Actors Who Were a Cultural Phenomenon

The world of cinema has produced many stars but only a select few have transcended the screen to become true cultural phenomena. These actors did more than just perform in popular movies as they influenced fashion and social attitudes and global trends. Their impact can be felt in the way audiences dress and speak and perceive the world around them. This list explores the leading men who defined specific eras and captured the collective imagination of the public.

Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin became the first global superstar of the silent film era through his iconic character the Little Tramp. His ability to blend slapstick comedy with deep emotional pathos resonated with audiences across the entire world. Films such as ‘The Kid’ and ‘Modern Times’ addressed social issues while providing universal entertainment that required no translation. He transformed the film industry by gaining creative control over his productions and founding his own studio. His recognizable silhouette and costume remain among the most enduring symbols in the history of the performing arts.

Humphrey Bogart

Humphrey Bogart came to define the hardboiled detective and the weary romantic during the golden age of Hollywood cinema. His roles in classics like ‘Casablanca’ and ‘The Maltese Falcon’ established a new type of leading man who was cynical yet principled. He became a symbol of stoic masculinity and urban cool that influenced the film noir genre for many years. His distinctive voice and screen presence made him an instantly recognizable figure in popular culture around the globe. Even decades after his passing he continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest male stars in cinematic history.

James Dean

James Dean became the ultimate symbol of teenage disillusionment and social estrangement during the middle of the twentieth century. His performance in ‘Rebel Without a Cause’ captured the restless energy of a generation seeking identity in a changing world. Despite a tragically short career he left an indelible mark on fashion and acting styles that persisted for decades. He remains a primary icon of cool whose influence can still be seen in contemporary cinema and youth culture. His rebellious image continues to inspire young people who feel out of place in mainstream society.

Marlon Brando

Marlon Brando revolutionized the craft of acting by bringing a raw and naturalistic intensity to the silver screen. His breakout performance in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ introduced the world to the method acting technique which changed how future generations approached their roles. Throughout the middle of the century he became a symbol of rebellion and artistic integrity in films like ‘The Wild One’. His portrayal of Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ solidified his status as a cinematic legend and cultural icon. He is often cited as the most influential actor of his time due to his commitment to psychological realism.

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley was a massive cultural force who transitioned from a dominant music career into a successful run as a film star. His movies such as ‘Jailhouse Rock’ and ‘Blue Hawaii’ were major box office hits that showcased his immense charisma and musical talent. He represented the rise of youth culture and the blending of different musical traditions during the nineteen fifties and sixties. His image and style became a global phenomenon that influenced fashion and lifestyle choices for millions of fans. He remains one of the most significant cultural icons of the twentieth century with a legacy that spans multiple entertainment mediums.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier broke significant racial barriers in Hollywood and became the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. His performances in films like ‘Lilies of the Field’ and ‘In the Heat of the Night’ challenged social norms and promoted civil rights. He brought a sense of dignity and intelligence to his roles that shifted how Black characters were portrayed on the screen. His success opened doors for future generations of actors of color and left a lasting impact on American culture. He is remembered as a trailblazer who used his talent to advocate for equality and social change.

Paul Newman

Paul Newman was a major star known for his striking blue eyes and his roles as charming antiheroes. He achieved massive fame with performances in ‘The Hustler’ and ‘Cool Hand Luke’ which showcased his cool demeanor and rebellious spirit. Beyond his acting career he became a successful racing driver and a dedicated philanthropist who donated millions to charity. His enduring appeal across several decades made him a symbol of classic Hollywood masculinity and integrity. He managed to maintain his status as a top leading man while diversifying into directing and social activism.

