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Human masseuses, beware! AI massage robots are here — and they have untiring arms and hands that no human can compete with.

Aescape, a lifestyle robotics company, invited Mashable to check out an AI-assisted massage robot in New York City. "Sign me up!" I said. "Who am I to turn down a free massage?"

Now, when I pictured "AI massage robot," I was thinking I'd be shown some sort of handheld gadget — or something like the viral TikTok neck-and-back massager. Little did I know I'd be laying down on a full-sized massage bed with gigantic, gnarly robot arms.

After allowing Aescape's robot masseuse to work its magic on my back and butt for 30 minutes, I foresaw a future of disruption in which robots become the new lifestyle companions. Here are five reasons why I'm quitting human masseuses:

SEE ALSO: It's like ChatGPT with a body: Watch creepy demo of OpenAI-powered robot 'Figure 01'

1. No more naked massages

Due to scarring from several surgeries early this year, I'm admittedly insecure about stripping down to my birthday suit for massages. I know human masseuses are professional and will still do their job — scars or no scars. However, I can't help but feel as if I'm being silently judged.

Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable

Aescape's massage robot, however, can't judge me because it's a heap of metal with no thoughts nor opinions. In fact, for those who hate getting naked for rub downs, you'll be relieved to know that Aescape lends users a branded grey, two-piece athleisure set to wear for the massage. It's form-fitting, but comfortable and premium.

Aescape's robot masseuse works best when you're clothed; I'd imagine the friction of robo hands on bare skin wouldn't feel very nice. In addition to wearing the set, you'll be asked to wear your hair up, ensuring it doesn't get in the way of the massage process.

2. Adjust pressure to your liking

I placed my face inside the cradle of the massage bed. In front of me was a tablet, which kicked off a few prompts. For example, it asked how "firm" I wanted the massage. Suddenly, I felt two robot "hands" rubbing my upper back, as if two smooth fists were digging into my sore muscles.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

"Whoa!" I said. If I was none the wiser, and you told me that a human was massaging me, I would've believed you. I was being kneeded like a ball of dough. I even felt the robot alternating its arms on my back, with its right hand going down and left hand going up — and vice versa.

The best part is, using the tablet, I could adjust the pressure to my liking. For example, if I felt like the robot was being too vigorous, I could use the slider to reduce the tension. During the session, I must have increased and decreased the slider at least 15 times — simply because certain parts need more attention than others. And truthfully, I would have felt too sheepish to voice my needs to a human masseuse that often. Fortunately, robots have inexhaustible patience — and I took full advantage of that.

As a cherry on top, as I hinted at the outset, unlike human hands, Aescape's robot masseuse doesn't get tired; I can utilize its robot fists to my heart's desire.

3. Pause and play whenever you want

There's also a pause and play button on the tablet. If you need a break, or you're feeling uncomfortable, you can hit pause, which will make the robot arms withdraw and revert back to its resting position.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, once you're ready to jump back in, you can hit play again — and the robot masseuse will get continue where it left off.

There's also an Immersion Mode, which lets you swipe through visual effects, like rain, snow, and ocean waves, to lull you into a hypnotic, restful state. If you want, you can play music, too. I listened to everything from classical tunes to pop hits that you'll find on your favorite Top 40 radio stations.

4. Speed up to the good part

It's worth noting that, on the tablet, I could see a 3D map of my body facing down. Circular cues on that 3D figure told me which regions on my body the robot is currently targeting.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Plus, on the left side of the tablet, there is pre-planned program, an itinerary if you will, of where the robot plans to go throughout the 30-minute massage. As such, if you're getting bored of a specific manuever, and you want to skip to a region that needs more attention, you can do that.

5. AI assistance

Of course, you can't escape most technological advancements today without talking about AI.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

"Core to Aescape's customizability is its integration of AI, enabling the system to continually evolve its understanding of the human body and personalized preferences. We generate over 1.1 million 3D data points to accurately map the body's position on the table, identifying key anatomical points for targeted massage," Aescape told Mashable.

Through this AI-driven method, not only does Aescape's bot personalize the experience for each individual seeking a massage, but it also adapts to their specific preferences over time, offering more personalized options such as a 30-minute deep tissue session or a quick 10-minute recovery session aimed at reducing stress.

Final thoughts

As it stands now, a massage at Aescape's robo-massage table costs $60 for a 30-minute session and $120 for an hour-long session. Not bad, and in my opinion, totally worth it. I'd 100% do it again on a monthly basis.

Aescape's spokesperson Molly O'Connor told me that the AI massage robot is launching in Equinox locations this spring. When it does, the cost will likely change, leaving it up to the provider to set rates.

Do I think robot massages will become a thing? Yes.

In the same way some people gravitate toward apps like Lyft and UberEats because they want to minimize human interactions (e.g., calling up taxis and local pizzerias in the pre-Uber era was always such an awkward experience for many), I believe people want the opportunity to have complete control over their massage experience — without articulating their needs to a human.

It takes guts to attempt an action-packed romantic comedy. For every Romancing The Stone, there's a barrage of forgettable imitators. (See: Argylle. Well, don't see Argylle. It's awful.) 

It's a tricky thing to strike a satisfying balance of thrills and laughs with a love story that gets our hearts (and/or loins) engaged. But David Leitch, the former Brad Pitt stunt double turned director of such gonzo action movies as John Wick, Bullet Train, and Atomic Blonde, doesn't scare easily. And now he's delivered the gonzo gift to cinema that is The Fall Guy. 

Adapted from the 1980s TV series of the same name, this action-comedy centers on one of the unsung heroes of Hollywood: the stuntman (Barbie's Academy Award-nominated Ryan Gosling) who takes all the hits so that the arrogant A-lister (Bullet Train's Aaron Taylor-Johnson) doesn't have to. But don't fret if you aren't familiar with the small-screen inspo. The Fall Guy is making its own fun, thanks to a crackling script from Drew Pearce, and the dazzling chemistry between Gosling and Emily Blunt. 

How does The Fall Guy movie relate to the TV series?  Ryan Gosling is under attack in "The Fall Guy." Credit: Eric Laciste / Universal Pictures

Ryan Gosling plays Colt Seavers, a stuntman character originated by Lee Majors in the show created by Glen A. Larson. However, where Majors' hero was moonlighting as a bounty hunter when he wasn't on set, Gosling's version is more a hapless nobody who stumbles into a criminal conspiracy. And it's love that keeps him there. 

There's trouble on the set of Metalstorm, a sci-fi epic/romance that stars the obnoxious Tom Ryder (Johnson) as a daring space cowboy. But when the mercurial movie star goes MIA, his old stunt double is called back into action. Not only is Colt tasked with doing intense stunts to keep the movie's production schedule on track, but the high-strung producer Gail Meyer (Ted Lasso's Hannah Waddingham) asks him to unearth the missing actor. 

It's not just the movie Colt is trying to save. You see, this is the directorial debut of his former flame, Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt). With his heart on his sleeve, this stuntman throws himself into the fray to make her dreams come true, all in hopes of scoring a second chance at romance. 

Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt are perfectly paired in The Fall Guy.  Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt star in "The Fall Guy." Credit: Eric Laciste / Universal Pictures

Crucial to a good action/rom-com is a dynamic where conflict and chemistry collide. You need the stars to click on screen so the audience is invested in their getting together. But they need to be believably pugnacious with each other so the why of not being together is clear. 

Smartly, Blunt and Gosling gave the world a preview of their chemistry at the 96th Annual Academy Awards, where they playfully bickered over the Barbenheimer rivalry. In The Fall Guy, the characters are less openly hostile. Jody favors passive-aggressively dressing down Colt over a megaphone on set, while he pushes back with sheepish flirtations. (Look, he knows what he did.) While this sounds less than romantic, it is nonetheless enchanting. 

