A wedding band should look good, feel good, and last. The right men’s wedding band or women’s wedding band matches your routine, stacks cleanly if you wear an engagement ring, and needs little fuss. Use this guide to choose metal, width, profile, and finish with confidence.
Men’s wedding band
Most guys want clean lines and durability. Popular men’s wedding bands run 4 to 6 mm. A flat profile reads modern. A slightly domed profile feels classic. A brushed finish hides small scratches. High polish brings shine if you plan on quick touch-ups once a year. Yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold all work. Select a tone that complements your watch and daily jewelry. If you want something personal and unique, you can also check jewelry that a working with custom-made designs.
Source: Capucinne.com
Women’s wedding band
Decide if you will stack with an engagement ring or wear the band solo. For women’s wedding bands, a straight, slim band pairs well with low settings. Curved or V contour bands hug pears, marquise, kites, and other shaped centers. For solo wear, a 2 to 3 mm plain band in yellow, white, or rose gold looks clean and fits any outfit. A half pavé band adds sparkle without bulk.
Yellow gold wedding band
Warm and timeless. It suits many skin tones and effectively conceals small imperfections. Yellow gold pairs nicely with vintage cuts and with natural stones like moss agate if you like a grounded look. 14k vs 18k: 14k is a touch harder and more scratch-resistant, good for daily wear. 18k has a richer color and a bit more weight, great if you want a luxe feel. Finishes: High polish gives a bright look. Brushed or satin hides micro scratches. Hammered adds quiet texture without feeling busy. Stacking: Works with both men’s and women’s wedding bands and plays well with mixed metal stacks. Yellow gold next to white gold creates a clean contrast. Care: Simple soap and water to clean. Occasional polish brings back shine. No plating needed.
Rose gold wedding band
Soft copper tone that suits many hands. It pairs well with white diamonds, sapphires, and even alexandrite since the metal can pull a touch of warmth from the stone. 14k vs 18k: 14k rose gold is slightly sturdier and often a bit pinker. 18k reads deeper and more rosy. Skin tone and style: Complements neutral and warm undertones and looks great in thin stacking bands or contour bands for engagement ring sets. Durability: Similar to yellow gold. The color is alloyed through the metal, not a surface layer, so it will not fade with normal wear. Care: Same as yellow gold. Wipe with a soft cloth and wash with mild soap as needed.
White gold wedding band
Neutral and crisp. It matches platinum jewelry and cool colored stones. Rhodium plating keeps it bright, so plan to replate from time to time. Alloy and plating: Most white gold contains a small amount of nickel. If you have sensitive skin, ask for nickel-free or palladium white gold. Expect rhodium replating every 12 to 24 months based on wear. 14k vs 18k: 14k is a bit tougher for daily knocks. 18k feels heavier and takes a high polish very well. Look and stacking: Ideal with sapphire and alexandrite if you want to highlight cooler tones and color change. Pairs cleanly with modern flat profiles and channel-set bands.
Bands with stones
Diamonds and sapphires are popular for daily wear. Channel or bar settings protect edges. For a minimal look, try a single flush-set diamond. If you want color, sapphires come in blue, green, yellow, pink, and white. Alexandrite can be used if you like a color shift, though most people choose it for engagement centers rather than bands. Keep stones modest for comfort.
Should Wedding Bands Match, or Not? Totally Up to You.
Your rings don’t have to match, unless you want them to. Some couples love the symmetry of matching metals or finishes, while others prefer a shared detail: a subtle groove, a hidden stone, or a personal engraving inside.
But Fit First
Here’s the thing: fingers aren’t the same all day. Heat, hydration, and even time can affect how a ring fits. Try bands on in the afternoon when your hands are at their “real-world” size. If your knuckle’s bigger than the base of your finger, ask about comfort-fit styles or inserts that help the ring slide on and off easily. Also, width matters. Wider bands (6mm and up) might need to be sized a bit up. Thin, minimal bands usually fit true. Planning to stack rings? Try them on together to make sure the fit feels right when they’re worn as a set. And remember: not all rings resize easily. Gold usually adjusts one or two sizes, but full eternity bands and tension-set designs are tricky. White gold may also need a rhodium refresh after resizing. Skip the string trick, use proper metal sizers, and double-check your sizing in US, UK, or EU formats. Move your hand like you normally do: make a fist, type, reach into a pocket. If your size changes with seasons or workouts, ask about temporary adjusters or resize policies.
Go Custom if You Want Something Personal
If you want something that feels one-of-a-kind, custom might be the right route. You can choose your metal, finish, width, profile, and any special touches, like a bevel, two-tone design, or hidden gemstone. Custom is also great if you want a band that stacks cleanly with a uniquely shaped engagement ring, or you need something built around your lifestyle.
What to Do?
Skip the guesswork. Book a short in-person appointment and test out different metals and styles, or book an online meeting with capucinne.com. You’ll learn more in ten minutes of trying bands on than in ten hours of scrolling online. And if you want a ring that truly fits your hand and your story, work with a studio that offers real sizing tools, finish samples, and the option to design something built to last.
Rematch finally launched its third major update, activating the long-awaited Crossplay feature. The September 5 release follows a short delay caused by last-minute issues found by the developers. The patch includes new features, gameplay balance tweaks, and several bug fixes.
Crossplay Arrives After Final Hurdle
According to GameRadar, game studio Sloclap faced last-minute matchmaking problems in the game. The issues happened during the final testing stage before the update’s scheduled release last September 3.
“During our final tests today, we found a major matchmaking issue linked to Crossplay. Since Crossplay is the heart of Patch 3, we’ve decided to delay the release while we fix it,” the Studio’s statement reads on X.
More specifically, the problem had multiple testers stuck in matchmaking. Likewise, they were unable to cancel or restart the process.
With the issue, the developers said that the delay is disappointing. However, Sloclap promised to resolve it quickly, and the update rolled out shortly after.
What Crossplay Means for Players
Based on the official announcement, players on all supported platforms can now play together. In particular, Crossplay refers to cross-platform matchmaking and cross-platform social features. However, Sloclap explains that player progress in Rematch remains platform-specific. Even with the latest patch, players will not be able to access cross-platform progression.
