As Comic Book Movies Scale Back Releases, Marvel and DC Look to This Summer to Decide the Future of Superhero Cinema
To be sure, a quick scan of box office charts makes plain that audiences' appetites have shifted to movies like 'Sinners,' 'Lilo & Stitch,' and 'A Minecraft Movie' that aren't just about costumed extraordinary beings swooping in to defeat an overwhelming threat. But while superheroes may no longer be an invincible box office force, their obsolescence has also been wildly overstated. For one, some of these movies are still global sensations, like 2024's 'Deadpool & Wolverine' and 2023's 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' and 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.' For another, Disney and Warner Bros. remain deeply invested in moviegoers turning out for comic book adaptations worldwide at a billion dollar scale.
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In July, DC Studios and Marvel Studios are each taking striking creative risks in the hopes of reintroducing — and revitalizing — their respective cinematic universes. 'Superman,' written and directed by co-DC Studios chief James Gunn, will be the first time the Man of Steel headlines a movie in which he is but one of dozens of other superhero characters — a decades-long comic book conceit that hasn't ever really been tested with audiences that don't know their Metamorpho from their Mister Terrific.
For 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps,' the second feature film from 'WandaVision' director Matt Shakman, Marvel is taking the opposite approach, reintroducing the company's First Family in a retro-futuristic 1960s New York City that exists in separate reality from the MCU, no prior knowledge required.
Both of these movies shoulder a burden beyond their own commercial prospects. David Corenswet's Superman failing to soar would be kryptonite for Warner Bros.' longterm plans for its wider DC Universe. And Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn and Ebon Moss-Bachrach stumbling while taking their titular first steps would seriously weaken the storytelling foundations for 'Doomsday' and 'Secret Wars.'
So it's fair to say the stakes are quite high; if these movies don't work, or if audiences actually have just had their fill of this genre, then superheroes really could wind up fading into the pop-culture periphery like rom-coms and Westerns. No genre totally disappears in Hollywood, of course — Kevin Costner's 'Dances With Wolves' and Clint Eastwood's 'Unforgiven' revived the Western in the early 1990s and won the Oscar for best picture. But superhero movies stand apart because the extravagant costs to make and market them demand an audience of commensurate size will show up to see them.
By cutting Marvel's output over the next two years almost in half, however, Disney has mitigated its exposure and given its highest grossing division necessary creative breathing room. Gunn and his DC co-chief Peter Safran, meanwhile, have made a point of not flooding the marketplace with multiple projects, nor greenlighting anything until the screenplay is totally ready. Given the pedigree of the creative forces behind these movies and the cultural currency of the marquee characters at their center (like Batman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman and Black Panther), the odds are strong that moviegoers will continue to turn out for the kind of popcorn thrills that have made superhero films such a reliable blockbuster engine for the last 25 years. There just won't be nearly as many of them as there used to be.
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37 Fashion Pieces That'll Have You Feeling Fierce
A floral denim corset that'll pair perfectly with a cowboy hat. If you already saw Cowboy Carter and are missing the vibes, grab this and your boots and sing your heart out to "ll Hands ll Heaven." *Sobs*, Beyoncé, come back. 😭 Promising review: "I love this corset top! It provides excellent support and fits snugly without feeling restrictive. The craftsmanship is impressive, and the fabric is durable. Perfect for nights out or layered with casual looks. Definitely a fun, fashionable addition to my wardrobe!" —Good and badGet it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in sizes XS–6XL and 26 colors). A *to die for* three-piece set including a bikini top, bottoms, and a mesh maxi coverup skirt for a full beach fit that'll absolutely eeeeatt. Go ahead and book that flight immediately. Get them from White Fox: the bikini top for $39.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 49 colors/patterns), the bottoms for $34.