Latest news with #VforVendetta
Fast Company
29-07-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
Will your next CEO be AI?
It's 3:16 a.m., in a Mumbai hotel room and I'm wide awake. Not because of jet lag, but because somewhere, an AI CEO is making a better decision than I ever could. No fear. No bias. No sleep. It's processing board directives, analyzing global market shifts, cross-referencing geopolitical tensions with local weather patterns, all while monitoring the emotional health of 1,200 digital employees. It's not just leading; it's governing. And it doesn't blink. We've entered the Minority Report era of work: The AI CEO is preemptive, perceptive, predictive, agentic, proactively precise, and will one day exist. The idea of a non-human CEO, an AI entity driven by a large language model, and company board, trained not just on data, but culture, markets, emotion, is no longer the stuff of Philip K. Dick fever dreams. It's now a legitimate (and controversial) proposition in the future of organizational design in business. But it's not without precedent. Remember Zordon from Power Rangers? The disembodied digital mentor who never stepped into the battlefield yet orchestrated everything with absolute authority. Or Charlie from Charlie's Angels, a faceless voice commanding loyalty and precision. Even Severance, Ben Stiller's surreal corporate dystopia, presents a board that may or may not be human. We've been preparing for this idea in fiction for decades. The CEO as unseen oracle, algorithmic overlord, benevolent ghost in the machine. Imagine this: an AI CEO governed by a human board and flanked by a COO, CMO, and other operational figureheads. These aren't just advisors. They're reality-checkers, ethical anchors, and co-pilots. But the CEO? It's software. An algorithmic commander-in-chief without ego, distraction, or self-preservation instincts. No bodyguards. No bunkers. No scandals. Or privacy and security concerns. This idea isn't just about efficiency. It's about reimagining community and collaboration in the workplace. The rise of digital employees Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, recently predicted this is the last era we'll see non-digital employees. Whether that's hyperbole or not, the trajectory is clear: AI agents are becoming teammates. They write, design, code, analyze, and eventually they will lead. With that shift comes a complete rewrite of what HR even means. When your workforce is 50% digital and 50% human, talent development, conflict resolution, and wellness programs take on a very different shape. In this new model, IT doesn't just manage servers and software. It becomes the central nervous system of the organization, merging with HR to manage identities, behavior, motivation, and even morale. Digital employees don't take PTO, but they still need calibration. They can burn out metaphorically, if not literally, when their learning models are misaligned with real-world goals. The CEO as a construct This isn't the first time we've seen leadership abstracted into symbol. In the Wachowskis' V for Vendetta, the Chancellor is a towering face on a screen, more ideology than individual. In the real world, scroll social media and see Palantir Technologies' Chief Alex Karp escorted by security, living with the knowledge that decisions made behind closed doors can have deadly consequences. What happens when we replace that human target with an incorruptible, untouchable AI? Leadership becomes omnipresent. Less person, more presence. A voice that responds immediately to shareholder concerns at 2 a.m. A strategist that never forgets a data point, a promise, or a line in the P&L. This is not about replacing humans. It's about reassigning them to more human roles: building culture, challenging assumptions, storytelling, crafting the emotional resonance of a brand. The AI CEO doesn't take over your company. It frees your people to think bigger. From chaos to clarity The strongest leaders today aren't just operators. They're futurists. The best CEOs I've met are visionaries. But they're also exhausted. Because the world moves too fast for any one brain to keep up. Climate. Conflict. Culture wars. Every decision is a minefield. An AI CEO doesn't suffer decision fatigue. It consumes millions of inputs, identifies second- and third-order consequences, predicts crisis, and proposes action before it occurs. It took Pfizer and BioNTech 100 days to create the COVID vaccine, imagine if we were able to predict the pandemic six to eight month before is began, perhaps there'd be no pandemic. That's where the Minority Report reference hits hardest. It's pre-crime, but for business breakdowns: predicting talent turnover, spotting toxic cultural shifts, identifying PR flare-ups before they happen. It doesn't eliminate risk. It manages it with superhuman clarity. Possible pitfalls Could this become dystopian? Of course. An AI CEO without ethical oversight could drift into utilitarianism. Could it be manipulated by biased training data or malicious prompts? Potentially. Could it alienate human workers who feel surveilled or second-guessed by code? Definitely. Worse yet, we risk slipping into digital feudalism, a future where the owners of algorithmic leadership rule over knowledge workers and digital laborers alike, where the true decision makers aren't in the building and never were. But here's the thing: every breakthrough starts with discomfort. The printing press threatened religious institutions. The internet threatened gatekeepers. Self-driving vehicles threaten auto and manufacturing industry. AI leadership will threaten legacy ego and hierarchy. But it could also unlock a future where empathy, transparency, and scale coexist. Leading Without a Pulse I'm not saying we launch an AI CEO tomorrow. But I am saying the prototype already exists. In every company leaning into data-driven decision-making, in every organizational chart that gives AI its own department, in every executive who uses ChatGPT to write strategy decks, we're already testing it. What I am calling for is an open imagination. The willingness to explore a future where leadership is not determined by charisma or pedigree, but by precision and perspective.
