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A European spacecraft orbiting Mars has acquired some of the most detailed images yet of a region at the Red Planet's south pole known as "Inca City."
How this mysterious place earned its nickname is pretty obvious: From space, the natural grid-like pattern of pin-straight ridges, right angles, and polygons looks like the ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru. Though NASA's Mariner 9 spacecraft discovered this area — more formally referred to as Angustus Labyrinthus — 50 years ago, planetary scientists are still unsure what natural phenomenon drove its formation.
"It could be that sand dunes have turned to stone over time," according to the European Space Agency, which runs the Mars Express orbiter. "Perhaps material such as magma or sand is seeping through fractured sheets of Martian rock."
Or, in another possible theory, the ridges could be winding structures related to glaciers, the agency said. The German Aerospace Centre, whose High Resolution Stereo Camera shot the photos, believes the most compelling explanation is that the narrow ridges are solidified lava.
SEE ALSO: NASA asks: Can anyone help us get our Mars samples back? Tweet may have been deletedThe features that resemble walls appear to trace part of a 53-mile-wide circle. Scientists think perhaps the "city" sits in a large crater from an ancient asteroid collision. The impact may have caused faults to spread through the surrounding plain, filled with magma bubbling up.
"Later, the softer material surrounding the polar plains was eroded, leaving behind ridges of the harder components of magmatic rock," the German Aerospace Centre said.
Mars Express has taught scientists a lot about the Red Planet over the past 20 years. The spacecraft has been observing the Martian surface, mapping its minerals, revealing its composition and other aspects of its environment.
An area at Mars' south pole region has been compared to these ruins at Machu Picchu in Peru. Credit: joSon / Getty ImagesThe new photos also found hints of spidery formations scattered over the polar region — features that are better understood by researchers than Inca City. Dark splotches seen in the image below are buried "spiders," or so-called araneiform terrain.
The spiders tend to emerge when spring sunlight shines on layers of carbon dioxide deposited over the dark winter. The sun causes the dry ice trapped below the ice cap to turn into gas, which eventually breaks through the ice.
The grid-like ridges of the Angustus Labyrinthus region on Mars along with dark-splotched "spiders." Credit: ESA / DLR / FU Berlin (CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO)If those don't look like spiders to you, take a look at the image below, taken by another European spacecraft known as the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter. These ice spiders are lying just outside the region captured in the new Mars Express images. NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has also repeatedly photographed the spiders.
Another European spacecraft known as the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter has taken detailed pictures of the ice spiders as well. Credit: ESA / TGO / CaSSIS"The emerging gas, laden with dark dust, shoots up through cracks in the ice in the form of tall fountains or geysers, before falling back down and settling on the surface," according to ESA.
The geysers make blotches about 50 yards to a half-mile wide. These patterns — when seen beneath the ice, as photographed recently by Mars Express — are a sign that "spiders'' will eventually pop out. Scientists think this process, which doesn't happen on Earth, is a key mechanism for carbon dioxide exchange between the polar ice cap and the Martian atmosphere.
Featured Video For You NASA video shows stunning scene from extremely volcanic world IoTL;DR: As of April 25, this Ecoegg Laundry Bundle — good for up to 210 washes — is on sale for just $34.99 (reg. $42.99).
If you are trying to be more environmentally friendly, you can start at home with your laundry routine. There are modern alternatives to the standard liquid or powdered detergent seen on the store shelves. Products like the Ecoegg make it easy to take a more natural approach to cleaning your clothes.
For a limited time, this Ecoegg bundle is just $34.99 (reg. $42.99). This washing system includes a Laundry Egg, Dryer Egg, and Detox Tab.
The laundry egg uses two types of natural mineral pellets inside the recyclable egg to lift dirt and stains from your laundry without the use of harmful chemicals. This could be better for your skin and help reduce all the plastic waste you get with liquid detergents. You also get a lightly fragranced dryer egg to help reduce dry time by up to 28% and soften the laundry, which is a good, less waste-producing alternative to dryer sheets.
The third part of this system includes the Detox Tab. This is used to clean your washing machine. It removes odor and residue from the buildup of liquids and powders. You can think of it as a deep-clean reset for your washing machine.
This bundle is good for up to 210 washes. Although it could be a better alternative for those with sensitive skin, the dryer egg is lightly scented, which might pose an issue for some.
Step into the future of laundry with this planet-friendly alternative to the old standards.
Get the Ecoegg Laundry Solution Bundle for just $34.99 (reg. $42.99).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: AMS Distribution Ecoegg™ Bundle for 210 Washes (Fresh Linen) $34.99 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: Through May 1, spoil the special mom in your life with this Top 18 Splash Wines Assortment for $64.97 (reg. $350), plus $39.95 shipping.
With Mother's Day around the corner, you may be looking to surprise Mom with some pretty flowers. While the standard bouquet is a nice idea, cut flowers don't last very long, and mom has the added chore of caring for them. Why not give the special mom in your life something a little different?
Give her the gift of a variety of wines to enjoy with this Splash Wines Top 18 Wines Assortment, now available for only $64.97 (reg. $350) plus $39.95 shipping. It features a mix of reds and whites and a bottle of champagne, too. You can also pick all red or all white, depending on preference. This price is only available through May 1, so don't wait too long to decide.
How it works:
Purchase the Top 18 Assorted Wines here and get a digital voucher.
Head to the Splash Wines website to redeem your digital voucher.
Someone age 21+ will need to sign upon delivery.
If the momma in your life enjoys some vino, this could be a great way to keep her supplied with some tasty beverages from a family-run business. Splash Wines finds quality wines from around the world to offer customers, from more well-known labels to hidden gems.
Give mom something she can enjoy for more than just a few days.
You can get mom this Top 18 Splash Wines Assortment for $64.97 (reg. $350), plus shipping, when you order by May 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Splash Wines Splash Wines Top 18 Wines Assortment (Shipping Not Included) $64.97 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: Through Mother's Day, give the mom — or moms, or mom-figures — in your life two dozen long-stem farm-fresh roses for just $49.99 (reg. $86.76), which includes shipping. The colors are the farmer's choice, depending on what's freshest.
Whether for your own mom or the mom of your children, this Mother’s Day, express your love and gratitude in a visually stunning way — with a beautiful selection of two dozen farm-fresh roses for just $49.99, including shipping. This tried-and-true gesture says, "I love you, Mom," with vibrant, farm-grown roses. The color will be the farmer's choice, depending on what's available and looking freshest at the time.
This offer gets you two dozen long-stem roses that were handpicked by farmers. Rose Farms delivers straight to customers, which cuts out the extra time and money associated with the middleman.
Here's what you need to know:
Purchase the voucher for two dozen roses for $49.99 (shipping included).
Once you have your digital voucher, head over to the Rose Farmers website to redeem and wait for the roses to ship.
In order to arrive by Mother's Day, the very last day to redeem is May 7 before 12 p.m. ET.
The included shipping is valid only in the continental U.S.
It is recommended that you pick your delivery date to be a day or two before you need them in case of unforeseen carrier delays.
Whether the mom in your life loves to garden, enjoys decorating her home, or simply appreciates the beauty of nature, these farm-fresh roses are a thoughtful option to show your appreciation for all that she does.
Order your gift in time for Mother's Day delivery.
Get 24 beautiful long-stemmed roses in the rose farmer's choice of colors for $49.99, including shipping.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Rose Farmers Mother's Day Special - Get 2 Dozen (24) Farmer's Color Choice Roses For Only $49.99 Shipped! $49.99 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: Through April 30, this affordable and reliable refurbished Apple MacBook Air with a protective case is just $247.99 (reg. $700).
In the market for a reliable laptop that meets your daily needs without stretching your budget too far? Consider this refurbished Apple MacBook Air, which is now available for $247.99, protective case included. This MacBook Air is an excellent choice for students, professionals, and anyone in between.
The Air model was designed to be lightweight and easy to take with you on the go. This ultra-slim one is from 2015 and has a "B" refurbished grade, which means that it's been inspected, cleaned, and in good working order. It also means there might be some light signs of wear on the body.
Equipped with a 1.6GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor (turbo-boosts to 2.7GHz) and 4GB of RAM, this MacBook Air should handle everyday tasks with ease. The 128GB of onboard storage provides ample space for documents, photos, and apps, whether for personal use or professional tasks.
