entertainment
The very best in geek and comic entertainment.
Does Strange Things Have A Horcrux Problem?
Like many, I’ve been watching the final season of Stranger Things, avidly keeping up with the gang of tweens-turned-teenage nerds ever since they discovered the mysterious Eleven in the woods. But, unlike the previous four 80s pining seasons where a “big-bad” has appeared, threatening the cast and their Americana dull hometown of Hawkins, whether it’s the Demogorgon, the Mind Flayer, or the Russians, season 5 is unique not only in bringing back a previous antagonist from season 4, Vecna, but also heavily retconning the series to make it appear as though they have always been the series antagonist from the start.
By Conor Matthewsabout a month ago in Geeks
Made for ₹70 Crore, Earned ₹2 Crore: 2025's Biggest Box Office Bomb Had a Superstar, Yet Was Taken Off Screens in 6 Days. AI-Generated.
In the glittering world of Bollywood, where superstar appeal often guarantees at least a decent opening, 2025 witnessed one of the most dramatic box office failures in recent memory. A film made with a whopping ₹70 crore budget, starring a household superstar, barely earned ₹2 crore before being pulled from theaters in just six days. Industry insiders are calling it the biggest cinematic shock of the year, and audiences are left questioning what went wrong. The Star-Studded Appeal From the moment the film was announced, expectations were sky-high. The lead actor, one of India’s most bankable stars, had a loyal fan base that had previously delivered blockbuster hits. The movie boasted high production values, exotic locations, and a marketing campaign that spanned months, promising a cinematic experience unlike any other. Yet, despite this formidable combination of star power and marketing, the film failed to connect with audiences. Within days of release, word-of-mouth began signaling disappointment, and ticket sales plummeted. Theater owners, facing empty halls, made the rare decision to pull the film early—a testament to how poorly it performed. Content Over Celebrity Film analysts suggest that the key reason for the debacle was a disconnect between the film’s content and audience expectations. While the production spared no expense on visuals and celebrity appearances, the storyline failed to resonate. Critics described the plot as clichéd, dialogue-heavy, and predictable, with little emotional depth or originality. In the modern cinematic landscape, audiences are increasingly discerning. A superstar name no longer guarantees success; viewers demand quality storytelling, nuanced performances, and relatable characters. The failure of this film underscores a growing trend in Bollywood: content matters more than celebrity glamour. Marketing Missteps and Hype Overload Another factor contributing to the box office disaster was marketing overreach. The film’s promotional campaign created massive hype, setting expectations that the final product couldn’t meet. Trailers emphasized action sequences and star cameos, but critics and audiences felt the marketing misrepresented the narrative, leading to disappointment once viewers saw the full film. This disconnect between marketing promises and the actual cinematic experience can be fatal in today’s digital age, where social media amplifies reviews and audience sentiment instantly. Negative reactions on platforms like Twitter and Instagram spread like wildfire, discouraging potential viewers and accelerating the film’s withdrawal from screens. The Economics of a Box Office Bomb Financially, the failure is staggering. With a production budget of ₹70 crore, recouping costs requires strong ticket sales, streaming rights, and overseas distribution. Earning just ₹2 crore in theaters represents a minuscule fraction of the investment. Producers are now exploring damage control strategies, including selling streaming rights at a discounted rate and cutting promotional losses. Industry experts say that while a box office bomb is not uncommon, the scale of this failure is unusual, especially for a film with such high investment and a superstar lead. It serves as a cautionary tale for filmmakers who rely solely on celebrity clout rather than engaging storytelling. Audience Preferences Evolving This box office disaster also reflects broader shifts in audience behavior. Streaming platforms and international cinema have exposed Indian viewers to diverse narratives, complex characters, and innovative storytelling techniques. Audiences are no longer content with formulaic blockbusters; they seek originality, emotional resonance, and films that reflect contemporary social and cultural realities. Moreover, social media acts as a real-time barometer for public opinion. The speed at which negative reviews can go viral now has a direct impact on ticket sales. In this case, within 24 hours of release, the film faced a wave of criticism for its lackluster plot and weak script, influencing viewers’ decisions almost immediately. Lessons for Bollywood The fallout from this film’s failure offers important lessons for the industry. Investing heavily in star power and production design is not enough. Filmmakers must prioritize script quality, audience engagement, and authenticity. Marketing strategies need to align with the actual cinematic experience to avoid creating unrealistic expectations. Additionally, this incident highlights the importance of listening to early reviews and feedback. In an age of instant audience response, adaptability and responsiveness can mitigate losses and protect a film’s reputation. Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for the Industry The rapid downfall of a ₹70 crore blockbuster earning just ₹2 crore serves as a wake-up call for Bollywood. While superstar appeal can draw initial crowds, long-term success depends on meaningful storytelling, audience connection, and honesty in marketing. For filmmakers, the message is clear: in 2025 and beyond, content reigns supreme, and even the brightest star cannot shine without a story worth telling. This cinematic debacle may have stunned the industry, but it also signals an exciting era where creativity, narrative depth, and audience engagement are finally taking center stage.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohiabout a month ago in Geeks
How Women Used Fashion as Power in Male-Dominated Eras
History often tells us that women in male-dominated eras had little power—no political voice, limited legal rights, and strict social rules. But power doesn’t always show up as authority. Sometimes, it appears as resistance, identity, and control. And for centuries, fashion was one of the most powerful tools women had.
