Category: Movies/TV

The 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) have officially concluded, bringing together some of the biggest names in African music, entertainment and culture for a night celebrating the continent’s creative excellence.

The awards returned in 2026 after a two-year break, with this year’s ceremony taking place on September 12 at Annette Strauss Square in Dallas, Texas, as part of the expanded AFRIMMA MusicFest.

The 2026 edition saw artists from across Africa and the diaspora compete across regional, musical and cultural categories, with 41 honors ultimately presented.

DR Congo’s Fally Ipupa emerged as one of the biggest winners of the night, taking home Artist of the Year and the Crossing Boundaries with Music Award. Nigeria’s Davido won Album of the Year for 5ive, while BNXN and Sarz took home both Song of the Year and, alongside Diamond Platnumz and Juma Jux, competed among the year’s biggest collaborations.

Other notable winners included Tems, Ruger, Tyla, Marioo, Nikita Kering, Fola, Phyno, Mercy Chinwo, Eno Barony, DJ Tunez, London, Patoranking, Shenseea, Dope Nation, Victor Osimhen, Victony and Didi B. 

Full AFRIMMA 2026 Winners List

Regional Awards

Best Male West Africa
Nominees: Davido, Black Sherif, BNXN, Rema, Asake, Didi B, Djodje, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Ruger, Dino Santiago
Winner: Ruger 

Best Female West Africa
Nominees: Hadzi Vodushi, Tems, Josey, Viviane Chidid, Ayra Starr, Moliy, Tiwa Savage, Mariam Ba Lagare, Teni, Soraia Ramos
Winner: Tems 

Best Male East Africa
Nominees: Lij Michael, Marioo, Eddy Kenzo, Diamond Platnumz, Juma Jux, Bien, Mbosso, Joshua Baraka, Single Dee, Barnaba
Winner: Marioo 

Best Female East Africa
Nominees: Abigail Chams, Veronica Adane, Bridget Blue, Zuchu, Nikita Kering, Ariel Wayz, Njerae, Winnie Nwagi, Salemia
Winner: Nikita Kering 

Best Male Central Africa
Nominees: Matias Damásio, Dadju, TayC, Fally Ipupa, Calema, Gims, Gerilson Israel, Ko-C
Winner: Gerilson Israel 

Best Female Central Africa
Nominees: Anna Joyce, Rebo, Krys M, Blanche Bailly, Cindy Le Coeur, Espoir La Tigresse, Jessy B, Emma’a
Winner: Emma’a 

Best Male Southern Africa
Nominees: Scott Maphuma, Nutty O, Yo Maps, DJ Maphorisa, Zeze Kingston, Cassper Nyovest, William Last KRM, Kabza De Small
Winner: DJ Maphorisa 

Best Female Southern Africa
Nominees: Mawhoo, Tamy Moyo, Charma Gal, Babalwa M, Hanna, Uncle Waffles, Bombshell Grenade, Makhadzi, Tyla
Winner: Tyla 

Best Male North Africa
Nominees: Wegz, Stormy, Adviser, Amr Diab, Marwan Moussa, ElGrandeToto, DJ Snake, Cheb Momo
Winner: DJ Snake 

Best Female North Africa
Nominees: Marwa Loud, Chirine Lajmi, Manal, Souhila Ben Lachhab, Sherine, Latifa, Kenza Morsli, Zina Daoudia
Winner: Latifa

https://twitter.com/streamdorm/status/2098331224028631489?s=46

Music Awards

Crossing Boundaries with Music Award
Nominees: Burna Boy, Aya Nakamura, Rema, Davido, Toby Nwigwe, Flavour, Wizkid, Fally Ipupa, Odeal
Winner: Fally Ipupa

Best Newcomer
Nominees: Lisandro Cuxi, Mavo, Abigail Chams, 6uff, Lava Lava, Florito, Toxic Lyrikali, Fola
Winner: Fola

Artist of the Year
Nominees: Asake, Fally Ipupa, Diamond Platnumz, Burna Boy, Rema, Tyla, Tems, Davido, Bien
Winner: Fally Ipupa

