If there are two things I like, they're having an excuse to stay home and getting new music from my favorite artists, so this last week has been an interesting one, to say the least. It's been two years since Niall Horan's debut album, Flicker, and now he's back and better than ever with his sophomore album, Heartbreak Weather. This album is honestly nothing but bops, and it was so thoughtful of Niall to release it during these trying times. I've had these songs on repeat since the album dropped one week ago, so here are my track-by-reactions to follow as you listen. PSA: My favorites are marked with an asterisk because obviously you want my opinion if you're reading this: 1. "Heartbreak Weather"*
2. "Black And White"*
3. "Dear Patience"
4. "Bend The Rules"
5. "Small Talk"
6. "Nice To Meet Ya"
7. "Put A Little Love On Me"
8. "Arms Of A Stranger"
9. "Everywhere"
10. "Cross Your Mind"
11. "New Angel"
12. "No Judgement"
13. "San Francisco"*
14. "Still"*
Well! We've made it to the end of the album, but there's no time like the present to keep listening to these songs on repeat. So, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to keep listening until I single-handedly get the album to #1 on the Spotify charts.
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The Best Romantic Comedies To Watch This Valentine’s Day While You Cry Into Your Chocolate2/14/2020 One of my favorite movie genres is the romantic comedy, because who doesn't love elaborate storylines about love that aren't at all realistic yet totally enjoyable to watch? The last time I actually cared about Valentine's Day was probably in elementary school when I got to buy a box of themed cards and hand them out to all my classmates (aka the last time I felt alive), but I still appreciate the effort of the holiday (aka the half-priced chocolate I get to buy when it's over.) Since Valentine's Day is here, I decided to compile a list of my favorite rom-coms because I like to share my favorite things and also because I had nothing better to do, so here they are in descending order: 10. Hitch Hitch is a classic and falls into the I-will-watch-it-on-cable-with-commercials-when-I-randomly-find-it-even-though-I-own-it-on-DVD category. This movie follows a dating coach named Alex aka Hitch (Will Smith), as he helps a client (Kevin James) find love while also navigating his own romantic life with a tabloid reporter named Sara (Eva Mendes.) When Sara discovers Alex's true profession, it threatens to destroy all relationships involved. Really any movie with Will Smith is a good movie because he's an American treasure, but this is one of my favorites - and the scene with his allergic reaction never fails to make me laugh. 9. Sweet Home Alabama I feel like a lot of people haven't seen this movie and I don't know why. Sweet Home Alabama follows a fashion designer named Melanie (Reese Witherspoon), who gets engaged to a gorgeous man (Patrick Dempsey) and must return to her hometown in Alabama to convince another gorgeous man (Josh Lucas) to finally sign the divorce papers for their marriage that ended years ago. However, things aren't as simple as Melanie hopes, and she must decide which life she truly wants. This movie is so sweet that it's actually kind of rude that I wasn't cast in it, but other than that I have no complaints. 8. How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days This movie has peak Matthew McConaughey and that's enough to secure a spot on this list. How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days follows advice columnist (Kate Hudson) - who decides to write a piece on how to lose a guy in ten days - and sports executive (McConaughey) - who bets his friends that he can get a woman to fall in love with him in ten days - as they test their boundaries and capacity for love. I love a rom-com set in New York City about people with unattainable jobs and unattainable good looks, so this one meets all of my criteria. 7. Crazy, Stupid, Love The stacked cast in this movie is enough to secure a spot on this list. Crazy, Stupid, Love follows a man named Cal (Steve Carell) who finds his normal life shattered when his wife reveals she's been unfaithful and wants a divorce. When a charming guy named Jacob (obviously played by Ryan Gosling because who else would they cast for this role?) notices Cal striking out with women at a bar, he decides to take him under his wing. As their friendship develops, Jacob also finds himself drawn to Hannah (Emma Stone), the one girl who doesn't act like he's the best thing since sliced bread (even though he is.) If you're looking for a movie that will make you laugh and also probably cry, this is the one. 6. The DUFF This is probably the most underrated movie on this list, so I'm here to enlighten all of you. The DUFF follows a high school girl named Bianca (Mae Whitman), who decides to reinvent herself with the help of a childhood friend and popular jock (Robbie Amell) after finding out her classmates refer to her as the DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) in comparison to her "prettier" friends. Mae Whitman is super funny and Robbie Amell is super hot so, again, all of the boxes are checked for me on this one. 5. To All The Boys I've Loved Before I'm pretty sure that this movie, specifically the character of Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo), was created to ruin my life - so, here we are. To All The Boys I've Loved Before follows a girl named Lara Jean (Lana Condor), whose life is turned upside down when the secret letters she wrote to every boy she's ever "loved" - including her childhood friend, Peter, and her sister's boyfriend, Josh - are suddenly mailed. When Peter suggests to Lara Jean that they fake date to make his ex-girlfriend jealous and to convince Josh that she's over him, Lara Jeans accepts - and a sweet storyline that never actually happens in real high school but I'm glad it did in this movie unfolds. (Seriously, show me a real-life Peter Kavinsky... I'll wait.) 4. She's All That I'm a sucker for cliché high school rom-coms, ok - leave me alone! She's All That follows a high school jock named Zach ('90s Freddie Prinze Jr., thank you very much!), who bets his friends that he can gain the trust of the nerdiest girl in school (Rachael Leigh Cook) and transform her into a popular prom queen. Not only does this movie follow the classic formula of boy meets girl, girl takes off her glasses, boy second guesses his entire life BUT it also features "Kiss Me" by Sixpence None The Richer, aka one of the most romantic and classic rom-com songs ever, so, enough said. 3. Easy A Emma Stone is in two of the movies on this list and for good reason. Easy A follows a girl named Olive (Emma Stone), who finds herself the talk of the town when a lie she tells her friend about losing her virginity is spread all over school. When she decides to embrace her newfound slut-shaming after reading The Scarlet Letter for class, she finds herself caught up in the act and must figure out how to restore her reputation with help from her childhood crush, Todd (played by Penn Badgley in his prime.) Not only is this movie a classic in its own right, but the funny female lead and boy-next-door combination is always a yes from me. 2. 