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I got to play ‘Control’ on a MacBook before you — here's why PCs should be worried

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 08:42

I just played an early copy of Control on the new M4 MacBook Pro, and I couldn't help but think, "Yikes, PCs better watch their back!"

Before die-hard PC gamers jump in with, "macOS is still miles away from Windows when it comes to gaming," I hear you. I'm not saying that Macs are nipping at Windows PCs' heels. They're not — at least, not yet.

However, in the gaming realm, the gap between Windows and macOS is beginning to shrink — and that should terrify Windows. Why? While Windows may still have hardcore gamers wrapped around its fingers, it may start to lose its grip on casual and newbie gamers. And my experience with Control confirmed this for me.

'Control' on the M4 MacBook Pro is sick

You may have played Control on another platform before, but you likely haven't played Control like this.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Launched nearly five years ago, the action-adventure game came out on PC, PS4, and Xbox One. But on a shiny new M4 MacBook Pro, I was floored by its graphical fidelity and breathtaking visuals.

The M4 chip breathed new life into Control. Playing as Jesse Faden, a young woman with supernatural abilities, I levitated over the jagged terrain — and I was mesmerized by the dynamic lighting that danced on each rock formation, casting soft-edged, realistic shadows that shifted with my movements.

Some floating debris and polished stone surfaces picked up ambient reflections, adding a subtle glossy effect. Even distant light sources bounced off rocks and debris, creating reflections that feel true-to-life.

The graphics were vivid, crisp, and eye-catching. Faden looked visually stunning, too. She was kicking butt and taking names with a leather jacket that seemed so tangible, I was convinced I could feel the texture if I touched the screen.

Why does Control look so darn good? Thank the hardware-accelerated ray-tracing and mesh shading found on the M4 chip (as well as the previous-generation M3 chip). In simple terms, the latest Macs can render ultra-realistic lighting and shadows. Plus, they can manage detailed 3D environments more seamlessly.

With a computationally complex game like Control playing so smoothly and responsively on the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro, Windows should be concerned.

It's worth noting, though, that I didn't get to feel the underside of the MacBook Pro to determine its thermal management. Plus, I wasn't able to observe any load times for Control — the game was already fired up and ready to play at Apple's showcase.

Apple may lure more laptop consumers away from Windows

Let's say you're looking for a new laptop. You don't consider yourself a gamer, but you want to get started. You want a machine that's perfect for daytime productivity and casual nighttime gaming. You don't have any allegiance to macOS nor Windows, but the former has a reputation of delivering long battery life and beastly performance.

14-inch M4 MacBook Pro Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

After all, in our recent testing of the M4 MacBook Pro, it lasted 16 hours and 32 minutes on a single charge. Performance-wise, it blew rivals away.

Plus, macOS is set to support one of the most graphics-intensive games on the market: Cyberpunk 2077.

MacBooks have a limited library compared to Windows (an issue that Apple is tackling with the Game Porting Toolkit to help developers bring their Windows games to macOS more efficiently), but that's OK — you're just giving gaming a taste and you're fine with just sampling what's on offer.

Additionally, Apple appears to be working tooth-and-nail to bring more games into its catalog, including Control, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and more.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

While considering a Windows laptop, the same consumer may be attracted to its vast library of games, but they'll likely have to contend with poor battery life and being shackled to an outlet all day long.

That being said, whether you're a newbie gamer who isn't drawn to specific titles, or a casual player who doesn't mind macOS' current catalog, there isn't much that will lure you into Windows' arms, particularly if you're an OS-agnostic consumer.

In other words, if you're a here-and-there gamer who isn't bothered by a limited gaming library, then why opt for Windows?

Control, set to roll out on macOS in February 2025, might be the wake-up call Windows needs to address its possible slipping appeal among casual and newbie gamers. As mentioned at the outset, the gap between Windows and macOS in the gaming world is still wide, but Apple is making steady progress.

Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch (M3 Max) $2,384.82 at Amazon
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How Sharon Horgan found a way to make the unexpected 'Bad Sisters' second season

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 08:26
The first season of 'Bad Sisters' was a complete story based off the Belgian limited-series, 'Clan'. After it's smash success, Sharon Horgan had a vision for how it could continue. The star-studded cast tells us how her vision came to fruition.

Get $50 off the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Plus before Black Friday

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 07:20

SAVE OVER $50: As of Nov. 14, the 64GB Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Plus is on sale for $169.72, down 23% from its list price of $219.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Plus 11-inch 64GB Android Tablet $169.72 at Amazon
$219.99 Save $50.27 Get Deal

There's been an excellent variety of deals dropping ahead of Black Friday. In particular, there's been a wealth of tablets on sale that are definitely worth checking out if you've been looking for an upgrade or to make the jump into buying your first. One of our favorite tablet deals at the moment is over at Amazon, where you can score a very nice discount on the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Plus.

