#876 Terrifying New Photos Emerge From the Jeffrey Epstein Estate
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#2899 ** "Empowering Communities: Understanding the Importance of State in Arfi Foundation's Work"
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As a leading NGO/charity organization, Arfi Foundation is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of marginalized communities around the world. One crucial aspect of our work is understanding and addressing the concept of state, which plays a vital role in shaping the lives of individuals and communities. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of state in Arfi Foundation's work, explore how we address state-related issues, and provide practical insights on how our efforts make a difference.
**What is the Concept of State?**
The concept of state refers to the complex system of institutions, laws, and norms that govern a country or region. It encompasses various aspects, including governance, law enforcement, social services, and economic systems. In many communities, the state can either empower or restrict individuals and communities, depending on its effectiveness and responsiveness to their needs. As Arfi Foundation, we recognize that a functional and inclusive state is essential for promoting social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
**How Arfi Foundation Works with State**
At Arfi Foundation, we work with state institutions, civil society organizations, and community leaders to strengthen the capacity of the state to deliver essential services and protect the rights of marginalized communities. Our approach is centered on three key areas: advocacy, capacity building, and service delivery. Through advocacy, we push for policy reforms and legislation that address the needs of vulnerable communities. We also build the capacity of state institutions and civil society organizations to provide effective services, such as healthcare, education, and social protection. Finally, we work with community leaders to identify and address specific service delivery gaps and advocate for inclusive and responsive state policies.
**Addressing State-Related Challenges**
One of the significant challenges we face in our work is addressing the limitations of the state in serving marginalized communities. Many communities experience inadequate or inaccessible healthcare, education, and social services due to systemic barriers, such as corruption, lack of resources, or inadequate infrastructure. At Arfi Foundation, we recognize that these challenges require a multifaceted approach that involves both state and non-state actors. We work with community-based organizations, civil society groups, and state institutions to identify and address these challenges, often through innovative and collaborative solutions.
**Real-Life Examples: Arfi Foundation's Success Stories**
Our work with state institutions has resulted in tangible improvements in the lives of marginalized communities. For instance, in a recent project, we partnered with a local government to establish a community-based healthcare program for refugees. Through our advocacy efforts, we secured funding and resources to support the program, which has now reached over 5,000 refugees and provided essential healthcare services. Similarly, in another project, we worked with a state education department to develop inclusive education policies for children with disabilities. Our collaboration led to the development of a national policy framework that promotes accessibility and inclusivity in education.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the concept of state is a critical aspect of Arfi Foundation's work in empowering marginalized communities. By understanding the complexities of state and working collaboratively with state institutions, civil society organizations, and community leaders, we can address the systemic barriers that prevent individuals and communities from accessing essential services and realizing their rights. Through our advocacy, capacity building, and service delivery efforts, we are committed to strengthening the capacity of the state to serve the most vulnerable members of society.
**EXCERPT:**
"Empowering marginalized communities requires a deep understanding of the state and its role in shaping their lives. At Arfi Foundation, we work tirelessly with state institutions, civil society organizations, and community leaders to strengthen the capacity of the state to deliver essential services and protect human rights. By addressing state-related challenges and promoting inclusive policies, we strive to create a more just and equitable society for all."
#2550 **Empowering Communities through State: How Arfi Foundation is Making a Difference**
**CONTENT**
As an NGO/charity organization, Arfi Foundation is committed to improving the lives of marginalized communities around the world. One of the key areas of focus for the foundation is state, recognizing the critical role that governments play in shaping the lives of citizens. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of state and how Arfi Foundation is working to strengthen and empower communities through its work in this area.
**What is State?**
The concept of state refers to the system of governance that exists in a particular country or region. It encompasses the institutions, laws, and policies that shape the lives of citizens and guide the development of a society. State is often seen as a neutral entity, but in reality, it can be a powerful tool for promoting social justice, protecting human rights, and addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
**Arfi Foundation's Approach to State**
At Arfi Foundation, we recognize that state is a critical component of any society. Our approach to state is centered on the idea that governments have a responsibility to protect and promote the well-being of their citizens. We work with governments, civil society organizations, and local communities to strengthen state institutions, improve governance, and promote social justice.
One of the key ways that Arfi Foundation is working to strengthen state is through our capacity building programs. These programs aim to build the skills and knowledge of government officials, civil society leaders, and community members, enabling them to effectively design and implement policies and programs that address the needs of marginalized communities. We also work to promote transparency and accountability in government, ensuring that citizens have access to information and can hold their leaders accountable for their actions.