There is some suspension of disbelief required, of course, but not in the movie's premise — it's that Gosling is supposed to look like he's not a movie star, while he still basically looks like Ken, albeit with some scruffy facial hair. However, as he did playing Ken or the battered detective in The Nice Guys, Gosling has a looseness to the physicality in his comedy that plays divinely. The stunts here are done by a top-notch stunt team, which the movie's promotional tour is keen to celebrate. But Gosling brings to banter scenes and other comedic moments an ego-free display of mugging, an earnest thumbs-up gesture, and even crying to Taylor Swift's "All Too Well" that establishes Colt as a goofball as much as a tough guy. When Blunt coolly instructs him to drive her to her car — parked just feet away from where they idle — you can see the core sense of humor they have in common. 

After a couple of Quiet Place movies and the sternness of Oppenheimer, it's a delight to see Blunt back in comedy. She's got terrific comedic timing that pairs perfectly with her well-placed hard stare. Her Jody isn't made to be an ambitious bitch in the way of broad '80s movie stereotypes, but she has her moments of playing rough. Yet Jody is chiefly defined by trying to maintain her cool under incredibly stressful circumstances, which makes little moments where she breaks down burst with humor — be it a karaoke jam to Phil Collins or literally grasping at a straw. 

Together, Gosling and Blunt create a could-be couple that's alluring not only for their looks but also their awkwardness. Dumb jokes and fumbling flirtations shrewdly undercut what could be a glossy, unnatural rom-com to make a movie that's endearing and entertaining. 

The Fall Guy is a winsome showbiz comedy.  Ryan Gosling, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and several stuntmen from "The Fall Guy." Credit: Eric Laciste / Universal Pictures

True to his reputation, Leitch provides plenty of outrageous action scenes once again. Some are for the movie-within-the-movie, including a car roll that broke a Guinness World Record. Some are part of Colt's off-set misadventures, which include swordplay, fire fights, daring escapes, and a speedboat chase. 

As the discourse around including stunts in the Oscars rages on, The Fall Guy will definitely be a major talking point for advocates of the category addition. However, the stunt community representation within the film feels a bit thin, being just Colt and his stunt coordinator, played by a jovial Winston Duke. They're a terrifically funny duo, but as the third act leans hard on the concept of community, I wished the broader stunt team were more present to make a big leap land more powerfully.

Winston Duke kicks ass in "The Fall Guy." Credit: Eric Laciste / Universal Pictures

The Fall Guy is about more than stunts, folding in the bonds that form across departments on set, including a horny VFX supervisor (Zara Michales), a too-Method ingenue (Teresa Palmer), and a perturbed personal assistant (Everything Everywhere All at Once's Stephanie Hsu). As a whole, this movie delights in giving a peek behind the scenes to reveal the messy human conflicts (which also make for great on-screen drama), as well as the absurdity inherent in playing pretend for a living. What is never mocked is the dream of making movies. 

Whether she's furious at Colt or frustrated by outrageous obstacles, Jody is driven by making the movie that she's dreamed of her whole life. Colt isn't just dedicated to her but also to her vision, as is much of the supporting cast of characters. And in this, there's an enveloping exhilaration, as if we the viewer are part of this collaboration too. This energetic sense of inclusion welcomes us into the twists, fails, and breakthroughs the characters face in an electrifying way. All of that barrels into a finale that is not just exciting but enthralling. 

The Fall Guy is action/romantic-comedy done right, a rare gem in the crown of this challenging subgenre. 

The Fall Guy was reviewed out of SXSW 2024. The film opens in theaters May 3. 

How to watch 'The Zone of Interest' at a glance: BEST MAX DEAL FOR MOST PEOPLE Max (With Ads) annual subscription $69.99/year through April 9 (save 42%) Get Deal BEST MAX DEAL WITH NO ADS Max (No Ads) annual subscription $104.99/year through April 9 (save 45%) Get Deal BEST FOR CRICKET CUSTOMERS Max (With Ads) Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month unlimited plan (save $9.99/month) Get Deal BEST NON-STREAMING OPTION Rent or purchase 'The Zone of Interest' $5.99 or $19.99 at Prime Video Get Deal

The Max streaming platform is gaining another Oscar winner next month. One of our favorite films of the year, The Zone of Interest finally has an official streaming date so you can watch it at home.

Nominated for five Oscars (including Best Picture), the A24 Holocaust-based film took home two statuettes on the big night: Best Sound and Best International Feature Film. If you've been curious about the historical drama and want to watch it for yourself, here's what you need to know.

What is The Zone of Interest about?

Loosely based on Martin Amis's 2014 novel of the same name, The Zone of Interest centers around Commandant Rudolf Höss (Christian Friedel) and his wife Hedwig (Sandra Hüller), who live in a charming domestic oasis with their children. Meanwhile, just next door, the atrocities of Auschwitz are unfolding. The resulting film is a "a chilling portrait of complicity among atrocity," as Mashable's Shannon Connellan wrote in her review. "Essentially, Glazer's A24 film makes you sit at the table for family dinner, lounge beside the backyard pool, and celebrate birthdays, right next to the site that would become the symbol of Nazi genocide."

Read our full review of The Zone of Interest.

Here's a glimpse at Jonathan Glazer's "magnificent, yet disquieting" film in the official trailer:

When is The Zone of Interest streaming?

The Zone of Interest premiered back in May 2023 at the Cannes Film Festival, where it took home the Grand Prix and FIPRESCI Prize. Months later, it debuted in theaters in the U.S. on Dec. 15. Now, nearly a year after its initial premiere, it's coming to streaming. The film debuts on Max on April 5, 2024. Of course, it's also available to rent or purchase at digital retailers (more on that below).

Is there a Max free trial?

There's currently no active Max free trial on Max directly or through third-parties like Prime Video or Hulu. However, the Prime Video Max add-on had an active seven-day free trial just days before writing this. Keep an eye out, as the free trials tend to pop up sporadically — and disappear just as quickly.

The best Max streaming dealsBest limited-time deal: Save over 40% on an annual plan Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max annual subscriptions Save over 40% on Max With Ads, Max Ad-Free, and Max Ultimate Watch Now

Through April 9, you can save over 40% on Max's annual plans. The Max with ads yearly subscription is usually $99.99, but with this limited-time deal, you'll only pay $69.99 (or $5.83/month). Max Ad-Free is down to $104.99 from $149.99, saving you 45% and knocking the price down $8.75 per month. The highest tier, Max Ultimate, is just $139.99 (reg. $199.99) during the promotional period. That's 42% in savings and breaks down to just $11.67 per month.

Best Max deal for Cricket customers: Free Max with ads for customers on the $60/month unlimited plan Opens in a new window Credit: Cricket / Max Max With Ads Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month plan Watch Now

If you're a Cricket Wireless customer on the $60 per month unlimited plan, congrats. You get Max With Ads for free as long as your account remains in good standing. Head over to the Max app or navigate to Max on a browser, then choose Cricket as your provider. Your Cricket credentials will unlock full access to Max With Ads, which is typically a $99.99 per year value. If you're a Cricket customer, but on a different plan, you can upgrade or switch over to secure the deal. Check out the terms and conditions on Cricket's website to learn more.

What are the different Max subscription tiers?

