Today, Pink Floyd is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock bands ever assembled. Billboard recently ranked the group No. 4 on its list of the greatest rock bands of all time, praising the band's groundbreaking blend of psychedelic and progressive rock and its lasting influence on modern music.

Pink Floyd's Debut Arrived During the Summer of Love

Released at the height of the Summer of Love, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn introduced listeners to the imaginative songwriting of Syd Barrett, whose psychedelic vision shaped the band's earliest sound.

The album mixed whimsical lyrics, experimental guitar work, and atmospheric production, laying the foundation for a career that would eventually redefine progressive rock. While Pink Floyd's later albums explored grand concepts and sprawling compositions, its debut captured the youthful creativity that first put the band on the map.

Over the decades, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn has become recognized as one of the defining albums of the psychedelic era.

Rolling Stone included the record on its list of the greatest albums of all time, writing that Barrett was "full of dust and guitars" and praising the album's mix of "playful, psychedelic imagery and acid guitars." The publication highlighted songs like "Astronomy Domine" and "Interstellar Overdrive" while noting that the record captured the spirit of 1967 as effectively as The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Although Pink Floyd would go on to produce some of the most acclaimed albums in rock history, everything began with The Piper at the Gates of Dawn.

Fifty-nine years after its release, the album remains an essential listen for rock fans and serves as the opening chapter of one of music's most remarkable careers.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Five years later, Gerard returned for a standalone sequel. While the film was a commercial success, one of its stars would later become one of its harshest critics.

Robert Downey Jr. Didn't Hold Back

Directed by Stuart Baird, U.S. Marshals follows Tommy Lee Jones' Sam Gerard and his team as they pursue a murder suspect played by Wesley Snipes after a prisoner transport crashes.

Robert Downey Jr. co-stars as Diplomatic Security Service agent John Royce, a mysterious government operative whose true motives gradually come into focus.

Years after the film's release, Downey Jr. reflected on the experience with unusual candor. In Robert Downey Jr.: The Fall and Rise of the Comeback Kid, the actor called U.S. Marshals "possibly the worst action movie of all time."

He was equally blunt in a later interview with The A.V. Club, saying he remembered little about the production beyond "running around and pretending like we could ever hold a candle to The Fugitive."

RDJ's comments echoed many critics' reactions at the time.

U.S. Marshals currently holds a 31% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, with many reviewers arguing it failed to capture the suspense and emotional stakes that made The Fugitive such a hit.

Despite the critical reception, audiences still turned out. The film grossed more than $100 million worldwide, proving there was plenty of interest in seeing Tommy Lee Jones reprise his Oscar-winning role as Sam Gerard.

'U.S. Marshals' Is Now Streaming Free

Whether viewers agree with Downey Jr.'s harsh assessment or see U.S. Marshals as an underrated '90s action thriller, the film is once again easy to watch.

As of Aug. 1, the 1998 sequel is available to stream free on Tubi, giving action fans an opportunity to revisit one of Tommy Lee Jones' most memorable roles, and decide for themselves whether Downey Jr.'s famous criticism was justified.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Good

The Return of Kevin Owens

What else could it be? Owens had been gone from the ring for almost 18 months due to a serious neck injury that required surgery and threatened his career. His unscheduled return for an impromptu fatal four-way match drew the loudest pop of the weekend. Owens then went on to win the match, setting up a tantalizing first-time encounter with WWE Champion CM Punk and injecting life into a suddenly stacked main-event scene on SmackDown. There’s some built-in tension with Punk, as Owens is friends with AEW’s Young Bucks. The promos and in-ring work should be excellent. Other highlights:

• It’s time to dust off the “You deserve it” chants for Chelsea Green and Chad Gable, both of whom won long-overdue titles on Night 2. Gable, in particular, who languished as Shorty G under the previous regime, more than earned his moment.
• It was a good weekend for Solo Sikoa and Nick Aldis as well. Aldis, a former champion in NWA and TNA, finally got to perform on the big stage. Meanwhile, it was nice to see Sikoa get some love from the crowd as he has languished ever since breaking away from Roman Reigns.

The Bad

Hell in a Cell

Although the match between Brock Lesnar and Oba Femi wasn’t bad, what exactly was the point of the cell? The entire layout of the match better fit a standard No-DQ stipulation as they built around spots within the ring. After what CM Punk and Drew McIntyre accomplished in bringing back the aura of Hell in a Cell, this match fell flat. This wasn’t violent enough for the cell, and not having blood was a mistake. It also didn’t help that Femi missed the exposed wood panels with his finisher, making Lesnar lose clean to a standard move. Other lowlights:

• Baron Corbin beating Trick Williams means WWE doesn’t have a male singles champion under the age of 40; Punk is 47, Reigns and Corbin are 41, and Gable is 40.
• Danhausen can be entertaining in small doses, but his match with Dominik Mysterio was somehow too goofy and not goofy enough. Also, it’s weird that Mysterio is the top champion in AAA, but in WWE he’s jobbing to Danhausen.

The Ugly

Mug Root Beer

Lash Legend’s nasty-looking powerbomb on Tiffany Stratton made its case, and "BM Punk's" questionable incident made him the butt of social media jokes. On a cleaner note, the latest in WWE/TKO/ESPN’s relentless advertising barrage gets the nod. After Gable won the Intercontinental Championship in his home state, he brought his wife, kids, and parents into the ring to celebrate. It was the end of a redemption arc that began in early 2025 and mirrored his promo after getting unmasked in Mexico. Rather than allowing Gable to bask in the moment, a guy in a dog mask showed up as part of a cross-promotion for Mug Root Beer. Gable would go on to chug the root beer while Michael Cole said, “He’s got that dawg in him.” Gross.

Related: The 10 Best Matches in SummerSlam History

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Key Facts at a Glance

Where Can You Buy the Air Jordan 3 'Laser Orange'?

The smaller size run is the whole reason this one is a bargain, so if you fit it, you are getting a White Cement look for well under what it cost new.

StockX lowest asks run roughly $110 to $155 against the $190 retail, with the deepest size run of anywhere. Sole Retriever points to Flight Club and GOAT as the other reliable options. Men convert by subtracting 1.5, so a women's 12 lands at a men's 10.5, the same math that makes other size-capped AJ3s affordable.

What Makes This Retro Stand Out?

Jordan Brand kept the heel Jumpman black on purpose, which is the restraint that lets the orange actually land.

Laser Orange shows up on the midsole wedge, lower eyelets, tongue lining, tongue Jumpman, and hangtag, all set against white tumbled leather and cement grey elephant print on the toe and heel. The construction follows March 2020's 'UNC' 3, with a smooth un-piped leather tongue and a 2D embroidered Jumpman. Pairs even shipped in special elephant print packaging, a detail OG-faithful retros rarely bother with.

Why Does It Still Matter?

Nobody in the sneaker community actually cares which side of the size chart a colorway came from anymore, and this pair is part of why.

Sneaker News noted at launch that the shoe never arrived in men's sizing yet became a favorite across the board almost immediately. StockX frames it as part of a larger shift, with women's exclusives moving from afterthought to genuine demand driver. Jordan Brand has leaned into that since, and women's AJ3 releases now get full OG treatment.

Should You Buy the Air Jordan 3 Retro 'Laser Orange' 2020?

If your size exists, this is one of the easiest yeses in the Jordan 3 lineup right now.

Six years on, it still sits below its release price with no reissue scheduled, which almost never happens on a 3 this clean. Reviewers have flagged the leather as soft rather than premium, so temper expectations on materials. Still, a White Cement silhouette for around $130 is a different value proposition than the raffle-bound releases filling the calendar.

Related: Air Jordan 13 'Cap and Gown' — Triple-Black Formal Flex, Patent-Suede Upgrade, Black-Tie Energy: Where to Buy

Related: Air Jordan 5 'Island Green' — Hidden Leopard 3M, Minty Tiffany Tone, Singles' Day Sleeper: Where to Buy

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Style section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

One acclaimed 1991 drama failed to recoup its production budget during its theatrical run, earning just $6.3 million worldwide against an estimated $7.5 million budget.

Despite its disappointing box office performance, the film has only grown in stature over the decades, and it's even become legendary actor Robert Duvall's highest-rated movie.

A Critical Darling That Didn't Find an Audience

Rambling Rose, directed by Martha Coolidge and starring Laura Dern, Robert Duvall, Diane Ladd, and Lukas Haas, is Robert Duvall's highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes, with a 100% critics score.

Set during the Great Depression, the story follows a troubled young woman named Rose, who is taken in by a Southern family while trying to escape a difficult past. As she settles into their home, her presence begins to test the family's relationships in unexpected ways.

While moviegoers largely overlooked the film in 1991, critics praised its heartfelt storytelling and powerful performances. Rotten Tomatoes' critics consensus describes it as "a touching, bittersweet, and wonderfully acted film."

Although it wasn't a commercial success, Rambling Rose earned significant recognition during awards season.

Laura Dern received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, while her real-life mother, Diane Ladd, was nominated for Best Supporting Actress. Their nominations marked the first time a mother and daughter were nominated for acting Oscars for performances in the same film.

The movie also earned Golden Globe nominations, further cementing its reputation as one of the year's standout dramas.

One of Robert Duvall's Most Acclaimed Performances

Although Duvall has starred in iconic films including The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, Tender Mercies, and Lonesome Dove, and Rambling Rose isn't exactly a fan-favorite with a 58% audience rating, but the critic consensus puts it on top of all his other iconic projects.

More than three decades after its release, the film's journey from box office disappointment to critical favorite serves as a reminder that commercial success isn't always the measure of a movie's lasting impact.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Rivera's character played a vital role in the biggest reveal of the Marvel film, released in 2021, in which Ned Leeds (played by Jacob Batalon), along with MJ (Zendaya) take shelter at Lola's house and use Dr. Strange's magic to open portals, in an attempt to locate Peter Parker, played by Tom Holland.

Therein lies the twist of the film — that Ned and MJ mistakenly open portals to find Peter Parker/Spider-Man from other universes, later dubbed "Peter-Two" (Tobey Maguire) and "Peter-Three" (Andrew Garfield), reprising their iconic roles from previous Marvel franchises. In the climax of the film, the three Peters work together to combat the universe-bending amalgamation of their greatest archnemeses — but not before performing some housekeeping tasks for Ned's beloved Lola.

According to an exclusive report by TMZ, Rivera's family disclosed that the actress died on April 15 this year in Honolulu, Hawaii. The family also stated that she died from complications of a stroke, after a poor prognosis from physicians resulted in "the family [making] the difficult decision to remove her from life support."

No Way Home was Rivera's only on-screen role, one that she was "extremely proud" of her appearance in one of the biggest movies of all time, her family detailed. Rivera worked as a church missionary before her retirement and acting endeavour.

In an interview with Hawai’i Public Radio’s The Conversation dating back to 2022, obtained via Entertainment Weekly, her role came from an advertisement from the studio in Hawaii, where Jacob Batalon, who played her on-screen grandson, is from.

“I happened to be on a friend’s Facebook scrolling, and I see an ad, a casting call looking for a local Hawaiʻi Filipina grandmother between the age of 50 and 90,” Rivera's daughter, Angie Kelly, said in the interview. “And immediately I thought, ‘Oh, well my mom qualifies and checks off all those boxes.’”

“They just asked her to talk about herself and why she wanted to do the role. So she just gave a brief history of her time in the Philippines and what brought her to the United States, and raising her four children and 11 grandchildren — and basically that that is her biggest accomplishment of everything that she’s done,” Kelly continued. “My mom has worn many hats over the years. She was a radio broadcaster, a teacher, but most notable was her role as a mother and grandmother.”

Rivera is survived by her husband, Alejandro Rivera, four children, 11 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, according to the family's statement to TMZ. Batalon paid tribute to his co-star on Entertainment Weekly's Instagram post reporting her death, commenting, "REST IN PARADISE LOLA," followed by heart and crying emojis.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Thirty years ago, one infectious dance track completed its remarkable rise to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, kicking off a chart run that would eventually make music history. Decades later, it's still impossible for many listeners to hear its opening notes without instinctively remembering the dance that went with it.

The song has continued to earn recognition long after its chart dominance ended. VH1 once called it the greatest one-hit wonder of all time, while American Songwriter has described it as the defining one-hit wonder of the 1990s.

A Song That Took Over the World

"Macarena" by Spanish duo Los del Río took the airwaves by storm.

Although the original version already found success overseas, it was the Bayside Boys Remix — featuring English-language verses — that transformed the song into an international sensation.

On Aug. 3, 1996, "Macarena" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, beginning a remarkable 14-week reign atop the chart. At the time, it became one of the longest-running No. 1 hits in Billboard history. The song ultimately spent a whopping 60 weeks on the Hot 100.

Its popularity extended far beyond radio. The instantly recognizable choreography became a staple everywhere from weddings and sporting events to school dances and political gatherings, helping turn the song into one of the defining pop culture moments of the decade.

Why It's Still Considered the Ultimate One-Hit Wonder

While Los del Río enjoyed a long career in Spain, they never came close to matching the crossover success of "Macarena" in the United States. That singular achievement has led many music critics to view the duo as the quintessential one-hit wonder.

Thirty years after reaching No. 1, "Macarena" remains one of the most recognizable songs ever recorded.

