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

The Penguin TV Show Review

The Penguin is a highly anticipated show, and I’ve been eager to share my first thoughts. Right from the start, I can say this show doesn’t disappoint. It’s a gritty, atmospheric dive into Gotham’s criminal underworld, led by Colin Farrell’s mesmerizing performance as Oswald Cobblepot, also known as The Penguin.

This show captures the raw essence of Gotham, presenting a story that feels both grounded and intense. The plot dives deep into Cobblepot’s rise to power, giving us a deeper understanding of his character and the city around him. Without diving into spoilers, I can confidently say this is a show that does justice to its source material while delivering a fresh, immersive experience.

If you’re looking for a show that blends dark crime drama with the complexity of comic book lore, The Penguin is one you won’t want to miss. Keep an eye out for it—it’s shaping up to be one of the best shows of the year!

Key Takeaways:

1. The Penguin is one of my most anticipated shows of 2024, and it does not disappoint.
2. Colin Farrell’s performance as The Penguin is astonishing, and in my opinion, it rivals Heath Ledger’s Joker.
3. The show immerses you in Gotham, building a world so real that you feel like you could visit—though you probably wouldn’t want to.
4. It’s not just about action; the dialogue and power dynamics are gripping, reminiscent of shows like “Breaking Bad” and “The Sopranos.”
5. The performances, especially from Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti, are top-tier. The characters feel deeply nuanced and layered.

The Penguin: An Immediate Favorite

Right off the bat (no pun intended), let me say this: The Penguin is astronomically good. I was already hyped for this show—honestly, it was my most anticipated TV show of 2024—but after watching it, I’m completely blown away. It might just be my favorite show now. The way it captures Gotham, the character arcs, the immersive nature of the storyline—it’s everything I wanted and more.

What makes The Penguin so engaging is its serialized nature. It’s like reading a comic book in real-time, where you think about the characters and plot between episodes. Much like comic books, this show allows you to fill in the gaps, to imagine the world in between what’s shown on screen. And that’s one of the highest praises I can give to any show—it’s so captivating that I couldn’t stop thinking about it, even while I’m supposed to be relaxing on vacation.

Colin Farrell’s Masterclass in Acting

Let’s talk about Colin Farrell for a second. His performance in “The Batman” was already phenomenal—he stole the show in a movie packed with incredible performances. I mean, every time he was on screen, I was glued to the story, fascinated by his portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot (aka The Penguin). Farrell brought a depth to the character that I didn’t expect, and in this show, that depth is only magnified.

I’ll try to avoid being hyperbolic here, but I have to say it: Colin Farrell’s portrayal of The Penguin in this show is on par with Heath Ledger’s Joker. Yes, you read that right. I’ve never said this before about any performance, but Farrell’s acting in The Penguin is the first I’ve seen that belongs in the same conversation as Ledger’s iconic Joker performance. It’s that good.

What makes Farrell’s Penguin stand out is how the show adds comic book elements to his character without making them feel out of place. Somehow, it all works, and you buy into every second of it. His Penguin is both terrifying and vulnerable, calculating yet desperate for power. You see a character who is cunning, who knows how to manipulate situations and people around him, but also someone who is deeply insecure. It’s fascinating to watch.

The-Penguin-TV-Show-Review Shines

I also want to give a huge shout-out to Cristin Milioti. She is an absolute powerhouse in this show. You might know her from “Palm Springs” or “How I Met Your Mother,” but her performance here is next-level. There’s a subtlety to her acting that is remarkable. She can convey so much with just a glance or a micro-expression, making her scenes with The Penguin even more riveting.

The way Milioti and Farrell’s characters interact is pure gold. Their dynamic is full of tension, manipulation, and raw emotion. It’s not just physical battles that drive the plot—it’s the psychological warfare between characters. Their power struggles remind me of some of the best moments in shows like “Breaking Bad” and “The Sopranos,” where dialogue and mind games take center stage. I honestly can’t wait for Milioti to become a household name after this performance.

A Real, Tangible World of Gotham

Another aspect of the show that blew me away is how it brings Gotham to life. This version of Gotham feels gritty and grounded, but also very real. I felt like I could actually visit the city (not that I’d want to). The Penguin nails the atmosphere, and that’s a huge testament to the world-building. You’re so immersed in the story that you don’t even think about other superheroes like Superman or Green Lantern existing in this world, and that’s a good thing. Gotham stands alone here, and that’s the way it should be.

The show also does an incredible job expanding on the lore of Gotham. There’s a lot of focus on the criminal families—the Maronis and the Falcones—and how they operate within the city. The Penguin’s rise to power is intricately tied to these families, and the tension between them keeps you on the edge of your seat. The show juggles so many moving parts, but it does so in a way that feels seamless.

Verbal Sparring Over Action

One thing I absolutely loved about The Penguin is how much it focuses on verbal sparring. Don’t get me wrong—there’s plenty of action, but the best moments are the quieter ones, where characters are trying to outmaneuver each other with words. It’s a show that thrives on dialogue, on chess-like interactions where every word is a potential power move.

This aspect of the show is what makes it feel so much like the great crime dramas of our time. It’s reminiscent of “Breaking Bad,” where characters are constantly making strategic decisions that affect their place in the world. In The Penguin, every conversation feels loaded, like it could tip the scales in a big way. It’s thrilling to watch.

Renzy Feliz: A Scene-Stealer

I can’t wrap up this review without mentioning Renzy Feliz. You might recognize him from “The Runaways,” but he’s an absolute scene-stealer in The Penguin. His character serves as a sort of Robin to Penguin’s Batman, and the dynamic between the two is so well done. Instead of being just a henchman, Feliz’s character is integral to Penguin’s rise and plays a critical role in the story.

There’s a father-son vibe between the two, where Penguin sees in Feliz’s character the potential for something greater. It adds another layer to Penguin’s character, showing a side of him that’s almost paternal, which I didn’t expect. It’s such an inspired choice by the writers to make this character dynamic central to the show, and it works beautifully.

Gotham as a Character

While we’re still in light spoiler territory, I have to mention how the show treats Gotham as a character in itself. In the third episode, there’s a moment that really cements Gotham as a living, breathing entity, and it adds so much to the atmosphere. If you’ve seen Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” you’ll know how important Gotham is to the story, and that continues here. By the third episode, Gotham feels fully realized, like it’s part of the story rather than just a backdrop.

All in all, The Penguin is shaping up to be a masterpiece. The writing is smart, the acting is top-tier, and the world-building is impeccable. If you’re a fan of crime dramas, comic book adaptations, or just great television in general, this is a show you won’t want to miss. I’m already calling it my favorite show of 2024, and if it sticks the landing, it’s going to be a show that people talk about for years to come.

If you liked this review, let me know in the comments! And if you’re excited for The Penguin let’s have a conversation about it. Much love to you all, and I’ll see you soon!