Entertainment
Sitting in Bars with Cake review: A resonant tale of friendship and loss worth tasting
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A decade ago, Audrey Shulman went ahead with a wacky plan to find a boyfriend. She would bake cakes and bring them to bars in order to meet guys every week for around a year. But it all didn’t go as planned. Midway through this ‘cakebarring’ experiment, her friend Chrissy is diagnosed with cancer. Their real-life friendship becomes the crux of the new Prime Video entry, directed by Trish Sie. It’s the bittersweet tearjerker entry that is headed exactly where it should, but does so with a resonant ode to female friendships and self-discovery that makes you want to sit through and have a slice for yourself. (Also read: Priscilla first reviews: Sofia Coppola’s film gets 7 min standing ovation at Venice Fest, glowing reviews)
The premise
Sitting in Bars with Cake starts with Jane (Yara Shahidi) and Corinne (Odessa A’zion) as best friends who have moved from Arizona to Los Angeles. Corinne works as a junior music agent and Jane is the mail room clerk preparing for law school. But her real passion lies in baking. Yet, Jane is the shy one among the two, and in the early scenes, she declares, “If it works for Mr. Rogers, it works for me.” In another scene, she speaks passively about a cake recipe a second too long for a crowd to pay any heed. Corrine, on the other hand, is sparkly and outgoing, and comes up with the plan of trying out a new bar every week for a year with her homemade cake as a way to meet men. They name this experiment, ‘cakebarring.’
What works
Just as their plan gets rolling and everything seems to go accordingly, Corrine has a seizure. On diagnosis, both of them learn that Corrine has brain cancer. Her parents (played by Ron Livingston and Martha Kelly) arrive shocked and insistent on helping out. But Corrine wants to stay back and be with Jane. From here on, the film takes a restless and frequently predictable turn to manoeuvre the many turns the central friendship endures – shaking and trembling with the energy of its two lead performances.
Final thoughts
Shahidi gives a finely etched performance, yet her Jane largely feels drawn in bold, predictable markers devoid of necessary interiority. In contrast, A’zion manages to do a lot even with so less. She injects Corrine with such spirit, verve, and aching desire that it’s hard to look away when she is on screen. Then there is the underused Bette Midler, who struts and frets on screen and then disappears as Corrine’s boss – forever a scene-stealing delight. In the midst of hospital visits and caregiving, the plot point of the cakebarring project is forgotten somehow.
Still, the latter half of this uncommonly intelligent film stays tightly focused and pragmatic. Even as the moments of devastation appears, Sie covers the predictable ground with understated authenticity. Aided with Lauren Connelly’s sharp editing work and Tracy Dishman’s beautifully succinct production design, Sitting in Bars with Cake offers an acute and sensitive exploration of what it means to care for someone. Perhaps it could have done better with a little formative daring with its ingredients, akin to the clever concoctions of its baked goods. It still deserves a taste.
Sitting in Bars with Cake is streaming on Prime Video.
Entertainment
Beyoncé: The Undisputed Queen of Reinvention, Empowerment, and Global Influence
Few artists have redefined the boundaries of music, fashion, and culture like Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter. From her early days as the lead vocalist of Destiny’s Child to her meteoric rise as a global solo icon, Beyoncé’s journey is a masterclass in evolution, artistry, and resilience. Over the years, she has not only dominated the music charts but also transcended the industry, becoming a symbol of empowerment, innovation, and cultural pride.
Beyoncé’s career is a testament to the power of reinvention. With every album, from Dangerously in Love to Renaissance, she has showcased a unique ability to evolve her sound, explore new genres, and reflect the changing times. Her boldness in tackling themes like love, heartbreak, race, and feminism in works like Lemonade has set her apart as an artist willing to bare her soul while challenging societal norms. Beyond the music, her attention to visual storytelling through iconic music videos, such as Formation and her Netflix special Homecoming, has revolutionized how fans experience her artistry.
As much as she is a musical powerhouse, Beyoncé’s impact extends far beyond the stage. Her bold and unapologetic sense of style has made her a fashion icon, from her show-stopping red carpet appearances to the global success of her Ivy Park brand. Each fashion moment tells a story, merging couture with cultural commentary, making her an influential figure in the fashion world.
