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For Spirit Day, Laverne Cox delivered one of the best monologues you'll see on late night TV on "The Daily Show."

TL;DR: Live stream Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League for free on 10Play. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Saudi Pro League does not have the history or the prestige of something like the Premier League or La Liga, but it is a league that's absolutely stacked with talent, so it's always fun to watch the action. And better yet, you can watch top games between the best teams without actually spending anything.

If you want to watch Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha?

Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League kicks off at 11 a.m. ET on Oct. 18. This fixture takes place at the Kingdom Arena.

How to watch Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha for free

Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League is available to live stream for free on 10Play.

10Play is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Saudi Pro League from anywhere in the world.

Access a free live stream of Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha 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 Australia

4. Visit 10Play

5. Live stream Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha 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 not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Saudi Pro League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 10Play?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on 10Play, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

• 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 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.

Live stream Al Hilal vs. Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the Saudi Pro League for free on 10Play. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Domestic competitions like the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A have always battled for supremacy, but there's a new kid on the block. The Saudi Pro League made a huge splash in 2023 by attracting a bunch of top-level players from European leagues with astonishingly lucrative contracts.

Most of those big names are still competing in the Saudi Pro League, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mané. That means this league produces some of the highest-quality domestic football in the world, whether you like it or not.

If you want to watch the 2024-25 Premier League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Saudi Pro League?

The Saudi Pro League is the highest football division in the Saudi league system. There are 18 clubs in the Saudi Pro League, with every side playing each other twice over the course of the season (usually from August to May).

The defending champions are Al-Hilal.

How to watch the Saudi Pro League for free

The Saudi Pro League is available to live stream for free on 10Play. This free streaming service is offering live coverage of up to three fixtures every weekend, including every game featuring Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr FC.

10Play is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Saudi Pro League from anywhere in the world. This might sound complicated, but the process is actually really straightforward.

Access free live streams of the Saudi Pro League 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 Australia

4. Connect to 10Play

5. Watch Saudi Pro League fixtures 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 not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the Saudi Pro League without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch select fixtures before recovering your investment.

If you want to secure permanent access to free live streams from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for 10Play?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on 10Play, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

• 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.

Live stream select Saudi Pro League fixtures for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Watch the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

This season of F1 has been particularly interesting for fans, but there's something special on the calendar that makes a race weekend even more exciting: a sprint race. China, Miami, Austria, USA, Brazil, and Qatar will each host a sprint weekend this season, and you can watch each session without spending anything.

If you're interested in watching the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint?

The 2024 United States Grand Prix takes place over 56 laps of the 5,513-kilometre Circuit of The Americas in Austin. The sprint schedule can be found here:

• Sprint Qualifying — 5:30 to 6:14 p.m. ET on Oct. 18

• Sprint — 2 to 3 p.m. ET on Oct. 19

The good news is that the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint is available to live stream for free.

How to watch the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint for free

The 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint is available to live stream for free on the ServusTV.

ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone from around the world can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can access free live streams of F1 from anywhere in the world.

Access a free live stream of the US GP Sprint by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 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 Austria

4. Connect to ServusTV

5. Watch the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint 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 not free, but leading services do tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch F1 live streams without actually spending anything. This is clearly not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can stream the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for F1?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for live streaming F1 for free, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Austria

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected

• Fast streaming 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 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the 2024 United States Grand Prix Sprint for free with ExpressVPN.

"The Daily Show" host Desi Lydic unpacks Kamala Harris' interview with Bret Baier on Fox News.

Taylor Swift's Eras Tour makes its return stateside tonight (Oct. 18) in Miami and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) sees it as an opportunity to encourage youth voter turnout in battleground states like Florida!!!

SEE ALSO: Swifties for Kamala: How Taylor Swift fans are creating a new blueprint for political organizing

It's launching a Taylor Swift-themed Snapchat filter in battlegrounds states reading, "I'm in my voting era" followed by "Be fearless for..." Users complete the phrase by tapping through key issues like reproductive rights, climate action, racial justice, and student debt relief and selecting whichever resonates. It also directs users to IWillVote.com, the Democratic Party's flagship voter education website, to learn how to cast their ballot in the upcoming election.

