Table of ContentsTable of ContentsWhen is Record Store Day?Whats available on RSD?How do I get the most out of RSD?Cover your basesRSD aftermath and hopeFor many collectors of those spinning plastic discs of joy known as vinyl records, Record Store Day is better than Christmas. Every April (and Black Friday), music lovers emerge from their winter hibernation to line up at record stores around the world in hopes of getting their hands on exclusive and limited-release records pressed especially for the big day. Its also a day to get out and bump elbows at the record bins with like-minded vinyl nerds and support independent, local brick-and mortar-stores. It can be a blast and it can be a bust, but its a vinyl community event that must be experienced.But what is RSD, as its colloquially know, whered it come from, when is it, and what can you expect from it? Im gonna break it down for you.Recommended VideosThe very first RSD took place on Saturday, April 19, 2008. Amid the uprising of digital music and streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music no one other than serious vinyl collectors was thinking about records, and the format was on life support. The 1,400 indie record stores in the U.S. were dying and needed a little love, so they banded together and Record Store Day was born.Now, twice a year, music lovers and vinyl collectors get a day just for them. With the spring weather, the flagship RSD event happens every April, with the 2025 edition coming on Saturday, April 12. Record Store Day brings exclusive, limited-edition vinyl releases to indie record shops in more than 14 countries around the world, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the U.K.In 2010, the first RSD Black Friday event happened because who says only big-box stores get to have all the fun? Instead of battling crowds for budget TVs, why not score a rare record or two instead? The list of releases might be smaller than Aprils RSD, but the thrill and comraderie is the same.Derek Malcolm / Digital TrendsA month or two before every Record Store Day event, a list of up to several hundreds of release titles is distributed through the official Record Store Day websites of each country. When the lists are released, theyre not hard to find theyre shared all over social media and youll often find them posted to the websites of your local record stores as well.The U.S. RSD list includes all the titles that will be distributed to American record stores. Titles include everything from rare releases and exclusives, colored pressings, and box sets to 7-inch singles, live concerts, various artist complications, soundtracks, and even CDs (gasp!).Its a great opportunity to add something unique to your record collection, and as someone whos stood in the rain in line for hours to get my hands on many cool pressings, when youre successful, its like winning the lottery.Once the RSD list goes out, theres some work to be done to help ensure you find and secure the records youre looking for. The list can be big, so take some time and go through it, jotting down the records you want. Make note of the quantity of copies pressed limited run pressings can number in the low hundreds to several thousands. This will help you gauge the likelihood of you getting a copy, but it goes without saying that so will the artist and title youre not going to be the only one standing in line for Taylor Swifts 7-inch white vinyl Fortnite remixthats on this years list.Once you have your want list, as the weeks leading up to RSD approach, your local record stores will likely start reaching out on social media asking their customers to let them know what RSD records they want them to order. Dont be shy, let them know, either through their socials (if theyre friendly like that, and most of them are), drop by in person or give them a call. If youre not sure what record stores near you are participating, each RSD website for your country will have a handy locator or list of stores.While you cannot pre-order RSD records, your local stores will try their best to get in the ones their customers want. But there are no guarantees: its been my experience that the stores get what they get.Derek Malcolm / Digital TrendsAs the day approaches, many record stores will post the RSD titles and quantities theyve gotten in on their socials or on their websites, and many will do this up to the day itself. Armed with this info, you can now decide what store or stores will give you the best chance of securing that Limited Run Top Secret! soundtrack featuring Val Kilmer (rest in peace). Now all you have to do is get up bright and early and get in line before everyone else and hope it doesnt rain.Lastly, and this might be hard to hear: after all that prep, theres still a good chance you might not even get the record you want.So, heres what you do. Have the phone numbers of the other potential record stores handy in a note on your phone, piece of paper or something, and call them to see if they have the records youre looking for. Some will post live stock on their sites or socials, but thats such a moving target its best to just call. They may or may not hold it for you once the rush dies down, but at lest youll know where to go next.Another good idea is to divide and conquer. You surely have other vinyl enthusiast friends, so work together, spread out to the other stores if you can to get the titles you each want.Ill leave you with a ray of hope. When Record Store Day is over and done, record stores will likely allocate all their leftover titles to a RSD bin or crate in the store. Ive gotten lucky several times in the weeks and even months after the day and stumbled upon records I missed out on in, for example, a Sunrise Records in a shopping mall or something keep your eyes peeled!All this is to say that all is not lost, even if you dont get the record you wanted you got a pretty great shared community experience out of the day, regardless. And while you wait six months for the next RSD, keep your crate fingers sharp and you never know what youll find.Happy Record Store Day hunting!Editors RecommendationsPro-Jects record flattener looks like a waffle iron, will rehab warped vinyl

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsMicrosoft 365 in my everydayAI as an external toolCopilot+ potential in unexpected placesIf you have a regular subscription, youre likely well-versed in the dance of paying for something and wondering if its worth the value. For many people, that might be a streaming service that hasnt been used in six or more months or a membership for a gym that hasnt been visited since before that last holiday. For me, I grapple with what to do with my Microsoft 365 subscription, specifically after the recent price hike due to the addition of Copilot+ features.Microsoft 365 is one of those interesting computer suites that you dont realize that you need until you need it. Its likely why Ive allowed Microsoft to snatch money from my bank account for several years, when I only use one or two programs and one or two features.MicrosoftThe primary way that I use Microsoft 365 is via the Read Aloud function in Word when editing my articles before publishing. I find it highly beneficial for catching errors that might be missed in a standard read-through. Without AI, I think many can agree that the tools of Microsoft 365 are extremely powerful applications. Im certain many Gen X and Millennials would say, back in our day, Clippy was the only AI we needed.Recommended VideosWhen appropriately orchestrated, many a Microsoft 365 functionality works like magic. The other day, I fashioned a signature into a Word document using a photograph of my handwriting. I edited it with the wrap text and transparency functions (I didnt even know that was a thing). But theres a reason why proficiency in the Microsoft suite is an actual skill and not just something you put on your resume. Not that its something Ive personally mastered, but it is a notable skill that doesnt necessarily go away with the introduction of AI.MicrosoftNevertheless, Copilot+ is here to stay, and Microsoft is marketing its productivity suite and its hardware partnerships around the AI functionality. Its unavoidable, as reports of how Microsoft continues to develop its technology surface daily. However, in my day-to-day life, it has become very easy to compartmentalize many AI features, most of which entail some form of rewriting or paraphrasing. As a journalist, my bread and butter depend on my ability to write things from scratch. I initially subscribed to Microsoft 365 not for my own needs but to assist a family member who was preparing to navigate college. We were anticipating them needing to connect with me when asking for help with schoolwork, so we opted for a family plan. When their college plans fell through, I kept the subscription for myself for my work. This was ahead of the industry-wide AI boom; however, having the subscription benefited me in testing various features in real time as they dropped. I tinkered with various Teams functions, Microsoft Designer features, and early iterations of Copilot. Amid this, I fell into my general Read Aloud routine using Microsoft Word, primarily for editing purposes.Being a technology reporter, I believe I turn to some places to be my refuge away from all of the burgeoning AI features. I have become so accustomed to going to the outside apps and web-based interfaces to access AI features that I dont require them to be integrated into my productivity atmosphere. I use the web-based version of Microsoft Copilot, especially to get access to its Think Deeper function, which is powered by the reasoning models typically accessed only in OpenAIs ChatGPT Pro. However, I dont pay for a $200 ChatGPT subscription. I occasionally reference back to Microsoft Designer, though these features dont require a 365 subscription.When Im in my word processor, I just focus on my work and worry about the AI afterwards. It wasnt until contemplating this piece that I realized I dont notice the Copilot+ button in the Microsoft Word interface to think of using the AI functions. This is likely because I spend most of my time in the Review section of Word, where Read Aloud is, and not in the Home section of Word, where the Copilot button is, so the AI functionality is simply not a part of my world.Even when using Google Workspace, where the Gemini icon appears more prominent to me, if I want to use AI, I find myself opting for the web-based option of Gemini for research, testing features, or leisure tasks like interpreting tarot cards.I recently began experimenting with Gemini within Google Workspace, using the Rephrase tool to suggest synonyms for singular words. While this worked sometimes, it wasnt as comprehensive as Id have liked for AI. Id often get one word as a suggestion, and it wouldnt be a fit. I overall found it better to just go to Google search and get a more extensive list of alternatives. Even doing this in my word processor would often take me out of the flow of my writing, whereas pulling up a Google search, I expect to find a synonym, and I can just get back to what I was doing.Also outside of Microsoft 365, I have a basecamp file in Microsoft Notes that holds a mishmash of links, half-written drafts, and headline ideas of stories that go back so far, I dont remember. Ive undoubtedly written about this in the past myself Notes has also received Copilot+ updates. The Search with Bing function would be extremely beneficial for activating links instead of having to copy them from Notes into a web browser. That is a simple yet useful function I can add to my workflow.Whether or not I actively use the Copilot+ features, I do find my Microsoft 365 subscription to be beneficial in the capacity that I use its functions. When I need it, its there, and the AI is just icing on top.While the past two months since Microsoft increased its prices have evaded me, it is my goal to truncate my 365 subscription from the currently unused family plan to a personal plan, because I dont need to spend $13 per month to have Word read me my own stories.Editors Recommendations

