The Rise of CliffsNotes Cinema
Oversimplified literary remakes miss the point of the works they are adapting.
Culture
Why Justin Bieber Played YouTube Onstage for Thousands of People
The pop star transformed the normal act of browsing your laptop into something interesting—and unsettling.
The New Age of Performance Anxiety
With the rise of screen culture, all the world has stage fright.
Where Did ‘Let Them’ Come From?
Years before Mel Robbins published her best-selling self-help book, a struggling writer posted a poem with a similar message.
The Big Risk Wicked Is Taking
The sequel to last year’s blockbuster musical shifts massively in tone—which is what its director wanted.
President Piggy
This is what consequence-free misogyny looks like.
How to Fix the Mess of College Sports
Athletic departments are spending too much money on the wrong things.
Eight Plot-Heavy Books That Will Keep You Turning Pages
Some readers enjoy plotless, heady fiction. Those who don’t should try these titles.
Advent Calendars Are Totally Out of Control
What began as a form of religious expression has morphed into a brand-a-palooza.
A Generational Portrait That Actually Says Something New
Anika Jade Levy’s debut novel captures what it feels like to try to become an artist right now.
The Matcha Problem
First came the viral videos. Then came the shortages.
SNL Has Its Black Mirror Moment
A memorable sketch tackled what happens when embracing AI ends up disappointing Grandma.
