests comfortably in capable hands. Whether that’s an old familiar or a fearless recruit, the next Diana Prince has some big boots to fill—and we can’t wait to see who takes them on.

2025 hasn’t been kind to TV fans. One minute you’re happily binge-watching your favorite show, and the next, you’re scrolling through social media in disbelief, muttering, “Wait… they canceled that?!” Networks and streaming platforms have been relentless with cancellations, leaving no fan-favorite truly safe. Grab your snacks (and maybe a stress ball), because here are the top 10 most shocking TV cancellations of 2025—and the impact they had on viewers everywhere.

10. The Summer I Turned Pretty (Prime Video)

Jenny Han’s sun-kissed coming-of-age tale had fans living for the Conrad-Belly-Jeremiah love triangle. So when Prime Video dropped the news that season three would be the final one, fans weren’t exactly prepared to say their goodbyes. Yes, the finale follows the book trilogy ending, but that didn’t make it any less painful to bid adieu to one of the platform’s biggest summer hits.

9. Kaos (Netflix)

This one hardly had time to leave a mark before it disappeared into the streaming ether. Kaos, Netflix’s crazy, irreverent take on Greek mythology with Jeff Goldblum as Zeus in a tracksuit, was a visual feast and an offbeat gem in the fantasy category. But though it made Netflix’s Top 10, it got canceled mere weeks after its release. The unsolved cliffhanger had audiences seething and served as a reminder that no program, however innovative, is entitled to a second season.

8. The Wheel of Time (Prime Video)

The fantasy-loving crowd has been left devastated by this news. After a stellar and critically acclaimed third season (which also scored an impressive 97% on Rotten Tomatoes), Amazon decided to pull the plug on The Wheel of Time. Although critics gave rave reviews and the show had a fan-friendly demographic, the decision was made to end the series due to the exorbitant production costs and the fluctuating number of viewers. It’s pretty much a slap in the face when The Rings of Power keeps getting renewed while the Wheel fans are left wondering and grieving.

7. The Equalizer (CBS)

Queen Latifah’s new interpretation of the vigilante hero archetype not only gave network TV a Black-led action series, which was long overdue, but the viewers also fell in love with it. However, after five seasons, CBS finally decided to bring The Equalizer to a close. Now, the series finale is the last chapter of the show, leaving loyal fans emotional and upset that one of the few empowering procedurals on TV had to end.

6. The Queer Story Problem: Kaos, A League of Their Own, and More

This is not about a single show only; rather, it’s about the queer turned trend. With Netflix’s Kaos and Prime Video’s A League of Their Own leading the way, the year 2025 has been the year of the quick and quiet demise of queer-led and inclusive shows for which the creators and the audience have been speaking constantly. They have been saying that when the budget is tight, the diverse storytelling will be the first to be cut. This unfortunate trend goes against the advancement that streaming used to promise.

5. Yellowjackets (Paramount+)

The saga of the girls’ soccer team, which started as a dark survival story and later turned into a terrifying horror story, has become a cultural phenomenon. The fans of the Yellowjackets were so captivated by the show that they eagerly awaited every flashback and shocking revelation. Therefore, when the showrunners, Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson, informed the audience that the fourth season would be the last, and they assured the story had come to a natural end, the fans were still overwhelmingly disappointed. The truth is, quite a few of them were hoping for another round of jungle chaos.

4. The Sandman (Netflix)

Decades of waiting finally came to fruition when Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman received the adaptation fans had been fantasizing about, only for Netflix to axe it after two seasons. Visually breathtaking, critically praised, and loved by the audience, the movie seemed all the more merciless. Although rumors did abound that behind-the-scenes disputes might have had a role in the decision, viewers were left in suspended animation with a half-finished fantasy classic.

3. The Boys (Prime Video)

No shows have had the pop-culture stranglehold that The Boys had. Gory, funny, and unapologetically political, it changed the superhero game. But five explosive seasons later, Prime Video is said to be calling it a day. The silver lining: its spin-off Gen V will live on. The downside: fans will bid farewell to Homelander, Butcher, and all the glorious mayhem that came with them.

2. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (CBS)

The time has come to say goodbye. After ten years of sharp humor, viral moments, and political satire that fights back, CBS has announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end in 2026. A financial factor was cited as the reason for the departure, but the audience is still asking if there is more to it. Anyway, it is a considerable loss for the TV culture of today to lose one of the late-night television’s fearless voices.

1. The Wheel of Time — Again

Indeed, it is listed here once more, and it is worth mentioning again. The Wheel of Time represents everything that has gone wrong with the streaming world in 2025: a huge problem, a show with a diverse cast, great critical scores, and it gets cut before the story can be finished. People are becoming more and more reluctant to get involved with new shows, and I think they have every right to be. If The Wheel of Time is not even safe, then what is?

When “Cancel Culture” Hits Close to Home

So, what is the moral of the story? In 2025, no show can exempt itself from the risk of being canceled – these are not only the most popular shows, the trailblazers, or even the fan favorites. The streaming wars are doing great damage as they go on, and the difference between “renewal” and “goodbye forever” has never been so slight. If you decide to fall in love with a show nowadays, you might have to watch your expectations (and your dreams) closely.

