“Pain Killers” – A TV Show Review

Blog, TV Shows

In the ever-evolving world of television entertainment, it’s not uncommon to come across shows that leave a lasting impact on our lives. One such show that has recently graced our screens and captured the hearts of viewers around the world is “Pain Killers.” In this blog post, we’ll delve into the depths of this remarkable TV series and explore its profound impact on both the characters and the audience.

“Pain Killers” is not your typical TV show. It transcends the boundaries of entertainment, offering a unique blend of drama, empathy, and a profound exploration of the human condition. The show revolves around a group of individuals from diverse backgrounds who come together at a pain management clinic, each battling their own personal demons.

What sets “Pain Killers” apart is its sincere approach to storytelling. It doesn’t shy away from addressing the often-taboo subject of chronic pain and addiction. Instead, it embraces these issues head-on, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with chronic pain and the complexities of their journey towards healing.

The strength of any TV show lies in its character development, and “Pain Killers” excels in this department. Each character is meticulously crafted, with their own unique struggles and triumphs. As viewers, we become emotionally invested in their stories, rooting for their recovery and personal growth.

The show’s portrayal of addiction and recovery is both realistic and compassionate. It doesn’t resort to stereotypes but portrays its characters with depth and empathy. Viewers can relate to their struggles, which makes the show all the more impactful.

One of the standout features of “Pain Killers” is its ability to deliver a message of hope and resilience. It reminds us that healing is a journey filled with ups and downs, but it’s a journey worth undertaking. Through the characters’ experiences, we learn that pain and addiction are not insurmountable obstacles. With the right support, understanding, and determination, one can find their path towards recovery and reclaim their life.

Beyond its compelling storytelling and well-developed characters, “Pain Killers” also deserves praise for its professional execution. The production quality, cinematography, and acting are top-notch, immersing viewers into the world of the clinic and the lives of its characters.

In a world where television often caters to superficial entertainment, “Pain Killers” stands as a beacon of sincerity and substance. It offers a refreshing and authentic perspective on the human experience, especially the challenges of chronic pain and addiction. This TV show has the power to spark conversations, raise awareness, and inspire those who may be facing similar struggles.

As viewers, we are fortunate to have “Pain Killers” grace our screens, reminding us of the healing power of empathy, resilience, and the human spirit. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking thought-provoking and emotionally resonant storytelling. So, if you haven’t already, I strongly recommend tuning in to “Pain Killers” and embarking on a journey of empathy, understanding, and hope

Must-Do Steps for Getting Discovered: Tips for Creatives

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Breaking into the spotlight as a creative talent today is no small feat. Amidst a cacophony of emerging artists and established talents, how do you make your unique voice heard? This article shared by Chelsea at Business Pop, aims to guide you through the maze with seven actionable steps that can elevate your profile and get your work the attention it deserves.

Making Your Online Presence Unforgettable

Your website or portfolio is more than a digital resume—it’s a stage where you can showcase your talent. Keep it engaging and updated, representing your style and capabilities to any visitors who drop by. Social media channels extend this stage even further. Regular updates with high-quality content and strategic hashtag use are your tickets to a larger audience. Don’t forget to actively participate in online creative communities, as they are fertile ground for invaluable connections and collaborations.

Real-World Connections

Digital presence aside, nothing beats the power of face-to-face interactions. Events specific to your field—like fashion weeks, art galleries, and trade shows—offer a tactile platform to display your work. Elevator pitches and business cards are your tools for these venues, helping to capture the essence of your brand within a few seconds and leaving a lasting impression.

Your Talent Under Spotlight

Competitions aren’t just a chance to win prizes; they’re a chance to win attention. The right art competition can put your work in front of eyeballs that matter, offering both exposure and professional validation. Make sure you choose contests that resonate with your specific style or niche, as this is where you’re most likely to shine.

Unseen Benefits of Creative Collaborations

Co-creating with other artists or designers can lead to the kind of magic that neither could achieve alone. Beyond that, it’s an effective strategy for cross-promotion, letting each party tap into the other’s audience. Online platforms and forums offer perfect hunting grounds for finding like-minded collaborators, making the process easier than ever.

Local Stages, Big Impacts

Never underestimate the power of local venues. Whether it’s a neighborhood art fair, a pop-up shop or a community event, these spaces offer an immediate audience that’s often eager to discover new talent. Preparing a visually appealing display and having a direct engagement strategy can turn these local opportunities into significant milestones. Embrace the local scene and watch your creative journey thrive!