Philanthropy and activism are equally central to Beyoncé’s legacy. Through her BeyGOOD initiative, she has contributed to causes ranging from disaster relief to scholarships for marginalized communities. Her work amplifies voices that need to be heard, and her consistent advocacy for gender equality and racial justice reflects her commitment to creating lasting change.
Beyoncé’s influence is not just in her music or activism but also in how she inspires millions to embrace their power and individuality. Her ability to challenge norms, redefine success, and uplift others cements her as a cultural icon of our time. Beyoncé isn’t just an entertainer; she is a movement, a symbol of excellence, and a queen who reigns supreme in the hearts of her fans and the annals of history.
Entertainment
Dua Lipa: The Global Pop Sensation Redefining Modern Music and Culture
Dua Lipa has quickly become one of the most influential and celebrated artists of her generation. Known for her velvety voice, empowering lyrics, and bold style, she has transcended the boundaries of pop music to become a global icon. With a career that skyrocketed in just a few years, Dua Lipa continues to prove that she is not just a star but a force reshaping modern music and culture.
Her rise to fame began with her self-titled debut album, which featured hits like New Rules—a modern anthem for self-respect and independence. Dua’s ability to blend dance beats with emotional depth became her signature, solidifying her position as a pop powerhouse. Her sophomore album, Future Nostalgia, was a game-changer, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and acclaim for reviving disco and funk influences in contemporary music. Songs like Don’t Start Now and Levitating became global hits, further proving her ability to craft timeless music that resonates across generations.
But Dua Lipa is more than just a chart-topping singer. She has become a style icon, known for her daring and eclectic fashion sense that effortlessly blends haute couture with streetwear. Her appearances on red carpets and collaborations with luxury brands like Versace have cemented her as a trendsetter.
In addition to her music and fashion influence, Dua has used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. As a second-generation immigrant from Kosovo, she has been vocal about her heritage and has supported initiatives to uplift her community. In 2020, she co-founded Sunny Hill Foundation to help those in need in Kosovo, showcasing her commitment to philanthropy.
Dua’s versatility extends to the business world as well, with ventures such as her podcast At Your Service, where she connects with influential figures to discuss creativity and culture. Her ability to engage with her audience on multiple levels makes her a modern icon who continues to inspire and innovate.
Whether dominating the charts, turning heads with her fashion, or making a difference through her advocacy, Dua Lipa represents the perfect blend of artistry and authenticity. She is not just shaping the future of pop music but also empowering a new generation to embrace individuality and fearlessness.
Entertainment
Selena Gomez: The Multi-Talented Star Redefining Success and Authenticity
Selena Gomez has proven time and again that she is far more than a household name. From her roots as a Disney Channel star to her rise as a globally renowned singer, actress, and producer, Selena has built a career marked by resilience, authenticity, and boundless talent. Her journey has been one of transformation, as she continues to evolve and inspire millions with her artistic achievements and personal advocacy.
Selena’s impact in the entertainment industry began with her breakout role on Wizards of Waverly Place, where her charm and comedic timing made her a beloved figure among young audiences. Transitioning to music, she proved her versatility with hits like Come & Get It, Bad Liar, and Lose You to Love Me, showcasing her ability to channel raw emotion and vulnerability into her songs. Her recent album, Rare, not only topped charts but also solidified her place as an artist with a unique voice and perspective.
As an actress and producer, Selena has expanded her influence with critically acclaimed projects such as 13 Reasons Why and the hit series Only Murders in the Building. The latter has earned her recognition for her comedic and dramatic range, further proving that her talents extend far beyond music. In every role, Selena brings an authenticity that resonates with audiences, making her a relatable and enduring figure in Hollywood.
Beyond her professional achievements, Selena’s openness about her struggles with mental health and lupus has endeared her to fans around the world. As the founder of Rare Beauty, she has used her platform to promote self-love and support mental health awareness through the Rare Impact Fund. Her advocacy for these causes has made her a trailblazer in breaking stigmas and encouraging meaningful conversations.
Selena Gomez’s ability to balance a thriving career with a commitment to authenticity and giving back makes her a role model for the modern generation. Whether she’s lighting up the screen, creating chart-topping music, or championing causes close to her heart, Selena continues to redefine what it means to be a star in today’s world.
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