‘Love me’: Top 5 Vday Classics
‘He loves me…He loves me…NOT.’ Check out my watchlist & reviews for Top 5 Valentine’s Day films.
1.) EVER AFTER
‘Ever After’ is a timeless, captivating and refreshing film, beautifully directed by Andy Tennant, that offers a delightful twist on the classic Cinderella fairytale. Drew Barrymore stars as Danielle, a resilient and spirited young woman who finds herself trapped in servitude under the heartless rule of her stepmother, fiercely played by Anjelica Huston. The film follows Danielle's journey from hardship to empowerment, as she encounters ruthless adversity and blossoms true love with the charming Prince Henry, handsomely portrayed by Dougray Scott. “A fish may love a bird, but where would they love?” The film is visually stunning, transporting us into an enchanting story set in the South of France, with masterful costumes and medieval set design. Castle walls and lush gardens ignite the screen, along with vibrant performances and sincere touches of comedy. ‘Ever After’ is forever a true legacy film, for fans of love seeking a heartwarming and empowering experience.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
2.) GHOST
‘Ghost’ is a gritty, heart stopping, and emotional film set in the late 80s New York City. Molly and Sam, played by the infamous Demi Moore and beloved Patrick Swayze, are madly in love. They can literally melt pottery, no kiln needed. However, when Sam is murdered over a shady business deal, he’s left to roam the earth as a powerless spirit. After he learns the truth about his murder, Sam seeks justice with the help of a fraudulent eccentric psychic, Oda Mae Brown, hysterically played by Whoopi Goldberg. “Molly, you in danger girl.” Directed by Jerry Zucker, this film showcases the use of nostalgic special effects that seamlessly blend the supernatural with the real world. By twisting the power of love and fear of the unknown together, ‘Ghost’ delivers something haunting and truly heartbreaking, distinguishing it still as one of the most romantic films to ever grace the screen.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
3.) ROMEO + JULIET
‘Romeo + Juliet’ is a visually chaotic and modern adaptation of Shakespeare's timeless romantic tragedy, brought to life by esteemed director Baz Luhrmann. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes deliver captivating authentic performances as the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, amidst the colorful backdrop of Verona Beach. “Thus from my lips, by thine my sin is purged.” Luhrmann's bold decision to transform the feuding Capulets and Montagues into rival street gangs adds a fresh and dynamic alternative to the tale. Throughout the film were catapulted into some insane visual aesthetics, vibrant costumes, and breathtaking cinematography. ‘Romeo + Juliet’ is a heartfelt and cinematic portrayal of tragic love, similar to a sour candy. Sweet at the start, and bitter in the end.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
4.) ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND
‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ is a crazy, deep, thought-provoking drama that delves into the intricacies of relationships and the profound impact of memory. After a painful breakup, Clementine, played by Kate Winslet, undergoes a procedure to erase the memories of her former boyfriend Joel, portrayed by Jim Carrey. When Joel discovers that Clementine is going to extremes to forget their relationship, he undergoes the same procedure and slowly begins to forget the woman that he loved. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet both give us remarkable performances, showcasing their versatility as they navigate the emotional depths of their characters. “I’m sorry. It’s just, you know, my life isn’t that interesting.” Directed by Michel Gondry, the film captivates with its unique visual style and imaginative storytelling. As everything unfolds, it skillfully explores themes of love, loss, heartache, depression, anxiety, and the human desire to escape pain. ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ is a masterpiece that challenges the ideals of love and questions the conventional.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
5.) The Notebook
"The Notebook" is a touching and poignant love story set in the 1940s South Carolina. Based on the Best-selling Nicholas Sparks novel and vintagly directed by Nick Cassavetes, it follows the story of mill worker Noah Calhoun and rich girl Allie who are desperately in love. Played by the amazing Ryan Gosling and skilled Rachel McAdams, they express one of the most captivating on and off screen romances in cinematic history. Their chemistry is undeniably palpable, passionate and enduring. I admire how expertly they played on the nuance of two individuals from different social backgrounds who share a meaningful connection. “If I’m a bird, then you’re a bird.” However, when Noah goes off to serve in World War II, their love affair seemingly ends. But when Noah returns years later, it becomes clear that their romance is far from over. "The Notebook" is a gut wrenching tale that tugs at the heartstrings and still leaves you sobbing on the floor after all these years.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
Jasmine Nights: Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy is exactly what you think it is. But then, somehow it’s not. Like how it always reeked of piss and jasmine the entire time. Which made it all feel even more captivating and cinematic. Yes, it’s true. The hundreds of fountains were in full swing, but from one foreigner to another stick to the bottled water. Rome is a crunched city, blending ancient history with modern charm. The columns, statues, food, and hand gestures are all still frozen in time, but the experience was as refreshing as a chilled espresso martini on a Thursday morning.
