Fashion Explained – The Met Gala

The Met Gala, or The Met Ball, is the annual fundraising gala every fashion enthusiast waits for. The funds are raised towards the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. It’s popular for its glamorous looks and the respected figures that attend the event make it the most prestigious fashion event in the world as well as “fashion’s biggest night.” Each year, the event revolves around a specific theme, which sets the tone for the extravagant and avant-garde fashion seen on the red carpet. It happens on the 1st Monday of May.

The Met Gala’s fashion is characterised by extravagance, theatricality, and attention to detail. From intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics, attendees spare no expense in crafting show-stopping looks that captivate audiences and spark digital conversation. Fashion is not just about looking good; it’s about storytelling and pushing the boundaries of creativity. Attendees draw inspiration from art, history, culture, and current events to create looks that are both visually stunning and rich.

Why is it relevant?

The Met Gala red carpet is also a platform for designers to showcase their talent and creativity on a global stage. Custom-made couture gowns, experimental designs, and innovative techniques are celebrated and critiqued by fashion critics and enthusiasts alike, shaping the narrative of fashion for the year ahead. In addition to the fashion on the red carpet, the Met Gala serves as a networking event for the fashion industry. It’s an opportunity for creative collaboration, trend-spotting, and cultural exchange, solidifying the Met Gala’s status as a pinnacle of fashion excellence.

The Met Gala’s impact extends beyond the confines of the museum walls, shaping trends, influencing pop culture, and inspiring future generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts. From gorgeous moments to controversial looks, the Met Gala continues to push the boundaries of fashion and ignite conversations about art, culture, and identity.

The Best Met Gala Looks Since 2005

Michaela Coel, 2023, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”

The 2023 Met Gala had several absurd looks, from Jared Leto to Lil Nas X, but Michaela Coel did not come to kid around. While not exactly on theme, her custom-made Schiaparelli dress deserves attention.

Blake Lively, 2022, “In America: An Anthology of Fashion”

Blake Lively wore a Versace dress, a love letter to New York City. It was inspired by the Statue of Liberty and the extravagant bow unveiled a long blue train.

Zendaya, 2018, “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination”

Did you also expect Zendaya to appear on this list? This for one list, we highlight the time when Zendaya decked up as a reimagined Joan of Arc, made by Atelier Versace. It nailed the 2018 evening’s theme, “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” as Joan of Arc is a famed icon of Catholicism.

Rihanna, 2017, “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between”

For the 2017 theme, Rihanna wore a Comme Des Garçons’ colourful negentropy of a dress. Rihanna has had many iconic looks before but her 2017 look embodied the theme.

Madonna, 2013, “Punk: Chaos to Couture”

The controversial queen herself, Madonna, wore Givenchy Haute Couture to the 2013 Met Gala.

Carey Mulligan, 2012, “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations”

The co-host of the 2012 Met Gala and British actress, Carey Mulligan, wears Prada.

Naomi Campbell, 2011, “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty”

The legendary model and personality, Naomi Campbell, pays tribute to Alexander McQueen.

Blake Lively, 2010, “American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity”

Blake Lively makes it on the list again! She deserves it with her simple but classy 2010 Met Gala look in a Marchesa dress.

Kate Moss, 2009, “Muse: Embodying Fashion”

Who better to embody the muse than Kate Moss? Moss wore Marc Jacobs at the 2009 Met Gala, bringing back the classic glam look.

Taylor Swift, 2008, “Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy”

The pop star sensation Taylor Swift was bejewelled on the red carpet with a Badgley Mischka look.

Cate Blancett, 2007, “Poiret: King of Fashion”

Cate Blancett wore Balenciaga and the look was inspired by the works of Paul Poiret.

Alexander McQueen and Sarah Jessica Parker, 2006, “AngloMania: Tradition and Transgression in British Fashion”

The British designer Alexander McQueen fashioned his and Sarah Jessica Parker’s looks. The duo are unforgettable in the history of The Met Gala.

Selma Blair, 2005, “The House of Chanel”

Selma Blair appropriately wore a gorgeous Chanel dress.

18 Cocktails You Can Make at Home

Cool off this summer with some delicious cocktails! Wind down and relax with any of these easy-to-make drinks. They don’t require a ton of effort and should be available near you. A ton of these can also be made and enjoyed without alcohol for those who are staying sober or don’t like alcohol. These are only some of the easiest cocktails but the possibilities are endless. You can experiment with different flavours to your liking.

Mojito

Juice of 1 lime
1 tsp granulated sugar
Small handful of mint leaves, plus an extra sprig to serve
60 ml white rum soda water, to taste

Step 1: Muddle the lime juice, sugar and mint leaves in a small jug, crushing the mint as you go – you can use the end of a rolling pin for this. Pour into a tall glass and add a handful of ice.

Step 2: Pour over the rum, stirring with a long-handled spoon. Top up with soda water, garnish with mint and serve.

Pinã Colada

120 ml pineapple juice
60 ml white rum
60 ml coconut cream
A wedge of pineapple, to garnish (optional)

Step 1: Pulse all the ingredients along with a handful of ice in a blender until smooth. Pour into a tall glass and garnish as you like.

Aperol Spritz

Ice
100 ml Aperol
150 ml prosecco
Soda, to top up

Step 1: Put a couple of cubes of ice into 2 glasses and add a 50 ml measure of Aperol to each. Divide the prosecco between the glasses and then top up with soda, if you like.

Cranberry Vodka

250 g fresh or frozen cranberries or other berries
1L bottle vodka
175 g caster sugar

Step 1: Prick each cranberry a couple of times with a fork and layer up in a large sterilised Kilner jar with the sugar. Pour over the vodka and leave for 2 weeks, shaking the jar each day.

Step 2: Strain and decant into decorative bottles. Then, seal and label.

Tequila Sunrise

2 tsp grenadine
Ice
50 ml tequila
1 tbsp triple sec
1 large orange, or 2 small ones, juiced
½ lemon, juiced
1 cocktail cherry

Step 1: Pour the grenadine into the base of a tall glass and set aside. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the tequila, triple sec and fruit juices. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold.

Step 2: Add a few ice cubes to the serving glass then carefully double strain the cocktail into it, trying not to disturb the grenadine layer too much. Add more ice, if needed, to fill the glass then garnish with a cherry on a stick or cocktail umbrella.

