Friday Fixations
What I'm into right now
Happy Friday, my fellow suffering beings. Each week, I share two things I’m digging right now (books, TV shows, movies, music, and the like) plus one online video of nearly zero cultural merit.
White Lotus, Season 3: I was told there would be Buddhist themes in the latest season of Mike White’s excellent HBO drama series—especially since it’s set in Thailand. So far, however, there have only been a few passing (but well-executed) nods to the dharma. (See: Sam Rockwell’s wild, hilarious soliloquy in Episode 5.) Dharma or not, the show remains excellent. I know some critics are down on this season, but I’m not. Largely because of bravura performances from Walton Goggins, Parker Posey, and my friend (and former pod guest) Natasha Rothwell. If and when they finally go deeper on Buddhism, I’ll report back.
Black Box Diaries: Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars this year, it’s a tale of extraordinary courage on the part of a young Japanese woman who was raped by a much older man posing as a professional mentor. She goes up against the country’s male-dominated culture at great personal risk.
Best marching band ever.
Agree or disagree with these recommendations? Subscribers can comment on this and all other posts. You can also chat with me, my staff, pod guests, and one another. And there’s lots more: ad-free versions of my podcast; cheatsheets for every episode (which include time-stamped highlights and full transcripts); and twice-monthly live video sessions where I guide meditation and take questions. Join the party.
Rage Against the Machine may be on repeat today!
I just LOVED the marching band! I was actually choked up a little watching it because I was so moved by the unabashed joy in those kids brought about by an incredible band director’s ability to “see” them and enthusiastic willingness to meet them where they are. Now THAT’s the way to instill love and appreciation for the arts! Bravo!