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'Alien: Romulus' review: Fan Service Summer continues

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 15:00

A confession: Long before Alien: Romulus, I've not been much for Fede Álvarez's brand of horror.

His reboot of Evil Dead was so grisly that I saw a colleague who deeply loves a good scary movie flee the theater in revulsion. His Texas Chainsaw Massacre was likewise dripping with buckets of blood and viscera, as was his 2016 original thriller Don't Breathe. It's not the gore alone that put me off, but more how it heightened a bleakness so intense it might well steal your breath. It seems he revels in seeing his heroes suffer, providing little hope to his audience they'll find a way out of it. That knocks the fun out of horror for me.

This suffocating grimness soured me on Álvarez's work. Frankly, I approached his spin on the Alien franchise with dread, even though I've relished this freaky franchise's blend of body horror and alien terror for decades. But I was wrong to doubt him. To his credit — and to producer Ridley Scott's as well — Álvarez's signature stomach-churning violence and deeply dark attitude are perfectly suited to Alien: Romulus. Moreover, his style suits the franchise's haunting message, in which the real villain is not the "perfect organism" that runs amok on remote spacecrafts but the inhuman corporation that exploits human suffering for profits. It's a capitalism critique that remains as relevant now as it was in 1979, when Scott first took us aboard the Nostromo. Here, Álvarez finds a fitting vessel for his darkest side. 

There's no sign of Ripley in this curious prequel, which is set between Alien and its 1986 sequel Aliens. However, fans of the franchise will relish the return of such harrowing space critters as the facehugger, the chestburster, the queen Xenomorph, and more. Alongside these iconic extraterrestrials is a crackling ensemble cast, comprised of Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Aileen Wu, and Spike Fearn. But amid fresh faces, new twists, and a standout star, this entry flounders in a desperate frenzy of climactic fan service.

Alien: Romulus plays like Aliens meets Don't Breathe.  Tyler and Rain bond over firepower. Credit: 20th Century Studios

Álvarez and co-writing/producing partner Rodo Sayagues love a story about a group of young friends, brash and dangerously naive, who go on an ill-considered quest, be it vacationing in a remote cabin in a creepy forest, creating influencer content in a notorious ghost town, or breaking into a reclusive war vet's house with plans to burgle him and get out alive. Alien: Romulus aligns most closely to the last of these, as like Don't Breathe, its setup involves a sketchy heist. 

Cailee Spaeny (Civil War, Priscilla) stars as Rain, an indentured worker on a Weyland-Yutani space colony, where disease and industrial accidents have made her and her synthetic "brother" Andy (David Jonsson of Industry and Rye Lane) orphans. So when her situationship-mate Tyler (Archie Renaux) proposes a heist that could get them to a nice space colony — one where sunshine actually exists — she's eager to sign on, whatever the cost. 

The plan is for Tyler, his pregnant sister Kay (Isabela Merced), his aggro cousin Bjorn (Spike Fearn), and Bjorn's chill girlfriend Navarro (Aileen Wu) to burgle a derelict space station floating above their colony, snatching the equipment they need to fly far, far away. But this is an Alien movie, so their plans are complicated when they come across some otherwordly pests.

Álvarez and Sayagues' soft spot for impulsive (and criminal) youth plays well in the sandbox Ridley built. Like Ripley's crew, Rain's is a motley bunch; they know how to operate this highly specialized space tech, but they're essentially blue-collar folk with simple ambitions and all-too-human impulses. They are in no way prepared for the horrors that lurk in deep space. The first act of Alien: Romulus revels in character work, like the best of the Alien movies, embedding us with people so their pain becomes our own.

For Spaeny, this means much frowning and some tough choices about loyalty and risk. For the others, franchise-familiar friction sparks over Andy's involvement, as Weyland-Yutani's artificial persons have a reputation for betraying their human colleagues when it comes to benefitting the company. But Andy isn't like the snarling Ash (Ian Holm), the stoic Bishop (Lance Henriksen), the wide-eyed Annalee Call (Winona Ryder), or even the scintillatingly strange David (Michael Fassbender). And that's exciting.

David Jonsson steals this movie.  David Jonsson is phenomenal as Andy. Credit: 20th Century Studios

Spaeny is put in the Ridley-like role of the hardened heroine who's destined to fight back against a towering and terrifying queen. But her character is perhaps too much an echo of Ripley, with the rough edges of spurting rage smoothed out. Andy, however, is an interesting new spin on AI in the Alien series. Programmed by her dad, Andy's directive is to "do what's best for Rain," and that includes delivering lovably lame dad jokes. For instance: Did you hear about the claustrophobic astronaut? He needs space. (Buh-duh-dum!)

These jokes might be a bit cringe, but they're undeniably endearing. Where the rest of the cast shoulders the angst and terror demanded of this high-tension franchise, Andy is a breath of fresh air because he can experience neither. This brings some warmth into Álvarez's movie, which creates a sharper contrast: a ray of hope amid the darkness. Andy is essentially the well-meaning little brother, exerting a guilelessness that is so rare in this franchise that it shines bright like a diamond. Eventually, plot twists will complicate matters, giving Andy a glitch in his programming and Jonsson room to show his range. Without giving away spoilers, suffice to say he is absolutely riveting across this journey. 

Props to the ensemble as a whole, which rattles with raw emotion, be it wrath, hope, or horror. But by rights, Alien: Resurrection should elevate Jonsson to movie star status. 

Alien: Romulus is revoltingly frightening and savagely entertaining. Isabela Merced creeps around as Kay. Credit: 20th Century Studios

Literally, this movie had me dry-heaving.

