The Geek Twins

Review: MURDERBOT S01E05 “Rogue War Tracker Infinite”

Maurice Mitchell — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 21:36:06 +0000

Read this review to see if the Murderbot episode “Rogue War Tracker Infinite” is worth watching

About Murderbot

Season 1, Episode 5: “Rogue War Tracker Infinite”
Directed by Paul Weitz
Written by Paul Weitz & Chris Weitz
Synopsis: PresAux pulls out all the stops to forge a path forward. Tensions mount when trust is tested – and a DeltFall survivor joins the fold.
Airdate: June 06, 2025
Starring: Alexander Skarsgård, Noma Dumezweni, David Dastmalchian, Sabrina Wu, Akshay Khanna, Tamara Podemski, Tattiawna Jones, and Anna Konkle

If you want to avoid spoilers for this episode, skip to the overall section at the end.

Warning: Spoilers for Murderbot Season 1 Episode 5 “Rogue War Tracker Infinite”

Recap Murderbot (2025) “Rogue War Tracker Infinite”

The biggest question left to be answered in this episode is “Does MurderBot have a penis?” The SecUnit, built with organic materials, lacks a penis, but Leebeebee, the lone survivor of the DeltFall habitat catastrophe, daydreams about his hypothetical penis.

“I mean, to be honest, it’s not unattractive,” she says. “Do you think it has a pee-pee? Guess it doesn’t really need one. Can you imagine if it did have one, though? And then could kind of go to any length you wanted it to. Press the balls to vibrate. And then kind of could turn or go in any sort of direction, like a big worm. As deep as you want. I don’t know. It’s just something I can picture, but you probably haven’t thought about that. But maybe you have. I don’t know.”

The only survivor, covered in the blood of her fellow corporate employees, recounts the events that led to the murder of Murderbot. She imagines a hentai hookup with Murderbot, a character who could go to any length and turn as she wanted. The protagonist is the only member of her team left alive and is excited about the potential for a thrilling encounter with Murderbot. That’s hilarious.

The six-person team discovers that Murderbot has jailbroken its operating system, shutting down its governor module. Despite Gurathin’s troubled history with SecUnits, his teammates defend the robot, as it has been with them since following orders and saving their lives. The robot tried to kill itself instead of being forced to do so, as the evil SecUnit had reprogrammed it. “Seccy” (as Ratthi calls him) may technically have gone rogue, but it’s not a threat to them in itself.

The security robot is not an assassin sent by the Company, as it has had numerous chances to kill the DeltFall group. Hacking the habitat’s core “HubSystem” serves a dual purpose: eliminating evidence of Murderbot’s rogue status and shutting down potential threats. However, the episode’s highlight is a conversation Murderbot has with Dr. Mensah, who shares her thoughts on the DeltFall attack and how the killers pretend to be scientists. Murderbot realizes it’s having an actual conversation with a peer who is interested in its ideas, allowing it to accept or reject them as it sees fit.

The scene depicts a dramatic shift in focus between Murderbot and Mensah, creating a sense of anticipation. It also raises questions about the potential involvement of MODOKs, a mental organism designed for killing.

Murderbot attempts to launch from a distance after they are within flying distance of the beacon. They guide the hopper closer as they get ready to land, if that doesn’t work either. Murderbot’s emergency sensors sense impending danger the instant Mensah brings up the event with Gurathin, presumably in an attempt to calm Murderbot down and ensure her friend’s safety. When Mensah tries to turn back, the beacon explodes, and the hopper is engulfed in flames since she is not quick enough.

Another awesome cliff-hanger ending.

Overall Murderbot (2025): S01E05 – “Rogue War Tracker Infinite”

It’s not a great episode to watch independently. The show is serialized, and you need to know the characters and story to get what’s happening. But it’s a good episode if you enjoy the show.

“Rogue War Tracker Infinite” is the mid-season episode of Murderbot, featuring new characters, deepened distrust, and emotional awkwardness for humans and cyborgs. Alexander Skarsgård delivers a riveting performance, and the short runtime ensures pacing and momentum, propelling the characters into new territory.

New episodes of Murderbot premiere on Fridays on Apple TV+.

Have you watched Murderbot yet? Let us know what you think in the comments section below, and feel free to share this review on any social media platform.

You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Bluesky. Have a wonderful day, and read our previous television reviews.

The post Review: MURDERBOT S01E05 “Rogue War Tracker Infinite” appeared first on The Geek Twins.

11 Astounding Facts About “Honey I Shrunk the Kids” You Never Knew

Maurice Mitchell — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:07:56 +0000

This year, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids opened in the US over 30 years ago. It’s a classic for kids of the ’80s and ’90s.

I watched it 12,000 times, and lots of other kids too. But there’s so much interesting stuff that happened behind the scenes you should know.

Read on to find out how this 1989 Disney comedy became a household name for so many children in the 1990s and beyond.

1. “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” Was Almost Called Teenie Weenies

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Wayne Szalinski (Rick Moranis)

The movie was originally named Teeny Weenies. It was changed to Grounded to appeal to a more adult audience because it appeared to cater more to children. Later, The Big Backyard was chosen instead of that name. One of the movie’s dialogue lines, “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” ended up serving as the title.

He was awarded the “Dunce Cap Award” for 1989 by SPELL (Society for the Preservation of English Language and Literature) for its grammatically incorrect title (“Shrank” would be more appropriate).

2. It Started With A Horror Movie

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Amy Szalinski (Amy O’Neill)

Stuart Gordon and his wife, Carolyn, were famous for violent and bloody horror movies like Re-Animator and Dolls. They had kids and wanted to shift to family-friendly movies.

Gordon and Carolyn brainstormed ideas for the movie, which was influenced by 1950s science fiction and horror films: What if a crazy scientist unintentionally downsized his own children? An instant family favourite was created.

They hired horror writer Ned Naha and horror producer Brian Yuzna to produce and write the screenplay.

3. Chevy Chase Almost Played The Wacky Inventor

Zoom (2006): Dr. Grant (Chevy Chase)

Due to his success in National Lampoon’s Vacation, Chevy Chase was the original inspiration for the script. But he was too busy filming National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, the second sequel, to play Wayne.

Another candidate for the position was John Candy. Although he declined, he recommended his friend Rick Moranis to director Joe Johnston. The Absent-Minded Professor star Fred MacMurray was also considered. Moranis later called himself the “Fred MacMurray of the Nineties.”

4. There Were Giant Life-Size Props

Disney was freaking out about the budget. So, to keep costs down, the movie features giant physical props built by a team of effects artisans on set. They were proportional to the size of the now-microscopic kid characters.

The cookie sculptor, Daniel Miller, said, “One side of the cookie is smaller than the other so that it seems to be going away further than it really is” in an informative behind-the-scenes documentary. Director Joe Johnston said the blades of grass were 35-40 feet high. “We have some very large, oversized pieces of machinery that come down with [the kids into the dust pan],” Stunt coordinator Michael Cassidy said. “Some of them are as big as 6 to 8 feet long, maybe 3 to 4 feet wide.”