13 Going On 30 If there's a quintessential romantic comedy to watch on Valentine's Day, it's this one. 13 Going On 30 follows a girl in junior high named Jenna (Jennifer Garner), who, tired of being unpopular with no boyfriend, makes a birthday wish to be an adult and finds herself magically transformed overnight. Lost in her new world, she seeks out her childhood best friend, Matt (played by the dreamy Mark Ruffalo), and finds out the love she was seeking might have been in front of her the whole time. This is one of the few rom-coms that actually makes me cry every time I watch it even though I've seen it a million times, and I would like to go on the record and say that if anyone who's reading this resembles Mark Ruffalo in this movie please contact me immediately. 1. 10 Things I Hate About You Ugh, Heath. I love this movie for so many reasons, but there's something so magical about Heath Ledger's performance that makes it that much better. 10 Things I Hate About You follows a tough high school girl named Kat (Julia Stiles), whose lack of interest in dating prevents her younger sister, Bianca, from having a boyfriend due to house rules that she can't date until Kat does. When another student, Cameron (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), asks out Bianca, she tells him her situation and convinces him to get someone to ask out her sister. Enter charming bad boy Patrick (Ledger), who Cameron pays to pursue Kat, but things get complicated as Patrick develops real feelings for Kat (and vice versa.) This is a classic '90s rom-com and also one of my favorite movies ever, and I think everyone should love it as much as I do. After reading my correct and non-negotiable ranking of the best romantic comedies, I encourage you all to watch them this Valentine's Day; and if you don't, well, then I'll be watching them enough for the both of us.
Greta Gerwig's adaptation of Little Women has been in theaters since Christmas Day, and if you haven't seen it yet then I'd recommend going immediately. Based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott, Little Women follows the lives of the March sisters (Jo, Amy, Meg and Beth) as they navigate life, love and family as young women in 19th century America. Led by Jo (Saoirse Ronan), the story jumps between her childhood with her sisters and her adult life as a writer in New York. This novel made the daily lives of women a topic to be read about and discussed, which was highly unheard of at the time it was published. When I saw Little Women in the theater, there were so many moments when I caught myself holding my breath or not blinking because the story resonated with me so strongly and I was hanging on to every word. This is a coming-of-age story from over 100 years ago, yet Greta Gerwig was able to capture it in a way that felt completely contemporary and still relatable for women today. Creating authentic stories about women in their daily lives made Louisa May Alcott a trailblazer for her time, and the fact that Greta Gerwig (among other women in film, television and literature) are still fighting to create space for such stories proves that there's still progress to be made. When the Oscar nominations were announced, I was disappointed but not surprised that there weren't any women honored in the Best Director category. With so many amazing films made by women in the last year (including Little Women), it still sent a clear message that there wasn't room for them at the table. Please don't try the, "Maybe these five men just did the best work as directors last year" argument with me because I'll tell you that you're lost. While this film clearly stuck with me, it's upsetting to see how people (like this male member of the Academy who couldn't think of a better criticism than "I hated it") can wave it off for something as simple as not wanting to follow a non-linear narrative (which sounds like a personal problem) or not being able to relate to it (tell me how you can relate to space robots turning into cars and superheroes fighting crime and get back to me.) Even if you're not a woman, stories about women are still important (what a concept), and it's not fair for anyone to dismiss that. The themes intertwined in the story of Little Women, from family and marriage to work and women's rights, are all still being discussed in the lives of young women today - and that's why films like this one are so important. Little Women is a representation of so many young women who still must fight for themselves to be taken seriously, who must balance family responsibility with personal independence, who must work twice as hard to get half the credit given to their male counterparts, who must deal with double standards every day of their life. The fact that people are so quick to dismiss this film is enough to show how women and stories about their daily lives are still often belittled or ignored altogether. Some of the most pivotal scenes in Little Women include impassioned speeches from the March sisters about such issues, and how helpless it can feel at times to be a woman. In one emotional scene, Jo tells her mother how women are so much more than just someone to love - that women have minds, ambitions, and talents that they deserve to be recognized for. It's so common for films to portray women as the love interest, or as someone whose life isn't complete until they find someone to love; but in Little Women, Greta Gerwig wanted Jo's main romance to be with her writing. For any young woman today whose priority is to build a successful career and an independent life, seeing Jo's commitment and refusal to settle for what everyone else wanted for her is a big deal (and if you can't relate to it personally, that doesn't make it any less so - just a reminder.) In another powerful scene, Amy (Florence Pugh) tells Laurie (Timothée Chalamet) that he has no right to judge her for pursuing marriage as an economic proposition. Despite the fact that Amy wants to be a painter, she knows that she if she can't be a great artist then she must rely on a husband to take care of her. It would be impossible for her to make a living and support a family on her own, and Amy represents many women at that time who had no choice but to abandon their dreams in order to survive in a society set against them. Yet, even when Amy pursued what was expected of her, she was still criticized for it. Today, whether a woman decides to pursue a career ("don't you want a family?") or she decides to raise a family ("why don't you work?") or she decides to do both ("how do you do both?), standards like this still exist and it's important for women to see stories like theirs portrayed on-screen. Above all, films like Little Women that show young women finding their place in the world and refusing to accept societal norms are valid and important. These stories should be uplifted and respected, instead of being minimized and pushed aside. Women matter, and our stories matter - and we all deserve to have our moment of crying in a dark movie theater while films like Little Women prove to us exactly that.