During my stay, I opted for a one-bedroom Airbnb in Pigneto, a neighborhood often referred to as the "Brooklyn of Rome." Most people prefer to stay in Monti or Trastevere, but if you want less crowds and chaos stay here. It’s only about fifteen minutes from the city center. Right off the bat, if you’re not walking everywhere the best invention is ITAXI, which is essentially Rome’s car service. This will help you get around efficiently. Okay, back to our scheduled programming. Pigneto boasts a calm, eclectic, artsy scene, with cafes, bars, and unique restaurants that caters to a more offbeat crowd. While out exploring the neighborhood I really enjoyed the local artistic atmosphere. However, it's worth noting that Pigneto does lack any desirable shopping options, so if you desire a broader retail experience, then venturing into the city center is necessary. My favorite places in Pigneto were Niché for coffee and cocktails. Also Borgo, I had my first Puccia Burger. It was so good! During the night the city of Rome takes on a Mumbai-Italian vibe, as the silky sky contrasts the glowing street lights and bustling night life. Honking cars, classical musical, and trickling fountains break the sound barrier.
The city center of Rome is a shopaholic's paradise, offering a plethora of options for retail therapy. From high-end fashion boutiques to local artisanal shops, there is something to suit every taste and budget. The streets are lined with renowned designer brands allowing visitors to indulge in a luxury shopping experience. Additionally, the city center is home to various markets, such as Campo de' Fiori and Porta Portese, where you can certainly find unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and vintage treasures. Maybe even, a few things you didn’t know you needed. Most of the thrift stores and vintage shops are actually located in Monti or Trastevere. Definitley check out these amazing shops where I myself got a couple of things. Omero and Cecilia, Vesti di Messalina, and Humana Vintage! Honestly, walking around and exploring all the shopping districts was one of my favorite things to do while visiting, and is a must for anyone seeking a truly diverse retail experience in Rome.
Beyond its many shopping opportunities, Rome's city center is a trove of historical and cultural landmarks. From the iconic Colosseum, which is surreal to see up close. Or the illustrious Roman Forum, where you can literally spend the entire day walking around like an ancient roman. The views from this area were incredible to say the least. The ruined columns up close are adorned with garlands, torches, and surrounded by colorful poppies flowers. The special highlight for me was seeing ethereal parrots soaring above. I found myself closing my eyes to imagine myself reliving a past life. For tourists sake, definite must visits are the trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and the Macuteo Obelisk, which is an Egyptian obelisk dating back to 37AD. Also, there is the breathtaking Vatican City, rich in history and former pope tombs. This metropolis is the central blood line of Italian religion and stretches across a whopping 109 acres of independent city-state. A Koyote trip trick is booking your trip around Italy’s Republic Day, on June 2nd, their Independence Day. All the museums and landmarks are free admission, but tickets and reservations are a must. If you expect trying to get in without one, you’ll be turned away.
Lastly, let’s talk about the food! This magical city also offers a vibrant and delicious culinary scene, with numerous trattorias, pizzerias, and gelaterias serving up quintessential Italian cuisine. It’s gelato everyday, or it’s no deal. My favorite flavors you must try are the salted caramel, Ferre Roche, or cherry chocolate! I will admit finding the best places to eat didn’t depend on reviews or stars, but word of mouth and gut instincts. The pasta sometimes was okay, and others were amazing! I realized I didn’t like wet pizza. But we’ll talk about that another time. However, I did love on the go potato, onion and cheese pizzas. So good! The wine is always organic, and the limoncello was often complimentary. The service and hospitality of the Italians is one of the best in the world, and they really make you feel apart of their family.
Rome was a dream that went by too fast! If you do decide to come here, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with just how incredible this place still is after all this time. Eat everything because you will certainly burn it off and look ten years younger. Make sure to wear your most comfortable shoes, the cobble stone roads aren’t for the faint of heart. And don’t forget to leave a little room for all the gems you find while out shopping and strolling throuh the streets, you’ll be sorry you over packed. Overall, this city has so much to offer, and when YOU’RE finally here, soak it in, immerse yourself in this city’s rich history and culture. ‘Underneath the jasmine nights, let Rome into your heart. If the moon ignites, embrace your new dolce vita life’.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
Until we meet again: ‘All of Us Strangers’
"All of Us Strangers" is a spooktacular romance fantasy film directed by Andrew Haigh. The movie takes place in London tower block, where screenwriter Adam, ‘Fleabag’ alum Andrew Scott, has a chance encounter with his mysterious neighbor Harry, the talented Paul Mescal. As their relationship develops, Adam goes back to his childhood home, where his deceased parents seem to still be living as they were 30 years ago. I really enjoyed their chemistry together most of all and seeing significant representation of LGBTQ+ characters on the big screen! As a young child, I never thought as an adult I’d see it. As to not spoil it too much, this film offers a poignant, suspenseful, and mysterious storyline, with a ‘Sixth Sense’ vibe. In the end “All of us strangers” had unexpected twists and a beautiful love story that was truly a haunting experience.
