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"Two terms, where we're nine months into this, you'd think we think it would be impossible for us to be shocked by Donald Trump," Stephen Colbert began his Late Show monologue on Tuesday. "But give the man credit, every so often, he takes the time to attach the electrodes to our nipples and and then it feels like the first time."

Of course, the late night show host is talking about the president "going Hulk Smash on the White House." Demolition of parts of the White House's East Wing, built in 1902 and expanded in 1942, began this week, as part of construction on Trump's $250 million new ballroom. On Monday, some of the East Wing's windows and an entryway were pulled down by construction workers.

"As part of his White House ballroom project, he sent out a backhoe to rip off a chunk of the East Wing," said Colbert, showing a picture of the demolition. "That is so deeply unsettling. It's like being a kid and seeing your teacher at the grocery store. For sale. In the meat department."

As Colbert pointed out, the demolition of parts of the East Wing is going ahead despite Trump's promise in July that his new ballroom "won't interfere with the current building...It'll be near it but not touching it."

"So that was a lie," said Colbert. "At this point, should we even believe that this is going to end up being a ballroom? It could just as easily end up being a combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell."

Colbert also noted that the Treasury Department, which faces the White House, has told employees not to share photos of the demolition — "not generally something you instruct when you're proud of what's going on."

Euphoria Season 3 has been a long time coming, and what is likely to be the show's final season has been shrouded in understandable secrecy.

Appearing on The Tonight Show in the clip above, though, Jacob Elordi (who plays Nate in the show) decided to throw us a crumb.

"I only know my part in the season, because the whole thing is like the JFK files, it's all redacted," Elordi tells host Jimmy Fallon. "For mine, I think a good phrase I guess for my season is 'white fritillaries.' Do with that what you will."

White fritillaries, for what it's worth, are a type of bell-shaped, nodding flower. Could it be a code name for drugs, considering past seasons? Will Elordi's character die face-down in a flower bed? Did he just pick two random words to send the internet into a frenzy, even though they having nothing whatsoever to do with the show? All options seem possible.

SAVE $700: As of Oct. 22, the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 portable power station is on sale for $799 at Amazon. This is 47% off its list price of $1,499, saving you $700.

Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station $799 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $700   Get Deal

We still have a wait for Black Friday sales, but that doesn't mean retailers are completely without deals during this time. Amazon still has plenty to look through, including some great portable power station deals. If you've been looking to pick one up, Amazon has slashed $700 off the price of the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 portable power station.

This discount has dropped the price of the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 from $1,499 to $799, making for a 47% discount. Whether you're wanting to have it for your home or to use on-the-go on a camping trip, this portable power station is more than worth its discounted price.

SEE ALSO: Scary: Best Buy will start dropping early Black Friday deals on Halloween

The Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 features three AC ports that deliver a total output of 2,200W alongside a 30W USB-C port, a 100W USB-C port, and an 18W USB-A port. It also weighs 39.5lbs and features a convenient carrying handle so you can take it with you on any outdoor adventures you have or around the house if you need.

Amazon currently has this portable power station marked as a limited-time deal, so be quick to take advantage of this great discount on the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 at Amazon. You can also score a discount on the Bluetti Apex 300 right now at Amazon.

SAVE $8.12: As of Oct. 22, the Pokémon TCG Surging Sparks Elite Trainer Box is $74.82 at TCGplayer, compared to $82.94 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Surging Sparks Elite Trainer Box $74.82 at TCGPlayer
$82.94 Save $8.12   Shop Now

Remember Surging Sparks? With Mega Evolution being snapped up as fast as it gets restocked and Phantasmal Flames preorders going in and out of stock, I can understand trainers forgetting about it. Both Surging Sparks sealed product and single cards are dropping to reasonable pricing now that Pokémon TCG reprints of legacy Scarlet and Violet expansions are starting to spread out in the wild.

The Surging Sparks ETB is currently $74.82 at TCGplayer, a saving of $8.12 on an overpriced $82.94 at Amazon. It's a classic case of big box retailers increasing their profit margins and jumping on the hype, and I don't agree with it. At least sellers on TCGplayer mostly stick to market value pricing.

SEE ALSO: Where to buy Pokémon cards in 2025 — avoid overpaying or missing out on new sets

Trainers will get eight Surging Sparks booster packs, a set of 65 deck sleeves that match the Pikachu theme of the Elite Trainer Box, a set of dice, card dividers, card storage box, and a promo Magneton Illustration Rare card.

Most valuable Surging Sparks Pokémon cards Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Sealed product is coming down in price, and so is Surging Sparks single cards. Pikachu ex SIR was touching nearly $600 earlier this year, so it's a great time to snap up the top chase cards in this Scarlet and Violet Pokémon TCG expansion. Hydeigon ex SIR for under $50? Yes please. Here's the Surging Sparks cards that should be taking pride and place in your binder:

1. Pikachu ex - 238/191

   Near Mint Holofoil: $378.50
   Market price: $349.35
   Most recent sale: $349.99

2. Latias ex - 239/191

   Near Mint Holofoil: $176.60
   Market price: $179.46
   Most recent sale: $176

3. Milotic ex - 237/191

   Near Mint Holofoil: $107
   Market price: $114.62
   Most recent sale: $109

4. Pikachu ex - 247/191

   Near Mint Holofoil: $63
   Market price: $66.78
   Most recent sale: $66

5. Hydreigon ex - 240/191

   Near Mint Holofoil: $46.29
   Market price: $46.60
   Most recent sale: $47.22

SAVE $250: As of Oct. 22, the LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI TV is on sale for $1,896.99 at Amazon. That's a 12% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI $1,896.99 at Amazon
$2,146.99 Save $250.00   Get Deal

No matter where you stand on when you should start the festive celebrations, like it or not, the festive spirit is starting to take over the shops, ads, and TV guide. Before you know it, our screens will be filled with holiday classics like Home Alone and The Grinch, so why not watch these on a nice, new TV?

A TV is the perfect early Christmas present to buy yourself, especially since it's the season for staying cozy indoors and watching all your favorites. And as of Oct. 22, you can get a great deal on the LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI TV at Amazon. Right now, this impressive TV is down to $1,896.99 (usual price is $2,146.99). That's a saving of $250 on list price, and the lowest price it has ever been.

SEE ALSO: Save $300 on a 75-inch TCL QM8K 4K TV to celebrate a new NBA season

This is a great option to stream your favorite movies. It uses OLED technology with over 8.3 million self-lit pixels, so you get deep blacks and accurate color. It also has Brightness Booster technology. This enhances individual pixels for even clearer detail. It also benefits from Bright Room Ready feature, meaning it performs well even in well-lit spaces.

If you're a gamer, this TV has a 0.1ms response time, up to 144Hz refresh rate, NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium, variable refresh rate support, and four HDMI 2.1 ports. Also, the LG Game Dashboard and Game Optimizer let you adjust settings exactly how you like.

It's worth noting that this TV is sold and shipped by Beach Camera. We wouldn't normally recommend a third-party seller, but this retailer has great reviews and for a record-low price, you really can't go wrong.

Maybe I’ve been spending too much time with portable power stations, but straight out of the box, the EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Ultra looks slick. It has a refined design without any flashy labeling, and it looks pretty great overall. It comes with a hefty 3,072Wh capacity, paired with a 3,600W continuous output and a 7,200W peak, giving you plenty of power to work with. Power outages, off-grid living, RV trips, and job sites can all benefit from the EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Ultra.

