The Song of Achilles is a re-telling of the tale of Patroclus and Achilles, told from the perspective of Patroclus. Poetic in its simplicity, wrenching in its rendering, poignant in its observation, there is a reason this book is beloved. It’ll have you thinking for days afterwards.
Under the Whispering Door is another TJ Klune masterpiece. Following a miserly man after his death as he discovers love and family, it holds just as much humor, humanity, mundane heroism, and heartstring tugs as The House in the Cerulean Sea. It is pure warmth and comfort, and made me tear up.
9 Parts of Desire is a luminous one-woman show, interweaving stories of Iraqi women throughout history. It is clever in its writing, and masterful in its parallels; it is universal and specific and the most touching one-hander I’ve read in a long while. It is engrossing from its opening lines, and remains that way as the play turns from fluidity to panic to resignation and power. I’d love to see it live.
Mass Effect is an illustration of why video games should be considered art. Jay and I completed the third in the trilogy two months ago, and the story remains in my mind. Virtuosic in its world-building, replete with well-crafted, compelling, immediately endearing characters, and brimming with dialogue grounded and touching and whole, the immersion in this leaves you breathless. It is a stunning piece of cinema, even if it has a rough ending.
Bella Donna is a Stevie Nicks beauty that I’ve had on repeat for quite some time. Filled with her iconic evocation, celestial musings, and poetic lyrics, it is the witchy, emotional inner life I’ve needed for the past few months. My favorites are “Bella Donna,” “After the Glitter Fades,” and, of course, “Leather and Lace.”
Dear Multi-Hyphenate is a podcast every creative, no matter the medium, needs to hear. Hosted by Michael Kushner, its interviews with industry legends and up-and-comers alike offer introspection, inspiration, wisdom, and drive. The seriousness is balanced with friendly banter and hilarity, and I’ve loved listening to these as I get ready in the morning or do some admin work.
Broey Deschanel is a fabulous film analysis channel with a hysterical name. Maia, a graduate film student, crafts phenomenal video essays surrounding the art of filmmaking and its presentation. She is well-researched and makes one think, her scripts well-written with solemnity, query, and humor. My favorites of hers so far have been on Killing Eve, The Portrait of a Lady on Fire, and Licorice Pizza.
film fatales is another fantastic film analysis channel. Ellen is a film student, primarily focused on the role of gender within film. Her video essays are well-presented, engaging and inclusive and knowledgeable. My current favorites of hers are on the dehumanization of the female monster in horror and the demonization of femininity within teen films.
*Images not my own*