High-Stark & Hyper-Optimized

This week, I look at the fine line between prestige drama and real-world absurdity. First, we preview the most anticipated new releases on screen—including Unchosen and Margot's Got Money Problems. Then, we shift to the strange state of California culture: navigating the steep price of paradise, the surreal longevity of Spencer Pratt, and the trend of hyper-optimizing our lives to the point of joylessness (yes, we're talking about the CEO who was defeated by two glasses of wine). Plus, a defense of the humble cat figurine as high art.