Latest news with #Stick
The Citizen
a day ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Stick reveals why Siya won't face Barbarians in Boks' season opener
The Boks will now be led by experienced centre Jesse Kriel. Regular Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and his replacement Marco van Staden at the team's captain's run ahead of their match against the Barbarians in Cape Town on Saturday. Picture: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick believes captain Siya Kolisi would have been fit and ready to face the Barbarians in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon, but that it wasn't worth the risk in their opening match of the season. The game is also a non-Test against the famed invitational side, and with a long season ahead, which includes the incoming series against Italy and Georgia, the Rugby Championship and the end-of-year tour, it just wouldn't have made sense to risk exacerbating what seems to be a minor niggle. Stalwart outside centre Jesse Kriel thus takes up the Bok reins for the first time, with the coaching leadership fully behind his abilities to lead the team. 'We tried to give Siya the best opportunity to recover from a stiff neck that has been niggling him, but in the end we decided there was no need to take any risks and it made it easier for us that we had someone like Jesse ready to step in and lead the team,' explained Stick at Friday's pre-match presser. 'Chances are, by the time we get to the kick-off of the game, Siya's neck will have probably loosened. But a player has to be 100% whenever we play and whoever we play against, so we gave him some time to be ready and in the end had to make a decision. 'We have full confidence in Jesse as a captain as he has always been there as one of the leadership figures within the team.' Hard work rewarded Although Kriel won't become the 67th official captain of the Springboks due to it not being an official Test against the BaaBaas, as they are affectionately known, Stick said that it was due to his relentless hard work that he would be receiving the leadership honour. 'He didn't see it coming, but there's one thing that I enjoy about how we operate in our system. Players, they train and they work hard to be in the team first before they become captains,' explained Stick. 'That's one thing that I enjoy about Jesse. Even if he's not in the match 23, he always puts in the work and he always makes sure that he helps the team. 'He has always been there as one of our leaders. I'm excited to see Jesse's leadership skills. He has always been there, vocally and leading by example. So, for him to lead the team is great.' Looking at the Barbarians, Stick said the Boks are in for a massive battle, with them well known for their exciting, expansive play and that it would be the perfect challenge first up to prepare the team for the rest of their international campaign. 'They have players with that X-factor and many leaders in their team as well. Given the fact that it is tough to analyse them, we feel this is exactly the type of test we need to start off the international season,' said Stick. 'This obviously means our players have to make wise decisions on the field, and given the calibre of their players, we know it's going to be a challenging match.'
Irish Daily Star
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Star
I'm hooked on Apple TV+'s new crime drama despite problematic episode
Apple TV+'s latest crime drama commits what I perceive is the ultimate sin for a debut series, yet I find myself urging folks to give it a watch. Smoke has dropped its first two episodes, joining the ranks of Apple TV+'s high-end, original drama lineup that already includes titles like Your Friends and Neighbors, The Studio, Stick, Dope Thief, Murderbot, and Prime Target from earlier this year. That's quite the crowd of newbies vying for your screen time. As someone who critiques films and TV professionally, I get some early access to shows pre-release. So, just so you know, at the time of penning this, I've devoured the initial five episodes out of the nine-part season. Smoke is a slow burn until it gets going (Image: Apple) Keep in mind, three of those aren't even out for subscribers until July. This detail is key because if I had only seen the currently streaming premiere, I'd probably advise you to skip Smoke altogether. An early critique hailed Smoke as "nine great hours of television.", reports Wales Online . Here's the kicker: the critic must've binged the whole lot, because if they'd only seen the first couple of episodes, their tune might be different. Heads up, I'm about to share what goes down right at the start of Smoke. But hey, it might just convince you to fast-forward through the first 10 minutes or so. The series chronicles troubled detective Michelle Calderone, portrayed by Jurnee Smollett, who must join forces with arson expert Dave Gudsen, played by Taron Egerton, as they pursue two elusive serial arsonists. They find themselves enmeshed in a "twisted game of secrets and suspicions" as they delve into the crux of the frightening offenses. Drawing inspiration from real occurrences and the esteemed Firebug podcast, enthusiasts of the podcast will recognize where the narrative's critical turning point is headed. Launching a fresh series as it strives to carve out its characters, locale, concept, and convince viewers of its legitimacy is no small feat, encountering several pet peeves. Voiceover narration should be more than mere exhibition; it must authentically complement the visual storytelling, rather than indulging in pretentious reflections mirroring the show's theme. Another concern lies with erratic flashbacks; presenting past or future scenarios prior to identifying the temporal sequence can work effectively. However, juggling timelines incessantly risks obscuring the story's true genesis. Smoke plunges headfirst into these pitfalls. We're introduced to Taron Egerton's character amidst flames, ensnared within a burning structure, as his superfluous voiceover ruminates on conflagrations—and then, suddenly, he awakens! Similarly, when the series unveils our other lead, her background unfolds through sporadic, disjointed glimpses into the past. Despite the presence of these clichés, which is surprising given that the episode is written by seasoned scribe Dennis Lehane, I'd still urge most viewers to stick with it. We've arrived at one of the worst things a review could disclose to potential viewers: you'll need to endure the first two episodes before deciding if this show is your cup of tea. By the climactic scene of the second episode and its jaw-dropping plot twist, I've transitioned from wanting to throw in the towel to being hooked on what comes next. Taron Egerton in Smoke (Image: Apple) Starting from episode three, Egerton's fire investigator character evolves beyond just being an awful stepdad, revealing layers the show is gradually unmasking. Detective Calderone becomes intriguing when he's actually probing the central crime of the story rather than mulling over an affair, and I'm itching to uncover what's up with Ntare Mwine's Freddy Fasano. The series' weekly release schedule might pose a problem here, as it might be more enjoyable as a binge-watch. Smoke isn't the standout show of the year. It doesn't even top Apple's new series roster for 2025 (that honor goes to The Studio, in case you're curious), but I find myself irresistibly drawn to its intrigue, eager to see how it all wraps up and recommending it to anyone in search of a twist-filled crime drama. Smoke is streaming on Apple TV+.
