منافسة قوية في سوق البث المباشر: نظرة على ترتيب خدمات البث في الولايات المتحدة
الأداء الحائز على الجوائز لـ Apple TV في حفل توزيع جوائز إيمي
على الرغم من أن Apple TV كان الفائز الأكبر في حفل توزيع جوائز إيمي لهذا العام، إلا أن خدمتها للبث المباشر التي أطلقت في عام 2019 لا تزال متأخرة عن رواد السوق مثل Netflix و Amazon Prime Video من حيث الانتشار والقاعدة الجماهيرية.
نسبة استخدام Apple TV مقارنة بخدمات البث الأخرى
حسب بيانات شركة Statista Consumer Insights، فإن 21٪ من المستطلعين في الولايات المتحدة قالوا إنهم استخدموا Apple TV خلال الاثني عشر شهراً الماضية قبل إجراء الدراسة. هذه النسبة تظهر أن الخدمة لا تزال تحتاك إلى جذب عدد أكبر من المستخدمين لمنافسة كبار اللاعبين في المجال. بالمقابل، فإن 59٪ من المستجيبين أشاروا إلى أنهم استخدموا خدمة Netflix، وأن 49٪ استخدموا Amazon Prime Video، ما يعكس تفوق هذين العملاقين في السوق الأمريكية.
ترتيب خدمات البث المباشر في الولايات المتحدة
إلى جانب Netflix و Prime Video، تتقدم خدمات أخرى على Apple TV وتحتل مراكز ضمن قائمة العشرة الأوائل من حيث الشعبية والانتشار. هذا يعبر عن مدى التنافسية الشديدة التي يشهدها سوق البث في الولايات المتحدة، والذي أصبح أكثر تجمعاً وتشتتاً في السنوات الأخيرة، مما يزيد من تحديات الشركات في جذب وإبقاء المشتركين.
تأثير المنافسة على جودة وأسعار الخدمة
تساهم المنافسة المستمرة بين خدمات البث برفعة جودة المحتوى وتحسين تجربة المستخدم، حيث تعمل الشركات على تقديم محتوى فريد وحصري لجذب المشتركين. ومع ذلك، يمكن أن يتحول الأمر إلى مشكلة عندما تتحول ميزة الحصرية إلى عبء على المستهلكين، خاصة مع ارتفاع التكاليف عند الاشتراك في عدة خدمات للبث للاطلاع على المحتوى الحصري.
تاريخ التنافس في سوق البث
في الأيام الأولى لظهور خدمات البث، كانت Netflix بمثابة حوض مفتوح للمحتوى غير المحدود، حيث كانت توفر تشكيلة واسعة من المحتوى المرخص والأصلي مقابل رسوم ثابتة لم تكن مكلفة. ولكن مع دخول العديد من الشركات الكبرى الإعلامية إلى السوق، بدأت تظهر خدمات بث حصرية تقتصر على محتوى معين، مما جعل الاختيارات أكثر تعقيداً للمستهلكين.
تحديات وقيود الاختيارات المتعددة
الاشتراك في أكثر من خدمة بث واحد قد يُؤدي إلى زيادة التكاليف بشكل كبير، مما يضع المستخدمين أمام خيار التوازن بين تنويع المحتوى وتغطية الميزانية. تعتبر هذه الحالة من أبرز التحديات التي تواجهها الأسواق الحديثة، حيث يتعين على المستهلكين أن يوازنوا بين الرغبة في الوصول إلى أكبر قدر من المحتوى وتكاليف الاشتراك المتزايدة.
In response to the ongoing catastrophic wildfires in the Los Angeles area, many prominent musicians have united for FireAid, which features two substantial benefit performances on Thursday, January 30th at separate Los Angeles locations. If attending in person isn’t an option, the concerts will be streamed on multiple platforms, and you can find all the information you need below.
What is FireAid?
FireAid aims to assist in the recovery of communities impacted by the wildfires that have affected 45 square miles of densely populated areas in LA County, resulting in 28 confirmed fatalities. Proceeds from the event will be allocated towards “immediate relief efforts and long-term strategies to mitigate future wildfire disasters,” according to a press release.
Featured Clips
The dual concerts will take place at two Inglewood venues that have not been affected by the fires: the Intuit Dome, beginning at 6:00 PM PST, and the Kia Forum, which will kick off at 7:30 PM PST. Attendees will need to choose the performance they wish to attend.
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Tickets went on sale today at 12:00 PM PST through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at $99. All ticket sales will directly support relief efforts, and any additional venue and service fees will not be applied.
FireAid
Who’s Performing at FireAid?
Both FireAid concerts feature a lineup bursting with talent, showcasing a total of 28 artists, including local favorites like Billie Eilish, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and the reformed lineup of No Doubt. Here’s the full roster for each venue:
Intuit Dome
Billie Eilish, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gracie Abrams, Jelly Roll, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Lil Baby, Olivia Rodrigo, Peso Pluma, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Sting, and Tate McRae.
