The Duffer Brothers say that the plan for Stranger Things season 5 isn’t set yet, and a 2025 release date might be a stretch. Netflix has revealed that Stranger Things season 5 will come out in 2025. This season will have eight episodes and will be the final chapter of the show’s story. Filming started on January 8, 2024, and finished on December 20, 2024. The year-long plan shows how big the last episodes of the series will be. Its return comes more than three years after season 4, which ended on July 1, 2022.

The Duffer brothers told Variety that the release date for Stranger Things season 5 in 2025 is not guaranteed, even though they had earlier confirmed it. Matt Duffer said the pair will be deciding on an exact release date with Netflix soon, saying that, despite hopes of a release this year, doing so would be “quite the push.” Ross Duffer talked about how the schedule for season 4 was very busy and expressed hope that the last shows will be more relaxed. See what the series writers said below:

Matt Duffer: A lot of it hasn’t been decided, in terms of exactly the release dates and cadence. That’s one reason I’m not allowed to talk about it. We’re getting on a call in about a couple weeks about it. I just know it was very important for us and Netflix that we get it out this year. But even that is quite the push.

Ross Duffer: [We’re] working as fast as we possibly can. Even Season 4, we cut that so tight. We were dropping in visual effects shots the day after the launch! So hopefully we’ll be a little more on schedule this year…now it’s just sort of climbing up another hill as we head towards finally finishing this.

What the Duffer Brothers said about Stranger Things Season 5:

Does this mean the show will really end this year?

Stranger Things season 4 ended with the Upside Down starting to make its way into Hawkins, with Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and other core characters watching it unfold. Season 5 will feature an 18-month time jump, although the extent of both worlds merging together is currently unclear. The last episodes will feature the group’s final confrontation with Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) while finishing off their character stories in the process. Given the long wait, it makes sense for Netflix to want to push the final season for a 2025 release.

However, with filming happening over the course of a full year, there’s clearly a lot for season 5 to cover, with the Duffer brothers wanting to ensure the last episodes are perfect. The cast of Stranger Things have already teased some long episodes and an emotion-heavy finale, making it sensible as to why the release date could be pushed back. But Netflix’s announcement that it’s coming in 2025 indicates they don’t want to push off the new season any longer, meaning a timeline might need to be in place for a quick release regardless.

Could Stranger Things Season 5 Be Delayed?
The Show Should Return in 2025.

Although the Duffer brothers aren’t positive Stranger Things season 5 will be done before the end of 2025, Netflix’s official statement suggests there will be a push this year. Extending the release timeframe to allow for a four-year gap between seasons is not ideal, especially since the series only has eight episodes left before it ends. Even though a push into 2026 is still possible, the wait would definitely be worthwhile, considering that the last season must stick the landing in order to provide a satisfactory ending.

The Crow 2024 Movie A Dark Resurrection or a Fallen Remake?

As a longtime fan of the gothic superhero genre, I was both excited and apprehensive when I heard about the 2024 remake of “The Crow.” The original 1994 film, based on James O’Barr’s graphic novel, has long held a cult status, partly due to its dark aesthetic and the tragic death of its star, Brandon Lee. Now, 30 years later, I find myself sitting in a dimly lit theater, ready to witness this reimagining of a beloved classic. In this review, I’ll dive deep into the shadows of “The Crow” (2024) and see if it soars or stumbles in its attempt to resurrect this iconic story.

Key Takeaways:

• The 2024 remake of “The Crow” attempts to modernize the gothic superhero tale for a new generation.
• While visually striking, the film struggles to capture the raw emotional intensity of the original.
• Strong performances are somewhat overshadowed by pacing issues and uneven special effects.
• The remake introduces new elements to the story but may disappoint purists of the franchise.
• Despite its flaws, “The Crow” (2024) offers an intriguing, if not entirely successful, update to the mythos.

Before we delve into the 2024 remake, it’s worth revisiting the roots of “The Crow” franchise. The story began with James O’Barr’s graphic novel, published in 1989, which was inspired by personal tragedy. The 1994 film adaptation, directed by Alex Proyas and starring Brandon Lee, became an instant cult classic, its legacy forever intertwined with the accidental death of Lee during filming.

