Glutathione Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Management - Biology Insights

https://biologyinsights.com/glutathione-deficiency-causes-symptoms-and-management/

Glutathione is a naturally occurring molecule produced within the human body, found in virtually every cell. It plays a broad role in maintaining overall  health and cellular function. This tripeptide, composed of cysteine, glutamate, and glycine, is particularly abundant in the liver. While the body typically produces sufficient amounts, various factors can lead to an insufficient supply, known as glutathione deficiency. This deficiency can impact the body’s ability to perform its regular functions.

The Core Functions of Glutathione

Glutathione serves as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. These unstable molecules are generated through normal metabolic processes and external sources like pollution. Glutathione neutralizes these harmful substances by donating electrons, preventing damage and maintaining cellular integrity. It also helps regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, supporting defense against oxidative stress.

Beyond its antioxidant capacity, glutathione is important for the body’s detoxification processes. It plays a role in the liver, the primary organ responsible for filtering harmful substances. Glutathione attaches to toxins, pollutants, and drugs, making them more water-soluble and easier for the body to excrete. This mechanism is important in Phase II detoxification within the liver, where it helps prepare them for elimination.

Glutathione also contributes to supporting a healthy immune system. It is important for the functioning of immune cells, including T-lymphocytes, which fight off infections. Glutathione influences the balance between innate immunity and inflammation, helping to regulate the body’s response to pathogens. It supports the proliferation and activity of T-cells and helps maintain appropriate levels of cytokines, communication proteins that coordinate immune responses.

Understanding Glutathione Deficiency

Glutathione deficiency occurs when the body lacks adequate levels of this molecule to effectively perform its functions. This can arise from factors that deplete existing glutathione stores or impair synthesis. Genetic predispositions can influence an individual’s capacity to produce glutathione, affecting the enzymes involved in its synthesis and recycling. Variations in genes related to glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) can reduce detoxification efficiency and lead to lower glutathione levels.

Chronic medical conditions frequently contribute to reduced glutathione. Liver diseases, for example, directly impact the organ responsible for glutathione production and detoxification, leading to compromised levels. Chronic inflammation, often associated with various diseases, also increases the demand for antioxidants like glutathione, potentially overwhelming the body’s supply. Conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease are linked to lower glutathione levels.

Prolonged exposure to oxidative stress from environmental toxins, pollution, and certain medications can rapidly consume glutathione as it works to neutralize harmful compounds. Inadequate nutritional intake also hinders glutathione synthesis, as the body requires specific amino acid precursors—cysteine, glycine, and glutamine—to build the molecule. Diets lacking in sulfur-rich foods, which provide cysteine, can limit the building blocks necessary for production.

The natural aging process contributes to declining glutathione levels. As individuals age, the body’s ability to produce glutathione decreases, and its stores are more easily depleted. This age-related decline can make older adults more susceptible to oxidative damage and impaired detoxification. Certain medications, including acetaminophen, can also deplete glutathione stores as the liver utilizes it to process and eliminate these substances. Environmental toxins, such as heavy metals and pesticides, similarly place a heavy burden on detoxification pathways, leading to a rapid consumption of available glutathione.

Recognizing and Managing Deficiency

Recognizing glutathione deficiency can be challenging as its symptoms are general and overlap with many other health conditions. Individuals may experience increased fatigue, a weakened immune response leading to frequent infections or prolonged recovery, and issues with detoxification processes. Increased susceptibility to oxidative damage is also a sign.

Identifying a glutathione deficiency involves specialized blood tests. These tests measure the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), providing insight into the body’s antioxidant status. A lower ratio of GSH to GSSG indicates increased oxidative stress and a deficiency. While direct measurement of glutathione can be complex, these tests offer indicators that guide clinical assessment.

Management strategies for glutathione deficiency aim to support the body’s natural production and replenish its stores. Dietary approaches focus on consuming foods rich in sulfur-containing compounds, which provide the building blocks for glutathione. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, along with garlic and onions, are good sources. Including protein sources rich in cysteine, such as lean meats, eggs, and legumes, also supports synthesis.

Lifestyle modifications play a role in preserving glutathione levels. Regular physical activity can enhance the body’s antioxidant defenses, while stress reduction techniques and adequate sleep help mitigate factors that deplete glutathione. These habits contribute to overall cellular health and can reduce the burden on the body’s antioxidant systems.

Supplementation options are also available. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a common supplement that serves as a precursor to cysteine, supporting the body’s own glutathione production. Liposomal glutathione, a form where glutathione is encapsulated in lipid bubbles, is designed to improve absorption into the bloodstream compared to standard oral glutathione. Direct glutathione supplementation, available in various forms, aims to increase circulating levels.

From the archives: Former first lady Rosalynn Carter discusses husband's 1980 reelection campaign

"Jimmy Carter has always taught me you do the best you can and you don't worry about the criticism," then-first lady Rosalynn Carter told CBS News' Bob Schieffer in an interview on Oct. 30, 1980. Mrs. Carter discussed the Iran hostage crisis, her husband's reelection campaign and more.

#politics #rosalynncarter #history 

CBS News Streaming Network is the premier 24/7 anchored streaming news service from CBS News and Stations, available free to everyone with access to the Internet. The CBS News Streaming Network is your destination for breaking news, live events and original reporting locally, nationally and around the globe. Launched in November 2014 as CBSN, the CBS News Streaming Network is available live in 91 countries and on 30 digital platforms and apps, as well as on CBSNews.com and Paramount+.

Recognizing the Early Symptoms of Liver Disease – Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic

https://family-intervention.com/blog/recognizing-early-symptoms-of-liver-disease/

If people on the street were asked to name the most important organ of the human body, the organs cited most frequently would likely be the heart, brain, and lungs.

The liver, however, is considered the most important organ according to some experts, including well-known medical personality Dr. Oz. It is not surprising that the liver ranks so high in importance among medical professionals, given its detoxifying, infection-fighting, energy-storing, and digestive abilities.

The hard-working liver labors tirelessly in the right upper quadrant of our abdomen, and given its low-key nature (no throbbing, pulsing, or breathy sounds), it’s easily forgotten. In fact, the liver rarely causes pain in the absence of a serious condition. Knowing the earliest signs and symptoms of liver disease is imperative in seeking timely medical treatment and intervention.

Facts About Liver Disease

According to the American Liver Foundation, at least 10 percent of Americans have some form of liver disease. Additionally, the American Liver Foundation reports that hepatitis C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and liver cancer are all occurring with greater incidence.

