For our Weekly Drop Watch column, Fashionista scours the market to curate the most noteworthy releases from our favorite fashion and beauty brands. Keep scrolling for this week’s highlights. Aritzia and Nike collaborated to create the Aritzia x Nike LD-1000 “Edition A” sneaker ($165), …
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Is this the best new opening credits sequence of the year?
HBO‘s horror-thriller It: Welcome to Derry just revealed a stunner of a credits sequence (watch it below) that debuted on the show’s second episode, which was released on HBO Max a few days early for Halloween.
The phantasmagorical animated sequence peels apart the seemingly idyllic Maine town during the early 1960s to gradually reveal an increasingly horrifying succession of postcard-like tableaus, from Pennywise causing death and destruction to the threat of nuclear war. The sequence is set to the aggressively sunny 1956 song “A Smile and A Ribbon,” by Patience and Prudence, and extends HBO’s track record for creating groundbreaking titles for shows (with previous standouts including The Sopranos, Game of Thrones and Westworld).
The show’s executive producer and director, Andy Muschietti (who made the series along with his creative partner Barbara Muschietti) calls the concept “a descent into dread” that was inspired by the film’s postcard-tourism Welcome to Derry title.
“The name Welcome to Derry felt touristic and brings you to the world of postcards and facade, which has a lot to do with what Derry is — a place that’s seemingly wholesome, but there’s something dreadful under the surface,” says Muschietti, who heavily praised the production studio Filmograph, which created the sequence. “There was a lot of tweaking and calibration — how much is the next step? It reflects our desire to show the big catastrophic events [described in Stephen King’s book IT], all leading to the explosion at the Ironworks.”
The Ironworks factory explosion and other events shown in the credits, however, will not necessarily be depicted in the series, particularly during the first season. Another key event in the sequence is a shootout in the street with the Bradley Gang, which took place during the 1930s.
A crucial component is the song “A Smile and A Ribbon,” which was originally going to be used for a sequence where a character gets ready for school. Then they tried the song for the credits instead, and it fit perfectly. As the images get weirder and darker, the song offers up the unsettling key lyric, “The louder I say I’m happy, the more I believe it’s so.”
“The song is about faking a state of mind, faking a feeling,” Muschietti says. “The message of the song wrapped in such a beautiful tune is dreadful in itself.”
The team at Filmograph also gave some insight into the title’s creation, including one element that went too far even for Muschietti.
“Our assignment was to take the literature [from King’s novel] and take vignettes that also exist in the world of the show and find a way to stitch them together,” said Aaron Becker, a principal and director at Filmograph. “Andy [was] dead set on the idea of taking us back in time through a specific type of medium — the tourist postcards that you would find in like the gift shop in a small town, which worked perfectly for Stephen King’s lexicon and Derry in particular.”
The animation itself was done with CG, but then HBO let them take what they had created and put the final product on film, which added a bit of grainy realism to the end result. “And the nice thing is that Andy kept saying, ‘I want the dirtiest-looking version.’”
The grain also meshed well with the song, which has record scratches and pops as part of its original recording. “We got the track and we dropped it in, it almost lined up perfectly,” said Troy James Miller, Filmograph producer. “We realized this is the perfect track for this. And now it’s been in my head for the last year.”
“It just made what we did look so much better, because the song itself is so jarring,” Becker added. “It mirrors the characters’ arc as children coming of age, trying to convince themselves that their biggest fears aren’t real.”
“We imagine viewers really looking at this from an Easter egg perspective, just like the show,” noted
Seth Kleinberg, a Filmograph principal and executive producer. “There’s so much opportunity to not skip the intro and to really look at the finite details of what we’ve created, and I think that that’s really special. This is seriously one of our most favorite projects we’ve done.”
The sequence also has literal Easter eggs during its climactic postcard showing the explosion at Ironworks, which took place during an Easter egg hunt in 1908. A girl running from the flames originally was going to have eyeballs popping out, but that proved one step too far Muschietti. “That was too much and we dialed that back,” Kleinberg said.
And just because it’s pretty rare you have three experts in making opening title sequences on a Zoom call at one time, we couldn’t resist asking each of them what was their favorite all-time credits. And the trio came back with: David Fincher’s Seven, Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest and David Chase’s The Sopranos.
Actor Rasika Dugal, best known for her powerful portrayal of Beena Tripathi in the Mirzapur franchise, was recently seen shooting for Mirzapur: The Film in Banaras. The sighting has sparked excitement among fans eager to see the actor reprise one of her most iconic roles.
