The following are highlights of The CW’s Holiday episodes and specials:
Thursday, November 20
“THE VAMPIRE DIARIES” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)
“Fade Into You” (Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
FRIENDSGIVING AT WHITMORE COLLEGE / FLASHBACKS TO KAI’S MURDEROUS PAST — As Caroline (Candice Accola) and Elena (Nina Dobrev) prepare to host Friendsgiving at the dorm, they receive some hopeful news from Alaric (Matt Davis) and Stefan (Paul Wesley), who have traveled to Portland to gather some information regarding the Gemini Coven. Joshua Butler directed the episode written by Nina Fiore & John Herrera (#608).
Wednesday, November 26
TWO-HOUR MOVIE
“PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES” (8:00-10:00p.m. ET)
(TV-PG, DL) (HDTV)
STEVE MARTIN AND JOHN CANDY STAR — Neal Page (Martin), a high-strung advertising executive, meets Del Griffith (Candy), an eternally optimistic, overly talkative, well-meaning but clumsy shower curtain-ring salesman, who seems to live in a world governed by a different set of rules. They share a three-day odyssey of misadventures trying to get Neal home to Chicago from New York City in time for Thanksgiving dinner with his family. The 1987 comedy was written, produced and directed by John Hughes.
Friday, November 28
ONE-HOUR SPECIAL
“GRANDMA GOT RUN OVER BY A REINDEER” (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET) (TV-G)
A CHRISTMAS SPECIAL BASED ON THE HIT HOLIDAY SONG ─ Based on the hit song that became a worldwide holiday phenomenon, this goofy and heartwarming adventure features young Jake Spankenheimer on the quest of a lifetime to track his missing Grandma down on Christmas Eve and prove that Santa Claus is indeed real. Michele Lee (“Knots Landing”) provides the voice of Jake’s greedy Cousin Mel and recording artist Elmo Shropshire provides the narration.
HALF-HOUR ANIMATED SPECIAL
“KUNG FU PANDA HOLIDAY” (9:00-9:30p.m. ET) (TV-G) (HDTV)
A HOLIDAY SPECIAL WITH THE VOICE TALENTS OF JACK BLACK, ANGELINA JOLIE AND DUSTIN HOFFMAN ─ The Winter Festival is coming and Po, the Kung Fu Panda, is asked to host the exclusive formal banquet for all the Masters of Kung Fu. However, the occasion is on the same night as his father’s own party. Feeling guilty and burdened by work he has taken on, Po is unsure which way to turn until he realizes who truly needs him more on the big night. The special was written by Jonathan Groff and Jon Pollack and directed by Tim Johnson.
HALF-HOUR ANIMATED SPECIAL
“MERRY MADAGASCAR” (9:30-10:00p.m. ET) (TV-G) (HDTV)
A HOLIDAY SPECIAL WITH THE VOICE TALENTS OF BEN STILLER, CHRIS ROCK, DAVID SCHWIMMER ─ When Santa and his reindeer crash onto Madagascar it’s up to Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melvin and the penguins to save Christmas. The special was written by Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath and David Soren and directed by David Soren.
Monday, December 1
ONE-HOUR SPECIAL
“GRANDMA GOT RUN OVER BY A REINDEER” (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET) (TV-G)
A CHRISTMAS SPECIAL BASED ON THE HIT HOLIDAY SONG ─ Based on the hit song that became a worldwide holiday phenomenon, this goofy and heartwarming adventure features young Jake Spankenheimer on the quest of a lifetime to track his missing Grandma down on Christmas Eve and prove that Santa Claus is indeed real. Michele Lee (“Knots Landing”) provides the voice of Jake’s greedy Cousin Mel and recording artist Elmo Shropshire provides the narration.
ONE-HOUR SPECIAL
“GREATEST HOLIDAY COMMERCIALS COUNTDOWN” (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET)
(Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
A CELEBRATION OF THE BEST HOLIDAY COMMERCIALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD ─ Comedians Heather McDonald (“Chelsea Lately”) and Matt Weinhold (“The Dish”) host this holiday celebration with a countdown of the 12 best holiday commercials ever – one for each of the 12 days of Christmas. In addition to the top 12, the special features other great commercials from both the U.S. and abroad, that capture the true spirit of the holiday season – from the heartfelt to the hilarious, from the outstanding to the ridiculous. The special was directed by Mark Ritchie.
Monday, December 8
“THE ORIGINALS” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)
“The Map of Moments” (Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
FAMILY TRADITIONS — After reuniting with her brothers, Rebekah (Claire Holt) convinces Elijah (Daniel Gillies) and Klaus (Joseph Morgan) to participate in a family tradition from their childhood. Leslie Libman directed the episode written by Marguerite MacIntyre & Julie Plec (#209).