Let’s face it—streaming has delivered some of the boldest, weirdest, and most imaginative sci-fi shows ever. Sadly, many of these gems didn’t get the time they deserved. If you’ve ever shouted at your screen, “They canceled THAT?!”, you’re in good company. Here’s a countdown of ten sci-fi series that ended far too early—and truly deserved a longer run.

10. 1899

From the makers of Dark, this international mystery set on board the Kerberos was meant to be Netflix’s next big brain-twister. Aesthetically beautiful, creepy, and full of secrets, it ramped up to a giant twist that totally upended what we’d been expecting from the show. And then vanished after one season. Okay, it was costly, but how do you leave something that creative hanging?

9. Dollhouse

Joss Whedon’s Dollhouse featured Eliza Dushku as a programmable agent whose identity could be rewritten for each assignment. The series explored profound questions of autonomy and consciousness years before today’s AI controversy broke into the mainstream. Fox unfortunately shut it down early, and the writers had to hurry a conclusion that didn’t even come close to its potential.

8. Sense8

The Wachowskis presented us with Sense8, a sprawling, continent-straddling tale of eight strangers psychically connected on multiple continents. It was strange, gorgeous, uncompromisingly emotional, and utterly unlike anything else on television. When Netflix cancelled it after two seasons, people were so angry that the streamer acquiesced to producing a feature-length finale. Still, this one had far, far more to offer.

7. Westworld

HBO’s Westworld premiered as a lean, existential thriller involving androids coming to life as self-aware beings, and for a period of time, it was the network’s flagship. The narrative became a mess, yes, but audiences anticipated a fifth season to wrap up loose ends. Instead, it was canceled, and then HBO Max took it down from streaming altogether. Ouch.

6. Raised by Wolves

Made by Ridley Scott, Raised by Wolves was unadulterated, high-concept sci-fi: androids attempting to raise human children on an alien world after the end of Earth. It was creepy, stunning, and filled with giant ideas. But limited streaming on HBO Max, and then total removal from the service, kept it from ever finding its fans.

5. Archive 81

According to the popular podcast, Archive 81 was a found-footage mystery about an archivist discovering a dark cult through vintage videotapes. It landed on the exact blend of analog terror and crawl-burn conspiracy, but right when audiences became addicted, Netflix canceled it after one season. And yes, it cut off on a merciless cliffhanger. Justice for Archive 81.

4. The OA

Brit Marling’s The OA was a genre-defying marvel, half sci-fi, half spiritual journey, and wholeheartedly something else. It found a devoted cult base and had people speculating about its secrets. Yet after two seasons, Netflix cancelled it with a cliffhanger that continues to drive Reddit theories years on. Some scars never fully heal.

3. The Expanse

Few shows receive a second lease on life like this one. The Expanse premiered on Syfy and was saved by Amazon after fans campaigned to save it. Its six seasons provided some of the most intelligent and most realistic space opera created. But it adapted only two-thirds of the book series, leaving a massive portion of the story untold. The conclusion felt appropriate, but still, you can’t help but crave more.

2. Severance

Apple TV+’s Severance is one of the very few shows that immediately takes hold of you. Office employees divide their memories between work and personal lives, creating one of the creepiest and most engrossing sci-fi enigmas in years. It’s a critical favorite, relentlessly picked apart online, yet remains under the radar due to Apple’s lower platform. It is worth so much more attention.

1. For All Mankind

From Ronald D. Moore of Battlestar Galactica, For All Mankind speculates on what would have occurred had the Soviets outpaced the U.S. to the moon. The outcome? A decades-long alternate history full of scientific progress, political maneuvering, and profoundly human drama. It’s still strong on Apple TV+, but criminally underappreciated. This is prestige sci-fi at its best.

The streaming age has spoiled us with bold, experimental sci-fi, but it’s also proven how fragile these shows can be. The next time you’re browsing, don’t just chase what’s trending. Seek out the forgotten greats, the ones that dared to go weird, think big, and burn bright, even if only for a season or two. They’re the stories that stay with us long after the credits roll.

With a mix of sharp comedies, gripping thrillers, and lavish dramas, its library has something for every kind of binge-watcher. Looking for laughs or epic historical storytelling? Hulu delivers. Here are the 10 best Hulu shows to stream right now—because your watchlist deserves nothing but the best.

10. Deli Boys

Comedy-wise, if you prefer your joke to be dirty, edgy, and a bit disorienting, then Deli Boys is right up your alley. Mir and Raj Dar, the Pakistani American brothers, are the characters whose lives the show follows after they inherit the empire of their father’s convenience store, only to find out that it is a front for drug running. It is absurd, deeply emotional, and, in fact, quite funny in its depiction of the immigrant experience through some crazy comedic window. Moreover, with Fred Armisen joining the cast in season two, the jokes are going to get elevated to a different tier.

