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The biggest dangers in Disney's Strange World are not the tentacled creatures lurking around every corner but rather the stifling expectations of your father. This brand-new animated adventure joins Turning Red and Encanto in the recent series of Disney and Pixar films that examine fraught family dynamics. Those movies used red panda transformations and magical family gifts to explore mother-daughter relationships and intergenerational trauma. Here, in Strange World, father-son tension plays out against a background of fantastical flora and fauna that may or may not want to make a snack out of our protagonists. SEE ALSO: 'Wendell and Wild' review: Jordan Peele and Henry Selick deliver a dark gem Before we're dropped into that titular strange world, we're introduced to the land of Avalonia, an isolated country surrounded by rings of impassable mountains. Explorer supreme Jaeger Clade (Dennis Quaid) devotes his life to conquering the mountains, and he brings his botany-focused son Searcher (Jake Gyllenhaal) along for the ride. On one fateful expedition, Searcher discovers a plant that could potentially power all of energy-starved Avalonia. An unimpressed Jaeger continues into the mountains alone while Searcher, tired of his father never considering what he might want, turns back. 25 years pass, and though Jaeger never returns, Searcher's miracle plant, known as Pando, proves to be a game-changer for Avalonia. It powers everything from coffee machines and planes to flying scooters, helping create a technologically advanced utopia where everyone just so happens to wear incredible knitwear. That utopia comes under fire when a mysterious disease threatens to wipe out the Pando crop. Searcher reluctantly takes up the mantle of explorer again in order to help Avalonia's leader Callisto Mal (Lucy Liu) find the cause of the problem. They and their team — including Searcher's wife Meridian (Gabrielle Union), their son Ethan (Jaboukie Young-White), and their adorable dog Legend — follow the Pando's roots into a mysterious chasm in the ground. There, the real adventure begins. The star of Strange World is...the strange world I want to go to there. Credit: Disney It's no surprise that Strange World's biggest draw is its vast underground land of living forests, burning seas, and extensive cave systems. Here, rivers of jelly-like creatures float through the air. Cliffs walk of their own accord. Forests glow with bioluminescence. Co-director Don Hall and co-director/screenwriter Qui Nguyen have concocted a world of vibrant pinks, oranges, and blues that perfectly contrasts with Avalonia's green farms and snow-peaked mountains. The same goes for the subterranean landscape's textures. Everything our heroes encounter is delightfully squishy, from plains of pink anemone-like grass to the terrifyingly tentacled creepy-crawlies known as Reapers. It's a place you'll want to feast your eyes on — and sink your fingers into as well. The setting and story of Strange World are an amalgam of delightful references to adventure stories and science-fiction goodness. Perhaps the most obvious influence is the work of Jules Verne and his love of travel, flight, and wondrous discoveries. The film is essentially Disney doing Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth on massive hallucinogens, emotional processing included. SEE ALSO: 'Disenchanted' review: Amy Adams returns, but the magic is gone Strange World also draws on classic adventurer characters like Indiana Jones. Jaeger and Searcher's introduction plays out with a Clade-specific theme song in which composer Henry Jackman's work tips its dusty fedora to John Williams's classic Indiana Jones theme. Finally, with its emphasis on flying machines and its cast of tentacle-y creatures and plants, it's easy to see the influence of master animator Hayao Miyazaki — specifically, his film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. All these references and more do so much to conjure a grand sense of wonder that it's a shame Strange World's script doesn't always rise to meet it. Too often, the movie falls back on easy, overly modern or meta quips instead of fully embracing its genre-specific atmosphere — a problem I also encountered with the Nguyen-penned Raya and the Last Dragon. A helpful blue blob named Splat is the target of jokes about merchandising. Elsewhere, characters joke about "toxic" ways to start a relationship. The humorous beats land for the most part, but they clash with the retro sci-fi tone and visuals of Strange World, bringing us roaring back to the present. These moments unfortunately feel like the film is playing it safe when it should be playing it as strange as possible. Strange World is all about daddy issues, but that's not a bad thing. Can the Clades stop arguing long enough to get out of this mess? Credit: Disney While the quips can at times stifle Strange World, Nguyen's script gets it right where it counts: exploring the dynamics between three generations of Clade men. There's Jaeger, the rugged explorer who's been stuck in this bizarre landscape for the past 25 years; Searcher, the humble farmer who's been put off adventuring altogether by his father; and Ethan, who doesn't share his father's passion for farming but may just have inherited his grandfather's appetite for adventure. When the three collide, there's awkwardness. Searcher and Jaeger haven't spoken in 25 years, and they parted ways when their ideologies — adventuring beyond Avalonia versus staying and nurturing the community they already have — clashed. Now, with Ethan in the mix, their contentious relationship reaches an all-time high: Who can influence the youngest Clade the most? Searcher and Jaeger are incredibly different, but they still share several qualities, including stubbornness and the inability to see their son as anything but a continuation of their own legacy. As the Clades venture deeper into uncharted territory, will they be able to break the cycle of their father-son troubles? Yes, the scenes with Jaeger, Searcher, and Ethan can result in some fiery arguments. But there's a sprinkle of familial bonding thrown in the mix as well. Jaeger and Searcher share a sweet moment during a monster fight, of all places. The two also try to help boost Ethan's confidence so he can talk to his crush, a fellow card game nerd named Diazo. Here, we see that even though they drive each other crazy, the Clade men also care deeply for each other. It's also a particular joy to watch Ethan come into his own when he comes face to face with his father and grandfather's very different approaches to navigating the world. On top of all this family therapy, Strange World is a genuinely fun action movie. Meridian Clade is an ace pilot who gets to show off her flying skills in a big way, and there are multiple scenes where Callisto takes on pink pterodactyl-esque monsters with nothing but two knives and sheer bad-assery. Sure, some plot points may be predictable, but with such a fun sci-fi setting and sweet familial storyline, Strange World is a world you'll be happy getting lost in. Strange World is in theaters Nov. 23. View the full article

