Oh, 2021, what a year you've been! As we prepare to flip the calendar page to a fresh new annum, it's time to pour ourselves a stiff drink and reflect on the past 12 months. Let's take a whimsical jaunt through the vast cultural oceans of TV, movies, books, alcohol, and even a dash of science.
Television: The Year in Review
The small screen was anything but in 2021, with series that were as varied and colorful as a cocktail menu at a tiki bar. From the heart-pounding, cerebral drama of "Succession" to the whimsically geeky "WandaVision", TV shows this past year have been a refuge for many, providing comfort, entertainment, and ample fodder for online debates.
Movies: The Cinematic Year in Review
Meanwhile, the silver screen saw the return of big blockbusters and small indie gems alike. Marvel kept us glued to our seats with the release of "Black Widow" and "Spider-Man: No Way Home", while the film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's "In The Heights" had us dancing in the aisles. Yet, it was the indie film "Nomadland", that reminded us of the power of human connection and resilience.
Books: The Literary Year in Review
On the literary front, 2021 was a year of fantastic flights of imagination and harsh realities. Kazuo Ishiguro’s "Klara and the Sun" took us on a dystopian journey into the world of artificial intelligence, while Bill Gates' "How to Avoid a Climate Disaster" reminded us of the pressing realities we face here on Earth.
Alcohol: The Spirited Year in Review
In the world of spirits, 2021 saw the continued rise of craft cocktails and the resurgence of old classics. Whiskey sour anyone? Breweries and distilleries also embraced science, using it to experiment with new flavors and techniques. And, whether you were sipping a craft beer while watching the latest Netflix series, or enjoying a glass of wine with a good book, alcohol played its part in our relaxation rituals.
Science: The Enlightening Year in Review
Finally, 2021 was a year where science was not just in the background, but front and center in our daily lives. From the ongoing fight against COVID-19 to the historic landing of Perseverance on Mars, science fact was just as riveting as science fiction. It may not have been the geekiest topic at the bar, but it was certainly the most impactful.
As we dive into the uncharted waters of 2022, we can only wonder what new TV shows, movies, books, and drinks will capture our imaginations. But one thing's for sure: whatever the new year brings, we'll be there, ready to review, discuss, and most importantly, enjoy. Cheers to the year ahead!
