Hey Geek fans! AI isn’t just a buzzword in the tech world anymore! With it continually advancing at a rapid pace, it’s starting to pop up everywhere! From business, to healthcare, to art and photography, and even the film industry! Would you believe it! In this blog, we’re spilling the secrets on 6 movies that quietly used AI in movies (pre- and post-production) to help bring their movies to life!

Think you’re a bit of a movie buff? Let’s see if you recognise any of these films that got a little behind-the-scenes help from their good friend, artificial intelligence!

Emilia Pérez

The academy award winning musical Emilia Pérez was announced to have used a touch of AI by sound mixer, Cyril Holtz. In an interview at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.

After considering a vocal double, creators decided to use the AI voice cloner Respeecher. Apparently, this was because lead actress Karla Sofia Gascón struggled to hit the high notes the role demanded. It was also mentioned that the AI technology was used in an attempt to make Gascón sound a little bit more like late 1990s Cher.

What do you think about AI in movies being used to enhance an actress’s vocal abilities to suit a role or even to improve their likeness to another singer?

The Brutalist

Like Emilia Pérez, The Brutalist, directed by Brady Corbet and starring Adrien Brody, used the AI software Respeecher in post-production. However, in this case it was used to improve actors’ Hungarian dialogue.

In fact, Editor Dávid Janscó who is native Hungarian, used his own voice as a source to improve pronunciation. Receiving some flak for the decision to use AI, creators reassured movie-goers that no English language was changed. They also reassured that all was done by the sound team and Respeecher in post-production to refine vowels and letters. All to improve the authenticity of the film.

Also of note, the movie used a generative AI based tool to help create the architectural designs for László Tóth. This is the fictional architect in the film.

Civil War

Unlike the other two films that used AI in post-production, the 2024 film Civil War took a different approach. They used AI to create images for the film’s marketing campaign. These promotional posters showed AI-generated, post-apocalyptic scenes set in major United States cities.

It was a good example of how AI in movies still has a long way to go. Some of the images had obvious mistakes. For example, the famous Marina Towers being placed on opposite sides of the river instead of next to each other. And even a car that somehow had three doors.

Errors aside, some moviegoers felt the posters were misleading. Setting up expectations that didn’t quite match what the film actually delivered.

So, what do you think? Did the marketing team behind Civil War genuinely miss these AI slip-ups? Or were they clever enough to know the mistakes would spark debate on a popular topic and draw more attention to the film?

The Star Wars franchise

Because Star Wars: A New Hope and then the following prequel films were released at least 22 years apart, the creators behind Star Wars had to take advantage of AI technology in later years to avoid re-casting some of the original 1977 actors.

For example, in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, one of the more recent films, they used deepfake technology to recreate a young Princess Leia (originally played by Carrie Fisher) and Grand Moff Tarkin (originally played by Peter Cushing). This allowed their characters to appear in the movie without re-casting.

Oh! And here’s a pretty cool story! Towards the end of 2020, a YouTuber known as Shamook uploaded an improved deepfake of a de-aged Luke Skywalker (played by Mark Hamill) in the Mandalorian films. It caught so much attention that ILM/Lucasfilm ended up hiring him in 2021! So it’s safe to say we’ll be seeing a lot more AI magic in future films.

The Irishman

Like the Star Wars franchise, The Irishman used AI for de-aging it’s actors. The actors in question included Al Pacino, Joe Pesci and of course the lead actor himself, Robert De Niro.

VFX artist Pablo Helman explained that they took clips featuring the actors from movies like Home Alone, The Godfather, Casino and Good Fellas. As well as hundreds of others. They then put these clips through an AI program that would look for similar camera angles and lighting. The program would then generate frames that looked like their younger versions in the same position.

Both the AI softwares, Face Swap and Industrial Light and Magic were used.

Late Night with the Devil

Finally, last on our list is the 2023 horror film, Late Night with the Devil. However, their implementation of AI is very brief in the film.

After horror fans expressed disappointment over the use of AI art in the film, directors Colin and Cameron Cairnes defended the project. They clarified that only three still AI-generated images were used as part of an early experiment, and no other part of the film involved artificial intelligence. They also pointed out that those images were further edited before being included in the final cut, emphasising that AI was used more as inspiration rather than a final product.

And there you have it! Six movies that used AI in their final cut!

Curious about how to tell the difference between real and AI-generated content? Check out our blog, How to Spot AI Images, for some handy tips.