"There are folks from all over the country heading to Miami for the Taylor Swift concert, but also fans from all over the country who will be tuning into it live. We wanted to capitalize on that moment and be creative in the ways that we're reaching some key voters — like young people, women, and the LGBTQ community — to talk to them about the issues that are going to matter most in this election," Rosemary Boeglin, DNC communications director, told Mashable. "You'll see that the Snapchat filter not only directs users to IWillVote.com, but it has them engage on the issues."

Additionally, the DNC is placing ads on a boat near Swift's concert venue and on billboards across Miami that read, "I'm in my Kamala Era" and "A new way forward...Ready for it?" The ads also direct viewers to IWillVote.com.

This is the first Snapchat filter the DNC has launched this election cycle. It's part of its strategy aimed at meeting young voters where they are in a fractured media environment.

According to Snapchat, it has more than 100 million users in the United States, around 80 percent of whom are at least 18 years old and eligible to vote. It has a higher percentage of users under 30 than other major social media platforms, according to the New York Times. The paper reported the Harris-Walz campaign has spent $5.3 million on Snapchat campaign ads so far, while the Trump campaign has yet to buy a single Snapchat ad.

This Snapchat campaign comes after the pop star endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in an Instagram post after the Presidential debate. To her 284 million followers she wrote, "I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election. I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them." The custom voter registration link she posted on her Instagram story that same night saw 405,999 visitors.

Also timed to Swift's Miami concert is Swifties for Kamala's You're Not Alone Kid friendship bracelet campaign. The grassroots organization of Swift fans is distributing Harris-themed friendship bracelets across the U.S. with a QR code directing the recipients to voting information.

Elijah Wood got to build his enigmatic 'Bookworm' character from the ground up. Here, he goes into detail on what elements were most crucial they got right.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

Many people resist the urge to get a decent VPN for their Android phone or tablet. Why bother with an extra app just to get online?

Over time, however, the scenarios in which you might need a VPN become more common. You could need to check what a site looks like from another geolocation, or test something that isn't available in your country. What often acts as the final straw is being unable to watch some of your favourite TV shows while travelling.

What is a VPN?

VPNs provide protection for your data and identity by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. All of your activity is untraceable and secure because everything passes through an encrypted tunnel. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside is protected against online threats.

Do you need a VPN for your Android?

Investing in a VPN is one of the best ways to ensure your safety and anonymity online. VPNs are important tools in the fight against scammers and cybercriminals, meaning you can use your Android device safe in the knowledge that you're secure from these threats.

VPNs can also be used to unlock streaming services from around the world, including the likes of Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. All you need to do is open up your preferred VPN, connect to a server from another country in order to spoof your IP to another address, and then head to your preferred streaming site. This process tricks the site into thinking you are based in another country, meaning you can watch all that great content that is normally blocked. If you stream on your Android, you could benefit from a VPN.

Should you use free VPNs?

The good news is that there are plenty of free versions of popular VPNs out there, plus free trials with full access to everything you get with a premium plan. The bad news is that there tends to always be a catch.

With free versions of popular VPNs, you normally get limited data usage. These plans will work fine if you aren't really online, but if you're going to be streaming or downloading anything, this simply isn't going to work. Free trials come with everything you get in a paid plan, but don't tend to last very long. So you'll be all set for a short time, but this isn't really a long-term solution.

What is the best VPN for Android?

Choosing a VPN provider is both easy and incredibly difficult. There are a lot of options to consider, but it's very hard to test how reliable they are in different scenarios. So below, you'll find a list of some VPNs that are just plain good. We've checked out everything on offer and highlighted a selection of the best providers, including popular names like PureVPN and CyberGhost VPN.

These are the best VPNs for Android in 2024.

Sport dominates the lives of millions of people around the world, and fortunately most of it is available to watch on one platform or another. That is unless you are abroad.

If you are travelling, you might find yourself blocked by your favourite streaming platforms. If you want to keep up to speed with all the action when abroad, you need to invest in a VPN. A VPN relocates your IP address back home and bypasses those pesky geographical restrictions. This means that you don't need to put your security at risk with some sketchy stream that regularly cuts out and fills your screen with risqué adverts.

What is a VPN?

