Pop music is one of the most common and recognized genres in the world. We know it today from artists like Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Olivia Rodrigo and many others. But what about pop music from another decade? The Netflix documentary, “The Greatest Night in Pop,” shows some of the most popular music artists of the 1980s coming together to make a song for humanity.
This documentary takes place in 1985 when Lionel Richie and Michale Jackson started writing the song “We Are the World.” The song was a charity single that was created for African famine relief to help people in Ethiopia during the massive drought and famine that was occurring. The plan was to bring together all of the biggest artists of the era and record this song together which had an uplifting and powerful message. The song brought in names like Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Billy Joel, Willie Nelson, Cyndi Lauper, Bob Dylan and so many more of the time’s most popular singers and songwriters.
This documentary shows the entire process of creating this impactful song from the initial idea to the song heard around the world. I thought that this was incredibly well done and shows the emotions of making this song compared to just going over basic details. It has in-depth interviews with some of the singers on this song and the feelings they felt while recording.
If you are a fan of music from the 70s and 80s, this is a must-watch. Before watching this, I had never heard this song or had only heard small snippets of it. Seeing the story of how this song came to be was truly a thing I won’t forget.
When Disney’s “Moana” came out in 2016 it was one of the most successful animated movies the company had ever released. Now, eight years later they’ve created a sequel to continue the story of the well-loved Polynesian way-finder. While Moana’s first adventure explored the concepts of finding yourself, following your passions and breaking through generational traumas to learn how to heal from them, “Moana 2” emphasizes the importance of connection with other people, groups and cultures, and how those connections keep your stories and legacies alive.
In the movie, “Moana” sets back out to the sea with much more experience than her first go-around – and with a few new characters to accompany her – to find and raise a lost island that used to connect people from all corners of the ocean, but was hidden by a power-hungry god that wanted to see to the end of humanity. Throughout the movie, the themes of social connections, taking risks, and trusting yourself remain prevalent.
“Moana 2” is an exciting, fun and beautiful movie that can be enjoyed by everyone, from young kids to people who were around when the original hit theaters. It is rich with culture, good music and lessons that all people can gain something from if they’re looking for it.
Rated R, requires guardian for anyone under 17
2024 was a huge year for cinema, with hit movies like “Wicked” and “Longlegs” coming out. However, the best movie of the year wasn’t even released until the very end of the year.
“Nosferatu,” directed by Robert Eggers, is a reimagining of the original silent film that was released in 1922. The movie was a cinematic masterpiece, using elements of color palettes, scenery, and music to tie the haunting beauty of the film together.
“Nosferatu” is (debatably) a love story between vampire Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgard) and Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp). Thomas (Nicholas Hoult) is Ellen’s husband and is sent by his boss to visit Orlok in his castle to discuss business matters. While in the castle, Thomas is plagued with terrifying dreams and struggles to grasp reality.
Back home, Ellen is suffering from “emotional episodes” that Professor Eberhart von Franz (Willem Dafoe) can only describe as a possession, revealing that Ellen is cursed.
Orlok visits Ellen and gives her a proposal, she has three nights to submit herself to him, or he will kill her loved ones. By the third night, Orlok has taken the lives of her friend Anna (Emma Corrin) and Anna’s daughters.
To save the lives of those she loves, she sacrifices herself. The movie ends with both Orlok and Ellen’s death.
Rated R, requires guardian for anyone under 17
Following the release of “Avengers: Endgame” in 2019, Marvel Studios has been on a bit of a questionable run when it comes to releasing movies. With a number of titles failing to reach the kind of audience that was once associated with the MCU, they needed something big to bring fans back in. Fortunately for them, “Deadpool and Wolverine” filled this need. Complete with the action and comedic aspects fans have known to expect of the Deadpool franchise, it’s no wonder it was one of the top titles of 2024.
The film follows the story of Deadpool as he attempts to live a peaceful life, which is promptly interrupted as he is called upon to save the multiverse. As he travels through multiple universes, he is eventually offered his dream, a spot on the Avengers. Despite this, Deadpool remembers those he cares about in his universe, and decides to team up with Wolverine, much to his disdain. From here, they save Deadpool’s home universe from existential threats in his typical comedic yet violent fashion.
What made this film stand out is just how funny and meme-able it was. Ryan Reynolds plays a fantastic comedic role, and when paired with the stern personality of Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, the two came together to create a memorable film which had audiences worldwide laughing all throughout.
While many may argue the cinematography of other 2024 releases tops that of this particular film, it’s undeniable that “Deadpool and Wolverine” was quite funny, and in as sad of a world as we currently live in, there’s always room for a good laugh.
Rated R, requires guardian for anyone under 17
On Oct. 18, 2024 “We Live in Time,” an A24 film directed by John Crowley, released into theaters. The film follows the life of a young couple, Tobias and Almut, through time jumps. The story revolves around Almut’s ovarian cancer diagnosis and how the couple works through everything that is thrown at them. We see the characters grow and change through time, switching between different points in their lives. This nonlinear order flawlessly symbolizes the uncertainty of time.
