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Stream It Or Skip It: ‘My Hero Academia’ Season 8 on Crunchyroll, Where A Thrilling War Arc And Superpowered Storyline Conclude In This Beloved Anime’s Epic Final Season

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After a year of waiting, fans of *My Hero Academia* can rejoice as the title returns for an eighth and final season on Crunchyroll starting this month. The sci-fi superhero adventure anime series wraps up the story of teen boy Izuku Midoriya (Daiki Yamashita), who aspires to become the number one Hero, despite being one of the 20% of humanity’s population born Quirkless.

In *My Hero Academia: Season 8*, we’ll witness the ultimate clash between Heroes and Villains as Izuku and his mentor, All Might (Kenta Miyake), take on Tomura Shigaraki (Kōki Uchiyama) and All For One (Akio Ōtsuka/Hiroshi Kamiya) to conclude the Final War arc and bid farewell to the characters and storylines that fans have come to know and love over the past nine years.

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### MY HERO ACADEMIA SEASON 8: STREAM IT OR SKIP IT?

**Opening Shot:**
Petals fall from beautiful, blooming cherry trees as the voice of Izuku “Deku” Midoriya (Daiki Yamashita) narrates:
“The heroes declined, and the villains flourished. The odds of winning in a frontal assault were slim, and it felt like we were attempting to reel in a delicate line of string. That’s why we worked out a plan, split up our opponents, and tried to seize the advantage.”

A wrinkled hand reaches out before pulling back. “A powerful wind was raging,” Deku concludes, before a young, scarred hand catches an errant petal. “A powerful wind.”

—

### The Gist

Things aren’t looking too great for our heroes as Season 8 begins. Season 7 ended with America’s number one Hero, Star and Stripe (Romi Park), sacrificing herself in a battle against Tomura Shigaraki (Kōki Uchiyama), and gecko-like Villain Spinner (Ryō Iwasaki) helping Shigaraki regain full control of his body. Additionally, Villain Himiko Toga (Misato Fukuen) sacrificed herself to save young Hero Ochaco “Uravity” Uraraka (Ayane Sakura).

Now, at the start of Season 8, Deku and Shigaraki are deadlocked in a brutal battle. Toga’s many clones of Twice (Daichi Endō) are overpowering and outnumbering the Hero forces while simultaneously weighing down their “Coffin in the Sky.” Meanwhile, the U.A. student duo of Tenya “Ingenium” Ida (Kaito Ishikawa) and Shoto Todoroki (Yūki Kaji) are en route to stop Villain Dabi (Hiro Shimono)—now revealed to be Toya—from causing major destruction as his thermal energy rises to critical levels following a clash with his father, Endeavor (Tetsu Inada).

But the centerpiece in this first episode is one last big fight between longtime enemies: Japan’s former number one Hero, Toshinori Yagi, AKA “All Might” (Kenta Miyake), and the 200+ year old Quirk-stealing Villain who forced him into early retirement, the dastardly All For One (Akio Ōtsuka/Hiroshi Kamiya).

As the last bastion of the Heroes’ defense able to stand against All For One, All Might uses an assistive mechanical suit to overcome his now Quirkless state. He emulates various Quirks and attacks of his students at U.A. to stall and de-age All For One enough to take him out of the fight.

While this intense battle unfolds, another fight occurs hundreds of miles north. U.A. student traitor Yuga Aoyama (Kōsuke Kuwano) stands as the unlikely last hope to defeat Tartarus jailbreaker, mass murderer, and corpse collector Villain Kunieda (Tatsumaru Tachibana). When “Invisible Girl” Toru Hagakure (Kaori Nazuka) comes to his aid, they just might have a chance to save the Heroes from Kunieda’s life-force-stealing evil flowers.

Get ready for plenty of surprises, epic showdowns, and emotional moments as *My Hero Academia* officially comes to an end.

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### What Shows Will It Remind You Of?

*My Hero Academia* calls to mind other fight-filled anime series revolving around the battle between Good vs. Evil (and the grey areas in between), such as *Naruto*, *Jujutsu Kaisen*, *Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba*, *Hunter x Hunter*, and of course, *My Hero Academia: Vigilantes*.

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### Our Take

The first episode of *My Hero Academia: Season 8* is an electrifying beginning-of-the-end that carries the gravitas, energy, and thrills you would hope for—and expect—from a popular show’s final season.

