A horror movie is causing a sensation at the box office! "Obsession" is currently winning over both critics and horror fans alike. What makes it special: According to reports, the film's budget was only around $750,000. However, that didn't stop "Obsession" from becoming a real box office hit. Here you'll find all the details on the plot and box office numbers!

Record-breaking numbers at the box office

The low-budget film is currently earning many times over its production costs. "Obsession" was released in the United States (and many other countries) on June 15. In just over a week, the movie has already grossed around $35 million worldwide. Industry insiders are even speculating that the film could earn more during its second weekend than it did in its opening weekend — something that is considered highly unusual.

At the moment, "Obsession" sits at the top of the U.S. box office charts, outperforming major titles such as "Michael," "The Devil Wears Prada 2," and "Mortal Kombat 2". According to industry magazine Forbes, no film with such a low budget has dominated the U.S. box office charts in 17 years. The last time this happened was in 2009 with "Paranormal Activity," another horror film.

Here's what Obsession is about

In "Obsession," hopeless romantic Bear (Michael Johnston) uses a "One-Wish Willow" to win over his crush Nikki (Inde Navarrette). This magical object grants wishes when broken. At first, he seems to get exactly what he's always wanted. But he soon realizes that some wishes come at a dark, sinister price. Behind the film is 26-year-old YouTuber Curry Barker. The director first gained attention with his short films. Here you can watch the trailer!

Fans and critics are raving

Everywhere you look, "Obsession" is being showered with praise. A glance at popular movie platforms best illustrates its high popularity: On IMDb, "Obsession" currently boasts a strong rating of 8.2/10. On Letterboxd, the rating is 4.2/5—putting "Obsession" at number 15 on the list of the highest-rated horror films of all time! Critics are equally impressed. The score on Rotten Tomatoes currently stands at 95%—among both critics and audiences.

Backrooms: Is the next horror hit already on the way?

But "Obsession" isn't the only film that could cause a sensation in theaters this month. "Backrooms" is another film by a young director who first made a splash online with his viral videos.

Here's what Backrooms is about

Clark (Chiwetel Ejiofor), the owner of a run-down furniture store, discovers an invisible door in the basement of his shop. Soon he becomes obsessed with uncovering the secret behind it and confides in his psychologist, Dr. Mary Kline (Renate Reinsve). When she follows him there, something dark—and dangerous—lurks behind the walls.

The Backrooms Phenomenon

The internet phenomenon known as the "Backrooms" has become one of the most famous modern horror myths online. It all began with an anonymously posted image of empty, yellow-lit office rooms that went viral in internet forums in 2019. From there, the idea evolved into an endless labyrinth of monotonous hallways that people can supposedly enter "through a glitch in reality."

Especially on platforms like Reddit, YouTube, and TikTok, countless stories, videos, and games expanded upon the eerie atmosphere of the Backrooms. The appeal of the phenomenon lies mainly in its blend of isolation and subtle psychological horror. It remains to be seen whether "Backrooms" can generate a similar level of hype as "Obsession."

Time flies: It's been 30 years since the first "Mission: Impossible" hit theaters. Despite the star power of lead actor Tom Cruise, hardly anyone would have expected it to be the start of such a success story. The 1996 film was followed by seven more installments featuring Cruise as secret agent Ethan Hunt. But that's not all: the action film series has, in a sense, become the flagship of Cruise's career. To mark the 30th anniversary, we're taking a look back and revealing what makes the "Mission: Impossible" blockbusters so unique.

Basically, it's thanks to Tom Cruise that the films exist at all. "Mission: Impossible" is based on the TV series of the same name from the 1960s. As a fan of the series, it was Cruise's idea to turn it into a movie. He brought "Scarface" director Brian De Palma on board to helm the project. In less capable hands, the material might have become just another run-of-the-mill action thriller. The choice of De Palma, however, proved to be a stroke of luck. Although the film is primarily tailored to Cruise, the first "Mission: Impossible" film clearly bears the director's signature; he stands in the tradition of suspense master Alfred Hitchcock and, accordingly, has a special knack for effectively creating moments of tension.

Thus, his "Mission: Impossible" adaptation captivates primarily through its elaborate staging, which conjured an unforgettable cinematic moment from a single scene: When Ethan Hunt rappels down from the ceiling while breaking into CIA headquarters, loses control, and barely manages to hover just above the ground.

Legendary Moments

This incredibly thrilling sequence is not only a highlight of the film – it has also become a sort of trademark for the entire series. Thus, all subsequent "Mission: Impossible" installments that followed over the years are characterized by at least one scene that stands out as a larger-than-life moment. Sometimes we saw a spectacular motorcycle duel (in Part 2), sometimes Ethan Hunt jumps off a skyscraper into the abyss (Part 3), and in Part 4 he takes it up a notch as he shimmies along the facade of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. In Parts 5 through 8, Ethan Hunt clung to the exterior of a takeoff-bound transport plane, executed a dramatic parachute jump, raced down a cliff on a motorcycle, and engaged in a dogfight above the clouds on a biplane.

Daring Action Star

What makes it special: The action is all real – and we actually see Tom Cruise instead of a stunt double. The "Mission: Impossible" films have made him one of the biggest action stars in the industry. Hardly any other star of his caliber has dedicated himself so wholeheartedly to the principle of "higher, faster, further" as Cruise has. It makes a huge difference when you can clearly see on screen that he's performing the breakneck stunts himself – it makes the illusion perfect and makes even a larger-than-life hero like Ethan Hunt seem authentic.

