I remember the first time I saw Ross and Monica’s dance in one of the most ridiculous episodes of Friends, and I distinctly recall the joy I felt as they busted a move on New Year’s Eve. Well, that same feeling came over me again when I watched Taylor Swift and Domhnall Gleeson dance in the “Opalite” music video. It turns out other Swifties were thinking about this too, because they can’t stop comparing the pop star’s silly dance to that scene from the legendary sitcom.

Right after the “Opalite” video was released, I knew it was one of my favorite Taylor Swift music videos, largely because of the dance she did at the end of it. It’s so funny and ridiculous, and there’s no denying its similarities to the dance Ross and Monica do in “The One with the Routine” (which is Season 6, Episode 10, and it’s available to stream with an HBO Max subscription). To prove that point, take a look at eventswithlana’s TikTok:

Ross and Monica’s moves even fit with “Opalite” perfectly!

Now, I have no clue if this was intentional. While Taylor Swift loves an Easter egg, I cannot confirm or deny if this is one. However, the serendipity here is wild, and it’s hard not to wonder if it was done on purpose.

I mean, along with the full commitment to silly choreo and the fact that Ross and Monica’s moves fit “Opalite,” the pop star did say she and the cast “made the effort to time travel back to the ‘90s,” in her Instagram post about the video. And it’s simply a fact that Friends was one of the best sitcoms of that era. So, in short, the parallels are paralleling in more ways than one, and fans are loving it.

Along with this TikTok and one particularly viral tweet from @everslay13 that featured the video of Ross and Monica and the caption “Opalite music video with no context,” lots of other fans pointed out this similarity too. Here are a few of the reactions that compared this iconic Friends moment to Swift and Gleeson’s dance:

• that Opalite dance sequence was giving Monica and Ross’ routine from friends #OpaliteMusicVideo -theveryfistnat
• This is just as iconic as the Monica and Ross dance routine omg #OpaliteMusicVideo -@sarahsromantics
• close enough. welcome back monica and ross! #opalite -@tswizzie4444
• this is such a monica and ross geller reference😭😭 -@everlikeme

Now that I’ve seen it, I can’t unsee it! This comparison is so spot on. Even though the moves are different, the vibes are certainly the same, and I love how shamelessly the pairs are dancing in both clips. Clearly, they love this routine, despite the reactions from others in their respective clips, and the joy radiating off them is infectious.

So, take this as your sign to choreograph a silly dance with a loved one or learn one of these. Clearly, they’re having a blast, and I love the fact that they radiate such similar positive energy that people can’t help but point it out.

“Don’t you sweat it, baby, it’s alright,” because Taylor Swift’s music video for “Opalite” is incredible, and it features a truly remarkable cast. However, while it may seem like the inclusion of Domhnall Gleeson, Jodie Turner-Smith, Greta Lee, Cillian Murphy, Graham Norton and Lewis Capaldi is very random, it’s actually really not. Now, Swifties are pointing out the exact moment they think the pop star came up with the idea to get all these folks in the video for her The Life of a Showgirl track.

Back in October, right when The Life of a Showgirl was released, Taylor Swift appeared on The Graham Norton Show to promote it. As this chat show goes, she was seated next to a wide-ranging group of talent that included Cillian Murphy, Greta Lee, Jodie Turner-Smith, Domhnall Gleeson and Lewis Capaldi. And during the interview, The Paper star made a comment about how he’d love to appear in one of the singer’s music videos.

Well, I guess you can say he manifested it, because it happened. It also seems like that mention is what sparked the idea for the “Opalite” video. Or at least that’s what fans think, as they’ve been posting things like:

Literally, it looks like a lightbulb went off in Taylor Swift’s head right after Gleeson said, “I’m hoping to get in a Taylor Swift music video.” And she kind of confirmed that, too. That’s because in the “Opalite” video, she included a clip of this happening and that “ah-ha” moment, take a look:

Then, in Swift’s Instagram post about the video, she wrote that the idea for this video “crash landed” into her “imagination” during the interview. Specifically referencing what Gleeson said on The Graham Norton Show, the singer wrote:

Sometimes, you can’t stop inspiration, and it’ll hit you at the wildest moments. However, in this case, I think the About Time star’s comments made the inspiration obvious. Now, we have this remarkable music video directed by Swift that’s hilarious and features a truly iconic cast.

So, to celebrate, fans are pointing out the exact moment they think the crash landing happened. I have to say, I agree with them, and I too am thinking things like:

Now, Taylor Swift is no stranger to a celebrity cameo in her music videos. Ethan Hawke and Josh Charles appeared in “Fortnight” for a fun Dead Poets Society moment, and Swift’s Eras Tour dancers, singers and band played big roles in “The Fate of Ophelia” video.

Truly, fans are obsessed with the celebs Swift chose for “Opalite,” because it really feels like we could see the idea forming in real time. As this fan pointed out:

The jaw drop really is amazing, and I’m so happy Swift fully committed to the idea. Fans are, too, and I’m loving their reactions. Here are a few more:

• Opalite mv is so cuteeee she had them ALL star in it 😭 -@lovetaydua
• PLEASE IT WAS EVERYONE ON THAT COUCH??? EVEN GRAHAM NORTON HIMSELF?????? #Opalite THAT’S SO CUTE. -@adorkablyswift
• Taylor after finishing her interview on the Graham Norton: YOU GET A CAMEO, AND YOU GET ONE, YOU ALL GET A CAMEO #opalite -@fvreverwinter

Well, I guess if there’s a lesson to be learned here, it’s that if you pitch a great idea to Taylor Swift, she might act on it.

Now, if you don’t mind me, I’ll be watching this video on repeat, searching for Easter eggs and saying thank you to Domhnall Gleeson for joking about being in one of Taylor Swift’s music videos.

When it comes to 2025 TV premieres, The Office spinoff, The Paper, definitely threw me off, in a good way. I went from having no interest in it, to suddenly getting very excited by the premise and then binge-watching it in the matter of a few days. But now that I’ve finished it, it’s safe to say that I’m all in on the new workplace comedy from Peacock.

But, there is an aspect of the show I’ve been scratching my head about since finishing the season finale: Ned and Mare’s budding romance.

I Think Ned And Mare Are Cute, But Is The Paper Forcing Their Romance On Us, And Too Soon?

As someone who grew up watching examples of TV relationship “couple goals” like The Office’s Jim and Pam, Parks and Recreation’s Leslie and Ben or Friends’ Chandler and Monica, what has happened in The Paper across the first season is both completely expected and off brand for what we’ve come to know from the genre all at once. For one, having the two main characters of a comedy show, who work together, kiss at the end of the first season, feels unheard of. The series going by a binge release model definitely doesn’t help, but I was rather shocked that the relationship between a boss and his subordinate is heating up on the show so soon.

It left me wondering if the creators are doing so because they feel like they need to rope us in sooner with a romance because those elements of other shows like them have been highlights for fans. And look, I love a romance as much as anyone else, especially the beginning of a kind of messy one between two very likable characters, but I wonder if bringing them together too soon will mean I, and other viewers will fizzle out on them quicker. A big part of what makes them as iconic as they are was how the writers and actors left us longing for them to be together, and I simply didn’t have enough time on The Paper to decide if I like them together.

TV Show Office Romances Have Been At Their Best When It's A Slow Burn (And This Definitely Isn't One)

That being said, maybe it’s better that I’m left in uncharted territory and curious by the end of The Paper, and where Ned and Mare are concerned. And, co-creator Greg Daniels did tell NBC that the decision was a point of great discussion among the other writers and cast. In his words:

The more I think about it, what’s bothering me the most is what The Paper cliffhanger says about formulas in comedy shows, and my worries about whether it will work if the show does divert from the norm. I’m definitely excited that The Paper Season 2 has already been renewed, and it’s not trying to be a carbon copy of The Office, but I also want to experience the next great TV couple, and Ned and Mare have left me in uncharted waters.

The Wizarding World is one of the most popular IPs of all time, largely thanks to the Harry Potter movies. That franchise, which is streaming with a HBO Max subscription, is full of outstanding talent, including Domhnall Gleeson. He played Bill Weasley in the last two movies, but recently revealed that his first day on the set was a total disaster. He's definitely got a good story.

The Harry Potter cast featured a number of names that would be bound for greatness, including Gleeson. While appearing on Late Night with Seth Meyers, the 42 year-old actor spoke about his rocky start to joining the behemoth property. In his words:

Oops. From a phonetic standpoint, there are some similarities between these two accents. I can't imagine Gleeson is the first actor to accidentally slip into the wrong one. But he was doing this on the set of a wildly expensive franchise... in front of a ton of his fellow actors. I'm not going to lie, this kind of sounds like a stress dream.

The Star Wars alum went on to tell Seth Meyers that his accent flub on Harry Potter only got more humiliating from them. Not only did the cast notice, but he also got a note from the director about just how wrong his accent work was. As Gleeson shared:

Whoops. This certainly doesn't sound like the first impression you want to make as an actor... let alone the stakes involved with a franchise like Harry Potter. I will say that I re-watched his scenes in the seventh and eighth movies and couldn't tell. So clearly Gleeson was able to land the plane eventually.

Domhnall Gleeson shared this story on Late Night while promoting his new show The Paper, which is available with a Peacock subscription. While lamenting about just how horrible that first day in the Wizarding World was, he connected the two project by joking:

Soon enough we'll be introduced to a new version of Bill Weasley, thanks to the developing Harry Potter TV show. The upcoming book to screen adaptation is expected to be more accurate to the books, thanks to having way more hours of storytelling available. As such, maybe we'll get much more of the eldest Weasley child compared to the limited screen time of Gleeson in the films.

The Harry Potter franchise is streaming in its entirety on HBO Max, which will also be the home of the TV version. The Paper's first episode is streaming now on Peacock as part of the 2025 TV schedule, and the Office spinoff has already been renewed for Season 2.

The Office is still regarded as one of the best sitcoms of all time (both the U.K. version from Ricky Gervais and the NBC hit starring Steve Carell that came along later), to the point where the TV show actually became more popular once it was streaming and its current home on Peacock has special “superfan” edits of some episodes. It’s been a teensy bit over 12 years since the series finale, but fans can now look forward to the 2025 TV schedule delivering the spinoff, The Paper, which will star Domhnall Gleeson. However, the actor realizes that people are already comparing his character to Michael Scott, but he thinks it’s a fool’s errand.

What Did Domhnall Gleeson Say About Fans Comparing His The Office Spinoff Character To Michael Scott?

The upcoming series (which will hit Peacock on September 18) is set in the same world as The Office and is also created, in part, by Greg Daniels, who had the same job for the 2005 U.S. version of the comedy. But, The Paper isn’t about an additional cast of characters who work at Dunder-Mifflin or any other paper company, but employees at a struggling Toledo, Ohio newspaper.

About Time star Domhnall Gleeson talked to People about the quickly approaching series, and noted that while people are already comparing his lead character, Ned Sampson, to both Steve Carell’s (who’s advocated for The Office spinoff) Michael Scott and Ricky Gervais’ David Brent, he doesn’t think it’s a fair comparison. As he said:

Even though I can see where it would be completely natural to assume that Ned would either be lovably (and frequently) incompetent like Michael or a tragically lonely people-pleaser like David, The Paper would have to bring us a whole new thing as much as possible to set itself apart. Otherwise, why would the documentary crew that covered Jim, Pam, Michael, Dwight and everyone else in Scranton decide to follow those at The Truth Teller?

It should be noted that while Gleeson has his own set of great performances behind him, he’s not the same kind of performer as either Carell or Gervais, along with helping to bring a new character to the small screen. He’s portrayed many different kinds of roles (even playing a kidnapping serial killer opposite Carell in The Patient cast in 2022) and is sure to give us something brand new, but still funny and lovable, when his show premieres.

In a previous life, I was a newspaper reporter. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication, I left my hometown behind and eventually found a job at a small regional daily newspaper in the Midwest. So, when I found out that The Paper, Greg Daniels’ long-in-the-works offshoot of The Office, was going to follow a Midwestern newspaper trying to survive in today’s climate, my excitement level went through the roof!

As someone who dedicated a chunk of his adult life to city councils, boards of education, court, random ribbon cuttings, and the occasional breaking news story (still peeved my “Double Down and out of Town” headline was cut from a KFC story), I’m hoping this show allows me to look back on the funnier moments of my life at the paper. And thinking back on my time racing to meet a deadline, arguing for a story’s placement, or taking phone calls from upset subscribers, there’s a lot I want to see in this upcoming 2025 TV show.

A Stressed-Out And Underpaid Yet Close-Knit Group Of Reporters Has To Key To The Show

Much like the Office cast, I suspect The Paper is going to feature various employees from various sides of the business. At the core of the show, I need there to be a stressed-out and underpaid yet close-knit group of reporters who are trying to balance their personal lives while also getting the news to readers seven days a week.

While covering high-profile criminal cases (or spending three hours reading a book while you await a continuance to kick the can down the road), attending all kinds of local events, or wasting a Monday night at a local high school meeting can be fun, this is a stressful and unloved job. My colleagues, who quickly became lifelong friends, made that daily grind a whole lot more tolerable, and that made the difference. I hope we get some ragtag group of misfit writers trying to survive their beats when The Paper lands on Peacock later this year.

I Want There To Be Clashes Between The Editorial And Business Sides

One thing that a lot of the best journalism movies and TV shows have in common is the battle between editorial and business. On one hand, the news and editorial teams are trying to share the daily happenings with readers and the communities they cover, and on the other, you have the administrative and business folks thinking about the bottom line (looking at you, The Wire Season 5). While both sides get along (for the most part), more times than not, there’s a big divide there.

This is something I was kind of oblivious to until I started working for a paper after college. One day, I found out that one of my stories was buried, not because of my writing, but because the company I was writing about didn’t take out ads with us. Though moments like that pissed me off, I never failed to see the humor in it, and I honestly think that could make for a hilarious and brutally honest story for The Paper.

I Can't Wait To See How The Show Portrays A Dying Institution Trying To Recapture Its Former Glory

The newspaper business isn’t what it was 10 years ago, and it’s certainly not what it was during its heyday in the 20th century. Based on what Peacock has said about the upcoming show, The Paper will center on The Truth Teller, a newspaper in Toledo, Ohio, being revived by an eager publisher. I take that to mean a struggling publication trying desperately to recapture its former glory, and that sounds awesome.

My old paper celebrated its 150th anniversary two weeks before I was hired as one of its six beat reporters. Throughout my first year at the daily, I heard stories about the institution’s past and how it was one of the anchors of the local community for decades. It was admirable and exciting, albeit sad to see how the industry was a shell of its former self, with online competition and social media impacting operations. I honestly cannot wait to see how such situations are handled in the new show.

Crazy Local Residents Showing Up At Local Meetings And Events Is A Must

Shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation had so many side characters steal the show, and I don’t think The Paper will be any different when it comes around this fall. And let me tell you, if the new sitcom ends up focusing on the crazy local residents who show up at meetings, events, or even the newspaper’s front desk, we’re in for a real treat.

If I saw certain folks walk into a city council meeting or wait outside a board of education meeting, I knew I was in for a long yet eventful night (that may or may not turn into a story). We had made-up nicknames for some of these guys that turned into inside jokes we still laugh about years later. I guarantee that having Domhnall Gleeson, Sabrina Impacciatore, or Oscar Nuñez’s characters run into similar people and come up with their own inside jokes will make for must-see TV.

And There Has To Be An Eccentric And Wealthy Publisher, Right?

Some of the best sitcoms of all time, like WKRP in Cincinnati and NewsRadio, had wealthy and eccentric owners or publishers who brought a great deal of chaos to the lives of their employees. This is something I really want to see when The Paper comes out. Having worked with well-to-do people like that in the past, I can honestly say having such a character would provide a well of comedy that would never run dry.

I had a publisher who would insist on writing weekly stories on a typewriter that someone (usually the last to avoid eye contact) had to copy into our content management system. The same publisher would randomly show up and cover an event I was already working on and then forget to write it, meaning we’d get no story. It was never a sticking point, but more of an awkward and absurd moment my fellow reporters and I would laugh about later. And now I kind of miss it.

All in all, I cannot wait to see what The Paper has in store when it starts streaming with a Peacock subscription… even if it’s just to get all nostalgic and laugh about a previous life.

It’s been over 10 years since The Office ended after nine seasons, but a new series is finally on the way, either on the 2025 TV schedule or in 2026. Streaming soon for those with a Peacock subscription, The Paper will see the Dunder Mifflin documentary crew setting their sights on a dying newspaper in the Midwest. Although it will include a new cast, The Office alum Oscar Nuñez will be returning as Oscar Martinez, so there are some connections to the original.

Now, his former co-stars Steve Carell and John Krasinski are putting the work in and can’t stop advocating for the spinoff. Here's what we know.

The Advice John Krasinski And Steve Carell Gave Domhnall Gleeson

Domhnall Gleeson, who is starring in The Paper, told People he has actually received advice from Krasinski leading into the upcoming gig. The A Quiet Place star originally portrayed Jim Halpert on all nine seasons of the NBC sitcom, and more recently passed the torch to Gleeson. In fact, he gave him some simple (but honestly great) advice that really seemed to go a long way:

Krasinski is not the only person related to the original series who offered advice. After starring as regional manager Michael Scott for the first seven seasons, Carell gave Gleeson a similar note when he was considering the role. Both The Office stars basically told Gleeson not to pass up the chance.

Gleeson admitted he was “happy” he did the series, noting he thinks they have “something really lovely.” Even though doing a reboot, revival, or spinoff of a series that is so beloved and hasn’t been on for a while can sometimes be a bit risky, it sounds like everyone was really supportive from the original show.

It's a sign that hopefully The Paper is going to be special. At least I'm inclined to believe it given how much Steve Carell has been going around lately advocating for the spinoff. Someone has to do the work!

What Else Steve Carell Has Said About The Office Spinoff

On top of the advice to Gleeson, Carell has been sharing his thoughts on The Paper. Most recently, he was asked by AP what his thoughts were on The Office universe continuing, and he couldn’t help but shout out creator, writer, and director Greg Daniels.

The actor feels that anything under him is going to go well, and he seems to be as excited as ever to see how it all turns out:

Despite The Office nearly getting canceled after only six episodes, the show remains a favorite among fans today. Of course, any series, especially if it’s a reboot or revival, can be a hit or a miss. And it will be very hard to match the energy and magic that was The Office.

That being said, since Daniels is behind The Paper as well, that should bring a little bit of excitement to fans. And while I can't guarantee it will be perfect, at the very least, it’s going to be a show fans will want to take a chance on. To prepare, there are already superfan episodes of The Office on Peacock that will get anyone in the mood.

Spoilers for The Fountain of Youth are ahead! If you’d like to watch this new adventure film, you can stream it with an Apple TV+ subscription.

After a globe-trotting, action-packed adventure to find The Fountain of Youth, John Krasinski and Natalie Portman’s siblings, Luke and Charlotte, seemed like they were more than ready to go on another treasure hunt. Then, at the very end of the 2025 movie schedule entry, The Fountain of Youth, Charlotte’s son declared that he knew what they should find next.

So, with that in mind, I asked the cast of this Guy Ritchie film that’s new to streaming this week what they’d like to find next if The Fountain of Youth gets a sequel. I have to say, their answers didn’t disappoint.

Natalie Portman And John Krasinski Stayed Tight-Lipped About The Fountain Of Youth’s Next Quest

First off, we have Portman and Krasinski. When I posed this question to them, they stayed tight-lipped about what their next adventure could be. In fact, the Black Swan actress was quick to tell me:

Her on-screen brother quickly backed her up, saying that they didn’t want to give anything away. However, he also made his excitement for a potential sequel known by saying:

Obviously, I would have loved to hear their hopes and dreams for a new treasure hunt. However, this coy response tells me that there might be talks of a sequel, and that, my friends, is something I’d like to see.

However, while they didn’t tell me their grand treasure hunting aspirations, Portman ended on a joke that made me laugh. After The Office actor said he’d find anything with her, she quipped that they could find her “keys” next. Honestly, I’d watch that.

However, Domhnall Gleeson Had A Fun Pitch For A Potential Fountain Of Youth Sequel

I’d also watch the idea Domhnall Gleeson pitched when I asked him and Eiza González this question. Gleeson’s Owen Carver likely wouldn’t be in the sequel, considering that final scene in the fountain. However, the actor did have an idea for what Luke and Charlotte could hunt down next, explaining:

Tír na nÓg is an Irish myth that, as the About Time actor said, means Land of Youth. According to Irish Central, this place is a supernatural realm of “youth, beauty, health, abundance, and joy.” So, this sounds like a world where the idea of The Fountain of Youth is amped up, because it’s the “Land of Eternal Youth,” not just one singular item. So, it feels like a fun story to follow for a sequel because it would be connected to the first film while also focusing on a new myth, culture and treasure.

While Eiza González wasn’t so sure about it because of how much it rains in Ireland, Gleeson hammered home the idea, saying:

That got her on board, and it got me on board as well.

Like great adventure films like Indiana Jones, The Fountain of Youth could easily expand into a franchise that sees these characters hunting down lots of incredible treasure. These responses made me hopeful that it could happen. And who knows, if we do get a sequel, maybe they could go find Tír na nÓg or even Natalie Portman’s keys, no matter what way they go, I’ll be sat.

When The Fountain of Youth premieres on the 2025 movie schedule, I have a feeling a bunch of people are going to feel nostalgia for the adventure films they grew up on. So, with that in mind, I asked the film's stars, John Krasinski, Natalie Portman, Domhnall Gleeson and Eiza González, about the most formative films from this genre. While Indiana Jones was their most common answer, the Baby Driver actress provided a solid reason for why we should add Disney movies to this list, too.

Indiana Jones Was The Common Response When I Asked About Formative Adventure Films

Growing up, adventure films like National Treasure defined my childhood, and Guy Ritchie’s The Fountain of Youth feels like it could do the same thing for a new generation. So, when I interviewed John Krasinski and Natalie Portman, who play siblings in this movie that will be streaming on Apple TV+ very soon, I asked them about the formative action/adventure films from their childhood.

The Office actor was quick to answer with some of the best action movies ever, saying:

Portman replied by saying she “couldn’t agree more” with her co-star. Like The Fountain of Youth, both Indiana Jones and The Goonies tell the stories of epic adventures and fearless heroes.

Indiana Jones turned out to be the most common film to come up among this cast, too, when asked this question. That’s because, not only did Krasinski mention it and Portman agree with him, but Domhnall Gleeson also told me:

Truly, when I think of classic adventure films, I picture Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones first, then the dinosaurs from Jurassic Park, those kiddos in The Goonies, and Nicolas Cage stealing The Declaration of Independence in National Treasure. However, those are all notably live-action films, and Eiza González told me why some animated classics need to be included here, too.

However, Eiza González Made A Great Point About Disney Movies

As I mentioned, when I asked this question to Eiza González, she took the road less traveled with her answer. While she mentioned live-action gems like The Mummy and Tomb Raider, she also noted that what makes an adventure movie an adventure movie is a story about friends who go on a journey and learn something about themselves and the world along the way. Therefore, we have to include some of the best Disney animated classics on this list, too, as she said:

Truly, Aladdin, The Lion King and so many other animated films are also wonderful adventure flicks, and as González said, they fit into this category of formative film.

For generations, these flicks have been watched by kids as they’ve grown up, and like Indiana Jones, they show us some truly epic and inspiring tales.

So, when you think back on all the magical adventure movies that defined your childhood, don’t just think live-action. Get those Disney movies in there too, and then let that reflection lead to a rewatch, I mean, all those animated flicks mentioned and the Indiana Jones movies are available with a Disney+ subscription.

Then, on May 23, make sure to use your Apple TV+ subscription to tune in for The Fountain of Youth, an epic brand-new adventure film that all the actors mentioned are a part of.

Star Trek has been around for decades, and it takes a lot of people to fill a ship. As such, there's no shortage of actors who have joined its ranks over the years, but even in 2025, there are still some who haven't. With upcoming Trek shows on the horizon, I had to highlight some of the prominent names in sci-fi who I would love to see join Starfleet or some other role in this galaxy.

Whether it's joining a full-length series or just popping around for a one-off movie, these actors would be perfect for Star Trek. Frankly, some of them have done so much sci-fi in their careers that I'm shocked it hasn't happened already. All that being said, let's jump on my picks and go over where I'd best see them fitting into the franchise when it comes to roles.

Gillian Anderson

Had Bryan Fuller remained the showrunner of Star Trek: Discovery, this could've happened already. The creative revealed on the D-Con Chamber that Gillian Anderson was planned to play a Starfleet Captain, though her exact role in the series was not defined. It is ironic that the person paired with David Duchovny to play the paranormal skeptic in The X-Files could've been someone who regularly interacted with aliens in Star Trek.

I don't think there's any denying Anderson would be the perfect fit for a Starfleet Captain or some other high-ranking official in the organization. I would say she has "Janeway energy," so it's easier to see her in that captain role because someone has previously paved the way with a character I could've easily seen her playing as well. Will it ever happen? I want to believe.

Rosario Dawson

After playing Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars and nurse Claire Temple in Netflix's Marvel shows, it only seems fitting that Rosario Dawson jumps to Star Trek next. In fact, the actress said years ago she's a fan and would love to be a part of the franchise, initially proposing that she play a background character just to be included in the fun and complete a lifelong dream. Of course, she's a big deal in Hollywood, and I doubt the franchise would toss her in rather than offer her an actual role.

Dawson's father suggested she play a Q, and I'm 100% on board with that idea. I think linking her to Starfleet is just too obvious of an option, and we could use more Q characters in the franchise to inject additional chaos into the shows every so often.

Alan Tudyk

Alan Tudyk isn't just a sci-fi actor; I would say a vast majority of the work in his career has come from the genre. He was burned on the set of Rogue One and was on the cast of Firefly, one of the most iconic canceled sci- fi shows. Frankly, I'm shocked he's never done anything with Star Trek, and I think it's high time that change.

The best thing about Tudyk is that he's just as iconic as a voice actor as he is in live-action. That makes him a perfect fit for any species of the week that Star Trek: Strange New Worlds could use, corporeal or otherwise. For some reason, I see him playing a Medusan, but I can't explain why that sounds so perfect.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page hasn't been as active in Hollywood as in years past, but maybe it's because the right role hasn't come along. There's ample opportunity for the actor to make a comeback in the Star Trek franchise and an audience pre-dispositioned and ready to embrace the latest chapter in his life.

I also feel like Page just naturally has the look of someone suited to be a Vulcan or Romulan. Much like James Frain was the perfect fit for Sarek, I see Page taking on the role of a Vulcan leader or maybe a tough Romulan ready to take down the Federation with some brilliant scheme. In truth, I just want to see Page doing big things in Hollywood again, and I could think of no better fandom to welcome him into than the Star Trek universe.

John Boyega

There's a part of me that thinks John Boyega referring to his time in Star Wars as "franchise jail" means he won't readily do another sci-fi franchise again. Still, if there was a shortlist of actors in Hollywood, I would say are the best fit to bring back Star Trek movies, he'd be the star I'd want to prop up the franchise with.

As a franchise lead, he'd almost certainly have to be a Starfleet Captain. Sure, I'm all for the idea that anyone can be the lead of a Star Trek adventure, but he spent his time in Star Wars largely playing second banana to a larger story. It's high time we make John Boyega a leading man in sci-fi, and Trek would welcome him with open arms if he's willing to give it another try.

