Walt Disney World has rolled out a variety of fresh and revitalized experiences for guests, inviting CGM to witness them up close during its Play ’n Preview event for international press. We were granted an early glimpse at the sights, sounds, thrills, and tastes that visitors can now incorporate into their travel itineraries.

This year, entertainment at Walt Disney World has undergone a major update, featuring a new nighttime parade, two new shows, and a sneak peek at forthcoming holiday attractions. The first event we attended at Magic Kingdom was Starlight: Dream the Night Away. This parade builds upon the legacy of beloved events like SpectroMagic and the Main Street Electrical Parade, employing enhanced lighting technology and showcasing both new and iconic Disney characters.

From singing alongside Miguel and dancing with Mirabel to joining Mickey and the gang on Whimsy, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” brings cherished characters to life beneath the twinkling stars. The all-new nighttime parade has its premiere on July 20 at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.

Starlight: Dream the Night Away captivates with exquisitely designed floats illuminated by bright, colorful lights that are synchronized into a stunning animated choreography. Backlit by the darkened Magic Kingdom, the parade expertly combines contemporary favorites with the enduring classics that have defined Walt Disney World. The visual and auditory experience makes it a perfect conclusion to an evening at the park.

“Starlight: Dream the Night Away captivates with exquisitely designed floats illuminated by bright, colorful lights that are synchronized into a stunning animated choreography.”

If I were to analyze Starlight: Dream the Night Away critically, I would mention that the filler entertainment between the floats fell short of the visual splendor of the floats themselves. This oversight made the parade feel somewhat emptier than it genuinely was, at least from our perspective at the Main Street Train Station. (Although it may seem like a humblebrag, this is important context.) Smaller floats or elements, such as the fish in SpectroMagic, would help sustain the brilliance throughout the parade.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where long-lasting stage productions like Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage have been popular for years, two brand new shows have launched: The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure and Villains: Unfairly Ever After. Each one takes a unique approach to staging, merging live performances with animation.

Dive into the ocean with “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” a new live stage show scheduled to premiere on May 27, 2025, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Resort. (Steven A. Diaz, photographer)

The stage for The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure is inspired by the multiplane camera, the layered animation technique that Walt Disney Animation Studios refined and popularized with classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The multiplane effect, similar to the show’s stage setup, produces depth by separating animation layers for photography.

Onstage, the multiplane aesthetic manifests as multiple levels of interaction: a rear screen for animated backdrops, two movable side screens featuring animated characters, a performance area for live actors and puppeteers with practical set pieces, and a front screen for additional animated aspects. It’s a brilliantly orchestrated stage, and for those acquainted with its origins, the experience reaches new heights.

The production itself is energetic and enjoyable, highlighting all the popular songs from The Little Mermaid, along with numbers not featured in previous stage versions. The excitement in the theater escalates as the show transitions from Under the Sea to Kiss the Girl, creating an electrifying ambiance. Effects that extend into the audience further heighten immersion in the show’s atmosphere.

Nestled in the shadows of Sunset Boulevard, within Sunset Showcase, the all-new stage show “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” is set to debut on May 27, 2025, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Resort. (Steven A. Diaz, photographer)

One feature likely to ignite discussion is the redesign of certain characters to align their animated appearance with that of the puppets, with Ursula being the most prominent example. The goal is to maintain uniformity throughout the production, but this also creates a contrast with characters that appear solely in animated form. Those characters, while depicted in 3D rather than 2D, keep their recognizable look from the film. Motion-capture technology provides them with natural, expressive performances.

“Villains: Unfairly Ever After presents a stage design as unique as its premise, with villains stepping through frames in some of the smoothest, most vibrant animation you will find in a stage performance.”

Villains: Unfairly Ever After introduces a stage design as distinctive as its concept. Envision a world where the Magic Mirror from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is summoned by each Disney villain, each claiming to be the most misunderstood. Three in particular—Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent—emerge from the mirror to plead their cases directly to the crowd.