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide protection for your data and identity when you're online by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. This means that all of your activity is untraceable and secure. Try thinking about VPNs as encrypted tunnels through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware.

Can you use free VPNs for streaming sport?

Yes, there are plenty of free versions of popular VPNs out there, plus free trials of VPNs with full access to everything you get with a premium plan. Alternatively, you can pay for a VPN. So which option is best for you and your lifestyle?

You get what you pay for with VPNs. There tends to always be a catch with free versions, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. If you're just an occasional user, these plans will work fine. But if you're going to be streaming or downloading, this isn't going to work. Free trials are a little bit different: they come with everything you get in a paid plan, but obviously they don't tend to last very long. Trials are great for testing out a service before committing, but this isn't a long-term solution.

How do you watch sport with a VPN?

All you need to do is open your VPN of choice, connect to a secure server located back home, and enjoy undisturbed coverage of your preferred sport platform. It's that easy. The only difficult aspect is actually selecting a VPN service to use. That's because there are so many great services out there, offering different sets of features that will suit some users more than others.

What is the best VPN for sport?

A VPN could provide access to games that would usually be out of reach. We have made choosing a service as easy as possible. We have tracked down the best VPNs for speed, security, simplicity, and much more, so you can make an informed decision.

These are the best VPNs for watching sport in 2024.

"The Late Show" host Stephen Colbert unpacks Kamala Harris' interview with Bret Baier on Fox News.

SAVE $20: As of Oct.18, the Ninja PB051SG Coffee Maker is on sale for $79.99 on Amazon. That's 20% off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja PB051SG Coffee Maker $79.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

Barista-quality coffee when you wake up is every coffee lover's dream. And this dream can very well become your reality.

Before you go planning an early morning coffee run in your pajamas, why not try out the Ninja PB051SG Coffee Maker? Take-out quality coffee, from your own home. And as of Oct. 18, this coffee machine is reduced to $79.99 at Amazon, saving you $20 on list price. It even has a built-in milk frother, so if a super-dry cappuccino is your drink of choice, you'll be well served.

But our favorite thing about this coffee machine is in the name, you can use both ground coffee and pods. With most machines making you choose one, we like that this Ninja model lets you pick from a wide range of coffee brands and different levels of convenience.

SEE ALSO: Upgrade your morning brew with this heavily discounted Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine

It has a super slim and stylish design, so it won't stand out in your kitchen. And if you like your countertops clear, it's nifty enough to be hidden away in between uses. The colorways are stylish too, and fitting for most kitchen designs. Sage Green, Glacier Blue, Black, and Stone are all available at this discounted price.

Ready to drop your instant coffee? This is a limited-time deal on Amazon, so don't waste any time.

Apple's iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro boast much-improved battery life, but for some users, the opposite has been the case.

According to a pretty large number of posts on Apple's official forums and Reddit (via MacRumors), battery life has been pretty abysmal for some iPhone 16 and 16 Pro owners running iOS 18. The complaints actually started earlier, while iOS 18 was still in beta, but the issue apparently hasn't been fixed, bringing a new wave of dissatisfied users now that iOS 18 is widely available.

SEE ALSO: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15: How are they different?

Most users who experienced the issue say their phones have simply drained very fast while being idle, or while doing fairly undemanding tasks like playing music. "Listened to music for the first 2.5 hours of my day (with less than 45 minutes screen time) and realized my battery was at 68 percent," said one user on Reddit. "I’m comparing my activity to my previous iPhone 14 I have to my girlfriend. She is at 78 percent while I’m at 45 percent. Something not going right here," said another.

Featured Video For You 5 reasons iPhone 16 is the best upgrade for you

It's worth noting, however, that some users aren't experiencing these problems, and some (but not all) said that upgrading to the iOS 18.1 beta remedied the issue.

Fortunately, this type of bug is quite common with new iOS releases; we've seen similar issues resolved after a software update. Now it's up to Apple to look into this one and fix it.

The Daily Mini Crossword is one of the many popular daily word games available on Mashable. Powered by Arkadium, the mini crossword offers a speed round of puzzle fun with clues that are sure to challenge experienced crossword enthusiasts.

But there's no need to let the challenge get in the way of your enjoyment! If moments are turning to minutes after getting stuck on a clue, find the answers you need to progress right here.