Since then, the franchise has seen several sequels and a short-lived TV series, none of which managed to capture the magic of the original. This latest iteration arrives in a cinematic landscape dominated by superhero franchises, begging the question: can “The Crow” still find its place in 2024?

Directed by Rupert Sanders, known for his visually striking work on “Snow White and the Huntsman,” the 2024 version of “The Crow” stars Bill Skarsgård as Eric Draven. The supporting cast includes FKA Twigs as Shelly Webster, Danny Huston as Top Dollar.

The Crow Plot Summary

The core story of “The Crow” remains largely intact in this remake. Eric Draven, a musician, and his fiancée Shelly Webster are brutally murdered on the night before their wedding. A year later, Eric is resurrected by a mysterious crow, granting him superhuman abilities and the chance to avenge their deaths.

However, the 2024 version introduces some notable changes. The setting has been updated from the gritty Detroit of the ’90s to a near-future dystopian metropolis, blending cyberpunk elements with the franchise’s gothic roots. The film also expands on the mystical aspects of Eric’s resurrection, delving deeper into the mythology behind the crow itself.

While these additions provide fresh angles to explore, I found that they sometimes detracted from the raw, emotional core of the original story. The simplicity of a man returned from the dead solely for vengeance and closure is muddied by these extra layers, though some viewers may appreciate the added depth.

If there’s one area where “The Crow” (2024) truly shines, it’s in its visual presentation. Cinematographer Greig Fraser, known for his work on “Dune” and “Rogue One,” brings a haunting beauty to this neo-gothic world. The film is awash in deep blacks, electric blues, and splashes of crimson, creating a color palette that pays homage to the original while establishing its own identity.

The cityscape is a character in itself, a twisted maze of neon-lit alleys and towering, decaying structures. It’s a world that feels both familiar and alien, perfectly capturing the liminal space between life and death that Eric inhabits.

However, while visually stunning, I couldn’t help but miss the raw, grungy feel of the 1994 film. The new version’s polished look, while impressive, sometimes feels at odds with the gritty nature of the story.

The Crow 2024 Cast

Bill Skarsgård had enormous shoes to fill in taking on the role of Eric Draven, and for the most part, he delivers a compelling performance. His Eric is less the rock star of Lee’s portrayal and more a haunted, almost feral presence. Skarsgård brings a manic energy to the role, his lanky frame and intense gaze creating an unsettling aura that fits this darker interpretation.

FKA Twigs as Shelly Webster is a revelation, bringing depth to a character that was largely defined by her absence in the original. Through flashbacks and supernatural encounters, Twigs imbues Shelly with a fierce spirit that makes her more than just a motivation for Eric’s revenge.

Danny Huston’s Top Dollar is a far cry from Michael Wincott’s memorable villain. Huston plays him as a coldly calculating corporate tyrant, which fits the updated setting but lacks some of the charismatic menace of the original portrayal.

Laura Birn’s Officer Albrecht is a welcome update to the character, bringing a weary determination to her role as the cop who becomes entangled in Eric’s vengeful mission.

Rupert Sanders’ direction is a mixed bag. His eye for striking visuals is evident throughout, but the pacing of the film suffers in places. The first act feels rushed, not allowing enough time for us to connect with Eric and Shelly before their tragic end. Conversely, the middle section drags at times, getting bogged down in world-building that, while interesting, detracts from the central narrative.

The action sequences are where Sanders’ direction truly comes alive. These scenes are kinetic and visceral, making full use of the film’s heightened reality. However, quieter moments sometimes lack the emotional resonance needed to balance out the spectacle.

The special effects in “The Crow” (2024) are a bit of a mixed bag. When they work, they’re spectacular. The scenes of Eric’s resurrection are hauntingly beautiful, and his crow’s eye view sequences as he soars over the city are breathtaking.

However, some of the more fantastical elements, particularly in the final act, veer into over-the-top territory. The climactic battle, while visually impressive, feels more like something out of a Marvel movie than the grounded brutality of the original film.

The action choreography, on the other hand, is consistently strong. Eric’s fights are a brutal ballet, showcasing his supernatural abilities while maintaining a sense of weight and consequence. These sequences are where the film comes closest to capturing the spirit of the original, blending gothic atmosphere with hard-hitting action.

