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Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera in 'The Copenhagen Test' Official Trailer
Hollywood

Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera in ‘The Copenhagen Test’ Official Trailer

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera in ‘The Copenhagen Test’ Official Trailer

by Alex Billington
December 8, 2025
Source: YouTube

“From this moment forward, your life is mine.” What would you do if they were watching your life through your eyes? Peacock revealed an official trailer for a sci-fi thriller streaming series called The Copenhagen Test, which will be launching on Peacock at the end of December just before New Years. A first-generation Chinese-American analyst realizes his brain’s been hacked, allowing access to his senses and vision. Some kind of “wifi signal in his head” broadcasting it to some other secret organization or criminals or whoever. Stuck between the agency and hackers, he must act normal to reveal the culprits and find out who is tracing him. Simu Liu stars as Alexander Hale, with Melissa Barrera, Sinclair Daniel, Brian d’Arcy James, Mark O’Brien, and Kathleen Chalfant; along with Saul Rubinek and Hannah Cruz. This reminds me of the movie Source Code. The title is apparently a reference to this idea: The Copenhagen Interpretation, developed by Bohr and Heisenberg, is the foundational understanding of quantum mechanics stating that particles lack definite properties (like position or momentum) until measured, existing in “superpositions”. Very interesting – although I have to say this does look a bit too TV show cheesy for my tastes. Have a look.

Here’s the full official trailer for Peacock’s thriller series The Copenhagen Test, from YouTube:

The Copenhagen Test Series

The Copenhagen Test Series

The Copenhagen Test Series

This new espionage thriller series follows first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst Alexander Hale (Simu Liu) who realizes his brain has been hacked, giving the perpetrators access to everything he sees & hears. Caught between his shadowy agency & unknown hackers, he must maintain a performance 24/7 to flush out who’s responsible and prove where his allegiance lies. The Copenhagen Test is a series created and written by the screenwriter Thomas Brandon, mainly of The CW series “Legacies” previously. With writing by Adam Benic, Jamie Chan, Marilyn Fu, Hannah Rosner, and Thomas Brandon. Featuring episodes directed by Nima Nourizadeh, Kevin Tancharoen, and Jet Wilkinson. Showrun by Thomas Brandon and Jennifer Yale. Executive produced by Thomas Brandon, Jennifer Yale, James Wan, Michael Clear, Rob Hackett, Mark Winemaker, Jet Wilkinson, Simu Liu. NBC will debut The Copenhagen Test series streaming on Peacock starting December 27th, 2025 right at the end of this year. Who’s intrigued? Look any good?

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Find more posts in: Sci-Fi, Streaming, To Watch, Trailer

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Letterboxd VOD Platform Video Store Reveals First Films
TV & Streaming

Letterboxd VOD Platform Video Store Reveals First Films

by jummy84
written by jummy84

After years of documenting the viewing habits of cinephiles everywhere, Letterboxd is entering the distribution world. On December 10, the site will launch Video Store, a new VOD platform that allows users to rent a curated selection of movies curated by the Letterboxd team.

With Video Store debuting on Wednesday, Letterboxd has answered some of our questions about the previously announced platform. Video Store will use a transactional video-on-demand (TVOD) model, in which users pay to watch individual movies without any subscription fee. The product will launch in 23 countries, and the app will be available on iOS, Android, web browsers, and a variety of smart TVs.

'Cronos' (1993)

The first nine films will be arranged into two “shelves”: Unreleased Gems, consisting of recent festival favorites that previously did not have distribution; and Lost & Found, which is comprised of previously lost or newly restored classics.

Notable titles include Todd Haynes’ 1991 debut feature “Poison,” Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s “Before We Vanish,” and 2025 SXSW premiere “It Ends.”

“Weʼre incredibly proud of what we and our community have built,ˮ Letterboxd CEO and co-founder Matthew Buchanan said in a statement. “We take their lead, and believe that has been integral to Letterboxdʼs success. They tell us what’s really happening — a 1980s action film suddenly trending, a festival title from two years ago still being added to watchlists.”

He continued, “Video Store lets us act on that real demand, whether itʼs helping a distributor unlock value from a forgotten gem in its vault or giving a filmmaker direct access to the audience theyʼve been building on our platform. Itʼs our way of saying to the industry: letʼs harness this interest to get films to the people who want them most.ˮ

Keep reading for the full slate of titles launching on Video Store, with language provided by Letterboxd.

