I feel like I should preface this post by letting you know that this is not, in any way, shape, or form, a holiday watchlist! It’s been quite a while, though, since I shared what shows and movies I’ve been enjoying, so it felt like it was time for an update.
The Sex Lives of College Girls (HBO Max)
This is my favorite of the list! It’s Mindy Kaling’s latest show, and it’s about four women starting college and becoming friends. It’s funny, of course, but also rings really true in a lot of ways – about how college is a time for figuring out who you are and what you want, deciding what’s important to you, and new friendships with people who are different than those you hung out with in high school. It also has A+ disability representation with Lolo Spencer in the cast, in a completely non-tokenized role. As a bonus – do yourself a favor an listen to Renee Rapp (Leighton in the show) sing on Instagram. Her voice is truly INCREDIBLE!
Great British Bake Off (Netflix)
GBBO and Spencer may both be British, but that is where the similarities end. GBBO is the happiest, most supportive, most cheerful reality show that I’ve ever watched! The contestants don’t take themselves too seriously, and it’s really fun to see all of the elaborate pastries and desserts the bakers come up with. Plus… Paul Hollywood. Need I say more?!
Spencer (Apple TV)
The only movie on the list! Spencer all takes place over the extended Christmas holiday, when Princess Diana and the rest of the royal family go to spend the holidays at Sandringham. This is not a light movie – not a romance, or a comedy – it’s dark, and really deals with the struggles that Princess Diana was facing and her wrestling with the decision to divorce Prince Charles. It’s psychological, too – some scenes, it’s unclear if things are really happening, or if they’re just in Princess Diana’s mind. Kristen Stewart is really, really excellent as Princess Diana. Also – I should note this movie is still fictional – the events are realistic, and the struggles are real, but it’s still not a documentary about Princess Diana’s life. (TW: eating disorder)
Succession (HBO Max)
I’ve been waiting for this show to come back for a while. It’s a dark show, for sure, about all of the infighting and politics between family members who own a (huge, expensive) family business… and basically, the ways that they all keep conniving to screw each other over. The acting is incredible, and I also want all of the luxuriously soft sweaters that Siobhan wears all the time!
Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)
If you haven’t watched this yet, you absolutely need to. It’s comedic gold with Steve Martin and Martin Short, and Selena Gomez really impressed me, too! After one of the tenants in an apartment complex is murdered, the trio pairs up to solve th mystery – and starts a true crime podcast about their adventures, too. It also gets a gold star for disability representation in a non-cliche way. Love!