Kia Forum
Alanis Morissette, Anderson .Paak, Dawes, Graham Nash, Green Day, John Fogerty, Joni Mitchell, No Doubt, Pink, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stephen Stills, Stevie Nicks, the Black Crowes, and Dave Matthews, who will perform alongside John Mayer for the first time.
How Can I Stream the FireAid Concerts?
While details about specific streaming platforms for the FireAid event have yet to be fully revealed, viewers can expect to access the benefit concerts on a variety of popular services, including:
Amazon Music and Amazon Prime Video, Apple Music and the Apple TV app, Disney+, Hulu, Facebook, Instagram, iHeartRadio, KTLA+, Max, Netflix/Tudum, Paramount+, Peacock/NBC News Now, SiriusXM’s exclusive “LIFE with John Mayer” channel, SoundCloud, Veeps, and YouTube. Additionally, select AMC Theatre locations will host screenings of the event.
How Can I Help?
If you're interested in contributing to the relief efforts for those impacted by the LA wildfires, donations can be made through the FireAid website.
With countless films available for streaming, it can be tough to choose what to watch when you’re settling in for a cozy night at home. Netflix’s Top 10 rankings provide a helpful guide by showcasing the platform’s most popular movies and shows, but you still have some tough choices ahead of you.
If you’re feeling specific about what you want to watch, you might want to check out our curated lists of the best Netflix thrillers or comedies. But maybe you only have time for one or two films? Luckily, this week’s Top 10 is quite similar to last week’s, allowing us to focus on a brand-new entry and an outstanding animated film that just missed our earlier recommendations.
So, let’s not waste any more time and jump into what you must watch from Netflix’s Top 10 movies this week. And if our suggestions don’t quite fit your taste, we’ve included the complete list for you to explore.
This list is accurate as of November 21, 2024.
Sing
Sing combines three things that audiences love: singing competitions, animated animals, and a classic underdog tale. This vibrant jukebox musical has a youthful charm and is sure to brighten your spirits on a chilly, pre-holiday evening.
Featuring the voices of Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton, Matthew McConaughey, and others, the story follows Buster, a stylish koala who dreams of hosting the world’s greatest singing contest to save his cherished theater from closing.
While it may not be as distinctive as LAIKA’s films like Coraline or as profound as Pixar offerings like Inside Out 2, this Illumination film brims with energy, humor, and catchy tunes, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for feel-good entertainment.
The Fast and the Furious
(Image credit: Universal)
Before Dominic Toretto and his crew took on death-defying stunts regularly, the Fast and Furious franchise kicked off as a fairly traditional action film. Released in 2001, it tells the story of Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker), an undercover cop trying to infiltrate a street racing gang in Los Angeles. Things get complicated when he forms a close bond with the group’s charismatic leader, Dom (Vin Diesel).
Looking back, it’s even more entertaining, knowing the wild direction the series has taken. Plus, seeing everyone dressed in early 2000s fashion is a nostalgic bonus. The plot isn’t the strongest, but that’s never been the main focus of Fast & Furious; the thrilling action scenes and solid performances by the cast make this film a great choice to keep you alert in front of the TV.
Current Top 10 Movies on Netflix
1. The Merry Gentlemen 2. Hot Frosty 3. Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy 4. Rob Peace 5. The Lost Children 6. Focus 7. The Secret Life of Pets 8. Father Figures 9. The Fast and the Furious 10. Sing
Still searching for something to watch? Check out all the movies and shows that are new to Netflix in November 2024.
Subtitles provide a straightforward solution for understanding the dialogue in films and shows, especially in different languages or when the sound is too low to catch the subtleties of the conversations. However, after finishing a viewing, you might find yourself searching for the options to disable subtitles on Netflix. The steps can vary based on the device you’re using, but Netflix makes it relatively straightforward. Below is a guide on how to turn off subtitles across some of the more popular devices.
Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Time
5 minutes
Requirements
Netflix account
Internet access
Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on Android
Step 1: While watching your content, tap the screen.
Step 2: Tap the Dialogue icon that appears in the bottom right, labeled Audio & Subtitles.
Step 3: Choose the off option under Subtitles.
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on iPhone and iPad
Step 1: Tap on your screen while the movie or show is playing.
Step 2: Select the Dialogue icon in the bottom right, which shows Audio & Subtitles.
Step 3: Choose the Off option under Subtitles.
Step 4: Tap the X icon to continue watching.
Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on Chromecast and Google TV
These steps apply to both older Chromecast models and newer Google TV devices.
Step 1: Tap the screen while your content is playing, or press the down button on your Google TV remote.
Step 2: Once the Dialogue icon shows up, click on it. For Google TV, select Audio & Subtitles.
Step 3: Select the Off option under Subtitles.
Step 4: Hit OK or the X icon to resume playback.
Derek Malcolm / Digital Trends
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on Roku
Step 1: After selecting your content, click on Audio & Subtitles on the description page.
Step 2: Choose the Off setting for subtitles.
Step 3: Press the back button to exit the description page.