9. Paradise

Paradise offers the viewers political intrigue, high-drama plot twists, gut-wrenching surprises, and a lot more than that. The show is a product of the brain of Dan Fogelman (creator of This Is Us) and features Sterling K. Brown as a Secret Service agent who gets involved in a presidential murder scandal. Every episode keeps one in suspense, and the audience is still trying to figure out what happened to Special Agent Billy Pace after that horrible ending (“My man Billy never had a chance,” said one Redditor). Season two is coming with Shailene Woodley and Thomas Doherty joining the cast.

8. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives

Reality TV enthusiasts, welcome your new fix. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives strips away Utah’s perfect filters from its renowned “MomTok” influencer families to expose hidden scandals, secrets, and rivalries lurking behind their shiny posts. It’s a guilty pleasure, binge-viewing, and impossible to turn a blind eye to a spicy blend of social media soap and real-world drama that viewers can’t resist.

7. Interior Chinatown

Humorous, self-reflexive, and unexpectedly poignant, Interior Chinatown resists simple classification. Adapting Charles Yu’s prize-winning novel, it features Jimmy O. Yang as Willis Wu, an extra who longs to be the protagonist of his own life. When an actual crime forces him into a hard-boiled-style thriller, fiction and reality begin to bleed together for him. Pilot-directed by Taika Waititi, this subgenre-spanning comedy-crime series is as witty as it is sentimental.

6. Only Murders in the Building

A true-crime comedy that’s the ultimate comfort TV, Only Murders in the Building is as charming as ever. Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short play unlikely neighbors turned true-crime podcasters who can’t help but get entangled in murder mysteries in their Upper West Side building. The show’s new season welcomes A-list guest stars Bobby Cannavale, Renée Zellweger, and Christoph Waltz, ensuring its blend of humor, heart, and whodunit appeal isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

5. Abbott Elementary

Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary is still one of television’s sweetest comedies. It takes place in a Philadelphia public school and stars a team of dedicated teachers making do with minimal resources and maximum personality. The show has accrued huge awards and accolades for its intelligent writing and warm heart. Heading into its fifth year, it’s still the benchmark for feel-good, socially astute sitcoms.

4. The Bear

The intensity of The Bear is hardly matched by any other series. Jeremy Allen White plays Carmy, a chef from a top-tier restaurant, who returns to Chicago to revive the family sandwich shop. It is a deeply moving, unflinching journey of ambition, grief, and the complicated nature of teamwork. The show manages to be both nerve-wracking and loving, and the guest appearance by Jamie Lee Curtis, for which she won an Emmy, was remarkable. The new season sees more of the evolving relationship between Carmy and Syd and the restaurant’s future.

3. What We Do in the Shadows

Who says vampires can’t have fun? What We Do in the Shadows is a mockumentary-style comedy that turns the dark-sider vampire trope on its head with a group of inept vampires trying (and failing) to deal with everyday life in modern Staten Island. The show was co-created by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi and has completed six seasons. This series has firmly established itself as one of the most intelligent and hilarious comedies on the small screen, with a devoted fan base. You can stream all six seasons now, perfect for an unrelenting binge.

2. Shōgun

Shōgun is an absolute visual feast that not only dazzles but also sets a new standard for television of the highest quality. The mini-series, based on the classic novel by James Clavell, takes the audience deep into medieval Japan, where the interplay of politics, honor, and betrayal rules the day. The show was the big winner at the 2024 Emmys, taking home 18 awards (out of 25 nominations!), and it is still lauded for its grandeur, aesthetic, and powerhouse performances. There are two more seasons planned, but the art is already complete with the first 10 episodes.

1. Say Nothing

Sitting at the top spot is Say Nothing, a scary limited series from FX revolving around the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The series is anchored on Patrick Radden Keefe’s award-winning book and follows Dolours Price, an activist who finds herself in the midst of violence and tragedy. It’s a gripping slow burner that captures your attention from the very first scene, a flawless script, and a heart-wrenching drama that stays with you long after the closing credits.

And that was the best of Hulu today. From sob-inducing comedies and ghostly chaos to political thrillers and grand-scale dramas, Hulu is proving time and again that it is one of the most influential players in the streaming game. So, it’s about time you upgrade your account and start watching.

Some movies are comforting to revisit, while others hit so hard that the thought of watching them again feels impossible. These are unforgettable experiences—masterfully crafted, deeply heart-wrenching, and impossible to shake off. You’ll admire them, respect them, and maybe even be haunted by them—but chances are, you’ll never hit “play” a second time.

10. Uncut Gems

Adam Sandler’s performance as Howard Ratner is absolute madness. The Safdie brothers construct a world so frenetic and stressful that you’ll be caught up in Howard’s whirlwind of poor choices and escalating debt. It’s a phenomenal, high-tension masterpiece, but the stress is so overwhelming that watching it once will leave you completely exhausted.

9. We Need to Talk About Kevin

Tilda Swinton gives a haunting performance as a mother coming to terms with the unthinkable: her son’s violent, unforgivable actions. The film digs deep into guilt, fear, and the horror of maternal helplessness. It’s brutally effective and emotionally scarring, a movie you’ll respect more than enjoy.

