TV & entertainment

📽 Cinema breathes anew with F1. Following a somewhat disappointing Hollywood season, director Joseph Kosinski — the director behind Top Gun: Maverick and Oblivion — delivers a film that has revitalized theaters. Since its debut last week, F1 has dominated the box office in the US and most countries worldwide, receiving widespread acclaim from both audiences and critics alike. The film is produced by Apple Studios, Formula 1 icon and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, and Brad Pitt’s Plan B Entertainment. Gearing up. F1 follows Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), a semi-retired Formula 1 driver in his 50s, whose passion towards the sport waned after a tragic accident while competing in an F1 race in the ‘90s. Hayes faded from the spotlight and spent his years settling for regular races. A second chance. When Hayes’ old friend, Ruben (Javier Bardem), reaches out to offer him a spot on his F1 team, our protagonist takes him up on it. Ruben’s team hasn’t secured a single victory in three years, and if the team doesn’t secure one in one of the 9 upcoming races, it’s game over. To help his friend and his team avoid being torn apart by the board of directors, Sonny joins promising young driver Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris) on a mission to save the day. Comedy, drama, romance, and thrills — F1 has it all. The two-and-a-half-hour-long film leaves no room for boredom. The characters are all well-written, well-rounded, and incredibly human — with their strengths and weaknesses getting equal time to shine. The cast did a stellar job bringing their characters to life, allowing audiences to mourn their defeats and cheer for their victories. The presence of many real-life F1 celebrities in pivotal scenes also added to the thrill of it all. The film’s crowning glory? Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack, which brought even more suspense to the film. It’s a film for everyone. One of the film’s greatest strengths is how it tackles a deeply personal narrative in a way that attracts both Formula 1 fans and first-timers alike. Whether or not you’re a die-hard sports fan, you’ll get your money’s worth. The bigger, the better. With stunning cinematography and real scenes that eschew any special effects, Kosinski makes it clear that this is a film meant to be watched on the biggest screen possible with the best possible sound system. Want the full experience? Watch it in IMAX. WHERE TO WATCH- F1 is currently screening at Vox Cinemas in City Center Almaza, Mall of Egypt, and Mall of Alexandria. You can also catch the film at CFCM and District 5’s Scene Cinemas, City Stars Cinema, Cima Arkan, Point 90 Cinema, and Zawya. You can find the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:30).

📽 Rage is the only constant in this ever-changing world. Oscar-winning British director Danny Boyle takes us back to post-apocalyptic Britain with 28 Years Later — the third installment in the horror franchise that kicked off in 2002 with 28 Days Later, and returned later in 2007 with 28 Weeks Later. How has the world fared since then? Well, it’s not peaches and roses; we’ll tell you that. First things first, what happened 28 years ago? When two English scientists attempted to find a cure for anger control issues after crime rates skyrocketed across the UK, they fumbled the ball…big time. Apes carrying the “rage” virus spread it to humans like wildfire, and soon enough, the entire population of the country began displaying symptoms reminiscent of the Ebola virus, with 10 times the rage and the added side-effect of essentially being zombies. The film takes place on Holy Island off the UK coast years after the outbreak. We meet our cast of survivors, including the young Spike (Alfie Williams), his father Jamie (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), and his ill mother Isla (Jodie Comer). When the time comes for Spike to join his father on a zombie hunt on the most dangerous part of the island, they cross paths with quite the suspicious individual, Dr. Ian Kelson (Ralph Fiennes). Spike sets his suspicions aside in hopes that Kelson might be able to cure his mother. Our young protagonist then decides to bring her to Kelson in secret, but the trip doesn’t go as planned. When compared to its predecessors, differences in the nature of the story and the plot become apparent. Screenwriter Alex Garland chose to have the film focus more heavily on character development rather than shock value. Unlike the first two films, the infected have become more in control of their movements over the years. Humans have also gotten smarter when it comes to navigating the ever-looming threat. The entire cast delivered stellar performances — particularly Fiennes.Boyle took a risk — and it paid off. The British director is no stranger to experimental filmmaking, having filmed 28 Days Later on digital cameras for an eerie effect that doubles down on the horror. This time around, Boyle opted to film with iPhones, which proved easier to operate, especially considering the nature of the shooting locations. Some aspects of the plot just don’t make sense, but then again, it’s a horror-fantasy. The filmmakers brought back an incredible franchise, with hints towards yet another upcoming installment picking up where 28 Years Later leaves off. Is 28 Years Later the best in the franchise? Perhaps not, but it stands out for its attempt to dissect the human psyche. A friendly warning: 28 Years Later isn’t family friendly, to say the least. The film is heavy on the gore, and may not suit certain audiences. WHERE TO WATCH- 28 Years Later is currently screening at Vox Cinemas in City Center Almaza, Mall of Egypt, and City Center Alexandria. You can also catch the film at CFCM and District 5’s Scene Cinemas, Cima Arkan, and Zawya. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:12).

📽 Your memory might be a little rusty, and this live-action remake is here to remind you once more how to train a dragon. 15 years after the release of the popular animated film series, Canadian director Dean DeBlois is taking us back to his favorite universe with a rendition of How to Train Your Dragon that brings the story to life through real actors, CGI, practical effects, and puppetry. The film joins a long list of animated favorites getting the live-action treatment, but will it live up to its predecessor? Take cover. How to Train Your Dragon takes place on the fictional Viking island of Berk — where people find themselves constantly under attack by dragons. Determined to wipe out the threat, the villagers train their children for combat from an early age, while the men go to war. For our main character, Hiccup (Mason Thames), life’s a bit of a cruel mess. As if having a frail build and gentle heart as a viking weren’t enough, Hiccup finds himself under immense pressure to shape up from his father, the island chief (played by Gerald Butler, who also voices the character in the original film).A life-changing encounter. When Hiccup comes across a Night Fury dragon — a species feared as the most dangerous — he finds a creature that is surprisingly gentle and intelligent. Hiccup begins to question everything his village believes about dragons as an unlikely bond forms between him and “Toothless” — a name fit for a dragon, naturally. Hiccup begins having dangerous thoughts that won’t sit well with the rest of his people: What if people and dragons could co-exist?Does the live-action adaptation offer something new? While DeBlois had emphasized his desire to introduce new emotional dimensions to both the story and the characters, the film largely retreads familiar ground. Only a handful of scenes veered away from the original, primarily ones between Hiccup and his father. That said, we still enjoyed our time at the cinema. The casting was strong, performances expressive, and visual effects striking.While the film may not break new ground, it’s a nostalgic journey through a universe beloved by many. Lots of love went into the film, and it’s easy to tell — the cast and crew’s passion for the fictional island (and dragons) was infectious. Don’t believe us? Check out the film’s BTS documentary for yourself. The production’s wholesome energy is perhaps reason enough for us to overlook the Hollywood remake curse amidst a cinematic season that isn’t living up to expectations.Need a refresher? You can watch the original How to Train Your Dragon trilogy on OSN+.WHERE TO WATCH- How to Train Your Dragon is screening at Vox Cinemas — in City Center Almaza, Mall of Egypt, and Mall of Alexandria — as well as Point 90 Cinema, CFC and District 5’s Scene Cinemas, and Cima Arkan. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (watch, runtime: 2:28).