Formerly HBO Max, the Max streaming service offers three different subscription tiers: With Ads, Ad-Free, and Ultimate Ad-Free. The most affordable option is Max With Ads, which will run you $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year (unless you take advantage of the limited-time deal above). The Ad-Free tier eliminates ads during your viewing experience and allows you 30 downloads on the go for $15.99 per month or $149.99 per year. And finally, the Ultimate Ad-Free tier offers an ad-less viewing experience, as well as 4K Ultra HD video quality, Dolby Atmos immersive audio, and 100 downloads to watch on the go for $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year.

Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max With Ads $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year Watch Now Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Ad-Free $15.99 per month or $149.99 per year Watch Now Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Ultimate Ad-Free $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year Watch Now Other ways to watch The Zone of Interest

Thanks to video-on-demand services like Prime Video or Apple TV+, you can also rent or purchase the digital version of The Zone of Interest and avoid having to sign up for yet another streaming service. Renting is the cheapest option, but just note that you'll only get 30 days of access and just 48 hours to finish watching once you begin. If you don't like limitations and would rather watch The Zone of Interest on your own timeline, we recommend purchasing it for your digital library instead.

You can rent or purchase The Zone of Interest on demand at the following digital retailers:

• Prime Video — $5.99 to rent, $19.99 to purchase

• Apple TV — $5.99 to rent, $19.99 to purchase

• Fandango at Home — $5.99 to rent, $19.99 to purchase

• YouTube — $4.99 to rent, $19.99 to purchase

• Google Play — $4.99 to rent, $19.99 to purchase

TL;DR: Through March 17 only, this sale gets you the Nix Mini 2 Color-Matching Sensor for just $59.97 (reg. $99).

The world is filled with color, which means you can find inspiration virtually anywhere. Whether you're a pro or an amateur designer, contractor, graphic artist, or simply someone who loves to redecorate their spaces, a color-matching tool could be incredibly useful. This Nix Mini 2 Color-Matching Sensor is on sale for just $59.97 through March 17 and is worth a look if color is part of your world.

Gone are the days of endless searching for the perfect paint color, fabric shade, or matching accessory. The Nix Mini 2 was made to effortlessly scan any surface or object and instantly identify its exact color. The Nix matches to 100,000 brand-name paint colors, as well as sRGB HEX, CMYK, and LAB colors.

And because it's a mini device, you can easily store it in your bag or pocket to have on hand when inspiration strikes. That means if you are out to dinner and see a napkin the exact shade of green you'd like for your bedroom walls, you can take out your Nix Mini and get a read on it almost instantly.

Your Nix works with the Nix Paints and Nix Digital Android and iOS apps to which you get lifetime access. Through the app, you can save, organize, and share your favorite colors.

Experience near-effortless color matching with this helpful tool.

Get the Nix Mini Color-Matching Sensor for just $59.97 (reg. $99) until March 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT during this 48-hour flash sale.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nix Sensor Nix Mini 2 Color-Matching Sensor $59.97 at the Mashable Shop
$99.00 Save $39.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Through March 17, streamline your projects with Microsoft Project Professional 2021 for Windows—on sale for $29.99 (reg. $249).

Project managers and team leaders have a lot of details to manage, regardless of their overall field. That's why, way back in the '80s, Microsoft had the ingenuity to create software to help them manage it all. And for a limited time, the 2021 version of Microsoft Project is on sale for just $29.99 (reg. $249).

After all these years, MS Project still has well over half of the market in project management software, according to Noble Desktop. If you take a look at all the things Project can help professionals with, it's not hard to see why.

The easy-to-use Project allows you to stay on schedule. Its pre-built templates help you get started quickly and manage everything right through the program.

If you're working with complex data, you can visualize your project data and insights with reporting and dashboard tools. Generate reports, charts, and graphs to track key metrics, identify trends, and make informed decisions to drive success.

You'll also be able to run what-if scenarios, submit timesheets, and easily manage your project resources. And you get access to this for life, on one device, with updates included.

Get in on this chance to streamline your projects, boost your productivity, and achieve your project management goals with this timeless software.

Pick up this lifetime license to Microsoft Project Professional 2021 for Windows while it's on sale for $29.99 (reg. $249) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mocrosoft Microsoft Project Professional 2021 for Windows $29.99 at the Mashable Shop
$249.99 Save $220.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: Through March 17, save some money and pick up a grade-A refurbished Apple MacBook Air 13.3" for just $339.97 (reg. $599).

If you're in the market for a new laptop and love the Apple brand, it can be disheartening to see the prices of brand-new ones. This is when the world of refurbished electronics can help. Many times, you don't actually need the latest tech to do what you need to do. A refurbished laptop offers a cleaned, inspected, well-running machine at a much lower price.

You'll get a nice blend of performance, portability, and affordability with this refurbished Apple MacBook Air 13.3". And through March 17, it's on sale for just $339.97 (reg. $599).

This Air is only from the year 2017, so it still has the modern amenities you expect from a modern device. This means WiFi, Bluetooth, and a 1.8 GHz Intel Core i5 processor for fast performance, like when you're trying to multitask at work or stream your favorites after work.

It also has a 128GB SSD for file, app, photo, and video storage within reach. Plus, the Intel HD Graphics 6000 can easily support all of your necessary daily activities.

Because this MacBook Air has a grade-A refurbished rating, you should get it in near-mint condition with minimal, if any, light cosmetic blemishes. And the bonus is that buying refurbished electronics is better for the earth because it helps minimize e-waste in landfills (according to the EPA).

Don't miss out on this limited-time deal that can save you 43% on a new laptop that can elevate your digital game.

Get the grade-A refurbished Apple MacBook Air 13.3" for just $339.97 (reg. $599) until March 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air 13.3" (2017) 1.8GHz i5 Core 8GB RAM 128GB - Silver (Refurbished) $339.97 at the Mashable Shop
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There's more to the twisted romance of Love Lies Bleeding than sapphic sex and violence. There's also big hair and bad teeth. 

Set in a rundown New Mexican town in the 1980s, this critically heralded thriller uses production design to give a sense of the grimy and corrupt community that surrounds lovers Lou (Kristen Stewart) and Jackie (Katy O'Brian). But director Rose Glass was keen to make these characters stand out with hair that wasn't just true to the period, but true to their flawed and fascinating characters. 

Following a video interview with Glass and her stars, Mashable spoke with the director individually to dig deeper into the details of Love Lies Bleeding. There's an array of mullets in the film, which just makes sense as the hairstyle had a chokehold on the era. However, each one was meticulously crafted for the character who wore it. 

Ed Harris brought his own skullet to set.  Ed Harris wearing a skullet. Credit: A24

Once Harris joined the production as Lou Sr., the grim kingpin father of Stewart's character, Glass told the long-respected actor she'd like him to look "different" than he ever had before. He proposed adding a ponytail to the base of his signature balding scalp, but before that, a hairstylist friend installed long, wispy, gray extensions on him. Glass was delighted by the look.

"It's a 'skullet,' apparently," she told Mashable of the distinctive hairdo, "Which, I didn't know that word until reading press about this. So I'm learning every day."

On a more serious note, Glass explained that while Harris got the extensions on his own, the ponytail never came to be. She and Love Lies Bleeding hair department head Megan Daum made "the executive decision to do absolutely nothing with [the extensions] — as it looked incredible already."

Yet there was a curious bit of happenstance in this coiffure collaboration. In the film's press notes, Glass recalled what happened when she showed Kristen Stewart an image of Harris wearing his skullet.

"She immediately got out her phone and showed me a picture of her dad," the director explained. "Turns out, he's got the same hair. She asked me, 'Did you find a picture of my dad and send it to Ed?' But no, it was Ed who landed on this very specific hairstyle, which seemed meant to be."