Alcohol abuse, hepatitis viruses, and obesity – all considered highly preventable – are the leading three risk factors for death from liver disease. Other causes of liver disease include cancer, autoimmune diseases, and genetic or metabolic disorders.

Sadly, symptoms of many liver disorders do not manifest until serious – sometimes irreversible – damage has occurred. A population-based study found that 69 percent of adults with cirrhosis were unaware of having liver disease. Another study found that Hispanic Americans and African Americans are at greater risk for developing liver disease than Caucasians.

Hispanic Americans have a greater risk due to heavier drinking and a higher prevalence of obesity and diabetes, while African-Americans have a higher prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and hepatitis B or C.

Non-Alcoholic Liver Disease

When people refer to liver diseases or damage not caused by excessive alcohol use, they’re usually referring to a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, also known as NAFLD. This condition leads to excess fat gathering in the liver.

Damage caused by NAFLD presents signs and symptoms similar to liver disease by alcohol abuse. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is an umbrella term, with the most common form simply named fatty liver. Causes of fatty liver include:

- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High levels of fat in the blood

Fatty liver usually does not have symptoms and is reversible with lifestyle changes.

A more advanced NAFLD condition is non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this condition, fat growth is associated with liver cell inflammation and varying degrees of scarring to the organ. NASH is a serious condition and may lead to severe scarring of the liver as well as cirrhosis.

Alcoholic Liver Disease

Many people have heard of the signs and symptoms of alcoholic liver disease, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), fatigue, and digestive issues.

Less commonly known signs and symptoms of alcoholic liver disease include:

- Skin conditions such as itchiness, eczema, and psoriasis
- Bad reactions to medications such as antibiotics or pain relievers
- Frequent heartburn and acid reflux

Additionally, alcohol abusers might notice significant decreases in their alcohol tolerance, becoming inebriated more quickly than usual. Alcohol abusers might also suffer more severe hangovers than usual as liver disease develops.

What does Alcohol do to your Body? 

Alcohol, although legal and socially acceptable, arguably has the most profound impact on the human body, both mentally and physically. Alcohol has an effect on many different organs, such as the liver, pancreas, stomach, and esophagus. Alcohol use can cause malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies such as low thiamine. Low thiamine is often found in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a condition that causes mental deterioration, often referred to as ‘wet brain.’

Most notably, alcohol use can have life-threatening effects on the liver. Many alcoholics have an elevated Bilirubin which is responsible for the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Other liver problems are the destruction of liver cells and cirrhosis –  scarring of the liver.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and affects everything from the liver to the heart. It is thought that alcohol and benzodiazepines are the most common substances of abuse that cause death both during use and during detoxification and withdrawal. 

Much time is spent on discussing and researching how alcohol affects the person consuming alcohol. What about its Teratogenic effects? Fetal alcohol syndrome occurs when an unborn fetus is affected by the mother’s consumption of alcohol.

Some of the damage caused is slower than normal body growth and development, palpebral fissures, underdeveloped facial bones, and a very thin and fine upper lip. Alcohol use during pregnancy can also cause problems later in life for the child, such as cognitive issues and maladaptive behaviors.

Stages and Early Symptoms of Liver Disease among Alcoholics

The American Liver Foundation names three types of alcoholic liver disease. These are – in order of most to least severe – alcoholic cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and alcoholic fatty liver disease. The signs and symptoms of these may overlap.

Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

This disease happens when fat builds up in the liver, which causes swelling and impairs liver function. Alcoholic fatty liver disease can occur even after a short period of heavy drinking.

Symptoms are not usually present in this stage, though the American Liver Foundation reports some may feel weak or fatigued or notice discomfort in the right upper abdomen but the damage is still occurring within the liver tissues

With the cessation of alcohol use, drinkers can usually reverse liver disease in this stage. If drinking continues, damage to the liver will not subside and will result in irreversible disease.

Jaundice

Jaundice, the yellowing of the skin or eyes, is the result of excess bilirubin in the body. During the course of normal blood production, the body produces bilirubin excreted by the liver. When the liver sustains damage from alcohol use, it is unable to excrete bilirubin, causing the pigmented substance to build up in the body.

People with jaundice may also experience abdominal pain, flu-like symptoms, and fatigue. The presence of jaundice itself is non-life-threatening, but it often signals an underlying issue with the liver itself.

Alcoholic Hepatitis

This condition can manifest after long-term drinking. This involves inflammation and scarring of the liver, which prevents blood flow in the organ, slowing its essential functions. Even though alcoholic hepatitis might be diagnosed as “mild,” it is a serious condition requiring abstinence from adult beverages.

Severe alcoholic hepatitis can be life-threatening. Left untreated, it can progress to cirrhosis of the liver. Alcoholic Steatohepatitis is a severe form of hepatitis that affects up to 20% of heavy drinkers and can lead to permanent damage and scarring.

The mildest forms of alcoholic hepatitis might not present any signs or symptoms. As the condition advances, signs and symptoms might include:

- Jaundice
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tenderness in the right upper abdomen
- Weight loss

Liver function tests will also reveal elevated liver enzymes. Severe alcoholic hepatitis may lead to abdominal fluid accumulation, cognitive and behavioral changes, and liver or kidney failure. It is imperative you seek medical advice and intervention at this stage.

Alcoholic Cirrhosis

This condition is not reversible, though abstinence from alcohol may prevent further damage and improve some signs and symptoms. In this type of liver disease, severe scarring of the liver is present.

People with alcoholic cirrhosis will almost certainly be dependent on alcohol and require medical treatment and a great deal of support. This scar tissue makes it difficult for the liver to perform its functions properly.

Likewise, people with cirrhosis may experience inflammation of the liver leading to abdominal pain, fat buildup in the liver cells, redness of the palms, shortening and thickening of the fingers, and more. A person suffering from alcohol-related cirrhosis who continues to drink has less than a 50 percent chance of living for five more years.

You cannot live without your liver

The liver is a crucial organ that most of us never think about … unless it fails. By the time a liver stops functioning, it’s too late, and the only real option is hoping you draw the golden ticket for a transplant. Alcoholic liver disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease. Non-alcoholic liver disease can have the same prognosis.

Whether liver disease develops from alcoholic or non-alcoholic causes, it is important to be aware of the early signs and symptoms. Early detection is the best chance of stopping the damage before the organ stops functioning completely.

Liver Spotting

One sunny Tuesday morning, Sonya woke up yellow.

