Everyone’s favourite lawyer in pink is back!

Amazon and Reese Witherspoon (Cruel Intentions, Sing) are teaming up to show just how valuable Elle Woods can be with a Legally Blonde TV series. While some fans are hoping that the spin-off will centre around little Bruiser Woods, the plot is still under wraps, with Gossip Girl and The O.C. producers Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage set to pen the TV offshoot.

Though the streaming giant has declined to comment to the media on the show’s progress, there are hopes to turn the Legally Blonde films into a multiple-show franchise with a second potential spin-off already in its early stages.

While it’s yet to be confirmed if Witherspoon will don Elle’s iconic wardrobe once again, the star of Hot Pursuit is set to join the project as a producer. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she expressed her intrigue in delving into Elle’s life in her 40s, hinting at a potential new phase for the beloved character.

“I want to discover what age means to that character,” she said in 2019. “Ageing, contemporary ideas, how things have evolved — or not evolved.”

Fans can only hope that Amazon leaves their favourite characters as they are and remember the wise words of Elle herself.

 “Whoever said orange is the new pink was seriously disturbed.”

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post ‘Legally Blonde’ Spin-Off Series Bending And Snapping Its Way To Amazon Prime Video appeared first on Geek Culture.

Last year proved to be a cinematic feast for movie lovers, with great films like Barbie (agree to disagree, Jo Koy), Oppenheimer, Blue Beetle, and more, bringing back the pre-Covid excitement of rushing to the cinema to catch the film first to avoid spoilers. With 2023 being the year of film abundance, could it leave 2024 as the year of film famine?

Luckily, there is a massive selection of awesome films on the way, with long-awaited sequels like Dune: Part Two, and X-rated comic book offerings like Deadpool 3.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming our way, in order of release date.

1. Badland Hunters (Netflix)

Release Date: 26 January 2024

Netflix’s upcoming film, Badland Hunter, unites South Korea’s top-notch action ensemble, including Korean action master Ma Dong-seok (Train to Busan, The Roundup).

Badland Hunters follows the tales of individuals struggling to survive in a post-apocalyptic scenario triggered by a major earthquake. When a teenage girl, portrayed by Roh Jeong-ui (18 Again, Kill It), is abducted by the deranged doctor Yang Gi-su (Lee Hee-joon, Mouse, Mad Rush), Nam San (Don) embarks on a daring mission to rescue her.

2. Argylle (Universal Pictures)

Release Date: 1 February 2024

Many authors hope to see their works come to life, but for Elly Conway (Bryce Dallas Howard, Jurassic World, The Help) that dream takes a much more deadly turn. In her latest book, featuring the formidable superspy Agent Argylle (Henry Cavill, The Tudors, Enola Holmes) who outshines even James Bond, the line between fiction and reality blurs as the storyline closely mirrors an actual espionage scenario. This draws the attention of various intelligence agencies, putting the novelist in a precarious position.

Directed by Matthew Vaughn (X-Men: First Class, Stardust) of the Kingsman series, this action comedy boasts an A-list cast, including Dua Lipa (Barbie, No Time to Die), Samuel L. Jackson (Pulp Fiction, Secret Invasion), Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad, Kung Fu Panda 3), Sam Rockwell (Jojo Rabbit, Iron Man 2), Catherine O’Hara (Elemental, Schitt’s Creek), John Cena (The Suicide Squad, Fast X), and Ariana DeBose (Wish, West Side Story). 

3. Madame Web (Sony Pictures)

Release Date: 14 February 2024

Fans have already been buzzing with theories at Sony’s latest addition to its Sony Pictures Universe of Marvel Characters… luckily, it’s been renamed the Sony’s Spider-Man Universe or SSU.

Dakota Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey, Persuasion) takes on the lead role as Cassandra “Cassie” Webb, a paramedic who discovers she has clairvoyant powers. Forced to confront revelations about her past, and must protect three young women linked to her through a web of fate – Julia Cornwall aka Spider-Woman  (Sydney Sweeney, Euphoria, Anyone but You), Mattie Franklin also aka Spider-Woman (Celeste O’Connor A Good Person, Freaky) but another one, and Anya Corazon aka Araña and technically also Spider-Woman (Isabela Merced, Instant Family, Transformers: The Last Knight), from a mysterious adversary Ezekiel Sims (Tahar Rahim, Napoleon) who bears a stark resemblance to beloved webslinger and wants them dead.

4. Dune: Part Two (Warner Discovery)

Release Date: 29 February 2024

The long-awaited sequel to 2021’s Dune is finally here! Denis Villeneuve’s (Blade Runner 2049, Arrival) second instalment of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi epic follows Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) on a quest for vengeance against those responsible for his family’s downfall, all while striving to avert a catastrophic future. 

Alongside Chalamet (Wonka, Little Women), the returning cast features Zendaya (Spider-Man: No Way Home, The Greatest Showman), Josh Brolin (Deadpool 2, Men in Black 3), Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, My Spy), and more. Fresh faces such as Austin Butler (Elvis, The Carrie Diaries), and Florence Pugh (Black Widow, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish) will also be joining the cast.

5. Kung Fu Panda 4 (Universal Pictures)

Release Date: 7 March 2024

The fourth instalment of the popular DreamWorks series, Kung Fu Panda 4, takes a surprising twist from the get-go as Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) informs Po (Jack Black) that he will no longer be the Dragon Warrior, transitioning instead to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. 

However, this newfound role is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of a new adversary, The Chameleon (Viola Davis), a shape-shifting sorceress with the ability to absorb the kung fu skills of every villain Po has ever faced, who is bent on doing what they couldn’t — eliminating him.

6. Damsel (Netflix)

Release Date: 8 March 2024

Princess Elodie (Millie Bobby Brown, Stranger Things, Enola Holmes) seems to be walking the fairytale path many girls dream of after marrying the handsome prince (Nick Robinson, Jurassic World, The 5th Wave), it’s almost a no-brainer that the next step is living happily ever after.

Unfortunately for her Highness, instead of a future of sweet royal marital bliss, she is left in a cave with a fire-breathing dragon — a sacrificial offering to pay an ancient debt. Elodie will only have her wits to rely on if she wishes to make it out alive. 

Brown and Robinson will be joined by co-stars Angela Bassett (Black Panther, American Horror Story), Robin Wright (House of Cards, The Princess Bride), and Ray Winstone (Noah, King of Thieves).

87. Road House (Prime Video)

Release Date: 21 March 2024

Road House is a remake of the 1989 action film of the same name, now with Jake Gyllenhaal (Nightcrawler, Spider-Man: Far From Home) looking especially ripped in the protagonist’s role as a former UFC athlete who ends up working at a rowdy bar in the Florida Keys where things are not as they seem.

The supporting cast comprises the likes of real-life MMA champion Conor McGregor, Billy Magnussen (Game Night, Aladdin), Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad, Fast X), and Lukas Gage (You, The White Lotus).

8. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Sony Pictures)

Release Date: 22 March 2024

When mysterious supernatural forces unleash a phenomenon called the “Death Chill,” inducing terror and threatening to plunge New York City into the next ice age, there’s only one question to ask: who are you going to call? 

The sequel to 2021’s reboot/continuation, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, reunites the film’s next-generation paranormal investigators (Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace) alongside the  iconic original characters from the franchise (Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson, Annie Potts) for another thrilling ghost-busting adventure. 

9. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (Warner Discovery)

Release Date: 28 March 2024

It looks like Kong isn’t the only large ape on Skull Island.

The latest Monsterverse instalment sees the mighty Kong and the King of the Monsters joining in an alliance against a colossal deadly threat hidden deep within our world that threatens the existence of their species and humankind. For lovers of world-building, you are in luck as the film will delve into the mysteries of Skull Island and the origins of Hollow Earth.  

Besides the obvious monster casting, the likes of Dan Stevens (Beauty and the Beast, Legion), Rebecca Hall (The Night House, Iron Man 3), Brian Tyree Henry (Bullet Train, Eternals), and Kaylee Hottle (Magnum P.I, Godzilla vs. Kong) will be joining as the token human characters. 