Step 4: Click Play to start your show or film.
Derek Malcolm / Digital Trends
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on Apple TV
Step 1: Swipe down on your remote while the content is playing. (For Apple TV models 2 and 3, hold down the Center button.)
Step 2: Choose the Off option under Subtitles when your audio and subtitle options appear.
Jen Karner / Digital Trends
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on Mac or PC
Step 1: Launch Netflix and select the content you want to watch.
Step 2: As the movie or show plays, move your mouse to reveal the options.
Step 3: Click on the Dialogue icon that appears in the bottom right corner.
Step 4: Opt for the Off option under Subtitles from the options that come up.
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on a Blu-ray Player
Due to the vast variety of Blu-ray players available, the following steps may not work on every model.
Step 1: While a video plays, press the Down button on your remote.
Step 2: Highlight the Dialogue icon and select it.
Step 3: Various audio and subtitle options will appear. Under Subtitles, select the Off option.
How to Disable Netflix Subtitles on Most Consoles
These steps should work across most gaming consoles. If subtitles continue to display after this, you might need to adjust the accessibility settings for closed captioning directly on your console.
Step 1: Bring up the in-player menu during playback.
Step 2: Navigate to the Dialogue menu.
Step 3: Toggle the Subtitles option off, which might be nested under an Audio and Subtitles submenu.
If you’re looking to turn off subtitles on other streaming platforms, check out our guides for Disney+ and Max for more assistance.
Fans of HBO’s House of the Dragon have faced a rough few months. The finale of the show’s second season received a significant amount of criticism, with many viewers expressing disappointment over its lack of a satisfying conclusion and its apparent focus on teasing future plotlines. To add to this frustration, shortly after the finale aired, George R.R. Martin, the author behind Game of Thrones, openly criticized some creative choices made during the season.
This past weekend brought another disappointing update for dedicated fans of the series. During a panel at New York Comic-Con, cast members Tom Glynn-Carney and Matt Smith shared that they are currently in the dark about the status of House of the Dragon season three. When inquired about whether they had seen or read any scripts for the upcoming season, Glynn-Carney stated, “Not a jot, not a letter.” He humorously added, “The longer they take, the longer we don’t have to read anything for a while.”
Smith echoed this sentiment, admitting, “I’ve not heard hide nor hair.” However, Fabien Frankel, who also stars in House of the Dragon, offered a cryptic reply when asked if he had any updates. “I’ve heard some things that I couldn’t possibly share here,” he teased.
Ollie Upton / HBO
Despite being officially renewed for a third season back in June, just ahead of the second season’s premiere, there remains confusion about the show’s future. Co-creator Ryan Condal previously confirmed that the plan includes a total of four seasons for House of the Dragon. Additionally, in August, he indicated that filming for season three could begin in “earlyish 2025,” and that scripts were in the writing process. Given this, it’s surprising that two major cast members have not yet been briefed on what to expect for the upcoming season.
In a now-deleted blog post, Martin had hinted at spoilery details regarding season three that he feared the series might mishandle. His comments may have led Condal and the writing team to rethink their narrative strategies. Alternatively, it could also be that the writing process is taking longer than anticipated, or the writers have chosen to keep the cast out of the loop for now.
Whatever the reason, it’s clear this isn’t the news that House of the Dragon fans were hoping for.
Seasons one and two of House of the Dragon are currently available for streaming on Max.
Among the various video game adaptations currently being developed in Hollywood, Amazon’s God of War series stands out as particularly promising. The original games, especially the 2018 and 2022 installments, possess a cinematic flair that may lend itself well to both film and television adaptations. However, despite the enthusiasm surrounding the project, progress on the adaptation has been sluggish since its initial announcement two years ago.
Recently, the project encountered a significant setback. According to Deadline, showrunner Rafe Judkins and executive producers Hawk Ostby and Mark Fergus have departed the project. This news comes after they had already completed several scripts for the first season and amid a shared interest from Sony Pictures TV and Amazon MGM Studios to venture into a new creative direction.
Despite this change, Yumi Yang and Cory Barlog from Santa Monica Studio, which developed God of War, remain involved as executive producers, along with Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, Yumi Land, and Roy Lee. It has been reported that Amazon and Sony intend to bring in a completely new writing team for the series, effectively starting from scratch.
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Amazon has experience with high-profile video game adaptations; earlier this year, it launched the much-anticipated live-action Fallout series, which quickly became one of the year’s biggest television hits. Rafe Judkins also has a history with Amazon, serving as the showrunner for The Wheel of Time, which debuted on Prime Video in 2021.
It has been confirmed that the God of War series will explore the Norse Era of the franchise. If Sony and Amazon plan to stick with this narrative direction, the series will follow the character Kratos years after he left his violent past as the Greek God of War. The 2018 game specifically depicts Kratos on a profound journey with his son, Atreus, to carry out his late wife’s final wish by spreading her ashes atop a mountain in the Norse realm of Midgard. Throughout their quest, Kratos and Atreus face numerous challenges, battling Norse gods, monsters, and various mythological beings.