The 64GB model of Samsung's tablet is currently on sale for $169.72, 23% off its list price of $219.99. This saves you $50.27, which is a very nice discount on such a sleek tablet. It's worth noting as well that it's marked as a 'limited-time deal' at the retailer. So, if you've had your eye on it, you'll want to act fast to pick it up.

SEE ALSO: Snag an Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet for its lowest price ever ahead of Black Friday

This model comes with 64GB of storage alongside an upgraded chipset and quad speakers that offer Dolby Atmos, all packed into a slim, lightweight design with a massive 11-inch screen to boot. It's perfect to take on the go and use for work or play.

This limited-time deal won't last long, so don't miss out on this Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Plus deal at Amazon.

There's plenty more to come from Amazon over this Black Friday shopping season, too. The company recently revealed when its Black Friday sale runs — starting on Thursday, Nov. 21, and going through Cyber Monday on Dec. 2 — which are sure to offer an abundance of new discounts for shoppers. And if you want to see even more early Black Friday deals, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target are all offering different deals ahead of the big shopping day that are worth checking out.

Jimmy Kimmel pranking his aunt with a driverless car is a fun watch

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 07:17
Jimmy Kimmel pranked his Aunt Chippy with a lift in a driverless car on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"

Martha on a Mantle: Where to find the best deals

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 07:17
Where to find the best deals on Martha on The Mantel Best for doll Martha on The Mantel Christmas Green Plush Figurine $24.98 at Walmart Shop Now Best for bundle Snoop and Martha Special Limited Edition Duo Set $98.99 at Walmart Shop Now

It's time for Elf on the Shelf to step aside. That little guy has been tormenting families for years, but his time is up. Martha on The Mantel has arrived to take over his gig.

The Martha On The Mantle Christmas elf doll stands at 10.5 inches tall and includes a scarf, holiday wreath, wine bottle, and gifts. It's a fun way to add some holiday cheer and of course, some signature Martha Stewart sophisticated flair to your Christmas decor. It's absolutely ideal for mantles, shelves, or any festive spot in your home.

SEE ALSO: 'Nutcrackers' trailer: Ben Stiller and David Gordon Green cook up Christmas chaos

And if Martha on The Mantel isn't enough, you can double up with a Snoop and Martha limited-edition duo set. Snoop comes with a festive red outfit, complete with a shimmering necklace and iconic sunglasses. They belong together.

Walmart is the best place to find deals on these elf dolls. And that's not all, because Walmart has already dropped a bunch of early-access Black Friday deals. You can save on absolutely everything on your shopping list (and pick up a few festive items at the same time).

Google Gemini is now available for the iPhone

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 07:15

Google's Gemini artificial intelligence assistant is now available as a standalone iPhone app.

The app became widely available on Wednesday after being spotted in some regions a few days ago.

SEE ALSO: Google's Gemini Live may let you talk to it about your uploaded files

This is not to be confused with using Gemini in Google's Google app on iOS, although the experience is quite similar. The standalone Gemini app skips all the additional parts and just goes straight to Gemini, which you can ask questions in text or speech format. Additionally, you can attach a photo to your query.

Other options include Gemini Live, which turns Gemini into a far more conversational partner. This is a big one, as it's not available in the Google app, so it's probably going to be the primary reason to choose the standalone Gemini app over the Google app.

The app is a free download in Apple's App Store, but it does offer in-app purchases. That's if you want to upgrade to Gemini Advanced, which is a part of Google's One AI premium plan. For a $18.99 monthly fee, you'll get a more advanced Gemini model, access to Gemini in apps such as Gmail and Docs, and faster access to new and experimental features.

Gemini Live is something you don't get in the regular Google app. Credit: Google

The app may not yet be available in all markets, but we did try a few big ones and it was there. This includes the U.S., the UK, and Australia.

'Daily Show' roasts Trump's Fox News host defence secretary pick for a solid 5 minutes

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 06:16
"Daily Show" host Jordan Klepper has broken down Trump's cabinet picks, focussing on Fox host Pete Hegseth as defence secretary.

Stephen Colbert mocks Trump picking a Fox News host for defence secretary

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 06:08
Stephen Colbert has spoken about Trump's new cabinet picks on "The Late Show", including Fox News host Pete Hegseth being made defence secretary.

Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 06:02

Things are heating up. With Black Friday looming on the horizon, a number of retailers are getting ahead of the competition by launching early-access deals. We're not complaining, because it just means more time to secure savings on absolutely everything on your shopping list.

