Tired of conventional movies? Craving something fresh and invigorating? Dive into the world of web series, catering to all your genres and imaginative desires. Despite operating on a lower budget than movies, web series are fiercely competing in terms of intricate character development, extensive story arcs, and delivering a cinematic experience. Are you constantly in search of content that surpasses your expectations? Look no further, as we’re here to satiate your appetite with our curated list of the finest web series for your viewing pleasure.
Web series boast longer runtimes compared to movies or films, with each segment termed a ‘webisode’ or ‘episode.’ Much like movies, web series explore a variety of genres, ensuring there’s something to pique your interest and suit your mood. The beauty is, you have a plethora of platforms available, allowing you to enjoy web series on any computer or smart device. Without further delay, let’s delve into what we’re here for!
Some Mind-Blowing Web Series to Add to Your Watchlist!
1. Prison Break (2005)
Lincoln Burrows faces charges for the murder of the vice president’s brother, resulting in his incarceration in a high-security prison. His sibling, Michael Scofield, an engineer who designed the prison, concocts a plan to facilitate their escape. To execute this plan, Michael intentionally gets himself arrested and sent to the same prison as Lincoln. Yet, the task is more challenging than anticipated, as a conspiracy unfolds against Lincoln. Breaking free poses significant difficulties, but the brothers are determined to give it their all.
2. Ozark (2017)
Image via Netflix
Ozark is a crime drama series, starring Jason Bateman as Marty and Laura Linney as Wendy Byrde, the story follows a married duo with their children, who have moved to the lake of Ozark in Missouri after a money laundering scheme goes wrong for a Mexican drug cartel. Marty’s partner was killed, but Marty is able to convince the Mexican drug cartel by telling them about his new plan to launder money.
They face many difficulties, including having to think about where to invest money and dealing with local criminals and the Kansas City mafia. With an intriguing story, this series catches your attention. Each episode ending with a cliffhanger leaves you on the edge of what will happen next, how they are going to survive in the new town, and how they are going to repay the debt to the mafia.
On one fine day, the missing Air Flight 828 mysteriously appeared out of nowhere after a span of five years. For the passengers and crew on the flight, it was like a few hours, but the world had aged 5 years. Their friends and family had moved on from the incident. As the series moves further, we get to see a mystery unfolding slowly. The well-chosen cast and compelling storytelling make it possible for the series to stand out among the few top web series. The series has three seasons, and the fourth one is on its way. You can watch this series on Netflix.
4. Love, Death, and Robots (2019)
Image via The Play List
This series is the ‘Pioneer’ for the animation industry. This anthology series is known for its mature short episodes covering all genres like horror, comedy, fantasy, and more, with a hidden message at the end. And second, is the variety of animation. This has it all. One can see the evolution of animation. According to its producer, David Fincher, this series has something for everyone. The series has had 3 seasons until now.
5. The 7 Lives of Lea (2022)
Image via Netflix
This French Netflix series captures our attention quite well by taking two concepts time travel and body swapping to the next level. This web series will keep you on the edge of your seat. Kudos to the directors who managed to pull off these two concepts together. Imagine waking up every morning and finding out that you are in the past and, on top of that, you are in the body of someone else. They can be anybody; your parents, your siblings, or your friends can solve a murder mystery.
Google Play Store is one of the main digital platforms where we can get loads of applications and games for the Android platform. Every month, new games in a variety of genres are developed, so there’s something to satisfy the interests of every player. You’ve come to the perfect spot if you’ve been looking for the best Android games!
The video game industry has been growing in prominence over time, and newer, more advanced technologies have helped it reach new heights. With 449k apps and games added to the Google Play Store in the first quarter of 2022, the Android gaming market is growing constantly. However, when it comes to games, the creators are pushing the boundaries of Android gaming by consistently creating excellent titles.
Top 5 Best Android Games that One Can Play Right Away!
Listed below are some of the best Android games which you can play on your devices right now.
1. Call of Duty
Image via Activision
After its first-person shooter PC games became popular, the series is now making a leap into the mobile gaming market. Tencent and Tim studios have released a free-to-play battle royale game called Call of Duty Mobile. Activision mobile game, which debuted in 2019, has become the second-highest-earning game in action and has more than 10 million downloads, making waves in the competitive market. The developers intended to create a game that would last a long time and have better replayability, even if they just created a single-player campaign, just like they did on the PC. Additionally, they conduct eSports contests, for players and professional gamers like as this year’s World Championship regional playoffs.
2. Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact is an open-world RPG in which we can dive deep into the world of Teyvat. Even though it’s evident from the preceding that this game draws a lot of inspiration from Legends of Zelda, it distinguishes itself with a distinctive plot and cast of characters. In the Teyvat, you will assume the character of a traveller and your twin is captured by some god-like entity. It’s time for you to start your search for your twin. The vast globe of the game has an anime-like feel to it. To gain the upper hand in boss encounters, you must gather loot boxes, gather fruits, and finish side tasks. This game’s USP is its cast of characters.