Today is Super Bowl LIV (aka the 54th if you're a normal person and don't categorize things by roman numerals), and if you're like me then you don't really care much about football. While big events like the Super Bowl are meant to celebrate the end of a season and name one team as the champion, there are also other ways to enjoy this day that has somehow become an unofficial holiday that you end up participating in whether you understand football or not. So, here are some ways to make the most of your day even if you barely look at the TV: 1. Remind yourself that it's one of the few days a year when you can treat yourself to food that you spend all year treating yourself to anyway From wings and sandwiches to nachos and popcorn, any good Super Bowl party will have endless amounts of food, so if you get bored by the game (for me, that's usually one minute after it starts) then just hit up the snack table and enjoy the fact that at least one good thing came from a day all about football. 2. Find other people who have no idea what's going on If you're hanging out with a group while watching the game, there's a good chance there's at least one other person who's as clueless as you are. Having friends to share snacks and ignore the game with will remind you that you're not the only person who doesn't understand why it's ok for people to get emotional over a football game but god forbid you have opinions about an award show. 3. Make yourself the center of attention by rooting for whatever team everyone else is rooting against This one is taken right out of my handbook. Whatever team no one likes is usually the team I'll act like I'm invested in and defend to no end. When I'm surrounded by people who care way too much about a team that they don't even like during the rest of the season, it's necessary to remind them that there's more to life than football and also that I'll do anything to make the game all about me. 4. Watch the halftime show and judge it as if you could do any better J.Lo and Shakira are this year's performers, so naturally there is going to be some very intense choreography going on. Even though I have zero dance ability and I'm not an international pop star (and I'm assuming you aren't either), the halftime show is the perfect chance to summarize a 15-minute performance that's been months in the making by saying, "That was fine." 5. Just agree with what people are saying about the game so you don't actually have to talk about it This is another technique that I've mastered. When people are getting super into a discussion about a bad call or a play that just happened, just nod and throw in "uh huh" and "totally" a few times. I have tried for many years to understand football and it just never took, so if you're the same way then it's probably for the best that you just nod in agreement and then go back to playing an episode of New Girl in your head. 6. Act like you predicted the outcome of the game When a team finally wins the game and everyone storms the field, it's your time to act like you totally called it and knew the team would win even if you spent the whole game cheering for the other team. If anyone questions you, just say that you predicted a spiritual victory for both teams because how do they know what the players are feeling? Try to argue that, football fans. The Super Bowl might technically be a day dedicated to football, but for me it's more about food, friends, and faking it until you make it - aka how I live every day.
While we can all agree that shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation have earned their places as Netflix royalty, there's one show that's been living under the radar for far too long: New Girl. If you've never watched, New Girl follows an upbeat and quirky girl named Jess (Zooey Deschanel), who moves in with three single guys she meets online and the unlikely friendships that form. This show is my favorite comedy of all time, so here's why everyone needs to be paying more attention to New Girl: 1. It has an unmatched comedic ensemble The heart of this show comes from the friendships between the roommates of the loft. Their different personalities and dynamics with each another always result in hilarious situations and heartfelt moments, and every episode makes me wish I could be part of this friend group (yes, I know it's fictional, that's not the point.) The actors on this show were the best choices to bring these characters to life, and they make every episode that much funnier. 2. It has a complex and funny female lead One of the best parts about this show for me is that the main character is a girl with actual complexities and dreams of her own. Instead of Jess being perfect and always put together, we see an accurate depiction of a girl in her mid-20s trying to figure out her life. From career hurdles to friend troubles to dating mishaps (cue to me yelling at the TV for her to just get with Nick already), Jess is symbolic of every girl trying to embrace life while being unapologetically themselves. One of my favorite Jess moments is when she's crying and drinking wine while listening to Taylor Swift because, well, same. 3. It gave us Nick Miller, aka my dream man Nick Miller, Nick Miller, from the streets of Chicago. Nick's ability to go from acting like a grumpy old man who believes horses are from outer space to a total catch worthy of People Magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" title all in one episode is just part of what makes this character so great. With lofty career aspirations, a lack (or sometimes surplus) of confidence, and a desire to live life his own way, Nick is arguably the most relatable (and best) character on this show. Also, so many of his scenes with Jess make me melt, so there's that, too. 4. It gave us Schmidt, aka an iconic character to quote forever Ask anyone who watches this show and they'll agree. With a flair for the dramatics and a sassy-yet-sensitive attitude, Schmidt isn't afraid to completely be himself while also trying to impress everyone at all times. So many of his famous lines like, "All day, I could do this all day" and "I can't find my driving moccasins anywhere," have become things I say in real life on a consistent basis, so this show definitely wouldn't be the same without him. I also can't forget to mention the infamous Douchebag Jar, which Schmidt has to put money in every time he does something totally on-brand for himself (like meeting Cece for the first time and saying "I'm gonna marry you, girl"...) 