Wales Online
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Apple TV+'s latest series does the worst thing for a new show but I can't help recommend it
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info *Warning - this article contains minor spoilers for the opening scene in Smoke, episode one* Apple TV+'s latest series does the worst thing a new show could possibly do, in my opinion, but I still can't help but recommend it. The first two episodes of Smoke are now available. It is the latest prestigious and original television drama series from the company. It comes after the likes of Your Friends & Neighbors, The Studio, Stick, Dope Thief, Murderbot and Prime Target all releasing earlier this year. That's a lot of new shows demanding your attention. As a film and TV writer and critic, I'm able to see shows before they're released. So, let it be known that as of writing, I have so far watched the first five episodes of the nine-part season. Three of those will not be available to subscribers until July. This is crucial, as had I only watched the premiere streaming now, I would most likely tell you not to bother at all with Smoke. (Image: Apple) An early review of Smoke claimed it is "nine great hours of television." That's the thing. The reviewer had clearly watched all nine hours, as had they only watched the first two, it would be described quite differently. Be warned, as I'm about to mention some aspects of what happens in Smoke's opening moments. However, it could lead you to realising you can skip the first 10 minutes or so. The series follows troubled detective, Michelle Calderone, played by Jurnee Smollett, who is made to team up with arson investigator, Dave Gudsen, played by Taron Egerton, as they track down two serial arsonists. Their investigation turns into a "twisted game of secrets and suspicions" as they try to track down those responsible for the alarming crimes. The series is inspired by true events and the acclaimed Firebug podcast. Those familiar with that podcast will already know where the biggest plot point leads. This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more Apple TV+ Get Apple TV+ free for a week TV fans can get Apple TV+ free with a seven-day trial and stream acclaimed shows like Severance, Ted Lasso and Slow Horses. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends and you won't pay a penny. £0 Apple TV+ Get Apple TV+ here Now, the worst way a new series which is attempting to establish its characters, setting, premise and convince viewers the premise is viable is one of a few things. At least it is for me personally. These include a voiceover. There really needs to be a good reason for this tactic. It cannot be just describing what should be shown or utilising flowery language about the show's theme. There's also intermittent flashbacks. You want to show a past or future event before telling the audience we are actually days later or before said event? Fine. But don't keep flashing between past and present as if you couldn't decide where the story should start. Smoke manages to do every one of these things. Taron Egerton's character begins trapped in a burning building, his voiceover pointlessly droning about fires then - he wakes up! When our other lead character is introduced, we get more intermittent flashbacks for her. However, despite all those tropes, which is surprising they are even present considering the episode is penned by an experienced writer in Dennis Lehane, I recommend most viewers to push on. We come to one of the other worst things that a review could tell a potential audience. You're going to have to make it through the first two episodes before knowing if this show is for you. By the final scene of the second episode and its huge plot twist, I've gone from wanting to give up, to needing to know what's next. (Image: Apple) From episode three, Egerton's arson investigator is more than just a terrible stepfather, there's a side the show is delicately peeling away to reveal. Detective Calderone is now interesting when actually investigating the story's central crime rather than reflecting on an affair, and I need to know just what is going on with Ntare Mwine's Freddy Fasano. The show's weekly release schedule could be an issue here, as perhaps it is better as a binge watch. Smoke is not the best show of the year. It's not even Apple's best new series of 2025 (The Studio, if you were wondering) but I still find myself attracted to its flames, needing to know how it all ends and recommending it to anyone who is after a twisty crime drama. Smoke is streaming on Apple TV+.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Marc Maron's new comedy special to stream in August