🐺🐺🐺🐺4/5
Everyone’s mad here: ‘American Fiction’
"American Fiction" is a slice of Dramedy heaven. The film, directed by Cord Jefferson, revolves around Monk, a disillusioned novelist who is fed up with the entertainment industry's exploitation of Black culture. He adopts a pen name and writes a provocative book that exposes the hypocrisy and madness he criticizes. Jeffrey Wright delivers a standout performance as Monk, capturing the character's frustrations and disdain. I thought this film had an excellent flow, exposing information as you’d expect. Additionally, it’s a pleasure to see Issa Rae, who consistently brings her best to the screen. "American Fiction", in my view, offers an exploration of cultural appropriation and the compelling power dynamics within the industry.
🐺🐺🐺🐺4/5
You still can’t sit with us!: ‘Mean Girls’
‘Mean Girls : The Musical’ is a film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical notoriously sung throughout thespian competitions for the last decade. The story once again, follows Cady Heron as she navigates the social hierarchy of high school and gets involved with the popular group known as the Plastics. However, when Cady falls for Regina George's ex-boyfriend, she becomes a target all on her own. The film features Renee Rapp as Regina, who brings a certain attitude to the role but lacks the sparkle. The characters in the film feel emotionally vacant, and the overall adaptation seems to have been dumbed down from its original source material. The singing performances, unfortunately, lack depth and formidable talent. ‘Mean Girls’ was disappointing and fell short. It’s unfortunate to see this beloved musical not live up to its Broadway reputation.
🐺🐺2/5
No pain, no gain: ‘Pain Hustlers’
"Pain Hustlers" is a cheeky crime thriller that puts you into the life of a struggling woman who desperately takes a job at a failing pharmaceutical startup. Directed by David Yates, famously known for his work on the Harry Potter series, this film showcases his talent for creating intense moments of uncertainty. Emily Blunt delivers, yet again, a marvelous performance here. She soon unwittingly becomes entangled in a dangerous racketeering scheme, along with Chris Evan’s character who had a touch of levity. But special shout out to the sensational Katherine O’hara, playing her mother, who was dynamite as always. The movie explores high stakes and the relentless pursuit of victory. "Pain Hustlers" delivers a joyride of emotion with a raw and unapologetic approach.
🐺🐺🐺3/5
Surviving, not thriving: ‘Society Of the Snow’
"Society of the Snow" is a freezing good movie! A drama based on a true story that takes place in 1972 when an Uruguayan flight crashes in the desolate heart of the Andes. Directed by the talented J.A. Bayona, the film expertly portrays the harrowing journey of the survivors who are forced to rely on each other for survival. With skillful direction, the movie captures the emotional and physical challenges faced by the characters, highlighting their resilience and the depths of human strength. "Society of the Snow" is a fantastically brilliant film that showcases the power of the human spirit in the face of nature’s adversity.
🐺🐺🐺🐺4/5
Friend or ‘FOE’:
‘FOE’ is a captivating future-rustic film that takes you on a journey to a secluded piece of land owned by Hen and Junior, a couple whose quiet life is disrupted by the arrival of an uninvited stranger. It is a bit of a slow burn as the true nature of the stranger's proposal is revealed. But the performances from Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan, combined with lows and highs, helps to keep you engaged throughout. Leading us to a heart-wrenching climax that might leave you in tears. If you’ve ever been in love, ‘FOE’ is an emotionally resonant film that will linger with you long after the credits roll.