**Practical Insights from Arfi Foundation's Work**
Our work in state has yielded several practical insights that we believe are relevant to other organizations working in this area. One key finding is the importance of building strong relationships between governments, civil society organizations, and local communities. These relationships are critical for ensuring that government policies and programs are responsive to the needs of citizens and that civil society organizations are able to effectively advocate for the rights and interests of marginalized communities.
Another key finding is the need for governments to prioritize transparency and accountability in their operations. This can be achieved through the use of technology, such as online portals and social media, to provide citizens with access to information and to facilitate feedback and participation. We have also found that governments can leverage their existing institutions and mechanisms to promote social justice and protect human rights, rather than relying on external actors.
**Case Study: Arfi Foundation's Work in [Country/Region]**
One of the most significant examples of Arfi Foundation's work in state is our project in [Country/Region]. This project aimed to strengthen the capacity of government officials to design and implement policies and programs that addressed the needs of marginalized communities. We worked with government officials, civil society leaders, and community members to build their skills and knowledge, and to promote transparency and accountability in government.
The project yielded several positive outcomes, including the development of a new policy framework that prioritized the needs of marginalized communities and the establishment of a citizen participation mechanism that enabled citizens to provide feedback and participate in the policy-making process. We also worked with government officials to establish a complaint mechanism that enabled citizens to report cases of corruption and misuse of power.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, state is a critical component of any society, and governments have a responsibility to protect and promote the well-being of their citizens. At Arfi Foundation, we believe that strengthening state institutions and promoting social justice and human rights are key to creating a more just and equitable society. Our work in state has yielded several practical insights and case studies that we believe are relevant to other organizations working in this area.
**EXCERPT**
Learn how Arfi Foundation is working to strengthen state institutions and promote social justice and human rights. Our capacity building programs and advocacy work are empowering communities around the world to demand a better future. Discover how we're making a difference in the lives of marginalized communities.
#2201 ** Empowering Communities Through Effective State Partnerships: Arfi Foundation's Approach
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As a non-governmental organization (NGO), Arfi Foundation is deeply committed to creating positive change in communities around the world. One crucial aspect of our work is building and maintaining strong partnerships with government agencies, or 'state.' Effective state partnerships are essential for maximizing the impact of our programs and ensuring that we are working together towards common goals.
So, what does it mean to work with the state, and how does Arfi Foundation approach this critical aspect of our work? In this post, we'll delve into the importance of state partnerships, the challenges we face, and the practical strategies we use to build effective relationships with government agencies.
**Why State Partnerships Matter**
State partnerships are a vital component of our work at Arfi Foundation. By collaborating with government agencies, we can leverage their resources, expertise, and influence to amplify our impact and achieve greater results. This can take many forms, from advocating for policy changes to providing direct support for community programs.
For example, in our work on education, we partner with government agencies to provide training and resources for teachers, as well as to advocate for improvements in education policy. In our health programs, we work with government agencies to provide access to healthcare services, including vaccinations and medical treatment.
**Challenges in State Partnerships**
While state partnerships offer many benefits, they can also present significant challenges. One of the biggest hurdles we face is navigating the complex bureaucratic systems that govern government agencies. This can involve understanding the intricacies of policy and procedure, as well as building relationships with key stakeholders.
Another challenge is ensuring that our partnerships are truly collaborative and mutually beneficial. This requires a deep understanding of the needs and priorities of both our organization and the government agency we're working with.
**Arfi Foundation's Approach to State Partnerships**
So, how do we approach state partnerships at Arfi Foundation? Here are a few key strategies we use:
1. **Building Relationships**: We take the time to build strong, personal relationships with government officials, understanding their priorities, challenges, and goals.
2. **Understanding Policy and Procedure**: We invest in understanding the intricacies of government policy and procedure, ensuring that we can effectively navigate the system.
3. **Collaborative Planning**: We work closely with government agencies to develop plans and programs that meet both their needs and our own.
4. **Transparency and Accountability**: We maintain open and transparent communication with government agencies, ensuring that we're meeting our commitments and delivering results.
**Practical Insights and Takeaways**
So, what can we learn from Arfi Foundation's approach to state partnerships? Here are a few key takeaways:
1. **Relationships Matter**: Building strong relationships with government officials is essential for successful state partnerships.
