‘The Ritual’ Review: Exorcisms Happen, Excitement Not So Much in Drab Horror Opus With Al Pacino

The Guadalajara International Film Festival (FICG) is kicking off its 40th edition with a historic twist—Mexico’s first-ever stop-motion animated feature, I Am Frankelda, is opening the event. Running from June 6-14, the festival is also introducing a fresh genre sidebar, spotlighting five films, including Pablo Stoll’s zombie dramedy Summer Hit. It’s a big moment for Mexican cinema and a nod to the festival’s growing influence in showcasing diverse storytelling.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another film festival—it’s a celebration of Mexican creativity hitting new milestones. I Am Frankelda making history as the country’s first stop-motion feature signals a bold step for animation in Mexico, while the new genre section shows the festival’s commitment to pushing boundaries. For film buffs, it’s a chance to see emerging trends and fresh voices in Latin American cinema.

A well-known antiques expert from the TV show Bargain Hunt has been sentenced to prison for selling valuable artwork to a man suspected of funding Hezbollah, a group designated as a terrorist organization by several countries. Authorities uncovered a trail of shady financial dealings linking the Middle East to London, leading to the arrest.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a celebrity getting into trouble—it’s a stark reminder of how illegal financial networks operate, even in seemingly legitimate circles like high-end art sales. The case highlights the ongoing challenge of tracking and stopping funds that could support extremist groups, and it raises questions about due diligence in the art world. For fans of the show, it’s also a jarring twist for a familiar face.

During a meeting with Germany's chancellor in the Oval Office, former President Donald Trump doubled down on his false claim that the 2024 election was "rigged"—repeating a debunked narrative that has fueled political division. The remark, made in a high-profile diplomatic setting, suggests he’s still centering his rhetoric on election fraud despite its widespread rejection by courts and officials.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about Trump rehashing old grievances—it’s a reminder of how his election lies continue to shape political discourse, even in moments meant for diplomacy. For allies and voters alike, it raises questions about how much these claims could destabilize trust in democracy, both at home and abroad.

Hulu just snagged a wild new comedy from the twisted minds of BriTANicK (the duo behind absurdist internet humor), starring Stranger Things' Gaten Matarazzo and The Goldbergs' Sean Giambrone. The untitled project—jokingly called The Untitled BriTANicK Pizza Movie for now—follows a drug-fueled misadventure, produced by the teams behind American Vandal and stand-up comedy hub All Things Comedy. Expect chaotic, Gen-Z-friendly antics.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another streaming comedy—it’s a collision of internet-savvy creators, rising young stars, and a premise that screams "millennial/Gen-Z fever dream." If BriTANicK’s past work (like their surreal CollegeHumor sketches) is any clue, this could be a cult hit in the making. For Hulu, it’s a smart play to lure younger audiences with irreverent, niche humor. Buckle up for weirdness.

Ja Rule, the rapper behind massive hits for stars like Mariah Carey and Jennifer Lopez, just signed with powerhouse talent agency WME. He’ll now have their team handling his career across the board—music, tours, and likely more. This comes as he’s already on the road with Nelly for the "Where the Party At" tour, proving he’s still a live-draw favorite.

Editor’s Note: Ja Rule’s new deal with WME signals that he’s far from done in the game. For fans, it could mean bigger tours, fresh projects, or even a career reinvention. For the industry, it’s another reminder that legacy artists with staying power still get major love from top agencies. Not bad for a guy who’s been charting hits since the early 2000s.