Like normal Tuesday mornings, she put her kids on the school bus and dressed herself for work. But as she began to apply her light-beige foundation, she abruptly stopped. What she saw in the mirror was anything but normal. Her face, arms, and neck were yellowed.

Jaundice is just one of the many symptoms of liver damage. And it can come on suddenly.

Since we can’t see when ugly liver spots develop or the organ discolors or show abnormalities, we must rely on other methods to spot trouble.

Symptoms and Signs to be Wary of for Liver Disease

New research is finding new molecules that may offer new treatments in a cure for liver disease. Experiments, tests, and treatments are continually being explored. Still, the best treatment is early detection.

Your quiet liver does more than you might think, like fighting infection and storing energy.

Some of the signs of early liver damage include:

- Irregular sleep
- Low or fluctuating energy levels
- Skin and eyes developing a yellowish tint
- Skin conditions appear, such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and itching
- Drinking minimal amounts of alcohol inebriates quickly and causes intense hangovers
- The impact of caffeine becomes acute
- Flushing from the trunk rising up to the head
- Experiencing severe reactions and side effects to common medications

When early liver damage creeps up, the body can no longer protect against harmful chemicals. The body stops being able to digest food, remove impurities, filter toxins from the blood and send nutrients where they need to go.

The declining liver also presents with these signs:

- Bleeding or bruising easily
- Stomach problems after eating, such as bloating, gas, and nausea
- Frequent headaches, heartburn, and acid reflux
- Difficulty losing weight or inexplicable weight gain
- A strange urinary smell after eating asparagus
- Chemicals (bleach, perfume, gasoline, paint, cleaning products) cause a severe reaction

In addition to the symptoms of non-alcoholic liver damage, those with alcoholic liver damage often experience tremors.

Amazing Regrowth of the Liver

Bob has an old army injury in his knee that developed arthritis. He took pain medicine for years until, suddenly, he got very sick. After a year’s journey of illness and treatments, Bob received a liver transplant.

Since the human liver regenerates and can return to its original size, Bob’s partial liver failure meant he could receive a partial liver transplant from a living donor.

Bob’s lifespan potential has been increased due to receiving a transplant and the amazing regenerative properties of the liver. However, liver transplants are not easy to come by. There are currently thousands of people on the national waiting list for a hepatic transplant.

The liver has the ability to grow back when damaged, and the body can heal itself in small ways. Lifestyle changes like eliminating alcohol, drugs (including too much Tylenol-containing medications), tobacco, and seeking nutritional therapy can enhance the liver’s natural healing abilities.

Only people who have abstained from all alcohol for a period of at least six months can be considered for a transplant. In addition, all other organs must be healthy, and the individual must be able to undergo surgery. Since alcohol dependency can affect other organs, this may affect an alcoholic’s ability to be considered for a liver transplant as well.

Even with a hepatic transplant, the rate of survival after one, three, and five years declines, respectively.

Non-Alcoholic Liver Damage

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is unrelated to alcohol and refers to excess fat gathering in the liver.

Non-alcohol-related liver disease can be brought on by:

- Inflammation due to an injury or infection
- Hepatitis
- Obesity
- Cancer
- Malnutrition
- Poison
- Medication overdose
- Genetic disorders
- Autoimmune failure
- Diabetes

Non-alcoholic liver damage goes through the same stages as an alcohol-damaged liver. It is the cause of the disease that differs.

Alcoholic Liver Damage

Wanting to give up alcohol? Advanced medical tests, research studies, and scientific knowledge put together a picture of what quitting alcohol can do for avoiding or halting liver damage.

Alcohol abuse is one of the primary causes of liver damage. Alcohol-associated liver disease is the main cause of chronic liver disease in Western countries.

Once you are diagnosed with alcoholic liver damage, there is one key factor:

Abstaining from alcohol is the only chance a person has of recovery.

Stages of Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcohol drains the body of nutrients, affects many organs, and damages tissues.

There are four main stages of alcoholic liver disease, each one worse than its predecessor.

Alcohol Fatty Liver Disease

Heavy drinking can cause fatty acids to collect in the liver, in some cases in less than a week.

Alcoholic Hepatitis

After years of heavy drinking or acute periods of binge drinking, the liver can develop inflammation and swelling. This swelling and inflammation of the liver are known as hepatitis.

Other types of hepatitis can cause non-alcoholic liver disease.

Alcoholic Fibrosis

The third stage of liver disease is fibrosis, a buildup of proteins in the liver. Instead of filtering toxins and breaking down proteins, the liver accumulates too many proteins, resulting in fibrosis.

The newest research indicates gut microbiota play an influential role in liver injury. As we learn more and more about gut-brain health and gut-liver health, researchers point out the abilities of alcohol cessation and dietary and supplement improvements to slow the progression of liver disease.

Alcoholic Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is scarred tissue that takes over healthy tissue.

When the liver has been inflamed for a long time, cirrhosis occurs. This is the stage where the loss of function happens. Cirrhosis can lead to liver cancer and end-stage liver disease.

Alcohol use speeds up the destruction of the liver and reduces its ability to compensate for damage.

Can you Reverse Liver Damage from Alcoholism?

The human body has an amazing capacity to heal itself. At the same time, a limit exists for what it can do. The human body can reverse damage from several types of minor liver damage; however, in some cases, the damage might be permanent. If you can reverse liver damage from alcoholism, it will occur in the earliest stage of dependency.

Cirrhosis is permanent, and you cannot undo the damage that has already occurred. Scarring is permanent, and the liver has lost its previous ability to function normally. However, a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate the risk of further damage.

In other cases, such as fatty liver disease, you can reverse the damage from alcohol. The liver has the benefit of being the body’s only regenerative organ. In fact, if you lost 75% of your liver, it would regenerate to its previous size. When Alcohol Liver Disease (ALD) is in its early stages, it is possible to heal the liver and restore its functioning completely. Improving liver health will require adherence to a healthy lifestyle and a dedication to feeling your best.

How Long Does It Take the Liver to Regenerate?

The liver is a vital organ that has the ability to heal itself, even after years of heavy drinking. In the event that 50-60% of the liver cells die, then the liver should be able to regenerate within 30 days. However, it’s important to recognize that good liver health is an ongoing effort that requires adherence to a healthy lifestyle.

Consequences of Drinking Too Much

Noteworthy, anything that jeopardizes the amazing regenerative ability of the liver puts your life in danger.

The further liver disease progresses, the more dangerous it becomes.

A 29-year-old Californian, Brandon didn’t think he was an alcoholic. After his family held an intervention, Brandon realized his weekend binge drinking was a serious problem. When he went to rehab, his medical team found signs of liver disease, and tests confirmed the diagnosis.