Particularly noteworthy is a scene from the eighth installment, "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning," which was released last year and is reportedly intended to serve as the finale of the long-running film series. When Cruise finds himself at a dizzying height on the double-decker plane, battling his opponent, he doesn't just cut a fine figure in terms of action. No, he also delivers a compelling performance, revealing nuances that are impressive given the centrifugal forces acting on him at that moment.

Check it out in the clip below, but be warned: If you don't want any spoilers, you should watch the movie first.

Brian De Palma was just the beginning

In addition to the daring action sequences and Cruise's performance, the "Mission: Impossible" series stands out not least for its choice of directors. Brian De Palma was just the beginning. For the second installment, the series enlisted John Woo, a giant of action cinema. Woo put his own unique stamp on the sequel, at times making the film feel like a spectacularly choreographed action ballet. His vision for "Mission: Impossible" differed significantly from that of his predecessor, De Palma. The change in the director's chair became another hallmark of "Mission: Impossible" – and contributed to the series' appeal in the subsequent installments. Brian De Palma and John Woo were followed first by J. J. Abrams, then Brad Bird, and finally Christopher McQuarrie. The different styles of the respective directors ensured that the franchise remained refreshingly diverse. It wasn't until the fifth installment that the director was retained: Christopher McQuarrie was also set to direct the subsequent installments. As a result, regardless of the filmmaker's qualities, a significant part of the films' appeal was lost.

Will a new director take the helm one day? "The Final Reckoning" is considered the last installment. But who knows: we wouldn't be surprised if "Mission: Impossible" were to be revived. But that's all in the future. Here and now, we congratulate: Happy 30th, Mr. Hunt!

Strong support for Clark Kent! In an interview with the industry magazine Variety, Supergirl actress Milly Alcock revealed that she will be returning for the highly anticipated sequel "Superman: Man of Tomorrow."

However, it is not yet known how extensive her role will actually be. Alcock made her first appearance in the new DC canon as Kara Zor-El at the end of "Superman." She will also star in her own solo adventure on June 26, 2026.

In "Man of Tomorrow", David Corenswet reprises the role of Superman, while Nicholas Hoult plays his archenemy Lex Luthor. But this time, the two face an extraordinary challenge: Faced with the immense threat posed by Brainiac, they are forced to work together. German actor Lars Eidinger has been cast in the role of the DC villain.

In addition to the lead actors, numerous other familiar faces are back in the mix. Among others, Rachel Brosnahan returns as Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, and Nathan Fillion in the role of Guy Gardner. Aaron Pierre as John Stewart and "Andor" star Adria Arjona will also appear. "Man of Tomorrow" hits theaters on July 9, 2027.

Supergirl in Live-Action Films and Series: All Live-Action Appearances of the Famous DC Heroine

Since her introduction in the comics, Supergirl has been one of the most famous heroines in the DC Universe. Kara Zor-El, Superman's cousin, combines the same Kryptonian powers with a personality that is often significantly more emotional and rebellious. Over the decades, she has appeared in numerous live-action films and series – sometimes as the main character, sometimes in guest roles, or as alternative versions of the character. Especially in recent years, Supergirl has become an integral part of modern DC productions.

The first major cinematic appearance: Supergirl (1984)

Supergirl's first major live-action appearance came in 1984 in the film "Supergirl". Helen Slater took on the lead role, becoming the first actress to bring Kara Zor-El to the big screen. The film was a spin-off of the successful Superman series starring Christopher Reeve. In the plot, Kara leaves the isolated community of Argo City after a powerful energy source is lost and reaches Earth. There, she must stand her ground against the witch Selena, played by Faye Dunaway.

Although the film disappointed critics and underperformed at the box office, it has developed cult status over the years. Helen Slater's portrayal, in particular, is still cherished by many fans today. In retrospect, the film is considered an important first step for female superheroes in cinema – ong before modern comic book adaptations dominated the genre.

Supergirl in the Smallville Universe

A new generation was introduced to Supergirl through the hit series "Smallville", which ran from 2001 to 2011 and chronicled the teenage years of Clark Kent. Kara was introduced in the seventh season and played by Laura Vandervoort. This version of the character was portrayed as a self-assured, powerful Kryptonian who initially struggled to adapt to life on Earth. Her relationship with Clark Kent quickly became a central part of the series.

"Smallville" significantly modernized the character and made Supergirl relevant again for many younger viewers. Laura Vandervoort's portrayal is still considered one of the most popular live-action versions of Kara Zor-El.

Her Own Series: Supergirl (2015–2021)

The heroine celebrated her greatest success to date with the series "Supergirl", which premiered in 2015. Melissa Benoist portrayed Kara Danvers over six seasons, cementing the character as a central heroine of modern DC television. The series initially portrayed Kara as a young woman trying to balance her normal life with her superpowers. As the plot unfolded, however, she evolved into a seasoned heroine and protector of National City.

The series was particularly praised for its optimistic tone and the emotional portrayal of the main character. At the same time, it addressed themes such as identity, responsibility, equality, and social exclusion. In addition, "Supergirl" introduced numerous well-known DC characters, including Martian Manhunter, Mon-El, Brainiac 5, and Lex Luthor. Superman himself also made several appearances, played by Tyler Hoechlin.

The Major Arrowverse Crossovers

Melissa Benoist's Supergirl wasn't limited to her own series. She became a central part of the so-called Arrowverse – a shared series universe from DC. Particularly important were the major crossover events such as "Crisis on Earth-X", "Elseworlds", and above all, "Crisis on Infinite Earths". There, Supergirl teamed up with heroes like the Flash, Green Arrow, and Batwoman.

