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Global oil prices have risen sharply in recent weeks, fuelled by escalating geopolitical tensions and strategic moves by major producers. The result is a familiar squeeze on British drivers, with forecourt prices already edging upwards and warnings of broader economic consequences beginning to emerge. The Global Picture: Conflict and Supply Disruption The latest surge in oil prices has been driven in part by intensifying hostilities between Ukraine and Russia. A series of Ukrainian drone attacks has reportedly knocked out more than 10 percent of Russia’s oil refining capacity, targeting military airfields and strategic energy infrastructure. The strikes mark a bold new phase in the conflict and have sparked concerns over the stability of global supply. Russia’s potential retaliation could further disrupt oil exports, a risk that has already rattled commodity markets. Brent crude oil, the international benchmark, has traded above 90 US dollars per barrel in recent sessions – its highest level since early 2024. Market analysts suggest that unless tensions ease, the price could breach the 100-dollar mark in the coming weeks. Adding to the uncertainty, the oil producers’ alliance OPEC+ has announced an increase in output for July. The move is designed to rein in over-producing members and maintain market stability. However, investors appear unconvinced. Rising production has been overshadowed by fears of prolonged geopolitical instability and the potential for widespread disruption. From Global Shocks to Local Strain The impact of surging oil prices is already being felt at the UK’s petrol stations. In the first week of June, average prices for unleaded petrol rose to around 150p per litre. Analysts now warn that continued market turbulence could see this figure increase to between 155p and 160p per litre by July. For the average British motorist, that translates to several pounds more per fill-up. For households dependent on regular travel – particularly in rural or semi-urban areas with limited public transport – the financial strain could escalate quickly. Yet the effects are not confined to personal transport. Rising fuel costs feed directly into the cost of moving goods, raising the price of food, consumer products and everyday essentials. Businesses in logistics, retail and hospitality are expected to pass on some of those costs, further intensifying the pressure on household budgets. Economic Ripple Effects According to economic observers, a sustained rise in oil prices could feed into broader inflationary pressures. Higher transport costs are likely to raise prices across multiple sectors, potentially derailing efforts to keep inflation in check. The Bank of England, which has been cautiously optimistic about slowing price growth, may now need to reassess its outlook. In the aviation sector, airlines have warned of fuel cost volatility impacting their summer schedules. Delivery companies are also watching the situation closely, with the possibility of temporary surcharges being reintroduced if wholesale fuel prices remain elevated. The government is under growing pressure to provide support. Although the 5p fuel duty cut introduced in 2022 remains in place, motoring organisations have renewed calls for further relief. Campaigners argue that without action, rising fuel prices could deepen the cost of living crisis for millions. The Political Calculus With a general election expected within the next year, fuel prices could quickly become a political flashpoint. Ministers will be keen to avoid a repeat of past protests, such as the fuel blockades of the early 2000s. Treasury officials are reportedly monitoring the situation, though any additional cuts to fuel duty would carry a significant fiscal cost. Public sentiment is also shifting. A YouGov survey conducted last week found that over 60 percent of UK adults believe the government should do more to protect consumers from global energy price shocks. For policymakers in Westminster, the challenge will be balancing economic stability with voter expectations. Looking Ahead The outlook for oil prices – and the knock-on effects in the UK – remains uncertain. Much depends on developments in Eastern Europe and the response of major oil-producing nations in the coming months. What is clear is that British drivers and consumers are once again caught in the crossfire of global energy politics. If oil prices continue to rise, the UK could be heading into another season of economic tension, with motorists once again feeling the sharp end of international conflict.

The eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are once again engulfed in turmoil as the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, intensifies the long-standing conflict. The rapid territorial gains by M23, particularly in North and South Kivu, have not only displaced hundreds of thousands but also reignited regional tensions, drawing international concern. Historical Context: A Legacy of Unresolved Tensions The roots of the current crisis trace back to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. As Hutu militias responsible for the genocide fled into eastern DRC, they formed the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a group that has since posed a persistent security threat to Rwanda. Kigali has repeatedly accused the DRC of harboring these elements, while Kinshasa alleges that Rwanda exploits this pretext to interfere in its internal affairs. In 2012, the March 23 Movement (M23) emerged, primarily composed of Tutsi fighters who accused the DRC government of failing to honor a 2009 peace agreement that promised the integration of Tutsi rebels into the national army and the protection of minority communities. Although M23 briefly captured Goma in 2012, international pressure led to their withdrawal, and the group largely faded from prominence until its resurgence in late 2021. Recent Developments: A Surge in Hostilities The conflict escalated dramatically in early 2025. On January 26, M23 forces seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu, marking a significant strategic and symbolic victory. The rapid advance continued southward, with the rebels capturing Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, shortly thereafter. These offensives have effectively placed both provincial capitals under M23 control, severely undermining the DRC government's authority in the region. The United Nations estimates that over 700,000 people have been displaced within Goma alone, contributing to a nationwide total of 7.8 million internally displaced persons. The humanitarian situation is dire, with limited access to food, clean water, and medical care exacerbating the suffering of affected populations. Humanitarian Crisis: Civilians Caught in the Crossfire Reports from Amnesty International detail harrowing accounts of human rights abuses committed by M23 rebels. Former detainees describe being unlawfully imprisoned, tortured, and held in inhumane conditions after being accused, often without evidence, of supporting the Congolese government. Overcrowding, lack of basic necessities, and instances of enforced disappearances have been documented, painting a grim picture of life under rebel control. The conflict has also taken a toll on the environment. In areas like Kahuzi-Biega National Park, illegal logging and charcoal production have surged under M23's watch, threatening endangered species such as the eastern lowland gorilla and causing irreversible ecological damage. Economic Implications: Strained Resources and Strategic Interests Eastern DRC's wealth of minerals, including coltan, cobalt, and gold, has long been both a blessing and a curse. The M23's control over key mining areas, such as Rubaya, allows the group to generate significant revenue—estimated at $800,000 monthly from coltan alone—by taxing miners and traders. This financial power bolsters their military capabilities and entrenches their presence in the region. The DRC government's efforts to counter the rebellion have placed immense strain on the national budget. Military expenditures have soared, with $1 billion spent on security in the first four months of 2025. To boost morale, salaries for military and police personnel have been doubled, costing an additional $500 million. Despite these investments, the army faces shortages of essential supplies, and many expenditures occur outside the official budget framework, highlighting systemic inefficiencies. International Response: Calls for De-escalation The international community has expressed growing concern over the escalating conflict. In February, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2773, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from DRC territory, and the dismantling of parallel state institutions established by M23. The United States is facilitating peace talks and negotiating a minerals deal with the DRC, contingent upon the withdrawal of M23 fighters and Rwandan troops from occupied territories. This agreement aims to grant U.S. companies access to the DRC's rich deposits of critical minerals in exchange for infrastructure investment and support in resolving the conflict. Both Kinshasa and Kigali have expressed cautious optimism about the potential for economic and regional cooperation. Looking Ahead: Prospects for Peace While diplomatic efforts are underway, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. The entanglement of ethnic tensions, resource competition, and regional politics necessitates a multifaceted approach: Inclusive Dialogue : Engaging all stakeholders, including local communities, in peace negotiations to address underlying grievances and foster reconciliation. Economic Reforms : Ensuring transparent and equitable management of mineral resources to prevent exploitation and fund development initiatives. Security Sector Reform : Strengthening the capacity and accountability of the Congolese armed forces to effectively maintain order and protect civilians. The international community's support will be crucial in facilitating these efforts and preventing further deterioration of the situation in eastern DRC. As the conflict continues to evolve, sustained attention and coordinated action are imperative to avert a deeper humanitarian catastrophe and to lay the groundwork for a stable and prosperous future for the region.

As the world grapples with economic volatility, global power shifts, and fractured alliances, a new form of conflict has emerged to shape the 21st-century geopolitical landscape: geoeconomic confrontation. Unlike the open warfare of the past, today’s great powers wield economic instruments as tools of coercion and influence, redrawing the contours of global relations without a single shot fired. This economic warfare is not merely a clash of trade policies but a deeply entrenched strategic contest. From tit-for-tat tariffs and sanctions to restrictions on critical technologies and raw materials, the economic battlefield is expanding across borders and industries with alarming speed. The Shift in Global Risk Perceptions According to the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2025, geoeconomic confrontation now ranks among the top 10 global risks over the next two years, a marked rise from 14th place previously. The scale of concern is reflected in the dramatic increase in harmful trade interventions, which surged from 600 in 2017 to over 3,000 annually from 2022 to 2024. The report warns of an "unprecedented degree of fragmentation in the global order," driven by eroding trust in institutions, fractured alliances, and the increasing use of economic tools as political weapons. United States: Tariffs, Nationalism, and Economic Pressure In 2025, the United States, under President Donald Trump’s second administration, has reasserted its protectionist economic vision. In a sweeping move, the administration imposed 25% tariffs on all imports from Mexico and most from Canada (excluding energy, which faced a 10% tariff). The U.S. framed the policy as a defence of domestic industry, but it swiftly sparked retaliatory tariffs and lawsuits at the World Trade Organization. More dramatically, a new 34% "reciprocal tariff" on most Chinese imports marked a major escalation in U.S.