At San Diego Comic-Con 2026, Ryan Reynolds surprised fans. The actor appeared in his Deadpool costume and staged a tongue-in-cheek "intervention" as the new Marvel movie "Avengers: Doomsday" was promoted to the fans in attendance.

Among the stars on stage was Robert Downey Jr., who once played Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, and is now returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the villain Doctor Doom. Meanwhile, the masked Reynolds mingled with the audience. An interesting detail: The Hollywood star wasn't wearing the usual red Deadpool outfit, but a gray version reminiscent of the look from the "Uncanny X-Force" comics. Reynolds grabbed a microphone and said to the stars on stage:

"This seems like an awfully expensive way to announce a film. When do you start filming?"

Downey Jr. replied just as ironically:

"It's in the can, bro. Look around you. Did you bump your head?"

Doomsday: A massive star-studded cast

Of course, this back-and-forth is anything but serious. Still, it's likely to further fuel the rumors that have been circulating for some time now about a supposed appearance by Deadpool in "Avengers: Doomsday" (in theaters December 18, 2026).

That said, the film has more than enough star power to offer even without Reynolds. Alongside Robert Downey Jr., the cast includes Chris Hemsworth, Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Letitia Wright, Paul Rudd, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Simu Liu, Florence Pugh, Kelsey Grammer, Joseph Quinn, David Harbour, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn, James Marsden, Channing Tatum, and Chris Evans. You can watch the first trailer for "Avengers: Doomsday" here:

A heartfelt Comic-Con clip from Ryan Reynolds

In addition to his humorous appearance, Reynolds also delighted his fans in other ways. At Comic-Con, he posed for photos with various attendees who had also gone all out with their costumes. He shared some highlights in a social media clip set to the Green Day song "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" and wrote:

"The fans got Deadpool off the ground so many years ago. Yesterday, 10 years after the first film and exactly 2 years after Deadpool & Wolverine, I felt so lucky to be on the #SDCC floor with everyone whose unapologetic devotion brings so much joy to this world."

What Reynolds says about the future of Deadpool

And what about another "Deadpool" movie? So far, no sequel is on the horizon. Recently, however, Reynolds spoke out on the matter – with a statement that offers hope. At this year's Fanatics Fest, the actor who plays Deadpool explained that the source material from the comics is far from exhausted – and announced that there will be another movie at some point. However, there has been no official confirmation of his statement. Especially since Reynolds spoke about the future of the popular hero a while ago, emphasizing that Deadpool will likely appear more as a supporting character in the future. So what can we expect: guest appearances in other Marvel movies? Or a new solo adventure after all? It will be interesting to see how Deadpool's future unfolds.

At the box office, the Marvel character played by Ryan Reynolds has certainly proven to be an extremely lucrative blockbuster hero. The first film, released in 2016 and directed by Tim Miller, grossed $782 million at the global box office. Two years later, David Leitch took the helm for "Deadpool 2," which grossed $785 million. But the biggest hit was yet to come, when Deadpool was paired in the third film with one of the most popular Marvel heroes of all time: the X-Men member Wolverine. Directed by Shawn Levy, the duo took the big screen by storm in 2024, with "Deadpool & Wolverine" ultimately raking in a staggering $1.3 billion. No wonder, then, that there is constant talk of another "Deadpool" movie.

Comic-Con 2026 is over, and it had a few surprises in store for Marvel fans. Of course, the main focus was on the upcoming blockbuster "Avengers: Doomsday". Although the first trailer was released just before Comic-Con, the Marvel panel took it a step further: The live audience got to see a brand-new "Doomsday" trailer!

As of now, the new trailer hasn't been released to the general public yet. However, thanks to numerous reports, word has already gotten out about what the new footage shows. In addition, a new poster featuring Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.) was unveiled during Comic-Con.

What can be seen in the new Doomsday trailer?

The new trailer focuses primarily on Doctor Doom. While the new major MCU villain is shown sitting on a throne, we hear Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) talk about his backstory.

"Victor was always the smartest guy in the room. He used to be different. He used to be kind, he used to be caring. Everything he loved was taken from him. I knew he was lost, but I did not realise that he was broken."

Alongside this voice-over, we get to see a large number of MCU heroes, including, Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), Loki (Tom Hiddleston), Black Panther (Letitia Wright), Shang-Chi (Simu Liu), Cyclops (James Marsden), Magneto (Ian McKellen), and Gambit (Channing Tatum). We then also hear Doctor Doom's voice:

"All of you have lived stolen lives. Now you must give them back."

Just like in the first trailer, we get a glimpse of the duel between Doom and Thor (Chris Hemsworth). We hear the two of them speak:

Thor: "I swear you will beg for hell long before I grant it."

Doctor Doom: "Hell answers to me, for I am Doom."

Meanwhile, Doom assembles an entire army of Sentinels behind him, which Marvel fans may recognize from the "X-Men" franchise.

