Here’s 10 Pop Culture Moments To Be Thankful For In 2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of pop culture, this year has already proven to be a year of memorable moments that have left us feeling thankful. From the new movie releases to shocking celebrity news, 2023 has gifted us with a tapestry of entertainment that continues to captivate and inspire. With Thanksgiving upon us, let’s look back at the crazy moments that shaped this year. Pop Culture Planet contributor Paola Cardenas breaks down what we’re thankful for in 2023.
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has undeniably left a mark on the music industry and her devoted fanbase. As a true visionary in the realm of pop, her decision to revisit her past eras on this tour brought the fans mass nostalgia. The tour highlighted her journey from country ingénue to pop superstar.
As one of the biggest music tours generating over millions to local economies, her impact is felt across the world. Moreover, the tour reinforced her commitment to authenticity and artistic control, setting a benchmark for artists seeking creative autonomy in the industry. Swift's Eras Tour wasn't just a concert series. It was a testament to her enduring impact and an ode to the enduring power of her music to connect with fans across generations.
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All things pink came from one of the biggest movies of the year, Barbie. The messaging in the film about inclusivity and empowerment transcends the traditional confines of the beloved children’s toy brand. At its core, the film champions the idea that beauty and worth are not confined to stereotypes but are defined by one's individuality and character. It encourages viewers to embrace diversity, both in appearance and personality, and to appreciate the uniqueness in themselves and others.
This message of inclusivity and self-acceptance is woven throughout the film's narrative, emphasizing that everyone has a story worth telling and that true strength comes from being true to oneself. In a world often filled with unrealistic standards and pressures, the Barbie movie serves as a beacon of positivity, inspiring viewers to break free from societal constraints and to celebrate their authenticity. It reminds us that we can all be the architects of our own dreams and destinies, regardless of who we are or where we come from. With this, Barbie became the fastest, highest-grossing film of 2023. It made about $1.6 billion worldwide, had the largest openings, and led to Greta Gerwig becoming the highest earning solo female director to reach $1 billion.
It goes without mentioning that Oppenheimer was another big movie alongside Barbie. Aside from poking fun at the dichotomies drawn on social media, Oppenheimer was a cinematic experience like no other that gave us stellar performances from Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, and Robert Downey Jr. The film, directed by Christopher Nolan, added the Nolan flair of incredible sound design and innovative cinematography with no CGI used.
Outrageous Met Gala Looks
The Met Gala, often dubbed "fashion's biggest night," has consistently delivered a spectacle of outrageous and avant-garde looks that leave the world buzzing. This yearly extravaganza allows celebrities and designers to push the boundaries of creativity and self-expression, resulting in some truly jaw-dropping ensembles. While these over-the-top outfits may seem outlandish to some, they serve as a reminder of the power of fashion as an art form. Each year, the Met Gala theme challenges attendees to explore new realms of imagination, and the daring fashion choices that emerge are a testament to the innovative spirit of the industry.
This year’s Met Gala theme was honoring the late Karl Largerfeld, creative director of Chanel and Fendi. Much of the looks ranged from beautiful classic Chanel tweed looks to ensembles inspired by Largerfeld’s cat Choupette. Yes, I’m talking about you Jared Leto. As creepy as it might’ve been upon first glance, you have to laugh at how grand it was while paying homage to Choupette.
Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts Album
Olivia Rodrigo’s highly anticipated new album "Guts" has been a revelation in the music industry and we should be immensely thankful for its existence. With "Guts," Rodrigo has continued to captivate listeners with her raw and emotionally charged songwriting. The album delves into themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and resilience, resonating deeply with a generation navigating the complexities of youth and love. It's a testament to Rodrigo's talent and authenticity as an artist that she's able to capture the universal experiences of her audience and translate them into songs that feel like a lifeline for those going through similar challenges.
Moreover, "Guts" has pushed the boundaries of pop music by blending various genres and showcasing Rodrigo's growth as an artist. Her willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles demonstrates a boldness that is refreshing in the music industry. "Guts" is not just an album; it's a symbol of artistic integrity and fearlessness, and we should be thankful for the impact it has had on the music world and the emotional support it provides to countless listeners.
Jack Black’s Peaches Song
From The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Bowser, played by Jack Black, sings an ode to his beloved Princess Peach. It wasn’t long until opening weekend for the entire internet to gravitate towards Jack Black’s singing.
His charismatic delivery and undeniable enthusiasm for the Mario universe makes "Peaches" a delightful and memorable addition to the film's soundtrack. It's a testament to his ability to bring a playful and entertaining twist to a nostalgic theme, making it a standout moment that resonates with both fans of the games and newcomers to the world of Super Mario. Thank you Jack Black for proving again what a national treasure you are.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie is available on Peacock.
