1. The Beatles’ Films

• “A Hard Day’s Night” (1964) – This classic captures the Beatles at the height of Beatlemania, with Liverpool settings like Lime Street Station and scenes that feature local landmarks.
• “Yellow Submarine” (1968) – An animated adventure inspired by the Beatles’ music, it’s not only an iconic film but also offers a psychedelic tribute to Liverpool’s most famous exports.

2. “Nowhere Boy” (2009)

This biopic about John Lennon’s teenage years explores his early life in Liverpool, capturing the city’s atmosphere during the 1950s. It dives into Lennon’s relationships and the beginnings of his music career.

3. “The 51st State” (2001)

Starring Samuel L. Jackson and Robert Carlyle, this action-comedy features Liverpool prominently as Jackson’s character, a chemist, tries to navigate a deal gone wrong in the city’s underground. Liverpool’s gritty, urban scenery adds to the film’s edgy vibe.

4. “Yesterday” (2019)

In this whimsical romantic comedy, a struggling musician wakes up in a world where the Beatles never existed, and he’s the only one who remembers their songs. While most of the film travels beyond Liverpool, the city’s connection to the Beatles plays a strong thematic role.

5. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (2016)

Liverpool stood in as 1920s New York in this Harry Potter universe spin-off. St. George’s Hall and other historic buildings in Liverpool added authenticity to the film’s “old New York” setting, showcasing Liverpool’s architectural versatility.

6. “Sherlock Holmes” (2009)

Guy Ritchie’s Victorian-era reboot of Sherlock Holmes used Liverpool to recreate old London. The Albert Dock and Stanley Dock were used to portray gritty parts of the city, adding to the dark, atmospheric feel of the movie.

These movies capture Liverpool’s charm, culture, and unique aesthetic, making it clear why filmmakers continue to return to the city for inspiration.

1. The Sopranos

Why it’s great: The Sopranos took the mob genre and turned it on its head by focusing on Tony Soprano’s struggles with family, mental health, and the expectations of his crime family. With its deeply flawed characters, morally complex storylines, and layered exploration of human psychology, it paved the way for a new era of antiheroes in television and set a gold standard for serialized drama.

2. Breaking Bad

Why it’s great: This intense, meticulously crafted series follows the transformation of Walter White from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher into a ruthless drug kingpin. Known for its tense storytelling, character development, and flawless performances (especially by Bryan Cranston), Breaking Bad keeps viewers glued to the edge of their seats, making it one of the most celebrated dramas of all time.

3. Friends

Why it’s great: Few shows are as universally beloved as Friends. Its humor, relatable characters, and catchy theme song made it a cultural phenomenon. The dynamic of the six friends became iconic, and the show’s blend of humor and heart ensures its relevance even decades later. It’s comfort TV at its finest, filled with timeless moments and unforgettable catchphrases.

4. Game of Thrones

Why it’s great: Based on George R.R. Martin’s epic fantasy novels, Game of Thrones brought cinematic scope to TV. Known for its political intrigue, shocking twists, and massive production scale, it became a global sensation. Despite a controversial ending, it remains celebrated for its groundbreaking visual storytelling, complex characters, and impact on pop culture.

5. The Wire

Why it’s great: The Wire goes beyond traditional crime drama, offering a gritty and realistic look at the socioeconomic issues of Baltimore. Each season dives deep into a different sector—law enforcement, education, politics, media, and more—creating a nuanced portrayal of urban America. Its social commentary, layered narratives, and powerful realism have made it an enduring classic.

6. The Simpsons

Why it’s great: As the longest-running animated series, The Simpsons set the bar for satirical comedy on TV. With humor that’s often clever, poignant, and sharply observant of society, it became much more than a cartoon—it’s a cultural touchstone. The show has influenced countless animated and live-action comedies that followed, and it still appeals to viewers of all ages.

7. MAS*H

Why it’s great: Mixing humor with the realities of war, MASH* was groundbreaking for its ability to balance comedy and drama in a wartime setting. Its finale remains one of the most-watched episodes in television history, reflecting its impact on audiences. The show is a classic example of television as both entertainment and social commentary, handling tough topics with depth and wit.

8. The Twilight Zone

Why it’s great: The Twilight Zone revolutionized the anthology format with its imaginative and often chilling stories. Blending science fiction, horror, and social commentary, each episode offered a moral or philosophical twist. Its influence is seen across decades, inspiring modern storytelling with its creativity and fearless exploration of complex themes.