Best Gospel
Nominees: Mercy Chinwo, Prosper Germoh, Christina Shusho, Miguel Buila, Bidemi Olaoba, Deborah Lukalu, Joel Lwaga, Moïse Mbiye, Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye
Winner: Mercy Chinwo

Best Female Rap Act
Nominees: Rosa Ree, Eno Barony, Bombshell Grenade, Freda Rhymz, Moozlie, Ssaru, Ami Yerewolo, Candy Bleakz
Winner: Eno Barony

Best Male Rap Act
Nominees: Odumodublvck, Jeriq, Ninho, Black Sherif, A-Reece, 6uff, Blxckie, Yung Lunya, Phyno, Himra
Winner: Phyno

Best Collaboration
Nominees: Bien & Alikiba — “Finale”; BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”; Davido & Omah Lay — “With You”; Diamond Platnumz ft. Juma Jux — “Joy”; Patoranking ft. Ruger — “Shake That”; Fally Ipupa ft. Wizkid — “Jam”; Jazzworx & Tukuthela — “Bengicela”; Flavour ft. Baaba Maal — “Afroculture”; Marvais Djo ft. Kano Choir — “Pile”
Winner: Diamond Platnumz & Juma Jux — “Joy”

Song of the Year
Nominees: Davido ft. Omah Lay — “With You”; BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”; Bien & Alikiba — “Finale”; Diamond Platnumz ft. Juma Jux — “Joy”; Moliy ft. Shenseea & Skillibeng — “Shake It to the Max”; Black Sherif — “So It Goes”; Ciza — “Isaka (6AM)”; Young Jonn — “Elumelu”; DopeNation — “Kakalika”; Marvais Djo ft. Kano Choir — “Pile”; DJ Kedjevara — “Ça Fait Mal”
Winner: BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”

Best Video Director
Nominees: Hanscana, Director Pink, Elias Belkader, Mateo Da Silva, TG Omori, Babs Direction, Jake Zaral, Dammy Twitch
Winner: Pink

Best DJ Africa
Nominees: DJ Spinall, DJ Dollar, Uncle Waffles, DJ Obi, DJ Tunez, DJ Sly King, DJ Commissioner Wysei, DJ Nelasta, Major League DJs, DJ Kaywise, DJ Dope Caesar, DJ Moh
Winner: DJ Tunez

Best African DJ USA
Nominees: DJ Kuncept, DJ Akua, DJ Prince, DJ Bode, DJ Chelsea, DJ Shinski, DJ Birame BB L’amour, DJ Oreo, Lex and Answer, DJ Nani
Winner: DJ Prince

Music Producer of the Year
Nominees: Masterkraft, Andre Vibez, 207, Dlala Thukzin, Magicsticks, MOG Beatz, Xduppy, London
Winner: London

Best African Dancer
Nominees: Masaka Dance Kids, Incredible Zigi, Poco Lee, Ghetto Kids, Angel Nyigu, Hope Ramafalo, Wet Bad Gang, Dancegod Lloyd, Hooliboy
Winner: Ghetto Kids

Best Male Reggae/Dancehall
Nominees: Valiant, Mr. Killa, Patoranking, Shatta Wale, Skillibeng, Vybz Kartel, Popcaan, Kranium
Winner: Patoranking

Best Female Reggae/Dancehall
Nominees: Shenseea, Jada Kingdom, Moliy, Spice, Koffee, Lila Iké, Shaneil Muir, Vanessa Bling
Winner: Shenseea

Best African Group
Nominees: Disco Misr, Calema, Show Dem Camp, Toofan, DopeNation, Team Paiya, Mi Casa, Bracket
Winner: Dope Nation

Album of the Year
Nominees: Black Sherif — Top of The Morning Era; Omah Lay — Clarity of Mind; Asake — M$NEY; Tyla — A-Pop; Burna Boy — No Sign of Weakness; Lloyiso — Never Thought I Could; Davido — 5ive; Leigh-Anne — My Ego Told Me To; Himra — SORRY I’M BAD
Winner: Davido — 5ive

Best African USA-Based Artist
Nominees: Kwate, Bills, Mannywellz, Moses Sumney, Libianca, Palmwine Tappers Band, Detty K, J Pako, Emma Nyra
Winner: Kwate