In the meantime, what’s your take on AI in entertainment? Are you all for it, or do you prefer your content made the old-fashioned way… by humans?

Instead of trying to pull your kids away from their devices all school holidays 2025, why not guide them towards using tech in a way that supports learning? From educational games for kids to mathematics education software, there are loads of ways to make the most of digital technology education while still having fun.

Check out some of our favourite school holiday activities below. Perfect for keeping minds active and parents sane!

Before we begin: Have a chat about digital online safety!

Before leaving your kid’s to their own devices these holidays, it’s important to have a quick (but essential) chat about internet safety. From screen time limits to parental controls and scam awareness, there are a few key things to cover before your child starts browsing solo.

To help out, we’ve got a handy guide for parents, covering everything you should consider to keep your kids safe online. So, before diving into this blog, take a moment to check out our blog on Internet Safety for Kids!

Digital Reading

First up, a great paperless way to get your kids reading, whilst providing a digital technology education, is through digital books or audiobooks.

There are loads of eBook platforms out there, offering both free and paid options. If you’re on Apple, check out Apple Books. Android user? Have a browse through Google Play Books. The Kindle app is another great option. If your kid is a big reader, it might be worth investing in a Kindle device, which will be a lot kinder to their eyes.

All of the apps mentioned above also conveniently offer audio books options, which you can also find through the Spotify app and Audible.

Minecraft

This one will come as a surprise, but would you believe Minecraft is amongst our favourite options for educational games for kids? Why? Because it’s not just about stacking pixelated blocks! Minecraft can teach everything from simple concepts to seriously advanced ones. Kids can explore maths through geometry, shapes, and spatial reasoning; sharpen logic and programming skills with Redstone circuits; and develop resource management strategies — all while encouraging general creativity and fun!

Google Expeditions & Virtual Tours

Has your young one got a passion for geography or history? With Google Arts & Culture, kids can take a virtual field trip to far flung locations. Explore the deep ocean, visit a museum in another country or dive into culture and history across the world and lots more!

All of these awesome activities are paired with great educational content. From easy to read and visually engaging articles, short educational videos, to games and creative tools, your kids will be kept entertained for hours. And we’re sure they’ll have some fun facts they want to share with you as well! That way, you can get amongst the learning too!  

Ted Ed

A TED talk can do so much more than just occupy your kids so you can get some stuff done around the house this school holidays! TED Ed is a one stop website with some of the best educational content online! The kids can choose what subject they’re interested in and learn about anything from “Why can parrots talk?” to “Will the ocean ever run out of fish?”.

Plus, if you want to take it the extra mile, why not encourage the kids to get creative and make their own TED talk about a favourite subject of theirs!

Scratch

This one is a little closer to our heart, with it being computing based and all! Scratch is a free visual coding platform that teaches your kids to code by snapping together colourful blocks, kind of like digital LEGO. They can create their own games, stories and animations—all while learning the basics of programming, problem solving and creative thinking. Are your little ones are already curious about technology and how things work? Scratch is a fun, hands-on way to introduce them to the world of information technology.

Sure, it can be a little difficult to wrap your head around at first, especially as a parent. But, check out this handy article on how to code with Scratch and you’ll be up and away!

Mathletics

Whether your kids are math geniuses or find numbers a bit tricky, consider signing them up for the mathematics education software, Mathletics!

Mathletics is an online maths platform where children can learn through educational games for kids, quizzes, and fun challenges. They can complete lessons based on their school level. Or race against others in live maths games, earn points and certificates, and even get help with tricky problems. It covers topics like addition, subtraction, algebra, and more, so kids can learn at their own pace while having fun with technology!

The platform also offers a 14 day free trial, and otherwise costs $19.95 NZD per child per month!

And that’s it! Some awesome ways to help your kids use tech in a way that actually boosts their learning. With the school holidays around the corner, it’s a great time to get their devices set up right. If you need a hand with parental controls, antivirus installs, or anything else to keep their tech safe and ready for the next school term, Book a Geek today!

Download the Official Paris 2024 Olympics app

To stay informed with the latest updates, schedules and results, make sure to download the official Paris 2024 app. Although the app won’t have every event live, it will let you stay up to date with all the goings on at the games. So, thanks to this valuable tool you can be sure not to miss any of the action.

A few key features of the Paris 2024 Olympics app include:

• Live Updates: Receive real-time notifications on events, results and medal counts.
  
