In brief
This article delves into the journey of examining personal tastes and the potential joys of venturing beyond them, using two contrasting films as a call to embrace new experiences.
It's the weekend of “Glicked,” a trending cinematic event inviting fans to enjoy two highly anticipated films premiering yesterday: “Wicked,” Jon M. Chu's adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical featuring stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, and “Gladiator II,” Ridley Scott's return to the Colosseum 24 years after his original blockbuster. Although this pairing lacks the playful complexity of last year's pop culture phenomenon “Barbenheimer,” the films are strikingly different, offering a rich, albeit disjointed, cinematic experience for die-hard fans.Initially, I dismissed the idea of watching both movies back-to-back, reasoning that they weren’t tailored to my taste. My preference skews toward smaller, independent films, while both musicals and action flicks typically don’t resonate with me. However, as someone who appreciates a wide array of genres, I knew I would end up seeing both films eventually, albeit as an observer—a curious bystander rather than the target audience entangled in the songs and narratives.The exploration of what constitutes "for you" versus "not for you" plays a crucial role in honing one’s taste, helping individuals navigate their preferences to ensure satisfying experiences. This discernment fosters confidence—this film appeals to me, this music resonates with my soul, and this cuisine tantalizes my palate. Such clarity is the reward of a life thoughtfully lived, marking a strong sense of identity.After watching “Wicked,” I realized it wasn’t tailored to my specific taste, but I also recognized its significance to many others. It will undoubtedly captivate audiences, sparking conversations and debates, making it an essential part of cultural discourse. My experience, while peripheral, granted me entry into a collective narrative shared by numerous fans.The following day, a discussion with my colleague Louis, a die-hard “Wicked” enthusiast who had attended several live performances, illuminated the film's cultural tapestry further. After sharing my insights, he described his newfound affinity for baseball, having attended multiple games. This transformation, from an indifferent spectator to an engaged fan, illustrates how stepping outside established preferences can cultivate new communities and connections.In essence, venturing beyond what we perceive as “for us” might reveal unexpected pleasures and relationships, leading to a richer, more interconnected experience in the world of art and culture.