And when you're done, check out the many other word games you can play on Mashable, including a full-size crossword.

Also, if you get stuck on any other daily word games, such as Wordle, Connections, or Strands — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 18 SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Friday, October 18, 2024:

AcrossStadium souvenirs

• The answer is Caps.

Animated mermaid

• The answer is Ariel.

Buzz off

• The answer is Leave.

Bowling alleys

• The answer is Lanes.

Boys, to men

• The answer is Sons.

DownPoker declaration

• The answer is Call.

Regions

• The answer is Areas.

"Sing us a song, you're the _____ man"

• The answer is Piano.

Lucky number

• The answer is Seven.

Amount to make do with

• The answer is Less.

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.

SAVE $135: As of Oct.18, the Garmin Venu 2S is on sale for $264.99 on Amazon. That's 34% off the list price, and the lowest it has been at Amazon in almost a year.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Venu 2S $264.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $135.00 Get Deal

A deal on Garmin is always worth considering, and this latest deal on the Venu 2S smartwatch is perfect for anyone looking for a watch that blends lifestyle features with fitness tracking.

As of Oct. 18, this Garmin watch is on sale for $264.99 on Amazon, saving you 34% on list price. This is also the lowest price it has been available for in 11 months.

The Venu 2S is the perfect tracker for someone who enjoys a range of fitness activities as well as lifestyle tracking. Health features include heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and even stress level feedback. Plus, it offers built-in GPS, so you can track your outdoor activities without needing to take your phone with you.

SEE ALSO: Fitbit vs. Apple Watch: Putting smartwatches and fitness trackers to the test

The Venu 2S also comes with music capabilities. Download up to 650 songs to your watch, including playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, and connect with wireless headphones. Another reason to leave your phone at home.

The screen is AMOLED, meaning it's bright, colorful, and incredibly vibrant. And if battery life is important to you, the Venu 2S is seriously impressive, lasting up to 10 days in smartwatch mode and up to 7 hours in GPS mode with music.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act quick so you don't miss out.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Extremely

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for October 18 Hurdle Word 1 answer

ULTRA

Hurdle Word 2 hint

More than a friend.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 18 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

LOVER

Hurdle Word 3 hint

The sleep version of this has treatment available.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for October 18 Hurdle Word 3 answer

APNEA

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Otherwordly being.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for October 18 Hurdle Word 4 answer

ALIEN

Final Hurdle hint

Also known as a pic.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

PHOTO

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

With a clever premise and a taste for violence, Parker Finn's feature debut, Smile, has earned many fans since its release in 2022. Now, the highly anticipated sequel, Smile 2, takes the previously established creepy grin curse from the first film — which passes from person to person after someone witnesses a horrific death — and adds the elements of fame and the entertainment industry to the mix. What would happen if a pop star was haunted by a malevolent spirit in front of countless cameras? 

Bringing in elements from movies like It Follows and The Ring, the original Smile centered on a psychiatric doctor named Rose (Sosie Bacon), who witnessed the gruesome, self-inflicted death of one of her patients. Soon after, Rose began to lose track of reality as increasingly strange things happened around her, including the recurrence of the chilling smile that's this franchise's namesake. The movie's finale was tantalizingly open-ended, leaving the door ajar for even more mayhem. 

SEE ALSO: How to watch: Best Scary Movies Smile 2 is even more fun and gory this time around.  Naomi Scott in "Smile 2." Credit: Paramount Pictures

Picking up just days after the original left off, the movie's latest victim is former good cop Joel (Kyle Gallner), who remains haunted by the immolation death of his girlfriend Rose. Joel tries to pass the smile curse to another unlucky recipient, but he soon dies a terrible death anyway, passing this paranormal plague to a drug dealer named Lewis (Lukas Gage). Lewis in turn passes it to pop star Skye Riley (Naomi Scott), who is still reeling from a devastating car crash that injured her and killed her boyfriend. As in the first film, Skye begins to see and hear things others can't, time slips through her fingers in a blink, and nightmares start to take over her reality. 