Kristen Stewart and Dave Franco get mullet makeovers.  Kristen Stewart and Katy O'Brian put their heads together. Credit: A24

As a surly lesbian who works at the town's grungy gym, Stewart sports fashion that's explicitly queer, including oversized T-shirts with the sleeves cut off, the armholes low enough to give a hint of side-boob, and the femme mullet, which saw a resurgence on TikTok during the pandemic. While it's a cliche online that LGBTQ people chop off their own hair (sometimes because salons can be unwelcoming to haircuts that challenge a gender binary), Stewart's choppy yet fabulous mullet was professionally done. 

Glass explained, "Kristen's hair cut was done by Adir (Abergel), her pal/hair stylist. So, as soon as she got to Albuquerque [for the shoot], [Abergel] basically came over and hacked the hair off." 

Dave Franco as an '80s dad. Credit: A24

Also mulleted for the movie was Dave Franco, who plays Lou Sr.'s son-in-law and sidekick, J.J. Franco usually sports short, sharp styles; here, he absolutely nails the look of an '80s dad. It's not just about the mullet, but also the matching push-broom mustache. Glass said Franco noted people "treated him differently" when he wore this make-under, but she felt the look "really suits him." 

More importantly, both Lou and J.J.'s mullets show their connection to the intimidating Lou Sr. Even though they are estranged, his daughter can't escape their similarities. "You're trying to tell a story," Glass explained, noting, "[J.J.] has got, like, a little baby mullet. He works for Lou Sr., who he's kind of trying to impress and emulate. These are all kinds of slightly small town characters, who see their hair as their self-expression."

Katy O'Brian rocks a radiant perm inspired by an icon.  Katy O'Brian flexes with a perm. Credit: A24

In my review of Love Lies Bleeding, I pointed out how O'Brian's costuming as a bodybuilder who has a glorious girly side instantly sets her apart from the residents of this dusty town. Her hair emphasizes their differences. While most of the locals she deals with have variants on greasy mullets, she boasts a glistening perm, which caused some worries for Glass as a director. 

"The '80s, to be honest, was a decade I was a bit nervous of setting something in," she admitted. "I'm not obsessed with '80s fashion and music and stuff. It's sort of a decade that's kind of been done to death [in movies], if anything. So in a way it was like, we can't just make it too cliched '80s. But then you look at actual photos of people from that decade in that place, and it's like, the hair was insane. So, you know, we had no choice but to take some big swings." 

For Jackie, that meant equipping the short-haired O'Brian with a wig inspired by an icon. "Jackie's hair is inspired by this bodybuilder called Lisa Lyon," Rose revealed. Lyon, who died in 2023 at the age of 70, was a pioneer of the sport, as well as a muse for photographers like Robert Mapplethorpe, Helmut Newton, and Joel-Peter Witkin. In Lyon's heyday, she flexed her muscles while wearing a bouncy, lush crown of curls.

"She had this amazing hair, which Megan did as an incredible wig for Katy," Rose continued, noting that in itself was a risk she was unaware of.

"I didn't realize until we were trying to fit [Katy for the wig]," Glass said, "Suddenly, everyone goes, 'Yeah, it's really hard to make wigs convincing. And it ruins the film if they're bad.'" Critics and fans do tend to note when a wig breaks our suspension of disbelief, but as Glass noted, "Megan did an amazing job." O'Brian's hair as Jackie not only looks real, it looks regal, making her a real queen of the gym. 

Anna Baryshnikov's real teeth were too good, and it was a problem. 

Before Jackie strides into Crater Gym, it's Daisy (Baryshnikov) who's begging Lou to join her for a night out at Winkie's, trying to beguile by flipping her long, blonde hair and flashing her eager but rotting smile. But those brown teeth almost didn't make the final cut. 

"She was written as having bad teeth," Glass said of Daisy. "On set, we painted all this brown stuff on [Baryshnikov's] teeth, but obviously your mouth's wet. As soon as she starts talking, it all washed off." This proved a problem in post-production. Glass shared, "I was like, 'Ah, she looks too healthy and pretty and wholesome. We've got to give her [back] the bad teeth.'"

Visual effects could (and eventually were) employed to take Daisy's teeth back to their intended state frame by frame, but Glass had to argue for it, as it wasn't planned for in the film's budget. "We had to pay extra money for the effects to give her these horrible, rotten teeth," Rose said, "Which took quite a lot of persuading, but I'm glad I convinced them." 

Sometimes a bit of decay can make all the difference. 

Love Lies Bleeding is now in theaters. 

TL;DR: As of March 16, get the CARSULE Pop-Up Cabin for Your Car for $299.97 (reg. $379) — you'll save 18%.

While some people consider themselves outdoorsy, others either do not or are somewhere in between. And with the summer fast approaching, it can't hurt to start getting yourself equipped for all of your adventures with an essential for those interested in camping on any level. It doesn't hurt that the Carsule Pop-Up Cabin is on sale for just $299.97 (reg. $379) through March 17.

Even if you are among the outdoorsy crowd, having a respite from the sun, wind, and bugs is a universal need. The Carsule was made to be the go-to living structure while camping, road-tripping, tailgating, and more. The setup is super easy, with a pop-up assembly and minimal strapping needed.

Use it as a common area, work room, dining space, and more to extend your outdoor living space. The waterproof materials (including flooring), thick felt carpeting, integrated mosquito netting, and anchor straps make it a comfy space to get a break from the outdoors, no matter what you use it for.

The Carsule was fully funded on Kickstarter. Its unique design makes it usable with nearly any vehicle with an upward-swinging tailgate. The 6.5-foot ceiling gives you and your crew plenty of space to stretch out.

Give yourself the gift of extra living space and experience outdoor living more conveniently and comfortably. 

Get the Capsule Pop-Up Cabin for your car for just $299.97 (reg. $379) when you order through March 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mogics CARSULE Pop-Up Cabin for Your Car $299.91 at the Mashable Shop
$379.00 Save $79.09 Get Deal

TL;DR: As of March 16, get this 9-inch Wireless Car Display for $119.99 — you'll save 33%.

Is accessing your apps, music, and messages challenging while driving? If you happen to have an older car or a vehicle without a wireless hub, there are options to make access easy. This 9-inch Wireless Car Display is made to be an easy install, and it's on sale for $119.99 (reg. $179) for a limited time.

You don't need to go car shopping just yet. Immerse yourself in clear visuals with the 1024x600 FHD 9" display, providing ample screen real estate for viewing maps, multimedia, and more. Whether navigating through busy city streets or enjoying your favorite music and podcasts, the larger-than-a-phone display offers easy visibility at a glance. It's also a touchscreen, making it simpler and quicker to use on the road.

Enjoy seamless integration with your smartphone's OS, whether you're an Apple or Android user. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, you can easily access your favorite apps, make calls, send messages, and navigate using familiar interfaces. It also has phone mirroring capabilities.

You'll be able to use Bluetooth to transmit audio to your car stereo speakers for playback. There's also the option to use FM wireless transmission audio and AUX output audio.

Don't miss out on a modern driving experience with your digital world safely at your fingertips.

Don't miss out on the 9-inch Wireless Car Display featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility while it's on sale for $119.99 (reg. $179) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart 9" Wireless Car Display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Compatibility & Phone Mirroring $119.99 at the Mashable Shop
$179.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

The best deals for watching 'Mean Girls' (2024) online: Best Paramount+ deal Paramount+ Essential annual subscription Free 7-day trial, then $59.99 per year (save 17%) Get Deal Best MGM+ deal MGM+ annual subscription Free 7-day trial, then $58.99/year (save 30%) Get Deal Best third-party streaming deal Free Paramount+ with Walmart+ membership free 30-day trial, then $98/year Get Deal Best ad-free Paramount+ deal Paramount+ with Showtime annual subscription Free 7-day trial, then $119.99/year (save 17%) Get Deal Best streaming deal for students Paramount+ for students $4.50/month (save 25%) Get Deal Best non-streaming option Buy 'Mean Girls' on Prime Video $19.99 Get Deal

It's been — gulp —20 years since Mean Girls, a movie masterpiece, made its theatrical debut. Now the plastics are back for a new generation to enjoy. And this time around, they sing!