We hope the Comic-Con trailer will soon be released to a wider audience. As soon as it's available, you'll of course find it right away in the KinoCheck app and on our YouTube channel. Until then, you can revisit all previous teasers and trailers in our compilation.

Deadpool in Avengers: Doomsday?

Meanwhile, Ryan Reynolds has sparked fresh speculation. The actor hid among the audience at the Comic-Con panel while dressed in full Deadpool gear. Reynolds jokingly asked the cast and crew members in attendance when filming for "Doomsday" would begin.

There has long been speculation online about whether or not Deadpool will appear in "Doomsday." With his appearance at Comic-Con, he's now further fueling these rumors. We may not have definitive answers until the movie's theatrical release. "Avengers: Doomsday" hits the big screen on December 18, 2026. You can watch Reynolds' appearance here:

Ryan Reynolds to Play Ghost Rider

However, Marvel's presence at Comic-Con was not focused solely on "Doomsday". Arguably the biggest news of the event: Superstar Ryan Gosling is taking on the lead role in the new "Ghost Rider"! The actor announced this himself. The film will be directed by "Deadpool & Wolverine" director Shawn Levy. You can find all further details here.

Black Panther 3: David Jonsson Cast as T'Challa's Son

Another major announcement concerns "Black Panther 3": "Alien: Romulus" star David Jonsson has been cast as T'Challa's son. He'll be following in the footsteps of Chadwick Boseman. The U.S. release date has been set for December 15, 2028. Ryan Coogler, who directed the first "Black Panther" as well as the sequel "Wakanda Forever," will return to direct. Coogler shared some details about "Black Panther 3" at Comic-Con, which you can read about here. In this short video, you can also see how David Jonsson is introduced as T'Challa's son.

San Diego Comic-Con 2026 once again delivered all kinds of exciting trailers. In addition to new series like "Blade Runner 2099" and "Carrie," there were also first glimpses of the third season of "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power," as well as new movies like "Ebenezer" starring Johnny Depp and "Matchbox: The Movie" starring John Cena. Below, we'll show you the best trailers from SDCC, which took place this year from July 23 to 26.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power – Season 3

Fans only have to wait a few more months until the new episodes of the "Lord of the Rings" series finally premiere. November 11, 2026, is the big day: that's when Season 3 of "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" will debut on Prime Video. Unlike Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" films, the events of the series take place thousands of years earlier: during the Second Age of Middle-earth. The story follows the creation of the titular rings and the rise of the villain Sauron. The third season of "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" is set to take place several years after the events of Season Two – at the height of the war between the Elves and Sauron. As announced at San Diego Comic-Con, Simon Pegg – known for his roles in the "Star Trek" and "Mission: Impossible" films, among others – will lend his voice to Balrog. The creature already played an important role in Jackson's adaptation – and thanks to Pegg, we'll now hear its voice for the first time. But first, check out the atmospheric trailer to get a first glimpse of the third season:

Blade Runner 2099

"Blade Runner 2099" is undoubtedly one of the trailer highlights from SDCC. As the title suggests, the sci-fi series takes place 50 years after the last film, "Blade Runner 2049. " The lead roles are played by Michelle Yeoh and Hunter Schafer. Showrunner Silka Luisa described the setting to Entertainment Weekly in the following words:

"There's been a replicant uprising that feels like it's been bubbling up. And between 2049 and 2099, that's happened. So the war has happened and the humans have lost. Our worst fears imagined. The replicants are now the power brokers of the city. And humans are the second-class citizens."

You'll find out how it all unfolds in a few months on Prime Video. The release date has been set for November 25, 2026. You can watch the first trailer for "Blade Runner 2049" here:

Carrie

With "Carrie," Prime Video will soon be launching another highly anticipated series. This reimagining of Stephen King's cult novel comes from Mike Flanagan, who most recently wrote and directed the King adaptation "The Life of Chuck." For "Carrie," he took a surprising approach: In addition to the titular protagonist, we'll also get to know other women over the course of the episodes who apparently possess supernatural abilities as well. The first season will explore the nature of Carrie's connection to these other characters. The series is set to premiere on October 7, 2026, on Prime Video. The trailer gives you a glimpse of what to expect:

Ebenezer

Things have been a bit quiet for Johnny Depp on the big screen in recent years. Now he's returning in "Ebenezer." In director Ti West's new film, he plays Ebenezer Scrooge, the famous character from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." The film will be in theaters starting November 13, 2026. You can get a sneak peek at how Johnny Depp fares in the role in the trailer:

Matchbox: The Movie

Things are going to get fast-paced in "Matchbox: The Movie." The film is set to premiere on Apple TV on October 9, 2026. As the title suggests, this action comedy from director Sam Hargrave is based on the well-known toy cars. The main cast includes John Cena and Jessica Biel. The question, however, is: How on earth can you turn a toy car concept into an engaging story? The trailer gives a hint of the direction the film is taking:

