Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University, Author at Study Breaks

in an article about perfume commercials, an illustration of perfume bottle surrounded by butterflies

Why Are Perfume Commercials so Weird?

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Those eye-catching fragrance advertisements may not be quite as effective as they are memorable.…

February 4, 2022

In an article about the 2022 Golden Globes, a scene from West Side Story

The 2022 Golden Globes Were Online and Embarrassing

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association drops the ball yet again in a lackluster 'awards ceremony' that took place entirely on Twitter.…

January 21, 2022

Unpacking Is the Moving Game That Might Just Move You, Too

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

As players help the protagonist move from residence to residence, they continue to root for and grow alongside her, despite never learning her name.…

January 18, 2022

How ‘Riverdale’ Has Opened Up Its Own Multiverse

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

In its mind-blowing 100th episode, the CW show proves that, despite its mixed reviews, it’s never going to stop upping the ante.…

January 9, 2022

Still of Garfield from The Amazing Spider-Man.

‘The Andrew Garfield Renaissance’ Is Here at Last

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Many people have a newfound appreciation and adoration for the talents of the British-American actor thanks to his excellent 2021 performances.…

January 3, 2022

an illustration depicting various memes of 2021

2021: A Memeworthy Year in Review

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Let’s take a walk down memory lane and remember what made all of us laugh throughout this eventful year.…

December 26, 2021

Still from one of Collins' many music videos.

Petra Collins Is the New Master of the Music Video

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

The Canadian artist has directed the videos of many renowned recording artists and it’s time you familiarize yourself with her fantastical artistry.…

December 20, 2021

‘Spencer’ Is the Best Tale About Princess Diana’s Life to Date

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Pablo Larraín’s latest film starring Kristen Stewart is far rawer and more honest than other adaptions have been, as it portrays her as a human instead of a 'public figure.'…

December 12, 2021

Everything You Need To Know Before Spotify Wrapped 2021

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Get ready for the annual super-specific listening statistics wrap-up by learning about its inception and what makes it so special.…

December 1, 2021

Celebrating the Earnest Magic of ‘The Muppets’ 10 Years Later

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Made by fans for fans, the beloved musical comedy film is a perfect example of what to do when you want to revisit a beloved property.…

November 29, 2021

The Dynamic Rerelease of Taylor Swift’s ‘All Too Well’

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

The singer-songwriter finally released the 10-minute version of her beloved song, which provides a candid look at one of her past relationships.…

November 22, 2021

In an article about his appearance in Eternals, Harry Styles

How Harry Styles’ Cameo in ‘Eternals’ Sparked a Debate About Spoilers

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

After a journalist tweeted that the English singer would be joining the MCU just hours after the latest installment's world premiere, many discussed whether or not he should have done so.…

November 14, 2021

‘Jennifer’s Body’ Is Finally Getting the Recognition It Deserves

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

For Gen Z, it’s hard to imagine a time when the comedy-horror film wasn’t a cultural phenomenon, but it’s taken a long time for it to get to where it is today.…

November 9, 2021

‘You’ Season 3 Takes the Show in Engrossing New Directions

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

The latest addition to the hit Netflix series explores what happens after Joe Goldberg gets his happily ever after, an ending that isn't as fulfilling as he had hoped.…

November 1, 2021

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons Update Exceeds Fan Expectations

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Dust off your Switches! The recently announced Version 2.0 of the beloved video game promises everything players have been waiting for.…

October 23, 2021

Las Culturistas hosts Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers

The ‘Las Culturistas’ Culture Awards: The Most Ambitious Event in Culture History

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Podcast hosts Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers offer a refreshing twist on the traditional award show format, boasting 100 categories and many unique nominees.…

October 14, 2021

A still from the controversial Dear Evan Hansen

‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and Its Problematic Anti-Hero of a Protagonist

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

In a film that chooses to make a manipulative and, at times even creepy, character its hero, Ben Platt’s age is the last thing you need to worry about.…

October 8, 2021

In article about Love On Tour, an illustration of Harry Styles

Harry Styles’ Love On Tour Was Worth The Wait

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

After a nearly two-year-long delay, the former One Direction singer is on the road thanks to multiple pandemic precautions — and it’s a show you won’t want to miss.…

September 29, 2021

‘Ted Lasso’ Season 2 Still Scores Despite Backlash

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Although some have taken issue with the plot this season, the series still charms in its signature way, choosing to spotlight mental health and character development.…

September 18, 2021

In an article about Spider-Man, Spider-Man stands framed by Doc Ock's metal tentacles against a background rife with action lines.

Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ Trilogy Was Always Destined to Be Remembered

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

With promises of the return of two fan-favorite villains and teasing the long-speculated appearance of Tobey Maguire, let’s take a look at what makes the OG web-slinger so unforgettable. …

September 14, 2021

In an article about Super Yaki Shop, a trail of movie tickets floats through a sea of floating popcorn, stickers, and 3D glasses.

