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7 best international movies on Showmax this weekend from Blade boxset to Freaky to Run

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Looking for something to watch over the weekend? Here are some recommendations from Showmax.Midsommar, Pinocchio, War With Grandpa, Freaky, Run, Becky, the Blade boxset & much more

 

MIDSOMMAR | Folk horror

In Midsommar, a troubled couple travels to a rural Swedish town’s fabled midsummer festival, but what begins as an idyllic retreat quickly devolves into an increasingly violent and bizarre competition at the hands of a pagan cult.

Oscar nominee Florence Pugh (Little Women, Black Widow) stars alongside the likes of Sundance Special Jury Prize winner Jack Reynor (What Richard Did, Strange Angel) and Emmy nominee William Jackson Harper (The Underground Railroad, The Good Place).

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Written and directed by multi-award-winning director Ari Aster (Hereditary), Midsommar won five 2020 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, including Best Wide-Release Film, and 21 other accolades around the world. “If you’re looking for the scariest movie ever shot in blinding sunlight, the raw and riveting Midsommar is it,” says Rolling Stone.

Midsommar has an 83% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes, where the critics consensus says, “Ambitious, impressively crafted, and above all unsettling, Midsommar further proves writer-director Ari Aster is a horror auteur to be reckoned with.”

 

PINOCCHIO | Fairy tale

Pinocchio, based on the beloved fairy tale by Carlo Collodi, stars Oscar winner Roberto Benigni (Life is Beautiful) as the old woodcarver Geppetto, whose puppet creation, Pinocchio (newcomer Federico Lelapi), magically comes to life. Naive and curious, Pinocchio tumbles from one misadventure to the next as he is tricked, kidnapped and chased by bandits on his quest to become a real boy.

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Directed by BAFTA winner Matteo Garrone (Gomorrah), Pinocchio was nominated for two 2021 Oscars, for its costume design and makeup and hairstyling. It’s also won 19 awards around the world and holds an 83% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes, where the critics consensus reads, “Sticking closely to Carlo Collodi’s original story, Matteo Garrone’s Pinocchio pulls every string to create a visually stunning film that proves some tales really are timeless.”

As with so many fairy tales, although it’s based on a children’s novel, Pinocchio can be unsettling and dark at times. Now dubbed into English, Pinocchio is recommended for ages 10+ by Common Sense Media.

 

FREAKY | Horror

Slasher comedy Freaky takes Freaky Friday to a whole new level when less-than-popular teenager Millie unintentionally switches bodies with the middle-aged serial killer terrorising her town. As the body count rises and the clock ticks down, Millie and her friends have less than 24 hours to stop Murder Barbie before the change becomes permanent…

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Starring Young Artist Award winner Kathryn Newton (Big Little Lies, The Society) and MTV Movie Award, People’s Choice and Teen Choice winner Vince Vaughn (Wedding Crashers, The Break-Up), Freaky’s cast also includes Alan Ruck (Succession, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off).

Vaughn won Best Actor in a Horror Movie at the 2021 Critics’ Choice Super Awards, where Freaky was also up for Best Horror Movie and Newton was nominated for both Best Actress in a Horror Movie and Best Villain. Freaky also picked up nominations from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films for Best Horror Film, the Fright Meter Awards for Best Actress (Newton) and the MTV Movie Awards for Most Frightened Performance (Vaughn).

Produced by triple-Oscar nominee Jason Blum (Get Out, BlacKkKlansman) and directed by Christopher Landon (who directed Happy Death Day and wrote four of the Paranormal Activity films), Freaky has an
83% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with AV Club saying there’s “something oddly satisfying about unmasking a slasher movie to reveal the ’80s comedy lurking underneath.” As Slate says, “As strange as it may sound, Freaky is one of the 2020 movies that comes closest to being truly feel-good.”

 

RUN | Thriller, from 23 August

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Psychological thriller Run stars Emmy and Golden Globe winner Sarah Paulson (Ratched, American Horror Story, 12 Years a Slave, Mrs. America) and introduces Kiera Allen as a homeschooled, wheelchair-bound teenager who begins to suspect her mother is keeping a dark secret from her.

The first female wheelchair-using actress to star in a suspense film since 1948, Allen won the 2021 Spotlight Award from the Hollywood Critics Association, with Paulson nominated for Best Actress at the 2020 Fright Meter Awards.

Written and directed by Aneesh Chaganty (Sundance Film Festival award winner for Searching) and co-written and produced by Sev Ohanian (who exec produced Judas and the Black Messiah), Run broke records to become Hulu’s most successful original film on its release late last year.

