Latest news with #TheChroniclesofNarnia
Daily Mirror
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Will Poulter's model ex claims he dumped her over WhatsApp 'without warning'
Hollywood actor Will Poulter was in a relationship with model Bobby T for three years, but she claims he 'ghosted' her and her son over WhatsApp and left without warning Will Poulter's ex-girlfriend has accused him of 'ghosting' her and her son after she claims he dumped her 'without warning' over WhatsApp. The 32-year-old was in a three-year relationship with model Bobby T, who at 45 is 13 years older than him. The actor, who shot to fame in E4 sketch show School of Comedy, is thought to have moved on with Top Boy actress Saffron Hocking, 31, after the pair were spotted having lunch and spending time together at Glastonbury Festival and Wimbledon. But his ex - who says the pair were discussing marriage and had built a life together before Will disappeared 'like he never existed' - has taken to social media to publicly blast his actions, especially as he was a stepdad to her young son. Taking to Instagram, Bobby - whose real name is Erin Campaneris - wrote in her stories: "Just so there's no confusion, I was in a real relationship for almost three years. We built a life together. We planned the details of our wedding. He wasn't just in my life. He was in my son's." She continued: "He called him his stepson and they had a real relationship. Because of his age my son only remembers a life when he was there. That was his normal. "He was there for first days of school and volunteered his his classroom. He came to school meetings and showed up in every way. The school knew him as family. "Then one day with no warning and no signs of trouble he just ended it over WhatsApp. That was it. Just gone." Describing how she was 'in love', Bobby said: "We were blindsided. But what hurts most is how easily he disappeared, especially from my son's perspective. Like he never existed. 'I have waited months in hope that I would have more clarity, but I wasn't given that by him or his family, who we considered family too." She went on to say she "didn't even get their belongings back" after the split, believed to have happened earlier this year. Detailing how she had faced cruelty and judgment from other women in the wake of the break up, Bobby said: "I am not scorned. I just want the truth to be known so I can move forward with my life in peace. Please let this be all and I will not be sharing any more." Will and Bobby were first linked in 2022 when they were seen kissing on the streets of West Hollywood. She lives in America with her son, while Will is thought to split his time between America and the UK. Speaking of Will and Bobby's romance, a source said the pair realised their connection "wasn't going to last long term". It's said Bobby's main priority remains her son. Will - who has also starred in Hollywood films The Chronicles of Narnia, We Are The Millers, Maze Runner and The Revenant - is said to have struggled with balancing the distance and work. The source continued to tell The Sun: "He's known Saffron for a while but they have been spending more time together recently. They were both hosted by Barbour at Glasto and got on like a house on fire. It's very early days and while they might be telling people they are just friends, the sparks between them are obvious to everyone." The Mirror has reached out to Will's reps for comment on this story.
Courier-Mail
15-07-2025
- Courier-Mail
10 best things to do in Belfast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. Here are 10 things to add to your Belfast itinerary... 1. Tour Belfast City Hall The city's first civic building opened in 1906 and it's one of Belfast's most opulent buildings. Sign up for a guided tour to marvel at the beautiful stained glass windows (designed to highlight key chapters in the city's history), marble staircases and ornate sculptures. Its grounds include the Titanic Memorial Garden which has a nine-metre plinth bearing the names of those who died when the ship sank. The city's first civic building opened in 1906 2. Board HMS Caroline HMS Caroline is a decommissioned navy ship which set sail in 1914. She was used in combat during WWI and as an administrative base during WWII. She now resides in Alexandra Dock in Belfast's Titanic Quarter, and visitors can check out her engine rooms, drill halls and captain's quarters (which make even the smallest cruise ship 3. Pick up gardening tips Established in 1828, Belfast's Botanic Gardens are stuffed with species from the southern hemisphere. One of the most striking buildings is Charles Lanyon's Palm House, which was built in 1839, while the Tropical Ravine greenhouse's tropical plants include orchids, bananas and lilies. Charles Lanyon's Palm House 4. Celebrate Narnia CS Lewis Square, on Newtownards Road, has seven bronze sculptures depicting characters from The Chronicles of Narnia, and pays tribute to the Belfast-born author. Afterwards, pop into the EastSide Visitor Centre, next to the square, to learn about the history of East Belfast, or to feast on delicious cakes at its JACK Coffee Bar (C.S. Lewis was known as Jack to his close friends). 