Domhnall Gleeson

I know I used the picture of him as Hux, but truthfully, I'd want more of the Domhnall Gleeson who appeared in Ex Machina for a Star Trek movie. Let's be honest, there's no shortage of Gleeson performances in movies that showcase his strengths as an actor, and they all make for a candidate that Starfleet would want among its highest ranks.

The problem is that Domhnall Gleeson is just so damn captivating as a villain. It would be a shame to have him in Star Trek and not play one of the most dastardly antagonists any of the quadrants have ever seen. I'm talking about something way worse than any of the most dangerous villains of The Next Generation, maybe even worse than Deep Space Nine's Dukat. He's capable of it, we just need someone over at Paramount to give him a shot and let him cook.

Katee Sackhoff

Katee Sackhoff has been a big name in the science fiction world for a while, really exploding onto the scene in Battlestar Galactica. Decades later, she's played Bo-Katan Kryze in The Mandalorian and talked about shifting over to Star Trek. Jonathan Frakes suggested she join Starfleet Academy, and I 100% sign off on that idea.

It may not be the best time to bring up Section 31 after critics were unkind in their reviews of the recent movie, but is there any person more suited for the morally gray faction? I could see Sackhoff steering the fandom back to being on board with Section 31, and if she can be paired up with Michelle Yeoh for a potential sequel to the movie, that's even better.

These are just a few names that I'd be thrilled to see involved with Star Trek as the franchise presses onward into the future. Those looking to keep tabs on everything on the way should pick up Paramount+ and catch up on some of the fantastic shows from the past few years.

Despite a limited number of seasons and episodes, Black Mirror has, since the beginning, killed it with its casting. The Charlie Brooker-led show has landed some of the biggest stars in the world for episodes and chooses some of the best character actors from both sides of the pond as well. Here are 32 casting examples that prove Black Mirror crushes it. 

Daniel Kaluuya

Before Daniel Kaluuya hit the really big time with break-out roles in Get Out and Black Panther, he had a role in just the second episode of Black Mirror, called "Fifteen Million Merits." Kaluuya played a low-level bike rider looking to escape his boring life by performing in a reality TV show. It's a powerful performance and helped set the tone for the series. 

Hayley Atwell

Season 2 of  Black Mirror started with a bang, with an episode called "Be Right Back" starring Hayley Atwell and Domhnall Gleeson in a real mind-bending episode about a couple with a classic Black Mirror twist. 

Jon Hamm

In between Season 1 and Season 2, Black Mirror aired a Christmas special featuring its first big American star, Mad Men's Jon Hamm. It's a super disturbing episode in a ton of ways, not the least of which is just how evil Hamm's character turns out to be. 

Bryce Dallas Howard

Season 3 marked a big change for the show when it moved to Netflix. It also started with a band with the episode "Nosedive" starring Bryce Dallas Howard. It felt a first like a different take on the general premise of Black Mirror, being brighter and seemingly more upbeat. But that didn't last long, of course, and Howard's performance made it all work perfectly. 

Kelly MacDonald

Kelly Mac Donald isn't often the star of her projects but she is consistently excellent in everything she is in. She does star in one episode of Black Mirror, the Season 3 episode "Hated In The Nation" which is the show's take on a police procedural, with  MacDonald playing the main investigator. 

Salma Hayek

There are few stars bigger than the great Salma Hayak and her role in the episode "Joan Is Awful" in the Sixth Season is just perfect. She plays a version of herself, playing the character Joan and her no-BS attitude is just pitch-perfect. 

Jesse Plemons

The first episode of Season 4, "USS Callister" often ranks among the best episodes of Black Mirror, and a big reason why is the performances of the actors in the episode. There is no character more important than manipulative Captain Robert Daly played wonderfully by Jesse Plemons. 

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott elevates basically everything he is in. Whether it's shows like Sherlock and Fleabag or movies like 1917, he also turns in one of the most memorable performances. Black Mirror is no exception. While the episode he appears in, "Smithereens" isn't well regarded among fans, there's no denying that Scott's performance is excellent and even earned him an Emmy nomination. 

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie has never shied away from playing Gay men, with his first breakout role coming as a Gay art student in the film Brother to Brother. His role in Black Mirror wasn't quite as clear cut, as he played a man clearly struggling with his feelings and identity in the Season 5 episode "Striking Vipers." 

Kate Mara

The Season 6 episode, "Beyond the Sea," is one of the more messed up episodes of Black Mirror and that's really saying something. Kate Mara stars in the show as a woman trapped in the middle of a love triangle by two astronauts, one her husband, and one her suitor. It's a polarizing episode, like many, but there's no question it's as disturbing as the show can get. 

Miley Cyrus

In the final episode of Season 5, Miley Cyrus stars as Ashley O, a pop star not unlike her real-life self. Of all the Black Mirror episodes, it's maybe the least disturbing, but that really makes it underrated, if anything. It still makes the viewer question modern culture and tech, it just doesn't end in tragedy. 

Topher Grace

In Smithereens, Topher Grace plays a Jack Dorsey-type tech CEO who leads a social media company. While the episode is often criticized for its simplistic social commentary, by Black Mirror standards, Grace's performance is actually pretty perfect. All the acting performances are great in this uneven performance. 

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright had been building a solid career in the U.K. before 2018 when she exploded on the world stage with her appearance in Black Panther. Prior to becoming a big part of the MCU, however, she starred in the Season 4 finale, "Black Museum." It's a fun episode with an almost greatest hits-type vibe, as it's filled with easter eggs to previous episodes. 

Benedict Wong

Benedict Wong has low-key become one of the most popular side characters in the MCU as... well... Wong. The same year he joined the MCU, in 2016's Doctor Strange, he also starred in the Season 3 episode "Hated in the Nation." He has a smaller role in the show compared to some of the other stars (like Kelly MacDonald) but he's great, as he always is in his many roles. 

Aaron Paul

Aaron Paul will likely forever be known first and foremost as Jesse Pinkman from Breaking Bad. There's nothing wrong with that, but Paul has had an impressive career outside of the legendary AMC show as well. One very notable role came in Season 6 of Black Mirror when he appeared alongside Josh Harnett and Kate Mara in "Beyond the Sea." It wasn't Paul's first appearance on the show, however. He had a quick cameo in "USS Callister" during the show's 4th Season. 

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz hit the big time as a member of the hit show Atlanta starting in 2016. She later gained an even larger fanbase as Domino in Deadpool 2. In 2023, she got to star in an episode of Black Mirror called "Mazey Day" which broke new ground for the show, dipping into the supernatural for the first time. Though it wasn't the most well-received episode of the series, Beetz put together a great performance as a paparazza. 

Josh Harnett

Over the last 25 years, Josh Harnett has quietly put together one of the most underrated careers in Hollywood. He's played all kinds of roles, from heartthrobs to nuclear physicists. Of course, he also appeared as part of the star-studded cast of "Under The Sea" in Season 6. 

Michael Cera

Michael Cera has never been afraid to play ridiculous versions of himself. Most notably, in This Is The End, but also in the Season 6 episode "Joan is Awful." Everyone in the episode is playing some sort of version of themselves and Cera, as the character Beppe is, of course, over the top in his performance and we're here for it. 

Tobias Menzies

As character actors go, they don't get much better than Tobias Menzies. The English actor seems to pop up constantly in "prestige" shows. He was Brutus in HBO's Rome, he was Edmund Tully in Game of Thrones and he won an Emmy for playing Prince Philip in two seasons of The Crown. In the second season of Black Mirror, he played a British politician running for office against an animated bear named Waldo in "The Waldo Moment."

Domhnall Gleeson

Sure, Domhnall Gleeson is part of two of the biggest franchises in film history as a member of the Weasley family in the Harry Potter movies and General Hux in the Star Wars movies, but he's also been one of the best actors around for a couple of decades now. He appeared in the first episode of Season 2, "Be Right Back."

Wyatt Russell

Even though he has two very famous actors as parents, Wyatt Russell originally strived to play professional hockey. When injuries cut his career short, he fell back on acting. Lucky, huh? Still, he's putting together a really nice career, one that includes an appearance in the 2016 episode "Playtest."

Jodie Whittaker

Jodie Whittaker made history when she became the first woman to play The Doctor in three seasons of the modern era of Dr. Who. That wasn't Whittaker's first dabble in  science fiction TV, however, as she appeared in the third-ever episode of Black Mirror called "The Entire History of You." She is excellent in the episode, which ranks tops all-time on quite a few rankings. 

Jerome Flynn

One of the most disturbing episodes of Black Mirror came in its third season. "Shut Up and Dance" is a complicated episode, as viewers are repulsed by the characters, including, most notably, the one played by Game Of Thrones vet Jerome Flynn. Viewers are also taken aback by what those terrible characters have to do. It's a polarizing episode, but that's part of what makes it so great. 

Rory Kinnear

There are two roles that Rory Kinnear is likely most recognized for. One is Bill Tanner in four of the Daniel Craig-era James Bond movies. He's one of the most important characters from the Craig-led Bond films. The second is from the now-legendary premiere episode of Black Mirror called "The National Anthem." His performance as the beleaguered Prime Minister forced to do unspeakable things in the episode is, frankly, legendary.  

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett has been killing on screen for more than 40 years now and though his role in the second episode of Season 1 is small, he's brilliant. He plays a Simon Cowell-type on a dystopian version of Britain's Got Talent and he, like Cowell, steals the show as a judge. 

Cherry Jones

Season 3's first episode, "Nosedive" is a fantastic episode, and a big reason why is the acting performances, including from Cherry Jones, who appears in only one scene of the show, but it's the pivotal moment in the show. Jones is one of the more underrated character actresses in Hollywood, but she's probably best known for playing President Allison Taylor on 24 and Holly Maddox in two seasons of The Handmaid's Tale. 

Oona Chaplin

Oona Chaplin comes from a family of true film royalty. Her grandfather was the legendary Charlie Chaplin. She's carved out an impressive career as well. She's best known as Talisa Stark, the ill-fated wife of Robb Stark in Game of Thrones, where she was the first death at the infamous Red Wedding. She stars alongside Jon Hamm in the Christmas special of Black Mirror in a smaller role, literally and figuratively, but her performance is sure to freak out everyone who watches. 

Jimmi Simpson

It's hard to believe that Always Sunny In Philadelphia first hit the airwaves in 2005, but it did. Jimmi Simpson has been along for most of the ride, as the oddball frenemy to "The Gang" and member of the McPoyle family, Liam McPoyle. He also appeared one of the most star-studded casts of Black Mirror in the "USS Callister."

Annie Murphy

Annie Murphy is most famous for playing Alexis Rose in Schitt's Creek and in 2023 she appeared as a strange version of herself playing "Joan" in "Joan in Awful" alongside Salma Hayek in the sixth season.  

Kirsten Dunst

"USS Callister" has one of the more star-studded casts and one of the stars you may not have even seen, Kirsten Dunst. Dunst's cameo in Black Mirror is truly a blink--and-you-miss-moment in the episode. She appears as a fellow office worker in the show and it's so brief most people missed it. 

Cristin Milioti

The multi-talented Cristin Milioti started her career on the stage on Broadway where she became a Tony-nominated actress, but made her on-screen breakthrough as "The Mother" in How I Met Your Mother. Since then, she's shined in shows like Fargo, The Resort, and The Mindy Project, as well as starring in "USS Callister" in Black Mirror. 

Will Poulter

Will Poulter seems to like showing in prestige TV shows. In addition to starring in the groundbreaking interactive "choose your own adventure" Black Mirror movie called Bandersnatch, he's also shown up in a cameo on The Bear. That's in addition, of course, to his film roles in The Revenant, Midsommar, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3., among many others. 

In Hollywood, there are plenty of celebrities we all know and love, but sometimes, we might not realize that there are other actors they are related to, such as famous parents who have been around for decades. From new up-and-coming stars to people who have been in the business for some time, here are some celebrities with famous parents that you should know about. 

Gwyneth Paltrow

First up on this list has to be Gwyneth Paltrow. While the actress has built a career for herself over the last few decades with roles in movies like Shakespeare in Love, Seven, and of course, her role as Pepper Potts in the Iron Man movies, Paltrow comes from fame and is the daughter of Bruce Paltrow and Blythe Danner, both of which worked in the industry. 

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke may be an up-and-coming star, with her breakout role as part of the Stranger Things cast and only continuing to grow as an actor as time passes, but her parents have been around for some time. Hawke is the daughter of the actor Ethan Hawke and the actress Uma Thurman, who were married for a time back in the early 2000s. 

Anderson Cooper

While we all know Anderson Cooper now for his presence on the cable news network CNN, Cooper came from a large family that we all know well. His mother was Gloria Vanderbilt, who was a part of the famous Vanderbilt family. 

Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston has become a significant actress in the last couple of decades, specifically for her time as Rachel Greene in the Friends cast and many other great movie and TV roles. But Aniston also comes from Hollywood royalty, as her father was John Aniston, who was on the classic soap opera Days Of Our Lives for 37 years. 

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie's best movies have only evolved over the years, from her time as the classic Disney villain, Maleficent, to her critically acclaimed roles. Jolie's father is Jon Voight, an Academy Award-winning actor; and her mother is Marcheline Bertrand, a Hollywood actress.

Chris Pine

Chris Pine is another example of someone you would never expect is the child of another celebrity, but his father was Robert Pine, and his mother was Gwynne Gilford. Robert Pine is best known for starring in the TV series CHiPS, while his mother appeared in many TV shows during the '70s and '80s. 

Colin Hanks

Colin Hanks has appeared in various films and TV shows over the last few years, including Fargo, Band of Brothers, Dexter, and more, and he hails from famous actor Tom Hanks. In 2022, Colin Hanks was a part of The Offer cast on Paramount Plus. 

Margaret Qualley

Margaret Qualley is another actress who has been up and coming for some time now, appearing in films like Death Note, Once Upon a Time In Hollywood, and more, as well as in TV shows like The Leftovers and Maid on Netflix. Qualley's famous parent is Andie MacDowell, a former fashion model and actress who has appeared in films like St. Elmo's Fire, Groundhog Day and Four Weddings and a Funeral. 

Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz's best movies include The Batman, the Divergent franchise, and more, but she hails from a family of famous faces. Her father is the renowned guitarist/actor Lenny Kravitz, and her mother is a Hollywood it girl, Lisa Bonet. Zoe Kravitz is also the granddaughter of Roxie Roker, from the CBS sitcom The Jeffersons. 

Dakota Johnson

Dakota Johnson has appeared in plenty of movies, including the Fifty Shades of Grey series, and she is the daughter of Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith. Johnson was known for his role on the TV show Miami Vice, and Griffith appeared in films like Working Girl, Something Wild, and more. 

Mamie Gummer

With a mother like Meryl Streep, it's no surprise that Mamie Gummer went into acting. Streep, known for many famous roles, was married to Don Gummer for several decades and had a few children with him, including Mamie Gummer. The actress has starred in the CW series Emily Owens, M.D., and appeared in films like Side Effects, Cake, and more. 

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones is the daughter of the famous musician Quincy Jones. Considered a legend in the music industry, Jones was a significant influence and worked with several prominent musicians, such as Frank Sinatra and Count Basie. Rashida Jones  is known for numerous acting roles, including her part in the Parks and Recreation cast as Ann Perkins. 

Riley Keough

Riley Keough is an actress who has appeared in movies like The Runaways, Magic Mike, Mad Max: Fury Road, and more. She is the daughter of Lisa Marie Presley, who was the daughter of Elvis Presley. 

Liv Tyler

Liv Tyler is a well-known actress for her roles in movies like Heavy, Armageddon, Ad Astra, Wilding, and more, as well as the Lord of the Rings movies. But you might not know that Tyler is the biological daughter of Steven Tyler, the frontman of the famous band Aerosmith. 

Lily-Rose Depp

The actress is the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis. Lily-Rose Depp made a name for herself in 2023 with her starring role in The Idol cast on HBO. Depp has also appeared in other movies and roles, such as Tusk and A Faithful Man. 

Tracee Ellis Ross

While many know Tracee Ellis Ross as one of the main stars of the hit family show black-ish, Ross is the daughter of another famous face in Hollywood – Diana Ross, a legendary singer from the 1970s and beyond. Ross can sing like her mother, too, and recorded an album for the film The High Note in 2020.

Bryce Dallas Howard

Bryce Dallas Howard is known for many incredible movies and TV shows. She'll even be in the 2024 release of Argylle on Apple TV+ and is a well-known actress. However, her father, Ron Howard, began in Hollywood first and is a renowned director. Some of his biggest movies that he's directed include Willow, Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind, and Frost/Nixon.

Jessica Capshaw

Jessica Capshaw is primarily known for her role in the TV shows The Practice and Grey's Anatomy, which has gone on for many years. However, Capshaw is also the daughter of actress Kate Capshaw, whom you might know from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, among other films. Jessica Capshaw is also the step-daughter of a famous Hollywood director you may have heard of – Steven Spielberg.

Jasmine Cephas Jones

Jasmine Cephas Jones earned much acclaim for her roles in the Hamilton cast and went on to star in the Starz series Blindspotting, but her father, Ron Cephas Jones, had been in Hollywood for far longer. While he has numerous movie and TV credits to his name, you may known him in recent years from his part among the This Is Us cast before he sadly passed away in August 2023. 

Lily Collins

Lily Collins is known for her starring role in the Emily in Paris cast and several other movies like The Blind Side and Mirror Mirror. Her father, Phil Collins, is a well-known musician and was the lead singer and drummer of the band Genesis. 

Jack Quaid

I knew who Jack Quad was before I knew who Dennis Quaid was, thanks to the young actor being in The Hunger Games franchise and then in one of the best Amazon TV shows, The Boys. His father, Dennis Quaid, has been in Hollywood for many years. Dennis Quaid's list of films include The Parent Trap, Breaking Away, Vantage Point, and more. Jack Quaid's mother is Meg Ryan, an actress known for her great romantic comedies and hilarious comedic timing. 

Harley Quinn Smith

Harley Quinn Smith is a young actress on this list who has appeared in movies such as Tusk and Yoga Hosers. Her father is Kevin Smith, a filmmaker who has made movies like Clerks, Mallrats, and more. He also directed both Tusk and Yoga Hosers. 

Laura Dern

Laura Dern is the daughter of Bruce Dern and Diane Ladd. Bruce Dern has appeared in movies like Nebraska, Coming Home, and more, and Diane Ladd also appeared in films like Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, Wild at Heart, Rambling Rose, and more. Ladd is the recipient of three Academy Awards. 

Allison Williams

Allison Williams has appeared in the show Girls and horror movies like the Jordan Peele-directed film Get Out and M3GAN. She is the daughter of Brian Williams, a famous news correspondent for NBC Nightly News. 

Kate Hudson

Kate Hudson is a well-known actress who has appeared in movies like Desert Blue, Almost Famous, Bride Wars, How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days, and more. Her mother is Goldie Hawn, and her biological father is Bill Hudson. Based on the post she shared honoring Kurt Russell -- her mother's long-time partner -- on Father's Day in 2022, it seems she has a very close family relationship with him. 

Liza Minnelli

When you think of Hollywood it girls, Liza Minnelli is bound to be one you think of, appearing in such movies as Cabaret, Stepping Out, The Act, and more. An EGOT winner, Minnelli is the daughter of director Vincente Minnelli and Judy Garland, known for her starring role in The Wizard of Oz. 

Domhnall Gleeson

Domhnall Gleeson is primarily known for his roles in the Harry Potter franchise, where he played Bill Weasley, and appeared in Star Wars films and movies like Anna Karenina, Frank, and more. He is the son of Brendan Gleeson, a famous actor who has appeared in movies like 28 Days Later, The Banshees of Inisherin, Gangs of New York, and more. 

Kaia Gerber

Kaia Gerber is a well-known young model who has appeared in Fashion Week for the last couple of years. She is the daughter of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, two famous models. Arguably, Crawford was one of the most popular models of the 1980s and '90s, and it's fitting that her daughter is turning out to be the same in the 2020s. 

Maude Apatow

While everyone knows Maude Apatow from the Euphoria cast, as her character in the show, Lexi, is a fan favorite, the actress grew up as the child of Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann. Judd Apatow's best movies that he has directed include Bridesmaids, Trainwreck, and The King of Staten Island, among others. Leslie Mann is a famous actress in films like This Is 40, Knocked Up, Big Daddy, and more. 

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis first appeared in the BC drama Quincy, M.E., and continued to gain popularity over time with her roles in the Halloween franchise and many other films. She is the daughter of Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, two well-known classic movie actors. Curtis lets their legacy live on now, and even won an Academy Award for her acting in 2023 for Everything Everywhere All At Once. 

Hailey Baldwin

Hailey Baldwin is a model who is the daughter of Stephen Baldwin, an actor who has appeared in movies like Bio-Dome, 8 Seconds, and more. She is also the niece of famous actor Alec Baldwin. Her legal last name now is Hailey Bieber, as she is married to well-known singer Justin Bieber, but many remember her as Hailey Baldwin from her earlier years in the industry. 

Cazzie David

Cazzie David is a scriptwriter and actor. She appeared in The Umbrella Academy on Netflix and has written TV show scripts for Hannah Montana, Eighty-Sixed, and more. She is the daughter of comedian and actor Larry David and Laurie David. 

Wyatt Russell

Wyatt Russell has appeared in shows like Black Mirror, Under the Banner of Heaven and more, and also was a part of The Falcon and The Winter Soldier cast. The actor is the son of Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

Other celebrities have famous parents out there, but these are just some you might not realize were related to someone famous. And now, I need to figure out who else might be related to someone I never knew about—time to dive into some Hollywood history. 

I have always appreciated when people follow in the footsteps of their famous parents. In fact, I think it is fun to see actors collaborate with their own children on-screen, of which there are more than enough examples. The following are 30 of our favorite movies and TV shows that proved to be a family affair for the stars involved.

Adam, Jackie, Sadie, And Sunny Sandler (You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah)

Not only did producer Adam Sandler star as the father of two girls played by his real daughters, Sadie and Sunny, in the You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah cast in 2023. The Netflix original coming-of-age dramedy also stars the comedian’s wife, Jackie, while Idina Menzel handled the role of Adam’s onscreen spouse.

Andie MacDowell And Margaret Qualley (MAID)

According to MAID developer Molly Smith Metzler, it was actually star Margaret Qualley who brought up the idea of casting her own mother, Andie MacDowell, as her character’s mother. The Golden Globe-nominated Four Weddings and Funeral star plays Paula (a woman with severe bipolar disorder) opposite the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood cast member in the Netflix original miniseries based on Stephanie Land’s memoir.

Angelina Jolie And Vivienne Jolie-Pitt (Maleficent)

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt gave her debut (and, so far, sole) onscreen acting performance opposite her mother, Angelina Jolie, in 2014’s Maleficent — a live-action reimagining of Sleeping Beauty from the villain’s perspective. According to Vanity Fair, the then-5-year-old got the part of a younger version of Elle Fanning’s character, Aurora, because other children were too afraid of the Academy Award winner in full makeup and costume in the title role.

Ben And Jerry Stiller And Anne Meara (Various)

Ben Stiller shared the screen with both of his late parents, legendary comedy duo Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, multiple times — the first being the 1989 mockumentary, That’s Adequate, followed by 1991 horror-comedy, Highway to Hell. Ben later played a sadistic fitness guru who purchases a youth weight loss camp from his parents’ characters in Disney’s 1995 summer comedy movie, Heavyweights, before casting them 2001’s Zoolander, with Jerry as Maury Ballstein and Meara cameoing as an egg-throwing protester.

Billy Ray, Miley, And Noah Cyrus (Doc, Hannah Montana)

Both Miley Cyrus and her sister, Noah, made their acting debuts on the medical drama, Doc, which was led by their musician father, Billy Ray Cyrus. Years later, the “Achy Breaky Heart” singer took a supporting role on Miley’s smash hit Disney Channel show, Hannah Montana, which Noah would also appear on in various unnamed roles.

Brendan, Domhnall, And Brian Gleeson (Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows, Part 1, Frank Of Ireland)

Brendan Gleeson reprised Mad-Eye Moody in the penultimate installment of the Harry Potter movies, which also starred his son, Domhnall, as Ron Weasley’s older brother, Bill, in 2010. More than a decade later, the Academy Award nominee starred opposite the Star Wars movies actor and his younger son, Brian, in an episode of their Amazon Prime comedy series, Frank of Ireland, as a new boyfriend of the title character’s mother.

Blythe Danner And Gwyneth Paltrow (Sylvia)

In 2003, Academy Award winner Gwyneth Paltrow played the title role of a biopic about Sylvia Plath. To play the renowned writer and poet’s mother, Aurelia, Paltrow’s real-life mother, Tony and Emmy Award winner Blythe Danner was cast.

Chris, Tristan, And India Hemsworth (Thor: Love And Thunder)

After his older brother, Luke, portrayed his comic book character in a play in Thor: Ragnarok, Chris Hemsworth made 2022’s Thor: Love and Thunder a real family affair. Not only would Luke return, but Chris’s son, Tristan, appeared as the title character’s younger self in a flashback and his daughter, India, played Gorr the God Butcher’s daughter, Love.

Clint And Scott Eastwood (Gran Torino, Trouble With The Curve)

The first time Clint Eastwood acted alongside his son, Scott, was in 2007’s Gran Torino for a scene in which — as the Suicide Squad star claimed to Conan O’Brien — his father threw a few unscripted insults toward his character. Five years later, Scott starred in the baseball movie Trouble with the Curve as a minor leaguer discovered by his father’s character.

Damon Wayans And Damon Wayans Jr. (Blankman, My Wife And Kids, Happy Together)

Daman Wayans Jr. debuted as the younger version of his father’s character — aspiring superhero, Kevin — in the funny ‘90s movie Blankman, before landing a recurring role on his sitcom, My Wife and Kids, and later inviting him to play his dad on his own sitcom, Happy Together. In early 2023, Deadline reported that the Wayans are developing a new sitcom that will pair them up as an on-screen father-son duo once again.

Bruce Willis, Demi Moore, And Rumer Willis (Various)

Rumer Willis’ first two acting gigs were alongside her mother, Demi Moore, as Angela Albertson in the underrated ‘90s movie, Now and Then, and as the daughter of Moore’s character in the classic stripper movie, Striptease. The actor and singer’s next two roles would be alongside her father, Bruce Willis, with an uncredited cameo in the 2000 comedy, The Whole Nine Yards, and as the daughter of Willis’ character in the 2005 thriller, Hostage.  

Donald And Kiefer Sutherland (A Time To Kill, Forsaken)

The first time Donald and Kiefer Sutherland appeared in a movie together — namely 1996’s A Time to Kill — Donald played a civil rights lawyer and Kiefer played a vicious white supremacist. Nearly two decades later, the father and son played a father and son in a western called Forsaken.

Eugene, Dan, And Sarah Levy (Schitt's Creek)

The Schitt’s Creek cast has more than two related actors in it. Eugene Levy and his son, Dan (who also created the hit sitcom together), play Johnny Rose and his son, David, and Dan’s sister, Sarah, also stars as Café Tropical owner, Twyla Sands.

George And Mayan Lopez (Lopez Vs. Lopez)

Comedian George Lopez teamed up with his daughter, Mayan, and Debby Wolfe to create the NBC sitcom, Lopez vs. Lopez. The series — which  was renewed for a second season, according to Variety — also stars George and Mayan as a father and daughter forced to reconnect after year when they have no choice but to move in together.