  
• Personalized Schedules: Tailor your in-app experience by selecting your favourite sports, athletes and teams.
  
  
• Exclusive Content: Access behind-the-scenes videos, interviews and stories, published daily during the games.
  
  
• Interactive Maps: Easily navigate the Olympic venues if you’re attending in person. With info about the games, Paris sights and transport options included.

This fun and interactive app is available to download free of charge on both the Google Play Store for Android devices and Apple App Store for iOS devices. So, make sure to get it downloaded and set up before Paris 2024 starts on July 26^th.

How to watch the Olympics in New Zealand

For the Paris 2024 Olympics, Sky has the broadcast rights in New Zealand and will have 12 channels dedicated to showcasing the 32 sports. However, if you don’t have a Sky Box or subscription, then you may still be able to watch along! Thankfully, Sky Open, their free-to-air channel has said they will be screening some events. “Sky Open will play virtually round-the-clock Olympics content free to air, including the breakfast review show and evening highlights show, plus a selection of live content from 7pm to 9am, and replays and highlights at other times.”

Stay up to date with the Kiwi team

So you’ve downloaded the app and you’re set up with Sky or Sky Open. All that’s left is to follow the journey of our Kiwi athletes. The official New Zealand Olympic website has information about all of our nearly 200 athletes competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics, as well as news updates.

If you’re a social media user then make sure to follow The New Zealand Team on their social media channels. They post regular content including interviews, updates and behind the scenes. Allowing you to take a sneak peek into the lives of an Olympian at the Olympic Village. To follow along make sure to check out their channels on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok.

Now you know how to enjoy and stay up to date with everything happening at the Paris 2024 Olympics. If you need some help getting your TV set up or the app downloaded, make sure to get in touch with the team at Geeks on Wheels. We can even make sure your Wi-Fi is up to speed throughout the home for seamless Olympic viewing.

Why?

The company puts its rising costs down to a slowdown in subscribers since the pandemic. Stating that adding advertisements in movies and shows will allow it “to continue investing in compelling content and keep increasing that investment over a long period of time”. So perhaps a small price to pay for better content in the long run?

What could the price increase look like?

Currently, only Amazon’s plan for pricing in the U.S. has been made public. They have shared that the proposed ad-free tier will cost Americans an extra $2.99 per month. This is on top of their current pricing of $14.99 per month. The company has stated that pricing for other countries will be shared at a later date.

When could the rollout happen in New Zealand?

New Zealand hasn’t specifically been mentioned by Amazon regarding its rough timeline for implementing this price tier. However, it has disclosed that ads will firstly be introduced in the U.S., the UK, Germany, and Canada in early 2024. After that, France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Australia will follow suit later in the year.

Despite Amazon Prime rolling out ads being the buzz of the internet right now, we assume Kiwis can rest easy for at least a while longer with our usual subscription fee of $8.00 a month. But, if you do need help with Wi-Fi issues that are making your streaming lag or need assistance with tech repairs on your streaming devices, Book a Geek today! 

Netflix offers such a wide range of shows that it can be difficult to choose one to watch! Here at Geeks on Wheels, we understand the struggle so, to help you decide, we’ve created a list of the best shows on Netflix NZ. Our awesome team has recommended a range of shows, old and new so we’ve got you covered. Hopefully, there’s something for everyone!

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – Cobra Kai

Set years after the events of the original Karate Kid movie in 1984, middle-aged Johnny and Daniel become rivals once again. Johnny is inspired to reopen the Cobra Kai dojo which leads to the old rivals clashing. Suggested by Chantelle – Call Centre Operative – “It’s a great spin on the original movies”.

Ratched

A drama that takes place in a 1940’s asylum. Mildred Ratched begins working at a top psychiatric hospital. It’s not just any hospital however as there is more than meets the eye. Events occur behind closed doors that will have you on the edge of your seat. Recommended by James – Tauranga Technician.

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – Dark

Another drama that received critical acclaim, Dark is set in a small German town after the disappearance of two children. This sets in motion a chain of events that connects the characters to the town’s troubled history back in 1986. Recommended by Peter – Growth Performance Manager – “So well written and extra good. Enjoy.”

The Umbrella Academy

Based on a comic book of the same name, a family of former child superheroes must reunite in order to prevent a looming global apocalypse. Their divergent personalities and powers, however, make this a colossal challenge. Will they come together in time to prevent the end of the world?