It has an 11.6-inch widescreen LED-backlit display, WiFi capabilities, and Bluetooth 4.0. Its battery can last up to nine hours, and it features two USB 3 ports, one Thunderbolt 2 port, and a MagSafe 2 power port.
To keep your MacBook Air safe and give it a sleeker look, this offer includes a black protective case. This helps ensure your laptop is shielded from scratches or minor impacts, which can extend the life of your device.
Opting for a refurbished laptop is also an environmentally friendly decision, in addition to being wallet-friendly. By purchasing a refurbished device, you can help reduce electronic waste and support sustainability.
You can pick up this refurbished Apple MacBook Air with a black protective case for just $247.99 (reg. $700) while it's on sale.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air 11" 1.6GHz Intel Core i5 128GB - Black (Refurbished) $247.99 at the Mashable ShopThis is Sydney Sweeney's world and we're all just living in it. In 2024, she hosted SNL, channeled her Spider-Woman powers in Madame Web, ate some absurdly spicy wings, and starred in and produced the hit rom-com Anyone But You. Now, she's playing a mysteriously pregnant nun in the religious horror movie Immaculate (which she also produced). While the film is still in select theaters nationwide, you can join the viewing party from home now that Immaculate is available on digital.
Here's everything you need to know about how to watch Immaculate at home, including when and where the film will be streaming.
What is Immaculate about?Immaculate follows Sister Cecelia (Sweeney), a young novitiate who discovers she is pregnant after arriving at a convent in Italy. Since she is a virgin, the religious order — Father Sal Tedeschi (Álvaro Morte), Mother Superior (Dora Romano), and Cardinal (Giorgio Colangeli) — declares it an immaculate conception. As her belly grows, she begins to doubt whether the pregnancy is what she wants and worries that a dark force is at play.
"The heart of the horror here is about Cecilia's faith being used against her," Mashable Film Editor Kristy Puchko writes in her review.
Immaculate also stars Sweeney's fellow The White Lotus alum (from Season 2) Simona Tabasco as Sister Mary, as well as Benedetta Porcaroli as Sister Gwen, Giampiero Judica as Doctor Gallo, and Giuseppe Lo Piccolo as Deacon Enzo.
Is Immaculate worth watching?Immaculate earned $5.3 million domestically in its opening weekend (and has now grossed $21.7 million worldwide) according to Box Office Mojo, which is reportedly the biggest opening ever for the movie's distributor Neon. And considering it only cost a reported $9 million to produce, its theatrical run has been relatively successful. Much of that success can be attributed to Sweeney's star power.
"Props to Sweeney, who not only shows her merit as a leading lady, but also produced Immaculate. While the film wobbles, it shows her fearlessness not only in what she'll take on as an actress (Nude scenes? Blood? Action? Bring it on!), but also delivers an impossible-to-miss message about the sanctity of a woman or pregnant person's right over their own body," Mashable's Kristy Puchko writes in her review. She also calls it "solid B-movie entertainment, brandishing sex, violence, and gore with a heady mix of irreverence and star power."
The critics on Rotten Tomatoes (who gave the film a 71% rating) also largely credit Sweeney's "divine performance" for the success of Immaculate.
Read Mashable's full review of Immaculate.
Can I watch Immaculate at home?Initially premiering at the SXSW Film Festival in March, Immaculate made a splash with its theatrical debut on Friday, March 22. Less than a month later, the film's digital release was announced. As of April 16, Immaculate is available to rent or buy on digital on-demand retailers like Prime Video and Apple TV for those wanting to watch the horror flick at home.
Here are some of the platforms where you can rent or purchase the film online:
Prime Video — $7.74 to rent or $17.74 to buy for Prime members
Apple TV — $9.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy
Fandango at Home — $9.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy
YouTube — $9.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy
Google Play — $9.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy
A streaming release date has not yet been announced for Immaculate. However, since indie film distributor Neon has a deal with Hulu, it will likely be available to stream on the platform within the next month or two. We'll keep you updated with the details once the streaming date is announced. Until then, you can prepare by signing up for a Hulu subscription — we've broken down the nitty gritty details below.
How to stream ImmaculateIf you want to wait for Immaculate to make its streaming debut on Hulu (at an unknown later date), you can prepare now by signing up for the streamer. If you're brand new to the service or returning after canceling a previous subscription, you can even kick things off with a free 30-day trial. Just remember that if you want to avoid charges, you'll have to cancel before the 30 days are up. If you choose to keep your subscription going, it'll cost you $7.99 per month with ads or $17.99 per month without.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu (with ads) Free 30-day trial, then starting at $7.99 per month Get DealIf you don't qualify for a free trial or you want to save some money after your trial ends, you can opt for an annual subscription to Hulu rather than paying monthly. It typically costs $7.99 per month for the ad-supported plan, but if you pay annually, that monthly fee drops down to jut $6.67 per month. Sure, you'll have to pay $79.99 up front, but you'll end up saving about 16% in the long run. If you plan on sticking around after watching Immaculate, this is your best bet.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu (with ads) annual subscription $79.99 per year (save 16%) Get DealTL;DR: Watch Sunriders Hyderabad vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL for free on JioCinema. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
Cricket fans are now well and truly committed to the 2024 IPL season and there's still plenty of action yet to come as players gear up for the 41st match of the league. This season has already showcased some incredible talent and exciting competition, and the latest fixture will see Sunriders Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru go head-to-head.
You can stream this game from anywhere in the world for free as we have all the information you need.
When is Sunriders Hyderabad vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru?Sunriders Hyderabad vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru starts at 3 p.m. BST on April 25. This fixture will take place at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, India.
How to watch Sunriders Hyderabad vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru for freeYou can find live streams of every IPL cricket match on JioCinema.
JioCinema is geo-restricted to India, but you can unlock this streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India. So, cricket fans can enjoy the action from anywhere in the world.
Unblock JioCinema to stream the IPL 2024 by following these simple steps:
Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in India
Visit JioCinema (you will need an Indian phone number to subscribe)
Watch Sunriders Hyderabad vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru for free from anywhere in the world
Most of the best VPNs for streaming aren't free, but they do often offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch IPL live streams without spending too much money. This is clearly not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the best of the IPL fixtures for free.
What is the best VPN for JioCinema?ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking JioCinema, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including India
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Stream the IPL for free with ExpressVPN.
So many books, not enough time. Most avid readers share this sentiment. With so much to choose from, it can be hard to determine what to read next.
Like Alaina Leung, a creator on TikTok and Instagram, said: "As with every bookworm, I suffer from having a never-ending list of books that I want to read."
To help narrow your TBR list, I spoke to a dozen BookTok creators about the books they're most looking forward to reading in 2024. Some of these titles are new releases — The Prisoner's Throne by Holly Black was named more than once, as were multiple Elena Ferrante books — while others are decades, even centuries, old. A TBR shelf is a sacred space, but it's also one we should play with, a kind of ongoing curation of our future selves.
SEE ALSO: BookTok is the 'last wholesome place' on the internet. Can it stay that way?"If you ask me tomorrow, my answer might change," Haley Graham, otherwise known as @whatshalesreading on TikTok, said. "I'm a huge mood-reader, and I can never stick to a planned TBR... I'm drawn to character-driven stories, stories that are a little weird, [and] stories that are poetic or have dimensional characters."
It's easy to understand why TBR shelves are so varied. Creator Marisa Brand said she "honestly couldn't tell you why I added [some of the TBR books] to my list... At some point, something piqued my interest about them — [it] could have been a BookTok review, a friend recommendation, or something I liked the sound of at a bookstore."
Some of the books on your favorite creators' TBRs are part of a series, meaning the upcoming books feel like automatic additions to their shelves. For instance, Kendra Keeter-Gray likes having a series on her TBR because "it's nice knowing that I have [a finite] amount of books left in the universe to keep me entertained all year long."
SEE ALSO: The 10 best books of the year, according to BookTokThen there are hybrid genres like romantasy, a genre of fiction combining romance and fantasy that often includes strong female characters and sex scenes with men with wings. I have not read a single romantasy book that wasn't recommended to me by TikTok. I feel pretty confident about my taste and knowledge with regards to literary fiction, poetry, and other genres, but if I want a fun romantasy read, I turn to TikTok or Instagram book creators.
