Jennifer Lopez, fresh off her standing ovation at the world premiere of Kiss of the Spider Woman at the Sundance Film Festival, opened up about her career journey and the long-awaited opportunity to star in a musical. The superstar revealed to the audience that before landing the role in Bill Condon’s film, she had auditioned for several iconic movie musicals, only to miss out. She shared her experiences auditioning for major roles in Evita, Chicago, and Nine, acknowledging that although she was very close to landing the part in Nine, it simply wasn’t the right time.

Lopez, who has always dreamed of starring in a movie musical, recalled how watching West Side Story as a child inspired her to pursue a career in the arts. She started as a dancer and singer before transitioning to Hollywood, but Broadway remained her first love. Kiss of the Spider Woman marks the realization of a lifelong goal, and Lopez’s excitement was palpable as she spoke to The Hollywood Reporter.

While Evita (1996), starring Madonna, and Chicago (2002), featuring Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones, both became massive successes, Lopez had yet to have her own musical moment on the big screen. In 2009, Nine featured an all-star cast including Nicole Kidman and Penélope Cruz, but Lopez was passed over. Despite the setbacks, Lopez emphasized that she never gave up on her dream of starring in a musical.

Her career trajectory took a different direction, but her love for musicals stayed with her. Her audition for Kiss of the Spider Woman came after years of waiting for the right project to come along. Lopez shared how she received the script from Bill Condon, who not only gave her the role but also crafted it specifically for her. The role of Ingrid Luna in the film was designed to showcase her singing, acting, and dancing abilities—a rare combination for any performer.

Lopez’s role in Kiss of the Spider Woman has already been described as a career-defining moment. The film, based on the 1976 novel by Argentine author Manuel Puig, tells the story of two cellmates who bond over Hollywood musicals. Lopez, who plays the iconic movie star Ingrid Luna, performs a song titled “Never You,” written by John Kander and Fred Ebb, marking the first time the song has ever been heard on screen. The song was unearthed by Condon after a deep dive into Kander and Ebb’s archives, making the moment all the more special.

During the Sundance premiere, Lopez got emotional reflecting on how far she’s come in her career. She acknowledged the huge responsibility of singing the song in front of Kander, who was present during her recording session. The 97-year-old composer was moved to tears listening to Lopez’s performance. For Lopez, it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, one that was 25 years in the making.

Despite the challenges, Condon believes that Kiss of the Spider Woman showcases the depth of Lopez’s talent and hopes it opens doors for her to take on more musical roles in the future. “It’s a little bittersweet,” Condon said, reflecting on the years without Lopez in musical films. He believes that her performance in this role will inspire other filmmakers to explore more of her incredible talent.

This opportunity, many agree, could have come much sooner, but as Lopez has shown, sometimes timing is everything. Kiss of the Spider Woman is just the beginning, and with her unmatched dedication to her craft, the future looks incredibly bright for Lopez in the world of movie musicals.

Spotify has announced a groundbreaking new multiyear deal that will strengthen its relationship with Universal Music, bringing about a direct license agreement aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and advancing the success of artists and songwriters. This deal is set to benefit both the music industry and listeners alike, with new offerings on the horizon, such as enhanced subscription tiers, music bundles, and an expanded content catalog.

The move is part of Universal Music Group’s “Streaming 2.0” initiative, a strategy that focuses on providing greater value to listeners through exclusive content and targeted subscription services. This partnership is designed to drive greater monetization for artists, ensuring they are more fairly compensated for their work, while also enhancing the overall consumer experience.

“We envisioned this kind of partnership to further strengthen the collaboration between streaming platforms and music publishers,” said Universal Music’s CEO. “This deal advances our artist-first philosophy and paves the way for increased revenue streams for songwriters and performers. It also gives consumers access to a richer, more diverse catalog of music and multimedia content.”

Spotify, which has been committed to driving growth in the music industry for nearly two decades, views this agreement as a key step in ensuring that artists receive record payouts every year. The company’s CEO emphasized the importance of innovation to make paid subscriptions more attractive to a wider global audience.

