Popular DC Comics characters may make an appearance in James Gunn's upcoming Superman: Legacy film. As the DCEU winds down, the new DC Universe readies for takeoff. Late in January, Peter Safran and Gunn unveiled a slew of "Gods and Monsters"–themed projects for the DC Extended Universe. Superman: Legacy is a title they are working on for a release in 2025.

A new Man of Steel is being sought out as Gunn takes on the dual roles of writer and director on Superman: Legacy. Nonetheless, it has been speculated that a number of established DC characters would make cameos in the new series. The Hot Mic Podcast host Jeff Sneider has claimed that the upcoming Superman: Legacy has three essential cast members. Lex Luthor, Lois Lane, and Jimmy Olsen are expected to make an appearance in the film. Neither DC Studios nor Warner Bros. Discovery have addressed this speculation as of yet. 

Even if Lex Luthor does appear in Superman: Legacy, the greater question is whether or not he will play a significant villainous role. Lex Luthor hasn't been a major antagonist in a DC film since 2016's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. After that, Lex stopped making appearances in movies. It's worth mentioning, though, that Lex Luthor has always played a pivotal role as Superman's archenemy.

Lex Luthor may have a role in Superman: Legacy, although he probably won't be the main antagonist. Lex's villainous position in a potential sequel may have been inspired by the remake. It would be boring if Lex became Superman's first major adversary. Instead, the franchise would be better served by building to a wider fight between the two sides.

Furthermore, there are a plethora of Superman antagonists that have yet to be included in a film. Rebooting the Superman film series with a new primary antagonist is another way to set it apart from the franchise's previous entries. If Lex Luthor is in Superman: Legacy, then hopefully Gunn is thinking about that. The inclusion of Superman canon staples like Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen in Superman: Legacy makes perfect sense.

It has been speculated that a young actor in the mold of Chris Pratt may play Clark Kent in the next Superman: Legacy film. In 2025, Superman: Legacy will launch the DC Cinematic Universe into orbit. This upcoming Superman film is so crucial that James Gunn, who is now in charge of all creative production at DC Studios, is directing and writing it. Since Henry Cavill's departure from the role of Superman was linked to a younger actor taking it over, everyone is wondering who Gunn would cast as Clark Kent. Now, a rumor reveals some background on the current Superman quest.

Previously, Pratt admitted that he had auditioned for the role of Superman in 2006's Superman Returns, a role that ultimately went to Brandon Routh. The fact that Gunn and Pratt worked together on the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy for Marvel gives validity to DC's rumored casting criterion for the new Superman. Zac Efron has the charisma and naturalness to play a little younger version of Superman, and his comic timing is on par with that of Chris Pratt.

Efron has proven throughout his career that he is capable of leading a major superhero series like Superman, and as a result, the actor has been fancast in a variety of comic book roles, the most popular of which being Marvel's Human Torch and Wolverine. The Netflix docuseries Down to Earth with Zac Efron has proven that the actor's character traits are a good fit for the boy scout mentality of Clark Kent in the comics. Although Efron may pass for Clark in his late 20s, he may be too old at 35 for the role.

Two actors have emerged as fan favorites in the running if DC wishes to select a rookie who can grow with the role. David Corenswet, best known for his roles in Ryan Murphy's The Politician and Hollywood on Netflix, is a popular pick. The 29-year-old actor looks strikingly like Henry Cavill and would make a good replacement, adding his talent for portraying upbeat characters to the mix. Wolfgang Novogratz is the other actor that is often mistaken for Superman in fan fiction. Novogratz, who is only 25 years old, has yet to star in a major role, but Superman: Legacy may be his chance to shine.

The first weekend of The Super Mario Bros. Movie's release will break the box office record for all movies ever. Since the infamous failure of the 1993 film Super Mario Bros., which featured Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo as Mario and Luigi, Hollywood has shied away from translating the Mario games into feature films. In contrast, the new film featuring Chris Pratt as Mario, Charlie Day as Luigi, Anya Taylor-Joy as Peach, and Jack Black as Bowser released in theaters today thanks to a collaboration between Illumination Entertainment and Nintendo.

