We also discuss my week of choir rehearsals and marathon watching. Coachella 2026, Euphoria's return, and the Laufey "Mad Woman" music video featuring Hudson Williams.

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 00:13 – Natalie's Week
• 04:29 – Our Pop Culture debrief
• 13:22 – Solo Movie Date | Thrash
• 18:13 – Thrash Recap

The Deep Dive

Directed by Tommy Wirkola, Thrash (originally titled Beneath the Storm or Shiver) is a visceral 2026 survival horror that brings "slapstick gore" to a coastal disaster setting. Filmed in Melbourne, Australia, the film follows an ensemble cast—including Whitney Peake, Phoebe Dynevor, and Djimon Hounsou—fighting to survive a catastrophic category six storm surge in South Carolina that unleashes predatory bull sharks into flooded urban streets. As the water levels rise within a reinforced-glass foster home and a trapped Mini Cooper, the survivors must navigate claustrophobic terror and unlikely "water births" while fending off the "hyenas of the ocean." Blending high-stakes tension with Wirkola’s signature dark humor, this Netflix original is a must-watch for fans of creature features and stylized, high-concept survival thrillers.

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We also discuss my week of Easter brunching at Mildred's and finishing the Heated Rivalry book. The Summer House breakup drama , Connor Storrie's viral Verizon ad , and the trailer for Olivia Wilde’s new film The Invite.

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 01:23 – Natalie's Week
• 07:46 – Our Pop Culture debrief
• 18:22 – Solo Movie Date | The Drama
• 19:22 – The Drama Recap

The Deep Dive

Directed and written by Kristoffer Borgli, The Drama is a tense and provocative 2026 exploration of secrets and social performance. The film stars Zendaya and Robert Pattinson as Emma and Charlie, a couple whose upcoming wedding is thrown into a tailspin following a shocking dinner-table confession. Supported by Alana Haim and Mamoudou Athie as the couple's best friends. With a haunting, flute-heavy score by Daniel Pemberton this A24 production serves as a biting "morality barometer" , making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven psychodramas and those who love a "juicy discussion" about whether people can truly change.

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Directed by Ryan Murphy and written by Matthew Hodgson, The Beauty is a high-concept 2026 body-horror thriller that explores the lethal cost of physical perfection. The series follows a world obsessed with a transformative virus that grants users instant beauty and super-strength, but carries a hidden "expiration date" of 855 days. In Episode 9, the ensemble cast—led by Evan Peters, Jessica Alexander, Anthony Ramos, and Ashton Kutcher—navigates the fallout of a corporate conspiracy as they seek refuge with a reclusive robotics expert, Diana Starling, who believes the future of humanity lies in synthetic "Deacons" rather than organic flesh. Produced by 20th Television, this stylized drama blends "American Horror Story" camp with gritty sci-fi, featuring a shocking transformation for the series lead that cements its status as a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and dark, satirical social commentaries.

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On this episode the beauty is finally released and we meet Bella Grant a high school student heavily influenced by her peers and the internet to take the Beauty.

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Directed and written by Ryan Murphy, The Beauty is a high-concept 2026 sci-fi horror series that explores the gruesome cost of physical perfection. The season finale, titled "Beautiful Betrayal," follows the chaotic downfall of the Byron Force empire as his sons, played by Ray Nicholson and Brandon Gillard, forcibly transform their mother (Isabella Rossellini) into a "Beauty," leading to a tragic suicide that pivots Byron (Ashton Kutcher) against his own creation. As a "street version" of the drug causes horrific mutations in innocent victims like Bella, a desperate alliance forms between Dr. Sterling, Jordan, and the child-morphed Cooper to eliminate Byron and secure an antidote. Produced with Murphy’s signature camp aesthetic and body-horror "vibe," this finale serves as a gritty ensemble thriller that leaves the world on the brink of a biological evolution, making it a must-watch for fans of American Horror Story and stylized, cautionary tales of vanity.

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We also discuss my week of singing and starting Heated Rivalry. Taylor Swift at the IHeart Radio awards, Scott Mills BBC dismissal and the Amanda Batula / Wes Wilson situation.

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 01:23 – Natalie's Week
• 07:46 – Our Pop Culture debrief
• 18:22 – Solo Movie Date | Pretty Lethal
• 25:36 – Pretty Lethal Recap

Directed by Vicky Jewson and written by Kate Freund, Pretty Lethal (originally titled Ballerina Overdrive) is a high-octane 2026 action thriller that blends the elegance of dance with brutal survival.The film follows a dysfunctional troupe of five American ballerinas—played by Maddie Ziegler, Lana Condor, Iris Apatow, Millicent Simmonds, and Avantika—whose bus breaks down in the Hungarian wilderness while en route to a major competition.Forced to seek shelter at a sinister roadside inn run by a reclusive former prima ballerina (Uma Thurman), the girls find themselves trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse against a ruthless criminal syndicate.Produced by 87North (John Wick, Nobody), this Prime Video original features "ballet-fu" choreography where the dancers weaponize their discipline and pointe shoes to fight for their lives, making it a must-watch for fans of stylized, female-led action cinema and gritty ensemble thrillers.

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What’s Happening in Episode 7?

This week’s recap explores the heartbreaking and high-stakes transformation of Chief Meyer Williams and his family. We discuss the show's portrayal of Progeria (often compared to "Benjamin Button disease") and how Byron Forst (played by Ashton Kutcher) uses it as a tool for manipulation.

FX’s The Beauty is the must-watch sci-fi horror event of 2026, bringing the visceral world of the Image Comics series by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley to life. Developed by the powerhouse creative duo of Ryan Murphy and Matthew Hodgson, this provocative thriller explores a world where a sexually transmitted virus grants hosts physical perfection—at a lethal cost. As the "Beauty" epidemic spreads, FBI agents Cooper Madsen and Jordan Bennett, played by Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall, must uncover a deep-seated conspiracy involving a shadowy corporation and the high price of vanity.

The star-studded cast features a mix of Murphy’s frequent collaborators and high-profile talent, including Ashton Kutcher as a ruthless tech mogul, Anthony Ramos, Jeremy Pope, and the legendary Isabella Rossellini. With executive production by Evan Peters and Anthony Ramos, the series blends body horror with social commentary, making it a spiritual successor to hits like The Substance and American Horror Story. Now streaming on Hulu and Disney+

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World Beauty Day is Coming...

The episode kicks off with Byron Forst (Ashton Kutcher) doing his best "tech bro" launch for World Beauty Day. He’s selling the serum as the ultimate evolution—claiming it can cure cancer and Alzheimer’s—all while rocking a very questionable, disappearing accent. We even see a high-octane, La La Land-style musical trailer directed by Michael Bay himself.

FX’s The Beauty is the must-watch sci-fi horror event of 2026, bringing the visceral world of the Image Comics series by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley to life. Developed by the powerhouse creative duo of Ryan Murphy and Matthew Hodgson, this provocative thriller explores a world where a sexually transmitted virus grants hosts physical perfection—at a lethal cost. As the "Beauty" epidemic spreads, FBI agents Cooper Madsen and Jordan Bennett, played by Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall, must uncover a deep-seated conspiracy involving a shadowy corporation and the high price of vanity.

The star-studded cast features a mix of Murphy’s frequent collaborators and high-profile talent, including Ashton Kutcher as a ruthless tech mogul, Anthony Ramos, Jeremy Pope, and the legendary Isabella Rossellini. With executive production by Evan Peters and Anthony Ramos, the series blends body horror with social commentary, making it a spiritual successor to hits like The Substance and American Horror Story. Now streaming on Hulu and Disney+

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On this weeks Solo Movie Date, Natalie is diving into Ready or Not 2: Here I Come... followed by a look at how this direct sequel picks up the literal second the first film ended. The movie expands the high-stakes survival horror from one mansion to a global council of elite satanic families, focusing on the fractured relationship between two sisters fighting for the "High Seat."

