Honestly, i have been planning this for so long that I came to realise that I was spending more time planning than actually writing. So now I am adapting more of a we figure it out along the way approach.
Hi. Jumping right in because I have so many thoughts dying to burst out.
The past few days have been emotional and very satisying, consuming content wise.
I watched The Green Book (a Peter Farrelly film), listened to Linkin Park’s new album (From Zero) and watched the final episode of Modern Family. Which was lo0t of emotional processing over a span of 24 hours.
I went into Green Book blind, mostly to appreciate Mahershala Ali, who I had heard so much about. The movie is a riveting tale of racism that is somehow lighthearted yet heart-wrenching. I had gone in expecting to appreciate Mahershala (who was brilliant) but fell in love with Viggo Mortensen’s portrayal of Tony Lip. One could very reasonably argue hat this is a story that frames his character in the centre and is about his redemption as he sees a genius black man suffer in the Deep South for the colour of his skin. I wonder how his story would have gone had we placed Mahershala’s dignifed Dr. Don Shirley more in the center and explored the briefly touched upon topic of fitting nowhere. Mahershala Ali is sublime as the celebrated pianist forced to play pop music because that is all he will be accepted for by his largely white audience. But for me, Viggo Mortensen took the cake with his gruff portrayal of racist but somehow still a nice guy(?) who comes to grow increasingly horrified at the slights Don shirley has to endure.
As the movie starts, you already know what direction it is going to take. You know that the light hearted banter and humour will give way for more horrific events at the expense of our beloved musician. But knowing it is coming does’nt soften the blow. As our protagonists make their way deeper into the belly of an America that still has “sundown” towns, you grow more and more worried for what the end may entail for our characters. It doesn’t go that way however, and you come out of the movie with all the good gooey if not bittersweet feelings inside.
I was quite heartened to learn this is based on a true story. That people are capable of leaving behind their prejudices and growing a little more accepting even when the circumstances around them are otherwise. I suppose it is always heartening to see that. All in all, it was one of those movies that was well worthy of all the nominations and accolades it was served.
Linkin Park: I admit I only discovered Linkin Park a few years go, and Chester’s death all those years ago had not hit me like it did a few years ago when I grasped the full impact of their music. The reincarnation of this beloved band was welcome news, but like so many people there was a little trepidation out what it would mean for the the band’s creativity. After all, who could replace Chester Bennington?
I still don’t think anyone can. But I absolutely love what they have done with their new vocalist. I don’t know much about Emily’s history in Dead Sara, but i genuinely adore her sound in all the songs in the new album. Somehow they have maintained their artistic integrity while paying homage to Chester’s legacy and still created something beautiful for us to consume and smile and cry about. I think much like others, I will be looping the album for the coming weeks.
My trifecta comes to an end with Modern Family, a show that has gotten me thorugh some tough times over the past few months. Obviously i had heard about Modern Family back when it first came out. And attempted to give it shot a few years ago when I was in a different city and did not have my usual routine. I did not click with me back then. Hell, it almost did not click with me this time around either. But there is something in the show that just keeps you hoked when you give it a chance. And boy, am i glad I gave it a chance. It has been 11 seasons of laughs and tears and warmth. Finishing it has left a hollow feeling in my heart. there wa o many stupid punchlines that made me roll my eyes but my god this show had such heart. It was made with so much love and adoration. The fights, the drama, the cleverly written zingers, the brilliant star cast, the absolutely enviable writing. I will miss this show, but I have a feeling I will come back to it when I am craving the love and affection of a family that always has your back, no matter how different you are.
Today is thanksgiving and I spent a lowkey day consuming great content and finally mustering the courage to write about it. For that, i am thankful.