Our Current Media Obsessions: A Deep Dive

Hey everyone, welcome to a deeper dive into the media we've been consuming and obsessing over lately! As you know, on this week's podcast episode, Welcome to Our Media Edit, we talked about the shows, books, and movies that have been living rent-free in our brains. This blog post expands on those discussions, providing more insights and details about what we're loving and why. Get ready to explore the intriguing plot of 'The Substance' to the nostalgic comfort of 'Twilight,' and everything in between. Let's jump in!

TV Shows We're Hooked On

Let's start with the small screen. Television has been a constant companion, offering both escapism and thought-provoking narratives. Here are some of the shows that have captured our attention:

White Lotus

First up is "White Lotus." What an experience! This show is a masterclass in satire and social commentary. Each season, set in a different luxurious White Lotus resort, introduces a new cast of characters grappling with their own personal dramas against the backdrop of wealth and privilege. The writing is sharp, the performances are stellar, and the scenery is stunning. What really stands out is its ability to make you laugh and cringe simultaneously, forcing you to confront uncomfortable truths about class, race, and human nature. The unexpected twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat, making it a truly addictive watch. We love how it makes us think about the complexities of human relationships and the impact of wealth on our behaviors.

Younger

"Younger" is such a fun and feel-good show. This series follows Liza Miller, a 40-something woman who pretends to be 26 to re-enter the workforce. It's a lighthearted look at ageism, ambition, and the challenges of reinventing yourself. While the premise might seem a bit far-fetched, the show is incredibly charming, thanks to its witty writing and engaging characters. We're drawn to Liza's journey of self-discovery and her relationships with her younger colleagues and friends. It's a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your dreams and that age is just a number. If you're looking for something that will make you laugh and warm your heart, "Younger" is a perfect choice. And honestly, who doesn't love a good romantic comedy?

Friends and Neighbors

"Friends and Neighbors" is a hidden gem that we recently stumbled upon. This show explores the dynamics of two couples who are, well, friends and neighbors. What makes this show so compelling is its raw and honest portrayal of marriage, friendship, and infidelity. The characters are complex and flawed, and their relationships are messy and complicated. It's a show that isn't afraid to tackle difficult topics, such as communication breakdowns, sexual desire, and the challenges of maintaining intimacy over time. "Friends and Neighbors" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant series that will leave you questioning your own relationships and choices.

Sex/Life

"Sex/Life" is a show that definitely sparked some conversation. This series explores the themes of female desire, motherhood, and the search for fulfillment. It follows Billie Connelly, a suburban housewife who finds herself torn between her responsible husband and her passionate ex-boyfriend. While the show has its fair share of steamy scenes, it also delves into the complexities of female identity and the challenges of balancing personal desires with societal expectations. We appreciate the show's willingness to explore these themes, even if it's not always handled perfectly. "Sex/Life" is a provocative and engaging series that will leave you thinking about the choices we make and the paths we choose.

Dying for Sex Podcast/Show

Switching gears to a docuseries, "Dying for Sex" is a heartbreaking yet inspiring story about friendship and resilience. This show follows two best friends, one of whom is diagnosed with terminal cancer. In the face of her diagnosis, they embark on a series of adventures to explore their sexuality and live life to the fullest. It's an emotional and powerful series that celebrates the beauty of life and the importance of human connection. "Dying for Sex" is a reminder to cherish every moment and to embrace our desires, even in the face of adversity.

We Were Liars

"We Were Liars" is based on the popular YA novel of the same name. We were hooked on this show about a wealthy family with a dark summer secret. What makes this show so compelling is its atmospheric setting, its intriguing characters, and its shocking twists. The story unfolds slowly, revealing pieces of the puzzle one at a time. The suspense builds, and the resolution is ultimately devastating. "We Were Liars" is a captivating and thought-provoking series that will stay with you long after you finish watching.

Books That Have Captured Our Attention

Now, let's turn the page to the books that have been keeping us up at night:

All Fours

"All Fours" by Miranda July is a novel that defies easy categorization. It's quirky, experimental, and deeply personal. The story follows a middle-aged woman who abruptly leaves her life behind and embarks on a road trip across the country. Along the way, she encounters a series of eccentric characters and confronts her own desires and insecurities. What we love about "All Fours" is its unique voice and its willingness to take risks. July's writing is both funny and poignant, and she has a knack for capturing the absurdity of modern life. This book is not for everyone, but if you're looking for something different and thought-provoking, "All Fours" is worth a read.

Scythe

"Scythe" by Neal Shusterman is a young adult dystopian novel that explores the themes of mortality, morality, and power. In a future where death has been conquered, Scythes are tasked with controlling the population by gleaning (killing) people. What makes "Scythe" so compelling is its complex world-building, its thought-provoking questions, and its engaging characters. The story is full of twists and turns, and the ending is both satisfying and unsettling. "Scythe" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dystopian fiction or philosophical explorations of life and death.