-China economic tensions. China’s countermeasures included retaliatory tariffs, blacklisting American companies, and restricting the export of rare-earth elements critical to the tech and defence industries. The fallout has rattled global markets, with business investment in the U.S. recording its sharpest six-month decline since the pandemic recovery period. Investors remain jittery amid rising costs, broken supply chains, and unpredictable policy shifts. China: Economic Retaliation and Realignment China has responded to U.S. aggression with a mix of assertiveness and strategy. It cut American oil imports by 90% and bolstered energy ties with Canada. Export controls on rare-earth metals—resources vital to semiconductors, batteries, and defence systems—sent shockwaves through tech industries worldwide. At the same time, Beijing is seeking to shore up regional alliances. New trade frameworks with South Korea and Japan signal China’s intent to reduce reliance on Western markets and reroute supply chains through Asia. While the moves offer Beijing a measure of resilience, they also raise the spectre of competing economic blocs. The European Union: Fragmented Unity, Strategic Dilemmas The European Union finds itself increasingly caught in the middle of global economic rivalries. The bloc’s response to Russia’s war in Ukraine continues to strain internal consensus, with countries like Hungary threatening to veto further sanctions. Amid this, the EU is seeking to bolster its economic sovereignty. Policy proposals to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar in cross-border payments and develop independent financial mechanisms reflect growing discomfort with Washington’s dominance. Yet the EU remains vulnerable. Efforts to sanction Russian energy, support Ukraine, and maintain a unified front against U.S. trade pressures are stretching the bloc’s political and economic cohesion. Global Impacts: Fragmentation and Uncertainty The global economy is feeling the ripple effects of these confrontations: Supply Chains Under Strain : Industries dependent on cross-border logistics—from electronics to automotive manufacturing—face higher costs and delays. Investment Paralysis : Heightened unpredictability deters foreign direct investment, with firms hesitant to commit capital in unstable regulatory environments. Technological Decoupling : Competing standards, export restrictions, and bans on dual-use technologies threaten to fragment the global innovation ecosystem. The International Monetary Fund has warned that if decoupling accelerates, long-term global GDP could shrink by up to 7%, with disproportionate impacts on developing economies. Navigating a Turbulent Future Governments, businesses, and multilateral institutions must act with foresight and adaptability. Strategies for resilience include: Diversifying Trade Partners and Supply Chains : To reduce dependency on single-source nations. Reinvigorating Global Institutions : WTO and IMF reforms could provide more equitable platforms for dispute resolution. Investing in Strategic Autonomy : National industries critical to energy, health, and digital security must be prioritised. As economic confrontation replaces conventional diplomacy, the world teeters on a knife-edge between strategic competition and systemic fragmentation. The next chapter of global order may not be written in treaties, but in tariffs.

Google’s unveiling of Veo 3 , its most advanced generative video model to date, signals a profound shift in how synthetic media will be created, consumed, and policed. Announced at Google I/O 2025, Veo 3 marks a major milestone in the race to produce high-quality, photorealistic videos directly from text prompts—at scale, with startling coherence and realism. While the technical feat is undeniably impressive, it also introduces complex questions around truth, trust, and the future of digital content. What Can Veo 3 Actually Do? Veo 3 is capable of generating high-resolution (1080p and above) videos  that feature longer sequences, dynamic camera movements, and stylistic control . Users can input detailed prompts—such as “a drone shot over a misty mountain range at sunrise” or “a surreal animation of floating cities in a purple sky”—and receive results that rival stock footage libraries. Google has emphasized that Veo handles physics-based motion, fluid dynamics, and temporal consistency  better than previous models. It also supports multiple cinematic styles, from realistic live-action to painterly animation. All of this is available via VideoFX , Google’s limited-access tool for testing Veo in creative workflows. Where Could Veo 3 Be Used? The implications for creative industries are vast. Veo 3 has immediate applications in: Advertising and Marketing : Generating campaign visuals or animations without the need for physical shoots. Education : Creating dynamic visual explanations for scientific or historical content. Independent Film and Animation : Empowering small studios or solo creators to generate scenes that were once cost-prohibitive. Stock Footage Replacement : Offering endless, on-demand footage for background visuals or B-roll. As the model evolves, we may see it integrated into YouTube workflows, presentation tools, and even consumer devices—putting powerful generative video at nearly everyone’s fingertips. The Misinformation Threat Yet, with such power comes serious risk. Veo 3—and generative video models like OpenAI's Sora and Runway Gen-2—can also be weaponised to create misleading or entirely fabricated content . While Google has embedded SynthID , an invisible watermarking system, to track and identify Veo’s outputs, not all platforms (or viewers) are equipped to detect or interpret these signals. Potential vectors for misuse include : Falsified news footage : Simulating war zones, protests, or natural disasters. Political propaganda : Creating videos that appear to show public figures in compromised or fabricated situations. Social engineering scams : Mimicking real environments to build fake authority or urgency. The average internet user may not be equipped to distinguish real from synthetic—especially when these videos are viewed casually on platforms like TikTok or Instagram. Unlike written misinformation, synthetic video bypasses rational analysis and appeals directly to visual credibility. 🧠 What Comes Next? We are entering an era where "seeing is believing" no longer applies . While Veo 3 represents a breakthrough in creative possibility, it also intensifies the arms race between synthetic media creation and detection. The responsibility doesn’t rest solely with Google. Platforms, regulators, educators, and everyday users must all adapt to this new visual landscape. Media literacy must evolve —not just to understand what AI can do, but to critically question what we’re watching. "Veo 3 may help people visualise their imagination. But if misused, it could help others manipulate ours."