Walmart is a big name that has already launched its Black Friday campaign. Walmart's Early Black Friday Deals started on Nov. 11, and its savings-packed ad includes some really interesting offers. We've checked out everything from Walmart's Black Friday ad to find the best early deals on everything from Apple products to gaming essentials.

SEE ALSO: Walmart's multi-part Black Friday plans involve new surprise deals and extra early access for members

And if you are going to shop with Walmart over the Black Friday period, you should consider signing up for a Walmart+ membership. This popular plan is currently available at a 50% discount. A one-year subscription is on sale for $49, and includes access to early Black Friday deals, free delivery, savings on gas, discounts on Paramount+, and much more.

But we digress...These are the best deals you can buy online from Walmart's Black Friday ad.

Best deals on AppleBest deals on beauty techBest deals on dronesBest deals on gaming techBest deals on headphonesBest deals on laptopsBest deals on TVsBest deals on vacuums

Get a heavy discount on the Beats Solo 3 at Walmart

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:21

SAVE $130: As of Nov. 14, the Beats Solo 3 are on sale for $69 at Walmart. This deal saves you 65% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Solo 3 $69.00 at Walmart
$199.00 Save $130.00 Get Deal

There may be a few weeks left until the big event really kicks off, but Black Friday discounts have already started to appear at top retailers, including Walmart. You'll find deals across TVs, phones, and headphones, and we love this latest discount on the Beats Solo 3.

As of Nov. 14, these headphones are reduced to just $69 — saving you $130. This deal is currently only available in the rose gold color. Black was included in this deal too, but is currently sold out, so keep an eye out in case this situation changes.

SEE ALSO: Grab a discount on the Apple Pencil in Walmart's Black Friday sale

While not the latest in the Solo range (for that check out the Beats Solo 4), these are a great option, especially at this reduced price. They offer up to 40 hours of battery life, so you don't have to think about constantly charging. And when you do, the Fast Fuel function will mean that with just a five-minute charge you'll have another three hours of listening.

As is standard with this range, the Beats Solo 3 are designed with comfort in mind. They've got adjustable, cushioned ear cups to keep your head feeling comfy while you listen. They also fold up nicely, perfect for stowing in your bag and heading out the door. You can even use Siri through these headphones, meaning you can take calls and control music hands-free.

And of course, with Beats, you know you're getting second-to-none sound quality, with clear audio and a seriously punchy bass. And for under $70, we can't argue with that.

Grab a discount on the Apple Pencil in Walmart's Black Friday sale

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:12

SAVE $10: As of Nov. 14, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) is on sale at Walmart for $69. That's a 12% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil (USB-C) $69.00 at Walmart
$79.00 Save $10.00 Get Deal

Walmart's early Black Friday sale officially kicked off on Nov. 11, following retailers Target and BestBuy with the month-long deals. No longer are your discounts limited to one day of madness, you have the whole of November to shop for incredible discounts. Deals spread far and wide across all products, and if you're looking for a discounted iPad stylus, look no further.

As of Nov. 14, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) is on sale at Walmart for $69, saving you $10. This specific stylus charges via a USB-C cable and attaches to your devic magnetically for easy storage. It’s designed with pixel-perfect precision, low latency, and tilt sensitivity for a natural drawing and writing experience.

SEE ALSO: We track Apple deals year-round — Black Friday season is bringing some of the best prices we've seen

It weighs just 0.72 ounces, so it’s lightweight and comfortable to hold, as well as easy to carry around with you. It connects via Bluetooth and USB-C and requires an iPad running iPadOS 17.1 or later. Compatible iPad models include the iPad Mini A17 Pro, iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 3rd-6th generation), iPad Pro (11-inch, 1st-4th generation), iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (4th and 5th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation).

This is not the latest model in the Apple Pencil range, with the Pencil 2 and Pencil Pro both succeeding it. For a more advanced stylus, we recommend the Pro which boasts haptic feedback and magnetic charging.

Save $250 on this helpful Roomba robot vacuum and mop combo

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:08

SAVE $250: As of Nov. 14, the Roomba iRobot 15+ is on sale at Amazon for $299. That's a 46% markdown on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roomba Roomba iRobot 15+ $299.00 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $250.99 Get Deal

If a robot vacuum is on your wish list, you'll know all about Roomba. One of the top robot vacuum manufacturers on the market, these devices are both smart and handy. And with Black Friday sales approaching, there couldn't be a better time to treat yourself to fewer chores.

The Amazon Black Friday sales don't officially kick off for another week, but as of Nov. 14, the Roomba iRobot 15+ is reduced to just $299, saving you $250. It's also the lowest this product has been priced in five months.