Music has always been an integral part of “The Crow,” and the 2024 version doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The score, composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, is a haunting blend of industrial rock and ethereal ambience that perfectly captures the film’s mood.

The soundtrack features a mix of reimagined songs from the original film and new tracks that fit the updated setting. Covers of The Cure’s “Burn” and Nine Inch Nails’ “Dead Souls” pay homage to the 1994 soundtrack while bringing something new to these iconic songs.

While it may not reach the legendary status of the original soundtrack, the music in the 2024 version is a standout element, enhancing the film’s atmosphere and emotional impact.

At its core, “The Crow” has always been a story about love transcending death, and the 2024 version stays true to this theme. The film explores the nature of grief and vengeance, questioning whether justice can truly heal the wounds of loss.

The crow itself remains a powerful symbol, representing both death and rebirth. The film expands on this symbolism, delving into various cultural mythologies surrounding crows and ravens. While interesting, I found that this sometimes overshadowed the personal nature of Eric’s journey.

New to this version is a stronger emphasis on the cyclical nature of violence and the cost of revenge. Eric’s quest is presented as more morally ambiguous than in the original, raising questions about the true nature of justice in a corrupt world.

Inevitably, any review of “The Crow” (2024) must address how it compares to the 1994 original. In many ways, this new version feels like a different beast entirely. It’s slicker, more expansive in its world-building, and more ambitious in its themes.

What it gains in visual spectacle and narrative complexity, however, it sometimes loses in raw emotional power. The original film’s strength lay in its simplicity and the pure, tragic romance at its heart. The 2024 version, in its attempt to modernize and expand the story, occasionally loses sight of this emotional core.

That said, there are elements where the remake shines. Its diverse cast brings new perspectives to the story, and its updated setting allows for commentary on modern societal issues that the original couldn’t address.

In a cinematic landscape dominated by colorful, quip-heavy superhero blockbusters, “The Crow” (2024) stands out as a darker, more introspective take on the genre. Its themes of loss, revenge, and the blurred lines between justice and vengeance feel particularly relevant in our current cultural climate.

The film’s exploration of grief and trauma, while not always successful, attempts to bring depth to the superhero narrative that many mainstream entries in the genre lack. In this sense, “The Crow” (2024) feels like a throwback to a time when comic book adaptations weren’t afraid to delve into darker, more adult themes.

However, the question remains whether modern audiences, accustomed to more optimistic superhero fare, will connect with this bleaker vision. The film’s success may depend on whether it can find a balance between appealing to nostalgia for the original and offering something fresh for new viewers.

As the credits rolled on “The Crow” (2024), I found myself with mixed feelings. On one hand, the film is a visually stunning and ambitious attempt to bring this dark superhero tale into the modern era. It offers strong performances, impressive action sequences, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack.

On the other hand, it sometimes struggles under the weight of its own ambitions, losing some of the raw emotional power that made the original so impactful. Pacing issues and occasionally overblown special effects detract from what could have been a truly worthy successor to the 1994 classic.

Ultimately, “The Crow” (2024) is a film that will likely divide audiences. Purists may find it strays too far from the source material, while newcomers might be drawn in by its stylish visuals and expanded mythology. As for me, while I appreciate the effort to resurrect this beloved franchise, I can’t help but feel that some things are better left undisturbed.

Is “The Crow” (2024) a perfect film? Far from it. But it is an interesting one, and in a landscape of cookie-cutter blockbusters, perhaps that’s enough. It may not soar to the heights of its predecessor, but this dark avenger still has some life in him yet.

If you enjoyed this review of “The Crow” (2024), you might also be interested in our analyses of other dark superhero films:

• First Thoughts on The Penguin TV Show (2024) Review
• Alien Romulus Unveils New Chapter in Sci-Fi Horror Franchise
• Long Legs Review: A Critical Analysis of Limb Length in Athletics

For more movie reviews and in-depth film analysis, be sure to check out our main page.

where can i watch the crow

You can now stream The Crow 2024 on Apple Tv Plus or Amazon.