Thankfully, Brandon’s condition was discovered early enough that the holistic and medical treatments he received arrested the damage. Two years later, the young man’s scans showed significant improvement, and thanks to the support he received, Brandon has stayed sober.

Out of mind while chugging down beers and liquors, developing alcoholic liver disease can quickly become life-threatening for anyone.

According to the American Liver Foundation, between ten and twenty percent of heavy drinkers will develop alcoholic liver cirrhosis from repeated and excessive alcohol use.

Five Evidence-Based Alcohol Abuse Intervention

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based treatment that can be very effective in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use causes many cognitive distortions. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps correct maladaptive learning processes that have developed and contribute to alcohol use. 

12-Step Facilitation – Yes, groups like Alcohol Anonymous are effective evidenced-based treatments for alcohol use disorder. In fact, some studies have shown 12-step facilitation having an overall greater impact on continued abstinence and sobriety than cognitive behavioral therapy.

Adjunctive Pharmacotherapy – Medications such as Naltrexone have been shown to reduce cravings in a number of patients with alcohol use disorder. Alcohol has similar effects on the brain to opioids. Medically assisted treatment shows greater efficacy when used in conjunction with other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and 12-step facilitation. 

Motivational Interviewing – MI is a strategy used by clinicians to help the patient with alcohol use disorder see the need for change. When facilitated effectively, motivational interviewing can help the patient move on from the contemplation stage of change into the stages of preparation, action, and maintenance. 

Relapse Prevention is designed to assist the patient in recognizing high-risk behaviors and situations that can potentially lead to relapse. Relapse prevention techniques often include acquiring healthy coping skills to help a substance user navigate through any challenges they may face. Relapse prevention discussion and strategy are often discussed during one’s stay in treatment and again as part of their discharge planning.

Now reading All The King's Men by Robert Penn Warren...

The biggest plot hole in Interstellar?

The gravity of Millers Planet is one of the biggest complaints I see when people talk about the science of Interstellar.

Most complaints will say that you can't orbit that close, or that the tides would tear the planet apart, or that the waves are physically impossible. But most don't realise that every factor was calculated to be as mathematically precise as possible by Kip Thorne himself.

So my plot hole isn't about the science, it's about the logic of the scientists themselves. It's the actions they take with the information that they have.

But...something has to drive the plot and tell the story, so I'm not mad about it. I still think it's one of the greatest science movies ever made.

Read Kip Thornes book!! - The Science of Interstellar.

Let me know what topic you'd like next! And if you want bonus content then join the nerd club on Patreon or through YouTube memberships.

The Cranberry Harvest, Island Of Nantucket by Eastman Johnson, 1880.

'Hathahate' explained. Why did people hate Anne Hathaway? - Spoiler US

https://spoiler.bolavip.com/en/celebrities/anne-hathaway-opens-up-about-online-backlash-in-2013-why-did-people-hate-the-actress

Oscar-winner Anne Hathaway has enjoyed success and enjoying a critical renassaince. However, she still remembers when the Internet was against her between 2013 and 2015. Here's what she said about that period.

Anne Hathaway is set to star in the highly anticipated rom-com “The Idea of You,” alongside Nicholas Galitzine, which is premiering on May 2 on Prime Video. However, she is coming from praised roles in movies such as Eillen and She Came To Me. But, despite all her recent successes, the actress still remembers when the Internet was against her and that cost her several roles.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, Hathaway, 41, said that Christopher Nolan was an “angel” for casting her in his highly-acclaimed sci-fi drama “Interstellar,” despite the online hate she was receiving at the time. She explained that “a lot of people wouldn’t give me roles because they were so concerned about how toxic my identity had become online.”

“I had an angel in Christopher Nolan, who did not care about that and gave me one of the most beautiful roles I’ve had in one of the best films that I’ve been a part of,” she said. Then, she add: “I don’t know if he knew that he was backing me at the time, but it had that effect.” But, why did people hate Anne Hathaway so much? We breakdown the reasons.

Back in 2013, Hathaway was achieving incredible success during the Awards Season. winning a Golden Globe, a SAG, a BAFTA and the Academy Award for her supporting role in “Les Miserables.” However, just in the same vein that people are now criticizing Bradley Cooper for “wanting it so bad,” the Internet decided that she was “inauthentic,” and every little action added fueled the discourse of the so-called “Hathaters.”

Hathaway was (basically) disliked for being “too perfect” and “too happy,” and, of course, for enjoying her own success, a story, sadly, too far common in Hollywood. In her cover story for Vanity Fair, they quote a 2015 Buzzfeed article that sums it up: “When you do everything right and society hates you for it, that’s Anne Hathaway Syndrome.”

However, in her speech for ELLE’s 29th Annual Women in Hollywood at the Getty Center, Hathaway had already talked about how she overcame the online vitriol. “Ten years ago, I was given an opportunity to look at the language of hatred from a new perspective,” she said.

“When your self-inflicted pain is suddenly somehow amplified back at you at, say, the full volume of the internet… It’s a thing. When what happened, happened, I realized I had no desire to have anything to do with this line of energy. On any level. I would no longer create art from this place. I would no longer hold space for it, live in fear of it, nor speak its language for any reason. To anyone. Including myself.”

Apart from “The Idea of You,” Hathaway is set to appear in psychological thriller “Mothers’ Instinct,” remake of the 2018 Belgian film of the same name, along with Jessica Chastain. She will also act opposite Michaela Cole in the upcoming drama “Mother’s Mary.”

Now listening to Lost In The Dream by The War On Drugs and Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure by various artists...

On Cornwall Avenue in Vancouver. Spring of 2019.

Cornwall Avenue is a key east-west street in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighbourhood (often called “Kits”), running parallel to and just south of Kitsilano Beach along English Bay. It forms the southern boundary of the popular Kitsilano Beach park area, with direct access to the beach, seawall path, and amenities like Kitsilano Pool (Canada’s longest saltwater outdoor pool). The avenue features a mix of residential buildings — many low- to mid-rise apartments and condos from the 1920s onward — along with some commercial spots. It’s highly walkable (scores in the 90s on Walk Score), with easy access to shops, restaurants, and transit on nearby 4th Avenue and Arbutus Street. Neighbourhoods/areas nearby include Kitsilano proper, with proximity to Vanier Park, Burrard Bridge, and views of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains.