Run has an 88% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with The Hollywood Reporter saying, “Dueling excellent performances from a deranged Sarah Paulson and spunky newcomer Kiera Allen make it hard to look away from the screen, not that the pacing of Chaganty and Sev Ohanian’s script allows much opportunity for distraction.”

 

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WAR WITH GRANDPA | Family comedy

Peter and his grandpa used to be very close, but when Grandpa Jack moves in with the family, Peter is forced to give up his most prized possession: his bedroom. Peter will stop at nothing to get his room back, scheming with friends to devise a series of pranks to drive his grandpa out. However, grandpa doesn’t give up easily, and it turns into an all-out war between the two.

The 40th biggest box office hit of 2020 globally, War with Grandpa stars Oscar winner Robert De Niro, Oscar nominee Uma Thurman, and rising child star and Young Artist Award nominee Oakes Fegley (Pete’s Dragon, Wonderstruck), as well as Oscar winner Christopher Walken, Emmy winner Jane Seymour and multi-award-winner Cheech Marin.

War With Grandpa is recommended for ages 8+ by Common Sense Media, where they praise De Niro’s “charming performance” and say, “This impish comedy brings the whole family together with a nod to appreciating their elders just a little more.”

 

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BECKY | Horror, from 26 August

In Becky, a teenager’s weekend at a lake house with her father takes a turn for the worse when a group of convicts wreaks havoc on their lives.

Lulu Wilson (Sharp Objects, The Haunting of Hill House) shines in the title role, with Emmy nominee Kevin James (The King of Queens, Paul Blart: Mall Cop) playing against type as the neo-Nazi villain. Emmy nominee Joel McHale (Community, Deliver Us From Evil) co-stars.

Variety calls this, “lean, mean, nasty fun that will appeal to genre fans with hard-edged tastes” while The Globe and Mail says, “This is near-perfect slimeball cinema – a welcome kick to the head that should also reinvent James’s career.”

 

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BLADE (BOXSET) | Action

Calling all Blade fans – Marvel just gave us awesome news: production is due to start next year on the revival of Blade, with double-Oscar winner Mahershala Ali (Green Book, True Detective, Ramy) as the iconic vampire hunter.

So what better way to celebrate than a weekend binge with Wesley Snipes as original in the cult comic book trilogy Blade, Blade II, and Blade: Trinity, all written by David S. Goyer (The Dark Knight, Batman Begins, Dark City), who directed the third instalment.

The franchise grossed over $400million worldwide, with double Oscar winner Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water, Pan’s Labyrinth) helming the sequel and a supporting cast across the series that includes Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds, Emmy nominee Jessica Biel (The Sinner), Oscar nominee and Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner Kris Kristofferson, Hellboy star Ron Perlman, The Walking Dead star Norman Reedus, and Dominic Purcell (Legends of Tomorrow, Prison Break).

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WATCHMEN | Superhero movie
The 2009 movie (and predecessor to the award-winning series), Watchmen is based on the graphic novel characters created by DC comic book legend Alan Moore. Directed by Zack Snyder (Justice League), the film was a #1 box office hit and won 11 international awards.

THE TOWN | Bank heist drama
Bank heist drama The Town is co-written and directed by Ben Affleck, who stars alongside Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, Blake Lively, Titus Welliver, and Chris Cooper. Jeremy Renner was nominated for an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor and Pete Postlethwaite posthumously nominated for a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor in this Golden Globe-nominated box office #1 film that made the National Board of Review’s top ten list for 2010.

THE FUGITIVE | Thriller
Tommy Lee Jones won an Oscar and a Golden Globe as Best Supporting Actor in The Fugitive, as well as Best On-Screen Duo with Harrison Ford at the MTV Movie Awards, where the thriller also won Best Action Sequence for its classic train wreck.

LIFE AS WE KNOW IT | Comedy
Nominated for two Teen Choice awards, the charming comedy Life as We Know It stars Josh Duhamel and Katherine Heigl as two people who never plan to see each other again following a disastrous blind date… until they’re suddenly tasked with raising a baby together.

TAKE THE LEAD| Dance movie, from 30 August
Oscar nominee Antonio Banderas (Pain and Glory) won an Imagen Award for Best Actor in Take the Lead, the true story of a dance teacher who believed in the talent of a group of troubled teens. Take The Lead was also nominated for two Teen Choice awards, for Best Drama and Breakout (Female) for Yaya DaCosta (The Kids Are All Right, Whitney), and a Black Reel Award for Best Soundtrack. Oscar nominee Alfre Woodward (Desperate Housewives, 12 Years a Slave) co-stars.