Passion Fruit Martini

2 ripe passion fruits (they should have a crinkly appearance), halved
60 ml vodka 30ml passion fruit liqueur
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp sugar syrup
Prosecco, to serve

Step 1: Scoop the seeds from one of the passion fruits into the glass of a cocktail shaker, and add the vodka, passion fruit liqueur, lime juice and sugar syrup. Add a handful of ice and shake well, strain into 2 martini glasses, top up with prosecco, then add half a passion fruit to each. Serve immediately.

Woo Woo

50 ml vodka
25 ml peach schnapps
100 ml cranberry juice
A few drops of fresh lime juice
Ice
Wedge of lime

Step 1: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice then add the vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice and a few drops of lime juice. Shake really well then strain into a tumbler with extra ice. Garnish with a wedge of lime.

Cosmopolitan

120 ml vodka
60 ml orange liqueur
60 ml cranberry juice
Juice of 1 lime

Step 1: Stir the ingredients and a little ice together or put them in a cocktail shaker to combine. Strain into two chilled martini glasses.

Watermelon Daquiri

Ice
50 ml white rum
25 ml watermelon liqueur or watermelon-flavoured spirit, such as gin
10 ml lime juice
100 g watermelon (prepared weight), plus a wedge to garnish

Step 1: Put a handful of ice in a blender suitable for crushing ice, along with the rum, watermelon liqueur, lime juice and watermelon flesh. Blitz until just smooth.

Step 2: Fill a tall glass with ice, pour over the daiquiri and garnish with a wedge of watermelon.

White wine sangria

2 bottles of white wine
300 ml ginger wine
80 ml elderflower cordial
4 limes, thinly sliced into rounds
3 peaches, sliced large handful of raspberries
Ice
1 L sparkling water

Step 1: Put all the ingredients (except the ice and water) into two large jugs and put them in the fridge for at least 1hr to chill. Just before serving, top up with the ice and water. Pop a few edible flowers in the jug, if you like.

Buck’s Fizz

100 ml orange juice, freshly squeezed
200 ml chilled champagne

Step 1: First, pour 50ml of the orange juice into each glass.

Step 2: Very slowly top up each glass with 100ml champagne.

Coco Fizz

25 ml coconut rum
50 ml coconut water
Juice of ½ lime
Ice
50 ml prosecco

Step 1: Put the coconut rum, coconut water and lime juice into a cocktail shaker, add ice and shake until the outside of the shaker is icy-cold to the touch. Strain into a chilled coupe glass, top with the Prosecco and serve.

Rum Old-Fashioned

50 ml dark rum
1 tsp sugar syrup
A few dashes of orange bitters
Ice
Strip of orange peel, to garnish

Step 1: Put half the rum, the sugar syrup and bitters in a mixing glass or jug. Add three ice cubes and stir slowly with a mixing spoon until the outside of the glass feels cold. Add the rest of the rum and a few more ice cubes, then stir to just combine.

Step 2: Strain the drink into an ice-filled rocks glass or tumbler and garnish with a strip of orange peel.

Reverse Espresso Martini

30 ml freshly brewed espresso
50 ml vodka
25 ml Irish cream

Step 1: Freeze the espresso in an ice cube tray until frozen solid. Pour the vodka and Irish cream into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Stir together for about 1 min then strain into a tumbler. Put 4-5 coffee ice cubes into the drink to serve.

Moscow Mule

50 ml vodka
Crushed ice
150-200 ml ginger beer
A few dashes of ginger bitters
Sprig of mint (to serve)
A wedge of lime (to serve)

Step 1: Pour the vodka into a metal mug, julep tin or tumbler. Load up ¾ full with crushed ice, then fill to the top with the ginger beer and stir gently to combine. Add a few dashes of ginger bitters. Serve with a sprig of mint to garnish and the lime to squeeze over.

Mimosa

350 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
750 ml bottle of chilled dry Champagne or Prosecco
Orange slices, for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Divide juice between 6 champagne flutes (55-60 ml each), then top each with champagne. Garnish each with a slice of orange if desired.

Gimlet

60 ml Gin
30 ml fresh lime juice
22.5 ml simple syrup
Ice, for shaking
Lime zest and wheel, for garnish

Step 1: Combine gin, simple syrup and lime juice in a shaker. Shake for 10 to 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with lime zest over the top and a lime wheel on the rim.

Negroni

30 ml Campari
1 ml gin
1 ml sweet vermouth
Orange peel, for garnish

Step 1: Fill a measuring glass with ice, then pour Campari, gin, and vermouth. Stir with a bar spoon until chilled through.

Step 2: Strain into a rock glass filled with ice. Garnish with orange peel.

Turning 18: The Best Releases of 2006

Writer’s note: With Exhibit’s 18th anniversary coming up, I thought it would be interesting to see what else is turning 18 with us. Movies are one of the best mediums of storytelling and entertainment. It’s life brought to a screen and some of the best releases were in 2006. I was surprised to see how old and young some of these movies are in reality. Time passes by us in the blink of an eye, doesn’t it?

Krrish (June 23, 2006)

The hit film, Krrish, with its stunning lead, Hrithik Roshan, is unforgettable. The superhero film was a trendsetter in Bollywood with VFX on par with Hollywood at the time of release. The extensive universe of the Krrish franchise, starting from Koi… Mil Gaya (2003), Krrish introduced a legacy of thrilling superhero films.

Box office: ₹126.5 crore

Cars (June 9, 2006)

Life is a highway and so is the lifespan of Cars. The feel-good animated film is one of the most unexpectedly hilarious experiences. Owen Wilson is Lightning McQueen, an arrogant sentient race car who eventually learns about life and friendship.

Box office: $462 million

The Devil Wears Prada (June 30, 2006)

Are we still debating who the real villain of this movie is? The Devil Wears Prada is a deliciously complicated film with Anne Hathaway as our leading lady and Meryl Streep as the titular devil. The movie portrays the boss-employee relationship in a multi-dimensional way and is still iconic today.

Box office: $326.7 million

Phir Hera Pheri (June 9, 2006)

The sequel to the 2000 Hera Pheri holds a candle to its original story. Phir Hero Pheri is the mess we were all hoping and waiting for. The trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal were back to create chaos and navigate through twists and turns.

Box office: ₹69 crore

She’s the Man (March 17, 2006)

This movie puts sophisticated Shakespeare adaptations to the test. She’s the Man features Amanda Bynes and Channing Tatum as our leading couple but not without several obstacles. The movie was inspired by William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and is one of the best modern adaptations in history.

