Niantic, the company behind Pokémon Go, has been acquired by mobile gaming giant Scopely for $1.2 billion. Will this deal bring new life to Pokémon Go or put its legacy at risk?

Niantic, the San Francisco-based studio behind Pokémon Go, was acquired by Scopely for $1.2 billion on March 12, 2025, according to The Hollywood Reporter. It’s a major shift for Niantic, known for pioneering augmented reality (AR) games like Pokémon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.

I spotted this announcement while catching up on gaming and tech news, and it feels like one of those pivotal moments for mobile gaming.

Inside the $1.2 Billion Acquisition

Scopely, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Games Group, acquired Niantic’s gaming operations—including its popular AR technology and titles—for $1.2 billion. The purchase notably includes Niantic’s 700 employees and their tech stack but excludes their non-gaming initiatives.

While Niantic earned $672 million in revenue in 2024, growth has significantly slowed since Pokémon Go’s blockbuster launch. Scopely, responsible for hit titles such as Monopoly Go and Marvel Strike Force, views Niantic as its gateway into the expanding AR gaming market.

Niantic’s Rise and Struggles

Founded in San Francisco in 2010 as a Google spin-off, Niantic made a massive splash in 2016 with Pokémon Go. The game generated 232 million downloads and $1.9 billion in revenue during its debut year, according to Sensor Tower. Pokémon Go famously brought AR into mainstream popularity, turning cities worldwide into real-world gaming playgrounds.

However, subsequent projects like Harry Potter: Wizards Unite (2019) underperformed, and newer games such as Peridot (2022) failed to achieve notable success, as reported by GameSpot. These disappointments contributed to Niantic’s decision to seek a strategic partner or buyer.

Scopely’s Big Bet on AR

Scopely, acquired by Savvy Games for $4.9 billion in 2023, has a strong track record in monetizing casual games. Monopoly Go alone generated $2 billion in revenue in 2024, according to Pocket Gamer. By acquiring Niantic, Scopely aims to expand its portfolio beyond traditional mobile games and establish itself in the AR gaming space.

Fans are understandably cautious about this deal. Scopely’s monetization practices, particularly in Marvel Strike Force, have sparked backlash online. Players fear these aggressive tactics might negatively affect Pokémon Go, altering the community-driven model Niantic cultivated, as discussed widely on X.

CEO John Hanke will reportedly remain with Niantic, providing some continuity. Still, questions linger over how Scopely’s strategy might reshape Niantic’s flagship games.

What’s on the Line for Pokémon Go Players?

Players worry Scopely’s ownership could mean higher costs or more aggressive monetization, potentially compromising Pokémon Go’s community-driven legacy, per Polygon.

The broader AR gaming market is valued at $28.5 billion in 2025 and projected to reach $97.8 billion by 2030, according to MarketsandMarkets. Scopely’s success hinges on effectively utilizing Niantic’s AR capabilities without disrupting its core audience.

Pokémon Go’s Rollercoaster Legacy

Pokémon Go burst onto the scene in 2016, quickly becoming a global phenomenon. Developed in collaboration with The Pokémon Company and Nintendo, the game attracted 232 million downloads and generated $1.9 billion in revenue in its debut year, per Sensor Tower. Pokémon Go drove millions outdoors to catch digital creatures, making AR mainstream.

Yet, as the initial excitement waned, Niantic faced consistent backlash. Controversial updates—such as the nerfing of key gameplay features like the “nearby tracker” in 2017 (Polygon), and location-based restrictions criticized heavily by rural players, per TechCrunch—hurt player retention. Recent monetization choices further alienated players, prompting some to label the game “pay-to-win.”

What’s Next for Niantic and Pokémon Go?

Niantic’s acquisition by Scopely might inject new energy and resources, but there’s also significant risk of alienating the game’s dedicated fanbase. Upcoming changes and monetization strategies in Pokémon Go will be closely watched.

It’s a critical turning point for Niantic—and possibly a defining moment in mobile AR gaming.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What do you think about Scopely acquiring Niantic? Will this move revive Pokémon Go or undermine its original charm? Drop your thoughts below or on X @DREZZEDNews—let’s discuss.

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Edgar B. D/REZZED Gaming News is part of Clownfish TV. Subscribe to our newsletter at http://drezzed.substack.com

D/REZZED provides Balanced and Based Gaming, Pop Culture, and Paranormal News. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of hosts, editors, other contributors, affiliates, sponsors, or advertisers. Our articles are human-edited but may utilize AI assistance for research and grammar. Articles may include affiliate links; we may earn commissions on purchases made through these links. Any products or services received for review are disclosed, as are any sponsored posts.