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People & Lifestyle

Don’t Take Any Risk – Protect Your Car During Break-ins!

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With the crime rate rising daily, you must exercise caution and learn how to protect your car from burglars. It has been reported that more than 810,000 vehicles were stolen in 2023, which is a high number.

So, if you do not want to face a similar situation or become a victim of car theft, follow the simple steps we discuss.

1. Keep the doors and windows of the car locked

This is one of the simplest yet effective tricks to protect a car from theft—you must always lock the door and windows, even when you are not using the vehicle. Open windows attract thieves, who can easily access the car. A locksmith Portland Oregon, can customize locks for car windows.

2. Have access to the keys

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Always be careful when you have a car. Never leave the keys lying around, and always be cautious to avoid losing them. Always keep spare keys so you are kept in the car when you lose one. Be mindful of not storing the car key inside or outside the vehicle, as it makes it easier for thieves to steal it.

3. Choose a secure car parking

You must be careful when choosing secured car parking. Do more than park it anywhere. It can be dangerous. To ensure complete safety, park the car where it does not have public access, and you can invest in building your garage or renting a garage. When parking outside, you must select a well-lit space, never choose a remote area, and choose a spot with CCTV camera access or any other security device.

4. Never keep valuables inside the car

If you keep valuables in the car, thieves can be tempted to break into or steal them. Valuables, including your purse, any expensive buy, or luggage, are easily visible in the vehicles. Even grocery bags can be enough to attract burglars, as they signal that there are more items inside the car. You can use a cargo cover based on your vehicle’s model.

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5. Activate the car alarm

Most advanced cars have a built-in alarm system that triggers when anybody tries to open the car door. You must activate this alarm whenever you leave the car in the parking lot or garage. With just one intruding attempt to open the car, the alarm activates with a loud noise, which deters the thief. However, if your vehicle lacks one such alarm, you can buy a car alarm from the market and install it to keep it safe. These alarms are available in multiple options, allowing you to choose from various models and prices.

Summing it up

If you live in a safe location, then simple steps are enough; however, to maintain extra protection, install a few devices to prevent thieves, such as a vehicle immobilizer and steering wheel lock to discourage thieves. You can get help from a professional locksmith Gresham Oregon, to protect your car without any inconvenience. Find out who the leading professionals are and keep their contact details on your phone.

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The Psychological Impact of Colors and Graphics on Online Gambling Behavior

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If you are familiar with casinos, you already know how colorful they are. The physical ones are filled with bright buttons, colorful chips, and neon lights. Their online counterparts are no exceptions.

Online gaming and casino apps and sites have kept up with the trend, and you can see that in any such platform. Like just try the Betway Zambia login, and you will see what I am talking about. Today, we will take a vibrant ride learning how the colors and graphics can impact the games and gaming behaviors.

  1. How Colors and Graphics Impact Psychotically Impact the Online Gambling Behaviors of the Users

The web design behind online casinos depends on various factors that can psychologically affect gamers. This includes colors, sounds effects and music, bonuses and rewards, and even user interface. 

Now, let’s look at the role of colors and how various shades can impact the user’s psychology.

1.1) The Classic Red and Green

The bright reds and greens are undoubtedly the first shades that come to your mind when you hear the word ‘casino.’ Primarily associated with cards, pools, and roulettes, these hues give players the casino vibes.

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While red is linked with risk-taking, the greens are related to money and winnings. Both attract the players and make them excited for the games.

1.2) Happy Yellow and Orange

The happy shade of yellow boosts your dopamine, while orange demands attention. Combining them reminds us of the buzzing environment of casinos and the excitement of playing the games and placing bets. This makes the players more eager and excited to play.

1.3) Black and Gold for the Royalties

The classy black and shiny gold background symbolizes special features and quality. These are particularly hit among the rich and loyal VIP customers and reward them with luxury gifts and rewards.

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1.4) A Touch of Blue for Trust

Finally, safe and trusted online casinos try to encourage faith and trust in users by using calm shades of blue. 

Especially for the navigational keys, the cool hues make you feel that each click is safe. It promotes the most crucial element of building successful user relations – trust.

  1. The Role of Graphics 

Along with the rainbow of shades, visual graphics also enhance the gaming experience to a vast extent. These can be done with:

  • Signs, symbols, and icons
  • Animations 
  • Dynamic visuals

The flashing icons, spinning reels, and entertaining animations make games enjoyable.

