“What is a hero?”

The concept of heroism often evokes images of mythical legends, their larger-than-life exploits fueling our imaginations and shaping our ideals. We tend to view these figures as symbols of strength and resilience, their stories offering escapism and inspiration. And perhaps no hero, or in instance, superhero, embodies these qualities more than Superman, the Man of Steel who captured the hearts of millions with his unwavering commitment to truth and justice. And when it comes to the big screen, there will always be Christopher Reeve, who made the world believe that a man can fly. With his chiselled physique and unwavering gaze, Reeve first brought the Last Son of Krypton to life in Richard Donner’s Superman (1978), forever etching his image into the pantheon of cinematic heroes.

Reeve’s portrayal of Superman was so convincing, so perfectly aligned with the comic book ideal, that the tragic accident that befell him in 1995 felt particularly cruel. Thrown from a horse during an equestrian competition, Reeve suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralysed from the neck down. The irony of Superman, a symbol of invincibility, becoming confined to a wheelchair was not lost on the world. It was a devastating blow, not just for Reeve and his loved ones, but for the millions who had come to see him as the embodiment of heroic ideals.

This profound irony is explored with great sensitivity and depth in Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, a documentary that chronicles Reeve’s life, inevitably focusing on the accident and its aftermath. The film allows Reeve to speak with intimate candour about his initial despair and the surreal nightmare he experienced.

“We need all the heroes we can get,” Reeve states near the beginning of the documentary, a sentiment that resonates throughout the film. Directors Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, known for their nuanced approach to biographical documentaries along the likes of McQueen (2018) – a documentary that shone light on British fashion designer Alexander McQueen – and Paralympic Games-focused Rising Phoenix (2020), strike a delicate balance between celebrating Reeve’s iconic status and exploring the personal struggles he faced after his accident. Unlike their previous subject (McQueen) who tragically succumbed to his demons, Reeve’s story is one of resilience and triumph over adversity.

For those unfamiliar with the cultural landscape of 1978, it’s difficult to grasp the monumental impact of Donner’s Superman, which rose above the initial scepticism and the unexpected triumph of Reeve’s performance. Reeve was among the many who were in the running for the role of Superman, with the most notable being A-listers like Paul Newman (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Hustler) and Robert Redford (All the President’s Men, The Natural). Even Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator, Predator) and singer-songwriter Neil Diamond expressed interest in donning the iconic red cape.

Superman catapulted the then-unknown Broadway actor to superstardom, his portrayal of the Man of Steel becoming the definitive interpretation for a generation. At a time when superhero movies were mainly a joke or a rarity, Reeve’s embodiment of both the bumbling Clark Kent and the awe-inspiring Superman proved to be a winning combination, captivating audiences and critics alike. Even the briefest glimpses of Reeve soaring through the skies with Margot Kidder’s Lois Lane, accompanied by John Williams’ iconic score, are enough to evoke a sense of wonder. His performance in Superman II (1980) further solidified his status, showcasing the duality of Clark Kent and Superman with remarkable nuance.

While acknowledging the influence of the Superman films on Reeve’s career, the documentary doesn’t shy away from his later cynicism towards the role, touching upon his frustration with being typecast and his disappointment with the declining quality of Superman III (1983) and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987). Thankfully, the film wisely chooses not to dwell on these aspects, recognising that Reeve’s story extends far beyond his superhero persona.

Nevertheless, there’s no denying that Reeve’s image as Superman, a symbol of strength and invincibility, amplified the shock and sorrow when he reappeared in public at the 1996 Academy Awards, less than a year after his accident. The documentary featured footage of Reeve’s journey to the Oscars, revealing the logistical challenges and emotional weight of his public return. This powerful moment is further enriched by the revelation of longtime friend and Juilliard schoolmate Robin Williams’ (Dead Poets Society, Good Will Hunting) instrumental role in orchestrating Reeve’s appearance, showcasing the depth of their friendship and unwavering support. Glenn Close (Fatal Attraction, 101 Dalmatians), a close friend of both actors, even suggested that Williams’ own tragic passing might have been prevented had Reeve still been alive.

