We’ve all done it: you line up a childhood favorite or an erstwhile blockbuster hype, then sit through it cringing in shock. What was funny, exciting, or revolutionary at the time now comes across as cringeworthy, tone-deaf, or downright offensive. Whether it’s wobbly CGI, outdated gags, or blind spots regarding culture that particularly stand out now, these movies keep reminding us that not everything gets better with age. Here are 10 films that haven’t held up over time—anywhere from slightly cringe-worthy to straight-up shocking.

10. The Flash (2023)

A superhero movie about retconning history should’ve been future-proof. Instead, The Flash was dated before audiences even got to see it. Delayed productions, sloppy controversies around Ezra Miller, and outlandish CGI re-creations of iconic actors made it crash and burn. By the time of its release, Warner Bros. had already abandoned this take on the DC universe—so it felt like a relic on day one.

9. The Mummy Returns (2001)

The movie’s legacy is less about Brendan Fraser’s charm and more about… that CGI Scorpion King. The Rock’s debut as a half-human, half-scorpion creature looked like it came from a bargain-bin video game cutscene. In 2001, audiences tolerated it. Two decades later, it’s infamous meme material.

8. The Faculty (1998)

Half alien-invasion movie, half teen rom-com, The Faculty is a ’90s time capsule—and not for the better. The retro slang and cardboard cutouts are cringeworthy, but the issue is its clumsy handling of LGBTQ issues. The “fake lesbian” misfit subplot is presented as a relief when she is revealed to be straight, which in the present feels clumsy and dismissive.

7. American Pie (1999)

Once the teen comedy poster child for raunchy humor, American Pie hasn’t stood the test of time. That plot where Jim and his buddies clandestinely stream a girl getting undressed? Yeah… no longer funny. Even cast members acknowledge it wouldn’t work today. What was once sold as goofy fun now feels like a how-not-to book for respecting personal boundaries.

6. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

Yes, Indy provides action. No, the movie does not provide cultural sensitivity. Chock-a-block with stereotypes and insensitive representations of Indian culture (not to mention its notorious dinner scene), the film was banned in India on its release. What audiences used to dismiss as “exotic adventure” now sounds outright problematic.

5. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

Audrey Hepburn might be immortal, but Mickey Rooney’s caricature of Mr. Yunioshi ain’t. Universally reviled as one of Hollywood’s most egregious racist caricatures, the character is an embarrassing reminder of how normalized such an image once was. Rooney and director Blake Edwards later regretted it as well.

4. Sixteen Candles (1984)

John Hughes codified the ’80s teen film, but Sixteen Candles hasn’t aged well. From the perfunctory handling of date rape to the stereotypical Asian character Long Duk Dong, it’s a primer on how comedy used to punch down on marginalized communities. What used to be funny now simply makes viewers cringe.

3. Gone with the Wind (1939)

A classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age—but also a blatant whitewash of slavery and the Civil War. Its nostalgic, idealized portrait of the Old South has long been subject to scathing attack, and in 2020, HBO Max even briefly withdrew it. While some regard it as a cinematic landmark, others regard it as an artifact best explained, not revered.

2. Last Tango in Paris (1972)

This movie’s legacy only declined with time, not due to the story itself, but because of what transpired off-screen. Actress Maria Schneider divulged that the notorious rape scene was not scripted and traumatized her, relating she felt “a little raped” by Marlon Brando as well as the director. It is a dark reminder that actual exploitation cannot be justified as “just art.”

1. The Birth of a Nation (1915)

No movie has aged more calamitously—or done worse harm. Feted in its day for its technical innovations, D.W. Griffith’s film also romanticized the Ku Klux Klan and was used as a tool of propaganda that directly contributed to the Klan’s rebirth. It’s not only outdated; it’s harmful, and a sobering reminder of the way in which cinema can be used to perpetuate hate.

Rewatching old movies can be fun—but it can also be jarring. Some films show us how far we’ve come, while others remind us how blind pop culture once was to serious issues. From bad CGI to deeply harmful stereotypes, these 10 prove that not every classic deserves a comeback.

Let’s be real: beloved dramas are experts at making things new—except nothing throws the model for a loop like a shock guest appearance. Whether it’s a Hollywood icon stealing the scene in an interrogation cell or a surprise visit on a hospital floor, both NCIS and Chicago Med have created fans with indelible “did that just really happen?” moments. Take a trip back at 10 guest stars who didn’t just show up— they owned their episodes.

10. Zac Efron (NCIS, Season 3)

A pre-High School Musical teen, Zac Efron, made a blink-and-you-missed-it cameo on NCIS. The episode aired shortly before High School Musical launched him into fame, so the cameo feels like an under-the-radar Easter egg for sharp-eyed viewers. It’s the kind of nod you can boast about spotting. 

9. Corbin Bleu (Chicago Med, Season 3, Episode 8)

Turns out that Efron was not the only High School Musical alum making her way into the franchise universe. Corbin Bleu guest-starred on Chicago Med as Tommy Oliver, a young guy who thought he had a small medical issue, but was diagnosed with life-changing news. Known for singing and dancing, Bleu proved that he could also deliver the drama.