Additionally, the deal underscores both companies’ commitment to protecting artists’ streaming royalties and addressing emerging challenges in the digital space, such as AI-generated content and fraud prevention.

With this partnership, Spotify and Universal Music are reinforcing their commitment to a fair and thriving music ecosystem that benefits both creators and consumers. Expect exciting updates and offerings that will transform how music fans engage with their favorite content in the near future.

The winter 2025 box office has a new hero to root for as Captain America: Brave New World looks set to launch with a strong $90 million-plus debut over the Presidents’ Day weekend. This projected opening places it among the biggest holiday releases, with the film being one of the most highly anticipated action thrillers of the year. The film marks a significant shift for the Captain America franchise, introducing a new lead—Anthony Mackie, taking on the mantle of the iconic superhero.

Mackie’s Sam Wilson steps into the role previously held by Chris Evans, and the movie takes a grounded, political action-thriller approach, distancing itself from the sci-fi and multiverse themes that dominated other recent Marvel films. Directed by Julius Onah, the movie promises an intense storyline focused on a global conspiracy, with Wilson grappling with a newly elected U.S. President, Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford, who unexpectedly transforms into the powerful Red Hulk.

While the film had a somewhat troubled production, including 22 days of additional photography, it has generated significant buzz for its refreshing approach. With a budget of $180 million, Brave New World offers a sharp departure from the high-tech, intergalactic plots of recent superhero films, opting instead for a more familiar, grounded narrative in the vein of Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

The film’s release is poised for a strong showing, helped by its timely opening on the Valentine’s Day/Presidents’ Day weekend. Early tracking suggests it could become one of the top launches for the holiday, following in the footsteps of major releases like Deadpool and Black Panther. As the film gears up for its February 14 release, final marketing pushes from Disney could push it even higher, depending on how audiences respond to the fresh take on the beloved superhero.

With an all-star cast that includes Mackie, Ford, and Danny Ramirez as Falcon, the film is expected to captivate both longtime Marvel fans and newcomers to the franchise. The success of Captain America: Brave New World could set the stage for more high-profile superhero films in the years to come, ushering in a new era for the MCU with Sam Wilson at the helm.

Finn Wolfhard, known for his breakout role in Stranger Things, is stepping into the director’s chair for the first time in the upcoming horror-comedy Hell of a Summer. The trailer, released recently, gives us a glimpse of the chaotic, spine-chilling summer camp experience, filled with mystery, thrills, and dark humor.

Set in a picturesque but eerie summer camp, the film revolves around a group of young camp counselors who are enjoying their summer, only to discover that a masked killer is lurking among them. While the film brings the familiar energy of Wolfhard’s previous work in horror (notably It), it also introduces a fresh, comedic twist that is sure to keep audiences engaged.

Here’s a closer look at Hell of a Summer and why it’s shaping up to be an exciting addition to the horror-comedy genre.

The Plot of Hell of a Summer

The film follows Jason Hochberg, played by Wolfhard, a 24-year-old camp counselor at Camp Pineway. At first, Jason believes that his biggest challenge is connecting with his much younger co-workers. However, things quickly spiral into a nightmare as a masked killer begins picking off counselors one by one, turning what should be a carefree summer into a desperate fight for survival.

The film’s blend of horror and comedy presents a unique dynamic, offering both intense suspense and moments of lightheartedness. The group of camp counselors must work together to figure out who the killer is, all while navigating their own interpersonal drama and the eerie atmosphere of the campgrounds.

Wolfhard’s Directorial Debut

Wolfhard’s directorial debut in Hell of a Summer comes after years of establishing himself as a well-regarded actor in both television and film. Known for his role as Mike Wheeler in Stranger Things and for his starring role in Stephen King’s It, Wolfhard has built a reputation for playing in the horror genre. With Hell of a Summer, he expands his creative portfolio, taking on the dual responsibility of co-writing and directing, alongside his longtime collaborator, Billy Bryk.

Wolfhard’s natural ability to tell compelling stories, as seen in his acting roles, is clearly translated into his directorial style. In Hell of a Summer, he seamlessly merges horror and humor, creating a film that promises to keep audiences both on the edge of their seats and in fits of laughter.