Box office: $57.2 million

Rang De Basanti (January 26, 2006)

Even the name invokes a sense of nostalgia. Rang De Basanti garnered both domestic and international attention for its brilliant storyline and inspiring performance by Amir Khan. The soundtrack by A. R. Rahman was also considered for an Academy Award nomination, an impressive feat for that time.

Box office: ₹97 crore

Lage Raho Munna Bhai (September 1, 2006)

The satirical comedy film was back again with another absurd plot. Lage Raho Munna Bhai is the sequel to its original, Munna Bhai M.B.B.S (2003) and now focuses on Sanjay Dutt posing as a history professor to impress a new love interest instead of a medical student. How would anything go wrong there?

Box office: ₹126.2 crore

Pan’s Labyrinth (October 11, 2006)

The Spanish dark fantasy film by renowned horror director, Guillermo Del Toro, is a visual spectacle. Pan’s Labyrinth mixes horror with fantasy and is set in the summer of 1944 in Spain, following Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) who finds out something life-changing about herself. The movie is considered Del Toro’s magnum opus and received intense praise in many categories.

Box office: $83.9 million

The Pursuit of Happyness (December 15, 2006)

Based on the American businessman Chris Gardner, The Pursuit of Happyness is one of the most emotional films you will experience. Will Smith plays Gardner and received much praise for his performance, with his son, Jaden Smith, playing Gardner’s son.

Box office: $307.1 million

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (August 11, 2006)

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna is a controversial film, receiving mixed reviews for its complex subject matter. Despite this, their ensemble cast performed to their greatest potential and made one of the highest-grossing Hindi-language films in 2006.

Box office: ₹113 crore

Night at the Museum (December 17, 2006)

This fantasy film is equal parts creative as it is hilarious. Night at the Museum follows Larry (Ben Stiller), the new night security officer at the Museum of Natural History, navigating the wild night as the museum exhibits come alive and create complete chaos. The weird but heartwarming dynamic between him and the exhibits is the highlight of the film.

Box office: $579.5 million

The Pink Panther (February 10, 2006)

The Pink Panther is a massively successful detective, comedy series. It’s actually shocking the 2006 reboot The Pink Panther with Steve Martin as Jacques Clouseau isn’t older than 18 years with its outdated and offensive humour. Still, it’s a lighthearted movie with a simple plot so it’s perfect if you don’t want to watch and overthink.

Box office: $164.1 million

Dhoom 2 (November 24, 2006)

The sequel to 2003 Dhoom, Dhoom 2, is the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2006 and one of the most successful Bollywood films. The ensemble cast included Hrithik Roshan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Bipasha Basu and Uday Chopra. It’s a thrilling heist film that brought controversy for its fast-paced and dangerous driving.

Box office: ₹151 crore

Don (October 20, 2006)

Don (also known as Don: The Chase Begins Again) is another memorable film title on this list. This is one of Shah Rukh Khan’s most iconic roles and he left a historical mark on the action-thriller genre. The film won Best Asian Film at the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival.

Box office: ₹106 crore

Step Up (August 11, 2006)

Surprisingly, this film is now turning 18. Though it’s an arguably bad film, Step Up was a box-office success and now has four sequels and a TV series. It’s a fun experience with intense chemistry between Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan.

Box office: $114.2 million

The Omen (June 6, 2006)

Despite being the fifth instalment of The Omen series, The Omen is the remake of the original 1976 film. It’s a classic horror film about a couple adopting an orphan who is the embodiment of the devil and causing tragic events to take place. It’s a must-watch for horror fans.

Box office: $120 million

X-Men: The Last Stand (May 26, 2006)

The third instalment of the X-Men movie adaptations was the most expensive film produced in 2006. X-Men: The Last Stand follows a dark plot around a “mutant cure” that causes serious consequences for mutants and humans alike. The ensemble cast of Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry and many more reprise their roles.

Box office: $460.4 million

Paprika (November 25, 2006)

The legendary director, Satoshi Kon, created a masterpiece of a psychological thriller with Paprika. Animation is one of the best mediums of surrealistic storytelling and Paprika nailed it. The movie was Kon’s final feature film before he died in 2010. The movie does include adult themes so be warned.

Box office: $944,915 (overseas)

May Day: An Extensive History of Change

May Day is celebrated on 1st May every year. Dating back more than a millennium ago, the tradition has a huge history behind it and neither for the same reason observed today. Now it carries the sentiments of the labour movement for workers’ rights in the 19th century with International Workers’ Day. However, when it was first established, it was to welcome the new season and signifies change.

Celtic Britons, or the Celts of Britain, hold May 1st to be the most important day of the year for them. May 1st was when the festival of Beltane was celebrated, a Gaelic holiday that marks the beginning of summertime. The festival was meant to divide the year between light and dark. The tradition of bonfires also symbolised fertility and the return to life worldwide. However, when the Romans took over Britain, the event was extended from April 20th to May 2nd after combining with the festival of Floralia, after the goddess Flora.

Nowadays, on the other hand, May Day has taken on a completely different meaning. International Workers’ Day is a widely celebrated, worldwide event. Labour rights were imperative to recognise, especially during the peak of the Industrial Revolution, and a cause worth fighting for. To this day, labour rights are still evolving and are a continuous struggle where work conditions are completely abysmal.

So how do the original May Day and International Workers’ Day relate to each other?

Honestly, they don’t. It just happens that International Workers’ Day took over and gained more importance. Considering the majority of Europe is the minority in celebrating events like Beltane or Maifeiertag in Germany, Workers’ Day is the more conventional event observed worldwide. Some countries, of course, do not observe this holiday, for example, the United Arab Emirates provides no holiday and Canada instead celebrates it on the first Monday of September. The labour movement grew at the height of the Industrial Revolution, specifically the Second Industrial Revolution in 1870.

What is the Labour Movement?

At the tail end of the Second Industrial Revolution, the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions made it a policy to only keep 8-hour workdays from 1st May 1886 onwards. The hazardous work conditions, leading to the deaths of men, women, and even children, made this reevaluation necessary. An American labour organisation, Knights of Labor, encouraged workers to strike and demonstrate while supporting the new policy. On 1st May 1886, more than 400,000 workers across America went on strike in peaceful protest.

This changed on May 3rd when the protests went from peaceful to violent. Chicago police clashed with workers which led to several deaths and thus, a rally was organised the next day in protest against the police. Both sides lost a lot of people in the coming months. This led to the Haymarket Riot (or the Haymarket Affair or Massacre) in August 1886 where 8 men were convicted and put on trial without evidence for anarchy. However, it’s alleged that the swayed jury were all part of big businesses. 4 of the men were hanged, 1 had committed suicide and the rest 3 were pardoned after 6 years during their 15-year sentence. The group became martyrs, known as the Haymarket Martyrs, and had a rally of over 300,000 people in London in 1890 on May Day.