Crossplay is enabled by default, and the developers invite players to keep it that way. They say it helps speed up the matchmaking process. Still, players have the option to turn it off at any time.
Gameplay Tweaks and Bug Fixes
Aside from the Crossplay feature, Patch 3 brings many gameplay improvements and bug fixes. It is considered the largest update to date for Rematch.
MP1ST says that key changes include adjustments to volley shot mechanics. Sloclap reduced the required speed when locking onto volley targets by 10%. Now, players can expect more realistic volleys during Extra Effort. This tweak makes the game more challenging for players. It also removes unrealistic ball movements.
Rematch now has new mouse and keyboard control options. From Joystick Emulation to Directional aiming to Crosshair-only, players can switch between three different options to aim.
Sloclap also improved ball control, goalkeeper vulnerabilities, and tackling responsiveness, among others. At the same time, the update introduces a player reporting feature. It enables players to declare misconduct more directly.
Looking Ahead
The developers are reviewing the production process for the next update, which will mark Season 1. Sloclap also wants to focus on delivering reliable announcements for Rematch. For full patch notes, check out the official Rematch news.
London, July 21–25, 2025 — Presented at Galleria Objects, 92 Brick Lane, London E1 6RL, Branches and Vessels: Ecologies of Kinship and Intimacy was Chinese artist Xinyue Liang’s recent solo exhibition, offering an evocative exploration of ceramics as a language for reimagining family. Over five days, the exhibition staged a dialogue between two interrelated bodies of work—the Jar Series and the Coral Series—through which Liang interrogated the architectures of kinship, women’s growth, and intergenerational continuity.
The Jar Series drew inspiration from the familiar silhouette of traditional Chinese storage vessels. Yet these works exceeded functionality, becoming repositories of memory and affect. Their textured surfaces resembled growth rings, wood grain, or fragments of domestic life, evoking layers of inherited stories. Some rims were deliberately irregular, signaling openness and permeability in communication, while other vessels stood tall and slender, embodying aspirations of continuity and resilience within family structures. Rather than containers for objects, they acted as material metaphors for parental care, lineage, and the tension between inheritance and rupture.
In contrast, the Coral Series brought ecological metaphors into the space of ceramics. Rendered in white porcelain, these branching structures resembled living organisms in constant interdependence. Their forms suggested both fragility and resilience, mirroring the delicate balance of family dynamics and, more specifically, women’s roles within them. Some works appeared as flourishing coral colonies, symbols of vitality and growth; others presented more abstract configurations, hinting at symbiosis, negotiation, and the collaborative trajectories of kinship. The whiteness of the clay amplified this tension—it was at once pure and exposed, simultaneously vulnerable and alive.
The exhibition design resisted linear storytelling. Instead, the jars and corals were placed in proximity, their forms echoing and contradicting one another, creating an environment that felt less like a gallery and more like an ecosystem. Visitors experienced kinship not as a fixed institution but as a porous, evolving organism—negotiated, fragile, and relational.
Crucially, Liang’s approach to ceramics did not rely on nostalgia or a straightforward revival of tradition. Instead, she positioned the medium as a site of translation, where materiality and abstraction could open questions about the contemporary Chinese family. Her works blurred the lines between the utilitarian and the symbolic, between personal memory and collective narrative, offering ceramics as both object and metaphor.
Ultimately, Branches and Vessels demonstrated that family is neither static nor unidirectional. It is, like coral reefs or vessels of clay, a structure that contains, leaks, and regenerates. Liang invited viewers to imagine kinship as an ecology: at once fragile and resilient, intimate yet permeable, rooted in tradition while constantly being rewritten in the present.
Exhibition Details
Branches and Vessels: Ecologies of Kinship and Intimacy
Solo exhibition by Xinyue Liang
Galleria Objects, 92 Brick Lane, London E1 6RL July 21–25, 2025
Dating should be exciting a chance to meet new people, share experiences, and create memories. Yet for many people living in Manchester, the process has become exhausting rather than enjoyable.
Whether it’s the endless cycle of swiping on dating apps, awkward first meetings, or conversations that fade into nothing, modern dating can leave you wondering why something so natural feels so difficult.
In a fast-moving city like Manchester, where time is precious and opportunities are everywhere, there has to be a better way to connect with the right person.
The Modern Dating Problem
The dating world has never been more accessible and yet, paradoxically, it has never felt more complicated.
Too much choice, not enough connection
Dating apps give us hundreds of profiles to choose from, but the sheer volume can actually make it harder to connect. With so many options, people often treat matches as disposable, moving on after the slightest imperfection rather than investing in real chemistry.
Unclear expectations
One of the biggest frustrations in dating today is mismatched intentions. Some people want something serious, others prefer casual encounters, and many are simply exploring without a clear goal. Without clarity from the start, it’s easy to waste weeks on someone who isn’t looking for the same thing you are.
The time and energy drain
Between work, social commitments, and everyday responsibilities, fitting in dates can feel like another job. The effort required to filter through messages, plan outings, and build rapport is often greater than the reward.
The emotional toll
When a date doesn’t go as planned, or a promising conversation fades without warning, it can chip away at your enthusiasm. Over time, dating fatigue sets in, and even the thought of starting the process again feels daunting.
A Smarter Approach
Rather than relying on algorithms and chance encounters, more people are turning to a refined, personalised way of meeting companions.
Through carefully managed introductions, you can connect with someone who complements your personality, shares your outlook, and understands the value of your time. With exclusive introductions, the process is not only simplified it’s elevated.
This approach focuses on quality over quantity. Instead of meeting someone who may or may not be a good fit, you start with the certainty that your companion has been selected to align with your preferences.
Why This Works So Well in Manchester
Manchester is a city built for experiences. From its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene to its cultural events and world-class music venues, it offers countless opportunities for memorable moments. But those moments are always better when shared.
Imagine enjoying cocktails at 20 Stories with panoramic views of the city skyline, or taking in a live performance at the Royal Exchange Theatre with a like-minded companion by your side. Picture wandering the art galleries of Spinningfields on a Sunday afternoon, followed by an intimate dinner at a hidden gem in the Northern Quarter.
