Blogroll

Jurassic Parks cheekiest dinosaur gets a great cameo in Jurassic World Rebirth

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

As expected with the franchise, Jurassic World Rebirth is filled to the brim with dinosaurs, all of which fluctuate between attempted scientific accuracy and plain fiction.

But one of the cheekiest dinosaurs of the Jurassic series makes a fleeting cameo in director Gareth Edwards' new film, causing fans to remember what happened to poor ol' Dennis Nedry in Steven Spielberg's 1993 original.

Dilophosaurus, the careful predator with its phenomenal frilled neckwear and dastardly little chirps and "whee" calls, turns up in Jurassic World Rebirth on Ile Saint-Hubert, the InGen facility used to develop dinosaurs for the original park.

SEE ALSO: 'Jurassic World Rebirth' review: Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey face off with dangerous and delightful dinosaurs

You might remember Dilophosaurus from such iconic Hollywood moments as the demise of crooked computer programmer Nedry (Wayne Knight) in the original film, Jurassic Park. Foolishly attempting to flee the park on Isla Nublar with stolen dinosaur embryos on a tempestuous night, Nedry is stalked by Dilophosaurus into his Jeep and then eaten for dinner.

Dilophosaurus hasn't made many appearances in the Jurassic franchise since, and never quite scientifically accurately. It shows up as a hologram in Jurassic World and a statue in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. There's one frankly disrespectful scene in Jurassic World Dominion in which Dilophosaurus stalks Bryce Dallas Howard's character Claire Dearing, but is then unceremoniously choked by Chris Pratt's Owen Grady and tasered by DeWanda Wise's Kayla Watts. The level of derision, of diabolical mockery in this scene! It must be undone.

Luckily, in the new film, Dilophosaurus gets the respect it deserves, albeit fleetingly. Teresa (Luna Blaise) encounters Dilophosaurus snacking on a dead Parasaurolophus beside the emergency raft shelter she's trying to raid. And while the threat of Dilophosaurus is quickly upstaged by another, bigger carnivore, at least this time, this clever dino gets both a snack and a movie cameo.

Jurassic World Rebirth opens in cinemas on July 2.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jurassic World Rebirth Easter egg pays homage to the original film

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

We've reached the seventh film in the Jurassic Park/World franchise, so we're living in a world of inevitably abundant fan service. In the latest movie, Jurassic World Rebirth, there are a few small moments that keen-eyed fans will spot that are references to either Steven Spielberg's original film or author Michael Crichton's books, the real roots of the franchise.

But the best of these pays homage to the original Jurassic Park finale and iconic banner moment.

SEE ALSO: 'Jurassic World Rebirth' review: Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey face off with dangerous and delightful dinosaurs What's that banner in Jurassic World Rebirth?

In the final moments of Spielberg's 1993 classic Jurassic Park, when the mighty T-rex saves our heroes from that door-opening pair of velociraptors in the park lobby, the bipedal carnivore issues a resounding roar as a "When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth" exhibition banner floats to the ground.

It's an all-time Hollywood moment, one referenced in Jurassic World Rebirth in the scene when we meet Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey) in the Museum of Natural History. While Loomis speaks to Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson) and Martin Krebs (Rupert Friend) about the film's core mission, an identical banner floats to the ground behind the T-rex skull.

The thing is, that banner is now as superfluous as Loomis' department, with dinosaurs having roamed the Earth again for the last three decades. They're old news, holding up traffic in Manhattan. And speaking of...

There's another early Easter egg in Jurassic World Rebirth

In an early Jurassic World Rebirth scene when dubious rich guy Krebs is held up in traffic by a large, long-necked dinosaur in Manhattan — ugh, what a prehistoric inconvenience — he passes a school bus in his car. On the side of the vehicle, you can see the words "Crichton Middle School," a reference to Michael Crichton, the author of the Jurassic Park books.

How many Easter eggs did you spot in Jurassic World Rebirth? Keep your eyes peeled.

Jurassic World Rebirth is in theaters from July 2.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jonathan Baileys slutty little glasses are a cinematic staple, actually

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

It's 2025, and it seems that culture is finally ready to acknowledge an immutable fact — a fact that some of us have been banging on about for years. Namely, that there is nothing hotter than a man in "slutty little glasses."

Thanks to Jonathan Bailey, it is quickly shaping up to be the summer of the "slutty little glasses." If you've managed to sidestep the internet for the past few months, allow me to explain. Certified heartthrob Jonathan Bailey of Bridgerton and Wicked fame stars in one of this summer's biggest blockbusters, Jurassic World Rebirth. As Dr. Henry Loomis, Bailey is an earnest, dino-loving paleontologist with a heart of gold and a very beautiful face — a face upon which is perched a very delicate pair of glasses. Cubitts, to be precise, made with ultra-thin hexagonal titanium frames.

Or, "slutty little glasses," as culture commentator Blakely Thornton has dubbed them. What makes "slutty little glasses" such an apt description? Is it the dainty, wire-thin frame? The whimsical playfulness of the hexagonal shape? Or is it simply the way they lend an extra dash of boyish charm to Bailey's handsome features?

SEE ALSO: 'Jurassic World Rebirth' review: Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey face off with dangerous and delightful dinosaurs

Whatever it is, from the moment Entertainment Weekly's first look pictures of Bailey in Jurassic World Rebirth dropped back in December 2024, the internet collapsed into a veritable tizzy. "Jonathan Bailey is truly the king of slutty little glasses," wrote one appreciator on X. "I think Jonathan Bailey in slutty little glasses should lowkey be in the future history books," wrote another. Since then, the phrase has come up again and again on social media and in the Jurassic World Rebirth press tour. But this is more than a thirst moment.

Happy "slutty little glasses" summer Jonathan Bailey wears "slutty little glasses" in "Jurassic World: Rebirth." Credit: Jasin Boland / Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment

Bailey himself has embraced the general delirium surrounding his glasses, wearing various pairs of sexy little specs to practically every press event for Rebirth. He has happily spoken about them in countless interviews — the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, MTV UK, Extra, and the Today Show, to name a few. (And yes, the phrase "slutty little glasses" does sound utterly delectable in his accent.)

