Feed aggregator

By now, you've probably heard about users fleeing Elon Musk's X. Yes, there have been a few other moments over the years since Musk acquired then-Twitter when users decided to leave — there was even at least one attempt to create an alternative Twitter before ownership by Musk was even seen as a possibility.

But this time the exodus appears to be significantly bigger. Following the 2024 presidential election results and Musk's support for President-elect Donald Trump, users have been deactivating en masse.

SEE ALSO: Bluesky goes down amid exodus from Elon Musk's X / Twitter

And this time, it appears most everyone has settled on one particular X alternative: Bluesky.

Bluesky has a lot in common with X. It's a similar public town square type microblogging-style platform. In fact, before Musk took over then-Twitter, it received an investment from the company. Twitter co-founder and former CEO Jack Dorsey even sat on Bluesky's board up until earlier this year.

Bluesky has gained more than 100,000 new sign ups per day since the U.S. election on Nov. 5. It now has over 15 million users. It's enjoyed a prolonged stay on the very top of Apple's App Store charts as well.

Ready to join? Here's how to get started on Bluesky:

How to sign up for Bluesky

Not too long ago, Bluesky was invite-only. New users could only join the platform if they received an invitation from an existing user.

That's not the case anymore. Anyone can sign up for Bluesky.

Credit: Bluesky

To sign up, simply go to bsky.app and click the Sign Up button. You'll notice that all the usual input fields found when signing up for any other social media platform are there such as email, password, and birthday.

Credit: Bluesky

However, there is one thing that's different: Hosting provider. Basically, Bluesky allows those who are more tech-savvy to host their own version of Bluesky, much like how alternative social media platform Mastodon has "instances." However, most users just don't have to worry about this. It will not affect their experience at all. Just keep Bluesky Social as your hosting provider.

Credit: Bluesky

On the next page, users will be able to pick their username. Choose any available name and Bluesky will then add ".bsky.social" to the end of it. Why? Because Bluesky allows users to use their own website domain as their handle. For example, if you own YourName.com, your Bluesky handle could be "@YourName.com" on the platform. Once again, this is not necessary to get the full Bluesky experience. Most users will just go by @YourName.bsky.social.

From there, Bluesky will give you the option to upload an avatar and pick topics of interest so that the platform can best suggest accounts to follow.

How to get started on Bluesky

Congratulations, you're in. Your Bluesky account is all setup and now you can get started.

You'll notice that Bluesky looks a lot like Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter. There's a Discover feed which is basically the For You feed with suggested posts and content. There's a Following feed, which only includes posts from other Bluesky users that you follow.

Credit: Bluesky

On the left hand side menu, there's a Profile tab for your own account and a Notifications tab that shows who interacted and replied to your posts. The Chat tab is basically the equivalent of Direct Messages.

Since you're new to Bluesky, you're going to want to start off by following some accounts. Using the Search tab, you can find Suggested accounts recommended by the platform based on your interests. You can also search for specific people to see if they're also on Bluesky. If you're coming from Musk's X, there's a third-party Chrome extension called Sky Follower Bridge that can help you locate the accounts you follow on that platform that also have an account on Bluesky.

Probably the most unique aspect of Bluesky is the pair of related features: Lists and Feeds. You might be thinking that Bluesky's Lists feature is a bit like Twitter Lists, however, the Lists feature is much more integral to how Bluesky works than that. 

Lists are a collection of accounts that can be followed, muted, or blocked in bulk. For example, users can create a list of Bluesky users that they think all other users interested in a certain topic or hobby should follow. Other users can then easily follow that entire list of users. On the flip side, Bluesky users have also compiled lists of accounts that post hateful or extremist content. Users can easily block all the users on that List and not see any of those account's content show up on their feed.

Credit: Bluesky

Feeds on the other hand are not lists of accounts, but curated feeds. Think of Feeds as customized For You pages. There are Feeds for just certain topics like Science or Art, there are feeds with content just for specific types of accounts, and then there are algorithmically based custom feeds that depend on what's currently popular on the site. By following a feed, you add a brand new tab on your main timeline to keep up with alongside your Discover and Following feed.

Credit: Bluesky

But, it gets even easier actually. Bluesky recently launched a new feature called "Starter Packs" which basically recommends users and feeds so you can get started. Other users can also curate their own Starter Packs to help their new followers find additional accounts to follow too. Just go to your account's profile page and click the Starter Packs tab to get started.

Ready to post

This may all sound a bit much, but it's really not. Just remember, you had to get started somewhere on X and other social media platforms to. And if you've made it this far, you're ready to post. This is the part that's really reminiscent of Twitter.

Credit: Bluesky

Posts on Bluesky are limited to 300 characters. Users can post photos and .gifs as well. Bluesky also recently added video, which can be posted as long as the clip is 60 seconds or less.

Users can like content by clicking the heart icon. They can also repost content as well as quote posts.

And there you go. That's all the Bluesky basics. Now there's no excuse to not give an alternative to Musk's X a try.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for November 15 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 15 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Dress for lunch

These words make for a healthier meal.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are types of vegetables.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is SaladGreens.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for November 15

• Romaine

• Kale

• Iceberg

• Watercress

• Radicchio

• SaladGreens

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for November 15's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 15 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Openings that let something loose

• Green: Used to construct text

• Blue: Produces sound when used

• Purple: Ways we perceive or use time

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Fissure

• Green: Elements of Writing

• Blue: Instruments You Blow Into

• Purple: ___ of Time

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #523 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Fissure: CRACK, HOLE, LEAK, PUNCTURE

• Elements of writing: LETTER, PHRASE, SENTENCE, WORD

• Instruments You Blow Into: JUG, PIPE, RECORDER, WHISTLE

• ___ of time: NICK, PASSAGE, SANDS, WASTE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15

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

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

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

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for November 15's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for November 15 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 15 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Something that seems in poor taste.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter T.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

TACKY.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for November 15 SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Friday, November 15, 2024:

Across____ on the side of caution

• The answer is Err.

Protect

• The answer is Guard.

Not affiliated with a major company

• The answer is Indie.

Motionless

• The answer is Still.

Under the weather

• The answer is Ill.

DownEmblematic of Zeus and Athena

• The answer is Egis.

Litter's littlest

• The answer is Runt.

Pie cuts, essentially

• The answer is Radii.

Small stream

• The answer is Rill.

Farmer's place, in song

• The answer is Dell.

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

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

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

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

SAVE $400: As of Nov. 15, the ASUS TUF 15.6-inch gaming laptop - fitted with 16GB RAM, RTX 4070 graphics, and a 1TB SSD - is on sale for $999.99 in Best Buy's early Black Friday sale. This is $400 off its list price of $1,399.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS TUF 15.6-inch Gaming Laptop - Intel Core i7 with 16GB Memory - NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 - 1TB SSD - Mecha Grey $999.99 at Best Buy
$1,399.99 Save $400.00 Get Deal

While the official day isn't until November 29, Black Friday deals have been dropping left and right at top retailers over the past few weeks in anticipation of the sale event. Best Buy, in particular, has plenty available already, from doorbuster deals every Friday to a selection of early Black Friday offerings. Included in their early deals is a fantastic discount on the ASUS TUF gaming laptop, which is worth checking out if you've been looking to make the jump into PC gaming.

