‘Stranger Things’ Star Shannon Purser Got an Unexpected Barb Shout-Out from Her Starbucks Barista

Stranger Things season 2 more than lived up to the hype of the first season, even making sure that while beloved character Barb was still gone, she was anything but forgotten. Shannon Purser, who played the nerdy fan favorite, is still feeling the love from fans, and recently got an unexpected shout-out with her morning coffee.

On Wednesday, Purser shared a photo of her Starbucks coffee cup, which had a special message where the barista would normally write the customer’s name for a drink order. “Barb deserved better,” the barista — and, obviously, big fan — wrote.

Barb, as you may remember from season 1, was pulled into the Upside Down by the Demogorgon after being left behind by Nancy at Steve’s party. She never returned. Some fans felt that her character was too easily killed off and forgotten, and while season 2 was very much steeped in Barb’s memory, even giving her a proper funeral in the finale, it’s clear that people still aren’t over the heartbreak.

Purser included a simple “thanks guys” along with her photo of the note. An apparent employee had earlier tweeted excitedly about Purser’s presence in the store, saying, “Shannon Purser is just quietly sitting in my Starbucks and she’s beautiful and I am so happy and also crying in the back room I think I’m dead.” The same account also later replied to Purser, telling her “ur welcome” for the support. Too cute!

Do you still miss Barb in Stranger Things? Let us know @BritandCo!

(photos via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images + Curtis Baker/Netflix)

Following in the footsteps of Spider-Man: No Way Home and Dr. Strange: Multiverse of Madness, literally EVERYONE obsessed over the cast for Deadpool 3 (officially titled Deadpool & Wolverine). Rumors were circulating for quite awhile about names like Channing Tatum, Elizabeth Olsen, and Taron Egerton making cameos in the new Marvel movie, but there's one potential casting that had Twitter going crazy: Taylor Swift.

Thanks to Harry Styles' appearance in Eternals, the popstar to superhero pipeline is something we know all too well. Even though the popstar didn't end up making an appearance, we were even happier to see (or rather, hear) Blake Lively in the movie!

Here's the latest news on Deadpool & Wolverine — AND Blake Lively's involvement in the movie.

Is Blake Lively Lady Deadpool?

Blake Lively/Instagram

Yes! Blake Lively makes a cameo as the masked Lady Deadpool, while Inez Reynolds appears as Kid Pool and Olin Reynolds makes their onscreen debut as Baby Pool. But Blake doesn't only act in the movie — she also ended up helping behind the scenes! Director Shawn Levy revealed that a note from Blake about the Deadpool 3 ending ended up changing the movie.

“Credit where credit is due. It used to be that there was no suspense, that the power room blew up, and our heroes had survived,” Shawn told Games Radar. “It was Blake Lively who said to us, ‘You know, I’ve been with you this whole movie. I want to sit in the fear that they’re lost. Let me be in that place of suspense so the triumph of their survival is more emotional and visceral.’”

“We did just a day-and-a-half of reshoots on the movie, which we’re very proud of," Ryan Reynolds adds. "These kinds of movies typically involve weeks of reshoots. But this speech that Matthew has is one of the pieces that we reshot. And he is miraculous.”

20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios

In an Instagram post celebrating Deadpool & Wolverine, Blake Lively revealed the first time Ryan Reynolds told her about "meta" superhero Deadpool was when they were working on The Green Lantern.

"We understood in theory, but how it would come together for an audience was murky, for everyone but [Ryan]. It wasn’t a real dream. The movie was never gonna happen," she says. "Just before all this in 2010, [Rob Liefeld] drew an unmasked Lady Deadpool for the first time." Lady Deadpool is an alternate universe's version of the famed superhero.

"12 years later I read Rob’s post," she continues. "A year after that, @deadpoolmovie 3 was filmed...The universe has such a magical sense of humor sometimes."

Some fans immediately jumped to the conclusion Blake is in the new Deadpool movie, especially after she rocked a Lady Deadpool-esque 'fit + high pony to the premiere alongside BFF Gigi Hadid.

Is Deadpool and Wolverine streaming?

Marvel Studios/Disney

Yes, you can rent Deadpool & Wolverine on platforms like Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime! There's nothing like fighting the universe's biggest and baddest in the comfort of your own home.

Is Taylor Swift in Deadpool 3?

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images for dcp

No, Taylor Swift is not in Deadpool 3. But this dazzlingfan art will have to tide us over until she decides to make an appearance!

