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Will a social media warning really help children’s mental health?

Ask Hank Green to tell you how people get cancer, and he'll tell you about ants.

The video creator, science educator, and novelist will explain how ant colonies communicate through pheromones, and how they're built to pass genetic material not to the next generation of ants, but to the next generation of ant colony. But what if one ant — call him Trent, Green suggests — becomes an individualist and decides to only focus on self-propagation, as opposed to the betterment of a whole? Then Trent and his many offspring will hijack the other ants' pheromonal communication systems, gain more resources from the rest of the ants, and multiply fruitfully. At a certain point, the colony simply won't be able to support the constantly multiplying Trents. The entire system will collapse.

Now imagine the Trents and ants are human cells, Green explains, and you get cancer.

SEE ALSO: Inside 'Game Changer,' the internet's favorite game show

The ant comparison is a very Hank Green description of cancer, which is to say that it's educational, funny, and delivered at a rapid-fire clip that telegraphs his enthusiasm and bolsters our own. It's also one of the most memorable sections of Green's first-ever stand-up special, Pissing Out Cancer.

In May of 2023, Green was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. As he navigated his illness and underwent chemotherapy, he decided that he would write a stand-up show about the experience. "And I would see if I was any good at that," he says in a behind-the-scenes video about the special.

"There were times that were actually funny," Green told Mashable of finding humor in his cancer journey. One moment from his first day of chemotherapy springs to mind, when Green's nurse told him, very tactfully, that "for the next few days, nothing that comes out of you should go into anyone else."

"When that happened, I was like, 'Oh no, I have to do stand-up!'" Green laughed. "The story's too good."

Hank Green performs "Pissing Out Cancer." Credit: Dropout

Green enlisted Missoula-based comedian Sarah Aswell to be his coach, and over the course of eight weeks (including weekly shows), he went from 10 minutes of material to 70. During this time, he sent footage of his act to comedians for honest feedback. Among them was Sam Reich, CEO of streaming service Dropout, which produces series like Game Changer and Dimension 20. (Green himself starred in Dimension 20: Mentopolis.) Reich wrote back and asked whether Green would consider making Pissing Out Cancer a full special with Dropout. Now, it kicks off Dropout Presents, a series of seven comedy specials — ranging from one-person shows to improv specials — that will be releasing on Dropout in 2024.

Green was initially "worried" about the prospect of opening Dropout Presents. "Dropout's first comedy special is from a guy who's not a comedian, he's a TikTokker and and YouTuber," he said. "I don't want people to feel like I'm cutting in line."

"I appealed to Hank by saying, 'if you kick this off, it'll offer a lot of attention to folks with smaller followings,'" Reich told Mashable in a joint interview with Green. "Appealing to his sense of altruism is the way to Hank's heart. That's how you get him to do anything."

SEE ALSO: Brennan Lee Mulligan on the joys of 'Dimension 20: Dungeons and Drag Queens'

Another aspect of working with Dropout that appealed to Green was the chance to candidly share his own cancer journey with a much larger audience. "To have an opportunity to [produce Pissing Out Cancer] in a way that looks a lot better than if I had just done it myself would be better for the material," he said. "If it was just me doing stand-up, that would be one thing. But I actually do quite want to pull the big, dark blanket off of cancer and say, 'it might not be how you're imagining it.' It might be worse, it might be better, but don't have your conception of what cancer and cancer treatment are like stuck in 1995."

Green's candor about his experience was something that appealed to Reich from the very first footage Green sent him. "I imagine that a lot of people can connect to [the material], because unfortunately not only do a lot of people get cancer, but a lot of people are very close to people who get cancer," Reich said.

Hank Green performs "Pissing Out Cancer." Credit: Dropout

Reich also responded to Green's delivery, which he considered especially impressive given how recently Green had started performing stand-up. "It's easy to compare stand-ups to other stand-ups. Hank is very much his own," Reich said. "But he also has this combination of something that feels very personal, almost like Mike Birbiglia does, with something that felt very anecdotal and all over the place in the way that Eddie Izzard is, who I also adore."

"You've put your finger on two of my favorite comedians!" Green added. "Eddie Izzard was my introduction to comedy, and Mike, I'm obviously extremely inspired by him."

Green cites Taylor Tomlinson and Josh Johnson as other inspirations, along with other sets where a comedian grapples with their cancer. Think Nimesh Patel's Lucky Lefty, about Patel's testicular cancer diagnosis, or Tig Notaro's Live, which she performed four days after being diagnosed with stage two breast cancer.

One of Green's biggest touchstones was John Mulaney's Baby J, about Mulaney's struggles with addiction and his experience in rehab. "The whole special was about rehab, and I was like, 'oh, you can do a special that's one story,'" said Green. "That was very freeing for me as a person. Doing comedy as a story is, in a way, easier because you have a beginning, middle, and end set up, and you don't have to be stringing bits together in more nonsensical ways. So [Baby J] was one of the [specials] that I watched right as I was starting to get comfortable with the idea that I might do this. It was sort of a signal that, 'the way you want to do this is OK. That is a thing that is possible to do.'"

Throughout all the laughs, Green never shies away from the hard truths of his cancer journey.

While Pissing Out Cancer follows the arc of Green's cancer journey — literally opening with the line, "so I got cancer" — it isn't without its fair share of diversions. Green weaves the ant-cancer comparison into a conversation with his doctor. Elsewhere, he finds time to give us a crash course in how hair grows. And in a standout bit, he takes us into a fever dream involving the assassination of the Baltimore Orioles. ("I went through all the baseball teams, and they were the funniest name," he explained.)

Throughout all the laughs, Green never shies away from the hard truths of his cancer journey. From navigating the hellscape that is the American healthcare system to the physical toll cancer and chemotherapy take, this is a special that can get heavy. Yet there's a hopefulness to it too, with Green raving about how amazing and miraculous life can be not long after ranting about its many pitfalls and pains.

"Illness is a part of life. Death is a part of life. Cancer is a part of life. It's not going to go away," Green said. "There was a time when pretty much every cancer ended the same way, and it wasn't that long ago, but that is not the case anymore. The majority of people who get cancer will die of something else now. [And with the special] we are pulling back the curtain a little bit and saying, 'it's OK to shine some light on this thing.'

He continued: "I think the biggest piece of good that [Pissing Out Cancer] will do is take the temperature down a little bit and say, 'if you're worried about a thing, you need to get to a doctor, because you're not going to get it fixed without them. But don't think there's nothing they can do, because that is definitely not the case.'"

Pissing Out Cancer premieres June 21 at 7 p.m. ET on Dropout.

TL;DR: Take your IT education to the next level with this Six Sigma Green and Yellow Belt certification training bundle, on sale for just $39.99 (reg. $78.99). 

Navigating the IT field can feel like a maze, but this Six Sigma Green and Yellow Belt course bundle offers a clear path to success. This bundle equips you with the skills to improve processes and reduce errors, potentially making you an invaluable asset in your team. For a limited time, you can get this Six Sigma certification training on sale for $39.99.

Six Sigma is not just a buzzword; it's a proven methodology that enhances problem-solving abilities and optimizes workflows. With both Green and Yellow Belt training, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Six Sigma principles, preparing you to tackle diverse challenges in data analytics, project management, and system improvements.

The practical, real-world approach of these courses ensures you can apply your new skills directly to your job. Plus, the flexibility of online learning allows you to progress at your own pace, fitting professional development into your busy schedule.

Investing in this training could be a strategic move for your career. IT professionals with Six Sigma certification often enjoy better job prospects, higher salaries, and more opportunities for advancement. It’s a credential that demonstrates your commitment to excellence and your ability to lead projects to success. While completing these courses won't give you Six Sigma certification, you'll be well prepared for certification.

In a field where staying ahead is key, these online courses offer you a chance to elevate your career. Get the Lean Six Sigma Green and Yellow belt certification training bundle for just $39.99 (reg. $78.99). 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Getty Images The Six Sigma Green & Yellow Belt Certification Training Bundle $39.99 at The Mashable Shop
$78.99 Save $39.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: Grab this Raspberry Pi and Arduino Developer bundle on sale for $59.97 until June 26.

Some people dive headfirst into home renovations over the summer months. Others pick up arts and crafts projects only to abandon them halfway, and a few channel their inner baker to whip up homemade goodies from scratch. If you're also looking for something to sink your teeth into this summer, why not learn a new skill instead?

This Raspberry Pi and Arduino Developer bundle is an online course collection designed to teach you how to build, develop, and code your own tech projects, and it's on sale for $59.97 through June 26. You know the saying, "Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime"? Well, this is like that, but with tech. Sure, it doesn't include an actual Arduino board, but it packs expert-led lessons that will have you building awesome projects from the ground up.

With courses from software engineer and entrepreneur Edouard Renard — who co-founded a robotics startup and built a complete robotic arm from scratch using Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Ubuntu, and ROS — this bundle is designed to share his knowledge of creating cool gizmos.

You'll learn to tinker with Arduino boards and Raspberry Pi and get acquainted with programming languages like Python and C++. Expect hands-on lessons where you can apply your newfound skills ASAP. Learn to build your portfolio with projects like a complete surveillance and alarm tool, an interactive obstacle detection application, an ultrasonic sensor, and more.

All courses are beginner-friendly, so you won't be drowning in technical jargon. Plus, you can take them on your own time and at your own pace, so there’s absolutely no pressure.

If you've ever wanted to learn Raspberry Pi or create your own gadgets, this is your chance. Upgrade your summer hobby with lifetime access to this Raspberry Pi and Arduino course bundle, on sale for $59.97 (reg. $423) through June 26.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: StackCommerce The All-In-One Raspberry Pi & Arduino Developer Bundle $59.97 at The Mashable Shop
$423.00 Save $363.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Bring home a refurbished Lenovo 2-in-1 Chromebook for only $110.99 (reg. $475.99), on sale for a limited time. 

Need a new computer? Forking over your dough for a new laptop can be a painful process... unless you discover the perks of shopping for a refurbished model. Imagine getting a new-to-you device for under $150? Well, this Lenovo deal can do even better: Get a refurbished 2-in-1 Chromebook-tablet combo for just $110.99.

If you're deciding between a laptop or a tablet, the Lenovo Chromebook doesn't make you choose. And for a limited time, this refurbished Lenovo 2-in-1 Chromebook, can be yours for $365 off the usual price tag.

The Lenovo 2-in-1 Chromebook is a dependable, multitasking computer that's ready to tackle all of your daily tasks, at both home and work. Equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, it's easy to navigate and knock items off of your to-do list in both laptop and tablet mode. It's also gentle on the eyes with an anti-glare finish. Under the hood, the Chrome OS helps you work smarter, not harder, and the fast CPU performance and 4GB of RAM support that as well.

If you're hoping to store files on your device, 32GB of onboard storage space is available to house your important data. This 2018 model comes with an impressive grade "B" refurbished rating, making it affordable without having to skimp on quality. It may have minimal scuffing and potential light scratches or dents on the bevel or case, but will otherwise arrive in excellent condition. 

Save big on this refurbished Lenovo 2-in-1 Chromebook, now only $110.99 (reg. $475.99) for a limited time. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo 2-in-1 Chromebook 300e 2nd Gen 11.6" (4GB RAM, 32GB SSD, Refurbished) $110.99 at The Mashable Shop
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TL;DR: Pay only $95.99 (reg. $299.99) for the Costway 3-in-1 Portable Evaporative Air Cooler and beat the heat this summer.

Did you know that 2023 was the hottest year ever recorded? And as we head into summer 2024, much of the U.S. is already experiencing an early heat wave. Summer is coming in hot and fast, so brace yourself for some serious heat. But if the thought of sweating buckets on your couch terrifies you as much as an abnormally huge electric bill, then it’s time to ditch the traditional air conditioner and consider a portable air cooler instead.

The Costway 3-in-1 Portable Evaporative Air Cooler is designed to deliver three functions: air cooler, humidifier, and fan. And for a limited time, you can grab it on sale for over $200 off. If you're prone to overheating, then consider it an early summer treat.

