"Shouldn't Be a Drama"
— Alan Cumming's favorite phrase
If you’re also sick of rich and famous men revving up their rockets for a few minutes of floating in outer space (the ultimate “ego boost”), while the temperatures are rising, we’re dealing with major supply chain hold-ups, and women’s rights are still grossly restricted down here on earth, send this to a man you love. ;)
1.
Squid Games is arguably the most talked-about show on television right now, but if anyone needs a break between the intense episodes, I’d urge you to watch the 10-minute Balenciaga x Simpsons episode that premiered as part of the brand’s Spring 2022 red-carpet runway show. The result of a year-plus collaboration, it’s full of LOL-worthy gems and humorous winks for fans of both parties. And apparently the cartoon’s creators met their match in creative director Demna Gvasalia’s pursuit for excellence. In this recent NYT story outlining the exacting collaborative process, the Simpsons’ executive producer and writer Al Jean deemed the 10-minute short the hardest thing the animation staff had taken on since the Simpson’s 2007 feature-length film.
2.
Wish I Were There: I’m very excited for the release of Wes Anderson’s newest film, The French Dispatch, later this month, though I know it won’t do much to weaken the heavy hits of wanderlust I’ve felt since getting back from Europe last week. Fans in London will at least be able to take in a slightly more immersive traveler’s experience at the Accidentally Wes Anderson pop-up installation at the The Old Bank Vault (October 16-November 7), including a clever station for writing post cards home.
3.
When your psychically-connected neighbor gifts you with a bottle of pure Vermont maple syrup the same day you happen to flag this cake recipe, you sort of owe it to the cosmos to complete the circle, bake a loaf, and promptly deliver some warm slices ;)
4.
I’m not wishing for it to get biting cold just yet, just wishing for a cozy balaclava and enough of a chill in the air to warrant wearing one.
5.
More than the magazine, I’ve been really nerding out on the Harper’s Index lately. (Sorry if I’m late to the party.)