Same with Sky Robinson, a creator who said she finds "almost all" of her TBR recommendations on the app. Maya Topiwala, another creator, said, "BookTok is an exciting and fun way to learn about new releases and re-popularize books that came out in years past." Creator Georgia Wilder also gets many of her recommendations from friends and mutuals on BookTok but likes to "branch out and find books I haven't heard of at bookstores and online on book subscription companies' websites."
Among the TBR recommendations from creators listed below, most but not all were initially discovered on social media. Creator Cait Jacobs finds new books by looking through publishers' updates, following authors on social media, and, of course, BookTok.
SEE ALSO: BookTok encourages reading as an aesthetic and no one is safe from its gaze"I found BookTok is a great way to find authors and books I otherwise might never have discovered, as well as make me reconsider picking books I might have dismissed too quickly," Jacobs said. "It also helps me keep up with what's happening with series and authors I've loved for years."
Their creator status also gives them early access to information and ARCs, or advanced reader copies. Like Dakota Bossard, a creator on TikTok and Instagram said, "As a BookTok creator I [learn] about upcoming releases directly from the authors and publishers I’ve connected with over the past two years.
"My platform has made it easy to stay on the pulse of what’s coming out and now I’m reading more new releases than ever before," Bossard added. "It’s almost overwhelming, last year I received over 100 galleys, but as an avid reader it’s such a privilege."
So what books are on your favorite BookTok creators' TBRs? Some of the books on this list are new releases in 2024, some are classics, and some are just books that are getting a bit dusty on the shelf. You'll see some repeats on this list, like The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo and The Prisoner's Throne by Holly Black, which means both will surely take off online.
It's hard to know what will become TikTok famous. But from romance and fantasy to literary fiction and classics, here are the books some of our favorite BookTok influencers will be reading this year:
Marisa Brand, @marisa_elle on TikTok and @marisaelle on Storygraph Opens in a new window Credit: Cross the Line by Simone Soltani Cross the Line by Simone Soltani $19.00 at Barnes & NobleAll quotes in the descriptions of these books should be attributed to GoodReads unless otherwise noted.
Let's be real: PC gaming offers the best possible experience for gamers. High-end gaming computers pack more graphical and processing power than any home console, and they offer a level of freedom in terms of customization and game choice that you’re just not going to find anywhere else. But when it comes down to it, do you want your gaming sessions tied to your desk?
While desktops deliver elite performance, the best gaming laptops fit into the modern lifestyle more smoothly. It’s so convenient to take your gaming rig with you on the go – whether that’s to a friend’s place or just to another room. Plus, there’s a gaming laptop to fit every type of player. Whether you're looking for a powerhouse that supports eye-popping visuals, a lightweight notebook to fit snugly in your backpack, or hoping to find the best budget gaming laptop, we promise there's a machine for you.
SEE ALSO: The best laptops to buy in 2024Yet, finding the best laptop for your needs and budget can be tricky. They may be easier to parse than their desktop counterparts, but gaming laptops still require a fair bit of careful spec scrutinization. These are no consoles — you can’t just pick the latest generation system off the shelf and get playing. Choosing between the many graphics cards, processors, storage sizes, and screen types can be a real head-scratcher. That’s where we come in.
Mashable Shopping experts have tested and reviewed a lot of gaming laptops over the years, and we know exactly what to look for. Read on to find our recommendations for the best gaming laptop of the year.
Testing the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i gaming laptop for this guide. Credit: Callum Bains / Mashable What to consider when looking for a gaming laptopAs with any computer — gaming or otherwise — there are a lot of components that make up any given device. You shouldn't have to figure all that out for yourself, though. Here’s what you’ll want to take into account when shopping for a gaming laptop:
CPU: Also called a processor, your CPU is basically your computer’s brain, and will dictate how fast your laptop can process inputs, store data, and execute commands. Your processor is in constant communication with the other parts of your computer, so it’s important that the device’s central nervous system is a good one. In general, the newer the CPU, the better the processing power.
GPU: The GPU (or graphics card) does what it sounds like it does: It ensures that your games can run at their intended graphical quality. The better the GPU, the better your laptop can render details like textures, anti-aliasing, ray tracing, and more (you can always change these settings within your games to better suit your graphics card, but the better the GPU, the closer you can get to those higher-end settings). Right now, the Nvidia RTX 4090 is considered the graphics card to beat, with AMD and Radeon making some of the most popular alternatives.
System Memory (or RAM): Your RAM, like your CPU, is also extremely important in determining overall performance. RAM provides short-term memory storage for applications so that they can access data quickly, storing information that your computer is actively using. Even the best budget gaming laptops should have a minimum of 8GB of RAM.
Storage: When it comes to storage, you’ll normally find yourself deciding between a hard drive (HDD) and a solid-state drive (SSD). HDDs can have a higher storage capacity than SSDs, but at the cost of lower performance. The good news is that some gaming laptops come with a dual-storage approach, opting for an HDD as the main storage method, with a smaller SSD built in that you can dedicate to your more performance-demanding games.
Display: That nice GPU you bought will be wasted if you don’t have a nice display to marvel at its brilliance. You’ll mainly want to look for three things here: resolution, refresh rate, and size. For our money, we say go for a 1080p resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate at minimum. That said, the higher the frame rate, the smoother the action. The size, however, is up to your preference — gaming laptops usually come in at 16-inch,15.6-inch and 17.3-inch displays.
Keyboard: The keyboard is another vital part of your overall experience with a gaming laptop. Comfort is definitely a factor, but you’ll also want to decide whether you want full-range RGB backlight settings (totally fine to skip out on the fancy stuff here), and if you like the layout of the keys themselves. For example, if you find that you desperately need a number pad on your keyboard, you’ll want to double-check to make sure that it’s there — not all gaming laptops have one (not all 15.6-inch options at least, though almost all 17.3-inch laptops will have one).
Testing the Razer Blade 14 gaming laptop for this guide. Credit: Dylan Haas / MashableAmong all of those considerations, the most important are a laptop’s GPU and CPU. These will ultimately determine whether it can run the latest, most dazzling games, and do so at a reasonable performance. They’re also usually the parts that will hold your laptop back when it gets old and dusty. Remember: Prioritize a speedy processor and graphics card above all else.
What's the best cheap gaming laptop, and is it worth it?When it comes to gaming laptops, it's totally fine to not immediately spring for the top-of-the-line, $2,000-plus powerhouse. Plenty of gaming laptops fall below the $1,000 mark and are well worth the money. But, we would advise against going too cheap. You really do get what you pay for, and if you do buy that bottom of the barrel machine, you're not going to be able to run many of the games that you want to play.
Although, if you're looking to keep a tight budget and don't mind playing via cloud streaming, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is a great option (more details on that laptop below). And if you're looking to spend even less, the Lenovo Gaming Chromebook 16 is another solid cloud gaming laptop, which you can read about in our guide to the best laptops under $500.
What are the best gaming laptops?Below, our picks for the best gaming laptops in 2024.
UPDATE: Apr. 25, 2024, 5:00 a.m. EDT Roborock, Eufy, Samsung, and Ecovacs released new robot vacuums at CES 2024, and we're in the process of testing them. We'll continue to shift our top picks in this story accordingly.
There's definitely something to be said for the crisp handheld control of a powerful cordless Dyson. But if you're not one to classify cleaning as cathartic, why not outsource that tedious task to one of the best robot vacuums?
The Mashable shopping team has put dozens of robot vacuums to the test in our own homes, and now we're here to help you find the right bot for yours.
Are Roombas the best robot vacuums?Though Roombas are really good robot vacuums, they aren't the only good robot vacuums.
To be fair, though, it'd be valid to assume there's little competition. iRobot dominated the market from the early 2000s up until a few years ago, so it's no surprise that much of the general public still associates "Roombas" with robot vacuums as a whole. But brands like Roborock and Shark have entered the chat, and we're here to put some respect on their names.
SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuumWe're regularly testing robot vacuums at multiple price points and keeping a list of the top performers based on criteria like smart mapping, obstacle navigation, automatic emptying, mopping capabilities (if applicable), and of course, the effectiveness of the suction power. Our evaluation goes down in our own homes on carpet, rugs, hardwood, and tile, complete with a watchful eye on how seamlessly each robot vacuum handles a change in floor type mid-cleaning.
As we get our hands on all of the new flagship robot vacuums announced at CES 2024, we've managed to narrow your shopping list to six top options. Here are the best robot vacuums for every home and budget in the first half of 2024:
Escapism is bliss, but knowledge is power.