Tuesday, December 9
“THE FLASH” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)
“The Man in the Yellow Suit” (Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
BARRY CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH THE WESTS — Barry (Grant Gustin) enjoys the annual tradition of tree trimming and gift exchange with Joe (Jesse L. Martin) and Iris (Candice Patton). He gives Iris a touching gift, but the moment is interrupted by Eddie’s (Rick Cosnett) arrival. Ralph Hemecker directed the episode written by Todd Helbing & Aaron Helbing (#109).
Wednesday, December 10
“ARROW” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)
“The Climb” (Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
DINAH LANCE RETURNS HOME — Laurel (Katie Cassidy) is stunned when her father (Paul Blackthorne) delivers a very special Christmas gift – her mother, Dinah (guest star Alex Kingston). Thor Freudenthal directed the episode written by Jake Coburn & Keto Shimizu (#309).
Thursday, December 11
“THE VAMPIRE DIARIES” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)
“Christmas Through Your Eyes” (Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
FLASHBACKS TO CHRISTMAS IN MYSTIC FALLS — With the holidays approaching, Bonnie (Kat Graham) attempts to replicate her favorite holiday traditions, while reminiscing about happier times. Michael Allowitz directed the episode written by Caroline Dries (#610).
Wednesday, December 17
ONE-HOUR SPECIAL
“GREATEST HOLIDAY COMMERCIALS COUNTDOWN” (8:00-9:00p.m. ET)
(Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
A CELEBRATION OF THE BEST HOLIDAY COMMERCIALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD — Comedians Heather McDonald (“Chelsea Lately”) and Matt Weinhold (“The Dish”) host this holiday celebration with a countdown of the 12 best holiday commercials ever – one for each of the 12 days of Christmas. In addition to the top 12, the special features other great commercials from both the U.S. and abroad, that capture the true spirit of the holiday season – from the heartfelt to the hilarious, from the outstanding to the ridiculous. The special was directed by Mark Ritchie. Original airdate 12/1/2014.
Thursday, December 18
90-MINUTE SPECIAL
“THE iHEARTRADIO JINGLE BALL 2014” — (8:00-9:30 p.m. ET)
(Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
TAYLOR SWIFT, IGGY AZALEA, MAROON 5 AND MANY MORE IN AN ALL-STAR HOLIDAY CONCERT EVENT — The star-studded concert from Madison Square Garden is hosted by Elvis Duran of Clear Channel’s Z100, New York’s Hit Music Station. Additional musical performers include Ariana Grande, Sam Smith, Pharrell, OneRepublic, Meghan Trainor, 5 Seconds of Summer, Jessie J., Shawn Mendes and Nick Jonas.
Friday, December 19
90-MINUTE ANIMATED SPECIAL
“MR. MAGOO’S CHRISTMAS CAROL” (8:00-9:30 p.m. ET) (Content Rating TBD)
MR. MAGOO STARS AS EBENEZZER SCROOGE IN THE CLASSIC DICKENS TALE — This animated musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved Christmas ghost story stars the nearsighted Mr. Magoo as Ebenezer Scrooge. Featuring the voice of Jim Backus as Magoo, with voice-over appearances by Paul Frees, Morey Amsterdam, Joan Gardner, and Jack Cassidy, this original version of the 1962 special was the first animated holiday program ever produced for television. The special was directed by Abe Levitow, with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Bob Merrill.
HALF-HOUR ANIMATED SPECIAL
“KUNG FU PANDA HOLIDAY” (9:30-10:00p.m. ET) (TV-G) (HDTV)
A HOLIDAY SPECIAL WITH THE VOICE TALENTS OF JACK BLACK, ANGELINA JOLIE AND DUSTIN HOFFMAN ─ The Winter Festival is coming and Po, the Kung Fu Panda, is asked to host the exclusive formal banquet for all the Masters of Kung Fu. However, the occasion is on the same night as his father’s own party. Feeling guilty and burdened by work he has taken on, Po is unsure which way to turn until he realizes who truly needs him more on the big night. The special was written by Jonathan Groff and Jon Pollack and directed by Tim Johnson.
Monday, December 22
90-MINUTE SPECIAL
“THE iHEARTRADIO JINGLE BALL 2014” — (8:00-9:30 p.m. ET)
(Content Rating TBD) (HDTV)
TAYLOR SWIFT, IGGY AZALEA, MAROON 5 AND MANY MORE IN AN ALL-STAR HOLIDAY CONCERT EVENT — The star-studded concert from Madison Square Garden is hosted by Elvis Duran of Clear Channel’s Z100, New York’s Hit Music Station. Additional musical performers include Ariana Grande, Sam Smith, Pharrell, OneRepublic, Meghan Trainor, 5 Seconds of Summer, Jessie J., Shawn Mendes and Nick Jonas. Original airdate 12/18/2014.