By Aditya Agarwalabout a month ago in Geeks
MIMARU Hotel's Pokémon Rooms Get a New, Even More Magical Renovation!. AI-Generated.
Japanese hotel chain MIMARU has officially announced the renovation and expansion of its highly popular Pokémon rooms, offering a more immersive and enjoyable stay for Pokémon fans from around the world. First launched in 2019, these themed rooms have captivated guests with their captivating Pokémon decor.
By Bruce Hillma2 months ago in Geeks
Goodbye June - A Netflix Review
Good memories help you live forever. Goodbye June is a 2025 Netflix film. The family matriarch is facing the final stages of her life in the hospital in December. A dysfunctional family comes together through fights, tears, and laughter as they try to work through issues.
By Marielle Sabbag2 months ago in Geeks
Never a Better Time to Be an Indian: Kumar Mangalam Birla Shares Lessons on KBC with Amitabh Bachchan. AI-Generated.
In a rare and enlightening conversation on the sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla shared his reflections on leadership, resilience, and the unprecedented opportunities in India today. The discussion, moderated by the iconic Amitabh Bachchan, was not only a glimpse into Birla’s philosophy but also an inspiring message for millions of viewers across the nation. Kumar Mangalam Birla, the chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, is widely known for steering one of India’s largest conglomerates through decades of economic shifts. Yet, it was his personal insights and candid thoughts during the KBC session that captured the audience’s attention. He described the present as a golden era for Indians, where innovation, entrepreneurship, and global recognition converge like never before. A Conversation Beyond Business The dialogue between Birla and Bachchan transcended conventional corporate discussions. While many expected the focus to remain on business strategies, Birla chose to emphasize values and learning. “It is never just about profit or growth,” he told Bachchan. “It’s about building something sustainable, meaningful, and transformative for society. Today, India offers a unique confluence of talent, technology, and ambition.” Bachchan, who has hosted KBC for over two decades, has witnessed numerous public figures share their life stories. Yet, he remarked that Birla’s approach was refreshing because it blended personal reflection with societal insight. “The way Kumar Mangalam Birla spoke about responsibility and opportunity,” Bachchan noted, “reminded us that leadership is as much about giving back as it is about achieving.” Lessons for Young Indians One of the most poignant moments of the episode was Birla’s advice to the youth. He spoke about resilience in the face of challenges, the importance of lifelong learning, and the necessity of ethical decision-making. “Never shy away from failure,” he said. “Failure teaches you lessons that success never can. Embrace it, learn from it, and move forward.” Birla highlighted the rising wave of entrepreneurial ventures in India, pointing out that startups are now solving real-world problems with innovation and creativity. He encouraged young Indians to think globally while staying rooted locally. “There has never been a better time to be an Indian. The world is noticing our talent, our innovation, and our energy,” he added. The Role of Education and Technology A significant part of Birla’s conversation touched upon education and technology. As the world rapidly digitizes, he stressed the importance of skills that combine technical expertise with creativity. “India is producing a workforce that is capable, adaptable, and ready to compete on a global stage,” Birla observed. He cited examples from Aditya Birla Group’s ventures in technology-driven sectors, noting that innovation is the key to sustained growth. The industrialist also discussed corporate social responsibility, emphasizing that businesses should be catalysts for social change. Through various initiatives in healthcare, education, and sustainability, he explained how the corporate sector can contribute meaningfully to national development. “Economic growth is important, but inclusive growth is indispensable,” he noted. KBC: A Platform for Inspiration KBC has always been more than just a game show; it serves as a platform for learning, reflection, and inspiration. By inviting prominent figures like Birla, the show reinforces its commitment to highlighting diverse perspectives. Bachchan and Birla’s conversation resonated with viewers because it combined practical wisdom with hope for India’s future. Fans of the show took to social media to share their reactions. Many praised Birla for his humility, clarity, and optimism. “Hearing Kumar Mangalam Birla speak on KBC was truly motivating,” tweeted one viewer. “He reminds us that with hard work, ethics, and vision, anything is possible.” Looking Ahead As India continues to evolve on economic, social, and technological fronts, insights from leaders like Birla provide a blueprint for success. His message on KBC reinforces a fundamental belief: the potential of a nation is best realized when its citizens are empowered, responsible, and forward-looking. For Birla, the future is bright, and the present is a time of unprecedented opportunity. “This is India’s moment,” he concluded. “Embrace it, contribute to it, and take pride in what we can achieve together.” In a world where cynicism often overshadows optimism, Birla’s words on KBC serve as a reminder that vision, courage, and integrity remain the pillars of progress. And perhaps more than ever, his reflections affirm that indeed, there has never been a better time to be an Indian.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohi2 months ago in Geeks
Creating the next 9 themes for The Challenge
There are a lot of rumors that the 42nd season of The Challenge will be do or die if they want the franchise to continue. The last season, Vets & New Threats, sounded ridiculous but was actually a good season. We've seen some terrible themes like Spies, Lies, & Allies. This article will be a list of what themes The Challenge should do from season 42 to 50 to make it as iconic as possible.