Following Gameloft’s successful release of Asphalt 8, Asphalt 9 boasts amazing racetracks, realistic graphics, and a ton of real-world supercars that set it apart from the competition. In the game’s cooperative, club, and multiplayer modes, players engage in real-time competition for the leaderboard.
All things considered, this is the best arcade racing style with next-generation graphics currently accessible.
4. FIFA Football
Image via Google Play
It was made by Electronic Arts and it has a record of being downloaded more than 10 million times. In the Android Market, FIFA Football has set a very high standard. You have to definitely play this game if you are an avid soccer fan. Along with realistic graphics and solid mechanics, Fifa Football offers a wide selection of players and leagues. The Bundesliga or LaLiga series has everything you need in soccer. The nicest thing about it is that you can use your 11v11 squad to compete in real-time against your fellow players.
5. Republique
Image via Maximum Android
Republique by Camouflaj Studio is a fantastic illustration of how far Android games have come to date, with its amazing graphics on par with console titles. The protagonist of the narrative is a young woman named Hope who is imprisoned in a room while you examine her. You choose to assist her after realizing right away that something suspicious is happening. From the observation room, you are going to have indirect influence over the girl and guide her in the direction of the greatest harm-minimization.
There is something new and different about this hacker mechanic that you won’t find in any other game. The game is a must-play because of its amazing graphics, gripping plot, and distinctive gameplay.
On the lookout for free games on Google Play Store and App Store? You’ve landed in the perfect spot to discover top-notch gaming titles to conquer on your device. Amidst the plethora of games on these virtual storefronts, we’ve curated a selection of the finest ones just for you! Keep reading to explore the world of free games.
There’s a rumour that premium and epic games are available in Google Play and App Store as paid versions only. But that’s not true when we find out for ourselves! Google Play Game Store offers free versions of super fun and exciting games which keep you entertained in your pastime.
Here’s the rundown of the best free games available on both Google Play and the App Store, ready for you to download at any time.
Alto’s Odyssey is a trending free-to-play Android game with not-so-annoying ads. You as the character have to ski down a hill, make huge jumps and occasionally swim to keep moving, tackling the obstacles purposely kept to hinder the character. Collect items on the way and win some customization options in the store. Control with easy mechanics and enjoy the stunning graphics which are graded with beautiful dark shades exposing the gorgeous silhouette of the valley hills in the background.
Making waves in 2022, Titanfall Apex Legends quickly rose to fame. The game’s allure lies in its intense 60-player run-and-gun royal shooting deathmatch. With one team of three pitted against 19 others, the last standing team in Kings Canyon gains the right to loot and fights their way for survival. It seems players have discovered an exciting alternative gameplay, offering a favorite mass shooting experience with user-friendly controls. The best part? They’ve made this gameplay available for free download!
4. Asphalt 9: Legends
Image via Asphalt
Asphalt 9 is the mini-speeding gameplay in place of the NFS PC game, released in July 2018. Dedicated to all speed lovers, you have multiple racing matches to complete and dare to compete with 50 other racing cars. Different modes of competition and content to play that you can’t keep your eyes off the screen. It has basic swipe and manual controls with an auto-go mechanism system which means you don’t have enough choice to accelerate. It comes with great graphics to look impressive. It is online-free gameplay that you can get to play with online multiplayer or solo as your choice.
3. Call of Duty: Mobile
Image via Activision
Call of Duty on the mobile version now is a free version. It has incredible gameplay that became popular instantly and the players love it for its intense online FPS PvP battle shooting. It’s designed as a 100-player battling and firing against one another and the winner stands out which is similar to PUBG and Fortnite. You get access to many accessories like gun skins. Display the character’s cool customized costume gear with some in-app purchases. The graphics are quite good which keeps the players engaged.
2. EA Sports Games
Image via EA
EA Sports Games received a mainstreaming glare of publicity. Because of being the only developer of general sports and soccer games which is the all-time favourite gameplay for massive soccer fans all over the world. Every following year, they drop engaging sports games such as having seen have like FIFA Soccer, NBA Live Mobile, EA Sports UFC, Madden NFL 20, and many others. As you play, it gets real like playing an actual sport with real aesthetic graphics. The control mechanism is simple and easy. Play as many EA Sports as you are interested in free of cost!
1. League of Legends
Image via Epic Games
League is endorsed by 100 million base fans, and counted as the popular eSports gameplay of 2021 was dropped by Wild Rift. It’s going out against 5v5 for 15-20 minutes of intense war to come off as the sole champion. Hands down for its best landscape graphics and engaging appealing characters. The best thing is there are no alternative ways to get wins but fair play for everyone to get the balanced champions. Call your friends to play as a team or battle as a solo. Many professional esports players have held their championship titles in this game and earned riches.
This roadmap will help you to know what best suits your gaming taste and get free-to-play Android games without worries!
