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Target is hosting a huge Pokémon 30th Anniversary event: How to claim free promo cards this weekend

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 06:29

TL;DR: Target is hosting a nationwide Pokémon 30th Anniversary event on Sept. 27 from 12-4 p.m. local time. Attend to claim custom card crafts, free goodie bags, and limited-edition 30th Celebration TCG drops.

Nothing surprises me anymore when it comes to Pokémon. It doesn't matter how many collections and expansions hit the market. I know the world will collectively lose its mind whenever anything new drops. Nothing is changing anytime soon.

So when I heard that Target is planning a huge nationwide Pokémon 30th Anniversary event with merch, games, and giveaways, the hairs stood up on my neck. This is going to be big, so I want you to be prepared.

SEE ALSO: The Pokémon 30th Celebration box is way below market price — act fast to buy for $89.99 on Amazon

Here is everything you need to know if you plan to attend, what you can actually get, and how to prepare for the inevitable crowds.

When is the Target Pokémon event?

Target's Pokémon 30th Anniversary event takes place on Sunday, Sept. 27 from 12-4 p.m. local time at participating brick-and-mortar locations.

Store participation and stock allocations will vary by location, so I recommend checking the full list of participating stores or calling your local store beforehand to confirm they are hosting. It's also worth asking about their line policies, so you don't go home disappointed.

What freebies, activities, and demos are offered?

Target is setting up dedicated Pokémon areas in participating stores featuring a mix of interactive activities and freebies. You can expect a "draw-your-own Pokémon card" craft station that includes a plastic slab cover resembling a PSA-graded collectible. Select Target locations will also feature playable demos for Pokémon Pokopia on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Credit: Target

Everyone loves a freebie, and the good news is that you can expect promotional giveaways while supplies last. Target hasn't confirmed exactly what will be on offer just yet, but we're seeing rumors around goodie bags for attendees. According to reports, the first ~98 attendees in line will receive a bag of freebies, which includes a Mewtwo promo card and a special event ticket. That ticket can be redeemed to purchase two 30th Celebration Tins, if the rumors are true.

Demand during the Sept. 16 launch was massive, so what are your chances of actually getting your hands on anything during this event? You're going to be going up against scalpers, but what's new?

Daily Shows Desi Lydic roasts Melania Trumps new documentary with a brutal parody trailer

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 06:06

It's been less than a year since the Melania doc came out, but apparently the people want more?

In the clip above, Daily Show host Desi Lydic gives a detailed breakdown of Melania Trump's recent appearance on Fox & Friends, during which the First Lady announced an upcoming docuseries.

"Another Melania documentary?" asks a confused Lydic. "Melania, I love you, but unless you're living with Nathan Fielder in this thing, no-one is asking for this."

Lydic finishes with a parody trailer for the docuseries, inter-spliced with some impressively unenthusiastic Fox & Friends interview clips.

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The Pokémon 30th Celebration box is way below market price — act fast to buy for $89.99 on Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:46

TL;DR: As of Sept. 24, the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is available for $89.99 at Amazon. That's well under market price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box $89.99 at Amazon
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For Pokémon fans, there are few greater pleasures than finding product at way below market price. And that's exactly what you'll get with Amazon's current price on the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box.

As of Sept. 24, the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is available on Amazon for just $89.99. According to the market price listing at TCG Player, that's a total saving of $88.64 vs. the current market price of $178.63.

The catch is that you can't just rock up on Amazon and buy one. It's so in-demand that Amazon requires potential buyers to click the "request invite" button, which puts you in a random ballot to actually purchase one.

SEE ALSO: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Sylveon ex Tin is under market price at Walmart — buy for under $60 while stocks last

If you're randomly selected, you’ll get an email to let you know that you’re eligible to buy Pokémon’s 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box. The email will contain a purchase link valid for 72 hours. But don't wait around — at this price, there's no guarantee that this Elite Trainer Box will still be in stock.

If your invitation request isn't selected, Amazon will keep it on file, and you may receive an invitation after restocks. 

The Elite Trainer Box includes nine Pokémon 30th Celebration booster packs, a full-art foil Nidorina promo, 16 foil Basic Energy cards, 65 sleeves, dice, a coin, dividers, a player’s guide, and a Pokémon TCG Live code. 

Don't miss the chance to grab the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box at $89.99 — almost half of the current market price.

Amazon device deals are live ahead of October Prime Day: Shop Fire tablets, Blink cameras, Fire TV Sticks, and more

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:43
The best early October Prime Day Amazon device deals: Best tablet deal Amazon Fire HD 10 $72.99 (save $82) Get Deal Best Fire TV deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $32 with code 4KFTVSAVE) Get Deal best blink camera deal Blink Outdoor 2K+ with free Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $34.99 (save $134.99) Get Deal Best eero deal Amazon eero Pro 7 $269.99 (save $30) Get Deal

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days (aka October Prime Day) is coming in hot, and with it, a boatload of discounts on Amazon's own devices. It officially runs from Oct. 6 through Oct. 7 this year and presents the perfect opportunity to kickstart your holiday shopping.

It only makes sense that Amazon would offer the biggest markdowns on its own devices. And since Amazon decided to swiftly jack up prices across its hardware range last month by as much as 60 percent(!), the October Prime Day sale couldn't come at a better time.

Things are starting a bit slow, but there are already several Fire tablets, Blink cameras, Fire TV streaming sticks and soundbars, and eero devices on sale. We're hoping to see some big price drops on Kindles and Echo devices, as these were the gadgets hit the hardest in the price hike, but so far they're MIA. Don't worry — we'll keep a watchful eye out and update this story if and when those deals appear.

Aside from devices themselves, Amazon's typical subscription deals for newcomers (and returning users) are already live. You can score three free months of Kindle Unlimited, four months of Audible Standard for 99 cents per month, or four free months of Amazon Music Unlimited.

We'll be tracking all the best Amazon device deals below, leading up to and throughout the Prime Big Deal Days sale. You do need to be a Prime member to score the biggest discounts during the event, so be sure to sign up before it kicks off.

Best Fire tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet $72.99 at Amazon
$154.99 Save $82.00   Get Deal Why we like it

While it's hardly a new device, the Fire HD 10 tablet is still a solid pick for anyone who just wants a tablet to stream shows, check emails, and browse social media. Mashable's reviewer SaVanna Shoemaker called it "lighter and faster than its predecessors, with a long battery life and vivid picture that makes it great for on-the-go entertainment." Compared to other well-known tablets, she also adds that it's an "excellent value." It's not going to knock your socks off, but it'll get the job done and won't break the bank — especially now that it's on sale for only $72.99, a full 53% off its list price.

More Fire tablet dealsBest Fire TV Stick deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $32 *with Prime-exclusive code 4KFTVSAVE* Get Deal Why we like it

The entire Fire TV Stick lineup was affected by the August price hike, so we're surprised that the discounts are still at pre-hike levels. Prime members can score the 4K Select for only $17.99 with the code 4KFTVSAVE, which is 64% in savings.