The Jurassic World Rebirth star is even taking this sartorial moment to the next level, announcing a new collaboration between Cubitts and Bailey's own LGBTQ rights charity, The Shameless Fund. The British spectacles company has launched a pink-tinted pair of frames named "Loomis" after Bailey's character; they’re described in the product details as having "an unapologetic confidence." The frames cost $250, with 50 percent of proceeds going to The Shameless Fund.

The "Loomis" frames by Cubitts and The Shameless Fund. Credit: Cubitts

"I’m thrilled that people are having a hormonal explosion linked to optical supports," Bailey told Entertainment Tonight at a Rebirth premiere in June. "Glasses can go a long way." In the same red carpet interview, Bailey called for a "summer of slutty glasses." He gets it. 

The origins and double standard of "slutty little glasses"

In practically every interview about the trend, Bailey credits Thornton with coming up with the phrase "slutty little glasses."

In a video on Instagram posted in January, Thornton praised Bailey ahead of Rebirth's release, saying, "He was born to have a line of slutty little glasses… On and off screen, he is constantly refuting the Laney Boggs law of cinema that says characters with glasses are less f*ckable."

Referring to the female nerd (played by the stunning Rachael Leigh Cook) in 1999's She's All That who only becomes "hot" once she takes off her glasses, Thornton touches on the gendered double standard of glasses in cinema. There are countless female makeover scenes in movies that follow a similar pattern of nerd-to-hottie once their glasses are ditched. See The Princess Diaries, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and Miss Congeniality, for a few examples. Even last year's Wicked saw Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba ditching her spectacles to catch the eye of Bailey himself as the dashing Fiyero.

Basically, "slutty little glasses" on women don't typically appeal to the Male Gaze, while "slutty little glasses" on men do appeal to women and queer people. Of course, there are exceptions — the "hot librarian" trope is well established, too —  think the bespectacled Rachel Weisz in The Mummy and Velma in Scooby-Doo. While women in cinema usually have to take off their glasses to finally be seen as the hotties they are, men have to put them on. And suddenly, the girls and gays go weak in the knees.

Bailey is just the latest leading man to utilize this sartorial tool for making an audience swoon. Cinema's love affair with "slutty little glasses" and their equally "slutty" but more substantial, thicker-framed predecessors, goes back decades — and Bailey's character in Jurassic World Rebirth slots very nicely into the canon.

The cinema history of "slutty little glasses"  Michael Keaton in "Batman Returns," Hugh Grant in "Four Weddings and a Funeral," and Matt Damon in "The Talented Mr. Ripley." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: Warner Bros/Dc Comics/Kobal/Shutterstock / Polygram/Channel 4/Working Title/Kobal/Shutterstock / Moviestore/Shutterstock

Surprisingly sexy eyewear of all shapes and sizes can be found on countless leading men throughout cinematic history. Although glasses have become a recurring supporting player in the rom-com oeuvre, they have also found their way into other genres, cropping up in prestige dramas (see Robert Redford in Three Days of the Condor, Sidney Poitier in Pressure Point, Matt Damon in The Talented Mr. Ripley) and even a few blockbuster action flicks (see Michael Keaton when he's musing as Bruce Wayne in Batman, or anyone who is tasked with playing Clark Kent). 

As for notable examples, I must begin by mentioning dashing Golden Age romantic comedy hero Cary Grant as Dr. David Huxley in the 1938 rom-com classic Bringing Up Baby. Like Bailey's Dr. Loomis, Dr. Huxley is a sweet, somewhat bumbling paleontologist. He just wants to be alone peering at his bones through his — what we'd now call — "slutty little glasses." Unfortunately, Katherine Hepburn as Susan, an eccentric rich girl, finds this absent-minded hot nerd irresistible, and so she whisks him off on a kooky caper. There's a leopard involved. It's delightful.

Cary Grant in "Bringing Up Baby," Gregory Peck in "To Kill a Mockingbird," and Sidney Poitier in "Pressure Point." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images // Silver Screen Collection/Hulton Archive/Getty Images // United Artists/Getty Images

Another honorable mention goes to debonaire leading man Gregory Peck in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962). As Atticus Finch, Peck portrayed one of cinema's most beloved good guys — a lawyer who fights tirelessly for justice and equality in a racist American Deep South in the 1930s. And Atticus was a loving, if slightly tortured, single dad to boot. (It's no wonder he became the focus of a baby-naming trend in 2015.) Peck's rounded retro frames went oh-so-well with his three-piece linen suit — they also complemented the tendril of hair that fell across his troubled brow during particularly stressful moments in court. Like Bailey's specs, Peck's iconic eyewear eventually spawned their own model for purchase: Oliver Peoples' "Atticus" frames

Following the theme of romantic heroes with professorial appeal is Ryan O'Neal in 1972's What's Up, Doc?. As Dr. Howard Bannister, he is a rather gormless musicologist who specializes in the musical properties of rocks. (Yes, rocks.) Barbra Streisand as Judy, an unpredictable and spontaneous college dropout, spies this dreamboat in elbow patches, is instantly smitten, and proceeds to chase him around a San Francisco hotel for a couple of days. After one particularly chaotic whirlwind of an evening, courtesy of Judy, Howard is left dazed in his hotel room wearing nothing but a plaid bowtie, his underwear, and, of course, his glasses. Director Peter Bogdanovich knew what he was doing.

Though Harrison Ford might be best known for his macho roles as the smirking smuggler Han Solo in the Star Wars movies, or rugged adventurer Indiana Jones, even he has "slutty little glasses" moments of note. When he's not globe-trotting after an artifact and is instead being a crush-worthy college professor, Ford complements his circular pair with a bow tie and tweed jacket in 1984's Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and later in 1989's Indiana follow-up, The Last Crusade. And he did it again to play Linus Larrabee, a curmudgeonly business man unexpectedly falling in love in the 1995 remake of the 1954 rom-com classic Sabrina.

Harrison Ford in "Sabrina," Ryan O'Neal in "What's Up, Doc?" and Robert Redford in "Three Days of the Condor" Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: Hulton Archive/Getty Images // Screen Archives/Getty Images // Screen Archives/Getty Images

Glasses crop up in a number of more recent classic rom-coms, too. Hugh Grant's Charles in Four Weddings and a Funeral would not be nearly so charming without his tortoiseshell frames and floppy hair. The actor dons a slimmer pair in Notting Hill during a couple of particularly emotionally vulnerable scenes — once when he's watching Julia Roberts's Anna, a famous actress, on the big screen and thinking about how their love can never be, and later when he is distraught to overhear her calling him "someone from the past" while she's on set. In fact, Grant's poor eyesight even leads to one of the best scenes in the film, when he is forced to wear absolutely giant prescription goggles ("slutty" giant goggles, perhaps?) during a trip to the cinema.