Best Movies on Amazon Prime Video: In a bygone era, movies were exclusively reserved for the silver screen, requiring audiences to venture to theatres for a cinematic experience. However, with the advent of streaming services, high-budget films are now finding a new home that surpasses traditional cinema halls and cable TV providers. The shift toward streaming platforms as the preferred medium for movie consumption is evident in the consistently growing viewership trends. Among these platforms, Amazon Prime Video stands out as a major player, offering a plethora of compelling movies.
As one of the leading OTT platforms, Amazon Prime Video serves as a premier destination for diverse content. The platform not only hosts a vast library of movies, web series, and TV shows but also produces its own original content under the banner of ‘Amazon Originals.’ Moreover, Prime Video’s innovative Prime Store feature provides viewers with the opportunity to access the latest theatrical releases shortly after their debut, often within 15 days. While this early access option comes with a price tag, those who prefer a more budget-friendly approach can patiently await the films’ standard release on the platform.
In addition to its extensive content library, Amazon Prime Video has introduced engaging initiatives like the ‘What’s Your Mood’ campaign, which recommends content based on the viewer’s emotional state. For those moments of indecision when choosing what to watch, we’ve curated a list of titles tailored to cater to your preferences. Explore these recommendations and embark on a cinematic journey tailored just for you!
Guns Akimbo is an Action Comedy movie that stars Daniel Radcliffe and Samara Weaving. This action flick is about a game developer named Miles Cassonva played by Radcliffe who becomes a part of a real-life death match called “Skism” where users watch this fight-to-the-death match online.
Jumper (2011)
Image via Syfy
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
Director: Doug Liman
Duration: 1 hour 28 minutes
David Rice played by Hayden Christensen has a genetic anomaly that allows him to teleport anywhere, anytime in the world. David starts robbing banks and gets away without anyone noticing him. Little does he know that there are a group of people who call themselves “Paladins” who intend to kill David and people like him. The movie also stars Rachel Bilson as Millie Harris who plays her love interest David.
“Source Code” is a riveting sci-fi film featuring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, and Vera Farmiga. Jake Gyllenhaal portrays Colter Stevens, an army pilot recruited by the United States for a classified mission to apprehend a bomber responsible for an attack on a Chicago commuter train. Placed in the body of an unfamiliar man on the train, Colter is accompanied by his friend Christina Warren, played by Michelle Monaghan. With only 8 minutes to identify the bomber, Colter becomes trapped in a time loop until he apprehends the antagonist. The film unfolds as a well-crafted and thought-provoking narrative.
The Town (2010)
Image via Prime Video
Genre: Thriller/Crime
Director: Ben Affleck
Duration: 2 hours and 4 minutes
The Town is a Crime Thriller movie directed by Ben Affleck. Based on Chuck Hogan’s Prince of Thieves. An adept group of thieves rob a bank and hold a woman named Claire played by Rebecca Hall, a hostage. Things take a turn for the worse when one of the robbers romantically gets involved with Claire.
Transcendence (2014)
Image via Prime Video
Genre: Sci-fi/Action
Director: Wally Pfister
Duration: 1 hour and 59 minutes
No compilation is whole without a film featuring Johnny Depp. In this movie, Johnny Depp portrays Will Caster, while Rebecca Hall takes on the role of his wife, Evelyn Caster. The narrative unfolds as Will’s consciousness is transferred to a Quantum Computer to preserve him following a fatal shooting. As Will delves into groundbreaking discoveries, his motives come into question, adding a layer of intrigue to the storyline.
Aquaman (2018)
Image via CinemaBlend
Genre: Action/Fantasy
Director: James Wan
Duration: 2 hours 23 minutes
Featuring Jason Momoa in the role of Arthur, the film revolves around a young boy’s revelation that he is of both human and Atlantean descent. Bestowed with the extraordinary gift of communicating with marine life, Arthur Curry embarks on a journey to reclaim the Trident of Atlantis and restore his mother’s tarnished reputation, which led to her exile from Atlantis.
Legend (2015)
Image via Amazon
Genre: Crime/Drama
Director: Brian Helgeland
Duration: 2 hours 12 minutes
“Legend” is an enthralling Crime Drama film rooted in real events, unfolding in the late 1950s. The narrative traces the ascent of Ronnie and Reggie Kray, identical twins who leave an indelible mark on the organized crime landscape of London. For aficionados of Tom Hardy’s stellar performances, this movie is an absolute must-watch.
Highest Grossing Video Games: Games, are a universal experience that transcends age and time, weaving a common thread that connects us all. From the nostalgic days of Pacman and Galaga to the present, the gaming industry has undergone a remarkable evolution. Today’s games are characterized by heightened interactivity and complexity, marking a significant departure from the simplicity of their predecessors.
There’s a growing acknowledgement that games aren’t solely reserved for the enjoyment of children; instead, they cater to a diverse audience seeking immersive and sophisticated experiences. This paradigm shift has led to a surge in mature gamers, contributing to the ongoing transformation of the gaming industry. Some exceptional games have not only captivated audiences but also reshaped the entire landscape of gaming.
