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This 98-inch TCL QLED TV is half off at Amazon, and yes, I need a bigger wall

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:59

Save $1502: As of March 21, TCL 98-inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV (2024 model) is on sale for $1,497.99 at Amazon. That’s a massive $1,502 off its $2,999.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 98-inch Q65 QLED $1,497.99 at Amazon
$2,999.99 Save $1,502.00 Get Deal

I think I just found the TV equivalent of a flex. TCL 98-inch Q65 QLED is on sale for $1,497.99 at Amazon, which is 50% off its original $2,999.99 price. I don’t know who needs a screen this big, but I absolutely want to be that person. If you’ve got a blank wall, a free weekend, and a desire to turn your home into a personal IMAX, this is your sign.

This is the 2024 model, so it's rocking TCL’s latest bells and whistles. The QLED PRO panel drenches your screen in vivid, cinematic color while the AIPQ PRO processor with deep learning AI fine-tunes contrast and sharpness scene-by-scene. Pair that with HDR Pro+, Dolby Vision, and an eye-searing High Brightness+ LED backlight, and I’m sorry, but your current TV is probably ashamed.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy just knocked $200 off this massive 75-inch TCL QLED TV, and I’m tempted

Let's talk refresh rates. This beast has a 120Hz panel with 144Hz VRR and a Motion Rate of 480. Translation: it eats action movies, sports, and next-gen gaming for breakfast. There’s no blur, no lag—just buttery smooth motion that makes even cable news look cinematic. (Okay, maybe not that far.)

  • Price: $1,497.99 (Was $2,999.99)

  • Retailer: Amazon

  • Display: 98-inch QLED, 4K UHD

  • HDR: HDR Pro+, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG

  • Processor: TCL AIPQ PRO Processor with Deep Learning AI

  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz panel (144Hz VRR), Motion Rate 480

  • Audio: Dolby Atmos, built-in speakers

  • Smart Features: Google TV, voice remote, Chromecast built-in

  • Gaming Features: Game Accelerator, MEMC, Auto Game Mode

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, HDMI, USB, Ethernet

Sound-wise, you’re working with Dolby Atmos, and if you pair it with a bundled TCL soundbar? You’ll feel like you’re being chased through a jungle by dinosaurs or emotionally wrecked by orchestral piano solos, depending on what you’re watching. It’s all about range.

I won’t lie: $1,497.99 is still a big spend. But for a 98-inch 4K QLED with this kind of feature stack? It’s absurdly reasonable. This is the kind of TV that makes your friends ask if you won the lottery. Or start your own theater. Honestly, either works.

How to watch Memphis vs. Colorado State online for free

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:59
Where to stream 2025 March Madness online for free 5-Day Free Trial DirectTV $86.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Fubo $79.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 3-Day Free Trial Hulu + Live TV $82.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Paramount+ $7.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now

March Madness is here, with basketball fans in a frenzy as they gear up for some action-packed matchups between their favorite teams. The next few weeks are sure to be filled with excitement as we watch the nation's best teams go head-to-head.

The faceoff between Memphis and Colorado State is surely one to watch. The fifth and 12th seeds are set to battle it out for a place in the second round, and fans can't wait to see who will win.

If you want to watch Memphis Tigers vs. Colorado State Rams for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Memphis vs. Colorado State?

Memphis vs. Colorado State starts at 2 p.m. ET on March 21. This first-round game takes place at Climate Pledge Arena.

How to watch Memphis vs. Colorado State for free

Memphis vs. Colorado State airs on TBS. It is possible to access TBS with streaming services that offer free trials:

  • DirectTV (five-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

  • Hulu + Live TV (three-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

By making the most of these free trials, you can watch BYU Cougars vs. VCU Rams (plus more March Madness games) without actually spending anything.

How to watch Memphis vs. Colorado State from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during March Madness, you might need to use a VPN to unblock live streams of Memphis vs. Colorado State. You can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of Memphis vs. Colorado State from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Memphis vs. Colorado State from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Visit DirectTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or Paramount+

  5. Live stream Memphis vs. Colorado State for free from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport from anywhere in the world, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

This 65-inch TCL QLED TV is $348 at Amazon, and I genuinely can’t believe it

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:53

Save $202: As of March 21, TCL 65-inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV (2024 model) is down to just $348 at Amazon. That’s 37% off its regular $549.99 price, and yes, that’s a lot of screen for not a lot of money.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL 65-inch TCL QLED TV $348 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $201.99 Get Deal

I want to live in a world where a 65-inch QLED TV doesn’t cost more than my rent. And today, that world exists at least on Amazon. TCL Q65 QLED 4K Smart TV is sitting at a truly eyebrow-raising $348, which is 37% off the usual $549.99. I checked twice, and no, that price isn’t a prank. This is the brand-new 2024 model with all the bells, whistles, and voice-controlled Google TV magic baked in.

This thing doesn’t just look good, it’s showing off. The QLED panel means colors are rich enough to make a Pixar animator cry, and TCL’s AIPQ processor uses “deep learning AI” to optimize your content. Do I fully understand what that means? No. Do I love it anyway? Absolutely. Add in HDR Pro+, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, and suddenly even the darkest moody dramas look like they were filmed in IMAX.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy just knocked $200 off this massive 75-inch TCL QLED TV, and I’m tempted

Game nights just got a lot more serious too. The Game Accelerator 120 brings variable refresh rates up to 120Hz, which is just a fancy way of saying your gameplay is going to be smooth like butter, without the annoying lag or stutter that makes you want to throw your controller. It’s built for the casual movie marathoner and the borderline esports champion alike.