For almost a decade, Elizabeth Olsens Scarlet Witch was a mainstay in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. After first being introduced in 2014s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Olsen went on to star in several other Marvel films and even her own TV show. In a recent interview with NPRsWild Card With Rachel Martin, Olsen said that she is still working to prove to the rest of Hollywood that shes more than just Marvel.I think I havent always successfully made choices in my work that are aligned with my personal taste and that is something I feel like Im still trying to prove when I meet people, Olsen said, explaining that her work as Scarlet Witch has shaped how the public sees her. Especially if its a work type meeting and be able to express my personal taste in films and literature, and so I still think I have that to prove.Recommended VideosShe added that, while she feels proud of working with Marvel, those movies arent necessarily what shes personally interested in.RelatedBecause I have spent so many years doing Marvel that I feel like all the other jobs I have to do have to really reflect my personal taste because as much as I love being a part of this world and Im proud of what Ive been able to do with the character its not really the art that I consume. Which I have been very honest about, she said.I thought they were such great Greek-type scale stories that reflected politics, culture in a really lovely way, she added, explaining why she joined in the first place. And so I felt really proud to jump into it. And then, within the last 10 years, its taken on this narrative of like, its like a hot take, whether an actor says they want to, they would never do a Marvel movie or not.Olsen has been careful to star in other, smaller projects alongside her Marvel work. For millions of fans, though, shell always be Scarlet Witch first and foremost.Editors Recommendations

Love crossword puzzles but dont have all day to sit and solve a full-sized puzzle in your daily newspaper? Thats what The Mini is for!A bite-sized version of the New York Times well-known crossword puzzle, The Mini is a quick and easy way to test your crossword skills daily in a lot less time (the average puzzle takes most players just over a minute to solve). While The Mini is smaller and simpler than a normal crossword, it isnt always easy. Tripping up on one clue can be the difference between a personal best completion time and an embarrassing solve attempt.Recommended VideosJust like ourWordle hints and Connections hints, were here to help with The Mini today if youre stuck and need a little help.RelatedBelow are the answers for the NYT Mini crossword today.New York TimesAcrossCummerbund, e.g. SASHCheese-covered chip NACHOSinger in a synagogue CANTORLike decision-making in a hierarchical organization TOPDOWNWhere a browser might get cookies? BAKERYMixes, as a drink STIRS10 in a lane PINSDownPolitician on a Fighting Oligarchy tour with Ocasio-Cortez SANDERSThe first A of SAG-AFTRA ACTORSFlamboyant SHOWYUnicorns defining feature HORNLap protector NAPKINRaccoon-like mammal of South America COATI1/16 of a cup: Abbr. TBSPEditors Recommendations

OpenAI is reconfiguring its rollout plan for upcoming AI models. The companys CEO, Sam Altman shared on social media on Friday that it will delay the launch of its GPT-5 large language model (LLM) in favor of some lighter reasoning models to release first.The brand will now launch new o3 and o4-mini reasoning models in the coming weeks as an alternative to the GPT-5 launch fans were expecting. In this time, OpenAIwill be smoothing out some issues in developing the LLM before a final rollout. The company hasnt detailed a specific timeline, just indicating that GPT-5 should be available in the coming months.Recommended VideosThere are a bunch of reasons for this, but the most exciting one is that we are going to be able to make GPT-5 much better than we originally thought, Altman said in an X post. We also found it harder than we thought it was going to be to smoothly integrate everything, and we want to make sure we have enough capacity to support what we expect to be unprecedented demand, he added.Prior reports suggested that GPT-5 might have been prepared for release in the May timeframe; however, several unforeseen developments have popped up since then. TechRadar noted that OpenAI is likely having to tackle the tons of new users its ChatGPT service has recently acquired. Its user base recently jumped from 400 million to 500 million in about an hour, after a design trend prompted by its latest GPT-4o image generation update went viral.While the GPT-5 update has been long anticipated, the incremental updates are expected to help set up the introduction of the major rollout. The publication noted that once the o3 and o4-mini models are available, OpenAI will have products called o4 and 4o within the ChatGPT ecosystem. This might be confusing for users, but by the time the GPT-5 model rolls out, it will have the capability to select the best model for your task.Users on the free tier of ChatGPT are also set to have limited access to the GPT-5 model. However, those with Plus and Pro subscriptions will really be able to take advantage of the coming developments.Editors Recommendations

Recently, another writer here detailed how much they love the OnePlus Watch 3s battery life, and it got me thinking about the watch line and what it has to offer. One thing I discovered that it was currently offering was this deal on the OnePlus Watch 2, where you can get it for $210 instead of $300, saving you $90. The OnePlus Watch 2 is a smartwatch that also has a decent battery life, but theres a lot more to it than that. So, tap the button below to see the deal for yourself or keep reading to see more about the OnePlus Watch 2s battery life, what other features it has, and why we think this is one of the best smartwatch deals out there right now.If, like Mark Jansen, you find that the batteries tend to suck on even the best smartwatches, youre probably still going to love the battery life of the OnePlus Watch 2. In our review of the OnePlus Watch 3, the watch that killed other smartwatches for Jansen, we found that it gave about four full days of use on a single charge. The OnePlus Watch 2 has a 100 hours battery life claim, but what did we really find when using it? Our OnePlus Watch 2 review find that in-the-field usage didnt quite reach 100 hours, but still said you can easily expect three (or more) days of use per charge and highlights the Power Save mode which extends the watchs battery life by literaldays in exchange for not having an always-on display, Wear OS apps, or Google Assistant. If the battery life of the OnePlus Watch 3 is what excites you the most about it, use this deal as a chance to reexplore the OnePlus Watch 2.And of course, theres more to a watch than battery life. The OnePlus Watch 2 does sleep tracking, blood oxygen tracking (something not all Apple watches are evenallowed to do anymore), and it has a whole host of exercise modes with sports ranging from your standard jog to a badminton game. You can get your data in a no-frills app that comes at you subscription-free, another fine bonus.RelatedAnd the final thing to like about the OnePlus Watch 2? Its low price on Amazon right now. Usually this watch would retail for $300, but this deal gets it in your hands for $210. Thats a savings of $90 if you buy now. Be sure to tap the button below to make sure you get this deal while you still can.Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsMarch Madness 2025: NCAA Tournament Final Four schedule, timesStream March Madness on SlingHow to watch March Madness from abroad with a VPNAfter two weeks of competition, the2025 NCAA Tournament heads to San Antonio for the Final Four. All four No. 1 seeds have reached the Final Four for only the second time in tournament history. The only other time it happened was in 2008. The remaining teams include Florida, Auburn, Duke, and Houston.Two teams Florida and Duke have won multiple championships. Florida won back-to-back titles in 2006 and 2007. Duke has five titles, with their last coming in 2015. Meanwhile, Auburn and Houston are searching for their first championships in school history. Auburn has never reached Mondays title game, while Houston lost consecutive championships in 1983 and 1984.Recommended VideosTwo teams will advance to Monday nights championship game. Find out how to watch the Final Four games below.Related#MFINALFOUR IS SET ALL FOUR 1-SEEDS MAKE IT FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2008 #MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/Ijq2FAencV NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 30, 2025No. 1 Florida vs. No. 1 Auburn start time, channel, and live streamDate: April 5Time: 6:09 p.m. ETChannel: CBSStream: Paramount+, March Madness LiveNo. 1 Duke vs. No. 1 Houston start time, channel, and live streamDate: April 5Time: 8:49 p.m. ETChannel: CBSStream: Paramount+, March Madness LivePhil Nickinson / Digital TrendsUnfortunately, CBS is not on . However, you can watch the Final Four with a Sling subscription through the March Madness Live app. If you open the app, you can authenticate a Sling subscription, which provides access to the games, even if theyre on CBS. Watch on your phone and computer.Sling offers two paid plans: Orange at $46 per month and Blue at $51 per month. You can combine both for a monthly price of $66. New customers will receive 50% off the first month.Derek Malcolm / Digital TrendsDont miss out on the Final Four because of streaming issues. If you plan on traveling abroad, make sure to download a VPN service to combat regional broadcast restrictions. The best VPN on the market is NordVPN, which offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, youll likely want to keep the service once you see how it protects your connection.Editors Recommendations