2. **Collaboration is Key**: Effective state partnerships require a collaborative approach, with both parties working together towards common goals.
3. **Understanding Policy and Procedure**: Taking the time to understand government policy and procedure can help avoid bureaucratic hurdles and ensure smoother collaboration.
**Conclusion**
Effective state partnerships are critical to the success of Arfi Foundation's programs and initiatives. By building strong relationships, understanding policy and procedure, and collaborating on shared goals, we can maximize our impact and create lasting change in communities around the world. Whether you're a government official, a community leader, or a fellow NGO, we hope that this post has provided valuable insights and practical strategies for building effective state partnerships.
**EXCERPT:** At Arfi Foundation, we believe that effective state partnerships are essential for creating positive change in communities around the world. In this post, we'll explore the importance of state partnerships, the challenges we face, and the practical strategies we use to build strong relationships with government agencies.
#1852 **Empowering Communities: The Role of State in Arfi Foundation's Work**
**EXCERPT:** At Arfi Foundation, we believe that a strong state is crucial in uplifting marginalized communities. In this blog post, we delve into the concept of state and its significance in our work, highlighting the practical implications and insights that shape our approach.
As a humanitarian organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable populations, Arfi Foundation has always recognized the vital role of the state in fostering development and social justice. The state, in its various forms and incarnations, is often seen as a powerful actor in shaping the lives of its citizens. However, its relationship with marginalized communities is complex and multifaceted. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of state and its implications for our work, highlighting the tensions and opportunities that arise from this dynamic.
**Understanding the State**
The state is a complex entity that encompasses various institutions, policies, and practices that govern a society. Its primary function is to provide public goods and services, maintain law and order, and promote the well-being of its citizens. However, the state's relationship with marginalized communities is often characterized by power imbalances, historical injustices, and systemic inequalities. This has led to a lack of trust and engagement between the state and these communities, with many feeling disconnected from the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
**Arfi Foundation's Approach**
At Arfi Foundation, we recognize the state's potential to drive positive change, but also acknowledge the challenges and limitations that arise from its complex and often fragmented nature. Our approach is centered on building partnerships with local governments, civil society organizations, and community leaders to leverage the state's resources and capacities for the benefit of marginalized communities. Through our work, we aim to:
1. **Strengthen state capacity**: We provide technical assistance and capacity-building programs to help local governments and institutions develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively serve marginalized communities.
2. **Promote inclusive governance**: We engage with community leaders and stakeholders to ensure that their voices are heard and represented in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
3. **Address systemic inequalities**: We work to address the historical and systemic injustices that have contributed to the marginalization of certain groups, advocating for policies and programs that promote equity and social justice.
**Practical Insights and Examples**
Our work in the field has provided us with valuable insights into the complexities of state-community relationships. For instance:
1. **Community-led initiatives**: We have seen that community-led initiatives, such as participatory budgeting and citizen engagement platforms, can be effective in bridging the gap between the state and marginalized communities.
2. **Institutional reform**: We have worked with local governments to reform institutions and policies that perpetuate inequality and exclusion, such as discriminatory laws and regulations.
3. **Social protection programs**: We have supported the development of social protection programs that provide essential services and benefits to vulnerable populations, such as cash transfers and healthcare initiatives.
**Conclusion**
The state is a complex and multifaceted entity that plays a critical role in shaping the lives of marginalized communities. At Arfi Foundation, we recognize the state's potential to drive positive change, but also acknowledge the challenges and limitations that arise from its complex and often fragmented nature. Through our work, we aim to build partnerships with local governments, civil society organizations, and community leaders to leverage the state's resources and capacities for the benefit of those who need it most. By strengthening state capacity, promoting inclusive governance, and addressing systemic inequalities, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.
#1485 30 of the Best Movies to Watch on New Year’s Eve
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For many of us, New Year's Eve represents not just the climax of a long holiday season, but also a time to simultaneously reflect, and to look forward to what's ahead—sometimes with optimism, sometimes with sheer dread. (Lately, mostly dread.)
Movies have frequently recognized the simultaneously hopeful and perilous nature of the time. It can be a period of reassessment, or renewal, or massive change. This selection of choice New Year's Eve movies reflects that range of possibilities, including everything from romance and murder, to comedy and tragedy, to wild sex and heartbreaking loneliness.
