Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

The YouTube channel provides a fun, free, inclusive and COVID-proof way to work out.

Olivia Dimond, Bates College

Since late 2017, many of the streaming platform’s releases have included romantic comedies, signaling an industry-wide shift back toward the genre.

Juliana Fujii, Biola University

These Asian lifestyle vloggers crack open the good, the bad and the ugly of the Asian American experience.

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Originally known for her impersonation of the ultra-wealthy in college admissions scandals, the creator has brought her satire and witty humor to TikTok, rising even further in popularity.

Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

Not only will the food blogger help you make a mouthwatering loaf of sourdough bread, but he’ll also inspire you to chase your dreams while you’re at it.

Madelyn Haasken, Bemidji State University

These influencers create content that can boost your self-esteem — a breath of fresh air in a frequently toxic online culture.

Madalyn Watson, Baylor University

The premise is interesting, but product placement and the use of celebrities to draw in viewers make the program feel a bit inaccessible.

Yasmeen Ludy, University of Michigan

Using a Black main cast, the show uses the supernatural themes of H.P. Lovecraft to ask who the real monsters are.

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

While binging TV shows is fun and all, having episodes released on a week-by-week basis may be better for viewers.

James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

These ‘Avengers’ films can impact its viewers more in 2020 as the pandemic opens up a new perspective on the Infinity Saga.

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

TikTokers are taking the “Harry Potter” antagonist’s character arc into their own hands and creating escapist POVs.

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

Follower counts and likes once reigned as the indicator of success on social media platforms. Once free market greed trickled into the equation, influencers then relied on money to define their fame. Now, many are moving into huge homes, en masse, to capitalize on this development.

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

Will you be able to find the killer among your group?

Emilia Chavez, Rice University

In this Apple TV+ documentary, viewers watch as students navigate mock elections — and discover some things about politics in the process.

Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

Bellamy’s death shocked fans. Was it a compelling twist, or did it jeopardize everything that the show was about?

Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

The platform’s new coming-of-age movie encourages young people to not get too caught up in the college admissions process.

Ailun Shi, UC Berkeley

After being hyped up for so long, the Disney remake featured plot holes, one-dimensional characters and cultural inaccuracies.

Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

Paper lovers have turned to the video-sharing app to forge their own peaceful corner on a platform full of chaos.

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Thanks to character-driven storylines that are even more compelling than the first season, the show avoids falling into a second-season-slump.

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

The controversial films were an example of Black empowerment, and their mark can still be seen in filmmaking today.

Anna Swenson, Butler University

Charlie Kaufman’s latest film asks, what makes a person?

Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

As Daniel Craig prepares to pass the torch, the 007 franchise will start anew in more ways than one.

Ailun Shi, UC Berkeley

The new update has been lauded as the biggest iPhone update in years, but the reality is that it has taken a lot of inspiration from other apps, devices and companies.

Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

This Instagram account has everything you need to know about current politics and social justice issues.

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

Even though the actor is best known for his role in ‘Twilight,’ he might be the perfect fit for the caped crusader.

Ailun Shi, UC Berkeley

Staying in touch via the internet doesn’t have to be boring. These fun online games will keep that friendship spark going strong.

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Being an informed shopper can be challenging, but these resources will help you consume in a more conscious way.

Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

After years of watching Marvel and ‘Star Wars’ churn out the same formulas, bored moviegoers are now turning back to initially panned films like ‘Spider-Man 3.’

Madalyn Watson, Baylor University

And no, Ross and Rachel from ‘Friends’ are not a good example of this television trope. Their relationship is awful.

Farah Javed, CUNY Baruch College

The previously unassailable creator of ‘Hamilton’ is starting to receive some backlash, both political and personal.

Cathleen Luo, Columbia University

While ambitious, Disney’s live-action version of the beloved tale falls short of portraying three-dimensional characters, instead relying on broad generalities about Chinese culture.

Hannah Docter-Loeb, Wesleyan University

The late actor was not only an inspiration, but an incredibly skilled actor as well. Here are the top performances from his iconic career.

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

The show, set in 1990s Northern Ireland, follows five friends as they get into bizarre trouble accompanied by classic hits.

Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

Hollywood can be tricky, especially when people don’t get along behind the scenes. What happens when actors and their executive producers generate animosity? Sometimes, their characters pay the price.

Madalyn Watson, Baylor University

Charlie Kaufman’s latest psychological drama is exactly what you would expect — but completely unexpected at the same time.

