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TL;DR: Unlock lessons in 25 languages when you get a Rosetta Stone lifetime subscription for $148.97 (reg. $399). Buy it for yourself or a friend while it's 62% off at the Mashable Shop.

Opens in a new window Credit: Rosetta Stone Rosetta Stone: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages) $148.97 at the Mashable Shop
$399.00 Save $250.03 Get Deal

How do you find a gift for someone who wants the world? Wanderlust is so hard to shop for, but there's one gift that's a whole lot cheaper than plane tickets. Rosetta Stone is a language learning platform with beginner to expert lessons in 25 different languages. 

Rosetta Stone is a gift for novice travelers, seasoned wanderers, and everyone in between. Whether they want to learn a few phrases or work toward fluency, they'll have plenty of time with a lifetime subscription. Sign up while this app is on sale for $148.97 (down from $399). 

A gift that lasts forever

Drop a pin almost anywhere in the world, and Rosetta Stone could help you chat with whoever you find there. This lifetime subscription gives learners access to lessons for 25 languages, including Spanish, French, Italian, German, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Swedish, and so many more.

Rosetta Stone’s immersive method is designed to mimic the natural way we learn language, associating words with images rather than rote memorization. This approach helps build real-world skills like ordering at a café or asking about local landmarks, making it ideal for anyone planning their next adventure. That means you don't have to waste time studying grammar when you just want to learn a few phrases on your next weekend trip. 

Plus, with advanced speech-recognition technology, learners get instant feedback to fine-tune their pronunciation, ensuring they sound as close to native as possible.

Over half off, but not for long

You don't need to buy plane tickets to give someone the world. 

Get a lifetime subscription to Rosetta Stone on sale for $148.97. 

Rosetta Stone: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages) - $148.97 | See Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

TL;DR: Use the Nix Mini 3 pocket color sensor to scan and color match almost any surface, now $79.99 (reg. $97). 

Opens in a new window Credit: Nix Sensor Nix Mini 3: The #1 Color-Matching Sensor for Designers, Contractors, Architects, & Homeowners $79.99
$97.00 Save $17.01 Get Deal

It's so fun throwing lights on the walls, hanging garlands, and just going wild decorating for the holidays. But then the season ends, and what are you left with? A wall peppered with tiny holes from nails and scuffs from stick-on hooks.

Finding the exact paint color to cover up these spots can feel daunting, but it's not impossible. In fact, it's not even hard if you have the right tool. The Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor makes color matching easy. This pocket color sensor allows you to scan any wall, trim, object, or ceiling and quickly identify a perfect match from over 200,000 brand-name paint colors. No more trial and error, and it's only $79.99. 

Scan almost any surface

The Nix Mini 3 can scan almost any surface and tell you exactly what color it is, regardless of weather or light conditions. Thanks to its enhanced optical resolution, the Mini 3 offers 3x the precision of previous versions, helping you get an accurate color read every time, even if the wall has faded from sunlight or time.

For digital artists, the Nix Mini 3 gives you instant access to color codes like RGB, HEX, and CMYK along with paint recommendations. Plus, it’s equipped with IPX4 waterproofing and debris resistance, so it’s ideal for a job site or any DIY setting where a bit of dust or splatter might be unavoidable.

For true paint-matching professionals, the Nix Mini 3 offers access to premium color libraries like Pantone, RAL, and NCS.

And setting up your Mini 3 is super simple. Just download the Nix Toolkit app (included for iOS and Android) and connect your sensor. The app lets you save and organize color swatches and connect instantly to paint brands and retailers. 

A DIY-er's dream

Don't hold back when it's time to decorate. 

Get the Nix Mini 3 color sensor on sale for $79.99. 

Nix Mini 3: The #1 Color-Matching Sensor - $79.99 | See Deal

TL;DR: Apply to 150 jobs a day with a LazyApply Lifetime License, now $67.99 (reg. $149) at the Mashable Shop. 