Never Stop Learning

In the ever-evolving landscape of creativity, standing still is akin to moving backward. Workshops and courses related to your field can provide new techniques, insights, and valuable network opportunities. Your next mentor or big break could very well come from the connections made in a classroom setting.

How to Make Print Work for You

In a world saturated with digital stimuli, the tactile experience of a well-crafted brochure can make a significant impact. Utilizing creative elements in your brochure design not only enhances its visual appeal but also provides a more immersive experience for the reader. These printed pieces offer a compact yet comprehensive look at your portfolio and can be created easily using free online templates. Don’t discount this age-old method of self-promotion; it has the power to leave a lasting impression.

Your Roadmap to Success

While creative talent is at the core of your success, a structured business plan provides the necessary framework to support your artistry. This roadmap should outline your objectives, strategies, financial plans, and timelines, serving as both a guide and a yardstick for your career. With a well-crafted business plan, you can navigate the path to success with confidence.


Getting your creative work noticed is a multifaceted endeavor that goes beyond raw talent. Through strategic online branding, focused networking, participating in competitions, creative collaborations, local showcases, continuous skill enhancement, and solid planning, you can considerably up your chances of breaking through. So, set the stage—digital or physical—and let your creativity shine. With the right moves, the world could be your stage.

All the Little Things (2021): Denzel’s Detective Magic and a Side of Twisted Humor

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Hey there movie buffs and Denzel Washington fans! If you’re like me, you can’t resist a good Denzel flick. And in 2021, he delivered once again with “All the Little Things,” a thriller that’s equal parts gripping and quirky. Trust me; this one’s got all the little things (pun intended) that make a movie worth watching.

The Plot:

So, what’s the scoop? Denzel plays Joe “Deke” Deacon, a retired detective with a mysterious past that haunts him. When he teams up with the talented and enigmatic Rami Malek (playing detective Jim Baxter), you know you’re in for a wild ride. These two guys couldn’t be more different, but that’s what makes their partnership so intriguing.

The story kicks off with a series of gruesome murders that bear a striking resemblance to a case Deke worked on years ago. And wouldn’t you know it, the prime suspect is none other than Jared Leto, who’s perfecting the art of playing creepy characters. His character, Albert Sparma, is equal parts chilling and oddly charming, a combination that keeps you guessing throughout the film.

Without giving too much away, let’s just say that “All the Little Things” takes you on a rollercoaster of suspense, twists, and turns. It’s like trying to solve a jigsaw puzzle while blindfolded – you think you’ve got it figured out, and then, surprise! Another piece doesn’t fit.

The Cast:

Denzel Washington, the man who can do no wrong in Hollywood, shines in his role as Deke. His grizzled detective persona is a sight to behold, and you can’t help but root for him, even when he’s facing demons from his past.

Rami Malek, fresh off his Oscar win, is excellent as the young detective trying to make a name for himself. His chemistry with Denzel is spot on, and their banter provides some much-needed comic relief amidst the tension.

And then there’s Jared Leto. Leto’s portrayal of Albert Sparma is downright eerie. You’ll find yourself simultaneously repulsed and captivated by his character’s unpredictability.

All the Little Things You’ll Love:

While “All the Little Things” is primarily a thriller, it’s sprinkled with moments of dark humor that catch you off guard. It’s like the filmmakers knew we needed a chuckle to relieve some of the tension.

The movie also explores themes of obsession, guilt, and redemption, making it more than just a run-of-the-mill crime drama. It’s a psychological thriller with a heart.

In the end, “All the Little Things” delivers a satisfying, if not slightly disturbing, conclusion that leaves you thinking about it long after the credits roll.

So, grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and prepare for a Denzel Washington masterpiece that’s as perplexing as it is entertaining. “All the Little Things” is a wild ride you won’t want to miss – just remember to lock your doors after watching. Jared Leto’s performance might give you the creeps for a while!

Designing the Ultimate At-Home Movie Experience: A Comprehensive Guide

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Here is a special guest post written by Chelsea Lamb at Business Pop!

The allure of a movie theater is undeniable, but with the right setup, you can create an equally enthralling movie-viewing experience at home. This article will guide you through the process, providing tips on everything from selecting the ideal TV to setting up versatile lighting for the perfect ambiance. Let’s dive in and convert your living room into a personal cinema.

Selecting the Ideal TV or Projector

When it comes to visual experience, choosing the right TV or projector is crucial. You’ll want to invest in a high-resolution device that supports HDR (high dynamic range) for the best color quality. The size of the TV should be proportional to your room size to ensure optimal viewing.

