Lilo & Stitch Lives Again: A Heartfelt Remake That Finds New Meaning in Ohana

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The 2025 iteration brings fresh life to the beloved 2002 animated classic, blending warm Hawaiian sunsets with CGI alien mayhem. While the story has undergone some tweaks—certain characters have vanished, and a few gags have been traded in for drama—the spirit of Ohana remains intact.

The Performances

At the centre of it all is newcomer Maia Kealoha, who gives a genuinely touching performance as Lilo. She captures the quirky, misunderstood essence of the original character with charm and emotional depth. However, it’s Sydney Elise Elizabeth Agudong as Nani who truly shines. Her portrayal of a young woman juggling grief, responsibility, and sisterhood is pitch-perfect—her chemistry with Kealoha anchors the film emotionally.

Chris Sanders reprises his iconic voice role as Stitch, and it’s like he never left. Stitch is just as chaotic and loveable as ever. Billy Magnussen brings unexpected heart to Agent Pleakley, while Hannah Waddingham and Zach Galifianakis add some solid weight to the supporting cast.

And let’s not forget Tia Carrere—seeing her return in a new role (albeit brief) is a nostalgic touch that fans will appreciate. It’s a full-circle moment that acknowledges the past while moving forward.

The Story & Direction

This is not a shot-for-shot remake—and that’s a good thing. Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes’s screenplay expands Lilo and Nani’s backstory, giving the sisters’ bond more narrative room to breathe. Some might miss the zanier moments of the original, but the emotional core hits the same beats. The theme of family—of being broken, different, and still finding love—is as potent as ever.

That said, the focus has definitely shifted toward the human drama. The alien antics take a back seat to familial tensions, which may feel like a misstep for fans expecting more extraterrestrial chaos. Notably, the villainous Captain Gantu is absent, and some design choices—like Jumba and Pleakley appearing in human form—were clearly budget-driven compromises.

Visuals & Music
Visually, the film is a treat. Filming in Hawaii certainly doesn’t hurt, and the cinematography capitalises on the location’s natural beauty. The CGI is decent, though Stitch occasionally dips into the uncanny valley. The musical score wisely retains the charm of the original, blending traditional Hawaiian sounds with emotional orchestration. It’s nostalgic but refreshed.

Final Thoughts
Lilo & Stitch isn’t a perfect remake, but it is a meaningful one. It doesn’t try to replicate the original beat-for-beat, nor should it. Instead, it takes the spirit of the 2002 classic and reimagines it for a new generation—one that might be meeting Lilo and Stitch for the very first time.

If you’re looking for a carbon copy, best stick with the animated version. But if you’re open to a new take—one that’s sincere, respectful, and deeply human—this version is worth the watch. It’ll make you laugh, tear up, and remember why Ohana means family.

Verdict: A warm, heartfelt remake that doesn’t always hit the mark, but gets the big things right.
3 out of 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ ☆

Cruise Control: Mission Impossible’s Grand Finale is a Near-Perfect Ride

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After nearly thirty years of high-octane thrills, globe-trotting espionage, and death-defying stunts, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning positions itself as the swan song to one of the most successful action franchises in cinematic history. Directed once again by Christopher McQuarrie and co-written with Erik Jendresen, this eighth entry picks up right where Dead Reckoning Part One left off, diving headfirst into a tense, AI-fuelled battle for the fate of humanity.

And what a ride it is – even if it doesn’t entirely stick the landing as a “finale.”

Plot & Premise: High Stakes and Haunting Past

Tom Cruise returns as the indefatigable Ethan Hunt, now racing to locate and neutralise an advanced artificial intelligence known only as “The Entity” – a rogue digital force that’s penetrated intelligence networks across the globe. But he’s not alone in this fight. With loyal allies (Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg), shadowy enemies, and a ghost from his past lurking in the shadows, Hunt’s mission becomes as emotionally charged as it is dangerous.

The narrative successfully threads together personal stakes with global urgency, all while keeping audiences guessing. It’s classic Mission: Impossible – slick, smart, and deeply entertaining.