Best Buy currently has the ASUS TUF 15.6-inch gaming laptop marked down to $999.99 as part of its early Black Friday deals. This saves you $400 off its list price of $1,399.99, which is a fantastic discount. It's even more worth it given the specs of this laptop.

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

This gaming laptop comes fitted with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, a massive 1TB SSD, and a powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card to tackle your favorite games with ease. Its large 15.6-inch display also offers 1920x1080 Full HD resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate. And all of this is packed into a sleek design that's perfect for taking on the go.

Deals like this don't come around very often, so don't miss out on this early Black Friday deal on the ASUS TUF 15.6-inch gaming laptop at Best Buy.

Best Buy's not the only place offering some early Black Friday discounts. Walmart and Target are holding their own sales throughout the month in the lead-up to the big shopping event that are worth checking out. Even Amazon has plenty planned for Black Friday, as they recently revealed when their big sales kick off this month. Make sure to mark your calendar so you don't miss out on this season of savings.

The best Windows laptops run an impressive gamut, from Qualcomm-powered workhorses that refuse to die to dual-display stunners and subtle gaming stations. (Some of them, dare we say, will tempt even the most devoted Apple Macbook disciples.) Users who need a new laptop for everyday productivity, creativity, or entertainment have no shortage of options. And that's for better or worse.

SEE ALSO: The best laptops of 2024, tested and approved by Mashable staff

To help you pick out your next PC from the crowded Windows market, we've broken out our best laptops rundown into this separate guide to the best Windows machines of 2024. All of these laptops have been thoroughly hands-on tested by members of the Mashable team for performance and build quality, and we stand by their value — or at least think they're worth finding on sale.

Our top picks

As of Nov. 2024, Mashable's favorite Windows laptop is the 13-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, an elegant workhorse powered by the impressive Snapdragon X Elite processor. It's got high-end power, a premium design, interesting AI features, and an incredible battery life. It's still the longest-lasting laptop we've ever reviewed: Even the brand-new M4 MacBooks can't keep up.

For almost as much Snapdragon oomph at a lower price point, opt for the HP Omnibook X 14, the best mid-range Windows laptop. It's not much to look at, but it's plenty power-efficient and equipped with a great keyboard. It also comes with the same AI tools as the Surface Laptop 7. Those on an even tighter budget should look into the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, a pretty ultraportable for everyday tasks.

SEE ALSO: I've tested over 59 laptops: this is the best laptop of 2024

The Lenovo Yoga 9i (Gen 9) is the best 2-in-1 laptop we've tried, earning praise from our reviewer for its gorgeous 2.8K OLED touchscreen, its peppy (albeit piping-hot) CPU, and its clear Bowers & Wilkins soundbar. For a twist on the hybrid form factor, we also highly recommend the beautiful Asus Zenbook Duo. We've got additional picks for specialty users — the Alienware m16 R2 is the best gaming laptop we've tested thus far, and the Acer Swift X 14 is our go-to Windows laptop for photo and video editing.

Where to find Black Friday deals on Windows laptops

Black Friday is the best time to buy a new laptop if you don't want to pay full price. Tons of machines will drop to new or year-round lows ahead of the holidays (and the Consumer Electronics Show in January, when manufacturers introduce their next-gen hardware).

Black Friday is unusually late in 2024 (Nov. 29), so brands like HP, Lenovo, and Dell are killing time with extended sales that wannabe upgraders should follow closely throughout the month. Sometimes, shopping smart means not waiting until Black Friday proper to peruse your options — and taking advantage of holiday price-match policies if need be.

SEE ALSO: When do Black Friday sales start? Be on the lookout for early holiday deals.

Among major retailers, expect Best Buy to offer deals on the widest variety of Windows laptops this season. (If we're lucky, that includes its huge lineup of Copilot+ PCs.) Amazon tends to stick to deals on mid-range laptops from brands like LG and Samsung and gaming PCs by Asus, Acer, and MSI, while Walmart is the go-to for bargains on previous-gen gaming laptops.

That's a lot to keep track of, so be sure to bookmark our guide to the best Black Friday laptop deals if you don't have the bandwidth to pore over every markdown yourself. In the meantime, read on to learn more about the best Windows models that should make your shopping shortlist.

FYI: We've listed the pricing and specs of our testing units, which may not apply to each laptop's base model.

It's a tale as old as time: Scientist finds a random rock in a drawer; a century later, it helps humanity figure out when liquid water was on Mars.

Sarcasm aside, the strange history of the Lafayette meteorite, a space rock at Purdue University, may be as fascinating as the new research it has helped produce. Within the meteorite are minerals known to have formed through interactions with water. Geologists have now dated those minerals to just 742 million years ago — much more recently than many estimates of when oceans and rivers flowed on the Red Planet. 

"We have demonstrated a robust way to date alteration minerals in meteorites that can be applied to other meteorites and planetary bodies to understand when liquid water might have been present," said Marissa Tremblay, an assistant professor at Purdue, in a statement. 

SEE ALSO: Past life on Mars? Here's what new NASA evidence points to. An artist interprets what Gale crater on Mars might have looked like during one of its ancient, wet periods. Credit: NASA illustration

Despite the team's success in dating the water-rock interaction, the researchers don't think Mars was teeming with water at that time in history. Rather, they suspect the water came from permafrost melt, perhaps caused by molten rock moving through the planet's crust. The study appears in the Geochemical Perspectives Letters.

This isn't the first time scientists have theorized such a climate scenario for ancient Mars. Computer modeling of the planet, based on the presence of certain minerals and rock formations, has led scientists down this path before, and NASA announced findings just last month that further bolstered the idea: The Curiosity rover on Mars, which is exploring long-dried rivers and gullies, took isotope measurements from rocks that suggest they probably formed in transient liquid water — that is, water that comes from melted ice. 

Earth's inventory of meteorites from Mars is tiny: Less than 400 are known to hail from the Red Planet. Even smaller is the number of nakhlites, one of the three categories of Martian meteorites, of which there are only 32 recognized samples, according to The Meteoritical Society. The Lafayette meteorite is one of those precious 32. 

NASA's Curiosity rover snaps a selfie image on lower Mount Sharp in Gale crater in August 2015. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / MSSS

Scientists think nakhlites like Lafayette are bits of rubble that ensued from a massive collision on Mars about 11 million years ago. Chunks of Mars then blasted into space, with some eventually reaching Earth. 

But researchers aren't just analyzing the rock for clues about Martian history. They're also trying to crack the case of how Lafayette wound up in a drawer at Purdue University in the first place. 