Beyond Reeve’s public persona and struggles, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story also delves into the deeply personal topic of family. His three children, Alexandra, Matthew, and Will, offer intimate reflections on their father, their words interwoven with heartwarming home videos and archival footage that capture the joy and love within their family. The film traces Reeve’s evolving relationships, from his ten-year partnership with British modelling agent Gae Exton, with whom he had two children (Alexandra and Matthew), to his marriage to actress-singer Dana Reeve (née Morosini), the mother of his youngest son, Will. 

Although Reeve and Exton never married and eventually parted ways – a decision that eerily echoed the marital patterns of his own parents – his subsequent marriage to Morosini displayed a profound depth of love and commitment. This relationship proved pivotal, offering Reeve a stable family life that was crucial in overcoming his bouts of depression. The dynamic within their blended family, with Dana warmly embracing Alexandra and Matthew while nurturing a strong sibling bond with Will, highlights a cohesive familial unit. Even Exton remained a part of their lives, and the film captures a particularly poignant moment as she reflects on her relationship with Reeve, along with the enduring affection they shared. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story is its ability to find hope and resilience amidst tragedy. While acknowledging the devastating impact of Reeve’s accident, the film centres on his extraordinary journey of recovery (he learned to breathe, speak, and ultimately, to live a fulfilling life), and his transformation into a passionate advocate for the disabled, chronicling his tireless efforts to raise awareness and secure funding for spinal cord injury research. In doing so, Reeve stepped off his superhero pedestal and became a true human hero, his empathy and determination shining brighter than any fictional superpower. 

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles,” says Reeve in his autobiography, Still Me (1998). Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story embodies this sentiment, offering an intimate and achingly honest portrait of a man who redefined heroism. It’s a must-see documentary that celebrates Reeve’s legacy, not just as a cinematic icon, but as a beacon of hope and resilience for those facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. Just remember the tissues – this narrative, rich with triumph and tearful moments, demands them.

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It’s back to the drawing board for Sony Pictures TV and Amazon MGM Studios, who are starting from scratch for Prime Video’s God of War, a series based on PlayStation’s smash hit video game of the same name.

According to Deadline, this comes after the departure of showrunner and executive producer Rafe Judkins, alongside fellow executive producers Hawk Ostby and Mark Fergus. The trio left the project after completing various scripts for the show’s first season, with the studio reportedly considering a move to a different creative direction by hiring a new writing team for the series.

The series was first announced in 2022 and is set to follow the events of 2018’s God of War, which sees protagonist Kratos journeying with his son Atreus to the highest peak in the realm to scatter his late wife’s ashes.

Santa Monica Studio’s God of War franchise remains one of the most well-known IPs in gaming, spanning a total of seven games across four generations of PlayStation consoles. Originally focused on Greek mythology, 2018’s soft-reboot transitioned the series to the Norse realm, earning universal acclaim alongside its 2022 sequel, God of War Ragnarok.

Produced by Sony Pictures TV and MGM Amazon Studios, and in association with PlayStation Productions, the God of War series has been in production since March 2022. Despite the departure of key creative personnel, Santa Monica Studio’s Cory Barlog and Yumi Yang will remain as executive producers on the project, alongside head of PlayStation Productions Asad Qizilbash, senior producer Carter Swan, and Vertigo Entertainment’s Roy Lee.

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Xbox has wrapped up its Partner Preview Showcase today, unveiling both cinematic and gameplay trailers for its upcoming games. With a slew of titles announced in just a short, roughly 30-minute livestream, here’s a handy round-up of everything shown.

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is an upcoming soulslike action role-playing game featuring intense combat utilising a mix of swordplay and magical abilities. The game follows protagonist Wuchang as she unravels the secrets of her past while afflicted by the horrific Feathering disease. The title launches day one with Xbox Game Pass in 2025.

Alan Wake 2: The Lake House DLC

As Agent Estevez, players will return to Cauldron Lake and explore the twisted halls of the Lake House, a mysterious facility set up by the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC), and unravel the dark mysteries within in Alan Wake 2’s upcoming expansion, coming 22 October 2024.

FBC: Firebreak

Have you ever played 2019’s Control and thought, “I wish I could play this in first-person and with my friends”? Well, good news folks, FBC: Firebreak is a three-player co-op shooter set within the FBC where players can get up close and personal with the Hiss and pump them full of lead. The game is set to release in 2025.