When you choose tailored companionship, you’re not just arranging a meeting you’re creating a setting for those experiences to unfold naturally.
The Advantage of Discretion
One of the key benefits of a private dating service is discretion. In a world where so much of life is public where dates are documented on Instagram and conversations can be screenshotted there’s something incredibly appealing about keeping your personal life private.
With a professional introduction service, you control when and where you meet, how much information you share, and the pace at which the connection develops. There’s no pressure to make your dating life visible to anyone but yourself.
Removing the Stress
The beauty of a curated approach is that it removes the uncertainty. There’s no wondering if the person you’re meeting will share your values or understand your lifestyle those details have already been considered before you meet.
Instead of small talk over coffee with someone you know nothing about, you can start your evening with genuine ease and comfort. With bespoke arrangements, you can focus entirely on enjoying the moment, knowing the groundwork has been done for you.
Making Time for What Matters
In a city as dynamic as Manchester, your time is one of your most valuable assets. Spending it on lacklustre dates or mismatched connections is more than just frustrating it’s a missed opportunity.
Choosing to meet companions through a refined, private service is about taking control of your dating life. It’s about replacing uncertainty with assurance, awkwardness with ease, and disappointment with enjoyment.
In the realm of messaging apps, Telegram has garnered widespread acclaim for its security features, customization options, and user-friendly interface. While the official Telegram app provides a robust experience, several third-party clients offer unique features and enhancements that cater to diverse user preferences. If you’re an Android user seeking to elevate your messaging experience, here’s a curated list of the five best Telegram client apps, along with their pros, cons, and how they stack up against the official Telegram app.
Telegram (Official App):
As the baseline for comparison, the official Telegram app boasts a sleek interface, end-to-end encryption, and cross-platform synchronization. Its robust feature set includes cloud-based messaging, file sharing, group chats, and voice calls.
Pros:
– Seamless synchronization across devices.
– Regular updates with bug fixes and feature enhancements.
– Strong emphasis on privacy and security.
– Supports large group chats with up to 200,000 members.
– Extensive customization options for chats and notifications.
Cons:
– Limited theme customization compared to some third-party clients.
– Some advanced features may be lacking for power users.
– Occasional issues with message delivery in regions with poor connectivity.
Nicegram:
In comparison Telegram vs Nicegramthis app aims to enhance the user experience with additional features and customization options. It provides a polished interface and exclusive features not found in other clients.
Pros:
– Enhanced privacy options, including the ability to lock chats with passcodes.
– Built-in translator for seamless communication across languages.
– Extensive customization options for themes, fonts, and chat styles.
– Exclusive features such as animated stickers and secret chats.
– Active community and developer support for continual improvements.
Cons:
– Not available on official app stores, requiring manual installation.
– May lack some of the latest features introduced in official Telegram updates.
– Compatibility issues may arise with certain Android versions or devices.
Telegram X:
Developed by Telegram LLC as an experimental alternative to the official app, Telegram X offers a sleeker and faster experience. It incorporates cutting-edge technologies for improved performance and responsiveness.
Pros:
– Swift and responsive interface optimized for speed.
– Experimental features and design enhancements not found in the official app.
– Gesture-based navigation for intuitive use.
– Support for themes and dark mode.
– Continual development with frequent updates and improvements.
Cons:
– Some users may find the experimental features unstable or prone to bugs.
– Limited support for customizations compared to other third-party clients.
– Certain features may be experimental and subject to change or removal.
Telegram PWA (Progressive Web App):
For users who prefer a lightweight and browser-based experience, Telegram PWA offers an alternative to traditional apps. It provides access to Telegram’s core features without the need for installation.
Pros:
– Cross-platform compatibility, accessible from any modern web browser.
– No need for installation or updates, as it runs directly from the browser.
– Fast and responsive performance, especially on devices with limited resources.
– Works seamlessly across multiple devices without the need for synchronization.
Cons:
– Limited functionality compared to dedicated apps, especially for power users.
– Requires an internet connection and may not be suitable for offline use.
– Lack of push notifications on some browsers may result in missed messages.
Plus Messenger:
Positioned as an enhanced version of the official Telegram app, Plus Messenger offers an array of additional features while retaining the core functionality of Telegram. It provides themes, chat bubbles, and extended settings for customization.
Pros:
– Extensive theme support with the ability to create custom themes.
– Enhanced privacy options, including the ability to hide online status.
– Built-in photo and video editor for quick editing before sharing.
– Option for multiple accounts without the need for additional apps.
– Quick access to shared media files within chats.
Cons:
– Occasional stability issues reported by some users.
– Ad-supported model in the free version, which can be intrusive for some.
– May lack some of the latest features introduced in official Telegram updates.
Using Telegram Client for Business
Telegram clients offer numerous benefits for businesses, enhancing communication, collaboration, and customer engagement. Let’s discuss the main benefits.
Enhanced Security: Telegram clients offer robust security features, including end-to-end encryption and self-destructing messages, ensuring that sensitive business information remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access or interception.
Efficient Communication: With the ability to create large group chats accommodating up to 200,000 members, Telegram clients facilitate seamless communication within teams, departments, or even with clients and customers. This fosters collaboration, idea sharing, and quick decision-making processes, enhancing overall productivity.
File Sharing: Telegram’s file-sharing capabilities enable easy exchange of documents, media files, presentations, and other business-related materials. This streamlines workflow, eliminates the need for cumbersome email attachments, and ensures that everyone has access to the latest information in real-time.
Automation with Bots: Telegram’s support for bots allows businesses to automate various tasks, such as customer support, lead generation, appointment scheduling, and data retrieval. Bots can handle routine inquiries, provide instant responses, and streamline processes, freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.
Marketing Opportunities: Telegram channels provide businesses with a powerful platform for marketing campaigns, promotions, and announcements. With the ability to broadcast messages to large audiences, companies can effectively engage with their target market, share updates, and drive customer engagement and loyalty.