  • Price: $348 (Was $549.99)

  • Retailer: Amazon

  • Display: 65-inch QLED, 4K UHD

  • HDR: HDR Pro+, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG

  • Processor: TCL AIPQ Processor with Deep Learning AI

  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz (Game Accelerator 120 for 120 VRR)

  • Audio: Dolby Atmos, built-in speakers

  • Smart Features: Google TV, voice remote, Chromecast built-in

  • Gaming Features: Game Accelerator 120, Auto Game Mode

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, HDMI, USB, Ethernet

And let’s talk about sound. With Dolby Atmos and a built-in speaker setup, this TV makes it feel like the sound is moving around you. You’re not just watching a car chase, you’re basically in it. Pair it with a TCL soundbar and you’ve got yourself a full-blown home theater, minus the overpriced popcorn.

Honestly, if you’ve been dreaming of upgrading to a big, beautiful TV, this is your moment. The price is wild, the features are stacked, and it won’t sit at $348 forever. I’m tempted. Very tempted.

How to watch Iowa State vs. Lipscomb online for free

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:50
Where to stream 2025 March Madness online for free 5-Day Free Trial DirectTV $86.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Fubo $79.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 3-Day Free Trial Hulu + Live TV $82.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Paramount+ $7.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now

March Madness is here, with basketball fans in a frenzy as they gear up for some action-packed matchups between their favorite teams. The next few weeks are sure to be filled with excitement as we all watch the nation's best teams go head-to-head.

There are a ton of long-awaited first-round games in 2025 March Madness, including Iowa State Cyclones vs. Lipscomb Bisons. The third and 14th seeds are going to battle it out for a place in the second round, and it's set to be a thrilling one.

If you want to watch Iowa State vs. Lipscomb for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Iowa State vs. Lipscomb?

Iowa State Cyclones vs. Lipscomb Bisons starts at 1:30 p.m. ET on March 21. This first-round game takes place at Fiserv Forum.

How to watch Iowa State vs. Lipscomb for free

Iowa State vs. Lipscomb airs on TNT. It is possible to access TNT with streaming services that offer free trials:

  • DirectTV (five-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

  • Hulu + Live TV (three-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

By making the most of these free trials, you can watch BYU Cougars vs. VCU Rams (plus more March Madness games) without actually spending anything.

How to watch Iowa State vs. Lipscomb from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during March Madness, you might need to use a VPN to unblock live streams of Iowa State vs. Lipscomb. You can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of BYU vs. VCU from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Iowas State vs. Lipscomb from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Visit DirectTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or Paramount+

  5. Live stream Iowa State vs. Lipscomb for free from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport from anywhere in the world, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for March 21, 2025

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:46

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, March 21, 2025:

Across"And stuff like that": Abbr.
  • The answer is Etc.

"Hooray!"
  • The answer is Wahoo.

  • The answer is Arrow.

Things counted by some smartwatches
  • The answer is Steps.

"___ So Fine," subject of the famous plagiarism case against "My Sweet Lord"
  • The answer is Hes.

DownWhat you might "come down to" after having your head in the clouds
  • The answer is Earth.

With the circled letters, a literal depiction of what you need to win tic-tac-toe?
  • The answer is Three.

Chicken dwellings
  • The answer is Coops.

Is no longer
  • The answer is Was.

Cries of pain
  • The answer is Ows.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

How to watch Alabama vs. Robert Morris online for free

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:38
Where to stream 2025 March Madness online for free 5-Day Free Trial DirectTV $86.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 3-Day Free Trial Hulu + Live TV $82.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now

Basketball fans are in for a treat over the next few weeks, because March Madness is officially underway. It's the best time of year for college basketball lovers, and the wait is nearly over to see who will come out on top.

The first round includes a matchup between Alabama and Robert Morris. The second and 15th seeds are set to battle it out for a place in the second round, with many calling dibs on powerhouse Crimson Tide.

If you want to watch Alabama vs. Robert Morris for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Alabama vs. Robert Morris?

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Robert Morris Colonials starts at 12:40 p.m. ET on March 21. This first-round game takes place at Rocket Arena.

How to watch Alabama vs. Robert Morris for free

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Robert Morris Colonials is available to watch on truTV. It is possible to access truTV with a range of streaming services that offer free trials:

  • DirectTV (five-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

  • Hulu + Live TV (three-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

By making the most of these free trials, you can watch Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Robert Morris Colonials (plus more March Madness games) without actually spending anything.

How to watch Alabama vs. Robert Morris from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during March Madness, you might need to use a VPN to unblock live streams of Alabama vs. Robert Morris. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of Alabama vs. Robert Morris from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Alabama vs. Robert Morris from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Visit DirectTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or Paramount+

  5. Live stream Alabama vs. Robert Morris for free from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport from anywhere in the world, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

How to watch Mississippi State vs. Baylor online for free

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:27
Where to stream 2025 March Madness online for free 5-Day Free Trial DirectTV $86.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Fubo $79.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 3-Day Free Trial Hulu + Live TV $82.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Paramount+ $7.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now

Basketball fans are in for a treat over the next few weeks, because March Madness is officially underway. It's the best time of year for college basketball lovers, and the wait is nearly over to see who will come out on top.

There are several highly-anticipated games to look forward to, including Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. Baylor Bears. The eight and ninth seeds are set to battle it out for a place in the second round, and all eyes are on both teams in a matchup that could swing either way.

If you want to watch Mississippi State vs. Baylor for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Mississippi State vs. Baylor?

Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. Baylor Bears starts at 12:15 p.m. ET on March 21. This first-round game takes place at Lenovo Center.