Cronos: The New Dawn

Coming in 2025, Cronos: The New Dawn is an upcoming combat-driven third-person survival horror game by Bloober Team, the minds behind Layers of Fear, The Medium and Blair Witch.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

The latest trailer for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii shows off more of the game’s bombastic combat, alongside a first look at its naval battles, which evokes the same feeling as those seen in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. The game launches on 21 February 2025.

Mouse: P.I. For Hire

For anyone who loves classic cartoons but wishes they were a little less kid-friendly, Mouse: P.I. For Hire will scratch that itch in 2025 with a gritty, noir-fuelling first-person shooter, presented in black-and-white for that extra nostalgia kick.

Subnautica 2

Dive into the deep and face the alien horrors lurking below in Subnautica 2, the highly-anticipated sequel to Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero, coming 2025.

Mistfall Hunter

Mistfall Hunter adopts the well-established extraction shooter formula with an RPG twist. Kill creatures, collect loot and try to get out unscathed when the game launches in 2025.

Eternal Strands

Coming in early 2025 as a Day One Game Pass title, Eternal Strands pits players against massive foes with a combat system centred around combining spells of three different types: Frost, flame and kinetic.

EDENS ZERO

Adapted from Hiro Mashima’s hit manga, EDENS ZERO takes players to the stars and beyond as they adventure across the Sakura Cosmos. The fantasy action RPG is set to release in 2025.

Wheel World

Deck out your bike and hit the road in Wheel World in early 2025, a semi-open world biking title featuring a cell-shaded art style reminiscent of 2021’s indie hit, Sable.

The Legend of Baboo

Coming 2025, The Legend of Baboo follows Sepehr and his loyal dog Baboo as they embark on a journey through magical lands to rescue their family from a dark and ancient evil. But here’s the more important question: will we be able to pet the dog?

Phasmophobia Xbox Release

Chicken out and leave your friends behind in Phasmophobia, as the widely popular ghost-hunting horror game finally gets its Xbox release on 29 October 2024.

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The Bleach manga covers are no stranger to decking its characters out in fashionable wear (or “drip”, as modern lingo would call it), so it’s only apt that the beloved series is celebrating its 20th anniversary with some sneaker flair. Japanese footwear brand Asics has joined forces with Tite Kubo’s anime classic to roll out a limited edition collaboration honouring two of its main characters, Ichigo Kurosaki and Renji Abarai.

Represented on the GT-2160, the former-themed kicks tout his signature palette of orange, black, and white. The spine of the heel is furnished with the Substitute Shinigami emblem, while the kanji spelling out his name can be found right next to it on the left-footed fit. On the inside is the Bleach branding, printed on the tongue.

Similarly, the Gel-NYC silhouette takes after Renji’s aesthetics. The red-and-black colourway is accompanied by a white sole and his name on the side of the left shoe, alongside the characters for the Sixth Division on the foxing. Both pairs of sneakers will be released in special packaging and men’s sizing, with prices ranging from US$145 to US$165.

The ASICS X Bleach collection launches sometime this holiday season, and can be purchased via Foot Locker and Champs Sports online and in-store. There’s no word on whether it will eventually be available outside of the U.S., but it’s set to debut at New York Comic Con, running from 17 to 20 October. It’s unclear if attendees will be able to buy the sneakers then, however.

This collaboration comes as Part 3 of Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, subtitled The Conflict, kicked off on 5 October. The anime’s first season premiered in October 2022, marking a welcome return after a ten-year hiatus and exciting fans with a brand-new, visually arresting art style. It adapts the final arc of the manga, which spans volumes 55 to 74, and will wrap up with four non-consecutive cours (quarters of a year).

Other 20th anniversary projects include a celebratory video that revisits iconic scenes from the original anime in the stylish, modern style the revival series is known for, and the forthcoming Bleach: Rebirth of Souls fighting game, due out in 2025.

The ASICS X Bleach collection will hit the streets when Holiday 2024 rolls around.

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Apple is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its mobile payment service, Apple Pay, announcing that its service will evolve in the near future and provide additional features, alongside expanded instalment loan options.

