2024 has been a crazy year for many. From the Olympics to the Election, there are many cultural highlights from the year and our staff has named their favorites.
Favorite Movie
Megan Eesley, Co-Editor-in-Chief: “Inside Out 2”
Being one of the very few movies that I have seen in theater this year, “Inside Out 2” takes the cake. It is one of the best sequels I have seen in a while; while staying true to the original storyline and cast of characters, the movie delved into different emotions and challenges for Riley, letting the audience watch her grow up. The movie shone a light on how adolescents carefully navigate friendships, social hierarchy and the struggles of change.
Emily Reier, News Editor: “We Live in Time”
I have not stopped thinking about this movie since I saw it in theaters. Starring the ever-charming Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh, We Live in Time is a beautifully understated meditation on love, loss and time’s relentless march. Don’t go expecting big action sequences; this one sneaks up on you in the most tender way. It’s one of those movies that makes you feel things you weren’t prepared for – until, of course, you’re sobbing in the theater while your heartless roommate laughs at you.
Jonah Sereitti, Opinion Editor: “Dune: Part Two”
I mean, come on. Nearly forty years after David Lynch’s iconic but flawed “Dune” film, Denis Villeneuve has delivered to us a marvelous realization of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel. Coming two years after Part One, “Dune: Part Two” elevates every single interesting aspect of the 2022 film. As someone who waited to watch both parts until I finished the novel, I can say that this film delivers on nearly everything I would want out of a modern big-budget “Dune” film. This is not to say that the movie is entirely beholden to the text. In fact the ending has a notably different tone than the novel. It simply fulfills every reader’s dream of seeing their favorite books visually realized in the most loving and indulgent way. Denis gives us the Arrakis we’ve always dreamed of seeing on the big screen. The cast is also phenomenal. Timothee Chalamet as Paul Atreides, Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha, Rebecca Feruson as Lady Jessica, and Stellan Skarsgård as Baron Harkonnen are all inspired choices who give incredible performances. Finally, the score. Hans Zimmer is at his best here. “Eclipse”, “Lisan Al-Gaib”, “Harkonnen Arena”, “Kiss the Ring” and “A Time of Quiet Before the Storms,” there are so many incredible and instantly iconic tracks in this soundtrack. I feel like I could talk about this movie forever.
Sam Hill, Photography Editor: “Gladiator II”
As a new and upcoming fan of Pedro Pascal, I had to go see this film in the theater. While I have not watched the first movie, the second movie did not miss on making sure to fill viewers in on information to make the story flow together. The drama, the heartbreak, the violence, the love and the death made this movie one to remember. It is a classic movie and one that I feel will not age with its time.
Gracie Davis, Graphic Designer: “Challengers”
“Challengers” has very conflicting opinions and most either love it or hate it. While most disliked this movie, I loved it. I loved the 80’s style vibe along with the switching of the traditional male and female roles. Zendaya is portrayed as a very powerful tennis player and all star and uses her sexuality and fame to motivate and manipulate two men. This is done all of the time by men in movies, why can’t a woman do the same? It’s light hearted, intense, and passionate all at once. I also loved the cinematography as well as the soundtrack. Overall a great tennis movie (this isn’t about tennis).
Peyton Lewis, Copy Editor: “Twisters”
A movie like “Twisters” would not normally be my first choice, but I, like many others, found the allure of Glen Powell to be too hard to resist. Although I came to the theater for Powell in a cowboy hat, I stayed for the riveting plot, catchy soundtrack and outstanding performance by lead actress Daisy Edgar Jones. The pacing had me on the edge of my seat for the entire length of the film, and made two hours seem like two minutes. “Twisters” perfectly captured the terrifying power of tornadoes and made for the perfect summer blockbuster.
Favorite TV Show
Eesley: “Only Murders in the Building.”
I have been told that this is my “old person show,” but I don’t care (plus, it has Selena Gomez. How old can it really be?) The show never fails to bring laughs, intrigue and heart-warming moments as the trio of podcasting detectives takes on yet another murder in their building. The series explores the relationship between everyone on a film set from the actors to the stunt doubles as Charles is faced with the murder of his former stunt double, Saz, in his apartment, and is left trying to navigate her death and his life without her.
Seretti: “Fallout”
My girlfriend doesn’t play video games; I have played almost every Fallout game available. We both absolutely loved this show. This show is funny, scary, heartfelt, a little gross and very exciting. The fifties meets post apocalypse style of the Fallout universe is such a strong combo, and it translates so well to the show. The unique juxtaposition of fifties sleekness and post apocalyptic decay is at the core of “Fallout.” This juxtaposition is reflected in the humour and horror that make the show so enjoyable. “Fallout” can be harrowing one minute, and hilarious the next. Meanwhile, the unique world of “Fallout” just keeps you wanting to see more.
