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The '70s were a dynamite time for music with hit bands like Lynard Skynard, Fleetwood Mac, and Black Sabbath, to name a few, dominating radio airwaves. Among some of the biggest released albums of the decade, Pink Floyd was named as having the most influential album.

There's no denying that there are more than a handful of albums that quickly reached the Billboard charts and became certified platinum. UltimateClassicRock created a list of the "Top 100 Albums of the '70s" that defined the era, with the Top 5 not being a surprise among fans.

Landing at No.5 on the list was The Rolling Stones' 1972 album Exile on Main St., which was their 11th LP and recorded in what was reported to have been a drug-and alcohol-fueled haze in Paris. Fourth on the list is Led Zeppelin's 1971 album Led Zeppelin IV that went back to the basics. Fleetwood Mac's Rumors comes in at No. 3 on the list and was released during the falling-out years for the band.

Taking the No. 2 spot is none other than Stevie Wonder's Song in the Key of Life, which was released in 1976. The album was a continued success for Wonder with multiple love songs and chart-topping hits.

Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon takes the No. 1 spot as the best album to be released in the '70s. According to UCR, the 1973 album is a phenomenon for more than a few reasons and "reached the pinnacle of 1970s rock music."

"Pink Floyd's eighth LP set a stage for a new era of rock records and the way they were presented. The Dark Side of the Moon reflected the group's evolution over the past half-decade; its songs and themes aren't that far removed from what they had been moving toward since the start of the '70s," they said.

Related: 1961 Best-Selling Classic Became a No. 1 Hit 65 Years Ago

The eighth studio album was released in March 1973 and is often perceived as a concept album that focuses on the pressure the band faced during its pinnacle of fame and the mental health problems of former member Syd Barrett. Its songs tackled the themes of greed, time, death, and mental illness, with its cover art gaining notable acclaim, depicting a prismatic spectrum designed by Storm Thorgerson.

The rock band's album gave way to chart hits like "Breath (In the Air)," "On the Run," "Eclipse," and many more that skyrocketed the band into immense wealth. It became certified 14x Platinum by the RIAA and was on the Billboard 200 charts for 900 weeks. Major outlets often name it one of the greatest albums of all time, with it having been preserved by the Library of Congress. It was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.

The trailer for the upcoming live-action Moana movie was officially released on March 23, and it didn't take long for the internet to be swamped with opinions about the project, from criticism of certain design choices to debates about whether the live-action version is needed/wanted.

While Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson'sMaui wig was perhaps the most heavily commented on element of the entire trailer, Maui is far from the only character whose design drew some criticism and negative responses. In fact, Maui wasn't even the only character whose hair, in particular, was the topic of conversation.

Since the trailer was released, there has been significant online discourse about Moana's hair in the live-action movie. In the original animated version, Moana's long curly hair is one of her most iconic features. It was for that reason that many were excited to hear that Catherine Laga'aia had been cast in the role for the live-action movie, as she had natural curls that were a perfect fit for Moana's hair.

Yet, in the trailer, Moana's hair is actually much less curly and full than it is in animation, which has led many to wonder why Disney would make this change if the actress already had the right hair for the role.

Also genuinely why did they make her hair straighter. Her natural hair is exactly like Moana's, so ???? pic.twitter.com/wpevf1sPC0

— Nau 🐍 MAY 13!!! (@nautheduke) March 23, 2026

will never understand hiring an actress who has naturally curly hair like moana but not letting her wear them in the movie https://t.co/eLhXog7zNe

— kiki ⚡️ (@SAHKMETT) March 23, 2026

they developed a new type of animation for moana's curls only to straighten her hair when this is what her natural pattern looks like https://t.co/YwDL2CtPYW pic.twitter.com/H5wfn5vC8M

— 🌸 cat 🌸 walker's defense attorney (@catherinespaws) March 23, 2026

These frustrations and comments following the trailer actually mirror commentary that spread online back in November when images from the movie had become available, showing the same hair change for the beloved Disney character. During that wave of backlash, many creators were specifically calling Disney out for what they argued was whitewashing and removing representation for girls with curly hair.

@aynsley_broom

I just couldn’t believe it when watching this preview for the live action #moana that they straightened and then wand curled her beautiful curly hair. Like even young Moana has the curls, but as the older Moana she doesn’t. I just don’t understand why they made that decision. And I know she’s just a fictional character, but this is a fictional character that means so much to so many in our Pasifika community. And I hate the message that this sends to young girls and women. #moanaliveaction #pasifika #pacificislander #samoan

♬ original sound - Aynsley Broom (Moananu Pula) @constipatedvegetable

If we can manage our curls on a daily basis then Disney definitely can too

♬ original sound - Nadia - Nadia

One running theory includes the possibility that curly hair would be more challenging to work with on set and on screen, especially when it comes to CGI, but many have argued that thinking of the work as too difficult undercuts why this representation was important in the first place.

Thus far, commentary surrounding the movie has continued to be positive about Laga'aia herself, and many agree she is perfect for the role. The issues, from most who have taken to the internet with their frustrations, seem to be directed at Disney specifically.

Moana (2026) hits theaters on July 10, 2026.

Taylor Dearden, who is best known for her role on The Pitt, is opening up about the potential for a romantic storyline for her character, Dr. Mel King.

The actress, 33, who got her start with a small role on her father Bryan Cranston's notorious series, Breaking Bad, went on to appear on the MTV series Sweet/Vicious and the Netflix series American Vandal. But it’s her role as the sweet second-year resident Dr. Melissa King, opposite Noah Wyle on TV’s hottest medical series, The Pitt, that has kicked Dearden’s star power into high gear.

In a revealing new interview, Dearden opened up about the potential for her character to have a romantic storyline.

"The truth is I don’t know…. We have to keep some stuff open because we don’t know where the writers want to take the story," Dearden, 33, told Glamour in a new interview. "What I’ve envisioned may not be the direction they want to go."

Dearden also said that she doesn't really inject much romance into Dearden's life.

"But for me, I always saw Mel as someone who is not romantic — as actually genuinely asexual — and friendship is the most important thing for her. That flirtation, romance, that aspect is not really a part of her, but it’s also hard to make that decision without consulting the writers and seeing what direction they want to go in," she noted, adding that's "how I’ve always envisioned Mel and how I’ve played her."