These events cemented Kara's status as one of the most important characters in the TV DC Universe. "Crisis on Infinite Earths" is considered a milestone in particular, as it brought together numerous earlier DC versions and series.

Sasha Calle as Supergirl in The Flash (2023)

In 2023, the character received a new cinematic interpretation in the film "The Flash". There, Sasha Calle played an alternate version of Supergirl within the DC Multiverse. Unlike earlier portrayals, this Kara was significantly more serious and traumatized. She was held captive and isolated by the government before Barry Allen and Batman could free her.

Sasha Calle's performance was widely praised despite the film's mixed reception. Many viewers appreciated the emotional intensity and combative spirit of her version of the character. Even though it remained unclear whether this interpretation would be a long-term part of the DC Universe, it left a lasting impression on fans.

The New DC Universe and Milly Alcock

With the reboot of the DC Universe under James Gunn and Peter Safran, a new era is now beginning for Supergirl as well. Australian actress Milly Alcock will take on the role of Kara Zor-El in the future. She already made her first brief appearance in "Superman", where her relationship with Clark Kent was hinted at. Unlike earlier versions, this interpretation of Supergirl comes across as significantly more impulsive, unpredictable, and emotionally complex.

The upcoming film "Supergirl" is set to further expand her story and establish her as one of the most important characters in the new DC Universe. In the process, she encounters, among others, the intergalactic bounty hunter Lobo. DC Studios is clearly banking on a more modern and character-driven version of the heroine, one that is meant to stand out distinctly from Superman.

A Heroine with Many Faces

Hardly any other DC character has been interpreted as diversely over the years as Supergirl. From the classic heroine of the 1980s to the modern TV version and the dark cinematic interpretations, each portrayal reveals a new facet of the character. It is precisely this versatility that makes Kara Zor-El so compelling to this day. While Superman is often portrayed as the perfect hero, Supergirl is allowed to make mistakes, act on her emotions, and find her own path. With the new DC Universe, her most significant era may even still be ahead of her.

Brad Pitt is reprising his role from Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood." In "The Adventures of Cliff Booth" (the film's unofficial title), he will once again play the titular stuntman. And now the release date has been announced. The film will be shown in IMAX theaters worldwide for two weeks starting November 25, 2026. On December 23, 2026, "The Adventures of Cliff Booth" will then premiere on Netflix, as the streaming service announced.

The "Cliff Booth" film is a sequel to the 2019 Tarantino film "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood." The film was set in Los Angeles in the late 1960s and centered on the struggling actor Rick Dalton, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Brad Pitt appeared in it as his stunt double, Cliff Booth. Quentin Tarantino directed and wrote the screenplay. The film grossed $393 million at the global box office and was celebrated by critics. It also entered the 2020 Academy Awards race with a total of ten nominations and ultimately won two awards: for Best Production Design and for Brad Pitt as Best Supporting Actor.

The Adventures of Cliff Booth is set in 1977

Tarantino is also on board as a writer for the upcoming solo adventure of Cliff Booth. However, David Fincher is directing. There will also be a significant difference in terms of content. The new film is no longer set in the 1960s, but in 1977 – in a Hollywood that has changed dramatically. Alongside lead actor Brad Pitt, the ensemble cast includes Elizabeth Debicki, Scott Caan, Carla Gugino, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Peter Weller, Matt Groove, JB Tadena, Corey Fogelmanis, and Karren Karagulian. Pitt also serves as a producer alongside Ceán Chaffin.

Incidentally, "The Adventures of Cliff Booth" isn't the only spin-off from "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood." In 2021, Tarantino published his debut novel, which essentially retells the story of his film. However, in his book – which also bears the title "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" – he included passages that diverge from the film's plot. As for "The Adventures of Cliff Booth," Tarantino has deliberately chosen not to direct it. He has been planning for some time that his upcoming tenth film will also be his last. With that in mind, he didn't want the presumed final film of his career to be a sequel, as he commented on his decision last year. Additionally, according to his own statements, he's got to be in uncharted territory.

This isn't the first time David Fincher and Brad Pitt have worked together

David Fincher, a filmmaker no less renowned, is taking over the director's chair. After making his film debut with "Alien 3" in 1992, he delivered one thriller highlight after another throughout the 1990s: first "Seven," then "The Game," and finally "Fight Club." For "The Adventures of Cliff Booth," he is once again collaborating with Brad Pitt. Following "Seven" and "Fight Club," he also directed the 2008 fantasy drama "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" with Pitt in the lead role.

As for the Hollywood star, his career continues to be brilliant. After Pitt won an Oscar six years ago for his role in "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," he achieved another personal milestone in 2025 with "F1." The racing drama by director Joseph Kosinski grossed $634 million at the global box office. This made "F1" the biggest box office hit of Pitt's long career. Whether he'll achieve similar success with "The Adventures of Cliff Booth" remains to be seen. Since the film will only be in theaters for a short time and will primarily be available on Netflix, it's hard to gauge just how much financial pressure there is to succeed. In any case, the film's budget is said to be around $200 million – a hefty sum. By comparison, its predecessor, "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," cost just under half that amount.

Matt Damon appears to be lining up his next major film project! The superstar is reportedly teaming up with the creators of the Academy Award winning film "Everything Everywhere All at Once." According to industry magazine Deadline, Damon is currently in talks with Universal Pictures about the project. The first plot details promise an extraordinary concept. Among other things, time travel is said to play a central role!

