California Is Ditching the Death Penalty — and Other States May Soon Follow

Kat Armstrong
Mar 13, 2019

California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, is set to announce a halt to the death penalty in the state on Wednesday, March 13. The move will grant a temporary reprieve to the 737 incarcerated people currently awaiting execution.

“I do not believe that a civilized society can claim to be a leader in the world as long as its government continues to sanction the premeditated and discriminatory execution of its people,” Newsom will reportedly say in his prepared remarks, according to theNew York Times. “In short, the death penalty is inconsistent with our bedrock values and strikes at the very heart of what it means to be a Californian.”

But Californians have, time and time again, voted in favor of retaining the death penalty, most recently in 2016. California Proposition 62, which was on the ballot during the 2016 general election, asked Californians if they wanted to repeal the death penalty. They overwhelmingly voted in favor of keeping the death penalty in tact.

The death penalty has been an ongoing debate in the state since the early 1970s.

Back in February 1972, the state’s Supreme Court ruled that the state’s capital punishment system was “impermissible cruel and unusual punishment.” In the case California v. Anderson, the courts declared that the death penalty is “unnecessary to any legitimate goal of the state and [is] incompatible with the dignity of man and the judicial process.”

Several months after California’s groundbreaking ruling, the US Supreme Court ruled on the case Furman v. Georgia, in which the plaintiff argued that a death penalty sentencing for murder in the accidental death of a man in the plaintiff’s home during a burglary was cruel and unusual. SCOTUS voted 5-4 for Furman, stating that the death penalty was inconsistently and arbitrarily applied to the case. This caused a de facto pause of the use of the death penalty across the country. But it wouldn’t last.

By 1977, the death penalty was reinstated in California, and the following year, the state made a legal amendment that all death penalty cases would immediately go to a court of appeals. In the years since, many death row inmates have challenged their sentences based on the state’s use of a potentially painful three-drug lethal injection protocol that many deem inhumane. In fact, since the late 1970s, only 13 death sentence recipients have actually been executed in the state. There hasn’t been a state-sponsored execution in California since 2006.

As the nation’s most populous state, California remains the state that many others across the country look to to set legal precedents. “It is a state people look to to set the tone for national policy,” Shilpi Agarwal, a staff attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union in San Francisco, told the Times. “The fact that so many states have abolished the death penalty — but California hasn’t — has given people cover for this narrative that people are still supportive the death penalty.”

Newsom has long been anti-death penalty, arguing particularly that racial injustice plays heavily into the state’s death penalty system, and that the cost greatly outweighs any perceived benefit. In February, he intervened in the case of Kevin Cooper, a man wrongly convicted of four murders in 1983, ordering DNA testing that could prove his innocence. Since the 1970s, more than 150 people across the country have been exonerated for wrongful convictions in death penalty cases.

(Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Benny Blanco Basically Just Said He Wants Kids With Selena Gomez

Things are heating up betweenSelena Gomez and Benny Blanco since late last year to the surprise of some, but it seems like the couple's romance is just getting started. They're not shy about PDA and posting each other on social media and pretty much telling anyone who doesn't like it to get lost. We love how fiercely supportive they are of each other, giving us so many good green flags! Here's everything we know about the lovely new couple so far.

Selena Gomez And Benny Blanco's Relationship Timeline:

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

March 2019

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco first collaborated on the song "I Can't Get Enough" along with Tainy and J. Balvin in 2019. Though they were featured in a cute scene together, there weren't any rumors about them being romantically linked then.

August 2023

They didn't work together again until late summer 2023 when he produced Selena's single "Single Soon" with Cashmere Cat.

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

December 2023

Before 2023 ended, Selena started leaving comments on Instagram that suggested she and Benny Blanco were in fact together. One of the comments she left appear on this Instagram fan page and it reads, "He is my absolute everything in my heart."

Some fans weren't so thrilled to see the two together though and they weren't afraid to express their opinions. But, this only prompted Selena to leave more comments that defended her relationship with Benny.

People grabbed a screenshot of one of the comments Selena responded that revealed the couple had been together for a while. "Not mad. It’s been 6 months bb. I will always defend my friends, family and fans till the day I die," she wrote. They even shared another screenshot from Selena's Instagram Story that showed her wearing a "B" ring on one of her fingers.

Image via Craig Barritt/Getty Images for TIME

December 15, 2023

Soon after that, Selena shared a photo carousel on Instagram that included some of her favorite moments in New York and Benny Blanco can be seen in BTS moments. The last picture of the carousel features them sharing a kiss in a black and white photo that basically confirms the responses the singer had for fans.

December 28, 2023

Before the new year began, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco spent some time at a cute art exhibit during a date. From the looks of things, it seemed like they discovered their love language of physical touch early on.

