Month: January 2026

FOOTBALL, music, TV, fashion, food and great nightlife… Manchester has everything you could want from a great city break.

But for those looking to stray off the beaten tourist track, we asked a few born-and-bred locals, including two very famous soap stars, for the city’s best hidden gems.

James Pelham, founder of Manchester Bites Food Tours, which shows visitors around the city on three-hour eating and drinking tours, reveals his hidden foodie gems:

Peveril of the Peak pub on Chepstow Street

This great pub is green tiled on the outside and looks a bit out of place amongst all the new glass offices.

It’s run by the city’s longest-serving landlady and it’s always got a good crowd in. I’ve been going there since I was a teenager.

Rad’s Caribbean on Jersey Street in Ancoats

CITY BREAK

Snap up these Man City ticket and hotel packages from just £129 per person

ONTO A WINNER

Tiny shop becomes hit with Prem stars – as players travel miles to stop there

This hole in the wall Caribbean takeaway is run by the nicest family and offers proper home cooked Caribbean food.

The portions are huge, they really should charge more. In the summer, you can go to nearby Islington Marina and eat your lunch there.

Kabana curry cafe on Back Turner Street

Manchester has a few little curry cafes that opened up in the 1980’s to cheaply feed the growing population of South Asian workers. Thankfully we’ve still got them.

Rice ‘n’ Three (a plate topped with rice and three curries) is one of the best lunches in the city and places like This & That and Kabana fight it out for people’s favourites.

The lamb Karai at Kabana is worth travelling a long way for, but it’s only available on Sundays. 

Great North Pie Company in Kampus

Winner of pie of the year and dozens of other awards, this is a great spot for a quick lunch or a few pints in the summer.

They change a few of the pies up seasonally as well so worth a few visits a year.

The Jane Eyre cocktail bar, Cutting Room Square

A nice little neighbourhood cocktail bar on Cutting Room Square in Ancoats. Good beer and food as well. 

Josh Martin, Founder of Free Manchester Walking Tours, has shown everyone around the city, from the Uruguayan rugby team to Noel Gallagher. Here are his top five hidden gems:

Manchester Central Library, St Peter’s Square

I know what you’re thinking…What’s so hidden about Manchester Central Library?

But there are so many hidden offerings, including the BFI’s media library, interactive history archive, the Henry Watson music library (including keyboards!), and Manchester Visitor Information Centre with a nice gift selection.

Social Refuge on Great Ancoats Street

A coffee shop, bar and bookshop on the blossoming Great Ancoats Street, that hosts regular events such as live music, pub quizzes, comedy, book signings and talks.

Tib Street in the Norther Quarter

Lemn Sissay’s poetry is in the pavement, ceramic birds on the walls, the Northern Quarter’s unique street signage, and a huge mural from Manchester’s ‘City’s of Hope’ street art festival.

Tib Street’s shops include a high-end butchers, hipster coffee, a florist, a buddhist bookshop, vintage sports fashion, and the institution that is Afflecks Palace.

This & That curry house on Soap Street

Tucked away down a backstreet, This & That is the originator of Manchester’s ‘rice ‘n’ three’ curry houses that gained popularity through the 1980s.

For around a fiver you’ll get three incredible curries and rice, as well as a good chat with whoever you end up sat next to on the table.

Mayfield Park

Manchester’s green spaces might be small, but they make up for it with intrigue.

Perhaps best of all is Mayfield Park, which incorporates our industrial heritage, ancient wildflowers, wetland spaces, and play areas that invite the whole family to enjoy the outdoors.

Diane Dernie, the mother of former paratrooper Ben Parkinson, appeared on BBC Breakfast to address Donald Trump’s recent comments on the actions of Nato troops

A mum whose son sustained “catastrophic injuries” while serving in Afghanistan spoke out on BBC Breakfast following Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about Nato forces.

The US president faced widespread criticism after suggesting that Nato troops had “stayed a little back, a little off the front lines”.

Diane Dernie, mother of ex-paratrooper Ben Parkinson, appeared on the BBC programme on Saturday (January 24) to address the claims, describing her reaction as one of “shock” and “disbelief”.

Host Charlie Stayt introduced Diane by noting that Ben is “regarded as the most severely injured British soldier to survive in Afghanistan”, reports the Express.

Diane explained: “Ben was in Helmand Province in 2006, so 19 and a half years ago, when his Land Rover was caught in a landmine explosion. Catastrophic injuries, 37 separate injuries, the loss of both his legs, severe brain injury, spinal injuries, and given a zero chance of survival.

“Ben overcame everything, and now Ben has a marvellous life. He raises awareness, he raises money for military charities and supports his local schools. He has a good and he has a worthwhile life.

“But he didn’t pick up those injuries way behind the front line.”

When questioned about her reaction to Trump’s statements, she responded: “Well, when we first read what he’s written, it was shock. Disbelief that someone could say something so utterly wrong.

“But then, when you actually see the interview, when you see his affect, and you listen to his tone of voice, this man just shows utter disrespect, disparaging the effort and the sacrifice that our troops made. And you just wonder how a man in his position can be so wrong.”

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has responded to Trump’s remarks, branding them “insulting and frankly appalling”.

Speaking to Charlie and co-presenter Rachel Burden, Diane said: “We very much appreciate and agree with everything that Sir Keir Starmer said yesterday, but we want him to address that directly to Donald Trump.”

Charlie asked: “He (Starmer) said that if he had said words like that, he would be apologising. What’s the step you want him to take, Sir Keir Starmer?”

Diane replied: “That’s what he should be telling Donald Trump directly. That he should retract and apologise for his comments.”

BBC Breakfast airs from 6am on the BBC.

San Francisco 49ers legend John Brodie has died at the age of 90.

The quarterback was the 1970 NFL MVP and spent all his 17 NFL seasons with the 49ers.

Brodie led the NFL with 2,941 yards and 24 touchdowns during his MVP season and his number 12 jersey was retired by San Francisco when he ended his playing career in 1973.

“The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise’s all-time great players, John Brodie,” said 49ers co-chairman Dr John York.