5. Visit Titanic Belfast 'No trip is complete without a visit to Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum built on the shipyard,' says The museum is one of the city's most popular attractions, and has 10 galleries where visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and smells connected with the ship, learning not only about HMS Titanic but the people who built her. Expect plenty of tech – interactive screens display passenger lists and visitors can board rollercoaster-style cars to travel through a replica of the ship. Sunset over Titanic Belfast 6. Shop at the market The covered St George's Market was built in the late 1800s, and it's a fantastic option for rainy days. There's little you won't find here, whether it's second-hand books or delicious food. Head for the bakery section to admire types of bread you never knew existed (we're particularly keen on fadge, made with potatoes) or to the seafood section to check out stalls piled with still-twitching prawns, crabs and clams. 7. Admire Belfast Castle Belfast Castle isn't actually that old – it was built in the 1860s – but it's still worthy of your radar. Architectural masterpieces include a gorgeous Italianate Renaissance spiral staircase and the grand Jacobean-style portico, although the grounds are just as wonderful, with beautifully manicured gardens incorporating fountains. Belfast Castle was built in the 1860s 8. Hike through Cave Hill Cave Hill Country Park, on the city's outskirts, is a brilliant place to soak up views over Belfast. Its numerous archaeological sites include an ancient ráth (or fort) and there are several picnic spots. It's a nature lover's paradise – don't be surprised to spot peregrines soaring above the park's fragrant wildflower meadows. 9. Sip Guinness Belfast is famous for its cosy pubs. Take Great Victoria Street's The Crown, which opened in the 1920s and is now owned by the National Trust. The historic pub is packed with original features, including brocaded walls, mosaics and etched glass windows, and the most sought after spots are the cosy wooden snugs, complete with gunmetal plates that were once used for striking matches. Belfast is famous for its cosy pubs 10. Try an Ulster Fry A great way to fuel your exploration of Northern Ireland's capital, an Ulster Fry breakfast typically includes bacon, sausage, black pudding, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, soda bread and potato bread. Perhaps try it at Newtonards Road's Lamppost Cafe, where your hearty meal will be served on Insta-friendly vintage crockery. Originally published as 10 best things to do in Belfast
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Narnia' Star Ben Barnes Excited to See Greta Gerwig's Upcoming Netflix Films: ‘There's No End to the Ways They Can Be Adapted'
During the premiere of Stephen King's 'The Institute' in Los Angeles, actor Ben Barnes spoke about the excitement he has for Greta Gerwig's new adaptation of the 'Narnia' book series for Netflix. 'With classic literature, there's no end to the ways they can be adapted as long as it's being fresh and it's speaking to a new generation,' Barnes, whose breakout role was Prince Caspian in the 2008 and 2010 'The Chronicles of Narnia' films, told Variety. 'I think that those stories have this one, some fantasy really allows you to tell beautifully allegorical stories about hope and goodness and faith. I think that it'd be really interesting to see her take on that. I'm thrilled that ['Narnia'] is getting retold.' More from Variety Charlize Theron on Hanging Off a Helicopter in 'The Old Guard 2,' Possibility of Third Movie and Why She Hasn't Directed Yet: 'I Need My Kids to Get Out of the House' 'Old Guard 2' Star KiKi Layne on Panic Attacks, Cortisone Shots and Being a Black Female Action Hero: 'All of This Is Much Bigger Than Me' 'Jurassic World Rebirth' Star Manuel Garcia-Rulfo on His Character's 'Sexy' Shorts, Working with 'Hot Motherf--er' Jonathan Bailey and 'Lincoln Lawyer' Season 4 Gerwig is writing and directing the fantasy adventure, which reportedly follows 'The Magician's Nephew' — the sixth novel in the series by author C.S. Lewis. The cast will include Daniel Craig, Meryl Streep and Emma Mackey. Carey Mulligan is also said to be in talks to join the project. Barnes drew a parallel between his characters in 'The Institute' and 'Narnia,' and how both characters have similarities on saving the day for a younger cast of characters. 'When I was in my early twenties, I was involved in telling those stories for the next generation,' he said. 