Evaporative air coolers, also known as swamp coolers, don't work like traditional air conditioners, which are also big energy hogs. Instead of blowing cold air into the room, these appliances cool the ambient air using ice. With a honeycomb cooling pad and two ice-crystal boxes, this cooler provides high-level cooling. No more feeling like you're in an oven. The non-compressor system cools naturally and efficiently without guzzling power like a monster. 

Feeling lazy? The remote control lets you customize settings from the couch. Adjust the 7.5-hour timer, swing feature, and three fan modes and speeds with just a few taps. With a 19.5-feet range, you don't have to move a muscle. The best part? It has four caster wheels, meaning you can roll this air cooler from room to room. Bring it into your office during the day, then set it up in your bedroom while you sleep.

Do yourself a favor this summer and check out the Costway 3-in-1 Portable Evaporative Air Cooler. It normally retails for $299.99, but for a limited time, you can grab it on sale for only $95.99 — no coupon necessary. You can even get free shipping.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: costway Costway 3-in-1 Portable Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote Control $95.99 at The Mashable Shop
$299.99 Save $204.00 Get Deal

How much can life shatter and transform in just two weeks? Writer/director Erica Tremblay's debut feature-length narrative film Fancy Dance wrestles with that question and more in the tale of a missing Native woman and the ripple effects of her disappearance. Featuring an impeccable cast, the movie transcends its straightforward aesthetic trappings to become a dazzling performance showcase. It's a work that beats with fury and despair, even in its quietest moments.

Fancy Dance is a film of strained relationships, of cultural specifics rooted in character, and conversely, of character moments informed by culture. Tremblay brings to life parts of her upbringing as a member of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation, turning in a vivid, occasionally intense film about an aunt and niece on the run from authorities, and from structures hell-bent on doing more harm than good.

SEE ALSO: Summer Movie Preview: Every film you oughta know

While the story concerns the mystery of a missing Native woman, its twists and turns are entirely emotional. The film's most imposing antagonist is the apathy with which her family is met, a dynamic that yields heart-wrenching moments in which optimism collides headfirst with resigned acceptance, resulting in a spiritual tug-of-war worn on the actors' faces

What is Fancy Dance about? Credit: Courtesy of Apple TV+.

The film opens with a playful con at a secluded creek. The queer, tomboyish Jax (Lily Gladstone) distracts a naïve target, while her adolescent niece Roki (Isabel Deroy-Olson) — dressed like her aunt in short sleeves, and trying to act just as tough — steals his car keys. The pair of them have a wordless understanding, speaking Cayuga with one another when most characters, Native or otherwise, seem content with English.

Roki even tries to match Jax's body language at times, crossing her arms like her resilient aunt. However, their behavior diverges anytime the topic of Roki's missing mother Tawi comes up. Jax leaves plenty of flyers around the Seneca-Cayuga reservation and even conducts investigations of her own, to make up for the failings and indifference of the local police and the FBI. Deep down, however, she seems to know she might not see her sister again.

But while Jax is on the hunt for closure, Roki maintains a sense of buoyancy against all odds. She speaks of her mother in the present tense, while everyone around her seems to reduce Tawi to a "was," and she makes sure to prepare for their mother-daughter dance at the reservation's upcoming powwow. On one hand, this seems to stem from innocence and inexperience; the Native adults around her have seen too many of their women killed, or disappear and never be found. On the other hand, that Roki isn't yet as jaded as Jax is an emotional driving force behind Fancy Dance, even if it feels like she'll eventually be let down.

Complicating matters further is Jax's drug-dealing past and prior convictions, which come under the scrutiny of the state of Oklahoma. Its power and callousness are embodied by a white social worker who takes Roki from Jax and places the young girl with Jax's white father, Frank (Shea Whigham) and his wife Nancy (Audrey Wasilewski). (Jax and Tawi's mother died long ago.)

This leaves Jax and Roki with little choice but to abscond, tracking down various leads themselves as authorities remain on their tail. The ensuing culturally thorny dynamics represent larger structural woes in microcosm.

The cultural nuances of Fancy Dance are baked into its story. Credit: Courtesy of Apple TV+

To most non-Native viewers, tales of missing and murdered women (and the indifference of authorities) have only recently come to the fore, through films like Killers of the Flower Moon, recent seasons of shows like Dexter and True Detective, and podcasts like CBC's Missing & Murdered. These historical and genre tales are rooted in painful truths, which Fancy Dance works into its intimate backdrop in skillful ways.

SEE ALSO: Missing Black and Indigenous people don’t get the same attention as missing white women

It's a film whose political outlook is entirely innate, and skillfully woven into the characters' lived realities. Tawi has been missing for a mere two weeks, and while this has turned Jax and Roki's lives upside down, the rest of the world seems to move on with an indifferent shrug. There are a handful of exceptions to be found, like friends and neighbors who knew Tawi, as well as Jax's stripper girlfriend, who passes her scraps of information she overhears. But even Jax's half-brother J.J. (Ryan Begay), a local police officer, finds his hands tied by structures that dismiss Tawi as yet another runaway.

These conundrums are unfortunately expected in a story such as this; Flower Moon, while set a whole century ago, resonates because this brutal indifference persists. Jax knows it too — Fancy Dance is a film in which we even see how the search for missing women has become ritualized, even familiar — which is why she so often steps outside the bounds of local law and tribal methods, "missing person" flyers at the ready, brusquely interrogating people who might know something about what happened to Tawi. The more troubling and unexpected developments, however, involve Frank suddenly reentering their lives after abandoning them years ago.

Frank and Nancy are sympathetic characters who make an effort to understand the nuances of Seneca-Cayuga culture, and the importance of the forthcoming powwow to young Roki. However, their intrusion in the film's fabric is eerily symbolic. They may technically be family, but in assuming Roki's guardianship, they represent a broader and more sinister dynamic: that of cultural genocide, and the forced placement of Native children with white families in order to separate them from their cultures.

These historical ripples don't simply disappear just because Frank and Roki are related by blood, and they continue to radiate outward when Jax breaks Roki out of Frank's home one night. Frank, though he's conflicted, is ultimately the one to call the cops on Jax, despite the harm it might cause her.

There are few moments when these decisions need to be discussed at length to be emotionally understood. This is largely because of how stellar each and every performance in the movie is, resulting in Fancy Dance overcoming even its most consistent aesthetic flaws.

Fancy Dance is elevated by its performances. Credit: Courtesy of Apple TV+

There's nothing ostensibly or overtly wrong with the way Fancy Dance is shot. It just so happens to be a plain and unobtrusive film. Its mildly washed-out color palette seldom adds to the on-screen drama, and it can feel visually repetitive at times, with little by way of rhythm built through its editing. However, Tremblay's trust in her performers is well-earned. While the camera might fail to enhance or emphasize some emotional subtleties, the cast works overtime to ensure these are deeply felt.

Since her breakout performance in Certain Women, Gladstone has proven to be a beautiful force of nature, and they play Jax's frayed edges with aplomb. A strong, reliable presence in Roki's life, the character also experiences moments of moral confusion, like when she's dragging her niece through various criminal scenarios or amusing tightrope heists at lonely strip malls. As a performer, Gladstone seems to carefully consider every relationship and potential consequence during each new scenario, imbuing even the most functionally shot and edited scenes with a raucous intensity.

Whigham brings a similar thoughtfulness to Frank. He bears a sense of burden, which he balances with a spark of hopeful (if misguided) desire to atone, resulting in the corners of the film being fleshed out with a complex empathy for a figure meant to be symbolically villainous. However, the film's secret weapon is Deroy-Olson in her first feature role. It's hard to match a talent like Gladstone, but the young newcomer creates a vibrant sense of shared history through moments of mischief and gentleness built on mutual trust.

Roki is given plenty to say, but at the risk of paying a backhanded compliment to Deroy-Olson, these lines may as well be perfunctory, given how incredibly and imaginatively she performs each moment of fear and childlike desire, wrestling silently between them. Without a word, she turns Roki's expressions into an emotional roadmap. During a scene when Roki revisits taped footage of herself dancing with her mother, the love and longing in her eyes is enrapturing; it feels like Deroy-Olson might float towards the TV screen.

What Fancy Dance lacks in cinematic flair, it more than makes up for in human drama, resulting in a deeply moving piece about characters left stranded far off-shore, with little to hold onto but each other. When it works, it works like a charm.

Fancy Dance opens in select theaters June 21, before premiering on Apple TV+ June 28.

Kinds of Kindness begins with the pulsing beat of Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)." Hearing Annie Lennox and the sharpened notes of Dave Stewart's synth over the title sequence of the latest film of Yorgos Lanthimos is a reminder that the director has rarely moved quietly. After the crowd-pleasing opening, which caused my Cannes audience to clap in unison, Lanthimos surprisingly switches gears — and not for the better. 

Kinds of Kindness features his heralded recent Poor Things collaborators, like Willem Dafoe, Emma Stone, and Margaret Qualley, with new additions like the excellent Jesse Plemons and Hong Chau. However, it doesn't have the same spry spirit of his recent mainstream successes, like the Best Picture–nominated Poor Things, the royal sapphic comedy The Favourite, or even the Colin Farrell–fronted The Lobster.

A tryptic fable told over the span of 164 minutes, Kinds of Kindness is a prickly, dark offering that returns the Greek filmmaker to his unconventional roots, his older, spikier films like Kinetta and Dogtooth. It's a return, however, that doesn't wholly fit. Like a person trying on an old school uniform only to find it now feels unfamiliar, Kinds of Kindness — despite Plemons' best efforts — is a shaggy imitation of the director's previous era.

What's Kinds of Kindness about? Credit: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures

Reteaming with his Greek co-writer Efthimis Filippou (Dogtooth, The Lobster, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer), Lanthimos offers three short films whose stories are only thematically connected. His cast recurs across these shorts, playing different roles.

In the first absurdist story, "The Death of R.M.F.," Raymond (Dafoe) is a wealthy businessman who dispatches his groveling assistant Robert (Plemons) to purposely crash into the car of a specific stranger. This isn't the first time Raymond has ordered Robert to carry out a risky task for his own amusement. Raymond, in fact, handsomely compensates Robert by furnishing a lush lifestyle that includes his wife Sarah (Chau), a luxe home, a gleaming SUV, and other exorbitant gifts, like one of John McEnroe's smashed rackets. All Robert has to do is allow Raymond to control every aspect of his life. But when Robert he says "no" for the first time, his decision leads to dire consequences.

Part two, "R.M.F. Is Flying," is a mix of The Lobster and Gone Girl. This time, Plemons plays Daniel, a quiet cop whose wife has gone missing. But once she returns, he worries Liz (Stone) might be an imposter, leading to strange tests for his theory. 

In part three, "R.M.F. Eats a Sandwich," Emily (Stone) and Andrew (Plemons) are a pair of investigators for a cult led by Omi (Dafoe) and Aka (Chau). They are searching the country for a prophesied person with the ability to raise people from the dead. Their search will lead Emily back to the life she left behind, putting her standing in the cult in jeopardy. 

In Kind of Kindness, Plemons proves he can't miss. Credit: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures

Through every section of Kinds of Kindness, you get the sense that none of this would work without Plemons. While this is the fourth collaboration between Lanthimos and Stone (The Favourite, Bleat, and Poor Things being the others), Plemons, surprisingly, has not previously worked with the Greek director. 

As seen most recently in The Power of the Dog and Civil War, Plemons' uncanny ability to infuse leading-man gravitas into oddball characters brings a haunting and fragile energy to Kinds of Kindness. Plemons is a necessary addition. Each short begins with a burst of provocative energy, held together by Plemons making you believe that each seemingly disparate man he's playing is cut from the same cloth and is therefore worth getting to know. But despite his best efforts, each short eventually fizzles under the pressure of its own conceit. 