8. Michelle Obama (NCIS, Season 13, Episode 13)

Talk star power—the First Lady herself showed up on the cast for a show that was taped at the White House. Playing herself, Michelle Obama took the opportunity to promote her Joining Forces initiative, which assisted military families. It was not a cameo—it was a moment of culture, making NCIS the first-ever drama produced within 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

7. Betty Buckley (Chicago Med, Season 2, Episode 5)

Broadway legend Betty Buckley stopped by Chicago Med with a heartbreaking turn as Olga Barlow, a woman struggling with poverty who resorted to eating pet food. What could have been played as odd or quirky turned into a gut-wrenching, unforgettable performance—exactly what you’d expect from a Tony winner.

6. Billy Dee Williams (NCIS, Season 10, Episode 5)

You can bet that when Billy Dee Williams shows up, it’s going to be something special. The Star Wars legend played Leroy Jethro Moore, the same man Gibbs was actually named after. His storyline had to do with tardy respect shown to veterans, but asking questions regarding race, loyalty, and friendship as well, all in a manner befitting an iconic Hollywood legend.

5. Malcolm McDowell (Chicago Med, Season 3, Episode 9)

Prestige casting in its finest form. Malcolm McDowell, who emerged with A Clockwork Orange, appeared as Dr. Marvin Jaffrey, a brilliant surgeon with a deadly prognosis. His exchanges with Dr. Ava Bekker were a study in pride, vulnerability, and gravitas, a reminder of why he is one of the finest working actors. 

4. Jamie Lee Curtis (NCIS, Season 9)

Jamie Lee Curtis did not cameo—she inserted herself into Gibbs’ world. As Dr. Samantha Ryan, head of PsyOps, Curtis brought brains, wit, and surprise romance to the mix. Her multi-episode arc had fireworks bursting, and her dramatic exit had fans wishing her presence there longer.

3. Alexandra Grey (Chicago Med, Seasons 2 & 4)

Alexandra Grey’s Denise Lockwood was not a guest appearance—it was an emotional journey. As Maggie’s sister, she added some much-needed depth to topics such as gender transition, family acceptance, and internal struggle. Grey’s performance was interesting, nuanced, and one of the most buzzed-about storylines on the show.

2. Bob Newhart (NCIS, Season 8, Episode 12)

Comedy great Bob Newhart guest-starred as Dr. Walter Magnus, Ducky’s superior. At first, his deadpan was a welcome relief, but the episode took a dark turn when it was revealed that his character had Alzheimer’s. It was bittersweet, with classic Newhart timing and an emotional farewell.

1. Millie Bobby Brown (NCIS, Season 12)

It was only after Stranger Things catapulted her to stardom that teenager Millie Bobby Brown guest-starred on NCIS as Rachel, a child with a dirty little secret. Her chilling performance caught viewers’ attention—teasers that she would be one of the most talked-about young stars of Hollywood.

From new superstars to old timers, NCIS and Chicago Med guest spots have coaxed out some of the best in TV drama’s twisty moments. These cameos weren’t stunt casting — they added complexity, emotional resonance, and lasting moments that left viewers buzzing long after the credits rolled.

If you are a DC fan, then you have probably been waiting in absolute anticipation for Peacemaker Season 2 like kids waiting for Halloween. We had what seemed like an eternity to wait for James Gunn’s quirky anti-hero tale to come back to HBO Max, but now here it is, once more sharing John Cena’s comedic but poignant destruction with the world.

The major thing that gets me pumped for this time, besides the return of Peacemaker himself, is the crazy mixture of new and familiar faces that are having a profoundly influential impact on the DCU. The first that comes to mind when we think about the 10 greatest characters that made the new season a must-view, counting from 10 to 1, are: presenting them in a countdown from 10 to 1, we have the 10 greatest characters that made Season 2 a must-view, DCU.

10. Rick Flag Sr.

Frank Grillo plays Rick Flag Sr., a tough-talking A.R.G.U.S. commander with a chip on his shoulder. The death of his son in The Suicide Squad sets him on a collision course with Peacemaker. His no-nonsense command line and enraged backstory bring some serious heat to the squad dynamic.

9. Maxwell Lord

Sean Gunn is the astute billionaire who operates behind the scenes. As a financier of the Justice Gang, Lord decides whether Peacemaker’s actions are heroic or irresponsible. He holds himself responsible for all that he does and believes that he has an ulterior motive.

8. Hawkgirl

Isabela Merced soars as Hawkgirl, headlining the rebooted Justice Gang flashbacks. She brings a signal towards Gunn’s broader DC ambitions—and fans are already guessing the crossovers she’ll bring.

7. Guy Gardner (Green Lantern)

Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner is the wisecracking and irreverent Green Lantern. His humorous back-and-forth with Peacemaker reads so Gunn. And the debut teases bigger Lantern stories to come.