5. It gave us Winston, who's so wonderfully weird Whether he's pranking his friends as Prank Sinatra, talking to his cat Furguson, or pulling a classic Cece/Winston mess-around (aka all references you'll need to watch to understand), Winston is so funny and at times it seems like he's living in his own world (or maybe it's Winston's world and we're all just living in it?) He has an over-active imagination and no filter, and the best part of it all is that he was originally supposed to be the normal roommate - which just goes to show that no one can hold back Winnie the Bish. 6. It invented the will-they-or-won't-they trope Ok, that might not be completely true, but in my mind it totally is. From the first episode, you can tell that there's more than meets the eye between Nick and Jess, and getting to watch their relationship unfold over the seasons is one of the best parts of the show. They have a unique dynamic compared to other TV pairings, and if you're able to watch this show without rooting for them then I'm concerned for you. Also, if you've seen the show as many times as I have, then you'll understand why That One Specific Episode Where They Play True American TM gets me every time. 7. It teaches us that real relationships aren't perfect and require work Schmidt and Cece have made me emotional with their relationship so many times I can't even count. Even though they're clearly meant for each other, their relationship goes through a lot of ups-and-downs and it takes time for them to be ready to make it work. It's important for shows to portray healthy relationships, and watching Schmidt and Cece find their footing as a couple is almost as educational as it is emotional. I can't think of another couple on TV that reminds me of them, and that's probably because it doesn't exist. 8. It shows us how having a support system can change your life Season one Cece is so different from later seasons Cece, and it's interesting to watch her evolve from Jess's childhood BFF who likes to party to a core member of the group. As she becomes more involved with the roommates, her friendship with Jess and her relationship with Schmidt both become significant for her character development and the show as a whole - and it just shows how critical it is to have people in your life who look out for you and lift you up. Also, it's a good thing she became such an important part of the show because how else would we have gotten this amazing reaction from an equally amazing episode with Prince without Cece's VIP invite to his party? 9. It gave us the bromance to end all bromances Nick, Schmidt and Winston are all so funny in their own right that whenever they're together, I usually end up crying from laughing (which is a lot.) Because Nick tries so hard to hide his emotions and Schmidt so clearly doesn't and Winston usually has no idea what's going on, they all perfectly balance each other out. They portray real friendships between guys who aren't afraid to get real with each other, and it's so refreshing (and hilarious) to watch. True fans will understand my love for the phrase, "Gave me cookie, got you cookie." 10. It also gave us Coach, an honorary member of that bromance He isn't always in the show but he's always in our hearts. Coach originally appeared in the pilot but was replaced by Winston after the show Happy Endings (which Damon Wayons Jr. was already a cast member of) unexpectedly got picked up for another season. Thankfully, we still got to have Coach in our lives for a little while when he joined the roommates for seasons three and four. Even when he leaves the show once again (it's a real roller coaster of emotions), he continues to pop up every once in a while just to remind us all of how much we love him. 11. It gave us True American, aka a game all of us want to play but have no idea how to play True American is a drinking game created by and for the roommates of the loft, but that hasn't stopped fans of the show from trying to figure out the rules. As far as I can tell, it's just a lot of alcohol mixed with American history and sprinkled with a bit of roommate drama, which is why it's so entertaining to watch. JFK! FDR! 12. Finally, it teaches us how your friends can become your family Through good and bad, happy and sad, these characters are always there for each other - and that's the most important takeaway from this show. For seven seasons, we watch this iconic group navigate life and love together as a dysfunctional yet tight-knit family of friends, and by the end of it, it feels like you're part of the fam, too. (I can dream, can't I?) For these reasons and a million more, New Girl clearly deserves more recognition than it gets - so, I hereby declare it as Netflix royalty.*
*Yes, I have the power to do this, don't question me. I Watched The Golden Globes And I Think We Can All Agree That Award Shows Are Too Long: A Recap1/6/2020 The 77th Annual Golden Globes were last night, and considering I have nothing better to do on a Sunday night than spend three hours (plus an additional two hours for the red carpet) watching an award show, I decided to write a recap for all of you. Here are my highlights of the night: 1. Bill Hader and Rachel Bilson confirming they're a couple People began speculating about this potential couple after they were spotted together in Bill Hader's hometown over the holidays, so naturally people were freaking out when they decided to confirm their relationship by walking the red carpet together. Even though it's an odd pair, they're both cool people so good for them; I give them my blessing, which I'm sure they've been patiently waiting for. 2. Beyoncé appearing out of thin air Beyoncé skipped the red carpet and showed up late to the award ceremony because she is Beyoncé and can do that if she so pleases, and no one watching at home even knew she was there until she and Jay-Z were randomly shown on camera. Despite not winning Best Original Song, Motion Picture for "Spirit" from The Lion King, she still made headlines for not joining the standing ovation for Joaquin Phoenix when he won Best Actor, Motion Picture Drama even though that is a ridiculous thing to write a news story about. 