Opens in a new window Credit: LazyApply LazyApply Job Application Basic: Lifetime License $67.99 at the Mashable Shop
$149.00 Save $81.01 Get Deal

Gone are the days when we went out and pounded the pavement with a paper resume and a dream. Now, robots run the show. Or, more accurately, AI tools. Big companies now use AI screening systems that can filter out your resume before its seen by a single human. That means you have to be an expert job hunter on top of all your other skills. Or you can just use your own AI helper to beat the system.

LazyApply is a Chrome extension that uses AI to streamline the job application process, allowing you to apply to multiple positions with a single click. Whether you’re eyeing roles on LinkedIn, Indeed, or other job boards, LazyApply fills in applications based on your saved information, and it's only $67.99 (reg. $149) for a lifetime subscription.

Time to level the playing field

LazyApply simplifies the online job application process and lets you apply for 150 positions daily. This massive reach means you’re not just waiting on one or two leads but actively increasing your chances across multiple platforms. Its AI is programmed to handle each application uniquely, so your profile doesn’t risk being flagged for repetitive content. With LazyApply’s day-wise analytics, you can also track which applications are performing best, refining your approach and boosting your chances even further.

The app goes beyond standard automation by integrating tools like LinkedIn profile email collection, so you can reach out directly to potential employers or hiring managers. Plus, weekly consultation calls offer personalized advice on resume optimization and application strategies, allowing you to adapt as needed.

LazyApply’s Job GPT tool uses advanced AI to select the most relevant information from your profile, so each submission is tailored to the job requirements. Instead of spending hours on applications and risking burnout, LazyApply frees up time for you to work on interview prep, networking, or skill-building.

Put your job hunt on autopilot

It's time to use AI to find your next job. Send your next applications with LazyApply while a lifetime license is still just $67.99 for a limited time.

LazyApply Job Application Basic: Lifetime License - $67.99 | See Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

TL;DR: Replace your bulky AirTags with a razor-thin KeySmart® SmartCard, a credit card-sized Bluetooth tracker that's on sale for just $34.99 (reg. $39.99) + free shipping at the Mashable Shop. 

Opens in a new window Credit: KeySmart KeySmart SmartCard - Works with Apple Find My Network $34.99 at the Mashable Shop
$39.99 Save $5.00 Free shipping Get Deal

What do you get for the person who has everything but can't keep track of anything? AirTags can only take you so far, and they don't exactly help you find a lost wallet. Instead, try a gift that can fit in a greeting card. The KeySmart SmartCard is a razor-thin tracker that works just like an AirTag, looks like a credit card, and barely makes a dent in your gift budget. Plus, you don't have to leave the Apple Find My network.

Pick up a KeySmart Tracker while they're still $34.99 (reg. $39.99). 

No more lost wallets

Unlike other tracking devices, the KeySmart SmartCard is super discreet. It’s just 2mm thick, about the size of two credit cards, and fits into a wallet without adding any bulk. Let's see your AirTag do that.

They can also attach to an ID or security badge using the built-in lanyard slot, a small touch that’s especially handy for anyone who needs quick access to work or building entry cards. 

One of the major benefits of this card is how seamlessly it integrates with the Apple ecosystem. By using the Find My app, users can play a sound on their KeySmart Card to locate it when it’s nearby, or track it within Apple’s global network if it’s lost for real. You can even set up notifications when you accidentally leave it behind and a "Lost Mode" to help retrieve it.

Compact doesn't mean fragile. This tracker card has an IPX8 waterproof rating, so you can hunt down your wallet even if it's lost in the rain.

And with a five-month battery life and Qi wireless charging, this little tracker is a serious set-it-and-forget-it solution.

On sale (for now) with free shipping

You might have finally found the right gift for that special someone who can't find anything. 

Get the KeySmart® SmartCard on sale for $34.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

In an exclusive behind-the-scenes clip from Alien: Romulus, director Fede Álvarez sits down with Alien director and Romulus producer Ridley Scott to discuss the brilliance of the Xenomorph's design.