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

The iconic actress was the first Black person to win an Academy Award, but in a cruel irony, it was for playing a caricatured role in a deeply racist Hollywood.

Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

Ever wondered what would happen if a theme park had no rules? This documentary is your chance to find out — from a safe distance.

Emilia Chavez, Rice University

The film finds its school administrator protagonists making small moral compromises until it explodes in a big way.

Farah Javed, CUNY Baruch College

Despite speaking truth to power and providing a much needed Muslim desi presence on television, Hasan Minhaj and his show will not see another season on Netflix.

James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

When performances depend on a live audience for entertainment, is it possible for the wrestlers and their fans to stay safe?

Anna Swenson, Butler University

This digital comic blends manga influences with Disney-inspired artwork to create a compelling tale of romance by the sea.

Yasmeen Ludy, University of Michigan

Amazon’s original superhero series gives a social commentary of many of the world’s evils, including what prompted the #MeToo movement.

Tamara Kamis, Cornell University

Social media has been a useful source for news and critical information. However, it is essential that you fact check information and ensure it is reputable.

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Starring and co-produced by Rob Lowe, the firefighter drama series highlights underrepresented perspectives, but fails to deliver realistic plot lines.

Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

Lifestyle creators used to be notoriously family-friendly. How did LaurDIY break out of her PG persona in her new podcast?

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

Multiple protagonists? Multiple cities? The much-anticipated but highly mysterious GTA VI could be another record-breaking installment of the controversial series.

Juliana Fujii, Biola University

When creating content, some stars see disobeying government mandates as a small price to pay, proving not all influencers should be considered role models.

Katherine Brand, University of Michigan

Kacen Callender’s young adult novel features a queer trans person of color amid friendships, love and a heartwarming journey of self-acceptance.

Hannah Reynoso, University of Iowa

Because of her youthful spirit, Siwa is an inspiration to young kids, but people are quick to criticize the superstar for her over-the-top style.

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The new podcast is helping people learn how to deal with their fear of watching horror movies.

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

Amy Sherman-Palladino’s titular mother-daughter duo continues to make even the worst days just a bit better. The final episode may have aired back in 2007, but fans are still eager to get their fix of life Stars Hollow.

Juliana Fujii, Biola University

Beyoncé’s latest release is a celebration of Black beauty to empower Black women. The project unites African music and cultures in a visual masterpiece.

Abigail Adeleke, University of Miami

The actor had a major impact on Black culture through his portrayal of several Black icons and legendary characters.

Madalyn Watson, Baylor University

These YouTubers will help you have a more efficient school year. Just make sure you don’t watch them as an excuse to procrastinate.

Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

With the pandemic still raging and movie theaters struggling to reopen, streaming services are becoming the main place for watching movies.

Jackie Sizing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Even as those on the social media platform pokes fun, the trend has reminded all those 2000s kids of some of their old favorites.

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

Not everyone on the team will make it out alive, but that was a risk they accepted with the chance to wreak more havoc.

Anna Swenson, Butler University

Both films use the trope, but their messages reveal what’s changed in the 27 years between their releases.

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

The original show creators have departed from the Netflix live-action remake, leading fans to speculate on what changes the media company wanted.

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

HBO’s show offers a crystal clear picture of why communities need new ways to resolve conflicts and combat interpersonal violence.

Yasmeen Ludy, University of Michigan

‘Is this your king?!’ Yes, he is. The actor may have played King T’Challa in a movie, but his legacy reminds us he was a king in reality.

Madelyn Haasken, Bemidji State University

From essential oils to bee sting therapy, this new docuseries explores the validity of many popular health and wellness practices.

Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

The legend of the Crocodile Hunter lives on through his wife and children as they strive to continue his work in animal conservation in their wholesome reality show.

Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

YouTube is the first place most students go to procrastinate, but now the platform might hold the key to productivity.

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

YouTubers, Twitch streamers and even Kentucky Fried Chicken have already jumped on the new game’s bandwagon.

Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

He’s everywhere. TikTok Willy Wonka is infiltrating the internet and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.

Juliana Fujii, Biola University

Music has become a multisensory experience. Check out a brief history of how music incorporated the two art forms to reimagine visuals and audio united.

Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

Oprah Winfrey’s new show provides a space for Americans to understand racial tension through uncomfortable yet eye-opening conversations.