Action & Cinematography: Big-Scale Spectacle

From the opening minutes, The Final Reckoning wastes no time getting into gear. The film clocks in at just over three hours, yet it barely feels it. The pacing is tight, and the action is relentless without becoming exhausting.

Standout set pieces include a jaw-dropping underwater submarine sequence packed with tension and artistry, and a breathless bi-plane climax that may very well go down as one of the franchise’s greatest spectacles. These moments – masterfully shot and edited – showcase why Mission: Impossible remains the gold standard for blockbuster choreography.

However, for longtime fans who have grown accustomed to seeing Tom Cruise perform gravity-defying stunts with minimal CGI, there’s a bittersweet shift. Approximately half of the film’s major action sequences rely on noticeable green screen work – a sensible decision perhaps, considering Cruise’s age and the escalating danger of such stunts, but still a departure from the raw, real-world danger that once defined the series.

Performance & Emotional Depth

Angela Bassett is a revelation as the U.S. President – authoritative, composed, and refreshingly unburdened by the usual gendered tropes. Her performance, alongside a script that gives more space to emotional nuance, provides some of the most heartfelt and grounded moments the franchise has ever offered.

Hayley Atwell continues to prove her worth in the MI universe, while Ving Rhames and Simon Pegg provide the familiar camaraderie and comic relief that’s become a beloved staple.

These character-driven beats elevate The Final Reckoning beyond a standard action flick. It’s not just about the mission anymore – it’s about legacy, sacrifice, and the cost of doing what’s right.

The Final Verdict: Epic, But Not Final

Visually stunning, emotionally rich, and brimming with reverence for its legacy, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is everything fans could ask for – except closure.

Despite its title, the film doesn’t deliver the sense of conclusive finality one might expect. In fact, it often feels more like a curtain call than a last hurrah, leaving the door ever so slightly ajar for future missions. Whether this is Cruise’s true goodbye or simply the end of a chapter remains to be seen.

Regardless, when the credits rolled, I found myself filled with admiration – not just for this film, but for the franchise as a whole. Since 1996, Mission: Impossible has consistently raised the bar for blockbuster cinema. If this is the end, it’s one hell of a way to go out.

Rating: ★★★☆ (3 out of 5 stars)
Director: Christopher McQuarrie
Starring: Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Henry Czerny, Angela Bassett

Meet Bud Rebel: The Indie Filmmaker and Podcast Host Shaping the Future of Entertainment

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Bud Rebel is not your typical filmmaker. With a career that spans nearly two decades, he has forged a distinctive path through the entertainment industry as an actor, director, writer, producer, podcast host, and entrepreneur. His multifaceted talents and bold approach to storytelling have earned him a reputation as one of independent cinema’s most intriguing voices.

Rebel’s cinematic journey includes two notable feature films: All Screwed Up (2009) and The Undead (2023). All Screwed Up, a gritty look at life’s unpredictable twists, found success in the indie film community and resonated with audiences on streaming platforms worldwide. His more recent film, The Undead, has drawn attention for its powerful and authentic portrayal of mental illness, woven seamlessly into the storyline. The film’s unflinching look at complex mental health themes has sparked important conversations and earned praise for its emotional depth and realism.

Always exploring new ways to tell stories, Rebel recently completed production on Seduction, an original podcast drama set to launch in 2025. Featuring a stellar cast, the project promises to push the boundaries of audio storytelling with its compelling narrative and cinematic scope. Though full details are still under wraps, early word suggests Seduction will be another bold and captivating addition to Rebel’s growing body of work.

In addition to his feature-length projects, Rebel has written and produced over a dozen short films, including Serial Killer (2023), Restaurant Return (2023), and Uncle Sid (2024). These shorts, many of which are listed on IMDbPro, showcase his range and ability to distil big ideas into compact, emotionally resonant stories that linger long after the credits roll.