🎥 If you thought the beloved John Wick series had come to an end, you’d be dead wrong. Ana de Armas has brought the franchise back to life in Ballerina. Directed by Len Wiseman, known for the Underworld films, and written by Derek Kolstad, who penned the previous John Wick screenplays, the story takes place between the third and fourth installments. It follows a young girl whose father is killed by an unknown gang, and as she grows up, feelings of anger and desire for revenge consume her.After her father's death and the loss of her family, Winston (Ian McShane) takes on the task of bringing Eve Macarro (de Armas) into the world of Ruska Roma, where she joins the organization led by the Director (Anjelica Huston). There, she's secretly trained in violent combat and assassination techniques under the cover of learning ballet. After 12 years with the organization, Eve transforms into a professional killer and decides to hunt down the faction that murdered her father to exact her revenge.Less dialogue, more fighting: The film is packed with action and fight sequences that never become tedious despite their frequency. The filmmakers relied heavily on the action scenes that de Armas performed with remarkable skill, seamlessly transitioning between her vulnerability and fragility as a desperate young woman and the strength fueled by her deep-seated rage. While John Wick's paths cross with Eve's in only a few scenes, they’re not wasted, and are worth every second for diehard fans.Kill like a girl: The story might seem quite predictable, but what the film offers to John Wick universe fans — featuring many characters that shape this world, including Reeves and Lance Reddick (Charon, the Continental Hotel receptionist) in his final role before his passing — alongside de Armas's skill and ability to captivate audiences with her composed performance and flawlessly executed action sequences, makes us overlook the story's simplicity and occasional superficiality. And there may well be more to the tale…WHERE TO WATCH- Ballerina is screening at VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, Citystars, Scene Cinemas at District 5 and Cairo Festival City, as well as Cima Arkan. You can also watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:24).

📺 This con artist docuseries proves there’s no such thing as “too online” to lie: The Search for Instagram’s Worst Con Artist is a two-part itvX documentary airing on Netflix that unpacks the true story of Belle Gibson (as opposed to the fictionalized retelling of Apple Cider Vinegar) — an Australian wellness influencer who faked brain cancer to build a USD multi mn brand. It’s a modern cautionary tale about the power of social media, the gullibility of wellness culture, and the danger of unchecked virality.The show has a tight, effective structure: It blends interviews with family members, journalists, and friends with footage of Belle’s old posts and press appearances. The format doesn’t waste time on fluff — it keeps the focus on how Belle spun her lie, monetized it, and left real people emotionally and financially wrecked in the aftermath.Gibson is a fascinating subject because the question isn’t just what she lied about — it’s why. The documentary resists easy conclusions about narcissism or sociopathy, instead painting a more complex picture of self-deception, ambition, and cultural complicity. One moment, you're watching her hawk a cancer-curing app on national TV, the next, you're hearing from people who stopped their actual treatments because they believed her.Stay for the unraveling, not redemption: There’s no grand apology or teary reckoning from Belle (she declined to participate). Instead, what we get is far more unsettling — a portrait of a woman who may still believe her own myth. The absence of her voice works in the show’s favor, letting those who were harmed tell the story instead.WHERE TO WATCH- You can stream The Search for Instagram’s Worst Con Artist on Netflix, or watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 0:30).

🎥 After nearly three decades of death-defying stunts and globe-trotting espionage, Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt faces his most ambitious challenge yet — and unfortunately, so does the audience. The eighth installment of the Mission Impossible franchise, The Final Reckoning, is directed once again by Christopher McQuarrie, delivers the franchise’s trademark spectacular action sequences, but struggles under the weight of its own mythology (and a 170-minute runtime).Where we left off: The villain in the first part of the M:I finale, Dead Reckoning, is still at large. And it isn’t a person, it’s an AI program. Hunt and his team, including the beloved long-time characters Luther (Ving Rhames) and Benji (Simon Pegg), are racing to find a way to destroy an enemy that exists everywhere and nowhere before it falls under the control of interested parties alongside pickpocket Grace (Hayley Atwell).The good: When The Final Reckoning is good, it’s really good. Minor spoilers: Two standout sequences — a claustrophobic underwater infiltration of a sunken submarine, and the jaw-dropping aerial finale featuring Cruise clinging to the wing of a biplace over South African canyons — represent some of the most breathtaking practical filmmaking in recent memory. It’s these moments that remind us why Cruise’s commitment to doing his own struts has become legendary, creating genuine tension and spectacle that no amount of CGI can replicate.The bad: Unfortunately, these peaks are separated by vast valleys of tedious exposition and self-referential navel-gazing. The Final Reckoning suffers from what can only be described as franchise fatigue, spending far too much of its first hour reminding audiences of previous films through montages and flashbacks that feel more like a “Previously on…” reel than organic storytelling. As if fellow M:I diehards wouldn’t have binge-watched all seven installments in preparation.The Entity — the AI threatening to end all human life — represents the kind of stakes inflation that has plagued many long-running franchises. While topical, the nebulous digital villain lacks the tangible menace of previous M:I antagonists. The threat of nuclear annihilation feels abstract when delivered through endless briefing scenes rather than visceral action. When characters spend more time talking about how important everything is rather than letting the action speak for itself, something fundamental has been lost. But at the same time, how do you fight AI?Strong performances despite it all: Hayley Atwell continues to prove herself a worthy addition to the IMF team, while Ving Rhames provides the film’s most genuine emotional moments as the long-suffering Luther. Angela Bassett brings gravitas to her role as President Sloane, and scene-stealers like Tramell Tillman — who you might know from Severance — make the most of their limited screen time. But the ensemble feels constrained by a script more interested in servicing plot mechanics than character development. Even Cruise — typically charismatic in the role of Ethan Hunt, seems weighed down by the film’s insistence on treating him as a messianic figure rather than the daring professional we’ve come to love.The verdict: The Final Reckoning will satisfy devoted fans seeking closure and spectacular action, but it represents a step back from the near-perfect balance of spectacle and storytelling that made its immediate predecessors so thrilling. It's a reminder that sometimes, less really can be more — even when Tom Cruise is hanging from an airplane.WHERE TO WATCH- Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning is screening at VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, Scene Cinemas at Cairo Festival City and District 5, Citystars Cinemas, and Cima Arkan. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime 2:18).