Originally, Ryan Gosling was slated to play the lead role. According to media reports, those plans fell through due to scheduling conflicts. With Damon, the directing duo Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan (also known as "The Daniels") have now apparently found a suitable replacement. The two reportedly met with Damon and convinced him to join their project.

First plot details

While the title of the project remains unknown, The Hollywood Reporter has already revealed the first plot details. The film is said to revolve around themes such as time travel and global warming, with superheroes potentially playing a role as well. The story unfolds across two timelines – the 80s and the present day. The main characters in the 80s storyline are expected to be teenagers.

The Daniels have reportedly been working on their new film for quite some time, with casting for the teenagers having begun as early as 2024. In recent years, however, the production is said to have encountered several setbacks, including issues related to the budget and screenplay.

Then the film will hit theaters

But things seem to be on the right track now: Filming is set to begin in the summer of 2026. A release date has also already been announced: The film will hit theaters on November 19, 2027.

But first, Matt Damon can be seen in one of the year's biggest blockbusters: In Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey," he takes on the lead role of Odysseus. The film is scheduled for release on July 17, 2026.

The Daniels and Their Films

With Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, Matt Damon will soon be collaborating with two of Hollywood's most exciting filmmakers. In recent years, the directing duo has made a name for themselves primarily through unconventional ideas, genre-blending storytelling, and emotionally charged narratives.

Breakthrough with "Swiss Army Man"

The Daniels celebrated their international breakthrough in 2016 with the quirky adventure film "Swiss Army Man." In this indie hit, a desperate man is stranded on a desert island and befriends a corpse, played by Daniel Radcliffe. Despite (or perhaps because of) the absurd premise, the film was celebrated, among other things, for its dark humor. Paul Dano also received much praise for his leading role.

Academy Awards Triumph With Everything Everywhere All at Once

However, the Daniels achieved their definitive breakthrough with "Everything Everywhere All at Once" in 2022. The science-fiction film blends martial arts action, multiverse chaos, family drama, and comedy into an extraordinary cinematic experience. At its center is a laundromat owner, played by Michelle Yeoh, who suddenly finds herself able to travel between countless parallel universes.

The film unexpectedly became a global hit and won seven Academy Awards – including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress. Ke Huy Quan also made a highly acclaimed comeback with his Oscar-winning supporting role.

Matt Damon and His Long Hollywood Career

Damon has been one of the defining faces of American cinema since the 90s and has appeared in numerous cult films and blockbusters. Damon celebrated his big breakthrough in 1997 with "Good Will Hunting." Together with his close friend Ben Affleck, Damon wrote the screenplay and also played the lead role of the highly gifted math genius Will Hunting. The drama was a huge critical success and earned Damon and Affleck an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Shortly thereafter, Damon established himself as an action star: In "The Bourne Identity" and the subsequent "Bourne" films, he portrayed former CIA agent Jason Bourne. The series is still considered one of the most influential action franchises of the 2000s and made Damon a global superstar. Damon also showcased his talent in the gangster film "The Departed." In Martin Scorsese's thriller, he played an undercover mafia mole within the Boston Police Department – alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Jack Nicholson.

Another major success in Damon's career was "The Martian." In Ridley Scott's science-fiction adventure, Damon plays an astronaut who is left alone on Mars after a mission and fights for survival. In addition, Damon has repeatedly collaborated with some of Hollywood's most renowned directors – such as Christopher Nolan in "Interstellar" and "Oppenheimer." Most recently, he appeared alongside Ben Affleck again in the crime thriller "The Rip." Anticipation is high to see how the actor will fit into the Daniels' creative and often deliberately chaotic cinematic style.

Michael Bay has found his next film project – and he's diving right into a topic that's currently causing quite a stir. As reported by Deadline magazine, the director is working on a film about Donald Trump's war in Iran.

The story centers on the dramatic rescue of two American pilots whose fighter jet was shot down over Iranian territory in April 2026. While both crew members were able to eject in time, a dangerous struggle for survival began afterward. One of the men was quickly located and rescued. The second soldier, however, was left to fend for himself for hours and had to fight his way through Iran's rugged mountainous terrain until a large-scale rescue operation was finally launched. This mission later made headlines under the name "Operation Epic Fury".

In contrast to Bay's big blockbusters like the "Transformers" series, initial reports suggest the film will feature significantly more realistic action scenes. Stylistically, the project could therefore be more akin to productions like "Ambulance" or "13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi".

The film is based on a book by author Mitchell Zuckoff, who also provided the basis for "13 Hours". However, it is still unclear how closely the film adaptation will stick to the actual events. No information on the start of filming or the cast is available yet.

Michael Bay's Most Famous Films: Explosions, Action, and Blockbuster Cinema

Michael Bay has been one of Hollywood's most influential directors for decades. Hardly any other filmmaker is as synonymous with spectacular explosions, fast-paced camera work, and massive blockbusters. His films are loud, fast-paced, and visually overwhelming – which is exactly why millions of viewers worldwide love his work. At the same time, Bay polarizes audiences like few other directors. Critics often accuse him of relying on over-the-top effects and simplistic plots, while fans celebrate precisely this uncompromising action style.

Since the 1990s, Michael Bay has directed numerous successful films that have grossed billions of dollars worldwide. Many of his productions are now considered true classics of modern action cinema.

Bad Boys: The Big Break

Michael Bay celebrated his international breakthrough in 1995 with "Bad Boys". The film tells the story of two Miami detectives who couldn't be more different. While Mike Lowrey, played by Will Smith, comes across as a cool womanizer, Martin Lawrence provides the humorous counterpoint as the chaotic family man Marcus Burnett.