Then there's Jude Law in The Holiday, whose glasses make a few appearances to show him at his most unguarded — once after sex and once when he lets Cameron Diaz's Amanda get a glimpse into his picture-perfect life as a single dad to two daughters. Giles from Buffy the Vampire Slayer also slots nicely into the hot prof catalog.

Why are "slutty little glasses" so hot? Back to Jonathan Bailey's "slutty little glasses" in "Jurassic World Rebirth." Credit: Universal

Our decades-long fascination with "slutty little glasses" does, of course, go beyond their aesthetic appeal. It gestures toward the female gaze and indeed the queer gaze. "Slutty little glasses" speak to the girls and gays because they present us with a different type of male hero, one who subverts the traditional tropes of masculinity by finding strength in his intellect and his openness rather than just his machismo.

A chiseled jawline and a toned bicep may be nice, but far more attractive is a man who has layers that go beyond the physical — like a willingness to be vulnerable. An unexpected softness. A steady intellect. Traits, in other words, that can be instantly implied with one little pair of glasses. 

"Slutty little glasses" are enjoying an undeniable moment in the spotlight. After all, Bailey wears them well. But he is only the latest leading man to set our hearts a flutter with a pair of sexy little specs. Sure, the frames may have shifted from tortoiseshell to titanium, but the appeal of the "slutty little glasses" is timeless.

Jurassic World Rebirth is now in theaters.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This charging dock for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers is $19

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Charge up to 4 Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons at once with this RGB-lit dock—just $18.99 (reg. $29.99) with free shipping.

Few things ruin the vibe faster than reaching for your Joy-Con and realizing it’s dead. If your Nintendo Switch 2 controllers are constantly running on empty, it might be time to level up your charging game. This 4-in-1 charging dock is here to save your battery life — and your patience — for just $18.99 (regularly $29.99), and yes, shipping is free.

This compact little powerhouse charges up to four Joy-Con controllers simultaneously. No more waiting for one set to juice up while your friends awkwardly spectate. The magnetic, weighted design keeps things steady, while the smart chip prevents overcharging and overheating — because nothing kills a gaming marathon faster than fried gear.

And let’s discuss aesthetics. With 9 RGB lighting effects, this dock does more than charge — it puts on a light show. Whether you’re into neon vibes or want your setup to match your Mario Kart mood, the customizable lights bring the glow-up your gaming station deserves.

Compatible only with Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons, this dock features a reversible connector for easy plug-in (no more fidgeting to find the “right way”). It’s fast, safe, stylish, and honestly a must-have for anyone who’s tired of Joy-Con roulette.

Grab this 4-controller charger while it’s just $18.99 (reg. $29.99) with free shipping.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: UGR Tech Charging Dock for Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Controllers $18.99
$29.99 Save $11 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

It’s bug season — fight back with this zapper

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Tired of swatting bugs all summer? The Flowtron 2-Acre Bug Zapper uses UV light and Octenol to attract and zap mosquitoes and other flying pests.

Bug season has officially clocked in — but don’t worry, your new MVP just entered the chat. The Flowtron 2-Acre Outdoor Electric Bug Zapper is like the bodyguard your backyard didn’t know it needed, zapping away mosquitoes and flies so you can enjoy your lemonade in peace.

Covering up to two full acres, this zapper doesn’t mess around. It combines the irresistible glow of three 40W UV bulbs with the mosquito-luring power of Octenol — a safe attractant that mosquitoes find way too tempting. Once they get close? Zap. The 5,600-volt grid does the work in a flash.

It’s got the credentials, too. EPA registered, UL and CSA listed, and made in the USA, the Flowtron is built to handle the elements with its weatherproof housing and non-clogging design. Hang it up on your porch, pergola, or fence, and enjoy a low-maintenance solution to one of summer’s most annoying problems.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, stargazing with the kids, or just trying to drink your coffee without donating blood to a swarm of bugs, this zapper’s here to keep things quiet, clean, and bite-free.

Get the Flowtron 2-Acre Outdoor Electric Bug Zapper while it’s $234.97 with free shipping.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Flowtron Flowtron 2 Acre Outdoor Electric Bug Zapper $234.97
$249.99 Save $15.02 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Take AI notes for life for just $30

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Note-taking just got a major glow-up. My Notes AI lets you record, transcribe, summarize, and organize — all from one app. Get it for life for just $29.99 with code TAKE10.

Opens in a new window Credit: My Notes AI My Notes AI Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription - AI Note Transcriber & Summarizer $29.99
$299 Save $269.01 with code TAKE10 Get Deal

Many of us are familiar with frantically scribbling during a Zoom call only to try and decipher our own handwriting later, or forgetting that really good idea we had mid-meeting because we couldn’t read or record it. A solution exists with My Notes AI, the app that becomes your brain’s favorite assistant.

For a one-time price of $29.99 with code TAKE10 at checkout (down from $299), you get lifetime access to a sleek productivity tool that does the hard stuff for you. Record meetings, transcribe interviews, summarize lectures, and keep it all organized like the pro you are — or aspire to be.

Whether you’re a student, freelancer, entrepreneur, or someone who just wants to remember more things, My Notes AI works across iPhone, iPad, and Mac and gives you unlimited transcription and AI-powered summarization. That means no monthly charges, no limits, and no forgetting what was said in that very long meeting you were only half awake for.

It even records meetings on Mac without any extra bots or plug-ins. Just hit record while you’re on Zoom, Google Meet, or Teams. Later, it’ll spit out an instant summary so you know what actually mattered.

Organize your thoughts. Reclaim your time. And finally, take notes that work for you.

Get lifetime access to the MyNotes AI App for $29.99 with code TAKE10 at checkout (reg. $299) through July 15.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Where can you buy Labubu online?

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

The monster. The myth. The legend. The Labubu.

