Captain America: Brave New World – UK Blu-ray and 4K Steelbook Release Confirmed for May 2025
Following announcements of international home releases, detailed information has now been revealed for the German market release of Captain America: Brave New World (USA/Canada, 2025). Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, in collaboration with Leonine, will distribute the Marvel superhero film directed by Julius Onah on 23 May 2025. The movie stars Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, Danny Ramirez and Shira Haas in leading roles.
The Blu-ray edition will include a German Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 audio track, while the Ultra HD Blu-ray will be available in a limited-edition Steelbook featuring Dolby Atmos sound in English and Dolby Vision support. Bonus features will include deleted scenes, an audio commentary by Julius Onah and Kramer Morgentha, outtakes, and two behind-the-scenes featurettes: Taking the Lead and Old Scores, New Scars.
In addition, a 4-disc Blu-ray box set will be released, compiling the full Captain America saga: The First Avenger (2011), The Winter Soldier (2014), Civil War (2016), and Brave New World (2025), packaged in a standard Keep Case. A 4K “4-Movie Collection” will also be available, presented in four softbox editions housed in a slipcase.
Plot Overview
Set in the aftermath of recent MCU events, Brave New World follows a major discovery during the exploration of the newly emerged landmass known as Tiamut. Scientists uncover a rare metal, Adamantium, which surpasses even the legendary Vibranium in its near-indestructible properties.
The find triggers a global race to claim ownership of the resource. Determined to prevent other powers from gaining access, newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross (played by Harrison Ford) takes an aggressive stance. His objective: to revive and upgrade the Weapon Plus programme, using Adamantium to build a new generation of super-soldiers.
Standing in opposition to this dangerous plan is the new Captain America, Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie). With support from allies such as the new Falcon, Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez), and Sabra (Shira Haas), Wilson seeks to halt Ross’s militaristic ambitions. The team also aims to stop Ross’s chief scientist, Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson), who plays a crucial role in the project.
However, President Ross’s hunger for power leads him to increasingly extreme actions, leaving even his own daughter, Betty Ross (Liv Tyler), powerless to intervene. Behind the scenes, a secret criminal organisation is fuelling the conflict, intent on pushing the world into chaos.
Captain America: Brave New World is poised to deliver action-packed drama and political intrigue, adding new depth to the Marvel Cinematic Universe when it arrives on home entertainment platforms in May 2025.
Kitty Castledine Joins EastEnders as Penny Branning – A Rising Star with Famous Roots
Penny Branning has quickly become a familiar face on EastEnders, thanks to the arrival of actress Kitty Castledine, who stepped into the role as part of the well-known Branning family. Penny’s return to Albert Square earlier this year marked a significant twist in the soap’s storyline, with plenty of drama unfolding almost immediately.
The character Penny Branning is the daughter of long-standing EastEnders figure Jack Branning, and she arrived in Walford alongside her cousin Lauren Branning, portrayed once again by Jacqueline Jossa. Not long after her arrival, Penny became entangled in a serious situation involving drug smuggling. While she was asked to bring drugs into the UK, she instead planted them on Lauren, who was subsequently caught and faced potential prison time. The incident sent shockwaves through the Branning family, placing Penny firmly at the centre of the action.
Kitty Castledine’s casting has drawn considerable attention, not just because of her strong debut performance, but also due to her impressive real-life connections. Kitty comes from a well-known family with ties to both sport and television. Her mother is Lucy Alexander, best known for presenting Homes Under The Hammer, a popular BBC property show. Lucy was quick to express her pride on social media following the news of Kitty joining EastEnders, describing it as a major moment for their family.
Kitty’s father and brother are both involved in football, adding to the public profile of her family. Additionally, Kitty herself has developed friendships with notable figures from ITV, expanding her network across the British entertainment scene.
Speaking about her role, Kitty shared her excitement about being cast so soon after graduating from drama school. “I didn’t expect to start my EastEnders journey so soon after finishing training – it still doesn’t feel real,” she said. “My whole family are lifelong fans of the show. I remember watching it with my Nanny Kay when I was little, and now they’re watching me on screen. It’s incredibly special.”
