January 17, 2005: Production begins on Judd Apatow’s directorial debut The 40 Year-Old Virgin.
February 14, 2005: Youtube launches.
July, 2005: Myspace is purchased by News Corporation for $580million. Within the year the site will hit its peak with over 75million subscribers.
August 19, 2005: The 40 Year-Old Virgin is released in North America. It opens at No. 1 grossing over $21 million in its first weekend. It stayed at No. 1 the following weekend, grossing an additional $16 million. The film received near unanimous critical acclaim, resurrecting the thought-dead R-rated comedy and skyrocketing the careers of star Steve Carrell and filmmaker Judd Apatow.
July 15, 2006: Twitter is launched.
September 26, 2006: Facebook is made available to all persons over the age of 13.
The 40 Year-Old Virgin is now a 12 year-old film, known and beloved by almost anyone who encounters it. We root for Andy from minute 1 as he finds love and friendship on his way to losing his virginity. In this social media/ PC comedy era, a film with an almost entirely white cast full of very raunchy, very NON-PC humor, still delights and charms with it’s camaraderie and kind love story, all building to an ending that literally sends you off singing and dancing.
The film never plays it safe. It’s opening gag is a middle aged man walking around with a troublesome morning erection. The scene immediately following has our lead character Andy conversing with a co-worker who has recently been to Tijuana, Mexico where he watched a woman have sex with a horse. “You know how I know you’re gay?” Paul Rudd asks (future mega-star) Seth Rogen over a friendly game of Mortal Kombat. “You have a rainbow bumper-sticker that says I love it when I have balls in my face.” Every scene of 40 Year-Old Virgin is full of quotable 1-liners (largely improvised on the spot) and memorable set pieces such as the drunken drive home which crescendos with Leslie Mann (Apatow’s wife) wrecking her car and vomiting on Steve Carrel right before offering to have sex with him.
Watching the film today, you think to yourself, “How did this ever get made?!” With a mostly unknown cast, a “virgin” director and a script so full of racey and risqué material, it’s hard to believe the film was such a big hit – a game changing classic still beloved today. How? How did this film make it to the screens? Some might argue it’s the film’s heart. For every boner and racial slur, there’s a kind caring sentiment. “You know, for so long I thought there was something wrong with me because it had never happened, but I realize now it was just because I was waiting for you,” Carrel laments after crashing through two-sides of a billboard on his bike. Some argue it’s the simple, relatable premise. Who doesn’t wanna lose their virginity?! A good argument is the breakthrough style of the film. What was essentially a typical rom-com with a sitcom premise, the film was heavily improvised with a loose narrative form that also took the time to fully flesh out its characters in believable and not always pretty ways.
All of these are valid reasons, but consider this: The 40 Year-Old Virgin was the last major studio comedy before the boom of social media. This film was a beacon in the last stretch of the TV and print era of marketing and promotion. If you wanted to talk about this film with your friends you either had to do it in person or through some kind of personal blog. You didn’t have a cellphone that you could log onto Twitter with during the end credits to sum up your immediate reaction in 140 characters or less. There was no Facebook post to make where your friends could click like to validate your reaction and experience. No, this film was blessed with being in that sweet-spot – the last hurrah of personal/private interpretation.
The film itself being made before the technological boom helped it as well. Phones are almost never used in the film. For God’s sake, Andy meets his love interest in the film as she buys a VCR! The drunk driving scene with Leslie Mann would be solved today with an Uber. Andy and his friends actually interact with each other. They go out into the real world to search for love. Even Andy’s love interest Trish – who makes a living off of eBay – still has a physical store for people to come through and make their purchases. “Life isn’t about sex.” Andy’s co-worker Mooj tells him. “It’s about love. It’s about connection!” The line resinates for our lead, but it also speaks to the entire message and desire of the film itself: true connection with another person.
12 years later, and the 40 Year-Old Virgin is still a beautiful and hilarious experience. A film released at a time much freer of judgement. A film made at a time where you had to interact with the people you encounter. The 40 Year-Old Virgin is not self conscious, not so self aware like the films of today. The paranoia of being in the public eye 24/7 with cellphones and social media is not present, therefore the characters are aloud to make mistakes. The film is a comedy of errors. Errors made in a search for connection to the people in your life. Couple all of that with the talent in front of and behind the camera, and you’ve got a film of low risk for the studio making great returns for more than a decade after its release. A classic. A game changer. And all of that from a typical rom-com with a sitcom premise. Today, everyone is a critic with a voice that can reach millions. The 40 Year-Old Virgin begs to ask, were films better when they were less conscious of judgement?
Written by: Joe Black
Netflix’s Black and White Spoon is a Korean culinary competition series that seamlessly blends artistry, culture, and high-stakes drama into an unforgettable viewing experience. From its sleek production values to its deeply emotional storytelling, this show offers more than just tantalizing dishes—it serves a heartfelt exploration of culinary passion and perseverance.
The series pits contestants against each other in a dual-themed format where they must create dishes inspired by opposing concepts—light versus dark, sweet versus savory, or tradition versus innovation. This premise challenges the chefs’ creativity while providing viewers with visually stunning plates and fascinating backstories about Korean cuisine and its global influences.
The judges are a mix of culinary experts, celebrity chefs, and cultural critics, each bringing a unique perspective. Their feedback is sharp, insightful, and, at times, surprisingly emotional, further heightening the tension.