In a new interview with Fandango, Ryan Reynolds addressed the cameo rumors...kind of. “There’s so much speculation about so many people that might end up in the film,” Ryan says. “I saw one that was convinced that Elvis is in the movie. Anything can happen and that’s sort of what I love about this universe. Surprises are the essence of Deadpool.”

The rumor that Taylor Swift will appear as Dazzler (which has been on the internet since Taylor tooka picture with the cast and crew of 2016's X-Men: Apocalypse) gained traction after a video from The DisInsider. The mutant, a singer who can turn sound into light, has been one of MCU boss Kevin Feige's favorites for a long time.

"Many years ago I asked Kevin Feige if he were to ever direct his own Marvel movie, which character would he want to focus on," Fandago's Eric Davis tweeted. "He said Dazzler. He’s a big fan."

In addition to manipulating sound and light, Dazzler (whose real name, Alison, also happens to be Taylor's middle name) can also create holograms. "The louder the source, the more powerful the output," says Marvel's official site. "She can also shoot bursts of light out of her fingers, hands, eyes, and other parts."

Not only would the character's popstar similarities make sense, but Taylor is also good friends with Ryan Reynolds and his wife Blake Lively. Their kids have been included in Taylor's music (like the intro to Reputation's "Gorgeous" and the names of folklore's fictional characters). Ryan lent Taylor his Deadpool suit for Halloween and both the Deadpool 3 announcement and All Too Well: The Short Film were filmed in Ryan and Blake's house.

On February 16, the official Australian Marvel Entertainment account posted a photo of some Deadpool and Wolverine friendship bracelets, in addition to a rainbow bracelet confirming the July 25 release date. "Besties," the caption reads. Considering Taylor Swift's Eras Tour has become known for friendship bracelets, and she was in Australia at the time.

Who's in the Deadpool & Wolverine cast?

Marvel Studios/Disney

In addition to Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, we'll see Morena Baccarin as Vanessa, Stefan Kapičić as Colossus, Brianna Hildebrand as Warhead, Shioli Kutsuna as Yukio, Owen Wilson as Mobius (who became a fan favorite after Loki), as well as Succession's Matthew Macfadyen and The Crown's Emma Corrin.

As far as cameos, Deadpool & Wolverine did not disappoint! We also see Jennifer Garner as Elektra from 2003's Daredevil and 2005's Elektra, Chris Evans as the original Fantastic 4's Johnny Storm, Wesley Snipes as Blade, and Dafne Keen as Laura/X-23 from Logan. Channing Tatum also appears as Gambit.

What's the Deadpool 3 release date?

Marvel Studios/Disney

Deadpool 3 hits theaters July 26, 2024. The movie was originally scheduled for May 3, 2024, but because of the strikes happening in Hollywood, it became one of many delayed movies.

What is Deadpool & Wolverine about?

Marvel Studios/Disney

Ryan Reynolds announced Deadpool & Wolverine with a hilarious Instagram post on September 27, 2022. "[Deadpool's] first appearance in the MCU obviously needs to feel special," he says in the video. (The first Deadpool was distributed by 20th Century Fox). "We need to stay true to the character." He goes on to joke that despite all his brainstorming, he has no ideas for the film — except bringing back Hugh Jackman as Wolverine.

"Hey Hugh," Ryan says as Hugh crosses the background of the video. "You want to play Wolverine one more time?"

"Yeah, sure Ryan," Hugh responds.

The announcement immediately started trending on social media (Ryan's original post currently has 3.8M likes), and while we don't have many official plot details yet (Marvel loves to keep their surprises, well, surprising), we do know that time travel will play a role.

Watch the hilarious, gory, and unhinged Deadpool 3 trailer here! The movie brings the classic funny-yet-gory story we've come to expect from Ryan Reynolds, but it also introduces newer MCU details like the TVA from Loki and the next chapter of superheroes thanks to Wolverine! We haven't seen the X-Men in the MCU before and I cannot wait to see how they make their mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Is there a Wolverine variant in Deadpool & Wolverine?

Marvel Studios/Disney

Yes, Deadpool 3 shows us multiple Wolverines — not just Hugh Jackman's version. We also see Henry Cavill! After the introduction of the TVA, the multiverse, and series like What If? (not to mention Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness giving us John Krasinski as Mr. Fantastic!!), literally anything is possible when it comes to casting in the MCU these days.