There’s a subtle transformation occurring in our perceptions of money — and it isn’t taking place on Wall Street. It’s emerging in living rooms, cafes, co-working spaces, and food trucks. Side hustles have evolved from mere backup plans to primary income streams for countless individuals. Whether through freelancing, reselling, or sharing costs with roommates, contemporary life requires payment solutions that are as adaptable and fast-paced as their users.

This is why prepaid digital credit is experiencing a surge in popularity. For example, individuals looking to expedite peer-to-peer transactions or fund their Venmo accounts without linking a bank account can purchase Venmo gift card options online and maintain full control over their spending. It’s a contemporary solution designed for the interconnected, always-active lifestyles of today.

Why Conventional Banking Seems Outdated

The Issue with “One Size Fits All”

Traditional financial systems were created for a different era—one characterized by stable incomes, cash-split rents, and the absence of subscriptions. Fast forward to 2025, and the scenario has dramatically evolved:

– Creators manage earnings from various platforms
– Shared transport and communal living are commonplace
– Individuals budget weekly instead of monthly

In this context, adaptable tools like digital wallets and prepaid cards are addressing challenges that traditional accounts were not equipped to solve. They provide flexibility without compromising reliability—an essential equilibrium for those leading a hustle-oriented lifestyle.

The Emergence of Wallet-Ready Gift Cards

The appeal of a Venmo gift card lies in its straightforwardness. Load the funds, link it to your account, and spend at your leisure. There’s no hidden fine print or interest to be wary of, and no requirement to disclose personal banking information for minor, daily transactions.

This type of financial independence is particularly beneficial for young adults, students, and anyone managing multiple income sources. Whether it’s compensating your podcast editor or reimbursing your friend for lunch, digital top-ups allow you to handle money according to your preferences.

Technology That Empowers You

Increased Control, Reduced Complexity

When everything, from work to social engagements, resides on your smartphone, so should your payment methods. The greatest advantage? You don’t need a high-limit credit card or an intricate banking application to remain connected. Instead, prepaid cards maintain a refreshing simplicity.

They provide a fixed budget, no long-term commitment, and complete visibility. For many users, that distinguishes between anxiety and assurance in their spending habits. Rather than pursuing rewards or navigating fees, they prioritize clarity.

It’s evident that the shift towards agile, user-friendly payment options is not merely a technological trend—it’s an enhancement to one’s lifestyle. Individuals seek to transfer money, manage expenses, and make purchases seamlessly. And they are discovering innovative methods to achieve just that.

When the initial *Dying Light* debuted in 2015, I was captivated from the very first leap between rooftops. The combination of parkour and panic was unparalleled at that time. Movement had substance, combat felt intense, and the environment clamored to be discovered, even while it was actively attempting to eliminate you. Years later, I revisited it with a group of friends, traversing the campaign co-op from beginning to end, and once again found myself enamored with it. That game remains impactful. The way it melds tension and momentum, continually compelling you to think swiftly.

Thus, when I learned that *Dying Light: The Beast* was reverting to its horror origins, my curiosity was piqued. I was prepared. The entire setup feels like a significant change: a forest in place of a city, a calculated antagonist rather than a brute, and the long-anticipated comeback of a character I’d thought was forever lost. Kyle Crane is not just back; he’s damaged, furious, and perhaps more perilous than the creatures surrounding him.

To explore how Techland is advancing a franchise that helped reshape the zombie genre, CGM engaged Franchise Director Tymon Smektała in a discussion about Castor Woods, the evolving tone of the series, and the experience of constructing something new atop the foundation of something cherished.

**Let’s discuss Castor Woods. It represents a significant departure from the dense urban landscapes we’ve encountered previously. What inspired the choice of the tranquil, tourist-town-turned-nightmare concept?**

**Tymon Smektała:** After developing city-focused sandboxes in two consecutive games, we were eager to tackle something different. We made the decision to delve into an environment where nature, rather than concrete, dictates the rules, primarily to challenge ourselves a bit and expand the limits of what we believed worked in a *Dying Light* game.

Castor Woods initially existed as a picture-perfect resort—a destination for hikers, travelers, and… Instagram-worthy views. Following the outbreak, that picturesque setting became frozen in time, leaving chalets overtaken by ivy and hiking trail signs partially buried in dirt. Artistically, it allowed us to juxtapose beauty with decay, and from a gameplay perspective, it compelled us to reassess traversal and how our horrors and scares could operate when trees substituted for alleyways.