AFRIMMA Music Without Borders Award
Winner: Juma Jux

AFRIMMA Timeless Impact Award
Nominees: Timaya, Amr Diab, Sarkodie, Nameless, Oskido, Kcee, Slap Dee, Bebe Cool, Flavour, Mafikizolo
Winner: Timaya

Culture & Impact Awards

African Athlete of the Year
Nominees: Victor Osimhen, Serhou Guirassy, Ademola Lookman, Achraf Hakimi, Pascal Siakam, Faith Kipyegon, Nnamdi Madubuike
Winner: Victor Osimhen 

Best Influencer
Nominees: Peller, Carter Efe, Khaby Lame, Nasty Blaq, Lasizwe Dambuza, Ilyas El Maliki, Crazy Kennar, Sabinus
Winner: Nasty Blaq 

Best Actor/Actress
Nominees: Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Ademoye, Uche Montana, Elizabeth Michael “Lulu”, Zander Adika, Pallance Dladla, Masali Baduza
Winner: Uche Montana 

Best Comedian
Nominees: Basketmouth, Bovi, Warri Pikin, Eric Omondi, Trevor Noah, Godfrey, Patrick “Salvado” Idringi, Ty Ngachira
Winner: Warri Pikin 

Best Hypeman/MC
Nominees: Big Smart, Shody, Ogee The MC, MC Wild, Robot Boii, Balaa MC, MC Mignon, Do2dtun
Winner: Big Smart 

Community Impact Award
Nominees: Ester Mathew Tonlagha Foundation, Noella Foundation, FAWE, Educate!, IkamvaYouth, Street Child, Tony Elumelu Foundation
Winner: Esther Mathew Tonlagha

The remaining special recognition categories were also revealed as part of AFRIMMA’s expanded 2026 honors.

Best Francophone – Innoss’B
Best Lusophone – Gerilson Israel
AFRIMMA Fans Choice Award – Victony
AFRIMMA Rising Star – Florito
Francophone Viewers Choice Award – Didi B 

In an era dominated by blockbuster franchises, massive production budgets and increasingly expensive theatrical releases, Obsession has emerged as one of the most remarkable box office success stories in modern cinema.

The supernatural horror film, directed by first time theatrical filmmaker Curry Barker, has now surpassed $500 million at the worldwide box office, earning approximately $501.6 million globally as of late August 2026. Made on a reported production budget of just $750,000, Obsession has transformed from a low-budget genre film into a global cultural and commercial phenomenon.

The extraordinary run has also placed the film among the five highest-grossing horror movies of all time worldwide.

Obsession follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a music-store employee who discovers a mysterious object known as the “One Wish Willow.”

Driven by his feelings for his friend Nikki, played by Inde Navarrette, Bear uses the supernatural power to make her fall obsessively in love with him.

However, as the familiar saying goes, viewers should be careful what they wish for.

The wish gives Bear exactly what he asks for. But, with increasingly disturbing and dangerous consequences.

The film also stars Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless and Andy Richter.

Barker wrote, directed and edited Obsession, marking an impressive leap for the filmmaker, who previously built an audience as a YouTuber. The movie was filmed in Los Angeles in 2024 and premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025.

Following its premiere, Focus Features acquired the film for a reported $14 million to $15 million, making it one of the biggest acquisitions for a genre title at the festival. Jason Blum later joined the project as an executive producer through Blumhouse.

Obsession was released theatrically in the United States on May 15, 2026, opening to a respectable but far from record-breaking $17 million.

Rather than experiencing the usual decline in box office numbers after its opening weekend, Obsession continued to gain momentum. The film reportedly posted higher weekend totals than its debut across multiple consecutive weekends, driven by powerful word of mouth and growing interest among younger audiences, particularly Gen Z.

The film’s domestic earnings eventually climbed beyond $263 million, while strong performances across international markets pushed its worldwide total past the $500 million mark.

Its success in major markets, including the United Kingdom and China, helped turn what began as a modestly budgeted horror release into one of 2026’s biggest theatrical success stories.