Sources / Hat Tip:

• Base article: The Hollywood Reporter, “Pokémon Go Studio Niantic Sold to Scopely for $1.2 Billion,” March 12, 2025.

• Niantic revenue: Statista, “Annual Mobile Revenue Generated by Niantic Worldwide from 2015 to 2024,” January 8, 2025.

• Pokémon Go stats: Sensor Tower, “Pokémon Go Revenue and Downloads,” 2016 archives.

• Scopely data: Pocket Gamer, “Monopoly Go Hits $2 Billion in 2024,” December 2024.

• AR market: MarketsandMarkets, “Augmented Reality Market Size & Share Analysis,” 2025 update.

• History and backlash: Wikipedia, “Pokémon Go,” updated 2025; Sensor Tower, 2016 data; Statista, user stats; The New York Times, “Pokémon Go Frenzy,” 2016; Polygon, “Nearby Tracker Nerf,” 2017; GameSpot, “Pandemic Perks Backlash,” 2021; ScreenRant, “Community Day Cuts,” 2021; TechCrunch, “Microtransaction Concerns,” 2021.

• Additional context: GameSpot, “Niantic’s Struggles Post-Pokémon Go,” 2022; TechCrunch, “Niantic’s AR Pivot,” 2024; Polygon, “Pokémon Go Community Concerns,” March 2025.

• Published on March 12, 2025.

Diamond Comic Distributors, the backbone of comic retail, hired a debt collection firm on March 11, 2025, to chase outstanding debts during its Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Could this stabilize Diamond, or will it strain ties with comic publishers and retailers?

Diamond Comic Distributors, a backbone of comic retail, made a surprising move on March 11, 2025—amid its ongoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, the company hired Baylinson, a commercial collections law firm, to recover outstanding debts, per Bleeding Cool.

This underscores severe financial strain as Diamond tries to stay operational under bankruptcy protection. I spotted this while reviewing tech updates last night, alongside gaming news. It’s a plot twist straight out of a comic cliffhanger—except the stakes are real for the industry.

The State of Diamond’s Finances

Diamond Comic Distributors went public with its financial troubles by filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 1, 2024, aiming to reorganize its finances while continuing operations. It secured funding from JP Morgan Chase to ensure payroll, operations, and new stock orders remained steady.

However, pre-petition debts—those owed to publishers and retailers before bankruptcy—have been stuck in legal limbo. Diamond’s move to aggressively recoup these funds may put significant pressure on comic shops already struggling with thin profit margins and tight cash flow.

Comic Shops and Publishers Feel the Squeeze

Comic shops, already stretched thin, face potential pressure from Diamond’s aggressive collections strategy. Retailers such as Cosmic Monkey Comics in Portland reportedly owe Diamond money themselves, according to Bleeding Cool. While exact figures are not public, the collections effort poses a significant risk, potentially leading to store closures or further market disruption, per ICv2.

Publishers Feeling the Pinch

Smaller publishers are significantly impacted. Indie publisher TwoMorrows Publishing, known for historical comics magazines, is owed $28,000 by Diamond and has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to stay afloat. Canadian literary comics publisher Black Panel Press also faces similar challenges, owed $28,000 and similarly resorting to fan-driven fundraising, per web reports.

Even larger publishers, such as Image Comics, shifted quickly to alternative distributors like Lunar Distribution, yet still grapple with delays and lost sales, per web reports.

A full list of debts owed to vendors remains private as of March 11, 2025, in the confidentiality of bankruptcy proceedings.

Diamond’s Long History of Financial Challenges

Diamond Comic Distributors has long held a near-monopoly over comic distribution but has historically faced monetization struggles, often relying heavily on venture capital. The 2023 API-pricing blackout notably highlighted frustrations among retailers and publishers, per ICv2.

With an auction scheduled for March 24, 2025, and expected closure by April 10, 2025, Diamond’s future hangs in the balance. The collections move might be an attempt to stabilize finances pre-sale or restructuring.

Market Implications

According to analytics firm Mordor Intelligence, the comic book market is valued at $18.03 billion in 2025 and projected to reach $23.42 billion by 2030. Diamond’s financial instability could reshape distribution significantly, either fueling growth for new competitors like Lunar or causing major disruptions if retailers cannot adapt.

What Now?

Diamond’s debt collection strategy is a calculated but risky move. Short-term stability might come at the expense of vital relationships with publishers and retailers. The industry faces a moment of uncertainty not seen in decades.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Is Diamond’s debt-collection strategy a smart move or a desperate gamble? Will they emerge stronger or fade away like other industry giants? Let us know your thoughts below or on X @DREZZEDNews—let’s talk.