**Kyle Crane returns in *Dying Light: The Beast*, which is monumental for fans of the first game like myself. What made this the opportune moment to bring him back, and how does he differ from the character we knew previously?**

**Tymon Smektała:** Players have continuously wondered “what truly happened to Crane?” since *Dying Light: The Following*, and I grew weary of answering it for a decade, haha. In all seriousness, the franchise’s 10-year anniversary felt like the ideal occasion to resolve that once and for all. However, don’t anticipate Kyle to be the upbeat, wise-cracking badass mercenary he used to be. Years of captivity and experimentation have left him damaged—both physically and mentally. He’s tougher and more resentful, interacting with others with a significant level of skepticism.

Moreover—due to what Baron did to him—he’s susceptible to frightening outbursts of power that he doesn’t completely control, which present themselves not only in gameplay but also in the narrative. Nonetheless, beneath all that, he remains intact, flesh, bones, and spirit, and as the game progresses, he gradually reconnects with the “old Kyle.” I believe we’ve succeeded in making him a more intriguing, mature character without sacrificing what endeared him to millions of players initially.

**The Baron appears to be a truly villainous character. How did you go about crafting a villain in *Dying Light: The Beast* who could hold his own against the horror established by Rais and Waltz?**

**Tymon Smektała:** Rais exemplified pure brutality, while Waltz embodied blind obsession; the Baron represents intellectual coldness. We posed this question: What does a scientist become when ethics perish before humanity? The Baron is our answer. Even his appearance—expensive coat, golden brooch, impeccably clean surgical gloves—combines luxury, sophistication, and ruthlessness in a way no other adversary we’ve created before has.

He’s the closest to a Bond villain we’ve ever approached. Interestingly, for most of the game, he maintains a hands-off approach—making your life more difficult through his private army and monstrous Chimeras, while keeping a distance, observing your reactions. This intensifies players’ motivation to “finally confront him,” and when that confrontation occurs… well, I’m afraid I can’t provide spoilers.

On the weekend of PAX West 2025, Wizards of the Coast and Magic: The Gathering joined forces to present a dark panel brimming with fresh insights—and adversaries—regarding the eagerly awaited Spider-Man Universes Beyond set. The prior official unveiling, during a panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, provided fans with a glimpse behind the scenes at some of the card illustrations, featuring works from renowned Marvel comic book artists such as John Romita Sr., Steve Ditko, and Todd McFarlane.

The announcement highlighted a dominant group of villains: a coalition of six intent on eliminating Spider-Man for good. While there have been numerous versions of the Sinister Six throughout Marvel’s legacy, the version showcased in Magic: The Gathering emphasizes the original ensemble led by Dr. Octopus, first unveiled in The Amazing Spider-Man Annual No. 1 in 1964. Although Octavius was previously revealed at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, PAX West revealed the remainder of the team.

Before the Magic: The Gathering Spider-Man cards, art, and mechanics were disclosed, the lead design panel took the stage to introduce themselves. The four-member team behind the set expressed their passion for both comics and Magic: The Gathering, evident in card designs that bring New York’s iconic hero to the forefront of MTG.

The group includes Corey Bowen, senior game designer; Jadine Klomparens, principal game designer; and Sarah Wassell, senior art director. Leading the team is Mark Rosewater, Magic: The Gathering’s head designer for over three decades. Together, this blend of creative expertise crafted a set that not only respects Spider-Man’s legacy but also incorporates mechanics that seamlessly integrate into the game.

Magic: The Gathering Spider-Man Universes Beyond Mechanics

A key focus for the design team is that they stressed the card designs and functionalities are directly inspired by how these elements would manifest in Spider-Man comic panels, and that transition has been effortlessly adapted to the MTG tabletop. Both novel and returning features will be prominent throughout the set, with the newly revealed mechanics detailed below.

– Mayhem – This new keyword grants players the ability to cast a card from their graveyard (usually at a cost lower than the original mana value) if the card was discarded during the turn. While the newly introduced Green Goblin provides Mayhem to everything in the graveyard, it notably does not reduce the initial cost.