6. Mr. Terrific

Edi Gathegi’s brilliant hero makes a shadowy entrance during the flashback sequence. While his role is small for now, Mr. Terrific’s tactical mind and advanced tech practically guarantee he’ll become a major player as the DCU expands.

5. Supergirl

Milly Alcock initially appears as Supergirl, appearing after Superman and Mr. Terrific in the retconned flashback. She’s back to mark that Gunn is now technically cross-breeding the Kryptonian line in his universe, which will lead to some interesting things.

4. Superman

David Corenswet dons the cape as the DCU’s Superman in place of Cavill in the revised flashback. It’s a welcome and brief cameo, solidly grounding Peacemaker in Gunn’s larger plans for the franchise.

3. Judomaster

Nhut Le’s hotheaded Judomaster returns, this time battling alongside Economos rather than against him. His martial arts ability, sharp tongue, and ever-changing allegiances leave viewers speculating—and chuckling—each time he appears on-screen.

2. Vigilante

Freddie Stroma steals the scene again as Vigilante, the self-destructive, dark humor best friend Peacemaker can’t seem to avoid, but definitely doesn’t need. His ridiculously over-the-top loyalty and adorably dodgy sense of humor make every scene with him worth watching.

1. Peacemaker (Christopher Smith)

John Cena’s helmeted antihero is still the focal point of the show. He’s confronted with even wackier challenges this season—battling alternate versions of himself, his dad, and so on. His arc at its base is still one of redemption, coping with trauma, and redefining “peace”—served up with Gunn’s ideal blend of zaniness, brutality, and surprise heart.

Season 2 confirms that Peacemaker is not another superhero series—it’s a crazy, passionate, and laugh-out-loud zany trip through the most bizarre and wacky corners of the DCU. With this cast of characters, I’m expecting action, comedy, and some surprises along the way that’ll have you hooked on your screen.

Sherlock Holmes is the most chameleon-like character in popular culture. He has been a dashing New Yorker, a Tokyo woman in a suit—and yes, it works every time. Not everyone has served the great detective’s heart, brains, and sense of humor. So, who did the deerstalker justice? Let’s count down the 10 greatest Holmes performances, from good to legendary.

10. Jonny Lee Miller — Elementary (2012–2019)

Sherlock Holmes’ move to today’s New York City was a risk, but one so worth taking with Jonny Lee Miller. His take on Holmes has the detective tattooed, quirky, sober from addiction, and astonishingly sensitive under the genius. What distinguishes Miller is how ordinary his detective looks—gritty but earthy, flawed but empathetically amazing. He’s the Holmes you can picture both as a child prodigy and as a pal.

9. Christopher Plummer — Murder by Decree (1979)

Plummer’s Holmes is a smoldering ember. With eyes afire with restless astuteness and purposefulness in this bleak reinterpretation of the Holmes canon linked to the Jack the Ripper murder case investigation, there’s something in his performance—a hunger for justice—that makes his detective interesting. It’s an overlooked but lasting performance in the part.

8. Ronald Howard — Sherlock Holmes (1954–1955)

With nearly four decades of programs behind him, Ronald Howard gave a more affable, light Holmes. His detective is considerate of polite manners, affable, and particularly courteous to H. Marion Crawford’s Watson. His interpretation of the show emphasizes the buddy-ship in the middle of Doyle’s stories, depicting Holmes as not just a lone mastermind but also a good buddy.

7. Yūko Takeuchi — Miss Sherlock (2018)

Why not a female Holmes? Yūko Takeuchi delivered a dazzling reinvention in HBO Asia’s Miss Sherlock. Elegant, aloof, and razor-sharp, her detective is as stylish as she is brilliant. Her dynamic with Shihori Kanjiya’s “Wato” updates the Holmes–Watson bond with both sass and sincerity. Takeuchi’s performance is bold, riveting, and a reminder that Sherlock doesn’t need to fit a mold.

6. Vasily Livanov — The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson (1980–1987)

Vasily Livanov in the Soviet Union became the archetypal Holmes. His own pointed features and precise mannerisms served him well, but most impressive was the feeling behind the mask. Livanov’s Holmes never hesitated to display emotion, and his rapport with his Watson ensured that the show became highly popular far outside Russia.

5. Benedict Cumberbatch — Sherlock (2010–2017)

Cumberbatch’s Holmes was the buzz of the early 2010s. Witty, snappy, and crudely social, his detective landed a punch into the BBC’s techno-savvy modern reimagining. The repartee with Martin Freeman’s Watson anchored the series, warming what could otherwise have been icy and austere to become warm and endearing. Cumberbatch provided us with a Holmes who was exasperating and fascinating.

4. Douglas Wilmer — Sherlock Holmes (1964–1965)

Douglas Wilmer emerged out of Sidney Paget’s initial drawings for Holmes, seemingly out of magic. Lanky, eagle-eyed, and dominant, his detective was oozing assurance and haughtiness. He was Holmes incarnate, the ultimate careerist: tough-around-the-edges, demanding, and unshakable in focus. To most people, Wilmer is nearest to the book’s vision of Holmes.