Steve McQueen

Steve McQueen earned the nickname the King of Cool due to his relaxed screen presence and his passion for motor racing. He starred in iconic films like ‘Bullitt’ and ‘The Great Escape’ which featured some of the most famous action sequences in cinema. His rugged style and antiestablishment attitude resonated with audiences during the nineteen sixties and seventies. He became a fashion icon whose preferred clothing items are still associated with his effortless sense of style. His legacy as a definitive action star continues to influence the way modern blockbusters are filmed and marketed.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood became an international icon through his roles in spaghetti westerns like ‘A Fistful of Dollars’ and ‘The Good the Bad and the Ugly’. He redefined the western hero as a silent and morally ambiguous figure known as the Man with No Name. Later he transitioned into the role of a gritty urban detective in ‘Dirty Harry’ which further cemented his status as a tough leading man. His long career as both an actor and an acclaimed director has made him a cornerstone of the film industry. He remains a symbol of American masculinity and independent filmmaking who continues to work well into his later years.

Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee was a global superstar who revolutionized the martial arts genre and changed the way Asians were portrayed in Western media. His films like ‘Enter the Dragon’ and ‘Fist of Fury’ showcased his incredible physical skill and philosophical approach to combat. He became a cultural bridge between East and West and inspired millions of people to take up martial arts training. His charisma and screen presence made him a legendary figure whose influence extends into fitness and philosophy and cinema. Despite his early death he remains the most famous martial artist in history and a permanent pop culture icon.

John Travolta

John Travolta became a massive sensation in the late nineteen seventies with his roles in ‘Saturday Night Fever’ and ‘Grease’. He came to personify the disco era with his iconic dance moves and white suit which became symbols of the decade. His sudden rise to fame made him one of the biggest stars in the world and a major heartthrob for a generation of fans. After a career slump he experienced a major resurgence in the nineties with his role in ‘Pulp Fiction’. He remains a significant figure in entertainment history who has navigated multiple eras of popular culture.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger transitioned from a world champion bodybuilder to one of the biggest action stars in cinematic history. His role in ‘The Terminator’ created a cultural phenomenon and introduced catchphrases that are still used today. He starred in a string of massive hits like ‘Predator’ and ‘Total Recall’ which defined the action genre of the eighties and nineties. His journey from an immigrant athlete to a Hollywood star and eventually a politician is a unique American success story. He remains a global symbol of physical strength and commercial success in the entertainment industry.

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone became a cultural icon by writing and starring in ‘Rocky’ which became a definitive underdog story. The character of Rocky Balboa resonated deeply with audiences and spawned a long running franchise that celebrates perseverance. He further solidified his status as an action legend with the ‘Rambo’ series which captured the political climate of the eighties. His dedication to his roles and his ability to create enduring cinematic heroes made him a household name around the world. He continues to be a major force in Hollywood by revisiting his classic characters for new generations.

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford became the face of two of the most successful film franchises in history with his roles in ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Indiana Jones’. His portrayals of Han Solo and Indiana Jones made him a global symbol of the adventurous and relatable hero. He has a unique ability to combine gruffness with charm which has endeared him to audiences for several decades. Beyond these franchises he starred in acclaimed films like ‘Blade Runner’ and ‘The Fugitive’ which showcased his range as a leading man. He remains one of the highest grossing actors of all time and a pillar of modern blockbuster cinema.

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise became a definitive movie star in the nineteen eighties with his breakout role in ‘Top Gun’. His intense work ethic and commitment to performing his own stunts have made him a unique figure in Hollywood history. He has maintained his status as a top box office draw for over four decades with hits like the ‘Mission: Impossible’ series. His high energy persona and public life have made him a constant subject of media fascination and cultural discussion. He is often seen as the last of the traditional movie stars who can guarantee a global hit based on his name alone.

Michael J. Fox

Michael J. Fox became a beloved cultural icon through his role as Marty McFly in the ‘Back to the Future’ trilogy. His boyish charm and comedic timing made him one of the most popular stars of the nineteen eighties. He also starred in the hit television series ‘Family Ties’ where he portrayed the memorable character Alex P. Keaton. After being diagnosed with Parkinsons disease he became a prominent advocate for medical research and a symbol of resilience. His enduring popularity is a testament to his talent and the positive impact he has had on fans and the medical community.