– Web-slinging – Another new keyword that operates similarly to Ninjutsu but with fewer requirements. Like Mayhem, the Web-slinging cost will almost invariably be less than the initial casting cost due to an added condition for casting. Players can cast a spell for its web-slinging cost by returning a tapped creature they control to their hand.

– Villain archetype – Although this category was previously present on cards like the Sonic the Hedgehog Secret Lair’s Dr. Eggman, it receives considerable expansion with bonuses in MTG Spider-Man Universes Beyond.

– Enchantment Saga – Enchantment Sagas make a comeback in Spider-Man, but this time the design team focused on making them resemble authentic comic panels, and as lore counters accumulate, the comic storyline progresses.

MTG Spider-Man Introduces A New Way To Play, The Pick-Two Draft

In addition to the Spider-Man card mechanics, Wizards of the Coast is unveiling a new gameplay format for Magic: The Gathering: the Pick Two Draft format. Similar to a conventional booster draft, each player commences with three booster packs. The twist is that in Pick Two, players always choose two cards from each booster pack instead of one before passing the pack to the next player.

In the first round, players open their initial booster and, after selecting two cards, pass the pack to their left. Once all cards from the first pack are drafted, players open the second booster, again choosing two at a time, but this time passing to the right. For the third and final pack, cards are passed once more to the left. At the conclusion of the draft, each player will possess the cards required to construct a 40-card deck, supplemented with basic lands.

Magic: The Gathering Spider-Man Bonus Sheet Unveiled!

Specialized treatments have dominated each MTG release, and the “Bonus Sheet” (featuring a selection of reprints from MTG, presented with new artwork) from MTG Final Fantasy showcased artwork drawn from years of illustrations, sketches, and concept art from the franchise’s history. The bonus sheet is marked by an expansion symbol distinct from the main set (the main set has SPM, while the bonus sheet has MAR), and it digs into Spider-Man’s history. Some of the most legendary moments in Spider-Man have been immortalized in Magic: The Gathering reprints, and all disclosed cards at PAX West 2025 can be viewed below.

**Digital Content Production: A Pathway to Fame and Impact**

The realm of digital content production has transformed from a simple pastime into a legitimate career choice, launching creators into the limelight and considerably affecting consumer habits. With traditional advertising waning, content producers have risen as influential sales conduits, revolutionizing marketing tactics and consumer interactions.

**Understanding the Creator Economy**

The creator economy encompasses platforms like YouTube and DeviantArt, where individuals distribute and monetize their creations. Content producers build robust connections with their audiences, gaining trust and authority. This connection enables creators to capitalize on their influence, altering product views and driving sales through reviews and endorsements.

**Evolution of Marketing**

Brands tap into influencer fame, with creators frequently endorsing products organically or through paid partnerships. Authenticity is paramount, as consumers favor real voices over rehearsed advertisements. Creators within specialized niches can effortlessly blend promotions, focusing on targeted audiences. The supremacy of social media over conventional media further enhances the influence of creators on consumer choices.

**Creators’ Transparency and Disclosure**

Unrevealed influencer marketing has led to a wary consumer base. Openness is essential, as misleading tactics can tarnish credibility. Aspiring creators must reveal sponsorships to uphold trust and comply with regulations such as those from the FTC.

**Income Opportunities for New Content Creators**

Creators can generate revenue through various avenues, including selling digital items, providing exclusive content via subscriptions, and utilizing platforms like Patreon. Built-in monetization features and strategic alliances can unlock earning potential. Investing in high-quality equipment and content strategies is crucial for attracting sponsorships and cultivating a dedicated audience.

Content producers have become crucial in influencing consumer choices, with the creator economy presenting profitable prospects. Nevertheless, preserving integrity and partnering with reputable brands is essential for enduring success.

In a realm brimming with countless games at our disposal, the beloved genre can easily become tiresome. Despite an urgent desire for something novel, if the newest offering isn’t a sequel, prequel, remaster, or remake, the excitement rarely reaches its full potential due to apprehension about the unfamiliar. Personally, I favor RPGs and action-RPGs, yet recent entries have failed to captivate me…until this moment.