SEE ALSO: Best horror to watch tonight: Scary movies to celebrate October

"The beast had better be great; otherwise, you've got a bad horror film," Scott tells Álvarez of working to create the perfect terrifying alien.

Scott goes on to credit Alien screenwriter Dan O'Bannon for helping him discover what the Xenomorph should look like. O'Bannon introduced him to Swiss artist H.R. Giger's Necronomicon, whose work some considered to be too obscene for Alien. This was not a problem for Scott, who instantly knew Giger had to work on the film. Plus, as he tells Álvarez, "Obscene's good."

To see more artwork from the Alien franchise and learn more about Scott's introduction to Giger, watch the full clip above.

Alien: Romulus is now streaming on Hulu and is available for purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+. It comes to 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on Dec. 3.

UPDATE: Nov. 19, 2024, 4:37 p.m. EST "Alien: Romulus" was reviewed out of its theatrical release. This article was originally published on Oct. 15, 2024, and has been updated to reflect the most recent viewing options.

Let's talk about Alien resurrection. No, not the fourth film in the Alien series, but rather the ghoulish real-life resurrection at the heart of Alien: Romulus.

The film, directed by Fede Álvarez, brings a familiar face back to the Alien franchise: that of the late Sir Ian Holm. Holm played the Nostromo's synthetic science officer Ash in 1979's Alien. In Alien: Romulus, he "appears" as Rook, a Weyland-Yutani synthetic who is the same model as Ash, and who serves as the science officer for the Renaissance space station.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus' review: Fan Service Summer continues

I say "appears" because Holm, who passed away in June 2020, is unable to perform in Alien: Romulus. Instead, the film uses an animatronic body and CGI to create a simulacrum of Holm. Actor Daniel Betts also provided facial and vocal performances, which were then altered by generative AI and computer modeling to get closer to Holm's. The result lives in the depths of the uncanny valley, alongside Rogue One's revival of Peter Cushing's Grand Moff Tarkin and The Flash's cameo from Christopher Reeve's Superman.

However, Alien: Romulus's Rook has far more screen time than these prior examples, playing first an expository role, then an antagonistic one for the film's young heroes. Each extended appearance is more unsettling than the last, to the point that I dreaded seeing Rook far more than I dreaded any Xenomorph. Not because Rook is a frightening character, but because his presence here snaps you out of an otherwise very fun movie, pointing instead to a disturbing filmmaking practice that mines cheap nostalgia from a late actor's work — and that could have been entirely avoided in the first place.

Why is Ian Holm's Alien: Romulus resurrection so troubling?

Let's start out with the obvious: No matter what permissions an estate may grant, a late actor cannot consent to having their likeness used in a movie. Doing so is an immediate violation of their personhood. In reviving them for the screen, you're creating a performance in a film they might never have agreed to do, with acting choices they might never have made.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus' has a great Easter egg right at the start

That's because the version of Holm we see in Alien: Romulus isn't really Holm. It's a puppet of a character he once played, being pulled out of the Alien toy box in order to score nostalgia points in a movie that's already too full of callbacks. Like Reeve and Cushing, Holm becomes an avatar for misguided fan service, instead of remaining an actor with agency. No wonder concerns about digital replicas of actors and their use after death became a key part of SAG-AFTRA's 2023 contract.

The presence of Holm's likeness in Alien: Romulus is also a smack in the face to the film's own themes. Here is a movie that criticizes how corporations work employees to death, with one of its first scenes establishing that Weyland-Yutani keeps moving the goalposts of Rain Carradine's (Cailee Spaeny, Civil War, Priscilla) contract until it's effectively a death sentence. Yet Alien: Romulus is awfully comfortable working the image of an actor's body beyond death. Elsewhere, the great horror of the facehuggers and Xenomorphs remains the hijacking of our own bodies for alien needs. Does Alien: Romulus not see how its use of Holm's likeness is a similar kind of hijacking?