At this point, the reasons behind the decision to replace Judkins, Ostby, and Fergus remain unclear. However, given the recent success of Fallout and the overall popularity of the God of War franchise, it makes sense for the studios to take their time and ensure the new adaptation meets expectations, even if it results in a prolonged development timeline.
Hulu stands out as one of the premier streaming services available today, accessible on a vast array of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, gaming consoles, and various streaming devices. Its extensive collection of films and television series, featuring acclaimed originals like The Handmaid’s Tale and Only Murders in the Building, provides entertainment for all tastes. However, even a leading streaming service like Hulu can encounter issues from time to time.
Users may experience performance setbacks that hinder their viewing pleasure. These might include troublesome audio interruptions, such as moments when sound drops out or becomes garbled, in addition to frustrating delays and buffering that can interrupt your show. The notorious “spinning wheel of death” may even appear while the app struggles to keep up.
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
5 minutes
Requirements
Hulu account
Reliable internet connection
Fortunately, many of these issues can be easily fixed with a few straightforward solutions. By restarting your device, verifying your internet connection, or clearing the app’s cache, you can usually resume streaming your favorite content without delay.
Keep Your App Updated
First and foremost, ensure that you have the most recent version of the Hulu app installed on your streaming devices, whether you’re using a standard Hulu package or one of its live TV options.
While updating may not resolve every technical glitch you encounter, developers typically release updates that address new features, optimization, and security enhancements. Upgrading to the latest version could potentially fix existing Hulu issues.
Down Detector
Check for Service Outages
It’s not uncommon for the Hulu service to experience outages, impacting some users or the entire platform. Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, confirm whether the issue lies with Hulu’s servers. A useful website for checking service status is DownDetector.com.
This site provides a live outage map and displays user reports. Additionally, searching for #huludown or #hulu on X (formerly Twitter) may help you quickly identify any widespread problems.
Hulu
Simple Solutions for Hulu Issues
If you’ve established that the issue isn’t related to Hulu’s service, several home remedies may help. Try these steps to troubleshoot, and if one doesn’t work, move down the list until you find a solution.
Step 1: Close the Hulu app completely on your device and then open it again.
Step 2: Restart your device.
Step 3: Reset your router. If you’re unsure how, follow our straightforward guide to resetting a router.
Step 4: Make sure you have the latest version of the Hulu app by checking your device’s app store for any available updates.
Step 5: Delete and reinstall the Hulu app.
Step 6: Remove your device or console from your Hulu account and then re-add it.
Step 7: If you’re using a VPN, ensure it’s turned off for U.S. customers.
Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends
A Deeper Troubleshooting Method
If Hulu still isn’t functional, your internet speed may be insufficient for streaming. Perform a speed test to check if your connection is fast enough for Hulu’s requirements. According to Hulu’s guidelines, you should aim for a minimum of 3.0 Mbps for regular viewing, 8.0 Mbps for live streams, and 16 Mbps for 4K content. If you need assistance checking your speed, Hulu provides a guide on conducting speed tests on various devices, including computers, smart TVs, mobile devices, and game consoles.
Other devices connected to your Wi-Fi could be slowing down your connection, which could affect your Hulu experience. If you’re relying on Wi-Fi, consider connecting your device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable, or enhance your network with a Wi-Fi extender to minimize dead zones.
If issues persist, you might want to look up the specific Hulu error code you’re encountering or visit the Hulu Community for insights and solutions from other users facing similar challenges.
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
Dealing with Audio Issues
When enjoying Hulu content, you might run into audio problems, ranging from complete silence to distorted sounds or out-of-sync dialogue. Here are a few strategies to address these audio glitches.
Step 1: Pause your current film or show and try watching a different title. Sometimes switching content can help reset the Hulu app. Alternatively, you may fully exit the app and relaunch it.
Step 2: Verify the audio settings on your TV or streaming device. Much of Hulu’s content is only available in stereo sound. If your equipment is trying to output surround sound, it may cause odd audio issues.
Adjust your device’s settings to PCM, stereo, or another non-surround option to see if that resolves the sound problem.
Step 3: The way you connect your streaming device to your TV via HDMI can also affect audio performance. HDMI ARC inputs can sometimes complicate audio delivery, leading to sync issues.
If your streaming device has a separate audio output (like a digital optical or similar), consider using one HDMI cable for video and a separate audio cable for sound to simplify the connection.
Also, ensure that your HDMI cables are connected appropriately, as some may have directional arrows indicating input and output. Having them reversed could lead to audio problems.
Closed Captioning Problems
Hulu offers closed captioning for the majority of its titles, but this feature can also run into issues.
Step 1: If captions are unresponsive, remember that not all titles on Hulu support this feature. If you discover a title lacking captions, you can submit a request to Hulu at DS.hulucaptionsfeedback@disney.com.
Step 2: If your captions are displayed in the incorrect language, check the settings on your TV or streaming device to ensure you’ve selected the right language.