As part of its global rollout, Apple will partner with DBS Bank in Singapore, granting access to instalment loan options for eligible credit or debit cards. Options outside of Singapore also include ANZ in Australia, Citi and Synchrony in the United States, and CaixaBank in Spain.

This news follows Apple’s decision in June to roll back plans for its Pay Later feature, instead prioritising partnerships with local financial institutes worldwide. This would allow banking partners to stay connected with Apple Pay instead of competing with the Cupertino giant directly.

In addition, Apple Pay users in Singapore will soon be able to redeem rewards when they check out with Apple Pay online or in-app on iOS devices. This feature is steadily being rolled out for eligible DBS cards locally but has already kicked off for users in the U.S. with iOS 18, with the ability to see their PayPal balance when using their PayPal debit card coming to Apple Wallet next year.

On the Apple Newsroom, Jennifer Bailey, Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, expressed excitement about providing users with more ways to pay and offering enhanced flexibility, while maintaining the high levels of trust and security that users expect.

“From the outset, we envisioned a world where you could use your iPhone to seamlessly pay for everything, all while keeping your personal and financial information safe and private,” said Bailey.

Apple Pay is currently used worldwide by hundreds of millions of consumers across 78 markets, available on millions of websites and physical storefronts, and is supported by more than 11,000 bank and network partners. The platform can now be accessed on third-party browsers and computers.

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In an exciting development for sci-fi and thriller fans, Josh Brolin has been cast as the antagonist in Edgar Wright’s upcoming adaptation of Stephen King’s dystopian novel, The Running Man, according to Deadline.

The Running Man revolves around Ben Richards, played by Glen Powell, a man coerced into participating in a brutal televised chase where he must evade capture by authorities for a month to win a massive cash prize. The game is lethal, with hunters authorised to kill. This narrative was previously adapted in 1987 with Arnold Schwarzenegger in the lead, but Wright’s version promises to stay truer to King’s original vision.

Wright, acclaimed for directing Baby Driver and Shaun of the Dead, co-writes this adaptation with 21 Jump Street‘s Michael Bacall. The ensemble cast also includes Katy O’Brian from Love Lies Bleeding, Nocturnal Animals‘ Karl Glusman, and All American‘s Daniel Ezra, contributing to what is anticipated to be a gripping rendition of King’s work.

As a precursor to modern survival stories like The Hunger Games and Battle Royale, The Running Man offers a critical look at society’s fascination with spectacle and punishment. Fans are hopeful that Wright’s take will deliver a compelling narrative that does justice to King’s original material.

In other news, Brolin was recently linked to the role of Hal Jordan in the Green Lantern series Lanterns for HBO, but he has since passed on the opportunity. Kyle Chandler will instead take on the role, with Aaron Pierre confirmed as John Stewart. Besides The Running Man, Brolin was also recently cast in Rian Johnson’s upcoming Wake Up Dead Man.

Brolin’s involvement in The Running Man adds significant star power to an already highly anticipated film, promising a deep dive into the dark corners of human entertainment and survival instinct. Fans can look forward to a thrilling chase when The Running Man hits theatres on 21 November 2025.

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Parker Finn’s 2022 directorial debut and sleeper horror hit, Smile, introduced audiences to a truly unsettling antagonist: a malevolent entity that forces its victims into gruesome suicides while sporting a chillingly wide grin. This sinister phantom, with its contagious smile and penchant for psychological torment, tapped into a primal fear, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of unease long after the credits rolled. The film’s success, raking in over US$217 million worldwide against a modest US$17 million budget, proved that a simple yet effective horror concept could resonate with audiences, even in an era saturated with grotesque genre offerings.

Unsurprisingly, Smile 2 arrives with the promise of a heftier budget of US$28 million and a grander, more elaborate spectacle, offering Finn the opportunity to expand upon his terrifying creation. One might expect a sequel with increased resources to delve deeper into the mythology hinted at in the original, exploring new facets of the grinning entity and expanding the narrative’s scope but instead of demystifying the monster or venturing into uncharted territory, Finn opts to revisit familiar ground, essentially rehashing the first film’s formula, albeit with a slightly different thematic lens. While the original Smile focused on a psychologist grappling with mental health and trauma, the sequel turns its attention to the pressures of modern celebrity stardom and the unrelenting scrutiny of the public eye.