8. American History X

Edward Norton’s performance as a recovered white supremacist is indelible and chilling. The raw examination of hate, redemption, and cycles of violence that the movie attempts is strong but brutal. Its last shots are a gut blow that lingers long after the credits roll, ensuring it’s a one-and-done watch for all but the toughest.

7. No Country for Old Men

The Coen brothers’ dark masterpiece probes fate, morality, and senseless violence. Anton Chigurh, Javier Bardem’s creation, is raw nightmare material, cold, relentless, and pitiless. The film’s unflinching examination of evil’s senselessness unsettles you even as you are awed by its perfection.

6. Melancholia

Lars von Trier’s apocalypse epic is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking. Kirsten Dunst and Charlotte Gainsbourg are two sisters who are facing the inevitable demise of all things, and it’s as despairing as it gets. A gorgeous, haunting study of depression and resignation, it’s genius… and utterly soul-destroying.

5. Manchester by the Sea

Casey Affleck’s understated, fractured performance holds this heartbreaking exploration of sorrow together. It’s a loss story with no quick ending or redemption, just the wrenching continuity of memory. The film’s integrity is what makes it superlative, but it’s what makes it almost impossible to see twice.

4. Hereditary

Ari Aster’s first horror film isn’t about demons or ghosts; it’s about loss, trauma, and how families unravel. Toni Collette shines in a performance that can’t be forgotten, and the film’s spiral into madness is both horrifying and heart-wrenching. It’s an emotional masterclass in horror that leaves you rattled to your very foundations.

3. Midsommar

Another Ari Aster mind-melter, Midsommar takes place in bright, endless daylight but feels like a slow-motion nightmare. Florence Pugh’s Dani finds solace and horror in a mysterious Swedish cult. What unfolds is a disturbing, grief-fueled breakdown wrapped in folk horror beauty. You’ll never forget it… or willingly watch it again.

2. Requiem for a Dream

Darren Aronofsky’s unrelenting portrayal of addiction is one of the most harrowing films ever made. Its descent from hope to despair is so raw that it feels like an emotional assault. By the time the credits roll, you’ll be speechless, and probably in need of something lighthearted to recover.

1. Grave of the Fireflies

No film punches as hard as Isao Takahata’s Grave of the Fireflies. Studio Ghibli’s animated tragedy is the story of two brothers trying to survive in the midst of World War II. It’s touching, devastating, and excruciatingly real. Once you’ve seen it, it remains in your mind for good, but it’s something you’ll never want to experience again.

These movies are unforgettable works of film, brash, stunning, and heart-wrenching. They remind us just how potent movies can be… but also how hurtful. See them once, feel it all, and then perhaps give your heart a very long holiday.

Think Starz is just a platform you scroll past on your way to Netflix or Max? Think again. Starz has quietly built an impressive film library, packed with everything from cult classics and sci-fi adventures to Oscar-winning dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies. Whether you’re in the mood for a pulse-pounding blockbuster or a nostalgic throwback, Starz has you covered. Here are the 10 best movies streaming now—ranked from great to essential.

10. War of the Worlds (2005)

Steven Spielberg’s modern retelling of H.G. Wells’ classic sci-fi novel about alien attack is a masterclass in tension. Tom Cruise plays an ordinary-guy dad trying to keep his kids alive as the world around them is laid waste by huge Martian war machines. It’s mad, frantic, and wonderfully visual, a disaster movie that’s terrifyingly believable. Avoid the remake; this is the one you’ll be sleeping with the lights on.

9. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

Edgar Wright’s cult classic action-romance is sugar-coated visual candy. Michael Cera’s Scott Pilgrim has to fight his dream girl’s seven villainous exes in a comic book-like world where everything looks and feels as if it were drawn. The fast cuts, crazy fight choreography, and sick soundtrack make this a geeky dream come true that never loses its appeal.

8. Pitch Black (2000)

Before Fast & Furious fame, Vin Diesel was Riddick, a hard-case inmate stranded on a sun-scorched world filled with light-averse beasts. Pitch Black is dark, action-packed sci-fi that combines horror and survival with just the right amount of attitude. It’s the one that started the franchise, and still the best of the bunch.

7. Gladiator (2000)

“Are you not entertained?” Ridley Scott’s sword-and-sandals epic, revised as a historical epic, was a spectacle once again. Russell Crowe fills the screen in Maximus, the betrayed Roman general who has to fight for honor and vengeance in the Colosseum. Five Academy Award-winning Gladiator is one of the most uplifting, emotionally powerful blockbusters ever imagined.

6. Dazed and Confused (1993)

Richard Linklater’s cult classic so perfectly encapsulates that bittersweet high-school purgatory, shot on the last day of school in 1976. With its easygoing charm, killer soundtrack, and early appearances by future stars Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck, this coming-of-age staple is basically one long, wistful summer night.

5. Bring It On (2000)

This satire of cheerleading brought sass, athleticism, and unexpectedly sharp wit to teen movies. Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union play bitter teammates vying for the national title, delivering big laughs, show-stopping routines, and fierce competitive heat. Twenty years on, it remains that movie when it comes to pep and attitude.