Alien: Romulus didn't need Rook in the first place. David Jonsson in "Alien: Romulus." Credit: 20th Century Studios

An extra frustrating element of this situation is the fact that Alien: Romulus didn't even need Rook to be effective. Rain and her companions have no idea about the events of Alien on the Nostromo, or who Ash is, so seeing Rook means nothing to them in-world. His presence here is pure fan service, with no actual depth behind it. Sure, the sentiment would have been the same had Álvarez brought back Bishop (Lance Henriksen) from Aliens and Alien 3 or David (Michael Fassbender) from Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, but at least then the director wouldn't have been manufacturing a performance from a deceased Holm.

Just bring in another version of Andy.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Álvarez pointed to a "limited amount of synthetics" as being the reason why he and producer Ridley Scott decided to bring Rook back. Yet even if that limit prevented the creation of another original synthetic beyond Andy (David Jonsson, Industry, Rye Lane), there is still a solution for who could fulfill Rook's role onboard the Renaissance without stooping to fan service. Just bring in another version of Andy. After all, the movie is named Romulus, after famed Roman twins Remus and Romulus — twin shenanigans would only make sense here!

Yes, the Alien franchise has pulled the synthetic twins trick before, with Walter and David in Alien: Covenant. But out of all the callbacks Alien: Romulus has to other Alien films, I think double Andy has the potential to be the most rewarding.

For starters, another synthetic who looks like Andy would actually mean something to Rain and her companions. They'd have more of a reason to trust him upon first meeting him, just by virtue of his resemblance to Rain's brother alone. That's already a step above fan service.

Then, there's Andy's reaction to his own doppelgänger to consider. Aside from Rain, Andy is fairly isolated from the rest of the anti-synthetic crew, and from the rest of the Jackson's Star Colony. What happens if he sees someone who is exactly like him? Does he form some kind of synthetic kinship with his double, especially after learning that Rain plans to decommission him when she makes it to Yvaga?

If there is any trust there, that adds an extra layer of heartbreak to the moment when Andy switches over to being just another vessel for doing Weyland-Yutani's bidding, powered by Rook's chip. Think of Andy's turn there like a reverse Walter and David situation. While David tried to turn Walter against his crew in order to free him from a life of service, Andy's turned against his crew in order to serve Weyland-Yutani. When it's his lookalike facilitating that turn, it becomes more of a betrayal of self, instead of a possible self-liberation.

Twice the Andy is just one solution to the question of, "which synthetic should be onboard the Renaissance?" (A solution that would give Jonsson even more room to flex his impressive range.) There are countless others, including just making Rook an original synthetic and casting any other actor in the part. But there's only one truly incorrect answer, and that's the route Alien: Romulus takes.

Alien: Romulus is now streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Nov. 19, 2024, 4:09 p.m. EST "Alien: Romulus" was reviewed out of its theater release; this piece was originally published on Aug. 20, 2024. The article has been updated to reflect the latest viewing options.

Movies in the Alien franchise are always filled to the brim with references to each other, and Alien: Romulus is no exception. In Fede Álvarez's Alien sequel/Aliens prequel, there's a subtle bit of set decoration that's become a tradition in the franchise: the drinking bird.

In one of the very first scenes in Alien: Romulus, mine worker Rain Carradine (Cailee Spaeny) and her android brother Andy (David Jonsson) are dining in a Weyland-Yutani company canteen. Sitting on their table is a drinking bird. The kind of toy sometimes found on office desks, the drinking bird was patented in 1945 by American scientist Miles V. Sullivan and is now sold in varying quality on Amazon by the bucketload.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus' review: Fan Service Summer continues

It's a dual-bulbed glass bird on a fulcrum, which uses thermodynamics to dip its beak into a glass of water repeatedly. Plus, they usually have a fancy little hat, because this is a place of business.