Leonardo DiCaprio

Leonardo DiCaprio became a global heartthrob and a massive cultural phenomenon following the release of ‘Titanic’. The intense fan reaction known as Leo-mania made him one of the most recognizable faces in the world at a young age. He successfully transitioned from a teen idol into a critically acclaimed actor by working with top directors on films like ‘The Departed’ and ‘Inception’. His environmental activism has also made him a significant figure outside of his acting career. He is now regarded as one of the finest actors of his generation who consistently chooses challenging and prestigious roles.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt rose to fame in the nineteen nineties and quickly became a symbol of modern Hollywood stardom. His roles in films like ‘Legends of the Fall’ and ‘Fight Club’ showcased both his leading man looks and his willingness to take on unconventional characters. He has remained at the center of the cultural conversation for decades due to his high profile relationships and his work as a producer. His performance in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his status as a screen legend. He continues to be a major influence on fashion and the film industry through his production company Plan B.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp became a unique cultural phenomenon by choosing eccentric and character driven roles over traditional leading man parts. His collaboration with Tim Burton on ‘Edward Scissorhands’ established his reputation as a versatile and visual performer. He achieved massive commercial success and global fame with his portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise. His bohemian style and artistic approach to acting made him a distinctive figure in the entertainment world for many years. He remains a highly influential actor known for his ability to disappear into a wide variety of strange and memorable roles.

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. experienced one of the most remarkable career comebacks in Hollywood history when he was cast as Tony Stark in ‘Iron Man’. His charismatic performance launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe and made him a global superstar for a new generation. He became synonymous with the character and helped turn superhero movies into a dominant cultural force. Before his success as a blockbuster star he was widely respected for his talent in films like ‘Chaplin’. His journey of personal redemption and professional success has made him an inspirational figure to many fans around the world.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves became a major star in the nineties with his roles in ‘Speed’ and ‘The Matrix’ which redefined action cinema. The character of Neo became a cultural icon of the digital age and sparked discussions about philosophy and technology. In recent years he has seen a massive resurgence in popularity with the ‘John Wick’ series which created a new standard for action choreography. He is also widely celebrated for his humility and kind reputation which has made him a beloved figure on the internet. His enduring career and enigmatic persona continue to captivate audiences across multiple generations.

Will Smith

Will Smith transitioned from a successful rap career to become one of the biggest television and film stars in the world. His role in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ made him a household name before he moved into blockbuster movies like ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Men in Black’. He was known for his immense charisma and his ability to carry massive summer hits during the nineties and early two thousands. He became a global symbol of crossover success and one of the few actors who could guarantee box office results internationally. His career has spanned music and television and film making him a versatile and influential cultural figure.

Heath Ledger

Heath Ledger became a cultural phenomenon due to his transformative performances and his tragic death at the height of his fame. His role in ‘Brokeback Mountain’ was a landmark moment for queer representation in mainstream cinema and earned him critical acclaim. He reached a new level of legendary status with his portrayal of the Joker in ‘The Dark Knight’ which is considered one of the greatest performances in film history. The posthumous recognition he received for the role highlighted his immense talent and the loss felt by the film community. He remains an inspiration for actors who seek to fully immerse themselves in their characters.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson became an overnight sensation and a major teen idol through his role as Edward Cullen in the ‘Twilight’ saga. The intense media scrutiny and fan obsession surrounding the franchise made him a central figure in popular culture for several years. He intentionally moved away from blockbuster roles to focus on independent films like ‘The Lighthouse’ and ‘Good Time’ to prove his range as an actor. His eventual return to major studio films as the lead in ‘The Batman’ showed his successful transition into a respected leading man. He is now known for his eccentric personality and his commitment to unconventional and artistic projects.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling became a significant cultural figure after his breakout role in the romantic drama ‘The Notebook’. He became a popular subject of internet memes and a symbol of sensitive masculinity which helped maintain his fame. He has balanced his career between romantic roles and intense dramas like ‘Drive’ and ‘Blade Runner 2049’. His performance as Ken in ‘Barbie’ became a massive cultural moment that showcased his comedic talent and ability to embrace satire. He is regarded as one of the most versatile actors of his generation with a strong influence on modern fashion and style.