We've rounded up all of the best deals on Nov. 21 — here are our top picks: BEST APPLE DEAL: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) — $199.99 $249.99 (save $49.01) BEST TV DEAL: TCL 55-inch Class 5-Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Google TV — $199.99 $429.99 (save $230) BEST AMAZON DEVICE DEAL: Echo Dot (3rd Gen) 2-Pack — $14.99 $79.98 (save $64.99 with code FREEDOT22) Buckle up, y'all — it's officially Black Friday week. Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are gearing up for the craziest week of deals yet, with the latter debuting its third and final Deals for Days event at 7 p.m. ET (12 p.m. ET for Walmart+ members) on Nov. 21. The big box retailer leaked a sneak peek of the event last week, but you can head over to the site to see the full list of deals included in the sale. Amazon also dropped its official Black Friday device deals and they're even cheaper than they were during last month's Prime Day 2 sale. Brand-new Amazon devices like the Echo Dot (5th Gen) and Fire 7 tablet are up to 50% off for the first time, while older devices have reached new all-time lows. We've rounded up all of the best deals we could find on Nov. 21 from big brands like Apple, Amazon, and Dyson, and sorted them into popular product categories like smart TVs, wireless earbuds, and streaming devices. Happy shopping! Note: Deals marked with a are part of Walmart's third Deals for Days event. They won't officially go live until 7 p.m. ET (12 p.m. ET for Walmart+ members). You can unlock early access by signing up for a Walmart+ account. Best Apple deal Opens in a new tab Credit: Apple Our Pick: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) (opens in a new tab) $199.99 at Best Buy (save $49.01) Get Deal (opens in a new tab) Why we like itWhile not a massive overhaul, the updated second-generation AirPods Pro are still very good earbuds. As Mashable senior editor Stan Schroeder wrote in his review, "They sound great and the noise cancelation is stellar, but if you already have the original AirPods Pro, the new ones are not an essential upgrade." They were just released in September, so we haven't seen a ton of big discounts on these babies yet. In fact, this is the lowest price we've seen to date — a great time to snag them if you're in the market for AirPods Pro. The buds are the same price at Amazon and Best Buy, but the latter throws in three free months of Apple TV+, plus four free months of Apple Music and Apple News+. More Apple dealsApple TV HD 32GB (2nd Generation) — $59 $149.99 (save $90.99) Apple AirTag 4 Pack — $74.99 $99 (save $24.01) Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) — $79 $159 (save $80) Apple Watch SE (GPS, 40mm) — $149 $279 (save $130) 2021 Apple 10.2-inch iPad (Wi-Fi, 64GB) — $269.99 $329 (save $59.01) 2022 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 128GB) — $999 $1,099 (save $100) 2020 Apple 27-inch iMac (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $1,199.99 $1,799 (save $599.01) 2021 Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro chip, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,999.99 $2,499 (save $499.01) 2021 Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (Apple M1 Pro chip, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,199.99 $2,699 (save $499.01) Best Smart TV deal Opens in a new tab Credit: TCL Our Pick: TCL 55-inch Class 5-Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Google TV (opens in a new tab) $199.99 at Best Buy (save $230) Get Deal (opens in a new tab) Why we like itJust $200 for a 55-inch QLED Smart TV? That's practically unheard of. This TCL 55-inch Class 5-Series Smart Google TV is one of the best TV deals we've seen yet this season. It boasts superior 4K Ultra HD, quantum dot technology for greater accuracy and color volume, hands-free voice control, smart 4K upscaling, and more premium features at a cost that won't break the bank. It also comes with FuboTV free for 30 days and Apple TV+ free for three months. More Smart TV and home theater dealsTCL 2.1-ch S522W Home Theater Sound Bar — $59 $79.99 (save $20.99) Hisense 40-inch Class A4G Series LED Full HD Smart Vidaa TV — $99.99 $249.99 (save $150) HP FHD Projector with Roku Express Streamer and 84-inch projection screen — $137 $199 (save $62) VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar — $148 $199.99 (save $51.99) Insignia 42-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV — $169.99 $269.99 (save $100) TCL 65-inch 4-Series 4K TV — $228 LG 55-inch Class UP7050 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV — $298 $398 (save $100) Samsung 58-inch TU7000 4K TV — $377.99 $599.99 (save $222) Samsung 85-inch Q60B QLED TV — $1,597.99 $2,299.99 (save $702) Best Amazon device deal Opens in a new tab Credit: Amazon Our Pick: Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen) 2-Pack (opens in a new tab) $14.99 at Amazon (save $64.99 with code FREEDOT22) Get Deal (opens in a new tab) Why we like itAmazon is practically giving away Echo Dots (3rd Gen) for free. Not only is the speaker itself at its lowest price ever at $14.99, but when you enter the code FREEDOT22 at checkout, you can also add a second smart speaker to your cart. That means you'll get two Echo Dots for just $14.99 — a $65 discount — and can create a stereo sound experience in your home. Or, of course, you can keep one and gift the other to someone on your list this holiday season. The 2018 Echo Dot may not have the most advanced sound on the market, but former Mashable tech editor Pete Pachal found that it "turns its entry-level Alexa product from a merely passable audio experience into something much more pleasing to the ear." More Amazon device dealsFire TV Stick Lite — $14.99 $29.99 (save $15) Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen)— $19.99 $39.99 (save $20) Fire TV Stick 4K — $24.99 $49.99 (save $25) Echo Dot (5th Gen) — $24.99 $49.99 (save $25) Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen, 2021 release) — $34.99 $84.99 (save $50) Fire TV Stick 4K Max — $34.99 $54.99 (save $20) Fire 7 Tablet — $39.99 $59.99 (save $20) Echo Show 5 Kids (2nd Gen) — $39.99 $94.99 (save $55) Echo Dot (5th Gen) with clock — $39.99 $59.99 (save $20) Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen, 2021 release) with Blink Mini — $49.99 $119.98 (save $69.99) Echo (4th Gen) — $49.99 $99.99 (save $50) Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) Kids with Echo Glow — $50.99 $124.98 (save $73.99) Fire HD 8 Tablet — $54.99 $99.99 (save $45) Ring Video Doorbell — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40) Fire TV Cube — $59.99 $119.99 (save $60) Blink Floodlight Camera — $64.98 $129.98 (save $65) Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet — $64.99 $119.99 (save $55) Ring Video Doorbell with Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) — $69.99 $184.98 (save $114.99) Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen, 2021 release) — $69.99 $129.99 (save $60) Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet — $79.99 $149.99 (save $70) Fire HD 8 Kids Pro Tablet — $79.99 $149.99 (save $70) Ring Spotlight Cam Plus — $139.99 $199.99 (save $60) Echo Show 15 — $169.99 $249.99 (save $80) Amazon Fire TV 43-inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart TV — $229.99 $369.99 (save $140) Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart TV — $249.99 $469.99 (save $220) Amazon Fire TV 55-inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart TV — $299.99 $519.99 (save $220) Computer, tablet, and monitor dealsHP 11.6-inch Chromebook (AMD A4, 4GB RAM, 32GB eMMC) — $79 $98 (save $19) Lenovo Tab M8 (3rd Gen) 8-inch Tablet (MediaTek Helio P22T, 3GB RAM, 32GB eMCP) — $79 $119 (save $40) Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 8.7-inch Tablet (WiFi, 32GB) — $99.99 $159.99 (save $60) Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5-inch Tablet (WiFi, 32GB) — $139 $199 (save $60) HP 14-inch Touch Chromebook (Intel Celeron N4120, 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC) — $179 $299 (save $120) Lenovo 10.1-inch IdeaPad Duet Chromebook Touch 2-in-1 Tablet (MediaTek P60T, 4G RAM, 128G eMCP4x) — $189 $299 (save $110) LG 32-inch UltraGear QHD (2560x1440)165Hz HDR 10 Monitor with FreeSync — $200 $399 (save $199) MSI GF63 Thin 11SC-693 15.6-inch Gaming Laptop (Intel Core i5, 8GB Memory, 256GB NVMe SSD) — $499 $599 (save $100) Microsoft Surface Pro 8 2-in-1 (Intel Evo Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $899.99 $1,349.99 (save $450) Headphone and speaker dealsGoogle Nest Mini (2nd Generation) — $18 $49 (save $31) JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker — $59 $99 (save $40) Google Pixel Buds A-Series — $64 $99 (save $35) Samsung Galaxy Buds Live — $69 $169.99 (save $100.99) Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones — $79 $199.95 (save $120.95) Google Pixel Buds Pro — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50) Klipsch Reference Series 5-1/4-inch Passive 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers — $199.98 $399.98 (save $200) Home dealsKitchen deals Instant Pot Duo (6-Quart) — $50 $99.99 (save $49.99) Instant Pot Duo Plus (6-Quart) — $79.95 $149.95 (save $70) Ninja Foodi 4-in-1 2-Basket Air Fryer (8-Quart) — $99 $199.99 (save $100.99) Ninja Supra Kitchen System 72-ounce Blender and Food Processor — $99 $149 (save $50) Chefman Barista Pro Espresso Machine — $99 $139 (save $40) Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven (6-Quart) — $99.95 $169.99 (save $70.04) Ninja OL501 Foodi XL 14-in-1 Pressure Cooker (6.5-Quart) — $109.99 $279.99 (save $170) Nespresso Coffee and Espresso Machines — starting at $118.30 (save up to 30%) Instant Omni Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo (19-Quart) — $129.95 $199.99 (save $70.94) Ninja OL601 Foodi XL 14-in-1 Pressure Cooker (8-Quart) — $149.99 $32 Vitamix 6500 Blender — $399 $599.99 (save $200.99) Floor care deals Hoover MAXLife PowerDrive Swivel XL Bagless Upright Vacuum — $59 $119 (save 60) Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum — $98 $199 (save $101) eufy Clean by Anker RoboVac G32 Pro Robot Vacuum — $119 $299 (save $180) Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum — $144 $259 (save $115) iRobot Roomba 676 Robot Vacuum — $174 $269 (save $95) Shark AI VACMOP — $188 $479.99 (save $291.99) Shark EZ Robot Vacuum with Self-Empty Base — $258 $449 (save $191) iRobot Roomba i1+ (1552) Wi-Fi Connected Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum — $288 $529.99 (save $241.99) eufy RoboVac X8 Hybrid Robot Vacuum and Mop — $319.99 $649.99 (save $330) Dyson V10 Absolute Cordless Vacuum — $399.99 $599.99 (save $200) Dyson V15 Detect Vacuum — $649.99 $749.99 (save $100) Streaming device and subscription dealsFour months of Amazon Music Unlimited — free with select purchases at Best Buy (save $39.96) One year of Grubhub+ — free for Prime members $119.88 (save $119.88) First month of Xbox Game Pass — $1 $14.99 (save $13.99) Four months of Audible Premium Plus — $5.95/month $14.95/month (save $36) Paramount+ Essential — free with Walmart+ membership ($12.95/month or $98/year) Chromecast with Google TV (HD) Streaming Device — $18 $29.99 (save $11.99) Roku Streaming Stick 4K Streaming Device — $24.98 $49 (save $24.02) Roku Ultra LT Streaming Device 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision — $30 $80 (save $50) View the full article