Integration with Third-Party Services: Many Telegram clients offer integration with third-party services and platforms, allowing businesses to connect their Telegram accounts with other tools and applications they use for project management, CRM, email marketing, and more. This integration enhances workflow efficiency and enables seamless data sharing across platforms.
Comparative Analysis
While each Telegram client offers unique features and enhancements, the choice ultimately boils down to individual preferences and priorities. The official Telegram app provides a reliable and secure messaging experience with regular updates and robust privacy features. Third-party clients cater to users seeking additional customization options, experimental features, or exclusive enhancements not found in the official app.
With an array of Telegram client apps available for Android, users have the flexibility to choose the one that best aligns with their preferences and usage patterns. Whether you prioritize customization, speed, or exclusive features, there’s a Telegram client out there to suit your needs. By exploring these options, you can elevate your messaging experience and unlock new possibilities for communication and collaboration.
If you have ever visited 123movies to watch your favourite shows or series, you would know how cool it was in 2015. In fact, it was heaven for movie lovers as it had thousands of TV series and top shows you could watch without paying a cent. It had a whopping 98 million visitors per month. However, its pirated content and increasing popularity led to its demise, as it was taken down in 2018 after the intervention of global filmmaker companies like the Motion Pictures Association.
The status of 123movies and its best alternatives remains a popular topic of discussion. For those interested in wagering, betting without spelpaus or license provides greater flexibility and access to international markets.
The service had its headquarters in Vietnam. The website has operated under multiple domain names, such as 123movies.to, 0123movies.net, and 123movies.la. In this article, we will discuss what has happened to 123movies, the best 123movies alternatives and a guide to TV shows and free movies.
What has happened to 123movies?
The long-term absence of the 123movies website has forced movie lovers to ask questions like, Has 123movies been shut down? 123movies was labelled “the most visited illegal site in the world” by the Motion Picture Association’s executive vice president. It had an estimated monthly traffic of around 99 million users before it was forced to shut down in 2018.
Later, Hollywood industry executives started monitoring the website in 2016, along with other websites and services that encouraged the unauthorized release of films and television series. In a report sent to the Office of the U.S. Attorney that year, executives listed 123movies among the famous pirate sites. The American ambassador to Vietnam met with the country’s minister of information and communications in March 2017 to urge Vietnamese authorities to investigate and file charges against the site’s owners.
Does 123movies Still Work?
Several 123movies clone websites have been blocked in various countries. Fortunately, there are still many options available to you. If none of these websites are accessible from your current location, you will have no choice but to get a VPN. The list of working 123movies proxy websites is below so that you can enjoy free movies online. These websites are all up and running right now.
0123movie.net
new-123movies.net
new-123movies.live
0123movie.app
123movies.domains
Most 123movies mirrors and proxies occasionally disappear like flies, making them untrustworthy. It is better to go with the best 123movies alternatives in 2025. They are far more reliable than different clones and mirrors of 123movies.
In addition, residential proxies can act as a stealthy alternative to a VPN, making it harder for websites to detect and block your access.
Is 123movies Legit and Safe?
The 123movies mirror sites are cluttered with pop-ups, advertisements, suspicious links, and possibly dangerous software. You should always be cautious while using clones since you never know who is behind them or what their intentions are. If you choose a safer 123movies alternative, you can avoid these risks.
Using 123movies to watch movies may or may not be legal, depending on where you live and how your country views copyright violations and piracy. Watching pirated content on internet streaming services is acceptable in different countries. However, it is illegal to download, stream, or distribute pirated content in most countries.
Safety Tips for Streaming 123movies Mirror Sites
Given the risks involved, protecting oneself when streaming on 123movies mirror sites is important. Here’s how to keep yourself safe when using 123movies or other similar websites for streaming:
Set up reliable antivirus software: Make sure your device is running updated, reliable antivirus software. It helps identify and block malware that might infiltrate your device through bogus ads and links.
Use a VPN: Your connection is encrypted when you use a VPN, which routes your traffic via a private server. Because of this, it is more difficult for outside parties to monitor your online activity or steal your data. Additionally, it stops criminals from spying on you because of your streaming preferences.
Verify the content you are downloading: Certain 123movies clones might provoke you to download software or media files. Since anything downloaded from these websites may contain malware, it is best to avoid them.
Install an ad blocker: Malicious advertisements are a major source of risk when using 123movies clone sites and streaming services. Malicious ads can be fewer in number and less likely to appear when you use an ad blocker. Some VPNs do have ad blockers.
Don’t share private information: Never enter financial or personal details on any 123movies mirror website. Some may try to provoke you with promises of exclusive offers or premium accounts, but this could be a trap to steal personal information.
Install the latest software updates: Make sure that your computer’s OS, plugins, and browser are constantly updated. Cybercriminals often take advantage of loopholes in out-of-date software.
Discover legal options: Use legitimate 123movies alternatives, if possible. Even while some may require a membership fee, they are safer and provide higher-quality content without the risks that come with 123movies clone websites.
Person watching a horror movie
8 Best 123movies Alternatives in 2025 (Free and Paid)
A free and authorized 123movies alternative is the best choice because there aren’t many reliable 123movies mirrors. This way, you can watch free movies without worrying about viruses, hacking, or other legal implications from streaming unlicensed content. Here are the top 123movies alternatives.
1. Popcornflix (Free)
Popcornflix is a popular streaming service that can be an alternative to 123movies. It is free and legal and offers movies and TV shows to watch on demand. Accessing the service does not require a subscription.
Since this website is free to use, it displays intrusive ads that may negatively impact the user experience. However, a reliable VPN can sort out this problem. A VPN’s built-in ad-blocker feature stops ads from flooding your screen.
2. Crackle (Free)
The list of free 123movies alternatives will be incomplete if we do not include Crackle. Crackle is a free and legal alternative for 123movies with a vast library of films and TV series. You can watch plenty of free content, including documentaries, TV series, shows, and fresh movies.
However, Crackle is only available in the U.S. To unblock it in your country, you can use a reliable VPN. For free legal movie streaming, all you have to do is establish a free account with a U.S. server. BANG!