3. Amy Poehler and Taylor Swift presenting together Amy and Taylor are two of my favorite people in Hollywood, so seeing them onstage together was just a great moment for me even if the scripted banter still made me cringe. 4. Ansel Elgort wearing glitter eye shadow Whether Ansel Elgort is trying to get cast in the second season of Euphoria or he knows that men being comfortable enough in their own masculinity to go beyond traditional fashion and beauty trends is all the rage, his decision to slick back his hair and rock glitter eye shadow was a bold choice that I am rewarding. 5. Tom Hanks making me cry While accepting the Cecil B. deMille award for his impact on the film industry, Tom Hanks became emotional as he thanked his family and reflected on his decades-long career. It goes without saying (but I'm going to say it) that everyone loves Tom Hanks and his movies; and if you don't agree with this, then you need to stop reading this blog and go consult a doctor. I had chills during his entire speech, and by the end of it I may or may not have shed (more than) one tear. HE'S AN AMERICAN TREASURE, WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME. 6. Michelle Williams using her acceptance speech to call attention to a women's right to choose After her moving speech about inequality in the workplace at the Emmy Awards in the fall, Michelle Williams used her voice and her platform this time to defend a women's right to choose. I would recommend watching the speech in its entirety here, but to summarize, she said that she wouldn't be in the position she's in today without a women's right to choose and she called for all women to vote in their best interests because it's what men have been doing forever. I was cheering her on from home, and when the camera cut to her best friend, Busy Phillips, getting emotional in the crowd I got emotional, too. 7. Brad Pitt practicing his stand-up comedy While accepting the award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture (which is an extremely long title for an award), Brad Pitt delivered some great dad jokes to the crowd. He started his speech by thanking co-star and friend Leonardo DiCaprio (who, according to Brad, we are now referring to as LDC) and then made a Titanic joke by saying he would have shared the raft with him (it was a door, Brad, get your facts right!) He also made a joke about dating rumors, saying he couldn't bring his mom to the event because he's rumored to be dating any women he's photographed with (shoutout to whoever made the decision to show Jennifer Aniston's reaction to that joke - she laughed, everything is fine!) Well! There you have it. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go watch all of the films and television shows that were honored last night because I had no idea what was going on. Harry Styles Just Dropped His New Album "Fine Line" And Here Are My Track-By-Track Reactions12/13/2019 Today is the day we've all been waiting for: Harry Styles finally released his sophomore album, Fine Line. I've been listening to this album about falling in love, breaking up, and finding yourself on repeat all day, so I decided to write down my thoughts. In honor of Harry's return to music (and his 70s California rock vibes), here are my track-by-track reactions to Fine Line: 1. "Golden"
2. "Watermelon Sugar"
3. "Adore You"
4. "Lights Up"
5. "Cherry"
6. "Falling"
7. "To Be So Lonely"
8. "She"
9. "Sunflower, Vol. 6"
10. "Canyon Moon"
11. "Treat People With Kindness"
12. "Fine Line"
Well! We've made it to the end of the album, so if you'll excuse me I'm going to continue listening to it on repeat until I don't want to anymore (which will be never.) Known for sending Jennifer Lawrence into superstardom and sending Liam Hemsworth back into the arms of Miley Cyrus, The Hunger Games series was a large part of pop culture at the height of its success. I haven't seen any of the movies in years, so I decided to dedicate an entire weekend to watching all of them because what else do I have going on? Whether you liked these movies (correct) or you didn't (incorrect), here are some thoughts I had while watching The Hunger Games: 1. I haven't seen the first one in ages and I don't remember anything that happens so this should be interesting. 2. Gale just showed up... goodbye, where's Peeta. 3. I wonder how much time Elizabeth Banks spent in the makeup chair for these movies. 4. Primose: I don't want to get called Katniss: You won't, you'll be fine, relax Effie: *calls Primose* Primose: 5. Katniss just said the phrase heard around the world. 6. Peeta got called and he must be protected at all costs. 7. Now they're on the train to the Capitol and I completely forgot Woody Harrelson is in this movie. 8. Now they're in the Capitol and Lenny Kravitz is here? This movie is stacked. 9. Why did I just get chills when Katniss and Peeta rode into the stadium on fire? 10. Peeta: Let's hold hands to get the crowd going, definitely not because I'm in love with you. 11. Even this early in the series, you can tell old man President Snow is threatened by Katniss and he needs to calm down. 12. The Games started and Katniss ran for supplies while Peeta booked it for the woods, go Peeta go. 13. Some time has passed and I'm supposed to believe Peeta teamed up with other tributes against Katniss? Yeah, sure, ok. 14. Now we're introduced to Rue, who tells Katniss to cut down a hornet's nest so the other tributes and me watching at home will freak out. 15. Peeta told Katniss to run away because obviously he wouldn't go against her! Remember the whole he's-in-love-with-her thing? Some of us actually pay attention to the storyline! 16. Ok, Rue died, no one talk to me. 17. If Katniss wasn't ready to fight before, she is now. 18. The rules of the Games changed and now two victors from the same district can win aka Katniss and Peeta. 19. Katniss found Peeta and he's hurt... who did this, I just want to talk. 20. Katniss just kissed Peeta and it cut to Gale watching back home... that's right, bitch boy, Peeta is king now. 21. There's one other tribute left and he grabbed Peeta away from Katniss, please don't touch the art. 22. Ok, Katniss shot him, she's not messing around! 23. The gamemaker tried to change the team-win rule and Katniss said bet, Peeta, grab the poison berries. 24. The gamemaker just yelled over the loudspeaker to stop because two winners are better than none. 25. President Snow is making the gamemaker eat poison berries, who could have seen that coming? (I did.) 26. Peeta realized that Katniss was pretending to be in love for the cameras and now both of our hearts are broken. 