Here’s a list of some of those mind-blowing games that have broken records and have won numerous awards:
1. Minecraft
Minecraft had an initial private release in 2009 before its worldwide launch in 2011. This 3D video game offers players the creative freedom to construct virtually anything, earning it the moniker of an “Online Lego” experience. Players can craft entire worlds within the game, fostering a unique and expansive virtual environment.
Developed by Mojang Studios and envisioned by Markus Persson, Minecraft has achieved unparalleled success, emerging as the best-selling video game to date with over 230 million copies sold.
2. Pac-Man
Pac-Man, the iconic yellow ball with a distinctive start-up sound, is a universally recognized character. The game’s unique audio cue instantly signals its identity to players worldwide. In this classic, players navigate Pac-Man through a maze, engaging in a love-hate dance with ghosts that seek to thwart his progress. The primary objective is clear: devour all the ghosts before they devour you.
Crafted by the Japanese company Namco and brought to life by Toru Iwatani, Pac-Man made its debut on May 22, 1980. Iwatani, dissatisfied with the prevailing trend of alien-centric games, sought to create an experience centred around the theme of “eating.” The vision behind Pac-Man was to attract non-gamers, and little did the world anticipate the colossal success that awaited.
Even after 42 years, Pac-Man retains its timeless appeal, feeling as fresh as its initial release. The game graced arcade machines worldwide, and Namco’s earnings from Pac-Man exceeded a staggering 19 billion and 200 million dollars, adjusted for inflation.
Released in 1978 and created by Taito and Tomohiro Mishikado, Mishikado was the programmer and designer of the game. The game’s objective was that the player had to kill all the aliens. A little-known fact about this game – after killing a wave of aliens, the next wave of aliens goes faster as more of them are killed. This was originally a design flaw because killing the aliens would free up system memory and cause the game to run faster. Space Invaders in a way kickstarted the gaming era. This game After the success of this game, the Japanese were recognised as some of the most astounding game developers out there. The game grossed an estimated 19 billion dollars worldwide and cemented its name as one of the highest-grossing games ever made.
4. Street Fighter II
Street Fighter II was a massive success when it was launched in 1991, and it was developed by Capcom. This game is all about 1 v 1 fight battles. It’s been credited for popularizing the fighting genre. The majority of Street Fighter II’s developers were Japanese which again proves that the Japanese are some amazing game developers to develop arcade games. Street Fighter II debuted on Arcade Machines worldwide after that it was later introduced to Game Boy and SNES consoles which turned this game into a household name. Street Fighter brought in nearly 17 billion dollars.
5. Grand Theft Auto V
Boasting a remarkable sales figure of over 160 million copies, GTA V stands as one of the premier games in the gaming landscape. Developed by Rockstar Games, this title has been a monumental success, contributing significantly to Rockstar Games’ global revenue, which exceeded 6 billion dollars.
One of the standout features of GTA V is its enduring graphics, often sparking discussions on social media about the lifelike quality of its sunsets. This open-world adventure game offers players the flexibility to experience it from either a first-person or third-person perspective. Renowned for its intricate storyline and interactive gameplay, GTA has secured its place as a gaming masterpiece.
Best Movies on Netflix: In the fierce competition among streaming platforms like Disney+, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Paramount+, Netflix continues to reign supreme, boasting an impressive user base of 220.67 million paid subscribers. Netflix stands out not only for its vast content library but also for its original productions, encompassing movies, web series, TV shows, and a diverse range of entertainment options. Whatever your preferred genre, Netflix has curated the best selections tailored to your interests.
Movies, as powerful conduits of diverse art forms and cultures, play a vital role in uniting people. They serve as conversation starters, making it easy for us to engage with others. Bearing in mind the value of avoiding spoilers, here’s a curated list of some of the finest movies available for your viewing pleasure on Netflix.
Here are the Best Movies on Netflix that You Should Watch
5. Don’t look up
Image via Netflix
“Don’t Look Up” is a satirical comedy that brilliantly highlights the hypocrisy ingrained in our society. Featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, the storyline follows two astronomers who stumble upon a sensational discovery—a planet-killing comet the size of Mount Everest destined to collide with Earth in just six months. Despite embarking on media tours to sound the alarm, their warnings fall on deaf ears, with even the White House failing to take the impending catastrophe seriously. To unravel what it will truly take for everyone to just look up, this movie is a must-watch.
4. Bird Box
Image via Netflix
This horror movie is a must-watch as these types of movies take time to come out, this is something with a unique concept and I am sure to have not watched anything like this before. The movie casts Award-winning actress Sandra Bullock who plays the role of a single mother(Malorie), The movie takes place after an unknown global terror takes over the world and wipes out most of the population, no one knows what hit them the survivors only know that if they saw it they will die, a single mother and her children decided to undertake a dangerous journey through the woods and down the river in search of a last known sanctuary, but they must pursue the journey blindly.