“Behind every great fortune lies a great crime.” Honoré de Balzac We love a good billionaire origin story. From garages in Silicon Valley to Ivy League dorm rooms, the narrative goes like this: brilliance, hustle, and vision made it all happen. But let’s be honest, becoming a billionaire today is less about strategy and more about being lucky in a rigged system. It’s time we stopped mythologising billionaires and started questioning the system that enables them. Made With AI The Myth of Strategic Genius Popular culture tells us billionaires are master strategists. We’re supposed to admire Elon Musk’s risk-taking or Jeff Bezos’s long-term vision. But scratch beneath the surface and you’ll see a pattern: they weren’t just smart. They were absurdly lucky. For every tech founder who made it, thousands of equally smart people didn’t. What separated them wasn’t strategy; it was timing, connections, and family backing. Born Into Advantage Many billionaires didn’t start from scratch, they started from privilege. Whether it’s inherited wealth, elite education, or access to capital, they entered the game already ahead. Even so-called “self-made” billionaires like Kylie Jenner leveraged massive platforms others could only dream of. That’s not entrepreneurial grit, it’s economic jet fuel. Timing Is Everything Some people invested in crypto at the right time. Others launched startups during an economic boom. Timing is often the X-factor in billionaire stories, not visionary leadership or superhuman intelligence. If you launched Amazon in 2023 instead of 1995, would you be a billionaire today? Probably not. Survivorship Bias: The False Lesson We celebrate the few who made it and ignore the millions who didn’t. This is survivorship bias, and it warps our understanding of success. The odds of becoming a billionaire are astronomically small, and yet we treat these outliers as if they offer a roadmap. They don’t. They’re exceptions, not examples. Billionaires Aren’t Necessary No one works a billion times harder than a nurse, a teacher, or a delivery driver. Billionaire wealth is built not on labour, but on extraction, of underpaid work, under-taxed capital, and under-regulated markets. If we taxed extreme wealth fairly and reinvested it, we'd have stronger schools, safer cities, and a healthier economy. We don’t need billionaires, we need balance. Final Thought: It Was Mostly Luck Next time you hear a billionaire talk about their “grind,” remember: Yes, they worked hard. Yes, they made decisions. But they also got incredibly lucky, in a world that rewards capital over contribution. And that's not something to idolise. It's something to rethink.

As we reach the midpoint of 2025, it is increasingly evident that Hollywood is experiencing a crisis of identity and output. Once the undisputed leader in global film culture, the American film industry now finds itself struggling with declining box office numbers, a lack of audience engagement, and a wave of underperforming blockbusters. A series of high-profile films, including Disney's live-action Snow White, Warner Bros.' Mickey 17, and Marvel's Captain America: Brave New World, have failed to meet commercial and critical expectations. These projects were designed as major theatrical events intended to revitalise cinema attendance. Instead, their lacklustre performance has highlighted systemic issues within the industry. One of the most widely discussed explanations is franchise fatigue. For over a decade, the industry has leaned heavily on interconnected cinematic universes. While initially innovative, these strategies have become formulaic. Contemporary audiences are increasingly unresponsive to sequels and reboots that lack fresh perspectives or emotional depth. As a result, intellectual property has become a substitute for original storytelling rather than a foundation for it. Another contributing factor is the long-term shift in viewing habits brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The preference for at-home streaming has solidified, and audiences are more discerning about what motivates a trip to the cinema. Unless a film promises a truly compelling experience, many viewers are content to wait for digital releases. This consumer caution is reinforced by broader economic trends. Inflation and economic uncertainty have led to more deliberate spending. For many, the cost of a single cinema ticket does not compare favourably with the value of a monthly streaming subscription. If Hollywood cannot offer a qualitatively superior experience, audiences are unlikely to prioritise theatrical releases. Moreover, there is a growing concern that Hollywood has lost its creative courage. By prioritising financial predictability and international market appeal, studios have often sidelined artistic risk. This trend has resulted in content that feels increasingly homogenised and algorithm-driven, stripping films of the unique voice and vision that once defined great cinema. The impact of the 2023 writers' and actors' strikes also continues to reverberate. Production schedules were delayed, marketing plans disrupted, and audiences faced long gaps between major releases. In an attempt to compensate, studios rushed certain projects to completion, leading to a noticeable dip in quality. Nevertheless, not all is bleak. Unexpected successes like Sinners and A Minecraft Movie demonstrate that originality and innovation still resonate with audiences. These films succeeded not by mimicking trends but by offering something distinctive. Their achievements suggest that a return to more creative, less formulaic filmmaking could restore public enthusiasm. So what does this moment signify for the future of film? Hollywood is at a pivotal juncture. It must decide whether to continue down a path dominated by intellectual property and short-term returns or to invest in artistic risk and narrative experimentation. As streaming platforms proliferate and franchise fatigue deepens, there is an opening for a reimagining of cinema as a medium for complex, challenging, and emotionally resonant storytelling. The key lesson of 2025 is clear: visual spectacle is no longer sufficient. Audiences crave meaning, depth, and authenticity. If the film industry can rise to meet this demand, it has the potential to usher in a new era of cinematic relevance. The question is whether it is willing to take that leap.