Henry And Jane Fonda (On Golden Pond)

The 1981 film adaptation of the acclaimed play On Golden Pond was a very special moment in Henry Fonda’s career. In addition to being his final performance, which earned him a Best Actor Oscar, it saw him share the screen with his real-life daughter, Jane, who played his estranged daughter.

Johnny And Lily-Rose Depp (Tusk, Yoga Hosers)

A nearly unrecognizable Johnny Depp plays Guy LaPointe in Kevin Smith’s bizarre A24 horror movie, 2014’s Tusk, which also stars his daughter, Lily-Rose, as a convenience store employee. When Smith made a spin-off in 2016 focusing on Lily-Rose and Harley Quinn Smith’s characters called Yoga Hosers, Depp reprised the French-Canadian P.I. as well.

Judy Garland And Liza Minnelli (In The Good Old Summertime, The Judy Garland Show)

As The Guardian recalls, the multi-talented Liza Minnelli was just three years old  when she made her acting debut with a brief cameo at the end of 1949’s In the Good Old Summertime, alongside her mother — the iconic Judy Garland. The Wizard of Oz star later invited her daughter to perform with her on her variety program, The Judy Garland Show, in the early 1960s.

Kirk, Diana, Michael, And Cameron Douglas (It Runs In The Family)

It Runs in the Family, marks a rare instance of a movie starring three generations of an actor family. It stars Kirk Douglas and his former wife, Diana, as the father and mother of a man played by their real son, Academy Award winner Michael Douglas, whose own actual son, Cameron, also stars as his eldest son in the 2003 dramedy.

Leslie Mann And Iris and Maude Apatow (Knocked Up, This Is 40)

Leslie Mann’s character in 2007’s Knocked Up and its 2012 quasi-sequel, This is 40, is married to writer/director Judd Apatow in real life. Their children, Iris and Maude — the latter of which went on to star in the Euphoria cast as Lex Howard -- appear in both This is 40 and Knocked Up with Leslie Mann.

Martin And Charlie Sheen And Emilio Estevez (Various)

Charlie Sheen and Emilio Estevez are celebrity siblings who have acted together multiple times, including once with their father, Martin Sheen, with small roles in Badlands. However, every other time the actors appeared alongside Martin was individually — with Charlie in Wall Street, Cadence, and Hot Shots, most notably, and with Estevez in In the Custody of Strangers and The Way.

Meryl Streep And Mamie Gummer (Heartburn, Evening, Ricki And The Flash)

When speaking to Jimmy Fallon, Mamie Gummer looked back on her acting debut as a toddler in the 1986 dramedy Heartburn, which was led by her mother, Academy Award winner Meryl Streep. More than twenty years later, Gummer played her mother’s younger self in the 2007 romantic drama, Evening, before playing her estranged daughter in 2015’s Ricki and the Flash.

Ralph And Julia Macchio (Cobra Kai)

Ralph Macchio’s daughter, Julia, has made a name for herself as an actor in movies like Girl Most Likely and shows like Showtime’s City on a Hill. She would share the screen with her father on a couple episodes of Netflix’s Karate Kid sequel series, Cobra Kai, as Daniel LaRusso’s cousin, Vanessa — a young, but highly skilled, child psychology grad student.

Ryan And Tatum O’Neal (Paper Moon)

According to Collider, the record for youngest Oscar winner is still held by Tatum O’Neal for her performance in 1973’s Paper Moon. Her character in the crime dramedy directed by the late Peter Bogdanovich is a precocious, Depression-era orphan who teams up with a con artist who could be her father, played the actor’s actual father, Ryan O’Neal.

Robin And Zelda Williams (In Search Of Dr. Seuss, Nine Months, House Of D)

Zelda Williams had her first taste of show business with her father -- Academy Award winner Robin Williams -- right beside her in the 1994 TV movie In Search of Dr. Seuss and the following year with her small role in the Hugh Grant-led rom-com, Nine Months. Her first starring role in a theatrically released film was in 2004’s House of D, which also marked the third and final time she acted alongside her late father.

Sean And Dylan Penn (Flag Day)

Sean Penn and Robin Wright’s daughter, Dylan Penn, got her start as a model before she took up acting. Her biggest role to date was as the unwitting daughter of a criminal played by Sean in 2021’s Flag Day, which the two-time Academy Award winner also directed.

Sylvester And Sage Stallone (Rocky V, Daylight)

In the Rocky movies’ fifth installment, Rocky Jr. was the debut role of star and director Sylvester Stallone’s real-life son, Sage, who would later appear with his dad in the ‘90s action movie,  Daylight. Sage went on to become the founder of Grindhouse Releasing — which prevented him from reprising his Rocky V role in Rocky Balboa — and, according to CNN, sadly passed away at 36 in 2012.

Thandiwe Newton And Nico Parker (Reminiscence)

Nico Parker — known for Disney’s live-action Dumbo remake and HBO’s The Last of Us cast — is the youngest daughter of actor Thandiwe Newton and filmmaker Ol Parker. However, in the 2021 futuristic noir, Reminiscence, she appeared alongside the Westworld star as a grandmother and granddaughter. 

Tom, Colin, Elizabeth, Chet, And Truman Hanks (Various)

Tom Hanks has shared the screen with all four of his children. He cast Colin Hanks in a small role in That Thing You Do! before appearing alongside him again in 2008’s The Great Buck Howard. Elizabeth Hanks was also in That Thing You Do!, but debuted in Forrest Gump. Chet Hanks has been in Larry Crowne and Greyhound and Truman Hanks normally does technical film work, but has appeared in three of his dad’s movies — News of the World, A Man Called Otto, and Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City.

Will, Jaden, And Willow Smith (The Pursuit Of Happyness, After Earth, I Am Legend)

Jaden Smith has played his father's onscreen son in two of Will Smith's movies — the first being his debut role in 2006’s The Pursuit of Happyness and the second in the M. Night Shyamalan movie, After Earth. Willow Smith also made her acting debut as her father’s daughter in a heartbreaking flashback sequence from 2007’s I Am Legend.

If you're familiar with some or all of these films, you may agree that much of these parent-child pairings demonstrate the magic that can come from family members working together on screen. 

It often feels like rom-coms are a dime a dozen, but the truth is that the best romantic comedies are ones built on several things. Fans of the genre enjoy snappy dialogue, inventive and/or realistic complications for the central couple, a swoon-worthy love story, and, of course, main characters portrayed by actors who have more than enough on-screen chemistry to make all of those pieces come together. 

What’s great about romantic comedies is that we’ve gotten more than enough couples like this over the past two plus decades, but some of them have either only partnered one time (which, granted, may be because their pairing is still relatively new), or haven’t been in a film together for many years now. So, let’s take a look at the (mostly) rom-com partners that we really think should make another movie together!

Meg Ryan And Tom Hanks

This duo probably feels like a no-brainer to you, and, well, it should! Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks have memorably joined forces for two rom-com hits, Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve Got Mail, plus the 1990 cult favorite romantic comedy, Joe Versus the Volcano, so there’s no reason for them not to really round things out with a fourth film. I’d be down for a second chance romance where they learn to love again, wouldn’t you?

Diane Keaton And Keanu Reeves 

Yes, yes… Already I’m cheating here, but only a tiny bit. While the magnetic on-screen coupling of Diane Keaton and Keanu Reeves wasn’t the main focus of Something’s Gotta Give, I have spent the past 20 years wishing they were. So, let's get these adorably crazy kids back together! They could play any kind of couple (bickering marrieds who are clearly still hot for each other, two folks who shouldn’t get together but can’t help themselves, etc.) and I’d be in the theater on opening night.

Lana Condor And Noah Centineo

Honestly, there might not be a cuter couple on this list. The dreamy teen romance movie pairing of Lana Condor and Noah Centineo was, obviously, gifted to everyone with a Netflix subscription in the To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before trilogy, and there’s a reason that so many people fell head over heels for them. These two sorta sparkle together on screen, and I’d love to see them reunite in a romance (or any comedy) that’s got more of an adult edge to it.

Alison Brie And Jason Sudeikis

We all adore it when a rom-com gives us something different, and 2015’s Sleeping with Other People does just that with its story of friends who openly acknowledge their sexual tension, but purposely avoid doing anything about it so as to not screw up what they have. Alison Brie and Ted Lasso cast lead Jason Sudeikis are amazing as the friends in question, and I’d love to see them bring their casual, but still sexy, chemistry to another film. 

Jenny Slate And Jake Lacy

A true pleasure of watching Obvious Child was seeing the relationship between Jenny Slate and Jake Lacy’s characters develop as she has trouble revealing that she’s getting an abortion several weeks after their one-night stand. They work great as a duo with a clear attraction that’s impeded by a secret, and we’d really appreciate it if we could watch him warm her butter and make her tea in a movie that sees them as fully coupled characters.

Constance Wu And Henry Golding

I cannot tell a lie; some of the reason for Constance Wu and Henry Golding making the list is simply because we are all dying for the Crazy Rich Asians sequel we’ve been promised for several years now. While we wait, I’m hoping we can at least get those two into another fun rom-com where he can bring his posh, suave energy to meet her adorably spunky, girl-next-door verve.

Emma Stone And Ryan Gosling

What’s not to love about Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, especially when they star opposite each other in a romantic story? They were sweet, sexy, bantery, and slightly goofy together in Crazy, Stupid, Love, then had all of that with more emotional depth in La La Land, and also had the same chemistry in Gangster Squad, but with an added veneer of danger. It’s been a rough few years; the world needs more of their exact thing, OK?

Kate Hudson And Matthew McConaughey

I know, I know! Matthew McConaughey doesn’t make rom-coms anymore, but that’s honestly no reason why he can’t re-team with Kate Hudson, 20 years after they first hit the screen together in How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days. The engaging push-and-pull of their romance in that film can easily be translated to, say, a movie where each is portraying a lawyer on the opposite side of a big murder case. There! Someone make that movie!

Queen Latifah And Common

Just Wright might not be the first movie you think of when it comes to Queen Latifah or romantic comedies, but it’s hard to deny that watching her play off of Common as they slowly go from not-quite-enemies to lovers was a genuine treat. Now all we need is the right vehicle for them so their individual easygoing charm can show us how well-matched they are on screen.

Jennifer Garner And Mark Ruffalo

There’s a reason that 13 Going On 30 is still so popular almost two decades later. That reason is Jennifer Garner’s joyful, weirdo energy as a teen suddenly transplanted to her adult life, sure, but it’s also how Mark Ruffalo calmly reconnects with the childhood friend he’d long ago lost touch with. They're just sweet together, OK? We saw them in The Adam Project. We need more!

Sandra Bullock And Channing Tatum

The luminous and hilarious pairing of Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum was definitely not on my rom-com bingo card, but damn, it was a joy to behold once we got it. In The Lost City, they were perfect as a starchy and grieving romance novelist and her incredibly sweet but somewhat dim cover model who get caught in a life-or-death situation in the jungle, and all I can hope for is that we someday have a sequel to enjoy.

Billy Eichner And Luke Macfarlane

If an opposites attract energy is your thing, there’s no way for you not to enjoy the pairing of Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane. The Bros stars only just met up on screen in 2022, but we’d love to see them reunite in a rom-com that switches Eichner’s intense characterization and Macfarlane’s laid-back vibe around for additional laughs.

Meg Ryan And Hugh Jackman

Kate & Leopold is the rare romance where Meg Ryan’s character is less than sweet for much of the film, but watching her early ‘00s driven career woman begin to soften with the attentions of Hugh Jackman’s fancy man from the 1870s was a delight. Now if we can just get them to play off of one another when both are from the modern day, all will be right in the world.

Anne Hathaway And Chris Pine

We all know that The Princess Diaries 2 is so beloved that fans have wanted to bring the cast back for the now in development third movie for nearly 20 years, and part of that was because of the sweet, (sorta) slow burn love story between Anne Hathaway and Chris Pine’s characters. While everyone would love to see them as a long-married couple in a sequel, we’d also take them as, oh, I don’t know, bickering co-workers who can’t deny their attraction, so let’s stop stalling and get this coupling back on the big screen!

Julia Roberts And Hugh Grant

Look, I know that Hugh Grant is fully in his slimy villain era right now and is hilariously against even attempting rom-coms again. But! I think that makes the potential of this Notting Hill pairing coming back together even more appealing. Let him play a con-man who tricks Julia Roberts into falling in love, only to steal all her money and force her to track him down with a hilarious vengeance. I’d buy a ticket for that, OK?

Jennifer Lopez And George Clooney

Sure, sure. I’m cheating this entry a bit because, technically, Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney didn't star in a traditional rom-com together, but who among us can deny that they were HOT in Out of Sight? No one, that’s who! I say we get these two into a proper romantic comedy, but maybe one that’s not another Lopez wedding movie, just to switch things up.

Sanaa Lathan And Omar Epps 

Yes, this is another, more direct, fudging of this article’s concept, because Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps were a romantic drama pairing in Love & Basketball… but they were SO GOOD TOGETHER. Watching them play out a long-term path to eventual happiness was extremely satisfying, but maybe this time we can use that chemistry of theirs for a couple that has more good times than stressful ones.

Cristin Milioti And Andy Samberg

The chances that Cristin Milioti and Andy Samberg will strike time loop movie gold again after Palm Springs is incredibly unlikely, and we wouldn’t want them to try. Instead, why not let these two portray criminals on the run for separate crimes who accidentally cross paths and fall in love while they’re on the lam? They can give us that same adorably wacky enthusiasm that we all loved the first time around that way!

Kristen Stewart And Aubrey Plaza

If you saw Happiest Season, then you saw the undeniable spark between Kristen Stewart and Aubrey Plaza as their characters (Who weren’t even dating!) dealt with a lot of toxicity during Christmastime. They managed to genuinely bond (and look great doing it) over their similar relationship trauma, so I say we go ahead and give these two an even bubblier romantic comedy where they can actually freakin’ end up as a couple! 

Gemma Chan And Harry Shum Jr. 

Obviously, we didn’t get a real romance between the characters played by Gemma Chan and Harry Shum Jr. in Crazy Rich Asians, but the movie sure did set up the promise of fulfilling the epic love story that was a part of Kevin Kwan’s novel trilogy. Fans got a very brief scene of them looking all cute and dreamy with each other and dancing during the mid-credits scene, so hear me now: WE NEED THAT ASTRID AND CHARLIE SPINOFF, ASAP!

Issa Rae And Kumail Nanjiani

It may be hard to cast two people who have perfect romantic chemistry, but it could be even harder to find a duo who can portray the first glorious blush of falling in love, that same couple once they’ve begun to fall apart, and then play them as they start to get closer… because they’re on the run after being accused of murder. Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani are those people, and we’ve been wanting them back on screen since The Lovebirds to do something just as crazy and rom-commy again.

Reese Witherspoon And Josh Lucas

If you’re looking for a bickering duo who are hot together no matter what, that’s Sweet Home Alabama’s Reese Witherspoon and Josh Lucas, for sure. I’m sure they’d be great doing anything on screen, but also doubt anyone would mind if they paired for a story that would let them fight (and fight through) their attraction until they finally admit their feelings for each other.

Rachel McAdams And Domhnall Gleeson

You know what’s coming, right? After being apart for a decade, it’s About Time that Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson join forces again to bring fans another lovey dovey couple, and we don’t even care what the set up is!

Sarah Hyland And Tyler James Williams

Never has it been more enjoyable to watch a woman who’s not sure about the whole marriage thing date a man who’s very much ready for a long-term commitment than in The Wedding Year, and that was because of the well-matched chemistry/comedic energy of Sarah Hyland and Tyler James Williams. I think these two would be fantastic in an action/adventure rom-com like The Lost City!

Kristen Bell And Dustin Milligan 

Though Kristen Bell and Dustin Milligan starred in The People We Hate at the Wedding, which was more of a straight ahead comedy, they had a definite romantic comedy storyline and played off of each other beautifully. I’m imagining a cinematic rematch for them that involves both of their characters being messy and a bit angry this time, and I think they’ll be a delight to watch once again.

Vivian Oparah And David Jonsson

Even though Vivian Oparah and David Jonsson are a very new rom-com pairing, as their starring vehicle, Rye Lane, debuted in early 2023, there’s no doubting the fizzy joy one gets from watching their characters meet cute and end up slowly becoming attracted to each other over the course of one eventful day. These two can do anything together next, but I don’t think anyone would mind a sequel where we get to see this romance progress!

If nothing else, while we wait to see if these rom-com partners get back together on the big screen, we can all at least go back and enjoy the amazing films they’ve already given us!

Recently, Jenna Ortega went viral, and not for her creepy and kooky dance from Wednesday this time, but for being one of the first people to publicly pronounce Rihanna’s name correctly at the 2023 Golden Globes. This would certainly not be the first time we learned that we have wrongfully assumed (or been confused by) how to pronounce our favorite celebrities’ names. Let’s take a look at some of those who most commonly fall victim to this sort of mistake in Hollywood, starting with the right response to the aforementioned pop star’s question, “What my name?”

Rihanna (ree-ann-uh)

As Jenna Ortega casually dropped in a Golden Globes clip that blew up on TikTok quickly after, fellow nominee Rihanna (for her song, “Lift Me Up,” from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), is not pronounced “ree-AH-nuh,” but “ree-ann-uh.” 

Zendaya (zen-day-uh)

Another talented, single-named singer and actor who was nominated (and won) at that year’s Golden Globes for playing Rue on Euphoria is Zendaya, who — in a Snapchat video tweeted by Allure in 2016 — would inform anyone who may have called her “zen-DIE-uh” that it is actually pronounced like it is spelled.

Ariana Grande (ar-ee-ah-nuh gran-dee)

While this actor and pop star does actually pronounce her name the same as everyone else, Wicked cast member Ariana Grande revealed in an interview with Apple Music that she grew up using the pronunciation her grandfather did: “gran-dee.”

Brendan Fraser (bren-dan fray-zer)

Finally getting the recognition he deserves lately for his performance in The Whale is Oscar nominee Brendan Fraser, who is also finally being referred to by the correct pronunciation of his last name (“fray-zer,” which he pointed out to Adam Sandler in a one-on-one for Variety) instead of the way you would pronounce Kelsey Grammer’s title role from Frasier.

Charlize Theron (shar-leese there-uhn)

Academy Award winner (for Monster) and sought-after action star Charlize Theron let the world know in a 2016 interview that there are actually two different ways to say her name: the way she goes by (shar-leese there-uhn) or in the original South African dialect, (“throne,” like what a queen sits on).

Gal Gadot (gal gah-doht) 

Charlize Theron’s fellow Fast and Furious franchise star (and Wonder Woman in several DC movies) Gal Gadot has also had to inform the public (multiple times) that the “T” in the Israeli actor’s last name is not silent and the full name is pronounced much like it is spelled: “gal gah-doht.”

Hasan Minhaj (hah-sahn meen-hahj)

Former Daily Show correspondent and host of Netflix’s Patriot Act, Hasan Minhaj, had to inform Ellen Degeneres that the Indian-American comedian’s name is pronounced “hah-sahn MEEN-HAHJ,” instead of the commonly mistaken, “muh-nahj.”

Domhnall Gleeson (doh-nall glee-sen) 

Versatile Star Wars movies star Domhnall Gleeson left the world dumfounded by how to pronounce his Irish first name until he explained we should say “doh-nall” in a clip from EW’s YouTube channel.

Saoirse Ronan (sur-sha ro-nan)

An Irish actor whose first name is more notoriously mysterious (for both the spelling and pronunciation) is four-time Oscar nominee (for movies like Antonement and Lady Bird) Saoirse Ronan, who has assured us in multiple interviews — and in her SNL monologue — that it is “sur-sha.”

Zoe Saldaña (zo-ee sal-dahn-ya) 

Geek Goddess Zoe Saldaña (known for too many franchises to count) actually admitted to E! News that she initially introduced herself to the world as Zoe “Sal-DAN-uh” when, in reality, the accent mark is not to be ignored.

Raven-Symoné (ray-ven see-mon-ye)

Apparently, the accent mark in Raven-Symoné’s name is not to be ignored either, as the Disney Channel star made clear in a TikTok that it is not “sim-ohn,” but “see-mon-ye.”

Khloé Kardashian (clo-ay kar-dash-ee-yen)

It appears we have also been ignoring the accent mark in Khloé Kardashian’s name, and we have Andy Cohen to thank for letting us — and Jimmy Fallon — know that the social media mogul’s first name is not pronounced with a hard “E.”

Lindsay Lohan (lind-see low-en)

It appears that we have been mistakenly emphasizing the “HAN” in Mean Girls cast member Lindsay Lohan’s last name, as she took to TikTok to explain that it is really a much smoother, “low-en.”

Amanda Seyfried (uh-man-duh sigh-fred) 

Years ago, Lindsay Lohan’s Mean Girls co-star Amanda Seyfried claimed to Hollywood Streams that, despite her own sister going by the commonly mistaken “sigh-freed,” it is “sigh-fred,” which many others did not realize until Brad Pitt correctly announced her name at the 2021 Oscars, where her performance in Mank earned her a nod.

Joe Manganiello (jo manga-nello)

As former True Blood cast member Joe Manganiello demonstrated in an interview with Just Jared, it is much easier to pronounce his last name than many may have assumed: “manga-nello.”

Chrissy Teigen (kris-ee tye-gehn)

Model, actor, TV personality, and wife of John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, does not actually mind that people say her last name as “tee-gehn” instead of the official, Norwegian pronunciation, “tye-gehn,” and even told E! that they can continue calling her the former.

Ya know, I actually can relate to a lot of these celebrities with how often people get my own last name wrong. In fact, I would be willing the bet that the byline for this article had you dumbfounded already. But if there wasn't a stumper or five in this article I'd be very surprised. 

The Star Wars universe is constantly expanding, especially with the laundry list of new Star Wars projects announced for Disney+. This means there is room for a number of actors from different iterations of the franchise to reprise their characters in new and unique ways. When Domhnall Gleeson was asked whether or not he would be willing to play General Hux again in a future project for Disney, he had a very enthusiastic response. 

Hux hasn’t appeared in a galaxy far, far away since The Rise of Skywalker, but it seems like Gleeson is ready to change that. In speaking to The Wrap, the Star Wars alum spoke glowingly about his character in the beloved franchise and his willingness to play General Hux again. He said: 

It'd certainly be nice to see the stoic antagonist again on the big or small screen. General Hux was a big presence in the Star Wars Sequel Trilogy, serving as a prominent First Order leader alongside Supreme Leader Snoke and Kylo Ren. However, making an appearance in something set post-Rise of Skywalker may be impossible given the events from that movie. SPOILER ALERT, General Hux is shot dead for treason by General Pryde for helping Resistance fighters Finn, Poe and Chewie escape imprisonment and leading them to the Millennium Falcon. 

Nevertheless, Disney seems to be skewing its focus on Star Wars towards prequels anyway. The Obi Wan Kenobi series was a major success, with Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen both reprising their roles. That's in addition to The Mandalorian Season 3 being set for a 2023 release and Diego Luna will be reprising his role from Rogue One in Andor, a Disney+ series premiering later this month. Clearly there are plenty of potential ways for Gleeson to return to the franchise.

Since his Star Wars tenure, Gleeson has been quite busy. The Irish actor has participated in a number of projects, including the comedy/thriller series Run for HBO and the Irish comedy series Frank of Ireland. He is currently starring alongside Steve Carrell in The Patient, a miniseries for FX that is streaming exclusively for Hulu subscribers.

It may be a while before we see Domhnall Gleeson reprise his role in a Star Wars project, as there are currently no projects within the franchise he is officially attached to, assuming it happens at all. However, in the meantime, you can revisit his performance as General Hux in the Star Wars sequel films, currently streaming for Disney+ subscribers. Also, check out our feature on where to watch some other great performances by Domhnall Gleeson.

When an actor best known for comedy begins to take more dramatic roles, there is no telling how it might turn out until you see it for yourself. In the case of Steve Carell — who is best known as Dunder Mifflin’s sometimes bumbling Scranton branch manger, Michael Scott, on The Office — the transition could not have been smoother and, by now, seeing him lead a miniseries like The Patient is nothing out of the ordinary.

The 10-episode, FX original thriller from creators Joel Fields and Joseph Weisberg stars the Academy Award nominee as a psychotherapist being held prisoner by a man (the extremely versatile Domhnall Gleeson) who reveals himself to be serial killer and demands to be cured of his deadly tendencies. Seeing powerhouse performers like these in The Patient cast is enough to pique my interest, but we will be sure to talk about the limited series’ supporting players, as well, in our following breakdown of who is playing whom.

Steve Carell (Alan Strauss)

Recently widowed therapist Alan Strauss in The Patient is only the latest major dramatic role for the otherwise very funny Steve Carell, whose aforementioned Oscar nomination was for the 2014 true crime thriller, Foxcatcher. Since leaving the Office cast, he re-teamed with Anchorman director Adam McKay for satirical biographical dramas The Big Short and Vice, played the father of a recently deceased Marine in 2017’s Last Flag Flying and the father of a young addict in Beautiful Boy the following year, and was nominated for his sixth acting Emmy for one of the best Apple TV+ shows, The Morning Show, in 2020.

Of course, the star of hit comedies like Bruce Almighty, Little Miss Sunshine, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, and Crazy Stupid Love has certainly not left his roots behind, having co-created and starred on Netflix’s Space Force and collaborated with his old Daily Show buddy for writer and director Jon Stewart’s political satire, Irresistible, in 2020. Also in 2022, he leant his voice to the Despicable Me prequel, Minions: The Rise of Gru, as the titular criminal mastermind — his best known animated character, in addition to Hammy in Over the Hedge and Whoville’s Mayor in Horton Hears a Who!

Domhnall Gleeson (Sam Fortner)

Alan’s patient (and homicidal captor), Sam Fortner, might be Domhnall Gleeson’s darkest role yet, but it’s a pretty close race for the multi-talented performer who also played a computer hacker in 2012’s Dredd, chewed the scenery as General Hux in the most recent Star Wars movies, and was in Darren Aronofsky’s polarizing thriller, mother! He also played a frontiersman in The Revenant, a shady CIA agent in American Made, a former Irish mob hitman in 2019’s The Kitchen, and reunited with Alex Garland for the sci-fi cautionary tale Ex Machina (a couple years after playing a robot himself in one of the best Black Mirror episodes, “Be Right Back”).

However, the Irish actor’s filmography is not without its more notably lighthearted roles, such Levin in 2012’s Anna Karenina, a hopeless romantic with the gift of time travel in 2013’s About Time, an aspiring songwriter in 2014’s Frank, the creator of Winnie the Pooh in Goodbye Christopher Robin, one of Saoirse Ronan’s love interests in Brooklyn, and Thomas McGregor in the Peter Rabbit movies. Gleeson has also worked a number of times with his father, Emmy winner Brendan Gleeson — such as in the Amazon Prime original comedy, Frank of Ireland (which he and his brother, Brian, also co-created), and, most famously, the Harry Potter movies, as Bill Weasley.

Linda Emond (Candace Fortner)

Playing Sam’s devoted (and morally conflicted) mother, Candace, on The Patient is three-time Tony nominee Linda Emond, who made her screen acting debut in the 1989 fantasy drama, God’s Will. She later worked with Oscar nominee Ed Harris in the 2000 artist biopic Pollock, went on to share the screen with Oscar winners Robert De Niro and Frances McDormand in 2002’s City by the Sea, and, in 2005, starred alongside other Oscar darlings Jennifer Connelly (in Dark Water) and Charlize Theron (in North Country). Other Academy favorites she has worked with include Meryl Streep and Amy Adams in 2009’s Julie & Julia, Holly Hunter in The Big Sick, and Sandra Bullock in Netflix’s The Unforgivable.