The sequel unfolds with a direct connection to its predecessor, initiating with a seamless, single-shot sequence that reminds viewers of the unresolved dread from the first film. It quickly transitions to showcase its expanded budget through an unexpected cameo by Scream (1996) alum Drew Barrymore (Charlie’s Angels, 50 First Dates), before introducing us to the glittering yet grim reality of pop star Skye Riley, portrayed with an onstage charisma and offstage vulnerability of an idol grappling with the dark side of fame by Naomi Scott (Power Rangers, Aladdin). This reality is, sadly, one that the sinister entity exploits with cruel irony.

Adding to the mounting tension, Riley is still recovering from a near-fatal car crash and struggling with sobriety, all while on the verge of a high-stakes comeback tour. Her carefully constructed facade begins to crumble as she witnesses a horrifying death of her friend Lewis (Lukas Gage, Euphoria, The White Lotus), triggering a series of disturbing visions that threaten to derail her career and sanity. 

Her struggles are compounded by a host of personal challenges, including a manipulative stage mother played by Rosemarie DeWitt (Rachel Getting Married, Poltergeist), a controlling record executive (Raúl Castillo, Looking), and unresolved guilt over past actions that ruined a close friendship with ex-best friend Gemma (Dylan Gelula, First Girl I Loved). Finn intertwines these personal dramas with Skye’s psychological descent, as she tries to maintain her glamorous facade while grappling with increasingly terrifying hallucinations.

Smile 2 truly shines when it taps into the specific anxieties of a life lived under the harsh spotlight. A standout scene features Riley, mouth smeared with blood-red lipstick, delivering an uncomfortably honest impromptu speech at a charity event after the teleprompter malfunctions. This sequence, among others (including facing a crazed stalker at a meet-and-greet), draws parallels to the struggles of real-life figures like singer Amy Winehouse and singer/songwriter Chappell Roan, whose mental health and personal struggles often become fodder for public consumption. 

Scott, a musician herself, embodies the character’s frazzled nerves and inner turmoil with impressive authenticity, making this her most alluring big-screen performance to date. One can’t help but wonder if Scott is channelling her own experiences navigating the treacherous waters of the music industry, as she delivers a poignant and vulnerable rendition of her song, titled Blood on White Satin, about the curse of fame.

This vulnerability is further amplified by Finn’s sophisticated approach to horror, which masterfully blends subtle unease with shocking body horror. The film’s technical execution has matured since the original, using disorienting angles and atmospheric lighting to enhance the sense of disorientation and fear. Smile composer Cristobal Tapia de Veer returns with yet another eerie score, a blend of industrial noise and distorted sounds that perfectly complements the film’s unsettling visuals, including a particularly memorable sequence with phantom backup dancers contorting into grotesque poses.

While Smile 2 delivers its fair share of jolts and its commentary on celebrity culture is sharp and insightful, the bloated runtime dilutes its impact. Clocking in at over 2 hours compared to its predecessor’s 1 hour 55 minutes runtime, Smile 2 occasionally feels repetitive, labouring its points when a more concise approach would have heightened the tension and emotion. 

This overextension is particularly evident in the film’s overreliance on the villain’s reality-bending abilities. While the initial hallucinations are effective in creating a sense of unease and paranoia, the constant shifting between reality and delusion, punctuated by increasingly graphic violence, creating a distancing effect, preventing the audience from fully connecting with Skye’s terrifying ordeal. Each plot twist, revealing yet another mere figment of Riley’s imagination, starts to feel less like a clever narrative device and more like a frustrating gimmick. 

Ultimately, Smile 2 is emblematic of the classic sequel dilemma – bigger doesn’t always mean better. The sequel may amp everything up, from Scott’s star performance to its critique of celebrity culture, but it loses some of the chilling simplicity that made the original Smile so effective. Nevertheless, Finn’s bold, untempered direction ensures that the film will find its audience, leaving many horror fans smiling – though perhaps not as widely as the first film.

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Disney is setting the stage for a new take on the classic character Prince Charming, with Paddington and Wonka director Paul King at the helm. This announcement, first reported by Deadline, marks a fresh direction for one of Disney’s most recognisable but often background characters.