A projector, on the other hand, can provide a more cinema-like experience. It can project images onto a large screen, replicating the feel of a movie theater. However, you’ll need to consider the room’s lighting conditions as projectors work best in darker environments.

Investing in Top-Notch Surround Sound

Sound is just as important as visuals in creating the ultimate movie experience. A good surround sound system can make a world of difference. It brings the film to life by immersing you in the audio, making you feel like you’re part of the movie.

The placement of speakers is crucial to achieve the best sound quality. Ideally, speakers should be placed around the room to distribute the sound evenly. Consider investing in a 7.1 surround sound system for a truly immersive experience.

Ensuring Comfortable Seating

Comfort is key when setting up your home theater. Opt for plush seating that provides good back support and is comfortable enough for long movie sessions. Stadium seating can add an authentic touch, and building a tiered seating structure is relatively simple with a framework of joists.

Also, remember to arrange your seats in such a way that everyone has a clear view of the screen. You don’t want anyone craning their necks or squinting their eyes to catch the action.

Setting Up Versatile Lighting

Lighting sets the mood for your movie-viewing experience. For the best ambiance, install lights that can be dimmed or turned off completely during the movie. You can also consider adding accent lights that can be controlled separately to create different moods. Remember, if you’re using a projector, the room needs to be dark for the best picture quality. So, make sure your lighting setup allows for this.

Finding Film Suggestions and Critiques

Finding the right movie to watch can sometimes be a challenge. Reel Review can be a great resource for movie suggestions and critiques. You’ll find in-depth reviews and recommendations to help you choose the perfect movie for your at-home movie night.

Strategically Positioning Furniture for Optimal Viewing

The placement of furniture plays a significant role in the viewing experience. Arrange your seating in such a way that it faces the screen directly. Also, ensure there’s enough space between the seating and the screen for comfortable viewing.

If necessary, rearrange other furniture pieces to prevent them from obstructing the view. Remember, the goal is to create a dedicated space where everyone can enjoy the movie without distractions.

Enhancing Home Value with an Outdoor Movie Area

An outdoor movie area can be a unique addition to your home, potentially enhancing its value. It provides a refreshing change of scenery and can be a hit during summer nights. All you need is a portable projector and a white sheet or an inflatable screen. Be sure to keep track of any work you have done and save receipts to quantify your home’s value increase.

Preparing Some Delicious Snacks

Lastly, no movie night is complete without some delicious snacks. Try experimenting with different recipes. This can make the experience more fun and interactive, and who knows, you might discover a new favorite snack!

Designing the ultimate at-home movie experience involves careful planning and attention to detail. But with the right equipment and setup, you can create a cozy, immersive cinema right in your living room, and you may even boost your home’s value with an outdoor movie space.

Positive Transformation: Turning Your Passion Into a Business

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Happy 2022 family!

Are you getting started on those New Year resolutions? After thoughtful reflection, I wanted to share this lovely guest post by Chelsea Lamb to help you truly pursuing your passions this year.

In 2017, a Gallup poll found that over 85% of Americans were unhappy with their job. It’s not uncommon, then, for the average American to give up something they love so they can attain a better living for themselves and their families. But in the year 2021, all that may change as a shift in business practices gives us more spare time, greater flexibility and therefore new opportunities to pursue a fulfilling line of work. If you’re willing to put in the extra hours and change up your routine, then it might be possible to pay the bills doing what you love with these tips:

Time Management

If you’re serious about pursuing a passion professionally, your first step should be a change to your time management habits. With the advent of remote working, many of us have recouped time that would ordinarily be spent commuting. To make good use of these extra hours, you’ll want to hold yourself accountable with a useful app. Most of the available time management software are desktop and phone compatible, meaning you can calculate your efficiency, schedule shifts, and cut down on procrastination even when you’re on the move.

Pursuing a dream whilst working a steady job can be tough but plenty have done it before –  award-winning director James Cameron used to work as a truck driver, writing his scripts during pit stops and Beyoncé once worked on a salon floor singing to customers. Multi-tasking is a learned skill and whether you’re an aspiring artist, film director, or musician, learning to work whilst you work is necessary if you want to pursue your passion and keep on top of the rent.

Upskilling

If you’re transitioning to a new career path, it’s normally a good idea to start with a qualification. Fortunately, with the availability of educational content and online courses, acquiring one is more straightforward than ever. Online learning platforms like Udemy or EdEx provide a fully virtual experience so that, regardless of where in the country you’re based, you can access their resources and learn new, practical skills or pick up niché credentials to help you apply for new roles.

