Latest news with #Mat
Forbes
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
‘The Wheel Of Time' Deserves Another Season, Warts And All
The Wheel Of Time I understand why detractors of Amazon's Wheel Of Time series dislike the show so immensely. It runs roughshod over the source material, making too many changes to count. But it's also done something that I think is worth mentioning: The third season, which I liked a great deal, made me decide to get back into the books by Robert Jordan. Prior to Season 3, I had only read the first two novels. It took my half a dozen tries to get through the first one, The Eye Of The World, in part because I found it so derivative of Lord Of The Rings. The second book, The Great Hunt, was better but I still wasn't sure if I wanted to invest so much time into a new fantasy series, especially since I've heard from a lot of people that it drags to a slog somewhere in the middle. But Season 3, which had now moved past where I was in the books, rekindled my interest in the series. I burned through The Dragon Reborn (though I still think perhaps it should have been called The Stone Of Tear) and have been doing the same with The Shadow Rising. And I can finally say that the series has 'clicked' for me at long last. It has carved out its own space in the epic fantasy genre. Braid-tugging aside, Jordan's writing is engaging and his characters – especially Mat and Perrin – are compelling. The lore and magic and politics of the world grow more fascinating by the page. And I may not have picked these back up at all if Season 3 hadn't convinced me that this was, in fact, something special. Of course, now that I've read as far as I have, I see all the ways the show up to this point has mangled the story. Not because it's 'woke' (aside from a few casting choices, I think they've done a great job adapting a book series that was already very diverse with lots of strong female characters) but because they've taken out huge chunks of what actually happens, fast-forwarded a ton, and placed certain scenes down in completely different spots. Some characters are wildly different in the show and others get a lot of screentime that they probably don't need yet. Some choices, like making Moiraine and the Amyrlin Seat a romantic couple, feel out of place but not a huge deal in the big scheme of things. Others, like essentially taking away Mat's gambling and resistance to being part of the 'team', or effectively cutting the Stone of Tear and the sword Callandor, are frankly bizarre. Maybe it's because I don't have a lifelong love of these books that I can accept these changes. I don't like many of them, but I can accept them for two reasons: First, the show has gotten so much better since Season 1. Strip away the source material, and you have a really good fantasy show on its own merits – unlike Rings Of Power which is bad regardless of its fidelity to Tolkien. Second, I am able to say to myself 'This is just a different version of the story.' Specifically, this is a different version because it had to be. In a perfect world, Amazon would have greenlit fifteen seasons of this show from the outset with an unlimited budget and all the runtime they needed to cover the story. In the real world, that was never going to happen even if this was a hit. Live-action fantasy is too expensive. Even the most popular and successful fantasy show of all time, Game Of Thrones, was cut short. Even if they'd been given fifteen seasons, getting the cast to stick around that long would have been a miracle. They had to truncate and condense and make changes. Yes, we can question those changes, but the reality is even in the perfect scenario, what works on the page doesn't always work onscreen. This was far from the best we could have hoped for, but by Season 3 I think it was a lot closer. The cast was warming up to their characters. The writing was more confident. The special effects and costumes had improved. All across the board, The Wheel Of Time was headed in the right direction. And so of course Amazon canceled it, just when things were getting good. Fans have started a petition to save the series. It's a nice thought, though I've seen so many of these over the years and they almost never work. Occasionally another streamer will swoop in and save a show from certain death, but saving one that costs this much seems incredibly unlikely. The Legend Of Vox Machina I'll reiterate my own hopes, which are perhaps only a little less pie-in-the-sky: Let's start making animated versions of epic fantasy series instead of focusing so much on live-action. Live-action is expensive. Casting is hard and rarely not controversial (Game Of Thrones notwithstanding). Even strong series face all sorts of obstacles with budgets and cast down the road. Animated series can avoid so many of these pitfalls. They're cheaper, you can more easily replace a voice actor, children don't age out of their roles (looking at you, Bran Stark) and you can achieve the fantasy elements much easier and more effectively. A show like The Legend Of Vox Machina handles combat, dragons, magic and other fantastical effects so much better than Wheel Of Time or any other live-action fantasy. It just works better when everything is animated. CGI doesn't eat the whole budget up. Scale is less problematic. (Obviously this is not always true, as Netflix's Arcane was a wildly expensive show that went so far overbudget it was tragically condensed into two seasons, rushed awkwardly to an unsatisfying conclusion). I wish Amazon would reconsider at the 11th hour and decide to give The Wheel of Time another lease on life. I don't think they will, but the people behind the show and in front of the camera deserve another crack at it, and so do fans. In the meantime, I have a bunch more of these books to read and that makes me happy. Read my review of Joe Abercrombie's latest fantasy novel, The Devils, right here. And let me know what you think about all of this on Twitter, Instagram, Bluesky or Facebook. Also be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me here on this blog. Sign up for my newsletter for more reviews and commentary on entertainment and culture.