Lanterns

Things are getting exciting in the new trailer for "Lanterns." In this series reimagining of the classic DC superhero Green Lantern, Kyle Chandler stars as Hal Jordan. At his side is Aaron Pierre as John Stewart – who thus embodies yet another alter ego of Green Lantern. What we're especially excited about: Nathan Fillion also makes an appearance in the trailer as Guy Gardner. He previously played this role in director James Gunn's "Superman" film adaptation – which was pretty funny. You can see how he fares in "Lanterns" starting August 16, 2026, on HBO Max. The trailer offers a sneak peek:

Reacher – Season 4

"Reacher" will soon return for Season 4. The new episodes premiere on August 12, 2026, on Prime Video. This time, the title character, Jack Reacher, is set to face ruthless adversaries from the highest echelons of power. Here's the trailer for Season 4:

Neuromancer

A very special highlight of SDCC for us is the trailer for "Neuromancer." The new sci-fi series starring Callum Turner is based on the classic 1984 cyberpunk novel of the same name by William Gibson. It'll be a while before it premieres on Apple TV – the series is set to launch on January 22, 2027. That makes it all the more exciting that we're already getting a first glimpse through the trailer. It's only about a minute long, but it's already got us wanting more. But see for yourself:

The new Black Panther in the MCU has been confirmed! At this year's Comic-Con, it was revealed that "The Long Walk" star David Jonsson will portray T'Challa's son in "Black Panther 3", following in the footsteps of Chadwick Boseman.

Director Ryan Coogler also revealed further plot details on stage. According to him, T'Challa II will be seen in the new film as a young adult and will lay claim to the throne of Wakanda. This shifts the focus of the story not only to his journey as a hero but also to the struggle for the kingdom's future. Furthermore, Coogler announced that "Black Panther 3" will be shot entirely on large-format celluloid film – a first for the MCU.

It had already been revealed that Denzel Washington would take on a role in the third installment. However, Marvel is still keeping the exact character a secret. We'll also see Letitia Wright return as Shuri and Winston Duke as M'Baku. Incidentally, both are also part of "Avengers: Doomsday", which hits theaters here on December 18. The theatrical release of "Black Panther 3", on the other hand, is scheduled for December 15, 2028. We can't wait!

The Significance of the Black Panther Films for the Superhero Genre

With "Black Panther" (2018) and "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" (2022), Marvel has created two films that have had a lasting impact on the superhero genre. While both films tell classic hero stories, they also go far beyond what many previous comic book adaptations have offered. They combine spectacular action with emotional narratives, social themes, and unique world-building. As a result, these two films are now among the most significant contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

A New Take on Superheroes

Even the first "Black Panther" set new standards. At its center was T'Challa, a hero who had to take responsibility for his people not only as a warrior but also as a king. Unlike many other superheroes, he didn't just fight a powerful adversary – he also had to make difficult political decisions.

His adversary, Erik Killmonger, also helped set the film apart from many others in the genre. His motivations were relatable and ensured that the story wasn't just about good versus evil. These moral gray areas added depth to the film and made it one of Marvel's strongest productions.

Wakanda as the Heart of the MCU

With Wakanda, Marvel also created one of the most fascinating worlds in the entire MCU. The fictional African kingdom impressed audiences with its blend of modern technology and traditional values. Thanks to the rare metal Vibranium, Wakanda quickly became one of the most important settings within the Marvel Universe.

Visually, too, the film set new standards. The architecture, costumes, and music drew inspiration from various African cultures, giving the film a distinctive style. As a result, "Black Panther" stood out clearly from many other superhero films, which often rely on well-known cities like New York or fictional metropolises.

A Milestone for Representation

A key reason for its success was the authentic portrayal of African culture and the predominantly Black cast. Hollywood had rarely produced blockbusters of this magnitude with such a diverse ensemble before.

"Black Panther" impressively demonstrated that diverse stories can captivate audiences of millions worldwide. The film grossed more than $1.3 billion and became the first superhero movie ever to be nominated for an Oscar in the "Best Picture" category. In doing so, it also made a significant statement beyond the superhero genre.

The series took on special significance following the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman in 2020. The actor, who portrayed T'Challa in four Marvel films, passed away at the age of just 43 from cancer. Marvel made a conscious decision not to recast the role and instead incorporated Boseman's legacy into the plot of "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever".

Wakanda Forever as an Emotional Legacy

The sequel faced an extraordinary challenge. "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" addresses themes such as grief, loss, and responsibility in a way that is rarely seen in the superhero genre. The story centers on Shuri, who not only has to come to terms with the loss of her brother but must also learn to take on responsibility for Wakanda herself. It was precisely this emotional depth that made the film particularly impactful for many viewers. The story felt more personal and serious than many other Marvel adventures.

Strong Characters Define the Series

In addition to T'Challa and Shuri, the series stood out above all for its supporting characters. Characters like Okoye, Nakia, Queen Ramonda, and M'Baku quickly became audience favorites and helped bring Wakanda to life. Particularly noteworthy are the strong female characters who play pivotal roles in both films. They are leaders, scientists, or warriors and play a decisive role in shaping the plot. In this way, the films expanded the superhero genre with new perspectives without ever feeling contrived.

