Johannesburg, 28 November 2025: The year-end holiday is almost here, and to celebrate, every day at 5 pm, Studio Universal (DStv 112) will screen a different movie that audiences have loved for years. The line-up includes fan favourites and familiar blockbusters that are as enjoyable to revisit as they are to share. Plus, this channel is open to DStv Access subscribers until 31 December, enabling more people to enjoy the fun.

The films that will be shown are as follows:

Monday 1 December at 5 pm – Drumline: A New Beat

Danielle Bolton, an upper-class Brooklyn girl, defies her parents in order to attend a college in Georgia so she can join – and revitalise – their once-prominent drumline.

Tuesday 2 December at 5 pm – Secret Headquarters

When Charlie and his friends discover that his dad is a powerful superhero, the youngsters will spring into action to defend the secret headquarters and save the planet from a villainous threat. No one said saving the world would be easy!

Wednesday 3 December at 5 pm – On the Come Up

A gifted 16-year-old rapper has aspirations of becoming a star and helping her struggling family. She’s forced to decide if money and fame are more important than staying true to herself.

Thursday 4 December at 5 pm – Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins

Comic star Martin Lawrence plays a popular television talk show host from Los Angeles who reluctantly returns to his home town in the deep South with his wife and son to visit his family. Once there, the celebrity finds it impossible not to fall back into old rivalries, especially when he runs into his childhood nemesis – Cedric the Entertainer!

Friday 5 December at 5 pm – Battleship

Peter Berg produces and directs Battleship, an epic action-adventure that unfolds across the seas, in the skies, and on land as planet Earth fights for survival against a superior force. Based on Hasbro’s classic naval combat game, this explosive blockbuster experience stars Liam Neeson, Taylor Kitsch, Brooklyn Decker and music superstar Rihanna.

Saturday 6 December at 5 pm – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

When NY City is in trouble, it’s up to the four ninja-fighting, pizza-loving brothers to save it. Aided by determined reporter April O’Neil and their wise master Splinter, these unlikely heroes must face their ultimate nemesis – the evil Shredder.

Sunday 7 December at 5 pm – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows

The Turtles are back to battle bigger villains with their new ally, Casey Jones. When supervillain Shredder escapes custody with a plan to take over the world, the brothers prepare to take him on but face an even greater threat: the notorious Krang.

Monday 8 December at 5 pm – Snow White and the Huntsman

In this epic action-adventure, Kristen Stewart plays the only person in the land fairer than the evil queen who is out to destroy her. But what the wicked ruler never imagined is that the young woman she wants dead has been training in the art of war with a huntsman who was dispatched to kill her.

Tuesday 9 December at 5 pm – The Huntsman Winter’s War

Charlize Theron stars as evil Queen Ravenna, who betrays her sister Freya with an unforgivable act, freezing her heart and unleashing an icy power she never knew she possessed. Retreating north, Freya raises an army of Huntsmen with one rule: no two may fall in love. As war escalates between the queens, Freya’s elite Huntsman Eric and warrior Sara – the only woman to capture his heart – must help Freya defeat Ravenna, or her wickedness will rule forever.

Wednesday 10 December at 5 pm – The Karate Kid 1984

Ralph Macchio stars as Daniel, a teenager whose growing pains are made that much more difficult by his arrival in a new town where he must start from scratch and make new friends. He quickly becomes the target of the Cobras, a menacing gang of karate students, who are less than pleased when he strikes up a relationship with Ali, the Cobra leader’s ex-girlfriend. Eager to fight back and impress his new girlfriend, he begs his handyman, Miyagi, a martial arts master, to teach him karate.

Thursday 11 December at 5 pm – Ticket to Paradise

Twenty-five years ago, a couple fell in love and married in a whirlwind, only to divorce five years later. They’d rather never meet again, but their daughter falls head over heels for a young man in Bali and announces her wedding. Determined to stop her from making the same mistake, the exes fly to Bali to sabotage the marriage. With a shared mission, will they rediscover their spark on this tropical island?