Tom's Guide
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
5 best political thriller movies to stream on Netflix
If you're into stories full of secrets, shady deals and power games that spiral out of control, political thrillers might just be your next obsession. Lucky for you, Netflix has a solid lineup ready to stream. Whether it's a globe-trotting spy drama or something ripped straight from real headlines, these movies don't hold back on the suspense. They're smart, intense, and often way too real for comfort. So if you're in the mood for something gripping that'll keep you guessing (and maybe even questioning everything), here are some of the best political thrillers to stream on Netflix right now. 'V for Vendetta' is probably the most dystopian political thriller out there. Set in a near-future Britain ruled by a totalitarian regime, the story follows Evey (Natalie Portman), a young woman who crosses paths with V (Hugo Weaving), a masked anarchist determined to ignite revolution. What starts as a fight against personal injustice quickly grows into a movement that challenges the very foundations of government control, surveillance, and fear. The movie's message about resistance and speaking truth to power is just as relevant now as it was when it debuted. Backed by stylish visuals, unforgettable dialogue, and a haunting score, 'V for Vendetta' has earned cult status, and for good reason. It's the kind of movie that leaves you thinking for a while. Stream it on Netflix Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. When former Special Forces soldier Sara Wulf (Jeanne Goursaud), haunted by PTSD, brings her young son Josh to the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt, a routine visit spirals into a nightmare. Josh disappears without a trace and consulate officials insist she never brought him in. With German authorities powerless (the building is in an exterritorial area), Sara is dismissed as mentally unstable and told to leave. Refusing to back down, Sara hides inside the building and taps into her military training. As she digs deeper, she discovers a conspiracy led by consulate security officer Eric Kynch (Dougray Scott). With unexpected help from Irina (Lera Abova), Sara turns the consulate into her battlefield, racing against time to find her son and expose the corruption. 'Exterritorial' is a chilling look at how international diplomacy and power can be twisted to protect the guilty. Stream it on Netflix Want a slow-burn thriller that grabs you by the throat and never quite lets go? 'Sicario' is the one to watch. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, it dives deep into the murky moral territory of the U.S.–Mexico drug war, where the line between right and wrong is blurred beyond recognition. Emily Blunt plays an idealistic FBI agent who's recruited into a covert task force led by a shadowy government official (Josh Brolin) and an even more mysterious operative (Benicio del Toro, in one of his most chilling performances). As the mission unfolds, she's pulled further into a world of backdoor deals and brutal justice. It's a tense, atmospheric ride that trades shootouts for psychological pressure and dread, and it's all grounded in a frighteningly real political backdrop. Stream it on Netflix 'Wasp Network' is based on real events and packed with espionage, double lives, and political stakes that ripple across borders. Set in the 1990s, the movie follows a group of Cuban defectors in Miami who appear to be starting fresh, but are secretly working for Fidel Castro's regime. Édgar Ramírez leads as René González, a Cuban pilot who leaves his wife and daughter behind to join an anti-Castro exile group in Florida. But as layers peel back, loyalties shift, and the true scope of the mission becomes clear. Penélope Cruz, Gael García Bernal, and Ana de Armas round out the cast, bringing emotional weight and complexity to this political puzzle. This political spy thriller is more methodical and dialogue-heavy, but its real-life inspiration gives it undeniable punch. Stream it on Netflix Based on a remarkable true story, 'The Angel' dives into the shadowy world of espionage during a tense moment in Middle Eastern history. It follows Ashraf Marwan (Marwan Kenzari), an Egyptian insider who secretly becomes one of Israel's most valuable spies. Set during the lead-up to the 1973 Yom Kippur War, the movie follows Marwan, the son-in-law of Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, as he carefully walks a dangerous tightrope between two nations. While outwardly serving the Egyptian government, he secretly passes crucial intelligence to Israel. Tense and surprisingly emotional, 'The Angel' is a true political thriller through and through, with real-world consequences and pulse-pounding intrigue that make it stand out in Netflix's international lineup. Stream it on Netflix
Metro
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Dystopian thriller dubbed 'provocative and disturbing' now streaming on Netflix
