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Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Senior Editor, Entertainment Marina is a celebrated pop culture columnist and recipient of multiple media awards. She curates engaging stories about film, music, television, and celebrity news, always with a fresh and authoritative voice.

Entertainment

Amazon Prime Video: Up to 50% Off Thousands of Movies & Oscar Favorites!

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Film fans, rejoice! Amazon Prime Video is currently hosting a massive film sale, offering discounts of up to 50% on thousands of titles. This includes a selection of films that are already generating Oscar buzz, providing a perfect opportunity to catch up on potential award winners before the ceremony. Whether you’re a fan of classic comedies, superhero blockbusters, or critically acclaimed dramas, there’s likely something for everyone in this expansive sale.

The sale encompasses a wide range of genres and includes both Amazon Original movies and titles available for purchase or rental. What we have is a prime opportunity for movie buffs to build their digital libraries or simply enjoy a night in with a discounted film. The timing of the sale is particularly noteworthy, as it allows viewers to experience many of the films nominated for the 2026 Oscars before the awards are presented. Finding the best deals on streaming movies is always a win for consumers and Amazon’s current promotion delivers on that front.

Oscar Nominees Available on Prime Video

According to recent reports, several of the 2026 Oscar nominees are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video as part of this sale. Amazon is making it easier than ever to watch the contenders. Even as specific titles aren’t yet widely publicized, the availability of Oscar-nominated films within the sale is a major draw for cinephiles.

Beyond the Oscars: Amazon’s Extensive Film Library

The Amazon Prime Video catalog extends far beyond potential Oscar winners. Entertainment Weekly recently highlighted 23 of the best Amazon Original movies, including critically acclaimed films like “Air” and “Sound of Metal.” The platform also boasts a strong selection of other popular titles, catering to diverse tastes. From action-packed thrillers to heartwarming comedies, Amazon Prime Video continues to expand its offerings, solidifying its position as a leading streaming service.

The Modern York Times provides ongoing recommendations for the best movies currently available on Amazon Prime Video, ensuring viewers always have access to top-tier entertainment. This constant curation of content helps subscribers discover hidden gems and stay up-to-date with the latest releases.

How to Access the Sale

To take advantage of the discounts, simply visit the Amazon Prime Video website or app. The sale is currently live and offers savings of up to 50% on a vast selection of films. Vanity Fair offers a guide on how to watch the 2026 Oscar-nominated movies, many of which are accessible through this promotion. The sale is a limited-time offer, so viewers are encouraged to browse the selection and make their purchases or rentals soon.

TVGuide.com also provides information on where to stream the 2026 Oscar nominees, highlighting Amazon Prime Video as a key destination for film enthusiasts.

As the awards season progresses, Amazon Prime Video’s film sale provides a convenient and affordable way to experience the year’s most celebrated movies. The platform’s commitment to offering a diverse and high-quality selection of films continues to attract viewers and establish it as a leading force in the streaming landscape.

Keep an eye on Amazon Prime Video for further updates on new releases and promotions. The streaming service is constantly evolving its catalog, ensuring there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover. Share your favorite finds from the sale in the comments below!

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Entertainment

Sondra Lee, ‘Peter Pan’ & ‘Hello, Dolly!’ Star, Dies at 97

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Sondra Lee, a celebrated Broadway performer renowned for originating the role of Tiger Lily in Peter Pan and Minnie Fay in Hello, Dolly!, has died at the age of 97. Her passing, announced by friend and former Broadway press agent Joshua Ellis, marks the end of a nine-decade career that spanned stage, screen and teaching.

Lee died Monday of natural causes in her New York apartment, according to Ellis, who is now a minister. A diminutive figure at 4-foot-10½, Lee captivated audiences with her talent and versatility, leaving an indelible mark on American musical theater. Her work extended beyond performance, encompassing roles as a dancer, actor, teacher, author, stage director, playwright, film consultant, and painter.

Lee’s Broadway debut came in 1947 with Jerome Robbins’ High Button Shoes, starring Phil Silvers and Nanette Fabray. She would later reunite with Robbins for the iconic 1954 production of Peter Pan, opposite Mary Martin. The production was groundbreaking, becoming the first full-length Broadway show filmed in color for television, attracting a then-record 65 million viewers, according to her Wikipedia entry.

Lee’s talent wasn’t limited to a single role. In 1964, she joined the original cast of Hello, Dolly!, playing Minnie Fay alongside Carol Channing, Ginger Rogers, and Betty Grable. She later toured with Martha Raye and the USO during the Vietnam War, bringing a touch of Broadway to the troops. Lee and Raye were particularly close, with Raye being Lee’s “personal favorite” co-star in the production.