It's why the humble documentary is more important than ever, unearthing truths, offering different perspectives, and introducing you to stories you might not have come across in your short time on this planet.
Netflix's documentary offerings are strong stuff, with many of the streaming service's films and series proving some the most talked about watches of certain times in our lives and others flying under the radar despite their excellence. From Ava DuVernay's examination of the mass imprisonment of Black people in the U.S. to a Sundance favourite about an inclusive summer camp for young people with disabilities, from a true crime (but not as you know it) essential to the Michael Jordan documentary even non-sports fans will love, there's something for everyone to learn in this list.
We've rounded up the very best documentary films and TV series on Netflix, so you can load up on some of the strangest, most enraging, most uplifting true stories, all crafted by those determined documentary makers who spend hours and hours editing their findings into a compelling path.
1. 13th Legendary activist and author Angela Davis in "13th." Credit: NetflixAva DuVernay's 13th should be compulsory viewing, a powerful documentary that examines mass incarceration and wrongful imprisonment of Black people in America and the long, sinister, racist history that has enabled this discriminatory system to continue.
"The documentary, titled to reference the 13th Amendment — the amendment that abolished slavery — not only elevates the voices of those who have fallen victim to the broken justice system, it exposes those who made such a system possible, such as proponents of Jim Crow-era statutes and the multiple former presidents and political leaders that contributed to the Republican Party's war on drugs (which enlisted Bill Clinton as well)," Tricia Crimmins writes for Mashable. "13th extensively enlightens viewers on how a majority of black Americans unfairly serve time in the prison industrial complex." — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor
How to watch: 13th is now streaming on Netflix.
2. Disclosure "Disclosure" executive producer Laverne Cox. Credit: Ava Benjamin Shorr/Netflix"For a very long time, the ways in which trans people have been represented onscreen have suggested that we're not real, have suggested that we're mentally ill, that we don't exist,” says Disclosure's executive producer and Orange Is the New Black star Laverne Cox. "Yet here I am. And here we are. And we've always been here."
Disclosure takes a hard look at the representation of trans people on screen throughout history, which goes back way further than you might think. And with this disheartening analysis comes a discussion of the offscreen impact of that representation, with transgender people portrayed onscreen more often than not as a joke, someone to be feared, or someone who constantly experiences violence. "For decades, Hollywood has taught people how to react to trans people, and that is with fear,” explains GLAAD’s Nick Adams in the film.
SEE ALSO: 67 essential LGBTQ films to stream this Pride MonthThere is hope, however, in how far we’ve come with the likes of Orange Is the New Black, Transparent, and Pose. The documentary, as writer Jen Richards says, gives a sense of a broader history of trans representation onscreen so trans people "can find themselves in it."* — S.C.
How to watch: Disclosure is now streaming on Netflix.
3. "Sr." Robert Downey Sr. and Robert Downey Jr. Credit: NetflixIt turns out that Chris Smith, the director of revered 1999 doc American Movie (with its riotously funny and surprisingly touching take on the indie-indie-indie Milwaukee movie scene), was the perfect filmmaker to tackle a documentary about the last days of legendary indie director Robert Downey Sr. The man behind classic alt-comedies of the '60s and '70s like Putney Swope and Greaser's Palace was a perfect character himself, so much so that Smith sometimes turns the camera over to Downey Sr. so he can tell some of his own story with his signature humor.
But the main focus turns out to be Downey Sr.'s fraught but loving relationship with his son, one Robert Downey Jr. Watching these two gigantic Hollywood personalities sort through their lifetime of difficulties as the elder navigates Parkinson's disease is as moving and somehow also funny as anything any of these creative forces ever came up with individually. Sadly, Downey Sr. passed away in 2021 before the doc was released. – Jason Adams, Entertainment Reporter
Where to watch: "Sr." is now streaming on Netflix.
4. Icarus "Icarus" director Bryan Fogel and Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov. Credit: NetflixDirector Bryan Fogel took a colossal risk making Icarus, one that steered the filmmaker's life in ways he and the audience would never suspect. This Best Documentary winner sees Fogel, an amateur racing cyclist, wanting to investigate doping in sports by taking performance enhancing drugs himself — taking steps to evade detection while documenting any changes in his progress.
Along the way, he meets scientist Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov, a crucial part of Russia's "anti-doping" program, who helps Fogel on his quest. But suddenly, things take a serious turn. This isn't even the half of Icarus, as the dangerous truth runs all the way to the top. — S.C.
Where to watch: Icarus is now streaming on Netflix.
5. Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution Camp Jened left a lasting impact on its attendees. Credit: NetflixPremiered at Sundance and co-produced by Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground Productions, Crip Camp follows the story of Camp Jened, an inclusive summer camp for young people with disabilities in the '50s and '60s that left a lasting impact on the lives of those who attended — enough to lead many to steer the disability rights movement in the '70s.
Crip Camp was created by disability rights activist and Camp Jened attendee James LeBrecht alongside Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker Nicole Newnham, and it traces the connection between the campers and the civil rights movement. "It's a case study in the power of activism," Alexis Nedd writes for Mashable, "a badly needed history lesson, and an invitation for viewers to assess the impact of spaces like Camp Jened — designed from the start to include."* — S.C.
Where to watch: Crip Camp is now streaming on Netflix.
6. Dick Johnson Is Dead "Dick Johnson Is Dead" embraces what the director refers to as "the act of turning toward things that are hard to handle." Credit: Netflix"Now it's upon us. The beginning of his disappearance. And we're not accepting it. He's a psychiatrist. I'm a cameraperson. I suggested we make a movie about him dying. He said yes." Filmmaker Kirsten Johnson makes this bold pitch as her father, Dick, moves toward the end of his life with dementia. In this surreal, darkly comedic, and deeply moving documentary, the Johnsons stage various "deaths" for Dick onscreen to help them cope with the looming, inevitable end.
Together, they test out coffins, mock up elaborate violent accidents with stuntmen, and through some truly stunning slow motion scenes, hypothesize over what heaven might look like for Dick. Essentially, through humour and frank conversations, Dick Johnson Is Dead embraces what the director refers to as "the act of turning toward things that are hard to handle, relinquishing control, and facing what happens at the end of our lives." It's unlike any other documentary out there. — S.C.
Where to watch: Dick Johnson Is Dead is now streaming on Netflix.
7. The Last Dance NBA Commissioner David Stern presents Michael Jordan the championship trophy after Game Six of the 1993 NBA Finals. Credit: Andrew D. Bernstein / NBAE via Getty ImagesTracking the formidable career of Michael Jordan and particularly his last season with the Chicago Bulls in 1997-98, the 10-part miniseries is compelling viewing even for sports newbies. Directed by Jason Hehir and co-produced by ESPN Films and Netflix, The Last Dance blends footage from an NBA Entertainment crew who was allowed to follow the team around for that season, and interviews with former teammates, coaches, managers, and people close to them.* — S.C.
Where to watch: The Last Dance is now streaming on Netflix.
8. Casting JonBenet True crime but not as it's become. Credit: NetflixIf you've at all grown tired or suspicious of all the "true crime" documentaries and series out there — if you feel as if too many are exploitative of people's real tragedies — then director Kitty Green’s 2017 meta-doc might just be the exquisite take that you desire. Quite improbably too, given the decades-long sensationalized subject matter at its heart — six-year-old pageant princess JonBenet Ramsey, whose 1996 murder remains unsolved today.
But Green somehow manages this wild feat, making instead a documentary about the making of the recreations inside her own documentary, interviewing the actors she's in the process of casting for the roles of JonBenet and her family. We hear their theories and thoughts, and it paints a portrait of our own communal lurid obsessions, and what they say about us. A funhouse mirror view of our tacky American nightmare. Pretty pretty. – J.A.
Where to watch: Casting JonBenet is now streaming on Netflix.
9. Is That Black Enough for You?!? "The Black filmmakers of that era were hustling, driven cinema-lovers who worked an early version of independent film." Credit: NetflixFilm historian, culture critic, and writer Elvis Mitchell delves into Black cinema from its early days but focuses on the significant era of 1968 to 1978 and the power of representation in Is That Black Enough for You?!?. Written, narrated, and directed by Mitchell, the documentary is essentially a love letter to Black cinema, the films made during a time when representations of Black people onscreen were often racist stereotypes, and when Black directors, writers, and actors were denied access to Hollywood but still made groundbreaking independent movies.