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – Star Trek: Discovery

A sci-fi adventure series, this show takes place roughly ten years before the events of the original Star Trek. It follows the crew of the USS Discovery as they explore the galaxy and discover new worlds and life forms. Recommended by Chris – Geek Technical Development Manager.

Social Distance

Shot entirely in isolation, Social Distance focuses on how different people endeavour to stay connected during the COVID19 pandemic. It covers a wide range of people and how their relationships endure both physical and emotional distancing.

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – The Haunting of Bly Manor

This supernatural drama follows an au pair who is hired by a client to look after his niece and nephew. Shortly after arriving, however, she begins to notice strange occurrences that unravel a grim history. Recommended by Lexi – Marketing Coordinator – “Has me on the edge of my seat and it’s really artistic! I love it!”

Good Girls

A comedy-drama centred around three suburban mums who decide to pull off an unlikely heist by robbing a local supermarket. The successful heist attracts the attention of a local gang who force them to continually raise the stakes.

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – The Witcher

Based on the book series of the same name, The Witcher follows monster hunter Geralt of Rivia. As Geralt journeys towards his destiny in a medieval fantasy world, he realises that people often prove more monstrous than the monsters he hunts. Recommended by Will – Call Centre Operative – “Really does the book series justice and is well worth a watch”.

Stranger Things

An international smash hit, Stranger Things is a story about a young boy who goes missing in a 1980’s American town. As a result, his friends start to uncover a mystery that involves shadowy government agencies and terrifying supernatural forces. Suggested by Will – Call Centre Operative – “Has a great mix of suspense and action, definitely worth your time”.

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – Peaky Blinders

Set in the early 1900’s England in the aftermath of World War One, this show follows the exploits of the real Peaky Blinders gang. Full of action, intrigue and drama. Above all, this is one that will certainly keep you on the edge of your seat!

How to Get Away with Murder

A legal thriller that follows talented criminal defence attorney and law professor Annalise Keating and her students as they become involved in a complex murder case that has the potential to change all of their lives forever. Recommended Phillip – Auckland Technician.

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – The Queen’s Gambit

This miniseries follows a nine-year-old orphan, Beth, and her rise to fame as a child chess prodigy. Fame comes at a cost. After that, it will become clear see how much of an impact it has on Beth. Recommended by Lexi – Marketing Coordinator – “I love how artistic and beautiful this is. The wildly clashing patterns of the 60’s and intriguing characters make chess sexy”

Best Shows on Netflix NZ – The 100

Set years after a catastrophic nuclear war, the only known survivors are the residents of ‘The Ark’, a massive space station orbiting the earth. After 97 years of orbiting the planet, 100 teenagers are deemed expendable and will be sent to the planet’s surface to determine if humanity can reclaim their home. Recommended by Chantelle – Call Centre Operative

We’d love to hear about your favourite TV Shows on Netflix. Comment below and we’ll add them to our list!

Check out our other blogs;

• Best Apps you NEED in NZ 2020
• 50 Best Movies on Netflix NZ | (UPDATED) 2020

Before we get started, check out our super awesome Tech Tips on Youtube. If you want to know how to connect Netflix to your Google Home and watch movies using only voice commands – watch the video.

Howl’s Moving Castle

When an unconfident young woman is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch, her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking castle. Suggested by Robyn – Accounts – It’s a Studio Ghibli film about wizards witches and demons. The characters are cute and it’s a nice change from your standard kid’s movie! IMDB 8.2/10 

Sicario

An idealistic FBI agent is enlisted by a government task force to aid in the escalating war against drugs at the border area between the U.S. and Mexico.

Suggested by Andy, Wellington Technician – Always love a good drug lord assassin movie. IMDB 7.6/10

Primal Fear

An altar boy is accused of murdering a priest, and the truth is buried several layers deep.

Suggested by Matt W, CEO – Gotta say one of the best Thrillers with a “MAD” twist we’ve seen. Highly recommended! IMDB – 7.7/10

The Shawshank Redemption

One of the finest films ever made in history, no wonder IMDB choose this as highest-rated ever (9.3). Powerful and well written Script. You can feel the real adrenalin rush in the climax. This movie shows the real meaning of HOPE. Each dialogue in this movie will drive you into the characters.