Alternatively, you might be interested in taking up a full degree course. Believe it or not, these can also be accessed and earned virtually, from a remote location. Some students are currently studying for a Bachelor’s in addition to working a full-time job (although this is an incredibly time-intensive lifestyle). Remember to take extra care when signing up for long-term online courses as the lack of physical accountability has given rise to some scam imitators.

Founding a Business

If you’re confident in your idea, your ability, and your knowledge of a chosen field then you might consider starting a business of your own. This is by no means a small undertaking and, on average, the costs for establishing a company are around the $30,000 mark. You’ll also likely be sacrificing time spent working with a stable income and some of the key benefits that come as a full-time employee. Make sure you’ve asked yourself the important questions before embarking. Are you willing to work harder than currently? Do you have the personal funds to risk? And, crucially, how will a drastic change in profession affect your closest relationships?

If you’re interested in forming a business, it’s a good idea to start thinking about the form it will take. For example, a limited liability company (LLC) will reduce your personal liability, grant tax advantages, while helping you to establish early credibility. Although it’s possible to do this on your own, a service like ZenBusiness can help you save on lawyer fees and make formation easier by helping you to navigate any state regulations.

The good thing about a passion is it will usually speak for itself. Our strongest ambitions are often accompanied by a little voice that’s impossible to ignore. All you need is the willingness to listen and the work ethic to turn a dream into reality.

Until next time,

Lauryn

3 Ways to Fight Symptoms of Burnout

Blog, Lifestyle
Image via Unsplash

Guest post by Chelsea Lamb at Business Pop

Audio version here: https://anchor.fm/reel-review-by-lauryn

Stress and anxiety are at an all-time high, with the pandemic exacerbating unprecedented widespread mental health issues. Add the everyday stress of trying to run and grow a successful business, and it’s no wonder you’re feeling overwhelmed. Fight the symptoms of burnout using these tips:

Combat Dread First Thing

Many people suffering from burnout wake up with a feeling of dread on workdays but begin their day by picking up their phones and checking their email. While this may feel like a productive thing to do, you’re missing an opportunity to get your day started off on a positive and mentally healthy foot.

Instead of picking up your phone and immediately giving your life over to the demands of others, take some time first thing in the morning to connect with yourself and charge your battery for the day. Take ten minutes to practice mindful meditation or go for an early morning walk. Pay special attention to your body as it gets used to being awake for the day, feeling grateful for everything that it does for you. Spend time thinking of the positive things in your life, even in these stressful times, that you are grateful for.

Fight Exhaustion by Optimizing Breaks

It’s tempting to spend workday breaks scrolling on your phone, but much of work duty is frequently spent looking at screens. When you’re tired at work, spend your breaks doing activities that help rejuvenate you and give your brain a break.

Instead, consider engaging your body. Lack of movement throughout the workday is hazardous to your health, but even small movements and exercises can help reduce the harm done to your mind and body by the ceaseless sitting that work can entail. Consider a regular walking lunch, and devote 30 minutes every day to moving. If you want more, try running instead. Whatever you choose, invest in a fitness tracker or smartwatch with a swanky band to enhance motivation and help you track your progress. 

Dehydration can also contribute to exhaustion, so drink water during your breaks to give you more energy and boost your mood. Vitamin deficiencies can cause you to feel tired, as well, so pack a nutrient-rich snack to enjoy during your breaks and take a vitamin if necessary.

Stop Feeling Overwhelmed by Sharing the Load

When you’re an entrepreneur, your business can feel like your baby, and it can be difficult to feel comfortable letting other people manage important aspects of its functioning. Spreading yourself too thin, though, is a recipe for disaster. The damage from you burning out will be much more significant than the small pains that might accompany letting someone else share the load.

Look at everything in your business that is essential to its functioning. This might include product production, services performed, money management, social media management, and other things vital to your business’s success. Decide which of these you are best suited to handling and which can be designated to someone else.

Payroll and taxes are two areas where mistakes can result in costly fines and the degradation of employee trust and satisfaction. Use a payroll service to take the worry of getting employee paychecks (you can set up a schedule, for example) and court-mandated payouts such as alimony and child support correct off your shoulders. If you’re on the fence, ask what is payroll help worth to you and your business? Do you really have the time to handle weekly payroll and keep track of all of your finances? If the answer is no, then it’s time to employ a service that can manage payroll as well as handle your taxes so that you don’t have to keep up with changing tax laws. Services such as these may seem extravagant but save you money in the long run.

