With more than 30 years of rich storytelling founded in the values of kindness and acceptance, the MY LITTLE PONY franchise from Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) continues to illustrate the power of friendship and fun that resonates with fans around the world. To celebrate this year’s International Day of Friendship on July 30th, the MY LITTLE PONY franchise is kicking off a global social movement with the release of two beautiful video montages and on-ground events around the world that focus on the socially relevant message of friendship.
In collaboration with digital media company SoulPancake, Hasbro released a video online today titled ‘Friendship Across the Globe,’ which highlights people of diverse ages and backgrounds around the world retelling the moments they realized they’d made a friend for life and what makes their friend so special to them. In the video, viewers are invited to explore how friendship is something unique that we each experience through our own distinct lenses. The video can be viewed on SoulPancake’s YouTube page, found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZqBtPGdBho&feature=youtu.be
In addition to the SoulPancake collaboration, Hasbro is thrilled to be presenting its first brand anthem for MY LITTLE PONY, created in collaboration with Grey New York titled, ‘Through the Eyes of a Friend,’ a unique social experiment that invited parents to hear how their child was doing in school; and surprised them with a report card from their child’s best friend. In this piece, parents are captivated by the true and honest perspective that these children have about their friends, and how important they are to one another. The video can be viewed on the MY LITTLE PONY YouTube page, found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S_cBtb57cc
“Friendship transcends age, gender, geography and background,” said Tyla Bucher, VP Franchise Lead, My Little Pony, Hasbro. “As we work to celebrate friendship across every aspect of the MY LITTLE PONY brand, we’re proud to continue to support and celebrate the International Day of Friendship. We hope this program brings people together as they are reminded of how special and important friendship is to everyone around the globe.”
Launching on July 30th in the U.S., Hasbro will support a weeklong custom Snapchat Lens that brings the Mane 6 right to the Snapchat community. Lenses offer Snapchatters the ability to apply real-time effects and sounds to their selfies – the Mane 6 will become part of the communication on Snapchat in an interactive, fun, and personal way. In this case, Hasbro is supporting an interactive World Lens – when users flip their camera away from their face to the rear-facing lens, the Ponies’ homeland of Equestria appears. Users can move their camera around to see their favorite characters brought to life on their device.
Making the most of International Day of Friendship, the MY LITTLE PONY brand is also hosting friendship day events around the world in 12 different markets including the United States, Italy, Brazil, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Russia, Mexico and Singapore. In the U.S., everypony is invited to the Mall of America in Bloomington, MN to enjoy a “Celebration of Friendship” featuring multiple experiential MY LITTLE PONY themed events. Fans in Italy, Taiwan and Singapore will celebrate friendship with fitness as Friendship Runs are planned in all three markets. In Brazil, everypony will celebrate Dia Da Amizade with an outdoor event and Friendship Bus Tour. Generosity is key in the UK, where fans will give the gift of friendship with a special Buy One, Give one promotion in partnership with a local charity and BFF accessories designers Pop & Suki.
Giving fans even more reasons to celebrate the International Day of Friendship, Hasbro will release its new line MY LITTLE PONY toys that day. Inspired by characters and adventures from Lionsgate’s upcoming MY LITTLE PONY: THE MOVIE, the new line of toys and figures features the beloved Mane Six as well as new characters. In MY LITTLE PONY: THE MOVIE, a new dark force threatens Ponyville, and the Mane Six – Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rarity – embark on an unforgettable journey beyond Equestria where they meet new friends and exciting challenges on a quest to use the magic of friendship and save their home. The film opens in theaters on October 6 and features an all-star cast with Emily Blunt, Kristin Chenoweth, Liev Schreiber, Michael Peña, Taye Diggs, Uzo Aduba, and Zoe Saldana, and Sia who also performs an original song for the movie.
For more information on the International Day of Friendship celebration with MY LITTLE PONY, please visit www.mylittlepony.com.