The grinning monster is everywhere this summer, including on Mashable's own digital pages. My fabulous colleague and fellow Mashable editor, Crystal Bell, recently took a deep dive into the cult and community of Labubu. She even accidentally won a fashion contest at a viral Labubu fan meetup in New York City. She (yes, Labubuu goes by she/her) most often appears as an elfin plush figurine, and fans collect Labubu keychains, dolls, toys, and whatever merchandise they can find.

Credit: Pop Mart

This sparks two burning questions. Number one, what is Labubu? Labubu is a collectible toy, part of the monster series by Hong Kong-Belgian artist Kasing Lung, but Labubu is so much more than that. She's also the hottest accessory of the hottest summer. Number two, where can you buy Labubu?

Where to buy Labubu online

If you want to join the Labubu community, you need to know where to buy Labubu. And more importantly, where to buy a real Labubu. If you're not careful, you can accidentally end up with the dreaded Lafufu, or faux Labubu dolls sold by unscrupulous grifters.

You can find third-party sellers hawking Labubu dolls and toys everywhere from Amazon to Shein, and you should proceed with caution when shopping these types of marketplaces. Amazon, at least, should offer easy returns if you do end up unboxing a Lafufu. Fortunately, there are legitimate places to purchase these collectible toys online.

Since Labubu dolls, toys, and keychains sell out so quickly, some of the links below may lead to out-of-stock products. However, keep checking these links to stay up-to-date with the latest restocks.

Buy Labubu on Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Pop Mart Check the Amazon Pop Mart store Learn More

Amazon has an official Pop Mart storefront, where dozens of products from "The Monsters" series are available for sale. As of this writing, all of the Amazon Pop Mart listings are sold out. However, you can look for restocks. Fans claim that restocks typically occur on Thursdays at approximately 8:30 p.m. ET.

While many Labubu products on Amazon are sold out, Amazon does allow resellers to list their own products for sale. You can find these products by selecting "See All Buying Options." Proceed with caution, and check the seller's feedback rating for more information.

Beware the dreaded Lafufu when buying from resellers. Credit: Screenshot courtesy of Amazon Proceed with caution. Credit: Screenshot courtesy of Amazon

If you want to check for restocks on Amazon, here are some of Pop Mart's official Labubu listings at Amazon, as of this writing:

Buy Labubu at Amazon The Monsters - Tasty Macarons Vinyl Face Blind Box, Whole Set $339.99 Shop Now The Monsters Big into Energy Series-Vinyl Plush Pendant Blind Box $88.45 Shop Now Pop Mart The Monsters Let's Checkmate Series-Vinyl Plush Doll Check prices at Amazon Shop Now Buy Labubu at Kicks Crew Opens in a new window Credit: Pop Mart Check the Kicks Crew Pop Mart store Shop Now

The Kicks Crew online store is one of the few that actually had Labubu in stock at the time of writing. Here, you'll find Labubus for sale alongside the latest drops from Nike, Yeezy, Adidas, and other streetwear brands. If you're looking for Labubu keychains for sale, you can find options starting at $62.06.

Buy Labubu at Kicks Crew Pop Mart The Monsters - Tasty Macarons Vinyl Face Blind Box, Blue $62.06 Shop Now Pop Mart The Monsters -Tasy Macarons Vinyl Face Blind Box, Brown $185.11 Shop Now Pop Mart The Monsters -Tasy Macarons Vinyl Face Blind Box, Pink $66.34 Shop Now Buy Labubu at Stock X

A favorite among hypebeasts looking to cop the latest trend, StockX is an online marketplace and resell platform. For those desperately seeking Labubu, StockX is a good option if you don't mind paying resale prices. While a standard Labubu plush keychain retails for $27.99 at Pop Mart, prices on StockX can range anywhere from $45 to in the hundreds. The rarer the Labubu, the higher the price.

And remember to exercise caution when buying on StockX, as you can still end up with a Lafufu. Luckily, StockX will usually return the fake item to the seller and attempt to connect you with a new seller.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pop Mart Check StockX Pop Mart listings Shop Now
Categories: IT General, Technology

Whats new to streaming this week? (July 4, 2025)

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:00

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of this week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most-watchable. Whether you're in the mood for shark shenanigans, family-friendly fun, action-packed adventures, or a vampire movie that's the best film of 2025 so far, we've got something just for you.

Here's what's new on streaming, from worst to best.

10. The Sandman, Season 2: Vol. 1

In the wake of the disturbing allegations of sexual assault made against author Neil Gaiman, The Sandman returns for its second and final season.

Season 1 followed Dream (Tom Sturridge) on a quest to reclaim his equipment after breaking free of the bonds of a wizard. In that time, he shook up the world of gods, demons, and fairies, sparking the ire of the lord of Hell, Lucifer (Game of Thrones' Gwendoline Christie). Season 2 picks up with Dream rebuilding his kingdom, and will welcome an expansion of its cast of characters, including Orpheus, Loki, Odin, Thor, and more.

While fans of Gaiman's comic series will think they know exactly what to expect, showrunner Allan Heinberg told Tudum, "Our adaptation aims to be faithful to the movements of Dream’s story, but in a way that I hope will surprise the book’s loyal fans."

Starring: Tom Sturridge, Boyd Holbrook, Patton Oswalt, Gwendoline Christie, Charles Dance, Jenna Coleman, Stephen Fry, and John Cameron Mitchell

How to watch: The Sandman, Season 2: Vol. 1 debuts on Netflix on July 3.

9. Shark Whisperer

Summer is a time for musing on sharks, whether it be revisiting the Jaws movies, diving into the murky waters of (the oft-fearmongering) Shark Week, or checking out the pair of Netflix offerings about these incredible predators of the oceans.

Shark Whisperer comes from James Reed, the co-director of the Academy Award–winning nature doc My Octopus Teacher. As the title suggests, this documentary follows a shark lover, Ocean Ramsey, who is known for posting viral videos of her swims with sharks. Her goal is to show the world these sea creatures aren't something to be feared, but understood. But even in the trailer, Ramsey is quick to recognize the danger of her mission. These are wild animals, after all. But there's more to this story than the sharks, as Ramsey and her tactics have stirred controversy. Is her mission really about the sharks? Or is she chasing fame for her own ends? Dive in and find out.

How to watch: Shark Whisperer is now streaming on Netflix.

8. All of the Sharks

If you want your shark media with more reality TV flare, then All of the Sharks seems made for you.