Deadline reports that the actors of the Super Mario Bros. Movie will be celebrating this weekend. The picture has already made more than $160 million overseas, putting it on track for a massive global total of $300 million by the end of the weekend. The final tally won't be known until the end of the week, but early estimates put the film's domestic gross at at $40 million, which would be 15 times more than the 1993 original's $20 million.
Movies based on video games have had some successes, such as 2001's Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and the Resident Evil franchise, but the genre has also had its fair share of flops. Attempts to adapt video games into live-action films have typically been received with critical skepticism and lackluster box office results. But things have started to turn around in recent years.

One of the genre's major hits in 2020 was Sonic the Hedgehog. The audience loved it, and it ended up becoming the third highest-grossing movie of the year. As a result, additional video game adaptations, such as Paramount+'s Halo series (which has been renewed for a second season) and 2022's No. 14 highest-grossing picture Uncharted, were able to find success in the marketplace.

The popular video game adaption has been brought forward by 2023 even farther. The post-apocalyptic HBO series The Last of Us began things out in January, and it quickly surpassed the audience of the Game of Thrones prequel series House of the Dragon in terms of total viewers. Here comes The Super Mario Bros. Movie with these flashy musical sequences to prove that the genre is here to stay.

 

Curious Refuge has created a remarkable AI mashup that reimagines the Lord of the Rings movies in the distinctive style of Wes Anderson, accompanied by an outstanding cast.

The Lord of the Rings trilogy captivated audiences and reignited interest in J.R.R. Tolkien's original material, crafting a fantasy world that has thrived for the past two decades. Subsequently, The Hobbit also received its own trilogy adaptation, and the franchise continues to find popularity with shows like Prime Video's Rings of Power. Concurrently, director Wes Anderson carved a niche for himself, presenting a unique yet unmistakable style that permeated all of his films, including The Grand Budapest Hotel, Moonrise Kingdom, and his upcoming project, Asteroid City.

Thanks to the innovative creators at Curious Refuge and the power of AI, we are now introduced to The Whimsical Fellowship, a delightful blend that envisions the Lord of the Rings movies through Anderson's directorial lens.

The trailer recreates the fantastical realm of Middle-earth, incorporating the steady camera shots and idiosyncrasies characteristic of Anderson's filmography. It also features a star-studded cast typical of Anderson's projects, with Timothée Chalamet as Frodo, Bill Murray as Gandalf, Tilda Swinton as Galadriel, Edward Norton as Aragorn, Adrian Brody as Legolas, and Jeff Goldblum as Elrond. Additionally, Willem Dafoe portrays Smeagol, while Owen Wilson's iconic "wow" soundbite gives voice to Sauron.

Could Wes Anderson Successfully Direct a Lord of the Rings Movie?

The Lord of the Rings films and Anderson's movies seem worlds apart, as the sweeping fantasy epics provide a distinct experience that differs from the dry, witty, and dramatic comedies typically associated with the director. However, one commonality shared by both is the stellar cast they assemble. Anderson is renowned for collaborating with a plethora of high-profile actors, many of whom make recurring appearances in his films. Similarly, The Lord of the Rings franchise boasts an ensemble of renowned performers, elevating several actors to prominence. Consequently, despite their tonal disparity, Anderson could potentially harness the talent associated with Lord of the Rings.

Anderson's films possess a distinctiveness that cinephiles can easily discern, even without prior knowledge of his involvement. While this quality makes for intriguing AI mashups, it also signifies that Anderson's style is inseparable from his own projects. He rarely ventures into works initiated by others, instead championing his original content and establishing his unique brand. The Lord of the Rings franchise possesses its own distinctive style, but it resides worlds apart from Anderson's artistic vision, as exemplified by director Peter Jackson's approach.

The Lord of the Rings franchise continues to expand with the upcoming second season of The Rings of Power and plans for additional films exploring the universe. While Anderson's distinct style may not align seamlessly with this world, incorporating his talents would likely elicit confusion rather than applause. Therefore, despite the ongoing development of The Lord of the Rings series, Anderson is unlikely to be involved in the project. 

