If you’re obsessed with the Gabby Petito Case, you need to be watching Netflix’s new show, ‘Clickbait’
“If you, like me, have been following Gabby’s disappearance, checking regularly for updates, and wondering what more you can do to help while simultaneously feeling a little guilty over the fact that this matter involves real people, I have a new way to occupy your time. Undoubtedly, the show will provide you an entirely new perspective on a case like this: How the public’s attention can be both a blessing and a curse, how easily something so innocent and trivial can get so destructively out of hand, and how at the end of the day, the lives of those involved will unfortunately never be the same.”
By Meghan Connors
In an incredibly uncanny coincidence of timing, Netflix released their new show, ‘Clickbait,’ as the Gabby Pettito case began to take hold of the American Public’s attention.
There are those who support the inherent voyeurism a case like this attracts, and others who believe sensitive matters such as this are better left to the police. But if you, like me, have been following Gabby’s disappearance, checking regularly for updates, and wondering what more you can do to help while simultaneously feeling a little guilty over the fact that this matter involves real people, I have a new way to occupy your time. Undoubtedly, the show will provide you an entirely new perspective on a case like this: How the public’s attention can be both a blessing and a curse, how easily something so innocent and trivial can get so destructively out of hand, and how at the end of the day, the lives of those involved will unfortunately never be the same.
Netflix’s new show, ‘Clickbait,’ follows a crime as it unfolds on social media, and what comes after as the public bonds together to learn about the people involved, and attempts to solve the case. The show depicts how easily the public can be swayed to slam down their proverbial hammer of judgment, and decide someone's innocence, guilt, and sentencing before the defense has an opportunity to make their case. Regardless of how you feel about Gabby Petitos disappearance, and now murder, ‘Clickbait’ serves as an undeniable reminder that as the general public, we don’t actually know anything about anyone involved. And sure, we can form convincing arguments through social media deep dives, and a plethora of other discerning endeavors, but we are gullible to believe that the internet can paint an entirely truthful image of anyone.
So, for those of us who are falling into the traps of conspiracy theories, and unhelpful rumors, let’s begin to focus some of our attention on people who are fictional, and let Gabby’s family grieve without adding any unhelpfulness to their tragedy. ‘Clickbait’ is strong enough in it’s writing, acting, and execution, to serve as a plausible distraction. As someone who finds it hard to watch crime television, (because I can usually spot the criminal in the first five minutes) this show had me utterly clueless till the very end. Even when all was revealed, I found myself questioning if another twist would come.
I believe watching this show can serve as a middle ground for those of us who want to respect the Petito family, but cannot contain our innate curiosity. While watching the show I found myself regaining an important perspective on how this phenomenon is affecting those who actually knew and loved Gabby.
And yes, we can still learn of Brian Laundrie’s face in case we happen to spot him in our neighborhood, but viewing this show instead will allow law enforcement, and other investigative forces, an opportunity to sift through all credible tips. Because, at the end of the day, this story isn’t scripted, and the Petito family will not be able to switch the show and forget about everything once it’s “over.” So, I guess what I’m saying is, if you have helpful information, of course, follow this case, offer your statement, and cross your fingers that it helps. But if you’re simply adding to the hysteria through your presumably “harmless” theories, just watch the show instead. Hopefully, by the time you’re done binging, Laundrie will have been found, and justice will be served. Until then, there’s nothing more most of us can do.
The INSTAGRAM ShutDown - My Takeaways
While the glitch may seem like an inconvenient blip in the grand scheme of our daily lives, this blackout day, for me at least, put a few very important things into perspective.
By Meghan Connors
Unless you have no social media, odds are you were affected by the Facebook Shutdown that took place today on Monday, October 4th. With this shutdown, Facebook, Instagram, and What’s App became unusable leaving over 3 billion users without access to their accounts or the accounts of others. And while the glitch may seem like an inconvenient blip in the grand scheme of our daily lives, this blackout day, for me at least, put a few very important things into perspective.
How Many Hours a Day I Find Myself Reliant on Social Media for Entertainment.
While Tik Tok filled the boredom void for most of the day, it was moments where I couldn’t watch videos (due to an inability to use my volume and hindrances) that showed me how often I switch over to Instagram looking to scroll mindlessly. I found myself having to actively refrain from constantly switching over as muscle memory kicked in to do frequent check-ins.
The Accounts/Platforms I spent Years Building on Instagram Could be Gone in a Second and There’s Nothing I Can Do About it.