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 37 colors/patterns), and the mesh maxi coverup skirt for $54.99 (available in sizes XXS–XL and 13 colors/patterns). A spandex-blend slip maxi dress that could be the Skims version's distant, cheaper cousin. $20 > $80. Plus, no one will be able to tell the difference. A knotted skirt wrap with a tiger print that'll have you searching for any and every opportunity to wear it. I mean, it does deserve to be seen as much as possible. Get it from Micas for $32 (originally $40; available in one size fits most for plus sizes 0XL–4XL). An absolutely darling ruffled romper so adorable, if there were a fashion dictionary, they'd have a picture of this under "cutest romper ever." Promising review: "This romper is ideal for any occasion! Best part is that it does great in hot weather, and it can be dressed up or down. I was a little skeptical because I'm 5'0 tall and thought it wouldn't fit correctly. However, I was wrong and I'm ordering another color!*Update: I've ordered it again in a different color and I still absolutely love it!" —Jess and EvGet it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 15 colors/patterns). A spaghetti strap top with a built-in bra that reviewers are comparing to its long-lost twin over at Alo Yoga. Long story short — messy divorce, Amazon, and Alo Yoga decided they'd each take one kid and never speak of the other. Kinda like that one Disney movie. Promising reviews: "I have had my eye on the Alo Yoga top for $51 and found this one on Amazon for a fraction of that!! Fits me perfectly. There are no pads, but I prefer that. It does come with cup inserts, but the material is thick enough that nothing shows. #founditonamazon." —Jessica"This top is a swap for the Alo Yoga top. They look exactly alike! The fabric is very soft and stretchy. These padding inserts are seamless and comfortable." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 12 colors). A knit halter dress that'll have everyone kinda nervous when you enter a room because you'll look like a bombshell entering the villa, coming to steal everybody's partner. Actually, I'm pretty sure I saw Clarke wear it in red in the episode where America ranked the islanders (and got it ALL WRONG, might I add, Clarked it 🤏🤏🤏). Promising review: "I purchased this dress for my vacation to Aruba. I absolutely love it. It's so soft and adjustable that it fits me perfectly. Say yes to this dress. I feel stunning in it." —Tammy vigilGet it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors). A backless bodysuit with the ever-so-popular scrunch butt look that'll have you staring at yourself in the mirror, trying not to drool at how dang good you look. You and everyone who sees you will be completely gagged. I have this and wear it everywhere — dance rehearsals, the gym, to run errands, literally any chance I get. It's so cute and v comfy and surprisingly, I mean, I have smaller boobs *but*, they don't pop out at dance classes or the gym, even with all the moving. It has removable pads so my boobies are supported and I can go braless no problem. It's squat-proof and *honorable mention* dance-proof. I did a four-hour rehearsal, and it didn't rip! Everyone wanted to know where I got it from. I need one in every review: "This bodysuit is absolutely the best, the material is strong and stretchy. It feels amazing and makes me look amazing. Definitely recommend getting several of these, I've bought two already." —Terri LewisGet it from Amazon for $12.34+ (available in sizes XS–XL and eight colors). An infinity cropped halter from Telfar because how can you not look at this and think of a billion outfit combos? 😍 Literally crafting mood boards in my head. Telfar is a Black-owned NYC-based unisex line founded in 2005 by Telfar Clemens with the tagline "Not for you, for everyone."*Be sure to check out the size chart to figure out your size! It's unisex sizes, so where I'd normally wear a large in bottoms and a medium in tops, I wear a small in bottoms and an extra small or small top with Telfar, depending on if I want it oversized or it from Telfar for $85 (available in unisex sizes S–XXL and three colors). A midi dress and cardigan set so stunning, you'll be stopped every five minutes with questions about where you got it. Rebdolls is a Latine- and woman-owned small biz that makes clothes with plenty of bold colors and fun it from Rebdolls for $79.90 (available in sizes S–5X and four colors). A waist chain, since you're all about the details. This is gonna look soooo hot all summer long, omg, send me the pics, bestie. Promising review: "I wanted to try out waist chains as they're so freaking cute. This exceeded my expectations. It's so cute, and such a pretty color. I picked silver cause I feel like it looks better on my skin tone. Product honestly looks just like the picture. I love how it fits so perfectly and how you can adjust the size accordingly. It's honestly way cuter than I expected. —Julianna it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three sizes and 12 styles). A darling halter maxi dress you'll wanna twirl around in all day. Twirl, honey, twirl, *Nene Leakes voice*. Promising review: "Went to a wedding and the dress fit perfectly. A lot of compliments." —Rolanda CharlesGet it from Amazon for $46.99 (available in sizes S–XL and four colors). A