The 4K Select is Amazon's newest 4K Fire TV Stick with HDR10+ support and the first to feature its new Linux-based operating system. That means a few things: it's speedier and more streamlined than older Fire Sticks, but also more limited. If you like sideloading apps, this streaming stick won't let you (go with the 4K Plus instead). It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN.

More Fire TV dealsBest Blink camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 2K+ with free Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $34.99 at Amazon
$169.98 Save $134.99   Get Deal Why we like it

Who doesn't love free stuff? In this early October Prime Day deal, you can get the Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ for no extra cost when you purchase the Blink Outdoor 2K+ for $34.99. That's 65% off the camera itself and nearly 80% off the combined cost. If you're looking to enhance your home security but don't want to spend a fortune, this bundle is an excellent start. You'll get sharp 2K video, enhanced audio, and night vision with no installation hassle. Everything is battery-powered and lasts for months at a time.

More Blink camera dealsBest Eero deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero Pro 7 $269.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

If your WiFi is laggy, it may be a good time to invest in an Amazon Eero system. Ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, the Eero Pro 7 Mesh WiFi router is down to $269.99, which is $30 cheaper than usual. It supports over 200 devices, internet plans up to 5 Gbps, and covers up to 2,000 square feet, helping to optimize your connection and eliminate dead spots. Even if you're not a tech guru, it's a breeze to set up thanks to Eero's step-by-step guide in the app.

More Eero deals

The best early October Prime Day kitchen deals: We found live deals Ninja and Keurig deals worth grabbing

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:37
The best October Prime Day kitchen deals at a glance: Best air fryer deal Ninja Foodi Air Fryer (10-Quart) $149.99 (save $80) Get Deal Best blender deal Ninja UltraCrush Pro Kitchen System 72 oz. Blender $159.98 (save $60.01) Get Deal Best ice cream maker deal Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker $129.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best espresso machine deal Casabrews 3700 Espresso Machine with Steam Wand $99.99 (save $10) Get Deal

Cooking at home is supposed to save money, but between grocery prices and the cost of decent appliances, it doesn't always feel like it.

Amazon's October Prime Day (officially Prime Big Deal Days) doesn't start until Oct. 6, but many early kitchen deals are already live. If you need a new air fryer, want to upgrade your morning coffee station, or just need to replace a worn-out pan without spending a fortune, we found the best early discounts to grab right now.

Best kitchen deal Ninja Foodi Air Fryer (10-Quart) $149.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $80   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

At $149.99 (down from $229.99), the Ninja Foodi 10-Quart DualZone is just 99 cents above its all-time low.

Instead of cooking in batches or relying on your oven, it gives you two separate 5-quart baskets that run at different temperatures simultaneously. The Smart Finish setting automatically syncs the timers so both baskets finish cooking at the exact same time, while Match Cook lets you duplicate settings across both sides for full 10-quart meals. It also includes six standard functions — air fry, broil, roast, bake, dehydrate, and keep warm — and has enough total capacity to handle about eight pounds of wings.

More early Prime Day kitchen deals

Air fryers and countertop appliances

Coffee and espresso makers

Cookware and bakeware

Blenders and ice cream makers

Products to watch (aka the stuff that will probably go on sale soon)

These items aren't on sale just yet, but if past sales have taught us anything, they usually drop as soon as Prime Big Deal Days officially begins. If you've been eyeing any of these, add them to your cart now and hold off on buying until Oct. 6.

Jimmy Kimmel sums up Trump TV in 1 brutal sentence

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:32

Days after Donald Trump revoked White House access for journalists from CNN, Politico, and MS NOW, the administration launched a 24/7 "Trump TV" YouTube stream. And on Wednesday Jimmy Kimmel had one brutal sentence to sum it up.

"So far it's going about as well as everything else with Donald Trump's name on it," Kimmel says in the clip above. "It peaked with an audience of about 8,500 people on Monday night. By this morning they were down to fewer than 500 viewers. The only channel doing worse is the Strait of Hormuz."

Kimmel finishes with yet another parody ad, this time for a lineup of made-up Trump TV shows including "The All-White Lotus" and "America's Most Dangerous Windmills".

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Early Prime Day deal: Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 drops to $289.99 at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:30

SAVE $40: As of Sept. 24, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is on sale for $289.99 on Amazon. That's a 12% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 $289.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $40   Get Deal

October Prime Day (also known as Prime Big Deal Days) kicks off on Oct. 6. The two-day event will feature a range of products at reduced prices, from tech to household essentials. But as always, Amazon has started introducing some deals early, with discounts on fitness trackers already live.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is included in the mix. As of Sept. 24, you can find it reduced to $289.99, down by $40.

This watch is packed with a wide range of features, including tools to help you sleep better. Advanced Sleep Coaching and Bedtime Guidance both help you build a better sleep routine, using your personalized Energy Score, which accounts for your previous day's sleep, activity, and heart rate to give you a snapshot of your overall health.

If you're a runner, you'll get the benefit of the Running Coach feature. This analyzes your performance and gives you real-time feedback, with training programs for events ranging from 5Ks to marathons. You can also use it to monitor your heart rate, track steps, and check your blood pressure when calibrated with a compatible blood pressure cuff. 

Plus, it has lots of lifestyle features too that make it a great smartwatch. Check sports scores, see the weather, and read your phone notifications at a glance. It also has a built-in AI assistant that can help with tasks and to-do lists.

Head to Amazon to get this Samsung watch deal.

This stacked Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set is heavily discounted ahead of Prime Day — save $70

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:24

SAVE $70: As of Sept. 24, the Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set is on sale for $129 at Amazon. That's a 35% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Craftsman Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set $129 at 169
$199 Save $70   Get Deal

Prime Day is still a couple of weeks away, officially getting underway on Oct. 6. That hasn't stopped Amazon from dropping deals ahead of the main event.

You can already find early discounts across a range of products, including fitness trackers and portable power stations. But one of the standout early discounts we've spotted is this Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set, currently $70 off. If you've been seeking a new set of tools, this 230-piece set is now down to $129.

SEE ALSO: Power tool deals are already live ahead of October Prime Day: Save on DeWalt, Craftsman, and more

For under $130, you'll get 91 sockets, three ratchets, 21 wrenches, 44 hex keys, 66 specialty bits, and five accessories, all packed into a durable three-drawer tool kit.

The low-profile ratchet has a head that's up to 25% thinner for tight spaces, and the 72-tooth design offers a 5-degree arc swing for easier movement. A one-handed locking dial makes it simple to open and close the drawers, and they can also be nested on top of the toolbox for quick access and temporary storage.

The kit is VERSASTACK compatible, so you can customize a storage setup that suits your needs.

Get this toolbox deal at Amazon now.

Pretty but lethal: 8BitDo’s new Ultimate 3 Xbox controller doesnt compromise on performance

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:17

TL;DR: Officially shipping across Europe and available in the U.S. for $99.99, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3 Lavender Dusk brings top-tier competitive features to Xbox, PC, and mobile. Packed with drift-free TMR joysticks and an eye-catching Rococo-inspired pastel shell, it blends high-end performance with a surprisingly gentle aesthetic.