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Taking on an added poignance following the death of director Rob Reiner, his classic collaboration with Nora Ephron follows Billy Crystal's Harry and Meg Ryan's Sally over the course of 11 tempestuous years, with two major scenes set at New Year's Eve parties: The first involves a midnight kiss that signals the beginning of a potential romantic relationship between the two; the second comes at the climax of the film, when a decade's worth of growth, apart and together, sees the two in the same place at the same time, both literally and metaphorically. Rent When Harry Met Sally from Prime Video.
Waiting to Exhale (1995)
This Terry McMillan adaptation about the power of female friendships (which is, impossibly, celebrating its 30th anniversary) has an all-time great cast led by Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon. Bassett's character, Bernadine, has a singularly powerful revelation, leading to a memorable revenge sequence, on New Year's Eve. Stream Waiting to Exhale on Hulu and Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
The Substance (2024)
New Year's resolutions, for better or worse, frequently include promises to take better care of our bodies in the months to come—though we often just mean we want to find ways to look younger, skinnier, and prettier. In this lurid arthouse horror flick, Demi Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle, a middle-aged celebrity fired from her aerobics show solely because of her age. She's soon introduced to the titular Substance, which allows her to generate a younger version of herself with her own consciousness. It's a dire warning about the potential costs of our endless hunger for youth, and the climax appropriately comes during a New Year's Eve telecast that goes horrifically askew. Stream The Substance on HBO Max or rent it from Prime Video.
The Gold Rush (1925)
You might be forgiven for forgetting that one of early American cinema's most memorable moments was centered around New Year's Eve: In Charlie Chaplin'e early classic, his Prospector character meets Georgia (Georgia Hale), a dance hall girl who dances with him to irritate an obnoxious suitor. She accepts his invitation to a NYE dinner, but mostly forgets about it. While she's having a blast at a big party, he's alone in his cabin, dreaming of company—and entertaining his make-believe guests with a pair of dancing potatoes. (Not to worry: Georgia soon comes to see what a catch the Prospector is.) Stream The Gold Rush on HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, and Prime Video.
Phantom Thread (2017)
There's a relatively brief (but crucial) scene in Paul Thomas Anderson's film set on New Year's Eve. Its climax is arguably the moment on which the entire film turns: Renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) has been in a relationship with waitress Alma Elson (Vicky Krieps), one that seems poised to break through his carefully constructed routine. He refuses her request to go to a NYE party, though, and, when she goes on her own, he follows her and very nearly drags her away. The moment makes clear that, if this relationship has any chance of succeeding, drastic changes will need to happen. The contemplation of such coming change is, in a roundabout way, what New Year's Eve is all about. Stream Phantom Thread on Netflix or rent it from Prime Video.
The Godfather Part II (1974)
The climax of the film, and the single most pivotal moment in Michael Corleone's life, comes during a New Year's Eve party in Cuba. It's the night that Michael (Al Pacino) learns of his betrayal by his brother, Fredo (John Cazale). The fateful kiss that ensues is a deliberate inversion of the traditional midnight kiss—one that ensures that neither Michael nor Fredo will be having a particularly happy year. Stream The Godfather Part II on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video.
Rocky (1976)
A little New Year's inspiration, perhaps, offered up by a film with multiple seasonal themes. Journeyman boxer Rocky Balboa is given a chance at the big time when heavyweight champion Apollo Creed (the late, great Carl Weathers) finds himself in need of an opponent for a planned fight. Unwilling to blow his big chance, Rocky finds a scrappy trainer and a scrappier love interest while working toward the big fight on New Year's Day. While the outcome isn't fully in Rocky's favor, he reminds us that sometimes we can win by losing, dusting ourselves off to fight again (in approximately 80 sequels and spin-offs). Stream Rocky on Peacock or rent it from Prime Video.
Ghostbusters II (1989)
It might be a lesser film in the Ghostbusters canon, but there's still plenty of fun to be had with this sequel. The entire film builds towards a New Year's Eve climax, with the machinations of Vigo the Carpathian and company moving toward the turning of the year. New York City is saved, ultimately, by some emotionally charged slime and a moving rendition of "Auld Lang Syne." Rent Ghostbusters II from Prime Video.