Emond’s small screen presence can be traced back to guest appearances on hit series like L.A. Law in the early ‘90s and The Sopranos in 2000 — years before her recurring roles in the Gossip Girl cast as Headmistress Queller, on The Good Wife as Judge Leora Kuhn, and on The Blacklist as Dr. Adrian Shaw. She landed a starring role on AMC’s Lodge 49 and would later appear on Season 3 of HBO’s Succession as Michelle-Anne Vanderhoven. She most recently reprised her role on Law & Order: SVU as Dr. Emily Sopher, which is actually just one of several characters she has played on Dick Wolf’s crime procedural franchise.

Laura Niemi (Beth Strauss)

As Alan Strauss’ recently deceased wife, Beth, we have Laura Niemi, who made her screen acting debut in the 1999 rock drama, Born to Lose, which she followed by guest appearances on TV shows like Firefly, The Sopranos and Criminal Minds to name a few, as well as daytime soap operas like General Hospital, most recently. She also had notable recurring roles in the Justified cast and NBC’s This Is Us cast, and most recently appeared on the Stranger Things Season 4 premiere as Eleven’s high school teacher, Mrs. Gracey.

Other movies that Niemi is known for include director David Schwimmer’s star-studded 2010 drama, Trust, 2013’s Ashton Kutcher-led biopic, Jobs, as the tech mogul’s secretary, and the horror-comedy Chastity Bites from the same year. She starred alongside Anne Hathaway, Ben Affleck, and more in Netflix’s The Last Thing He Wanted in 2020, and opposite Angelina Jolie in Taylor Sheridan’s Those Who Want Me Dead the following year.

Andrew Leeds (Ezra Strauss)

As Alan’s estranged son, Ezra, we have Andrew Leeds, who previously worked with Steve Carell when he appeared on the pilot of The Morning Show and previously worked in an FX original when he landed guest appearances on Nip/Tuck and Dirt in the early 2000s, and American Horror Story and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia in later years. The actor’s more notable TV credits include his recurring roles on the likes of Bones and Barry, and starring roles on ABC’s short-lived sitcom Cristela and NBC’s also prematurely cancelled, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, and its holiday special from 2021.

Leeds landed his first credited feature film role at 14 with 1995’s Major Payne (starring Damon Wayans in the title role) after making his uncredited film debut opposite Michael J. Fox in 1993’s Life with Mikey. He has since appeared in 2015’s Entourage as a casting agent and in the funny holiday comedy Office Christmas Party as a douchebag tech engineer, which are, just about, his most prominent film credits to date.

David Alan Grier (Charlie Addison)

Steve Carell is not the only The Patient cast member with a background in comedy as David Alan Grier also stars as Alan’s own former mentor and therapist, Charlie. However, this is not the former In Living Color cast member’s first try at drama, having played an abusive stepfather in the classic horror-anthology movie Tales from the Hood, a cop dealing with some wild phenomena in 1995’s Jumanji, a hospital record-keeper in Netflx’s A Series of Unfortunate Events adaptation, and recurring roles on creator Ava DuVernay’s OWN original Queen Sugar and Spectrum’s Neo-Western series,  Joe Pickett, most recently.

The actor’s other greatest hits in the world of comedy include 1988’s Blaxploitation parody I’m Gonna Git You Sucka, Boomerang with Eddie Murphy, the Craig Robinson-led Peeples from 2013, and Netflix’s Coffee and Kareem, which just covers some of his best-known big screen credits. Some might recognize Grier better from TV credits like The Carmichael Show as Jerrod Carmichael’s on-screen father, Netflix’s Dad Stop Embarrassing Me as Jamie Foxx’s on-screen father, Fox’s short-lived series The Cool Kids, and two feature-length Wizard of Oz adaptations (2005’s The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz and The Wiz Live! in 2015).

Try not to lose your mind over how good The Patient cast is when you start watching it on FX. You can also stream the new thriller with a Hulu subscription.

There are actors who play protagonists we just can’t help but root for, and there are others who are so effective as villains we just can’t help but root against. And then there those like Domhnall Gleeson, who can, at one moment, portray characters like a hopelessly romantic time-traveler in About Time and then go on to take on the role of the ruthless First Order officer, General Hux, in the Star Wars universe. 

Gleeson has proven time and time again that he is capable of giving dynamic performances in a variety of roles. And, since we love exploring actors and their best screen appearances, this seems like a golden opportunity to look at some of the Domhnall Gleeson’s best movies. 

About Time (2013)

On his 21st birthday, Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) learns of a life-changing secret: the men in his family can travel back in time and relive major moments from their past. But, it isn't all fun and games, as there are some major rules as well as consequences if they are broken.

What makes Richard Curtis’ 2013 romantic comedy About Time such a gem of a movie is Domhnall Gleeson’s approach to the everyman character. He is charming, believable, and just easy to root for in his quest to find the secret to love, life, and happiness. It also helps this movie play out like an emotional thrill ride.

Stream About Time on Starz.
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Ex Machina (2015)

After winning a contest to spend a weekend at the estate of eccentric CEO Nathan Bateman (Oscar Isaac), programmer Caleb Smith (Domhnall Gleeson) realizes that things aren’t as they seem with his boss' latest experiment.

Alex Garland, who previously worked as a screenwriter, made his directorial debut with the 2015 sci-fi thriller, Ex Machina. Gleeson, once again playing the everyman, is absolutely brilliant in his conversations with Ava (Alicia Vikander in one of her best roles), an advanced android whose capabilities defy logic and reason.

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Brooklyn (2015)

After coming to America seeking a better life, Irish immigrant Ellis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan) is forced to return home, resulting in a life-changing decision where there are no real winners or losers.

One of four critically-acclaimed movies starring Domhnall Gleeson to come out in 2015, John Crowley’s Brooklyn is right up there with any of Gleeson’s other roles. His portrayal of Jim Farrell, the warm, soft, and charming suitor waiting for Ellis back home is often overlooked but should be near the top of the list.

Rent/Buy Brooklyn on Amazon.
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The Revenant (2015)

Frontiersman Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) is attacked by a grizzly bear in the Dakotas and left for dead by trapper John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy), setting off an emotional and painful rebirth story where the hero is motivated by revenge.

Alejandro Iñárritu’s 2015 epic, The Revenant, is mostly remembered for the tremendous performances by DiCaprio (who won his first Oscar) and Hardy, but the supporting cast is just as remarkable. Such is the case for Domhnall Gleeson, who is absolutely perfect in the role of the group's leader, Andrew Henry.

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Frank (2014)

After essentially lying his way into an up-and-coming band on the cusp of fame and fortune, Jon Burroughs (Domhnall Gleeson) finds himself forming an unusual bond with the group’s lead singer, a mysterious man by the name of Frank (Michael Fassbender) who is never seen without a large papier-mâché mask covering his head.

One of the A24 movies streaming for free on Plex, Lenny Abrahamson’s 2014 comedy, Frank, is also one of the most interesting of the bunch, and of Gleeson’s career. The way in which Gleeson carries himself in this quirky feature is something else and again shows the complexity of his range as an actor.

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True Grit (2010)

Following her father's death, 14-year-old Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld) decides to pursue his killer, Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin).

The Coen Brothers’ 2010 remake of True Grit is one of the best westerns of the modern era, and like the great westerns of yesteryear, it has an incredible cast. Domhnall Gleeson is among the greats with his portrayal of an ill-fated outlaw who has a change of heart a little too late, and steals the show whenever on screen.

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Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows — Parts 1 And 2 (2010 - 2011)

The final two installments in the Harry Potter movie franchise go out with a bang as “The Boy Who Lived” (Daniel Radcliffe) takes on Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) to protect Hogwarts (and the world) from utter destruction, no matter the cost.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, which was split into two movies, sees heroes and villains of the Wizarding World in a final showdown, including the eldest Weasley brother, Will (Domhnall Gleeson). Though not one one of main players in the story, it’s always nice to see Gleeson’s character swoop in with a helping hand.

Stream Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 1 on HBO Max.
Stream Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2 on HBO Max.

Rent/Buy Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 1 on Amazon.
Rent/Buy Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2 on Amazon.
Get the Harry Potter 8-Movie Collection on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens (2015)

Years after the Battle of Endor, the Galactic Empire’s successor — the First Order — makes its presence known just as a new hope rises from the wastelands of a desert planet, starting her own hero’s journey.

People like to harp on Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens, but one thing that can’t be denied is Domhnall Gleeson’s portrayal of the iron-fisted First Order officer, General Hux, with his terrifying yet commanding speech on Starkiller Base being nothing short of brilliant.

Stream Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens on Disney+.
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American Made (2017)

Renegade pilot Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) gets the job of a lifetime when he is recruited by the CIA to fly in a dangerous mission that leads to a whole mess of trouble.

Doug Liman’s 2017 biographical action drama, American Made, features one of the most unhinged Tom Cruise characters while also one of the more dangerous performances by Domhnall Gleeson. The actor is astounding as Seal’s CIA handler, who will do anything to help the agency and the country.

Rent/Buy American Made on Amazon.
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Calvary (2014)

After receiving the confession of an unknown man who says he will kill him in seven days, Father James (Brendan Gleeson) spends what could be the final week of his life contemplating his life and the threat while also going about his normal business.

One of the most startling scenes in John Michael McDonagh’s 2014 drama, Calvary, comes when the priest meets with Freddie Joyce (Domhnall Gleeson), a killer who cannot recall where he left his last victim. The younger Gleeson is remarkable in his portrayal of an unhinged cannibal, so much so he feels like a three-dimensional human being as opposed to a character on screen.

Rent/Buy Calvary on Amazon.
Get it on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Even though we’ve talked about 10 great movies, this barely scratches the surface of Domhnall Gleeson’s body of work, and doesn’t include some of his great shows like Black Mirror, Run, or Catastrophe. And, then there’s the 2022 TV schedule entry, The Patient, that looks incredibly promising.

Every once in a while, celebrity siblings - such as Ben and Casey Affleck or Dakota and Elle Fanning - end up sharing the screen together. Well, apparently it happens a little more often than just every once in a while, given the amount of examples we compiled below.

Jake And Maggie Gyllenhaal (A Dangerous Woman, Homegrown, Donnie Darko)

Oscar nominee Jake Gyllenhaal and his twice-nominated older sister, Maggie, are in three movies together: 1993’s A Dangerous Woman, 1998’s Homegrown (both were directed by their father, Stephen), and the eventual sci-fi cult classic, Donnie Darko, in 2001.

Jeff And Beau Bridges (The Fabulous Baker Boys)

Oscar winner Jeff Bridges and his older brother, Beau, also played siblings in The Fabulous Baker Boys - a 1989 comedy in which the titular musicians become rivals after teaming up with a beautiful aspiring singer (Michelle Pfieffer).

Kate And Rooney Mara (Urban Legends: Bloody Mary)

Kate Mara of the House of Cards cast led the 2005 straight-to-video slasher, Urban Legends: Bloody Mary, in which her younger sister, Nightmare Alley’s Rooney Mara, made her acting debut.

Sean And Chris Penn (At Close Range)

Future two-time Oscar-winner Sean Penn and his late younger brother, Chris (best known from the Reservoir Dogs cast) played siblings in the 1986 crime thriller, At Close Range, starring Christopher Walken as their criminal father.

Andrew, Owen, And Luke Wilson (Bottle Rocket, The Royal Tenenbaums) 

Owen Wilson and his younger sibling, Luke have also acted alongside their eldest brother, Andrew, in 1996’s Bottle Rocket and The Royal Tenenbaums from 2001 - both of which Owen also co-wrote with director Wes Anderson.

Chris And Luke Hemsworth (Thor: Ragnarok)

Chris Hemsworth has yet to star in anything with his little bro, Liam, but the Australian Marvel movie star’s older bother, Westworld star Luke, did show up in Thor: Ragnarok as a dramatized version of the God of Thunder, whom he is set to reprise (along with Matt Damon as “Actor Loki”) in Thor: Love and Thunder.

Dylan And Cole Sprouse (Various)

Twin brothers Dylan and Cole Sprouse (the latter of which went on to join the Riverdale cast) have shared the same role in several TV shows (most notably Grace Under Fire) and movies (such as Big Daddy with Adam Sandler) and have played siblings just as often, most famously as the title characters of The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, its spin-off The Suite Life on Deck, and 2011’s The Suite Life Movie.

Tia, Tamera, And Tahj Mowry  (Sister, Sister, Smart Guy, Seventeen Again)

Twin sisters Tia and Tamera Mowry have shared the screen with their little brother, Tahj, several times - most notably as guest stars on each other’s respective sitcoms, Sister, Sister and Smart Guy, and in the 2000 Showtime original movie, Seventeen Again.

James And Dave Franco (The Disaster Artist)

After years finding success in the business in separate projects, James Franco and his younger brother, Dave, played Tommy Wiseau and Greg Sestero of the infamous cult favorite, The Room, in the 2017 biopic, The Disaster Artist.

Hilary And Haylie Duff (Various)

Haylie Duff would appear on three episodes of her younger sister, Hilary’s, Disney Channel show, Lizzie McGuire, and provided the singing voice of Isabella Parigi in the theatrical spin-off before they both played a singing group on an episode of American Dreams, sisters in the 2006 rags-to-riches story Material Girls, and both leant their voices to the infamous animated movie Foodfight!, which was released in 2012.

Aly And AJ Michalka (Various)

Singer-songwriter duo Aly and AJ Michalka first shared the screen in the 2006 Disney Channel original movie Cow Belles as sisters, again in the MTV original Super Sweet 16: The Movie the next year as rivals, followed by three episodes of Aly’s CW series Hellcats in 2011 as half-sisters. Most recently, they appeared in the 2015 drama, Weepah Way For Now, as what appear to be fictionalized versions of themselves.

Dakota And Elle Fanning (I Am Sam, Taken)

Elle Fanning has portrayed a younger version of her older sister, Dakota, on two separate occasions: first in the 2001 drama I Am Sam and secondly in the Steven Spielberg-produced, Syfy original miniseries, Taken, in 2002.

Spencer And Abigail Breslin (Various)

Academy Award nominee Abigail and her older brother, Spencer, played siblings in both Raising Helen and The Princess Diaries 2: A Royal Engagement in 2004, played elves in The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause in 2006, and later played cousins in the 2014 crime drama, Perfect Sisters.

Jason And Justine Bateman (Arrested Development)

Justine Bateman played her real-life brother, Jason's, sibling in the 1986 TV movie Can You Feel Me Dancing? and a sex worker whom Jason’s Michael Bluth mistakes for his long-lost sibling on Arrested Development.

John, Joan, Ann, And Bill Cusack (Grosse Pointe Blank)

While beloved star John Cusack and his Academy-nominated sister, Joan, have appeared in more films together than most celebrity siblings can claim (including Say Anything… and High Fidelity), the only screen credit that they also share with both their sister, Ann, and brother, Bill, is 1997’s Grosse Pointe Blank, which John also co-wrote and produced.

Bill And Brian Doyle Murray (Various) 

Bill Murray and his older brother, Brian, are both Saturday Night Live veterans (although at different times) and have several classic movies in common - including Caddyshack, Scrooged, Ghostbusters II, Groundhog Day, and The Razor's Edge.

Ben And Casey Affleck (Good Will Hunting, Chasing Amy)

Years before casting him in his amazing directorial debut, Gone Baby Gone, Ben Affleck shared the screen with his younger brother and fellow Oscar winner, Casey, in Good Will Hunting (which Ben co-wrote with Matt Damon) and Kevin Smith’s Chasing Amy in 1997.

Macaulay And Kieran Culkin (Home Alone, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York)

Kieran Culkin (now more famous than ever since starring on HBO’s Succession) made his acting debut alongside his older brother (child megastar Macaulay Culkin) in 1990’s Home Alone cast as his cousin, Fuller - a role he would also reprise in the 1992 sequel.

Rory And Kieran Culkin (Igby Goes Down)

In addition to playing Macaulay’s younger self in Richie Rich, the youngest Culkin brother, Rory, also played a younger version of Kieran as the title role in 2002's Igby Goes Down.

The Wayans Siblings (Various) 

Where do we start with the Wayans Siblings? Well, for instance, several of them (such as Damon and Kim Wayans) were a part of the In Living Color cast with star and creator Keenen Ivory Wayans, who later directed his younger brothers, Marlon and Shawn, in movies like White Chicks, the first two Scary Movie installments, and Little Man.

Zooey And Emily Deschanel (Bones)

In Season 5 of Bones, star Emily Deschanel’s sister (Zooey of the Elf cast fame and later the lead of the New Girl cast) guest starred as Temperance Brennan’s second cousin, Margaret Whitesell.

Fred And Ben Savage (Little Monsters, The Wonder Years, Boy Meets World)

After playing siblings in the family-friendly horror film, Little Monsters, in 1989, Ben Savage made a guest appearance on his older brother, Fred’s, hit dramedy, The Wonder Years, in 1990 and later returned the favor by inviting him to the Boy Meets World cast for an episode in 1998.

Charlie Sheen And Emilio Estevez (Various)

After making several movies together - including Young Guns, Men At Work, and Rated X (the latter two of which Emilio Estevez directed), Charlie Sheen (née Carlos Estevez) reunited with his brother on an episode of his hit sitcom, Two and a Half Men, in 2008.

Vanessa and Laura Marano (Saving Zoë)

Both of these talented ladies had guest appearances on Dexter at different times in the series’ run, but Vanessa Marano and her younger sister, Laura, did appear together in the 2019 mystery, Saving Zoë, as siblings torn apart by one’s unsolved murder.

Nat And Alex Wolff (The Naked Brothers Band, Mr. Troop Mom, Stella’s Last Weekend)

Hereditary’s Alex Wolff and his older brother, Peacock’s Joe vs. Carole cast member Nat Wolff, both debuted as fictionalized versions of themselves in Nickelodeon’s faux rockumentary, The Naked Brothers Band, its series continuation, and the 2009 TV movie Mr. Troop Mom before reuniting in 2018’s Stella’s Last Weekend, which was written and directed by their mother, Polly Draper.

Vera And Taissa Farmiga (Higher Ground, At Middleton, The Nun)

Scream Queens Vera and Taissa Farmiga, who are often mistaken for mother and daughter, played mother and daughter in 2013’s At Middleton after Taissa previously played her older sister’s younger self in Vera’s 2011 directorial debut, Higher Ground. However, interestingly, their characters in the 2018 Conjuring spin-off, The Nun, have no apparent familial ties.

Maude And Iris Apatow (Knocked Up, This Is 40, Funny People)

Euphoria’s Maude Apatow and her younger sister, Iris, have played siblings in 2007’s Knocked Up, its “sort-of sequel” This is 40 from 2012, and 2009’s Funny People - all three of which also starred their real mother, Leslie Mann, as their mother, and were written and directed by their father, Judd Apatow.

Dan And Sarah Levy (Schitt’s Creek)

While Annie Murphy plays co-creator Dan Levy’s on-screen sister in the Schitt’s Creek cast, Café Tropical owner, Twyla Sands, is played by his real-life sister, Sarah.

Mary-Kate, Ashley, And Elizabeth Olsen (How The West Was Fun)

After Full House made the Olsen Twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley, household names and  before the Marvel movies made their younger sister, Elizabeth, an A-lister, all three of them appeared together in the ABC original TV movie How the West Was Fun in 1994.

Bill And Alexander Skarsgård (White Water Fury)

Years before his terrifying performance as Pennywise in It, Bill Skarsgård made his acting debut alongside his older brother, True Blood cast member Alexander, in the 2000 Swedish thriller, White Water Fury.

Blake And Robyn Lively (Simon Says)

Robyn Lively, star of 1989’s Teen Witch, shared the screen with her then up-and-coming half-sister, former Gossip Girl cast member Blake Lively, in a 2006 slasher flick called Simon Says, which also stars fellow ‘80s icon Crispin Glover.

Brian And Domhnall Gleeson (Mother!, Frank Of Ireland)

Despite plenty of years of experience between the them, it was not until 2017 when Star Wars star Domnhall Gleeson and his younger brother, Brian, shared the screen in Mother! before reuniting as co-creators and co-stars of the Amazon Prime original comedy Frank of Ireland - also starring their father, Brendan Gleeson.

Eddie And Charlie Murphy (Harlem Nights, Norbit)

Comedy icon Eddie Murphy worked behind the scenes a lot with his older brother, Charlie, who passed away in 2017, but the two would also share a few acting credits, - namely Eddie’s 1989 directorial debut Harlem Nights (also Charlie’s first movie), and in 2006’s Norbit, in which Charlie voiced a dog named Floyd.

Phylicia Rashad And Debbie Allen (The Cosby Show, Grey’s Anatomy, The Old Settler)

Phylicia Rashad and her younger sister, Emmy-winning dance legend Debbie Allen, have made guest appearances on each other’s shows - The Cosby Show, on which Rashad played Claire Huxtable, and Grey’s Anatomy, on which Allen plays Dr. Catherine Fox (née Avery) - and both starred in a 2001 TV movie called The Old Settler, which Allen also directed.

Ron And Clint Howard (Various) 

You can find Clint Howard in just about every movie directed by his brother, Ron Howard - including his feature-length directorial debut from 1977, Grand Theft Auto, which was also the brothers’ third time acting alongside each other after the 1963 film The Courtship of Eddie’s Father and a handful of episodes of The Andy Griffith Show.

Angelina Jolie And James Haven (Gia, Hell’s Kitchen, Original Sin)

Audiences probably remember Angelina Jolie’s brother, James Haven, better for other reasons than all the times he shared the screen with his younger sister - namely Gia and Hell’s Kitchen from 1998, and 2001’s Original Sin.

Jared And Shannon Leto (Various)

In addition to being bandmates with his young brother, Oscar winner Jared Leto, in 30 Seconds to Mars, Shannon Leto also shared the screen with him on a couple of episodes of My So-Called Life (on which Jared played the iconic Jordan Catalano) and through brief appearances in the movies Prefontaine from 1997, 1998’s Highway, and Sol Goode in 2003.

Chris And Scott Evans (Before We Go, Playing It Cool)

Former Captain America actor Chris Evans has a brother named Scott who has also appeared in two romantic-comedies from 2014 with his older sibling, called Before We Go (which Chris also directed) and Playing It Cool.

Sarah And Laura Silverman (The Sarah Silverman Program, Bob’s Burgers, Masters Of Sex)

Comedian and actress Sarah Silverman and her sister, Laura, played heavily fictionalized versions of themselves as series regulars on The Sarah Silverman Program, made guest appearances on Showtime’s Masters of Sex together, and have recurred on Bob’s Burgers as Jimmy Pesto’s twin sons, Andy and Ollie.

Kevin, Nick, And Joe Jonas (Camp Rock Movies, Jonas)

Back when they were the biggest thing to come out of Disney Channel, Kevin, Nick, and Joe Jonas played three brothers in a band not named the Jonas Brothers in the Camp Rock movies, and later played themselves to more comedic effect in their own sitcom, aptly titled Jonas.

Looks like talent really does run in the family.

The craft of acting sometimes demands that its participants go to some extreme places, all in the name of a performance. Whether it’s a dramatic and sweeping film or a family-friendly blockbuster like Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway, that same rule applies, and the results can sometimes be quite extreme. Take, for example, the fact that Domhnall Gleeson and Rose Byrne shared a scene in their new sequel where, according to Gleeson, Ms. Byrne went so hard that she almost got electrocuted.

Believe it or not, that story is actually true! I learned all about this potentially dangerous moment as, during our Peter Rabbit 2 interview, I was able to speak with both Rose Byrne and Domnhall Gleeson about their roles in the latest Beatrix Potter-based adventure. When I had asked them if there was a moment that they truly lost themselves in the process of making the movie, Mr. Gleeson shared the following:

If you’ve seen Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway, or even if you’ve merely glimpsed the trailers, this moment was set to take place during the big train ride taken by Thomas and Bea MacGregor, as well as Peter Rabbit and his family. As they’re making their way to a big meeting that will see Rose Byrne’s Bea striking a big deal with an ambitious publisher, played by David Oyelowo, a bowl full of jelly beans go to Cottontail’s head. Cue the gigantic sugar rush for the green-sweatered bunny that leads to her proclaiming that she’ll live forever; as you’ll see in the trailer for the film below:

Apparently that wasn’t the only madness that was supposed to take place on that train, as Domhnall Gleeson has now revealed at least one deleted scene that could be included with Peter Rabbit 2’s home release. Perhaps in the same spirit of improv that saw both James Corden and Elizabeth Debicki adding on to their animated characters, Rose Byrne seized the moment and tried to steal an antique lighting fixture from a really nice train set. It’s a good thing she failed too, as success in this case would have literally been shocking.

Obviously everyone’s health and safety is important when making a movie, but when the muse strikes, you sometimes have to walk that line. Also, if you look at the lighting on the train in that part of the trailer, it looks like it would have taken a lot of force to even get anywhere with stealing such an object. Thankfully, everyone went home unscathed, and Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway didn’t involve any mayhem that couldn’t be handled. Still, this is a moment too good not to wind up on the blooper reel in the future.

That time hasn’t come just yet though, as Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway is still in theaters and there’s no blooper reel to speak of attached to the finished film. And if you’ve already seen this particular movie, then you’ll probably want to check out the 2021 release schedule. There’s plenty of adrenaline-filled thrills waiting for you throughout the year, and who knows what other fantastic stunts will rank in as part of this year’s best action scenes, with or without the participation of rabbits.

Finally hopping its way into theaters after several COVID-related delays, Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway will bring Beatrix Potter's most beloved character back to the big screen. Likewise, James Corden will also return to voice the titular bunny. Once again starring Domhnall Gleeson and Rose Byrne and featuring the returning voice talents of Margot Robbie, Elizabeth Debicki, and Sia, this live-action/animated sequel includes some new faces and voices this time around — many of whom you'll recognize, including David Oyelowo. If you're wondering where you've seen/heard the Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway cast before, we're here to help!

Domhnall Gleeson (Thomas McGregor/Mr. Jeremy Fisher)

Reprising his role as Thomas McGregor, Domhnall Gleeson returns to play the male lead in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. He also voices Mr. Jeremy Fisher. First gaining notice for playing Bill Weasley in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and 2, Gleeson became a Tony-nominated actor for his 2006 Broadway performance in The Lieutenant of Inishmore. Later, the actor starred in Ex Machina, About Time, Frank, Goodbye Christopher Robin, Crash Pad, and The Little Stranger. Also, Gleeson played General Armitage Hux in the Star Wars movies. His other film credits include Brooklyn, The Revenant, A Futile and Stupid Gesture, Never Let Me Go, True Grit, Anna Karenina, Dredd, Calvary, Unbroken, and mother!

Additionally, on television, Domhnall Gleeson starred in HBO's Run last year. Most recently, the actor appeared in BBC 4's Frank of Ireland, which he co-created with his brother, Brian Gleeson, who plays the titular Frank. His other TV credits include Catastrophe, Your Bad Self, and When Harvey Met Bob. Currently, Gleeson is filming a role in HBO's The White House Plumbers.