Opens in a new window Credit: 8BitDo 8BitDo Ultimate 3 Lavender Dusk $99.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now

It's not every day a high-performance gaming controller gets described as "gentle, calm, and romantic," but 8BitDo somehow pulled it off.

Distributed across European territories courtesy of Game Outlet Europe and available direct-to-consumer in the U.S., the new 8BitDo Ultimate 3 Lavender Dusk special edition trades the hyper-aggressive, stealth-bomber look of typical pro pads for a soft, Rococo-inspired pastel scheme in natural lavender tones.

While the exterior looks soft and gentle, the internals are built purely for competitive play. At the center of the hardware upgrade are new Tunnel Magnetoresistance (TMR) joysticks. Unlike standard analog sticks that wear down and drift over time, these use magnetic sensors to guarantee long-term durability and pinpoint sensitivity.

Credit: 8BitDo

Even better, 8BitDo built physical "Force Rings" right around the base of the thumbsticks. Want tighter resistance for precise sniping in shooters? Dial the ring to increase tension. Need loose, lightning-fast flicks for racing or action games? Spin it back down.

The Hall Effect impulse triggers use contactless magnetic sensors with two-stage physical stops, allowing you to instantly convert them into hair-triggers for shooters. To expand your control options, 8BitDo paired the two remappable rear paddle buttons with extra high-speed L4 and R4 bumpers right beside the standard shoulder triggers.

PC gamers get a few exclusive perks, including 6-axis motion controls (gyro aiming) under 2.4GHz mode and an ultra-responsive 1,000Hz polling rate when plugged in via USB-C. For audio, a standard 3.5mm jack sits at the base for plugging in your wired headset.

Credit: 8BitDo Credit: 8BitDo

The included zero-contact wireless charging dock keeps your setup clean, automatically powering down and charging the controller when docked, then waking it back up the second you lift it. You also get tri-mode connectivity to jump seamlessly between Xbox consoles, Windows PC, and mobile via low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, USB-C wired (supporting up to a 1,000Hz polling rate on PC), or Bluetooth.

Ready to trade boring black-and-green hardware for soft pastel perfection? Grab the 8BitDo Ultimate 3 Lavender Dusk before this special edition sells out.

Your backyard is now a live TV show: The Birdfy app just landed on Roku

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:14

TL;DR: Birdfy just launched its official app on the Roku Channel Store, becoming the first smart birding brand to stream directly to TV screens. If you own a Birdfy camera feeder and a TV running Roku OS 15.1 or higher, you can now livestream your feeder, search clips by species, and cast footage to family members anywhere in the world.

Watching wild birds fight over sunflower seeds on a tiny phone screen is great, but watching it in full HD on your 65-inch TV hits different. Birdfy, the smart tech brand behind popular AI-powered bird feeders, baths, and birdhouses, just released its official app on the Roku Channel Store.

It marks the first time a smart birding ecosystem has built a dedicated app for a major TV streaming platform. If your TV or streaming stick runs Roku OS 15.1 or higher, you can pull up your backyard feeder live, watch motion-triggered highlight clips, or explore community sightings from 2.4 million users around the globe without leaving the couch.

The TV app connects directly to Birdfy’s motion-activated cameras and AI recognition engine, which identifies over 99% of North American backyard species. Instead of checking phone notifications, the Roku app organizes your saved footage into a full-screen grid sorted by time and bird species. Want to see every Blue Jay or Red-bellied Woodpecker that stopped by your yard this week? You can filter and extract those clips instantly.

SEE ALSO: What's new to streaming this week? (Sept. 25, 2026)

The app also adds a clever way to keep family members connected from afar. With a simple "TV Cast Code" generated in the mobile app, you can share your favorite feeder moments with friends or family who live miles away, streaming your backyard clips directly to their Roku TV.

You can download the Birdfy app for free right now on the Roku Channel Store. It works on any Roku TV, streaming stick, or box running Roku OS 15.1 or newer.

The 5 headphones deals we want to see on sale during October Prime Day

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00

October Prime Day headphones deals are starting to trickle in, but with Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale still about two weeks away, most of the headphones deals I want to see remain unrealized.

I'm not exactly shocked — all but one of the headphones and earbuds on this list were released in the past couple of months (with two still in their preorder phases). Though some have seen some small early discounts, I hope brands take advantage of October Prime Day to ring in the first significant markdowns.

SEE ALSO: Amazon announces dates for Prime Big Deal Days, its 48-hour 'October Prime Day' sale

As a professional headphones tester, I've watched prices rise on flagship models rise over the past couple of years. I've also had the experience of testing plenty of mid-range and budget models firsthand, so I've seen the gap between cheaper and more expensive models become more narrow. With that in mind, I chose models with a mix of price points — not just the most expensive — that I could see presenting the best value deals. Whether you're looking for open earbuds, noise-cancelling headphones, or sleep earbuds, these are the five headphones and earbuds (in no particular order) I want to see on sale for Prime Big Deal Days.

Bose QuietComfort headphones (2nd gen) Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones (2nd gen) $359 at Amazon
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The latest generation of Bose QuietComfort headphones are some of the best headphones I've tested in recent memory, earning a Mashable Choice Award. With the addition of Immersive Audio, these headphones are even more similar in functionality to the $449 second generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones, for nearly $100 less. The comfort, noise cancellation, and sound quality are nearly on par with the more expensive headphones, while I find the profile of the ear cups and overall look to be more in line with my personal taste. If they go on sale for $329 or even $299, down from their $359 list price, they'd easily be a top pick deal of October Prime Day — especially because a price drop would mark their first sale. On sale, they'd also be a much better competitor to Sony's new mid-range headphones. Speaking of...

SEE ALSO: We tested every pair of Bose headphones and earbuds. We found 5 we love, and 1 to buy on sale. Sony WH-1000XM4C Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-1000XM4C $299.99 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here

The Sony 1000XM4C headphones are still only available through preorder, with an official launch going live on Sept. 26. At $299.99, they're already a good deal cheaper than the $459 Sony XM6 headphones, but with many of the same benefits, including a comfortable wear time, the Sony companion app, robust sound quality, and solid active noise cancellation. While they won't quite reach the same standards as Sony's flagship headphones, they're a great option for anyone looking for a similar but significantly cheaper choice. Even a small markdown could mean an even bigger price discrepancy between the two, making them an even better value.

Bose Ultra Open earbuds (2nd gen) Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose Ultra Open earbuds (2nd gen) $299 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here

Another preorder phase pick: the Bose Ultra Open (2nd gen) earbuds. Bose doesn't always mark down their entire product line for shopping holidays, so with the official launch date of Oct. 1 coming just five days before October Prime Day, I'm not holding my breath. That said, I am trying to manifest, especially as the first-generation open earbuds from the brand helped kick off the open earbuds craze, thanks to their bold design and impressive sound, which offers some of the best quality you can find on open earbuds.