After upgrading with gaming PC deals, you should be on the lookout for monitor deals that will give justice to your new computers processing power. If youve already spent most of budget, dont worry because you can get a new screen for as low as $99 with this offer from B&H Photo Video. The retailer is offering a $20 discount for the Asus VU249CFE-B gaming monitor, pulling its already affordable original price of $119 even further down. Were not sure how long stocks will last for this display though, so we highly recommend hurrying with your purchase.Lets be honest here theres no way that the affordable Asus VU249CFE-B will challenge the features and performance of the best gaming monitors. However, its a solid option that checks most of the boxes in our computer monitor buying guide if youre a gamer. Its 100Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time enable smooth animations and fast reaction times while youre playing the best PC games, while Full HD resolution on its 24-inch screen will let you appreciate the sharp details in the graphics of the latest titles.A gamers desk can get cluttered with accessories, and the Asus VU249CFE-B gaming monitor will help with that with its built-in cable management system. The display also features the brands Eye Care Plus technology, which includes an adjustable blue light filter and a flicker-free screen to keep your eyes comfortable even after hours of playing. The monitor also has HDMI and USB-C ports, and auto brightness adjustment depending on your environments lighting.RelatedYou dont need to spend much if you want a new gaming monitor you wont even have to spend $100 with this deal from B&H Photo Video for the Asus VU249CFE-B. From its sticker price of $119, its down to just $99 following a $20 discount. Youre going to have to act fast and complete your transaction as soon as possible though, as theres a chance that the stocks of the Asus VU249CFE-B gaming monitor that are up for sale are already gone as soon as tomorrow.Editors Recommendations

Beats is one of our go-to brands for wireless earbuds and headphones. You can expect great sound quality from a majority of Beats stylish and performative in-ear and over-ear products, including the Studio Buds+. And it just so happens that the latter is actually on sale this week:Right now, when you purchase the Beats Studio Buds+ at Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and a handful of other retailers, youll only pay $100. The full MSRP on this model is $170.When we tested the Studio Buds+ back in 2023, reviewer Simon Cohen gave them 4 out of 5 stars and praised the buds for comfort, battery life, and ANC performance.RelatedThe Beats Studio Buds+ are an excellent choice for an everyday set of earbuds. On a full charge, you should get about 6 hours of battery life, and when the case is fully charged, it provides an extra 24 playback hours. Volume and ANC settings do affect the overall battery, but the Studio Buds+ should get you through the average work or school day without much hassle.The Studio Buds+ deliver great sound quality and solid left-right stereo imaging. The default audio profile provides a bit of extra bass in most mixes, so genres like rock, rap, and hip-hop sound particularly good. These earbuds also deliver an excellent ANC experience so that you can tune out distracting sounds like HVAC noise and workplace chatter.While we do wish Bluetooth Multipoint was a feature of these buds, Beats makes up for it with the Beats app (for iOS and Android devices), which lets you customize the touch controls for the Studio Buds+. Its also worth mentioning that the Studio Buds+ are IPX4-rated for water resistance, making them a great choice for hitting the gym or going for a run.Its difficult to say how long this sale might last, but were willing to bet these buds will be back to full price by early next week. That being said, today might be your last chance to save $70 on these in-ears.We also recommend looking through our lists of the best Beats headphone deals, best Bose headphone deals, and best headphone deals for even more discounts on top TWS buds.Editors Recommendations

We all know that Samsung makes some of the best TVs on the market in 2025, but the company also produces exceptional soundbars. Available in several shapes and sizes, one of Samsungs midrange models is actually on sale today:For a limited time, when you purchase the Samsung HW-S800D 3.1.2ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar at Amazon, Best Buy, Samsung, and a few other sites and stores, youll only pay $628. The full MSRP on this model is $898.The Samsung S800D is a great soundbar choice for those seeking an immersive audio experience when watching movies and shows and playing video games. The 3.1.2 configuration means the bar has up-firing drivers for firing sound up toward the ceiling, at which point the waves descend to your ears as height effects. This is exactly what the Dolby Atmos audio format is designed for. Just be sure to have the S800D connected via HDMI eARC for the best virtualization possible.RelatedBoasting Samsungs Ultra Slim moniker, the S800D is sleek enough to fit in unobtrusively with most TVs and home decor. It even looks great wall-mounted below a TV, especially any Samsung set released in the last five years or so. Once set up, youll also be able to use the Spacefit Sound Pro feature to calibrate the bar to deliver the best audio based on the unique acoustics of your listening space.Other awesome features include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, with the latter function allowing you to use Alexa or Google Assistant to stream music, search the web, and even control smart home devices.Save $270 when you purchase the Samsung HW-S800D 3.1.2ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar today, and be sure to take a look at our lists of the best soundbar deals, best Samsung TV deals, and best Samsung deals for even more discounts on top Samsung tech!Editors Recommendations

Apples iPhone might see a serious price hike in response to the recent tariffs, according to a report from Rosenblatt Securities. Analysts suggest the tariffs could result in a price increase of anywhere from 30% to 40%, if Apple chooses to pass the increased costs on to consumers. Neil Shah, an analyst from Counterpoint Research, suggests Apple would need to increase prices by 30% on average, while Rosenblatt analysts say the number is closer to 43%. To illustrate what that might look like, take a look at the current $799 price point for the iPhone 16. If its price increases by 43%, it would come out to around $1,142. On the other hand, the iPhone 16 Pro Max currently priced at $1,599 for its base model could jump to just under $2,300 ($2,286.57, to be exact.) Recommended VideosApple faces a difficult choice. Increasing the price of its phones to cover the cost of tariffs would result in fewer sales, as it would become more of a luxury item that those with limited budgets couldnt afford. A report from earlier this year showed that more people are buying used iPhones than new, and an increase in price would only further that trend. Andy Boxall / Digital TrendsEven the current cheapest iPhone, the iPhone 16e, would see a tremendous hike. It starts at $599, but would jump to more than $850 per unit. Amid the controversy surrounding Apples failure to fulfill its promises of a smarter, improved Siri, iPhone sales have floundered.RelatedChina responded to the tariffs by announcing reciprocal tariffs of 34%. Considering that many iPhones are still manufactured in China, alongside necessary components, this will result in even further price hikes. The end result of the tariffs isnt clear, but it seems obvious that the price of electronics and other consumer goods will increase by a not-inconsequential amount. Editors Recommendations

