Schlaumeier and the Magic Lamp: Berlinale Opener “The Light” Falls Short
The opening film of the 75th Berlinale, The Light, follows a Berlin family and their Syrian housekeeper on a journey of self-discovery. Director Tom Tykwer pushes his fascination with the esoteric to the limit—only to stumble spectacularly.
Everything happens at once, and everything is somehow interconnected. This is made clear right from the start of Tykwer’s The Light, which was chosen to open this year’s Berlinale. The film’s opening montage, accompanied by a softly advancing string score, introduces the affluent but emotionally detached Engels family, living in a spacious period apartment in central Berlin. Though they reside under the same roof, they largely exist in isolation from one another. Tykwer leans heavily into clichés as he sketches out their parallel lives.
VR Loneliness and Party Affection
Mother Milena (Nicolette Krebitz) frequently flies to Kenya, where she is overseeing the construction of a theatre funded by ministry grants. Even when she is in Berlin, she remains absorbed in her phone, her mind elsewhere. Father Tim (Lars Eidinger) spends his days sprawled on a leather sofa in his advertising agency, endlessly explaining the world to those around him in a classic display of “mansplaining.” Their 17-year-old daughter Frieda (Elke Biesendorfer) drifts through Berlin’s nightlife in a haze, entangled in drug-fuelled embraces with her friends, while only expressing disdain for her parents. Meanwhile, her twin brother Jon (Julius Gause) barricades himself in his chaotic room, immersing himself in a complex virtual reality game.
Amid this dysfunction, the family’s Polish housekeeper suffers a fatal heart attack, lying unnoticed in the kitchen for hours before her self-absorbed employers finally discover her body. Enter Farrah (Tara Al-Deen), a Syrian refugee who lives in a shared apartment with other displaced women and carries a mysterious past. She eventually becomes the Engels’ new housekeeper, introducing an unusual therapy involving a flickering “magic lamp,” which appears to give the film its title. When directed at the face with closed eyes, this strobe-like light is said to induce altered states of consciousness.
Eidinger Strips Down
It rains. And rains. And rains. Tim repeatedly enters the flat, dripping wet in a sodden rain poncho, leaving a trail of water in his wake. At other times, he strips completely naked upon arrival and spends the rest of the evening parading around the apartment unclothed. Anyone who previously dismissed the stereotype of Lars Eidinger’s penchant for on-screen nudity will find no counterarguments here. But why all the rain? The answer, revealed at the film’s end, is a painfully sentimental and politically fashionable twist, best left undisclosed.
“Schlaumeier,” Tim remarks to Farrah at one point, when she explains the dynamics of his family to him. He means it kindly, though with a hint of condescension. Yet, Farrah soon becomes a wise confidante to all four family members. Each, in their own way, hopes for a fundamental change in their lives and relationships. They all seek self-discovery, and each eventually confides their deepest secrets to Farrah—or only comes to realise them through their interactions with her.
Farrah Has Her Own Agenda
However, Farrah has an agenda of her own—though revealing it would be a spoiler, despite the fact that the film’s direction soon becomes apparent. Suffice it to say, her magic lamp plays a pivotal role in guiding the family toward a different state of being.
It is not just Farrah who plays the role of the all-knowing “Schlaumeier”—director and screenwriter Tykwer does the same, weaving intricate connections between all elements of the story. Yet, in doing so, he completely overreaches. This applies not just to the film’s philosophical scope, but also its sheer length: The Light runs for a staggering 162 minutes.
The Loss of Playfulness
Tykwer has always had a leaning towards the esoteric. His breakout film, Run Lola Run, which followed Franka Potente’s character through three variations of events in an attempt to save her boyfriend, was ultimately an experiment in parallel realities. Similarly, Cloud Atlas, co-directed with the Wachowskis, spanned multiple centuries to explore mystical connections between lives.