How to watch Mississippi State vs. Baylor for free

Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. Baylor Bears is available to watch on CBS. It is possible to access CBS with a range of streaming services that offer free trials:

  • DirectTV (five-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

  • Fubo (seven-day free trial) — CBS

  • Hulu + Live TV (three-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

  • Paramount+ (seven-day free trial) — CBS

By making the most of these free trials, you can watch Creighton Bluejays vs Louisville Cardinals (plus more March Madness games) without actually spending anything.

How to watch Mississippi State vs. Baylor from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during March Madness, you might need to use a VPN to unblock live streams of Mississippi State vs. Baylor. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of Mississippi State vs. Baylor from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Mississippi State vs. Baylor from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Visit DirectTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or Paramount+

  5. Live stream Mississippi State vs. Baylor for free from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport from anywhere in the world, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

How Blueprint Founder Bryan Johnson Sought Control Via Confidentiality Agreements

NYT Technology - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00
That control is starting to fray as Mr. Johnson, a longevity guru known for performing experiments on his body, faces a backlash over the agreements.

How to watch Houston vs. Gonzaga online for free

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00
Where to stream 2025 March Madness online for free 5-Day Free Trial DirectTV $86.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Fubo $79.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 3-Day Free Trial Hulu + Live TV $82.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now 7-Day Free Trial Paramount+ $7.99 per month (after trial) Shop Now

There are so many interesting matchups in the second round of March Madness, but Houston vs. Gonzaga might be the best. We're expecting a real battle between the first and eighth seeds for a spot in the Sweet 16.

If you want to watch Houston vs. Gonzaga for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Houston vs. Gonzaga?

Houston vs. Gonzaga starts at 8:40 p.m. ET on March 22. This first-round game takes place at the Intrust Bank Arena.

How to watch Houston vs. Gonzaga for free

Houston vs. Gonzaga airs on TNT. It is possible to access TNT with streaming services that offer free trials:

  • DirectTV (five-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

  • Hulu + Live TV (three-day free trial) — CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV

By making the most of these free trials, you can watch Houston vs. Gonzaga (plus more March Madness games) without actually spending anything.

How to watch Houston vs. Gonzaga from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during March Madness, you might need to use a VPN to unblock live streams of Houston vs. Gonzaga. You can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of Houston vs. Gonzaga from anywhere in the world.

Live stream 2025 March Madness from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Visit DirectTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or Paramount+

  5. Live stream Houston vs. Gonzaga for free from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport from anywhere in the world, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Victim of the MGM resorts data breach? Claim your money now.

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

Victims of a massive 2023 data breach of MGM Resorts databases can now claim their (albeit small) payouts after a year of litigation and a $45 million settlement.

On Sept. 9, 2023 — in what would become one of the biggest data breaches to hit the hospitality industry — hackers were able to manipulate an MGM IT employee into providing them access to internal systems. The hackers, part of the ALPHAHV/Black Cat ransomware group, then took control of the company's computer networks and demanded ransom, which MGM refused to comply with. The event lasted nine days, during which customers were locked out of their rooms, and slot machines, ATMs and check in systems went down. The ransomware attack reportedly affected 30 properties and 37 million customers, although the number could be higher.

SEE ALSO: DOGE damage is just getting started, IT experts warn

Class action lawsuits followed, pairing the 2023 attack with a similar July 2019 breach in which an unspecified amount of personal information was stolen and posted to the Dark Web. The $45 million lawsuit was settled in January, with a final hearing scheduled for June 18.

How can I claim my class action payout?

MGM sent letters to individuals who were confirmed victims last year — those individuals should expect to receive an email in the coming weeks with a personalized ID and PIN used to file their claims, if they haven't been alerted already. But you may still be eligible to apply if you stayed at an MGM property before the data breaches and believe your information was affected.

Customers who can prove the breach resulted in substantial financial losses have the opportunity to file claims up to $15,000. But most claimants will receive between $20 to $75, depending on the type of personal data that was breached. Those whose Social Security numbers or military identification numbers were stolen can file for $75 payouts, while customers whose passport number or driver’s license were exposed can claim $50. Individuals who had names, addresses, or birthdates breached can only receive $20.

Claims must be filed before June 3. Settlement class members are also eligible for a year of free identity theft protection and credit monitoring.

Scientists filmed something outrageous riding on a shark

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

We know the ocean is strange. Even so, it still surprises us.

Biologists aboard a University of Auckland vessel spotted a large mako shark in December 2023. But there was something orange on top of it, which they filmed and recently posted on YouTube. It's a stunning sight.

"We launched the drone, put the GoPro in the water, and saw something unforgettable: an octopus perched atop the shark’s head, clinging on with its tentacles," Rochelle Constantine, a professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland, wrote online.

"This 'sharktopus' was a mysterious find indeed — octopus are mostly on the seabed while short-fin mako sharks don’t favour the deep," Constantine added. (What's more, octopi are often solitary creatures.)

SEE ALSO: NASA dropped a new report. It's a wake-up call.

As you can see in the clip below, both creatures appear perfectly comfortable with the transport situation. Perhaps some sort of symbiotic relationship?

Mystifying sightings like this, however, require allowing the ocean wilderness to thrive. But sharks are having a hard time. The global abundance of sharks and rays has dropped by a whopping 71 percent over the last half-century, largely due to overfishing and by-catch. Sustaining these wilds means managing Earth's fisheries to vastly reduce the chances of shark bycatch, protecting their habitats, and cutting the amount of pollution flowing into their homes.

"The sharktopus encounter is a reminder of the wonders of the ocean," Constantine said. "One of the best things about being a marine scientist is that you never know what you might see next in the sea. By supporting conservation initiatives, we can help to ensure that such extraordinary moments keep happening."