10. The Fall Guy (Universal Pictures)

Release Date: 3 May 2024

David Leitch (John Wick, Atomic Blonde) brings the action comedy to the big screen with Ryan Gosling stepping into the shoes of Colt Seavers, the “fall guy” stuntman,  who is on a mission to uncover the disappearance of movie star Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The plot thickens as it turns out that Ryder had connections with some rather unsavoury characters, leading to car chases, shootouts, and bar fights in the ex-stuntman’s future. 

11. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (20th Century Studios)

Release Date: 9 May 2024

The latest instalment in the Planet of the Apes series, following the events of 2017’s War for the Planet of the Apes, appears determined to surpass the achievements of the original franchise. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes marks the fourth entry in the rebooted series, bringing them just two films away from surpassing the five-movie legacy that began in 1968. 

Set centuries after the era of Caesar (Andy Serkis) – with humans reduced to a feral-like existence and some ape groups never hearing of the alpha simian- the narrative introduces a new ape leader (Kevin Durand) who seeks weapons and technology to establish dominance over the clans. The challenge falls on the shoulders of Noa (Owen Teague), a chimp, and Mae (Freya Allen), a human, to prevent him from evolving into a tyrannical ape ruler. 

12. IF (Paramount Pictures)

Release Date: 16 May 2024 

What if your imaginary friend was not so imaginary? In John Krasinski’s (A Quiet Place, Monsters University) whimsical family-friendly film, the concept of imaginary friends lingering beyond their creators’ childhood takes centre stage. 

The plot takes a fascinating turn when both an adult (Ryan Reynolds) and a young girl (Cailey Fleming) possess the ability to see these once-invisible companions, resulting in a series of challenges for the unlikely pair. Krasinski has assembled an impressive cast of voice actors for these unseen friends, including his former Office co-star Steve Carell (Despicable Me, Evan Almighty), alongside Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve), Maya Rudolph (Bridesmaids, Big Mouth), Sam Rockwell (The Green Mile, Iron Man 2), Christopher Meloni (Law & Order, Man of Steel), and Awkwafina (Crazy Rich Asians, The Farewell). Notably, Matt Damon (The Martian, Jason Bourne) and Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Prada, Oppenheimer) also lend their talents to enrich this enchanting journey.

13. The Garfield Movie (Sony Pictures)

Release Date: 23 May 2024

Anyone hungry for lasagna?

Garfield (Chris Pratt), the beloved, Monday-hating, lasagna-loving indoor cat, is about to embark on something he hates– a wild outdoor adventure. After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father – scruffy street cat Vic (Samuel L. Jackson) – Garfield and his canine frenemy Odie are forced from their perfectly pampered life into joining Vic on a hilarious, high-stakes heist.

14. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (Warner Discovery)

Release Date: 23 May 2024

Furiosa (Charlize Theron) stole the show in 2015’s Mad Max: Fury Road, the Imperator single-handedly (literally) aided Max’s (Tom Hardy) survival on Fury Road. Now, fans will finally have their questions about her past answered with the newest instalment of George Miller’s (Happy Feet, Mad Max) post-apocalyptic franchise.

Anya Taylor-Joy (The Menu, The New Mutants) steps into the large boots left by Theron to portray the younger Furiosa, with Chris Hemsworth (Thor: Ragnarok, Extraction) and Tom Burke (Strike, The Lazarus Project) as co-stars. 

15. Ballerina (Lionsgate Films)

Release Date: 6 June 2024

In the upcoming John Wick spin-off, Ana de Armas (Blonde, Knock Knock) takes the lead as Rooney, a dancer-assassin out for revenge following the murder of her family. 

Positioned between the third and fourth John Wick movies, this storyline guarantees the return of Keanu Reeves (The Matrix, Constantine) as our beloved fugitive killer. Joining him are familiar faces Ian McShane (American Gods, Hellboy), Anjelica Huston (The Addams Family, The Witches), and the late Lance Reddick (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Resident Evil). 

16. Bad Boys IV (Sony Pictures)

Release Date: 13 June 2024

Get ready for more action as Will Smith (Men In Black, Aladdin) and Martin Lawrence (Big Momma’s House, National Security) team up again in the fourth Bad Boys instalment, following the smashing hit that was Bad Boys for Life. 

Directors Adil El Arbi (Rebel, Gangsta) and Bilall Fallah (Rebel, Gangsta) return, alongside Chris Bremner (The Man from Toronto, Bad Boys for Life)  on script duty. While the plot is under wraps, anticipate the usual Bad Boys ingredients: humour, shoot-outs, car chases, encounters with villains, higher-up frustrations, iconic poses, a Miami montage with a flamingo, and a memorable Inner Circle song drop. 

17. Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)

Release Date: 13 June 2024

Gather your emotions in this much-anticipated sequel, as Anxiety (​​Maya Hawke) joins the emotional roster of Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Fear (Tony Hale), and Disgust (Liza Lapira), with teenage Riley grappling with a new set of complex feelings as she transitions to young adulthood. Allegedly, following a dispute over pay, Mindy Kaling (The Office, Ocean’s 8) and Bill Hader (THe BFG, Sausage Party) declined to reprise their respective roles as Disgust and Fear.

Impressively though, the film has already achieved the milestone of becoming Disney’s most significant animated trailer launch.

18. A Quiet Place: Day One (Paramount Pictures)

Release Date: 27 June 2024

Set as a prequel to the 2018 post-apocalyptic thriller, this upcoming film explores the origins of the world where the Abbott family grappled with the need for silence to evade creatures hunting by sound. Lupita Nyong’o (Black Panther, Us) takes centre stage as the protagonist, navigating the initial moments of the alien invasion in New York City. 

Going back to the roots of the alien invasion, this prequel, directed by Michael Sarnoski (Pig, The Testimony), promises to unveil the immediate aftermath of the space bugs taking over the planet. While details are scarce, we can expect confusion, panic, and a considerable amount of chaos. 

19. Despicable Me 4 (Universal Pictures)

Release Date: 4 July 2024

While the specific storyline remains under wraps, Despicable Me 4 will feature the return of familiar faces, including Steve Carell (The Office, Evan Almighty), Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids, Wonder Woman 1984), Pierre Coffin (Minions, Despicable Me), Miranda Cosgrove (iCarly, School of Rock), and Steve Coogan (Night at the Museum, The Trip). Chris Renaud (The Secret Life of Pets, Minions), who directed the first two Despicable Me movies, is set to helm the fourth film.

20. Deadpool 3 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)

Release Date: 25 July 2024

The Merc with a Mouth (Ryan Reynolds) is back, and  dragging Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) out of retirement! Jennifer Garner (Yes Day, Peppermint) is also set to reprise her role as Elektra, a character she previously portrayed in the Daredevil franchise years ago, along with a bunch of rumoured cameos throughout the long-running X-Men movie franchise. 

This third instalment marks the first Deadpool project to be produced by Walt Disney Studios after its acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019.

21. Borderlands (Lionsgate Films)

Release Date: 8 August 2024

In this film adaptation of popular video game Borderlands, director Eli Roth (Hostel, Knock Knock) leads a stellar cast, including Cate Blanchett (Ocean’s 8, Thor: Ragnarok), Kevin Hart (Jumanji: The Next Level, Central Intelligence), Jack Black (Kung Fu Panda, The Super Mario Bros. Movie), Jamie Lee Curtis (Halloween, Everything Everywhere All at Once), and Édgar Ramírez (Point Break, Jungle Cruise) as they venture into familiar territory of hit games turned into movies 

This sci-fi action comedy follows Lilith (Blanchett), a mysterious outlaw returning to her home planet of Pandora. To save the daughter of the powerful Atlas (Ramírez), Lilith forms an unlikely alliance.

There have been rumours that the film has had some behind the scenes issues, so only time will tell if fans will get the Dragon Ball Evolution or the Last of Us treatment.

22. Pushpa 2: The Rule (Mythri Movie Makers)

Release Date: 15 August 2024

The much-anticipated sequel to Pushpa: The Rise, a film that dominated the box office and won two National Awards, is here.