🐺🐺🐺3/5
Third Degree, ‘Saltburn’:
‘Saltburn’ is a gripping and darkly humorous psychological thriller that takes you on a twisted journey. Written and directed by Emerald Fennell, the story follows Barry Keoghan’s character Ollie as he attends Oxford University under false terms. He becomes enthralled in a new friendship with Jacob Elordi’s character Felix and is invited to spend the summer at his eccentric family’s estate, leading to a series of dazzling, unexpected, and bone chilling events. The highlight set design by Suzie Davies is simply magnificent and satisfying, using color and depth to enhance the tone. ‘Saltburn’ delivers a sensually haunting and obsessively intriguing storyline layered with freshly used entitled bath water, plunging you deep into a tangled complex spiderweb of submission.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
Gimmie more, ‘Poor Things’:
‘Poor Things’ is a thought-provoking and mindful film that immerses you in a dystopian Victorian world filled with salacious sex work and wild inventions. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the story revolves around Bella Baxter, a woman with a mysterious past and the brain of a child, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, experiencing life itself for the first time. Emma Stone delivers an extraordinary performance, portraying her with a captivating authenticity devoid of regret or remorse. William Dafoe expertly plays her creator, and Mark Ruffalo embodies her narcissistic lover with a comedic integrity. ‘Poor Things’ is perfectly executed, dancing with themes of romance and the essence of being alive. It challenges societal norms and the creation of existence through a wildly introspective lens, resulting in a compelling cinematic film experience that’ll have you craving for more.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
Release your inner star child: ‘The Meltdown’ Joshua Tree, CA
‘The Meltdown’ in Joshua Tree, California, is an Airbnb fortress of solitude. Secludedly bordering the crystal quartz mountains of Joshua National Park, this desert oasis offers a warm, enlightening, and transformative experience. Designed by Artist Shawn Button, ‘The Meltdown’ is an immersive stay that transports you into an alternate dimension, where comfort is key and time seems to stand still. The space functions as both a gallery of Button's work and a living, breathing art installation.
The decadent design promotes a sense of play and encourages you to tap into your inner star child, providing the perfect incubator from the chaos of city life. Lush vibrant vegetation, reflective stained glass, and mesmerizing sculptures illuminate the space. Surrealist archways are a prominent feature, as is the color way of brushed pink, lavender, blue, and yellow hues to enhance the areas sunsets. It’s 360 degrees of precision and ambition pushing the boundaries of what is considered to be a ‘normal’ getaway. Button himself described the process of creating this space as “Divinely instinctual and exhilarating”. He says “He’s happy to have created a safe place for guests to find their peace, and to be able to share his passion project with the world.”
Private and surrounded by nature, the location allows you to really disappear into the unknown. The front entrance is adorned with Spanish and Italian tiles, and a signature black and white door symbolizing the portal to yin and yang. The inside of the luxurious property features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen. My shower was, I must say particularly noteworthy, reminiscent of showering in what can be described as a Moroccan dream. The outside features spaces to enjoy, including a covered side patio, a cactus garden, an outdoor shower, and a hot tub with unobstructed views of the landscape. This spot is particularly special for wishes, stargazing, and spiritual connection.
Feel like getting out of the house? The house is located on the northern edge of the Joshua Tree National Park, so you can walk directly from it to access the park’s hiking trails. Nearby there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. A personal favorite is the local Mas O Menos, serving fresh coffees, sandwiches, and after dark cocktails. Or Brewja Cafe for the best specialty lattes and teas you’ll ever have in your life. If you want the best iced cappuccino head over to Crossroads Cafe. Looking for a vibe? Enjoy town dives during the night at The Saloon, The Tiny Pony, and The Copper Room. I was honestly amazed at how many cute, local fun shops were established here!
Overall, ‘The Meltdown’ offers a truly unique and harmonious vacation experience that supersedes expectations. Thoughtfully designed, stunning sights, and visionary art installations, it provides a place where you can melt into your own creativity and enjoy the soft, silent embrace of the desert…
A very special thank you to Shawn for welcoming me graciously into his home. Book your next trip here ‘The Meltdown’ on AirBnb.com. Also, check out ShawnButton.com to view all his latest works!!
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
Action vs. Reaction: ‘May December’
‘May December’ is a provacative and chilling drama that delves into the complexities of a controversial relationship. Directed by Todd Haynes and written by Samy Burch, the film loosely draws inspiration from the Mary Kay Letourneau scandal. Creepishly good, Natalie Portman delivers a captivating performance as an actress who inserts herself in the life of Julianne Moore’s character, who is tabloid public pariah skillfully portraying her self desire to protect her secrets and maintain a mask of happiness. The film explores relationships through the themes of paranoia, regret, and the life changing lengths one will go to embody a role. ‘May December’ is an unsettling exploration of human nature and the consequences of regrettable choices that dares to you question your own morality.
🐺🐺🐺🐺4/5
Special Agent, ‘Oppenheimer’:
‘Oppenheimer’ was a fantastic biographical drama about the great Dr. Oppenheimer. The film chronicles his career predominantly focusing on his studies, his direction of the Manhattan Project during World War II, and his eventual fall from grace due to his 1954 security hearing. Directed and written by Christopher Nolan, he beautifully captures the sinister nature and essence of American History. A riveting and stellar performance from Cillian Murphy, as Doctor Oppenheimer, gives us a three dimensional portrayal of a complicated man. Emily Blunt was bold as his wife. And Robert Downey Jr., shined as his nemesis. ‘Oppenheimer’ was about one hour too long but, for story sake and humanity, I respect it. A stark reminder of the past that still haunts our society, reflecting on mankind’s desperation for survival.
🐺🐺🐺🐺4/5