A separate recent study used imaginative forensics to narrow down when the rock landed in Indiana and who could have discovered it more than 100 years ago. Áine O'Brien, a researcher at the University of Glasgow in the United Kingdom, had crushed a tiny sample of the meteorite in 2019, hoping to find organic molecules.

Among her findings was an odd Earthly contaminant, deoxynivalenol, aka vomitoxin. This metabolite is found in a fungus that sometimes overtakes grain crops. It's especially known for making pigs puke.

After consulting with Purdue botanists, O'Brien learned that the area had two bouts of the crop disease in 1919 and 1927, a few years before the rock was rediscovered at the university in 1931. 

Harvey Nininger, who identified the rock as a Martian meteorite, published a paper in Popular Astronomy in 1935, discussing the rock's unclear provenance. He recounted an anecdote that a Black man had witnessed the fall from a few feet away while fishing at a pond. The man scooped it out of the mud and later brought it to the university, where he was a student. Nininger, however, did not know who he was and had no way to substantiate the story. 

It's possible diseased crop dust from nearby farms could have made it into the water where the rock had plopped. O'Brien's team then checked records on fireball sightings, finding reports from northern Indiana on Nov. 26, 1919, and another in 1927, when the Tilden meteorite dropped in Illinois. 

One of these four Black students may have discovered the Lafayette meteorite. Clockwise from top left: Hermanze Edwin Fauntleroy, Clinton Edward Shaw, Julius Lee Morgan, and Clyde Silance. Credit: Purdue University

As for who the mystery student was, O'Brien's team narrowed the possible suspects to four people, based on Black student enrollment from those two years: Julius Lee Morgan, Clinton Edward Shaw, Hermanze Edwin Fauntleroy, and Clyde Silance.

Whoever found this rare specimen deserves gratitude, scientists say. Meteorites quickly lose their research value after exposure to Earth's environment. It doesn't take long before nature wears away the rock's fusion crust. The Lafayette meteorite must have been found and protected immediately, given its pristine condition. 

"I'm proud that, a century after it reached Earth, we're finally able to reconstruct the circumstances of its landing," O'Brien said in a statement, "and get closer than we've ever been to giving credit to the Black student who found it."

TVs being on sale for Black Friday isn't unique to any one retailer. Sure, that's news to no one. The less-known intel is that, while there will be a handful of price-matched deals on identical models at all of the big competing stores, each store also has a certain type of TV that they seem to really hone in on when it comes to Black Friday discounts.

Walmart's wheelhouse is simply the cheapest 4K TV possible at any given size between 50 inches and 75 inches. If you see Amazon and Best Buy plateauing at a certain sale price for a certain size (for instance, maybe the cheapest they're seemingly able to go for a 50-incher is $199.99), it's pretty safe to assume that Walmart will have an option that slightly beats both of those sale prices. This highly competitive vibe is the main reason why TV deals are typically better on Black Friday than on Amazon Prime Day.

SEE ALSO: Just announced: Amazon finally dropped its Black Friday sale dates

Because Walmart likes to release its most jaw-dropping TV deals as a handful of pre-meditated doorbusters, more shoppers will be waiting in the wings for the clock to strike a certain time (rather than calmly perusing several pages of TV deals) — which means TVs selling out is more likely and time is of the essence.

One way to make sure you get first dibs on any of Walmart's big Black Friday drops is by becoming a Walmart+ member. Paid Walmart+ members get early access to Walmart deals, often for several hours before the sale officially goes live to the public. Through Dec. 2, new, expired, monthly, and current Walmart+ trial members can sign up for an annual Walmart+ membership for $49 — 50% off the regular $98 a year that Walmart+ typically costs.

Along with this early access, Walmart+ members also get perks like a free Paramount+ subscription; 10 cents per gallon fuel savings at Exxon, Mobil, Walmart, and Murphy; Walmart Cash through Expedia; free shipping from your store; free online shipping with no order minimum; and more.

We're tracking all of Walmart's best TV deals throughout the Black Friday season below and will update the list as new ones drop — or as models sell out. On top of the ultra budget-friendly options we gushed about earlier, Walmart also has some good deals on premium models from Samsung and LG.

Note: Occasionally, a Walmart TV doorbuster will come in the form of a TV that's making its debut at a sale price rather than appearing as a clear-cut dollar discount off of an MSRP. Walmart will tag these drops as a "Special Buy" so shoppers know this is still a great price even if there's no previous list price crossed out to indicate a sale. To get an idea of what that size of TV is going for at other retailers, check out our general coverage of Black Friday TV deals which includes Amazon and Best Buy.

Best early Black Friday TV deal at Walmart Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Our pick: Hisense 50-inch R6 4K TV $138.00 at Walmart
$238.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Exhibit A showcasing Walmart's ability to offer the cheapest version of pretty much any size TV. A $138 50-inch 4K TV may or may not sound like a good deal to the average person who doesn't memorize TV prices for a living, but the only context you need is, well, the TV deals at other retailers. The cheapest 50-inch TVs at Amazon and Best Buy as of mid-November are $199.99 (a Roku model and a Pioneer model), so Walmart having this 50-inch Hisense model for an extra $60 less than those speaks for itself.

More early Black Friday TV deals at Walmart

• LG 50-inch 75 Series QNED 4K TV — $398 $596.99 (save $198.99)

• Samsung 55-inch Q60DB QLED 4K TV — $498 $698 (save $200)

• LG 55-inch B3 Series OLED 4K TV — $798 $1,699.99 (save $901.99)

• LG 65-inch UQ7070 4K TV — $398 $476 (save $78)

• Samsung 65-inch Q60DB QLED 4K TV — $698 $898 (save $200)

• LG 65-inch B3 Series OLED 4K TV — $998 $2,399.99 (save $1,401.99)

• LG 70-inch UQ7070 4K TV — $498 $648 (save $150)

• TCL 75-inch S4 4K Roku TV — $378 $498 (save $120)

• Samsung 75-inch Q60DB QLED 4K TV — $898 $1,198 (save $300)

• Samsung 85-inch DU7200B 4K TV — $898 $998 (save $100)

TL;DR: Sobero connects you with community support and tools to reduce or eliminate drinking. Get lifetime access on sale for $59.99 (reg. $149).

Opens in a new window Credit: KWIT Sobero Drinking Control App: Premium Lifetime Subscription $59.99
$149.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal

So, you’re thinking about cutting back on alcohol in the new year, or maybe even making it a permanent lifestyle shift. But going it alone can be a real challenge.

That’s where Sobero’s Premium Plan steps in. For a one-time payment of $59.99, this app to help you work on your relationship with alcohol gives you not just tracking tools but a whole community of people on the same path.

Whether you’re aiming to reduce your intake or ditch drinking altogether, Sobero’s got your back with support, real insights, and practical help.

The Sobero Drinking Control App isn’t just another drinking tracker. Sure, it lets you monitor your intake and moods, but it’s really about building self-awareness and understanding your habits. Track how you feel with or without a drink, uncover patterns, and start making choices that align with your goals. It’s like a roadmap for your drinking habits, helping you see what’s working — and what might need a shift.