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

‘TikTok’s worst dating coach’ offers a weak rebuttal to valid criticism of his misogynist views, demonstrating YouTube’s misunderstanding of what actually constitutes bullying.

Anna Swenson, Butler University

The Netflix Original series was abruptly cancelled after only one season, but now it’s getting another chance to grace your screens.

Audrey Martin, Boston University

The remake is finally being released via the subscription-based streaming service in September for an additional $30 — and that’s just one point of contention.

Jackie Sizing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Selena Gomez has come a long way since her debut on Disney Channel in ‘Wizards of Waverly Place.’ Now, she’s returning to the screen and starring in a comedy series on Hulu.

Farah Javed, CUNY Baruch College

The kids cartoon is proving to be especially relevant as it provides a glimmer of hope and imagination for viewers stuck in quarantine.

Katherine Brand, University of Michigan

This plot device is one of the most overdone romantic clichés out there. Should it be left behind, or is there a way to make it new again?

James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

Since the popular game was removed from the App Store, Epic Games has been waging a legal battle against Apple that has fans worried for the future of their favorite game.

Olivia Dimond, Bates College

The Freeform miniseries is one of the first scripted shows exploring the pandemic — filmed at the homes of actors already in quarantine together.

Imani Benberry, Columbia University

From ‘study with me’ videos to overviews of school supplies, the content ranges from relatable and engaging, to something that fetishizes productivity.

Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

These influencers are breaking down typical male stereotypes by exhibiting vulnerability on their popular YouTube channel and podcast.

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

The show may be over, but perhaps this offers the perfect opportunity to insert the characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Abigail Adeleke, University of Miami

Designer fashion, million-dollar commissions and catty gossip — welcome to your new favorite Netflix reality show.

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

The five-part series shifts the spotlight to autistic individuals, ultimately subverting exclusionary notions of mainstream media. Does it succeed?

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

Will audiences ever get to see Netflix’s new ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender,’ or are they stuck with M. Night Shyamalan’s 2010 atrocity?

Anna Swenson, Butler University

As the sitcom celebrates turning 20 years old, we look back on what made the show so captivating — and why it’s still a delight to watch.

Hannah Reynoso, University of Iowa

Training your pup to converse with you via non-barking communication isn’t as impossible as it may seem.

James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

Especially now during a pandemic, gamers shouldn’t take for granted the social benefits the act of playing with their friends provided.

Yasmeen Ludy, University of Michigan

It’s okay if you missed the play on Broadway — it’s headed for the silver screen next summer.

Madelyn Haasken, Bemidji State University

Dating shows that emphasize forced emotional connection and de-emphasize physical connection can be detrimental, especially for young people.

Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

As the world falls apart, we can find some solace in the works of the Korean filmmaker. Let’s take a look back at his various masterpieces.

Daniel Reed

Many academics are warning of a system in crisis. Fortunately, these innovators are proposing a few different approaches to solving the problem.

Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

With his witty sense of humor and wildly entertaining opinions, the Australian star’s YouTube channel is perfect for this generation’s present predicament of pain.

Olivia Dimond, Bates College

The group is dedicated to getting the theatrical works of female, trans and nonbinary playwrights onto the Broadway stage.

Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

Compared to other art forms, video games remain relatively unexamined. These three YouTube creators, however, are working to change that.

Katherine Brand, University of Michigan

Looking for well-developed LGBTQ+ characters without the same overused tropes? Check out these films for a fulfilling viewing experience.

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

While rare on their own, queer-focused documentaries often center around those who live life with their sexuality in the spotlight. This Netflix feature freshens the subject matter by following a lesbian couple who dated in secret for more than 60 years.

Emilia Chavez, Rice University

This Netflix series captures the intersection of mental health and athletics.

Megan Stager, University of Pittsburgh

And by doing so, he managed to portray the possibilities of self-motivated online learning

Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

The docuseries reveals astonishing connections between people and the planet, reminding us that there’s more than a virus linking the world together.

Yasmeen Ludy, University of Michigan

With the release of her latest visual album, Beyonce has set the bar yet again with a powerful tribute to Black culture.

Chris Dang, University of California, Riverside

Donald Glover will soon reprise his role as everyone’s favorite smooth-talking smuggler in a new show on Disney+.

Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

It has all the elements of great dance competition TV, but, especially before Season 4, the judges have consistently proved that they unfairly favor hip-hop over other dance styles.