Is Deadpool's girlfriend alive in Deadpool 3?

Marvel Studios/Disney

Yes, it appears that Vanessa is alive in Deadpool 3what?! Turns out, Wade used a time device (with a little help from Warhead and Yukio) to go back and save her before she met her untimely end. However, it looks like that one decision gets him trouble with the Time Variance Authority (TVA). TBH, he shouldn't be surprised. They don't mess around.

Why is Deadpool 3 part of the MCU?

Joe Lederer/Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation/IMDb

After Disney acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019, characters like the X-Men, Deadpool, and the Fantastic Four joined the MCU. Hugh Jackman's involvement in Deadpool 3 marks Wolverine's introduction to the MCU. And we finally got official word that our Fantastic Four will be played by The Last of Us star Pedro Pascal, The Crown's Vanessa Kirby, Stranger Things' Joseph Quinn, and The Bear's Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Talk about a star-studded cast!

Are you excited about the cast for Deadpool 3? Let us know in the comments and check out the rest of this year's Summer Movies!

This post has been updated.

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson are currently filming the upcomingA24 film, The Drama, and it's a pair I didn't know I needed! I'm so pumped to see the two of them front and center in the new movie, and not just because the Massachusetts location is giving MAJOR New England autumn vibes. The actors have been spotted walking around the city, hanging out outside an art museum, and even getting into a road rage altercation? Yeah, that definitely sounds like drama to me.

Keep reading for every little detail you need to know about Robert Pattinson and Zendaya's new A24 movie The Drama.

What movie is Robert Pattinson and Zendaya in together?

Brendon Thorne / Getty Images

The Drama Plot

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson's The Drama comes from the mind of Kristoffer Borgli, who most recently directed Dream Scenario starring Nicholas Cage. Borgli is slated to work alongside Ari Aster and Lars Knudsen’s production company Square Peg for the film, so I'm sure it'll be just as thought-provoking and thrilling as some of the other projects they’ve produced (Midsommar, Beau is Afraid, Death of a Unicorn).

Jeff Spicer / Getty Images for Warner Bros.

Given Zendaya and Pattinson’s respective star power, I know this upcoming A24 project is going to be absolutely stunning. Even though we don't have any specific plot details yet, Deadline reported that The Drama tells the story of a couple whose romance takes a (you guessed it) dramatic turn right before their “big day.” Tell me more!!

One thing we do know is that a scene will apparently feature Zendaya's character getting into an altercation with a car while on a walk. The actress went viral for throwing a drink at a passing car, and she's so convincing, one TikTok user said "help i thought this was real for a second i was like omg what is going on."

Who else is in The Drama movie cast?

Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

The Drama Cast

In addition to Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, we'll see Mamoudou Athie and Alana Haim. Stay tuned for more cast updates.

What else has Zendaya been up to?

Clive Brunskill / Getty Images

Zendaya currently boasts two Emmys from her work in HBO’sEuphoria and has only continued to exhibit her talents in recent feature titles like Dune: Part Two and Challengers. Plus she's finally reuniting with BF Tom Holland in Spider-Man 4and Christopher Nolan's brand new film. Busy gal!

What about Rob?

Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images for CinemaCon

Of course, we all know and love Pattinson for his role as Edward in the Twilight movies, but he’s positioned himself as a truly versatile actor with roles in 2022’s The Batman and Bong Joon Ho’s upcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17.

Mike Coppola / Getty Images, Francois Durand / Getty Images

The two stars are still in early talks about starring in the film, but Deadline has confirmed that The Drama is a “top priority” at A24 given the success with 2023’s Dream Scenario. And, like, DUH!

Loving this news on Zendaya's The Drama? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news in movies, TV, and pop culture!

This post has been updated.

If you know me, you know I'm a die hard Outer Banks season 1 fan. I binge watched the entire thing with my family in 2020 while quarantining on the real OBX, I joined the Drew Starkey fan club the moment he stepped onscreen, and I was obsessed with JJ and Kiara way before the internet started shipping them. So, needless to say, I waited for Outer Banks season 4 with baited breath — especially when I heard rumors it would focus on JJ (Rudy Pankow) the way previous seasons had focused on John B. (Chase Stokes) in season 1, Pope (Jonathan Daviss) in season 2, and Kiara (Madison Bailey) in season 3.

