March always delivers when it comes to standout media. From an anxiously charged film to a dreamy music album, these recent picks explore media pieces that inspire, comfort and educate. Whether you’re looking for a weekend binge or a soundtrack for your walk to class, these five selections will satisfy.
Film: “L’Avventura” (Michelangelo Antonioni, 1960)
From film director Michelangelo Antonioni, “L’Avventura” is considered a cornerstone of Italian cinema and remains a haunting exploration of absence. The film follows a group of wealthy friends as they embark on a yachting trip off the coast of Sicily, where one of them, Anna (Lea Massari), mysteriously disappears.
The events that follow Anna’s disappearance don’t unfold like a traditional mystery. Instead, the film dives deeper into the emptiness of modern life through the remaining characters, Sandro (Gabriele Ferzetti) and Claudia (Monica Vitti).
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Antonioni’s meticulous use of continuous shots and minimal dialogue emphasizes mood over plot, calling viewers to pay close attention to physical displays of emotion. Vitti’s performance as Claudia beautifully captures the moral confusion she experiences after Anna’s disappearance as she develops feelings for Anna’s boyfriend, Sandro.
TV Series: “The Studio” (Seth Rogen, 2025)
Seth Rogen’s “The Studio” works to pull aside an industry curtain, delivering sharp commentary on film production through a blend of comedy and drama. The series is set in Hollywood and follows Matt Remick (Seth Rogen), the newly appointed head of Continental Studios.
The series debuted March 26 on Apple TV+ and its first two episodes captured its audience with a star-studded ensemble, delving into the internal chaos and corporate greed present within the film industry. Audiences know Rogen well for his humorous societal critiques, and “The Studio” delivers just that.
The powerhouse of a cast is led by Rogen, Catherine O’Hara and Ike Barinholtz, bringing together rising stars and comedy veterans to capture the landscape of Hollywood. The guest lineup is just as impressive, featuring beloved icons like Martin Scorsese, Charlize Theron and Bryan Cranston, alongside a mix of other A-list actors. If you are passionate about the film industry or just looking for a fun, fast-beat series, “The Studio” is worth your time.
Podcast: “If Books Could Kill” (Michael Hobbes, Peter Shamshiri, 2022)
“If Books Could Kill” explores “The airport bestsellers that captured our hearts and ruined our minds” that have driven public discourse, often due to their questionable logic. Journalist Michael Hobbes and lawyer Peter Shamshiri dissect popular nonfiction books, exposing their flawed arguments and inherent biases.
Its seventh and most notable episode discusses “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne, breaking down its pseudoscientific claims with sharp wit and thorough research. Hobbes and Shamshiri’s chemistry, combined with their critical approach, results in an entertaining listen for those who enjoy challenging established beliefs.
Book: “Just Kids” by Patti Smith (2010)
In her best-selling memoir “Just Kids,” Patti Smith documents her early life in New York City through her profound relationship with American photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.
Smith uses her experience as a punk rock pioneer and respected poet to deliver a moving story about love, rebellious spirit and creative drive. “Just Kids” is more than just a memoir — it charmingly represents New York City’s underground art scene in the ’70s.
Whether you’re drawn to love stories, artistic struggle or both, “Just Kids” is a heartfelt read that lingers long after the final page.
Music Album: “Images” by You’ll Never Get to Heaven (2017)
Released in the spring of 2017, “Images” by You’ll Never Get to Heaven is an album to return to when the sun begins to break through the dreary winter clouds. The Canadian duo, Alice Hansen and Chuck Blazevic, bring their talent together in this abstract emotional experience of an album.
The track “White Light” demonstrates Hansen’s gentle vocals, moving with shimmering synthesizer sound and repeating guitar patterns. The track “Beyond the Clouds” achieves the album’s sense of nostalgia and longing through its combination of minimalist beats and lush textures.
“Images” is more than just spring day background music — it’s an emotional experience that invites you to get lost in its delicate layers.