9. The Office (US)

Why it’s great: With its relatable characters and mockumentary style, The Office (US) became an instant classic for its humor and humanity. It made awkward comedy mainstream and introduced memorable characters like Michael Scott and Dwight Schrute. The show’s balance of humor and heartfelt moments has earned it a devoted fan base and a place among the best sitcoms.

10. Seinfeld

Why it’s great: Famously called a “show about nothing,” Seinfeld excelled at finding humor in the mundane. Its unique style, quirky characters, and iconic catchphrases made it a comedy juggernaut. It redefined sitcoms with its observational humor and has influenced countless shows since, cementing its place as a TV legend.

11. The West Wing

Why it’s great: With its sharp writing and idealistic portrayal of the inner workings of the White House, The West Wing offers a compelling mix of politics, drama, and heart. Known for Aaron Sorkin’s brilliant dialogue and complex characters, it brought a sense of dignity to political drama and remains a favorite among viewers who appreciate smart storytelling.

12. Stranger Things

Why it’s great: Combining 1980s nostalgia with thrilling supernatural elements, Stranger Things captures the magic of classic sci-fi and horror films. Its blend of suspense, humor, and adventure—along with a talented young cast—has made it one of Netflix’s biggest successes and a cultural touchstone for a new generation of viewers.

13. The Crown

Why it’s great: The Crown offers a gripping portrayal of the British monarchy, blending historical events with intimate character studies. Its meticulous production design, stellar performances, and powerful storytelling have made it a hit, shedding light on the often-hidden dynamics within one of the world’s oldest institutions.

14. Mad Men

Why it’s great: Set in the 1960s advertising world, Mad Men is as stylish as it is complex. Known for its slow-burn storytelling and richly developed characters, the show explores themes of identity, gender, and ambition against the backdrop of a changing America. It’s a visually stunning, nuanced drama that has earned its place in TV history.

15. Fargo

Why it’s great: Inspired by the Coen brothers’ film, Fargo redefined anthology television with its dark humor, eccentric characters, and unconventional crime stories. Each season introduces new storylines and characters, making it fresh yet thematically cohesive. It’s a masterclass in suspense, irony, and character-driven storytelling.

These series have left an indelible mark on television, pushing boundaries, redefining genres, and inspiring countless shows that followed. From the character-driven dramas of Breaking Bad and The Sopranos to the comedic genius of Friends and Seinfeld, these shows are truly the best of the best, each bringing something unique and unforgettable to the world of entertainment.

This adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic 1925 novel brings to life the story of enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby, whose lavish parties and yearning for his lost love, Daisy Buchanan, create a tale of glamour, mystery, and heartbreak. Gatsby has captured audiences worldwide, including a notable 2013 film adaptation directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, and Carey Mulligan.

The musical features music and lyrics by Jason Howland (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Little Women) and Nathan Tysen (Paradise Square), with a book by Kait Kerrigan (The Mad Ones). It premiered at New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse in late 2023 before moving to Broadway the following year.

Chunsoo Shin, lead producer of The Great Gatsby, expressed excitement about bringing the show to London, saying, “I am thrilled to bring this timeless, glamorous, and resplendent production to the UK’s West End after its success in the US. The London Coliseum, with its grand architecture and historic charm, provides the perfect setting to transport audiences back to the opulence of the 1920s.”

The production’s creative team includes director Marc Bruni (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical), choreographer Dominique Kelley (So You Think You Can Dance), costume designer Linda Cho (Anastasia, A Gentleman’s Guide…), set and projection designer Paul Tate de Poo III (Spamalot, Tommy at The Kennedy Center), lighting designer Cory Pattak (Spamalot), and sound designer Brian Ronan (Beautiful, The Book of Mormon). Hair and wig designs are by Charles G. LaPointe (The Cher Show, Spongebob Squarepants) and Rachael Geier, with arrangements by Jason Howland, orchestrations by Jason Howland and Kim Scharnberg (Jekyll & Hyde), and Grammy Award-winning Billy Jay Stein of Strike Audio (Beautiful cast album) as music producer.

Mark your calendars for a show that promises to be as grand and opulent as the era it celebrates!

1. The Godfather (1972)

Director: Francis Ford Coppola
A landmark in cinema history, The Godfather follows the powerful Corleone crime family and explores themes of loyalty, power, and betrayal. Marlon Brando and Al Pacino give unforgettable performances as father and son caught in the ruthless world of organized crime. With stunning cinematography and an intricately woven plot, The Godfather remains a cinematic masterpiece that set the bar for gangster films.