I have multiple Instagram accounts. A personal account, a food account, an account for this site, and others. To all of which I have devoted countless hours to building, posting, and engaging. It wasn’t until today that I realized if the day came where Instagram just “went away,” there would be nothing I could do. All of the relationships I’ve made through the app, the stories I’ve told in my posts, and everything else I don’t immediately recognize as valuable would be gone with no opportunity for retrieval. The thought alone puts a pain in my chest. And I am only a small creator. I cannot imagine the anxiety that invaded the minds of creators who have staked their livelihood on Facebook’s social media platforms.
Also?! SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS. How are they doing after today? This affected their whole job! If Facebook and its subsidiaries went away for good, what would happen to every social media employee in the world? Would they be fired on account of the platform with which they do their jobs no longer exists?! Would they create new platforms or switch over entirely to the ones that were still running?! I NEED ANSWERS.
This Shutdown Brought Up A Lot of Bad News About Facebook - Things I Should Probably Care About.
Clearly, Facebook is hiding something; actually, more like somethingS. So, does this mean I should stop using their apps and steer clear of the company all together? But, as I’ve already stated, I'm addicted. And I can’t abandon my platforms. So what do I do?
What do we all do?
The best and the worst of 2021 Met Gala fashion - From someone who has no expertise what-so-ever
“Musicians, celebrities, and socialites alike stepped out to represent their interpretation of “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.” There were references to fashion moments in American history, obvious interpretations of “what America means” in fashion, and others who presumably chose to forgo the theme entirely.
By Meghan Connors
Monday, September 13, only one day after the wild and exciting MTV VMAs, musicians, celebrities, and socialites alike stepped out to represent their interpretation of “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.” There were references to fashion moments in American history, obvious interpretations of “what America means” in fashion, and others who presumably chose to forgo the theme entirely.
Images: Getty
BILLIE EILISH
Bilie Eilish effortlessly referenced the Marylin Monroe in a custom Oscar De La Renta gown. Sources say she agreed only to wear the dress as long as De La Renta agreed to stop using fur in their future designs. The gown specifically referenced one Monroe wore to the 1951 Oscars.
After the frock Billie wore to Sunday’s VMAs, I am so excited to see this from her. It is elegant, gorgeous, and I believe still captures Eilish’s modest persona, while complementing her figure in a tasteful way. I hope to see more looks like this from her in the future.
Images: Getty
Emma chamberlain
I think it is only necessary that all social media influencers who have ever expected to be taken seriously in the industry owe Emma Chamberlain a big fat thank you. From the hair to the makeup to the stunningly glitzy little number, the Youtuber has set a high standard for her fellow social stars. Wearing Louis Vuitton, as expected, I don’t know if she is referencing anything but I literally don’t care because she looks gorgeous, professional, and amazing.
Actually, maybe she’s going for like a late 60s early 70s vibe? Either way she’s killing it.
Images: Getty
Kendall Jenner
Kendall looks absolutely incredible, but come on, did we expect anything less? I’m really into the whole diamonds and sheer mesh look. And the corset may be my favorite part. A perfect little touch. I’m seeing Gatsby-era without the obvious flapper reference and I'm loving it.
Images: Getty
Lil Nas X
Yes, obviously Lil Was X killed it, but he always does. Does it go with the theme? No. Do I care in the slightest? Absolutely not. I hope he becomes a Met Gala regular because I just know he’ll never disappoint.
He’s wearing Versace whom I know he’s worked with before (If you can recall: The hot pink cowboy suit from the 2020 Grammy’s) so let’s hope they stay working together!
Images: Getty
Gigi Hadid
Quick, someone tell me what she’s supposed to be because I don’t get it, and frankly, I kind of hate it. I don’t love the hair, the tights are a no, and even the shoes I can’t bring myself to like. Once again, I have no expertise so this is based entirely in opinion, but she’s just not doing it for me.
Images: Getty
J Lo
I don’t love it, but it’s a clear interpretation of the theme which I appreciate, and also comes across as somewhat of a risk which earns her extra brownie points. I can’t tell though if she’s supposed to be Wild West, or Native American inspired. Probably Wild West. I think the fur is throwing me off.
Image: Getty
Olivia Rodrigo
It truly pains me to say this but I’m just not into it. Olivia’s style is young and playful with an edgy grunge twist. This might work for someone else (maybe Kendall, or Gigi), but not for her. Too sophisticated. I don’t feel like I need to say anything else on the matter.