Pushpa 2: The Rule follows the life of Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun Vedam, Sakra), who works as a labourer in the illegal trade of red sandalwood in the forests of Tirupati. The film explores Pushpa’s journey as he aspires to rise above his humble beginnings and make a name for himself. It delves into his conflicts with characters like Mangalam Srinu (Sunil) and Dakshayini (Anasuya Bharadwaj). Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played by Fahadh Faasil (Vikram, Malik), adds another layer of complexity to the plot as he conspires to prevent Pushpa’s marriage to Srivalli.

Pushpa 2: The Rule is expected to provide closure to Pushpa’s life and offer an engaging storyline that will captivate audiences. 

23. Singham Again (Reliance Entertainment)

Release Date: 15 August 2024

Scheduled for release on Indian Independence Day, Singham Again marks the third instalment of Bollywood’s beloved cop franchise. Despite sharing its release date with Pushpa 2: The Rise, this sequel is poised to be one of the most anticipated titles of 2024. Riding on the commercial triumphs of its predecessors in 2011 and 2014, the film faces high expectations for its upcoming chapter. 

Ajay Devgn (RRR, Bholaa) reprises his role as the principled titular officer, leading a cast in another riveting clash against the forces of corruption. He is joined by Deepika Padukone (Pathaan, Fighter) who will be playing a brutal, and menacing cop along the lines of a Lady Singham.

24. Alien: Romulus (20th Century Studios)

Release Date: 15 August 2024

Details about Fede Alvarez’s latest addition to the Alien franchise are scarce, but thanks to cast member Cailee Spaeny (Priscilla, Pacific Rim Uprising), we now know that the new film is situated between the events of the first Alien film and James Cameron’s (Titanic, Avatar: The Way of Water) action-packed 1986 sequel, Aliens. 

Notably, the creature design team from the latter film will play a crucial role in shaping the appearance and atmosphere of the Xenomorphs in this movie.

25. Kraven the Hunter (Sony Pictures)

Release Date: 29 August 2024

Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Godzilla, Bullet Train) dons the distinctive animal-print outfit as he steps into the iconic role of Kraven, a fan-favorite archvillain in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe. 

In this solo film directed by J.C. Chandor (Margin Call, All Is Lost), fans will get a chance to explore Kraven’s quest to establish himself as the world’s greatest hunter, building anticipation for the hunter’s hopeful clash with Spider-Man in future films.

The likes of Ariana DeBose (Wish, West Side Story), Russell Crowe (Gladiator, The Pope’s Exorcist), Alessandro Nivola (Jurassic Park III, Disobedience), and Christopher Abbott (It Comes at Night, Black Bear) will be hunting alongside (or running from) Taylor-Johnson’s Kraven.

26. Beetlejuice 2 (Warner Discovery)

Release Date: 5 September 2024

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice…Burton!

Michael Keaton (Batman, The Flash) and director Tim Burton (Corpse Bride, Frankenweenie) join forces once again for the long-awaited sequel to their 1988 classic. 

In this continuation, the mischievous ghost Beetlejuice (Keaton) reemerges to haunt the Deetzs, featuring the new generation of Burton’s cinematic world represented by Jenna Ortega (Wednesday, Scream), who faces the chaos caused by the iconic ghost. Winona Ryder (Black Swan, Heathers) and Catherine O’Hara (Home Alone, Elemental) will also be returning to this beloved spooky tale.

27. Transformers One (Paramount Pictures)

Release Date: 12 September 2024

We’re not sure if this is what the Autobots meant when they said, Til All Are well… One. Starring Chris Hemsworth (Men in Black: International, Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Lucy, Sing), Keegan-Michael Key (Wonka, Migration), Jon Hamm (Mad Men, Good Omens), Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix, Hoodlum), and Brian Tyree Henry (Eternals, Child’s Play), the newest instalment in the Transformers universe, directed by Josh Cooley (Inside Out, Up), is set on Cybertron, exploring the relationship between Optimus Prime (Hemsworth) and Megatron (Henry). 

Without Peter Cullen returning as Prime, let’s see how fans responds once this rolls out.

28. Saw XI (Lionsgate Films)

Release Date: 26 September 2024

After Saw X left fans rather unsatisfied with its ending, the cult-favourite franchise is back with an eleventh instalment.

While the plot is still under wraps, fans can expect the usual mix of blood, gore, and intricate traps, with hopefully satisfying kills (not murder, because Jigsaw doesn’t commit such acts).

29. Joker: Folie à Deux (Warner Discovery)

Release Date: 3 October 2024

In the sequel to Todd Phillips’ (The Hangover, War Dogs) Joker,  Lady Gaga (A Star is Born, House of Gucci) teams up with Joaquin Phoenix (Napoleon, Her) for a musical thriller as the Crown Prince and Cupid of Crime terrorise Gotham City. 

Gaga takes on the role of Harley Quinn, the sociopathic partner-in-crime and girlfriend of Phoenix’s Arthur Fleck, the failed comedian-turned-criminal. Alongside Phoenix and Gaga, the cast includes Zazie Beetz (Deadpool 2, Full Circle), Brendan Gleeson (Braveheart, 28 Days Later), Catherine Keener (Incredibles 2, The Croods), Jacob Lofland (Mud, Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials), and Harry Lawtey (Industry, Benediction). 

30. Venom 3 (Sony Pictures)

Release Date: 8 November 2024

After having its release date pushed back, the third instalment of the Venom franchise is finally set to grace the big screen. Tom Hardy (Legend, The Dark Knight Rises) reprises his role as the Spidey antihero with fans hoping for more of the frenemy banter between Eddie Brock and his chocolate-loving symbiote. Joining the cast are Juno Temple (Ted Lasso, Maleficent) and Chiwetel Ejiofor (2012, Doctor Strange) in unspecified roles, adding an intriguing layer to the storyline.

31. Red One (Warner Bros. Pictures / Amazon Prime Video)

Release Date: 14 November 2024

A Christmas action-comedy film which has the formula of “Miracle on 34th Street meets Hobbs & Shaw with a little bit of It’s A Wonderful Life sprinkled on top” (Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s, Jumanji: The Next Level, Jungle Cruise, words) teeters the fine line between being a holiday epic or an original take that puts a damper on the season.

Details about the film’s storyline is still unknown, but fans of Chris Evans (Pain Hustlers, Knives Out) can be excited to see the Avengers star standing alongside Johnson and a rockstar version of Santa Claus portrayed by J.K. Simmons (Juno, La La Land). 

32. Gladiator II (Universal Pictures)

Release Date: 21 November 2024

In the long-awaited sequel by director Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner), Paul Mescal (Aftersun, Normal People) takes on the role of the now-adult Lucius Verus, the nephew of Commodus from the original 2000 Oscar-winning Gladiator. He’s the one saved by Russell Crowe’s (Noah, Robin Hood) warrior Maximus and Gladiator II will explore his journey in the aftermath of Maximus’ demise.

Joining the cast are seasoned actors Denzel Washington (American Gangster, The Equalizer) and Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us, Game of Thrones), who bring their sword-swinging prowess to the sequel, alongside Connie Nielsen (Wonder Woman, The Devil’s Advocate) as Lucilla, Lucius’ mother. 

33. Wicked Part 1 (Universal Pictures)

Release Date: 28 November 2024

The highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, Wicked is set to enchant audiences with Part 1 this year, followed by  Part 2 in 2025. If you’re not familiar with the show, it’s a musical prequel to the literary classic, The Wizard of Oz, and ditches Kansas with a  fresh perspective on Oz’s classic tale, exploring themes of love, friendship, and trust. 

Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Chaos Walking) takes on the role of Elphaba, the destined Wicked Witch of the West, while Ariana Grande (Zoolander 2, Scream Queens) stars as the future Glinda the Good. Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, Now You See Me 2), the cast also features Jeff Goldblum (Jurassic Park, The Fly) as the man behind the curtain, along with Bowen Yang (The Garfield Movie, Bros), Michelle Yeoh (Crazy Rich Asians, Tomorrow Never Dies), Jonathan Bailey (Fellow Travelers, Bridgerton), Ethan Slater (​​The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The SpongeBob Musical: Live on Stage!) (if you know, you know) and others. 