Its record-setting chart run, worldwide popularity, and lasting influence on pop culture have ensured that what began as a catchy dance song has become one of the defining musical phenomena of its era—and, according to many critics, the greatest one-hit wonder of all time.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Unfortunately, as things tend to go for someone at the top of the food chain and wearing the gold, the "Original Tribal Chief" was interrupted during his chat with all of his adoring fans in Idaho, as LA Knight's theme music kicked in.

But perhaps more unfortunately, LA Knight may have some regrets and need a little time to recover from his bold decision to confront the champ, who was happy to show off his $300,000-plus Audemars Piguet watch, one that "a megastar wears on his wrist," while demeaning Knight's appearance.

Roman Reigns Requests Zoom-in On $300K Watch, Mocks LA Knight's "Walmart Watch"

Before taking a look at the watch that could probably be swapped for a house, the entire response from Reigns in verbally taking down LA Knight is well worth taking in:

"Who the hell you talking to? Fraud? I only see one fraud," Reigns said. "I don't come out here talking about being a megastar and then wear a Walmart watch on my wrist. A megastar, yeah ... zoom in. This is what a megastar wears on his wrist, you understand me? Skeleton Tourbillon."

ROMAN REIGNS COOKED LA KNIGHT. KNOW YOUR PLACE LIL BRO. pic.twitter.com/FTZy0eWVg0

— iBeast (@ibeastIess) August 4, 2026

What Reigns was specifically referring to there is his limited edition Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon watch that runs anywhere from $300,000 to $350,000.

As the biggest name in the WWE and all of professional wrestling, the watch is well within Reigns' budget considering the 41-year-old star is reportedly making $15 million a year.

Here's a look at the pricey timepiece:

Roman Reigns to LA Knight:

“Fraud? Who the hell are you talking to? I only see one fraud. You come out here calling yourself a Megastar, then wear a Walmart watch on your wrist. A Megastar? Zoom in. This is what a Megastar wears.”#WWERAW pic.twitter.com/rkckpbVB6g

— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) August 4, 2026

And provided below is an even closer look, with the proper description to match:

Roman Reigns was wearing a watch that costs $300k-$350k

“the black ceramic construction, octagonal bezel, skeleton dial, chronograph pushers, and bracelet design are unmistakable. It’s a high-end piece that routinely trades in the $300k–$350k+ range.”#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/bsRqj8riLu

— RingsideChasers (@RingsideChasers) August 4, 2026

Wrestling fans always seem to get their fair share of mockery, but the quickness in which some viewers flexed their real-time knowledge of luxury watches simply cannot be denied here.

Additionally, all of those low hanging fruit, "watching wrestling in your mom's basement" type of jokes seem pretty stale at this point, as the WWE has long been in the mainframe of sports to the point that highlights from major events like Sunday night's SummerSlam are being featured on ESPN's SportsCenter in the show's opening segment.

On a completely different note, what's especially crazy about the pricey, stellar watch that Reigns proudly showed off to the crowd, to LA Knight, and to the countless Netflix viewers at home was that it still pales in comparison to what the likes of Tom Brady sports on a regular basis, with "TB12" frequently seen wearing watches that are frighteningly priced close to the seven figure range.

The common thread, however, is that both Brady and Reigns do share the same top-tier taste, as the greatest quarterback of all time also has a strong affection for the Audemars Piguet brand.

Regardless, life is certainly great right now for Reigns, the clear face of WWE, and has been for quite some time.

THIS VISUAL OF EVERYONE THROWING UP THE ONES WITH ROMAN REIGNS

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥#WWERAW pic.twitter.com/Ft65wyPNW1

— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) August 4, 2026

The entire crowd in Idaho throwing up "the ones" for the "Head of the Table" and their "Original Tribal Chief" would tell you as much.

Related: 41 Years Ago Today: 5 Managers Waited, Then Miss Elizabeth Walked In for Randy Savage

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Each episode parodies a different era of classic sitcoms, from I Love Lucy to Malcolm in the Middle. Underneath the parody, the show hints at a darker mystery.

Kathryn Hahn co-stars as the show's scene-stealing villain, Agatha Harkness. The series marked Marvel Studios' first television project on Disney+ and its first official Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) series.

WandaVision earned 23 Emmy nominations, the most ever for a Marvel series. Nominations included Outstanding Limited Series, lead acting nods for both Olsen and Bettany, and a supporting nod for Hahn.

Why Rolling Stone Calls WandaVision the Greatest Marvel Series Ever

Rolling Stone ranked WandaVision No. 1 on its list of the best Marvel television shows. The outlet praised the series for finding real emotional depth inside its sitcom-style format.

According to Rolling Stone, the show succeeded by grounding its strange premise in genuine grief. The line "What is grief, if not love persevering?" set a bar the outlet said no later series has matched.

WandaVision beat out several well-regarded titles to claim the top spot. Daredevil landed at No. 2, followed by Agent Carter at No. 3.

Jessica Jones and Loki rounded out the top five, at No. 4 and No. 5. Neither matched WandaVision's blend of format and emotional weight, per Rolling Stone.

The show also became a genuine cultural moment during its run. It broke into Nielsen's top 10 most-watched streaming shows within its first week.

That success came even with just two episodes released at the time. It outpaced Disney+'s own hit series, The Mandalorian, during that same stretch.

The series' sitcom pastiche structure gave later Marvel shows a model to build on. Few, according to Rolling Stone, have matched its emotional impact since.

Related: 12 Years Ago Today: One of the 'Best Superhero Movies of All Time' Premiered

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

According to an article on the Pro Football Hall of Fame website, British interest in the NFL had risen in the years leading up to the game, when in 1982, television in London started playing highlights of American football. The Bears were coming off their Super Bowl victory earlier that year, and their vaunted defense kept the momentum rolling into Wembley, with defenders Dave Duerson and William "The Refrigerator" Perry scoring their two touchdowns.

Since that preseason game, 27 regular season contests have taken place in London. In addition to Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Twickenham Stadium have also hosted NFL games in England. Mexico City, Munich, Frankfurt, and São Paolo, Brazil, have been the site of NFL games in recent years. And last season, Dublin, Berlin, and Madrid welcomed the NFL for their first regular season games. In 2026, Melbourne, Australia, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, will hold their inaugural NFL games.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has said in the past that he would like an NFL team to be based in the United Kingdom, but that dream still seems far off. The Jacksonville Jaguars were at one point rumored to be mulling a move to London, especially since Jags owner Shahid Khan also owns a Premier League club. But that was a hard sell for the rest of the league, who would be forced to travel across an ocean.

The Bears and Cowboys of 1986, like the teams of the present day, all likely feel the same: one international trip a season is plenty.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The biggest takeaway? Seems like Ritchson tried to walk away, and that the man he hit—Ronnie Taylor—might have antagonized him. Check out the new video segment from Armchair Expert to hear Ritchson's side of the story.

Alan Ritchson talks publicly about that viral neighbor fight

By now, most probably know the basic details of the fight: Ritchson was riding a motorcycle with his two young sons in a neighborhood in Brentwood, Tennessee. While Taylor claims that he had spoken to Ritchson about slowing down and told TMZhe had had words with Ritchson before, Ritchson denies all of this in his recent appearance on Armchair Expert.

"I never met that guy before in my life," Ritchson told Dax Shepard. "He lied to TMZ."

Ritchson admits the motorcycle was loud — but that he wasn't driving fast

Because Ritchson was riding a custom motorcycle, he told Shepard that he understood that the bike was "very loud." But he says he and his boys weren't speeding at all.

"All of a sudden he steps in front of me," Ritchson says. "I get close to him and smell alcohol... I tried to walk away."

Ritchson then makes it clear that Taylor didn't let him leave, and even though Ritchson tried to remove himself from the situation, Taylor knocked him off the motorcycle, which, according to Ritchson, is the incident that truly incited the altercation. "You can't really tell on the body camera, but he two-handed shoves me off the bike," Ritchson explains to Shepard.

"I hit the guy"

After Taylor shoved Ritchson off the bike, for Ritchson, this was the point of no return. "That was it; at that point, there was no more conversation," Ritchson explains. "I've got to protect me, and I've got to protect my kids, and I've got to get us off the street safely, and that means getting him out of the picture...so I hit the guy."

Was Ritchson justified? Maybe, maybe not. But as many dads can attest, if someone steps to you when your kids are present, all other considerations go out the window.

Local police sided with Ritchson, noting that he acted in self-defense, and, as such, no criminal charges were filed. One thing's for certain: Ritchson probably gave Taylor more chances than Reacher would have in the same situation

Reacher Season 4 hits Prime Video on August 12, 2026.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Directed by Martin Scorsese and written by Paul Schrader, the film built its reputation on Bickle's unraveling mental state. It earned four Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor for De Niro.

The film also introduced one of cinema's most quoted lines, "You talkin' to me?", improvised by De Niro during filming. It further cemented De Niro's status as one of the era's defining leading men.

Despite the acclaim, the film went home empty-handed on Oscar night. Decades later, the movie is still considered one of the era's most glaring award snubs.

Inside One of Scorsese's Most Painful Oscar Losses

Taxi Driver lost Best Picture to Rocky at the 1977 Academy Awards. The Guardian later ranked the loss No. 6 on its list of the 20 greatest Oscar snubs in history.

The outlet called it Scorsese's most painful loss among several. He was also beaten for Raging Bull, which lost to Ordinary People, and Goodfellas, which lost to Dances with Wolves.

Some critics were initially divided on Taxi Driver itself, with a few dismissing Schrader's script as excessive. That reception shifted dramatically in the decades since.

The irony deepened years later. When Scorsese finally won Best Picture, it came for The Departed, a remake of the Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs.

Taxi Driver earned four nominations total, including Best Actor for De Niro and Best Supporting Actress for Foster. None converted into a win.

Despite eight Best Director nominations across his career, Scorsese has won the award only once. Taxi Driver remains one of the clearest examples of the Academy failing to recognize his work in the moment.

Related: 2001 Action Film Named One of Robert Redford's Greatest Movies

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Right up front, Beast of Reincarnation doesn’t feel cut from the same cloth as Dark Souls or Elden Ring, although it does contain staples of the Soulslike genre, such as save points that regenerate enemies when you rest at them. What it lacks, however, is the harsh punishment for failure. Any time you’re defeated, you are simply sent back to your most recent campsite, fully recovered, and head out again. There is no loss of in-game currency or progression. There are also multiple difficulty settings, including a “story” mode where death seems next to impossible, meaning it’s accessible in a way many Soulslikes are not.

Combat is interesting, and it’s easily the game’s highlight. Billed as a “one-person, one-dog” game, you control Emma, a “sealer” whose purpose is to fight corrupted monstrosities and absorb their powers. She is accompanied by Koo, a massive dog who battles alongside her. They each have their own set of attributes, skills, and equipment to manage, which includes a literal skill tree with dozens of moves and combos to be unlocked and upgraded. There’s a robust selection, and skill points are acquired at such a rate that you’ll be learning and buffing moves with regularity as you make your way through the world.

Although there is no stamina meter, the rhythm to combat is still similar to FromSoftware’s library where countering and dodging are key to success. Done correctly, you’ll open your foes up for hits while building their stagger meter. You can brute force some of the game’s lesser enemies, but things can go south in a hurry if you get complacent, particularly when dealing with groups.

Action is typically fast-paced, but there’s some variety built in, so not every encounter need be tackled the same. You can sneak up on enemies for one-hit assassinations. A pair of ranged weapons can be used to eliminate others at distance. Koo can be sent ahead to engage foes, or you can pull up a menu mid-fight that slows time and allows you to direct Koo to utilize one of his special skills. The game does a good job of introducing these skills and creating a fair learning curve, and I don’t recall ever feeling ill-prepared for what I was asked to face.

Unfortunately, the number of enemy types can’t match the combat in terms of variety, and you’ll be seeing a lot of the game’s foes from one area to the next. Even within the boss encounters, Beast of Reincarnation falls into repetitive setups where you often fight an area’s guardian (known as Nushi) early on upon entering a new zone and get the better of it, only for it to run off and have you chase it for an eventual two-phase final battle. Absorb their essence, return to your mobile base, and move on to the next area. Rinse and repeat.

Beyond the skill tree, there are also some light RPG elements. Emma collects numerous swords along the way, each of which has its own unique effects (like lightning or fire damage) and can be upgraded using Amber, the game’s currency used to buy/upgrade items. There are also different armors she can equip as well as stones that work as buffs. Koo, meanwhile, uses charms that can boost defense, attack, or other attributes, and he has active and passive abilities you can choose from to complement your build.

Exploring the game’s zones is decent, though as with the enemies, the variety within them leaves something to be desired. Still, each area is packed with items—Koo will identify these as you move around, marking them on your map—and things like optional mini-bosses. You can revisit them if you’d like, though this isn’t a Metroidvania where new abilities will grant access to previously unreachable areas. It’s just for going back to farm for experience or hunt for items you missed.

Graphically, Beast of Reincarnation is a good-looking game, though outside of a few interesting effects related to the way plants sprout under your feet as you move there’s nothing that really stands out. The audio is unremarkable as well. By default, the game is in Japanese, with the option to switch to English available only on the initial screen. I almost always prefer original language to dubbing, and the Japanese voice acting better matches the game’s tone.

