Day: January 23, 2025

In the intriguing production “By Design,” actress Juliette Lewis steps into an unconventional role – a chair. Written by Amanda Kramer, who has transitioned from playwriting to filmmaking, this Sundance Film Festival offering poses the thought-provoking question: What occurs when a woman discovers that society finds her more appealing as an inanimate object?

Kramer’s past works, “Ladyworld” and “Please Baby Please,” have showcased her as a daring visionary with a rebellious spirit, disregarding traditional storytelling norms. If Kramer were a chair, she would don a cover of striking crystals. This film demands viewers to leave their adherence to reality behind. The cast includes Melanie Griffith, Samantha Mathis, and Udo Kier, but it’s the performance of Mamoudou Athie as a man who gains possession (and sits) on Lewis’ chair that has me most intrigued. Athie is known for his intense dedication as an actor, and this unconventional film promises to test the limits of his talent. – Amy Nicholson

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve always been intrigued by the ongoing debate about the supposed ‘bug’ in the format of a beloved TV show we both enjoy. Since its debut seasons, this theory has doggedly followed the series like an unwanted glitch in a game. However, Wednesday night’s episode 10 (January 22) has effectively silenced that argument for good.

The show, set to launch on February 5th, continues where the popular sitcom Motherland left off. It was created by the talented team consisting of Sharon Horgan, Holly Walsh, and Helen Serafinowicz.

2025’s award season landscape seems to be shaping up as a more competitive and unpredictable field, with the once-dominant “Oppenheimer” now facing stiff competition. While movies like “Wicked”, “Emilia Pérez”, and “Conclave” have been considered frontrunners, there’s growing debate about the Oscar-worthiness of a blockbuster film such as “Wicked” and concerns surrounding representation in “Emilia Pérez”, particularly with regards to trans and Mexican characters. The lengthy runtime of “The Brutalist” (over 3.5 hours) may be a deterrent for some voters, while the Golden Globe-winning performances of Fernanda Torres and Demi Moore could potentially translate into Oscar nominations for both actresses. (Interestingly enough, they did indeed!)

The aftermath of the wildfires and the local community’s resilience are expected to shape the atmosphere for an upcoming event. This event is scheduled to take place in early March and will be presided over by popular comedian and TV host, Conan O’ Brien.

At a particularly challenging time, an unusual script landed on her desk. Reflecting back, it felt as if the universe was whispering to her, “You have more to accomplish.

As a devoted admirer, I find myself compelled to share a somber update about an exceptional musician. Born on December 17, this extraordinary individual celebrated his 8th year among us in 2022. Regrettably, he was diagnosed with lung cancer that same year. During the final chapters of his life, he received hospice care. It is with a heavy heart that I relay this news.

According to Variety’s report, the special features on the home release of the musical adaptation are filled with exclusive insights from Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and director Jon M Chu, who reveal behind-the-scenes tidbits about the making of Wicked.