Be proactive with handling the symptoms of burnout so that you can continue leading your business with confidence. Start your day off right and build from that foundation with meaningful breaks and by delegating tasks. You and your business will both be better off for it.

Two New Audiobooks

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Hello Family and Happy Friday.

This weekend take some time to listen to our two new audiobooks on audible for free 🙂

Please enjoy one free audio review copy of Affirmations for Black Women & Girls for Beauty, Self Love, Career and Love, now available on Audible. Redeem the one-time use code below at https://www.audible.com/acx-promo

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Please enjoy one free audio review copy of Affirmationen für Frauen & Mädchen: Selbstliebe, Schönheit, Karriere und Liebe (German Edition), now available on Audible. Redeem the one-time use code below at https://www.audible.com/acx-promo

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We would appreciate a review or comment so I can produce great audiobook content for you all! 🙂

Until next time,

Lauryn

New Branch of Reel Review

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Hello Reel Review Family!

It’s been a hot minute since I have posted a movie review.

Am I still watching television? Yes.

Am I still loving film and T.V.? Yes.

However, I have also discovered a new passion. . . . .

Books and Audiobooks!!

Currently, I am reading The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma. In this book, Robin Sharma deems the hours of 5:00am to 6:00am as “The Victory Hour” where you should exercise, learn and reflect.

I’ve been implementing this “Victory Hour” in my life for some time now and I can say it has drastically changed the way I look at my day.

Okay, I’ve only done it for a week. And, I wake up at 6:00am instead of 5:00am but you get it, it’s helpful.

During my time in the morning to learn, I have been using the time to listen to audiobooks in different languages. I noticed how carving out some time in the morning has allowed me to live a more fulfilling life.

I loved this morning routine so much and it has given me time to develop a new line of business I wanted to share with you.

In addition to blog posts, Reel Review Publishing will be creating books and audiobooks on Audible!

Click below to check out our newest French audiobook we recently published!

To listen for free, here are some promo codes you can apply to your audible account! If you would like more, feel free to comment or email us 🙂

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Until next time,

🙂

Build Your Business From the Ground Up, Post-Pandemic

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Given the rise of “COVID-preneurs” (individuals who’ve decided to launch startups during the pandemic), here is a special guest post written by Chelsea Lamb at Business Pop!

The pandemic was a crisis that nobody ever thought would come to be. This crisis has also revealed a need for people to have a secondary means of income. Not only were numerous entrepreneurs confined to their homes, but a recession was bound to occur with the pandemic. Setting up a venture might be one of the best things you can do during this crisis, but it’s important to know how to get your business off the ground as we enter this promising post-pandemic phase.

Ensure You Have Financial Backup

Allocate a part of your savings toward necessities and emergency needs, but make sure to also set aside money to fund your business. Analyze the risk of incurring an overall loss and decide how much funding you need to allocate to your business to start — this way, your savings are still available for you to create an enterprise. You can also look into other funding options, such as business loans, angel investors, and so on. 

Research Your Product and Audience

Consider the possibility of creating and distributing your product or service — this means getting to know your offering’s sourcing and ecological imprint. For instance, if you make homemade goods, you need to know how long it takes to create each item. Also, if you source your product from a manufacturer, you need to know the complete process and reversal time from product design to distribution. Production time is an incredibly valuable investment for a business owner, so leave sufficient time to accomplish an adequate amount of customer orders while also making sure you don’t exhaust yourself with work. Besides analyzing what you offer, you should also find your audience to know whom you need to market to.

Draw the Marketing Aspect

Even before starting up, you need to develop a business plan encompassing the marketing strategies that best promote your product or service. Because we’re still fighting a global crisis, many businesses are on edge, with more than 40 percent of small businesses currently uneasy with their cash flow. However, as we approach the end of the pandemic, there are a few things you can do to improve your current and future sales.

Creating a business website will help you get noticed, look professional, and appeal to your audience as a serious venture. A website will also help sell your products and let people know your mission and philosophy, which will attract more customers. 

To show professionalism all the way through, consider hiring a graphic designer who will ensure that your website’s visual assets are attractive and fit for a successful marketing campaign. You can find countless freelance designers on online job platforms, so make sure to read reviews and compare delivery times and rates. Usually, freelance graphic design pricing sits somewhere between $15 and $35 per hour, but the costs may be higher if the professional has more experience and knowledge.