As a wheelchair user, Kitty has also highlighted the importance of disability representation on screen. She’s particularly proud to play a dynamic, independent character like Penny. “The inclusion of disabled talent on television is something I care deeply about,” she added. “Penny is feisty and cool – she’s thrown into the drama right away, and I’m so excited to see where her journey takes her.”
Kitty’s portrayal has already been praised for bringing a fresh energy to EastEnders, while also opening the door to more inclusive storytelling. With her personal charisma and a storyline packed with tension and emotion, Penny Branning looks set to become a central figure in the soap’s evolving narrative.
And for Kitty Castledine, this marks just the beginning of what promises to be a bright career in British television.
“Woke” Snow White Reboot Flops at the Box Office — Is Rachel Zegler to Blame?
Disney’s highly anticipated live-action remake of Snow White has turned into a major box office failure, earning the dubious honour of being one of the worst-rated films by both critics and audiences in recent memory. Despite a staggering production budget of $250 million, the film is expected to deliver only financial losses. As the studio scrambles to understand what went wrong, much of the blame is being directed at the film’s lead actress, Rachel Zegler.
From the outset, the project seemed cursed. Production was plagued by pandemic-related shutdowns, a Hollywood actors’ strike, and a series of controversies that fuelled criticism well before the film’s release. Among the most contentious points were the film’s casting choices and attempts to modernise the beloved 1937 animated classic — efforts that many fans saw as forced or unnecessary.
Rachel Zegler, known for her vocal political views, became a lightning rod for criticism. She openly criticised the original Snow White, calling it outdated, and publicly expressed support for Palestine and opposition to Donald Trump. Her comments created a backlash online, with some fans accusing her of disrespecting the legacy of the original film and alienating a significant portion of the potential audience.
Rewriting a Classic
The 1937 version of Snow White is widely regarded as a cinematic masterpiece, both in the realm of animation and storytelling. It was Disney’s first full-length animated feature and set the standard for generations of animated films. In line with recent trends, Disney has spent the past decade revisiting its animated back catalogue, releasing live-action remakes of classics like Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid.
However, the attempt to adapt Snow White for 21st-century audiences has not gone smoothly. One of the most visible changes is the casting of Zegler, a Latina actress, in the lead role. In the original Grimm tale and Disney version, Snow White is named for the fairness of her skin — something the new film reinterprets by attributing the name to her being born during a snowstorm.
The seven dwarfs — iconic characters in the original — have also undergone a radical transformation. In this adaptation, they are replaced by mythical creatures rendered in CGI, a move intended to avoid offending individuals with dwarfism. Yet their digital depiction has been widely criticised as awkward and unappealing.
Additionally, the romantic subplot has been revised. Gone is the classic song Someday My Prince Will Come, and with it, the prince himself. In his place is a reimagined character — a well-meaning thief — who ultimately wins Snow White’s heart. The princess, meanwhile, has been portrayed as an empowered heroine who no longer cooks or cleans for others but instead encourages shared responsibility among her companions.
A Film Released at the Wrong Time
The release of Snow White comes at a moment when “woke” culture is facing growing pushback in the United States, particularly after Donald Trump’s recent political resurgence. In this context, Disney’s reimagining of Snow White — notably marketed without reference to the “Seven Dwarfs” — may have missed the mark.
Directed by Marc Webb and released on 21 March, the film grossed just $44.3 million during its opening weekend in the US — well below pre-release expectations of $45–55 million. Worldwide, the film managed to earn $87 million, making it the weakest domestic debut for any Disney live-action remake.
Given the high production and promotional costs, experts say it is virtually impossible for the film to break even, let alone turn a profit. The commercial and critical failure of Snow White raises serious questions about Disney’s current strategy of reinterpreting classic stories through a contemporary lens — especially when it alienates both nostalgic audiences and new viewers.
In the end, while Rachel Zegler may not be solely responsible for the film’s failure, her role at the centre of its controversy cannot be ignored. For Disney, this flop serves as a stark reminder that even beloved fairy tales are not immune to modern-day culture wars.
Explosion Cliffhanger in Emmerdale: Are Cain and Moira Dingle Dead?