5. The Cereal Bowl Was A Giant Tank

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Nick Szalinski (Robert Oliveri)

In the final cereal scene, Nick Szalinski (Robert Oliveri) finds himself in his father’s bowl of morning Cheerios. He pleads, “Dad, don’t eat me!” To achieve the illusion, filmmakers constructed a 16,000-gallon tank at Churubusco Studios in Mexico City (more on that later) and filled it with color, food thickener, and chlorinated water. By blending these ingredients, they were able to replicate the texture and appearance of real milk.

Truck inner tubes coated in foam became the cereal floating in the bowl.

6. A Dozen Puppeteers Brought The Ant To Life

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Russ Thompson (Thomas Wilson Brown)

Matt Frewer, one of the co-stars of the movie, detailed the creation of a giant ant named “Antie” as a beloved travel companion for the kids. “The ant was pretty amazing because he’s obviously an oversized giant ant puppet that was being operated by a puppetry crew,” Frewer raved in an interview with Fan Fest. “It was completely hysterical because there would be one guy on each leg, and one on each caliper. They would yell to each other, and the leg would come up, and the caliper would come up. It was really fun. They were a terrific crew.”

The ant, articulated and operated by a dozen puppet masters, had remote-controlled jaws. Antie heroically saves young Ron Thompson from a scorpion attack.

7. The Flying Bee Scene Took Multiple Techniques

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Nick Szalinski (Robert Oliveri), Russ Thompson Jr. (Thomas Wilson Brown)

Nick Szalinski and Russ Thompson Jr.’s inadvertent bumblebee ride in the film is a feat that remains intense and visceral 30+ years later. First, they used a wide-angle lens and flew a camera around the backyard set. Then they created a giant animatronic bee for the kids to ride on. Finally, they created a smaller puppet of the kids and the bee for more complicated shots. Altogether, the effect cost over $50,000, and executive and effects producer Tom Smith said it created “an incredible sense of flight.”

8. The Kids Almost Had To Struggle With Giant Dog Poop

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Russ Thompson Jr. (Thomas Wilson Brown)

A bunch of ideas for the movie didn’t make it in. As the script was rewritten producers suggested ideas like a “pile of dog sh*t” as big as the eight-story “Beverly Center” shopping mall. They also wanted more product placement by having the kids have groceries thrown at them.

9. The Original Director Was Almost Killed By Stress

Co-creator Stuart Gordon was going to direct the film. However, he started suffering from many medical issues, like a bloody nose and high blood pressure. His doctor told him that if he made the movie, the stress would kill him.

So, effects illustrator and art director Joe Johnston stepped in, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids is his first directing job.

10. Made In Mexico

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)

When presenting the film to Disney, they shot footage in a California backyard. But when planning the film, the studio wanted to keep costs down. So, they moved production to Mexico. The entire set, which included multiple homes with well-kept lawns and white picket fences, was built on a back lot of Churubusco Studios in Mexico City.

11. The Movie Helped Save Disney

In the late 1970s and 1980s, Disney was struggling so badly that by 1983, several hostile takeover bids had targeted Disney, including a well-known one headed by billionaire Saul Steinberg. Movies like Tron (1982), Condorman (1981), and The Black Cauldron (1985) showed that audience tastes had changed.

But the live-action movie was a smash hit, grossing over $222 million worldwide against a relatively small budget of $18 million. This live-action movie helped usher in a new wave of movies, and animated films like The Little Mermaid brought the studio back to its former glory.

The movie survived changing directors, building massive insects, and a move to Mexico. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids was a huge success that led to two sequels, a television series, and a theme park ride. It stands as one of the greatest family films Disney has ever made.

What fact is your favorite? What’s your favorite part of the movie? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 11 Astounding Facts About “Honey I Shrunk the Kids” You Never Knew appeared first on The Geek Twins.

A Popular Netflix Hero is Joining “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”

Maurice Mitchell — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 23:33:01 +0000

is Joinging

With the latest casting announcement, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is finally beginning to take shape. Jon Bernthal’s Punisher has recently been added to Destin Daniel Cretton’s summer 2026 release, which is the fourth installment in the series based on Tom Holland’s Spider-Man.

The Hollywood Reporter broke the news and mentioned that production will start in England this summer.

Since the studio hasn’t revealed many details about the plot of Brand New Day, Bernthal’s character addition is among the first pieces of information that fans can understand. We know Zendaya will return as MJ and Jacob Batalon will return as Ned, but it’s unclear how big of a role they’ll play given the mass memory wipe at the end of Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021. In the film, Peter Parker sacrificed himself to protect the delicate multiverse.

Furthermore, we are unsure about the potential antagonists and the Punisher’s role in this. The character may indicate that No Way Home will adopt a more “grounded” strategy, according to THR, but it’s impossible to predict what Marvel has in store for him or Spider-Man, for that matter. Since the term alludes to a fresh start and a blank slate, everything is conceivable. Except for Kingpin, because Vincent D’Onofrio recently confirmed that he can’t be in the movies thanks to the complicated rights.

On July 31, 2026, Spider-Man: Brand New Day will be released in theatres.

How do you feel about Spidey and the Punisher working together?

(Via The Hollywood Reporter)

17 Best Black Sci-Fi Shows on Netflix Right Now

Maurice Mitchell — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:18:57 +0000

On June 19, 1865, Union forces arrived in Galveston, Texas, to declare that all enslaved persons were free. Since that momentous day, the United States has celebrated the holiday Juneteenth. It’s a significant holiday for all Americans.

In honor of that holiday, we’ve selected a selection of films that honour the struggle of African Americans worldwide and recount the tales of those who battle for freedom and equality.

1. Supacell (2024)

Supacell (2024): Michael Lasaki-Brown (Tosin Cole)

Directed by Rapman
Synopsis: Supacell is about five ordinary people who unexpectedly develop superpowers. They have little in common except for one thing: they are all Black South Londoners. It is down to one man, Michael Lasaki, to bring them all together to save the woman he loves.

Highlighting the elements of the Black experience in London is what Supacell excels at. Rapman takes viewers to the hoodiest of hoods and lets Supacell tell the whole tale there, just like people here (truthfully) boast that there are “two Americas” to illustrate the stark disparity in living standards between the rich and the poor. Except for people at work, there are no extremely stark contrasts with upscale or highly mixed spaces. The series has a grounded reality that is impossible to replicate as viewers see these folks navigate the ordinary drama of earning money, cooking dinner, and getting married while experimenting with their newfound powers.

Netflix just announced that season 2 of Supacell is in production.

2. They Cloned Tyrone (2023)

They Cloned Tyrone (2023): Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx), Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris), Fontaine (John Boyega)

Directed by Juel Taylor
Synopsis: A series of eerie events thrusts an unlikely trio onto the trail of a nefarious government conspiracy in this pulpy mystery caper.

They Cloned Tyrone begins with a pretty straightforward idea, but it swiftly transforms into something much more potent that imparts a crucial lesson because of its witty comedy and insightful commentary on race and class. Weaved through the movie are staples of blaxploitation films from the 1970s. It’s a fun and wild ride.