Dugal, who has been an integral part of the Mirzapur universe since its inception, was spotted filming across the ghats and narrow lanes of Banaras, adding to the intrigue surrounding the film’s storyline. While details remain under wraps, her presence on set has already fueled anticipation for what promises to be a gripping cinematic chapter. Watch the glimpses of the shoot here:
Created by Puneet Krishna and directed by Gurmmeet Singh, Mirzapur: The Film is scheduled for release in 2026. The movie will feature the iconic characters from the series, including Kaleen Bhaiya (Pankaj Tripathi), Guddu Pandit (Ali Fazal), and Munna Tripathi (Divyenndu), along with Abhishek Banerjee. Following its nationwide theatrical release, the film will be available for streaming to Prime members in India and in over 240 countries and territories eight weeks after its release.
With Mirzapur: The Film, Rasika Dugal returns to the world that made Beena Tripathi a household name — fierce, layered, and unpredictable as ever.
For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.
by Alex Billington
October 30, 2025
Source: YouTube
“Just holy steady, Sonny… Entry is looking beautiful.” This is how you do it! Make something for nothing and impress everyone! Reentry is a fantastic 1-minute long short (well, 80 seconds to be precise) made by filmmaker Scott Jeschke. We’ve featured his shorts before (Mimic) this is also worth a watch. It debuted on Twittter and is now available on YouTube in HD (view below). The short is an experiment in showing just how much storytelling you can pull off in 1 minute and how it’s ALL made by Scott, without any AI, or crew, or extra money, or anything. “I retaught myself basic VFX compositing in After Effects, and put many hours into making this a fully-human-made piece that I could be proud of,” he explains. An astronaut experiences an intense reentry into Earth’s atmosphere. But there’s also a very clever sci-fi nod at the end. Click on play.
Thanks to Twitter for the tip on this film going around. Very brief synopsis via YouTube: “Plunging through reentry, a lone astronaut clings to fragments of another life.” Reentry is a one-minute short film created and directed by filmmaker Scott Jeschke – you can view more of his work on his official website or visit his YT page or follow him on Twitter @ScottJeschke or on IG @scottjeschkefilm. He’s currently based in Raleigh, NC and has made other shorts including the submarine short Mimic in 2021. Reentry was created entirely by Scott: “[It was] made in my garage with no budget, no crew, and NO AI. I retaught myself basic VFX compositing in After Effects, and put many hours into making this a fully-human-made piece that I could be proud of.” For more info on the film, visit YouTube. To watch more shorts (and sci-fi), click here. Thoughts?
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The lights are flickering once again in Hawkins. Shadows crawl, memories linger, and the air crackles with the kind of electricity only Netflix’s most beloved world can summon. Netflix invites us back to the Upside Down as the trailer for Stranger Things Season 5 drops.
Counting down to the final chapter, the cast, creators, and executive producers of ‘Stranger Things’ set the stage for what’s to come and where we find our characters at the start of the season, as told to Tudum.
Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), “Eleven is in training mode. She’s in a warrior state, which is the first time you see Eleven like that at the beginning of a season. As for her mindset, all she is thinking about is protecting her friends. Her friends are her chosen family, so she will do whatever it takes to protect them and we’re going to see that.”
Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin), “Dustin is kind of in a bit of a funk. I think everybody probably is considering the state that Hawkins is in, and it’s getting a little bit harder for the gang to keep all the pieces together. We’re all dealing with the day-to-day issues of what it is to try to keep everybody safe and figure out where Vecna is, while having a lot of unpacked baggage from the events in the previous season.”
Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), “It’s always been in the beginning of a season that everything is all good, but this is the first season we come into it and the stakes are the same as where we left off. We haven’t defeated Vecna and the problem is still there. We’re still trying to figure it out and we may not be able to figure it out, so you feel that burden on Lucas as well as everyone else on the show. Everyone is on edge and we’re all just trying to keep hope alive.”
Noah Schnapp (Will), “Will is back in Hawkins this season. He was out of Hawkins for the last season, so now we’re seeing the effects of him being back in that realm. We kind of hit the ground running right away this season, which is really exciting and not how we’ve started any other season. Everyone is all in one place and we all have the same objective.”
Sadie Sink (Max), “We [ended] Season 4 in a tough place for Max. Her final moments were her in a hospital bed. Eleven was searching for her in the void and couldn’t find her, so Max is definitely not the way she once was. There’s still a small glimmer of hope, though, and her friends are hanging on to that.”