“As a kid, my 49ers fandom began by watching John play quarterback on television. He displayed an incredible commitment toward his teammates and his support of the organisation never wavered after his playing days.

“John became a dear friend of mine, and he will always be remembered as an important part of 49ers history. We express our deepest condolences to his wife Sue and the entire Brodie family.”

A new Pentagon strategy document softens tone on traditional foes, China and Russia.

The United States military will prioritise protecting the homeland and deterring China while providing “more limited” support to allies in Europe and elsewhere, according to a Pentagon strategy document.

The 2026 National Defense Strategy (NDS) released on Friday marks a significant departure from past Pentagon policy, both in its emphasis on allies taking on increased burdens with less backing from Washington and its softer tone towards traditional foes, China and Russia.

“As US forces focus on homeland defense and the Indo-Pacific, our allies and partners elsewhere will take primary responsibility for their own defense with critical but more limited support from American forces,” it said.

The new document urges “respectful relations” with Beijing and describes the threat from Russia as a “persistent but manageable” one affecting NATO’s eastern members.

It makes no mention of US ally Taiwan, which China claims as its territory.

The previous NDS, released under President Donald Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden, described China as Washington’s most consequential challenge and said Russia posed an “acute threat”.

The Trump administration’s strategy document takes aim at the past administration for neglecting border security, saying this led to a “flood of illegal aliens” and widespread narcotics trafficking.

“Border security is national security,” and the Pentagon “will therefore prioritise efforts to seal our borders, repel forms of invasion, and deport illegal aliens,” it said.

The 2026 NDS also includes no mention of the dangers of climate change, which Biden’s administration had identified as an “emerging threat”.

Like Trump’s national security strategy, which was released last month, the NDS elevates Latin America to the top of the US agenda.

The Pentagon “will restore American military dominance in the Western Hemisphere. We will use it to protect our Homeland and our access to key terrain throughout the region,” it said.

The document mentions the “Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine”, a reference to the declaration two centuries ago that Latin America was off limits to rival powers.

Since returning to office last year, Trump has repeatedly employed the US military in Latin America, ordering a shocking raid that captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, as well as strikes on more than 30 alleged drug-smuggling boats that have killed more than 100 people.

Trump’s administration has provided no definitive evidence that the sunken vessels were involved in drug trafficking, and international law experts and rights groups say the strikes likely amount to extrajudicial killings, as they have apparently targeted civilians who do not pose an immediate threat to the US.

Caracas, January 23, 2026 (venezuelanalysis.com) – Venezuelan healthcare workers marched to the United Nations (UN) headquarters in Caracas on Thursday to demand the release of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores following their kidnapping by US forces on January 3.

During the march, nurse Betsy Caraballo emphasized her desire for the president’s return “to continue with his public policies,” particularly those focused on the healthcare sector. 

“The empire must release him because this was a kidnapping. He is a constitutional president and the people are calling for his return,” she told reporters. Multiple grassroots and sectoral organizations have staged marches in recent weeks to support Maduro and Flores while condemning their kidnapping.

Upon reaching the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) office, the demonstrators, accompanied by Nicolás Maduro Guerra, the president’s son and National Assembly deputy, delivered a letter addressed to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk.

The letter urged the UN official to publicly condemn both the violation of international law principles and the infringement of Maduro and Flores’ personal immunity and integrity. It also demanded the immediate release of both officials by the United States government.

A day earlier, renowned Argentine professor and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Adolfo Pérez Esquivel requested that UN Secretary-General António Guterres urgently establish a commission to investigate the conditions of detention and treatment of the Venezuelan president and the first lady, who is also an elected legislator.

In his communication, Pérez Esquivel stressed that this expert human rights commission must safeguard the well-being of Maduro and Flores following their “kidnapping” in an operation that “violated Venezuela’s sovereignty.”

Washington’s January 3 attacks saw military and civilian sites bombed in Caracas and surrounding areas, killing over 100 people. Maduro and Flores were indicted on charges including drug trafficking conspiracy, and both pleaded not guilty in their arraignment hearings on January 5. The trial will resume on March 17.

US officials have never presented evidence of the involvement of high-ranking Venezuelan officials in narcotics activities, while specialized agencies have consistently found the Caribbean nation to play a marginal role in global drug trafficking.

Diplomacy for resolving “differences”

US officials followed the January 3 military operation by imposing conditions on the Venezuelan oil industry and vowing to control crude sales for an indefinite period. Simultaneously, Caracas and Washington have moved forward in the reestablishment of diplomatic ties.

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has repeatedly defended the importance of diplomacy. During a televised broadcast on Wednesday, Rodríguez pledged to engage with US counterparts with “no fear.”

“We are in a process of dialogue with the US, with no fear of facing our differences, from the most sensitive to the least sensitive ones, through diplomacy,” she stated. Venezuelan leaders have sought to highlight the legacy of independence hero Simón Bolívar as a guiding principle for diplomatic efforts.

For his part, US President Donald Trump praised the ongoing relationship with the Venezuelan authorities on Thursday aboard Air Force One, hailing Rodríguez for demonstrating “very strong leadership.”

Trump’s comments followed a Wednesday White House announcement that Rodríguez is expected to make an official visit to the US, although “no date has been set.” The purported official trip would be the first by a Venezuelan president to the US in over a quarter-century.

At the same time, the White House continued its Venezuela policies with the appointment of diplomat Laura Dogu as chargé d’affaires at the US Venezuela Affairs Unit, based in Colombia. This unit has been responsible for managing relations between the two countries since the suspension of diplomatic relations in 2019.

Dogu, who is lined up to take over as ambassador if ties are restored, began her diplomatic career in the 1990s. She has served as an ambassador to various Latin American countries over the last decade and succeeds John McNamara, who had held the post since February 2025. McNamara traveled to Venezuela earlier this month to discuss the potential reopening of the US embassy with Venezuelan authorities.