By Dylan Deckard2 months ago in Geeks
Amid Tu Meri Main Tera Box Office Dip, Karan Johar Urges People to Stop Celebrating “Failures”. AI-Generated.
Bollywood filmmaker and producer Karan Johar has once again found himself at the center of an industry-wide conversation—this time not for a glamorous launch or a blockbuster announcement, but for a strong emotional appeal following the box office underperformance of Tu Meri Main Tera. As social media buzzed with memes, sarcastic posts, and celebratory takes on the film’s dip, Johar urged audiences and commentators to rethink the culture of celebrating cinematic failures. His statement has reignited an important debate: When did film criticism turn into public gloating? The Film and the Fallout Tu Meri Main Tera arrived in theaters with reasonable expectations. Backed by a prominent banner and marketed as a modern romantic entertainer, the film carried the usual hopes attached to a Karan Johar–associated project. However, despite initial curiosity, its box office numbers failed to match projections. In today’s digital age, such dips rarely stay confined to trade columns. Almost instantly, social media platforms were flooded with reactions—many of them less analytical and more celebratory in tone. Instead of discussing storytelling flaws or audience disconnect, a section of users focused on mocking the film’s failure, often framing it as a “lesson” for big producers. Karan Johar’s Appeal: Criticism vs Cruelty Breaking his silence, Johar addressed the discourse by drawing a clear line between constructive criticism and what he described as “joy in someone else’s failure.” He emphasized that films are not just products but the result of years of creative labor, involving hundreds of technicians, artists, and crew members whose livelihoods are affected by box office outcomes. His appeal wasn’t defensive—it was reflective. Johar acknowledged that not every film succeeds and that criticism is essential for growth. What concerned him was the lack of empathy and the eagerness to turn commercial setbacks into viral celebrations. Why Do Audiences Celebrate Failure? The phenomenon isn’t limited to Bollywood. Globally, entertainment culture has shifted toward instant reactions, where numbers—opening weekend collections, first-day footfalls, social media trends—often overshadow artistic discussion. In India, this tendency is amplified by: Industry fatigue, where audiences feel overwhelmed by star-driven films Anti-nepotism sentiments, which resurface whenever a big-banner film underperforms Social media virality, where negativity spreads faster than nuance For many, celebrating failure becomes a form of perceived accountability. But critics argue that this approach oversimplifies a complex ecosystem and reduces cinema to a scoreboard. The Human Cost of a “Flop” Johar’s statement highlighted an often-ignored reality: when a film fails, the impact extends far beyond producers and stars. Background dancers, spot boys, assistant directors, junior artists, and post-production teams all depend on a film’s success to sustain future work. Unlike social media narratives that frame losses as moral victories, the reality is deeply human. A box office dip can stall careers, shrink opportunities, and create long-term financial stress for people who rarely appear in headlines. A Call for Mature Film Culture Johar’s appeal is part of a broader call for a more mature viewing culture—one that critiques content without dehumanizing creators. Cinema thrives on risk. If every failure becomes a public spectacle, creators may retreat into safer, formulaic projects, ultimately hurting innovation. True film literacy lies in asking: Why didn’t the film connect? What worked despite the failure? How can storytelling evolve? Celebrating failure answers none of these questions. Industry Reactions and Divided Opinions Reactions to Johar’s comments have been mixed. Some filmmakers and actors echoed his sentiment, calling for empathy and responsible criticism. Others argued that public figures must accept scrutiny as part of commercial cinema. Yet even among dissenting voices, there is agreement on one point: mockery is not critique. Laughing at losses does little to improve the quality of films or audience engagement. Looking Ahead Tu Meri Main Tera may not have delivered at the box office, but the conversation it sparked could be more impactful than its numbers. Karan Johar’s message serves as a reminder that cinema is both art and industry—and that empathy should not disappear when tickets don’t sell. In an era where success and failure are measured in real time, perhaps the real challenge is learning how to respond to disappointment with thoughtfulness instead of triumph.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohi2 months ago in Geeks
