Bourne Again

The Jason Bourne films are some of the best spy thrillers of the 21st century. They turned Matt Damon into an action star, added a touch of intelligence into an otherwise typically-braindead genre, and brought us a whole new level of shaky cam. If you’ve exhausted all of the Bourne films, check out these similarly paced films for your next taste of international intrigue.

Here’s the watchlist: https://on.reelay.app/list/i9qad

TV’s Best

Reelay isn’t just about movies. And with television producing some of the best entertainment anywhere, we’re proud to feature reviews on some of the best shows of this century. The 21st century has been a remarkable era for television, witnessing a creative explosion in content that has redefined the medium. With the rise of streaming platforms and the increasing availability of high-quality series, television has become a dominant force in the entertainment landscape. From gripping dramas to inventive comedies and groundbreaking documentaries, this article celebrates some of the best television shows that have left an indelible mark on viewers worldwide.

  1. Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan, remains a defining series of the 21st century. It follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine producer, as he descends into a world of crime. The show’s riveting storytelling, complex character arcs, and stunning performances by Cranston and Aaron Paul (Jesse Pinkman) garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

  1. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, Game of Thrones brought epic fantasy to the small screen like never before. Known for its grand scale, political intrigue, and unexpected twists, the series became a global sensation. However, its final season sparked debate among fans, highlighting the challenges of concluding a story beloved by millions.

  1. The Sopranos (1999-2007)

While technically starting in the 20th century, The Sopranos had a significant impact on the television landscape of the 21st century. This crime drama, created by David Chase, explored the life of mob boss Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) as he navigated the complexities of family and organized crime. With its nuanced characters and exploration of existential themes, The Sopranos remains a classic.

  1. The Wire (2002-2008)

The Wire, created by David Simon, stands as a testament to the potential of television as a medium for social commentary. Set in Baltimore, the show offered a multifaceted look at the city’s institutions, from law enforcement to schools and the media. Through its unflinching realism and insightful storytelling, The Wire became a highly regarded series, often praised for its authenticity.

  1. Stranger Things (2016-present)

Stranger Things, created by the Duffer Brothers, successfully tapped into the nostalgia of the 1980s while delivering a captivating and mysterious narrative. This sci-fi/horror series follows a group of kids in the small town of Hawkins as they encounter supernatural phenomena, government conspiracies, and a telekinetic girl named Eleven. Its blend of supernatural elements, well-drawn characters, and ’80s pop culture references struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

  1. Fleabag (2016-2019)

Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag is a dark comedy that explores the complexities of modern life, relationships, and grief. The show’s unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and breaking the fourth wall earned widespread acclaim and solidified Waller-Bridge as a powerhouse creator and performer.

  1. Black Mirror (2011-present)

Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror is an anthology series that delves into the dark and thought-provoking implications of technology and its impact on society. Each self-contained episode presents a different dystopian or speculative scenario, challenging viewers to contemplate the consequences of our digital age.

  1. Mad Men (2007-2015)

Set in the advertising world of the 1960s, Mad Men, created by Matthew Weiner, became a critical darling for its meticulous attention to detail and complex character studies. The show’s exploration of identity, gender roles, and the changing cultural landscape of America garnered numerous awards and accolades.

The 21st century has witnessed a television renaissance, with an influx of innovative and captivating series captivating global audiences. These shows represent just a fraction of the exceptional content that has graced our screens in recent years. From the morally ambiguous journey of Walter White to the otherworldly adventures in Stranger Things, these series have enriched our lives and set new standards for storytelling in the television medium. As technology and creativity continue to evolve, we can only imagine the exciting shows that lie ahead, shaping the future of television for generations to come.

Go, Margot, Go!

Is there a more versatile actress working today than Margot Robbie? She made us feel pity for Tonya Harding in I, Tonya. She captured chaos in a bottle in all her iterations of Harley Quinn. And she exploded onto the scene as the not-to-be-messed-with Naomi Lapaglia in The Wolf of Wall Street. With Barbie earning her rave reviews and burning up the box office, we put together a watchlist of our favorite Margot Robbie films.