📺 Five years after the film of the same name, New Zealandian directors, writers, and comedians Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement have returned to revamp (pun intended) the concept as a horror-comedy mockumentary. The series has the same theme and spirit as the beloved film, doubling down on the creators’ signature absurd comedy. The show ran for six seasons, with the final episode airing mid-December last year. But it’s not too late to jump on the bandwagon.Three vampires walk into a bar… A documentary crew follows a trio of vampires — Nandor (Kayvan Novak), Laszlo (Matt Berry), and Nadja (Natasia Demetriou) — who have lived together for over a hundred years in a gothic mansion in New York City, after arriving in Staten Island as part of European immigration waves. Despite over a century in the US, they have failed to get with the times.Our absurd heroes: Nandor is a bloodthirsty Ottoman warrior who led armies and destroyed enemies — he may be the oldest of the three, but he’s also the most naïve and childlike. Lazlo was a chaotic and nihilistic English nobleman who indulged in everything, turned into a vampire by his wife Nadja, who has prominent Greek-Roman roots and a strong personality. The mansion is also home to another type of vampire, Colin Robinson (Mark Proksh), who instead of feeding on human blood, feeds on their energy by boring them to death with tedious conversations. Alongside the four lives Guillermo (Harvey Guillén), a shy young Mexican man who has served Nandor for years, hoping that someday he’ll turn him into a vampire.The series mocks popular vampire myths by depicting the tediousness of immortality, sapping all seriousness that may come with it through the ridiculousness of their personalities, creating a unique comedic experience. For example, when the trio first arrived in the US, their main goal was to conquer the New World and establish vampiric dominance over the continent — but they kept getting distracted by daily trivialities like keeping the mansion clean, dealing with neighbors, understanding advanced technology, getting caught up in government bureaucracy, and even falling in love.The show relies on situational comedy and self deprecating humor, taking a sarcastic approach and an indifferent narrative tone. The dialogue is clever and brilliantly original, packed with subtle jokes that mock contemporary human culture. The performances hit the nail on the head across the board, with clear character development throughout the seasons. Most reviews praise the smooth transition from the big screen to the small screen, a consensus that earned the show positive ratings, 193 award nominations, and 28 victories.One of the series’s standout features is the music, especially the end credits song selections. We recommend watching through the credits instead of rushing to play the next episode, though we’re sure you’ll find this difficult. It’s worth noting that the series revived Norma Tanega’s 1966 hit You’re Dead by using it for their opening theme.DISCLAIMER: This series is far from family friendly — many episodes contain explicit language and depictions of nudity.WHERE TO WATCH- All six seasons are available on Disney+, or watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:09).

📺 The simplicity of living: The 2023 Oscan nominated Japanese film Perfect Days brings a profound concept to the screen: the beauty of uncomplicated living. We follow Hirayama, a Tokyo toilet cleaner who approaches each day without grand expectations, finding meaning in the rhythm of routine rather than the pursuit of more.Ritual as a sacred practice: Work, cassette tapes, point-and-shoot photography, plants, books — repeat. Hirayama’s structured daily routine isn’t monotony — it’s meditation. Each pre-dawn awakening in his modest home marks the beginning of another carefully observed day. Though he speaks little, his appreciation for companionship runs deep. Much of the film’s power lies in what remains unspoken, requiring viewers to read the subtle language of gesture and glance to understand our protagonist’s inner world. This isn’t a film driven by dramatic plot twists or high-stakes action — it finds its drama in the quiet moments of a life fully lived.Visual poetry: Veteran director Wim Wenders captures something truly exquisite. Japan’s natural beauty unfolds through Hirayama’s daily photography ritual, as he documents his beloved trees with the same devotion others might reserve for grand adventures. The film’s color palette — warm, nature-inspired tones — creates an atmosphere of profound calm that mirrors our protagonist’s inner state.A gentle revolution. In a world of constant documentation, hyperconnectivity, and flaying overachievement, Hirayama’s contentment feels almost revolutionary. While others chase career milestones and post their lives online, Hirayama finds fulfillment in work that many would consider humble at best, degrading at worst. His colleagues question why he takes toilet cleaning so seriously, but Hirayama offers no justification. What might appear as loneliness to others reveals itself as deep self-satisfaction. Perhaps this is the element we have forgotten about living well.Perfect Days doesn’t suggest that life can or should be free from pain. Hirayama encounters reminders of his past — unwelcome memories that surface despite his peaceful present. But the film’s wisdom lies in showing how he sits with these difficult moments without allowing them to destroy his carefully cultivated tranquility. He neither ignores the pain nor lets it consume him, finding instead a middle path that honors both his sorrow and joy.WHERE TO WATCH- You can find the movie on Apple TV+, Amazon Prime or watch the trailer on YouTube (watch, runtime: 1:37).

🎥 Final Destination Bloodlines is not here to play, but it’s definitely here to make sport of a certain family’s deaths. The sixth installment in the uber-popular cult classic series has finally dropped in theatres worldwide, — and Egypt — and we’re pleased to say that it lives up to expectations. Directed by Adam B. Stein and Zach Lipovsky, Bloodlines was a far cry from the duo’s directorial comfort zone, but the franchise was ultimately done proud.The visionary actually saves lives this time. When Iris Campbell (Brec Bassinger) has a premonition that the recently-built Sky View tower where her partner took her on a date was about to collapse, she does something none of the other films’ visionaries do once they have their premonition: she warns everyone, and in turn, not a single person dies. But to quote the movie, “Death doesn’t like it when you [mess] with his plans.” By rescuing everyone, Iris doomed them all. Given that everyone on that tower was supposed to die, death slowly makes its way to them all. But given the number of people that were there, it took a few years… enough for these survivors to have families of their own — ones that weren’t supposed to exist. Decades later, Iris’ estranged granddaughter, Stefani (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) gets the very same vision Iris had on the day of the catastrophe she had successfully put an end to, and comes to the conclusion that death was imminent for her family. But by the time her family believes her, they are already a couple of members down. Glory to the gore. Final Destination Bloodlines celebrates all that makes the franchise legendary — death manifests in the most ludicrous of ways, and the build-up to each demise is both excruciating and exhilarating. While we won’t spoil much, let's just say our anxieties towards certain equipment have definitely heightened following our screening. The film constantly references itself, at times even mocking its own premise — though that comes at the cost of its character’s lives.The sixth installment had some pretty big shoes to fill, and it wore them with grace — and grave danger. Final Destination Bloodlines — while hallmarked by all things quintessentially Final Destination — was a fresh reintroduction to a franchise, one that we doubt will end here, seeing as this is essentially the franchise’s introduction to a whole new generation. The film itself was fast-paced, lacked any glaring plot holes, and thankfully left no questions unanswered — and on that note, do stay for the post credits scene.WHERE TO WATCH- You can watch Final Destination Bloodlines at VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, and Scene Cinemas at Cairo Festival City and District 5. You can find the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:25).

