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Parasite
First released in South Korea, Bong Joon-Ho’s “Parasite” — a genre-defying tale of wealth, inequality, betrayal and survival — has swept the world, garnering a Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and earning millions in the U.S. box office. The film, which blends elements of comedy, drama and even horror, depicts the struggles of the lower-class Kim family as they infiltrate the home of their wealthy counterpart, the Park family, one by one. As the Kims resort to sabotage and subterfuge to gain the Parks’ trust as employees, they discover a shocking secret within the Park mansion that will place both families in jeopardy. “Parasite’s” themes, germane to all ages and audiences, will undoubtedly render it a classic of contemporary international film. With its stunning visuals, stirring soundtrack and inventive storyline complete with unpredictable twists, “Parasite” is not a movie to miss. - Alison O'Neil
Simply Pressed
Being a townie, I pride myself on my knowledge of the many local eateries in the South Bend and Mishawaka area that students on campus may not know about — but should. One of these is Simply Pressed, a perfect option for a quick, healthy and delicious meal or snack. Simply Pressed is a family-owned cold pressed juice bar and cafe that uses 100% organic ingredients. While seating is limited, Simply Pressed is inviting and comfortable, with excellent music always playing. The food is a little pricey, but the quality makes up for it. The menu includes smoothies, juices, salads and acai bowls, all of which you can personalize with a breadth of flavors and ingredients. My go-to orders are strawberry banana smoothies and acai bowls with cacao, honey and bananas. I hear complaints from my friends and peers about the lack of healthy food options in the area, and it isn’t altogether unfounded. But to them, and anyone looking for delicious and healthy food, I definitely recommend Simply Pressed. - Abby Wager
Cat Person
When “Cat Person” was selected for publication in the Fiction section of “The New Yorker,” author Kristen Roupenian thought she was the happiest she would ever be. Then it gained traction and went viral, sparking conversations concerning dating in college and women’s inability to say no to unwanted sexual encounters. The story centers around a twenty-year-old college student, Margot, and her much older date, Robert. Margot is only somewhat attracted to Robert but enough to see a movie with him. They end the night at his house. Despite her age, she feels superior to Robert and believes that he is lucky to be with her. “Cat Person” is a compelling examination of male-female dynamics, and raises questions of who holds more power in such a situation, whether there are different kinds of power involved and if that power should exist. While written in third person and limited to Margot’s point of view, the narrative is believable and details an unsettling situation that invariably strikes a chord across genders. The unsatisfying ending only adds to its ability to spark important conversations between men and women. - Isabel Nguyen