A 'disturbing' thriller film with a star-studded cast is now available to stream on Netflix. With a cast made up of Hugo Weaving, Natalie Portman, Stephen Fry, John Hurt, and Rupert Graves, V for Vendetta was released in 2006 and directed by James McTeigue. Set in a dystopian totalitarian Britain, it follows a masked freedom fighter known simply as V (Weaving) who uses terrorist tactics to fight the oppressive regime. When he saves Evey (Portman) from the secret police, he gains a new ally in his fight against the tyrannical government. It is based on the DC graphic novel series of the same name, and anti-establishment political groups have adopted V's iconic Guy Fawkes mask over the years to promote their beliefs. Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. V For Vendetta was a box office success, raking in $134.7 million (£90M) worldwide against a budget of around $50M (£36.7M). To mark its 20th anniversary, the film has arrived on Netflix for users to stream right now. It holds a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the critics' consensus reading: 'Visually stunning and thought-provoking, V For Vendetta's political pronouncements may rile some, but its story and impressive set pieces will nevertheless entertain.' Cinefilia wrote in their review: 'Not only do I think it's a pretty prophetic cult film, but it's also fast-paced and highly entertaining narrating its dystopia about the anarchist vigilante wearing the Guy Fawkes mask to fight a totalitarian regime.' Oulook dubbed it 'a bizarre, farcical, political allegory-cum-thriller,' while USA Today said it was 'visually exhilarating, provocative and disturbing.' New York Post added: 'Just when we were ready to give up mainstream movies as braindead, along comes the controversial and gleefully subversive V for Vendetta, a piece of corporate-sponsored art that will have audiences rooting for a bomb-throwing anarchist.' 'Whether you're mindless or Mensa, you'll find stuff here to challenge and trouble you, the way a good piece of speculative fiction should,' TIME Magazine said. summarised: 'V for Vendetta is the ballsiest major Hollywood motion picture I've seen this young millennium.' Speaking to IndieLondon, Star Wars icon Portman explained what it was about V for Vendetta that attracted her to the project. 'It was very interesting for me to consider the mindset of someone who goes from being non-violent to being drawn towards using violence to express her political beliefs,' she explained. More Trending 'I enjoyed the fact that it was a complicated journey that can be interpreted on many different levels – maybe she's being manipulated, maybe she's finding her true self, and just developing pragmatism over idealism. 'I appreciated the complicated view of what would make someone want to do this sort of thing.' V For Vendetta is streaming now on Netflix Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Superman's new Lois Lane hopes latest superhero reboot 'does the fans proud' MORE: Netflix star apologises after 'leaking major spoiler' 6 months before finale MORE: Netflix thriller climbs up top 10 with new season despite being labelled 'tripe'
Tom's Guide
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
Netflix just added a gripping dystopian thriller movie — and there's never been a better time to watch it
In the words of Olivia Rodrigo, 'it's brutal out here' (yes, I've had the pop stars' Glastonbury headline set on repeat this week). I'm sure I'm not the only one who finds the current state of society in general more than a little concerning, and that's where 'V for Vendetta' comes in. This 2005 dystopian action-thriller arrives on Netflix this month and presents a future vision of the United Kingdom where the country is ruled through media propaganda and extreme suppression. Okay, so things aren't quite that bad in the U.K. in 2025, but still, the movie's commentary on a cruel, totalitarian government feels more timely than ever. Putting the politics of the comic book movie aside, taken on its own merits, it's still a gripping watch, anchored by excellent leading performances from Natalie Portman and Hugo Weaving. Plus, John Hurt pops up in a supporting role, which is a nice bit of synergy, considering the 'Alien' star also featured in the most popular movie adaptation of 'Nineteen Eighty-Four," pretty much the biggest name in dystopian fiction. So, if you're looking for an engaging action-thriller movie with something worthwhile to say, this week, here's why 'V for Vendetta' should be at the top of your Netflix watchlist. Based on the popular DC Comics graphic novel of the same name by Alan Moore, David Lloyd and Tony Weare, 'V for Vendetta' takes viewers to a future Britain ruled over by the Norsefire party. It's ruthless leader, High Chancellor Adam Sutler (Hurt), ensures the population is controlled using totalitarian methods like propaganda and public executions. Evey Hammond (Portman) works for a state-influenced TV network, but her life is thrown into chaos when she encounters V (Weaving), a mask-wearing vigilante who is working to spark a revolution. After aiding V's escape from Norsefire enforcers, Evey becomes a public enemy and must go into hiding. Slowly developing a bond with V, the pair are hunted down by a police inspector (Stephen Rea). But as he gets closer to uncovering V's whereabouts and his mysterious past, he begins to wonder if he's become a pawn in a corrupt system. 