Emmerdale fans have been left on the edge of their seats following a shocking episode in which Cain and Moira Dingle were caught in a barn explosion. The intense scenes aired on Wednesday night, with viewers still uncertain about the fate of the much-loved couple.
The dramatic sequence unfolded as flames engulfed Moira’s barn, trapping her and Cain inside. The pair were shown desperately trying to escape as the fire rapidly spread, causing panic among their friends and family who watched on helplessly from outside.
Earlier in the episode, Ruby Miligan was rescued from the blaze by Mackenzie Boyd and John Sugden. After ensuring Ruby was safe, they remained outside the barn along with Cain’s siblings, Caleb Miligan and Chas Dingle, hoping the others would make it out alive.
Cain, realising Moira hadn’t escaped with the others, rushed back into the burning building to find her. He eventually located his wife, and the couple began their frantic attempt to get out. In a touching moment amidst the chaos, Moira confessed her love to Cain, a poignant reminder of their emotional journey despite recent marital difficulties.
In a desperate bid to survive, Cain grabbed a large blanket to shield them from the intense heat and flames. Wrapping Moira and himself in the fabric, they attempted to navigate their way towards the barn’s entrance. Outside, their loved ones looked on, waiting anxiously for any sign of them.
Just as it seemed there might be a chance of escape, the barn exploded in a massive fireball. The blast was powerful enough to throw those outside to the ground. Cain and Moira were still inside at the moment of the explosion, leaving their fate uncertain.
Fans immediately took to social media to share their theories, with many fearing the worst. Some viewers believe the explosion could mark the end for one or both characters, speculating that the show may be preparing for an emotional exit.
Cain and Moira are two of the soap’s most iconic characters, and their potential departure would mark a significant shift in the storyline. Neither actor has confirmed any plans to leave Emmerdale, which only adds to the suspense and speculation surrounding the storyline.
The show has a history of delivering dramatic twists and turns, and this latest cliffhanger is no exception. With the next episode yet to reveal whether Cain and Moira survived, fans are eagerly awaiting answers.
What lies ahead remains to be seen. Whether this explosive event leads to tragedy or miraculous survival, it’s clear that Emmerdale is not holding back on high-stakes drama. Until more is revealed, viewers will have to sit tight and hope for a positive outcome for the Dingles.
Schlaumeier and the Magic Lamp: Berlinale Opener “The Light” Falls Short
The opening film of the 75th Berlinale, The Light, follows a Berlin family and their Syrian housekeeper on a journey of self-discovery. Director Tom Tykwer pushes his fascination with the esoteric to the limit—only to stumble spectacularly.
Everything happens at once, and everything is somehow interconnected. This is made clear right from the start of Tykwer’s The Light, which was chosen to open this year’s Berlinale. The film’s opening montage, accompanied by a softly advancing string score, introduces the affluent but emotionally detached Engels family, living in a spacious period apartment in central Berlin. Though they reside under the same roof, they largely exist in isolation from one another. Tykwer leans heavily into clichés as he sketches out their parallel lives.
VR Loneliness and Party Affection
Mother Milena (Nicolette Krebitz) frequently flies to Kenya, where she is overseeing the construction of a theatre funded by ministry grants. Even when she is in Berlin, she remains absorbed in her phone, her mind elsewhere. Father Tim (Lars Eidinger) spends his days sprawled on a leather sofa in his advertising agency, endlessly explaining the world to those around him in a classic display of “mansplaining.” Their 17-year-old daughter Frieda (Elke Biesendorfer) drifts through Berlin’s nightlife in a haze, entangled in drug-fuelled embraces with her friends, while only expressing disdain for her parents. Meanwhile, her twin brother Jon (Julius Gause) barricades himself in his chaotic room, immersing himself in a complex virtual reality game.
Amid this dysfunction, the family’s Polish housekeeper suffers a fatal heart attack, lying unnoticed in the kitchen for hours before her self-absorbed employers finally discover her body. Enter Farrah (Tara Al-Deen), a Syrian refugee who lives in a shared apartment with other displaced women and carries a mysterious past. She eventually becomes the Engels’ new housekeeper, introducing an unusual therapy involving a flickering “magic lamp,” which appears to give the film its title. When directed at the face with closed eyes, this strobe-like light is said to induce altered states of consciousness.