This competition series has four teams of shark experts taking the plunge in a race to capture sharks on camera for a $50,000 prize, which will go to a charity of the competitors' choice. They'll travel from the Maldives to the Galapagos, the Bahamas, Japan, South Africa, and Australia on their quest to snap pics, with more points for rarer species. The glories of nature photography collide with competition drama, plus sharks! What more could you wish for?

How to watch: All of the Sharks debuts on Netflix on July 4.

7. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl

A24's critically heralded black comedy from Zambian-Welsh director Rungano Nyoni is now streaming! On Becoming a Guinea Fowl begins on an empty road in Zambia, where Shula (Susan Chardy) discovers the body of her Uncle Fred. As funeral traditions begin, she and her cousins are urged to look back and better understand her family's buried secrets.

In his review for Mashable, Siddhant Adlakha described the film like this: "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl is a brilliantly wry film of funeral traditions and familial idiosyncrasies. Tackling dark familial secrets with acerbic wit, it explores a culture of silence around sexual abuse. The result is a fiercely feminist tale filled with powerful observations, told through the eyes of a woman struggling with her commitment to community, as she’s backed into corners by social norms."

Starring: Susan Chardy, Elizabeth Chisela, and Henry B.J. Phiri

How to watch: On Becoming a Guinea Fowl begins streaming on HBO Max on July 4.

6. Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado

In 2019, Dora and the Lost City of Gold masterfully re-imagined the kids cartoon show Dora the Explorer into a live-action romp, fun for the whole family. Now, Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is the standalone sequel, with Samantha Lorraine stepping in as the eponymous adventurer.

With the help of her cousin Diego and her monkey pal Boots, she's searching for the lost treasure of Sol Dorado. But they're not the only ones looking. As they delve into the jungle, they're racing against time with a band of mercenaries on their track. Along the way, they'll drop references to the beloved children's series, fish-out-of-water jokes from Dora's less adventure-savvy cohorts, and a crowd-pleasing blend of humor and action. Family movie night is sorted. Vámonos!

Starring: Samantha Lorraine, Jacob Rodriguez, Daniella Pineda, Gabriel Iglesias, and María Cecilia Botero

How to watch: Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is now streaming on Paramount+.

5. Heads of State

Ever wanted to see John Cena be president of the United States of America? Then you're in luck. The pro-wrestler turned movie star headlines Heads of State playing an action star-turned POTUS. Alongside Cena is British icon Idris Elba, who plays the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Together, they offer an odd-couple comedy where political differences might be more amusing than cringe-worthy or abjectly horrifying!

From Ilya Naishuller (Nobody, Hardcore Henry) comes an action-comedy that's not only loaded with star power and action, but laughs as well. Is it stupid? Sure. But if you're seeking a popcorn movie perfect for cozying up on your couch to escape the heat, Heads of State is here to serve.

Starring: John Cena, Idris Elba, Priyanka Chopra, Jack Quaid, Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, and Carla Gugino

How to watch: Heads of State premieres on Prime Video on July 4.

4. Thunderbolts*

The 36th MCU movie plays like Marvel's version of Suicide Squad, boasting a star-stuffed cast that includes Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour playing chaotic antiheroes.

Misfits like Yelena Belova (Pugh), Bucky (Stan), Red Guardian (Harbour), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and John Walker (Wyatt Russell) are united by CIA director Valentina de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) — whether she likes it or not! Together, they must not only battle a new big bad who's terrorizing New York City, but also their own inner demons.

Despite a promising setup and exciting cast, Thunderbolts* wasn't what fans hoped for. In my review for Mashable, I wrote, "Sure, there's action, callbacks, deep-dive comic book lore, and the occasional character-driven comedy beat. But overall, Thunderbolts* feels like two to six ideas for a movie haphazardly cobbled together. There's little flow, less fun, and a final act that feels more like a cheat than an achievement."

Starring: Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, Olga Kurylenko, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Lewis Pullman, David Harbour, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus

How to watch: Thunderbolts* is now available on digital.

3. Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League

This month has Superman returning to the big screen. But you don't have to wait for a fresh take on DC heroes. This anime offering, directed by Junpei Mizusaki and Shinji Takagi and written by Kazuki Nakashima, is pitting the Dark Knight against a — checks notes — shower of yakuza, literally descending from the skies onto Gotham. And that's just for starters.

This sequel to Batman Ninja has Bruce Wayne returning to the present to discover a world where Japan is gone — as are the rest of the Justice League. Well, at least the versions of Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, and The Flash that Bruce knew are gone. In their place are the Yakuza League, superheroes tied not to government or justice, but to yakuza families at war with one another. So, it's up to Batman and Robin to not only save the day, but also their timeline to restore the Justice League to its former glory. Sounds like a wild ride.

Starring: Koichi Yamadera, Daisuke Ono, Akira Ishida, Kengo Kawanishi, Yuki Kaji, Hōchū Ōtsuka, Masaki Terasoma, Wataru Takagi, Rie Kugimiya, Nobuyuki Hiyama, Romi Park, Akio Otsuka, Ayane Sakura, Kazuhiro Yamaji, and Takaya Kamikawa

How to watch: Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League premieres on HBO Max on July 3.

2. The Old Guard 2

In 2020, director Gina Prince-Bythewood delivered epic action in the sly superhero movie The Old Guard. For the long-awaited sequel, Victoria Mahoney (Yelling to the Sky) takes the helm, joined by returning cast members like Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

Theron is mulleted up and ready to rumble in this sequel. Her immortal warrior Andy and company are back in action, fighting evil to save the world. Trailers for the film tease the action that's sure to thrill. But Andy has a new big bad to battle, Quynh (Veronica Ngô) — a fellow immortal on a vengeance kick after being buried alive at sea for ages. Plus, Uma Thurman in an ominous role.

Furiousa versus The Bride? We're in.

Starring: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, Matthias Schoenaerts, Veronica Ngô, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Uma Thurman, and Henry Golding

How to watch: The Old Guard 2 is now streaming on Netflix.

1. Sinners

The best movie of 2025 (so far) is coming to streaming this holiday! Following Fruitvale Station, Black Panther, and Creed, Sinners marks the latest collaboration between writer/director Ryan Coogler and movie star Michael B. Jordan, who pulls double-duty in this period film, playing twins.