Hill: “The Penguin”
If you want a show that makes you forget that you’re watching a DC comics character, then “The Penguin” is the way to go. Everything from the production of the show, the cast and the story is written and created so perfectly that I wanted to binge the show all in one day. Sofia Falcone (Cristin Miliooti) is an unforgettable character as viewers can watch the rise and fall of her character. Mafia drug dealers in Gotham based around the “Batman” (2022) storyline, how much better could it get?
Reier: “Dancing with the Stars”
I will be the first to say it: I’m sat. “Dancing with the Stars” is the perfect blend of glitz, glamor and a surprising amount of heart. Every week, I was invested in the drama of who’s going to land in the bottom two and who will surprise us all with some unexpected dance moves.
Lewis: “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”
“A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder” is one of my favorite young adult mystery book series, so I was beyond thrilled to learn that a television show adaptation would be coming to Netflix in 2024. As an avid reader, learning that my favorite books are being adapted for the screen is always both exciting and a little terrifying since I have had more than one bad experience with bad adaptations; but this is not the case with “A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder.” Even though certain elements of the plot were changed, the television series perfectly captured the suspenseful spirit of its source material. In fact, the suspense was so good it had me gasping aloud at plot twists I already knew happened from reading the book. Each character was perfectly cast and the actors did a phenomenal job of bringing their characters to life. “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” is the perfect show for anyone looking to dive into a good mystery and not get up from their couch until all eight episodes have been finished.
Davis: “Love Island”
Summer was full of working and boredom for me until “Love Island USA” season 6 came along, arguably the best season. I waited every night for 9 p.m. to hit. The people this season really brought the drama, the action and of course the love. I’m not sure exactly what it was that made this season so good compared to the others but I think we can all agree for those who did watch that Aaron and Rob should’ve won best couple.
Favorite Album
Eesley: “Short n’ Sweet” by Sabrina Carpenter
Maybe I’m basic, but I thoroughly enjoyed Sabrina’s latest album. From the humorous and sensual lyrics to the songs’ fun and peppy beat, Short n’ Sweet did not miss a step. It even boasted this year’s song of the summer “Espresso.” Although there has been backlash from parents due to her tour featuring some more sexual themes in her performance (The “Juno” poses, anyone?), the album was the summer anthem of 2024.
Seretti: “No Name” by Jack White
This album is so badass. This is easily my favorite of any Jack White solo album and rivals many of the classic White Stripes records in terms of pure kinetic rock energy. Every part of this album is full of raw electric energy. Jack White’s guitar playing on this album is both wildly unhinged and reminiscent of the catchy simple riffs that made the White Stripes sound. Meanwhile, his songwriting is tighter and more punchy than ever. White partners with a few collaborators on this album. I find the drumming on this album to be both frenetic and consistently perfect. The two drummers on this album Patrick Keeler and Daru Jones are in such a solid rock pocket throughout this whole album. This pocket is supported by the driving bass lines by Dominic Davis, Olivia Jean, and even Jack’s daughter Scarlett White (on tracks 5 & 9). Simply put, this album is “all killer, no filler.” There’s not a single skip on this record. I probably listened to this album three times in a row when it first came out. If you wanna jam out, put this record on and have fun.
Hill: “Got a Story to Tell” by Thee Sacred Souls
Sweet sounds of soul, rhythm and blues and jazz come together in an album that makes you appreciate artists who admire music from the 60s. The Sacred Souls album “Got a Story to Tell” is a soothing album that will take you back in time. With their hit, “Can I Call You Rose?” their music has been on a rise within the past year. If you love R&B and soul, this album is for you.
Reier: “Clancy” by Twenty One Pilots
Unfortunately, I am stuck in a perpetual middle school loop (God, help me). From the hypnotic layers of “Midwest Indigo” to the nostalgic vibes of “Oldies Station,” “Clancy” by Twenty One Pilots perfectly balances the band’s signature mix of introspection, experimentation and anthemic energy. It’s the kind of record that makes you feel deeply while still keeping your feet tapping. This album holds a special place in my heart because it came out just as I was graduating high school and entering my freshman year here at UNCW. But what really makes Clancy hit different is the experience of seeing it live. I had the chance to catch the band in Raleigh, N.C. in September with my mom and little sister. They truly know how to put on a show, performing some older songs in their discography – including one of my all time favorites, “Fall Away.” Seeing them live was just the kind of geeky, nostalgic joy I needed.
