Hello, friends! Just a few things for your long weekend.
First, for the New Yorkers: I am teaching two courses later this fall — one on writing reviews (something I think few people get right, even critics), and the other on learning the craft of writing from Joan Didion (the subject, as you may recall, of my upcoming book).
Second, for everybody: speaking of that upcoming book, I have some news. It’s slated for release on March 11, 2025, nine days after the Oscars, when I have regained some slice of my brain again. And yes, you can and should pre-order it now at the retailer of your choice. Pre-ordering is tremendously helpful for its prospects and plus, you won’t have to remember later.
Third: people sometimes ask me if I reviewed some film or wrote on some topic. The best way to find that out (aside from googling “name of film” with “alissa wilkinson,” both in quotes) is to check my Times author page, where everything I do lands. That even includes audio.
Finally: that page is the best place to find what I’ve been writing this summer. But let me draw attention to two pieces that have proven popular with readers: this Arts & Leisure cover story on hatewatching, and this close-read of a pivotal scene from The Matrix, which turns 25 this year.
To my American and Canadian friends, happy long weekend! To everyone else … happy weekend!
Hi Alissa! For the Reviews class, if a student were out of town for one or two sessions, would there be any remote option?