However, where Tykwer’s earlier films combined weighty themes with an element of playful curiosity, The Light lacks this quality. Instead, it drifts into self-indulgent sentimentality. Overly enamoured with its own ideas and references, Tykwer’s latest opus becomes a grand, self-referential spectacle—one that ultimately loses its way.
Jeremy Clarkson and Lisa Hogan: The Age Gap Love Story Behind Clarkson’s Farm
As the third season of Clarkson’s Farm premieres on Amazon Prime Video, viewers once again get an intimate look at the rural adventures of Jeremy Clarkson and his partner, Lisa Hogan, at Diddly Squat Farm. Their relationship has sparked curiosity among fans, particularly regarding the age gap between them.
Lisa Hogan, an Irish former model and actress from Dublin, is currently 50 years old. She attended Alexandra College in Milltown and has built a diverse career, working as a model, artist, and actress. In 1997, she was selected by actor John Cleese to feature in the comedy film Fierce Creatures, marking a significant moment in her career.
Jeremy Clarkson, on the other hand, was born in April 1960 in Doncaster, making him 64 years old. Before becoming a household name, he helped his parents sell Paddington Bear toys—a venture that eventually led to their financial success. His rise to fame as a journalist and television presenter is well documented, with his tenure on Top Gear cementing his reputation as one of Britain’s most recognisable media personalities.
Despite a 14-year age difference, Jeremy and Lisa’s relationship has gone from strength to strength since they were introduced by mutual friends at a party in 2017. While they come from different backgrounds, their shared experiences at Diddly Squat Farm have brought them closer, navigating both the rewards and difficulties of rural life together.
The upcoming season of Clarkson’s Farm sees Lisa facing new hurdles as she takes charge of the farm shop. Land agent Charlie Ireland issues a stark warning about potential legal consequences should she continue selling products from outside a 16-mile radius. The regulation presents a significant challenge to the farm’s business model, and Lisa finds herself at a crossroads.
In a candid admission ahead of the new season, Lisa revealed she was prepared to take a legal risk for the team. “I was willing to take one for the team, literally,” she stated. “You pay so much in business rates and taxes, and then the same system uses that money to fight against you—it doesn’t make sense.”
Despite the obstacles, Lisa remains pragmatic about the situation, acknowledging an unintended benefit from the strict local sourcing rule. “It seems like an odd approach,” she remarked. “But in a way, the council has actually done me a favour. If it weren’t for their restrictions, I wouldn’t have discovered half of my suppliers. I had to dig deep to find businesses within 16 miles, and that’s been a silver lining. But I do think they sometimes overreact.”
With Clarkson’s Farm returning to screens, fans can expect more drama, humour, and insight into the trials and triumphs of life on Diddly Squat Farm. As Jeremy and Lisa continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of farming regulations and business challenges, their partnership remains a central part of the show’s charm.
Robert De Niro Takes on Dual Roles in New Mafia Film The Alto Knights
Hollywood legend Robert De Niro returns to the silver screen in The Alto Knights, portraying two iconic and rival Mafia bosses, Frank Costello and Vito Genovese. Once close friends, their relationship unravels into a ruthless power struggle fueled by jealousy and betrayal, shaking not only New York’s criminal underworld but also the entire nation.
The film is directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson (Rain Man) and penned by Mafia genre veteran Nicholas Pileggi (Goodfellas), promising a gripping narrative with a deep dive into the complexities of loyalty, power, and retribution.
Joining De Niro in the cast are Debra Messing (Will & Grace), Cosmo Jarvis (Shōgun), and Kathrine Narducci (The Irishman), adding depth and talent to the star-studded ensemble.
The Alto Knights is set to premiere in German cinemas on March 20, 2025, with its U.S. release following a day later on March 21. Fans of the Mafia film genre and De Niro’s iconic performances can expect a dramatic, action-packed experience that captures the tension and turmoil of a bygone era.
