Entertainment

Inside John Stewart’s Shocking Decision

Please note that this story contains spoilers for “Lanterns”, Episode 5.
The HBO series “Lanterns”, which aired in episode 5, has three more hours to run.
The Sunday episode brought Hal’s and John’s 2016 investigation of the Manhunter in Rushville (Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre) to a head. Things reached a critical point for both the Green Lantern (Aaron Pierre), and the trainee (Kyle Chandler). Hal left John behind to deal with Macon and Zoe/Manhunter on his own, while Antaan arrived to throw everything into disarray.
Geeta Patel, the director of Episode 5, told TheWrap, that finding character moments within the chaos of Rushville’s transformation into a smoking ruin was the most fun.
Patel explained that the marching order is to ensure there are emotional threads in between all of the action. The action is an absolute. In these circumstances, where there’s so much physicality and explosions, it can be difficult to make action look like a drama. My marching orders were to create character and, on some level in this episode, character was fate.”
It’s difficult when there is so much going on. It’s difficult because it isn’t possible to stop and talk about someone’s feelings. “Episode 5 is the litmus test for all episodes that have come before, to ensure that something small and fast actually reflects a lifetime’s worth of pain and experience.”
Hal and John’s explosive fight was amidst the Manhunter’s use of airborne lasers, Antaan’s raid on Macon’s compound, and the ripping out of the heart, and Hal and Antaan’s own battle. John, who had been burned by Hal while the Manhunter ransacked the town and then healed him up with the Manhunter’s lasers, finally faced the Green Lantern at the motel after the dust settled.
They fought as normal people, not with any special powers. John took the lantern and ring after Hal had taken a lot of punishment. Patel deemed this scene to be her favourite of all the explosive episodes, as it encapsulated the story of both central characters.
Patel explained, “I viewed it with Kyle and we began thinking about Cool Hand Luke.” Let’s consider what exactly this is. Hal, who is he? Hal never quits, which is both his blessing and curse. We talked about Hal’s constant fighting as the battle continues. John is provoked by him, as he would rather go down with his arms swinging, than die. So, in those final moments, when Hal continues to get up, it feels like two nations are fighting. John has had enough of lying to him. They are both pressing the buttons. John has had enough of being told to do things. I believe that when Hal didn’t stop and sit down, it triggered John. Now, the battle is no longer between Hal and John. “Those last blows are all about John and Hal fighting their pain.”
She continued: “It’s an amazing fight but there’s something lacking. I thought Hal couldn’t fight this way. Hal and John are not equal partners. Do we lean in? Kyle was the first person I called and I said, “Hey don’t be mad at me. I’m not that familiar with you, but I’d like to know what you think about this.” And he immediately replied, “I thought exactly the same thing!” It’s time for him to kick me in the a**. We want fans to believe it. The fans should not feel as if they are in a fantasy. It shouldn’t be like being a super hero. “He should feel like an adult.”
John won, at least in terms of physical strength. It is clear that the days spent in Rushville have taken their toll, whether it was Hal’s constant pestering or his relationship with Zoe prior to her betrayal. Zoe found Hal in his wreckage before she realized that John had set a trap. After a brief hesitation, she put the gun between her eyelids and stopped Manhunter’s threat.
John took a walk to tell the Guardian (Laura Linney) about the destruction of the town. Patel’s final words from Hal to him, “Was it Worth It?” rang in his mind as he walked. This leads him to his shocking decision that ends the 2016 storyline. He gives Hal’s Ring to the Guardian and tells them he does not want to be a part of the Corps.
Patel explained, “I believe that rings through John’s mind the whole way and is why we wanted that long walk.” We decided to have John walk through the rubble and wreckage of his life as a way for him to take stock. When he is walking through the rubble, he looks behind him and sees that only half his face. This is when we thought he was a broken person. It’s all that is left. He is looking at the past – “No, I won’t go back.” I won’t become the same person that I was. “I’m not going to become the person I was.
The Sunday night broadcast of “Lanterns”, on HBO Max and HBO, is available.

