The Super Mario Bros. Movie has officially broken the $1 billion mark at the box office. At the time of writing, the joint project between Nintendo and Illumination Studios has grossed $1.045 billion worldwide. It is now the eighth-highest-grossing Universal release of all time. Furthemore, it is just $7 million shy of becoming Universal’s second-ever film to gross $500 million at the box office.
The film is also still being received incredibly well. While it still holds a 59% critics rating, it also has a 96% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film has proven to be a smash-hit, both with fans of the games and general audiences alike. But where does the genre go from here?
What’s Next For Video Game Adaptations?
‘THE SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE’ has passed $1 billion worldwide.
2023 has been a year of both critical and financial success for the video game adaptation genre. On the financial side, you have The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the first video game adaptation to make $1 billion at the box office. But 2023 has also seen critical successes. The primary example of this is HBO’s The Last Of Us. Also upcoming is the much-anticipated third season of The Witcher. Elsewhere, Season 2 of Halo is reportedly in production, despite middling reviews for the first. In short, video game adaptations are big business right now.
So now the genre stands at a crossroads. On the one hand, this year’s successes have shown that there is a market for well-received, financially successful video game adaptation. But to find that success, you need to invest the time, effort, and money to create an adaptation that the engrained fanbase you are inheriting will enjoy. Because at the end of the day, while mass appeal is all well and good, the driving force behind the success of your video game project is getting the long-standing fans on board. For example, the Jason Mamoa-led Minecraft has been relentlessly mocked on social media after it was announced. There are dozens of reported video game adaptations in the works. However, the current “golden age” of the genre depends on studios learning the right lessons from the successes of Mario and The Last Of Us.
Frank Herbert’s sweeping space opera series, Dune, finally found a way to enthrall mass-appeal audiences in 2021. The grandiose and visually-stunning film, anchored by Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, was met with rave reviews and major box office success. The film holds an 83% critics rating and a 90% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It also made over double its staggering $165 million budget.
However, that was just the beginning of the saga. Director Denis Villeneuve wanted to include as much of the source material as possible. Thus, he split the first book into two parts to represent the two very distinct halves of the novel. Dune as a book series contains five works by Herbert.
“Dune: Part Two” Promises War And Worm-Riding
If Dune was a political thriller, then Dune: Part 2 is set to be a war epic. The last film left off with our protagonist, Paul, having escaped the clutches of those who would wish him harm. He escapes to the Fremens, an indigenous people of the sand moon of Arrakis. That’s where the trailer picks up, with Paul telling Chani (Zendaya) about swimming. Paul spent a lot of the first film having visions of Chani. There is be some serious romance between the two of them. Towards the end of the trailer, we see the two lean in for a kiss.
But the scope quickly pulls out from Paul’s adventures. The various factions on and around Arrakis are preparing for war. After all, everyone wants the spice (the narcotic macguffin that can only be found on Arrakis). We are also given plenty of footage of Paul’s mysterious mother, Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson). The trailer also gives us our first look at new additions to the cast Florence Pugh and Austin Butler. However, the thing that the entire trailer is building is Paul riding a motherfucking sandworm. Arrakis is home to giant sandworms and in true fantasy novel fashion, there’s a prophecy about the person who is able to ride the sandworm. And wouldn’t you know it, Paul squares off with a sandworm and goes shooting along the sands. Dune: Part Two is scheduled for release on November 3.
Jack Donaghy once said, “Never go with a hippie to a second location.” But you do go with Janelle Monáe to a second location, if you’re lucky enough to be invited.
Following the Met Gala, the musician and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery star hosted an after-party at the Standard Hotel’s the Boom Boom Room; the guest list included Billie Eilish, Jenna Ortega, and Lil Nas X. But no one, with the exception of Monáe herself, had more fun than Florence Pugh.
Here’s how Vogue described the scene that led to Pugh looking delighted while Monáe performed a possibly unreleased song on a bartop:
Throughout the evening, in a sort of Studio 54-inspired variety show, a constant flow of entertainment in varied forms kept the party moving, with cones of french fries and hamburgers making the rounds, a corner banquette gossip session between Eilish and Lizzo, and Coco Rocha performing an impromptu dance number in a shimmering gold column dress and sky-high tousled hair, all before reaching a fever pitch once Janelle Monae, wearing a pair of equally sky-high Thom Browne wedge heels and a look that continued to shed until she was in a black-bikini-esque getup took to the bartop to delight guests with a few of her hits and a heaping dose of inspiration
“This is once in a lifetime,” Monáe said at the party. “You could be in bed, but y’all are out, because tonight, this year, we are in the age of pleasure. We are doing the stuff that makes us feel good unapologetically.” The only way to top this level of enjoyment is for Pugh and Monáe to reunite in Paddington 3.
