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Emilia Pérez is a compelling, fast-paced drama now streaming on Netflix that explores themes of identity, transformation, and redemption. Written and directed by Jacques Audiard, the film follows Rita Mora Castro (Zoe Saldaña), an ambitious but underappreciated lawyer who becomes entangled in a high-profile case that changes the course of her life. Rita is approached by Juan “Manitas” Del Monte, a powerful cartel leader seeking to undergo gender-affirming surgery and start a new life as “Emilia Pérez” (Karla Sofía Gascón). As Emilia emerges with a new identity, she seeks to reconnect with her family and atone for the mistakes of her past. The drama explores her internal struggle and the complex relationships she navigates, especially with Jessi (Selena Gomez), a key figure from her former life.

Emilia Pérez is a layered, emotionally charged narrative set in Mexico that delves into the intersection of personal transformation and moral conflict. It is also notable for its music, with songs performed in Spanish, which enhance the fantastical and melodramatic elements brought to life by Audiard’s cinematic imagination. With powerful performances from its lead cast and a gripping storyline, Pérez offers a unique take on identity and second chances as viewers follow Emilia’s journey to reconcile her past with her future. With themes of self-discovery and the pursuit of redemption, Emilia Pérez is a must-watch for anyone drawn to character-driven dramas that push boundaries.

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Writer Jordan Weiss (Dollface) makes her directorial debut with an adorable romantic comedy, Sweethearts (now streaming on Max). Tackling the titular roles are the always quirky and charming Kiernan Shipka (Twisters) and Nico Hiraga (For Worse) as Jamie and Ben, two best friends who decided to go to the same college. As they overindulge themselves in the full freshman experience, dancing and drinking themselves into oblivion at party after party, they realize they both have one thing holding them back from all the flirting and fun that comes after — their significant others. Back home, Jamie and Ben are still dating their high school sweethearts Simon and Claire, whom they both agree they’ve outgrown. So, they devise a plan with the help of old friends to break up with them over the Thanksgiving holiday. But the more Jamie and Ben commiserate about wanting to start something new with someone else, the more the sparks fly between these besties. The film becomes an endearing exploration of a platonic relationship that turns romantic as Kiernan Shipka and Nico Hiraga show off their undeniable chemistry. With hilarious performances by fellow cast mates Charlie Hall (Monsters), Ava DeMary (Fresh Kills), Caleb Hearon (Killing It), Miles Gutierrez-Riley (Agatha All Along), Jake Bongiovi (Rockbottom), Tramell Tillman (Barron’s Cove), Chloe Troast (Goodrich), and Christine Taylor (High Desert), Sweethearts is a celebration of young love.

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Dear Santa shines a new light on the 100-year-old ‘Operation Santa’ Program where each year, hundreds of thousands of letters to Santa arrive at Post Offices around the country. Move over Hallmark Channel, there is a new content platform in the original Christmas movie game, Paramount+. The Farrelly Brothers and Paramount+ deliver our first Christmas Gift of the season. Dear Santa, the story of a young boy named Liam who mails his Christmas wish list to Santa.

The holly jolly film follows young Liam Turner (Robert Timothy Smith), who still believes in Santa. To prove to his disbelieving friends that Santa is real, he writes a letter to the big guy inviting him to show himself. The only problem, and chances are most children have done it at least once in their lives, Liam isn’t a very strong speller and addresses the letter to Satan (Jack Black) instead. Satan, who never gets letters from kids, is flattered and goes to meet Liam. Hijinks, chaos, and hilarity ensue. This one crucial spelling error, results in a devilish Jack Black’s (Satan/Asmodeus) arrival to wreak havoc on the holidays. 

Additional cast members of the deviously charming Christmas film, include Keegan-Michael Key, Brianne Howey, Hayes MacArthur, global music superstar Post Malone, P.J. Byrne, Jaden Carson Baker and Kai Cech. Streaming now on Paramount+.

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If you’re looking for a fun and affordable activity to get you in the holiday spirit, look no further than Pershing Square Ice Skating!

This iconic Los Angeles holiday staple is an exciting way to celebrate the start of winter and the impending season. Located in the heart of Downtown LA, the beautiful rink is surrounded by the towering skyline and nestled within the center of art and culture. The rink is open every day now through January 12, 2025. You can buy tickets in 1-hour sessions, but individual opening hours vary by day, so make sure to check the website before showing up!

There are individual events hosted throughout the season that will be fun for the whole family. “Wicked Wednesdays” offer skate sessions soundtracked by music from the Broadway hit turned movie phenomenon, which is currently touring at the Pantages. Sunday afternoons bring classical music selections piped through the sound systems. Every week has a DJ Spotlight Night on Thursday evening, where different DJs will showcase their repertoire. On three different days throughout the season (December 21, December 28, and January 4), avid skaters can learn the basics of the Canadian sport of curling with the Hollywood Curling Club.

Whether you’re a skating novice or an experienced ice dancer, there’s fun to be had at Pershing Square!

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