First of all, let's start with what tokens are. Tokens are how an AI or computer program breaks up data into smaller bits or converts words into computer code that is easier for a computer to understand. For example, when an AI thinks of a word, it might not just think of that word directly; instead, it will associate it with something related. So, instead of just thinking of the word "pen," it might think of something like "the thing you write with," and only later use the word "pen" to convey its meaning. Drawbacks of Tokenization: Compromised Precision and Contextual Understanding The main reason this process of tokenization is necessary is to save computational power. The energy required for an AI like ChatGPT to generate a response is already quite high; it takes about 519 millilitres of water to produce a 100-word reply. It may take a liter or more of water to cool down the system. Without tokenization, generating responses would produce much more heat and consume significantly more power, making AI operations much more expensive and causing longer wait times for replies. Drawbacks of Tokenization: Compromised Precision and Contextual Understanding However, there are drawbacks to tokenization. It means that the AI no longer perceives a word as just a word; rather, it sees it as something related to that word. Consequently, it can't count how many times a particular letter appears in it. Think of it like trying to describe a picture in your head; you might miss some details that were clear to you at the time. This can result in the AI providing a response that’s not fully aligned with what it intended to say, making it seem as if it doesn't know the answer when, in fact, it might have a better answer in its "mind." Another problem is that when the AI is prevented from recognizing words as they are, it must still convert its thoughts into words. This process leads to the AI picking related words, sometimes leading to multiple valid options. The effects of temperature on AI This is where the concept of "temperature" comes into play. Temperature affects how the AI selects words; for example, a temperature of 1 means it will always pick the most likely word from its list, while a temperature of 0.7 would slightly increase the chances of selecting the top word but still allow for some randomness. This approach helps the AI sound less repetitive and more varied in its responses. This is also why you may get 2 different replies to the same input. The standard temperature used by AI systems, like DeepSeek and ChatGPT, is typically 0.7, but some AI designed to sound more human might use a lower temperature, such as 0.5, since human language can be quite unpredictable at times. Tokenization: Balancing Efficiency and Complexity in AI System s So, in conclusion, we use tokens to save on power and decrease the heat made when an AI makes a replay, but by doing so, we add new problems to the mix and solve some others. Tokenizing.

Stop crying your heart out,   Oasis is reuniting!  The moment fans have been dreaming of for 15 years, Liam and Noel Gallagher have put their differences aside to put on a show, touring the UK.  Talk Tonight?  Clearly, they finally did! Oasis's rise to fame started in 1991, in Manchester. Liam Gallagher was the singer, and Noel the guitarist and songwriter. Their album Definitely Maybe, released in 1994, became the fastest-selling debut in UK history at the time. This was then followed by (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, released in 1995, which included Wonderwall, Don’t Look Back in Anger, and Champagne Supernova, all now iconic songs. Alongside Blur, they became the face of Britpop. Oasis are unique because they symbolised 1990s working-class pride and British spirit through both their personalities and their music. They famously played to over 250,000 fans over two nights at Knebworth in 1996. Oasis eventually split in 2009 in Paris after Noel said that he "simply could not go on working with Liam." Both brothers moved on to solo careers, throwing jabs at each other in interviews and on social media. Once this iconic duo split, Noel Gallagher formed Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, which earned him successful solo albums. Liam Gallagher formed Beady Eye with other former Oasis bandmates and later released his own solo albums, As You Were and Why Me? Why Not. Liam often begged for Oasis to reunite, but Noel didn’t like the idea and said it was "not worth it." Both Gallagher brothers hinted at a reunion; for example, Liam aimed songs at Noel during live shows, and Noel hinted that "the door was never completely closed" in an interview in 2023. When Oasis finally confirmed the reunion, the initial announcement included a world tour, starting with major UK cities. However, there are rumours that they could headline Glastonbury, Reading, and Leeds. Noel and Liam are both involved, but Bonehead and Guigsy’s return hasn’t been confirmed. They have also hinted at making one or two new tracks to perform on the tour, but Noel has said that they want to "celebrate the old songs first." The main focus will be on Definitely Maybe and (What's the Story) Morning Glory?. In their interviews, it is clear that there is still tension between the two, but they are putting their differences aside for the fans and, most likely, the money. So even though they say they’ve made peace, I say we shouldn’t  put our lives in the hands of a rock ’n’ roll band  just yet. The Oasis reunion isn’t just another tour; it’s history, the revival of an era that shaped Britpop. Fans never thought they would see the day. However, I think we are all wondering: can the Gallagher brothers really stay civil? Maybe they will live forever … or at least long enough to play Wonderwall one more time.