Image via Presley Ann/Getty Images for GQ

January 2, 2024

Feeling the love of being with Selena, Benny Blanco took to Instagram Stories to officially signal that the two are dating. People grabbed a few more screenshots that Benny shared and all we can see is the happy glint that was in Selena's eyes.

Image via Sarah Stier/Getty Images

January 3, 2024

The next day the couple were seen court side at one of the Los Angeles Lakers' game. Once again, their love language was on full display in the most intimate way. A source revealed to People that they understood why people had so many opinions about Selena's relationship with Benny. "Everyone was a fan of hers before Only Murders [in the Building], and now everyone is protective of her."

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

January 15, 2024

Later that month, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco showed up to the Emmy Awards together. They were sitting side-by-side and weren't afraid to show affection with each other.

Image via Jesse Grant/Getty Images for AFI

March 2024

When Benny Blanco's birthday rolled around, Selena Gomez shared a sweet message to him on Instagram. She wrote, "Happy birthday baby! Your emotional endurance, positive disposition, unbelievable talent (that blows me away), undeniable humor and loving, kind heart absolutely kill me. I love you @itsbennyblanco 🎂🥹."

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

April 2024

Although we're only four months into the new year, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's relationship is still going strong! The Only Murders in the Building star has been seen smiling in every pic she posts which indicates she's genuinely happy in her relationship. A source hinted to People that the two are doing well. "It’s a very serious relationship, and they’re making long distance work while she’s in New York for work commitments," they said.

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Spotify

April 25, 2024

In an interview with WSJ, Benny Blanco gave his POV of how his relationship with Selena Gomez began and it was the cutest revelation. "It’s crazy how your partner could just be sitting there the whole time, right in front of your eyes...And then you have a Clueless moment where you're like, Wait, I'm in love," he says.

A man who compares his relationship to that moment in Clueless where Cher and Josh admit their feelings for each other gets brownie points from us!

May 15, 2024

It looks like Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's relationship may be ready for the next step — that's if you ask Mr. Blanco. He appeared on The Howard Stern Show yesterday to chat about everything, including his relationship with Selena. When Howard Stern asked, "You want to have kids with Selena? Have you told her you want to have kids yet," Benny replied, "That’s my next goal, to check the box. I have a ton of godkids. I've got a ton of nephews. I love being around kids."

However, he's not in a rush and wants everything to happen naturally. All that matters is that the two of them are in each other's life. He said, "I just know that when I look at her, I just say, ‘I don’t know a world where it could be better than this.’ That’s what I always say to her.”

What do you think about Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's relationship?Follow us on Facebook for more celebrity news!

Lead images via Jesse Grant/Getty Images for AFI and Amy Sussman/Getty Images

This post has been updated.

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Our Favorite AAPI Brands To Shop This Month — And Always!

We love to celebrate and support all different types of fabulous AAPI founders, and one way to do so is by shopping their incredible products! I know I'm not alone when I say I love coming across new brands, especially if they're BIPOC or women-owned. And while I'm sure you don't think you need a cute new slip dress or hand-poured candle, I'm confident you'll find something to snag from one of the below AAPI brands!

AAPI Fashion & Beauty Finds To Shop

Ming Wang Knits Midi Slip Dress

This cute slip dress is full of summer colors like flamenco and pale marigold that make it impossible to look away from. The pleated detail adds depth and dimension to the dress while the smart color blocking style gives it a versatile appeal. Have a cute summer soiree or daytime wedding to attend? This dress has your name on it.

Misook Midi Fit & Flare Dress

Black dresses will always be trendy because of their chic factor. Misook's fit and flare dress has a button-front design that has exposed stitching on the front, but don't let that deter you. If anything, that's what helps this dress stand out from the crowd.

The other thing that I absolutely adore about it is that it features hidden side pockets. They may not be needed, but they're certainly welcomed here!

If you want to look like the ultimate "it girl" this summer, add this midi dress to your shopping cart ASAP!

Pistola Denim Aria Jumpsuit

If you're not sure if you want to wear denim dresses this summer, give jumpsuits a chance! They're the epitome of cool and make you look stylish with minimal effort.

Pistola Denim designed their retro denim jumpsuit to have comfortable stretch (so important) so you can move around without feeling like you're being restricted by the fabric. Whether you want to pair it with cowboy boots or a cute pair of heels is up to you!

Maile Kitty Heel in Black Canvas

Since we're on the subject of how the color black makes things look good, Maile's black canvas heels have stolen the heart of the fashionista that lives in a portion of my mind. They're the epitome of 90s style and will look good with Misook's midi black dress.

Since the heel height is under 4 inches, you'll feel comfortable sauntering from place to place.

Behno Tina Baguette Mini Pebbled Ruched (Buttercream)

Butter yellow is the color of the summer and Behno's tiny baguette basically confirms it. The exterior is designed with supple leather and it comes with a chain crossbody strap in case you get tired of holding it in your hand.