Dearden added that she's willing to adapt if need be.

"Hopefully loose enough that I can change course if need be," she said. "I think everything for Mel is connection to people and being friends and having true companionship, which I don’t think needs to be romantic."

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Who Does Taylor Dearden Play on The Pitt?

Dearden’s Pitt character, Dr. Mel King, is a fan favorite on the series. Like her character, Dearden is also neurodivergent. However, unlike Dearden, King has not yet been diagnosed.

On a panel back in December, Dearden explained that her character on the show has not been diagnosed with ADHD. Dearden thinks the doctor has likely been affected by her sister having autism. 

“If you have a sibling who’s more severely on a spectrum, the parents often don’t even notice that their other child is,” Dearden said, PEOPLE reported. “That’s kind of always how I saw it. With a lot of Mel, it’s just kind of unmasking and seeing what that looks like, and then also being like, ‘Wow, I’m kind of glad I mask sometimes.’ “

Photo by Kevin Mazur on Getty Images

Does Taylor Dearden Have ADHD?

Dearden has opened up about her lifelong journey through ADHD and how she’s taking that into play when it comes to navigating the experience of her character. In speaking about her character’s experience, Dearden hasn’t shied away from opening up about her own ADHD journey. She recently spoke with Harper’s Bazaar and shared how she came to learn she had ADHD.

“I was really young. My second-grade teacher said to my parents, ‘She can’t finish a test. Something’s up here.’ Usually, girls get diagnosed with ADHD later in life, but luckily, I was a little hyperactive. Because of that, I presented more like a boy, and I was able to get diagnosed earlier,” Dearden shared, noting that a significant amount of progress has been made in the study of ADHD even in the last five years.

In the PEOPLE piece, Dearden noted that one of her tips for dealing with some of her challenges is giving herself advice.

“I’m on the ADHD spectrum so I gave myself advice in the mirror,” she noted.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Star Taylor Dearden, Daughter of Bryan Cranston, Goes Full Glam and Gorgeous on the Red Carpet

On this day in 1982, ABC debuted a new television series that was based on both a popular movie and a hit song. 9 to 5 starred Rita Moreno, Dolly Parton's younger sisterRachel Dennison, and Valerie Curtin as the core characters.

A second version of the series, which added Sally Struthers to the cast, hit television screens via syndication in 1986.

The original movie titled 9 to 5 premiered in 1980. It starred Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda along with Dabney Coleman. The ladies played colleagues who worked for Franklin Hart (Coleman), a difficult boss.

The movie version of 9 to 5 marked Parton's first film role. She played Doralee Rhodes, which was played by her younger sister Dennison in the television series.

Fonda, and later Curtin, played Judy Bernly. Tomlin and Moreno portrayed Violet Newstead.

In the new episodes that were incorporated into syndication in 1986, Struthers stepped in to play Marsha McMurray Shrimpton, as Moreno was unavailable to reprise the character of Newstead.

In the first season of 9 to 5 on TV, Jeffrey Tambor played the character of Hart. In Seasons 2 and 3, Peter Bonerz took over the role.

According to Rewind Magazine, the first season of 9 to 5 stuck fairly close to the original movie in terms of storylines, and only consisted of four episodes. In its brief Season 1 run, the show ranked 33rd in the Nielsen television ratings.

Season 2 strayed further from the original storylines and incorporated new characters. 9 to 5 performed strongly for ABC, climbing as high as 15th in the Nielsen ratings.

There was stiff competition for high ratings in that season, with other shows such as Dallas, M*A*S*H, Magnum P.I., Dynasty, and Three's Company dominating the television landscape.

The television series marked something of a shift in Moreno's career. She had been acting for years when cast for the series, and was already an EGOT winner when the series debuted. Moreno won an Oscar in 1962, a Grammy in 1972, a Tony in 1975, and two Emmy Awards, in 1977 and 1978.

Moreno's Oscar was for Best Supporting Actress in West Side Story. The Grammy was in the Best Recording for Children category for The Electric Company, and the Tony was in the Best Featured Actress category for The Ritz.

Her first Emmy Award came after an appearance on The Muppet Show. Moreno's second Emmy was awarded to her after a guest role on The Rockford Files.

9 to 5, the song, the movie, and the television show, are still fondly remembered by fans all these decades later.

There have been billions of books published around the world, and it’s going to be impossible to read all of them. However, there are some that will always stand the test of time, bringing lessons to be learned no matter how the world changes while also being entertaining. Some of those have to be read at least once, and Goodreads has a list for that.

The site has a section for “Books That Everyone Should Read At Least Once,” and rather than being listed by what’s in the “Want to Read” shelf, this section is voted on by users. There is one that stands out from 66 years ago, proving that the age of the book doesn’t mean it loses its meaning.

‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Is the No. 1 Pick

The Goodreads users have spoken, and they say that To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is the top book to read at least once. Behind it are Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank, although they’re not in close contention.

Published in 1960, To Kill a Mockingbird would go on to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1961. It would take more than 50 years for the sequel to follow, and according to Lee’s agent, Andrew Nurnberg, the whole series was supposed to be a trilogy. However, the sequel, Go Set a Watchman was reportedly lost until 2013 and then published in 2015.

While Go Set a Watchman was written before To Kill a Mockingbird, it’s set 20 years later. This did lead to some speculation that it was the first draft of the first novel, until Lee changed the plot.

A History We Cannot Be Allowed to Forgotten

It’s not surprising that To Kill a Mockingbird is at the top of the list of books that everyone should read at least once. This is a story of a time that can’t be forgotten, of a society that can’t be allowed to return.

It follows the story of a Black man charged with the rape of a white girl. The lawyer narrating the story is the man defending the Black man during a time of heavy racism and hypocrisy. After all, it’s the Deep South in the 1930s, but that doesn’t mean everyone could idly sit by and watch an injustice happen.

Sadly, it’s a story that remains relevant for all the wrong reasons. As injustices prevail, so must a novel like this.

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Sometimes a product comes along that just screams overachiever. That's exactly what you want from outdoor gear, especially during this time of year. As you begin planning camping, entertaining, and vacation adventures, it's worth considering a portable chair for your list of essentials. One that's equipped with multifunctional features has the potential to become your MVP throughout spring and summer!