Save $150: As of Nov. 21, the Lenovo Ideapad 1i 14" laptop is on sale for $99.99 at Best Buy. That's a savings of 60%. Laptops are staples for work, school, and even lounging around. Inevitably your loyal laptop will give out, become outdated, or need an upgrade — hey, it's the circle of life. But you can grab an inexpensive upgrade with this cloud grey Lenovo Ideapad 1i 14", on sale at a great price for Black Friday. As of Nov. 21, the Lenovo Ideapad 1i is on sale for $99.99. That's $150 off its usual price of $249.99. It's part of Best Buy's Early Black Friday deals on a variety of computers, laptops, headphones, and other devices. Since Lenovo has released newer generations of the Ideapad, you can get older models (like this one) with similar functions on the cheap. SEE ALSO: Black Friday is already here at Best Buy: Save on Apple Watches, Dyson hair tech, and more Don't be intimidated by its 14" screen; the Ideapad 1i weighs only an estimated 3 pounds. It also features 4GB of system memory and an Intel N4020 processor for maximum efficiency. Be aware that this Ideapad 1i features 64GB storage capacity and can't be upgraded; buyers can instead upload additional files onto a cloud. The Lenovo Ideapad 1i may not have all of the fancy features of flashier laptops, but it has everything a student or employee needs to take care of their daily tasks — all at a great price. Opens in a new tab Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Ideapad 1i 14" (opens in a new tab) Save $150 at Best Buy Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article

Our weekly playlist highlights songs that our writers, editors, and contributors are listening to on repeatView the full article

Live versions of “Angels,” “Chained,” “Reunion,” and “Sunset” accompany their second album’s reissueView the full article

Shop directly from the interactive video above. Buying gifts for friends and family can be stressful. Buying gifts for yourself? Easy. Break out the bows and wrap yourself something special this year with these holidays deals from Walmart. You deserve it. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. View the full article

TL;DR: We're braced for deals on Fitbits throughout Black Friday 2022, including popular models like the Fitbit Versa 4 and Fitbit Charge 5. There are few items that can escape Black Friday, with even the biggest of brands included in the mix. When it comes to fitness trackers and smartwatches, it doesn't get much bigger than Fitbit. We're expecting plenty of opportunities to save on Fitbit's wide range of wearables, and we'll line up the very best right throughout Black Friday 2022: Fitbit Charge 5 — £99 £169.99 (save 42%) Fitbit Versa 4 — £169 £199.99 (save 15%) It hasn't been the most explosive start to Black Friday for Fitbit deals, but that could change at any moment. We'll be ready if it does. These are the best Black Friday Fitbit deals in 2022. View the full article

The TinyMaker is a 3D printer that fits in the palm of your hand so you can take it almost anywhere. It can run off of a single power bank, making it ultra-portable. Create detailed golfball-sized objects whenever, and wherever, you need them! View the full article

The composer will debut music from the new record during a ticketed livestream concert next monthView the full article

TL;DR: Through Dec. 6, you can save up to $820 on a Leesa mattress. When is the right time to change your mattress? Jamie Diamonstein, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Leesa Mattress, gives a surprising answer: “The industry has made up things like every five years or every eight years; but the truth is, you change your mattress when it's clear that you are not sleeping well and it's likely due to the mattress age or quality.” If you’re not getting great sleep, a new mattress could help. Some people might change their mattresses when they move homes, remodel, or commit to better sleep. And since the average human spends nearly a third of their life sleeping, doing your homework on which mattress to buy is a good idea. So, once you’ve decided to change your mattress, what should you look for before you buy? According to David Wolfe, Co-Founder of Leesa, “a mattress should be designed to do three things: support your body, enable your muscles and body to rejuvenate and refresh, and provide comfort for a good night’s sleep. It would be best if you had a combination that supports your body uniformly wherever you are on the mattress, along with great edge support and a breathable comfort layer to stay cool when you sleep. The quality of the materials in the mattress will determine the durability, so it’s important to have confidence in the brand you are choosing, which can be difficult with so many choices.” Leesa’s mattresses were designed with comfort and quality in mind. Plus, they’re 100 percent American-made. And Diamonstein himself has more than 35 years of experience designing and manufacturing mattresses. Leesa offers three hybrid mattresses to choose from to fit a variety of budgets. On top of that, for Cyber Month, all of Leesa’s products are available at their deepest discount ever — up to $820 off. Leesa’s Original Hybrid is available for the more budget-conscious shopper. It features a high-quality quality spring system and foams. It’s made to be as affordable as possible without compromising quality. The middle option is Leesa's Sapira mattress, a bestseller thanks to the combination of a spring system that is made to give uniform edge-to-edge support and ventilated, body-soothing foams to help sleepers stay cool and supported while they sleep. For Leesa’s Cyber Month sale, the Sapira is available at the lowest price of the year — around $1,699 for a queen. Finally, the Leesa Legend is the luxury model spring-foam hybrid mattress. The Legend is designed for people with aches and pains and those who simply want to feel pampered when they get into bed. This mattress features multiple layers of springs and foam and is currently available at its lowest price — $2,099 for a queen. Leesa’s highly discounted Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales make it a great time to upgrade your mattress if you’re in the market. With its Cyber Month sale, save up to $700 off select mattresses and get two free pillows with your purchase (a $120 value.) Plus, if you need accessories, you can get up to $79 off organic cotton sheets, up to $50 off its Hybrid Cooling Pillows, and 20 percent off all other bedding. Don’t let Leesa’s best mattress deal of the year slip by without checking it out. Prices subject to Black Friday Sale Offer  Terms. Offer valid 11/1/2022 at 8:00 AM ET – 12/6/22 8:00 AM ET. Opens in a new tab Credit: Leesa Leesa Mattresses (opens in a new tab) Starting $1,699 at Leesa Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article