And let’s talk community, because that’s where Sobero really shines. You’re joining a support group of people who are also navigating this journey, sharing tips, struggles, and little victories. Think of it as a judgment-free zone where you can get and give encouragement, making the whole process feel a lot less isolating. Plus, Sobero’s experts are always around to answer questions and offer insights, so you’re never left guessing.

Regularly $149, pay just $59.99 for a lifetime subscription to Sobero Drinking Control App Premium — a great way to stay connected, find accountability, and finally feel like you’re not doing this alone.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Give the gift an extra layer of privacy with a lifetime virtual phone number with Hushed for $24.99 (reg. $150).

Just because we want to find that perfect gift doesn't mean we have to spend a ton of time searching or emptying our bank accounts to do so. Since the holidays are a time to give meaningful gifts, what could be more thoughtful than the gift of personal privacy?

A second phone line with the Hushed Private Phone Line Lifetime Virtual Number Subscription lets anyone keep their real number secure while enjoying the freedom to make calls and send texts. Ideal for those with busy lives, side hustles, clients, or online dating profiles, this $24.99 gift (reg. $150) offers a lifetime of safe, separate communication without a monthly bill.

You'll be able to hand out a phone number for work without worrying about receiving late-night calls on your personal line. Or perhaps you know someone navigating the world of online dating who’d love the extra security a second number brings. With Hushed, they can create boundaries and connect safely, all through a simple, easy-to-use app.

This holiday season, give them control over how and when they communicate. With Hushed, users choose from hundreds of area codes, customize voicemail, and access up to 6,000 texts or 1,000 minutes each year. Plus, it uses Wi-Fi or data for calls and texts, meaning no additional charges. It’s a thoughtful, practical gift for professionals, friends, and anyone who’d love an extra layer of privacy.

Let them ring in the new year with the confidence that their private life stays private, all with the simplicity of an app.

At $24.99 (reg. $150) through November 21, lifetime access to a Hushed virtual private phone number is a gift that’s unique, useful, and undeniably thoughtful.

Hushed Private Phone Line: Lifetime Virtual Number Subscription - $24.99

Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Affinity Click Hushed Private Phone Line: Lifetime Virtual Number Subscription $24.99
$150.00 Save $125.01 Get Deal

TL;DR: Bundle a refurbished Apple MacBook Air (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) and a lifetime license for Microsoft Office Home & Business 2019 for Mac for just $289.97 (reg. $1,228) while supplies last.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished Apple MacBook Air (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) + Microsoft Office Home & Business 2019 for Mac Bundle $289.97
$1,228.00 Save $938.03 13.3-inch, silver Get Deal

If you're searching for a new laptop, you don't necessarily need to pay the new-product price.

Check out this deal for a MacBook Air bundled with a lifetime license to Microsoft Office Home and Business 2019 for Mac instead. Work, edit, and stream on this MacBook's 13.3-inch display, and enjoy lifelong access to Microsoft Apps like Word and Teams for only $289.97 through Nov. 17.

The standout of the deal is the refurbished MacBook Air. But don't fear: this laptop arrives at your doorstep in near-mint condition, thanks to its Grade "A" rating. Here are a few of the specs you can expect with this device:

• Intel Core i5 and 8GB of RAM: for light multitasking, browsing, and streaming.

• 13.3-inch display with Intel HD Graphics 6000: for crisp photos, videos, and visuals.

• 128GB of storage: to make your files and photos highly accessible.

• 12-hour battery life: to power through an entire day of work without needing to be tethered to an outlet.

• A 90-day parts and labor warranty: in case you run into issues with your MacBook Air.

Once you've set up your MacBook, you can install your Microsoft Home and Business 2019 license on it. You'll get a lifetime of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Teams Classic on your device, minus the pesky recurring fees or subscription costs.

While this is the 2019 version of these apps (not the 2024 edition or the version in Microsoft 365), they'll help you accomplish your daily goals. You may find this download pairs better with your refurbished MacBook Air as well.

There are less than 80 units left, so get this near-mint MacBook Air and a Microsoft Office 2019 lifetime license for $289.97 (reg. $1,228) while you can. This offer ends in two days on November 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Upgrade your ride with this Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless adapter, now on sale for $89.97 (reg. $149) for two more days. 

You can add some of the latest bells and whistles to your car without breaking the bank. The 2024 Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless adapter can enhance your driving experience without having to trade in your vehicle. It supports some of the hottest streaming services, including Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Spotify, and more. It’s like a Roku for your car! 

Compatible with both iOS and Android devices, and 800+ car models from 2016 to the present, this wireless adapter can help keep you (safely) connected to your favorite media while you're on the road.

Equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, it's designed to give you access to messaging, social media, maps, streaming content, etc. Boasting 16GB of storage, there should be plenty of space to ensure smooth operation of apps and downloads. 

The touchscreen interface is built for user-friendly navigation and to allow you to jump back and forth between applications. This wireless adapter can come in handy during a daily commute or for entertaining kids on those extra-long road trips.

The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless adapter comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-C cable, and USB-A to USB-A tee cable. Simply plug it in to your device, push play, and be on your way.

Get the 2024 edition Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible wireless adapter with streaming service support for $89.97 (reg. $149) while supplies are still available. This offer ends in two days—November 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Wireless Adapter with Streaming Service Support (2024 Edition)

Only $89.97 at Mashable

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Wireless Adapter with Streaming Service Support (2024 Edition) $89.97
$149.99 Save $60.02 Get Deal

Our culture loves to celebrate marriage and what it represents: love, happiness, unity, and continuity until death do you part. But for some, marriage has been more for convenience than anything else.

This isn't really surprising, considering current political turmoil (some people are getting divorced due to their partners' differing political views), the absolute mess that dating apps have become, and the increasing difficulty of sustaining enough cash to pay for a life worth living. (And let's not forget about the aftermath of the COVID lockdown.)

SEE ALSO: Forget the slow burn, Gen Z loves a failmarriage

These challenges, among others, have led handfuls of Gen Zers (aka younger people born between the late 1990s and early 2010s) to opt for alternative arrangements, including "lavender marriages" — unions initially reserved for the LGBTQ community.

What is a lavender marriage?

The term "lavender marriage" dates back to the early 20th century. It originally referred to a heterosexual marriage between one or two LGBTQ people.

"Lavender marriages have been around for decades, originally as a way to keep a low profile — especially for people hiding their sexual orientation in eras and industries where being 'out' wasn't an option," Channa Bromley, PhD, and founder of the Metamorphosis Relationship Coaching Institute (MRCI) tells Mashable.

These marriages were prevalent in Hollywood during the 1920s, when actors and actresses were pressured via "morality clauses" (introduced by the Universal Film Company, per History) to maintain appearances. Some famous examples include Rock Hudson's marriage to Phyllis Gates and Barbara Stanwyck's marriage to Robert Taylor.