Venezuela suspended diplomatic relations with the US in 2019 after the Trump administration recognized the self-proclaimed “interim government” led by Juan Guaidó as the country’s legitimate authority. Embassies and consulates have remained closed since then. Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello recently stated that efforts to reopen the embassies are “progressing.”

The Trump administration’s January 3 attacks drew domestic criticism and renewed congressional efforts to curtail the White House’s use of military force abroad. However, a War Powers Resolution failed to garner a majority in the House of Representatives on Thursday. A previous initiative was likewise narrowly defeated in the Senate.

The first of its kind nature reserve in West Yorkshire has been named one of the ‘wonders of the world’ to visit in 2026 and it’s a traveller’s paradise.

A stunning nature reserve, whose landscape famously inspired the Brontë sisters, is being touted as a must-see for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

This pioneering nature reserve in West Yorkshire has been making waves after recently being named one of the wonders of the world to visit in 2026 by esteemed international travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveller.

The picturesque reserve was established in May 2025 as part of King Charles’ initiative of 25 National Nature Reserves (NNRs), designed to conserve wildlife and celebrate UK landscapes by providing enhanced protection to the unique topography within these designated areas.

Covering 3,148 acres (1,274 hectares) – roughly double the size of Ilkley Moor – the reserve connects eight natural sites within the Bradford and South Pennines area, including the famous Penistone Country Park in Haworth, once home to the Brontë sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Anne.

The Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve brings together Trench Meadows, Ilkley Moor, Bingley Bog North, St Ives Estate, Baildon Moor, Shipley Glen, Harden Moor and Penistone Country Park, reports Yorkshire Live.

A whopping 90% of the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve’s safeguarded area consists of priority UK habitats such as wetlands, peat bogs, and heathland.

A significant 42% of this reserve is newly protected, with around 58% (738 hectares) of land recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

This pioneering nature reserve is the first of its kind, safeguarding endangered wildlife species such as curlews, adders, and golden plovers by providing them with interconnected habitats and enhanced protection.

Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve, the only UK location to feature on Condé Nast Traveller’s list, finds itself in esteemed company alongside breathtaking destinations like the Faroe Islands and El Salvador’s El Imposible National Park.

The publication lauded the nature reserve, stating: “One of the reigning monarch’s ongoing Kings Series of nature reserves, the Bradford Pennines Gateway is part of a nationwide initiative to protect and celebrate the UK’s natural heritage, enhance biodiversity, and give local communities better access to nature.”

Rather like King Charles himself, there’s something stoic and un-showy about this 1,272-hectare region, resided in, and beloved by, the Brontë sisters and encompassing Ilkley Moor, Penistone Hill Country Park, Harden Moor and Bingley North Bog.”

Characterising the reserve as “landscapes of unhurried drama”, the publication heaped praise on its “undulating moors, wind-polished gritstone tors and views that collapse into long, moody distances broken only by the slow, stately flap of a marsh harrier”. It concluded: “If Britain ever needed proof that the everyday could still surprise, the Bradford Pennines Gateway delivers with quiet aplomb.”

The stunning Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve is the fruitful result of a collaboration between Bradford Council and Natural England, boasting an impressive array of biodiversity set against breathtaking views.

Dubbed as a ‘2026 Wonder of the World’, this reserve is a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, offering an exciting day out discovering its diverse wildlife.

The village in West Cork is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Ireland, thanks to its renowned multicoloured buildings that make the place feel like it’s straight out of a storybook

Looking like something plucked straight from a picture postcard, this charming Irish village offers the perfect retreat, brimming with tranquillity and vibrant hues, whilst boasting easy access to mountain trails and stunning sea vistas.

Nestled in West Cork, the village of Eyeries has earned its reputation as one of Ireland’s most picturesque spots, renowned for its distinctively painted buildings that give the area an almost fairy-tale quality. The settlement is immaculately maintained, with residents taking enormous pride in keeping their streets pristine and their floral displays spectacular – efforts that have earned them recognition in the ‘Tidy Town’ competition over the years.

Beyond its striking architecture, the village is blessed with breathtaking mountain scenery on all sides and captivating coastal panoramas across Coulagh Bay. This prime position delivers magnificent sunsets and serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the Ring of Beara.

Located a mere eight-minute journey from Castletown-Bearhaven, the route connecting them is ideal whether you prefer to stroll, pedal or drive across the peninsula.

This particular circuit tends to see far fewer visitors compared to the Ring of Kerry, providing a much more peaceful experience for those tackling the celebrated 140km shoreline drive.

The bay itself remains wonderfully serene; as something of an undiscovered treasure, it doesn’t draw large crowds of holidaymakers, making it an ideal sanctuary for relaxation.

What’s more, the waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, whilst the pathways hugging the coastline provide excellent opportunities for rambling and cycling, with sweeping vistas at every turn.

The village boasts a delightful selection of places to enjoy a meal, pause for afternoon tea, or simply wander through whilst admiring the vibrant cottages. It’s easy to see why creative types flock here, captivated by its distinctive character and relaxed ambience.

Popular haunts tucked within the village include the classic Causkey’s Bar, O’Shea’s Bar and Murphy’s Restaurant. Given its coastal setting, seafood dominates the menus at local establishments, with diners consistently praising the quality in their feedback.

A visitor who ate at Murphy’s, a local institution operating since the 1950s, posted an enthusiastic review on TripAdvisor. They wrote: “We had a gorgeous night in Murphy’s. Wonderful, attentive staff who even offered to take a photo of us and turned on the lights outside. The food was a real delight- fresh seafood and beautifully cooked meat. Would definitely recommend!”.

Another guest at the distinctive pink-hued Breen’s Lobster Bar and Restaurant shared a review, saying it’s “so worth the wait”. They said: “Would plan my trip around this restaurant for fantastic, highest-quality fresh food, very well priced.

“Our waitress was fab and clearly knew her stuff and advised the fussy young one perfectly. Bonus was almost everything was gluten-free or available gluten-free. Very satisfied customer! Can’t praise it enough.”

