Each week, Daily Arts writers evaluate the latest movies, shows, books, music, games and more. They watch, read and listen for the next standout artistic trends and then write about what that means for us in the art world and beyond. Come Friday, we highlight what Daily Arts loved most — here’s what will keep you captivated this weekend.
— Zoe Phillips and Elise Godfryd, Managing Arts Editors
Listen to: The Moon And Stars by Valerie June
“Unmistakably similar to all of June’s usual moving narratives and trademark mix of blues, country and R&B, The Moon And Stars doesn’t fail to bring something new to the table either. June’s latest album is almost painfully tender and captivating in some moments, triumphant in its beauty and originality in all the rest. Stylistically anchored in June’s familiar folk and blues style, The Moon And Stars isn’t afraid to experiment by tossing in some pop, esoteric self-discovery and unconventional song structure to stay fresh.”
Read more from Madeleine Virginia Gannon here.
Watch: “Sophie Jones” directed by Jessica Barr
“From the first ten minutes of “Sophie Jones,” you know that you’re watching something distinct. The first scene with Sophie sitting with and tasting her mother’s ashes — which is obviously quite unsettling — is immediately followed by her going on a date and eventually hooking up with her friend Kevin (Skyler Verity, “Heartthrob”). These two scenes are clearly different in subject, but when placed together they set the tone for the rest of the film. Sophie is growing as she grieves, and it’s messy, awkward and joyous all at once.”
Read more from Judith Lawrence here.
Read: “The Math Campers” by Dan Chiasson
“Instead of wrapping up every poem nicely in one page, the poems take shape over time and space, meaning that the reader must make a concentrated effort to maintain focus. This can be difficult because the poems often have no clear beginning, middle or end. Freed from the constraints of linear narrative, Chiasson experiments with form and function. Lesser poets, perhaps, would get lost in the myriad voices and seemingly rambling trains of thought Chiasson incorporates, but he proves himself to have a true mastery of language and his own writing style.”
Read more from Emilia Ferrante here.
Attend: “SLUT: The Play” from Basement Arts
““SLUT: The Play,” written by American playwright Katie Cappiello, premiering virtually this Saturday, March 20 at 8 p.m. The show centers around a 16-year-old victim of sexual assault played by SMTD freshman Mackenzie Holley. Through her interactions with both her friends and law enforcement in the wake of her attack, this play demonstrates how slut shaming, victim blaming and objectification can harm victims and obstruct justice.”
Read more from Micah Golan here.
Attend: “Emotional Creature” at the State Theater on Friday at 8 p.m.
“While adaptation can be a confusing process, as reforming a person’s story and language for a new vision often leaves room for doubt, director Levana Wang was anything but doubtful about how her vision could come to fruition.
‘We started planning this project back in September … It was just an idea that was circulating in my head. But once I have an idea, I know I have to make it happen,’ Wang said.”
Read more from Matthew Eggers here.