Rebel also brings his sharp intellect and curious mind to The Bud Rebel Show, a bi-weekly podcast where he sits down with a diverse range of guests, including actors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and bestselling authors. The show is available on major platforms including iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Notable guests have included Jeremy Richardson (Yellowstone), Vincent M. Ward (The Walking Dead), Jeffrey Allen (Beast Games $10M winner), Bourke Floyd (Dawson’s Creek), Jack Cook (The Private Eye), Ashley Auguillard (Curb Your Enthusiasm), and bestselling author Dr Samantha Harte, among others. Each episode is a deep dive into the lives and minds of people making waves in their respective industries.

In 2024, Rebel’s unique contributions to film, media, and entrepreneurship were recognised when he was named one of the Top Twenty Entrepreneurs by Deluxe Version magazine. The honour reflects not only his creative achievements but also his relentless drive to innovate and inspire across multiple platforms.

Recently, Rebel sat down for an in-depth interview with FilmCentral magazine, where he shared insights into his creative process, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and what’s next for him as he continues to push boundaries and champion original storytelling. Here’s what went down:

1. Can you tell us about your latest project, Seduction?

Seduction is a powerful and original audio drama that brings the listener into a world full of the excitement of addiction, as well as the consequences that can occur during this dark and twisted journey. It’s a gripping tale of morality tested by passion, following the highs and lows of Tony meeting Maria.

2. What was it like working with your producers, crew, and incredible cast on this production? 

We had an incredible team, such as Mikeala Phillips and Mert Ozcan (The Record House), who could see exactly how the story needed to be told and translate it perfectly into sound. They worked with me and the cast to bring the script to life, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for audiences to hear it soon!

3. What did you find difficult and/or enjoyable about creating for a podcast, an audio-only medium?

Sound was an interesting challenge, as we had to create and depict a visual representation of the story for the audience, but one that they could only hear… without the use of elaborate sets, lighting, makeup, or set design. It was a different experience creating for this platform, and we got down to business right away, moving quickly.

4. What’s challenging about bringing a script to life? 

Bringing a script to life is challenging because it’s not just about filming what’s written, it’s about turning words and one’s writing into real emotions and cinematic moments. You must guide a team, make tough decisions, and solve problems every day, all while ensuring the heart of the story remains at the forefront.

5. Where do you draw your inspiration from for your stories?

My inspiration for writing my stories comes from my own life experiences and the interesting characters I meet along the way.

6. What rules or conventions in filmmaking do you personally choose to ignore – and why?

Great question, convention is the rule I try to ignore in my filmmaking! I want the viewer to be entertained through a whole different lens – one that features unique characters who embark on unconventional journeys and are more relatable.

7. Examining your body of work, a noticeable thread of deeper meanings, conversations, or morals is evident within your stories, often presented in an entertaining or thought-provoking manner. Is this an intentional approach, and what draws you to weaving these kinds of themes into your work?

Yes, I believe a story should draw a viewer into thinking about things they may not have looked at without becoming preachy. In some way, I hope my films make the world a better place for those who view them and their loved ones. If something I create can spark conversation, relatability, or even give a voice to diverse situations that others feel seen by, that’s rewarding.

8. Which of your past films was the most fun to make, and why? 

It would probably be “All Screwed Up” because it was my first journey into this world which was only a dream before!

9. Do you have plans for another film? What’s next?

I believe “A Hell Can Wait” is an audio drama. It’s big, bold, and will take the listener to a whole new universe. God willing, they will never forget.

10. If someone were going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?

A younger version of Tom Cruise. Seriously, though, I’d leave that to the Director though.

11. Tell us about anything else interesting! 

Creating art is so rewarding because one’s blueprint is left out there, and even if it’s covered up, a bit of your deeper self is still revealed for all the world to see forever.

Actress. Director. Mother. Advocate. Brooke Nevin Redefines Success in Hollywood’s Evolving Landscape

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Acclaimed actress Brooke Nevin is once again making waves in the film industry with her latest performance in F* Marry Kill*, the latest genre-bending release from Lionsgate and Buzzfeed Studios. This comedy-thriller hybrid is as smart as it is suspenseful, but it’s Nevin’s dynamic portrayal of Valerie—the overprotective older sister of Lucy Hale’s lead character—that anchors the film’s emotionally charged wit. Equal parts intense, hilarious, and heartbreakingly human, Valerie is a character only an actress of Nevin’s calibre could bring to life with such charisma and nuance.