The film won over audiences above all with its explosive action, fast-paced car chases, and lighthearted humor. At the same time, "Bad Boys" cemented Will Smith's status as an international superstar. The success later led to several sequels and laid the foundation for Michael Bay's career as an action specialist.

The Rock: One of the Best Action Movies of the '90s

Just one year later, "The Rock" was released, one of the most popular action films of the 1990s. The film starred Sean Connery, Nicolas Cage, and Ed Harris. The plot revolves around a group of former Marines who occupy the prison island of Alcatraz and threaten to use chemical weapons. To prevent a catastrophe, an FBI chemical weapons expert must infiltrate the island alongside a former prisoner.

To this day, "The Rock" is considered by many fans to be Michael Bay's best film. In particular, the blend of suspense, humor, and uncompromising action made the film a classic of the genre.

Armageddon: The End of the World with Hollywood Pathos

In 1998, Bay scored his next massive box office hit with "Armageddon". The film tells the story of a giant asteroid heading toward Earth. To save humanity, a team of oil drillers is sent into space to blow up the celestial body. The film starred Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, and Liv Tyler.

Although critics criticized the unrealistic plot, "Armageddon" became a global box office hit. The film was made particularly emotional by the famous song "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith, which remains closely associated with the film to this day.

Pearl Harbor: Historical Drama with Spectacular Visuals

With "Pearl Harbor", Michael Bay ventured into the realm of historical war drama for the first time. The film depicts the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II and intertwines historical events with a dramatic love story. The elaborately staged aerial battles and explosions were particularly impressive on the big screen at the time. Even though reviews were mixed, "Pearl Harbor" was a huge financial success and remains one of Bay's best-known productions to this day.

The Transformers Series Transforms Blockbuster Cinema

Michael Bay celebrated the greatest success of his career starting in 2007 with "Transformers". Based on the popular toys and animated series, the film tells the story of the war between the alien robots, the Autobots and the Decepticons. The first installment, starring Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox, revolutionized modern special effects cinema. The spectacular transformations of the robots, in particular, were considered a technical masterpiece at the time.

Several sequels followed, including "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen", "Transformers 3", and "Transformers: Age of Extinction". Despite mixed reviews, the series grossed billions of dollars worldwide and cemented Michael Bay's status as one of Hollywood's most successful directors.

A More Serious Tone with "13 Hours"

In addition to bombastic science fiction films, Michael Bay later proved that he could also handle more serious subject matter. "13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi" in particular was well-received by many viewers. The film is based on the actual events surrounding the attack on a U.S. consulate in Libya in 2012. Unlike many of Bay's earlier films, "13 Hours" relied more heavily on realistic action, intense suspense, and a dark atmosphere. Many critics praised the film as one of the director's most mature works.

Ambulance: Modern High-Speed Action

With "Ambulance", Michael Bay also demonstrated that he can still direct spectacular action films. The thriller starring Jake Gyllenhaal follows two bank robbers who hijack an ambulance after a botched heist. The fast camera movements, intense suspense, and modern direction were particularly praised. Many fans saw "Ambulance" as a return to Bay's stronger action films.

Michael Bay's influence on Hollywood

Michael Bay has shaped modern blockbuster cinema for decades. His films are known for massive explosions, spectacular visuals, and uncompromising entertainment. Even though his works are often the subject of controversy, their influence on the film industry is undeniable. The "Transformers" series, in particular, had a lasting impact on modern special-effects cinema and set new standards for major Hollywood productions. At the same time, Bay proved with films like "The Rock" and "13 Hours" that he is capable of much more than just visual spectacle.

Whether loved or criticized – Michael Bay is undoubtedly one of the most famous and successful action directors of all time. His films have thrilled millions of viewers worldwide for decades and have long secured a permanent place in the history of modern entertainment cinema.

Conan the Barbarian is back! More than four decades after the legendary action hero's first appearance, the highly anticipated sequel, "King Conan", is finally on the horizon. Arnold Schwarzenegger recently provided an update on the status of the sequel to the fan site TheArnoldFans.

According to Schwarzenegger, "King Conan" is expected to go into production in 2027. Earlier this year, The Hollywood Reporter had already reported that Christopher McQuarrie is set to write the screenplay and also direct the film. The filmmaker is best known for his work on the most recent installments of the "Mission: Impossible" series.

The thematic focus of the new film is particularly interesting. Unlike the earlier adventures, "King Conan" is set to depict an older, experienced, and inwardly exhausted ruler. Schwarzenegger explained that the story could only truly work today: Conan has been king for decades now, but his best years are behind him, and he must face new threats. The actor drew comparisons to "Unforgiven", Clint Eastwood's award-winning late-period Western. Similar to that film, "King Conan" is also set to depict an aging hero grappling with his past, power, and mortality – though supplemented by epic fantasy battles and monumental action sequences.

To this day, the role of Conan remains one of the most significant milestones in Schwarzenegger's career. Following the success of the first film, he returned as the barbarian in 1984's "Conan the Destroyer". In the 2011 film "Conan", Jason Momoa took on the lead role. However, the reboot failed to impress either critics or audiences. Unfortunately, there is no release date for "King Conan" yet.