Cornwall Avenue developed as part of the early 20th-century growth of Kitsilano. In 1904, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) opened land south of the avenue for residential development. Real estate boomed after streetcar service improved access to Kits Beach. Many apartment buildings were constructed along the avenue in the 1920s, including: Tudor Revival styles (e.g., Royal York c.1929, Park Manor c.1929) and red-brick buildings like Melton Court (2310-2320 Cornwall Ave, built 1923 by architect/owner Fred Melton). In the 1930s, low-lying swampy areas nearby were filled in, expanding parkland. Zoning changes in the 1950s allowed more apartments and rooming houses, making the area attractive to students and counterculture residents in the 1960s. The avenue has long been tied to beach culture, with historic photos from the 1920s showing its proximity to Kitsilano (formerly Greer’s) Beach. 

There are many mid-century and older strata buildings (e.g., The Ocean’s Door at 2450 Cornwall, built 1973). Properties here are desirable due to the location. Cornwall Avenue is a prime spot for beachgoers, walkers, cyclists (via the seawall and nearby greenways), and those enjoying Kitsilano’s vibrant, relaxed vibe with parks, volleyball, and summer events like the Kitsilano Showboat. It remains a classic west-side Vancouver street — leafy, community-oriented, and close to nature and urban conveniences.

 

Is Cirrhosis Genetic? Risk Factors and Common Questions

https://www.healthline.com/health/is-cirrhosis-genetic

You cannot inherit cirrhosis from your parents, but some conditions that may lead to cirrhosis can be passed down in your genes.

These inherited conditions, such as hemochromatosis and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, can cause you to develop cirrhosis even if you don’t drink a lot of alcohol.

Read on to learn more about how cirrhosis (a type of liver disease that involves liver scarring) can be caused by genetic conditions, which conditions most increase your chance of developing cirrhosis, and what other risk factors you may need to consider. 

Cirrhosis isn’t genetic.

But some conditions that run in families can increase your risk of cirrhosis even if you don’t have any other risk factors. These conditions result from one or both of your parents passing down certain genes or gene mutations.

Some of these conditions are related to proteins that help your body process substances that are usually removed from your body through natural waste disposal processes involving your liver.

If your liver can’t process substances such as iron and copper, they can build up to dangerously high levels and cause cirrhosis as they damage your liver tissues over time.

Some genetic conditions also make you more likely to develop cirrhosis due to lifestyle factors, such as alcohol use, because your liver can’t process fat properly, causing fat to build up in your liver.

A 2021 study found that variants in the FAF2, HSD17B13, and SERPINA1 genes are all linked to a higher risk of cirrhosis related to fat deposits in the liver.

A 2023 study also found that mutations in the ANXA1 gene can increase the risk of cirrhosis.

These mutations can cause immune cells called T cells to attack healthy liver cells, leading to liver damage. This is called liver fibrosis. Scarred liver cells lose their typical function, and scarring across your liver leads to cirrhosis.

Several genetic diseases can cause cirrhosis.

Hemochromatosis happens when iron builds up to high levels in your bloodstream because your body can’t process it properly. This condition is caused by a mutation in the HFE gene, which helps your body make iron.

Having too much iron in your liver damages liver cells, leading to cirrhosis. Hemochromatosis can also increase your risk of cirrhosis linked to alcohol, diabetes, and heart conditions.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that stops your liver cells from properly processing certain proteins. It’s caused by a mutation in your SERPINA1 gene on chromosome 14.

This can lead to long-term inflammation in your liver tissues that can eventually cause cirrhosis.

Autoimmune hepatitis happens when your immune system attacks healthy liver cells. This can damage liver tissues and cause cirrhosis over time.

It’s not clear exactly which gene might be linked specifically to this condition. But it’s associated with variants of human leukocyte antigen genes that are also linked to other autoimmune conditions, such as celiac disease.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition in a gene on chromosome 7 that makes proteins involved in transporting chloride and water throughout your body.

It’s known to damage cells in the airways and liver, leading to conditions such as lung disease and cirrhosis.

Wilson’s disease is a genetic condition that causes copper to build up in your body because your liver cannot process it properly.

This condition is caused by a mutation in the ATP7B gene, which is involved in how your body uses copper. To develop Wilson’s disease, you have to inherit the mutation from both of your parents.

Other risk factors for cirrhosis include:

- alcohol consumption
- viral hepatitis
- bile duct damage due to conditions such as primary biliary cholangitis
- overuse of medications such as acetaminophen and antidepressants

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about cirrhosis and genetics.

Who is most at risk for cirrhosis?

Genetic conditions aside, people who drink a lot of alcohol over a long period or contract infections that affect the liver, such as viral hepatitis, have the highest risk for cirrhosis.

People who have a genetic condition such as hemochromatosis or autoimmune hepatitis have an even higher risk of developing cirrhosis due to lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption.

There’s also evidence that undergoing bariatric surgery can increase your risk of developing cirrhosis because your gastrointestinal tract doesn’t absorb enough vitamins and other substances from your food. This can damage your liver tissues and increase your risk of cirrhosis.

Do all heavy drinkers get cirrhosis?

Not everyone who drinks alcohol heavily will get cirrhosis. Some people with alcohol use disorder may experience other health effects but may not have enough liver damage to cause cirrhosis.

A 2019 research review suggests that women are more likely to get cirrhosis after consuming just one alcoholic drink per day but that both men and women have a high risk of cirrhosis after five or more drinks per day.

What age is most likely to get cirrhosis?

You can receive a cirrhosis diagnosis at any age, but it’s more likely to develop at ages 50 years and older.

In a 2018 study, researchers examined more than 34,000 cirrhosis deaths between 1999 and 2016 and found that more people were dying of cirrhosis at younger ages, with the greatest increases in people 25–34 years old.

Cirrhosis is not a genetic condition, but several genetic conditions can increase your risk of developing it.

Consult a medical professional if you have a family history of genetic conditions that are linked to liver disease or high blood levels of a substance such as iron or copper.

Airport Security Search - Saturday Night Live

Woman disguises herself as a TSA. Aired 12/11/04

Just finished watching The Devil Wears Prada 2 (2026) and Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard And Soft: The Tour (2026)...

Just finished watching Armed And Dangerous (1986) and The Trip To Bountiful (1985)...