TL;DR: Through Nov. 23, you can get the State Bicycle Co. Wu-Tang Clan Bike for just $450 instead of $475 — that's a 5% discount. Bicycles are a great way of commuting or running errands and getting a little exercise while you do. It’s also better for the environment than driving your car, and you get a little time to enjoy the sights you may have missed if you were driving. This holiday season, ride in style with the State Bicycle Co.Wu-Tang Clan Core-Line Bike. This finely crafted bicycle has the legendary hip-hop group’s signature colors and is ready to ride. Celebrate the season of gratitude as we drop prices on some best sellers, including the Core-Line Bike, a deal you can get for just $450 until November 23, 11:59 pm Pacific. A smooth ride for a music loverGo for a ride with this fixed-gear single-speed bicycle themed after the Wu-Tang Clan. Despite the durable steel frame, this bike only weighs a little over 24 pounds, great for quick commuting and packing into the car. This sleek bike has comfortable platform pedals and a custom Wu-Tang Urban Comfort Saddle. You can see that same branding in the handlebars, a set of Riser Bars with custom Wu-Tang Grips. Take your new wheels out for a spin around town or along a dirt road. Hit the front and rear caliper brakes for a fast, smooth stop. This bike comes with a Deep V Wheelset with 40 mm High-Flange Hubs that have sealed bearings. If you’re looking for a simple, fun bike that isn’t over-complicated with excess gears or bells and whistles, this could be a great fit, especially because it comes in multiple sizes. Ride with the Wu-Tang Clan Looking for a simple, sleek bike that’s easy to control, fun to ride, and has a hip-hop vibe? Get the State Bicycle Co. Wu-Tang Clan Bike while it’s on sale for $450 (reg. $475) now through November 23. No coupon code needed. Prices subject to change. Opens in a new tab Credit: State Bicycle Co. State Bicycle Co. Wu-Tang Clan Bike (opens in a new tab) $450 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article

The Autism-Friendly Cookbook by journalist Lydia Wilkins compiles 100 recipes created for for autistic adults and teens to turn to when cooking for friends, lacking inspiration, or on low-energy or meltdown days. The recipes also offer adaptations for people who are sensory seekers, sensory avoiders or who want to broaden their cooking horizons in the kitchen. The book has four core chapters and suits a range of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free. Below, you can read an extract and a recipe from the The Autism-Friendly Cookbook, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers on Nov. 21. Five golden rules for autistic people in the kitchen These five rules should make up the common ground of what any autistic individual needs to remember while using The Autism-Friendly Cookbook and cooking, baking, or working with food. 1. Knowing how to help yourself can be helpful From the point of diagnosis, there seems to be this odd idea about how to deal with acknowledging that someone is on the autistic spectrum. I know of parents who have hidden their autistic child’s diagnosis, only for the child to later find out as an adult, having spent years wondering why they were different, unable to articulate or understand why. This seems to so often be dismissed as "typical teenage angst" – whatever that means – when there is an actual underlying reason. Anecdotally, there are stories where the child – now a "grown-up" – would later argue that difficulties they struggled with in the present went back to having spent so much time spent struggling, having lived under a cloud of "not knowing" and feeling out of place. SEE ALSO: What you should know about autism The justification that often came up? "I don’t want my child to experience stigma." But that is allowing a struggle to go on and is arguably worse than a stigma that is in need of challenging in the first place. Knowing yourself, your strengths and challenges you face has a huge range of benefits. "Stigma" is more of a "what if" concept – "what if I experience this?" – a hypothetical scenario. Many autistic people spoke or wrote to me about how they did not learn how to cook or prepare food because lessons were not accessible. While I understand why some may suggest they want to shield others from stigma, you cannot live life in a perpetual state of "what if". You will never know what will happen; you may even later wonder, "What could have been if…?" It also suggests that stigma is the responsibility of the autistic individual. Understanding yourself – what you find difficult or easy, your preferred textures, your sensory profile, possible triggers for distress – can have a hugely positive impact, as we can start to help ourselves when it comes to adapting the kitchen and making food accessible. We will be delving more into this in the next chapter, by way of "lifting the lid" on all things sensory. It can be difficult, and there is never just a stage of "I have learned everything". We are all works in progress, after all. 2. There is no shame in the 'not knowing' of something My job [as a journalist] relies on asking questions, which is not just in the context of an interview. Information is what empowers all of us and is what we all effectively run on; we give and receive information on a day-by-day basis. We tweet it, blog it, Facebook it, WhatsApp it, exchange it in conversation; it is the very basis of what constitutes a society of people. It is the very fabric that binds us all together as a species. SEE ALSO: How to explain autism to kids There is a huge gap in food education when it comes to autistic individuals, but research has yet to quantify this. At the time of writing, there is no data to officially provide context, but it is blindingly obvious from anecdotes, interviews, or just friendly conversations with autistic people. Many autistic people spoke or wrote to me about how they did not learn how to cook or prepare food because lessons were not accessible – or that they had not learned because they were perceived as not needing to know how to prepare food, on the basis of their condition. Another common theme was bullying and discrimination, very often connected to the state of not knowing. Some also had another condition that meant an extra layer of support was needed, which can happen when someone is on the autistic spectrum, but with infantilization added to the mix. All played a part in making the kitchen a place where many were extremely uncomfortable and/or anxious/apprehensive at times. There is no shame in the not knowing – we are all entitled, by the basic right of being a human being, to information. Information empowers us, and it is how we learn. Inaccessibility, discrimination and bullying have no place in the twenty-first century. 3. Cook for yourself – and not for the approval of anyone else We are all familiar with those moments where something is just bound to go wrong, when we end up asking, "Why me?" I have had many of those while baking and cooking, preparing the most basic of meals. For example, during one of the COVID-19 lockdowns, virtually everyone in the UK tried baking banana bread. Mine leaked out of the improvised cake tin, as the bottom was not screwed properly into place. Not bad for a first attempt, perhaps, but it did go badly wrong and was a lot smaller than it should have been and more shrivelled as a result. Before the pandemic, at the suggestion of a lecturer, I baked a weekly cake for a particular class while attending college. It was a way to make friends, apparently – my social skills are not the best, after all – but I would argue people just talked to me because of the prospect of free cake. I was baking every week for approval, which became something quite stressful. (I also remained relatively lonely, more likely to turn to books as a result.) SEE ALSO: 'Cooking in a Wheelchair' is a joyful, accessible YouTube show full of practical tips Each and every single cake would have a satirical, tongue-in-cheek theme. It was the year Donald Trump was elected, and some of us felt really sad – we got through it on the basis of puns. Cake can do a lot for misery, sometimes. Just something to bear in mind. The more I cooked or baked for approval, the more I found that something was liable to go wrong. This is just one example of that manifesting itself. Or, failing that, I could always see the faults and the flaws of what I had (imperfectly) produced. My nature can be a little too perfectionist, thanks to often trying to compensate for my executive functioning challenges. So, learn from my mistake: cook for yourself, and only yourself. The moment I did this, my self-confidence began to approve massively. And if someone criticizes that delicious, chocolate sponge cake you tried to create, because you turned it into something that looked a little like a monster to cover up some not very noticeable flaws, they can always go without a slice. 4. To be accessible, we are going to have to let go of the neurotypical standards most kitchens go by It is something that should not have to be said, let alone written in a book. We should not have to wear lanyards just to ensure basic standards, or even phone ahead to get access to venues. We should not have to lobby constantly for a basic "levelling up" of standards we are eligible for, just to reach the same standards set for a very niche demographic society holds up as "normal". We should not have to prove that we are autistic enough when applying for Personal Independence Payment, a specific benefit in the UK, to try to avoid a tribunal yet still be set up to fail. Can I let you into a secret? Come closer…closer. Whispers Accessibility matters – and to make the kitchen accessible, we are going to have to rewrite neurotypical standards of what it means to be accessible. It also will have a positive impact for everyone, and is not just ‘preferential treatment’, a phrase that seems to crop up in justifications to not provide basic accessible arrangements, when legally they should already be in place. To make the kitchen accessible, we are going to have to rewrite neurotypical standards of what it means to be accessible. It took me so many years to realize that I judged myself too harshly by marking myself against neurotypical standards, such as when it came to productivity, fitness, or any other ability. The feeling of "I am not good enough but what is it that is wrong with me?" was – and still is – immense at times. The same can said for my hit and miss style of working – well, trying to work – in the kitchen. This is a story that I see so very often when it comes to other autistic folk, too. The frustration was almost palpable; it was the taste of metal in your mouth, the feel of a balled-up fist just before a meltdown, the lack of follow-through. We will keep rules that define things such as safety, as well as keeping standards of food care in place, too. But we will not keep the standard of ‘everything having to be perfect’ – from the presentation of a recipe to the food combinations. Mistakes happen. And people sometimes have tastes that may seem outlandish to some of us – such as peanut butter on sliced apple. (That’s my sibling who likes that. Now, that is something we will never see eye to eye on. Yuck.) Cook for yourself and try to learn to let go of impossible standards. You will feel so much better for it, trust me. SEE ALSO: 4 ways tech has helped my autistic son 5. We are but a tapestry in progress The world would be a very boring place if we were all the same, with no difference, no creativity, no originality. It is the in-between where what makes us human begins and ends. We all have our faults and flaws, our better sides and more positive days. It may be frustrating at times to acquire new skills over time, but there is something beautiful in that. Be kind to yourself. Conventional autumn fruit crumbleServes four to six people Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour Energy rating: Low Skill level: Easy To make when: you need to entertain family relatives – such as if they have driven a long way to see you to stay over for the weekend; your housemates have all decided to stay in for the evening and you need a pudding of some sort. Crumble is a smell I strongly associate with my childhood. This recipe has a hands-on element, so sensory avoiders may wish to use disposable gloves. Equipment you'll need 1 butter knife 1 mixing bowl 1 set of digital scales 1 ceramic baking dish 1 piece of kitchen roll paper 1 tablespoon 1 silicone or wooden spoon Ingredients 250 grams (9 ounces) of butter plus a little extra to grease your ceramic baking dish 4 tablespoons of plain flour/all-purpose flour 1 bag of frozen blackberries and raspberries 2 pinches of brown sugar How to make Pre-preparation: Take the butter out of your fridge and allow to come to room temperature; this will make it easier to work with in the long run. Chop up into rough small chunks and put it all in the mixing bowl; measure out the flour and also add to the mixing bowl. Grease your baking ceramic dish with a little butter on the kitchen paper. Put the fruit into it. Method 1. Set your oven to 180°C/350°F and allow to heat up. 2. Rub together the flour and the butter together to get a crumb like mixture; this can take up to 10 minutes and will be the top of your crumble. Spread it evenly on top of the fruit, covering the fruit completely. 3. Sprinkle 2 pinches of brown sugar across the top of the crumble. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Expand your repertoire Try sprinkling other things on top of the crumble in addition to or instead of the sugar; desiccated coconut is one thing you could try! Porridge oats could also make a healthier mix during step 2; Re-plate half of the flour with porridge oats. The Autism-Friendly Cookbook, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers on Nov. 21, is available from bookstores now. View the full article