Known for his successful direction of whimsical and beloved films, King has been confirmed to direct the film, collaborating on the script with Jon Croker and Simon Farnaby. Croker brings experience from the first Paddington movie, while Farnaby worked with King on Wonka and Paddington 2.

The character of Prince Charming has appeared under this title in Disney’s Cinderella and has been a staple in many fairy tales and Disney films, often serving as the hero who rescues the leading lady. The plot remains under wraps, and it’s unclear whether this adaptation will be animated or live-action, though Disney’s recent trend leans towards live-action productions.

While the character has traditionally been portrayed in a heroic light, modern renditions in media like the Once Upon a Time TV series have offered more nuanced, and sometimes villainous (we’re looking at you, Shrek 2…) takes. This new film could potentially explore an origin story or an alternative perspective focusing on Prince Charming’s backstory, providing a fresh take on his role in the Disney universe.

Paul King’s directorial prowess was recently showcased in Wonka, an origin story for Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, which became a box office success by grossing US$634 million worldwide. King’s storytelling style, which combines heartfelt narrative with rich, imaginative visuals, seems well-suited for bringing depth to a character traditionally seen but not deeply explored.

Details about the release date for Prince Charming are still pending, as are announcements about the cast. This new venture promises to redefine Prince Charming for a new generation, potentially turning the spotlight on a character who has played a pivotal yet often static role in many a Disney tale.

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Tom Holland recently revealed insights into the development of Spider-Man 4, expressing his enthusiasm about the current script’s direction. In a discussion on the Rich Roll podcast, Holland, known for his portrayal of Spider-Man and a tendency to share secrets, conveyed his excitement alongside co-star Zendaya after reviewing a draft of the upcoming film.

“We have a creative and we have a pitch and a draft, which is excellent. It needs work, but the writers are doing a great job. I read it three weeks ago and it really lit a fire in me,” Holland commented. The actor shared a glimpse into their reading experience: “Zendaya and I sat down and read it together and we at times were bouncing around the living room like this is a real movie worthy of the fans’ respect.”

During the interview, Holland touched on various topics, including his relationships within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), like his mentorship bond with Robert Downey Jr. He emphasised the importance of delivering a film that lives up to Marvel fans’ expectations.

He also noted the complexities of working within the larger MCU framework. “One of the things is that, with Marvel, your film is a small cog in a large machine. That machine has got to keep running,” he explained. “You have to make sure you can fit into that timeline at the right time to benefit the bigger picture. That’s one of the challenges we’re facing. The time in which we need to get that done is a tall order but definitely achievable with the people we have working on it now.”

Holland also shared his hopes for integrating Miles Morales into the MCU. “If I would be lucky enough to somehow bring Miles Morales into my Spider-Man universe and into the MCU, I’d love to do for a young kid what [Robert] Downey [Jr.] did for me,” he expressed.

While details about Spider-Man 4 are still under wraps, rumours suggest it may be directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, known for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.

In the meantime, Sony Pictures is set to release Venom: The Last Dance on 24 October, marking Tom Hardy’s final appearance in the series. They are also developing Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, a sequel to 2023’s Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Release dates for Spider-Man 4 remain unknown, but the MCU pipeline is full of projects slated for 2025 and beyond.

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Since its reveal at the Xbox Game Showcase in June, the JPRG-inspired fantasy epic Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has attracted much fanfare with a stylistic take on turn-based battles. But its momentum isn’t stopping anytime soon, as a new trailer revealing the game’s voice cast and release window continues to feed into the hype.

Developed by French studio Sandfall Interaction, the forthcoming title features a stacked voice cast that includes Andy Serkis, Charlie Cox, and Ben Starr. The former two are familiar names in the film industry, best known for portraying Gollum in the Lord of the Rings movies and Daredevil in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, respectively. Serkis is introduced as the voice of Renoir, while Cox breathes life into protagonist Gustave.

Starr, a rising talent after his breakout role as Clive Rosfield in Final Fantasy XVI, plays Verso, a mysterious — and presumably villainous — figure with unknown origins. The rest of the cast has no shortage of star power either, with Shala Nyx (Cyberpunk 2077, The Old Guard) voicing the warrior Sciel, Jennifer English (Shadowheart in Baldur’s Gate 3) as Maelle, and Kirsty Rider (The Sandman) as Lune.