I happen to love that it comes in a dust bag to signal the luxurious quality of it. Although it's a mini bag, your cellphone, wallet, keys, a pair of sunglasses, and lip oils can fit inside without an issue!

Ming Yu Wang Orbita Earrings

There are a ton of earrings on the market, but this pair stands out with their orbital design. They're rhodium plated and recycled with cute multicolored resin objects that line the inside of them. Whether you want to wear them daily or reserve them for a special date night, these earrings are sure to be the center of attention wherever you go.

These earrings are sure to sell fast during AAPI month so make sure you order a pair today!

BONBONWHIMS Heart Gumdrop Tennis Necklace (Deep Red)

Haven't you heard? Tenniscore is in and we have the Challengers film to thank for that. I love that this necklace has featured on the TODAY show according to BONBONWHIMS' site and is 18K sterling silver-plated.

Those of us with sensitive skin know that we have to be careful when we wear certain jewelery because certain things trigger allergic reactions, but BONBONWHIMS isn't hearing any of that with this hypoallergenic necklace.

It's also available in different colors should you find that you're not a fan of the deep red color.

AMYO Tiny Starburst Earrings

These 14K earrings are a perfect buy during AAPI Month due to their dainty design. Featuring cubic zirconia stones in the center of the dangly shapes, you won't lose the back of your earrings because they also have a click close design that makes putting and taking them off super easy.

Notte Amore Mio Charm Necklace

I can safely wear statement necklaces again now that my son is almost four so I'm proud to say Notte's Amore Mio charm necklace is a bias pick.It has a thick gold-plated moon-cut chain and several charms that will make any outfit you wear feel stylish.

You can also customize one of the charms to feature your Zodiac sign and it's a handmade necklace.

YENSA AAPI Month Kit

In honor of AAPI Month, YENSA has curated a collection of their skincare staples! You'll find the brand's Super Glow Radiance Polishing Mask, Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Face Cream, and their Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Eye Creaminside of the kit.

ONE/SIZE On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray

If there's one person whose makeup judgement I trust, it's Patrick Starrr. Known for creating memorable makeup looks on YouTube, Starrr founded ONE/SIZE as a way to celebrate underrepresented cultures and voices.

This is just one of the standout products that I not only stand by, but it even has Beyoncé's stamp of approval! Besides being waterproof, it offers up to 16 hours of protection from the elements.

Seriously, you need this setting spray if you're looking for something that'll keep your makeup intact without irritating your skin.

Avatara The Simple Shield Balancing Moisturizer + SPF 30

Need a balancing moisturizer that also protects your skin from the sun? Avatara wants to introduce you to The Simple Shield!

Made with SPF 30, you'll also find things like hyaluronic acid and ceramides inside. While one works to add moisture to your skin, the other locks it in place. In Avatara's words, think of this like a "skin-balancing Kombucha."

No wonder it's one of their bestselling products!

Apothékary Glow Getter Starter Set

Sometimes we all deal with dullness regardless of our skin type, but Apothékary has a solution that all but banishes that: their Glow Getter Starter Set. It's full of collagen-boosting and skin-restoring goodies that are meant to have lasting effects on the skin. Included in the set are:

  • Firm Believer: a collagen-boosting herbal formula that helps produce glowing skin
  • You Dew You: a skin-restoring formula that's antioxidant-rich and soothes skin inflammation
  • Formula Frother
  • Gold Daily Remedy Spoon

DAMDAM Skin Mud Pure Vitamin C Brightening Mask

Vitamin C has been a game changer for my skin so I always look for products that include it like DAMDAM's Skin Mud Pure Vitamin C Brightening Mask. If you have oily or combination skin like me, you'll love that it helps minimize pores, tackle any elasticity issues you're facing, and help balance your skin's natural oils.

While I could rave about Vitamin C all day, this mask also has kaolin clay in it and is certified as being plant aware at Sephora!

AAPI Home, Kitchen, and Lifestyle Brands To Shop

Aerangis No. 40 LIvraria Antiga

This candle is so book-lovers coded because it's scent is described as 'sandalwood and old books.' It's meant to offer a grounding experience with a hint of romance whenever lit, making it the perfect companion to your new "romantansy" book. The full notes are:

  • Top: Ceylon Pepper, Saffron, Lemon Peel
  • Middle: Rose, Patchouli, Sandalwood
  • Base: Vanilla, Birch Resin

You'll also get 50 hours of burn time without inhaling toxic fumes!

Copper Cow Coffee Vanilla Ground Coffee

This coffee may make you breakup with Starbucks beyond AAPI Month. You can trust that you're getting 100% Vietnamese coffee that's a delicious blend of robusta and arabica, and is also sustainably sourced. The vanilla beans are very real and ground into absolute perfection so you can serve coffee however you want at home.

Want to make a cold brew or rely on your french press? Copper Cow Coffee makes it easy for you to follow your coffee-loving heart's desires.

