Tim Burton’s ‘Mars Attacks!’ is a comedic gem often overlooked in the director’s filmography. It’s a satirical take on alien invasion films that’s packed with great performances, incredible practical effects, and Burton’s signature brand of dark humor. If you love the absurdity of ‘Beetlejuice’ and its sequel, you’ll find much to enjoy in this wild ride.
Dorothy Parker humorously recounts her disastrous experience with a beauty specialist, Mme. Claudine, in this classic essay. From strenuous exercises to an arsenal of creams and lotions, Parker’s satirical voice shines through as she exposes the absurdity and exhaustion of the pursuit of beauty.
From darkly comedic thrillers to international award-winners, these five films use sharp wit and clever satire to expose the growing divide between the wealthy and the rest of society. These films go beyond entertainment, sparking conversations about privilege, power structures, and the cathartic dismantling of inequalities.
Shaadi.com founder Anupam Mittal launched a satirical tool called ‘DowrAI’, prompting discussions on the societal issue of dowry. The calculator estimates a person’s monetary worth in the marriage market, but its true purpose is to highlight the absurdity and harm of dowry practices. Netizens initially criticized Mittal for promoting dowry but later praised his initiative for raising awareness about the issue.
Paige Thorne, a former contestant on Love Island, has faced criticism for her comments on social media where she encouraged guests to upstage brides at upcoming summer weddings. Thorne showcased a shimmery copper dress from Club L London, claiming it was good enough to outshine any bride and her bridesmaids. Her remarks were met with disapproval from viewers, who labeled them as mean-spirited and disrespectful to the couple on their special day.
Currently halfway through a three-week residency at Aviva Studios, David Hoyle showcases a retrospective of his career and uses a cheeky and sometimes outrageous approach to deliver powerful messages. Despite the pressures of comedy and satire today, Hoyle remains determined to remind us that we all have the right to be who we are. Through the exhibition, live painting, and an upcoming cabaret night, he invites visitors to explore their senses and find a balance between frivolity and reflection.
Mob Psycho 100, a captivating anime series created by ONE (the renowned mangaka behind One Punch Man), has recently graced the Netflix library. This hilarious and thought-provoking show follows the journey of Mob, an unassuming middle-schooler who possesses extraordinary psychic powers. Amidst his unique abilities and the antics of his con-artist boss, Mob finds himself entangled in bizarre and often chaotic situations. To manage his immense power, he practices strict emotional control, but as the series progresses, his struggle becomes increasingly challenging, leading to laugh-out-loud situations. Despite its comedic undertones, Mob Psycho 100 explores deeper themes and features a compelling cast of characters. With both seasons now streaming on Netflix in the US and UK, this anime is a must-watch for fans of the genre and anyone seeking a fresh and entertaining series.