3. Arthur Wontner — Sherlock Holmes’ Fatal Hour (1931) and others

Arthur Wontner lent warmth and nuance to the part in a series of films during the 1930s. Gentle but unwatered down, his Holmes broached the detective’s genius without slipping into caricature. Resolutely naturalistic, with a lived-in feel, Wontner created an early standard for what Holmes on film must—and could—basically feel like.

2. Basil Rathbone — The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939) and beyond

For a century, Basil Rathbone was Sherlock Holmes. He played him in fourteen movies, rendering him a commanding, intelligent, and self-sure Holmes. His interpretation became the cultural benchmark, establishing the way people imagined the detective to be for generations to come. Rathbone wasn’t merely great—stating nothing against later actors—conceptually fundamental.

1. Jeremy Brett — The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (1984–1994)

And Jeremy Brett, the favorite hero of ill fans everywhere, was the greatest Holmes of them all. Gritty, hyper, and gloriously untethered, his acting balanced on the fine line between icily controlled and hysterically violent bursts of energy. Brett clung to Holmes’s mannerisms—his disguises, his guffawing fits, his kinetic brilliance—grounding them in the real world. If there’s a last judgment on Holmes yet to be written, this is it. Case closed.

From traditional renderings to revolutionary reinterpretations, these actors show Sherlock Holmes to be eternally malleable but never fascinating. Regardless of what your taste, old-school, new-school, or transgressive, all of these portrayals demonstrate why Holmes continues to fascinate—and why the game is never afoot.

Let’s be real: it’s not an easy task to find a program that pleases both children and parents. Children like adventure and entertainment, and parents are praying for something lively, calming, and not absolutely brain-numbing. The good news? Some programs can strike gold. They’re amusing, amusing, intelligent, and interesting enough for all of us to appreciate. Here’s the countdown of 10 family-friendly TV shows that provide more than background noise—they’re actually worth sitting down to watch with the family.

10. Blue’s Clues

Blue’s Clues remains an interesting blend of puzzles, songs, and a calming host guiding kids through each episode, even after all these years. With Blue the dog providing paw print clues, kids develop observation and solving abilities in synch. Parents will appreciate the peaceful tempo, and those with nostalgia for the retro era will not get bored with Steve’s warm smile.

9. The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Few shows are so innocent and pure as this one. With soft animation and timeless tales, Pooh and his friends learn about cooperation, fantasy, and kindness in the Hundred Acre Wood. Kids are taught nicely without whacking them over the head, and adults get a shiver of nostalgia watching these old friends come to life.

8. Curious George

George’s insatiable curiosity invites simple but compelling storytelling. Each show is all about learning, playful mischief, and kind lessons picked up along the way. The mood is lighthearted, animation bright, and tales involving, doing justice without being heavy. Great for children—and for parents seeking a bit of sanity insurance for kids’ TV.

7. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood

Carrying on in the spirit of Mister Rogers, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is committed to assisting children through actual life and actual feelings. Catchy songs and gentle stories, Daniel instructs children how to regulate giant feelings or step beyond safety zones. Parents will adore the series’ consistent, reassuring tone and the manner in which it generates empathy and self-esteem.

6. Tumble Leaf

This stop-motion series is a treasure. As new things are found by Fig the fox and he plays with them, Tumble Leaf weaves in gentle science and imagination lessons and gently shows them to us. Its serene visuals and smooth pace make it a relaxing choice for those families looking for something both educational and beautiful.

5. Trash Truck

Sometimes the greatest ideas are the simplest. Trash Truck is about a boy, Hank, and his unlikely best buddy—a giant garbage truck. Their small adventures are calm, relaxing, and creative, with a focus on wonder instead of battles. It’s slow, calm, and comforting—perfect for preschoolers to relax.

4. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Years later, Fred Rogers is still the best. Kind, patient, and honest, Mister Rogers provided a haven where children learned to deal with emotions and feel themselves to be of value. The daily routines and slow tempo are comforting in a manner that most shows today don’t even attempt to do, so this is a selection that holds up to repeated viewings with co-viewing.

3. Bluey

This Australian classic is a worldwide phenomenon—and for a very good reason. Bluey takes a brood of blue heeler pups through the ups and downs of everyday life in a way that’s side-splitting, tear-jerking, and somehow profound. Children enjoy the fantasy play, but parents are chuckling at the subtle humor or weeping at the show’s emotional moments. It’s one of the few “children’s shows” parents actually look forward to.

2. Avatar: The Last Airbender

If people are going to compare children’s shows, then the children slightly older would also think that Avatar is the best of all. Humor, action, and one very rich storyline are aspects that the show has, and thus it is fascinating and simultaneously extremely serious and layered. Aang’s search for global harmony is filled with universal virtues – friendship, courage, and forgiveness- and persons like Uncle Iroh provide the television series with one of the wisest and most brilliant role models. It is not, however, a “children’s show” – it is a masterclass in storytelling.