Actor and musician Marc Maron's new comedy special will be available to stream on HBO Max starting August 1, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Actor and musician Marc Maron 's new comedy special will be available to stream on HBO Max starting August 1, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The special, entitled Marc Maron: Panicked, will be Maron's second special for HBO and his sixth stand-up special overall. Details about the content of the special are sparse, but it describes the show saying "comedian and podcaster Marc Maron offers up his nuanced perspective on our increasingly uncertain world. " Maron is also the host of the long-running podcast WTF with Marc Maron (which he announced will end this fall after a 16-year run), as well as an actor in Netflix's Glow, the scripted series Maron, and the Apple TV+ golf comedy series Stick, in which he currently stars, as per The Hollywood Reporter. "I feel that this is the best work I've done. Everything came together. The direction, the production design, the shirt and the bits. HBO gets me and I'm thrilled to be presented by them," Maron said. "Marc is one of the all-time greats. His standup has a way of making you laugh while also cutting right to the bone -- he's funny, raw, and entirely one of a kind. We're so happy to work with him on his second HBO special," said Nina Rosenstein, executive vice president, HBO Programming, Late Night and Specials. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 임플란트 29만원 이벤트 임플란트 더 알아보기 Undo The comedy special will air at 8:00 p.m. on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max. The show is performed, written and executive produced by Marc Maron, executive produced by David Martin, produced by Avalon and directed by Steven Feinartz, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
New York Post
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Prime Video offers new ways to save money and time on streaming with subscriptions to Max, more
New York Post may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and/or when you make a purchase. We've all been there: staring at a log-in screen, wondering, What the heck is my login for this one?, inevitably giving up, and changing your password. What if we told you that Prime Video is making that a thing of the past? Meet subscriptions on Prime Video. Advertisement What are they? Great question; glad you asked! Prime Video Add-On Subscriptions are streaming services that can be subscribed to inside of Prime Video. Essentially, instead of subscribing to Max or Paramount+ through their own websites, you can subscribe to both through Prime Video. Any services you add-on will be available to watch right inside the Prime Video app — no second apps or new logins necessary. Now, instead of opening one streaming service to tune into the Season 3 premiere of 'The Gilded Age' (coming to Max on June 22), another to finish up the first season of 'Stick,' and another to tap into Season 5 of the 'The Chosen,' all you have to do is open the Prime Video app. Advertisement That's just one of the reasons why adding subscriptions to your Prime Video account is an appealing prospect for experienced streamers and newbies alike. Westeros, Vulcan, Middle-earth, and Hollywood (as depicted in 'The Studio') are all from different services, but here, they all exist within the same app. Keep reading for everything you need to know about subscriptions on Prime Video, including ways to add them and save monthly. How much do subscriptions on Prime Video cost? The price of subscriptions on Prime Video varies by subscription, but rest assured, you'll never pay more than a service costs outside of Prime Video to subscribe this way. For example, Max still starts at $9.99/month and has a $16.99/month option as well, and Apple TV+'s one ad-free plan for $9.99/month is the one offered on Prime Video. Advertisement These subscriptions are charged to the default card on your Amazon account on a monthly basis. Most, but not all, of the add-on subscriptions even come with a seven-day free trial; sometimes these trials are even exclusive to Prime Video, meaning you wouldn't get the trial if you subscribed elsewhere. What streaming services are available as subscriptions on Prime Video? Prime Video currently offers over 100 add-on subscriptions, from major streamers to niche interest services. Max, Apple TV+, Paramount+, and STARZ (which is currently $1.99/month for three months!) are some of the bigger services offered, but lovers of British TV should definitely consider signing up for Acorn TV and BritBox. Cinephiles who haven't checked out Mubi or Shudder yet: now is the time! Advertisement Sports fans can get their fix with add-on subscriptions to WNBA League Pass, MLB Network, NBA League Pass, and NBA TV. Save money every month with these Prime Video subscription bundles: In addition to standalone services, you can also subscribe to service duos at a discount every month. These bundles offer great bang for your buck, with some of the most popular services up to 25% off. Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post This article was written by Angela Tricarico, Commerce Writer/Reporter for Post Wanted Shopping and New York Post's streaming property, Decider. Angela keeps readers up to date with cord-cutter-friendly deals, and information on how to watch your favorite sports teams, TV shows, and movies on every streaming service. Not only does Angela test and compare the streaming services she writes about to ensure readers are getting the best prices, but she's also a superfan specializing in the intersection of shopping, tech, sports, and pop culture. Prior to joining Decider and The New York Post in 2023, she wrote about streaming and consumer tech at Insider Reviews