That's the case with the Coleman Portable Camping Chair. It's basically the chair of your dreams, brought to life by the purveyors of top-selling coolers. The brand naturally built a cooler into this chair, too, along with a slew of other features that make it both comfortable and incredibly functional. Marked down from $59 to just $40 during Amazon's Big Spring Sale, it's an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Coleman Portable Camping Chair, $40 (was $59) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Available in black, navy, and red, the chair offers everything you could possibly want but didn't realize you actually needed. The seat and back are both cushioned for maximum support, keeping you comfortable no matter how long you plan to kick back and relax. The cooler is designed to hold up to four cans at a time, so your favorite beverages will stay chilled for hours. There's also a handy mesh cup holder built into one armrest, along with a roomy side pocket that conveniently holds anything from your phone to a book.

Coleman designed its camping chair with thoughtful technical features that set it apart. It supports up to 325 pounds thanks to the robust and durable steel frame, with a comfortably wide 24-inch seat that provides generous wiggle room. The arms are adjustable, so you can truly customize the setup to meet your specific comfort needs.

Related: Amazon's 'Magical' $10 Firefly Lights Turn Your Flower Beds Into Fairytale Gardens

The real highlight is the portability factor. When it's not in use, it folds up in just seconds and slides easily into the included carrying case. At just 8.2 pounds, the chair is just the right weight. It's secure and substantial, but not so heavy that you'll have trouble moving it around. That will come in especially handy during outdoor events, whether you're tailgating or just transporting it from one spot on your patio to another. 

With over 7,900 verified five-star reviews, the chair has earned praise for its quality construction and next level features. It's "sturdy and good looking," one shopper noted, adding that the design is “genius” and that the brand "thought of everything." 

Another customer agreed. "I can't believe the quality for this price. It's really well made and very easy to set up." Many people were also impressed with the soft padding, sharing that it amplified their comfort when they sat for hours.

Shop More Deals

• Armor Castle Folding Camping Table, $42 (was $56) at Amazon
• Verdeluxe Octagonal Fire Pit, $98 (was $119) at Amazon
• Grenebo 9-Piece Gardening Tools Set, $26 (was $34) at Amazon

As your warm weather plans start taking shape, you'll appreciate having the versatileColeman Portable Camping Chair handy. Suitable for getaways, games, entertaining, and beyond, it checks every box for an excellent price.

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Abbott Elementary is back this week with a new episode. Season 5, Episode 17, titled “No Homework,” takes the show back to its roots of rapid-fire zingers and heartfelt moments that make this ABC comedy one of the funniest shows on TV. In this week’s episode, Principal Ava (Janelle James) institutes a no-homework policy at Abbott Elementary after a run-in with frenemy and competing elementary school principal Crystal (Tatyana Ali).

Keep reading to find out how and when to watch Abbott Elementary and to get a sneak peek at what this week’s “No Homework” has in store.

When and How to Watch Abbott Elementary View this post on Instagram

Abbott Elementary is all new Wednesday, March 25, 2026, as the teachers of Abbott Elementary try to rebound after Principal Ava’s new no-homework policy wreaks havoc on the school.

Wednesday’s episode airs from 8:30–9:02 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and will be available for streaming on Hulu the next day.

Guest Stars and Season 5 Highlights View this post on Instagram

Season 5 of Abbott Elementary has featured A-list guest stars like the Philadelphia Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber,Shrinking’s Luke Tennie, and NewsRadio’s Khandi Alexander. Former The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Tatyana Ali reprises her role as Ava’s former sorority sister turned competing principal at rival elementary school Liberty Rings in tonight’s episode. Ali returns to her hilarious, ultra-competitive role and brings back Ava and Crystal’s side-splitting feud seen across Seasons 3 and 4.

“No Homework” delivers the laugh-out-loud one-liners that made Quinta Brunson’s comedy a critical darling and an awards show favorite. What continues to make this show one of the most reliable comedies on television is its carefully crafted characters who, despite their flaws and foibles, always manage to come together as a family—even when Principal Ava throws the school into complete chaos and hilarity.

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Despite my personal aversion to some foods, it takes a lot to shock me. For the most part, I'm pretty open-minded about what other people like to eat, and as long as there's no mayo involved, I'll probably give it a try. That doesn't necessarily mean I'm lining up to put anchovies on my ice cream, but objectively speaking, a sundae could potentially benefit from a hit of salty umami. And who knows? It could end up actually tasting okay. All that is to say, when it comes to what's on someone else's plate, I'm usually in support of their right to eat whatever they want—emphasis on usually.

Unless, of course, your meal choice includes going to Panda Express and only getting white rice and a Diet Coke, and then combining them together like some sort of weird science experiment. That's where I draw the line. Not an egg roll or the tiniest morsel of orange chicken. Just white rice mixed with Diet Coke. It sounds like dirty soda gone wrong, IMO, and while you might expect it to be some toddler's hyperfixation of the moment, this particular combo in question was the brainchild of none other than theMiley Cyrus. 

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Related: New First-of-Its-Kind Cereal Takes Boy Kibble Literally and People Have Thoughts

In case you missed it, the Hannah Montana: 20th Anniversary Special aired on Disney+ on March 23, and while it was indeed a nostalgic trip down memory lane for millennials, we also got to learn a little bit more about what it was like behind the scenes. During one particular anecdote in her interview with Alex Cooper, Miley shared that her go-to meal at Panda Express was white rice and Diet Coke. And although the combo on its own doesn't necessarily sound offensive, the way she ate it does. 

View this post on Instagram

"My favorite thing to get at Panda Express was the white rice and pour Diet Coke on top. Instead of soy sauce, I'd do Diet Coke. It's a whole thing," she admitted. Yeah, we're having a hard time defending this one. She did at least acknowledge that the mixture was "really gnarly" and also suspected that it may have weirded out her co-star Emily Osment. "No wonder she was like, 'Who is this bumpkin that they got?'" she said. Beyond that, though, she didn't explain where the idea came from other than saying that she's "from the South in a way that it's really hard to describe."

As someone also from the South, Diet Coke over white rice is a new one to me. But as I said earlier, this is a safe space. We listen, and we don't judge. At least we try not to. So, what's your verdict? Does white rice mixed with Diet Coke sound like sweet niblets, or was Hannah Montana's wig a little too tight?