Jesse Armstrongs new movie is right around the corner.HBO announced that Armstrongs Mountainhead will premiere at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Saturday, May 31, 2025. The film will air on HBO and stream on Max.Recommended VideosMountainhead follows a group of billionaire friends get together against the backdrop of a rolling international crisis. The images reveal the films setting a luxurious house located on top of the mountain. RelatedMountainhead stars Steve Carell as Randall, Jason Schwartzman as Souper (Hugo Van Yalk), Cory Michael Smith as Venis, and Ramy Youssef as Jeff. The ensemble features Hadley Robinson as Hester, Andy Daly as Casper, Ali Kinkade as Berry, Daniel Oreskes as Dr. Phipps, David Thompson as Leo, Ami MacKenzie as Janine, and Ava Kostia as Paula.Armstrong and HBO are moving extremely fast on Mountainhead, which began filming in Park City, Utah, last month. HBO notes that production ends this week. Armstrong writes, executive produces, and directs Mountainhead, which also marks his feature directorial debut. Additional executive producers include Frank Rich, Lucy Prebble, Jon Brown, Tony Roche, Will Tracy, Mark Mylod, and Jill Footlick.Mountainhead marks Armstrongs first major project since Succession, HBOs Emmy-winning drama series that ran from 2018 to 2023. The fourth and final season won numerous Emmys, including Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series (Mark Mylod), Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series (Armstrong), and acting wins for Kieran Culkin, Sarah Snook, and Matthew Macfadyen. May 31 is the final day of Emmy eligibility for the 2024-2025 television season. With strong reviews, Mountainhead could be a major contender at the 2025 Emmys in September. Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsWe Happy FewWargroove 2All You Need is HelpThe big news of the week was easily the full reveal and details for the Nintendo Switch 2. While there were a lot of exciting upcoming Switch 2 games shown off for later in the year, usGame Pass players dont have to wait long at all for some great upcoming Xbox Series X games.South of Midnight is right around the corner, andClair Obscur is not far behind. This weekend, we got creative and fun to give you a nice trio of options on Game Pass you probably didnt get to when they came out. These are the best Game Pass games you should be playing this weekend.The last game Compulsion Games made before South of Midnightwas the misunderstoodWe Happy Few.The initial trailers gave off the impression of a linear, BioShock-like experience which ended up not being the case. That said, if you take We Happy Few for what it is then you can start to appreciate it. Set in an alternate history 1960s England with various sci-fi elements tossed in. What players werent expecting was a first-person survival game with some roguelike elements, but still has a distinct structure. You go through three acts as three different characters who are all trying to escape the city for various reasons. Its not perfect, but certainly worth a revisit before the teams next game to see how it stacks up.Recommended VideosWe Happy Fewis available now on PS4, Xbox One, and PC.RelatedWho doesnt love a great tactics game to cozy up with over a quiet weekend? Wargroove 2is a beautifully animated game that will easily suck you in thanks to the addictive gameplay. You will need to balance resource gathering, unit recruitment, and battles all at once on the map. While the combat is done with the usual rock-paper-scissors format, Wargroove 2 has its unique groove system where commander units gain buffs each time they take an action that can be cashed out for a special move. Besides the campaign you can also dive into the Conquest mode which offers an endless amount of procedurally generated maps to challenge yourself with.Wargroove 2is available now on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC.If the Nintendo news has put you in the mood for something bright, colorful, and full of pure joy then all you need is All You Need is Help.The trailer alone should be enough to sell anyone on how adorable this game is, and going in knowing nothing else is the best way to go. Theres no massive plot twist or anything to spoil, but the puzzles and quirky interactions you and your co-op partners will have is where the game shines. Be aware, howerver, that All You Need is Help is a game that cant be played alone so you will either need someone nearby or be willing to go online to team up to play.All You Need is Helpis available now on PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.Editors Recommendations

Love crossword puzzles but dont have all day to sit and solve a full-sized puzzle in your daily newspaper? Thats what The Mini is for!A bite-sized version of the New York Times well-known crossword puzzle, The Mini is a quick and easy way to test your crossword skills daily in a lot less time (the average puzzle takes most players just over a minute to solve). While The Mini is smaller and simpler than a normal crossword, it isnt always easy. Tripping up on one clue can be the difference between a personal best completion time and an embarrassing solve attempt.Recommended VideosJust like ourWordle hints and Connections hints, were here to help with The Mini today if youre stuck and need a little help.RelatedBelow are the answers for the NYT Mini crossword today.New York TimesAcrossElphabas broom in Wicked or Aladdins lamp in Aladdin PROPThorough investigation PROBEMetaphor for an unquestioning rule-follower ROBOTHarvard and Yale, for two IVIES___ Wearhouse (department store chain) MENSDownDefinitively determine PROVEHerald of spring ROBINOrchestral reeds OBOESKibble nibblers PETSFastidiously proper PRIMEditors Recommendations

With the release of iOS 18.4, CarPlay users were set to experience new features to improve the in-car experience. Unfortunately, according to AutoEvolution, many users face a series of frustrating bugs following the software release.A recent Reddit thread highlights several issues. Many iPhone users report various CarPlay connectivity problems following the update to iOS 18.4. One of the most common issues involves the integration with the instrument cluster, where CarPlay no longer displays Now Playing information on the cars gear cluster.Recommended VideosConnectivity problems are significant, with some users stating that their iPhones are connecting and disconnecting repeatedly when using wireless CarPlay. Others have mentioned that it often requires multiple attemptsplugs and unplugs or even car restartingbefore CarPlay successfully connects.RelatedNumerous vehicle models have reported these issues, including those from Honda, Mazda, Volkswagen, Audi, and Nissan. Some users noted that Volkswagen customer service has acknowledged the problems associated with iOS 18.4 but pointed out that Apple needs to fix them.Standard troubleshooting steps such as device reboots and system resets have not resolved the problems for many users. These issues appear to be directly linked to the iOS 18.4 update, as affected users have indicated that everything functioned properly prior to installing this version.Ironically, iOS 18.4 was meant to introduce several improvements to CarPlay, including support for a third row of app icons on vehicles with larger displays, integration of sports apps, and the ability to select a default navigation app other than Apple Maps for EU users.Apple has not officially acknowledged these problems or announced when a fix might be available.Apple released iOS 18.4 earlier this week. In addition to the new CarPlay features mentioned above, this update allows users in the European Union to change their default navigation app. Because of this, Siri voice commands can work seamlessly with third-party apps like Google Maps. This change was made to comply with the EUs Digital Markets Act.The iOS update also includes new emojis and various other improvements.Editors Recommendations

Artificial General Intelligence is a huge topic right now even though no one has agreed what AGI really is. Some scientists think its still hundreds of years away and would need tech that we cant even begin to imagine yet, while Google DeepMind says it could be here by 2030 and its already planning safety measures. Its not uncommon for the science community to disagree on topics like this, and its good to have all of our bases covered with people planning for both the immediate future and the distant future. Still, five years is a pretty shocking number. Recommended VideosRight now, the frontier AI projects known to the public are all LLMs fancy little word guessers and image generators. ChatGPT, for example, is still terrible at math, and every model Ive ever tried is awful at listening to instructions and editing their responses accurately. Anthropics Claude still hasnt beaten Pokmon and as impressive as the language skills of these models are, theyre still trained on all the worst writers in the world and have picked up plenty of bad habits. Its hard to imagine jumping from what we have now to something that, in DeepMinds words, displays capabilities that match or exceed that of the 99th percentile of skilled adults. In other words, DeepMind thinks that AGI will be as smart or smarter than the top 1% of humans in the world. So, what kind of risks does DeepMind think an Einstein-level AGI could pose? According to the paper, we have four main categories: misuse, misalignment, mistakes, and structural risks. They were so close to four Ms, thats a shame. DeepMind considers misuse to be things like influencing political races with deepfake videos or impersonating people during scams. It mentions in the conclusion that its approach to safety centers around blocking malicious actors access to dangerous capabilities. That sounds great, but DeepMind is a part of Google and there are plenty of people who would consider the U.S. tech giant to be a potential bad actor itself. Sure, Google hopefully wont try to steal money from elderly people by impersonating their grandchildren but that doesnt mean it wont use AGI to bring itself profit while ignoring consumers best interests. It looks like misalignment is the Terminator situation, where we ask the AI for one thing and it just does something completely different. That one is a little bit uncomfortable to think about. DeepMind says the best way to counter this is to make sure we understand how our AI systems work in as much detail as possible, so we can tell when something is going wrong, where its going wrong, and how to fix it. This goes against the whole spontaneous emergence of capabilities and the concept that AGI will be so complex that we wont know how it works. Instead, if we want to stay safe, we need to make sure we do know whats going on. I dont know how hard that will be but it definitely makes sense to try. The last two categories refer to accidental harm either mistakes on the AIs part or things just getting messy when too many people are involved. For this, we need to make sure we have systems in place that approve the actions an AGI wants to take and prevent different people from pulling it in opposite directions. While DeepMinds paper is completely exploratory, it seems there are already plenty of ways we can imagine AGI going wrong. This isnt as bad as it sounds the problems we can imagine are the problems we can best prepare for. Its the problems we dont anticipate that are scarier, so lets hope were not missing anything big. Editors RecommendationsWatch Google DeepMinds robotic ping-pong player take on humans

