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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)

Yara Shahidi and Odessa A’zion in a still from Sitting in Bars with Cake.
Yara Shahidi and Odessa A’zion in a still from Sitting in Bars with Cake.

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.

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Entertainment

Virat Kohli: India’s Most Valued Celebrity with a Brand Value of $227.9 Million

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Virat Kohli, the charismatic cricketer and former captain of the Indian national team, has once again proven his dominance, not just on the cricket field but also in the commercial arena. According to recent reports, Kohli’s brand value has soared to an astounding $227.9 million, making him the most valued celebrity in India. This impressive feat underscores his immense popularity and the significant impact he has across various sectors.

A Sporting Legend

Virat Kohli’s journey to becoming a brand icon began with his extraordinary cricketing talent. Widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the world, Kohli has broken numerous records and achieved milestones that have solidified his place in cricket history. His aggressive playing style, coupled with his leadership qualities, has endeared him to millions of fans globally. This sporting excellence has naturally transitioned into immense commercial appeal.

The Power of Brand Kohli

Kohli’s brand value of $227.9 million reflects his extensive influence and marketability. Brands gravitate towards him for his ability to connect with a diverse audience. His endorsements span various sectors, including sports apparel, health and fitness products, luxury goods, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs). Some of the notable brands associated with Kohli include Puma, Audi, MRF, and Tissot. His consistent performance, charismatic personality, and clean image make him an ideal ambassador for a wide array of products and services.

Social Media Presence

A significant part of Kohli’s brand value can be attributed to his massive social media presence. With millions of followers across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, Kohli has a direct line to a vast audience. His posts, which range from professional achievements to personal moments, garner significant engagement, providing brands with an effective channel to reach potential consumers. This digital influence amplifies his marketability and contributes substantially to his overall brand value.

Beyond Cricket

Virat Kohli’s influence extends beyond the cricket pitch. He has ventured into various entrepreneurial activities, including co-owning the Indian Super League (ISL) football club FC Goa and launching his own athleisure brand, Wrogn. These ventures not only diversify his portfolio but also enhance his brand’s reach and resonance. Kohli’s commitment to fitness and a healthy lifestyle has also positioned him as a role model, further boosting his appeal to health and wellness brands.

Comparison with Peers

Kohli’s brand value places him ahead of other notable Indian celebrities, including Bollywood stars and fellow sports icons. While film actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, and Deepika Padukone also command significant brand endorsements, Kohli’s unique blend of athletic prowess, leadership, and digital influence gives him a distinct edge. This makes him a preferred choice for brands looking to tap into the sports and lifestyle segments.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli’s brand value of $227.9 million is a testament to his extraordinary appeal and multifaceted persona. His journey from a promising young cricketer to India’s most valued celebrity highlights his relentless drive, strategic brand partnerships, and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. As Kohli continues to excel both on and off the field, his brand value is likely to rise even further, reinforcing his status as a global icon and a powerhouse in the world of endorsements.

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Samantha Gabronino, Katwalk Doll Queen, Wins Miss Freedom of the World Grand Prix Title

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Samantha Gabronino, a talented and experienced pageant veteran, has made history by winning the prestigious Grand Prix title of Miss Freedom of the World. This impressive achievement marks another milestone in Samantha’s illustrious career, solidifying her position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of pageantry.

Samantha’s journey to the top began with her participation in the esteemed Binibining Pilipinas, one of the most prominent national pageants in the Philippines, and other national pageants which earned her an İnternational crown, giving her an opportunity to represent her country The Philippines. Her extensive experience in the industry also includes hosting various events and shows, acting, modeling, and showcasing her vocal talents as a singer, including dancing.

As a Katwalk Doll Queen and Talent of House Of Katwalk, Samantha has consistently demonstrated her dedication, passion, and natural flair for the craft. Her latest triumph is a testament to her hard work and perseverance.

The House of Katwalk, led by the Queen Mother of Pageantry, Katniss Griffiths, is thrilled to welcome Samantha back with a grand celebration. This momentous occasion will be marked with a special welcome event, honoring Samantha’s remarkable achievement.

Samantha’s victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring beauty queens and talents worldwide. Her legacy continues to grow, and her name becomes synonymous with excellence, grace, and beauty. Congratulations, Samantha Gabronino, on your well-deserved win!

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Sonakshi Sinha Once Said, She Dated A Celebrity But The World Is Unaware, Fan Say ‘Shahid Or Arjun’

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Sonakshi Sinha’s revelation about dating a celebrity has sparked curiosity and speculation among fans, with many speculating whether the mystery celebrity is Shahid Kapoor or Arjun Kapoor.

While Sinha has chosen to keep the identity of her former flame under wraps, fans are eager to connect the dots based on past interactions and on-screen chemistry.

Whether it’s the rumored romance with Shahid Kapoor during the filming of “R… Rajkumar” or the alleged relationship with Arjun Kapoor during the making of “Tevar,” the guessing game continues as fans try to decipher the cryptic clues.

However, until Sinha decides to reveal the truth, the identity of her mystery celebrity beau remains a tantalizing mystery, leaving fans intrigued and eager for more revelations.

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