It's not just that Álvarez leans hard into H.R. Giger's visual designs, which are a nauseating mix of genitals, generous glop, and hard, glossy exoskeletons. Though make no mistake, this movie's monsters are so sensationally rendered you can practically smell their musk. But what takes the scares here to the next level is a sound design that is loud, enveloping, and absolutely brutal — sometimes to the point of losing dialogue to it.

Props to composer Benjamin Wallfisch for a score that is nostalgic, tapping into past Alien movies with love and care, while creating an orchestral soundscape that raises goosebumps with its trills and stings. Yet the sound team, led by Lee Gilmore, owes me a good night's sleep after the hellish sounds they made echo through my skull. You can get a taste of it in the teaser. The roar of jet engines rattled me in my seat, making me physically feel like a part of this mission. The screech of relentless aliens left my spine tingling. The auditory memory of the fleshy skittering of too many legs down a hallway still makes me gag. The hiss of acid blood cutting through metal and flesh still rings in my ears. You don't just watch Alien: Romulus; you are absorbed into it. Brace yourselves.

Combining this immersive soundscape with the mindful use of Xenomorph monsters makes Alien: Romulus sensationally scary and well worth the price of admission. Unfortunately, the filmmakers fumble this marvelous build-up with a climax that is a sloppy burst of fan service.

Alien: Romulus bungles its finale with too many callbacks.  Been here, seen that. Credit: 20th Century Studios

If you thought Deadpool & Wolverine went hard on fan service, well, you're right. Alien: Romulus doesn't hit those degrees of pandering, but it does fall prey to the seemingly studio-mandated checklist for sequels.

The first half of this prequel elegantly blends the signatures of Álvarez's horror films with the well-established lore of the Alien movies, lacing in Weyland-Yutani's impact, familiar terms like "artificial person," and of course the Xenomorphs. It's all world-building; it works to establish Romulus while charting its own course. But as Alien: Romulus barrels to a conclusion, it begins to feel less like a fresh and thoughtful new adventure in this space (where no one can hear you scream), and more like a clumsy clip show of franchise highlights.

There'll be some familiar lines, and while some are subtle, one feels so forced that it sparked guffaws from the audience. Memorable shots are replicated, like the human heroine coming face-to-mouth(s) with the vicious alien queen. Plot points from previous films are reenacted with little to no innovation, so the tension of Romulus' final act becomes derailed by predictability. The character logic and action-scene geography suffers under the need to be like the other Alien movies, for better or worse. To that end, what will likely be most polarizing among fans of these films is the resurrection of a particular character who, while crucial to the plot, feels more like a cheat code than considerately included. 

As Rain races to her final moments on-screen, audience may get a bit beleaguered by her, because she's no longer forging her own path. She's doggedly following Ripley's. We've seen that movie before, and it's a great movie! But it's time for something new and as daring as the group of reckless goofs this film drew us in with. Alien: Romulus won't be sunk by its flimsy final act, but some of the thrill is lost amid the clutter of callbacks. Still, this is a movie that demands to be seen in theaters, where the volume can gobble you up like so many alien maws.

Alien: Romulus opens in theaters Aug. 16.

Vince Vaughn and the cast of 'Bad Monkey' reveal what it's like to work on a Bill Lawrence set

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 13:55
Vince Vaughn, Zach Braff, Michelle Monaghan, Natalie Martinez and Ronald Peet join Bill Lawrence in breaking down how unique the 'Bad Monkey' set actually was.

Save up to 50% on outdoor deals including items perfect for camping, hiking, and backyard hangouts

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 12:28
Our top picks: Best camping deal REI Co-op Skyward 6 Tent $223.83 at REI (save $225.17) Get Deal Best hiking deal Garmin inReach Messenger $249.99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal Best backyard deal Govee Outdoor String Lights (48 feet) $34.99 at Amazon with on-page coupon (save $20) Get Deal

While some of us can't get enough of sunny summer weather, others can't wait to feel the drop that comes with autumn temps while crunching all the freshly fallen leaves. If you've been waiting for fall adventures, you don't have to wait much longer. But as we wait out the last few weeks of August, now is a great time to take stock of what your outdoor gear look like. We're often pretty rough on outdoor gear, so it's possible some essentials need replacing.

Thankfully, there are some great deals out there that will help you replenish your gear while saving some serious money. Below, we've collected some of our favorite outdoor deals that'll get you out camping, hiking, or chilling in the backyard as we enjoy the changing season.

Best camping deal Opens in a new window Credit: REI Our pick: REI Co-op Skyward 6 Tent $223.83 at REI
$449.00 Save $225.17 Get Deal Why we like it

There's nothing quite like sleeping under the stars, or at least looking out from your bug-free and screened-in tent. If you're interested in sleeping in comfort while camping, the REI Skyward 6 Tent aims to impress with its high ceilings that allow for people as tall as 6'3" to stand upright in the tent. Thanks to today's sale price, this spacious tent can be your haven for just $223.83, which is a whopping 50% discount off the usual price of $449.

The close to vertical walls means you'll be living in luxury in the Skyward 6 Tent that can sleep up to six people. Weighing a bit more than 15 pounds, this option might be best if you're camping from the car and don't need to hike in all of your supplies. But the spacious tent can be perfect for families heading out for some fall camping.

More camping deals:Best hiking deal Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Our pick: Garmin inReach Messenger $249.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Safety should always come first when you're out hiking. Taking pictures of every single mushroom you come across is second. But in terms of safety, head out well-equipped with the Garmin inReach Messenger, which is on sale today for just $249.99, down from the list price of $299.99. That's a 17% discount, or a savings of $50. But having peace of mind that you're always in contact with the outside world is priceless.