The Smokestack Twins are gangsters looking to open their own juke joint in their hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi, in 1932. To make their grand opening one the town will never forget, they call on friends and family to cook, perform, and work security. But their revels draw the attention of a vicious vampire, and all hell breaks loose before dawn.

Critics praised the epic scope Coogler applied to his genre-fluid drama — which might be a horror musical. And audiences swooned over the ensemble, who were radiant as they created characters complex and compelling.*

In my review of the film, I cheered, "Sinners is more than a hell of a thrilling vampire movie. Like Black Panther, it expands beyond the expectations of its genre to become a magnificent film, emanating with spirit, power, and purpose. Smoothly blending vampire horror into a unique tale of regret, resilience, and redemption, Coogler and Jordan have made a cinematic marvel that is terrifying, satisfying, and unforgettable."

Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Jack O'Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Miller, and Delroy Lindo

How to watch: Sinners begins streaming on Max on July 4.

* denotes that this blurb appeared in a previous Mashable list.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This refurbished Kindle Paperwhite deserves a second chance — save over $50 ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 10:56

SAVE $53: As of July 2, this Kindle Paperwhite (refurbished) is on sale for $126.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 29% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (Refurbished) $126.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $53.00 Get Deal

Book lovers, head directly to Amazon because you can get the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition for under $130. No, seriously. This "like new" refurbished model is discounted by an impressive 29%.

As of July 2, this device is priced at $126.99. This deal is on the 32GB model, and is available in all colorways: black, jade, and raspberry. And don't be put off by the refurbished stamp. According to Amazon, this Kindle is "refurbished, tested, and certified to look and work like new and comes with the same limited warranty as a new device."

SEE ALSO: Early Prime Day book deals: Save up to 80% on hardcovers, paperbacks, and Kindle editions

This is Amazon's fastest Kindle yet, and has a sharper contrast and 25% faster page turns. It has an ultra-thin, glare-free design to make it perfect for reading anywhere, whether you're traveling, lounging around at home, or sitting out in the sun.

A single USB-C charge can last up to 12 weeks, and the adjustable display lets you switch from white to amber for comfortable reading in any light. Plus, it's waterproof, so you can take it to the pool, bath, or beach without worry. Access over 15 million titles in the Kindle Store instantly, and if you subscribe to Kindle Unlimited, you can dive into an endless catalog of bestsellers and more.

Go on, treat yourself to an early Prime Day deal.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

X is about to let AI fact-check your posts

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 10:54

Not sure whether that video you just saw on X (formerly Twitter) is real or AI-generated? Don't worry, AI will now let you know what's what.

Elon Musk's X is running a new pilot program that allows AI chatbots to generate Community Notes on the platform. Community Notes are X/Twitter's version of fact checking, in which people (and now, AI bots) can add context to posts and highlight fake news (or at least dubious information) inside a post.

Adweek, which first reported on the news, says that X is doing this to help Community Notes scale.

“Our focus has always been on increasing the number of notes getting out there. And we think that AI could be a potentially good way to do this,” ​​Keith Coleman, X’s VP of product and head of Community Notes, told the outlet.

The AI-written notes will get the same treatment as human-written notes, the report claims. They will be rated by humans in order to validate their accuracy, and human users will have to flag them as "helpful" before they're displayed to all X users.

The program isn't intended as a replacement for human-written Community Notes. Instead, Coleman says that both types of notes will be "very additive."

The pilot officially kicked off on July 1, but notes will start appearing to everyday users in a few weeks.

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk threatens to start new U.S. political party

X's Community Notes have been hit and miss for the company so far. Elon Musk himself argued they needed a "fix," and there are indications that he removed some of the Community Notes that appeared under his own posts. The use of Community Notes has fallen off sharply in recent months. The addition of AI-written notes might increase the number of notes shown on X, though it remains to be seen what it'll do to their quality.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Fire TV 2-Series is $40 off ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 10:52

SAVE $40: As of July 2, the Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series is on sale for $109.99 at Amazon. That's a 27% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series $109.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

TV deals are warming up ahead of Prime Day. As of July 2, you can find a fantastic early deal on the Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series, saving you $40 on list price. At $109.99, it's the cheapest it has been all year.

One of the standout features is the built-in Alexa voice control. Not only can you use this to control some of your other smart home devices (think speakers, robot vacuums, or light bulbs), but you can also use it to search through multiple streaming platforms at once, helping you find your favorite shows and movies much more easily (trust us, you'll really love this feature).

SEE ALSO: The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is already 50% off one week before Prime Day

And you're not scrimping on quality either. Enjoy an HD 1080p resolution with support for HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio. Meaning all your shows, movies, and gaming experiences are the highest quality.

For entertainment, the TV runs on Amazon's Fire OS, so you'll have access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. It also features two standard HDMI inputs and one ARC input, making it easy to connect gaming devices.

Grab this early Prime Day deal from Amazon now.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Echo Show 5 is at its lowest price this year — save $30 ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 10:42

SAVE $30: As of July 2, the Amazon Echo Show 5 is on sale for $59.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 33% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Show 5 $59.99 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal

Prime Day is just a week away, and we can expect to see a whole lot of discounts on Amazon products. But if you want to start saving now, check out this amazing deal on the Echo Show 5, currently at its lowest price this year.

As of July 2, you can pick up this smart assistant for $59.99, saving you $30.

SEE ALSO: Target is hosting a Circle Week sale during Prime Day again

The Echo Show 5 is basically a smart assistant with a screen, and a perfect all-rounder device. It comes with built-in Alexa, the ability to watch Netflix shows, and it even has video chat capabilities. The design is neat and nifty, with a screen size of just 5.5 inches, so it is perfect for looking at the weather, recipes, or the time at a glance, without taking up too much space in your home.

It can stream music and has compatibility with the most popular streaming apps, including Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify, and Deezer. This model even benefits from a deeper bass and clearer vocals for a more advanced listening experience.

Not to mention, the Echo Show 5 is eco-friendly, featuring fabric made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn and an aluminum body crafted from 100% recycled materials.

Grab this deal before the Prime Day rush.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Queensland Reds vs. Lions online for free

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 10:24

TL;DR: Live stream Queensland Reds vs. Lions for free on RugbyPass TV. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 British and Irish Lions officially started their Australian campaign with an impressive victory over Western Force, but there are no prizes for winning these games. It's all about testing out combinations, building momentum, and finding chemistry before the Test matches against the Wallabies.