PARK CITY, Utah — We’re back at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, now unspooling its final edition in a distinctly unsnowy Park City before it relocates to Boulder, Colo. in 2027. What hasn’t changed? Our capacity to get excited for some of the year’s strongest independent cinema: documentaries, dramas, midnight films, even a Charli XCX sighting or two.

How to make the best use of the festival? We’ve got daily recommendations for what to watch, critical diaries, videos and a steady stream of screening notes, interviews and events. Also, we’ll be updating this gallery through Monday with all the best portraits from the L.A. Times Studio @ Sundance Film Festival presented by Chase Sapphire Reserve. Plus, check out all of our video interviews and live panels on our Sundance home page. Happy festing!

Dave Franco of “The Shitheads”.

Kiernan Shipka, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Dave Franco, Macon Blair, seated, and Nicholas Braun, on the floor, of “The Shitheads.”

Domhnall Gleason of “The Incomer.”

Left to right, Gayle Rankin, Domhnall Gleason, Grant O’Rourke, Louis Paxton of “The Incomer.”

Chris Pine of “Carousel.”

Left to right, Abby Ryder Fortson, Rachel Lambert, Chris Pine and Jenny Slate of “Carousel.”

Jenny Slate of”Carousel.”

Left to right, Joe Bird, Mia Wasikowska, Adrian Chiarella, Stacy Clausen of “Leviticus.”

Joe Bird, left, and Stacy Clausen of “Leviticus.”

Left to right, back row, Moon Choi and Jefferson White. Front row, Stephanie Ahn, and Son Sukku of “Bedford Park.”

Left to right, Midori Francis, Danielle Macdonald, Natalie Erika James and Madeleine Madden of “Saccharine.”

Keegan-Michael Key of “Buddy.”

Left to right, back row, Topher Grace, Casper Kelly, center, and Delaney Quinn. Front row, Cristin Milioti and Keegan-Michael Key of “Buddy.”

Cristin Miliot of “Buddy.”

Left to right, back row, Adriana Paz, Eme Malafe and Guillermo Alonso. Front row, Suzanne Andrews Correa and Jennifer Trejo of “The Huntress.”

Directors Hossein Keshavarz, Maryam Ataei of “The Friends House is Here.”

Left to right, back row, Cooper Hoffman, Mason Gooding, center row, Gregg Araki, Olivia Wilde, seated, and Chase Sui Wonders of “I Want Your Sex.”

Left to right, Catalina Ruiz-Navarro, Brittany Higgins, Selina Miles, Jennifer Robinson, and Blayke Hoffman of “Silenced.”

John Wilson of “The History of Concrete.”

Left to right, back row, Hannah Lynch, Yvette Parsons, Arlo Green, Jackie van Beek and Jonny Brugh. Front row, THUNDERLIPS of “Mum, I’m Alien Pregnant.”

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1. Hannah Lynch and Arlo Green. 2. THUNDERLIPS of “Mum, I’m Alien Pregnant.”

Left to right, back row, Alejandro Edda, Alberto Guerra and Mao Nagakura. Front row, Kimberly Parker Zox, and Josef Kubota Wladyka of “Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty.”

Left to right, Judd Apatow, Maria Bamford and Neil Berkeley of “Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story.”

Barbara Kopple of “American Dream.”

Left to right, back row, B.K. Cannon, Jim Cummings, PJ McCabe, Nicolette Doke. Front row, Jon Rudnitsky, Shereen Lani Younes, Shaun J. Brown of “The Screener.”

Left to right, back row, Angga Yunanda, Chicco Kurniawan and Anggun. Middle row, Maudy Ayunda and Wregas Bhanuteja. Bryan Domani, center front, of “Levitating.”

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo expects to be out for about four to six weeks with a calf injury.

Antetokounmpo played 32 minutes of his side’s 102-100 defeat by the Denver Nuggets on Friday before coming off in the final minute of the game.

“Probably the next steps will be, go to [an] MRI tomorrow,” said the 31-year-old, who produced 22 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists against the Nuggets.

“After the MRI, they’ll tell me, probably, I popped something in my calf, in my soleus, something. They’ll probably give me a protocol of four to six weeks that I’ll be out.

“This is from my experience being around the NBA.”

He added: “After that, I’m going to work my butt off to come back. That will probably be the end of February, beginning of March.”

I can’t remember when my terror of waves began in earnest. Maybe it was a singular incident that triggered it, like that monster wave in Biarritz, France, almost 20 years ago that body-slammed me on to the seabed, taking all the skin off my chin.

More likely is that my transition from fearless to frightened had been more of a slow creep, and a perfectly rational one when you consider the danger of riptides, hidden rocks, sharks and concussion. But for me, I feel it goes deeper. Almost inevitably my job will have had something to do with this. Nearly two decades of working as a journalist reporting on the very worst things that human beings can do to other human beings in a wide array of contexts has definitely eroded my sense that I can keep myself – and others – safe from harm in a dangerous world.

Air France and KLM announce pauses as Trump says ‘armada’ of US warships heading towards Middle East.

At least two European airlines have suspended flights to cities in the Middle East, with Air France saying it will temporarily stop service to Dubai as it continues to monitor the “geopolitical situation”.

Dutch airline KLM also halted flights until further notice to cities in Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia and would not fly through the airspace of several countries in the region, including Iraq and Iran, according to the Netherlands’ state broadcaster NOS.

France’s national carrier Air France told the AFP news agency in a statement on Friday that it was making the changes “due to the current situation in the Middle East”, adding that “the company has decided to temporarily suspend its service to Dubai”.

“Air France is monitoring the situation in real time and will provide further updates on its flight schedule,” the French airline said.

KLM told public broadcaster NOS on Friday that it had suspended flights until further notice to Tel Aviv, Dubai, Dammam and Riyadh and would not fly through the airspace of Iraq, Iran, Israel and several countries in the Gulf.

The airline did not disclose the reason for the suspensions and said it was in touch with Dutch authorities, according to NOS.

The latest flight disruptions come as United States President Donald Trump said on Thursday that a “big force” of US warships he described as an “armada” was heading towards the Gulf region, days after appearing to back away from threats of military action against Iran over a recent crackdown on antigovernment protests.