The Garmin inReach Messenger allows you global two-way messaging even when there's no cell coverage. With a satellite subscription, you'll be able to stay in contact long after your phone has lost a signal, letting friends and family know you're safe and what your expected ETA back home is. You can also share your location via GPS and should things go wrong, you can trigger an SOS message.

More hiking deals:Best backyard deal Opens in a new window Credit: Govee Our pick: Govee Outdoor String Lights (48 feet) $34.99 at Amazon
$54.99 Save $20.00 with on-page coupon Get Deal Why we like it

A set of outdoor string lights can take a backyard party to the next level when it comes to ambiance. The Govee Outdoor String Lights are made with waterproof and shatterproof bulbs which means you'll never have to worry about a rainstorm ruining your outdoor set-up. Thanks to the sale price with the on-page coupon, you can score a 48-foot set of Govee lights for just $34.99 instead of the usual price of $54.99.

With the Govee Home app, you can control the lights and choose between 16 million colors or cold or warm white, and they can even synch to your current music. Not only does this make your fall backyard gathering brighter, the lights can also be awesome for Halloween and since they're safe in the snow, you can even leave them up through the winter holidays.

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The best gaming deals of the week: Save on 'Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door' and more

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 12:12
The best gaming deals of the week at a glance: Best PlayStation Deal 'Final Fantasy XVI' $29.99 at Amazon (Save $20) Get Deal Best Xbox Deal 'Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown' $24.98 at Amazon (Save $25.01) Get Deal Best Nintendo Switch Deal 'Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door' $49.99 at Woot! (Save $10) Get Deal

School may be in session, but that doesn't mean the fun and games have to come to an end — video games, at least. Whether you just sent the kids back to school or you're taking classes yourself, gaming is a great way to unwind after a long day of learning. And there are plenty of awesome deals to take advantage of right now in the best gaming deals of the week.

You can save big on huge Nintendo Switch hits right now, like the recently released Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, bringing the hype all the way back from its GameCube debut to new audiences. There's also the sprawling Final Fantasy XVI for PlayStation gamers, and Xbox fans can look forward to adventuring with the Prince in Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown.

No matter which platform you play on, there's a deal for you. Check out our favorite picks of the week below.

Best PlayStation deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 'Final Fantasy XVI' $49.99 at Amazon
Get Deal Why we like it

The darkest Final Fantasy yet is a massive, cinematic adventure that shouldn't be missed. Final Fantasy XVI digs deep into its roots and comes away with a new twist on the series with a dark fantasy. Journey to the continent of Valisthea and take on the role of Clive Rosfield, who finds his kingdom destroyed, his brother Joshua missing, and a mysterious drought known as Blight taking over the land. This gritty twist on the normally plucky series is a stark departure, but an excellent one that fans won't want to pass up, especially at this price.

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Best Xbox deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 'Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown' $49.99 at Amazon
Get Deal Why we like it

The Prince is back in this Metroidvania that introduces a new protagonist: Sargon. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown finds Sargon running, dashing, and jumping through the cursed city of Mount Qaf to rescue Prince Ghassan. A member of The Immortals, a warrior clan, Sargon is a skilled adventurer that you'll love taking control of, especially if you love to zip through challenging levels that'll have you stretching your parkouring muscles. And the fresh coat of paint for the Prince of Persia series isn't half-bad, either.

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Consoles and accessories

Best Nintendo Switch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 'Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door' $49.99 at Woot!
$59.99 Save $10.00 Get Deal Why we like it

This Nintendo Switch remake of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door takes the 2004 GameCube cult classic and gives it a fresh coat of paint for a new generation of players. It includes updated graphics and animation, music, and additional quality of life changes to help keep it in line with modern releases, as well as a new fast travel system and additional boss encounters. Meanwhile, the story is still the same: Mario and Princess Peach find themselves searching for a lost treasure and Peach is kidnapped (surprise). Mario has to set off on a journey to save Peach from aliens called X-Nauts while seeking out a piece of that treasure, too. If you loved it back on the GameCube, it's even better now. If this is your first time, you'll have a blast.

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Google just dropped a new AI camera update — and you don’t need a new Pixel 9 for it

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 12:08

Google has an AI update for its Magnifier app that's geared towards people with low vision. And the best part is you don't need a new Pixel 9 to use it.

Magnifier is an app was released last year as an accessibility tool that works with Pixel cameras to magnify text, details, and zoom in on distant objects. As of Tuesday, it has been updated with AI-powered capabilities to make gathering visual information easier.

SEE ALSO: Everything announced at Made by Google 2024, including the new Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel Watch 3, and Gemini Live

The Made by Google event mostly focused on hardware, unveiling the Pixel 9 series, the Pixel Watch 3, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2, with a deep integration of AI-powered features for the new devices. However, not everything Google launched yesterday required a new gadget. Magnifier is available for Pixel 5 and newer.

With the Magnifier update, users can now search for text within the camera view for things like looking up specific dishes on a menu, finding flight information on those big airport screens.

The app also has a new picture-in-picture format, so you can take a picture of a certain aspect of something you're viewing and keep that image on the screen as you continue to scan. The example Google gives is browsing a deli counter while also looking at the menu. You can also choose different lens settings within the app, like the macro zoom or wide angle. The Selfie Illumination feature automatically lights up the selfie camera, so that plus macro zoom is a useful combination for doing makeup.

While the app was designed with the low-vision community in mind, it's a useful app for just about everyone. Luckily, you don't have to upgrade your device to access the Magnifier update. The app update is available on Google Play.

