press play
stories that keep you pressing play
Press Play explores the writing that captivates us-the songs we can't stop singing, the shows we watch again and again, the films that become instant classics. Film, TV, Podcasts, Albums- no medium is off limits because good writing never remains just on the page.
The Rise and Fall of Love Island
The year is 2024 and the internet is exploding with clips from a little known reality show called Love Island. Interested parties download Peacock to find that there are not 8 or 10 episodes to catch up on, but nearly 30— shows uploaded almost daily with an hour of non-stop relationship drama featuring some of the most beautiful people you’ve ever seen. You’re compelled to watch nightly, to catch the plays and antics before they disseminate across social media like a nightly sports recap. Add to that a setting worthy of any beach read and it’s easy to see why the show is so addictive.
One Year Removed Sinners Still Strikes a Cord
On its face, Sinners seems to be a simple story of a family trying to reach an elusive dream, thwarted by mythical, evil forces. However the layers of story and performance are so intricate, the movie requires multiple watches to even attempt to capture its meanings. A year later, I feel I still may not do it justice.
The Highs and Lows of Highest to Lowest
Spike Lee’s newest film Highest to Lowest, starring the inimitable Denzel Washington, came to streaming via Apple TV this weekend and I, for one, was excited to sit with this film once more. When I saw it in theaters a few weeks back I was in awe of the soundscape, the beautiful shots and creative settings. But all of that came second to the plot, which was as rich, varied and fast paced as the jazz music that served as the soundtrack for much of the film.
The Case for Revisionist History
The second season of Buccaneers, Apple TV’s period drama following five young ladies of marriageable age just ended its beautifully tailored, adulterous, roller coaster of drama and every single moment of it was worth the watch, to say the least.
Why “Forever” is the love story we’ve always needed
Mara Brock Akil’s Forever is the love story we’ve always needed!
Ginny and Georgia Got Me Good
Four hours, Forty-four minutes and thirty-three seconds. That’s how long Season 3 of Netflix’s hit drama Ginny and Georgia took to snatch the seat right out from under me (my dramatic way of saying I’m floored).