And while it feels more complex than, say, the Anker Solix C1000, EcoFlow has made this model for the masses, and it’s easy to navigate. The labeling on the unit itself is intuitive, and this could be really great for those new to the world of power stations, eliminating the guesswork of figuring out what goes where. Although this is pretty standard on portable power stations, I appreciate EcoFlow’s effort here, given this is a slightly more advanced model. I’m also thrilled at the design of the rear power ports. They’re all nicely tucked away behind door flaps that fold down and tuck away, much like the oven doors on The Great British Bake Off.

A face any portable-power-station user could love. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

It’s also massively expandable, and it's super quiet. Here are some study-worthy specs on the EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus.

Specs

• Capacity: 3,072Wh

• Continuous output: 3,600W

• Peak output: 7,200W

• Weight: about 74 pounds

• Dimensions: 15.5 in. D × 12.9 in. W ×  24.13 in. H

• Power options: AC, USB-C (140W), USB-A, 30 amp

• Recharging options: Standard AC wall charging, generator, solar, alternator, solar + generator, solar + alternator

• Maximum solar input: 1,600W

• UPS: Under 10 milliseconds

• Battery type: LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate)

• Warranty: 5 years

What can the EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Ultra power?

In real-world scenarios, the Delta 3 Max Ultra is able to power most appliances, especially thanks to the 30-amp plug. When testing, I used it to power an air fryer, rice cooker, electric space heater, espresso machine, a microwave, and to recharge my phone.

EcoFlow rates the Delta 3 Max Ultra as capable of keeping a 120W refrigerator cooling for about 35 hours or a microwave running for two hours. If you’re hoping for WiFi router support, this EcoFlow model can keep a 100W model online for more than 10 days, and it’ll recharge a phone at least 240 times.

The display on the EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus gives you everything you want to know and nothing more. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

In total, the EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Ultra offers four AC ports, one 30-amp plug, three USB-C ports (with two of those rated for 140W), and one USB-A port. That gives you plenty of power options should you want to operate the Ninja Slushi in the backyard or roll the power station down to the summer neighborhood festival to power a party speaker.

Plentiful recharging options

When recharging with standard AC wall power, expect the Delta 3 Max Ultra to take about 90 minutes to power up to 80% when starting from zero. In testing, it took me a bit over two hours to get a full charge. But you’re far from limited to AC recharging with the Delta 3 Max Ultra. You can opt for solar with a maximum input of 1,600W, which will get the Max Ultra up to 80% power in about 100 minutes, according to EcoFlow. You can also use generator charging, alternator charging, and a hybrid of solar with an alternator, and solar with a generator. When testing recharging, I used AC and solar. The AC recharging was quieter than when I was testing the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2, and that unit is tiny in comparison.

Recharging port doors open. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable Port doors tucked away. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable Pile on the power

Some people want a portable power station designed for easy use on short camping trips. Many of these models don’t contain the guts to hook up to battery expansions, meaning they max out at their stated watt-hour capacity. But since the Delta 3 Max Ultra is designed for bigger lifts like home backup during a power outage or off-grid living, EcoFlow made this model compatible with expansion batteries.

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus with two expansion batteries in a neat little pile. Credit: EcoFlow

Should your power needs increase, this model can accommodate hooking up to an extra 8,000Wh of expansion thanks to the EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Plus Smart Extra Battery.

An app that’s actually kinda fun

Most portable power stations come with an app that gives you extra control of the unit. EcoFlow offers one of my favorite apps in the portable power station realm, and I somehow kind of enjoy playing around with the setting options and viewing the displayed info. Plus, it’s really great to glance at the app to get real-time battery info when recharging the power station.

Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

More than simple convenience, EcoFlow’s app has useful features, including a Storm Guard Mode. With this enabled and the power station plugged in for AC charging, the EcoFlow app will automatically trigger the power station to begin recharging when a storm is incoming. Switch this on and get peace of mind that the power station will be at 100% when the storm arrives.

Another really cool feature found in the EcoFlow app is the Smart Output Priority control. From this menu, you get to decide which port gets power priority, so you can plug several devices or appliances in and control which is getting the lion’s share of power.

Not a “carry around the campground” model

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus is a chunk, weighing about 74 pounds. That’s not an unheard-of weight for a power station that comes with over 3,000Wh. Comparatively, the Anker Solix F3000, which has fairly similar specs, weighs 91.5 pounds, so the EcoFlow is actually significantly lighter.

That being said, this was a heavy lift for me. I’m the type of girl who will never accept help opening the pickle jar, and I can lift my own belongings, thank you. But I (mostly) allowed my partner to carry this puppy around. Not only is 74ish pounds a challenge for me to lift, it’s long enough that picking it up is awkward for my wingspan.

The telescoping handle and wheels are a must on this unit, which was hard for me to carry. This might be a non-issue on the jobsite. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

But EcoFlow doesn’t expect us to carry the Delta 3 Max Ultra around all the time, as they’ve graced us with a set of durable rear wheels and a really convenient telescoping handle. It’s easy enough to roll this model around, and it does alright on solid terrain, but the wheel clearance is rather low. It was close to impossible to roll it on deeper gravel around the campground when I was testing, going for a more dragging vibe than a roll. It’ll do fine rolling around the garage, a driveway, or a hard-packed trail, but otherwise, transportation is an issue. I stand by saying this is not the right model if you’ll need to carry it for any distance save for a few feet, and it would be a real pain to take up or down stairs regularly.

Beware: this mode doesn't wheel around on gravel, but it will cook you lovely rice. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable Pricing on the EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus

EcoFlow loves a sale almost as much as we do at Mashable, and the brand frequently offers many of its portable power stations at great discounts. Sale prices are so frequent that I recommend shopping EcoFlow models when they’re on sale, especially during popular sale times like Amazon Prime Day events, Black Friday, and major holidays like the 4th of July. Shop during these times and you’re likely to not only get a discount but also get some free extras like solar panels.

At full price, EcoFlow has the Delta 3 Ultra Plus listed at $2,899 but it’s common to find sale pricing that’s closer to $1,600. That’s a price that’s on par with competitor models. If EcoFlow has tossed in extras like a free solar panel, that could tip the scales to make this the most desirable value.

Is the EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus worth buying?

If you spend time off-grid, head out on RV trips, or live in an area that’s prone to power outages, the EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus is a beast worth owning. It supplies 3,072Wh of power, has a convenient app, great ports, and versatility in recharging. The option to expand with extra batteries makes this a great option if you think your power needs might increase, but you’re not completely sold on a larger (and more expensive) model. But keep in mind, there are better models for a quick camping weekend, and it’s not ideal to roll around in gravel or sand. Otherwise, EcoFlow has once again made a great portable power station that’s even better if you can snag it on sale.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Ultra Plus $1,499 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $100   See It at Amazon

TL;DR: Lifetime access to ChatGPT, Gemini, and more is now only $80 with 1min.AI.

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan Lifetime Subscription $79.99
$540 Save $460.01   Get Deal

AI tools like ChatGPT are hard to go without, but the subscriptions are expensive, and you don’t have anything to show for it if you ever cancel. If you want lifetime access to the AI tools you rely on every day, then check out 1min.AI. This platform gives you access to the same AI tools you’re used to, but now they’re all in one place, covered by one lifetime subscription.