Blume Matcha Coconut Blend

Blume has a yummy Matcha Coconut Blend that's going to replace your favorite morning drink soon. Instead of giving you coffee jitters, this organic blend from the Shizuoka region of Japan will give you the flavor and boost of energy you need.

It's a nice blend of stone-ground, hand-picked matcha and antioxidant-rich moringa that'll make you want to stand on your balcony or patio in the morning while sipping it. It's also balanced with L-theanine which is why you won't experience the usual side effects of drinking coffee.

And get this: you'll be able to make 30 lattes with this blend!

Potluck Combo Set of Gochujang and Ssamjang

Tired of relying on the same rotation of seasonings and flavorings when cooking? Well, it's time to introduce your kitchen to Potluck's combo set of Gochujang and Ssamjang! They're sweet and spicy Korean pastes that'll help you create an excellent marinade to use on whatever light lunchmeal you're eating.

There are no additional sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives in these yummy tastes you'll be glad you discovered during AAPI month.

Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp

If you're not familiar with Fly By Jing yet, now really is the time to find your new fave sauce! Founded by Jing Gao, she sought to reclaim her original name — instead of going by Jenny like she had for years — and introduce the flavors of her hometown (Chengdu) to others. This viral condiment comes in six different flavors, with the Sichuan Chili Crisp being the most popular. The other options you have are:

Muu Wearable Breast Pumps

Since Mother's Day should be everyday IMO, it wouldn't be right if I didn't include something for breastfeeding mamas. Founded by first-generation Korean-American Janice Gott, Muu is an affordable, mom-designed wearable breast pump that makes pumping easier. Although wireless breast pumps have become popular, this is another option if you're worried about whether you've charged it enough when you're on the go.

That's where rising AAPI product designer Tiffany Tao steps in. She specifically designed Muu to be hands and fuss-free so you can pump whenever you need to.

Have a board meeting to attend that coincides with your pumping schedule? Muu will be right there. Out with your friends and realize you're overdo for a pumping session? Muu will be in your purse ready to spring into action when you're in need.

What are your favorite AAPI brands to shop? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Copper Cow Coffee

This post has been updated.

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The 26 Most-Anticipated Summer Movies For 2024

While the summer of 2023 (AKA the summer of Barbie and The Summer I Turned Pretty and Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, hello!) is over, there is still plenty to look forward to in 2024. Things are a little bit more relaxed on the new TV show front, which means all my energy can go towards watching as many movies as I can. We've already made our way through this year's winter movies and spring movies, and up next: 2024 summer movies. Keep reading for all the best 2024 movies to watch after a long day on vacation ;). And after you've seen all these new movies, check out these 6 Nostalgic Movies That Feel Like Summer Vacation!

Hit Man — On Netflix June 7, 2024

Image via Netflix

Glen Powell isn't slowing down after Anyone But You, and his first movie of 2024 is Hit Man, where he stars as a Houston, Texas undercover cop posing as a hitman. When he meets a woman stuck in an abusive marriage, and then falls for her, he decides to break protocol to help her. Watch the Hit Man trailer here.

Hit Man premieres June 7 and stars Austin Amelio, Adria Arjona, Glen Powell, and Retta.

The Crow — In Theaters June 7, 2024

Image via Lionsgate

Eric and Shelly are soulmates in this modern adaptation of James O’Barr's graphic novel. But when Shelly's past catches up to them, and the couple is murdered, Eric has an opportunity: save his one true love by sacrificing himself. What follows is a merciless quest for revenge, and the desire to bring their murderers to justice.

The Crow hits theaters June 7 and stars Bill Skarsgård, FKA twigs, and Danny Huston.

Bad Boys: Ride Or Die — In Theaters June 7, 2024

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Following 2020's Bad Boys For Life, this new summer movie has the action and hilarious comedy that you expect from the franchise. This time, Mike and Marcus are on the run themselves, which is sure to add even more chaos than before.

Bad Boys: Ride Or Die hits theaters June 7 and stars Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Nuñez, Eric Dane, Ioan Gruffudd, Jacob Scipio, Melanie Liburd, Tasha Smith, Tiffany Haddish, and Joe Pantoliano.

The Watchers — In Theaters June 14, 2024

Image via Warner Bros. Entertainment

Dakota Fanning is back in this new horror thriller that follows Mina, an artist who gets stranded in a huge, untouched Irish forest. Things take a turn for the better when Mina finds shelter with three strangers — until she learns they're being watched by mysterious creatures every single night.

The Watchers hits theaters June 14, and stars Dakota Fanning, Georgina Campbell, Oliver Finnegan, and Olwen Fouere.

​Inside Out 2 — In Theaters June 14, 2024

Image via Disney/Pixar

Like all Pixar sequels, Inside Out 2 has evolved with its main character Riley as she grows into a teenager. But that means there's a new emotion in town — Anxiety — and she's not going anywhere (don't I know it). This summer movie promises to be just as colorful and emotional as the first one, and I can't wait to cry in my chair at the theater. Watch the Inside Out 2 trailer here.