📺 This cozy, conflicted ensemble piece won’t be for everyone — and maybe that’s the point. Netflix’s eight-part dramedy, The Four Seasons, arrives with a stacked cast including Tina Fey — also the show’s creator —, Steve Carell, and Colman Domingo. The series explores long-term friendship, aging, and how easily social equilibrium unravels when someone breaks the group’s unspoken rules, sparking surprisingly divided reactions online.The show follows three affluent, long-time couples who take seasonal vacations together — a tradition spanning decades. But things unravel when Nick (Carell) arrives on their spring trip freshly divorced and unexpectedly accompanied by his 25-year-old new girlfriend, Ginny (Erika Henningsen). Her arrival not only disturbs the group’s delicate ecosystem, but forces each couple to reexamine their own illusions about happiness, relationships, and identity. Reception has been mixed. Some viewers found the pacing rushed, the friendships unconvincing, and the dialogue stiff. Others praised its realism, dry humor, and rare focus on characters in their 50s and 60s, navigating life without resorting to murder or mayhem stories (cough, The Expendables, Red, Taken, The Foreigner, cough).Don’t expect a laugh-out-loud comedy or a tightly plotted drama. The Four Seasons is more of a “quiet show,” in the realm of comfort TV, delivering occasional emotional gut punches amid its leisurely pace. The performances are solid, but even fans agree it’s the kind of series you might enjoy while folding laundry rather than one that lingers in your mind for months.The bottom line: The Four Seasons doesn’t aim for prestige TV status — and that is both its strength and its shortcoming. For viewers in the right mood, it offers a thoughtful, grown-up slice-of-life that thoughtfully explores how relationships evolve over time. For others, it may feel like an overhyped vanity project with minimal payoff. Regardless, it stands as one of the few recent shows giving older characters emotional complexity beyond tired clichés — which alone might make it worth your time.WHERE TO WATCH- All eight episodes are now streaming on Netflix. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:04).

📺 A restaurant run by professional… Italian grandmothers? Nonnas is Netflix’s latest feel-good family film that will have you shedding a few tears and craving a few Italian dishes. Starring Vince Vaughn as Joe Scaravella, — an Italian-American New Yorker dealing with the loss of his mother — Nonnas follows Scaravella as he makes the leap into the culinary world, purchasing an abandoned restaurant with his inheritance money with the sole purpose of turning it into an Italian restaurant run by actual Italian grandmothers in an attempt to honor his mother and grandmother’s love for food.Nothing brings strangers together quite like recipes passed down through generations. When Scaravella makes the leap and buys the restaurant, all he’s missing is the women who’ll be cooking. He proceeds to put forth an ad on craigslist, which pretty much brings in only one willing volunteer — but nevertheless we end up with our four main nonnas: Roberta, Teresa, Gia, and Antonella.But even nonnas have enemies. Joe Scaravella’s restaurant faces quite a few hurdles — from unfortunate accidents to neighbors that just can’t get used to new company, Nonnas’ culinary flight isn’t a smooth one. Italian nonnas, however, don’t give up so easily.A much-needed reminder of what truly matters: The importance of family — both of the blood and of the chosen nature — is a hallmark of the film. Nonnas genuinely feels like a cinematic hug, and one that couldn’t have come a second earlier. It’s rare that a Netflix original delivers an emotional punch without lending itself to cheesy tropes, but with Nonnas, the streaming giant does just that.Some familiar faces, and a few fresh ones. Alongside Vaughn, the cast comprises Thelma & Louise’s Susan Sarandon, Goodfellas’ Lorraine Bracco, and Talia Shire, who returns to the digital screen following a decades-long absence since appearing in both the Rocky and Godfather franchises. The cast effortlessly embodies the roles of elderly Italian “nonnas” — and pretty much confirm how the stereotypical quirks ring true regardless of how different each of them might be.The best part? Nonnas is real. If the movie leaves that much of an impression on you, — and you happen to have an overflow of frequent flyer miles — you’ll be pleased to know that the film is based on a true story, and that if you ever find yourself near Staten Island, New York, you can try their Capuzzelle for yourself. WHERE TO WATCH- You can stream the film on Netflix and find the trailer on YouTube (Runtime: 2:24).

🎥 Director Christopher Langdon’s latest thriller Drop is about a nightmare of a first date. The premise is deceptively simple — Violet (Meghann Fahy of The White Lotus fame), a therapist and survivor of domestic abuse, finally ventures back into dating with the seemingly perfect Henry (Brandon Sklenar) at an upscale Chicago restaurant. Their evening takes a sinister turn when anonymous messages start arriving via “DigiDrop” — a fictional AirDrop stand-in — threatening her family unless she follows increasingly dangerous instructions.What makes Drop work is its commitment to efficiency. Landon, known for his playful horror-comedies Happy Death Day and Freaky, strips away his usual humor to deliver something more grounded and immediate. The film understands its limitations — primarily confined to a single restaurant location — and turns them into strengths. Every glance at a phone screen, every patron illuminated by their device, becomes a potential threat.The film’s visual language maintains a sleek momentum that matches the swipe-and-scroll era. The aesthetic feels both contemporary and classical, drawing clear inspiration from confined-space thrillers while updating the formula for the smartphone generation. The plot mechanics do grow increasingly convoluted as the film progresses, and the entire scheme may — at the end — seem unnecessarily complex for its outcome. But Drop wisely doesn’t pause long enough for that to sink in. Like the best B-movie thrillers, it prioritizes momentum over logic, understanding that audience engagement matters more than airtight plotting.The film also touches on deeper themes without belaboring them. Violet’s status as an abuse survivor adds weight to her predicament — she’s once again trapped by violence, forced to perform compliance for survival. The script wisely doesn’t overplay this parallel, trusting Fahy to convey these layers through performance rather than dialogue.Drop won’t revolutionize the genre, and it doesn’t aspire to. And in an era of bloated franchises and overwrought prestige pictures, there’s something refreshing about that. It knows exactly what it wants to be — a swift, stylish thriller that wrings maximum tension from minimum resources. Those seeking a tight, well-crafted diversion that makes clever use of contemporary technology while honoring classic thriller traditions, Drop hits the target.WHERE TO WATCH- You can watch Drop at VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, and Scene Cinemas at Cairo Festival City and District 5. You can find the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:49).