The first section, arguably the strongest, remains fascinating because of Plemons. Once Lanthimos reveals the reality of Robert's situation — exactly how absurdly controlled his life under Raymond is — it's only Plemons' unmatched ability to play pitiful characters that keeps the audience engaged. His dedication makes for one of the film's best scenes, in which a desperate Robert employs a violent scheme to attract a woman's attention. The deadpan Plemons plays in these hapless scenes with aplomb, especially when Qualley comes into the picture, beguiled by his buffoonery.

The other sections, however, offer progressively diminishing returns. Plemons is subtler in "R.M.F. Is Flying," translating the psychological angst of a disquieted husband to give the paranoid narrative some type of heady propulsion. Of the three parts, "R.M.F. Is Flying" is also probably the bloodiest, wielding body horror as a kind of love language with a touching dexterity that eventually loses its thoughtfulness once the conceit runs to its logical conclusion. 

Kinds of Kindness is mind-numbingly obvious. Credit: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures

On a thematic level, Lanthimos and Filippou are to the point: Each short is a type of kindness that leads to brutal results. There are some other key features: opulence, marriage, sex, and godlike figures. These arrive to unbalance the viewer. Lanthimos, particularly in his early work, is often most engaging when he is cutting the audience down to size, daring to elicit a(ny) response from them. In Kinetta, it was a group of people reenacting murders; in Dogtooth, there was incest; The Lobster opens with a woman coldly shooting a donkey. But in Kinds of Kindness, where every component exists on the surface, the entirety of the picture lacks a deeper register. 

There is no soul underneath the flash. It's all pure spectacle. And maybe that is the point: the vapidity of the onscreen cannibalism, kidnapping, and sex matches how our contemporary society is often consumed by buzzy headlines, trending topics, viral videos, and unmitigated wealth. But those components, even when taken together, do not often add up to a satisfying whole — partly because Lanthimos doesn't lean on Plemons enough and, for the most part, eschews emotionality in favor of provocation. The latter decision isn't wholly surprising. Stoicism has always been a component of Lanthimos' films, from Colin Farrell's deadpan observations in The Killing of a Sacred Deer to Rachel Weisz's severe sensuality in The Favourite; he likes his actors to nimbly balance tones. 

As such, a number of scenes — like when Sarah discovers that her husband Robert sterilized her at Raymond's bidding or when Emily is matter-of-factly waiting in line to have sex with a cult leader — walk the line between comedy and shock. But where once there was soulfulness beneath Lanthimos' antagonization, here, it's just titillation without any further thought or philosophy behind his restless prodding.   

By the time we reach the third story, "R.M.F. Eats a Sandwich," the focus has shifted to Emma Stone. The Best Actress Oscar–winner portrays Emily as a keen observer torn between the love for the daughter she abandoned to join a cult and her loyalty to cult leader Omi (a lascivious Dafoe). While much of the film concerns the purity of acts, the third section takes that interest to the extreme. All the members of Omi's cult must have pure fluids in their body; they can't have sex with anyone but Omi and Aka. It's a doctrine that puts Emily in direct conflict with her ex-husband (Joe Alwyn). Still, in her purple Dodge Challenger, with the stoic Andrew (Plemons) by her side, she dutifully zips from town to town, into the morgues where Will (an underrated Mamoudou Athie) works, searching for a person capable of raising the dead. 

Though Plemons and Stone have tremendous chemistry during the first two parts to Kinds of Kindness, their sizzle dwindles in the third section. It's frankly an odd turn of events. Throughout "R.M.F. Eats a Sandwich," it often feels like Stone is miscast. There is a mysteriousness to Emily, to her past and the parts of herself she keeps buried, that Stone struggles to tease out. 

Such an unfocused performance is exhausting to endure, giving very little payoff to sit through the onscreen shock. Even when an underused Qualley emerges, an actress with a reputation for dynamism, particularly in Drive-Away Dolls, the pulse of the film doesn't return. Rather, Qualley's signature energy is undercut playing a character, who, like Plemons, purely exists on the periphery as an enigma. 

Ultimately, Kinds of Kindness circles the drain as more of a thought experiment of the types of cruelty that can emerge in the universe. It's a film incapable of inciting the type of staggering, profoundly smart character-work involving doomed individuals that was the hallmark of Lanthimos' early work. Fans hoping to see a return to his formerly subversive voice will only find a poor thing.

Kinds of Kindness opens in theaters June 21.

This year has already gifted us some pretty great TV shows, but what about great episodes? I'm talking about the kind of episode that makes you laugh nonstop, or stand up and cheer, or force you to such points of emotional devastation you can't think of anything else.

SEE ALSO: The 13 best TV shows of 2024 (so far)

You'll find episodes that accomplish all these things and more on our list of the best episodes of 2024. Whether you love drama or comedy, narrative shows or reality TV, we can assure you that the following 13 episodes are absolute bangers. Who knows — maybe you'll find some new and wonderful show to check out!

So without further ado, here are the 13 best episodes of 2024 so far, and where to watch them.

13. Game Changer, Season 6, episode 7, "Beat the Buzzer" Becca Scott, Rekha Shankar, and Erika Ishii in "Game Changer." Credit: Dropout

The joy of Dropout's game show Game Changer comes from its sheer versatility. Each episode, contestants don't know the rules of the game until they start playing. The result is delightful chaos.

SEE ALSO: Inside 'Game Changer,' the internet's favorite game show

Nowhere is that chaos more apparent on Game Changer Season 6 than in "Beat the Buzzer," an episode which removes a key component of any quiz show: the buzzer itself. Players Rekha Shankar, Becca Scott, and Erika Ishii must compete in a series of mini-games in order to gain access to the many buzzers hidden around Dropout HQ. They'll destroy cakes, make a witch's brew, plead with strangers in the street, and more, all in the hopes of getting some sweet, sweet points. Endlessly inventive, and less competitive than it is sweet and collaborative, "Beat the Buzzer" will have you smiling nonstop from start to finish. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Game Changer is now streaming on Dropout.

12. 3 Body Problem, Season 1, episode 5, "Judgment Day" Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

Netflix's 3 Body Problem has more than a few spectacles, from winking stars to the many levels of a way-too-real VR game. But it's episode 5 that takes the cake, or a slice of it at least, thanks to a truly horrifying sequence.

SEE ALSO: '3 Body Problem' creators on *that* horrifying scene from episode 5

Aboard Judgment Day, the repurposed tanker HQ of oil magnate Mike Evans (Jonathan Pryce) and his Earth-Trisolaris Organization (ETO), a thousand people — including children — await the arrival of the aliens known as the San-Ti. Problem is, they've just gone cold on Evans after a bedtime story. In the climax of the episode, the ship sails through through the Panama Canal, where a fatal trap awaits. Auggie Salazar's (Eiza González) super-thin nanotechnology is deployed by Strategic Intelligence Agency head Thomas Wade (Liam Cunningham) against the ship, effectively functioning as a large-scale egg slicer through its bow. Taken directly from Cixin Liu's book, it's one of the most horrifying scenes you'll see on TV this year. The repercussions will send the characters into a moral spiral, especially Auggie, whose entire science career has been turned into a massacre. But in this episode, we also find out exactly what the San-Ti's intentions are, as the incoming aliens declare the human race to be "bugs," scaring the shit out of everyone with their sophon sentient supercomputer, and revealing worldwide surveillance. It's a lot. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: 3 Body Problem is now streaming on Netflix.

11. One Day, Season 1, episode 13, "Episode 13" Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall in "One Day." Credit: Ludovic Robert / Netflix

There are few episodes that will send you through an emotional upheaval as intense as One Day's penultimate chapter, set over several years of our beloved protagonist's lives. Finally together after decades of what we'll put down to bad timing, Emma (Ambika Mod) and Dexter (Leo Woodall) have a whole future ahead of them, side by side. We accompany this besotted pair through their wedding plans, a new business, trying for a baby, and establishing family bonds with Dex's daughter. It's everyday life in all its romantic mundanity, from brushing teeth together to arguing over the news, and it's all we've wanted for these two for the previous 12 episodes. However, a tragic turn means a cruel end, and a voice note holds more power than Em and Dex can possibly know at the time. The shell shock of this episode of One Day will stay with you through the finale and long after you've watched. Call the people you love, right now. — S.C.

How to watch: One Day is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: Netflix's 'One Day' explores the challenges of dating across the class divide 10. The Traitors UK Season 2, episode 12, "Episode 12" Credit: BBC / Studio Lambert

The entirety of The Traitors Season 2 was TV at its most binge-watchable, but the finale took things to dizzy new heights of tension. A reality TV game show with a cash prize, The Traitors sees members of the public divided into "traitors" and "faithfuls" while carrying out missions in a Scottish castle; the faithfuls have to try and banish all the traitors, while the traitors must "murder" (the game show kind, not the actual kind) all the faithfuls without getting caught. The entire show is great, but what made the finale stand out was the elite levels of treachery displayed by Harry Clark, a contestant who'd been a traitor from the very beginning but who'd manage to convince everybody else that he was faithful through and through. The brutal levels of suspense and the looks on everyone's faces when they realize the truth is television at its finest. — Sam Haysom, Deputy UK Editor

How to watch: The Traitors UK is now streaming on Peacock.

9. Bluey, Season 3, episode 49, "The Sign" Credit: Ludo Studio

In an endless desert of insipid TV shows aimed at kids, Bluey has proved an oasis for grown-ups. Spirited, silly, and emotionally intelligent, the show's standard seven-minute episodes are a pleasure for audiences of all ages. But show creator Joe Brumm leveled up with the super-sized 28-minute episode "The Sign." 

SEE ALSO: 'Bluey' special episode 'The Sign' had a ton of Easter eggs for fans

It wasn't just that this very special episode was four times as long as usual eps, or that it offered a big wedding and a series of teachable moments for pups and big dogs alike. "The Sign" also centered on a heart-wrenching storyline about the Heeler family preparing to move away from their home, a space that fans knew every nook and cranny of, for parts unknown. As Bluey and her little sister Bingo must learn to say goodbye, watchers young and old wept over the loss. But there were tears of joy as well because — beyond a third-act twist that caused cheers across social media — Brummer also laced in Easter eggs that revealed positive news for a string of beloved supporting characters. Incredibly, it's a cartoon show about a playful puppy that has provided the biggest — yet briefest — emotional roller coaster ride of 2024. —Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Bluey is now streaming on Disney+.

8. Doctor Who, Season 14, episode 6, "Rogue" Jonathan Groff and Ncuti Gatwa in "Doctor Who." Credit: Disney+

Doctor Who bested Bridgerton when it comes to queer romance with this Regency-era episode, and we're still swooning. 

SEE ALSO: 'Doctor Who's Easter eggs for 'Rogue,' far beyond 'Bridgerton'

The Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) and his bestie Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) travel back to 1813 in Bath, England, just to take in the period appeal of balls and courting. But when a murderous alien shapeshifter is discovered in their midst, the Doctor must team up with a new ally named Rogue (a dashing Jonathan Groff), to save the day. Whovians were thrilled with the intersection of monster-of-the-week fun and Bridgerton drama. But what made this episode the best of a solid season from returning showrunner Russell T Davies is the scorching romance between the Doctor and Rogue. Their enemies-to-lovers arc was swift and satisfying, featuring biting banter, tense misunderstandings, a flashy proposal, a kiss, and a not-so-simple request: "Come find me." 

The series will whir on, but our hearts — and the Doctor's — will not soon forget this debonair lost love. —K.P.

How to watch: Doctor Who is now streaming on Disney+.

7. Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Season 1, episode 5, "Do You Want Kids?" Donald Glover, Ron Perlman, and Maya Erskine in "Mr. & Mrs. Smith." Credit: David Lee / Prime Video

Every episode of Mr. & Mrs. Smith examines an aspect of romantic relationships through the lens of a spy mission, and while the show as a whole is a blast, nowhere is it more fun than in its fifth episode, "Do You Want Kids?"