Lewis: “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift is my all time favorite artist, and has been for most of my life. I truly believe she could release an album that just consists of her reading her weekly grocery lists aloud and it would still be my top streamed album of the year; so I was excited to learn she would be releasing her eleventh album in April 2024. While I am naturally going to love any piece of music she puts out, I was truly blown away by “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” and it quickly became one of my favorite albums released by Swift. I stayed awake until midnight to listen to all 16 tracks of “The Tortured Poets Department” as soon as they were released; then, I woke up later that morning to discover that Swift had surprised dropped 16 additional songs at 3 a.m to create “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology. Even though having 32 new songs to absorb and memorize was a bit overwhelming at first, I soon grew to love each and every one of them. “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” is one of Swift’s most vulnerable and emotional albums, but that is what makes it a true standout in her expansive discography.
Davis: “The Secret of Us” by Gracie Abrams
Gracie Abrams is a fairly new artist that gained popularity this year with the help of her new album, “The Secret of Us.” This album was a little different from her previous one where some say that one was a little bit of a let down. The production of this album displayed different melodies and was more upbeat. I love both the albums and think they are great in different ways. I do think that “The Secret of Us” shows her improvement and creativity with a new sound.
Favorite Song
Eesley: “I Can Do it With a Broken Heart” by Taylor Swift
I think many college students can relate to this song. As we balance jobs, classwork and personal relationships it often feels like we are doing everything and then some, spreading ourselves a little too thin, but we can’t afford to drop the ball. We are told that these are going to be the best four years of our lives, but all I see are my friends weighed down with stress and responsibility. Every line from “Gotta fake it till ya make it, and I did” to “I cry a lot but I am so productive, it’s an art,” this song acts as an anthem for myself and my fellow college students.
Seretti: “Luther” by Kendrick Lamar
This song is actually butter. Like perfect chive butter on warm toast. This song is the spongebob floating in the air with headphones on meme. This song is a blanket fresh out of the dryer. I saw this song give $500 to a man living on the street. I am going to ask this song to be the best man at my wedding. I hear this song cures seasonal depression (regular depression unaffected). This song is the type of friend to let you crash on their couch no questions asked. I like this song a lot, and I think it likes me back. This song should be the first song we show to extraterrestrial life. Play this song at my funeral. Play this song in honor of Luther Vandross. Play this song and just enjoy yourself. Happy New Year.
Hill: “Lithonia” by Childish Gambino
The grip and hold that this song has on me is astronomically out of this world. As I have been learning and becoming myself, it has been a challenge to be myself without the fear of judgement from others around me. In addition, I have been learning what is important to me and experiencing moments where they feel, well, overrated. At the end of the day, “He’s finding out that nobody gives a f**k.” After hearing this song live in concert in August 2024, it has forever resonated with me to be the song of 2024.
Reier: “Life Goes On” by The Sundays
I stumbled upon “Life Goes On” by The Sundays thanks to a TikTok edit of Enya Umanzor and immediately became obsessed. I was beyond devastated when I couldn’t find it on Spotify and may have taken an unconventional route to listen to it. I must not have been the only one because not long after the song blew up on TikTok, and the band finally (officially) released it. It has been on repeat ever since, and The Sundays have quickly become one of my top bands this year.
Lewis: “Let it Happen” by Gracie Abrams
The only album that got me to turn off “The Tortured Poets Department” this year was “Secret of Us” by Gracie Abrams. This is partially because this album contains my favorite song from Abrams and one of my favorite songs of the year: “Let it Happen.” This song immediately caught my attention when I was listening to the album for the first time back in June and I have not been able to stop listening to it since. My favorite types of songs are the ones that mix a catchy upbeat melody with lyrics that cut you right to the bone, and that is exactly what “Let it Happen” does. “Let it Happen” is perfect for the people that like to stare out airplane windows while blasting music in their ears and reflecting on everything that has ever happened to them in their lives (it’s me, I’m people).
Davis: “Circadian Rhythm” by Drake
I will always ride or die for Drake. The controversy this year between him and Kendrick Lamar brought out some rumors that did not go in Drake’s favor. Kendricks diss in his feature with Future & Metro Boomin’s song led to the outbreak of diss’ from Drake and Kendrick going back at each other. Overall the general consensus was that Kendrick won. That being said Drake was my top artist in my Apple Replay for the fourth year in a row, and while I don’t agree with some of Drake’s actions as a person, he definitely has some bangers like this one.