"Something unforgettable."

Biologists also underscore the importance of protecting the ocean realms we can't often observe — the dark, deep sea.

Ocean research organizations are now vigilantly documenting and mapping these depths, thousands to tens of thousands of feet underwater. Scientists want to shine a light — literally and figuratively — on what's down there. The implications of knowing are incalculable, particularly as deep sea mineral prospectors prepare to run tank-like industrial equipment across parts of the seafloor. For example, research expeditions have found that ocean life carries great potential for novel medicines. "Systematic searches for new drugs have shown that marine invertebrates produce more antibiotic, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory substances than any group of terrestrial organisms," notes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Snow Whites short hair didnt deserve this treatment

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

Snow White offers the latest live-action reimagining of a classic Disney animated movie. Critics are cheering some translations from the 1937 cartoon, including leading lady Rachel Zegler's charming embodiment of the singing Disney princess. However, other elements of this remake haven't received such love, like Gal Gadot's underwhelming take on the Evil Queen, and the CGI monstrosities that are the seven dwarfs. But there's one blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment that deserves to be called out for its crass mishandling of Snow White's signature fashion.

They do her signature hairdo dirty. 

Before long hair became a staple of Disney princesses, from Sleeping Beauty to Belle, Jasmine, Rapunzel, Elsa, and Moana, there was Snow White's jaunty black bob in 1937's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Now, in Disney's Snow White, key hair and make-up artist Niall Monteith-Mann dedicatedly recreates this look for Snow White, not only building the bob to perfectly frame Zegler's face, but also to suit Emilia Faucher, who plays the child version of the iconic princess. It's simply adorable, but there is one cutting distinction between these short hairdos. In the cartoon version, Snow White just has short hair. In this live-action version, Snow White's bob gets a harrowing origin story that taps into problematic standards of feminine beauty.

Snow White shows short hair as a punishment.  Rachel Zegler as Snow White. Credit: Disney Enterprises, Inc.

In the first act of Disney's Snow White, its eponymous princess (played by Faucher) is introduced with long black hair that tumbles over her pretty yellow dress as she frolics with her father and mother, the latter of whom also has long hair. But as is the way of Disney parents, the mom will die before the first act is even over, leaving room for the entrance of a wicked stepmother (Gadot). Faster than you can say, "Mirror, mirror on the wall," Snow White's life changes dramatically.

Locked away behind the castle gates, she's cut off from the rest of the kingdom. The queen forces her to work as a maid. Her royal gowns are snatched away in favor of a more humble (yet still sweet) dress and apron fit. And her hair is cut. It happens in one dramatic swing of a blade in silhouette, reminiscent of the deaths, too violent to be shown in full, of certain Disney villains.

SEE ALSO: 'Disney's Snow White' review: Better than it has any right to be

One slash and all of her long locks are chopped off into a bob. Why? Perhaps the vain queen thinks short hair will make the little princess less pretty. Notably, however, the vicious royal favors keeping her hair firmly in check with a cowl-and-crown combo. Maybe the queen is simplifying childcare by giving Snow White a cut that doesn't require much brushing. But, let's get real, that was never going to be the queen's job anyway. So that leaves us with the simple answer: It was a punishment. 

Now, haircuts as punishment are a real thing, often used by parents to exert control over their children's self-expression. This might have been the goal of the Evil Queen, looking to make Snow White feel less in control of her own life, weaker, and shamed for it. (Notably, some parents do post the resulting "bad haircut" photos on social media as a means of public shaming as punishment.) While the queen doesn't express her reasons for the chop, her general antagonistic attitude toward Snow White suggests it was meant to hurt the girl's self-esteem. And frankly, short-haired girls deserve better than the suggestion that short hair is inherently ugly, unfeminine, or unbecoming of a princess.

Snow White pulls Tangled 2.0.  Jonathan (Andrew Burnap) and Snow White (Rachel Zegler) in Disney's live-action "Snow White." Credit: Disney Enterprises, Inc.

Something similar happens in Tangled's climax, in which, to rescue Rapunzel from her evil adopted mother, Eugene cuts off her long, magical, golden hair, turning it short and brown. The resulting haircut was a bit funky, being done with a sword swipe and all. But it was cute in a Winona Ryder '90s pixie way. For a brief moment, brunettes with short hair could feel pretty as a Disney princess! Yet, when it came to making toys for the movie, it was impossible to find a representation of Rapunzel that wasn't all about her long hair.

This retroactively suggested the true sacrifice wasn't of her magic, but of her appearance. Clearly, even in fantasy worlds, girls must strive for long, flowing hair to be seen as beautiful. I guess we're lucky Eugene loved her despite the chop!

In Snow White, even with short hair, this princess somehow manages to attract a dashing bandit named Jonathan (Andrew Burnap). But perhaps, just as he fights against the queen for the return of a rightful ruler to the throne, he's playing the long game here. After all, it's not like Snow White's hair is canonically magic, promised to stay short forever like Rapunzel's. Maybe Jonathan is thinking once he gets her back on the throne, she'll definitely grow it out — as all proper princesses since 1937 do!

I kid. No one in the movie comments on Snow White's hair, and all mentions of her appearance are in praise of her beauty. Though, props to screenwriter Erin Cressida Wilson, the fairy tale's classic line "fairest of them all" is meant to apply more broadly to a woman fair in spirit, whose beauty comes from within. But then why make Snow White's haircut a point of punishment at all?

SEE ALSO: 'Nightbitch' does more than explore motherhood. It celebrates body hair.