Even with moments of recapping previous events and over-the-top dialogue, this episode flies by and keeps you on the edge of your seat from the start. From smooth animation and eye-catching visuals to moving moments that tug at your heartstrings and humorous lines that break the tension of this sometimes grim, deadly war arc—the across-the-board amazing, evocative voice acting work pulls you in and gives you goosebumps as it honors the characters and story that came before while building toward an unforgettable finish.

There is an earnestness baked into the very DNA of this series that, even in its cornier bits, makes the show ultimately feel winning, charming, and human. It’s an absolute (Detroit) Smash!

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### Sex and Skin

None.

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### Parting Shot

All For One has managed to recover from All Might’s attacks and closes in on the older hero, ready to make his finishing move and erase that ever-present smile for good—when suddenly, the villain is frozen in his tracks, unable to move.

“Blood runs red for everyone,” we hear, before witnessing the return of the big *My Hero Academia: Season 2* villain, Hero Killer: Stain (Gō Inoue), who now fights alongside All Might and the heroes.

Also, a post-credit scene reveals Aoyama planning to work alongside Hagakure to free the heroes from Kunieda’s flesh-eating plants as his last act as a U.A. student.

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### Sleeper Star

Undoubtedly, Kenta Miyake as All Might. Even on death’s door with the stakes impossibly high, All Might retains a positive attitude, belief in humanity, and sense of humor—all conveyed through both the dialogue and Miyake’s masterful vocal performance.

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### Most Pilot-y Line

There are several All Might lines to choose from (it’s just in his nature as a slightly sappy, catchphrase-slinging superhero), but this one, directed to All For One, particularly stands out:

“I heard Shigaraki’s hatred has affected you. Then you can’t ignore me, can you? Why? Because I am here!”

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Get ready to stream *My Hero Academia: Season 8* and experience the thrilling conclusion to a beloved saga. Don’t miss it!
https://decider.com/2025/10/25/my-hero-academia-season-8-crunchyroll-review/

Happy 45th Birthday Mary Halvorson

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Happy 45th Birthday, Mary Halvorson!

Mary Halvorson is a true guitar heroine, renowned for her innovative style and captivating performances. In 2022, she released two essential albums simultaneously, both of which have garnered critical acclaim.

Discover our in-depth review of these remarkable works and explore why Mary Halvorson continues to be a vital and influential figure in contemporary music.
https://magnetmagazine.com/2025/10/16/happy-birthday-mary-halvorson/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=happy-birthday-mary-halvorson

Upper body workout: 5 must-do exercises

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By Anujj Trehaan | Oct 07, 2025, 10:17 AM

**What’s the story?**

The trapezius muscle, commonly referred to as the trap, is an important muscle that spans the upper back and neck. It plays a vital role in shoulder movement and stability. Strengthening the traps can improve posture, enhance athletic performance, and reduce the risk of injury.

Here are five effective exercises to activate and strengthen the trapezius muscles.

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### Tip 1: Shrug Your Way to Stronger Traps

Shoulder shrugs are an easy yet effective exercise to target the upper traps. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Lift your shoulders towards your ears while keeping your arms straight, then lower them back down.

Repeat for 10 to 15 reps. This exercise can be done with or without weights, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced lifters.

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### Tip 2: Deadlifts for Full-Body Engagement

Deadlifts work multiple muscle groups, including the traps. Stand with feet hip-width apart, a barbell over your mid-foot. Bend at your hips and knees to grip the barbell, then lift by straightening your hips and knees simultaneously.

Focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement. Perform three sets of eight to 12 reps.

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### Tip 3: Face Pulls for Upper Back Activation

Face pulls are great for targeting both the upper traps and rear deltoids. Use a cable machine set at eye level or higher. Stand facing it with feet hip-width apart, grasping two handles with an overhand grip.

Pull the handles towards your face while keeping your elbows high and wide, then return slowly to the starting position. Aim for three sets of 12 to 15 reps.

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### Tip 4: Bent-Over Rows to Build Strength

Bent-over rows target mid-trap fibers, while also working other back muscles such as lats and rhomboids. With feet shoulder-width apart, hold a barbell or dumbbells with an overhand grip.

Bend forward at your hips until your torso is almost parallel to the ground, then pull the weights towards your abdomen, squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top of each rep. Do three sets of eight to 12 reps.