Nevin’s role in F* Marry Kill* is more than a performance—it’s a masterclass in genre navigation. “Valerie’s intensity just jumped off the page,” Nevin said in a recent exclusive interview with StarCentral Magazine. “She’s messy, paranoid, and totally convinced she’s the lead in her own crime drama. That contradiction was so fun to explore.” The film deftly blends psychological tension with biting humour, and Nevin delivers both with precision, portraying a woman driven by love and fear in equal measure.

A Career Built on Complexity and Creative Range

Brooke Nevin has long been known for her eclectic body of work. From sci-fi staples like The 4400 to crime procedurals like CSI, and award-winning dark comedies like Call Me Fitz, her career has been defined by a refusal to be typecast. With F* Marry Kill*, she continues that legacy—this time pushing deeper into the realms of psychological thriller and dark comedy.

“The diversity of genres I’ve worked in has always kept me creatively fulfilled,” Nevin reflects. “I tend to gravitate towards characters who are the chaos, who are funny because of how intensely they care.” That ethos is visible in Valerie, who barrels through the film with a blend of obsession, sincerity, and deep emotional vulnerability.

The Artist Behind the Actress

But Nevin is far more than just an actress. Her creative expression transcends the screen—she’s also a skilled photographer and budding director. While filming F* Marry Kill*, she found herself drawn to the behind-the-scenes energy, often watching playback and observing lens choices. “Once you’ve peeked behind the curtain, you can’t really go back,” she said. “Even when I’m not directing, I’m learning.”

These experiences enrich her performances, offering a cinematic awareness that adds depth to every scene she inhabits. It’s this multi-dimensional artistry that sets Nevin apart in a competitive industry.

Motherhood, Motivation, and a Message of Authenticity

Adding another layer to her dynamic life, Nevin recently became a mother—an experience she says has profoundly reshaped her outlook on storytelling. “Being a new parent teaches you that no one has it all figured out,” she explains. “It’s made me even more interested in playing flawed, deeply real characters.”

Motherhood has also shifted the types of projects that resonate with her. Nevin is now drawn to stories that embody resilience, vulnerability, and emotional complexity—qualities she sees reflected in both her professional life and personal growth. “I want to tell stories my son will be proud of—ones that say something real about who we are and how we live.”

Philanthropy Rooted in Purpose

Nevin’s commitment to impact extends well beyond Hollywood. She is a passionate advocate for A Sense of Home, a nonprofit that helps former foster youth establish stable living environments. She also contributes to The Heart Gallery, using her photography to help foster children find adoptive families.

For Nevin, giving back is about aligning talent with need. “Start with something you’re already good at,” she advises. “Your creativity can be a powerful tool for good.”

Foundations in Poise and Passion

Nevin’s journey began with ballet and a one-time foray into pageantry—experiences that taught her the value of discipline and poise, even in the face of uncertainty. “Being on stage young helped build a ‘performance muscle,’” she recalls. “It taught me to focus on the process, not the pressure.”

This foundational mindset has served her well in an ever-changing industry. Whether she’s diving into a new genre or juggling motherhood with a busy creative schedule, Nevin embodies resilience, adaptability, and joy in her pursuit of craft.

A Life in Creative Seasons

Nevin offers a refreshingly honest take on balance: “The idea of a perfectly balanced life is a myth. Life moves in seasons—some are for planting, others for nurturing or harvesting. The key is to embrace each one fully.”

It’s this blend of realism and optimism that makes Brooke Nevin not only a standout talent in Hollywood but a powerful voice for authenticity, creativity, and compassion in an increasingly complex world.

As F* Marry Kill* continues to win over audiences with its smart storytelling and unique tone, one thing is clear—Brooke Nevin is at the peak of her artistic power, and she’s only just getting started.

Following Cannes Win for Iranian Director Jafar Panahi, Upcoming Aussie Film “Fireworks” Issues a Powerful Warning

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Photo Credit: Julia Firak

As global interest in Iranian stories surges, Fireworks explores trauma, exile, and the fragility of justice, made in Australia but resonating worldwide.