'So, to get back to playing a man with a real firm grasp on his moral compass, who is fighting to stand up for what's right. It was something that I was really interested in.' 'The Institute' follows Luke Ellis (Joe Freeman) as he is taken as a captive into an undisclosed facility, where he finds himself and other children and teenagers with the same mysterious abilities such as telekinesis and telepathy. The MGM+ series features a cast of Gen Z actors. ''I'm really excited for people to just see that resilience and reflect it in Gen Z as well because we have such a strong generation and to represent that is amazing,' says Simone Miller, who plays Kalisha, one of the fellow teenagers who finds herself trapped at the Institute. 'I know a lot of people may not know our younger cast. It may be the first time you're seeing them, but it will not be the last. They are so incredible and bring nuance to multifaceted characters and I'm just so proud to stand alongside them and watch them flourish and get to be a part of their journey.' Fionn Laird, who plays Nicky, one of the older teenagers who finds himself trapped at the Institute. 'I think I'm looking forward to them kind of seeing [Nicky] come out of his shell with Luke arriving at the institute and watching them at first be standoffish, but then having this brotherly relationship at certain points and watching that wax wane naturally.' During the premiere, director Jack Bender and executive producer Benjamin Carvell introduced the first episode of the season, with a special recorded message from King, who proclaimed that the show was a faithful adaptation of the 2019 book. 'The Institute' Premieres July 13 on MGM+. Best of Variety Oscars 2026: George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Wagner Moura and More Among Early Contenders to Watch New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts?
CNBC
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CNBC
How Netflix keeps luring big-name directors away from the traditional box office
Netflix isn't interested in bringing movies to theaters. The company's leaders have said they see theatrical movie releases as an "outdated" model. Yet for more than a decade, the streamer has lured in some of Hollywood's biggest directors to make content exclusively for its platform. Martin Scorsese, Alfonso Cuarón, Bong Joon-ho, Spike Lee and Guillermo del Toro, darlings of the big screen, have all directed films for the streaming service without the promise of a wide theatrical release. More recently, Netflix has wooed Greta Gerwig into the director's seat after acquiring the rights to C.S. Lewis' "The Chronicles of Narnia" book series, signed Rian Johnson to make two sequels to 2019's "Knives Out" and made itself the home of Kathryn Bigelow's first film release in nearly a decade. Many of these creatives have touted the importance of the theatrical experience, but few of the Netflix projects are expected to garner a wide release or a long run in cinemas. Most of the time, Netflix's films are launched in a limited number of theaters for a week, just long enough to be eligible for Academy Award contention. In fact, Gerwig's "Narnia" film is getting an exclusive two-week global debut in IMAX starting Thanksgiving Day 2026, something that has never been done before. Netflix has been able to bring Hollywood talent away from the traditional theatrical model by offering lucrative contracts, creative freedom and an audience pool of more than 300 million subscribers, Hollywood insiders, who requested anonymity to discuss industry moves, told CNBC. It's also become a haven for auteurs whose films might not otherwise get made, either because of pricey budgets or risky genres. "What Netflix offers filmmakers is an irresistible combination of deep financial pockets and wide creative latitude," said Paul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst at Comscore. "This is enough to draw some of the biggest names in filmmaking today both behind and in front of the camera, and it's striking since most of these notable names have built their careers on the canvas of the big screen in the movie theater." For as long as Netflix has been disrupting the traditional Hollywood model, analysts and box-office proponents have argued for why the streamer should embrace a more conventional theatrical approach. Every year or so, a study appears from a box-office analytics company or on behalf of one of Hollywood's theatrical trade groups concluding that audiences are more likely to stream a movie that's been released in theaters. "It seems like for most of the other traditional media companies the pendulum has flown back to the idea that, yes, theatrical does enhance the value of a movie," said Robert Fishman, analyst at MoffettNathanson. Hollywood insiders told CNBC that Netflix's leaders have long