The Apartment (1960)
Set almost entirely between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Billy Wilder’s Best Picture winner was groundbreaking in its approach to sexuality (aside from being among the finest American movies, pretty much ever). Jack Lemmon plays Bud Baxter, an insurance clerk who’s climbed the corporate ladder by loaning out his apartment to the higher-ups to use for their extramarital affairs. In the midst of that, a fraught affection develops between Bud and Shirley MacLaine’s Fran, the office building’s elevator operator, a woman who’s been in a joyless affair with Bud’s boss (Fred MacMurray). A fairly miserable New Year's Eve party gives way to something a bit more hopeful when Fran realizes that love might just be worth taking a chance on. Stream The Apartment on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
Il Posto (1961)
Along similarly wistful lines, the Italian classic satire Il Posto follows Domenico (Sandro Panseri), a young man pressured by his family to jump right into a career, which he does by signing on with a soul-sucking corporation. At work, he meets Antonietta (Loredana Detto), a young woman in a similar boat, with whom he steals a few moments at an office New Year's party. The film offers no tangible hope of an escape from the endless grind of modern-day capitalism, but it does serve as a timely reminder that the work is meaningless, and time spent with kindred spirits is far more valuable. Stream Il Posto on The Criterion Channel.
Snowpiercer (2013)
Bong Joon-ho's post-apocalypse is coming up quick, what with Snowpiercer being set in 2031. Here, the survivors of climate catastrophe live together on one giant train that travels the frozen, lifeless globe. The annual celebration here comes once a year, when the train has completed a full circle of the world. It's one such celebration of the train's new year that the oppressed, maltreated residents of the train's tail end use as an opportunity to stage a revolt against the entitled and pampered passengers at the front. Not the worst New Year's resolution to make, honestly. Stream Snowpiercer on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
An all-star triumph from the golden age of disaster cinema, the original Poseidon Adventure finds Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Jack Albertson, Shelley Winters, and Red Buttons (among others) trapped on a cruise liner that's been capsized by an undersea earthquake, one that happens within moments of the ball drop and big party. They'll all have to spend New Year's Day clawing and scraping their way back to the surface—which is as good a hangover metaphor as you're likely to find in an upside-down boat movie. Stream The Poseidon Adventure on Prime Video.
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
New Year's Eve represents the past in Nora Ephron's romantic comedy-drama, as architect Sam (Tom Hanks) has a sweet but imagined conversation with his late wife set during holiday festivities. The future? Valentine's Day, as Sam and Annie (Meg Ryan) are drawn toward a meeting at the top of the Empire State Building. Stream Sleepless in Seattle on Starz or rent it from Prime Video.
After the Thin Man (1936)
The breezy, boozy chemistry between William Powell and Myrna Loy is a highlight of the entire Thin Man series, and it's still running strong in this first sequel, when married sleuths Nick and Nora Charles are expecting a dull New Year's Eve, only to find themselves in the middle of a kidnapping and murder (involving Jimmy Stewart in his first major film role). The previous movie is set at Christmas, so you might as well watch that one, too. Rent After the Thin Man from Prime Video.
Holiday (1938)
Would you rather spend New Year's Eve with William Powell and Myrna Loy or with Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant? Why choose—Holiday and After the Thin Man are short enough that you can watch both in less time than a single Avatar movie. Here Grant plays Johnny Case, a self-made thousandaire (hey, it was the Depression) who wants to take some time off and enjoy the bit of money he's made while also planning to marry Julia, who's fine and fun and all, but ultimately can't compare to her vivacious older sister Linda (Hepburn). A series of memorable New Year's Eve somersaults set them both on the road to discovering each other, but George Cukor's film doesn't make it nearly that easy. Each needs to decide what they want out of life, and what they're willing to do to get it, before they can really see one another. It's just the tiniest bit under-appreciated for being one of the very best films from either lead. Rent Holiday from Prime Video.
New Year's Evil (1980)
Is it among the best of the slasher genre? It is not. It's pretty charmingly goofy, though, with a killer calling into a NYE radio show promising to kill people across the United States as midnight arrives in each time zone. In the harsh light of day, it probably won't fit the bill—but it might be perfect in that boozy post-midnight haze. It's also got a very solid title track. Stream New Year's Evil on MGM+.
Midnight Kiss (2019)
Technically an episode of Hulu's Into the Dark anthology series, the feature-length Midnight Kiss finds a bunch of gay friends (and their straight female friend) heading out to a gorgeous place in the desert for an annual tradition: They'll each pick someone at random to kiss at midnight. Old resentments bubble to the surface, egged on (unbeknownst to most of them) by a serial killer. It's no spoiler to suggest that they won't all make it to New Year's Day. Stream Midnight Kiss on Hulu.