00:00 Introduction

01:37 Natalie's Week

06:41 Pop Culture debrief

14:48 Movie Trivia

20:13 Solo Movie Dates | Ready or Not 2: Here I come

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Chappell Roan hates children
• Bridgerton goes gay
• Spider-Man busting records
• 13 Going on 30 Reboot
• Off Campus gets an ice time

Ready or Not 2: Here I Come

Moments after surviving an all-out attack from the Le Domas family, Grace discovers she has reached the next level of a nightmarish game—this time with her estranged sister Faith at her side. She has one chance to survive, keep her sister alive, and claim the High Seat of the Council that controls the world. Four rival families are hunting her for the throne, and whoever wins the game rules it all.

Director: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett

Starring: Samara Weaving, Kathryn Newton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Shawn Hatosy, and Elijah Wood

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The Beauty

In a world obsessed with physical perfection, a revolutionary but deadly serum offers the promise of becoming a supermodel at a catastrophic cost. As Agents Cooper Madsen and Jordan Bennett investigate a series of spontaneous human combustions linked to the drug, they uncover a corporate conspiracy involving black-market "street" versions and a ticking 855-day clock until total incineration. In this chapter, the investigation turns clinical as the true, animalistic nature of the transformation is revealed within a high-security quarantine.

Director: Ryan Murphy Starring: Evan Peters, Rebecca Hall, Jessica Alexander, Ashton Kutcher, Ben Platt, Isaac Powell, Anthony Ramos, Jeremy Pope

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The Beauty

When a mysterious virus begins transforming people into "perfect" versions of themselves—physically flawless, highly intelligent, and physically superior—the world becomes obsessed with the change. However, this evolution comes with a horrific expiration date: exactly 855 days after transformation, the "Beautiful" literally explode. As an FBI agent and his newly transformed partner race to find a cure, they uncover a conspiracy involving the world’s elite and a creator who will go to any lengths to keep his masterpiece exclusive.

Director: Ryan Murphy

Starring: Evan Peters, Ashton Kutcher, Rebecca Hall, Vincent D'Onofrio, Isabella Rossellini, Anthony Ramos

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The Beauty

When a mysterious virus begins transforming people into "perfect" versions of themselves—physically flawless, highly intelligent, and physically superior—the world becomes obsessed with the change. However, this evolution comes with a horrific expiration date: exactly 855 days after transformation, the "Beautiful" literally explode. As an FBI agent and his newly transformed partner race to find a cure, they uncover a conspiracy involving the world’s elite and a creator who will go to any lengths to keep his masterpiece exclusive.

Director: Ryan Murphy Starring: Evan Peters, Ashton Kutcher, Rebecca Hall, Vincent D'Onofrio, Isabella Rossellini, Anthony Ramos 

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We also discuss my week of singing lessons and seeing the West End play Oh Mary! Michael B. Jordan’s historic Oscar win, Jesse Buckley's Best Actress victory, and the Timothée Chalamet "How to Lose an Oscar in 10 Days" drama.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to Solo Movie Dates

01:33 – Natalie's Week

07:37 – Our Pop Culture debrief

13:05 – Solo Movie Date Set up

15:10 – Project Hail Mary Trivia

23:09 – Solo Movie Date | Project Hail Mary Recap

The Deep Dive: Project Hail Mary

Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and written by Drew Goddard, Project Hail Mary is a visually stunning 2026 sci-fi epic adapted from the best-selling novel by Andy Weir. The film stars Ryan Gosling as Ryland Grace, a junior high school teacher who wakes up on a solitary spacecraft with amnesia, only to realize he is humanity's last hope to save the sun from a life-extinguishing parasite known as the Astrophage. Featuring an ensemble cast including Sandra Hüller, Lionel Boyce, Ken Leung, and Priya Kansara, the production utilized a massive $248 million budget to create a 360-degree physical set of the Hail Mary ship and record-breaking 70mm IMAX footage captured by cinematographer Greig Fraser. This "solution-finding" space odyssey introduces a groundbreaking non-human companion, Rocky—brought to life through a blend of physical puppetry by James Ortiz and digital refinement by Framestore—making it a must-watch for fans of hard science fiction, high-stakes problem solving, and the "buddy cop" dynamic of the most unlikely duo in the galaxy.

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Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 01:53 – Natalie’s connection to AHS & The Murphyverse
• 07:36 – The Beauty - TV SHOW
• 16:05 – Episode One: The Beautiful Pilot
• 49:17 – Episode Two: Beautiful Jordan
• 01:13:17 – Episode Three: The Beautiful Christopher Cross

Links

American Horror Story unofficial podcast

The Beauty trailer

The Beauty

A sexually transmitted disease grants physical perfection to those infected but comes with a horrific catch: spontaneous combustion and death after approximately 800 days. As the virus spreads through the elite and the desperate alike, detectives Drew Foster and Cara Vaughan are drawn into a global conspiracy involving scientific serums, high-fashion contagion, and the lengths people will go to for a perfect face.

Director: Ryan Murphy, Alexis Martin Woodall Starring: Evan Peters, Rebecca Hall, Anthony Ramos, Jeremy Pope, Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Alexander

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The episode explores the fallout of a tragic accident that unearths a scandalous affair, leaving a mother and daughter to navigate grief, betrayal, and some seriously questionable life choices.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates

01:13 Natalie's week

03:58 Pop culture download

08:06 Solo Movie Date setting

10:31 Regretting You Movie Trivia

15:56 Solo Movie Date | Regretting You 

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Timothée Chalamet — Timmy is in hot water with the global dance community after some incredibly flippant comments about ballet and opera being "dying" art forms—someone needs a reality check!
• Harry Styles — The "Kiss All the Time Disco Occasionally" one-night-only special was a total dream, even if it required a trek to Manchester to witness the magic.
• The Hooververse — With Reminders of Him hitting theaters and Verity boasting a massive A-list cast including Anne Hathaway and Josh Hartnett, Colleen Hoover’s grip on cinema is only getting tighter.

Regretting You

When a tragic car accident claims the lives of Chris and Jenny, Morgan is left to pick up the pieces of her shattered world while raising her rebellious daughter, Clara. However, the grief turns to rage when she discovers her husband and sister were carrying on a long-term affair behind her back. Forced to navigate a complicated reconnection with her high school flame, Jonah, Morgan must find a way to rebuild her life without letting the secrets of the past destroy her daughter’s future.

Director: Josh Boone Starring: Alison Williams, Dave Franco, McKenna Grace, Mason Thames, Scott Eastwood, and Willa Fitzgerald

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After a whirlwind trip to Manchester, I’m back in London to give you the full scoop on Harry Styles’ "One Night Only" album launch for Kiss All the Time, Disco Occasionally.

We’re breaking down everything from the high-energy synth-pop vibes to the emotional moments that had Harry (and us) nearly in tears.

Inside this episode:

• The Album Vibe: Why Kiss All the Time, Disco Occasionally is a synthesized "dance party" that needs to be heard live.
• The Venue & Snacks: My survival guide for the brand-new Co-op Arena
• The "No Phone" Experience: What it was like being filmed for Netflix and why having our phones locked away actually improved the gig
• The Performance: Harry’s return to the stage after three years, his "synth DJ" era with those signature Harry dance moves.
• The Setlist: From the gospel-infused "Painting by Numbers" to the surprise encore of "Aperture"

Feel so lucky I got to go and share this experience with you all!

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Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 01:23 Natalie's week
• 06:52 Pop culture breakdown
• 16:19 Solo Movie Date setting
• 18:39 Together - Movie trivia
• 28:14 Solo Movie Date | Together

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Bridgerton X Charli XCX
• Harry Styles’ Manchester Show
• Connor Story on SNL + Hudson :heart:
• 2026 Actors Awards
• Zendaya and Tom Holland’s Secret Wedding
• The Brit Awards
• Rosalia and Bjork’s Party

Together

A struggling couple, Tim and Millie, attempt to save their decaying ten-year relationship by moving to a remote cabin, only to fall into a mysterious sinkhole containing "magic" water. As they begin to physically fuse together in a grotesque biological process, they must confront their deep-seated codependency and a local cult that believes human beings are merely halves waiting to be made whole.