 

Known for its adrenaline-fueled action sequences that consistently raise the bar with each film, the series has garnered immense popularity. Stahelski, who has helmed all four films, recently released John Wick: Chapter 4 to critical acclaim and impressive box office returns in March. However, even as the fourth film continues to screen in theaters, there is already a clamor for another installment.

In an interview with The Direct, Stahelski expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming fan interest surrounding John Wick 5. He acknowledged the immense love the franchise has received and graciously thanked the fans for their support and enthusiasm. While Stahelski has previously expressed his openness to creating another sequel, he believes it is important to allow the franchise to rest for a while, especially after he and Reeves poured their hearts into John Wick: Chapter 4. Stahelski's comments regarding John Wick 5 reflect his gratitude towards the fans:

"That's incredibly flattering. You have to be incredibly humble and go, ‘Thank you.’ And that's our response, ‘Thank you so much. Thank you so much for offering. Thank you so much for wanting it. Thank you so much for everything.'"

The John Wick franchise has seen each subsequent film surpass the box office performance of its predecessor. John Wick: Chapter 4 has currently grossed over $406 million worldwide, a significant increase from the first film's total earnings of $86 million worldwide. Lionsgate, the studio behind the franchise, is undoubtedly eager to continue capitalizing on this success with more sequels, a fact they have not been shy about. However, Stahelski and Reeves have acknowledged other factors that need to be taken into consideration.

Reeves, who is now 58 years old, may not be able to sustain the physically demanding role for much longer. He has performed the majority of his own stunts, including driving, shooting, and martial arts, which could become increasingly challenging as time goes on. Additionally, the conclusion of John Wick: Chapter 4 provides a fitting end for the character, considering the trail of death he has left behind. Introducing a fifth film could potentially disrupt the narrative and compromise the story's integrity, despite the fans' overwhelming desire for more.

Despite the uncertain future of John Wick 5, the franchise continues to expand. A prequel television series called The Continental, focusing on Winston's ascent to power as the manager of the eponymous underworld hotel, is set to release three episodes in September. Ana de Armas is also starring in a spinoff film called Ballerina, in which she portrays a female assassin, with Reeves making a brief appearance. Consequently, while the immediate prospects of John Wick 5 may be uncertain, the universe it has established still has more stories to offer. 

 

In the highly anticipated installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, a new character named Grace, played by Hayley Atwell, emerges as a pivotal figure. Director Christopher McQuarrie tantalizingly describes her as "an agent of chaos," raising questions about her true intentions. As the film reunites Tom Cruise's iconic IMF agent Ethan Hunt with his trusted team, portrayed by Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, and Rebecca Ferguson, Atwell's enigmatic addition injects intrigue into the storyline.

During an exclusive interview with Entertainment Weekly for their 2023 movie preview, McQuarrie shed light on Atwell's character, careful not to reveal too much. He disclosed that Grace is neither a spy nor a secret agent but embodies the essence of chaos. McQuarrie's words provide a glimpse into the enigma surrounding Grace:

"The less I tell you about Hayley Atwell, the better. Hayley represents a stranger in a strange land — she's somebody who does not come from this world, she's not a spy, she's not an agent. If anything, she's an agent of chaos, and is something of a random element that's thrown into this story."

Exploring the Intricacies of Hayley Atwell's Role in Mission: Impossible 7

Previously described by McQuarrie as a "destructive force of nature," Grace's allegiances remain uncertain, according to both the director and Atwell herself. By confirming that she is not a spy or secret agent, McQuarrie dismisses speculations about potential ties to existing characters. Grace represents an outsider, thrust into a realm of espionage, clandestine government operations, and the race against global catastrophe. While assumptions suggested Grace would serve as Ethan's latest love interest, McQuarrie's statements cast doubt on her true intentions, painting her as a classic femme fatale.

Regardless of her loyalties, Grace will actively participate in the franchise's signature stunts and exhilarating action sequences, despite lacking spy skills. Atwell revealed that she mastered daring feats such as racing cars, back-flipping over bridges, jumping backward off moving trains, and even ascending uphill in high heels while handcuffed to Cruise. With her ambiguous nature and willingness to embrace increasingly intense challenges, Hayley Atwell's Grace seems poised to make a significant impact in Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One. 