I think season 1 will always be my favorite, but Outer Banks season 4 pleasantly surprised me. We're far enough into the show that we really care about the characters, and they have enough history with one another that we're invested in their decisions. Plus, returning to the OBX provided real-world stakes I could relate to as a viewer: family drama, dealing with bullies, and more. No matter whether you really love JJ, or you're always dreaming about your next beach vacation, here's whyOuter Banks season 4 absolutely NEEDS to be your weekend binge. (Serious spoilers ahead!!!)

Here's a full Outer Banks season 4 recap of every shocking detail you missed the first time around.

  • Outer Banks season 4 finally brings the cast back to the OBX.
  • John B., Sarah, Cleo, Pope, Kiara, and JJ are up against the Kooks — and other treasure hunters.
  • Season 4 feels more grounded and relatable than past seasons, making it a very strong installment.

​We're Back On The Outer Banks!

Netflix

FINALLY! After a couple of seasons in the Caribbean and South America, Outer Banks is back, well, on the Outer Banks. Honestly, this automatically makes the season better because it provides a ton of familiarity, nostalgia, and comfort for readers. And it also provides a realistic, grounded aspect to the adventure. Because let's be honest, a group of teens hopping on a tiny plane and taking part in a jungle treasure hunt requires a little too much suspension of disbelief for me. Plus, just like Gossip Girl wouldn't be the same without Blair and Serena hitting up Bergdorf's, a Pogue beach & surfing day just feels right.

​The Pogues Open Their Own Bait, Tackle, & Deep Sea Charter Business

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

The first episode of Outer Banks season 4 catches us up on that season 3 time jump. After learning how much money they actually have their hands on, the Pogues move into JJ's old house (renaming it "Poguelandia 2.0"), and open a bait, tackle, and charter shop. While I have a few questions about how six teens literally built a business without the help of a contractor, I love seeing this group lead regular lives. The shop plays into their strengths and allows them to cultivate their relationships in normal settings instead of life-or-death ones. Friendships are made in those boring moments, IMO.

​The Group Is Searching For More Than Blackbeard's Treasure

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After Outer Banks season 3, the one thing I said I didn't want the show to do was go into supernatural, ghost territory. And for a moment, I thought that's where we were going. Wes Genrette and his son-in-law Chandler Groff hire the Pogues to find Blackbeard's treasure, but it doesn't take long for them to realize they're in over their heads (again).

Wes is a direct descendent of Francis Genrette, the man responsible for killing Blackbeard and his wife Elizabeth. Now, Elizabeth haunts every generation of the Genrette family, and once she appears, you don't have long to live. Wes reveals his daughter Larissa (Chandler's late wife) saw Elizabeth a week before she died, and Wes himself has seen her, which means his days are numbered.

At the end of part 1, the Pogues are on a mission to find Elizabeth's amulet & break the curse, which also puts them on track to find the Blue Crown. Their race against Lightner and Dalia brings Pope, Cleo, Sarah, and John B. to Charleston — and leavesPope and Sarah trapped in a crypt as it slowly floods.

Turns out, Chandler Groff was behind the ghost murders the whole time, something Shoupe should have clocked a long time ago.

​John B., JJ, And Their Friends Have A Beach Day Run-In With The Kooks

Netflix

Because so much of Outer Banks season 4 takes place on the OBX, it means John B., Sarah, JJ, Kie, Pope, and Cleo are once again clashing with Topper, Rafe, and the rest of the Kooks. Despite the fact this season features plenty of death-defying stunts, the scene that will stick with me the most is when the Pogues and Kooks wind up at the same beach access.

I audibly gasped when Ruthie, Topper's new girlfriend, plays chicken with the Pogues on the beach, almost hitting Kiara with her Jeep and running over a turtle hatch in the process. (IRL, protecting endangered sea turtles & their hatches are a big deal on the Outer Banks, so this definitely got a visceral reaction from me).

At the end of the day, the major (and arguably, the most painful) conflict of this teen drama is how the Kooks make the Pogues feel like they don't belong anywhere. And if you ask me, exploring this tension and these relationships is where the show truly shines.

Lightener Is Determined To Take Out The Pogues

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

That being said, I found the villains this season, Lightner and Dalia, to be way scarier than I expected — especially once Lightner killed Terrance and almost killed Cleo. Every time he showed up onscreen, my heart started pounding like he was chasing me! The thought of being stuck in my bait shop alone with a creepy guy, especially one brandishing a knife? Thank you, next.

