In addition to recapping my end of year favorites (films, plays, books, albums) I thought for 2025, I’d share each month. Without further adieu and in no particular order, here are some January faves…
FILMS:
La Haine directed by Mathieu Kassovitz – a reviewer wrote “one of the most blisteringly effective pieces of urban cinema ever made”; I couldn’t agree more.
The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg directed by Jacques Demy – might be the most beautiful film ever made; heartbreakingly romantic and devastating.
The Earrings of Madame de directed by Max Ophuls – I’ve always wanted to see this one because great directors like Paul Thomas Anderson, Greta Gerwig and Noah Bambauch talk about the brilliant camerawork; there is that indeed, but the performances are also incredible.
Den Of Thieves 2: Pantera directed by Christian Gudecast – I love a good heist movie (who doesn’t?); I loved the first Den Of Thieves and the sequel does not disappoint; saw it in the theatre with my son Callum and it made us very happy.
ALBUMS:
Damien Jurado – “The Horizon Just Laughed”
Jose Gonzales – “In Our Nature” (h/t to my friend Chief for this recommend)
Jessica Pratt – “Here In The Pitch”
PLAYS (Live, In Person)
Gaslighting Is My Love Language written and performed by Fielding Edlow – I saw this at the Whitefire Theatre; Fielding had brought in a portion of the show on a prior Vs. Tuesday night Zoom reading and it was great to see to full show live; it was hilarious and moving and Fielding told it honestly and beautifully.
Appropriate by Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins – our first “Vs. Live at PRT” reading of 2025; a terrific play that Kim Hlavac sponsored; very grateful to read alongside her and the other amazing actors she cast.
Noises Off by Michael Frayn – a Vs. Theatre Club night, live at the Geffen Playhouse; I wrote this blog about it; can’t believe the same playwright also wrote Copenhagen; talk about dexterity!
BOOKS:
What Makes Sammy Run by Budd Schulberg – an absolute page turner about show business that still holds up over 80 years later.
PODCASTS:
“The Movie Crypt” – my friend and actor Matt Lillard was the guest; he tells tons of great stories and is super entertaining.
“Back To One” – my friend and actor Brad Fleischer was the guest; lots of great acting gems in this one.
The Vs. Studio Blog 