UNRELEASED GEMS

“It Ends” (2025) – Director Alexander Ullom’s directorial debut about recent grads trapped on an infinite, nightmarish backroad made waves when it premiered at SXSW 2025, going on to win Best First Feature at Fantasia International Film Festival and the Narrative Feature Grand Jury Award at the Atlanta Film Festival.

“Sore: A Wife from the Future” (2025) – Director Yandy Laurens’ inventive time-loop sci-fi romance about a woman who travels back in time to change her husband’s destiny received eight nominations at the 2025 Indonesian Film Festival, including Best Picture, and has been selected as Indonesia’s submission for the Best International Feature Film for the upcoming Academy Awards.

“Kennedy” (2023) – Anurag Kashyap’s neo-noir thriller following a presumed-dead insomniac ex-cop seeking redemption in Mumbai’s dark streets premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023, going on to screen at over twenty international festivals.

“The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo” (2025) – Director Diego Céspedes’ feature debut about an eleven-year-old girl protecting her town’s queer community from superstitious panic won the Un Certain Regard Prize at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and has been selected as Chile’s submission for the Best International Feature Film for the upcoming Academy Awards. 

LOST & FOUND

“Tiger on the Beat” (1988) – This legendary 1988 action-comedy starring Chow Yun-Fat and directed by Lau Kar-Leung remains a beloved classic of Hong Kong cinema. For most of the world, this is the first opportunity to see the new 4K restoration—a digital exclusive to Letterboxd at launch.

“Kisapmata” (1981) – Considered one of the greatest Filipino films of all time, Mike de Leon’s masterpiece about a young woman living under her domineering father’s suffocating control won ten awards at the 1981 Metro Manila Film Festival including Best Film and screened at Cannes. This brand new 4K restoration premieres digitally, celebrating the late director’s uncompromising vision that faced censorship under the Marcos regime.

“It Must Be Heaven” (2019) – This comedy won both the Special Mention from the Main Competition Jury and FIPRESCI Prize at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival, but its theatrical release was delayed for over a year due to the pandemic, limiting its reach despite widespread praise. . Suleiman’s distinctive visual satire continues his acclaimed tradition of observational comedy that speaks to universal themes of displacement and belonging.

“Poison” (1991) – This groundbreaking film won the Grand Jury Prize at the 1991 Sundance Film Festival and became a lightning rod in the culture wars, with conservative politicians attempting to defund the NEA over its support. The first feature from future Oscar nominee Todd Haynes established him as a fearless voice in independent cinema.

“Before We Vanish” (2017) – Based on a cult Japanese stage play, master filmmaker Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s alien invasion story screened in Un Certain Regard at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, showcasing the acclaimed director’s distinctive take on the genre.

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SheGlam Beauty's Night Out
Fashion

The Ultimate Holiday Party Makeup Look with SHEGLAM

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Welcome to Beauty’s Night Out, a series dedicated to the need-to-know beauty conversations dominating the nightlife scene. Expect a first look at the latest trends, behind-the-scenes tutorials, and loads of going-out inspiration as you get all dolled up—all you need is your favorite playlist.

Picture it: You and your best friends are getting ready in your apartment. You’ve slipped on a sequin minidress, makeup is strewn across your vanity, and your bubblegum-pop Y2K playlist (or your pre-party playlist of choice) is blasting from your phone speaker. It’s official: Holiday party season is in full swing. I’ve been searching for some fresh makeup ideas for such occasions, and who better to ask than someone who lives and breathes nightlife? So, I called on Christa Eduafo, AKA DJ CHVMELEON—an NYC-based DJ, content creator, and social strategist—to give me some party-makeup inspo.

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Miley Cyrus & More – Hollywood Life
Hollywood

Miley Cyrus & More – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84




View gallery

Miley Cyrus 41ST ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, AMERICA - 23 MAY 2006
Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana Licensing International Expo, New York, America - 19 Jun 2007
Miley Cyrus 50th Annual Grammy Awards arrivals, the Staples Center, Los Angeles, America - 10 Feb 2008
Image Credit: WireImage

Get ready for a major throwback — Hannah Montana first aired nearly 20 years ago, and the beloved Disney Channel series is still making headlines in 2025. Premiering on March 24, 2006, the show became a global phenomenon and launched Miley Cyrus into international stardom as Miley Stewart, the teen living a secret double life as pop star Hannah Montana.