pair of high-waisted bell-bottoms with butterflies on 'em that def give Y2K vibes. Like, Raven Baxter probably had these in her closet. Promising review: "My new favorite pair of pants. I love love love these jeans. I have already received several compliments when wearing them. They are super cute and make me feel great! I love them so much that I bought the lighter pair, as well, even though I usually only wear dark colored jeans. So happy with this purchase!" —Breanna K LarsenGet them from Amazon for $28.79 (available in sizes S–3XL and 14 colors). A maxi dress that'll make you realize that your soulmate is actually a super hot, jaw-dropping maxi dress with a mesh bodice. Get it from White Fox for $84.99 (available in sizes XXS–XL and four colors). A halter bodysuit with a layered ruffle trim and an open back that'll have everyone ready to pull you for a chat. Oh, and peep Love Island UK's *iconic* bombshell Maura Higgins (season five) modeling. Promising review: "Show stopper! I felt so comfortable and confident. Fits like a dream. Buy it!" —Chloe it from Oh Polly for $120 (available in sizes XXS–XL and two colors). A backless butterfly maxi dress that'll for sure command the attention of the ENTIRE room. Kinda like when Cinderella (Brandy version) walked into the ball and the entire room stopped dancing to stare. Promising review: "This dress made me feel so sexyyyy! I love it, the material was A1 quality. I only wish it had tighter shoulder straps or a seamless adjustable strap, being that a bra can't be worn with this dress." —Styles By Proof_Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes XS–L and three colors). A colorful knit bucket hat to spice up any boring 'fit. 'Nuff said. Promising review: "This hat is so freaking cute! I get so many compliments every time I wear it. It's big head-friendly, I've worn it over a wig and braids, and it was comfortable each time." —Trebion BembryGet it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two colors). A simple halter top and ruched skirt because just when you thought you'd never fall in love again, this baddie walks into your life. Get them from Rebdolls: the top for $27.90 (available in sizes S–5X) and the skirt for $29.90 (available in sizes S–5X). A cutie halter top + matching pants that'll have you walking around with so much confidence, cuz as soon as you put this on, you'll be reminded that you're a total baddie. Get them from White Fox: the halter top for $59.99 (available in sizes XXS–L and three colors) and the matching pants for $69.99 (available in sizes XXS–XL and three colors). A strapless maxi dress with a stunning floral print that'll for sure turn heads. The devil on your shoulder won't need to do much convincing to get you to put this in your cart. Promising review: "This fitted maxi dress is a game changer! The high stretch material hugs my curves perfectly without being sheer, making me feel like an elegant goddess at every event." —B***oGet it from Micas for $48 (available in sizes XS–XL). A bodycon maxi dress you'll wanna wear on every summer vacay. It's perfect for an outdoor lunch or even to impersonate a famous pop star on a trip to Italy while Paolo tells you that "you shine with the light from the sun." Promising review: "It's stunning, breathtaking, and beautiful. It was love at first sight when I saw it. It's worth every penny! It makes you feel like a goddess! I got all the compliments! I'm definitely buying this dress in different prints. 🥰" —Kia HowardGet it from Amazon for $49.98+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 12 colors). A Telfar logo hoodie with a cutout keyhole infinity loop that I swear is whispering in my ear *let me come home with you*, like, are you hearing it too? I mean, I'm trying to resist this, but it's low-key in my cart *bites finger*. It's seducing me. Get it from Telfar for $325 (available in unisex sizes S–XXL). A denim mini skirt that will definitely be so much cooler than the other jean skirts in your closet. The others you own will be *so* irritated by the clear favoritism. Promising review: "This fitted denim skirt is perfect! The quality is impressive, and it fits my figure beautifully." —M***sGet it from Micas for $60 (available in sizes XS–XL). A ruffled mini dress with ruching and a 3D floral appliqué that'll have you searching for mirrors everywhere you go to walk by and check yourself out in. Promising review: "I absolutely adore this summer mini dress! The slim fit hugs my curves perfectly while the high-stretch fabric feels so comfortable. My friends keep asking where I got it!" —A***rGet it from Micas for $52 (originally $55; available in sizes 0XL–3XL and two colors). A lacey corset top that'll quickly become the ✨star✨ of the show. The Beyoncé of your closet for sure. Promising review: "I honestly was skeptical about all the hype (I was obviously super intrigued, still) ,but this is easily one of my favorite finds on Amazon. The quality is better than expected, the lace is