Streaming
Top-five list of romantic Japanese anime


1. Your Lie in April (Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso)
Director: Kyohei Ishiguro
Writer: Takao Yoshioka (screenplay), Naoshi Arakawa (manga)
Animation Studio: A-1 Pictures
Genre: Romance, Drama, Music
Runtime: Approx. 22 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 22
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu
Synopsis: A talented young pianist, Kosei Arima, loses his ability to hear the piano after his mother’s death. His world changes when he meets the spirited violinist Kaori Miyazono, who teaches him to embrace music and life again.

2. Fruits Basket (2019 Reboot)
Director: Yoshihide Ibata
Writer: Taku Kishimoto (screenplay), Natsuki Takaya (manga)
Animation Studio: TMS Entertainment
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Slice of Life
Runtime: Approx. 23 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 63 (3 seasons)
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
Synopsis: Orphaned Tohru Honda moves in with the mysterious Soma family, who harbor a magical curse: members transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Amid unraveling secrets, she finds love and healing.

3. Toradora!
Director: Tatsuyuki Nagai
Writer: Mari Okada (screenplay), Yuyuko Takemiya (light novel)
Animation Studio: J.C. Staff
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
Runtime: Approx. 25 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 25
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix, HIDIVE
Synopsis: Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka strike an unlikely alliance to help each other win over their crushes, only to discover their feelings for each other along the way.

4. Violet Evergarden
Director: Taichi Ishidate
Writer: Reiko Yoshida (screenplay), Kana Akatsuki (light novel)
Animation Studio: Kyoto Animation
Genre: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
Runtime: Approx. 25 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 13 + Special + Movies
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Synopsis: Violet, a former child soldier, seeks purpose as a ghostwriter and learns about love and human emotion through her clients’ stories.

5. Snow White with the Red Hair (Akagami no Shirayuki-hime)
Director: Masahiro Ando
Writer: Deko Akao (screenplay), Sorata Akizuki (manga)
Animation Studio: Bones
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama
Runtime: Approx. 24 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 24 (2 seasons)
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Synopsis: Shirayuki, a herbalist with red hair, flees her kingdom after catching the attention of a lecherous prince. She finds a new home and love with Prince Zen of the neighboring kingdom.
Streaming
Baahubali: The Beginning

