AIR | BEEF | SHOWING UP
Pop Culture Weekly Round-Up 07/04/2023
Hello, everyone It is Friday again and I'm back to give you some Pop Culture recommendations for your weekend. In this week’s newsletter, I talk about the amazing new Netflix series BEEF. I also share my thoughts on two new films, The very entertaining AIR, and the funny and sweet SHOWING UP. And as always there is a playlist with five songs I enjoyed during the week.
QUICK THOUGHTS
AIR is a compelling sports drama from award-winning director Ben Affleck that delves into the game-changing partnership between NBA legend Michael Jordan and Nike's basketball division that revolutionized contemporary culture with the Air Jordan brand. Affleck's heartwarming and inspiring story offers a unique look into Jordan's journey to becoming one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and how an unconventional team took a career-defining gamble that changed the world of sports forever. The film's satirical take on corporate unscrupulousness adds an extra layer to what is ultimately a crowd-pleasing feature. First-time screenplay writer Alex Convery puts forth a good script that balances the entertaining storyline with relatable characters, including a determined mother who values her son's immense talent. Every actor in the cast brings their A-game, with the true protagonists of the story revolving around Jordan in a thoroughly enjoyable fashion. As a period sport and workplace comedy, AIR succeeds due to the masterful direction of Ben Affleck, an irresistible score filled with immortal '80s hits, and a magnificent set design and wardrobe that transports viewers back to a bygone era. This film is undoubtedly another win for Affleck as a director and will captivate audiences of all ages with its feel-good message and engaging storytelling.
BEEF is an incredible Netflix series that skillfully tackles the complexities of life with a fresh perspective through a darkly funny road rage storyline. The show's excellent script cleverly weaves together intricate stories that are both complex but also easy to follow, enhanced by powerful performances from its two stars, Ali Wong as Amy and Steven Yeun as Danny. The cinematography is also stunning, revealing that this is far from just another show on a streaming platform. The series doesn't shy away from difficult themes, such as guilt, unhappiness, family obligations, and class differences. It also offers a unique and poignant perspective on the Asian American experience. The brilliant performances by Wong and Yeun, along with the award-worthy cinematography and direction, make this series truly unforgettable. It's been a while since Netflix delivered a show this entertaining, engrossing, intelligent, and unpredictable. BEEF is absolutely sure to shock and captivate any viewer with its provocative exploration of these life-altering themes. Don't miss out on this must-watch series, which is bound to leave you absolutely amazed!
SHOWING UP is a beautiful film following an artist on the cusp of a career-defining exhibition as she navigates the chaos of life and finds inspiration in unexpected places. The story is not grandiose, but director Kelly Reichardt has a unique ability to capture the essence of everyday life and imbue it with meaning. The movie is set in Portland and explores the nuances of creating art, dealing with family, landlords, and the journey to self-discovery. The film is an unassuming portrayal of the artistic process and the frustrations that come with it. Reichardt showcases her deep insight into the art world and how artists are compelled to put their self-expression at the forefront of their lives. Michelle Williams gives an incredible performance that provides genuine moments of laughter throughout the film. SHOWING UP is not a big-budget blockbuster, but in its simplicity lies its humanity. It is a heartwarming work of art that reminds us that inspiration and brilliance can come from the most mundane of experiences. I highly recommend this movie to anyone seeking a touching tale of the artistic journey.
TOP 5 SONGS
These were the 5 songs on heavy rotation in my house last week. You can listen to them on Spotify and YouTube.
I've been conflicted about seeing "Air." It looks great, but I also grew up there, and don't want to spend 2 hours calling out any dramatic licenses the movie takes.