Here, John (Donald Glover) and Jane (Maya Erskine) have to protect a reluctant asset named Toby (Ron Perlman) as he comes under attack from rival spies. Between chase scenes and shootouts through Lake Como, Toby essentially become the Smiths' child, whining about taking medicine and fussing around in the backseat. Meanwhile, the Smiths — the portrait of frazzled parenthood — evaluate their own relationship. Hilarious and action-packed, "Do You Want Kids?" is one hell of a ride, made all the better by the visual gag of two people having to baby Ron Perlman, of all people. — B.E.

How to watch: Mr. & Mrs. Smith is now streaming on Prime Video.

6.True Detective: Night Country, Season 4, episode 5, "Part 5" Finn Bennett in "True Detective: Night Country." Credit: Michele K. Short / HBO

While earlier True Detective: Night Country episodes gave us plenty of buzzworthy moments — all hail the corpsicle! — it's the show's fifth episode that really sticks in our minds. Here, the many threads of the season begin to converge, joining Night Country's oft-present ghosts and grief to the more human evils our detectives are facing down. Tensions boil over at the Silver Sky mines, we uncover further secrets from Danvers (Jodie Foster) and Navarro's (Kali Reis) Wheeler investigation, and we finally understand Hank's (John Hawkes) true involvement in the Annie Kowtok (Nivi Pedersen) cold case. The entire episode culminates in a brutal father-son clash, complete with a tooth-centric moment I'll never forget. Ennis, Alaska may already be drenched in eternal night, but this episode takes us far deeper into the darkness. — B.E.

How to watch: True Detective: Night Country is now streaming on Max.

5. Expats, Season 1, episode 4, "Mainland" Sarayu Blue in "Expats." Credit: Jupiter Wong / Prime Video

Claustrophobia proves fruitful in "Mainland," the fourth episode of Lulu Wang's Hong Kong-set Expats. Our trio of leads each find themselves walled-in here in different ways, and the gradually increasing pressure reveals painful secrets.

SEE ALSO: How to watch Nicole Kidman's show 'Expats'

Margaret (Nicole Kidman) and her husband Clarke (Brian Tee) wait in a morgue to identify a body that might be that of their missing son Gus. Each wants a different outcome: Clarke needs the body to be Gus, in the hopes that the family can grieve and get closure on this nightmarish period of their lives. Margaret needs it not to be, so she can continue searching. Elsewhere, Mercy (Ji-young Yoo) reckons with the fact that she might be pregnant with her affair partner David's (Jack Huston) child. But is she ready for motherhood? The episode's most affecting storyline belongs to Hilary (Sarayu Blue), whose own mother (Sudha Bhuchar) bursts in for a visit, criticizing her every move. When the two find themselves trapped in an elevator, Hilary bites back with a chilling childhood story of witnessing her father's abuse of her mother. It's an unforgettable scene in an episode that forces us to sit alongside our leads as they contemplate the horrors of an unknowable future. — B.E.

How to watch: Expats is now streaming on Prime Video.

4. Ripley, Season 1, episode 3, "III Sommerso" Andrew Scott and Johnny Flynn in "Ripley." Credit: Lorenzo Sisti / Netflix

With striking black-and-white cinematography and a cast that was more compelling than accurate to the source material's descriptions, Steven Zaillian's adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's delectably deranged novel The Talented Mr. Ripley was as bold as it was slyly seductive.

SEE ALSO: Andrew Scott on crafting the iconic 'Ripley' in Netflix's new mystery series

The series as a whole proves a showcase for leading man Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers), who transforms from a timid social climber to a sleek killer. But episode three, when the eponymous anti-hero gets his hands dirty, is the best of the batch. Here, Tom's relationship with the carefree American heir Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn) sours, so a day trip in Italy turns from mirthful to murderous. Yet the violence isn't as disturbing as the aftermath, which delves into ASMR in a brilliant way. Tom, left to his own devices, is surrounded by the sounds of covering up his crime. And we are bound to him, a silent witness — or accomplice — left to wonder if we're rooting for him to be caught or get off scot-free. —K.P.

How to watch: Ripley is now streaming on Netflix.

3. Interview with the Vampire, Season 2, episode 3, "No Pain" Jacob Anderson, Assad Zaman, and Sam Reid in "Interview with the Vampire." Credit: Larry Horricks / AMC

Sure, the second half of Interview with the Vampire Season 2 has fans of the series — as well as the source text by Anne Rice — salivating for more, more, more. Rightly so, as Rolin Jones' daringly different adaptation has brought fresh blood to the toxic romance between vampires Louis (Jacob Anderson) and Lestat (Sam Reid). But with "No Pain," Jones teased some details that would come back to haunt us as we watched those biting latter eps. 

SEE ALSO: 'Interview with the Vampire' Season 2 review: Theater, romance, and bloody good TV

In "No Pain," human journalist Daniel Molloy (Eric Bogosian) meets a member of the Talamasca — a secret society that's getting its own spinoff series. This episode also touches on the heart-wrenching tragedy of Lestat's lost Nicki. Not only that, but it pulls details from The Vampire Armand, The Vampire Lestat, and The Tale of the Body Thief, and it introduces the perspective of Louis' current curious paramour, Armand (Assad Zaman). The reveals of episode 5 and beyond wouldn't hit as hard if you didn't know the shared heartache and hatred Louis and Armand have for Lestat. Plus, this episode gives us those two in goo-goo couple mode — much to the annoyance of the deeply unsentimental Daniel — and the vampire Lestat in full theater kid mode, flashing his smile and his ass with equal panache. To top it all off, there's the hopefulness of Claudia joining the theater coven, a move we all know will come to no good. There's a lot of bangers this season, but "No Pain" is the one that lingers. — K.P.

How to watch: Interview with the Vampire is now streaming on AMC+.

2. Baby Reindeer, Season 1, episode 6, "Episode 6" Richard Gadd in "Baby Reindeer." Credit: Ed Miller / Netflix

Many Baby Reindeer episodes could have found a home on this list, including a tragic, flashback-centric fourth episode that lends new context to comedian Donny Dunn's (Richard Gadd) relationship with stalker Martha (Jessica Gunning). But it's the sixth episode where Baby Reindeer reaches a fever pitch, as Donny delivers a barn-burning, 10-minute monologue about his trauma and shame onstage at a comedy show. Long, unbroken close-ups and Gadd's arresting performance make this confessional one you can't look away from, no matter how painful it gets. — B.E.

How to watch: Baby Reindeer is now streaming on Netflix.

1. Shōgun, Season 1, episode 9, "Crimson Sky" Anna Sawai in "Shōgun." Credit: Katie Yu / FX

Do you ever watch an episode of TV and think, "What in the world could possibly top that?" Well, that was my reaction to Shōgun's "Crimson Sky," a perfect hour of television that reaches peaks of heartbreak and suspense that have yet to be replicated this year.

SEE ALSO: 'Shōgun' writers on saying goodbye to Mariko in 'devastating' episode 9

The entire episode centers on Toda Mariko's (Anna Sawai, giving the TV performance of 2024) final diplomatic mission for Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada). It's a mission that requires her to face down her own mortality at several points, including a sharp-tongued royal audience and a gate encounter that is a masterclass in tension. Add in poetic, deeply felt conversations between Mariko, Lady Ochiba (Fumi Nikaido), and John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), and there's no way you'll escape this episode unshattered. 

As unwavering in its brilliance as Mariko is in the face of death, "Crimson Sky" is the send-off Mariko deserves, and proof that she is Shōgun's central figure. As showrunner Justin Marks told Mashable in an interview: "If you thought it was about anyone else, then you probably weren't watching closely enough." — B.E. 

How to watch: Shōgun is now streaming on Hulu.

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Writer/director Jeff Nichols has forged his reputation on acclaimed character dramas, like the cryptic Take Shelter, the moody Mud, and the haunting sci-fi offering Midnight Special. In his latest, The Bikeriders, there's plenty of focus on the characters, but the vibe is old-school Scorsese. It makes for a mix that is amusing and a bit maddening — but maybe that's the point? 

A star-stuffed cast brings The Bikeriders to life. Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, Michael Shannon, Mike Faist, and Norman Reedus play characters inspired by the people featured in Danny Lyon's 1967 book The Bikeriders. As a sort of precursor to the New Journalism movement, à la Hunter S. Thompson and his famous study of the Hells Angels, Lyon photographed and interviewed members of the Chicago Outlaws Motorcycle Club (of which he was a part) from the years 1963 to 1967. While this might sound a bit dry or cerebral, Nichols' script is resplendent with attitude, angst, and raw emotion — even when his characters are too macho to express them. 

The Bikeriders follows bikers, violent and aimless. Jodie Comer and Austin Butler fall in love in "The Bikeriders." Credit: Focus Features

The story ostensibly centers on the Vandals MC, a Chicago-based motorcycle gang led by Johnny (Hardy), a blue-collar family man with dreams of being Brando in The Wild One. This is not a subtle allusion. Nichols presents Johnny watching the movie on a modest black-and-white TV, repeating a classic line to make it his own. When The Wild One asks, "What are you rebelling against?" Brando's biker says with a shrug, "Whadda ya got?" 

Following this example, Johnny quickly becomes an idol to young Midwestern rebels without a cause, which includes Benny (Butler), a baby-faced punk who'll start a fight and take a beating with equal pride. While a scrawny Faist plays Danny, the smug photographer, the likes of Reedus, Shannon, and Boyd Holbrook portray other bikers, all degrees of greasy and rugged. And they make a remarkable pack. Yet for all the men who make up the ensemble of this movie, The Bikeriders' voice is its female lead: Benny's conflicted girlfriend turned wife, Kathy (Comer). 

Jodie Comer brings Goodfellas energy to The Bikeriders.

The framing device of the film is Lyon's book, making way for the photojournalist to not only get up close to these gruff characters but also allowing for Kathy's defining voiceover through interviews. Flashback scenes offer insights into Johnny and Benny's memories outside of her purview, but neither man has the inner awareness to express his motivations or deepest yearnings aloud to Danny — much less with the panache of a pissed-off Kathy. 

Comer, laying on a thick Midwestern accent that'd be well-suited to Roseanne, embodies a femininity captured in Scorsese movies: the tough broad who may have been raised a good girl, but can't deny her attraction to bad boys. Kathy would fit in nicely with the mob wives of Goodfellas and Casino, well-aware of her husband's business but nonetheless annoyed at his hubris and brushes with the law. "I thought I could change him, you know?" she asks, and yeah, we know.

Always a bit of an outsider to this male-centric crew, Kathy is both enchanted and repulsed by the Vandals' scandals. Her ire and care are clear in a complicated portrayal, grounded by her insightful voiceover. She gives the film a self-awareness and a sense of dread, as surely these reckless men chasing thrills and freedom are doomed by their own arrogance. Kathy is both their loving historian and horrified witness, close not only to Benny's hot rod but also his broken body when times are really rough. 

But there's an arguable downside to the sheer star power of Comer's performance. As Kathy, she is so captivating, sharply funny, and keenly perceptive that all the menfolk around her fall a bit flat. 

Tom Hardy and Michael Shannon shine.  Tom Hardy and Austin Butler are in the same gang in "The Bikeriders." Credit: Focus Features

Storywise, it makes sense that the men of the Vandals wouldn't be as outspoken as Kathy, who's defined from the start as a dynamo with a mouth on her. Instead, Nichols relies on scenes of macho face-offs, violence, and posturing to speak for them. At times, this works superbly. For instance, Shannon, who's headlined several Nichols' films including Take Shelter, has a brief but staunch role, imbued with the character actor's signature intensity. He has little do onscreen, but even in a peaceful tableau — meant to mimic the compositions in Lyon's seminal photo book — there's a volatility to Shannon's energy that defines his biker in an instant. 

Hardy likewise thrives, perhaps in part to his cultural context. The English actor has played a wide array of badasses, from the titular theatrical criminal in Bronson, to the unintelligible and burly Bane in The Dark Knight Rises, Mad Max himself in Mad Max: Fury Road, cocky Eddy Brock and his bizarre symbiote buddy in Venom, and so on. Essentially, if you're remotely familiar with Hardy's work, the moment you see him in that leather jacket and slight snarl, you know to expect one tough customer. 