Andrew Garfield portrays Tobias alongside Florence Pugh who plays Almut. The casting for this movie could not have been more perfect. Garfield and Pugh’s chemistry allowed for emotion to be felt by the audience countless times. These actors have proven their talent as they both are Academy Award nominees. Fans were very excited to see the two paired together in a film and were even happier to learn it was a romantic one.
The entirety of “We Live in Time” prepares the couple and the audience to face Almut’s fate, which is written out in the beginning: How much time does she have left? And how can she spend it best? Tobias, being a strict planner and Almut having more of a free spirit, tend to clash numerous times. However, the couple understands their premature grief and how that is affecting their behavior.
This film perfectly captures a battle against the clock that ultimately ends with grief. I strongly encourage people to stream it as it is available on YouTube, Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video. I also recommend avoiding wearing mascara and having tissues within reach.
Rated R, requires guardian for anyone under 17
A movie that really stood out to me this year was “The Instigators.” This thriller comedy had both quick witty jokes as well as realistic and depressing elements. The movie did a great job of including the elements of depression and coping with it through comedic relief. I really enjoyed this movie; the dramatic scenes still had hints of humor, which I think made the movie stand out.
The stars of this movie included Matt Damon and Casey Affleck, and they have starred in another great movie titled “Good Will Hunting,” which is my favorite movie. They have experience working together, and have chemistry that really shows in this new movie. Casey Affleck provides the comedic relief, and the pair bounce off of each other’s dialogues perfectly.
This movie follows two middle-aged men who become part of a robbery to get some spare change. They both have personal issues and Damon’s character, Rory, struggles with depression, using therapy as a way to cope. This robbery seems to take his mind off of that depression, and the way he portrays that in his acting was perfect.
Overall, the acting in this movie is great, and the plot is intriguing as well. I absolutely recommend this movie and that is why it is my choice for the movie of the year.
Since the 2003 debut of “Wicked” on Broadway, the tale of Oz’s two favorite witches has touched the hearts of countless people. Understandably, fans of the show have been anticipating a movie adaptation for years. The project was finally released Nov. 22 of this year, and has claimed the title of the best movie of 2024.
The movie is the first of a two-parter, and due to this, only covers the first act of the stage musical. Though the original first act has a runtime of an hour and a half, the movie version was extended to two hours and forty minutes. The extra hour and ten minutes add extremely valuable detail and a better focus on the characters and their respective backstories, making the overall product much more powerful.
Along with the incredible writing, the cinematography was second to none. The director, Jon Chu, had obviously made practical sets a priority, even going so far as to plant 9 million tulips for the film. All of this work paid off, as the world of Oz I saw on the screen immersed me immediately.
The performances by lead actresses Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande had audience members in tears, followed closely by the performances of Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. Overall, the cast perfectly fit their roles, and brought the script to life.
From its release day, this film was a huge box-office success. It made $164 million only within its first week. It currently stands as the sixth highest-grossing movie of 2024.
Set in the far future, “The Wild Robot” masterfully explores themes of family, self-development and what it means to be “human.” Released in September, this beautifully animated movie entered every audience member’s hearts and minds.
The story follows the personal assistance robot Roz (Lupita Nyong’o), who finds herself shipwrecked on a far-off island during a failed delivery. After a strange turn of events, Roz is tasked with raising the orphaned gosling Brightbill (Kit Connor) with the help of a sneaky fox named Fink (Pedro Pascal). In doing so, the robot must become more than she was programmed to be and come to terms with what it truly means to embrace every part of herself and her community.
This heartfelt love note to parents and found family is a gorgeous homage and deservedly succeeded at the domestic and international box offices. “The Wild Robot” is the best animated movie to come out in 2024, and quite possibly the best product of Dreamworks Animation’s discography.
With the overwhelming success from the first “Inside Out” movie, many fans wondered if there was going to be a continuation. These fans guessed right with the movie “Inside Out 2,” making an appearance in the box office.
This movie brings back Riley and her emotions: Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger and Disgust. As Riley hits 13 years old, however, she brings new emotions into the headquarters with them being Anxiety, Embarrassment, Ennui, Envy and Nostalgia. Now, her old emotions must face her new ones and find a way to work together so they can look over Riley.
However when the new emotions throw the old emotions out of headquarters and Riley’s old “sense of self,” they must travel through her mind to get back to headquarters before they change her for good.
This movie shows how your emotions can change when you grow up and how they can really affect you and might even change you. I think this was shown wonderfully in the movie with capturing the emotions as if they were our own, making many fans feel Riley’s emotions along with her. There are still so many emotions they could capture in making another movie, and I am curious to see if they take this to the next level.