All the best phone deals we could find this week

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 12:05

Best unlocked phone deals the week of August 14 Best iPhone deal Apple iPhone 13 (Renewed) $422 at Amazon (save $171.84) Get Deal Best Motorola deal Motorola razr (2023) $399.99 at Amazon (save $300 ) Get Deal Best Google Pixel deal Google Pixel 8 $618 at Amazon (save $81) Get Deal

The dust has barely settled from the Made by Google 2024 event, and we're already seeing some sweet deals pop up on smartphones across the market.

We've done our best to gather some of the best phone deals this week. While we can't guarantee they're the absolute "best," these prices are definitely better than paying full retail.

Whether you're team Android or Apple, there's something here for everyone.

The best unlocked phone deal this week Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Our pick: Apple iPhone 13 (Renewed) $422.00 at Amazon
$593.84 Save $171.84 Get Deal Why we picked this

You can get an unlocked Apple iPhone 13 (128GB) for $422 at Amazon. The catch? It’s renewed, which means it’s not brand new. But don’t let that deter you — it’s still a pretty good deal, since you’re basically getting $171 off.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max: What are the differences?

The iPhone 13 may not be the newest model, but it has everything you’d want in a smartphone, and you can save even more if you trade in your old device. Plus, with this deal, you can take the phone and put it on whichever carrier plan works best for you.

This smartphone has a 6.1-inch screen, a 12MP TrueDepth front camera with night mode, the A15 Bionic chip, and up to 19 hours of battery life.

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'Blink Twice' review: Zoë Kravitz gifts us with a truly twisted thrill ride

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 12:00

Who among us hasn't dreamed of being whisked away from our humdrum lives to an exotic island, populated by beautiful people and lush with luxury? This is the dream come true for Blink Twice's heroine, a cater waiter named Frida (I Wanna Dance With Somebody's Naomi Ackie), when dashing tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) offers her a private plane ride to his equally private island. But in this place of poshness and privilege, something heinous hides in plain sight. 

For her directorial debut, actress turned co-writer/helmer Zoë Kravitz brings in a star-studded cast that includes Alia Shawkat, Christian Slater, Adria Arjona, Simon Rex, Haley Joel Osment, Geena Davis, and Kyle MacLachlan. Together, they deliver a gnarly thriller about power, betrayal, and desire that's sure to leave audiences rattled, yet wearing a crooked grin.

Blink Twice is diabolically cast.  Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

Even from the trailer, female viewers might raise an eyebrow at Frida's decision to fly off with no notice to Slater's private island, where she swiftly surrenders her phone to his fiercely chipper assistant (Davis). But the script by Kravitz and E.T. Feigenbaum builds in unspoken assurances: Frida's bestie Jess (Shawkat) is coming along, for starters. Plus, there are other women who will there, like astrology-loving app developer Camilla (Liz Caribel), chess-savvy pothead Heather (Trew Mullen), and Survivor Babes reality TV star Sarah (Arjona). Yet it's not just that the presence of other women makes Frida feel safe about following a billionaire to a second (and remote!) location. These women have an enviable confidence and fun-loving vibe that is intoxicating — even before the party drugs are offered. 

So, when things go from sublime to surreal, it's hard to point the finger and proclaim undeniably that we'd know better. Plus, who could resist the allure of these men? Kravitz casts Channing Tatum, Christian Slater, Simon Rex, and Haley Joel Osment — an array of actors who've been celebrity crushes, sex symbols, and dreamboats. It's easy to imagine saying yes to this fantasy of fame, fortune, and rich, hot, and famous men. Still, Kravitz's female characters are self-aware enough to second-guess their choices as the fancy and fun facade of the island begins to crack.

When Jess goes missing, Frida is mortified to realize that no one else seems to remember her being there at all. But who could forget that freckled spitfire, the sort of friend who always has a lighter when you need one? As Frida grows suspicious, her investigation will lead her into surprising alliances, dark conspiracies, and heart-wrenching revelations. 

Kravitz smartly gives her thriller space to breathe.  Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

The premise of a private island that's not actually paradise might sound cliched, but Kravitz and Feigenbaum give their story time to develop and envelop. A grubby bathroom scene in Frida and Jess's apartment swiftly establishes their shared intimacy and humble circumstances. The gala, where they strategically swap their cater-waiter uniforms for slinking cocktail dresses to sneak in among the affluent guests, is explored from the crowded kitchens to the swanky ballroom. However, it's on the island itself where Kravitz wisely takes her time, developing the heady routine of pleasure-chasing, which involves an endless supply of drugs, booze, cuisine, and bright, white attire for every occasion. 

Sure, Jess will joke that the female guests all being provided the same white bathing suits, the same white dinner dresses, and the same accessories seems "cultish." But it's a detail easy to forget in the haze of pot smoke and budding romance. Frida's keen to spend every moment she can with Slater, and Tatum is a master of playing the romantic lead. His warm smile, concentrated stare, and soft, husky voice is a smooth seduction. And all this sultriness and sumptuousness invites us to live vicariously through Frida, with Ackie's wide eyes and enchanted smile reflecting our own. This cozy setup makes the jagged punctures of this dream world hit all the harder, because you might even forget you're not watching a romance but a thriller.

Kravitz crafts a crackling and satisfying thriller.  Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

I don't need to share spoilers to celebrate Blink Twice's second half. Simply put, Ackie handles the turn from besotted to terrified with a visceral aplomb. Tatum makes a surprisingly sensational villain, while the rest of the supporting cast bursts with energy, whether playing malicious or manic. Christian Slater in particular seems to relish the chance to sink his teeth into Kravitz's juicy revelations, practically spitting through an unnerving smile. 