Friday 12 December at 5 pm – Free Guy

A bank teller (Ryan Reynolds) discovers he is actually a background player in an open-world video game, and decides to become the hero of his own story. Now, in a world where there are no limits, he is determined to be the guy who saves his world his way before it’s too late.

Saturday 13 December at 5 pm – Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Jim Carrey stars as the title character in this live-action adaptation of the classic children’s story by Dr Seuss. High atop Mt. Crumpet, The Grinch observes the residents of Whoville joyously preparing to celebrate Christmas. He decides he’s had enough of all this happiness, and conspires to steal Christmas from Whoville!

Sunday 14 December at 5 pm – Praise This

Praise. This follows the journey of Sam, an aspiring young singer who dreams of breaking into the music industry. Sam’s ambitions are seemingly thwarted when her father moves them from Los Angeles to Atlanta to live with Sam’s cousin Jess. Forced to join her cousin’s struggling youth choir praise team in the run-up to a national championship competition, Sam seizes the chance to kickstart her own musical career and soon discovers the true meaning of praise as she begins to find her voice.

Monday 15 December at 5 pm – Genie

From acclaimed scribe Richard Curtis comes an enchanting fairy-tale comedy for the holiday season. Melissa McCarthy and Paapa Essiedu star in the story of a workaholic who seeks the help of a magical genie in hopes of winning back his family before Christmas.

Tuesday 16 December at 5 pm – Evan Almighty

Newly elected to Congress, Evan’s life is turned upside-down when God appears and mysteriously commands him to build an ark. But his befuddled family just can’t decide whether Evan is having an extraordinary midlife crisis or is truly on to something of Biblical proportions.

Wednesday 17 December at 5 pm – The Legend of Tarzan

It’s been years since Tarzan left the jungles of Africa behind for a gentrified life as John Clayton III, Lord Greystoke, with his beloved wife, Jane, at his side. Now, he has been invited back to the Congo to serve as a trade emissary of Parliament, unaware that he is a pawn in a deadly convergence of greed and revenge. But those behind the murderous plot have no idea what they are about to unleash.

Thursday 18 December at 5 pm – Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

The fragile peace between genetically enhanced apes and what remains of man is threatened in the thrilling next chapter of the Planet of the Apes.

Friday 19 December at 5 pm – Minions

As it turns out, Minions have existed since the beginning of time. They have evolved from single (yellow) cell organisms into the familiar beings we know, and they live for a collective purpose: to seek out and serve the most despicable master they can find.

Saturday 20 December at 5 pm – Home Alone

When Kevin McCallister is left behind while his family dashes off on a Christmas trip, he is left to defend his family’s home from two bumbling burglars until the relatives return.

Sunday 21 December at 5 pm – The Forbidden Kingdom

Individually, they’ve starred in the most adrenaline-pumping martial-arts adventures ever. Together for the first time, Jet Li and Jackie Chan join forces to create the greatest epic of them all – The Forbidden Kingdom. As ancient Chinese warriors, they must train and mentor a 21st-century kung-fu fanatic who’s been summoned to fight a centuries-old battle and free the imprisoned Monkey King.

With a different option each day, these beloved films offer a festive mix of nostalgia, laughter and pure escapism. Studio Universal invites viewers to make the 5 pm screenings part of their festive holiday, sit back with loved ones and enjoy these stories that continue to hold their charm no matter how many times they are watched.

Studio Universal is available on DStv channel number 112 (including on DStv Access until 31 December 2025).

The post Every Day a New Movie! See Studio Universal’s Festive Line-Up appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 25 November 2025: As the world celebrates the release of the blockbuster film Wicked: For Good, NBCUniversal International Networks & Direct-To-Consumer announced today that Bravo Africa (DStv 124) will premiere a two-part mini-series titled Minnie Gets Wicked, featuring Minnie Dlamini. The special gives fans of the beloved franchise an insider’s look at her time with the cast and the behind-the-scenes from the film’s London premiere.