A Lasting Impact on the Genre

The two "Black Panther" films have shown that superhero movies can be much more than just action-packed entertainment. They combine thrilling stories with emotional depth, believable characters, and an extraordinary world that clearly sets them apart from other comic book adaptations. Furthermore, they have significantly expanded the Marvel Cinematic Universe and made Wakanda one of its most important settings. Many characters from the series now play a central role within the MCU and will continue to be significant in future films.

What a surprise: There's going to be a new "Ghost Rider." And the lead actor has already been cast: Hollywood star Ryan Gosling will take on the role of the Marvel hero, as announced at San Diego Comic-Con 2026. But that's not all. A director has already been named: Shawn Levy. We'll have to wait for an exact release date, but the release year has also been announced: it's set for 2028.

During the Marvel panel at Comic-Con, Gosling didn't miss the chance to take the stage himself. As expected, this sparked cheers from the fans in the audience. He told them:

"As you know, this is a character I've wanted to play for a very long time."

Not just Ghost Rider: Ryan Gosling is also filming Star Wars with Shawn Levy

There had been speculation for some time that Gosling was eyeing the role of Ghost Rider. What were previously just rumors, however, has now become a dream come true for many fans.

But the new Marvel movie isn't the only major franchise project Gosling is currently tackling. Nor is it the only one he's filming with Shawn Levy. Under Levy's direction, Gosling is also playing the lead role in "Star Wars: Starfighter." The new big-screen adventure from a galaxy far, far away hits theaters on May 28, 2027.

Ryan Gosling follows in the footsteps of Nicolas Cage

As for "Ghost Rider," Gosling is taking on the role of a decades-old comic book hero. He first appeared in August 1972 in issue #5 of the "Marvel Spotlight" series. The popular Marvel character is stunt rider Johnny Blaze, who makes a pact with the devil. This transforms him into the motorcycle-riding being with a flaming skull.

Gosling won't be the first to play the character on the big screen. Back in 2007, Nicolas Cage starred as Johnny Blaze, aka Ghost Rider, in a film directed and written by Mark Steven Johnson. Alongside Cage, the cast included Eva Mendes, Wes Bentley, Sam Elliott, Donal Logue, and Peter Fonda. With a budget of about $110 million, the film grossed $228 million at the global box office – so its success was limited given the expenses.

Further appearances by Ghost Rider

Nevertheless, another film adaptation starring Cage followed. In "Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance"(2011), he once again took on the role of the Marvel hero. There was a change in the director's chair, however: This time, Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor were responsible for directing. The screenplay was written by Scott M. Gimple, Seth Hoffman, and David S. Goyer. The cast included Ciarán Hinds, Violante Placido, Johnny Whitworth, Christopher Lambert, and Idris Elba. With a budget of 57 million, "Spirit of Vengeance" was significantly cheaper than its predecessor. However, its worldwide box office take of 132 million was also less than impressive.

Ghost Rider made a comeback five years later in "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." In the Marvel TV series, Gabriel Luna portrayed Ghost Rider for several episodes, though he played Robbie Reyes, a different incarnation of the hero.

With Gosling, Marvel has now pulled off a major coup. The actor enjoys immense popularity and, most recently as the lead in "Project Hail Mary," has once again proven just how much of a draw his name is at the box office. The science-fiction blockbuster directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller proved to be a hit. The film grossed $684 million worldwide. It remains to be seen whether Gosling will also bring in the cash as Ghost Rider. In any case, we're already looking forward to his performance as the fiery Marvel hero.

The release date for the Snoop Dogg biopic "Snoop" has finally been set! As reported by Deadline magazine, Universal Pictures will release the film in theaters on August 6, 2027.

"Snoop" focuses on the career of Snoop Dogg, who rose from a young rapper from Long Beach to become a major figure in the international music and entertainment industry. The biopic will not only explore his breakthrough in gangsta rap but also show how he established himself over the years as an entrepreneur, entertainer, and pop culture icon.

Craig Brewer has been tapped to direct; he has already gained experience in the music and drama genres with films such as "Hustle & Flow" and "Song Sung Blue". Jonathan Daviss, who is best known to a wide audience for his role in the Netflix series "Outer Banks", will take on the lead role.

From 2Pac to Eminem: An Overview of the Most Famous Rap Biopics

Hardly any other music genre has had such a lasting impact on pop culture over the past decades as hip-hop. The stories of many rappers read like classic Hollywood screenplays: difficult childhoods, a life caught between poverty and crime, the dream of musical success, and finally the rise to global superstardom. So it's no wonder that Hollywood keeps trying to bring these extraordinary life stories to the big screen. Some rap biopics have become real box-office hits and are now among the most important music films of all time. With the announced Snoop Dogg biopic, this success story is likely to continue soon.