Liver Damage Symptoms That Could Be Trouble

https://www.liversupport.com/10-liver-damage-symptoms-that-could-be-trouble/

The liver is a vital organ that is necessary for several functions critical to our health and well-being. When the liver is damaged and liver function is compromised, overall health begins to suffer. While signs and symptoms of liver damage are not always obvious at first, as the disease progresses and the liver function continues to decline symptoms often become severe very quickly.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Liver is the emotions of anger, resentment, unfulfilled desires, and frustration. When the Liver energy, or qi, is flowing smoothly, the individual is happy and healthy, but when the Liver is out of balance, the qi becomes stagnant.

Symptoms of Stagnant Liver Qi

- distention and swelling in the abdomen,
- depression and melancholy,
- diarrhea,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- epigastric pain,
- reduced appetite,
- sour reflux,
- belching,
- redness in the face,
- fever and constipation.

Even TCM recognizes the impact liver health had on functions like digestion, immunity and overall well-being!

10 Symptoms of Liver Damage

1. Bruising & Bleeding – The liver produces protein factors necessary for clotting, so when liver function begins to fail, increased bruising and bleeding may be noticed.
2. Digestive Problems – The liver plays a critical role in breaking down fats (lipids) and carbohydrates (sugars). When the liver is not functioning properly, digestive complaints begin to surface, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and reflux. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may also be a sign of liver function decline.
3. “Spare Tire” – When the liver is overcome with sugar that the body cannot burn, the liver converts this energy into glycogen, and stores it as fat. This fat tends to accumulate in the upper abdominal area, giving the appearance of the “spare tire” or “liver roll,” which is a roll of fat around the upper abdomen.
4. Swelling & Pain – Swelling, bloating, pain or itching in the right, upper quadrant of the abdomen may be a sign of damage in the liver. Unexplained lumps in this area may indicate a tumor or cancer.
5. Gallbladder Problems – Gallstones and gallbladder disease may be a symptom of a larger problem, as liver disease is the inability to tolerate fatty foods.
6. Jaundice – Bilirubin, which creates the yellowing of eyes and skin, is produced when the liver breaks down old red blood cells and cannot properly divert bilirubin into the intestines for removal. When this happens, the stool becomes pale and the urine becomes dark as the kidneys attempt to remove the excess bilirubin from the body.
7. Fatigue & Depression – The liver is critical in many functions in the body that impact our energy levels and endocrine systems (hormonal). It is not fully understood why, but liver disease has a very high correlation with fatigue and depression and can be associated with a mental “fog” that is commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
8. Autoimmune Diseases – There are several autoimmune diseases and conditions that are associated with compromised liver function, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, skin rashes, allergies, food sensitivities and others.
9. Red Face & Sweating – In Chinese medicine, the liver is associated with anger and “heat,” or fever, redness and an excess of heat. Those with liver damage often appear red-faced with excessive sweating, overheating, and may even have a fever.
10. Type-2 Diabetes – Because the liver is responsible for managing excess sugar that our body cannot use, it is closely associated with diabetes. The liver stores excess sugar (glucose) as fat, but sometimes, when we chronically eat too much sugar, the liver becomes clogged with fat creating a fatty liver (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD).

If you are experiencing symptoms of liver damage, it is important that you discuss your concerns with a qualified physician. The liver is a vital organ and its functions critically impact our overall health.

Canada's tech broligarchs are getting organized too

The tech broligarchs are setting their sights on politics.

No, I’m not talking about what’s happening in the United States. This is right here in Canada.

A group of CEOs, founders and other executives have decided they’re tired of their voices going unheard. This group — one that has struggled with being represented in powerful political arenas — is getting organized. 

(If you didn’t read the sarcasm in the preceding paragraph, please re-read it with the intended tone).

What The Logic recently reported on as a tech bro group chat, “Build Canada,” is now a public platform where C-suite voices will pontificate about potential policy changes they think could help Canada “build again.”

The website is officially LIVE. So I scrolled through. It’s…quite something.

Let’s chat about it.

Now listening to Captain Marvel by Pinar Toprak and Two Dancers by Wild Beasts...

On Bidwell Street in Downtown Vancouver. Spring of 2019.

Bidwell Street is a prominent residential street in Vancouver’s West End neighbourhood, running roughly north-south near the waterfront in Downtown Vancouver. It is located in the West End, one of Vancouver’s densest and most walkable neighbourhoods (Walk Score of 99/100 — a “Walker’s Paradise”). The street runs close to English Bay Beach (one end borders the beach area between Gilford and Bidwell) and is very near Stanley Park, the Seawall, and Alexandra Park. It offers easy access to Davie Village (a lively commercial strip with shops, restaurants, and services) and is steps from the ocean, making it highly desirable for both residents and visitors. 

Many buildings on Bidwell offer stunning views of English Bay, sunsets, and beach life. The area is popular for walking, cycling, and enjoying the waterfront. Located at the southern end (near Beach Avenue), Alexandra Park includes the historic Haywood Bandstand and is a peaceful green space. The street features a blend of older heritage and mid-century buildings (e.g., English Bay Mansions, Imperial Apartments at 1255 Bidwell), modern luxury condos, such as Alexandra English Bay at 1221 Bidwell (a 2013 high-rise with premium amenities and high-end units), and newer rental buildings (e.g., 1188 Bidwell, a pet-friendly beachside rental). 

The street (and nearby English Bay) is named after Edward Parker Bedwell, a 19th-century British naval officer involved in surveying the area. There are several heritage buildings and sites, including early 20th-century structures and former cottages near Alexandra Park (some of which were demolished in the early 2000s). Notable spots include the building at 1209 Bidwell (now JJ Bean Coffee, with historic ties and local lore). 

Bidwell Street is known for upscale and convenient living, with many condos and rentals targeting professionals, empty-nesters, and those who want walkable access to beaches and parks. Properties here often command premium prices due to the location. It’s a quieter residential street compared to busier nearby arteries like Davie or Denman, yet it’s still central to everything the West End offers.

 

Historic Hudson's Bay building in downtown Calgary to be acquired by redeveloper

https://calgaryherald.com/news/downtown-calgary-hudsons-bay-building-astra-real-estate?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-ca

Calgary’s iconic and mostly vacant downtown Hudson’s Bay Building is on the verge of being acquired by a Calgary real estate firm known for property redevelopment.

Court filings indicate Astra Real Estate Corp. entered into a purchase agreement for the 114-year-old building on Feb. 18, with an outside completion date for the deal listed as May 30.

It joins agreements in place to purchase Hudson’s Bay buildings in Vancouver, Ottawa and Windsor that involve different buyers.

A spokesperson for Astra wouldn’t comment on the move “until we take possession.”

The company has been involved in a number of office-to-residential conversions of downtown Calgary, which have included a focus on affordable housing.