I had the opportunity to experience a one-hour preview of *The Blood of Dawnwalker* from the new studio, [Rebel Wolves](https://rebel-wolves.com/en) and [Bandai Namco](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/previews/towa-and-the-guardians-of-the-sacred-tree/). I can assert with confidence that they are offering a vibrant approach to the action-RPG genre, and I am both thrilled and anxious to dive in.

During our demonstration, we witnessed what I believe to be the game’s introductory cutscene, followed by a quest line set later in the game when you would have become acquainted with the distinctive gameplay loop and your skills. That opening cutscene had me enthralled. I wish to maintain the element of surprise for other players, but in just those initial moments, I felt fear, sorrow, terror, and fury establishing the ambiance for your journey in *The Blood of Dawnwalker*.

### “Detective skills will play a crucial role in The Blood of Dawnwalker, as investigations will grant you access to new insights, dialogue choices, or the subsequent portion of a quest.”

The game is constructed using Unreal Engine 5, and the cutscene was stunningly crafted. Sweat shimmered on the character’s skin, and you could see their breath in the frosty air. The audio and voice performances were equally impressive. If this level of quality persists, there’s something genuinely extraordinary unfolding here.

What I can reveal about the narrative is that you take on the role of Coen, a man in 14th-century Europe, amidst the creeping Black Plague. The Vrakhiri—essentially their interpretation of a vampire (bringing to mind the Volturi, *[Twilight](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/features/five-blood-sucking-vampire-classics-to-watch-instead-of-twilight/),* perhaps?)—sought to transform you into one of their own. However, you evolved into something different. You are a Dawnwalker—though this revelation occurs later in the story. Fortunately, some narrative elements were left out for me, and I am genuinely curious to piece things together when I get to play the game myself. As a Dawnwalker, you possess the ability to…well, walk at dawn. You can exist in both sunlight and darkness.

This introduces one of several distinctive mechanics in *The Blood of Dawnwalker*. While you can live during both day and night, your array of skills differs for each time period. To demonstrate this, Rebel Wolves guided us through the same quest on two occasions, once by day and once by night, highlighting the pros and cons of each scenario. At night, you gain access to a teleportation ability that facilitates movement more easily than during daylight. The lighter crowds also contribute to this advantage. You battle using sharp claws and powers, although I don’t believe we encountered any combat capabilities in the demo.

By day, you’ll find more people to interact with and investigate, to start with. You wield magic and a sword regarding combat. One unique ability you have as a human is communicating with the deceased to uncover details about past events and advance your investigations. From what I gathered, detective skills will be essential in *The Blood of Dawnwalker*, as delving into mysteries will open pathways to new information, potentially providing fresh dialogue options or guiding you to the next quest segment.

Questing presents another intricate mechanic in *The Blood of Dawnwalker*. Certain quests will necessitate your Vrakhiri form, while others require your human form, particularly based on the time of day. You can undertake quests at any point, with a non-linear structure, allowing for flexibility in your gameplay experience across different playthroughs. This leads to another mechanic: not every quest will be available to you.

As part of a storyline element that I’m not privy to yet, you have a limited timeframe to rescue your family. This is not an RPG that goes on indefinitely. You must decide who to assist and which quests to pursue. Some will push time forward, in days or units, and you have only 30 days. A segment of the story appears to navigate the moral complexities between good and

We used to browse through a handful of cable channels or rent a DVD on weekends. Nowadays, we find ourselves engulfed by a multitude of streaming services, niche content hubs, algorithm-driven recommendations, and never-ending “you might also enjoy” lists. The so-called golden era of content is both a gift and a burden.

By 2025, being a casual viewer often resembles a full-time occupation. There’s a constant pressure to stay current with trending shows, revisit beloved cult classics, and binge-watch every talked-about release to remain informed. Yet, our time — and attention spans — are finite. So how do we navigate through the chaos and determine what truly merits a place on our screens?