SEE ALSO: Save over $300 on this impressive robot vacuum ahead of Black Friday

This powerful robot vacuum boasts a four-stage Cleaning System that picks up all types of dirt, whether it's everyday mess, stubborn stains, or pet hair stuck deep into the carpet. It uses Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes, which adjust to various floor types. It uses Imprint Smart Mapping to learn your home’s layout, so there's no need to manually map out a cleaning path. The Dirt Detect Technology also makes sure that there's enough cleaning done in high-traffic areas i.e. where you regularly walk or eat.

Like most premium robot vacuums, it empties its own bin into an enclosed bag that holds up to 60 days of debris, so you don’t have to think about emptying it for two months.

And let's not forget, this robot also has a built-in mop. The microfiber mop pad is perfect for wiping away dirt, dust, and footprints on hard floors.

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

The Hisense Canvas TV is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:05

SAVE OVER $200: As of Nov. 14, the Hisense 55-Inch Canvas TV is on sale for $798 at Amazon. That's 20% off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-Inch Canvas $798.00 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $201.99 Get Deal

A range of retailers have already kicked off their Black Friday campaigns, including the likes of Walmart and Best Buy. Amazon's Black Friday deals don't officially begin until Nov. 21, but there's still a range of active discounts that are worth your attention. TVs are a popular discounted product, and as the discounts pour in we can expect to see options across all brands and sizes. But for now, we love this deal on the stylish Hisense Canvas TV.

As of Nov. 14, you can find it on sale at Amazon for just $798. Not only are you saving 20%, but this is the lowest price it has ever been. This deal is exclusive to the 55-inch TV.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

The quality of this TV is next to none. With 4K QLED TV it delivers a range of sharp, vibrant colors. The big selling point is that when you’re not watching, the TV can be transformed into a digital gallery, displaying a single image or shuffling through a slideshow of your favorite photos or artwork. The hi-matte display makes the digital gallery look like the real thing, so prepare to trick your friends and family.

This deal is only available for a limited time, so head to Amazon now.

Are A.I. Clones the Future of Dating? I Tried Them for Myself.

NYT Technology - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00
A New York Times reporter tested a handful of chatbots to see if they could help improve his dating life. The results were decidedly mixed.

'The Piano Lesson' review: A stage adaptation makes powerful use of cinematic form

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00

Based on the August Wilson play about the complex weight of Black lineage, Malcolm Washington's feature-length directorial debut, The Piano Lesson, fittingly breaks a family curse. It's the third Wilson adaptation produced by the director's father, Hollywood superstar Denzel Washington — after Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and Fences, the latter of which Denzel also directed — but it's the first to fully succeed as cinema.

Set in the mid-1930s, the story follows a pair of siblings who come into conflict over what to do with a slavery-era heirloom: a piano that one of them hopes to sell in order to buy his own land, while the other tries to hold on to it. With a powerful cast at his disposal, Washington directs the hell out of Wilson's stage play, and transforms it into cinema by filling out its margins.

This does, at times, lead to a literalization of the show's looming metaphors (the play has fantastical elements that the film practically transforms into horror), and the movie often suffers from some awkward assembly. However, Washington's remarkable visual approach transcends the two predecessors in his father's ostensible trilogy. Rather than simply filming a stage show in three dimensions, as was the case with Ma Rainey's and Fences, Washington uses his camera to interrogate the confines of the text, and builds on Wilson's Pulitzer Prize–winning play in impeccable ways.

What is The Piano Lesson about? Credit: David Lee / Netflix

With a script by Washington and Virgil Williams, The Piano Lesson is a faithful adaptation of its 1987 source material, though the writers add bookends to take the narrative outside the confines of its central setting. Most of the story unfolds in the Pittsburgh home of widow Berniece Charles (Danielle Deadwyler), where she lives with her uncle, Doaker (Samuel L. Jackson), and adolescent daughter Maretha (Skylar Aleece Smith). However, the movie opens with a flashback to 1911, depicting a key event recounted later in both the film and the play: Doaker and Berniece's father stealing their family's precious piano from a former plantation in Mississippi.

This heist takes place on the Fourth of July, a fleeting detail in Wilson's text that Washington turns into an opportunity for deeper reflection. Fireworks paint the characters in washes of red, white and blue, forcing consideration of what "freedom" really means, in a story where financial and emotional liberation are constantly at stake. Back in the '30s, the financial constraints of the Great Depression leads Berniece's brother Boy Willie — played by the director's brother and Tenet star John David Washington — to her doorstep, accompanied by his friend Lymon (Ray Fisher). The duo has made their way to Pittsburgh to sell watermelons off the back of their truck so Boy Willie can purchase a plot of land, but gathering the money would also require him to sell the piano his father stole. It's an object to which Berniece still clings even though she doesn't play it, a contradiction Deadwyler sells convincingly by turning the quiet moments between her dialogue into moments of intense personal dilemma.