3. Project Power (2020)

Project Power (2020): Robin (Dominique Fishback), Art (Jamie Foxx), Frank (Joseph Gordon-Levitt)

Directed by Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman
Synopsis: An ex-soldier, a teen and a cop collide in New Orleans as they hunt for the source behind a dangerous new pill that grants users temporary superpowers.

Project Power is yet another stalled attempt at a franchise starring two charismatic black actors: Jamie Foxx and Dominique Fishback. Even with all of its flaws, Project Power is still generally amusing and pleasurable. You’ll laugh out loud at a Clint Eastwood joke, and there are a few striking scenes that highlight the various abilities the drug provides. Even though some of the CGI is a little sloppy, the movie gets better with each minute, building to an all too brief but exquisitely rendered finish.

4. See You Yesterday (2019)

See You Yesterday (2019): C.J. Walker (Eden Duncan-Smith), Sebastian Thomas (Dante Crichlow)

Directed by Stefon Bristol
Synopsis: Spike Lee-produced action, adventure and sci-fi film about two best friends named CJ and Sebastian who build time machines in order to travel back and save the life of CJ’s brother.

Eden Duncan-Smith and Dante Crichlow play CJ and Sebastian, two science geeks who spend their time creating, more precisely, time machine backpacks that will transport the young people across the space-time continuum. See You Yesterday is based on writer-director Stefon Bristol’s 2017 short film of the same name. When CJ and Sebastian experience a catastrophe, they will stop at nothing to save a loved one they have lost. Featuring strong and charming performances from its main characters, See You Yesterday seamlessly blends social drama and science fiction while staying true to its racial overtones.

5. The Kitchen (2023)

The Kitchen (2023): Benji (Jedaiah Bannerman), Izi (Kano)

Directed by Kibwe Tavares, Daniel Kaluuya
Synopsis: London, 2044. The gap between the rich and the poor is stretched to its limits. The Kitchen is one of the only social housing estates left.

Set in a dystopian UK capital where the austerity-fueled housing crisis has reached hell, The Kitchen marks the directorial debut of Get Out star Daniel Kaluuya, who co-directed the picture with architect-turned-director Kibwe Tavares. Izi is raw and gloomy, emotions that come from experience and necessity. The way he (finally) finds Benji is as much a reflection of Izi’s own need for human interaction as it is of an adult assisting a lonely child. In a broader sense, the heart and soul of The Kitchen is one of its most amazing features. This relationship is the foundation of the movie, a solid bond that propels its heart.

6. Upgrade (2018)

Upgrade (2018): Detective Cortez (Betty Gabriel), Grey Trace (Logan Marshall-Green)

Directed by Leigh Whannell
Synopsis: After a violent mugging leaves him paralyzed, a man receives a computer chip implant that allows him to control his body — and get his revenge.

Upgrade, written and directed by Leigh Whannell, is a creative sci-fi thriller about a paraplegic (Logan Marshall-Green) who regains the use of his legs but loses control of his body and eventually his mind after a digital operating system is implanted in his neck. Whannell strikes a delicate balance between intelligence and strength. In addition to being humorous, brutal, and thought-provoking, it also foreshadowed a large portion of Venom’s plot. Several talented black actors round out the cast.

7. What Happened to Monday (2017)

Directed by Tommy Wirkola
Synopsis: In a future with a strict one-child policy, six septuplets must avoid government detection while searching for their missing sister

The sci-fi action thriller What Happened to Monday is more focused on the action thriller genre than the sci-fi. Although it’s never dull, you get the impression that there’s a greater film beneath the surface that aims to explore the more significant ramifications of a society that is managed in this manner. Unfortunately, you can’t find that movie. Rather, it functions like a story about a fugitive on the run, with predictable turns if you pay close enough attention.

However, that isn’t always a terrible thing. Everything doesn’t need to be revolutionary. But this could have been far better than “ok” given the compelling premise and the use of a talent like Rapace. Talented black actors are worth watching, despite the mixed reviews from critics.

8. Don’t Let Go (2019)

Don’t Let Go (2019): Jack Radcliff (David Oyelowo), Ashley Radcliff (Storm Reid)

Directed by Jacob Aaron Estes
Synopsis: After receiving a call from his deceased niece, Detective Jack Radcliff races against the clock to prevent her murder from happening.

In the film Selma, David Oyelowo plays Martin Luther King with charisma and charm that transcend training. The same is true of Storm Reid, his co-star, who gained notoriety for A Wrinkle in Time. Writer-director Jacob Estes made the proper choice by allocating most of his money to a skilled cast of outstanding actors because his plot defies logic, and the remaining portions of the movie don’t require significant financial outlays.

Depending on how much of a supernatural murder mystery appeals to you, your experience may differ, but even though the overall quality of Don’t Let Go is a little lower, the individual parts are unquestionably excellent.

9. Code 8: Part II (2024)

Code 8: Part II (2024): Connor (Robbie Amell), Pavani (Sirena Gulamgaus)

Directed by Jeff Chan
Synopsis: In a world where 4% of the population have superhuman abilities, a man races to protect a teen with a rare power from a corrupt cop.

Starring several black actors and actresses of color, Code 8: Part II explores themes of social injustice, police brutality, and the dangers of unchecked power. Although the movie won’t completely destroy the Hollywood competition, it does demonstrate what a dedicated bunch of performers and directors can accomplish if given the chance.

10. The Old Guard (2020)

The Old Guard (2020): Andy (Charlize Theron), Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts), Nicky (Luca Marinelli), Joe (Marwan Kenzari), Nile (Kiki Layne)

Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood
Synopsis: Four undying warriors who’ve secretly protected humanity for centuries become targeted for their mysterious powers just as they discover a new immortal.

In this high-concept, action-packed superhero movie, director Gina Prince-Bythewood (Love and Basketball and The Secret Life of Bees) deftly manages the various moving pieces. The Old Guard is an engrossing, continuous adventure that will leave you wanting more. It is both emotionally intelligent and viciously violent.

11. Zero (2024)

Zero (2024): Zero (Giuseppe Dave Seke), Anna Ricci (Beatrice Grannò)

Directed by Paola Randi
Synopsis: A shy teen with the power to turn invisible must get it under control to help defend his neighborhood, putting aside the pursuit of his artistic dream.

Zero got decidedly mixed reviews. But, despite all the action and tense situations, the show is full of humor, not in a Hollywood buddy-buddy sense, but in a realistic one that goes well with the heart-pounding excitement. The Netflix series explores themes of social injustice, gentrification, and the power of community, seen through the lens of a young, Black superhero in Milan.

12. Cowboy Beebop (2021)

Cowboy Beebop (2021): Spike Spiegel (John Cho), Jet Black (Mustafa Shakir), Faye Valentine (Daniella Pineda)

Directed by Alex García López
Synopsis: A ragtag crew of bounty hunters chases down the galaxy’s most dangerous criminals. They’ll save the world … for the right price.