The Writer’s Guild of America, the primary union for writers working at major studios across America, authorized strike action on May 2. The first WGA writer’s strike since 2008, writers working at numerous studios walked out after studio management failed to meet their demands for a better contract before the present contract expired. Studios affected range from Netflix to Warner Bros. to Disney to the East Coast TV behemoths like NBC.
The WGA writers had asked for studio concessions on a variety of issues. These include the base pay of writers, the way that residual checks work (especially in regard to streaming services), and the regulation of AI use in media production. The studio executives were unwilling to meet the union’s demands on almost every issue, necessitating a work stoppage and strike.
“SNL” Among The Shows Affected By WGA Strike
SNL has shut down and Pete Davidson’s hosting episode is officially off amid the writers strike. pic.twitter.com/xAJMYnLERQ
The response to the WGA strike has differed from studio to studio, and network to network. For example, HBO will not cease production of House Of The Dragon Season 2, as all scripts have been completed. Meanwhile, many late-night talk shows will suspend their current runs in the wake of the strike action. Hosts such as Jon Oliver and Seth Myers have actively voiced their support for the strike. It’s almost like writers deserve basic and fair compensation for making millions of dollars for entertainment juggernauts.
Another causality of the strike is Saturday Night Live. After a brief break last weekend, SNL was supposed to return to air on May 6. This would have been the highly-anticipated hosting debut of former castmate Pete Davidson. Not only were fans looking forward to Davidson’s return, but the episode had also gotten press coverage about its content, or lack of, regarding Kim Kardashian. However, with strike action authorized and the show’s writers on the picket line, SNL has been suspended indefinitely. The timeslot will be filled by SNL re-runs instead. Davidson famously left social media several years ago, so it is unclear what his stance on the strikes is. Furthermore, it is unknown if Davidson will get a chance to host when the strike eventually resolves.
Basketball is truly an enthralling sport, captivating the interest of players, fans, and filmmakers alike. Being one of the most popular sports of the modern era, basketball has inspired awe-inspiring stories. The tales are firmly rooted in culture and tradition. Basketball’s most significant moments, from high-stakes competition to underdog narratives, can be found on the court and enshrined on the silver screen. Hollywood capitalizes on these remarkable tales of hard work, passion, and determination to create blockbuster productions. From award-winning classics to heartwarming dramas, basketball-centered films always promises a good story that will draw audiences in and make them stay. Here are (arguably) the best basketball movies of all time.
7. Sunset Park (1996)
Gather around for the beloved chant of Sunset Park. Springing from the minds and voices of teenagers in the late 1990s, this mantra has become a nostalgic reminder of times gone by. Featuring Rhea Perlman, Fredro Starr, and future Oscar-nominee Terrance Howard, this film offers an insightful look into the on-court dynamics of a high school basketball team composed of misfits. Upon the arrival of new coach Phyllis Saroka, the players initially met her presence with skepticism. However, they eventually understood that she was just as much their parent as their coach. With a combination of humor and heartwarming moments, Sunset Park offers a thought-provoking examination of the strong bond between a coach and a student.
6. Space Jam (1996)
Harking back to the ‘90s, many a childhood was graced by the beloved classic film Space Jam. Frothy with fun and frivolity, the show catapulted basketball icon Michael Jordan into a world of cartoon legends and pitted them against the formidable Monstars. The game reached a crescendo with the unforgettable opening track by Quad City DJs, providing viewers with an exhilarating and nostalgic experience. Few films can rival this joyous romp through space and time, reminding us that it’s often more important to have a good time than to adhere to facts.
5. The Way Back (2020)
Starring Ben Affleck, The Way Back is a poignant tale of grief, hope, and resilience. Jack’s descent into despair is arrested by an offer to coach basketball at his former school, supported by his assistant coach Dan (Al Madrigal) and wife Angela (Janina Gavankar). Yet Jack’s journey back from the brink isn’t without challenges, culminating in a powerful confrontation of anguish and redemption. Affleck delivers a stellar performance that shows how powerful small moments of courage can be in the best basketball movies.
4. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
Starring Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes, White Men Can’t Jump is a hilariously entertaining movie that follows an unlikely duo. While comedy takes center stage, Harrelson and Snipes deliver remarkable displays of basketball prowess that grace the audience. His partner in crime, Sidney Deane (Snipes), sees beyond this misconception and encourages the pair to use their skills for money. As their friendship builds, so does their success in pick-up games throughout the metropolis. The film dives into the bond between two men of different backgrounds, connected by their love of basketball and financial struggles. While comedy takes center stage, the audience is also graced with remarkable displays of basketball prowess.