​Luke Returned To The Outer Banks

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After JJ & Kiara said goodbye to JJ's dad Luke in Outer Banks season 2, he's been totally off the grid. Except, apparently, he hasn't? JJ learns Luke is back when he visits Barracuda Mike, but the father-son bonding quickly takes a turn for the crazy when Luke drops a piece of news that changes everything: he isn't JJ's biological father. Chandler Groff is.

JJ Has Actually Been A Kook This Whole Time

Netflix

JJ's entire character is based around the fact he's proud to be a Pogue. He hates the Kooks and everything they stand for, which is why when Luke reveals he isn't JJ's biological father, and that JJ is related to the Groff/Genrette clan, it totally sends JJ into orbit.

JJ Destroys Downtown

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

And by "sends JJ into orbit," I mean he literally destroys downtown Kildare...with a baseball bat (okay Steve Harrington!).

This Kook identity is something JJ's been running from the entire series — even before Kie had to reassure him that finding the gold didn't make them Kooks — and he's going to have to do some serious soul searching to figure out who he actually is now.

I was wholly sold on the theory Outer Banks 4 would reveal JJ and Sarah were siblings, but this is a pretty good alternative. And who knows? Maybe they're actually cousins.

​Powers At Be Want To Bulldoze The Cut

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

If this show has proven anything, it's that the OBX is far from paradise. This season, some big names are trying to turn The Cut — including Poguelandia 2.0 — into an extension of the wealthier Figure Eight. Things get even more complicated when Hollis, who worked with Ward before he died, wants to trick Rafe into being her financial partner...and then gets his girlfriend Sofia to convince him to sign her contract.

Rafe Proposes To Sofia...And Then Breaks Up With Her

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

It doesn't take long for Rafe to learn Hollis tricked him. And despite proclaiming his love for Sofia, proposing, and telling her nothing could get in the way of their relationship, Rafe breaks up with her and kicks her out of his home the second he finds out she conned him. Messy, messy.

The one silver lining is that it sends Rafe back to Sarah and her friends! Is he finally turning into the kind and protective older brother fans want him to be?

Sarah Learns She's Pregnant

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After she starts feeling sick, Sarah takes a pregnancy test that comes back positive...and Kiara immediately finds out. Despite the fact adding a baby to the Outer Banks dynamic is a wild concept, this is exactly the kind of domestic, sweet ending I would have hoped for Sarah and John B. And Kiara's statement that Sarah's going to be an amazing mom? I couldn't agree more.

The Pogues Head To Morocco

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Remember how excited I was for the Pogues to return to the Outer Banks? Well, that doesn't last long because in the final episode of Outer Banks season 4, the group heads to Morocco to find the Blue Crown. It's definitely not smooth sailing, but I really love seeing John B. and Sarah, Pope and Cleo, and JJ and Kiara work in their pairs.

​Rafe Begins His Redemption Arc

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Drew Starkey admitted after season 1 that he didn't care whether Rafe got a redemption arc, and I agreed at the time. I found the idea of Rafe, who was so driven to please his father he'd literally murder for him, incredibly compelling. Plus, he's been the ringleader of the War on Pogues this whole time, so suddenly making him sympathetic towards them felt like backtracking on his character.

Rafe still has his moments (like saying he'd never date a Pogue after finding out Sofia was from The Cut), but now that him and Sarah are finally moving towards reconciling, it seems like we could actually be getting a Rafe redemption after all. But that doesn't mean I want Kiara and Rafe to get together. Let's keep things platonic people!!

JJ Dies In Kiara's Arms

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

If you're a fan of OBX, or you've been on the internet at all over the last week, then you already know where this is going. After the group splits up, it's total chaos. Pope ends up killing Lightener after Cleo's wounded, while JJ finds the Blue Crown.

When Chandler Groff threatens Kiara, JJ gives up the treasure in exchange for Kie — and Chandler kills him for no reason anyway. Fans went wild over the season 4 ending, and more than one told me they were heartbroken. Outer Banks will never be the same, that's for sure.

"Revenge"

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After they bury JJ's body, the group gathers around a campfire and acknowledges that if any of them had died, JJ wouldn't rest until they were avenged. Kiara stands up, looks into the fire, and mutters "revenge" before the screen cuts to black.