2. Citizen Kane (1941)

Director: Orson Welles
Often hailed as the greatest film ever made, Citizen Kane tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy newspaper magnate whose life is revealed in flashbacks after his mysterious last word, “Rosebud.” The film is a technical marvel with groundbreaking use of deep focus and non-linear storytelling. Welles’ direction and performance made Citizen Kane an innovative classic that shaped modern filmmaking.

3. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Director: Quentin Tarantino
With its non-linear narrative and stylized dialogue, Pulp Fiction redefined independent cinema in the ’90s. Featuring intersecting storylines of criminals and eccentrics in Los Angeles, the film showcases iconic performances from John Travolta, Uma Thurman, and Samuel L. Jackson. Tarantino’s bold storytelling and dark humor have cemented Pulp Fiction as a cult classic that remains influential.

4. Schindler’s List (1993)

Director: Steven Spielberg
This heart-wrenching historical drama recounts the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over a thousand Polish Jews during the Holocaust. Spielberg’s meticulous direction and the haunting cinematography by Janusz Kamiński make Schindler’s List a powerful testament to humanity and courage amidst unspeakable horror. Ralph Fiennes and Liam Neeson give career-defining performances in this emotional journey.

5. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Director: Frank Darabont
Adapted from a Stephen King novella, The Shawshank Redemption follows the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker wrongly imprisoned for murder, and his friendship with fellow inmate Red. This tale of hope, resilience, and redemption is bolstered by Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins’ heartfelt performances. While initially overlooked at the box office, it has since gained status as one of the most beloved films of all time.

6. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)

Director: George Lucas
The film that launched a cultural phenomenon, Star Wars brought audiences into a galaxy far, far away. The original trilogy opener follows young Luke Skywalker as he joins the Rebel Alliance to fight the evil Galactic Empire. With its groundbreaking special effects and legendary score by John Williams, Star Wars forever changed the landscape of sci-fi and became a cornerstone of pop culture.

7. Casablanca (1942)

Director: Michael Curtiz
A tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience during WWII, Casablanca follows Rick Blaine, a jaded American expatriate, and his ex-lover Ilsa as they reunite under tense circumstances. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman’s chemistry, along with the unforgettable line, “Here’s looking at you, kid,” make this film an enduring classic. Casablanca blends romance, intrigue, and suspense in a way few films have matched.

8. The Dark Knight (2008)

Director: Christopher Nolan
With its gritty realism and psychological depth, The Dark Knight elevated the superhero genre. Christian Bale returns as Batman, facing off against Heath Ledger’s unforgettable Joker, whose anarchic motives pose an existential threat to Gotham City. Ledger’s chilling performance earned him a posthumous Oscar, and Nolan’s direction solidified The Dark Knight as a landmark in modern cinema.

9. Gone with the Wind (1939)

Director: Victor Fleming
Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, Gone with the Wind tells the tumultuous story of Southern belle Scarlett O’Hara and her struggles with love, loss, and resilience. Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable deliver memorable performances in this sweeping epic. Though controversial for its portrayal of historical events, Gone with the Wind is considered one of the grandest achievements in classic Hollywood.

10. Forrest Gump (1994)

Director: Robert Zemeckis
This charming tale follows Forrest Gump, a man of limited intellect but boundless heart, through a series of unlikely adventures that weave him into the fabric of American history. Tom Hanks’ touching portrayal of Forrest made him an iconic character, and the film’s heartwarming, often humorous look at life’s twists and turns has made Forrest Gump a cherished classic.

11. Inception (2010)

Director: Christopher Nolan
This mind-bending thriller delves into the world of shared dreaming and corporate espionage, following a team led by Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) on a mission to implant an idea in someone’s mind. With complex visuals, stunning action sequences, and a twisting narrative, Inception is a thought-provoking film that challenges perceptions of reality and still inspires debate among viewers.

12. 12 Angry Men (1957)

Director: Sidney Lumet
Set almost entirely in a jury room, 12 Angry Men is a powerful exploration of justice, prejudice, and the moral responsibility of a juror. Henry Fonda stars as the sole dissenting juror in a murder trial who gradually persuades the others to reconsider the evidence. With its minimal setting and intense dialogue, 12 Angry Men is a timeless examination of human nature and moral courage.

13. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

Director: Peter Jackson
The final installment of The Lord of the Rings trilogy is an epic conclusion to Frodo’s journey to destroy the One Ring and defeat Sauron. The film’s breathtaking visuals, sweeping score, and intricate storytelling led to it winning 11 Oscars, including Best Picture. A monumental achievement in fantasy cinema, The Return of the King captivated audiences and solidified Tolkien’s world as an essential cinematic universe.

