- Help
- Google+
TL;DR: Get your own refurbished Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) for the unbelievable price of $199.97 (reg. $999) now through March 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $199.97In need of a new laptop? If you're looking for maximum portability, you can't beat the MacBook Air.
Right now, you can secure your own refurbished Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) for just $199.97 if you act fast. This deal only runs through tonight at 11:59 p.m. PT and will likely sell out before then.
Enjoy the perks of a MacBook for under $200MacBook Airs are versatile Apple computers that offer serious portability at under three pounds in weight. And that doesn't mean they sacrifice quality — this model is still equipped with a powerful 1.8GHz Intel Core i5 processor that offers speedy performance.
This MacBook Air has an impressive 13.3-inch widescreen with Intel HD Graphics 6000, perfect for streaming, gaming, or, y'know, answering work emails (to each their own).
With 128GB of storage, you can save important data right on this device; no bulky external hard drives are needed. This model also offers an ample 12-hour battery life on a single charge, so you won't need to tote your charger everywhere, either.
Curious about where the deep discount comes in? This device comes with a grade A refurbished rating, which means it will arrive on your doorstep in near-mint condition with virtually no signs of wear (despite the refurbished price tag).
Bring home your own MacBook Air for only $199.97 (reg. $999) now through 11:59 p.m. PT, while supplies last.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Overwhelmed by the state of the world? Trying to find something fun to watch on your friendly neighborhood international multibillion-dollar corporation's streaming service? It's OK to ignore the ever-growing pile of worthy but harrowing dramas and acclaimed documentaries on your watchlist for another hour or two. Treat yourself by hitting play on some of the finest comedies in the Amazon Prime Video library.
From old faves to cult comedies and sweet hidden gems, whether you're after a highbrow chuckle, crumb-spraying sputters, or screeching, hysterical, hang-on-hang-on-just-pause-for-a-moment cackling, Prime Video has got something to split your sides.
So here we go: the best comedy movies now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
1. Walk Hard Jenna Fischer and John C. Reilly star in "Walk Hard." Credit: Gemma La Mana / Columbia / Kobal / ShutterstockIf you've never seen this underappreciated, star-studded work of genius, it's time to fix that. The story of the rise, fall, and rise again of country-rock legend Dewey Cox (John C. Reilly) is a pitch-perfect parody of all the Oscar-bait music biopics you know and love, from Walk the Line and Ray to the documentary Bob Dylan: Don't Look Back. In its own right, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story is an epic tale, which Reilly's commitment makes surprisingly affecting for a film where someone gets accidentally cut in half with a machete (which people constantly keep bringing up). The songs are genuinely great. It's as endlessly quotable in your daily life as golden-era Simpsons. Plus, the cast is uniformly great — from The Office's Jenna Fischer and character actress Margo Martindale to a raft of cameos too good to spoil here. — Caitlin Welsh, Australia Editor
How to watch: Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
2. BottomsIn Emma Seligman's follow-up to Shiva Baby, Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri co-star as PJ and Josie, a pair of unpopular lesbians ignored or reviled by everyone at their high school. Faced with the prospect of another year of virginhood, the BFFs come up with a plan. They’re going to start a fight club! They’ll teach cheerleaders self-defense, and maybe somehow along the way, they’ll also get to sleep with said cheerleaders. The plan has a lot of holes — PJ and Josie don’t know anything about self-defense, for starters — but don’t worry about it, OK? They’ll figure it out! Just keep those nosy boyfriends out of the gym.
Bottoms is a ridiculous teen comedy that pays homage to high school movie tropes while blazing a new irreverent trail of its own. With a laugh-out-loud script co-written by Sennott and Seligman, an unforgettable performance from Nicholas Galitzine as an idiotic football player, Marshawn Lynch stealing scenes as a supportive teacher, and tons of fake blood, Bottoms is an instant teen movie classic. — Kristina Grosspietsch, Freelance Contributor
How to watch: Bottoms is now streaming on Prime Video.
3. Napoleon DynamiteThe movie that launched a thousand VOTE FOR PEDRO T-shirts retains the oddball spirit that made it a hit in the first place. As Napoleon (Jon Heder) navigates high school in small-town Idaho — from class president elections to asking his crush to the dance — he must also deal with his awkward family members and their schemes — and take care of Tina the llama, who won't eat her darn food. For every joke and quote that's been memed into the ground, there's another slyly hilarious one you've forgotten about. — C.W.
How to watch: Napoleon Dynamite is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
4. Spaceballs Don't miss Mel Brooks' 1987 parody of "Star Wars." Credit: Moviestore / ShutterstockThe legendary Mel Brooks' 1987 parody of Star Wars (and Star Trek, and Alien...) is both a snapshot of its time and an ageless comedy classic. For the uninitiated: Rick Moranis plays villain Dark Helmet, a goofy megalomanic in a giant not-Darth-Vader helmet whose ship goes to speeds including Ludicrous and Plaid. Meanwhile, mercenary and scoundrel Lone Starr (Bill Pullman) leads a ragtag bunch of misfits against Dark Helmet, including sassy Princess Vespa (Daphne Zuniga), her robot maid Dot Matrix (the late, great Joan Rivers), and Starr's half-man-half-dog, ever-loyal companion Barf (John Candy). — C.W.
How to watch: Spaceballs is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
5. American FictionThelonious "Monk" Ellison (Jeffrey Wright) is an author without an audience. His novels receive critical praise but no one actually reads them. After his latest manuscript is rejected by his publisher for not being "Black enough," Monk writes a fake, satirical book mocking Black literary stereotypes. And… it’s a hit.
Written and directed by Cord Jefferson, American Fiction is a razor-sharp comedy-drama for the modern era. The cast — which includes Tracee Ellis Ross, Erika Alexander, Leslie Uggams, Adam Brody, Issa Rae, and Sterling K. Brown — is sublime, the message is piercing, and the writing is air-tight. American Fiction was nominated for a slew of Oscars, and brought home Best Adapted Screenplay — K.G.
How to watch: American Fiction is now streaming on Prime Video.
6. PaddingtonDo you like your comedy cozy? 2014's Paddington is the sweet and silly watch of your dreams. Written and directed by Paul King (whom comedy nerds might know from The Mighty Boosh), Paddington tells the story of an anthropomorphic bear (voiced by Ben Whishaw) who journeys from darkest Peru to London in search of a new life. The Brown family takes him in, and he explores his new world with curiosity and kindness, blithely unaware that he’s about to become an evil taxidermist's next big target. Will the Browns help to save Paddington? And will Paddington save them along the way? Yes, yes, a thousand times yes!
This absolutely delightful movie is full of British acting greats at their zaniest and visibly having the time of their lives: Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Peter Capaldi, and more. Yes, Paddington is a family film, but its joys will win over audiences of any age. (Same goes for the equally fantastic Paddington 2!). — K.G.
How to watch: Paddington is available to buy on Prime Video.
7. UHF Weird Al Yankovic gets pinched in "UHF." Credit: Moviestore / Shutterstock"Weird Al" Yankovic co-wrote and stars in this cult classic about a dreamer with a wild imagination who suddenly finds himself running a local TV station. Then, he finds sudden success by letting his goofy janitor (Seinfeld's Michael Richards) host a chaotic kids' show. Inspired by that chaos, they program an ever-weirder lineup of absolutely wild shows, taking on the suits at the big networks in a classic underdog arc. Weird Al plays the straight man here, imbuing his earnest hero with a can-do spirit you want to root for. Plus, a pre-The Nanny Fran Drescher sails in to show why she ended up a star. — C.W.
How to watch: UHF is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
8. The Nice GuysRussell Crowe and Ryan Gosling lead a stacked cast in this buddy cop neo-noir mashup. Gosling is Holland March, a low-level private investigator in 1970s Los Angeles looking into the strange death of porn star Misty Mountains. Unfortunately, gruff enforcer Jackson Healy (Crowe) has also been hired — to scare March off the scent. As the two butt heads, the mystery of Misty’s murder begins to unfold, and they form an unlikely and tenuous alliance.