Normally $540, right now, you can get a 1min.AI lifetime subscription on sale for $79.99. Instead of paying individually for different AI tools, 1min.AI puts them all under one roof. That includes:

• OpenAI models like GPT-4o, GPT-4 Turbo, and GPT-3.5

• Claude models from Anthropic

• Gemini Pro from Google

• Llama 2 and 3 from Meta

• Mistral and Cohere’s Command model

You can use these for writing, editing, summarizing, image generation, voice-to-text, light video editing, grammar checks, and more. Everything runs in your browser, so there’s nothing to install, and you can get started right away.

Like many AI platforms, 1min.AI runs on a credit system, but it’s more generous than most. You get 4 million credits each month, plus daily login bonuses that add up to 450,000 extra credits every month. If you don’t use your credits, they roll over.

Don’t pay monthly for AI tools that everyone else only had to buy once. For a limited time, you can get a 1min.AI lifetime subscription on sale for $79.99 with code SAVE20. Sale ends Nov. 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Upgrade your home office with a Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Mini PC on sale now for just $455.99 (reg. $999).

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Mini PC (2021) $455.99
$999 Save $543.01   Get Deal

Could your home office use an upgrade? The Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Mini PC provides fast performance, Windows 11 Pro, and support for up to three monitors. And right now, you can bring it home for just $455.99 (reg. $999).

Whether you have a separate room for an office or your workspace is just a tiny desk in the corner of your bedroom, this Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Tiny provides plenty of power in a compact 1L design that saves precious desk space at only 7.2 inches tall. Don’t be deceived by its petite size. This desktop is equipped with a 10th Gen Intel Core i5 6-core processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM for speedy performance.

SEE ALSO: The 2025 MacBook Air M4 is under $850 right now at Amazon — act fast to save $150

The 512GB NVMe SSD lets you store files locally. If you like to work with multiple monitors, you’ll be happy to know this desktop supports up to three monitors through HDMI and DisplayPort. There are also other connectivity options like USB-C, USB-A, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.1. And it’s ready to grow with you, thanks to expansion slots, driver support for older OS versions, and easy upgrades.

The Lenovo ThinkCentre boasts security features like TPM 2.0, BIOS-level passwords, a chassis intrusion switch, and Intel vPro management, all of which keep your precious data protected. It also comes loaded with Windows 11 Pro, a majorly upgraded interface that gives you access to Microsoft Copilot. You may finally be able to cancel that paid ChatGPT subscription now that you have your own AI built directly into your computer.

You don’t need a big computer for a big job.

Get a Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Mini PC on sale now for just $455.99 (reg. $999).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

DISNEY+ BUNDLES: Disney+ is offering bundle deals so you can stream the best of its library at a lower price.

The best Disney+ deals and bundles in October 2025: Best ESPN Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle $29.99/month for a year, then $35.99/month Get Deal Best HBO Max Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Hulu Bundle Deal Disney+ and Hulu Bundle $12.99/month with ads Get Deal

Whether you're looking to jump into the latest superhero saga or journey to a galaxy far, far away, Disney+ is the streaming service for you.

Home to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and so much more, Disney+ offers a library that's stuffed-full of shows and films to keep both adults and kids entertained when it matters. This includes Marvel's Thunderbolts*, which is now available to watch on the platform.

If you've had this streaming service on your radar but are unsure which plan is the best fit for you, we've got you covered with a selection of Disney+ streaming deals. This includes a great limited time offer on the new Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle. If you're a sports fan, you can sign up for this plan for $29.99 per month for the first year.

SEE ALSO: How to watch 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' at home: When and where to stream it

Alongside that deal, there are a few more bundles to check out with Disney+ right now, including the Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max package. This is a great investment for those who already own the other two streaming services and are looking to cut down on costs. Considering Disney+ has just increased its prices, now is as good a time as any to check out a bundle.

We've detailed all of the available bundle deals below, alongside basic information on Disney+ plans if you just want the House of Mouse's service on its own.

Best ESPN bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle $29.99/month for a year, then $35.99/month Get Deal

If you're a sports fan looking to add ESPN into your bundles, you're in luck: Disney offers bundles with both ESPN Select and ESPN Unlimited. According to ESPN, "ESPN Select includes ESPN+ content only. Fans who want ESPN+ exclusively may subscribe to the ESPN Select plan. ESPN Unlimited includes all of the ESPN networks and services, including ESPN+." If the latter has caught your attention, it has a limited-time offer going on right now.

The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle, which has ads, is currently available for $29.99 per month for a year. The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited premium bundle without ads is on offer for $38.99 per month for a year.

These discounted bundles are only available for new and eligible returning subscribers through Jan. 5, 2026. Once the year is up, they'll go back to their full prices of $35.99 per month with ads and $44.99 per month without.

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle — $29.99 per month for a year (then $35.99 per month)

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle Premium — $38.99 per month for a year (then $44.99 per month)

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle — $19.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium — $29.99 per month

Best HBO Max bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like it

The Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max bundle is one of the best available at the moment. Starting at $19.99 per month, you can have three excellent streaming services right in the palm of your hand, which is a great offer to take advantage of. The $19.99 per month option is for the With Ads plan, but if you'd prefer to watch your favorite content without ads, the No Ads plan comes to $32.99 per month. Compared to what you'd pay for each of these on their own, you're saving 41% with the ad-supported plan and 39% with the ad-free plan.

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (with ads) — $19.99 per month (save 41%)

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (no ads) — $32.99 per month (save 39%)

Best Hulu bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+ and Hulu Bundle Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $12.99/month Get Deal Why we like it

If the Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max mega bundle feels like a bit too much, there are smaller bundle deals to check out instead. One of the most affordable bundle options the service has is the Disney+, Hulu Bundle. This brings together Disney+ and Hulu (with ads) for $12.99 per month. This is a great way to gain access to both of their libraries for only $1 more than what you'd pay for just one of the ad-supported plans on their own.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle — $12.99 per month

If you'd rather spring for the ad-free version of that bundle, Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium is what you need. This offers both Disney+ and Hulu without ads for $19.99 per month.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $19.99 per month

Best Disney+ monthly plans

Disney+ offers two standard plans if you just want the service on its own. The Disney+ ad-supported plan comes to $11.99 per month while the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan will set you back $18.99 per month or $189.99 per year if you'd rather pay annually.

• Disney+ (With Ads) — $11.99 per month

• Disney+ Premium (No Ads) — $18.99 per month, $189.99 per year

Disney+ has also created an "extra member" plan for people using your account that live outside of your household as they crack down on password sharing. If you're looking to add another person onto your account, you're only allowed one extra profile and can choose from the following add-on plans:

• Disney+ (With Ads) — $6.99 per month

• Disney+ Premium — $9.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle — $7.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $10.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle — $11.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium — $14.99 per month

There's a wealth of shows and films to check out on Disney+ after you sign up. If you want some help finding something to watch, check out our roundups of the 12 best TV shows for adults on Disney+ and the 20 best movies on Disney+ to start building out your watchlist.

There's no denying where Tina Romero's cinematic sensibilities came from. Her debut feature film, Queens of the Dead, is an entertaining and politically alert zombie movie. She's walking in the groundbreaking footsteps of her father, Night of the Living Dead director George A. Romero, who defined the zombie sub-genre for generations. However, centering her story in a queer community with LGBTQ+ performers, Tina Romero leans into comedy more than her dad did in his movies and creates a branch of zombie horror that brings new growth to the sub-genre.