To his credit, Hardy doesn't use this persona to cakewalk into Johnny. Instead, he savors the American accent with its lazy tongue and nasal growl. There's an easy pleasure in his depiction of the American archetype, familiar yet not stale. His Johnny echoes Brando's smartly and thoroughly, offering audiences a romance of revolt and rashness that is timeless in its intoxication. However, Butler can't peg down Benny in the same way, perhaps because he has less of a defined persona to date, given that his two biggest recent roles were his lacking Elvis impersonation and his chaotic Dune: Part Two villain.

Austin Butler fizzles. Jodie Comer is interviewed by Mike Faist in "The Bikeriders." Credit: Focus Features

Benny, pretty and seemingly damned to a bad end, recalls James Dean with his slicked-back hair and devil-may-care sensuality. It's easy to see why Kathy falls for him. But as the film progresses, it's harder to understand why she stays with him. While Butler suffuses his tough guy with a tenderness that shines from his puppy-dog eyes, his depiction feels shallow next to his more seasoned co-stars. When The Bikeriders leans on Butler, its verve falls flat. He's got the look but lacks the depth needed to flesh out this tall, dark, and silent anti-hero. 

And yet, as I reflect on The Bikeriders, I wonder if the the emotional shallowness of its men, who while often compelling can be vexingly juvenile, is precisely Nichols' point. These are not self-mythologizing gangsters in the vein of Henry Hill. They have the egos, but not the imagination for that. These are men of a moment, who live and die in that moment. Though we might predict what comes next, we — like Kathy — hope for better. Maybe Nichols intends for us to be frustrated, yearning to slap these dudes Cher-style with a deft "Snap out of it!" (It's easy to imagine Kathy cackling at such an event.) 

Perhaps the problem is not The Bikeriders' seeming unwieldiness, but that my affection for Goodfellas is so ardent that any movie brushing up against its spirit feels deficient.

Taken for the whole of what it is — and not compared to the films that clearly influenced it — The Bikeriders delivers a mindfully realized portrait of American masculinity and its limitations. Left on their own, these men might have been enigmatic snapshots of bikers lost to time and tragedy. But through Nichols' creation of Kathy, they are given a depth and complexity laced with humor, heartache, and ragged empathy. In the end, these performances and perspective makes for a movie that is distinctly American, defiantly Nichols, and a damn great watch. 

The Bikeriders opens only in theaters June 21. 

Best noise-cancelling headphones for flying: Best overall Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $429 at Amazon Shop Now Budget pick Anker Soundcore Life Q20 $59.99 at Amazon Shop Now Best earbuds for travel Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds $299 at Amazon Shop Now Best sound quality Sony WH-1000XM5 $398 at Amazon Shop Now Best for Apple loyalists Apple AirPods Max $549 at Amazon Shop Now Best for adjustable ANC Bose 700 headphones $379 at Amazon Shop Now Best earbuds for Apple users Apple AirPods Pro $249 at Walmart Shop Now Best budget earbuds Anker Soundcore Life P3i $49.99 at Amazon Shop Now

Flying was never the most stress-free way to travel, but thanks to never-ending airline delays, unruly passengers, and the incredible shrinking airline seat, it's become a nightmare. If you've decided it's time to invest in a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones for flying, we've got you covered.

The good news is that plenty of headphones, from over-ear headphones to wireless earbuds, offer active noise cancellation. And in 2024, it's not too hard to find ANC headphones that cost under $100. That said, we do recommend spending a little more to enjoy maximum calm at 35,000 feet.

SEE ALSO: How to clean your AirPods the right way How much should I spend on noise-cancelling headphones?

If you want to find the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying, you should be prepared to pay $300 to $500. Premium headphones offer improved active noise cancellation, customizable settings, and transparency modes that allow you to hear those all-important gate announcements.

Many cheap headphones claim to offer "noise-cancelling" features, but a random pair of $40 over-ear headphones won't compare to the top Sony noise-cancellers. Typically, the more you pay and the better regarded the brand, the better the noise cancellation. Premium brands like Bose and Sony also offer multiple levels of noise cancellation so you can choose to completely block off the world or opt to allow in some environmental noises while flying. 

SEE ALSO: New Apple AirPods Max expected to launch next year — 2 new features to watch out for

Let's not forget that ANC on its own won't save the day — otherwise, we'd just direct you to our guide to the best noise-cancelling headphones. For long flights, comfort is also key. It won't matter if your headphones block sound if you only want to wear them for two out of five hours of your flight. A few extra features — like balanced sound and spatial audio — can't hurt either.

Premium headphones that offer comfort and superior audio technology cost between $398 and $549. If that's totally out of the question, we've included a couple of budget earbuds in the under-$100 category, but they come with tradeoffs. If you're okay with a mid-range pick, consider buying wireless earbuds with ANC instead of over-ear headphones.

SEE ALSO: What to look for when shopping for the best headphones

Lastly, remember that paying more gets you additional features to supplement your ANC, like voice assistant support, expansive battery life, advanced codec support for better-sounding music, or better call quality. If you're a frequent flyer, the cost is almost certainly worth it.

What are the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying?

Noise-cancelling headphones are at their most useful on airplanes. It's difficult to find a moment's peace when so much is going on around you. Frequent flyers may prefer to rest or work, and the best way to prepare for either is by using the best ANC headphones to block out the chaos. 

SEE ALSO: Airplane turbulence is getting worse. Scientists explain why.

Because shopping for headphones shouldn't be as stressful as heading to the airport, we've done extensive testing to bring you the top options. So, read on to find the best noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes in 2024 — all based on Mashable's hands-on headphones reviews.

Best overall: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $429.00 at Amazon
Shop Now

Read Mashable's full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones.

Who it's for:

If you're looking for over-ear headphones that sound great and can easily give you all day wear, the Bose QuietComfort Ultras wear as comfortably for a full day of work as they do for a cross-country flight. They're definitely an investment, but we think the Ultras are worth it (especially when they're on sale) thanks to their long-term wearability and strong noise cancellation.

Why we picked this:

Lead Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard here. Personally, I've owned, used, and loved Bose QuietComfort headphones for years. (I previously tested the QC 35 IIs and the QC 45s, both standouts in the field of ANC headphones.) But, with the Ultras, I feel like Bose really stepped up the QuietComfort line. They're durable but still supremely comfortable. I've worn them with earrings all day and on a five-hour flight while wearing glasses, and not once did I experience any soreness or discomfort.

Shopping Reporter Sam Mangino also tried out the headphones, and she had a similar experience, calling the Ultras "the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn." Beyond comfort, they offer good noise cancellation, which is key for flying. Mangino was less impressed than I was, noting that "while the noise cancellation is really good at blocking out low-pitched noises, it can't wholly block high-pitched sounds unless you turn up the sound to unhealthy volumes." When I wore them on a flight, they significantly reduced the hum of the airplane's engine and my fellow passengers, but I agree that they do best with lower pitches. They certainly block sound better than past QuietComfort models.

Sound-wise, Mangino nailed it when she described it as "rich" and able to allow the little details shine. Bose's first pass at spatial audio is fine, but we think the standard settings are good enough. However, the on-ear controls of these headphones could definitely use some work. They didn't reliably turn on, and we had to resort to alternating short and long presses for them to power up and connect to our devices. Their multipoint connection can also be spotty with two devices connected, but this is likely to be less noticeable on a flight.

The lack of passive playback with a wired connection was noticeable, however. Thankfully, these have a decent battery life that should be enough to get you through wired and wireless listening. Another travel bonus: The earcups fold in, allowing the headphones to take up less space in your bag. That also gives them an edge compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5s, which can only lie flat.

Battery life: 24 hours | App-connected: Yes

Budget pick: Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones $54.99 at Amazon
$65.99 Save $11.00 Shop Now Who it's for:

While having active noise cancellation at the ready while traveling might sound great, spending hundreds of dollars sounds decidedly less so. (Airline tickets are expensive enough, thank you.) If you're not looking for the most elite ANC, sound, or build quality, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20s don't break the bank. And while they may not have more premium features, we found they wore comfortably and got the job done.

Why we picked this:

The Life Q20s are a fraction of the price of the other headphones on our list, but their merits go far beyond their budget status. The cushioned ear pads make them easy to wear comfortably for the length of a long flight. The active noise cancellation is strong enough to block out ambient airplane sounds, and the battery life is also impressive. It took us several days of use to run it down listening at about 50 percent volume — and that was with noise-cancelling engaged.

Plus, unlike higher-end headphones in this guide (namely, the Bose QC Ultras), these headphones support passive playback via a 3.5 millimeter aux cable. In other words, if you do happen to run out of battery on your flight, you're not completely out of luck. As for the actual listening experience, these headphones provide a surprisingly well-balanced sound, but if you don't like how they sound out of the box, you are unfortunately out of luck. Part of the reason they clock in at such a good price (and even more so when they're on sale) is because these headphones are an older model, so they're not compatible with the Soundcore app and its equalizer features. Overall, these headphones epitomize the word decent — but that's not a knock against them at all.

Battery life: 40 hours | App-connected: No

Best earbuds for travel: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds $299.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

If you're not an over-ear headphone stan, the Bose QuiteComfort Ultra earbuds offer similarly impressive noise cancellation and comfort as our top pick, the QuietComfort Ultra headphones. If you like to lean against the window to nap during flights or just need a lower-profile set of headphones so you can travel a bit lighter, the QC Ultra buds are the way to go. They're also a cool $130 less than our top pick, making them easier on the wallet.

Why we picked this:

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds were just released in October 2023, and they've already snagged a Mashable Choice award for their stellar noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and impressive Immersive Audio tech. Per usual for the brand, Bose's ANC drowns out a ton of background noise, making these buds a perfect fit for flights. In his review of the QC Ultra buds, Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth mentioned that Bose's noise cancellation is so good that he often wears these buds even when he's not playing music.

"When I want to take a nap on a plane or focus on my work, I pop in these earbuds and let the noise-cancelling cocoon wash over me," Werth says. "Do they offer 100 percent sound dilution? No, but all but the loudest and closest sounds should disappear. On airplanes, they significantly reduced noise, making it much easier to take a nap. I have to warn my partner when I'm putting on these earbuds, otherwise she'll think I'm giving her the silent treatment."

In terms of complaints, we noticed that the design of the case makes it a bit difficult to remove the buds. We also experienced some finicky Bluetooth connection during long-term testing, but these are minor qualms — the pros of the QC Ultra buds absolutely outweigh the cons.

Battery life: Six hours (Up to 24 with charging case) | App connected: Yes

Best sound quality: Sony WH-1000XM5 Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones $398.00 at Amazon
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Read Mashable's full review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Who it's for:

Sony's latest and greatest over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are the WH-1000XM5. Though they're not an essential upgrade for those who already own the ultra-popular WH-1000XM4s, the improved noise cancellation and fuller sound make these the stronger pick for airplane travel in 2024.

While the ANC is solid, it's not a standout among other high-end noise-cancelling headphones. However, they still pack impressive noise cancellation and stellar audio quality for music. Considering noise cancellation is most effective in tandem with music, these headphones should appeal to music lovers and audiophiles. In her review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, Mashable's Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern said the XM5s were "probably the best-sounding headphones I’ve ever tried," making them a great pick for folks who take pride in their Spotify playlists.

Why we picked this:

Besides sounding amazing, they offer exceptional travel functionality with the "quick attention" mode, activated simply by covering your right ear cup, allowing you to hear gate change announcements and flight attendants without completely stopping your music. Voice assistant support, crisp call quality, and a great battery life of up to 30 hours complete the package.

Though they look great, the biggest drawback is that these headphones don't fold up, and the carrying case is quite tall, though slim. For obvious reasons, that's not ideal for travel. Still, if premium sound quality is more important than portability, they're not that much bulkier than other headphones on this list (and they're still more travel-friendly than the AirPods Max).