However, you must remember that the best application of colors and graphics is with moderation and subtlety. The key is to find the balance. The graphics should excite the gamers but never overwhelm them. So, it has to be done correctly and with much care. That way, the gaming experience can become much more than slots, spins, and wins – it transforms into a real adventure!

The design behind online casinos and other gaming sites is an intricate combination of complex psychology, advancing tech, and unique creativity. 

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With the continuous evolution of technology and ingenious creative trends, it is equally important to focus on the psychology of gaming and how graphics can affect it. Along with cool sound effects, easy navigation, and attractive rewards, the proper application of colors and graphics can positively impact the gaming behaviors of the users.

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Met Gala 2024: See fashion highlights and best looks

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The Met Gala’s red carpet never fails to deliver unforgettable moments in celebrity fashion, and this year’s event in New York City, themed “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” was no exception. (more…)

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Social Trends: Elite Prom Night: Ugandan High Schoolers Arrive in Choppers & Supercars

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Entebbe, Uganda – Elite High School’s prom night showcased opulence as students arrived in helicopters, Tesla cars, Mercedes-Benz, and Lamborghini, sparking social media buzz and discussions on the source of such wealth in a developing country.

Elite High School typically attracts attention from a wide range of people due to their extravagant Prom parties. The 2024 Prom party followed suit and garnered attention from government officials. On May 4th, a Saturday, students were eager to attend their Prom, which occurs before candidates start their final exams.

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Most students arrived dressed in their best attire, while some even hired luxurious cars. One student arrived in a helicopter with his date. After getting out of the helicopter, they were escorted into a luxurious car that transported them to the Prom venue.

According to an interview with our presenters, Pam Malaika, and MC Ollo, sources revealed that the helicopter was hired from Bar Aviation at $1200 (approximately Ugandan Shillings 4.5 million), while the car, a V8 2022 Model, was hired for 6 hours at 3 million Ugandan Shillings.

Minister John Muyingo, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the Prom trends, stating, “Are these things happening in Uganda? Where are we going? Money is a scarce resource; it shouldn’t be given out and spent like that.

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Social Trends: Ghana’s ‘Beans’ Dilemma: Prices Surge to 50 Cedis

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Ghanaians have taken to social media to express their disbelief and frustration over the recent surge in bean prices, with some reporting costs as high as 50 Ghanaian cedis for a single serving.

The conversation, filled with humor and sarcasm, has highlighted the broader issue of the rising cost of living in Ghana, including the increased prices of other staples such as gari and plantain.

Read Also: Several uprooted trees cause damage to properties in parts of Accra after downpour

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Despite the serious underlying issue, the posts have provided a light-hearted take on a challenging situation.

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Telecel Cash Now Available as a Payment Option on Google Play in Ghana

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Telecel Mobile Financial Services Ltd, operators of Telecel Cash, in partnership with Cellulant, a leading technology company, has announced the availability of Telecel Cash as a convenient payment method for Google Play users in Ghana. This integration enables Telecel Cash customers to seamlessly purchase apps and services directly from Google Play, enhancing their digital experience.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand payment options and improve transaction ease for Google Play users, especially in regions where the use of traditional credit cards is uncommon. By incorporating Telecel Cash, Telecel Ghana and Cellulant are providing a seamless, secure, and convenient payment method tailored to the needs of the Ghanaian market.

Richard Gesimba, Vice President, Cellulant Checkout Business Unit, highlighted the significance of the collaboration. “Our partnership with Telecel Ghana aims to innovate and deliver payment solutions that address the evolving needs of African consumers. This integration makes it easier for them to access a world of apps and content on Google Play without traditional banking facilities.” He noted.

Philip Amoateng, Director for Telecel Cash, emphasized the benefits for customers.  “The inclusion of Telecel Cash as a payment option on Google Play significantly enhances our service offerings. It offers our customers a straightforward and secure way to enjoy all the features and capabilities that Google Play has to offer. We are committed to enhancing our customers’ digital experiences and ensuring they can access global digital content with ease.”, he added.

Google Play, a digital distribution service operated and developed by Google, is the official app store for the Android operating system. It allows users to browse and download applications developed with the Android software development kit and published through Google.

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The availability of Telecel Cash as a payment method on Google Play is expected to boost the platform’s usage in Ghana, where mobile money has become a dominant force in financial transactions.

This also demonstrates Telecel Ghana’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and expanding digital accessibility.

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