Sunset Boulevard (1950)
One-time movie star Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson) is a mess, frankly, and it's never more clear than during her elaborate, catered New Year's party for two: her, and Joe (William Holden)—who we already know will wind up dead in Norma's pool. This might be the moment when we realize just how delusional the diva had become. On the other hand, NYE is a time for a little bit of sloppiness, and, though treated as an ancient relic, Swanson was only 50 when this was filmed, so maybe we can cut her some slack. Stream Sunset Boulevard on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video.
Repeat Performance (1947)
What if we consider, for just one moment, that the changing of years might not be a time of blessed renewal, but instead an opportunity to travel back in time and try to undo some of the stuff you royally fucked up in the prior year. Given that we're solidly in noir territory here, don't expect overwhelming success. On New Year's Eve 1946, Sheila Page (Joan Leslie) stands over the dead body of her husband, wishing that she could do things differently. Et voila! She's back at the beginning of the year and trying to stop the disintegration of her marriage with some help from her gay bestie (Richard Basehart). Stream Repeat Performance on Kanopy.
Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
Kicking off a (perhaps) unlikely franchise, this beloved rom-com is bookended by New Year's Eve gatherings: Bridget (Renée Zellweger) is 32, dorky, and worried about her weight (about which: Girl, you look great). Meeting old acquaintance Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) at a party, she overhears his comments about how she drinks too much, smokes too much, and dresses like her mother. Finding him rude but not entirely off the mark, she begins a year-long quest to change her life for the better. Stream Bridget Jones' Diary on Peacock and Paramount+.
About Time (2013)
Another time-travel movie with a key New Year's Eve sequence, this one's significantly less murder-y. Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson star as Mary and Tim, a couple whose story is constantly in flux thanks to Tim's ability to move through time—an ability that comes in particularly handy when he wants to keep trying a New Year's kiss until it's just right. Rent About Time from Prime Video.
An American in Paris (1951)
We do love a New Year's party theme, and they don't come much better (nor more thoroughly designed) than the black-and-white party at the center of Gene Kelly's An American in Paris, the film that won the Best Picture Oscar in its year. Stream An American in Paris on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
Ocean's 11 (1960)
It's less a meticulously crafted piece of cinema than an excuse for the Rat Pack (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop) to hang—but that cool, boozy chemistry goes a surprisingly long way. Sinatra plays Danny Ocean, who brings together his old Army buddies with an elaborate New Year's Eve plan to simultaneously rob five Las Vegas casinos: the Sahara, the Riviera, the Desert Inn, the Sands, and the Flamingo. Stream Ocean's 11 on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
Happy New Year (2014)
With a bit of inspiration from Ocean's Eleven (the 2001 version), this Hindi-language action comedy stars Shah Rukh Khan as a gritty street fighter who plans a heist as a means of getting back at the man who had his father wrongfully imprisoned. His target? The real-life Hotel Atlantis in Dubai. The catch? He and his team will need to infiltrate a dance competition, though none of them can dance. The result is, unsurprisingly, glorious. Stream Happy New Year on Netflix.
High School Musical (2006)
Try not to be alarmed that the feel-good Disney Channel movie is, itself, old enough to start sending off college applications. Just enjoy the 2000s vibes and, particularly, the opening sequence. Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez (Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens) meet up at a ski lodge on New Year's Eve for a seasonally appropriate duet called "Start of Something New." Stream High School Musical on Disney+ or rent it from Prime Video.
Rent (2005)
The adaptation of the stage musical (starring much of the original cast) kicks off on a chilly New York New Year's Eve, and asks the question that's on all of our minds around this time: How do you measure a year? Rent Rent from Prime Video.
Are We There Yet? (2005)
Ice Cube stars here alongside Nia Long, Jay Mohr and Tracy Morgan in a charmingly goofy (and family-friendly) movie about a New Year's Eve trip to the airport. Sounds simple, sure, but Nick (Ice Cube) is determined to impress the woman he likes by picking up her kids and bringing them to meet her for a flight to Vancouver. Suffice it to say, the kids do not make it easy. If you have even more time to kill on New Year's Eve, there's a sequel (Are We Done Yet?) and a spin-off TV series, all currently streaming. Stream Are We There Yet on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
Diner (1982)
In 1959, a group of close, college-age friends reunite in time for the New Year's Eve wedding of Eddie (Steve Guttenberg), the circumstances prompting a fair bit of introspection on the prospect of fully transitioning to adulthood. NYE is a time for reflection, so why not? Kevin Bacon, Mickey Rourke, Daniel Stern, and Tim Daly make up the rest of the group. Rent Diner from Prime Video.