TL;DR: Through Nov. 23, you can get the Stowaway Fillet System for just $79.99 instead of $106 — that's a 24% discount. Shopping for a fisherman/person may have you feeling like a fish out of water, but we may have the perfect catch for you. This holiday season, we’re thankful for this great deal on the Stowaway Fillet System. This knife and cutting board set is tough and ready for action, and you can get it for $79.99 before November 23, 11:59 pm Pacific. No code needed. A fillet knife and cutting setup you can use almost anywhere Fillet knives have to be razor-sharp or you’ll ruin your catch. This fillet knife certainly meets the brief with its titanium-coated salt-tough blade, but you may also want a safe way to use and store your knife. That’s why this fillet knife folds into a non-slip ergonomic handle. There’s even a carabiner to clip the whole thing to a belt or tackle box. Prepare your fish on the Stowaway cutting board instead of waiting until you get home. This solid, high-density polyethylene cutting board has an anti-skid bottom and magnetically stays closed for easy storage. If you need to put a new edge on your blade, there’s a built-in two-stage knife sharpener right there for you. The carbide section lets you set the blade and the ceramic is for honing. No need to accidentally turn your fish into bait for the next catch when you can keep your blade sharp and your fillets even. Wash off your cutting board in the dishwasher at home, and use the Neoprene carrying case to get it there. The carrying case keeps your knife and board safe and steady so you always know where to find them. All that’s left is deciding how you’re going to cook your catch at home. A reel great deal on a gift for your favorite fishing enthusiastGift shopping for someone a nature lover or who likes to fish? Get them the Stowaway Fillet System while it’s on sale now through November 23 for $79.99 (reg. $106) — no coupon code needed. Prices subject to change. Opens in a new tab Credit: Toadfish Stowaway Fillet System (opens in a new tab) $79.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article

TL;DR: Through Nov. 23, you can get the Refurbished Apple MacBook Pro and a Lifetime License of Microsoft Office Home and Business for Mac for just $449.99 instead of $1,648 — that's a 69% discount. For college students, the holidays spell the end of one semester and soon the beginning of another. If you have a student visiting, you could send them back to school with a gift that makes the upcoming semester a little easier. This year, we’re thankful for some fantastic deals on tech and software, and your student might be too when you show them this refurbished MacBook and a lifetime license to Microsoft Office to go along with it. Get both of them on sale for just $449.99 (reg. $1,648), but you only have until November 23, 11:59 pm Pacific before the price goes back up. A gift and a tech upgrade for your college student College is hard enough, but if you don’t have the software professors expect, then there’s a lot of work you may struggle to complete. Pearson, one of the larger textbook producers in the country, even recommends that students master Microsoft Office. A lifetime license gives your student the tools and the time to get their work done. Work on essays, resumes, contracts, and more in Microsoft Word. Format, analyze, and visualize data in Excel. Create engaging slideshows, animations, and posters in PowerPoint. Your student could even get some practice sending professional emails to their professors using Outlook, a subject that comes up often enough that professional email guides are common. You can even find email templates in Outlook to help build good habits. Even the basic version of Teams could be valuable for group projects, and OneNote is a great tool for lecture notes. Wow your student with a computer to put that Microsoft Office License onto. An Intel Core i5 Processor and 8GB RAM give it enough operating power to run a variety of apps, and the 128GB SSD has plenty of room for notes, presentations from class, and productivity apps. Connect other displays to your laptop using the Thunderbolt port if you want to create a desktop workstation. You could even link a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. Give your student a gift they can use This deal won’t be around for long. Get a Refurbished Apple MacBook Pro and a Lifetime License of Microsoft Office Home and Business for Mac on sale for $449.99 (reg. $1,648) now through November 23 at midnight. No coupon code needed. Prices subject to change. Opens in a new tab Credit: Apple Refurbished Apple MacBook Pro and a Lifetime License to Microsoft Office Home and Business for Mac (opens in a new tab) $449.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article