Arnold Schwarzenegger's Most Legendary Roles: From Barbarian King to Action Icon

Hardly any actor has shaped action cinema as much as Arnold Schwarzenegger. The former bodybuilding world champion rose to become one of Hollywood's biggest stars in the 1980s and 1990s. With his distinctive voice, imposing presence, and unmistakable charisma, Schwarzenegger became an icon of modern popcorn cinema. Many of his characters are now considered cult roles that have had a lasting impact on the action genre.

Conan: The Beginning of a Film Legend

Schwarzenegger achieved his international breakthrough in 1982 with "Conan the Barbarian". In the role of the fierce warrior Conan, he impressed audiences above all with his physical presence and his intense portrayal of a taciturn but indomitable hero. The film, based on the stories of Robert E. Howard, quickly became a cult classic of fantasy cinema.

Particularly impressive was how perfectly Schwarzenegger embodied the role. His years-long career as a bodybuilder lent the character an authenticity that hardly any other actor could have delivered. Two years later, he returned in "Conan the Destroyer" and cemented his status as Hollywood's new action star.

The Terminator: The Role of a Lifetime

When people think of Arnold Schwarzenegger, one character immediately comes to mind: the Terminator. With "The Terminator", director James Cameron created one of the most famous science fiction characters of all time. Schwarzenegger played a nearly unstoppable killer robot from the future whose mission was to assassinate Sarah Connor. Although the actor spoke only a few lines in the first film, the line "I'll be back" in particular became world-famous and a hallmark of his career.

The success grew even greater with "Terminator 2: Judgment Day". This time, Schwarzenegger portrayed the Terminator as the protector of young John Connor. The film revolutionized special effects and is still considered one of the best action movies of all time. Here, Schwarzenegger demonstrated not only physical strength but also a surprising amount of emotional sensitivity.

Predator: The Battle Against the Invisible

In 1987, Schwarzenegger took on the lead role in "Predator". In it, he plays Major Dutch Schaefer, the leader of an elite unit that must fight an alien hunter in the jungles of Central America. The film innovatively combined action, horror, and science fiction and quickly became a cult classic. In particular, the duels between Schwarzenegger and the invisible Predator are now among the most iconic scenes in the genre. At the same time, the film demonstrated that Schwarzenegger could play not only muscle-bound heroes but also characters with leadership skills and tactical acumen.

Total Recall: Science Fiction with Depth

With "Total Recall", Schwarzenegger ventured into more sophisticated science fiction entertainment. Directed by Paul Verhoeven, he played Douglas Quaid, a construction worker whose memories had been manipulated. The film combines spectacular action with philosophical questions about reality, identity, and memory. Here, Schwarzenegger proved that he could also portray more complex roles convincingly. "Total Recall" remains one of the most intelligent science fiction blockbusters of the 1990s.

True Lies: Action and Humor

Schwarzenegger played another standout role in 1994's "True Lies". He portrayed secret agent Harry Tasker, who leads a double life and hides from his family that he works for the intelligence agency. The film combined explosive action with humorous scenes and showcased Schwarzenegger's talent for self-deprecating humor. His collaboration with director James Cameron, in particular, proved to be a success once again. "True Lies" became a global box office hit and is still considered one of the best action comedies in film history.

Kindergarten Cop: The Action Hero with a Sense of Humor

Schwarzenegger had already proven his comedic talent in 1990's "Kindergarten Cop". In it, he plays a tough cop who must go undercover in a kindergarten. The mix of action star and overwhelmed kindergarten teacher led to numerous humorous scenes and made the film a crowd favorite. Schwarzenegger showed a likable and human side here that surprised many viewers.

A Distinctive Career

Arnold Schwarzenegger has created numerous unforgettable characters throughout his career. Whether as a barbarian, killer robot, secret agent, or action hero with a sense of humor – his roles have shaped several generations of movie fans. In doing so, he achieved something that few actors ever do: he became a brand in his own right.

Even today, his films enjoy cult status and influence modern action cinema. Schwarzenegger thus remains not only a Hollywood legend but also one of the most famous figures in international film history.

In the action thriller "In the Grey," Henry Cavill, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Eiza González play debt collectors with a twist. To get their hands on the money, they come up with a particularly ingenious plan. Find out how we rate director Guy Ritchie's new film and what other critics are saying in KinoCheck's META film review!

Here's what it's about

Manny Salazar (Carlos Bardem) is a ruthless despot. And he's in debt. Deep in debt. But he has no intention of paying it back. To collect the debt, the shrewd lawyer Rachel Wild (Eiza González) is sent after him. While she corners Salazar with all sorts of legal tricks, her team of loyal elite agents devises a sophisticated plan to be prepared for any eventuality. Because one thing is clear: anyone who puts the squeeze on Salazar must expect a correspondingly violent response. Under the leadership of Sid (Henry Cavill) and Bronco (Jake Gyllenhaal), the men meticulously prepare every step. The plan seems to be working. But they may have underestimated Salazar. A showdown ensues on the despot's heavily guarded private island.

For the cinematic adaptation of this debt collection operation – as action-packed as it is well-thought-out – director and screenwriter Guy Ritchie takes an interesting approach. The planning of the mission isn't merely a prelude to the actual plot – the planning is the plot. At least for much of the film. The crew around Sid and Bronco constantly explains which methods they intend to use to leave nothing to chance and tighten the noose around Salazar – while we simultaneously see the team putting their preparations into action. The problem: At first, this is still engaging, but over time it becomes quite tedious.

Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com sees things a bit differently. Overall, reviews of "In the Grey" are mixed – his review, however, is extremely positive, and he particularly highlights the way information is conveyed in the film:

"There's a continuous flow of information that has to be juxtaposed with the violence, but you're rarely confused. It's all laid out like clothes on a bed."