📺 Apple TV+ adds a loving throwback to classic cable crime dramas to its roster of quality programming. Dope Thief is an eight-episode limited series that reminds us of the golden age of crime dramas — think Breaking Bad with a dash of Psych — that offers something fresh in today’s streaming landscape.Partners in crime: The series follows best friends Ray (Brian Tyree Henry) and Manny (Wagner Moura), two small-time Philadelphia criminals who’ve perfected a hustle posing as DEA agents to raid drug houses and steal funds and product. Their carefully calibrated operation — targeting only low-level dealers who can’t report the theft — implodes when they take “one last job” that lands them in the crosshairs of both actual federal agents and ruthless drug traffickers.The inaugural episode, directed by executive producer Ridley Scott, sets a tone of propulsive energy for the show, with a tense but also darkly humorous opening sequence. From there, the series maintains impressive production value throughout its run, with nail-biting chase scenes, explosive shootouts, and an escalating sense of desperation. What’s remarkable about the series isn’t its plot or even its many action sequences — it’s its crackly dialogue. No words are wasted or minced — each line across the limited series adds to the characterization, whether setting the sense of place or nodding to characters’ hidden desires.This premise and execution provides the perfect canvas for Henry to deliver what might be his most demanding and impressive performance to date — he brilliantly portrays Ray’s complex internal life, with deep trauma and vulnerability barely concealed by his protective bravado persona. The supporting cast rises to his level, with Moura bringing a haunted quality to Manny’s deadpan humor. While Ray and Manny are constantly yelling at each other, Henry is so good at being simultaneously exasperated and concerned, and Moura so skillful at veering between freneticism and compassion, that their antagonism always comes off as a form of love.WHERE TO WATCH- Dope Thief is available on Apple TV+, and you can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 3:00).

🎥 There’s no denying that the MCU has been in rough shape since Avengers Endgame, with few exceptions like Spider-Man: No Way Home and Deadpool & Wolverine letting longtime fans cling on to hope. Thunderbolts doesn’t quite restore Marvel to its former glory, but it offers something arguably more valuable — a course correction that prioritizes character over spectacle.Suicide Squad if it was good: Russian assassin Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) of Black Widow fame, is burnt out and emotionally hollow in Director Jake Schreier’s Thunderbolts. She finds herself reluctantly teaming up with a collection of Marvel’s misfits after they discover that their handler, Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) — who was peppered throughout the MCU, but featured most notably in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever — has marked them for elimination. The resulting adventure is refreshingly scaled-down and character-focused — less about saving the universe and more about saving themselves.The assembled team represents Marvel’s curious new strategy of building a marquee film around secondary characters from previous entries. The most recognizable faces are Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Red Guardian (David Harbour), and are joined by disgraced Captain America replacement John Walker (Wyatt Russell), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and the mysterious Bob (Lewis Pullman). These aren’t gods or bn’aire geniuses — they’re downtrodden people who, as Yelena describes them, mostly just “punch and shoot.”What distinguishes Thunderbolts from Marvel’s many secondary-character productions is that the characters know they’re not A-listers. The film has a scrappy, down-to-earth energy that serves both as its narrative engine and its meta-commentary. The B-team know they’ve made mistakes, failed spectacularly, and they live with crushing guilt. The script by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo mines this territory for both humor and surprising emotional depth.But the Marvel curse is inescapable. After methodically building character dynamics and establishing a grounded tone, Thunderbolts shifts into a more conventional MCU finale involving Void, a superpowered entity whose abilities are allegedly stronger than “all the Avengers rolled into one.” While Schreier attempts something visually inventive — staging the confrontation in surreal psychological landscapes he refers to as “interconnected shame rooms” — the resolution feels rushed and disappointingly neat given the psychological complexity that preceded it.Thunderbolts isn’t perfect, but it suggests a promising path forward by the MCU — for a franchise at risk of collapsing under its own narrative weight, sometimes what’s needed isn’t another world-ending threat, but the simple pleasure of watching compelling characters. In that sense, Thunderbolts isn’t just a solid entry in the MCU canon — it’s a template for how Marvel could (and should) sustainably move forward. Don’t believe us? At the movie premier, the cast tore back the Thunderbolts poster to reveal the movie’s true name: The New Avengers.WHERE TO WATCH IT- Thunderbolts is screening in VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, Scene Cinemas at District 5 and Cairo Festival City, Citystars Cinemas, and Cima Arkan. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 3:24).

📺 Does the thought of catching up on 21 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy make you want to scream? Netflix’s latest medical drama, Pulse, packs quite the punch with over just 10 bingeable episodes — but compared to the greats, does it hold up?Incoming trauma. Following a class of residents navigating the highs, lows, and plateaus of the ER, Pulse doesn’t give you a moment to breathe before throwing you headfirst into a literal hurricane. The show — set in Miami — begins with our roster of saviors receiving notice that the city is about to get hit by a storm, but, surprisingly — or unsurprisingly, depending on your knowledge of medical dramas — that isn’t what they’re most concerned about.Never [redacted] where you eat. When ER Chief Resident Xander Philips (Colin Woodell) is indefinitely suspended, the resident who reported him to HR, Danielle Simms (Willa Fitzgerald) gets his job. The residents seem skeptical of the whole situation, and politics knock on all proverbial (and literal) doors. As the episodes go on by, Xander and Danny’s relationship comes into play, with the show tracing their not-so-professional dynamic across several non-linear flashbacks. In the present day, our doctors face day-to-day uncertainty tending to their ER patients all whilst navigating a new, awkward hierarchy.Pulse knows it’s not Grey’s Anatomy. Characters in the show say it themselves when mocking a new medical intern heavily influenced by the iconic medical drama. Pulse starts off strong and peaks early, but it’s not a wade through the waters to get through the season. The show is ideal if you’re looking for a casual medical drama where you won’t get hung up on any of the characters, and is a nice watch for those itching in between weekly Grey’s Anatomy doses every Friday.WHERE TO WATCH IT - Pulse is streaming on Netflix, and you can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:50).