Behold! Credit: Mashable / Lebazele / iStock / Getty Images Plus

The drinking bird, which is sometimes referred to as the dippy bird, shows up in several of the Alien films, comics, and video games, including Alien³, Alien vs. Predator, and Alien: Covenant, and the game Alien: Isolation. It's an homage to the very first shot of Ridley Scott's 1979 Alien, when the camera is careening through the Nostromo ship and catches sight of two drinking birds sitting on the ship's dining table, dipping away. In fact, the toy birds are on the table during the film's famous chestburster scene, idly sitting by while Gilbert Kane (John Hurt) has a baby Xenomorph punch out of his chest during dinner.

See 'em? Credit: 20th Century Fox / Everett / Shutterstock

In Alien: Romulus, the drinking bird takes on a meaning of its own beyond the obvious fan service, as a symbol of the overworked, indentured mining workers of the Weyland-Yutani colony. Unable to break the regimented monotony of their cog-like roles, Rain and her friends seek escape and enrichment elsewhere — but are seriously doomed for even trying. They are the birds, people.

It's not the only Easter egg or franchise nod in Álvarez's film, but it's a good one.

Alien: Romulus is now streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Nov. 19, 2024, 4:20 p.m. EST "Alien: Romulus" was reviewed out of its theater release; this piece was originally published on Aug. 16, 2024. The article has been updated to reflect the latest viewing options.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Ridley Scott and Fede Álvarez break down the Xenomorph in exclusive 'Alien: Romulus' BTS clip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Literally, this movie had me dry-heaving.

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

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus's biggest cameo is its greatest error

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus' has a great Easter egg right at the start

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

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

Alien: Romulus is now streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Nov. 19, 2024, 3:28 p.m. EST "Alien: Romulus" was reviewed out of its theatrical release. This article was originally published on Aug. 14, 2024. It has been updated to include the latest viewing options.

SAVE $69: As of Nov. 21, the Beats Studio Buds are reduced to $79.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 47% on list price for Black Friday.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds $79.99 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $69.96 Get Deal

Beats are some of the best headphones and earbuds on the market. Famed for their punchy bass and quality sound, there really are few names as reliable. And now that Amazon's Black Friday event has kicked off, you don't need to pay full price to treat yourself to some great sound.

This is especially true with the Beats Studio Buds: As of Nov. 21, these popular earbuds are reduced to just $79.99 on Amazon. Saving you almost $370, this is the biggest discount we've seen since 2023.

SEE ALSO: The Apple Watch Series 10 has dropped to its lowest-ever price for Black Friday

One of our favorite features of these earbuds is the two listening modes: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode. Transparency mode allows you to listen to your music or podcasts while still being able to hear noise around you such as cars, bikes, or other loud noises. This is also ideal for runners who want to remain safe and aware of their surroundings, but also need good music to keep them motivated.

Like most Beats earbuds, these are designed with comfort in mind. They come with three soft ear tip sizes for a secure and comfortable fit. They also boast an eight-hour battery life, with an additional 16 hours provided by the charging case. And if you take your earbuds on the go, these are IPX4-rated sweat- and water-resistant earbuds, so there's more protection for strenuous use or any accidental mishaps.

The package includes the earbuds, a charging case, ear tips in three sizes, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a Quick Start Guide, and a warranty card. Head to Amazon now to grab this impressive Black Friday deal.

SAVE $50: As of Nov. 21, the Garmin Forerunner 165 is on sale at Amazon for $199.99. That's a saving of 20% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Forerunner 165 $199.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

If you're looking for a new smartwatch to take your run tracking to the next level, you'll soon discover the market is pretty saturated with some great options. One of the major players in this category is, of course, Garmin's Forerunner range. Designed with runners and athletes in mind, this range suits anything from beginner runners to serious athletes.

If you fall somewhere in the middle, you'll love this latest Amazon discount on the Forerunner 165. As of Nov. 21, this great watch is on sale for $249.99, the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The Apple Watch Series 10 has dropped to its lowest-ever price for Black Friday

The Garmin running smartwatch combines some of the most useful advanced features, without being over complicated. It features a bright AMOLED touchscreen with traditional button controls. In smartwatch mode, you can enjoy up to 11 days of battery life and in GPS mode, 19 hours.