Here’s the watchlist: https://on.reelay.app/list/dirl6

Biggest Box Office Bombs

With Oppenheimer about to blow up, we thought we’d dive into the world of bombs. Specifically, box office bombs. In the world of cinema, box office success is the ultimate indicator of a film’s popularity and financial viability. However, the film industry is no stranger to colossal failures that leave studios and investors counting their losses. These infamous failures, known as box office bombs, have marred the reputations of filmmakers and actors alike, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of the movie business. In this article, we explore some of the biggest box office bombs in film history. We’ve created a watchlist of these films (and a few more bombs) to check out if you’re so inclined here.

  • “Heaven’s Gate” (1980)

“Heaven’s Gate,” directed by Michael Cimino, is perhaps the most notorious box office bomb in cinematic history. This epic Western film, featuring an all-star cast, had a budget that ballooned to an unprecedented $44 million, making it the most expensive film of its time. Upon its release, the movie received scathing reviews from critics and failed to attract audiences. It only managed to recoup a fraction of its budget, causing massive financial losses for the studio and effectively ending Cimino’s career as a Hollywood director.

  • “Cutthroat Island” (1995)

Regarded as one of the most significant financial failures in cinema, “Cutthroat Island” was a pirate adventure film starring Geena Davis and Matthew Modine. The movie had a jaw-dropping production budget of $98 million, an astronomical figure for its time. However, poor marketing, negative word-of-mouth, and lackluster storytelling led to its disastrous box office performance, earning only a paltry $10 million in the US.

  • “John Carter” (2012)

Based on Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic novel “A Princess of Mars,” “John Carter” was an ambitious science fiction adventure film directed by Andrew Stanton. Despite having a substantial budget of around $250 million, the movie faced numerous production challenges and suffered from unclear marketing strategies. The lack of audience interest resulted in a global box office gross of just under $300 million, leaving the studio with substantial losses.

  • “The Lone Ranger” (2013)

Disney’s attempt to revive the iconic Western character, “The Lone Ranger,” proved to be a costly mistake. With a budget exceeding $200 million and a troubled production, the film struggled to resonate with modern audiences. Despite having Johnny Depp in a prominent role as Tonto, the movie failed to break even, with global box office earnings falling well short of expectations.

  • “Mars Needs Moms” (2011)

An animated science fiction film from Disney, “Mars Needs Moms” had an impressive production budget of $150 million, mainly due to its use of motion-capture technology. However, the movie failed to captivate audiences, resulting in a lackluster box office performance, grossing around $40 million worldwide. The film’s high production and marketing costs left Disney with significant financial losses.

The film industry’s history is riddled with examples of ambitious projects that failed to meet expectations, resulting in catastrophic box office bombs. The unpredictability of audience taste, coupled with the enormous financial risks involved in filmmaking, can lead even the most promising productions to falter. As evidenced by these infamous failures, the key to success at the box office lies in a combination of compelling storytelling, effective marketing, and a connection with the audience’s interests and desires. While box office bombs may serve as cautionary tales, they also remind us of the ever-evolving nature of cinema and the importance of adaptability and innovation in the pursuit of success.

Movies for Those Who Don’t Like Movies

It turns out there are some people who just don’t like movies. As an app built solely around the idea of people loving movies and TV shows, it’s a bit incongruous to us. But, we decided to ask some of our users what movies they’d show to people who don’t watch many movies. Which movies, while perhaps not changing their thoughts on movies as a whole, would they find interesting and, perhaps, enjoyable? With our user feedback in hand, we assembled a watchlist of movies to show that person in your life who doesn’t like movies.

Here’s the watchlist: https://on.reelay.app/list/jvxmr

Groundhog Day, 12 Angry Men, Back to the Future, Knives Out, Forrest Gump, The Shawshank Redemption, Green Book, Good Will Hunting, Toy Story

The Summer Blockbuster Phenomenon: Unraveling the Movie Studio Strategy

With Tom Cruise earning his now customary summer blockbuster paycheck with the newest Mission Impossible and Reelay fans adding films to their Summer Movie Watchlists, it’s time we looked at why the summer has become the season to release huge movies. Every summer, moviegoers worldwide eagerly await the release of highly anticipated blockbusters. From superhero epics to explosive action films, the summer season has become synonymous with big-budget spectacles. But have you ever wondered why movie studios release their most significant films during this time? In this article, we delve into the strategic considerations behind the summer blockbuster phenomenon and explore the factors that make it an ideal time for studios to unleash their cinematic extravaganzas.