Rich Keeble (Good Omens), Devora Wilde (Lae’zel in Baldur’s Gate 3), Tracy Wiles (Baldur’s Gate 3), and Maxence Cazorla (Ineffable) are also part of the roster, though their roles have yet to be announced.

As revealed in the trailer, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will be released for Xbox Series X|S and PC in Spring 2025. It won’t be an easy time for the original IP, however, as established heavyweights like Monster Hunter Wilds, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Avowed are all due within the same window.

Still, its Reactive Turn-based combat system should offer a fresh breath of air, combining turn-based mechanics with real-time aspects such as quick time events and timing-based actions in both offense and defense. The Belle Époque-set game follows Gustave and Lune as they attempt to stop the Paintress, whose god-like powers can kill everyone of a given age she draws in the sky.

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The highly-anticipated return to the Underworld isn’t quite the complete experience yet, but it might as well be. Five months after Hades II launched in early access, Supergiant Games’ beloved roguelike has rolled out its first major content update, packing so much new content that its patch notes on Steam come in at over 3,500 words.

Aptly titled the Olympic Update, the surprise rollout opens up a whole new region, which isn’t all that difficult to guess. Protagonist Melinoë will be heading up to Olympus, the mountain of the gods, with the final Nocturnal Arms in hand — a new pair of jetpack gauntlets called Xinth, the Black Coat. Players can visit multiple new locations in Olympus, alongside fresh additions to several other existing areas.

Athena and Dionysus, who were both in the original Hades, are also set to appear. There are certainly some artistic choices here, especially with the latter wearing nothing but leopard-print underwear, while boons from the Goddess of Wisdom are always welcome (Deflect, anyone?). Two new animal familiars, Raki the Raven and Hecuba the Hound, can be befriended, and Melinoë now has access to two new allies with unique keepsakes.

Prometheus, a Titan known in Greek mythology for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to humans, will debut as the apparent boss of Olympus. Voiced by Ben Starr of Final Fantasy XVI fame, the character is set to bring the surface route “closer to the Underworld route’s level of completion”.

As mentioned, the latest update for Hades II is, well, supergiant, but other notable additions include 2,500 new voice lines in total, new music, “dozens” of new cosmetic items, a new world map that appears when Melinoë moves between regions, and native support for Macs with M1 chips or later. There’s also the option to listen to a 27-minute-long dramatic reading of the patch notes if the usual reading doesn’t cut it.

Beyond the Olympic Update, Supergiant plans to add a “climactic confrontation” after the new region, more boons, and improved enemy variety. The next major update for Hades II is expected to bow in early 2025.

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A soundbar is an easy way to upgrade the audio experience, offering clearer dialogue and a more dynamic soundstage as compared to traditional speakers. The Sonos Arc established itself as a solid pick when it was released in 2022, and its newly announced successor, the Sonos Arc Ultra, is set to raise the bar with several hardware upgrades.

For starters, it features Sound Motion technology, which is touted as “one of the most significant breakthroughs in audio engineering in nearly 100 years.” The transducer technology hails from Mayht, the startup it acquired in 2022, and enables smaller speakers to deliver richer, better sound.

As such, the soundbar can pack more bass power into a relatively slim body that measures 7.5cm x 117.8cm x 11.6cm and weighs 5.9kg. According to Sonos, it’s also 18 percent smaller by volume than its predecessor and boasts 14 drivers in total, including seven tweeters, six mid-woofers, and the built-in Sound Motion woofer — three more than the original Arc.

There are other notable features as well. Apart from Dolby Atmos support and a 9.1.4 spatial audio experience (referring to nine horizontal audio channels, one subwoofer, and four up-firing channels), users can expect “an advanced version of Speech Enhancement” that promises dialogue clarity, Trueplay EQ tuning for both Android and iOS devices, and Bluetooth audio playback, which wasn’t available previously.

Like other Sonos soundbars, the Arc Ultra is compatible with the company’s Ace headphones through any input device plugged into it. The full-sized Sub 4 subwoofer, meanwhile, sports a new matte finish, backward compatibility, increased processing power memory, and new WiFi radios for improved connectivity.

