BBG NEWS

Having served in the Iraq War and having some familiarity with the Call of Duty games, I worry the upcoming movie will be a typical action film that romanticizes war and heroically portrays its survivors. My experience with the games actually came during my deployment to Iraq – a fellow soldier had an Xbox and TV in our living quarters, and many of us, including those who had seen combat, would unwind by playing. Listening to people play, it became clear that the game’s only real link to actual warfare was the chatter during gameplay.

In a recent, lengthy interview with The Times, McKellen discussed a wide range of topics. The conversation inevitably turned to The Hunt for Gollum, and when it did, McKellen stated firmly, “I won’t let anyone else play Gandalf.” He then went on to share more details about the film.

As a fan, I’m always thinking about all the little details in the books, and there are so many theories floating around! It’s exciting to hope some of them will be proven true or explored further in future adaptations. One thing I’ve noticed is that the Christmas gifts the Dursleys sent Harry – which were mentioned in the books but left out of the movies – always make me wonder if they were more significant than they seemed.

What truly explains the show’s enduring appeal? It’s more than just dramatic stories. It’s Olivia Benson, portrayed by Mariska Hargitay, who gradually became the heart of the series. Over time, the show transformed from a simple crime drama into a story focused on Benson’s personal growth, challenges, and resilience. Viewers are invested in her journey as a leader and a survivor, and that’s what keeps them watching.

This crime thriller isn’t a Netflix original, but it first aired on NBC and Peacock and is now in its second season. It quickly became popular with viewers, earning an 83% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, despite mixed reviews from critics.