Daily Mirror
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Home Bargains shoppers 'run' for £3 item they 'need immediately'
A fan urged shoppers to 'run' to Home Bargains for the 'cutest' £2.99 item that looks adorable in your home It's clear bows are one of the biggest trends of 2025, and it looks like it isn't going anywhere anytime soon. From bow pyjamas to bow mirrors, there's no shortage of themed items for shoppers. Now, Home Bargains has introduced a new range, and, once more, everything is covered in bows. Shoppers love the look of a £2.99 trinket dish, ideal for fans looking for subtle bow decor. The white tray, which could hold keys, jewellery or similar items, features a pink bow design. Showcasing the popular tray on TikTok, shopper @ellieefrostt told followers: "Run to Home Bargains for the cutest bow tray girlies." In her caption, she added: "£2.99 too what a bargain." Impressed, a commenter replied: "NEEDDD IMMEDIATELY." Someone else wrote: "Love." Another declared: "Omg I need." A similar response read: "Omg I love it!!" Someone else said: "Omg how cute," and a shopper added: "I'm hoping they are still there when I get back from holiday." Fans of the style might also like items from the rest of the collection. As seen in a recent video shared by @xxsophia.16, the tray isn't the only item available. Other themed products include cushions, mugs, pyjamas, and bath mats. While some items aren't available on Home Bargains' website, online shoppers can get the bow cushion and the bath mat. The Lifestyle Edit Bow Cushion costs £5.99. The product description says: "Add a dash of charm to your space with The Lifestyle Edit Bow Cushion! This adorable cushion, featuring cute bow details, is perfect for bringing a sweet touch to any room." Meanwhile, the Lifestyle Edit Non Slip Pink Bow Bath Mat costs £4.99. The product description reads: "Add a pop of cuteness to your bathroom with The Lifestyle Edit Pink Bow Bath Mat! This super soft, 100% cotton mat is made for cozy, happy feet. "The adorable bow and ribbon design in a deep pink shade gives off major princess vibes, while the wavy scalloped edges make it extra dreamy. Not only is it super stylish, but it's also practical with a non-slip backing, so you won't have to worry about any slips or slides." Both products are available for Home Bargains' free saver delivery, available to customers who spend £100 on eligible items. Alternatively, shoppers can locate their nearest store here. Shoppers might also prefer to search for similar items from different retailers. For instance, Next offers a Pink Velvet Embellished Bow Cushion for £18 and Urban Outfitters offers a Blue Bow Tufted Cushion for £19. Next also offers a Pink Heart and Bow Print Mug for £7, while Urban Outfitters offers a Pearl Bow Mug for £15, and Argos offers a Home Bow Mini Mug for £4.
Scottish Sun
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Home Bargains reveals cheap £2.49 items to keep your pets cool in summer as temperatures soar to 25C
Scroll down for the full range CHILL OUT Home Bargains reveals cheap £2.49 items to keep your pets cool in summer as temperatures soar to 25C Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SUMMER is approaching and Home Bargains is providing affordable ways to keep you pets cool for the hot days. The discount variety store has a range of items as low as £2 on sale from their pets section. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 A Dog Cooling Vest from Home Bargains costs just £2.49 Credit: Home Bargains 6 Home Bargains has a range of cooling toys safe for pets to use Credit: Home Bargains 6 Cooling mats come in a simple rectangle shape, a round watermelon or orange. Credit: Home Bargains These buys help remove having to rely on keeping the fan running or constantly using water to keep animals cool. As Home Bargains suggest, it is crucial to ensure pets do not overheat because "If you're hot, your pets are no, panting isn't a vibe." Their products can therefore be useful in summer days, even whilst not at home. One item you may not think about for buying for your fury friends is a Summer Cooling Toy, being sold at Home Bargains from MyPets. The discount retailer is selling their cooling toys for just £1.49, and they come in a variety of fruits. You can choose from a grape, strawberry or pineapple toy, that is designed with durable, pet-safe materials that can help regulate your pet's body. It can be used by placing the toy in the freezer for a few hours before use, and will provide hours of entertaining play for animals on hot days. Another useful summer addition to the pet collection could be a Pet Cooling Vest or Bandana. The Pets Cooling Bandana costs just 79p, and can just be wrapped around cat or dogs neck, providing both cooling and style. It is made from cool touch 100% polyester, so is still comfortable for animals to wear on scorching days. Best and Worst Dogs for Apartment Living: Expert Insights The Pet Cooling Vest is being sold for £2.49, made from the same material but can be word around their body. A final cheap item for your animals over the summer could be a Pet Cooling Mat which can be bought for £3.99 from Home Bargains. Pets can lie on the mats to provide relief from heat and prevent