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Sweet Nostalgia – Cartoons Which Shaped A Generation

We would return from school around 3 PM in the afternoon having only two hours to ourselves before running for tuition at 5 PM. The weak shoulders of my younger self surely grew weary under the weight of my school and tuition bag but there was one thing which kept me going – watching television. Sure, there are kids who play cricket, and some play musical instruments. But my indulgence of choice was always watching the television, especially cartoons, and why wouldn’t it be? The ‘90s was undoubtedly the golden era for animation.

Animation left a great mark on the hearts and minds of a generation. The ‘90s is when globalization and modernization of the Indian culture incepted which led to a diverse range of animated shows making their way to the country. Here’s a trip down memory lane where we chart the course of all the animated shows which impacted our childhood.

SCOOBY DOO

I was too innocent to realize back in the day that Shaggy was probably a big-time stoner! Scooby Doo- the classic animation show has stood the test of time and still reigns supreme when it comes to horror comedy. The show revolved around the adventures of four teenagers and a talking dog as they solve mysteries. “Scooby-Doo, where are you?” is still something I catch myself vibing on from time to time. There are many infamous reboots and rehashes of the show with Mindy Kaling’s ‘Velma’ being the latest offender, but there is nothing as entertaining as the classic show.

JOHNNY BRAVO

Sometimes I do wonder if my relentless and delusional confidence comes from watching Johnny Bravo as a kid. I also think that Johnny Bravo is a role model for many self absorbed men we see in our lives. Jokes apart, his comedy antics and a way to charm women allowed a rather narcissistic character to be loved universally. Only if Johnny Bravo hit the leg day, we would have fewer gym freaks with bulging chests and chicken legs.

POWERPUFF GIRLS

Toxic masculinity was never something I could follow or entertain as I grew up watching Powerpuff Girls which taught me how women can kick ass! The show featured three superpowered sisters named Blossom, Buttercup, and Bubbles who worked together to fight the supervillains in their hometown. Mojo Jojo still stands tall as one of the most maniacal characters ever put into animation.

POPEYE

Popeye – The Sailor Man was the Spinach-munching character who made his way into the hearts of kids with his charm. Even parents loved the character as he would promote eating green vegetables. The show revolved around Popeye’s battles against his arc nemesis Blutto as they fought for love of Olive. It had some out-of-the-box action sequences with Blutto always coming up with ways to tackle Popeye, only to get trashed by Popeye once he’s had his green edible!

TOM & JERRY

It is actually sad to see that the younger generation does not love or have even watched Tom & Jerry as much as my generation did. A literal game of cat and mouse which subliminally taught us life – Fight or lose! The classic slapstick humour of this series allowed kids to experience hysterical laughter, something no other series in my opinion has ever been able to capture.

I hope reading through all the cartoon shows from the past has allowed you to reminisce about your childhood. Sure, I’ve missed out on some major shows like Pokemon, Shinchan, Doraemon, and even Ninja Hattori but that does not mean you cannot revisit them yourself. Go, indulge in some of the cartoons from your past right now!

Changing Landscape : The Television Revolution

The 1980s and 1990s were transformative decades for India, marked by significant socio-economic and cultural changes. One of the most influential factors contributing to this transformation was the Television Revolution. The advent of television during this period had a profound impact on Indian society, ushering in a new era of communication, entertainment, and information dissemination.

TELEVISION PIONEERS:

In the early 1980s, Doordarshan, India’s state-owned television network, was the primary source of television content. With just a handful of channels and limited programming, it played a vital role in shaping the nation’s collective consciousness. Iconic shows like “Ramayan” and “Mahabharat” captivated millions, making Sunday mornings a ritual for Indian families. These programs not only entertained but also strengthened the cultural and religious bonds among diverse communities.

PRIVATE TELEVISION CHANNELS:

The late 1980s and early 1990s witnessed the emergence of private television channels, a watershed moment in Indian television history. Channels like Zee TV, Star TV, and later Sony Entertainment Television introduced a new dimension to entertainment. They diversified content, offering a wide range of shows, from family dramas to game shows, news programs, and movies. This expansion not only increased the variety of programming but also generated economic opportunities, spurring growth in the entertainment industry.