To match his superstar heroine, Finn goes all in on creating an unpredictable narrative that's full of jump scares, creepy imagery, and spine-tingling sound effects. There are even more violent injuries, body horror, and bloody deaths to make an audience recoil, and plenty of upsetting details, from Skye's compulsive hair-pulling habit (aka trichotillomania) to a group of smiling backup dancers chasing Skye through her apartment in choreographed formation. These scares can feel delightfully over the top, almost like a carnival ride, but they're as creative and horrific as the best parts of the Final Destination series. 

Finn builds up Skye's story so that she's the perfect victim for this curse. She's battling her own demons and memories even before she's surrounded by those damned unnerving smiles. Skye struggles with the trauma of the car accident, as well as frayed relationships damaged by her struggles with addiction; others hold her history of addiction against her, assuming her current public meltdowns are nothing more than a relapse. As Skye, Scott is marvelous as our doomed heroine, acting out like a diva at her wit's end — yet one who’s resourceful enough to fight back against her omnipresent enemy. She performs the hell out of Cristobal Tapia de Veer's songs for the film, screams often and wildly, and wades through the bloodiness of her nightmares and worst moments of her life with equal amounts of fear and sadness. 

Keeping relationships can be just as scary as the movie's recurring rictus. Lukas Gage smiles in "Smile 2." Credit: Paramount Pictures

As with the original, the monster's style of gaslighting damages the main character's relationships with those around her, further isolating her until there really is no escape. And as in the horror classic A Nightmare on Elm Street, some of these fateful visions have a way of affecting the real world. Given Skye's public profession, Smile 2 finds time to explore the trappings of fame and how even beloved artists can feel alone in the entertainment industry. Before her performance, Skye meets several fans, including one obsessed devotee who wants her to be more than just a parasocial relationship. The scary encounter disturbs her even after he's escorted away by security. As Skye's condition deteriorates, her momager (Rosemarie DeWitt) pushes her to stay on track for her tour and often brushes aside her objections because she's more worried about pleasing other industry folks, like music exec Darius (Raúl Castillo). 

Smile 2 delivers the thrills and chills of its predecessor with an even more pronounced funhouse feel.

Skye's saving grace is her estranged friend Gemma (Dylan Gelula), who steals almost every scene she's in and brings in-jokes to break up Skye's increasingly bewildering situation. They're longtime friends who split over a year ago, and their estrangement has weighed heavily on Skye. In her moment of need, Gemma is the only person she can count on, and yet the thought of reaching out terrifies Skye almost as much as being left alone. Their relationship is one of the forces inspiring Skye to face her problems, but it's also one of her many sources of heartache. 

Smile 2 expands on what the original movie got right. Rosemarie DeWitt, left, and Naomi Scott star in "Smile 2." Credit: Paramount Pictures

It's not often that a sequel exceeds its original, but Smile 2 delivers the thrills and chills of its predecessor with an even more pronounced funhouse feel. The twists and turns of Finn's script can be just as shocking as many of the jump scares, defying expectations multiple times in a scene. The body horror dial feels a bit more turned up, with less time spent on explanations since the movie operates with the understanding that audiences have seen the original. Instead, Finn's script leads Skye through various deceptive paths at a swift pace, each one more outrageous than the previous, knowing that nothing is as effective at unnerving its audience as showing off that creepy toothy grin for an uncomfortable amount of time. 

Finn and his cinematographer, Charlie Sarroff, also have fun visually turning the movie on its head — sometimes literally. For example, several iconic shots of New York City, where Skye is supposed to kick off her grand tour, are flipped upside down, emphasizing that something is very wrong with our character. In another scene when Skye is lying in bed next to Gemma, the camera is tilted on its side, once again playing with perspective to show their close proximity to one another. If you watched the original, you'll know to expect the gore and the jump scares, but Finn has more surprises in store all the way to the credits, subverting some of his own story beats and keeping the audience in suspense even if they're already fans of Smile.

Smile 2 opens in theaters Oct. 18. 

Dating app Hinge is known for its prompts — so much so that other dating apps have started implementing them, too. Gone are the days of bare profiles and a few photos of you that are filtered to death. Today's singles want to know more about someone before sending a "like."