4. Big Daddy (1999)

Adam Sandler is most endearingly and surprisingly sentimental. Big Daddy is the story of a directionless guy who finds himself with instant responsibility for an underage boy left on his doorstep. What starts as a ramshackle premise becomes a bittersweet journey through manhood and discovering one’s place in the most unlikely of ways. It’s stupid, schmaltzy, and pure Sandler.

3. Night of the Living Dead (1968)

George A. Romero’s shoestring-budget horror changed the genre for all time. Stuck in a farmhouse while the dead rise, a group of strangers must contend with both outward dread and inward disintegration. Beyond the zombies, though, it’s a scathing social critique that remains so today. Plainly put, it’s where contemporary horror started.

2. This Is the End (2013)

The end of the world has never been so hilarious, or meta. Seth Rogen, James Franco, and his comedy team feature in over-the-top roles of themselves attempting to survive doomsday. It’s ridiculous, over-the-top, and incredibly quotable. Few comedies have ever managed to balance anarchy and wit with such finesse.

1. Boyz n the Hood (1991)

John Singleton’s landmark directorial debut is an incisive portrait of life, death, and brotherhood in South Central Los Angeles. Powerful performances by Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, and Laurence Fishburne make it both a gritty and a heartfelt one. Boyz n the Hood is not only a great film, but it’s a cultural touchstone that remains relevant more than 30 years on.

From cult hits to timeless dramas, Starz is quietly killing it with its movie lineup. These ten picks prove that sometimes the best gems aren’t hidden on the biggest platform; they’re waiting right where you least expect them.

Historical movies have a special way of pulling audiences into the past. With elaborate costumes, massive battle scenes, and dramatic storytelling, they often make viewers feel as if they’re witnessing history unfold right in front of them. It’s easy to walk away from these films believing you’ve learned something meaningful about a real event or historical figure.

But Hollywood has never been shy about reshaping the past to make a story more exciting. Real events are compressed, characters are invented, and sometimes entire storylines are changed for the sake of drama or spectacle. The films below may be entertaining and visually impressive, but they also take significant liberties with the facts. If anything, they serve as a reminder that movies are storytelling first, and history lessons second.

15. Centurion (2010)

Centurion imagines the mysterious disappearance of Rome’s Ninth Legion in Britain, a historical puzzle that scholars still debate today. Instead of exploring the uncertainty surrounding the legion’s fate, the movie chooses to create its own dramatic explanation filled with battles, ambushes, and relentless chases.

The film portrays the Picts as savage and almost mythical enemies while centering the story on fictional Roman soldiers. While the action sequences are intense and visually exciting, the movie turns a historical mystery into a full-blown adventure fantasy that bears little resemblance to what historians believe may have actually happened.

14. The Patriot (2000)

Mel Gibson’s Revolutionary War drama delivers plenty of thrilling combat scenes and emotional storytelling. His character, Benjamin Martin, is presented as a reluctant hero who ultimately becomes a key figure in the American fight for independence.

However, Martin is not a real historical figure but rather a mix of several individuals, with many of their darker traits conveniently removed. The film also portrays British soldiers as almost cartoonishly cruel while largely ignoring the complex realities of the time, including slavery. The result is an exciting movie, but not a particularly reliable depiction of the American Revolution.

13. The King (2019)

The King takes inspiration from Shakespeare’s plays rather than strict historical accounts of King Henry V. The movie presents Henry as a quiet, reluctant ruler who prefers peace over war, offering a more modern interpretation of the medieval monarch.

While the film captures the mood of the era with impressive visuals and performances, it invents dramatic scenes and simplifies historical events. One notable example is a fictional duel connected to the Battle of Agincourt, which never actually happened. It works well as a dramatic retelling, but it shouldn’t be mistaken for a documentary about England’s famous king.

12. Kingdom of Heaven (2005)

Ridley Scott’s sweeping epic about the Crusades is visually stunning, filled with large-scale battles and impressive sets. The story follows a blacksmith who unexpectedly becomes a nobleman and finds himself involved in the complex politics surrounding Jerusalem.

While the film attempts to explore themes of faith and tolerance, it significantly simplifies the historical tensions of the Crusades. Many characters are reimagined, timelines are adjusted, and key events are dramatized. The result is an engaging cinematic experience, but one that glosses over the complicated religious and political realities of the period.

11. Gladiator (2000)

Few historical movies are as beloved as Gladiator. Russell Crowe’s Maximus has become one of the most memorable characters in modern cinema, a loyal Roman general betrayed by the emperor’s son and forced into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat.

The problem is that Maximus never existed. The film also takes major liberties with Roman history, altering the story of Emperor Commodus and the death of Marcus Aurelius. Even the events within the Colosseum are largely fictionalized. While the movie captures the spirit of epic Roman drama, its version of history is mostly invented.

10. Apocalypto (2006)

Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto tells the story of a young man trying to survive after his village is attacked by warriors from a powerful Mayan city. The film is praised for its intense action and its use of indigenous languages.