Battery life: 30 hours | App-connected: Yes

Best for Apple loyalists: Apple AirPods Max Apple AirPods Max $449.00 at Amazon
$549.00 Save $100.00 Amazon Shop Now

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Max.

Who it's for:

These headphones are expensive as all hell, but for those deep in the Apple ecosystem who want a pair of over-the-ear headphones, they could very well be worth the price. Plus, the noise cancelling is pretty great. You can still find these headphones on sale these days, but since they're also rumored to get an upgrade later this year, anyone who's not already a diehard Apple fan will probably want to skip these.

Why we picked this:

The AirPods Max aren't just a pretty pair of headphones. With the help of eight microphones, these headphones provide excellent active noise cancellation. Switching into transparency mode happens with the push of a button, so there's no messing with finicky touch controls to hear what's going on around you. In addition to ANC, they have fantastic sound quality, and support for spatial audio will make cinephiles happy.

Their battery life, however, is a bit lacking compared to similarly priced headphones, thanks to the fact that they have no power button. (They're also missing a headphone jack, so a Bluetooth adapter will be a must if you like to enjoy in-flight entertainment). They will go into a low-power mode, but you can never completely turn them off. However, this does allow for easy switching in between devices, and for the "Find My" feature to always work. Plus, 20 hours of battery isn't bad, as that should last for even the most long-haul flights. In a pinch, five minutes of a charge can get you an hour and a half of battery life.

The carrying case is unfortunately, as former Mashable Tech Reporter Brenda Stoylar wrote in her review, "possibly the dumbest thing Apple has ever designed," so these headphones are probably best for people who don't mind wearing them around their neck for the entirety of their trip.

Battery life: 20 hours | App-connected: Yes

Best for adjustable ANC: Bose 700 Bose 700 headphones $379.00 at Amazon
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Read Mashable's full review of the Bose Noise Cancelling 700 headphones.

Who it's for:

The Bose 700s are truly top-of-the-line headphones for active noise cancellation, which makes them one of the best noice-cancelling headphones for flying in 2024. Frequent flyers don't want to be reminded that they're surrounded by a bunch of stressed-out strangers, and these premium over-ear headphones will get the job done.

Why we picked this:

They offer 10 levels of ANC so you can finely tune your experience, blocking out as much or as little as you want. You can create up to three different presets between 0 and 10, so you won't have to filter through all ten options every time you want to change the settings. This level of customization is not common among headphones, really setting the Bose 700s apart from its competitors. Alongside that, they sound great, with bass strong and mids suitably crisp, delivering the audio quality you'd expect from Bose.

In his review, Mashable's Alex Perry noted how comfortable the rubber padding on the headband and the foam ear cups were, even when worn for long periods. He also said these headphones are great at blocking out background sounds while on calls, which makes them especially ideal for frequent travelers who often find themselves on the phone while waiting in noisy airport terminals. To top it all off, they fold flat and come with a zip-up case for safe transport. A downside of these headphones is the battery life, which like the AirPod Max, maxes out at 20 hours. However, the biggest downside is that these headphones are also being phased out of Bose's line, so they can be harder to find and aren't likely to be restocked.

Battery life: 20 hours | App-connected: Yes

Best earbuds for Apple users: Apple AirPods Pro Apple AirPods Pro $189.99 at Walmart
$239.00 Save $49.01 Shop Now

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPod Pros.

Who it's for:

If you prefer something more low-key than a bulky pair of over-the-ear wireless headphones, opt for a pair of earbuds for travel instead. Though this usually means noise cancelling takes a big hit, that's not the case with the second-gen Apple AirPods Pro. Mashable Tech Reporter Stan Schroeder deemed these, "the first pair of earbuds I'd actually consider taking on an airplane," due to the quality of their ANC.

Why we picked this:

The ANC ante has been upped with the latest Pros, which offer even more sound-blocking power than the already great first-generation model. The design remains essentially the same, so you can easily stow the charging case in your bag or pocket. Plus, with last year's upgrade, the USB-C charging port likely means you have to lug around one less cable. Adaptive transparency mode allows you to hear outside noise once more with a press of the stem, while still dampening unwanted noise. To add to the aural experience, these buds do have spatial audio, though that feature is infamous for working great with some songs and not working at all with others.

Plus, the easy pairing AirPods are known for being even more efficient thanks to the upgraded H2 chip found in these earbuds. The especially great thing about AirPods is that though they're expensive, they do go on sale regularly throughout the year.

Battery life: 6 hours (up to 30 hours with charging case) | App-connected: Yes

Best budget earbuds: Anker Soundcore Life P3i Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds $34.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $15.00 Shop Now Who it's for:

Just because you don't have a ton of cash to spend doesn't mean you should try to fly without any noise cancellation. The Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds won't change your life, but they'll do a good enough job to give you a little more peace while you're up in the clouds.

Why we picked this:

Budget headphones can often reveal their price tag through their performance, but we're not surprised that the same folks behind our cheap headphone pick delivered in the earbuds category as well. The Life P3i earbuds are some of our favorite budget earbuds in general, offering impressive sound for their price tag, including an app that lets you choose between 21 EQ presets (we prefer Treble Booster). Anker could've stopped there and likely made these buds worth it, but they also have a battery life that outdoes the AirPods Pro and customizable touch controls for each earbud.

So what's the trade off? Well, these earbuds not only have zero multipoint connection, but you'll need to manually disconnect them from one device before reconnecting to another. If you're primarily using these on planes, that shouldn't be too much of an issue. They also have one other major flaw: The ANC does have some hiss to it. If that's not a dealbreaker for you (and it shouldn't be at this price point), then these buds offer surprisingly good value.

Battery life: 7 hours with ANC, 8.5 without (36 hours with charging case) | App-connected: Yes

How we test noise-cancelling headphones for flying

All eight of these headphones were hands-on tested by Mashable staff, including past and current tech reporters, senior tech editors, as well as shopping reporters and editors. All of these headphones were chosen with the following criteria in mind:

• Comfort: As we mentioned above, active noise cancellation becomes much less enjoyable if the headphones delivering it squeeze your head for the entirety of your flight. Any headphones that weren't favored for long-term wear didn't make our list.

• Battery life: If your headphones' battery is going to die 30 minutes into your flight, they're not going to cut it for even the shortest of trips. Our picks were typically in a higher price range that have better battery life and quick charge options for the times when you forget to juice up your headphones the night before you leave.

• Active noise cancellation quality: There are lower cost options for ANC, but not all active noise cancellation is delivered the same. That's why we focused on picks that either offered multiple levels of ANC, or delivered a strong level of ANC on its own, that didn't require music to make a noticeable difference.

• Portability: Over-the-ear headphones are going to deliver the best noise cancellation possible, but they are bulky. To keep these picks travel-friendly, we looked for headphones that fold up or that come with sleek carrying cases.

• Durability: Taking your headphones with you through TSA lines just opens them up to more wear and tear, so we went for higher-cost picks that are likely to survive the journey. Plus, we made sure to choose headphones that will last you for years, so the upfront investment is worth it.

Recent testing updates

Most recently, in June 2024, we phased out the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones from our recommendations. We knew they were being discontinued, but as of this writing you can no longer find them on virtual store shelves. We'll be testing out the newer Bose QuietComfort headphones to see if they're a worthy replacement.

In May 2024, we tested out the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e headphones. Though we were wowed by their high-end design and impressive sound profile out-of-the-box, we felt only middling about their active noise cancellation and noticed that their Bluetooth connection wasn't stable when paired to more than one device. For $399 headphones, we expect better on both these fronts, which is why we opted not to include them in this roundup, and would instead recommend the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones for a blend of excellent sound and ANC.

In April 2024, we added the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones into our lineup of hands-on tested products. (Prior to this update, we recommended them based on research and customer reviews.) We've also recently added the Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds as a budget option for those who prefer not to use over-ear headphones.

Other more recent additions include the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones, which we added in Nov. 2023. As of Feb. 2024, we tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds and the JBL Tour One M2 headphones, and added the former. The JBL headphones didn't make the cut even though we liked their long battery life, comfort, and surprisingly functional multipoint pairing — we just didn't think the $300 price tag matched up to the quality of the active noise cancellation. It wasn't bad, but it didn't wow us, and if you're willing to spend that much, we'd recommend going with Bose headphones instead.

Ever wonder what a Mission: Impossible movie would look like if it centered on a 93-year-old grandmother? If so, you're in luck! Thelma is here to answer that curious query for you. And the answer is: downright delightful. 

Following in the footsteps of action-comedies like the sports spoof Shaolin Soccer and the student heist flick Bad Genius, Thelma treats its low stakes with a tongue-in-cheek intensity. Action sequences — like a mobility scooter chase around a retirement home — are less nerve-rattling and more rib-tickling. Remarkably, the joke is never on the old folks at the movie's heart. 

Thelma is inspired by a true story — sort of.  June Squibb and Fred Hechinger play grandma and grandson in "Thelma." Credit: David Bolen

Written and directed by Josh Margolin, Thelma stars Academy Award nominee June Squibb (Nebraska) as a widowed nonagenarian who is a "little wobbly" but a "very determined…tough cookie." So, when some scammers trick her out of thousands by pretending to be her beloved grandson Daniel (Fear Street's Fred Hechinger) in desperate need of bail money, Thelma isn't going to just sit back and take it. 

Thelma's daughter Gail (Parker Posey) and son-in-law Alan (Clark Gregg) are just relieved no one got hurt, and the police simply shrug when Thelma reports the swindle. Daniel is dealing with troubles of his own, like a break-up and his parents' suffocating attention. So, Thelma recruits her reluctant pal Ben (Shaft's Richard Roundtree in his final film performance) to help her track down the crooks and get her money back! 

Incredibly, Margolin drew from personal inspiration to craft this tale. In real life, his own adored grandmother is a sharp lady who'd been conned over the phone by scammers exploiting her love of her family. Rattled that some creep could take advantage of his Thelma, Margolin imagined a Hollywood scenario where she could get her happy ending — and the crook his just desserts. While the resulting film takes a lot of liberties with the truth, Margolin's love for his grandmother shines through in how his senior heroine is depicted.

SEE ALSO: Scammers weaponize iPhone 15 overheating issue to steal users' phones June Squibb and Richard Roundtree are a dynamic duo. 

Too often in films, the elderly are painted as tragic, dotty, or definitely past their prime. Thelma rejects this ageist trope (see also: Swan Song and Grumpy Old Men), painting its eponymous protagonist as a vibrant woman who values her independence, hates the discomfort of her MedicAlert bracelet, and appreciates a good Tom Cruise action movie. All her "friends are dead," but she advises doting grandson Daniel that they've got to be like Tom Cruise and "always land on your feet." 

SEE ALSO: 'Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One' review: Tom Cruise does action rom-com

Through a casual but comedic introduction of this cross-generational hangout, Margolin gives us a good feel for who Thelma is on an average day. But once that crooked call comes through, we see an exciting new side of her as she treks through Los Angeles to seek out the scammers — mobility issues be damned! Tapping into a classic good-cop/bad-cop dynamic, Thelma is a rule-breaker while her old friend Ben (Roundtree) is a by-the-books guy, happily whiling away his days in a retirement community. That is, until Thelma kicks him into gear. 

Squibb and Roundtree share a warm chemistry that feels like they've known each other for decades. She's the feisty grandma who's so familiar that I admittedly teared up missing my own. (Monica was a total Thelma.) He's a man who's earned his retirement, but age hasn't robbed him of boldness or kindness. Together, they pull off comically low-stakes action sequences, like a showdown with the iconic Malcolm McDowell that is as surprising and exciting as it is hilarious. Amid this senior-specific action, there are great one-liners, like Thelma's insistence that she can figure out how to use a stolen gun: "How hard can it be? Idiots use them all the time!"