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Edgar B. D/REZZED Gaming News is part of Clownfish TV. Subscribe to our newsletter at http://drezzed.substack.com

D/REZZED provides Balanced and Based Gaming, Pop Culture, and Paranormal News. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of hosts, editors, other contributors, affiliates, sponsors, or advertisers. Our articles are human-edited but may utilize AI assistance for research and grammar. Articles may include affiliate links; we may earn commissions on purchases made through these links. Any products or services received for review are disclosed, as are any sponsored posts.

Sources / Hat Tip:

• Bleeding Cool

• ICv2

• Mordor Intelligence

Reddit stock (NYSE: RDDT) has crashed by over 40% in the past month, driven by disappointing user growth, Google algorithm changes, and tough competition from TikTok and X. Could Reddit bounce back or is this decline a sign of deeper issues?

Reddit stock closed at a rough $133.98 on March 7, 2025—a major nosedive from its February high of around $225. What’s happening to everyone’s favorite meme factory?

This is quite the stumble for Reddit, the platform that’s thrived on endless engagement and meme magic. Even with strong numbers—like their Q4 2024 report showing 101.7 million daily active users (up 39% from last year)—Wall Street wasn’t impressed. Analysts expected a slightly better number, around 103.8 million according to Investopedia. Missing those targets even slightly can spook investors big-time.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Reddit did report significant growth—101.7 million daily active users, marking a 39% year-over-year increase, according to Investopedia. But investors wanted more (specifically, 103.8 million). On Wall Street, perception is everything, and falling short—even just by 2 million users—can cause a sell-off.

Adding to that, Reddit’s Q4 2024 earnings revealed vulnerability tied directly to Google’s algorithm. Changes from Google reportedly hit Reddit’s traffic and ad reach, causing concerns about revenue growth sustainability. With less visibility comes fewer ad dollars, and Reddit’s heavily ad-driven business model could start looking shaky.

Reddit’s IPO and Rocky Road to Public Trading

Reddit went public on March 1, 2024, debuting on the New York Stock Exchange at $34 per share. It was one of the most anticipated IPOs of the year, fueled by massive community engagement and Reddit’s unique place in internet culture. But the platform’s financial journey hasn’t always been smooth. Reddit previously faced controversies around monetization, notably during the 2023 blackout protest against API pricing changes, reflecting user dissatisfaction that significantly impacted engagement and trust.

Historically, Reddit struggled to monetize effectively despite its massive user base, frequently relying on venture capital. Even before going public, Reddit faced criticism about inconsistent revenue generation and heavy dependence on ad sales. These legacy financial concerns still linger, making Reddit especially sensitive to shifts in traffic and advertising revenue.

Why the Plummet?

Reddit’s stock plunge seems tied directly to a few key issues. First off, Google tweaking its search algorithms could be seriously cutting into Reddit’s traffic, harming ad revenue.

Meanwhile, fierce competition from platforms like X and TikTok, with their snappy, short-form video content, is attracting younger, more video-hungry audiences away from Reddit’s largely text-based format. Let’s face it—Reddit can feel pretty dated next to TikTok’s flashy short-form dominance.

The platform’s recent controversial decisions might also be turning users away. Remember the 2023 Reddit blackout? Moves like these alienate users, according to several web analyses. Reddit users are notoriously vocal when unhappy—bad for user retention, and even worse for advertisers.

Plus, there’s valuation hype. Reddit’s peak at $225 back in February 2025 raised eyebrows. At $133.98, investors might just be wondering if the Reddit stock ride has peaked already.

Echoes of Tech Troubles

Reddit faces brutal competition from platforms like TikTok and X, both capturing the youth demographic with short-form video and real-time interactions. Reddit’s classic, text-heavy discussion boards might feel outdated to Gen-Z, who prefer scrolling short-form video content.

With 3 billion monthly posts, Reddit isn’t dead by any stretch—but if it can’t keep growth going fast enough, investors might bail even harder.

What Now?

Reddit still has a passionate fanbase, but the stock drop signals Wall Street doubt about its future. The big question: Can Reddit evolve to recapture user growth and advertiser interest? Could video integration, improved ad targeting, or partnerships (TikTok collab, anyone?) reverse fortunes?

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Why do you think Reddit’s stock is crashing? Will it bounce back, or is this the beginning of the end? Hit us up below or over on X @DREZZEDNews—let’s talk it out.

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Edgar B. D/REZZED Gaming News is part of Clownfish TV. Subscribe to our newsletter at http://drezzed.substack.com.

D/REZZED provides Balanced and Based Gaming, Pop Culture, and Paranormal News. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of hosts, editors, other contributors, affiliates, sponsors, or advertisers. Our articles are human-edited but may utilize AI assistance for research and grammar. Articles may include affiliate links; we may earn commissions on purchases made through these links. Any products or services received for review, as are any sponsored posts, are disclosed.