While TikTok has stormed ahead to become the platform most people turn to when they want short form videos, plenty of other social medial companies are trying to get in on the action too. From Instagrams Reels to YouTubes Shorts, platforms are trying to keep up with the popularity of the short, snappy video format that TikTok has popularized. Now, YouTube is pushing ahead with its Shorts competitor, by introducing a suite of new features designed to make creating and editing short videos easier and more fun.Recommended VideosThe new creation tools for YouTube Shorts will arrive this spring, and will include AI-powered features and an improved video editor. The editor will allow more precise adjustments of video timing, which is crucial for short form content, and in a clear nod to TikToks love for viral songs, the video creator will be able to automatically align video clips to the beat of a song, creating a synced edit. RelatedThe editor itself is going to be much more powerful. Its going to allow you to pinch and zoom and find the right moments in the shorts that you can really make your own, said YouTubes Chief Product Officer, Johanna Voolich, in a video discussing the changes. So its just going to be a much more powerful experience.There will also be the addition of AI stickers, which can be quickly generated from a text prompt and then added straight into a Short. Other stickers created from images in your gallery can be added too, making it a quick way to add some personalization to your videos.Finally, the templates feature will get an update, so you can copy the style and effects of popular formats straight into your own Short. And in a nice nod to credit sharing, when you use a template for your Shorts it will automatically attribute that template to its original creator.Editors Recommendations

Even though MidJourney set out to be one of the most promising image generation models in the early days of AI, it appears to have fallen behind more accessible, easy to use, and free tools such Gemini, ChatGPT, and Bing. Adding to its woes is the latest update to OpenAIs GPT-4o model which allows exceptionally good image generation with the ability to recreate real photos and produce immaculate text. So to stay relevant or perhaps catch the hype train being shunted by the wave of Studio Ghibli-inspired AI art flooding the internet, MidJourney is rolling out an updated model with several improvements.CEO David Holz announced details of the new V7 model on MidJourneys official Discord server and through a blog post. They said the new model is smarter with text prompts and produces images with noticeably higher quality and beautiful textures. Recommended VideosThe model is also capable of generating images in a jiffy, roughly 10 times as fast as the current model, Holz says, as the mode is designed for brainstorming and frequent iterations. You can switch to the Conversational mode (only on web) and recreate part of the image without having to rewrite the prompt entirely or using the Edit mode. The images are of lower quality and cost half of what regular images do. The Conversational mode is substituted by a Voice mode when you use the Discord app on your computer or mobile. Holz says it enables you to think out loud and let the images flow beneath you like liquid dreams. This feature is also part of the newly introduced Draft mode. Additionally, MidJourney V7 can be run in Relax and Turbo modes for high-resolution images (than Draft mode), and using the latter will cost you twice as many credits in exchange for faster image production. The new V7 model currently lacks some functionality and workflows will default back to the previous V6.1 for tasks that need upscaling, inpainting, and retexturing. Finally, the model also enables Personalization where you can save preferences on how you like your images and expect the model to produce results accordingly. This would require a five-minute setup, which takes you through a series of 200 images that you can choose to tune your preference.Tushar Mehta / Digital TrendsMidJourney is currently running a community-driven alpha test for the model, and promises additional features in the next 60 days. You can try it by typing /settings in the chat box in Discord or the web platform, send the message, and change the default model to V7 from the settings that emerge. Editors Recommendations

The saga of Samsungs ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge has taken a couple of interesting turns, and not necessarily the good kind. Well start with the good news first. It was recently reportedly that management struggles at the company may have delayed the phones launch to the May-June period.Now, it seems Samsung has locked on a release date, and its sooner than expected. A reliable leakster (via SamMobile) has claimed that the phone will be announced officially on May 13. Previously, it was heavily rumored to arrive midway through April, before the corporate shuffle happened.Recommended VideosAs far as the announcement goes, it will reportedly be an online-only affair, sans any glitzy launch event. The bigger mystery is whether it will go on sale the same month, or the next, and how much it is going to cost due to recent geopolitical events.Alexis Garza / YouTubeThe Galaxy S25 Edge is expected to offer a 6.7-inch OLED display, while Qualcomms top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC keeps things ticking under the hood. The shell is reportedly made out of titanium, while the cross-section profile is said to be under six millimeters.RelatedThe upcoming phone is rumored to offer a huge 200-megapixel primary camera accompanied by a 12MP ultrawide lens. Unfortunately, due to its thin profile, the battery size could be even smaller than the one fitted inside the mainline Galaxy S25.The more pressing dilemma, however, is the pricing situation. So far, the majority of insider reports and industry analysts have predicted an asking price between the Galaxy S25+ and its Ultra variant. That would mean a sticker price north of a thousand dollars.Alexis Garza / YouTubeThe industry, however, got a shock within the past couple of days as President Donald Trump announced a sweeping set of new tariffs. Notably, these tariffs are hitting regions that are manufacturing hubs for Samsung and Apple, such as Vietnam, China, and India. As per experts, a price hike is nearly inevitable due to the tariff situation.Apple, Samsung, Google and other players rely on complex, deeply integrated networks all outside of the US, CounterPoint Research said in a statement shared with Digital Trends. Moving manufacturing stateside isnt happening overnight (or ever) without massive government subsidies and round-the-clock availability of skilled labor, and even then, prices will soar because of a lack of cost arbitrage.The impact wont be spread evenly, and how it reflects on the final price will also vary on a per-brand basis. In Samsungs case, over half of its phones are assembled in Vietnam, which just got hit with the highest tariff among all the target nations, at 46%, as per Koreas Chosun News.Nirave Gondhia / Digital TrendsStill, industry experts agree that Samsung and Apple will have no choice but to raise smartphone prices in the U.S. due to the tariff fallout, adds the report. It would be interesting to see how Samsung balances the tariffs as the regional supply chain grapples with higher costs.Coming back to the Galaxy S25 Edge, it was already going to be a pricey phone. With the new tariffs hitting nearly all the assembly hubs for Samsung, it would be interesting to see whether the company absorbs the higher manufacturing costs or passes them on to the average buyer. Theres a chance that Samsung might put an introductory price on the table for a limited time to drive uptake, and then raise it a few months later.Editors Recommendations

The Start Menu has been the central element in Microsoft Windows for nearly three decades. Though loved initially for its resourcefulness, the Menu went through some debatable I call them abhorrent changes with Windows 8, but eventually returned to occupying less space in the interface with Windows 8.1, and then Windows 10 and 11. Despite the rescuing, it is still reeling under the damaging changes in the form of recommendations and random automatically populating lists that reduce it to a mere glorified search interface. However, Microsoft may now be looking to resolve these issues and bringing back a more simplified interface with an upcoming update. Microsoft is testing a new interface for Start Menu on Windows 11, reducing the existing clutter of randomly interspersed apps and files. X user @phantomofearth, renowned for testing new features in Windows Insider builds, gave us a good look at the new interface in a detailed video walkthrough. First off, the video shows that the updated interface rids away of the current split view that comprises Pinned and Recommended sections and merges them into a single section. It adds a third section labelled All, which lists every installed app, which was previously accessible by clicking the All button next on top of the Pinned section. These can be arranged into an alphabetical list or a grid with folders compiling apps based on their category. Recommended VideosThe overhauled Start Menu also gets a vertically scrolling layout, so all your apps can be accessed through a single page with fewer button clicks or taps. In addition, the Start Menu also lets you hide recommendations entirely if youd like it that way. The idea is to seemingly give Windows 11 users more control over the menus usability. Windows XPs Start Menu Digital TrendsWhile its difficult for the Start Menu to return to its glorious Windows XP days, I expect some respite from the barrage of unwanted ads with these improvements. These changes are coming to the latest Windows 11 Insider preview builds in the Dev and Beta channels, with build numbers 26200.5518 and 26120.3671, respectively. That means you cant immediately access it unless you are part of those Insider channels. Microsoft hasnt officially made any announcements on when the new Start Menu interface will be available for stable channels and whether it will be or not. However, with Microsofts Copilot event, along with the companys 50th Anniversary celebration, lined up for early morning tomorrow, we can expect it to share some news. Editors Recommendations