If settings are correct, try closing and reopening the Hulu app, enabling captions once again. Often, this simple reset can resolve captioning issues.
The debut season of Netflix’s Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft has just launched, but Hayley Atwell, who plays the lead role, is already contemplating her future as the legendary character. This is hardly surprising, given the enduring appeal of Lara Croft and the intriguing twists introduced at the end of the first season. The finale serves up a new conspiracy that Atwell’s Lara is poised to unravel in potential future installments.
Atwell has expressed her enthusiasm for continuing to portray the beloved Tomb Raider. In a recent conversation with GamesRadar+, she shared, “Being part of [Lara Croft] in any capacity would be an absolute dream for me, and I recognize the responsibility that comes with it given her popularity and significance.”
Reflecting on her experience, Atwell shared that she had “an absolute blast” working on the first season of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft. She conveyed her gratitude for collaborating with director Meredith Layne and showrunner Tasha Huo, saying, “I’ve loved every moment of working with them.” The actress further reaffirmed her willingness to reprise her role as Lara, whether in a new season of the show or through another project. “I would be truly honored to continue exploring this character or to have Lara in my life in any different capacity,” she affirmed.
Netflix
The future of The Legend of Lara Croft is currently uncertain. While Netflix has not officially confirmed a second season, reports from The Hollywood Reporter indicated in 2023 that the initial pickup may include an order for two seasons. This suggests that a follow-up season could already be in the works, but fans are left waiting for an official announcement from Netflix to clarify the show’s trajectory.
In addition to the animated series, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the creator of Fleabag, is reportedly developing a Tomb Raider television show in partnership with Amazon. Atwell could find herself in the running for a part in that series as well. Not only does she physically embody the character of Lara Croft, but her voice work suggests she can effectively channel the character’s spirit. Fans of both Marvel and Mission: Impossible know that Atwell is more than capable of delivering the high-octane action that a Tomb Raider series would demand.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether Atwell will have the chance to continue her journey as The Legend of Lara Croft. One thing is clear, however: she has already built a strong connection with the iconic heroine.
Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 1 is now available for streaming on Netflix.
In the inaugural teaser for A Thousand Blows, Sugar Goodson, portrayed by Stephen Graham, asserts, “No one gets to take from me and live. No one.” This intense crime drama is the latest creation from Steven Knight, known for his work on Peaky Blinders. Similar to his acclaimed series, A Thousand Blows promises to deeply examine England’s past while immersing audiences in a gripping criminal underbelly rife with tension, treachery, and brutality.
Set in the East End of London during the 1880s and inspired by various true stories, the narrative centers on two Jamaican friends, Hezekiah (Malachi Kirby) and Alec (Francis Lovehall), who desperately navigate the perilous world of East London’s crime scene. Their journey leads them to cross paths with Mary Carr (Erin Doherty), a formidable leader of an all-female gang, and they soon find themselves in conflict with Sugar Goodson, whose ruthless nature is matched only by his talent as an underground boxer.
Alongside Graham, Kirby, Lovehall, and Doherty, the ensemble cast features Ziggy Heath, Jason Tobin, James Nelson-Joyce, Tom Davis, and Ella Lily Hyland. The series debuted at this year’s London Film Festival, showcasing its first two episodes to eager fans. The teaser trailer is available for viewing below.
A Thousand Blows | Teaser Trailer | Hulu
Steven Knight is currently one of Hollywood’s most prolific writers and directors. His lineup for 2024 includes noteworthy projects such as the FX espionage thriller The Veil, featuring Elisabeth Moss, and Maria, a new film starring Angelina Jolie and directed by Pablo Larraín. However, 2025 looks exceptionally promising, with A Thousand Blows set to premiere and Netflix releasing Knight’s long-anticipated film, The Immortal Man. This project, which began filming in late September, reintroduces Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders. Other cast members include Graham, Rebecca Ferguson, Barry Keoghan, and Tim Roth, with Knight behind the screenplay.
The anticipation for The Immortal Man is palpable, and A Thousand Blows is poised to become another hit for Knight. If the teaser is any indication, viewers can expect a captivating experience akin to Peaky Blinders, making it one of the most highly awaited TV releases of the coming year.
A Thousand Blows is slated to debut on Hulu in 2025.
Disney+ offers an impressive array of beloved classics and the latest films and series among streaming platforms. But what do you do when you’ve finished the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, revisited distant galaxies, watched every Pixar movie, finished all 34 seasons of The Simpsons, and explored all that Disney+ provides? Perhaps you’re ready to take a break or simply want to cut back on expenses.
If you’re considering deleting your Disney+ account, the procedure is quite simple. What will differ for each user is the method by which they created their Disney+ account.
We’ve prepared this guide to help you through the cancellation of your Disney+ subscription and your overall Disney account. Here’s how to do it.
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
10 minutes
What You Need
A Disney+ account
A home computer (for browser cancellation)
A smartphone or tablet (for cancellation through iOS or Android)
Derek Malcolm / Digital Trends
How to Cancel Your Disney+ Subscription on a Computer
Follow these steps if you registered through a PC rather than a mobile device.