The new Mean Girls hit theaters back in January and is officially available to watch at home less than two months later. Coincidentally (or not), the film's streaming debut is only a month before the official 20-year anniversary of the original. Here's everything you need to know about how to watch the Mean Girls musical adaptation, which stars Renée Rapp, Angourie Rice, Auli'i Cravalho, Jaquel Spivey, Bebe Wood, and Avantika, at home.

Is the new Mean Girls a remake?

Not exactly. The new film is more of an adaptation of the 2018 Broadway musical than a direct remake of the 2004 film. Both the 2004 and 2024 films are from comedian Tina Fey and follow the same plot. However, the new adaptation gets a modern-day makeover, bringing social media and the Gen Z experience into the mix. Of course, there's also the fact that it's a musical — in case you missed those beyond-subtle hints in the promotional materials.

With a 70% critics score and a 62% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, the new musical adaptation falls just shy of the original's reception (which currently sits at 84% and 66%, respectively). That's not to say the film isn't worth watching, though — it still surpassed $100 million at the global box office and even produced the new crossover hit "Not My Fault" featuring Rapp and Megan Thee Stallion.

Read our full review of Mean Girls.

Is Mean Girls streaming?

Paramount theatrical releases typically head straight to Paramount+ after they run in cinemas, and Mean Girls is no different. The musical film quietly started streaming on Paramount+ on March 5, 2024. Conveniently, the original Mean Girls is also streaming on Paramount+, so you can watch and compare the films with a single subscription. The film is also streaming on the lesser-known MGM+ service for those looking for an alternative way to stream.

Is there a Paramount+ free trial?

Paramount+ offers new users a seven-day free trial of either their Essential tier or their with Showtime tier. You'll have to enter your credit card information in order to sign up for the free trial, which means you'll be charged as soon as it ends. If you want to avoid charges, be sure to cancel before the trial is over.

The best Paramount+ streaming deals

If you want to stream Mean Girls, you'll need a Paramount+ subscription. There are a few different subscription options to choose from, including monthly or annual, ad-supported or ad-free, student, and third-party deals. We've broken down all the details below to help you choose the best option.

Most affordable: Get a Paramount+ Essential monthly subscription for just $5.99 Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Essential Free 7-day trial, then $5.99/month Get Deal

If you're looking to spend the least amount of money possible to watch Mean Girls, you can sign up for Paramount+ Essential for only $5.99 per month. If you're new to the streamer, you'll also get a seven-day free trial (as mentioned above). After you watch, just be sure to cancel your subscription if you want to avoid charges. You'll have to endure some ads during the movie, but just think of them as built-in snack and bathroom breaks.

Best long-term deal: Save 17% on a Paramount+ Essential annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Essential annual subscription $59.99/year (save 17%) Watch Now

You can save 17% if you opt for an annual plan rather than a monthly plan. Sure, you'll have to pay more up front, but it pays off in the long run. An annual Paramount+ Essential plan will run you $59.99 per year, which breaks down to only $5 per month as opposed to $5.99 per month. For those looking to watch more than just Mean Girls, this is your best bet.

Best deal for no ads: Save 17% on a Paramount+ with Showtime annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ with Showtime Paramount+ with Showtime Free 7-day trial, then $11.99/month or $119.99/year Watch Now

If ads are a deal breaker for you, you'll have to sign up for Paramount+ with Showtime — its ad-free tier. The Paramount+ with Showtime tier will cost you either $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year, which breaks down to only $10 per month. Beyond the regular Paramount+ catalog, this tier also unlocks access to Showtime originals and movies (like Yellowjackets and The Curse), live TV with CBS, and college football. So, although you'll have to pay more for the ad-less experience, you'll also get a whole lot more content to make up for the price difference.

Best deal for students: Save 25% on Paramount+ Essential Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Essential for students $4.50/month (save 25%) Watch Now

Students who have a verifiable college student status via SheerID can score a Paramount+ Essential monthly subscription for just $4.50 per month. That's 25% off the usual monthly cost. Once you've been verified, your student discount is valid for four years, even if you graduate prior to the four-year period. After four years, you'll be charged the standard rate for an Essential monthly subscription.

Best third-party deal: Get Paramount+ for free with a Walmart+ membership Opens in a new window Credit: Walmart / Paramount Walmart+ membership Free 30-day trial, then $98/year Watch Now

While it may not be the simplest way to watch Mean Girls, a Walmart+ membership gives you free access to Paramount+ and plenty of other sweet benefits. Better yet, it offers a free 30-day trial, so you can enjoy an entire month of streaming without paying a cent. Just be sure to cancel before your trial ends if you want to avoid charges. If you want to keep your Walmart+ membership going, it'll cost you either $12.95 per month or $98 per year ($8.17/month).

Is there an MGM+ free trial?

MGM+ offers a seven-day free trial for newcomers as well. So, if you don't qualify for the Paramount+ free trial, then try the MGM+ trial instead. It may be your best bet to catch the new Mean Girls for free.

The best MGM+ streaming dealsMost affordable deal: Get an MGM+ monthly subscription for $6.99 per month Opens in a new window Credit: MGM+ MGM+ monthly subscription Free 7-day trial, then $6.99/month Watch Now

After your seven-day free trial, the most affordable option would be to simply subscribe to MGM+ for a month and cancel. It'll cost you $6.99 for the month and allow you to watch Mean Girls and plenty of other films and TV shows. Just be sure to cancel before the month is up to avoid further charges beyond that first month.

Best long-term deal: Save 30% on an MGM+ annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: MGM+ MGM+ annual subscription $58.99/year Watch Now

You can save 30% on an MGM+ annual subscription, which means you'll pay $58.99 up front for the year instead of $83.88. If you're a movie buff, this is a pretty awesome way to access new content each month without paying an arm and a leg. The yearly fee breaks down to less than five bucks per month, which makes it the cheapest streaming service on the market. Other than Mean Girls, MGM+ is currently home to American Fiction, TMNT Mutant Mayhem, Bottoms, Top Gun: Maverick, and more.

Other ways to watch Mean Girls

Want to watch Mean Girls but don't feel like signing up for another streaming service (there are just too many of them)? The good news is you can purchase the film on demand from digital retailers such as Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home. The bad news is that it's a bit pricey. The film will also be available to rent come March 19, which allows you 30 days to watch it and just 48 hours to finish it after you start.

Here are the quick links to snag the film on digital:

• Prime Video — buy it for $19.99

• Apple TV+ — buy it for $19.99

• Fandango at Home — buy it for $19.99

Almost anything goes nowadays, but somehow, dating apps still get a bad rap as a last resort for the desperate. For introverts, though? Dating apps offer a lifeline — a convenient and low-pressure way to meet new people without the overwhelming social interactions that can come with traditional dating.

Can you imagine approaching a stranger at a bar, small-talking your way through awkward silence, or entering a social situation of literally any kind? Yeah, hard pass.

Online dating gives us introverts the chance to find love and companionship without ever having to leave our couch (bless). Sure, there will come a time when we'll need to get up and brave the outside world, but for now, can we celebrate that we can find potential partners while binge-watching Netflix? Who needs small talk when you have shared interests, witty messages, and algorithms?