INFORMATION REVOLUTION:

Television also played a pivotal role in disseminating information to a vast and diverse population. The evening news on Doordarshan became a trusted source of information. During the 1990s, the opening up of the Indian economy led to a proliferation of news channels, such as NDTV and Aaj Tak. These channels made the news more accessible, with 24-hour coverage and real-time reporting, bringing national and international events directly into Indian living rooms.

CULTURAL IMPACT:

Television became a mirror to Indian society, reflecting its aspirations, challenges, and transformations. Iconic shows like “Circus,” “Hum Log,” and “Buniyaad” addressed societal issues and contributed to social awareness. Moreover, television influenced fashion, popular culture, and even language. Phrases from popular shows, like “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi” and “Kaun Banega Crorepati,” became part of everyday conversations.

However, the television revolution was not without its challenges. Critics argued that excessive commercialization and sensationalism in news programming eroded journalistic integrity. The influx of soap operas often centered on regressive themes, leading to debates about the influence of television on societal values.

The television revolution of the ‘80s and 90s dramatically transformed India. It brought entertainment, information, and economic opportunities to a rapidly evolving society. Television became an integral part of Indian life, influencing culture, economics, and politics. As we look back on these decades, it’s evident that the Television Revolution played a pivotal role in shaping the India we know today.

Barbenheimer: How Two Blockbusters Revived Cinema

Being Indian film fanatics, it is common for us to witness two big films going head to head against each other at the box office. It was just recently when two tentpole blockbuster films, Gadar 2 and Oh My God 2 clashed at the box office with both emerging as successes. However, this phenomenon is quite a rarity in the West. Major Hollywood studios do not shy away from shuffling release dates to avoid clashing with other major films. As a result, audiences are yet to witness both DC and Marvel Studios releasing their major films on the same day. While DC and Marvel are juggernaut IPs which generate billions in revenue, studios do not generally pitch even their non-superhero blockbusters against each other. Well, that was until July 2023 when the landscape of blockbuster cinema was changed forever with Greta Gerwig’s Barbie and Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer!

The summer of 2023 at the cinema was a lacklustre season where films tanked left and right. Major blockbuster franchise films failed to impress the audiences. Be it Vin Diesel’s family affair with Fast X, DC’s self-proclaimed cinematic pinnacle The Flash, or Harrison Ford’s return as the iconic Indiana Jones, nothing made a major mark at the domestic box office. To save grace, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 and Across the Spider-Verse did perform well at the box office saving Hollywood from a total downfall. However, nobody expected the storm which was brewing up in the form of Oppenheimer and Barbie.

Nolan’s highly anticipated biopic of Robert J Oppenheimer was a topic of interest amongst moviegoers ever since its announcement. To add fuel to the fire, the news of the director blowing up actual bombs to capture the true essence of an atomic explosion took the hype of the film to the next level.

On the other hand, we had pop-culture darlings Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling taking over the roles of Barbie and Ken. The first teaser of Barbie recreated the iconic opening scene from 2001:A Space Odyssey which intrigued audience members. The teaser was followed by a peppy trailer and a massive promotional campaign where it felt like the entire USA was painted pink.

The equal anticipation around these films coined the term ‘Barbenheimer’

Whenever two films release on the same day, audiences are usually divided between the two. It is always “Which one will you watch?” and never “Which one will you watch first?” which was the case for Barbie and Oppenheimer. It was a celebration for true cine fans for whom July 21st became the day of the ‘Barbenheimer’ double feature. I and many film-loving people like me spend their entire day at the cinema watching the two films back to back.

Barbenheimer was all over the internet with fans celebrating Barbie wearing pink and having a change of clothes to a black outfit and walking straight in to watch Oppenheimer. Both films were loved by critics and audiences alike which led to box office history.

The opening weekends of Barbie and Oppenheimer collectively brought in $244.5 million. While Barbie brought in a massive $162 million, Oppenheimer scored $82.5 million. This was the first time since the pandemic that the box office witnessed such humongous numbers at the domestic level. At the time of writing, Barbie stands at $1 billion at the global box office, whereas, Oppenheimer stands at $600 million.

Barbie has gone on to create history at the box office making Greta Gerwig the first woman to have a sole directing credit on a billion-dollar film. On the other hand, Christopher Nolan successfully managed to depict the horrors humans are capable of causing in a twisted tale which was widely accepted around the world. India showed more love to Oppenheimer than Barbie where the film has garnered a massive 117 crore box office at the time of writing. If films like Barbie and Oppenheimer continue to shine at the box office, then there won’t be any doubts about the cinema business going anywhere!