Sources / Hat Tip:

• X post: @Pirat_Nation, Post ID 1898362600267899179, March 08, 2025, showing Reddit stock drop.

• Reddit Q4 2024 earnings: Investopedia, “Reddit Stock Is Down on Disappointing User Growth,” February 2025.

• CEO statement: Huffman’s February 2025 comments, via Reddit Inc. investor relations and web reports.

Late on March 2, 2025, Twitch star Amouranth—real name Kaitlyn Siragusa—shocked her 6.3 million followers with frantic posts on X, claiming that armed robbers broke into her Houston home, demanding cryptocurrency.

“I’m being too robbed at gunpont,” she wrote at 11:58 PM CST, followed by:
“I believe I shot one of them they wanted crypto is what they were yelling they pulled me out of bed.”

By 12:34 AM CST, she added:

“Was at gunpoint they gave me phone and said log in with gun to my head and I tweeted because calling would be a death sentence.”

She later posted photos of police cars outside her gated Texas property, assuring followers she was “safe” but “bleeding a lot” and headed to the hospital.

The news quickly spread across social media, with @DailyLoud calling it a “violent home invasion”, while @OnepegMG marveled, “Somehow she got a firearm and shot one of them.”

UPDATE – Houston Police seeking information on the break-in per Dexerto. Developing.

Details Remain Sparse But Alarming

Amouranth alleges that three gunmen invaded her home, pistol-whipped her, and fired at her bedroom door before breaking in. She claims she returned fire, hitting one of the intruders—evidenced by his reported screams of “I got shot!”—before SWAT arrived.

• Houston police have not yet commented, and no arrests or suspect details have emerged as of midday March 3.

• Amouranth’s assistant told Yahoo that she is out of the hospital with injuries, her animals are safe, and security has been tightened.

• The crypto motive aligns with her financial history—in November 2024, she flaunted holdings of $20 million in Bitcoin and $74,450 in Ethereum on X.

This incident reflects a growing trend of crypto-related robberies, where high-profile influencers are targeted for their digital wealth.

Who Is Amouranth?

At 31 years old, Kaitlyn “Amouranth” Siragusa has built a $40 million empire, making her one of the most recognizable names in streaming and online content creation.

• Started as a cosplayer in 2015, later shifting to Twitch, where she became the most-watched female streamer by 2021.

• Expanded beyond gaming, earning $33 million from OnlyFans by 2022, signing a Kick deal in 2023, and investing in gas stations and Wildcard Gaming in 2024.

• Known for controversy, including five Twitch bans (often due to wardrobe slips and pushing platform rules), a 2023 AVN Award, and selling fart jars.

• Personal struggles: In 2022, she revealed an abusive marriage, sparking widespread support and skepticism. Years of stalker incidents and a 2023 health diagnosis of ovarian failure have also shaped her public narrative.

Despite polarizing opinions, Amouranth remains a dominant force in digital media.

X Skepticism: Echoes of Past Controversies

While many fans support her, skepticism is rampant on X. Some users question the legitimacy of her claims, citing her history of high-profile drama.

In 2022, Amouranth publicly accused her husband of abuse, live-streaming a call where she alleged that he:

• Threatened to kill her dogs

• Controlled her finances through cryptocurrency

• Forced her to maintain a single persona for profit

While some texts supported her claims, others doubted the timing and circumstances.

The current home invasion story has sparked similar reactions.

• One X poster asked, “How did she tweet under gunpoint?”

• Another noted the coincidental timing, happening the same night as a streamer sniper incident involving Valkyrae and others.

• WIN.gg reported fan doubts, calling it a “limelight grab” and comparing it to her past stalker issues, which never escalated to this level.

That said, police presence in her photos lends credibility to the incident, and no hard evidence has debunked her claims.

What’s Next?

If true, this marks a terrifying escalation in Amouranth’s already turbulent life—between stalkers, abuse allegations, and now an armed home invasion.

Regardless of skepticism, the incident serves as a stark warning for crypto-rich streamers, as criminals increasingly target digital influencers with high publicized wealth.

Sources:

• Dexerto – Amouranth’s Home Invasion

• Amouranth on X – Initial Home Invasion Post (March 2, 11:58 PM CST)

• Amouranth on X – Follow-Up Post (March 3, 12:34 AM CST)

• Daily Star – Amouranth Home Invasion Shooting

• WhereIsTheBuzz – Twitch Star Amouranth Hospitalized After Home Invasion

• Dexerto – Amouranth Shot Home Invaders in Crypto Robbery

• Wikipedia – Amouranth

• Gamerant – Amouranth’s 2022 Abuse Allegations

• Sportskeeda – Amouranth’s Stalker Arrested

• WIN.gg – Amouranth Claims She Shot a Man Who Tried to Rob Her

Twitch has banned political streamer Hasan “HasanAbi” Piker, sending shockwaves through his 2.8 million followers and igniting debate across social media. The ban followed a controversial remark made during his February 28 stream, in which he stated, “If you cared about Medicare fraud, you would kill Rick Scott!” While Hasan later clarified that his comment was not a literal call to action, Twitch acted swiftly, removing his channel on March 3, 2025.