Even though it’s not wonderful, it’s better than previous spectacular flops like the doomed adaptation of Death Note, which, like the theatrical version of Ghost in the Shell, starred a white protagonist in a role that was meant for an Asian actor. Cowboy Bebop recruited the proper leads despite its other shortcomings.

Shakir plays up Jet’s fatherly aspect with a genuineness that is absent from most of the production, and he perfectly embodies Jet’s blend of tank and teddy bear.

13. 3% (2016)

Directed by César Charlone
Synopsis: In the distant future, most of the population lives in poverty in an area known as the Inland. There is an elite group, though, that is chosen to live in a virtual paradise, the Offshore. Every year, each 20-year-old gets a chance to make it to the island paradise by taking a series of tests. Only three percent of the candidates succeed and qualify to leave the impoverished Inland area. One of the newest residents of the Offshore is Michele, a naive young woman with no family who has a strong sense of justice.

César Charlone, the Oscar-nominated cinematographer behind City of God, helmed 3%, Netflix’s first Brazilian original series, which debuted last year. The vast majority of people live in misery in this dismal future, yet at the age of 20, young individuals participate in a series of examinations that could grant them entry to the Offshore, a utopian paradise. Just 3% will be selected, as stated in the title. Candidates are sent to a futuristic desert facility to begin the demanding, risky process, which is heavily influenced by previous literary and cinematic classics like Lord of the Flies and The Hunger Games.

The obsessive viewing stakes more than make up for its lack of production budget. A resistance movement plans a revolution, alliances are formed, and leaders are born. Deception, treachery, danger—basically, all the positive things. If you don’t mind overdubbing, it’s best to watch with the subtitles on. While most of the cast is Brazilian, there are a few mixed-race and black actors in the show.

14. Stranger Things (2016)

Stranger Things (2016): Wil Byers (Noah Schnapp), Lucas Sinclair (Caleb McLaughlin), Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard), Steve Harrington (Joe Keery)

Directed by The Duffer Brothers
Synopsis: When a young boy vanishes, a small town uncovers a mystery involving secret experiments, terrifying supernatural forces and one strange little girl.

Stranger Things has been a Netflix hit since it first aired in 2016. The one black friend, Lucas, is a fun character since the beginning (“Why can’t there just be two Venkmans?”). The show has faced criticism for its handling of Black characters, though, particularly Lucas Sinclair, with some reviewers finding his characterization and storylines underdeveloped and lacking in depth compared to his white counterparts. While the show introduces diverse characters, including Lucas and his sister Erica, some critics argue that their roles often serve to highlight the experiences of the white characters rather than being fully fleshed-out narratives in their own right. But seeing a depiction of “blackness” in this long-running show is still great.

“

15. The Cloverfield Paradox (2018) – %

Directed by Julius Onah
Synopsis: A crew aboard a space station finds itself alone after a scientific experiment causes the Earth to disappear. When a space shuttle appears, the space station’s crew must determine if it is carrying friends or foes.

The Cloverfield Paradox has a strong Black presence in its cast, including Anthony Mackie and David Oyelowo. The film has mixed reviews. But it’s still thrilling, particularly since the Cloverfield series gives viewers blockbusters that aren’t part of the conventional franchises and allows up-and-coming filmmakers to get their films seen. This is particularly significant because the film features a black female lead and a black male director, who received support, giving disadvantaged voices a platform in genres that so frequently reject them.

16. Black Mirror (2011)

Directed by Otto Bathurst
Synopsis: Twisted tales of technology gone awry. Nostalgic eras of terrors that might have been. In this satirical thriller series, nothing is off-limits.

While Black Mirror doesn’t exclusively focus on Black characters or storylines, it does feature prominent Black actors and explore themes relevant to the Black experience within its science fiction narratives. The series often tackles societal anxieties related to technology, and this can intersect with issues facing Black people and communities. The show also features diverse casting, with several episodes starring and featuring Black actors in leading roles.

17. Altered Carbon (2018)

Directed by Miguel Sapochnik
Synopsis: Set in a future where consciousness is digitized and stored, a prisoner returns to life in a new body and must solve a mind-bending murder to win his freedom.

The character Quellcrist Falconer, a revolutionary leader, is portrayed by Renée Elise Goldsberry, an African American actress. The show explores themes of immortality and identity, with a focus on how consciousness can be transferred between bodies, and the implications of this technology on social structures. The series also features other diverse actors and explores how race and class dynamics play out in a future where bodies are essentially disposable commodities.

The writers worked to expand the diversity of the roles from the book. Vernon, Lizzie Elliot, Ortega’s family, and Quell are all significant characters. Plus, season two recast the lead with Anthony Mackie.

Netflix is always exploring diversity in movies and television. This list is going to keep growing with original, wild, and funny science fiction from the best black talent in the industry.

Which is your favorite black science fiction on Netflix right now?

The post 17 Best Black Sci-Fi Shows on Netflix Right Now appeared first on The Geek Twins.

10 Surprising Facts About Captain Picard You Never Knew

Maurice Mitchell — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 21:51:39 +0000

Fans of Star Trek have a strong affection for their captains. People debated whether Captain Kirk or Picard was superior for years after Star Trek: The Next Generation premiered. Despite the past, several lists rank Picard as the greatest leader in Starfleet history, and Gene Roddenberry and Patrick Stewart did a fantastic job portraying him.

Here are some weird, fun, and deeply personal facts about Captain Jean-Luc Picard.

1. Jonathan Frakes’ Patrick Stewart Impression Led to Picard Day

The episode with “Captain Picard Day,” titled “The Pegasus” deals with some weighty and dark themes. According to the Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion (p. 277) writer Ronald D. Moore wanted a light-hearted tone in the opening teaser to balance it.

He knew that Jonathan Frakes did a hilarious impersonation of Patrick Stewart, so he devised a way to have him do it onscreen. Speaking of which, there’s a part of the opening that is also surprising.

2. Real Kids Made the Picard Day Contest Entries

The episode opens with Troi telling Picard there’s a contest. He has to choose one of the children’s entries for “Captain Picard Day” (he’s a role model). The entries for “Captain Picard Day” look very realistic and childlike.

Among the entries are dolls, drawings, and other items. Real children made all the items from two local elementary schools and the children of property master Alan Sims.

3. Patrick Stewart Was Not the First Choice

When deciding who to cast as the captain of the new starship Enterprise several other actors were considered.

Mitchell Ryan (Judge Dredd), Roy Thinnes (The Invaders), and Yaphet Kotto (Alien) were among them. Concerned about transitioning from a successful film career to television, Kotto declined the job, subsequently referring to it as a “wrong decision.” The part was offered to Edward James Olmos, but he declined. Olmos would later star as the captain of the Battlestar Galactica reboot.

4. Stewart Was Almost Data

Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry knew the captain would be important for the Next Generation. As the main character of the series and the person who commanded everyone aboard the Enterprise, Jean-Luc Picard was important. Roddenberry was inspired by two well-known Swiss scientists from the 20th century, Auguste and Jean Piccard, from whom his name was taken.