“We’re watching Iran,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he flew back from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

“You know we have a lot of ships going that direction, just in case … We have a big force going toward Iran,” he said.

The schlocky dystopian action thriller “Mercy” touts itself as having been “filmed for Imax,” but that’s not such a selling point when almost the entire film is a dim close-up of Chris Pratt strapped to a chair. This real-time AI mystery is a mashup of “Judge Dredd” and “Searching,” in which a Los Angeles detective (Pratt) has to prove himself innocent of murder during a 90-minute trial conducted by an artificially intelligent system called Mercy, presided over by an entity known as Judge Maddox (Rebecca Ferguson).

Written by Marco van Belle and directed by Russian action auteur Timur Bekmambetov, “Mercy” is a remarkably — though perhaps not surprisingly — conservative film, one that manages to be both pro-cop and pro-AI. It uncritically presents a city that has been rapidly transformed into a militarized surveillance state, with a judicial system run by robots serving as judge, jury and executioner. But hey, crime is down, or at least cordoned off in the Hollywood “Red Zone.”

Detective Chris Raven (Pratt), one of the first cops to utilize Mercy to try a murder case, finds himself on the wrong side of the law when his wife (Annabelle Wallis) is found stabbed to death at home; he is located blackout drunk at a bar at 11 a.m. Raven wakes up already inside the Mercy system with 90 minutes to prove his innocence or at least get his probability of guilt under 92% and avoid instant death. He has the entire AI surveillance apparatus at his fingertips, including police bodycam footage, video doorbells and social media accounts connected to the “municipal cloud,” and he gets the option to phone a friend, like his partner, Jaq (Kali Reis), distraught daughter Britt (Kylie Rogers) and sponsor Rob (Chris Sullivan), to try and pull the pieces together.

Of course all of this material is to make the film more cinematic, because watching Pratt and Ferguson talk to each other when they aren’t even in the same room isn’t all that compelling, filmed for Imax or not. But Bekmambetov and cinematographer Khalid Mohtaseb, as well as a team of six editors, have stitched together the shaky camera footage and the hands-free interface into a visual “surfing the web” aesthetic that can only be described as stomach-churning. Don’t sit too close to this one — the quick swiping through bodycam and cellphone footage on a huge screen is migraine-inducing. (Fine, I guess there are two ways to describe it.)

Since the film is a little over 90 minutes, our street-smart detective, who has relied on his gut and the terrifyingly invasive AI tools throughout the trial, is finally liberated from the chair in the third act, as the twisty-turny tale morphs into an attack on Mercy itself. There is some excellent location shooting in downtown Los Angeles during the climax, seen through the lens of a bodycam or quadcopter or drone camera. It’s not enough to save the aesthetic of the entire film, though, which is somehow both gray and nauseating.

“Mercy” essentially argues that it’s the people behind the prompts who make artificial intelligence work (or not). Every person and system is fallible, but there’s no substitute for instinct — can a robot achieve that kind of intelligence? The film presents a fable in which a cop and a machine find their way through the maze of this mystery, essentially arguing that law enforcement should have access to this kind of surveillance, which is a concept more sickening than the jiggly found footage.

One would hate to see the carbon footprint of these AI trials. It’s laughable to suggest that the biggest problems of a near-future Los Angeles using an AI-powered judicial system would be a few scruffy Hollywood meth dealers — how would the city even have enough drinking water if it’s serving all those data centers? Perhaps those are the more pertinent questions, but “Mercy” doesn’t choose to engage with them.

Kelly: If you could relive one match from your career, what would it be?

Joao: When I won the league with Sporting it was during Covid times and we didn’t have the supporters in the stands. The game that gave us the title was when we beat Boavista. Everyone inside the dressing room felt that moment meant our names could be written in the history of the club and that probably was the most special game. I had also other ones, you know, like when I made my debut in the Premier League against Liverpool, which was a draw against them at Craven Cottage… that was really special as well. My game here against Manchester City when I scored my first goal for Tottenham that was really special too. I have a few!

Kelly: What’s been the toughest moment of your career?

Joao: Probably the time that I had at Bayern, I would say. I expected to play more when I went there but after the injury it was not easy for me to get the right chances.

Kelly: Moving away from football, tell me what it was like growing up in your house…

Joao: I’m a family person. I’m a proud father, proud son. I think in our lives, what we need is to give the right value to the family, because I couldn’t reach anything in my life without them. I have two boys – I’m a really proud dad and it’s the best feeling that you can have.

Kelly: What was a young Joao like? How would your parents maybe describe you?

Joao: At school I was not probably the best student but I always had the effort, you know, the commitment to learn. I think this is not just on the pitch, but also off the pitch. I always have been a respectful person with the right principles of family, and values as well.

Kelly: How do you escape from football in your time off?

Joao: Depends if my family is here or not but usually I like to spend my day off… if I don’t go to Portugal or they are here, I like to go to the city or a garden with them when the weather is good, which is something not particularly easy here! But yeah, enjoy it with family.

Kelly: Do you have any hobbies?

Joao: I like to play tennis but I don’t do it much because I can’t [because of the risk of getting injured]. We have a lot of golfers in the team but I like more active sports… movement. Golf is too lazy for me! I think for the mind it is good, but for the body, for me, I think is not the right sport.

Jan. 23 (Asia Today) — South Korean police took 73 nationals into custody Friday after they were forcibly repatriated from Cambodia on a chartered flight over alleged involvement in large-scale online scams and other crimes.

Korean Air flight KE9690 departed Phnom Penh and landed at Incheon International Airport at about 9:41 a.m., according to officials. It was South Korea’s fourth group repatriation of criminal suspects by charter flight and the largest return from a single country.

Authorities said arrest warrants had already been issued and were executed as the suspects boarded the aircraft. Under South Korea’s Nationality Act, the interior of a national carrier is treated as Korean territory for legal purposes, allowing warrants to be served during the flight process.

The suspects were then escorted from the airport to police units in multiple jurisdictions for questioning and further investigation.