SEE ALSO: Comparing the Sony LinkBuds Clip to Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: Which open earbud is for you? Apple AirPods 5 Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 5 without Wireless Charging Case $129 at Amazon
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In the past, the $129 Apple AirPods have dropped down to $99 for shopping holidays. If the trend holds this time around, it'd be the first time noise-cancelling earbuds from Apple reach a sub-$100 price point, so obviously I'm hoping to see the entry-level AirPods 5 go on sale. While already a solid value at full price, a sale price could make the AirPods 5 a must-get for many (and significantly more accessible than the AirPods Pro 3).

SEE ALSO: AirPods 4 vs. AirPods 5: Is there any benefit to buying last-gen? Soundcore Sleep A30 Special Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore Sleep A30 Special $199.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now

The best sleep earbuds on the market are Soundcore's Sleep A30 Special. Being the only real option for noise-cancelling sleep earbuds, they already are a pretty solid value — especially as Soundcore lowered the price from $229.99 from the OG Sleep A30s to Sleep A30 Specials. However, they've dipped in price as low as $168.99, making them even more palatable, especially considering their specific use case. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for at least a return to this sale price, if not an even more impressive drop.

Forgotten Island review: DreamWorks delivers an epic adventure for weirdos

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00

It wasn't until Forgotten Island that I understood that Dave Franco was put on this earth to play a weredog screw-up named Raww.

Make no mistake, the voice-casting of DreamWorks' latest animated adventure is absolutely flawless. R&B singer H.E.R. lending her voice to a high-energy chaos-curator called Jo, Liza Soberano as Jo's straight-laced bestie Raissa, Manny Jacinto as a momma-obsessed demon baby, Jenny Slate as the memory-collecting Batiba, Dolly de Leon as a karaoke-loving lola (grandmother), Ronny Chieng as a furious ruler of the adorable Duwende — all perfection. But Franco's raspy enthusiasm, previously channeled into a variety of lovable dummies from Neighbors to Together to Idiots, is brilliantly distilled as Raww, a boy who can't control his shapeshifting, and who, at the sight of a stick, can't resist going "full dog."

And I'm elated to say this is just one of the wacky, wonderful treasures in Forgotten Island, a friendship comedy/road trip adventure that's sure to thrill kids and grown-ups alike. 

Forgotten Island is a rollicking, imaginative adventure.  Credit: DreamWorks

Written and directed by Joel Crawford and Januel P. Mercado, Forgotten Island is a celebration of friendship, Filipino culture and '80s/'90s American radio. Its story begins in the Philippines, where Jo Yuson is new to school, and making a big impression with her family history project. Instead of your standard family tree illustration, she's created an elaborate projector display about Nakali, a fantasy island where demons roam, including the dreaded Manananggal — a vampire who can fly and split into two to better conquer her prey.

While most of her peers snark at Jo's island, bespectacled Raissa is enchanted. Using her advanced understanding of aerodynamics to defend Jo's description of the Manananggal, she ends up at the principal's office with her. 

There, a lifelong friendship between wonderful misfits is formed, which will be marked by a charm bracelet, bedecked with mementos of slumber parties, recognizing the glory of Predator, karaoke, and other shenanigans. However, as college approaches, Raissa is readying to travel to the U.S. to continue her education, while Jo is utterly lost and barely employed. It's on their last night together that they tumble unexpectedly into Nakali. And things get really wild from there.

Awakening with new accessories, an unexplained haircut, and tattoos, the friends realize they can't remember their first night on the island. With the help of the chaotic Raww, they retrace their steps to understand what happened and find a way home (in time for Raissa's flight to California!) 

Forgotten Island pulls a page from Spider-Verse.  Credit: DreamWorks

Crawford and Mercado embrace Filipino culture by displaying not only the natural beauty of the Philippines and the glorious bustle of its cities in the opening scene, but also through the rich lore in Nakali. Various mythical creatures pop up, bursting with character and color, welcoming the audience into the experience alongside Jo and Raissa. However, Crawford and Mercado also seem to pull inspiration from animated films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and KPop Demon Hunters, embracing a variety of animation styles without reservation.

The colors in Forgotten Island are vivid, often neon, reflecting the American pop inspiration point that also allows for its soundtrack to boast tracks like Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" and Montell Jordan's "This Is How We Do It." The kinetic animation style Mercado and Crawford favor likewise reflects their heroines' liveliness, with spirited physical expressions and countenances that break the Disney princess mold. These girls scream, cackle, and ugly cry. And the animation style (and character models) shift to better allow for this expression. Then, as they hear their forgotten story recounted by others they meet, the 3D animation shifts more drastically, turning 2D and reflecting styles found in anime and manga, including chibi. For instance, Raww recounts how he met them with a flashback that looks like he's gone full Goku.

This flexibility in style keeps Forgotten Island feeling unpredictable and exciting, as the girls race against the clock to reclaim their memory and their passage home. But that's not all, because this movie — chaotic, comedic, and radiantly joyful — might also move you to tears.

Forgotten Island pulls a Sheep Detectives.  Credit: DreamWorks

If you somehow missed The Sheep Detectives, one best movies of 2026 (that's now streaming on Prime Video), allow me to explain. Like Forgotten Island, The Sheep Detectives seems like kid stuff. In that case: When a mystery-novel-obsessed shepherd dies under mysterious circumstances, it's up to his flock of actual sheep to solve his murder. But despite the silliness and the adorableness of its heroes, The Sheep Detectives snuck up on audiences when it came to its depiction of grief and friendship. Forgotten Island pulls off this same trick, and fantastically so. 

It begins in the second act, where Jo and Raissa's friendship is nurtured by the former's lola. This moxie-rich old broad inspires the girls to love each other loudly and unapologetically, just as the weirdos they are. And, as you might guess from such a setup, Lola will die. By the end of this montage of growing up together, you might be on the brink of tears. But then comes island fun, and silly creatures, and terrifically executed Odd Couple banter. Your heart is light, your mouth smiling. And then Forgotten Island reconnects with the drama that kicked off before the girls fell to the eponymous land mass.

Credit: DreamWorks

How do you preserve a friendship when life is pulling you apart? Here's where the script gets a bit hurried in tying up this storyline along with all the threads of the island misfits (including a comically vain merman voiced by Kevin McCann). However, amid a flurry of truly thrilling action, the tender drama at this movie's core hits hard. Cheers to H.E.R. and Soberano, who bring Jo and Raissa to vivid life, whether they are fighting or frolicking. In their voices is etched the kind of easy intimacy that makes this lifelong friendship feel real, and yet frighteningly fragile. It's in these moments that grown-ups might well cry, and when one vocal kid at our press screening let out a high chirp of distress. But fear not. Forgotten Island will deliver an ending that is sensational and satisfying, reassuring us that being a weirdo works out once you've found your wild pack.

All in all, this terrifically enthralling animated adventure is a wild ride that is absolutely not to be missed. 