Minnie Gets Wicked will premiere on Bravo Africa on Friday, 28 November 2025 at 9 PM, with repeats on Saturday, 29 November at 7 PM, Sunday, 30 November at 2:05 PM and 8:25 PM and Monday, 1 December at 10:50 AM. The second part, titled Minnie Gets Wicked: For Good will premiere on Saturday, 29 November at 7:30 PM, with repeats on Sunday, 30 November at 2:30 PM and 8:50 PM, Monday, 1 December at 11:15 AM, and Tuesday, 2 December at 10:30 PM.

Episode overview:

Minnie Gets Wicked

Having missed the first film’s world premiere due to a cancelled flight last year, Minnie Dlamini travels to Los Angeles for a magical Wicked: For Good special access event. Dlamini meets Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande on the iconic Yellow Brick Road set. The three share heartfelt conversations and reflect on how life’s curveballs must not hold us back from our dreams. We follow her exploring Universal Studios, enjoying the attractions and visiting the Wicked pop-up shop, immersing herself in the world of Oz. Minnie Gets Wicked is a blend of excitement, nostalgia and the joy of new beginnings.

Minnie Gets Wicked: For Good

A year after the release of Wicked, Dlamini travels to London and reunites with her childhood best friend Kyra for the grand Wicked: For Good premiere in Leicester Square. As they walk the red carpet and enjoy the premiere, they reflect on Minnie’s journey and the emotional significance of this moment. Minnie Gets Wicked: For Good beautifully captures the full-circle experience, highlighting the bond between Mini, Kyra, and the cast, celebrating the magic of second chances and the timeless power of Wicked.

Wicked: For Good completes the story told by the film Wicked, which was released in cinemas last year, captivating global audiences with its whimsical universe, sublime musical soundtrack and timeless themes of acceptance, belonging, courage, compassion and the power of friendship. Wicked: For Good is now showing in cinemas nationwide.

Bravo Africa is available on DStv channel number 124 (including on DStv Access).

The post Minnie Meets Grande and Erivo: What They Revealed About Dreams appeared first on Alt News Network.

Pietermaritzburg, 14 October 2025: Liberty Midlands Mall has steadily become the centre of entertainment in Pietermaritzburg, offering a wide variety of experiences that go well beyond shopping. From cinema outings and arcade games to go-karting and interactive digital zones, the mall has created a vibrant leisure destination under one roof.

With the only cinema in Pietermaritzburg, Cine Centre is more popular than ever, showing the latest local and international blockbusters on the big screen. Just a short walk away, visitors can enjoy everything from the thrill of go-karting at Wicked Karting to nostalgic rides at Funtubbles and arcade game fun at Fantasia. The popular mall train continues to be a favourite with children, providing a welcome break for parents during their shopping trips.

Blending Entertainment and Leisure

Midlands Mall has also added new experiences that cater to a broad mix of interests. The Virtual Reality Zone draws gamers and tech enthusiasts, while the rainbow rain umbrella selfie spot near RocoMamas and the new angel wings selfie spot at the cinema have become popular photo backdrops for visitors. The mix of sit-down restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and takeaways offers plenty of dining options, whether for a family meal or a quick bite.

Additionally, the mall hosts regular seasonal campaigns, including Easter and Christmas promotions, gaming festivals and artisanal markets that support local makers. These activations add even more variety and reasons to visit Midlands Mall.

Quickly becoming a firm favourite on the Pietermaritzburg calendar, the next Midlands Mall artisanal market will take place next Saturday, 11 & Sunday, 12 Oct. This popular event brings together a carefully selected collection of small-scale makers from across KwaZulu-Natal. From freshly baked breads and raw honey to handmade candles and cured meats, the market highlights the skill, care and creativity behind locally made products.