This piano is special, for carved into its body — by Berniece and Boy Willie's great grandfather, an enslaved woodworker — are the faces of enslaved relatives who were sold to acquire the instrument, alongside depictions of their family's history. Part keepsake and part painful albatross, the piano remains central to several scenes and conversations that play out over a number of days, as Boy Willie and Lymon stick around in the hopes of convincing Berniece to give it up.

Along the way, numerous characters with whom the family shares a history come and go from Berniece's household, resulting in scenes of catching up, reminiscing, and even arguing, as Washington finds unexpected ways to explore Wilson's rhythmic dialogue.

The Piano Lesson adapts the famous stage play with flair. Credit: David Lee / Netflix

Like any good stage-to-screen translation, The Piano Lesson retains room for its actors to play. As soon as any two of them interact — with initial excitement that eventually gives way to more complex feelings — entire histories between them are clarified through the smallest of gestures. Washington doesn't mess with this formula, born of Wilson's thoughtful writing, and instead compliments it by allowing his cast to craft spontaneous performances.

As Boy Willie, John David Washington's rapid-fire dialogue lays track immediately before the charging locomotive that is the movie's plot, but he constantly laces his heavy exposition with infectious effervescence. When he finally slows down for more difficult dramatic scenes, moments of silence envelop the soundscape, and he practically warps the movie's texture around him, making its drama almost suffocating. All the while, the camera follows him through the lower floor of Berniece's home, between the kitchen and the living room, as he chews the scenery while bringing light and life to the setting. He does so via friendly conversations with Doaker and his other uncle, Wining Boy (Michael Potts) — a once-famous musical artist dealing with disappointment — and via more adversarial verbal tussles with the local reverend, Avery Brown (Corey Hawkins), who's smitten with his sister.

As a director, Washington unearths the intimacy of each conversation by either gradually circling around the characters and capturing their collective energy, or by holding on them in close-ups for long periods — and in unexpected moments. Rather than keeping the lens trained on whoever's speaking, he diverts our attention to reaction shots, building a more interpersonal story in the process, as characters respond to each other's recollections or to new information.

There is, however, a slight downside to just how in tune Washington is with his performers. The movie's moment-to-moment construction suffers on occasion; in order to capture the actors' spontaneity and their performances at length, shots feel inelegantly stitched together, with objects and bodies obscuring enough of the frame that it's momentarily distracting. The rhythm of Wilson's words is maintained, but the rhythm of the editorial cuts feels strange in the process; movement and blocking feels directionally correct, but the cuts from one character to the next become jarring in the process. Most viewers may not notice some of these individual instances, but the result is a compounding effect that subtly unsettles the audience.

However, the movie swerves into phantasmagorical territory often enough that these unsettling breaks in visual melody end up feeling part and parcel of its approach. A ghost happens to be haunting Berniece, or so she claims. Its historical meaning grows increasingly clear as the dialogue reveals more about the family's history, and in the meantime, Washington's horror-inspired flourishes create intrigue. Although he grants the play's invisible spirits corporeal form, cinematographer Mike Gioulakis obfuscates them in shadow for just long enough that they still remain mysterious. The film's use of light is often marvelous, veering between stage-like spotlights emanating from fixtures overhead, to warm glows that don't just softly illuminate the actors' faces but work in tandem with the echoes of the sound design to draw out internal thought from their performances. The family's legacy is constantly on the tip of Wilson's tongue, and Washington further elucidates this subtext through the characters' self-reflections, which attempt to draw out internal thought in moments of deep self-reflection on the family's legacy.

The Piano Lesson wrestles with the past. Credit: David Lee / Netflix

The eponymous piano has an enormous presence throughout the film, whether as a central element of production design — characters often lean on it or inspect it as they speak — or even as a lurking entity in the background and out of focus, lying in wait to cause a rift between the siblings. It is, at once, a reminder of the demonic white supremacy that defined their family's lives, as well as an embodiment of the continued resilience of those very same people.

In effect, the piano embodies the weight of history for the Charles family as Black Americans, for whom slavery is only two or three generations removed. They occasionally speak of this burden, but the dialogue is enhanced by the movie's use of flashbacks to decades before. As Doaker tells the story of the piano, what he's really recalling are the recollections of other characters — or recollections of recollections — since he hadn't been born until after slavery was abolished. And yet, the edit ties his words to this flashback footage as though we were witnessing his own memories.

The flashbacks in question involve fleeting, expressionistic images, both of woodworking and of enslaved people glancing at the camera, à la Barry Jenkins' The Underground Railroad. In the process, Doaker and the Charles family become a sort of conduit between the audience and the film, the play, the Depression-era setting — during which monetary survival was a topic on everyone's tongue — and eventually, the family's ancestors, whose lives have been preserved in wood.