In the original film, Snow White just had short hair. Here, the introduction of the punishment haircut raises questions that didn't need to be asked before. Like, since Snow White keeps her hair short from this grim girlhood to her rebellious princess present, does that mean she's getting regular relegated haircuts by sword? Or, despite the traumatic first chop, maybe this haircut gives her life, even under her stepmother's dead stare? Frankly, it's a galling weight to bestow on a hairdo, especially when growing up for girls involves all kinds of experimenting with our hair.

Treating a short haircut as punishment undercuts Snow White's message that a girl's value — or true beauty — goes beyond her appearance to how she treats people. Instead of the short hair being casually embraced as a point of her personal style — like her yellow skirts with a blue corset — one scene of violence positions it as a marker of shame. As in Rapunzel, with one swift swing of a sword, Disney once more sends the message to impressionable young girls that they should be brave, kind, and fair — but above all else, they should have long hair!

Disney's Snow White is now in theaters.

Why are so many golfers excited about this simulator?

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Play golf anywhere with Phigolf Golf Simulator, now $89.97 (reg. $199) through March 30.

Golf simulators used to be reserved for people who could afford to fill a whole room with some seriously expensive technology. Good news for golf lovers: that changed. Now, you can take your favorite game anywhere, and all you need is an iOS device. Phigolf is a home golf simulator that even lets you play with real clubs, and it just went on sale for $89.97 (instead of $199). 

Swing for the green

Phigolf World Tour Edition lets you practice your swing on over 38,000 global courses, all precisely mapped with the same GPS technology trusted by Bushnell, Yamaha, and GolfNow. It's not just about aimlessly hitting balls. With its Smart Motion Sensor and 3D Data-Analysis System, Phigolf gives you real-time feedback on everything from your swing tempo and club path to your shot distance and face angle. Whether you're swinging for fun or working on perfecting your short game, the detailed feedback makes sure you're improving with every swing.

And since it simulates the feel of a real golf club with its spring-loaded weight mechanism, it gives you that satisfying thwack without ever having to chase down a ball.

The setup is simple. Attach the lightweight 9-axis motion sensor to your own clubs or the included swing stick, connect via Bluetooth to the Phigolf app on your phone or tablet, and start swinging. The app calculates your trajectory and displays the ball flight right on your device or even on your TV if you want a bigger, more immersive experience. It's like turning your living room into a virtual golf course.

Since Phigolf isn’t compatible with WGT or E6 Connect, you’ll be sticking with the Phigolf app and its impressive library of courses. But the upside is you’re not just playing alone. Phigolf also lets you compete against other players worldwide in online tournaments or head-to-head matchups, turning practice into friendly competition.

So why the discount? This is an Open-Box item. All that means is it may have been excess stock. It doesn't come in the original box, but everything inside is in brand-new condition. It's just like buying new, minus the high price. 

March 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the cutoff to get Phigolf Home Golf Simulator on sale for $89.97. 

And shipping is free. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Phigolf Phigolf Home Golf Game Simulator Sensor & Generic Swing Stick Set (Open Box) $89.97
$199 Save $109.03 Get Deal

Turn your smartphone into a scanner for life for $42

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Let SwiftScan handle all your scanning needs right from your smartphone, with a lifetime subscription available now for just $41.99 (reg. $199) with code TAKE30 through March 30. 

Surprised at how often you could use a scanner in 2025? Though we no longer own those clunky scanner-printer combos from the '90s...we have something way better.

SwiftScan VIP not only turns your smartphone or tablet into a scanner, but it also helps you edit files and easily upload them to your cloud storage service of choice. A lifetime subscription is now available for just $41.99 with code TAKE30. 

This app is more than just a document scanner

Don't groan next time you need to scan something. SwiftScan simplifies the document scanning process using the camera on your smartphone or tablet. Once you're done, it helps you send and organize your files and even serves as your personal PDF editing tool. 

Just open the app and hold your device above the document. It automatically detects the edges, crops the scan, and enhances the quality with color filters, auto-optimization, and blur reduction. Then, choose if you'd like to save it as a PDF or JPG with just one tap.

Once saved, SwiftScan helps you get your document where it needs to go. You can send it as a fax or an email or upload it directly to your preferred cloud storage service like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox. 

Need to scan multiple pages? That's not a problem for SwiftScan, which can combine those pages into a single document if needed. 

After scanning, editing is just as easy with the user-friendly interface. If you need to work with a PDF file, SwiftScan can help you navigate these pesky file formats — from signing to annotating or redacting information. 

SwiftScan also saves and organizes your scans in folders. If you ever need an older scan, the app includes OCR technology that makes them easily searchable later without endless scrolling.

Enjoy a lifetime of easy scanning access and PDF editing with this subscription to SwiftScan VIP, now just $41.99 (reg. $199) with code TAKE30 through March 30. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: SwiftScan SwiftScan VIP: Lifetime Subscription $41.99
$199.99 Save $158 Get Deal

How to watch Sing Sing: The Oscar-nominated film is now streaming

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00
The best ways to watch 'Sing Sing' at a glance: BEST NON-STREAMING OPTION Buy or rent 'Sing Sing' on Prime Video $5.99 or $19.99 Get Deal BEST FOR MOST PEOPLE Max (With Ads) annual subscription $99.99 per year (save $19.89) Get Deal BEST AD-FREE DEAL Max Ad-Free annual subscription $169.99/year (save $33.89) Get Deal GET MAX FOR FREE Max (With Ads) for select Cricket customers Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month unlimited plan (save $9.99/month) Learn More GET MAX FOR FREE Max (with ads) Free for DashPass annual plan subscribers (save $9.99 per month) Get Deal BEST FOR STUDENTS Max Student $4.99 per month for 12 months (save $5 per month) Get Deal BEST BUNDLE DEAL Max, Hulu, and Disney+ with ads $16.99 per month (save $8.98 per month) Get Deal

A24 stays pumping out gem after gem, and Sing Sing is no exception. In this prison-set friendship drama inspired by a true story, Colman Domingo leads an impeccable cast, many of whom were formerly incarcerated and play versions of themselves. Directed by Greg Kwedar, Sing Sing is "spiritually and visually luminous," notes Mashable's Siddhant Adlakha in his review out of SXSW. He dubbed it one of 2024's most powerful works.