8 Mile: Eminem's Path to Superstardom

It wasn't the first rap biopic, but it was certainly one of the best known. "8 Mile" was released in 2002 and is loosely based on Eminem's own life story. The story centers on Jimmy "B-Rabbit" Smith Jr., who wants to prove himself as a rapper in Detroit's troubled neighborhoods.

Although many plot elements are fictional, they reflect numerous experiences that Eminem himself had on his way to the top of the music industry. In particular, the legendary rap battles and the Oscar-winning song "Lose Yourself" made the film a classic. To this day, "8 Mile" is considered one of the most authentic hip-hop films ever made.

Get Rich or Die Tryin': Tells the Story of 50 Cent

Just a few years later, 50 Cent also got his own film adaptation. The 2005 film "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" is heavily based on the rapper's biography, and he plays the lead role himself in the film.

The story follows Marcus Greer, whose life bears striking parallels to that of Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. The film depicts his difficult daily life in New York, his entanglement in crime, and ultimately his path into the music world. Particularly impressive is the depiction of the events surrounding the shooting in which 50 Cent was shot multiple times – a pivotal moment in his life that later became almost a legend in his career.

Although "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" received mixed reviews from critics, the film quickly became an integral part of hip-hop culture and remains hugely popular with fans to this day.

"Straight Outta Compton" Set New Standards

When "Straight Outta Compton" was released in 2015, the film elevated the rap biopic genre to a new level. It tells the story of the legendary group N.W.A., consisting of Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, MC Ren, and DJ Yella. The film depicts not only the group's meteoric rise but also their conflicts with the police, politicians, and the music industry. At the same time, it authentically portrays the tensions within the band and their business disputes.

With worldwide box office receipts of over $200 million, "Straight Outta Compton" became one of the most successful hip-hop films of all time and impressively demonstrated that rap biopics can also reach a broad mainstream audience.

Tupac and The Notorious B.I.G.

Hardly any other artists shaped 1990s hip-hop as much as Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. – and both were the subject of their own feature films. As early as 2009, "Notorious" was released, chronicling the life of Christopher Wallace. The film follows Biggie Smalls from his days as a young rapper in Brooklyn through his meteoric rise, while also exploring the legendary feud between the East and West Coasts of the U.S. rap scene.

This was followed in 2017 by "All Eyez on Me", the official biopic about 2Pac. The film tells his story from childhood through his breakthrough as a musician and actor to his death in 1996, which remains unexplained to this day. The film also sheds light on his political beliefs, his close ties to the Black Panther movement, his family, and the numerous controversies that marked his career. Although the film received mixed reviews from critics, for many fans it was the first major cinematic portrayal of the life of one of the most significant rap icons of all time.

More Than Just Music Films

What sets many rap biopics apart is that they go far beyond music. They address social inequality, racism, police violence, and the difficult living conditions in major American cities. As a result, they often serve as historical documents that closely link the emergence of hip-hop to the social realities of their era. Films like "Straight Outta Compton", "All Eyez on Me", and "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" in particular show just how closely personal destinies and social developments are intertwined.

With Snoop Dogg, the next biopic is already in the works

Given the success of earlier rap biopics, expectations are correspondingly high. After all, Snoop Dogg's career offers plenty of material for an exciting film adaptation – from his early days alongside Dr. Dre to his status as a global pop culture icon.

Rap biopics have long since established themselves as an integral part of the music film genre. They combine rousing music with moving life stories and offer insights into the rise of some of the most influential artists in modern music history. With every new film adaptation, not only does the genre itself grow, but so does hip-hop's cinematic legacy.

Christopher Nolan has reason to celebrate: In addition to the successful theatrical release of his new blockbuster "The Odyssey," he has now been named the most powerful director in Hollywood. The filmmaker ranks No. 1 in the latest Top 100 ranking by Vulture.

Agents, executives, producers, publicists, and journalists were consulted to compile the list of the most powerful directors. The evaluation criteria include body of work, commercial bankability, creative control, reputation, and future potential. The list focuses on Hollywood filmmakers. Additionally, directors who primarily work in the world of television are not included.

It's not all that surprising that Nolan has secured the top spot on such a list. The director has been a sure bet at the box office for years and consistently delights both audiences and critics alike. The same is true of his latest film: With "The Odyssey", the director delivered the most successful release of his career. The highly acclaimed film adaptation of Homer's 3,000-year-old epic grossed $264.1 million worldwide on its opening weekend.

Nolan instead of a franchise

Hardly any other director has a name as magnetic as Nolan's. With him, virtually any subject matter currently becomes a celebrated blockbuster – whether the focus is on an ancient hero like Odysseus, a superhero like Batman, or a physicist like Oppenheimer. This likely has something to do with the fact that audiences tend not to go to the movies to see the latest Oppenheimer film, but rather the latest Nolan film. To put it bluntly, one could say that Nolan has become the equivalent of a franchise.