Season 5 is going to be one wild ride, because based on Kiara's pure, white hot anger, and Rafe's love of all things vengeful, I can only imagine what kind of havoc this group is going to wreak on Chandler Groff.

What did you think about Outer Banks season 4? Check out why This Heartbreaking Outer Banks 5 Theory Makes THAT Death Even More Emotional.

This post has been updated.

If you grew up on fantasy books, you’ve probably dreamed of taking classes at Hogwarts and escaping to Narnia more times than you can count. But for the niche group of The Magic Faraway Tree readers who wish they could visit the Land of Birthdays in real life, living out your fantasies isn’t such a faraway concept anymore — Enid Blyton’s classic British children’s series is officially being adapted for the big screen!

The Magic Faraway Tree is an upcoming family adventure film about three children who climb a magical tree, meet the wonderful creatures who live inside, and travel to fantastical lands. It’s the kind of movie that will give you alllll the nostalgic feels even if you didn’t grow up on the books (though its absolutely stacked cast probably did!). The film is currently in production, with principal photography having started in June.

Here’s everything we know so far about The Magic Faraway Tree movie.

Your First Look At Nicola Coughlan In 'The Magic Faraway Tree'

Parisa Taghizadeh/Courtesy of Neal Street Productions and Elysian Film Group

Nicola Coughlan is in her fairy era, and this first look at Nicola as Silky in The Magic Faraway Tree is just as, well, magical as I hoped. Just a glimpse of her long blonde hair and those stunning eyes pique my curiosity. And TBH, where Nicola leads, I follow.

What is the main plot of The Magic Faraway Tree?

Amazon

The Magic Faraway Tree Plot

When the Thompson family moves to the English countryside, the three children — Joe, Beth, and Frannie — “discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents, including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot, and Saucepan Man," according to Variety. When they reach the top of the tree, the children "are transported to spectacular and fantastical lands and, through the joys and challenges of their adventures, the family learns to reconnect and value each other for the first time in years.”

When is the Magic Faraway Tree coming out?

Obregonia D. Toretto/Pexels

The Magic Faraway Tree Release Date

The Magic Faraway Tree is currently filming, which means we could see it in the fall or winter of 2025. This would be the perfect movie for the holiday season!

​Who is starring in the movie?

Joe Maher/Amy Sussman/Robert Okine/Getty Images

The Magic Faraway Tree Cast

Joe, Beth, and Frannie’s actors have yet to be announced, but the adult cast is chock-full of familiar names. Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy are set to play the children’s parents, Tim and Polly. (The film’s screenwriter cheekily said, “I mean, even Enid Blyton might be impressed we got Spider-Man and the Queen.”) Nicola Coughlan will be playing a woodland fairy named Silky, and Rebecca Ferguson will be playing one of the film’s villains, Dame Snap.

Nonso Anozie, Jessica Gunning, Jennifer Saunders, and Dustin Demri-Burns are also in the cast.

Who is writing and directing the movie?

Joe Maher/Getty Images

Fans of the Faraway Tree series can breathe a sigh of relief — the film is in great hands. The Magic Faraway Tree’s screenwriter, Simon Fanaby, is no stranger to adapting beloved British children’s classics from page to screen. He’s one of the pens behind Wonka and Paddington 2, which is a great sign that The Magic Faraway Tree is sure to be as whimsical and fun as the books it’s adapting.

A less familiar name (unless you’re a fan of BBC’s Black Ops) is Ben Gregor, who has been tapped to direct the film. According to his talent agency, Gregor specializes in making comedies with visual flair. This writer/director combo is magical.

​Will The Magic Faraway Tree be a franchise?

Amazon

The Magic Faraway Tree seems to be a standalone film at the moment. The book series it’s based on is made up of four books total: The Enchanted Wood, The Magic Faraway Tree, The Folk of the Faraway Tree, and Up the Faraway Tree. Although the movie gets its name from the second book, its plot seems more similar to that of the first book. It’s very possible that the movie will incorporate all four books in one since plans for a franchise have yet to be announced.

I may be in my twenties, but I’ll happily be joining elementary schoolers at AMC on opening night when The Magic Faraway Tree hits theaters! Can't get enough of all things fantasy? Check out the latest Wicked movie news.

This post has been updated.