Director: Michael Shanks Starring: Dave Franco, Alison Brie

Together trailer

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Bridgerton Season 4

In the wake of his siblings' marriages, the artistic and bohemian Benedict Bridgerton finds himself enchanted by a mysterious "Lady in Silver" at a masquerade ball. When he later encounters a resilient and overqualified maid named Sophie Beck, he is torn between the fantasy of his masked lady and the reality of the woman in front of him. As the Ton navigates a scandalous maid shortage and the Bridgerton family faces a sudden, tragic loss, the pair must decide if their love is worth defying the rigid social hierarchies of the Regency era.

Director: Tricia Brock

Starring: Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Hannah Dodd, Katie Leung, and Nicola Coughlan

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Bridgerton Season 4: Part Two

In the concluding half of the season, the "Ton" is set ablaze as Benedict Bridgerton’s search for the mysterious woman from the masquerade ball leads him to an impossible choice between his family's standing and his heart’s desire. As Sophie Beck struggles to navigate her life as a servant harboring a noble secret, the Bridgerton household is rocked by a sudden death that forces every sibling to confront the fleeting nature of happiness. The season balances "Cinderella" whimsy with the harsh realities of illegitimate status, ultimately questioning if love can truly transcend the strict boundaries of 19th-century London society.

Director: Tricia Brock, Binnie Benz Starring: Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Hannah Dodd, Victor Alli, Masali Baduza, Nicola Coughlan, and Ruth Gemmell

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Love Me, Love Me

After moving to Milan for a fresh start following a family tragedy, a quirky teenager named June finds herself caught between two best friends at her new international school. She must navigate the aggressive advances of James, a brooding MMA fighter with a dark past, and the intense, possessive attention of Will, all while uncovering a dangerous web of steroid abuse and family secrets.

Director: Roger Kumble Starring: Mia Jenkins, Luca Mulucci, Pepe Barroso

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On this weeks Solo Movie Date, Natalie is diving into Wuthering Heights, the 2025 Emerald Fennell adaptation that swaps traditional gothic gloom for high-fashion aesthetics and music video energy.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:31 Natalie's week
• 04:25 Pop Culture and Movie News debrief
• 12:29 Wuthering Heights Trivia
• 38:57 Solo Movie Date | Wuthering Heights

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Bad Bunny Superbowl stats
• Summer House Season 10
• The Winter Olympics

Wuthering Heights

Locked in a cycle of obsession and revenge on the desolate Yorkshire moors, two souls find themselves inextricably bound together across time. After being taken in by the wealthy Earnshaw family, an outsider develops a volatile connection with the headstrong daughter of the house, sparking a decade-spanning conflict that threatens to destroy everyone in their orbit. This modern interpretation reimagines the classic tale with a focus on high-fashion aesthetics and the destructive nature of unrequited longing.

Director: Emerald Fennell

Starring: Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, Hong Chau, Shazad Latif, Alison Oliver, Martin Clunes, Ewan Mitchell, Charlotte Mellington.

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Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 01:23 Olympics cheat
• 04:24 Solo Movie Date | F*ck Valentines Day

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Sturla Holm Lægreid cheating confession

F Valentine's Day

Born on February 14th, Gina has spent her entire life resenting the commercialized spectacle that consistently overshadows her birthday. When she suspects her well-meaning but type-A boyfriend is planning to propose during a getaway to Greece, she enlists the help of two fellow vacationers to sabotage the moment, only to realize she might be in the wrong relationship altogether.

Director: Mark Gantt Starring: Virginia Gardner, Marisa Tomei, Skylar Astin, Jake Cannavale, Sabrina Bartlett, Lil Rel Howery, and Natasha Leggero.

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Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:57 Life update
• 08:12 Pop Culture & Movie News
• 22:36 Solo Movie Date | The location
• 25:16 Solo Movie Date | Send Help

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl — An incredible, unapologetic celebration of Puerto Rican culture that didn't water itself down for anyone!
• Chappell Roan — Taking a massive stand for her moral values by dumping her agency - we love to see it!
• Cynthia Erivo’s Dracula — An ambitious one-woman show where she plays 23 characters.

Trailers I saw

Ready or not here I come Watch here

Cold Storage Official Trailer starring Joe Keery and Liam Neeson. Watch on YouTube

They Will Kill You Official Trailer starring Zazie Beetz and Patricia Arquette. Watch on YouTube

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After their private jet crashes into the ocean en route to a business meeting in Bangkok, a demanding CEO and his talented but undervalued assistant find themselves stranded on a deserted island. As they struggle to survive the elements and each other, the traditional office hierarchy is stripped away, revealing a dark and bloody battle for dominance where survival skills matter more than a VP title.

Director: Sam Raimi Starring: Rachel McAdams, Dylan O'Brien, Xavier Samuel, Chris Pang

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Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction
• 02:13 Bridgerton Season Trivia
• 11:18 Episode One: The Waltz
• 46:58 Episode Two: Time Transfixed
• 01:19:15 Episode Three: The field next to the other road
• 01:48:32 Episode Four: An offer from a gentleman

Bridgerton Season 4, Part 1

Set against the lavish and competitive backdrop of Regency-era London's high society, the story follows the bohemian second son of the Bridgerton clan as he finds himself enchanted by a mysterious "Lady in Silver" at a masquerade ball. When he later encounters a resilient new maid in his mother's household, he is torn between his search for the elusive debutante and his growing attraction to a woman society deems beneath his station. As scandals brew and Lady Whistledown sharpens her quill, the ton must navigate the thin line between reputation and true desire.

Director: Tricia Brock

Starring: Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Katie Leung, Michelle Mao, Isabella Wei

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Timestamps

• 00:00 — Intro
• 01:12 — Pop Culture & Movie News
• 07:15 — Solo Movie Date setting
• 09:30 — Trivia
• 17:45 — Solo Movie Date

Pop Culture & Movie News

• The New Beatles — Barry Keoghan and Paul Mescal are looking uncanny as the Fab Four, and we are officially sat for this indie-band vibe.
• Grammy Chaos — Cher reigned supreme despite a hilarious teleprompter flub, and she is rightfully taking down Dax Shepard.
• K-Pop History — Golden from K-Pop Demon Hunters secured the first-ever K-pop genre Grammy, and we love to see the Academy finally catching up.
• Bennifer 3.0 Sightings — Ben Affleck and JLo were spotted holding hands again, and I truly feel for Matt Damon having to hear about this 24/7.
• Connor Story on SNL — Our favourite is hosting on February 28th, and I am expecting a legendary performance with plenty of Heated Rivalry nods.
• Finding Her Edge Renewed — This ridiculous show is getting a second season after rage-baiting us with a terrible ending, and the streaming gods are officially unhinged.

Red, White & Royal Blue

Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the first female President of the United States, is the closest thing the U.S. has to a royal. Handsome and charismatic, he has one major problem: a long-standing feud with Britain’s Prince Henry. When a public altercation at a royal wedding ends with a literal "cake-gate," the two are forced into a staged "truce" to save international relations. However, as they spend time together pretending to be friends, their fake relationship evolves into something much deeper, forcing them to navigate the pressures of their public roles while exploring a secret romance that could change both of their countries forever.