Miley was just 12 years old when she stepped into the role, and nearly two decades later, she and the rest of the cast are fully grown, living wildly different lives from their Disney days. Miley has openly reflected on her journey over the years — including in her emotional 2023 single “Used To Be Young,” where she looked back on her “wild” younger years with honesty and nostalgia.

With the show’s 20th anniversary approaching in 2026, Miley recently addressed reboot rumors. She told Billboard that she doesn’t see a traditional revival happening — “this is the only Hannah,” she said — but teased that she does want to do something special to honor the milestone.

Now 33 and recently engaged to musician Maxx Morando, Miley continues to be a major force in entertainment with new music and visual projects. Meanwhile, Hannah Montana remains as popular as ever, with all episodes currently streaming on Disney+ for anyone ready to relive the magic. Find out what the cast is up to these days.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus then and now. (Everett Collection/Shutterstock)

Miley Cyrus became a global star and teen idol when she began playing Hannah Montana in the Disney Channel series in 2006. The show ran for 4 seasons and ended in 2011. Miley also portrayed the character in the 2009 film, Hannah Montana: The Movie.

Since leaving Disney, Miley has built a hugely successful music career with albums including Bangerz, Plastic Hearts, and Endless Summer Vacation, as well as chart-topping singles like “The Climb,” “Party in the U.S.A.,” “Wrecking Ball,” and “Flowers.” In August 2023, she released the reflective single “Used to Be Young,” where she looked back on her “wild” younger years. She has continued releasing new material, including her 2025 visual album Something Beautiful, which earned strong critical attention.

Miley has also continued acting, starring in 2010’s The Last Song — where she met Liam Hemsworth — and returning to the screen for an episode of Black Mirror in 2019. She also served as a coach on The Voice for two seasons.

Her personal life has been equally high-profile. Miley and Liam dated on and off starting in 2009, got engaged in 2012, split in 2013, reunited in 2016, and married in 2018 before divorcing in 2020. Over the years, she has also been linked to Patrick Schwarzenegger, Stella Maxwell, and Cody Simpson, and publicly came out as pansexual in 2015.

Today, Miley is in a long-term relationship with musician Maxx Morando, whom she began dating in 2021. In late 2025, the couple became engaged.

Billy Ray Cyrus

Billy Ray Cyrus
Billy Ray Cyrus then and now. (Everett Collection/Shutterstock)

Billy Ray Cyrus — who is Miley Cyrus’ real-life father — played her on-screen dad, Robby Ray Stewart, on Hannah Montana. He became one of the show’s core figures throughout its 2006–2011 run. During his time on the show, he even competed on Dancing With the Stars season 4, finishing in 5th place. Following the end of Hannah Montana, Billy Ray continued releasing music — dropping five studio albums — and later starred in the CMT sitcom Still the King from 2016 to 2017.

His career saw a major renaissance in 2019 when he appeared on Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” remix, which went on to break records with a 14× platinum certification in 2021 — making it one of the most awarded singles in RIAA history.

In 2020, Billy Ray told HollywoodLife there had been talks of a Hannah Montana prequel centered around Robby Ray, joking that he’d jump at the chance to bring back his iconic mullet. Although the prequel never moved forward, interest in the show has surged again as its 20th anniversary approaches.

On the personal side, Billy Ray married Australian singer Firerose in 2023, but the relationship was short-lived. The pair filed for divorce in 2024, and the split was finalized in 2025 after months of public tension and legal back-and-forth.

Emily Osment

Emily Osment
Emily Osment then and now. (Everett Collection/Shutterstock)

Emily Osment starred as Lilly Truscott — best friend to Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana — on the hit Disney Channel series and appeared in Hannah Montana: The Movie. After the show ended, she built a diverse acting career across film and television.

Osment’s early post-Disney work included family and teen films like The Haunting Hour: Don’t Think About It, Dadnapped, Cyberbully, and Christmas Wonderland. She gained broader visibility with her lead role on the Freeform sitcom Young & Hungry (2014–2018), and later starred in the Fox drama Almost Family, which ran for one season.