Suggested by Sanju, Auckland Technician –  Make sure you watch this movie in head-set or alone or away from all distractions. You will feel like ” I watched the best movie of my LIFE”. IMDB 9.3/10 

Superbad

Two co-dependent high school seniors are forced to deal with separation anxiety after their plan to stage a booze-soaked party goes awry.

Suggested by Scott, Tauranga Technician – It is hilarious, takes you back to your school days with your mates and getting up to mischief while trying to navigate your teen years. IMDB 7.6/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Red 2

The high-octane action-comedy sequel to the worldwide sleeper hit Red. Retired black-ops CIA agent Frank Moses reunites his unlikely team of elite operatives for a global quest to track down a missing portable nuclear device. To succeed, they’ll need to survive an army of relentless assassins, ruthless terrorists and power-crazed government officials. All eager to get their hands on the next-generation weapon. The mission takes Frank and his motley crew to Paris, London and Moscow. Outgunned and outmanned, they have only their cunning wits, their old-school skills, and each other to rely on as they try to save the world-and stay alive in the process. Suggested by Paul – Waikato Technician ‘Just as good as the original, great cast and funny’. IMDB – 6.6/10

The Nice Guys – Humour/Easy Watch

Holland March (Ryan Gosling) is a down-on-his-luck private eye in 1977 Los Angeles. Jackson Healy (Russell Crowe) is a hired enforcer who hurts people for a living. Fate turns them into unlikely partners after a young woman named Amelia (Margaret Qualley) mysteriously disappears. Healy and March soon learn the hard way that some dangerous people are also looking for Amelia. Their investigation takes them to dark places as anyone else who gets involved in the case seems to wind up dead. Suggested by Paul – Waikato Technician – ‘Funny and set in the 70s. Good story and a great movie to just enjoy without having to think too hard’. IMDB – 7.4/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Beasts of No Nation – Tear Jerker

This film follows the journey of a young boy, Agu, who is forced to join a group of soldiers in a fictional West African country. While Agu fears his commander and many of the men around him, his fledgling childhood has been brutally shattered by the war raging through his country, and he is at first torn between conflicting revulsion and fascination Depicts the mechanics of war and does not shy away from explicit, visceral detail, and paints a complex, difficult picture of Agu as a child soldier. Suggested by Jon – Wellington Technician – ‘A film that will warm your heart just as quickly as it will break it’. IMDB 7.7/10

Wine Country – Relatable/Humour

In honour of Rebecca (Rachel Dratch)’s 50th birthday, Abby (Amy Poehler) plans a scenic Napa getaway with their best, longtime friends. Workaholic Catherine (Ana Gasteyer), post-op Val (Paula Pell), homebody Jenny (Emily Spivey), and weary mom Naomi (Maya Rudolph) are equally sold on the chance to relax and reconnect at wineries. Yet as the alcohol flows, real world uncertainties intrude on the punchlines and gossip, and the women begin questioning their friendships and futures. A hilarious and heartfelt comedy directed by Poehler, Wine Country co-stars Tina Fey, Jason Schwartzman and Cherry Jones. – Suggested by Lexi – Marketing Assistant – ‘This had me on the floor belly laughing – reminded me of bridesmaids!’ IMDB 5.5/10

Mowgli – Jungle Book Remake

Human child Mowgli is raised by a wolf pack in the jungles of India. As he learns the often harsh rules of the jungle, under the tutelage of a bear named Baloo and a panther named Bagheera, Mowgli becomes accepted by the animals of the jungle as one of their own, but the fearsome tiger Shere Khan doesn’t take a liking to him. But there may be greater dangers lurking in the jungle, as Mowgli comes face to face with his human origins. Suggested by Chantelle – Call Centre Operative – ‘the animation is super realistic and the characters are portrayed really well. Plus awesome to watch a twisted version of an old classic’. IMDB – 6.5/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Florence Foster Jenkins – Based on a True Story

Florence Foster Jenkins, an heiress from NYC, always wanted to be a concert pianist and play Carnegie Hall. An injury in her youth deterred that dream, so she sets out to sing her way to Carnegie Hall, knowing the only way to get there would be, “Practice, practice, practice”. Her husband supports her venture, and Florence Foster Jenkins’ performance at Carnegie Hall becomes a truly historic event. Suggested by Robyn – Accounts – ‘I watched Florence Foster Jenkins recently. It’s based on a true story about this really bad singer who got famous in the 40’s. Your ears will get hurt but it’s also a bit of a laugh’. IMDB 6.8/10

Chef – One for the Foodies

Carl Casper is an acclaimed chef with a family life that seems as decaying as his artistic freedom. Those frustrations boil over into a raucous viral-videoed public confrontation against a restaurant critic who panned his cooking of food that his boss ordered him to make against his instincts. Now with his career ruined, Carl’s ex-wife offers an unorthodox solution in Miami: refit an old food truck to offer quality cooking on his own terms.