Director: Matthew Lopez Starring: Taylor Zakhar Perez, Nicholas Galitzine, Uma Thurman, Stephen Fry

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Poll to pick next weeks Solo Movie Date

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 00:55 Pop Culture and Movie News Recap
• 10:08 My Fault: London Trivia
• 11:20 Solo Movie Date | My Fault: London
• 58:30 Conclusions

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Oscars History + recap — Sinners just shattered the all-time record with 16 nominations, officially dethroning Titanic and La La Land!
• Casting Category — Finally, after 25 years of doing nothing new, the Oscars added a Best Achievement in Casting category and the nominees are already stacked.
• Hudson & Connor — The boys were cute carrying the Olympic torch, but Connor Story is clearly overwhelmed and closing down his socials because the "Heated Rivalry" club nights are getting too big.
• Margot Robbie & Jacob Elordi — Margot is a marketing genius for Wuthering Heights, but yapping about Jacob filling her room with rose petals feels like a total PR stunt.

My Fault: London

When Noah's mother, Ella, falls in love with the uber-wealthy William, the two move from America to London to live with William and his son, Nick. Upon arriving, 18-year-old Noah discovers an instant, forbidden attraction between her and "bad boy" Nick. As Noah spends the summer adjusting to her new life and making new friends in Nick’s dangerous social circles—including underground racing and fighting—she is forced to navigate their complicated bond while her devastating past from America finally catches up with her.

Director: Dani Girdwood and Charlotte Fassler Starring: Asha Banks, Matthew Broome, Eve Macklin, Ray Fearon, and Jason Flemyng

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Poll to pick next weeks Solo Movie Date

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction and Predictions Recap
• 05:57 Episode Five: Spiraling
• 24:51 Episode Six: Crossovers
• 35:22 Episode Seven: Death Spiral
• 45:45 Episode Eight: Medaling
• 58:30 Conclusions

Finding Her Edge

After a career-ending injury sidelines her older sister, former ice dancer Adriana Russo is thrust back into the competitive spotlight to save her family’s struggling skating rink. To secure the sponsorships needed to prevent financial ruin, she enters a high-stakes partnership with the "bad boy" of the skating world, Brayden Elliot, and agrees to a fake romance for the cameras. However, the ruse becomes nearly impossible to maintain as she navigates lingering feelings for her first love and former partner, Freddie O'Connell, amidst the crushing expectations of her demanding father.

Director: Shamim Sarif and Jacqueline Pepall Starring: Madelyn Keys, Cale Ambrozic, Olly Atkins, Alexandra Beaton, and Harmon Walsh

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Poll to pick next weeks Solo Movie Date

Timestamps

• 00:00 — Introduction to Solo Movie Dates
• 01:39 — Overview of Finding Her Edge
• 08:11 — Episode One: Pushing Off
• 26:24 — Episode Two: Shoot the Duck
• 39:14 — Episode Three: Inside Edge
• 52:19 — Episode Four: Kiss & Cry

Finding Her Edge

Following the death of her mother, former ice dancer Adriana Russo returns to the rink to save her family’s legacy and their financially crumbling training academy. When her older sister Elise is sidelined by a serious injury, Adriana is forced into an unlikely partnership with the sport's resident "bad boy," Brayden Elliot. As they play up a fake romance to lure in desperate sponsorships, Adriana must navigate her brewing chemistry with Brayden while facing the return of her first love and former partner, Freddie O’Connell.

Director: Shamim Sarif and Jacqueline Pepall Starring: Madelyn Keys, Cale Ambrozic, Olly Atkins, Alexandra Beaton, and Harmon Walsh

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Timestamps

• 00:00 Welcome, Welcome
• 01:58 Pop culture & Movie News
• 17:12 K-Pop Demon Hunters Trivia
• 22:02 Solo Movie Date | K-Pop Demon Hunters

Pop Culture & Movie News

• Glambot Gate - Jlo being rude once again
• Harry Styles new album— New album release date and tour
• Summer House Split — The shocking official separation of Bravo stars Amanda Batula and Kyle Cooke after nine seasons of relationship drama.
• Beckham Family Feud — A deep dive into Brooklyn Beckham’s explosive Instagram statement and the ongoing tension involving Nicola Peltz and Victoria Beckham.
• Hudson Williams — needs a break!

K-pop Demon Hunters

When they aren't selling out stadiums, K-pop superstars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey use their secret identities as badass demon hunters to protect their fans from an ever-present supernatural threat. Together, they must face their biggest enemy yet: the Saja Boys, an irresistible rival boy band that is actually a group of demons in disguise. As the battle for the human realm intensifies, the girls must navigate the pressures of fame while confronting a secret that threatens to tear their group apart.

Director: Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans Starring: Arden Cho, May Hong, Ji-young Yoo, Ahn Hyo-seop, Yunjin Kim, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, Lee Byung-hun

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We also discuss:

• Golden Globes winners
• Housemaid sequel
• Euphoria trailer
• New ice skating show 'Finding her edge'

People We Meet on Vacation

Adapted from Emily Henry’s #1 New York Times bestselling novel, People We Meet on Vacation is a Netflix original film that captures the decade-long, secret "friends-to-lovers" romance between polar opposites Poppy Wright and Alex Nilsen. Led by director Brett Haley (Hearts Beat Loud), who brings his signature grounded, character-driven intimacy to the story, the production was brought to life by Temple Hill Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the witty banter and emotional depth of the source material, Emily Henry served as an executive producer, while the screenplay was penned by Yulin Kuang (Beach Read), along with Amos Vernon and Nunzio Randazzo.

The film features a breakout cast led by Emily Bader (My Lady Jane) as the vibrant, chaotic Poppy and Tom Blyth (The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes) as the reserved, routine-oriented Alex. The ensemble is rounded out by Jameela Jamil as Poppy’s high-fashion mentor Swapna and Sarah Catherine Hook as Alex's high-school sweetheart Sarah, whose presence provides a poignant look at the difficulty of outgrowing the people you once loved. Celebrated for its lush international cinematography and electric chemistry between the leads, the movie has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance lighthearted travel comedy with a deeply resonant narrative about finding home in a person.

Article on Poppy's outfits

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In this episode we go into some behind the scenes production information before deep diving into episode one

Episode 1: Rookies

The long-guarded walls between Shane and Ilya finally crumble as they retreat to Shane's cottage to build a future on their own terms. After a summer of mutual fidelity and painful admissions regarding Ilya’s past trauma, the pair moves beyond survival tactics to true partnership. Rejecting a plan for a marriage of convenience, Shane proposes a bold path forward: a public "rivalry-turned-friendship," the launch of a joint charity, and a trade that brings Ilya closer to him geographically. This newfound commitment is immediately tested when Shane’s father discovers them together, forcing a vulnerable but successful coming-out moment with his parents. The journey concludes with the pair driving back to their sanctuary, finally able to claim the titles of "boyfriends" and face the world as a united front.

Heated Rivalry

Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, Heated Rivalry is an HBO Max and Crave original series that explores the decade-long, secret "enemies-to-lovers" romance between professional hockey icons Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Led by award-winning showrunner Jacob Tierney (Letterkenny, Shoresy), who wrote and directed the season, the production was brought to life by Accent Aigu Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the emotional depth of the source material, Rachel Reid served as a consulting producer, helping to translate the gritty, high-stakes world of the MLH from the page to the screen.

The series features a breakout cast led by Hudson Williams as the disciplined Canadian captain Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as the complex Russian superstar Ilya Rozanov. The ensemble is rounded out by François Arnaud as the veteran Scott Hunter and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, whose parallel storyline provides a poignant look at the personal costs of the closet. Celebrated for its authentic "Canadianness" and groundbreaking representation of queer athletes, the show has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance intense sports drama with a deeply character-driven narrative.

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

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Today we delve into Episode 2.

Episode 2: Olympians

After 2 years of texting, we're in the fall of 2013. Shane and Ilya finally meet up again. However, the high-pressure atmosphere of the 2014 Sochi Olympics drives a wedge between them, as a crushing loss on the ice leads Ilya to retreat into a cold, protective silence. Despite Shane’s attempts to offer support amidst the risks of navigating a conservative Russian landscape and overbearing family expectations, their connection remains fractured. Even a championship victory and a heated summer reunion at the MLH awards can't bridge the gap, as Ilya’s emotional walls leave Shane questioning if their physical spark is enough to survive the weight of the closet.