Another director about whom one could say the same is Quentin Tarantino. He was most recently on the big screen with "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" and also made it into Vulture's ranking. However, he "only" came in at No. 5, which – despite his star power – is likely due in part to the fact that the film was released seven years ago. Second place, meanwhile, goes to Ryan Coogler, who caused a sensation at this year's Oscars with "Sinners." The vampire film made history with 16 nominations – no other film had ever been in the running for so many Academy Awards. In the end, it won four Oscars, including Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan. In third place is Denis Villeneuve, who most recently impressed audiences with his visually stunning "Dune" adaptations.

Barbie director Greta Gerwig in the Top 10

The first female director in the ranking is in fourth place: Greta Gerwig. Three years ago, the filmmaker scored a massive box-office hit with her "Barbie" adaptation, which sparked a lot of conversation. Overall, only a few other female directors appear on the Top 100 list. In addition to Gerwig, the ranking includes Emerald Fennell (No. 18, she most recently directed "Wuthering Heights"), Chloé Zhao (No. 46, "Hamnet"), Gina Prince-Bythewood (No. 60, "The Woman King"), Kathryn Bigelow (No. 80, "A House of Dynamite"), Celine Song (No. 87, "Materialists"), Olivia Wilde (No. 92, "The Invite"), Nia DaCosta (No. 94, "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple"), and Maggie Gyllenhaal (No. 99, "The Bride!").

In spots 6, 7, and 8 are three directors who have been drawing audiences to theaters for decades: James Cameron ("Avatar: Fire and Ash"), Steven Spielberg ("Disclosure Day"), and Martin Scorsese ("Killers of the Flower Moon"). Rounding out the top 10 are Jordan Peele, who has made a name for himself primarily as the director of horror films like "Nope," and Paul Thomas Anderson, a long-time critics' favorite who was particularly celebrated this year. The reason: "One Battle After Another." The film, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, emerged as the big winner at this year's Oscars. It took home a total of six awards at the ceremony, including Best Picture, as well as awards for director and screenwriter Paul Thomas Anderson. This success certainly contributed to his making it into the top 10 of the most powerful Hollywood directors.

Update: The trailer is here! The release date has also been revealed: November 25, 2026.

"Blade Runner 2099" has been in development at Prime Video for a long time, but now things are finally taking shape: The first images from the sci-fi series have been released via Entertainment Weekly! At the same time, showrunner Silka Luisa spoke with the magazine about the plot, the characters, and the setting. It looks like the premiere date will be sooner than expected! And the first trailer could be released soon as well...

Here's what Blade Runner 2099 is about

The details about the plot are particularly exciting. Fifty years after "Blade Runner 2049," dystopian Los Angeles has changed. The showrunner describes the setting in the following words:

"There's been a replicant uprising that feels like it's been bubbling up. And between 2049 and 2099, that's happened. So the war has happened and the humans have lost. Our worst fears imagined. The replicants are now the power brokers of the city. And humans are the second-class citizens."

The Characters and the Story

The first images feature the two lead actresses, Michelle Yeoh and Hunter Schafer. Yeoh plays a replicant named Olwen.

"She is hunting down a group of missing rogue replicants. She's in the final days of her life, so she knows she has only days left to live because replicants know down to the day when they're gonna die."

Hunter Schafer plays her partner, Cora, who, unlike Olwen, is human. She has long been on the run from replicants and is now posing as a replicant herself. In doing so, however, she has lost her humanity. A key question of the series is therefore: "Once you've lost her humanity, can you regain it?" You can view the images here:

The Background and Central Theme

"Blade Runner 2099" is intended to draw not only on the two previous films but also on Philip K. Dick's novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" Luisa describes the series' central theme as follows:

"The show is really imagining what comes after us, and what does it mean to be human in a world where humanity is no longer relevant?"

The creators also aim to make good use of the series format. After all, compared to a movie, there's more time to tell the story. "Blade Runner 2099" will use this time to delve deeper into the world-building, mythology, and history of the "Blade Runner" universe.

The Blade Runner Movies

Ridley Scott laid the foundation for this universe back in 1982 with his cult classic "Blade Runner." The neo-noir sci-fi classic tells the story of Blade Runner Rick Deckard, who is tasked with tracking down and "retiring" rogue replicants in a futuristic Los Angeles. At the same time, the film poses fundamental questions about identity, memory, and the meaning of being human.

Thirty-five years later, Denis Villeneuve continued the story with "Blade Runner 2049." The film centers on Blade Runner K, whose investigations lead him on the trail of a secret that could shake the existing world order to its core. The sequel delved deeper into the philosophical themes of the original and is now considered one of the most successful sci-fi sequels ever made.

Ridley Scott and Blade Runner 2099

Both "2049" screenwriter Michael Green and Ridley Scott himself were involved in the development process of "Blade Runner 2099." Both are on board as producers for "2099." Luisa explains:

"It was really important for Ridley to be a part of the development process. Because both visually and in terms of story, there are mythological canon points in his film that we're touching, and it was really important to both get his blessing and have his insight into what his original intentions were."