With approximately $501.6 million in worldwide earnings, Obsession has officially climbed into the top tier of horror box office history.

Top 15 Highest-Grossing Horror Films of All Time Worldwide

Note: Figures are unadjusted for inflation and rankings may change due to ongoing theatrical runs, re-releases and final box office reporting.

1. It (2017) — $719.8 million
2. The Sixth Sense (1999) — $672.8 million
3. I Am Legend (2007) — $585.5 million
4. World War Z (2013) — $540.0 million
5. Obsession (2026) — $501.6 million
6. The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025) — $499.3 million
7. Jaws (1975) — $495.2 million
8. It Chapter Two (2019) — $473.1 million
9. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) — $452.0 million
10. The Exorcist (1973) — $430.9 million
11. Signs (2002) — $408.3 million
12. Prometheus (2012) — $403.4 million
13. Backrooms (2026) — $395.1 million
14. Sinners (2025) — $371.0 million
15. The Nun (2018) — $366.1 million

In an industry where many movies generate the bulk of their revenue during their opening weekend, Obsession continued to attract audiences long after its debut. That kind of staying power is increasingly rare and demonstrates the impact that strong word-of-mouth can have when audiences genuinely connect with a film.

The movie has also reportedly become the highest-grossing title in Focus Features history and one of the most profitable films ever when measured against its relatively tiny production budget.

Netflix has officially confirmed that Season 2 of the hit Nigerian thriller series Blood Sisters will premiere globally on June 5, 2026, and early teaser footage is already giving fans clues about what to expect from the long-awaited return.

The upcoming season will see the return of fan favourites Ini Dima-Okojie and Nancy Isime as Sarah and Kemi, whose lives were thrown into chaos following the shocking death of Kola Ademola in Season 1.

From the newly released teaser trailer, it appears the duo are far from safe. The visuals suggest that the consequences of Kola’s death are beginning to spiral even further, with the powerful Ademola family seemingly more dangerous than ever.

The trailer also hints at deeper emotional tension, betrayal, revenge plots, and psychological warfare as the story unfolds. Unlike the first season, which focused heavily on escape and survival, Season 2 appears set to explore trauma, paranoia, and the emotional aftermath of the events that changed everyone involved.

Kemi is still not the one to play with! Blood Sisters Season 2, on Netflix 5th June. pic.twitter.com/0K2bM7R0Tu

— Netflix Nigeria (@NetflixNaija) May 22, 2026

Returning cast members include Kate Henshaw, Kehinde Bankole, Uche Jombo, and Daniel Etim Effiong, while new additions such as Michelle Dede and Mike Afolarin are expected to introduce fresh twists and alliances to the story.

Directed by Kayode Kasum and Daniel Emeke Oriahi, the series remains a major collaboration withEbonyLife Studios and Netflix.

Since its debut in 2022, Blood Sisters has grown into one of the most successful Nigerian streaming series globally, for its gripping storyline, standout performances, and suspense driven storytelling. 

Markiplier has officially confirmed a major and unconventional release strategy for his upcoming horror film Iron Lung, revealing that the movie will be available for digital purchase exclusively through YouTube.

The announcement positions Iron Lung as one of the most high-profile experiments yet in creator-led film distribution, bypassing traditional streaming platforms and theatrical-first release models in favor of a direct to audience digital storefront on YouTube.

According to details shared by Markiplier, the film will not initially debut on subscription based streaming services. Instead, viewers will be able to buy the movie digitally on YouTube, effectively treating the platform as a standalone cinema marketplace.

Markiplier is one of the most influential digital creators to emerge from YouTube, known for his energetic personality, comedic timing, and strong presence in the gaming and entertainment space. He first gained widespread popularity through gameplay videos, especially horror games, where his expressive reactions and storytelling style helped him build a massive global audience.

Over the years, Markiplier has expanded beyond traditional content creation into larger creative projects, including podcasts, live events, charity initiatives, and filmmaking. He has built a reputation not just as a content creator, but as a multi-platform entertainer with a strong focus on creative independence and audience engagement. His move into feature filmmaking represents a natural extension of his long-standing interest in storytelling and horror.