Jackie Chan

Jackie Chan became a global icon by combining incredible martial arts skills with innovative physical comedy. He gained massive popularity in Asia before crossing over to international superstardom with hits like ‘Rush Hour’ and ‘Rumble in the Bronx’. His dedication to performing his own dangerous stunts has earned him a unique place in film history and the respect of audiences worldwide. He created a specific brand of action film that focuses on humor and creative use of the environment during fight scenes. He is one of the most recognizable people on the planet and has received an honorary Oscar for his extraordinary achievements in film.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation and a powerful cultural force. He has portrayed numerous real life figures and fictional heroes with a sense of authority and deep emotional truth. His roles in ‘Glory’ and ‘Training Day’ earned him Academy Awards and solidified his status as a premier leading man. He has consistently used his platform to champion diverse stories and has become a mentor to many younger actors in the industry. His commanding screen presence and impeccable talent have made him a permanent fixture in the landscape of American cinema.

Al Pacino

Al Pacino became a defining figure of the nineteen seventies Hollywood Renaissance with his intense and brooding performances. His role as Michael Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ trilogy is considered one of the most iconic character arcs in the history of film. He followed this with powerful turns in ‘Serpico’ and ‘Dog Day Afternoon’ which showcased his range and dedication to the craft. His energetic acting style and famous lines have become deeply embedded in popular culture and are frequently imitated. He remains a legendary figure whose work has influenced countless actors and filmmakers over the course of his long career.

Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro is known for his extreme dedication to his roles and his frequent collaborations with director Martin Scorsese. His performances in ‘Taxi Driver’ and ‘Raging Bull’ redefined the possibilities of character acting through intense physical and psychological preparation. He became a symbol of the gritty and realistic style of filmmaking that dominated the nineteen seventies and eighties. Later in his career he successfully transitioned into comedic roles in films like ‘Meet the Parents’ which introduced him to a new generation. He is cofounder of the Tribeca Film Festival and remains a titan of the acting world.

Patrick Swayze

Patrick Swayze became a major cultural phenomenon in the late nineteen eighties with his roles in ‘Dirty Dancing’ and ‘Ghost’. He was a trained dancer whose grace and athleticism brought a unique quality to his performances as a leading man. His role in ‘Point Break’ further established him as an action star who could also handle complex and philosophical characters. He became a global heartthrob and a symbol of romantic masculinity during the height of his career. His courage while facing a terminal illness late in life earned him further respect and admiration from fans around the world.

Cary Grant

Cary Grant was the epitome of the sophisticated and charming leading man during the golden age of Hollywood. He starred in a wide range of screwball comedies and suspenseful thrillers like ‘North by Northwest’ and ‘The Philadelphia Story’. His transatlantic accent and impeccable sense of style made him a global symbol of elegance and wit. He maintained his status as a top star for several decades and was known for his excellent comedic timing. He remains a primary influence on the concept of the suave movie star and is still celebrated for his timeless appeal.

Gregory Peck

Gregory Peck became a cultural icon through his portrayal of morally upright and heroic characters. His most famous role as Atticus Finch in ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ became a symbol of integrity and justice that resonated with audiences during the civil rights movement. He brought a sense of quiet strength and dignity to all of his performances in films like ‘Roman Holiday’ and ‘The Guns of Navarone’. Beyond his acting he was a dedicated activist and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his humanitarian work. He is remembered as one of the most respected figures in Hollywood history who used his fame for the greater good.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Daniel Day-Lewis is celebrated for his extreme method acting and his ability to completely transform for every role. He has won three Academy Awards for Best Actor for his work in ‘My Left Foot’ and ‘There Will Be Blood’ and ‘Lincoln’. His selective approach to choosing projects and his intense preparation have made him a legendary and somewhat mysterious figure in the film industry. He often stays in character for the entire duration of a film shoot which has led to many famous stories about his dedication. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest actors to ever appear on the screen.