1. Gravity Falls

Gravity Falls tops this list and wins hands down by balancing humor, mystery, and heart, a nd keeping it simple but incomparable. Twin siblings Mabel and Dipper spend their summer solving the supernatural mysteries in a zany town filled with chaos. Aside from that, the humor is also multilayered; adults can mock some witty references hidden in there that they can understand alone, and kids can enjoy some giggles from the goofy romping of it. Aside from being smart, creative, and surprisingly sentimental, it is perfectly suitable for family film nights.

Screen time works best wheit’sts intentional. The Canadian Paediatric Society suggests that the time spent should not go more than roughly an hour per day for kids younger than five, with all of them watching the same show. Learning through watching together is what makes it linger on, and turning a TV made of mere watching as a show into a discussion topic, and even into a method of avoiding zoning out on the sofa.

10 of the shows are guaranteed to be the family time spent watching television does not have to be a sacrifice. They are both new and enjoyable for all, for home movie night, picking a show, and some real family time.

War movies are ubiquitous, but no war has been so relentlessly probed on screen as Vietnam. To veterans, to historians, to audiences: authenticity counts. The finest Vietnam War films recreate battles, but not just that—they capture the sweat, fear, disorder, and psychological cost that characterized the experience. Those are the movies most commonly credited for getting the details right and avoiding the glamorization of war. Here’s our list of the 10 most real Vietnam War movies, ranging from gritty fails of conscience to unforgettable portrayals of war.

10. Casualties of War (1989)

Brian De Palma’s Casualties of War is not as much an action film as a gut-churning moral drama. Based on a true event, it recounts a unit that abducts and murders a young Vietnamese woman, with Michael J. Fox playing the single soldier who attempts to stay out of it. Grisly and unromanticized, the film refrains from glorifying violence and rather emphasizes the moral breakdown war may create.

9. Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Spike Lee pushed the boundaries by making Da 5 Bloods about the lesser-known narratives of Black veterans. The film tracks four aging comrades back to Vietnam to reclaim both the remains of their deceased commander and buried gold. By combining flashbacks, documentary segments, and contemporary strife, it grapples with memory, trauma, and how the war influenced a generation. Using the same older actors in the flashbacks makes its raw emotional impact even heavier.

8. Rescue Dawn (2006)

Werner Herzog’s Rescue Dawn is a grueling survival tale drawn from the real-life experience of Navy pilot Dieter Dengler, who was shot down over Laos. Christian Bale’s performance conveys both the physical toll of POW life and the psychological anguish of captivity. Herzog’s documentary background gives the film a reduced-scale realism that makes you suffer every second of Dengler’s torment.

7. The Deer Hunter (1978)

Michael Cimino’s The Deer Hunter is as much concerned with the consequences of war as with war itself. Tracing the lives of three steelworkers from Pennsylvania before, during, and after Vietnam, the film is best recalled for its eerie depiction of trauma and survival. Though not every aspect is historically accurate, its emotional truthfulness—particularly in illustrating how war redefines lives forever—resounds deeply. 

6. Born on the Fourth of July (1989)

Oliver Stone’s Born on the Fourth of July is the biographical account of Ron Kovic, a Marine wounded and paralysed in Vietnam who rose to become an influential anti-war crusader. Tom Cruise gives a performance that ranks among his finest, illustrating the disillusionment and rage of a betrayed soldier who is abandoned by his country. Military historians have complimented its accuracy in capturing how lax command and poor discipline resulted in catastrophic losses for civilians.

5. Apocalypse Now (1979)

Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now is fantasized and surreal, but its Vietnam feels horribly real. With its famous “Ride of the Valkyries” helicopter attack and its free fall into madness in Kurtz’s jungle lair, the film takes in the confusion, moral uncertainty, and psychological disintegration that characterized the war. Not an actual history, perhaps, but it gets the atmosphere of uncertainty and fear exactly right.

4. Full Metal Jacket (1987)

Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket is divided into two: the brutal cruelty of Marine boot camp and the horror of battle in Vietnam. The first half, directed by R. Lee Ermey’s unforgettable drill sergeant, has been praised by Marines as the most realistic portrayal of military training ever filmed. The second half illustrates how that training dehumanizes soldiers, stripping them bare to survive as war instruments.

3. We Were Soldiers (2002)

According to Harold Moore and Joseph Galloway’s novelized book on the Battle of Ia Drang, We Were Soldiers dramatizes the initial serious confrontation between American and North Vietnamese troops. Mel Gibson plays Moore, taking his troops into mayhem. Although Moore himself acknowledged the movie was not more than 60–80% historically precise, both Moore and his troops gave it high marks for authenticity in presenting conditions of war and the humanity on either side.

2. Platoon (1986)

Oliver Stone, a Vietnam veteran himself, wrote and directed one of the most honest depictions of the war. Defying Hollywood’s gung-ho treatments of the war, the film plunges the viewer into the moral complexity of platoon warfare. With guidance from Dale Dye, a retired Marine lieutenant, the film made concessions to style in the name of realism, and veterans have universally praised its raw realism and emotional truth.