Just days after Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just An Accident won the Palme d’Or at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a new Australian-made feature is building momentum — inspired by the global recognition of Iranian cinema as not just political, but universal.

Fireworks, directed and co-written by Ali Vaziri, an Iranian-born filmmaker living in Australia, is a bold psychological drama rooted in real refugee experience. “Panahi’s win is a turning point,” says Vaziri. “It tells us something important: these stories are not just about Iran anymore — they’re about all of us. The same threats to truth, freedom, and justice are creeping closer to home in the West. Fireworks is my way of sounding the alarm.”

Photo Credit: Julia Firak

Set in a remote Australian town, Fireworks follows two close friends — both former political refugees — whose quiet life unravels during a weekend celebration when the past reappears in the form of a suspected war criminal. Over one day, in one house, tension builds toward an unthinkable moral choice.

It’s a film about trauma, complicity, loyalty and vengeance — but it’s also a film about how fragile peace really is, even in countries like Australia. With authentic Farsi and English dialogue and a minimalist, intimate setting, Fireworks delivers a contained but emotionally explosive story.

The cast features a talented ensemble of Iranian-Australian actors, including Keivaan Askari, Rina Mousavi, Madi Dezhbod, and Baha Jamali — Keivaan and Rina were involved in the critically acclaimed Australian-Iranian feature Shayda, Australia’s critically acclaimed entry to Sundance and the Academy Awards.

The film is produced by Yolandi Franken (Streets of Colour, Carmen & Bolude), and co-written by Nick Bleszynski, known for his work in both narrative and investigative storytelling. Filming will take place in Wiseman’s Ferry, NSW — a regional town whose quiet natural beauty mirrors the story’s haunting emotional undercurrent.

Photo Credit: Julia Firak

“This isn’t just a story about Iran. It’s a warning,” says Franken. “The erosion of truth, the silencing of dissent, the moral collapse that begins with looking away — these are themes that now ring loud in Western democracies.”

With the Cannes spotlight now firmly on Iranian voices and stories of resistance, Fireworks arrives at exactly the right moment — as a uniquely Australian contribution to a global conversation.

The film is currently seeking final-stage investment and community partnerships ahead of production later this year, with plans for international festival submission and a theatrical release followed by digital and broadcast distribution.

To request an investor pack or partnership proposal:

Yolandi Franken
Producer – Fireworks
yolandi@frankendipity.com
0404 385 988

Clown in a Cornfield Movie Review: Bloody, Bold, and Brutally Entertaining

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From the producers of Smile and director Eli Craig (Tucker and Dale vs. Evil) comes Clown in a Cornfield—a blood-soaked, tongue-in-cheek slasher that surprises more than it should. Based on Adam Cesare’s 2020 novel of the same name, this adaptation straddles the line between horror and humour with just enough confidence to keep audiences engaged, entertained, and slightly on edge.

Set in a once-thriving Midwestern town now well past its prime, the story revolves around the urban legend of Frendo the Clown. When local teens start vanishing and meeting gloriously grisly fates, it quickly becomes clear that this red-nosed menace isn’t just a bedtime story gone wrong. What follows is a tension-filled rollercoaster that’s equal parts scream-inducing and laugh-out-loud funny.

At first glance, Clown in a Cornfield plays out like your typical low-budget teen horror flick—complete with all the familiar genre tropes: the scream queen, the reluctant hero, the overprotective parent, the out-of-touch townsfolk. But around the half-hour mark, the film finds its rhythm, and from that point on, it’s a different beast altogether.

Eli Craig and co-writer Carter Blanchard deliver a script that’s sharper than expected. Yes, the dialogue occasionally veers into cheesy territory, and the pacing early on can feel a bit too by-the-numbers. But once the horror and humour begin to blend, the film clicks into gear, becoming a self-aware and surprisingly witty entry into the slasher canon.