Following a group of queer people and drag performers as they try to escape a zombie invasion in the Brooklyn club scene, Queens of the Dead is unlike any horror movie you've seen before. Like John Waters, Tina embraces camp and queerness without hesitation. The combination of classic zombies — with gray skin and shuffling steps — and drag queen-led humor gives Queens of the Dead an exciting clash of influences that makes for a uniquely thrilling movie. It's one that also happens to be studded with star power, boasting appearances from Love Lies Bleeding's Katy O'Brian, Mean Girls' Jaquel Spivey, Fire Island's Tomás Matos, I Saw the TV Glow's Jack Haven, National Anthem's Eve Lindley, RuPaul's Drag Race's Nina West, and Margaret Cho. 

Is Queens of the Dead set in the same world as Night of the Living Dead? Credit: Shannon Madden / Independent Film Company / Shudder

The answer is sort of! It's not that Tina's movie is in the same fictional world as her dad's frightening franchise. But it is set in a world where his movies exist. So, there's plenty of references. For instance, when an inexplicable plague hits New York City, the inept mayor (famed horror makeup artist and Dawn of the Dead star Tom Savini) is quick to insist that what's happening on the streets is not a George A. Romero scenario. Except it totally is. 

SEE ALSO: What to watch: Best scary movies

This cheeky reference allows Tina to diverge sharply from the path her father laid down while also paying tribute and setting up her heroes as people who've grown up in a world with zombies as part of their pop-cultural awareness. However, Queens of the Dead isn't going Scream-level meta, where this awareness will be a huge help to its heroes as they try to out-strategize their attackers. Queens of the Dead's motley crew of aspiring survivors are club kids, go-go dancers, drag queens, and party promoters, more equipped for an all-night rager than a horde of raging zombies. Even when they get what's going on, their array of props, costumes, and bartending supplies isn't really what you'd want to take on an army of the dead.

However, Queens of the Dead has a slasher-flick quality of fun because it's easy to look at this chaotic circle of friends and see a reflection of your own, wondering how your besties might fare if a night out dancing and drinking turned into fleeing a zombie horde. Tina invites us into the cool crowd and into the frightful entertainment. 

Queens of the Dead is for queer people by queer people.  Credit: Shannon Madden / Independent Film Company / Shudder

Katy O'Brian stars as Dre, a promoter whose make-or-break party at a gay bar in Brooklyn is thrown into peril when their headliner (Dominique Jackson) abruptly bails for a better gig. While at work at a hospital, Dre's wife, Lizzy (Riki Lindhome), urges her fellow nurse Sam (Jaquel Spivey) to resurrect his drag persona, Samyonce, to save the night. Turns out, stage fright will be the least of Sam's worries about returning to the club scene when a zombie-bit reveler wanders onto the dance floor. 

Inside the club, drag queens (Nina West), dancers (Tomás Matos), bar staff (Cheyenne Jackson, Jack Haven), Dre, and her lunkheaded brother-in-law Barry (Quincy Dunn-Baker) must overcome their differences to survive. Thankfully, reinforcements are on the way, including Dre's wife, a scrappy trans girl (Eve Lindley), and an activism team led by a drill-wielding Margaret Cho (making a Day of the Dead callback kill).

Don’t miss out on our latest stories: Add Mashable as a trusted news source in Google.

Like a classic Romero movie, the approach by Tina Romero and her co-writer Erin Judge offers a cross-section of people, creating a captivating and rich portrait of American life — in this case, queer American life. The scribes play with archetypes within the LGBTQ+ community, offering take-charge lesbians, freaked-out twinks, and drag queens whose bravery is practically superhero-level as they rise to the occasion, whatever the occasion. And there are deeper-cut jokes — like one about a femme lesbian complaining about her literal ax wound — that will have queer audiences absolutely howling. Even the zombies' appearances lean to queer comedy, as their skin may be sickening, but all that hollowed gray flesh with glitter in the mix creates a killer contour. 

Queens of the Dead is wild fun. Credit: Shannon Madden / Independent Film Company / Shudder

From the film's clever opening, Tina Romero is setting audiences up for a gleefully shocking and sensationally iconoclastic experience. Queens of the Dead begins with a shimmery drag queen (Julie J.) coming home so late from her night out that it's morning. So, she's in full body-suited sequens and glam as she's rolling into church for a moment of peace and prayer. (Michael Jackson's Thriller could never.) Then her hookup app chimes, alerting her that a potential beau is very close. She probes the rectory in search of a man of the cloth looking to get freaky. Unfortunately, this abs-rippling priest (Ahmad Maksoud) has already been bit. So our frisky, faithful queen will get a make-under, then return to the clubs she loves to haunt to become a true menace.

Out of the gate, Tina displays that drag queens are part of their communities, that the religious right is not so chaste as their preached politics might suggest, and that zombies can be undead and uncomfortably hot. If any of this sounds like too much for you to swallow, then Queens of the Dead is not for you. But if you're intrigued, then welcome in, and go with the flow.

Drenched in neon, steeped in attitude, and radiant with queer joy, this movie is beyond fine; it's fierce, funny, and fabulous. 

Queens of the Dead opens in theaters on Oct. 24.

In American media, a man cheating on his wife is often a source for tears, screaming, vengeance, murder-based TV shows, or one of the greatest concept albums of all time. So, when this American movie critic sat down for the Chinese documentary Mistress Dispeller, I brought my societal expectations with me, thinking I knew what I was in for. I was very, very wrong, but I found real pleasure in what this curious film offers instead. 

Hong Kong-born filmmaker Elizabeth Lo follows "mistress dispeller" Wang Zhenxi as she engages with a client, a middle-aged wife in China who is distraught that her husband has taken a younger mistress. The wife, called Mrs. Li in the film, tearfully unfurls her suspicions and the evidence that has brought her to this moment. But even as she is hurt, she explains ardently how kind her husband is, sharing a story of how he takes special care when cooking for her mother. 

This dizzying mix of feelings — anger and love — in the film's first act establishes the emotional complexity that is knit throughout Mistress Dispeller, which isn't interested in blame or salacious details. Instead, this remarkable documentary engages its audience through an earnest empathy with all three parties, and a daring openness between subject and filmmaker that is absolutely stunning. 

Mistress Dispeller is most shocking in how much its subjects share.  Director Elizabeth Lo filming Wang and Fei Fei behind the scenes of "Mistress Dispeller." Credit: Oscilloscope

How Mr. Li's affair has impacted his own life, as well as the lives of his wife and mistress, is revealed through simple scenes of day-to-day life. A woman getting her hair cut at a salon may seem mundane at first glance, but then you see the tear snaking out of her eye and down her cheeks as her expression struggles to stay stoic. More engaging, though, are the numerous dining scenes, where two (or three) of these subjects sit across from each other as an unblinking camera shoots them in profile. 

At first, it seems Lo is capturing only a casual conversation. But when Mr. Li looks from his companion into the camera's lens, we're reminded that he knows he's being watched. And yet, even then, he shares his secrets. Similarly, his mistress, Fei Fei, will open up in front of Lo's lens, defending her love of her married boyfriend, and even welcoming the crew to follow her away from date night and into her working day. Here, the polished, pale make-up and frilly, coquettish dress she wore to impress her man is gone, replaced by a cleaner face and simple streetwear as she zips around on a scooter unglamorously delivering frozen food. 