Rated R, requires guardian for anyone under 17
“Woman of the Hour” is based on the true story of Sheryl Bradshaw and her haunting run-in with serial killer Rodney Alcala. Bradshaw went on hit TV show “The Dating Game” while looking to expand her acting career.
This show normally prompted a selected bachelorette to question three selected bachelors, who were hidden from view by a wall. At the end, the bachelorette would select one bachelor to go on a date with, all expenses paid. The last thing you would expect is to be set up with an undiscovered serial killer on a popular game show.
This movie was excellently directed, and from the lighting to the sound, it knows how to haunt and capture the audience. The emotions, the acting, and the genuine horror make this movie unlike any other.
Rodney Alacala was charged with five counts of first degree murder, and was known as “The Dating Game Killer” due to his appearance in the show. While never confirmed, it is speculated he has as many as 130 victims. This movie followed many different victims, showing the scope of his attacks.
Without giving too much away, this show is nothing short of horrifying, and is truly a thriller. I’ve never watched anything that made such an impact.
My sister’s biggest fear has always been tornadoes. Every time there’s a crack of thunder a bit too loud, she’s hiding in the coat closet with a bike helmet and the family dog. So, when she walks out of the theater after watching a movie titled “Twisters” gushing about how impeccable it was, you know it was a hit.
Released on July 19, “Twisters” follows a young storm chaser, Kate Carter. Traumatized from a deadly tornado experiment, she conquers her fears and rediscovers her passion for storm chasing over the course of the movie, helped along by a wild “Tornado Wrangler” that pushes her to take risks.
“Twisters” is the long-awaited sequel to “Twister,” first released in 1996. Having seen the original countless times, I was at first skeptical of its sequel releasing 28 years later. However, the movie exceeded my expectations: the plotline was rich, the action was thrilling, and it even included a reference to the original film.
A major contributor to the movie’s success were the various actors involved in production. Daisy Edgar-Jones, best known for her performance in “Where The Crawdads Sing,” starred as Kate Carter. “Hamilton” star Anthony Ramos played her friend, Javi. Most importantly, every girl flocked to theaters to see Glen Powell, playing Tyler Owens, wrangle a tornado while singing along to Luke Combs.
Providing thrilling entertainment and romance while exploring themes of trauma, risk-taking and grief, “Twisters” is no doubt one of the best movies of 2024.
I’ve been a HUGE music lover for as long as I can remember and I would consider myself to have a pretty eclectic taste — I’m talking 2010s Bruno Mars, hardcore country, Christian contemporary, teen pop and everything in between. One of my personal favorites is the CCM pop/rock duo, Joel Smallbone and Luke Smallbone, widely known as “for KING + COUNTRY.” But as much as I’ve loved having their albums on repeat, it wasn’t until this year that I truly appreciated their work for what it was.
In 2022, “for KING + COUNTRY” released a song called “Unsung Hero,” which paid tribute to their mother. Two years later, a movie with the same name premiered in theaters, illustrating the Smallbone family’s story and taking the Box Office’s #2 spot.
The movie takes place in 1991 and follows the Smallbone family’s move from Sydney, Australia to Nashville after the father, David Smallbone (portrayed by Joel Smallbone), experiences a negative turnout in his career. As they settle into their new home, the family encounters challenges, including financial trouble and uncertainty about living in a foreign country. Yet Helen, David’s wife and mother to the Smallbone children, remains unwavering in her faith, eventually instilling this same hope into her husband and kids. At the end of the movie, it’s clear that “for KING + COUNTRY,” along with their sister, Rebecca St. James, owe much of their musical success to their mother’s resilience.
“Unsung Hero” is a film worthy of awe and tears (yes, I cried several times while watching it). But beyond that, it has the ability to inspire faith and endurance among anyone who is going through something hard and doesn’t see a way out. It did for me. And it can be for you too.
Though Sabrina Carpenter’s “A Nonsense Christmas” movie is short and sweet, it is a film that was quite entertaining during the holiday season. Carpenter adds to the holidays by producing a holiday special of her own to add to her career.
In between songs, Carpenter adds little skits to continue on the special and make it more entertaining. In these skits, she has many celebrities join her to add to the fun of the film. These celebrities include Sean Astin, Quinta Brunson, Jillian Bell and more guests. I think the little theatrical moments sort of bring inspiration from SNL, which is one of the best parts of the whole special.
During the songs, Carpenter brings on special guests to sing her holiday songs as well as the classics. Some of the celebrity guests she brought on to sing with her included Chappel Roan, Shania Twain, Tyla and Kali Uchis. I think one of my favorite performances was when Roan and Carpenter sang “Last Christmas”. Their vocals were top-notch and blended well together throughout the song. The set looked like they were doing karaoke after hours of being at a party.
I think the film overall was successful in entertaining me during the long holiday break. It was so creative of Carpenter to create this musical special for the holiday season. I think more artists in the future should start doing holiday specials like this because it was so incredible to see.