A Life on Stage and Beyond

Born Sondra Lee Gash on September 30, 1928, in Newark, New Jersey – a date she specifically requested be clarified in her obituary, despite many sources listing 1930 – Lee overcame a sickly childhood, receiving growth hormone treatments and battling frequent pneumonia. She pursued her passion for acting from a young age, inspired by Greta Garbo’s performance in Camille (1936). Despite her mother’s desire for a more conventional career path, Lee persevered, beginning dance lessons in her teens at Studio 61 in Carnegie Hall.

Her early career included performances with the YMHA Players in Newark and at the Walnut House on the Hill in the Catskills, where she befriended comedians like Buddy Hackett and Red Buttons. She even shared a boarding house in New York City with fellow performers Wally Cox, Maureen Stapleton, and Marlon Brando. A memorable audition story involved a blunt exchange with Jerome Robbins, who, after a brief assessment, told her, “The audition is over,” before ultimately offering her a dance opportunity.

From Ballet to Film and Teaching

Lee’s versatility extended beyond Broadway. She spent time in Paris with Roland Petit’s La Revue des Ballets de Paris and was part of Robbins’ Ballets: U.S.A. Troupe, performing internationally. Federico Fellini even cast her as an American ballerina in his 1960 film, La Dolce Vita. She also appeared in Broadway productions of Hotel Paradiso (1957) and Sunday in New York (1961).

Later in her career, Lee transitioned to teaching, sharing her expertise at the NYU Drama School and the Stella Adler Conservatory. She became known for her unique skill in coaching actors on how to convincingly portray death scenes, a testament to her deep understanding of performance and physicality. She coached a remarkable roster of actors, including Jane Fonda, Sally Field, Marlon Brando, Dustin Hoffman, and Amy Adams.

A Lasting Legacy

Lee’s contributions to the performing arts were recognized through her directorial work, including Hillbilly Women at the ArcLight Theater in 2011, based on Kathy Kahn’s book. She also directed cabaret shows celebrating the music of Stephen Sondheim. Her final public appearance was at Carnegie Hall in June, for a concert performance of Hello, Dolly!, where she received a standing ovation as the last surviving original principal artiste.

Lee authored the memoir I’ve Slept With Everybody in 2009, offering a candid look at her life and career, and was working on a second book, Snapshots Redux, at the time of her death. A celebration of her life and career is planned.

Sondra Lee’s remarkable career, spanning decades and encompassing a wide range of artistic endeavors, leaves a lasting legacy in the world of theater and beyond. Her influence will continue to be felt through the countless performers she mentored and the audiences she captivated.

Please share your memories of Sondra Lee and her work in the comments below.

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Entertainment

The Bluff: Prime Video Release Date, Cast & Plot Details

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Prime Video is diving headfirst into the world of high-seas adventure with the release of “The Bluff,” a gritty pirate thriller starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The film, directed by Frank E. Flowers – known for his work on “Haven” and co-writing the script for “Bob Marley: One Love” – promises a fresh take on the genre, blending intense action with a compelling narrative. Available now on the streaming platform, “The Bluff” is already generating buzz for its hard-R rating and captivating performances.

The story centers on Ercell Bodden, portrayed by Chopra Jonas, a former pirate with a notorious past as ‘Bloody Mary.’ Having seemingly left that life behind, she’s built a quiet existence with her family on a remote island. However, her past comes crashing back when her former, vengeful crew resurfaces, forcing her to reclaim her dangerous identity to protect everything she holds dear. The film explores themes of redemption, family, and the inescapable pull of a life once lived.

Flowers has assembled a formidable cast to bring this action-packed story to life. Alongside Chopra Jonas, “The Bluff” features Karl Urban, recognized for his role in “The Boys,” and Temuera Morrison, a familiar face to “Star Wars” fans. The combination of these seasoned actors elevates the film’s intensity and adds layers of complexity to the characters.

Critics are already weighing in on the 103-minute epic, with opinions proving divided, according to Collider. Some reviewers have lauded Chopra Jonas’s performance, drawing comparisons to John Wick, praising her convincing portrayal of a swashbuckling action hero. Screen Rant highlights her ability to embody the role with a compelling physicality and intensity.

Director Frank E. Flowers discussed his vision for the film in an interview, emphasizing his desire to create a “hard-R pirate thriller” that would stand apart from more family-friendly entries in the genre. Nexus Point News reports that Flowers spoke about the challenges and rewards of working with such a talented cast, particularly Chopra Jonas, and his commitment to delivering a visceral and authentic pirate experience.