Related: Coffee Lovers Cereal-ously 'Can't Wait' for This Limited-Edition Pebbles Collab

Beloved The Young and the Restlessstar Eric Braeden has revealed a health issue kept him away from work on the CBS soap.

Braeden posted a video on Facebook to share that he was recovering from pneumonia.

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“Hello, everyone. I haven't talked to you for a while. I had pneumonia for about two weeks, and I'm over there now,” he expressed, revealing it hit multiple members of his family.

However, at age 84, it took a toll on Braeden. “Pneumonia is no walk in the park. In fact, you can't walk. That's the point. I mean, it hits you like a ton of bricks,” the soap star added.

Thankfully, with the help of medicine and rest, Braeden has returned to work and is almost feeling normal. Braeden shared that he has been slowly getting back into his workout routine. He also opened up about having to take off from the CBS soap.

“I had to make up for not being there for two weeks, so the last two or three weeks were a lot of work and a lot of days of double duty. But we survived it. So, I love being back to work, love being back with my colleagues. It's nice to see Melody and Joshua and Mark and Amelia and everyone, really. Michelle Stafford. What a privilege to be able to go to work, you know? It really is,” Braeden gushed about his job.

Despite his health setback, Braeden’s grateful to be breathing normally again and not having any serious, lasting effects. The actor is almost 85, so any illness can be scary.

Related: ‘The Young and the Restless’ and Hallmark Star Reveals Secret Wedding

After reassuring The Young and the Restless fans he was doing fine, Braeden teased what’s coming up on the show, especially now that Victor and Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott) have split.

“I have some difficult scenes with Melody, who plays my wife. Afterwards, we hug each other because we know we did a good job, but whoa. You know, I don't like to scream at her,” he spilled.

Fans will see the scenes Braeden was referring to in the next four to six weeks, as that is how far in advance the CBS soap films.

Next: 'Virgin River’ Fan-Favorite Breaks Silence on Unexpected Cast Exits

Outlander fans are used to seeing changes from book to screen. There are times those changes are necessary, and there are times that they’re not quite as needed. There’s no doubt that many book-first fans are angered by the decision of the Faith plot throughout Outlander Season 8, just as an example.

However, while Matt B. Roberts and Maril Davis will run with changes to help their story, there are some that they back peddle on. This is when Diana Gabaldon makes it clear that a change wouldn’t be best for the overall tale. If she is adamant about something, they will listen.

‘Outlander’ Almost Changed Black Jack Randall’s Death

Book fans were ready for Black Jack Randall’s death at the Battle of Culloden. It happened during the books, and it was a clear end to this part of Jamie’s story. There was absolutely no need to keep him alive after this point, and yet, the show’s creative team considered it. 

Roberts shared with SYFY Wire that this idea didn’t go down well with Herself, as book fans adoringly refer to her. Gabaldon simply said, “I wish you wouldn’t,” and that was it.

It makes sense that as show creators they thought about keeping him alive. There are some substantial differences between shows and books, and with TV shows, the actors make their characters their own. They jump off the screen, and they can pull viewers in via ways that book characters can’t necessarily manage.

However, Black Jack Randall had his time, and that time was over during the Battle of Culloden. In fact, it’s something that comes up on Outlander Season 8, as Claire thinks about using knowledge as power. Black Jack’s date of death was the one that she knew and could hold over him, so in the end, his death date had to remain the same.

Diana Gabaldon Has Offered Ways to Keep Characters Around

While characters have died in the books, they haven’t always on the show, and that’s because of the way the characters have come to life thanks to their actors. One of those was Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser, who was supposed to have died at the Battle of Culloden. In the end, we met him again at Ardsmuir Prison and Jamie and Young Ian later come across him in Wilmington, North Carolina.

At one point, he was going to be in Jamaica. Gabaldon offered a way to make the most of the inclusion of the character that better suited both the character and the narrative, leading to Murtagh becoming disenfranchised after his time as an indentured servant and leading the Regulators.

So, for those who don’t think the Outlander showrunners ever listen to Gabaldon, they do. When it really matters to the overall story. That doesn’t mean they’ll listen every single time, as the show is their own adaptation.

43 years ago, a cult classic hit theaters, launching the careers of Tom Cruise,Patrick Swayze, and other future ’80s stars.

That movie? Francis Ford Coppola’s epic adaptation of The Outsiders, based on the book of the same name by S.E. Hinton. On this day in 1983, moviegoers were introduced to the Greasers and the Socs in one of the most popular and beloved movies of all time.

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Along with Swayze and Cruise, The Outsiders starred Matt Dillon, C. Thomas Howell,Ralph Macchio,Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Diane Lane, Leif Garrett, and Darren Dalton. The entire cast was largely unknown at the time.

I remember it like it was yesterday... The film adaptation of The Outsiders, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, was released on this day in U.S. theaters, March 25, 1983. It is known for its ensemble cast of future stars, including Tom Cruise, C. Thomas Howell, Patrick Swayze, Rob… pic.twitter.com/ZhYhWjda30

— Danny Boy O'Connor (@DannyBoy1968) March 25, 2026

That didn’t last long, as The Outsiders’success quickly thrust them into fame, taking their careers to new heights.

The Outsiders film is set in Oklahoma in the 1950s, focusing on Ponyboy Curtis (Howell) and his brothers, Sodapop (Lowe) and Daryl (Swayze), along with their Greaser friends. When trouble finds Ponyboy and Johnny (Macchio), their lives are forever changed.

The film goes down in cinema history; however, what was released wasn’t the version that Coppola wanted because so much of the book was removed. Coppola reiterated that during an interview on Lowe’s podcast, Literally with Rob Lowe. The director fought with the studio over the version that was released in 1983 because there was so much more to the movie that didn’t make the cut.

In 2021, The Outsiders: The Complete Novel was released in movie theaters. It’s the version Coppola wanted and falls more in line with the book, including additional scenes from both before and after the original film’s timeline.

Lowe often compares filming the movie to summer camp because the cast, many teens and young adults, stayed in a hotel in Oklahoma at the time. The actor has also referred to The Outsiders as his frat brothers because of the bond that they formed back then.

Howell has previously stated that he is still remembered from the movie, with fans even quoting the infamous "Nothing Gold Can Stay" poem by Robert Frost, which Ponyboy tells Johnny in the movie.