Rosemary's Baby (1968)
It's not just any old new year being celebrated in Rosemary's Baby, but the new year: the first year of a new satanic age about to be (literally) birthed by Mia Farrow's Rosemary Woodhouse. As of the New Year's Eve gathering in the film, Rosemary isn't in on the extent to which she, her body, and her pregnancy are being manipulated by people to whom she's merely a vessel, but her sense of isolation among supposed friends—and a critic toast to "The Year One!"—spurs her justified paranoia. Stream Rosemary's Baby on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video.
Trading Places (1983)
Trading Places starts off at Christmas and peaks with a New Year's Eve train ride involving a heist, two gorillas (one real, one fake), and multiple disguises. The comedy is often very silly here, but Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd have tremendous chemistry and, unusual for the 1980s, the movie has some very pointed commentary about corporate greed. Stream Trading Places on Paramount+, Peacock, and Tubi or rent it from Prime Video.
#1123 Conservative and Christian? US right champions psychedelic drugs
Texas governor among those to call for expanded access to ibogaine, said to help with treating veterans with PTSD
For half a century, psychedelics largely belonged to the cultural left: anti-war, anti-capitalist, suspicious of the church and state. Now, one of the most politically consequential psychedelic drugs in the US – ibogaine – is being championed by evangelical Christians, Republican governors, military veterans, and big tech billionaires.
Many of them see ibogaine, an intense psychedelic derived from a central African rootbark, as a divine technology. In fact, some pointedly do not refer to it as a psychedelic, given the apparent baggage of the term in some circles.
This story was amended on 26 December 2025 to clarify that Americans for Ibogaine was not formed with, and has never received, funding from Rex Elsass.
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#1091 British campaigner launches legal challenge against Trump administration after deportation threat
Imran Ahmed, an anti-disinformation advocate, claims he is being targeted for scrutinising social media companies
A British anti-disinformation campaigner close to Keir Starmer’s chief of staff has launched a legal challenge against the Trump administration after being told he could face deportation from the US in a row over freedom of speech.
Imran Ahmed, the chief executive of the Centre for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), has filed a complaint against senior Trump allies including the secretary of state, Marco Rubio, and the attorney general, Pam Bondi, in an attempt to prevent what he says would be an unconstitutional arrest and removal.
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#1067 Former Malaysian PM Najib Razak found guilty of abuse of power in latest 1MDB trial
Najib has been in prison since August 2022, when Malaysia’s top court upheld a corruption conviction. He denies wrongdoing
Jailed former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak has been found guilty of abuse of power, in the biggest trial yet in the multibillion-dollar fraud scandal related to state fund 1MDB.
Najib had been charged with four counts of corruption and 21 counts of money laundering for receiving illegal transfers of about 2.2bn ringgit ($544.15m) from 1MDB. He has consistently denied wrongdoing.
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#1062 Hundreds of thousands newly displaced as Islamic State insurgency expands in Mozambique
Rising numbers of people flee jihadists, as violence against civilians increases and foreign aid dwindles
More than 300,000 people have been displaced by an Islamic State insurgency in Mozambique since July, amid growing fears that authorities lack a workable plan to end the fighting.
With wars in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan attracting more attention and foreign aid falling, the grinding conflict in Mozambique has been largely ignored or forgotten. More than 1 million people have been displaced, many of them two, three or even four times.
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#1035 US supreme court blocks Trump bid to deploy national guard to Chicago
In a 6-3 decision, the high court sided with a lower court ruling that blocked deployment of troops to the Illinois city
The US supreme court refused on Tuesday to let Donald Trump send national guard troops to the Chicago area, in an important reining-in of the US president’s efforts to expand the use of the military for domestic purposes in historic moves against a growing number of Democratic-led jurisdictions.
The nation’s highest court denied the US justice department’s request to lift a judge’s order in October that has blocked the deployment of hundreds of national guard personnel in a legal challenge brought by Illinois state officials and local leaders, who had opposed any federalization of those troops to offer backup to immigration enforcement.
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