A Familiar Yet Fresh Take on the Horror-Comedy Genre

While Hell of a Summer definitely leans into classic slasher tropes—summer camp, masked killers, and a group of unsuspecting counselors—it distinguishes itself by infusing humor and wit into the narrative. The tension between the horror elements and the comedy results in an intriguing contrast, keeping the audience entertained throughout the film.

The film’s tone is light-hearted at moments, showcasing the camp counselors’ quirky personalities and the dynamic between them, yet shifts to darker, more thrilling scenes as the killer makes his move. This balance of comedy and horror isn’t easy to achieve, but Wolfhard and Bryk manage to do so, offering a story that’s both scary and fun at the same time.

What to Expect from the Cast

In addition to Finn Wolfhard, Hell of a Summer features a talented ensemble cast, including Fred Hechinger, Pardis Saremi, Abby Quinn, and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai. The actors bring the film’s characters to life, with Hechinger portraying one of the key counselors and Saremi, Quinn, and Woon-A-Tai rounding out the group. Each character adds their own flavor to the camp dynamic, and as the body count rises, the interplay between them will keep the audience engaged.

The cast’s chemistry is pivotal in maintaining the film’s light-hearted tone amidst the escalating tension. Their performances ensure that the movie doesn’t take itself too seriously, even as the stakes get higher.

Is Hell of a Summer Scary?

While the premise of Hell of a Summer has all the makings of a traditional horror film, early reviews suggest that it may not land as strongly on the scare factor. The Hollywood Reporter mentions that while the film offers a satisfying narrative, the mystery surrounding the killer doesn’t maintain its suspense for long, and the horror elements are not as chilling as one might expect.

However, despite the lack of a truly terrifying atmosphere, the film remains engaging, thanks to its quirky sense of humor and memorable characters. The twist in the story, while daring, shifts the narrative into a fun third act, ensuring that the film doesn’t lose its momentum.

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A Fun, Thriller-Packed Ride

Ultimately, Hell of a Summer is more than just a typical slasher film. It’s an inventive blend of humor, horror, and suspense, designed to both entertain and thrill audiences. The unique combination of Wolfhard’s direction and the talented cast ensures that it will stand out in the crowded genre of horror-comedies.

With a release date set for April 18, 2025, Hell of a Summer promises to be a fun, wild ride for those looking to experience a unique twist on the traditional horror formula. Whether you’re a fan of Wolfhard’s previous work or someone looking for a fresh take on the slasher genre, this film has something for everyone—just be prepared for plenty of scares, laughs, and unexpected twists along the way.

Fans across the globe are flocking to bookshops for Onyx Storm, the highly anticipated third installment in Rebecca Yarros’s best-selling Empyrean series. With a captivating blend of dragons, magic, warfare, and romance, the novel has cemented its place as one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

A Phenomenal Release

Onyx Storm has already made waves, with its publisher, Little Brown, declaring it the company’s biggest pre-ordered title since the release of the Harry Potter play script in 2016. Special events were held worldwide to celebrate its launch, with bookstores opening late or early to accommodate eager readers. UK chain Waterstones reported record-breaking first-day sales, with almost 60 branches hosting special midnight openings.

In the United States, fans stayed up until the early hours of the morning to snag exclusive editions of the book. However, the surge in demand caused technical difficulties for some online retailers, leaving fans frustrated yet still buzzing with excitement.

A Series That Enchants Millions

Rebecca Yarros has emerged as a leading voice in the booming “romantic” genre. The first two books in the series, Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, continue to dominate bestseller lists, claiming the top two spots in the New York Times fiction rankings and securing places in the Sunday Times paperback fiction chart. Globally, they are among the most-read books on Goodreads over the past year.

The series introduces readers to Violet Sorrengail, a 20-year-old protagonist training to become an elite dragon rider in the perilous world of Navarre. Violet’s unique struggles, including a genetic condition that makes her physically fragile, resonate deeply with readers. Her resourcefulness and inner strength shine as she navigates challenges both personal and magical, including her complex relationship with Xaden Riorson, a fellow dragon rider.