“The Bluff” isn’t simply a tale of swashbuckling adventure; it’s a character study of a woman forced to confront her past and make impossible choices. The New York Times notes the film’s exploration of skill and survival, framing Chopra Jonas’s character as possessing “a very particular set of skills.”

As audiences settle in to watch “The Bluff,” the film’s success will likely hinge on its ability to deliver on the promise of thrilling action and compelling character development. The film’s release marks a significant moment for both Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Frank E. Flowers, solidifying their positions as forces to be reckoned with in the world of action cinema. The streaming release on Prime Video provides a wide audience access to this new take on the pirate genre.

What will critics say as more reviews come in? Share your thoughts on “The Bluff” in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow film enthusiasts!

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Entertainment

Tourette’s Syndrome: Understanding Tics, Coprolalia & Social Stigma

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

In a moment that shocked attendees and viewers alike, John Davidson, a prominent advocate for Tourette syndrome, shouted a racial slur during Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo’s speech at the BAFTA film awards in London on February 22, 2026. This incident has reignited conversations about the complexities of Tourette syndrome, particularly its most misunderstood symptom: coprolalia, or involuntary utterances of obscene or socially inappropriate words. Despite its rarity, Davidson’s outburst has highlighted the stigma and misconceptions surrounding this neurological condition.

Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately 0.5% to 0.7% of the global population. It manifests as involuntary movements and sounds known as tics, which typically begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood. While many individuals with Tourette’s experience common tics like eye blinking or throat clearing, a minority, about 10% to 20%, exhibit coprolalia, which often attracts more media attention than other, more prevalent forms of tic behavior. This skewed representation can distort public understanding of the syndrome.

The media portrayal of Tourette syndrome frequently emphasizes shocking outbursts, leading to a pervasive stereotype that equates the condition with uncontrollable swearing. However, as Davidson’s experience illustrates, the reality is far more nuanced. Most individuals with Tourette syndrome do not experience coprolalia, yet those who do can face significant social repercussions and misunderstandings that can lead to emotional distress.

The Nature of Tics

Tourette syndrome is characterized by a variety of tics, which can be classified into motor tics, such as head jerking or eye blinking and vocal tics, which may include throat clearing or repeating phrases. Coprolalia, while a striking aspect of Tourette syndrome, is only one among many different tic expressions. The frequency and intensity of these tics can fluctuate over time, often influenced by stress levels or environmental triggers.

Understanding Coprolalia

Despite the attention it receives, coprolalia is not the defining feature of Tourette syndrome. That fewer than 1 in 5 people with Tourette’s experience these taboo tics. The stigma associated with coprolalia can lead to social isolation, bullying, and discrimination, which compounds the challenges faced by those living with the condition. Misconceptions that tics reflect a person’s true feelings can exacerbate the pressure on individuals, leading to further psychological distress.

The Impact of Misunderstanding

Living with coprolalia presents unique challenges. Many individuals perceive compelled to suppress their tics, which can lead to increased discomfort and anxiety. The social implications of involuntary outbursts can be severe, often resulting in exclusion or barriers to employment. For instance, some individuals have reported feeling unable to work in environments where they cannot openly discuss their condition, highlighting the need for increased awareness and understanding.

families of those with Tourette syndrome often report feelings of helplessness and frustration in navigating societal perceptions and the lack of adequate support systems. Schools and workplaces may not always provide the necessary accommodations, leaving those with Tourette’s to fend for themselves amidst stigma and misunderstanding.

Moving Forward

The recent incident at the BAFTA awards serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing need for education and empathy regarding Tourette syndrome. Advocates like Davidson have dedicated their lives to raising awareness about the complexities of this condition, aiming to dismantle harmful stereotypes and foster a more inclusive environment for individuals with Tourette’s.

As discussions around mental health and neurological conditions continue to evolve, it is essential for society to recognize the diversity of experiences within conditions like Tourette syndrome. Increased understanding can help reduce stigma and improve the quality of life for those affected. Engaging in conversations, supporting advocacy efforts, and promoting inclusive policies are vital steps toward creating a more understanding society.

For those interested in learning more about Tourette syndrome and supporting individuals with the condition, resources are available through organizations dedicated to advocacy and education. It is crucial that we continue to foster dialogue that promotes understanding and acceptance, ensuring that individuals with Tourette syndrome can live openly and authentically without fear of judgment.

If you have thoughts on this topic or want to share your experiences, feel free to leave a comment and share this article to help raise awareness.

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