 

Excitement is building for Marvel Studios' highly anticipated Fantastic Four movie, and recent rumors about the cast have fans buzzing. A remarkable fan art has surfaced, depicting Margot Robbie as Sue Storm, igniting speculation about her potential role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Scheduled for a 2025 release, the Fantastic Four movie marks the long-awaited return of Marvel's First Family to the silver screen. With Matt Shakman, known for his work on WandaVision, at the helm as the director, the film's casting choices have become a subject of intense speculation. While initial reports had MCU Spider-Man trilogy director Jon Watts attached, Shakman now holds the responsibility of assembling a stellar cast, and rumors are circulating regarding the frontrunners for key roles. Among the latest whispers, Robbie's name has emerged as a contender for the role of Sue Storm. Capturing the imaginations of fans, an astonishing fan art has brought this possibility to life.

The fan art, shared on Instagram by digital artist @venomhology, showcases Robbie's transformation into Sue Storm, also known as the Invisible Woman of the Fantastic Four. 
 

In the artwork, Robbie's portrayal of Sue Storm is pitch-perfect, perfectly embodying the character's essence. However, there may be some challenges to overcome if she were to assume the role. Robbie has made a name for herself in the superhero genre through her portrayal of Harley Quinn in multiple DC movies. Her exceptional performance catapulted Harley Quinn to iconic status, and with her The Suicide Squad director, James Gunn, now steering the DC Universe, Robbie's return as Harley seems imminent. This potential commitment to DC could make her transition to Marvel Studios for the Fantastic Four project more complicated.
 

As the rumors surrounding the casting of Marvel's Fantastic Four continue to swirl, several actors have been linked to the project in the past year. Penn Badgley, Jodie Comer, Jason Segel, and Diego Luna are among the names that have surfaced as potential candidates for the lead roles. While the speculation has been rife, casting for the film is finally gaining momentum, accompanied by a fresh wave of Fantastic Four rumors.

According to recent reports, certain actors have allegedly received offers for roles in the MCU film. Margot Robbie is said to have been offered the role of Sue Storm, while Adam Driver is rumored to be in talks for Reed Richards. Although rumors suggest that Paul Mescal has passed on the opportunity to join the MCU as Johnny Storm, Robbie and Driver are reportedly solid contenders to spearhead Marvel's Fantastic Four. Should these rumors prove true, it would be a significant coup for the film, as both Robbie and Driver are highly regarded and acclaimed actors, adding a touch of gravitas to the superhero ensemble. 

  Fans eagerly anticipate an official announcement regarding the Fantastic Four cast. With filming slated to commence in January 2024, Marvel Studios will likely aim to finalize the cast selection this year. Given the team's significance to the future of the MCU, Marvel is expected to create a buzzworthy event around the cast reveal. Speculation points to the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con in July 2023 as a prime opportunity for Marvel to make this announcement, as the convention has traditionally been a platform for major Marvel revelations. If all goes according to plan, fans may get their first glimpse of the Fantastic Four's cast in just two short months. 

 

The latest trailer for the highly anticipated film Poor Things has unveiled a captivating glimpse into Emma Stone's portrayal of Bella Baxter, a remarkable character who undergoes a unique resurrection orchestrated by Willem Dafoe's Dr. Godwin Baxter. Directed by the renowned filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, this adaptation of Alasdir Gray's 1992 Scottish novel promises to deliver a fresh take on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

The recently released trailer offers viewers an intriguing peek into the world of Poor Things, shedding light on the central premise of a young woman, played by Stone, who is granted a second chance at life. Revived by the enigmatic Dr. Godwin Baxter, portrayed by Dafoe, Bella embarks on a quest to explore and comprehend the intricacies of the world she once knew. Along the way, she encounters Duncan Wedderburn, a lawyer played by Mark Ruffalo, and their unexpected connection sets the stage for a captivating narrative.