SEE ALSO: TikTok's retro dating dance trends harken back to the days of courtship

While Hinge revealed its top 25 prompts in 2023, Mashable asked which ones reign supreme going into this year's cuffing season. Here are Hinge's top 25 prompts based on how frequently they lead to conversations, as of October 2024:

1. I go crazy for — the new #1 prompt, up from #3 last year

2. My simple pleasures

3. The way to win me over is — was #1 last year

4. Together, we could

5. Typical Sunday — entered the top 5, was #9 last year

6. This year, I really want to

7. A life goal of mine

8. I'm looking for

9. Dating me is like — now in the top 10

10. We'll get along if

11. My most irrational fear — no longer in the top 10 like last year

12. I'm convinced that

13. My greatest strength

14. I want someone who

15. Unusual skills

16. My Love Language is

17. I'm weirdly attracted to

18. The key to my heart is

19. What if I told you that

20. I recently discovered that

21. The one thing you should know about me is

22. I'll fall for you if

23. I won't shut up about

24. I geek out on

25. All I ask is that you

"I geek out on" is a new addition to the list, bumping off last year's #25, "I bet you can't."

Last year, Hinge's director of relationship science Logan Ury told Mashable that prompts allow potential matches to see your silly and vulnerable sides. They're an opportunity to share your values and interests and show your quirks.

Don't write one-word answers! If you're serious about finding a partner — whether short or long-term — put some more thought into it. It can lead to an in-depth conversation. And if the prompts do lead you to meet someone offline, here's a guide to fun first dates this autumn.

TL;DR: Identify plants for life with Plantum’s premium plan — only $14.97 through October 27 for unlimited access.

Imagine walking through a garden or forest and being able to name every plant you see. With Plantum AI Plant Identifier’s premium lifetime subscription on sale for $14.97, you’ll have access to a powerful plant identification tool that makes every nature walk an adventure. Just snap a picture, and Plantum will instantly tell you the species, care tips, and fun facts about your leafy find.

Perfect for both plant newbies and green thumbs, Plantum uses AI to recognize thousands of plant species, offering detailed insights right on your phone. This app isn’t just for wild plants — it’s great for identifying houseplants, too. Whether you’re unsure about that new succulent or just curious about a flower you spotted, Plantum has the answers.

And with a lifetime subscription, you won’t need to worry about monthly fees or renewals. You get unlimited access to plant IDs, plant care guides, and a personal plant collection feature. Plus, with Plantum’s accurate care tips, you can keep your houseplants thriving without having to guess their needs.

This tool is a great gift for anyone who loves the outdoors (including yourself!), wants to learn more about the plants around them, or simply wants to take better care of their indoor garden. So, whether you’re on a hike, at the park, or just browsing your local nursery, Plantum makes plant identification fun and easy.

Until October 27 at 11:59 p.m., take advantage of this sale on a lifetime subscription to a Plantum AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan for $14.97 (reg. $59).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Plantum - AI Plant Identifier Plantum - AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription (For iOS Only) $14.97
$59.99 Save $45.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get a refurbished 2020 MacBook Air (M1, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) on sale for just $514.99 (reg. $1,499).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2020 refurbished Apple MacBook Air, 13.3-inch (M1, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $514.99
$1,499.00 Save $984.01 Get Deal

You're ready to upgrade your laptop, but not quite ready to drop $1,500. We've got you.

Right now, you can get a refurbished 2020 MacBook Air (M1, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) on sale for just $514.99 (reg. $1,499). It's grade-A refurbished, which means it's in near-mint condition and may have very minimal to zero amounts of scuffing on the case

What you can expect from your MacBook Air:

• Apple’s M1 chip delivers fast and efficient performance, perfect for multitasking, streaming, and everyday use

• 13.3-inch Retina display with True Tone technology provides vibrant colors and clear visuals for any task

• Lightweight and portable at just 2.8 pounds, making it ideal for students, travelers, and on-the-go professionals

• 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD ensure quick boot times, seamless app performance, and plenty of storage for essentials

• Top-tier refurbished quality: Minimal wear on the body with no visible damage, a pristine screen, and a keyboard in great shape.

  • Battery holds at least 80% of its original capacity, ensuring reliable performance

• All-day battery life up to 18 hours keeps you powered through work, entertainment, and creativity without constant charging

Upgrade to this refurbished 2020 Apple MacBook Air M1 on sale for $514.99 and enjoy premium Apple performance at an incredible price.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

You might not expect the minds behind 2020 horror comedy Come to Daddy to produce one of the sweetest family-friendly films of 2024, but Bookworm is full of such wonderful surprises.