3. YIFI (Free)
YIFY, or YTS, is a pirate movie site that offers the top new films, television series, songs, shows, and more. Although the service isn’t as functional as 123movies, movie lovers can download and enjoy movies for free.
The majority of the content on the website is pirated, which puts users at risk of fines in the U.S. and other countries. You can use VPNs to protect your privacy if you want to continue using the website.
4. Putlocker (Free)
Putlocker is yet another website with millions of users and massive daily traffic. Like 123movies, it offers consumers a fantastic content library and features.
Putlocker organizes movies and TV series by release date. The platform’s community constantly updates it, so you may find nearly any movie or TV show on it. However, the annoying ads might ruin your overall viewing experience.
5. FMovies (Free)
FMovies is one of the best 123movies alternatives because it has no annoying ads that could interfere with your online experience. It’s reasonable to claim that FMovies’ layout resembles 123movies’ style.
The FMovies website offers an extensive library of movies and shows. If you enjoyed 123movies, we suggest switching to FMovies since it flawlessly imitates 123movies. You can register to access exclusive content.
6. Netflix (Paid)
When it comes to paid 123movies alternatives, Netflix is the best in the business. Billions worldwide have subscribed to this service to access a wide range of content.
Here, you can enjoy movies, TV programs, shows, documentaries, stand-up comedy, and more. However, every library has geo-restrictions based on your country. Moreover, you can download and save your favourite movies and shows to watch them offline.
7. Amazon Prime (Paid)
Amazon Prime Video is a paid alternative to 123movies that viewers have preferred since it was blocked. Amazon is well-known for its several award-winning original films and television series, such as She Said, The Boys, and The Lost Flowers.
Amazon Prime Video offers original content in a wide range of categories. Before getting started, you must sign up for the service and pay for the subscription. You can then download content offline. Every episode is available in 4K, H.D., and UHD versions.
8. Hulu (Paid)
Hulu is an excellent alternative for the 123movies. Hulu is among the biggest and oldest streaming services, much like Netflix. With over 40 million users in the United States, it provides a vast library of films, T.V. series, and Hulu Originals.
Hulu is only available in the United States, while Japan has access to a small collection. However, you can use a VPN to stream Hulu in your country. Hulu is ideal for people who want to watch original content and classic T.V. series.
Conclusion
The strong campaign of top filmmaker companies against the 123movies site marked its end in 2018. Since the actual 123movies site is no longer operational, most mirror sites have viruses, links, ads, and trackers that might risk your security. So, it is better to use 123movies alternatives, which are safe, free, and offer similar or even better content without putting you at risk. Moreover, make sure your preferred streaming devices have antivirus software and an adblocker installed. Cheers!
If you are a 90s kid, you have played and witnessed the hype of Pokemon cards. Today, the Pokemon video game and animated series have skyrocketed the value of these cards for card collectors. Even famous influencers like Logan Paul have started trading them. Yes, it has become that big.
Cards sold at mere dollars are now worth hundreds and thousands, making older cards even harder to find. Similarly, the collectible market for One Piece TCG singles has also seen significant interest among collectors seeking rare and valuable cards. Keep reading. The forthcoming content will discuss the top 30 most expensive Pokemon trading cards for your help.
So, let’s begin!
Top 30 Most Expensive Pokemon Trading Cards
1. Masked Royal Prize Promo Card
Worth: $18,000
The masked royal prize promo is one of the rarest Pokemon cards recently. It features the well-known masked royal character from the Pokemon Sun and Moon series, launched in 2017. Established in Tokyo as an invitation-only card, the masked royal card has only 100 copies worldwide.
2: PSA 10 Poliwrath Holo No Rarity Symbol
Worth: $25,015
This card combines multiple value-enhancing qualities under one roof. Launched in 1996, the card is a part of the Japanese base set with a rarity symbol identifying its printing. As of 2021, only three of those cards are found and put to auction for approximately 25000 dollars.
3: Gold Star Delta Species Holo Dragon Frontiers
Worth: $25,400
The PSA 10 Charizard Gold Star Delta Species Holo Dragon Frontiers was one of the first card cards with an iconic black shiny coloring that greatly enhanced its value. In February, this card was valued at 25400 dollars in an auction organized by PWCC.
4: World Championships Sprint Battle Road 2002 No 1. Trainer Promo
Worth: $31,000
These promo poem cards are valuable due to the lesser number of prints. The same is why these are only provided to the championship finalists. Each Championship card has the name of its owner imprinted on the base.
5: Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy
Worth: $34,100
One of the most expensive cards is the Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy. It was dueled for prizes in 2002 by top players in Japan. The names of cities are printed on it.
6: Holographic Shadowless First Edition
Worth: $35,000
Although not famous, It is one of the most valuable car card players, and it is priced better because of the shadowless version. There are 48 PSA-verified versions of the Holo card currently available worldwide.
7: Daisuki Club Holo Masters Scroll
Worth: $35,200
The Daisuki Pokemon Club was opened in Japan in 2004 to encourage the promotion of Pokemon trading cards, including the Daisuki Club Holo Master’s Scroll. It is one of the club’s most challenging rewards and is awarded to top-notch players only.
8: No Rarity Poliwrath
Worth: $25,000
The card is not rare in itself. Instead, its Japanese version has created hype because only 10 copies of this version exist worldwide. It is interesting to know that the origin of this card was not a conscious decision. Instead, it was a mistake during the printing process of no rarity Poliwrath.
9: PSA 10 Holo Rayquaza Gold Star EX Deoxys
Worth: $40,400
The relation of the card character is directly related to the royal family. Thus, it values the rare EX Deoxys Rayquaza Gold Star, which has only 56 verified PSA 10 quality cards worldwide. However, if put for auctions, experts predict that the pricing can heavily fluctuate. According to the last record, this card was valued at 40400 dollars by Goldin Auctions.
10: PSA 10 Torchic Gold Star Holo EX Team Rocket
Worth: $50,000
The concept of Pokemon mania was at its utmost high during the 2000s. Hence, TCG decided to expand its collection by launching more cards, with the Torchic Gold Star Holo card being one among them. The gold star Pokemon have the Pokemon breaking out of the frame. It is an early example of all the designs TCG was experimenting with then. In an auction, this rare card was valued at 50,000$ each.