Entertainment

Macklemore Comments on Being Fired From Sheeran Tour Over Palestine

Macklemore responded after being removed from remaining U.S. dates on Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour following comments made about Palestine.
In a long Instagram post, the rapper reacted by blaming the New England Patriots’ owner Robert Kraft for the suspension. He claimed that it was the billionaire who rallied stadium owners not to let Macklemore perform in their arenas, and not Sheeran, or Pink, as they had commented. Variety contacted a Kraft representative who did not have any immediate comment.
In an Instagram message, he said: “I will speak the truth and from my heart.” “Ed Sheeran’s team has decided to take me off The Loop Tour.
Before I begin, let me say something obvious. It matters to me right now. I’m not a victim. Ed Sheeran does not qualify as a victim. Pink is also not a “victim”. Our careers are secure, we have money and opportunities to grow, as well as audiences all over the world. We all get to return home, no matter what the consequences are for our words.
The victims are Palestinians. Men, women, and children have died, been starved to death, forced into displacement, and endured unimaginable violence. Gaza has seen more than 20,000 deaths of children. Today, people are killed and tomorrow will also be. “I want to be sure we never lose that in our minds as I recount this story.”
Ed continues: “Last week, during all of the attention that Pink received and my remarks at MetLife due to the MetLife incident, Ed informed me Robert Kraft had called him. The Kraft Group owns the Gillette Stadium, where we were to perform later in this month. Ed said that Kraft had told him I wouldn’t be allowed to play in his stadium. Ed told me Kraft and other stadium owners had given him an ultimatum. If Macklemore stayed on tour, you would not be permitted to perform in their venues.
“Ed found himself in an unfortunate situation. He was aware of it. He knew it. The words “Free Palestine”, and the Palestinian flag image, were offensive to many people that he had spoken with. If those words are more offensive to those who speak with him than the tens and thousands of Palestinian children killed by Israel then I think there is a disconnect between their position and mine. He couldn’t move past the public face of “I don’t take sides”.
“I understand why they don’t. You can lose money by taking a stand. Money, branding deals, sponsorships and private shows. All of that is gone. There is no neutrality between oppressors and oppressed. “When one side is armed with bombs, and has bottomless military and financial support from America to boot, refusing a position doesn’t put you in the middle.”
His statement appears in full here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DdRdsy0m2HK/
The concert promoter Messina Touring Group has released a press release about the decision to drop Macklemore on September 14.
The statement stated: “As Ed Sheeran’s U.S. Loop Tour concert promoter, we were notified that venues in the U.S. would not permit a concert with Macklemore as part of the lineup. This cancellation could affect hundreds of thousands fans.” After discussions with stakeholder, Macklemore won’t be performing at the remaining support dates.
Macklemore’s set on Sept. 4, at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium attracted headlines, and sparked debate. He gave a speech in which he called for “Free Palestine” before performing his song “Hind’s Hall,” wherein he supported pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
In his address, he told all the Jewish people that criticizing Israel, apartheid or being against genocide is not a way to attack you. My message is peace, love and respect for everyone to be treated equally. Free Palestine, free Lebanon, free Cuba, free Congo, and free Sudan. And free those in America who live in fear because of the terrorist group, ICE. “None of us can be free unless we’re all free.”
Watch Macklemore’s speech below, as he has posted it on X.

Entertainment

‘Crazy Taxi’ Movie From Netflix and Sega, ‘Sonic’ and ‘Stranger Than Heaven’ in Development