Is Netflix about to stream its own funeral? US President Donald Trump’s latest announcement comes at a devastating cost for the streaming giant. Yesterday, Trump took to Truth Social — a Trump Media-owned “free speech” social media platform — to express his grievances with Hollywood’s current state. In his post, the president wrote “Hollywood, and many other areas within the [US], are being devastated,” claiming that death is imminent for the movie industry in the country, and that this “is a concerted effort by other Nations and, therefore, a National Security threat.” Trump’s claims were not backed by data.Make US movies “great again”? The icing on the digital cake was Trump’s shocking announcement to begin imposing a 100% tariff on “any and all” films going into the US that were filmed on foreign lands. The issue is, that’s almost all of them. This year’s top-grossing box office films — A Minecraft Movie, Captain America: A Brave New World, as well as several upcoming movies expected to top the charts like the upcoming Mission Impossible and John Wick spinoff —, all of which will find their way to streaming services, have all been shot abroad and across a slew of countries. Yet it remains unclear how these films are to be affected by the Tariffs, Forbes Middle East reports.Netflix isn’t having a good time, and misery loves company. The White House was quick to issue a statement walking back Trump’s announcement, confirming that no final decision has yet been made on the matter of film tariffs, with several options being explored, according to Reuters. By that point, however? The damage was already done. The streaming giant, with productions spanning the entire globe, took the brunt of it, suffering a loss of USD 20 bn as Netflix stocks dropped 6.2% yesterday, with other streaming services following suit. Paramount global dropped 3.1%, Walt Disney 3.6%, and Warner Bros. Discovery 3.3%. Did Trump just wake up one day and choose chaos? Given the givens, it’s fair to assume so, yet it seems Trump’s statement was months in the making. Shortly before taking to Truth Social, Trump had met with his “special ambassador” to Hollywood, actor Jon Voight, The Guardian reports. The actor had been formulating a plan in conjunction with studios, streamers, and unions to strengthen film production in the US, and had only suggested the use of tariffs under certain circumstances — a far cry from Trump’s 100% tariff announcement — according to the British newspaper.

📺 The fifth and final season of Netflix’s psychological thriller You returns the series to its roots, bringing Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) back to New York City and the infamous Mooney’s bookstore where it all began. Netflix wisely released all ten episodes at once — unlike season four’s split release — making for a bingeable concluding chapter to Joe’s last dance with delusion.The evolution of a killer: Season five picks up three years after the events of season four, with Joe reclaiming his real identity after cycling through various aliases — Will Bettelheim, Jonathan Moore, and Rhys Montrose (IYKYK). He’s now married to bn’aire heiress Kate Lockwood (Charlotte Ritchie), who has worked to scrub his murderous past from public record. Joe has also been reunited with his son Henry, creating what appears to be a perfect nuclear family — until Joe’s darker impulses begin to resurface.This season shines in its psychological depth (and candor). Joe remains an unreliable narrator, and viewers are given front-row seats to his internal justifications, rationalizations, and self-mythologizing, putting his delusions on full naked display to the audience. As with previous seasons, Joe develops a new obsession, this time with Bronte (Madeline Brewer), a playwright who shares his love of literature and challenges him with her intelligence and self-awareness. Bewer delivers a standout performance of one of the most highly controversial characters throughout all five seasons.The season finale has proven divisive among fans. No spoilers here, but an interview with the New York Post has shown that no matter how controversial the ending was, it could have been much, much worse. Showrunner Michael Foley admitted that he and co-chair Justin W. Lo had been considering alternate endings until late in the season, including one where Joe (and the audience) would discover that he had been a ghost throughout the entire final season. We thank our lucky stars for what actually took place — as contentious as it was.Strong performances all around: All of the core cast deserve their flowers, but Anna Camp’s brilliant dual portrayal of Kate’s half sisters Reagan — cold and calculating — and Maddie — sugary, albeit naive — was an easy favorite. Another breakout character, Teddy (Griffin Matthews) was a much needed and well-played straight-man and comedic foil, making him a quick fan favorite.The best and worst thing about You S5 is that it remains true to the show’s formula from beginning to end. The main storyline has always been about a man lost and looking for love, willing to kill to get it. The season suffers from a sense of sameness and rough pacing. After four seasons, audiences may have hoped for a switch-up that never comes. But when all is said and done, You still remains a killer show.WHERE TO WATCH- All five seasons are streaming on Netflix, and you can find the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:35).

🎥 In Sinners, director Ryan Coogler and star Michael B. Jordan have crafted something truly extraordinary — a vampire horror tale that transcends genre expectations to become a powerful historical allegory. Set against the backdrop of the 1930s US South, this film masterfully interweaves supernatural terror with the soulful cadence of blues music to create a haunting meditation on Black history and cultural identity.The narrative centers on Sammy (Miles Caton), a gifted young man with a mesmerizing talent for singing, who finds himself trapped between his love for the Blues and the expectations forced upon him by his priest father, who sees his love for music as a dance with the devil.Blues and blood: His life intersects with twin brothers Smoke and Stack (Jordan in a dual role), war-weary Chicago veterans who return to their Mississippi roots to open a juke joint. What begins as a celebration of music and community quickly descends into terror when white vampires, led by the charismatic Remmick (Jack O’Connell), infiltrate their opening night, transforming it into a blood-soaked nightmare.It’s not often that a blood-sucker tale goes beyond entertainment. Coogler uses vampirism as a brilliant allegory for colonialism and culture appropriation in the most malicious sense — the vampires don’t just crave blood, they hunger for the very essence of Black identity and artistry. The Blues music that permeates the film becomes a powerful symbol of cultural resilience — something that cannot be bought, stolen, or erased despite overwhelming forces of subjugation. Ovation-worthy performances all around: Caton’s haunting vocal talents add authentic emotional depth to the character’s journey. Jordan’s portrayal of the twins showcases his remarkable range, while O’Connell chills as the sophisticated yet merciless vampire patriarch. The production design meticulously recreates Depression-era Mississippi, and the film’s atmospheric cinematography alternates between warm, golden-hued musical sequences, and shadow-drenched horror.The film’s commercial success — USD 163 mn in just its second week — speaks to its broad appeal despite its unflinching approach to both supernatural horror and historical trauma. The magnificent soundtrack, featuring original Blues compositions performed by Caton himself, serves as the film’s beating heart, creating an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll.Be advised: The film contains graphic violence and disturbing imagery that isn’t suitable for all audiences. And whatever you do, don’t leave before the end credits scene.WHERE TO WATCH- Sinners is playing at VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, Scene Cinemas at Cairo Festival City and District 5, Zawya Cinema, and Cima Arkan. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:00).