Lo doesn't lean on talking-head interviews or a narrator to step us through this story. She lets the words and actions of this tangle of people speak for itself. And while we may blanch at the feeling of voyeurism perhaps inherent in a documentary that delves into the nitty-gritty of a marriage in peril, a simple promise makes Mistress Dispeller extraordinary. 

Consent is key in Mistress Dispeller. 

In the opening credits of the film, a title card proclaims: 

"Everyone agreed to participate both at the beginning and end of production, as their understanding of the film and mistress dispeller's role evolved over time." 

What Mr. Li and Fei Fei think they're being filmed for initially isn't clear, as Wang's involvement with them begins undercover. Collaborating with Mrs. Li, she is introduced to the husband as a friend. Steadily, as she grows in his confidence, he opens up about Fei Fei, and introduces the two, calling Wang a "cousin." All the while, Wang is getting to understand each side of this love triangle, not to strategize the fastest way to break it up but the most compassionate way.

Operating without judgment, Wang aims to understand how Fei Fei came to be involved with Mr. Li, why he was drawn to her, and what they and Mrs. Li want now. She works the case like a psychological detective, determining motive through clues and covert interrogations involving badminton matches and mani/pedis. As she comes to see the messy emotions that built this puzzle of love and pain, she invites us to understand them too as the fly on her wall. It's an extraordinary thing, watching these people in moments of heady infatuation, crushing betrayal, and deep confusion, all while they know they're being filmed. The subjects' awareness of the cameras might mean there's a level of performance at play. But as they get to know Wang, it's easier and easier to believe the cameras they once stared at become just another piece of furniture as they chart their way forward. 

Mistress Dispeller is gorgeous to behold.  Fei Fei in "Mistress Dispeller." Credit: Oscilloscope

Lo also serves as the director of photography and co-editor on the film, and deserves praise for every role. As a director, she smartly hangs back, allowing the subjects to tell their story however they see fit. With editor Charlotte Munch Bengtsen, she takes what might be thought of as B-roll and assembles them into pieces that neatly construct a challenging narrative that has no real villain. As a cinematographer, she captures scenes of domestic simplicity, like a lunch together between husband, wife, and undercover mistress dispeller, with a keen eye for detail.

Along with a meditative pacing that gives big feelings room to breathe, there's often a charming symmetry in the framing, which not only makes for a pleasing image but also bolsters the film's emotional focus on balance. There is never only one side to a story, and the equal weight shared in such staging subtly reminds the audience of this simple, but often overlooked fact. 

This sense of balance is made all the more impactful in a finale where Mrs. Li and Fei Fei finally meet; conflict seems inevitable, but it won't play out like American media would have us expect. And yet, Wang sits at just of the center of the frame, not to take sides but to even out the power dynamic at play. Even without melodramatic moments of gnashed teeth and bellowed accusations, Lo's moving film captures heartache and humanity viscerally. More incredibly, through the story of one real marriage confronting an affair, she urges her audiences to reconsider the biases of shame and blame we've taken in through scads of more salacious media. It's not that Mistress Dispeller is preachy — far from it. Instead, this doc makes showing all sides look so easy that you might well wonder why it's not done more often. 

In the end, Mistress Dispeller is a marvel: elegantly constructed, ethically created, and thought-provokingly humane. 

Mistress Dispeller open in NYC on Oct. 22 and in LA on Oct. 24, with a national rollout to follow.

UPDATE: Oct. 16, 2025, 1:44 p.m. EDT This review was first published on Sept. 6, 2024. "Mistress Dispeller" was reviewed out of its North American premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.

FREE BOOKS: The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day takes place on Oct 22. Stuff Your Kindle: Crime Edition is offering free mystery, thriller, and suspense books for e-readers.

Opens in a new window Credit: Stuff Your Kindle: Crime Edition Stuff Your Kindle: Crime Edition (Oct. 22)   Learn More

The Stuff Your Kindle Day schedule has become somewhat stressful at times this year. And then we'll get absolutely nothing for weeks or months. Whoever coordinates everything seems to prefer to drop these events in waves. And folks, an absolutely giant wave is on the horizon.

We're entering into the busiest Stuff Your Kindle Day period of the year, with at least five events taking place before the end of October. That's a lot of free books, which isn't a bad thing. The problem will be staying on top of everything — this is where we can help you out.

This packed period of activity kicks off with Stuff Your Kindle: Crime Edition, going live on Oct. 22. This event is offering free mystery, thriller, and suspense reads for one day only. And better yet, the books that you download are yours to keep forever.

SEE ALSO: The best Kindle accessories for reading in luxury

Looking to make the most of the latest Stuff Your Kindle Day? We've lined up everything you need to know about this popular event.

When is Stuff Your Kindle Day?

Stuff Your Kindle: Crime Edition takes place on Oct. 22. A lot of recent Stuff Your Kindle Days have stretched out over a few days, providing participants with the opportunity to take their time and consider all options. This latest event only lasts through the day, so you'll need to act fast to stock up on everything you want to read. Given how many events are stacking up on the schedule over the next week or so, we're OK with this limited-time event. We need time to recover before the next launch.

Who can take part in Stuff Your Kindle Day?

The great thing about Stuff Your Kindle Day (besides all the free books) is that anyone can participate. Kindle, Kobo, and Nook readers can download these books for free. You can even download these books on your preferred app and read them directly from your phone.

Which e-books are free?

Finding the free mystery, thriller, and suspense books is straightforward thanks to the helpful hub page that tells you exactly what you need to do:

• Use BOOKS to browse all free reads by category

• Use the SEARCH feature to look up authors, filter by preferred retailer, find specific keywords or subcategories, and remove explicit content

• Use ALERTS to sign up for future email alerts about the next Stuff Your Kindle: Crime Edition

Is Stuff Your Kindle Day the same as Amazon Kindle Unlimited?

Everything you download on Stuff Your Kindle Day is yours to keep forever, and there's no limit on the number of books you can download. Stuff Your Kindle Day downloads don't count towards the 20 books that Amazon Kindle Unlimited subscribers can borrow at the same time. There's no reason to hold back.

The best Stuff Your Kindle Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite + Kindle Unlimited (3-Month Plan)   Get Deal Why we like it

These popular e-readers help you take your entire library on the go. With weeks of battery life and an anti-glare display, you can read anywhere and anytime with the Kindle Paperwhite. Prices start at $159.99, but if you want to secure a better deal, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited for free. What better way to get started?

Hedda Gabler is a glorious bitch, and Tessa Thompson was born to play her. First unleashed upon the world in the titular 1891 play by Henrik Ibsen, Hedda Gabler would go on to become a figure so compelling and conniving that actresses for over a century — from Ingrid Bergman to Diana Rigg, Maggie Smith to Cate Blanchett — have relished the opportunity to play her. But Thompson, in Nia DaCosta's fiery reimagining Hedda, takes this role to rich and wild new places, and it's a devilish thrill to witness. 

Thompson and DaCosta previously collaborated on the latter's directorial debut, the critically heralded drama Little Woods, in 2018. By the time they reteamed five years later for The Marvels, both had grown far more famous. DaCosta had helmed the much-anticipated reboot of Candyman, while Thompson had become a favorite in the MCU as the hard-drinking, shit-talking Valkyrie. Fitting then that these two should reunite for Hedda, which centers on a similar character in those provocative respects. However, this antiheroine prefers pistols over swords, and sinister social manipulations over snarled insults. 