Rose Byrne (Bea McGregor/Jemima Puddle-Duck)

In the part of Bea McGregor, Rose Byrne returns to play the female lead in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. She also lends her voice to the role of Jemima Puddle-Duck. Following her lead performance in The Goddess of 1967, Byrne transitioned into Hollywood with Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones. She found success through her Emmy-nominated part in FX's Damages and her standout supporting turn in Bridesmaids.

From there, Rose Byrne starred in the Insidious movies, the Neighbors movies, I Give It A Year, Adult Beginners, The Meddler, Juliet Naked, and Instant Family. Her other film credits include X-Men: First Class and Apocalypse, Knowing, 28 Weeks Later, Marie Antoinette, Tory, Wicker Park, Get Him to the Greek, The Place Beyond the Pines, This Is Where I Leave You, Annie (2014), and Spy. As a voice actress, Byrne is heard in I Am Mother and Jexi. Last year, the actress starred in Like a Boss and Irresistible. On TV, Byrne appeared in FX's Miss America. Later this year, she'll star in Apple TV+'s Physical.

James Corden (Peter Rabbit)

As our titular hare, James Corden returns to the voice booth to bring the animated Peter Rabbit to life once more. Better known as the host of The Late Late Show with James Corden, the actor found fame through starring/co-writing BBC's Gavin & Stacey, for which he won a BAFTA. He also won a Tony for his Broadway performance in One Man, Two Guvnors. Prior to this stage work, Corden received acclaim for his performance as Timms in The History Boys. He reprised this role for the 2006 film version. His other notable film credits include Into the Woods, Begin Again, Ocean's 8, Cats, Kill Your Friends, Gulliver's Travels, Starter for 10, and The Three Musketeers. Most recently, Corden had a Golden Globe-nominated supporting turn in The Prom.

As a voice actor, additionally, James Corden is heard in The Emoji Movie, Smallfoot, Trolls, Planet 51, and the English dub of Animals United. He also lent his voice to the UK version of Norm of the North. Last year, Corden was heard in Superintelligence and Trolls World Tour.

David Oyelowo (Nigel Basil-Jones)

Playing the dastardly Nigel Basil-Jones, David Oyelowo is the human antagonist in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. Rising to prominence through his commanding lead performance as Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, Oyelowo was Emmy-nominated that same year for his central role in HBO's Nightingale. His other lead performances include A United Kingdom, Queen of Katwe, Gringo, Don't Let Go, Five Nights in Maine, Middle of Nowhere, and Who Do You Love? His other notable film credits include Lee Daniels' The Butler, Jack Reacher, Lincoln, A Most Violent Year, Interstellar, A Wrinkle in Time, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, The Last King of Scotland, The Help, The Cloverfield Paradox, and Red Tails. Last year, he appeared in Come Away and The Midnight Sky. This year, Oyelowo provided supporting turns in Chaos Walking and The Water Man, which served as his directorial debut.

Additionally, on television, David Oyelowo appeared in Les Miserables, Five Days, and the upcoming The Girl Before. As a voice actor, Oyelowo can be heard in The Lion Guard and Star Wars Rebels.

Margot Robbie (Flopsy Rabbit)

As the voice of Flopsy Rabbit, as well as the narrator of this tale, Margot Robbie returns to the voice booth for Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. A rising superstar following her scene-stealing supporting turn in Martin Scorsese's The Wolf of Wall Street, Robbie received her first Oscar nomination for her lead performance in I, Tonya. Later, she starred in Suicide Squad, Focus, Mary Queen of Scots, Focus, Terminal, The Legend of Tarzan, Z For Zachariah, and Once Upon A Time In Hollywood. She received her second Oscar nomination for her supporting turn in Bombshell. Her other notable film credits include Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, About Time, Goodbye Christopher Robin, and The Big Short.

Furthermore, on TV, Margot Robbie played Donna Freedman in over 300 episodes of the Australian series Neighbours. She also starred in ABC's Pan Am. Last year, Robbie reprised her role as Harley Quinn in Birds of Prey, which she produced. She also starred in and produced last year's Dreamland. Outside of acting, Robbie produced Promising Young Woman. Next, she'll star in The Suicide Squad and David O. Russell's new film.

Elizabeth Debicki (Mopsy Rabbit)

Returning to the role of Mopsy Rabbit, Elizabeth Debicki provides another supporting vocal performance in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. Following her breakout role in The Great Gatsby, Debicki turned heads through her standout performances in The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Widows, and Macbeth (2015). The actress received more notice through her roles in Showcase's The Kettering Incident and BBC One/AMC's The Night Manager. Prior to these acting turns, Debicki gave an award-nominated performance in Sydney Theatre's stage production of The Maids.

From there, Elizabeth Debicki had a starring role as Virginia Woolf in Vita & Virginia. Last year, Debicki starred in The Burnt Orange Heresy and impressed in Christopher Nolan's Tenet. Her other film credits include A Few Best Men, Everest, Breath, The Cloverfield Paradox, and The Tale. She also lent her voice to Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. Next, Debicki plays Princess Diana in The Crown Seasons 5 and 6.

Aimee Horne (Cottontail Rabbit)

Filling in for Daisy Ridley, who lent her voice in 2018's Peter Rabbit, Aimee Horne receives one of her most high-profile film acting roles yet in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. Most notably, the actress received notice and acclaim for her stage work, notably for her touring role as Polly in Fawlty Towers Live. Prior to this vocal performance, Horne played Ms. Woodcock in Burning Man. She also provided a supporting turn in Love is Now. Additionally, the actress starred in short films like 2010's The Filmmaker and the upcoming The Playlist. Furthermore, Horne can be heard in 2014's Raker. Outside of film, Horne had guest star appearances in Winter and Psychotown. As a voice actress, she has done a large volume of voiceover work.

Hayley Atwell (Mittens)

Joining the voice ensemble for Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway is Hayley Atwell as Mittens. Receiving her breakout role in The Duchess, for which she was BAFTA-nominated, Atwell was Golden Globe-nominated for her lead performance in Starz's The Pillars of the Earth. Shortly thereafter, she found more prominence when she played Peggy Carter in Captain America: The First Avenger. She reprised this role in ABC's Agent Carter, as well as Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, and Avengers: Endgame. Her other film credits include Testament of Youth, Cinderella (2015), Christopher Robin, Blinded by the Light, Jimi: All Is By My Side, Brideshead Revisited, and Cassandra's Dream. Next, Atwell will star in Mission: Impossible 7.

Outside of film, Hayley Atwell led ABC's Conviction and BBC One's Howards End and The Long Song. She also voices a main character in Netflix's 3Below: Tales of Arcadia. Additionally, Atwell is seen in Black Mirror and Any Human Heart. Away from acting, the actress hosts the spy podcast, True Spies.

Sia (Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle)

Similar to the first movie, Sia lends her voice to the role of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. Best known as the chart-topping artist behind "Chandelier" and "Cheap Thrills," the musician-turned-actress is heard in a couple of animated movies, including My Little Pony: The Movie and Charming, along with the original Peter Rabbit. She also narrated the 2018 documentary, Dominion. Also, Sia provided cameos in Annie (2014) and Piccadilly Jim. On TV, additionally, Sia can be seen in Nobodies and Home and Away and heard in South Park, Transparent, and Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?

Outside of acting, Sia made her feature screenwriting and directorial debut with this year's controversial Music. She also wrote original music for the soundtrack of 2018's Vox Lux. Her music can also be heard in Zootopia, The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, Dumplin', Pitch Perfect 2, Fifty Shades of Grey, The Great Gatsby, Finding Dory, Dolittle, Fifty Shades Freed, Lion, Star Trek Beyond, and Wonder Woman, to name only a few movies.

Lennie James (Barnabas)

In the role of Barnabas, Lennie James joins the voice cast of Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway in a supporting turn. Most notably, James is known for playing Morgan Jones in AMC's The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead. He also played the mysterious Robert Hawkins in CBS's Jericho. Additionally, James is the creator, writer, and lead actor behind Sky Atlantic's Save Me.

Furthermore, Lennie James wrote and starred in Storm Damage, resulting in a BAFTA nomination for the TV actor. His other notable TV credits include Low Winter Sun, Line of Duty, Hung, and Out of the Blue. Most recently, James lent his voice to Amazon Prime's Invincible. Additionally, in film, James can be seen in Blade Runner 2049, The Next Three Days, Get On Up, Sahara, 24 Hour Party People, Snatch, and Lost in Space.

Damon Herriman (Tom Kitten)

Also joining the vocal ensemble of Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway is Damon Herriman, who lends his voice to the role of Tom Kitten. Best known for his portrayal of Dewey Crowe in FX's Justified, Herriman gained notice for his striking portrayals of Charles Manson in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time In Hollywood and Netflix's Mindhunter. He also starred in the title role of Punch in 2020's Judy and Punch. His other notable film credits include J. Edgar, The Nightingale, The Lone Ranger, The Water Diviner, Son of a Gun, Son of the Mask, Candy, Redbelt, House of Wax, and 100 Bloody Acres. Earlier this year, Herriman was heard in the role of Kabal in Mortal Kombat.

Additionally, on television, Damon Herriman plays a main role in FX's Mr. Inbetween. He's also in the main cast of Epix's Perpetual Grace, LTD and Showcase's Lambs of God. Earlier this year, Herriman appeared in BBC's The Serpent. The actor's other television credits include Battle Creek, Squinters, Incorporated, and The Commons.

Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway is in theaters now.

The Star Wars Sequel trilogy introduced a plethora of new characters to the galaxy far, far away, such as the powerful, young Jedi Rey and the Dark Side-fueled Kylo Ren (Ben Solo). Among these new faces was also General Hux, who was introduced as Ren’s right-hand within the First Order. Domhnall Gleeson’s slippery character had his moments, but one can’t help but think that more could have been done with the character. Gleeson seems to have enjoyed his time as the character, but it sounds like he’d love to learn more about him.

Domhnall Gleeson stated his belief that there are still plenty of aspects of General Hux to explore. He also discussed how the filmmakers managed to keep the character fresh for him as the Star Wars trilogy continued:

If there’s anything that can be said about General Hux, it’s that his character arc did take a number of turns during those three films. The Force Awakens portrayed him as a staunch dictator, while The Last Jedi showed him to be more of a power-hungry and slimy madman. With this, many were likely shocked when J.J. Abrams turned him into a Resistance spy for The Rise of Skywalker. As Domhnall Gleeson revealed to Collider, this development took even him by surprise.

General Hux actually could have suffered a somewhat different fate had director Colin Trevorrow remained in the director’s chair for Rise of Skywalker. In his film, Hux would have still died on screen, though he would have taken his own life. It goes without saying that Abrams’ movie has received its fair share of criticism, with even Domhnall Gleeson admitting that he would have loved for his character to have played a bigger role. However, the actor believes “the film is what the film needed to be” and he trusts Abrams as a creative.

Although General Hux met his fate in that third film, there’s still plenty of room to explore more of him in the future. The character could be revived for a prequel film or TV series set before the events of The Force Awakens. And of course, Star Wars literature could also help fill in the blanks of his mysterious past.

In my humble opinion, Domhnall Gleeson is one of the most underrated actors in Hollywood at the moment, and he played the role of Hux to the best of his ability. It would honestly be nice to see him get another chance to portray the character. Nothing seems to be on the horizon at the moment but, if Star Wars has taught us anything, it’s that no one’s ever truly gone.

You can check out Domhnall Gleeson’s work as General Hux by streaming the Star Wars Sequel Trilogy on Disney+.

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No films in recent memory have been as contentious, while also being as successful as the newest Star Wars trilogy. A year and a half after the final film in the new series, fans can still be set off when discussing it. Some loved Star Wars: The Last Jedi and others did not. Some were satisfied with The Rise of Skywalker, while others were disappointed. Those unhappy sometimes place blame on the filmmakers of each movie, while others blame external forces or the studio for missteps. One person not jumping on that bandwagon is Domhnall Gleeson, who played General Hux in the last three Star Wars movies. He claims that The Rise of Skywalker is exactly the movie it needed to be.

A number of moviegoers didn't love Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. The film made a lot of decisions that were somewhat unpopular with fans, but Domhnall Gleeson tells Indiewire that those decisions had to be made in order to keep the movie from being too long. Plus, he agrees with the decisions that were made overall. According to Gleeson,

Exactly what the problems were with The Rise of Skywalker or who is to blame for them, depends largely on your opinion of the previous film. Episode IX arguably walks back decisions from The Last Jedi, so if you didn't like the revelation that Rey's parentage was irrelevant, then the next film's new revelation that Rey was a Palpatine by blood is a good choice. If you liked the introduction of Rose Tico in The Last Jedi, then seeing her sidelined in Rise of Skywalker is unfortunate. Clearly there's much to discuss.

The Skywalker Saga is currently available on Disney+. You can use this link to sign up for the streaming service.

Another character who was largely sidelined in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker was Domhnall Gleeson's own character, General Hux. Hux is somewhat surprisingly, and unceremoniously killed off in the movie. And while one would understand if Gleeson had an issue with that decision, he seems to feel it was the right choice, even he certainly would not have been against being a bigger part of the movie. Gleeson went on,

This certainly won't be the last word on the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Fans are still arguing over the relative merits of the prequels, and so we can expect this fight will continue.

It is interesting to think about how far Robert Pattinson has come in his career, with his current project being the lead in Matt Reeves’ The Batman. He is most often associated with breaking out in the Twilight franchise, but his major motion picture debut actually came from playing Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Thus, Robert Pattinson remains one of the few cast members of the Harry Potter franchise to eventually transition into superhero movies.

While Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) eventually landed a recurring role on CW’s The Flash as a character possessed by a villainous entity (because what else?) and Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort) voiced Alfred Pennyworth in The LEGO Batman Movie, we still have yet to see an alum of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry actually don a cape in a more heroic role, with the exception of Robert Pattinson, of course. What costumed vigilantes could you see Daniel Radcliffe, or Rupert Grint, or Emma Watson fill the shoes of?

That is the very question I intend to answer now. I will list off a few of the more memorable youngsters from the Harry Potter franchise (specifically those who have yet to play a do-gooder of comic book lore) and decide who would be the best character for them to play. I suppose we will start with the Boy Who Lived…

Daniel Radcliffe - Moon Knight

Since the Harry Potter franchise ended in 2011, Daniel Radcliffe has been working to redefine himself or, in other words, erase his association with the Wizarding World from people’s minds. I’d say he’s done a pretty decent job, taking many bizarre and increasingly bleak roles in films like Horns, Swiss Army Man, and Guns Akimbo, so why not keep that trend afloat by playing Moon Knight: a billionaire playboy by day and nightly crimefighter often called Marvel’s Batman. Of course, his duality is the result of Dissociative Identity Disorder, as well as the vengeful god giving him lunar magical abilities, so I assume this character would be dark enough for Mr. Radcliffe, even if he has debunked recent rumors of his casting.

Rupert Grint - Wally West (The Flash)

You could call one of Rupert Grint’s earlier roles, Thunderpants (in which he plays the inventive best friend of a boy gifted with powerful flatulence), to be a superhero movie, but I don’t think he would want you to consider its existence. To give the 31-year-old actor, best known for playing the Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter films, his first real comic book role, I think we should consider famously red-haired characters, such as Barry Allen’s eventual successor of the Flash moniker, Wally West. Of course, the DCEU already has Ezra Miller as Barry Allen and Keiynan Lonsdale plays Wally (or Kid Flash) in the Arrowverse, so I propose a full reboot completely unrelated to either property (since that’s already DC’s plan for almost everything else), making Grint the official Flash, but perhaps paying subtle tribute to Barry throughout as the speedster before him.

Emma Watson - Rogue

If it were up to me, Anna Paquin would have the role of Rogue back without question, but I think we owe the MCU a chance to tell a new story with a new actress and I cannot think of anyone better than Emma Watson. For one, her role as Belle in the 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast remake has already put her within Disney’s wheelhouse, assuring a smooth transition into the newly acquired world of the X-Men. On the other hand, her stint in the Harry Potter films as Hermione Granger, one of Hogwarts sharpest students, could prove to have been great preparation to play a mutant with the ability to master almost any power, just by absorbing it from the wielder.

Tom Felton - Captain Britain

Imagine being Tom Felton, getting that much desired call from Kevin Feige asking you to be the MCU’s next big… bad guy. Breaking out as the poster child for Slytherin, Draco Malfoy, has haunted the actor since, including his villainous DC character in The Flash (despite the damage not being all his fault), so I think the 32-year-old deserves to finally play a character of great honor, and even one that allows him to use his natural accent, such as Captain Britain. The United Kingdom’s more powerful answer to Captain America, a collaborator of the Avengers and X-Men and even a ruler of the magical dimension from which his powers originated, has attracted the attention of Simon Pegg and Orlando Bloom, so Felton better start campaigning hard, unless he has already started.

Bonnie Wright - Batgirl

Of all the harrowing situations that Harry Potter went through, none could have possibly been as stressfully awkward as falling in love with his best friend’s little sister, Ginny Weasley, which must have been how Batman felt when he became attracted to the daughter of his longtime friend and crimefighting ally Commissioner James Gordon, Barbara, who also moonlights as Batgirl. Of course, the concept of the hero becoming smitten with the sidekick’s flesh and blood is not the only connection between actress and filmmaker Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny in the Harry Potter films, and Barbara Gordon. They both have red hair, too.

Matthew Lewis - Martian Manhunter

Of all the youngsters at Hogwarts, the one student who I believe underwent the most striking transformation is Neville Longbottom, who went from a bumbling dolt to a capable fighter in the final battle against the Death Eaters. Therefore, no role sounds more fitting for Matthew Lewis, who played Neville in the movie franchise, than a DC superhero whose bread and butter is transformation, like shapeshifting alien cop J'onn J'onzz, better known as the Martian Manhunter. Now, anyone who knows me is aware that rapper/actor Common had been my top choice to play Martian Manhunter for years, but since he ruined that chance by making a brief cameo in Suicide Squad, I will turn the duties over to Lewis, whom I have no doubt any lasting Harry Potter die hards would pleased to see more of in Hollywood.

Evanna Lynch - Invisible Woman

Contrary to Neville Longbottom's prolonged incompetence, someone who always excelled in magical mastery in the Harry Potter films is Luna Lovegood, played by Evanna Lynch, despite her best quality, in my opinion, of being a calm, friendly, and warming presence among the chaos that frequently surrounds Hogwarts. Therefore, Lynch should be considered to play a superhero who, like Luna, is smart, highly skilled, and can maintain civility, such as Susan Storm-Richards. The actress turned crimefighter, better known as Invisible Woman for making herself and other objects transparent along with conjuring psionic force fields, has often been cited as the glue that holds the Fantastic Four together for her, decidedly, more important ability of diffusing conflict between her powerful loved ones amid conflict with evil, much like Luna does, making this casting recommendation about much more than hair color.

Domhnall Gleeson - Rorschach

Since starring alongside his father, Brendan ("Madeye" Moody), in the Harry Potter series as Ron's eldest brother Bill Weasley, Domhnall Gleeson has played more than a few comics book roles, but in a technical sense, really. His computer hacking Dredd character had not previously existed in the Judge Dredd comics, General Hux got his own comic book arc only after being introduced in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and his lovesick time traveler in About Time is very self-serving instead of using his powers for justice. It seems the Irish actor does not necessarily want to be a superhero, so, in that case, if the original story of Watchmen were to ever get a big screen reboot, he should channel that reluctance into playing disgruntled, unsympathetic, anti-heroic detective Rorschach who, without his mask, is revealed to have red hair, much like Gleeson.

Harry Melling - Ambush Bug

Of all the most despicable characters in the Harry Potter franchise the worst is, clearly, Dolores Umbridge, however I do not know a single person who has a soft spot for Harry's spoiled, rotten cousin, Dudley Dursley, either. I mean, he is such a hateful irritant (with no help from his parents, of course) that I, after all these years, still cannot look at Harry Melling, the actor who made his debut playing the brat, without feeling annoyed. Therefore, my spiteful recommendation would be to cast Melling as the delusional, fourth wall-breaking Ambush Bug, whose tendency to annoy his DC Universe peers is pretty much the gist of his character, in addition to teleportation. So, at least he has that.

So, what do you think? Are these the comic book legends that the Harry Potter cast was born to play, or do you find my selections utterly wicked (and not in the good way)? Let us know in the comments and be sure to check back for more information and updates within the Wizarding World as well as more hypothetical casting recommendations here on CinemaBlend.

Despite hitting theaters back in December, the conversation surrounding Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker hasn't slowed down much. J.J. Abrams had to cover a ton of narrative mileage through the movie's 142-minute runtime. As such, there's a ton of footage that was left on the cutting room floor, with some plot point being expanded through the movie's novelization and comic books. One character that had a reduced role was Domhnall Gleeson's General Hux. And it turns out the actor wishes that his role was expanded in the theatrical cut.

General Hux had an amusing arc throughout the last trilogy of Star Wars movies. He had a competitive relationship with Kylo Ren, as they fought for Snoke's approval before his untimely death. Hux had a huge plot twist in The Rise of Skywalker, as it was revealed that he was actually a spy for The Resistance. He ended up unceremoniously killed off by Allegiant General Pryde, but it turns out that Domhnall Gleeson wished that he made it further into the movie's runtime. As the actor recently put it,

Despite wishing that Hux had a larger role in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, he has faith in J.J. Abrams' vision as a director. Because in addition to ending the sequel trilogy, the filmmaker also had to wrap up the entire nine-film Skywalker Saga. As such, some characters like Hux and Rose Tico ended up with reduced roles.

Domhnall Gleeson's comments to Indie Wire is an honest expression of his feelings about The Rise of Skywalker. While he doesn't have any issue with how J.J. Abrams handled the blockbuster's contents, the Harry Potter alum admitted he'd love to have Hux in as much of the movie as possible. Although the character's death was an unexpected plot twist that elicited strong reactions in theaters.

After his first two Star Wars appearances, The Rise of Skywalker made a bold change to Hux's character. His hatred for Kylo Ren resulted in him actually aiding The Resistance. You can check out that scene and his death below.

The hits came in quick succession for Hux in The Rise of Skywalker, as no one expected him to be a spy who is killed by another member of the First Order. But Star Wars is known for its twists, and J.J. Abrams brought plenty of them to Episode IX.

Domhnall Gleeson previously revealed a deleted scene involving General Hux. The First Order reportedly shot some thrilling action for The Rise of Skywalker's opening sequence. But that footage resulted in just a few brief shots, before Kylo Ren travels to Exegol in search of Palpatine.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is available on DVD and Blu-ray now. Be sure to check out our 2020 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.

And just like that the galaxy is far, far away again. It’s been a whirlwind five years for Star Wars fans watching the Skywalker Saga return with 2015’s The Force Awakens and then find an epic conclusion with the recent release of The Rise of Skywalker. Episode IX answered the trilogy’s questions and offered closure to over 40 years of the saga’s storytelling. It’s still a shocker that Rise of Skywalker was really the end, but each of the cast members do have some exciting projects ahead to look forward to.

Curious about what The Rise of Skywalker cast is doing now that the high-profile trilogy is over? It’s time to explore what’s next in their careers following the Star Wars conclusion.

Daisy Ridley (Rey)

When Daisy Ridley’s Rey first donned those iconic buns in The Force Awakens, it was the British actresses’ first movie role ever. Now Ridley’s one of the most sought-after stars in Hollywood and has plenty of new roles for fans to look forward to. She will be paired up with MCU’s Spider-Man Tom Holland for the long-awaited Chaos Walking. The dystopian book adaptation was originally set to be released back in 2019 but it was reportedly “deemed unreleasable”. Due to fan demand it’s now coming in January 2021. Ridley will team up with JJ Abrams once again for the fantasy thriller Kolma, to play World War II spy Virginia Hall in A Woman of No Importance and she will also narrate an IMAX original docu-film called Asteroid Hunters.

Adam Driver (Kylo Ren)

Even with his last appearance as Han Solo and Leia’s Kylo Ren put aside, Adam Driver had a massive 2019. He was in three other movies: The Report, The Dead Don’t Die and his Oscar-nominated role in Marriage Story. You’d think he’d take a break but Driver has two more movies in the works right now. He’ll play a standup comedian alongside Marion Cotillard, who will play his opera singer wife in the musical Annette. The couple finds out that their two-year-old has a unique gift. Also, he’ll be in Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s latest writing collaboration The Last Duel. The medieval-set drama will be directed by Ridley Scott and star Affleck, Damon and Killing Eve’s Jodie Comer.

John Boyega (Finn)

The new trilogy’s Finn may have had a cryptic ending in Rise of Skywalker, but fans of John Boyega can look forward to some intriguing roles from the actor coming up. His next movie is called Naked Singularity which is a crime drama about the unraveling of a New York public defender after losing his first case. Olivia Cooke, Ed Skrein and Bill Skarsgard will also star. Boyega will also be in 12 Years A Slave director Steve McQueen’s upcoming BBC series Small Axe. The series will be about the real-life experiences of London’s West Indian between 1969 and 1982 and the Star Wars star will have a lead role in the fourth episode. He has also signed on to a Netflix thriller called Rebel Ridge from the director of the underrated horror film, Green Room.

Oscar Isaac (Poe Dameron)

Much of the Star Wars cast is steering away from anything like their most beloved roles after Rise of Skywalker, but the Poe Dameron is piloting toward it. Oscar Isaac is set to be in “Star Wars for adults” book adaptation Dune directed by Arrival and Blade Runner 2049’s Denis Villenueve. He will play Timothée Chalamet’s father Duke Leto Atreides in the star-studded epic. The actor will also be in a dark comedy called Big Gold Brick alongside Andy Garcia, Megan Fox, Lucy Hale. Isaac will also play Willam Tale in a movie called The Card Counter with Willem Dafoe, Tiffany Haddish and Tye Sheridan also on board.

Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker)

Mark Hamill has been the central character to the Skywalker Saga for some time, but between the time he began his journey and returned to Luke with this new trilogy he has also made a name for himself in the world of voiceover. He’s famously been the animated Joker and following Rise of Skywalker the actor will delve deeper into voice work with four new projects. He’s going to play Skeletor in Netflix’s reboot of Master of the Universe, he’s a part of the animated TV show adaptation of the Image Comic Invincible with the likes of Steven Yeun, J.K. Simmons, Sandra Oh, Seth Rogen and he’ll have a voice role in the video game Squadron 42.

Domhnall Gleeson (General Hux)

So in the grand scheme of things Domhnall Gleeson wasn’t a huge player in Rise of Skywalker. He’s almost in the comedic relief of the Dark Side in the new trilogy. But, the actor has riches of talent to share outside of Star Wars and he’ll certainly do so in the near future. Coming up on April 12, he will be starring in the new HBO series Run with Merritt Wever and Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The rom-com thriller is about a pair of college exes who reunite 17 years later to fulfill their pact to disappear together. Gleeson will also reprise his role as Thomas McGregor in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway… sensing a “runaway” theme here.

Kelly Marie Tran (Rose Tico)

Unfortunately, much of Kelly Marie Tran’s legacy in Star Wars is clouded by controversy – first due to all the internet hate she got for being in The Last Jedi and then more after Skywalker when she was only in it for 1 minute and 16 seconds. Moving forward from Rose Tico, Tran is also following the voiceover route with two high profile roles. The actress will be a character named Val Little in Disney+’s Monsters Inc TV spinoff Monsters At Work. She’s also going to play a character in The Croods 2 coming at the end of the year amongst a cast including Ryan Reynolds, Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone and Peter Dinklage.