Brooke Shields is Not Allowed to Get Old

"Brooke Shields is Not Allowed to Get Old" is a memoir that offers a candid and insightful look at the challenges of aging in the public eye. Shields reflects on her experiences as a child star, a model, and an actress, and she shares her thoughts on beauty, body image, and the pressure to stay young. What we appreciate about this book is Shields' honesty and vulnerability. She doesn't shy away from discussing her insecurities and her struggles with self-acceptance. This memoir is a reminder that aging is a natural process and that true beauty comes from within.

The Great Alone

"The Great Alone" by Kristin Hannah is a historical fiction novel set in Alaska in the 1970s. The story follows a family who moves to the Alaskan wilderness in search of a fresh start. However, their new life is fraught with challenges, including harsh weather, isolation, and a volatile relationship between the parents. What makes "The Great Alone" so captivating is its vivid descriptions of the Alaskan landscape, its compelling characters, and its exploration of themes such as family, survival, and resilience. This book is a gripping and emotional read that will stay with you long after you finish it.

Pretty Girls

"Pretty Girls" by Karin Slaughter is a dark and suspenseful thriller that explores the themes of family secrets, violence, and redemption. The story follows two sisters who are forced to confront the past when their father is murdered. As they investigate his death, they uncover a web of lies and shocking truths. What makes "Pretty Girls" so compelling is its fast-paced plot, its complex characters, and its unflinching portrayal of violence. This book is not for the faint of heart, but if you're a fan of thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat, "Pretty Girls" is a must-read.

Movies We Can't Stop Thinking About

Finally, let's dim the lights and talk about the movies that have left a lasting impression:

Twilight

"Twilight" is a nostalgic comfort blanket. Love it or hate it, this movie defined a generation. Revisiting it recently reminded us of the appeal of young love, supernatural creatures, and dramatic soundtracks. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, "Twilight" holds a special place in our hearts as a reminder of our teenage years and the power of fandom.

The Substance

"The Substance" is a film that we're still processing. This body horror film is a wild ride that explores themes of beauty, aging, and identity. It's visually stunning, disturbing, and thought-provoking. We appreciate the film's willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventional notions of beauty. However, it's not for the faint of heart. "The Substance" is a film that will stay with you long after you leave the theater, prompting you to question your own values and beliefs.

Coda

"Coda" is a heartwarming and uplifting film about a young woman who is the only hearing member of her deaf family. As she navigates her dreams of becoming a singer, she must also balance her responsibilities to her family. "Coda" is a beautiful and moving story about family, identity, and the power of music. It's a film that will leave you feeling inspired and hopeful.

A Simple Favor

"A Simple Favor" is a stylish and suspenseful thriller with a dark sense of humor. The film follows a mommy vlogger who becomes obsessed with finding out what happened to her mysterious and glamorous friend. "A Simple Favor" is a fun and entertaining ride with plenty of twists and turns.

Anora

"Anora" is a romantic drama about a sex worker in New York City who falls in love with the son of a Russian oligarch. The film explores themes of love, class, and identity. "Anora" is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that will leave you thinking about the complexities of human relationships.

Baby Girl

This film, which we saw at Sundance, tells the story of a mother-daughter relationship that is toxic and fascinating. As the daughter begins to find her own identity, the mother struggles with her daughter's growth and independence.

The Idea of You

"The Idea of You" is a romantic comedy about a 40-year-old single mom who falls in love with a 24-year-old pop star. The film explores themes of ageism, female desire, and the challenges of dating in the public eye. "The Idea of You" is a charming and entertaining film that will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired.

What We Love, What Surprised Us, and What We Didn't Like

Let's reflect on what stood out about these media choices:

• What We Loved: We loved the diversity of genres and themes that these shows, books, and movies explored. From thought-provoking social commentary to heartwarming stories of love and resilience, there was something for everyone. We also appreciated the strong female characters and the willingness to tackle difficult topics.
• What Surprised Us: We were surprised by how much we enjoyed revisiting "Twilight." It reminded us of the power of nostalgia and the importance of embracing our guilty pleasures. We were also surprised by the intensity and darkness of "The Substance." It was a film that challenged us and made us think about our own values.
• What We Didn't Like: While we enjoyed most of the media we consumed, there were a few things that didn't quite resonate. Some of the plotlines felt predictable, and some of the characters were underdeveloped. However, even in the media we didn't love, we were able to find something of value.

What These Stories Are Teaching Us About Ourselves

Beyond entertainment, these stories offered valuable insights into our own lives:

These stories taught us about the importance of self-acceptance, the power of human connection, and the need to challenge societal norms. They reminded us that it's okay to embrace our desires, to question our beliefs, and to live life on our own terms. They also showed us the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding. By stepping into the shoes of these characters, we were able to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Conclusion: Recommendations for Your Next Obsession

So, there you have it – a deep dive into our current media obsessions! We hope this blog post has given you some inspiration for your next binge-watching session or reading adventure. Remember to check out our related podcast episode, Welcome to Our Media Edit, for even more insights and recommendations. Whether you're looking for a lighthearted comedy, a thought-provoking drama, or a thrilling mystery, we're confident that you'll find something to love. Happy consuming!