As the trailer unfolds, audiences are treated to a visual feast of vibrant colors and an impressive ensemble cast, leaving them eager to discover more about the film's storyline. While the teaser maintains an air of mystery surrounding the plot's specific details, it tantalizingly hints at Bella's journey of self-discovery and her determination to forge her own path.

Poor Things, helmed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is known for his distinctive style showcased in previous works such as the absurdist comedy The Lobster and the psychological horror The Killing of a Sacred Deer. The film promises to embrace a similar aesthetic, offering a thought-provoking blend of dark humor and insightful social commentary. Lanthimos' direction ensures that Stone's performance as Bella not only captivates audiences but also highlights the film's underlying feminist themes as she breaks free from societal constraints.

The trailer also provides a glimpse of potential conflict between Bella and Duncan, as evidenced by a striking scene in which she slaps him. This moment serves as a tantalizing hint at the intriguing dynamics that will unfold between the characters, adding an extra layer of complexity to the narrative.

Furthermore, fans of Emma Stone and Willem Dafoe will be pleased to know that Poor Things won't be their only collaboration under Lanthimos' direction. Their reunion is already in the works for the filmmaker's upcoming project, AND, where Dafoe's dedication to his craft led to multiple takes of Stone's character slapping him. However, for now, audiences can anticipate their on-screen chemistry in Poor Things, set to release on September 8.

As the release date draws near, Poor Things continues to generate excitement and intrigue among fans and movie enthusiasts. With its compelling storyline, talented cast, and the unique vision of Yorgos Lanthimos, this reimagining of Poor Things promises to be an enthralling exploration of life, identity, and the pursuit of freedom. 

 

Bruce Campbell, widely recognized for his role in the cult classic horror film "The Evil Dead," has recently taken a stand against what he perceives as a shameless marketing ploy employed by the 1989 slasher flick, "Intruder." Known for his collaboration with director Sam Raimi, Campbell rose to fame in the early 1980s and has since become an iconic figure in the horror genre.

It all started when a fan on Twitter drew attention to "Intruder," a movie centered around a group of overnight stock crew workers at a supermarket who find themselves hunted by a deranged killer. Campbell did not hold back in expressing his disappointment with the film's marketing strategy.

The movie's poster prominently features Campbell and Raimi's names, suggesting their significant involvement in the production. However, Campbell clarified that he only appears in a mere two-minute cameo at the end, while Raimi portrays a minor character, a random stock boy. The actor expressed his dismay, calling the poster's portrayal "shockingly misleading" and shedding light on the deceptive nature of movie marketing.

During the 1980s, Campbell and Raimi gained recognition and acclaim following the success of "The Evil Dead" and its sequel, "Evil Dead II" in 1987. These low-budget films garnered positive reviews, achieved moderate box office success, and eventually achieved cult status. Campbell and Raimi were becoming prominent names within the horror genre, which likely prompted the marketing executives behind "Intruder" to capitalize on their popularity and attract fans of the "Evil Dead" series.

While misleading marketing tactics persist in the industry, they are more commonly observed in smaller, direct-to-video films rather than major blockbusters. A prime example involves actors like Bruce Willis, who often feature prominently in the marketing materials for movies where they play supporting roles. In these instances, their involvement primarily serves to secure financing and distribution.

While the exact circumstances surrounding the marketing of "Intruder" remain unclear, it is plausible that Campbell and Raimi's association with the project played a crucial role in its production and subsequent distribution. Nevertheless, Campbell's recent call-out of the film highlights his unwillingness to tolerate misleading promotional strategies, even after all these years.

As the horror icon stands up against deceptive marketing practices, his voice serves as a reminder to the industry that honesty and transparency are crucial when presenting films to audiences. Campbell's dedication to preserving the integrity of the horror genre resonates with fans and sheds light on the need for responsible marketing in the film industry. 

 

In the upcoming film "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts," director Steven Caple Jr. reached out to veteran filmmaker Michael Bay for advice and insights into bringing the beloved franchise to life. As the latest installment takes the Transformers universe back to the 1990s, with Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and the introduction of the Maximals, Caple Jr. sought the expertise of Bay, who directed the first five Transformers movies and serves as a producer for the new film.