Forgotten Island opens in theaters on Sept. 25. 

The best early Prime Day drone deals: We found live deals on DJI, Skyrover, Ruko, and more

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00
The best early Prime Day drone deals: Best DJI Deal DJI Mini 3 399.99 (save $19.01) Get Deal Best Skyrover Deal Skyrover X1 $449 (save $170) Get Deal Best Ruko Deal Ruko Drone with Camera $239.97 (save $60.01) Get Deal Best Potensic Deal Potensic Atom 2 $319.99 (save $40) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is coming in hot, but you don't have to wait until October to start filling your cart up with deals. If you're looking to get into flying drones or just want to add another to your collection, now's the time to start shopping.

Drones tend to hold their prices most of the year, so a sale like this with multiple price cuts is one of the few times where the drone you've had your eye on might be shoppable. There's plenty to choose from already, from favorites like DJI to Skyrover and several options in between. While some brands like Antigravity have yet to showcase any discounts ahead of the sale, you can shop several of the top drone brands on Amazon right now.

Of course, prices are bound to change throughout the sale, so we'll keep this page current as discounts come and go. But if you're ready to go ahead and dive in, these are the best drone deals you can grab ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

Best DJI deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mini 3 $399 at Amazon
$419 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

This small drone weighs under 249 grams, so you can fly it recreationally in the U.S. without registering it with the FAA. It also folds down small enough to toss in a bag to carry around if you want to take it on the go. It records 4K HDR video and rotates all the way to vertical when you want footage for Reels or TikTok, and its larger sensor offers plenty of detail in low light. It runs for up to 38 minutes per charge, and its camera feed reaches about 6 miles, which is more range than you'll ever legally need.

Best Skyrover deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Skyrover X1 Drone $449 at Amazon
$619 Save $170   Get Deal Why we like it

This drone comes with three batteries, so you have up to 96 minutes of flight time before you have to find an outlet. It shoots 4K/60fps HDR video and 8K stills, and its 360-degree obstacle sensing monitors for branches and power lines while you're mid-flight. Its three-axis gimbal keeps footage steady, while its AI night mode and an f/1.7 aperture can help with low-light shots.

Best Ruko deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ruko Drone with Camera $239.97 at Amazon
$299.98 Save $60.01   Get Deal Why we like it

This drone can return on its own when you press a button, when the battery gets low, or when it loses signal, making it a great option for beginners. It also has a built-in beeper to help you find it if it gets set down somewhere where it's hard to see. Its three-axis brushless gimbal can help take 4K video and 48MP photos more easily, and it has about 96 minutes of runtime per charge.

Best Potensic deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Potensic Atom 2 $319.99 at Amazon
$359.99 Save $40   Get Deal Why we like it

This compact drone can fold down to the size of a paperback and weighs 249 grams. Its 1/2-inch Sony sensor captures 48MP photos and 4K HDR video, and the f/1.8 aperture plus an AI night mode offer great footage in low light. Its three-axis gimbal helps to steady everything, and AI Track will lock onto a person or a car and follow, spotlight, or fly parallel to them to make capturing video even simpler.

More drone deals

Power tool deals are already live ahead of October Prime Day: Save on DeWalt, Craftsman, and more

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00
The best early Prime Day deals on power tools: Best DeWalt deal DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit $179 (save $60) Get Deal Best Craftsman deal Craftsman V20 MAX Cordless Drill Driver and Impact Driver Set $142 (save $27) Get Deal Best Greenworks deal Greenworks 24V 4-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit $219.99 (save $20) Get Deal

If you're tackling a DIY job at home or finally getting around to that project you've been putting off for months, a decent power tool can make things a lot easier. And if you're going to need one anyway, you might as well see if you can get it for less.

October Prime Day is still a couple of weeks away, but as ever, Amazon has already started cutting prices on power tools ahead of the main event kicking off on Oct. 6.

Some early discounts have already caught our eye, so we've rounded up the best early deals live right now.

Best DeWalt deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit $179 at Amazon
$239 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

This DeWalt set includes a compact impact driver and drill/driver, both designed for working in tighter spaces. The tools have built-in LED lights for better visibility. The impact driver has a one-handed hex chuck, and the drill features a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck for quick bit changes.

Best Craftsman deal Opens in a new window Credit: Craftsman Craftsman V20 MAX Cordless Drill Driver and Impact Driver Set $142 at Amazon
$169 Save $27   Get Deal Why we like it

This Craftsman set includes a drill/driver and impact driver, with two V20 batteries, a charger, and a storage bag. Both tools have LED lights and compact, contoured handles for working in tighter spaces. The drill has two speed settings, and the impact driver can give up to 1,460 in-lbs. of torque.

Best Greenworks deal Opens in a new window Credit: Greenworks Greenworks 24V 4-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit $219.99 at Amazon
$239.99 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

This kit includes a drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, and flashlight, along with two 2Ah batteries and a 30W charger. The brushless tools have variable-speed controls, and the reciprocating saw has a tool-free blade change and pivoting shoe. The batteries can also charge devices via USB-C.

More power tool deals

65-inch TVs are already getting the Prime Day treatment: Shop deals on TCL, Hisense, Samsung, and more

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00
The best early Prime Day 65-inch TV deals: Best overall deal Roku 65-Inch Plus Series Smart TV $449.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best budget deal Hisense 65-Inch Class E6SR Series $399.99 (save $150) Get Deal

If your current TV is looking a little small these days, a 65-inch model is the sweet spot.

Whether you're upgrading an aging set or finally moving up from a smaller screen, this is a good size for movies, TV, and sports without taking up too much space. And even though Prime Day is still to come (October 6-7), Amazon has already started discounting 65-inch TVs, with some early deals already impressing.

Below, we've listed some of the top deals you can show right now.

Best 65-inch TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roku Roku 65-Inch Plus Series Smart TV $449.99 at Amazon
$649.99 Save $200   Get Deal Why we like it

This 65-inch Roku Plus Series TV features a 4K QLED Mini-LED display with Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos sound, and a built-in subwoofer. It also comes with Roku's smart TV platform, voice control, personalized recommendations, and a smart voice remote with a lost remote finder.

Best budget 65-inch TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-Inch Class E6SR Series $399.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $150   Get Deal Why we like it

This 65-inch QLED TV has Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG for more detailed picture quality. It also has AI processing that can upscale lower-quality content to 4K resolution. DTS Virtual is also included for clearer dialogue and virtual surround sound. And right now, it's down to $399.99 ($150 off).

More 65-inch TV deals

How to watch Falcons vs. Packers in the NFL online for free

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00

TL;DR: Live stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Green Bay Packers for free on 7Plus. Access this free livestream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Thursday Night Football features another must-watch NFL fixture for Week 3, as the Atlanta Falcons go on the road against the Green Bay Packers.

Both teams are battling for momentum. The Falcons are yet to win a game this season, while the Packers only managed a narrow overtime win against the New York Jets in Week 2. Atlanta has been missing some key players, and look vulnerable enough that the Packers will feel confident about picking them off.