Now with his young son, Percy, and old colleague, Martin, helping, Carl takes a working trip across America with that truck to rediscover his gastronomic passion. With Percy’s tech savvy and Martin’s enthusiasm, Carl finds that he is creating a traveling sensation on the way home. In doing so, Carl discovers he is serving up more than simply food, but also a deeper connection with his life and his family that is truly delicious in its own way. Suggested by Robyn – Accounts. IMDB 7.3/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Jurassic Park – Classic

Huge advancements in scientific technology have enabled a mogul to create an island full of living dinosaurs. John Hammond has invited four individuals, along with his two grandchildren, to join him at Jurassic Park. But will everything go according to plan? A park employee attempts to steal dinosaur embryos, critical security systems are shut down and it now becomes a race for survival with dinosaurs roaming freely over the island. Suggested by Robyn – Accounts – Jurassic Park what a classic! IMDB – 8.1/10

Black Mirror Bandersnatch – Choose Your Own Adventure

984. Stefan is developing a computer game based on the book ‘Bandersnatch’, a novel where you get to make choices and this determines the story. He has an opportunity to take his game to Tuckersoft, a software company, and have them release it. However, the more he works on the game the more his life emulates the game, with choices being made that are out of his control. Stefan appears to be going insane. Suggested by Reuben – Christchurch Technician – Well my favourite Netflix movie of all time is Black Mirror Bandersnatch.  It’s like a choose your own adventure movie. It is considered a thriller/horror I think, so preface that warning, but it’s a lot of fun. IMDB – 7.2/10

The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions – Yes They are All On There!

Thomas A. Anderson is a man living two lives. By day he is an average computer programmer and by night a hacker known as Neo. Neo has always questioned his reality, but the truth is far beyond his imagination. Neo finds himself targeted by the police when he is contacted by Morpheus, a legendary computer hacker branded a terrorist by the government. Morpheus awakens Neo to the real world, a ravaged wasteland where most of humanity have been captured by a race of machines that live off of the humans’ body heat and electrochemical energy and who imprison their minds within an artificial reality known as the Matrix.

As a rebel against the machines, Neo must return to the Matrix and confront the agents: super-powerful computer programs devoted to snuffing out Neo and the entire human rebellion. Suggested by Lexi – Marketing Assistant – ‘There’s nothing I don’t like about The Matrix. It’s captivating, exciting and cool. The clothes are awesome and so is the concept, somewhat relatable too.’ IMDB – 8.7/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Something’s Gotta Give – Love Story

Harry Sanborn is an aged music industry exec with a fondness for younger women like Marin, his latest trophy girlfriend. Things get a little awkward when Harry suffers a heart attack at the home of Marin’s mother Erica. Left in the care of Erica and his doctor, a love triangle starts to take shape. Suggested by Lexi Marketing Assistant – ‘Funny, ridiculous and lovely all at the same time.’ IMDB – 6.7/10

Transformers: Age of Extinction – Geekathon!

After the battle between the Autobots and Decepticons that levelled Chicago, humanity thinks that all alien robots are a threat. So Harold Attinger, a CIA agent, establishes a unit whose sole purpose is to hunt down all of them. But it turns out that they are aided by another alien robot who is searching for Optimus Prime. Cade Yeager, a “robotics expert”, buys an old truck and upon examining it, he thinks it’s a Transformer. When he powers it up, he discovers it’s Optimus Prime. Later, men from the unit show up looking for Optimus. He helps Yeager and his daughter Tessa escape but are pursued by the hunter. They escape and Yeager learns from technology he took from the men that a technology magnate and defense contractor named Joshua Joyce is part of what’s going on, so they go to find out what’s going on. IMDB – 5.6/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Midnight Special – SCI – FI

Alton Meyer is a boy unlike any other in the world with bizarrely powerful abilities and strange weaknesses. In the middle of the night, his father, Roy, spirits him away from the isolated cult that practically worships him and is determined to regain him at all costs. At the same time, Alton’s abilities have been noticed by the US government as well and they are equally insistent on getting to the bottom of this mystery with Paul Sevier of the National Security Agency leading the Federal pursuit with his own questions. These rival hunts force father and son into a desperate run towards a looming date with destiny that could change everything. Suggested by Mat – Call Centre Manager – ‘It’s cool!’ IMDB – 6.6.