On television, Emily has had notable recurring roles on acclaimed series like The Kominsky Method and Mom, displaying her range across comedy and drama. She also voiced a lead character on the Netflix animated series Dead End: Paranormal Park.

Mitchel Musso

Mitchel Musso
Mitchel Musso on ‘Hannah Montana’ and in 2010. (Everett Collection/MEGA)

Mitchel Musso played Oliver Oken, one of Miley Stewart’s closest friends on Hannah Montana. Alongside his live-action role, he voiced Jeremy Johnson on Phineas and Ferb, a character he later reprised in the 2020 film Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe. Musso also starred on the Disney XD series Pair of Kings and hosted PrankStars on Disney Channel. In music, he released his self-titled debut album in 2009, which produced the fan-favorite single “The In Crowd.”

After his Disney years, Musso stepped back from the spotlight, though he continued occasional voice work and low-profile acting projects. His personal life made headlines in 2011 when he was charged with two counts of drunken driving, later pleading no contest to one count and receiving probation, a fine, and mandatory alcohol education courses, TMZ reported. At the time, he publicly took accountability, saying he wanted to move forward and learn from the experience.

“In becoming an adult, I have learned first hand that stepping up and taking responsibility is the best way to move forward,” he told E! Online at the time. “I am especially thankful to my family and fans for their unwavering support and encouragement. I am glad to now put this in the past.”

Musso returned to headlines in August 2023 after being arrested in Texas on charges including public intoxication and theft (for allegedly taking a bag of chips), according to police reports. The charges were later dismissed, with the court citing insufficient evidence and Musso’s cooperation; he said the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding and that he was grateful to have it resolved. The case became a viral moment online, prompting Musso to issue statements thanking fans for support and emphasizing that he has been focusing on sobriety.

Jason Earles

Jason Earles
Jason Earles then and now. (Everett Collection/Shutterstock)

Jason Earles starred as the wacky and lovable Jackson Stewart, Miley Stewart’s older brother, on Hannah Montana, earning praise for his physical comedy and memorable one-liners. After the series wrapped in 2011, he went on to star as Rudy on the Disney XD martial arts sitcom Kickin’ It, which ran from 2011 to 2015 and became one of the network’s most popular shows.

Since then, Earles has continued acting with guest appearances on various TV projects, including a 2020 episode of Just Roll With It. He’s also appeared in shows like WTH: Welcome to Howler, Mood Swings, and Hotel Du Loone.

In his personal life, Jason was married to Jennifer Earles from 2002 until their divorce in 2013. He later married Katie Drysen in 2017, and the pair continue to support each other’s creative endeavors. Jason also dedicates time to mentoring young actors and working with theater programs, reflecting his long-standing passion for performance and comedy.

Moisés Arias

Moisés Arias
Moisés Arias then and now. (Everett Collection/Shutterstock)

Moisés Arias played the fan-favorite character Rico on Hannah Montana. After a recurring role in the first season, Moises became a series regular. Following Hannah Montana, Arias built an impressive career in film. He earned critical praise for his role in the 2013 coming-of-age film The Kings of Summer, and has appeared in major projects including Despicable Me 2, Ender’s Game, Pitch Perfect 3, and Five Feet Apart. His work continued into the 2020s with standout roles in The King of Staten Island (2020), as well as appearances in Samaritan and American Murderer.

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Andy Muschietti on the Black Spot Scene
TV & Streaming

Andy Muschietti on the Black Spot Scene

by jummy84
written by jummy84

SPOILER ALERT: This story contains spoilers from Season 1, Episode 7 of “It: Welcome to Derry,” now streaming on HBO Max.

If there was ever any speculation that the horrors explored in HBO’s “It: Welcome to Derry” were purely supernatural, Episode 7 put those questions to rest. After a flashback cold open that shows the origins of Pennywise the Clown (Bill Skarsgård), the episode picks up where the previous one left off, with a gun-wielding, mask-wearing mob of the eponymous town’s white citizens infiltrating the Black Spot: a hangout for the Black soldiers on Derry’s military base, and a hideout for the town’s falsely accused fugitive, Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider).