Amazon is taking some inspiration from the TV shows available on its Prime Video streaming platform, and porting it over to Kindle e-readers to keep users up to date on their progress. The feature in question is called Recaps, and as the name suggests, it will offer readers a quick look at the story progress and character development arc so far.Think of it as the Previously on segment at the start of each new episode on a TV show, but in a text format, for digital books. The feature is already available for e-books in the English language for users in the United States, covering purchased as well as borrowed copies.Recommended VideosIts a phased rollout, however, and might take several weeks to reach users via a software update. For now, it is limited to Kindle devices, but will soon expand to the dedicated iOS app, well.RelatedFor books that have recaps ready for viewers, they will show a dedicated View Recaps button on the series overview page in library, or buried within the three-dot menu under the same name for each books listing.AmazonBy adding a new level of convenience to series reading, the Recaps feature enables readers to dive deeper into complex worlds and characters without losing the joy of discovery, all while ensuring an uninterrupted reading experience across every genre, says the company.In case you havent received the update yet, you can find instructions on manually installing the latest build on Amazons support page. The build in question is v5.18.1, and for now, it is available for the 12th, 11th, and 10th gen Kindle Paperwhite, the 10th and 11th gen baseline Kindle, and the 10th Gen Kindle Oasis.Interestingly, Amazon says it relies on a mix of AI and human efforts to generate book recaps. The company told TechCrunch that recaps will accurately reflect book content, which is a bold claim, considering AIs well-known hallucination problems.Kindle e-readers recently landed a cool page turn feature, while on the AI side, the company introduced an agentic tool called Nova Act that will autonomously perform browser-based tasks for you, like ordering food or booking appointments. The next-gen Alexa+ assistant, on the other hand, is having a slow start with multiple missing features during early tests.Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsThe Doors (1991)Tropic Thunder (2008)Grown Ups (2010)Calling all builders, its time to watch A Minecraft Movie. Warner Bros. might have its first hit in 2025 with an adaptation of the best-selling video game of all time. Jason Momoa and Jack Black will surely attract families to the theaters. With tracking continuing to surge past $70 million, A Minecraft Moviecould get a quick sequel announcement.Unsurprisingly, kids are the primary audience for A Minecraft Movie.Afterward, the parents need something to watch. Why not save money and stream a free movie on a FAST service? One of our selections honors the late Val Kilmer, who tragically died this past week at the age of 65. Its one of Kilmers four biggest roles and perhaps his most memorable.Recommended VideosWe also have guides to the best new movies to stream, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max,andthe best movies on Disney+.RelatedTri-Star PicturesAfter Val Kilmer passed, actress Jennifer Tilly shared a story about meeting the actor while auditioning for The Doors. Tilly wrote on X that Kilmer walked into the audition barefoot, shirtless, and wearing nothing but a pair of tight leather pants. Tilly knew that Kilmer would play Jim Morrison, and nobody else stood a chance.Oliver StonesThe Doorsfollows the rise, fall, and tragic ending of Jim Morrison (Kilmer), the lead singer of The Doors. The band goes from local stars to overnight celebrities, mainly due to Jims magnetic persona. However, Jims drug addiction and foray into cult activities caused many disputes with the band. While not the greatest movie, its a bold performance from Kilmer, whose commitment to the role is worth celebrating.Stream The Doors for free on Pluto TV.DreamWorks Pictures / Paramount PicturesThe children might love Jack Black in A Minecraft Movie, but the adults will appreciate his humor inTropic Thunder. On the fictional production of the war movie Tropic Thunder, director Damien Cockburn (Steve Coogan) decides to drop his cast into the real jungle and film their reactions.The cast includes Tugg Speedman (Ben Stiller), Kirk Lazarus (Robert Downey Jr.), Alpha Chino (Brandon T. Jackson), and Jeff Portnoy (Black). The group doesnt realize that they are in the middle of a dangerous war zone. They remain unfazed even after Damien dies. Now, these clueless actors must band together and survive the elements. Cue the music, fat-handed Tom Cruise.Stream Tropic Thunder for free on Tubi.Columbia TriStarAdam Sandler casting his friends in a movie to go on vacation and film is a tale as old as time. Dont listen to the critics; Grown Upsis dumb fun in all the best ways. The comedy brings together the starting five of Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, and Rob Schneider.Childhood friends Lenny Feder (Sandler), Eric Lamonsoff (James), Kurt McKenzie (Rock), Marcus Higgins (Spade), and Rob Hilliard (Schneider) reunite at a lake house over the Fourth of July weekend to honor their late basketball coach. Its like no time has passed since their last meeting years ago. Be prepared for some inside jokes and good laughs with five genuine friends.Stream Grown Ups for free on Tubi.Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsSeven Seconds (2018)White Collar (2009-2014)Alias Grace (2017)As has been well documented since the dawn of the streaming era, the interfaces behind some of your favorite streaming services arent actually all that good. Netflix, for example, has tons of good shows, but unless its algorithm decides to surface them, you might struggle to find them.Thankfully, thats where we come in. Weve pulled together three great shows that you can watch this weekend, each of which might get a little buried by Netflix. Each of these shows strikes a different tone or mood, but all of them are excellent and well worth your time.Recommended VideosWe also have guides to the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max,andthe best movies on Disney+.RelatedAnchored by the remarkable Regina King,Seven Secondstells the story of a hit-and-run that kills a young Black man. The crime, which a white police officer committed, leads to incredible racial tension across Jersey City.King plays an assistant prosecutor who wants to pursue hate crime charges, and the series tracks the case as it winds its way toward trial, all as the city threatens to erupt in hurt and anger. Seven Secondshappened before the George Floyd protests of 2020, but speaks incredibly well to the moment of racial animus that we are still living through seven years after its release.You can watchSeven Secondson Netflix.White Collar Trailer Season 1Truly, the kind of TV show we dont get enough of anymore, White Collartells the story of a white-collar criminal who teams up with the FBI to catch other criminals. Using his canny instincts, he can understand the minds of the criminals hes going after and figure out what their next move might be.Anchored by Matt Bomers winning charisma and remarkably light on its feet, White Collarran for six seasons on USA, and honestly, its the kind of show (like Suits) that feels like it could have just kept running forever.You can watchWhite Collaron Netflix.Based on a Margaret Atwood novel of the same name,Alias Gracetells the story of an Irish immigrant working in Upper Canada who is sentenced to life in prison for killing her employer. The series tells Graces story in an attempt to unravel her exact reasons for committing the crime and to understand the life she led beforehand. Anchored by Sarah Gadons quiet, often surprising central performance and adapted by Women Talkings Sarah Polley, the series is one of the most unheralded miniseries that Netflix has ever released.You can watchAlias Graceon Netflix.Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsDrinking Buddies (2013)Batman Forever (1995)Tuesday (2023)If youre interested in the legal dispute between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, In Dispute: Lively v Baldoni is now streaming on Max. The documentary has quickly become the most popular movie on the service. Elsewhere, new releases likeQueerandHereticare finding an even bigger audience on streaming than during their theatrical run.Moving past the homepage, youll find a great selection of underrated movies. One of these films is a critically panned superhero adventure. However, it has regained popularity due to the tragic death of its lead. You can view that movie and two more below.Recommended VideosWe also have guides to the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max,andthe best movies on Disney+.RelatedMagnolia PicturesFilmmaker Joe Swanberg is a prominent figure in the mumblecore movement. Mumblecore films are typically low-budget and emphasize dialogue and improvisation over the plot. Drinking Buddiesis an aptly named entry into the mumblecore genre. Who talks more than people who drink beer?Kate (Olivia Wilde) and Luke (Jake Johnson) are friends who work at a Chicago brewery. You would assume the co-workers are dating because of their natural chemistry and comedic interactions. However, Kate and Luke are both in relationships. When they invite their significant others to hang out with them, things get a little awkward, as Kate and Jake contemplate their feelings for each other. Its a low-stakes, charming relationship drama that pairs perfectly with a beer.Stream Drinking Buddies on Max.Warner Bros. PicturesConsidering his propensity for making bold choices, Kilmer playing a stoic Bruce Wayne feels wrong. It wasnt as egregious as putting nipples on the batsuit. However,Batman Foreverhas some redeeming qualities, including two out-of-this-world performances from Jim Carrey and Tommy Lee Jones.With Gotham facing threats from the Riddler (Carrey) and Two-Face (Tommy Lee Jones), Batman must end their reign of terror before the villains reveal his true identity. Meanwhile, Batman grapples with a potential partner, Dick Grayson (Chris ODonnell), while Bruce navigates love with Chase Meridian (Nicole Kidman). Considering how ridiculous some superhero movies have gotten, Kilmers steady presence is rather refreshing.Stream Batman Forever on Max.A24When shes not making audiences laugh on SeinfeldorVeep, Julia Louis-Dreyfus does some great dramatic work in independent films. In 2023, Louis-Dreyfus starred in the little-seen Tuesday, a fantasy drama that acts as a meditation on grief and death. Zora (Louis-Dreyfus) has yet to accept that her 15-year-old daughter, Tuesday (Lola Petticrew), will soon die due to a terminal illness.One day, Death, in the form of a talking macaw, visits Tuesday and informs her that her time is up on Earth. Accepting her fate, Tuesday asks to remain alive until her mother comes home, and Death respects her request. However, Zora realizes that Death has come and tries to delay the inevitable. Tuesdayis definitely weird, but the actors commitment shines, resulting in an effective parent-child story.Stream Tuesday on Max.Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsTombstone (1993)Black Swan (2010)Rushmore (1999)If you visited the Hulu home page this week, you may have noticed that the streamer was promoting Tombstone, one of the best movies that Val Kilmer ever starred in. Kilmer passed away earlier this week, and Tombstones return to Hulu on April 1 was purely happenstance. But in honor of the the late actor, it seems fitting to name Tombstone as one of the three great Hulu movies that you need to stream this weekend.Our remaining two picks for the weekend include a harrowing psychological thriller and a comedy/drama from one of the quirkiest directors in Hollywood.Recommended VideosNeed more recommendations? We also have guides to the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max,andthe best movies on Disney+.RelatedBuena Vista PicturesTombstone was supposed to be Kurt Russells movie, and he does play the lead character, Wyatt Earp. But Val Kilmer stole the entire film every time he was onscreen as Wyatts best friend, Doc Holliday. Even Docs terminal tuberculosis cant keep him from standing by his friend and Wyatts brothers, Morgan (Bill Paxton) and Virgil (Sam Elliott), when their new lives in Tombstone are threatened.Curly Bill Brocius (Powers Booth) and his Cowboys gang are terrorizing the people of Tombstone, but the Wyatts and Holiday arent taking it lying down. One of the most famous shootouts in the old west is revisited in this film, but this is one story that will only end when one side is firmly six feet under.Watch Tombstone on Hulu.BLACK SWAN | Official Trailer | FOX SearchlightDirector Darren Aronofsky and screenwriters Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John McLaughlin turned one womans single-minded quest to star in Swan Lake into a thrilling psychological horror story. When Beth MacIntyre (Winona Ryder) is forced out of the New York City Ballet by artistic director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel), Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman) sees her chance to land the coveted dual role of Odette the White Swan, and her twin, Odile, the Black Swan.Although Nina is told shes only suitable for the White Swan, she refuses to give up. However, she feels threatened by a rival dancer, Lily (Mila Kunis), who may be more like the Black Swan than Nina will ever be. To achieve her dream, Nina needs to embrace her inner darkness regardless of what it means for her life outside of ballet.Watch Black Swan on Hulu.Image used with permission by copyright holderLost in Translation tends to be given the credit for letting Bill Murray show off his dramatic chops, but Murrays career renaissance actually started a few years earlier in director Wes Andersons Rushmore. Murray plays Herman Blume, an industrialist who is largely estranged from his wife and children. But Herman has an unexpectedly strong bond with Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman), one of the classmates of his son.Maxs quirks complement Hermans, but thats not all they have in common. Max is deeply infatuated with a teacher at Rushmore, Rosemary Cross (Olivia Williams), whom Herman is also attracted to. Their shared pursuit of Rosemary may shatter their special friendship and leave both of them brokenhearted.Watch Rushmore on Hulu.Editors Recommendations