Investigators allege the group defrauded about 869 South Korean victims of roughly 48.6 billion won ($33.6 million). Seventy suspects face fraud-related allegations, including romance scams and investment chat room schemes, while three are accused of other crimes including robbery and illegal gambling, officials said.

Among those repatriated was a couple accused of running a romance scam operation that used deepfake technology to pose as fictitious personas, allegedly taking about 12 billion won ($8.3 million) from 104 victims. Authorities said the pair attempted to evade capture, including by altering their appearance, and were not included in a previous repatriation in October.

Officials also cited a suspect accused of posing as an investment expert and allegedly taking about 19.4 billion won ($13.4 million), with victims including recent graduates and retirees.

Authorities said suspects were apprehended in multiple Cambodian locations and that seven scam compounds were identified. South Korean officials also said some victims, including men in their 20s who were allegedly confined and abused at the sites, were rescued.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

We found a relaxing spa break surrounded by nature at this family-run North Yorkshire hotel, where you can enjoy impressive views, locally sourced food and fun outdoor activities

Down a scenic country road near Skipton, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, is the vast 1,000-plus acre family-owned estate that is home to The Coniston Hotel. Here you’ll receive a warm Yorkshire welcome – upon check-in and throughout your stay. It’s the ideal getaway for those looking to combine outdoor adventures with downtime spent in the award-winning spa.

The Dales are The Coniston’s top-level rooms, which are modern and roomy and open out onto a private patio area with peaceful views out over the estate.

Dinner at The View restaurant uses Yorkshire produce as much as possible – including venison and livestock from the estate – with cute notes on the menu about its local suppliers. Portions are reassuringly hearty and we found plenty of options for two vegetarians.

The spa at The Coniston Hotel

The Nàdarra Spa is a short distance from the main building. You can make the dash in your robe and slippers if you wish (the hotel staff jokingly call this “free cold therapy”), or there are changing facilities inside.

There’s an indoor pool (pleasingly adults-only except between 9am and 10am), an aromatherapy steam room and three different saunas, but it’s worth braving another few chilly steps outside to one of the two outdoor infinity hydropools. These give stunning views over the estate’s lake, best enjoyed with a drink in hand ordered from the passing spa staff.

Top treatment at The Coniston Hotel

We booked the Mum To Be Cocoon treatment (from £95) which uses luxurious Ishga oils enriched with seaweed from the Scottish Hebrides. It started with a back massage lying on our side, before turning over to get our legs, arms, neck and scalp gently but effectively worked on. It’s tricky to get comfortable during the later stages of pregnancy, but we felt ourselves nearly drifting off during this, even while basically sitting upright.

What else is there to do at The Coniston Hotel?

This isn’t really the sort of hotel where you spend your time lounging about by log fires. It’s a place to get out and about in your wellies and Barbour jackets and make the most of the incredible countryside around you. The Coniston’s on-site activities include fishing, clay pigeon shooting at the well-equipped range and – the one we opted for – Land Rover driving experiences. It was a brilliant hour spent taking the high-spec car off-road around the estate’s rugged terrain, guided by our jolly instructor Bob.

How much does it cost to stay at The Coniston?

Rooms at The Coniston Hotel start from £129 (room only). The One-Hour Land Rover Taster Experience costs £150 for two people.

A British bloke who goes on holiday to Benidorm five times a year decided to visit a brand new destination for the first time in years but he says he will not make the same mistake again

A Brit who “turned his back” on his beloved Benidorm to finally try a new holiday destination instantly regretted it – and vowed to stick to what he knows best from now on.

James O’Brien, a self-employed investment trader from Reading, visits the popular Spanish resort five times a year. But this month the 39-year-old took a trip to Benalmadena, another Costa del Sol resort, to see if the grass was greener.

However, he then went viral on Facebook after writing a post explaining that “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it”.

He said his holiday was “boring” and all he imagined throughout his underwhelming trip was “wish we just went Benidorm” and “imagine if we was in Benidorm now”.

James explained there was a lack of entertainment, bars, atmosphere and that the walk along the “depressing looking beach” was ruined further by being next to a busy road.

Signing off his humorous post, he said: “Yes it’s January but if we was in Benidorm at least we would have had plenty of entertainment, nice walks, nice beaches, plenty to do/explore and could get a kebab at 3am. Just confirms how much we love Benidorm and how much it has to offer. We won’t be making this mistake again!”

After his post got picked up by various Benidorm pages, James had a quick chat with the Mirror about why he loves the Costa Blanca resort and why he was compelled to make the post.

He said: “I felt I had to write something as I turned my back on Benidorm for the first time in years and it backfired on me.

“I first visited Benidorm in 2015 and fell in love with the place. I have lived there and have been going back around five times per year ever since. I have been lucky enough to have visited various other places over the years but Benidorm just has something special that I have never found anywhere else, I just feel at home when I’m there.”

James added that the entertainment was “unbelievable” both day and night and that it goes on 365 days a year. He said the people were all friendly and that everyone there simply wanted to enjoy a good time.

In the past, he used to go just for the strip, but the more he went, the more he realised how big Benidorm really was.

He now also spends time in the Old Town which is a “different world” to the strip where he takes in the architecture while visiting wine bars and eating tapas.

The holiday lover explained that past the Old Town was the Poniente side where there are two stunning beaches before adding that the Rincon de Loix neighbourhood offers family friendly entertainment, hotels and restaurants.

He added: “I could keep going, the place is huge and has so much to offer and caters for all different tastes and ages, you really could have two or three different holidays in one as there is so much to do and experience.”

The spot James hated, Benalmedena, is roughly five hours from Benidorm and just outside Malaga.

The picturesque coastal town has amusement parks, a harbour, aquarium and plenty of bars and nightlife. But this clearly, according to James anyway, has no match on Benidorm.

Welcome to Bunker Talk. This is a weekend open discussion post for the best commenting crew on the net, in which we can chat about all the stuff that went on this week that we didn’t cover. We can also talk about the stuff we did or whatever else grabs your interest. In other words, it’s an off-topic thread.

