BOOK

I’ve been thinking a lot about this book in quarantine. Anna Fox lives alone in a New York City home, unable to venture outside. She spends her day drinking wine (same), watching old movies (same), recalling happier times (same), and spying on her neighbors (this might be illegal but same). When the Russells move into the house across from her, she witnesses something she shouldn’t and her world begins to crumble. Nothing is what it seems and this book will keep you guessing. This movie starring Amy Adams will be released hopefully in May.

FILMS

Classic: The Godfather (Amazon)

I’m nervous just writing this description because I know it will not do this classic justice. From the incredible characters and cast to the unforgettable soundtrack and cinematography, this film changed cinema as we know it. If you haven’t seen it in a while or even if you have, re-live the story of the infamous Corleone New York crime family. I promise you’ll get something new out of it. And remember, always, always take the cannoli.

Comedy: Guess Who (Netflix)

You know what this movie was? A cultural reset. A remake of the 1967 classic Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, this gender swapped version is still relevant 15 years later. Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher are at war from the second he steps out of the taxi with Zoe Saldana, which makes their heart to heart at the end all the more endearing. They do a great job of acknowledging racial tensions and building bridges as well as making you laugh the entire time. With immense respect, Bernie is also part of the reason I’m terrified of bringing white men home to meet my parents.

Romance: The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Netflix)

I’d forgotten how much I loved this film (and book!) until Netflix dropped it last week. This coming-of-age story is timeless, heartfelt, and sincere; tackling some serious issues (TW: depression, suicide, abuse) without becoming preachy or lachrymose. The cast is incredible: Paul Rudd! Mae Whitman! Cousin Greg?!? And plus, is there anything more iconic than Sam, Patrick, and Charlie dancing to “Come On Eileen” at the homecoming dance? Stephen Chbosky, both the author and writer/director, managed an impossible feat: a successful film adaptation of a beloved book.

Animation: Onward (Disney+)

Because it’s Pixar, I obviously go along for the ride but by the end of the movie I realize I’ve been crying for the last 15 minutes. Frozen’s fine, but I have an older brother so this movie hits deep for me. Tom Holland voices a boy who’s never met his father. On his birthday, his mother gifts him with magic powers left for him by his dad, who died of cancer when his brother, voiced by Chris Pratt, was much younger. Chris and Tom go on a quest to bring their dad back to life for a day so Tom can finally meet him. When his chance is ruined, he realizes his older brother’s the best father figure he could’ve grown up with instead.

TV SERIES

Nancy Drew (The CW)

I was actively following the development of this beloved IP for YEARS. No seriously, this adaptation has been in the works since 2015. And yet, when it actually aired, I never watched it. BIG MISTAKE. I finally binged the 16 episodes that are currently out over the weekend. The books are technically for middle schoolers; it’d be easy to adapt the books into something more palatable for children (please see the 1977 ABC series). Thankfully, this adaptation remains true to the tone of the novels, while giving the IP a 21st century update. And good news, the series comes back from a hiatus on Thursday.

The Magicians (Netflix, Syfy)

I’ve been watching this show since college, and when it aired its final episode last week I was incredibly upset. It is one of the few shows that has left me wanting more. I love this cast so much; their acting expressed exactly how I’ve felt in situations with love and loss. Many real tears have been cried so if you’re looking for some new characters to latch onto, I heavily recommend. This ensemble navigates their magical powers and relationships upon discovering the magical world they read about as children is not only real, but poses dangers to humanity. Also, it’s super fun and has lots of dark comedy!

PODCASTS

Twilight in Quarantine

I’ve been living in my childhood bedroom for now over three weeks and can say I’ve successfully reverted into my high school self. Along with my zits, frizzy hair, and terrible fashion sense, I’ve also started listening to a Twilight podcast. Uploaded Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the hosts go chapter-by-chapter giving advice to both the characters and Stephanie Meyer. The perfect podcast if you need a laugh (which, let’s face it – we all do).

MUSIC

girls tour (Jacqueline)

Recently revisited this playlist during my afternoon quarantine drives. Didn’t know it then but my college friends and I perfected it driving around campus during our study breaks.

those cunning folk use any means to achieve their ends (Madison – shocker!)

Slytherin vibes for social isolation.

Ultimate faves (Sohany)

If you’ve ever asked me what my favorite song is, chances are I’ve tried to say all of these titles at once.