Iron Lung is an upcoming independent horror film directed by Markiplier, based on the critically acclaimed indie horror game of the same name. The story is set in a dystopian future where humanity has been pushed into survival mode after a catastrophic cosmic event, leaving the remnants of civilization dependent on exploration missions into deadly, unknown environments.

The film follows a lone pilot sent inside a small, submerged vessel, commonly referred to as an “iron lung” tasked with exploring a blood-filled ocean on a mysterious moon. Cut off from the outside world, the protagonist must document what they find while confronting isolation, fear, and the psychological strain of confinement.

Unlike conventional studio horror films, Iron Lung is being developed as a fully independent project, with a strong emphasis on atmosphere, tension, and minimalism rather than dialogue heavy storytelling. It has attracted significant attention due to both its unique premise and Markiplier’s involvement as both creator and lead figure behind the production.

The film is now also notable for its planned release strategy, which includes direct digital purchase via YouTube, positioning it as one of the most ambitious creator led film distribution experiments in recent years.

The decision has sparked significant interest across both the creator economy and film industry circles. Markiplier, already one of YouTube’s most influential personalities, is leveraging his audience to test whether a creator-driven film can bypass Hollywood gatekeeping while still achieving mainstream reach.

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Uzoamaka Power is stepping into the spotlight with her first feature screenplay, Call of My Life, a romantic comedy already generating strong early reactions ahead of its nationwide cinema release on May 15, 2026.

Produced by Bluhouse Studios and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, the movie marks a major creative milestone for the Actress, who not only wrote the screenplay but also stars as the film’s lead character, Soluchi.

The film follows Soluchi, a hopeless romantic and call-center agent struggling to move on after being heartbroken by her ex-boyfriend Kalu, played by Zubby Michael. Her life takes an unexpected turn when a routine customer service call introduces her to Eli, portrayed by Andrew Yaw Bunting, sparking the possibility of a fresh start and a new kind of love story.

Blending humor, heartbreak, and emotional vulnerability, Call of My Life explores themes of love, healing, loneliness, and self-discovery. Early viewers at the Lagos premiere on May 10 have described the film as one of Nollywood’s most refreshing romantic comedies in recent years, praising its chemistry, dialogue, and feel good energy.

The movie boasts an impressive supporting cast featuring Nollywood veterans and fan favorites including Nkem Owoh, Patience Ozokwor, Broda Shaggi, Beverly Osu, and Justin UG.

Music lovers will also enjoy special live performances from Johnny Drille and Cobhams Asuquo, adding even more emotional depth to the cinematic experience.

Directing the project is Apampa Oluwadamilola, popularly known as Dammy Twitch, who makes his feature film directorial debut after years of success in music video production. Filming took place across Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu, giving the movie a colorful and distinctly modern Nigerian atmosphere with touches of Ghanaian collaboration.

Speaking about the project, Uzoamaka Power revealed that the story was first conceived in 2018 while she was working at a call center. What began as a few pages written on Microsoft Word later evolved into a full feature after encouragement from producer Blessing Uzzi.

Power explained that while screenwriting felt more lonely and demanding than acting, the process became deeply fulfilling because it allowed her to tell an honest story about love in all its forms; the joy, the heartbreak, and the healing that follows.

With strong premiere reactions, a star-studded cast, and a heartfelt story, Call of My Life is shaping up to be one of Nollywood’s standout romantic comedies of 2026 which has picked my interest as an editor. 

Watch Call of My Life in cinemas starting tomorrow, May 15, 2026. 

The Michael Jackson biopic Michael has officially crossed the $600 million mark at the global box office, making it one of the most commercially successful films of 2026.

The film continues to perform strongly across international markets, with consistent audience turnout driving its steady climb at the box office since release. 

A  musical biographical drama that chronicles the life and career of Michael Jackson, tracing his journey from his early days with the Jackson family to his evolution into one of the most influential entertainers in history.

The film highlights key moments in Jackson’s career, including his breakthrough as a solo artist, his groundbreaking performances, and the global cultural impact of his music. It also explores the personal pressures and challenges that came with worldwide fame.

The project has also benefited from strong word of mouth, with viewers praising its emotional depth, musical recreations, and portrayal of Jackson’s rise from child star to global superstar.