SEE ALSO: 42 movies you'll want to see this fall

With Bookworm, director Ant Timpson has teamed back up with Come to Daddy screenwriter Toby Harvard and star Elijah Wood (Lord of the Rings, Yellowjackets) for another story of a child bonding with their estranged father. Only this time, Timpson and Harvard swap Come to Daddy's meat cleavers and flaming crossbows for magic tricks and outdoor adventuring. The result is an endearing treat anchored by great performances from both Wood and Nell Fisher (Evil Dead Rise) alike.

What is Bookworm about? Nell Fisher and Elijah Wood in "Bookworm." Credit: Vertical

The titular, self-described "card-carrying bookworm" is 11-year-old Mildred (Fisher), whom we first meet constructing an elaborate trap to ensnare her cat. Don't worry, she doesn't mean any harm! She's just fine-tuning her methods for catching the Canterbury Panther, a real-life New Zealand urban legend. The first person to capture proof of it will receive $50,000, and Mildred hopes to secure that money for her and her single mother Zo (Morgana O'Reilly). That money becomes extra necessary when Zo winds up in an exploding toaster-induced coma.

Enter Strawn Wise (Wood), Mildred's biological father and a full-time magician. (Although much like Arrested Development's Gob Bluth, he'd prefer the term "illusionist.") He's flown all the way from America to help her out, so imagine his surprise when he finds that Mildred wants nothing to do with him. She scoffs at his card tricks, pokes holes in all his illusions, and gives him such a thorough verbal dressing-down that you'll wonder how Strawn doesn't hang up his (comically large) hat right then and there and head home.

SEE ALSO: 'The Apprentice' review: Donald Trump biopic's secret weapon is Roy Cohn

Instead, Strawn decides to finally step into his role as a father and take Mildred on a camping trip to find the Canterbury Panther. Cue the adorable explorers' outfits, gorgeous landscape shots — as a diehard Lord of the Rings fan, it's great to see Wood adventuring through New Zealand again — and moving father-daughter bonding.

Bookworm delivers a heartfelt father-daughter story. Elijah Wood and Nell Fisher in "Bookworm." Credit: Vertical

That bonding doesn't come right away, nor does it come easily. Mildred understandably has trust issues when it come to her absentee father, issues that one simple camping trip won't fix. But Bookworm doesn't take the too-easy route of portraying Strawn as a totally deadbeat dad. Instead, Timpson and Harvard take care to explore his awkward attempts at connecting with Mildred — a David Copperfield–related mix-up is in the cards — and his own worries of failure, both as an illusionist and as a father. Wood is wonderful here, delivering a performance that runs the gamut from goofy to deeply melancholy. From fart jokes to contemplative monologues, he can do it all, managing to turn the wildly dressed Strawn — again, it's hard to get past his big hat — into a flesh-and-blood human.

Mildred, too, defies any possibility of just being another precocious child in film. Yes, she sasses her dad and is able to spout an alarming number of nature facts, but Timpson, Harvard, and a charming Fisher imbue her with so much more than a sharp mouth and wit. These things act as a shield for her loneliness, and were also borne out of it: A scene where Mildred laments her mother's overprotectiveness — comparing it to being wrapped in bubble wrap and cotton wool — is particularly effective thanks to Fisher's contemplative, deeply felt work.

The combination of Wood and Fisher's performances is pure magic, not only in scenes where they work through Strawn and Mildred's complicated relationship, but also in Bookworm's more adventurous sequences, which balance physical comedy and genuine danger on a knife's edge. Here, Timpson and cinematographer Daniel Katz craft moments that call to mind great adventure films of yore — including one scene on a rope bridge that feels undeniably Indiana Jones–inspired — while still keeping Bookworm grounded in Mildred and Strawn's personal journeys. Boasting elements that parents and kids alike will adore, Bookworm is proof that the live-action, family-friendly adventure genre is still alive and kicking.

Bookworm was reviewed out of its US premiere at Fantastic Fest 2024. It hits theaters Oct. 18.