Fan Devotion Like No Other

The midnight release of Onyx Storm saw fans gathering in costumes, participating in quizzes, and receiving themed goody bags. Mollie Short, a 23-year-old fan, attended the launch event at Waterstones in London and described the experience as magical: “Being surrounded by people who understand this world was incredible. The books offer an escape, blending magic and fantasy with real emotional depth. I can’t wait to dive into the new installment.”

Unraveling the Mystery of Onyx Storm

Onyx Storm continues to expand the intricate world of Navarre, delving deeper into its lore and characters. Violet discovers a second signet, the psychic ability of dream-walking, which opens new avenues in the series’ rich magical landscape. Meanwhile, her partner, Xaden, faces moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices as he channels forbidden magic to save Violet. This act transforms him into a venin, a dark force that threatens his humanity and their relationship.

The book’s ending left readers stunned as Violet uncovers a mystery involving a wedding ring, memory loss, and a haunting note from Xaden. The shocking conclusion ensures fans will be counting the days until the fourth installment is released.

Building a Legacy

Yarros has masterfully crafted a series that balances heart-pounding action with emotionally resonant storytelling. Her exploration of resilience, love, and the grey areas of morality has struck a chord with readers worldwide. The inclusion of relatable struggles, such as Violet’s disability, adds depth and representation to the genre, making the series not just fantastical but deeply human.

What’s Next for the Empyrean Series?

Rebecca Yarros has confirmed that the Empyrean series will span five books. With three already released, fans are eager to see how Violet’s story unfolds. The series has also gained attention for its “medium spice” romantic scenes, which complement rather than overshadow the plot, making it a favourite among mature readers.

A Message of Gratitude

In an Instagram message to her fans, Yarros expressed heartfelt appreciation for their support: “It’s in your hands now. Thank you for sharing this incredible experience with me. Enjoy the ride.” Fans responded with enthusiasm, many unable to put the book down and even considering taking days off work to read it.

As the Empyrean series continues to soar, Onyx Storm reaffirms Rebecca Yarros’s place as a trailblazer in modern fantasy. With its gripping narrative, complex characters, and evocative themes, the book is a testament to the power of storytelling to transport and inspire.

Dame Joan Plowright, the revered British actress who charmed audiences across stage and screen for more than six decades, has passed away at the age of 95. Her death, announced by her family on January 16, 2025, marks the end of an era for one of the most influential figures in British theatre and film. A towering figure in the entertainment world, Dame Joan’s career spanned an extraordinary six decades, and she is remembered not only for her acting but for her indomitable spirit and enduring legacy.

A Storied Career in Theatre and Film

Born in Scunthorpe, England, Dame Joan began her career in the 1950s, quickly rising to prominence as a leading lady in London’s West End. She initially appeared on the stage in a number of prominent plays, but it was in 1957, when she starred opposite Sir Laurence Olivier in The Entertainer at the Royal Court Theatre, that her career truly took off. At the time, Olivier was still married to the famous actress Vivien Leigh, and Plowright was married to her first husband, Roger Gage. However, the professional collaboration soon blossomed into a personal relationship, leading to their marriage in 1961.

The pairing of Plowright and Olivier, both on and off-screen, was nothing short of legendary. Their acting partnership was so impactful that it earned them both BAFTA nominations for the 1960 film version of The Entertainer. Their marriage and professional collaboration also led Plowright to become a central figure at the National Theatre, which Olivier founded, cementing her place in the annals of British theatrical history.

Plowright’s remarkable acting range extended from the stage to the silver screen. In addition to her work in The Entertainer, she was known for her role in A Taste of Honey on Broadway, which earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress. She also graced the stage in George Bernard Shaw’s Saint Joan, portraying the iconic figure of Joan of Arc, a role that earned her the title of Best Actress at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards in 1963.

Her accolades continued throughout her career, with a particularly notable triumph in the 1970s. She won the Society of West End Theatre Award (later renamed the Olivier Awards after her husband) in 1978 for her performance in Filumena. In the same year, she received another BAFTA nomination for her role in the film Equus alongside Richard Burton.