Tulsa King Season 2: Release Date and How to Watch for Free
Sylvester Stallone is back as Dwight “The General” Manfredi in the much-anticipated second season of Tulsa King. This crime drama, streaming on Paramount+ later this week, sees the legendary actor reprising his role as a Mafia capo from New York’s Invernizzi crime family who finds himself navigating unfamiliar territory after a 25-year prison sentence.
A New Empire in Tulsa
The series follows Dwight’s journey after being exiled by his boss to Tulsa, Oklahoma—a place far removed from the criminal underworld he once knew. Tasked with establishing operations in this foreign environment, Dwight soon realises his mob family may not have his best interests at heart. Determined to build his own empire, he assembles a ragtag crew of unlikely allies, creating a new criminal operation from scratch.
Season two picks up with Dwight and his team continuing to expand and protect their growing empire. However, their success attracts new adversaries. With threats from the Kansas City mob and a formidable local businessman, Dwight faces mounting pressure to protect his crew and family while juggling the complexities of his rising empire.
Record-Breaking Success
The first season of Tulsa King was a major hit for Paramount+, drawing in 3.7 million viewers for its premiere episode. The show also drove a record-breaking number of new subscriptions to the platform, solidifying its status as one of Paramount’s standout productions.
The Creative Minds Behind the Series
Created by Taylor Sheridan, the mastermind behind the widely acclaimed Yellowstone, Tulsa King brings together a dynamic cast and sharp storytelling. Stallone not only stars in the series but has also co-written several episodes of the new season, marking his first leading role in a television series.
The cast includes Annabella Sciorra, Tatiana Zappardino, Andrea Savage, Martin Starr, Max Casella, Domenick Lombardozzi, Vincent Piazza, Jay Will, Garrett Hedlund, and Dana Delany. Together, they bring a mix of talent that adds depth and intrigue to the series.
How to Watch Season 2
Fans eager to dive back into Dwight’s world can catch the new season exclusively on Paramount+. While subscription fees apply, the streaming service often offers free trial periods, allowing new users to enjoy the latest episodes without immediate cost.
With its gripping storyline, standout performances, and escalating tension, season two of Tulsa King promises to deliver more of the action and drama that made the first season a hit. Don’t miss the return of this compelling crime saga.
Love Island Fans Outraged as 2024 Winners Spark ‘Fix’ Claims
After seven weeks of dramatic twists, emotional recouplings, and surprising eliminations, Love Island crowned its 2024 champions in a gripping finale aired on Monday, July 26. The series, which has kept fans glued to their screens, concluded with Josh and Mimii taking home the title, leaving a mixed reaction among the show’s loyal audience.
A Tense Finale
In the highly anticipated final episode, presenter Maya Jama narrowed the field to the last two couples: Josh and Mimii, and Ciaran and Nicole. As suspense filled the air, Jama announced Josh and Mimii as the winners, sparking joy for the pair and their fellow contestants. The duo, visibly overwhelmed by the result, celebrated with hugs from the other finalists in an emotional conclusion to the season.
However, the reaction among fans was far from unanimous. Social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, was flooded with comments from viewers expressing frustration over the outcome. Many accused the show of being “rigged,” claiming the final result did not reflect the public’s preference. The backlash underscored the deep investment fans have in the series and its outcome.
Fans Look Ahead Despite Controversy
Although the finale has divided opinion, the end of the season doesn’t mean Love Island fans will have to wait long for more drama. ITV2 has announced that Love Island: All Stars will return in January 2025, giving fans just six months to prepare for the next chapter.
The upcoming All Stars season promises to bring back some of the most memorable contestants from the show’s eleven-series history. ITV2 teased the return of the hit spin-off earlier this year, stating: “Offering some of the show’s most iconic singletons another chance at love, the series will return to its all-star home in South Africa.”
Mike Spencer, Creative Director at Lifted Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the show’s continued evolution: “Celebrating a decade of Love Island with another all-star class of Islanders feels like the perfect way to honour the legacy of the nation’s favourite dating show. We’re looking forward to delivering another vintage year of romance, drama, and unforgettable moments.”
