HBO Max Expands In Europe And Asia & Nears 100 Markets

Fandango Sales, the global arm of an influential Italian indie film company, has snapped up international distribution rights for The Holy Boy, a highbrow horror flick from director Paolo Strippoli. The film—originally titled La valle dei sorrisi—is set to premiere at Venice Film Festival in a buzzy midnight slot, though it’s not competing for awards. Oh, and the international trailer just dropped—so expect some eerie chills soon.

Editor’s Note: Horror fans and cinephiles, take note. Venice’s midnight screenings are often where cult hits are born (The Evil Dead, anyone?), and Fandango’s backing suggests this one’s got serious potential. For indie horror, landing both a festival spotlight and a global sales deal is a big win—it could mean wider releases or even a streaming splash. Plus, "elevated horror" (think Hereditary, not Saw) keeps gaining traction, so this might be your next obsession.

The Locarno Film Festival’s think tank, StepIn, is bringing in comedian and disability advocate Maysoon Zayid to shake things up. In a talk titled "Somewhere Over the Rainbow: Making Movies that Save Lives," she’ll push the industry to take creative risks and use storytelling as a force for good. Zayid, who’s famously weathered cancellation attempts, will likely bring her signature blend of humor and hard truths to the stage.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another festival panel—it’s a call to action. Zayid’s presence signals a growing demand for bold, inclusive storytelling in entertainment. Her resilience against cancellation also highlights how marginalized voices can (and do) push back against silencing. For an industry often stuck in safe, formulaic modes, her message could be a much-needed jolt.

Bath & Body Works is rolling out a "Summerween" collection—a playful mashup of summer and Halloween vibes—with spooky-scented candles, lotions, and decor. Think pumpkin spice meets sunscreen, but with a ghostly twist.

Editor’s Note: For fans of Halloween (or just quirky limited-edition products), this is a fun way to stretch the spooky season into summer. It’s also a clever move by Bath & Body Works to capitalize on year-round demand for themed merch—because why should October have all the fun? Plus, if you’re already spotting Halloween decor in July, this might be your excuse to lean in.

The Weeknd and Shakira are set to light up the 2025 Global Citizen Festival as headliners, joined by rising stars Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Mariah the Scientist. The event, hosted by Hugh Jackman, will take over Central Park’s Great Lawn on September 27. More big names are expected to be revealed soon—so stay tuned.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another concert—it’s a powerhouse lineup for a festival that blends entertainment with activism. Global Citizen uses these events to push for social change, so the star power here helps draw attention (and hopefully action) to global issues. Plus, with a mix of legends like Shakira and fresh faces like Tyla, it’s a win for music fans of all tastes.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s relationship is playing out like one of their own catchy love songs. The pair, who’ve worked together on hits like "Wolves," seem to be harmonizing just as well offstage. Gomez’s playful Instagram post hints at a sweet, low-key romance that fans are loving.

Editor’s Note: Celebrity relationships often feel like public performances, but Gomez and Blanco’s connection—rooted in creative collaboration—feels refreshingly genuine. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that unfold naturally, even under the spotlight. Plus, fans get to enjoy the possibility of more musical magic from the duo.