Heated Rivalry

Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, Heated Rivalry is an HBO Max and Crave original series that explores the decade-long, secret "enemies-to-lovers" romance between professional hockey icons Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Led by award-winning showrunner Jacob Tierney (Letterkenny, Shoresy), who wrote and directed the season, the production was brought to life by Accent Aigu Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the emotional depth of the source material, Rachel Reid served as a consulting producer, helping to translate the gritty, high-stakes world of the MLH from the page to the screen.

The series features a breakout cast led by Hudson Williams as the disciplined Canadian captain Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as the complex Russian superstar Ilya Rozanov. The ensemble is rounded out by François Arnaud as the veteran Scott Hunter and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, whose parallel storyline provides a poignant look at the personal costs of the closet. Celebrated for its authentic "Canadianness" and groundbreaking representation of queer athletes, the show has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance intense sports drama with a deeply character-driven narrative.

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we delve into Episode 3.

Episode 3: Hunter

Superstition and secrets collide when hockey star Scott attempts to break a scoring slump by visiting a local smoothie shop. What begins as a lucky pre-game ritual with an employee named Kip quickly evolves into a whirlwind romance, leading the two to move in together after just one night. However, the honeymoon phase is short-lived. As Scott struggles with his temper on the ice and the weight of his tragic past as an orphan, his refusal to step out of the closet begins to take a toll on Kip’s self-worth. The tension reaches a breaking point on Kip’s birthday; when Scott’s fear of being outed prevents him from celebrating in public, Kip is forced to choose between a hidden life with the man he loves and the authentic future he deserves.

Heated Rivalry

Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, Heated Rivalry is an HBO Max and Crave original series that explores the decade-long, secret "enemies-to-lovers" romance between professional hockey icons Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Led by award-winning showrunner Jacob Tierney (Letterkenny, Shoresy), who wrote and directed the season, the production was brought to life by Accent Aigu Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the emotional depth of the source material, Rachel Reid served as a consulting producer, helping to translate the gritty, high-stakes world of the MLH from the page to the screen.

The series features a breakout cast led by Hudson Williams as the disciplined Canadian captain Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as the complex Russian superstar Ilya Rozanov. The ensemble is rounded out by François Arnaud as the veteran Scott Hunter and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, whose parallel storyline provides a poignant look at the personal costs of the closet. Celebrated for its authentic "Canadianness" and groundbreaking representation of queer athletes, the show has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance intense sports drama with a deeply character-driven narrative.

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we delve into Episode 4.

Episode 4: Rose

Between 2014 and 2016, Shane and Ilya’s relationship oscillates between professional dominance on the ice and an increasingly complicated secret bond off of it. While their respective teams find massive success, the two continue to downplay their connection to friends, dismissing years of constant texting as nothing serious. However, a rare night of domestic intimacy—complete with shared meals and vulnerable conversations about family—briefly cracks their armor. When an intense physical moment causes Shane to panic and flee, he seeks refuge in a high-profile public romance with actress Rose Landry. The move triggers a toxic cycle of jealousy that culminates in a tense nightclub confrontation in Montreal, where both men use others to wound one another. The episode closes on a haunting note of longing, proving that despite their public posturing and new partners, they remain obsessively tethered to each other.

Heated Rivalry

Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, Heated Rivalry is an HBO Max and Crave original series that explores the decade-long, secret "enemies-to-lovers" romance between professional hockey icons Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Led by award-winning showrunner Jacob Tierney (Letterkenny, Shoresy), who wrote and directed the season, the production was brought to life by Accent Aigu Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the emotional depth of the source material, Rachel Reid served as a consulting producer, helping to translate the gritty, high-stakes world of the MLH from the page to the screen.

The series features a breakout cast led by Hudson Williams as the disciplined Canadian captain Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as the complex Russian superstar Ilya Rozanov. The ensemble is rounded out by François Arnaud as the veteran Scott Hunter and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, whose parallel storyline provides a poignant look at the personal costs of the closet. Celebrated for its authentic "Canadianness" and groundbreaking representation of queer athletes, the show has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance intense sports drama with a deeply character-driven narrative.

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we delve into Episode 5.

Episode 5: I’ll Believe in Anything

The secret between Shane and Ilya finally reaches a turning point as Shane comes out privately to Rose, choosing friendship over their public facade. At the 2017 All-Star Game, the pair is forced onto the same team, leading to a raw confrontation where Ilya admits that his fear of Russian cultural expectations and family pressure is the only thing keeping them apart. However, the death of Ilya’s father and a subsequent fallout with his brother strip away his final defenses, leading to a tearful, late-night confession of love. When Shane is later hospitalized after a brutal game, he invites Ilya to his family cottage to recover. The final push comes from an unexpected source: seeing their peer, Scott, courageously come out on national television after winning the MLH Cup. Moved by Scott's bravery and his own longing, Ilya finally chooses a future with Shane, accepting the invitation to start their lives together away from the spotlight.

Heated Rivalry

Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, Heated Rivalry is an HBO Max and Crave original series that explores the decade-long, secret "enemies-to-lovers" romance between professional hockey icons Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Led by award-winning showrunner Jacob Tierney (Letterkenny, Shoresy), who wrote and directed the season, the production was brought to life by Accent Aigu Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the emotional depth of the source material, Rachel Reid served as a consulting producer, helping to translate the gritty, high-stakes world of the MLH from the page to the screen.

The series features a breakout cast led by Hudson Williams as the disciplined Canadian captain Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as the complex Russian superstar Ilya Rozanov. The ensemble is rounded out by François Arnaud as the veteran Scott Hunter and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, whose parallel storyline provides a poignant look at the personal costs of the closet. Celebrated for its authentic "Canadianness" and groundbreaking representation of queer athletes, the show has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance intense sports drama with a deeply character-driven narrative.

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we delve into Episode 6.

Episode 6: The cottage

The long-guarded walls between Shane and Ilya finally crumble as they retreat to Shane's cottage to build a future on their own terms. After a summer of mutual fidelity and painful admissions regarding Ilya’s past trauma, the pair moves beyond survival tactics to true partnership. Rejecting a plan for a marriage of convenience, Shane proposes a bold path forward: a public "rivalry-turned-friendship," the launch of a joint charity, and a trade that brings Ilya closer to him geographically. This newfound commitment is immediately tested when Shane’s father discovers them together, forcing a vulnerable but successful coming-out moment with his parents. The journey concludes with the pair driving back to their sanctuary, finally able to claim the titles of "boyfriends" and face the world as a united front.

Heated Rivalry

Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, Heated Rivalry is an HBO Max and Crave original series that explores the decade-long, secret "enemies-to-lovers" romance between professional hockey icons Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Led by award-winning showrunner Jacob Tierney (Letterkenny, Shoresy), who wrote and directed the season, the production was brought to life by Accent Aigu Entertainment. To ensure the adaptation stayed true to the emotional depth of the source material, Rachel Reid served as a consulting producer, helping to translate the gritty, high-stakes world of the MLH from the page to the screen.

The series features a breakout cast led by Hudson Williams as the disciplined Canadian captain Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as the complex Russian superstar Ilya Rozanov. The ensemble is rounded out by François Arnaud as the veteran Scott Hunter and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, whose parallel storyline provides a poignant look at the personal costs of the closet. Celebrated for its authentic "Canadianness" and groundbreaking representation of queer athletes, the show has been hailed for its raw intimacy and its ability to balance intense sports drama with a deeply character-driven narrative.

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We do a full deep dive into 1950s New York, but before that we also discuss Season 6 of Emily in Paris, the Critic's Choice awards including Timmy thanking Kylie Jenner and announcing their 3 year relationship.

Marty Supreme A bold, stylish biopic loosely based on the life of Marty Reisman, a world-champion table tennis player and professional hustler. The film follows his journey from the streets of Manhattan to the international stage as he navigates fame, family friction, and his own relentless ego in a quest for prestige and a signature orange ball.

