Music, Movies & TV - Nov/Dec 2025

By DENISE K. JAMES

Coming To a Theatre Near You

Jay Kelly (R)
Director Noah Baumbach’s latest comes to theaters mid-November and boasts an all-star cast including George Clooney, Adam Sandler, Laura Dern and Greta Gerwig. The coming-of-age dramedy about a soul-search through Europe has earned positive reviews on the indie circuit, and the word on the street is that it’s a self-reflection for Clooney. 

Sarah’s Oil (PG) 
This 1900s period film, debuting in theaters early November, is based on the true story of Sarah Rector, the 11-year-old Black girl who became wealthy after oil was discovered on her land. The film stars Haitian American actor Naya Desir-Johnson as Sarah and is directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh, best known for his 2006 miniseries, “The Path to 9/11.” 

The Housemaid (R)
On Christmas day, psychological thriller “The Housemaid” hits the big screen starring Sydney and Amanda Seyfried. It’s based on a novel by Freida McFadden, an author-slash-physician who specializes in brain injuries and is also one of the film’s producers. 

Streaming Now 

The Map That Leads to You  (Prime) • PG-13
Starring KJ Apa, Madelyn Cline
In this feel-good flick on Prime, what starts out as a predictable meet-cute with two twenty-somethings evolves into something more poignant. The slow burn between Jack and Emma is puzzling, considering they don't have much time, but also refreshing—their connection isn't just physical; it's spiritual. Turns out, Jack has a secret that he hasn't shared: his fate is undetermined. A romance with just enough spice to temper the sugar, this movie is under two hours—ideal for holiday family viewing (it's PG-13, though there is a modest love scene)—and a reminder to live in the moment and have hope for the future rather than fear.

Gather + Glow Playlist

Gather with friends, glow with music—this playlist sets the pace. It’s a bright, feel-good mix that blends timeless classics with modern hits to spark warmth and connection for gatherings this season.

• Nelly Furtado – “Glow”
• Charles & Eddie – “Shine”
• Khruangbin & Leon Bridges – “Texas Sun”
• Gorillaz – “Feel Good Inc.”
• Jack Johnson – “Better Together”
• Coldplay – “A Sky Full of Stars”
• Kool & the Gang – “Celebration”
• Mary J. Blige – “Family Affair”
• Taylor Swift – “Sparks Fly”
• Kacey Musgraves – “Golden Hour”
• Aretha Franklin – “Sparkle”
• American Authors – “Best Day of My Life”
• Rihanna – “Diamonds”
• Father John Misty – “Real Love Baby”
• Lenny Kravitz – “Let Love Rule”

Album Review

Mariah Carey: Here For It All 
Mariah’s fans tend to fall into two camps: those who cherish her older albums of songbird ballads, and those who appreciate her edgier era. Finally, we have something that covers both. “Here For It All,” the sixteenth, is here just in time to give everyone’s favorite holiday tune a rest. Stream “Type Dangerous” for sexy vibes or the title track for a ‘90s throwback.