3. Hoop Dreams (1994)
Two teenagers from Chicago’s south side had a dream: to make it big in basketball no matter what. Caught between two worlds of luxury and necessity, William Gates attended a wealthy private school while Arthur Agee was obliged to enroll in the local public one. Struggling against the odds, they faced serious obstacles, be it poor grades, drug-addicted parents, or tragic losses on their way to success. This film reveals this harsh reality and shows the significance of basketball in these inner-city lives.
2. He Got Game (1996)
Jesse Shuttlesworth’s joy of basketball began while watching his father, Jake, play. However, when Jesse became a highly sought-after high school prospect, Jake had an idea. It would earn him an early release from prison if he could convince Jesse to attend the governor’s alma mater. The tension between the two was palpable on-screen. In the end, Denzel Washington’s impressive skills were showcased through a real-time game of one-on-one, which determined their reconciliation. Overall, He Got Game takes us on an emotionally-driven journey between two people bound by love and hardship.
1. Hoosiers (1986)
Crafted with cinematic brilliance, Hoosiers deserves its place amongst the best basketball movies ever. Set in Indiana, home to one of basketball’s birthplaces, this celebrated tale focuses on a humble small town and its attempt to defy expectations and claim a state title. Hackman’s remarkable portrayal of a coach adeptly elucidated the team’s tribulations. Hoosiers paint an indelible portrait of how our toughest battles often occur away from the playing field.
Rod Wave is one artist that took the whole industry by storm through stories of his pain. The Florida singer used his voice to let people into his world of heartbreaks, failed relationships, and simply fighting one’s demons. Although many enjoy Rod Wave’s emotional ballads, some feel differently. Some fans feel Rod puts too much focus into making “emotional” music. Since the release of his album Beautiful Mind, Rod Wave has vowed that it would be his “last sad ass project.”
In response to those people that feel that way, he took to Instagram live to share his thoughts. Moreover, he addressed the folks that claim his music is “too emotional” and classified them as people who run from their emotions. As Rod Wave continued reading his fans, he also mentioned that the ones that are hating on his music are the same ones turning up in the club hiding their emotions. Not only that, others gave even more negative reinforcement to the notion when Rod released his new single, “Fight The Feeling.”
Since then, Rod Wave has been pretty quiet as of late. However, he did take to Twitter to tweet his thoughts. He tweeted that he has reached his peak artistically which left fans with mixed reactions. While some users took this chance to crack jokes about Rod Wave’s weight (not cool), there were some that gave sentiments of encouragement. One person responded saying, “Theres never a peak to ur potential.” Although it may seem that the Beautiful Mind artist believes he’s reached his artistic peak, fans don’t seem to think so.
Furthermore, Rod Wave isn’t the first artist to feel like they have reached their artistic peak. Similarly, before putting out an album that has aged like the finest of wines, The Life Of Pablo, Ye was going through a complete writer’s block. Despite the writer’s block he got through and created one of his best albums out of his discography. With an artist like Rod with so much talent, the sky is truly the limit. What do you think? Has Rod Wave reached his peak? Let us know in the comments below!
Of all the names you’d expect to see in a bidding war over a National Hockey League team, Snoop Dogg and Ryan Reynolds might not be the unlikeliest, but the news is sure to raise at least a few eyebrows. The Athletic reports Snoop has joined an ownership group bidding on the Ottawa Senators opposite Ryan Reynolds’ group, which is reportedly bidding $1 billion for the club and supposedly includes its own musician, The Weeknd. Snoop’s proposed partner in the investment, an indie film producer named Neko Sparks, wants to be the NHL’s first Black owner.
With Snoop as his partner, that goal could be within reach; Snoop’s sweeteners for their deal include his services as an analyst — Chance The Rapper’s recurring SNL character Lazlo Holmes springs to mind here — as well as a rinkside fixture throughout the 2023-2024 season. Certainly, the opportunity to see Snoop in person could boost attendance; likewise, his hilarious sideline commentary at previous hockey games has spawned numerous memes, which could help viewership of televised games.
On Instagram, Snoop reiterated his interest, writing, “Amazing what Neko Sparks is trying to do in Ottawa & I’m looking forward to being a part of that ownership team. I wanna bring hockey to our community.” He already sponsors youth football in his hometown and loves taking part in basketball, boxing, wrestling, and even video gaming events, so if anyone has both the clout and the experience to get Black people watching hockey en masse (again, see Lazlo Holmes), it’s Snoop.
Selena Gomez seems to have done something to anger her former friend and kidney donor, Francia Raisa. In a video taken by TMZ, the How I Met Your Father actress is out and about in Studio City with her dog. The actress was asked about her relationship with Selena, but she repeatedly and obviously changed the subject. Raisa seems to indirectly criticize her former friend and organ recipient by avoiding answering questions about whether they are still friends. Raisa even refused to address whether she would follow Selena back on social media. The TMZ cameraman also asked if she would consider donating an organ again. However, she seems to be more interested in guiding others through the process.
