Whether it's the latest film to hit the box office, or an author that's causing a buzz amongst young readers- my twitter timeline is always bursting with excitement for new trends appearing to be the 'latest thing'. This kind of hype can make anything seem like a craze that can't be missed, and is often how new fads are popularised. Falling victim to this kind of promotion, I have recently found myself exploring some of the albums, books and tv shows which are dominating the mainstream. Are they worth the hype?
American Horror Story is a thrilling television series produced by notable writers Ryan Murphy (creator of Glee) and Brad Falchuk. Three seasons in, this popular TV show has boomed in recent months- gaining popularity as new fans tweet amorously about the horror. After researching further into the show, I discovered that each season has an independent plot completely detached from the others. This means you can dip in at any time, not feeling the pressure to 'catch up' like many of us have with the likes of 'Breaking Bad' or '24'. I very quickly became glued to the third season of the show 'Coven', which follows the fantastical lives of modern day witches in New Orleans. The show is shocking, sensual and gritty, not to be misinterpreted as a childish fantasy which the plot overview could suggest. If you're looking for a sassy thriller to get your teeth into, this is the show for you. Look out for Jessica Lange's stand out performance as supreme witch Fiona Goode, her legendary one liners and reckless lifestyle had me gripped.
Another massively hyped item from 2014 has been Beyoncé's self titled album which she dropped unannounced earlier this year. Boasting seventeen new songs and videos, the sales of the recorded rocketed- everyone had to hear the latest tracks from Queen Bey. I have to hand it to her, who else could cause so much hype from releasing something so unexpected? When other artists rely on months of promotion and build up to sell their material, Beyoncé impressed all with her ability to rock the music world with her influence alone, cementing her position as self proclaimed 'queen'. Stand out tracks are 'Drunk In Love' and 'Pretty Hurts', and the recently remixed 'Flawless' featuring Nicki Minaj. In my personal opinion, the album falls short of her supreme vocals and ballads on 2008's 'I Am... Sasha Fierce'- but her impressive ability to change genres and musical styles is indicative of her talent and artistry.
This next item has been a cult favourite for a long time, and is available to purchase exclusively at urban outfitters or online. 'Wreck This Journal' is a book in which every page instructs the reader to partake in specific destructive or decorative acts. Whether it's 'scribble with a marker' or 'splash with tea', every page allows the user to be both creative and vandalistic. In other words, it's a great stress reliever, as well as a novelty source of entertainment. It's the kind of thing an 11 year old boy would spend all summer completing, but can be just as amusing for people of any age. Although potentially overpriced, this kind of journal can be fun and entertaining and is a usual quirky gift idea for a friend.
Popular among fans on twitter, Veronica Roth's 'Divergent' series has been a favourite of mine for a while. I have recently completed reading the conclusive chapter and cannot recommend the series enough. I imagine the author is sick and tired of comparisons between her novels and 'The Hunger Games' series, but I also hope she views this comment as validation of her talent and success. Not only an incredibly hyped book series, a smash hit film adaptation was recently released starring fresh faced Hollywood newbie Shailene Woodley. The tale follows characters Tris And Four as they struggle to maintain their dangerous relationship in a dystopian society. It's a great read and a brilliant movie- well worth the hype.
It's fair to say that 2014 has belonged to American author John Green. His books have increased in popularity dramatically over the last few months, partly due to the hype and excitement created by fans online. His stories are insightful and clever, the most famous of which, 'The Fault In Our Stars', being made into a popular film also featuring rising star Shailene Woodley (she's definitely one to watch). The book I have been most enjoying though is 'Paper Towns', a coming-of-age story following Q on his mission to find the girl he's always loved after she mysteriously disappears. It's a gripping and thoughtful dramatic comedy, a definite must have for book lovers like myself. John Green is a talented author who will probably be earning a lot of money over the next few years- well deserved in my eyes.
So, those are my pick of what's currently on trend. I've found that most of the time, products which are raved about usually are worth at least a look. It's interesting though, how hype can spread like wildfire and suddenly it's 'cool' to own an album or enjoy an author. These were a few examples of what I have enjoyed- let me know if you agree with my choices, or any other hyped products which did or did not live up to expectation. I might make this kind of item a regular thing on my blog?
Thanks guys!
