Best TV Kisses Ranked: New Girl, Parks & Rec & The Female Gaze

In this special Valentine's Day episode of Wonder in the Weeds, we take a brief pause from the heavy news cycle in Minneapolis to find a little joy in the fire. We’re breaking down our favorite on-screen romances, analyzing why mutual respect creates the best chemistry, and discussing the "female gaze" in media.Finally, we end with The Wonder: a spotlight on the incredible resilience of the Minneapolis community, including how neighbors and businesses like the Modern Times Cafe are organizing to support one another.In This Episode:Favorite Kisses: We break down the famous "trench coat" kiss between Nick and Jess in New Girl and why it remains the gold standard for on-screen chemistry.Parks and Recreation: Why Ben and Leslie represent a "meeting of the minds" and true partnership.Rivals to Lovers: Discussing the dynamic in Red, White & Royal Blue and the concept of "competition" as a form of intimacy.The "Female Gaze": A look at why characters written by women feel more respectful and genuine.The Wonder: An update on Minneapolis mutual aid, where neighbors are feeding neighbors and the Modern Times Cafe is providing free food to the community.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Life in Minneapolis & The PSA04:01 - Valentine's Special: Our Favorite Movie & TV Kisses05:16 - New Girl: The Nick & Jess "Trench Coat" Kiss16:32 - Parks & Rec: Ben & Leslie’s mutual respect22:28 - The "Female Gaze" & Writing Men with Respect44:10 - Moonstruck & My Lady Jane51:52 - The Wonder: Minneapolis Mutual Aid & Modern Times CafeLet's Connect:Website: TheWonder.Life Get full access to Cristie Ritz-King, PsyD at critzking.substack.com/subscribe