The watch also gives you personalized daily workout suggestions, Garmin Coach adaptive training plans, and over 25 built-in activity profiles, including running, cycling, and HIIT. You'll also have all the standard health metrics including a sleep report, training outlook, weather, and HRV status.

However, if you're looking for specific training metrics including training status and training readiness, you'll want to look at the higher-end watches in this range. But for a general smartwatch for tracking a range of sports and health stats, you can't go wrong with this Amazon deal.

This is one of Amazon's best Black Friday deals, so head there now to avoid missing out.

While we wait for Apple to launch its smart home display, Amazon is already delivering the goods.

On Wednesday, the company launched two new versions of its Echo Show smart display, one with a 15-inch, and the other with a 21-inch, display.

Just like the previous Echo Shows, these are smart, Alexa-enabled devices which can display your photos, the weather, a calendar, and the latest news.

Flatter than ever. Credit: Amazon

Amazon's previous Echo Shows vary from bulky little standalone displays and displays perched upon an oval or circular base, to the flat 15-inch version that's meant to be mounted on a wall.

And while the 15-incher has been upgraded, the star of the show is the new, equally flat, 21-inch version.

It has a 21-inch display with a 1080p resolution, a built-in, 13-megapixel wide angle camera with auto-framing, and four speakers (two woofers and two tweeters). The new version of the 15-inch Echo Show has essentially the same specs, only with a smaller, 15.6-inch Full HD display. Both devices are equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

You get the wall mount equipment with the device, but the stand has to be purchased separately. Credit: Amazon

As for why you'd want to have the Echo Show in your home, Amazon suggests using it as a smart kitchen TV, an audio and video entertainment hub, a smart home control hub, a picture frame, or a video call device.

SEE ALSO: Finally live: Amazon's official Black Friday sale and a ton of new deals are here

Amazon Echo Show 15 costs $299.99, while the Echo Show 21 costs $399.99. Both devices are available now, and they ship with an Alexa Voice Remote, as well as everything you need to mount them on a wall.

SAVE OVER $250: The MacBook Air 2024 (13-inch and 15-inch) has been discounted in Amazon's Black Friday sale.

The best Black Friday deals on the Apple MacBook Air 2024 Best 13-inch deal Apple 2024 MacBook Air 13-Inch $849 (Save $250) Get Deal Best 15-inch deal Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch $1234 (Save $250) Get Deal

Amazon's Black Friday event has officially kicked off, promising a whole week of impressive deals and discounts. Whether you've got your eye on a new TV, Apple Watch, or tablet, you'll find something on your wishlist reduced at Amazon.

But the latest deal that's caught our eye is on the Apple MacBook Air 2024. As of Nov. 21, both the 15-inch and 13-inch models have been reduced to their lowest-ever prices at Amazon. Currently, the 13-inch 2024 MacBook Air is priced at $849. The 15-inch 2024 MacBook Air is priced at $1234 for Black Friday.

SEE ALSO: Save $50 on Apple AirPods Max in Amazon’s Black Friday sale

These models of MacBook are incredibly similar, but there are differences. As you would guess, the 15-inch is the same but in more ways than just screen size, bigger. For sound, the 15-inch features a six-speaker sound system with force-canceling woofers, while the 13-inch comes with a four-speaker sound system.

Both 2024 models of the MacBook Air benefit from the new and improved M3 chip, which, according to extensive Mashable testing, means the M3 is around 20% faster than the previous generation M2 chip.

Both boast an impressive 18-hour battery life, perfect for working or studying away from home when you don't have access to a charging outlet. They also both include all the essential MacBook Air features, such as a backlit keyboard, Touch ID, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster wireless connections.

The 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air laptops are listed as limited-time deals at Amazon, so if you're interested, move fast.