34. The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (Warner Discovery)

Release Date: 12 December 2024

Set 183 years prior to the events chronicled in the initial trilogy of films, and directed by 

Kenji Kamiyama (Eden of the East, Akira), this animated story unfolds with a surprise assault by Wulf (Luke Pasqualino), a cunning and relentless Dunlending lord. Motivated by a quest for revenge for his father’s death, Wulf compels Helm (Brian Cox) and his community to execute a bold final defence within the ancient stronghold known as the Hornburg – a formidable fortress that will later earn the name Helm’s Deep. 

Amidst a growingly dire scenario, Hera (Gaia Wise), Helm’s daughter, finds herself thrust into a leadership role, tasked with rallying the resistance against a lethal adversary hell-bent on annihilating them entirely.

35. Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)

Release Date: 19 December 2024

Under the direction of Barry Jenkins, this prequel to the 2019 remake of the animated The Lion King shifts the narrative focus to Simba’s father, and his journey to becoming the true king of Pride Rock. 

Drawing parallels to Hamlet, the acclaimed Moonlight filmmaker has promised a blend of laughter, tears, and enchanting musical numbers in this exploration of Mufasa’s origin story. Additionally, the film delves into the early relationship between Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) and his brother Scar (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), who evolves into the primary antagonist in The Lion King. 

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post 35 Most Anticipated Movies Of 2024 appeared first on Geek Culture.

This review is based on the first three episodes of Percy Jackson and The Olympians.

The battle between fans of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians book series and Hollywood has finally ended, as Disney+ and series author Rick Riordan have finally come together for a sophomore attempt at a live-action adaptation of the beloved book series. But instead of another feature-length attempt, the powers that be have finally opted for a more measured approach and the result is now worthy of its novel counterparts, – at least for the first book in the series, The Lightning Thief, which is what the 8-episode first season is based on.

What helps with an extended episodic series, much like the many chapters in a book, is the ability to lean in more to the series lore, and be less focused on the action needed to fit within a film, which was what led to the lacklustre reception of Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief  (2010) and Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters (2013), and a lack of a third outing. 

The first book follows young demigod, Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell, The Adam Project, Secret Headquarters), son of Poseidon and a human mother, and his quest-mates Annabeth (Leah Jeffries, Beast, Something from Tiffany’s), daughter of Athena and a human father, and Grover (Aryan Simhadri, Spin, Cheaper by the Dozen), a Satyr, as they race across America, facing mythical adversaries, to return Zeus’ (Lance Reddick, John Wick, Resident Evil ) stolen bolt and prevent an impending war, all while grappling with Jackson’s new-found identity and lineage.

Alas, while Reddick is part of the series, he passed away earlier this year and has yet to appear in the first three episodes. Though there is no doubt with his charisma that many have already seen on-screen through his past films, there is no one better to don the intimidating role of the King of Olympus. The series is already building up to his appearance by the way other characters speak of him, and the weather reflecting his current displeasure with both his brother, Poseidon (Toby Stephen, 13 Hours, The Machine) , and nephew, Jackson. 

The most significant change from the films to the TV series is the significantly younger cast when it comes to the demigods, a much welcome change as they act like the preteens they are supposed to be in the books. It does wonders from the series right from the get-go in Episode 1, I Accidentally Vaporize My Pre-Algebra Teacher, where we get a glimpse of how differently Percy sees the world and how alone he feels, the visualisation of how young he is to be feeling this way tugging at the heartstrings of viewers. This is supported by Scobell’s  phenomenal portrayal of Percy, his sass, and loyalty bringing the character right off the pages. 

While Episode 1 does introduce us to various mythological beings, such as a Fury, an Automaton, and later a Minotaur, they take a backseat to the relationship between Sally Jackson (Virginia Kull) and Percy. Kull’s Sally Jackson takes on a much more assertive and protective role than her film counterpart when it comes to Percy, as seen in her interactions with Grover and Gabe Ugliano (Timm Sharp), her husband. Coupled with her deep understanding of Greek Mythology, it becomes clear why the Greek God of the Sea would break a major pact for her. The fantastic chemistry between Kull (The Big Bend, Gracepoint) and Scobell draws viewers into the dynamic of the mother-son duo, creating attachments that make the end of the episode all the more heartbreaking. 

The consequences of trying to fit an entire book into eight episodes soon start to show in Episode 2, I Become Supreme Lord of the Bathroom, as it tries to fit Percy’s struggles in adapting to Camp Half-Blood, a meaty training sequence, the introduction of multiple new characters, and the backstory of why Percy is being chased by monsters into one episode. This leaves characters such as Chiron (Glynn Turman) and Dionysus (Mr. D) (Jason Mantzoukas) on the sidelines, diminishing the role they had (mostly Chiron) in mentoring Percy during his early days at Camp Half-Blood.

Something else that might throw fans a bit off is Percy’s ability in sword fighting, as he seems much more clumsy in his fight sequences than in the books, where he is known to have a natural talent for sword fighting. This could be intentional to emphasise how jarring this change in his life, of knowing he is a demigod, is and how it is taking him longer to adapt.

What can be applauded is the clever use of CGI in this episode, often in far away shots or under the cover of darkness, so that it blends better with the background and gives a tone of realism that viewers can feel as though these magical items and mythological creatures could easily exist in our world. Episode 1 did have such shots, but the few closer ones left a hope that the series would continue to improve over time.

The end of Episode 2 introduces viewers to a theme that carries over to Episode 3, We Visit the Garden Gnome Emporium, and likely the rest of the series – the sins of the parent fall on the child. 

Viewers are introduced to the unlikely trio of Percy, Annabeth, and Grover, with the first two immediately displaying their parentage by bickering from the start (for context, Athena and Poseidon are known to be rivals of each other), with Annabeth trying to lead them with strategize plan (as a daughter of Athena would) and Percy restless with having to follow a set plan (as a son of Poseidon would). Meanwhile, Grover tries to be a good middleman to balance the two, though he doesn’t always succeed.

With lore steeped in Greek mythology, several famous characters make an appearance, even if myth depicts them as being dead, and some reflected in a new light against what ancient stories show. The much-maligned Medusa is one, as the ancient Gorgon known to turn men to stone with one gaze, is given a more modern update and her characterisation here is much different from the books, with her portrayal in the series one that viewers can even sympathise with. This falls in line with how her tale has been put up for debate in recent years, especially on social media, and it fits in well with the series such that it does not feel out of place, even to those who have read the books. Jessica Parker Kennedy (Black Sails, The Flash) chosen tone of voice for the Gorgon, soft yet eerie, almost compels viewers to feel sorry for her, but yet can’t seem to get rid of the feeling that something is just not right.

The theme that the sins of the parent fall on the child is pushed to the surface during her speech to the trio, telling Annabeth and Percy that they have the choice to not be like their parents, but will have to suffer the consequence of being born the children of the Greek Gods should they not renounce their loyalties to their godly parent. It is something that hits a nerve with Percy especially, leading him to do something that could have disastrous consequences in the near future.

Overall, the first three episodes of Disney+’s Percy Jackson and The Olympians show a very promising start for the series, making it clear that the only way to produce a great book to live-action adaptation is to ensure the writers themselves are heavily involved in the project. Riordan co-wrote the pilot of this series, and serves as the show’s executive producer, which was something he never did for the films, which explains the deviation from the source materia therel, and why fans weren’t fans of it. The casting choices are near immaculate, with the exception of one Greek God who appears at the end of Episode 3 and breaks the fantastical immersion of this hidden world, and will have readers of the books falling in love with their beloved characters again. However, like with all fantasy book to live-action adaptations, there will be some pacing and CGI issues that fans can only hope will taper down as the series progresses.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians streams on Disney+ from December 20 with a two-episode premiere.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Geek Review: Percy Jackson and The Olympians (Disney+) appeared first on Geek Culture.

Fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender were overjoyed when it was announced that original animated show creators Bryan Konietzko (The Legend of Korra, The Last Airbender) and Michael Dante DiMartino (The Legend of Korra, The Last Airbender) would be involved in Netflix’s live-action adaptation. Everything changed, however, in 2020, when they decided to leave the project– something that showrunner Albert Kim (Nikita, Sleepy Hollow) has finally decided to address. 

Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Kim understands the colossal responsibility he is undertaking, especially considering that the Avatar: The Last Airbender animated series is considered to be one of the best TV shows of all time with a fanbase to match. 

“You’d have to be an idiot not to be intimidated a little bit,” Kim says. “My first reaction after ‘Hell yeah!’ was ‘Holy s—! Do I really want to do this? Is there a way to improve upon the original?’ Whenever you tackle something that’s already beloved by millions of fans, you have to ask yourself those questions.”

Fans might also be asking themselves, “Do I really want to do this?”, when it comes to watching the series, the happily oppressed memory of The Last Airbender (2010)— where DiMartino and Konietzko were also pushed out of the movie’s production– starting to surface. Kim’s answer to the series’s current direction does little to assuage their worries.

“We don’t start the show the way the animated series starts. That was a conscious decision to show people this is not the animated series,” Kim said. “We had to sometimes unravel storylines and remix them in a new way to make sense for a serialised drama. So I’m very curious to see what’ll happen in terms of reaction to that.”

Netflix has had their go at multiple live-action adaptations of beloved franchises such as One Piece and The Witcher— the clear difference in their reception by fans parallel to the involvement of the original creators with Eiichiro Oda (the creator of One Piece) acting as almost a guard dog against Netflix when it came to the direction of the show which resulted in many fans applauding the adaptation. 

On the other hand, The Witcher franchise author Andrzej Sapkowski spoke about how Netflix ignored his feedback, the result clearly showing how fans have criticised the series. DiMartino echoed his sentiment towards the streaming giant in his open letter to fans regarding his departure for the live-action adaptation. 

“In a joint announcement for the series, Netflix said that it was committed to honouring our vision for this retelling and to supporting us on creating the series. And we expressed how excited we were for the opportunity to be at the helm. Unfortunately, things did not go as we had hoped.”

DiMartino conveys later in his letter that he sees the potential for the current live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender to be good, but it just would not be how he envisioned it. 

With Netflix’s track record, could Avatar: The Last Airbender be the series to succeed despite the departure of its original creators following the high of One Piece?

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Netflix’s ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ Live Action Showrunner Addresses Departure Of Original Creators appeared first on Geek Culture.

Following the release of the Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire trailer, highlighting the upcoming team-up between the two iconic Titans, the King of the Monsters has more than one reason to bask in glory as Godzilla Minus One smashes the global box office.

After its premiere in Japan last month, Godzilla Minus One, Toho’s highly anticipated kaiju film, made its North American debut this weekend. The film surpassed predictions, raking in US$11 million during its initial three days, almost breaking records for foreign-language films. This comes in addition to the US$23 million Godzilla Minus One had amassed in Japan during its original debut, bringing its global earnings to approximately US$35 million, a remarkable feat considering its reported budget of just US$15 million.

This places Godzilla Minus One in third on the domestic box office chart, falling just behind Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, and surpassing animated titles, Trolls Band Together and Wish. The film has also earned the title for the second-largest opening for a live-action foreign-language movie, trailing only behind Jet Li’s 2002 wuxia hit, Hero, which reached US$18 million in its initial weekend and concluded its domestic screening with a total surpassing US$50 million.

Grossing over five times what 2016’s Shin Godzilla did in its entire domestic run, Godzilla Minus One dominates as the biggest-ever domestic debut for a Japanese live-action film. 

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post ‘Godzilla Minus One’ Dominates With Largest Japanese Live-Action Opening In U.S. appeared first on Geek Culture.

Scheduled for an April 2024 theatrical release, Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire joins the MonsterVerse series as its latest instalment, succeeding 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong. Adam Wingard (You’re Next, Blair Witch), the director behind the preceding movie, has once again taken the helm for The New Empire— becoming the sole filmmaker to direct more than one project within the Godzilla franchise. 

The title reveal teaser for The New Empire, released in April, gave fans the first look at a menacing primate-looking figure on a throne overlooking the skulls of what seemed to be both Godzilla and Kong. Well, Wingard goes deeper into who this “devilish, Kong-type character” is and more about The New Empire in an interview with IGN.

“We wanted to come up with an antagonist that would both be a match for Kong and Godzilla, and that’s really hard to do,” he said. “There’s a lot more to this character and how he’s a threat, and that’s going to be something that’s going to be fun to kind of dole out.”

While fans ponder about the origins of this new villain, Wingard happily reveals that a fan-favourite creature, Titanus Doug, will be getting the screen time he deserves in The New Empire after his one shot in Godzilla vs. Kong went viral. The director also seems to have a soft spot for the creature, affectionately calling him “a little bulldog sort of”.

The New Empire will see the comeback of Rebecca Hall (Iron Man 3, The Night House) as Dr. Ilene Andrews, Brian Tyree Henry (Eternals, Child’s Play) as Bernie Hayes, and Kaylee Hottle (Godzilla vs Kong, Magnum P.I) as Jia in the franchise. However, the return of Alexander Skarsgård (True Blood, Battleship), Millie Bobby Brown (Stranger Things, Enola Holmes), Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2, The Christmas Chronicles 2), or Kyle Chandler (The Wolf of Wall Street, Bloodline) from Godzilla vs. Kong remains unconfirmed.

With a set release date of 12 April 2024, there is no shortage of Godzilla content to tide fans over. In the past year, the MonsterVerse introduced two fresh series: Skull Island on Netflix and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters on Apple TV+. Additionally, Godzilla Minus One was released with resounding success, and a prequel comic titled Godzilla x Kong: The Hunted is slated for release in February, preceding the upcoming movie.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post ‘Godzilla x Kong: The Empire’ Reveals Massive ‘Kong-Like’ Villain And More appeared first on Geek Culture.

LG Electronics has introduced its latest lineup of SMART Monitors, the 32SR50F and 27SR50F, aiming to transform how users work and relax at home. These monitors, available in 31.5- and 27-inch sizes, respectively, ditch the need for direct PC connections, making them ideal for remote work and entertainment. 

The SMART Monitors blend work and entertainment seamlessly, featuring advanced IPS displays that deliver impeccable colour accuracy, enhanced contrast, and HDR 10 support, creating an immersive viewing experience (from video calls to document work) that brings content to life. The 27-inch model also looks sleek with its 3-sided, virtually borderless design, adding a touch of modern design to any home office. 

Embedded with LG’s webOS 23 platform, these monitors are designed for unmatched convenience. Users can seamlessly access streaming apps and receive tailored recommendations for movies, series, and music directly from the Home Board screen.

Catering to the needs of remote workers, the monitors come equipped with built-in LG Home Office software that supports various productivity programs, including Microsoft 365 and Google Calendar. Moreover, they eliminate the need for direct PC connections by enabling easy sharing of content from smart devices via AirPlay 2 and Miracast.

But these monitors are more than just displays; they serve as smart home hubs. With ThinQTM Home Hub support, users can effortlessly monitor and manage compatible home appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, through the ThinQTM app.

Each user will have their own preferences for how they make use of their SMART Monitors, and Mr. Lee Chang-Ha, Product Director of LG Electronics (Singapore) Home Entertainment, emphasised LG’s focus on catering to their diverse needs.

“The LG SMART Monitor series is designed to cater to the personal preferences and unique demands of various users. In the future, LG aims to introduce SMART Monitors that cater to an even wider range of lifestyle needs.”

Available at LG’s Online Brand Store, Amazon, Shopee, Lazada, KrisShop, and select authorised retailers, priced at S$499 and S$429 for the 32SR50F and 27SR50F respectively, these monitors offer a glimpse into a future where workstations seamlessly merge with entertainment hubs. 