The lead role of Michael Jackson is played by Jaafar Jackson, a member of the legendary Jackson family and the son of Jermaine Jackson.

Jaafar’s casting drew global attention due to his close resemblance to his uncle and his musical background. Before the film, he was already pursuing a career in music, but Michael marks his most high-profile acting role at the moment. 

His performance has been widely discussed for its attention to detail in recreating Michael Jackson’s stage presence, dance style, and vocal delivery. 

The Television Academy has officially announced the recipients of the 19th Television Academy Honors, with Heated Rivalry headlining a list of curated six programs recognized for their cultural and social impact.

The annual Honors differ from traditional awards like the Primetime Emmy Awards by focusing specifically on television content that drives meaningful social change, sparks conversation, and reflects real-world issues through storytelling.

Full List of Honorees

The 2026 honorees include:

Heated Rivalry
Adolescence
Dying for Sex
South Park
We Are Ayenda
The Sixth

Among this year’s honorees, Heated Rivalry has drawn particular attention for its exploration of: LGBTQ+ identity in professional sports, The tension between public image and private life and Evolving definitions of masculinity in competitive spaces.

The 2026 list reflects a wide range of themes from personal identity and sexuality to global social justice and institutional power. Projects like We Are Ayenda and The Sixth expand the scope beyond Western narratives, while, the inclusion of South Park explores how animated series can also play a role in shaping public discourse through satire and commentary.

Founded in 1946 in Los Angeles, the Television Academy was created to advance the television industry and recognize excellence in the medium. It is best known for organizing the Primetime Emmy Awards, widely regarded as television’s highest honor.

However, the Television Academy Honors, introduced in 2008, were designed to spotlight a different kind of achievement. Unlike the Emmys, which reward artistic and technical excellence, the Honors recognize content that raises awareness around critical issues, encourages public dialogue and contributes to social progress.

Each year, a select group of honorees is chosen for their ability to influence culture and inspire change, regardless of genre or format.

Honorees will be formally recognized at a ceremony scheduled for May 20, 2026, at the Academy’s Saban Media Center in Los Angeles.

Follow us on X for more Film updates.

Heated Rivalry has officially been named one of the recipients of the 19th Television Academy Honors. pic.twitter.com/ajknkfvRj2

— Streamdorm | Film & TV News (@Streamdorm_) April 16, 2026

When Season 3 premiered on April 12, 2026, the episode opened and closed with tributes to three figures whose absence has deeply shaped the show’s journey: Angus Cloud, Eric Dane, and Kevin Turen.

The premiere began with a dedication to Eric Dane and closed with an “in memoriam” message honoring all three, subtle but weighty gestures that frame the episode in reflection. 

Angus Cloud, who portrayed the fan-favorite Fezco, passed away in 2023, leaving a noticeable gap in the show’s emotional core. His performance had become one of the series’ most grounded elements; quiet, protective, and deeply human. The new season acknowledges that absence not with heavy exposition, but with a tone that feels altered, more aware of loss.

Eric Dane, known for his role as Cal Jacobs, also passed away in 2026. His character’s presence in the show had been complex and often unsettling, but undeniably central to its tension. The decision to open the premiere with a dedication to him signals just how significant his contribution was to the series’ identity.

Behind the scenes, Kevin Turen’s passing marked another major loss. As a producer, Turen played a key role in shaping Euphoria into one of television’s most visually distinct and culturally dominant shows. His influence is less visible on screen, but just as embedded in the show.

Series creator Sam Levinson had previously hinted that Season 3 would be shaped by grief. The premiere makes that clear without saying it outright. There’s a tonal shift less chaotic, more reflective as if the show itself is taking a moment to process everything it’s lost.

The third season of Euphoria premiered on April 12, 2026, introducing a major shift in the show’s direction. Set five years after the events of Season 2, the new season follows the characters as young adults dealing with the long-term consequences of their past actions.

The premiere episode centers on Rue, played by Zendaya, whose storyline takes a darker turn as she becomes involved in drug trafficking, marking a more intense and crime-driven narrative.