George Clooney

George Clooney transitioned from a popular television actor on ‘ER’ to one of the biggest movie stars and filmmakers in the world. He became a modern symbol of classic Hollywood glamour and was often compared to the leading men of the golden age. His work in films like ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Up in the Air’ showcased his charm and his ability to lead a major ensemble cast. He is also a prominent humanitarian and political activist who has used his celebrity status to draw attention to global issues. His success as an actor and a director and a producer has made him one of the most influential people in entertainment.

Shah Rukh Khan

Shah Rukh Khan is often referred to as the King of Bollywood and is one of the biggest movie stars in the entire world. He has starred in over eighty films and has a massive global following that spans across continents and cultures. His roles in romantic classics like ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ made him a symbol of love and hope for millions of fans. Beyond his acting he is a successful producer and a prominent television personality who has become a significant cultural ambassador for India. He is known for his immense charisma and his ability to connect with audiences from all walks of life.

Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan became a massive sensation in India during the nineteen seventies as the angry young man of cinema. His roles in films like ‘Zanjeer’ and ‘Sholay’ resonated with a generation of viewers who felt frustrated by social and political issues. He has maintained his status as a legendary figure for over five decades by evolving his screen persona and taking on diverse roles. His deep voice and commanding presence have made him an iconic figure in Indian popular culture and beyond. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential actors in the history of world cinema.

Burt Reynolds

Burt Reynolds was a major cultural phenomenon and the top box office draw in the world during the late nineteen seventies. He became a symbol of masculinity and Southern charm through hits like ‘Smokey and the Bandit’ and ‘Deliverance’. His signature mustache and playful persona made him one of the most recognizable and beloved celebrities of his era. He was also a pioneer in the world of celebrity marketing and was famously the first male nude centerfold for a major magazine. His impact on popular culture was immense and he remained a significant figure in the industry for many years.

Robin Williams

Robin Williams was a unique comedic genius who became a global phenomenon through his incredible energy and improvisational skills. He rose to fame on the television show ‘Mork and Mindy’ before transitioning into a successful film career with hits like ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Aladdin’. He also proved his depth as a dramatic actor in films like ‘Good Will Hunting’ and ‘Dead Poets Society’ which earned him critical acclaim. His ability to make audiences both laugh and cry made him one of the most beloved figures in entertainment history. His legacy continues to inspire comedians and actors who admire his boundless creativity and warmth.

James Stewart

James Stewart was one of the most popular and enduring stars of the golden age of Hollywood known for his relatability and distinctive voice. He often played the role of the honest and idealistic American in films like ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington’ and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’. His collaborations with director Alfred Hitchcock in classics like ‘Rear Window’ and ‘Vertigo’ showcased his range and ability to play more complex characters. He was also a highly decorated war hero which added to his reputation as a man of great character and integrity. He remains a beloved symbol of American values and one of the most celebrated performers from the classic era.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey became a massive cultural sensation in the nineteen nineties by redefining physical comedy for a new generation. His string of hits in a single year including ‘Ace Ventura: Pet Detective’ and ‘The Mask’ and ‘Dumb and Dumber’ remains an unprecedented achievement. He was known for his rubber like facial expressions and high energy performances that dominated the box office for a decade. He later showcased his versatility with dramatic turns in films like ‘The Truman Show’ and ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’. He remains one of the most famous and influential comedic actors in the history of the medium.

Bruce Willis

Bruce Willis became a global action icon with his portrayal of John McClane in the ‘Die Hard’ franchise. He redefined the action hero as an everyman who was vulnerable and relatable rather than an indestructible superhuman. His success in television on ‘Moonlighting’ provided a springboard for a massive film career that included hits like ‘The Sixth Sense’ and ‘Pulp Fiction’. He became a symbol of tough yet witty masculinity that influenced the action genre for several decades. His retirement due to health issues was met with a widespread outpouring of support and recognition of his significant impact on cinema.