When he appeared on Lowe's podcast, Macchio admitted that fans still come up to him and say his famous The Outsiders line, “Stay gold, Ponyboy.”

Related: This Trisha Yearwood 1992 Hit Was Almost Recorded By a Legendary Country Duo

Decades later, The Outsiders is as popular as ever. Along with new generations finding the movie, The Outsiders: A New Musical is currently on Broadway, based on Hinton’s book, produced by Hollywood legend Angelina Jolie.

Next: ‘Wild Thing’ Songwriter Chip Taylor Dead at 89: What We Know About Angelina Jolie’s Uncle’s Cause of Death

There’s something about that first wave of seasonal finds at Costco that signals a shift in the air. Shoppers start spotting hosting essentials, patio upgrades and warm-weather staples popping up in stores, and suddenly, spring feels real. One Costco item currently getting attention is a drink dispenser that looks far more expensive than its price tag suggests.

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A High-End Look Without the High-End Price

The Denmark Drink Dispenser, shown by @costcohotfinds, is quietly becoming a fan favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Priced at just $22, it delivers a polished, elevated look that shoppers say feels more in line with pieces you’d find at Pottery Barn or Crate & Barrel.

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The design leans into a clean, modern aesthetic. Both the lid and base are made from ceramic, giving it a sturdy, upscale feel that stands out from the typical plastic dispenser. A stainless steel spigot adds durability while keeping the overall look sleek. It also features a glass beverage container, which enhances the high-end look.

Functionality matches the style. The dispenser holds up to two gallons, making it ideal for serving larger groups without constant refills. It’s also designed with an extra-wide opening, so pouring drinks is quick and mess-free. Whether you’re filling mason jars with lemonade or topping off glasses with iced tea, it’s built for convenience.

Shoppers in the comments are already calling it fancy and praising how substantial it feels for the price point.

Related: So This Is Why Costco Pizza Is Seriously Addicting

Why Shoppers Say It’s the Start of Hosting Season

Beyond its design, timing is a big part of the buzz. One commenter said that when Costco starts putting things like this out on the floor, it's the unofficial start of summer. Even though it’s still early in the season, products like this tend to spark ideas for outdoor gatherings and casual entertaining.

The dispenser is especially appealing for warm-weather hosting. Its large capacity makes it perfect for serving crowd-pleasers like lemonade, fruit-infused water or batch cocktails at barbecues, birthday parties and holiday celebrations. Think Mother’s Day brunches, Father’s Day cookouts or graduation parties where guests can help themselves.

Some shoppers even noted they hope Costco brings back its popular acacia wood drink dispenser, but in the meantime, this ceramic version is filling the gap with a more refined look.

This find blends style and practicality in a way that makes entertaining feel effortless, without stretching your budget.

Related: Costco Just Launched a New Kirkland Signature Product—and Shoppers Are Running

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For small and large homes alike, it’s not difficult for your accumulating belongings to start taking up all the storage space and cluttering your rooms. If you’re looking to decrease the clutter without throwing things out, vacuum storage bags are a simple solution. They can effortlessly reduce the volume of your clothes, bedding, and linens, maximizing your storage space. Now that we’re in the midst of the spring cleaning season, this Tooloton 24-Piece Vacuum Storage Bag Set at Walmart is definitely worth checking out. 

Right now, you can snag this 24-pack of vacuum storage bags on sale for less than $25 for a limited time. Normally retailing for $33, it’s now on sale for just $24 — that’s just $1 per bag! The best part? It comes with an electric pump, so you don’t have to do any of the work. 

Tooloton 24-Piece Vacuum Storage Bag Set, $24 (was $33) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Whether your cabinets and closets are filled to the brim or you simply lack space, these vacuum bags will help streamline your belongings while increasing storage capacity by up to 80%. You can use these bags to stow out-of-season bedding and clothes, or efficiently pack your suitcases while traveling. 

Designed to store various items to meet your storage needs, this vacuum bag set comes with a wide range of sizes, including jumbo, large, medium, small, and travel. This set has five bags of each size except for the travel version, which comes with four. For reference, the jumbo bags measure 40 inches by 30 inches and can fit a queen-size bedding set. The small bags measure 24 inches by 6 inches and can hold between six and eight sweaters. 

Convenient and efficient, this set also comes with an electric pump so you don’t have to spend time or energy compressing the bags yourself. After stuffing the bag, simply place the electric pump over the valve to vacuum out all the excess air. Shoppers noted that the vacuum works really quickly and said that it’s a huge upgrade from using a manual pump.

All the bags except the travel versions come with the vacuum valve. The travel bags have a roll-up design, made so you can store your clothes efficiently when you’re on the go without needing the vacuum pump. It’s almost as easy to use — you just have to roll up the bag to manually push out all the air yourself. However, you can still bring the small bags with you while you travel if you also have space to bring along the electric pump. 

Related: Walmart Has an 'Adorable' $27 Side Table With 'Great Storage' Built-In for Books, Toys, and More

“I've reclaimed so much space in my home,” one shopper said, while calling these bags “an effortless storage solution.” Another reviewer commented that they’re “absolutely wonderful for storage and travel!” A third said that they’re “decluttering magic.” Many shoppers also deemed these bags a “space-saver,” especially for those who lack storage space.

Made of nylon and polyethylene, these bags are incredibly durable and flexible. They feature double zipper seals, ensuring that your belongings are protected from moisture and dust. Several shoppers raved about how great these bags are at keeping their items fresh and pristine. 

Shop More Deals 

• Biemlerfn Over-the-Toilet Storage Shelf, $76 (was $170) at Walmart
• Vecelo 4-Tier Stackable Box Organizer, From $60 (was $80) at Walmart
• Laintene Hall Tree with Bench, $90 (was $140) at Walmart

Whether you’re jumping into spring cleaning or have a long vacation planned, the Tooloton 24-Piece Vacuum Storage Bag Set is here to give you a helping hand. Head to Walmart and snag a pack while it’s still on sale for just $24!

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I hate saying that a book would work better as a movie. It’s very rare that that is the case, as the pages of a book offer more time to develop characters and plotlines. However, out of all of Grady Hendrix’s books, there is one that seems to have been written perfectly as a horror movie rather than a novel.