Thelma is a tale of underdogs coming out on top.  Parker Posey, Fred Hechinger, and Clark Gregg in "Thelma." Credit: David Bolen

Like the classic Shel Silverstein poem The Little Boy and the Old Man, Thelma presents the plights of being old and young as parallels. At the film's start, both Thelma and 24-year-old Daniel are underestimated by Gail and Alan, whose coddling — while well-intentioned — can feel condescending. And both feel adrift, unsure of what their next chapter can offer. But inspired by Tom Cruise and his determination to do his own Mission: Impossible stunts, Thelma and Daniel find they can be their own heroes.

Hechinger's crooked grin carries a mischievousness that pairs perfectly with Squibb's determined glare. They are kindred spirits in reckless adventure. Elegantly and warmly, Margolin's movie reminds us that age is just a number, as shown by how these two truly see each other across generational barriers. It's beyond heart-warming — watching these characters rediscover themselves while supporting each other is good for the soul.

In the end, Thelma laughs at the absurdity of aging, not the elderly. While there are jokes about senility and the infirmities that come with getting older, Thelma and her friends aren't the butt of them. We all are. There's a comforting relatability in their obstacles' familiarity, which never tips into bleakness; the tone of the film is determinedly resilient, and its color palette soft and inviting. These heroes might fall, but like Tom Cruise, they'll get up again, perhaps inspiring us as they rise. Bolstered by some cheeky action tropes, including twists, chases, gunplay, and even an explosion, Thelma is more than a winsome romp. It's a real thrill.  

Thelma opens nationwide on June 21.

UPDATE: Jun. 20, 2024, 5:45 p.m. EDT "Thelma" was reviewed out of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival in this article, published in January 2024. The review was updated to include information about its theatrical release.

In Janet Planet, silence is everything. Playwright Annie Baker's directorial debut thrives in the stretches of time between words, entire scenes sometimes playing out solely accompanied by ambient noise.

That focus on silence comes as no surprise given Baker's previous work. Pick up any of her plays, from the Pulitzer Prize-winning The Flick to The Aliens, and you'll find meticulously scripted pauses, right down to how long they should last. However, these pauses are by no means dead space; they are intentional opportunities for characters to fully inhabit their worlds, to consider their thoughts and go about their everyday actions. They're just one of the many ways in which Baker so thoroughly captures how people actually speak to and interact with one another — an ability she carries from the stage to the screen with Janet Planet.

SEE ALSO: 11 films you'll want to see out of NYFF 2023 What's Janet Planet about?

Janet Planet introduces us to rising sixth grader Lacy (Zoe Ziegler) and her mother, the eponymous Janet (Julianne Nicholson). The two are practically inseparable, mostly by Lacy's doing. At summer camp, she threatens to kill herself unless Janet picks her up. Upon returning home, Lacy demands Janet sleep in her bed with her, then asks to keep "a little piece" of her mom when Janet tries to return to her own room. (Janet hands over a strand of hair.)

In the time she can't spend with Janet, such as when Janet is seeing her acupuncture clients, Lacy busies herself with piano lessons and tending to a diorama she's built in her room. She also acts as a quiet observer of her mother's life, watching Janet connect with romantic interests and friends despite not fully understanding the ins and outs of adulthood herself.

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Among the figures who come into Janet and Lacy's lives are Janet's boyfriend, Wayne (Will Patton); her old friend Regina (Sophie Okonedo), who's just left a commune of actors and farmers that may or may not be a cult; and Avi (Elias Koteas), the leader of said commune who takes a liking to Janet. Janet Planet announces these characters' arrivals (and departures) with matter-of-fact title cards that both give the film a wry sense of structure and mirror how Lacy marks time based on her mother's own relationships.

The strength of each "section" of Janet Planet varies, with my personal favorite being the one that centers on Regina. Instead of focusing on romantic connections, this portion of the film dives deeper into female friendship. Nicholson and Okonedo share a great rapport while talking about their past mistakes and what's happened in their lives since they last spoke. Plus, Lacy gets more of a chance to interact with Regina than she does with Wayne or Avi, revealing some of her stronger opinions and thoughts about her mother that she can't share directly with her.

SEE ALSO: ‘All of Us Strangers’ review: Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal lead the hottest, saddest movie this year.

Otherwise, Lacy remains less an active participant than an onlooker throughout, something Baker establishes through long, static shots of other characters from Lacy's point of view and through her trademark silences. Here, Lacy takes in the people around her, examining them before asking the occasional pointed question. Elsewhere, Baker shows people speaking but removes the sound of their dialogue, making us infer their words from Lacy's facial expressions. Newcomer Ziegler's reactions are revelatory in themselves, as is her entire performance, complementing Baker's strong yet quietly sparse directorial vision. The film sometimes shifts to Janet's perspective, but it's certainly at its strongest and most developed while we're seeing the world through Lacy's inquisitive, if sometimes bewildered, eyes.

Janet Planet is a moving snapshot of a mother-daughter relationship.

Wayne, Regina, and Avi may come and go, but the heart of Janet Planet is undeniably the relationship between Janet and Lacy. There's an easy intimacy here, glimpsed in scenes where Janet combs Lacy's hair or takes care of her when she's sick. But there's also a tension: Lacy is attached to Janet to the point of codependency, while Janet sometimes appears to be stifled by Lacy's constant closeness, even though she loves her daughter.

Wayne, Regina, and Avi may come and go, but the heart of 'Janet Planet' is undeniably the relationship between Janet and Lacy.

These are feelings that Janet can't quite express to Lacy, and they aren't the only ones. One night, while the two lie in bed together, Lacy confides in Janet, "Every moment of my life is hell." Obviously, these are the last words Janet wants to hear from her daughter — especially as the moment in which Lacy speaks them is a non-hellish instance of calm. Yet Janet seems to find some truth in them too, confessing that she doesn't feel happy either, that her ability to make men fall in love with her sometimes scares her.

Janet's confession is a rare instance of her truly letting Lacy in. At other moments, she keeps Lacy at arm's length, becoming a somewhat unknowable figure to a daughter who just wants to understand her. Nicholson sinks naturally into the sometimes mystifying version of Janet that Lacy sees, but she also imbues Janet with enough warmth, fatigue, and desire that it's clear we're watching a well-rounded person, and not just the socially permeated idea of a mother.

In many ways, Janet Planet and the mother-daughter relationship at its core are reminiscent of another equally stunning, introspective debut: Charlotte Wells's Aftersun. Both films center on only children trying desperately to comprehend their inscrutable parents, and both carry the sense of painful nostalgia that comes with a formative summer vacation.

But while Wells's film weaves between its characters' past and future, Baker's film anchors itself firmly in their present. Every line, every beat of Ziegler and Nicholson's performances — and yes, every silence — contributes to this thoroughly grounded, thoroughly in-the-moment portrait of Janet and Lacy's lives. This is a film that washes over you in a wave of quiet subtleties, marking a profoundly striking debut.

Janet Planet is in theaters in New York June 21, 2024, and opens nationwide June 28.

UPDATE: Jun. 20, 2024, 5:22 p.m. EDT "Janet Planet" was reviewed out of the New York Film Festival in this article, published October 2023. The review was updated to include information about its theatrical release.

Being a teen girl can be a real horror show. Films like Jennifer's Body, Ginger Snaps, The Craft, Bones and All, Blue My Mind, and The Lure have made this point with various forms of horrific heroines, from the demonic to the lycanthropic, all faced with gore, body horror, and passions that threaten to destroy them. Into their sisterhood now shuffles a sheepish vampire who winces at the thought of causing pain. And yet, Sasha (Sara Montpetit) yearns for blood in the sickly hilarious and surprisingly sweet Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person.

Canadian filmmaker Ariane Louis-Seize makes her feature-length directorial debut with this daring and daffy horror-comedy that plays like Romeo and Juliet meets Beetlejuice and Amelie.

What's Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person about?

As titles go, this one is pretty revealing, not only setting up the central plotline but also suggesting a "lonely hearts" ad with a dark sense of humor. Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person (aka Vampire humaniste cherche suicidaire consentant in its native Québécois) begins with Sasha, a teen vampire who is a late bloomer, much to the dismay of her family. Though her fangs have come in, she fails to even take a bite of her birthday treat — which is not a cake but a clueless party clown who becomes a family platter for the rest of her blood-sucking brood.

Like in many vampire films, drinking blood is tied to sex. While her fellow vamps are more or less turned on by causing terror and pain in their human prey, Sasha flees from it. Still, she needs blood to "live," so her perplexed parents provide her baggies of blood to suckle on, much like a kid with a Capri Sun. But Sasha feels an unfamiliar stirring in her fangs when she crosses paths with Paul (Félix-Antoine Bénard), a human high schooler and a mournful misfit who daydreams about death.

Not many movies could pull off a romantic encounter at a suicide prevention group therapy session, but Louis-Seize manages it by leaning keenly into the offbeat but undeniable chemistry between Montpetit and Bénard. There's an enchanting tenderness between the vampire girl who doesn't want to hurt anyone and the teen boy who would die to feel his life had been worthwhile.

Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person proves a savage parody of teen romance.

From group therapy, the peculiar pair wanders into the night to have one of those first dates that goes on for hours, tugging them in chaotically entertaining misadventures. (Think Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist but morbid.) Sure, the plan is to end the night with him being her first (consensual victim). But before they get down to brass tacks, Sasha insists Paul should fulfill his last wish, which is to get back at the school bullies who made his life hell.

It's easy to imagine how this premise in a horror-comedy context could lead to some truly gruesome antics. However, Louis-Seize's film is restrained on gore, saving it for splashes of blood and viscera that attract yet frighten her harried heroine. Instead, the French-Canadian Humanist Vampire has a gnarly sense of whimsy that recalls the French romance Amelie, where the heroine knew great tragedy yet found compelling pleasures. This movie veers away from charming cafes and quaint fantasy in favor of the lightly macabre — chucking a dead bat at a callous authority figure and cursing out a classmate while running away flipping the bird. Paul's revenge is so juvenile, so toothless, that it's almost adorable.

In these childish yet thrilling scraps, Sasha and Paul discover the partner in petty crime they've been yearning for. Theirs is the escapist freedom found in the montages of those romantic dramas in which two terminally ill teens connect through cutesy shenanigans that rebel against their doom. Yet here, bathed in the dark shadows and vivid hues of red, orange, and deep blues, these star-crossed lovers have a greater buoyancy, and, weirdly enough, the potential to hope for more than one great night together. Dare we dream with them?

Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person gets that parents are a teenager's worst nightmare.

Amid the awkward humor of misfit teens acting out and the comedic killing of birthday clowns, Louis-Seize and Christine Doyon's sharply witty screenplay also skewers the family dynamics that traditionally torture high school heroes in movies and TV.

Sasha's father (Steve Laplante) is doting, coddling her refusal to hunt — which mirrors the many fathers who fear ever losing their little girl. Her mother, meanwhile, grows to resent having to hunt for the sulking blood-sucker, scolding that she won't be doing this for the next 300 years! Sasha's affluent and outspoken aunt, ever clutching a pocketbook and scowling, delivers sharper judgment with hilariously brutal barbs. But most cutting may be her older cousin Denise (Noémie O'Farrell), a bohemian vamp who feeds on the blood of belligerent bro-dudes and has snatched her mercurial charisma from Angelina Jolie circa Girl, Interrupted.

Collectively, this band of vampires creates a family dynamic that is hilariously ghoulish but also joltingly familiar. It's easy to imagine them strolling into a John Hughes movie, perhaps to wipe the smirk off Ferris Bueller's face or show Sixteen Candles' Samantha Baker how a real party is done. This genre collision between teen comedy, with its overeager romance, rampant horniness, and family hijinks, and coming-of-age horror, with its throbbing sexual threat, hungry heart, and potential for carnage, makes for an unpredictable and intoxicating experience.

Ultimately, Humanist Vampire is more teen comedy than vampire horror. Its fanged heroine is more at peace listening to records with her crush than being the creature going bump in the night. Yet, by employing elements of vampire lore, Louis-Seize manages to creatively express the unique torment that is being a teen girl coming to understand her changing body and growling new desires. Rather than revel in the horror of these changes, this filmmaker sinks into the uneasy sweetness of discovering flirtation, lust, and other prickly pleasures of growing up.