The news broke via Dexerto on X, confirming the ban but providing no details on its length. This lack of transparency has fueled speculation over whether HasanAbi has been permanently removed or if this is just another temporary suspension. Given his past four bans since 2019, history suggests it’s likely the latter—but without an official statement from Twitch, the uncertainty remains.

Is This the End for HasanAbi on Twitch?

Probably not. Twitch bans range from 24 hours to indefinite, but Hasan’s four previous suspensions since 2019 have all been temporary:

• 2019: Banned for one week after saying “America deserved 9/11.”

• 2021: Banned for one week for using the term “cracker” in a debate over slurs.

• 2022: Banned for 48 hours due to a copyright strike from Censored.TV content.

• 2025: This latest ban, triggered by comments about U.S. Senator Rick Scott, remains unconfirmed in length.

X user @ExitH2O called the ban “BREAKING NEWS,” but the lack of official details has left fans and critics guessing.

Hasan himself predicted the ban on March 1, saying on stream:

“Maybe I will get banned for it. Who knows?”

So far, Twitch has not stated whether this ban is permanent, and Hasan has not hinted at a long-term switch to Kick or YouTube.

Twitch’s Ban Brigade: Who Else Got Booted?

Hasan is far from the only high-profile streamer to face Twitch’s moderation policies. Here’s a look at other major Twitch bans:

• Dr Disrespect: Banned permanently June 26, 2020, after streaming from a public bathroom. He was later banned again in 2024 for alleged inappropriate messages to a minor—claims he has denied.

• Destiny: Suspended in January 2025 for “hateful conduct” after a heated Israel-Palestine debate. His ban lasted two weeks before he was reinstated.

• Frogan: Banned 30 days in October 2024 for an “antisemitic tier list” at TwitchCon—ranking streamers by “Arab” to “loves Sabra.” Twitch labeled it hate speech, but she has since returned.

• Adin Ross: Permanently banned in April 2023 for “unmoderated hateful conduct” following repeated use of slurs. He later became Kick’s marquee streamer.

While Hasan’s Rick Scott rant was controversial—he said, “If you cared about Medicare fraud, you would kill Rick Scott!”—his case is less severe than those of Dr Disrespect or Adin Ross.

X user @TheGriftReport claimed Hasan is “protected” by Twitch CEO Dan Clancy’s politics, fueling debate over whether Twitch applies bans fairly.

HasanAbi’s Controversy Chronicles

Hasan has a long history of controversy, often sparking debates over free speech and Twitch’s enforcement policies:

• “America Deserved 9/11” (August 2019): One-week ban after criticizing U.S. foreign policy. He doubled down on X, calling Twitch’s response “insane.”

• “Cracker” Kerfuffle (December 2021): One-week ban for repeatedly using the term, arguing it wasn’t a slur. X user @gaitoyquack called it a double standard, while others defended Twitch’s stance.

• Copyright Clash (December 2022): A 48-hour ban for reacting to Censored.TV content. Hasan called it “pathetic” from so-called “free speech defenders.”

• Rick Scott Rant (February 2025): Hasan stated that Rick Scott should be “killed” for hypocrisy on Medicare fraud. Asmongold on X called it “advocating murder,” though Hasan later clarified that it was a hypothetical statement, not a direct threat.

• Trash Taste Tangle (February 2025): During an appearance on the Trash Taste Podcast, Hasan described Blue Lock as “boy love anime,” triggering backlash from anime fans. X user @hayasaka_aryan mocked him, saying, “Why is Hasan the only guy they can afford?”

Hasan’s pro-Palestine stance has also drawn fire. He raised $1 million for relief efforts in 2023, leading critics like Rep. Ritchie Torres and Destiny to accuse him of antisemitism. In 2024, Destiny pushed advertisers to cut ties with Twitch over the issue, though Hasan maintains his criticism is of Zionism, not Jewish people.

Why Now? What’s Next?

Twitch’s moderation policies have come under fire in recent years, with a 2024 controversy surrounding its blocking of Israeli sign-ups due to Hamas-related content. The platform later apologized and introduced a “Politics” category, but tensions remain high.