SEE ALSO: 'Hedda' trailer: Tessa Thompson is giving glamor in sapphic romance

Making several major changes to Hedda Gabler, DaCosta crafts a splendid showcase for Thompson, cementing her as a cinematic siren of the modern age, one who should be compared to the likes of Gloria Swanson, Bette Davis, and Glenn Close. They all played women who were dangerous, devilish, and even deranged, and we love them for every wild moment. 

Nia DaCosta's Hedda is bold, brash, and queer.  Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

As Hedda's screenwriter, DaCosta transplants Ibsen's late 19th-century story to 1954 England, allowing for the spectacle of flouncing ballgowns and bohemian flair. Both will be on kinetic display during the action of the play, condensed down to a single party thrown over one long night by the eponymous antiheroine. 

Fresh from her honeymoon with her her proper but boring husband George Tesman (Tom Bateman), newlywed Hedda (Thompson) is eager to show off their obscenely luxurious home, complete with a sprawling lawn and pond. But before the party even begins, trouble brews with the arrival of some unwelcome guests. Neither gets a warm reception from Hedda. 

The powerful and opportunistic Judge Roland Brack (Nicholas Pinnock) comes with worrisome news and leering eyes, which Hedda meets with a playful fire from her late father's military pistols. Her former schoolmate Thea Clifton (Imogen Poots) fares no better, dressed up like a doll then dressed down like a fool as she spills her heart out to Hedda. Thea is looking to leave her husband and take up with the hot professor with whom she's written a scientific manuscript they believe will have a huge impact. Poor Thea doesn't realize that this professor — genderswapped here as Eileen Lovborg (Nina Hoss) — was Hedda's old flame, and one of them barely survived that breakup. 

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When Eileen arrives at Hedda's party, she is an embodiment of feminine power. Costume designer Lindsay Pugh dresses Hoss in a gown that is both hard and soft, accentuating her broad shoulders and robust bust. She looks like the figurehead of a mighty ship, ready to surge forth into a future unknown. Unfortunately for her, Hedda has plans, treating every member of this packed party like playthings for her own dark amusements. 

Tessa Thompson is a vision of longing and vengeance in Hedda.  Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

Draped in silk gloves, pearls, and gowns cinched and tailored to perfection, Hedda is gorgeous and glamorous. She babies her bangs. She wears the key to her gun chest dangling in her décolletage. And she tops it all off with a blood-red lipstain that perfectly accentuates Thompson's signature smirk. From her first appearance, it's clear Hedda lives for trouble. 

Partiers whispering secrets will spill her painful backstory, which seems to glint like the edge of a knife in Thompson's eyes — even when she's all smiles for her guests. But the core of Hedda Gabler is a razor-sharp wit paired with an unabashed cruelty. The world has dared to bore Hedda, and so she will gladly watch it burn. Hell, she'll strike the match if need be. 

Thompson captures this devil-may-care attitude with a fluid physicality, whether twirling on a dance floor, capering through a hedge maze, or escaping deadly dull small talk. There's an enviable freedom in Hedda's recklessness in such moments. But in her vulnerable moments, it's clear she's in a gilded cage of her own making with no easy way out. So, she rages not at the bars but at those whose freedom she envies. 

While other actors have played the role with restraint, Thompson's Hedda has a ball raising hell, and it's a fabulous thrill to watch her. She's lit up from desire, be it sexual, poltitical, or self-destructive. And with every raised eyebrow, sultry smirk, or purred barb, she is exhilarating. Props to Hoss, who plays the only character who can match Hedda's will. Hoss exudes a dizzying confidence, and shares an electrifying sexual chemistry with Thompson — and Poots, for that matter. Through her steadfast screen presence, she ties the love story together, because of who wouldn't be wooed by this Eileen?

Hedda goes big with style, sex, and rage.  Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

Though set in an English estate, DaCosta rejects the somberness and restraint of many a British period piece. Hedda's barbs may be subtle at times, but her movie is full of attitude, energy, and color. Cinematographer Sean Bobbitt practically chases her around this stately home, as if a jealous lover desperate to keep an eye on her. The suaveness of the camera's movement as it graces across her face, her gown, and her gathering of revelers reflects the control Hedda has over all in her circle. The film's color palette is rich in gold hues, warm and all the better to enhance a blushing cheek or a throbbing bosom. And perhaps on a symbolic level this hue reminds the viewer, "all that glitters is not gold." 

The production design and costumes ooze with sex appeal and excess — textures, pearls, and prints adorn every limb, wall, and surface. Captured so carefully by Bobbitt's lens, you can practically feel the lace, velvet, and taffeta on your fingertips. Like in Saltburn, a queer thriller about jealousy, lust, and sinister social-climbing, this reveling in the richness of Hedda's surroundings visually communicates the antihero's ambitions for wealth and status, but also gives these things a sensuality, connecting them to what (or who) must be sacrificed to achieve them. 

Then, to bolster all this lushness, music supervisor Mandy Mamlet brings into play cover songs like "Gopher Mambo" and "It's Oh So Quiet" (famously covered by Björk in 2003), which reflect Hedda's thirst for excitement and love. Dash prim orchestrations and swelling strings, give me a chartreuse bellowing into the microphone with the ferocity of an animal captured — or a woman in unreciprocated love. 

Altogether, DaCosta's vision is one rich in queer longing, decadent drama, and unapologetic excess. Hedda Gabler is an iconic role, one that's fascinated audiences and actresses for generations because of her undeniable viciousness and inarguable charms. Here, DaCosta and Thompson make her their own, folding in themes of queerness, race, and gender politics through casting, and digging in with changes to Ibsen's original story. In this way, Hedda's rage becomes more specific and universal, while still achingly timeless. 

But even if you've never seen a Hedda Gabler, it's easy to fall for Hedda. Sumptuous, hot, and challenging, this is a drama of love, sex, and regret that burns like a shot of whisky, so good you'll want to go at it again. 

Hedda was reviewed out of the Toronto International Film Festival. The movie will open in the U.S. in select theaters on Oct. 22, with an expansion on Oct. 29.

SAVE $150: As of Oct. 22, the 2025 Apple MacBook Air M4 is on sale for $849 at Amazon. That's a 15% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2025 Apple MacBook Air M4 $849 at Amazon
$999 Save $150   Get Deal

MacBook discounts are always a treat, especially when you get them on popular models like the 2025 Apple MacBook Air. This MacBook is no stranger to discounts, and if you've missed out on any of the earlier discounts, you're in luck because it's on sale once again.

As of Oct. 22, you can get it for just $849. However, only the midnight color is reduced to this price. For $50 more you can choose the sky blue or starlight, but the silver model is at full price right now. The midnight color is stunning, so there's no issue here.

SEE ALSO: Get the M4 MacBook Pro for cheaper than it was on Prime Day

This is a super powerful laptop thanks to the M4 chip. This power means you can easily jump between apps, editing software, or games with little to no lag. Yes, the M5 chip is a thing now. But that doesn't mean the M4 chip has suddenly become obsolete.

With this model you're getting a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, making everything clear and colorful. The battery life is a big selling point too, promising to last up to 18 hours, so it's perfect for work on the go. And speaking of work, your teams calls just got way better thanks to the 12MP Center Stage camera, three mics, and four speakers with Spatial Audio. With all this, you'll look and sound great every time you video chat.