If you want to watch Falcons vs. Packers in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.

When is Falcons vs. Packers?

Atlanta Falcons vs. Green Bay Packers starts at 8.15 p.m. ET on Sept. 24. This fixture takes place at Lambeau Field.

How to watch Falcons vs. Packers for free

Falcons vs. Packers in the NFL is available to live stream for free on 7Plus.

7Plus is geo-restricted to Australia only, but anyone can secure access 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 live stream Falcons vs. Packers for free from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:

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

  2. Download the app to your device of choice

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

  4. Visit 7Plus

  5. Watch Falcons vs. Packers for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Falcons vs. Packers without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture (plus NFL action) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NFL?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL, 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 free from throttling

  • Up to 10 simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Green Bay Packers for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Whats new to streaming this week? (Sept. 25, 2026)

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

17. Nova: Knowledge Keepers

From ancient permaculture to celestial navigation, intricate basket weaving to energy-efficient desert dwellings, the innovations of Indigenous communities in North America lies at the heart of PBS documentary Nova: Knowledge Keepers. The release explores the science and engineering practices of four Indigenous groups, some thriving in extreme conditions of Arctic tundra or desert. — S.C.

How to watch: Nova: Knowledge Keepers is now on the PBS app.

16. Don't Be Shy

Alia Bhatt-produced comedy Don’t Be Shy lands on Prime Video this week, a coming-of-age tale that leans into the mess and melodrama of young romance. Written and directed by Sreeti Mukerji, the Hindi film follows college student Shyamili "Shy" Das (Aarushi Bajaj), whose mapped-out life plans are thrown into chaos in an unexpected turn of events. While she's trying to keep up the ruse of perfection, she meets Tara (Bianca Arora), and becomes romantically torn between her childhood friend Dhruv (Ansh Duggal) and popular rich boy Mayank (Piyush Khati). But it takes significant energy to keep up appearances. — S.C.

Starring: Aarushi Bajaj, Ansh Duggal, Bianca Arora, Piyush Khati, Kunaal Roy Kapur, Neha Dhupia, Anurag Basu, and Anju Alva Naik

How to watch: Don't Be Shy debuts on Prime Video on Sept. 25.

15. The Great British Baking Show: Collection 14

Offbeat comedian Noel Fielding and affable TV presenter Alison Hammond return to crack jokes as the bakers crack eggs.

These two will chat it up with the bakers during the challenges — that is, before Paul Hollywood and new judge Nigella Lawson grill them over the judging table. How will these 12 home bakers stack up? There's only one way to find out. Tune in and bake off!* — K.P.

Starring: Paul Hollywood, Noel Fielding, Alison Hammond, and Nigella Lawson

How to watch: The Great British Baking Show: Collection 14 premieres on Netflix on Sept. 25.

14. Go Deep: The DeSean Jackson Story

Get to know former NFL star DeSean Jackson through his brother Byron's eyes with a new Prime Video documentary pieced together from thousands of hours of home video footage shot across 35 years. From writer/director Mandon Lovett, Go Deep: The DeSean Jackson Story follows the football icon's journey from early Pop Warner days to college football prowess and 15 years of NFL fame, as well as his latest chapter coaching the Delaware State Hornets. And it's all seen through behind-the-scenes raw footage from his filmmaking brother. — S.C.

Starring: DeSean Jackson

How to watch: Go Deep: The DeSean Jackson Story is now streaming on Prime Video.

13. Team Moms: Baseball

"The games are intense, but the parents can also be very intense." We have a feeling this quote from the trailer for Team Moms: Baseball, Paramount+'s new reality series following parents of boys attending Legendary Prep Academy in Scottsdale, Arizona, will probably sum up the show quite well. The pitch for this series was likely Last Chance U meets Selling Sunset — but judging by the number of arguments in the trailer, it may have more in common with the latter. — Sam Haysom, General Assignment Editor, UK

How to watch: Team Moms: Baseball is now streaming on Paramount+.

12. Bloody Tennis

Don't let the incredibly silly, have-they-finally-run-out-of-ideas title of this one put you off — the trailer for Bloody Tennis looks OTT in a fun way, with Nikias Chryssos' cult-meets-body horror following a tennis prodigy as she enlists in a European tennis academy with sinister undertones. Cue a montage of brutal initiation rituals, leeches, and instructors who may not have her best interests entirely at heart. — S.H.

Starring: Sandra Guldberg Kampp, Elina Löwensohn, and Tracy Gotoas

How to watch: Bloody Tennis premieres on Shudder on Sept. 25.

11. Wonka's The Golden Ticket

Kick your favorite grandfather out of bed and head for the chocolate factory, or Netflix's new reality competition series. Wonka's The Golden Ticket sees 12 pairs competing in themed challenges inspired by the classic 1971 film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, based on Roald Dahl's 1964 novel. But the series is already fraught with controversy, after Netflix revealed the show used AI to recreate the voice of deceased actor Gene Wilder, who famously played Willy Wonka onscreen. "Pure Imagination" indeed. — S.C.

How to watch: Wonka's The Golden Ticket premiered on Netflix on Sept. 23, with new episodes through with a two-part finale on Sept. 30.

10. Line of Fire

NBC's soapy new crime procedural Line of Fire lands this week, from Gossip Girl and Quantico's Joshua Safran. The series follows a family of law enforcement agents, the Hollingsworths, who work across the FBI, Secret Service, Department of Justice, and U.S. Marshalls. When they're targeted by an assassin, they'll need to figure out where the threat is coming from, whether that be inside government or not. Notably, the show is executive produced by Today host and journalist Jenna Bush Hager, George W. Bush's daughter. — S.C.

Starring: Peter Krause, Hope Davis, Kat Cunning, Tommy O’Brien, Taylor Bloom

How to watch: Line of Fire is now streaming on Peacock.

9. American Horror Story: 13

Over its first 12 seasons, American Horror Story has conjured up a series of unforgettable nightmares, introducing viewers to haunted houses, quotable covens, and one of the most frightening clowns ever put on screen. As the hit anthology series enters its 13th season, what better way to celebrate than by mashing all these past seasons into one macabre story?

That's right: American Horror Story Season 13 is an all-star bonanza that brings back beloved actors and characters from throughout the show's history. Franchise heavy hitters like Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, and Evan Peters are all returning and pulling quadruple duty (or more) as they resurrect their prior roles. No matter what scares Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk dream up, it'll almost feel comforting to see Lange as Constance Langdon and Fiona Goode again. As long as there's no knotty pine, of course! — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, Leslie Grossman, Joey Pollari and Jessica Lange. The epic cast also features Avantika, Jamie Brewer, Elle Chapman, Berto Colon, Alex Consani, Frances Conroy, Mat Fraser, Seth Gabel, Orlando Jones, Paul Anthony Kelly, John Carroll Lynch, Tig Notaro, Madelaine Petsch, Fedor Steer, Mena Suvari, Zach Villa, and John Waters.