overheating or discomfort. And for a slightly higher price of £10, you can purchase a Pet Cooling Sprinkler Mat that can be attached hose for water to spray out. 7 best dog cooling mats UK 2025, tried and tested by two hot dogs Scruffs Pet Cool Bed, £49.99 from Scruffs - bed with padded sides for head resting with removable and washable cover (Rated: 4.5/5) - bed with padded sides for head resting with removable and washable cover (Rated: 4.5/5) PawHut Elevated Pet Bed with Sloped Head Rest, £23.99 from Aosom - strong mesh covered bed which helps air circulate freely under, around and through the bed which can be used indoors and outdoors (Rated: 4.5/5) - strong mesh covered bed which helps air circulate freely under, around and through the bed which can be used indoors and outdoors (Rated: 4.5/5) Rosewood Water Resistant & Cooling Travel Mattress , £16.04 from Amazon - light and easy to carry around mat that is water-resistant (Rated: 4/5) , - light and easy to carry around mat that is water-resistant (Rated: 4/5) Rosewood Chillax Cool Pad, £20 from Argos - Foldable mad that can cool for up to four hours (Rated: 4/5) - Foldable mad that can cool for up to four hours (Rated: 4/5) Sunny Daze Pop-Up Dog Shelter , £15 from Pets at Home - Tent-like shelter that provides UV protection, with pegs to secure shelter to ground and can be folded for storage (Rated: 5/5) , - Tent-like shelter that provides UV protection, with pegs to secure shelter to ground and can be folded for storage (Rated: 5/5) 3 Peaks Breathable Raised Dog Bed, £30 from Pets at Home - Pets at Home bed allows air to circulate underneath with strong mesh, good for cooling, breathability and easing pressure on joints, that is washable, non-slip (Rated: 4.5/5) - Pets at Home bed allows air to circulate underneath with strong mesh, good for cooling, breathability and easing pressure on joints, that is washable, non-slip (Rated: 4.5/5) Wilko Clever Paws Watermelon Fruit Pet Cooling Mat, £3.99 from Wilko - Cooling mat with watermelon design and gel liquid within bed which can pool at edges (Rated: 3.5/5) 6 A Pet Water Bottle is a useful addition to the summer pet collection Credit: Home Bargains 6 The Ice Cream Plush Dog Toy can also be a great summer buy Credit: Home Bargains
Daily Mirror
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
The key reason why Taskmaster's Greg Davies should never abdicate his throne
The weather may be hotting up outside, but there's every reason to stay in for a night on the sofa with thrilling new dramas, hard-hitting documentaries and shiny talent shows on our screens. With so much to choose from, I have handpicked the best of the box from big broadcasters like BBC and ITV, as well as streaming services - from Netflix to Prime Video. Tonight, Alex Horne plays the French horn in Taskmaster, the UK performs their Eurovision entry in the semi-finals and there's in-fighting for the Mormon Wives. See below for my top telly picks. The small group of complainers who have called time on this series have clearly never watched it or have no sense of humour - Taskmaster is endlessly, relentlessly funny. It would probably all fall apart without Greg Davies at the helm, effortlessly pulling all the shenanigans together with his next-level sarcasm. May he never abdicate his throne… This series sees Fatiha El-Ghorri, Jason Mantzoukas, Mathew Baynton, Rosie Ramsey and Stevie Martin take on pointless and idiotic tasks, competing for nonsense prizes and random points. This is all in a vain effort to win glory, but mostly to avoid completely losing all dignity (unavoidable). For the prize task, Alex Horne asks them to bring in the best thing for a middle aged man to keep on his bedside table. Rosie finds a way to provide a constant reminder of herself to her two sons, Mat pitches poetry, while Jason (who is worth tuning in for all by himself) connects with Greg over nighttime bathroom habits. The contestants are released from the Taskmaster grounds to explore an old abbey, but Fatiha is concerned about the aggressive waterfowl. Later on, every time someone moves, Alex plays the French horn and there's an ode to cheese. Despite Rosie going flying, Stevie attempting art with a duck and Jason finding a new moustache, it's Mat crawling through a corridor that causes the largest commotion. 'None of this makes sense. It's immediately confusing,' says Mat - summing up the entire tone of the show. Another instalment of pure, blissfully silly joy that shouldn't be missed. There are two groups of people in Britain - those who don't remotely care about Eurovision and those that are obsessive, flag waving, costume wearing, party hosting, point-counting fanatics. Anything in-between isn't acceptable, you're either in or you're out. If you're in, you will already have seen Rylan and Scott Mills host the first live semi-final from Basel, Switzerland, and now this is the second, the big one - when the UK perform. Of course, we are guaranteed a place in Saturday's final (as a member of the Big Five), but this is the first chance to see Remember Monday's highly-anticipated stage show. The country pop girl band trio will perform What The Hell Just Happened? But will they leap into our hall of fame or fall into obscurity like so many others? Other acts competing tonight include brother and sister duo Abor & Tynna for Germany, with electro pop hit Baller, and Louane, representing France, with her power ballad Maman. It all makes for a catchy little appetiser before the big event. 