Smart Streaming Begins with Wise Spending

With each platform requesting a monthly fee, viewers must become more selective about where they commit not only time but also finances. This is where it’s beneficial to seek out flexible access options like Paramount Plus deals. Instead of tying yourself into another monthly subscription, prepaid options allow you to sample before making a longer-term commitment.

Paramount+ distinguishes itself with its combination of blockbuster films, live sports, nostalgic series, and original content. Whether your preference is for crime dramas or animated classics, there’s plenty to explore — but only if you’re not trapped in another auto-renewal cycle. This is why limited-time or prepaid access is becoming more attractive to curious viewers.

Are Algorithms Beneficial or Detrimental?

Let’s discuss the enigmatic force behind your upcoming binge: the algorithm. It’s intended to streamline your options, yet frequently directs you towards similar genres repeatedly. The outcome is what some critics refer to as “content echo chambers,” where exploration stagnates, leaving viewers feeling fatigued.

In response, some users are bypassing auto-suggestions in favor of assembling their own watchlists or exploring services outside their usual choices. This is also why alternating between platforms — depending on your mood during the month — is often more logical than subscribing to everything simultaneously.

The Surge of Platform Hopping

Increasingly, viewers are alternating between platforms based on seasonal content releases. You might watch one during sports playoffs and then switch to another when a new drama debuts. This adaptability keeps things engaging and helps prevent streaming burnout.

This method is even more effective with one-time payment options or temporary passes — alternatives that do not bind you to long-term commitments yet still offer complete access. It’s a growing trend to enjoy viewing in a smarter way without the financial baggage of multiple subscriptions accumulating.

Content Fatigue Is Genuine

Choice ought to be empowering, but when everything begins to appear uniform — dark reboots, countless true crime documentaries, spin-offs of spin-offs — it can render the so-called golden age of streaming surprisingly bland. Content fatigue arises when you’re inundated by quantity while originality remains lacking.

The true solution might not lie in finding more, but rather in identifying what truly resonates. This could entail a platform featuring curated classics or one that releases episodes weekly instead of dropping complete seasons in one go. It’s less about keeping pace and more about engaging mindfully.

Managing streaming clutter isn’t about amassing subscriptions or watching incessantly. It’s about understanding your preferences — and discovering ways to access that without excessive commitments.

For those intrigued but hesitant, prepaid access tools can facilitate exploration of platforms like Paramount+ without locking in for the long term. Sometimes, a trial is all it takes to see what merits your time.

Because ultimately, entertainment is not about keeping pace — it’s about selecting what aligns with your rhythm, rather than what the algorithm urges you to binge.

From Pyramid Head to misty corridors, the *Return to Silent Hill* teaser hints at a revival for Konami’s horror film franchise.

Directed by Christophe Gans, the *Return to Silent Hill* has released its initial teaser, providing a visual exploration into the narrative of Konami’s *Silent Hill 2*. Scheduled for release in theaters on Jan. 23, 2026, the 40-second clip alludes to James Sunderland’s return to the haunted town prompted by a letter from his deceased beloved, Mary. Rapid, non-verbal edits of Nurses, Lying Figures, and the ominous outline of Pyramid Head establish a bleak, oppressive atmosphere, delivering a preview of the director’s interpretation of *Silent Hill 2* on the silver screen.

Starring Jeremy Irvine (*Paradise Hills*) as James and Hannah Emily Anderson (*Jigsaw*) as Mary, this film presents itself as a fresh installment rather than a straightforward sequel to the 2006 and 2012 films, with no obvious ties to previous entries in the series. With Gans returning to direct, the film seems ready to embrace a psychoanalytic perspective of the material he adapted for cinema in the past.

In a prior statement announcing the project’s distribution deal in the U.S., Gans characterized the adaptation as an homage and a mark of respect: “*Return to Silent Hill* is an adaptation formed from profound admiration for a true masterpiece of a game, Konami’s legendary *Silent Hill 2*. I aspire for fans to relish and find satisfaction in the experience this new film intends to provide,” he expressed, emphasizing his goal to honor the psychological essence of Team Silent’s classic while reinventing its haunting visuals for the film medium.

The official synopsis aligns closely with the game’s essence: James is lured by Mary’s letter into a town engulfed in darkness, where his quest compels a confrontation with monsters and a reality that tests his mental stability. The teaser outlines these moments without words, depending on atmosphere, composition, and texture to convey the narrative.