Co-written and directed by Shane Black (Lethal Weapon, Last Action Hero, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Iron Man 3, and more), The Nice Guys is a magnetic, fast-paced action comedy with a smart script, a multifaceted mystery, and a strong sense of style. — K.G.
How to watch: The Nice Guys is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
9. Catherine Called BirdyBella Ramsey is vibrant and charming as Catherine (aka Birdy), a headstrong 14-year-old medieval lady whose father (Andrew Scott) has decided to marry her off to secure wealth for the family. Birdy has other plans for her future. Chief among them? Not being married to a 50-year-old slob. But even more importantly, Birdy yearns for freedom. She will stop at nothing to deter her would-be suitors, much to her family’s chagrin. Written and directed by Lena Dunham (and adapted from Karen Cushman's beloved 1994 novel), Catherine Called Birdy is a clever and spirited coming-of-age comedy with a whole lot of heart. — K.G.
How to watch: Catherine Called Birdy is now streaming on Prime Video.
10. I Want You Back Jenny Slate and Charlie Day star in this delightful rom-com. Credit: Amazon StudiosA rom-com starring Charlie Day and Jenny Slate, I Want You Back enchanted Mashable's Nicole Gallucci with its willingness to skip over some of the most played-out tropes of the genre. "Every successful rom-com has a source of authentic chemistry, and Slate and Day's natural rapport delivers," she wrote in her review. "The two shine as heartbroken hot messes who desperately want their search for soulmates to be over, and their shared sense of humor proves to be ceaselessly charming." — C.W.
How to watch: I Want You Back is now streaming on Prime Video.
11. The Big SickEmily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani's Oscar-nominated screenplay fictionalizes a rocky period from early in their real-life relationship, when Gordon was seriously ill. While it does get emotionally intense in parts, it's also hysterically funny — from a scene where Emily (Zoe Kazan) freaks out over the prospect of pooping when Kumail (Nanjiani, playing a version of himself) is in the apartment, to what might be the single best and darkest 9/11 joke made on film to date. — C.W.
How to watch: The Big Sick is now streaming on Prime Video.
12. BridesmaidsIf you haven't seen Bridesmaids, written by Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, we're so sorry that you've obviously been trapped in a siren’s cave for the last 11 years — because there is simply no other excuse. Bridesmaids was an era-defining film. In 2011, there were still prominent male comedians claiming women couldn’t be funny! Bridesmaids put an end to the debate.
Wiig stars as Annie, a wayward thirtysomething who feels out of step with her best friend Lillian (a perfect Maya Rudolph) when she meets the other women in Lillian's bridal party. What follows is both romantic comedy and buddy flick, stuffed to the brim with punchlines, physical gags, and a repulsive and unforgettable gross-out scene. The entire cast here is flawless: Rose Byrne is delightfully haughty. Jon Hamm is perfect as a hot idiot. Chris O'Dowd is a swoon-worthy love interest, and Melissa McCarthy was nominated for a dang Oscar for her scene-stealing performance as another misfit bridesmaid. Please escape the siren’s cave and see this legendary comedy — for your own good!* — K.G.
How to watch: Bridesmaids is now available to stream, rent, or buy on Prime Video.
13. The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou Bill Murray leads Wes Anderson's crew in "The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou." Credit: Moviestore / ShutterstockThis one's another comedy that gets you right in the feels on a regular basis, but this time with the quintessential Wes Anderson charm. Inspired by, paying homage to, and gently parodying the legendary ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, Steve Zissou (Bill Murray, arguably never better) leads a somewhat disgruntled crew played by a slate of stars (Owen Wilson, Anjelica Huston, Cate Blanchett, Willem Dafoe, and more) on a mission to capture the rare shark that killed the cranky Captain's partner. Soundtracked by a gorgeous array of David Bowie covers — performed in Portuguese by cast member Seu Jorge — The Life Aquatic is what to put on when you feel like being taken on an adventure. — C.W.
How to watch: The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
14. Borat Subsequent MoviefilmThe sequel to Sacha Baron Cohen's mockumentary Borat was a bright spot in an otherwise grim 2020. It scored Oscar nominations and critical acclaim, especially for Bulgarian actor Maria Bakalova, who stole the spotlight as Borat's awkward daughter, Tutar.
Both films follow Baron Cohen, disguised as boorish, backward journalist Borat Sagdiyev, as he endeavors to understand American culture through a series of improvisation set-ups at the expense of unsuspecting real people. Not only is it as viciously funny as the original, but also, this sequel caught in its net then-President Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani in a notorious hotel room scene. It's one of the strangest and most oddly affecting products of cinema's — and the world's — weirdest years ever. — C.W.
How to watch: Borat Subsequent Moviefilm is now streaming on Prime Video.
15. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among ThievesDungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is the definition of a crowd-pleaser. Thrilling action sequences, ridiculous side characters, beloved actors playing gleefully against type, plenty of Easter eggs for the hardcore DnD fans — this is one adventure you don’t want to miss.
Chris Pine is Edgin Darvis, a bard and peacekeeper who turned to a life of thievery to support his daughter following the death of his wife — and was thrown in jail for it. After escaping with his friend Holga (Michelle Rodriguez), Edgin will stop at nothing to reunite with his daughter.* — K.G.
How to watch: Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
16. The Sapphires Jessica Mauboy, Miranda Tapsell, Deborah Mailman, and Shari Sebbens are "The Sapphires." Credit: Goalpost / Kobal / ShutterstockA little bit Dreamgirls, a little bit That Thing You Do!, and a whole lot of stellar soul covers: That's the Australian period musical-comedy The Sapphires. The film follows four young singers from a remote Indigenous community (Jessica Mauboy, Miranda Tapsell, Deborah Mailman, and Shari Sebbens) in the 1960s, who are discovered by an aimless manager (Chris O'Dowd), who turns them into a perfectly choreographed girl group bound for Vietnam to perform for the troops. Totally charming, this is one to watch with your parents. — C.W.
How to watch: The Sapphires is available to stream, rent, or buy on Prime Video.
17. BarbieFrankly, the promotional journey for Barbie was so full of pink, so joyful, so fun, that would have been Kenough. The movie could have been a silly trifle, and we'd likely have been pleased. But writer/director Greta Gerwig brought us the universally heralded coming-of-age comedy Ladybird and then the rapturous re-imagining of Little Women. Her Barbie wasn't going to stop at playful. Instead, it parodied the patriarchy with horses, Stallone-inspired fashion, and a rousing dream ballet fueled by an actual banger, "I'm Just Ken."
Margot Robbie was picture-perfect as a Barbie who realizes the world is much bigger than the dreamhouse-dotted Barbie Land. Ryan Gosling was nominated for a rare comedy Oscar for his delightfully deranged take on the insecure man doll who couldn't cope, and so turned to conquering. (Napoleon relates!) While detractors have argued the film's girl-power messaging is simplistic, it's hard to deny that Gerwig did more with this IP than we could have dreamed. Sure, Barbie is a glossy toy commercial. But it's a glossy toy commercial that not only has something to say, but does so through spectacular filmmaking that folds in eye-popping practical effects, enthralling details, discontinued dolls, and jokes that were way outside the box. From Weird Barbie to that on-point Pride and Prejudice mini-series namedrop, Barbie had us so giddy that we felt like kids again.* — Kristy Puchko, Film Editor
How to watch: Barbie is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
18. Dirty Rotten ScoundrelsSteve Martin and Michael Caine have excellent chemistry as con men with opposite styles. Caine’s Lawrence is elegant and debonair, while Martin’s Freddy is brusque and fairly obvious. Predictably, when the two grifters meet in the south of France, they want the other to vacate their territory. The only way to settle the dispute? A contest of con-artistry! Whoever can hustle $50,000 from the "United States Soap Queen," Janet Colgate (Glenne Headly), wins. 1988’s Dirty Rotten Scoundrels — which is itself a remake of 1964's Bedtime Story — is a slapstick, buoyant, and smartly crafted comedy that has since been adapted into a Broadway musical and a 2019 remake (The Hustle starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson). But ignore all of those. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is the best and brightest of the bunch. — K.G.