There’s a tradeoff to experiencing the game that way, however, as you will routinely have conversations with other characters while actively playing. So unless you understand Japanese, you’ll either have to find somewhere quiet to stand still and read the subtitles or miss what’s said.

It’s debatable how much you’re actually missing as easily the weakest aspects of Beast of Reincarnation are its story and characters. Emma is mostly bland in the lead role, though her relationship with Koo at least does enough to move things forward. Everyone else ranges from completely forgettable (Brad) to downright annoying (Kagura). The number of sheepish conversations Kagura has with Emma about her role as the mission’s cook is ridiculous. We’re actively trying to save the world—how many times do we need to discuss the culinary arts?

The game also struggles to convey an engaging story. At issue even more than the actual substance of the plot is the glacial pace at which it’s told. So many conversations go absolutely nowhere. Emma will ask a question, be told now isn’t the time, and then she’ll just say “Understood,” and move right along.

I get wanting to build tension and not reveal all the twists and turns up front, but at least come up with a storyline reason for this narrative drip feed or use the early hours to flesh out the relationships within your team. While it improves toward the end, the first 20-plus hours are just one “we’ll talk about this later” interaction after another. Beast of Reincarnation is far from the first game (or film) to string things out unnecessarily, but rarely has it felt so frustratingly overdone.

Final Score (7/10)

Beast of Reincarnation mostly delivers the action aspects of the genre with fast-paced combat, tough but fair gameplay, and lots of different skills to learn and utilize. The RPG half doesn’t fare nearly as well, though, with a story arc that spins its wheels for far too long and a forgettable-at-best cast of characters. Ultimately, the gameplay does enough to make it worth experiencing, but the story is something to endure instead of enjoy. 

Related: 'Halo: Campaign Evolved' Review: Back to the Future

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

He and iconic actor Cary Grant had worked on two films together, Suspicion (1941) and Notorious (1946), but Hitchcock found himself attempting to lure Grant out of a brief retirement.

While Grant thought he was done with the big screen, Hitchcock – and Grace Kelly – were about to find their leading man for To Catch a Thief.

How Alfred Hitchcock Lured Cary Grant out of Retirement

Grant was Hitchock's first choice to play opposite Kelly, but he stepped away from Hollywood after the disastrous Dream Wife.

"Grant, unfortunately, had just announced his retirement from acting. For Hitchcock, though, he would at least hear him out over a poolside lunch. The director outlined the plot for the star; a jewel thief who became a hero in the French Resistance is suspected of taking up his old ways when a series of robberies plague the wealthy set. To keep the gendarmes off his back, he has to track down the real bandit," Turner Classic Movies revealed.

Grant agreed to read the script, but still didn't initially accept the role until Hitchcock's final message, "It might help you as you're reading, Grace Kelly has agreed to play the girl and a good part of the picture will be shot on the Riviera."

In the end, Grant accept the role and To Catch a Thief had its stars. He would go on to work with Hitchcock on one other film, consistently noted among his best, North by Northwest.

To Catch a Thief owns a nearly-perfect 95% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes while audiences gave the film an 84%.

Related: 58 Years Ago Today: One of the Greatest Westerns of All Time, Starring Clint Eastwood, Was Released

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Fan Claims MCU/Sony’s Spider-Man Doesn’t Have “Iconic Spider-Man Villain”

Searching through social media, there are plenty of opinions on Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The following post from Marvel Mania on X (formerly Twitter) is gaining traction for its thoughtful critique of the movie and the overall Marvel/Sony cinematic collaboration. The account stated: 

“Marvel accidentally created the biggest problem for Tom Holland's Spider-Man.

“Four solo movies later, and he still doesn't have a single iconic Spider-Man villain that's actually his.

“Vulture's conflict was because of Tony Stark. Mysterio wanted revenge on Iron Man. No Way Home brought back Green Goblin, Doc Ock, Electro, Lizard and Sandman but they all belonged to other universes, not the MCU's Peter Parker.

“Then Brand New Day doubled down on the problem by making the main threats mutant/X-Men characters instead of classic Spider-Man villains. Even if the movie works, it's another film where Peter isn't building rivalries with his own rogues gallery.”

Marvel accidentally created the biggest problem for Tom Holland's Spider-Man.

Four solo movies later, and he still doesn't have a single iconic Spider-Man villain that's actually his.

Vulture's conflict was because of Tony Stark. Mysterio wanted revenge on Iron Man. No Way Home… pic.twitter.com/kP2LOpADpP

— Marvel Mania (@Sksj002) August 3, 2026

Does Tom Holland’s Spider-Man Have a Villain Problem?

The answer to this question is largely subjective. As such is the case, I’ll only offer my take. Personally speaking, I’d say the critique offered in the social media post was correct in terms of a villain. Across the four solo movies where Holland starred as Spider-Man, there hasn’t been an iconic version of a Spider-Man villain that stands out. There’s an argument to be made that Michael Keaton’s Vulture in Spider-Man: Homecoming was an exceptional antagonist, but as mentioned above, Vulture had a deep gripe with Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.). There was no real issue between Iron Man and Spider-Man other than the latter trying to prevent the former from wreaking havoc in general. 

Additionally, as much as I’m a fan of Sadie Sink portraying Jean Grey, a de facto villain in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Jean Grey has so much history as an X-Men, and there’s so much anticipation for the rebooted live-action film for that franchise, it’s hard to see her as an iconic villain for Holland’s Spider-Man. 

All that being said, while the social media post is astute in its assessment of villains, I don’t think this is a big problem for Marvel or Sony. I appreciate not seeing the Green Goblin and Doctor Octopus in every movie, and think it was smart not to have the characters so incorporated in this newer user universe so they can’t constantly be compared with those of the Toby Maguire era. 

It’s also worth noting that Holland has done such a remarkable job with his portrayal of Spider-Man that sometimes it’s hard to see him as anything else. Even though he did a great job in Odyssey, there were even times when I was watching where I was just waiting for him to fling a web or two. 

But hey, these are just my thoughts. What do you think?

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Today, August 3, 2026, marks the 26th anniversary of the original Japanese release of Grandia 2 on the Dreamcast. A follow-up to the 1997 PlayStation title, Grandia 2 featured a new cast of characters, a more mature tone, and fully 3D character models and environments.

Grandia 2 follows the story of Ryudo, a mercenary, as he escorts a priestess named Elena to a ceremony and eventually gathers a party to clear Elena of a dark power. Combat is turn-based and was one of the earliest adopters of "Active Time Battle" mechanics.

According to Metacritic, the original Dreamcast version of the game is currently sitting at a 90 Metascore. Critics praised the game's story, character customization, RPG mechanics, and combat, with some critics citing the combat system as one of the genre's best.

Since its initial release, Grandia 2 has been ported several times and is available on modern consoles and PC. Remasters were released in 2019 for PC and Nintendo Switch, and in 2024 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

Grandia 2 was ported to the PlayStation 2 in 2002, but spent a couple of years as a Dreamcast exclusive title. The ill-fated console would also see Skies of Arcadia released on it, another well-received and popular-to-this-day JRPG.

The Dreamcast would go on to be a notable failure in the video game industry, largely attributed to more fan excitement for the PlayStation 2 and a lack of developer support, despite having several cult classic game releases, such as Sonic Adventure and Resident Evil Code: Veronica.

Still, to this day, Grandia 2 remains one of the greatest achievements of the Dreamcast.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Netflix makes a plethora of changes to its library every month, subtracting more than 100 movies and TV series and replacing them with others. What's on Netflix has an early look at what is leaving the platform next month.

One of the shows Netflix is removing is Nashville, the award-winning musical comedy which aired on ABC and CMT from 2012-18.

More on Nashville's departure

According to What's on Netflix, all six seasons of Nashville will exit the app on Tuesday, September 15. The first four seasons ran on ABC before the network canceled it; CMT then renewed the series and began broadcasting new episodes in December 2016.

Starring Connie Britton, a 40-year-old star on the decline, and Hayden Panettiere, a rising sensation and former teen pop queen, the show focuses on the country music industry. Other major roles are played by Clare Bowen, Charles Esten, Jonathan Jackson, Sam Palladio, Robert Wisdom, Powers Boothe and others.

The show was critically acclaimed and loved by audiences

In addition to winning honors from the Critics' Choice Television Awards, Guild of Music Supervisors Awards, Voice Awards and other panels, Nashville was well-liked by fans.

All six seasons of Nashville have high approval ratings on Rotten Tomatoes; overall, the entire series has a 91% mark.

Season-by-season, the show stacks up like this:

• Season 1: 91% approval rating, "Certified Fresh," 53 reviews
• Season 2: 100% approval rating, albeit with only nine reviews
• Season 3: 100% approval rating, only eight reviews
• Season 4: 89% approval rating, nine reviews
• Season 5: 83% approval rating, six reviews
• Season 6: 86% approval rating, seven reviews

The show also has an 84% approval rating ("Universal Appeal") on Metacritic and a 7.7/10 mark on IMDb.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

While on the podcast Armchair Expertwith Dax Shepard on August 3, Eastwood talked about shooting the war film Fury.

“It’s funny. The film industry attracts psychopaths because it’s art and business and they kind of intersect,” He stated.

The confrontation started when LaBeouf got upset about a scripted moment where Eastwood spits tobacco on a tank. Eastwood said he thought “enough’s enough” and told him to stop or he would “whoop [his] a--.”  

It wasBrad Pittwho got between them to stop the fight. Pitt, who has been in the news recently because his children have dropped his surname from theirs after years of abuse allegations, explained that he had agreed with LaBeouf at the time because neither man realized that it was in the script. Pitt admitted in an interview with GQ, "when we got home at the end of the day and read the script, it said Scotty's character is 'chewing tobacco and spitting it on the back of the tank'. He was just doing as instructed in the script! So we were the knobs in the end..."

Eastwood, 40, also criticized LaBeouf’s acting process. “He’s a very method [actor],” he explained. LaBeouf purposely mutilated himself to commit to the part on that set. Fellow Fury co-star Logan Lerman explained in 2014, “He did go to a dentist and asked them to pull his tooth out, but yeah, what an odd request.”

LaBeouf also cut up his own face. Lerman said, "We were in make-up, and they were putting cuts on Shia… Shia was like, 'No, it doesn't look real.' Then he walks out into the hallway, and says, 'Hey man, wanna see something fun? Check this out...' And he takes out a knife and cuts his face. And for the whole movie he kept opening these cuts on his face.”

Eastwood told Shepard, “I remember thinking, ‘Okay, this guy’s crazy. I’m just going to keep clear from this guy because I don’t really play this game.’ You go and do that, but there’s plenty of ways to do a performance in a movie and be professional also, right?”

Fury, which was directed by David Ayer, also starred Michael Peña, Lerman, Jon Bernthal, and Pitt. Ayer’s Fury was rough on the whole cast, however, so it's no wonder that tensions boiled over.

Bernthal, who just struck gold on Spider-Man: Brand New Day and The Odyssey this past month, explained in the 2014 interview, "They were successful in getting every one of us to break down." He admitted, “When you have a group of people who have cracked psychologically, it's amazing where you can go…I'm not sure I'm proud of some of those things."

LaBeouf has had other criticisms about his behavior over the years aside from Eastwood’s claim.

The Megalopolis actor was arrested in 2014, 2017, 2020, and 2026. Some of the charges were dropped, while the actor was sentenced to probation, forced to pay fines, and ordered to go into therapy and rehab for the other charges.

Rumors that LaBeouf knocked Lawless co-star Tom Hardy out also circulated in 2012.

LaBeouf was sued by his ex-girlfriend FKA Twigs for assault, battery, and emotional distress. The suit included accounts of other abuse allegations of a previous ex as well. LaBeouf admitted that he had been “abusive” and settled out of court.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Nascimento's death was announced by the official UFC X/Twitter account.

This morning, Monday, August 3rd, our beloved flyweight fighter, Allan Nascimento, was found unresponsive after suffering an apparent heart attack in his sleep. Despite the efforts of the responding medical team, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Our thoughts and deepest… pic.twitter.com/vlaBaBOyJr

— UFC (@ufc) August 3, 2026

An apparent cause of death has been revealed

According to the UFC statement, Nascimento, "our beloved flyweight fighter," was discovered "unresponsive after suffering an apparent heart attack in his sleep."

"Despite the efforts of the responding medical team, he was pronounced deceased at the scene," the statement reads. "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Allan's family, friends, teammates, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Tributes pour in

In the first hour since UFC shared the sad news, many have paid homage to Nascimento on social media.

"Terrible news about Allan Nascimento. Far too young. He was a blast to watch," said UFC podcaster and host Ryan Clifford.

"Rest in peace, Allan Nascimento. We send our thoughts and prayers to Allan’s friends, family, and teammates during this time," added the official UFC Paramount X/Twitter account.

"Omg this is so extremely sad Allan Nascimento just fought June 20th He was such a warrior," said Malik Wright of The Wrightway Sports Network.

"I met him in Abu Dhabi for Charles fight vs Islam. This is absolutely horrible. He was such a nice guy," a fan chimed in.

"Wow. 34-years-old. RIP Puro Osso," another commenter added.

Remembering Allan Nascimento

Nascimento, who went by the nickname "Puro Osso," which means "Pure Bone" in Portuguese, finished his career with a 22-7-0 overall record. The 5-foot-8, 126-pound competitor's last fight was a loss to Mitch Raposo by split decision at UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Horiguchi 2 in June.

