The Wasteland Reviewer

Outside the Wasteland (April 2024)

There is more to life than movies, right? That is an obvious question (or is it…) but I find it important to focus on other interests in my life as well. Outside the Wasteland is my new avenue to express my thoughts on things outside the world, the realm of film as there are other things I like to spend my time doing. Hopefully this monthly diversion might inspire you to check out other great experiences outside of a movie theater. 

Television: 

Hazbin Hotel Season One

Who would have thought a little adult oriented animated series would capture so much attention in this saturated television landscape? This is not Invincible. But Amazon has another mature animated series that is certainly worth your time. Hazbin Hotel is such an interesting exploration of queer culture, religion, and themes of forgiveness and rehabilitation. The daughter of Lucifer opens a rehabilitation hotel in Hell to help sinners make their way back to Heaven. The great world building in the series helps us explore Hell and Heaven in some impactful ways. As you look at the designs and costumes for everything and everyone, you realize that there is such a cool vibrant want to bring this type of story to life. The 1920’s infused style creates a vintage and cool feel to the environment that finds perfectly within its sensibilities. But what really brings this world to life is the obvious musical theater influences in the storytelling. There are plenty of catchy and poignant songs throughout this first season that work on a musicality level but also on a character level as they struggle with so many complex issues. The characters are unique and flawed, making for an engaging journey of self-discovery for them as they navigate sex, drugs, other addictions, and plenty of other taboo topics that fit perfectly in this realm of forgiveness tucked away in Hell. You can get behind them and their journeys and that just makes this experience so much more engaging and impactful outside of the cool world-building and music. The voice cast is special as each brings layers and personality to their characters including Erika Henningsen, Stephanie Beatriz, Blake Roman, and Keith David (amongst others).

Books: 

“Mental Floss: The Curious Movie Buff: A Miscellany of Fantastic Films from the Past 50 Years”, Jennifer M. Wood, Mental Floss

Do you love movies like I do? You might if you are reading this article. But one of my favorite things about different artistic media is when they can connect in new ways and deepen the appreciation for both. Now Mental Floss’ “The Curious Movie Buff” is not a deep and engrossing analysis into the art of filmmaking. It is a fun look into the world of film as it highlights so many films over the past 50 years. There are specific films that get bigger spotlights and Wood and crew deliver some interesting Fun Facts about the behind-the-scenes creation of those films. There are plenty of curated lists as well of specific genres or categories of films as well. A book like “Mental Floss: The Curious Movie Buff” is a perfect way for someone to expand their film horizons and create a watchlist. For those who have seen an insane number of films already (like myself) it acts as a fun diversion into the world of film and gives plenty of films their flowers. Are you a burgeoning cinephile? This might be a great way to push you into the next step.

Music:

“Training Season”, Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa is on a rocket of fame, isn’t she? Her breakout album “Future Nostalgia” is stacked to the gills with hit after hit. Ever since the release of “Dance the Night” for the release of Barbie, Dua Lipa has been on my radar, and I have loved everyone’s new song that she releases. With “Radical Optimism”, her latest album, on the horizon, she has been dropping killer singles for a while now. Each month, I could probably just choose another Lipa song as the one to highlight as I cannot help but be lost in the catchy tunes, the infectious movements, and the relatable themes of her songs. “Training Season” just might be my most listened to song of 2024 already as this ear bug crawled right up in there and latched onto my brain. The opening riffs and building beats thrust you into a thumping and high energy song that will make you want to get up and move. There is a great mix of soundscape, electronica, and riffs that perfectly compliment Dua’s incredible voice but never overshadows her. The song swirls around in its beats and delivers a high energy experience all the way to its big drop toward the end of the song. The lyrics also strike a chord for all who have navigated dating and new love. We are all done with the games and are ready for the real thing. Luckily Dua Lipa has delivered a catchy and infectious anthem just for this occasion.

Podcasting: 

“Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett”, Pre-Production with Chris Stuckmann 

Have you been…Stuckmannized? I have been a fan of Chris Stuckmann since I was in college and have used him as a benchmark in terms of film criticism for myself. Seeing him expand into actual filmmaking and podcasting has been inspiring as he chases his dreams (which I certainly have plenty of my own). His podcast “Pre-Production” is great as he gets the opportunity to speak with other filmmakers and talk about their journey and craft in a casual yet impactful way. These are just some friendly filmmakers discussing their craft and experiences. Radio Silence is getting tons of love for their latest film Abigail after a few big wins in Ready or Not, Scream, and Scream VI. This discussion might only be around 25 minutes, but they delve into so many great learning experiences of filmmaking that this is essential listening for any new up-and-coming filmmakers. Their perspectives on working with young cast members were interesting as they try to balance all their requirements including limitations on work hours and required education. Abigail seemed to be a great experience for them, and they shared how they planned, evolved, and delivered upon their vision. Their love for their crew and the value they place on the contributions of others is quite inspiring as well. Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett made for engaging guests who will help you broaden your perspective on the art of filmmaking.

Wrestling: 

The Intercontinental Championship: Gunther VS Sami Zayn, WrestleMania XL: 

Are you sad that the reign of The Ring General Gunther has come to an end? I sure am. Many casual fans might not be a fan of this cruel foreign villain, but you cannot deny the incredible work he does in the ring. He made his Intercontinental Championship reign THE premiere reign in WWE even with the likes of Roman Reigns and Rhea Ripley holding belts long term. His reign needed to end eventually as he would be making his way into the main event scene soon enough. I am not even a huge fan of who they decided to have him drop the title to either (justice for Chad Gable). But the story told between Gunther and Sami Zayn in their WrestleMania title match was perfect. Of course, there was some great back and forth wrestling between the two to start as they are both so talented in the ring and specifically unique in their approaches. Gunther is perfect in the ring with so many weapons. Zayn is the great underdog of WWE, and his high energy and big impact maneuvers will get any crowd to cheer. Gunther threw everything at Sami and Sami kept kicking out of each pin. But what made this match standout and open the door to a logical way for the nearly unbeatable Gunther to be beat was this final stretch. Zayn had his wife at ringside. Gunther became cockier as the match progressed as he taunted Sami’s wife and continued to punish Sami instead of going for the win. Gunther for the first time in his reign took his eyes off the ball. This was a natural progression for a story about a 666-day title reign and an underdog challenger. The final moments of Sami “Hulking Up” and delivering a crazy looking super-brain buster on the top turn buckle and a pair of Helluva Kicks…and that was the match. This was poetry in the ring and everything I love about pro wrestling.