admitted that money is being left on the table by not employing a typical theatrical model. But Netflix's co-CEO, Ted Sarandos, has said he has no plans to change the company's box-office strategy. "It would be complicated for Netflix, a distraction from what they're trying to do," said industry analyst David Poland. "And it would be potentially money-losing." Sarandos has repeatedly said that Netflix's purpose is to provide content for its streaming subscribers, noting that the audience that pays for its service should get it as soon as possible, not wait for an extended theatrical window to elapse. Netflix has benefited from its partnership with Sony, which gives the streamer exclusive U.S. streaming rights to the studio's theatrical releases after they wrap up in theaters. With the deal, Netflix gets fresh content without the box-office risk. Of course, keeping subscribers happy is only part of the strategy. Netflix saves millions in marketing costs by skipping theaters, industry experts said. Typically, a film's marketing budget is half of what it spent on production. So a film like the Russo Brothers' "The Electric State," which reportedly cost $320 million to make, could have had up to a $160 million marketing budget if it went to theaters. That's a nearly $500 million investment before a theatrical opening, and a studio would then split ticket sales with cinemas. Notably, the film was originally slated to be produced under Universal Studios but was transferred to Netflix after executives at Universal balked at its steep budget, people familiar with the matter told CNBC. Success of a Netflix film is based on viewership, a metric that is not comparable to box-office dollars. "The Electric State" was streamed by 25.2 million subscribers in its first three days on the platform, according to Netflix's Tudum site at the time of its release. That is about one-third of what Netflix's "Red Notice" generated during its three-day launch in 2021. "Red Notice" is Netflix's best-performing film to date with more than 230.9 million views. It's hard for directors and other creatives to dismiss the kind of viewership Netflix brings, Hollywood insiders told CNBC. It's one of the reasons that Netflix has been able to draw in big-name directors, writers and producers over the last decade. Netflix has also been more flexible with its purse strings. "The Electric State" is just one example. Scorsese's "The Irishman" also saw studios pass on the film because of its ballooning budget, but Netflix stepped in and acquired the rights. The film went on to garner 10 Oscar nominations, although it ultimately went home empty-handed during the 2020 ceremony. "Netflix, because they have interest in getting awards and nominations and all that stuff, have funded and purchased and been involved with directors who are really high-quality filmmakers worldwide," Poland said. "It's a tribute to Netflix that those movies exist." The streamer has had at least one best picture contender at the Academy Awards since 2019. The company has not been shy about spending money to secure top talent either. It's signed dozens of lucrative first-look deals with creators, which give it the exclusive right to review and potentially purchase or distribute a new project before it is offered to other buyers. Past deals have run the gamut between television and film and included creators like Tyler Perry, Antoine Fuqua, Shonda Rhimes and Jennifer Lopez. Netflix has even been more targeted in its contracts, as was seen when it penned a two-picture deal with Johnson for sequels to his 2019 film "Knives Out," which reportedly was for more than $400 million. "It would be tough for any creative to turn down the offer of the financial resources to realize their creative vision. And despite wanting their movies to be seen on the biggest screen possible, [they] have made the calculus that getting their works realized on film and presented on a major streaming platform is a bargain worth making," Dergarabedian said. Wall Street doesn't seem to mind Netflix's movie strategy. The company's stock is valued at nearly $1,300 a share and has soared 45% since January and more than 90% in the past year. Netflix is expected to spend around $18 billion on content this year, according to the company. It does not disclose what percentage of that funding goes to its movies versus its television productions. The company currently projects that its full-year 2025 revenue will be between $43.5 billion and $44.5 billion. Insiders said that with those kinds of investments, consumers might need to watch out for more price hikes. MoffettNathanson's Fishman noted that Netflix will continue to weigh its value proposition to determine if it needs to increase the cost of its services. If Netflix keeps creating content from top-tier creators, then the analyst firm expects prices to increase.