What sets Black and White Spoon apart is its emphasis on storytelling through food. Each episode dives deep into Korean culinary heritage, intertwining it with personal anecdotes from the contestants. Dishes are not merely judged on technical precision but also on the emotional resonance they evoke. For instance, a simple kimchi stew becomes a tribute to family ties, while a modern take on bibimbap showcases the fusion of tradition and innovation.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Every shot of sizzling grills, delicately plated meals, and reactions from the judges feels like an art piece. The pacing, however, can sometimes feel uneven. While the personal stories add emotional weight, they occasionally overshadow the cooking itself, leaving food enthusiasts craving more behind-the-scenes action in the kitchen.
Black and White Spoon is an inspiring and visually rich series that celebrates the art of cooking and the complexities of Korean cuisine. Its emotional depth and cultural insight make it a standout in the crowded genre of food competition shows, though slightly better pacing could elevate it further.
This is a must-watch for foodies, fans of Korean culture, and anyone who loves the blend of artistry and competition in culinary storytelling.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Thanksgiving may not have the sheer volume of movies as Christmas, but it’s no less special when it comes to heartwarming, funny, and even chaotic films that capture the holiday spirit. Here’s a ranked list of the top Thanksgiving movies you should add to your holiday viewing tradition.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Why Watch: The definitive Thanksgiving movie, John Hughes’ comedy about an unlikely duo (Steve Martin and John Candy) trying to make it home for Thanksgiving is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Why Watch: This animated classic reminds us of the simple joys of friendship and togetherness, all with Snoopy’s iconic charm. Perfect for family viewing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
The Blind Side (2009)
Why Watch: A feel-good drama about family, generosity, and second chances, this Sandra Bullock-led film captures the spirit of Thanksgiving through its heartwarming true story.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Pieces of April (2003)
Why Watch: A raw and quirky indie film starring Katie Holmes as a black sheep daughter trying to host Thanksgiving for her estranged family. It’s funny, awkward, and touching in equal measure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Why Watch: Directed by Jodie Foster, this chaotic comedy-drama starring Holly Hunter captures the ups and downs of a family Thanksgiving in all its messy glory.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Addams Family Values (1993)
Why Watch: The hilarious Thanksgiving play sequence alone earns this gothic comedy a spot on the list. The Addams family’s twisted charm is perfect for holiday laughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Dutch (1991)
Why Watch: This underrated road-trip comedy follows Ed O’Neill as a man escorting his girlfriend’s bratty son home for Thanksgiving, delivering laughs and heartfelt moments.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Why Watch: Though more closely associated with Christmas, this classic opens during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and celebrates holiday magic and kindness.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Why Watch: Al Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance anchors this drama about loyalty and redemption, set against a backdrop of Thanksgiving break.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Tower Heist (2011)
- Why Watch: A lighthearted heist comedy featuring Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller, set during the Thanksgiving season. It’s not deep, but it’s a fun, entertaining watch.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Honorable Mentions
The Ice Storm (1997): A dark Thanksgiving drama for those who prefer serious fare.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986): Thanksgiving frames this Woody Allen classic about family dynamics.
With this lineup, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your Thanksgiving movie marathon as memorable as the feast itself!
directed by Prashanth Neel, brings a bold and gritty spectacle to the big screen, marking a triumphant return for Prabhas in an action-heavy role. Known for his high-energy, raw style (seen in KGF), Neel continues his signature approach here, blending intense action scenes with grandiose settings reminiscent of epic sagas like Game of Thrones. The film revolves around Deva (Prabhas), a powerful yet calm figure with a complex past, and his involvement in a politically charged power struggle with Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Varadha. This layered storyline introduces us to the fictitious city of Khansar, where betrayals and power dynamics keep viewers on edge.
Critics generally appreciate Prabhas’s magnetic performance, noting that he captures the larger-than-life heroism he’s celebrated for since Baahubali. His portrayal, paired with intense fight choreography, keeps the audience engaged, particularly during standout sequences that elevate the film’s dramatic intensity. Prithviraj’s character as Deva’s friend adds an intriguing dynamic, though Shruti Haasan’s role feels underused. While fans of action-packed cinema and Prabhas’s iconic style will enjoy the exhilarating visuals and powerful cinematography, some critics feel the plot loses momentum in the second half, with multiple subplots that dilute its emotional depth. The story is intentionally left open-ended, setting the stage for Salaar: Part 2.
Overall, Salaar is an ambitious action film that will satisfy fans of Prabhas and high-octane spectacles. However, those seeking a tight narrative or deep emotional connections might find it lacking. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars—a solid experience for action enthusiasts, with room for a more focused storyline in its sequel.
Review of Black and White Spoon on Netflix
Top 10 Thanksgiving Movies You Should Be Watching
Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Gladiator 2 Builds On The Legacy Of Its Predecessor,
Is This the Scariest Movie Ever?
Sweetpea
How the TV Show ‘Buffy’ handled SA
Anime Review: Tower of God
Red One – A fresh new action packed point of view on a classic holiday story
Comic-Con 2024: Arthur C Clarke’s Venus Prime TV series
Comic-Con 2024: Max Collins’s TRUE NOIR
Comic-Con 2024: Will Wight’s Cradle
Interview With Heroes & Villains Creative Director Doug Johnson
Thatsmye Interviews: Les Weiler on Henchin’: the Series