Elsewhere, Rex (who earned critical acclaim for 2021's Red Rocket) and Haley Joel Osment are happy to play a pair of fools, while Caribel and Mullen dazzle with brat summer charm. Arjona proves a standout though, shifting from Frida's romantic rival to something far less archetypal and far more complex — and even surprisingly funny. 

Perhaps the greatest surprise of Blink Twice is just how slyly humorous it is. The material gets dark, but Kravitz and her cast lace in an absurdity that keeps us at the edge of our seats, instead of buried behind our hands. The defiant comedy amid the horror here urges us to keep hope alive, even when things look bleak, much like Radio Silence's 2019 hit Ready or Not. That film feels like an influence here, in terms of some plot and aesthetic details, and these similarities — as well as visual nods to movies like I Spit on Your Grave — might have some viewers snarking that Blink Twice is derivative. But Kravitz uses familiar pieces to build her foundation, then crafts a freshly exhilarating adventure that feels of its time. Rather than an imitator of these movies, it feels a kindred spirit, using its screams to deliver a message that is achingly timeless. 

Which is all to say, Blink Twice is a knockout. 

Blink Twice opens in theaters Aug. 23.

Amazon deal of the day: Pre-order the Google Pixel 9 and get a free $100 Amazon gift card

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 11:44

Check out Amazon's best deals of the day on August 14:

Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Google Pixel 9 $799 with free $100 Amazon gift card Get Deal BEST TABLET DEAL Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (128GB) $479.99 at Amazon (save $120) Get Deal BEST EARBUDS DEAL JBL Tune Flex $49.95 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST BLUETOOTH TRACKER DEAL Tile Starter Pack $39.25 at Amazon (save $15.74) Get Deal

Today's a good day to treat yourself to some tech deals at Amazon. Top brands like Samsung and Tile have discounted their devices on this random Wednesday in August, while Google just launched new gadgets with free Amazon gift cards attached.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day on Aug. 14. If none of these spark your interest, be sure to check out our picks from Aug. 12 and Aug. 13. Some of those discounts are still live as well.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Google / Amazon Google Pixel 9 free $100 Amazon gift card with preorder Get Deal

Google announced its latest Pixel 9 smartphone at the Made By Google event on Aug. 13, and it's now up for preorder at Amazon. When you secure the AI-infused phone ahead of its official release on Aug. 22, you'll get a free $100 Amazon gift card. The Pixel 9 isn't a massive leap from the Pixel 8, but it does include some essential upgrades. It wields Google's new Tensor G4 chip, which is allegedly nearly 20% faster, a completely refreshed AI experience, a 35% brighter display, and a new 48 MP ultrawide camera lens. Oh, and now it comes in pink!

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (128GB) $479.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $120.00 Get Deal

Basically a budget-friendly alternative to the flagship Galaxy Tab S9, the FE+ is a "great tablet for casual users who still want a high-quality, reliable device." It touts the same tough IP68 dust- and water-resistant rating, a 12.4.-inch screen, 20 hours of battery life, and included S Pen as its more expensive sibling. However, it differs in the CPU, display quality, and price. As of Aug. 14, you can snag the 128GB version on sale for only $479.99 at Amazon — that's a savings of 20%. Need more storage? The 256GB model is also on sale for just $549.99, a savings of 21%.

Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Tune Flex $49.95 at Amazon
$99.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal

While they may not be the fanciest earbuds on the market, the JBL Tune Flex do offer some impressive features for their price. Those include noise cancellation, Ambient Aware mode, bass-first tuning, customizable EQ, and a battery life up to 32 hours. Our friends at PCMag (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis) were not thrilled with the fit of these buds and wouldn't recommend them at full price, but on sale for just $49.95, you could definitely do worse.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tile Tile Starter Pack $39.25 at Amazon
$54.99 Save $15.74 Get Deal

If you're new to Bluetooth trackers, Tile's starter pack is a solid introduction to these devices. It comes with one Tile Mate (one of our top picks for a Bluetooth tracker) and one Tile Slim for only $39.25 — that's 29% cheaper than buying each one separately. The Mate can attach to your keys, luggage, or other items without much bulk, while the Slim is about the size of a credit card and can slip into your wallet or purse. Both are designed to reliably help you keep track of your stuff through GPS. If you opt into the paid Tile Premium subscription you'll unlock even more features, like notifications when you leave stuff behind and item reimbursement.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

'Teacup' horror teaser has a family fighting an unseen threat

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 11:30
Peacock has released its teaser for "Teacup", a new horror/thriller series based on Robert McCammon's novel "Stinger".

Save up to 25% off classroom essentials during Instacart's Back-To-School Deal Week

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 11:02

SAVE UP TO 25%: As of August 14, save up to 25% off classroom essentials at retailers like Best Buy, Rite Aid and Staples during Instacart Back-To-School Deal Week.

Opens in a new window Credit: Instacart Instacart Back-To-School Deal Week Get Deal

School is officially back in session, and that means there's shopping to be done. Whether you're grabbing some school supplies you forgot to pick up or restocking the pantry for hungry kids in and out of the kitchen, saving some money on things you're going to buy anyway probably sounds like a good idea. And not having to leave your house to get it all? An even better one. Thanks to a promotion from Instacart, you can have all that and more for a limited time.