Netflix is preparing to release multiple Sega franchises.
Sega’s classic racing game “Crazy Taxi” is the first film project to be produced under this new multi-title agreement. The film will be written and produced by Original Film’s Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, and Sega’s Toru Nakahara. The writing team behind “The Naked Gun 2025” is also involved.
Netflix and Sega have also revealed two more adaptations that are in the works: an animated kids’ “Sonic the Hedgehog”, and a film based on the action-adventure video game “Stranger Than Heaven.”
In a press release, Brandon Riegg said, “Great games have everything that every adaptation is chasing – characters they love, familiar worlds, and fans who show up.” Sega has a rich history of games, and we are excited to be able to celebrate that while also introducing new fans to a variety of titles, including ‘Sonic,’ “Crazy Taxi” and “Stranger Than Heaven.”
Toru Nakahara is the head Sega producer. He said: “Expect a cute, yet cool, game for Sonic, a hilariously insane, action-packed drama, for Stranger Than Heaven. We have some incredible creative ideas in mind and are only just starting. “The whole team is thrilled!”
Sega says that in “Crazy Taxi,” a game which debuted in arcades in 1999, the player is a “fearless taxi driver racing against the clock in chaotic city streets – flying off ramps and dodging traffic while chasing the tips in a punk rock energy, the signature of the series.” In 2027, the latest game in the series “Crazy Taxi: World Tour” is set to be released.
In a press release, Original Films’ Moritz and Ascher stated that they were “excited to bring Crazy Taxi to life” with Netflix. This film is for those who have spent hours driving a yellow taxi on the Dreamcast with music blasting, smashing everything they see to get the next fare.
A new “Sonic”, animated series, is being developed by Carlos Stevens with Toru Nakahara. Sega says the show, which will feature Sonic as well as his friends, is aimed at a pre-schooler audience. It’s a high-voltage series that’s comedic and emotional, but also geared towards kids who are looking for a bit of edge and attitude. Netflix is currently streaming three seasons of the “Sonic Prime 3D” animated series.
RGG Studio is the developer behind “Stranger Than Heaven”, which has sold over 30,000,000 copies. In early 20th-century Japan, the game is set for release in January 2027. It follows a young foreigner as he claws his path from destitute to wealthy yakuza. Toru Nakahara will produce the movie.
Sega’s president and chief operating officer, Shuji Utsumi said, “We have watched Netflix treat stories in every format with great care, and we are proud of the dedication shown to titles like ‘Sonic’, ‘Crazy Taxi,’ and Stranger Than Heaven.” The fans of these titles deserve stories that celebrate what makes them special. We know Netflix shares this commitment. “This is only the beginning of what these games can become.”
Sega’s new titles join Netflix’s expanding list of video game adaptions. These include the live-action ‘Assassin’s creed, a film based on a live action Gears of War; animations of adapted series based upon?Minecraft,?Magic: The Gathering”, and??Clash of clans?; the??? competition series??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

Entertainment

Crazy Taxi, Stranger Than Heaven Movies Set At Netflix Alongside Sonic Show

Netflix announced a slate of new projects in collaboration with Sega. These include film adaptations for their games Crazy Taxi, Stranger Than Heaven and a Sonic children’s series.
Crazy Taxi is written by Dan Gregor & Doug Mand. They are the screenwriting team behind The Naked Gun’s 2025 reboot. The game was first released in arcades back in 1999. It puts the player behind the wheel as a cabbie who races against the clock in chaotic city streets, flying off ramps and dodging traffic while chasing tips. Crazy Taxi: World Tour will be the next instalment of this series. The film’s producers include Neal H. Moritz and Toby Ascher from the Sonic franchise (for Original Film), as well as Toru Nakahara.
Netflix is developing an animated Sonic series with Carlos Stevens, Nakahara and other artists. The series targets “an upper-pre-school audience” and “is high-voltage and comedic yet emotional grounded.” It’s “built for kids that want to have a bit of attitude and feel like “that’s my team,” but also “a little edge.”
Stranger Than Heaven is a film from RGG Studio, the developer of Like a Dragon / Yakuza. It takes place during early 20th century Japan and follows a man who goes from being a destitute foreigner to a feared yakuza. Nakahara produces the live action feature version.
Netflix and Sega have formed a new partnership following their collaboration on Sonic Prime. The animated series lasted for three seasons.
Sega’s head producer Nakahara stated, “Expect a cute, yet cool, Sonic game, a hilariously insane Crazy Taxi ride, or a STRANGER THEN HEAVEN action drama. We have some incredible creative ideas in the works and are only just beginning.” “The whole team is thrilled!”
Brandon Riegg is Netflix’s VP for Nonfiction and Transmedia. He said, “Great games have everything that every adaptation aspires to — characters they love, familiar worlds, and fans who show up.” We get to explore three different Sega eras with Crazy Taxi and Stranger Than Heaven. This allows us to celebrate everything that fans love while also introducing it to new audiences.
Shuji Utsumi is Sega’s COO and President. He said: “We have watched Netflix tackle stories in every format, with great craft. We are proud that this same commitment has been applied to Sonic Crazy Taxi Stranger Than Heaven. We know Netflix is committed to telling stories that reflect the uniqueness of each game. “This is only the beginning of what these games can be.”
Sega’s three games are part of a growing list of Netflix video game adaptations, which includes live-action Gears of War and Assassin’s creed films; adaptations of animated series based on Minecraft and Magic: The Gathering; Overcooked competition; the second seasons of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Splinter Cell: Deathwatch and Devil May Cry’s third season.