The Lions will be hoping for another strong performance against the Queensland Reds. If you want to watch Queensland Reds vs. Lions for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Queensland Reds vs. Lions?

Queensland Reds vs. Lions starts at 11 a.m. BST on July 2. This fixture takes place at the Brisbane Stadium.

How to watch Queensland Reds vs. Lions for free

Queensland Reds vs. Lions is available to live stream for free on RugbyPass TV.

This free live stream is geo-restricted to the U.S., but anyone from around the world can gain access with a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to live stream Queensland Reds vs. Lions from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Queensland Reds vs. Lions for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

  4. Visit RugbyPass TV

  5. Stream Queensland Reds vs. Lions for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Queensland Reds vs. Lions without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream this fixture before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for RugbyPass TV?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on free platforms like RugbyPass TV, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Queensland Reds vs. Lions for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Reassess Your Global Travel Strategy

Havard Management Tip of the Day - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 06:01

In today’s volatile climate, global travel isn’t just about logistics—it’s about risk management and policy adaptation. As rules shift rapidly, you need a proactive, structured approach to sending employees abroad or receiving international staff in the U.S. Audit employee visa status. Know who is working under temporary authorization and monitor renewal timelines. If employees have […]

257257
Categories: Management

1MinAI is an all-in-one AI tool—get it for life for just $40

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 06:00

TL;DR: Put all your AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini Pro, and Leonardo.AI in one place with a lifetime subscription to 1minAI, an all-in-one AI app, on sale for just $39.99 (reg. $234). 

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1minAI: Lifetime Subscription $39.99 at The Mashable Shop
$234 Save $194.01 Get Deal

The free version of some AI models like ChatGPT can get the job done, but if you want the good stuff, you should consider opting for a paid subscription.  

1minAI consolidates many of the most popular AI models — like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Meta AI — into one platform where you can use them all seamlessly, whether you need to generate text, images, or even full videos. A lifetime subscription to 1minAI usually costs $234, but you can get one on sale now for $39.99

What can you do with 1minAI

1minAI gives you one platform where you can access AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Meta AI, Mistral AI, and more. You don't just get the baseline version, either — 1minAI users can chat with GPT-4, GPT-4 Turbo, Gemini Pro 1.5, and Llama 2 or Llama 3. 

Like a ton of other AI platforms, 1minAI has a limit to how much you can generate every month. Unlike other platforms, the limit is incredibly high. Here's what your lifetime subscription gets you every month. 

First, you get a baseline of 1,000,000 credits per month. Then, every day you log in, you get an additional 15,000 free credits. These will roll over if you don't use them all, too. 

In practice, those huge numbers mean you could generate up to 362,500 words, research nearly 2,000 SEO keywords, generate 386 images, upscale 241 images, remove 24 backgrounds, convert text to speech for over 120,000 characters, and generate up to 12 videos. 

Your AI Swiss Army Knife

Put all your go-to AI tools in one place. Get a lifetime subscription to 1minAI for $39.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on July 2, 2025

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 06:00

The moon is in another phase of the lunar cycle, and we have all the information you need about tonight's visibility and what to look out for.

The lunar cycle is a series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days, according to NASA, and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. 

See what's happening with the moon tonight, July 2.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Wednesday, July 2, the moon phase is First Quarter. According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 48% of the moon will be lit up and visible to us on Earth.

First Quarter is the stage of the lunar cycle where the moon appears to be a half moon. This is day seven of the lunar cycle, and with significantly more of the moon on display, there's plenty to see when you look up.

Unaided, you'll be able to see the Mare Serenitatis, Mare Tranquillitatis, and the Mare Fecunditatis on the moon's surface. If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, these will be positioned in the top right of the moon. If you're in the Southern Hemisphere, direct your gaze to the bottom left.

If you have binoculars, you'll also spot the Endymion Crater and the Posidonius Crater are visible, as well as the Mare Nectaris. And with a telescope, like last night, you'll be able to see the Apollo 11 and Apollo 17 spot and the Rupes Altai. You'll also get a sneak peek at the Descartes Highlands. NASA tells us this is a crater just south of the Apollo 16 landing spot.

When is the next full moon?

This month's full moon will take place on July 10. The last full moon was on June 11.

What are moon phases?

Moon phases are caused by the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Montana

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 06:00

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from Montana with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

In the early stages of 2025, the world of porn was rocked after a number of states introduced laws that required visitors to upload ID before accessing sites. Pornhub battled back by banning visitors from these states from accessing their website. These restrictions are still in place, but fortunately, a simple workaround exists.

If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from Montana, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Montana

VPNs are useful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: I've tested a bunch of popular VPNs. This is the only one I recommend for streaming.

Unblock Pornhub by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

  4. Visit Pornhub

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to sites like Pornhub, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing content restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unblock Pornhub for free in Montana with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Hurdle hints and answers for July 2, 2025

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 04:00

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 heighten.

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

RAISE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

What football players wear.

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

CLEAT

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Dirt often found in a bathroom.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 2 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for July 2, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

GRIME

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Where a wedding takes place.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for July 2 Hurdle Word 4 answer

VENUE

Final Hurdle hint

To estimate.

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

GUESS

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ironhearts post-credit scene has a huge MCU problem

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 03:00

Like every MCU property at this point, Ironheart has a post-credit scene teasing what's to come.

In Ironheart's post-credit sequence, Parker Robbins (Anthony Ramos), now missing his magical hood, links up with sorceress-in-training Zelma Stanton (Regan Aliyah) for some magical aid. Following his battle with Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) and fallout with newly introduced Mephisto (Sacha Baron Cohen), he says that he's in need of "Supreme-like help," hinting that the pair are off to find Sorcerer Supreme Wong (Benedict Wong).

SEE ALSO: 'Ironheart' finally brings Mephisto into the MCU. But is it too late?

There's just one problem here, and it's a problem that Marvel has been dealing with for a while now: Will this scene actually amount to anything in the MCU?

The MCU has a post-credits problem.