Halle Bailey as Little Mermaid
Halle Bailey's casting as Ariel in the 2023 adaptation of The Little Mermaid was significant for several reasons. Her portrayal marked a crucial step forward in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry, sending a powerful message about representation to audiences of all backgrounds.
Additionally, Halle Bailey's immense talent as a singer and actress made her a perfect fit for the role, ensuring that the film would have a captivating and authentic musical experience. Her casting not only expanded the narrative possibilities of the beloved character but also served as a symbol of progress in the ongoing effort to make cinema more reflective of the diverse world we live in.
Be part of Halle Bailey’s world in The Little Mermaid, available on Disney+.
Daisy Jones and The Six Soundtrack
Daisy Jones and The Six is a captivating and nostalgic period drama that immerses viewers in the vibrant music scene of the 1970s. The show, based on Taylor Jenkins Reid’s bestselling novel, brilliantly captures the essence of a tumultuous era in rock 'n' roll history.
Centered around the enigmatic rock band, The Six, and the magnetic Daisy Jones, the series delves into their complex relationships, creative struggles, and the raw, unfiltered emotions that fueled their music. The series, with a stellar ensemble cast, meticulously recreated 70s aesthetics that made you feel like you were with them in that era.
Featuring a dynamic mix of iconic 1970s rock hits and original compositions, the soundtrack transports viewers to the heart of the music revolution. Every song choice is carefully curated to complement the emotional beats of the story, enhancing character development and underscoring pivotal moments in the characters' lives. This wouldn’t be done without convincing the audience that the band can produce real good music that would reflect the 1970s.
Blake Mills, the music producer who worked on the show’s original tracks, used emotions and scenarios of the show in order to write the music from the character’s perspective. Not only did he produce this music in a highly historical studio, he brought in other artists to collaborate including Phoebe Bridgers, Marcus Mumford, Z Berg, Jackson Browne, and more. All these elements drive the story line and progression of the bands music with each other and separately. One of the biggest accomplishments for the series is the fictional band managed to hit number 1 on iTunes with their original album Aurora.
Daisy Jones and The Six is available on Prime Video.
James Marsden as James Marsden in Jury Duty
Jury Duty, a hidden camera comedy show set in a courtroom follows the jury process from the eyes of Ronald Gladden. Unaware that the whole scene is filled with actors besides him, he encounters the multiple personalities of the people around him.
One of the most remarkable and prominent performances is James Marsden playing himself. However, Marsden takes things to another level as he portrays a highly egotistical version of himself. This Hollywood heartthrob enters the scene with a mission: to use his fame to dodge jury duty. But that's just the beginning of his antics. Throughout the show, he can't resist dropping the names of the latest films he's auditioning for, all while throwing a few diva-worthy tantrums. It gave us viewers a laugh at an already staged scenario to watch the events unfold and how Gladden reacts to it all.
Jury Duty is on Prime Video and Freevee.
Kim Kardashian in American Horror Story Delicate
The American Horror Story anthology series has captivated audiences with its innovative storytelling and a rotating ensemble of actors who play different characters in each season. What sets AHS apart is its fearless exploration of a vast array of horror subgenres, from haunted houses and supernatural phenomena to psychological terror and social commentary.
Its willingness to tackle taboo subjects and push boundaries has made it a cultural phenomenon, often sparking intense discussions and debates. With its unique format and commitment to delivering a fresh nightmare each season, AHS continues to be a compelling and influential force in the world of television horror.
Kim Kardashian joins the new season of American Horror Story: Delicate, playing Siobhan, a recently hired publicist for Anna Victoria Alcott (Emma Roberts). To many viewers' surprise, Kim holds her own in this role. She portrays her character convincingly and drives the story forward. Although she’s mostly known for being a reality TV star, Kim has proved with time that she has many other interests and talents beyond broadcasting her private life.
We can all take a lesson or two from Kim on stepping out of our comfort zones to pursue things we might have been too scared to.
Stream American Horror Story: Delicate on Hulu.
Ariana DeBose Bafta Rap
The glitz and glamour of the 76th BAFTA awards, a night that left the world buzzing with excitement, was held on February 19 at the iconic Royal Festival Hall in London.
One of the most viral and iconic moment of the night was the enchanting Ariana DeBose, who graced the audience with her mesmerizing presence and hilarious rap. DeBose started the night paying homage to the nominated women with classics such as Aretha Franklin and Eurythmics’ “Sisters Are Doin' It for Themselves" and Sister Sledge's timeless hit "We Are Family," uniting everyone in a joyous celebration of unity.
Transitioning between the two songs, Debose goes into a post-Hamilton rap in tribute to the women of the night. Before you know it, her iconic line “Angela Bassett did the thing, Viola Davis, my Woman King" was uttered. This moment immediately went viral on the internet, specifically Twitter, with some poking fun at audience reactions and other engaging in deeper conversations about women in the film industry.
All in all, DeBose delivered an extraordinary performance that was energetic, camp, brilliant, and hilarious.