NetflixTable of ContentsTable of ContentsBeasts of No Nation (2015)The Kitchen (2023)Solo (2018)Tired of scrolling past the same Netflix recommendations over and over? Youre not alonethe algorithm loves to push the biggest blockbusters and buzziest new releases front and center. But behind all the flashy thumbnails lies a treasure trove of underrated movies just waiting to be found. These are the kind of films that might not have received much hype but still pack a serious punch.Recommended VideosWhether youre in the mood for a suspenseful drama, a chilling dystopia, or an award-winning war film, theres something unexpected ready to surprise you. Forget the same old picks and take a chance at these hidden gems that bring bold yet overlooked stories. Get ready with some popcorn and gear up for a fun weekend with these underappreciated movies on Netflix.RelatedWe also have guides to the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max,andthe best movies on Disney+.NetflixIn an unnamed West African country on the brink of chaos, the young boy Agu (Abraham Attah) finds his idyllic childhood shattered as civil war engulfs his village. Separated from his family amidst the turmoil, Agu joins child soldiers, learning to live and act like one himself under the command of the ruthless man simply known as Commandant (Idris Elba). Through Agus eyes, viewers are taken on a brutal journey that exposes the devastating impact of war on innocents.Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, Beasts of No Nation is a one-of-a-kind war film that attempts to capture the psyche of a child ensnared by the horrors of conflict. Abraham Attah delivers a performance of staggering depth, capturing Agus transformation from a carefree boy to a hardened soldier. This heartbreaking arc is complemented by Idris Elbas role as a menacing figure who manipulates young recruits without leaving space for weakness or empathy. Despite its critical acclaim and numerous accolades, the 2015 film remains criminally underrated in the larger conversation of the best in the genre and of that decade. As the first film released on Netflix, it caused quite a stir in the industry. Beast of No Nations simultaneous limited theatrical distributionled major cinema chains to boycott the film, reducing its exposure to broader audiences.Beasts of No Nationis streaming on Netflix.NetflixThe Kitchen takes place in a dystopian London of 2040, where soaring housing prices and the dismantling of social welfare have transformed the city into a playground for billionaires. The marginalized find refuge in the last remaining social housing complex, The Kitchen, where a man, Izi (Kane Robinson), who hopes to change his situation, crosses paths with a 12-year-old orphan, Benji (Jedaiah Bannerman). Their bond transforms their initial goals, and Izi is soon confronted with choices that could affect his whole community.Directed by Get Out star Daniel Kaluuya and Kibwe Tavares, The Kitchens most impressive aspect is undoubtedly its world-building, as it offers a stunning portrait of a society teetering on the edge of collapse. Its future version of London is marked by stark contrasts, with its gleaming skyscrapers overshadowing dilapidated high-rises, capturing the chasm between wealth and poverty. While its setting threatens to overpower its plot, which hits familiar beats, the dystopian sci-fi is still a powerful watch for fans of eat-the-rich movies that are unflinching in their depiction of the consequences of systemic inequality.The Kitchenis streaming on Netflix.NetflixOn a Spanish island, Fuerteventura, the suspenseful true story of surfer lvaro Vizcano (portrayed by Alain Hernndez) unfolds. Solo follows the protagonist who, after a night of heavy drinking and personal drama, goes on a solo surfing expedition to clear his mind. However, a misstep leads him to plummet off a steep cliff, resulting in severe injuries, including a broken hip and head trauma. Stranded on an isolated beach with no immediate hope for rescue, lvaro confronts not only the merciless forces of nature but also his past choices. Over 48 grueling hours, he battles physical and mental agony and strives to survive against overwhelming odds.Since there was a much more popular Soloset in a galaxy far, far away and also released in 2018, audiences can be forgiven for completely missing out on the Spanish counterpart set in the Canary archipelago. Directed by Hugo Stuven, the survival drama is a visually stunning dive into the depths of one mans storyhis regrets, his relationships, and more. Its non-linear storytelling may sometimes jolt viewers out of the intensity of his struggle to stay alive, but they do add necessary layers to the narrative that will have anyone rooting for lvaro in the end.Solois streaming on Netflix.Editors Recommendations