14. Goodfellas (1990)

Director: Martin Scorsese
Based on the true story of mobster Henry Hill, Goodfellas chronicles his life in the crime world from childhood to witness protection. Scorsese’s dynamic direction, paired with standout performances from Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci, captures the allure and brutality of mob life. This gritty, stylish film is a masterclass in storytelling and a staple in the gangster genre.

15. The Matrix (1999)

Director: The Wachowskis
The Matrix introduced audiences to a dystopian world controlled by machines where reality itself is an illusion. This sci-fi classic combined martial arts choreography with revolutionary special effects and thought-provoking themes about technology and reality. Keanu Reeves’ Neo became a cultural icon, and the film’s innovative visuals have influenced countless films and TV shows since.

Each of these films has made a lasting impact, whether through groundbreaking storytelling, innovative techniques, or unforgettable characters. They continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike and are essential viewing for anyone who wants to experience the best of cinema.

A Trip Down Memory Lane

1. Classic Film Revivals:
   • Many theaters now host special screenings of classics from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
   • Look out for anniversaries of iconic films – they often return to theaters for limited runs.
2. Vintage TV Show Marathons:
   • Streaming services like MeTV and Antenna TV specialize in shows from our youth.
   • Host a “TV Party” with friends, featuring shows like “MAS*H,” “Cheers,” or “The Golden Girls.”
3. Music Documentaries:
   • Relive the music of your era through documentaries about iconic artists and bands.
   • Try “The Last Waltz” (The Band), “20 Feet from Stardom,” or “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week.”

Beyond the Screen: Expanding Your Entertainment Horizons

1. Audiobooks:
   • Perfect for multitasking or resting tired eyes.
   • Try memoirs read by the authors themselves, like “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah or “Becoming” by Michelle Obama.
2. Podcasts for Our Generation:
   • “Soundtrack of the 60s” for music lovers
   • “Rethinking” with Brooke Shields discusses aging and reinvention
   • “Dying to Ask” explores life’s big questions with humor and insight
3. Virtual Museum Tours:
   • Explore world-class museums from your living room.
   • The Louvre, the British Museum, and the Smithsonian offer excellent virtual experiences.

Sharing the Experience

One of the great joys of entertainment has always been its ability to bring people together. While the way we consume media may have changed, the communal aspect doesn’t have to be lost. Movie clubs, for instance, can be a wonderful way to stay socially engaged while exploring cinema. Imagine hosting a monthly gathering where you and your friends take turns selecting films from different eras or genres. These events can spark lively discussions, rekindle old memories, and even forge new friendships.

Remember, entertainment should bring joy, not stress. It’s okay to stick with what you love, but don’t be afraid to explore new options too. The world of movies and entertainment is vast and varied – there’s always something new to discover, no matter your age. So grab some popcorn, settle into your favorite chair, and let the show begin!

The British professional boxer Tyson Fury, sold the NFT featuring himself Lineal by Tyson Fury for nearly US$1 million at auction. Many other players and teams are following suit. 

“Lineal by Tyson Fury” $244,000 BID RECEIVED

“Lineal by Tyson Fury” bidding at $244,000 USDT, one of the highest bidding #NFTs in sporting history

Collectibles available in Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze

Payment: BNB/USDT

Link: https://t.co/nJk8FKOQKp pic.twitter.com/M506UnmS4M

— HoDooi.com (@hodooicom) July 15, 2021

Recently, JASMY officially signed a cooperation agreement with Sagan Tosu, the top club of the Japanese Football League. JASMY has also become the official sponsor of the football club. Sagan Tosu currently ranks fourth in Japan and is also the first team in Japan that has not been relegated.

Additionally, JASMY will use the original blockchain technology to help the Sagan Tosu team to issue the world’s first NFT fan token in the field of football. The issuance of fan tokens will be a creative fusion of JASMY blockchain technology and the IP owned by the football team.

The applications of blockchain technology are quickly reaching different fields, not only sports.

Also, musicians are looking at NFT with interest as a way to change how the music industry operates. It would reduce the huge cut of earnings that goes to agents, lawyers, and studio executives, shifting the power back to the artists and increasing their earnings. 

The same Jasmy uses blockchain as a way to secure user data, giving people the power to sell their personal preferences if they want to, and protect companies from information leakage.

In a world of constant change, being flexible and innovative is rewarding the trendsetters. Blockchain technology is now the future and NFT is a new form of memorabilia with several potential applications as it is unique, safely stored and cannot be forged.