27. Ugh, ok, time for Catching Fire. 28. Ew, Gale kissed Katniss, we're already off to a bad start. 29. Katniss when President Snow shows up at her house and tells her to stay in line: 30. Katniss and Peeta are doing a victors' tour through all of the districts and I don't know why anyone thought this would be a good idea. 31. President Snow decided it would be a fun surprise for Katniss, Peeta and all of the remaining victors from previous Hunger Games to go back into the arena for the 75th anniversary... he needs a new hobby. 32. Now Katniss wants to run away with Gale? Girl, get it together. 33. Katniss: we have to save Peeta Also Katniss: *kisses Gale* Me: 34. Peeta showed off his special skill with a portrait of Rue because his special skill is painting and also being a badass. 35. Now it's time for the pre-Games publicity and Katniss's dress turned into a mockingjay so I am immediately concerned for Lenny Kravitz and his safety. 36. Peeta told everyone that Katniss is pregnant with his baby, clearly someone has been listening to "Kiwi" by Harry Styles (real fans will understand that lyric reference.) 37. All of the victors held hands and President Snow's reaction is me being single and bitter: 38. Capitol guards took Lenny Kravitz, I am unwell. 39. As if that wasn't traumatic enough, it's time for the Games to begin. 40. Katniss and Peeta are allied with Finnick, and even he's better than Gale - no, I won't let this Gale thing go, I hate him! 41. Other victors keep sacrificing themselves for Katniss and Peeta, so they know something is up. 42. Peeta gave Katniss a pearl... this movie is a personal attack on my emotions. 43. Peeta: no one needs me Katniss: I need you Me: 44. They figured out the arena is set like a clock but the gamemaker figured out that they figured out the arena is set like a clock. 45. Katniss and Peeta got separated and I trust no one. 46. One of the other victors just cut out Katniss's tracking device with no warning and now I'm nauseous. 47. Katniss thinks everyone betrayed her but Finnick tells her to remember who the real enemy is... which is exactly what Woody Harrelson told her before she went into the arena... 48. Katniss had enough so she just shot an arrow at the dome and made everything explode. 49. Katniss is rescued by Woody Harrelson, Finnick, and the gamemaker so she can lead a rebellion against President Snow. Oh, and they're going to District 13, which apparently exists. 50. Peeta was taken by the Capitol so I'm done. 51. Except I'm not, because it's time for Mockingjay! 52. The Capitol just bombed a hospital full of people, can my emotions be left alone for one minute? 53. Katniss just saw Peeta on TV for the first time so I guess not. 54. Gale just called Peeta a coward... excuse you, Gale. At least Peeta can act, it's called having range, sweetie, look it up. 55. Gale is standing in Katniss's kitchen like "this is where you kissed me"... bro, we are at war, let it go. 56. Gale: being in pain is the only way I can get your attention Me talking to my TV: yeah she's shocked you can convey those emotions on screen 57. Peeta looks worse and worse every time he's on TV and I feel worse and worse every time I see him on TV. 58. Me volunteering for the mission to save Peeta from the Capitol: 59. Remember when Peeta just made bread and didn't have to be tied down to a bed because the Capitol trained him to hate Katniss? Me either. 60. Me crying because Peeta is crying: 61. Gale: if Peeta gets better I'll never stand a chance because you'll never let him go Katniss: *kisses Gale* Me: 62. Poor Katniss is watching Finnick get married and thinking about Peeta, always the mockingjay never the bride. 63. Peeta is going with all of them to the Capitol even though he's still a wild card, that seems like a smart plan. 64. Peeta can't distinguish what memories are real and what memories are created by the Capitol and I can't distinguish anything that's happening because my tears have blurred my vision but at least he and Katniss are friends again! 65. Finnick: *dies* Me: 66. Katniss: stay with me Peeta: always Me: 67. A bomb just killed Primrose so I'm not doing well. 68. Katniss is alive and the rebels won, so at least I have that. 69. Katniss confronted President Snow and he told her that President Coin of District 13 was responsible for Prim's death and that she used GALE'S PLAN. Was I right about Gale or was I right? 70. Katniss just said goodbye to Gale forever, finally! 71. Coin just made herself president and called for another Hunger Games using people from the Capitol because of course she did. 72. Katniss pulled a Katniss and shot Coin instead of Snow - plot twist! 73. Time for a montage of Katniss and Peeta moving back to District 12 and starting their lives over. 74. Peeta: you love me, real or not real? Katniss: real Me: 75. Years into the future, Katniss and Peeta have two kids and live a beautiful life in isolation because it's what they deserve! Now that I've finished watching all of these movies, I'll be doing what I do after every movie marathon I have and start over from the beginning. May the odds be ever in my favor (see what I did there?) The American Music Awards were last night, and if you missed them then I've got you covered. It was a three-hour live show, so I'm not going to talk about everything that happened because why would I? Here are my thoughts on what I think are the most important moments of the night: 1. Selena Gomez must be protected at all costs Selena Gomez opened the show with a performance that had people criticizing her on social media. It was reported that she was dealing with anxiety and had a panic attack before taking the stage, so maybe everyone just should consider being quiet! She started with "Lose You To Love Me", a song about Justin Bieber that I've been listening to on repeat. Not only is this her most vulnerable (and arguably best) song in a long time, but it also makes me wonder how someone like Justin Bieber ever got someone like Selena Gomez. After breaking our hearts with this intro, she transitioned into her other new song, "Look At Her Now", a self-empowerment song that I like to also refer to as "Sucks To Suck, Justin." 