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post LG’s WebOS Smart Monitors Work Without A Connected PC appeared first on Geek Culture.

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Willem Dafoe (The Lighthouse, Inside). The Spider-Man actor has revealed the ghostly part he will be playing in the much-anticipated sequel to Tim Burton’s (Corpse Bride, Batman) Beetlejuice. He joins a star-studded cast alongside the likes of Michael Keaton (The Flash, Beetlejuice), Winona Ryder (Haunted Mansion, Heathers), and Jenna Ortega (Wednesday, Scream). 

Dafoe confirmed his role in the sequel to Variety, a supernatural officer of the law who was once an action movie star – now able to put his skills to good use in patrolling the afterlife.

“I haven’t seen any footage yet, but it was fun to do. I play a police officer in the afterlife, so I’m a dead person. And in life I was a B-movie action star, but I had an accident and that’s what sent me to the other side. But because of my skills, I became a detective character in the afterlife. So that’s my job. But it’s coloured by the fact of who I was [when I was alive]: a B movie action star.”

Beetlejuice 2, which was delayed by the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, also sees newcomers Monica Bellucci (Memory, Tears of the Sun) and Justin Theroux (American Psycho, Megamind) joining the cast. 

The details of the sequel are not set in stone, but it is confirmed to be a direct sequel to the original film, a ghostly comedy where the afterlife gets a mischievous twist when a deceased couple hires an eccentric “bio-exorcist” to haunt their former home’s new inhabitants.

Beetlejuice 2 is set to hit theatres on 6 September 2024.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Willem Dafoe Takes On Ghostly Role In ‘Beetlejuice 2’ appeared first on Geek Culture.

Taika Waititi (Thor: Love and Thunder, Free Guy) has embarked on a mission of galactic proportions with the Jojo Rabbit director looking to capture the joy of the original trilogy in his upcoming Star Wars film. 

Fans of the Star Wars franchise would tell anyone that this is a tall order, but the director seemed pretty confident when discussing the project on The Kelly Clarkson Show.

“I’ve been developing [the Star Wars film] for a few years, but I think with any film, but that one in particular, it’s something I’d really like to get right so I don’t want to rush it,” Waititi said. “It’s going to bubble along on the side.

“I wanna capture that joy and entertainment of those early ones like The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi and all those ones, so I’m trying to figure that out. It’ll happen.”

The film will happen, but not anytime soon, with Waititi mentioning to Entertainment Tonight that his new Star Wars entry is unlikely to hit theatres before he finishes his four ongoing projects, which demand six or seven years.

“I’ve got about four other scripts that I’m trying to finish. My thing is I want to take my time with that and get it right. I don’t want to rush this movie.”

Though this puts the film on a timeline of debuting around 2030, it slightly eases the concern of fans who have been worried if Waititi’s addition to the Star Wars franchise would even happen as years have passed since the project was announced in May 2020, without Lucasfilm showing much progression. 

Fans had been left grasping at whatever information Waititi or Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy divulged, and even then, it was not the most assuring.

Kennedy told Variety in April 2023 that Waititi was still “working away” on the film, with the director himself telling The Hollywood Reporter that the story was still missing a middle. This had fans slightly confused as Waititi had told Wired in Aug 2021 that he’s “got a story” locked down. Many wondered if the project would end up on the chopping block like Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige’s (The Marvels, Iron Man) own Star Wars entry which was cancelled after years of receiving similarly few updates.

The top three upcoming films that look to have the most potential in making it out to viewers were unveiled at Star Wars Celebration 2023, though without confirmed titles or release dates. 

The first, helmed by Dave Filoni (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Book of Boba Fett) of The Mandalorian and Ahsoka fame, aims to conclude storylines from the respective TV series. The second, directed by James Mangold (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Logan), looks to delve into the origins of The Force.

Lastly, directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Saving Face, Armed With Faith), Daisy Ridley (Ophelia, Peter Rabbit) is slated to reprise her role as Rey Skywalker in a film set 15 years post-Star Wars: Episode 9 – The Rise of Skywalker.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Taika Waititi Wants His Star Wars Movie To Capture Joy Of Original Trilogy appeared first on Geek Culture.

Netflix’s The Witcher has not had the greatest relationship with its fanbase these past couple of years, and it might sour even further with what franchise author Andrzej Sapkowski had to say at Vienna Comic-Con.

Many have criticised the streamer for its numerous deviations from Sapkowski’s source material, with the author himself quite annoyed at how Netflix had received his feedback.

“Maybe, I gave them some ideas, but they never listened to me. But it’s normal.” He told The Hollywood Reporter before breaking into an impression of a Netflix executive and saying dismissively, “Who’s this? It’s a writer, it’s nobody.”

Sapkowski’s statement reminded fans of The Witcher’s upcoming fourth season, where Henry Cavill (Mission: Impossible – Fallout, Man of Steel) will no longer be playing the White Wolf, the mantle falling to Liam Hemsworth (The Hunger Games, The Dressmaker). The reason behind his departure is still in limbo, with many speculating that the writers played a heavy hand in it as it seemed off that Cavill, who was committed to playing Geralt for seven seasons “as long as we can keep telling great stories which honour [author Andrzej] Sapkowski’s work”, would leave on his own. 

Beau DeMayo (Moon Knight, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds), a former producer and writer on The Witcher, further fueled the flames with his answer (during a Q&A on his Instagram stories) to how he assembled the production team for the upcoming X-Men ’97 Disney+ series.

“I’ve been on a show – namely Witcher – where some of the writers were not or actively disliked the books and games (even actively mocking the source material),” DeMayo explained. “It’s a recipe for disaster and bad morale. Fandom as a litmus test checks egos, and makes all the long nights worth it. You have to respect the work before you’re allowed to add to its legacy.”

Heads turned quickly to showrunner Lauren Hissrich (Daredevil, The West Wing), who defended herself on Instagram.

“I’ve never mocked the books,” Hissrich wrote. “The books are my entire livelihood. I have a great relationship with Mr. Sapkowski and writer’s rooms are sacred and safe and – more than anything – supportive spaces. Don’t believe everything you read.”

With The Witcher season 3 down 36 percent in viewers from season two, it looks like the fans might not be on her side.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post ‘The Witcher’ Author Says Netflix “Never Listened” To Him appeared first on Geek Culture.

Love her or hate her, the Force is strong in this one.

Fans of the Star Wars Sequel Trilogy received a pleasant surprise in April when it was announced that Daisy Ridley (Murder on the Orient Express, Peter Rabbit) is set to return to a galaxy far, far away as Rey Palpatine Skywalker in a new film that takes place after Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

Since then, there has been little news as to what the movie will cover, although there are rumours and expectations that it will chart her journey in rebuilding the Jedi Academy and more. Recently. the Chaos Walking actress gushed to Collider‘s Steve Weintraub about excited she was to surprise fans at the Star Wars Celebration, and is extremely thrilled with the plot of her new film, despite it not being what she expected.

“I will tell you, Steve, when I saw you in Park City, I had not been approached. I was asked some, not by you, but I was asked something when I was there, and strangely, people were asking me stuff, and I was like, “No, I’m not doing another one,” recalled the actress.

“Then it all happened after I came back. It was such a nice reception. I was shitting myself before I went on stage, because no one knew I was going to that. No one knew I was going to Celebration, bar like Kathy [Kennedy] and there were a couple of people. I was so nervous. Oh my God. It was such a wonderful reception. I’m very excited. The story is really cool. I’m waiting to read a script because, obviously, I don’t have any other updates. It’s not what I expected, but I’m very excited.”

There has been speculation whether Ridley’s reprisal of the scavenger-turned-Jedi will be a standalone or the spark that would ignite a new Star Wars trilogy. The Ophelia star was rather coy with her response when asked if she knew what the future held for her character.

“I know the storyline for one film. That’s not to say that that’s all it is, but that’s what I was told about. And I imagine it will be the next film, I think. I mean, again, I don’t know, post strikes and everything, how quickly everything will start up again. But yes, so far, I know the story of one film and I think people will be very excited.”