The impending Calgary deal could be a major step in preserving cherished elements of the structure in the heart of downtown, after its operations ceased last June with the financial collapse of the historic Hudson’s Bay retail empire.

The six-storey, Chicago commercial-style building with its terra cotta cladding was a model for the Bay’s western Canadian expansion, with architecturally notable stores following in Vancouver, Victoria and Winnipeg.

Since the store’s closure, concerns have arisen over its future, preservation and the deterioration of the aging building’s condition.

It lacks municipal or provincial historical designation, which would prevent demolition or significant alteration, and refurbishing its electrical, mechanical and structural integrity would cost many millions of dollars.

The National Trust for Canada included the building in its endangered places list last fall.

The Hudson’s Bay Co. had entered into a joint venture with RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust. After the Bay filed for creditor protection a year ago, RioCan indicated it wouldn’t invest any more into the site.

The news of the purchase was welcomed by downtown business and historical preservation groups.

“Astra Real Estate Corp. . . . have a demonstrated history of working with heritage properties and a strong track record of preservation and stewardship,” said Erika Topola, executive director of Heritage Calgary.

“Historic buildings are important anchors of Calgary’s identity, and it is exciting to see this landmark move into the hands of owners who understand the value of protecting architectural character while thoughtfully planning for its future. We look forward to seeing how this iconic building can continue to contribute to the vibrancy and story of our downtown for generations to come.”

The Calgary Downtown Association was similarly upbeat, saying it looks forward to discussions with Astra on how best to preserve the historically important and economically viable aspects of the “downtown landmark.”

“The building holds generations of memories for Calgarians, and its future will play an important role in the continued vibrancy and momentum of Stephen Avenue and downtown Calgary,” association spokesperson Bre Tighe said in an email.

In recent years, the building has become host to an events centre on its sixth floor and a restaurant on the bottom level.

Commercial real estate experts have said the downtown structure has considerable potential to be further subdivided for commercial and residential use, while ideally preserving its iconic facade.

The building has a rich history of expansion and redevelopment, undergoing changes in the 1930s and 1950s, and successive modernizations.

In its heyday, the downtown Bay boasted 40 departments, including a post office, telegraph station, men’s smoking lounge, nursery, library and medical clinic.

Living with Liver Disease: Why Am I So Tired All the Time?

https://www.liversupport.com/living-liver-disease-tired/

Although there are many possible causes of liver disease, the most commonly reported symptom ties most liver disease experiences together: fatigue.

We have all experienced fatigue, but the severe, constant fatigue that is endemic to chronic liver disease can be debilitating. If you have a chronic liver ailment and are struggling with tiredness, it is not all in your head. There are a handful of physiological reasons explaining why chronic liver disease and fatigue go hand in hand.

Although liver disease by itself saps energy levels, there is a long list of complicating issues that may exacerbate or contribute to fatigue.

7 Factors Known to Increase Fatigue

- Stress
- Poor nutrition
- Depression
- Inactivity
- Chronic pain
- Medications
- Illness

Even so, those with chronic liver disease are at a particular disadvantage when it comes to having sufficient energy levels. Despite the many different causes (a hepatitis virus, excessive fat accumulation, alcoholism, bile duct problems, etc.), liver disease stresses your liver, making this valuable organ vulnerable to cellular damage and scarring. Injury to its cells reduces your liver’s ability to accomplish the many jobs it is responsible for.

The following four points make it easy to see why there’s a connection between fatigue and liver disease:

Glycogen Storage – Your liver helps supply your body with energy by converting glucose into glycogen and storing it for later use. If your liver is compromised, it is less able to convert glucose to glycogen, less able to store the glycogen, and less able to release the glycogen when energy is needed.

Brain-Immune Dysfunction – The continued, long-term response of the immune system to liver injury contributes to fatigue. The release of neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain) is part of a healthy immune system response. When your body is stressed, your immune system is activated, causing your brain to release chemicals for self-protection. Liver disease inflicts chronic, uncontrollable stress, weakening your immune system and decreasing the release of certain brain neurotransmitters. The reduction in neurotransmitters is a suspected factor in severe fatigue.

Anemia – A condition describing a deficiency in red blood cells that transport oxygen throughout the body, anemia causes severe fatigue. According to a Spanish research report published in the October 2009 issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology, anemia occurs in about 75 percent of patients with chronic liver disease. Experts believe that hemorrhage of blood into the gastrointestinal tract is a major cause of anemia in individuals with chronic liver disease.

Metabolism – Your liver helps create energy via metabolism, the process of converting your food into energy. An impaired liver has fewer functioning liver cells available to metabolize the protein, fat and carbohydrates you consume.

The fatigue you might be feeling with chronic liver disease is not a figment of your imagination. There are several physiological reasons why impaired liver function reduces energy levels. Providing your body with antioxidants, vitamins, herbs and nutrients that strengthen the liver, the cell’s mitochondria and the immune system while also nurturing metabolism, can help restore your energy levels when it is needed most.

New Report Shows Trump Admin. Responsible for 10,000s of Venezuelan Deaths

Moscow - Leninsky Avenue (1983)

https://rutube.ru/video/3bd451a8c16d42faf7b0bfa091e7ccd7/

Leninsky Avenue (Russian: Ле́нинский проспе́кт) is a major avenue in Moscow, Russia, that runs in the south-western direction between Kaluzhskaya Square in the central part of the city through Gagarin Square to the Moscow Ring Road. It is a part of the M3 highway which continues from Moscow to Kaluga and Bryansk to the border with Ukraine, and provides connections with Kiev and Odessa. It is also a part of the European route E101 connecting Moscow and Kiev. It is the second widest street in Moscow after Leningradsky Avenue. Its width varies between 108 and 120 metres.

Zendaya's First Movie of 2026 Officially Enters an Elite Box Office List for A24

https://collider.com/zendaya-robert-pattinson-the-drama-fifth-a24-movie-100-million-box-office/

After a decade spent in the indie trenches, A24 is making a name for itself by empowering the kind of star-driven studio movies that Hollywood stopped making during that period. A24 noticed a gap in the market and filled it with movies helmed by critically acclaimed filmmakers and led by actors looking to diversify from the usual fare. It relied on an increasingly recognizable brand identity and captivating marketing strategies. Not every project has worked, but in the last few years, A24's films have consistently leveled up at the box office. The studio recently delivered its fifth feature film to hit the coveted $100 million mark in worldwide box-office revenue, as it prepares to enter production on perhaps its most ambitious project yet, the fantasy video game adaptation Elden Ring.