How to watch: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
19. Heathers Winona Ryder out-means the mean girls. Credit: Cinemarque-New World / Kobal / ShutterstockWhat's your damage? Long before Mean Girls was hitting popular bitches with buses, this 1989 pitch-black comedy bridged the gap between the John Hughes era and the more cynical teen cinema that would emerge in the '90s. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater star as Veronica and J.D., a discontented popular girl and outcast newcomer, respectively, who take revenge on a cruel clique of rich girls named Heather. The film takes the viciousness of high school to a darkly hilarious extreme, with its own snarky vernacular and vision of '80s excess (croquet! in blazers!). — C.W.
How to watch: Heathers is now available to stream, rent, or buy on Prime Video.
20. ThelmaWhen 93-year-old Thelma receives a phone call from her grandson claiming he’s been arrested and needs money, she wires $10,000 immediately. The only problem? Her grandson is fine. He’s not in jail. Thelma has been scammed! And when faced with disinterest from the police, Thelma takes it upon herself to track down these con artists herself and get her money back. June Squibb is superb as the nonagenarian on a mission, recruiting help from other seniors to achieve her goal — and she gets to ride a sick scooter! — K.G.
How to watch: Thelma is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
21. Dr. StrangeloveA bruising Cold War satire, Stanley Kubrick’s paradigm-shifting Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb makes a mockery of nuclear war strategy. The reaction upon its release in 1964 was ecstatic. Few movies before had dared to so boldly deride seemingly prestigious institutions like the Pentagon and the Presidency — or to cheerfully lampoon nuclear armageddon.
When an Air Force bomber receives the order to drop the bomb on the USSR, the U.S. government scrambles to discover who gave the order, who is actually in charge, and how they can avoid doomsday. Strangelove stars a peerless Peter Sellers in multiple roles, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, and more — as well as James Earl Jones in his film debut! — K.G.
How to watch: Dr. Strangelove is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
22. His Girl Friday Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell, yes please. Credit: Columbia / Kobal / ShutterstockThis classic screwball rom-com, adapted from the play The Front Page, sees star reporter Hildy Johnson take on one last assignment with her editor ex-husband before she gets out of the game for good to remarry and retire to a quiet life of motherhood. If you're a little burned out on contemporary comedy, there's nothing better for the soul than watching a dame with moxie stalk around in gorgeous skirt suits tossing out rapid-fire banter in a Mid-Atlantic accent. As Hildy Johnson, Rosalind Russell does it better than just about anyone. Throw in Cary Grant as the former boss who's still in love with her — and still gives as good as he gets — and this 1940 film still crackles with energy and wit. — C.W.
How to watch: His Girl Friday is now available to stream, rent, or buy on Prime Video.
23. Galaxy QuestTim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, Tony Shalhoub, Sam Rockwell, and Daryl Mitchell are the fictional crew of a cult TV sci-fi series, Galaxy Quest. Years after the show’s been off the air, they float from convention to convention, signing autographs and wishing their careers had gone in a different direction. Until one day, they’re kidnapped by aliens who saw their TV broadcast from across the galaxy and thought it was real! Uh oh! Now the aliens hope Tim Allen and crew can defend their planet against an invading force, while the hapless band of actors just hopes they can keep up the ruse long enough to find a way home. Galaxy Quest is a deeply silly movie that packs a sneaky emotional punch. An absolute winner, through and through.* — K.G.
How to watch: Galaxy Quest is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
24. 21 Jump Street21 Jump Street is an energetic and self-aware buddy comedy that premiered in 2012… and it feels very 2012, in that breezy, fun, bro-movie sort of way. Just like in the original '80s TV show, Jump Street features young cops going undercover in a high school — but there’s a twist. While Channing Tatum’s Greg was a popular kid in his glory days, modern Gen Z students look down on his "school sux" attitude. On the other hand, his partner Morton (Jonah Hill), who was always nerdy Greg’s sidekick, suddenly fits in, and this undercover gig becomes a chance to rewrite his disastrously uncool youth. 21 Jump Street is a gas, and it’s smarter and funnier than you’d expect for a nostalgic reboot, thanks to Phil Lord and Christopher Miller at the helm (Clone High, The Lego Movie), a sharp script by Michael Bacall, and an excellent ensemble cast that includes Brie Larson, Rob Riggle, Ellie Kemper, and Ice Cube. — K.G.
How to watch: 21 Jump Street is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
25. Late Night Reid Scott and Mindy Kaling star in "Late Night." Credit: Amazon / Moviestore / ShutterstockMindy Kaling and a wonderful Emma Thompson spark off each other in this spiky, smart comedy set in the world of late-night TV. Kaling's script follows Molly, an aspiring comedy writer who lands in the male, pale, and stale writer's room ruled with an iron fist by Thompson's legendary host, Katherine Newbury. (Oh, for a world where a woman was allowed to become a legendary late-night host.) While there's a sweet romance side plot with one of the many hey-it's-that-guy faces in the writing staff, the real focus is the relationship between Molly and Katherine, and their quest to work out what's really funny, and why. It's hilarious and heartfelt. — C.W.
How to watch: Late Night is now streaming on Prime Video.
26. Theater CampWhen Joan (Amy Sedaris), the storied theater director of performing arts camp AdirondACTS, falls into a coma, Joan’s son Troy (Jimmy Tatro) must take over her duties for the summer. The only problem is that Troy is a total business bro who doesn’t understand the difference between a musical and a straight play (is a musical actually just a gay play?). While he’s trying to figure out how his mom kept this camp afloat, longtime counselors, BFFs, and former campers Amos (Ben Platt) and Rebecca-Diane (Molly Gordon) set out to direct a new masterpiece that tells Joan’s story.
SEE ALSO: 'Theater Camp' review: A great comedy by theater kids, for theater kidsWritten by Gordon, Platt, Noah Galvin, and Nick Lieberman, Theater Camp is a sweet, goofy mockumentary — and a love letter to all those who understand the life-or-death stakes of a cast list. — K.G.
How to watch: Theater Camp is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
27. ZoolanderOne of Ben Stiller's greatest roles is supermodel Derek Zoolander, the original himbo. Beautiful and exceptionally dumb, Zoolander hits rock bottom when his place as the world's top male model is usurped by his similarly beautiful and dumb rival Hansel (perhaps Owen Wilson's best role as well???). There's a whole plot here about brainwashing models to carry out political assassinations, but let's be honest — that’s not why you’re watching Zoolander. You're watching Zoolander to see Stiller stand in front of a small diorama and shout, "What is this, a center for ants?!" Zoolander is just as ridiculous, fun, and quotable as it was 20 years ago. You'll never look at a friendly gasoline fight the same way again. — K.G.
How to watch: Zoolander is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
28. CluelessClueless, first of all, is iconic. Nearly 30 years have passed, but it’s still a cultural touchstone for today's teens. Perhaps its staying power comes from its plot, directly lifted from the literal founder of the romantic comedy, Jane Austen. Like Austen's Emma Woodhouse, Clueless' Cher (Alicia Silverstone) acts as a matchmaker to everyone around her but can't seem to get her own love life in order. The story alone does not fully capture the movie’s charm. Clueless is both hilarious and sweet, features unforgettable costumes, and most importantly, is filled to the brim with memorable, quotable lines. Cinema has never heard a more cutting insult than: "You're a virgin who can't drive."* — K.G.
How to watch: Clueless is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
29. Everybody Wants Some!!In the last three days before class starts, a 1980 Texas college baseball team parties, carouses, and cruises their way across campus. They've got to have fun while they can — and so we do, too!
Richard Linklater's 2016 nostalgic hangout flick Everybody Wants Some!! is a spiritual sequel to his 1993 hit Dazed and Confused. Much like Dazed, the plot here is meandering, happy to revel in life's small moments — a signature Linklater style. But unlike some of the director's more introspective titles, like Boyhood and Before Sunrise, the moments here are exuberant, wild, and brimming with energy. Linklater, who based the script on his own experiences, shows clear affection for his characters, a troop of spirited young athletes on the cusp of manhood, carefree and full of life. It's hard to overstate the effervescent charm of this movie, and its cast, which features Glen Powell, Wyatt Russell, Austin Amelio, Tyler Hoechlin, Blake Jenner, Zoey Deutch, and more! — K.G.