  1. The Season of Entertainment: Summer is traditionally associated with leisure, vacations, and outdoor activities. People have more free time with schools on break and families planning trips. This increased availability allows moviegoers, including families, teenagers, and young adults, to indulge in the immersive experience of going to the cinema. By releasing blockbusters during the summer, studios tap into the larger potential audience pool, resulting in higher box office returns.
  2. Competitive Advantage: The summer months are typically less crowded with major television premieres, sports events, and other forms of entertainment. This lack of fierce competition on other entertainment fronts means that blockbuster films have a better chance of capturing the audience’s attention and garnering more significant media coverage. The absence of major television shows and the availability of blockbuster films on the big screen ensures that studios can seize the spotlight and dominate the conversation in the entertainment industry.
  3. Seasonal Highs in Box Office Revenue: Historically, summer has been the most profitable time for the film industry. The warm weather and longer days create an environment conducive to higher movie attendance. Additionally, summer vacations provide a break from the routine, allowing people to seek out unique experiences, including going to the movies. With more people flocking to theaters, studios have a greater chance of generating substantial box office revenue and making their films financially successful.
  4. International Appeal: The summer season transcends geographical boundaries, making it an opportune time to target a global audience. Many countries experience similar weather patterns, school breaks, and vacation periods during this time. By releasing blockbusters in the summer, studios can take advantage of the global synchronization and maximize their reach, aiming to attract audiences worldwide. The international box office has become increasingly significant in recent years, making global appeal a crucial consideration for studios.
  5. Word-of-Mouth and Buzz: Summer blockbusters often benefit from positive word-of-mouth and generate substantial buzz. The heightened social interactions during vacations and gatherings create ample opportunities for people to discuss and recommend movies. A strong opening weekend, coupled with positive word-of-mouth, can lead to increased ticket sales in subsequent weeks. Studios leverage this effect, strategically positioning their films during the summer to generate buzz and capitalize on the extended marketing window.
  6. Franchise Potential and Sequels: The summer blockbuster season provides an ideal platform for launching or expanding franchises. Studios recognize the value of establishing a strong presence during this time, setting the stage for future installments. Successful summer releases lay the foundation for potential sequels, spin-offs, merchandise, and other revenue streams. By strategically releasing blockbusters during the summer, studios create a foundation for long-term financial success.

The movie studios’ decision to release blockbusters during the summer is a well-calculated move. The combination of a larger potential audience, reduced competition, and increased box office revenue makes the summer season a prime time for studios to captivate audiences and achieve commercial success. By aligning with the collective desire for entertainment during the summer months, studios secure a platform to launch franchises, generate word-of-mouth, and create a buzz that resonates worldwide. As moviegoers eagerly anticipate the next summer blockbuster, the strategy behind this phenomenon continues to shape the landscape of the film industry.

Recap: June 2023

June was a fantastic month for Reelay. We brought on a lot more users, had incredible Reelays sent out into the world, and the addition of customizable watchlists became an absolute game changer. So, let’s take a look back at the month of June and see the numbers.

Top Referrals by User

  • bstarrcinema
  • MarcelsMovies
  • HollyM
  • marta.mcfly
  • juliettein18

Most Liked Users

  • MarcelsMovies
  • bstarrcinema
  • marta.mcfly
  • colinspencer
  • MattTheBat

Users Who Created the Most Reelays

  • marta.mcfly
  • amansuris
  • worthyviewmovies
  • Dankelme
  • iamdwg

Most Liked Reelays

  • Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets
  • Ratatouille
  • Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
  • Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
  • Bridesmaids

Reelay Most Shared

  • Spider-Man: Homecoming
  • Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
  • Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
  • Reality
  • The Irishman

Movies with the Most Reelays

  • John Wick: Chapter 4
  • Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
  • Super Mario Bros.
  • Hypnotic
  • Fast X