Katie Douglas leads the charge, and while she initially leans into every cliché the genre demands of a scream queen, she manages to evolve beyond the archetype. By the film’s climax, she owns the screen with a compelling presence and earns her final-girl stripes with ease. She also shares strong on-screen chemistry with Aaron Abrams, who plays the fatherly figure. Despite some intentionally corny moments, Abrams brings a warmth and likeability that anchors the story’s emotional core.

Supporting cast members, including Carson MacCormac and Kevin Durand, round out the ensemble well. And while the acting is occasionally inconsistent, it never dips far enough to derail the overall experience.

Visually, the film revels in its chaos. The cornfield setting is used to atmospheric effect, giving scenes a claustrophobic, maze-like quality that enhances the suspense. The kill sequences are inventive, gory, and just outrageous enough to draw both gasps and giggles. Rather than leaning into cruelty, the film opts for cartoonish excess—an approach that feels far more satisfying in a genre so often steeped in bleak brutality.

What sets Clown in a Cornfield apart isn’t just its colourful carnage, but its ability to balance fun with fear. There’s a surprising amount of heart buried beneath the bloodshed, and the characters, while initially drawn with broad strokes, grow in meaningful ways. The film calls out its own tropes, often subverting expectations in a way that feels fresh without being smugly meta.

The mystery at the film’s core isn’t groundbreaking, and the “twist” doesn’t exactly knock your socks off, but it does enough to keep the momentum going. What’s more important is that the journey getting there is far more enjoyable than the trailer suggests.

Final Verdict:

Clown in a Cornfield isn’t reinventing the slasher wheel—and frankly, it doesn’t need to. What it delivers is a fast-paced, gory, and surprisingly clever horror-comedy that knows exactly what it is. With memorable kills, a strong central performance from Katie Douglas, and a script that balances tension with humour, it stands out from the crowd of forgettable horror clones.

If you’re a fan of Scream, Happy Death Day, or anything in the vein of old-school slashers with a self-aware twist, this is one cornfield worth getting lost in.

Final Thoughts:

A riotous, blood-soaked romp that’s far more fun than it has any right to be. Just don’t watch it alone in the dark—or near a cornfield.

Rating: ★★★½ (3.5/5)

Ryan Reynolds Champions Nature’s Misfits in Hilarious New Docuseries Underdogs

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Move over, lions and penguins — it’s time for the oddballs to shine.

Ryan Reynolds is swapping Deadpool’s red suit for something a bit more khaki as he lends his voice to Underdogs, a new five-part docuseries celebrating the natural world’s unsung heroes. Premiering 16 June on Disney+, the series is a joint effort from Reynolds’ Emmy® Award-winning Maximum Effort and Wildstar Films, the BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning team behind some of the world’s most stunning wildlife documentaries.

But don’t expect your usual slow-motion lion pounce or majestic whale breach. This time, the spotlight belongs to nature’s Z-listers — the awkward, underrated, and often overlooked creatures who prove that survival doesn’t require good looks or graceful moves, just pure ingenuity and a whole lot of hustle.

Narrated with Reynolds’ Signature Wit

Reynolds, known for his razor-sharp humour, is the perfect guide through this wild world of unlikely legends. Underdogs dives headfirst into the fascinating (and frequently gross) lives of animals that typically don’t get the red carpet treatment. Think glow-in-the-dark butt-grubs in a cave in New Zealand, bizarre mating rituals, and some of the most questionable parenting strategies ever caught on camera.

“Getting to work with National Geographic on Underdogs was a dream come true,” said Reynolds. “Mostly because I can finally watch a project of ours with my children. Technically, they saw Deadpool & Wolverine but I don’t think they absorbed much while covering their eyes and ears and screaming for two hours.”

Each episode of Underdogs focuses on a different wild skillset — from strange superpowers to deceptive trickery, all the way to survival techniques that would make Bear Grylls think twice.

A Feast for the Eyes (and Ears)

The show features mind-blowing footage from the world’s top wildlife cinematographers, including scenes that have never been filmed before. One highlight? A glowing cave full of mucus-covered larvae that light up like a dodgy nightclub under UV lights. It’s gross. It’s mesmerising. It’s everything a nature doc should be.