When will Blade Runner 2099 be released?

A 2027 release was previously mentioned, but the series will now premiere sooner than expected. "Blade Runner 2099" is set to debut on Amazon Prime Video in 2026. A specific release date has not yet been announced.

However, a teaser or trailer may be coming soon. A panel has been announced for July 24 at San Diego Comic-Con. A trailer release seems quite realistic in this context. If the first trailer does indeed come out, you'll of course find it immediately in the KinoCheck app and on our YouTube channel.

Netflix has finally started filming "Extraction 3"! Lead actor Chris Hemsworth himself announced the official start of production. On his Instagram account, the actor posted a photo showing him on set with Idris Elba and director Sam Hargrave. He captioned it simply: "E3, here we go!"

In addition to Chris Hemsworth and Idris Elba, Golshifteh Farahani is also returning in her role as Nik Khan. While Netflix is keeping official plot details under wraps for now, the story is said to pick up directly where "Extraction 2" left off.

In that film, Idris Elba's character made an unusual offer to Tyler Rake and his team: freedom in exchange for carrying out dangerous missions. It is precisely this storyline that is likely to continue in the third installment, once again leading Tyler on life-threatening missions around the globe. Although a specific release date has not yet been announced, the series is currently expected to premiere sometime in 2027.

In addition to "Extraction 3", a number of other projects from the franchise of the same name are in the works. In late 2025, Netflix officially announced the spin-off "TYGO". Don Lee, Lee Jin-wook, and Lalisa Manobal will star in the lead roles. The story centers on a mercenary who embarks on a brutal quest for revenge in South Korea's criminal underworld. Additionally, a series titled "Mercenary: An Extraction Series" is currently in development, starring Omar Sy.

Extraction 1 & 2 Recap: Here's What's Happened So Far (Spoilers)

Spoiler alert! The following recap contains key plot points and the ending of "Extraction" (2020) and "Extraction 2" (2023). With "Extraction" in 2020, Netflix laid the foundation for one of the streaming service's most successful action series. Directed by former stunt coordinator Sam Hargrave and produced by the Russo brothers, the film stood out above all for its no-holds-barred action, spectacular long takes, and a charismatic Chris Hemsworth in the lead role. Three years later, "Extraction 2" continued the story and took the action to an even higher level. But what were the two films actually about?

Extraction (2020): A Rescue Mission Turns into a Fight for Survival

The first film centers on Tyler Rake, a former Australian SASR soldier and elite mercenary who, following the tragic death of his son, leads a life without any real prospects. When he's assigned the task of rescuing Ovi Mahajan – the kidnapped son of an Indian drug lord – from a rival crime syndicate in Bangladesh, it initially seems like just another routine mission.

Although the rescue is initially successful, the situation escalates shortly thereafter. The client withdraws his support due to a lack of funds, leaving Tyler and Ovi suddenly on their own. At the same time, the powerful gangster Amir Asif sets all police forces and numerous mercenaries on the two of them. Dhaka turns into a massive battlefield.

Particularly memorable is the famous car chase through the city streets, which appears to have been shot in a single take. To this day, it remains one of the most impressive action sequences in a Netflix production.

As Tyler and Ovi grow closer and closer, a father-son dynamic develops between them. Tyler sees in the boy memories of his late son and is ultimately willing to sacrifice his own life to save him. In the finale, Tyler is seriously wounded and, after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, falls from a bridge into the river. Ovi manages to escape and eventually reaches his family safely. The ending initially left it open as to whether Tyler survived the fall. However, a brief scene at the very end hinted that he might still be alive.

Extraction 2 (2023): The Return of Tyler Rake

The second installment answers fans' most pressing question within the first few minutes: Tyler did indeed survive the fall. After a long recovery, he is contacted by a mysterious man – played by Idris Elba – who offers him a new mission. Tyler is tasked with rescuing his former sister-in-law, Ketevan, and her children from a heavily guarded Georgian prison. They are being held there alongside the head of a brutal criminal syndicate. What begins as a covert rescue mission quickly escalates into a relentless chase.

"Extraction 2" surpasses its predecessor, particularly in its action sequences. At the heart of the film is a roughly 21-minute single-take sequence that weaves together prison fights, an escape on a moving train, and a spectacular helicopter assault. The elaborate production was praised by critics and fans alike. As the story unfolds, Tyler and his team find themselves targeted by Zurab, the brother of the slain gangster boss. Zurab is out for revenge and stops at nothing to take Tyler down. Several brutal confrontations ensue, culminating in a final showdown in which Tyler defeats Zurab.

Good news for all Sacha Baron Cohen fans: A new Ali G movie titled "Ali G: Who Iz I?" is on the way – and a release date has finally been revealed. Via Instagram, Cohen, as Ali G, announced that the new movie will hit theaters on October 23, 2026. The announcement came as a complete surprise to many fans, as the project was developed entirely in secret. In addition, Cohen is making his feature film directorial debut.