11: Japanese Base Set, No Rarity Symbol Holo Venusaur
Worth: $55,000
English card collectors usually consider the first edition stamp the most valued one. Nevertheless, the case is precisely the opposite of the Japanese card. In such cases, the lack of a rarity symbol is more valuable, which is why the Japanese no-rarity symbol holo card is expensive.
It is graded 10 by the PSA, Which skyrocketed its value in the auctions. The difference between this card and others is that it is signed by the famous artist Mistuhiro Arita.
12: World Championship Master’s Key
Worth: $26,900
The copy of this card was sold for about 25000 dollars in 2020. Unlike other Pokemon cards, the master key card was not graded by PSA. Instead, it was valued by Becket. in 2025. Sources suggest that its value is around 27000 dollars.
13: Skyridge Charizard
Worth: $28,100
The variant of Skyridge Charizard was a valuable card in 2020. It was sold for a maximum of a few dollars by players interested in championships and related events; however, due to a minimal number of copies left. Today, it is worth 28100 dollars in auctions. This card often becomes the centerpiece of any trading card display, showcasing its vibrant artwork and historical significance.
14: Summer Battle Road 2007
Worth $3,200
Also known as the miracle diamond, this card used to be awarded to the top three competitors from every division in Japan. It is estimated that about 90 copies of this rare card are present in the world today.
15: Summer Battle Road 2002
Worth: $34,000
The Summer Battle Road 2002 card was granted to the Kanto Summer Battle Road tournament winner, which is now valued at 34000 dollars. A card below the rating of 9 rarely gets sold for more than a few dollars. However, due to the uncommon design, the magic happened with the Summer Battle Road card in March 2021.
16: Master’s Scroll Card
Worth: $35,200
EBay sold the master scroll card for over 35000 dollars in 2021. The Pokemon Daisuki Club, the official fan club of Pokemon players, offers a limited edition of these cards at significant events such as championships.
Some members can also obtain it by doing a certain number of tasks the fan club gives. According to today’s analysis, it is valued at around 35200 dollars in the global market due to its unique design and fewer prints.
17. 1st Edition Shadowless Blastoise
Worth: $45,100
The 1st Edition of Shadowless Blastoise is graded 8, 9, and 10 based upon numerous factors of the variant. The most popular copy remains the PSA 10, which is valued at 45100 dollars all across the globe.
18. Tamamushi University Magikarp
Worth: $66,100
The Tamamushi University Magikarp was produced to promote a magazine. However, it was then awarded to those who became Pokemon professors by passing assessments such as the Super Professor or Hyper Professor tests. Only today, only 91 copies have been identified by PSA.
19. Gold Star POP Series 5 Umbreon
Worth: $70,000
The Japanese version of this card is immensely famous and expensive due to the unique color base no other card has to date.
20. Gold Star Rayquaza
Worth: $45,100
It is one of those cards that is present in abundance. However, only 10 46 copies hold the crown of being certified by the PSA 10. It is a recent addition to TCG, printed in 2005 as part of seven different Rayquaza variants. The main credit for fame goes to the shiny gold start, which provides a unique look to the whole theme.
21. EX Team Rocket Returns Gold Star Torchic
Worth: $50,000
The Gold Star Torchic card from the EX Team is one of those cards that were not initially launched to make big money out of the sales. However, it all changed when a copy was sold for 50000 dollars in an auction in 2021.
Only 17 copies are acknowledged by PSA as having a perfect GEM-MT 10 rating, whereas 322 more have recently been submitted to the company for further inspection. The same is why experts predict that the card might drop its value if more cards get considered by PSA after inspection.
22. 1999 Super Secret Battle No. 1 Trainer
Worth: $90,000
The 1999 Super Secret Battle cards symbolized being an expert in cards during the late 90s and early 2000s. It is so because these cards were awarded to the winners of regional championships in 1999 as the trophy and money to the winner. At the same time, the cardholder also became eligible to enter the Super Secret Battle Finals held in Tokyo on August 22, 1999. The same is why it was one of the most challenging cards to attain then.
23. 2006 Pokemon Promo No. 2 Trainer World Championship card
Worth: $110,100
World championships are the only place where even runner-ups win big prizes. The same is why this card is for all three finalists of the California 2006 championship.
At the same time, it also acted as a ticket for the participants to enter the final round in 2007 without overcoming all the hurdles they otherwise might have needed to face. In February 2021, the card was valued at around $110100 as a PSA 9-graded card.
24. 1998 Trophy Pikachu Gold And Bronze Card
Worth: $128,900
The 1998 tournament in Japan named Pokemon Lizardon Tournament awards the Trophy Pikachu Gold And Bronze to the top three winners of the initial levels. It is a form of prize that is granted to acknowledge their efforts.
25: PSA 10 Neo Genesis First Edition Holo Lugia
Worth: $130,000
The Neo Genesis is the base set of the second-generation Pokemon cards. It was the first time that TCG displayed silver, gold, or crystal cards in their series with some misprints in the bunch.
Still, the card has gained many prizes in the market by being the first edition of this experiment. Nevertheless, PSA has graded only 43 of these as grade 10.
26. Tropical Mega Battle Card
Worth: $60,000
Trainer number 2 was a limited edition deck given to the attendees of the tropical mega battle. The prime purpose of these cards was to provide deserving players with additional privileges when shown in official Pokemon events.
At the same time, PSA approved an authentic copy of this card with a grade 10 that was later sold for 60000 dollars on eBay back in 2019.
27: EX Dragon Frontiers Gold Star Charizard
Worth: $60,066
The EX Dragon Frontiers Gold Star Charizard was printed in 2006 to manage the auction. However, the card soon gained parties’ interest as only 1500 copies of the 10-grade card were passed by PSA.
28: World Championships card 2013
Worth: $65,000
The number 2 trainer card of the world championship in 2013 was the first card to be held outside America despite all the finalists being from the United States. Nevertheless, only one of these 4 cards was graded by PSA, which skyrocketed its price to 65000 dollars.