Status of May Day Today

The importance of May 1st to workers was inevitably accepted by governments. Now, May Day is recognised as International Workers’ Day across 66 countries. In a twist of irony, it is not recognised on 1st May in America where it became largely advocated for. In India, the day is also called “Maharashtra Day” or “Gujarat Day.”

Mark your calendars for this May Day on 1st May 2024!

3 Body Problem – A Bold Hit by Netflix

The era of science fiction is now. Netflix’s recent adaptation of 3 Body Problem, originally written by Liu Cixin, is a science fiction epic with an identity of its own. It intentionally warps your perception of right and wrong, all wrapped up in the cast of complex characters and the brutality of existence. Brought by the Game of Thrones showrunners, their talents only elevated the story’s horror and political thrill.

Visual Grandeur – How 3 Body Problem Immerses the Audience

The cinematography is one of the best assets of 3 Body Problem. With its brilliant visuals, the other world, Trisolaran, was showcased in a stunning but spine-chilling manner. The sense of peace and organisation bleeds into a state of chaos and dread. The series doesn’t shy away from depicting the scientific horrors faced by the San-Ti on their home planet. We see a world ravaged by chaotic weather patterns and gravitational fluctuations, brilliantly visualized through CGI storms and landscapes that seem to defy physics.

Dialogue and Dynamic

In this chaos, there’s also a certain beauty in it. It makes you wonder how different the San-Ti are from us. They look like us but don’t understand us. They strive for a naive, ideal world but are disappointed by our reality. That is where the dialogue comes in. The natural flow and chemistry between the characters is another superpower. However, this dynamic gets switched when communicating with the San-Ti. It’s stunted and the massive miscommunication is the catalyst for the catastrophic events. It quickly becomes a dance of intellect between the players. More than that, 3 Body Problem isn’t afraid to get its hands dirty with complex scientific concepts. The dialogue is a constant dance between the characters, filled with discussions about physics, mathematics, and the nature of reality. While it might start out confusing you with jargon, the events become clear and connected as time goes on.

Jin Cheng and Jack Rooney (John Bradley)

Casting Choices – Did They Do Justice?

The ensemble cast of 3 Body Problem delivers strong performances, breathing life into characters who are forced to grapple with existential anxieties and the weight of potential annihilation. Benedict Wong, as the enigmatic Clarence Shi, brings a captivating intensity to the role, while Eiza Gonzalez delivers a nuanced performance as Augustina Salazar, the brilliant and fierce astrophysicist. Rosalind Chao as the genius Ye Weinjie is the perfect choice to play the terrifyingly determined senior astrophysicist, the mastermind of the past and present. The sole criticism would lie in the division of the personalities of various characters from the novels into the characters made for the TV version made them lose their individuality. For example, the personality and story of Wang Miao, a main character from the novel, was divided between Jin Cheng (Jess Hong) and Salazar’s characters. Many fans of the original trilogy did not favour this decision.

Benedict Wong as Clarence Shi and Liam Cunningham as Thomas Wade

So Is It Worth It?

Despite its minor flaws and the intensity of the gore, 3 Body Problem is a revolutionary concept for science fiction. Liu Cixin’s expansive story deserves more attention and this adaptation served justice. There is a reason why it’s trending on social media currently. From a stunning cast to the depiction of morality, 3 Body Problem is an epic to remember for the ages. The positive reviews speak for themselves and we hope for a Season 2 and more.

The Evolution of Fashion – 18 Fashion Trends Over the Years

Fashion trends evolve constantly, reflecting changes in culture, technology, and societal norms. What was the norm today is not the norm a decade ago. Time changes everything and fashion is the pinnacle of proof. It expresses the individual’s personality and how their freedom of expression also evolved with it.

Flapper Dresses – 1920s

You must have seen those loose thread dresses adorned with fringes, and embellishments some day in your life. Flapper Dresses symbolised the liberation of women during the Roaring Twenties. After women won the right to vote, social change was rapid and came in the form of fashion. The knee-length dresses were considered “scandalous” for those times but symbolised a form of rebellion.

Zoot Suits – 1940s

Popularised by African-American and Latine communities, zoot suits featured oversized jackets with wide lapels, high-waisted, pegged trousers, and exaggerated accessories like wide-brimmed hats. These became a symbol of the Hepcat and Pachuco subcultures. It also became popular with Italian, Filipino and Japanese Americans in the 40s.

New Look – 1950s

Introduced by Christian Dior, the New Look featured full skirts, and nipped-in waists, and emphasised femininity and luxury after the heavy consequences of World War II. The material these garments were made of was a promise to the housewives in the 50s to lessen their burdens.

Mod Fashion – 1960s

Shocked by bold geometric patterns, mini skirts, and shift dresses, mod fashion, coming from the term “modernist”, reflected the youth culture and rebellion of the 1960s. The fashion is still relevant today with several celebrities donning this look well after the 60s.

Hippie Style – 1970s

Inspired by the counterculture movement, hippie fashion featured long, flowing skirts, bell-bottom jeans, tie-dye patterns, and eclectic accessories like beads and headbands. They developed their sense of individuality and style which caused them significant marginalisation.

Disco Fashion – 1970s

Reflecting the glamour of the disco era, disco fashion included sequined dresses, platform shoes, jumpsuits, and bold, metallic fabrics. People gathered in nightclubs to dance under the disco lights and let loose amongst the craze of the 70s. The style suited a range of body styles and shapes, inclusive beyond its time.

Power Suits – 1980s

Power suits featured shoulder pads, tailored blazers, and high-waisted trousers, often in bold colours and patterns. It symbolised women’s empowerment in the workplace and supported breaking gender roles and norms.

Punk Fashion – 1980s

Punk fashion was a rebellion against mainstream culture. The DIY aesthetics, ripped clothing, leather jackets adorned with studs, safety pins, and heavy boots were intimidating yet inspiring. There are many subgenres of punk fashion stemming from different political ideologies and mixing with other fashion styles.

Grunge Style – 1990s

Grunge fashion featured flannel shirts, ripped jeans, combat boots, and a laid-back, unkempt aesthetic. This was popularised by bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden. This style is timeless even today.

Minimalism – 1990s

Inspired by the clean lines and simplicity of Japanese design, minimalist fashion emphasized neutral colours, simple silhouettes, and high-quality fabrics. It applies the idea of removing what doesn’t bring joy to you and keeping what does. This style filters out unnecessary garments. It’s the antithesis of consumerist behaviour.