First Thoughts on The Penguin TV Show (2024) Review

Exploring Arrival

“Arrival,” a flick from 2016, helmed by Denis Villeneuve, is more brainfood than popcorn flick, mixing sci-fi with some heavy-duty pondering. We’re following this top-notch linguist, Louise Banks, played by the incredible Amy Adams. She’s got her work cut out for her when massive alien spaceships pop up all over the globe. Sure, the visitors are kind of a big, scary deal, sparking all sorts of chaos and the looming potential for a planet-wide punch-up. Inspired by Ted Chiang’s “Story of Your Life” from ’98, Eric Heisserer did a bang-up job turning it into a screenplay.

Now, this movie isn’t just about little green men. It dives headfirst into language, how we talk, and how we tick through time, drawing in geeky sci-fi fans and philosophical nerds alike. “Arrival” juggles human and alien chit-chat, posing big questions about how we understand each other, no matter what tongue or time zone we’re in.

Key Players in Arrival

“Arrival” ain’t just about spaceships and aliens. Its success is pinned on the phenomenal pros who brought their A-game to this mind-bender.

Director: Denis Villeneuve is the maestro behind this movie, serving up a blend of heady ideas and heartfelt moments. His track record shows he’s no beginner when it comes to weaving smart plots with emotional depth.

Screenwriter: Eric Heisserer took Chiang’s intricate tale and spun a screenplay mixing complicated timelines and deep thoughts like a pro (Syfy).

Lead Actress: Amy Adams, as Louise Banks, dives deep into the alien language conundrum, skillfully steering us through the doomsday scenario. Her performance got folks talking and feeling, big time.

Supporting Actor: Jeremy Renner steps in as Ian Donnelly, a physicist who pairs up with Banks. He brings the nerd know-how to the table, offsetting Louise’s emotional vibe with some scientific sanity.

Author: Ted Chiang penned “Story of Your Life,” wrapping up language puzzles and time-travel quirks into a story that “Arrival” built upon.

Combine these stellar contributions, and you’ve got yourself “Arrival,” a sci-fi heavyweight that digs into what it means to communicate and connect as humans, no matter where we call home.

Departure from Conventional Sci-Fi

Redefining Science Fiction Narratives

“Arrival” flips the script on your typical sci-fi flick by swapping epic space wars with something a bit more down-to-earth: chatting and connecting . Instead of the usual laser blasters and battles with alien invaders, “Arrival” zooms in on language and its role in how we, as humans, see the world and each other. This shake-up does wonders for sci-fi, pushing us to dig deeper into the quieter parts of storytelling that often get overshadowed by explosions and flashy effects.

Mixing linguistics with some crazy time concepts, the movie serves up a storyline that’s not your run-of-the-mill space adventure . It’s like a love letter to how language can bridge or break us, sparking some heavy conversations about empathy and shared experiences. This fresh angle on aliens pokes at our assumptions and changes how we think about encountering the unknown, showing that words and understanding can totally change our view of everything.

Emphasis on Communication

“Arrival” is all about the babble—ideas are king when cracking alien languages is the name of the game . The plot’s goal is to figure out how to chit-chat with extraterrestrial visitors, putting the spotlight on linguistics as the ultimate translator between worlds. Plus, there’s this neat trick with how the movie plays with time, tying it all into the language, messing with how you think about now, yesterday, and tomorrow.

The story pushes us to chew on how language messes with our worldview and relationships. It’s got this way of making you question what you thought you knew about words and time. As the narrative unwinds, it becomes clear how a common ground with empathy can build bridges, even across galaxies.

“Arrival” mixes brains and heart, delivering a flick that’s as thought-stirring as it is touching Syfy. By homing in on how yakking and listening reshape the sci-fi scene, it leaves you with some serious feels long after the screen goes dark.

Influence on the Genre

Interwoven Themes

“Arrival” isn’t your typical sci-fi flick, and that’s clear from how it juggles heavy-hitting themes like a champ. By diving into linguistics and time that doesn’t walk the straight and narrow, it gets us rethinking all we know about chatting and ticking clocks. The whole deal of language being this mighty tool to shape what’s real adds a twist to how we might vibe with aliens.

What really flips the script is its take on empathy beating war drums. Where most alien tales buzz with battle scenes, “Arrival” goes zen with friendly talks and trying to get on the same page. This isn’t just about beings from other corners of the cosmos; it hits right home with how folks in the film connect. It’s a testament to language and empathy packing a punch more transformative than any laser blaster.