Improve Your Strategies

By enhancing the user experience on your website, you’ll get to build a successful company. Optimize your pages for use with mobile devices and desktop computers as people visit your website using both these means. Also, consider placing a live chatbox on your site for easily accessible customer support. Using SEO will make your business website more appealing to search engines like Google and enhance the number of clicks you receive.

If you’re only selling your products on your site, consider selling them on other platforms, too, such as Amazon. The website is well-recognized by consumers, and many people worldwide are shopping from there — it would be incredibly advantageous to have your products listed on its pages. Another strategy you can use and later improve is the automation of the sales system — this will allow you and your staff to focus on more important aspects, including content creation and advertising projects.

The Bottom Line

A crisis may seem like a challenging and risky time to run a business, but it is actually a good time to start. By using these techniques, you can get started on the right foot and increase the chances of your venture not only succeeding now but also into the future.

If you need help with cover letters, resumes, and other similar pieces of content or translation into and from Spanish and French, connect with Lauryn today.

A Lesson on Love from Malcolm and Marie

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Malcolm and Marie is a new film on Netflix starring Zendaya (Marie) and John David Washington (Malcolm) written and directed by Sam Levinson. I applaud the film’s creativity– a two character film shot in a 35mm black and white frame. It is gorgeous and captivating to see. However, the depth of the dialogue falls short resting heavily on a criticism of Hollywood, the film industry and of course, film critics.

I found myself falling for the characters but not really sure who to root for. From the beginning, we are thrust into an uncomfortable tension between a young Hollywood couple.

Marie, a former actress and recovering drug addict, is frustrated yet indifferent when Malcolm forgets to thank her in his speech at his movie premiere. Marie and Malcolm then proceed to use the historical precedent of their relationship to evidence the love, indifference, support and chaos they’ve both endured. The characters fight with veracity using cruel and uncomfortable language. This ultimately augments the dangerous consequences of disrespect and manipulation in personal relationships.

Relationships are a juicy topic so let’s dive in. What has COVID-19 taught us about relationships? A variety of sources reveal the pandemic has presented a “perfect storm” when it comes to relationships. Some are focusing on building a family and improving their mental health. While others have moved-in together after a couple of months of dating. Some couples got engaged, while others filed for separation or divorce. At first glance, this doesn’t seem particularly special. You can say this all happened before the pandemic. You’re right. But within the past year, there has been a dramatic increase in “corona-cuffing,” “accelerated relationships” and shocking separations within a short amount of time.

During times of confinement, it is imperative to put communication on the forefront of our relationships. Throughout the film, Marie struggles to reveal what she really wanted. She wanted to be casted in Malcolm’s film, but the film implies she failed to make the effort. She wanted her efforts to be recognized but perhaps this personal value was not communicated earlier in the relationship. Malcolm merely wants to celebrate his big moment. After receiving constant praise at the premiere, he feels the fruits of his labor are finally paying off. He wants to take this moment to celebrate with the girl he loves. But, he is unable to see how his actions have forced Marie into a mental state of indifference and resentment.

When we take on anything in life, we need support. And for Marie and Malcom, the film projects a downward spiral of miscommunication, ignorance and blinding emotion. People often project our preferred method of support onto others and ignore the fact that different methods of support are needed in different stages of our lives. I am not a relationship expert by any means. However, this movie piqued my curiosity and invited me to explore how our life stages influenced the support we need.

What I found is that there are very distinct methods of support for different stages of our lives. Some scientists found men and women go through different life stages of development. [1] For Malcolm, it appears he is in the “building” stage of this life where he is determined to make a name for himself. His whole self is pouring his energy into his craft and that amount of energy doesn’t leave much for more. It is not that he’s lazy or indifferent as Marie sees it. He is just developing his professional sense of self. While Marie, recovering for her past, is looking for the appreciation she never received before. She is possibly looking for words of affirmation from Malcolm. [2]

Overall, I am upset with this film because it disrupts and taints our views of relationships. I believe if we looked at relationships with a curious rather than confrontational eye, we will find more love, understanding and reasons for our behaviors. Or maybe I should exhibit a fierce passion to question and challenge others. What do you think?

As I end this post, I wanted to leave with you a quote from a book I am currently reading,

“. . .we often mistake love for fireworks – for drama and dysfunction. But real love is very quiet, very still. It’s boring, if seen from the perspective of high drama. Love is deep and calm – and constant.”

Alex Michaelides, The Silent Patient

Until next time,

Lauryn

Sources

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2990527/

[2] https://www.5lovelanguages.com