Step 1: Log into your Disney+ account on the Disney+ website.
Step 2: Click or hover on the Profile icon in the upper-right corner.
Step 3: From the dropdown, select Account.
Step 4: Under the Subscription section, click on the subscription you wish to cancel.
Step 5: Click the Cancel Subscription link.
Step 6: Provide a reason for your cancellation and then select Continue to finalize the process.
Follow these steps if you registered through the Disney+ app for Apple devices.
Step 1: Open the Settings app and tap your Name/Apple ID.
Step 2: Tap Subscriptions.
Step 3: Choose Disney+, then select Cancel Subscription.
After Cancelling Disney+
You will still have access to Disney+ until the end of your current billing cycle.
If you’re looking for a refund, keep in mind that Disney+ does not provide refunds for partially used billing periods, but you will not incur any cancellation fees.
Even after cancellation, your Disney account (created during your Disney+ signup and used across all Disney platforms) remains active. This account will continue to receive promotional emails unless you opt-out. To delete your Disney account completely:
Step 2: Sign in using the link under Manage your registration account.
Step 3: Here, you can adjust notification preferences, such as email frequencies, or completely remove your Disney account.
Be aware that deleting your Disney account won’t automatically cancel your Disney+ subscription; it will prevent you from accessing Disney+. Therefore, ensure you terminate your Disney+ subscription prior to deleting your Disney account. If you skip this, you may have to contact Disney customer service for support.
Now, you might want to explore what Netflix currently has to offer.
Excitement was palpable for Salem’s Lot as it made its long-anticipated debut on streaming services in early October. Directed by Gary Dauberman, this adaptation of Stephen King’s cherished 1975 novel finished filming in the summer of 2022 but was left in limbo by Warner Bros. Pictures for an extended period. Stephen King reignited interest in the film when he shared his thoughts about it on social media back in February, expressing confusion about its delays. Following that, WB revealed that Salem’s Lot would be available exclusively on Max.
King’s endorsement contributed to positive buzz, yet the film faced a lukewarm reception when it premiered on October 3, drawing mixed critiques. Many reviewers pointed to a hurried rendition of King’s classic vampire narrative and highlighted the film’s failure to develop its characters fully. This led to speculation regarding potential interference from studio executives leading to significant cuts in the final version.
It’s uncertain whether these speculations hold water. However, in a conversation with Den of Geek, Dauberman revealed that his original cut clocked in at around three hours—substantially longer than the 113-minute version that audiences eventually saw. “My initial cut was about three hours,” he shared. “A significant amount was omitted. My first script draft was over 180 pages.”
Max
Dauberman elaborated on some specific scenes that were cut from his original version during his interview with Den of Geek, highlighting one involving Ben Mears (played in the film by Lewis Pullman). In a memorable moment from the book, Ben encounters a ghost in the iconic Marsten House. “In the novel, Ben breaks into the Marsten House and sees the ghost of Hubert Marsten,” Dauberman recounted. “I filmed that scene, and it was meant to open the movie, but I felt it could confuse viewers… That was the hardest cut for me because I really love that sequence.”
The existence of a longer and potentially richer version of Salem’s Lot makes it all the more disheartening for fans of the original material to watch the trimmed version that was ultimately released. Nevertheless, Dauberman seems to have accepted the necessity of these cuts, at least for now, in order to share Salem’s Lot with the audience.
Currently, Salem’s Lot is streaming exclusively on Max.
Despite shedding light on numerous mysteries, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power season 2 leaves fans grappling with one significant question: the identity of the enigmatic antagonist currently referred to as the Dark Wizard (portrayed by Ciarán Hinds). Although his appearance and connection to Sauron (played by Charlie Vickers) have led many to speculate that he could be Saruman—an iconic character originally brought to life by the late Christopher Lee in Peter Jackson’s films—the showrunners seem to disagree.
In a post-season finale discussion with Vanity Fair, creators Patrick McKay and J.D. Payne dismissed the notion of Saruman being the Dark Wizard. “Considering the established history of Middle-earth, it’s extremely unlikely that this character could be Saruman,” McKay stated, while Payne concurred with, “If not outright impossible.”
“The Dark Wizard plays a crucial role in the happenings of Middle-earth and in the evolution of our wizard character, who is beginning to discover his true potential,” McKay elaborated. “The Dark Wizard’s destiny remains uncertain, and we haven’t revealed his name yet, but it would be nearly unfathomable for him to be Saruman.”
Ben Rothstein / Prime Video
According to the original works of J.R.R. Tolkien, Saruman doesn’t arrive in Middle-earth as a wizard until the Third Age—long after the timeline of The Rings of Power. The same goes for Gandalf, who, as revealed at the end of the season, is actually The Stranger (played by Daniel Weyman). While fans speculated that the series might alter Saruman’s backstory by linking him to Hinds’ Dark Wizard, the creators’ statements indicate this isn’t the direction they’re pursuing.