TL;DR: We're expecting plenty of Apple deals during Black Friday 2022, including discounted Apple Watches, MacBooks, and AirPods. Apple deals always cause a stir during major shopping events like Black Friday, and the situation is no different this year. We're expecting plenty of opportunities to save on things like Apple Watches and MacBooks, and we'll do everything we can to keep you updated on the very best deals in 2022. Black Friday officially launches on Nov. 25, but experienced shoppers will know that deals start to drop well before that date. You can already find a few standout deals on Apple, and these are all worth your consideration. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) ​​​​​​​— £239 £249 (save 4%) Apple iMac (2020) — £1,429 £1,799 (save 21%) Apple iPhone 13 Pro (1TB) — £1,359 £1,449 (save 6%) Apple Watch Series 6 — £479 £649 (save 26%) Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) — £299 £319 (save 6%) We'll keep updating this page with the best Apple deals from Black Friday 2022, so be sure to check back regularly as we move through the week. These are the best Black Friday Apple deals in 2022. View the full article

So, after years of headlines and criticisms, the 2022 World Cup is now underway in Qatar. FIFA's decision to select Qatar as the host nation has been under scrutiny for a long time, with allegations of bribery as well as criticism of the country's treatment of migrant workers, women, and members of the LGBTQ community coming under the spotlight. In the Last Week Tonight video above John Oliver breaks it all down, from the deaths of foreign workers to the fact Qatar criminalises homosexuality. Through it all, he keeps drawing attention back to FIFA's role, making it clear that the organisation was aware of these issues from the start — but went ahead with the decision anyway. "There is no reason to believe that FIFA will ever do the right thing," concludes Oliver. "But I would love it if it could for just once, in its shitty history, find a way to hold itself to the lofty ideals that it has the gall to profess." View the full article

Over the past two decades, pirate sites and services frequented by millions of users have been shut down following legal action. No longer useful for spreading files, many were repurposed to spread fear. In the wake of Hollywood’s 2005 win at the U.S. Supreme Court, the website of file-sharing service Grokster was transformed into a personalized warning. Anyone visiting the site saw their own IP address alongside a message claiming it had been logged. “Don’t think you can’t get caught. You are not anonymous,” the message added. Variations on this theme have since appeared on dozens of platforms, most famously via an MPA campaign that declared “You can click but you can’t hide.” These messages were designed to instill fear and uncertainty but didn’t lead to any notable action against those who viewed them. Until now, at least. Italy’s War on IPTV Pirates Hits The Streets Most top-tier copyright holders avoid targeting consumer-level pirates, mainly because the optics aren’t great. No matter how carefully targets are chosen, suing someone’s grandma is terrible PR and even when things go smoothly, results are limited. Today’s general consensus is that hitting site operators is much more effective but whenever the opportunity appears, undermining user confidence should be part of the strategy. Italian police have been following the same model by shutting down pirate IPTV services (1,2,3) and warning users they’re up next. No Bluff: Police Tracked IPTV Subscribers Letters recently sent to homes in Italy reveal that police were not bluffing. A copy letter obtained by Iilsole24ore identifies the send as the Nucleo Speciale Tutela Privacy e Frodi Tecnologiche, a Guardia di Finanza unit specializing in IT-related crime. It refers to an anti-IPTV police operation in May. The operation targeted around 500 pirate IPTV resources including websites and Telegram channels. At the time, police also reported that 310+ pieces of IPTV infrastructure, including primary and balancing servers distributing illegal streams, were taken offline. Police also claimed that a tracking system made it possible to identify the users of the pirate streams. The letter suggests extraordinary and potentially unprecedented tactics. “Italy’s ISPs Redirected National Traffic” The letters state that Italian authorities were able to track the IPTV users by “arranging for the redirection of all Internet service providers’ national connections” so that subscribers placed their orders on a police-controlled server configured to record their activity. In comments to Iilsole24ore, Gian Luca Berruti, head of investigations at the Guardia di Finanza, describes the operation as “decisive” in the fight against cybercrime. Currently deployed to Italy’s National Cybersecurity Agency, Berruti references “innovative investigative techniques” supported by “new technological tools.” Technical details are not being made public, but it’s claimed that IPTV users were tracked by “tracing of all connections to pirate sites (IPs) combined, in real-time,” and “cross-referencing telematic information with that derived from the payment mechanisms used.” The police operation in May was codenamed Operazione:Dottor Pezzotto. A Telegram channel with exactly the same branding suffered a traffic collapse at exactly the same time. IPTV Subscribers Must Pay a Fine Finding out exactly what techniques the police used in May will take time but at face value seem more suited to terrorists than people looking for cheap streams. The fine amounts are baffling too, especially given the extraordinary effort to track IPTV users down. The letters refer to an administrative copyright infringement fine of just 154 euros or “in case of recidivism” a total of 1,032 euros. However, if people pay their fines within 60 days, the amounts are reduced to 51 euros and 344 euros respectively. “It is important to raise awareness of all citizens, especially young people, on this issue and make them understand that financing this business means financing organized crime. We must protect the healthy economy and companies that respect the rules,” Berruti says. Around 1,600 people are believed to have been targeted in this first wave of letters but according to Andrea Duillo, CEO of Sky Italia, this is just the start. “These first fines show that it is doubly dangerous to use pirated services, because not only do you hand over your personal data to criminal organizations, but you also commit an offense for which you are fined and prosecuted,” Duillo concludes. A redacted copy of the letter can be found here (pdf) From: TF, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more. View the full article

Netherlands will take on Ecuador in a group-stage FIFA World Cup clash at the Khalifa International Stadium. Kickoff time for the Netherlands vs. Ecuador match is set for 11a.m. ET on November 25 at the 45,000-seat venue in Doha. The Dutch will be hoping to secure three points after a clash with Senegal on Nov. 21. Meanwhile, the Ecuadorians will be coming from a match with Qatar. How to watch Netherlands vs. Ecuador on streaming or TVWorld Cup 2022 fans in the U.S. have a choice of options when it comes to livestreaming games at the tournament. You can watch every game on the FOX Sports family of networks, which are the official English-language broadcast partner in the United States. The Netherlands vs. Ecuador match will be shown on FOX, with broadcasters Telemundo and Universo also showing the game. Fans who prefer to use live TV streaming services have options including FuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV. Those looking to stream the games online in English can use the Fox Sports App for $19.99 per month. Spanish speakers can use Peacock Premium, which is $4.99 per month – however it will contain ads. Ad-free Premium Plus costs $9.99 monthly. When are the other Group A games?Teams will be hoping to get enough points in their three group-stage games to secure a spot in the knockout stages. SEE ALSO: FIFA World Cup 2022 schedule including how to watch The winner of Group A will play the runners-up in Group B, whereas the team that comes second place will play its winners. Group B contains Iran, Wales, USA and England. Sunday, Nov. 20: Qatar vs. Ecuador Monday, Nov. 21: Senegal vs. Netherlands Friday, Nov. 25: Qatar vs. Senegal Friday, Nov. 25: Netherlands vs. Ecuador Tuesday, Nov. 29: Ecuador vs. Senegal Tuesday, Nov. 29: Netherlands vs. Qatar View the full article