Super Yaki Is the Best Place To Get Your Niche Movie Merch

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Can't find any good sweatshirts or stickers to rep your favorite cult classic? No worries! This online store celebrates beloved movies and stars, no matter how niche. And it gets pretty niche.…

September 7, 2021

In an article about letterboxd, a mailbox sits filled to the brim against a black spotted background.

Why Letterboxd Is the Best Social Media Platform for Filmgoers

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Millions have been using this movie-centered platform as a virtual diary to log what they watch, connect with others and — most importantly — share their opinions.…

August 29, 2021

In an article about Tiny Meat Gang and Moment House, a pink Cody Ko and Noel Miller float in a small, mostly green room.

Moment House and Tiny Meat Gang Are Previewing the Future of Livestreamed Entertainment

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on and the future remains uncertain, the comedic duo insisted that the show must go on.…

August 21, 2021

In an article about The Suicide Squad, Peacemaker, Harley Quinn and King Shark stand against a bright red background.

‘The Suicide Squad’ Is a Bloody Step in the Right Direction for the DCEU

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

James Gunn’s new R-rated action film brings its gore and greatness to the superhero film universe, earning well-deserved praise from both fans and critics alike.…

August 16, 2021

In an article about series the Other Two, a man and a woman sit at a restaurant table next to each other.

On ‘The Other Two,’ Fame Is a Mother … And a Little Brother

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

This hilarious satirical comedy follows the lives of two older siblings whose younger brother has become an overnight internet sensation. Meanwhile. they still don’t quite have it together.…

August 9, 2021

In a show about "Making It," actors Nick Offerman and Amy Poehler stand beside each other in a warehouse.

NBC’s ‘Making It’ Is Brimming With Humor, Heart and Crafting

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

By fully embracing its innovative makers and their one-of-kind designs, this reality competition show has successfully built an environment in which creatives can thrive.…

August 2, 2021

In an article about Jamie Loftus, the comedian stands against a blue and black background while holding a microphone.

Looking for a New Podcast? Jamie Loftus Has Three for You

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

The 'Boss Whom Is Girl' comedian has created three brilliant podcasts in the last year and a half, each of which features distinct, personal subject matters.…

July 25, 2021

In an article about Black Widow, Natasha Romanoff faces away from the viewer against a brown and gold background.

Does ‘Black Widow’ Make Up For the Mistreatment of Natasha Romanoff?

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Here is a look at the character's complicated and sometimes controversial history in the MCU, and how her solo film finally allows her to shine.…

July 17, 2021

A picture of comedian Conan O'Brien against a dark red curtain.

Conan O’Brien Bids Farewell to Late-Night Television

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

It's time to reflect on this American media personality's run on talk shows, as well as his distinct comedic style, evolving format and plans for the future.…

July 10, 2021

A pattern of various iconic items from iCarly against a pink background.

iRevive a TV Show: What the ‘iCarly’ Reboot Does Right

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

The new reboot of a beloved old Nickelodeon show sets a great example for future show revivals through its clever writing, mature perspective and care for the cast.…

July 5, 2021

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Writer Profile

Mai Senser

Virginia Commonwealth University
English major, Media Studies minor

Why Are Perfume Commercials so Weird?

The 2022 Golden Globes Were Online and Embarrassing

Unpacking Is the Moving Game That Might Just Move You, Too

How ‘Riverdale’ Has Opened Up Its Own Multiverse

2021: A Memeworthy Year in Review

Petra Collins Is the New Master of the Music Video

‘Spencer’ Is the Best Tale About Princess Diana’s Life to Date

Everything You Need To Know Before Spotify Wrapped 2021

Celebrating the Earnest Magic of ‘The Muppets’ 10 Years Later

The Dynamic Rerelease of Taylor Swift’s ‘All Too Well’

How Harry Styles’ Cameo in ‘Eternals’ Sparked a Debate About Spoilers

‘Jennifer’s Body’ Is Finally Getting the Recognition It Deserves

‘You’ Season 3 Takes the Show in Engrossing New Directions

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons Update Exceeds Fan Expectations

The ‘Las Culturistas’ Culture Awards: The Most Ambitious Event in Culture History

Harry Styles’ Love On Tour Was Worth The Wait

‘Ted Lasso’ Season 2 Still Scores Despite Backlash

Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ Trilogy Was Always Destined to Be Remembered

Super Yaki Is the Best Place To Get Your Niche Movie Merch

Moment House and Tiny Meat Gang Are Previewing the Future of Livestreamed Entertainment

‘The Suicide Squad’ Is a Bloody Step in the Right Direction for the DCEU

On ‘The Other Two,’ Fame Is a Mother … And a Little Brother

NBC’s ‘Making It’ Is Brimming With Humor, Heart and Crafting

Looking for a New Podcast? Jamie Loftus Has Three for You

Does ‘Black Widow’ Make Up For the Mistreatment of Natasha Romanoff?

Conan O’Brien Bids Farewell to Late-Night Television

iRevive a TV Show: What the ‘iCarly’ Reboot Does Right

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Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

Writer Profile

Virginia Commonwealth University English major, Media Studies minor

Virginia Commonwealth University
English major, Media Studies minor