How AI & Deepfakes are ruining entertainment

Lights, camera, deepfakes! Hollywood, the epitome of glitz and glamour, is no stranger to pushing boundaries and embracing technological advancements. As AI and deepfake technology continue to evolve at a breakneck pace, the entertainment industry finds itself at a crossroads of excitement and trepidation. Over the past few years, fans of Hollywood films have been subjected to some visual scrutiny. It was The Mandalorian’s season 2 finale which introduced an AI-generated young Luke Skywalker who looked like he was made out of rubber. Just recently, watching The Flash in the cinemas was yet another painful experience due to the jarring VFX effects which were later revealed to be generated and enhanced with the contribution of AI. Let’s embark on a whimsical exploration of the potential negative impacts of AI and deep fakes on Hollywood, where reality and fiction dance a delicate tango.

The Uncanny Valley of Illusions

Deepfake technology, with its ability to seamlessly replace one face with another, offers limitless possibilities for storytelling. But what happens when we can no longer trust our eyes? Picture an audience bewildered, desperately trying to distinguish between a genuine actor and a hyper-realistic AI-generated doppelgänger. We’ve already had glimpses of this phenomenon when Hollywood flirted with deep fakes in films like “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” where the late Peter Cushing was digitally resurrected as Grand Moff Tarkin. While the visual effects were impressive, it left us pondering, “Was that truly Peter Cushing, or just an impeccably crafted digital resurrection?” Rogue One’s implementation of AI to recreate human characters opened a can of worms in Hollywood. In my opinion, recreating Christopher Reeves’ Superman with the help of AI for the finale sequence in The Flash was inhuman, as the actor passed away long back. The line between the real and the virtual is becoming blurred, treading dangerously close to the dreaded ‘uncanny valley.’

The Rise of AI Directors

Imagine a future where a robot director, clad in a bowtie and wielding a pocket protector, calls the shots in a Hollywood boardroom. Armed with sophisticated algorithms and an encyclopedic knowledge of film history, this artificial auteur analyzes audience preferences and calculates the perfect formula for blockbuster success. Who needs human intuition when a machine can predict it all? As AI-powered filmmakers emerge, we may find ourselves questioning the very essence of auteurship. Will we witness an Oscar-winning film directed by a machine, with acceptance speeches consisting of lines of binary code? While the thought may be met with a mix of humour and scepticism, it raises intriguing questions about the convergence of creativity and artificial intelligence.

A Deepfake Renaissance

The allure of deep fakes goes beyond mere facial manipulation. With AI mastering the art of mimicking an actor’s voice, performances can be fabricated entirely. Imagine an AI algorithm breathing life into Marlon Brando’s iconic voice, delivering new lines that the virtual Brando himself improvises. Suddenly, the entertainment industry is flooded with beloved actors who never age, never retire, and whose performances can be resurrected long after they’ve left the stage. While the concept is undeniably fascinating, it also raises concerns about the boundaries between homage and identity theft, blurring the line between authenticity and deception. Will we find ourselves in a world where film historians debate whether a specific performance was by the real Al Pacino or his AI-generated counterpart?

Stunt Doubles Out of Work

Action-packed movies have traditionally relied on fearless stunt performers to bring jaw-dropping sequences to life. However, with AI and motion-capture technology advancements, we may witness the rise of digital daredevils. Envision a world where Tom Cruise’s digital alter ego defies gravity without breaking a sweat, leaving the real Tom Cruise comfortably perched on a green-screened sofa, sipping a virtual piña colada. While it may save lives and production costs, it risks turning Hollywood into a realm where danger is pixelated, and the adrenaline of real stunts becomes a distant memory. Are we ready for a world where the only risk involved is a computer crashing mid-action sequence, resulting in a catastrophic outbreak of virtual chaos?

As AI and deep fake technology continue to evolve, their impact on Hollywood and the entertainment industry cannot be ignored. From the blurred lines of reality to the potential replacement of human creativity, the quirky perils of this new era invite both excitement and unease. While we might chuckle at the thought of an AI director or marvel at digital actors defying the laws of physics, it is crucial to reflect on the delicate balance between innovation and preserving the human touch. In this brave new world, we can utilize AI and deep fake technology as valuable tools without sacrificing the essence of the art form that has captivated audiences for over a century.