2. Halsey gave a speech while also giving zero f*cks While accepting her first ever AMA for "Favorite Pop/Rock Song" for "Without Me", she seemingly called out the Grammys (who snubbed her of any nominations) and referred to the AMAs as a show that actually matters because it's fan voted and fans are the only people who actually give a sh*t about the music. The camera eventually cut to Taylor Swift cheering her on in the crowd, who also brought the speech up later on in the show, saying that Halsey's speech won the night. I don't know about you, but I think that two of music's biggest female artists teaming up to call out music industry politics deserves an award of its own. 3. Kesha performed "TiK ToK" and added ten years to my life As if opening her gospel-inspired performance by throwing subtle shade at Kanye West with the line, "This is OUR Sunday Service" wasn't enough, Kesha surprised everyone in the audience and me at home when she started singing "TiK ToK." This song was not only her first big hit, but it's also part of the soundtrack to my middle school years, so you can imagine how much I freaked out at the exact moment I heard, "Wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy." 4. The Jonas Brothers weren't even at the show but their performance was still one of the best The Jo Bros are currently on their "Happiness Begins" tour, so the AMAs essentially Skype'd into their Boston concert while they performed their current single, "Only Human." If you know me at all, then the fact that I loved their performance shouldn't come as much of a shock to you, and I was definitely bopping along with them from my couch. Also, this was probably a good move on JB's part considering I immediately wanted to buy concert tickets to another one of their shows even though I was just at one three months ago. 5. Taylor Swift delivered a medley of songs and emotions before being awarded as "Artist of the Decade" I'd been waiting for this performance for weeks and I wasn't disappointed. I'm going to break this down song-by-song, so buckle up: "The Man" Taylor began her performance with "The Man", a female-empowerment anthem from her newest album, Lover. Not only did she wear a shirt with all of her past albums (currently owned by her old record label and Scooter Braun) written in a prison mugshot font (because they were locked up and taken away from her and need to be freed!) BUT she also brought a group of young girls (seven to be exact, just like the number of those albums!) on stage to dance alongside her while she ended the male population. "Love Story" This is the song that essentially jump-started Taylor's career, and ten years later it's still so good. When she ripped off The Man Shirt TM and revealed a Fearless-era style dress, I yelled so loud that my brother knocked on my door to make sure I was ok. "I Knew You Were Trouble." A transition from a romantic pop song to a beat-dropping breakup anthem? It's called range, sweetie, look it up. "Blank Space" This was one of the biggest songs of the decade, so it's only natural that Taylor included it in this performance. Taking the rumors and gossip surrounding her life and turning it into one of the biggest pop songs of all time is literally just Taylor Swift things, and I, personally, love to see it. "Shake It Off" Taylor brought out fellow female superstars Halsey and Camila Cabello to perform with her, and I guess my invite got lost in the mail but I'll get over it. Something I won't get over? Taylor's kiss to her haters at the end. "Lover" If you look closely, all of Taylor's album titles are written on her piano, as well as song titles like "Eyes Open" and "Ours". From the tiny details to her princess dress to the ballet, Taylor brought "Lover" to life and closed her performance on a note that only she can hit! Special Mention: The Speech Taylor began her speech by thanking Carole King for presenting her with the award and for teaching her how "artists could transcend so many different phases and changes in peoples' lives." In true Taylor fashion, she went on to thank her fans and note how important that connection is to her, saying that all any artist like her wants is to create something that lasts. As someone who's been listening to her music from the start, I'm not crying, you are. Taylor was not only awarded "Artist of the Decade," but she also took home trophies for "Artist of the Year" and "Favorite Pop/Rock Album" for Lover - making her the most awarded artist in AMAs history and giving her a reason to run through the crowd looking like literal royalty. Well, you've made it to the end of my highlights for this year's AMAs and if I didn't include something you think I should have, then you're wrong. Sorry, I don't make the rules. Taylor Swift posted an open letter to fans on social media yesterday to reveal that Scott Borchetta and Scooter Braun won't allow her to sing her biggest hits in her performance at the American Music Awards this year in celebration of her "Artist of the Decade" award. Here's the letter in full: Quick back story here: Scooter Braun (manager to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, and Ariana Grande) purchased Big Machine Records from label head Scott Borchetta for $300 million back in June. Included in this purchase were the masters (original recordings) of all the music that Taylor wrote during the 13 years she was signed to Big Machine. After the announcement, Taylor revealed her disappointment over the fact that she was not given an opportunity to buy back the rights to her music, as well as her concern over the fact that her life's work was sold to a man who she says has bullied her for years (Scooter has also managed Justin Bieber and Kanye West, both of whom have had public disputes with Taylor.) After reading Taylor's letter and realizing that I couldn't text her to ask if she was ok, I decided to break this whole situation down and write out some of my thoughts to share with you: 1. A live performance is not the same thing as a recording but maybe if Scott and Scooter knew anything about being a pop superstar they would know this! Like I mentioned, Taylor is being honored as the "Artist of the Decade" at this year's AMAs. Anyone with half a brain cell would know that a proper performance in honor of this award would include Taylor singing all of her biggest hits from the past decade. However, Scott and Scooter seem to think that Taylor performing HER SONGS would be in