Prior to that, Nascimento had won four matchups in a row since a loss to Tagir Ulanbekov in his UFC debut at UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira on Oct. 30, 2021.

The Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil native began his professional fighting career with a win over Thiago Silva in 2011. Nascimento won his first seven fights, six times by submission.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Revealed today, the heavily teased Hennessey Blackbird is a naturally aspirated, manual-transmission touring hypercar built in Sealy, Texas, and named after the Lockheed SR-71 spy plane. The aerospace theme isn't just marketing fluff, either; the car's chin line, its active vertical stabilizers (which pop up automatically at exactly 71 mph, tilt to ±71 degrees, and can be triggered manually too), and even its diamond-shaped quad exhaust borrowing from the Bell X-1's design all trace back to real aircraft. John Hennessey called it "the beginning of a new book" for the company, and it's easy to see why: no turbos, no hybrid assist, no touchscreens anywhere in the cabin. 

Special limited-run cars taking inspiration from jets is not new; the ultra-rare Lamborghini Reventón is another example which took heavy inspiration from the F-22 Raptor fighter jet. 

What's Actually Under the Skin

Power comes from an all-new 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8, co-developed with Ilmor, targeting 800–850 hp and a screaming 9,000+ rpm redline. Hennessey says that's enough for 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds and a 220 mph top speed, routed through a six-speed gated manual to the rear wheels only, no AWD option, no auto-only cop-out. The whole thing sits on a bespoke full-carbon tub with a target weight under 3,000 lbs, riding on adaptive suspension and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s.

Inside, it's refreshingly old-school: a big analog tachometer as the centerpiece, a physical ignition key, and phone-based CarPlay/Android Auto instead of a built-in screen. Where it differs from most other limited-run hypercars is that Blackbird is meant to actually go places. Hennessey says it's engineered for 800+ miles in a day, with room for two carry-on bags, extra cabin storage, and gullwing doors for easier entry. Only 71 examples will be built, priced from $2.5 million before taxes, with deliveries starting in 2029-2030.

Interestingly, it follows a similar basic recipe to Gordon Murray's T.50: a gated manual, an obsession with lightness, and a high-revving naturally aspirated engine, all in service of driving feel over chasing numbers. The T.50 leans on a featherweight 3.9-liter Cosworth V12 making 654 hp but revving all the way to 12,100 rpm, mated with a six-speed manual and a dry weight of just 997 kg (about 2,198 lbs), considerably lighter than Blackbird's sub-3,000-lb target. That lightness gets the T.50 to 60 mph in roughly 2.8-2.9 seconds, and on to about 226 mph; numbers Blackbird is chasing with nearly 200 more horsepower instead of less mass could be quicker and faster than the T.50.

Where the two diverge is what they're for. The T.50 is built almost entirely around driving purity and a center-seat driving position, with minimal luggage space and no real touring pretense. Blackbird, by contrast, is explicitly chasing 800-mile road-trip days, cup holders, and real cargo room, a manual, screen-free hypercar built to be lived with, not just tracked. 

View the 23 images of this gallery on the original article

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Gear section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

In the aftermath of a massive opening weekend for the new film, Sony CEO Tom Rothman has addressed Holland's future as the masked webslinger.

Holland Reveals 'Succession Plan'

Over the past few weeks, Holland has opened up a little bit about his future as Spider-Man, revealing that he wants to be there to mentor the next Spider-Man actor in a similar way that Robert Downey Jr., who played Tony Stark and Iron Man in the MCU, was there to mentor him.

Holland has also expressed a desire to bring Mile Morales into the MCU. Now, during an interview on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Holland has revealed that a succession plan is already taking shape behind the scenes.

“There’s a whole plan that we have been working on for, I would say, since we finished ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home,'” Holland said on the podcast, revealing succession plans have been in the works for five years. “It’s laid out. It’s gonna change for sure, but I have a really clear vision to the passing on of the baton, and I think it’s really exciting.”

Rothman Breaks His Silence

In the aftermath of the very successful Spider-Man: Brand New Day release, Rothman has now addressed Holland's comments and his future as Spider-Man.

Rothman was asked directly about the plans for a follow-up film, but he didn't have much to share, comparing the situation to a coach who had just won the Super Bowl.

"I love these questions. It’s like when a coach wins the Super Bowl and he goes to the press conference and they say to him, 'Are you going to win it next year?' The honest truth is we don’t know at this point. This has been the focus of our studio for almost two years. I can tell you this: I certainly, certainly hope. I heard Tom say at some point that he wanted to continue, and we would love it if he did," Rothman told Variety.

That said, Rothman did confirm that there is still a world where Holland returns as Spider-Man for a fifth Spider-Man film, even if there is not one in the works just yet.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Brooklyn native made his feature film debut in the 1982 action-comedy 48 Hrs. alongside Nick Nolte. By 1984, Murphy had established his status as a Hollywood A-lister with the massive box office hit Beverly Hills Cop.

In the '90s, Murphy created iconic on-screen characters in comedies such as The Nutty Professor and Bowfinger. He carried over his box-office dominance into the 2000s in DreamWorks' Shrek and Shrek 2, voicing the hilarious animated character Donkey.

What followed, though, was a string of critically panned comedies that proved to be commercial disappointments. Norbit in 2007 and Meet Dave in 2008 both drew widespread negative reviews.

However, A Thousand Words in 2012 stands out as one of the biggest disappointments of Murphy's career. He portrayed Jack McCall, a fast-talking literary agent whose life is suddenly dictated by a magical tree that appeared in his backyard.

The critics slammed the film. It earned a shocking 0% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it Murphy's lowest-rated picture.

"Dated jokes (A Thousand Words was shot in 2008) and removing Eddie Murphy's voice — his greatest comedic asset — dooms this painful mess from the start," the Critics' Consensus read.

Murphy was nominated for a Razzie or a Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Actor in A Thousand Words. He previously won that same award for his performance in Norbit.

How A Thousand Words Derailed Eddie Murphy's Career

A Thousand Words was a massive commercial disappointment. With a $40 million budget, the film grossed $22 million worldwide.

For Murphy, the movie's negative reception reinforced a string of box-office and critical letdowns. It turned out to be Murphy's last film before he went on a self-imposed multi-year hiatus.

“I was making these sh**** movies,” Murphy said in a 2021 interview. “I was like, ‘This sh** ain’t fun. They’re giving me Razzies. Motherf****** gave me the 'worst actor ever' Razzie. It was like, ‘Maybe it’s time to take a break.’”

In 2019, seven years after A Thousand Words bombed at the theaters, Murphy returned to the small screen. He came back to his roots, returning to Saturday Night Live for the first time in 35 years.

He marked his comeback to the big screen with the biographical comedy Dolemite Is My Name that same year, earning critical acclaim. This was followed by a string of successful streaming sequels, further establishing his triumphant return to the mainstream.

A Thousand Words marked a low point in Murphy's career, but it also became a turning point that ultimately led to one of Hollywood's most successful comebacks.

Related: 1974 Classic, Which Was Banned in 11 Countries, Considered the 'Best Horror Movie of All Time'

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Unlike many traditional strength training exercises, sled work is almost entirely concentric, meaning your muscles generate force without the eccentric phase that typically causes the most muscle soreness. As a result, sled training promotes blood flow to the knee and can be performed more frequently than many other lower-body exercises. It's also quite easy to adjust the intensity by simply changing the weight on the sled or your walking speed.

Backward sled drags put constant tension on the quadriceps, strengthening the muscles that support and stabilize the knee joint. They also engage the glutes and hamstrings, rebuilding strength in muscles that often become weak and inactive after spending hours sitting at a desk all day.

"If you don’t have access to a sled or you’re unsteady on your feet and have bad balance, you can turn around on a treadmill while it’s off and walk backwards," Lunceford says. "Use your feet to push the belt, and you’re simulating what it’s like to have a weighted sled. You can hold the sides of the treadmill if you need to."

Related: HYROX Coach Shares an Efficient Sled Pull Technique That Can Cut Minutes Off Your Race Time

How to Do Backward Sled Drags

1. Load a sled with weight. Grab the handles or straps, or set up belt around waist, and stand facing away from the sled with your torso upright.
2. Walk backward with controlled steps, pushing through your feet and keeping a slight bend in your knees.
3. Stay tall with your chest up and shoulders back as you continue stepping backward until you complete the desired distance.

Related: This 5 Round Run and Row Routine Is Hands Down the Best Way for Men Over 50 to Train for Hyrox Without Getting Hurt

Experts

• Garrett Lunceford, NASM-CPT

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Fitness section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The latest outlook from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center gives El Niño an 81 percent chance of becoming “very strong” from October through December. That development would have immediate implications for the remainder of hurricane season, particularly as the Atlantic enters its busiest months.

Related: NOAA Raises Odds of Historic El Niño as Dangerous Weather Threat Grows Across the U.S.

NOAA Expects Fewer Atlantic Hurricanes

El Niño typically increases vertical wind shear over the Atlantic Ocean. Those stronger upper-level winds can disrupt thunderstorms and make it harder for tropical systems to organize into hurricanes, according to NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory.

That effect is one reason NOAA’s 2026 Atlantic hurricane outlook favors a below-normal season. The agency gives that outcome a 55 percent probability, compared with a 35 percent chance of near-normal activity and a 10 percent chance of an above-normal season.

Forecasters expect eight to 14 named storms, including three to six hurricanes and one to three major hurricanes. Those projections fall below the 1991–2020 averages of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.

Most Atlantic activity typically occurs during August, September, and October. NOAA researchers say El Niño’s influence on the basin also tends to become more apparent during the latter part of hurricane season.

Related: The Deadliest Weather Threat in America Isn’t a Hurricane or Tornado

Pacific Hurricane Activity Could Increase

El Niño often has the opposite effect in the eastern and central Pacific, where warmer water and more favorable atmospheric conditions can support tropical development.

NOAA’s eastern Pacific outlook gives the region a 70 percent chance of an above-normal season. Forecasters predict 15 to 22 named storms, nine to 14 hurricanes, and five to nine major hurricanes.

The central Pacific, which includes waters surrounding Hawaii, could also experience above-normal activity. NOAA projects five to 13 tropical cyclones of at least tropical-depression strength, compared with an average of 4.4 per season.

A Below-Normal Season Can Still Be Dangerous

Seasonal outlooks estimate the amount of overall activity. They do not predict whether a hurricane will make landfall or which communities could be affected.

NOAA emphasizes that even a quiet season can produce a destructive storm. Coastal residents and late-summer travelers should continue monitoring local forecasts and review emergency plans, insurance coverage, supplies, and cancellation policies.

Next: Federal Weather Forecast Reveals a Warm Fall Could Give Way to a ‘Very Strong’ El Niño Winter

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

All that would change with Stagecoach, director John Ford's Western starring Wayne and Claire Trevor. The film, which documents a group of stagecoach travelers on their way to New Mexico, became one of the most influential movies of all time and launched Wayne's career into a new stratosphere.

Stagecoach is one of the best Westerns ever

In 1995, the United States Library of Congress selected the film for its National Film Registry due to being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant." Stagecoach also routinely appears on rankings lists of the top Western films of all time.

Recently, Collider slotted Stagecoach at No. 4 on its ranking of the 20 Greatest Western Movie Masterpieces of All Time, trailing only Unforgiven, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and The Searchers.

"When Stagecoach hit theaters, it did something that no other Western was able to do: It elevated the material to A-list status after the genre had settled for too long in the B-picture range," wrote Collider's Michael John Petty. "Although both director John Ford and rising star John Wayne had made pictures before, Stagecoach singlehandedly launched their careers almost overnight, establishing the powerhouse collaboration that would guide the genre for decades to come. That's no small feat."

Meanwhile, Stagecoach came in at No. 7 on IndieWire's 2024 list of The 100 Greatest Westerns of All Time, and at No. 12 on Paste's 2025 ranking of the same topic.

"The Duke" was born

Wayne didn't earn any major award nominations for his role as Henry, "the Ringo Kid," but it cemented him as a leading man. In a letter written by cast member Louise Platt, the director Ford is quoted as saying Wayne will "be the biggest star ever because he is the perfect 'everyman.'"

Wayne starred in a number of prominent Westerns and war movies during the 1940s, including Fort Apache, 3 Godfathers and Red River. He became an even bigger star in the 1950s, a decade in which he topped Quigley's annual Box-Office Champions list three times while finishing third three times and second twice.

In the 1960s, Wayne continued his run of Western hits, which included 1962's The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962), El Dorado (1966), and True Grit (1969). Wayne won his only Oscar for the last film on that list, taking home Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of Marshal Reuben J. "Rooster" Cogburn.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

"Wearing a weighted vest while cycling doesn't carry additional benefit unless the rider is working on a hill or incline," says Amira Lamb, NASM-CPT, founder of Holistic Hottie and creator of the Run Your Plate™ system. "Adding something like a weighted vest can be biomechanically disadvantageous if someone suffers from back issues."

Think about the position you assume while cycling. You’re already hunched forward, and adding a weighted vest or backpack can place even more stress on the spine. The extra load may be enough to throw off your center of balance, potentially making falls more dangerous during outdoor cycling. Overall, adding weight can turn what's usually promoted as a low-impact form of exercise into quite the opposite, placing unnecessary pressure on your body.