Tech Inspired by Back To The Future Series: Embracing The Eccentric

Marty McFly and Dr Emmett Brown have a special place in my heart as their quirky adventures paved the way for my unhealthy obsession with sci-fi films! Right now, we embark on a whimsical journey inspired by the beloved Back to the Future film series. So strap on your hoverboards, fasten your flux capacitors and get ready to explore the quirky and humorous tech concepts that tickled our imaginations in those iconic movies.

Time Travel Technology – The Flux Capacitor:

Back to the Future taught us that time travel is a wibbly-wobbly, timey-wimey affair. While we’re still waiting for our very own flux capacitors, this movie franchise reminded us to embrace the possibilities of the future. So, let’s raise a glass of plutonium-infused punch to the dreamers and inventors tirelessly working to bring time travel from the silver screen to our reality. Avengers: Endgame disses the linear time travel method shown in Back to the Future films but the concept is undoubtedly more interesting than the one consisting of multiple timelines. If there’s any way where I can mess up with timelines by going back in time, then my sinister ass will definitely do it!

Hoverboards – Chasing the Future:

Who could forget the exhilarating sight of Marty McFly gracefully gliding on his trusty hoverboard? While we’re not quite hovering around town just yet, the quest for levitating transportation continues. In the spirit of Back to the Future, let’s keep our eyes on the horizon and our hopes high for a day when hoverboards become an everyday mode of transportation. Until then, remember to stay balanced, both on your board and in life!

Self-Lacing Shoes – Stepping into Tomorrow:

The concept of self-lacing shoes may have seemed far-fetched in the ’80s, but thanks to Back to the Future, we caught a glimpse of the future of footwear. While we may not have shoes that automatically adjust to our feet with the precision of the Nike MAGs, the film’s legacy has inspired shoe companies to explore innovative technologies in footwear. Lace up your sneakers and keep an eye out for that moment when you slip into a pair of self-lacing kicks and feel like a true time-travelling hero.

High-Tech Wearables – Fashion Forward:

From Marty’s self-drying jacket to Doc Brown’s impressive headgear, Back to the Future taught us that fashion and technology can coexist in wonderfully bizarre ways. While our clothes may not yet dry themselves or predict weather patterns, the film series serves as a reminder that wearable technology has the potential to revolutionize our lives. So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself wearing a smart jacket that keeps you warm in the winter and doubles as a jukebox, playing Huey Lewis and the News on demand.

Jiggawatt Power – The Energy of Tomorrow:

In the Back to the Future trilogy, Doc Brown needed a whopping 1.21 gigawatts of power to send the DeLorean hurtling through time. While we may not have access to the jiggawatts just yet, this serves as a reminder that we should continue pushing the boundaries of clean and sustainable energy sources. Let’s harness the power of lightning, convert the garbage into fuel, and work towards a future where our energy needs are met with a touch of scientific magic.

I am reminded that innovation is an adventure that often defies logic and reason as end this article based on my most beloved film series. These films taught us to embrace the quirky, the impossible, and the fantastical aspects of technology. So, fellow time-travellers, let’s channel our inner Doc Brown, fire up our imaginations, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Remember, the future is what we make it, so let’s make it!

From VHS to Streaming: How Technology Changed Home Entertainment

If you ask me, home entertainment is one of the biggest blessings humanity has given itself. Sure, there is no competition when it comes to going to the theatres to watch a film in a dark room surrounded by popping Dolby Sound but none of us can take the time out to go every weekend. The answer to the time-consuming process of travelling to the cinemas, watching a film and coming back is home entertainment. Today, we have thousands of films at our disposal to watch on streaming platforms which leaves us confused as to which one to choose.

A film released in the theatres is guaranteed to launch on some or the other streaming platforms in just a few weeks which has killed the exclusivity of the cinema-going experience overall. However, this was not always the case. Home entertainment has come a long way and we’re going to explore its major phases in the following paragraphs. So hop on cinephiles, let’s embark on an entertainment journey –

VHS era

Once upon a time, back in the 1980s, the VHS tape reigned supreme. The clunky, rectangle-shaped boxes took up half the shelf space in your living room. Remember the thrill of rushing to rent out a VHS at your local entertainment store, hoping your favourite movie was in stock? It was like winning the lottery, only with more popcorn. I was lucky enough to experience that euphoria before DVDs took over the world.