3. Army of the Dead
Image via TV Insider
Under the supervision of visionary director Zack Snyder, starring Dave Bautista movie is set after a Zombie outbreak takes place in Las Vegas, Bly Tanaka a billionaire realizes he left his $200 million in the casino vault, He offered a former mercenary Scott Ward(Dave Bautista) and his team $50 million to recover his money before the U.S government nukes the city. However, there is a catch the horde of zombies is smarter compared to what we see in many other stereotypical zombie movies, they pose a challenge to Scott and his team on top of that the time is also running out, will Scott be able to complete the heist before the nuke? Catch the movie on Netflix.
2. The Gray Man
Image via So Bros Network
“The Gray Man” is a blockbuster action extravaganza, amassing a total streaming time of 96,470,000 hours and featuring A-list stars such as Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, and Dhanush. Directed by the Russo Brothers, known for their iconic work in titles like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, this movie, made with a whopping budget of $200 million, is a cinematic spectacle. The storyline revolves around a CIA agent who stumbles upon damning agency secrets and finds himself the target of a relentless pursuit by his psychopathic colleague. Excellently capturing the essence of the rivalry between the two agents, this film is a treat for action enthusiasts.
1. The Irishman
Image via Netflix
Emerging from the Marvel controversy, director Martin Scorsese returns with his R-rated crime drama film, “The Irishman.” Robert De Niro takes on the role of Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who joins Russel Bufalino and his Pennsylvania crime family with aspirations of becoming a top hitman. Scorsese reaffirms his title as the greatest filmmaker of all time, presenting a rare gem that revitalizes the gangster genre. With captivating visuals and an excellent storyline, the 3 hours and 29 minutes of runtime never feel tedious, making this movie an absolute must-watch.
Movies hold a profound significance as one of the most impactful forms of media that individuals engage with. They serve as a source of introspection, prompting us to contemplate life and glean essential lessons. Films inspire action for personal and societal improvement, offering insights into profound emotions such as sacrifice and grief. Throughout history, certain movies have emerged as transformative forces, altering our perspectives on life itself.
Curating a list of the best movies is no small feat, considering the vast pool of approximately 3000 films released globally each year. IMDb’s compilation of top-rated movies serves as a valuable guide, given the millions of ratings contributing to its rankings. Warning: spoilers ahead for those who haven’t seen these films. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and join us as we delve into a discussion of some of the greatest films ever, exploring aspects like entertainment value, critical acclaim, and where to watch them.
The top-rated film, boasting a remarkable 9.3 rating, delves into the profound theme of hope. The narrative unfolds with Andy Dufresne, portrayed by Tim Robbins, a former banker unjustly convicted of two murders and sentenced to life imprisonment at Shawshank prison. There, he encounters Ellis ‘Red’ Redding, played by Morgan Freeman, and discovers novel ways of navigating the challenges of prison life. The film masterfully portrays the heartwarming friendship that blossoms between Andy and his fellow inmates.
Crafted by the renowned Stephen King, the plot intricately captures the essence of both characters, immersing viewers in the soulful journey of their friendship. The culmination of their stories leads to one of the most powerful and memorable endings in cinematic history.
Available on HBO MAX
2. Forrest Gump (1994)
Image via Netflix Life
This film often escapes attention due to the multitude of great releases in the same year. It intertwines the narrative of a bright and endearing young boy from Alabama with a low IQ, offering a poignant counterpart in the form of a melancholic tale of romance and friendship. Tom Hanks steps into the shoes of Forrest Gump, the central character, as the film delves into pivotal moments in Gump’s life, portraying his journey of navigating numerous challenges with an unwavering belief in the goodness of things to come.
The storyline also introduces Jenny Curran, Gump’s childhood friend and love interest, whose life is intricately entangled with complexities. At the heart of this movie lies a profound message — that love knows no bounds and can blossom between anyone, transcending the various challenges life throws their way.
Available on Netflix
3. Fight Club (1999)
Image via Digitec
The cardinal rule of Fight Club is crystal clear: “You do not talk about Fight Club.” So, without delving into spoilers, let’s unravel the narrative. Under the skilful direction of David Fincher, the plot follows an insomniac individual, portrayed by Edward Norton, who grapples with the challenges of both insomnia and cancer. During his journey home, he encounters Tyler Durden (played by Brad Pitt), a soap salesman with a flair for rebellion. Tyler persuades Edward to embark on the creation of an underground fight club.
Brad Pitt masterfully brings the iconic character of Tyler Durden to life, and as the story unfolds, viewers become increasingly captivated by the profound philosophy and psychology that underpins Tyler’s character. This movie promises to keep you on the edge of your seat, culminating in an ending that is sure to leave you in awe.
Available on Apple TV
4. The Dark Knight (2008)
Image via Looper
Comes from an astonishing director Christopher Nolan, It is truly a gift to cinephiles. The Dark Knight follows its prequel Batman Begins (2005). Even if you are not a fan of the superhero genre you will love it, The Story revolves around a psychopath Joker played by the legendary actor Heath Ledger creates havoc in Gotham City and causes Batman to confront everything he believes. Joker, one of the most iconic characters ever made in the history of films, the spectacular conflicts of the moral dilemma between the vengeance of Gotham and Joker is worth watching.