For those unfamiliar with the situation, Selena Gomez and Francia Raisa have been good friends since childhood. They both worked as young actors. In 2017, Francia donated her kidney to Selena after her own had failed due to lupus. Following the successful surgery, the two remained close, with Selena expressing gratitude to Francia for saving her life on numerous occasions. However, their relationship seemed to take a turn in November when Selena told an interviewer that Taylor Swiftwas the only person she was close to in Hollywood. After Selena’s remark went viral, Francia responded with “interesting” and unfollowed Selena on social media.
Selena Gomez’s alleged fight with her friend Francia Raisa is not the only spat she has been in recently. She was recently embroiled in some seemingly unwilling social media drama with Hailey Bieber. Fans read into some videos posted by both parties and assumed they were shading one another. Selena eventually addressed the rumors of a feud between her and Hailey, which had been circulating for weeks.
The situation became so extreme that Selena’s fans even sent death threats to Hailey. As a result, Selena posted a message on Instagram, denouncing the actions of those sending the threats and calling for people to be more thoughtful. Her message effectively put an end to any speculation of animosity between the two women, and Hailey later expressed her gratitude to Selena for her defense. The model shared her appreciation on Instagram, indicating that she was thankful for Gomez’s actions. What do you think about Selena’s situation with Raisa? Let us know in the comments!
Zendaya and Tom Holland have been the young Hollywood it-couple for a minute now. It looks like their relationship is still going strong. In the video, the two appear to be having a great time. Zendaya rocks a halter top and glasses while Holland looks dressed down in a green hoodie. In an Instagram story the actress posted about the event, she spoke about how much fun she was having. “When I tell you we barely had a voice by the end of this,” Zendaya wrote over the video.”Childhood dream came true, going to an [Usher] concert.”
It’s an endearing moment for the two. They are one of the few Hollywood couples that seem extremely unproblematic. If you’re interested in drama, the pair’s relationship might even seem boring to you. However, Zendaya makes it clear just how loved and supported she feels by Holland. The actress recently attended a “For Your Consideration” event for her hit HBO show, Euphoria, where she spoke about the relationship. “I think it’s great to have that support and love around you, because you need that,” she said.
Zendaya and Tom Holland were rumored to have been in a relationship for quite some time before it was confirmed. The pair first met on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2016. Holland plays the titular character and Zendaya plays “MJ.” As any Spider-Man fan knows, the two eventually become love interests. They have since co-starred in two moreSpider-Man films. Because of their on- and off-screen chemistry, fans speculated wildly about a potential romantic relationship between the two.
There had been a number of instances that indicated they were more than just friends at the time. Despite that, they took their time publicly acknowledging their relationship. However, there came a time when it could no longer be denied. The two were spotted kissing in a car in 2021. They were also seen on vacation together in Santa Barbara. Additionally, they were spotted attending each other’s family celebrations. Holland went to Zendaya’s mother’s birthday party, and Zendaya attended the wedding of Holland’s brother. Of course, the two have since confirmed their relationship. The two seem to be one of Hollywood’s healthiest pairings. What do you think of Zendaya’s relationship with Tom Holland? Let us know in the comments.
Majors is expected to appear in court on May 9 for his first hearing related to the charges. Earlier this week, Majors’ accuser was granted a full temporary order of protection. Colloquially known as a restraining order, a temporary order of protection prevents an alleged abuser from contacting their alleged victim. Majors did not object to the order, with his lawyer saying “This is standard in cases such as this, and we consented because Mr. Majors wants nothing to do with the woman who assaulted him.” The actor’s defense since his arrest is that he was the victim in the reported altercation.
Majors Retains Medical Expert
Jonathan Majors Says Certified Expert Prove Assault “Victim” Is Lying https://t.co/ZBtj57smLV
However, that was not all that Majors’ attorney, Priya Chaudry, had to say about the proceedings. According to Chaudry, they have retained a medical expert who is willing to testify against Majors’ accuser. “We recently provided a forensic medical opinion from a Board Certified Emergency Medicine Doctor and Trauma Specialist who has examined the photos and videos of the woman and concludes, without hesitation, that the woman did not have any injuries at the nightclub and the injuries she later sustained did not come from Mr. Majors”.
Furthermore, Chaudry called out the Manhattan DA’s office in light of this claim. “In fact, the forensic medical expert’s opinion shows that the woman is lying. It is disturbing that even when presented with this incontrovertible evidence, the District Attorney continues this false case.” Chaudry did not elaborate further on what this evidence entailed. However, that will likely be made apparent in the upcoming hearings. Majors has been dropped from a number of projects since the allegations were made public. However, he remains part of the MCU at the time of writing and will appear in Season 2 of Loki later this year. HotNewHipHop will have all the updates in the case as they occur.
(@nojumper)