SEE ALSO: 12 of the best movies by Black creators to watch on Netflix now"The Black filmmakers of that era were hustling, driven cinema-lovers who worked an early version of independent film," says Mitchell in the doc. "Back in this day, 'independent film' didn't mean being a cool, desirable outsider whose success got you access to incredible resources. It meant you were locked out of the theaters by the studios who owned them. You were left to invent ways to get your product to audiences.
"For most of the history of the movies, studios have been content to leave Black money on the table, and Black enterprise has responded, creating, as it always has, a de facto underground economy and culture."
Mitchell includes interviews with a host of Hollywood icons including Samuel L. Jackson, Whoopi Goldberg, Harry Belafonte, Laurence Fishburne, Charles Burnett, Billy Dee Williams, Mario Van Peebles, and more. — S.C.
How to watch: Is That Black Enough for You?!? is now streaming on Netflix.
10. Chasing Coral One of the most alarming before-and-after shots you'll likely see. Credit: NetflixIf you don't know what coral bleaching actually means, what it looks like, and why it's an undeniable indicator of climate change, Netflix’s Chasing Coral will leave you in no doubt. (It's when corals, stressed by temperatures changes, expel algae that live within their tissues, causing them to turn white.) Directed by Chasing Ice's Jeff Orlowski-Yang, the documentary follows a team of dedicated divers, photographers, and marine and coral reef biologists studying the loss of the world’s reefs.
SEE ALSO: 23 climate change documentaries you need to watch because this planet is NOT fineHuman-induced climate change is the biggest threat to coral reefs — more so, even, than pollution and unsustainable fishing. Global warming, rising sea temperatures, and ocean acidification have devastated reefs in the Florida Keys, American Samoa, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Hawaii, New Caledonia, and Australia's Great Barrier Reef. The film shows not only how these ecosystems are inherently connected to ours, but also how devastating it is for the team who sees the reef close up, diving every day to manually track its ecological collapse. There are plenty of archival comparisons throughout the film illustrating reef demise, but nothing will prepare you for the time lapse revealed at the end.* — S.C.
Where to watch: Chasing Coral is now streaming on Netflix.
11. Strong Island "Profoundly relatable, and devastatingly sad." Credit: NetflixSo claustrophobic in its intimacy that it becomes difficult to watch at times, director Yance Ford's personal memoir film is at its base about the killing of his brother 20 years earlier by a white mechanic who never paid for the crime, and the ways that that event tore apart Ford's family in the decades since. But that intimacy echoes outward with every step closer — into conversations about race and gender and who even gets to dream in America. Ford shoots his own face in extreme close-up as he painfully retells his family's story, from the Jim Crow South to the Long Island suburbs, letting us into a world that feels at times too private. But it's also profoundly relatable, and devastatingly sad. — J.A.
Where to watch: Strong Island is now streaming on Netflix.
12. The Romantics Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge." Credit: Yash Raj Films.Bollywood and the romance genre are arguably synonymous, and there's one storyteller who cemented the fact with his extensive, beloved body of work. Yash Chopra and his eponymous studio, Yash Raj Films, are behind some of the most recognized romantic movies in the last 50 years. These movies have captivated audiences within India and internationally, whether with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (a movie so iconic that it's still playing in a Mumbai theatre 27 years later), other '90s classics like Dil To Pagal Hai and Lamhe, or modern hits like Veer-Zaara and Jab Tak Hai Jaan.
In The Romantics, 35 leading Bollywood actors have come together to unpack this legacy, their own roles in Chopra's films, and the history of the film industry more holistically. The four-part series is directed by Smriti Mundhra, the creator of Netflix's Indian Matchmaking, and amongst the producers is Chopra's youngest son, Uday Chopra.* — Meera Navlakha, Culture Reporter
How to watch: The Romantics is now streaming on Netflix.
13. Shirkers "A puzzling reconstruction of paths not taken, lives not lived..." Credit: NetflixIn 1992, three female friends in Singapore collaborated on making their first movie with help from their teacher, a mysterious man named Georges Cardona. Cardona came into their lives as quickly as he departed, and when he left, he took their film with him. The 19-year-old students — Sandi Tan, Jasmine Ng, and Sophia Siddique — were left with nothing but questions.
Cut to 20 years later: Cardona has died, and his widow contacts Tan, telling her she has their stolen film footage in her possession. What follows is an enthralling portrait of the three now-grown friends, including Shirkers writer/director Sandi Tan, and a puzzling reconstruction of paths not taken, lives not lived, and answers they'll never get about Cardona and his motivations. — J.A.
Where to watch: Shirkers is now streaming on Netflix.
14. The Great Hack David Carroll wants his data back in "The Great Hack." And rightly so. Credit: NetflixThe Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal hit the headlines in 2018, as details emerged over the widespread data collection breached user privacy and impacted both the 2016 presidential election and Brexit campaigns. The Great Hack delves into how this happened, the major players, and how we should feel about our own role in this mess.
"In Netflix's The Great Hack...our complacency is not shamed or vilified. Rather, it exists as a blameless reality of an unsolvable problem of the digital age — presenting unknowing consumers as clear-cut victims of Big Bad Tech," as Alison Foreman writes for Mashable.
“For those unaware of the 2018 scandal's intricacies, the documentary plays like an informative thriller, doling out blame to Facebook, Cambridge Analytica, its parent company Strategic Communication Laboratories, and the many culpable individuals therein, while maintaining a well-researched and tense narrative." — S.C.
Where to watch: The Great Hack is now streaming on Netflix.
15. Take Care of Maya The story of Maya Kowalski. Credit: NetflixWhen Maya Kowalski was nine, she was beset by a sudden and unexplained illness that left her in unbearable pain; the next year, when she was admitted to a Florida ER, CPS was alerted, and it was determined that Maya was being abused by her parents and should be in state custody — in a hospital, away from her parents. It's every parent's worst nightmare, and every avenue of what was and what wasn't happening to Maya is chased down by first-time feature filmmaker Henry Roosevelt.
The film leaves us with as many questions as we get answers, especially when it comes to Maya's mother, a nurse and Polish immigrant named Beata who suffers no fools in a world where only fools seem to be in charge. But the ultimate take-away is one of deep and profound tragedy, as the battle between the medical community meant to keep children safe and healthy and their own parents leaves only devastation in its wake. – J.A.
How to watch: Take Care of Maya is now streaming on Netflix.
16. Knock Down the House AOC knocks down the whole damn house. Credit: NetflixWhile the 2018 midterm elections seem eons ago, Knock Down the House is still an incredibly relevant watch knowing the results and where we are now. Following four determined, hard-working, smart candidates — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Amy Vilela of Nevada, Cori Bush of Missouri, and Paula Jean Swearengin of West Virginia — running grassroots campaigns against incumbents, Rachel Lears' powerful documentary sees each pouring every last hour into talking to voters, building their bases, and in doing so, mobilising a movement.
"What makes Knock Down the House so compelling, though, is that it digs beyond the pretty soundbites and packaged-for-TV narratives to show us not just who and what is happening in American politics right now, but how and why," Angie Han writes in her Mashable review. — S.C.
Where to watch: Knock Down the House is now streaming on Netflix.
17. Athlete A Maggie Nichols in "Athlete A." Credit: NetflixIn January 2018, USA Gymnastics team physician Larry Nassar was charged for decades of abuse against girls and young women after more than 100 women — including athletes Gabby Douglas, Aly Raisman, Simone Biles, and McKayla Maroney — made sexual assault accusations against him. It's now 500.
One of those athletes, Maggie Nichols, reported the abuse to the national governing body for gymnastics in 2015 and no action was taken. Nothing. Then, she was denied entry to the 2016 Olympic team. Nichols was anonymously dubbed Athlete A at the time, and forms the core of this enraging documentary streaming on Netflix. Centering the stories of the survivors, directors Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk conducted interviews with gymnasts who came forward against Nassar, including Nichols, Rachael Denhollander, and Jamie Dantzscher, alongside interviews with the investigative reporters and editors from the Indianapolis Star, which broke the story.
Athlete A is a testament to the courage it takes to come forward — the bravery shown by these athletes to revisit their trauma through their testimony, their victim impact statements read in court, and then again on camera for the documentary is nothing short of astounding. But it's also a truly angering investigation into an organisation who failed to protect children over their own interests, creating an environment of control, dominance, and fear that enabled Nassar to remain in his position and continue to abuse young women.* — S.C.
