prism’s

Movie Pick By Soumya

Redefining Disney villainy amid enchantment and dazzling color is “Encanto,” which was first released in November 2021. The plot surrounds Mirabel, the easily loved youngest daughter born powerless in a family of children with magic, and her desire to save her family and prove herself. “Encanto” is set in a fictional land in Colombia and is full of vibrant colors, clothing and a well-diversified Latinx population. This movie is known for its catchy music and for being a litmus test for anyone considering therapy. “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote the movie’s lively soundtrack, which leaves just as much of an impression as the award-winning Broadway musical. A range of experiences can be had in the movie’s just under two-hour runtime: a strong craving for arepas con queso, a dance with donkey friends and the desire to punch an old woman. In every way, “Encanto” has been well worth the seven times that I’ve watched it so far. And for my eldest daughter gals? Hang in there!

Book Pick By Brian

Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a book that doesn’t really need an introduction. In the more than 200 years since its publication, it has cemented itself into the fabric of English literature and pop culture. The story has always been one of my favorites, and I was even given the opportunity to teach an (Un)common Reads on the book last semester. I reread “Frankenstein” numerous times in preparation for the class, and I found myself reflecting on the novel in some surprising ways.

The last time I read the story was in high school, and I feel that the experiences I’ve had since then have impacted and deepened my relationship with the text. I found myself noticing things in the story that I’d never picked up on during my previous readings. One detail in particular that stood out to me more while preparing for the class was just how scary the book can be. “Frankenstein” is a Gothic story and a sci-fi story, but first and foremost, it is a horror story. The book was written as the result of a dare between Shelley and friends, who all wished to see who could come up with the scariest ghost story, and the writing certainly reflects these ghoulish origins. As a huge fan of horror stories, I was surprised by how deeply some of the scenes and imagery affected me, and I wish the horror aspects of Frankenstein’s story were preserved in more of its film and theater adaptations.