Oscar and Golden Globe Recognition

One of Dame Joan’s most beloved roles came in the 1991 film Enchanted April, where she portrayed Mrs. Fisher, an elegant yet cantankerous character. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1993, further solidifying her standing as a luminary in the entertainment industry.

A Legacy of Enduring Strength

Beyond her stellar acting career, Dame Joan was known for her remarkable resilience and dedication to her craft. In her later years, after losing her eyesight and being registered blind, she retired from acting but continued to cherish her family, friends, and the memories of a career well lived. Her family fondly described her as a woman who faced many challenges with what they referred to as “Plowright grit” — a determination to make the best of any situation.

In the last decade of her life, Dame Joan lived in Sussex, where she was frequently visited by friends and family. Her later years were filled with laughter, cherished moments, and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones.

A Dame Among Dames

Dame Joan Plowright was part of a remarkable generation of actresses who defined British theatre in the 20th century. Alongside fellow acting legends like Dame Judi Dench, Dame Maggie Smith, and Dame Eileen Atkins, she was celebrated for her incredible range and her deep understanding of the human condition. In 1999, she starred in the film Tea with Mussolini, alongside Dench and Smith, further solidifying her place among Britain’s theatrical elite.

Perhaps one of the most endearing moments of Dame Joan’s later years came in the 2018 BBC documentary Nothing Like A Dame. In this film, she and her fellow dames shared stories and memories, offering a delightful glimpse into their friendship and professional camaraderie. One memorable exchange from the documentary involved Dame Maggie, who humorously remarked that she was always the first to be offered acting roles—a joke to which Dame Joan added her own anecdote. It was a poignant reminder of the warm, witty spirit that defined her character.

Theatrical Tributes and Farewell

In the wake of Dame Joan’s passing, the British theatre community has come together to honour her life and legacy. West End theatres will dim their lights for two minutes as a tribute to her, and the UK Theatre and the Society of London Theatre have expressed their heartfelt condolences to her family. Hannah Essex, co-chief executive of the Society of London Theatre, praised Dame Joan as an “iconic and deeply respected figure” whose contributions to the world of theatre left an indelible mark on the industry.

Dame Joan Plowright’s death is a loss not only to the world of theatre and film but to all who had the privilege of witnessing her brilliance, resilience, and humanity. Her legacy lives on in the many performances, roles, and moments of grace she left behind.

Final Thoughts

Dame Joan Plowright’s extraordinary career is a testament to the power of dedication, talent, and perseverance. She carved out a space for herself in the pantheon of British theatre’s greatest actors, and her contributions to both stage and screen continue to inspire. Through her remarkable body of work, Dame Joan has left an indelible imprint on the cultural landscape, one that will not soon be forgotten.

In the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, where the pulse of the city is felt in every corner, the hilarious new film One of Them Days invites viewers into the chaotic lives of two best friends racing against the clock to avoid eviction. Directed by Lawrence Lamont, the film takes audiences on a ride through an eventful day filled with laughter, heart, and clever social commentary.

The plot revolves around Dreux (Keke Palmer), a hardworking waitress, and her best friend Alyssa (SZA), an aspiring artist with a lot of ambition but questionable choices in her romantic life. When their landlord demands the rent they don’t have, the duo embarks on a wild journey to get the $1,500 in just eight hours. Along the way, they face failed schemes, betrayal, and even a payday loan experience, all while navigating the ups and downs of their deep friendship.

What stands out most in One of Them Days is the incredible chemistry between Palmer and SZA. Palmer, with her impeccable comedic timing, brings Dreux to life, making her both relatable and charming. SZA, known for her emotional depth as a musician, shines in her role as Alyssa, effortlessly blending free-spiritedness with a subtle vulnerability. Their performances anchor the film, making it easy to connect with their ups and downs.

The film’s comedic edge is often paired with poignant moments that highlight the characters’ struggles to make ends meet in a world dominated by capitalism. In addition to the fast-paced humor, the film offers a keen social analysis, especially regarding gentrification and the financial pressures of working-class life. Scenes involving payday loans and encounters with an entitled new tenant bring a satirical lens to everyday hardships.