Want to watch it yourself? The moving story is officially available to stream from home. Here's what you need to know.

What is Sing Sing about?

Imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn't commit, John "Divine G" Whitfield (Domingo) finds purpose in the prison’s RTA program (Rehabilitation Through the Arts) — particularly by acting in a theatre group with the other prisoners. This includes the reluctant, closed-off Clarence "Divine Eye" Maclin. Inspired by the true story of an unlikely friendship, Sing Sing is ultimately about "finding hope and catharsis through creation, and the difficulties therein.

"For the men of Sing Sing, art becomes both refuge and rebellion, presented not only as a coping mechanism for incarceration, but a therapeutic alternative. The result is a heartrending, visually enrapturing balm for the soul," writes Adlakha.

Check out the official trailer for a closer look:

Is Sing Sing worth watching?

"Sing Sing is a beautiful, multifaceted movie that not only draws from the real lives of its ensemble, but centers each of their stories and personalities with a commitment to realism, which Kwedar and cinematographer Pat Scola ensure in immensely thoughtful ways," Mashable's reviewer writes, calling it "one of the best modern films about acting."

Critics and audiences alike are united in their praise of Sing Sing. The A24 drama currently holds a 97 percent critic rating and audience rating at Rotten Tomatoes, making it certified fresh. It comes as no surprise that Domingo's performance was celebrated with nominations for Best Actor at the Golden Globes, SAG Awards, Critics Choice Awards, and Oscars. He ultimately lost out to Adrien Brody (The Brutalist) and Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), but the performances of the entire Sing Sing ensemble are incredible across the board.

Read our full review of Sing Sing.

How to watch Sing Sing at home Credit: A24

Sing Sing launched in U.S. theaters in July 2024. A24 then re-released it in theaters in January 2025. It made its digital-on-demand debut on Jan. 31, so you can purchase the film from retailers like Prime Video and Apple TV for $19.99. It's also available to rent for as little as $4.99. Rentals are good for 30 days from the time of purchase, but you'll only have 48 hours to finish watching once you begin. Sing Sing also made its official streaming debut in March. Keep scrolling for more information.

Here are some quick links to buy or rent Sing Sing online:

Is Sing Sing streaming?

The A24 drama officially makes its streaming debut on Max on March 21. Max is the streaming home of all recent A24 theatrical hits, thanks to a multi-year output deal between the indie film studio and Warner Bros. Discovery. Subscriptions start at $9.99 per month, but there are a few different ways to save some money on your plan. We've rounded up the best Max streaming deals for you below.

The best Max streaming dealsBest for most people: Save 16% on Max with ads annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max (with ads) yearly subscription $99.99 per year (save 16%) Get Deal

The most straightforward way to stream Sing Sing and other A24 hits on Max is to sign up for a single month and cancel before you're charged for another. However, if you choose to stick around instead, you can save up to 16%. Rather than $9.99 per month with ads, an annual subscription will run you $99.99 per, which breaks down to only $8.33 per month.

Best Max deal with no ads: Save 16% on a Max Ad-Free annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max (No Ads) annual subscription $169.99 per year (save 16%) Get Deal

Similarly, those who prefer an ad-free experience can also save 16% on a yearly Max ad-free plan. There are two different tiers to choose from: Max Ad-Free and Max Ultimate Ad-Free. Both tiers offer an ad-free viewing experience, but the Ultimate tier takes things a step further with 4K Ultra HD video quality and Dolby Atmos. The basic ad-free tier will run you either $16.99 per month or $169.99 per year, which breaks down to about $14.17 per month. The Ultimate tier costs either $20.99 per month or $209.99 per year, which breaks down to $17.50 per month.

Best Max deal for Cricket customers: Free Max with ads for customers on the $60/month unlimited plan Opens in a new window Credit: Cricket / Max Max (with ads) Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month plan Get Deal

If you're on Cricket's $60 per month unlimited plan, you'll get a free Max with ads subscription (a $99.99 per year value), no questions asked. Once you're signed up for the plan, just head over to the Max app, choose Cricket as your provider, and enter your credentials to log in. Check out the terms and conditions on Cricket's website to learn more.

Best Max deal for DoorDash users: Free Max with ads with DashPass annual plan Opens in a new window Credit: DoorDash / Max Max (with ads) Free with DashPass annual plan ($8/month) Get Deal

Another way to get Max for free in 2025 is by signing up for a DashPass annual plan, which costs $96 per year ($8 per month). That's on top of the $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on eligible orders. Eligible subscribers must activate their Max subscription in their DoorDash account. The deal only applies to the Max plan with ads, but you can upgrade for a discounted rate if you want to eliminate them.

Best Max deal for students: Save 50% on Max with ads Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Student $4.99 per month for 12 months Get Deal

If you're a college student, you can sign up for an entire year of Max with ads for just $4.99 per month instead of the usual $9.99 per month. That's 50% in savings. Just verify your student status through UNiDAYS to receive a unique discount code that will drop the price.