Director: Josh Safdie Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa Azzion, Fran Drescher, and Koto Kawaguchi

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Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

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We meet Rose, play on the same team, have some serious conversations, go to a cottage and fall in love.

Come in as we deep dive episode by episode and find out why this is the best show of the year!

Heated Rivalry In the high-stakes world of professional hockey, superstars Shane Hollander and Ilya Rosanov are bitter rivals on the ice and secret lovers off of it. Spanning nine years, the series follows their complex evolution from rookie competitors to seasoned captains as they navigate the pressures of fame, family expectations, and the risks of being closeted in a professional sports environment.

Director: Jacob Tierney Starring: Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, Scott Hunter, Kit Williams

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

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We are diving deep into the world of professional hockey and the beautiful, complex relationship between rivals Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov.

Looking at how showrunner Jacob Tierney took a popular MLM romance novel and turned it into a global phenomenon that’s being covered by the New York Times.

We talk through casting, production and season two before deep diving into the first three episodes.

Heated Rivalry In the high-stakes world of professional hockey, superstars Shane Hollander and Ilya Rosanov are bitter rivals on the ice and secret lovers off of it. Spanning nine years, the series follows their complex evolution from rookie competitors to seasoned captains as they navigate the pressures of fame, family expectations, and the risks of being closeted in a professional sports environment.

Director: Jacob Tierney Starring: Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, Scott Hunter, Kit Williams

Join the Community: Come and join us on Patreon on Instagram to talk more about films, pop culture and all things Solo Movie Dates

Support the Show: If you’ve listened to more than one episode, I’d really appreciate a follow or a subscribe. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a little five-star review!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's date, we start with a heavy pop culture debrief. We obsess over the "soulmate" chemistry between Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams in Heated Rivalry, a show so massive that episode five is now tied with Breaking Bad as the highest-rated episode of TV on IMDb. We also dive into Jennifer Lawrence’s chaotic week, from testing Cynthia Erivo’s synesthesia by singing random notes to her cheeky dig at Leonardo DiCaprio’s dating history during an "Actors on Actors" session. Plus, we give a lukewarm nod to Chris Evans officially returning to the MCU as Captain America in the new Avengers: Doomsday teaser.

Then, we get into The Housemaid, a film that shares the same director as A Simple Favor but handles much heavier subject matter. We break down the absolute "exposition overload" of the narration and the questionable choice to have Sydney Sweeney’s character, Millie, lounge around in the lowest-cut top imaginable while watching Family Feud with her boss at 3 a.m.. We critique the movie’s bizarre changes from the book—specifically the shift from psychological torture to a graphic stomach-cutting scene that feels totally out of character for a perfectionist abuser. From the "underused" Enzo standing silently in the garden to Millie’s refusal to clean her infected wounds before becoming a vigilante housemaid, leaving no plot hole unexamined.

The Housemaid A struggling young woman with a dark secret, Millie Calloway, is hired as a live-in housemaid for the wealthy Winchester family. She soon discovers that the family’s sparkling Long Island life hides a cycle of domestic abuse, psychological warfare, and a dangerous trap set by the mistress of the house. Director: Paul Feig Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, Elizabeth Perkins, Michele Morrone

Links

The Artist Way

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Happy Holidays from Solo Movie Dates!

Just want to say thank you and let you know there will be no new episode this week.

Whether you’re spending the day with family or sneaking away for some much-needed "solo time" with an insanely good movie, I hope your holiday is lovely.

Coming up next:

• New Patreon: Join our free community to help vote on what we watch next—from award winners to terrible Netflix rom-coms.
• Next Week: We’ll be back in full force to discuss The Housemaid.

See you then for our next solo movie date!

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On this week's date, we start with a heavy pop culture debrief. We obsess over the Heated Rivalry boys finally getting the respect their bums deserve, Millie Alcock’s chaotic energy in the Supergirl trailer, and Paul Feig teasing a new ending for The Housemaid. Plus, we check the Oscars shortlist where Wicked and Sinners are leading the pack, and K-pop Demon Hunters scores a surprise song nomination.

Then, we get into Tell Me Softly, a Spanish teen drama where everyone is obsessed with a trauma bond from when they were ten. We try to figure out why Taylor keeps a copy of the Kama Sutra in his bedroom, why Thiago is allowed to run school trips with zero supervision, and why the male gaze in this movie is so intense it practically needs its own credit. We also discuss the baffling dubbing choices, the milkshake power play that wasn’t, and why Julian the incel is the scariest character in the franchise.

Tell Me Softly (Dímelo bajito) Kamila Hamilton had everything under control... or so she thought. Seven years ago, Thiago was the one who gave her her first kiss, and Taylor was the one who always protected her. Now, the Di Bianco brothers have returned to turn her world upside down again. Director: Denis Rovira Starring: Alicia Falcó, Fernando Lindez, Diego Vidales

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On this week's date, we start with a heavy pop culture debrief. We break down the news that Overcompensating season two has been greenlit and spiral over Mary Beth Barone having her ex of four years, Edward Blumenthal, on her podcast. We also discuss the obsession with Heated Rivalry (which has more than two gay people!) and dissect the new Emily in Paris trailer where she is inexplicably qualified to run the Rome office. Plus, we cover the People We Meet on Vacation trailer starring the girl from My Lady Jane and President Snow, and the existential dread of Netflix potentially buying Warner Brothers.

Then, we get into My Secret Santa. We discuss Taylor getting fired from a cookie shop and immediately deciding to dress up as a man named "Hugh Man" to work as a Santa. We try to understand why the 55-year-old landlady is aggressively flirting with an 80-year-old Santa and why the nepo baby love interest, Matthew, destroys a car and is immediately made General Manager. We also unpack the "Screaming Kittens" punk band backstory, the scene where Matthew thinks Santa is hooking up in a bathroom stall, and why Santa lives or dies by going viral.

My Secret Santa After losing her job, a single mother disguises herself as an elderly man to get hired as a local ski resort's Santa Claus, only to fall for the owner's son while in disguise. Director: Mike Rohl Starring: Alexandra Breckenridge, Ryan Eggold, Tia Mowry

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On this week's date, we start with a heavy pop culture debrief. We break down the Wicked press tour memes, Quentin Tarantino’s chilly take that The Hunger Games is just a Battle Royale ripoff, and the Mike Flanagan cinematic universe expanding to Carrie and The Exorcist with Scarlett Johansson. Plus, we obsess over the hockey romance Heated Rivalry and any TV recs you can share.

Then, we get into Champagne Problems, a movie that refused to license the Taylor Swift song of the same name. We discuss the lack of chemistry, the insanity of making a lactose-intolerant protagonist eat a cheese board before a festival, and the complete lack of ROI in Sydney’s business pitches. We also celebrate Roberto as the only bright spot in a dull cast, question why Riley from Twilight is suddenly the villain, and try to figure out if the concierge was actually magic.

Champagne Problems A merger and acquisitions executive flies to Paris to acquire a family-owned champagne brand, only to fall for the owner's son and realize that business and pleasure might actually mix. Director: Mark Steven Johnson Starring: Minka Kelly, Tom Wozniczka, Sean Amsing, Flula Borg, Xavier Samuel

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On this week's date, we start with a stacked pop culture debrief. We obsess over the "Midsummer vibes" and casting of Joseph Zada in Sunrise on the Reaping, predict that Paris Hilton’s Infinite Icon will be the campest thing ever, and breakdown the weirdly serious "interviewing each other" format of the new Avatar 3 promo. We also celebrate the return of Stranger Things and lament a Pilates class mix-up that resulted in an accidental "Dynamic" session.

