What Movies Have I Watched?

1. Not Suitable for Work (2026), Creator: Mindy Kaling, Actors: Ella Hunt, Avantika, Will Angus

This series had potential. “Not Suitable for Work” revolves around a group of young adults navigating the world. Finding your dream job is tough. I thought that’s what this series would focus on, but just like other media, romance is its prime focus. Credits include Ella Hunt, Avantika, and Will Angus. I’m surprised that Mindy Kaling created this series. None of the characters have depth. The actors give the weak stories their best shot. Writers seriously thought a relationship between an employee and her boss was more engrossing than growing her name in the business world? To me, that’s exciting. 

2. Sweet Magnolias Season 5 (2026), Creator: Sheryl J. Anderson, Actors: JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Brooke Elliott, and Heather Headley)

My late grandmother and I enjoyed watching “Sweet Magnolias.” This series has become too sugarcoated. Everything the characters say is too soap opera-like. Maddie (JoAnna Garcia Swisher), Dana Sue (Brooke Elliott), and Helen’s (Heather Headley) friendship is the core of the series. Why are the teenagers' storylines so important? The series used to be an equal mixture of storylines in season 1, but “Sweet Magnolias” has gone on longer than it should. It is a pleasant series, which we need more of. “Sweet Magnolias” is a series about growth, friendship, and finding your way. We can all relate to it.

3. The Choral (2025), Director: Nicholas Hytner, Actors: Ralph Fiennes, Roger Allam, Mark Addy

“The Choral” (2025) is a window into history. Set during World War I, the film follows a group of young people whose lives are transformed as the war begins pulling their generation apart. Ralph Fiennes stars as Dr. Henry Guthrie. Fiennes is an outstanding actor and embodies any role. Nicholas Hytner’s direction gives the story a quiet, intimate quality, allowing the characters and period setting to speak volumes. The film is for history buffs. It lagged a bit in some parts, but it’s a film that represents an important time in history. It’s a moving story about uncertainty and sacrifice.

4. The Book of Love (2016), Director: Phil Purple, Actors: Jason Sudeikis, Maisie Williams

“The Book of Love” is a charming indie film about friendship. What I love about discovering new films is how they help people rediscover their pathways. Jason Sudeikis and Maisie Williams star as Henry and Millie. If you have not heard of Williams, I highly recommend you look up her movies. The film also stars Jessica Biel and Mary Steenburgen. Director Phil Purple created a story about loneliness and grief. Grief reshapes us. It’s a different depiction of grief, but encouraging audiences to be open. And not endure it alone. Stories are all about the unexpected, which this film does. 

5. Don’t Tell Mom the Baby Sitter’s Dead (1991), Director: Stephen Herek, Actors: Christina Applegate

This movie was a refreshing surprise. Based on one minute of the trailer, I thought “Don’t Tell Mom’s...” plot would be the kids trying to hide the dead babysitter. Instead, Swell (Christina Applegate), the oldest of her siblings, gets a full-time job in the corporate industry to support her family while their mother is away. Applegate has a strong performance. Unlike other films with similar storylines, the film avoids a romance. Instead, Swell is curious to explore a career and makes astounding leaps. Work films are more important than you think. We’re finding a part of ourselves in our careers. 

6. Practical Magic (1998), Director: Griffin Dunne, Actors: Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman

I watched “Practical Magic” (1998) a few years ago, and I was hoping a second watch would help change my perspective, but no, I still didn’t understand what was happening. The film is a charming supernatural romance that never figures out what story it wants to tell. “Practical Magic” is so scattered. The plot jumps between family curses, romance, witchcraft, and murder. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman’s (Sally and Ginny) chemistry is easily the best part. Even when the story loses its way, the sisters remain impossible not to root for. I’m curious to see how the sequel plays out.