As of August 14, you can save up to 25% off school supplies, grocery and convenience items during Instacart's Back-To-School Deal Week. You can save on eligible orders at select retailers like Staples, Best Buy, Rite Aid and Sprouts. You'll find savings on a variety of goods, and the percentage you'll save will be cut from your entire order, with order minimums and maximum savings that will apply per retailer.

SEE ALSO: 60+ best back-to-school deals for students on a budget

To access the deal, head to the Instacart homepage, either within the Instacart app or the deal promotion landing page. Choose the retailer you want to shop, add all your items to your cart, and check out. You'll see applicable promotions there, where you can save up to 25% off. Choose the one that works for you and your discount will automatically be applied.

Though not every retailer you want to shop will be included in this sale, it's still a good way to save some serious cash if you have things you still need to pick up to prepare for the new school year. Or if you're short on ingredients for dinner. This promotion is running through August 19, so be sure to get your shopping in while it's still going on.

Attention Prime members: Stock up on essentials and save 15% on purchases over $50

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 10:48

SPEND $50+ AND SAVE 15%: Prime members who spend $50+ on eligible Amazon-brand items can save 15% during the Amazon stock up and save event.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Save 15% on orders of $50+ on eligible Amazon-brand items Prime-member exclusive savings Get Deal

For some of us, it's super easy to stop by the store a couple of times a week. For others, it's at least a half hour journey to the local store. In either case, it can be convenient to keep a stockpile of essential supplies around the house like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and health-care items. If your pantry and supply closet is looking a little slim these days, check out this stock-up sale at Amazon.

As of Aug. 14, Prime members can save 15% on purchases of eligible Amazon-brand items when you spend $50 or more during the Amazon stock up and save event. The discount will automatically apply to your cart once you have $50+ worth of eligible items. The maximum total savings during this sale is $100.

SEE ALSO: Amazon deal of the day: Sony's WH-1000XM4 noise-cancelling headphones just dropped below $200

The sale extends to hundreds of handy Amazon-brand items, including many in the mega-retailer's Amazon Basics and Amazon Essentials product lineup. If you're heading back to school yourself or getting ready to send the kids back, stock up on essential school supplies like a box of 30 Amazon Basics #2 pencils, which is currently on sale for just $1.99, or a set of Amazon Basics Premium Colored Pencils, which is also on sale for just $3.99.

The sale also includes plenty of household essentials that are always nice to have around, like cotton swabs and toothbrushes.

You can also find plenty of great pet supplies that are both on sale and eligible for the discount, like the Amazon Basics Dog and Puppy Pee Pads, Amazon Basics Flea and Tick Topical Treatment for Cats, and Amazon Brand Wag Dental Chews for dogs.

Keep in mind that to score the 15% discount during the stock up and save event, you'll need to be signed up and logged into your Amazon Prime membership. If you're not a Prime member already, a monthly membership costs $14.99 per month, or you can snag an annual plan for $139.

If you're in the midst of back-to-school season, check out the great savings available during the Amazon stock up and save event. You'll save 15% on items that are likely already on your weekly shopping list.

Get Max free (with ads) with the DashPass annual plan

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 10:37

FREE MAX (WITH ADS): Get a discounted annual DashPass subscription from DoorDash and enjoy unlimited $0 delivery fees, reduced service fees, and a Max with Ads subscription at no extra cost — all for just $96/year ($8/ month).

Opens in a new window Credit: DoorDash DashPass annual subscription $9.99 at Max
$19.98 Save $9.99 Includes Max with Ads subscription at no extra cost Get Deal

If you use DoorDash but aren’t a DashPass subscriber, you could be missing out on a great deal.

Right now, you can get DashPass for just $8 per month when you sign up for a DashPass annual plan. That comes with a free Max with Ads subscription, which normally costs $9.99 per month — that's a savings of $119.88 per year.

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

Sure, the free Max plan includes ads, but the savings on delivery fees are more than enough to make up for it. DashPass offers free delivery on orders of $12 or more, and you'll also get reduced service fees. According to the DoorDash website, subscribers save $4-5 per order.

If you use DoorDash even a few times a month, getting the DashPass annual plan with free Max is a no-brainer.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson goes on a bloody rampage in 'Kraven the Hunter' trailer

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 10:28
"Kraven the Hunter" also stars Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott, and Russell Crowe.

It's not a 'Jai Ho summer' when brown people are facing death threats

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 10:09

As an Indian immigrant living in the UK, I have oscillated between being hesitant and terrified to leave my house in south London since July 30. In late July and early August, most of England and parts of Northern Ireland have witnessed widespread racist violence following the murder of three little girls — Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine – in Southport on July 29. Following the attack, misinformation largely spread through social media falsely stated that the perpetrator was Muslim or an undocumented immigrant, stirring up a simmering wave of Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism across the nation.

On July 30, over 200 rioters hijacked a vigil in memory of the victims in Southport. Soon after, far-right groups such as the English Defence League and the Patriotic Alternative mobilised troops from Belfast to Birmingham, cultivating a state of reactive hatred against people of colour, especially Muslims. The mobs have looted and destroyed brown-run businesses, laid siege to mosques, and set fire to accommodation housing asylum seekers. Countless people who practise Islam and/or are brown have been verbally and physically assaulted on the streets and on social media.

Rioters in Southport, England on July 30, 2024. Credit: Christopher Furlong / Getty Images Rioters outside of a hotel housing asylum seekers in Manvers, England, on Aug. 4, 2024. Credit: Christopher Furlong / Getty Images

In the midst of this, I have been inundated with panicked calls and messages from my family instructing me to stay home and, at all costs, avoid wearing any recognisable South Asian elements like jhumkas (bell-shaped earrings) or embroidered kurtas (a traditional tunic). While I shakily tried to reassure my parents that things weren't as bad as they seemed (they definitely were), I felt deeply betrayed by the city that I call home as an adult. I was frantically second guessing every gaze that landed on me on the bus and walking a little faster from the train station; turning down the volume on my earphones to hear every movement behind me, in preparation for the worst. 

