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The 2007 release of Alien vs Predator: Requiem significantly impacted both the Alien and Predator franchises. The film not only continued the crossover between the two series, but also showed what a Xenomorph offspring of a Predator would look like. It expanded on Predator lore while also making some subtle changes to the established Alien universe. Key developments included the Predators’ response to the events of the first film and the Weyland-Yutani Corporation obtaining Predator technology, both of which had lasting consequences for their respective storylines.

The popular Netflix series Emily in Paris returned to the streaming charts after its fifth season premiered on December 18th. The show was the second most-watched English-language series on Netflix for the week of December 15th-21st, racking up 13.5 million views and a total of 78 million hours watched. It was only surpassed by the miniseries Man Vs. Baby, starring Rowan Atkinson. Surprisingly, Emily in Paris even outperformed all seasons of Stranger Things, which currently holds five spots in the Top 10, ahead of its final season.

A new trailer released in theaters over Christmas features Chris Hemsworth reprising his role as Thor, shown seemingly praying to the memory of his father, Odin, before facing off against Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom. The trailer also confirms India Rose Hemsworth will return as Love, Thor’s adopted daughter (previously Gorr’s child), last seen in Thor: Love & Thunder. Through a few powerful scenes, Thor hints at just how dangerous Doom will be for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Films like Prisoners, Gone Girl, The Hateful Eight, and Knives Out all fit this trend. However, many other mystery films, even those that were initially popular, haven’t stood the test of time and are largely forgotten. It would be wonderful if they received renewed attention.

I just finished watching Neighborhood Watch, which landed on Hulu on December 12th, and it’s a surprisingly engaging little mystery. The script, by Sean Farley, and direction by Duncan Skiles, centers around an odd couple: Dennis Quaid plays Simon, a man with a mental disability who thinks he’s seen a kidnapping, and Morgan plays Ed, his skeptical but ultimately helpful retired security guard neighbor. When the police dismiss Simon’s concerns, these two team up to find the missing woman. It’s a solid story with support from Cecile Cubiló, Jim Klock, and Malin Akerman, and definitely worth a watch if you’re looking for something a bit different.