If you know me, you know I love a good Marvel film.  So when news broke about the recent title change for the upcoming Thunderbolts movie, I had to dive into it.   Let’s talk about the marketing behind this move and why it has fans split. From Thunderbolts* to The New Avengers Originally, the film was listed with a temporary title: Thunderbolts, a name familiar to Marvel fans who know it represents a team of anti-heroes and morally grey characters.  But recently, the title was updated to The New Avengers, and yes, that asterisk was intentional.  It allowed Marvel to keep the placeholder flexible and change it later.  Now, it’s been changed, and people have noticed. A smart marketing move? Personally, I think this was a clever marketing strategy.  By dropping such a loaded title change, Marvel ensured that people would be talking, and they are. This shift has sparked online conversation, speculation, and fan theories.  The name “The New Avengers” instantly brings weight, suggesting a new chapter and possibly a merging of characters from different corners of the MCU.  It builds excitement and keeps the buzz going. Or a spoiler too soon? However, not everyone is thrilled.  Some fans feel the title gives away too much and spoils what could have been a major reveal in the film.  If you’re someone who avoids trailers and rumours to go into a movie fresh, this kind of update might feel like it ruins the surprise. My take While I get why spoiler-averse fans are frustrated,  I also think the backlash might be a little overblown.  The title change suggests a direction but doesn’t necessarily give away the how or why. In a cinematic universe this complex, a name alone rarely tells the full story. In the end, I’d call this a bold and calculated move by Marvel, one that got people talking, and that’s what great marketing often aims to do. What do you think? Was this a smart strategy or a spoiler misstep?

Rating: 7.5/10 – A strong post-Mania outing with memorable moments and well-executed storytelling Copyright WWE WWE Backlash 2025 came live from the Enterprise Centre in St. Louis, Missouri, and it delivered a night full of solid wrestling, intriguing developments, and a few genuine surprises. While not every bout was a show-stealer, the overall presentation and narrative progression made for an enjoyable evening. Let’s break it down in match card order. United States Championship Fatal 4-Way: Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Damian Priest vs. Drew McIntyre vs. LA Knight The perfect choice to open the show - fast-paced, high-energy, and dripping with tension. Each competitor brought something unique: Drew’s brute force, Priest’s unpredictability, LA Knight’s charisma, and Fatu’s raw dominance. This match didn’t just entertain - it moved storylines forward beautifully. The real headline was the surprise debut of Jeff Cobb, who intervened to help Fatu retain his title, seemingly under orders from Solo Sikoa. What made the moment particularly compelling was Fatu’s visible confusion—he clearly hadn’t been clued in on the plan, and it sets up fascinating internal tension within this Bloodline 2.0 which was absolutely needed particularly with the injuries to Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa. A thrilling way to start the night and a great bit of storytelling. Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch Match of the night, no question. This was the moment Lyra Valkyria needed, and she delivered in spades. Becky was superb in the veteran role, pushing Lyra to her limits, while Lyra finally got to showcase her full potential on a major stage. The in-ring storytelling was layered and emotionally charged, with well-timed false finishes and a clear narrative arc of the underdog stepping up. This didn’t just get Lyra over with the fans - it got her over with me. A star-making performance, and a brilliant match from start to finish. Intercontinental Championship: “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Penta This was good, but not their best. The action was crisp and engaging, and both men put in a solid shift, but it didn’t quite match the level of their previous clash on RAW, which still stands as their strongest effort to date. Still, it served its purpose in advancing the ongoing story. JD McDonagh’s presence added tension, and Dom retained in typical fashion, keeping his heel momentum rolling. Not a show-stealer, but a decent middle-of-the-card contest. Gunther vs. Pat McAfee This turned out far better than I anticipated. I expected a semi-competitive match that would risk diluting Gunther’s aura, but instead, we got a masterclass squash. Gunther dominated, as he should, but Pat McAfee played his part to perfection and even got a few hope spots, even if they were quickly put back down again by the Ring General. There was just enough drama to give fans a sliver of hope, without ever truly threatening Gunther’s dominance. It protected both men—Gunther remained a beast, and McAfee left with his credibility intact thanks to his resilience and the crowd’s support. A brilliant bit of booking. Main Event – Undisputed WWE Championship: John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton This was a classic - everything a final chapter between two legends should be. Cena and Orton crafted a bout steeped in nostalgia, packed with callbacks to their many battles over the years. The pacing was deliberate, the crowd was hot, and every near-fall had weight. Orton, performing in his hometown, gave it