Wales will take on Iran in a group-stage FIFA World Cup clash at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium. Kickoff time for the Wales vs. Iran match is set for 5a.m. ET on November 25 at the 44,000-seat venue in Al Rayyan. The Dragons will be hoping to secure three points after a clash with USA on Nov. 21. Meanwhile, the Iranian Cheetahs will be coming from a match with England. How to watch Wales vs. Iran on streaming or TVWorld Cup 2022 fans in the U.S. have a choice of options when it comes to livestreaming games at the tournament. You can watch every game on the FOX Sports family of networks, which are the official English-language broadcast partner in the United States. The Wales vs. Iran match will be shown on FS1, with broadcasters Telemundo and Universo also showing the game. Fans who prefer to use live TV streaming services have options including FuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV. Those looking to stream the games online in English can use the Fox Sports App for $19.99 per month. Spanish speakers can use Peacock Premium, which is $4.99 per month – however it will contain ads. Ad-free Premium Plus costs $9.99 monthly. When are the other Group B games?Teams will be hoping to get enough points in their three group-stage games to secure a spot in the knockout stages. SEE ALSO: FIFA World Cup 2022 schedule including how to watch The winner of Group B will play the runners-up in Group A, whereas the team that comes second place will play its winners. Group A contains Ecuador, Netherlands, Senegal and Qatar. Monday, Nov. 21: England vs. Iran Monday, Nov. 21: USA vs. Wales Friday, Nov. 25: Wales vs. Iran Friday, Nov. 25: England vs. USA Tuesday, Nov. 29: Iran vs. USA Tuesday, Nov. 29: Wales vs. England View the full article

There's a special magic in watching a movie with friends. But even better than discovering something fun, thrilling, or fucked up as a group, is the spiky joy of knowingly sitting your loved ones down for a movie they may well hate. You know, the kind of movie where, just when you think you know what's happening, it reveals a make-or-break twist that viewers will either love or loathe. For me, this movie is Serenity. No, not that one — not the one with sexy space cowboys. I'm talking about the 2019 erotic thriller, which stars Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway and boasts a 21% on Rotten Tomatoes. Written and directed by Steven Knight, this Serenity features the familiar neo-noir trappings of a hardened man's man (McConaughey in glower mode), his glamorous and treacherous ex (Anne Hathaway living her femme fatale fantasy), and...a giant tuna named Justice. Here's where I'll entreat you to stop thinking and just watch Serenity, because no matter how you think this story of a fisherman and his unhappy old flame is going to go, you're wrong. And being wrong in this instance is wildly fun. This leads me back to my friends and a pair of movie showtimes that I'll treasure til my final days. SEE ALSO: How three goofy sequels made me fall in love with New York City As a film critic, I get early access to new movies, and so it was in a nearly empty screening room weeks ahead of its release that I first discovered the wonders of Serenity. While most of the others sat in (perhaps) stunned silence for much of the movie, I wailed with laughter, gasps, and more laughter — because Serenity is boldly bonkers. (Shout out to the other critic who was also cackling in the dark!) I admire a big swing, but I love one that risks making its audience throw popcorn at the screen. It's hard to be sure when I knew I was on its wavelength. Maybe it was when McConaughey's snarling Baker Dill (yes, that's the fisherman's name, go with it) announces that he's named the trophy fish he's determined to hook "Justice." Maybe it was when Hathaway walks into his dodgy bar (à la Casablanca?) and flashes a diamond ring that serves as a lighthouse, radiant and warning. But by the time a bespectacled Jeremy Strong turns up to Dill's humble shack to break the movie in two with its absolutely wild reveal, I knew I was smitten. I admire a big swing, but I love one that risks making its audience throw popcorn at the screen. I walked out of that theater that first time buzzing with excitement. But I also carried a smidge of sadness, which grew as I realized I'd never see Serenity for the first time ever again. I knew its secrets now. I value them, but they'd never be quite as shocking. But then, like a clap of lightning, it hit me: I could get the vicarious thrill of watching others discover this movie's madness. Want more about the latest in entertainment? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter today. When a colleague and friend asked if I wanted to go again to another press screening, I said yes without hesitation. I took a seat next to her so I could angle myself subtly to watch her expression when Strong enters the hut to snap minds. She knew I loved this movie. And when she shot me a deeply annoyed stare, it was because she'd realized why I loved it. The rush was incredible. Afterward, we discussed — or maybe argued — about the movie for hours, debating whether it was good, bad, or so bad it's good! But I wasn't through, because opening weekend was approaching. I don't know how it started. Probably something I said on social media sparked my more cinephilic friends to reach out. Maybe I even initiated the idea of a group trip to see Serenity. The origins are lost to me, but it resulted in something I'll never forget. "Serenity" now. Credit: G Bartholomew/IM Global/Kobal/Shutterstock Five of my more adventurous film-loving friends joined me on a Saturday morning to see Serenity. They knew I loved it for its abject lunacy. They wanted to learn its secrets for themselves (and maybe get a fix on just how judged I should be for my excitement). The theater was pretty busy for the early hour, though our fellow audience members had 30 to 40 years on us. Clearly, even in the chilliness of January, where Serenity had been marooned, Hathaway and McConaughey still had friends in the elders of Manhattan. As the lights went down, I tittered with anticipation and even passed around a bottle of rum I'd hidden in my bag for the occasion. I'm not normally a rum-in-the-morning person or even a sneaking-booze-into-cinemas person, but this was a special occasion. My friends laughed at my excitement, all save for one, whose eyes narrowed as he doubted his life choices. Throughout the movie, I not only enjoyed the over-the-top sensuality and cartoonish intensity of the lead performers, who absolutely understood what this movie is, but also the looks of shock, wonder, and confusion of my friends. Every time one of them giggled, gasped, or guffawed, I was elated. Then came Jeremy Strong, and oh! THE BLISS OF DISCOVERY! When we walked out, I quickly learned none of my friends were as enamored with this movie as I was. Most of them seemed low-key annoyed, as if I had tricked them. But I've never had a poker face of any sort, so they soon realized that to love me is to accept the occasional Serenity in your hangtime. As one of them put it, "I won't say you've never recommended a bad movie, but you never have recommended a boring movie." I'll take it. Another thing I took? A commemorative photo. It's a selfie from the theater's lobby. Surrounding me are my five friends, whose faces express a range of disdain, amusement, and horror, while I — closest to the camera and so overlit and gigantic — am beaming like it's Christmas morning. View the full article

Music in the digital age has been dominated by streaming services, making it easier than ever to listen to new music. But for all its convenience, the platform lacks musicians with the talent and charisma to make them memorable. Jovian, a fast-rising recording artist, signed to Sha Money XL (former manager of G Unit Records), is changing that. In case you missed it, this guy is hot right now. Having your single backed by Sha Money XL, the driving force behind Travis Scott’s “Owl Pharaoh”, is a significant coup for any up-and-coming musician. Jovian has that and more. No matter how many times you play it, Jovian’s music feels like an endless playlist of jams that sound both new and refreshing at the same time. But don’t let the sounds fool you: there are profound messages woven throughout his lyrics. It seems this artist has been through some tough stuff in life, but he’s done it all without losing himself or giving up on what he loves most: making music. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Jovian discovered his talent at a young age before finding his voice as he got older. However, he didn’t jump into music immediately. His journey in the entertainment space began with 11 years of acting school, which prepared him for life in the limelight. However, the path was not always as straightforward as Jovian would have liked. Growing up, the artist experienced several mental health challenges that made it difficult to focus on the path ahead. Jovian has been vocal about battling depression, anxiety, and body dysmorphia, and how music helped him find his healing. Jovian’s healing began when he downloaded T-Pain’s auto-tune app and channeled his feelings into melodies. Gradually, most of the noise disappeared and left him with one clear thought: he needed to use his voice to give healing to others experiencing similar pain. Jovian’s music has sensations of not only just hope but definitive healing and progress. The best way to describe him as a musician is that he’s a mix of every good artist out right now. He brings together the rapping skills, clever wordplay, punchlines, and rhythms of Kendrick Lamar, and creates melodies in the same vein as Frank Ocean. Jovian attributes his uniqueness to a rare condition called synesthesia, which allows him to not just experience color with his eyes, but with all five senses. In other words, he creates music you can touch, smell, hear, taste, and see. Mental health and healing are major themes in Jovian’s art. His songs, including his latest, “Nebraska”, are instruments of hope and empowerment, reminding the listener that life does get better. In the official teaser for “Nebraska”, Jovian explains that the song is about the trials of a relationship with toxic traits that weren’t fixed at the inception and questioning if it’s too late to fix deep habits and deep sensations of resentment, but still being hopeful because genuine love is there. He explained why he wrote it and others, “I am living proof that not only do things get better when you actively work to make them better, but I am how it looks when you get to the other side!” His goal is to make more music that anyone can absorb, be entertained, and ultimately become a better person after engaging with it. As he observes, that is very rare nowadays. This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: The Man Who Made Sure Travis Scott’s First Album Dropped Says This Artist Is Next, ‘Jovian’ View the full article