This is likely a comforting revelation for devoted Tolkien enthusiasts. It wouldn’t logically fit for Gandalf to trust Saruman at the start of the War of the Ring if Saruman had previously shown a tendency toward darkness. Likewise, transforming Saruman into the Dark Wizard would diminish the emotional intensity of his betrayal of Gandalf depicted in The Fellowship of the Ring.
Currently, fans are left wondering who the Dark Wizard truly is within The Rings of Power. Several canonical figures remain as possibilities, such as the mysterious Blue Wizards, whom Tolkien touched upon sporadically throughout his life. For now, viewers can take solace in the fact that the Dark Wizard is likely not Saruman.
Seasons 1 and 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power are available for streaming on Prime Video.
Exciting news for Apple TV users: the fourth-generation Tablo is now compatible! This is a game changer, allowing you to enjoy watching free over-the-air (OTA) broadcast channels on one of the best streaming devices available today.
The arrival of this compatibility has been highly anticipated. The fourth-generation Tablo has been on the market for nearly a year and has already provided a seamless experience on other leading platforms such as Roku and Amazon Fire TV. Simply connect an antenna to the Tablo, open the app, and watch or record free broadcast channels across multiple devices. Depending on whether you opt for the two- or four-channel version, you can use it on up to four devices simultaneously. Additionally, you can access several free ad-supported channels, making it nearly impossible to escape the FAST channel phenomenon in 2024.
Tablo has long been one of the top choices for streaming OTA channels over a home network. It has also stood out for its ease of use when it comes to recording those channels. The latest model, which launched in fall 2023, enhances the user experience in almost every aspect. As discussed in our comprehensive Tablo review, the hardware has been upgraded significantly, and the on-screen guide is among the best. You can even extend the internal storage capacity by connecting an external hard drive. Best of all, there are no hidden subscription fees. Tablo has clearly outperformed alternatives like HDHomeRun, which struggles with user experience and diminishing support over the years.
What was previously missing from the mix was support for Apple TV. That has now changed. For use with the Apple TV, you’ll need to have the fourth-generation Tablo as well as the appropriate app available on the Apple TV App Store—just be sure to download the dark blue version that works with this latest model.
One notable feature still absent is support for ATSC 3.0, or NextGen TV, which offers benefits like higher resolution and bidirectional data transfer. The adoption of this standard has been slow, largely due to patent issues and a lack of urgency from Tablo to enter this complicated arena.
In any case, this development is fantastic news for Apple TV owners who are looking for a way to access local channels without cost.
Netflix has identified a potential Oscar contender. On Monday, the streaming giant unveiled the official trailer for Emilia Pérez, a French crime musical that it aims to promote during award season.
In this bold film directed by Jacques Audiard, Karla Sofía Gascón portrays Emilia, a leader of a Mexican cartel. She recruits lawyer Rita (Zoe Saldaña) to help her stage her own death and undergo gender reassignment surgery. By executing this intricate plan, Emilia aspires to “finally live authentically as her true self,” according to Netflix.
Alongside Gascón and Saldaña, Emilia Pérez features performances from Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, Mark Ivanir, and Édgar Ramírez, who plays Gustavo Brun.
This film, written and directed by Audiard—renowned for works like A Prophet, Rust and Bone, Dheepan, and The Sisters Brothers—is adapted from a chapter in the 2018 novel Écoute by Boris Razon. Initially conceived as an opera libretto, the screenplay evolved into this feature film.
Emilia Pérez | Official Trailer | Netflix
Emilia Pérez premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it competed for the prestigious Palme d’Or. The Spanish-language musical earned three accolades: Jury Prize, Soundtrack Award, and Best Actress, which was shared by Gascón, Saldaña, Gomez, and Paz. Following its debut at Cannes, Netflix secured the film’s rights for distribution in North America and the U.K.
Netflix has high hopes for Emilia Pérez during the upcoming awards season, especially for the 2025 Oscars. France has submitted the film for Best International Feature Film, and Netflix is also aiming for nominations in several major categories, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Gascón, as well as Best Supporting Actress for Saldaña, Gomez, and Paz. Should Gascón receive a nomination, she could become the first openly trans actress to achieve this milestone.
Emilia Pérez is set to hit select theaters in the U.S. and Canada on November 1 and will be available for streaming on Netflix starting November 13.
The penultimate episode of season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power centers on a fierce confrontation between Adar (played by Sam Hazeldine) and Elrond (Robert Aramayo), with their Elves and Orcs preparing for a showdown outside the majestic Eregion kingdom. This epic clash, known in legend as the Siege of Eregion, significantly dominates the episode, earning its place as one of the most visually stunning battle sequences ever portrayed on television.
Despite occurring predominantly at night, viewers can clearly grasp the action unfolding during this climactic moment. This clarity is a remarkable achievement by director Charlotte Brändström and cinematographer Alex Disenhof, who admitted to Collider that he had reservations about how visible the battle would be. “As a cinematographer, one of the more daunting phrases to read is, ‘A moonlit night,’” he confessed.