On top of the visuals, the soundtrack absolutely slaps. Award-winning composer Harry Gregson-Williams (you know, from Shrek and The Martian) scores the series, while Green Day delivers the official theme song — fittingly titled “Underdog”. The song debuts in the official trailer, roaring like a wild anthem for every creature who’s ever felt like they were picked last for team sports.

The soundtrack, Underdogs (Original Series Soundtrack), drops on 13 June via Hollywood Records. And if you’re a fan of Green Day, you’ll be glad to know the track is also featured on the deluxe edition of their latest album, Saviors.

More Than Laughs — It’s Clever Science Too

While Underdogs has plenty of cheeky moments, it’s not all for laughs. The series highlights the resilience, intelligence and mind-blowing adaptations of animals that keep the ecosystem ticking. Forget fame — these critters are the real MVPs of the natural world.

So, whether you’re a nature nerd, a Green Day fan, or just in it for Ryan Reynolds’ running commentary on butt-glow worms, Underdogs is set to be a wild ride.

📺 Underdogs premieres **16 June on Disney+_.

Bring your curiosity. Maybe not your lunch.

A Complete Unknown: Timothée Chalamet Electrifies as Bob Dylan in Award-Winning Biopic – Now Streaming on Disney+

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Searchlight Pictures’ critically acclaimed biopic A Complete Unknown is now available to stream on Disney+, bringing the transformative early years of music legend Bob Dylan to life in a gripping, cinematic masterpiece.

Directed by Academy Award® nominee James Mangold, the film dives deep into the turbulent yet inspiring cultural landscape of 1960s America. At its heart is a mesmerising performance by Timothée Chalamet, who not only portrays Dylan with uncanny intensity but also performs his music, capturing the spirit and sound of the folk icon’s rise to fame.

Certified Fresh and dubbed “Certified Hot” by Rotten Tomatoes™, A Complete Unknown has already generated major awards buzz. The Hollywood Reporter hailed Chalamet’s portrayal as “an electrifying, transformative performance,” cementing his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

🎬 Film Synopsis

New York, 1961. A 19-year-old musician from Minnesota arrives in the heart of Greenwich Village—a place pulsing with poetry, protest, and possibility. With little more than a guitar and a voice that would come to define a generation, Bob Dylan finds himself surrounded by folk legends like Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy), Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro), and Pete Seeger (Edward Norton). These relationships—and a daring leap into electric sound—spark a musical revolution that forever alters the global landscape.

The film culminates in Dylan’s now-iconic Newport Folk Festival performance, where his electrified set stunned audiences and marked a seismic shift in modern music history.

🌟 A Stellar Cast

Joining Chalamet in this compelling ensemble are:

  • Edward Norton as Pete Seeger

  • Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo

  • Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez

  • Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash

  • Scoot McNairy as Woody Guthrie

🎥 Behind the Scenes

A Complete Unknown is co-written by James Mangold and Jay Cocks, and produced by a powerhouse team including Fred Berger, Alex Heineman, Bob Bookman, Peter Jaysen, Alan Gasmer, Jeff Rosen, and Chalamet himself.

Whether you’re a lifelong Dylan fan or discovering his story for the first time, A Complete Unknown is a must-watch for lovers of music, history, and masterful storytelling.

👉 Now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Heartfelt Film ‘My Eyes’ to Make Emotional Australian Debut on May 28, 2025

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FanForce Films proudly announces the theatrical release of MY EYES on May 28, 2025. Inspired by true events and led by actor/writer/producer Tsu Shan Chambers (SUKA, UNSOUND), this heartfelt Australian story spotlights the remarkable journey of a mother determined to save her daughter’s eyesight—and the broader social impact of living with vision impairment.

MY EYES follows Alana (Chambers), an Optometrist whose life is upended when her young daughter is diagnosed with a hereditary eye condition. Desperate for a stem cell donor, Alana must confront her past—and a life-changing connection to Nico (Eduardo Ávila Sánchez), setting in motion a story of family, cultural identity, and resilience. Adam Garcia (COYOTE UGLY, BOOTMEN) portrays Alana’s devoted husband Sam, and Kieu Chinh (THE JOY LUCK CLUB, THE SYMPATHIZER) appears as Alana’s protective mother.