everything. Cena matched him step for step. The late interference from R-Truth was a fun call back to the previous Smackdown's where Truth had said he wanted to help his childhood hero, and most importantly,y didn’t take anything away from this spectacle. If this really was their last encounter, it was a fitting and emotional conclusion to one of WWE’s greatest rivalries. Backlash 2025 may not be remembered as an all-time classic, but it absolutely delivered where it needed to. It elevated new stars, progressed key storylines, and gave fans plenty to talk about. With standout performances from Lyra Valkyria, the surprise debut of Jeff Cobb, and the powerful send-off for Cena vs. Orton, it was a well-rounded and thoroughly enjoyable event. A strong 7.5 out of 10, and a reminder that Backlash can still feel like a big deal when booked right.

In an age of rapid technological advancement, surveillance is no longer a passive act. Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology has moved from science fiction into the heart of modern policing and commercial security systems. Able to scan faces in real time and match them to watchlists within seconds, it promises efficiency, safety, and even crime prevention. But with these promises come serious questions about legality, accuracy, ethics, and trust. As this technology continues to spread across public streets and private retail spaces alike, we must ask: is LFR ready for widespread use, or is it running ahead of the safeguards designed to protect our rights? What is Live Facial Recognition? Live Facial Recognition (LFR) is a biometric surveillance tool that uses real-time video feeds to detect and identify faces. Unlike static facial recognition, which analyses images after an event has occurred, LFR operates live. Cameras scan crowds, extract facial features, and compare them to a database of preloaded images. If the system detects a potential match, it alerts a human operator to intervene or investigate. LFR is being trialled and used by several police forces in the UK, including the Metropolitan Police and South Wales Police. Retailers, stadiums, and event organisers are also deploying the technology in an attempt to identify shoplifters or detect banned individuals before trouble starts. How Does It Work? A Closer Look LFR involves several distinct technical steps. At its core, it is powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms trained on vast datasets of facial images. The process typically unfolds as follows: Face Detection First, the system identifies a face within a video frame. This step uses computer vision models to detect facial structures such as the eyes, nose, and jawline. This is not identification yet; it is simply recognising that a face is present. Alignment and Normalisation Once detected, the system adjusts the face to account for differences in head tilt, lighting, or distance. This is known as normalisation. The aim is to ensure that all faces are processed in a similar format so that they can be compared reliably. Feature Extraction The system then uses a deep learning model, often a convolutional neural network, to extract features from the face. These are translated into a biometric template, a mathematical vector that represents the unique aspects of that person’s face. Matching This template is then compared against a watchlist. The system calculates a similarity score between the live face and each entry in the database. If the score passes a predefined threshold, the system flags it as a match. A human operator is usually involved at this stage to confirm or reject the result. This entire process happens in seconds, enabling real-time surveillance across public or private spaces. The Case For LFR Proponents argue that LFR is a valuable tool for modern policing. It can identify wanted criminals, locate missing persons, and even prevent terrorist acts before they happen. In retail settings, it promises to reduce shoplifting and protect staff from repeat offenders. Unlike traditional methods, it allows for rapid identification without the need for physical interaction or delays. The technology also allows for more efficient use of resources. Officers can be directed to individuals flagged by the system, rather than relying solely on observation or tip-offs. In theory, this reduces the burden on police and enhances public safety. The Case Against LFR Despite its promise, LFR is far from perfect. One of the main concerns is accuracy . Studies have shown that LFR systems are more likely to produce false positives for people with darker skin tones and for women. These errors are not trivial. A mistaken identity can result in an innocent person being stopped, searched, or even arrested. There is also the issue of bias in training data . If an algorithm has been trained primarily on certain demographics, it will perform less effectively on others. In real-world conditions, such as low lighting or crowd movement, these problems can become even more pronounced. Beyond technical flaws, legal and ethical questions loom large . In the United Kingdom, there is currently no specific law governing the use of LFR. Its deployment relies on a complex mesh of data protection laws, human rights principles, and operational guidance. Critics argue that this legal uncertainty leaves too much room for misuse. A 2020 Court of Appeal ruling found South Wales Police’s use of LFR to be unlawful, citing insufficient safeguards, inadequate impact assessments, and the risk of