Inside Out 2 hits theaters June 14, 2024 and stars Lewis Black, Tony Hale, Maya Hawke, Liza Lapira, Diane Lane Amy Poehler, and Phyllis Smith.

The Bikeriders — In Theaters June 21, 2024

Image via Focus Features

Your favorite actors like Austin Butler, Mike Faist, and Jodie Comer are back in this edgy summer movie, which follows a Chicago motorcycle club for over a decade. While the story is fictional, it was inspired by the real 1967 photobook by Danny Lyon! Watch The Bikeriders trailer here.

The Bikeriders hits theaters June 21, 2024 and stars Austin Butler, Jodie Comer, Mike Faist, Tom Hardy, Boyd Holbrook, Norman Reedus, and Michael Shannon.

Janet Planet — In Theaters June 21, 2024

Image via A24

It's the summer of 1991 and 11-year-old Lacy has nothing but her imagination and her mother to keep her company — neither of which she minds. That is, until they get three visitors who pull her mother's attention away. This summer movie holds incredible tension between a deep mother-daughter relationship and figuring out pre-teen independence.

Janet Planet will release on June 21 and stars Julianne Nicholson, Zoe Ziegler, Elias Koteas, Will Patton, and Sophie Okonedo.

Kinds of Kindness — In Theaters June 21, 2024

Image via Searchlight Pictures

After the success of Poor Things, Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos are reuniting for a brand new summer movie. Kinds of Kindness is an anthology movie, tying together three different stories full of memorable characters. Knowing Yorgos, the movie will be wild, wacky, and absolutely memorable.

Kinds of Kindness hits theaters June 21 and stars Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, and Hunter Schafer.

Firebrand — In Theaters June 21, 2024

Image via Roadside Attractions/Vertical

History lovers won't be able to get enough of this summer movie, which follows Katherine Parr as she fights to survive the final months of Henry VIII's life. It's a realistic and brutal take on Tudor England, but promises to be more than compelling.

Firebrand hits theaters June 21 and stars Alicia Vikander, Jude Law, Eddie Marsan, Sam Riley, Simon Russell Beale, and Erin Doherty.

A Family Affair — On Netflix June 28, 2024

Image via Netflix

Summer rom-coms are back and better than ever thanks to A Family Affair ! The summer movie follows Zara (Joey King), who's left reeling when her mother (Nicole Kidman) strikes up a relationship with her famous actor boss (Zac Efron). And, as expected, hilarity unfolds from there.

A Family Affair hits Netflix June 28 and stars Joey King, Zac Efron, Nicole Kidman, Liza Koshy, and Kathy Bates.

A Quiet Place: Day One — In Theaters June 28, 2024

Image via Paramount Pictures

While we got a glimpse of A Quiet Place: Day One at CinemaCon, we'll finally get to see the whole story when it hits theaters at the end of June! The movie will open on the first day the alien Death Angels came to earth (which we briefly saw in A Quiet Place 2). Watch The A Quiet Place: Day One trailer here.

A Quiet Place: Day One hits theaters June 28, 2024. The movie stars Djimon Hounsou, Lupita Nyong’o, Denis O’Hare Joseph Quinn, and Alex Wolff.

Horizon: An American Saga: Chapter 1 — In Theaters June 28

Image via Warner Bros.

You're going to want to add this summer movie to your list of favorite Westerns. The film covers 1861 to 1865 during the Civil War, and explores themes of family, identity, and good and evil as the United States goes to war. Chapter 2 will premiere August 16.

Horizon: An American Saga: Chapter 1 hits theaters June 28. The movie stars Kevin Costner, Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone, Owen Crow Shoe, Tatanka Means, Ella Hunt, Isabelle Fuhrman, and Jamie Campbell Bower.

Despicable Me 4 — In Theaters July 3, 2024

Image via Illumination

This is one animated sequel I cannot wait to watch in theaters — even if we can't partake in the Gentleminion TikTok trend anymore. Gru and his family are up against a new villain, voiced by Will Ferrell (who played a not-quite-cutthroat villain in Barbie). The whole gang is back together, including a new baby Gru Jr.! Watch the Despicable Me 4 trailer here.

Despicable Me 4 hits theaters July 3 and stars Steve Carell, Pierre Coffin, Steve Coogan, Miranda Cosgrove, Joey King, Will Ferrell, Sofia Vergara, and Kristen Wiig.

MaXXXine — In Theaters July 5, 2024

Image via A24

Mia Goth is back for another stint as Maxine and I'm happy to report that, after the clip of Maxine screaming "I'm a star" went viral across social media, she FINALLY gets her big break. But when Hollywood's newest stars begin turning up dead, Maxine's future is threatened by her past secrets.