How to watch: Everybody Wants Some!! is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
30. Best in Show Credit: Doane Gregory / Castle Rock / Warner Bros / Kobal / ShutterstockChristopher Guest's peerless 2000 mockumentary, Best in Show, is so sublime in large part thanks to its cast of highly skilled improvisers. Jennifer Coolidge, Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Parker Posey, Jane Lynch, Michael McKean, John Michael Higgins, and Michael Hitchcock are all participants in a Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show, each vying for the prestigious award they've dedicated their lives to. In typical Guest fashion, the humor here comes from the grounded lunacy of the characters. These quirky people are larger-than-life, and yet as real as your next-door neighbors. Simply put, Best in Show is a celebration of human eccentricity… And there are also a lot of dogs! Sign us up! — K.G.
How to watch: Best in Show is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
31. Wayne's WorldWayne’s World has had a truly indelible effect on popular culture. It introduced "Schwing!" into the vernacular and made "That’s what she said" a household joke, for starters. The head-banging to "Bohemian Rhapsody" scene remains one of cinema's most iconic moments to this day. Inspired by an SNL sketch, and produced by Lorne Michaels, Wayne's World is a charming and often absurd comedy that perfectly encapsulates the carefree hope of the early '90s. Also, it's downright hilarious.
Mike Myers and Dana Carvey are Wayne and Garth, two long-haired, grungy, rock music lovers who host a public access television show in Wayne's parents' basement. When a slick producer (Rob Lowe) offers to buy the show, they jump at the chance to make their dreams come true. But these two freethinkers find having a boss and working for the man might not be worth the money that comes with it. Silly, fun, and much smarter than it looks, Wayne's World is a delightful '90s nostalgia-fest that feels as fresh and engaging as if it were made yesterday.* — K.G.
How to watch: Wayne’s World is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
UPDATE: Mar. 28, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT This article was originally published on February 25, 2022 and has been updated to reflect the current streaming options.
TL;DR: Mashable readers can now upgrade to Windows 11 Pro with a lifetime license for only £11.57 (reg. £108.18).
Opens in a new window Credit: InterPlein Microsoft Windows 11 Pro £11.57Windows 10 has served us well, but it’s time to say goodbye. Microsoft is pulling the plug on support for ye olde OS this year. So, if you’re still hanging onto it, now might be the perfect time to consider an upgrade. And no, you don’t have to settle for the basic Windows 11 Home edition.
For just £11.57, you can level up to Windows 11 Pro for life.
Why Windows 11 Pro?If you're used to Windows 10, then Windows 11 Pro will feel like a breath of fresh air. The sleek, modern design makes navigating your computer a lot more enjoyable. But it’s not just about looks. This version also has some major quality-of-life improvements. Multitasking is a breeze with tools like Snap Layouts, which helps you organise your windows like a pro. Whether you’re juggling multiple tabs or switching between apps, it’s all so much easier.
And, for those of us who need to feel like we're actually getting work done, Windows 11 Pro brings a nice productivity boost. You can have multiple virtual desktops to keep your work and personal life separate.
Windows really leaned into security with this one. The built-in security tools like BitLocker device encryption and TPM 2.0 give you a solid foundation against unwanted access. Add in Windows Defender’s real-time protection and you’ve got a system that’s pretty hard to crack.
It’s not just about keeping your files safe, either. The upgraded login options, including biometric features like facial recognition, make it even easier to get into your system without a password. So, no more typing in those long, complicated strings of characters when you’re in a rush.
If you're ready for an upgrade, get Windows 11 Pro licenses while they're on sale for just £11.57 (reg. £108.18).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The new MotoGP season has started exactly how we expected it to, with exciting battles between the best riders in the world. And we're all set for more of the same this weekend as the action heads to the USA.
If you're interested in watching the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.
When is the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas?The MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas takes place at the Circuit Of The Americas. The 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas race starts at 3 p.m. ET on March 30.
How to watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas for freeEvery 2025 MotoGP race is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.
ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to access ServusTV from anywhere in the world.
Unblock ServusTV by following this simple process:
Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria
Connect to ServusTV
Watch MotoGP for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access MotoGP live streams without fully committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live streaming is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for MotoGP?ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking ServusTV, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Austria
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected
Fast streaming speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas for free with ExpressVPN.
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 hintSkin and bones.
SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answerWEEDY
Hurdle Word 2 hintOne of the seven dwarves.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 30, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 AnswerDOPEY
Hurdle Word 3 hintTo arrange.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 30 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 30, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answerALIGN
Hurdle Word 4 hintA cloudy liquid.
SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for March 30 Hurdle Word 4 answerMILKY
Final Hurdle hintA fantasy.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answerIMAGO
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 the latest 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.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.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.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.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.
Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: For your feet
Green: Baseball stats
Blue: Mascots for Canadian football
Purple: Geography-related
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Running shoe brands
Green: Seen on a baseball scoreboard
Blue: CFL teams
Purple: Teams whose names begin with a geographical feature
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 #188 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayRunning shoe brands - ADIDAS, ASICS, HOKA, SAUCONY
Seen on a baseball scoreboard - ERRORS, HITS, INNING, RUNS
CFL teams - ARGONAUTS, ELKS, LIONS, TIGER-CATS
Teams whose names begin with a geographical feature - ISLANDERS, SEAHAWKS, LAKERS, MOUNTAINEERS
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.
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 MashableBy 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 March 30 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 30 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Join the chorusThe words are related to singing.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words are roles in a singing group.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is ChoirPart.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for March 30Alto
Mezzo
Soprano
Treble
Bass
ChoirPart
Tenor
Baritone
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 one of the most popular New York Times word games 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 today'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.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.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.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.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 March 30 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Not out of the ordinary
Green: Parts of our nation's emblem
Blue: Seen on a NYC theater marquee
Purple: The second half of the word is the same
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Average
Green: Pictured on the U.S. Great Seal
Blue: Proper nouns in Broadway musical titles that are spoken phrases
Purple: ___ Man
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 #657 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayAverage: MEAN, NORM, PAR, STANDARD
Pictured on the U.S. Great Seal: ARROWS, EAGLE, OLIVE BRANCH, SHIELD
Proper nouns in Broadway musical titles that are spoken phrases: BIRDIE, DOLLY, KATE, YANKEES
___ Man: BOGEY, CRAFTS, GENTLE, SPOKES
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 March 30Are 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 today'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 March 30 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 March 30, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:A share or allocation.
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 Q.
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...
QUOTA.
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 March 30Reporting 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.
SAVE $50: As of March 29, the brand-new 2025 MacBook Air with M4 chip is available for $949 at Amazon. That’s $50 off its regular price of $999.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2025 MacBook Air with M4 chip $949 at AmazonI don’t know who’s asleep at the wheel over at Amazon, but they’ve got the just-released 2025 MacBook Air with the M4 chip sitting pretty at $949. Yes, already. Yes, somehow still in stock. This is the kind of deal that feels like it should come with a countdown timer and dramatic music.
Apple just announced the M4 chip, and we’re already getting a discount on a MacBook that has it baked in. This version comes with 16GB of memory and 256GB of SSD storage—aka the sweet spot for anyone who wants a laptop that won’t flinch when you open five apps and 28 tabs at once. It’s fast, smooth, and just obnoxiously good at everything.
SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals in Amazon's Big Spring Sale: New iPads and M4 MacBook Airs are already on saleThe design hasn’t changed much from last year’s MacBook Air, but when something already looks this sleek and weighs practically nothing, I’m not complaining. The Midnight finish? Gorgeous. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display? Still serving up a billion colors like it’s trying to show off.
Apple also upgraded the webcam to a 12MP Center Stage camera, which is perfect for video calls where you want to look like you have your life together. Add in three mics, four speakers, and Spatial Audio, and you’re basically set to produce a podcast without trying.