Favorite Book
Eesley: “A Room of One’s Own” by Virginia Woolf
Admittedly, I did not read as many books this year as I would have liked, but “A Room of One’s Own” was one that I couldn’t put down. Delving into the history of feminism and how female voices have been barred from writing throughout time, Woolf sheds light on how women had to operate under patriarchy and how limited their options truly were. The book reminded me of how blessed I am to live in a time where not only can I write freely, but I can also have the honor of being Co-Editor-in-Chief of such a lovely group of writers.
Seretti: “Way of Kings” by Brandon Sanderson
It took me a while, but I finally got pulled into the Sanderson wave taking over fantasy right now. My friend told me to read Way of Kings and let me borrow the book near the middle of this year. Since then I have finished three “Stormlight Archives” books and am about 200 pages into the fourth novel. I can see why Sanderson is such a big name in fantasy right now. This series is so unique and interesting. Sanderson’s characters have such complex psychological profiles. His world of Roshar, and the greater Cosmere, is such an interesting setting. Both of these elements are combined into an incredible fantasy series. I have had so many jaw dropping moments in this series. I can’t recommend trying “Way of Kings” enough. Be careful, however. You may get sucked in like me and spend all your free time reading over the next six months. If this sounds fun to you, my recommendation is doubled.
Hill: “The Seven Year Slip” by Ashley Poston
While this book came out in 2023, it was one of my top reads in 2024. This book had me flipping page after page with the romance, the magic, and the hardships. This was also my introduction to Poston’s work too which I have a deep admiration for. The story of two lovers, with a hint of magic, made me weep tears of sadness but tears of joy by the end of this book. Without this book, I would have not dived into romance books along with entering into the world of magic and fantasy elements as I am today.
Reier: “Wicked” by Gregory Maguire
Just like everyone else, I couldn’t escape the “Wicked” movie hype. The movie’s release had me revisiting the original book by Gregory Maguire, which holds a special place in my heart. A timeless classic, Maguire’s reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz” is so much more than just the story of the Wicked Witch of the West; it’s a dark, complex and surprisingly emotional exploration of identity, power and friendship.
Lewis: “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Mass
While I am a little late to the Sarah J. Mass hype, I am so glad I finally decided to give her “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series a try. Admittedly, the first book did not blow me away, but the second book, “A Court of Mist and Fury” had me unable to stop reading. Seriously, I have never been able to read an almost 700 page book in three days before this. I encourage anyone who is hesitant about starting the series (or may have gave up during the first book) to give this series a chance because you will not regret it.
Favorite Person
Eesley: Ilona Maher
Made an internet sensation for her amazing performance at the Olympics, helping bring home the bronze medal for women’s rugby, Ilona Maher is a powerhouse both on and off the field. Proving she really can do both, she embraces all sides of herself and is comfortable embracing femininity, despite her profession and body type not being considered traditionally feminine. Moving off of the playing field, she has been the covergirl of “Sports Illustrated” and was a finalist on “Dancing With the Stars” as she pushed for women to embrace unique body types and to break out of society’s boxes.
Seretti: Trixie Mattel
Trixie Mattel took a break this year and just stepped away from the internet and public life for months. This is so real. I love this so much. Trixie is one of my favorite creators in the world. Seeing someone decide to step away from drag and the internet for his health and wellbeing is such an amazing example of what I think many need but aren’t brave enough to give themselves. Sometimes we need to step away from the constant grind and the interconnectedness to just live life for a while. You can love something too much. Everyone gets burnt out. The internet just exponentially increases the effect of burnout that so many of us feel. I respect the bravery to step away from one’s passion and career, let alone the internet. It’s not easy to do, even if you’re in a position of privilege like Trixie. I want this for more people, to step away and realize that the real world doesn’t work like the internet. Live life and enjoy your moments, who knows how many you have left.
Reier: Chapell Roan
Chappell Roan is an absolute powerhouse, and I can’t get enough of her. She is unapologetically authentic in a way that’s rare in today’s music scene, and her aesthetic is next-level. Every song feels like an anthem. I can’t listen to “HOT TO GO!” in public without immediately doing the iconic dance. Roan doesn’t just perform, she commands the room. That’s why she’s become one of my absolute favorite artists (and people) this year.