1. Hamburger Hill (1987)

John Irvin’s Hamburger Hill is the most grueling Vietnam War film ever produced. Filming the gory 1969 battle for Hill 937, it captures not just the combat but the drudgery, exhaustion, and pointless casualty rates of American troops. Screenwriter James Carabatsos interviewed troops for years to build realism into each sequence, from booby traps to ugly hardware. Historian Bill Allison called it one of the most realistic depictions of the brutality of the war. If you would like to go through what the troops went through, this is the one.

Vietnam War films aren’t about action—though they might be—they’re about memory, trauma, and truth. These 10 films are significant in that they pull no punches, not glossing over war as spectacle, but instead showing the dark, terror, and humanity of those who lived it.

Marvel Studios has never done well on subtlety, but Phase 5 was a rollercoaster ride rather than any previous chapter. We had billion-dollar films along with cringe-worthy flops, critical darlings followed by experiences fans would rather erase from their memory. With Phase 5 complete and Phase 6 getting underway in style, it’s time to take a step back and reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and which moments defined this chapter. Here are the ten largest lows and highs of Marvel’s Phase 5—beginning with the missteps before reaching the peaks.

10. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania – A Small Disappointment

Phase 5 got underway with Quantumania, which was meant to be the Multiverse Saga’s grand launch. Instead, it proved to be one of Marvel’s poorest openers, grossing just $476 million worldwide and landing a pathetic 46% on Rotten Tomatoes. From shaky CGI (sorry, MODOK), over-stuffed comedy, to anemic stakes, it left many fans questioning whether the MCU had lost its magic.

9. Captain America: Brave New World – New Hero, Old Issues

Sam Wilson formally succeeded Captain America as the Star-Spangled Man with a Plan, but his initial solo adventure wasn’t the victory Marvel was hoping for. The movie posted a robust $100 million domestic start, but lackluster responses (48% Tomatometer, “B-” CinemaScore) kept it from flying. Critics cited zippy pacing, awkward callbacks, and excessive plot stuffed into inadequate time. Though diverse crowds came and premium screens added to the box office, the film lacked endurance.

8. The Marvels – The MCU Hits Rock Bottom

Though having fun chemistry between its stars, The Marvels became one of Marvel’s largest box office flops in history, earning a paltry $206 million globally. With a mediocre 62% on Rotten Tomatoes, fans and critics pointed to an underwhelming villain, sloppy tone, and another lackluster round of VFX. For a film that had the potential to be daring, it turned out to be one of the MCU’s most flat attempts.

7. Secret Invasion – A Skrull-Sized Misfire

Secret Invasion hyped high stakes and intrigue, but delivered one of Marvel’s most forgettable Disney+ ventures. With a53% critics’ score and a still lower 43% audience score, it was mocked for predictable plots, jarring pacing, and disappointing payoffs. The twist that Rhodey had been a secret Skrull since Civil War only infuriated fans more.

6. Echo – Bold, Grounded, but Uneven

Echo was also notable for its portrayal and darker tone, with Alaqua Cox standing out as Maya Lopez. The show had a decent 70% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics lauding it for its representation of Native American culture and unfiltered action. However, inconsistent storytelling and technical issues prevented it from living up to its potential. Its unconventional binge-watch release also polarized audiences—some adored it, while others complained that the five episodes were shortened.

5. Ironheart – Unfinished but Heartfelt

Wrapping up Phase 5 on Disney+, Ironheart featured Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) and explored grief, resilience, and identity. It received good reviews from critics (86%) but was less well-received by audiences, who only gave it 55% approval. Good performances couldn’t quite make up for pacing issues or the feeling that the show existed to lay the groundwork for upcoming MCU entries rather than to present a finished product.

4. Daredevil: Born Again – The Devil Returns

Charlie Cox’s complete return as Daredevil lived up to years of fan expectation. Darker, bloodier, and even dropping the MCU’s first F-bomb, the show went all-in on its mature rating. Though it was uneven in spots due to behind-the-scenes creative upheavals, it found success with critics (87%) and audiences (80%). With Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin once again in the fold, the show also cemented the Netflix Defenders saga as part of the MCU canon.

3. Thunderbolts – Critical Favorite, Box Office Flop

Thunderbolts made it to one of the most acclaimed Marvel movies of all time, with an 88% critics rating and a record 93% audience score. Florence Pugh, David Harbour, and Lewis Pullman gave warm performances, and the film took everyone by surprise by exploring mental health issues hardly ever addressed in superhero movies. Sadly, its low $382 million box office revenue showed that critical success isn’t always synonymous with profits.

2. Deadpool & Wolverine – R-Rated Gold

If Marvel needed proof that it still had the box office in its sights, Deadpool & Wolverine delivered it in spades. With Reynolds and Jackman back to their best, the MCU’s first R-rated outing broke records—$1.3 billion at the international box office, the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. Viewers loved its crazy blend of meta jokes and multiverse chaos, as seen by their 94% rating. The critics (78%) weren’t as consistent in their love, but fans celebrated it as one.

1. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 – Gunn’s Emotional Finale

James Gunn’s goodbye to the Guardians proved to be the icing on the cake for Phase 5. 82% on Metacritic and 94% from fans, the movie was able to reach the viewer’s heart in total while still providing the intended spectacle and humor. The blending of family, sacrifice, and even the question of animal cruelty allowed the movie to transcend the standard Marvel fare and yet still fare well with an $845 million global take. It wasn’t just a good Marvel film—it was a bittersweet farewell to a fan-favorite team.

Honorable Mentions – Animation Steals the Spotlight

While the live-action franchise stole the headlines, Marvel Animation snuck in and out unnoticed with the best of the entire period. X-Men ’97 shocked with near across-the-board praise (99% critics, 91% audience), and Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man re-imagined Peter Parker’s origin for younger viewers to an excellent 97%. In the distance on the horizon, The Fantastic Four: First Steps has already set the bar as Phase 6’s opening act, recording-breaking previews and a promising early reaction.

Phase 5 could have had some of the lows Marvel has ever experienced, but it also demonstrated that the studio is willing to take a risk—be it going R-rated, reconnecting fans with familiar favorites, or taking animated productions to greater heights. If anything, it also demonstrated that the MCU still has a very sufficient amount of surprises left in the tank.

As James Gunn takes the DC Universe in a fearless new direction, each casting choice is enormous. One of the characters fans can’t help but theorize about is Deathstroke, the tragic supervillain and master assassin. Slade Wilson is not merely another sword-wielding murderer—he’s a tactician, a father figure, and one of the most complex characters in the DC canon. So the question is: who has the presence, the talent, and the edge to bring him to life on screen? Here are ten stars that might kill it as Deathstroke in the DCU.

10. Joe Manganiello: A Second Chance

Joe Manganiello already dressed up as Deathstroke in Zack Snyder’s Justice League, but he never actually got to really flesh out the character. With his hulking physique and action-packed CV, Manganiello seems made to order for Slade Wilson. Bringing him back would be a pleasing full-circle experience—and an opportunity for him to finally play Deathstroke as the fans have always dreamed.

9. Josh Duhamel: From Two-Face to Deathstroke

Josh Duhamel may not be the first name on everyone’s list, but he’s familiar in Gotham. He’s already done Harvey Dent/Two-Face in Batman: The Long Halloween, and aside from that, his Transformers and Jupiter’s Legacy work shows that he can do large-scale action movies. With a good guide, he would be able to turn both gravity and sympathy into Slade.

8. Scott Adkins: The Martial Arts Powerhouse

If the DCU is looking to make Deathstroke the ultimate hand-to-hand combatant, Scott Adkins should get the call. Having performed jaw-dropping fight choreography in movies such as Undisputed II and John Wick: Chapter 4, Adkins would provide the most physically real Deathstroke to date, making each fight a highlight reel moment.

7. John Cho: The Curveball Choice

John Cho is not the first actor on mind for fans, but he possesses the acting chops to catch everyone off guard. From the emotional terrain of Searching to the action of Star Trek, Cho might bring Slade’s troubled conscience as well as his lethal precision to life. A softer, fatherly Deathstroke would make him stand out from the rest.

6. Nikolaj Coster-Waldau: From Jaime Lannister to Slade Wilson

As Jaime Lannister on Game of Thrones, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau had already shown he can bring a morally ambiguous character to life. With his charm, sword-fighting abilities, and weight, he’d be a natural fit as an older, battle-hardened Deathstroke who’s seen his fair share of wars—and isn’t finished yet.

5. Anson Mount: Is Due for a Superhero Reboot

Following the dud that was Inhumans, Anson Mount is owed a proper attempt at comic book stardom. His authoritative voice and presence in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds demonstrate that he has both the ability to inspire and intimidate. As Deathstroke, he might have the ideal combination of menace and gravitas.

4. Manu Bennett: The Fan-Favorite Return

Arrowverse viewers are already familiar with what Manu Bennett has to offer in the part. His Deathstroke was complex, emotional, and dangerously deep. Picking him up and bringing him into the DCU would be fan service and a wise decision, as viewers would get a Slade they already know can deliver.

3. Timothy Olyphant: Smooth, Deadly, and Charismatic

Few actors combine charm and menace as well as Timothy Olyphant. From Justified to Hitman, he’s had a career playing quick-witted antiheroes and villains. As Slade Wilson, he might be able to bring a version of Deathstroke who is just as charismatic in dialogue as he is frightening on the battlefield.

2. Djimon Hounsou: Commanding Presence

Djimon Hounsou has consistently had supporting roles in superhero movies, but he would be worth letting take center stage. His deep voice and expressive range would be a forceful, older Deathstroke—a man who’s heard it all but is still the most lethal mercenary on the planet.

1. Jensen Ackles: The Bold Choice

Jensen Ackles has already demonstrated that he can play violent, imperfect, but charismatic characters with his role as Soldier Boy in The Boys. He has the physicality, charm, and intensity to make Deathstroke a fan-favorite anti-hero. And to boot, his pre-existing fanbase would certainly come out in support of him if he were offered the role.

