Sometimes you just want to close your eyes and ears to the predictable crapola media dishes out, don't you? All of the "Year in Review" lists are whirling around, listing the same stuff, over and over, like it's all pre-ordained and we've all decided, "Yes, THESE were the best movies, books, songs, moments." But how can that be? We're snowflakes, people, no two of us alike.
So, naturally, I've been thinking about my favorites, things that resonate still, after months or weeks, things that didn't just fly through my noggin making a brief stop to blast me with special effects or trendy "it" themes or manipulative sentiments.
These are my favorites of 2011.
Favorite movie: Circo, a gorgeous look at a family under the immense pressure of running a family circus in Mexico. Watch the kids, especially. They're spectacular and sad and strong. Resilience in motion.
Favorite TV show: Louie. I love this show, and I don't love TV. Profane at times, and almost always honest. The first time my husband and I watched it, we thought, fine, another comedy, and at the end we were saying, "Whoa. That's dark. But . . . awesomely dark." I don't know why I love it. I just do.
Favorite book: Okay, there's no way I'm going to tell you my favorite book, because too many of my friends write them. I did enjoy getting immersed in State of Wonder by Ann Patchett this year. It wasn't perfect, but few books are, and she kept me engaged. As someone who has a hard time reading fiction these days without seeing the scaffolding, that means a lot.
Favorite music: Fine, I'm predictable on this one, but can I help it that I love Adele? I got to see her perform this year, which seals the deal. She's the real thing, big soulful honest heartache. And then she giggles and says something wacky in her Cockney accent, and you have to love her even more.
Favorite moment: Now, on the verge of letting the year go, looking back, bittersweet and ready to move ahead.
Tell me your favorites . . .
And happy brand new year, everyone.
Hi Jennie! Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteI hear you about all the lists that we have to endure this time of year...seriously, it's just a way for reporters to be lazy so they don't have to do as much writing/research and they can party.
Anyway, my favorite movies this year were: The Muppet Movie and the last Harry Potter film.
Favorite TV show: I watch a lot of TV, but if I had to narrow it down, I'd say my top two were Glee, which is just WONDERFUL, it's like watching a musical each week (I'm a big fan of musical theater) and Castle, because Nathan Fillion is a marvelous actor, and it has been fun oogling Alex O'Loughlin on Hawaii Five-O...just sayin'
Favorite Book: Again, it's hard to narrow it down, but the book I am currently reading "Howard's End is on the Landing" by Susan Hill is delightful fun, and I loved Erica Bauermeister's "Joy For Beginners" too. "When She Flew" was also a grand and delightful read, but I don't remember when I read it, whether it was this year or last.
Favorite Music: I totally agree with you about Adele, she is AWESOME, and I've been enjoying Katie Perry's music this year, too.
Favorite moment: Getting to interview Erica Bauermeister about her new book, and having her spend an hour and a half chatting with me...she is such a lovely person, she's a joy to interview!