'Alien: Earth' delivers scares and thrills as it considers the evolution of humanity Noah Hawley's TV prequel to the original Alien film feature first-class action and visuals — and a stunning season finale that provides both closure and exciting possibilities for the future. David Bianculli
Critics said 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' would flop. They underestimated Turtle Power After 35 years, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is back in theaters. The film's director looks back on the obstacles to making it in the first place. Alan Chazaro
Why a good pep talk doesn't always need to include advice Need to say a few words of encouragement? The authors of the book Tiny Pep Talks explain how to deliver a message that motivates and inspires — whether it's for a loved one or for yourself. Malaka Gharib
The strange-but-true origin story of the humble potato Scientists have long wondered about how the potato's genetic lineage came to be. Now they know: The plants are a cross between tomatoes and a plant known as Etuberosum. Ari Daniel
White House calls for a 'comprehensive review' of eight Smithsonian museums The effort is focused on bringing the organization in line with President Trump's cultural directives ahead of the country's 250th anniversary celebrations. Chloe Veltman
Remembering the Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest — a contest for bad writing For four decades, an English professor at San Jose State University has run a fiction contest for a single opening sentence to "the worst of all possible novels." He has decided to retire the contest. Deena Prichep
'Alien: Earth' is one of the best shows so far this year The TV prequel to the Alien movies calls back to the best elements of those original films — including questions about corporate exploitation and technological advancements. Eric Deggans
A big break after age 40 is possible. Just ask Jeff Hiller of 'Somebody Somewhere' Hiller spent years scraping by in Hollywood by taking on various small roles. Then he landed the role of Joel on Somebody Somewhere and everything changed. His new memoir is Actress of a Certain Age. Terry Gross
Taylor Swift announces her next era: 'The Life of a Showgirl' After cryptic Instagram posts and a surprise countdown clock, Swift announced early Tuesday that her new album will be called The Life of a Showgirl. The cover art and release date remain a mystery. Rachel Treisman
These 'Blondes' are turning 100, and they're still a lot of fun Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is about two flappers on the prowl for sugar daddies. First published in 1925, Anita Loos' cheeky comic novel has now been reissued in paperback. Maureen Corrigan