Throughout their madcap adventure, Dreux and Alyssa explore the importance of friendship, dreams, and self-discovery. While the film occasionally stumbles in delivering emotional depth, the light-hearted moments and clever satire carry it forward, making it an enjoyable watch.

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Directed by Lamont, One of Them Days expertly balances its themes with laughs, earning its place as a feel-good comedy with something to say. Fans of high-energy, socially-conscious humor will find themselves drawn into this uniquely spirited film.

Ariana Grande recently addressed comments she made about cosmetic injectables during the Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 3. In a clip shared by Entertainment Tonight on TikTok, the 31-year-old actress clarified that she has been “four years clean” from Botox and fillers after deciding to stop using them. Her comments came after she jokingly referred to herself as a “slightly withering” and “drooping star” during her Rising Star Award acceptance speech.

Transparency with Fans and Future Cosmetic Changes
Despite her light-hearted quip, Grande emphasised that if she ever decides to undergo any cosmetic procedures in the future, she would be completely transparent with her fans. As the founder of r.e.m. beauty, a makeup brand she launched in November 2021, she stated, “I really want to be transparent as a beauty founder.” For now, she is happy with her natural look and embraces the fine lines she has gained.

Embracing Aging and Natural Beauty
Grande had previously opened up about her decision to stop Botox and fillers in a Vogue Beauty Secrets episode from September 2023. She explained that she felt like she was “hiding” behind the treatments and now wants to embrace her “well-earned” lines as she gets older. She shared, “I hope my smile lines get deeper and deeper. And I laugh more and more,” emphasising her belief that aging can be a beautiful process.

Confronting Hollywood’s Beauty Standards
In November 2023, Grande also spoke about the pressures of Hollywood’s beauty standards and the toll it has taken on her since she was a teenager. In a heartfelt interview with French content creator Crazy Sally, she reflected on the intense scrutiny she has faced in the public eye, saying, “I’ve been doing this in front of the public and been a specimen in a Petri dish really since I was 16 or 17. I have heard it all.”

However, Grande now knows how to block out the negativity. She said, “I just don’t invite it in anymore. I have work to do, I have a life to live, and I have friends to love on. I have so much love. It’s not invited, so I don’t leave space for it anymore.”

By focusing on her personal growth and the love in her life, Grande continues to embrace her true self, no longer letting societal expectations dictate how she feels about her appearance.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco attended the 2025 Golden Globes, marking their first public appearance as an engaged couple since announcing their engagement in December. While they chose not to walk the red carpet together, Benny was a constant presence by Selena’s side during the star-studded evening.

The couple’s moment in the spotlight didn’t escape the Golden Globes’ signature humour. Host Nikki Glaser playfully roasted the pair, quipping, “Selena Gomez—nominated for Emilia Perez and Only Murders in the Building—is here tonight with her new fiancé, Benny Blanco. And Benny Blanco is here because of the genie that granted that wish. Man, lucky guy.” Selena and Benny laughed off the joke, with Benny affectionately kissing Selena on the shoulder as she jokingly pretended to be the lucky one.

Selena was nominated in two categories at the ceremony: Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture for Emilia Perez and Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series—Musical or Comedy—for Only Murders in the Building.

The roast quickly went viral, with fans sharing their reactions on social media. Tweets ranged from “Selena Gomez’s fiancé, Benny Blanco, getting roasted at this year’s #GoldenGlobes was the best part of the show” to “Selena and Benny knew Nikki was gonna to roast them, and they took it like champs.”

ICYDK, Selena announced her engagement last month through a series of heartwarming photos. One showcased a close-up of her stunning diamond ring, another featured her admiring it, and the last two captured sweet moments with Benny, including him kissing her cheek. Sharing the pictures, Selena wrote, “Forever begins now,” while Benny cheekily commented, “Hey wait… that’s my wife.”

The couple’s Golden Globes debut and viral moments have left fans even more excited about their future together.