Images: Getty
Timothee Chalamet
Timothee really said, “and for my interpretation of the theme, I’ll be portraying ‘work from home’ realness.” Business on top, comfort on the bottom, it doesn’t get more American than that. Whether intentional or not, this for me is the night’s “most on theme.”
Images: Getty
Shawn Mendes and Camila cabello
While I like both of their outfits separately, I don’t think they work well as a pair. He’s giving 70s rocker, and she’s giving Cher. Great on their own, but together, a little disorienting. Also would it have killed Michael Kors to design a more flattering top for her?
All in all, I was impressed, but not blown away. I think Billie did it best in terms of dazzling while staying on theme. But at the same time I’m writing this in my pajamas, completely unqualified to judge. Hopefully next year the theme will be more inspiring.
10 music filled Flicks for your next movie night
“There are musicals, and there are movies, and then there are music filled movies where the characters may not be singing the songs as a means to tell their story, but the songs that play carry you through the story just as well. I was raised on movies that revolved around music - here are some not-so-obvious flicks I recommend for your next music filled movie night.”
There are musicals, and there are movies, and then there are music filled movies where the characters may not be singing the songs as a means to tell their story, but the songs that play carry you through the story just as well. I was raised on movies that revolved around music - here are some not-so-obvious flicks I recommend for your next music filled movie night.
Almost Famous
Ask any music writer about the movie that made them want to do what they wanted to do, and their answer (if they’re being honest) will have something to do with their first time watching Almost Famous. Fun Fact: Elton John credits this movie for the success that his song “Tiny Dancer” has since obtained. Though the films director, Cameron Crowe labeled John’s comment, “incredibly generous”
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Paramount +
bandSlam
Bandslam is one of the most grossly underrated movies of the early 2000s and also happens to be one of my favorites of all time. The movie follows a lonely kid who lives and breathes music, and also happens to regularly write to David Bowie like he’s an old friend. With a star studded cast (Vanessa Hudgens, Aly Michalka, Lisa Kudrow, and even David Bowie) and a story that will tug at your heartstrings while guiding your vocal chords, this movie deserved better.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Youtube (free)
The Trailer Stinks: Watch this Clip Instead
School of Rock
Filled with hilarious one liners, and an unforgettable eclectic bunch of spunky kids, School of Rock tells the great comeback story of Dewey Finn, and proves that a great exists only where there is a ton of heart, and a little mischief. Plus, who doesn’t like to “stick it to the man.”
Available on: Netflix, Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video
Sing Street
If you’re a fan of The Commitments you’ll be a fan of Sing Street. 1980s Dublin, Ireland meets Rock and Roll. A boy starts a band to woo a girl - what more could you need?
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Pluto TV, Vudu, Tubi (All Free)
The Sapphires
The talent in this movie alone makes it one to watch. Four Black Australian girls in the 60s go to Vietnam to perform for the troops. Along the way their manger teaches them to sing and about soul music. The rest is history (literally, its a true story).
Available on: Pluto TV, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi (All Free)
August Rush
A musical prodigy, the product of two wildly different musicians whom he’s been separated from, finds his way back to his family through the power of his music.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu (For Rent/Purchase)
Yesterday
This movie is very long - but incredibly worth it in the end. Filled with Beatles music in a way that welcomes even those who only know the chorus to a song or two. One of those movies that forces you to reconsider the cosmic nature of every good and bad thing you’ve ever experienced.
Available on: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu (For Rent/Purchase)
Baby Driver
This movie is a cinematic masterpiece. Filled with action, suspense, and a whole lot of great music. Plus, it’s unexpectedly funny.
Available on: Youtube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV (For Rent/Purchase)
Country Strong
Gwenyth Paltrow and Time McGraw. Need I say more? This movie is A Star is Born if the movie was built entirely around country music. Also, if you’ve ever seen an episode of Nashville, you need to watch this movie.
Available on: Hulu, Starz, Youtube, Apple TV
That Thing You Do
Follow a band as their one-hit-wonder rises and falls, taking them through all that comes with being in the spotlight. You’ll find yourself humming their songs for the next week or so. Also, Tom Hanks.
Available on: Youtube (Free), Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Prime Video (For Rent/Purchase)
Honorable Mentions:
Freaky Friday: Chad Micheal Murray singing Hit Me Baby One More Time by Britney Spears simply can’t be beat.