📺 Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar is based on the remarkable true (kinda) story of Belle Gibson, an Australian wellness influencer who built an empire on a foundation of lies. The six-part limited series explores not just the mechanics of a con, but the psychology behind it, and the cultural factors that allowed it to flourish.Gibson’s meteoric rise in the early 2010s came after claiming that she cured her terminal brain cancer through diet and alternative therapies. Her wellness app, cookbook, and Instagram presence, helped her amass 200k followers — which was a lot back then — before her lies were exposed.What makes Apple Cider Vinegar stand out from Netflix’s growing catalog of scammer tales is a nuanced approach to what could have easily been just another melodrama. Kaitlyn Dever’s tour-de-force portrayal of Gibson gives emotional complexity to a character that could have been portrayed as a one-dimensional villain. Instead, we see the layers of Gibson’s psyche — her desperate need for attention, her calculated manipulation, and moments of what appear to be genuine self-delusion.The show is at its strongest when examining the ecosystem that enabled Gibson’s deception. The parallel storyline of Milla Blake (Alycia Debnam-Carey), a rival wellness blogger who actually has cancer and truly believes in the alternative treatments she promotes, the women’s magazines, book publishers, and tech companies are all painted as complicit — whether directly or not — in creating an environment that made Gibson’s story believable and compelling, especially to those failed by traditional medicine.WHERE TO WATCH- Apple Cider Vinegar is streaming on Netflix, and you can find the trailer on YouTube (watch, runtime: 2:39).

🎥 From the terrifying mind of Stephen King, director Oz Perkins returns to cinema with The Monkey — a blend of horror, dark comedy, and gratuitous violence adapted from a short story of the same name, about a cursed toy monkey that brings misfortune to whoever possesses it.Where it all began: Twin brothers Hal and Bill (Christian Convery as a child and Theo James as an adult) accidentally discover among the possessions of their mysteriously disappeared father a strange toy monkey with an attached drum, ready to strike. As the brothers inspect it, they find that it is possessed by an evil spirit that instantly kills anyone it chooses.After the controversial Longlegs, Perkins’ new horror falls short of its predecessor despite its promising potential. Instead of Longlegs ’ expertly crafted dread, the focus of The Monkey seemed to be filming as many bloody scenes as possible, and coming up with increasingly inventive ways to be killed — at the expense of the story’s emotional dimension. Nevertheless, the cast — especially James and the young Convery — do their best to compensate for the film’s shortcomings by fleshing out their character and focusing on the central dilemma: “Death is inevitable, so why does it still take us by surprise?” This concept comes to a head in the final scene, an uncharacteristically good ending for the horror genre.Disclaimer: The film contains graphic scenes of violence and gore, which may not be suitable for some age groups.WHERE TO WATCH- The Monkey is in theaters in VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, Citystars, Scene Cinemas at Cairo Festival City and District 5, Zawya Cinema, and Cima Arkan. You can find the trailer on YouTube (watch, runtime: 2:12).

📺 The Studio is both a love letter and a middle finger to Hollywood. Seth Rogen and Apple TV+ have crafted a satirical take on moviemaking that feels both timely and timeless — an ode to the Tinseltown filmmaking industry that isn’t afraid to point out all its warts.(Tap or click the headline above to read this story with all of the links to external sources.)Hollywood, heal thyself. When we meet Matt Remick (Rogen), he has just been promoted to head Continental Studios after his mentor Patty (Catherine O’Hara) gets unceremoniously ousted. Matt fancies himself a champion of cinema — the kind of executive to greenlight the next The Godfather. But reality crashes immediately when CEO Griffin Mill (Bryan Cranston) demands he develop a Kool-Aid Man movie to rival the USD bn success of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie.What follows is Matt’s desperate tightrope walk between artistic integrity and commercial demands — a balancing act he’s hilariously ill-equipped to handle thanks to a chronic need to be liked. Rogen brings a perfect mixture of neediness and neurosis to the role — he wants to be the hero of Hollywood’s story while lacking both the spine and conviction to actually be one.Stars playing themselves (but better). The parade of celebrity cameos could easily have become insufferable, but The Studio utilizes these famous faces with surprising effectiveness. Even with the titanic (yet restrained) appearances of Martin Scorsese, Steve Buscemi, Paul Dano, Charlize Theron, and Greta Lee, each cameo feels purposeful rather than gratuitous. None of the celebrities overstays their welcome.A technical tour de force: Rogen doesn’t shy away from flaunting his (surprising) directorial prowess, with each episode attempting a meta feat of cinematography directly tied to the content. In the second episode, Matt continuously disrupts director Sarah Polley’s movie set as she attempts to film a one-shot scene — and it itself is entirely filmed in one take.The core conflicts are universal: The tension between art and commerce, the desperate need for validation, and the challenge of managing egos (including your own). These themes make the Hollywood-specific comedy accessible even to those who have never heard technical terms like “put pictures” and “above the line.” For all its punchlines, The Studio carries an underlying melancholy that gives it unexpected depth. Matt’s love for 70s cinema and his refusal to accept the reality of a once proud industry that now views artistry as an unfeasible pipe dream is what stops the show from being a soulless parody. Instead, it is a complicated love letter to an art form that no longer has a place in the industry it created.WHERE TO WATCH- The Studio is streaming on Apple TV+, with the season finale dropping tomorrow, 23 April.

🎥 If you haven’t watched Siko Siko yet, it’s not too late. This Eid film stars Essam Omar and Taha Desouky, is written by Mohamed El Dabbah of Beit El Ruby fame, and directed by Omar El Mohandis, known for the Balto series. Since its release over Eid, this comedy has topped the silver screen stats, grossing EGP 103 mn and proving that good humor still drives the box office.The inheritance scheme: Yahya (Omar) and Selim (Desouky) are estranged cousins with a deeply rooted strained relationship. They reunite at the office of family lawyer Soliman (Soliman Eid), where they learn their uncle has died and left them a substantial inheritance of EGP 15 mn. The catch? It involves circumstances that may or may not violate local laws, putting them in a risky position — and naturally, plenty of comedic situations — as they try to claim it.The film succeeds through its young talent, both on-screen and behind the camera. With a compelling story that naturally incorporates humor without forcing it, the cast delivers 90 minutes of sharp comedy that’s been absent from screens lately. The work showcases the talents of the young director and writer, who jointly present a fresh approach to comedy — one that is situational rather than born of exaggeration or shock value. WHERE TO WATCH- Siko Siko is currently screening at VOX Cinemas in City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, Citystars, Scene Cinemas in Cairo Festival City and District 5, Zawya, and Cima Arkan. You can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:16).