However, historians have pointed out that the movie mixes elements from different Mesoamerican cultures and exaggerates certain practices. Some of the rituals and imagery resemble Aztec traditions rather than Mayan ones. The final appearance of Spanish conquistadors also occurs centuries earlier than it should, creating a dramatic ending but an inaccurate timeline.

9. Pearl Harbor (2001)

Michael Bay’s Pearl Harbor attempts to blend a romantic drama with one of the most significant events of World War II. Much of the film focuses on a fictional love triangle between two American pilots and a nurse.

The historical attack itself is heavily dramatized, and some events portrayed in the film simply didn’t happen. Scenes showing Japanese aircraft targeting civilians and the dramatic moment where President Franklin D. Roosevelt stands from his wheelchair are not historically accurate. The real events surrounding Pearl Harbor were already dramatic without these additions.

8. Dances With Wolves (1990)

Kevin Costner’s Oscar-winning film is often praised for its respectful portrayal of Native American culture, including its use of the Lakota language. The story follows a Union soldier who gradually becomes part of a Lakota community.

Despite its positive intentions, the film still relies on the “white savior” narrative, where an outsider becomes the central figure in a Native story. The main character is fictional, and the depiction of tribal life sometimes simplifies the complexities of Indigenous cultures and historical relationships.

7. Braveheart (1995)

Braveheart is widely regarded as one of the greatest historical epics ever made. Its story of Scottish warrior William Wallace leading a rebellion against English rule, which is filled with powerful speeches and dramatic battle scenes.

Yet historians often point out how inaccurate the film is. Wallace was not a simple farmer, kilts were not worn during that period, and the famous blue war paint was used centuries earlier. Even the romantic storyline involving Princess Isabella is impossible; she was a child living in France during Wallace’s lifetime.

6. 300 (2006)

Based on a graphic novel, 300 presents the Battle of Thermopylae as an intense, stylized clash between Spartan warriors and the massive Persian army. The film’s striking visuals and exaggerated action make it feel more like a myth than a historical retelling.

In reality, the famous 300 Spartans were joined by thousands of Greek allies. The Persians were not monstrous figures, and King Xerxes certainly didn’t resemble the larger-than-life character seen in the film. While visually unforgettable, the movie prioritizes spectacle over historical accuracy.

5. The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)

This Tudor-era drama focuses on the rivalry between sisters Anne and Mary Boleyn as they compete for the attention of King Henry VIII. The story is filled with romance, betrayal, and political intrigue.

Much of the plot, however, comes from a historical novel rather than verified records. The film alters family relationships, changes timelines, and invents dramatic moments to heighten the story. The real Boleyn family history was already full of drama, but the movie reshapes it even further.

4. The Imitation Game (2014)

Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a powerful performance as mathematician Alan Turing, the brilliant mind who helped crack the German Enigma code during World War II. The film brought attention to Turing’s life and his tragic treatment by society.

Unfortunately, it simplifies and alters many key details. Turing did not work alonehe was part of a large team that included contributions from Polish cryptographers. The film also invents certain personal storylines and exaggerates aspects of Turing’s personality. It honors his legacy but takes creative liberties along the way.

3. Argo (2012)

Argo tells the story of a daring rescue mission during the Iranian hostage crisis, where six American diplomats were secretly evacuated from Iran under the cover of a fake film production.

While the movie is gripping and well-crafted, it downplays the significant role played by Canadian diplomats who were crucial to the operation. The suspenseful airport escape sequence is also heavily exaggerated for dramatic effect. The real rescue was impressive enough without the added Hollywood tension.

2. Napoleon (2023)

Ridley Scott’s biographical film about Napoleon Bonaparte features grand battle scenes and a dramatic portrayal of one of history’s most famous military leaders. The movie attempts to capture both his ambition and his complicated personal life.

However, many historians criticized the film for altering timelines, exaggerating certain events, and inventing others entirely. One notable example is a battle scene involving a frozen lake that never actually occurred. Even the common belief that Napoleon was unusually short is misleading, yet the film leans into that myth.

1. Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Spy, Assassin (2025)

This film tells the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian who opposed the Nazi regime. While Bonhoeffer’s real-life courage and moral conviction were extraordinary, the movie transforms his story into something much more action-oriented.

The film adds fictional elements such as secret operations and unlikely encounters with famous figures. It turns Bonhoeffer into a cinematic hero rather than focusing on his real legacy as a theologian and resistance figure. Critics have noted that while the film is visually impressive, it drifts far from the historical truth of his life.

Historical films can be powerful storytelling tools, bringing distant events and famous figures to life on the big screen. They often spark curiosity and inspire people to learn more about the past. But as entertaining as these movies are, they shouldn’t always be taken at face value. Hollywood frequently reshapes history to create stronger drama, clearer heroes, and more exciting narratives. So the next time you watch a historical blockbuster, enjoy the spectacle, but remember that the real story might be quite different.

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching a real stunt on screen—especially when it’s the lead actor pulling it off. But those jaw-dropping moments often come with a cost: bruises, cuts, and sometimes even a ride in an ambulance. These are the actors who went above and beyond, putting their own bodies on the line to make the film unforgettable.