A Look Back at All Stars
The inaugural season of Love Island: All Stars, which aired earlier this year, saw Molly Smith and Tom Clare crowned as its champions. The success of the spin-off series has only heightened expectations for its return in January.
While fans may still be reeling from the 2024 finale, the announcement of All Stars provides a glimmer of excitement for what’s to come. As Love Island prepares to celebrate its tenth anniversary, its ability to captivate and stir emotions remains as strong as ever.
Monty Don Reflects on a Heartfelt Moment from His Past
Monty Don, the beloved 69-year-old presenter of BBC Gardeners’ World, recently opened up about a poignant memory from his younger years. He described a deeply emotional moment shared with his wife, Sarah, as they drove past a field of barley, which evoked a powerful sense of nostalgia.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Monty recalled a childhood experience that left a lasting impression. At just seven years old, he returned home from boarding school to discover that the family garden had “burst into flower.” He likened the sensation to missing Christmas—a bittersweet realization, though not necessarily a sense of loss.
Years later, during his twenties, a simple drive through the countryside reignited this childhood memory. Reflecting on the moment, Monty shared: “Sarah and I were driving out of London towards Kent, passing a field full of barley. Barley has a unique way of rippling in the wind, unlike wheat, which tends to rustle. That subtle difference transported me back to my childhood in Hampshire.”
He continued: “The sight triggered an intense homesickness. My whole childhood felt tied to the ripple of barley in the fields. Realizing that this idyllic period, the good parts of it, was forever gone was utterly heartbreaking.”
Monty went on to reflect on the contrasting emotions tied to different aspects of his upbringing. While the barley fields symbolized a cherished connection to his home, he had less fond memories of his boarding school years. He described the landscape around the school as dominated by “dark, dull, horrible” rhododendrons, pines, and heathers—plants he associated with unpleasant times. In stark contrast, his home was adorned with beautiful beeches and fragrant lilacs, which he still remembers fondly.
As he looked back, Monty candidly acknowledged that his teenage years were far from idyllic. Speaking to the Mirror, he admitted that flowers and gardening were not part of his adolescence. Instead, he described those years as filled with “sex, drugs, and rock and roll.” He even revealed that he was expelled from several schools during this rebellious period of his life.
This blend of heartfelt nostalgia and candid honesty offers a glimpse into the life of the much-loved gardening expert, whose passion for nature seems rooted in both the highs and lows of his formative years.
Eden Taylor-Draper: The Life and Heartbreak of Emmerdale’s Belle Dingle Star
Eden Taylor-Draper has become a household name thanks to her portrayal of Belle Dingle on the long-running British soap opera Emmerdale. Known for her compelling performances, Eden has been a staple of the show for nearly two decades, but her life off-screen reveals an inspiring story of resilience, family, and dedication.
A Young Talent’s Rise to Fame
Born in Selby, Yorkshire, in 1997, Eden joined the cast of Emmerdale in 2005 when she was just eight years old. Over the years, her character Belle Dingle has been at the centre of numerous dramatic storylines, with her most recent arc delving into the harrowing topic of domestic abuse. Belle’s turbulent relationship with her ex-husband, Tom King, left her struggling to find solace and someone to confide in.
Eden’s portrayal of these difficult moments has earned her widespread recognition. At 26, she is now an accomplished actress with several accolades, including the prestigious Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actor or Actress Award at the British Soap Awards.
Behind the Scenes: A Strong Family Bond
While Eden captivates audiences on-screen, her personal life is equally compelling. Her family has always been a significant part of her journey, particularly her relationship with her younger sister Francesca. When Eden was around 20 years old, Francesca was diagnosed with cancer—a life-changing event for the entire family.
