Music, Movies & TV

By DENISE K. JAMES

Coming to a theatre near you

Wuthering Heights (R)
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, a classic story is getting a breath of fresh air with the talent of A-listers Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. The trailer looks appropriately moody and romantic, and is directed by Emerald Fennell, best known for her work as a writer and producer on “Killing Eve.” In 2020, Fennell’s feature directorial debut “Promising Young Women,” won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Could another Oscar be close behind?

Psycho Killer (R)
Not a fan of romance? Opt for “Psycho Killer,” directed by Gavin Polone, a producer of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and films like “Stir of Echoes” and “Secret Window.” Starring Georgina Campbell, this horror-thriller follows police officer, Jane Thorne, on a mission to take down a serial killer known as the Satanic Slasher (James Preston Rogers) after her husband is murdered.

Hoppers (PG)
Hitting theaters in early March, this animated science-fiction drama is about Mabel, an animal lover, whose mind transforms into a beaver’s so she can communicate with non-human friends just in time to stop the creep of development. Directed by Daniel Chong, the feel-good flick employs the vocal talents of Jon Hamm and Bobby Moynihan. 

Streaming Now

The Beast in Me (Netflix)
Starring Claire Danes, Matthew Rhys
ΗΗΗΗ
I typically steer clear of anything labeled “thriller” since violence isn’t my cup of tea. But this limited-edition series is more psychological and literary. Danes plays best-selling author, Aggie Wiggs, who’s grieving a loss and unable to finish her next book. Enter new neighbor, Nile Jarvis (Rhys), a real estate developer and the alleged murderer of his first wife. In addition to the juicy premise, the show offers a great soundtrack (Pixies!) and excellent chemistry among the characters, particularly Danes and Rhys. I applaud its ability to combine reality with a bit of TV fantasy, and I didn’t pick my phone up once during the episodes—the modern testament to something worth watching. 

Album Review 

Lana Del Rey 
Stove 
The songstress’ tenth album is a foray into country music, according to sources, but let’s be honest: her moody Americana didn’t have far to go. A few live covers, including “Stars Fell on Alabama,” will please fans of classic country, while longtime Lanatics will love singles like “Henry Come On” and “Bluebird,” featuring the artist’s meaningful lyrics and soulful delivery. 

Modern Love Playlist
Don’t listen to naysayers on social media —love is real and still out there, and we have the playlist to prove it. From country and folk to pop and rock, these artists capture the complexities of the human heart. 

•  David Bowie — “Modern Love”  We couldn’t leave this one off, could we?

•  Harry Styles — “Adore You”  Because the L-word can be overused. 

•  Billie Eilish — “Birds of a Feather”  They flock together, after all. 

•  Taylor Swift — “Cardigan”  Even when you're young, you recognize love. 

•  Deana Carter — “Strawberry Wine”  We never forget our first sip. 

•  Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes — “Home”  An anthem of earnest devotion. 

•  Journey — “Faithfully”  Dating an artist? This one’s for you. 

•  Jack Johnson — “Better Together”  We look at the stars when we’re together! 

•  The Beachboys — “God Only Knows”  Those chords can melt a jaded heart. 

•  Usher — “U Got It Bad”  When somebody makes you change your ways. 

•  Whitney Houston — “The Greatest Love of All” It’s learning to love yourself. 

•  Labi Siffre — “Bless the Telephone”  The right phone call can change your life. 

• Arianna Grande — “Love Language”  When they hold it down with every word. 

•  Elton John — “Tiny Dancer”  Those opening piano notes do it every time. 

•  Led Zeppelin — “Thank You”  The fade out is beautiful, just like a love story.