Did I Tell You About... (12/17/20)
All the pop culture you need in your life this week.
You guys! It’s almost Christmas, and I am now just realizing I have consumed disturbingly little holiday-themed pop culture. Sure, I watched Happiest Season a few weeks ago, but… that’s pretty much it. What’s wrong with me?!
I plan on rectifying this problem ASAP, meaning that in all likelihood, I will listen to Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” on repeat and call it a day. (Don’t judge me.) But there’s plenty of other things I’ll be watching, reading, and listening to these days, as you’ll see in this week’s edition of Did I Tell You About…
I’m obsessed with: All the drama that’s been going on with rom-com queen Nancy Meyers. ICYMI, Vulture is holding a “Nancy Meyers Week” to honor the iconic filmmaker, and one story—in which the writer judged each of Meyers’ movies by their inclusion of wine and flannel, among factors—has caused quite a star. The director’s daughter Hallie took major issue with the piece, gaining support from stars like Reese Witherspoon and Mindy Kaling, while others have been arguing that it was meant to be complimentary, not reductive. I’m more on Vulture’s side here, but wherever you stand, isn’t it fun to talk about Nancy Meyers so much?
I’m still loving: Evermore, which has surprisingly taken over Folklore as my favorite Taylor release of 2020. In addition to listening to songs like “Champagne Problems” and “Tolerate It” on repeat, I’ve also been diving into some of the great pieces written on the album, like this Rolling Stone rundown of all of its influences and this Vulture ranking of all of Taylor Swift’s most devastating Track 5 songs. Evermore forever.
I’m watching: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. The drama, which stars Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman in his final role, has gotten amazing reviews and is expected to be a serious Oscar contender. I’m definitely checking this one out when it hits Netflix tomorrow.
I’m still thinking about: This essay by Heroes actor Leonard Roberts about the racism and other unfair treatment he experienced on the set of the ‘00s superhero drama. It’s an infuriating piece, and the half-assed apology that Roberts’ former co-star Ali Larter (who he alleges refused to do sex scenes with him because of his race) does nothing to make the situation any less horrific. Read the essay.
I’m finally checking out: The Flight Attendant on HBO Max. After weeks of hearing how good this thriller miniseries is, I’ve decided to give it a try. I’ll report back after I watch the first episode tonight, but considering how much people are freaking out about the show, I’m optimistic it’s gonna be goooood.
I’m laughing over: This pitch-perfect Vulture quiz that asks whether a quote is from Barack Obama’s memoir or Cazzie David’s. It’s harder than you’d think!
Come back next week for more pop culture recs and thoughts. And tell your friends to subscribe, please and thanks! :)
-Rachel