Personal growth is important to all of us, but we all know some people who make personal growth something like a hobby. If you've got someone on your holiday gift list who loves finding ways to grow and better themselves, this list is for you. Whether they're interested in organization, self-care, meditation, working out, or their health, we've got what you need. Show them just how much you love them and how much you understand their hobbies with gifts from this handpicked list.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Set of Baskets Is So Elegant

Amazon

They're going to love storing knick-knacks, clothes, and even snacks in these beautiful, fluted cardboard baskets. This set of three comes with lids that also double as helpful decorative trays.

See it on Amazon

Chill Out With These Lemme Gummies

Amazon

If you don't already know about the Lemme gummies then allow us to introduce you. These tasty gummies are made with ashwagandha, melatonin, and more to promote cortisol and deep rest and relaxation.

See it on Amazon

This Set of Workout Bands Is Durable and Portable

Amazon

This set can go anywhere they go. The cloth bands are easy to pack away but don't sacrifice quality or durability. The set offers three different resistance types, from light to heavy.

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Organize Those Out-of-Season Clothes With These Bins

Amazon

These flexible, cloth bins are an easy way to store all those out-of-season clothes or linens, making more room in closets and attics. They're thick, durable, and designed to keep out dust and damp.

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These Flannel Sheets Are a Neutral Dream

Amazon

Keep the Vanilla Girl on your list warm and toasty with this set of flannel sheets. These are a great way to create the best possible cozy environment for spending time curled up with a good book.

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Encourage Mindfulness With These Cards

Amazon

These beautifully illustrated cards encourage your friend to get a little deeper into their own thought patterns and habits. This set is made for self-reflection and meditation that feels deep and genuine.

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These Mocktail Mixes Support a Healthier Relationship With Alcohol

Amazon

If you've got a friend who's interested in their physical health, they're likely considering sobriety. This set of mocktail mixes helps them enjoy those delicious cocktail flavors without the alcohol.

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These Toner Pads Minimize Wrinkles

Amazon

Even both skin tone and textures with these toning pads. The pads help rejuvenate skin and keep it looking youthful, making it a great buy for the skincare-obsessed, self-care lover in your life.

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This Set of Shelves Keeps the Shower Organized

Amazon

These shelves adhere to shower walls easily and the adhesive is strong and made to last. The shelves hold all the shower essentials to keep everything as organized and tidy as possible.

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This Foam Roller Works Out Soreness and Tension

Amazon

Post-workout recovery is an essential part of muscle-building, which is why this foam roller is such an important buy. If someone on your list loves physical growth, this roller helps boost their gains.

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This Collagen Mask Is Hydrating and Firming

Amazon

Keep skin bright and bouncy with this gel mask. This collagen sheet mask is made with salmon DNA PDRN, offering skin care for their pores, firming to prevent wrinkles, and deep, lasting hydration.

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This Set of Bins Is Easy to Customize

Amazon

These storage containers have plenty of room for storing bathroom essentials, pantry items, or desk supplies. The white exterior and chalk labels make them easy to decorate and customize.

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Help Them Boost Their Booty With These Supplements

Amazon

These pink lemonade gummies are packed with creatine to help promote their glute growth. The refreshing flavor coupled with the de-bloating properties put them a head and shoulder above the other gummies on offer.

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These Gel Masks Caffeinate Your Face

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The best thing about these caffiene eye masks is that they help to depuff that tender skin under the eyes. The caffeine works to give the whole face a boost while the hyaluronic acid provides lasting hydration.

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This Jump Rope Won't Tangle on Them

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Cardio isn't always fun, but it's a lot more enjoyable with this tangle-free jump rope. The tool means they can enjoy hours of cardio without having to stop every few minutes to straighten it back out.

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Enjoy a Comfortable Fit in These High-Waisted Leggings

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Experience the epitome of comfort in these High-Waisted Leggings. Perfect for workouts, running, or yoga, these buttery-soft leggings aren’t just pants; they’re a second skin, moving and breathing with you. Elevate your active lifestyle with unmatched comfort and style.

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This Tool Is Designed to Sculpt

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If they love skincare, this light therapy wand is going to be a favorite. This tool works to sculpt the tender skin of their face, helping to fight back against wrinkles and uneven skin tones, too.

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This Dry Scrub Brush Helps Improve Circulation

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Not only does this dry brush help encourage better blood circulation, but it also feels lovely and spa-like. Most customers enjoy using the relaxing brush right before they get in the shower.

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Using This Ab Roller Is a Real Challenge

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If they love a good challenge, this ab roller was made for them. The roller gives incredible results, but those results aren't easily won. The roller helps stabilize those essential core muscles and cut away fat.

