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In addition to reading, I also enjoy watching! These are my favorite television series and films that came out in 2023 (with one 2022 exception). All are available at the library on DVD!

 

The Last of Us

Joel and Ellie, a pair connected through the harshness of the world they live in, are forced to endure brutal circumstances and ruthless killers on a trek across a post-outbreak America. I was not expecting to like this one as I’m definitely over The Walking Dead/post-apocalyptic stuff, but it is so good, especially the first and third episodes. Joel and Ellie’s relationship is adorable, and who doesn’t love Pedro Pascal!?

 

Fatal Attraction

An affair threatens the lives of Dan Gallagher and his wife, Beth, in this reimagining of the 1987 movie, exploring marriage and infidelity through the lens of modern attitudes toward strong women, personality disorders, and coercive control. I’ve never seen the original movie, but this remake was intense and full of twists, and Lizzy Caplan was amazing as always.

 

Poker Face

A mystery-of-the-week series follows Charlie Cale, who has an extraordinary ability to determine when someone is lying. She hits the road in her Plymouth Barracuda and with every stop encounters a new cast of characters and strange crimes she can’t help but solve. I would describe this as a modern-day Columbo. Even though her “extraordinary ability” and stumbling upon a murder mystery in every town she visits is extremely unrealistic, it was enjoyable.

 

Barbie

Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans. This was my #1 movie of the year. I’ve seen it twice and will likely see it many more times. Ridiculous and hilarious, but it also had heart and positive messaging. Loved all the songs!

 

The Little Mermaid

The youngest of King Triton’s daughters, Ariel is a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. Longing to find out more about the world beyond the sea, Ariel visits the surface and falls for the dashing Prince Eric. Following her heart, she makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to experience life on land. The 1989 version is my favorite Disney movie so I had high expectations for the remake, and they were met. It was true to the original with some fun updates. Ursula, Scuttle, and Sebastian were the stars of the show!

 

Triangle of Sadness

Carl and Yaya, a couple of influencers, are invited to a luxury cruise ship alongside a group of out-of-touch wealthy people. The situation takes an unexpected turn when a brutal storm hits the ship. It was entertaining and funny – if you’ve seen the show White Lotus, it has similar vibes. Fantastic ending!

 

Jen Pace Dickenson is the Youth Services Librarian for Polk County Public Libraries. For information about the library’s resources, programs, and other services, visit polklibrary.org or call (828) 894-8721.