The white mob breaks into the Black Spot looking for Grogan, and a standoff ensues when the club’s patrons draw their own guns. The tension is briefly broken when the mob lowers their weapons and retreats, but the relief is temporary, as they lock the doors from the outside, throw Molotov cocktails into the building and riddle its walls with bullets.

The shoot-off continues as the Black Spot burns down with dozens of people inside — many of them central characters in the series, including most of the main ensemble of children. It is a raw and violent sequence, expanded upon from a brief chapter in Stephen King’s original “It” novel.

Courtesy of HBO

As it is in the novel, the scene showcases the grounded horrors taking place in Derry, but they are made even more eerie by the ghostly apparitions that soon crowd the massacre. Because Pennywise feeds on the town’s fear, he obviously shows up amid the terrifying event. Meanwhile, because the telekinetic Dick Hallorann (Chris Chalk) is present in the fire, he witnesses hordes of spirits appear as ill-fated souls enter the afterlife all around him.

It’s a fusion of real and metaphorical terrors that come together in a harrowingly powerful scene that elevates “Welcome to Derry” to new heights. Variety caught up with the series’ executive producer and Episode 7 director Andy Muschietti over email to talk about his artistic and thematic approach to the show’s most impactful scene yet.

The massacre at the Black Spot is a small, but memorable part of Stephen King’s “It” novel. Did you always anticipate adapting and expanding upon it as a pivotal part of “Welcome to Derry”?

In the big ocean that is the book, the Black Spot seems small, but it’s actually a very substantial event in the interludes. Since we’re basing the show on the interludes, we really wanted to show the events of the Black Spot and use it as a guideline. Apart from a dramatic low point, it is a guideline that leads our characters towards a catastrophic conclusion, or, if not a conclusion, a big pivotal point in the story.

How did you decide on the suspenseful pacing of the scene, having the stand-off followed by brief relief before the horrors begin?

I wanted to do justice to the book in terms of the horror and the atrocities that are experienced. I wanted to not only create tension and suspense on the build up, but also when the whole thing goes off. We wanted to create the impression that we are locked inside with the rest of the people. That’s why the perspective doesn’t leave the room. There is a bit of a oner that basically follows several characters as the panic spreads with the fire. It’s a really tough scene to watch and was a very tough scene to shoot, but I really wanted to stay true to the intensity of that part of the book.

Courtesy of HBO

How much of the set design was practical and how much was digital? Of course, people weren’t actually getting burned, but did you use any real fire? Did you actually destroy the Black Spot set?

The burning of the Black Spot happened mainly on two big sets. One of them is the set of the Black Spot where we shot several scenes before. The second one is a more open place used for the part where chaos prevails and everything is on fire. I wanted to create confusion. I wanted to put the audience in the driver’s seat of that catastrophe and give the impression that you are lost and you don’t know where the door is.

That second part was shot in a place that didn’t have walls. For all the running, all the confusion, all the mayhem that you see, I wanted to create a place where you couldn’t recognize anything. It’s curious, because set No. 1 and set No. 2 are sort of fused in one of the shots. You can actually see it if you pay attention; you can see how we go from the set to a place that is engulfed in flames. There was practical fire, but we could not put actors in harm’s way, so a lot of it is not practical. Following the safety regulations, we used practical fire for stuff in the foreground and in the distance. The rest is made in post-production. Regarding the general performance, we had our actors perform as if they are struggling in these conditions, but also we had a bunch of background performers that were stunt-trained special performers.

How do you approach directing a kinetic scene like this, where there are lots of people reacting chaotically? Do you allow people to improvise, or are you choreographing every individual?

It was a challenging sequence to film, because you’re trying to convey chaos and panic and a lack of control. But of course, you had to choreograph every single second of it, and that’s what we did. The choreography took us probably two days of designing the whole sequence. The oner was a very challenging shot to achieve, because it basically starts with the first Molotov cocktail that sets the fire. Then people panic. They start running in all directions and the camera has to follow certain characters and then transition towards the action of other characters and then pan out to the ceiling, where it’s on fire before we fall back and someone takes us to another corner. It was an interesting challenge to execute. Everybody had to be on point. We had the camera department, the cast, special effects and stunt teams all working to make this incredibly complex scene. It’s very choreographed, but it had to look real and chaotic. I think the chaos was achieved. And I’m very proud of all of what we did there. Everything that needed to be choreographed was choreographed. Even in the background, people knew what they had to do.

