This is Vantage POINT: A monthly moodboard for things that have been on our minds as of late, topics both fresh and familiar. We point you towards what to watch out for and what we think you should be enjoying right now. And if whatever we love becomes whatever you love (at least a little bit), then we’ve done our jobs.
With the start of the new quarter comes numerous fresh releases to motivate you in finishing the semester strong! Here are some recommendations from the Vantage staff to help you unwind; everything from books to anime, you’re bound to find here.
Photo sourced from IMDB
The Crown Season 4
Release: November 15, 2020
The Crown Season 4 has been a much-awaited series comeback, particularly because the third season left all its viewers craving for more. While I’m not a huge fan of historical dramas, the stirring storylines of the prim and proper life of the monarchs remind me of a royal reality TV show (despite the fictional story line!). With the addition of two new characters Princess Diana and Margaret Thatcher, there is no doubt that the series is about to get more exhilarating–especially because of these two renowned female icons. If you haven’t watched the first three seasons, I say binge watch now and catch the new one as soon as it streams on Netflix! -Dani
Image credit: License Global
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Release: November 17, 2020
Following the release of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey last 2018, this 12th major release from Ubisoft allows players to control Eivor. This character is a Viking raider caught in the conflict between the Brotherhood of Assassins and the Templar Order. As Eivor, players can lead raids across the farmlands of ninth-century England for the benefit of their clan to earn their place in Valhalla. In contrast to previous Assassin’s Creed, this installment also gives players a choice to play either a male or female Evior, which may prove interesting, to say the least. -Ly
Mushishi (manga)
Yuki Urushibara’s Mushishi is a rare mix of adventure-fantasy with the pace and ambience of the slice-of-life genre. It follows the journey of mushishi (literal translation: Master of Insects) Ginko, who can see mushi or beings beyond plants, souls, and people. He travels across swamps, forests, and mountains looking for mushi, and helping people who have troubles dealing with the creatures. Aside from the interesting plot, Urushibara’s vivid storytelling and intricate illustrations will draw you out and into the world—allowing you to see the world with more magic and fervor. - Jana
Photo sourced from Wikipedia
Image credit: Epilogue Books
The Rise of Kyoshi (2019)
The Rise of Kyoshi by F.C. Yee and Michael Dante DiMartino builds on the already rich Avatar (2005)—the cartoon, not the blue people—lore. The novel recounts the beginnings of Kyoshi’s avatarhood, mapping her journey from being an unassuming servant to the Boss Lady beloved by fans of the series. As the first installment of a two-part book series, The Rise of Kyoshi also tells the story of her iconic metal war fans and headress. For Kyoshi stans like me out there, The Rise of Kyoshi allows us to dive deep into life, sexuality, and pure awesomeness (to be honest) on one of the arguably best characters in the cartoon series. - Ly
Photo sourced from Listen Notes
Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast (2020)
Being in quarantine can make you miss the laughter that we often hear from the outside world. Writer-performer Juan Miguel Severo and director Antoinette Jadaone provide us with comfort, through the Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast on Spotify and Google Podcasts. The intimate and humorous discussions that they have about love, heartbreak, pop culture, and current events are the best companions that you can have while staying at home. In the case that you are still doubtful about this “worthless” podcast, I would recommend that you listen to the first three episodes. Jadaone and Severo reminisce about the loves and losses of college, the humble start of their careers, and the tipsy encounters they now laugh about. If you’re looking for a good laugh, Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast is definitely the most worthwhile podcast for you. - Dani
Photo sourced from Medium.com
Jujutsu Kaisen (2020)
While trying to fill in the void left by Kimetsu no Yaiba (2016), I found myself in another rabbit hole: Jujutsu Kaisen. The anime is almost your formulaic shonen anime, but richly occult—that’s where things get interesting. Akutami Gege’s sophomore work follows teenager Yuuji Itadori, who becomes a vessel for King of Curses, Ryoumen Sukuna, in a last minute decision to swallow a cursed finger. Curses, spirits, exorcisms—Jujustu Kaisen packs the essentials for an interesting premise. Beyond this, Jujutsu Kaisen also strikes a balance between heavy themes and humor with moral dilemmas that is offset by comic reliefs. The series is also no let-down when it comes to animation. The adaptation is a visual treat thanks to MAPPA (studio), with the pilot’s action scenes packing the quality of a major battle scene. - Jana