The Edit: industry growth trends, astrological vibes & essential gear in the new year
plus a few more things i'm using, trying, thinking, binging or buying.
Hello from the Auteur Edit, a roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business.
If you haven't heard it enough yet — or from me — Happy New Year. I’m not the resolution list kind of person, so this will not be that. But if it makes you feel better, I am striving to get back into the routine of being consistent with this newsletter — even considering a focus on more tech related media content. But today’s list is a hodge podge, so let’s get to it.
In the bag. In a previous Edit I shared details about the tote I carry that keeps it all together for me no matter where I happen to be any given day. I got to thinking maybe I should do a ‘what’s in my bag’ kinda thing. Then, I thought, nah maybe not, no one cares. But after some internal dialogue, I split the baby. In the spirit of a bag reveal, I am sharing one thing from my bag that makes me happy and is probably the most useful — at the moment. Hands down, it’s my Cavision director’s viewfinder. In addition to its obvious portability, it’s perfect for framing, at its price point. It’s quick and easy to setup shots I envision, using a variety of focal settings and simple, customizable adjustments. It’s got a neck loop, lens cap and durable hardshell carrying case that means I can throw it — literally — in my bag without worry. Price points range from low to very high for viewfinders in general, so I’m certain there’s one that’ll meet your needs wherever you are. And there are far more intricate and advanced versions than mine. But if you want something that’s medium-priced, intermediate level, this can get you what you need just the same. I’ve had mine for a few years now, use it all the time and it’s held up pretty well.
On my screen. I dipped in and out of watching the Golden Globes that aired this week — and missed a lot of it. But when I wasn’t looking, I was tracking and keeping an eye out for some of my favorite shows, films and performers. And I have to say, I wasn’t disappointed. I’d go far as to say impressed even. I’m not going to get into all of the who’s and why’s or why not’s but give you just a quick ticker of my top and well deserved recipients — and can I just say what a wonderful year for the over 40 woman! Performers on my list include Zoe Saldana (what can’t she do), Viola Davis (chef kiss), Demi Moore (just go girl), Jodie Foster (what happens when a woman leads a detective thriller), Colin Farrell (can’t stop talking about or wanting to see more of his Penguin persona), and Kieran Caulkin (talent that knows no bounds). As for episodic television, all hail Netflix’s Baby Reindeer — probably my favorite series of the year — right up there with Amazon’s Cross. And for the film category — Conclave. I got it in just before the Globes — and so glad I did — very much worth the watch and the award. And I don’t hand those out willy nilly. Check out the full list in the link below.
In my closet. Cooler air, colder temps and a lot of snow, have officially ushered in the new year. That means it’s that time when I can consistently wear my favorite kind of trousers — corduroys. They’re just the perfect pant. They’re comfy, colorful, keep you warm and come in so many styles that they appeal to all tastes. Among my Winter rotation are these super soft, well tailored and best of all, earth conscious pair from Pact. Their water-saving organic cotton, made in a Fair Trade factory bonafides are among the reasons that make it so. And if you’re fond of forgiving — look no further. The snap front and back side elastic waist, give them just the right amount of stretch. While I have a number of colored cords from various retailers, I’d really love a few more in this particular style. These are probably the most comfortable pair of slacks I own — including leggings if they counted as slacks. Pact has marked them down to an astounding 70% off — and I’m kinda miffed since I paid full price when I purchased them. But that amazing price point comes with a caveat — there are very limited size options. Like almost none. So, good luck.
On my reading list. Keeping up with industry trends is not just my job but who I am. Knowledge is power and nothing makes me feel more powerful than continuous learning about the business side of my business. So, what’s on tap for the coming year? Well, aside from AI — that’s another post for another time — the outlook looks promising, sort of. This might be the year the box office gets back on track, but if you’re an indie, or looking to watch something not-so-packaged and predictable, the odds are not in your favor. Over 80 percent of “new” content is regurgitated content (think franchise remakes, sequels, origin stories, etcetera, etcetera). I mean it’s a model that works — and makes money — so I can’t begrudge the big studios that. But it also means indie filmmakers have to get more strategic with distribution, focusing on more targeted content-specific audiences. And although “2025 is set to be a robust year for the global box office,” even for indies, Variety warns that projections still fall below pre-pandemic levels. The article in the link, highlights some of these projected analytics.
On my table. As long as I’m talking about keeping warm in this January freeze, let’s acknowledge that it’s still comfort food season, right? Well, the dessert of comfort that I bake on repeat beginning in November, happens to be the perfect Winter pie. That is to say — sweet potato pie. You heard me, not pumpkin. My maternal grandmother was from the South so we don’t — and never will — do pumpkin. Not judging the pumpkin-lovers though. Every year, around this time, it’s always sweet potato for me as it’s one of the quickest, easiest desserts — with feels of decadence — that you’ll bake. And if you like robust spices, it also happens to have far more flavor than its orange cousin — imo. The two pies pictured here are a pair of my most recent — which I’m quite proud of. Baked to golden perfection with the right amount of sweet, I like to use small, round cookie cutters and cut them into mini pies to serve or freeze for a small sweet treat. They’re great with or without whipped cream. I take mine as simple as you see it. As for the recipe, sorry — not sorry — I’m going to gatekeep here (you know, family secrets and all). But I will say, you’ll find most of the common ingredients we all know for this particular pie. And as a consolation prize, I will share my most important secret ingredient — a teaspoon of Grand Marnier. The notes of smoky orange make all the difference to bring out so much of the flavor. No — imitation orange will not do. Give a try and Bon appetit'!
All the feels. This simple piece of pottery has me walking into 2025 with some big Gemini energy. When I made the sustainable choice to downsize my home and many of my material goods that were collecting dust or taking up space, I donated all but a handful of my massive mug collection and have done a great job not adding to it in the years since. It’s been hard, I admit. I say that to say that I broke the non-buying streak — for just this one. I simply could not pass on this Eleanor Bowmer Zodiac mug from Anthropologie. Every now and then an artist comes along and captures the true spirit of a Gemini. And this one has. It really is more than a mug. It's a piece of art. Art that reflects my astrological sign with beautiful graphics, intricately weaving my favorite color in between complimentary jewel tones, imprinted on its smooth and sturdy canvas. In fact, all of the Zodiac signs are beautifully represented, but I really find what they’ve done with mine exquisitely fun and creative. And that's rare for stoneware. Of course, this is not something I actually need, but I guarantee that in addition to putting it to good use, I’ll keep it forever. So, that makes it a sustainable purchase, right? I’m adding the link to it for you with a caution. This literally sold out in all but one of the signs within a week of me purchasing mine — whew! So, unless you’re a Taurus — as of this writing — you’re out of luck. That is until — cross your fingers — the next restock.
That’s another Auteur Edit. I hope you found something useful. Thanks again for your support. I’d love to hear what you think or might want to add to today’s list.