But alas, VHS had its quirks. For starters, the joy of movie night was often interrupted by the dreaded “rewind” command. Ah, the joy of watching a tape slowly rewind, wasting precious minutes of our lives. It was like watching grass grow, but less thrilling.

And let’s not forget the infamous “tracking” button on the VCR, the mysterious solution to fuzzy, distorted images. Trying to find that sweet spot between clear visuals and a coherent plot was like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Hours of adjusting later, we’d either have a headache or a clear picture—though the two were often interchangeable.

DVD era

Then, in the early 2000s, along came DVDs, the shiny discs that promised superior quality and unparalleled convenience. Suddenly, our shelves transformed into mini-libraries, and we delighted in the ability to skip directly to our favourite scenes with a mere press of a button. It was a magical time, as long as you didn’t mind spending half an hour hunting for that elusive DVD remote. I remember bringing home a DVD player back in the era when movie piracy was at its peak. Shady DVD sellers would sell pirated versions of films with as many as 7-8 films in one DVD. Back in the day as a kid, buying the pirated DVD had its own thrill as none of us even realised we were committing a criminal offence. Luckily, the era of pirated DVDs ended somewhere around 2009 when Salman Khan’s action blockbuster Wanted was leaked a day before its release in HD which also prompted the makers to make an anti-piracy CID episode, you just had to be there!

Streaming era

Enter the era of streaming, where the boundaries of home entertainment expanded like a buffet table at an all-you-can-eat restaurant. Suddenly, the world was at our fingertips, or rather, our remote controls. With the advent of streaming services, we waved goodbye to the agonizing trips to the video rental store. No more agonizing over which movie to watch, only to find out it had been rented by someone else. Now, we had an entire library of content, ready to be binged upon, whenever and wherever we pleased. But, oh, the paradox of choice! The vast sea of options often left us paralyzed with indecision. Hours were spent scrolling through countless titles, only to end up watching “The Office” for the 15th time. We had all the movies and TV shows in the world at our disposal, and yet we fell into the warm embrace of familiar favourites.

These streaming platforms have changed the way people consume content. The popularity of people getting spoiled by entertainment around the world served up on their TV screens has sparked a debate about whether traditional cinemas are soon to become a thing of the past. In my opinion, NO! However, it’s only about time that we see which turn the OTT and streaming boom takes.

Summer Stories – The Hottest Books to Add to Your Summer Tote

What makes a bibliomaniac happy? Well, in my case, a breezy place by the river, under the shadow of a tree, a stellar collection of great books and, of course, a bottle of water to keep me hydrated. When it comes to the oh-so-beloved summer, the ideal location to have a great read is in a cafe, at a deserted beach under the parasol, by a window with a view that fires up your imagination, on a swing by the lake or at someplace where the temperature doesn’t go above 22 degrees.

Being a servant of modern society, we can’t afford the luxury of leaving our businesses and jobs behind only to have a month-long staycation in the summer. However, we have a few other options – like taking a trip to someplace during the weekends where we can hop on a beach and read a book or two. We have picked the top 10 books for your next summer staycation, each poking the breeze of fresh air to have a chillax summer. Hope you will have a beautiful summer partner in these beauties, enjoy!

Contemporary Romance

The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest

Pages – 403

Goodreads Ratings – 3.83

Published – 28th February 2023

The author is known for – I Wanna Be Where You Are (2019)

Best Served Hot by Amanda Elliot

Pages – 352

Goodreads Ratings – 3.46

Published – 21st February 2023

The author is known for – Sadie on a Plate (2022)

Ruby Spencer’s Whisky Year by Rochelle Bilow

Pages – 368

Goodreads Ratings – 3.47

Published – 14th February 2023

The author is known for – The Call of the Farm (2014)

The Plus One by Mazey Eddings

Pages – 307

Goodreads Ratings – 4.13

Published – 4th April 2023

The author is known for – A Brush with Love (2022)

French Holiday by Sarah Ready

Pages – N/A

Goodreads Ratings – 4.02

Published – 26th April 2023

The author is known for – Josh and Gemma Make a Baby

The Last Word by Katy Birchall

Pages – 384

Goodreads Ratings – 3.89

Published – 2nd May 2023

The author is known for – The Wedding Season (2022)