Produced by Wise Goat Productions in collaboration with an international and diverse creative team, MY EYES highlights social change through its authentic depiction of the vision-impaired community and the power of inclusive storytelling. The film has attracted support from organisations including Vision Australia, the International Blind Sports Federation, Optometry Australia, and many other social impact partners. Premiere fundraisers across Australia—tied to the film’s opening week—will help generate awareness and funds for eye health advocacy and disability inclusion initiatives.

Quote from Tsu Shan Chambers (Actor, Writer, Producer, and Practicing Optometrist):

“MY EYES is deeply personal to me—growing up with multiple cultural influences, training as an Optometrist, and experiencing close connections with people affected by vision loss. It’s a story I’ve wanted to share for years, and I’m overjoyed to finally bring it to audiences in a way that sparks empathy and positive change.

As an independent producer, it is important to me to be able to bring to the screen an authentic local story that will take Australian culture and values to a global audience. We have so many stories to share and need more opportunities like this to bring them to life”.

Quote from Adam Garcia (Actor):

“Even though I’m now based in the UK, there was never a doubt in my mind about joining MY EYES. The film’s heart and the team’s dedication to representing meaningful stories made it impossible to say no. I’m thrilled for audiences to see the beauty and realism we’ve created.”

Quote from Eduardo Ávila Sánchez (Actor):

“As someone who understands life with a disability, I hope MY EYES encourages everyone to look past labels and assumptions. This film is about celebrating our abilities, our families, and our determination to make every moment count.”

Vision Australia also voiced support, with a spokesperson adding:

“Stories like MY EYES are essential in showing the resilience and achievements of people living with blindness or low vision. We’re proud to see an authentic portrayal on screen and look forward to the impact it will have on raising awareness for eye health.”

MY EYES also features an original track by Australian sensation Dami Im. Known for her acclaimed run at Eurovision 2016—where she won Semi-Final 2, secured the top Jury Vote, and finished second overall—Dami Im (2013 winner of THE X FACTOR AUSTRALIA and Destiny Rescue Ambassador) lends a moving musical backdrop to Alana’s journey of self-discovery.

Early festival appearances, including at the Gold Coast Film Festival, are scheduled prior to the nationwide release on May 28, 2025. A unique rollout of screenings will follow across Australia and New Zealand, featuring special Q&A events as well as Fan screenings—empowering communities to bring MY EYES to their local cinema. Tickets and more details can be found at Fan-Force.com/ MyEyes.

Make a Splash with Leo the Sea Lion Pup in Disneynature’s Sea Lions of the Galápagos, Streaming April 22 on Disney+

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Dive in with handsome sea lion pup Leo in Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” streaming on Disney+ beginning April 22. Narrated by Brendan Fraser, the stunning feature film explores the fascinating world of the Galapagos alongside a host of creatures from land and sea. A trailer, key art and film stills are now available to download and share.

CONSERVATION INITIATIVE

In celebration of Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Disney Conservation Fund is supporting Conservation International, working alongside local organisations to connect more than 1,500 youth with the beauty of the Galápagos and inspire action to reduce ocean plastics for the benefit of marine life like sea lions.

SOUNDTRACK

The “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” Original Score Soundtrack composed by Raphaelle Thibaut will be available on streaming services April 22.

In “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Leo eventually leaves his mother’s colony to find his own home following swimming lessons, fishing expeditions and some growing up. Male sea lions must fight to earn the best spots, and only the strongest will become beachmasters. Leo’s lifelong quest is fraught with challenges and filled with new encounters with an array of creatures, from marine iguanas and racer snakes to yellow fin tuna and huge Galapagos sharks. The archipelago is Leo’s playground—overland and underwater—but he must stay vigilant to find his place in the world. Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” is directed by Wilson, co-directed by Keith Scholey, and produced by Wilson, Scholey and Roy Conli, the adventure features music by composer Raphaelle Thibaut.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney + (photo supplied)