Even though Ironheart is uneven at points, it's still a show I'd like to see continued in a Season 2, where we'd presumably see what Parker and Zelma get up to in addition to Riri's next steps. However, given that Loki and Daredevil: Born Again are the only two live-action Marvel Studios shows to have gotten second season orders, and the way Disney rushed Ironheart's release out over two weeks, my hopes aren't high. Based on the rollout alone, it doesn't seem like Marvel is confident about how Riri's story fits into the future of the MCU. That's a shame, since the series touches on fascinating themes like wealth disparity and AI ethics, as well as bringing far more representation into the MCU, from its mostly Black cast to its queer and nonbinary characters like Slug (Shea Couleé) and Jeri (Zoe Terakes).

If Ironheart doesn't get a chance at a Season 2, it'll join the ranks of Moon Knight and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law as scrapped shows with definite potential for further seasons. (While Ms. Marvel technically got a continuation in The Marvels, I'd consider it to be in this camp too.) More than that, it joins a long list of MCU projects whose post-credit scenes go nowhere. Remember Moon Knight teasing Marc Spector's (Oscar Isaac) third persona Jake Lockley? Or She-Hulk revealing that Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) has a son named Skaar (Wil Deusner)? Still waiting to see where either of those stories will go, years down the line.

But these teases don't stop at the MCU's TV offerings. They extend to its films too. Charlize Theron popped up as sorceress Clea in the final moments of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Brett Goldstein appeared as Hercules in Thor: Love and Thunder's post-credit scene, and Harry Styles made his MCU debut as Eros in Eternals. But have any of these characters come back? No!

Instead, post-Avengers: Endgame, the MCU has been throwing everything it can at the wall, gesturing out to storylines that will likely never see the light of day instead of reliably hinting at the next confirmed project. And while it's fascinating to view the franchise as an ever-evolving living document that's adapting in real time to current events (see: Disney's Fox acquisition bringing in the X-Men and Fantastic Four, or the abandonment of Jonathan Majors' Kang), it's also aggravating as a viewer to get attached to characters the MCU hints might take up space in future storylines, but never get the concrete opportunity to do so.

I'd love to see more of Riri and Parker and Zelma and the rest of Ironheart's crew. But given Marvel's track record, I'm not hopeful, just frustrated.

Ironheart Season 1 is now streaming on Disney+.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ironheart finally brings Mephisto into the MCU. But is it too late?

Mashable - Wed, 07/02/2025 - 03:00

When Marvel's WandaVision first started airing in 2021, the name "Mephisto" was unavoidable.

Every week, fans theorized the demonic Marvel villain would be revealed as the mastermind behind all of Wanda's (Elizabeth Olsen) suffering. The theory made sense, given that in the comics, Wanda's (Elizabeth Olsen) twins Billy and Tommy (Julian Hillard and Jett Klyne) are fragments of Mephisto's soul that he later reabsorbs. However, Mephisto truthers were left cold when Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) turned out to the show's one and only big bad.

SEE ALSO: 'Ironheart' review: Grief and AI collide in Ryan Coogler's Marvel series

Still, viewers continued to anticipate Mephisto's arrival in other shows. Was the image of a devil in a stained-glass window proof Mephisto would be in Loki? Nope, it was just a reference to Loki (Tom Hiddleston) himself. Did Madisynn (Patty Guggenheim) make a deal with Mephisto during her jaunt to a hellish dimension in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law? Nope, that was just a demon goat named Jake.

As Marvel's slate of Disney+ shows expanded, the Mephisto fervor died down. Perhaps he really just wasn't coming to the MCU after all.

Enter Ironheart, which pits tech whiz Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) against the magic-powered Parker Robbins (Anthony Ramos). In the show's Season 1 finale, Ironheart finally reveals where Parker got his magic hood, and the answer is one Marvel fans have been clamoring for since WandaVision: Parker got the hood from none other than Mephisto (Sacha Baron Cohen).

What's Mephisto doing in Ironheart?

In episode 6 of Ironheart, viewers learn that Parker made a bargain with Mephisto in order to get his heart's desire: become filthy rich. Mephisto would give Parker all the tools — namely, the hood — he needed to meet his goal. In return, Parker would give up "something you won't even miss," as Mephisto put it. Nothing sketchy about that vagueness at all!

SEE ALSO: Shea Couleé knows that now is the time for 'Ironheart'

Later in the episode, Riri makes a similar deal with Mephisto, ultimately getting her best friend Natalie (Lyric Ross) back. Still, the stage is set for a showdown with the demon, because all magic has a cost. Surely the magic of resurrection demands the steepest price of them all.

Is Mephisto's arrival too late to be exciting?

On paper, the Mephisto reveal is an exciting one for MCU fans who have been begging for it since WandaVision. Even if his appearance in Ironheart isn't comic book-accurate like it would have been in a show like WandaVision, it's still fitting given the show's broader conflict between magic and technology.

However, with the supervillain's arrival coming in 2025 — four years after Mephisto fever hit its peak — it feels like the wind has been taken out of the SS Mephisto's sails. Much of that comes down to Ironheart's production schedule.

Ironheart wrapped production in Nov. 2022, then took almost three years to come out. At the time of writing and filming, bringing in Mephisto must have seemed like a massive deal: a moment of fan service that also brings Riri's story in an intriguing new direction. And maybe it would have felt massive had Ironheart been released in a timely manner.

Instead, the Mephisto reveal reads more like an artifact of the early era of Marvel Studios TV, when Marvel was experimenting with a varied, if overcrowded, slate, featuring highs like WandaVision and Ms. Marvel and lows like Secret Invasion. Since then, though, of Marvel Studios' live-action offerings, only Loki and Daredevil have received second seasons. Plus, Marvel has retooled how it's approaching TV production, suggesting a shift away from its first slate of shows.

Between that and Ironheart's two-week release, it seems like Marvel and Disney don't have much confidence in how Riri and the rest of the show's characters will fit into the MCU landscape going forward. That could include Mephisto, whose appearance, after so much hype, may just amount to nothing.

In the end, nothing sums up my reaction to the Mephisto reveal quite like Parker's own reaction to hearing Mephisto's name for the first time.

"Is that supposed to mean something to me?" he asks.

In 2022, that line would have read like a fun in-joke to fans. But in 2025, it comes across as a reminder of just how unwieldy the MCU has gotten — and of how many loose ends its TV shows have left in their wake.

Ironheart Season 1 is now streaming on Disney+.

Categories: IT General, Technology
Syndicate content

eXTReMe Tracker