While it’s uncertain how this new adaptation will fare, what has been revealed thus far indicates it might adhere more closely to the original material than 2012’s *Silent Hill: Revelation*, which received negative feedback from both audiences and critics. For now, players can enjoy the *Silent Hill 2* remake from Bloober Team to keep them engaged until the new film debuts in theaters early next year.

When “The Conjuring: Last Rites” hits theatres in late September, it will signify the conclusion of one of modern cinema’s most impactful supernatural narratives. Since James Wan’s initial film redefined horror in studios back in 2013, the franchise has flourished with sequels and spin-offs, developing into a legacy brand of fear. However, with “Last Rites,” director Michael Chaves bears the duty of concluding the Warrens’ chilling odyssey on a definitive note.

Chaves is quite familiar with the “The Conjuring” universe. He has previously directed “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” and “The Curse of La Llorona,” and he also played a part in “The Nun II.” He has emerged as one of the franchise’s most reliable voices, striking a balance between respect for Wan’s vision and his unique style of atmospheric storytelling. Few directors grasp the tonal essence of “The Conjuring” as thoroughly as Chaves, positioning him as the obvious choice to steer its finale.

We had a conversation with Chaves regarding the process of crafting a finale in a genre known for its endless continuations, the art of respecting horror’s cinematic past, and the genuine encounters that changed his previously skeptical viewpoint on the supernatural.

With “Last Rites” serving as a farewell to “The Conjuring” franchise, what is it like to be in charge of this segment of the series?

Michael Chaves: It’s truly an incredible honor. James posed this question when I came on board. He asked, “What drives your desire to create another Conjuring movie? This will be the third, or maybe even the fourth, depending on how you count it.”

And I replied — he was partly joking, partly sincere — that it’s a fantastic opportunity. It’s a rare occasion to tell a concluding chapter, to provide an ending.

We work in an industry where there’s always the hope that the film you create will lead to a sequel or a franchise or something along those lines. The fact that we have enjoyed this remarkable run, being on this amazing adventure with these characters for 12 years, and having the ability to wrap it up, to narrate a final chapter — it was an opportunity I couldn’t overlook.

Do you envision “The Conjuring” branching out into side narratives or highlighting different characters, given the multitude that exists within the universe? If so, would you wish to be a part of that too?

Michael Chaves: I believe there are always possibilities. This series has performed exceptionally well with spin-offs and exploring villains by giving them their narratives. There are certainly ways to broaden the universe regarding Ed and Lorraine’s story. This is undoubtedly a final chapter. However, I’ve cherished this series. I’ve relished being part of it, and I would be eager to continue. Scheduling permitting, I would love to be involved.

That’s excellent. Now, you indicated you were a fan of the series. How do you feel about the series’ evolution to this point and its current state?

I think it’s been remarkable. It has been a wonderful journey. The initial film was such a fantastic homage to classic cinema — ‘70s horror. I feel like you can see this with “The Nun,” which referenced horror films from the ’50s, and there’s something inherently special about that quality. The third “Annabelle” was somewhat reminiscent of babysitter horror films. It was an excellent way to honor horror and its various forms.

We aimed to capture a bit of both — a tribute to the roots of “The Conjuring,” but also infusing some ’80s influences into “Last Rites.” This series has excelled at celebrating horror.

As we conclude, something lighthearted—After being involved in “The Conjuring” series, has your view on paranormal or supernatural aspects in reality shifted?

Michael Chaves: Certainly. I was raised Catholic and remained a skeptic for a long time. This question often comes up when you’re making these films. However, I never had a decent response because there was nothing… It’s typically, “Did anything eerie happen on set?” And nothing ever did.

Until this film. While we were filming in London, I stayed at a place called the Old Vicarage. It’s roughly a 200-year-old residence where the vicars — English priests — would reside. It was quite nice. My daughter believed she was seeing someone in the house, a shadowy figure. She took a photo on her iPad and showed it to me.