Eidinger Strips Down
It rains. And rains. And rains. Tim repeatedly enters the flat, dripping wet in a sodden rain poncho, leaving a trail of water in his wake. At other times, he strips completely naked upon arrival and spends the rest of the evening parading around the apartment unclothed. Anyone who previously dismissed the stereotype of Lars Eidinger’s penchant for on-screen nudity will find no counterarguments here. But why all the rain? The answer, revealed at the film’s end, is a painfully sentimental and politically fashionable twist, best left undisclosed.
“Schlaumeier,” Tim remarks to Farrah at one point, when she explains the dynamics of his family to him. He means it kindly, though with a hint of condescension. Yet, Farrah soon becomes a wise confidante to all four family members. Each, in their own way, hopes for a fundamental change in their lives and relationships. They all seek self-discovery, and each eventually confides their deepest secrets to Farrah—or only comes to realise them through their interactions with her.
Farrah Has Her Own Agenda
However, Farrah has an agenda of her own—though revealing it would be a spoiler, despite the fact that the film’s direction soon becomes apparent. Suffice it to say, her magic lamp plays a pivotal role in guiding the family toward a different state of being.
It is not just Farrah who plays the role of the all-knowing “Schlaumeier”—director and screenwriter Tykwer does the same, weaving intricate connections between all elements of the story. Yet, in doing so, he completely overreaches. This applies not just to the film’s philosophical scope, but also its sheer length: The Light runs for a staggering 162 minutes.
The Loss of Playfulness
Tykwer has always had a leaning towards the esoteric. His breakout film, Run Lola Run, which followed Franka Potente’s character through three variations of events in an attempt to save her boyfriend, was ultimately an experiment in parallel realities. Similarly, Cloud Atlas, co-directed with the Wachowskis, spanned multiple centuries to explore mystical connections between lives.
However, where Tykwer’s earlier films combined weighty themes with an element of playful curiosity, The Light lacks this quality. Instead, it drifts into self-indulgent sentimentality. Overly enamoured with its own ideas and references, Tykwer’s latest opus becomes a grand, self-referential spectacle—one that ultimately loses its way.
Jeremy Clarkson and Lisa Hogan: The Age Gap Love Story Behind Clarkson’s Farm
As the third season of Clarkson’s Farm premieres on Amazon Prime Video, viewers once again get an intimate look at the rural adventures of Jeremy Clarkson and his partner, Lisa Hogan, at Diddly Squat Farm. Their relationship has sparked curiosity among fans, particularly regarding the age gap between them.
Lisa Hogan, an Irish former model and actress from Dublin, is currently 50 years old. She attended Alexandra College in Milltown and has built a diverse career, working as a model, artist, and actress. In 1997, she was selected by actor John Cleese to feature in the comedy film Fierce Creatures, marking a significant moment in her career.
Jeremy Clarkson, on the other hand, was born in April 1960 in Doncaster, making him 64 years old. Before becoming a household name, he helped his parents sell Paddington Bear toys—a venture that eventually led to their financial success. His rise to fame as a journalist and television presenter is well documented, with his tenure on Top Gear cementing his reputation as one of Britain’s most recognisable media personalities.
Despite a 14-year age difference, Jeremy and Lisa’s relationship has gone from strength to strength since they were introduced by mutual friends at a party in 2017. While they come from different backgrounds, their shared experiences at Diddly Squat Farm have brought them closer, navigating both the rewards and difficulties of rural life together.
The upcoming season of Clarkson’s Farm sees Lisa facing new hurdles as she takes charge of the farm shop. Land agent Charlie Ireland issues a stark warning about potential legal consequences should she continue selling products from outside a 16-mile radius. The regulation presents a significant challenge to the farm’s business model, and Lisa finds herself at a crossroads.
In a candid admission ahead of the new season, Lisa revealed she was prepared to take a legal risk for the team. “I was willing to take one for the team, literally,” she stated. “You pay so much in business rates and taxes, and then the same system uses that money to fight against you—it doesn’t make sense.”