Best bundle deal: Get Max, Disney+, and Hulu for up to 43% off Opens in a new window Credit: Disney / Hulu / Max Disney+, Hulu, and Max $16.99 per month (with ads), $29.99 per month (no ads) Get Deal

While it's not the cheapest way to watch Sing Sing, the Disney+ bundle that includes Hulu and Max is one of the best deals in streaming. By bundling all three streaming services together, you'll save up to 43%. Typically, each service will cost you at minimum $9.99 per month on its own, but with the bundle, you'll pay just $16.99 per month (reg. $25.97) for all three with ads or $29.99 per month (reg. $48.97) without.

Get 1TB of lifetime cloud storage for $120 with this iCloud alternative

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Enjoy dependable, secure, and private data storage with a 1TB lifetime subscription to Koofr Cloud Storage, now $690 off the usual price and just $119.97 with code KOOFR through March 30. 

Deciding on a cloud storage service is almost like picking a life partner. Koofr checks all the right boxes—trustworthy, secure, incredibly easy to access, and, best of all, free from recurring fees.

Secure your important data with a real catch with Koofr. If you act fast, you can score 1TB of a lifetime subscription to Koofr Cloud Storage for just $119.97 (reg. $810) with code KOOFR through March 30. 

Pay once, enjoy safe storage for life

Storing your data with a big-name cloud provider feels like riding an endless carousel of monthly fees. If you want to get off the ride, Koofr Cloud Storage is an excellent alternative.

This trusted cloud storage option started back in 2013. It offers a lifetime subscription option that doesn't require monthly payments. Get 1TB of storage for life for a low one-time price, allowing you to house 250,000 12MP photos, 500 hours of HD video, or 6.5 million PDF files. 

If you're already established with another service, Koofr offers unmatched accessibility. Easily access your files from Dropbox, Google Drive, Amazon, and OneDrive — making Koofr your all-in-one cloud storage hub. 

Aside from making things easier and cheaper, Koofr offers unique features like the Koofr Duplicate Finder. It helps you find and remove duplicate files, saving you time and space on your account.

Unlike most cloud storage providers, Koofr doesn't track your data. Your files will be encrypted both in transfer and during rest, so you can rest easy knowing you have total privacy. 

Let Koofr Cloud Storage save you money monthly with this 1TB lifetime subscription to Koofr Cloud Storage, now just $119.97 with code KOOFR through March 30. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Koofr Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB) $119.97
$810 Save $690.03 Get Deal

Make peace with PDFs with a lifetime license to this $24 app

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Make working with PDFs an enjoyable, easy experience with a lifetime license to PDF Converter Pro, now $76 off the usual price and just $23.99 with code SAVE20 if you purchase before March 30. 

Quick, name the most problematic file format. Does it start with a P? PDFs are universally loathed for a reason: they're difficult to work with and seem to pop up in both your personal and professional life constantly. 

If you'd like to end your hatred for these files, PDF Converter Pro can help. And now, with their lifetime license, you can do so for life for just $23.99 (reg. $99) with code SAVE20 through March 30. 

Finally make peace with PDFs

PDFs are unavoidable, so learn to live with them with some assistance from PDF Converter Pro. 

Easily convert files from PDF to Microsoft Word, Excel, HTML, JPG, or other file formats. Need to turn something into a PDF? This all-in-one PDF converter can help with that, as well. 

PDF Converter Pro offers a speedy conversion process, saving time and effort. And don't worry, that ultra-fast speed won't affect your content. The app ensures a super high output quality, with the integrity of your files staying intact. 

Aside from the basic conversion processes, PDF Converter Pro also gets pretty fancy. You can extract text from image-based PDF documents with the original format and graph if needed, thanks to the built-in OCR technology. You can also merge multiple PDF files, split them, or compress files too large to send. 

Have sensitive information in a document? PDF Converter Pro can protect files with passwords and then encrypt or unlock them as needed. 

Work smarter, not harder when it comes to PDFs with this lifetime license to PDF Converter Pro, now just $23.99 with code SAVE 20 through March 30. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acethinker PDF Converter Pro: Lifetime License $23.99
$100 Save $76.01 Get Deal

Enola Gay No Homo: The Daily Show mocks Trump administrations sloppy anti-DEI measures

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 04:23

The Daily Show's Jordan Klepper has mocked the Trump administration's "lazy" attempt to delete diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) content from federal websites. The sweeping measure resulted in the deletion of content about baseball player and civil rights icon Jackie Robinson's military service, as well as the Enola Gay, the plane which dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima during World War II. The Pentagon stated that the removal of this information was a mistake brought about by their reliance on software to do the job.

"Don't blame us, blame our racist software! We should have never ChatKKK," quipped Klepper. "They just Ctrl+F-ed for gay-sounding key words and deleted anything that showed up. Now kids won't know about the Enola Gay, they won't know about transport planes, and they'll never hear about the heroic service of Captain Grindr McScissoring."

Klepper also took aim at Republicans attempting to boost "sugar daddy" Elon Musk by promoting Tesla, calling it "a bit gross," and mocked the "sloppy" release of unredacted files concerning John F. Kennedy's assassination — which included the private information of over 200 people.

"Social Security numbers, addresses, full names," said Klepper. "The only thing that wasn't in the JFK papers was who killed JFK."