So imagine my absolute horror when I went on TikTok seeking some escapist doom scrolling only to discover the tone deaf "Jai Ho" summer trend. At a time when brown people feel threatened in the UK, several caucasian creators have brought back the 2009 Pussycat Dolls version of the Hindi song "Jai Ho", recorded for the controversial Danny Boyle film Slumdog Millionaire. The once popular track is not back in the limelight in support of people of colour but instead, as a party anthem. Turns out, at the time of its release, the song whose title translates to "may victory prevail" manifested as a popular drinking game in the UK. Now, a decade later, the bop has returned on social media as creators post videos getting dressed and chugging beers to the sound.

This movement was led by British YouTuber and TikTokker Flossi Clegg who had posted six (now-deleted) videos to the controversial sound while on vacation in Greece. The posts had garnered over 3 million views and were littered with comments from brown TikTok users calling Clegg out for her insensitivity or making her aware of the riots sweeping the UK. In its wake, many people of colour also posted videos to the sound, mocking the trend and urging white people with racial privilege to acknowledge the dire reality of the country. However, a week later, new videos of young creators pregaming to "Jai Ho" continue to be uploaded online on the daily. 

Although upsetting, this reaction is not shocking for many brown people. "What’s happening right now isn’t new, there is always an appropriation of marginalised cultures whether that’s with our clothes and jewellery or slang and music," Vandita Morarka, founder and CEO of social justice non-profit One Future Collective, tells Mashable. "People want this culture because it makes them seem interesting or exotic but they don’t want the community that created it, in fact they want to invisibilise those creators until the culture is forgotten and accepted as their own."

Think of the recent Scandinavian scarf debacle that took over TikTok. In a now-deleted post from late May, an employee from Bipty Fashion Rental shared screenshots of white women wearing long, flowy dresses with sheer scarves or dupattas draped across their shoulders and over their chest. A quick glance at the block print on the dresses as well as the style of the shawl immediately reveals that the outfits in question were in fact South Asian. However things got complicated when the creator ignorantly stripped the dupatta of its cultural significance by exclaiming, "What is this aesthetic called? It’s not Scandinavian summer wedding guest, but it’s very European, very classy, effortlessly chic." 

In a similar fashion, the "Jai Ho" summer trend conveniently separates the song from its Indian origin or the ongoing socio-cultural context, positing it as a frivolous dance track on social media and nothing more. Several users have criticised brown people for overreacting or dramatising a "fun trend" into a political statement. Comments like "You're so bitter, you need to touch grass" and "Brown people cry about how they never get representation…but when someone does it, yall start losing it" are increasingly common on videos. But this tendency to silence cries against racism and instead label them as overly sensitive is rooted in British history. On one hand, the internet insists we're deeping it by not seeing a mindless trend for what it is. On the other, fascist attacks on people of colour are being labelled as "protests" to protect what apparently belongs to white Britons. 

Since time immemorial, the UK has gaslit us by reframing racism as minor disagreements. As Dazed news editor Serena Smith writes, “Britain is often described as a country where racism is subtle: We don’t have KKK rallies and lynch mobs; we have microaggressions wrapped in polite debate." In reality, the UK's undeniable colonial history remains entrenched in our present. To this day, as journalist Michaela Makusha writes for Teen Vogue, British culture has a habit of denying racism and relabelling it as "small groups of bigoted individuals". 

Despite Britain's insistence that the racism is isolated and not representative of a larger national sentiment, for years the UK has allowed political leaders and media to normalise Islamophobia and single out people of colour. "The riots are a culmination of anti-immigration rhetoric fed to us by the government and media. It’s no surprise that people are filled with the narrative that immigrants = bad. This is the information they’ve been told," explains Sharan Dhaliwal, founder and CEO of South Asian magazine Burnt Roti, adding that the violence has left her terrified to leave her home in Hounslow, London. For others in the brown community, the ongoing racial attacks are a painful reminder of the past. Back in 1976, Southall witnessed racist and murderous riots while in 1981, several South Asian homes in Walthamstow were set on fire. 

"The 'Jai Ho' summer is extremely perplexing; there's nothing 'Jai Ho' about the lives we’re living." - Mehek Bukhari

British Pakistani cultural commentator Mehek Bukhari was raised on stories of P-word bashing. She recalls her grandfather barricading their postbox from fear of people throwing fireworks in them. "In this context, the 'Jai Ho' summer is extremely perplexing; there's nothing 'Jai Ho' about the lives we’re living," she says. "As upsetting as it is, I’m not shocked as there’s a pattern of people in privilege absorbing other cultures in a way that suits their aesthetic and humour, but refusing to say anything when it comes to material reality." 

To make matters worse, the original "Jai Ho" song appeared on the soundtrack of the 2008 Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, which was also steeped in controversy. Directed by British filmmaker Danny Boyle and starring actors Dev Patel and Freida Pinto, the movie follows a teenager from Dharavi, India's biggest slum situated in Mumbai, as he journeys on a quest to fame. While the movie was widely celebrated in the West, winning eight Academy Awards, several Golden Globes and BAFTAs, back home in South Asia it was criticised for pandering to the Western gaze as navel-gazing poverty porn. 