10. Natalie Portman’s Rib Injury during Black Swan

Natalie Portman had to pay a very bitter price to play a prima ballerina. During the filming of a lift in Black Swan, she hurt her rib; one bone was entirely on top of the other. The pain was so excruciating that the scene when her character is examined by a physical therapist actually stemmed from her actual injury. Portman never broke character for an instant; therefore, the line between acting and feeling was very thin.

9. Daniel Craig’s Tooth Trouble in Casino Royale

James Bond might be indestructible, but Daniel Craig isn’t. While filming a vicious fight sequence in Casino Royale, Craig was actually struck, and two of his front teeth were shattered. The filmmakers rushed him to London to get emergency dental repairs, and he wore a mouthguard for the remainder of the shoot. The result? Some of the most realistic fight scenes of the Bond series, along with real pain.

8. Dylan O’Brien’s On-Set Crash That Could Have Ended His Career

Dylan O’Brien’s on-set accident might have put an end to his acting career. While filming a complex stunt for the film, he was pulled out of a moving vehicle and struck by another car, with multiple fractures to the face and a concussion. A bout of reconstructive surgery and a few months’ worth of rehab were required, but O’Brien came back to complete the movie. His comeback was nothing less than heroic.

7. Margaret Hamilton’s Burns in The Wizard of Oz

Poor old Hollywood wasn’t the most safety-aware of places. Margaret Hamilton, Wicked Witch of the West, was severely burned during a pyrotechnics-gone-bad stage exit. A failed trapdoor led her to be engulfed in fire that left her with second-degree burns on her hands and face. Six weeks passed before Hamilton healed enough to return and finish up her scenes—with green makeup.

6. Halle Berry’s Broken Ribs in Bruised

Halle Berry didn’t just play an MMA fighter in her directorial debut, Bruised—she even got hit on her body. During the case, while filming a fight scene with UFC champion Valentina Shevchenko, Berry broke two ribs. She chose to go on with the shoot, completing the film in her injured, yet very determined, state of mind instead of production shutting down. If that is not a definition of total commitment, then what is?

5. Michelle Yeoh’s Torn ACL in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Besides being a daredevil when it comes to stunts, Michelle Yeoh’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was her breaking point. She even tore her ACL during the movie’s gorgeous rooftop chase, and ultimately ended up needing surgery and several months of rehab. Yeoh returned to complete the shoot, and she spent much of her time on set wearing a leg brace under her costume. Her dedication really made the movie have much more gravitas and intensity, which was even apparent in the movie’s theme of beauty and power.

4. Sylvester Stallone’s Heart Injury in Rocky IV

In the course of performing the boxing scene for Rocky IV, Sylvester Stallone instructed co-star Dolph Lundgren to punch him in reality. On an extremely unfortunate twist of fate, one of the punches was so powerful that it inflamed Stallone’s heart, really just like what occurs when one experiences a car accident. He was seriously ill and spent a couple of days in intensive care, but the incident was real enough to be retained in the film. 

3. Brad Pitt’s Hand Injury in Se7en

In the shooting of a dramatic car chase sequence in Se7en, Brad Pitt, the star actor of the film, slipped and, in a desperate attempt to arrest his fall, he punched the window of the car. Fortunately for him, the glass was razor-sharp, and in turn, it sliced through his hand, resulting in a deep cut requiring suturing. The director, David Finch, treated the accident as a blessing in disguise and chose to proceed with the shoot, working the injury into the script, so that the bandaged hand became the character’s appearance. What one observes is an undetectable blending of a true event with fiction. 

2. Tom Cruise’s Broken Ankle in Mission: Impossible – Fallout

Tom Cruise’s personal rule of doing his own stunts is the stuff of myths, but it finally caught up with him on Fallout. In jumping from one roof to another, he miscalculated the space and landed splat on a wall, injuring his ankle in the process. Shooting was delayed for nine weeks as he recuperated—but in typical fashion, Cruise came back to finish the scene on his own. The take where he hurts himself actually makes it into the movie.

1. Jackie Chan: The Greatest Stunt Legend

Few performers have sacrificed as much personally on behalf of their craft as Jackie Chan. For decades of doing his own death-defying stunts, Chan has broken virtually every bone, endured humanly possible skull fractures, spinal injuries, dislocated shoulders, and even had his brain opened up after a fall out of a tree. His commitment to practical stunts has earned him a worldwide legendary status and a walking scar tissue of healed wounds.

From blacked-out eyes to broken limbs, these performers demonstrated that movie magic sometimes takes an extremely real cost. Their injuries are part of film history—a reminder that the greatest action sequences oftentimes derive from performances without fear and a little too much devotion.

Peacock has quietly grown from a scrappy newcomer to one of the most entertaining streaming platforms out there. Whether you’re in the mood to rewatch classic comfort shows like The Office, dive into high-octane thrillers like Twisted Metal, or get wrapped up in the mind games of The Traitors, there’s something for everyone. Here are 12 of the best shows to stream this week—ranked with just the right dose of drama and binge-worthy fun.