Price: $949.00 (Was $999.00)
Retailer: Amazon
Model: 2025 MacBook Air (M4)
Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
Memory: 16GB Unified Memory
Storage: 256GB SSD
Processor: Apple M4
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
Extras: Touch ID, 12MP Center Stage camera, Spatial Audio
What really gets me is that the M4 chip is supposed to make this laptop even more efficient, with up to 18 hours of battery life and full support for Apple’s new Intelligence features. I can barely make it through a day with my current setup without needing a charger and a nap.
This is a brand-new laptop. It should be sold out. It should definitely not be on sale. And yet, here it is. Sitting in my cart. Waiting for me to make one slightly irresponsible (but entirely justified) purchase.
SAVE $70: As of March 29, 2024 MacBook Air with M3 chip, 24GB RAM, and 512GB SSD is on sale for $1,099 at Amazon. That’s $400 off its usual $1,499 list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 13.6 MacBook Air M3 2024 $1,099 at AmazonI thought this one would vanish from Amazon faster than a Lightning cable port. 2024 MacBook Air with the M3 chip is not only the newest kid on the block, but this particular config (24GB RAM and 512GB storage) is a power user’s dream. And yet, somehow, it’s still up for grabs for $1,099. That’s $400 off. I checked twice.
This is the kind of laptop that makes my current one look like a potato with a keyboard. The new M3 chip boasts an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, which is Apple’s way of saying, “Go ahead, open 43 Chrome tabs and Photoshop at the same time. We can take it.” I genuinely think this MacBook is overqualified for my Google Docs and occasional Netflix, but that’s not stopping me.
SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals in Amazon's Big Spring Sale: New iPads and M4 MacBook Airs are already on saleWhat makes this deal even more ridiculous is the 24GB of unified memory. That’s the kind of RAM you usually only see in developer builds or MacBook Pros that cost as much as rent. Pair that with 512GB of SSD and you’ve got a machine that keeps up with your ambition, or your TikTok editing habit. No judgment here.
It’s also stunning. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display supports a billion colors, which sounds excessive until you see your desktop background and suddenly feel something. The Starlight finish is classy without screaming “look at me,” and it’s absurdly light at under half an inch thick. Toss it in a tote bag and go pretend you work at a café like the rest of us.
Price: $1,099.00 (Was $1,499.00)
Retailer: Amazon
Model: 2024 MacBook Air (M3)
Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
Memory: 24GB Unified Memory
Storage: 512GB SSD
Processor: Apple M3, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
Extras: Touch ID, Spatial Audio, 1080p camera
Battery life is listed at up to 18 hours, which is code for “yes, you can skip packing the charger.” Plus, it has the usual perks like Touch ID, a 1080p FaceTime camera that doesn’t make you look like a potato, Spatial Audio, and enough microphones to host a podcast you’ll never finish editing.
MacBooks don’t usually go on sale this soon after launch, and yet this one’s hanging out on Amazon like it isn’t one of the hottest laptops of 2024. If it disappears tomorrow, I won’t be shocked. I’ll just be annoyed I didn’t click “Buy Now” fast enough.
SAVE $70: As of March 29, Apple AirPods Max are available for $479.99 at Amazon. That’s $70 off their regular price of $549 during Amazon’s Spring Sale.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max $479.99 at AmazonI fully expected the AirPods Max to be wiped from Amazon’s shelves the second the Spring Sale went live. People love these headphones. They’ve got Apple’s seal of luxury, every tech influencer has raved about them, and they come in colors with names like “Starlight,” which sounds more like a candle scent than a gadget. And yet they’re still in stock. I’m stunned, and also one impulsive click away from owning them.
At $479.99, you’re saving $70 off the list price, which is basically a miracle for Apple gear. I’ve been side-eyeing these for a while, waiting for a rare sale like this. The price isn’t the lowest ever, but it’s close. For a product this popular, I’m not waiting around for a unicorn discount that may never come.
SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals in Amazon's Big Spring Sale: New iPads and M4 MacBook Airs are already on saleApple packed these with features that make me feel like I’ve been listening to music with rocks in my ears until now. The sound is crisp and immersive thanks to the H1 chip and Spatial Audio, and they block out noise like they’ve got a personal vendetta against background chatter. I could probably sit on a plane next to a crying baby and still enjoy my moody playlists in peace.
Comfort-wise, they don’t just sit on your head — they lounge there. The memory foam ear cushions feel like tiny pillows for your ears, and the mesh canopy is far more breathable than the hoodie I refuse to take off.
Price: $479.99 (Was $549)
Retailer: Amazon
Color: Starlight (other colors vary in price)
Form Factor: Over-ear
Noise Control: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency
Audio Tech: Personalized Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos
Chip: Apple H1
Extras: Smart Case included
If you live inside the Apple ecosystem like I do, the seamless syncing between devices is the kind of sorcery that actually justifies the hype. Pop them on, and your iPhone, MacBook, and iPad play nice without you lifting a finger. I love when my tech just works.
The Starlight color is the one on sale right now, which works out because I’m a sucker for anything that looks like it belongs in a fancy tech museum. Other colors are still available too, but they’ll cost you a bit more, because fashion has a price.
I honestly thought I’d be writing about these being sold out. Instead, I’m writing while inching closer to the “Buy Now” button. This deal might not last, and I’d rather have regrets about the purchase than regrets about missing it.
SAVE $100: As of March 29, the iRobot Roomba Q011 is on sale for $149.99 at Amazon. This is a 40% saving on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Q011 $149.82 at AmazonWe'll always be shouting about robot vacuums here at Mashable, especially now, when you can find great deals in Amazon's Big Spring Sale.
If you've been shopping around for something for a while, the name Roomba won't be new to you. And as of March 29, we've found you an incredible deal at Amazon on the iRobot Roomba Q011, now down to just $149.99.
This model has a three-level cleaning system that delivers customizable suction for carpets and hard floors. It comes with smart navigation that cleans in neat rows, dodges furniture, and steers clear of stairs or any other obstacles in your house. And for those hard-to-reach corners and edges, the Edge-Sweeping Brush won't miss any dust buildup.
Controlled from the iRobot Home App, you can do things like schedule cleans while you're away from home, check to see where it has cleaned, and more. And with up to 120 minutes of cleaning on one charge, if it doesn't manage your whole house, it'll return itself to the charging station to reboot.
This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so if you don't want to miss out, move fast.
SAVE $320: As of March 29, the Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop is on sale for $379.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you 46% on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop $379.99 at AmazonWe're big fans of robot vacuums here at Mashable. Anything that reduces your chore list is a plus in our book. So, with Amazon's Big Spring Sale currently underway, we've been tracking all the best vacuum sales for you to enjoy, and this latest on the Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop deserves your attention.
As of March 29, you can take home this impressive model for $320 less than usual, now $379.99.
This is a great vacuum because it doesn't just pick up dirt; it mops your floors, too. It uses Sonic Mopping to scrub hard floors 100 times per minute, and if you know it's about to encounter an extra deep stain, head to the app and initiate Matrix Mop to get 50% better stain cleaning in certain spots.
This vacuum also boasts an impressive precision matrix grid, meaning it takes multiple passes over dirt and debris to ensure it is all removed. And the smart features don't end there: the CleanEdge Detect system uses blasts of air and corner recognition to remove debris from edges and corners pulling the debris into the cleaning path. Plus, there's no need to manually map out the path for this vacuum because it uses 360-degree LiDAR vision to learn your space, detect obstacles, and pick up dirt.
Like all high-end vacuums worth shouting about, this machine self-empties, self-charges, and holds up to 60 days' worth of dirt, limiting your work even further. The base is bagless, so it is both useful and environmentally friendly as it eliminates the need for waste bags.
This is only a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act quickly so you don't miss out.
SAVE $147: As of March 29, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is on sale at Amazon for $832.99. That's a 15% discount on the list price, and the lowest it's ever been.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max $832.99 at AmazonThere are still a few days left of the Amazon Big Spring Sale, and you can find discounts on pretty much anything. Whether you're after a new TV, new earbuds, or a new phone, there really is something on sale for everyone.