Pick up this great MacBook deal from Amazon now.

SAVE $350: As of Oct. 22, the Shark AV2501AE AI robot vacuum is on sale for $299.99 at Amazon. That's a 54% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark AV2501AE AI $299.99 at Amazon
$649.99 Save $350   Get Deal

Robot vacuums are one of the best smart home investments. A machine doing your cleaning for you? Now that's living.

As of Oct. 22, the Shark AV2501AE AI robot vacuum is reduced to its lowest-ever price at Amazon. The sale price is $299.99, saving you $350 on list price.

SEE ALSO: I tested 25 robot vacuum and mop combos and found 5 that actually scrub

This vacuum really does do everything for you. Its bagless, self-emptying base holds up to 60 days of dirt, so you rarely need to manually empty it. It also uses 360-degree LiDAR vision to map your home for precise cleaning and adapts to any changes in your space, i.e. some new furniture.

If you've got pets, this vacuum is the perfect companion thanks to the self-cleaning brush roll and strong suction. And with up to 120 minutes of runtime and the Recharge and Resume feature, it automatically returns to the dock to recharge and then continues exactly where it left off. It can even be voice-controlled through Alexa or the Google Assistant. Just tell it to go, schedule a clean, or return to the dock. How easy is that?

Get this robot vacuum deal from Amazon.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025:

AcrossRoomful of students

• The answer is Class.

Something to bring in a brown paper bag

• The answer is Lunch.

___ Harbor, sightseeing area of Baltimore

• The answer is Inner.

Where many Stephen King novels are set

• The answer is Maine.

Beagle or bulldog

• The answer is Breed.

DownGo bouldering, e.g.

• The answer is Climb.

___ New Year

• The answer is Lunar.

Redhead of musical/movie fame

• The answer is Annie.

Something an actor might steal

• The answer is Scene.

Tear to pieces

• The answer is Shred.

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 today's Mini Crossword.

October has been a fun month for celestial events, with both the Draconids and the Orionids meteor showers dazzling our skies. The Draconids happened earlier in the month, while the Orionids have been active for a few weeks now. But don't feel bad if you've not seen any yet, the Orionids only peak this week, so you've not missed your best chance to see a shooting star.

As we approach the main days, we've pulled together all the information you need for viewing and understanding what it's all really about.

What is the Orionids meteor shower?

Like the name suggests, the Orionids meteors come from the constellation, Orion. The actual meteor shower happens when tiny grains of dust and ice left behind by comet 1P/Halley enter Earth’s atmosphere and burn up, producing bright streaks of light across the sky, NASA tells us.

They are very fast, traveling at around 41 miles (66 kilometers) per second, and often leave glowing “trains." Some of the brighter meteors even become fireballs, creating spectacular flashes of light. AKA, what we see when we look up at the sky.

When will the Orionids meteor shower peak?

NASA data reveals the Orionids meteor shower will take place between Oct. 2 - Nov. 12. , but the peak is expected to be Oct. 22 - 23.

How to see the Orionids meteor shower

To see one of the Orionids meteors, you follow the advice you'd expect; wait until dark, try and get as far away from light pollution as you can, and make sure you give your eyes time to adjust to the light (ever noticed that the longer you're outside, the more stars you can see?). NASA also advises heading out after midnight and lying with your feet facing southeast if you are in the Northern Hemisphere or northeast if you are in the Southern Hemisphere.

Cloud coverage is important too, and can really impact your visibility. Before heading out, check the coverage forecast for your area.

Parker Shi, vice president of GWM Group and president of GWM International, considers U.S. President Donald Trump to be the most successful man in the world by certain metrics. Yet at the same time, Trump remains a significant obstacle in the Chinese automaker's quest to access a global market.

"[People are] looking for power, looking for money, and they're looking for name. Right? Donald Trump is the one," Shi told his audience during GWM's global Tech Day in Australia earlier this month. "But what's the business looking for? Brand, volume, profit. Volume can be replaced by market share."

GWM's Tech Day was part of its international branding efforts, bringing some of its top executives to Melbourne to discuss the company's plans for global growth. Though China is the largest auto market in the world, GWM is one of many EV manufacturers whose ambitions extend well beyond their home country's borders. The company has been in the Australian market since 2009, when it became the first Chinese automaker to sell its cars in the country.

SEE ALSO: Chinese EVs are spreading across the globe, but not in the U.S.

Yet while GWM aims to be a notable player on the global EV scene, the sizable yet inaccessible U.S. market continues to present a glaring challenge to these ambitions — as it does for all Chinese automakers.

When will GWM's vehicles enter the U.S. market? Credit: Courtesy of GWM

Speaking to Mashable, Shi confirmed that GWM had been looking to enter the U.S. market by 2021, having conducted research, planned products, and even set up infrastructure and employees. Unfortunately, political issues and tariffs have put such plans on hold indefinitely.

"We prepared for the USA market for many years," said Shi. "We have the building there, we have the R&D team there. But because of the political issues, obviously, it's not the right time to make the plan for USA. So this is an open secret. I don't need to deny anything. It's because of the political issues it's difficult to invest [in a] manufacturing plant over there."

Specifically, Shi noted the high customs duties and tariffs the U.S. currently imposes upon EVs from China. Such vehicles were previously subject to a standard 2.5 percent tariff until Trump's first term in 2018, when he introduced an additional 25 percent tariff on Chinese goods. President Joe Biden subsequently increased tariffs further to 100 percent in 2024. 

U.S. tariffs on Chinese EVs have since fluctuated wildly under the current Trump administration, at one point skyrocketing to a whopping 247.5 percent. Understandably, such factors mean that the costs of investing in the U.S. currently outweigh the benefits.

"[If] you want to go there [to the U.S.], you have to put your money to build the factories or to acquire the factories," said Shi. "We do have the product suitable for the USA market. But the problem is the investment of the manufacturing has become difficult. It's a barrier. Direct investment is needed for USA market."

GWM does still have ambitions in the U.S., with Shi stating that the company is reluctant to give up the chance to tap into such a large market. Even so, entering the U.S. simply isn't feasible while the U.S. administration remains actively hostile toward Chinese automakers. When raising tariffs on Chinese EVs last year, Biden claimed that the Chinese government's EV subsidy programs enable Chinese companies to "cheat" by selling cars at "unfairly low prices," leaving U.S. manufacturers unable to compete. 

"We have some business in Mexico…. but now it's also changing," said Shi, acknowledging U.S. officials' fears that Chinese automakers could go through Mexico to supply their cars to American drivers. China is Mexico's leading auto supplier. "They're supposed to stop Chinese investment in Mexico. Maybe they are thinking we are using Mexico as the base to export to USA. It's a little bit complicated."

GWM courts international markets that aren't the U.S. Credit: Courtesy of GWM

In the meantime, GWM has turned its attention to other countries such as Australia. The company took up residence in Victoria's Lang Lang Proving Grounds earlier this year in order to test and tweak its vehicles for Australian conditions, adapting its approach depending on different countries' specific needs. Shi emphasised that GWM aims to work with and understand people in different regions, noting that only 10 of GWM's 110 employees in Australia are from China.

"With the local, for the local. With the Thai, for the Thai. With the Australian, for the Australian," said Shi. "This is the kind of philosophy [which guides us].... You must make yourself more local. Not only brand. Product, service, operations…. Everything must be local."