Finn Wolfhard (Mike), “Mike is back in leadership mode, and he’s kind of taken it more upon himself to help plan out these missions, and he and the whole gang are devoted to finding Vecna and ending this.”
Ross Duffer (Co-Creator, Executive Producer, Writer, Director), “I think what’s unique about this season is that it starts a little bit in chaos because our heroes ultimately lost at the end of Season 4. We usually set up their normal life and how they’re going about school, and then we introduce the supernatural element. But in this case, this season is sprinting from the start.”
Matt Duffer (Co-Creator, Executive Producer, Writer, Director), “They’re not experiencing normal life. Nothing in Hawkins is normal anymore…their movement is restricted, and there are Big Brother cameras everywhere. So not only are they active — their everyday, normal lives are anything but.”
Shawn Levy (Executive Producer & Director), “The action is next level, the visual effects are next level, but I’m also happy to say that the emotional center remains the same. And part of the magic of this show is that even as we evolve, even as the storytelling becomes more epic, it’s always anchored in these characters that we love.”
For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.
Manisha has established a reputation for insightful and engaging storytelling with over six years of expertise in the industry. With a deep passion for cinema, she brings a unique perspective to her coverage, making it a trusted voice in the entertainment world.
The makers of the upcoming supernatural horror film Kaal Trighori have released its official title track, Mantra Aavahan (आवाहन), which introduces the film’s ensemble cast. The horror thriller, starring Arbaaz Khan, Rituparna Sengupta, Aditya Srivastava, Mahesh Manjrekar, Rajesh Sharma, and Mugdha Godse, is set to release in theatres on November 14, 2025.
Directed by Nitin Vaidya, the song offers haunting visuals featuring a mysterious voodoo doll and a black magic ritual. The eerie visuals raise a chilling question — is this a carefully orchestrated trap rooted in ancient supernatural myths, or is something far more sinister unfolding?
Sharing about how the cast was intrigued and deeply moved by the story, director Nitin Vaidya said, “The story itself became my strongest pitch — whenever I personally narrated it to an actor, they were deeply moved and immediately agreed to be a part of Kaal Trighori. Working with all of them has been an unforgettable experience; each one is not only an exceptional performer but also a wonderful human being. I truly cherish the bond we built during this film.”
Kaal Trighori is produced by Shirish Vaidya, Nitin Ghataliya, and Mansukh Talsaniya, with Rahul Vaidya serving as the executive producer.
For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.
Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.
Experience the story of India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee in cinemas this December. Woh Ikkis ka tha, Ikkis ka hi rahega. Maddock Films and Dinesh Vijan present Ikkis, directed by National Award–winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan. Ikkis is the untold true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra at just 21, honoured posthumously for his unmatched courage and sacrifice during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The trailer of Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda on the big screen for the first time, is out now.
This is a story of courage, conviction, and the fire of youth — the kind that changes the course of history and reminds us what true bravery looks like. Through Arun’s journey, Ikkis explores questions of morality, mortality, patriotism, and the power of young blood that rises when the nation calls.
As Agastya Nanda steps into the role of a 21-year-old who became immortal, Ikkis marks the return of Sriram Raghavan to the big screen with a moving tribute to a real hero. Continuing Maddock Films’ tradition of bringing the most powerful stories to life, this film is not just a war drama. It is a mirror to the spirit of youth.
Every legendary story starts young. What is your #QissaAtIkkis?
Ikkis narrates the inspiring story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. He was India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict. Agastya Nanda plays the titular role, embodying the brave soldier whose heroic deeds and sacrifice remain a significant part of India’s military history.
For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.
Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.
Dancing With the Stars brings the mayhem and excitement of the dance floor to your living room every week. And thanks to Disney+, viewers don’t need to sign up for cable to watch the live show! But what about non-Disney+ users such as Hulu subscribers?
If you’re wondering why you can’t see live episodes of DWTS on Hulu, keep reading.
Yes, episodes of DWTS are available to stream on Hulu, but only the day after each episode airs live. If you’re looking to stream them live, you cannot watch DWTS on any other streaming platform, including Hulu.
DWTS is available to stream live and the following day after each episode on Disney+.
There’s no clear reason why Disney decided to keep the livestream of DWTS on Disney+ exclusively, but episodes are available on demand via Hulu one day after they air on ABC and Disney+.
Cable users can watch DWTS live on the ABC channel.
The following couples have been sent home from DWTS so far in season 34:
Hilaria’s elimination during week 4’s “Disney Night” was shocking for many. After being eliminated, Hilaria took a moment to thank Gleb for being her dance partner and called him an “inspiration.”