Rating
Storyline: 9/10
Performances: 9/10
Direction: 10/10
Visuals and VFX: 10/10
Music: 8.5/10
Overall Rating: 9.5/10
S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali: The Beginning is a magnum opus that redefined the landscape of Indian cinema. Released in 2015, this epic historical drama captivated audiences worldwide with its grandeur, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable characters. With a mix of mythological inspiration and cinematic spectacle, Baahubali: The Beginning sets the stage for an extraordinary tale of power, betrayal, love, and legacy.
The film tells the story of Shivudu (Prabhas), a young man raised in a tranquil village who is drawn to the mysterious and towering waterfall near his home. His curiosity and courage lead him to the kingdom of Mahishmati, where he uncovers his royal lineage and his connection to the legendary warrior, Amarendra Baahubali (also played by Prabhas).
The narrative is skillfully interwoven with flashbacks revealing a tale of palace intrigue, betrayal by Bhallaladeva (Rana Daggubati), and the valor of Baahubali. The first installment ends on a cliffhanger that leaves viewers yearning for answers about the fate of Baahubali and the sinister conspiracy surrounding his death.
Prabhas as Shivudu/Amarendra Baahubali: Prabhas delivers a dual performance that is both regal and relatable. His commanding presence as Baahubali is balanced by the playful and curious nature of Shivudu. Rana Daggubati as Bhallaladeva: Rana embodies menace and ambition, portraying a formidable antagonist. His physicality and intense expressions add depth to his character. Anushka Shetty as Devasena: Though her role is limited in this installment, her fiery spirit and tragic undertones leave a lasting impression. Tamannaah Bhatia as Avantika: Tamannaah brings grace and strength to Avantika, a rebel fighting for Mahishmati’s freedom. Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami: Arguably one of the film’s standout performances, Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of the steely and noble queen is unforgettable.Sathyaraj as Kattappa: Sathyaraj adds emotional weight and intrigue to the story as the loyal yet enigmatic warrior.
S.S. Rajamouli’s vision is unparalleled. His ability to blend mythological grandeur with human emotions ensures the story resonates universally. K.K. Senthil Kumar captures the magnificence of Mahishmati and the breathtaking landscapes with a keen eye for detail. The film’s VFX is groundbreaking for Indian cinema, particularly the waterfall sequences and battle scenes. M.M. Keeravani’s music is a soul-stirring mix of grandeur and emotion, amplifying key moments. The intricate set designs and costumes reflect the film’s epic scale and authenticity.
Baahubali: The Beginning explores themes of heroism, loyalty, family, and the thirst for power. It highlights the cultural richness of Indian storytelling while presenting it in a universally accessible format. The film’s success not only established Telugu cinema on the global stage but also proved that regional Indian films could achieve blockbuster status internationally.
Baahubali: The Beginning is more than a film; it is an experience. Its blend of epic storytelling, jaw-dropping visuals, and powerful performances makes it a landmark in Indian cinema. The movie is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates grand narratives and larger-than-life characters. It leaves you in awe and eagerly anticipating the sequel, Baahubali: The Conclusion.
Whether you’re a fan of historical epics or someone looking for an immersive cinematic experience, Baahubali: The Beginning is a film that transcends boundaries and sets a gold standard for Indian films on the global stage.
Movie
Love Hurts Delivers High-Octane Action with Heart

Rating: 8/10
Genre: Action, Comedy
Runtime: 83 minutes
Director: Jonathan Eusebio
Writers: Matthew Murray, Josh Stoddard, Luke Passmore
Studio: 87North Productions, Universal Pictures
Stars: Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Marshawn Lynch, Mustafa Shakir, Lio Tipton, Rhys Darby, André Eriksen, Sean Astin
Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) is a former hitman who has reinvented himself as a successful realtor in suburban Milwaukee. But his peaceful life is shattered when Rose (Ariana DeBose), his former partner and lost love, reappears with a chilling warning. Adding to the chaos, Marvin’s estranged brother, Knuckles Gable (Daniel Wu), a ruthless crime lord, is on a relentless hunt for him. Forced to confront his past, Marvin must fight his way through old enemies and long-buried secrets—all while trying to keep his new life intact.
From the moment Love Hurts begins, it grips the audience with a pulse-pounding blend of action, comedy, and emotional depth. Director Jonathan Eusebio, best known for his stunt work in John Wick and Deadpool 2, makes a stellar transition to the director’s chair, delivering slick, hard-hitting action sequences that showcase his mastery of fight choreography.
Ke Huy Quan, in his first major leading role since his Academy Award win, is an unconventional yet compelling action star. He brings an everyman charm to Marvin, making him both relatable and surprisingly lethal when pushed to the edge. Ariana DeBose shines as Rose, exuding charisma and wit, while Daniel Wu commands the screen as a menacing yet layered villain.
The film moves at a breakneck pace, balancing high-octane action with well-timed humor and emotional weight. The chemistry between Quan and DeBose adds depth to the story, making their characters’ relationship feel authentic. While the plot treads familiar ground, it’s executed with such energy and style that it remains thoroughly engaging.
Love Hurts is a thrilling action-comedy that delivers intense fight sequences, sharp humor, and a heartfelt story. Ke Huy Quan proves that he’s not just a comeback story—he’s a bona fide action star. While the film doesn’t reinvent the genre, it executes its formula with precision and flair, making it a must-watch for action fans.
Final Rating: 8/10—An electrifying mix of action, comedy, and heart that proves love—and revenge—can hurt in all the right ways.