Adam Sandler

Adam Sandler became a dominant force in comedy after his successful run on ‘Saturday Night Live’ led to a prolific film career. His unique brand of humor in movies like ‘Billy Madison’ and ‘Happy Gilmore’ created a massive and loyal fanbase. He transitioned into producing through his company Happy Madison and became one of the most successful commercial actors in Hollywood. In recent years he has received critical acclaim for his dramatic performances in films like ‘Uncut Gems’ which showcased his range. He remains a major cultural figure whose movies continue to be significant hits on streaming platforms and in theaters.

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson rose to international fame through his roles in the ‘Mad Max’ and ‘Lethal Weapon’ series which established him as a premier action star. He became a massive cultural icon known for his intense screen presence and his ability to combine action with humor. He later achieved great success as a director with ‘Braveheart’ which won the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Director. His career has been marked by significant commercial highs and highly publicized personal challenges that have made him a complex figure in the public eye. Despite controversies he remains a significant part of film history due to his contributions as both an actor and a filmmaker.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy became a massive superstar in the nineteen eighties through his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and a string of hit movies. His roles in ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ’48 Hrs.’ made him one of the biggest box office draws in the world and a leading figure in comedy. He was known for his incredible charisma and his ability to play multiple characters in films like ‘Coming to America’ and ‘The Nutty Professor’. He also had a successful career as a stand up comedian and a recording artist which further expanded his cultural impact. He is regarded as a trailblazer who opened doors for many other Black comedians and actors in the entertainment industry.

River Phoenix

River Phoenix became a symbol of raw talent and youthful sensitivity during the late nineteen eighties and early nineties. His performances in films like ‘Stand by Me’ and ‘My Own Private Idaho’ showcased a depth that was rare for actors of his age. He was a prominent advocate for animal rights and environmental causes which added to his status as a cultural icon for the younger generation. His sudden and tragic passing at a young age left a profound impact on his peers and fans alike. He continues to be remembered as a gifted performer whose work left a lasting legacy on independent cinema.

John Wayne

John Wayne was the definitive face of the American Western and a symbol of rugged individualism for many decades. He starred in over one hundred films including classics like ‘The Searchers’ and ‘Stagecoach’ which defined the genre. His screen presence and distinctive drawl made him one of the most recognizable stars in the history of cinema. He represented a specific era of traditional masculinity and patriotic values that resonated with a massive audience. Even long after his death he remains a cornerstone of Hollywood history and a symbol of the frontier spirit.

Kirk Douglas

Kirk Douglas was known for his intense acting style and his roles as strong and often morally complex characters. He achieved massive fame with films like ‘Spartacus’ and ‘Paths of Glory’ which showcased his powerful screen presence. He was also a significant figure behind the scenes who helped end the Hollywood blacklist by publicly hiring a blacklisted writer. His long and successful career made him one of the last surviving stars of the golden age of cinema. He is remembered as a versatile performer and a man of great conviction who left an indelible mark on the film industry.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman became a global cultural icon known for his calm demeanor and his iconic authoritative voice. He achieved widespread recognition later in his career with performances in ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ and ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. His ability to bring wisdom and gravity to his roles has made him one of the most respected actors in modern Hollywood. He has portrayed various significant figures including God and Nelson Mandela which has solidified his status as a cinematic legend. He remains a beloved figure whose voice and presence are instantly recognizable to audiences of all ages.

Laurence Olivier

Laurence Olivier is widely considered one of the greatest actors of the twentieth century with a career that spanned both stage and screen. He brought a sense of theatrical grandeur to his film roles in ‘Hamlet’ and ‘Wuthering Heights’ which earned him numerous awards. He was a master of transformation who often used elaborate costumes and makeup to disappear into his characters. His work as a director and his role in establishing the National Theatre in London cemented his status as a giant of the performing arts. He remains a primary influence for any actor seeking to master the craft of classical performance.

Tell us which of these legendary leading men had the biggest impact on your own perspective of cinema in the comments.