No matter who James Gunn and team decide, Deathstroke’s debut in the DCU is sure to be a turning point. The only question is: which actor will don the eyepatch and take up the mantle of DC’s deadliest assassin?

Worse for fans is to witness a promising career ruined before it ever truly did have the chance to be all it could be. Hollywood and the entertainment world have lost their share of talent too soon—talent that was able to make their impact, even though their moment in the sun was shortened. The following are 15 young stars who died young, under the age of 30, and left behind a legacy that still inspires, haunts, and touches us today.

15. Chance Perdomo (27)

Breaking into stardom on Gen V and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Chance Perdomo was an enormously gifted actor with boundless potential. His life was ironically brought to a halt in a 2024 motorcycle accident. Rather than recasting his role on Gen V, the show’s producers reworked the story to pay tribute to his memory—a sad dedication to a career full of promise.

14. Cameron Boyce (20)

A Disney Channel original show, Cameron Boyce stole hearts on Jessie and in the Descendants franchise of films. He died of a seizure brought about by epilepsy in 2019, sending shockwaves through fans all over the world. His last Descendants movie came out after his death, so his death hit close to the heart for the generation of viewers who grew up watching him.

13. Anton Yelchin (27)

Having completed Star Trek, Like Crazy, and Hearts in Atlantis, Anton Yelchin was fully on his way to building a whimsical CV. Tragedy intervened, though, when he died in 2016, crushed by a car against a gate. Tributes rained down upon his depth and range, and he remains alive as a reminder of missed talent.

12. Angus Cloud (25)

As Fezco on HBO’s Euphoria, Angus Cloud infused authenticity and heart into one of TV’s most scorching shows. His accidental overdose death in 2023 was contentious, fueling controversy over addiction and mental illness in Hollywood. Fans lament him as one of the few tough-around-the-edges talents who infused intensity into every scene.

11. Heath Ledger (28)

From Oscar-winning, dramatic films to romantic comedies, Heath Ledger appeared to be capable of anything. His breakthrough role as the Joker in The Dark Knight solidified his status as a generation star. His tragic death in 2008 due to an accidental overdose of prescription medication stunned the world, leaving us guessing what other genius he had in store for us.

10. Brandon Lee (28)

Bruce Lee’s son, Brandon Lee, was a virtual shoo-in for superstardom in The Crow. He was fatally shot on the set in 1993 by an accidental prop gun discharge, a tragedy that continues to shadow Hollywood. His Crow would both debut and kill him, a tragic reminder of what could have been.

9. River Phoenix (23)

With his iconic roles in Stand by Me and My Own Private Idaho, River Phoenix was the best actor of his generation. His sudden death in 1993 outside the Viper Room shocked Hollywood, and fans lamented the loss of a talent who was destined to be great.

8. Aaliyah (22)

A music and film legend, Aaliyah was just getting started when she perished in a plane crash in 2001. The songwriter of such hits as “Are You That Somebody” and star of Romeo Must Die and Queen of the Damned, she had an impact that continues to influence R&B and pop culture.

7. Jimi Hendrix (27)

Arguably the greatest rock guitarist ever, Jimi Hendrix transformed the sound of music. His sudden death in 1970 at age 2 made him a legend, his brief career inspiring numerous artists of every kind.

6. Janis Joplin (27)

Janis Joplin’s raw, powerful voice made her the voice of the late ’60s. Privately, she struggled with addiction, and her 1970 heroin overdose cut short a career that was already redefining rock music. She is still a woman’s pioneer.

5. Kurt Cobain (27)

Kurt Cobain was the frontman for Nirvana. He gave voice to a generation. His 1994 suicide was a cultural phenomenon and a heartbreaking loss. Cobain is still a rock icon and a face of fame in public life, and a struggler with mental illness.

4. Amy Winehouse (27)

With her raw, youthful voice to match the rawness of her lyrics, Amy Winehouse redefined soul music for the modern era. She was widely known and documented for her addiction, and her 2011 alcohol poisoning death was tragic but foreseen. Her music, though, remains.

3. James Dean (24)

The icon of the rebellion of the 1950s, James Dean’s performances in Rebel Without a Cause and East of Eden, cemented his status as a cultural icon. His on-screen death in a motor vehicle accident in 1955 embedded him in the popular psyche as the personification of rebellion for young people and random tragedy.

2. Sharon Tate (26)

Rising star of a young woman named Sharon Tate was brutally murdered by the Manson Family in 1969, while eight months pregnant. Her senseless murder was one of Hollywood’s darkest moments, overshadowing her rising career but leaving her remembered with honor. 

1. The 27 Club

From Hendrix and Joplin to Cobain and Winehouse, popular culture’s so-called “27 Club” is probably its most unsettling trend. All of these artists had such phenomenal ability, early success, and premature death at the same age. Their stories are cautionary ones, but also a reminder of just exactly how profoundly their music continues to affect us.

The loss of these young stars is a reminder of the brevity of life—and fame. No matter how brief their visitation, their legacy left behind is monumental, and the contribution they made to music, films, and pop culture can be seen today. They may have departed, but their labor ensures they are never forgotten.