Impact on Sci-Fi Discourse

“Arrival” shook things up in sci-fi like a snow globe. It’s smart and deep take on the whole aliens thing got everyone chatting about how to do it smarter and with a heart . It’s a nudge to storytellers everywhere to go wild with ideas and maybe skip the usual cliché for something that’s got brains and feels.

Bringing the importance of language and empathy to the forefront, it opens discussions that stretch way beyond the big screen. Talking about how we all have these shared human experiences, no matter the barriers, is a serious wake-up call . It says a ton about how we can talk to each other better, whether it’s across galaxies or just next door.

This film flips some big notions about how we see language and time on their heads, and it’s like being given new glasses to view how everything connects. It pries open questions about time, memory, and what human connections really mean, wrapping the whole sci-fi deal with smarts and heart.

By remixing these themes, “Arrival” didn’t just put a fresh coat of paint on sci-fi; it dug up brand new paths for anyone who’s into sci-fi stories or just big ideas, getting folks talking and thinking in all kinds of new and awesome ways.

Amy Adams: A Stellar Performance

Role of Amy Adams

In “Arrival,” Amy Adams steps into the shoes of Dr. Louise Banks, a linguistics whiz roped in by the military to chat with aliens. Yep, you heard it right. Her job is the backbone of the story, as she’s the one trying to crack the tough alien lingo to stop worldwide madness. Adams nails it as Dr. Banks, cleverly juggling smarts and heartfelt emotion that makes you feel like you’re right there with her.

Adams saves her piece with an excited sparkle for fresh challenges, keeping it real and grounded. Her take on a linguist up against her life’s biggest puzzle is as genuine as it gets. The sincerity and drive she brings to the role really glue the film together, making her stint one of the standout bits of “Arrival.” Some folks even argue that without her, the flick wouldn’t pack the same punch emotionally or intellectually (Variety).

Critical Acclaim

When it comes to Amy Adams in “Arrival,” critics and moviegoers couldn’t stop raving. She bagged nods for all the big awards like Golden Globes, Critics Choice, and SAG Awards. Were it not for her absense in the Oscars, you’d think everyone was on board with her portrayal.

Reviewers lauded her for mixing wonder and savvy into Dr. Banks, making the character’s tale hit home in the brain and the heart. Reports from Variety mentioned that Amy Adams was like a spot-on linguistics prof, hitting each nuance of her character with finesse. Her knack for balancing that dual aspect of acting was crucial to what made the movie tick emotionally.


Linguistics and Time Perception

Linguistic Complexity

In Arrival, we’re diving into the brain-boggling world of language with a focus on Heptapod B—the alien chatter of Heptapods, who resemble octopuses of the future! Their communication is as mysterious as it gets—think of them spinning tales not in straight lines, but in mind-bending circles. This script isn’t your usual alphabet soup; it offers a head-scratching look into how language works and tickles the brain.

Now, Heptapod B isn’t just your run-of-the-mill language. It’s got pizzazz because it skips the A-to-B approach and jumps straight to the deep end. Every symbol they jot down is like a packed suitcase of meaning—holding a whole thought or a beefy concept. This style of chatter means info flows smoothly, like coffee on a lazy Sunday morning. It nudges us to think that maybe, just maybe, language decides how we see life and time, echoing what smart folks call the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis (Syfy).

Non-Linear Time Perception

This non-linear language jazz isn’t just for show—it turns time on its head! Dr. Louise Banks, played by the fabulous Amy Adams, gets caught up in this time tango. As she deciphers more of this alien lingo, time starts playing tricks—sending her glimpses of the future like an over-eager fortune cookie. Arrival dives right into this, making us ponder fate and choice. With a new handle on time, the lines dividing past, present, and future turn squiggly—they’re all just different threads of the same tapestry.

By blending these mind-blowing ideas through the lens of language and time, Arrival puts on a show that’s more than just sci-fi eye candy. Heptapod B isn’t just there to spice up the story—it’s a bold reminder to question how words twist our reality.

Arrival’s Emotional Depth

Emotional Impact

When you watch Arrival, you’re hit right in the feels from the get-go. This movie’s all wrapped up with themes like loss, love, and getting each other—stuff that hits home no matter who you are. It’s not your average sci-fi flick; forget epic space battles. Here, it’s about the heart of human and alien meet-ups, putting the spotlight on communication that actually means something . You walk away chewing over your own life just as much as the plot, especially when it digs into grief and learning to let go. It sticks with you long after the credits roll.

