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Hi, {{first_name | friend}}!
A conversation with my friend who teaches high school unlocked a long-buried TV show from my memory this week. They were sharing how, in an effort to combat cheating, they put a fake answer key on their desk, left the room, and waited to see if any students took the bait.
The whole setup reminded me of Bait Car, an old (and diabolical) hidden-camera show where undercover officers would park a running car in a high-crime area, leave it unattended, and wait. All of this got me thinking: What's a weird show or movie you think people have forgotten about, for better or worse? Reply to this email to let me know.
Quick ask while I’ve got you: we’ve made a handful of changes lately to the look and feel of these newsletters, and we’d love to know how it’s all landing. Share your thoughts here (it only takes 30 seconds)!
While you rack your brain trying to remember a forgotten piece of entertainment, keep reading to discover the new shows and movies releasing this weekend. Let’s get into it!
Yours,
John
Film & Television Content Manager @ Pix
Current 📺: DTF St. Louis
Quick links
The Reviews Are In
Some weeks, critics play nice. This week, they decided to tell us how they really feel.
“a frustratingly predictable conclusion”
—Vulture
“One of the year’s wildest, sharpest movies”
—Collider
“one of the least successful [FRANCHISE] adaptations yet”
—Empire
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The Biggest Premieres of the Weekend
A big weekend at the box office: Star Wars returns to cinemas, a surreal sci-fi crime movie, and more. Here are the two worth the ticket price.
I Love Boosters
In theaters now
Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, and Taylour Paige play shoplifters waging war on a cutthroat fashion mogul (Demi Moore) by stealing her clothes and reselling them at a discount. They call it "fashion-forward philanthropy." From director Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You), so there’s no doubt it’s going to be wild.
The Mandalorian and Grogu
In theaters now
The Empire has fallen, but Imperial warlords are scattered across the galaxy. The New Republic has called on Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his apprentice Grogu to clean up. Originally developed as Season 4 of The Mandalorian show, this Star Wars story is hitting theaters instead.
The full list:
Hotel Spotlight
Together with Inside Hotels
Courtyard Marriott LAX
The Vibe: Luxe layover
The Location: Los Angeles, California
Instaworthy Accommodations:
Located just steps from LAX, Courtyard Los Angeles LAX/Century Boulevard offers seamless arrival and departure with a 24-hour complimentary airport shuttle. Guest rooms are thoughtfully equipped with plush bedding, soundproof windows, laptop-friendly workspaces, and access to your favorite shows on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO. Start your day with light bites at The Bistro, or recharge at the fitness center with Peloton® bikes. With electric vehicle charging stations, on-site convenience store, and easy access to Venice Beach, Santa Monica and the South Bay, this stay blends practical comfort with relaxed California style.
Guess the Movie: Poorly Explained Plots
Amateur stuntman saves his stepfather's life so he can finally beat him up.
Trailer of the Day
Little Brother
A real estate agent's carefully curated world gets upended when his unhinged "little brother" comes crashing back into his life. John Cena and Eric André play the brothers in what looks like the buddy-comedy duo we didn't know we needed! Coming to Netflix June 26.
Hotel Spotlight
Together with Inside Hotels
The Muse New York
The Vibe: Chic digs in the middle of it all
The Location: New York, NY
Instaworthy Accommodations:
The Muse brings modern sophistication to Midtown with rooms and suites inspired by Broadway legends and New York’s timeless style. Spa-like bathrooms, plush bedding, and private balconies overlooking the city create a stay that’s equal parts chic and comfortable. Perfect for every type of traveler, The Muse offers adjoining rooms for families, pet-friendly perks (complete with welcome treats for furry companions), and a location that puts you just steps from Times Square, Broadway, and Rockefeller Center. After a day exploring, unwind with craft cocktails and bites at Little Opus.
Coming Soon
🌶️ Cate Blanchett and Selena Gomez set to star in an ‘X-Rated’ epic.
✨ Watch the teaser for Season 2 of One Hundred Years of Solitude.
🚀 Brandon Sanderson's Skyward novel is getting a show adaptation.