Of course, there are moments of improvisation. Because it’s a scene with heightened emotion, people do things that were not planned. There were things that didn’t happen as expected, but then everything fell back in line. It’s a great thing about making movies: accidents happen. I don’t mean accidents like something bad happens, but something unexpected. There was a lot of that.

How long did the sequence take to film?

It took us like four or five days to shoot. It wasn’t easy.

What do you think audiences will take away from this scene within the broader series?

We shot this in a very visceral way. It’s a very first person experience. We wanted to get the audience to feel what being trapped in this place would be like. Dramatically, that was the intent. Thematically, we wanted to convey the idea that the worst things that happen in this world are often caused by us humans and that we are capable of inflicting pain and hate and horror in each other, just as much or more than the monster is.

This interview has been lightly edited for Variety’s style

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Hollywood’s New Obsession: The Rise of the “Quiet Icons” Changing the Fame Game
Hollywood

Hollywood’s New Obsession: The Rise of the “Quiet Icons” Changing the Fame Game

by jummy84
written by jummy84

There’s a new wave sweeping through Hollywood, and it’s not about blockbuster franchises, scandal-driven headlines, or overnight viral fame. This season, the industry’s coolest energy is coming from what fans are calling the “Quiet Icons”  celebrities who don’t need chaos, controversy, or clickbait to dominate the conversation.

From red carpets to social media feeds, these stars are redefining what it means to shine in Hollywood. Instead of loud drama, they bring authenticity, intention, and a vibe that feels refreshingly human in an industry built on noise.

Leading the trend are multi-hyphenates like Lily Collins, who continues to blend classic elegance with modern cool; Barry Keoghan, whose mysterious charm has turned him into the internet’s favorite unpredictable actor; and rising artists like Maya Hawke, who has quietly become the muse of a generation craving softness and originality.

What makes these stars magnetic is simple:
realness is their brand.
They show up to premieres with effortless fashion, post unfiltered behind-the-scenes content, and speak with honesty about their process instead of perfection. No over-curated personas, no performative drama, just vibes, talent, and a sense of grounded confidence.

Even in fashion, the Quiet Icon movement is booming. Stylist-favorite brands like The Row, Khaite, and Tove are leaning into minimal silhouettes and luxe textures that whisper instead of shout. The red carpet has officially entered its “silent luxury with personality” era, and fans can’t get enough.

What’s fascinating is that this shift isn’t accidental, it’s cultural. Audiences are exhausted by spectacle. They want stars who feel real, who make fame look sustainable instead of chaotic, and who bring emotional intelligence to an industry that sometimes forgets what emotion even means.

This new Hollywood energy proves one thing:
You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to be the most iconic.
Sometimes, the ones who speak softly make the biggest impact.

Photo Credit:
Montclair Film, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Senior Airman Austin Pate, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Toglenn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Documentary Not As Hard To Watch As You Fear
TV & Streaming

Documentary Not As Hard To Watch As You Fear

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Dog Warriors is about South Korean markets that sell dog meat. It explores the dog farms that slaughter the animals in inhumane ways. And yet, director Andrew Abrahams assures viewers the film is not as traumatizing as the description makes it sound. At Deadline’s Contenders Documentary event, Abrahams told Matt Carey how he balanced presenting the subject matter so that viewers would actually stick with the film and learn about the issue.

“On one hand, we want to show the reality,” Abrahams said. “On the other hand, we don’t want to scare people away. One of the principal issues around this film is that people love dogs so much that they don’t want to see them suffering. Even the thought of them suffering is too, it’s almost too much for them. They can see people being killed or other animals, but dogs, it’s way too close to home.”

Abrahams said he did take out some of the goriest scenes he captured. Nevertheless, the subject matter makes it a hard sell.

“We get a lot of people who are afraid to see the film, and we hear that a lot,” Abrahams said. “We’ve heard that from distributors, even — that they’re afraid that people will be afraid to see the film. I call it ‘the must-see film you thought you couldn’t watch,’ that it’s something that you’re afraid of watching, but it’s not that difficult to get through.”

Your mileage may vary, however.

“I did see it at a film festival recently,” Abrahams said. “Somebody walked out of the film at one particularly more difficult section.”