MaXXXine hits theaters July 5 and stars Mia Goth, Elizabeth Debicki, Moses Sumney, Michelle Monaghan, Bobby Cannavale, Halsey, Lily Collins, Giancarlo Esposito, and Kevin Bacon.

Fly Me To The Moon — In Theaters July 12, 2024

Image via Apple TV+

If you loved the vintage style of Lessons in Chemistry, you'll definitely want to press play on Fly Me To The Moon. Set during the Apollo 11 moon landing, the new movie follows Kelly Jones, a marketing expert tasked with fixing NASA's public image, while launch director Cole Davis is just trying to get the mission off the ground (literally).

Fly Me To The Moon hits theaters July 12 and stars Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum, Nick Dillenburg, and Anna Garcia.

Descendants: Rise of Red — On Disney+ July 12, 2024

Image via Disney+

'90s kids, rejoice — Brandy's back! After starring in Best. Christmas. Ever!, the singer and actress is reprising her iconic role as Cinderella in this new Descendants installment. Uma is now headmaster of Auradon Prep, and when she invites the Queen of Heart's daughter Red to join her, the Queen uses it as an opportunity to get revenge on Cinderella.

Descendants: Rise of Red hits Disney+ July 12 and stars Brandy, Rita Ora, Kylie Cantrall, Malia Baker, China Anne McClain, Jeremy Swift, Dara Reneé, Ruby Rose Turner.

Longlegs — In Theaters July 12, 2024

Image via NEON

FBI Agent Lee Harker is an FBI Agent who's assigned to a serial killer case that's never been solved. When the case takes an unexpected turn — and shows evidence of occult activity — Harker is horrified to learn he has a personal connection to the killer. Watch the Longlegs trailer here.

Longlegs hits theaters July 12 and stars Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Alicia Witt and Blair Underwood.

Twisters — In Theaters July 19, 2024

Image via Universal Pictures/Warner Bros.

Glen Powell returns to our screens again in Twisters with a star-studded cast. This summer movie seems to serve as a sequel to the original 1996 film, with just as much disaster and pure terror to help it stand on its own. Hold on folks, we're in for a bumpy ride. Watch the Twisters trailer here.

Twisters hits theaters July 19, 2024 and stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Sasha Lane, Brandon Perea, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, and Maura Tierney.

Deadpool 3 (Deadpool & Wolverine) — In Theaters July 26, 2024

Image via Marvel Studios/Disney

The MCU is in for a wild ride with Ryan Reynolds'Deadpool & Wolverine. Not only is the TVA involved and Hugh Jackman is bringing the X-Men into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but we might also see Taylor Swift make an appearance as a brand new character. (Yes, please!). Watch the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer here.

Deadpool 3 hits theaters July 26, 2024 and stars Morena Baccarin, Emma Corrin, Brianna Hildebrand, Hugh Jackman, Stefan Kapičić, Matthew Macfadyen, and Ryan Reynolds.

My Old Ass — In Select Theaters August 2, 2024

Image via Amazon MGM Studios

Elliot is totally not expecting to meet her future self, but when the shock finally wears off, she agrees not to fall in love. She feels confident in her decision, thanks to her own advice, but everything changes when she meets the boy her older self warned her about.

My Old Ass will have a limited theatrical run starting August 2. The movie stars Maisy Stella, Aubrey Plaza, Maddie Ziegler, Kerrice Brooks, and Percy Hynes White.

Harold And The Purple Crayon — In Theaters August 2, 2024

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

The Harold we all knew as kids has grown up and drawn himself right off the pages of his book. Now, he's got to figure out how to operate in the real world — especially once the power of unlimited imagination (AKA his purple crayon) gets into the wrong hands.

Harold And The Purple Crayon hits theaters August 2 and stars Zachary Levi, Lil Rel Howery, Benjamin Bottani, Jemaine Clement, Tanya Reynolds, Alfred Molina, and Zooey Deschanel.

Borderlands — In Theaters August 9, 2024

Image via Lionsgate

Fans of The Last of Us will want to strap in for this video game adaptation (and not just because it's written by TLOU showrunner Craig Mazin!). The movie follows treasure hunter Lilith, who returns to her home planet of Pandora to find a missing girl, and the rag-tag team she puts together along the way. Watch the Borderlands trailer here.

Borderlands hits theaters August 9, 2024 and stars Jack Black, Cate Blanchett, Ariana Greenblatt, Kevin Hart, Jamie Lee Curtis, Gina Gerson, Florian Munteanu, and Edgar Ramierez.

It Ends With Us — In Theaters August 9, 2024

Image via Amazon

When Lily Bloom falls in love with Ryle, she's excited to start their life together. But she never expects her first love, Atlas, to reenter the picture — or for all the consequences that come with them reconnecting.

It Ends With Us premieres June 21 and stars Blake Lively, Jenny Slate, Brandon Sklenar, Justin Baldoni, and Hasan Minhaj.