Streetwear – 2000s

Blurring the lines between high fashion and casual wear, streetwear included graphic t-shirts, hoodies, sneakers, and branded accessories, often influenced by urban culture. It’s significantly more casual than anything else on this list.

Boho Chic – 2000s

Inspired by bohemian and hippie aesthetics, boho chic fashion featured flowy maxi dresses, peasant blouses, floral prints, and layered jewellery. These styles were mostly associated with Mary-Kate Olsen, Kate Moss, and Sienna Miller. This trend was first observed back in the early 1990s and can still be seen worn by people today.

Normcore – 2010s

Normcore embraced simplicity and practicality, featuring basic, unbranded clothing like plain t-shirts, jeans, and sneakers. The average-looking clothing rejected overt trends and was usually worn by people who did not wish to distinguish themselves.

Athleisure – 2010s

Athleisure is a fusion between fashion and fitness. It included activewear like leggings, sports bras, and sneakers worn as everyday clothing, blurring the lines between gym and street style.

Gender Fluid Fashion – 2010s

Breaking down traditional gender norms, gender-fluid fashion embraced androgynous silhouettes, unisex clothing, and non-binary styles. Some would argue that gender-fluid fashion is not a trend but a reality. People will actively choose to wear gender-fluid clothing even if the so-called trend dies out. Moreover, they wore it for years before it rose to prominence.

Sustainable Fashion – 2010s

In response to environmental concerns, sustainable fashion promoted ethical manufacturing practices, and eco-friendly materials, with a focus on durability and longevity. It uses biodegradable materials from natural or recycled fibre. There are no pesticides involved, reducing the carbon footprint created by the brands selling sustainable products.

Logomania – 2010s

Logomania sounds exactly like it is. It is the obvious use of logos over any item of fashion. Characterised by the prominent display of logos and brand names, logomania saw a resurgence in designer logos on clothing and accessories, signalling luxury and status.

Y2K Revival – 2020s

Y2K revival features trends like low-rise jeans, butterfly prints, rhinestone embellishments, and nostalgic nods to the turn of the millennium. These trends were first observed in the 2000s and defined every celebrity’s look on the red carpet. It makes you stand out and the cute accessories are the highlight. It’s back and here to stay after Gen Z has found the aesthetic incredibly flattering.

18 Timeless Songs You Must Listen To

The meaning of timelessness is something that is so good that it cannot be affected by time. Music is a form of artistic expression that has many timeless pieces and we want to highlight which songs are worth the title. Most of these songs have tested the tides of time but you might find some recent songs that are worthy of the title too.

Take On Me – a-ha (1985)

This might be a meme-worthy song now but when you concentrate on the lyrics, ‘Take On Me’ is an emotional masterpiece. The acoustic version is worth every second and elevates the meaning of the song. It’s perfect to serenade a romantic partner.

Stand By Me – Ben E. King (1961)

I’m sure even the words, ‘Stand By Me’, will make you start singing the song. Popularised by the movie of the same name, Ben E. King is respected by many musicians as there are over 400 recorded covers of the song.

Feel Good Inc – Gorillaz (2005)

With one of the most catchy basslines, ‘Feel Good Inc’ does what it sounds like–makes you feel good. Its groovy and relaxed beat has made it very popular and easy to cover for casual musicians.

I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers (1988)

While the song can be repetitive for some people, ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ is a favourite song of sitcoms and alike that love being cheesy. It’s a feel-good song that isn’t complicated.

Wonderwall – Oasis (1995)

It’s almost a rite of passage to be serenaded with ‘Wonderwall’ by a person whose hobby is the guitar. The easy chords make it almost every aspiring guitarist’s first song but Oasis are legends of Brit-pop. ‘Wonderwall’ is unforgettable in the long run.

Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen (1975)

The six-minute song is a legend amongst legends. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has so many parts, that it’s hard to keep track of but still a karaoke favourite. It’s titled as one of the greatest songs of all time and the band’s signature song.

With Or Without You – U2 (1987)

‘With Or Without You’ by U2 is one of their most popular songs as well as the most-covered. It’s intensely romantic and emotional. You might remember it played on the TV series, Friend’s Season 2, Episode 7.

Respect – Aretha Franklin (1967)

While ‘Respect’ was originally written by Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin arranged it and made it her signature song. The two songs are significantly different with Franklin’s becoming a symbol of feminism.

Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper (1984)

This classic ballad will make your heart soar with its tender lyrics. ‘Time After Time’ is a promise to a lover that you will always be there for them.

Boulevard of Broken Dreams – Green Day (2004)

The sombre and bleak lyrics were the anthem of every emo kid out there. ‘Boulevard of Broken Dreams’ is an unforgettable song when you’re feeling particularly lonely.

Spring Day – BTS (2017)

At the start of BTS’ journey to becoming the leading Korean act in the global market, ‘Spring Day’ was an unforgettable song about missing someone, grief and yearning. It covers mental health in a gentle melody.

The Scientist – Coldplay (2002)

‘The Scientist’ is a sorrowful piano ballad about the tragedy of love and breakups. The experimental music video is the highlight of the song as well, with the video in backwards but the speech in forward motion.

Chaiyya Chaiyya – A. R. Rahman (1998)

Featured in the Bollywood film Dil Se…, ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’ is a classic and influential song of Hindi films. The song also gained a cult following internationally.

All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey (1994)

Known for her effortless high notes, ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ by Mariah Carey is an essential Christmas song. It’s arguably the only Christmas song you will ever need. Not a day of December goes by without hearing her voice at least 5 times.

Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin (1971)

‘Stairway to Heaven’ battles for the title of the greatest rock song of all time. The experimental melody, with three sections of different volumes and tempos, makes the song an experience in itself.

Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin – Kishore Kumar and Manna Dey (1975)

‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin’ is the friendship anthem. Performed in the renowned film, Sholay, ‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin’ is one of the most fun songs that has you bursting into song.

Feeling Good – Nina Simone (1964)

Nina Simone is a civil rights activist and singer. Her strong voice is highlighted in ‘Feeling Good’, it’s been trending heavily on Reels so you must have heard it. The song happens to be another with multiple covers, a sign of unending respect.

Take Me to Church – Hozier (2013)

‘Take Me to Church’ is filled with religious terminology that describes a romantic relationship being discriminated against by the church. The soulful performance given by Hozier is impactful and one of the best songs of the 2010s.