29: Tropical Mega Battle Card
Worth: $65,000
The Tropical Mega battle card has a minimal copy left worldwide. The same is why one of its mind-conditioning bars was sold for 65,000 dollars. It is one of the earliest cards launched in the Pokemon series. The same is why most variants are destroyed or are highly fragile to sell.
30: PSA 10 Kangaskhan Holo Family Event Trophy Card:
Worth: $175,000
Last but not least, the PSA 10 Kangaskhan Holo Family Event Trophy Card is one of those cards that random players handpicked in earlier days. Nevertheless, today, it is an event trophy card awarded to those who participated in the Japanese Mega Battle Tournament 1998.
Conclusion
Pokemon cards sold for mere dollars a few decades ago are worth hundreds and thousands of dollars today.
Find about 30 cards, such as PSA 10 Neo Genesis First Edition Holo Lugia, 1999 Super Secret Battle No. 1 Trainer, 1st Edition Shadowless Blastoise, Daisuki Club Holo Masters Scroll card, etc, in the content above, along with all the reasons for their fame and increasing value.
So, read the whole content from start to end to unleash all the top-notch cards of the Pokemon world.
Netflix does not play around when it comes to providing viewers with a vast range of content. The company is known for providing viewers with several forms of content. Sexy films make up a vast chunk of the Netflix catalogue. Sexy movies make the best streaming options for a date night or even a solo night when you just want to indulge in some plot-intensive sexy content. We have rounded up some of the sexiest films on Netflix in 2025.
Deadly Illusions
This film was released in 2021 but is still on Netflix’s list of popular movies of 2025. This means that many people are still viewing this film in 2025. One of the hottest scenes in this movie is the bare/nude scene featuring Dermont Mulroney. It is an erotic thriller focused on a murder-mystery writer. The writer, Mary Morrison (Played by Kristin Davis), finds herself at the center of a personal mystery. She is a successful author in a happy marriage to her husband Tom with two kids. Mary’s publisher offers her a deal to write another book and a 2-million-dollar advance, which she initially declines. However, she if forced to accept the offer after her husband discloses that he lost half their estate as a result of a risky investment. Because of this, she is forced to hire a nanny, Grace to help with her kids as she writes the book. However, she experiences writer’s block and turns to her growing friendship with Grace as an inspiration for her book.
Mary starts to have sexual fantasies about Grace. These fantasies keep escalating to a point where she has a dream featuring a sex scene between Grace and her husband. The plot thickens when Mary discovers the body of her friend Elaine, when she goes to visit her. She appears to have a pair of scissors in her neck. Mary becomes the main suspect for the Murder thanks to a significant amount of incriminating evidence, including a video showing her arriving at the victim’s house while covering her face with sunglasses and a headscarf. The movie takes a turn as Mary has to prove her innocence. She eventually discovers that Grace is the real murder, but not after a lot of drama and erotica.
This is one of the sex films on Netflix where you get to anticipate the ending as you wonder who will survive between the couple. You also get to enjoy some great sex scenes along the way. You can stream it on Netflix at any time.
The year I started masturbating
The title of this film says it all. This is a Swedish drama-comedy film with some of the most erotic scenes. The film follows the life of Hanna (played by Katia Winter) as she goes on a journey of self-discovery. The plot of the movie revolves around Hanna learning to pleasure herself as she also goes through a lot of non-sexual related growth.
The film starts with Hanna wanting another child before her biological clock runs out. However, her boyfriend dumps her unexpectedly and her world collapses. Hanna finds herself without a home, job, or family. But she is set on getting it all back. While in the process, Hanna begins to discover that she may have been after all the wrong things in life.
There are several self-love scenes in this movie, as you can tell from the title. However, the heroine also spends a few scenes experimenting with other characters in the bedroom. The romantic and comedic effect of this film makes it worth watching.
More the Merrier
This is a Spanish comedy film that focuses on different people as they go on countless sexual adventures. It is a love comedy stocked with several storylines. The film is set in a Spanish sex club known as Club Paradiso. It follows several individuals and couples as they embark on an evening of sexual escapades. Many of these characters get to discover more about themselves and their respective partners. This is one of the sexiest films on Netflix because it features a lot of nudity. There are also several scenes involving hook-ups. If you are a fan of entanglements, this is also the film for you. There are several plot lines to keep you locked into the film besides all the sexiness. The movie was released in 2021, but it is still one of the leading and most-watched sex films on Netflix.
Ride or Die
This is one of the Sexiest films on Netflix. It is based on a Japanese mange featuring the same title. The movie follows the journey of the star Kiko Mizuraha (who plays Rei). This is a doctor who is in love with her friend Nanae (played by Honami Sato). The twist in the movie is that Nanae is married to an abusive husband. Rei seduces and kills Nanae’s husband. They then embark on a trip to try and connect. Their connection is both erotic and emotional. There are several sexy moments in this film that will quench your itch for some erotica. The fact that the two stars in the movie are female makes it even sexier. The adventurous love scenes in the movie are the best things about the film.
Fall for Me
A German-language erotic thriller that’s been dominating Netflix’s global charts. Lilli visits her sister in Mallorca and becomes entangled in a dangerous romance with a mysterious club manager, while uncovering a web of deceit that could destroy the family. Think 365 Days meets The Tinder Swindler in European romance form.
Femme
A sharp British erotic thriller with a radical twist. It follows Jules, a young performer whose drag persona, Aphrodite, is more than just a stage, it’s a source of power until a violent attack pushes Jules into a dark spiral of erotic intensity and identity. Deeply affecting and visually compelling.
Lady Chatterley’s Lover
An intimate adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s classic. Emma Corrin shines as a conflicted aristocrat who embarks on a passionate and sensual affair with her gamekeeper. The English countryside never felt so untamed.
Mea Culpa
A steamy thriller that blends eroticism with suspense. Part of Netflix’s “Steamy Movies” lineup, it promises morally charged intrigue wrapped in bold, interpersonal drama.