A24's latest hit is The Drama, the cringe-inducing dark comedy starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli, who previously worked with the company on the surreal comedy film Dream Scenario, The Drama also features Alana Haim, Hailey Benton Gates, and Mamoudou Athie in supporting roles. The movie follows a couple whose lives are upended by a scandalous personal revelation in the week leading up to their wedding. The Drama opened to mostly positive reviews and has stirred debates about issues such as gun violence, privilege, and race in America. It currently holds a 77% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, "Flirting with complex themes, The Drama walks a tonal tightrope with impressive poise thanks to career-highlight performances by Robert Pattinson and Zendaya."

Having hit the $100 million mark worldwide against a reported budget of $28 million, The Drama only trails Materialists ($108 million), Civil War ($127 million), Everything Everywhere All at Once ($142 million), and Marty Supreme ($180 million) on A24's all-time leaderboard. The Drama has overtaken Materialists' $36 million domestic haul and is on track to hit the $50 million mark by the end of its run. It has also passed the $95 million lifetime global haul of Zendaya's Challengers, which was distributed by Amazon MGM Studios a couple of years ago. This is a major year for the star, who also appears in the third season of HBO's A24-produced drama series Euphoria. She will join Pattinson in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey and Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Three, and will also reprise her role as MJ in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.

Colin Farrell - Saturday Night Live

Colin Farrell comments on Alexander The Great. Aired 12/11/04

'Mother Mary' review: Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel are rapturous | Mashable

https://mashable.com/article/mother-mary-review

From the writer/director of "The Green Knight" comes a surreal horror story.

Filmmakers often express frustrations about the genre labels put on their work by studio marketing, the media, and even their fans. Perhaps this is why David Lowery's tagline for his latest film, Mother Mary, focuses on what it's not. "This is not a ghost story. This is not a love story." Maybe he doesn't want his rapturous work described in such simple terms.

But here's the thing. It is a ghost story. It is a love story. It's also more.

Written and directed by Lowery (The Green Knight, A Ghost Story), Mother Mary plunges its audience into the unreal world of the eponymous pop icon, played by Anne Hathaway. Wearing a ferociously cinched body suit with gothic flair and religious iconography like her signature halos, Mother Mary is giving Lady Gaga. But it's not just the iconography. A stunning long take meant to show how Mother Mary must parade from one show to the next to the next without respite recalls the Gaga meme of "No sleep, bus, club, another club, 'nother club, plane, next place, no sleep."

However, Mother Mary's songs are written by Charli xcx, Jack Antonoff, and FKA twigs, who also has a small but pivotal role in the film. The music they bring is otherworldly, evoking not just Mother Mary's power over her audience, but also the paranormal darkness that plagues her wherever she goes.

Could it be that reconnecting with her former best friend/costume designer, Sam Anselm (Michaela Coel), will bring an end to her agony? Can collaboration on a dress heal years of estrangement and resentment?

The premise might sound like the stuff of tearjerker melodrama. But in Lowery's hands, Mother Mary is a gothic horror story — surreal, evocative, and breathtakingly gorgeous. 

Across a smattering of arena tour performances, Hathaway must swiftly convince us that Mother Mary is an incomparably popular, intensely compelling talent. In her long, long wigs and cinched and bedazzled costumes, she projects an enchanting confidence and cool. She is instantly mesmerizing, strutting, dancing, and singing with the stage presence many performers would maim for.

It's fascinating to see this film hit so close to Hathaway's reprisal of the gawky fashion-averse heroine Andy Sachs with The Devil Wears Prada 2. Back-to-back, Hathaway reminds us how she can easily play an average girl and a literal icon with aplomb. In Mother Mary, however, she must pull off a double act. Not only is she embodying this perfectly fierce and feminine facade, but also a beleaguered woman on the brink of collapse, creatively and psychologically.

When she comes into Sam's rural sanctuary, a chicly decaying estate where models, designers, and hangers-on flutter about with ballerina-like precision to execute Sam's vision, Mother Mary is disheveled, sheepish, and fragile. In sweatpants and a hoodie, she practically cowers as she humbly requests her former confidante to create a new gown for her, custom, and with only three days turnaround time for her public relaunch. It's outrageous. It's impossible. And yet, Sam cannot resist. 

While Mother Mary will flow into flashbacks to show us its titular figure's career highs and personal lows, much of the film takes place in a humble barn, which Sam uses as a design studio. There, Sam will poetically muse about creation, friendship, hatred, ghosts, and letting go. Hathaway's role demands that she transform physically and thrust herself into a complicated contemporary dance number — without music — that feels like a brutal exercise in penance through humiliation. By contrast, Coel's portrayal is more grounded in her face and voice.

Where Mary must move to enchant us, Sam can stand still, resolute and just talk. Coel makes it seem so easily, so effortless to be this beguiling. Through her, pages and pages of Lowery's melodic monologue flow like a river, glittering, deep, and rapid. The actress, who broke through mugging and slapsticking it up in Chewing Gum, is intense yet restrained here. Her screen presence is unparalleled.

Cinematographers Andrew Droz Palermo and Rina Yang meticulously light this dark barn with care to be sure that Coel's eyes and cheekbones shine. She is truly radiant, even when withering. 

Wrapped in cool blues and probing reds, these two hurt women engage in a metaphorical dance that is collaboration and confrontation. Lowery's direction trusts in these actresses to find a rhythm without theatrics. Hushed tones lure us in, as if we are a fly on the wall or a ghost in the hallway. Theirs is a story of love, but one that fully recognizes the role hate and even indifference play in such a story. 

Theirs is a ghost story, but not in the traditional sense. Sure, there was a haunting and a seance — conducted by a possessed FKA twigs. But nothing else about this supernatural tale will play to the lore you might predict. 

Instead, Lowery embraces darkness and bold color, flowing fabric, and structured gowns to create a visual world that illustrates his heroines' fears and hopes, emotions so raw and reckless they can't be said out loud. 

Hathaway and Coel are electrifying together. A small female supporting cast, boasting Hunter Schafer and Sian Clifford along with FKA twigs, provides a swift and solid structure, suggesting a world beyond the barn without much fuss or distraction. The cinematography celebrates pop idols and couture fashion with the same adoration it offers Lowery's silky black abyss. The music throbs like a mind racing or a mouth catching a ragged breath.

All of this comes together into a vision grotesque and gorgeous. Mother Mary is not only slippery, riveting, unnerving, and haunting, but also one of the most enthralling films 2026 is likely to reveal.