Movie Review: In 'Toy Story 5,' it's (digital) apocalypse now for toys
“Toy Story 5” may fall shy of the first three and probably ranks as the fifth best of these movies. But “Toy Story” has a high bar and the quality and thoughtfulness that has long distinguished Pixar is very much present here, writes AP Film Writer Jake Coyle in his review. As the movie’s “toys vs. tech” advertising has made abundantly clear, “Toy Story 5” is predicated on an extremely relatable conflict for kids and parents, alike. In it, tablets arrive just as ominously as weapons did in “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Given just how profoundly screens have altered childhood, the paradigm-shift storyline gives “Toy Story 5” something most sequels can’t claim: a reason for being.
Sean Penn to direct Warner Bros. movie about a police officer at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot
NEW YORK (AP) — Sean Penn will direct a movie about a police officer who was at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot in 2021, Warner Bros. said Tuesday. Following his Oscar-winning performance in “One Battle After Another,” Penn will direct the as-yet-untitled film from his own script. Bradley Cooper is in talks to star, though no deal has been finalized. Penn attended the 2002 hearing of the House Select Committee investigating the attack on the Capitol. The movie’s announcement comes just days after the U.S. Justice Department said it will not challenge Paramount Skydance’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
‘Obsession’ is a sensation. Everyone, including Curry Barker, is trying to figure out what it means
NEW YORK (AP) — Over the last month, “Obsession” has sent shock waves through Hollywood. Curry Barker’s microbudget horror film has grossed $286 million worldwide, and it’s still going. In North America, it has outgrossed “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu.” It’s Focus Features’ biggest hit in its 24-year existence and ranks among the most profitable movies ever made. Coupled with the A24 hit “Backrooms,” by 20-year-old Kane Parsons, it’s been a coming-out party for YouTube as a breeding ground for the next generation of filmmakers. It’s also brought waves of Gen Z moviegoers into theaters. Summer has historically been dominated by legacy franchises, but “Obsession” may represent a sea change.
A Jenna Bush Hager imprint release is now in Oprah's book club
NEW YORK (AP) — Oprah Winfrey has selected Sophie Chen Keller's novel “Little Wonder” for her book club. The book, set in China, tells the story of a food delivery worker and her musically gifted son who gets lost in Beijing. Winfrey announced her choice on Tuesday. The novel was published by Jenna Bush Hager's Thousand Voices imprint. Hager, a “Today” show host, facilitated the call where Winfrey informed Keller of her decision. Keller expressed her excitement, calling it a dream come true. Winfrey's podcast interview with Keller is available on the Oprah YouTube Channel and other outlets.
JD Vance went on television to plug a faith memoir. 'The View' had other plans
Vice President JD Vance is promoting his new book, but that wasn’t the main focus when he went on ABC’s “The View” to plug his memoir on faith. Instead, Vance faced tough questions on Jeffrey Epstein, the economy and immigration. His appearance on the show Tuesday marked a rare foray for a Trump administration official into what they consider hostile media, with the long-running morning show generally dominated by its liberal hosts. Vance joked about the challenging environment at the start of the hour, saying, “This is a show of MAGA Republicans, right?” He defended President Donald Trump’s comments on affordability and inflation by rephrasing his remarks on them, leading Joy Behar to ask him, “Are you his interpreter, or are you his vice president?”
Recommended for you
The Grammys add 5 new categories and announce changes to best new artist
NEW YORK (AP) — The Recording Academy has announced changes for the 2026 Grammy Awards, including five new categories. These include best Asian pop music performance, best traditional pop vocal performance and best Latin song. Changes have also been made to the R&B and folk categories. The best R&B solo performance is reimagined, and a best R&B collaboration or duo/group performance is added. Folk now includes best contemporary folk album and best traditional folk album. The best new artist category has been updated, allowing artists to submit four times. These changes aim to reflect the evolving music industry.
Tom Holland appears to confirm he and Zendaya are married
NEW YORK (AP) — Tom Holland has apparently confirmed that he and Zendaya have tied the knot. This comes after months of speculation sparked by Zendaya’s stylist in March. Holland addressed the rumors during an interview with Esquire U.K. When asked about whether he had to inform his family after AI images circulated showing what appears to be his wedding, he replied, “No, because they were all there.” He also shared how Zendaya and him support each other in their acting careers. Holland and Zendaya first met while co-starring in the 2017 movie “Spider-Man: Homecoming.” Both have major films releasing this summer, including “The Odyssey” and “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.”
Christopher Jackson to reprise his Tony-nominated role as George Washington in 'Hamilton'
NEW YORK (AP) — Christopher Jackson is returning to his role as George Washington in he Broadway hit “Hamilton.” Jackson was an original cast member and earned a Tony nomination for the role. He says he wanted to reconnect with the show that transformed him as an artist. He'll perform at the Richard Rodgers Theatre from Sept. 8 to Jan. 3. His return follows Leslie Odom Jr., who reprised his role as Aaron Burr last year. Jackson left “Hamilton” in 2016 and has since worked on various projects, including TV shows and movies. He looks forward to creating new memories in his favorite theater.
From YouTube to Hollywood: Digital creators are remaking the movie business
NEW YORK (AP) — Some of the most promising young filmmakers in the movie business are arriving in Hollywood already experts at entertaining audiences and going viral. The twin sensations of “Obsession” and “Backrooms” — both by 20-something YouTubers-turned-filmmakers — has put a new spotlight on an increasingly well-trod path to the director’s chair. Hollywood executives are scouring video platforms like YouTube and TikTok to find the next Steven Spielberg. There, young aspiring filmmakers are not only working on their craft but building a relationship with audiences that can transfer to the box office.
Jelly Roll files for divorce after 10-year marriage, citing irreconcilable differences
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Country music star Jelly Roll has filed for divorce from his wife of 10 years. Court filings in Franklin, Tennessee, list irreconcilable differences as the reason. The couple married in Las Vegas in 2016 and separated on May 9. Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, won three Grammys earlier this year, including best contemporary country album for “Beautifully Broken.” Jelly Roll has often credited his wife, Alisa DeFord, also known as Bunnie Xo, for helping him turn his life around. In a memoir released in February, Xo wrote that a true connection kept the couple together through ups and downs.

(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who make comments.
Keep it clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
Don't threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Anyone violating these rules will be issued a warning. After the warning, comment privileges can be revoked.