In an October 17, 1986 memo from Supervising Producer Robert “Bob” Justman to Roddenbery Stewart was listed as a possible contender for the newly created role of an android “programmed by Starfleet Command”.

Justman described Lane Henriksson and “the highly skilled British actor, Patrick Stewart, who recently arrived in Los Angeles.” He added that

His abilities are of the highest order and Stewart is “totally believeable as either warm friend or icy villain”. He added that this actor’s “repertory experience and classical background coupled with his personal magnetism would make him a valuable leading member of the Enterprise crew.”

According to Roddenberry, Stewart had to be “masculine, virile and had a lot of hair” to be cast. To persuade Roddenberry that “Stewart was the one they had been looking for to sit in the captain’s chair,” weeks of back-and-forth conversations were necessary. Eventually, they convinced Roddenberry to cast him as the new captain of the USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D).

5. Picard’s Missing French Accent

If Picard is supposed to be French, why does he have a British accent? The in-universe explanation is that French is a dead language in the future.

On the show the original plan for Picard may have called for a French accent, the writers were so impressed by actor Patrick Stewart’s performance that they chose to retain his natural British accent, even if it wasn’t exactly in line with the character’s upbringing. In an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, he says there’s a video of him trying a French accent. It didn’t go well.

He would later parody his French accent in the sequel series Star Trek: Picard as a sinister French smuggler.

4. Didn’t Think the Show Would Work

Stewart was skeptical the show would last more than one season. He also thought the show might continue but his role would be recast. So he never unpacked his bags.

In his memoir, “Making It So,”, he described his first Star Trek convention. He thought the room would be empty or only a few hundred people.

“In due time, I was escorted to the wings, where someone introduced me: ‘And here he is, Jean-Luc Picard himself, Patrick Stewart!’ I walked out to an audience of over two thousand people, on their feet, roaring. And I hadn’t even done anything! I tried to start speaking but could not, because the roar had not abated. I was overwhelmed. At forty-seven years of age, I had stood on stages thousands of times and performed in hundreds of shows. But I had never experienced anything like this.”

It was after this experience that he realized how powerful the show and his role in it had become.

5. Picard’s Pet Fish Was Never Named

The lionfish living in Captain Picard’s Ready Room was never named in the show. But it was known as Livington. Why? The fact that the fish was named after producer David Livingston may have been a difficult in-universe joke to explain. In an emergency, they could have, of course, directed us to Dr. David Livingstone. However, the question is irrelevant because the colorful creature was never given a name on the show.

Ironically, the fish tank was denounced by ardent animal rights advocate Patrick Stewart. Keeping a fish under glass, was not a fitting representation of the enlightened twenty-four and a half centuries.

10. Stewart Did the Torture Scene Naked

Patrick Stewart, a classically trained theater performer, took his role in Star Trek: The Next Generation seriously from the beginning. He took his performance even more seriously in the season 6 episode “Chain of Command,” where Picard is taken captive by the Cardassians and tortured by Gul Madred (David Warner).

Stewart, a member of Amnesty International, was dedicated to making the episode accurate and respectful to torture survivors. Picard is tortured by methods including isolation, starvation, and intense physical pain (there are FOUR lights!).

The actor worked with Amnesty International and watched tapes of torture survivors to create the episode. Usually, these scenes are filmed with flesh-colored underwear, but he insisted on doing it nude on a closed set. He wanted to honor those who had experienced similar pain. Stewart’s experience led to one of the best episodes of “The Next Generation.”

11. Picard Became a Borg Because of a Contract Dispute

Jean-Luc Picard, captured by the Borg, was given the identity Locutus of Borg to assimilate the Federation. He learned battle tactics and ship emplacements, leading the Borg in conflicts. Eventually, Picard was de-Borgified and returned to being himself, using his knowledge to great effect. This happened due to a contract dispute with Patrick Stewart, not a pre-planned story arc.

According to author Michael Piller, Paramount asked the writing team to come up with a plan for perhaps removing Patrick Stewart, who plays Picard, from the show after the third season. The reason for this was that Paramount was having trouble negotiating a deal with Stewart that would allow him to return for the fourth season.

12. Stewart Couldn’t Stop Crying

All good things must come to an end and the Next Generation movie Star Trek: Nemesis was intended to be a final farewell to the cast. It was an emotional time for everyone, especially Patrick Stewart.

The farewell scene between Picard and Riker had to be re-shot after Stewart unintentionally started crying. He later was quoted in the book The Fifty-Year Mission: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Star Trek: The First 25 Years:

“I will say that at the end of the film, I’m saying goodbye to Riker and I found myself completely caught up in the moment. I broke down. Out of the clear blue sky, my emotions overwhelmed me. I collapsed in Jonathan’s arms and felt such a fool. The entire crew watched me cry and then started muttering, ‘What’s going on? Has he been drinking or something?’ But in that moment, absolutely everything coalesced; the feelings that I had for these people over the years. Saying goodbye was absolutely terrifying and agonizing for me.”

9. Stewart’s Abusive Father

But that wasn’t the end and Stewart reprised his role as Captain Picard for Star Trek: Picard. In the first episode, he has a passionate speech on live television. It concludes with the words “It’s not so easy for those who died, and it’s not so easy for those who were left behind” which directly alludes to Alfred, Patrick Stewart’s abusive father.

He was one of the British soldiers rescued from Dunkirk during World War II. Stewart has openly spoken about the violent domestic abuse his family dealt with growing up with his father.

Sixty years later, Stewart discovered that his father most likely suffered from PTSD during the war, a disorder that was not yet fully recognized. Stewart later said he reconciled with his father’s anger and violence against his family.

10. Stewart Didn’t Want the Original Cast to Return

The sequel series Star Trek: Picard was a massive success but Stewart had conditions before he would do it. One of his big requirements was the original cast not returning. He didn’t want the show to rely on nostalgia.

“I know there’s strong sentimental feelings about ‘Next Generation’” He later said. “And that’s lovely. It affects me. It moves me. But that’s essentially not what ‘Star Trek’ was about. I didn’t want for all of that work to collapse into internal jokes about the previous show or comedic episodes or even romantic episodes.”

Showrunner Terry Matalas initially wanted to bring back all actors, which didn’t sit well with Stewart. Season 3 featured nearly every character from The Next Generation, but it was a fight with Stewart.

In the end, Captain Picard is one of (if not the best captain in Star Trek. There were lots of fights about baldness, actors, guest stars, and more. But in the end, Patrick Stewart secured a special place in the hearts of millions of fans around the world.

Which is the most surprising fact about Captain Picard? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 10 Surprising Facts About Captain Picard You Never Knew appeared first on The Geek Twins.

Beloved Actor is Returning to the Screen After Almost 30 Years for SPACEBALLS 2

Maurice Mitchell — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 17:52:10 +0000

Mel Brooks is taking this Spaceballs sequel very seriously. Yogurt, one of his characters in the first movie, was a spoof of Yoda, the Star Wars Jedi Master who lived to be nearly 1,000 years old. As we now know, Brooks has been putting a lot of effort into character development and will formally return as Yogurt at the age of 99 for the eagerly anticipated follow-up, which is scheduled to be released 40 years after the first one. This hilarious teaser makes everything official.