Wednesday, December 24
90-MINUTE ANIMATED SPECIAL
“MR. MAGOO’S CHRISTMAS CAROL” (8:00-9:30 p.m. ET) (Content Rating TBD)
MR. MAGOO STARS AS EBENEZZER SCROOGE IN THE CLASSIC DICKENS TALE — This animated musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved Christmas ghost story stars the nearsighted Mr. Magoo as Ebenezer Scrooge. Featuring the voice of Jim Backus as Magoo, with voice-over appearances by Paul Frees, Morey Amsterdam, Joan Gardner, and Jack Cassidy, the 1962 special was the first animated holiday program ever produced for television. The special was directed by Abe Levitow, with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Bob Merrill.
HALF-HOUR ANIMATED SPECIAL
“MERRY MADAGASCAR” (9:30-10:00p.m. ET) (TV-G) (HDTV)
A HOLIDAY SPECIAL WITH THE VOICE TALENTS OF BEN STILLER, CHRIS ROCK, DAVID SCHWIMMER ─ When Santa and his reindeer crash onto Madagascar it’s up to Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melvin and the penguins to save Christmas. The special was written by Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath and David Soren and directed by David Soren.
Thursday, December 25
TWO-HOUR MOVIE
“THE 12 DOGS OF CHRISTMAS” — (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET) (TV-G) (HDTV)
A HEARTWARMING CHRISTMAS TALE — In this touching holiday tale set during the Great Depression, irrepressible Emma (Jordan-Claire Green) uses dogs to teach people the true meaning of Christmas. The film was directed by Keith Merrill.
Wednesday, December 31
TWO-HOUR SPECIAL
“iHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL – NIGHT 1” — (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET)
(TV-14, DL) (HDTV)
A LAS VEGAS CONCERT EVENT FEATURING TOP MUSICAL ACTS AND CW STARS — This concert extravaganza, filmed over two nights at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, features performances by some of the music industry’s biggest names, including Taylor Swift, Mötley Crüe, Coldplay, Nicki Minaj, Ariana Grande, Zac Brown Band, Usher, Bastille and Steve Aioki. Cast members from The CW’s series will be on hand to help get the party started. Original airdate 9/29/2014.
Thursday, January 1
TWO-HOUR SPECIAL
“iHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL – NIGHT 2” — (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET)
(TV-14, DL) (HDTV)
A LAS VEGAS CONCERT EVENT FEATURING TOP MUSICAL ACTS AND CW STARS — This concert extravaganza, filmed over two nights at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, features performances by some of the music industry’s biggest names, including Lorde, Paramore, One Direction, Iggy Azalea, Train, Weezer, 50 Cent, Calvin Harris, Eric Church and Ed Sheeran. Cast members from The CW’s series will be on hand to help get the party started. Original airdate 9/30/2014.

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.
Movie
Preview: War 2 – NTR Jr. and Hrithik Roshan Collide in an Action Extravaganza This July

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated cinematic showdowns of 2025 as War 2 unites Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr. in a high-octane spy thriller. Releasing in July 2025, this sequel to the 2019 blockbuster War promises to be a game-changer for Indian action cinema, combining heart-stopping stunts, gripping drama, and unparalleled star power.
Hrithik Roshan reprises his iconic role as Kabir, the brilliant and unrelenting intelligence officer. Opposite him, NTR Jr. delivers another powerhouse performance following his success in RRR and the recently released Devara. NTR Jr.’s portrayal in Devara, a gritty and emotionally charged action-drama, has already cemented his status as one of the most versatile stars of Indian cinema. His role in War 2 is rumored to bring an intense, enigmatic energy that will complement and challenge Hrithik’s suave and strategic Kabir.
Directed by Ayan Mukerji (Brahmāstra, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), War 2 is a pivotal entry in YRF’s expanding spy universe, which includes blockbusters like Pathaan and Tiger Zinda Hai. Mukerji’s direction is set to deliver a perfect blend of jaw-dropping action sequences, emotional depth, and a storyline that interconnects the spy universe’s key players.
The combination of Hrithik Roshan’s finesse and NTR Jr.’s raw intensity promises fireworks on the big screen. Both actors have proven their mettle in action-packed roles, and their pairing is already creating a buzz among fans worldwide. The film’s international locales, intricate espionage plot, and adrenaline-pumping action set pieces ensure that War 2 will be nothing short of a visual spectacle.
Having already conquered audiences with his portrayal in Devara, where he showcased his commanding presence and action chops, NTR Jr. brings fresh excitement to War 2. His collaboration with Hrithik Roshan is a casting masterstroke that raises the stakes for this ambitious sequel.
Mark your calendars—July 2025 will be an unforgettable month for Indian cinema as War 2 takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of action, intrigue, and star-studded brilliance.