Media Log
Listening.
Watching.
Reading.
Film
Nightbitch
Terrible title! Do better! But the movie itself isn't bad. While somewhat predictable I'm not sure I've seen such a raw depiction of motherhood.
Recommend.
Film
A Real Pain
Despite the Oscar win and undeniable chemistry from the casting, I was slightly underwhelmed (always a risk when approaching a film with anticipation). Still worthwhile, in a way that's slightly reminiscent of "Before Sunset."
TV Series
Apple Cider Vinegar
When it comes to true crime I'm all about scammers (abnormal psychology is fascinating) but why are all the biopics of successful women about pathological liars who get exposed as criminals?
Rock Song
Wish I Knew You When I Was Young
THE REVIVALISTS
Trying to remember to listen to more feel good music, while still shaking off some Covid blues.
2025: February
Documentary
Catching Fire: The Story of Anita Pallenberg
What if we gave all addicts the same empathy and grace we give famous artists?
Electronic / Dance
Off With Her Head
BANKS
Not sure if the genre pivot is authentic, a response to Eilish, or a need to stay relevant, or all of the above. Regardless of the reasons, I'm digging it.
Textbook
Organization Culture and Leadership
EDGAR H. SCHEIN
I've almost finished a certificate in OD (Organization Design and Development) and I have affinity for the organizational culture concepts. Understanding and belonging despite differences is where solutions lie.
Animated Film
Flow
This is beautiful. Created with open source software, the up-close 'pixelly' aspect was noticeable at times, but it's still visually stunning with masterful movement and effective emotion.
2025: March
News Media
2024 USA Presidential Election
I resisted my urge to stick my head under the covers, and was dismayed at the rapid results. It's impossible not to feel the gravity of this decision.
Documentary
Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words
I don't know much about Megan or her music, but this is another example of a woman being crucified by the media. At least the courts got it right this time.
Film
Challengers
A classic love triangle twisted with a tennis obsession. The characters are flat for and it's B-movie material but I enjoyed it like I enjoy popcorn. No substance but binge-worthy.
Film
Mother’s Instinct
A psychological thriller spurred by the worst of all losses. Forgettable, but Jessica Chastain is always worth watching.
2024: November
Textbook
Thinking in Systems
Leverage Points! Feedback Loops! This is one of my OD textbooks but my cohort enjoyed it so much most of us bought a hard copy.
Film
Dumb Money
A nerdy numbers-based story told in an accessible and light-hearted way. Not quite Moneyball or The Big Short, but a decent take on one of the few highlights during lockdown.
Podcast
Radiolab: Why Don't Sex Scandals Matter Anymore?
Documentary Series
Pop Star Academy: Katsye
I. Had. Absolutely. No. Idea. Sick dance moves? Child labor? Psychological torture on live tv? All a surprise for me as I learned about K-Pop.
2024: October
Podcast
Infamous: How Ethical is Love is Blind?
Not very. Are we surprised?
Downtempo EDM Music
Maribou State
Nice to rediscover this band for great background vibes when it’s time to get shit done.
Media Type
Selling Sunset
I have no defense for this. Eye candy and guilty pleasure.
Film
Demolition
Followed the cliche formula of an unlikely friendship growing out of grief, but the cast and the soundtrack lifted it beyond ordinary. Glad I finally checked it off the watchlist.
2024: September
Podcast
Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend
Since highschool, Conan has provided me with much needed brevity in hard times. His podcast is no different but he manages to add substance to his recipe.
Hip-Hop
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
That thing, that thing, that thing.
I still know every word and it's still a perfect album. ♫♪
Stand-Up Comedy
JJ Barrows: Doodle All Day
A female comedian I'd never heard of but gave a shot. As per tradition, I enjoyed it and then forgot about it.
Media Type
Alanis: Always Too Hot
My absolute favourite Canadian thing to show Americans; because it it blows their minds! Yes, Alanis was a pop star before she became Alanis Morissette.
2024: August
Musician
Teddy Swims
Like an episode of The Voice brought to life, his voice is on par with some of the best blues singers.
Stand-Up Comedy
Hannah Berner: We Ride at Dawn
Never heard of her. Watched it while drawing. Enjoyed it. Never to be thought of again.
Musician
Chet Faker
I love seeing concerts of musicians I've never heard of and discovering I've been missing out for years. Thanks Rifflandia.
Skit Comedy
SNL: Kristen Wiig
Never forgettable. Shines in all she does. Kristen is the queen.
2024: July
Film
A Simple Favor
A fun romp with great chemistry. Recommended for repeat viewing when you have a nasty fever and can't sleep. 🔥
Podcast
Scamanda
You can't deny it, sociopaths are fascinating. With behaviour far more obscene than Anna Delvey, this is proof that some people have no conscience.