📺 Netflix’s latest mystery thriller brings high-stakes intrigue to the US’s most famous address. Based on a book of the same name by writer and journalist Kate Andersen Brower, The Residence boasts an impressive cast led by Emmy winner Uzo Aduba (who you may remember from Orange Is the New Black), and the always-captivating Giancarlo Esposito of Breaking Bad fame, for a whodunnit that blends political drama with classic murder mystery elements.During an official dinner at the White House, the life of head usher AB Wynter is taken. The brilliant detective Cordelia Cupp (Aduba), known for her unique approach to uncovering facts and solving mysteries — as well as her great (or peculiar) passion for birdwatching —, is tasked with investigating the crime. Cupp begins her search inside the massive 132-room house with a list of over 100 suspects, each with their own grudge or motive that might have driven them to kill the head usher (Esposito).The series delivers a thrilling story across 8 episodes, with stellar performances, especially by Aduba. Each suspect is fleshed out enough to keep the audience emotionally invested and impatient to discover the secrets they hide within the walls of the White House.The creative cinematography was strikingly reminiscent of The Grand Budapest Hotel. The impeccable attention to detail in setting, costumes, soundtrack, and clever storytelling that keeps us on the edge of our seats until the very end.High scores across the board: The series has received wide acclaim from both critics and audiences alike, proving to be an entertaining and engaging watch with touches of light comedy — perfect for a weekend binge.WHERE TO WATCH- The Residence is streaming on Netflix, and you can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:24).

MARK YOUR CALENDAR- 🎞️ Film aficionados, get ready to walk through 100 years of Egyptian cinema. On Saturday, 19 April, Qahrawya will tour through famous shooting locations, old cinemas, and the film studios of yore to help us appreciate the magic of vintage films and the great work studios are doing today. You can find more details on their Facebook page, or use the link in the event bio to register.HAPPENING THIS WEEK-Massar Egbari will hit the stage next Friday in Sheikh Zayed: The band is bringing their signature sound and fan favorites to Teatro Arkan on Friday, 18 April. The concert kicks off at 8pm, and tickets are available now on TicketsMarche.Multidisciplinary artist Hossam Abou Elela’s More Than Just A Word exhibition at Nout Gallery in Zamalek. The exhibit will be open daily to the public until Wednesday, 30 April, from 12pm to 7pm. Entrance to the gallery is unpaid.HAPPENING LATER-Tamer Ashour on the ZED stage. Get ready to see Tamer Ashour on the big stage at ZED Park in Sheikh Zayed City on Friday, 25 April starting at 8pm. Tickets are available on Tazkarti. Society of Play + Al Zomra = Easter Breeze. Head to Uptown Cairo on Saturday, 26 April at 12pm to celebrate Easter with outdoor picnics, grill stations, egg painting, pottery, musical activities, and a golden egg hunt. You can reserve your spot on TicketsMarche.Have you hopped on the latest game night craze? Boom Room is hosting a night of strategy and competition as the Skrew Official Tournament kicks off on Friday, 2 May. Tickets are available on Ticketsmarche.The king of latin pop lands in Egypt. Grammy-winning global superstar Enrique Eglesias will be performing at Rixos Radamis, Sharm El Sheikh on Saturday, 3 May. Tickets to the concert are exclusive to guests at Rixos Radamis and Rixos Premium Seagate hotels and resorts.Omar Khairat’s Grand Show is taking place on Friday, 9 May. Dress up in your finest formal wear and head to the Qubba Palace to experience the iconic composer’s unforgettable talent. Tickets are available on TicketsMarche.Fans of smooth jazz have a rare chance to see Michael Bublé live on Monday, May 26 at the New Capital. The Grammy winner promises a landmark concert with his smooth, soulful voice and timeless hits for one special evening in Egypt. Tickets are now live on TicketsMarche.

📺 The seventh season of Black Mirror is as unsettling as ever — perhaps because it hits closer to home than ever before. The newest six episodes signal an evolution in the show’s approach to our complicated relationship with technology. While the concerns remain heritage Black Mirror — consciousness transfers, digital clones, AI, subscription-based capitalism — this season offers a more nuanced and mature experience than its predecessors, focusing on the flawed but sympathetic characters trying to navigate challenging technological landscapes.(Tap or click the headline above to read this story with all of the links to external sources.)Where earlier seasons might have pushed concepts to their bleakest extremes, season seven surprised us with glimmers of hope. Instead of implying that technological advancement inevitably leads to exploitation and moral rot, season seven presents a more balanced — if not just ambivalent instead of pessimistic — view: Technology can be both destructive and potential redemptive, or simply act as a lens through which we can better understand ourselves. This tonal shift feels well-timed — Black Mirror’s past catalogue of sociopathic bn’aires gaining more and more power over our daily lives and genAI becoming a pressing existential threat is no longer simple dystopian sci-fi.Our first sequel: What stands out most about this season is a more overt willingness to engage with its own history. While some episodes had previously alluded to elements of others within the Black Mirror universe — nothing beyond an easter egg — for the first time, the anthology directly connects to previous episodes through a sequel to USS Callister and a spinoff of the interactive Bandersnatch. This may feel worryingly final to some, but we choose to optimistically believe that showrunner Charlie Brooker is simply taking stock of Black Mirror’s journey while pushing into new emotional territory.Mostly hits: Mild spoilers ahead. Bête Noire and Plaything — episodes two and four respectively — seem to have missed the mark for most of the audience. The former had us on the edge of our seat until the last scene, where Black Mirror’s new optimism proved green. Plaything had a similar underdeveloped feel, but with Peter Capaldi at the helm of the cast, we can’t count it as a skip. We hesitated to be optimistic about USS Callister’s sequel Into Infinity — the first installment is an easy series-wide fan favorite — but the sequel proved just as good, marking this season’s most entertaining entry.WHERE TO WATCH- Season 7 of Black Mirror is available on Netflix, and you can watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:58).