As for current users, an update will reintroduce 90 percent of the new app’s missing features. The redesigned app was first rolled out in May, but a slew of bugs, missing features, unstable system performances, and other problems prompted the team to direct all efforts to improve its infrastructure.

The Sonos Arc Ultra retails for S$1,899, while the Sonos Sub 4 costs S$1,449. Both devices are available in black or white.

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Scholastic has just released the book cover and official synopsis of the eagerly awaited prequel to the Hunger Games series, Sunrise on the Reaping, set to hit shelves on 18 March 2025. This latest entry delves into the tumultuous Second Quarter Quell, a pivotal event in the series’ lore that fans of the films will recall Haymitch Abernathy, played by Woody Harrelson, famously survived.

Suzanne Collins, the mastermind behind the Hunger Games universe, sets Sunrise on the Reaping 24 years before the original trilogy. The prequel’s official synopsis is as follows:

“When you’ve been set up to lose everything you love, what is there left to fight for?

As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.

When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.”

Sunrise on the Reaping promises to add depth to the character of Haymitch and explore the impact of his actions both inside and beyond the arena. This narrative arc aims to enrich the complex world of Panem, providing insights into the origins of the rebellion that defines the later books.

Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, who produced the original Hunger Games films, which have grossed a staggering US$3.3 billion globally, making it one of the highest-grossing film franchises, will return to produce the film adaptations of Sunrise on the Reaping.

The Hunger Games series continues to expand, with Collins’ 2020 prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes having already been turned into a successful film in 2023, starring Rachel Zegler and Tom Blyth, which pulled in US$337.4 million worldwide.

Fans of the series can mark their calendars for 18 March 2025, when Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release. For now, they can pre-order their copy on the Amazon website.

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Hailed as the first true Nintendo 64 (N64) clone console, Analogue’s upcoming release, the Analogue 3D, will feature full compatibility with all original N64 game cartridges, allowing players to revisit their favourite titles from an era long past.

In addition, the console also plays N64 games in an upscaled 4K resolution via HDMI cable, a major selling point for those frustrated with the infamously messy nature of N64 emulation. For those seeking a more traditional experience, original display modes and support for original N64 controllers are offered.

The Analogue 3D is powered by 3DOS, the company’s proprietary operating system built for the console. Serving as an evolution to its predecessor, the AnalogueOS, the new system will offer N64-specific features alongside support for save states and taking screenshots.

Although the Analogue brand is well-known among classic game fans due to their versions of other consoles such as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the Sega Genesis, the Analogue 3D marks the company’s first foray into the N64 generation.

The Analogue 3D will cost US$249.99 and is set to launch in Q1 of 2025, with preorders beginning on 21 October 2024. For its full technical specifications, check out its official webpage.

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IO Interactive, the developers behind the Hitman games, have teased details about Project 007, their elusive upcoming title set in the universe of James Bond, which will reportedly feature Bond’s origin story.

Speaking to IGN, studio head Hakan Abrak shared that Project 007 will be developed and published entirely by the company and that the title’s production is going “amazingly well”.

The game is set to feature an original Bond story, with heavy emphasis on the character’s beginnings. “What’s exciting about that project is that we actually got to do an original story. So it’s not a gamification of a movie. It’s completely beginning and becoming a story, hopefully for a big trilogy out there in the future. And equally important and exciting, it’s a new Bond,” Abrak revealed, “It’s a Bond we built from the ground up for gamers.”

IO Interactive is behind the immensely popular Hitman game series, known for its open-ended world design that encourages multiple approaches to its objectives. With the series now on hiatus, this leaves room for the studio to focus its efforts on developing a James Bond game worthy of the heights of 1997’s GoldenEye 007.

“It’s been almost 15 years since the last game.” added Abrak, “I just hope we’ll do a thing that will define James Bond in gaming for years to come. And that is not only one game, but that we create a universe for gamers to own for many years to come that we can grow with that next to the Bond on the movies.”

Having previously announced the project in 2020, IO Interactive is currently keeping a tight lip when it comes to the finer details of Project 007, with Abrak concluding, “I don’t have an update today, but believe me, it’s itching here as well to be talking about it soon.”

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