Obsession
This four-episode British thriller is based on the novel Damage. A respected surgeon falls into a dangerously erotic affair with his son’s fiancée, setting off a domino effect of passion, obsession, and ruin.
365 Days
This list would not be complete without mentioning this film. Critics have referred to 365 Days as the Polish version of Fifty Shades of Grey, featuring two of the hottest actors you have ever seen. Since it was released in 2020, this film has not left Netflix’s sexiest films list. The film follows the story of Anna-Maria Sieklucka (Laura Biel), who is in an unhappy relationship, until a mob boss she meets in Sicily valley during a holiday gets entranced by her. He kidnaps her and gives her 365 days to fall for him. It is somewhat a “beauty and the beast” kind of tale that starts with Laura refusing the beast, who is the mob boss before falling madly in love with him. The sexual chemistry between the characters in this film is off the charts. Needless to say, this is what makes this film one of the best sex films on Netflix up to date.
Conclusion
Apart from the few films listed above, you should note that Netflix has quite a vast catalogue of sexy films. There are hundreds of options at your disposal. So, if sexy films are your thing, you are spoilt for options with Netflix.
ArtOrb and The Last Abstraction Gallery present Ephemeral Odyssey. The exhibition reflects on how presences, however fleeting and directionless, can cross immeasurable distances, inscribing delicate traces within the flow of time. It features works by 13 artists across installation, moving image, painting, photography and sound.
A life, however brief and unmoored, can still travel far enough to leave a trace upon the endless river of time. In this vision, flight becomes a way of imagining structure, understood here as a vessel that is ephemeral yet capable of preserving traces of will. If structure is a form that resists dissolution over time, then flight is its instantaneous counterpart: a way of momentarily constituting that form within a single breath, like the echo of a sound suspended in air, or light bending through a drop of water. Its course remains uncertain, yet every unfolding carries an internal field of force, leading to no geographic destination.
Installation view, Ephemeral Odyssey (video work)
As the French philosopher Gaston Bachelard observed, the momentary image can carry the weight of duration, capturing time for an instant within the curve of a gesture. Through their directionless persistence, these flights summon momentary constellations, shapes that, within the briefest of light-years, are capable of enclosing the question of existence. They serve no migratory function, engage no survival instinct, and approach a state of transparency; their meaning-structures remain unopened. Yet they continue to occur, fulfilling themselves under an unnamable necessity. It is precisely in their most useless moments that meaning reveals its most authentic contours.
Exhibition view, “Ephemeral Odyssey”
In Ephemeral Odyssey, 13 artists offer their own interpretations of the fleeting, presenting passages of experience through shifting textures, layers and contexts. Some works draw the viewer into a mesh of fine detail, others unfold as measured sequences fading into stillness, or as fragments to be pieced together in thought. Together, they form a shifting field where presences meet and touch.
As the viewer moves through the gallery, they pass from shadow into light, from silence into overlapping resonance, each transition a brief architecture that dissolves as the next takes shape.
Exhibition Details Ephemeral Odyssey was on view at The Last Abstraction Gallery, Ottakringer Str. 23, 1160 Vienna, Austria, from 28 to 30 August 2025.
A 401(k) plan is one of the most effective ways to save for retirement. It allows workers to put aside part of their paycheck before taxes are taken out. Many employers also offer matching contributions, which can help boost savings faster. These plans are built to support long-term growth through consistent investing. Understanding how they work can help you make smarter decisions about your future. With the right approach, you can maximize your 401k savings and feel more confident about your retirement path. Most people find that starting early and staying consistent makes a big difference over time.
Understanding the Basics of a 401(k)
A 401(k) plan is offered through your employer and allows you to invest a part of your income into a retirement account. You choose how much to contribute, and the money is usually taken out of your paycheck automatically. Contributions are often tax-deferred, which means you don’t pay taxes on that income until you withdraw it later. This helps reduce your taxable income while you are working. The money in your account can be invested in a variety of options, including mutual funds, stocks, or bonds. Over time, those investments have the chance to grow through compound interest.
Choosing Between Traditional and Roth Options
There are two main types of 401(k) accounts: traditional and Roth. With a traditional 401(k), your contributions are made before taxes, and you pay taxes when you withdraw the money in retirement. With a Roth 401(k), the money is taxed before it goes into your account, but you can take it out tax-free later. Your choice depends on how much you earn now and what you expect your tax situation to look like in the future. Some people split their savings between both types for flexibility. Each option offers benefits depending on your goals and timeline.
Employer Matching Contributions
One of the biggest advantages of a 401(k) plan is the chance to get matching contributions from your employer. This means your company puts in extra money based on how much you contribute. For example, your employer might match 50 percent of what you put in, up to a certain percentage of your salary. This is often seen as free money for retirement and is one of the strongest reasons to take part in the plan. Missing out on matching funds is like leaving money on the table. It is a simple way to grow your retirement savings without doing extra work.
Contribution Limits and Rules
Each year, the government sets limits on how much you can contribute to your 401(k) plan. These limits can change, so it is important to stay updated. If you are over the age of 50, you may also qualify for catch-up contributions, which allow you to save even more. There are also rules about when and how you can withdraw the money, often starting at age 59 and a half. Taking money out early may come with penalties, so it’s best to keep those savings in place until retirement. Planning ahead helps avoid surprises and keeps your savings on track.
Long-Term Growth and Monitoring
A 401(k) is built for the long term, which means you should keep an eye on your investments as time goes on. Markets change, and so do personal goals. Checking your account once or twice a year can help you see if your strategy is still working. Some people work with financial advisors to make sure their investment choices stay aligned with their needs. Adjusting your contributions or investment options as life changes can help you stay on target. A little attention now can lead to a more secure future later.
A 401(k) plan can be one of your strongest tools for building a retirement that feels safe and stable. From tax benefits to employer matches and long-term growth, it gives you several ways to grow your money. Learning how the plan works and taking full advantage of its features puts you in a better position to enjoy retirement. Consistency and smart decisions matter more than perfect timing. With a plan in place, you can move forward with more confidence. Every step you take now helps you build a future that works for you.