Billie Lourd (Lieutenant Connix)

Billie Lourd is the daughter of the late Carrie Fisher and has played the supporting role of Lieutenant Connix in the new Star Wars trilogy. The Force Awakens was her first acting role ever and she’s since become a familiar name in Hollywood. The actress really showed off her chops in Scream Queens and of course as the iconic character of Gigi in Olivia Wilde’s Booksmart. Lourd has also joined Ryan Murphy’s anthology American Horror Story in Cult, Apocalypse and 1984. Billie has been announced to be among the cast of the tenth season of American Horror Story with Kathy Bates, Evan Peters, Finn Wittrock and Home Alone’s Macaulay Culkin.

Lupita Nyong’o (Maz Kanata)

We may never see the above lovable humanoid anytime soon now that the Skywalker Saga is over, but the performance behind her Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o certainly isn’t going anywhere. The Black Panther actress is set to be one of the badass female agents in 355 coming next year with Jessica Chastain, Diane Kruger, Penelope Cruz and Sebastian Stan. Nyong’o will also be the lead in an upcoming HBO Max series Americanah which tells the story of a young Nigerian couple who face struggles as American immigrants. We of course also hope to see her reprise her role as Nakia in Black Panther 2.

Naomi Ackie (Jannah)

There wasn’t enough Naomi Ackie in Rise of Skywalker. Her role of Jannah brought some background to Finn’s past. She’s a fairly new actress that hasn’t had a ton of notable roles just yet. Ackie did have a role in Netflix’s The End of the Fucking World. The actress has previously been part of headlines for her involvement in the Game of Thrones prequel series called Bloodmoon. It was set 8000 years before the events of the hit television show and a pilot was shot, but it received negative reception by HBO and was effectively cancelled. Ackie is going to be in a movie called The Score which is about “small time crook” characters played by Will Poulter and Johnny Flynn who drive to a cafe to nab a big score.

Harrison Ford (Han Solo)

Harrison Ford’s role in Rise of Skywalker wasn’t much more than a cameo, but he was in the movie and he’s Han Solo, so of course he’s found a place on this list. The future of Ford’s career after Star Wars is interesting because next he’s going back to another famed role of his: Indiana Jones. The actor is signed on to star in Indiana Jones 5 and continue Lucasfilm’s plan to expand its well-known franchises. It was recently announced that Steven Spielberg is no longer directing and James Mangold will be reportedly helming instead. He’s also set to star in a television show called The Staircase which is an adaptation of the docuseries about a man who claims his wife died by falling down a flight of stairs but he’s suspected to be her murderer.

Who out of the Rise of Skywalker cast are you most excited to follow after the end of the Skywalker Saga? Sound off in the comments below.

Warning: SPOILERS for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker ahead!

The rumors were true (as were pretty much all of the leaks), Domhnall Gleeson’s General Armitage Hux wound up being a spy for the Resistance in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. But, other than that, the character doesn’t play much of a role and is summarily executed long before the climax of the film. Yet, while his fate was perhaps always sealed, we could have gotten more from the military leader of the First Order in The Rise of Skywalker. Actor Domhnall Gleeson revealed a deleted scene for Hux, saying:

Speaking with Kinowetter, Domhnall Gleeson and Richard E. Grant, who plays Allegiant General Pryde in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, were asked about any times they filmed that they weren’t in the studio. In response, Domhnall Gleeson reveals that he and Richard E. Grant did film one scene on location, but that scene, or at least their part in it, got cut.

According to Domhnall Gleeson, the scene that got cut was a battle in a forest with Kylo Ren. The scene in question occurs at the very beginning of the Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker when Kylo Ren is seeking out the Sith Wayfinder to find his way to Emperor Palpatine and Exogal. If you need a refresher, it’s the scene in the image below:

Apparently both Domhnall Gleeson’s Hux and Richard E. Grant’s Pryde were actually present at this forest battle, but their parts of the scene were cut and we’ll have to wait and hope to see them on the extras of The Rise of Skywalker’s eventual home video release.

It’s a shame that this scene got cut because we never really got to see Hux in a proper battle and it would have added another element to his character to see him in the thick of it in some fashion, even if he was just on the ground commanding troops and not actually engaging. It also could have provided another opportunity to show the acrimony in his relationship with Kylo Ren that drove his eventual betrayal of the First Order.

The presence of Hux and Pryde in this scene actually would have changed it a bit for me as well. The impression I had was that Kylo’s mission was very much him off on his own, with a small cadre of soldiers, doing his own thing to find Palpatine. But, with the presence of Domhnall Gleeson and Richard E. Grant’s characters, it becomes more of an official First Order operation.

There are still a lot of questions left unanswered about the scene of Kylo Ren battling in the forest. Like who was he battling and why did they have the Wayfinder? Also, how did they get it and how did he know they had it or even that a Sith Wayfinder was what he needed in the first place?

Hopefully, this deleted Hux scene and many other deleted scenes make their way to the Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Blu-ray (and the Skywalker Saga box set), because this is a film that feels like it could really benefit from an Ultimate Edition of sorts, with more time to flesh things out and let certain scenes breathe.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is now playing. Check out our 2020 Release Schedule to see what’s headed to theaters next year.

The Star Wars franchise is one of the most beloved properties in film history, reaching across generations and making billions at the box office. And the decades of movies will all come to a head with J.J. Abrams' Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. The upcoming sequel will complete the nine-movie Skywalker Saga, while also wrapping up the sequel trilogy's story. And according to Hux actor Domnhall Gleeson, the story might just surprise us.

Star Wars has always been a franchise full of twists, with the most obvious being Vader being Luke's father in Empire Strikes Back. The sequel trilogy has certainly packed plenty of unexpected turns, especially in the handling of the original trio of heroes. Domnhall Gleeson will play General Hux for the third time in The Rise of Skywalker, and recently teased the surprising nature of the script, saying:

While being careful not to actually reveal anything about its contents, Domnhall Gleeson's tease about the Rise of Skywalker's script is sure to excite the generations of fans out there. J.J. Abrams is going to have to pull out all the stops for Episode IX, and it seems the script is really standing on its own.

Domnhall Gleeson's comments to Collider will no doubt be a relief for Star Wars fans who might be nervous about the upcoming blockbuster. Star Wars fans are very passionate about the franchise, sometimes to a fault. And when the contents of The Last Jedi and Solo: A Star Wars Story failed to impress naysayers, there was some faith lost about the galaxy far, far away.

The pressure is certainly on for J.J Abrams to bring a satisfying conclusion to the narrative he started with The Force Awakens, and the overall Star Wars franchise as we know it. The upcoming blockbuster will bring the trio of new heroes back together, in a mysterious final battle against Kylo Ren and the First Order.

Related: Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker Book Reveals Look At The Knights Of Ren

Adam Driver's villain will likely be key to the plot, as he ascended to Supreme Leader after murdering Snoke in The Last Jedi. Episode IX will be the last chance for his soul to be saved, and brought back to the Light Side of The Force. And wherever Kylo is, Donhall Gleeson's General Hux will likely not be far from view. That not so dynamic duo will also be joined by Richard E. Grant's newcomer Allegiant General Pryde.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker will arrive in theaters on December 20th. In the meantime, check out our 2019 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.

Warning: The following is just a rumor, but if true, it would constitute a major SPOILER for Star Wars: Episode IX, so proceed with caution!

Perhaps more than any other franchise, Star Wars is the subject of countless rumors and exhaustive theorizing. Fans seek to learn all they can and speculate about what happened a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. This is more true than ever for master of the mystery box, J.J. Abrams, whose Star Wars: Episode IX is set to end the Skywalker Saga that began with 1977's Star Wars: A New Hope.

We are approaching the halfway point between Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Star Wars: Episode IX and J.J. Abrams has his film's secrets locked up tight with little in the way of concrete information out there. So now seems a prudent time to look at the various rumors surrounding Episode IX and talk through them; what are their chances of happening, what would their effect be on the film and the franchise? Also, do we even want them to come true.

First up is a rumor that initially surfaced a couple of months back and if true, it would make for a pretty massive twist in the final film in this trilogy. The rumor is that part of Episode IX will see Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) rooting out a mole in the First Order who is secretly working for the Resistance, and that the mole turns out to be none other than Domhnall Gleeson's General Armitage Hux.

Hux has been one of the three pillars of villainy in the first two films in the new trilogy and this would obviously mark a drastic shift for the character. Where Snoke had a mysteriousness about him and Kylo Ren has been racked with inner conflict, Hux has been the one whose evil has been the most overt, the most hateful and the most gleeful.

Hux screaming to his troops on Starkiller Base before the destruction of the Hosnian system evoked real-life villains throughout history, making it clear that this isn't just a job for Hux, he's a true believer, a zealot for the cause of the First Order. Basically, if he's been faking it, he's been really, really selling it.

So what would make him betray his beloved First Order for a Resistance he has called loathsome and filth? Well, Kylo Ren just kind of has that effect on people. And that's what makes this rumor somewhat believable. It doesn't retroactively make him a mole throughout the series, just in the wake of The Last Jedi.

According to the rumor, Hux is attempting to undermine his new Supreme Leader and make him look bad in the eyes of the First Order just enough for him to be deposed, and for Hux to take over.

After the battle in the throne room in The Last Jedi, we saw Hux motion for his blaster upon discovery of a dead Snoke and a prone Kylo Ren. The intention to usurp power is there (he may lack Force sensitivity, but Hux has very Sith-like traits) and with Snoke now gone there will be no one to stand between Hux and Kylo's destructive impulses and unhinged behavior. A person can only take so much and an unrestrained Kylo could push Hux over the edge into doing something drastic.

It's actually kind of surprising that either of these dictators will maintain power now that Snoke is gone. Snoke and Kylo regularly dunked on Hux in front of his subordinates and the First Order troopers are well aware of Kylo's temper tantrums, meaning they both look weak and ineffectual. Tarkin and Vader these two are not.

On the one hand, helping the Resistance in any way goes against everything we know about Hux, so that makes this rumor seem unlikely. On the other hand, the end of The Last Jedi set up a new dynamic within the First Order and the antagonistic relationship between Hux and Kylo has been established since the beginning.

So while on its surface this might seem unlikely, the circumstances of Hux betraying the First Order to temporarily help the Resistance are true to the characters' behavior thus far and the power struggle within the First Order. Hux is a weaselly, underhanded individual so betrayal is not beneath him, that's for sure. And even if Hux winds up getting caught or dooming the First Order through his actions, those outcomes would all be in keeping with the buffonishness the villain has displayed thus far.

Therefore I think that this rumor, while maybe not entirely accurate, probably contains some truth about Star Wars: Episode IX. It seems extremely likely that Hux will be working against Kylo Ren in some way, whether that goes as far as him working against the First Order by feeding information to the Resistance, albeit temporarily, remains to be seen.

As far as how things could play out, I don't really see Armitage Hux meeting with Poe Dameron and agreeing to help out the Resistance with a handshake to seal the deal. The circumstances of how such a meeting would come to be would be weird, and I don't see how either party would ever trust each other.

More likely I think is that the Resistance starts getting intel somehow from an unnamed source. The intel is good and they keep using it, never knowing that it is Hux who is undermining the First Order. Then I imagine at some point Kylo Ren discovers that Hux is the mole and either forces him to tell the Resistance something or just gives Hux bad information that ultimately leads the heroes into what Admiral Ackbar might call a trap.

Now, as to whether or not we'd like to see this rumor come true. I think this can work as long as (as is the case with anything) it is done in a way that makes sense and rings true. We would really need to see Hux pushed to the edge and need to see that he believes that his only recourse is to become a mole for the Resistance.

I wouldn't want this to dominate the story in any way, Hux hasn't been a particularly compelling or rich character thus far and giving too much weight to his arc as a mole in this final film could take away from more deserving characters. That said I do think the power struggle between Hux and Kylo should continue since it's already been established and with Kylo now Supreme Leader, we do need to see a progression and escalation of that. As long as Hux isn't redeemed in any way, I'm open to seeing Hux as a mole for the Resistance in Star Wars: Episode IX.

Now it's time to let us know what you think. Tell us if you think this will happen in the poll below and head to the comments section to say why you do or don't want it to. Star Wars: Episode IX opens in theaters on December 20, 2019.

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The Star Wars franchise has had a powerful resurgence, as Disney took control of Lucasfilm and began producing both main installments and standalone films. But since Star Wars has so much iconography and a long tenure in the theaters, the franchise is very personal to the fandom. And when Star Wars: The Last Jedi arrived this past December, some Star Wars fans flipped their lid. They took umbrage with Rian Johnson's subversive sequel, and his drastic changes to the canon. Aside from Johnson, the target of the most hate was Kelly Marie Tran, who played newcomer Rose Tico. Everything from her performance, her race, and her appearance were criticized, with Tran leaving social media in response to online harassment. Plenty of her co-stars have come to the actress' defense, and now Domhnall Gleeson aka General Hux, has gotten blunt about the situation, saying:

Well, he certainly didn't hold back. Like fellow Star Wars icons Mark Hamill, John Boyega, and Rian Johnson, it seems that Kelly Marie Tran's online harassment has struck a chord with Domhnall Gleeson. And while Hux may not be on Rose's ride within the galaxy far, far away, that's not the case IRL.

Domhnall Gleeson's comments to HeyUGuys echo the thoughts of the rest of the Star Wars cast and crew, and seem to highlight a problem within the moviegoing community. Fan passion is what drives franchises like Star Wars, and Gleeson seems eager to hear any constructive criticism for the current trilogy. But when the response becomes an attack, there's a line crossed.

The Last Jedi had plenty of moments that fans have taken umbrage with, as Rian Johnson tried to purposefully twist and turn the story in unexpected ways. Rose Tico enters in the film's first act, when she's mourning her sister. Her story mostly focuses on the Canto Bight sequence, which is one most criticized scenes of the movie. But the attacks on Kelly Marie Tran weren't just about her character, but the actress herself-- especially her race and appearance.

Kelly Marie Tran and Domhnall Gleeson will both return to the Star Wars franchise when J.J. Abrams' untitled Episode IX arrives in theaters on December 20th, 2019. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.

SPOILER WARNING: The following article contains massive spoilers for The Little Stranger. Read at your own risk.

Red herrings are wonderful devices in mystery storytelling, and Lenny Abrahamson's The Little Stranger utilizes an impressive one. For almost the entire runtime it has you looking to the right, believing it to be the spirit of young Susan that is haunting Hundreds Hall, but right at the end you turn left and realize it's actually young Faraday. It's the kind of revelation that causes you to rethink everything that you just saw -- and this includes the little scribbles that are found carved into the woodwork. According to Abrahamson, you're meant to think that the little 'S's' stand for "Susan," but instead it is actually Faraday's first initial, which is only shown once, and in the middle of the movie:

When you watch The Little Stranger a second time, it would be wise to pay attention to the names listed outside the office of the protagonist's practice, shown in the second act of the movie, as Faraday, played by Domhnall Gleeson, is listed as "S. Faraday" -- a detail ultimately linked to the movie's big mystery. Characters in the film only refer to him as Faraday or "the doctor," so the connection is never made explicit, but the character's mystery first name is meant to explain both the mysterious scribbles at Hundreds Hall and the ones found on the desk in his office.

Having spotted the initial during my screening of The Little Stranger, I confirmed the detail when I spoke with Lenny Abrahamson last month. He not only explained on the connection between Faraday and the scribbles, but also why elements like that made it so tricky to adapt the story from its source material: the novel of the same name by author Sarah Waters. In one medium the audience subsists only on the details the writer provides; while the latter offers up the chance for them to soak up every element. Said Abrahamson,

Still, it doesn't get more subtle than sneaking an "S" on to a name label, and it's definitely not until you get to the end of The Little Stranger that you fully understand its significance.

The movie is a wonderful slice of gothic horror featuring a number of stellar performances, and hopefully it will find a large audience. The Little Stranger is currently out in limited release -- and stay tuned here on CinemaBlend for more from my interview with Lenny Abrahamson.

Subtlety is often a defining element for a horror movie. There are thousands of bombastic, scream-in-your face features that take the intensity to 11 at the start and break off the knob; but those titles can be balanced by stories that are not so much about shrieks and scares, but instead sending chills down the spine. Both have equal merit, but also attract audiences on different sides of the spectrum: some don't go to the movies to feel like they've bathed in blood, and others don't have the patience for slow-burn. If you're a person who fits into the latter category, Lenny Abrahamson's The Little Stranger may not be for you; however, if you're tastes gravitate towards haunting mysteries about the depths and darkness of human desire, however, then this is a film to which you should sprint.

The work marks Abrahamson's debut in the genre -- the filmmaker in the past few years bringing us the delightfully oddball comedy Frank, and the powerful, Oscar-winning drama Room -- and what he weaves is a spectacularly atmospheric, engaging, and twisting tale that packs an ending that will have you talking for days. It's deliberate in its storytelling, and may not fully satisfy those who watch horror for the bloodletting, but those willing to invest in it will be immensely rewarded, as it's a rich cinematic experience that is sullenly gorgeous, challenging, and even surprisingly relevant in its themes.

Adapted by Lucinda Coxon, based on the novel of the same name by author Sarah Waters, The Little Stranger transports us back to the 1940s in Warwickshire, England, finding a straight-laced, stoic doctor named Faraday (Domhnall Gleeson) requested for a house call at a dilapidated mansion called Hundreds Hall. While treating a young maid who complains about the residence's dark energy, the physician gets to know the Ayres family -- a clan long past its glory days. Caroline Ayres (Ruth Wilson) is the head of the household, as her mother (Charlotte Rampling) hasn't been entirely put together since the death of her young daughter, Susan; and her brother, Roderick (Will Poulter), wears both serious physical and emotional scars of war.

Having been brought up as part of the lower class and looking back at a single childhood visit to Hundreds Hall as a life-changing event, Faraday begins an obsession with the Ayres clan -- though that decision is heavily questioned. After all, it's family beset by enough tragedy to begin talks of a curse. Still, the doctor's fixation continues, particularly through courtship of Caroline, but as time goes on it becomes increasingly clear that something unnatural, or supernatural, is at play.

The Little Stranger plays with a lot of respect for the viewer and zero scenes with long, drawn-out explanations, but an attentive audience will get a great deal from the experience. Both Lenny Abrahamson's direction and Lucinda Coxon's script are filled with wonderful and carefully placed details that provide the necessary insight to navigate the story -- and while all of the clues are there for you to take in over the course of the runtime, it's all so artfully done that the ending remains completely unpredictable. It not only provides a wonderful shock to ingest as the credits roll, but it immediately causes a craving for a second viewing, so that you can see how all of those aforementioned details play with a totally different context.

The movie marks a reunion between Lenny Abrahamson and Domhnall Gleeson, who previously worked together on Frank, and while the two projects couldn't be more different tonally, one area where they overlap is featuring a tremendous performance from the Irish actor. There are links between the characters, as both are hungry for something that exists beyond their grasp, but what Gleeson brings to The Little Stranger is deeper and darker. It's a challenging part, as Faraday is taken down a complicated emotional path in his relationship with Caroline, but the star also focuses our attention with his underlying passion and shared curiosity in the larger mystery.

Part of what's great about The Little Stranger continuing Lenny Abrahamson's eclectic run as a director is that it's allowed him another unique aesthetic with which to experiment, and the gothic horror genre has allowed him, like with Room, to create something that is exquisitely and darkly beautiful. Hundreds Hall is a stunning estate with spectacular and memorable design -- an extension of Faraday's passion -- and on a broader level the film is gorgeous and transporting as a period piece. And while the larger approach is more about unnerving the audience than scaring, there are particular scenes (which I won't spoil here), that deliver an impressive and lasting shock.

Not everyone is going to be on board with it, but The Little Stranger is a film that you have to give yourself over to and live in. It's methodical storytelling, but also spectacularly rich and fulfilling, right up to its perfectly mysterious conclusion that demands further engagement and discussion. It's quiet and subtle, but it packs a great punch, and is a wonderful and different addition to the ongoing horror renaissance.

It's many actor's dream to join the Star Wars franchise, given the property's iconography and massive fanbase. Everyone from established actors like Laura Dern to newcomers like Kelly Marie Tran have expressed their excitement over joining the galaxy far, far away. But there's still downsides to these jobs, including dodging questions on red carpets, and using super secretive scripts. Actor Domhnall Gleeson has played General Hux since Star Wars: The Force Awakens, functioning as an amusing foil to Adam Driver's villainous Kylo Ren. But it turns out Star Wars scripts usually throw Gleeson for a loop, mostly because of the detailed sci-fi talk and futuristic weaponry. As he tells it,

While Domhnall Gleeson has worked in iconic franchises like Harry Potter, it seems that General Hux's complicated Star Wars lingo can get him mixed up on set. But the actor is obviously able to overcome, because any difficulty didn't translate to the finished product of either The Force Awakens or The Last Jedi.

Aside from listing off some of the galaxy's most complicated technical and mechanical devices, Domhnall Gleeson's characterization of Hux has also been fascinating through his first two appearances in the Star Wars franchise. Hux functioned as a tertiary antagonist in the first film, although his monologue to the First Order troops was bone chilling. He became more of a comical figure in The Last Jedi, and now J.J. Abrams can take the character seemingly anywhere in the mysteriously untitled Episode IX.

In his same conversation with the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Domhnall Gleeson very nearly spoiled one of Hux's plot points for Episode IX. When describing his character's difficult lines of dialogue he nearly slipped, saying:

It seems like Domhnall Gleeson is having a ton of Star Wars script related anxiety. Luckily for him, that process should be coming to an end soon. J.J. Abrams' Episode IX is currently in the midst of filming, wrapping up the current trilogy and overall Skywalker Saga. This includes General Hux, and his complicated relationship with Kylo Ren.

All will be revealed when Episode IX arrives in theaters on December 20th, 2018. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.

On the surface, two characters can't be much more different than Bill Weasley and General Armitage Hux. Bill Weasley is an effortlessly cool wizard who wears a ponytail and a fang earring, and works as a curse breaker for Gringotts Bank. He also happens to be quite the ladies man, having married the gorgeous Fleur Delacour. General Hux, on the other hand, is a cripplingly uptight military man and loud talker whose volume is matched only by his cruelty and ambition. Despite their differences, these two characters are both played by Domhnall Gleeson, and it turns out that his role in Harry Potter actually helped the actor when it came time for Star Wars, as he explained:

His part as Bill Weasley in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was the first role in a major blockbuster film for Domhnall Gleeson. More than just being the closing chapter in a beloved franchise, Harry Potter is also based on a beloved book series, and fans had been waiting to see Bill Weasley (who shows up earlier in the books) for some time, so there were massive expectations that came with that. Because he had that experience on Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, he was better prepared for that kind of pressure when he took on a role in perhaps the biggest franchise of them all, with maybe the most intense fans: Star Wars.

It sounds like getting used to that pressure with a small part in the final two Harry Potter films gave Domhnall Gleeson a sense of what to expect and how to deal with it when it came time for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, where he had a bigger role as one of the main villains. As he told Entertainment Weekly, you can't control fan reaction; all you can do is your job. That may seem obvious, but experience is the best teacher and it sounds like that really helped him when it came time to stop fighting dark wizards and start fighting space wizards.

Speaking about the character of General Hux, Domhnall Gleeson acknowledges that General Hux is a bit ridiculous and extreme, adorning himself in the garb of military might. Although personally, I would say that that ridiculousness does give way to some humor at Hux's expense, as he is laughed at by the enemy and dragged in front of his subordinates by his superiors. He definitely does not command the same level of respect that Grand Moff Tarkin did, and that's part of what makes his relationship with Kylo and the First Order in general so different than that the Empire.

Domhnall Gleeson returns as General Hux in the final chapter in the Skywalker Saga, Star Wars: Episode IX, in theaters on December 20, 2019. Before that though, we get to return to the Wizarding World in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, apparating into theaters on November 16. For all of the biggest movies still to come this year, check out our release calendar.

When Disney and Lucasfilm decided to revive the Star Wars film series, they hired J.J. Abrams to get the ball rolling with The Force Awakens, and looking at the movie's critical and commercial performance, the relaunch was incredibly successful. Last December, The Last Jedi picked up immediately after The Force Awakens, but Rian Johnson's first contribution to a galaxy far, far away not only felt tonally different from its predecessor at times, it also included a number of twists that polarized moviegoers. Whatever your opinions about The Last Jedi are, it certainly distinguished itself as a unique entry to the Star Wars canon, and Domhnall Gleeson, a.k.a. General Hux, was pleased with how Johnson's vision for the movie turned out, particularly concerning his character. Gleeson explained:

Domhnall Gleeson's Hux was among the many new main characters The Force Awakens introduced to the Star Wars universe in 2015, and he had an expanded role in The Last Jedi as he led the efforts to exact revenge on The Resistance for blowing up Starkiller Base. While reception to Hux was more mixed this time around due to the humor surrounding him and his repeated humiliations, Gleeson had no issue with his character's portrayal. But even looking beyond Hux, Gleeson's comments indicate that he liked how Rian Johnson used not only made sure The Last Jedi didn't feel like a duplicate of The Force Awakens, but also used it to steer this film series into new territory. Clearly the higher-ups at Lucasfilm agreed, because last year, it was announced that he will oversee a new Star Wars trilogy that will be separate from the Skywalker saga.

Although The Last Jedi was met with positive reception from critics, within the more passionate side of the Star Wars fan community, the debates continue about the movie's more controversial elements, including Snoke being abruptly killed off (and without revealing any of his backstory beforehand), Rey's parents being revealed as simply junk traders, and Luke Skywalker Force projecting himself from Ahch-To to Crait, among other things. The Last Jedi ended with the few surviving members of The Resistance escaping on The Millennium Falcon, and with Luke's sacrifice, they can now rebuild and become stronger than ever. While Domhnall Gleeson hasn't seen a script for Episode IX yet, he did mention during his interview with Radio Times that he's hoping that the next movie, which J.J. Abrams is directing and co-writing with Chris Terrio, will give Hux even more comedic moments.

The current Star Wars trilogy will conclude when Episode IX is released on December 20, 2019, but before that, the franchise will wind the clock back for Solo: A Star Wars Story, which opens on May 25.

Slapstick is one of the oldest forms of performance in entertainment, and it's also one of the most physically demanding. Domhnall Gleeson discovered that first-hand while shooting Will Gluck's Peter Rabbit, in which he plays the mean and crotchety Thomas McGregor opposite James Corden's eponymous, heroic rabbit. CinemaBlend recently sat down with Gleeson to discuss the challenges of shooting all of that physical comedy, and the Star Wars: The Last Jedi star explained that it had to hurt because it needed to look real to sell the jokes. Gleeson explained:

It's not just a matter of showing a character getting hurt on film. According to Domhnall Gleeson's take on Peter Rabbit's slapstick bits, the pain and exhaustion actually needed to seem authentic for the jokes to land. This commitment to hurting himself resulted in sequences that weren't particularly comfortable for Gleeson, but they allowed him to get better laughs by throwing himself into walls, stepping on rakes, or sticking his hands in (what we hope were fake) rodent traps.

It also sounds like this beating wasn't just restricted to the beginning of the shoot when Domhnall Gleeson was fresh and ready for action. The actor talked later in his conversation with CinemaBlend about one of the most physically taxing days towards the end of the Peter Rabbit shoot when he had to go down a flight of stairs in a wheelbarrow. Gleeson explained:

This commitment to physical comedy is something that Domhnall Gleeson has been showing off quite a bit lately. Even before the release of Peter Rabbit, his work in the Star Wars franchise as General Hux has similarly afforded him chances to play up his great slapstick chops. Now we're just partially hoping that Gleeson has some time off to recuperate after taking all of these beatings.

