Dear Reader,
My month was filled with special events. While it’s so easy to experience more and more from the portal of our computer screens, sometimes there’s nothing like just being there. From heading down south for SXSW (South by Southwest) to the local Books of Wonder event in Manhattan, this was a truly in-person, interactive type of month.
At SXSW the now ex-Girls star Christopher Abbott sat down and spoke about his upcoming film Burma. At the premier of Spring Breakers, Selena Gomez and James Franco shared more on their experience creating the film, and how Franco never left character. Seeing Joseph Gordon-Levitt (or as I know him from 3rd Rock from the Sun, Tommy Solomon) on stage after watching his new film (and debut as writer-director) Don Jon was a particular thrill; he spoke clearly and professionally. Based on his evident and abundant talent, we should see great things from his hitrecord label!
This month, recognition must go to the creators of Degrassi. For more than two generations, the Canadian show has stirred up many issues that have resulted in added focus on teen parenting and sexuality. In a recent episode, “Bittersweet Symphony,” we witnessed a suicide. The episode brought home how, deep
down, we are all struggling with something, and how important it is to remain open with yourself and trust the people who love you to guide you through the turmoil. The suicide and its fallout were depicted very effectively in the episode, giving insight into how there is no ‘right way’ of dealing with this issue.
It’s sad to say that this is a timely and salient theme. That’s why Degrassi deserves a special mention here, in hopes of it finding a new generation of viewers and many more to come.
On a lighter note, Spring is finally here…or just around the corner!
Happy reading, everyone.
-ML