Storks – This Ones For The Kids!

Storks deliver babies…or at least they used to. Now they deliver packages for global internet giant Cornerstore.com. Junior, the company’s top delivery stork, is about to be promoted when he accidentally activates the Baby Making Machine, producing an adorable and wholly unauthorized baby girl. Desperate to deliver this bundle of trouble before the boss gets wise, Junior and his friend Tulip, the only human on Stork Mountain, race to make their first-ever baby drop – in a wild and revealing journey that could make more than one family whole and restore the storks’ true mission in the world. – Suggested by Mat – Call Centre Manager – ‘great for the kids!’ IMDB – 6.8/10

Polar – Based On A Comic Book

The world’s top assassin, Duncan Vizla, aka The Black Kaiser, is settling into retirement when his former employer marks him as a liability to the firm. Against his will, he finds himself back in the game going head-to-head with an army of younger, faster, ruthless killers who will stop at nothing to have him silenced. Suggested by Mark – Outbound Calling Operative. IMDB 6.3/10

The Big Short – Biography, Comedy & Drama

In 2008, Wall Street guru Michael Burry realizes that a number of subprime home loans are in danger of defaulting. Burry bets against the housing market by throwing more than $1 billion of his investors’ money into credit default swaps. His actions attract the attention of banker Jared Vennett (Ryan Gosling), hedge-fund specialist Mark Baum (Steve Carell) and other greedy opportunists. Together, these men make a fortune by taking full advantage of the impending economic collapse in America.  IMDB – 7.8/10

The Irishman

Frank “The Irishman” Sheeran is a man with a lot on his mind. The former labor union high official and hitman, learned to kill serving in Italy during the Second World War. He now looks back on his life and the hits that defined his mob career, maintaining connections with the Bufalino crime family. In particular, the part he claims to have played in the disappearance of his life-long friend, Jimmy Hoffa, the former president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, who mysteriously vanished in late July 1975 at the age of 62. Suggested by Andrew – Geek Hotline Technician – ‘You can’t say anything about best current Netflix movies without mentioning The Irishman’. – IMDB – 8.1/10 

Best Movies on Netflix – Marriage Story – Academy Award Nominated Director

MARRIAGE STORY is Academy Award nominated filmmaker Noah Baumbach’s incisive and compassionate look at a marriage breaking up and a family staying together. The film stars Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver. Laura Dern, Alan Alda, and Ray Liotta co-star.
Suggested by Sanju – Auckland Technician – ‘A real art of life and acting. IMDB – 8.1

El Camino – Breaking Bad Movie

Finally free from torture and slavery at the hands of Tod’s uncle Jack, and from Mr. White, Jesse must escape demons from his past. He’s on the run from a police manhunt, with his only hope of escape being Saul Goodman’s hoover guy, Ed Galbraith. A man who for the right price, can give you a new identity and a fresh start. Jesse is racing against the clock, with help from his crew, avoiding capture to get enough money together to buy a ‘new dust filter for his Hoover MaxExtract PressurePro model’, a new life. Suggested by Sanju – Auckland Technician – ‘It really gave justice to the series! – IMDB – 7.4 

The Invitation – Edge of Your Seat

Will and Eden were once a loving couple. After a tragedy took their son, Eden disappeared. Two years later, out of the blue, she returns with a new husband… and as a different person, eerily changed and eager to reunite with her ex and those she left behind. Over the course of a dinner party in the house that was once his, the haunted Will is gripped by mounting evidence that Eden and her new friends have a mysterious and terrifying agenda. But can we trust Will’s hold on reality? Or will he be the unwitting catalyst of the doom he senses? Suggested by Lexi – Marketing Assistant – ‘I spent most of watching the movie holding my breath’. – IMDB 6.6/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Limitless – SCi-Fi / Thriller

An action-thriller about a writer who takes an experimental drug that allows him to use 100% of his mind. As one man evolves into the perfect version of himself, forces more corrupt than he can imagine mark him for assassination. Out-of-work writer Eddie Morra’s (Cooper) rejection by girlfriend Lindy (Abbie Cornish) confirms his belief that he has zero future. That all vanishes the day an old friend introduces Eddie to NZT, a designer pharmaceutical that makes him laser-focused and more confident than any man alive. Now on an fuelled odyssey, everything Eddie’s read, heard or seen is instantly organised and available to him. As the former nobody rises to the top of the financial world, he draws the attention of business mogul Carl Van Loon (De Niro), who sees this enhanced version of Eddie as the tool to make billions, but brutal side effects jeopardise his meteoric ascent.