Reality TV
Vanderpump Rules
I went so long not knowing what a "Vanderpump" was, and then I did and I'll never look at myself the same way again. It really is the perfect reality show. (blushes with shame)
Media Type
Dancing for the Devil: The 7m Tik Tok Cult
A dance documentary AND a cult documentary fuelled by modern media. Obviously, I'm watching it. B+
2024: June
Novel
I can tell you about all the memoirs, but something about a novel, I often almost immediately forget what it was about. So... no comment?
The Bee Sting
Film
A quiet but complex story about loss, doubt, risk, and friendship. The critics didn't love it, but there was a warm heart in my house.
Good Grief
TV Series
My partner and I split up halfway through finishing the second to last season of Succession. I finally dried my tears and finished watching, they I found myself crying again. Damn you, Roman!
(psst. always finish your show BEFORE breaking up)
Succession
Media Type
A rare Canadian story on Hulu.
It's very strange watching a disturbing tragedy from your childhood, that takes place in the city you currently live, but feels like it could have taken place in your hometown.
Under the Bridge
2024: May
Non-Fiction Book
Pivot
Oh, how I wish I'd read this sooner! Basically instead ofputting the weight of EVERYTHING on your life decisions, just ask "what's next?"
Game Show
Celebrity Jeopardy
Regular Jeopardy makes me feel super dumb. Celebrity Jeopardy makes me feel super smart.
Documentary
Brandy Hellville
Terrible name but another solid reminder of the damage fast fashion is doing to our environment.
TV Series
The Voice
I’m a sucker for this show despite the hokiness. It’s always positive, has amazing singers, and is the perfect background show.
2024: April
Documentary Series
Welcome to Wrexham
I never thought I would find myself yelling at the TV because 'Sportsball.' But here we are.
Award Show
The Ocars
The first time I’ve watched in years. The first time ever I've dressed up and watched in the theatre with friends. Was a really good time!
TV Series
Expats
I loved it! Complex exploration of being the other, privileged or not. Highly recommend.
Reality TV
Catfish
Guilty pleasure formula-driven reality TV, but also an interesting look into the psychology of America’s less visited corners. Another perfect background show.
2024: March
TV Series
Lucky Hank
Bob Odenkirk's is perfectly cast in this scathing and humorous review of academia. Add a dose of grief for good measure.
Documentary Series
Dance Life
It's hard to find a dance documentary I haven't seen. Dance Life highlights a diverse set of stars at the top Aussie school. Truly insane street style!
Documentary Series
Working: What We Do All Day
An examination of the levels of work in America. While it could use more depth, it introduced me to the concept of "knowledge workers" and provoked further reflection on my privilege.
TV Series
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
The perfect couples show. The perfect mix of action, comedy and love story. Exceeds the original movie by far.
2024: February
Podcast
Heavyweight
Binged the final stories from this humorous cross-border gem about being brave enough to face the past for answers. Unfortunately, Spotify ended it but there are 58 episodes waiting for you.
Film
The Place Beyond the Pines
I don't know how I missed this! A sad and slow Ryan Gosling indie-vibe film from 2012.
Heart-wrenching and traumatic.
Highly recommend.
Novel
The Candy House
A slightly futuristic read in capsule chapters, with a look at tech and humanity. Unfortunately, it has too many characters to keep the connections straight.
TV Series
Forever
A slower version of The Good Place, while contemplating what makes a long-term relationships lasting and worthwhile.
2024: January
Documentary Series
Social Studies
A must watch. Beyond the expected issues with social media, the nonchalance of these kids towards truly traumatic issues is beyond alarming.
Documentary
Martha
A solid character study of a unique business mind. She could use a dose of kindness and accountability, but I do believe her jail time was the result of patriarchal power trip.
Film
Anatomy of a Fall
Very french. Very worthwhile. We don't offer this degree of nuance or subtle examination in North American film. But does France not have rules against leading the witness?
Documentary
Amy
Sad. Sad. Sad. I know my desire to watch is part of the problem, but media really needs to stop ripping people apart when they are suffering.
2024: December
Memoir
Grief is for People
A disarming, witty, authentic, and humorous true story acknowledging the less-spoken and less-sensical aspects of grief. If you've ever unexpectedly lost someone or something this will make you feel less alone.
Film
Alice, Darling
Initially, my take was "a solid and subtle attempt that didn't quite make it home", then I found myself still thinking about this film days later. Abuse comes in many shades...
TV Series
No Good Deed
The chemistry between Kudrow and Romano rivals any real-life marriage, and it was darker and funnier than "Only Murders in the Building." I began to lose interest towards the end, but still recommend.
Pop Album
Midnights
TAYLOR SWIFT
I succumbed to listening to a whole album while trying to understand the hype. While I admit to occasionally having Anti-Hero on repeat, I have to apologize to the Swifties: I still don't get it.