Where to watch: Athlete A is now streaming on Netflix.
18. Circus of Books The now-closed Circus of Books. Credit: NetflixTelling the story of Karen and Barry Mason and their unusual source of income — the infamous West Hollywood gay pornography book and video shop which shares the documentary's name — Circus of Books becomes so much more than just an oddball family portrait amid surprising circumstances. It expands into a portrait of an under-served community through its brightest and its toughest times, while digging into the family itself, and the way their own religious and cultural shames conflict with the world they find themselves unexpectedly dropped into.
Director Rachel Mason, Karen and Barry's daughter, captures an intimacy no outsider could, but also sees all the facets of their tale beyond just her parents and siblings and what Circus of Books, now shuttered, really gave to the world — and what we've lost ever since. – J.A.
Where to watch: Circus of Books is now streaming on Netflix.
19. Challenger: The Final Flight The Challenger 7 flight crew: Ellison S. Onizuka; Mike Smith; Christa McAuliffe; Dick Scobee; Gregory Jarvis; Judith Resnik; and Ronald McNair. Credit: Public Domain / NASAOn January 28, 1986, NASA's Challenger space shuttle exploded, killing all seven crew members on board. Executive produced by J.J. Abrams and Glen Zipper, four-part documentary Challenger: The Final Flight reminds us of those lost in the tragedy, and examines the technical process that led up to the moment of disaster.
"At its core, The Final Flight presents a moving legacy for the brave crew members who died in the U.S.'s most notable space tragedy," Brooke Bajgrowicz writes for Mashable. "Whether you remember where you were when the Challenger disaster occurred or simply want to look back upon it, The Final Flight is there to fill you in on all the details — even those that are more commonly overlooked." — S.C.
Where to watch: Challenger: The Final Flight is now streaming on Netflix.
20. American Factory Wong He (left) working with Kenny Taylor (center) and Jarred Gibson (right) in the Fuyao factory in Dayton, Ohio. Credit: NetflixAnother one backed by Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, Higher Ground, and directed by Julia Reichert and Steven Bogner, American Factory is a sobering, compelling look at relations between the U.S. and China through the lens of the General Motors plant closure in Dayton, Ohio. Chinese company Fuyao moved in, rehired many of the American middle class workers who had lost their jobs, and the documentary captures the result.
"When a Chinese business owner reopens the plant and hires back many of the former employees, both Chinese and American workers must reckon with their opposing manufacturing styles and practices," Tricia Crimmins writes for Mashable. "American Factory presents globalization in a localized context, putting real faces to those affected by large-scale issues." — S.C.
Where to watch: American Factory is now streaming on Netflix.
21. Our Planet Narwhal waiting for a crack in the ice to appear, to access their summering grounds, Nunuvut, Canada. Credit: NetflixSir David Attenborough's absolutely stunning two-season Netflix series, Our Planet, explores Earth's important habitats and the life they support, and shows how they're being affected by rising temperatures and sea levels, ocean acidification, and subsequent wildlife population decline. In the series, you’ll wander through frozen landscapes, jungles, forests, coastal areas and reefs, deserts, grasslands, and down into the dark depths of the ocean to see the devastatingly real impact climate change is having on the animals and plants who live in these places.
Directed by Adam Chapman, Our Planet channels classic Attenborough, artfully and thoughtfully communicating a spectacular sense of how everything is connected, from food chains to weather patterns — and how climate change is affecting it all. "All across our planet, crucial connections are being disrupted," Attenborough narrates. "The stability that we and all life relies upon is being lost. What we do in the next 20 years will determine the future for all life on Earth."
Every moment in this series will make you gasp out loud. You won't unsee the walruses.* — S.C.
Where to watch: Our Planet is now streaming on Netflix.
22. Procession "Procession" goes beyond mere documentation. Credit: NetflixIt's a lofty aim of art to make the world a better place than it found it, even if only by entertaining other human beings for a couple of hours. But director Robert Greene's Procession takes that objective and expands it to the degree where it seems almost like a holy act — one of divine getting-the-good-work-done. Procession introduces us to six men who suffered sexual abuse from the Catholic Church, and documents them turning their pain and confusion into art.
But it goes beyond mere documentation, making the film itself the product of their creative energies; we become witnesses and participants in their reclamations, and it's a profound experience. Greene, one of the great documentarians of our moment, has made a career out of finding ways to structure his films — which also include Kate Plays Christine, Actress, and Bisbee '17 (another masterpiece) — to reshape the world in their wake. But Procession is his most keenly felt and moving work to date, actively transforming its subjects and its audience by its end. – J.A.
Where to watch: Procession is now streaming on Netflix.
23. What Happened, Miss Simone? Nina Simone's story is complex. Credit: NetflixWhat do you know about Nina Simone? You’re about to learn a lot in this exceptional documentary about the singer, classical pianist, and Black Power activist, whose life was no easy path.
Directed by Liz Garbus and tightly woven with Simone's music, What Happened, Miss Simone? examines the star's public career and private life, her childhood in segregated North Carolina, her survival of domestic abuse, her struggle with addiction, the experience of living with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, revelations of abuse against her daughter, and her role in the Civil Rights movement and its impact on her career. This Best Documentary nominee will leave you with a complex picture of Miss Simone, and a thorough understanding of the impact of a song like "Mississippi Goddamn" on the music industry, on society, and on the artist herself.* — S.C.
How to watch: What Happened, Miss Simone? is now streaming on Netflix.
24. Wild Wild Country You won't be able to predict where "Wild Wild Country" goes next. Credit: NetflixWhen Wild Wild Country dropped on Netflix in 2018, you'd be hard-pressed to find anyone with the streaming service who wasn't chomping at the bit to talk about it. Created by Chapman Way and Maclain Way, the six-part documentary follows the true tale of Rajneeshpuram, a commune built in Oregon by Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh in the '80s, and how its followers' clash with the local nearby town (steered by formidable spokesperson Ma Anand Sheela) provides just the beginning of a tale that ends in, well, biological warfare.
SEE ALSO: The 10 best crime documentaries on NetflixAs Proma Khosla writes for Mashable, "Instead of telling you the story of a forgotten cult, Wild Wild Country takes you right into it. You'll start out wondering how anyone could get pulled into such a scheme, then find yourself intrigued by the sannyasins' world and lifestyle. For something that seems far removed from today's society, the series is deeply immersive and appropriately paced. It's nothing if not a wild ride – and a perfect binge." — S.C.
Where to watch: Wild Wild Country is now streaming on Netflix.
25. Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened Every time you think it can't get worse...it does. Credit: NetflixIt was the cheese sandwich seen 'round the world, and the beginning of the end of aspiring impresario's Billy McFarland's biggest scheme. If you believed the sponsored content posted by celebs on Instagram, the first Fyre Festival was poised to be a party paradise, full of kick-ass music, haute cuisine, and bikini-clad models frolicking on gorgeous beaches. Then guests, who shelled out big bucks for an island oasis vacation, arrived to find rusty buses and urine-soaked tents. The backlash and schadenfreude came fast and hilarious.
Director Chris Smith takes audiences behind the scenes of this fraud-filled festival, speaking not only to the stiffed guests but also to the former McFarland employees, who smelled smoke but couldn't stop the Fyre.* — Kristy Puchko, Film Editor
Where to watch: Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened is now streaming on Netflix.
26. Miss Americana Miss Americana Credit: NetflixWhether you're a fan of Taylor Swift or just curious about her meteoric rise to fame, Miss Americana allows you a rare peek into the pop superstar's life. Director Lana Wilson crafts an intimate portrait of Swift, through plenty of interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, taking you into the songwriting sessions of her album Lover, backstage on the spectacular Reputation tour, through her relatively short journey from teen country singer to global superstar, through the sexual assault lawsuit she won against radio host David Mueller, and the breaking of her political silence.
But more than anything, this excellent music documentary makes plain that our loud opinion is the last thing that matters to Swift. As Angie Han writes for Mashable, "Maybe it's not the movie everyone wanted. Maybe this latest reinvention of Taylor Swift, this time as a woman who's comfortable enough in her power to wield it fully, isn't for everyone, either. But maybe, also, that's the idea: Swift, Miss Americana tells us, is done worrying about what everyone else thinks."* — S.C.