SAVE $150: As of Nov. 21, the iRobot Roomba Vac 2 is on sale at Amazon for $249.99. That's a 38% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Vac 2 $249.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal

If a robot vacuum is on your wishlist, you'll know all about Roomba. One of the top robot vacuum manufacturers on the market, these devices are a great way to cut down your chore list. And with Amazon's Black Friday sales officially kicking off on Nov. 21, there couldn't be a better time to treat yourself.

And it really is a treat, because as of Nov. 21, the iRobot Roomba Vac 2 is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon. Saving you $150, you can now pick up this vacuum for just $249.99.

SEE ALSO: Top 4 robot vacuums for small spaces to shop on Black Friday

Like most high-end robot vacuums, the Roomba Vac 2 comes with a self-emptying dock that holds up to 60 days of dirt and debris. This is a great selling point, because you won't need to empty the vacuum with each use. For thorough cleaning, it boasts a powerful 3-Stage Cleaning System with four suction levels. It also has a Multi-Surface Bristle Brush and an Edge-Sweeping Brush, perfect for those hard to reach corners.

Smart navigation will keep it from bumping into things, and cleans your floors in neat rows. And you can schedule all this to start from your phone, just download the iRobot Home App. Charging can last up to 120 minutes of runtime, and if it runs out of battery mid-clean, it'll recharge and pick up the cleaning where it ended.

Head to Amazon to grab this great Black Friday deal.

SAVE $28: As of Nov. 21, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K is on sale at Amazon for $21.99. That's a saving of 56% on list price for Black Friday, and the lowest it has ever been priced.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $21.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $28.00 Get Deal

The big day may not be here yet, but Amazon has arrived. The online retailer has launched its long-awaited Black Friday event, running from Nov. 21 all the way through to the actual Black Friday.

Discounts are kicking off on a huge range of products, especially tech. So if you're looking to upgrade your laptop, tablet, TV, or even your phone, now is the time.

SEE ALSO: Get Apple AirPods Pro 2 for under $190 in Amazon’s Black Friday sale

But the next big discount we are loving is this 56% discount on the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K. As of Nov. 21, the popular Amazon device has been reduced to its lowest-ever price. With a top price of $49.99, you can now grab it for just $21.99.

The Fire TV Stick is a streaming device that plugs into your TV (or laptop) and lets you access platforms including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more. It has a remote with Alexa built-in, helping you turn any TV into a smart TV. (Top tip: using Alexa to search for your favorite movie saves time and effort.)

There's no over the top setup to worry about, these handy remotes are so simple to use. Really, anyone can do it. Just pop the device into your TV's HDMI port, and that's it. You have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels.

And with the Fire Stick 4K, you can enjoy stunning 4K Ultra HD visuals with advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. This model also boasts a much more powerful processor and enhanced Dolby Atmos support than its predecessor, ensuring a smoother performance and better quality sound.

Head to Amazon to secure this best-ever price.

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 21'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 21 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: Shirts

• Green: Milk tea add-ons

• Blue: Sea animals

• Purple: Unfinished pasta

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: Kinds of Shirts

• Green: Spheres in Milk Tea

• Blue: Marine Invertebrates, Familiarly

• Purple: Starts of Pasta Names

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 #529 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Kinds of Shirts: FLANNEL, OXFORD, POLO, TEE

• Spheres in Milk Tea: BOBA, BUBBLE, PEARL, TAPIOCA

• Marine Invertebrates, Familiarly: CORAL, JELLY, SPONGE, STAR

• Starts of Pasta Names: FETT, PENN, TORTE, ZIT

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 21

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 21'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 21 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 21 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

The backbone of support and structure.

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 S.

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...

SPINE.

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 21

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.

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 21 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 21 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: You're getting warm

These words are for winter usage only.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are used to keep you warm.

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 Fireplace.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for November 21

• Screen

• Broom

• Flue

• Chimney

• Poker

• Mantle

• Hearth

• Fireplace

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.

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

Here are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Wednesday, November 21, 2024:

AcrossBright light

• The answer is Sun.

Depleting the sky

• The answer is Ozone.

Metric unit

• The answer is Liter.

Academy award

• The answer is Oscar.