gorgeous in person, and the details are lovely all around. The lace is soft and not itchy, and the corset itself isn't terribly restrictive, but still offers support in the right places. I would say if you are in between sizes or have a bigger bust, go up one size to be safe. I am so tempted to buy more colors." —Jessica | Booked JGet it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 14 colors). A tiered high-waisted maxi skirt with pockets (!!!) and a beaded drawstring for an effortlessly stylish look. Every one of your summer tops will want a turn to be paired with this. Promising review: "One of my favorite skirts I own, it's light enough but still doesn't show under the skirt. It also has pockets, which is very important to have when you have a lot to hold! Overall, well-made and would buy again!" —Jacquelyn WantlinGet it from Amazon for $30.39+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 16 colors). A boho jumpsuit you'll love so much it'll begin to invade your dreams like ~wear meeee, you know you want to~. Promising review: "LOVE THIS! The material feels good on your skin. It feels light and airy. Even though it's pants, they're light enough to wear during the summer without feeling hot. The fit is perfect. I wouldn't mind having this in other colors. I'm so happy with this purchase." —Nanette N BakerGet it from Amazon for $43.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 13 colors). A plunging V-neck mini dress with an open back that'll be the first thing you pack every vacation, cuz you'll never wanna be on a trip without this cutie. Promising review: "This dress is exactly what I was looking for! We went to Florida for my 30th birthday, and I wanted something fun and beachy, but also something that I could wear again, and this dress hit the mark for sure! Super comfy, not too hot, and the perfect party dress!" —Heather HGet it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 18 patterns). A fabulous maxi dress because it literally looks like it'd be worn by Ariana Madix to the villa firepit to deliver the most chaotic news ever to the islanders. Cue the crash outs. Promising review: "My favorite clothing item. It's seriously perfect. I sized down and it was the right decision. Buy it if you're thinking about it!" —Lea it from Outcast for $84 (available in sizes XXS–XL). An adorable off-shoulder jumper with pockets that'll become your summer fave without even trying. Promising review: "This outfit was very comfortable and I loved how it fit me. Loved the material." —Mechellelee it from Rebdolls for $59.90 (available in sizes S–5X). A ruffled hem maxi dress that'll be your favorite 'fit to pack for vacation. Cute + pockets = a must-have. Promising review: "FINALLY! Long enough! I'm 5'7 and most 'maxi' dresses barely graze my ankles. This dress actually reaches the ground. Fabric is 100% poly and did not shrink with washing." —Susan BarnesGet it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes S–5XL and 25 colors). A ribbed bodycon midi dress because a little black dress always screams fierce. The adjustable ruching, the side slit, it's everything. 😍 Get it from Rebdolls for $49.90 (available in sizes S–5X). A chic two-piece set with a maxi skirt and cropped top that'll have you booking a flight to Greece immediately. This baby deserves to be seen around the world for sure. Promising review: "Just buy it, you'll see, this looks and feels very expensive like it's from a fancy boutique!! Fits perfectly, and don't let the 'cropped top' scare you, my tummy doesn't show one bit!! You can adjust the skirt to be a touch higher, like a high-waisted skirt, without compromising the look!! If you wanted your tummy to show, also an easy adjustment with the skirt waist height. A+." —EMMGet it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 11 colors). A super cute cowboy hat you'll wear just so you can do-si-do on down to brunch in style. Get it from Princess Polly for $28. A denim corset maxi dress with a halter neck, frontline zipper, adjustable straps, ANNNND pockets! I'm sure this beauty will meet your cart very soon. Get it from Eloquii for $159.95 (available in sizes 14–28). A pair of rimless sunglasses because it's scientifically proven that you can't *not* feel fierce while wearing sunnies... Okay, I totally made that up, but throw on a pair of sunglasses and tell me you don't feel totally fabulous. Promising review: "Stylish must-have! I recently snagged a pair of Y2K Sunglasses, and they're my new obsession! These shades boast a chic Y2K-inspired design that's both trendy and comfortable. With lightweight frames and adjustable nose pads, they're perfect for all-day wear. Plus, they're incredibly versatile, complementing any outfit effortlessly. Made with quality materials, these sunglasses are durable and offer excellent UV protection. In summary, the Y2K Sunglasses are a stylish must-have accessory that adds flair to any look. Trust me, you won't regret adding them to your collection —PavlovGet it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five colors). A crossover crop top with keyhole cutouts that you'll surely get your money's worth out of, cuz once you put it on, you'll wanna wear it nonstop. Get it from Rebdolls for $34.90 (available in sizes S–5X). You at the pool in your Roberto Cavalli x Skims bikini and waist chains: Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
