Story Stream: 8/8 - 8/14
Happy Saturday, friends! I hope you've all had a really fantastic week filled with compelling stories and good conversations. I know I have. I'm packing now for a week long family vacation I've been really excited about, but wanted to make sure and share first the stories I've been streaming this past week. Here they are!
_____________________________________
MOVIES
The Suicide Squad (2021)
I'm not typically a fan of DC comic book movies, at least not on the same level as the Marvel Cinematic Universe films. But, for whatever reason, I think the Suicide Squad / Harley Quinn movies are kind of fun. We went and saw this in theaters, which is always a treat, and while it's not like the best movie of 2021, it is pretty fun. There are certainly some scenes (and characters) I could do without, but generally speaking it's a good time. In theaters and streaming on HBO Max. (6/10 - Recommended)
Old (2021)
I'm an M. Night Shyamalan fan. Unfortunately, part of being an M. Night Shyamalan fan is the need to keep expectations very, very low. Where he used to produce AMAZING movies, I've learned to be satisfied now with films that just aren't entirely terrible these days, (I'm looking at you, The Happening). I haven't been excited about this movie, because I knew that would lead to disappointment. So, with the lowest of expectations, I got to enjoy this one more than expected. Not because it's good. Just because it was better than I expected. Your call on this one. Take it or leave. Just know you probably won't LOVE it. Currently in theaters. (5/10 - Recommended-ish?)
_____________________________________
TV
Big Brother (Episodes 12-14)
It's getting good! I love this show so much. And I specifically love this part of of each season so much. Houseguests are vying for their spot on the jury (at least), and people are starting to be hyper-paranoid. It's so fun. You really need to get into this show if you're not already! Streaming on Paramount Plus. (6/10 - Strongly Recommended)
Love Island (several episodes, I don't know)
It was garbage before. It's getting worse though. It's burning garbage now. It's such trashy TV. But even still, there was actually one really human moment on one of this week's episode. I teared up even. So, you just never know!. Streaming on Paramount Plus. (2/10 - Recommended)
The Bachelorette - "Week 8"
This season ended, but I haven't finished it yet. One episode away. So much DRAMA. So much... immaturity. One episode to go (I think). I'll update you next week! Streaming on Hulu. (1/10 - Not Recommended)
_____________________________________
PODCASTS
SmartLess - "J.J. Abrams" and "Tony Hawk"
I actually listened to the JJ episode LAST week, but forgot to mention it. I love both JJ Abrams AND Tony Hawk, so these were a real treat for me. Definitely give them a listen! Streaming on all podcast listening apps. (8/10 - Highly Recommended)
_____________________________________
MUSIC
Further Seems Forever - The Moon Is Down (2001)
I was introduced to this record in 2003 (I think), and have loved it ever since. Pre-Dashboard Confessional Chris Carrabba will always occupy a bit of real estate in my heart. Emo may not still be a thing, but this is still such a solid rock album. I love it still. Streaming on all the music apps. (9/10 - Very Highly Recommended)
Jimmy Eat World - Bleed American (2001)
What can I say? I was on a 2001 emo kick. This is another album that has withstood the test of time, despite the genre to which it belonged having faded into oblivion. I honestly don't know another Jimmy Eat World album, but I don't feel like I need to with the way this one still excites me. If you haven't heard it in a while, trust me: revisit it. Streaming on all the music apps. (9/10 - Very Highly Recommended)
Randy Fuller - Give Up The Ghost (2010)
Randy is one of my very dearest friends. Ever. He's also my former bandmate. He released this solo record over a decade ago, and it's still just as good today as it was the day it released. I legitimately couldn't love it more, or be more proud of his work. It's truly excellent. Streaming on all the music apps. (10/10 - Most Highly Recommended)
Ryan Horne - Love & War (2007)
I've loved this album since before it released actually. I had the great pleasure of being in the studio with Ryan at the time this album was being made. My band was in the next studio over recording our own album. His is... MUCH better. This is very Ray LaMontagne feeling, maybe even a little TOO much. But still such an incredible collection of songs. Streaming on all the music apps. (8/10 - Ver Highly Recommended)
____________________________________
Alright friends, I'm beach bound for a week. I'm sure there'll be plenty of books, movies, podcasts, etc. to fill next week's story stream! In the meantime, let me know what you're enjoying these day! I'd love any recommendations. Just comment below!