Entertainment

Oasis Announce 2027 Global Tour Dates

Oasis has announced their 2027 Tour after teasing fans in recent months on social media. Oasis Live ’27 will be a 38-show tour that sees the Manchester group play live in the U.S.A., U.K. and Europe. Richard Ashcroft is the opening act for all dates.
In August, the U.S. includes three concerts each in Boston’s Gillette Stadium as well as Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium. This will be the first time that either of these cities has hosted a reunion show since their highly-anticipated 2025 reunion, which began in Cardiff, Wales. According to a press release, “except for homecoming concerts in Manchester,” the 2025 reunion tour will feature the band performing in new locations.
Oasis’ tour begins in Glasgow in May with five shows at Celtic Park. It concludes in September when the band returns to Knebworth Park for four performances. In 1996, the band played Knebworth Park as part of Knebworth festival. This performance was immortalized in Jake Scott’s documentary 2021.
Oasis revealed the tour in a trailer which starts off atmospheric, nostalgic and mixes footage from both the band’s early days and the reunion tour. After the hype has been built up, the video shifts into high gear as the classic song “Morning Glory?” is played and the tour dates revealed.
Start the celebrations! The band released a press release. After a period for reflection, ‘The most damaging pop cultural force in recent British history’ declared themselves fit to purpose. They will return once more to raise the spirits of people. Witness the fitness. “It will be an amazing sight.”
Only fans registered on the website of Oasis Live will have access to tickets. Registration must be completed by Thursday, September 17, 11 am ET. ET. The fans who have been successful in the lottery will receive a non-transferable, unique code that allows them to enter a specific on-sale period. The U.S. On-Sale Windows will differ by city, and take place Friday, September 25.
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Oasis released their new documentary Don’t Look back in Anger which documents the reunion. Steven Knight from Peaky Blinders created it, while Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace directed the film.

Entertainment

SkyShowtime May Shut Down as Comcast and Paramount Weigh Options

The Hollywood Reporter learned that Comcast and Paramount Skydance will launch a review of their strategic options for SkyShowtime, the European streaming service they have created in joint venture with Skydance.
Although no decision has been taken yet, closing down the company is an option.
In a letter seen by THR, the board of SkyShowtime’s JV informed Monty Sarhan Monday of its strategic review. Sarhan then shared the document with his staff.
SkyShowtime is in one of our most competitive industries. The board stated that despite the great work done by the team, as well as the success of what they have created, the market continues to change rapidly and is still very challenging. SkyShowtime shareholders have begun a strategic review for the company, including the possible winding down. All options are still being considered. No decision has been taken.
SkyShowtime combines the content of NBCUniversal, Sky Studios and Paramount. This service effectively offers the combined programming power of Peacock+ and Paramount+ for the U.S.
It was announced in 2005 and currently serves over 20 countries across Europe. Sarhan stated that SkyShowtime has “several millions subscribers” and is still growing.
“We are able to compete on a par with the largest players in the industry.”
The media landscape is changing rapidly (when David Ellison formed the JV, he had yet to purchase Paramount and now he wants to buy Warner Bros. Discovery) and media giants are reevaluating their streaming strategy, it may be that the experiment is nearing an end.
Sarhan’s note for SkyShowtime staff stated: “I understand that this news can create uncertainty. My priority, and the team of leaders, will be to support you all as we figure out what is next. We have built a culture and community that is based on empathy, innovation, and opportunity. We will continue to support each other, no matter what comes next.
In its letter to SkyShowtime, the board noted that both companies were taking time to determine what their best course of action would be.
We know that the SkyShowtime Team is the one who will be most affected by this. The board stated that this update was the start of a dialog, and not its end. The service will continue to be provided as usual for both customers and partners. All roles remain unchanged. We ask the team to remain focused at this point on providing our audiences with the same quality service and programming that you all have delivered so expertly over the years and maintain momentum in the operating business until 2027.
It continued, “Where we believe that any proposed change could have an impact on employees, then we will adhere to the required information and consultation process in our respective markets.” After these conversations, final decisions will be taken.