Getting your music to reach a wider audience and go viral is not easy in the highly- competitive music scene. While the modern social media-driven industry has made it easy for artists to release their music, this doesn’t create an opportunity for any song to dominate the airwaves. Musicians still need to creatively tap into their authenticity to release not only a classic hit but also a timeless tune that people can easily relate to. This is the art executed by some musical legends, including Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, to mention a few. Following the same path to musical glory is DJ 5 Day Forecast, a sensational producer, songwriter, and DJ. Born and raised in Philadelphia, DJ 5 Day Forecast has grown to become one of the top musical talents to watch out for in the industry. Music has been part of DJ 5 Day Forecast’s life from childhood, and his dream is to rule the musical waves. Learning from the best of the local and global scene, such as Cosmo Baker, Royale, Sat One, and Rich Medina, the multi-genre producer has mastered his craft, thrilling fans with his releases. DJ 5 Day Forecast has become every partygoer’s favorite, thanks to his irresistible charisma and undying love for the craft. Proving to be a cut above the rest, all his releases have been hit after hit, and he is showing no signs of slowing down. His latest sophomore single, “Baby I’m Good,” is a uniquely-crafted work of art and a clear example of his capability. “Baby I’m Good” is a high-energy single with uptempo beats that pumps up listeners with its danceable rhythm, not to forget the catchy hooks and masterfully crafted layers. DJ 5 Day Forecast’s debut track hit 50K streams across various platforms, and there is no reason to think “Baby I’m Good” wouldn’t amass the same, if not more. The fantastic summer vibes and infectious energy are a joy to listen to, helping DJ 5 Day Forecast expand his brand of music while also alluring fans worldwide. According to DJ 5 Day Forecast, the goal is to make all his releases streamed globally and for sure spread the good vibes. The versatile and ambitious producer is already hinting at plans to release a follow-up project that will cement his position in the musical game. The producer is also working on his debut EP, which he intends to drop in the coming months. He is also working on a new track that samples Mya’s 2000 hit song “Case of the Ex (Whatcha Gonna Do).” This is a unique and exciting project for DJ 5 Day Forecast as he aspires to work and collaborate with other top musical talents. To other young musicians, DJ 5 Day Forecast understands that the journey to success isn’t easy, but there is always a way around every obstacle. He encourages everyone to work hard and invest in their creativity and authenticity. Remember, the music scene is crowded, and your originality will set you apart from the rest. This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: DJ 5 Day Forecast Announces Sophomore Single, “Baby I’m Good” View the full article

Neil Nines continues the output and quality control that’s made him a DJ & Producer to watch in the DMV music scene. He’s hit us with a slew of dope releases this year, including his recent banger of a remix to Mighty Mark and Rodney Hollywood’s “The Floor Is Ours.” Nines is also making a name for himself as a community staple as someone who is passionate about connecting dots with other artists and bettering his music scene as a whole. This time around, Nines (who recently started working with rising independent label Swaggertown Records) is teaming up with Heath Allen, a veteran touring EDM club DJ, to form Allen X Nines, an EDM collaboration project formed in Baltimore. As these two successful club scene DJs continue to carve their uniquely different paths in the industry, they came together inspired by the golden age of EDM and artists such as Tiesto, KSHMR, and Cosmic Gate. Allen X Nines music blends cinematic orchestration with anthemic EDM vocals and instrumentation. Their first single, “Start A Fire”, was co-written with Nashville songwriter Sunnie Williams. The song is an ode to the feel-good festival anthems of the early 2010s that put EDM on the top 40 charts.  “Start A Fire” is an emotional journey through its symphonic breakdowns, lyrical story, and emotional mainstage drop. The song has a dual meaning as both a love story and an inspiration for listeners to start a fire in their own lives and find more meaning. Allen X Nines will be releasing a series of singles over the fall and into early 2023, which include features with vocalists from both their hometown and around the world. Allen X Nines have performed together at Mosaic, Baltimore, and look forward to more shows in the area and beyond. His connection and subsequent output with Heath Allen is another example of Neil Nines walking the walk in terms of connecting and delivering a quality product with his peers in the area. Make sure you’re keeping up with Neil on Instagram and that you give Heath Allen a follow as well, as there’s so much more to come. This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Neil Nines joins forces with Heath Allen to “Start a Fire” View the full article

TL;DR: A lifetime subscription to a Dollar Flight Club Premium Plus+ Plan (two-pack) is on sale for £131.66, saving you 95% on list price. With the price of fuel so high, airline tickets are getting expensive. Thankfully, there's a way to save on flights so you don't have to cancel that holiday you've been planning for months. Dollar Flight Club Premium (DFC) Plus+ sends a curated selection of international and domestic flight deals to your inbox so you don’t have to scour the internet for discounts. Get a two-pack of lifetime subscriptions to DFC Premium Plus+ for £131.66. No coupon code needed. This two-pack of DFC subscriptions could make an awesome gift for friends and family who want to beat inflated travel costs. And because this is a two-pack, you could grab one as a gift and keep one for yourself. All you have to do is pick your home airports and keep an eye on your inbox to see what deals fly in. DFC even checks for mistake fares, so if an airline accidentally lists a ticket for a far lower price than it should be, you'll be alerted so you have a chance to snag it. Your subscriptions also come with some extra perks that may help you out when you land. Get discounts of up to 50% on DFC partners like Babbel, Acanela Expeditions, Huckberry, and more. For a limited time, get a two-pack of Dollar Flight Club Premium Plus+ lifetime subscriptions at the Black Friday price of £131.66. Opens in a new tab Credit: DFC Dollar Flight Club Premium Plus+ Plan 2-Pack (Lifetime Subscription) (opens in a new tab) £131.66 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article

SAVE £17: The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is on sale for £37.99 this Black Friday, saving you 31% on list price. If you want to go big this Black Friday, look no further than the Fire TV Stick 4K Max — the most powerful Fire TV Stick yet. And that’s what Black Friday is all about. Splurging on the biggest and best products — those cool devices and gift items that you might not normally consider. And the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is certainly a treat this Black Friday, with its price dropped down to £37.99 — that’s 31% off the usual price of £54.99. As you’d expect, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is packed with all the standard features. There are literally countless hours of movies and shows to enjoy via top streaming platforms, including Netflix, Prime, Disney, YouTube, and plenty of others. What makes this device even more impressive is that it’s equipped with a new quad-core 1.8 GHz processor and support for impressively fast WiFi 6. An Alexa-enabled remote means you won’t even need to physically search services and channels. Just tell Alexa what you want to watch and she’ll put it on for you. This Black Friday deal is available until Nov. 29, which is actually few days after Black Friday itself. Opens in a new tab Credit: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (opens in a new tab) £37.99 at Amazon Get Deal (opens in a new tab) View the full article