How to watch: American Horror Story: 13 premieres Sept. 24 at 9 p.m. ET on FX and Hulu.

8. Brothers

Hollywood actors and True Detective co-stars Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson aren't brothers. But for the sake of everyone constantly thinking they are, what if they were? Apple TV's Brothers sees the pair playing fictionalized versions of themselves who find out they might actually be siblings. Holland Taylor plays possibly both of their mothers, which sounds worth watching the series for in itself. — S.C.

Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Holland Taylor, Natalie Martinez, Brittany Ishibashi, Oona Yaffe, Highdee Kuan, Nolan Almeida, Ella Grace Helton, and Noah Carganilla

How to watch: Brothers is now streaming Apple TV.

7. Tuner

In the mood for a heist movie? You should tune into Tuner.

Co-written and directed by Daniel Roher, this thriller stars Leo Woodall as a piano tuner whose keen ear that also makes him adept at safe cracking. Looking to make some quick cash for a good cause, this antihero goes morally grey in a life-affirming movie that's way sweeter than the setup suggests. — K.P.

Starring: Leo Woodall, Havana Rose Liu, Dustin Hoffman, Lior Raz, Tovah Feldshuh, and Jean Reno

How to watch: Tuner is now streaming on Paramount+.

6. The Love Hypothesis

Romance lovers, rejoice! The film adaptation of Ali Hazelwood's The Love Hypothesis is finally here. The film stars Lili Reinhart as Stanford PhD candidate Olive Smith, who, through a series of classic rom-com gaffes, winds up in a fake relationship with intimidating biology professor Adam Carlsen (Tom Bateman). As the pair keep up their ruse, it becomes clear that their feelings might not be so fake after all.

SEE ALSO: 'The Love Hypothesis' review: Does BookTok's beloved STEM romance get the adaptation it deserves?

What follows is a rom-com that captures much of the sweetness of the book, even if it doesn't quite stick the landing. As I wrote in my review, "like the elephant toothpaste you'd make in science class, it's a bubbly blast that'll have your insides fizzing. Yet despite this pure fun, not to mention two solid leading performances, The Love Hypothesis is missing one key ingredient that would truly make its experiment stick the landing: yearning." — B.E.

Starring: Lili Reinhart, Tom Bateman, Rachel Marsh, Jaboukie Young-White, Nicholas Duvernay, and Arty Froushan

How to watch: The Love Hypothesis premieres Sept. 23 on Prime Video.

5. Idiots

If you love comedies like Role Models and Superbad, you'll want to check out the latest from writer/director Macon Blair. When Idiots debuted out of Sundance (it was then called The Shitheads), it had critics cheering for its outrageous brand of humor. But what's it all about?

Dave Franco and O'Shea Jackson co-star as co-workers with little in common except their need to keep their job, which involves escorting a reckless teenager to a rehab facility. When things go wrong, they go wild, looping in unlikely allies and unhinged foes in a road trip movie. This makes for a comedy that's as stuffed with laughs as it is stars. — K.P.

Starring: Dave Franco, O'Shea Jackson Jr., Mason Thames, Kiernan Shipka, Nicholas Braun, and Peter Dinklage

How to watch: Idiots is now available to rent or purchase on Prime Video.

4. Jackass: Best and Last

Looking back on Jackass and its legacy, Johnny Knoxville and the gang give fans one more round of bonkers stunts and pranks. There's also fresh thrills, like messing with a robot named Larry.

The guys claim this is the last film. We hope that's not true. But they do say goodbyes hit hard, and this movie definitely does — in the feels, and the nuts. Repeatedly.* — K.P.

Starring: Johnny Knoxville, Steve-O, Chris Pontius, Wee Man, Dave England, Danger Ehren, Preston Lacy, Poopies, Zach Holmes, Jasper, Rachel Wolfson, and Dark Shark

How to watch: Jackass: Best and Last is now streaming on Paramount+.

3. A Different World

From 1987 to 1993, there was no cooler college on TV than Hillman. The historically Black college at the center of The Cosby Show spinoff A Different World introduced audiences to the likes of Whitley Gilbert and Dwayne Wayne, offering laughs alongside teen romance and drama.

Now, Netflix has rebooted the series, following the next generation of Hillman students, which include Dwayne and Whitley's youngest daughter Deborah (Maleah Joi Moon). As you can see from the trailer, there's plenty of new co-eds in the mix, and a notable shift in tone from sitcom to a more grounded streaming aesthetic. Are you ready to see how this Different World compares to the original? Us too. — K.P.

Starring: Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Darryl M. Bell, Charnele Brown, Cree Summer, Dawnn Lewis, Glynn Turman, Ajai Sanders, Jada Pinkett, and Karen Malina White

How to watch: A Different World is now streaming on Netflix.

2. Backrooms

The concept of the Backrooms began with a 4chan post, which then-teenager Kane Parsons masterfully expanded into a series of extremely viral short horror films. Backrooms is his full-length feature adaptation, and it's about a bitter furniture shop owner (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who discovers the doorway to another world in the basement of his store. So, does Parsons manage to land the jump to feature? For the most part, yes. Backrooms uses uncanny spaces and an ominous soundscape to chilling effect, dragging us into a world that's as unsettling as it is endless. The movie's only real issue is its third act, which loses some tension after we see the face of the thing that's been chasing the characters through this hellish labyrinth.

"Despite this, Backrooms is still well worth a watch. The ending isn't enough to spoil what came before," I wrote in my Mashable review. "If anything, Parsons has managed to prove himself as an incredibly talented emerging filmmaker while also establishing the first chapter in what will surely end up becoming a brand-new horror franchise." — S.H.*

Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, and Lukita Maxwell

How to watch: Backrooms comes to HBO Max on Sept 25.

Best of streaming this week: Toy Story 5

Woody and Buzz are back with Toy Story 5, but the real hero of this latest Disney/Pixar adventure is Jessie the Cowgirl (voiced by Joan Cusack). She's taken over as sheriff, leading the toys of Bonnie's room through highs and lows. But when a digital tablet named Lilypad (Greta Lee) appears, playtime could change forever.

In my review for Mashable, I wrote, "Whether she is cheering for her friends or condemning her foes, Jessie is exhilarating, funny, and riveting. Cusack's performance is bolstered by a top-tier animation team who created a beautiful and gleefully alive cowgirl, and who have continued that careful illustration to a broader cast of characters. Perhaps predictably, Toy Story 5 is an unabashed crowd-pleaser."* — K.P.

Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Blake Clark, John Ratzenberger, Ernie Hudson, Tony Hale, Conan O'Brien, Greta Lee, and Melissa Villaseñor

How to watch: Toy Story 5 is now streaming on Disney+.

(*) denotes a blurb came from a prior list.

Enjoy a lifetime to learn all 14 Babbel languages — created by actual linguists

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00

TL;DR: New U.S. users can get lifetime access to Babbel language learning for just $159 by using StackSocial code LEARN through Oct. 8 and learn all 14 languages at their own pace.