violation of some rule that doesn't allow her to re-record her albums until next year. However, Taylor has already publicly performed songs like "Shake It Off" since Scooter gained the rights, but now that she wants to perform them under the pretense of an honor like "Artist of the Decade", it's suddenly a problem. Clearly, Scott and Scooter and their big egos can't fathom the idea of Taylor being celebrated for something they couldn't buy - her contributions to the music industry and the impact she's had on millions of fans. 2. If Scott and Scooter are the reason we don't get the Netflix documentary about Taylor Swift that we all deserve then we riot at dawn. Included in Taylor's letter was the revelation that she's been filming a documentary with Netflix about her life over the past few years. I love a good documentary about my favorite musicians, so the fact that Scott and Scooter are being difficult about Taylor using past songs and performance footage in the film is enough to make me start a petition to get them both sent to outer space. It seems like they're doing everything in their power to stop people from appreciating Taylor and her past work, which makes me wonder what's the point of spending millions of dollars to acquire her entire music catalogue. Just kidding, I know why - it's because they're manipulative and egotistical and want to use it as leverage over Taylor for not sitting back and shutting up and letting them do what they want, duh! 3. Scott and Scooter are clearly scared of Taylor re-recording her albums next year and are doing everything in their power to stop it. Taylor is legally allowed to re-record all of her old albums by this time next year, and everyone knows her loyal fans will listen to those instead - making the masters that Scooter purchased for personal gain rendered useless. Giving her the chance to perform her old songs on the condition that she agrees to not record copycat versions is such a tell-tale sign of what their true motive is, and I have no idea how it's considered "business" for executives in the music industry to hold an artist's work hostage until they get what they want. Also: Taylor can't be a copycat of Taylor! Just because she's making new recordings doesn't take away from the fact that the original recordings are also written and sung by her. Honestly, the stupidity on Scott and Scooter's part is exhausting! I also have to take a moment to acknowledge the fact that Scott is also essentially asking Taylor to stop being mean to him and Scooter, which is so funny to me. If you don't want to go head-to-head with Taylor and her army of fans then maybe think twice before purchasing all of her work just for a power trip! 4. If Taylor Swift feels this helpless in the music industry then how bad is it for other artists? Taylor Swift is one of the most famous artists on the planet, so you'd think that she'd be able to get things done without asking anyone for help. If she feels so helpless that she has to turn to her fans and peers for help, then what are these industry leaders getting away with in regards to new artists or just anyone who isn't on Taylor's level? Scott and Scooter clearly have no problem trying to intimidate Taylor into giving them what they want, so I can only imagine what goes on with artists that they actually represent. 5. Speaking of other artists, Taylor does so much to help her peers so won't the real Taylor allies please stand up? While some artists with taste like Selena Gomez, Halsey, and Camila Cabello have taken to social media to voice their support for Taylor, others (especially those managed by Scooter) have been more inclined to take a back seat; I'm not really one to name names, but Ed Sheeran and Shawn Mendes. Both of these artists were invited to open up on tour for Taylor at the start of their careers, and they've both gone on to feature on songs with Taylor (Ed has "Everything Has Changed" and Shawn has a remix of "Lover" that literally dropped this week.) Obviously, I don't know what goes on behind closed doors with these artists (trust me, I've tried), but even if they do reach out privately to support Taylor, at this point it's not enough. You can't just publicly support someone when it's convenient and then turn a blind eye when it might impact you. In her letter, she even calls on artists backed by Scooter to try to talk some sense into him, which makes me believe that she feels just as upset by the lack of support from them as her fans do. Taylor always tries to help other artists, even when it makes her look *insert mean adjective typically said about Taylor here.* Remember when she took a stand against unfair royalty payments from music streaming services and pulled her music until they changed the way they compensate artists but instead of being recognized for her efforts people called her a b*tch and said she had enough money and completely missed the point of her taking a stand because I do! At the end of the day, not a lot of other artists would put up with the sh*t that Taylor does to improve the music industry for all artists, so if they're actually good friends with Taylor like their social media would lead me to believe then the least they can do is show some support for someone who doesn't hesitate to support them! 6. Overall, thinking about Scott and Scooter owning the rights to the music that makes up the soundtrack to my life makes me want to scream into a black hole. When Taylor signed with Big Machine Records, she signed the rights to her songs to Big Machine - NOT Scooter Braun. When she signed with Big Machine at 16 YEARS OLD, she couldn't possibly have imagined that the label head she trusted and a grown man named Scooter would join together in the future to stop her from performing her biggest hits or having any sort of control over her own music. I've been listening to Taylor for over a decade, so naturally I have an endless amount of memories connected both to her as a performer and to all of the songs that she's written. The emotional attachment I have to her music is a feeling shared by millions of her fans, and I don't think I'm alone in saying that she deserves to own her music. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go listen to Taylor's new SELF-OWNED album, "Lover", on repeat and this is your daily reminder from me that you should to!
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