Season 3 is expected to run for eight episodes, released weekly, and is widely seen as a concluding chapter for the series, with a stronger focus on accountability, survival, and life beyond adolescence.

https://twitter.com/streamdorm_/status/2038666020425007470?s=46

The world’s most iconic cartoon rivalry is returning to cinemas with a fresh twist.

Tom and Jerry is back in a brand new feature film titled Tom and Jerry: Forbidden Compass, a fully animated adventure that reimagines the legendary cat and mouse duo for today’s audience. The film is scheduled for a wider theatrical rollout, including a September 9, 2026 release in the United States, following its earlier debut in Asia.

Originally created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Tom and Jerry has remained a cultural staple for over eight decades. Known for its fast-paced slapstick humor and minimal dialogue, the franchise has thrived across multiple formats, from theatrical shorts to television series and feature films.

With Forbidden Compass, the franchise takes a more cinematic direction. The film is directed and written by Zhang Gang, and is produced in collaboration with Warner Bros. Pictures and China Film Co., pushing a strong international production effort. 

The story begins in familiar territory, with Tom chasing Jerry inside a museum. However, the chase quickly takes a dramatic turn when they accidentally activate a mysterious magical compass. This device transports them into a completely different world, far removed from their usual suburban chaos.

In this new realm, Tom and Jerry encounter unfamiliar characters and become entangled in a larger conflict tied to the power of the compass. While their rivalry remains intact, the story introduces a stronger narrative arc, blending fantasy, adventure, and world-building with the franchise’s traditional comedic style. 

One of the biggest changes in Forbidden Compass is its animation style. Unlike the hybrid live-action approach of Tom & Jerry, this film is fully computer animated.

The film features two distinct voice casts across different versions, including its original Chinese release and the English dub.

For the original version, the cast includes Zhang Wenjie, Tu Xiongfei, Li Baixin, and Jiang Wen, among others, voicing key characters in the film’s fantasy setting. 

For the English dub, a wider ensemble of well-known voice actors has been confirmed. Eric Bauza and Benjamin Diskin take on the roles of Tom and Jerry respectively. Supporting roles include Travis Willingham, Janice Kawaye, Matthew Yang King, and Roger Craig Smith, alongside a broader ensemble cast contributing additional voices. 

This dual-cast structure reflects the film’s international production strategy, allowing it to appeal to both regional and global audiences.

Tom and Jerry: Forbidden Compass first premiered at the Shanghai International Film Festival in June 2025 before receiving a theatrical release in China in August of the same year. 

Rather than launching simultaneously worldwide, the film is following a staggered global rollout. Its U.S. theatrical release is set for September 9, 2026, with other regions expected to follow based on distribution plans. 

Mercy is a very beautiful movie that tells the story of “how everybody makes mistakes” and the consequences and beauty of such mistakes. It reminds us not to place our full trust on AI and remember how humans are capable faults.

It prides itself in the grey area of our humanity. We are all capable of doing good and what’s right, we are also capable of doing the complete opposite.

Chris Pratt plays a struggling detective in a failing marriage due to his habit of drinking, despite his fault he loves his family, but does family love itself?

Rebecca Ferguson plays an AI judge that prides itself in the fact…but does it understand truth, mistakes and guts?

Chris Pratt character stands trial in a court for murdering his wife and he has 90 minutes to defend himself using every and all available evidence.

This film while with good intentions reminded us that in the age of data and information, your data isn’t truly private. It also reminds us of how humans can let their emotions get the best of us. How we can twist and omit facts to our agenda.

Unlike every other futuristic movie out there, this film did it’s best to create a future based on our reality today.

No flying cars as predicted in 1999 yet but humans will still be humans doing what we know and do best.

The most noticeable fault in this movie is how the AI which supposed to operate as an AI behaves more human than AI. It claims it’s function is to be the judge, jury and executioner but it forgot to mention it is also your lawyer and your partner. The number of times it helped Chris Pratt point to the right direction, I could not count.

That said, ‘Mercy’ shows you mercy and delivers what ‘War Of World’ wish it showed. It’s a well written film that knows when and when not to use the over advertised sci-fi elements of a futuristic film.

Official Rating: 8.5/10