SpaceX has just test fired a Super Heavy booster ahead of the Starships ninth flight test.The ground-based firing of the worlds most powerful rocket took place at SpaceXs Starbase site in Boca Chica, Texas, on Thursday.Recommended VideosNotably, the upcoming flight test will involve the first-ever reuse of a Super Heavy booster, with this particular one having made its maiden flight in the seventh test in January 2025.Related SpaceX shared footage of Thursdays static fire in a post on social media:The reuse of rocket boosters is a key part of SpaceXs spaceflight system. The company has been landing and reusing the first stage of its workhorse Falcon 9 rocket for years, helping the company to drastically cut the cost of spaceflight. Doing the same with the Super Heavy, however, is a more challenging endeavor due to the rockets much larger size, and because rather than landing on a hard surface like the Falcon 9, SpaceX is using a new method involving giant mechanical arms on the launch tower that secure the Super Heavy above the ground as it returns.SpaceX has so far managed to successfully bring home the Super Heavy booster three times, achieving the remarkable feat for the first time in October last year. The Elon Musk-led spaceflight company said the first Super Heavy reuse will be a step toward its goal of zero-touch reflight, in other words, repeated liftoffs without the Super Heavy touching the ground between missions.A date has yet to be set for the ninth flight test of the Starship, which comprises the first-stage Super Heavy and the upper stage Starship spacecraft.The last two tests saw the spacecraft break up in the air due to recurring propulsion system issues linked to structural vibrations and fuel line vulnerabilities. Having now addressed those issues, SpaceX engineers will be desperate for the upcoming test to fill its mission goals, which will include a soft landing of the spacecraft in the Indian Ocean.SpaceX is aiming to ramp up testing of the Starship this year as NASA is hoping to use a modified version of the spacecraft to land two astronauts on the moon in the highly anticipated Artemis III mission, which is currently scheduled for 2027.Editors Recommendations

Samsung soundbars are a fantastic addition to any home theater setup, but theyre also a great investment for any situation where TV speakers simply arent cutting it anymore. Samsung has been perfecting soundbar tech over the last several years, and some older models are still available brand-new, including the HW-Q600C.For a limited time, this Samsung 3.1.2ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar is on sale for $330 at Amazon, Best Buy, Samsung, and a handful of other retailers. Thats a $270 discount from its usual $600.Serving as a perfect middle ground between entry-level soundbars and premium units that cost upwards of $2,000, the Samsung HW-Q600C is the upgrade your TV speakers have been waiting for.RelatedThanks to the 3.1.2 speaker configuration, the bar itself serves as the left-center-right portion of a surround system and has two side-firing drivers to create a wider soundstage. While a proper Dolby Atmos system is what youll want for complete three-dimensional immersion, the Q600C does a great job at filling small to medium-sized rooms with pulse-pounding audio. Expect a warm and balanced sound profile with solid stereo imaging and pretty decent surround sound emulation.Connecting the HW-Q600C to an existing TV is as easy as can be since youll only have to worry about choosing HDMI eARC or digital optical. Wed recommend the former for the best surround sound virtualization, but the latter will pass most 5.1 signals. Theres also a Bluetooth input you can switch to if youd like to wirelessly beam tunes from your phone or tablet to your Samsung soundbar.Save $270 when you purchase the Samsung HW-Q600C 3.1.2ch Soundbar today, and be sure to take a look at our lists of the best soundbar deals, best Samsung TV deals, and best Samsung deals for even more discounts on top Samsung AV products!Editors Recommendations

Do you need to buy a new monitor but youre on a tight budget? Youre in luck because you wont even have to spend $100 with this offer from Amazon. From its original price of $145, the Asus VA27EQSB monitor is down to just $97, following a 33% discount. Were not sure how much time is remaining before you miss out on the $48 in savings though, so if you think this 27-inch monitor will be perfect for your needs, dont waste another second and proceed with the transaction immediately.With its affordable price, you cant expect the Asus VA27EQSB monitor to match up to the features and performance of the best monitors in the market. However, it will be more than enough as a dependable display for work-from-home employees and students. Its 27-inch screen is within our computer monitor buying guides recommended range of 24 inches to 32 inches, and with Full HD resolution, youll enjoy sharp details and bright colors for a great look at the projects that youre working on. The display also features a 75Hz refresh rate with adaptive sync technology to reduce screen tearing and avoid choppy frame rates.If youre going to be looking at the Asus VA27EQSB monitor for several hours a day, your eyes will be protected from fatigue because of its ultra-low blue light filter and flicker-free technology. You also have the option between mounting the monitor on your wall or adjusting its height, tilt, swivel, and pivot through its included stand, to be able place the screen at the most comfortable angle for you.RelatedThere are monitor deals for premium displays with all of the high-end features, but if youre looking for an affordable but reliable screen, you cant go wrong with the Asus VA27EQSB monitor. Its available from Amazon at 33% off for a lowered price of only $97 from $145. Youre going to have to be quick with your purchase if you want to pocket the savings of $48 though, as the offer may expire at any moment. Buy the Asus VA27EQSB monitor now while its still on sale for less than $100!Editors Recommendations

When I was making my predictions for the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, I made a point to say that we wouldnt see a left-field invention like Arms. I expected that Nintendo would instead use games like Mario Kart World to show off its mouse controllers rather than making a new IP that stood in as a tech demo. That was the one prediction I got very wrong, as Nintendo revealed Drag X Drive early in the showcase. The new sports game is explicitly designed to show off what its new Joy-cons can do with their mouse capabilities and gyroscope integration.Will that be enough to do what Arms never could and create a whole new series for Nintendo? Based on my demo time with it, I dont think so. Drag X Drive, in some ways, does feel like this console generations Arms, acting as a neat tech showpiece thats bound to have a short lifespan. Thats completely fine, though, as its a great proof of concept for what the Nintendo Switch 2 mouse-cons can do that no other controller, or even a normal mouse, can. Its success wont be measured by how many people are still playing it in a year, but by how many developers it inspires in that time.Recommended VideosDrag and Drive is Nintendos version of three-on-three basketball, but the twist is that players are in wheelchairs. It would be my first test of the mouse functionality in Nintendos new Joy-cons, as the entire premise of the game is built around them. I sat down at a demo station with a table attached and threw the wrist straps on. I was ready to struggle with the new control scheme, and I did initially. I was plopped into a misleading tutorial at first that was designed to teach me the basics of movement.RelatedEach of my Joy-cons controlled a different one of my wheels. To move forward, Id have to push both Joy-cons across the table simultaneously. When I wanted to turn, Id have to gently hook one of my Joy-cons accordingly. I simply couldnt get a feel for it at first. The controllers felt responsive and all, but I just had trouble juggling two controllers at once. Turning and then moving forward in a straight line just felt difficult and it soured my hopes for the tech immediately.Thankfully, Drag X Drive isnt a racing game, so the initial tutorial that had me sailing down a winding path was kind of irrelevant. Everything made much more sense when I was dropped into a small arena built for six players. I only had to move in short spurts here in order to dash into the ball to grab it, or to smash into an opponent head-on to knock the ball out of their hand. Those more deliberate movements meant that I could focus more on positioning. The key to victory would be to push myself where I wanted to be, carefully turn, and aim myself where I want to go next. It almost felt like human air hockey in practice.I took to the controls much more in the context of an actual game. Within seconds, I was grabbing the ball, zooming in front of the net, and taking my shots. One fun detail here is that Drag X Drive uses the Joy-con gyroscopes in tandem with the mouse functionality. To shoot, I could lift my right hand off the table and do a layup motion to release the ball. I could place it back down on the table just as quickly and start moving again. It may sound small, but its an impressive feat that Nintendo has found a way to mix and match multiple ideas at the same time rather than treating them as separate control schemes.The actual round I played was legitimately fun. My two teammates and I naturally coordinated with one another, passing the ball around by pressing down L and R. I eventually learned how to effectively play defense by smashing into an opponent as they sped towards my teammate. Its more physical than your average basketball game, both in how the wheelchairs can clash and in the actual movements I need to put in. Its a legitimate workout, something that bodes well for developers looking to make the next Ring Fit Adventure. Imagine used the mice to determine how far someone is stretching their arms out in a yoga pose.NintendoIs Drag and Drive bound to be the next great esports game? Absolutely not. In reality, it feels like a Nintendo Switch Sports minigame spun out as its own thing more than the next Rocket League. Unless there are more courts with gimmicks or extra game modes that Nintendo hasnt revealed yet, I cant imagine that itll get much playtime once more games start hitting the console. Itll be a fun time while the Switch 2 is still building its library of multiplayer games, but Mario Kart World and Super Mario Party Jamborees expanded edition will fill that gap quickly.But I dont really think it has to be a long-tailed game. It almost feels more aimed at developers, showing them the kinds of games they could dream up with new control options. In that sense, it already feels more effective than Arms, which didnt make a great case for gyroscope-controlled fighting games. This, on the other hand, does invent something fresh and fun that is sure to get the wheels turning in someones head. I had a blast trying it out, and even if I dont play too much more when it launches, Ill be excited to see where that starting point leads.Drag X Drive launches this summer for Nintendo Switch 2.Editors Recommendations