Hasan’s ban comes amid renewed scrutiny, especially following backlash from X user @asmierciak, who stated, “Done with this platform.”

Will Twitch Permanently Ban Hasan?

A permanent ban seems unlikely for several reasons:

• Hasan is one of Twitch’s top earners, and the platform has historically avoided cutting ties with its biggest creators.

• Twitch bans are rarely permanent unless there’s repeated severe misconduct (Adin Ross).

• StreamerBans data suggests that even Hasan’s most controversial suspensions have been short-lived.

That said, Kick remains a potential alternative. While Hasan has not officially announced a platform switch, he has hinted at it on X before.

Final Thoughts

HasanAbi’s controversial statements have fueled his clout but also tested Twitch’s murky enforcement policies.

Will this latest ban stick, or is it just another temporary suspension?

For now, fans can expect a brief hiatus—but if Twitch escalates the situation, Hasan might be forced to make a major platform decision.

Sources:

• Dexerto – HasanAbi Banned from Twitch

• Sportskeeda – What Did HasanAbi Say About Rick Scott?

• Newsweek – Why Hasan Piker Was Banned from Twitch

• Dot Esports – HasanAbi’s Twitch Ban History

• Sportskeeda – HasanAbi Banned for Using Alleged Racial Slur

• Sportskeeda – HasanAbi Trash Taste Podcast Drama

• ExitH2O on X

• TheGriftReport on X

• Twitch Community Guidelines

• Streamer Facts – Twitch Ban History

The 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, put the spotlight on indie films as Flow, a dialogue-free Latvian animated feature, took home Best Animated Feature, leaving Inside Out 2 (Disney/Pixar) and The Wild Robot (DreamWorks) in the dust.

 

 

 

Directed by Gints Zilbalodis, this underdog contender—crafted by a 20-person team on a $3.6 million budget using open-source Blender software—stunned industry giants. Against Pixar’s emotional sequel and DreamWorks’ visually lush adaptation of Peter Brown’s book, Flow became the first indie film to win Best Animated Feature since the category’s inception in 2002.

At 30 years old, Zilbalodis is now the youngest winner in the category’s history. In his acceptance speech, he stated:

“I hope this will open doors to independent animation filmmakers around the world.”

Social media exploded with reactions. @jyndjarin posted, “It’s amazing an indie international film won over a major studio,” while @CstillsI praised its Blender-built visuals as “a testament to the health of the industry.”

With Disney holding 15 previous wins (11 Pixar, 4 Walt Disney Animation) and DreamWorks securing two (Shrek and Wallace & Gromit), Flow’s victory was nothing short of a seismic upset.

What Is Flow?

So, what’s the film that flipped the script?

Flow is a 76-minute animated odyssey from Latvia, directed and co-written by Gints Zilbalodis, who also composed its score. The film follows a black cat navigating a flooded, post-human world, forming an unlikely alliance with:

• A scruffy dog

• A talkative lemur

• A towering heron

• A laid-back capybara

The story unfolds without dialogue, relying on stunning animation and an evocative soundtrack to drive the narrative.

Built using Blender’s Eevee renderer for just $3.6 million—a fraction of Inside Out 2’s estimated $200 million budget—Flow has pulled in over $20 million worldwide since its Cannes debut.

Distributed by Janus Films and Sideshow in the U.S., the film has received widespread critical acclaim. Variety called it “a wordless wonder,” and the film’s universal, nature-driven theme has earned Latvia its first-ever Oscar win.

Winners and Shockers: Indies Rule the Night

Indie films didn’t just sneak in—they dominated. Here are the night’s biggest winners and surprises:

Major Wins & Upsets

• Best Picture: Anora (A24) swept five awards, including Best Picture, Best Director (Sean Baker), and Best Actress (Mikey Madison)—defeating Conclave and Wicked.

  • Baker now ties Walt Disney’s 1954 record for four individual Oscar wins in one night.

• Best Animated Feature: Flow (Janus Films/Sideshow) pulled off a historic win against Inside Out 2 and The Wild Robot.

  • Pixar, with 19 previous nominations and 11 wins, had never lost to an indie before.

• Best Documentary Feature: No Other Land (Antipode Films), a Palestinian-Israeli collaboration, won over Disney+’s Music by John Williams—a rare indie doc triumph.

• Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain, Searchlight Pictures) secured a quieter but well-earned victory amid the indie surge.

• Best Actor: Adrien Brody (The Brutalist, A24) claimed his second Oscar, edging out Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown).

Biggest Snubs & Surprises

• Netflix’s Emilia Pérez (13 nominations) flopped, losing Best International Feature to Brazil’s I’m Still Here after losing awards momentum late in the season.

• Flow’s win was the night’s biggest indie cheer, signaling a shift in animation awards.