The fact that the film was able to be made without any prior reports is no coincidence. Cohen once again relied on the same secrecy that characterized his "Borat" films. Both the first feature film from 2006 and the 2020 sequel were produced largely under the strictest secrecy. This approach is essential to Cohen's comedy style, as many scenes rely on genuine and unscripted reactions.

Ali G is one of the best-known characters with whom Sacha Baron Cohen gained international fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The self-proclaimed gangster made his first appearance in 1998 on the British satirical show "The 11 O'Clock Show". The character quickly became a fan favorite and got his own TV show, "Da Ali G Show".

In the show, Ali G appeared wearing oversized sunglasses, tracksuits, and speaking in a deliberately exaggerated London slang. Behind the facade, however, lay a sophisticated concept, as Cohen regularly tricked his interview subjects into answering absurd questions seriously or maneuvering themselves into embarrassing situations.

In 2002, the first feature film, "Ali G Indahouse", was released, in which Cohen portrayed the character on the big screen for the first time. The film achieved cult status, particularly in the United Kingdom, and is still considered one of the most famous comedy films of the early 2000s.

An Overview of Sacha Baron Cohen's Most Famous Roles

With his new "Ali G" movie just around the corner, it's worth taking a look back at Sacha Baron Cohen's extraordinary career. The British actor, comedian, and screenwriter has carved out a unique place for himself in Hollywood with his provocative characters. Whether as a rapper, a Kazakh reporter, or a French fashion journalist – hardly any other actor has pushed boundaries so frequently with his roles while simultaneously making audiences laugh. But Cohen has long since proven that he can also convincingly portray serious and multifaceted characters.

From Ali G to International Cult Star

The foundation for his career was laid in the late 1990s with Ali G. The character of the self-proclaimed gangster from a London suburb was initially created for British television and quickly became a pop culture phenomenon. With exaggerated slang, absurd interviews, and a healthy dose of vicarious embarrassment, Ali G even put politicians and celebrities in awkward situations.

This success ultimately led to the 2002 feature film "Ali G Indahouse". Although the film was a major hit primarily in the UK, it also brought Sacha Baron Cohen international fame and paved the way for his later projects.

Borat: Probably the Most Famous Character

Cohen achieved his definitive breakthrough in 2006 with Borat Sagdiyev. In "Borat", the supposed reporter from Kazakhstan travels across the U.S. and, with his provocative statements, causes numerous bizarre encounters. The film became a surprise hit worldwide and grossed many times its budget. At the same time, it sparked heated discussions about satire, prejudice, and political correctness. Cohen won a Golden Globe for his performance and was even nominated for an Oscar in the Best Adapted Screenplay category.

In 2020, he returned with "Borat Subsequent Moviefilm". The sequel also caused a huge stir with its hidden-camera footage and biting social commentary, proving that even years later, the character had lost none of his impact.

Brüno and the Art of Provocation

Borat was followed by "Brüno", another of his most famous fictional characters. In the comedy of the same name, the eccentric Austrian fashion journalist travels across the U.S. and once again holds up a mirror to society. As with Borat, Cohen worked with real people who often didn't know they were part of a film. It was precisely this blend of improvised satire and social observation that made the film a controversial yet unforgettable experience.

General Aladeen in The Dictator

In 2012, Sacha Baron Cohen took on the role of the fictional ruler General Aladeen in "The Dictator". Unlike his previous projects, the film largely dispensed with hidden cameras and instead relied on a classic comedy plot. With dark humor and numerous political allusions, Cohen satirized authoritarian regimes and dictators. Although the film received mixed reviews, General Aladeen remains one of his most famous characters to this day.

More Than Just Comedy

Even beyond his cult characters, Cohen was able to demonstrate his acting talent. In Martin Scorsese's "Hugo ", he played the eccentric stationmaster Gustave and, for the first time, showed a much more family-friendly side.

He received particular praise for his portrayal of the Israeli spy Eli Cohen in the Netflix miniseries "The Spy". Instead of over-the-top comedy, he presented a serious, emotional, and believable secret agent. Many critics described the series as a turning point in his career because it impressively demonstrated that Cohen is capable of much more than just playing satirical characters.

From Comedian to Versatile Character Actor

He also shone in films such as "Les Misérables", in which he played the shady innkeeper Thénardier, or "The Trial of the Chicago 7", for which he even received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of political activist Abbie Hoffman, Sacha Baron Cohen demonstrated his enormous versatility.

His career is marked by daring roles, sharp social satire, and a willingness to take risks. While characters like Ali G, Borat, and Brüno have long enjoyed cult status, his dramatic performances have shown that behind the flamboyant disguises lies an exceptionally versatile actor. With his new Ali G movie, Cohen is now returning to the character with whom it all began – and is likely to spark plenty of conversation once again.