Just My Type by Falon Ballard

Pages – 368

Goodreads Ratings – 3.87

Published – 7th February 2023

The author is known for – Lease on Love (2022)

Fantasy World

Now You See Us by Balli Kaur Jaswal

Pages – 320

Goodreads Ratings – 3.76

Published – 28th February 2023

The author is known for – Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows (2017)

Victory City by Salman Rushdie

Pages – 352

Goodreads Ratings – 3.94

Published – 7th February 2023

The author is known for – Midnight’s Children (1981)

Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo

Pages – 481

Goodreads Ratings – 4.23

Published – 10th January 2023

The author is known for – Ninth House (2019)

The Faithless by C.L. Clark

Pages – 558

Goodreads Ratings – 4.41

Published – 7th March 2023

The author is known for – The Unbroken (2022)

Lone Women by Victor LaValle

Pages – 285

Goodreads Ratings – 3.83

Published – 28th March 2023

The author is known for – We Travel the Spaceways (2021)

The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by S.A. Chakraborty

Pages – 483

Goodreads Ratings – 4.39

Published – 28th February 2023

The author is known for – The Daevabad Trilogy (2017-2020)

Suspenseful Narratives

The Shards by Bret Easton Ellis

Pages – 608

Goodreads Ratings – 4.0

Published – 17th January 2023

The author is known for – American Psycho (1991)

Going Zero by Anthony McCarten

Pages – 304

Goodreads Ratings – 4.10

Published – 11th April 2023

The author is known for – Darkest Hour: How Churchill Brought England Back from the Brink (2017)

Promise Boys by Nick Brooks

Pages – 304

Goodreads Ratings – 4.11

Published – 31st January 2023

The author is known for – Nothing Interesting Ever Happens to Ethan Fairmont (2022)

Exiles by Jane Harper

Pages – 356

Goodreads Ratings – 4.11

Published – 20th September 2022

The author is known for – The Survivors (2020)

The Marriage Act by John Marrs

Pages – 432

Goodreads Ratings – 4.11

Published – 19th January 2023

The author is known for – The One (2016)

The Other Side of Night by Adam Hamdy

Pages – 304

Goodreads Ratings – 3.55

Published – 19th January 2023

The author is known for – Black 13 (2020)

The 6:20 Man by David Baldacci

Pages – 432

Goodreads Ratings – 4.17

Published – 12th July 2023

The author is known for – Memory Man (2015)

Debut Authors

Seven Percent Of Ro Devereux by Ellen O’Clover

Pages – 320

Goodreads Ratings – 4.13

Published – 17th January 2023

Out of Character by Jenna Miller

Pages – 384

Goodreads Ratings – 4.04

Published – 7th February 2023

Revelle by Lyssa Mia Smith

Pages – 464

Goodreads Ratings – 4.06

Published – 14th February 2023

Play the Game by Charlene Allen

Pages – 320

Goodreads Ratings – 4.02

Published – 31st January 2023

Fling by Joseph Murray

Pages – 368

Goodreads Ratings – 3.75

Published – 2nd February 2023

Summertime Binge Watch: Best Summer Classic Films

Ah, summer – a time for long, lazy days, sun-kissed skin, and ice-cold lemonade (with some gin or vodka in it if you’re an adult). It’s also the perfect season for kicking back and watching some classic films that take you back to a simpler time. Whether you’re looking for a trip down memory lane or just a chance to escape the heat, these timeless movies are sure to make your summer unforgettable.

From beach parties to road trips, from first loves to summer jobs, these films capture the essence of the season with all its ups and downs. So grab your popcorn, settle into your favourite spot, and get ready to relive the best summers of your life. Here are our top picks for the best summer classic films – guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a warm glow to your heart along with some thrills and scares down the line.

Jaws (1975)

Over 40 years down the line and this film still surprises the audience with its practical special effects. Jaws is a classic summer movie that is sure to get your heart racing. The film tells the story of a great white shark that terrorizes a beach community. It is a perfect film to watch on a hot summer day, as it captures the excitement and danger of being near the ocean.