Related: Short on Time? Trainers Swear by This 3-Move Weighted Vest Workout Routine That Protects Muscle Mass at Home

There are alternate ways to increase the challenge that may be more beneficial for most people, especially on a bike, which already gives you plenty of ways to adjust intensity and workload. For example, on a stationary bike, you can manually increase resistance while working to maintain or build your pedaling speed. If you’re cycling outdoors, finding hills and climbing at a higher effort provides an easy way to build strength and stamina.

For experienced cyclists who wants to increase their workload without training for longer periods of time, a weighted vest may help create a progressive overload stimulus, Lamb says. However, it’s not something beginners should jump into. A well-established cycling routine minus the weighted vest should be first priority. Once a strong foundation is built, using a weighted vest on rides one to three times per week may be a way to gradually increase training demands.

"There should be an obvious push, but there shouldn't be any pain. Depending on size of the individual, incline, and duration of training, someone might want to start with anywhere from five to 10 pounds," Lamb says. "Common mistakes would be ignoring pain—you want to train to discomfort, not pain. Another mistake is going too heavy too soon. Progressive resistance is the way to go."

Related: The Exact Fitness and Nutrition Strategy a 600-Pound Gamer Used to Lose 400 Pounds in Just 17 Months

Experts

• Amira Lamb, NASM-CPT, founder of Holistic Hottie and creator of the Run Your Plate™ system

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Fitness section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

While some of Southwest's changes have been successful and helped the airline accomplish its goals, one of these changes did not go over well with customers, and Southwest is backing down as a result.

Southwest’s ‘Customer of Size’ Policy

For years, Southwest has had a policy for plus-size travelers known as the Customer of Size policy. It is designed to provide additional accommodations for passengers who may require more than one seat during their flight.

Previously, customers covered under the policy had two options: they could purchase an additional seat in advance with the possibility of receiving a refund later if the flight was not full, or they could ask for a complimentary extra seat upon arriving at the airport.

That approach changed in January, when Southwest updated the policy to require all plus-size customers who need an additional seat to purchase it before traveling and “pay any applicable seat fee.”

“To ensure space, we are communicating to Customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking,” the airline said in a statement.

Although travelers could still request a refund after completing their trip, eligibility would now be based on whether both seats were purchased within the same fare class.

Customers Weren't Happy

Following the policy update, many customers voiced their frustration, with one travel expert cautioning that the changes could have unintended consequences for everyone involved, including fellow passengers and Southwest employees.

Jason Vaughn, a travel advisor who operates Fat Tested Travel — a travel website focused on plus-size travelers — said the previous policy gave larger passengers little reason not to reserve an extra seat ahead of time since they could receive a refund if the additional seat ultimately was not needed.

With that incentive now gone, he argued, more plus-size travelers may choose to book only one seat and hope it provides enough room.

“I think it’s going to make the flying experience worse for everybody,” he said via the Associated Press.

As a result, the change could create a less comfortable experience for passengers seated nearby while also adding logistical complications for flight attendants and gate agents.

Southwest Reverses Course

Following the customer outrage, Southwest has decided to reverse course and will no longer require plus-size passengers to purchase an extra seat in advance.

Beginning last week, Southwest no longer requires plus-size passengers to purchase an extra seat in advance, allowing airport agents to offer an additional seat at no extra cost when space is available.

"On flights where adjacent seats are available, our agents at the airport are empowered to provide an additional seat at no extra cost to Customers who require one," the airline said in a statement via ABC News. "If another seat is not available, we will work to accommodate the Customer on a later flight."

Southwest said in a statement that this change comes after the airline's extensive review and that it will continue refining its process "to create a more consistent and seamless travel experience for customers who require an additional seat."

"We continue to encourage Customers who need an additional seat to book it in advance to help alleviate any last-minute inconvenience at the airport," the statement added.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Yet the horrifying incident at an Arizona gas station this month showed that the danger remains very real.

Body camera footage released by authorities captured a shocking sequence of events. As an officer fired a Taser at a man standing beside fuel pumps, the electrical discharge appeared to ignite gasoline vapors. Within an instant, the man's body erupted in flames, creating a terrifying scene that has reignited questions about police training and the continued use of Tasers around flammable substances.

The disturbing video has spread widely online, but beyond the graphic images lies a larger question. If experts have warned about this hazard for years, why do these incidents continue to happen?

The Science Behind a Taser Fire

A common misconception is that liquid gasoline itself catches fire easily. In reality, the greatest danger comes from gasoline vapor.

Gasoline constantly evaporates, especially during fueling or when fuel has spilled onto clothing or pavement. Those invisible vapors mix with oxygen in the surrounding air. If the concentration falls within a specific flammable range, only a small ignition source is needed to trigger combustion.

That ignition source can come from something as small as static electricity. It can also come from the electrical arc produced when a Taser fires.

Although a Taser delivers electricity in short pulses intended to disrupt muscle control rather than burn tissue, the weapon creates thousands of volts during discharge to push current through clothing and skin. The electrical probes and connecting wires can generate sparks, particularly when they strike metal objects or encounter gaps between the probes and the target.

Researchers have repeatedly demonstrated that these arcs possess enough energy to ignite flammable vapors under certain conditions. Fuel does not need to be pouring across the ground. Even gasoline-soaked clothing or a cloud of vapor near a pump can create the right environment for ignition.

That scientific understanding is why many law enforcement training manuals specifically caution officers against deploying Tasers around gasoline, propane, alcohol-based solvents, or other combustible materials.

The Arizona Incident That Sparked New Questions

The Arizona encounter unfolded at a gas station where officers confronted a man near active fuel pumps.

According to authorities, police attempted to take the individual into custody before an officer deployed a Taser. Almost immediately after the electrical discharge, flames engulfed the man, stunning officers and witnesses alike.

Body camera footage shows officers rushing to extinguish the fire while calling for emergency medical assistance. The victim suffered severe burns and required hospitalization.

Investigators have not suggested that the Taser itself malfunctioned. Instead, the available evidence points toward ignition of flammable gasoline vapors that were present near the pumps or on the man's clothing.

For fire investigators, the sequence is tragically familiar. The electrical discharge does not create the fuel. It merely provides the spark needed to ignite vapors that are already waiting for an ignition source.

Because gasoline vapor is invisible, officers may not appreciate the danger during a rapidly evolving confrontation. A location that appears safe can actually contain an explosive mixture of fuel and air.

That reality makes gas stations especially hazardous environments for any device capable of producing sparks.

Scientists and Police Trainers Have Warned About This for Years

This is not the first documented case.

Over the past two decades, multiple lawsuits and forensic investigations have examined fires that erupted after Taser deployments involving gasoline, paint thinner, alcohol-based products, or other flammable liquids.

Scientific testing has repeatedly confirmed that conducted electrical weapons can ignite volatile vapors under specific circumstances. Those findings prompted many police agencies to revise training materials and emphasize environmental awareness before officers deploy a Taser.

Manufacturers have also acknowledged the ignition risk in product warnings, advising officers to avoid using the devices near known flammable substances whenever possible.

Safety experts note that the probability of ignition remains relatively low compared with the millions of Taser deployments worldwide. Still, low probability does not mean impossible. When the necessary conditions align, the consequences can be catastrophic.

The challenge is that officers often have only seconds to assess a volatile situation. Stress, movement, and incomplete information can make it difficult to recognize invisible hazards such as gasoline vapor.

Even so, critics argue that environments like gas stations deserve heightened caution precisely because the fire risk has been so well documented.

Why Does This Keep Happening?

The Arizona case has reignited debate over whether existing police training sufficiently accounts for environmental hazards before officers use conducted electrical weapons.

Many departments already teach officers to evaluate surroundings before deploying force. Critics contend that such guidance can lose priority during tense confrontations where gaining immediate control of a suspect becomes the overriding objective.

Others point to inconsistencies in training between agencies. Some departments place significant emphasis on ignition hazards, while others devote comparatively little time to the issue.

Experts also note that gasoline stations present unique challenges. Fuel vapors cannot always be seen or smelled, especially outdoors where wind disperses them unevenly. An officer may believe the risk is minimal while an explosive concentration of vapor exists only a few feet away.

Advocates for police reform argue that incidents like the Arizona fire should prompt renewed review of Taser policies, scenario-based training, and alternatives for encounters taking place near obvious ignition hazards.

For scientists, however, the underlying explanation has never been much of a mystery.

Electric arcs ignite flammable vapors. Gasoline produces those vapors continuously. Tasers generate electrical discharges capable of creating sparks. Put those elements together in the same place and the possibility of fire has always existed.

That scientific reality has been understood for years. The difficult question facing law enforcement isn’t whether the danger is real but whether enough is being done to prevent the next devastating fire before another split-second decision produces another explosive outcome.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Key Facts at a Glance

Where Can You Buy the Skechers Slip-ins Arch Fit D'Lites 330?

Skechers lists the Arch Fit D'Lites 330 - Modern Retro Jogger for $110 in five versatile colorways. Men's sizing extends through 14, which matters when larger sizes are often ignored.

The online-exclusive pre-orders are expected to ship in November 2026, but pre-orders are currently closed. Shoppers can register for availability updates. Skechers Plus members can also save 15% on eligible purchases with code SAVE15, though the promotion may expire before this model returns.

What Makes the Skechers Slip-ins Arch Fit D'Lites 330 Stand Out?

The D'Lites 330 combines chunky early-2000s runner style with convenience dads can appreciate. Hands Free Slip-ins construction allows easy entry, while the Heel Pillow helps keep the foot secure.

A removable Arch Fit insole provides podiatrist-certified support developed using 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans. The nylon-mesh upper, synthetic overlays, cushioned midsole, and Goodyear rubber outsole complete a practical everyday build. White/Black is the cleanest option, but Off White/Green delivers the strongest retro look.

Why Do Skechers Slip-ins Matter?

Slip-ins became important to me during back-injury recovery. Bending down was painful, and tying traditional sneakers turned getting dressed into another obstacle. Skechers gave me an easier way to move independently without settling for an uncomfortable shoe.

That usefulness extends beyond injuries. Busy parents, travelers, older adults, and anyone tired of wrestling with laces can benefit. The D'Lites shape also connects with millennials who remember chunky Y2K runners. It delivers dad-shoe practicality without looking like you surrendered your sneaker rotation.

Should You Buy Skechers Slip-ins?

Yes. The Arch Fit D'Lites 330 belongs in the cool-dad rotation because it offers easy entry, real support, and enough style for errands or casual meetings. Larger sizing makes it even more appealing.

For more personality, the $90 Skechers Slip-ins Britto: UNO - Britto Landscape reaches size 14 and covers a white upper with colorful Romero Britto details. It looks like the classy little brother of the Air Jordan 7 'Miro.' I ordered a pair and cannot wait to get it in hand. The style is currently excluded from promotions and unavailable for pre-order, so use Skechers' availability alerts instead of chasing inflated prices.

Related: New Balance ABZORB 1890 Chunky Cushioning, Lifestyle Colors, All-Day Wearability — Where to Buy

Related: Nike ACG Zegama Hike Earth-Tone Colorways, ZoomX Cushioning, Vibram Traction — Price & Where to Buy

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Style section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a runner. At least, not anymore. I spent much of my childhood running pretty long distances, and at 5'8" and mostly legs, it was like I was made for it. But once I found lifting in college, I all but gave up running entirely, trading the open road for chalk-covered hands and dimly lit basement gyms. Sun? Fresh air? Never heard of them.

But as run clubs started popping up everywhere and I kept seeing groups of friends cruising through the streets of Nashville in their hydration vests and the latest kicks, I couldn't help but catch a rare case of FOMO. So, in an effort to build a community outside of the 50-year-old bodybuilders at my gym, I decided now was as good a time as any to start running again.

My first order of business? Try all the latest and greatest "beginner" running shoes that offered soft underfoot padding, a generous amount of cushioning (because what shoe doesn't these days?), and some sort of rocker technology to help propel my tired, significantly older legs along. Enter On’s Cloudmonster 3 Hyper. Released in April, it’s built for daily training, tempo work, progression runs, and even race day for anyone who wants high performance without a stiff carbon plate underfoot.

On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper Specs

Sitting on a massive 45mm heel stack, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is maximum cushioning in every sense of the word. On designed them as a jack-of-all-trades daily trainer, cushioned enough to keep my feet from revolting during long efforts, yet nimble enough that they didn't feel like overkill on quick recovery runs. Under the hood, they pack a dual-density midsole with a firmer CloudTec base for stability, topped off with a layer of Helion HF "super foam."

While they felt a bit firmer underfoot than some of the squishy, pillow-like trainers on the market, they repaid me with a lightweight, responsive bounce the second I put power into them. But the real magic for me was the aggressive rocker. You can literally feel the shoe tipping you forward onto your toes, taking the pressure off my calves and doing half the heavy lifting for my out-of-shape legs. While they worked fine for my short runs on the hills of Nashville, this roll-through feeling made it clear these were built for chewing up big training miles, giving me just enough pop when I wanted to pick up the pace without punishing my body when I didn't.