This week’s second caption reads:

U.S. Navy Adm. Rich Correll, commander, U.S. Strategic Command, enters a launch control center at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, Dec. 15, 2025. Correll took command of USSTRATCOM on Dec. 5, 2025, after serving as the deputy commander for three years. Malmstrom is the first missile base he has visited in his new position. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jack Rodriguez Escamilla)

Also, a reminder:

Prime Directives!

• If you want to talk politics, do so respectfully and know that there’s always somebody that isn’t going to agree with you. 
• If you have political differences, hash it out respectfully, stick to the facts, and no childish name-calling or personal attacks of any kind. If you can’t handle yourself in that manner, then please, discuss virtually anything else.
• No drive-by garbage political memes. No conspiracy theory rants. Links to crackpot sites will be axed, too. Trolling and shitposting will not be tolerated. No obsessive behavior about other users. Just don’t interact with folks you don’t like. 
• Do not be a sucker and feed trolls! That’s as much on you as on them. Use the mute button if you don’t like what you see.  
• So unless you have something of quality to say, know how to treat people with respect, understand that everyone isn’t going to subscribe to your exact same worldview, and have come to terms with the reality that there is no perfect solution when it comes to moderation of a community like this, it’s probably best to just move on. 
• Finally, as always, report offenders, please. This doesn’t mean reporting people who don’t share your political views, but we really need your help in this regard.

A HOTEL cleaner charged with selling Liam Payne cocaine has praised the tribute song penned by his One Direction bandmate Louis Tomlinson.

On track Dark To Light, from his new album, Louis asks if he could have done more to help someone in need.

Ezequiel David Pereyra, who worked at the Buenos Aires hotel where Liam, 31, fell to his death in October 2024, said: “He’s right. We all could have done more.”

The 22-year-old Argentine added: “If the hotel had acted differently, Liam could have been saved.

“What happened was very sad. Liam’s death was truly tragic and could have been prevented.”

Pereyra was charged with supplying drugs in January 2025 and sent to Marcos Paz jail to await trial.

LOVE OF LIAM

Emotional Louis Tomlinson pays heartbreaking tribute to Liam Payne on new song

HIDDEN MESSAGE

Harry Styles pays tribute to late One Direction bandmate Liam Payne

On December 30 he was released under house arrest after the court of appeals agreed he had family support, a fixed address and no criminal record.

He is now being represented by a new lawyer.

He told The Sun: “I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to be with my family and I am trying to handle all this as best as I can.”

Waiter Braian Nahuel Paiz, 25, is also accused of supplying cocaine.

It doesn’t look like there’s going to be a trial any time soon. This could take years.

Source

He was released under house arrest two weeks before Pereyra and mum Sandra said: “I still can’t believe he’s with me.”

Both men face 15 years in jail if convicted.

A trial date has yet to be set and sources said it is unlikely there will be one this year — causing fresh heartache for Liam’s family.

The evidence is being re-examined by judges who will decide whether the case can proceed.

A source said: “They still haven’t been able to agree which is why they had to release Pereyra and Paiz.

“They can’t keep them behind bars awaiting a trial forever.

“It doesn’t look like there’s going to be a trial any time soon. This could take years.”

‘Biggest mistake’

In October, on the anniversary of Liam’s death, Pereyra exclusively spoke to The Sun from jail for the first time offering his ­condolences to the star’s family.

He claimed bosses at the CasaSur Palermo hotel turned a blind eye to Liam’s drug use in the month he died.

He said: “They had him in an isolated bunker and let him do anything he wanted including drugs in the room, and public areas.

“Bosses said he was making them too much money, triple the money.

“The biggest mistake was not calling an ambulance when Payne passed out in the lobby.”

Liam had flown out with girlfriend Kate Cassidy for a five-day holiday, to see his ex-1D bandmate Niall Horan in concert.

Liam extended the trip but Kate returned to the US.

An autopsy confirmed he died from multiple trauma and internal and external bleeding.

Toxicology reports revealed alcohol, cocaine and an antidepressant.

Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has not been told to find a new club this summer, Arsenal eye summer move for Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, while Liverpool are set to battle Bayern Munich for RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.

England right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has not been told to leave Real Madrid, despite reports in Spain suggesting new manager Alvaro Arbeloa has urged the 27-year-old to find a new club this summer. (Mail) , external

Arsenal are exploring the possibility of launching a summer move for 25-year-old Atletico Madrid and Argentina forward Julian Alvarez. (ESPN) , external

Bayern Munich will have competition from Liverpool in the race to sign Ivory Coast forward Yan Diomande, 19, from RB Leipzig. (Bild – in German), external

Liverpool‘s English defender Joe Gomez, 28, is wanted by AC Milan. (Calciomercato – in Italian), external

West Ham have rejected a bid worth £32.9m plus £3m in add-ons from Flamengo for 28-year-old Brazil midfielder Lucas Paqueta. (Athletic – subscription required) , external

Crystal Palace and England midfielder Adam Wharton, 21, and Brighton and Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba, 22, have emerged as more realistic targets for Manchester United than Nottingham Forest and England midfielder Elliot Anderson, 23, who they believe will join Manchester City. (The I – subscription required) , external

Liverpool are looking to bring Greece left-back Kostas Tsimikas, 29, back from his loan at Roma. (Talksport) , external

Chelsea have made initial approach to Juventus to discuss a loan deal for 27-year-old Brazilian midfielder Douglas Luiz, who is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest. (Fabrizio Romano), external

Rennes will target Toulouse’s English centre-back Charlie Cresswell, 23, should 20-year-old French defender Jeremy Jacquet leave them for Chelsea. (Florian Plettenberg), external

Barcelona will attempt to ward off interest in attacking midfielder Fermin Lopez by offering the 22-year-old Spaniard a new contract. (Sport – in Spanish), external

Brighton have made 19-year-old English winger Tommy Watson available for loan, with several clubs in the Championship and one in the Premier League interested. (Sky Sports), external

Jan. 23 (Asia Today) — Osaka Prefectural Police arrested six Chinese nationals on suspicion of running unlicensed taxi services for Chinese tourists by abusing permits intended for welfare taxi operations, Japanese media reported.