Caple Jr. acknowledged Bay's invaluable contribution in a recent interview with THR, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance from those who have previously walked the same creative path. Bay's extensive experience with the franchise and his proficiency in handling the intricate world of robots in disguise made him the ideal mentor for Caple Jr. In particular, the director sought advice on navigating the challenges of visual effects, a new territory for him in this large-scale production.

Reflecting on his interactions with Bay, Caple Jr. highlighted the learning curve he experienced and likened it to going through school again. As he dedicated his weekdays to preparing for the film, Caple Jr. utilized his weekends to glean knowledge from both the visual effects supervisor and Bay himself. The seasoned filmmaker shared hints and tips, assisting Caple Jr. in accomplishing specific goals and overcoming the hurdles of creating a visually stunning Transformers movie. Caple Jr. emphasized the significance of reaching out to those who have come before him, recognizing their valuable insights and the practical wisdom gained from their experiences.

The new installment, "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts," marks a departure from the smaller scale of its predecessor, "Bumblebee," which garnered critical acclaim as the only film in the franchise to earn positive reviews. While Bay's influence on the series remains evident as a producer, the absence of his bombastic directing style in "Bumblebee" brought a refreshing change to the franchise and showcased a focus on a more intimate and character-driven narrative.

With "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts," Caple Jr. aims to strike a balance between the action-packed spectacle that fans have come to expect from the franchise and the dynamic character struggles he showcased in his previous work, such as "Creed II." As the film promises to introduce the villainous Unicron, a planet-consuming Transformer posing the largest threat to date, Caple Jr. will embrace the challenge of delivering Bay-level action while infusing his unique directorial perspective. 
 
Fans eagerly await the release of "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" in June, where they will witness Caple Jr.'s creative vision and the culmination of his collaboration with Michael Bay. 

 

Focus Features has released the highly-anticipated trailer for "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3," signaling the return of the cherished cast to embark on a remarkable journey through Greece.

The latest installment in the franchise, which originated with the 2002 box office sensation "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" written by and starring Nia Vardalos, showcases the iconic Portokalos family in a new chapter of their lives. Following the initial film's immense success, the story continued with the short-lived 2003 series "My Big Fat Greek Life" and a first film sequel in 2016.

Just four months ahead of the September 8 release, Focus Features shared the official trailer, offering a glimpse into the heartwarming narrative. The trailer opens with the revelation of Toula's father's passing, portrayed by the late Michael Constantine in the previous films. This event sets the stage for a grand family reunion in Greece, promising to further strengthen the already deep bonds of Toula's expansive and enchanting Greek-American family.

Undoubtedly, the most significant aspect of the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" trailer lies in the return of the beloved cast. With the exception of Constantine, several key Portokalos family members are set to reprise their roles. Nia Vardalos and John Corbett resume their characters as Toula Portokalos and Ian Miller, respectively. Lainie Kazan returns as Toula's mother, alongside Andrea Martin as her aunt and Elena Kampouris as her daughter Paris, who was introduced in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2." Notably, even former NSYNC member Joey Fatone joins the ensemble as Toula's cousin Angelo.

While the core cast reunites, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" also introduces new faces representing an extended family residing in Greece. A peculiar character, vaguely connected as a "cousin," adds an intriguing dynamic to the narrative. Moreover, Elias Kacavas portrays Aristotle, a love interest for Paris, whose shared history with her sparks further intrigue and exploration.

The trailer hints at a tapestry of interwoven storylines, delving into the family's quest to discover their ancestral origins. Toula embarks on a search for her father's old friends, while Paris navigates a blossoming romance, among other captivating developments. The cast demonstrates unwavering commitment, infusing their performances with the trademark sparkling humor that has endeared audiences to the franchise.

"My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" promises an unforgettable cinematic experience as it reunites viewers with cherished characters and introduces them to a new chapter of the Portokalos family's rich tapestry. With its heartwarming narrative, comedic observations, and the stunning backdrop of Greece, the film is poised to captivate audiences once again, continuing the legacy of one of America's most beloved families. 