12. Girls5eva

If you have ever had a hairbrush karaoke session, singing along as a pop sensation, Girls5eva will be ringing all the bells. This acutely funny musical comedy celebrates a ’90s one-hit-wonder all-female group attempting a comeback years and years later. Starring Tina Fey and Robert Carlock producing, with a powerhouse cast topped by Sara Bareilles, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Busy Philipps, and Paula Pell, every punchline hits, and every tune gets stuck in your head. It’s smart, it’s retro, and a complete pleasure to watch.

11. Chucky

The world’s most notorious doll is not finished killing or joking around. Chucky, the television revival of the Child’s Play series, gets new life on Peacock with creator Don Mancini guiding the way and Brad Dourif reprising as the voice of the killer doll. It’s part slasher, part satire, part surprisingly tender coming-of-age tale. Evidence that even horror legends can grow up, and still frighten us years from now.

10. Rutherford Falls

Peacock has hit a sweet spot with offbeat small-town comedies, and Rutherford Falls is probably its most tender. Developed by Michael Schur, Ed Helms, and Sierra Teller Ornelas, the series delves into friendship, identity, and community with humor and heart. With one of TV’s biggest Indigenous writing staffs, it’s a refreshingly inclusive, well-considered comedy that’s both hilarious and meaningful.

9. The Traitors

If you’re into drama, deception, and mind games, The Traitors is your next obsession. Hosted by a delightfully theatrical Alan Cumming, this reality competition mixes mystery, strategy, and betrayal in a castle-set showdown. Think Mafia meets Survivor with a touch of camp. It’s Peacock’s breakout reality hit, and for good reason.

8. Love Island USA / Love Island: Beyond the Villa

Sun, love, and lots of drama, enter Love Island USA. Contestants couple up, couple down, and create drama in the Fijian sun while viewers get to be the matchmaker at home. Spin-off series Love Island: Beyond the Villa reunites fan favorites as they attempt real love (and real life) once the cameras are turned off. Combined, these shows are the beating heart of Peacock’s reality empire.

7. The Day of the Jackal

Eddie Redmayne stars as the world’s greatest ghost, the elusive assassin, in this contemporary, high-stakes retelling of the classic thriller. The Day of the Jackal combines espionage, global intrigue, and heart-pounding suspense. Season two is shaping up to be even more twisty, solidifying this show as a must-see for both fans of spy novels and action dramas.

6. The Paper

From The Office’s Greg Daniels and Nathan for You’s Michael Koman comes The Paper, a workplace mockumentary for the digital age. Following the eccentric staff of a struggling Midwestern newspaper, the series captures the chaos of journalism with heart and humor. Domhnall Gleeson and Sabrina Impacciatore lead a stellar cast, with a few surprise cameos for fans of The Office. It’s nostalgic, clever, and endlessly quotable, everything a comedy should be.

5. Poker Face

Rian Johnson and Natasha Lyonne serve up pure gold with Poker Face, a masterful throwback to the mystery-of-the-week genre. Lyonne stars as Charlie Cale, a human lie detector who can’t seem to help stumbling into murders wherever she goes. There’s a new crime each week, along with a new guest star and Lyonne’s unbreakable charm. It’s clever, stylish, and one of the decade’s greatest detective shows.

4. Law & Order: Organized Crime / Law & Order: SVU

Peacock is the ultimate destination for Law & Order fans. SVU remains a TV institution, with Mariska Hargitay’s Olivia Benson still seeking justice after more than 20 seasons. Meanwhile, Organized Crime brings Christopher Meloni’s Elliot Stabler back into the fold, chasing down New York’s most dangerous criminals. With both series streaming in full, it’s the perfect time to revisit these legendary shows or start fresh from the beginning.

3. The Office

Let’s face it—The Office is Peacock’s crown jewel. It’s quoteably infinite, crazily rewatchable, and just as funny now as it was back then. The show has garnered a whopping 1.7+ billion viewing hours on Peacock, demonstrating its timelessness. Relive Jim and Pam’s love story or cringe at Michael Scott’s shenanigans; The Office never fails.

2. The Paper (Yes, Again)

It’s not often a show is so excellent it warrants a double shout-out, but The Paper deserves one. Not just a spiritual descendant of The Office, it’s a love letter to story, to community, and to the messy glory of everyday workplaces. With whip-sharp dialogue and a cast of actors that feel like long-lost friends, it’s the type of show you’ll be eager to make every friend you have watch.

1. The Traitors

Number one on that list is The Traitors, the reality behemoth that’s got everyone abuzz. Every installment is filled with scheming, paranoia, and eye-popping surprises, all stage-managed by Alan Cumming’s wickedly over-the-top hosting. The weekly-by-week drop keeps audiences on tenterhooks and social media abuzz. It’s a testament to the fact that occasionally, the slow burn is the sweetest.

Peacock has evolved into a powerhouse of entertainment, offering something for every mood: nostalgia, laughs, chills, or drama. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new obsessions, these 12 shows prove there’s never been a better time to hit play.