The week bridging Christmas and New Year’s can feel like a delightful pause, or for some, a stretch of unstructured time that feels a bit daunting. If you’re anything like me, a media enthusiast always on the lookout for the next great thing, you might find yourself wondering what to dive into now that the holiday movie marathons are winding down. Fear not! 2024 has been a treasure trove of captivating content, and the upcoming year promises even more. Whether you’re seeking to catch up on the best of the past year or revisit beloved classics, this guide is your curated list of what to watch, read, and listen to this week.
Must-Watch Movies This Week
The New Release Buzz: Babygirl
For those seeking something truly out-of-the-box, Babygirl is generating significant buzz. This film, starring Nicole Kidman, ventures into the realm of a romantic psychological thriller (or so it seems!). Kidman portrays a powerful CEO entangled in an affair with a younger employee, played by Harris Dickinson. Their power dynamics and clandestine relationship escalate, promising a suspenseful and potentially dangerous narrative. While perhaps not ideal for family viewing, Babygirl is poised to be a major conversation starter.
Throwback Movie Night: The Princess Diaries
Nostalgia is always a comforting choice during this time of year, and The Princess Diaries is the perfect nostalgic movie to revisit. With Anne Hathaway set to have a phenomenal 2025, including the anticipated Princess Diaries 3 and whispers of The Devil Wears Prada sequel developments, now is the ideal moment to immerse yourself in her early iconic role. Relive Mia Thermopolis’s charming journey of discovering her royal lineage in this beloved 2001 film. It’s a heartwarming and fun watch, perfect for a cozy evening in.
Top TV Shows to Binge This Week
The Fresh TV Series: Rivals
If you’re experiencing Bridgerton withdrawal, Rivals is here to fill the void. While released on Hulu in October, this series gained viral momentum in late November and is perfect for a binge-watch session this week. Rivals plunges into the drama of a 1980s British TV company. Tony Baddingham, through marriage, becomes managing director and hires Declan O’Hara as his star and Cameron Cook, an ambitious American producer. The clash between O’Hara and Cook ignites controversy, further complicated by Rupert Campbell Black’s interference. Expect British accents, glamorous 80s fashion, and steamy scenes that will keep you hooked.
Nostalgic TV Binge: The O.C.
With the resurgence of Adam Brody appreciation in 2024, revisiting The O.C. is a must. Before his role as the “hot rabbi” in Nobody Wants This, Brody captured hearts as the endearingly awkward Seth Cohen. His long-standing crush on Summer Roberts (Rachel Bilson) in The O.C. remains iconic. This series is the perfect nostalgic escape, especially if you’ve found yourself part of the internet’s collective swooning over Brody and his look-alikes this year. Dive back into the drama and romance of Newport Beach.
What to Read This Week
The New Book Sensation: The God of the Woods
The God of the Woods has undeniably been the book of 2024. Dominating social media feeds, topping “best of” lists, and even captivating readers to the point of reading while walking off public transport, this book is a cultural phenomenon. If you haven’t yet experienced its allure, now is the time. The story follows the disappearance of 13-year-old Barbara Van Laar at her family’s summer camp in 1975, echoing a past family tragedy. It’s a mystery that promises to be both gripping and thought-provoking.
Classic Read: The Hunger Games
Prepare for the upcoming Hunger Games prequel movie and Suzanne Collins’ new novel, Sunrise on the Reaping, by revisiting the original trilogy. The Hunger Games remains a powerful and relevant dystopian story. Re-immerse yourself in the world of Katniss, Peeta, and Panem before the new installment arrives. It’s a gripping and thought-provoking read that continues to resonate.
Quick and Engaging Read: I Hope This Finds You Well
If you’ve been following the “corpcore” and “Office Siren” trends, or enjoyed the corporate satire that went viral online in 2024, I Hope This Finds You Well is your perfect quick read. This book by Natalie Sue taps into the zeitgeist of office culture with humor and wit. It follows Jolene, an admin who uses petty email postscripts to vent, only to accidentally gain access to everyone’s private emails and uncover impending layoffs. It’s a funny and insightful look into the modern corporate world.
What to Listen to This Week
Captivating Audiobook: Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten
Following the trend of celebrating iconic domestic figures like Martha Stewart and Ina Garten in 2024, Ina Garten’s memoir, Be Ready When the Luck Happens, is a must-listen. Even for those who aren’t typically audiobook fans, Ina Garten’s narration of her journey to becoming the Barefoot Contessa is incredibly soothing and inspiring. After the holiday cooking rush, enjoy listening to someone else talk about food and success.
Informative and Engaging Podcast: Binchtopia
For those who appreciate culture commentary with depth, Binchtopia is a top-tier podcast. Hosts Julia Hava and Eliza McLamb delve into pop culture phenomena with insightful research and engaging conversation. If you prefer your cultural analysis backed by JSTOR-sourced articles, Binchtopia is the podcast for you. It’s both informative and entertaining.
Motivational Podcast: The Everygirl Podcast
If the week between Christmas and New Year’s is your time for goal-setting, The Everygirl Podcast is your go-to resource. Beyond its fun and chatty introductions, the podcast offers episodes packed with tips on personal finance, wellness, manifestation, relationships, and more. Whatever your goals for the new year, there’s likely an episode to guide you. It’s perfect listening for those reflective walks during this transitional week.
Hilarious Podcast Pick: Giggly Squad
Just as The God of the Woods dominated the book world, Giggly Squad has taken over the podcast scene. Hosts Hannah and Paige have gone viral for their humor, relatable content, and laugh-out-loud conversations. If you’re seeking to combat winter blues or post-holiday sadness, Giggly Squad is guaranteed to bring joy and laughter. It’s the perfect funny podcast to tune into for a guaranteed mood boost this week.
This curated list provides a diverse range of entertainment options for your week, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this unique in-between time. Happy watching, reading, and listening!