 

In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Mandalorian director Dave Filoni sheds light on the distinctive qualities that set Grand Admiral Thrawn apart from other iconic antagonists in the Star Wars universe. As the ruthless Imperial strategist who originated in the old Expanded Universe and later transitioned into Star Wars canon through Star Wars Rebels, Thrawn is poised to take on a prominent role as the primary antagonist in multiple Disney+ TV shows set in the New Republic era, culminating in an epic movie event.

Filoni discusses Thrawn's rich history in the now non-canon Star Wars Expanded Universe, emphasizing his determination to pay homage to the character's origins. He acknowledges Thrawn's status as an iconic villain, primarily due to his deviation from the archetype of helmet-clad, lightsaber-wielding antagonists that have dominated the series. Filoni commends Timothy Zahn's boldness in creating a character devoid of traditional Jedi abilities, instead focusing on Thrawn's intellectual prowess and military acumen as his defining traits.

Rather than relying on Force powers or lightsaber combat like Darth Vader or Emperor Palpatine, Thrawn's brilliance as a cunning tactician sets him apart. Filoni highlights Thrawn's ability to outmaneuver adversaries and anticipate their moves, making him a formidable and unpredictable opponent. Thrawn's appearances in Star Wars Rebels have offered viewers a glimpse of his capabilities, but Filoni hints at the character's untapped potential, which will be fully explored in the forthcoming Ahsoka series and the highly anticipated Mandalorian movie.

Filoni further reveals Thrawn's critical role during the New Republic era, affirming his intention to showcase the character's strategic brilliance. The trailer for Ahsoka references Thrawn as the "Heir to the Empire," alluding to the book trilogy where the character was introduced. As the overarching villain in the connected New Republic shows, Thrawn's leadership of the Imperial Remnant and his unmatched military might promise an enthralling narrative.

Filoni's commitment to preserving the essence of Thrawn's character in the live-action adaptation is evident. By diverging from the Sith Lord archetype embodied by Vader and Palpatine, Thrawn's unique qualities and resourcefulness will be his greatest assets. As audiences eagerly anticipate The Mandalorian movie and the future of Star Wars, it is clear that Thrawn will bring a fresh perspective to the franchise, redefining the role of villains in a galaxy far, far away. 

 

In a recent development, director James Gunn has provided an update on the friendship between Thor and Rocket in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it's nothing short of heartbreaking. The duo, whose bond was established in Avengers: Infinity War and developed further in Avengers: Endgame, continued to be close friends even after the conclusion of the Infinity Saga, as evidenced in Thor: Love and Thunder.

However, when a fan reached out to James Gunn on Twitter, inquiring about the status of Thor and Rocket's friendship during the events of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, the response was disheartening. Gunn's answer indicated that the two characters are no longer in contact with each other, leaving fans to wonder about the reasons behind this separation.

Although Gunn did not provide any additional details about the circumstances leading to the break in their friendship, it seems reasonable to assume that personal issues have played a role. Both Thor and Rocket have experienced significant challenges and hardships, which could have contributed to the strain on their relationship.

Adding to the melancholy, James Gunn's exclusive commitment to DC Universe following Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 means he will no longer have creative control over the future of Rocket and the other cosmic heroes within the Marvel Studios realm. Nevertheless, considering the popularity of the characters and the potential for storytelling in the Multiverse Saga, there remains a possibility that Marvel Studios will revisit their friendship in the future.

Fans can take solace in the fact that there are already a few projects in the pipeline where Rocket and Thor could potentially reunite. The ongoing battle against Kang the Conqueror in Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars presents an opportunity for the beloved duo to work together again. As one of the most beloved pairs of heroes in the MCU, the anticipation for their reunion is undoubtedly high.

The post-credits scene in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 confirms that Rocket and his new team will continue to be active in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While it remains unclear when and where Rocket will resurface, it is highly unlikely that Marvel Studios will bring an end to the Guardians of the Galaxy sub-franchise, given its immense popularity. However, it may take some time before the next blockbuster featuring the team hits the big screen. 