SEE ALSO: Hinge wants to help you stay off your damn phone on a date Do dating sites for introverts even exist?

If making small talk or spending time in crowded social settings is your idea of hell, there are dating sites out there designed to help you find a potential partner sans the overwhelming social anxiety.

That said, not all dating apps are equally introvert-friendly. Tinder, for example, is a go-to for casual hookups and one-night stands, which probably isn't the best option for someone with shy tendencies and a preference for deeper connections. If dating apps were places, Tinder would be the crowded bar full of bros.

SEE ALSO: How to delete your Tinder account

The good news is that Tinder isn't the be-all and end-all when it comes to online dating. Other dating platforms, like eharmony, Match, and Hinge put an emphasis on compatibility and meaningful connections, so you can meet fellow introverts who are looking for something more substantial.

What are the best dating sites for introverts?

To help you find your person (the one who will understand and appreciate you for who you truly are), we've rounded up 13 of the best dating sites for introverts just like you. There are a few picks in here for hooking up, too, because why not? Just because you're introverted doesn't mean you can't have a little fun.

TL;DR: Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows is on sale for £35.17, saving you 90% on list price.

For those in the development game, a supportive place to streamline your workflow can always be of use. Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows is an integrated development environment packed with features and tools to help you develop websites, web apps, mobile apps, and more.

Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, Visual Studio offers a place for developers to write code and collaborate. This software was made to do things like use .NET and MAUI to create cross-platform apps.

It offers robust code editing features and productivity tools to help you easily write, debug, and refactor code. From IntelliSense for intelligent code completion to code navigation and refactoring capabilities, Visual Studio allows for a seamless coding experience that can enhance your productivity and efficiency.

Save time and resources by getting ahead of the game with advanced debugging and testing tools to help you identify and fix issues in your code quickly. With features like live code debugging, performance profiling, and unit testing, you can ensure the reliability of your applications before deployment.

CodeLens gives you insight into your code, which allows you to see super important info like changes and tests. This tool will enable you to make informed decisions about your code as you move forward.

You also get the ability to collaborate in real-time, so you can speed up your team's fixes, share codes, and track progress while keeping everyone on the same page.

With extensions and add-ons available from the Visual Studio Marketplace, you can enhance your development environment with additional features, tools, and integrations that align with your objectives.

Get Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows while it's on sale for £35.17.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows £35.17 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for March 16's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Something poisonous.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no letters that appear twice.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter T.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. What's the answer to Wordle today?

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to Wordle #1001 is...

TOXIN.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for March 16's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Diminish

• Green: Sections on a plane

• Blue: Process for a job interview

• Purple: Types of TV episodes

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Get Smaller

• Green: Airline Classes

• Blue: Examine, As An Applicant

• Purple: Notable TV Episodes

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to Connections #279 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Get Smaller: CONTRACT, LESSEN, REDUCE, SHRINK

• Airline Classes: BUSINESS, COACH, FIRST, PREMIUM

• Examine, As An Applicant: CHECK, REVIEW, SCREEN, VET

• Notable TV Episodes: FINALE, PILOT, PREMIERE,SPECIAL

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

Do you remember Ajit Pai? The former FCC Chairman handpicked by then-president Donald Trump? You know, the one who was infamous for drinking out of a giant Reese's coffee mug and…oh yeah, killing net neutrality?

In 2021, when he was on the way out of the agency, Pai declared that a paltry 25 megabits per second (mbps) minimum speed requirement for broadband in the U.S. was more than enough for Americans.

Now, just 3 years, one new U.S. President, and a new Chairman of the FCC later…the FCC is finally redefining what speeds classify as "broadband."

SEE ALSO: The FCC has decided: Those realistic AI robocalls are illegal.

According to the FCC in a statement released on Thursday, the broadband speed benchmark has now quadrupled from 25mbps to 100mbps. As The Verge pointed out, that new benchmark is what current FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel wanted to set as the standard nine years ago in 2015.

"This fix is overdue," Rosenworcel said in a statement. "It aligns us with pandemic legislation like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the work of our colleagues at other agencies. It also helps us better identify the extent to which low-income neighborhoods and rural communities are underserved."

That's a major part as to why it's so important that the FCC updated what's defined as broadband. The FCC report helps determine how the U.S. is doing when it comes to internet access. If parts of the country aren't adequately hitting these FCC benchmarks, they can potentially get funding from the government to help better connect the people living in those areas. As the FCC notes, as of 2024, 24 million Americans are without "fixed terrestrial broadband service." This includes 28 percent of rural America.

And President Joe Biden's FCC Commissioner isn't stopping at 100mbps either.

"Because doing big things is in our DNA, we also adopt a long-term goal of 1 Gigabit down and 500 Megabits up," she continued in her statement. "Our goal is to connect everyone, everywhere to high-speed broadband."

Obviously, there is still lots of work to be done when it comes to decent internet accessibility in the U.S. (Two Republican FCC Commissioners dissented in the vote to change this broadband benchmark.) But after the damage caused by the FCC under the last administration, it seems like things are finally headed in the right direction.

The feature directorial debut of comedy writer Kobi Libii, The American Society of Magical Negroes has a fiery premise, but tepid execution leaves its satire feeling lukewarm. However, thanks to an impeccable lead performance from Justice Smith, Libii's more straightforward dramatic material still manages to strike a chord.

The film's title echoes a well-worn American media trope — though the term was first coined by filmmaker Spike Lee in 2001, as the "magical, mystical negro" —  which the movie literalizes in tongue-in-cheek fashion. There's a secret, Hogwarts-esque society of Black cinematic archetypes, and their purpose is to assist white self-actualization. It's a riotous concept at first, one Libii uses to delve into the psyche of Black protagonist Aren (Smith), as well as into thorny corners of contemporary American politics.

SEE ALSO: 'The American Society of Magical Negroes' backlash explained

The film's attention, however, ends up scattered. The further it gets into its 105 minutes, the more it focuses on romantic and workplace issues. These themes are initially bolstered by Libii's deconstructive satire, but they end up superseding it, becoming the dominant focus in the process. Before long, the interpersonal drama progresses beyond the need for the movie's comedic premise in the first place, and while it often stands on its own as a rom-com, the satire gradually loses its edge.  

What is The American Society of Magical Negroes about? Credit: Focus Features

Aren, a meek, soft-spoken Black artist traversing white spaces in LA — like art galleries —  has trouble standing up for himself, and for the conceptual sculptures he makes from yarn. His timid behavior at a gallery event catches the attention of elderly bartender Roger (David Alan Grier), who follows him home and gets him out of a sticky situation with a magical snap of his fingers and some nifty teleportation.

Roger, it turns out, hopes to recruit Aren to a secret society, whose headquarters he reveals behind the false wall of a barbershop. With its lush, carpeted interiors, and hallways boasting historical portraits, the American Society of Magical Negroes trains young Black initiates to learn the ropes of white appeasement. Their credo stems from the idea that white self-satisfaction ensures Black safety in America, an idea the film dramatizes on Aren's first assignment.

Roger introduces Aren to a white police officer undergoing a midlife crisis. Pep talks from Aren keep the officer happy and calm, while the alternative — displayed in the form of a magic meter that appears on screen and measures the cop's bruised ego — is the potential for violent outbursts at some point in the future, as Roger explains. 