Then, we fly into the second act of Wicked. We break down the "depressing but brilliant" shift in tone, questioning everything from Elphaba's drafty "Thanos-style" treehouse to the logistics of a Yellow Brick Road that's only four people wide. We discuss Glinda's "girl boss" era, the awkwardness of the Fiyero/Glinda PR engagement, and why Elphaba decided to wear a giant Lenny Kravitz knit for her big romantic moment. Finally, we analyze the emotional weight of "For Good," the terrifying dictatorship of Nessa Rose, and that perfect closing shot.

Wicked Part Two: For Good Elphaba and Glinda's journey continues in the second chapter of the cinematic adaptation of the legendary musical. Now the most hated figure in Oz, Elphaba lives in exile while Glinda basks in popularity as the Wizard’s public face. As dark secrets about the Wizard’s regime come to light and a girl from Kansas drops a house on the Governor of Munchkinland, the two witches must reconcile their differences to change Oz for the better. Director: Jon M. Chu Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater

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On this week's date, we start with a heavy pop culture debrief. We analyze the current "downfall" of Sydney Sweeney, covering everything from her controversial jeans campaign to the rumors that Zendaya is refusing to do press with her. We also check in on "Wife Guy" Ned Fulmer’s failed apology video, and react to the viral moment of Jacob Elordi licking a wall in the new Wuthering Heights trailer.

Then, we get into the third installment of the magic franchise that asks: are they magicians or superheroes? We discuss why the new Gen Z cast (Dominic Sessa, Justice Smith, Ariana Greenblatt) outshines the OG crew, question why Isla Fisher refuses to take off her six-inch heels even during a heist, and beg Dominic Sessa to fix his stressful neck posture. Plus, we break down the "crypto bro" take-down, the wet t-shirt contest in the glass box, and why Rosamund Pike’s South African accent is pretty good.

Now You See Me, Now You Don't The Four Horsemen resurface to team up with a new generation of magicians to steal a massive diamond from a corrupt South African mogul, leading to a high-stakes heist across Europe and the Middle East. Director: Ruben Fleischer Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, Lizzy Caplan, Rosamund Pike, Morgan Freeman, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt

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On this week's date, we start with a heavy pop culture debrief. We break down the incredible news that Emma Stone and Jennifer Lawrence are producing a Miss Piggy movie written by Cole Escola, and we obsess over J-Law and Robert Pattinson's chaotic friendship—specifically the time she fed him leftovers she’d already thrown away. Plus, we correct the record on Stranger Things hitting theaters and celebrate the return of the OG cast for a new Mummy movie directed by the Ready or Not team.

Then, we get into Bugonia. After a quick rant about the logistical nightmare of the London Film Festival, we dive into Yorgos Lanthimos’s latest mind-bender. We discuss Teddy’s anti-capitalist conspiracy theories, the tragedy of Don blindly following along, and the hilarity of Emma Stone using corporate buzzwords like "let's focus on solutions, not blame" while tied to a bedframe. We also cover the gross lack of protein in their spaghetti, the "is she/isn't she" alien debate, and that jaw-dropping ending that wipes out humanity with a single pop.

Bugonia Two conspiracy-obsessed young men kidnap the high-powered CEO of a major pharmaceutical company, convinced she is an alien intent on destroying Earth. Director: Yorgos Lanthimos Starring: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Aidan Delbis, Alicia Silverstone, Stavros Halkias

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We are watching Brett Goldstein’s All of You. But before we get into the messy timeline of affairs and soulmates, we have a packed movie pop culture debrief. We’re discussing the "girlboss" energy of the recent Louvre heist (why did they do it at 9:30am?), the sudden rise of "Group 7" on TikTok, and the massive news that Twilight is returning to cinemas for its 20th anniversary. I also give a London Film Festival update, covering Brendan Fraser’s new film Rental Family and Chloe Zhao’s tear-jerker Hamnet starring Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley.

Then, we dive into the main event: All of You. We break down the incredible chemistry between Goldstein and Imogen Poots, the moral conflict of rooting for a toxic affair, and how facial hair is used as the primary method of telling time. We also discuss why the "soulmate test" premise feels slightly underused, the realism of asking for MDMA at a fancy hotel, and I get completely derailed mid-episode by discovering a secret compartment in my water bottle.

Movie Breakdown:

• Film: All of You
• Director: William Bridges
• Cast: Brett Goldstein (Simon), Imogen Poots (Laura), Zawe Ashton (Andrea), and Steven Cree (Lucas).
• Screenplay: William Bridges and Brett Goldstein.
• Synopsis: Set in a near-future world where a test can scientifically determine your one true soulmate, best friends Simon and Laura face a dilemma. Laura takes the test and is matched with someone else, while Simon—who secretly loves her—refuses to take it. Spanning over a decade, the film explores the complex, messy, and enduring bond between them as they navigate marriages, heartbreaks, and the question of whether science can truly dictate love.

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We are jumping straight in to discuss Bella’s dramatic Arizona cactus props, the undeniable allure of the franchise's "hot dads" (Charlie Swan and Dr. Cullen), and the questionable population logistics of Forks High School—specifically how a town of 3,000 people supports a football team, a swim team, and a prom with only 50 attendees.

We break down the "incestuous" vibes of the Cullen foster home, Edward’s severe lack of emotional regulation, and the iconic baseball scene that features high-kicks and Muse. Plus, we analyze Robert Pattinson’s "rockstar" sunglasses entrance, the chaos of the ballet studio finale, and why Emmett needs to be arrested immediately for wearing his baseball cap sideways.

Movie Breakdown:

• Synopsis: High-school student Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), always a bit of a misfit, doesn't expect much when she moves to the small, rainy town of Forks, Washington, to live with her father. She is soon drawn to a mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), who reveals himself to be a 108-year-old vampire. Despite the danger, they fall in love, forcing Edward and his family to protect Bella from a coven of hostile vampires who are tracking her.
• Director: Catherine Hardwicke
• Writers: Melissa Rosenberg (screenplay), Stephenie Meyer (novel)
• Main Cast: Kristen Stewart (Bella Swan), Robert Pattinson (Edward Cullen), Billy Burke (Charlie Swan), Peter Facinelli (Dr. Carlisle Cullen), Elizabeth Reaser (Esme Cullen), Ashley Greene (Alice Cullen), Jackson Rathbone (Jasper Hale), Nikki Reed (Rosalie Hale), Kellan Lutz (Emmett Cullen), Cam Gigandet (James), Taylor Lautner (Jacob Black).

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We talk through Our Fault and revisit the My Fault trilogy.

We also discuss streaming updates — including Stranger Things, Bridgerton, and Red, White & Royal Blue before diving into the newest (and hopefully last) installment in the My Fault trilogy.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

01:23 Movie News & Pop Culture: Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Red, White & Royal Blue

04:42 Overview of the My Fault Trilogy

13:52 Solo Movie Dates | Our Fault

OUR FAULT

Our Fault (2025) is a romance drama directed by Domingo González and based on Mercedes Ron’s bestselling books. The film stars Nicole Wallace and Gabriel Guevara as Noah and Nick — star-crossed step-siblings navigating love, chaos, and family drama.

After years apart, a family wedding pulls them back into each other’s orbit, reigniting all the old tension and emotion fans love. With its glossy visuals, steamy chemistry, and forbidden-love intensity, Our Fault wraps up the My Fault trilogy in messy, addictive fashion.

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We talk through Bring Her Back and unpack its haunting story and performances.

We also discuss the latest movie news, trailers, and cinema gossip before diving into this chilling new release from the Philippou brothers.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Solo Movie Date | Bring Her Back

BRING HER BACK

Bring Her Back (2025), written by Danny Philippou and Bill Hinzman and directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, tells the haunting story of orphaned step-siblings Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong), who enter foster care after their father’s sudden death. When they move in with Laura (Sally Hawkins), a mysterious woman mourning her own deceased daughter, the siblings begin to uncover occult rituals and sinister intentions lurking beneath her maternal façade.

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We talk through Weapons and unpack its chilling mystery and performances.