In the 1930s, William Haines, one of the most popular silent film stars at the time, pushed back against Hollywood's demands (specifically Louis B. Mayer, studio chief of MGM) and left his career to live with his boyfriend, Jimmie Shields. Haines is said to be one of the first openly gay actors in Hollywood.

It wasn't until the late '60s and '70s, with the rise of the gay rights movement following the Stonewall riots, that the LGBTQ community could start being more open about their identity. Former President Bill Clinton signed an executive order in 1998 to prohibit employment discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Redefining "I do" — lavender marriages in the 21st century

Lavender marriages may have roots in the LGBTQ community, but Gen Z has decided to adopt the term in a new context.

"Flash forward, and we've got Gen Z reimagining this concept, but with their own spin," says Bromley. "For a generation that's dealing with sky-high living costs and social isolation, lavender marriages have evolved into something that's not just about hiding but about creating stability, connection, and shared support."

In an October Business Insider article, writer Lindsay Dodgson says Gen Zers are "redefining" lavender marriages because they're "tired of being broke, single, and lonely." The hashtag #lavendermarriage has garnered millions of views on TikTok, with Gen Z users putting out video ads for potential lavender marriage partners.

"Gen Z is rejecting the standard marriage blueprint, focusing instead on shared goals: financial security, reliable companionship, and a partner who's down to weather life's ups and downs without necessarily being 'the one,'" Bromley adds. "In a world where the romance script doesn't fit everyone's story, these modern lavender marriages are a radical way of rethinking relationships — less about the fairytale, more about building a stable, sustainable life with someone who gets it."

This evolved interpretation of lavender marriages shares similarities with queer platonic partnerships (QPPs). Like lavender marriages, QPPs focus on deep emotional connection and commitment but without the romantic or sexual expectations of traditional relationships. Both arrangements offer a way to build intimate, supportive bonds that defy conventional labels and expectations.

The potential benefits

Moving in with your BFF and splitting the bills doesn't sound too shabby, and several people on Reddit have spoken up about the advantages of a lavender marriage, like:

• Sharing the cost of health insurance and other living expenses

• Having a built-in support system, babysitter (if you're a parent), and wing-person

• Tax benefits

• Someone to help around the house (that they can now afford) 

• Being able to sleep in your own bed and have your own space while still getting the perks of coupledom

• Feeling safe and protected from abusive or controlling partners

This type of arrangement might also benefit people on the asexual spectrum, Suzannah Weiss, relationship coach and resident sexologist for sex shop Biird, tells Mashable. 

"They may experience some level of attraction or desire, but it may not be a top priority for them when they're choosing their relationships or living situation," she says. "A lavender marriage can provide this kind of person with the companionship that they're seeking, free from the pressure to be romantic or sexual with someone."

Some lavender couples might choose a monogamous setup, while others might opt for an open relationship.

"Love can take many forms and should be enjoyed in whatever form you can find it in," says Weiss. "People value different things in their relationships, and if they value emotional intimacy over physical or romantic intimacy, this might be a good arrangement for them," she continues. "Someone who is non-monogamous could also enter into a lavender marriage for financial, citizenship, or compatibility reasons and continue to date and seek different types of connections in addition."

The potential drawbacks

Even though the unofficial slogan "marry your best friend" sounds nice, lavender marriages aren't always as straightforward as the social media hype might have you believe.

Lavender marriages can be emotionally risky, especially if you're not upfront about your expectations and boundaries from the start.

Even if you enter into a purely platonic and/or non-monogamous agreement, there's a chance that one or both partners might develop romantic feelings, complicating the arrangement and potentially leading to heartbreak. While heartbreak can certainly happen in a "traditional marriage," too, the stakes are arguably higher if the whole point is to marry for practical reasons. Not to mention the jealousy that could come if one partner starts dating someone else even if it's "technically" allowed, and you're concealing your real feelings.

SEE ALSO: As Grindr complaints rise, other gay dating apps try to swoop in

If things don't work out, you'll have to get a real divorce and may lose the friendship. And, depending on how badly the "breakup" goes, there's the risk of being outed — especially if the lavender marriage was intended for its original purpose to conceal one or both partners' sexual orientation, and they weren't close friends beforehand (like those TikTokkers looking for partners).

"The two most important aspects of the relationship, should it be terminated at some point in time, are the division of assets and confidentiality," family law and divorce attorney Yonatan Levoritz tells Mashable. "No one wants to be outed by their spouse or best friend who at one time was the protector of their most precious secret — their sexuality," he says.

Levoritz recommends setting clear legal agreements with strong confidentiality clauses to avoid this trainwreck of a situation.

Why lavender marriages are less wholesome and more worrisome than anything else

Lavender marriages are, in many ways, a symptom of a deeply flawed system, fueled by an unstable economy and a lack of social support. Housing costs, stagnant — or falling — wages, and unattainable healthcare are pushing people to bend over backward and forgo true intimacy with someone (who should be your best friend in the first place, IMO) to survive.

And it's not just about the financial struggles; it's about safety, too. Women often can't even walk down the street without fear of harassment or assault, and the sad reality is that intimate partner violence is common: One in three women and one in four men are victims of some physical violence at the hands of an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Nearly all (99 percent) of domestic violence cases include financial abuse, like forbidding the victim to work or hiding money, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence. In a world where just existing can feel dangerous, a lavender marriage, even without romance, might seem like a way to find some security and avoid those risks.

If basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare were more accessible — and we lived in a society that valued community, connection, and healthy relationships instead of ghosting, breadcrumbing, and catfishing — maybe the younger generation wouldn't be so eager to settle for a workaround.

The bottom line

Lavender marriages might seem convenient, but that doesn't mean they're without risk. If you're thinking about getting into a lavender marriage, make sure you're on the same page as your partner about expectations, boundaries, and exit plans.

If you have experienced sexual abuse, call the free, confidential National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), or access the 24-7 help online by visiting online.rainn.org.

Before I saw Twisters, I wondered what merited a sequel to the 1996 smash hit Twister. Surely there's got to be more to it than the box office records smashed by that Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton vehicle, which awed audiences with a compelling ensemble and groundbreaking visual effects — including an iconic flying cow. Perhaps a new angle on the story? A fresh embrace on what natural disasters mean in our current climate crisis? Or a worthwhile spin around the tornadoes with mind-snapping visuals? 

Nope. 

Though Twisters boasts heralded Minari director Lee Isaac Chung, rising stars Glen Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Anthony Ramos, and a big budget that dwarfs that of its predecessor, this disaster film is a wobbly ride that leaves disappointment in its wake. 

Is Twisters a Twister sequel?  Credit: Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Amblin Entertainment

Sure, technically. Do these two movies have any characters in common? No. Does this new one acknowledge the plotline of the 1996 hit? Only in the most cursory of ways. 