RELATED: Contenders Documentary — Deadline’s Complete Coverage

Janette Warren alerted Abrahams to the practice. He wanted to make a film to make viewers aware about it, but did not just want to make “an issue film.” A group of combat veterans aiming to save as many dogs as possible proved a way in.

“I don’t wanna make advocacy films,” Abrahams said. “I like that a film is nuanced. I want the viewer to come away to make their own decisions. I want them to struggle with the complexities of an issue. As much as it’s sort of clear where my sympathies lie, my sympathies also lie with the dog meat farmers. This has been their trade for their whole life. They don’t know anything different. So it will affect their livelihoods. I have sympathy for that. It’s not black and white.”

As Dog Warriors is released into the world following its premiere at the 2024 Raindance Film Festival, things are changing in South Korea. Independent of the film’s subjects, the government has banned the sale and consumption of dog meat, which will go into effect in 2027.

“There’s a lot of pushback from the Dog Meat Association,” Abrahams said. “They’re threatening to cause all sorts of mayhem if that law goes through. But it did pass. It didn’t happen because of our veterans, although we’d like to think they played a part, that all the people came together to make that change happen.”

Check back Tuesday for the panel video.

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Lela Rose Pre-Fall 2026 Collection
Fashion

Lela Rose Pre-Fall 2026 Collection

by jummy84
written by jummy84

A floral dress is standard fare from Lela Rose, but this season the designer approached it a little differently. Her canvas skirt sets came embellished with floral appliqués that were actually made by hand from leather. Rose was rightly proud of this new detail, pointing out that the appliqués won’t lose their shape or structure, and that the mixed textile components add something new to the closets of her customers.

Over the years, the brand has become a dependable source for evening wear, especially for Southerners. Now, in a more experimental frame of mind, Rose used casual fabrics for those signature dresses. A floral gown, for instance, was made from simple cotton poplin. Though it was lined with horsehair fabric to add volume and drama, it retained its relaxed perspective.

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Is papaya safe during pregnancy? Gynaecologist shares the benefits and risks of eating this fruit
Lifestyle

Is papaya safe during pregnancy? Gynaecologist shares the benefits and risks of eating this fruit

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Pregnancy is a time of joy and excitement, but it also means paying close attention to what you eat for your own and the baby’s well-being. This fruit is rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Still, there is always a debate about whether it is safe to eat papaya during pregnancy.

Papaya is believed to be heat-inducing and pregnant women are often told to avoid it. (Adobe Stock)

Papaya is a very healthy fruit. It contains a lot of folate, potassium, and fibre. It is also a good source of vitamin C, which helps keep your immune system strong and supports your baby’s growth during pregnancy. “Papaya can help with digestion, easing common problems such as constipation, bloating, and heartburn”, Dr Sonamm Tiwari, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician at Hiranandani Hospital Vashi, tells Health Shots.

While papaya has many benefits, it’s important to know its risks during pregnancy. Dr Tiwari warns: “The enzyme papain in papaya can cause uterine contractions, which may lead to miscarriage or preterm labour”. Unripe or semi-ripe papaya is even riskier, as it can cause the amniotic sac to rupture, resulting in a loss of amniotic fluid that can harm the feotus.

Dr Tiwari further says that “pregnant women should be cautious, especially in the later stages of pregnancy, when risks can increase. Expectant mothers should stay informed about these risks as they make dietary decisions.”

Is unripe papaya better than ripe papaya during pregnancy?

Eating papaya during pregnancy requires caution. Papaya contains phytoestrogens, natural compounds that can mimic estrogen in the body. Even ripe papayas may disrupt hormones and potentially cause problems such as low birth weight or developmental issues for the baby. Dr Tiwari advises, “It is important to be careful and eat papaya in moderation.”

Should you totally avoid papaya during pregnancy?

According to Dr Tiwari, the answer is “not necessarily”. If you still want to enjoy this tropical fruit, the expert shares some tips on how to do so safely:

  • Choose fully ripe papayas: Unripe papayas have much higher levels of papain compared to ripe ones, making ripe papayas a safer option for pregnant women.
  • Practice moderation: “If you decide to eat papaya, limit yourself to no more than 1 cup of fully ripe fruit per day,” the doctor says. Pay attention to your body; if you feel any discomfort, stop eating it right away.
  • Consult a healthcare professional: If you have any concerns about eating papaya during your pregnancy, it’s important to talk to your doctor for personalised advice. Every pregnancy is different.