Such considerations appear to be part of the reason why GWM doesn't only manufacture EVs, also offering petrol and hybrid vehicles such as its Tank 300 and Cannon Alpha. Lack of infrastructure and charging facilities have slowed EV uptake in some markets, with the level of government support and incentives varying significantly between different areas. 

As such, Shi acknowledged that there's still a need for traditional petrol-powered vehicles, particularly in countries which may not yet have the budget for widespread implementation of EV facilities. GWM is hoping to meet international customers where they are in the meantime.

"We believe new energy vehicles could be the future," said Shi. "Of course, for the China market, definitely because the government gives a lot of support, incentive, tax reductions, so the EV penetration is very high.… So that's why if you're talking about the new energy vehicles in China, it's over 50 percent market share. But the other markets I think could be slow because the government incentives or government support is very limited."

"Some markets we understand, petrol, diesel, especially for commercial vehicles… [continue to remain] for a long time because facilities for charging, they need time [to be built]. And budget from the government to encourage the electronic vehicles, to encourage the plug-in hybrid vehicles, [is] still very slow….

"We try to follow the [future] trend, of course," Shi continued. "EV could be very good for the environment, could be a great convenience. But we believe that different countries may have different usage scenarios."

Shi offered the example of Australians driving between Melbourne and Sydney, two cities which are approximately 544 mi (876 km) apart. In such a scenario, drivers may be anxious about making it to the next charger. Further, Shi speculated that what chargers are available may be less advanced and take a significant amount of time to charge. As such, he suggested that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles would be more suited to cross-country driving, noting that GWM's small Ora EV is designed for city use.

"This is why we are not investing [in] big models, big cars for EV," Shi continued. "Some other Chinese players, they have a five metre-big SUV…. We're not doing that. We have the capabilities to do that, but we don't think that's going to be the future. Especially [as] we are facing the global market. So different scenarios, different needs."

Working to secure data, trust, and market share Credit: Courtesy of GWM

For GWM, expanding outside of China "is a must." However, foreign governments have expressed increasing suspicion towards Chinese tech companies in recent years, accusing them of giving the Chinese government access to customers' data. Though there is no public evidence that this is occurring, the possibility has lawmakers leery. As such, Chinese companies with global aspirations have had to allocate significant resources into reassuring governments and countering such wariness.

"If you try to be a global player in different countries, we have to follow the rules and regulations of the countries," said Shi. "This is the bottom line. This is number one."

As part of this, Shi states that GWM keeps customer data on servers within their respective country. For example, Australian drivers' data is kept on Australian servers.

"We have isolated the customer data, because the customer data is very, very sensitive," said Shi. "This is the law…. We have to follow the law and [ensure GWM is in] compliance. This is the bottom line. You don't cross the bottom line. You cross the bottom line, you're going to burn your hand…. We don't want to, [in the] short term, make something easy [and end up with a] lot of leaking, leaking, leaking a lot of the customer's data. No, no, no. This is not allowed."

GWM has been in Australia for almost two decades now. As of July, GWM was the seventh-best selling automaker in the country this year, and the number one best-selling Chinese auto brand. The company is still continuing to grow its foothold, announcing during Tech Day that its new Tank 500 plug-in hybrid seven-seater SUV will cost Australians $AU79,990 driveaway — approximately $US52,000.

Unfortunately, it will still be a long while before U.S. drivers can test out GWM's vehicles themselves.

"I think we have the capability [to enter the U.S. market]. We have the product, we have the technology, we have the experience in global operation," Shi told Mashable. "We are planning, we are observing, we are watching. We are watching how the USA policies [are] changing…. We have the team over there, but with the administration change, everything's changed. Sorry for that!"

Are you still using a free VPN in 2025? You probably shouldn't be. The simple act of browsing the web, which most of us take for granted, is already fraught with potential vulnerabilities, from data trackers to malicious attacks. Installing dodgy software like free VPNs is just asking for trouble, and potentially giving bad actors a back door into your network. And while a basic Virtual Private Network (VPN) offers a foundational layer of protection by encrypting internet traffic and masking IP addresses, the modern threat landscape necessitates a more comprehensive solution.

So if you’re in the market for a new VPN. It’s important to know that for just a little more each month, you could unlock a whole host of digital-life-changing features. Here are a few of the key features you should look for:

Network Speeds

One of the most immediately noticeable benefits of upgrading to a premium VPN is the improvement in network performance. Unlike many basic or free VPNs that will usually slow your connection down, and impose invisible bandwidth limitations, paid services are typically engineered for speed and reliability. This reduces latency and maintains a fast, consistent connection for streaming and large file downloads. The performance aspect is crucial, as it removes the primary barrier to consistent VPN usage: turning it off because of lengthy load times, or slow download speeds.

Enhanced Security Features

Beyond the fundamental VPN features, a key differentiator of a premium service is its multifaceted security infrastructure. A standard VPN provides a secure tunnel for data, but it often doesn’t protect against external threats encountered on a website. Paid VPN packages integrate features like AI-powered protection against scams, phishing, and malware. It’s a layer of proactive defence that actively scans for and helps block malicious content before it can compromise a device, whether it's a PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone. This is a crucial addition in an era where social engineering and sophisticated phishing campaigns are increasingly common.

Password Managers

The inclusion of a robust Password Manager within your VPN simplifies the creation and secure storage of unique, complex passwords. The safest passwords are long, complicated text strings, far too complex to remember. Having a dedicated, encrypted vault to store these passwords is one of the safest ways to protect your accounts.

Parental Controls

For parents, the integration of Parental Control features is a major advantage. This functionality allows for the management of children’s screen time, content filtering to block unsuitable material, and provides insights into their online behaviour, such as their search terms and video viewing history. This capability transforms the VPN from a simple tool for individual security into a comprehensive, family cybersafety solution, offering a means to guide and protect minors in the digital realm.

Cross Platform Access

If you’re going to pay for a service, you would hope that you could use it across your various devices. Choose a premium VPN that works on both Mac and/or PC (depending on your stack), and also provides user-friendly access on your mobile devices and tablets via a dedicated app.

Tracker Blocking

Additionally, some premium VPNs offer built-in tracker blockers. These help to block tracking cookies that run on all sorts of websites. The result is a more private browsing session and a significant reduction in the volume of targeted advertising. This is where our current pick, Norton VPN Ultimate, really shines.

While a basic VPN provides a necessary level of data privacy, a modern, fully-featured VPN service like Norton VPN Ultimate is a transformative tool. By combining high-speed, reliable connectivity with integrated protection against malware, tracker blocking, and advanced security features. If you’re seeking even greater anonymity, advanced features like IP Rotation and Double VPN, where your connection is routed through multiple locations, offer a level of privacy that goes well beyond the capabilities of a standard VPN. On top of this, Dark Web Monitoring notifies users if their personal information is found on illicit marketplaces, providing a warning system for potential identity theft.

The investment in such a comprehensive solution is not merely about security; it is about reclaiming control over their digital life and ensuring a safer, more private, and more efficient experience for everyone in your household. For more information, check out the Norton Australia website.

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

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

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

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

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

To taint.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

SULLY

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Archaic.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

MOSSY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Found in a burger.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

PATTY

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Unoriginal.

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

TRITE

Final Hurdle hint

Capable.

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

ABLED

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