From Christmas specials to action movies, these movies, shows, and music have our attention and we’ll be enjoying them over the holidays.
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December is always a wild month. From the Christmas parties, holiday shopping, and standstill traffic, December never fails to get our senses (and wallets) in high gear. So, what better way to destress from the hustle and bustle of the Christmas rush than with some comfort watches and plays? The holidays, after all, are one of the best times of the year to enjoy a good movie, series, or album with friends, family, or by yourself in the comfort of your room. That’s what we did, and we have some favorites that you might also want to check out, too. See our entertainment picks of the month below.
F1 Drive to Survive – Bianca Lao, Brand Associate
A friend recently convinced me to watch an F1 race with her, and it didn’t take long for me to get hooked. Before diving into the race, we watched a few explainer videos on YouTube about the rules, the drivers, and the fascinating science behind the sport. That introduction sparked my curiosity, leading me to explore Formula 1 beyond just the races—and ultimately to Drive to Survive.
This Netflix series, often credited with bringing a wave of new fans to the sport, gives an exciting, behind-the-scenes look at the drama, rivalries, and personalities of the F1 world. Within a week of watching, I found myself with a favorite team and even a driver “bias.” If you’re looking for a new fixation or something to binge-watch over the holiday break, I highly recommend Drive to Survive.
Seishun Sick by Fujii Kaze – Bianca Lao, Brand Associate
I was fortunate to be among the crowd at Fujii Kaze’s Manila concert a few weeks ago. Before the concert, I was more of a casual listener, but experiencing his live performance and witnessing the diverse audience he brought together completely deepened my appreciation for his artistry.
While his hit Shinunoga E-Wa is well-known, I highly recommend starting with Seishun Sick if you’re new to his music. It’s an upbeat track, but beneath its lively melody, the lyrics pose thought-provoking questions that resonate deeply with today’s youth.
Seeing his vibrant personality shine during the Manila concert made him even more intriguing to me—not just as an artist, but as a person. There’s so much to learn from the way he connects with his audience and expresses himself through his craft.
Dua Lipa Live from the Royal Albert Hall – Raf Bautista, Managing Editor
Dua Lipa performing at the Royal Albert Hall is already iconic in itself. But the inclusion of the live band and orchestra takes this moment to the next level. I’ve been listening to the live album since it dropped and I have no plans on stopping anytime soon. Incorporating live instruments with Dua hits gives the songs a new interpretation and an extra oomph you only get when you hear live music. The album scratches my brain in all the right parts and is one of my favorite things Dua has done in 2024.
Carry-On – Raf Bautista, Managing Editor
Netflix action movies are kinda like blind boxes—you never know what you’re gonna get, especially in terms of quality. But Carry-On was a pleasant surprise as it turned a security checkpoint into a high-stakes action thriller. It’s a fun and engaging flick that makes for an enjoyable watch over the holidays. As a review I saw on Letterboxd said, we all deserve a good fun piece of copaganda for the year.
Mellow Holiday Songs – Nica Glorioso, Features Writer
I promise I’m not just a TikTok bandwagoner. I genuinely enjoy some mellow indie vibes during the holiday season—and maybe some melancholy too (I owned the Taylor Swift Christmas album, hello). Two songs stand out: God I Hope This Year Is Better Than The Last by SYML and Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call by Bleachers. They’re just such a vibe!
Rosie by Rosé – Gelo Quijencio, Multimedia Artist
Rosé’s album Rosie is just pure magic. Every song feels like she’s telling her own story, and you can’t help but feel connected to her emotions. Her voice? Absolutely gorgeous—so soft and powerful at the same time. The mix of acoustic vibes and pop beats gives the whole album this fresh but cozy feel. Honestly, it’s one of those albums you can play on repeat and never get tired of.
A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter – Gelo Quijencio, Multimedia Artist
A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter is such a fun and feel-good musical show. Sabrina’s amazing voice brings so much life to every song—it’s impossible not to sing along. The story is hilarious and full of quirky twists, which makes it super entertaining from start to finish. Plus, the Christmas vibes are so cozy and festive, that it’s like wrapping yourself in a holiday blanket. Sabrina’s charm and comedic timing make her the perfect lead, and she totally owns every scene. It’s one of those shows that leaves you smiling and completely in the holiday spirit!
Strategy by TWICE and Megan Thee Stallion – Gelo Quijencio, Multimedia Artist
I love Strategy because it blends catchy pop hooks with an upbeat, energetic vibe that instantly lifts your mood. The song’s infectious chorus and smooth transitions between the members showcase their incredible vocal chemistry. TWICE’s bright, vibrant concept in the music video complements the song’s dynamic production, making it visually and sonically captivating.
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