More importantly, by expanding on Wilson's text though cinematic form, Washington more closely connects each character to the spiritual quandary the piano represents. Selling it would mean moving forward, as Boy Willie's ancestors would have hoped for him, and it would also mean putting generations of pain behind him. However, for Berniece, it would also mean forgetting the past. These opposing forces are inextricably linked in the consciousness of Black America, and the movie brings them to light in stunning dramatic form, through a film that makes living room chats feel like enormous proclamations that echo through history.

Combining the best of stage and screen, The Piano Lesson finds deft balance between overt melodrama and dazzling aesthetic flourishes. Through light and sound that guide and shift alongside the story, Berniece's home — and the film as a whole — come to life, transforming the screen into a living stage where practically any emotion can be expressed. 

The Piano Lesson is currently in select theaters. It will debut on Netflix Nov. 22.

Webb telescope scientists forced to reckon with enormous galaxy outliers

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00

Modern astronomers have speculated that, in the beginning, all galaxies formed in large halos of dark matter, a mysterious-yet-abundant substance that doesn't shine or interact with light.

These halos would have captured gas into gravitationally bound structures, turning about 20 percent of that gas into galaxy-residing stars. 

But new research from the James Webb Space Telescope, a collaboration of NASA and its European and Canadian counterparts, is forcing scientists to rethink how galaxies formed in the early universe. 

A team has discovered three ultra-massive galaxies near the beginning of time, seemingly contradicting the notion that the first space neighborhoods had to have been built rather clumsily. The scientists have referred to the ancient mammoth structures as "Red Monsters" because their high dust content makes them appear extremely red in Webb images, displayed at the top of this story.

The galaxies, each as vast as the Milky Way, are baffling because most scientific models for galaxy evolution suggest processes that would have been slow and inefficient, said Stijn Wuyts, an astronomer from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom.

"Yet somehow these Red Monsters appear to have swiftly evaded most of these hurdles," he said in a statement.

SEE ALSO: Astronomers just found a galaxy way too advanced for its time Scientists are using the James Webb Space Telescope to study how galaxies were built a few hundred million years after the Big Bang. Credit: NASA GSFC / CIL / Adriana Manrique Gutierrez illustration

The trio of galaxies featured in the paper, published in the journal Nature on Wednesday, came together within the first billion years after the Big Bang, when the universe was still a toddler. Up until recently, theorists have believed a galaxy as large and advanced as the Milky Way would require many billions of years of evolution. The universe is estimated to be 13.8 billion years old. 

The study is just the latest bit of mounting evidence to suggest that cosmologists have some work to do to better understand galaxies. Last month a separate team of scientists reported the discovery of REBELS-25, a galaxy that existed when the universe was only 700 million years old, yet is strikingly similar to the Milky Way. 

Those researchers used the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array, or ALMA, an observatory in Chile’s Atacama Desert, for their research. The structure, as described in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, could be the most distant rotating disk galaxy found so far. 

Cosmologists may have to rethink galaxy evolution theories as more mature and orderly galaxies are found in the early universe. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / Joseph Olmsted (STScI) illustration

In the new Nature study, scientists actually analyzed a sample of 36 massive dust-obscured galaxies. Though most of them didn't conflict with scientific models, the three ultra-massive standouts were found churning out stars nearly two times more efficiently — and thus faster — than smaller galaxies of the same period. 

"Already in its first few years of operation, JWST has thrown us a couple of curveballs," Wuyts said. "In more ways than one, it has shown us that some galaxies mature rapidly during the first chapters of cosmic history."

How to watch Commanders vs. Eagles online for free

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Live stream Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video.

Thursday Night Football returns with Week 11 action, which kicks off with an NFC East showdown between the two teams battling for the top spot: the Washington Commanders and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles are 7-2 and the Commanders are 7-3.

The Eagles are coming off a commanding win over fellow division-rival, the Dallas Cowboys. The Commanders are coming off a close loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Philadelphia could gain ground with a win, or the Commanders could take the lead in the division. The Eagles are the favorite to win.

When is Commanders vs. Eagles?

Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles takes place at 8:15 p.m. ET on Nov. 14. The two teams will face off at Lincoln Financial Stadium in Philadelphia.

Al Michaels is expected to do the play-by-play, Kirk Herbstreit is the analyst, and Kaylee Hartung will be the sideline reporter.

How to stream Commanders vs. Eagles for free

Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles is available to live stream on Prime Video in the U.S., but anyone can watch this game for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime (not to mention other Thursday Night Football fixtures).

If you're already a member, or have already used the 30-day trial, Prime Video subscriptions start at $8.99 per month.