A Destination Designed For Connection

Lawrence Joubert, General Manager at Liberty Midlands Mall, said, “We have focused on creating an environment that blends retail with entertainment and leisure. Families are looking for experiences they can enjoy together and we are proud to offer a mix of attractions that bring people back for more. Whether you’re here for a movie, a meal or an outing with the kids, there is always something happening at Midlands Mall.”

The mall continues to evolve its offering, with new seasonal entertainment and campaign activity planned throughout the year. For residents and visitors alike, Midlands Mall remains the leading destination in Pietermaritzburg for convenience, variety and all-round entertainment.

For more information on Liberty Midlands Mall and its projects, go to midlandsmall.co.za or follow Liberty Midlands Mall on social media @libertymidlandsmall.

The post Midlands Mall Becomes Top Entertainment Spot in Pietermaritzburg appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 18 June 2025: Courtney B. Vance returns as Franklin Roberts in the second season of the gripping American crime-drama thriller 61st Street, premiering 19 June 2025 at 20:00 CAT on Universal TV (DStv 117). Viewers can expect a potent blend of legal drama, institutional critique, and social commentary as the series resumes its provocative narrative.

61st Street continues its intense exploration of Chicago’s fractured justice system through the story of Moses Johnson, a promising young Black athlete whose life is derailed after a fatal police operation labels him a gang member. Public defender Franklin Roberts, intent on retiring, is drawn back into the courtroom to take on Johnson’s case—a decision that threatens to expose entrenched corruption and systemic racism within the city’s legal framework.

Season two sees Emmy® winners Courtney B. Vance and Aunjanue Ellis reprise their acclaimed roles, joined by Mark O’Brien, Holt McCallany, Tosin Cole, Andrene Ward-Hammond, Bentley Green, and Jerod Haynes.

Produced by AMC Studios, the series boasts an impressive executive production team, including BAFTA winner Peter Moffat (The Night Of, Your Honor), J. David Shanks (The Chi, Seven Seconds), and Hollywood heavyweight Michael B. Jordan through Outlier Society, alongside Elizabeth Raposo, Alana Mayo, Jeff Freilich, and Hilary Salmon.

Audiences can catch the eight-part series from 19 June 2025 at 20:00 CAT, with episodes airing every Thursday until 1 August. Universal TV remains accessible to DStv subscribers on Channel 117 across Africa.

Will 61st Street manage to confront and expose the depths of corruption within Chicago’s justice system? Tune in and decide for yourself.

The post 61st Street With Courtney B. Vance Returns To Universal TV appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 6 June 2025 — In anticipation of the nationwide cinema release of How To Train Your Dragon, the highly awaited live-action adaptation of the iconic animated franchise, Studio Universal (DStv 112) is dedicating June to a comprehensive How To Train Your Dragon channel takeover. This special programming event features an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary and screenings of the original animated films, offering South African audiences an immersive lead-up to the cinematic debut.

Exclusive Behind-The-Scenes Access

Launching on Tuesday, 10 June 2025 at 17:30, Soaring To Life: The Making Of How To Train Your Dragon delivers an insider’s perspective on the film’s production. Viewers will gain unprecedented access to the creative process that brought Berk’s world to life in stunning live-action detail. The special includes candid interviews with lead actors Mason Thames, Nico Parker, and Gerard Butler, alongside revealing insights into the advanced technology and cinematic craftsmanship that underpin this ambitious adaptation.

Back-To-Back Screenings Of The Beloved Animated Classics

To complement the documentary, Studio Universal will screen How To Train Your Dragon and How To Train Your Dragon 2 consecutively on Saturday, 14 June 2025 from 15:00. This curated viewing experience invites fans to revisit the origins of the franchise’s enduring appeal, setting the stage for the new live-action film’s release.

The Upcoming Live-Action Release

Slated for release in cinemas across South Africa on Friday, 13 June 2025, the live-action How To Train Your Dragon brings the enchanting story of Hiccup, Astrid, and the dragons to a new generation. Starring Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, and with Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, the film promises a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant adventure that honours the legacy of its source material.