Why Indies Triumphed: Breaking the Mold

What fueled this indie wave? A few key factors:

1. Precursor Power

• Flow rode momentum from Golden Globe and PGA Awards wins.

• Anora picked up DGA and PGA nods late in the season, sealing its status as a frontrunner.

2. A More Global Academy

• The Academy’s nearly 11,000 members have a growing international presence, embracing diverse voices.

• Flow (Latvia) and No Other Land (Palestinian-Israeli) follow 2024’s trend of The Boy and the Heron’s international win.

3. Studio Fatigue

• After 2024’s Oppenheimer sweep, voters craved fresh, raw stories.

• Anora’s gritty, sex-worker drama and Flow’s survival tale outshined safe sequels.

4. Budget Realities

• Hollywood’s cash crunch made smaller-budget films more appealing.

• Flow’s $3.6 million budget vs. Inside Out 2’s $200 million+ proved that creativity beats a fat wallet.

• X user @Moonesch called Blender a “game-changer” in animation software.

What’s Next: The Future of Indie Animation

The indie surge, led by Flow, could reshape animation as studios rethink their strategies.

Indie Animation Boom

• Flow’s Best Animated Feature win sets the stage for more low-budget, independent projects.

• Digital-first indie hits like The Amazing Digital Circus (334 million YouTube views) and Hazbin Hotel (Amazon Prime 2024) prove that studios aren’t needed for success.

• X user @GooseworxMusic, tied to Digital Circus, teased more indie breakthroughs ahead.

Studio Pressure

• Disney and DreamWorks may pivot from sequels (Inside Out 2) to riskier projects like The Wild Robot’s 2D style.

• Digital Circus and Hazbin Hotel’s success might push studios to tap indie talent or risk fading relevance.

A Digital vs. Theatrical Divide

• Flow thrived in theaters, but Digital Circus and Hazbin Hotel exploded online first before landing streaming deals.

• X user @VivziePop (Hazbin Hotel creator) said its “insane support” proves indie animation can bypass traditional Hollywood.

The Indie Era Dawns

The 2025 Oscars marked a new era, with Flow’s victory over Disney and DreamWorks as its defining moment.

With Anora, Flow, No Other Land, and other indies riding a wave of global appeal and creative ingenuity, animation’s future could be scrappier, more diverse, and digital-first.

Will Flow’s buzz and the rise of YouTube-born animation reshape the industry? If so, studios may have no choice but to adapt—or get left behind.

Sources:

• Hollywood Reporter

• IndieWire

• Collider

• NPR

• YouTube: The Amazing Digital Circus

• YouTube: Hazbin Hotel

Some of Saturday Night Live’s biggest alumni are back in the spotlight—not for their old sketches, but for their takes on history, politics, and media narratives. Bill Murray, Dana Carvey, and Rob Schneider are mixing humor with sharp-edged skepticism, taking aim at everyone from Bob Woodward to Anthony Fauci. And with SNL’s 50th-anniversary special airing on February 16, 2025, their comments are getting major traction.

Bill Murray Thinks Nixon Got Framed?

Over the weekend, Bill Murray appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience and reignited an old grudge against Bob Woodward, the legendary journalist behind the Watergate scandal.

“So when I read Wired by whatshisname, Bob Woodward, about John Belushi, I read like five pages and I went, ‘Oh my God, they framed Nixon,’” Murray said.

The book he’s referring to, Wired: The Short Life & Fast Times of John Belushi (1984), has long been criticized by Belushi’s friends, family, and colleagues, including Dan Aykroyd and Judith Pisano (Belushi’s widow), for misrepresenting the late comedian. Murray—who refused Woodward’s request for an interview back then because the whole thing “smelled funny”—suggested that if Woodward could misrepresent Belushi, maybe his Watergate reporting wasn’t airtight either.

Murray didn’t offer hard evidence, but his take fits a growing wave of skepticism toward establishment journalism. X (formerly Twitter) users like @SNLFanatic25 responded with:

“Murray’s protecting Belushi’s legacy and calling BS on Nixon—wild combo.”

Weirdly, Murray didn’t even know who Rogan was before appearing on his podcast.

Dana Carvey & David Spade Roast Fauci

Dana Carvey has been perfecting his Fauci impression for years, and on the Fly on the Wall podcast with David Spade, it’s gone from parody to full-on political satire.

In a June 28, 2023, episode Carvey’s Fauci pitches a “sixth booster shot” and “daily COVID shot”, while smugly declaring:

“Trust me, I’m science!”

Spade plays the perfect hype man, joking that Fauci dodges tough questions “like a politician.”