It was a dark, grainy iPad image of the hallway. She asked, “Can you see the person at the end of the hall?” And I replied, “Sweetie

From Aug. 25 to Sept. 7, Intel Gamer Days transcends a mere seasonal tech sale — it’s a festival of how advanced performance converges with immersive gaming. Central to every highlighted system on this list is Intel, the reliable engine driving rapid frame rates, efficient multitasking, AI-boosted workflows and seamless content creation. Whether you’re entering competitive environments, constructing your ideal streaming setup or managing tasks on the go, Intel’s hybrid processing architecture and energy-efficient chips are designed to tackle it all.

This year’s Intel Gamer Days selection presents a diverse array of gaming devices, from elegant laptops to high-powered desktops — all featuring Intel’s distinctive innovation. You’ll discover futuristic aesthetics, ultra-fast displays and robust GPUs, making it simple to locate your ideal option regardless of your budget or gaming style.

Here are some of our top Intel Gamer Days selections. These systems are all equipped with Intel — ranging from entry-level setups to high-end machines crafted for professionals.

**Lenovo Legion 7i 16″ OLED Gaming Laptop**

For those who require high-end performance in a portable design, the Lenovo Legion 7i packs the full capability of Intel’s Core Ultra 9 and RTX 5070 graphics within a lavish aluminum casing. Whether you’re engaged in competitive gaming, 3D rendering, or live streaming, this laptop’s high-refresh OLED panel and abundant memory enable exceptional visuals and consistent speed. It’s the premier choice for those who game hard and work harder.

**Lenovo Legion 7i 16″ OLED Specs:**

– Intel Core Ultra 9-275HX processor
– NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 5070 GPU (8GB VRAM)
– 16″ OLED display, 240Hz refresh rate
– 32 GB DDR5 RAM
– Aerospace-grade aluminum construction

**Retailer:** [Best Buy Canada](https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product/lenovo-legion-7i-16-gaming-laptop-glacier-white-intel-core-ultra-9-275hx-32gb-ram-1tb-ssd-rtx-5070/19253368)
**Current Price:** $2,799.99 CAD

**ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 OLED Nebula 16″ Gaming Laptop**

Fusing portability, aesthetics, and cutting-edge performance, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 is tailored for gamers and creators on the go. With a stunning 120Hz OLED Nebula display and Intel’s Core Ultra 7 processor, this device offers immersive visuals and smart performance upgrades. Ideal for streaming, photo editing, and rapid gaming, it provides a sleek yet powerful solution for multitasking professionals and competitive gamers.

**ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 OLED Nebula 16″ Specs:**

– Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor
– NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU
– 16″ OLED Nebula Display, 120Hz
– 16 GB RAM
– 512 GB SSD

**Retailer:** [Best Buy Canada](https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product/asus-rog-zephyrus-g16-oled-nebula16-gaming-laptop-eclipse-grey-intel-core-ultra-7-155h-512gb-ssd-16gb-ram-geforce-rtx-4060/17717066)
**Current Price:** $2,299.99 CAD
**Sale price:** $1,999.99
**Save:** $300

**Lenovo Legion Pro 5i 16″ OLED Gaming Laptop**

A powerhouse in both aesthetics and capability, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5i offers elite computing performance with Intel’s Core i9 processor and RTX 5060 graphics. Whether you’re editing high-resolution videos, gaming with AAA titles at maximum settings or multitasking with demanding applications, this laptop is capable of handling it all. The vibrant OLED display brings games to life with sharp contrast and fluid refresh rates, making it a favorite among creators and competitive players alike.

**Lenovo Legion Pro 5i 16″ OLED Specs:**

– Intel Core i9-14900HX processor (5.8 GHz P-core, 4.1 GHz E-core)
– NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 GPU
– 16″ OLED display, 165Hz refresh rate
– 32 GB DDR5 5600 MHz RAM
– 1 TB M.2 NVMe SSD

**Retailer:** [Canada Computers](https://www.canadacomputers.com/en/gaming-laptops/272686/lenovo-legion-pro-5i-16-oled-intel-ultra-9-275hx-rtx-5060-32gb-1tb-83f3001fcc.html)
**Current Price:** $2,399.99 CAD
**Sale price:** $