Key Product Features

• Price: $220
• Weight: 9.3 oz (Men's Size 9)
• Stack Height: 37.5mm heel / 31.5mm forefoot
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
• Best For: Daily training, tempo efforts, long runs, and non-plated recovery miles

$220 at On

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Fitness section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The most productive span of Clowney's career was in Houston, where he spent his first five years in the league. Since then, the former University of South Carolina standout has bounced around to Seattle, Tennessee, Cleveland, Baltimore, Carolina, and, most recently, Dallas. While Clowney played 13 of 17 games last season, the 33-year-old started only 6 games, the lowest number since his rookie year. He said this week he believes he has more left in the tank.

With this in-state move, Clowney joins the ranks of a plethora of aging stars in the twilight of their career who have chosen appealing destinations for one last shot at a championship. The Texans have never won a Super Bowl, much less advanced to the conference championship round, but they have been close a handful of times.

Clowney can bring a veteran presence to an already formidable defense. The pass rush, led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, was already stacked before the 6-foot-5, 266-pound Clowney returned to town. The back end of the defense, headlined by shutdown corner Derek Stingley Jr. and bolstered by Kamari Lassiter and Calen Bullock, offers little opportunity for the opposition to break out for big gains.

In Houston, Clowney has a realistic shot at winning it all. Taking a pay cut to claim his first Super Bowl ring could wind up being a heroic move if he can play an integral part in a deep postseason run for the team that drafted him.

If that happens, the last thing on Clowney's mind will be the money he gave up to come back home.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

De Niro has starred in some of the best movies we have ever seen, earning two Academy Awards along the way. This includes classics such as The Godfather Part II (1974), Taxi Driver (1976), Raging Bull (1980) and Goodfellas (1990).

However, while De Niro has made many great movies, he also has some duds, and recently, the 2010 film Little Fockers was named the "worst Robert De Niro movie" of all time by Collider.

Little Fockers is the third film in the Meet the Parents comedy series and a direct sequel to Meet the Fockers (2004). The movie follows Greg Focker (Ben Stiller) as he tries to prove himself to his former CIA father-in-law, Jack Byrnes (Robert De Niro), during his twins' fifth birthday party.

With a budget of $100 million, Little Fockers turned out to be a big success at the box office, making just over $148 million domestically and $310 million worldwide.

While Little Fockers was a success, it did not get great reviews from critics. In fact, Rotten Tomatoes gave the movie a 10% Tomatometer score, while IMDb gave it a 5.5/10.

And Collider's Jeremy Urquhart noted that it is De Niro's worst movie of all time because "it’s a strange, unwieldy, and honestly kind of sad comedy, and it doesn’t even have the courtesy to function like an anti-comedy."

Meet the Fockers was also listed amongst De Niro's worst movies, coming in at the No. 10 spot. Freelancers (2012) and The War with Grandpa (2020) round out the worst three on the list.

Related: 34 Years Ago Today: Classic Bruce Willis Film, Named Among His ‘Greatest Roles,’ Was Released

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

This week, Delta announced that it was ending all flights to one Caribbean destination beginning next month with no plans to replace it.

Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a Caribbean island nation known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic volcanic peaks. The islands attract visitors through their natural beauty, water sports, and laid-back island culture.

Over the years, tourism has become vital to the nation's economy, replacing bananas as the primary revenue source. The country's main draws include snorkeling and diving along coral reefs, hiking to waterfalls, and sailing between islands.

Air service from the United States is critical to sustaining the tourism industry. Direct and connecting flights from major U.S. hubs ensure steady visitor flow throughout the year.

Delta Ends Flights to Saint Vincent

On Monday, Delta confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that it was ending all flights to Saint Vincent, with the service officially ending next month.

“The final scheduled flight will operate on Sept. 5, 2026, and the route will not return as previously planned on Dec. 19, 2026. Customers with affected bookings will be contacted directly about alternate travel options, and Delta apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause,” Delta said in a statement to the outlet.

For customers who had flights to the island after Sept. 5, Delta told Channel 2 that it was actively working on rebooking those passengers.

The airline did not offer a specific explanation as to why it was canceling this route, saying only that it “routinely evaluates a variety of factors when making network decisions, including customer demand, seasonality, aircraft availability, operating costs and broader operational considerations.”

While the flights to Saint Vincent are coming to an end, Delta reminded passengers that it still has flights to other Caribbean destinations, including Nassau, Punta Cana, Curaçao and Grenada.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Coby Bryant limping off after a 1 on 1 vs Kmet. Just slammed his helmet down. Holding his left leg. Laying down now.

— Greg Braggs Jr. (@GBraggsJr23) August 3, 2026

He was carted off the field after trainers looked at him.

Coby Bryant has left practice on a cart after landing awkwardly. Was grabbing his left knee / leg.

— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) August 3, 2026

Anytime a player is carted off a field, there is a worry about a long-term or season-ending injury. Fortunately for Bryant and the Bears, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has reported that the worst-case scenario was avoided. 

Related: New Orleans Saints’ Receiver Retires at 24

“Bears safety Coby Bryant is expected to be sidelined 8-10 weeks due to a hyperextended knee, bone bruise and small fracture that he suffered at today’s practice, per sources. No surgery is expected to be needed.”

While 8-10 weeks is still a significant chunk of time, it is better that it happened at the beginning of training camp rather than during the regular season. The timetable presented in Schefter’s report puts Bryant back on the field around the middle of October. 

Bryant signed a three-year, $40 million deal this offseason with Chicago. The deal came after a solid season in which he recorded 66 tackles and 4 interceptions. He was a big part of the Seahawks’ championship push and recorded 10 tackles in the playoffs, including 4 in Seattle’s Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots. 

Bryant was a fourth-round pick by Seattle in 2022 out of Cincinnati as a cornerback. The 2022 and 2023 seasons saw him bounce between the field and the bench. In 2024, he transitioned to Safety, backing up Rayshawn Jenkins. That season Jenkins went down with a hand injury that kept him out for the remainder of the season. Bryant filled in admirably, recording 73 tackles and 3 interceptions. He assumed the starting role heading into the 2025 season. 

Now it will be up to Cam Lewis and rookie Dillion Thieneman to fill in until Bryant is healthy, with Elijah Hicks already missing time after being placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The U.S. State Department recently updated its "Level 2" designation for Spain, giving the country an overall designation of "exercise increased caution." One area, the Ceuta territory, has been given a "reconsider travel" designation due to unrest.

The State Department's travel advisory states that "unpredictable and dangerous security situations" are possible, and that the Spanish military, National Police and Guardia Civil have been deployed to manage the situation.

"Americans should reconsider travel to the area given the risks posed to their safety and security," the department warns.

How Travelers Can Stay Safe Throughout Spain

Travelers who head to Spain are instructed to avoid demonstrations and large crowds, be aware of their surroundings, to follow the instructions of local authorities and to check local media for events that happen spontaneously.

Terrorism has also been listed by the State Department in its travel advisory for Spain. The advisory notes that attacks can happen with little to no warning, and that major events, transportation centers, markets and parks are among typical targets.

The update to the travel advisory comes as wildfires continue to affect parts of both Spain and France.

Fires in major regions like Madrid and Avila have been stabilized and a national emergency has ended, but fires are still being fought in Zamora, Leon and Castellon, burning through several acres of agricultural land.

At the peak of the wildfires, nearly 100,000 people evacuated their homes as authorities assessed and tried to control the situation.

Weather Concerns and Future Events in Spain

Experts say that the heatwaves experienced throughout Europe this summer are largely to blame for the wildfires, as unseasonably hot temperatures have affected several nations.

The Copernicus Climate Change Service says that heat waves in May and June produced average temperatures that were around 10 degrees Celsius (or 18 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than the norm.

Data from Reuters shows that temperatures in Spain peaked at around 18.3 degrees Fahrenheit ahead of its typical norm in late June.

Several music festivals, art events and more are scheduled to take place throughout the rest of the year, bringing travelers in from all over the world. These include the Aquasella and Time Warp music festivals, the Alfaralmería pottery and ceramics fair, and the start of the domestic soccer season for massive, globally relevant teams like Real Madrid and Barcelona.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Tom Holland's take on the iconic character has long been teased to potentially cross over into the studio's (somewhat) separate Sony Spider-Man Universe, which features films like Madame Web (2024), Morbius (2022), Kraven the Hunter (2024), and the Venom trilogy (2018-2024). However, according to a recent statement from Sony Pictures Chairman Tom Rothman following the recent release of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, these appear to have been officially scrapped.

Sony Pictures’ Chairman Said ‘Audiences Weren’t Satisfied’ With Their Spider-Man Spin-off Direction

The closest the Sony Spider-Man Universe got to meeting Holland's character, who stood firmly within the realm of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), was in a mid-credits scene in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), where Venom, played by Tom Hardy, made an appearance.

While the two didn't react directly, Hardy's character, Eddie Brock, is briefly transported to said universe before returning to his own respective one, leaving a small Venom symbiote behind. This scene followed a previously released mid-credits scene in Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021), where Brock finds himself in a hotel room, watching a TV report from J. Jonah Jameson about Spider-Man's identity being revealed as Peter Parker.

While Hardy previously expressed frustration, especially on behalf of his children, that he never got to share the screen with Holland, this seems to be as far as things will go for now, according to Rothman.

In an interview with Varietypublished on August 3, where Madame Web and Kraven the Hunter were labelled as "misfires," Rothman responded that "Ultimately, the audience wasn’t satisfied enough with them. Whether that’s a fair assessment of those movies, who knows."

"That’s howling into the wind. The audience is the boss, and they didn’t respond," he continued. "It’s as simple as that."

Later, Rothman was asked if the Sony Spider-Man Universe had a future, which was met with a pessimistic response. "Right now, we don’t know. We never looked at it as the 'Sony-Marvel Universe,'" Rothman responded.

"We looked at if there were worthwhile movies to make with other characters. At the moment, there are none in active development."

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Although "The Dragon in the Winter" is the lead-up to the finale, it takes big strides toward what's sure to be a climactic ending. It confirms that Sunfyre is not, in fact, dead — a twist that will prove a thorn in Queen Rhaenyra's side — and it sees the truth about Rhaena and Sheepstealer coming out. It also concludes with a major betrayal, one that could tilt the odds in Team Green's favor (and Fire & Blood fans knew it was coming). There's a lot to contend with, along with some bizarre dream stuff going on, and House of the Dragon will need to tackle most of it before Episode 8 comes to a close.

What Do Helaena's Latest Dreams Mean?

Helaena is what's known as a dreamer in the Song of Ice and Universe, meaning that she gets flashes of the future. House of the Dragon leans into that in Season 3. And Episode 7 brings us directly into her visions...though it doesn't offer an explanation for all of them. We see Helaena's baby being taken away immediately after childbirth, which is could be an ill omen for its health or cruelty on Rhaenyra's part.

We also get a glimpse of her riding Dreamfyre to torch people running toward them, which could be the Storming of the Dragonpit. It's also possible Rhaenyra will push Helaena to get involved in her conflict, using her child as leverage. And finally, there's a shot of darkness overtaking a happy future for Helaena and her children. That can't be good, but we'll have to see if the finale sheds further light on their fates.

Is Sheepstealer Actually Dead?

Rhaena and Sheepstealer are ambushed by Rhaenyra, Addam, and their dragons, and the end result isn't pretty. Rhaena is dragged back to King's Landing, and Sheepstealer is attacked by the other dragons after becoming reactive. It looks as though Caraxes kills him, but we don't actually see the wild dragon perish on-screen. He hobbles away, suggesting he could be severely injured. It feels too anticlimactic to kill Sheepstealer off like this, so we have to assume we'll see him again. Either way, the House of the Dragon Season 3 finale must give a definitive answer regarding his fate.

Where Does Alicent Go From Here?

Alicent makes it to Harrenhal in House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 7, and she does her best to complete Rhaenyra's mission. In fact, she successfully poisons Aemond — but Alys Rivers discovers him in time, meaning she'll probably save his life again. Alicent sneaks off, probably to make away in the night. We don't actually see her escape, and with her guard killed and Alys onto her, anything could happen. This particular story isn't in Fire & Blood, so even readers can't say where it's headed. The finale must confirm whether Alicent makes it away from her attempted filicide. If she doesn't, it'll be interesting to see how Aemond and Alys handle the betrayal.

What Will Aegon Do After His Reunion With Sunfyre?

In one of House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 7's most epic moments, Sunfyre returns just as Aegon is making his "last stand" against Rhaenyra's forces. Thanks to Sunfyre, it won't actually be the end of the character. It does raise questions about what he'll do next, though, especially now that he's declared his survival to the kingdom. We know from HBO's teaser for the finale that word gets around. So, will Aegon be persuaded to join Tyland Lannister and go to Lannisport? Or will the finale finally push him toward Dragonstone, where he ends up in George R.R. Martin's book?

How Will Ulf's Betrayal Unravel?

The revelation that Ulf is scheming with Lord Ormund Hightower is a big one, but not a total surprise. Rhaenyra and Daemon have been dismissive of him for much of Season 3, and Fire & Blood fans know that he ultimately turns on the Blacks. It'll be interesting to see how it unravels in House of the Dragon Season 3's finale, however, as there's no way someone like Ormund Hightower would truly allow him to become Lord of the Tides. They're both playing the game, and it's hard to say how Ulf will react if he realizes he's been deceived. There's also the question of where Hugh fits into all of this. Needless to say, tensions at Tumbleton are set to boil over in Season 3's final episode.