We also discuss the latest movie news, trailers, and gossip before diving into Zach Cregger’s eerie new horror release.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 INTRO

01:26 Zach Cregger + Barbarian

03:53 Solo Movie Date | Weapons

WEAPONS

Weapons (2025), written and directed by Zach Cregger, is a chilling mystery-horror in which seventeen children from a single classroom vanish overnight at exactly 2:17 a.m., leaving only one child—Alex (Cary Christopher)—behind. As the distraught teacher Justine (Julia Garner) and grieving parent Archer (Josh Brolin) dig into the mystery, a tangled web emerges involving a haunted aunt Gladys (Amy Madigan), a conflicted cop Paul (Alden Ehrenreich), and an eerie principal Marcus (Benedict Wong) whose connections to the disappearances grow increasingly sinister.

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We talk through Tron: Ares, the original Tron, and Tron: Legacy.

We also discuss the current Oscars race and an update on Wicked, as well as the new Oceans prequel with Margot Robbie and the London Film Festival, including my viewing of Bugonia and seeing Yorgos Lanthimos himself talk through his career to date.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:08 Intro

00:52 Movie news / Pop culture recap

06:38 Solo Movie Date

07:21 Tron + Tron: Legacy Recap

19:59 Solo Movie Dates | Tron: Ares

TRON: ARES

Tron: Ares (2025), directed by Joachim Rønning, is the third film in the Tron franchise, following Tron (1982) and Tron: Legacy (2010). The story follows Ares, a powerful artificial intelligence brought from the digital Grid into the real world, igniting a high-stakes conflict between tech empires over a “permanence code” that could stabilize digital life in reality.

Jared Leto stars as Ares alongside Greta Lee as ENCOM CEO Eve Kim, Evan Peters as rival tech head Julian Dillinger, Jodie Turner-Smith, Hasan Minhaj, Arturo Castro, Cameron Monaghan, Sarah Desjardins, Gillian Anderson, and Jeff Bridges reprising his role as Kevin Flynn. The screenplay is by Jesse Wigutow from a story by David DiGilio and original Tron creator Steven Lisberger, with cinematography by Jeff Cronenweth, editing by Tyler Nelson, and a score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross of Nine Inch Nails.

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We talk through The Smashing Machine and unpack its performances, story, and Safdie’s signature style.

We also discuss the new Taylor Swift album “The Life of a Showgirl,” Josh Safdie’s Timothée Chalamet–starring ping pong movie Marty Supreme, and Bad Bunny playing the Super Bowl, plus my failed attempt to get to Glasgow.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates

01:00 The Life of a Showgirl

04:52 Marty Supreme

05:47 Bad Bunny Super Bowl

06:44 Solo Movie Date

13:13 The Smashing Machine Recap

THE SMASHING MACHINE

The Smashing Machine (2025) is a gritty biographical sports drama directed, written, and co-produced by Benny Safdie. The film stars Dwayne Johnson in a transformative performance as mixed martial arts legend Mark Kerr, chronicling his meteoric rise in the late 1990s, his battles with addiction, and the emotional strain on his relationship with Dawn Staples (Emily Blunt).

Featuring supporting roles from Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten, and Oleksandr Usyk, and shot on 16mm film with a score by Nala Sinephro, The Smashing Machine captures the chaos and vulnerability behind the cage. It premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, where Safdie won the Silver Lion, and was released in theaters by A24. In cinemas now.

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We talk through One Battle After Another and unpack its story, performances, and standout moments.

We also discuss movie news, pop culture, and new trailers — including the new Wicked trailer and the upcoming Taylor Swift album.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates

01:07 Movie news & pop culture update

02:37 Solo Movie Date: One Battle After Another

ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER

One Battle After Another (2025), written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, is a war drama starring Leonardo DiCaprio as Bob Ferguson, a former revolutionary forced out of hiding when his old rival Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw (Sean Penn) resurfaces and threatens his daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti). The ensemble includes Benicio del Toro as Sergio, Regina Hall as Deandra, and Teyana Taylor as Perfidia.

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We talk through The Long Walk and unpack its performances, themes, and adaptation of Stephen King’s story.

We also discuss the latest movie news, pop culture updates, and cinema gossip — including that whole Ned Fulmer situation, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and the new Edgar Wright movie, The Running Man.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction to Solo Movie Dates

00:22 Pop Culture and Movie Gossip

18:05 Solo Movie Date | The Long Walk

01:11:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

THE LONG WALK

The Long Walk (2025), directed by Francis Lawrence and adapted by JT Mollner from Stephen King’s novel (written under his pseudonym Richard Bachman), follows Cooper Hoffman as Ray Garraty — one of fifty teenage boys forced to walk at 3 mph or be “terminated.”

Alongside Hoffman, the film features David Jonsson (Alien: Romulus), Garrett Wareing, Tut Nyuot, Charlie Plummer, Ben Wang, Roman Griffin Davis, Joshua Odjick, Judy Greer, and Mark Hamill as the Major.

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We talk through The Wrong Paris and unpack its story, cast, and all the reality TV chaos.

We also discuss the latest movie news and cinema gossip, including my London Film Festival haul, the new trailer for Twinless, and the upcoming Knives Out sequel.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:06 Intro

00:51 Movie gossip and trailers

11:24 Solo Movie Date | The Wrong Paris

THE WRONG PARIS

The Wrong Paris (2025), directed by Janeen Damian and written by Nicole Henrich, stars Miranda Cosgrove as Dawn, a young artist who joins a reality dating show to earn money for art school in Paris — only to discover the competition is actually set in Paris, Texas, with the bachelor being cowboy Trey McAllen III (Pierson Fodé).

As Dawn tries to get eliminated quickly, she clashes with rival contestants, crafty producers, and her own growing attraction to Trey, forcing her to choose between love and ambition. The film also features Frances Fisher, Madison Pettis, Madeleine Arthur, and Emilija Baranac.

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TW: Sexual Assault

We talk through Sorry, Baby and unpack its story, performances, and emotional impact.

We also discuss the London Film Festival, the new Wuthering Heights teaser trailer, Bugonia, and Hamnet.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:06 Intro

00:54 Movie gossip and trailers

09:23 Solo Movie Date setting

15:20 Solo Movie Date | Sorry, Baby

SORRY, BABY

Sorry, Baby (2025), written and directed by Eva Victor, follows Agnes (Victor), a sharp but emotionally wounded English professor in rural New England whose life is upended when her estranged friend Lydie (Naomi Ackie) returns with unexpected news. As past wounds resurface, Agnes struggles to reconcile her grief with the possibility of new connections, leaning on her awkward neighbor Gavin (Lucas Hedges) while confronting the influence of her former advisor Preston Decker (Louis Cancelmi).

The ensemble also features Kelly McCormack and John Carroll Lynch, blending dark humor with emotional honesty in a story of friendship, trauma, and the fragile hope of moving forward.

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We talk through Caught Stealing and unpack its story, performances, and signature Aronofsky tension.

We also discuss the latest movie news, trailers, and cinema gossip — including Austin Butler at the Bad Bunny show, Zoë Kravitz and Austin looking hot on the press tour, and rumors that Zoë Kravitz might be dating Harry Styles — before diving into this gritty New York thriller.

So get comfy and let’s jump into our Solo Movie Date.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 INTRO

04:40 Gossip around the movie

06:41 Solo Movie Date | Caught Stealing

19:38 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

CAUGHT STEALING

Caught Stealing (2025), directed by Darren Aronofsky and written by Charlie Huston, follows Hank Thompson (Austin Butler), a former baseball phenom turned New York bartender whose life spirals into chaos after agreeing to care for his punk neighbor Russ’s cat.

Suddenly, Hank is ensnared by ruthless gangsters demanding a mysterious key—and must use all his wit and grit to survive. The star-studded cast includes Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber, Vincent D’Onofrio, Griffin Dunne, Bad Bunny, and Carol Kane.

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