Available on HBO MAX
5. Inception (2010)
Image via Guidepost
Another masterpiece from Christopher Nolan with a unique plot, imagine how good it would be if we steal without barging into someone else’s house but rather enter into their dreams and steal their ideas. Leonardo Di Caprio as Dom Cobb is a skilled thief who steals ideas of people by entering into their subconscious, but he gets quite an interesting job planting the idea rather than stealing it from someone else’s mind. The stunning visuals of Nolan, Zimmer’s music, and its debatable ending make this movie a must-watch.
Available on HBO MAX and NETFLIX
6. Source Code (2011)
Source Code is a thrilling sci-fi movie directed by Duncan Jones and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan and Vera Farmiga. Stevens is an army pilot recruited by the United States on a top-secret mission to find a bomber who bombed a Chicago commuter train. He finds himself in the body of an unknown man on the train and is accompanied by her friend Christina Warren played by Michelle Monaghan. He only has 8 minutes to find the man who has the bomb. Colter Stevens is stuck in this time loop unless and until he finds the antagonist. What follows next is a well-written and thought-provoking movie. The biggest reason to see this movie is that the secondary characters also matter along with the protagonist. Which makes this movie unpredictable. Colter Stevens’ interactions with each and every passenger feel completely real, it almost feels like he is interrogating them. Source Code is the most underrated flick on this list.
Available on Prime Video
7. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
Image via Slash Film
Edge of Tomorrow is an unexpected movie, to say the least, it’s full of surprises and with great acting performances by Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt. The plot of this film is simple – Live, Die & Repeat. It is set in an apocalyptic future which is marked by the extinction of humans by aliens. Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt are part of the resistance that is tasked with stopping the aliens at all costs. Tom Cruise lives the same day again and again which gives him a chance to improve himself and win the war against the aliens. The aliens vs humans storyline has been explored by many other films like Independence Day and Prometheus but the Tom Cruise starrer captures a unique aspect hence, separating it from all the other films that are out there. The concept of the time loop in this film makes it all the more interesting and it makes the viewers think, “What things will Tom do differently versus the last time he died ?” The film captures the emotion of “uncertainty” very well.
Available on Netflix and Prime Video
8. Gone Girl (2014)
Starring Rosamund Pike as Amy Dunne & Ben Affleck as Nick Dunne, the story is about a happily married couple and suddenly, one day Nick Dunne comes home to find his wife missing. All fingers point toward Amy’s husband Nick. What seemed like a perfect marriage on paper isn’t really perfect in reality and that’s the theme of the movie David Fincher does a phenomenal job of putting that in every viewer’s mind right at the outset. Gone Girl is filled with lies, truths & betrayal. It feels like you’re an onlooker watching the story unfold into a mystery within a mystery. The biggest surprise package of this movie is Pike’s character Amy Dunne. Rosamund Pike did a great job at acting. She felt her character Amy and her insanity and poured it all on the screen.
Available on Netflix
9. Predestination (2015)
Image via FilmAffinity
Predestination is a mind-bending sci-fi movie which had audiences awestruck. Ethan Hawke is underappreciated in the movie and his acting is phenomenal. The character of the “Unmarried Mother” played by Sarah Snook is amazing as well. The story is about an agent who works for an agency that stops crimes. The agents travel back in time to stop the criminals before they get the chance to commit the crimes. The story revolves around defeating the antagonist named “Fizzle Bomber” who has been eluding Ethan Hawke’s Agent for a long time. The concept of time travel has been introduced early on in the movie and the movie does not waste any time explaining the basics of time travel. You have to watch this movie a second time to understand what’s happening. It tells us about how one action can have endless possibilities of outcomes.
Available on Prime Video and Apple TV
10. I Care A Lot (2021)
Image via FilmAffinity
I Care A Lot is a Netflix film which is based on a really serious topic concerning Legal Guardians whose job is to care for the elderly. But this movie takes a dark turn when it shows a reckless and self-centred legal guardian named Marla Grayson played by actress Rosamund Pike who rips the elderly off of their life savings by proving in court that they are unable to take care of themselves and are placed in a care home. This movie shows how a legal guardian can abuse their authority for money and how emotionally and physically taxing it is for the elderly to be placed in a care home against their wishes. This movie captures realism very well.
Effects of Gaming: In the 90s and early 2000s, video games were primarily enjoyed for their entertainment value. Over time, the video game industry has undergone significant growth, propelled by technological advancements. The complexities and costs associated with creating games for consoles have escalated to unprecedented levels. Today, the video gaming sector not only rivals but surpasses the movie and music industries in terms of significance, marking an era of remarkable expansion.