Severance puts a spin on the Orpheus and Eurydice myth in its Season 2 finale

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 03:00

Throughout Severance Season 2, fans and critics alike have drawn connections between Mark (Adam Scott) and his wife Gemma (Dichen Lachman) and the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance's brilliant Season 2 finale, explained

The comparison makes sense: In the myth, Eurydice dies from a snakebite and goes to the underworld. Similarly, Gemma is presumed dead in Severance, although she's really in the Lumon basement, which is its own kind of underworld. Helly (Britt Lower) even goes so far as to call Lumon "hell" right to Jame Eagan's (Michael Siberry) face in the Season 2 finale, further cementing the connection.

Need more proof that Severance is in conversation with Greek myth? Mark name-drops Persephone, queen of the underworld in Greek myth, in Season 2, episode 2: a clear reference to another woman trapped below ground, who just so happens to be a key player in the story of Orpheus and Eurydice.

SEE ALSO: 21 burning 'Severance' questions we have after the Season 2 finale

Eurydice's husband Orpheus follows her to the underworld in the hopes of saving her, not unlike Mark's efforts to break Gemma out of Lumon all season long. However, these similarities had viewers worried. In the myth, Orpheus wins over Hades and Persephone with his musical talents. Because of this, Hades allows Eurydice to leave the underworld on one condition. As Orpheus guides her to the surface, he cannot look back to make sure she's there. If he does, Eurydice will be lost to him forever. So if Severance were to follow the original myth, would that mean that Mark is destined to make a similar mistake and doom Gemma?

Not quite.

Severance's Season 2 finale, "Cold Harbor," puts a twist on the Orpheus and Eurydice myth. The episode sees Mark — both his Innie and his Outie — free Gemma from the hell of the Testing Floor. So in this case, the Eurydice figure does make it out alive. Great news, right? Well, don't get too excited just yet. There's still the Orpheus figure, Mark, to worry about. And just like in Greek myth, Mark — specifically Innie Mark — does turn around.

But Innie Mark doesn't turn around to look back for Gemma. He actually looks back for his own love: Helly. And in doing so, he chooses not to leave Lumon and revert to his Outie, likely retiring himself in the process. Instead, he chooses to run deeper into Lumon with Helly, in a sequence that mirrors Season 2's very first scene.

So in the end, Severance reverses the Orpheus and Eurydice myth with its own sci-fi twist. Eurydice makes it out, but Orpheus stays behind. But in this case, Orpheus has another woman he loves, while Eurydice is left to grieve the loss of her husband. With this cliffhanger in mind, what's next for the doomed couples of Severance? Are Innie Mark and Helly destined to roam the Lumon underworld forever? Is there a chance for a reunion between Gemma and Mark? We've gone beyond the myth now, and the future has never been more uncertain.

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on Apple TV+.

Severance Season 2 ends with a heartbreaking callback to the Season 2 premiere

Mashable - Fri, 03/21/2025 - 03:00

Severance is a show about many things: consciousness, bodily autonomy, baby goats. It's also a show about hallways.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance's brilliant Season 2 finale, explained

By this point, Lumon's blinding white hallways are a Severance character all on their own. The actors get lost in them. Characters throughout Season 1 and 2 spend good chunks of time mapping them. And in the Season 2 premiere, "Hello, Ms. Cobel," Severance treated us to a long, mind-bending sequence where Innie Mark (Adam Scott) charged through Lumon's dizzying halls in search of Ms. Casey (Dichen Lachman), whom he'd just learned was also his Outie's wife, Gemma.

That opening gets a remix in the last moments of Severance's Season 2 finale, "Cold Harbor." Innie Mark manages to free Gemma from the Severed Floor, sending her into the non-Severed stairwell in the hopes she can escape Lumon for good. But Mark doesn't join her. Instead, he grabs Helly's (Britt Lower) hand and takes off running back into the Severed Floor. Now, in a mirror of his "Hello, Ms. Cobel" run, Mark's "Cold Harbor" run carries him away from Gemma, whereas he started the season running towards her.

SEE ALSO: 21 burning 'Severance' questions we have after the Season 2 finale

The callback to Season 2's opening sequence emphasizes Innie Mark's changing relationship to his own wants throughout the season. At first, he wanted to find and save Gemma for his Outie, even as his relationship with Helly bloomed into a full-on romance. But in the Season 2 finale, he realized that him leaving Gemma and Outie Mark together would lead to his retirement and the end of his time with Helly. In the Season 2 finale, he tries to find the best of both worlds for him, and that means saving Gemma and fulfilling the goal he set himself at the start of the season, but also staying back with Helly and realizing his own dream.

Each of these running scenes, both directed by Ben Stiller, differ stylistically. As the season opener, the "Hello, Ms. Cobel" running sequence is showier, with Stiller creating the illusion of a oner. The camera dips and soars around a discombobulated Mark, disorienting the audience along with him as he sprints through the fluorescent white halls.

By contrast, the running scene in "Cold Harbor" is slower, and not just because it uses slow motion! There are cuts breaking up the action, as well as fewer flashier camera movements. Instead, the camera — moving a bit shakily as opposed to the smoothness seen in "Hello, Ms. Cobel" — stays close on Helly and Mark, then becomes the point they're running towards. These less frenetic movements, along with the slow motion and the eventual freeze frame, allow us to really linger on Mark's choice. Yes, there's a beauty to his and Helly's romance and to his decision to fight for them. But there's horror in it, too: Gemma may never see her husband again, and Outie Mark's consciousness might be lost.

So, as red lights ring Mark and Helly while they run, Severance invites us to consider everything they could represent beyond just Lumon's alarms. The warm hue of the red breaks up Lumon's white monotony, perhaps a nod to Mark and Helly finding romance in the most unlikely of places. Yet there's also a sense of doom to them. Mark and Helly may be running away from the outside world, but can they really outrun it — and Lumon — forever?

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on Apple TV+.

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