Personal Transformation

There’s more to Arrival than some missed call from outer space; it’s a deep dive into self-change. Amy Adams’ Dr. Louise Banks goes through some life-altering shifts that get you thinking. Her journey feels real, with time and language twisting around her—and us too—making you question what’s what. By flipping the script on how we see time and connections, the movie reshapes her world and ours, broadcasting a strong message of resilience and reaching out to others. It dares us to look at the ties that bind us with fresh eyes, in a world that often feels split apart.

Catch this film, and you’re in for a wild, reflection-inducing ride that’ll hang around in your mind, urging a peek into your own life moments.

Balancing Brain and Heart

Intellectual Depth

Arrival stands out in sci-fi because it smartly mixes heady smarts with feels, creating a unique vibe. It’s not just your typical alien flick—it messes with your head by diving deep into how language changes the way we see the world. Enter Dr. Louise Banks, our go-to linguist, who’s in over her head trying to crack the mysterious symbols of alien visitors. Her journey into this never-seen kind of communication brings us face to face with how language and thought are tangled up.

The movie leans into the Sapir-Whorf theory—you know, the one that says the words we use can twist our brains and perception. As Dr. Banks gets knee-deep in alien lingo, she finds her view on time and life doing a flip. This bit of brainy exploration is what gives the flick its compelling depth.

Emotional Resonance

Sure, Arrival messes with your mind, but it packs an emotional wallop, too. At the heart of it all is Dr. Louise Banks’ personal saga, which packs a punch on its own. The more she uncovers about the aliens’ way of speaking, the more she finds herself changed, telling a story that’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Balancing those big brain moments with her own story of loss, love, and being a mom, the narrative hits home in a big way.

What also ramps up the emotional kick is how the movie uses suspense. That “oh snap, we’re running outta time” feeling keeps you on the edge, cranking up both the mental and emotional stakes. The ending sneaks in the feels past the intellect, leaving the story echoing in your heart and mind long after the popcorn’s gone.

Arrival perfectly blends the brainy with the heartstrings, mashing science fiction’s nerdy allure with soul-stirring personal tales. It’s the reason you’ll think about it long after it’s over, keeping you hooked by both the cerebrum and the ticker.

Outlander Season 8 Shocking Twists of Final Journey

Thriller Elements in Arrival

Ticking Clock Tension

Arrival, the brainchild of director Denis Villeneuve, is like a well-oiled time bomb, mixing brainy stuff with edge-of-your-seat thrills. We’ve got this “ticking clock” vibe going on, driving home the panic and hustle. Dr. Louise Banks, played by the ever-awesome Amy Adams, is in a mad dash to crack the code of an alien lingo. It’s like she’s in a race against the clock, and the pressure’s always on. With deadlines closing in, the suspense is through the roof, pulling you right into the thick of it all.

Louise and her crew are dealing with massive global tension too, as everyone tries to keep things from blowing up (literally and figuratively). As they slowly peel back the layers of the alien language, any slip-up could mean disaster. The movie chills and thrills with its pacing, making sure you’re hooked and feeling Louise’s frantic urgency as she tries to piece together the alien messages.

Intimate Emotional Scale

But hey, it’s not all about saving the planet and stuff. Arrival digs deep and throws you smack dab in the middle of some heavy-duty emotional journeys. It’s all up close and personal with Dr. Banks. The more she figures out the alien tongue, the more she changes on the inside. The whole thing about how learning a new language messes with your sense of time just adds more layers to her journey.

This deeper dive makes the audience feel every beat of Louise’s heart and mind. Her tangled relationships at home and her inner battles run like a thread through the movie’s bigger sci-fi tapestry. The film has a knack for weaving in these close-to-the-heart bits with the grand-scale themes, leaving you emotionally charged long after the credits roll (Syfy).

In Arrival, the delicate mix of nail-biting thriller vibes and soul-stirring emotional journeys makes for a one-of-a-kind ride at the movies. The film’s genius at balancing heady puzzles with heart-tugging sentiments keeps it echoing in your mind long after you’ve left your seat.