Style Blueprint
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Style Blueprint
Your Guide to 30A Bookstores & More
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit There's something magical about reading at the beach — the salty breeze, the sound of waves, the freedom to lose track of time. Along 30A's picture-perfect coastline, a small handful of independently owned bookstores make the experience even more memorable. Whether you're searching for your next page-turner, a locally inspired gift, or just a cozy corner to explore, these charming locations on (or near) 30A each offer their own personality and coastal appeal. Sundog Books Neighborhood: Seaside More Info: An absolute icon of Seaside, Sundog Books feels like the heart of this charming town square. Housed in a whitewashed cottage with wraparound porches and creaky wood floors, it's the kind of place you stumble onto and end up spending hours. The shelves are lined with bestsellers, travel guides, Southern fiction, and children's books, but it's the handwritten staff picks and community vibe that make it shine. Upstairs, Central Square Records shares the space and adds a retro vibe with vinyl, turntables, and music memorabilia. Grab an iced coffee, sit on the front porch swing, and soak in the small-town magic. The store is also known for supporting regional authors and hosting events, making it a literary hub as vibrant as its coastal backdrop. Pin 2nd & Charles Neighborhood: Miramar Beach More Info: If you love the thrill of the hunt, 2nd & Charles in Miramar Beach is a dream. This sprawling space offers a massive inventory of gently used and new books, plus vinyl records, games, tech accessories, toys, and gifts with a fun, nostalgic twist. You can trade in books you've already read for store credit or discover something unexpected for just a few dollars. It's the kind of place where book lovers can spend an entire afternoon uncovering treasures across every genre. There's even a cozy seating area if you want to flip through your finds before heading out. With its ever-changing inventory and frequent deals, each visit feels like a brand-new adventure. The Hidden Lantern Neighborhood: Rosemary Beach More info: Just off the cobblestone streets of Rosemary Beach, The Hidden Lantern is quiet, artful, and beautifully curated. Known for its deep literary selection and a focus on art, design, philosophy, and poetry, this is a bookstore for those who read with intention. Inside, natural light filters through tall windows onto orderly rows of hardcovers and paperbacks, while an attached fine art gallery showcases regional artists and contemporary works. It's an elegant and meditative space — perfect for those who want a thoughtful browsing experience before wandering the boutiques or settling in for wine and oysters nearby. The name itself is a subtle nod to The Chronicles of Narnia, evoking the image of the hidden lamppost that guided Lucy into another world. Similarly, stepping inside feels like entering a literary escape all your own. Pin Free Little Libraries Along 30A For those who love a bit of serendipity in their reading life, 30A is dotted with charming 'Little Library' stations — free book-exchange boxes nestled near some of the area's most beloved beach access points. You'll spot them at places like Grayton Beach, Santa Clara, Blue Mountain Creamery, Seagrove, Seacrest, and Walton Dunes, each stocked by locals and beachgoers alike with everything from paperback novels to children's books. These whimsical wooden boxes invite you to take a book, leave a book, and connect with the quiet generosity of the community. It's a delightful way to stumble upon a hidden literary gem or pass along a favorite beach read, and a perfect little ritual for book lovers strolling between the sand and the sidewalk. Pin Walton County Coastal Library Neighborhood: Santa Rosa Beach More Info: Just a short drive inland from the shorelines of 30A, the Walton County Coastal Library in Santa Rosa Beach offers a more traditional — yet equally welcoming — literary retreat. This full-service public library features a cozy reading room, local history archives, and regular programming that includes author talks, book clubs, and art exhibits. Visitors can pop in for a quiet place to read or recharge, while long-term guests and residents can enjoy free Wi-Fi, community resources, and an impressive collection of books, movies, and audiobooks. It's a peaceful, enriching space that balances coastal charm with small-town hospitality, and a wonderful reminder that, even on vacation, public libraries remain the heart of any community. From the artsy to the whimsical, these bookstores prove that 30A's charm isn't limited to its beaches. Whether you're a casual reader or a lifelong bibliophile, you'll find inspiration — and maybe your next favorite story — just steps from the shore. ********** For a daily dose of style + substance delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to StyleBlueprint! About the Author Dallas Jackson A resident of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Dallas Jackson is an editorial strategist with nearly 20 years of experience leading high-impact content teams and driving digital growth across top media brands. Dallas is passionate about brand-building, sports, and life on 30A.