Then, in a July 24, 2024, episode, Carvey’s Fauci delivers some biting lines:

“I didn’t tell anyone to lock down, I just strongly suggested it.”
“I pushed the vaccine pretty hard.”
“That’s why I gave $5 million to those Chinese labs.”

Spade finishes it off with:

“He’s like, ‘Trust me, I’m the science!’”

These quips tap into real-life controversies surrounding Fauci, including:

• His lockdown guidance in March 2020

• His 2021 statements on vaccine mandates

• Debates over NIH funding and gain-of-function research

While Fauci’s defenders call the satire oversimplified, others see Carvey and Spade’s routine as a rare comedic critique of COVID-era policies.

Rob Schneider Keeps Piling On

Rob Schneider, an SNL alum from the early ‘90s, got a nod from Carvey in that July 2024 episode, reinforcing his position as one of the show’s most outspoken skeptics.

Schneider has been publicly critical of vaccine mandates for years. Back on August 27, 2022, he told Glenn Beck:

“The folly of vaccine mandates—it’s control, not science.”

He’s also been harsh on modern SNL, lamenting:

“I hate to crap on my old show,”

while implying it’s lost its edge. His COVID skepticism and critiques of SNL’s direction align with the kind of outsider stance Carvey and Spade are taking with their Fauci bits.

Why Now? Nostalgia and the SNL 50th Anniversary

With Saturday Night Live celebrating 50 years on February 16, 2025, fans are looking back at its golden years—and that means revisiting the icons that made the show what it was.

Murray, Carvey, and Schneider aren’t just sitting on the sidelines; they’re taking on media narratives, public health policies, and establishment institutions—all topics that have become major flashpoints in the post-2024 election landscape.

Social media users, including @TruthSeekerX, have been buzzing:

“SNL OGs are back with edge.”

Even Elon Musk recently fueled skepticism on Rogan’s podcast, alleging government cover-ups and media manipulation, making this kind of discourse even more relevant.

SNL’s Last Great Skits About Political Anxiety?

While Saturday Night Live has a long history of political satire, one of its most eerily relevant sketches in recent years aired just before the 2016 election. The skit, titled “Election Night”, featured a group of liberal friends confidently sipping wine at a dinner party, fully expecting Hillary Clinton to win—until the results start rolling in.

Kate McKinnon, Cecily Strong, and Aidy Bryant played the increasingly panicked dinner guests, while Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock—playing the only Black guests at the table—remained unfazed, pointing out that American politics has always been disappointing for some groups. The sketch worked because it perfectly captured the media bubble, the sense of denial leading up to Trump’s victory, and the growing discomfort around discussing politics openly.

Another standout was a 2021 skit starring Kate McKinnon and Aidy Bryant where a group of friends tries to talk about COVID mandates, Fauci, and vaccine hesitancy over dinner—only to have every attempt devolve into awkward, terrified glances and someone muttering “careful…”

The sketch didn’t take a hard stance for or against any particular viewpoint; instead, it hilariously highlighted how exhausting and impossible it had become to discuss real issues without stepping on a social landmine.

These moments showed that SNL could still hit a nerve, tapping into real-life anxieties in a way that felt authentic, rather than preachy. But as comedy continues to evolve, it’s clear that some of its biggest alumni—like Bill Murray, Dana Carvey, and Rob Schneider—are more comfortable taking risks outside of the show than within its modern framework.

SNL Roots: A Look Back

Bill Murray (1977-1980)

Took over after Chevy Chase left and quickly became one of SNL’s most deadpan and unpredictable stars. His Nick the Lounge Lizard character and chemistry with Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi helped define the show’s early days.

Dana Carvey (1986-1993)

A master of impressions, from George H.W. Bush to the Church Lady. His seven-season run earned him a 1993 Emmy and made him one of the show’s all-time best performers.

Rob Schneider (1990-1994)

Started as a writer, then became a fan-favorite performer. His “Richmeister” office guy sketches were a staple, and his transition to comedy films (Deuce Bigalow) cemented his post-SNL success.

Final Thoughts

What do you get when you mix SNL legends, political hot takes, and a dash of conspiracy? Apparently, a viral moment.

Whether it’s Murray questioning Nixon’s guilt, Carvey skewering Fauci, or Schneider trashing mandates, these guys aren’t shying away from controversial topics.

And with SNL’s 50th anniversary in the rearview mirror, don’t be surprised if more old-school legends jump into the fray.

Sources:

• MSN News: “They Framed Nixon”: Bill Murray Reveals Outrage Over Bob Woodward’s Book

• Fox News: Dana Carvey Mocks Fauci on Fly on the Wall Podcast

• Defiant World (X): Carvey’s Fauci Bit Goes Viral

• The Glenn Beck Podcast: Rob Schneider on Vaccine Mandates