Don’t Miss This Month-Long Celebration

Whether rediscovering the magic or encountering Berk for the first time, audiences can immerse themselves in the world of dragons throughout June on Studio Universal. Mark your calendars for the premiere of Soaring To Life on 10 June at 17:30, followed by the animated feature marathon on 14 June at 15:00.

The post Behind-The-Scenes: Soaring To Life Premieres On Studio Universal appeared first on Alt News Network.

Pietermaritzburg, 10 March 2025: Following last year’s showdown that drew gaming enthusiasts from far and wide, the highly anticipated Gaming Festival, powered by Game4U in collaboration with the African Cyber Gaming League, returns to Liberty Midlands Mall this year. Taking place from Friday 28 March to Sunday 30 March 2025, the fourth edition of this exciting festival promises an expansive gaming experience packed with virtual reality, esports tournaments, mobile gaming, racing and hands-free Kinect and rhythm games.

Gamers and spectators alike can experience interactive installations and high-energy competitions across two key zones: the centre court and the Wimpy court. Plus, with a value of over R100,000 in prizes up for grabs, including 650 Game4U vouchers totalling R65,000, this year’s festival is set to be more rewarding than ever.

Festival Highlights to Look Forward to This Year:

• Esports Zone: Competitive EA FC 25 tournaments in the Wimpy court, where players will battle it out for top prizes.
• Game4U kiosk: The chance to purchase gaming gear firsthand from the mall’s exclusive gaming tenant.
• Kinect & Rhythm Games: hands-free gaming experiences, including dance and sports-based challenges.
• Virtual Reality Experiences: immersive VR activations to transport players into new dimensions.
• Mobile Gaming: Are you an endless runner? Prove your skills at Subway Surfers.
• Keyboard Rebuild Race: Are you a keyboard warrior? Then show you know your QWERTY from your WASD at the keyboard rebuild race.
• Ready, set, go! If you can keep your race line, prove it in the fastest lap competition.

EA FC 25 Tournament

Esports enthusiasts will have the chance to battle it out in the EA FC 25 tournament, taking place daily in the Wimpy Court from 28 to 30 March. Players will compete in five qualifying rounds, with the top four from each round advancing to the grand final on the last day. The ultimate champion will walk away with a PlayStation 5 Slimline worth R14,000, while the runner-up will take home a VR Oculus Meta Quest valued at R13,000. The third-place finisher will win a racing chair combo worth R9,000 and an EA FC 25 game. Registration will take place daily at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on a first-come, first-served basis and matches will kick off at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, respectively.

Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive esports player, the Gaming Festival at Liberty Midlands Mall is the ultimate place to level up your game. Don’t miss out on three days of electrifying competitions, interactive experiences, and the chance to win big.

For more information, go to https://www.midlandsmall.co.za/ or follow Liberty Midlands Mall on social media @libertymidlandsmall.

The post Level Up Your Game At Liberty Midlands Mall’s Gaming Festival appeared first on Alt News Network.

With new twists and turns throughout the challenges, the villains must scheme, strategise and shade each other for a chance to win $200,000 and the title of “America’s Ultimate Supervillain.”

The villains in Season 2 include:

• Wes Bergmann (The Challenge)
• Teresa Giudice (The Real Housewives of New Jersey)
• Jessie Godderz (Big Brother)
• Richard Hatch (Survivor)
• Victoria Larson (The Bachelor)
• Larissa Lima (90 Day Fiancé)
• Kandy Muse (RuPaul’s Drag Race)
• Camilla Poindexter (Bad Girls Club)
• Tiffany “New York” Pollard (Flavor of Love)
• Safaree (Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta)

Surprise guests include Janice Dickinson, Tori Spelling and former villains Bobby Lytes and Jax Taylor.

House of Villains is produced by Irwin Entertainment. John Irwin, Dave Kuba, Lisa Fletcher and Matt Odgers executive produce.

Season 2 of House of Villains premieres on E! on 5 January 5 at 7:05 PM, with new episodes airing every Sunday until 16 March 2025.

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