“I am so grateful to all of you, I’m so grateful to my children and my family,” Hilaria said. “I’m cheering on everybody in the cast. This has been an amazing time.”
by Alex Billington
October 28, 2025
Source: YouTube
“Savor every minute of this journey.” Tribeca Films has just debuted a new documentary film titled 26.2, made by filmmaker Nicolas Heller – best known as the runner “New York Nico” on social media. The full title for it is Journey to the Finish Line of the NYC Marathon and the 34-minute short doc is out now to watch (view below). 26.2 follows four tenacious New Yorkers in the lead-up to the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon. A long time superfan of the race, Nicolas was inspired by individual stories & motivations of each runner (and walker) who chooses to participate in one of the world’s largest annual marathons. This is their honest story. “Between them, they’ve survived a stroke, cancer, a life-changing house fire, & finishing dead last in the 2023 race. They’re not professional runners. They’re people who’ve been knocked down and decided to keep moving. This isn’t a story about running fast. It’s a story about getting there at all.” This reminds me of another doc called 26.2 to Life, about a marathon inside of a prison. And this year’s other doc on running called Learning to Fly. 26.2 is another engaging & wholesome film that should inspire everyone.
Enjoy New York Nico’s doc 26.2: Journey to the Finish Line of the NYC Marathon, from YouTube:
The documentary 26.2 follows four New Yorkers training for the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon: a retired math teacher, an NYPD administrative aide, a public defender, and an elevator mechanic. Between them, they’ve survived a stroke, cancer, a life-changing house fire, and finishing dead last in 2023. This isn’t a story about running fast… It’s a story about getting there at all. Directed by Nicolas Heller, also known as @newyorknico, the film was inspired by his coverage of the NYC Marathon finish line. Created with support from New York Road Runners, and featuring NYRR’s Team Inspire. 26.2: Journey to the Finish Line of the NYC Marathon is directed by the runner / filmmaker Nicolas Heller, who has also directed quite a few other short films previously. Produced by m ss ng p eces, E 89th Street Productions, and Heller Films. This recently premiered in New York City at an event but not at any festivals, as far as we know. Tribeca will debut Heller’s 26.2 doc directly on YouTube – you can watch it above anytime. Thoughts?
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During the MTV Video Music Awards back in September, Katseye was seemingly puzzled when asked to name a favorite Mariah Carey music video. Now, the girl group is using the viral red carpet moment as Halloween costume inspiration.
On Tuesday, Katseye shared a video of each member dressing in iconic looks from different eras of Carey’s music videos. “All I Want for Halloween is… Gabriela @billboard, does this answer your question of our favorite @mariahcarey music video?” the group wrote on Instagram.
The video opens with Bowen Yang playing a red carpet host who asks each of the girls what their favorite Carey video is. First up is Daniela, rolling in on rollerblades and channeling Carey’s “Fantasy” look. Next comes Lara, singing along to “Obsessed” and perfectly mirroring the Grammy winner’s outfit. Sophia follows in all-white, evoking the “Honey” era. After her, Manon appears in a wedding gown inspired by “We Belong Together.”
Finally, Yoonchae arrives in a festive Christmas look straight out of “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” as fake snow begins to fall. Megan closes out the lineup, dressed in an outfit channeling Carey’s “Heartbreaker” as Yang calls back to Carey’s alter-ego “Bianca” from the video, reminiscent of the “Gabriela” Katseye sings about in their song of the same name.
After showcasing each era, the girls break into a performance of “Gabriela,” while dressed in Rainbow-inspired outfits.
“This is too cute!” says Carey in a cameo at the end of the video. “This is Katseye!”
An off-camera voice asks: “Do you know them?” (Yes, it’s a J.Lo moment reference.)
“Of course, my daughter loves them. Hello?” Carey replies.
On Instagram, the girls also shared more clips with their outfits, including one in the Rainbow look using audio where someone is asked “What is your message to the gays?” before the girls exclaim: “We love the gays!”
The new Halloween visual comes a few months after the group released their sophomore EP, Beautiful Chaos, which included “Gabriela,” “Gnarly,” and “Mean Girls.” They also dropped a remix of “Gabriela,” featuring Young Miko.
“It’s us stepping into our maturity,” Lara previously told Rolling Stone about the EP. “I feel like this era, we have been a lot more authentically ourselves. I don’t have to put on a facade of any kind when talking to anyone anymore. I think that’s a beautiful thing, and you can see that more within the album. You see more of our fire.”