Despite the obstacles, Lisa remains pragmatic about the situation, acknowledging an unintended benefit from the strict local sourcing rule. “It seems like an odd approach,” she remarked. “But in a way, the council has actually done me a favour. If it weren’t for their restrictions, I wouldn’t have discovered half of my suppliers. I had to dig deep to find businesses within 16 miles, and that’s been a silver lining. But I do think they sometimes overreact.”
With Clarkson’s Farm returning to screens, fans can expect more drama, humour, and insight into the trials and triumphs of life on Diddly Squat Farm. As Jeremy and Lisa continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of farming regulations and business challenges, their partnership remains a central part of the show’s charm.
Robert De Niro Takes on Dual Roles in New Mafia Film The Alto Knights
Hollywood legend Robert De Niro returns to the silver screen in The Alto Knights, portraying two iconic and rival Mafia bosses, Frank Costello and Vito Genovese. Once close friends, their relationship unravels into a ruthless power struggle fueled by jealousy and betrayal, shaking not only New York’s criminal underworld but also the entire nation.
The film is directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson (Rain Man) and penned by Mafia genre veteran Nicholas Pileggi (Goodfellas), promising a gripping narrative with a deep dive into the complexities of loyalty, power, and retribution.
Joining De Niro in the cast are Debra Messing (Will & Grace), Cosmo Jarvis (Shōgun), and Kathrine Narducci (The Irishman), adding depth and talent to the star-studded ensemble.
The Alto Knights is set to premiere in German cinemas on March 20, 2025, with its U.S. release following a day later on March 21. Fans of the Mafia film genre and De Niro’s iconic performances can expect a dramatic, action-packed experience that captures the tension and turmoil of a bygone era.
Tulsa King Season 2: Release Date and How to Watch for Free
Sylvester Stallone is back as Dwight “The General” Manfredi in the much-anticipated second season of Tulsa King. This crime drama, streaming on Paramount+ later this week, sees the legendary actor reprising his role as a Mafia capo from New York’s Invernizzi crime family who finds himself navigating unfamiliar territory after a 25-year prison sentence.
A New Empire in Tulsa
The series follows Dwight’s journey after being exiled by his boss to Tulsa, Oklahoma—a place far removed from the criminal underworld he once knew. Tasked with establishing operations in this foreign environment, Dwight soon realises his mob family may not have his best interests at heart. Determined to build his own empire, he assembles a ragtag crew of unlikely allies, creating a new criminal operation from scratch.
Season two picks up with Dwight and his team continuing to expand and protect their growing empire. However, their success attracts new adversaries. With threats from the Kansas City mob and a formidable local businessman, Dwight faces mounting pressure to protect his crew and family while juggling the complexities of his rising empire.
Record-Breaking Success
The first season of Tulsa King was a major hit for Paramount+, drawing in 3.7 million viewers for its premiere episode. The show also drove a record-breaking number of new subscriptions to the platform, solidifying its status as one of Paramount’s standout productions.
The Creative Minds Behind the Series
Created by Taylor Sheridan, the mastermind behind the widely acclaimed Yellowstone, Tulsa King brings together a dynamic cast and sharp storytelling. Stallone not only stars in the series but has also co-written several episodes of the new season, marking his first leading role in a television series.
The cast includes Annabella Sciorra, Tatiana Zappardino, Andrea Savage, Martin Starr, Max Casella, Domenick Lombardozzi, Vincent Piazza, Jay Will, Garrett Hedlund, and Dana Delany. Together, they bring a mix of talent that adds depth and intrigue to the series.
How to Watch Season 2
Fans eager to dive back into Dwight’s world can catch the new season exclusively on Paramount+. While subscription fees apply, the streaming service often offers free trial periods, allowing new users to enjoy the latest episodes without immediate cost.
With its gripping storyline, standout performances, and escalating tension, season two of Tulsa King promises to deliver more of the action and drama that made the first season a hit. Don’t miss the return of this compelling crime saga.