Lewis: Taylor Swift
Between her record breaking tour and the release of her new album it should come as no shock that Taylor Swift is my favorite person from 2024. Aside from her career success, one of the main reason’s Swift is my favorite person of 2024 is the generosity she has displayed throughout the year, such as spending a total of 197 million dollars in bonuses on every person who helped make her Eras Tour possible and spending the day before her birthday making a surprise visit to a Kansas City children’s hospital. The day after her visit, a video was shared to social media of a young girl unwrapping a present gifted to her by Swift. The gift consisted of a Dyson Airwrap, which the young girl had told Swift she wanted for Christmas the day before. It is probably one of the most heartwarming videos I have ever watched and that video alone is enough to make Swift my favorite person of 2024.
Favorite Purchase
Eesley: Tickets to the Monet Experience
To me, experiences are worth more than items. Being able to go to the Monet Experience and explore the history of Impressionism and walk inside of Monet’s paintings was a completely surreal experience. It was beautiful, peaceful and therapeutic.
Seretti: O-Cedar Mop
This may be the single greatest invention in the history of human existence. I mop my floor SO much more often now. Not only does this mop make it so much easier to set up my mop station and break it down, but it’s fun to use and way more effective. I don’t like to shill for products, but this thing is a game changer folks.
Hill: Childish Gambino Concert Tickets
A once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget. Thank you, Donald Glover, for making the 2024 concert season incredible for me. An honorable mention to the “Twenty One Pilots “concert too.
Reier: My tattoo
In a moment of spontaneous inspiration (Sorry, Mom!), I finally got my first tattoo! It’s a small but important reminder of resilience: “This too shall pass.” I’ve had the idea for my tattoo since eighth grade (because apparently I was super deep in middle school) and I’m beyond happy with how it turned out. My artist, Liz, at Sun and Moon Tattoo Sanctuary did an incredible job bringing my vision to life. Now, every time I look at it, I’m reminded that tough times are just temporary, and strength comes from getting through them.
Lewis: Concert Tickets
This year I was able to see three of my favorite artists live: Noah Kahan, Chappell Roan and Taylor Swift. Every single concert was absolutely worth it, especially Kahan and Roan who I had never gotten the chance to see live before. To me there is nothing better than getting to hear my favorite songs by my favorite artists performed live, especially alongside my best friends. All of the concert tickets I bought this year allowed me to make memories that will last me a lifetime.
Favorite Pop Culture Moment
Eesley: Pommel Horse Guy
We’ve all seen the meme. American Pommel Horse Specialist Stephen Nedoroscik taking a little nap before doing just one (1) Olympic event for the men’s gymnastics team, bringing his team to the podium for Pommel Horse and overall. Nicknamed “Superman” for the way he whips off his glasses before beginning his event, much like how Clark Kent removes his glasses when becoming Superman, he quickly became America’s internet favorite.
Reier: The 2024 Summer Olympics (Specifically the TikTok edits)
I have not, and will not, get over the 2024 Summer Olympics. I’m not even a huge Olympics fan, but this year? I was all in. There’s something about watching Team America dominate that makes you feel more patriotic than you’ve ever felt in your life. The energy was unmatched but honestly, I think I just got sucked in by the cinematic masterpieces (TikTok edits) set to Taylor Swift’s “The Alchemy.”
Davis: Thank you Beyonce
Recently P.Diddy was charged with very serious allegations which spread all over the media. It begged the question and moral of many other big names in Hollywood, one of which being Beyonce. With this being such a serious thing, leave it up to Gen Z to find some humor in it. People came to the realization that many people who had some success seemed to owe it to Beyonce in some shape or form. So the phrase “thank you Beyonce” came about. Jokes of everyone thanking Beyonce because if you didnt she would come after you, started forming. It’s still unsure if she actually has any involvement with the situation, but all I can say is, thank you Beyonce for making me laugh.
Lewis: The internet’s obsession with Luigi Mangione
The shooting of United Health Care CEO, Brian Johnson, is yet another example of the internet being unable to take anything seriously ever. The case quickly went viral on social media with many closely following the unfolding events. From blurry security camera photos, to the words “deny, defend depose” being supposedly carved into the bullets, to a backpack full of monopoly money being found in Central Park, many were heavily invested in the story. I even even saw a TikTok of someone comparing this crime to something straight out of a “Criminal Minds” episode, which felt eerily accurate. The internet’s obsession grew even more after 26-year-old Luigi Mangione was arrested and charged with the crime. My feed was quickly filled with jokes about how attractive Mangione was and in depth analysis of his social media accounts (including his Letterboxd profile?). Even though the murder of Johnson was a serious crime, the internet proved once again that they can immediately turn any serious event unserious.