Remember the research gadget that Dr. Jo Harding (Hunt) and Bill Harding (Paxton) were trying to send up into a tornado so they could improve weather warning systems? It was named Dorothy, and that device — inspired by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's TOTO (TOtable Tornado Observatory) — pops up here, accompanied by some newfangled tech similarly named after The Wizard of Oz. Otherwise, the script by Mark L. Smith (The Boys in the Boat) steals so heavily from the plot of the previous movie that he owes its screenwriters, Anne-Marie Martin and Michael Crichton, a thank-you card, if not royalties. 

Remember how Twister began with its female storm-chaser's tragic origin story, in which an F5 tornado ripped her farmer father right out of their storm shelter? Well, Twisters takes that plot and applies Scream's slasher rules to it: bigger, deadlier, higher body count.

Weather scientist Kate Cooper (British actress Daisy Edgar-Jones with a very dodgy Southern-ish American accent) is testing her own experimental tech with a batch of colorful friends, all with the hope to "tame the twister!" But just as we get into the groove of this rowdy crew's journey, they all get sucked away from the story, leaving behind a blandly traumatized heroine and her furrow-browed pal Javi (Hamilton's Anthony Ramos in a thankless role). 

Cut to five years later: Kate has given up twister-chasing for a tame life in meteorology. But like Paxton's character in the original, Kate is drawn back for one last job. Just as in Twister, sneering but well-funded scientists are regarded with open hostility, while the scrappy crew using homespun gadgets and instinct are upheld as heroes. Chief among the latter is Hit Man's Glen Powell as Tyler Owens, a YouTube star famous for his cowboy persona and twister-chasing bravado. A romance will inevitably spark between Kate and Tyler, because that's what Hollywood demands.

Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell don't click.  Credit: Melinda Sue Gordon / Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Amblin Entertainment

Edgar-Jones won praise for her performance on the BBC drama series Normal People and previously headlined the American mystery movie Where the Crawdads Sing. But here, she's out of her depth. Part of the problem is the script's spin on her backstory makes her tragic tornado more recent, so our heroine is still fairly deep in the throes of grief and survivor's guilt. Kate's nowhere near as plucky or as engaging as Hunt's storm-chaser was in Twister. But even when Kate eventually lightens up — her flirtation with Tyler has her trade her white mock turtlenecks and scowl in for a red T-shirt and clumsy smile —  she still feels like a bore next to the other quirkier chasers. 

Swaggering in a ten-gallon hat and a Tom Cruise grin, Powell better shoulders his heroic duty. As Tyler, he relishes the intensity of the chase and the risks of their DIY doodads, and that joy is contagious. Unfortunately, these thrills are short-lived, for a number of reasons. First, Twisters is burdened with a subplot about survivors left hurt and homeless by the storms, making for a series of scenes that are egregiously maudlin for a summer popcorn movie. Plus, the romantic subplot feels forced, highlighting Tyler's good-guy gestures until it seems like he just wears her down. They're a hard couple to root for. She's dull, and he's aggressively one-note; together, they're a cardboard cutout of a cowboy and the wet blanket who loves him. 

Twisters wastes its best assets.  Credit: Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Amblin Entertainment

Between the sweeping scenes of tornado-related action and the hackneyed romance plotline, there's little sense of Chung's vision as a director. The connections to Minari become clearer in the moments of community, like when Tyler takes Kate to a local rodeo. Footage of strangers crowding into the stands and riders getting ready to take to the arena exude Chung's love for the American South and its people. Likewise, Tyler's rowdy crew of misfits shines with the chaotic but passionate bond seen in Chung's rightfully heralded family drama. 

The character actor lineup in Twister was (and is still) absolutely astonishing. While there were plenty of "That Guy!" faces like Alan Ruck, Joey Slotnick, and Jeremy Davies, the group also included future Academy Award–winner Philip Seymour Hoffman and Todd Field, who would go on to write and direct critically adored dramas like In the Bedroom, Little Children, and Tár. 

To Chung's credit, Twisters is suitably stacked in its own right. Brandon Perea, who played the camera-savvy Angel in Jordan Peele's Nope, plays Tyler's right-hand cameraman, Boone. Sasha Lane, who broke through as the captivating unknown in Andrea Arnold's road trip drama American Honey, brings her exuberance to fearless drone operator Lilly. Tunde Adebimpe (Rachel's Getting Married, She Dies Tomorrow, Spider-Man: Homecoming) manages to deliver the inevitable movie-science exposition with an earnest enthusiasm that is undeniably charming. Katy O'Brian, who elated critics earlier this year as Kristen Stewart's brawny co-lead in the gnarly thriller Love Lies Bleeding, brings her kinetic charisma as mechanic Dani. 

Credit: Melinda Sue Gordon / Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Amblin Entertainment

Elsewhere, Kiernan Shipka and Daryl McCormack (Good Luck to You, Leo Grande) entice with their very presence. Unfortunately, they're all given too little screen time. As in the original movie, this ensemble is far from the focus of the film. But unlike Twister, its sequel clearly forgets just how fun it is to watch a band of thrill-seekers do their thing! The hangout vibe of these eccentric storm-chasers has always been a major part of Twister's appeal, whereas Twisters is too eager to flee the party. 

Sure, Twisters throws plenty of storm action at audiences, pitching in fireworks, flames, and even ripping a movie theater to shreds for good measure. But none of this touches down if you don't feel invested in the characters. Edgar-Jones' and Powell's characters are too two-dimensional to hook us. Ramos is kicked to the sidelines with a haphazard sinister business subplot. And the most dynamic characters are treated as little more than window dressing for a plot that's so close to the original Twister I marvel it was (re)made at all. 

In the end, Twisters is big and flashy, but not fun or frightening. There are better movies — even better popcorn movies — out there. So, don't waste your time with this tiresome retread masquerading as a stale sequel. 

Twisters is now streaming on Peacock.

UPDATE: Nov. 14, 2024, 2:59 p.m. EST This article was originally published on July 19, 2024, in conjunction with the film's theatrical release. It has been updated to include the latest viewing options.

Ever wonder what a Mission: Impossible movie would look like if it centered on a 93-year-old grandmother? If so, you're in luck! Thelma is here to answer that curious query for you. And the answer is: downright delightful. 

Following in the footsteps of action-comedies like the sports spoof Shaolin Soccer and the student heist flick Bad Genius, Thelma treats its low stakes with a tongue-in-cheek intensity. Action sequences — like a mobility scooter chase around a retirement home — are less nerve-rattling and more rib-tickling. Remarkably, the joke is never on the old folks at the movie's heart. 

Thelma is inspired by a true story — sort of.  June Squibb and Fred Hechinger play grandma and grandson in "Thelma." Credit: David Bolen

Written and directed by Josh Margolin, Thelma stars Academy Award nominee June Squibb (Nebraska) as a widowed nonagenarian who is a "little wobbly" but a "very determined…tough cookie." So, when some scammers trick her out of thousands by pretending to be her beloved grandson Daniel (Fear Street's Fred Hechinger) in desperate need of bail money, Thelma isn't going to just sit back and take it. 