I told you we’d be back
[image or embed]
— Mel Brooks (@officialmelbrooks.bsky.social) June 12, 2025 at 9:15 AM

Brooks, who wrote, directed, and starred in the 1987 comedic classic, will reprise his role as Yogurt in the 2027 theatrical release, Amazon revealed Thursday. However, Josh Greenbaum (Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar) will be directing from a story written by Josh Gad, Dan Hernandez, and Benji Samit, so he will only be acting this time. Although it hasn’t been confirmed yet, Gad is also anticipated to star. Maybe playing the son of the late John Candy’s Barf?

Inspired by the Star Wars franchise and other masterpieces, Spaceballs is a great parody of the sci-fi genre that was released by MGM in 1987. The plot is about the villain Dark Helmet (Rick Moranis) and President Skroob (Brooks), who try to take the atmosphere of the peaceful planet Druidia, but are stopped by the Druish princess Vespa (Daphne Zuniga), hero Lone Starr (Bill Pullman), and his sidekick Barf (John Candy). Dick Van Patten and Joan Rivers were among the other cast members. Despite earning little over $38.1 million worldwide, the movie has remained a cult classic.

For decades, fans have been anticipating a Spaceballs sequel. A sequel, titled Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money, was hinted at in the original movie but never materialized. However, Star Wars was believed to be over at the moment. That changed ten years later. First came the Star Wars Special Editions in 1997, followed by the prequels from 1999 to 2005. In 2015 Disney acquired the franchise and began producing television series and films. Now that the Force is powerful again, it’s time for Spaceballs to make a comeback.

What will it be about, though? “A Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film,” according to Amazon. Not very helpful. However, the teaser also mentions “The Schwartz Awakens,” so you have to assume that Gad and the team would adopt a style influenced by the second trilogy, incorporating iconic characters like Rick Moranis’s Dark Helmet and Bill Pullman’s Lone Star only if the actors are open to coming back. Instead, you would think that the main focus would be on new characters who discover the Schwartz’s power. Of course, we now know that Yogurt will also make a comeback.

According to insiders who spoke to Deadline, Keke Palmer (Nope) will be joining the cast of Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming Spaceballs film. Bill Pullman, 71, and Rick Moranis, 71, reprise their respective roles as Lone Starr and Dark Helmet.

Yes, the reclusive comedy star, who hasn’t appeared in a live-action feature since 1997’s Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves, will once again play the ineptly malevolent Dark Helmet. Gad got Moranis onboard for his Honey, I Shrunk the Kids sequel, Shrunk, but that project fell into development hell.

Moranis took a break from his career in the film industry in 1997. He later explained, “I’m a single parent and I just found that it was too difficult to manage to raise my kids and to do the traveling involved in making movies. So I took a little bit of a break. And the little bit of a break turned into a longer break, and then I found that I really didn’t miss it.”

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Moranis explained that he had not retired from film acting, but rather had become pickier about his next roles after turning down a cameo appearance in 2016’s Ghostbusters.

In a May 9, 2018, episode of The Goldbergs, Moranis made a voiceover appearance as Spaceballs’ Pannakin Crybaby/Lord Dark Helmet.

The main reason we’re excited about this movie is the great Moranis himself!

What do we think of Spaceballs 2? Do you think we’ll get the sequel we’ve always wanted? And does Brooks’ inclusion somehow give it a more authentic feel? Tell us below.

The post Beloved Actor is Returning to the Screen After Almost 30 Years for SPACEBALLS 2 appeared first on The Geek Twins.

A Brief History of Scarlet Witch’s Cleavage

Maurice Mitchell — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 22:51:00 +0000

Read on to discover Scarlet Witch’s cleavage history from the comics to the silver screen. Wanda Maximoff, aka Scarlet Witch, has grown to be (and may still be) a significant character in the MCU. In the post-credits sequences of 2014’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Elizabeth Olsen’s character Wanda Maximoff initially appeared as a voluntary test subject Hydra used in experiments with her brother Pietro (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). In addition to her series, The Scarlet Witch has since appeared in five MCU films.

What is commonly known as cleavage? It’s the narrow depression or hollow between the breasts of a woman. There’s nothing wrong with cleavage. Depending on the woman and the style it can be a show of femininity and exploration of sexuality. But society has debated about how much is acceptable and when.

There has been a lot of controversy about Wanda’s cleavage for decades. We’re going to explore the exploration of her cleavage from the comics to the movies and beyond.

The Cleavage in the Comics

Scarlet Witch was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1964. She debuted in X-Men #4. She and her brother Quicksilver were initially introduced as villains alongside Magneto.

Kirby designed her costume as a red swimsuit in a popular style. While her breasts are pronounced Kirby chose to cover her in a full-body leotard. So there was not much cleavage visible but it implied her sweater puppies were on full display.

Her costume returned when she returned in Avengers #75 back in 1970 as drawn by John Buscema. It’s very similar to Kirby’s design but simplified. Still covered.

The Avengers #126 (1974): Comic Panel by John Buscema

That continued until Avengers #186 when she had her first major costume change.

Avengers #186 (1979): Comic Panel by John Byrne

The great John Byrne redesigned her costume after she was possessed by the evil Elder god Chthon. This is the first time her cleavage shows up in the comics. She wore a one-piece, red suit with a torn cape. Byrne likes to draw his men and women with exaggerated features so Wanda looks like she’s showing off DD breasts in the costume.

John Byrne redesigned her costume for West Coast Avengers #55 in 1990. Byrne redesigned her costume to be more dramatic and reveal more decolletage. The top covered her melons but still highlighted them with a pronounced cleavage.

Avengers West Coast #55 (1989): Comic Panel by John Byrne

Her costume returned to her traditional non-cleavage costume until Marvel Comics Presents #143. In 1988 Reggie Jones gave her a new costume with a black swimsuit covered by a red outer top. She asks Wasp if the costume is too revealing. Janet says it leaves little to the imagination. The cleavage is on full display for the first time.

Marvel Comics Presents #143 (1993): Comic Panel by Reggie Jones

Wanda initially donned a new outfit that blended a few of her previous appearances when the Avengers returned from the Heroes Reborn universe: a red bathing suit with a cape fastened to the shoulders that was a bit tighter than usual. Again Wanda’s cleavage is a highlight of the costume.

Scarlet Witch goes through several other costumes over the decades and they all show a great love for Wanda’s boobs. Especially in 2013 when Olivier Coipel gave a nice view of her jubblies in Uncanny Avengers #5.

Uncanny Avengers # 5 (2013): Comic Panel by Olivier Coipel

Cleavage! You Know. For Kids!

Even children’s television feasted on Scarlet Witch’s cleavage. The Marvel Super Heroes: Captain America (1966) show had Wanda in her classic costume which covered her breasts in a pink leotard.