Credit: Focus Features

The film never depicts the immediate fallout of these dangers — an understandable route to take if a Black filmmaker wants to avoid depicting violence against Black bodies on screen — leaving only Roger's tenuous descriptions of possible domino effects that might lead to violent outcomes. While the threat of police violence against Black characters hovers over several initial scenes, the line connecting the Society's mission to preventing these results in the long term is more of a suggestion from Roger. It's a hypothetical, as though the film were holding a mirror to the kind of respectability politics that positions quiet acceptance as an alternative to revolution, or to even ruffling any feathers. 

Through archival clips shown to Aren, projected through magical clouds of smoke, the movie portrays several Hollywood "magical negro" stock types. These examples emerge from across the decades, echoing the likes of the upbeat Uncle Remus (James Baskett) from Song of the South, for whom Jim Crow laws are no match for sagely advice, to Hoke Colburn (Morgan Freeman) in Driving Miss Daisy, who reforms racism with a smile. Some more recent examples, like John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan) in Tom Hanks-starrer The Green Mile, even have literal magical powers which they use to heal white characters despite their own suffering, which is ripe for parody in a film like this one. American Society lampoons The Green Mile's imagery numerous times through scenes of Black men healing their white counterparts' sexual anxieties by grabbing their genitals, the way Coffey relieves Hanks' prison warden of his bladder infection. It's amusing as a reference, and absurdly funny as an instructional image for Aren to follow. 

After an energetic montage — during which Libii's camera circles Aren as he grows more comfortable and acclimates to the program — the young recruit is given his first long-term assignment: protecting and supporting haughty white tech executive Jason (Drew Tarver, The Other Two). However, after Aren infiltrates Jason's company and hops aboard as a designer, his objectives becomes complicated once his desires and duties clash: He begins flirting with his mixed-race, white-passing coworker Lizzie (An-Li Bogan), who also happens to be object of Jason's affections.

The movie's workplace romance nudges its magical satire off-screen. Credit: Focus Features

Alluring chemistry between romantic leads is a good problem to have. Smith and Bogan buoy even the movie's less exciting, less interestingly staged scenes with their cutesy, awkward longing as Lizzie and Aren tiptoe carefully around the boundaries between coworker and friend (and eventually, something more). Add to this the fact that Tarver plays a truly detestable antagonist — a sniveling, easily wounded manipulator who constantly needs his insecurities soothed — and you have the perfect cocktail.

Once Aren begins to juggle his crush on Lizzie with his duty to support Jason, the film primarily becomes about a familiar (and in many ways, realistic) clash between Aren's work and personal life. Roger keeps adding new mechanics to this tale, but ideas like the whole Magical Society will lose its powers if Aren fails in his duties or acts too selfishly fails to track as a coherent metaphor for the group's appeasement and assimilation themes.

All the while, Grier still imbues Roger with intriguing pathos as an old-timer who's seen too many Black people felled by white America (and has himself given up too much in service of saving them) to let Aren sabotage the Society. However, he finds moving familiarity in Aren's romantic dilemma, and inadvertently makes the romance plot feel more urgent than anything going on behind the barbershop walls. Perhaps spending more time with the actual Society, exploring its mechanics, depicting its magical elements, and laying out the consequences of Aren's failure might've made this part of the movie matter a little more. But luckily, Smith has evolved so much as a performer in recent years — going to from the broad strokes of Detective Pikachu to one of this year’s buzziest festival titles, I Saw the TV Glow —  that he practically warps the film around his screen presence, especially in its final act.

Justice Smith delivers a commanding performance. Credit: Focus Features

The American Society of Magical Negroes falters in too many places to be a biting satire classic, but its one unimpeachable strength is its lead performance. As Aren, Smith rides a delicate line between projecting a cartoonish awkwardness for the back row, and imbuing his hesitant body language with a deep insecurity.

Early in the film, Roger mentions one of the reasons he recruited Aren was the timid way he traversed white spaces, which Aren assures him he's been doing his whole life as a Black man with a white parent, and a white family. Though we never meet Aren's family or see him interact with them, Smith folds this element of Aren's backstory into his performance in minute ways, subtly code-switching and becoming more comfortable with his physicality the closer he grows to Lizzie. Unfortunately, Aren's lack of interaction with Black characters outside of the Society limits Smith's ability to fully explore Aren's shifting comfort in his own skin.

However, after enduring the suffocating workplace mechanics of the tech company — a structure within which Aren has to capitulate to and appease white characters, regardless of his mission — he's pushed to his emotional limit. This leads to an outburst that clunkily verbalizes the movie's subtext with all the nuance of an off-the-cuff Twitter thread. Smith is so dialed into Aren's anger and isolation that he reaches deep down into his gut and retrieves a raw emotional anguish, taking what could've been a scene of empty preaching and making it genuinely rousing.

The movie's funniest, most impactful, and most incisive scenes about the experience of Blackness in America not only unfold far outside the Society's walls, but outside its fictional confines too. The American Society of Magical Negroes has an ingenious backdrop, but in failing to explore or expand on it, the film sheds the need for its satirical setup in the first place — a sure disappointment to those who, upon the trailer’s release, expressed dismay that a Black fantasy film would rather center white appeasement, rather than a more complete and nuanced set of Black experiences. By the end, the movie's introspective workplace rom-com works just fine without its magical premise, which feels like a letdown too.

The American Society of Magical Negroes is now in theaters.

Pornhub, you can take away Texans' porn, but what you won't do is take away their determination to get their NSFW content — come hell or high water.

As we reported on Friday, Pornhub went dark in Texas. Why? The state has new age verification laws. As such, anyone who has a Texas IP is blocked from accessing the adult website.

"[W]e have made the difficult decision to completely disable access to our website in Texas," Pornhub said in a notice. "In doing so, we are complying with the law, as we always do, but hope that governments around the world will implement laws that actually protect the safety and security of our users."

Unsurprisingly, this skyrocketed searches for the best VPNs. According to a SlashGear report sent to Mashable, searches for "Texas VPN" jumped by 1,750 percent in the past day. It also spotted a 1,600 percent increase for the phrase "How to access Pornhub."

Curious about which VPNs people are looking at as Pornhub becomes out of reach? Here's what SlashGear found:

SEE ALSO: Unblock Pornhub for free with this simple hack Top 10 VPNs, according to Google Search trends

Proton VPN is, by far, the most popular VPNs appearing on search with an increase of 4,750 percent. Check out the full list:

1. Proton VPN - 4,750 percent2. Open GX Mobile VPN - 300 percent3. VPN hub - 300 percent4. Tunnelbear - 130 percent5. NordVPN - 100 percent6. Mullvad VPN - 100 percent7. Windscribe - 80 percent8. Browsec VPN - 80 percent9. Firefox VPN - 70 percent10. Opera VPN - 50 percent

Interestingly, we happened to review Proton VPN. And according to Mashable's Haley Henschel, who's at the helm of our best VPNs buying guide, Proton VPN offers a free plan. But of course, the Plus tier is recommended for full access to its network, P2P support, up to 10 simultaneous connections, Tor access, and more.

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UPDATE: Mar. 15, 2024, 12:59 p.m. EDT This piece was updated to include additional information provided to Mashable by Google DeepMind.

Computer-controlled video game characters aren't anything new. Non-playable characters or NPCs are longtime staples of gaming. 

However, Google's AI research lab, DeepMind, has announced work on something distinct and new in computer-controlled gameplay: SIMA, which stands for Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agent.

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Unlike NPCs, Google DeepMind's AI-controlled gaming companion isn't programmed into a specific game to act a certain way or respond to certain human-provided actions. SIMA is, as DeepMind describes it, a "generalist AI agent for 3D virtual environments." 

SIMA is not an NPC

SIMA plays along with gamers, acting as a human player, by following verbal commands. As Google explains, "SIMA isn't trained to win a game." It's primed to work alongside the human player and perform actions based on natural language prompts.