And if a new phone is top of your list, we've found a fantastic deal on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, currently at its lowest-ever price. As of March 29, you can save 15%, as it is now down to $832.99. This deal is specific to the 1TB storage option, but you can find discounts across all models.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is a top-tier phone. It’s got a titanium frame, so it’s lighter but still super durable if you're someone who likes to drop it a lot. The camera quality is next to none, boasting a 10x zoom lens and 48MP main camera.
It's built with the new A17 Pro chip, making everything run fast and smooth, whether gaming or texting. It's also one of the most impressive iPhone batteries, promising to last all day.
And you can enjoy work, play, streaming, and all sorts on the clear 6.7 inch Super Retina XDR display screen.
This great deal will end with the Big Spring Sale on March 31, so don't miss out.
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 MashableBy 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 March 29 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 29 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Power plantsThe words are related to food.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words are vegan foods.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is VeganProteins.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for March 29Tofu
Nuts
VeganProteins
Seeds
Beans
Seitan
Yeast
Tempeh
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.
Aliens aren't terraforming Mars, but one of NASA's rovers just found something with a strange texture that might entice a cauliflower lover to do a double-take.
Curiosity, a Mini Cooper-sized lab on wheels, was ambling over rugged terrain a few days ago this March when its navigation camera spotted some Martian rocks unlike any others. The scientists leading the rover's expedition say they've never seen anything quite like this on the Red Planet.
"Oh my glob," the anthropomorphic Curiosity account posted on X. "What are these lumpy rocks?"
But Curiosity wasn't the only one with a geological mystery. At the same time, roughly 2,300 miles away on the other side of the planet, Perseverance found bumpy rocks of a different kind, calling to mind the famous "Martian blueberries" discovered by the Opportunity rover in 2004.
SEE ALSO: Scientists found huge beaches on Mars likely from a long gone ocean Curiosity took close-up pictures of a strange bumpy rock it discovered on Mars in March. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / MSSSSince its mission launched in 2011, Curiosity has traveled about 352,000,020 miles: some 352 million whizzing through space and another 20 over the rusty-dusty terrain. Right now it's on its way to an unexplored part of Gale Crater, called a "boxwork" region, which likely necessitated warm groundwater to form eons ago.
Often outshined by its younger twin rover Perseverance, Curiosity stole back the limelight earlier this week for a monumental discovery based on one of its rock samples. Within it, researchers detected the largest organic molecules yet on Mars, suggesting the chemistry needed for life may have progressed further on the Red Planet than once thought. The molecules, which contain long chains of carbon atoms, could be pieces of fatty acids, key ingredients for Earth life.
Though the organic molecule find, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on Monday, isn't proof of life, it does encourage scientists that other more complex molecules linked to life could still be on Mars. Previously, researchers have been skeptical over whether such evidence could remain on the planet after millions of years of radiation and environmental changes.
Suffice to say, Curiosity is not to be underestimated in its scientific value. The team gave Curiosity's new rocks official names — Manzana Creek and Palo Comado — and took pictures for the record. The leftward rock in the image at the top of this story has jagged, vertical surfaces and "a lot of crazy rough texture," according to the mission journal.
Perseverance discovered a bumpy rock on the rim of the Jezero Crater in March. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / LANL / CNES / IRAP"The rocks were shaped by a combination of wind and water over time, resulting in the cool textures we see today," Abigail Fraeman, Curiosity's deputy project scientist, told Mashable.
Perseverance's bumpy rock, on the other hand, looks a little more like a cluster of miniature peas than cauliflower. It's covered in millimeter-scale beads, some pierced with tiny pinholes. The rover found the rock, officially dubbed St. Pauls Bay, around the rim of Jezero Crater.
And it seems both rovers' sightings have flummoxed their humans.
"What quirk of geology could produce these strange shapes?" wrote Alex Jones, a researcher working on the Mars 2020 mission team, in a blog post.
A Martian rock, dubbed St. Pauls Bay, stands out in gray in a field of reddish-brown terrain. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / ASUSpherical features can form on rocks when water flows through them, creating concretions of minerals over time. But they can also form in other ways, like in volcanic eruptions and meteorite strikes. When droplets of molten rock are thrown into the air by volcanoes or impacts, they cool as they travel, hardening in little balls.
Scientists will continue studying the rocks using the tools available to them on the rovers, but such finds reinforce the desire for NASA to bring samples back to Earth for more rigorous studies.
Right now the space agency is trying to figure out how to save its Mars Sample Return mission, the plan to fly home bits of rock, dust, and air collected by Perseverance. NASA will spend the next year working on engineering plans for two potential new approaches that are considered less complicated and expensive.
This would have been a very different article to read had you stopped by any time before March 2025. Before then, iRobot and Shark were both kind of plateauing in terms of the variety of their respective lineups. It was like a competition to see who could be the most mid — especially compared to the robot vacuums announced at CES.
But the lukewarm rivalry got interesting when iRobot went rogue and overhauled the whole Roomba fleet outside of its typical schedule (the company had previously been saving its big product drops for late summer). The new batch consists of eight new Roombas falling under four different umbrellas: the Roomba 105 or 205, or Roomba Plus 405 or 505, ranging in price from $299 to $999. (This may or may not be a last ditch effort to save the company from a reportedly bleak financial situation.)
These Roombas are so new that I haven't gotten to test them out at home yet. But just based off of descriptions and prices, iRobot seems to have patched up several weak spots in the lineup and prioritized budget friendliness without skimping on features that consumers really care about, like smart mapping in even the cheapest models.
And up until iRobot's March 2025 announcement, neither iRobot nor Shark measured suction power in Pascals (Pa) like most of their competitors do. iRobot finally made the switch, but Shark still insists on keeping an air of mystery by solely comparing suction power to other vacuums in its own family tree. (That's what iRobot was doing with its older models, too.) Shark has also been known to make claims like "50% better suction than the best-selling iRobot. Whatever that means — the weakest Roomba is probably technically one of its best sellers.
Where iRobot and Shark agree: Being weird about suction power disclosurePinning down whether iRobot or Shark robot vacuums are stronger is always a challenge, and not just because each offers multiple different vacs with different levels of power at different prices. The two longstanding brands aren't keen on using the standard unit of Pascals (Pa) to measure suction power like the Roborock and Eufys of the world are — an effort that could only be perceived as a secret pact to make my life as a robot vacuum reviewer more difficult than it needs to be.
Instead, both Shark and iRobot like to keep their suction power comparisons within their own families. For instance, they might say a new model offers "x times the suction power" that an older or more basic model of theirs does. iRobot did originally float the idea of switching over to Pa with its March 2025 releases, but actual Pa numbers are still hard to track down online.
Where Roomba wins: Small obstacle avoidance and more models to fit more needsiRobot simply has more robot vacuums, and that variety alone gives it a leg up on Shark. More models to choose from means more opportunities to customize the features and budget to a shopper's main goals for automated cleaning.
Let's say you're willing to pay a little extra for a premium robot vacuum that achieves the most hands-off experience possible. iRobot has several options with features that make a robot vacuum increasingly self-sufficient, including mopping pads that automatically lift over carpet, self-empty docks that also wash and dry the mopping pads, and small obstacle avoidance cameras.
The Roomba Combo 10 Max has a retractable mop that lifts over carpet. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable The new Roomba Plus 405 Combo has two spinning mopping pads — a first for iRobot. Credit: iRobotBut floor type is far from the most impressive thing the smarter Roombas recognize. All j series Roombas, the Roomba Combo 10 Max, and the Roomba Plus 505 Combo all have small obstacle avoidance technology, which solves the main gripe that many robot vacuum non-believers have: robot vacuums get stuck so often that they're more trouble than they're worth. These Roombas use a special camera system to help them recognize and avoid small obstacles that less-advanced robot vacuums would typically eat, like a phone charger, extension cord, rogue sock, or pet waste.
