0:03
Disney's live-action Moana crashes to shore with an underwhelming splash at the box office
Disney’s new live‑action Moana has hit theaters with Dwayne Johnson back as Maui and Catherine Lagaʻaia stepping into the role of the Polynesian princess. Lagaʻaia’s performance is getting the nod, with many noting she brings fresh energy to the story.
Critics, however, aren’t buying the whole package. The consensus is that the film feels like a shot‑for‑shot remake of the original animated hit, and the reviews have been pretty flat across the board.
That lukewarm reception is showing up at the box office. The movie’s opening numbers are modest, far from the splash Disney hoped for, and it’s already being labeled an underwhelming start.
All in all, the live‑action version is getting mixed signals: a solid lead from Johnson, a standout newcomer in Lagaʻaia, but a lot of disappointment from reviewers and ticket sales alike.
0:24
Scott Jennings Takes Twisted Victory Lap at Mitch McConnell Reveal
Scott Jennings, a CNN commentator and former senior adviser to Mitch McConnell, is taking a victory lap after McConnell's office released a photo of the senator in a hospital bed. Jennings had claimed to have spoken to McConnell on July 7, discussing Iran and Ukraine, and said he wanted to see McConnell back at work soon. His claims were initially met with skepticism and memes on social media, but he's now using McConnell's photo to prove his doubters wrong.
Jennings commented on a post from CNN contributor Jeff Storobinsky, saying "Always have. Always do. Thanks Jeff," and shared a meme from The Office with the caption "The thing about being honest is that you never have to worry about a darn thing." However, not everyone is convinced that McConnell's photo is genuine, with some right-wing figures expressing doubt about its authenticity.
Jennings appeared on multiple CNN programs on July 7 to discuss his former boss, but declined a request to call McConnell live on air as proof of life. When asked about McConnell's hospitalization, Jennings said he didn't know why the senator was in the hospital and didn't probe him for medical records.
CNN has clarified that Jennings is not a full-time employee or journalist for the network, and that his account of the conversation with McConnell reflects his experience, not CNN reporting.
0:57
CJI-led Bench to hear pleas on Ram Temple donation embezzlement case | LIVE
The Supreme Court’s chief‑justice‑led bench has set a hearing to consider a petition that asks for a full disclosure of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’s finances, including any overseas contributions. The request comes from RJD MP Sudhakar Singh, who wants the trust’s accounts published so the public can see exactly where the temple’s donations have gone.
Alongside Singh’s filing, two other petitions are on the docket, each pressing for greater transparency around the trust’s handling of funds. The court will examine whether the trust has complied with existing financial regulations and whether any irregularities need to be addressed.
If the bench orders the details released, it could set a precedent for how religious‑institution finances are scrutinized in India, potentially prompting tighter oversight of future donation streams.
1:19
Japan Is Building a New Intelligence Agency With Help From the West
So Japan's prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is working on setting up a new intelligence agency, and they're getting some help from western countries. The goal is to better protect Japan's state secrets and important technologies, as well as defend against foreign influence operations. This is a big deal for Japan, as they're looking to step up their security game.
From what's known, the new agency will be focused on gathering and analyzing intelligence, as well as conducting counterintelligence operations. This will help Japan to stay ahead of potential threats and protect its interests. It's also likely that the agency will work closely with other countries to share information and coordinate efforts.
The move is seen as a response to growing concerns about foreign influence and espionage in Japan. There's a sense that the country needs to be more proactive in defending itself against these kinds of threats, and the new agency is a key part of that effort. It's still early days, but it'll be interesting to see how this all plays out.
1:44
Mini-pitches bringing soccer to new U.S. neighborhoods
So I've been reading about this organization that's building mini-soccer pitches in new neighborhoods across the US. They've already set up over 200 of these smaller fields, and it's making a huge difference in communities that didn't have access to soccer facilities before.
In New Jersey, near MetLife Stadium where the World Cup final will be held, they've transformed a school into a hub for soccer. The mini-pitches have become a gathering spot for kids and adults alike, and it's not just about the game – it's about building a sense of community.
The organization's goal is to create more opportunities for people to play soccer, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. They're working with local schools, community centers, and even businesses to make this happen. It's amazing to see how something as simple as a mini-soccer pitch can bring people together.
These mini-pitches are also designed to be more accessible and affordable than traditional soccer fields. They're often smaller, which makes them easier to maintain and less expensive to build. Plus, they can be used for other activities like fitness classes or even just hanging out.
The organization's efforts are paying off, with more and more people discovering the joy of soccer and the sense of belonging that comes with it. It's a great example of how sports can bring people together and make a real difference in their lives.
2:18
Mastermind of €88m Louvre heist thought they ‘could have taken more’
In October 2025, two men walked out of the Louvre with a haul valued at €88 million, including a jeweled crown once worn by Empress Eugénie.
During their recent questioning, they said the mastermind behind the job was actually disappointed, insisting they could have taken more.
The interrogation was recorded by the two judges leading the case, giving a detailed picture of the daring robbery that shocked the world.
The fallout was swift—the museum’s director stepped down amid the scandal, and the incident continues to dominate headlines.
2:33
Swedish MEP files police complaint accusing Danish colleague of racist hate speech
A Swedish member of the European Parliament filed a police complaint in Sweden last week, accusing her Danish colleague of racist hate speech. The complaint follows a wave of online abuse she received after publicly condemning a group of right‑wing MEPs who shouted “send them back” in the chamber after a vote on tougher EU deportation rules.
The Swedish MEP, Abir Al‑Sahlani, said the chants crossed the line into hate speech and that the subsequent social‑media attacks warranted legal action.
Swedish police are now handling the case, which highlights growing tensions over immigration rhetoric inside the parliament.
2:50
Is the most popular song played on Australian radio stations the product of generative AI?
Josh Fawaz’s cover of Madonna’s
2:54
Britons give classic round tomato the red card as coloured and vine varieties score
The classic round tomato's reign in Britain is ending, with sales down as consumers increasingly opt for more colourful options. Non-red tomatoes have seen a 21% sales boost this year, outpacing the overall market. Cherry-on-the-vine tomatoes are now a top contender, with premium varieties poised to take the top spot in the £1bn-a-year tomato market. According to Evesham Vale Growers, consumers are looking for more variety in their tomatoes, and the traditional round red tomato is no longer the only choice. This shift is expected to continue, with cherry-on-the-vine tomatoes becoming a staple in British salads and sandwiches.
3:11
Japan Is Building a New Intelligence Agency With Help From the West
Japan’s prime minister announced at the G7 in France that the government will create a new intelligence agency, drawing on expertise from the United States and its allies. The plan aims to tighten protection of state secrets and critical technologies, and to give the agency tools to spot and counter foreign influence operations. Officials say the new body will consolidate fragmented existing units, granting it broader authority and modern surveillance capabilities. The move reflects growing concern over espionage and cyber threats, especially from neighboring powers, and signals Japan’s shift toward a more proactive security posture.