This element is crucial to what makes SIMA unique. Again, SIMA isn't an NPC, designed specifically to a certain title, which is meant to provide a challenge to the player. SIMA acts as a fellow gamer trying to accomplish whatever the human player is telling it to do.

"SIMA needs only the images provided by the 3D environment and natural-language instructions given by the user," Google says. "With mouse and keyboard outputs, it is evaluated across 600 skills, spanning areas like navigation and object interaction - such as 'turn left' or 'chop down tree.'"

According to Google DeepMind, SIMA was trained and tested on nine different video game titles of varying gaming genres, including No Man’s Sky, Goat Simulator 3, Teardown, and Wobbly Life. The training does not require use of any sort of access to the games' source code or APIs. Google DeepMind says it focused on open-play games over narrative ones to facilitate SIMA's training in more general gaming skills.

There are some positives, and some very obvious negatives, with SIMA. An AI gaming companion could be nice when an individual wants to play a multiplayer game or an offline two-player story-mode without another human around to pick a controller.

But, the ideas driving SIMA's research could obviously be used in bad faith, too. Gamers could use SIMA for an unfair advantage in online gameplay. Games where players have to perform monotonous tasks for resources or complete quests to gain XP could obviously be manipulated by a human just telling an AI companion to do all of that work for them.

Google DeepMind reached out to Mashable to share that it has those same concerns regarding unintended uses of SIMA, as many on the team are gamers or former game developers themselves.

DeepMind reiterated that SIMA is a research project and video games are the sandbox that the team is using to test the AI agent's abilities. DeepMind currently has no plans to make SIMA widely available and says it will make sure it does not contribute to the bot problem in gaming.

As Google shared, its video gaming playing AI agent is not being prepped for public use at this time. For now, it's still in the midst of learning to play new video games.

Black Mirror season 7 is coming back, Netflix announced on X. "Six new stories, but one looks a little familiar. Black Mirror returns 2025," the post said.

Most are excited for its return. However, there's no shortage of criticism, with many X users expressing disappointment with Black Mirror season 6. Still, fans still have hope that it will have its moment of redemption.

SEE ALSO: We told you. Netflix is using your photos in a 'Black Mirror' ad campaign. 1. Make 'Black Mirror' great again

Across sites like The Wrap, Collider and Dexerto, Black Mirror seasons 5 and 6 are consistently ranked low, but season 2 and 3 praised as the series' best batch of episodes.

According to Ranker, season 3 is rated as Black Mirror's best. Season 5 and 6 were rated as the worst with the former being a total stinker, according to over 60 Ranker voters.

The sentiment that Black Mirror's recent seasons are flops are mirrored, pun unintended, on X, too.

"And it better be BETTER than the last season bc that was trash," said @ShadBoogie.

"Still trying? Last few seasons were nowhere near the Black Mirror we liked Maybe because reality is closer to black mirror than the actual show now," @Khan_Mani_ said.

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"Hoping this is actually like the first seasons which were more of a 'near future technological dystopian' not whatever the newest season was," @mduart3 said.

"Last season was not good, hope this one is better," @zheer_official said.

"It's been crap for a while now, time to turn it in," @RonaldZellman said.

"Season 6 was weak. Please bring back old storytelling style for the new season. A lotta episodes in S6 didn't even fit the narrative of the show," said @IamABjabbar.

SEE ALSO: Apple Vision Pro video is giving us 'Black Mirror' vibes 2. Let's revisit 'U.S.S Callister'

In its X announcement post, Netflix said that one of the six new episodes will "look a little familiar," hinting to fans that Black Mirror season 7 will give a nod to a previous episode.

Scrolling through the replies, it appears that fans have caught on that Black Mirror will likely revisit "U.S.S Callister," the first episode of season 4. "U.S.S Callister" is a Star Trek parody with a VR twist that features socially awkward programmer Robert Daly as the spaceship captain. Aboard the ship are digital clones of Daly's colleagues, allowing him to play out fantasies of power and control that he doesn't have in real life.

A hawk-eyed X user spotted the U.S.S. Callister symbol in the Black Mirror season 7 trailer Netflix dropped on X.

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Fans seem to be excited about a possible return to the twisted, mind-warping spaceship:

"One of these new stories is a sequel to USS Callister, I presume? Alright, you've piqued my interest even more," @NabeeRuffin said

USS Callister? That’s an interesting one to revisit," said @KendrickFlinn.

"USS Callister sequel? I've been waiting so long," said @louneetoon.

SEE ALSO: 20 of the most WTF quotes from Season 6 of 'Black Mirror.' You'll cry — and laugh. 3. Only six episodes?

Although Black Mirror fans are relieved to see that the show is returning, many are disappointed that they're only getting six episodes.

"2025? We need more episodes if we have to wait this long!!" said @KiraaWells.

"That's a long long time nd just six episodes?!?!?" said @drewrossaneis.

"Ok but why JUST 6??" @DValentinaXo asked Netflix.

3. You told us too early, Netflix

Some Black Mirror fans are scratching their heads about why Netflix decided to tell them about its release a year ahead of the drop. "Omg I’ll be 10,0000 years old by then," an X user with the moniker The Opinion Minion said.

Many others chimed in, agreeing that Black Mirror appears to be too far away for an announcement.

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"Ok why are you telling us this? It’s legit March 2024 ok?" said @Squashbossqueen.

"2025? Girl that’s at least 9 months away. BFFR" said @dragqueenjp.

"That’s cruel to tease us then we have to wait a year," said CineMoveTV.

"There will be 3 price hikes before this comes out," @bradmyersotrl joked.

"2025?!? Why do these things take YEARS to make????" @dustviiixi asked.

And @ambre_ely conveyed their frustrations in three words: "2025 too far."

5. We're already living in 'Black Mirror'

With controversial technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and spatial computing (e.g., Apple Vision Pro) making a splash this year, some X users fear that they're already living a Black Mirror-esque life as we speak.

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"dnt think we need this show anymore we are living in it now," said @tixmaurie.

"What's the point?" @k_biizy asked. "We've been living through the longest episode of Black Mirror."

"We’ve been living it for the last 14 years. It never went away," said @jogginjogee.

"Black Mirror is already happening. Follow #AI on twitter," @sanketdongre369 warned.

"I think we're already there," @TaraRBear said.

With Black Mirror being known to be a reflection of what our society could be if technological advancements go unchecked, I expect the next batch of episodes to touch upon themes like AI, virtual reality, augmented reality, robotics, and more.

Stay tuned for Mashable's coverage of Black Mirror once it drops next year.

BeReal is in a real bind.

According to Business Insider, employees were told at a February all-hands meeting that the app had about ten months of runway left before running out of money. While BeReal has maintained a relatively low head count of 60 employees, its server costs are significant. Now, leadership is scrambling to make the app appealing to investors.

SEE ALSO: BeReal unveils its latest attempt to Be Relevant again

BeReal's unique, in-the-moment photo-sharing feature transformed it into a cultural phenomenon at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Heralded as the "anti-Instagram," the company reached a valuation of $600 million in 2022 after securing $90 million in funding that same year. But the app's growth has since slowed, even after an attempt to diversify its appeal by adding new features in 2023.

According to internal metrics shared with Business Insider, BeReal currently has 40 million monthly active users and 25 million daily active users, up from 20 million in 2022. But sources said that jump is unimpressive in the eyes of investors and that the company was struggling to drum up interest in funding. Leadership also told employees that "We're talking to some of the biggest tech companies in the world" about a potential acquisition. But if a solution doesn't present itself soon, BeReal may be doomed — like the photos on the app — to disappear.