You probably wouldn't expect a movie that begins with clown slaughter to be so sweet. Yet Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person neatly knits together its darkest elements with threads of whimsy, humor, and tremulous romance to create a vampire tale that is uniquely thrilling and a bloody good time.

Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person opens in NYC and L.A. on June 21, followed by a nationwide rollout.

UPDATE: Jun. 20, 2024, 5:30 p.m. EDT "Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person" was reviewed out of its North American Premiere at 2023's Toronto International Film Festival in this article, published in September 2023. The review was updated to include information about its theatrical release.

TikTok has submitted its opening brief in its legal fight to remain in the U.S., arguing that the government's ban on the app violates the First Amendment right to free speech. It has also explained why divestment from Chinese parent company ByteDance simply isn't possible "technologically, commercially, and legally."

Filed to the District of Columbia Court of Appeals on Thursday, TikTok's 99-page filing calls for a review of the constitutionality of the Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA), which was signed into law by President Joe Biden in April.

SEE ALSO: TikTok child privacy complaint sent to U.S. Dept. of Justice

The legislation introduces a U.S. ban on "foreign adversary controlled applications," and specifically includes both TikTok and ByteDance by name. The companies have consistently maintained that they are independent of the Chinese government and have not furnished it with Americans' data.

"Never before has Congress silenced so much speech in a single act," TikTok's filing alleges. "The Act is unconstitutional and must be enjoined."

U.S. TikTok ban accused of violating the right to free speech

In the filing, TikTok notes that laws which restrict free speech are subject to "strict scrutiny." Under this standard, the U.S. government must prove the legislation is narrowly tailored to advance a compelling governmental interest, and that said law is the least restrictive way this objective can be achieved.

Basically, the government can't bluntly bulldoze free speech to achieve its goals when a surgical strike would suffice.

TikTok argues that Congress has failed to meet this requirement, as it did not consider less restrictive alternatives before passing a law to ban the app. Such options allegedly included a 90-page National Security Agreement that TikTok negotiated with the U.S. government, which featured "multi-layered safeguards and enforcement mechanisms." Project Texas, TikTok's $2 billion effort to wall off U.S. users' data, was allegedly the company's effort to start implementing parts of the agreement prior to it being finalised.

"The Act cannot survive First Amendment scrutiny at any step of the analysis: it advances no compelling interests, is not tailored, and disregards less restrictive alternatives," TikTok's filing reads.

"There is no indication Congress even considered TikTok Inc.’s exhaustive, multi-year efforts to address the government’s concerns that Chinese subsidiaries of its privately owned parent company, ByteDance Ltd., support the TikTok platform — concerns that would also apply to many other companies operating in China."

SEE ALSO: Is the White House being hypocritical about TikTok?

TikTok further objected to PAFACA's "two-tiered system of speech regulation" which it claims unfairly singles the company out. Noting that the legislation automatically considers an app to be "foreign adversary controlled" if it operated by ByteDance or TikTok, the filing alleges that the law imposes "one standard for TikTok and a different standard for everyone else." 

Last year TikTok successfully fought off a ban in Montana, a judge finding the law unconstitutional on the basis that it restricted free speech and imposed a punishment on the company without a trial.

TikTok claims divestment is 'infeasible'

Thursday's filing also addressed claims that the ban isn't really a ban because ByteDance could just sell TikTok to a corporation the U.S. approves of. According to TikTok, such divestment within the time frame imposed cannot practically be done within the timeframe afforded to them. The ban is currently scheduled to go into effect on Jan. 19 next year, nine months after the bill was signed.

"Executing a 'qualified divestiture' is technologically, commercially, and legally infeasible, particularly on the Act’s timeframe of 270 days (or 360 days with a discretionary extension)," wrote TikTok, adding that it has "repeatedly" explained this to the government. "The effect of the Act is therefore a ban."

Even if divestment from ByteDance was possible, Thursday's briefing claimed such a move would transform TikTok in the U.S. into "a shell of its former self."

According to TikTok, the app runs on "billions of lines of code" which are developed and maintained by thousands of employees across the globe. Divestment would require new engineers to be adequately trained in said code, the company said, a process which would likely take years. Further, TikTok uses custom ByteDance software tools — tools which the new legislation would prohibit it from accessing once divested.

Even if divestment from ByteDance was possible, Thursday's briefing claimed such a move would transform TikTok in the U.S. into "a shell of its former self." A U.S.-exclusive TikTok would need to be separated and isolated from all other users across the globe, making it much less engaging and significantly decreasing its commercial value.

Finally, TikTok stated that it cannot legally pursue a sale because the Chinese government will not allow a forced divestment of the app's recommendation engine. 

"Just as the United States restricts the export of U.S.-origin technologies (e.g., certain computer chips), the Chinese government regulates the transfer of technologies developed in China," reads the briefing. The U.S. has prohibited the sale of computing chips to companies in China, including advanced AI chips.

Mashable has reached out to TikTok for comment.

It will be a while before we find out the result of TikTok's legal challenge. Oral arguments are currently scheduled to be held in three months on Sept. 16, four months before the ban is set to come into effect.

The U.S. TikTok ban follows ongoing concern from lawmakers that the Chinese government is covertly spying on users through the popular app, as well as manipulating its algorithm to show China in a favourable light. No public evidence has yet been produced to prove this is actually happening. Senators have also accused TikTok of deliberately promoting support for Palestine to young people in order to cause societal division in the U.S.

If TikTok's challenge fails, PAFACA could fine the company up to $5,000 for each U.S. user. TikTok has 170 million users in the U.S. (which hypocritically includes both President Biden and former president Donald Trump), meaning it could be hit with a whopping fine of approximately $850 billion if it continues to operate in the country. ByteDance was valued at $223 billion last October.

TL;DR: Watch Peru vs. Chile in the 2024 Copa America for free on Sportitalia. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It's time for 2024 Copa America, which is as close as it gets to the World Cup for the football teams of the Americas. Things kick off with the group stages. And as football fans will know, anything can happen in these early games.

This Group A clash features two of South America's top teams. Chile reached the quarter finals in the last Copa America tournament, while Peru went to the semis.

Both teams want to make a statement in their opening match, particularly with tough competition elsewhere in Group A from defending Copa America champs, Argentina.

If you want to watch Peru vs. Chile in the 2024 Copa America for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.

When is Peru vs. Chile?

Peru vs. Chile in the 2024 Copa America kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on June 21. This fixture takes place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

How to watch Peru vs. Chile for free

Peru vs. Chile in the 2024 Copa America is available to live stream for free on Sportitalia.

Sportitalia is a free streaming platform based in Italy. That means it's geo-blocked outside of Italy, but anyone can access it by using a VPN. A VPN is a handy tool that can hide your real IP address, and therefore your location, and connect you to a secure server within Italy, meaning you can access Sportitalia from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of Copa America by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Italy

4. Visit Sportitalia

5. Watch the 2024 Copa America for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming aren't technically free. But leading VPN providers usually offer free trial periods or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without spending any money. Sure, it's not a long-term solution, but it will give you enough time to watch Peru vs. Chile — as well as every other game in the 2024 Copa America — before getting your money back.

What is the best VPN for Sportitalia?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for unblocking Sportitalia to stream live sport for free, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Italy

• 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 free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is currently on sale for just $99.95 — an overall saving of 49% — which includes an extra three months for free along with a year of free unlimited cloud backup, and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Don't miss out — it's a limited time offer.

Live stream Peru vs. Chile for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Watch England vs. South Africa in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We're finally in the Super Eights stage of the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup and the next fixture will see England and South Africa going head-to-head.

In the Super Eights, each team will play the others in their group once, and the top two teams from each of these groups progress to the semi-finals - who will make it through?

Want to tune in? You can watch England vs. South Africa in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, and we have all the information you need.

When is England vs. South Africa?

England vs. South Africa in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts at 10:30 a.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. BST on June 21. This fixture takes place at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia.

How to watch England vs. South Africa for free

It couldn't be easier to livestream England vs. South Africa. For smartphone users in India, you can watch the 2024 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar app.

This free content is geo-restricted to India, so for fans elsewhere in the world, you'll need a VPN. These powerful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning you can access this free content on the Disney+ Hotstar app from anywhere in the world.

Access free T20 Cricket World Cup live streams by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in India

4. Download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app

5. Watch England vs. South Africa in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are generally not free, but they do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. Take advantage of these offers to can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch England vs. South Africa (plus the rest of the tournament) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing live sport on Disney+ Hotstar, 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 always 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.

Watch England vs. South Africa in the 2024 T20 World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Through June 26, learn AI and automation skills with this online learning bundle for just £47.39 (reg. £184.86).

It's no secret that artificial intelligence and automation have taken the world by storm. These tools are being used across industries worldwide to help streamline processes, generate content, and generally support businesses large and small. 

Because of this, jobs in AI and automation development are booming. According to the Hostinger website, "The global AI market size is expected to grow 37% every year from 2023 to 2030." And the world is going to need developers.

This bundle can help budding or current developers get involved in AI and automation. It has thirteen courses covering 46 hours of material. 

A good place to begin could be the "Introduction to the Latest Artificial Intelligence Tools" course. This 20-lesson course covers how AI is changing everything, discussing more than 1,000 of the latest AI tools. It also covers solving problems and supportive decision-making using these tools.

Of course, there are courses covering ChatGPT. You'll get lessons on using this tool to create blog posts, write technical material, and use it for LinkedIn and other platforms.

Other courses go on to explore Python automation, C++, Java, Google Assistant automation, and more. And with lifetime access to the course materials, you can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, from anywhere in the world. Whether you prefer to study in the comfort of your home or during your lunch break, this bundle makes it easy to fit learning into your busy lifestyle.

These thirteen courses could benefit anyone interested in AI, automation, and development, especially while the bundle is on sale.

Until June 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get this Artificial Intelligence and Automation Developer bundle on sale for just £47.39 (reg. £184.86).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterstock The Ultimate Artificial Intelligence & Automation Developer Bundle £47.39 at the Mashable Shop
£184.86 Save £137.47 Get Deal

TL;DR: Watch Netherlands vs. France in Euro 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Euro 2024 group games are well underway and the tournament is shaping up nicely.

Fixtures such as Netherlands vs. France are absolute must-watch games. With superstar players such as Kylian Mbappe in the squad, France are one of the best teams in the world — while the Netherlands are always contenders to go far on the international stage. Poland and Austria are also in Group D, so both France and Netherlands will fancy their chances to advance to the knockout rounds. But anything can happen in an international tournament and this game could prove absolutely crucial.

Euro 2024 might be the biggest football event in Europe, but that doesn't mean you need to be in Europe to watch it for free. Here's how to access this fixture without spending anything.

When is Netherlands vs. France?

Netherlands vs. France in Euro 2024 kicks off at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST on June 21. This fixture in hosted by the Leipzig Stadium in Leipzig, Germany.

How to watch Netherlands vs. France for free

Netherlands vs. France in Euro 2024 is being broadcast by the BBC and will stream live on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is a streaming service for UK viewers. It's geo-blocked outside of the UK but you'll be able to access its content by using a VPN. These tools can mask your IP address and connect your computer to a server in the UK, allowing you to live stream Euro 2024 games on BBC iPlayer — no matter where you are around the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit BBC iPlayer

5. Stream Netherlands vs. France in Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Connecting to overseas streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer with a VPN is free of charge, but VPNs for streaming aren't free to use themselves. They do have try-before-you-buy incentives though, such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. That means you can sign up and watch Euro 2024, then cancel your plan. In other words, you can watch all the football action without spending a dime.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

• 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 free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN is currently offering a 49% discount for a limited time. For $99.95 you'll get a one-year subscription, three bonus months at no extra cost, a year's worth of unlimited cloud backup, and a 30-day money back guarantee. That's all the reassurance you need to sign up and enjoy the football at Euro 2024 for free.

Stream Netherlands vs. France in Euro 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.