It was subtle but the breasts managed to pop out in the 1990s animated Iron Man series.

Iron Man: The Animated Series

X-Men: The Animated Series (1996) featured Scarlet Witch prominently. Instead of her skimpy Force Works costume, she wears a more reserved classic costume.

X-Men: The Animated Series (1996)

By 1999 Avengers: United They Stand made her a main character and styled her in a simpler version of her costume.

Avengers: United They Stand (1999)

X-Men: Evolution (2000) mashed Fairuza Balk in The Craft and Buffy the Vampire Slayer together. While Wanda is decked out in charms and red leather, she shows off her boobs in an emo goth girl style.

Wanda’s cleavage returns in Wolverine and the X-Men (2009) but her twins are mostly covered by a sensible scarf.

Wolverine and the X-Men (2009)

Meanwhile, the preteen Super Hero Squad Show has no cleavage but her melons aren’t covered.

Scarlet Witch in the Flesh

That takes us to Scarlet Witch’s first live-action appearance in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014). It’s just a quick glimpse in a post-credit scene but Elizabeth Olsen is wearing a simple outfit. No headlights in view.

Marvel Studios’ Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014): Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen)

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) shows her off more prominently with a new outfit. According to various sources Elizabeth Olsen’s bra size is between 32D (70D in Europe) to 32DD (32E in Europe). With the magic of Hollywood costume design, she shows off a lovely view of her cleavage. Is this because it was directed by that creep Joss Whedon? We may never know (but definitely yes).

Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015): Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen)

In Captain America: Civil War (2016) her costume is centered around her chest. Her breasts are popping out all over and Vision gets a great view.

Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Civil War (2016): Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen)

Scarlet Witch’s Avengers: Infinity War (2018) again shows off her lovely bosoms. By this time it’s getting obvious though. Olsen points out that every other female character in the movie is tastefully covered except her.

Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Infinity War (2018): Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen)

In an interview with Elle, she talked about the costume. “It would just not be a cleavage corset,” she said. “I like corsets, but I’d like it to be higher. Everyone has these things that cover them—Tessa Thompson does, Scarlett does. I would like to cover up a bit. It’s funny because sometimes I look around and I’m just like—wow, I’m the only one who has cleavage, and that’s a constant joke because they haven’t really evolved my superhero costume that much. But then you look at where it started in the comic books and it was a leotard and a headband so…oh, it’s horrible, it’s so horrible. So at least they know that’s not cool.”

But she was philosophical about it after the success of another female superhero. “But then they made Wonder Woman, you know?” She mused “And that’s what she’s in. I think of the costumes and what we have to wear—it’s more about iconic images, because that’s what these movies are…. I think that’s the goal with the costumes, and it’s not representing the average woman.”

WandaVision changed several things. She got several period costumes from different decades. Notably, the 60s style clothing was low-cut and showed off her huge…tracts of land.

Marvel Studios’ WandaVision (2021): Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen)

She also wears a comics-accurate version of her Scarlet Witch costume. In the Halloween episode, she pushed to do a more accurate version. “I was so excited!” Olsen told Vanity Fair. “We have a Halloween episode and they were trying to figure out how big of a nod to the character we were going to do and it did start off with the classic Scarlet Witch costume. It was kind of like a gypsy thing that has to wear a headband and I, like, fought for it. I was like ‘No, we have to go full into it…this is like the greatest thing, if Paul’s doing it, I’m doing it.”

Elizabeth Olsen’s mommy milkers are on a silver platter for her husband Vision (Paul Bettany).

Marvel Studios’ WandaVision (2021): Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen)

When it came to her superhero costume for WandaVision Elizabeth Olsen decided to ditch the décolletage. When Elizabeth Olsen put on her Scarlet Witch outfit for the first time, she provided comments to make sure it worked, according to director Matt Shakman.

Marvel Studios’ WandaVision (2021): Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen)

“She is so practical that she immediately put it on and she was like, ‘OK, I can do this move and I can’t do this move. And I need to be able to do this move,'” Shakman said in an interview with Entertainment Tonight. ‘”We were like, ‘Great!’ So then we have to re-engineer it, because those suits are tough,” the director continued. “I mean, it’s one thing to look amazing. It’s another thing to actually function.” She wore the same costume in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Olsen’s concern about exposing her figure goes beyond the silver screen. Speaking in the June 2016 issue of Allure magazine she said she’s “self-conscious” about her breasts. When hitting the red carpet celebrities are supposed to wear trendy clothes that aren’t designed for women with an ample chest. “The clothes we’re expected to fit into aren’t sizes; they’re samples,” she said. “They’re not made for chicks with boobs, so I’m very self-conscious about having them.”

Captain America: Civil War London Premiere (Paul Bettany, Elizabeth Olsen and Chris Evans)

So what have we learned? While the Scarlet Witch hasn’t always shown off her lovely cleavage it’s become part of her character. That has frustrated Elizabeth Olsen and titillated fans. But cleavage doesn’t define a superheroine and the MCU has made great strides in taking attention away from her twins and back to her character. Will Scarlet Witch’s cleavage return? Probably not. Even if the actress does return to the MCU she’s not interested in sharing her mountains again.

What do you think of Scarlet Witch’s cleavage? Do you want it to return? Let us know in the comments below.

The post A Brief History of Scarlet Witch’s Cleavage appeared first on The Geek Twins.

Review: RESIDENT ALIEN Season 4, Episode 1 “Prisoners”

Maurice Mitchell — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 00:34:37 +0000

Read this review to see if the Resident Alien episode “Prisoners” is worth watching.

About Resident Alien

Season 4, Episode 1: “Prisoners”
Directed by Alan Tudyk
Written by Chris Sheridan
Synopsis: Harry and Robert must escape the alien prison on the Moon, and need the help of a friendly Grey. Meanwhile, Asta begins to suspect that the Harry with her isn’t “her” Harry. Liv helps Mike deal with what he saw, and Ben and Kate deal with Kate’s alien abduction.
Airdate: June 06, 2025
Starring: Alan Tudyk, Sara Tomko, Elizabeth Bowen, Clancy Brown, Michael Cassidy, Angela Chu, Taijah Clough, Levi Fiehler, Meredith Garretson, Andrea Geones, Enver Gjokaj

If you want to avoid spoilers for this episode skip to the overall section at the end.

Warning: Spoilers for Resident Alien Season 4 Episode 1 “Prisoners”

Recap Resident Alien (2025): S4E01 – “Prisoners”

The trailer suggests Harry Vanderspeigle (Alan Tudyk) returns to Earth, but the episode starts with him stuck on the moon. The third season revealed the Grey Aliens took Kate Hawthorne’s (Meredith Garretson) baby, leading to D’Arcy Bloom (Alice Wetterlund) saving her and her baby. The family is not reunited yet as D’Arcy is hiding with the child and getting a little too attached.