House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 8 airs on HBO at 9 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 9.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

At night one of WWE SummerSlam, The Bella Twins and Paige lost a six-woman tag match to Lainey Reid, Jacy Jayne and Fallon Henley. In a SummerSlam stunner, Nikki and Brie Bella subsequently attacked Paige and turned heel.

Unfortunately, Brie's upcoming run as a heel will be on hold.

On her Instagram account, the WWE Hall of Famer announced that she broke her scapula during the six-woman match and will be sidelined "for a bit."

View this post on Instagram

Brie and Nikki Bella announced their WWE departures in March 2023, two years after being enshrined in the WWE Hall of Fame. Their exits wouldn't last long, though, as Nikki and Brie returned at the 2025 and 2026 Royal Rumble events, respectively.

SummerSlam 2026 Featured the Returns of Two Injured Stars

Among the SummerSlam 2026 highlights, Kevin Owens and Randy Orton made their surprise returns after lengthy absences. Owens, who underwent neck fusion surgery in July 2025, defeated Finn Bálor, Sami Zayn and Gunther to become the No. 1 contender for the WWE Championship.

Orton had been sidelined since April with an ongoing back injury, but he returned to cost Cody Rhodes the WWE Championship in his match against CM Punk.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Those lofty goals aren't exclusive to the gridiron. The 6-foot-4 veteran out of Clemson is eyeing a career in fashion. He's got the looks, certainly. He also has the acumen. He's not one to follow trends. Higgins follows his gut. So far, his gut has served him well.

Express recently tapped Higgins and superstar Tinashe for its Fall 2026 campaign dubbed "Too Easy to Look This Good." As part of the Fall campaign, the duo also filmed a music video to celebrate "confidence, individuality, and the transformative power of personal style."

Men's Journal recently caught up with Higgins, who opened up about his fashion inspo, his recent wide receiver position ranking, and his experience on HBO's Hard Knocks.

Your style is uniquely you. Who or what are your biggest fashion influences?

Honestly, it's mostly just trial and error over the years. I grew up with a mix of Southern style and streetwear, and that's still in there somewhere. Now it’s less about following anybody in particular and more about what feels like me. I like pulling pieces from different places and putting my own spin on it rather than copying a specific look.

How do you decide what to wear on game day, and how much time goes into your fit check?

I usually start with one piece I really want to wear and build the rest of the look around it. Most of the time, I have a general idea before game day, so the actual fit check doesn’t take too long. I just make sure everything works together and feels like me. Express has some great pieces, especially the denim and elevated layers, that make it easy to build a look without doing too much.

Talk to me about your partnership with Express? Personally, I’ve never felt tall or lean enough to shop there, and it’s been years since I’ve shopped there. Is it time to go back?

I'd definitely say it’s time to take another look at Express. One of the things that stood out to me about the brand was the range of fits. As an athlete, I’m always paying attention to how clothes fit and feel, and I was impressed by how comfortable everything was. Pieces like the new Y2K Wash Jeans and 24/7 Comfort-Waist Chinos fit really well, were easy to move in and still looked put together. Those are the kinds of pieces I actually reach for.

The campaign was a lot of fun to shoot and gave me the chance to show a different side of myself. The whole set had the energy of a music video, so it felt like we were creating something more unique than just a traditional campaign. Working alongside Tinashe and all of the dancers brought a really good vibe to the shoot, and I liked that Express gave me the space to bring my own personality and style to it.

Who spends more time figuring out what to wear: you or Joe Burrow? 

I’d guess Joe, honestly. I feel like he’s got some help behind the scenes putting things together, so he’s probably got more time built into the process. I just go with my gut and figure it out myself.

How do you balance comfort, performance, and personal style while choosing gear for practice, travel, and game day?

It really depends on the moment. For practice, performance and comfort come first, but travel and game day give me more room to show my personal style. I like to keep things simple and build a look around one or two pieces that stand out. That approach is also what drew me to Express. The way the brand mixes everyday staples with pieces that feel a little more elevated definitely resonates with me and the way I like to dress.

Sports Illustrated recently rated you as the league's second-best WR2. Is that a compliment, or do you scoff at that because you see yourself differently?

I don't really pay too much attention to rankings like that. I know what I bring to the table and what I’m capable of, so lists like that don’t change how I prepare or how I see myself. If anything, I use it as motivation.

The Bengals were one of the teams featured on Hard Knocks two seasons ago. Did you enjoy that experience? What did you love or hate about it?

It was different, having cameras around that much, but I actually enjoyed it. It gave people a real look at what we go through day to day, the work behind the scenes that fans don’t usually see. The only tough part was just staying used to having a camera in your face during meetings or workouts, but our locker room handled it well. Looking back, I think it was a cool experience to be part of.

The NFL keeps evolving. How have you adapted your route-running, training, or film study to stay ahead of the game?

I spend a lot more time in the film room now than I did when I first came in. Defenses are getting smarter and disguising things more, so I have to know not just my job but what the whole defense is trying to do. I’ve also worked on adding more details to my releases and route breaks, little things that create separation at the top level. It’s really about staying a student of the game every year.

What’s one piece of gear, clothing item, or accessory you travel with the most that people wouldn’t expect?

I probably travel with more basics than people would expect. I always pack a few versatile pieces, like clean tees and an overshirt, because I can style them in different ways depending on what I’m doing. That’s something I like about the Express collection: the pieces are comfortable, easy to layer, and versatile enough to work for a few different outfits throughout an entire trip.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Style section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

How Jesse Owens Changed Olympic History 90 Years Ago Today

At the dawn of August 3, 1936, Adolf Hitler expected to see German athletes prove their superiority in competition. Instead, on that date 90 years ago today, Jesse Owens made Olympic history by winning his first of four gold medals in a feat many saw as a moral victory that went far beyond sports. Just over three years later, on September 1, 1939, Germany would begin its invasion of Poland. That marked the beginning of World War II as Britain and France declared war on the country two days later.

As an article from The Columbus Dispatch notes, Jesse Owens won his first Olympic gold medal after prevailing in the 100-meter dash on August 3, 1936. On August 4, 5, and 9, he earned another three gold medals in the 200-meter dash, long jump (then known as broad jump), and the 4x100-meter relay, respectively.

Since Owens became the first American to win four Olympic gold medals, that alone was enough for him to have become a historic figure. However, the fact that he prevailed during the 1936 Olympic Games, which were held in Berlin, has been seen as a major moral victory over Hitler's Germany. The belief was that his victories served as a direct affront to the German dictator, who believed that Aryan people were the master race.

The popular claim that Hitler specifically snubbed Owens after the athlete won gold has long added gravitas to the discourse of the dictator being humiliated. However, as a June 2021 History.com article noted, the reality of the snub claim is far more complicated than some present it as. The outlet noted that Hitler stopped personally congratulating any athletes earlier in the games after being told he would have to greet every winner or none. It also noted that some witnesses claimed that the dictator and Owens acknowledged each other after the gold medal wins.

Owens' victories were meaningful in another way, as they underlined international hypocrisy. Even though the track-and-field star's triumphs were seen as a rebuke to the German leaders' racist beliefs, racism was an international plague that knew no boundaries.

While he was hailed as a national hero during the Olympics, the athlete returned to a Depression-era America that still severely mistreated Black people. As the same History.com article detailed, he was forced to take a series of "demeaning jobs for years" after his Olympic glory. It even noted the specific example of him being forced to make money racing against horses. It wasn't until almost two decades later that his greatness was acknowledged with career success. In 1955, Jesse Owens was named a Goodwill ambassador by President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the U.S. State Department.

Next: ‘One of the Most Impressive’ Records in MLB History Was Set in 1941

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

All that being said, Jaafar appears to have gained the respect of Oscar/Grammy winner Will Smith. So much so that the King Richard star invited the Jackson family heir to be in his new project, Supermax. And funny enough, the invite didn’t come through agents necessarily, but through a text message. 

Will Smith Sends Text to Jaafar Jackson Inviting Him to ‘Supermax’

On August 3, after news broke that Jaafar will be starring alongside Smith in the Prime Video action-thriller Supermax, Smith himself took to social media to share the text message exchange between himself and Jaafar about Jaafar joining the movie. Apparently, Smith sent to Jaafar: 

“YO MAN!! Love what you do. You are the TRUTH! So… I got this new movie shootin’ in Australia soon — and we got a fun part for you. I know that’s a long flight… but I’d love for you to be a part of this flick— Supermax. What do you think?!”

In response, Jaafar kept it brief, replying, “I’m In!!! Guess I better pack my dang bags.” This is big news for Jaafar and his rising stardom in Hollywood.

Will Smith shows the text message he sent Jaafar Jackson when he offered him a role in his upcoming movie Supermax, which Jaafar Jackson accepted.

🎥Will Smith/Jaafar Jackson/IG pic.twitter.com/4lyr0pzsqW

— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) August 3, 2026

What is Will Smith’s ‘Supermax’ about?

Supermax is an action-thriller that follows Smith and AnnaSophia Robb as they portray FBI agents investigating a murder that takes place inside a maximum-security prison. While there is not much known about Jaafar’s role, Deadline reports his role is “pivotal to the film’s central plot.” A release date for the film has not been announced at this time.

Related: 58 Years Ago Today: One of the Greatest Westerns of All Time, Starring Clint Eastwood, Was Released

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Entering August, Peacock did just that, reportedly adding more than 80 new movies for subscribers, according to Discussing Film.

One of the most notable films added to Peacock on Aug. 1 was the 1997 drama classic Good Will Hunting, which stars Matt Damon, Robin Williams, and Ben Affleck, and was directed by Gus Van Sant.

Good Will Hunting (1997)

dir. Gus Van Sant pic.twitter.com/z5U6zjTu4f

— Stephen Gibbons (@Gibboanxious) August 3, 2026

It is widely regarded as one of the best movies of all time and, nearly three decades later, still holds a 97% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes.

One of the more interesting aspects of the film is that Damon and Affleck, who grew up as childhood friends in the New England area, wrote the screenplay together when they were in their early 20's.

The film earned several major awards following its release, including two Academy Awards. Williams won Best Supporting Actor, while Damon and Affleck won Best Original Screenplay. The duo also earned a Golden Globe for Best Screenplay — Motion Picture. Affleck still holds the record as the youngest person to win an Oscar for screenwriting.

With a budget of just $10 million, the film went on to gross $226 million worldwide and has only grown more popular over time.

Other Movies Heading to Peacock

Beyond Good Will Hunting, Peacock added well over 50 films at the start of August, including both Grown Ups movies, Field of Dreams, two Insidious films, and several other notable titles.

More additions are scheduled throughout the month, including Oppenheimer on Aug. 16, The Woman in the Yard on Aug. 27, and Love Island Season 8 on Aug. 31.

Related: Nancy Guthrie Update: Insiders Quietly Reveal 'The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly' of Hunt for Her Abductor

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

With Spider-Man: Brand New Day breaking records in its first weekend, it's a great time to see where it ranks in the franchise's history. These are the highest-grossing Spider-Man movies.

5. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

The first MCU Spider-Man film grossed $880.9 million worldwide. This is a big number, but it could have been bigger if there had been more than a three-year gap between this movie and the last one in the previous franchise with Andrew Garfield. This film had a playful, welcoming aesthetic that introduced new actors to the franchise and set up future films.

4. Spider-Man 3 (2007)

The last film in the Sam Raimi films was bloated and criticized for having too many storylines and famous actors. It still made $895.9 million, probably because Spider-Man 2 was so beloved and people were anticipating an even better film. The Spider-Man original trilogy is still incredibly popular today.

3. Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)

The latest outing in the franchise had the biggest opening weekend in the history of Spider-Man. Having already made an estimated $932 million, there's no telling just how high this one might climb by the end of its theatrical run.

2. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

The second Tom HollandSpider-Man movie was an adventure unlike the others, as it's set in Europe on a school trip that Peter and his friends take. Who knows whether this aided the movie or not, but it made $1.133 billion at the box office. It also set up for the number one movie on this list.

1. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

There will never be another movie quite like Spider-Man: No Way Home. A crossover event that featured actors from all three film series the character has been in, this movie was able to pull people back into the theaters after business insiders worried that the COVID-19 pandemic would permanently make movie-watching a home activity. It made $1.921 billion.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

That line became painfully clear for Rachel Finley, a 32-year-old New Yorker, who says she regularly consumed between eight and 10 cups of coffee each day while juggling college, restaurant work, and an active social life in her early twenties. During shifts, coffee was her constant companion. On nights out, she supplemented it with caffeine pills when coffee was unavailable.

Finley told Newsweek that the culture around restaurant work normalized heavy caffeine use. Since many colleagues relied on coffee to stay awake through demanding schedules, the habit never seemed unusual. Even as she experienced heart palpitations, chest heaviness, and poor sleep, she continued consuming large amounts of caffeine because it felt necessary to keep going.

Doctors Connected Her Symptoms to Caffeine Abuse

Although Finley eventually reduced her caffeine intake, the consequences lingered. At age 26, after telling a medical student friend that she still woke up exhausted despite sleeping eight to 10 hours each night, she underwent a sleep study. The evaluation led to a consultation with a cardiologist, who diagnosed her with an arrhythmia accompanied by heart palpitations that were believed to be linked to years of excessive caffeine consumption.