I first experienced this sense of relief when reviewing the Roomba j7+ and Combo j7+, and it was never easy to get back into the habit of pre-tidying when trying another robot vacuum that didn't have that. I'd easily sacrifice more intense cleaning for a robot vacuum to have the brain cells to do that.
SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuumOne of the coolest parts about the Roomba lineup is that you can mix and match several of these features to stay within a certain budget. You can skip all of the other fancy features while still bringing home small obstacle avoidance with the standalone Roomba j7 for as little as $299 on sale, or try out the space-saving DustCompactor design with or without mopping for under $500. Even the cheapest 2025 Roombas guarantee LiDAR-powered smart mapping and 70 times (read that again) the suction power of the 600 series Roombas, which were the go-to base tier Roombas two years ago.
I'd just like to say that I basically called iRobot's most recent move in an older version of this piece from spring 2024, saying that "iRobot would also be wise to drop a more budget-friendly option with carpet-centric suction power." People sticking to a certain budget shouldn't inherently have to settle for a rinky-dink cleaner, and iRobot finally realized that that's the piece that was missing in its entry-level tier.
Where Roomba loses: The ultra-affordable end of the spectrumPlummeting earnings one month, a random revamp of the entire Roomba line the next month — if we're trying to read between the lines, I'd say it became glaringly obvious that people were getting sick of Roombas costing a lot but not doing enough.
While the 2025 Roomba releases do show that iRobot is pandering to the value-minded crowd harder than ever before, the cost-per-feature situation is still stiff in the $400-and-under category. Is it too overpriced, too late for iRobot?
SEE ALSO: The Roborock Saros 10R aces one thing that most other robot vacuums can'tFor instance, I think that the perfect starter robot vacuum is one with smart mapping and self-emptying — suction can be pretty basic. In Roomba world, the cheapest option for this is the Roomba 105 + AutoEmpty Dock, going for $449.99. In Shark world, the same capabilities can be secured for $329 at full price.
Then, iRobot's $200 to $300 assortment is almost comically Not Worth It. In April 2024, iRobot fumbled a low-hanging opportunity to right the disappointments of its budget section. Admittedly, the $249.99 Vac Essential, $274.99 mopping Roomba Combo Essential, and slightly more expensive self-emptying versions do provide a more powerful clean than the older 600 series. But the cheap Roomba's fatal flaw remains: they still don't have smart mapping, a feature I feel is ~Essential~ in any robot vacuum. A handful of Sharks at the same prices with comparable suction power do smart map.
The Roomba Combo 2 Essential was more of a pain than a help in my apartment. Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableSure, all of these base-tier Roombas do go on sale often. You could technically score the absolute cheapest Roomba for around $130 or a mopping, self-emptying Roomba for $280. But settling for no specific room cleaning just isn't worth it, especially when a similar wad of cash could get you way further if you were buying a Shark (or a Eufy or a Dreame model).
In my experience, just hitting "go" and letting a robot vacuum clean aimlessly is a recipe for coming home to a robot vacuum lost under the bed. The zigzag pattern feels like a hit-or-miss guessing game made more annoying by getting stuck and missing spots on the floor that I'd rather just hit with my Dyson stick vacuum, anyway.
Where Shark wins: Spot cleaning and affordabilityShark has been much more in tune with what the average person is willing to spend on a robot vacuum. The brand consistently offers core capabilities like smart mapping and mopping at lower prices than its Roomba counterparts — a level of cost-effectiveness that should be particularly enticing to strict budget shoppers or first-time robot vacuum owners.
Shark's more approachable price points don't necessarily mean it skimps on cleaning performance, though.
I have both my beloved cordless Dyson and, for Mashable testing purposes, at least one robot vacuum at my fingertips at all times. I get a true sense of any given robot vacuum's value when an unexpected mess within a room in my apartment needs to be taken care of right now. So my favorite thing that I've noticed about Shark robot vacuums is that they make spot cleaning easier than Roombas do. While the iRobot app insists that you create and name an official cleaning zone, even if this is a one-time thing, Shark lets you skip the labeling charade to drag and drop a square on your map in the designated spot cleaning tab. It's just one step, but there's something to be said for streamlining.
SEE ALSO: Tons of robot vacuums also mop, but only these 4 hybrids actually ace the jobShark also gets a bit more nitty gritty with the spot cleaning itself. This all started with its Matrix line from 2023, which introduced Matrix mode. These Sharks clean in a grid pattern, approaching the area several times from multiple angles to grab anything it may have missed in the first pass or two. iRobot and Shark can duke it out over suction power on paper all they want, but in my testing, I found the low and mid-range Shark models (like the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 and Shark Detect Pro) to be much less likely to leave a rogue crumb or pile of hair behind than the 600 series, Essential series, and lower-end j series Roombas.
During regular vacuuming, Sharks in Matrix mode dish out 30 percent better carpet cleaning than the older RV Shark models. For the 2-in-1 Shark models, Matrix mode also works with mopping when the mopping pad vibrates 100 times per minute to scrub at stains that would likely not budge when wiped with a stationary cloth. Matrix mopping came in clutch for keeping up with the constant layer of shoe prints by my front door.
The Shark RV2300, which comes in a cute gray color. Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableShark even extends the Matrix cleaning mechanism to its cheapest robot vacuum, making it one of our favorite — if not the favorite — budget-friendly robot vacuums in 2024. The Shark RV2310 and Walmart-exclusive Shark Matrix RV2300 and RV2300S are incredibly reliable robot vacuums for the price, often on sale for $199.99 for the standalone version and $299.99 for the self-emptying version. (If this model is sold and shipped by a third party rather than Walmart when you click, we'd advise waiting until more stock from Shark itself comes in.)
I experienced no noteworthy issues with navigational accuracy when sending the Shark RV2300 to specifically sweep my bathroom or Matrix clean the floor surrounding the kitchen counter, which is an area I dragged and dropped in the app on a case-by-case basis. Though the suction power is expectedly just OK, it was enough for surface-level daily upkeep of the big, visible debris.
In September 2024, Shark finally caught on to the whole "self-sustaining mopping pads" thing with the release of the Shark PowerDetect line. And naturally, even the most premium Sharks debuted at $1,199.99 and $999.99 — several hundred less than the Roomba with self-washing and drying mopping pads (at the time).
The Shark PowerDetect robot vacuum with NeverTouch Pro dock. Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableThis is the first mopping Shark that knows to stop mopping on carpeted areas without you having to specifically designate so. For good measure, the PowerDetect is also equipped with large wheels that hoist the vac over carpet to keep it dry during mopping mode. Those hydraulics also helped the PowerDetect to be one of the only robot vacs I've tested to not swirl my bath rugs up every single time.
Where Shark loses: Small obstacle avoidanceShark's shortcomings stem from sparseness in its family tree and a long wait period between product drops that often have it playing catch up with other brands. The existing Shark models are also a little more basic than some of the Roombas, especially mid-tier ones.
For instance, the one big thing Shark was missing forever was a premium hybrid robot vacuum that could wash and dry its own mopping pads. That gap was finally closed when Shark released the Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro in September 2024. But small obstacle avoidance is the other premium robot vac feature that's come to simply be expected in vacs near the $1,000 point, and Shark's NeverStuck technology still hasn't mastered it yet. A handful of Roombas, most of them reasonably priced (at least when on sale), do check the small obstacle avoidance box.
SEE ALSO: Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexStyle: Here's which hot air tool is worth your moneyThis means that things like cords, pet toys, laundry, and slippers aren't really on a Shark vac's radar yet. And you have to be around to clear the floor of those before sending a Shark out. Maybe you don't mind that, maybe you do — depending on how seriously you're taking the hands-off approach in your robot vacuum search.
One Roomba counterpart, the $649.99 (or $499 on sale) Roomba Combo j5+, also self-empties, mops, and maps, and does the last part with small obstacle avoidance built in to take on a job even if the floor is a little chaotic. Compared to the other main brands like iRobot, Roborock, Eufy, and Dreame, who all have more than one botvac with small obstacle avoidance tech, it wouldn't hurt Shark to prioritize small obstacle avoidance across multiple models in its next product drop.