If you are looking for a closer look at CinemaBlend's chat with Domhnall Gleeson about Peter Rabbit, then check out a brief clip from the interview below.

Audiences will get to see Domhnall Gleeson take that beating when Peter Rabbit debuts in theaters this weekend on February 9. If you want more information about the movie, then hop (rabbit pun intended) over to our in-depth review of the film to see what we thought of it.

Warning: Massive Spoilers ahead for Star Wars: The Last Jedi

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is full of memorable moments, both loved and hated. Most of the characters in the film get something of a signature scene that says a lot about who they are. Largely an afterthought in the film, Domhnall Gleeson's General Armitage Hux even gets one really fun moment that serves to remind the audience of who this guy is, and it turns out that the actor himself played a huge part in making it happen.

The moment comes towards the latter half of the film, during a scene aboard Supreme Leader Snoke's ship, the Supremacy. General Armitage Hux has just entered the throne room to find a chaotic and dismaying sight. Snoke has been killed, his Praetorian guards defeated. Kylo Ren lies unconscious on the floor following his emotional battle of will with Rey that resulted in the explosion of Anakin Skywalker's fabled lightsaber. During this interregnum, with his leader dead and greatest rival exposed and vulnerable, General Hux sees an opportunity to seize control of the First Order for himself and reaches for a weapon in his greatcoat. But before he can finish the job, Kylo awakens and arises the new Supreme Leader. This was a moment that Domhnall Gleeson felt was necessary for his character, as he explained:

This moment elicited laughs from the audience, but hearing Domhnall Gleeson's comments on The IMDb Studio at Sundance, I can totally see his reasoning for wanting Hux to have a moment like that. It shows that Hux is always a threat and has no qualms about killing a defenseless opponent. Hux is something of a punching bag in the new Star Wars trilogy, a sniveling underling and vehement zealot, the First Order officer is often made to look the fool by friend and foe alike. Star Wars: The Last Jedi starts off with Poe Dameron tricking Hux before destroying a dreadnought. Unlike Vader who respected Grand Moff Tarkin, Hux is protected from Kylo Ren's wrath thanks only to Snoke, who finds him useful. So it would be easy for the audience to begin to, if not feel bad for, at least view Hux as less than pure evil and simply someone trying to survive while surrounded by sharks.

The fact that Rian Johnson is open and listens to his actor's concerns about their characters is the mark of a good director. It is cool that he was willing to listen to Domhnall Gleeson's thoughts and work with him to come up with a way to position Hux as someone to still be feared going forward. This moment was fun because we got to laugh at the cowardice of Hux, but it also served to remind the audience that this is a genuinely ruthless, cunning and evil man who is second in command to the most powerful and tyrannical force in the galaxy. You can still catch Star Wars: The Last Jedi in theaters, now.

After years and years of waiting, Star Wars: The Force Awakens delivered not only thrills, but also answers to some of the biggest questions that fans have been asking about the fictional universe since the release of Return of the Jedi. Of course, the film was not only considered Episode VII, but also the launch pad for a brand new trilogy of movies that will work to complete the story of both the characters to whom we've just been introduced, and the ones we've known and loved for decades. Basically, once the wait for The Force Awakens ended, the wait for Star Wars: The Last Jedi began.

As we do with all big upcoming blockbusters, we've thrown together a handy guide for the next chapter of the legendary sci-fi story -- utilizing all of the information that we got from The Force Awakens as well as all of the rumors and reports that have been swirling around. Let's start with a look at the most recent theatrical trailer:

That trailer gave us a taste of what we can expect from Star Wars: The Last Jedi, but what else have we learned in the multi-year-long run-up to the eighth chapter in the Star Wars saga? Read on and find out!

SPOILERS AHEAD: This article contains spoilers for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. If you want to read our spoiler-free review, click here. The rest of you, read on... but know that you have been warned.

What Is The Star Wars: The Last Jedi Release Date?

Arriving almost exactly two years after its immediate predecessor series-wise, Star Wars: The Last Jedi will arrive in theaters on December 15, 2017. If every day is a struggle for you not seeing it, you can always bust out copies of the original trilogy, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (we can't morally recommend revisiting the prequels).

What Is The Star Wars: The Last Jedi Rating?

Intended to be family-friendly entertainment, the Star Wars movies have always gone for either a PG or PG-13 rating, and Star Wars: The Last Jedi is not breaking with that tradition. The MPAA has given the blockbuster the latter grade, citing that parents should attend screenings with audience members younger than 13 because of "sequences of sci-fi action and violence."

The Director

Director J.J. Abrams was the man put in charge of laying the groundwork for what will be the future of the Star Wars saga, but it was decided that he would not be back to take the helm of the next chapter. After directing The Force Awakens, Abrams will be staying on as an Executive Producer and creative consultant for the franchise, while the reins will be handed over to writer/director Rian Johnson (who landed the gig back in June 2014). Star Wars: The Last Jedi will be the first time that the young filmmaker has taken the helm of a franchise feature, though his experience does give us a great deal of confidence in his abilities. He broke out onto the scene with his fantastic, gritty neo-noir Brick, and he has followed it up with both the fun caper The Brothers Bloom and the trippy time travel action movie Looper. With that most recent title in particular he has demonstrated a knack for sci-fi storytelling, and it's exciting to think of what he will do with a mix of iconic characters.

The Title

Fans spent years referring to Rian Johnson's entry in the Star Wars franchise as simply Star Wars: Episode VIII, but on January 23, 2017 it finally got a title. As seen above, it was officially announced that the blockbuster would be called Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The news came with no further details about the blockbuster, leaving many to question exactly to whom the name is referring. It turns out that it's Luke Skywalker, as he was identified as such in the opening crawl of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

What Is The Star Wars: The Last Jedi Story?

Rian Johnson has written the script for Star Wars: The Last Jedi - though no firm details about the larger plot have been revealed yet (let's not forget that we never actually got a full plot description for Star Wars: The Force Awakens). Really, the only thing we know about the story is where it will begin: it's been confirmed by the writer/director that the movie will break from franchise tradition and begin immediately after the end of The Force Awakens, bringing us back to the frozen moment shared between Rey and Luke Skywalker at the end of J.J. Abrams' blockbuster.

At this point, we really can't say what the established characters will be facing -- but we certainly do expect the new movie to continue some important plot threads from Episode VII. Will Luke wind up teaching Rey in the ways of becoming a Jedi, or is he still too shattered after the events with Ben Solo a.k.a. Kylo Ren? (given his line, "the Jedi must end" in the trailer, training may not be his bag anymore). How will Leia operate in the aftermath of her son killing his father? (and how will it deal with the sad real life loss of Carrie Fisher?) What will Finn do now that he's free from the First Order's clutches? What will Poe Dameron and BB-8 get up to now that they are reunited? These are all questions that we will address as we get further into this feature!

Rey

Rey, as portrayed by Daisy Ridley, shares many things in common with the path of Luke Skywalker -- with perhaps the most important being that she is positioned to be the central protagonist of a Star Wars trilogy. When we were first introduced to her, she was a scavenger living in poverty on the desert planet Jakku, trading parts from crashed ships for food. As The Force Awakens played out, however, she not only proved herself as an adept fighter and pilot (now at the helm of the Millennium Falcon), but also was revealed to be Force sensitive and on the path towards becoming a Jedi.

But will Rey actually become a Jedi? That's certainly a question that Star Wars: The Last Jedi will need to address. Following the map provided by BB-8 and R2-D2, Rey is able to find Luke Skywalker at the end of The Force Awakens, but after everything he's been through it's hard to say whether or not he will be up for taking on a new Padawan. The teaser certainly suggests some work using the Force, both lifting rocks and meditating on both sides of the universe-binding energy, but the last line suggests that Skywalker may not be willing to train Rey as a knight. Our heroine really doesn't have anything to lose in the matter, because if he says no she can either go back to her life of waiting on Jakku or join the Resistance against The First Order (fighting with her nifty new lightsaber). But knowing how Star Wars typically works, one can guess that she is on the path towards fighting for the Light Side -- perhaps to finally bringing balance to the Force.

Another continuing mystery about Rey is the identity of her parents. We learn in Star Wars: The Force Awakens that she was left on Jakku at a young age with no real knowledge of where she came from -- so that will surely be a thread that's picked up in The Last Jedi. Fans have speculated that she could be the daughter of Luke Skywalker, but obviously we have no way of really knowing whether or not that's true just yet.

Finn

When we last saw Finn (John Boyega), he wasn't in the best of shape. Adequately enraged following the death of Han Solo, he decided to take on Kylo Ren in a lightsaber dual, and ended up on the losing end. The good news is that he survived the battle, ready to continue on as a soldier for the Resistance... but he will probably also have a wicked scar going up his spine as a result of the student of the Dark Side's final blow.

It's hard to say what Star Wars: The Last Jedi will have in store for Finn, beyond a desire for some revenge against Kylo Ren. It certainly doesn't look like he will be up on his feet when the story starts, given that the earliest look we got at him in the teaser was him in a comatose state. One possibility story-wise is an exploration of exactly why he decided to betray The First Order and leave his life as a Stormtrooper. As we learn in The Force Awakens, he never had any discipline or attitude problems prior to the moment we meet him on Jakku -- so why did he suddenly have such a big revelation? Was it just seeing all of the madness around him, or perhaps something bigger?

Like Rey, there is a certain "origin story" element that seems open for exploration. "Finn" is not really the character's name, but instead an adaptation of his given Stormtrooper code number, FN-2187. But who was he before he was taken by The First Order? What happened to his parents? These are all questions to which the sequel could wind up delivering answers.

Poe Dameron

Though he wasn't given quite the same level of spotlight that was given to Rey and Finn, Oscar Isaac's Poe Dameron is equally as exciting as both of them as a new character. Not only does he own the cutest droid in the entire Star Wars universe (more on BB-8 later), but he is also a badass X-Wing pilot who helped the Resistance blow up The First Order's Starkiller Base.

Presumably we won't spend half of Star Wars: The Last Jedi thinking that Poe is dead (not that we believed it in The Force Awakens), but there is a big question mark when it comes to exactly how he will be involved. His position as the ace fighter for the Resistance means that he will be a key part of any mission against The First Order, but hopefully we will see him spend more time as part of the core group of characters including Rey and Finn (a la Luke, Leia and Han from the original trilogy). Given the torture session that occurs in the first act of J.J. Abrams' movie, Dameron does have a personal bone to pick with Kylo Ren (like a lot of people), so perhaps that will be what connects him to the main story in the sequel and keeps him involved. Unfortunately, the trailer only gave us a look at him in a sequence where a Resistance hanger is doing a bit of exploding - which could wind up being really thrilling.

Luke Skywalker

After barely appearing in Star Wars: The Force Awakens (and not even having a single line of dialogue), Luke Skywalker has a chance to play a significant role in Star Wars: The Last Jedi - with Mark Hamill finally getting some legit screen time. As mentioned, the movie will begin with his legitimate introduction to Rey, but there is still the looming question as to whether or not he will actually train her in the ways of the Jedi - and Rian Johnson will most definitely have to address that issue.

While Luke didn't have much of a role, Star Wars: The Force Awakens did give us the opportunity to learn a good amount about what happened to him in the 30 years since we last saw him... and most of it isn't positive. After discovering that his nephew, Ben Solo, was Force-sensitive, Luke decided to take the young one under his wing and teach him the ways of the Light side. Unfortunately, his student wound up getting corrupted, killing a bunch of people, and sending Luke into exile. That's quite a lot to come back from, and I'm sure we'll witness a lot of his emotional journey in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. It's also worth noting that the title of the film refers to him, as he has spent many, many years as the only person in the universe to go through Jedi training and remain on the Light Side of the Force.

General Leia Organa

Star Wars: The Force Awakens was certainly more about introducing the new characters than revisiting the old ones, but the reality is that Carrie Fisher's General Leia Organa was put in an extremely important position for the future of the Star Wars franchise. Of course, a small part of it is her sibling relationship with Luke -- what with him being the last Jedi and all -- but that just generates a fraction of what makes her important.

Certainly more significant than the identity of her brother is the fact that her son, Ben Solo a.k.a. Kylo Ren, is not only the new central antagonist of the series, but also the man that killed her husband and true love, Han Solo. She also happens to be the leader in the largest organization fighting back against the tyrannical rule of The First Order, and is the one giving missions and instructions to characters like Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron. She should play an extremely important part in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

Of course, how that will lead into Star Wars: Episode IX is now a major question mark. When Carrie Fisher passed away in December 2016, she had completed all of her work on Star Wars: The Last Jedi, but nothing for the final chapter in the modern trilogy. We don't currently know how the actress' untimely death will affect the future of the franchise, and probably won't know for a good amount of time following the release of the Rian Johnson blockbuster.

Chewbacca

Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew) and Han Solo were friends for decades and decades, going back long before we met them in a Mos Eisley bar in A New Hope. As the story goes, Han actually managed to rescue the Wookie from slavery -- and in eternal gratitude, Chewie promised a life debt that would see him stay with the space pirate until the very end. Sadly, that end came during the events of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, when Kylo Ren put his lightsaber through Han's chest.

So where does Chewbacca go from here and into Star Wars: The Last Jedi? He probably has the option to go back to his home world, Kashyyyk, but given how many years he's dedicated to anti-totalitarian movements, one can assume that he will probably stay with Resistance going forward. As we saw at the end of Episode VII, he seemed more than happy to stay on as the co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon with Rey, so perhaps those two will wind up becoming best buddies. Considering Rey can speak droid, maybe she can speak the Wookie language as well.

Kylo Ren

Now that we've taken a close look at all the good guys, let's change gears and switch over to the Dark Side of the Force, shall we? You've already read a good amount here about Adam Driver's Kylo Ren, but let's look at things from his perspective...

Born Ben Solo, Kylo Ren was Force sensitive from a young age, and was one of the students taken in by Luke Skywalker after he started his own Jedi academy. Unfortunately, he wound up being seduced to the Dark Side of the Force thanks to Supreme Leader Snoke, and after killing all of the other Padawans, he went after Luke. The Jedi master went into hiding, and Kylo Ren found himself positioned as one of the leaders within The First Order. His number one mission above all else is to see the death of the last Jedi -- which he still believes was the ultimate goal of his grandfather, Darth Vader.

Kylo Ren comes close to finding Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, but after meeting the duo of Finn and Rey, he walked away empty handed and sporting a brand new scar on his face (at least it's a legitimate reason for him to wear his mask). His quest to kill Luke certainly isn't over -- especially now that he has killed Han Solo -- but it is worth noting that he is a guy filled with inner conflict, and uses his connection to the Dark Side of the Force to control the light within him.

DJ

Star Wars: The Force Awakens had no shortage of bad guys to root against -- from Kylo Ren to General Hux to Captain Phasma to Supreme Leader Snoke (more on all of them in a bit) -- but it seems that there will be yet another new antagonist introduced to the Star Wars universe in The Last Jedi. In July of 2015, it was reported that Benicio Del Toro was offered a key villain role in Rian Johnson's upcoming film. Since then we've learned that he will be playing a character named DJ, but very little has been revealed about him beyond that. He's only been featured fleetingly in the marketing, so it seems that his full impact on the movie will only be shown up on the big screen.

Captain Phasma

Given that she was played by the incredibly likable Game of Thrones star Gwendoline Christie, Captain Phasma emerged as one of the most exciting new characters in Star Wars: The Force Awakens during its marketing campaign... but we were all really let down. The character doesn't really do much of anything in the movie, and has earned negative comparisons to Boba Fett (looks seriously cool, but doesn't actually have an active role).

Fortunately, the door is open for the character to be seriously expanded in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The fate of the chrome-covered Stormtrooper was a bit unclear at the end of The Force Awakens - dropped into a garbage compactor somewhere in the Starkiller Base -- but it's not impossible to believe that she could have escaped before the whole place blew up. If that's the case (and we've certainly heard rumors that suggest that it is), then hopefully Rian Johnson will take full advantage. Similar to how practically everyone is looking for some kind of payback against Kylo Ren, Phasma probably isn't too happy with the heroes who left her for dead in a garbage chute.

General Hux

General Hux (Domhnall Gleeson) is clearly a very important part of The First Order in Star Wars: The Force Awakens - given that he is regularly seen barking orders, and is specifically carted away by Supreme Leader Snoke before the Starkiller Base can be destroyed. That being said, we really don't know anything about him. He clearly takes a good amount of pleasure in his rank, but nothing has been revealed about his past or why he wound up joining the post-Empire bad guys in the Star Wars universe. Given that he survived the events of the first movie, Rian Johnson will at least have the opportunity to give him a bit more of the spotlight and possibly provide him with a bit more backstory.

Supreme Leader Snoke

If you were disappointed by Supreme Leader Snoke in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, know that you're not alone. The character is supposed to be the ultimate new big bad in the Star Wars franchise, and he's played by performance capture legend Andy Serkis, but he doesn't actually do anything in the J.J. Abrams film beyond show up as a giant, seated hologram and ask for updates about what's going on with The First Order. This would be especially lame if there wasn't any guarantee for a sequel, but thankfully that's not the case.

At the controls of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Rian Johnson now has the chance to really deliver us a full-on look at Snoke (hopefully not in hologram form), and give Serkis something to do. Presumably he is a master of the Dark Side of the Force, and the truth is that we'll never get sick of seeing that on the big screen. After how lame the ultimate villain appeared in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, hopefully he gets fully redeemed in the next chapter.

Maz Kanata

Played by Oscar winner Lupita Nyong'o, Maz Kanata certainly ranks as one of the weirdest new individuals introduced to the Star Wars universe in The Force Awakens, but she's also one of the most exciting. She is easily one of the oldest characters in the fictional universe (ranking alongside Yoda), and she manages to come across as both cute and wise simultaneously (not the easiest thing to do). Perhaps most importantly, though, is the fact that her age has given her a lot of knowledge, and it's very clear that she knows a hell of a lot more than just what's revealed in the 2015 blockbuster.

It should be noted that there's no guarantee that Maz Kanata will return in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, given that she mostly played a bit role in The Force Awakens - but the smart money says that she will be back. After all, she still has to help answer one of the biggest lingering mysteries from J.J. Abrams' movie: where did she find the lightsaber that once belonged to both Anakin and Luke Skywalker?

The Droids

First there was Luke, Leia and Han, and now we not only have Finn, Rey, and Poe, but also the droid triumvirate that includes legends C-3PO (Anthony Daniels), R2-D2, and the newcomer BB-8. The ball droid certainly got the most action in Star Wars: The Force Awakens - riding around in Poe's X-Wing and carrying around the movie's big MacGuffin -- but 3PO and R2 had their roles to play as well. Both of them are still on the side of good as part of the Resistance (albeit while R2 remains in a low power state).

We don't really know how all of the droids will fit into the events of Star Wars: Episode VIII, but we fully expect their roles to, at the very least, be expanded. Given his immense popularity, BB-8 will probably still be rolling around with Poe and his pals, and both R2-D2 and C-3PO will probably be absolutely thrilled that Luke Skywalker is back in the picture. The story of Star Wars has arguably always been told through the perspective of the droids, and it's hard to imagine the new movies breaking from that tradition.

Rose Tico

Star Wars: The Force Awakens obviously introduced fans to a lot of great new heroes, but Star Wars: The Last Jedi will be getting in on that action as well. Soon audiences will be getting to know Rose Tico, who is played in the movie by Kelly Marie Tran. Because of the secrecy surrounding the project, there isn't a great deal of information publicly available about the character, though we do know that she is a maintenance worker who fights for The Resistance, and that she has a sister who is also a dedicated member of the cause.

With Justice League in the rear view, there is one more major blockbuster set to arrive before 2017 ends. Rian Johnson's Star Wars: The Last Jedi is set to arrive this month, continuing the main narrative of the Star Wars franchise following J.J. Abrams' Force Awakens. While generations of fans are eager to see Mark Hamill's Luke Skywalker and the trio of new heroes return to the silver screen, the villains are set to return and continue their stories as well. Kylo Ren and General Hux made up the biggest villains in the last film, and now we know what to expect from the duo's rivalry. Actor Domhnall Gleeson recently teased this, saying:

It looks like it's not all peaches and cream over at The First Order. General Hux and Kylo Ren suffered a major loss during The Force Awakens, as Starkiller Base was destroyed by the Resistance, with the help of Finn and Han Solo. And with Snoke appearing in the flesh to sort things out in the sequel, the competition for their master's approval will reach a fever pitch.

Domhnall Gleeson comments to Empire seem to tease big things for his character in The Last Jedi. Hux's instability was seen a few times in The Force Awakens, especially during his passionate and Hitler-esque speech on Starkiller Base to the First Order troops. And when he and Kylo Ren spoke to a giant hologram of Snoke, the two began to quarrel and place blame about the various missteps they'd already had. And thing will only get worse in the wake of the destruction of the First Order's super weapon.

It should be interesting to see exactly what bad decisions General Hux makes during the events of The Last Jedi. In the recent trailers, we see footage of Kylo Ren in his custom Tie Fighter, seemingly grappling with the decision of whether or not to attack General Leia. Hux; however, hasn't been especially featured in the footage that was been released, although the franchise is known for its misleading trailers and keeping the overall plot of its films under wraps. So we'll just have to wait and see when The Last Jedi finally arrives in theaters.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi will arrive in theaters on December 15th. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your trips to the movies in the New Year.

It's a good time to be a Star Wars fan. With Disney now in control of the property, there has been a massive increase in the production of new installments. Tons of directors and actors are eager to join the galaxy far, far away, although it turns out that one of the new cast members almost turned down his role in the current trilogy. Actor Domhnall Gleeson debuted as the villainous (and somewhat unstable) General Hux in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and is set to reprise the role when The Last Jedi arrives in theaters. But he almost passed on the role, here's why.

While many actors would give their right arm to join the Star Wars franchise, Domhnall Gleeson makes a fair point. The brand is so beloved and iconic that it vastly changes the lifestyle of its stars. And while Gleeson was eventually able to regain some sense of normalcy, franchise stars like Daisy Ridley and John Boyega likely didn't get so lucky.

Domhnall Gleeson's comments to RadioTimes seem to break down the sheen of film production, and illuminate the downside to being cast in a franchise like Star Wars. Because while it will cement you in sci-fi history and provide a nice paycheck, the brand's notoriety has the potential to change the lifestyle of its actors. Luckily, it seems that Gleeson has returned a sense of normalcy, at least until The Last Jedi arrives in theaters this December.

This isn't the first massively popular franchise that Domhnall Gleeson has gotten involved with. Before The Force Awakens, he was perhaps best known for his recurring role in the Harry Potter movies. He played Ron's older brother Bill, who joins the Order of the Phoenix after Voldemort rises from the dead. He's eventually disfigured during a skirmish in The Battle Of Seven Potters, and he marries Fleur Delacour in The Deathly Hollows Part 1. Bill's role was much smaller in the movies than the novels, so it's unclear how recognizable Gleeson was when the films were in theaters.

Domhnall Gleeson will reprise his role as General Hux when Star Wars: The Last Jedi arrives in theaters December 15th, and you can catch him in a small role in Darren Aronofky's mother! now. In the meantime, check out our 2017 release list to plan your final trips to the movies before the New Year.

A huge part of what's sustained Tom Cruise's longevity as a movie star is his immense charisma and likability. He runs real fast and flashes his million-tooth grin, and you're immediately on his side. Even when he's ranging from mischievous to dastardly, there's a part of you who roots for his side. It's a factor that makes Doug Liman's American Made a complex viewing experience, as few titles similarly challenge the audience to simultaneously loathe and love a protagonist like the new movie does with Cruise's Barry Seal.

In reality, Barry Seal was a rather terrible individual (and yes, American Made is based on a true story... or at least based on accounts and reports trying to piece together exactly what happened). As depicted in Gary Spinelli's screenplay, Barry was a thrill-seeking commercial airline pilot and small-time smuggler working for TWA in the late 1970s when he was approached by a member of the Central Intelligence Agency. Introducing himself as 'Schafer' (Domhnall Gleeson), an agent puts an offer on the table to the pilot in a hotel bar: providing him the adventurous life that he seems to seek, Barry would run a front with the brilliantly covert name Independent Aviation Consultants (IAC), and use it as cover to fly missions to Central America and snap secret reconnaissance photos.

Even though the deal requires lying to his wife (Sarah Wright) about how he's spending his days, Barry excitedly accepts the assignment -- but because he is disappointed with government pay and is nothing if not an opportunist, Barry ends up uniting with Jorge Ochoa (Alejandro Edda), Pablo Escobar (Mauricio Mejia) and the Medellín Cartel to start smuggling cocaine out of Colombia and into the United States. This activity fails to slip past the nose of the U.S. government, but still Barry's status is nonetheless raised, the size of his operation is increased, and he ultimately finds himself heavily involved with the start of the Iran-Contra affair, also known as one of the most controversial political scandals in American history.

While relatively short, clocking in at just under two hours, American Made is very much built to essentially be Doug Liman's Goodfellas -- chronicling the epic rise and fall of a criminal enterprise that generated insane cash flow and good times in addition to serious danger and terrifying violence. It's a natural story for cinema, full of enough extreme ups and downs and stranger-than-fiction events to trip out any audiences unfamiliar with the reality that inspired it, and it opens up Doug Liman to a sense of style not really seen before in his movies -- with lots of bold color and strong cinema verite influences providing an almost documentary-esque feel. It's easy to see the motivation to bringing the tale to the big screen in this sense, even while the storytelling feels hampered by its semi-glorification of its central figure.

American Made marks the second collaboration between Tom Cruise and Doug Liman after Edge of Tomorrow, but while it was great to watch Cruise become the fictional slimy jerk Lt. Col. Bill Cage in that movie, it's questionable if he was the appropriate choice for this feature. Because the film relishes so much in the insanity of its true story and the unfettered criminal activity that was allowed to persist, it never takes any time to look at all the people hurt by what Barry Seal was doing, and as a result doesn't take a judgmental stance on him beyond whether or not he is an interesting character. It doesn't even have a strong authority figure trying vigilantly to bring him down. Add in Cruise's presence and aforementioned charisma, however, and it winds up tilting the scales in the wrong direction -- and the result is that you have a lot of fun watching him in the moment (playing the government for fools, making so much money he can't even hide it on his massive property), but are left with an unfortunate after taste in your mouth while leaving the theater.

The politics inherently tied up in the story make American Made a challenging film to recommend, but supplemented with appropriate extra research about the subject matter, I think it can be. After all, at the end of the day, it has one hell of a story to tell, and tells it in a visually arresting way, and sometimes that's enough for a proper cinematic experience.

The Star Wars franchise has undergone some pretty substantial changes over the course of the last few months. These shifts started during the summer when Phil Lord and Chris Miller were replaced by Ron Howard on the Han Solo spinoff movie, and continued earlier this month when Colin Trevorrow found himself replaced by J.J. Abrams on Star Wars: Episode IX after parting ways with Lucasfilm. The decision to bring The Force Awakens director back has spurred a variety of responses online, but now it looks like General Hux actor Domhnall Gleeson is excited about the development. The actor opened up while promoting American Made and explained:

Though the fan reaction to J.J. Abrams' return to Star Wars for Episode IX has been mixed (depending on where you look online), Domhnall Gleeson's comments to IGN arguably underscore exactly why it is a good idea. Abrams has a proven track record of delivering satisfying science fiction, and after Lucasfilm's recent issues with some of its directors, he could provide an invaluable sense of stability that an unknown quantity would not afford. Beyond all of that, he has developed a rapport with the core cast of performers, which means the returning actors (which may or may not include Gleeson, depending on the events of The Last Jedi) working on Episode IX will know how to work with him the moment cameras begin rolling.