18 Anime You Need to Watch

Writer’s note: In my years of watching anime and learning about filmmaking, I become more and more impressed with the creativity and process of animation. Animation provides endless possibilities from colours to storytelling. The impressive visuals leave us in awe and Japan is leading the animation industry. Anime is one of the best entertainment media in the world and now is the best time to get into it.

One Piece (1999 – ongoing)

One Piece might be daunting as it’s currently at 1100 episodes and still ongoing. But this series is guaranteed to be one of the best experiences of your life. Following the 17-year-old Luffy, his one dream is to be the Pirate King and find the mysterious titular treasure of the previous Pirate King, the “One Piece”. He finds crewmates along the way and the adventures are hilarious but while this series looks lighthearted on the outside, it’s a direct mirror of our morally corrupt world and the journey is not easy. It deals with serious topics such as racism, abuse of power, slavery, morally corrupt governments, and so on.

Haikyu!! (2014 – 2020)

Haikyu!! is a sports anime that not only creatively represents volleyball but also teaches the viewer about friendship and compromise. The series follows the team, Karasuno, and the two protagonists, Hinata and Kageyama, as they learn to work together after a bitter encounter but realise their playstyles are compatible. You meet other characters and their dynamics and learn so much about friendship, and how beautiful it can be but how ugly it can get. The anime series has ended but two upcoming movies will wrap up the finale of the manga.

Death Note (2006 – 2007)

A much shorter but impact watch of 37 episodes, Death Note is a classic you cannot miss. It’s arguably one of the best suspense thriller TV series in media and amongst the best in anime history. It is an unforgettable story with unique characters and grave rules that they must follow. The stakes are high for rivals, Light Yagami and L, who constantly try to outsmart one another.

Your Lie in April (2014 – 2015)

Maybe the most devastating anime out there, Your Lie in April is a beautiful romantic series about two teenage musicians who learn freedom and love through their performances together. It’s a short 22-episode anime that will leave you in tears but the story and music will awe you.

Spy x Family (2022 – ongoing)

Spy x Family is a much more recent anime series that took the internet by storm. With a unique plot and clever writing, Spy x Family is a lighthearted watch with memorable characters–Anya, Loid and Yor. The three have strange jobs and abilities–Anya has telepathic powers, Loid is a spy and Yor is an assassin and they are all pretending to be a family due to Loid’s current mission. It’s a recipe for chaos and a wholesome anime.

Jujutsu Kaisen (2020 – ongoing)

There is no doubt that Jujutsu Kaisen has entered the anime world as one of the biggest in the industry. Their iconic characters like Gojo Satoru, Nanami Kento, Geto Suguru, and many more have stolen the hearts of anime fans. The plot and rules of Jujutsu Kaisen might be confusing and dark but the animation style and quirky personalities make it a great watch.

Gintama (2005 – 2021)

Gintama is an extensive watch with 367 episodes but the absurdity and randomness of the plot is worthwhile. The premise is interesting enough but the chaos takes the cake. The characters, especially the main character, Gintoki Sakata, are constantly doing random acts that will catch you off guard but in a funny way. It’s an easy watch that makes you want to binge it.

Bungo Stray Dogs (2016 – ongoing)

Bungo Stray Dogs has a very unique concept and premise. The characters are all based on literary figures in history, be it Japanese, American, British, you name it. More than that, these characters have superpowers based on their real-life counterparts’ works of literature. For example, the famous character, Osamu Dazai, has a power called No Longer Human, based on the book of the same name by the same author. However, what draws you in is the depiction of morality and the value of human life that the anime explores.

Monster (2004 – 2005)

Pretty much on par with Death Note, Monster is a suspense thriller but with one of the most iconic, well-written villains in anime. While the villain’s backstory is pitiful, it is meant to make you even more terrified of his potential for evil. The protagonist, Dr Kenzo Tenma, takes responsibility for putting a stop to the villain, Johan Liebert and we meet several characters affected by his Tenma’s kindness and Liebert’s evil.

Attack on Titan (2013 – 2023)

This is an anime that will mess with your mind. A story about war, loyalty, politics, and morality, Attack on Titan has cemented itself as one of the best anime in history. The plot’s twists and turns will leave you indecisive about which side is right and wrong (the answer is probably neither). The nuances behind every decision are well-written and while the plot is complicated, it also has the best anime characters in history.

My New Boss is Goofy (2023)

My New Boss is Goofy is a short and sweet anime of 12 episodes that will hopefully be renewed for a second season. The anime explores mental health, friendship, office dynamics and power harassment in the Japanese workplace. It’s another easy watch but more importantly, the characters are incredibly kindhearted people, especially the boss in the title, Yuusei Shirosaki. His kindness and clumsiness are the main attraction of the anime but it’s seriously underrated how healing this anime is.

The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. (2016 – 2018)

The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. has an absurd format. Some of the episodes are compilation episodes, cut into 5-minute episodes so while the total is over 100, the anime is actually around 26 episodes. Saiki K. has telepathic abilities and his inner thoughts about the events around him are straightforward and humorous. The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. is yet another lighthearted anime with a funny plot and even funnier characters but the overall story is incredibly wholesome.

Death Parade (2015)

A twisted anime about your fate after death, Death Parade is a thought-provoking anime. People who die are sent to a mysterious bar named Quindecim, run by the lone bartender Decim and his assistant. They are forced to play Death Games to figure out why they ended up there and the result will determine if their souls reincarnate or are lost forever. The anime points out that nobody is truly angelic or truly evil.

Hunter x Hunter (2011 – 2014)

Acclaimed as one of the greatest anime ever, Hunter x Hunter follows the protagonist, Gon Freecss, who learns his “deceased” father is alive and a world-renowned Hunter (who can trace beasts, treasures and rare creatures). Gon aspires to become a Hunter like his father. The main highlight that makes this anime one of the greatest is the character-driven storyline rather than the plot just fitting the characters in.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (2019 – ongoing)

Demon Slayer is an anime with a massive growth in popularity since 2019. The characters are interesting, the story is thrilling and the animation is top-notch. It’s colourful, fluid and a spectacle to watch. It’s especially known for its amazing fight sequences and some funny moments that balance out the anime’s intensity. The series is complicated but easy to get into.

Nana (2006 – 2007)

Nana has a devastating take on the intricacies of human relationships. It’s an important binge-watch for people who want a realistic anime. Named after the two protagonists, Nana Osaki and Nana Komatsu, it follows the lives of the roommates who grow close, despite being polar opposites. Their relationship gets more complicated when adult life and decisions get in the way.