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### Tip 5: Upright Rows for Trap Focus

Upright rows specifically target upper trap activation when performed correctly, using either dumbbells or a barbell. Stand upright, holding weights with your palms facing you, close together at chin level.

Lift your elbows outward and upward, maintaining a slight bend in your knees throughout the movement. Lower back down slowly, completing the cycle. Repeat for three sets of eight to 12 repetitions.

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Strengthening your trapezius muscles through these exercises can significantly improve your posture, enhance your workouts, and help prevent injuries. Incorporate them gradually into your fitness routine for best results!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/trapezius-muscle-activation-5-exercises/story

‘Steve’ review: Cillian Murphy is superb in uneven drama

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By Isha Sharma | Oct 03, 2025 | 04:43 pm

**What’s the story?**

*Cillian Murphy’s Steve*, out now on Netflix, is directed by Tim Mielants, who previously collaborated with Murphy on *Small Things Like These*. Based on Max Porter’s 2023 novella, *Shy*, the film traces a turbulent, nerve-racking day in the life of Steve, the headmaster of a reform school for boys. Murphy excels in his complex role, but the film leaves much to be desired.

—

### Plot: Follows a committed, troubled teacher at a reform school

The film centers on Steve, the headmaster of Stanton Wood, a reform school for unruly male teens. His mental health is in tatters, the staff is underpaid and overworked, and the boys show little to no sign of progress. One day, authorities inform Steve that the school will be closed in six months, leaving him to come to terms with this shocking and unfortunate news.

—

### #1 Murphy delivers a stirring act

Cillian Murphy captures the ache, anxiety, and aggression of Steve exceedingly well—you can truly sense the storm brewing inside him. Steve wears himself out trying to help the kids, and Murphy essays the role with just the right amount of intensity. For Steve, this job is a form of redemption; saving the boys would mean rescuing himself too.

—

### #2 The film has ambition, but not everything comes together

The film offers sharp dialogue and boasts an ensemble cast of talented, experienced actors including Emily Watson and Tracey Ullman. However, aside from Steve, every character feels underwritten and remains distant from the audience. Adding to this, the ending comes across as quite incomplete. Rather than encouraging reflection, it simply leaves viewers frustrated.

—

### #3 The movie begins to feel weary after a point

An unbridled energy and constant chaos define the film—boys fighting, teachers struggling, and an exploitative documentary crew conducting interviews. Everything happens simultaneously, and the school is in complete disarray. While this frenetic energy works in the film’s favor initially, it soon begins to overwhelm the narrative, leaving viewers feeling exhausted rather than entertained.

—

### #4 More on the above aspect

The film has an unapologetically raw and realistic feel but struggles to engage fully. You stay with it because you want to see how Steve’s journey will unfold, but the wayward, sloppy writing never makes this easy. The boys get ample screentime, yet by the film’s end, we know very little about them.

—

### Verdict: Murphy’s performance alone can’t save the film

*Cillian Murphy delivers a scintillating performance in Steve and leaves no room for complaint, but his artistry alone cannot save the movie.* The film feels tiring and tedious, frequently finding itself on shaky, uneven ground. While Murphy’s role is one for the ages and the film maintains an intense, gritty atmosphere, the overall experience is an unrewarding and unentertaining ride.

**Rating: 2.5/5 stars**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/cillian-murphy-s-steve-review/story

‘Steve’ review: Cillian Murphy is superb in uneven drama

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By Isha Sharma | Oct 03, 2025 | 04:43 pm

**What’s the story?**

*Cillian Murphy’s Steve*, out now on Netflix, is directed by Tim Mielants, who previously collaborated with him on *Small Things Like These*. Based on Max Porter’s 2023 novella *Shy*, the film traces a turbulent, nerve-racking day in the life of Steve, the headmaster of a reform school for boys.

Murphy excels in his complex role, but the film overall leaves much to be desired.

—

### Plot: A committed, troubled teacher at a reform school

The film follows Steve, the headmaster of Stanton Wood, a reform school for unruly male teens. His mental health is in tatters, the staff is underpaid and overworked, and the boys show little to no sign of progress.

One day, authorities inform Steve that the school will be closed in six months, leaving him to come to terms with this shocking and unfortunate news.

—

### #1 Murphy delivers a stirring act

Murphy captures the ache, anxiety, and aggression of Steve exceedingly well—you can truly sense the storm brewing inside him. Steve wears himself out trying to help the kids, and Murphy essays this role with just the right amount of intensity.