Thelma's daughter Gail (Parker Posey) and son-in-law Alan (Clark Gregg) are just relieved no one got hurt, and the police simply shrug when Thelma reports the swindle. Daniel is dealing with troubles of his own, like a break-up and his parents' suffocating attention. So, Thelma recruits her reluctant pal Ben (Shaft's Richard Roundtree in his final film performance) to help her track down the crooks and get her money back! 

Incredibly, Margolin drew from personal inspiration to craft this tale. In real life, his own adored grandmother is a sharp lady who'd been conned over the phone by scammers exploiting her love of her family. Rattled that some creep could take advantage of his Thelma, Margolin imagined a Hollywood scenario where she could get her happy ending — and the crook his just desserts. While the resulting film takes a lot of liberties with the truth, Margolin's love for his grandmother shines through in how his senior heroine is depicted.

SEE ALSO: Scammers weaponize iPhone 15 overheating issue to steal users' phones June Squibb and Richard Roundtree are a dynamic duo. 

Too often in films, the elderly are painted as tragic, dotty, or definitely past their prime. Thelma rejects this ageist trope (see also: Swan Song and Grumpy Old Men), painting its eponymous protagonist as a vibrant woman who values her independence, hates the discomfort of her MedicAlert bracelet, and appreciates a good Tom Cruise action movie. All her "friends are dead," but she advises doting grandson Daniel that they've got to be like Tom Cruise and "always land on your feet." 

SEE ALSO: 'Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One' review: Tom Cruise does action rom-com

Through a casual but comedic introduction of this cross-generational hangout, Margolin gives us a good feel for who Thelma is on an average day. But once that crooked call comes through, we see an exciting new side of her as she treks through Los Angeles to seek out the scammers — mobility issues be damned! Tapping into a classic good-cop/bad-cop dynamic, Thelma is a rule-breaker while her old friend Ben (Roundtree) is a by-the-books guy, happily whiling away his days in a retirement community. That is, until Thelma kicks him into gear. 

Squibb and Roundtree share a warm chemistry that feels like they've known each other for decades. She's the feisty grandma who's so familiar that I admittedly teared up missing my own. (Monica was a total Thelma.) He's a man who's earned his retirement, but age hasn't robbed him of boldness or kindness. Together, they pull off comically low-stakes action sequences, like a showdown with the iconic Malcolm McDowell that is as surprising and exciting as it is hilarious. Amid this senior-specific action, there are great one-liners, like Thelma's insistence that she can figure out how to use a stolen gun: "How hard can it be? Idiots use them all the time!"

Thelma is a tale of underdogs coming out on top.  Parker Posey, Fred Hechinger, and Clark Gregg in "Thelma." Credit: David Bolen

Like the classic Shel Silverstein poem The Little Boy and the Old Man, Thelma presents the plights of being old and young as parallels. At the film's start, both Thelma and 24-year-old Daniel are underestimated by Gail and Alan, whose coddling — while well-intentioned — can feel condescending. And both feel adrift, unsure of what their next chapter can offer. But inspired by Tom Cruise and his determination to do his own Mission: Impossible stunts, Thelma and Daniel find they can be their own heroes.

Hechinger's crooked grin carries a mischievousness that pairs perfectly with Squibb's determined glare. They are kindred spirits in reckless adventure. Elegantly and warmly, Margolin's movie reminds us that age is just a number, as shown by how these two truly see each other across generational barriers. It's beyond heart-warming — watching these characters rediscover themselves while supporting each other is good for the soul.

In the end, Thelma laughs at the absurdity of aging, not the elderly. While there are jokes about senility and the infirmities that come with getting older, Thelma and her friends aren't the butt of them. We all are. There's a comforting relatability in their obstacles' familiarity, which never tips into bleakness; the tone of the film is determinedly resilient, and its color palette soft and inviting. These heroes might fall, but like Tom Cruise, they'll get up again, perhaps inspiring us as they rise. Bolstered by some cheeky action tropes, including twists, chases, gunplay, and even an explosion, Thelma is more than a winsome romp. It's a real thrill.  

Thelma is now streaming on Hulu and available to rent or buy on Apple TV+.

UPDATE: Nov. 14, 2024, 2:20 p.m. EST This review was first published on Jan. 18, 2024, as part of Mashable's Sundance 2024 coverage. It has been updated to reflect the latest viewing options.

An unassuming culinary drama on the surface, Trân Anh Hùng's The Taste of Things is a rhapsodic romance and one of the year's most scintillating films. The tale of a renowned French gourmet chef and his diligent head cook, the movie's central will-they-won't-they dynamic will have you leaning forward in anticipation — just as much as the exquisite dishes cooked by the leading duo will leave your palate moist and your belly rumbling.

Cheered on the festival circuit, it's a film in which food is the language of love, and love in turn is a silent conversation between middle-aged professionals who are experts at their craft. The Taste of Things comes wrapped in some of the most gorgeous and thoughtful filmmaking this side of Babette's Feast — a fellow contender for the greatest food movie ever made — with fine-tuned, lived-in performances that intrigue as much as they endear. 

SEE ALSO: 11 films you'll want to see out of NYFF 2023 What is The Taste of Things about? Credit: IFC Films

Set in the French countryside in the late 19th century, The Taste of Things follows famous gastronome Dodin Bouffant (Benoît Magimel) and his live-in cook, Eugénie (Juliette Binoche), who cooks both for him and with him, depending on the occasion. The actors, who were once married in real life, put on a clinic of passionate performance, deepening each scene and interaction far beyond your ordinary romantic drama. 

The film has a sense of idealism in its depiction of spaces, like the sprawling kitchen in Dodin's mansion. It's warm and rustic, and as Dodin prepares to entertain his fancy guests, he and Eugénie begin preparing for a feast with the help of Eugénie's assistant, Violet (Galatéa Bellugi), and Violet's curious young niece, Pauline (Bonnie Chagneau-Ravoire), a novice in the kitchen. 

The scene features no score, except for the scraping of utensils and the simmering of various meats in pots and pans as the quartet works in harmony, breaking the meditative silence only on occasion so that Dodin can test the knowledge and taste of preteen newcomer Pauline.

SEE ALSO: The 30 best romantic movies on Netflix right now

As the feast continues upstairs, with Dodin engaging a handful of his friends (doctors and other high-society types) in academic banter, Eugénie and her helpers bring each dish to fruition, preparing and presenting them with the utmost care. However, Eugénie is no servant. After the meal, the five men upstairs come down to greet her as an old friend whose presence they miss in the dining room. "I converse with you through the food you eat," she joyfully retorts.

This introduction establishes the parameters of the film's insular fantasy, wherein ideas of class are far from the movie's mind (they appear to be in the characters' rearview), since what's on the tip of the filmmaker's tongue is far more vital. There's an unspoken comfort between Eugénie and Dodin, who have worked together for 20 years. And though it seems like they've been intimate on many occasions, theirs is a relationship built on mutual respect. Dodin studies and invents dishes, reading out recipes that Eugénie cooks to perfection, but their back-and-forth of ideas makes each meal they prepare an intimate collaboration.