What to do if you accidentally ate papaya during pregnancy?

Mistakes happen. If you accidentally ate papaya, stay calm. Eating a small amount usually won’t cause harm. “Watch for any unusual symptoms, such as allergic reactions, stomach problems, or uterine contractions”, shares the doctor. If you notice anything unusual or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider. They can support you through this.

(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)

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6 Women-Centric Films That Powerfully Showcase The Strength Of Female-Led Cinema
Bollywood

6 Women-Centric Films That Powerfully Showcase The Strength Of Female-Led Cinema

by jummy84
written by jummy84

The nationwide momentum around HAQ has officially positioned the film as one of the year’s most significant social-justice successes both critically and commercially. With its continued performance and cultural traction, HAQ demonstrates that women-led, rights-focused narratives are culturally urgent. Produced by Junglee Pictures, in association with Insomnia Films and Baweja Studios, HAQ extends the studio’s long-standing commitment to socially impactful storytelling. Starring Yami Gautam Dhar and Emraan Hashmi, the film’s gripping courtroom narrative has struck a nationwide chord, igniting conversations across audience segments, media circles, and policy spaces alike. The film is directed by Suparn S Varma and written by Reshu Nath. HAQ now enters the landscape shaped by women-centred successes and films that proved that authentic, grounded stories can deliver both emotional resonance and broad commercial reach.

6 Women-Centric Films That Powerfully Showcase The Strength Of Female-Led Cinema

Laapataa Ladies

This film uses humane humour and gentle satire to tell the story of two young brides who get accidentally swapped on a train. It subtly and powerfully champions female agency and identity by exploring the lives of women who have once been lost, find an unexpected opportunity for self-discovery outside the confines of patriarchy.

Jigra

This film centres around the fierce, protective bond between a sister and her younger brother. The plot is driven by the sister’s dangerous and unwavering resolve to rescue her brother when he is wrongfully imprisoned and sentenced to death in a foreign country with strict laws. It highlights the lengths a woman will go to for her family.

Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway

This film is based on a true story about an Indian mother whose children are taken away by the Norwegian Child Welfare Services due to cultural differences in parenting. It is a powerful narrative of a mother’s relentless, global fight against a foreign system to reclaim her children, highlighting the trauma of cultural alienation and bureaucratic insensitivity.

Panga

A heartwarming sports drama centred on a former Kabaddi world champion, now a loving wife and mother, who decides to stage a comeback to the sport years after retiring. The film celebrates a woman’s ambition, identity, and the importance of a supportive family that enables her to chase her deferred dreams.

Thappad

A cultural milestone that confronts the normalisation of domestic violence, even in its most subtle forms. The film follows a seemingly happy homemaker whose world shatters when her ambitious husband slaps her publicly at a party. Her decision to seek a divorce forces her family and the audience to question the fundamental nature of respect and equality within a marriage. It confronted normalised violence and sparked debate nationwide.

Haq

A courtroom drama inspired by the landmark 1985 judgment of the Supreme Court. The film talks about a woman who seeks justice for herself and her 3 children. When her husband divorces her and stops paying maintenance, it leads to a legal battle that explores women’s rights within personal faith, social customs, and civil law. 

    With HAQ, Junglee Pictures adds yet another title to its catalogue of high-impact cinema. The studio’s dedication to socially relevant narratives like Raazi, Badhai Ho, and Badhai Do finds renewed validation as the film’s commercial and cultural traction continue to grow.

    As its theatrical run continues to build momentum, HAQ stands tall as a defining victory for socially fearless storytelling and ignites the bigger conversations on the Uniform Civil Code. The need for establishing one law for all religions so that justice is served equally to all. It doesn’t just join the country’s growing wave of robust, justice-driven cinema; it raises the stakes and sets a new benchmark for what women-led narratives can achieve at the Indian box office.

    For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.

    Also Read: Kiara Advani, Kriti Sanon To Krishna Shroff, Take Inspo From These Actresses Who Are Redefining Corset Fashion With Show-Stopping Looks

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