Similarly, only one hybrid Sharks automatically stops mopping when carpet is sensed. This means vacuum and mop mode aren't possible at the same time in the other 2-in-1 Shark Matrix models, and a person needs to manually attach the water tank to switch to mopping mode. With Matrix Mopping being such a solid feature, it's a bummer that it can't be deployed more freely.
The most advanced non-mopping Shark does way less than the most advanced non-mopping Roomba. Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableThough I was satisfied with the floor coverage, thoroughness, and mapping accuracy when testing the $599.99 Shark Detect Pro, it seems overpriced for the negligible differences between it and a regular old self-emptying Shark. "Detect" sounds like it should refer to the capability to detect phone chargers or socks, but alas, it's actually talking about a feature that increases suction when an edge, corner, or extra dirty spot is detected. This is nice, but heightened corner coverage isn't major enough to justify $600, especially when there are several Roombas in this price range that also work harder on dirtier spots, as well as mop and avoid small obstacles.
You've never seen unicorns quite like those at the center of Death of a Unicorn.
Not the sparkly, sweet unicorns of modern-day pop culture, these are primal beings with sharp fangs, killer horns, and a bloodthirsty need for revenge. They're movie monsters in the vein of Alien's Xenomorph or Jurassic Park's T. rex: larger than life and utterly captivating, even as they make mincemeat of their victims.
SEE ALSO: 'Death of a Unicorn' review: A24's fantastical monster parable is rich in laughs and goreIt's no wonder, then, that creature features like Alien and Jurassic Park also served as inspiration for writer/director Alex Scharfman's unexpected monster movie. That inspiration extends to the execution of the monsters themselves, which the film brings to life through a combination of practical puppetry and digital effects.
To learn more about how Death of a Unicorn's enchanting beasts came to life, Mashable spoke with Scharfman about historical and real-world inspirations for the film's unicorns, and why it was necessary for the film to use puppets.
Death of a Unicorn's unicorns are rooted in centuries of history. Jenna Ortega films "Death of a Unicorn" with the foal puppet. Credit: A24Death of a Unicorn centers on lawyer Elliot (Paul Rudd) and his daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega), who accidentally run over a unicorn on their way to a retreat with Elliot's wealthy employers, the Sackler-like Leopold family. While the Leopolds plan to exploit the dead creature's magical healing properties, art history major Ridley turns to the past — including the Unicorn Tapestries from the Middle Ages — to prove why that path would be a bad idea.
Similarly, Scharfman turned to historical depictions of unicorns to inform their appearance in the film. "I was interested in recontextualizing unicorns and subverting our modern expectations, which are all relatively recent," Scharfman explained. "The idea of the rainbows and white horse, that's only 50, 75 years old. If you go deeper, there were a lot of different associations with them, so that really informed a lot of the creature design."
One of the Unicorn Tapestries featured in "Death of a Unicorn." Credit: A24There are three unicorns in the film: Elliot and Ridley's victim is the foal, while its parents, the mare and the stallion, attack the Leopolds in order to get their child back. Each came with its own set of inspirations.
SEE ALSO: 'Death of a Unicorn' trailer promises Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, and murderous mythical beastsThe foal is the smallest of the bunch, with its white fur and goatee making it the closest unicorn, visually, to that depicted in the Unicorn Tapestries. More goat-like overall, Scharfman described it as being most similar to medieval unicorn descriptions.
"And if you really want to go back deeper, a lot of those accounts were based on animals off the Tibetan steppe, like kiangs and chiru," Scharfman said.
If the foal is the most goat-like of Death of a Unicorn's trio, then the mare is most equine, closer to a contemporary unicorn. Meanwhile, the stallion is the largest and most ancient of the bunch.
At the end of the day, we wanted the creatures to feel real. - Alex Scharfman"It's this big, bruising brute of a creature that is based on a lot of older accounts of unicorns where they were being conflated with rhinoceroses, since Indian rhinos have one horn," Scharfman said. "That's kind of believed to be what the first written account of a unicorn was, someone describing an Indian rhino to a Greek who'd only understood African rhinos, which have two horns and are slightly different."
Another ancient touchpoint for the stallion? A specific translation of the Old Testament. The King James Bible follows the Latin Vulgate in translating the Hebrew word re'em into unicorn. However, re'em actually refers to wild oxen, including the now-extinct aurochs. Their spinal geometry served as a reference point for the shape of the stallion.
"You take all these references and all these historical accounts, and then at the end of the day, we wanted the creatures to feel real," Scharfman said.
The unicorns in Death of a Unicorn are inspired by nature. The foal puppet in "Death of a Unicorn." Credit: A24In order to ground the unicorns in reality, Death of a Unicorn's design team pulled inspiration from real horses, including Clydesdales for their shape, Icelandic horses for their shaggy fur, and Belgian Draught horses for their almost "bell bottom"-like hoof shape.
Other animals entered the fray as well. Lion tails inspired the unicorns' tails, adding a predatory edge to their movement. Their vicious teeth, meanwhile, were modeled on those of mandrils and wolves — all the better to snarl with, after all.
"[We were] trying to pull from nature as much as possible so that it didn't feel like we were just creating a monster in a lab, but rather it felt like something you believed could exist," Scharfman said. "A unifying umbrella over all of that was that they're almost like Ice Age creatures in terms of their aesthetic."
SEE ALSO: 'Mickey 17's creeper plushes are the movie's real red carpet starsStill, this reliance on nature didn't stop Death of a Unicorn from incorporating more fantastical elements into its unicorns, a combination of subverting and satisfying audience expectations.
"A general design principle and rule of mythology of the creatures is that we're playing a game of telephone with the past," Scharfman explained. "Today we might associate unicorns with purple and rainbows, so we made their blood purple, and we gave the meat and the blood a little bit of iridescence."
We're playing a game of telephone with the past. - Alex ScharfmanWētā Workshop developed early unicorn concepts for the film, then Zoic Studios designed the creatures and completed the film's digital effects. For shooting, Budapest-based special effects studio Filmefex built Death of a Unicorn's many practical puppets.
Death of a Unicorn's practical puppets are total "movie magic." Puppeteers man a unicorn puppet in "Death of a Unicorn." Credit: A24For Scharfman, practical effects played a large part of his pitch for Death of a Unicorn; that way, it could remain in conversation craft-wise with his original creature-feature inspirations. The film combines practical and digital effects, but even in scenes where the unicorns are rendered entirely digitally, Scharfman kept the puppets on set as a reference point.
"It's invaluable to have the practical element there in terms of giving an actor something to perform against," he told Mashable.
And what practical elements these unicorns are! Massive, fur-covered rigs (with all the longer hairs individually punched in), these unicorns were manned by multiple puppeteers at once. According to Scharfman, it took three to four puppeteers just to control each unicorn head, but rigs of individual elements like hooves or snarling jaws could be operated solo, as hand puppets. The puppeteers were also involved in the actual building of the puppets, giving them an intimate knowledge of how they worked.
The foal puppet in "Death of a Unicorn." Credit: A24Scharfman recalled falling under the spell of the foal puppet during one of the film's first scenes, when Elliot and Ridley approach the dying unicorn.
"That puppet was incredible. It breathed, its neck moved, it had leg twitches," Scharfman said. "One of those things Guillermo del Toro talks about is how early in the movie, you need to sell the illusion. That was something we definitely were conscious of. That opening scene with the unicorn, the first time you see it really needs to do a lot to make you believe it. I was blown away, and I'd been watching [the Filmefex team] construct the things over months."
That illusion held throughout shooting. "You stop looking at the puppeteers, and you just start looking at the creature in the eye as if it's real," Scharfman said.
Even during early cuts of the film, Scharfman and editor Ron Dulin sometimes forgot to remove the puppeteers in frame, as they were so focused on the unicorns. The unicorns' spell persists, it seems.
"It's just movie magic, completely," Scharfman said.
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...
Boston's most important responders: Bostonians The people of Boston are to be congratulated for being...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
Digital Privacy: A Catch 22 Mobility, convenience, accessibility and real-...
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...