 

According to a fresh report, Tom Cruise, the star of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, is reportedly unhappy that Oppenheimer and Barbie have managed to secure crucial screens that were originally intended for his film. This revelation sets the stage for a fierce competition at the box office.

The report suggests that Tom Cruise, who portrays Ethan Hunt in Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, is feeling a sense of frustration as Oppenheimer and Barbie snatch away valuable screen time from his highly anticipated movie. The release of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, which marks the beginning of the end for Cruise's character, is scheduled for July 12, 2023. However, just one week later, on July 21, the eagerly awaited films Oppenheimer and Barbie will hit theaters.

The latest report from Puck sheds light on Cruise's anger over Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One losing out on important IMAX screens, many of which have been allocated to Oppenheimer. Although Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One will have an IMAX run during its first week of release, Oppenheimer will dominate all IMAX screens for the subsequent three weeks. Additionally, Mission: Impossible will have to face stiff competition from Barbie, which is also set to open on the same day as Oppenheimer.

The article further emphasizes the sheer number of high-profile movies slated for release throughout the summer season. According to the report, there will be a major film hitting theaters almost every week until mid-August, with Fast X having premiered two weeks ago. Apart from Oppenheimer and Barbie, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One will find itself in direct competition with Haunted Mansion, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Meg 2: The Trench, and Gran Turismo, all of which are set to be released within a month of the latest Mission: Impossible installment.

The intense competition faced by Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One presents a challenging situation for the film. Despite being the franchise's longest-running entry and signaling the beginning of its conclusion, the movie's box office performance is bound to be influenced by the presence of other releases during its theatrical run. This is particularly notable in the case of Oppenheimer, whose dominance over IMAX screens could significantly impact the performance of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One.

Given the highly competitive summer season for major blockbusters, it is understandable that Cruise would feel frustrated by the loss of IMAX screens to Oppenheimer. This situation also highlights the abundance of major film releases expected in the coming months, which may make it challenging for audiences to keep up with each significant premiere. Only time will tell the extent to which Oppenheimer, Barbie, and other high-profile films will affect the box office success of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One. 

 

Alan Ritchson, the Fast X star known for his role as Aimes in the franchise, revealed an amusing encounter with Vin Diesel where he admitted to never having seen any of the Fast & Furious movies before joining the cast. Ritchson, also recognized for his portrayal of Jack Reacher in the Reacher series on Prime Video, shared this anecdote during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show.

Recalling the conversation, Ritchson admitted his lack of familiarity with the franchise to Diesel, saying, "Hey man, I hadn't really watched any of them. I watched the first one in high school, and now that I got the part, I've seen them all, and I just love what you've been doing with the last two decades." While Ritchson initially worried about his confession, Diesel responded graciously, expressing his appreciation. Reflecting on the situation, Ritchson acknowledged his own folly, recognizing the significance of the Fast & Furious series in Diesel's life and comparing it to his dedication to the Reacher series.

The Fast & Furious franchise has undergone significant evolution over the years, as Ritchson would have discovered had he ventured into Fast X armed only with his knowledge of the original film from 2001. What began as a grounded narrative centered around characters like Brian O'Conner and Dom Toretto has since transformed into a spectacle of extravagant heists and daring rescues. The series has even ventured into space in its most recent installment, F9, featuring the unforgettable moment when Roman and Tej embarked on a cosmic adventure.

Moreover, the franchise has increasingly emphasized the importance of Dom's extended family, highlighting the unbreakable bond between his crew members. While earlier films such as 2 Fast 2 Furious and The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift focused on different characters, their storylines eventually intertwined with those of Dom's crew in subsequent entries, lending a deeper significance to their ultimate culmination in Fast X.

Although Fast X marks the beginning of the final chapter in the Fast & Furious franchise, fans can still anticipate an array of thrilling action sequences yet to come. Ritchson's character, Aimes, is likely to return following a cliffhanger ending in Fast X. While Ritchson may not have been well-versed in the Fast & Furious universe before joining the cast, his newfound appreciation for the series is evident and is expected to carry through to future films.