'V for Vendetta' was already a great movie in 2005, and its message about the power that the general population can wield when united under a worthy cause is increasingly worth listening to. Plus, its nods to propaganda and the dangers of misinformation are undeniably relevant in our current social media age, where 'fake news' can spread unchecked like wildfire. But as noted, even divorced from its core message, 'V for Vendetta' is a rip-roaring thrill ride that packs well-choreographed action and a gripping plot with plenty of reveals and some seriously slick moments. I particularly enjoy the ending, which ties it all together neatly. V's Guy Fawkes mask has become a rallying symbol for several anti-establishment groups over the past two decades, which has served to only enhance the movie's enduring reputation. It's a slick and effective dystopian thriller with plenty of substance beyond the fast-paced action and well-paced plot. Over on Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a strong 90% score from viewers, and while the critics score is a little lower at 76%, the site's consensus reads, 'Visually stunning and thought-provoking, 'V For Vendetta's' political pronouncements may rile some, but its story and impressive set pieces will nevertheless entertain.' Not quite feeling this one, or seen it already? Here's a guide to everything new on Netflix in July 2025, which includes plenty of watchlist-worthy movies and bingeable TV shows. Watch "V for Vendetta" on Netflix now
Daily Record
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Netflix latest 'must-watch' film for royal fans with star-studded cast
The Other Boleyn Girl, which is currently available to stream on Netflix, stars two of Hollywood's biggest actresses and has been praised by viewers for its 'very good' acting. The understated period drama The Other Boleyn Girl, released in 2008 and featuring Scarlett Johansson alongside other top-tier talent, has been praised for its "very good" performances. Set in the 16th century, it tells the story of royal affairs. At the heart of the film is Mary Boleyn, once a consort of King Henry VIII, and her sister Anne, whose ultimate fate was to face execution by the same king. It is now currently available to stream on Netflix. A critic from Rotten Tomatoes observed: "With all of the dukes, earls, counts, viscounts, countesses, and whatnot to keep track of, The Other Boleyn Girl will probably appeal primarily to fans of British royalty and all of the associated hoopla that goes along with it." Dipping into an era thick with scandal, the storyline delves into the dramatic episodes that culminate in Anne Boleyn's harrowing downfall, depicting her union with the monarch as fraught with treachery and anguish. The beheading of Anne Boleyn in 1536 on charges of treason marked a pivotal moment, setting alight the sparks of the English Reformation, as reported by the Mirror. Natalie Portman plays the ill-starred Anne Boleyn, Scarlett Johansson embodies Mary, while Eric Bana takes on the role of King Henry VIII. Following her celebrated performance in the memorable V for Vendetta, Portman embraces the bygone epoch with hair extensions for her role. Commentators have remarked: "Very good acting from both Portman and Johansson. An overall good watch. Not periodically sound, but the execution was very good." The Other Boleyn Girl compellingly recasts a family entrenched in political machinations, vying for influence over the king. The film not only offers a window into the alleged off-stage drama within the Royal Family, but also sets itself against a pivotal chapter in British history, marking the era when Henry VIII made divorce part of the country's narrative. Despite the consensus that the performances are a highlight, the movie has encountered its fair share of critics. A spectator remarked: "I found the movie to be very entertaining. I don't know what happened in the past history for the events that occurred, but the movie itself was quite good." Upon its release, The Guardian awarded the production a respectable three stars out of five, dubbing it a "flashy, silly, undeniably entertaining Tudor romp". Someone in the audience noted the film as a "routinely narrated story". They added: "Here it is told well with a great cast delivering performances that are trying to keep pace given the squeezing of so much into such a relatively short time frame. Yes, it takes liberties with the original how else do you retell it? Certainly worth a watch."