Love Island Fans Outraged as 2024 Winners Spark ‘Fix’ Claims
After seven weeks of dramatic twists, emotional recouplings, and surprising eliminations, Love Island crowned its 2024 champions in a gripping finale aired on Monday, July 26. The series, which has kept fans glued to their screens, concluded with Josh and Mimii taking home the title, leaving a mixed reaction among the show’s loyal audience.
A Tense Finale
In the highly anticipated final episode, presenter Maya Jama narrowed the field to the last two couples: Josh and Mimii, and Ciaran and Nicole. As suspense filled the air, Jama announced Josh and Mimii as the winners, sparking joy for the pair and their fellow contestants. The duo, visibly overwhelmed by the result, celebrated with hugs from the other finalists in an emotional conclusion to the season.
However, the reaction among fans was far from unanimous. Social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, was flooded with comments from viewers expressing frustration over the outcome. Many accused the show of being “rigged,” claiming the final result did not reflect the public’s preference. The backlash underscored the deep investment fans have in the series and its outcome.
Fans Look Ahead Despite Controversy
Although the finale has divided opinion, the end of the season doesn’t mean Love Island fans will have to wait long for more drama. ITV2 has announced that Love Island: All Stars will return in January 2025, giving fans just six months to prepare for the next chapter.
The upcoming All Stars season promises to bring back some of the most memorable contestants from the show’s eleven-series history. ITV2 teased the return of the hit spin-off earlier this year, stating: “Offering some of the show’s most iconic singletons another chance at love, the series will return to its all-star home in South Africa.”
Mike Spencer, Creative Director at Lifted Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the show’s continued evolution: “Celebrating a decade of Love Island with another all-star class of Islanders feels like the perfect way to honour the legacy of the nation’s favourite dating show. We’re looking forward to delivering another vintage year of romance, drama, and unforgettable moments.”
A Look Back at All Stars
The inaugural season of Love Island: All Stars, which aired earlier this year, saw Molly Smith and Tom Clare crowned as its champions. The success of the spin-off series has only heightened expectations for its return in January.
While fans may still be reeling from the 2024 finale, the announcement of All Stars provides a glimmer of excitement for what’s to come. As Love Island prepares to celebrate its tenth anniversary, its ability to captivate and stir emotions remains as strong as ever.
Monty Don Reflects on a Heartfelt Moment from His Past
Monty Don, the beloved 69-year-old presenter of BBC Gardeners’ World, recently opened up about a poignant memory from his younger years. He described a deeply emotional moment shared with his wife, Sarah, as they drove past a field of barley, which evoked a powerful sense of nostalgia.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Monty recalled a childhood experience that left a lasting impression. At just seven years old, he returned home from boarding school to discover that the family garden had “burst into flower.” He likened the sensation to missing Christmas—a bittersweet realization, though not necessarily a sense of loss.
Years later, during his twenties, a simple drive through the countryside reignited this childhood memory. Reflecting on the moment, Monty shared: “Sarah and I were driving out of London towards Kent, passing a field full of barley. Barley has a unique way of rippling in the wind, unlike wheat, which tends to rustle. That subtle difference transported me back to my childhood in Hampshire.”
He continued: “The sight triggered an intense homesickness. My whole childhood felt tied to the ripple of barley in the fields. Realizing that this idyllic period, the good parts of it, was forever gone was utterly heartbreaking.”
Monty went on to reflect on the contrasting emotions tied to different aspects of his upbringing. While the barley fields symbolized a cherished connection to his home, he had less fond memories of his boarding school years. He described the landscape around the school as dominated by “dark, dull, horrible” rhododendrons, pines, and heathers—plants he associated with unpleasant times. In stark contrast, his home was adorned with beautiful beeches and fragrant lilacs, which he still remembers fondly.
As he looked back, Monty candidly acknowledged that his teenage years were far from idyllic. Speaking to the Mirror, he admitted that flowers and gardening were not part of his adolescence. Instead, he described those years as filled with “sex, drugs, and rock and roll.” He even revealed that he was expelled from several schools during this rebellious period of his life.
This blend of heartfelt nostalgia and candid honesty offers a glimpse into the life of the much-loved gardening expert, whose passion for nature seems rooted in both the highs and lows of his formative years.