The Sandlot (1993)

The Sandlot is a coming-of-age film that takes place during the summer of 1962. It follows a group of kids who spend their days playing baseball on a vacant lot. The film is a nostalgic look at summer days spent with friends and captures the feeling of endless possibility that comes with the season.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

Time of My Life is a song that still sits at an honorary position in my playlist. One can easily call it the summer romance film which defined a cinematic generation. Dirty Dancing is a classic summer romance that takes place at a resort in the Catskills. It follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with a dance instructor. The film captures the spirit of summer love and the thrill of trying new things.

The Parent Trap (1998)

The Parent Trap is a fun and lighthearted film about two identical twins who were separated at birth and reunite at summer camp. The film captures the magic of summer camp and the joy of making new friends. It is a great film to watch with the whole family.

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is a coming-of-age film that follows four friends who spend their summer apart but stay connected through a pair of magical pants. The film captures the joy of summer adventures and the power of friendship.

Independence Day (1996)

The film that made Will Smith a household name! Independence Day is a classic summer blockbuster that takes place on the 4th of July. It follows the story of a group of people who band together to save the world from an alien invasion. The film captures the excitement and patriotism of the holiday and is a great film to watch with friends. Too bad, its legacy sequel titled Independence Day: Resurgence could not recreate the same magic on screen and at the box office!

Stand by Me (1986)

Stand by Me is a classic coming-of-age film that takes place during the summer of 1959. It follows a group of friends who set out on a journey to find a dead body. While the synopsis might sound a little off-putting, the film charms the audience with its whole friendship values.

The Great Outdoors (1988)

Family vacations are only fun when you are a kid, but are a hassle when you’re an adult due to added responsibilities. The Great Outdoors is a classic summer comedy that captures the essence of a crazy family holiday as it follows a family on a vacation to a lake resort. The film captures the chaos and hilarity that can come with family vacations and is a great film to watch with the whole family.

Dazed and Confused (1993)

Matthew McConaughey ‘Alright, Alright, Alright!’ his way into our hearts with this film! Dazed and Confused is a classic film that takes place on the last day of high school in 1976. It follows a group of students as they celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. The film captures the excitement and rebelliousness of youth and is a great film to watch with friends.

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

Another classic family vacation movie! National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic summer comedy that follows the Griswold family on a cross-country road trip to a theme park. The film captures the chaos and mishaps that can happen on family vacations and is a great film to watch with the whole family.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a classic comedy that takes place on a sunny spring day in Chicago. It follows Ferris Bueller, a high school student who fakes an illness to skip school and spend the day exploring the city with his best friend and girlfriend. The film captures the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with skipping school and enjoying the sunshine.

The Way, Way Back (2013)

THE WAY, WAY BACK……©WWBSP LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The Way, Way Back is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that takes place during a summer vacation at a beach house. It follows 14-year-old Duncan, who feels out of place among his family and finds refuge at a water park where he meets a new friend and gains confidence. The film captures the feeling of being an outsider and the joy of discovering oneself during a summer vacation.

Books to Enjoy During Your Downtime This Summer!

The summers are an excuse for many to hop out of their shell and try out new things. While some explore adventure sports, others hit the gym and bring out the fitness freak inside them. Similarly, some also spend the majority of their time being couch potatoes binge-watching their favourite shows and movies. While I am not against binge-watching as it may be my favourite thing to do during holidays, I cannot disagree about the fact that there are better ways to spend my downtime.

Summers are the season of sun, sand, and leisurely afternoons. So, what’s better than getting lost in a good book? One can enjoy a book while lounging on the beach, relaxing by the pool, or just soaking up some rays in the park. Also, reading books is the only legal way to hallucinate in real life thus embarking on a journey with larger-than-life characters all while sitting in your comfort does not feel like a bad proposition. So, if you’re new to the reading game, here are some of the best books you can enjoy during the lazy and hazy days of summer –

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

First on our list is “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams. This classic sci-fi novel follows the misadventures of Arthur Dent, an unwitting earthling who finds himself hurtling through space after his planet is destroyed to make way for an interstellar highway. Packed with absurd humour, wacky characters, and mind-bending plot twists, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide” is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a light, quirky read to enjoy while basking in the summer sun.

