Nationwide Shutdown Sees Theaters Offering Free Admission Amidst Protests
In response to the recent ICE shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026, non-profit organizations and small businesses across the United States participated in a nationwide shutdown and general strike on Friday, January 29, 2026. According to Variety, the shutdown aimed to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Minnesota.
Several theaters joined the movement by offering free admission. The American Cinematheque and Vidiots were among the theaters that opened their doors to the public without charge, according to Variety.
Oscars to Feature Only Two Original Song Performances
In other news from the entertainment industry, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed that only two of the Best Original Song nominees will perform live at the upcoming Oscars ceremony. Variety reported that the decision was due to time constraints during the broadcast.
"Made In Korea" Tops Disney+ Charts
Disney confirmed that "Made In Korea" became the streamer's most-viewed Korean original premiere of 2025 across Asia-Pacific markets. According to Variety, the crime noir series, set in the 1970s, achieved this milestone based on viewership figures recorded 28 days after its December 24 debut.
Bitters End Acquires "All the Lovers in the Night"
Japanese sales and distribution company Bitters End acquired international rights to "All the Lovers in the Night," Yukiko Sode's feature adaptation of Mieko Kawakami's novel. Variety reported that the film stars Golden Globe winner Tadanobu Asano and Yukino Kishii. The company will be presenting the film at the Berlin European Film Market (EFM).
HBO Max Streaming Highlights
While these events unfolded, HBO Max continued to offer a wide array of films for streaming. Wired highlighted the platform's impressive lineup of original series and feature-length content, including Oscar-nominated hits and thought-provoking documentaries.
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