Television audiences know the frustration all too well of struggling to decipher the chaos in a grand fantasy battle. For instance, the much-discussed episode The Long Night from season 8 of Game of Thrones faced backlash in 2019 for relying on dim lighting, making it challenging for viewers to follow the action.
Ross Ferguson / Prime Video
To avoid repeating the missteps seen in The Long Night, Disenhof leveraged a distinct feature of the siege: the massive fireballs that Adar and his Orc troops hurl at Eregion. “We let that be our guide,” he revealed. “Utilizing both real fire and artificial flames illuminated with lights allowed us to control the overall ambiance of the scene.”
By capitalizing on the fiery chaos created by catapults and explosions, Disenhof ensured every detail—including actors’ performances—was brought to life. “There was a moment when I wanted to see Elrond’s face, so I asked, ‘Hey, Special Effects Team, can you position a fire six feet away from him? Or as close as safety permits?’” he recalled. “That kept the shot dynamic.”
The end product is a battle sequence that feels tailored to meet the viewers’ expectations and experiences. If only Game of Thrones had utilized its dragonfire a bit more strategically.
The finale of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power season 2 premieres on Prime Video on Thursday, October 3.
Note: This article includes significant spoilers for The Last of Us season 2.
Prepare for an even grander and darker experience in The Last of Us season 2. This might not surprise anyone familiar with the 2020 release of The Last of Us Part II, a game that left players reeling with its shocking twists and brutal storytelling. Based on the recently unveiled trailer, it seems that the second season will adhere closely to the grim storyline established by its predecessor.
The trailer is packed with familiar images and scenes for those who played Part II, while also introducing new figures, such as Jesse (Young Mazino), Dina (Isabela Merced), Isaac (Jeffrey Wright), and perhaps the most significant addition—Abby (Kaitlyn Dever). An observant fan pointed out a subtle callback to The Last of Us Part II within the teaser.
This particular reference is auditory rather than visual: a piercing sound that cuts through the somber atmosphere of the trailer’s melancholic Pearl Jam song. This very tone similarly accompanies the most harrowing moment in The Last of Us Part II, during the intense scene where Abby forcibly takes Joel’s life with a devastating blow from a golf club. That sound crescendos, drowning out the surrounding turmoil—except for Ellie’s heartbreaking cries.
Fans of The Last of Us have been engaged in discussions for years about how the HBO adaptation would navigate the complex and grim narrative of its second game. Central to these discussions is the inevitable question of Joel’s demise. How early will it happen in the upcoming season? Will the story unfold in a linear fashion, or will it flit back and forth in time, similar to The Last of Us Part II? Unfortunately, neither the Easter egg nor the trailer has provided clarity on these points.
However, the presence of such a distinct sound makes it clear—if the trailer’s many recognizable scenes from Part II didn’t already—that viewers should brace themselves for the same gut-wrenching emotional experience that characterized the video game when the series returns. Notably, the sound is introduced during what appears to be the fateful first encounter between Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, and Abby, intensifying the sense of foreboding and intent behind its use.
The Last of Us season 2 is scheduled to debut on HBO sometime in 2025.
A battle of statements has erupted between the Menendez brothers and the actors from Ryan Murphy’s latest Netflix series, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.
This past weekend, Erik Menendez took to his wife Tammi Menendez’s X (formerly Twitter) account to express his discontent with the series.
“I believed we had moved beyond the lies and damaging character portrayals of Lyle, which have turned him into a caricature based on horrific and blatant falsehoods in this show. I can only conclude these were presented deliberately,” he stated. “It pains me to say that I believe Ryan Murphy cannot be this unaware and inaccurate regarding the truth of our lives, implying there is ill intent behind these portrayals.”
In response to Erik Menendez’s criticism, Ryan Murphy spoke with Entertainment Tonight and questioned why the incarcerated brother would release a statement “without having seen the show.”
“The interesting thing he does not mention in his statement is that if you watch the show, I’d estimate that around 60 to 65% of our scripts focus on the abuse and what they claim transpired,” Murphy explained. “We approach this very sensitively, allowing them to present their case and speak freely about it.”
One of the most contentious plotlines in Monsters features an inappropriate relationship between the two brothers, including a scene where they share an intimate moment in the shower. Murphy emphasized that the series is rooted in the perspectives and theories of those involved in the case, like journalist Dominick Dunne.
Nathan Lane, who portrays Dunne, suggested that Menendez should “probably see it” before voicing further opinions.
Cooper Koch, the actor playing Erik in the series, expressed understanding towards the real-life Erik, noting the challenge of reliving traumatic moments on-screen. “I empathize with him completely. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to have such a harrowing part of your life broadcasted for millions to witness. I get it,” Koch shared via Variety. “In preparing for this role, I focused on thorough research and self-reflection to portray him with integrity and authenticity, supporting both him and his family.”
Monsters has quickly become the most popular show on Netflix.