discriminatory practices. The ruling did not ban the technology outright but signalled that current uses are walking a legal tightrope. Potential Misuse and the Chilling Effect One of the most troubling aspects of LFR is its capacity for mass surveillance . By scanning every face in a crowd, it treats everyone as a potential suspect. This blanket approach has been described as disproportionate and invasive by privacy groups such as Big Brother Watch and Liberty. There is also the risk of function creep . A system introduced to identify serious offenders could, over time, be expanded to monitor protests, track political activists, or even control access to public spaces based on social or behavioural metrics. Furthermore, the use of LFR by private companies raises concerns about data ownership and accountability . Retailers may share watchlists across multiple sites or even with law enforcement, all without the consent or knowledge of the individuals being scanned. This could lead to people being unfairly banned, blacklisted, or targeted, based on secretive and unchallengeable criteria. Is It Fit for Purpose? At present, the evidence suggests that Live Facial Recognition technology is not ready for widespread deployment. While it offers considerable potential, its use is outpacing the development of ethical, legal, and technical safeguards. In its current state, LFR is more likely to erode public trust than to enhance security. Without robust legislation, transparent oversight, and significant improvements in accuracy and fairness, LFR risks doing more harm than good. Surveillance should not come at the cost of civil liberties or human dignity. As with all powerful technologies, its benefits must be balanced against the risks, and right now, that balance appears off. LFR is a powerful tool with a fragile foundation. Its strengths lie in speed and scale, but its weaknesses—bias, error, and lack of transparency—cast a long shadow. Until these flaws are addressed, caution must guide its use. In the race to embrace smart surveillance, we must not forget the human rights and democratic values that underpin our society. Watching the watchers may be just as important as watching the streets. Images provided by Leonardo AI

Let’s be blunt: Trump’s back, and he’s at it again.  This time, the world's loudest ego has aimed his firehose of bluster at - wait for it - the film industry . Yes, the man who once appeared in "Home Alone 2" for a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo now believes he’s the saviour of American cinema. His brilliant plan? A 100% tariff on all foreign-made movies . Image created on Leonardo AI From where I sit here in the UK, knee-deep in actual film production work, this idea isn’t just bonkers - it’s catastrophic . For the global film ecosystem, for creative freedom, and, ironically, for the very American workers Trump claims to protect. Britain’s Booming Film Industry? Consider It Gutted The UK has spent decades building a reputation as a world-class production hub. Studios like Pinewood and Leavesden are not just film sets - they’re economic engines. Hollywood giants come here for our talent, locations, tax breaks, and yes, our tea. It's a beautiful partnership. Trump’s tariffs threaten to destroy that. A 100% levy on films made abroad? That turns a financially smart decision - filming in the UK - into a fiscal nightmare for American studios. Why pay double to shoot here when you can stay in Georgia or New Mexico, even if it means compromising creative vision? The knock-on effect? Job losses. From camera operators and costume designers to local vendors and VFX artists, thousands of British workers could lose gigs overnight - all thanks to a man who thinks trade policy is a blunt instrument to be swung like a golf club. The Irony of “America First” Trump says he wants to bring jobs home. But in reality, he's undercutting the very global partnerships  that sustain the U.S. industry. Hollywood doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It thrives on international collaboration. You can’t “America First” a Marvel movie when half the VFX are done in London, the score’s recorded in Prague, and you’re shooting in the Scottish Highlands because Los Angeles doesn’t have castles. And let's not forget: foreign markets are keeping Hollywood alive . China, the UK, South Korea, Germany - all contribute billions in box office revenue. Piss off your partners with idiotic tariffs, and don’t be surprised when they stop importing your movies. Creativity Shouldn’t Be Nationalised Filmmaking is, at its core, a borderless art. It’s the alchemy of cultures, influences, and shared storytelling. Trying to dictate where stories can be told - under the guise of “economic patriotism” - is creative suffocation. Imagine telling Denis Villeneuve he can’t shoot in Budapest, or Greta Gerwig she must ditch that Parisian dream sequence. Art doesn't respond well to artificial walls. A Final Word from Across the Pond To my American friends in the industry: we stand with you. We know this isn’t your doing. But we also urge you to speak up, loudly. Because if Trump’s tariffs become reality, it’s not just the UK that suffers - it’s all of us. Audiences will get fewer films. Creators will face tighter constraints. And the film industry, once a shining example of international cooperation, will be reduced to another casualty of one man’s nationalist fantasy. Call it what it is: protectionism wrapped in paranoia. And the world deserves better.