PopaHALLics #142 "Aren't You Somebody?"
We know the face, but not the name, whether that's members of the Eagles (biography "Life in the Fast Lane") or comedian Martin Short being mistaken for a waiter (memoir "I Must Say"). But being somebody can also apply to coming into your own, whether you're seeking your first orgasm after a terminal diagnosis ("Dying for Sex") or finding new purpose in your life in a tiny Arctic village ("North of North"). Welcome to this episode's pop offerings!
Streaming:
- "North of North," Netflix. A goodhearted, if bumbling, Inuk woman (Anna Lambe) tries to reinvent herself in this warm, lighthearted comedy set in a tiny Arctic town. Also starring Maika Harper as her feisty mother and Mary Lynn Rajskub (Chloe on "24") as her boss
- "Dying for Sex," Hulu, FX, Disney +. In this comedy drama based on a real woman's podcast and memoir, Molly (Michelle Williams) is diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer and decides to explore her sexual desires before it's too late. With Jenny Slate, Rob Delaney, Sissy Spacek and Jay Duplass.
- "Small Things Like These," Hulu. A coal merchant (Cillian Murphy) uncovers disturbing secrets about the convent in an Irish village. This 2024 historical drama is adapted from Claire Keegan's novel.
Books:
- "Life in the Fast Lane: The Eagles' Reckless Ride Down the Rock & Roll Highway," by Mick Wall. This no-holds-barred biography written with rock 'n roll attitude traces the rise of one of the best-selling acts of all time. And how money, cocaine, and egos affected their relationships and music.
- "A Thousand Threads," by Neneh Cherry. This joyful autobiography looks at the fascinating life of the Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter. She grew up in a bohemian family in Stockholm, New York, and London. Her own music—a mix of punk funk, hip hop, and UK street soul—helped usher in a new wave of black British club culture.
- "I Must Say: My Life as a Humble Comedy Genius," by Martin Short. This 2014 memoir is funny, heartfelt, and chock full of celebrities (from buddies like Steve Martin to cringey encounters with Sinatra, Hepburn, and Tony Bennett). It's surprisingly poignant, as Short recounts the loss of a beloved brother and his parents by age 20 and his wife Nancy's battle with cancer. The memoir was published seven years before "Only Murders in the Building" would make Short a TV star again.
Music:
PopaHALLics #142 Playlist (Eagles) features the California band's hits as well as music from Neneh Cherry (memoir "A Thousand Threads") and her talented family. It's eclectic—and fun!
Click through the links to watch, read, and listen to what we're talking about.