Best streaming services for Commanders vs. Eagles

Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles will be aired locally on FOX in both the Washington and Philadelphia markets. It may be available in some other markets, but NFL games are subject to local blackouts.

If you do not have a cable package in those markets, you have options. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Commanders vs. Eagles on local FOX networks.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling TV Sports Plan Get Deal

Sling TV offers its Orange & Blue package of 48 channels at $55 per month that would serve your needs for locally available NFL games. Sign up to enjoy a first-month discounted rate of $27.50.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

For in-market games: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Again, Commanders vs. Eagles is subject to local blackouts. It is available nationally on Prime Video.

How to watch Commanders vs. Eagles from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of the NFL from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Commanders vs. Eagles from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

  4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

  5. Watch Commanders vs. Eagles from anywhere in the world

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

Don't miss this specced-out MacBook Pro at an extremely gift-friendly price

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Get a Grade-A refurbished MacBook Pro 13.3" (2019) with Touch Bar, i7 processor, and 1TB SSD for just $599.99 (reg. $2,299) while stock is available.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 13.3" (2019) Touch Bar i7 2.8GHz 16GB RAM 1TB SSD - Space Gray (Refurbished) $599.99 at the Mashable Shop
$2,299.00 Save $1,699.01 Get Deal

Unwrapping a MacBook Pro this holiday season doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. Here’s the scoop on a deal that’s not just tech-smart but wallet-friendly, too. A grade-A refurbished Apple MacBook Pro 13.3"  from 2019 is on sale at the Mashable Shop for only $599.99 (regularly $2,299). That means you get the iconic power and elegance of a MacBook Pro at a decidedly low price.

Why is this such a standout? For starters, the 13.3-inch Retina display was made to bring every image and video to life with vibrant colors and True Tone technology, making it ideal for creative projects, movie marathons, or simply scrolling through photos.

The Touch Bar and Touch ID add an extra layer of convenience, giving you shortcuts to your favorite tools and secure, one-touch logins. And with four Thunderbolt 3 ports, connecting to multiple accessories can be super simple.

The impressive details make this MacBook Pro a multitasking powerhouse for this price point. The 2.8GHz Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM ensure smooth, fast performance whether you’re video editing, coding, or just web browsing with dozens of tabs open. Plus, the 1TB SSD means you (or your giftee) will have plenty of space for work files or personal projects, with super-fast loading times.

As a grade-A refurbished model, this MacBook Pro has minimal (if any) signs of wear, delivering a near-mint experience at a fraction of the original price.

Don't miss catching this deep discount on a 1TB SSD MacBook Pro while supplies are still available.

Pick up the Grade-A refurbished MacBook Pro 13.3" (2019) with Touch Bar for just $599.99 (reg. $2,299).

Apple MacBook Pro 13.3" (2019) Touch Bar i7 2.8GHz 16GB RAM 1TB SSD - Space Gray (Refurbished) - $599.99 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

How to watch 'Blink Twice': When is Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut streaming?

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00
The best deals to watch 'Blink Twice' at a glance: BEST FOR LONG-TERM VIEWING MGM+ annual subscription $58.99 per year (save $24.89) Get Deal BEST FOR NEWBIES MGM+ trial Free for 7 days, then $6.99 per month Get Deal BEST DEAL OVERALL MGM+ via Sling $5 per month (save $1.99 per month) Get Deal BEST NON-STREAMING OPTION Rent 'Blink Twice' for 30 days $5.99 Get Deal

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut is making waves. And we expect even more ripples to erupt once the twisted thriller makes its streaming debut this month.

Blink Twice stars a sensational cast, including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, Alia Shawkat, Christian Slater, Adria Arjona, Simon Rex, Haley Joel Osment, Geena Davis, and Kyle MacLachlan. Mashable's film editor, Kristy Puchko, writes, "Together, they deliver a gnarly thriller about power, betrayal, and desire that's sure to leave audiences rattled, yet wearing a crooked grin."

Here's everything you need to know about how to watch Blink Twice at home, including its official streaming date and the best ways to save money on a streaming subscription.

What is Blink Twice about?

Blink Twice follows cocktail waitress Frida (Naomi Ackie) who meets dashing tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) at a fundraising gala and is invited to join him and his friends on a vacation at his private island. When her bestie Jess (Alia Shawkat), who accompanies her on the trip, goes missing, the other guests don't remember her being there at all. What follows is an investigation that leads to "surprising alliances, dark conspiracies, and heart-wrenching revelations."

Check out the trailer below:

Is Blink Twice worth watching?

Despite a slow theatrical release, grossing about $46.3 million against a $20 million production budget, Blink Twice opened to largely positive reviews. That just goes to show that box office numbers don't tell the whole story. You could have a massive theatrical release, but if audiences don't enjoy it, what's the point?