This mentality also seems echoed by the rumor that Lucasfilm initially wanted The Last Jedi director Rian Johnson to step in for Episode IX once the call came in announcing that Colin Trevorrow had left the project. The validity of that rumor has been conflicting (at best) since Trevorrow's departure, but the hiring of Abrams seems to solidify the idea that the studio wants to embrace a trusted colleague with the final leg of this new Star Wars trilogy.

Despite the relatively smooth transition from Colin Trevorrow to J.J. Abrams, there have still been a few speed bumps on the road to getting Episode IX made. Although the ninth (excluding spinoffs like Rogue One: A Star Wars Story or Han Solo) film was meant to bring the main Star Wars franchise back to summer with a May release, Episode IX will now receive a seven-month delay and debut in theaters on December 20, 2019 -- continuing the trend of winter releases. That said, with an extra seven months to work on the project, all eyes are now on J.J. Abrams to once again bring this franchise home.

We still have quite a while until Episode IX debuts on the big screen, so only time will tell how the project will come together. Until then, make sure to check out Star Wars: The Last Jedi when Rian Johnson's sci-fi/fantasy epic debuts in theaters later this year on December 15.

Of all the new characters that we were introduced to in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, one of those that seems to have been overlooked is General Hux. Where exactly did he come from and how did he fall into becoming part of The First Order? A new Star Wars prequel novel has been released which explains a great deal about this unique character. It appears to have completely explained everything about this terrifying villain. You'd be a diabolical monster too if you had to grow up with a first name like Armitage.

General Hux was played well by Domhnall Gleason. True, fans had many more unanswered questions about who Supreme Leader Snoke really was, and why Kylo Ren was such an emo brat. In comparison, General Hux seemed to fall by the wayside. However, he was certainly as evil as the rest of them. Star Wars: The Force Awakens showed us it was he who implemented the Stormtrooper recruitment and brainwashing program. It turns out this may have all been a desperate plea to forget his own past. In the new Star Wars novel, Aftermath: Life Debt by Chuck Wendig, we gain some interesting backstory into the life of General Hux. Hux is the illegitimate son of an Imperial officer and a kitchen servant. We have to assume his parents hated him from birth, because they named the boy Armitage. No wonder, the guy is so vile. He probably got into a lot of fights on the Imperial schoolyard.

While Hux may have had meek beginnings, he did eventually grow up to become a formidable man. He's the leader of the military side of The First Order and reports directly to Supreme Leader Snoke. We'd guess he certainly achieved a career of much greater importance than he was expected to. It makes sense, though, doesn't it? Watching Hux you get a distinct impression that he doesn't quite feel like he belongs there. He seems to be afraid that at any moment somebody will discover his true history and he'll be laughed out of the room.

We're certainly excited to see more from Domhnall Gleason in Star Wars: Episode VIII. This new backstory does give us a bit of insight into the character, and now we're even more curious where General Hux will go from here. It's noble, in its own way, that Hux was able to make something great of himself, even if he did decide to follow in his father's footsteps and join the most evil people in the galaxy.

Getting ahead in Hollywood requires extreme diligence and the willingness to break new ground with the roles one takes. Few actors seem to understand that better that Domhnall Gleeson. Over the last year, the actor has appeared in numerous Hollywood films, including Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Despite his busy schedule with the upcoming Star Wars: Episode VIII, it now seems that the young actor has signed on for a major part in an upcoming Netflix biopic about the founding of iconic humor magazine National Lampoon.

A new report from THR indicates that Gleeson has joined the project, titled A Futile and Stupid Gesture. The film – directed by Wet Hot American Summer's David Wain – will follow the dark story of Doug Kenney, who founded the legendary humor magazine with Henry Beard and Robert Hoffman shortly before his mysterious death in the 1980.

Saturday Night Live alum Will Forte has already signed onto the project to portray Doug Kenney – a role which will allow the career funnyman to stretch his dramatic muscles a bit more than he’s used to. Gleeson will portray Kenney's friend and associate Henry Beard, who would go on to become a best-selling author following the founding of the magazine. Although Gleeson has committed to the production of Star Wars: Episode VIII, it seems that all parties involved have made concessions allowing him to participate in both films.

We have to tip our hats to Domhnall Gleeson, who has time and time again proven himself as one of the most hard working up and comers in Hollywood today. Not content with relying on the benefits of nepotism – his father is powerhouse actor Brendan Gleeson – Domhnall has shown himself unafraid of trying out different genres and roles during his career.

Just in the last year, he has had substantial parts in acclaimed films such as The Revenant, Ex Machina, Brooklyn and – perhaps most notably – Star Wars: The Force Awakens, where he played high-ranking First Order officer, Hux. We feel safe in our claim that Domhnall Gleeson’s agent deserves a huge bonus for the work he or she is doing.

We will keep you posted regarding any and all details related to A Futile and Stupid Gesture. The film will begin production later this month and premiere on Netflix. Stay tuned for more details!

The race for the Best Picture Oscar this year is an interesting one to be sure. It includes perhaps the most beloved filmmaker currently working (Steven Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies), a heavy, issue-driven drama (Spotlight), post-apocalyptic mayhem (Mad Max: Fury Road), and a financial dramedy from the guy who made Anchorman (The Big Short), among others. One film that doesn’t appear to be given much of a shot to walk away with the trophy is Brooklyn, which is a shame because it deserves some love. Maybe it won’t win, but here’s why it should.

Brooklyn isn’t the showiest film in the list of best Oscar nominees. We’re talking about a subtle, understated picture that’s quietly moving and full of meticulous period detail that fully immerses the viewer in the world of 1950s New York City.

Based on the novel of the same name by Colm Toibin, and adapted by Nick Hornby (About a Boy),  the story follows Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), a young Irish woman who, with no prospects at home, is sent to America, to the eponymous New York borough, for a better life. This isn’t a story that you’ve never seen rendered on screen; overall, this tale of immigration takes a familiar arc as Eilis travels to America, is home sick, attempts to adjust, and, gradually, finds a way not only cope, but grow and thrive and make a home. What truly sets Brooklyn apart is a slow of stunning performances at the center of the movie, they sell the story and characters and invest you in the action on screen.

Everything in Brooklyn, obviously revolves around Saoirse Ronan, and her Eilis is simply one of the most nuanced, fully rendered characters of the year. At the beginning of the film, she is quiet and mousey and shy, browbeaten by her evil witch of a boss in a small Irish grocery, a passive character subject to the whims of those around her, and with little to no self-determination. Over the course of the film, through the press of necessity, she evolves, taking charge of her own life like never before, in delicate, elusive ways. You scarcely see the change, until she returns to Ireland and you realize that she is an entirely different person than she was when she left. What Saoirse Ronan delivers is easily the best performance in a young, but already remarkably accomplished career, and she may very well be deserving of her own Oscar.

While Saoirse Ronan is the star around which the rest of the galaxy of Brooklyn revolves, the unsung MVP is Emory Cohen, playing Tony Fiorello, the Brooklyn Dodgers-obsessed son of Italian immigrants, and Eilis’ love interest. Goofy and sweet, he could easily have fallen into a one-note, nice-guy role, but he brings a charm and great depth and emotion to what could have otherwise been a flat supporting turn.

When Eilis returns to Ireland, where she encounters a new potential love interest (Domhnall Gleeson, excellent as always), finds career prospects, and sees a life at home, near family, that wasn’t there before. Tony provides something that pulls her back, that makes her decision less simple and cut and dried. Without what he brings to the character, the key choice at the center of Brooklyn wouldn’t carry the weight it does.

Even outside of the core actors, of Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, and Domhnall Gleeson, who form a trans-Atlantic love triangle, the cast of Brooklyn is strong across the board. Jim Broadbent infuses his priest character with a tender humanity, despite only having a few scenes; Julie Walters, as the woman who runs Eilis’ boarding house in Brooklyn, is sharp and biting, but also funny and warm; Arrow’s Emily Bett Rickards, Eve Macklin, and Nora-Jane Noone play fellow boarders who are ditzy, catty, gossip mongers, but who also have a sweetness, giving texture and personality to otherwise throwaway characters. Then there’s Brid Brennan, as the malevolent store owner, and Eilis’ boss in Ireland, who will make you hate her in just two scenes—actually it will only take one. Tony’s family provides a good-natured bit of comic relief and lightness, especially the young James DiGiacomo as the youngest son who’s way too smart for his own good.

There are a number of reasons to watch Brooklyn and why it could walk away with the Best Picture Oscar on Sunday. Will it? That remains to be seen, but at least the performances should give it a legitimate chance. Regardless of how many, if any, trophies it takes home, Brooklyn is a movie that you need to take the time to see and that will continue to hold up over the years.

Unless you’ve been unconscious for the last few days, you’re well aware that Star Wars: The Force Awakens finally opened and is in the process of taking over the damn world. J.J. Abrams’ seventh installment of the beloved space opera introduced a ton of new characters, some of which are front and center in the action, and others that are woefully underused or that leave us with a slew of dangling questions that we can’t wait to have answered. We’re roughly 18 months away from Rian Johnson’s Episode VIII, but here are the characters we need to see more of when that film hits on May 26, 2017 and as the Star Wars universe continues to expand.

There are, of course, MASSIVE SPOILERS for Star Wars: The Force Awakens beyond this point. If you haven’t seen the movie already, for the love of God, stop reading and check out one of our many other Star Wars-centric articles. You’ve been warned.

Poe Dameron

Along with Daisy Ridley’s Rey and John Boyega’s Finn, Oscar Isaac’s badass pilot Poe Dameron was billed as one of the biggest additions to the franchise, forming a new Holy Trinity in the vein of Han, Luke, and Leia. During the opening act, he does, in fact, play a sizable role, teaming up with Finn to escape from captivity on board a First Order Star Destroyer. While he’s there he’s great, bringing an awesome new school version of Han Solo’s attitude and swagger. Unfortunately, he disappears for the middle of the movie, leaving you to think he may be dead (none of us really believed that, but the possibility was out there). We have since found out that Abrams originally intended for Poe, whose parents we meet in the Shattered Empire comic, to die, but found a way to keep him around. And we’re glad he did, we just want to see more of him in Episode VIII and beyond.

Captain Phasma

During the lead up, Gwendoline Christie’s badass chrome-plated stormtrooper, Captain Phasma, was built up to be this harrowing, menacing presence, part of a three-headed monster of evil along with Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) and General Hux (Domhnall Gleeson). Gender-swapped in the development process (Benedict Cumberbatch was reportedly eyed for the part initially), J.J. Abrams even said she is his favorite of the new characters. But what we got in The Force Awakens is a character who is barely there, leading many to call her the new trilogy’s Boba Fett, full of potential, but with little actual presence. Her fate is up in the air—she may have been tossed in a garbage compactor, and may have been blown up with the destruction of Starkiller Base—but there’s so much potential, and there are reportedly big plans in store for her. We can’t wait.

Lor San Tekka

Lor San Tekka, played by Max Von Sydow, is one of the most curious, mysterious characters in The Force Awakens. Why do you cast an actor of his stature and caliber for a part that could have easily been nothing more than a handoff from a faceless character? Lor San Tekka has obviously been around a long time and has been in the shit. Kylo Ren knows him, remarking how old he’s become, and Leia "will always be royalty" to him. He is reportedly a "seasoned traveller and explorer," one that has "proven his worth to the New Republic and Resistance many times over," and an "old ally" as the opening crawl calls him, but that doesn’t really answer any of the questions we have. Was he involved in Luke Skywalker’s new Jedi training program? Why does he need to make things right, as he says (or is he merely speaking in a general sense)? There have been rumors that, during the heart of the Empire, he was part of the Church of the Force, an underground religion that worshiped the Force and the Jedi. Some have speculated that he could be a reformed Boba Fett, and other rumors indicate a younger version of the character could show up in one of the spinoff movies, like Rogue One. He’s obviously not showing up in the Episodes, as he dies at the hands of Kylo Ren, but he’s still super fascinating and we want some concrete answers moving forward.

The Dudes From The Raid

Gareth Evans’ Indonesian actioner The Raid and The Raid 2 are two of the best action movies in recent memory. J.J. Abrams is a fan and cast stars Iko Uwais and Yayan Ruhian as Tasu Leech and Razoo Quin-Fee, respectively, members of the Kanjiklub, a gang of vicious space pirates. Upon hearing that two of the best cinematic martial artists and fight coordinators currently working anywhere in the world were going to show up in a freaking Star Wars movie, we got pumped. Turns out, however, they don’t throw a single punch. What the hell? Odds are there was more to their presence originally, but that their scenes were cut down for time and pacing issues, but it just feels like a damn waste. Hopefully in Episode VIII, and perhaps beyond, we will see this nefarious space crew get an opportunity to kick some more ass, they have the chance to be out of control awesome. We presume that most of them die in the rampage on Han’s freighter, but they could come back in costume as other characters, and at least Rogue One has the chance to make full use of fellow martial arts master Donnie Yen. Let’s hope they don’t screw it up.

Supreme Leader Snoke

While we finally got to lay eyes on the looming big bad of the new Star Wars trilogy, Andy Serkis’ performance captured Supreme Leader Snoke, there is a lot we don’t know. While Kylo Ren, General Hux, and Captain Phasma are more at the forefront of the battle with the Resistance, Snoke appears to be the puppet master of the First Order, pulling the strings from, well, we don’t know where. We only see him as a hologram, ordering his underlings about. We don’t know where he is, where he came from, how he’s so powerful with the Force, why he has such a hatred for the Republic, and much more. Though he appears as huge in The Force Awakens, we don’t even know of that’s his true size or simply a visual trick he uses to make himself more imposing. Filling a similar role as Emperor Palpatine in the original trilogy, the more we learn about Snoke, the more we’re likely to learn about the origins of the First Order, and vice versa.

Maz Kanata

Much like Poe Dameron, Maz Kanata, voiced and motion captured by Lupita Nyong’o, disappears, only she never returns. The thousand-year-old proprietor of an out of the way underworld watering hole, Maz is an interesting character who has seen a great many things and has a unique insight into the state of this far, far away galaxy. That said, she’s severely underutilized. After Kylo Ren and the First Order goons wreck up her place, we never see her again. We now know that additional scenes where she accompanies Han Solo and company to the Resistance headquarters were cut from the movie—including that shot where she hands Luke’s lightsaber to Leia—and we’ve heard that more of her story will unspool in future Episodes. So we haven’t seen the last of the little weirdo with the soothing voice, which is good because she’s too interesting not to give us more.

Snap Wexley

If you look at Temmin "Snap" Wexley, played by J.J. Abrams’ childhood pal Greg Grunberg and thought, oh, here’s just another cameo, you’re actually wrong. Sure, the director likes to include his old pal in most of his projects, even referring to the actor as a good luck charm, but the character is more than just a throwaway. In reality, he’s kind of the Wedge Antilles of The Force Awakens. Wedge only has a small presence in the films but has a rich, detailed story in the Expanded Universe. Similarly, though Snap only has a few lines and scenes in Abrams’ film—though his reconnaissance is key in the destruction of Starkiller Base—the character is a key part of the canon novel Aftermath by Chuck Wendig, where we meet him as a teenager in the wake of the Battle of Endor. His mother is a pilot in the Rebellion, and he helps break up a meeting between remnants of the Empire on the outer rim planet Akiva. Perhaps we’ll see more of him in upcoming Episodes, but it also seem likely we could see him show up again in the supplementary texts, especially as Aftermath is supposed to be the first of its own trilogy.

General Hux

There hasn’t been a really good bureaucratic dick of a villain in the Star Wars universe for a while, but Domhnall Gleeson’s General Hux could hit a Grand Moff Tarkin kind of plateau. Like many of the other characters on this list, we see the potential Hux has to become a nice addition to the stable of antagonists—you don’t need the Force to be an evil bastard—but he largely took a back seat while The Force Awakens dealt with Rey, Finn, Kylo Ren, and Han Solo. With that sinister sneer, coupled with his prim, prissy administrative bend, he could be a smarmy, maniacal administrative asshole lording over underlings, citing regulations, and basically making life miserable for everyone who has the misfortune to come into contact with him.

General Leia

We knew it was coming, but when we first saw Leia, it was one of the moments in The Force Awakens that made your breath catch. Watching her interact with Han, it was like the last 30 years never happened, and we realized that we still love them just as much as always. That said, she’s not around a whole lot, which makes sense given the narrative, but moving forward, she has the chance to be a huge emotional part of future Episodes. Though she felt it, we never really see her react to Han’s death, and since it’s her son that does that does the deed, there’s even more in play. Then there’s also what is sure to be a complex reaction to, presumably, seeing her long lost brother show up again. In addition to her role as a badass military leader and the face of the Resistance, which we can’t wait to see more of, it’s this emotional component we really want to see explored; she has the capacity to just gut us.

Luke Skywalker

And, of course we need more Luke. For all the talk of the return of Luke Skywalker building up to The Force Awakens, he was kind of a red herring. Mark Hamill has one scene, no lines, and doesn’t do much beyond stand on the picturesque isle of Skellig Michael, turn around, and stare at Rey. All in all, he's in eight total shots in the movie, including Rey's dream sequence where he puts his hand on R2-D2. Obviously there’s much more to his story, but we don’t get any of it here. We want to find out where he’s been, why he left, why he tracked down the first Jedi temple, what happened at his academy, what’s the nature of his relationship with Rey, what he plans to do about Kylo Ren, the First Order, and Snoke, and so, so much more. I could sit here all day and list off things we want, even need, to know about Luke’s status, but that is obviously going to play a big part in the saga moving forward. We just might drive ourselves crazy speculating about it for the next 18 months until Episode VIII, hopefully, gives us some answers.

With Star Wars: The Force Awakens news arriving by the bucket-load over the last few days it’s almost impossible to keep track of what we’ve learned regarding the seventh instalment of the franchise. While that’s true for the returning characters and the new heroes, the same hasn’t really been the case for The Force Awakens’ villains, but now Domhnall Gleeson revealed further details about General Hux and Kylo Ren, including how they're both incredibly evil, just in very different ways. 

So, in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Domhnall Gleeson’s General Hux is one of the military leaders of The First Order, the remaining remnant of the Imperial army, while Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren is an enforcer, who has a slight obsession with Darth Vader. Slight being a huge understatement. You probably assumed that this means Kylo Ren and General Hux are close pals who have bonded over the mantra of, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” According to Domhnall Gleeson that is far from the case, with the actor revealing to Entertainment Weekly just how disparate the two actually are. Gleeson explained:

That’s good to know, but what else did Gleeson have to say about General Hux? Well, the Irish actor threw out the word “ruthless” to describe him, before adding that he has “an air of superiority” as well as being a “strong disciplinarian.” Rather than going around zapping people down with lightsabers, General Hux doesn’t dirty himself with such murderous activities, instead getting other people to do this work for him.

Meanwhile, Domhnall Gleeson even tried to provide some psychological reason behind General Hux’s cretinous ways, suggesting that his villany grew because of “the fear of individuality.” What does that mean exactly? Well, Gleeson immediately added:

I have to admit that while I am so overwhelmingly excited for Star Wars: The Force Awakens it’s a miracle I don’t wet my pants every time I think about it, the one, slight, totally miniscule issue I kind of have with the film is its villains. This is probably only because we’ve seen so little of them so far and don't know much about them.

The line of dialogue in the trailer where Kylo Ren insists that he is going to “finish what [Darth Vader] started” only added to my trepidation because it's such a flimsy excuse. However, I remain convinced that these slight apprehension will disappear as soon as I watch Star Wars: The Force Awakens. And that's mostly because Abrams’ decision to cast Domhnall Gleeson, Adam Driver, Andy Serkis, and Gwendoline Christie in these villainous roles seems pitch perfect.

We’ll find out just how perfect they are when Star Wars: The Force Awakens is released in slightly over a month’s time on December 18. 

Now that we’re now only a few short months away from by far the biggest film of the year, we can expect to see a hoard of new promotional material for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. In fact, it’s already upon us, because a brand new banner for the monumentally anticipated sci-fi blockbuster has been released and it’s giving us our best look at Domhnall Gleeson’s General Hux. Obviously, you want to have a look, which is something you can do now below:

I didn’t actually think that it was possible for me to get anymore excited about J.J. Abrams’ new installment to the Star Wars canon, but the above image (shared via ComicBookMovie) has amped up my delight quite a few more echelons. Because not only does it give us a clear look at Domhnall Gleeson’s chilling glare as General Hux, but it also shows off Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren and Gwendoline Christie’s Captain Phasma, who appears to carrying a bow-caster weapon that is eerily similar to that of Chewbacca.

Clearly, this trio of villains, as well as their massive posse of underlings that you can see behind them, are going to give Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ more heroic figures a run for their money. And while much has been made of Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren, especially since he is the proud owner of his very own modified lightsaber, this banner shows us just how Machiavellian and cold Domhnall Gleeson can be with just a pose and a stare. I for one can’t wait to see what he brings to The Force Awakens with his villainous ways, and you can expect him to eat up the screen with his antics.

Those of us that have seen Domhnall Gleeson excel in the likes of Frank, Ex-Machina, About Time, and Anna Karenina will already know full well that he has the ability to bring an intensity to his performances, which doesn’t negate the vulnerable humanity in his work. However, with The Force Awakens, he should be allowed to go as over-the-top evil as he wants, which should be a joy to behold.

We’ll see if he can eclipse the likes of John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Max Von Sydow when Star Wars: The Force Awakens is finally released on December 18.

What we know concretely about Star Wars: The Force Awakens honestly isn’t much more than a collection of names. But now we have one more to add to our list, as we just learned the identity of Domhnall Gleeson’s character, and thanks to the Star Wars panel at San Diego Comic-Con, we’ve got our first look at him too.

Heads up, things may get slightly spoiler-y beyond this point. Not too bad, but you’ve been warned.

The rumors floating around for months have been that Gleeson plays a high ranking officer in The First Order, which is the new incarnation of the Empire. Or at least they’re the big, nasty faction that arose out of the chaos and infighting that followed the destruction of the second Death Star and the power vacuum after the death of Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader at the end of Return of the Jedi. We now know that he is a character named General Hux and he is indeed a high ranking officer.

As you can see in this first picture, the First Order has definitely embraced their sinister tendencies. Hux looks grim and not particularly nice in his head-to-toe black get up. He may not be quite a mean looking as your average Sith lord, he's no Vader, but he looks none too friendly. You also get a nice glimpse of the villainous Kylo Ren, played by Adam Drive, and Captain Phasma, played by Game of Thrones star Gwendoline Christie, but we've seen them before.

We also learned a little bit about his character as well. According to what Gleeson said at the panel, Hux is evil, like full on evil (he jokes it’s because he British). We also learn that he is in command of a First Order base called Starkiller Base. For those of you super fans out there, you’ll know that Luke Skywalker was known as Luke Starkiller in the original Star Wars script, which is a nice nod to the franchise history.

From what we see here, it certainly looks like General Hux is the big man in charge. Perhaps it is only in his specific corner of this far, far away galaxy, but he definitely exudes authority. You could easily see him filling a kind of Palpatine role in the narrative, where maybe characters like Kylo Ren and Captain Phasma are the ones out there physically battling the heroes, but he’s the one pulling the strings behind the curtain. Or it's possible that he's kind of like a new school Moff, kind of the middle management of the First Order and is at the mercy of Kylo Ren like Grand Moff Tarkin was to Darth Vader.

The fact that General Hux is in charge of a base with the ominous name Starkiller brings to mind earlier rumors we’ve heard that the Empire, or at least this new incarnation of it, is working on a new super weapon, a device so destructive that it puts the Death Stars to shame. That would certainly be something worth of the moniker Starkiller. We’ll have to wait and see how this all plays out, but it sounds like an ominous possibility. If nothing else, it gives us much more to consider while we count down the days until this movie finally arrives..

Star Wars: The Force Awakens hits theaters everywhere on December 18, 2015. We can't wait.

Tom Cruise has his stature just as strong as ever, as the evergreen Hollywood behemoth has lined up an all-star cast for his impending suspense-comedy, Mena. And when I say all-star cast, I really do mean it. Because Cruise will pop-up opposite a number of rising Hollywood starlets for the Doug Liman-directed flick.

But exactly who will be sharing the screen with Tom Cruise for the adventure? Well, luckily for you we’ve assembled a nifty guide that will get you immediately up-to date with the cast of Mena’s previous exploits, as well as their facial features.

Tom Cruise

The Edge Of Tomorrow duo are reteaming for Mena, which will see Tom Cruise star as Barry Seal, a pilot and a hustler who is recruited by the CIA to oversee one of the largest operations in U.S. history. Based on a true story, Deadline are reporting that Cruise will once again do his own stunts, and along the way he’s going to be joined by a cavalcade of stars.

Domhnall Gleeson

The above good man is Domhnall Gleeson. And if you don’t recognise the Irishman from his turns in About Time, Frank, or Unbroken, then you’ll have probably heard of the critically acclaimed Ex Machina, which he starred opposite Oscar Isaac in, and is currently wowing audiences. Still haven’t got a clue? Then just give it a few months, because he’s popping up in Star Wars: The Force Awakens too.

Sarah Wright

Admittedly, Sarah Wright’s cinematic efforts aren't quite as impressive as Gleeson’s. However they’re still nothing to snicker at as her enchanting beauty has lit up the likes of The House Bunny, Celeste And Jesse Forever, 21 & Over, and Walk Of Shame, while she’s also appeared in Mad Men, Happy Endings, and Parks and Recreation too. Not too shabby.

Jesse Plemons

Jesse Plemons continues to be on the most sought after young actors in Hollywood. His small screen appearances on Breaking Bad and Friday Night Lights showcased his versatility and presence, and he’s since shone in small roles in Battleship, The Master, and The Homesman, which is why he has a prominent part opposite Johnny Depp in Black Mass.

Caleb Landry Jones

Cruise will be going up against his very own X-Man in Mena thanks to the addition of Caleb Landry Jones, who appeared as Banshee in X-Men: First Class. Despite being just 25 years old, Landry Jones has already developed an eclectic CV that includes the Neil Jordan thriller Byzantium, the Mark Wahlberg-led Contraband, God’s Pocket (the last ever film to star Philip Seymour Hoffman), and John Boorman’s Queen and Country. That’s better than most Hollywood veterans could even dream of. Kudos.

Jayma Mays

Despite appearing in the likes of Glee, Paul Blart: Mall Cop, The Smurfs, and The Smurfs 2 there’s still something innately lovable about Jayma Mays which means you can’t quite hate her. Even though her CV begs you to. Hopefully Mena signifies that she’s moving onto more serious fodder.

Mena is clearly shaping up rather nicely already with this neat ensemble. But the main attraction is still the pairing up of Doug Liman and Tom Cruise, as the director not only drew the best performance out of the actor since Magnolia with Edge Of Tomorrow, but created arguably the most underrated blockbuster of the millennium too. We’ll expect more of the same when Mena hits on January 6, 2017. No pressure there then.