Not exactly cool

We think: It's more like someone turned on the audio commentary before you've even seen the actual movie. Which, unfortunately, isn't the only weakness of this action thriller. Guy Ritchie goes out of his way to portray his heroes as emphatically cool and quick-witted. Always with a casual quip on their lips, no situation – no matter how dire – seems to rattle them in the slightest. But what's meant to come across as particularly laid-back increasingly feels affected: This applies to the small, mildly funny jabs between Sid and Bronco as well as to the tough one-liners Rachel uses to confront her opponents. Especially since the three stars – Henry Cavill, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Eiza González – remain relatively lackluster in their roles.

William Bibbiani of TheWrap also discusses the lead actors and criticizes the fact that there is nothing to challenge Cavill and Gyllenhaal. Regarding González, he says:

"You can see Eiza González trying, as much as anyone could, to add something to her character, but only when the film gives her a chance, and that's only two or three times and only for a couple seconds."

The heroes barely break a sweat

Especially since the tension suffers from the fact that Rachel's brave band of men hardly ever breaks a sweat. The guys are not only several steps ahead of their opponents, but also several bullets ahead. They effortlessly take out everything and everyone. Clever guys with guns. You don't have to worry about these heroes – but that also means a sense of threat never really sets in.

Frank Scheck of The Hollywood Reporter agrees:

"They're sometimes too efficient, however, with Sid and Bronco and their team executing every maneuver flawlessly, communicating throughout via earpieces that never go on the blink, without any of them suffering so much as a scratch."

The fact that the character development generally leaves something to be desired is also evident in Robert Brian Taylor's critical review on Collider:

"Some extra time could have not only paid off all that planning Sid and Bronco do in more impressive ways, but also given the characters more space to feel like actual characters, as opposed to just standard-issue tough-guy archetypes."

That said, the film is technically quite solid: the timing is spot-on, and the action is straightforward. In directing his thriller, Guy Ritchie proceeds with the same level of expertise as his film heroes do in carrying out their mission. And yet "In the Grey" only really picks up steam toward the end, when suddenly more is at stake than just a pile of cash and the success of a mission. However, the showdown also proves disappointing: the tension fizzles out in the end just as quickly as it built up.

Conclusion: An intriguing premise, but a tedious result: Guy Ritchie's "In the Grey" is, unfortunately, not particularly gripping.

"In the Grey" opened in theaters on May 15, 2026.

The time has come: After five seasons, it's time to say goodbye to "The Boys." One last time, Butcher, Hughie, Starlight, Mother's Milk, Frenchie, and Kimiko head into battle against Homelander. But ending a series is always a delicate matter – and this one is no exception. After all, the final episode, "Blood and Bone," must not only bring the last season to a fitting conclusion, but the entire series as well. And with it, the long journey of the heroes who have grown dear to our hearts over the years. To get straight to the point: The final episode of "The Boys" isn't perfect, but all in all, it's compelling. Which also helps make up for some of the weaknesses of the previous seasons.

"The Boys" wasn't bad in previous years either. However, signs of wear and tear were slowly but surely becoming apparent. Let's look back at the series' premise: Based on the comics by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, showrunner Eric Kripke crafted an incredibly cohesive universe in which superheroes are a completely natural part of everyday life and are marketed as celebrities. It is a cynical world. Instead of fighting for good, many of these superhuman stars abuse their power to assert themselves. Or they use their superpowers for extremely bizarre sexual practices. The fact that the lifestyle of these self-proclaimed superheroes repeatedly spells doom for the occasional ordinary mortal who happens to get in the way is shrugged off as collateral damage.

Homelander becomes a problem

Accordingly, "The Boys" is bloody, brutal, and excessive. While this initially seemed like an inevitable consequence of the premise, the deliberately exaggerated violence and perversions increasingly became an end in themselves. As if one had to include at least one calculated moment of shock per episode to keep viewers hooked.

Another problem that emerged: Homelander. The antagonist, brilliantly played by Antony Starr, is essentially a megalomaniacal, sociopathic version of Superman. Invulnerable, all-powerful, unpredictable. As soon as Homelander appeared, you got the feeling he could crush Butcher and his resistance group at any moment. But he didn't. Even though there were plenty of opportunities. The show's creators kept coming up with new twists to avert the worst. Sure, the show must go on, but by the third season at the latest, this had sapped much of the enormous sense of threat that Homelander exuded at the start of the series.

The advantage of the fifth season: It's the last one – meaning the fight against Homelander no longer has to be unnecessarily dragged out. It's clear from the start: This time, everything is at stake. Life and death, victory or defeat. No "to be continued": No matter how it ends, this time it's final. Consequently, even more is at stake in the final episodes of Season 5 than there already was. Homelander's megalomania is more boundless than ever: the supervillain in superhero's garb now considers himself God. Literally. And as if that weren't bad enough, he may have found a way to become immortal. So Butcher and Co. are doing everything in their power to prevent that.

Blood and Bone: The final episode of The Boys

A quick note up front: There are no spoilers for the end of Season 5 ahead – but if you don't want to spoil anything for yourself through hints or isolated aspects of the story, you should watch the final episode first and then continue reading.

Still here? Good! Because now it's time to appreciate the series' successful conclusion. In "Blood and Bone," not only do the loose ends of Season 5 come together, but also those of the series as a whole – and the anticipated showdown between Butcher's crew and Homelander finally takes place. Of course, we won't reveal how it ends. But this much can be said: nearly everything that had been foreshadowed previously comes together seamlessly in the finale. Which is somewhat satisfying, but not exactly electrifying. For that, the showdown ends up being a bit too predictable.