Eden became a steadfast pillar of support during her sister’s treatment. She made it a priority to visit Francesca weekly, often staying overnight at the hospital to ensure her sister felt comforted and cared for. Reflecting on those challenging times, Eden shared heartwarming memories:
“I stayed over a few times a week. Chessie had her bed, and I had a little bed next to her. Mornings would be a snuggle, a cup of tea, and re-runs of Come Dine with Me. I tried to keep Chess as cosy as possible. We’d always say ‘love you’ before bed and remind each other that everything would be OK.”
This unwavering dedication exemplifies the strong bond Eden shares with her family. Francesca, affectionately known as “Chessie,” has since made remarkable progress in her recovery and is reportedly doing very well.
A Role Model for Advocacy
The experience of supporting Francesca through her battle with cancer has shaped Eden’s perspective on life and her role as an advocate. She now serves as an ambassador for the Teenage Cancer Trust, using her platform to raise awareness and provide hope to young people facing similar challenges.
Her advocacy work reflects her compassion and desire to make a positive impact beyond the world of acting. Speaking about her family’s strength, Eden said, “We’ve got such a strong family. When our mum puts her mind to something, she always sees it through. She told Chessie, ‘You are getting better, and that’s it. We’re going to get through it.’”
A Close-Knit Family Life
Eden is the eldest of four siblings. Alongside Francesca, she has three younger siblings—Sebastian, Pollyanna, and Posy—who form part of her tight-knit family. Her parents, Nicola and Richard, have also played a significant role in fostering the strong family values that Eden often speaks about.
Despite the challenges her family has faced, their unity and love have remained constant. It’s clear that Eden draws strength and inspiration from her family’s resilience, which has undoubtedly influenced her growth as both an actress and an individual.
Balancing Fame and Personal Growth
As Eden continues to thrive in her acting career, she remains grounded by her personal experiences and the support of her loved ones. Her ability to balance the demands of a high-profile role on Emmerdale with her advocacy and dedication to her family serves as a testament to her character and determination.
Eden Taylor-Draper is not just a star on-screen but also an inspiring figure off-screen, proving that strength and compassion can shine even in the face of life’s toughest challenges
Ekin-Su Reflects on Her Time on Celebrity Big Brother and Personal Growth
Ekin-Su Culculoglu, a former contestant on Celebrity Big Brother, has candidly shared her thoughts about her time on the show and the personal challenges she faced during that period.
The ITV2 reality series, which concluded earlier this year with David Potts emerging as the winner, frequently placed Ekin-Su in the spotlight due to her outspoken remarks and fiery interactions with other housemates. While her stint on the show brought significant attention, Ekin-Su now reflects on how her emotional state influenced her behavior during filming.
In a recent interview on Lorraine, the Love Island alum opened up about her mixed feelings toward the experience. She admitted that, in hindsight, it was not the right moment for her to join the show, as she was in the midst of personal healing. Reflecting on her mindset at the time, she shared, “Celebrity Big Brother is a fantastic show, and I don’t regret participating. But I now realise it wasn’t the best time for me. I was healing from past challenges and wasn’t fully healed. That influenced how I came across.”
Ekin-Su described feeling defensive during her time in the house, a trait she now acknowledges was a response to her internal struggles. She elaborated, “Looking back, I hardly recognise myself. I was overly defensive, often referencing Love Island and trying to protect myself in conversations. That’s not who I am now. I’ve taken accountability for my actions and words. I’ve learned to forgive, to grow, and to move forward. That chapter is behind me, and I hold no ill feelings toward anyone. I genuinely wish everyone involved the very best.”
One of the most talked-about moments from the series was Ekin-Su’s decision not to attend the live finale. Addressing this, she explained it was a conscious choice, driven by her need to establish personal boundaries. She has since described this decision as an important step in her journey toward self-awareness and prioritising her well-being.
Despite the controversy surrounding her appearance, Ekin-Su remains reflective and optimistic about the future. Her insights serve as a reminder of the importance of timing, emotional readiness, and self-forgiveness when taking on challenges in the public eye.