With a 75 percent critic rating and 70 percent audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Blink Twice is certainly worth a watch. Puchko pointed out that its plot and aesthetic details are influenced by 2019's Ready or Not and there are visual nods to I Spit on Your Grave. "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."

She ultimately concludes: "Blink Twice is a knockout."

Read our full review of Blink Twice.

How to watch Blink Twice at home Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

Less than a month after its theatrical debut, Blink Twice officially made its video-on-demand debut on sites like Prime Video and Fandango at Home (Vudu). You can rent it from any of the retailers below for 30 days. Just remember: Once you start watching a rental, you'll only have 48 hours to finish before you lose access.

You're also able to purchase the film from the same retailers and add it to your digital library. If you prefer to stream the film instead, keep reading to learn more.

As of Sept. 17, you can rent the film at the following retailers:

Is Blink Twice streaming?

Blink Twice is an Amazon MGM Studios film, so it will make its streaming debut on MGM+ on Nov. 21. MGM's own streaming service (formerly EPIX) is owned by Amazon and starts at $6.99 per month. The film will likely follow a similar streaming schedule as fellow Amazon MGM Studios film Challengers, which debuted on MGM+ then pivoted to Prime Video about two months later. If you don't mind waiting, there's a good chance Blink Twice will end up streaming on Prime Video in January.

Can I get MGM+ for free?

If you're new to MGM+, you can enjoy the streaming service for free for a week through MGM+ directly or as an add-on via Prime Video. If you're a Prime member and want to condense your streaming services (and future payments) to one place, the add-on is a great option. If you prefer to keep things separate, you're better off signing up through MGM+ directly. Either way, if you align your seven-day trial to the release of Blink Twice, you should be able to stream it for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: MGM+ MGM+ Free 7-day trial, then $6.99 per month Watch Now Best MGM+ streaming dealsMGM+ annual subscription

As a relatively unknown streaming service compared to, say, Prime Video or Netflix, MGM+ isn't exactly brimming with great deal options. All hope isn't lost, though. If you want to save a little cash, your best option is to sign up for the annual subscription versus the monthly subscription. You'll save 30% by paying for a year upfront, which is a pretty big savings compared to annual subscriptions from other streamers.

Opens in a new window Credit: MGM+ MGM+ annual subscription $58.99 per year (save $24.89) Get Deal Sign up for MGM+ via Sling TV

If you'd rather just sign up for a single month and call it quits, subscribing to MGM+ through Sling TV can save you $1.99. No need to pay for the base plan of Sling. Just head over to the MGM landing page on Sling's website and you can sign up for only $5 per month. If you do want to sign up for a base package through Sling (Orange or Blue), you can even score a free month of MGM+.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sling MGM+ via Sling TV $5 per month (save $1.99 per month) Get Deal

Get bite-size summaries of all the best books with Headway Premium for just $60

Mashable - Thu, 11/14/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Save 77% on Headway, an app that summarizes books into 15-minute chunks, before discounted codes sell out. 

Opens in a new window Credit: GTHW App Limited Headway Premium: Lifetime Subscription $59.99
$299.95 Save $239.96 Get Deal

Is reading trendy? Well, yes — if TikTok’s growing BookTok community and Facebook book club groups have anything to say. If you want to join the conversation but can’t commit to reading full-length books, this is a clever solution.

Headway’s book summary app condenses what would normally be several hours of reading into only 15 minutes. While you don’t get access to the whole book, you’ll get its key ideas and insights. Get lifetime access here for $69.99 (reg. $299.95) — you won’t find a lower price anywhere else, though only 75 codes are currently in stock.

Use Headway to fight FOMO

How many times have you seen someone share a book online and thought, ‘I should read that,’ but you low-key knew you’d never actually get around to it? Headway changes your mentality completely, since you now only need 15 minutes to read or listen to its summary.

As you listen and rate summaries, the app learns what you like or dislike. From that, you’ll get personalized book recommendations, just like you’re in a real book club. 

Explore over 1,500 nonfiction book summaries and some fiction ones, too. There’ll be something new to check out whenever you open the app. You’ll recognize a lot of these titles from your TBR: 

  • Atomic Habits

  • Total Recall (Arnold Schwarzenegger’s autobiography)

  • The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

  • To Kill a Mockingbird

  • Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff … and It’s All Small Stuff

The Headway app also motivates you to come back with a daily learning streak, trophies and achievements, and challenges. You might take a 14-day Self-Confidence challenge, listen to the pre-selected books each day, and earn three trophies by the end. 

While codes last, get a Headway lifetime subscription for $59.99 (reg. $299.95). Less than 75 codes remain at this price.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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