Terror in Resonance (2014)

Terror in Resonance or Zankyou no Teroru is a complex anime. While the main criticism lies in the structure of the show, the character designs, music, and the thrill of the chase are amongst the best. It handles moral ambiguity and anti-heroism with a grace never seen before. The duo of Twelve and Nine are iconic for their strong personalities and well-written backstories.

Cowboy Bebop (1998 – 1999)

A classic amongst legends of anime, Cowboy Bebop is a neo-noir space Western anime. It’s a cool, intelligent series with witty dialogue and thrilling action sequences. The jazz and other cultural references make it even richer. It’s also one of those rare anime series where the English dubbing is impressive and can be watched without losing immersion.

18 Most Anticipated Releases in 2024

Writer’s note: This list of releases will include movies and TV series alike that you definitely should not miss. I have observed most of these are sequels, remakes or spin-offs of huge franchises but regardless, they are all promising. Let’s look at what’s hot in 2024.

Joker: Folie à Deux (4 October 2024)

Undoubtedly, Joker: Folie à Deux is the most anticipated movie release in 2024. With the massive success of 2019’s Joker, people are excited to see Lady Gaga’s performance as the new Harley Quinn. We have no doubt Joaquin Phoenix, reprising his role as The Joker, will give a fantastic performance for the ages. Notably, the style of Folie à Deux in trailers so far mimics the aesthetic of La La Land (2016).

Deadpool & Wolverine (26 July 2024)

What’s better than one iconic superhero? Two iconic superheroes. Deadpool and Wolverine join forces in Deadpool & Wolverine. The premise we know so far is that the Time Variance Authority (TVA) from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) will capture Deadpool, played by Ryan Reynolds, to change the history of the MCU. Hugh Jackman reprises his role as Wolverine.

Fly Me to the Moon (12 July 2024)

Fly Me to the Moon stars Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum in a rom-com based during the Cold War and the 1960s Space Race. A relationship between the two develops during their collaboration to fix NASA’s public image.

Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar (1 May 2024)

Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, or Heeramandi, is a Hindi-language period drama TV series. The series follows the Indian Independence Movement and the lives of tawaifs (successful female courtesans) in the red-light district of Heera Mandi, Lahore. It was created by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, known for his other period movies like Bajirao Mastani (2015) and Padmaavat (2018).

The Tattooist of Auschwitz (2 May 2024)

The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a historical drama based on the 2018 novel of the same name by Heather Morris. It tells the real-life experience of the Holocaust survivor, Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jewish prisoner in the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. He was tasked with tattooing his fellow prisoners’ arms with identification numbers. The Tattooist of Auschwitz highlights how he found love along the way but also the immense trauma of genocide and the survivor’s guilt he felt.

Speak No Evil (13 September 2024)

Blumhouse Productions will release yet another horror film in 2024. Starring James McAvoy, Speak No Evil shows how a dream vacation in a gorgeous country house can turn into a nightmare. This is a remake of the 2022 Danish film of the same name. You are in for a treat if it’s anything like the original or improves on it.

Dune: The Prophecy (Late 2024)

Dune: The Prophecy or Dune: Prophecy is an upcoming TV series that prequels the 2021 film Dune by 10,000 years. The TV series will focus solely on the origins of the Bene Gesserit, a sisterhood of powerful women who mentally and physically train themselves to gain superhuman abilities. There is no release date announced yet.

Mother of the Bride (9 May 2024)

Mother of the Bride is an upcoming rom-com with Brooke Shields and Miranda Cosgrove as the mother-daughter duo. Cosgrove’s character, Emma, returns home to announce she will be getting married in a month. Upon meeting the groom’s family, the mother finds out the groom’s dad is the person who broke her heart years ago. Where will this rom-com go?

The Acolyte (4 June 2024)

Another expansion of the Star Wars franchise, The Acolyte, also known as Star Wars: The Acolyte, will follow a Jedi investigation of multiple crimes at the end of the High Republic era and before the Star Wars films. The TV series stars notable actors like Amandla Stenberg (Bodies Bodies Bodies, Rue from the Hunger Games series), Lee Jung-Jae (Squid Game), and Manny Jacinto (The Good Place).

Moana 2 (27 November 2024)

The sequel to the 2016 Moana, Moana 2 will follow the titular character receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors. Similar to the first, Moana will again embark on a dangerous journey through the seas of Oceania. Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprise their roles.

All We Imagine as Light (Cannes, May 2024)

Directed by Payal Kapadia, we don’t know much about the plot and journey of All We Imagine as Light. The summary revealed before its debut at the Cannes Film Festival implies that the main characters will go through an intense and passionate journey to a beach town after their subsequent plot points get complicated. Kapadia’s film will be the first Indian film in 30 years to enter the main competition at Cannes.

When Life Gives You Tangerines (2024)

With an unknown release date, When Life Gives You Tangerines (also known as Thank You for Your Hard Work and You Have Done Well) is a Netflix distribution South Korean TV series. Featuring the famous IU (Lee Ji-Eun) and Park Bo-Geum, it’s a slice-of-life series that follows two very bright and spirited individuals through an adventure.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (6 September 2024)

A long-anticipated sequel to the 1988 Beetlejuice, the horror comedy movie, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, will feature familiar faces and new characters. Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara are back again for another Beetlejuice instalment with Jenna Ortega and Willem Dafoe in the lineup. Let’s hope Tim Burton can live up to the first.

A Quiet Place: Day One (28 June, 2024)

A Quiet Place: Day One is the origin and spin-off story of the A Quiet Place series. It will hopefully answer the mystery behind how everything in A Quiet Place happened. The new film features Lupita Nyong’o and Joseph Quinn.

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (13 December 2024)

This is a call for all The Lord of the Rings fans. The wait is over with The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, set 261 years before The Lord of the Rings movies and 200 years before The Hobbit. The movie will tell the story of the legendary King of Rohan, Helm Hammerhand, played by Brian Cox, and how he defended his kingdom against the Dunlendings.

Inside Out 2 (14 June 2024)

This year is filled with sequels. Bringing you yet another, Inside Out 2 is the sequel to the 2015 Inside Out by Disney. Now that the protagonist, Riley, is 16 years old and feeling new emotions, Maya Hawke enters the picture as the voice actress for the personified emotion of Anxiety. The film involved lots of care towards representing teenagers’ mental health as they consulted with teenage girls on areas they could improve the film before the final version.