Dodin, however, is determined to make Eugénie his wife, and though she feels just as strongly as he does, her professional ambitions (and her contentment) raise the question of whether their situation ought to change — or what might happen if it does. There is also the trouble of Eugénie's health and the fainting spells she keeps to herself, though as far as Dodin knows (and as far as she lets him in), her hesitancy to marry is but a wall at which he might be able to slowly and respectfully chip away.

SEE ALSO: Bon Appétit's Claire Saffitz loses it over gourmet M&M's

There isn't a hint of ugliness in the story's conflict, making it perhaps the ideal romantic escape, at least at first. This film is eventually marred by tragic developments midway through. But what never changes over the course of its 134 minutes is the breathtaking love at its center. Buoyed by so many different, equally cogent themes, the film has entirely different names in various territories, each of which represents a fundamental facet of its drama.

Its U.S. title is The Taste of Things, which rolls off the tongue and speaks to its ethereal nature, created by a dancing camera and scenes awash in golden light. Its title in other territories is The Pot-au-Feu, after a dish of beef and vegetable stew that becomes central to the plot. In France, it’s called La Passion de Dodin Bouffant ("The Passion of Dodin Bouffant,") a tale of one man’s dueling passions, and how they each represent his lust for life. 

The Taste of Things is deceptively simple.

Describing The Taste of Things, or even saying its title out loud, makes it seem captivating and mysterious — almost intellectual in a way, not unlike the various gastronomical conversations and debates Dodin ends up embroiled in with his friends.

"Wine is the intellectual side of a meal," they joke, but there's no snobbery involved. Despite their stature in society and their selectiveness with food, wine and conversation are to be shared. The taste of things — good things, and all things — is a communal experience. Eating, for them, is a ritual, sometimes a ridiculous one (like when they chow down on ortolans with handkerchiefs covering their heads). But taste, for Dodin and Eugénie, is something that can be refined and nurtured, like love itself. It isn't meant to be hoarded. This is illustrated by their consideration of taking Pauline under their wing. There’s nothing sinister beneath anyone’s interactions; the film is incredibly good-natured.  

The characters' only hint of food snobbery and selectiveness arises when they're invited to dine with a fictitious prince of Eurasia. But what they decry more than the meal's quality is its sense of excess without much to show for it. The ostensible plot arises when Dodin offers to cook for the prince, and as he brainstorms his menu, he also inches closer to showing Eugénie how much she means to him. The dish he lands on for the meal is the pot-a-feu, often regarded as representative of French cuisine. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a film so distinctly and stereotypically French in its food and sensuous passions that a joking line in the film even references this symbolic Frenchness. And yet, there's a deeper layer to the presence of the pot-au-feu: the idea of beauty and complexity within something considered simple. As a dish, it's a hearty and even pedestrian staple, but its ingredients, when prepared by a master's hand, can become elevated — which is what Dodin hopes to do. It's symbolic of the film itself, a simple love story on the surface that Hùng turns luminous through his deft touch and his unyielding focus on the silences between people and what they mean. 

Every ingredient of The Taste of Things is cooked to perfection. Credit: IFC Films

The various themes and ideas put forth by the film manifest largely through performance. Binoche's radiant, self-assured conception of Eugénie makes her perpetually watchable, and when she plays off her illness as something mundane, she invites, through her stern independence, an emotional paradox. All you want is to care for her in the few fleeting seconds she lets herself display vulnerability amid Binoche's smiles, which command and delight in equal measure. 

As Dodin, Magimel is the perfect foil to Binoche, juggling excitement and trepidation with a weary anxiety about his job, worn in a perpetually burdened expression. However, his fog of exhaustion and anxiety lifts as soon as Eugénie enters the room. His gaze is one of unmistakable worship and adoration, even two decades on. Like cooking, love for Dodin seems like a never-ending process, constantly refined. In The Taste of Things, there's no boundary between being in love and falling in love, a delicate balance struck by both Binoche and Magimel in each and every scene.

All of this is bound by Hùng's passionate, dreamlike filmmaking, in tandem with cinematographer Jonathan Ricquebourg. The camera practically never stops moving: It floats between characters in lengthy master shots as they cook, moving inward and outward, from close-ups to medium-wide shots and back. Each shot is so magnetic and engaging, you seldom notice that the filmmaker has chosen to avoid cutting for minutes at a time. The frame floats as if on air, like it's being blown by a gentle breeze. Every shot becomes rhythmic in its motion, and editor Mario Battistel ensures that when it does finally cut, the result is completely seamless. It may as well be music.

Each frame is awash in golden light, whether refracted through chandeliers and forming fuzzy halos around Dodin as he's lost in thought, or beaming in through windows in the afternoon, illuminating the kitchen in an ethereal haze — or, at dusk, beating down on an isolated fragment of a room through a corner window, when Dodin is at his lowest.

It's poetry written through light, and through gazes that fill the screen with a quiet exuberance that you can reach out and touch, taste, and smell. No matter what title it goes by, it’s likely to stand the test of time as a landmark cinematic romance — the kind of towering achievement that isn’t just about falling in love, but embodies the experience wholly.

The Taste of Things is now streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Feb. 2, 2024, 12:09 p.m. EST "The Taste of Things" was reviewed out of the 2023 New York Film Festival. This review, originally published Oct. 19, 2023, has been updated to include the most recent viewing information.

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

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

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

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

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

Flowing water making its way toward the sea.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for November 15 Hurdle Word 1 answer

RIVER

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A handle that switches something on or off.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for November 15 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

LEVER

Hurdle Word 3 hint

What you call a baby pigeon.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 15 Hurdle Word 3 answer

SQUAB

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A color or a flag.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for November 15 Hurdle Word 4 answer

BEIGE

Final Hurdle hint

To destroy with pressure.

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

CRUSH

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

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for Nov. 11's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 15 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Fewest strokes win

• Green: Football players

• Blue: Soccer pros

• Purple: Cool sport terms

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow - Golfing outcomes

• Green - NFL teams in singular form

• Blue - NWSL teams

• Purple - Curling lingo

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #53 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Golfing outcomes: BIRDIE, BOGEY, EAGLE, PAR

• NFL teams in singular form: COMMANDER, GIANT, JET, STEELER

• NWSL teams: COURAGE, REIGN, SPIRIT, WAVE

• Curling lingo: BONSPIEL, HOUSE, SHEET, STONE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, November 15, 2024:

AcrossWhat a vacuum cleaner sucks

• The answer is Dirt.

"Clam up" or "chicken out"

• The answer is Idiom.

Rigatoni, radiatori or rotelle

• The answer is Pasta.

Trim wool from

• The answer is Shear.

"If I had ___ known!"

• The answer is Only.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15 DownQuick jumps in the pool

• The answer is Dips.

State where much of the Snake River flows

• The answer is Idaho.

Up and out of bed

• The answer is Risen.

Number at the bottom of a receipt

• The answer is Total.

American Impressionist painter Cassatt

• The answer is Mary.

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

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

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

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