But then comes the final third: And it packs a punch! Suddenly, the episode becomes quieter, more tragic, sadder. And you realize: The real, more painful showdown hadn't even taken place yet. Suddenly, it's no longer about the question: Will Butcher or Homelander win? But rather about two worldviews that stand in opposition: that of the disillusioned pragmatist Butcher and that of the eternal idealist Hughie. And thus about the question: Do you do what's necessary or what's right?

In this way, the ending reminds us once again of what has always defined "The Boys." The series depicts a cynical world very similar to our own, especially in light of the increasingly radical, right-wing tendencies in U.S. politics, which Kripke and his writers have skewered with ever-greater bluntness. Far from cynical, however, is the series' stance, which at its core has always been about "giving a shit in a world, where nobody gives a shit," as Mother's Milk tells Starlight in one of the final episodes.

A sentiment that comes to the fore even in the very last shot of "The Boys" – and gives the series a well-deserved, dignified conclusion.

"Star Wars" is returning to the big screen! After nearly seven years away from theaters, "The Mandalorian and Grogu" finally takes us back to a galaxy far, far away. But can the beloved heroes from the hit series hold their own in blockbuster format? And can the film revive the struggling "Star Wars" franchise in cinemas?

In our META movie review, you'll find out what to expect from "The Mandalorian and Grogu" – and what we and other critics think of it!

Here's what it's about

At the heart of the film, of course, are the two familiar heroes from the hit Disney+ series "The Mandalorian": the bounty hunter Din Djarin, played by Pedro Pascal, and Grogu, often referred to as "Baby Yoda." The Mandalorian now works for the still-young New Republic. Although the Empire has fallen, numerous Imperial warlords are still scattered across the galaxy. Mando and his apprentice Grogu are tasked with tracking down a dangerous warlord. At the same time, they embark on a rescue mission for Rotta (Jeremy Allen White), the son of Jabba the Hutt.

First things first: prior knowledge isn't really necessary for "The Mandalorian and Grogu." Director Jon Favreau's film is a standalone adventure with very few connections to the tv show. Of course, it's nice if you're familiar with Mando and Grogu. After all, their dynamic is a major highlight for many fans. Still, you can absolutely enjoy the movie without much prior knowledge.

A New Adventure

However, this concept turns out to be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it's positive that "Star Wars" fans without prior knowledge of the series can enjoy the film. On the other hand, the creators miss out on the chance to further develop the story surrounding Mando & Grogu.

What's particularly disappointing is that "The Mandalorian and Grogu" doesn't tell an important chapter in the duo's journey. Instead, it simply feels like another mission. The rather insignificant story lacks emotional highlights and genuine relevance for the main characters. The first two seasons of "The Mandalorian," in particular, had more to offer in this regard. The film's approach has also been criticized by Tom Jorgensen of IGN, among others:

"This is a 'Star Wars' movie missing the thrills, the surprises, the challenges, the addition of really anything of note to the franchise, not to mention a vested interest in seeing its characters grow and change."

A simple side quest?

You also can't help but feel that the plot could just as easily have been told in two episodes of "The Mandalorian." YouTuber Jeremy Jahns is therefore harsh in his assessment of the film:

"Every minute spent with the Hutts in this movie was every minute that felt like a side quest. Only thing is: It's the main quest in here, which makes this whole movie feel like a side quest."

The Hutts do indeed remain rather bland and are neither original nor interesting. Overall, it's puzzling why the filmmakers didn't take the opportunity to tell a more meaningful story in Mando and Grogu's first cinematic adventure. Even as an entry point for new fans, a more compelling narrative would have been the better choice. As it stands, the plot unfortunately doesn't feel appropriate for the cinematic debut of the series' heroes and has barely any noticeable impact on the characters.

The opening is still convincing

One positive aspect worth highlighting is the opening. The film kicks off with a classic "Mandalorian"-style action scene on a snowy planet. Combined with Ludwig Göransson's fantastic score, the thrilling introduction raises expectations. Many critics agree on this – including Jeremy Jahns.

"The first five minutes of the movie [are] the best part of the movie."

What do critics highlight positively?

The opening and Göransson's music are thus highlights of the film. Of course, there are also critics who view other elements positively. Frank Scheck from the industry magazine The Hollywood Reporter, for example, praises the audiovisual experience:

"The scale has certainly been pumped up, with an obviously bigger budget, spectacular action sequences and a significant portion projected in full IMAX-level proportions. It looks, sounds and feels like a 'Star Wars' movie."

The Grogu factor is certainly relevant for many as well. Fans of the small green icon will not be disappointed, with Grogu offering several cute moments along the way. It's also nice to see sci-fi legend Sigourney Weaver as the commander of the New Republic – though her role unfortunately gets very little screen time.

Final Verdict

Overall, "The Mandalorian and Grogu" has received a mixed response from critics. The critic score on Rotten Tomatoes currently stands at around 60%. The aggregated critic scores on Metacritic are even lower, in the 50s – firmly in mediocre territory. Many critics agree on one point in particular: the film feels like another episode of "The Mandalorian." In our opinion, however, it unfortunately doesn't feel like one of the standout episodes.

Our verdict: A weak story without memorable moments – we had hoped for a stronger theatrical debut for Mando and Grogu.

But make up your own mind: "The Mandalorian and Grogu" hits theaters on May 22.