The Beach

Next up, we have “The Beach” by Alex Garland. This gripping novel follows the journey of Richard, a young backpacker who sets out to find an idyllic beach paradise rumoured to be hidden somewhere in Thailand. As he and his fellow travellers navigate through dangerous jungles and treacherous waters, they begin to realize that the beach may not be the paradise they’d hoped for. Filled with stunning imagery and a sense of adventure that will keep you on the edge of your beach towel, “The Beach” is the ultimate summer read for anyone looking for a thrilling escape.

The Alchemist

For those looking for something a bit more contemplative, we recommend “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. This uplifting tale follows the journey of a young shepherd named Santiago as he travels across the desert in search of his personal legend. Filled with powerful messages about following your dreams, the power of the universe, and the importance of listening to your heart, “The Alchemist” is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a thought-provoking read to enjoy while sipping a drink in the summer heat.

“Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah

Next up, we have “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah. This memoir by the host of “The Daily Show” tells the story of Noah’s childhood growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. Filled with humour, heartbreak, and insights into the human condition, “Born a Crime” is the perfect book to read on lazy summer afternoons when you want to learn something new and be entertained at the same time.

Pride and Prejudice

If you’re in the mood for a classic romance novel, you can’t go wrong with “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen. This timeless tale of love and class in 19th-century England has been beloved by readers for generations, and it’s the perfect book to read while lounging on the beach or sitting in the garden with a glass of iced tea.

So there you have it, folks – my top picks for the best books to read during the summer months. Whether you’re looking for sci-fi, adventure, inspiration, or just a good old-fashioned romp, there’s sure to be a book on this list that will capture your imagination and help you make the most of your lazy summer days. So grab a book, slap on some sunscreen, and enjoy the season in style!

Star Wars Day 2023: Here’s How You Watch The Series in Chronological Order

Are you ready to embark on a journey through time and space, young Padawan? Then buckle up, because we’re going to show you how to watch the Star Wars saga in chronological order!

First things first, we need to establish which order we’re talking about. There are two main ways to watch the Star Wars movies: in release order or in chronological order. If you’re a purist, you’ll probably want to watch them in the order they were released, starting with Episode IV: A New Hope. But if you’re a rebel (or just like things to be a bit more logical), then chronological order is the way to go.

So, where do we begin? Well, the first Star Wars movie to take place chronologically is actually Episode I: The Phantom Menace. Yes, I know what you’re thinking – “But Jar Jar Binks is in that one!” – but bear with me, young Padawan. We’ll get through this together.

Now, if you’re a Star Wars novice, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Well, let me tell you – Star Wars is more than just a series of movies. It’s a cultural phenomenon, a way of life. And as Obi-Wan Kenobi once said, “The Force will be with you, always.”

But I digress. Let’s get back to the matter at hand. To watch Star Wars in chronological order, you’ll need to start with Episode I: The Phantom Menace. This is where we meet a young Anakin Skywalker before he becomes Darth Vader, and learn about the mysterious Sith Lord, Darth Sidious.

Next up is Episode II: Attack of the Clones. This is where we see Anakin start to turn to the dark side, as he falls in love with Padmé Amidala and begins to question the Jedi Order. Plus, we get to see Yoda in action, which is always a treat.

Then we move on to Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. This is where Anakin fully embraces the dark side and becomes Darth Vader. It’s a dark and brooding movie, but it’s also one of the most epic and memorable moments in the Star Wars saga. As Darth Vader himself once said, “I find your lack of faith disturbing.”

After the prequels, we move on to the original trilogy. First up is Episode IV: A New Hope, where we meet Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia. This is where the adventure begins, as they team up to take down the evil Empire and save the galaxy. Plus, we get to see Darth Vader in all his menacing glory.

Next is Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, which is widely considered to be the best Star Wars movie of all time. This is where we see Luke confront his father, Darth Vader, and where we get one of the most famous lines in movie history: “Luke, I am your father.” (Note: the actual line is “No, I am your father,” but you get the idea.)

Finally, we come to Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. This is where we see the epic conclusion to the original trilogy, as Luke and his friends team up to take down the Empire once and for all. Plus, we get to see some cute little Ewoks, which is always a bonus.

But wait, there’s more! After the original trilogy, we have the sequel trilogy, which consists of Episode VII: The Force Awakens, Episode VIII: The Last Jedi, and Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. These movies take place after the events of the original trilogy and feature a new cast of characters, including Rey, Finn, and Poe.