The Final Girl Support Group was released in July 2021 and is a fun romp into 1980s and 1990s horror. It captures the heart of the slasher genre, but it doesn’t quite read as a book, making it potentially better as a movie.

‘The Final Girl Support Group’ Features Visual Tropes

The Final Girl Support Group is a homage to the slasher movies of the 1980s and 1990s. There are specific elements that scream (no pun intended) Friday the 13th, Halloween, and Scream, and that’s without the topic of the “Final Girl.” The problem with this is that capturing the tropes of these slasher movies requires visual storytelling.

That’s not to say that Hendrix doesn’t have the skill to describe scenes. I still felt connected to the overall story, but the more I read, the more I felt like it would be better shown on a TV screen. It’s those visual elements, such as seeing the final girl make a decision that could end her life, like running up the stairs, that is missing from the overall story.

The main character also isn’t the most likable, and it makes it difficult to root for her. Do we really want her to be the Final Girl of Final Girls? There are others who are much more sympathetic and smart, who deserve that position instead. Part of that is because we get to know her too much through her own narration, which a movie would fix, since we can’t exactly read her mind!

Penguin Random House

A Movie Would Condense the Plot

There are times that books work best because more time is needed to explain a situation or a scene. When it comes to Final Girl Support Group, it’s the opposite. The plot ends up a little too long, with events added in more for what seems like the sake of it. Hendrix is telling a story and not writing a movie.

Just the way the chapters can start with descriptions of movies or what are supposed to be articles about those movies seems to be a way to stretch the story. The first time I saw that, I felt confused as to why it was there.

With a movie, a lot of that can be skipped over. There could be a montage of the stories if needed, similar to the way For All Mankind catches us up on the events between the seasons. However, a movie will help to cut down a lot of the clutter and keep the focus on the real horror, adding to the tension.

It’s rare that I think any book is going to work better as a movie, and this is the first for Hendrix. What it does make clear is that after My Best Friend’s Exorcism, this is the next of his novels that needs to be adapted.

The Waltons star Eric Scott played Ben Walton throughout the beloved show's nine-season run.

In a March 2026 interview withThat's Classic, Scott shared he shifted his career after The Waltons ended in 1981. He explained that he worked in retail "at the Broadway department store for a year" once production of The Waltons wrapped up. He explained that he "wanted to see what" being a salesperson was like because his only working experience was being on television.

"I went to all different departments. I gave it one year and I said, 'You know what? I don't like retail.' I quit it," said Scott during the March 2026 interview.

Scott also said he thought he would be able to star in another series after The Waltons ended.

"There was still that thought that maybe another show would come on, but nothing happened. So, I said, you know, I got to pivot. I got to make a living," explained Scott during the That's Classic interview.

He then decided to drive "for a messenger company" because it gave him the freedom to still try to be an actor.

"I thought there was a flexibility here," said the 67-year-old during the interview.

Scott also told That's Classic that he now "own[s] the company."

"It was a strange transition," said the Waltons star.

Eric Scott Said His Mother Kept Him Grounded on Set

In the That's Classic interview, Scott attributed his mother's presence on the Waltons' set as how he was able to stay grounded, despite being a child star.

"My mom was on the set for me. And I thank her for being there. And talk about centering me," said Scott in the interview.

He explained that his mother had him do his chores after he finished filming an episode of The Waltons.

"She kept me very grounded, I finish up work and I'd still have to go clean up after the dog when I got home. And I went through Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. I'm an Eagle Scout," said Scott.

Before social media made fashion and lifestyle influencers a thing, one fictional columnist ruled them all.

On Wednesday, Sarah Jessica Parker celebrated her 61st birthday, marking her five decades in the spotlight. While she appeared in films and on Broadway long before the 1990s, it was her performance as Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City that cemented her place in television.

On top of her acting and fashion ventures, Parker is the curator behind SJP Lit, a literary imprint launched in 2022 that publishes "expansive, thought-provoking, and big-hearted literary fiction." Their latest book, Women and Children First, by Alina Grabowski, landed on various listicles in The New York Times, Oprah Daily and Vogue for the most anticipated release for 2024.

"🎉Happy Birthday to our iconic publisher @sarahjessicaparker !" the official SJP Lit Instagram posted on Wednesday afternoon, along with a photo of the actress holding A Quitters Paradise by Elysha Chang.

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Born in Ohio but raised in New York, Parker was a trained singer and ballerina, and made her Broadway debut in the play The Innocents when she was just 11 years old. In the late 1970s and 1980s, she held different roles in various Broadway musicals, movies and TV shows, including Annie, Square Pegs, Footloose, Girls Just Want to Have Fun and Flight of the Navigator.

In the 1990s, Parker was involved in two cult-classic films: Honeymoon in Vegas and Hocus Pocus. Both movies were a critical success, earning more than $35 million at the box office. She also continued her theater career, starring in the off-Broadway play Sylvia, alongside her now husband, Matthew Broderick.

Golden Eve: The Golden Globes Honor Helen Mirren & Sarah Jessica Parker held at The Beverly Hilton on January 06, 2026 in Beverly Hills, California.

Christopher Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images

In 1998, SJP started playing Carrie Bradshaw in HBO's Sex and the City, which followed four girls who lived in New York City. Despite their different natures and changing sex lives, they remain inseparable and confide in each other. Carrie is the narrator and main character of the drama series, and each episode is structured around her train of thought while writing her weekly column "Sex and the City" for the New York Star. Concluding after six seasons, SJP's role gave her two Primetime Emmy Awards, three SAG Awards and four Golden Globes. The series also starred Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon.

Kristin Davis, as Charlotte York, and Sarah Jessica Parker, as Carrie Bradshaw, seen on Location For "Sex and the City" on May 08, 2001 at Central Park in New York City, New York, United States.

Tom Kingston/WireImage

After Sex and the City ended, Parker went on to appear in multiple acting projects. Sex and the City ended up returning for a film, which was released in 2008 and then the sequel in 2010. In 2021, Parker, Nixon and Davis returned as Carrie, Miranda and Charlotte, respectively, in the revival titled And Just Like That..., which aired on HBO for four years.

Now, Parker has three children with her husband, Broderick, and manages a shoe line and her publishing imprint. The 61-year-old actress has always been a huge book lover, and on Monday, she was featured in a Vogue article about the rise of books, saying that "there are so many exciting books on our horizon."