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Shannon Sharpe Out at ESPN
NFL hall-of-famer and podcaster Shannon Sharpe is out at ESPN, just a few weeks after settling a $50 million lawsuit brought by a woman who had accused him of rape. Sharpe, who had been a regular contributor to the popular First Take morning show, had temporarily stepped aside from his duties at ESPN earlier this year after the suit was first filed, with plans to return in time for the NFL season. More from The Hollywood Reporter Niche Sports Aren't So Niche Anymore As Networks Place More Bets Shannon Sharpe Settles $50 Million Rape Lawsuit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Simone Biles Among Top Winners at 2025 ESPY Awards A source familiar with the matter confirms to The Hollywood Reporter that Sharpe will not return to ESPN. The Athletic first reported the news. The former tight end had emerged as a media powerhouse in his retirement, first at Fox Sports, and later at ESPN. Sharpe had inked a new deal with ESPN just over a year ago, with Disney CEO Bob Iger personally getting involved in the discussions. But he also built a large podcast following with Club Shay Shay, which gave him a platform on a scale unlike anything he had seen before. 'I'm bigger now than at any point in my career. I'm 10 times what I was,' Sharpe told THR last year. 'I won Super Bowls. I'm in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But I've never been as big as I am right now.' While Sharpe has been absent on ESPN, he has continued to release new episodes of the podcast. Best of The Hollywood Reporter How the Warner Brothers Got Their Film Business Started Meet the World Builders: Hollywood's Top Physical Production Executives of 2023 Men in Blazers, Hollywood's Favorite Soccer Podcast, Aims for a Global Empire
3 hours ago
'Project Runway' season 21 premieres Thursday: Everything you need to know
"Project Runway" is back, bringing more fashion and excitement to the runway! Season 21 sees the return of original host Heidi Klum, joined by a dynamic group of new designers, including returning alums, a drag superstar, twin brothers and more. "It's just tough love," teased Law Roach, a new judge on the season, during his interview with " Good Morning America." "Because cultivating the next generation of talent is really important to me, and it always has been. I would be doing them a disservice if I was sugar coating things. So, you know, I give it to them the way the real world gives it to you, there's no, you, know, soft parenting." Christian Siriano, season 4 winner and mentor on the show, added, "I mean this season it's really, I think they're really talented designers that I've, I mean they're making incredible things and I think what people forget is it, it really is 15 hours, sometimes 10 hours, they get no time, they create incredible things, and then we have to judge them, you know, it's a hard show." "I know what it is like and I know what it's like to be in the real world in fashion too. So you do get judged pretty harshly. I mean, there's gonna be an actress that is like, 'I hate that dress, I'm never wearing it.' So they have to hear that," Siriano said. "But it's so fun. We have the best time. I'm in the work room, it's the best." From premiere details to how to watch, keep reading for everything you need to know about this iconic fashion competition. When and how to watch 'Project Runway' season 21 Fans can catch "Project Runway" on Freeform starting Thursday, July 31, at 10 p.m. ET. Episodes will also be available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+ after they air on Freeform. Who is the host for 'Project Runway' season 21? Heidi Klum is back as host with beloved winner and mentor Christian Siriano guiding the designers throughout the competition. Who are the judges for 'Project Runway' season 21? This season features two influential voices in fashion: celebrity stylist Law Roach and Elle magazine's editor-in-chief Nina García. Who is in the cast of 'Project Runway' season 21? Antonio Estrada Jesus Estrada Yuchen Han Belania Daley Caycee Black Angelo Rosa Joan Madison Alex Foxworth Madeline Malenfant Ethan Mundt aka 'Utica Queen' Veejay Floresca Joseph McRae When is the finale of 'Project Runway' season 21? If the eight remaining episodes air as scheduled, the season finale is set for Thursday, Oct. 2. However, a potential one-week hiatus for hometown visits could push the finale back by a week. "Project Runway" season 21 premieres on Freeform July 31 and will be available to stream on Hulu and Disney+ afterward.