Mins. and mins.

• The answer is Hours.

Related to rainfall

• The answer is Pluvial.

DownAlone

• The answer is Solo.

Israeli guns

• The answer is Uzi.

Creator of Minecraft

• The answer is Notch.

Within reach

• The answer is Near.

Blunders

• The answer is Errs.

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 $50: As of Nov. 21, Apple AirPods Max are available for $499.99 at Amazon. That’s a 9% Black Friday discount off their usual price of $549.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Airpods Max $499.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Apple Airpods Max are one of the best sets of headphones on the market, and their standard pricing reflects that. As part of Amazon’s Black Friday deals, Apple’s premium over-ear headphones are now $499.99, down from their typical $549 price tag. While this isn’t the deepest discount, it’s rare to find Apple’s fanciest cans on sale, so don’t let this chance slip through your (metaphorical) fingers.

These aren’t just headphones; they’re an audio experience. With custom dynamic drivers and Apple’s H1 chip running the show, the AirPods Max delivers crisp, high-fidelity sound that’ll make your Spotify playlist feel like performing live in your living room. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) lets you block out distractions, whether it’s the hum of your neighbor’s leaf blower or the chatter at your local coffee shop. And when you actually need to hear what’s happening around you, Transparency Mode has your back.

SEE ALSO: Save over 80% and get a free £10 voucher with the best Black Friday Audible deal

The real magic happens with Personalized Spatial Audio, which uses dynamic head tracking to make every song, show, or podcast feel like it’s tailored specifically for you. Pair that with Dolby Atmos support, and suddenly, your weekend binge-watch feels like a movie premiere (minus the sticky theater seats).

Comfort isn’t an afterthought, either. The AirPods Max features a knit-mesh canopy that evenly distributes weight and memory foam ear cushions that feel like pillows for your ears. Plus, with up to 20 hours of battery life, they’ll outlast your most ambitious Netflix marathons.

The space gray model is the star of this deal. Still, other colors could also be discounted — because your headphones should match your vibe, obviously. Black Friday deals on Apple gear don’t last long, so snag these while you can and let your ears live their best life.

SAVE $70: As of Nov. 21, the Apple Watch Series 10 (46mm GPS) is on sale for $359 at Amazon. That’s 16% off its usual price of $429 for Black Friday.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (46mm, GPS) $359.00 at Amazon
$429.00 Save $70.00 Get Deal

Apple Watch fans, your Black Friday wishlist just got a little more affordable. The Apple Watch Series 10 (46mm, GPS) is now available for $359 at Amazon, saving you $70 off its usual $429 price tag. It’s the perfect Black Friday excuse to upgrade your wearable tech and let your wrist do more than hold a bracelet.

The Series 10 features a redesigned, thinner, and lighter build, making it more comfortable for everyday wear. Its always-on Retina display is up to 30% larger than previous models. It gives you plenty of screen real estate to check your heart rate, track your workouts, or sneakily read texts during meetings.

SEE ALSO: Save over 80% and get a free £10 voucher with the best Black Friday Audible deal

If health is your focus, this smartwatch has you covered. From taking ECGs to tracking menstrual cycles and providing sleep apnea alerts, it’s like having a mini medical assistant strapped to your wrist. The new Vitals app delivers overnight health metrics, and the Workout app offers advanced tracking for running, swimming, and everything in between. And yes, it’s water-resistant up to 50 meters, so cannonballs are fair game.

On the connectivity front, the Series 10 lets you send texts, take calls, use Siri, and stream music — all without constantly grabbing your iPhone. Add safety features like fall and crash detection, and this device becomes a reliable companion for life’s unexpected moments.

This deal is for the 46mm GPS model with the jet black aluminum case and black sport band, but other stylish configurations and sizes are also discounted during Amazon’s Black Friday sale.

Black Friday deals on Apple products don’t last long, so if you’ve been eyeing an upgrade, now’s the time to grab one. This is the lowest-ever price on Amazon, so this might not stick arund for long.