Alien: Romulus — In Theaters August 16, 2024

Image via 20th Century Studios

This follow-up to the iconic Alien franchise is for sci-fi and action lovers! The summer movie follows a group of young space colonizers on a mission to explore an abandoned space station. But the deeper the go, they closer they get to the most terrifying life form in the whole universe.

Alien: Romulus hits theaters August 16, 2024 and stars Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu.

Blink Twice — In Theaters August 23, 2024

Image via Amazon MGM Studios

Frida is a cocktail waitress who gets whisked away from her regular life to philanthropist Slater King's private island. But the more time she spends on the intoxicating island, the more she realizes just how unsettling — and horrifying — it really is.

Blink Twice hits theaters August 23 and stars Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, Christian Slater, Alia Shawkat, Geena Davis, Adria Arjona, Haley Joel Osment, Liz Caribel Sierra, Levon Hawke, Trew Mullen, Saul Williams, Cris Costa, Simon Rex, and Kyle MacLachlan.

Kraven The Hunter — In Theaters August 30, 2024

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

You've never seen a super-hero flick quite like this. Consider this summer movie the origin story of the titular Kraven the Hunter, and discover why he becomes the feared figure we all know so well.

Kraven the Hunter premieres August 30, and stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott, and Russell Crowe.

Which 2024 summer movie are you looking forward to this year? I cannot wait for Inside Out 2! Follow us on Facebook for more movie news and check out this year's Most-Anticipated Fall Movies.

Lead image via Pixar/Disney

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The "It Ends With Us" Trailer Features A Fan Favorite Taylor Swift Song

Few books have made an impact on BookTok like Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us. The story follows a woman named Lily who is intrigued by a new relationship with Ryle, but an encounter with her first love Atlas — and the reminders of her past that Atlas carries — complicates everything. This movie based on a bookwill be one to remember.

We had high hopes for this summer movie, and when it was announced that Justin Baldoni would develop the film in 2019, we knew the story was in good hands. Baldoni won us over with his role as Rafael in Jane The Virgin, and his feature directorial debut Five Feet Apart made us cry our eyes out. If you're a Colleen Hoover fan, keep reading for everything you need to know about It Ends With Us. Check out the rest of this year's 2024 movies too!

Watch the It Ends With Us trailer now!

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IT ENDS WITH US - Official Trailer (HD)

The way I IMMEDIATELY slapped my hand over my mouth at the first notes of "My Tears Ricochet" from Taylor Swift's Folklore. What a song choice! This is the one trailer we have been waiting for all year, and it totally captures the emotion, heart, and drama of the book.

When is the It Ends With Us movie coming out?

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

It Ends With Us will hit theaters August 9, 2024. With so much color, plus the fact Blake Lively's Lily runs a flower shop, a summer release is perfect! Because of the writers' strike and actors' strike, production on the film paused over the summer of 2023, meaning the movie got delayed from its original February 9 (then June 21) release date.

Who plays Lily in the It Ends With Us cast?

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni (who's also directing) are set to star in the film as Lily and Ryle, respectively. On April 20, 2023, it was announced that 1923 star Brandon Sklenar would join the duo as Atlas, and on May 1, Jenny Slate joined the cast as Ryle's sister Allysa. Hasan Minhaj joined the film on May 25 as Alyssa's husband Marshall.

Baldoni also posted a TikTok confirming that after an open casting call, they've found young Lily! Thanks to IMDb and some on-set TikToks, it looks like we'll be seeing Isabela Ferrer starring as the younger version of Blake Lively's character.

Fans were initially unhappy with Blake's casting, because in the book, Lily is supposed to be in her early 20s. But author Colleen Hoover explained a bit of the intention behind the casting with the TODAY Show, explaining that the "new adult" genre at the time favored characters in their early 20s — and that the point of the book is its message, not its cast or costumes.

“As an author, we make mistakes,” she says. “There’s no 28-year-old neurosurgeons, you know? You go to school for 15 years. And so to make corrections to what I messed up in the book, we aged the characters up somewhat...I love that there’s discourse surrounding it, I do. I think that people are going to be very pleased. I’m very pleased.”

What is It Ends With Us about?

It Ends With Us follows Lily Bloom after she moves out of her small town to start a flower shop in Boston. When she meets Ryle on a rooftop and quickly falls head over heels, it seems like fate. That is, until she comes face-to-face with her first love Atlas. It's a story of strength, deep-rooted relationships, and identity that made waves on social media.

Where was It Ends With Us filmed?

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

It Ends With Us has been filming in New Jersey. The first set images from It Ends With Us are from a scene that takes place between Lily and Ryle. While Baldoni is wearing a simple black sweater, Lively is wearing two different shades of pink over a brown dress. I love the way costumes highlight all the ways characters are different, and this is the perfect example!