The Crow (23 August 2024)

The Crow is the fifth instalment of The Crow series as well as the remake of the original film (1994). It combines the weird and the wonderful within the horror genre as Bill Skarsgård, playing Eric Draven / The Crow, will take the reigns as the titular protagonist.

Megalopolis (17 May 2024)

With an enticing plot, Megalopolis features a cast of talented actors–Adam Driver, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Giancarlo Esposito most notably. The epic sci-fi film depicts a New York-esque metropolis decaying due to an accident and Driver’s character, Caeser, is seeking to rebuild it against the mayor’s desires.

The Oscar Collection – 18 Oscar-Winning Movies You Must Watch Today

My Fair Lady (1964)

The acclaimed musical drama film, My Fair Lady, deserved all the awards it received. Starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison, the performances were perfect in every aspect and the songs are catchy. The only gripe was Audrey Hepburn’s songs were dubbed over and gained a lot of criticism at the time.

Total Academy Awards: 8

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

While it might be absurd to pick out one movie of a trilogy that is so extensive and connected, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King deserves the spotlight. The extraordinary performance and action made the film win all of their nominations.

Total Academy Awards: 11

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

A24’s most experimental and overwhelming film, Everything Everywhere All at Once swept the box office at $143.4 million and won several other awards. Michelle Yeoh’s performance was one for the ages and her chemistry with Stephanie Hsu and Ke Huy Quan was outstanding. The movie will make you laugh, cry, and cheer at the same time.

Total Academy Awards: 7

Forrest Gump (1994)

Who still quotes “Run, Forrest, run!” whenever you see a friend or someone else running? Forrest Gump made us cry our eyes out at the heartfelt scenes but it is argued that, if it were released today, we may not feel the same. The particular way Forrest Gump is portrayed by Tom Hanks is questionable. However, it’s still an inspiring movie worth watching.

Total Academy Awards: 6

Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

Dev Patel killed it in his debut film as Jamal Malik. Slumdog Millionaire opened the eyes of people around the world towards the state of poverty and its consequences in India. However, the Indian audience found the film more offensive and enforcing stereotypes.

Total Academy Awards: 8

Moonlight (2016)

We can still feel the aftershocks of the impact of Moonlight’s story as well as their sweep at the Oscars. It explores the life of Chiron in three stages, all played by 3 different actors. It’s an intense yet beautiful film and a realistic depiction of the cultures represented. It has been named one of the best films of the 21st century and of all time.

Total Academy Awards: 3

Schindler’s List (1993)

The tragic Holocaust film revolves around the real-life figure Oskar Schindler (portrayed by Liam Neeson) and how he saved more than 1,000 Jewish people, most of them of Polish origin, by employing them in his factory. It is a must for those interested in Holocaust history.

Total Academy Awards: 7

The Last Emperor (1987)

The Last Emperor is a biographical film that tells the life of Puyi (John Lone), the final Emperor of China. The epic film has a booming soundtrack by Ryuichi Sakamoto and David Byrne. However, the film’s history accuracy was questioned.

Total Academy Awards: 9 (all nominations)

West Side Story (1961)

A classic romance musical about star-crossed lovers, West Side Story is still garnering adaptations. Although nobody could ever top Rita Moreno’s performance as Anita, it’s exciting to musicals being revived. The story of Maria and Tony is a tale as old as time and its cultural significance in the musical industry remains strong.

Total Academy Awards: 10

Parasite (2019)

Parasite is a South Korean dark comedy, and thriller film around the themes of social class, wealth disparity and inequality. The brilliance behind every aspect of the film’s creation and characterisation will leave you in awe. It’s also the first non-English language film to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards and the first South Korean entry.

Total Academy Awards: 4

Avatar (2009)

With its expansion in more recent years, Avatar is one of the highest-grossing films to win an Oscar. The visual effects and worldbuilding were the best at the time of release and still hold up to this day. It can be a bit dragged out but the action and anticipation of the result are worth it. Not to mention, Zoe Saldana does an incredible job at portraying Neytiri with the motion capture tech back then.

Total Academy Awards: 3

12 Years a Slave (2013)

Based on the 1853 slave memoir by Solomon Northup, 12 Years a Slave recalls the story of the author’s experience after being kidnapped in 1841 and sold into slavery. The actor for Solomon Northup, Chiwetel Ejiofor, won a BAFTA Award for his performance. Doing justice to the brutal journey Northup had been through must have been quite the feat.

Total Academy Awards: 3

Oppenheimer (2023)

This had to be included on the list. Oppenheimer was the biggest film of 2023 and for all the right reasons. This is arguably the best work by Christopher Nolan and Cillian Murphy nailed his performance. The movie is garnering criticism from Japan for its incompetence in expressing remorse towards the victims of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings of 1945.

Total Academy Awards: 7

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

The Silence of the Lambs is the only horror film, to date, to receive Best Picture. The iconic performance by Anthony Hopkins as Dr Hannibal Lecter and Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling cemented their names in the horror genre. Hopkins’ ability to bring Lecter’s menacing and intuitive nature to life is well-respected amongst horror fans.

Total Academy Awards: 5 (All major categories)

Nomadland (2020)

The authenticity of Nomadland shook people to their core. A poetic commentary on lives affected by the economic recession, the film portrays the lives of nomads realistically and genuinely. The film also features some real-life nomads as fictional versions of themselves, namely–Charlene Swankie, Linda May, and Bob Wells. Chloé Zhao is also the first Asian woman and second woman to win Best Director.

Total Academy Awards: 3

The Sound of Music (1965)

The Sound of Music is a fictional retelling of Maria von Trapp’s introduction to the Trapp Family as a governess to the children and her eventual marriage to Georg von Trapp. It’s an emotional journey with cheesy tones and unforgettable music sung to this day.

Total Academy Awards: 5

Ex Machina (2014)

The science fiction film has cemented its influence on the discourse around androids and AI. Ex Machina follows Nathan Bateman, played by Oscar Isaac, who invites a programmer to administer the Turing Test to their prototype humanoid robot. I’m sure you can guess the rest. It shows the intricacies of the Turing Test and the deadliness behind humanoid tech.

Total Academy Awards: 1

Life of Pi

Filmed in 3 different locations, Life of Pi depicts the intriguing journey of Pi Patel as he navigates the seas after surviving a shipwreck with an untamed Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. It delivers a powerful message and has a powerful quote you will never forget, said by the adult version of Pi (Irrfan Khan): “I suppose in the end, the whole of life becomes an act of letting go, but what always hurts the most is not taking a moment to say goodbye.”

Total Academy Awards: 4