He views this job as a form of redemption; saving the boys would mean rescuing himself too.

—

### #2 The film has ambition, but not everything comes together

The film offers sharp dialogue and boasts an ensemble cast of talented, experienced actors, including Emily Watson and Tracey Ullman. However, aside from Steve, every character is underwritten and remains distant from the audience.

Additionally, the ending comes across as quite incomplete. Rather than encouraging reflection, it simply leaves viewers frustrated.

—

### #3 The movie begins to feel weary after a point

A sense of unbridled energy and chaos defines the film: the boys are fighting, the teachers are struggling, and an exploitative documentary crew is conducting interviews—all happening simultaneously in a school in complete disarray.

While this energy works in the film’s favor initially, it soon overwhelms the story, leaving the audience feeling exhausted rather than entertained.

—

### #4 More on the above aspect

The film has an unapologetically raw and realistic feel but struggles to truly engage. You stay with it, hoping to see how Steve’s journey unfolds, but the wayward, sloppy writing makes this difficult.

The boys get ample screen time; yet, by the end, we remain none the wiser about their characters.

—

### Verdict: Murphy’s performance alone can’t save the film — 2.5/5 stars

Murphy delivers a scintillating performance in *Steve* and leaves no room for complaint. However, his artistic chops alone cannot save the movie.

The film feels tiring and tedious, often standing on shaky, uneven ground. While Murphy’s performance is one for the ages and the film feels intense and gritty, overall, it is an unrewarding, unentertaining ride.

**Rating: 2.5/5 stars**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/cillian-murphy-s-steve-review/story

‘Steve’ review: Cillian Murphy is superb in uneven drama

Posted on by
Reply

By Isha Sharma | Oct 03, 2025 | 04:43 pm

**What’s the story?**

*Cillian Murphy’s Steve*, out now on Netflix, is directed by Tim Mielants, who previously collaborated with Murphy on *Small Things Like These*. Based on Max Porter’s 2023 novella *Shy*, the film traces a turbulent, nerve-racking day in the life of Steve, the headmaster of a reform school for boys. Murphy excels in his complex role, but the film leaves much to be desired.

—

### Plot: A committed, troubled teacher at a reform school

The film follows Steve, the headmaster of Stanton Wood, a reform school for unruly male teens. His mental health is in tatters, the staff is underpaid and overworked, and the boys show little to no sign of progress. One day, authorities inform Steve that the school will be closed in six months, leaving him to come to terms with this shocking, unfortunate news.

—

### #1 Murphy delivers a stirring act

Murphy captures the ache, anxiety, and aggression of Steve exceedingly well—you can sense the storm brewing inside him. Steve wears himself out trying to help the kids, and Murphy essays this role with just the right amount of intensity. He views the job as a form of redemption; saving the boys would mean rescuing himself, too.

—

### #2 The film has ambition, but not everything comes together

The film offers sharp dialogue and features an ensemble cast of talented, experienced actors such as Emily Watson and Tracey Ullman. However, aside from Steve, every character is underwritten and remains distant from the audience. To make matters worse, the ending feels quite incomplete. It doesn’t invite reflection but rather leaves you frustrated.

—

### #3 The movie begins to feel weary after a point

A sense of unbridled energy and chaos defines the film—the boys are fighting, the teachers are struggling, and an exploitative documentary crew conducts interviews. Everything happens simultaneously, and the school is in complete disarray. While this energy works initially, it soon begins to overwhelm the film, leaving viewers feeling exhausted rather than entertained.

—

### #4 More on the above aspect

The film takes an unapologetically raw and realistic approach but struggles to maintain engagement. You stick with it because you want to see how Steve’s journey unfolds, but the wayward, sloppy writing never makes it easy. The boys receive ample screen time, yet by the end, we know little more about them than before.

—

### Verdict: Murphy’s performance alone can’t save the film — 2.5/5 stars

Cillian Murphy delivers a scintillating performance in *Steve* and leaves no room for complaint, but his artistic chops alone cannot save the movie. The film feels tiring and tedious, often teetering on shaky, uneven ground. Murphy’s portrayal is one for the ages, and the film is intense and gritty, but overall, it is an unrewarding and unentertaining ride.

**Rating: 2.5/5 stars**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/cillian-murphy-s-steve-review/story