On January 6, 2024, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni were finally spotted in Jersey City again. While the costumes have gotten some backlash, I really love the texture and visual interest in this patchwork jacket + jeans combo! It feels creative and bright — just like Lily :).

And on April 30 we FINALLY got the first official images from the movie and everything looks incredible! The colors are just as bright and yet still have some emotional weight behind them to match the story. I'm particularly obsessed with this Blake Lively outfit — I'm a sucker for a jeans + tank + cardigan combo.

What scenes have the cast filmed?

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

On January 15, 2024, a video of Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni filming another It Ends With Us movie scene went viral on TikTok, and users are convinced they know which scene we're seeing in the video. Blake and Justin are walking around outside of a restaurant, which leads fans to believe this is Lily and Ryle's confrontation after they see Atlas in his restaurant for the first time.

Is Colleen Hoover making a movie out of It Ends With Us?

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Yes, we're getting a movie adaptation of It Ends With Us! Filming began in New Jersey the first week of May 2022 and is expected to wrap in early 2024. But after a recent leak from the movie set, one question that's top of mind is whether we're actually getting two movies. The scene, which features Blake Lively's Lily pushing a baby in a swing, doesn't take place in the original novel and fans are wondering whether the film will also use elements from It Starts With Us, the 2023 sequel Colleen Hover published.

"It Ends With Us doesn't have this scene," one TikToker wrote in the comments. "This is definitely It Starts With Us," another added. Now that there are two books, it's totally plausible that they've added elements to the end of the film that set up a sequel movie — and we are totally here for it!

Who else is working on the film?

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

According to Deadline, Lively, Baldoni, Hoover, Steve Sarowitz, and Andrew Calof are all serving as executive producers, while Alex Saks, Christy Hall, and Jamey Heath are producing. Hall is also penning the script for the film.

Follow us on TikTok and Twitter for the latest entertainment updates, and check back here for new info on It Ends With Us! Feel free to rewatch all of Blake Lively's movies too ;).

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Lead image from Savages via Universal Pictures/IMDb

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"Bridgerton" Co-Stars Nicola Coughlan And Luke Newton Are BFF Goals

Dearest gentle readers, we're less than a day away from seeing gorgeous co-stars Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton grace our screens in Bridgerton Season 3. Is it obvious we've been yearning for their onscreen chemistry? We can't help it — "Polin" simply beckons!

If you've been enjoying seeing them on the red carpet and can't believe how well they work together, there's a reason for that — an amazing friendship! As gorgeous as these two are together, Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton are pretty much besties IRL. You know we love talking about good friendships (here's looking at you Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez), so it's only right we honor two of our favorite Bridgerton co-stars.

Here's three super sweet reasons why they're friendship goals!

Three Sweet Reasons Why Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton Are Friendship Goals

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Netflix

They're dance partners.

No, this isn't a joke. Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton have been dance partners for — hold your breath — five years. Nicola first revealed this fun fact about their friendship during an interview with E! News.

As she shared why she and Luke were able to film the steamy scenes we'll be watching soon, she said, "We've actually been dance partners for five years. So we had a certain physical comfort level with each other which helps immensely."

Luke added, "You'd think filming a scene like that with someone...who has been your friend for like four years, would be a daunting experience, but actually it was a reassuring one."

Whew, I think I may need to check my temperature because those are still very hot answers 😮💨.

Image Courtesy of Netflix

Support is at the center of their friendship.

These two know that being supportive is essential for most friendships to thrive, and they're certainly fond of being there for one another. Nicola shared a cute pic of the two last year on Instagram where she'd arrived to support Luke Newton during his run in The Shape of Things in London.

She captioned their candid picture, "Smashing it up on the London stage and I’m so proud, you’re the best @lukenewtonuk."

Similarily, Luke showed his support for Nicola when he wore a shirt by the nonprofit organization Choose Love. Nicole shared the sweet pic on Instagram and wrote , "I know you’ve been waiting and the latest @chooselovemodel is here
Thank you Luke for being the best and supporting this incredible charity who are supporting refugees in great need the world over."

Image via Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

They don't mind showing friendly PDA.

Does friendly PDA exist? Sure! Think about the last time you hugged your bestie without involving any romantic feelings? The same applies to Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton. If you ask me, it seems like they're having fun during the press run for the third season of Bridgerton, but can you blame them?

Polin — the cute nickname Bridgerton fans have for Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton— are way too cute to ignore. But, any theories you may have that they're secretly dating will have to be put on hold.

As of now, People reports they'e just friends and nothing more. Nicola even told Extra how she and Luke feel about the rumors. "We think it's really sweet ... because we truly love each other."

We know this doesn't mean you'll stop dreaming about Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton being Hollywood's next 'It' couple, so we won't stop you. Just know that their friendship is equally beautiful and deserves to be respected!

What do you think about Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton's friendship? Let us know in the comments and follow us on Facebook for more Bridgerton news!

Lead image via Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

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