'Heavenly father, we're so grateful and blessed,' quickly turns into heated debate, expletives and chaos as this glossy reality nonsense returns. Love it or loathe the incessant screeching, the first season, following Mormon wives mostly in Utah, America, became the most-watched unscripted season premiere on Disney+. The series is not as pious as you might expect - these are mom influencers running the social media empire #MomTok who last season got caught in a swinging scandal. Fair to say these women - all stunning, all in low-cut tops and bum-skimming skirts, of course - are keen to shock. While it touches on the unique lifestyle of Mormons, mostly it's about sisterhood in-fighting, betrayal and bitching. In this season, #MomTok's world is rocked when Miranda arrives and challenges Taylor's 'truth' about the swinging scandal. Taylor finally meets with Jenna to learn what really happened between her and Dakota, and Jen must make a decision about her future with Zac. As the stags gather outside the Hide with everyone in high-spirits ahead of the paint balling, Mack is left uneasy by a chilling warning from John. As battle commences at the stag do, John is distracted to watch Mack sneaking off. He heads off in pursuit of his prey. Matty's intervention has convinced Ross to contact Lewis and Moira is shocked that he plans on doing it today. Later Ross and Lewis come face to face and struggle to confront the past. In typical EastEnders style, there has been an affair and there is video footage. Cindy has not only gatecrashed a party, but decided to play the video of Kathy and Harvey kissing. Now the residents of Albert Square are left reeling at Cindy's shocking footage as Jean presses Harvey to find out what the contents were. Will Harvey tell her the truth or keep lying to her? Later on, Kathy and Ian head home where she reveals everything about her affair.
Engadget
13-05-2025
- Engadget
How to pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
The super slim Galaxy S25 Edge, which Samsung teased at the tail end of its January Unpacked event, has been officially revealed. During tonight's Unpacked, we got full specs, pricing and shipping dates for Samsung's latest phone, as well as a chance to put our hands on the new handset. Pricing is set at $1,100 for 256GB of storage or $1,220 for the 512GB model and the phones ship May 30. Pre-orders are open at Amazon, Best Buy and directly from Samsung, which is offering a $50 pre-order store credit and a no-charge upgrade to the 512GB model. The Edge's headline features include its thin build and AI-supported photography chops — both of which we'd suspected from various leaks, only to have the rumors confirmed by Samsung's own press release last week. And indeed, when Engadget's Mat Smith got his hands on an Edge, he immediately felt how much lighter the device was — yet, he noted, it still felt premium. We now know for sure that the Galaxy S25 Edge has a 6.7-inch screen but measures just 5.8mm (0.22 inches) thick. That's slightly less surface area than the 6.9-inch Ultra, but a full 2.4mm thinner. It weighs 163 grams, nearly the same as the standard Galaxy S25, but the Edge measures more than 10mm taller and 5mm wider than its base-model sibling. To shave off the grams and trim the width, Samsung developed a broader yet slimmer vapor chamber and a new Thermal Interface Material (TIM) for better heat dissipation. It uses Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the front display. It's the first phone to use the material, which Corning says offers "enhanced drop performance on rough surfaces," allowing for a thinner glass layer. The frame is made from titanium, like the Ultra model, a material many phone manufactures have put in higher-end models for its lightweight strength. As for camera power, the Edge has the same 200MP sensor as the S25 Ultra, which Samsung claims captures 40 percent brighter images in low light situations compared with the standard S25. There's also a 12MP ultra-wide lens and a 12MP selfie cam up front. Those two rear cameras do protrude noticeably from the thin frame of the phone, but Mat was impressed how well-balanced the phone felt — it's not lopsided at all. Of course, the phone also packs plenty of AI-powered tricks, including Pro Scaler, Audio Eraser and Drawing Assist. To support all the AI, Samsung is using the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip as the other S25 phones and comes with 12GB of memory and either 256 or 512GB of storage. It packs a 3,900mAh battery, which is smaller than both the 4,000mAh one found in the standard S25 and the 5,000mAH power supply in the Ultra. Though Samsung claims the Edge can run for 24 hours on a charge. You can get the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge in three color options: Titanium Silver, Titanium Jet Black, and Titanium Icy Blue. Samsung is promising seven years of security and software updates. We only spent a short time with the phone so far, but our full review will be out shortly.