The Best Films to Watch on the Fourth of July

As Independence Day approaches, what better way to celebrate than by enjoying some patriotic films? Whether you’re looking for action-packed blockbusters, historical dramas, or heartwarming tales of the American spirit, there’s a movie for every taste. In this article, we present a curated list of the best films to watch on the Fourth of July. Grab some popcorn, gather your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

  1. “Independence Day” (1996): What better way to kick off your Fourth of July movie marathon than with “Independence Day”? This iconic science fiction film, directed by Roland Emmerich stars Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, and Bill Pullman. As aliens invade Earth on July 4th, a group of brave individuals come together to save humanity. Packed with explosive action, memorable one-liners, and a healthy dose of American patriotism, this film is a true Fourth of July classic.
  2. “1776” (1972): For those seeking a historical and theatrical experience, “1776” is a musical drama that brings the story of the signing of the Declaration of Independence to life. With catchy songs and witty dialogue, the film captures the spirit and struggles of the founding fathers during a pivotal moment in American history. Celebrate the birth of the nation with this entertaining and educational film.
  3. “Born on the Fourth of July” (1989): Directed by Oliver Stone and starring Tom Cruise, this powerful drama tells the true story of Vietnam War veteran Ron Kovic. The film follows Kovic’s journey from a patriotic young man to an anti-war activist after he is paralyzed in combat. “Born on the Fourth of July” explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the impact of war on an individual. This thought-provoking film is a reminder of the complexities of the American experience.
  4. “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011): If you’re in the mood for a superhero film with a patriotic twist, “Captain America: The First Avenger” is an excellent choice. This Marvel Cinematic Universe installment introduces Steve Rogers, a frail young man who becomes the superhero Captain America during World War II. With its nostalgic wartime setting and themes of bravery and sacrifice, this film is an exciting and inspiring choice for your Fourth of July viewing.
  5. “Forrest Gump” (1994): While not explicitly a Fourth of July film, “Forrest Gump” is an American classic that beautifully captures various moments in American history. Tom Hanks delivers an exceptional performance as Forrest Gump, an endearing character who unwittingly becomes part of significant events, including the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and even meeting presidents. The film’s heartwarming story, iconic quotes, and timeless soundtrack make it a must-watch on any patriotic occasion.
  6. “Yankee Doodle Dandy” (1942): This musical biographical film tells the story of George M. Cohan, a renowned Broadway composer, playwright, and actor. James Cagney shines in the role of Cohan, portraying his rise to fame and his dedication to creating patriotic songs that became a part of America’s cultural fabric. “Yankee Doodle Dandy” is a joyous celebration of American showmanship and resilience.
  7. “The Patriot” (2000) Mel Gibson stars in this historical epic set during the American Revolutionary War. Directed by Roland Emmerich, “The Patriot” tells the story of a farmer turned militia leader who fights for the independence of his nation and his family’s freedom. With breathtaking cinematography and emotionally charged performances, this film portrays the sacrifices made by early patriots and their unwavering determination to secure liberty.
  8. “Apollo 13” (1995) Directed by Ron Howard, “Apollo 13” is a gripping true story of NASA’s ill-fated Apollo 13 mission to the moon. Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, and Bill Paxton deliver powerful performances as astronauts who face life-threatening challenges in space. The film emphasizes the determination and ingenuity of the American people during a time of crisis, showcasing the country’s ability to overcome adversity and reach for the stars.
  9. “Lincoln” (2012) Daniel Day-Lewis gives an astonishing portrayal of President Abraham Lincoln in this biographical drama directed by Steven Spielberg. The film delves into Lincoln’s efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. With its exceptional performances and a compelling narrative, “Lincoln” provides a deep and thought-provoking reflection on American history and the pursuit of a more perfect union.

This Fourth of July, embrace the spirit of patriotism and celebrate America’s independence with these captivating films. From explosive blockbusters to thought-provoking dramas and musical spectacles, these movies offer something for everyone. So, gather your loved ones, immerse yourself in the stories that define the American spirit, and have a fantastic cinematic celebration of Independence Day!