Entertainment

What We’re...

Fall is a perfect time to cozy up with a blanket and a book, or hibernate while binging on Netflix and pots of homemade chili. If you’re looking to get cozy and practice some self-care this season, be sure to check out some of these recent releases.

...Reading

The Two Lives of Sara — One of the most compelling releases this season, The Two Lives of Sara is historical fiction set against the backdrop of civil rightsera Memphis. On the surface, the book presents itself as a love story, as the reader gets to enjoy watching the very pregnant Sara fall in love with Jonah, a handsome teacher. But the novel delves deeper into issues of politics, education, and segregation as the two begin working together to fight for racial equality.

Demon Copperhead — Fans of Kingsolver have anxiously awaited her latest release, and now it is here. Demon Copperhead begs the question: What if David Copperfield had been born in Appalachia? Like Dickens’ protagonist, Kingsolver’s must overcome various life hurdles to become himself. It provides an interesting take on both a classic piece of literature and an oft-ignored part of the American landscape.

...Listening To

Bigger. Messier. — Longtime Hollywood composer Danny Elfman’s 2020 release Big Mess forced the music world to look at him differently. His subsequent album, Bigger. Messier., is an exciting follow up that no one should miss out on. The goth-infused single In Time is a display of how Elfman’s cinematic storytelling skills can be brought into the studio as a way of drawing listeners into his world.

11:11 — If you’re looking for something a little more accessible, Regina Spektor’s recent release will undoubtedly fill that void. Her quirky, yet bittersweet lyrics and melodic voice will charm listeners and inevitably infuse your afternoon with feelings of hope and longing.

...Watching

Blonde — Streaming on Netflix September 23 — While many films have been released that chronicle the life of actress Marilyn Monroe, this one looks to be particularly compelling in part due to the reported NC-17 rating. Based on the Joyce Carol Oates book by the same name, Blonde stars the gorgeous Ana de Armas (The Gray Man) as Monroe, and includes Adrien Brody (The Pianist) and Bobby Cannavale (The Station Agent) among others.

Alaska Daily — ABC Thursdays at 10 — Oscar winner Hilary Swank is coming to television as an investigative journalist trying to reinvent herself at a small newspaper in Anchorage, Alaska. Previews of this show look sleek and exciting, and Swank is bringing big star power to the small screen.

Monarch — FOX Tuesdays at 9 — Fans of the ABC/CMT show Nashville (ran from 2012-2018) will find a lot to love in Monarch, a new FOX drama that follows a country music family. This one brings together the likes of the ever-talented Susan Sarandon and real-life country music star Trace Adkins for what is sure to be a dramatic ride.

By Vanessa Hutchison

Fall 2022 / TodaysTransitions.com