The sheer number of gamers, exceeding two billion worldwide, is a testament to the industry’s colossal impact. Despite its tremendous growth, gaming has also been accompanied by certain drawbacks. Tragic incidents such as suicides, deaths, and even murders have been linked to the addictive nature of online video games. While gaming has positively impacted millions, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the challenges it poses, particularly concerning the well-being of younger generations.
Gaming means playing electronic games. Games can be played on consoles, PCs, laptops, Mobile or any other medium. The word ‘gaming’ refers to normal gameplay, for example, a hobby. The early games were not so popular, but their popularity has increased exponentially since then. Almost everybody has played games in their lives. Games can be played for recreation or enjoyment and professionally to earn money.
TYPES OF GAMERS: There are two types of gamers
Casual gamers: People who play games just for recreation, entertainment or to keep up with their friends are called casual gamers. Casual gamers don’t mind losing so much; they won’t keep trying till they win. A casual gamer’s priority is not playing games.
Professional gamers: People who play games to earn fame, money etc., are called professional gamers. Professional gaming has two types of Gamers.
Content Creators: Gamers who do live streams and post their gameplay on different platforms to get a fan following and earn money. Their main motive is to create videos which would entertain the people.
Esports Athletes: People who play games to become the best in their game are called esports athletes. Esports athletes compete in a fair environment to come out on top.
EFFECTS OF GAMES ON YOUNGSTERS
The effects of gaming are both positive as well as harmful.
POSITIVE EFFECTS OF GAMING
Improves cognitive functions: Gaming can enhance cognitive functions like memory, reasoning, perception and visual processing, according to research by the American Psychological Association.
Resource management and Planning: Some games provide limited resources to the players, and the player has to decide the best use of the resources, just like in real life. Games like Clash Of Clans are best known for planning and resource management.
Tackling unexpected problems and multitasking: In strategy games, some problems may arise from nowhere and need to be tackled immediately; this gives the person more confidence in tackling problems in real life.
Better Hand-Eye Coordination: Many types of research have shown that people who play shooting games have perfect Hand-Eye coordination as they have to keep track of positions and react quickly.
Educational Benefits: Children and teens come across various new terms that increase their knowledge while playing games.
Increased Aggression: Research has shown that gamers who play violent games such as Call Of Duty show more aggression than ordinary people. People are also desensitized to violence, decreasing their social nature.
Lowergrades: Children who spend much time playing games get tired and do not get enough time to study, thus lowering their grades.
Adverse Health Effects: People who spend more time sitting in one place playing games rather than doing some physical work increase the risk of obesity. Sometimes, people skip their meals and sleep, too; this can affect the body very severely in the long run.
Gaming Addiction: Addiction to games is a new study in the field of mental disorders as the cases of addiction to games are increasing rapidly. Addiction to games also results in depression, anxiety and social phobia.
Everything under control is a good thing for the human body; when it exceeds the limit, it starts causing different problems. Gaming also has its effects, it is good when limited to an extent, but when it exceeds the limits, it becomes the cause of many problems. One should focus on his/her job/studies beforehand and then play games, so gaming has no adverse effects.
Top Esports Tournaments in India: Esports, a component of gaming, involves teams or individuals competing in a competitive setting to achieve victory. The landscape of esports in India underwent a transformation with the introduction of the mobile game PLAYER UNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE (PUBG) in 2018. Platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, Loco, and Rooter serve as online channels for broadcasting esports content and can be easily followed there.
As the pandemic unfolded, individuals began engaging more in gaming, recognizing the potential within the realm of esports. Witnessing this surge in interest, a growing number of people were drawn to esports, leading to an expanding landscape. Presently, the esports industry has reached a scale where numerous official and unofficial tournaments are organized for various games. Prominent brands such as RED BULL, CORSAIR, AMD, and others extend sponsorships to diverse teams and players. Here’s a compilation of some of the most lucrative esports tournaments in India based on prize pools.
Esports Games with the highest popularity in India
BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA- BGMI is India’s current most popular Esports game. BGMI has the highest number of esports tournaments and content creators in India. Personalities like Mortal, Scout, and Jonathan gained popularity from Esports in BGMI.
VALORANT- Valorant is the most-played esports PC game in India. Valorant is an FPS(First Person Shooter) game with a fast-growing esports infrastructure. Many official/unofficial tournaments with a significantly large prize pool are conducted monthly.
Esports Tournaments With The Highest Prizepool in India
5. Skyesports Champions Series SCS
The Skyesports champions series is one of the biggest Valorant tournaments in India with a prize pool of $30000. Global Esports emerged as the tournament’s winner, and Enigma Gaming finished second. Both teams are seeded into the VCT 2022 Apac Challengers Stage 2 but eliminated from VCT in the recent play-ins and group stages, respectively.
4. Nodwin x Loco All-Stars Invitational LAN
Image via Nodwin Gaming
The Nodwin X Loco All-Stars Invitational tournament was the first LAN event after the Covid upsurge. It had a prize pool of INR 50 lakhs. Team TSM FTX won the event and took home Rs. 25 lakhs from it. Team HH (Hyderabad Hydras) came in second and grabbed Rs. 12 lakh prize money in the Lan event.