Well, one thing is for sure: she cannot wait for fans of the Star Wars franchise to catch a glimpse of the upcoming film. 

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Daisy Ridley Says Star Wars Return Is “Not What I Expected” appeared first on Geek Culture.

A recent Monolith Productions job listing has fans speculating whether its upcoming Wonder Woman game will contain live service elements, especially since the lead software engineer of gameplay position values a candidate with experience in “helping maintain a live software product or game”.

For context, live service elements in games aim to engage players long-term, enticing them to spend on in-game items like outfits, weapons, and bonuses. However, many players often have a love-hate relationship with the service, feeling that live service elements are more for parting them from their real-world cash than enhancing the gameplay experience. 

While coming to the conclusion that the Wonder Woman game will definitely include live service elements purely from a job listing is a stretch, Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav’s comment during an 8 November earnings call makes it harder to see this as purely a coincidence.

“Our focus is on transforming our biggest franchises from largely console and PC based with three-four year release schedules to include more always on gameplay through live services, multiplatform and free-to-play extensions with the goal to have more players spending more time on more platforms,” he said. “Ultimately we want to drive engagement and monetization of longer cycles and at higher levels.”

Fellow DC title Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League is fronting this approach, though it gained less than savoury reactions from fans after it was revealed that the game, initially perceived as a narrative-focused (allowing up to four-player co-op), turned out to be a live-service title that mandates a continuous online connection. 

While Wonder Woman is teased to be a single-player adventure set in an expansive world, with an original storyline where players take on the role of Wonder Woman as she strives to unite her Amazon kin and the humans from the modern world, nothing is set in stone till the fat lady sings.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Wonder Woman Game Job Listing Sparks Buzz Of Live Service Elements appeared first on Geek Culture.

In the wake of Godzilla Minus One obliterating box-office records with the biggest IMAX opening ever in Japan, at an impressive US$1.2 million across 49 IMAX screens throughout the country, there’s no denying that the Japanese loves their kaijus, especially when the creatures are stomping through pop culture like the King of Monsters on a city-wide bender. 

This cinematic extravaganza has everyone buzzing about Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, the latest streaming series that’s supposed to be more thrilling than a kaiju-sized roller coaster. Available on Apple TV+, the series is set in Warner Discovery’s MonsterVerse movie franchise, and takes place after the clash between Godzilla and the Titans. The series addresses the reality of monsters and follows one family’s quest to unearth hidden secrets, revealing a legacy intricately tied to the franchise’s Monarch organisation.

But for those not yet fluent in kaiju-speak, here is a short crash course.

“Kaiju” is a term that transforms ordinary creatures into city-stomping, skyscraper-crushing behemoths in the world of Japanese cinema. Picture this: massive monsters, from the iconic Godzilla, to the more obscure yet equally colossal counterparts, going toe-to-toe in epic battles while levelling entire cityscapes. It’s not just about jaw-dropping special effects and mind-blowing CGI (although, let’s be real, that’s a big part of it); it’s a cinematic poem to the collective fascination with the monstrous and the fantastical. 

The genre has long since crossed borders (some say across the Pacific Rim), captivating a global audience with its celebration of larger-than-life creatures, metaphorical storytelling, and the unbridled joy of watching things go kaboom on an epic scale.

So, to all those who love a good dose of monster chaos, here is a list of the top 10 kaiju movies that would have you cheering for more destruction.

1. Godzilla (1954)

Regarded as the pioneer of kaiju films, the original Godzilla directed by Ishirō Honda (Mothra, Rodan) is hailed as the quintessential kaiju movie. This iconic film not only introduced the world to the concept of a giant radioactive monster wreaking havoc on Tokyo, but also served as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of nuclear weapons. 

The film’s dark and sombre tone, coupled with Akira Ifukube’s haunting score, creates a sense of dread that has resonated for decades. Godzilla’s emergence from the ocean and his destructive path through the city remain cinematic landmarks, making this film a timeless classic in the kaiju genre.

2. Cloverfield (2008)

Cloverfield takes a unique approach to the kaiju genre by presenting the monster’s rampage through the lens of a found footage-style narrative, the first of its kind. Directed by Matt Reeves (The Batman, Let Me In) and produced by J.J. Abrams (Star Trek, Star Wars: The Last Jedi), this film adds a fresh perspective to the genre, immersing the audience in the chaos and fear experienced by the characters on the ground as if they were right there with them.  

The mystery surrounding the creature’s origin and the unconventional storytelling make Cloverfield a standout kaiju movie. Its realistic portrayal of the human response to a colossal threat and the use of handheld cameras to capture the action contribute to its status as a groundbreaking and suspenseful entry in the kaiju genre.

3. Kong: Skull Island (2017)

The second film in the MonsterVerse universe, after 2014’s Godzilla, Kong: Skull Island reinvigorates the kaiju genre by placing the iconic giant ape, King Kong, in a visually stunning and action-packed setting. Directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts (Cocked, The Kings of Summer), the film is a perfect meld of creature design, world-building, and epic battles.

The film’s commitment to exploring the mysterious Skull Island and its diverse ecosystem, coupled with Kong’s heroic portrayal as the protector of the island, adds depth to the narrative, cementing the film as more than just a monster going on a mindless rampage. An animated spin-off, Skull Island, is even available on Netflix for fans who want to unravel all the secrets of Kong’s home.

With a talented ensemble cast, with the likes of Tom Hiddleston (Loki, Thor: Ragnarok) and Brie Larson (The Marvels, Room), and state-of-the-art special effects, Kong: Skull Island successfully modernises the Kong mythos, solidifying its place as one of the best kaiju movies.

4. Godzilla (2014)

The king that started the genre, in a Western reboot that birthed the MonsterVerse, Gareth Edwards’ (The Creator, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) Godzilla brings the iconic monster back to its roots while incorporating cutting-edge special effects. This film strikes a balance between human drama, with an impressive performance by Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick-Ass, Avengers: Age of Ultron) and Elizabeth Olsen (WandaVision, Avengers: Endgame), and kaiju action, offering a gripping narrative and awe-inspiring monster battles. 

Godzilla’s design pays homage to the original while introducing a more realistic and imposing creature. Edwards, in an interview with ShockTillYouDrop, emphasised that he wanted Godzilla to be more than just a monster.

“He’s not like King Kong where there’s a personality. Godzilla is definitely a representation of the wrath of nature.”

The slow reveal of Godzilla and the strategic use of his appearances build anticipation and showcase the grandeur of the kaiju. With its meticulous pacing and a sense of scale that truly captures the magnitude of Godzilla, this film stands out as a remarkable entry in the kaiju genre.

5. Pacific Rim (2013)

Huge robots clashing with even bigger monsters have always been a fan-favourite. Directed by Guillermo del Toro (Hell Boy, Crimson Peak), Pacific Rim takes the kaiju genre to new heights by introducing gigantic human-piloted robots, known as Jaegers, in a desperate battle against colossal sea monsters aptly named, ‘Kaijus’. The film’s imaginative world-building, intricate Jaeger and kaiju designs, and expertly choreographed action sequences, of both the Jaegers and the humans piloting them, make it a captivating watch in the genre. 

Del Toro’s unique visual style and commitment to creating a rich mythology around the kaiju and Jaegers contribute to the film’s epic scale and emotional resonance, with Idris Elba’s (The Suicide Squad, Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw) performance at the end bringing many to tears. Pacific Rim is a love letter to classic mecha and kaiju stories, combining nostalgia with groundbreaking visuals to deliver an exhilarating cinematic experience.

Our advice is to watch this, and skip the terrible sequel.

6. The Host (2006)

Inspired in part by a 2000 incident, Bong Joon-ho‘s (Parasite, Snowpiercer) The Host draws from a report by a Korean mortician in Seoul working for the U.S. military, who claimed he was instructed to dispose of a significant quantity of formaldehyde down the drain. 

Introducing a mutated monster, spawned from toxic waste in the Han River, terrorising Seoul, the film defies traditional kaiju conventions by blending genres, seamlessly incorporating elements of family drama, dark comedy, and political commentary. 

