In addition to recapping my end of year favorites (films, plays, books, albums, etc.) I thought for 2025, I’d share each month. Without further adieu and in no particular order, here are some February faves…
FILMS:
Aftersun directed by Charlotte Wells – two knockout, naturalistic performances; the director’s shooting style makes it feel super intimate; like we’re eavesdropping on something very private and real and personal.
Somebody Up There Likes Me directed by Robert Wise – early Paul Newman film that I wanted to see after it was mentioned in Ethan Hawke’s phenomenal documentary about Newman and Joanne Woodward, The Last Movie Star; Newman as Rocky Graziano is great, as is the rest of the ensemble.
Gattaca directed by Andrew Niccol – Late 90’s film that I somehow overlooked until recently (thank you Criterion Collection); dynamite film that delivers on all levels; I wrote this blog post about it.
PLAYS (Live, In Person):
Sam & Lizzie by Emily Kaczmarek – Our second Vs. Live at PRT reading this year; this fantastic two-hander calls for tour de force performances; an actor’s dream I would think, to play either of these parts.
Sonnets From Suburbia written and performed by Penny Peyser – A total passion project by my friend Penny (years in the doing); she’s toured it at various festivals including Fringe, written two books (with a third on the way) and made tons of Sonnet videos; so glad I got to catch it live; I loved it and laughed throughout; you can check out all her great work here.
The Seagull by Anton Chekhov – I’ve never seen this masterpiece (only read it) and was so glad my friend and great Chekhov scholar/teacher, Bruce Katzman, directed this production at the Odyssey Theatre; first rate production design (sound added so much) and some beautiful acting moments; Nina’s monologue towards the end where she says “I’m a seagull. No, no, that’s not it.” still haunts me.
ALBUMS:
Faye Webster – “Underdressed at the Symphony”
CocoRosie – “La Maison de Mon Reve”
The Dodos – “Beware of the Maniacs”
ARTICLES:
This great NYT article about Hank Azaria’s crazy good voice over skills.
Another great NYT article about George Clooney making his Broadway debut.
“Heres’ How I’m Preparing For The Next Four Years” by Ryan Holiday.
The Vs. Studio Blog 