With a dwindling stash and hit men who will eliminate him to get the NZT, Eddie must stay wired long enough to elude capture and fulfil his destiny. If he can’t, he will become just another victim who thought he’d found invincibility in a bottle. IMDB – 7.4/10

Best Movies on Netflix – Gone Girl – Drama, Mystery, Thriller

On the occasion of his fifth wedding anniversary, Nick Dunne reports that his wife, Amy, has gone missing. Under pressure from the police and a growing media frenzy, Nick’s portrait of a blissful union begins to crumble. Soon his lies, deceits and strange behaviour have everyone asking the same dark question: Did Nick Dunne kill his wife? IMDB 8.1/10

Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs – For the Kids

Flint Lockwood thinks he’s a genius. But none of the things he invented are things that make sense or are useful. However, he has the support of his mother but when she dies, he’s left alone with his father who thinks he should give it up. When the community that he lives in is in an economic crisis because their primary source of income, a sardine cannery, was shut down, Flint decides to try his latest invention, a machine that can turn water into food. But something goes wrong and the machine ends up in the atmosphere.

Later it starts raining food. The shifty mayor tries to use this as a way to help their community, but when Flint senses something wrong with the machine, the mayor convinces him to ignore it. However, as Flint predicts, chaos ensues. Suggested by Lexi – ‘I saw this in the cinema when I was a kid and LOVED it!’ – IMDB 6.9/10

The Imitation Game – War Film

Based on the real life story of legendary cryptanalyst Alan Turing. The film portrays the nail-biting race against time by Turing and his brilliant team of code-breakers. They work at Britain’s top-secret Government Code and Cypher School at Bletchley Park, during the darkest days of World War II. Suggested by Cathy – Director – ‘ I love Benedict Cumberbatch and Kiera Knightly in this film!’ IMDB – 8/10

More Best Movies on Netflix:

Musicals:

• LALA Land
• Mamma Mia
• Dirty Dancing
• Hairspray

Humour:

• White Chicks
• Step Brothers
• The Nutty Professor
• The Invention of Lying

For Kids:

• Shreck
• Matilda
• Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them
• Honey
• Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events
• The Witches
• The Goonies

Marathons

• Harry Potter
• The Hunger Games
• Twilight
• Lord of The Rings

More:

• Midnight in Paris
• IRobot
• Django
• Now You See Me

We hope that you enjoy watching these movies as much as we did! No more wasted time spent searching for movies on Netflix. Don’t forget this blog will always be here for when you are stuck! In fact we will keep updating it all year! Happy watching Geek Fans!

So, you’ve purchased the Google Home Smart speaker! You’re now only one step away from having a smart home; a home where you can use voice activation to control your lighting, heating, and electronic devices! Set up the google home mini easily and quickly.

And fortunately, after plugging it in, the set up process is pretty straightforward. Phew! Just follow our simple setup videos on the following:

• Set Up Google Home Mini – How To
• How to Connect Netflix to Google Home Mini

Set Up Google Home Mini – How To

It’s never been easier to get hands free help in any room of the house. The Google Home Mini has the power to answer all of your burning questions. Furthermore you can instruct your Google Home speaker to:

• Play music from your Spotify account.
• Keep you organised by setting alarms and calendar events using only your voice.
• Connect to other smart devices like plugs, lights and your TV so your home is fully connected!

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Click here to download the printable pdf guide – use this whilst watching the video.

Step 2: Watch the video and let the lovely Chantelle show you how to set up your Google Home Mini.

How to Connect Spotify to Google Home Mini

Listen to your favourite tunes with your Google Home Mini. This easy step by step tutorial will help you connect to your Spotify account and can show you how to change a song, turn up the volume and use other Spotify features by using your voice.

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Click here to download the printable pdf guide – use this whilst watching the video.

Step 2: Watch the video and let the legend Logan show you how to set up Spotify and listen to music on your Google Home Mini. Try not to get too distracted by his epic dance moves.

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