The Host stands out for its well-developed characters, sharp social commentary, and the emotional depth brought to the kaiju narrative. Bong’s masterful direction, coupled with groundbreaking CGI (for its time at least), elevates the film beyond a mere creature feature, making it a thought-provoking and genre-defying entry in the kaiju canon.

7. Shin Godzilla (2016)

Directed by Hideaki Anno (Shin Karmen Rider, Shin Ultraman) and Shinji Higuchi (Attack on Titan, The Floating Castle), Shin Godzilla provides a unique and contemporary take on the iconic monster while still reminding the audience of the King of Monsters’ roots as a metaphor for nuclear destruction. 

One of the things Anno and Higuichi changed to highlight that fact was Godzilla’s atomic breath, making it utterly destructive and chaotic instead of the controlled stream that previous films had depicted. 

The meticulous and terrifying evolution of Godzilla, coupled with the film’s social and political commentary, distinguishes Shin Godzilla as a standout entry. The use of practical effects and innovative storytelling techniques contributes to the film’s impact, solidifying its status as a modern classic in the kaiju genre.

8. Destroy All Monsters (1968)

As a part of Toho’s Godzilla franchise, Destroy All Monsters is a monumental kaiju crossover directed by Ishirō Honda. Bringing together various iconic monsters, including Godzilla, Mothra, and Rodan, the film is a fan’s dream with its epic monster battles. 

The magnitude of the monster chaos can be attributed to Honda, who in his final interview with Cult Movies magazine, decided it would be much better, pacing-wise, for all the monsters to appear together at the same time rather than be individually introduced. 

“Mr. Kimura and I were confined to write Destroy All Monsters together, and we agreed how nonsensical it’d be to have each monster appear one after the other. So we came up with the marine ranch scenario—which scientifically would now be called aquaculture—and asked what’d happen if that got developed on a super scale? We decided to put all of the monsters in one place, where they are scientifically “raised.” 

The global scale of the kaiju mayhem and the collaborative effort required to defeat a common threat sets Destroy All Monsters apart. With its extensive roster of monsters, such as Godzilla and Manda, and groundbreaking special effects (for the 1960s), this film remains a beloved classic among kaiju enthusiasts.

9. The War of the Gargantuans (1966)

Directed once again by Ishirō Honda, The War of the Gargantuans presents a unique twist on the kaiju formula by introducing humanoid monsters with distinct personalities. The film explores the relationship between two Gargantuans, Sanda and Gaira, one who is gentle, and one who would rather stomp on humans, and their impact on human civilization. 

Honda’s directorial finesse elevates the narrative, infusing each monster encounter with a sense of gravitas and emotional depth rarely seen in traditional kaiju films. The nuanced portrayal of Sanda and Gaira adds layers to their characters, making them more than mere destructive forces. From the intricate design of the Gargantuans to the awe-inspiring action sequences, every frame is a testament to the film’s commitment to delivering a captivating cinematic experience.

10. Gamera Heisei Trilogy (1995 – 1999)

The Gamera Heisei Trilogy, consisting of Gamera: Guardian of the Universe (1995), Gamera 2: Attack of Legion (1996), and Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris (1999), revitalises the Gamera franchise with a darker and more mature tone. Directed by Shusuke Kaneko (Death Note, Danger Dolls), the trilogy introduces a redesigned Gamera as a guardian of Earth facing formidable kaiju threats.

The films are praised for their engaging characters, intricate plotlines, and impressive special effects. Kaneko’s direction and the trilogy’s commitment to character development set a new standard for kaiju films, making Gamera a respected and complex figure in the genre.

Bonus: The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms (1953)

American sci-fi monster film The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms holds a special place in the history of kaiju cinema as a direct influence on the creation of Godzilla. Directed by Eugène Lourié (Gorgo, The Giant Behemoth), this film features a prehistoric monster awakened by nuclear testing, setting the stage for the emergence of giant creatures as metaphors for nuclear fears. Ray Harryhausen’s (Clash of The Titans, The 7th Voyage of Sinbad) groundbreaking stop-motion effects in bringing the titular creature to life left an indelible mark on the genre. 

The success of The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms paved the way for Godzilla (1954), directed by Ishirō Honda, which drew inspiration from the themes of nuclear devastation and the awe-inspiring spectacle of a giant monster.

In a domino effect, Godzilla, in turn, became a cultural phenomenon, influencing countless kaiju movies across various mediums and cultures. The success and enduring legacy of The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms played a crucial role in establishing the kaiju genre, transcending borders and mediums. Whether in Japanese, Western, or Korean cinema, and whether through animated or live-action formats, the impact of The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms on the kaiju genre remains undeniable, making it a pioneering work that laid the foundation for the diverse and expansive world of giant monster films.

Whether you’re delving into the roots of kaiju with The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms or embracing the contemporary twists of Pacific Rim, these films provide a kaleidoscope of imagination, inviting all to witness the epic battles and larger-than-life narratives that define the kaiju cinematic universe. 

So, grab your popcorn, and dive into the world of colossal creatures—an adventure that promises unbridled excitement and a geeky celebration of the monstrous and fantastical.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Top 10 Kaiju Movies To Catch For Maximum Monster Chaos appeared first on Geek Culture.

Singapore Wizarding World fans will soon get to experience the Dark Forest firsthand as Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience makes its Asia-Pacific debut in Sentosa on 3 February 2024. This follows the outdoor experience’s massively successful run in the US and UK.

Modelled after the iconic Forbidden Forest and featuring creatures from both the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series, enthralling lights will transform Sentosa Island’s Coastal Trail into a magical outdoor trail. Visitors will get to experience fan-favourite moments from Forbidden Forest, encounter mystical creatures such as Hippogriffs, Unicorns, and Nifflers, sip on Butterbeer, and even try their hand at spell-casting. Exclusive film merchandise will also be available at the gift shop for fans to bring home a souvenir after an unforgettable evening.

Created by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment in partnership with leading entertainment discovery platform Fever and award-winning theatrical designers Thinkwell and Unify, the breathtaking light trail of Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience will leave families and fans of all ages wonderstruck.

Tickets will be available from 16 November, starting at S$51 for adults and S$39 for children. However, fans who sign up for the waitlist today will unlock exclusive early access to secure admission to a magical night. Check out Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience’s website for more information.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post ‘Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience’ Makes Its Magical Asia Debut In Singapore appeared first on Geek Culture.

How To Train Your Dragon is the latest film to have its theatrical release date pushed back as the result of SAG-AFTRA strikes, which is clocking 113 days. These strikes involve members of the actors’ union protesting for better working conditions and fair compensation in the entertainment industry.

The good news is that the live-action remake of Cressida Cowell’s book series of the same name will only be delayed by about three months– from March 14, 2025, to June 13, 2025. The bad news is that How To Train Your Dragon’s new release date will see it competing against an untitled Pixar movie.

Though, if the live-action performs anything like its animated counterpart, it will have little to worry about. 

Following the story of a young Viking named Hiccup who befriends and trains dragons, challenging his village’s dragon-hunting tradition, the trilogy of animated How To Train Your Dragon movies has amassed a global box office revenue exceeding $1.6 billion, received four Academy Award nominations, and secured a Golden Globe victory for How to Train Your Dragon 2.

Universal and Dreamworks Animations are leaving nothing to chance with an award-studded team leading the project. Three-time Oscar nominee Dean DeBlois (Lilo & Stitch, How To Train Your Dragon) returns to helm the project along with three-time Oscar nominee Marc Platt (La La Land, Bridge of Spies), and Emmy winner Adam Siegel (2 Guns, Drive) who will be producing the film.

Sasha Nair

Sasha has been a lover of all things geek since before she could read, having driven her mother up the wall in providing geek material as fast as her daughter could get through them. While Fantasy has been her greatest love, Sasha won’t say no to anything Horror, Action-Packed, or Sci-Fi!

The post Actor’s Strike Delays ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ Live-Action Remake appeared first on Geek Culture.