Where to watch: Miss Americana is now streaming on Netflix.
27. Last Chance U Dior Walker Scott in episode 5 of "Last Chance U: Laney." Credit: NetflixYou don't have to be a football fan — or even have any real knowledge of the sport — to enjoy Last Chance U. Greg Whitely's hugely successful docuseries is as much an in-depth character study as it is a chronicle of America's most popular sport, following junior college players as they try to balance difficult home lives with their final shot of making it in the big leagues.
Now on its fifth season and third college, Last Chance U is beautifully made, consistently entertaining, and often incredibly poignant, offering an insight into the tense dynamic of the coaches while delving into the underlying issues that motivate (and sometimes hold back) their young players. It's one of the few shows that's hugely ambitious scope is matched by its execution, and you'll probably find yourself binge-watching the entire thing in a matter of days. If you do, though, there's good news — Whitely's new sporting docuseries, Cheer, is now also available to stream. — Sam Haysom, UK Deputy Editor
Where to watch: Last Chance U is now streaming on Netflix.
28. Quincy "Quincy" moves through the decades of music alongside Jones's own life story. Credit: Arnold Turner/Getty Images for NetflixQuincy Jones has been busy for the last 70 years. Co-directed by his daughter Rashida Jones and Alan Hicks, Quincy examines the immense impact the record producer, arranger, and musician has had on music over the last seven decades. It's mostly narrated by Quincy himself, with archival audio from famous friends like Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra, alongside a treasure trove of home footage and new material.
It’s fascinating to watch just how much of the history of modern music Jones has been a part of, and how many "firsts" he achieved as a Black musician and producer in America. Quincy moves through the decades of music alongside Jones's own life story. Keep an eye out for the short but powerful heart-to-heart between Quincy and Kendrick Lamar.* — S.C.
How to watch: Quincy is now streaming on Netflix.
29. My Octopus Teacher Shot over eight years, with 3000 hours of footage. Credit: NetflixDive into one of South Africa's bustling kelp forests with documentarian Craig Foster in the Oscar-winning My Octopus Teacher. Following Foster's relationship with a wild octopus he befriended while swimming in a kelp forest off the coast of his hometown of Cape Town, South Africa, this captivating movie examines humans' connection to and responsibility for nature.* — Alison Foreman, Entertainment Reporter
How to watch: My Octopus Teacher is now streaming on Netflix.
30. Fantastic FungiShowcasing gorgeous timelapse nature photography of toadstools and their brethren rising and shrinking like the living beings they very much are, Louie Schwartzberg's 2019 documentary is the ultimate veg-out trip. Over a phantasmagoria of fungi footage (narrated by Brie Larson), environmentalists, scientists, and other experts are interviewed about the medicinal and (you know) extracurricular properties of these little alien creatures that dot our world’s dirt. By its end, this doc will truly convince you there be magic in them there 'shrooms. — J.A.
How to watch: Fantastic Fungi is now streaming on Netflix.
31. Beckham 'Beckham' isn't just for football fans. Credit: NetflixYou don't have to be a football fan to appreciate the cultural impact of David Beckham, especially after watching Succession star Fisher Stevens' documentary on him. Over four parts, this limited series delves into Beckham's football career all while scrutinising the toxic media obsession with the sports star. Spice Girls fans will relish how much of Victoria Beckham's story is interwoven here, and how much this celebrity couple has weathered from the press and football fans. But beyond anything, you might come away from this documentary shocked at the incessant harassment and hate from fans and the British media after the 1998 World Cup.
As Mashable's Sam Haysom writes in his review, "The genius of the Beckham documentary — directed, somewhat surprisingly, by Succession star Fisher Stevens — is that it caters perfectly to all those groups. Like Welcome to Wrexham and Last Chance U, Beckham transcends the label of sports doc, and in doing so it wins fans in every corner." — S.C.
How to watch: Beckham is now streaming on Netflix.
32. MerPeople Mermaid Izriella in "MerPeople." Credit: NetflixA documentary as whimsical, unique, and fun as its subjects, MerPeople spends time with professional mermaids in order to dive into what swimming into the industry actually entails — spoiler, it's a lot of training. Directed by Cynthia Wade, the series aims to debunk public perceptions of mermaiding, a profession that's described in the series as a "danger art." Its also a half-billion-dollar industry of pageants, competitions, modelling photoshoots, performances, and conventions, not to mention one often requiring you to be able to hold your breath for long periods of time while making it look as easy as breathing.
Director of photography Boaz Freund gives mermaiding the gorgeous slow-motion underwater shots it deserves, and spending time in the pool with each mermaid becomes a joyous, genuinely magical personal experience. The series covers a huge range of what's involved in being a mermaid from tailmaking tailors like Eric Ducharme to mermaids like Mermaid Chè Monique championing inclusivity in the industry. Boasting one of the most stunning title sequences you'll see in a Netflix series, MerPeople will have you wanting to dive into a lesson. — S.C.
How to watch: MerPeople is now streaming on Netflix.
33. The Thin Blue Line Randall Dale Adams in "The Thin Blue Line." Credit: American Playhouse / Channel 4 / Kobal / ShutterstockYou couldn't make a list of the most important documentaries ever crafted (much less just those streaming on Netflix) without including Errol Morris' 1988 masterpiece The Thin Blue Line. It not only revolutionized the medium, but it resulted in the exoneration of an innocent man on death row. Tackling the conviction of Randall Dale Adams for the shooting death of a Dallas police officer a decade earlier, Morris managed to uncover damning evidence about the actual shooter, saving Adams' life in the process.
As is usually the case with the best documentaries, it all began as something totally different. Morris' original fixation was on a forensic psychiatrist in Texas named James Grigson, nicknamed "Dr. Death," whose testimony in capital murder trials led to over 100 executions. But Morris knew right away he had something of more specific importance when this led him to Adams' case, and so he set out to prove it. Trying to frame it into an airtight argument, Morris created several self-described "anti-vérité" cinematic techniques, most of which were incredibly controversial at the time. (Reenactments were very much a no-no in 1988, and those definitely cost The Thin Blue Line its deserved Oscar nomination.) But these revolutionary touches permanently altered the cinematic language of true crime; The Thin Blue Line proved to be its own thin line, with documentaries in its wake forever altered. – J.A.
How to watch: The Thin Blue Line is now streaming on Netflix.
34. Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story Credit: Zeitgeist FilmsSome people live lives too big and rich for one lifetime, and it's taken several of those lifetimes for actress and inventor Hedy Lamarr to get her proper due. When this documentary from Alexandra Dean was released in 2017, it turned out that what we thought Lamarr should be remembered for — the scandalous 1933 Czech film Ecstasy or perhaps 1950's Samson and Delilah — wasn't even the half of it.
In her off-time, in between making movies with Clark Gable and Spencer Tracy, she invented the technology that would eventually become WiFi as a means of helping out the war effort during WWII. A tremendously complicated woman who married six times and became a recluse in her later years, it just turns out that Hollywood was way too small a town for a star the size of Hedy. — J.A.
How to watch: Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story is now streaming on Netflix.
35. Won't You Be My Neighbor?It never seems right typing out the full name of Fred Rogers. That man earned his "Mister" by presiding over 31 seasons of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood on PBS, permanently etching his steadfast belief in kindness and generosity (and puppets!) into every generation of kids who took that trolley ride with him off into the kingdom of Make-Believe.
Nevertheless, filmmaker Morgan Neville's 2018 doc does an excellent job getting us to believe in the man behind the screen. As iconic as the man remains to those of us who watched him slip on that red cardigan through our most formative years, he was ultimately just a man: a husband, a father, a pastor, as well as a gifted and wily producer who managed to get his way behind the scenes when so many of his choices baffled the people paying to keep the lights on. But you best bring a big box of tissues, because no matter how real they manage to make him seem, he'll forever stir up nostalgic whispers of humanity at its very best. — J.A.
How to watch: Won't You Be My Neighbor? is now streaming on Netflix.
UPDATE: Apr. 24, 2024, 12:52 p.m. EDT This list was updated to reflect the latest Netflix streaming options.
Opens in a new window Credit: Netflix Netflix Get DealMeta is going all in on AI – so much so that it is now foisting AI on app users.
If you've been on Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp sometime in the past week, you very likely have noticed that the search bars on all of those platforms look different now. Meta has integrated Meta AI into these search bars, effectively turning every one of its platforms' search features into an AI chatbot.