She described the diagnosis as devastating, recalling that she left the cardiologist's office in tears after being told she needed to change her lifestyle to reduce the risk of serious long-term health complications.

According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, roughly the amount found in four cups of brewed coffee, is generally considered safe for most healthy adults. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also notes that consuming too much caffeine can trigger symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, elevated blood pressure, headaches, upset stomach, increased heart rate, and heart palpitations.

Why Men Should Pay Attention

For men balancing demanding careers, endurance training, parenting, or side hustles, caffeine often feels like an indispensable performance tool. Coffee itself is not the enemy, but relying on excessive amounts to overcome chronic fatigue may conceal deeper issues such as inadequate sleep, chronic stress, or an underlying medical condition that deserves professional evaluation.

@hydrationceo

It’s all HAHA LOL IM A CAFFEINE ADDICT until one day it’s haha lol crying sobbing palpitation baddie 🥺 #caffeine #arrythmia #storytime

♬ original sound - HydrationCEO

Finley has since eliminated regular caffeine from her diet, drinks only decaffeinated coffee, and undergoes annual cardiovascular monitoring. She says she has been free of symptoms for several years. After sharing her story on TikTok, where it attracted more than 178,000 views, she hopes others will reconsider treating energy drinks, caffeine pills, and endless cups of coffee as harmless solutions to exhaustion.

Her experience illustrates that while caffeine remains one of the world's most widely consumed stimulants, more is not always better. Listening to persistent warning signs from the body and seeking medical advice when symptoms develop may prove far more valuable than reaching for another cup.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Health section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

All told, 16 songs reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1968.

This included another classic from one of the best-selling American rock bands of all time. On July 29, 1967, Jim Morrison and The Doors achieved their first No. 1 hit when "Light My Fire" topped the Billboard Hot 100.

On Aug. 3, 1968, The Doors scored their second No. 1 hit in the United States when "Hello, I Love You" peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The week prior, the song came in at No. 9 on the Billboard.

The Doors' hit song took over the top spot from Hugh Masekela's "Grazing in the Grass", which had spent two weeks at No. 1.

“Hello, I Love You” Topped the 'Billboard' for Two Weeks

"Light My Fire" spent three weeks at the top of the Billboard. As for "Hello, I Love You," the song held the top spot for two weeks before "People Got to Be Free" by The Rascals began a five-week run at No. 1 on Aug. 17.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the fourth instalment in the Tom Holland-led Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) franchise, has surpassed Avengers: Endgame (2019) to become the biggest opening weekend in box office history. The blockbuster, which co-stars Zendaya, Jacob Batalon,Mark Ruffalo, Michael Mando, Sadie Sink, Jon Bernthal, and Tramell Tillman, grossed $360 million domestically over its first weekend, outpacing Endgame's $357 million weekend opening (per Variety).

Globally, Brand New Day swung in with a $927 million opening, with only Endgame having a better worldwide first weekend, at $1.2 billion. Both Marvel films are the only movies in box office history to gross over $300 million domestically in their opening weekends.

These numbers are particularly impressive, given that Endgame, along with its predecessor, Avengers: Infinity War, was a groundbreaking crossover event for Marvel's A-listers and the culmination of over a decade of storytelling. Brand New Day follows Holland's original MCU trilogy, and, according to the actor, will likely be the start of a new series of films, most likely its own trilogy.

Even Spider-Man: No Way Home, which brought back Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire to reprise their own versions of Peter Parker/Spider-Man, along with the villains from their respective universes, did not make the same splash at the box office in its opening weekend as Brand New Day.

“Wow! 360 million thank-yous to all the filmmakers, actors, producers, and to my colleagues at Sony, who created such a fantastic film and an exceptional marketing and distribution campaign,” Tom Rothman, chairman of Sony Pictures, said in a statement following the announcement of the new record (per Variety). “Records are made to be broken, but we will take great pride in this one, for as long as we hold it.”

Aside from financial success, Brand New Day has been a smash with audiences critically, breaking the Rotten Tomatoes record for the highest audience score for MCU's Spider-Man franchise.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The story follows the powerful Dutton family as they fight to protect their massive Montana ranch from developers, politicians, and rival landowners. Those conflicts gave audiences something deeper than horseback chases and shootouts. They offered a world where loyalty, legacy, and survival collide in every episode.

As streaming platforms searched for content capable of keeping subscribers engaged, Yellowstone proved that Western themes could thrive when paired with modern storytelling. The show's popularity reached extraordinary heights, with several episodes attracting well over 10 million viewers across television and streaming. It has become one of the biggest scripted successes of recent years.

The Dutton Ranch Became a Franchise Powerhouse

The success of Yellowstone did more than create a hit television series. It launched an expanding entertainment universe built around the Dutton family.

Prequel series such as 1883 explored the family's difficult journey to Montana, while 1923 examined another generation facing economic hardship and social change. Each installment broadened the mythology, giving viewers fresh perspectives without abandoning the emotional foundation that made the original series compelling.

Additional projects continue to expand the franchise, including The Madison and other planned stories connected to the Dutton legacy. This growing collection of shows has transformed the fictional ranch into one of television's most recognizable settings.

Rather than relying on one successful program, Paramount has created a connected universe that encourages viewers to follow multiple generations of the family. That strategy has helped the franchise remain relevant even as the flagship series reached its conclusion.

Ranch Dramas Winning Over Modern Audiences

The popularity of Yellowstone reflects a broader shift in audience preferences. Today's viewers often gravitate toward character driven stories that unfold over multiple seasons instead of standalone Western films.

Streaming platforms also provide more time to develop relationships, rivalries, and emotional stakes. A television series can spend hours exploring family tensions, business negotiations, and personal sacrifices in ways a two-hour movie cannot.

Modern ranch dramas also blend several genres into one package. They combine family saga, political thriller, crime drama, romance, and action while still embracing the breathtaking landscapes and traditions associated with classic Westerns.

That combination has helped ranch dramas outperform many traditional Hollywood Westerns. Audiences are no longer watching only for cowboy hats and horseback rides. They are investing in families, generations, and high stakes conflicts that feel timeless despite taking place in the present day. The result is a revival that has given one of Hollywood's oldest genres an exciting new future.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Then summer hit, and the exact same thing happened. With temperatures climbing past 100 degrees for weeks at a time and humidity so thick I could barely breathe the second I stepped outside, my utility bill refused to budge. That got me wondering...what setting does the thermostat actually need to be on so I am not dumping my entire paycheck into heating and air conditioning?

"The key principle is simple: the smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperature, the less work your HVAC system has to do," says Travis Arnesen, VP of Marketing at Service Experts. "Homeowners often focus on finding the 'perfect' temperature, but consistency and smart scheduling usually have a much bigger impact on energy bills than chasing a specific number."

Related: Cleaning Experts Say This Household Staple Is the Best Way to Melt Grease Off Kitchen Cabinets

The Ideal Thermostat Settings for Every Season

While there's no single magic setting, most pros point to a few reliable guidelines. You want to stay as close to the outside temperature as you can tolerate, and setting your thermostat roughly 7°F higher or lower when you leave the house is usually enough to slash your cooling or heating costs without putting too much strain on your system when you get back.

"There isn't one perfect thermostat setting because many factors play a role," says Michael Haines, Chief Commercial Officer of AC Direct. "As a general rule, I tell homeowners to keep the thermostat around 76 to 77°F in the summer when they're home and 82 to 85°F when they're away. In winter, 68 to 72°F while you're home and 60 to 65°F when you’re away is a good balance between comfort and energy savings."

Why Shutting Your HVAC Off Entirely Backfires

Knowing how to handle your HVAC while you are away on vacation is just as important. It is tempting to shut the whole system down to save cash, but that approach usually backfires the second you walk back through the front door and flip it on.

"Turning off the HVAC stops energy use, but it tends to consume more energy once it's turned on to recover the previous temperature," says Tamer Sayed, a licensed HVAC technician and the owner-operator of Tamas Mechanical. "Instead of turning the system off completely, it's better to adjust the temperature. Raise it a few degrees in summer and reduce it during winter."

Beyond the extra energy spike on your bill, shutting the unit down entirely "can allow indoor humidity levels to climb, which may leave the home feeling uncomfortable and place additional stress on furnishings, electronics, and wood materials," says Arnesen.

At the end of the day, saving money on your utility bills comes down to moderate setbacks rather than extreme shutoffs. By keeping your system running efficiently year-round, you can keep your home comfortable without getting blindsided when the bill arrives.

Related: This Cheap Aluminum Foil Dishwasher Hack Restores Silver Flatware. Here’s How to Do It Right

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Home Living section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

She's an entrepreneur, a doting mother, and a marketing genius. So, it's safe to say her fans extend beyond the tennis court. But there are fans, and then there are true fans of Serena Williams. And it's those fans whom this Heineken campaign is targeting — and rewarding.

Williams and Heineken unveiled Second Serve Tickets on Monday, a campaign that revives tickets from any of Williams' past U.S. Open tournaments for a chance to score a seat in the exclusive Heineken Suite at Arthur Ashe Stadium at the 2026 US Open, beginning later this month.

The campaign is simple. But not everyone will have the chance to enter. As mentioned, only the most ardent Serena Williams fans will have a chance at the ultimate prize.

To enter, fans must submit a photo of their old ticket stub along with a personal memory of that experience. The most passionate fans will be invited to return to the stadium. Those lucky enough to be chosen will be turning a piece of history into a new U.S. Open experience.

"Looking back at my career, some of my favorite memories happened on the courts at the U.S. Open. Reflecting on those moments this year has reminded me what made those wins truly unforgettable: the energy of the fans cheering me on from the stands," said Serena Williams, Heineken 0.0 Global Ambassador, in a statement. "That's why I'm so thrilled to partner with Heineken 0.0 for Second Serve Tickets. It's an incredible concept that celebrates the fans who were right there with me, giving them a place to come together, share their own stories, and build new friendships."

But if you don't have a ticket from one of Serena's previous U.S. Open matches, it's all good. Fans can still visit Heineken's social media accounts for information on how to win tickets.

"At Heineken, we believe shared fandom sparks new connections. Serena Williams has brought some of the most passionate sports fans together year after year to celebrate greatness, connection, and the joy of the game. That is why we are thrilled to partner with her and recognize her fans who have been there from the beginning," said Maggie Timoney, Chief Executive Officer of Heineken USA, in a statement. "With the continued demand for non-alcoholic options, we are proud that Heineken 0.0 is at the center of the action, offering a premium, no-compromise option to stay refreshed throughout every moment of the US Open."

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Producer and screenwriter Simon Afram and his company, Op-Fortitude, filed a lawsuit against Netflix in California on Wednesday. They claim the company failed to protect an unencrypted master copy of Fortitude, a $45 million World War II spy thriller that reportedly took seven years to complete.

The movie stars Cage as Duško Popov, the real-life double agent believed to have helped inspire Ian Fleming’s James Bond. Its cast also includes Ben Kingsley, Michael Sheen, Matthew Goode, Ron Perlman, Alice Eve, and Ed Skrein, while Con Air director Simon West was behind the camera.

According to the lawsuit, an associate producer personally delivered the drive to Netflix’s Los Angeles office on June 15. The streaming service was considering buying the film’s distribution rights and screened it the following day.

The filmmakers allegedly asked Netflix to delete the digital cinema package after the screening and arrange for the drive to be collected. Instead, they say their attempts to retrieve it initially went unanswered.

Nine days after the screening, a Netflix executive reportedly informed the production team that several drives had been stolen from desks inside the office. Whoever took them may have been gone in 60 seconds, but the resulting legal dispute is unlikely to disappear nearly as quickly.

The Producers Say the Theft Destroyed the Movie’s Value

Afram argues that the missing drive has jeopardized the movie’s commercial future because a complete, unencrypted copy could theoretically surface online at any time.

The lawsuit says prospective distributors may be reluctant to spend millions acquiring a film that could later appear on a piracy site for free. It also claims the incident has affected insurance negotiations, release plans, and a possible awards campaign.

So far, however, there is no public evidence that Fortitude has leaked or been offered for sale online.

The producers are seeking at least $105 million in damages. That would buy hundreds of Mercedes-Maybach GLS SUVs, making this perhaps one of the most expensive reminders in Hollywood history not to leave valuable hard drives sitting on a desk.

Netflix Disputes Responsibility for the Missing Film

Netflix has rejected the allegation that it should bear the financial risk associated with the theft.

“Netflix disputes any claim that it bears the risk of loss for a film delivered without the proper industry-standard safeguards,” a company spokesperson told Reuters.

The company emphasized that it does not own the rights to Fortitude. It also said it had conducted an investigation and offered to monitor known piracy platforms for unauthorized copies of the movie.

That leaves the two sides divided over a central question: Who was responsible for protecting an unencrypted film master while Netflix considered buying it?

The dispute may sound like an unusually expensive Hollywood mishap, but it also reflects a much broader concern about digital information. At a time when your car knows more about you than many drivers realize, a single portable drive can apparently hold enough valuable data to trigger a nine-figure lawsuit.

For now, Fortitude remains unreleased, its global distribution rights remain available, and its allegedly missing copy has not surfaced publicly. The mystery surrounding the drive may ultimately attract more attention than the film had received before it disappeared.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.