3. IQOO Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2021 (BGIS)
THE BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA SERIES was the first official open for all esports tournaments of BGMI. The competition had Rs. 1 Crore and a PMGC (PUBG MOBILE GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIP) slot. Team Skylightz Gaming won the BGIS, and team TSM FTX came at the second spot. The slot for PMGC had been allotted for the winner of BGIS, but due to the unavailability of passports of the top three teams, Team GODLIKE went to represent India in PMGC.
2. Free Fire India Championship – FFIC
Image via Free Fire
The Free Fire India Championship was the biggest Free Fire Esports tournament in India, with a massive prize pool of 7500000 rupees. Team Elite won the tournament with PVS Gaming coming in the second spot and the famous Total Gaming in the third spot. OLD MONK of team TSM won the overall MVP of the tournament. The top six teams were invited to the FFPL winter edition.
1. Battlegrounds Mobile Pro Series Season 1 (BMPS)
Image via Krafton
In the first spot comes the latest official tournament, THE BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE PRO SERIES(BMPS). Season 1 is the largest tournament in the prize pool in 2022. BMPS had a prize pool of 2 crore INR, equal to $256,042. Team Soul won the BMPS with clear dominance and marked the comeback of Team Soul in BGMI esports. Soul also got India’s PMWI (PUBG MOBILE WORLD INVITATIONAL) slot. OR esports finished at the second spot and is rumoured to get the second PMWI slot.
INCREASING POPULARITY OF ESPORTS TOURNAMENTS:
The popularity of esports is increasing very fast in India, and many people are investing in esports, contributing to the growth of esports in India. The biggest tournament of BGMI, the NODWINxSTARSPORTS Lan, will be conducted next month with a prize pool of Rs. 1.5 Crore. The event will be telecasted on TV on Star Sports, significantly boosting the different esports tournaments.
Player Poaching: Esports is a part of gaming where individuals/teams compete to become the best in that game. Thousands of teams and players are into esports of different games, be it PC or Mobile games. When the Players/Teams perform well, they are picked by different organisations which offer them a salary, boot camps, devices etc. and are bound by the contract to play under the name of that organisation for a specified duration as per the contract.
When the players are picked by the organisation and offered contracts, they must compete under that organisation’s name. There are different clauses in the contracts like bonuses and salary incrementations when they perform well and decrements when they don’t perform as per the expectations. Sometimes, one of the team’s players performs exceptionally well and seeks the limelight. The player’s exceptional performance attracts other organisations that want to sign that player. For signing a player who is already under a contract, the two organisations need to talk and agree.
What is Player Poaching in Esports?
Image via Krafton
When an organisation signs a player/team already under contract in another organisation without the consent of the organisation is termed Poaching in Esports.
Poaching is of two types:
Player poaching: A player signed from another organisation without formal talks between the two organisations is termed player poaching.
Team poaching: The whole team is signed from another organisation without formal talks between the two organisations is called Team poaching.
RECENT PLAYER POACHINGS IN BGMI COMMUNITY
Just one day ago, TSM alleged GODLIKE ESPORTS of poaching one of their players, ‘Shadow’, as Godlike announced the addition of Shadow to their Bgmi roster. After the announcement, TSM’s manager TSM Armin stated, “The fact that an esports organization can announce an already contracted player as their player is absurd and ridiculous to me. Still no communication from @godlike.in or anyone from management.”
TSM also stated that they would take legal action against this, so it does not happen with any other organisations in the Indian esports community
A few days ago, Team Insane Esports accused TeamX Spark of poaching one of their players named ‘SAYYAM’ who is still under contract with Insane Esports as Sayyam was spotted on the TX roster for an upcoming LAN event. Sayyad also expressed that he was subjected to unequal treatment from the org and had been experiencing mental trauma and harassment from the team. While on the Other hand, the org rejected the allegations and said all were false claims.
Three months ago, TeamX Spark accused Godlike esports of poaching two players, namely ‘GILL’ and ‘VIRU’, from their lineup as Godlike signed them without the consent of TeamX Spark. This was the same roster which had the highest ever achieved by an Indian team getting the second spot in the PUBG MOBILE WORLD LEAGUE SEASON 0 (PMWL), winning a massive amount of $55000.
Player poaching is not a good practice. It is a practice which is completely banned in western countries. Due to legal actions against Player poaching by different organisations, many players’ career has immediately come to an end.
In India, player poaching has normalised like it should not be because, in the past, the organisations were not so strict in this aspect. Also, the contracts had loopholes using which the organisations acquired their target players without activating the release clause.
CURRENT SCENARIO: INCREASING STRICTNESS TOWARDS PLAYER POACHING
With greater strictness regarding player poaching from the gaming community, player poaching has been reduced but is still practised by some organisations. These practices cannot end until the whole community joins a stand against Player poaching in Esports. Let’s hope for an excellent solution to this problem before legal actions take place and a player’s career is destroyed.
