Shameless is one of those shows that’s lived rent-free in pop culture for over a decade—loved passionately by its fans and side-eyed by those of us who never quite bought the hype. For years, I avoided diving headfirst into the series—not because it didn’t seem compelling, but because the sheer volume of noise from the fanbase was frankly... a little much. There’s something about obsessive fandoms that can make even the best shows feel exhausting before you hit play.
Read MoreFreaky Tales (2024)
Set in the vibrant yet gritty landscape of 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is an anthology film that blends nostalgia, chaos, and urban folklore into a genre-bending experience. Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, the film delivers four interconnected narratives—teen punks defending their turf against Nazi skinheads, a rap duo fighting for hip-hop immortality, a weary henchman on a quest for redemption, and an NBA All-Star seeking retribution. With its eclectic mix of action, humor, and heart, the film is as much a love letter to the Bay Area as it is a cinematic mixtape of underdog stories.
Read MoreLiquor Bank (2025)
Filmmaker Marcellus Cox brings a heartfelt story of redemption to life in Liquor Bank, a short drama inspired by a true story. With a concise yet impactful 15-minute runtime, the film follows an ex-Marine struggling with alcohol dependency, offering a moving exploration of personal growth and the power of unconditional brotherhood. The film opens with Eddie, his phone alarm ringing persistently on his nightstand. Empty beer bottles beside it hint at the night before.
Read MoreThe Assessment (2024)
Fleur Fortuné’s The Assessment feels like an extended but exceptionally crafted episode of Black Mirror, immersing viewers in an eerily plausible future where parenthood is no longer a right but a privilege. The film's exceptional world-building, impeccable set design and standout performances elevate it into something truly special—one of the better films of the year. Set in a dystopian society where aspiring parents must pass a grueling seven-day evaluation, the story follows Mia and Aaryan as they undergo an unsettling trial administered by the enigmatic Virginia.
Read MoreSynthesize Me (2025) #SXSW
In Synthesize Me, director Bear Damen crafts an intimate and haunting tale of grief, memory, and connection through music. Set in April 1989 in a liminal town near Mexico City, the short film follows young teenager Violeta as she attempts to bring her late mother’s synthesizers back to life—only to unleash disastrous consequences for both her and her father. Delivered in a visually striking 4:3 aspect ratio, Synthesize Me feels both classic and timeless, immersing viewers in its vintage aesthetic while maintaining an emotional core that is deeply resonant.
Read MoreM*A*S*H: Pilot (1972) #RetroReview
The pilot episode of M*A*S*H, which first aired on September 17, 1972, lays the foundation for what would become one of television’s most beloved and enduring series. Written by Larry Gelbart and directed by Gene Reynolds, the episode immediately establishes the show’s unique blend of sharp humor, satire, and heartfelt moments. With a premise centered around the antics of doctors and nurses at a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War, the series introduces a colorful cast of characters who set the stage for years of clever storytelling.
Read MoreWhere Are You Really From? (2024)
Keshav Shree’s Where Are You Really From? is a sharp, engaging, and refreshingly original comedy that dives deep into the complexities of cultural identity, assimilation, and the unspoken weight of accents in defining who we are. With an inventive premise—a successful Indian managing director in London suddenly losing his British accent after a stroke—the film balances humor and introspection, making for a compelling watch. Shree, who also wrote and directed the film, proves himself to be a multi-talented force.
Read More7 Times (2024)
Christine Wiederkehr’s 7 Times is a haunting, thought-provoking short film that lingers in the mind long after its brief 17-minute runtime. It delivers an unsettling but powerful exploration of childhood, secrecy, and the devastating impact of abuse, making for an unforgettable viewing experience. From the outset, the film captivates with a symbolic act: Young Elio traps a wasp in a jar, a poignant metaphor for his life's limitations.
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