Sex and the City and its revival, And Just Like That..., can both be streamed on HBO Max.

Related: Beloved '90s Actress, Who Starred in Iconic Sitcom, Turns 93

Easter just wouldn’t feel right without peanut butter eggs. They’re the best part of those pastel-filled baskets, and honestly, they might even be better than chocolate bunnies.

But here’s the thing—store-bought peanut butter eggs, like Reese’s, aren't always gluten-free. It’s frustrating for me because their regular cups don’t have gluten, but for some reason, the holiday versions do. That means that for me, making them from scratch is the best and safest option. Bonus: They taste even better when they're homemade.

In our family, homemade peanut butter eggs have become an Easter staple, thanks to my husband’s uncle. Every year, he makes a batch, and we all look forward to them. They’re rich, creamy and wrapped in just the right amount of chocolate—way better than anything store-bought.

Now, I’m taking inspiration from him and making my own, and thanks to social media, I have even more great ideas for making peanut butter eggs at home.

Related: I Just Made Peanut Butter Cups at Home and I Feel Like a Genius

@crowdedkitchen

Eggs are way too expensive right now 🥚💸 – make your own Peanut Butter Easter Eggs that look like actual eggs instead! You can dye the white chocolate any color you’d like – we made ours look like robin’s eggs and they turned out so cute! Search ‘Crowded Kitchen Peanut Butter Eggs’ online for the full recipe 🐣 #eggs

♬ original sound - Crowded Kitchen How To Make Peanut Butter Eggs From Scratch

For these eggs, you need creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, milk (or heavy cream for extra richness), chocolate chips and coconut oil. 

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract and salt until smooth. Slowly add the powdered sugar, stirring until it forms a thick, dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add milk (one tablespoon at a time) until it holds together but isn’t sticky.

Roll the mixture into small ovals or use an egg-shaped cookie cutter for a more uniform look. Place the peanut butter eggs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up so they don’t fall apart when you dip them in the chocolate and dipping a chilled egg will also help the chocolate coating set.

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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. If using a double boiler, melt the chocolate over simmering water, stirring until glossy and pourable.

Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each peanut butter egg in chocolate, letting the excess drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper. If you want that perfect Reese’s-style shell, you can double-dip after the first layer sets.

Let the eggs sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets or speed up the process by refrigerating them. Once the chocolate has hardened, it’s time to decorate!

Related:The Genius Way To Make Cadbury Creme Eggs 10x Better

How To Decorate Homemade Peanut Butter Eggs

Decorating these peanut butter eggs is where you can get creative. You can use a contrasting chocolate (white over dark or vice versa) and drizzle over the eggs for a bakery-style look.

Easter-themed sprinkles or edible glitter add a festive touch while dipping half of the egg in white chocolate and half in dark chocolate gives it a sophisticated, marbled effect.

Want to make the eggs look a little realistic? Flick a little food coloring mixed with cocoa powder over the eggs to make them look like Robin’s eggs.

For more fun, use melted chocolate to pipe little flowers, initials, or even tiny Easter bunnies on top.

Whether you stick with the classic or go all out with decorations, these peanut butter eggs are guaranteed to be a hit!

Related: How to Make Cadbury Mini Eggs 10x Better

There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people's trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.

Here's a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.

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Who won Jeopardy today?Jamie Ding

Jamie Ding just cannot be stopped! The law student has made a case for himself as a standout competitor, having won eight games before adding a ninth in today's episode.

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Tallulah Pollard

Tallulah Pollard, who lives in Mount Airy, Maryland, recently graduated with an Engineering degree.

Thayer Warne

Thayer Warne is an editorial director from Denver, Colorado.

Jamie Ding

Jamie Ding is a bureaucrat and law student from Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Going into today, he had won eight straight games, winning $222,203.

Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category — Can You Answer the Clues?

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category "Writers on Writers."

The clue: Jane Austen called this English poet "infallible."

The answer: Who is Alexander Pope?

The situation approaching Final Jeopardy was a familiar one. Jamie finished the first two rounds will almost double the amount of the next-closest person (Thayer), which still meant there was a possibility of a last-minute comeback. But all three players got the answer wrong. While Tallulah and Thayer both risked everything, Jamie only put up $1,601. He ends the day with $23,599, for a grand total of $245,802 won so far.

Did you get the answer? Sign off in the comments!

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Thursday, March 26, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch, as some airtimes may shift due to the March Madness tournament.

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment's notice.

Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If 'Celebrity Jeopardy!' Questions Are Easier

There's nothing more enjoyable on Easter Day than a fun cake. And on Easter weekend, why not elevate your celebrations with a low-effort, high-reward dessert that the whole family can pitch in on?

Made with almost all store-bought ingredients and super easy to assemble, this cute bunny cake is a classic recipe pulled from a 1970s ad for Baker's Coconut. More than 50 years later, bakers on Reddit turn back to it every single Easter.

And while I don't have an Easter celebration to attend this year, I'm always in the mood to bake. So, I cranked on my oven to give this cutesy dessert a go. 

Get the recipe: Easter Bunny Cake

Ingredients for Easter Bunny Cake Ingredients for Easter Bunny Cake

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

This cake requires a few ingredients that can either be store-bought or homemade. You need two 9-inch cakes, canned frosting (or one recipe for homemade frosting), candy for decorating (see tips below), sweetened, shredded coconut and red or pink food coloring. 

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How to Make Easter Bunny Cake

Start by making your cakes. I decided to make my cakes from scratch and buy my frosting, but you do you. Set one cake round aside. Cut two football shapes from the top and bottom of the other cake round (as pictured below). These two pieces are the bunny ears. The shape in the center of that cake layer will be the bow tie.  

Cut cakes for Bunny Cake

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

Now it's time to assemble the cake. Place the uncut cake round in the center of a serving board. Place the football-sized cake pieces above the cake round to create bunny ears and the bow tie-shaped cake piece under the cake round. Frost the cake pieces on the tops and sides, then attach them together with a bit of frosting.

Related: 45 Easter Brunch Ideas That Are Perfect for Effortless Entertaining at Home

Cut pieces of cake for Bunny Cake

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

After frosting your cake pieces, sprinkle the cake with coconut. Dye a scant 1/4 cup of coconut with one drop of red or pink food coloring (I used magenta). Mix well and sprinkle on to create the middle of the bunny's ears.