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Leanne is best known for her roles in Casualty, Ripper Street, Cold Feet, Line of Duty, Young Wallander, Carnival Row and Tin Star and has been part of the fighting force in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens. Leanne has also made many stage appearances here in Liverpool at the Playhouse and Everyman Theatres.

We are so pleased Leanne has chosen our charity; her profile and support will allow us to raise awareness of the vital mental health and emotional wellbeing services that we deliver here in Liverpool; to children, young people and families. Having conversations and speaking openly about our mental health is so important and having Leanne on-board here at YPAS to help reduce the stigma of mental health and raise our profile is a fantastic opportunity for us and our city of Liverpool.

Leanne Best: “As a young teenager I watched my friends’ access the services provided at YPAS and witnessed the transformative effect that the support had on their lives then and into adulthood. It is my absolute honour and privilege to be asked to be an ambassador for YPAS… an organisation that embodies so much of what I believe. That it is our duty and mission to empower our young people to be their most autonomous authentic creative selves in order to navigate the world… and the joy, commitment and passion with which YPAS does that is beyond inspiring. I’m so excited to be part of the gang and in the words of the late great Sir Ken Robinson ‘The gardener does not make a plant grow, the job of a gardener is to create optimal conditions’. I feel very lucky to be asked to be a part of this journey with the young people of YPAS and the people invested in helping them pave their own way”

Last year (2020) YPAS supported over 7,200 children, young people, parents and families with their mental health and emotional wellbeing and delivered over 23,400 sessions of therapy and support. We feel really privileged to have Leanne supporting our work and recognising the significant impact that mental health services have on our children young people and families.

Monique Collier, CEO YPAS:
“As the world begins to re-open to what we can only describe as our ‘new normal’; we are so excited to be facing our future with the inclusion of Leanne. We envisage great opportunities; not just for the charity but for the children, young people and families of our city; something that I am really keen to begin.”

The diva’s effortless vocal performances are interspersed with a razor-sharp wit which brings audiences to their feet time and time again, whistling for more at every show. Broadway Baby wrote: “La Voix’s patter is lightning fast and stomach-punchingly funny.”La Voix’s unique act has not only caught the imagination of theatre goers and fellow performers across the globe, but when the feisty, flame-haired phenomenon is not giving it out on her hilarious talk show on BBC Radio Three Counties, she’s
busy performing for the royal, rich and the famous. She has twice entertained Princes William and Harry at their New Year’s Eve party, and also topped the bill at Sir Ian McKellan’s 80th birthday bash when she was lavishly commended by the knight of the realm who said: “La Voix’s impersonations are surpassed only by her own cheekily entertaining personality. A genuine one-off!”

This will be the hottest ticket in town and spoken about for months to come, so grab your ticket now to see The UK’s Funniest Red Head in action 

A new book by Sarah Sheridan, The Convent keeps the reader glued from start to finish.

Synopsis of “The Convent’:

Faced with darkness, could you find the light?

An innocent victim. A wicked crime. A killer on the loose.

Meet Sister Veronica Angelica, a secret crime fiction writer and lover of custard cream biscuits.

When she discovers a dead man in the grounds of the Catholic Youth Hostel, a building next door to her Convent, she can see he’s been brutally murdered.

What she doesn’t know, is that Jamie had a secret he’d been about to confess.

Being forbidden by the Cardinal to contact the police, the nuns at The Convent of the Christian Heart are instructed to contain news of the murder.

As Sister Veronica tries to uncover the truth, another murder takes place, plunging her deeper into the mystery.

But when her investigation raises more questions than answers, will Sister Veronica be able to solve the case without attracting the killer’s attention?

Reviews have been extremely positive.

An Amazon review, Lynne wrote: “What a delightful read, it had everything from humour to terror for poor Sister Veronica. She certainly had her work cut out trying to solve the crime of Jamie but she did it. So happy for mellissa finally finding love. The worst part was the things that happened inside the churches, the corruption and upsetting the way some priests and nuns treat young men and women so sad as they had no where to turn.”

Susan Pengelly, also an Amazon buyer, wrote: “Having experienced the vagaries of an organised religion this story twanged a nerve or two and sent me to research the hidden children of priests and nuns I had never heard of before. This is a great book, do read it, you will enjoy the story and it will leave you stirred.”

Mrs P Rodgers wrote: “It’s the first time in a long time that I’ve read a book that has kept my attention as much as this did. Not just the story, but the corruption that it drew attention to. Very thought provoking.”

‘The Convent’, from Bloodhound Books, is available now: https://amzn.to/3wvXDZo