That's right: all the search bars on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are now powered by Meta AI.
Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp users can now ask these platforms anything within the search bar, and Meta AI, which is powered by Meta's new Llama 3 open-source large language model (LLM), will answer those questions.
Here's the new Facebook search powered by Meta AI. Credit: Mashable screenshotBut, what if you don't want to do that? If a user is on Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp, it's because they want to use the features that those apps are known for. If one wanted to use an AI chatbot, it seems like they'd go to ChatGPT, or a standalone Meta AI platform, or really any of the seemingly endless number of AI chatbots popping up almost daily now.
How to turn off Meta AIYou can't turn off Meta AI.
Sorry. We're not trying to create clickbait here, but we know people are looking for ways to turn this feature off, and we're trying not to waste anyone's time. You simply cannot turn off Meta AI.
If you hate Meta AI that much, the only option that lets you actually remove it from your life as of this moment is to delete your Facebook or Instagram account.
SEE ALSO: 'The Circle' Season 6's AI contestant is a grim reminder of the ubiquity of chatbots"Meta AI aims to be a helpful assistant and is in the search bar to assist with your questions," Meta said in a statement. "You can’t disable it from this experience, but you can search how you normally would engage with a variety of results."
Meta AI has reportedly told users when asked about turning it off that there are ways to do so. But Meta AI is wrong. Remember, AI chatbots can't really think in the ways people have come to assume from watching movies about self-aware AI. Instead, this is simply a language model intent on pleasing the user by providing them with the information it thinks they are most likely hoping for — sometimes even if that information is incorrect.
However, as Meta explained, users can still utilize the search functions on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp as they previously have done. Mashable has tried it out. Searching for profiles, users, posts, and more continues to work as is – no AI required.
In the event that Meta does decide to provide an option to turn off Meta AI, we will update this piece to provide you the step-by-step process to do so. But, until then, Meta AI is here to stay.
But, while the little Meta AI logo in the search bar may be annoying and instances of AI suggestions may turn up at times, users can for the most part just ignore the AI and use Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp search the way they always have.
TL;DR: A lifetime subscription to a Plantum AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan is on sale for £13.72, saving you 71% on list price.
As flowers bloom and the sun sets later each day, it’s easy to see why so many people love nature. Anyone can appreciate a beautiful flower, tree, or plant but not many know how to identify and care for them. Instead of flipping through books or scrolling for answers online, train yourself to recognise the plants in your area with Plantum. This plant identification app can recognise over 14,000 plants in as little as seconds. Check it out for the best price on the web, just £13.72 for a lifetime subscription.
Nature ID uses the power of AI to identify plants, diagnose diseases, and share plant care tips. Here’s how it works:
Find a plant you want to identify or learn more about. NatureID works on more than 14,000 indoor or outdoor plants.
Open the NatureID app on your iPhone and snap a photo of the plant. You could also upload an image from your camera roll instead.
Then, NatureID provides a suggestion of the plant it recognises. Compare the suggested plant to the one in your photo to confirm its accuracy.
Tap ‘Learn more’ to get additional information about the plant.
You might want to identify flowers that line your favourite walking path or scope out houseplants at a nursery. NatureID can guide you on how to choose the correct soil, water, and fertiliser so you can avoid some of the common reasons a lot of plants don’t seem to survive in your home.
Since NatureID was created in collaboration with botanists, it could also help diagnose and care for your plants. If you have a houseplant that doesn’t seem to be doing well, NatureID can help you figure out the problem and possible solutions to make your plant healthy again. You may also use NatureID’s plant journal to set watering and feeding reminders within the app.
Connecting with nature is just a tap away with a Plantum Plant Identification Premium Plan. Get a lifetime subscription for just £13.72 for a limited time.
Opens in a new window Credit: NatureID Plantum Plant Identification Premium Plan (Lifetime Subscription) £13.72 at the Mashable Shop Get DealThere’s obviously something special between you and your boo — and we don't just mean the vibrator. But don't underestimate how much fun sex toys can bring to the bedroom. Even if you're already well equipped with toys, there's no harm upgrading. It's always a good time to add something new and spicy into the mix.
And in this age of sex positivity, there really is something for everyone. It's a golden time for couples' sex toys. If you have an itch, it's pretty much guaranteed that there's a sex toy out there to scratch it. That's quite literally the case when it comes to some of the super-speed vibrators and clitoral massagers.
But don't go in cold. What you need is a guide on sex toys. That's where we come in.
What are the different types of sex toys?There are a lot of different types of sex toys out there. To get you started, here's a breakdown of the most common types:
Bondage gear — Not a bondage kind of person? Why not give it a whirl? Bondage toys are about pushing boundaries and venturing into new territory.
Clitoral Massagers — These cheeky devices target the clitoris and usually simulate oral sex with a sucking or blowing sensation, usually achieved by pumping air.
Cock rings — These wrap about the shaft of the penis and restrict blood flow. That helps maintain longer, more robust erections. Which means better sex all round.
Dildos and plugs — An old school option. They come in various shapes and sizes, and are simply used to for penetration. Use as a couple or on your own.
Masturbators — A masturbation sleeve is a gadget into which a user inserts their penis. It’s designed to simulate the feel of a vagina, mouth, or anus, depending on the model — and depending on your preference, of course.
Prostate Massagers — This might seem obvious, but prostate massagers are sex toys that slip into the anus and massage the prostate. This can result in a whole new experience — not to mention a game-changing orgasm.
Vibrator — The classic sex toy. Essentially a dildo that provides some buzz, quite literally. For both external and internal use, vibrators will usually have multiple speed and vibration settings to help her (or him) hit the right spot.
Keep these categories in mind when shopping around for your next sex toy.
Which sex toy is right for you?For anyone new to the sex toy game, the humble vibrator or a quality cock ring is a great place to start. For couples ready to take things a bit further in the bedroom, remote controlled and app controlled models mean that you can integrate these high-tech gadgets into your love life seamlessly — and do it completely hands free. They can even help close the physical gap for couples in long distance relationships.
What is the best sex toy for couples?There really is no perfect sex toy for couples, because every couple is different. It's about having an honest conversation with your partner about your needs and desires, and finding something that ticks those boxes. If the answer is still unclear, we're sure you can have some fun finding out what works.
To help, we've searched for the best sex toys to suit every need, whether you're a new couple, in a long-distance relationship, or something in between.
These are the best sex toys for couples in 2024.
Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.
If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for April 25's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
Where did Wordle come from?Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once.
Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.
What's the best Wordle starting word?The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.
What happened to the Wordle archive?The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.
Is Wordle getting harder?It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.
Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:Debut a friend.
Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?There are no letters that appear twice.
Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...Today's Wordle starts with the letter I.
SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.
Drumroll please!
The solution to Wordle #1041 is...
INTRO.
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.
Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.
If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for April 25's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
What is Connections?The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.
Tweet may have been deletedEach puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.
Tweet may have been deletedPlayers can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.
Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Science stuff
Green: The Middle
Blue: Things in Microsoft Excel
Purple: Languages that aren't spoken
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Lab Equipment
Green: Nexus
Blue: Spreadsheet Terms
Purple: ___Language
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to Connections #319 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayLab Equipment: BREAKER, DROPPER, GOGGLES, MICROSCOPE
Nexus: CENTER, HEART, HUB, NUCLEUS
Spreadsheet Terms: CELL, FORMULA, SHEET, SORT
___Launguage: BODY, LOVE, ROMANCE, SIGN
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.
Sometimes it feels like everything is getting a little bit worse every day. This latest Windows 11 update is a good example of that.
In the patch notes for Windows 11 update KB5036980, Microsoft noted that the start menu in Windows 11 will now display recommended apps from the Windows app store. In other words, they put ads in the start menu.
"The Recommended section of the Start menu will show some Microsoft Store apps. These apps come from a small set of curated developers," the patch notes said. "This will help you to discover some of the great apps that are available."
SEE ALSO: Windows 10 will start pushing users to use Microsoft accounts. How to turn it off. How to turn off recommended apps in the Windows 11 start menuIn case you're wondering, yes, you can turn this off. Here's how:
Go to Settings
Click on Personalization
Click on Start
Find the toggle that says "Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more"
Turn the toggle off
It's good that Microsoft gives you the option to straight up disable those ads. Take advantage of it while you can.
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