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Relieve Tension and Puffiness With These Eye Masks

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These masks can be used hot or cold and are the perfect size for resting right on top of the eyes. The mask helps to relieve tension and puffiness for a more youthful, brighter face.

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This Blender Bottle Makes Pre-Workout Much Tastier

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No more worrying about chunky pre- or post-workout with the Blender Bottle. This dishwasher-safe bottle is a great, affordable gift for the gym rat in your life who loves to focus on self-improvement.

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Help Them Stay Healthy With This Multivitamin

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This set of multivitamins is chock full of incredible ingredients from iron to omega to all the essential vitamins your body needs. The pills are easy to swallow and customers don't report any gross after-taste.

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This Skincare Set Has Everything They Need

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This brilliant skincare set comes with a foaming cleanser, a balancing wash-off mask, and a purifying serum. The skincare lover in your life will have everything they need to try a whole new routine.

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This Workout Mat Keeps Them Comfortable

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If they love yoga or they do a lot of floor work at the gym, this workout mat is a must-have. The thicker mat helps support their knees, keeping them cushioned and comfortable throughout their workout.

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These Cards Help Keep Them Mindful

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If they're working on mindfulness, this deck of affirmations is a wonderful, thoughtful gift. This is a great deck that helps them learn more about themselves and dig a little deeper into their own mind.

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Help Them Prioritize Relaxation With This Bathtub Tray

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This bamboo bathtub tray gives them all the space they need to spread out and enjoy their downtime in a warm bath. The water-resistant tray offers space for snacks, drinks, books, and even a candle or two.

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These Labels Help Keep Your Bathroom Organized

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These adhesive printed labels help them keep everything organized and tidy. With almost two hundred labels, you can be sure they've got a label for absolutely everything in their bathroom.

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These Supplements Encourage Hair Growth

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The Nutrafol supplements offer them extra support to get their hair growing thick, beautiful, and strong. These have been clinically proven to give visible results in a matter of weeks.

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This Is a Different Sort of Waist Trainer

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This waist trainer works to help them stabilize their core and work their abdomen, building and strengthening those muscles. This twist board brings a little fun and a lot of challenge to daily workouts.

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These Ampoule Pads Help Nourish and Firm Skin

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These collagen pads work to firm skin and restore elasticity, preventing those fine lines and wrinkles from ever even developing. The vegan pads are hypoallergenic and sensitive-skin friendly.

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Practice and Honors What Matters to You With This Deck

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This 78-card deck helps them learn all they need about themselves, what they value, and how they can get better at practicing those values in their daily lives, helping them recenter and reevaluate regularly.

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This Set of Masks Means They'll Never Run Out

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This set of masks is the ultimate gift. The set offers seven different types of masks, all designed to work for most skin types. The nourishing, detoxifying, hydrating masks are all made without sulfates or parabens for clean skincare.

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This Workbook Encourages Self-Love

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Sometimes, they need a little help. Fortunately, this wonderful workbook is designed to make self-love a little simpler. With thoughtful prompts and helpful advice, this book makes a thoughtful, helpful gift.

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This Set of Rolling Cabinets Is Elegant

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It's hard to add storage without also running your style. Fortunately, this rolling storage cabinet has more than enough space and is elegant and modern enough to blend well with decor.

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These Bath Bombs Are Delicately Scented

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This set of bath bombs makes a wonderful gift for the person in your life looking to get a little extra relaxation. These fizz just a bit, smell fantastic, and help promote deep rest and relaxation.

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This Set of Organizers Keep Everything Tidy

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These plastic bins are designed to fit easily into desk or vanity drawers. The containers have all the space you need to get organized and tidy, clearing counters and keeping everything within arms reach.

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Gift Them At-Home Pilates Classes

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This Pilates set gives them everything they need to enjoy their favorite Pilates classes at home. No more spending an arm and a leg just to sweat and get fit at the latest trendy studio.

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Stretch Deeper With This Yoga Wheel

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This sturdy yoga wheel is the best way to get a little deeper into those backbends. If you've got a burgeoning yogi on your list, this wheel is just what they need to get deeper into their practice.

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This Excercise Ball Lets Them Multi-Task

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Help them stabilize their core and build those muscles even while they sit at their desk. This exercise ball helps them workout without even realizing they're doing it or helps them get deeper into their routine workouts.

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