Investigators said the suspects used vehicles bearing green license plates similar to regular taxis to pick up Chinese travelers at Kansai International Airport and drive them to destinations in Osaka and Kyoto. Authorities allege the group earned more than 30 million yen (about $192,000) in illegal proceeds over about a year and a half.

Police said the scheme exploited Japan’s welfare taxi system, which is meant to transport patients or people with disabilities, not general passengers. Officials said the suspects used reservations and payment arrangements through Chinese social media platforms.

Police previously arrested five people by December on suspicion of violating the Road Transport Act. Authorities said the operation was tied to a nursing care service company based in Osaka’s Minami Ward. The firm’s representative director, a 43-year-old woman of Chinese descent, held a limited permit for welfare taxi service, Japanese media reported. She previously received a summary order and a 700,000 yen (about $4,500) fine for a similar alleged violation, the reports said.

In Japan, licensed taxi operators display green license plates, while private and rental vehicles use white plates. Welfare taxi services operate under a special permit allowing transport only for eligible passengers, and their licensing requirements are less stringent than those for regular taxis, authorities said.

Japanese media have reported a rise in illegal passenger transport cases in major regions. The Nikkei reported arrests for unlicensed passenger transport in the Tokyo and Kansai areas increased from 17 cases in 2022 to 33 cases in 2023. In one case cited in media reports, a driver arrested at Haneda Airport allegedly charged Chinese passengers 1,700 yuan, about 35,500 yen ($228), for a ride to Tokyo’s Ginza district.

Crackdowns in Osaka and Tokyo intensified in 2025, with police expanding monitoring of social media activity and stepping up airport patrols, Japanese outlets reported. Similar cases have also been detected in areas including Fukuoka and Yokohama, the reports said.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Hundreds of businesses in Minnesota shut their doors on Friday and thousands of protesters turned out in the frigid cold as part of an economic protest against the immigration crackdown in the state.

The widespread rallies come after organisers encouraged residents to skip work or school and refrain from shopping in a show of opposition to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The ICE operation ordered by Trump administration in the state have been going on for more than six weeks.

The administration has characterised it as a public safety operation aimed at deporting criminals illegally in the country. Critics warn migrants with no criminal record and US citizens are being detained too.

On Friday, about 100 clergy members were arrested at the Minneapolis airport while holding a protest calling on US airlines to refuse to transport detainees arrested by ICE.

A spokesman for the airports commission told the Minnesota Reformer that the arrests took place after the “permitted activity went beyond agreed upon terms” and was to done to protect the public safety and airport access.

Thousands of federal officers have been deployed to Minnesota as part of “Operation Metro Surge”.

The killing of 37-year-old Minneapolis woman Renee Good earlier this month flared tensions across the state and brought condemnation from local officials.

“We want ICE out of Minnesota, and we want ICE out of every state, with their extreme overreach,” said Bishop Dwayne Royster, whose organisation Faith in Action is supporting local partners in Minneapolis during the strike. “We want Congress to stand up and provide oversight to ICE.”

Friday’s marches are thought to be the largest display of opposition to date to the current immigration policy in the state, as thousands of people walked downtown through temperatures of -10F (-23C).

As they made their way to the city’s NBA arena to hold an anti-ICE rally, taking place on the home court of the Minnesota Timberwolves, protesters chanted and played music.

On Friday morning, Minneapolis resident Corey Lamb closed his business, Harriet Grove Botanicals, in solidarity and headed to a protest. He objected to the presence of ICE agents in his city, and was outraged by Good’s death in early January.

He also saw the immigration raids as an economic threat to his business, and others in his community.

“We have a lot of friends that we rely on, we have a lot of businesses that we rely on, in order to make our business work,” Lamb told the BBC.

“When those individuals are struggling because they’re afraid of being detained or disappeared, it has an effect not only morally but economically on what’s going on here, and also in the greater Midwest.”

Lamb’s business was joined by hundreds of others, from restaurants and tattoo parlours to toy stores.

Kim Bartmann is the owner of six restaurants in Minneapolis, including four that remain open in the winter but that she shut on Friday.

While she supports the cause, she said the decision to participate had been a tricky one, given the costs.

“Everyone is in solidarity, but everyone needs to buy groceries and pay their rents,” she said, noting that staff at one of her locations had initially asked to stay open, before deciding the risk of backlash over not participating would be too great.

“Economically, it is a severe blow to my business,” she said.

She said sales at her restaurants, which include Barbette and Gigi’s Café, have already dropped more than 30% over the past three weeks as a result of the ICE operation, which has prompted her to limit her opening hours as customers and staff stay home.

“We have a lot of employees who are US citizens or have paperwork to work in the US who are still terrified to leave their homes,” she said.

ICE’s presence has outraged many of Minnesota’s residents, who have protested against their operations and other federal officers operating in their city.

This week, school officials in the suburb of Columbia Heights announced that four of their students had been detained by ICE, ranging from ages five to 17.

A two-year-old child was also detained on Thursday, while driving home from a grocery store with her undocumented father in south Minneapolis, according to CBS, the BBC’s US partner.

In a speech on Thursday, Vice-President JD Vance called for local Minnesota law enforcement to coordinate with federal officers to carry out immigration enforcement.

Minnesota, and some of its cities, have so-called “sanctuary” policies, which limit the ways that local government and law enforcement cooperates with ICE. The Trump administration has criticised these policies as a threat to public safety.

Meanwhile, a Minneapolis FBI agent resigned this week over concerns about the bureau’s handling of the investigation into Good’s shooting, CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, reported. The New York Times was first to report the resignation.

Tracee Mergen left “in part due to the pressure on her to reclassify/discontinue the investigation” over Good’s death, CBS News reported, citing sources.

The BBC has contacted the FBI for comment.

Earlier this month, US media reported that at least six prosecutors in the Minneapolis US Attorney’s office resigned over the administration’s handling of the federal investigation.