In a 2009 interview with the LA Times, Shyamal Sengupta, then film professor at Whistling Woods institute in Mumbai had said, "[Slumdog Millionaire] is a white man’s imagined India. It’s not quite snake charmers, but it’s close. It’s a poverty tour.” It's deeply ironic then that years later, the song has returned to the mainstream and is still being celebrated by white people while communities of colour continue to battle racist tropes on-screen, and while off-screen we're made to feel unsafe in our homes, communities, and businesses. It highlights a privileged white urge to only accept parts of brown culture that they deem desirable and appropriate, without much thought or care to the community that the art centres.  

Just imagine the shock that ignorant bystanders will feel when they finally realise that the very song they are branding on TikTok as a summer anthem is not only brown but is in fact written by A. R. Rahman, a Muslim man from the same community whom they refuse to stand up for. As Bukhari rightly says, "Seeing trends like the 'Jai Ho 'summer feels like a slap in the face; I’m tired of carrying the onus to consistently educate people. It’s time that they take responsibility for their actions, we need to move away from people of colour having to spoon-feed people with privilege."

Embrace the darkness with the new 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2 trailer

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 10:00
The new season of "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" premieres Aug. 29 on Prime Video.

The smart notebook you didn’t know you needed

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 09:43

Studies show that writing things down strengthens the connection between different areas of the brain so you’re more likely to remember information. But keeping all your notes on paper isn't always practical. You often end up having to type things up later to share with others or search through notebooks to find what you need.

The reMarkable tablet solves this problem, giving you the best of both worlds. It’s a thin, lightweight tablet you can write on, just like a notebook. When you’re done, the notes exist digitally, so you can easily edit, share, or organize your thoughts. 

Opens in a new window Credit: reMarkable reMarkable 2 Tablet $449.00 at Best Buy
Take control of all your notes, PFDs, and to-do lists Shop Now

Here are three reasons to consider adding one to your back-to-school shopping list. 

It really feels like pen to paper

The glare-free E Ink display on the incredibly light (less than a pound), 10.3-inch gadget makes this tablet feel more like paper. Plus, the stylus is more responsive and pen-like than others you may have used before. 

The similarities don’t end there, either. You can choose between notebook page templates like lined, blank, or US legal. Though — unlike paper — it does require charging, but the battery life is extensive, lasting up to two weeks from just one charge. 

Integration with the tools you use

The reMarkable integrates with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, allowing you to upload notes and documents directly to the tech you already use day-to-day. It also supports screen sharing, so you can display your notes and ideas in real-time during presentations or meetings.

When you buy a reMarkable 2, you also get a year-long trial of Connect, a subscription service that gives you unlimited cloud storage, a protection plan, and exclusive offers and discounts. 

Write messy, read clean

When taking quick notes or getting your ideas out on paper, your writing can get messy. The reMarkable 2 converts handwriting into text, making it easier to edit, copy, or annotate. Plus, if you’re sharing notes with colleagues or peers, you can rest assured they’ll actually be able to read them. 

The reMarkable 2 paper tablet ($449.00), packs, and accessories are available at Best Buy.

Brandy's mother-in-law is pure horror in A24's 'The Front Room' trailer

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 09:05
Brandy battles a truly insidious mother-in-law in the trailer for A24 horror "The Front Room".

Stephen Colbert runs through weirdest bits of the Musk/Trump X interview

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 08:22
In case you didn't stick around for Elon Musk to "catch a vibe" with Donald Trump yesterday, Stephen Colbert has a full rundown.

JK Rowling, Elon Musk named in cyber harassment lawsuit filed by Imane Khelif

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 07:50

JK Rowling and Elon Musk have both been named in a cyber harassment lawsuit filed by Algerian boxer and Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif.

The pair are mentioned in the body of the complaint, Variety confirmed with Khelif's attorney Nabil Boudi, over posts made on X (formerly Twitter) about Khelif during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The suit has been filed in Paris against X itself, which gives French authorities scope to investigate anyone alleged to have been involved in cyber harassment against Khelif.

Specifically, the Paris prosecutor's office will examine "the counts of cyber harassment due to gender, public insult because of gender, public incitement to discrimination and public insult because of origin," per a statement given to the publisher.

SEE ALSO: Reddit introduces an AI-powered tool that will detect online harassment

Khelif received a huge amount of online hate and false accusations about her gender during the Paris Olympics, including from high profile accounts with millions of followers.

Rowling shared a number of posts on X about Khelif, some of which were viewed tens of millions of times. In one post she referred to Khelif as a "man" and a "bullying cheat", presumably referring to the International Boxing Association's (IBA's) decision to disqualify Khelif from the 2023 world championships due to an unspecified test that the IBA claimed gave her "competitive advantages over other female competitors."

Musk, meanwhile, shared a post by American swimmer Riley Gaines reading, "Men don't belong in women's sports," with the X owner commenting, "Absolutely."

On the same day that Rowling and Musk made their posts, however, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) pushed back with its own statement.

"We have seen in reports misleading information about two female athletes competing at the Olympic Games Paris 2024," it reads. "The two athletes have been competing in international boxing competitions for many years in the women’s category, including the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, International Boxing Association (IBA) World Championships and IBA-sanctioned tournaments.

"These two athletes were the victims of a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA. Towards the end of the IBA World Championships in 2023, they were suddenly disqualified without any due process."

Khelif went on to win a gold medal in the women's 66kg. A few days later she filed the complaint.

Seth Meyers breaks down the lowlights of Elon Musk's interview with Trump

Mashable - Wed, 08/14/2024 - 07:33
Seth Meyers has mocked Elon Musk's interview with Trump during his "Late Night" monologue.

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