Bunny Cake frosted with coconut

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

Now comes the creative part: decorating your Bunny Cake! Using Easter-themed sprinkles and jelly beans, add a pattern to your bow tie. Jelly beans can also be used for the bunny's nose and eyes. Whiskers and eyebrows can easily be made with Pull 'N' Peel Twizzlers, cut in various lengths. Of course, use what you have on hand and play around with the placement of the candy until you fall in love with his little bunny face.

Related: 9 Clever Easter Cupcakes That Will Win You All the Hostess-With-the-Mostess Awards

What I Thought of Easter Bunny Cake

I knew as soon as I saw this cake that it was going to be fun to make. And, of course, I will find any excuse to bake my very favorite vanilla cake recipe from Magnolia Bakery—it bakes up perfectly golden and tastes delicately moist with just a hint of vanilla. I wanted to maximize my decorating time, so I decided to go the store-bought route and picked up two cans of Duncan Hines vanilla frosting. 

I was skeptical of the directions for this one because I'm not the most confident in my cake-cutting skills. But visualizing this as two footballs (and sketching it out on a round of parchment before cutting) made the process a lot easier. 

Overall, this bunny cake sparked so much joy; I found it fun to decide what color and shape of candy to use for the bunny's facial features. I think it would be an excellent festive baking project to work on with kids. 

Although I may not have grand Easter plans this year, I'm betting that my friends and neighbors won't complain about getting a piece of this hoppy lil' guy.

Related: The Super Simple No-Bake Easter Dessert Fans Say They’d Eat Right Out of the Mixing Bowl

Finished Bunny Cake

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

Tips for Making Easter Bunny Cake

1. Buy extra ingredients. The recipe I followed suggested two cans of frosting and one bag of coconut, but I made sure that I had extra on hand—and I'm glad I did. I used just over one bag of coconut (I had to cover up some mistakes) and used every last drop of frosting from both cans. 
2. Play around with your candy. Think of the possibilities when you go down the Easter candy aisle. Robin's eggs, jelly beans, sprinkles and my personal fave—Cadbury Mini Eggs—would all be delicious and very cute on this cake.
3. Buy a big board. I knew I didn't have a serving platter large enough for this bunny, so instead, I grabbed a large piece of foam core for $3 at the craft store. It was a cinch to decorate on, is easy to transport and when I'm finished with it, there's zero clean up.

Related: 20 Egg-Cellent Deviled Egg Recipes That Work for Easter and Springtime

Changes from book to screen are inevitable. Some of this is due to time constraints, but a lot of it, especially in science fiction, is to do with the format of storytelling. When it comes to Project Hail Mary, the changes from the Andy Weir novel to the screen are big, and in some cases, they were needed.

That’s not to say Project Hail Mary isn’t worth the read. Every element of that novel is beautifully crafted, but for the sake of a movie, there are bits that definitely needed to be skipped and adapted. Here are the five biggest changes from book to screen.

Cutting Out Much of the Book’s Beginnings

The start of Project Hail Mary is lengthy. We get the entire coma plot and then there’s the process of Ryland Grace waking up from that coma. There are a few elements of the story that get repetitive, but it works for the narrative, and a lot of this was taken out of the movie.

This meant that repetitive elements from the book were removed. Instead of Ryland waking up from a coma, he wakes up after his whole crew has been killed. He doesn’t nede to remember things as simple as 2+2 or how to climb a ladder. It helps to streamline the whole process, which Project Hail Mary continues to do with the scientific elements of it.

In a way, it makes it better for the movie. For the book, though, there’s a level of empathy and dread for Grayson when he wakes up from that coma that the movie was missing.

Ryland Doesn’t Seem as Smart in the Movie

As mentioned, the science elements of the novel are streamlined in the movie. That can make it easier for the viewer to understand, but it does take away from some of Ryland’s personality. In the novel, he is a smart man, and it’s easy to see how he could even potentially survive on his own.

In the movies, he doesn’t seem as smart. It takes away some of the realism from the storyline, but not enough to totally destroy the plot. Ryland is more humorous in the movie than he is in the novel, and I do think that makes it more entertaining from a viewer point of view, and it’s great for those who haven’t read the books yet. It also suits Ryan Gosling’s personality a little more.

I just miss the super smart nerd in the spacecraft. It’s okay to add some science to the fiction, as The Martian proved.

The Addition of Officer Carl

In a novel, the main character can talk to himself and we can hear him perfectly fine. Everything is told through the narration, and it’s something that many books do. In a movie, things are different, and it gets boring watching one character just talk to themselves. It’s rare that an actor can command the screen for so long, and I still stand by one of the only times it’s worked was during one episode of Peter Capaldi’s era on Doctor Who.

The movie gets around the problem of Ryland talking to himself through the introduction of Officer Carl, a character not in the books at all. When he couldn’t talk to Carl, he was able to talk to the ship’s operating system, Mary, more than he did in the books. It was certainly a welcome and worthy change to make.

The Addition of the Tattoo

There were a few changes to Eva Stratt in the movie to, arguably, make her more likable to the viewers. However, there was a subtle addition if you looked closely. She has a tattoo that is a V with a line through it. This was an idea from Weir, according to SYFY.

Stratt was put through the wringer while on Earth, and it’s possible that she ended up in a French prison. The tattoo was a symbol of her getting life without parole, but she’s clearly able to escape thanks to her own connections.

This doesn’t change too much in the form of the story. It adds a layer of detail that couldn’t make it to the books, but also helps to explain elements that couldn’t quite make it to the movie storytelling.

Finding Out It Was All Worth It

It’s always important to know that a sacrifice was worth making. That’s the whole point of these stories, and the Project Hail Mary book doesn’t quite do that. It does leave a lot of questions open, and in a way, that can be a good thing as it leaves us questioning and discussing.

However, the ending of the Project Hail Mary movie brings closure that’s needed. We get to see that Ryland’s sacrifice was worth it. The Earth has been saved, which was always implied in the book. Could the movie have worked without it? I’m honestly not sure, and that’s why it’s such a worthy change.

Project Hail Mary does an excellent job of recreating the books. The small changes don’t affect too much of the overall story, and for the most part, help to strengthen it.