The season 4 premiere of Resident Alien opens with Asta Twelvetrees (Sara Tomko) in bed with Joseph Rainier (Enver Gjokaj), a Grey alien who seems to be shape-shifting into a human form. Asta and D’Arcy have Mayor Ben and Kate’s baby, which the Grey aliens are still after. Kate is fight-training with a dummy that looks a lot like Ben, but she’s unable to protect her baby. D’Arcy realizes she cannot keep the baby in town. Asta finds a home for the child on a reservation, symbolizing a twist of fate for Native Americans.

Sheriff Mike has been on medical leave since last season’s finale, refusing to believe in aliens. Even though he clearly saw one and tried to hide it in a bag. He sees Fake Harry in therapy as a way to cope with his feelings. Deputy Liv Baker (Elizabeth Bowen), who has lost weight, wants to help the robot Peter Bach, who is now just a body with arms and a head. Mike and Ben notice Liv’s weight loss but they don’t want to get caught in a trap. The Sheriff eventually does give her a new uniform, and their partnership is expected to change if Mike accepts aliens.

Meanwhile, Harry, Robert Hutchins (Paul Piaskowski), and his kid Bridget (now the “boss of the prison economy”) are trapped in a prison cell due to a mantis-type alien shapeshifting into Harry’s pizza guy. There’s a 40% chance it was a trap but he was willing to risk it. Harry offers to take Bruce (named after the “greatest” actor Bruce Dern), an Earth-loving Grey alien to Earth to escape.

The Mantid (voiced by Clancy Brown) is watching ladybugs go at it just as Asta arrives with pizza. The Mantid assumes she’s into him, attempting to mate with her. Asta is put off by his sexy cigarette-lighting moves. She’s repulsed and runs outside to find Astra, Max, and Sahar. The Mantid takes them inside the house with the Mantis who’s planning to eat their heads with lots of ketchup. Gross.

Just as the head-chomping is about to start Harry busts in. Seeing pepperoni he drops his kid and dives in. Harry tries to transform into his alien form but struggles to do so. Max, who has never seen Harry in his human disguise, zaps the Mantid unconscious.

The group reunites in Asta’s car, and Mike gifts Liv a new uniform. So sweet.

Meanwhile, Kate is questioned by three green glowing alien balls, and D’arcy gives Ben and Kate’s baby to Kayla. Robert takes Bruce to Las Vegas for an Earthling experience. Harry contemplates his new normal, but it doesn’t help their battle with the Mantid.

Overall: Watch Resident Alien (2025): S4E01 – “Prisoners”

To provide a fantastic prelude to the fourth season, “Prisoners” capitalizes on the humor and our bond with the residents of Patience, two of the show’s strongest points. All things considered, episode one was a solid start to the new season, setting the stage for the subsequent episodes. The only problem is it relies heavily on knowledge of the characters and plot lines from previous seasons. It’s not a good entry point for new viewers But after a well-earned standoff at the end of Episode 1, we’re eager to see what kind of antics this season will bring.

Have you watched Resident Alien yet? Let us know what you think in the comments section below, and feel free to share this review on any social media platform.

You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Bluesky. Have a wonderful day, and read our previous television reviews.

The post Review: RESIDENT ALIEN Season 4, Episode 1 “Prisoners” appeared first on The Geek Twins.

Warner Bros. Discovery is Dividing Into Two Businesses (Again)

Maurice Mitchell — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 21:55:52 +0000

Stop me if you’ve heard this one. Warner Bros. Discovery is splitting into two distinct businesses just three years after they first united to separate the company’s profitable studio and streaming divisions from its faltering networks.

“The cultural significance of this great company and the impactful stories it has brought to life for more than a century have touched countless people all over the world. It’s a treasured legacy we will proudly continue in this next chapter of our celebrated history,” Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav said in a statement. “By operating as two distinct and optimized companies in the future, we are empowering these iconic brands with the sharper focus and strategic flexibility they need to compete most effectively in today’s evolving media landscape.”

Zaslav will continue to lead one of the two companies—neither of which has new names yet—that is primarily focused on WBD’s streaming and studio assets, including the Warner Bros. TV and movie studios (including DC Studios and others), HBO, and the recently renamed HBO Max, as well as the company’s video game and experience divisions. This is good news for those who enjoy reading news about unpopular industry decisions regularly. The new network firm, which will comprise several non-Warner TV brands and their related streaming platforms, such as CNN, Discovery (and Discovery+), TNT Sports, and Discovery’s worldwide TV networks, will be led by WBD CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels.

The action was taken in response to the streaming industry’s extensive cannibalization of the network’s faltering business during the previous three years, as well as several controversial decisions and widespread layoffs made in an attempt to lessen the losses incurred there. Warner Bros. has seen some great success recently as it returns to focusing on the premium nature of brands like HBO with the success of shows like The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, White Lotus, and The Pitt earlier this year. Ahead of the relaunch of the DC cinematic universe with James Gunn’s Superman next month, things are also looking up at the box office, even though public-facing decisions like renaming HBO’s streaming platform may have caused a lot of mockery recently.

The split is anticipated to close by mid-2026, subject to closing.

What do you think of the change…again? Let us know in the comments.

(via Variety)

The post Warner Bros. Discovery is Dividing Into Two Businesses (Again) appeared first on The Geek Twins.

The Complete “Andor” Mon Mothma Club Mix Is At Last Available

Maurice Mitchell — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 20:30:32 +0000

Mon Mothma’s mesmerizing, sorrowful dance performance at the end of season 2’s first act remains one of the series’ greatest moments even after we’ve seen the entirety of Andor season 2. True, a lot of that is in the dramaturgical beauty of it all. However, a significant portion of it is in that catchy tune.

With the release of Andor’s official soundtrack, which features the Chandrilan DJ-Droid’s remix of “Niamos,” the club classic of the galaxy far, far away, as part of the piece titled “Brasso,” composed by Nicholas Brittell and Brandon Roberts, we have, of course, been able to join Mon in a little oontz-oontz crashout of our own ever since “Harvest” dropped.

Even yet, “Brasso” has an orchestral build-up at the beginning that contributes to the symphonic, swelling build-up as the title character, played by Joplin Sibtain, tragically dies in Cassian’s (Diego Luna) arms. Indeed, it’s a lovely little composition, and there’s something quite captivating about the way the electronic bass gradually enters during the string build before crashing into that crunchy interplanetary techno. It’s a bit of a drag, though, if all you want to do is listen to that techno all the time. It’s not the same, even though you could listen to the hour-long extensions and other stuff.

Therefore, it seems that Andor has left us one last present while it reflects on its lengthy, Emmy-driven farewell: the all-killer, no-filler “Niamos! (Chandrilan Club Remix)”. And it’s great, my friends.

Even after deleting the orchestral section that was a part of “Brasso,” the Chandrilan club mix is longer than the one we get in the song. It also has additional moments, such as a bridge following that remarkably Mr. Worldwide-esque yell of Ni-a-mos! It’s excellent.

But it’s wonderful that Andor was still willing to give us a small gift in the form of our summer song, even though it was already over.

Are you enjoying the Mon Mothma Club Mix? Let us know in the comments below!

The post The Complete “Andor” Mon Mothma Club Mix Is At Last Available appeared first on The Geek Twins.