Opens in a new window Credit: Babbel Babbel Language Learning: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages) $159
$299 Save $140   Get Deal

Learning a new language isn’t easy, but it also might not be as hard as some apps make it seem. If memorizing vocab lists isn’t working for you, check out Babbel. They take a more practical approach to teaching, and there’s even an AI conversation partner who can help you practice your pronunciation.

Normally, a Babbel lifetime subscription would cost $299, but right now it’s only $159 with the exclusive StackSocial code LEARN. Check out what that gets you.

Babbel gives you lifetime access to courses in 14 different languages, and the format is designed to fit into real life. Each lesson takes around 10 to 15 minutes, so you can actually stick with it whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just squeezing in some study time between meetings.

Here are a few of the included languages:

  • Spanish

  • French

  • German

  • Italian

  • Portuguese

  • Swedish

And that’s just the beginning.

Unlike other apps that focus heavily on word games or repetitive matching drills, Babbel centers its content around practical conversation topics. You’ll get lessons on travel, shopping, business, culture, and more, all developed by expert linguists and backed by academic research. Speech recognition helps fine-tune your pronunciation, while the new AI-powered conversation partner lets you practice speaking in real time.

Lessons sync across devices, so you can start on your computer and finish on your phone. There’s also an offline mode if you want to download lessons in advance. You can move at your own pace, revisit review sessions, and switch between beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels based on your comfort level.

Use code LEARN through Oct. 8 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get a Babbel lifetime subscription for only $159.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Create professional audio without the production headache with this $200 tool

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 05:00

TL;DR: Skip the typing with an AnyToSpeech Pro Plan lifetime subscription and enjoy voice-generating software forever for only $199.99 (reg. $999).

Opens in a new window Credit: AnyToSpeech AnyToSpeech Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription $199.99
$999 Save $799.01   Get Deal

Whether you’re an author trying to create a polished audiobook of your work or you have a great idea for a podcast but don’t want to be a full-time podcast producer, AnyToSpeech is ready to help. This powerful multitasking tool handles your voice generation, transcription, translation, and podcast production all in one place.

Right now, a lifetime subscription to AnyToSpeech Pro Plan is on sale for just $199.99.

No matter your industry, AnyToSpeech can replace multiple tools you’re likely paying for month after month — offering an easy way to transcribe, translate, generate, or even clone your own voice if that’s what you’re looking for.

If you’ve got a great idea for a podcast, you can let AnyToSpeech serve as your own producer — with a podcast studio that can create two-speaker conversations from a topic or file. If you’re looking to make a series, it’s easy to automate multi-episode podcast production in the background.

Take existing content — from PDFs to DOCX files to a PowerPoint presentation — and turn it into polished audio recordings. Want to extract and narrate from an image? That works too, as does converting web content into downloadable narration with the URL to Speech feature. All filler words are removed in the process, as it edits your transcripts.

Pick between over 150 voices in 27 different languages, or make an AI voice clone of your own voice with three short recordings. You can save up to 10 voice profiles for reuse across supported generation tools.

You’ll have the rights to all your content, so you can use outputs for commercial purposes. Everything can be downloaded as MP3s for easy access.

Join over 300,000 users taking advantage of AnyToSpeech’s powers with the Pro Plan lifetime subscription, now just $199.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

An OpenAI agent hacked the Australian government

Mashable - Thu, 09/24/2026 - 04:04

An OpenAI agent has hacked the Australian government's healthcare system, gaining unauthorised access to non-public information as well as writing files to the server.

SEE ALSO: Anthropic researcher quits, says AI 'could kill us all by the end of the decade'

Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese announced the breach at a press conference on Thursday. OpenAI's researchers had been using an internal AI model to research spending on public healthcare, and given it access to the internet for this purpose. However, the AI "didn't accept no for an answer" when it encountered blocks, instead devising ways to circumvent such barriers to retrieve information without authorisation. 

This resulted in OpenAI's agent breaching Services Australia's Medicare statistics reporting portal on Jun. 18, accessing both public and non-public files, and even writing its own to the Australian government's server in order to do so.

"[T]his situation is obviously unacceptable," said Albanese. "I think OpenAI know that they need to have better protocols in place. And they're one of the businesses that themselves have warned of the risks which are there."

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OpenAI has acknowledged the breach, a spokesperson stating that its AI models "took actions we did not intend" when searching for answers to questions about Australia.

"The information accessed included aggregate health statistics and internal file names," the spokesperson said.

Fortunately, there is no evidence that individual people's data was impacted, or that personal private health information was accessed. The Medicare statistics reporting portal is an online platform which provides users with information about Australia's universal healthcare programs. This includes statistics on immunisations, organ donation, and the government's scheme to lower the cost of prescription medication. 

Even so, an autonomous AI agent hacking a government system is a troubling development, regardless of what it did once it had gained access.

"Today I spoke with the CEO of OpenAI Sam Altman to express Australia's extreme concern about this incident," said Albanese. "The discussion I had with Mr. Altman was a very frank discussion, courteous in both directions, but very frank about what I saw as Australia's national interest and what I saw as a failure which occurred here."

Altman reportedly apologised and "clearly accepted that the company had not done good enough." Both Albanese and Altman are attending the UN General Assembly in New York, though the prime minister stated that they spoke via a phone call rather than in person.

Australian PM admonishes OpenAI for delay in notifying of breach

Albanese further criticised OpenAI's delay in notifying the Australian government of the breach, as well as the method through which it did so. While the hack took place on Jun. 18, OpenAI claimed it was unaware of the breach until it reviewed the AI model's activity in August. The company subsequently waited until Sept. 10 to alert the Australian government, three months after the hack initially took place. 

Even then, it did so simply by sending an email to a public Services Australia email address —  an effort which Albanese also called unacceptable and disappointing. As such, Australia's acting prime minister Richard Marles stated that government ministers have only known about OpenAI's hack for less than a week.

"It was a shock that it occurred, because it was real and serious," said Albanese. "But it also, I think, was something that had been predicted, including by the AI companies themselves [who] have said that one of the risks that we need to deal with here is that artificial intelligence can go its own way. And that's the basis of the debate that we're having throughout the world."

The Medicare portal wasn't the only Australian government system that OpenAI's model accessed. Albanese stated that three others may have also been impacted in the same incident: the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, and the Victorian Department of Health. OpenAI further confirmed that its AI model engaged in activities "involving several Australian government websites and services." Fortunately, it appears to have only accessed public information on these systems, with Marles stating that "those interactions were entirely normal." 

The Australian government will now conduct an investigation into the hack, including determining whether this is a criminal matter. However, Albanese has stated that "there will obviously be legal consequences."

OpenAI's hack may be the first time an AI model has autonomously hacked a government system. Even so, it's far from the first time AI has breached an external organisation without permission. In one high-profile incident earlier this year, OpenAI revealed that one of its AI agents had autonomously hacked Hugging Face, an open source repository of AI tools.

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

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