Students on De Montfort University’s Arts and Entertainment Journalism module pick the films, plays, music, TV shows and books that shaped them.
My favourite film
50/50. An odd film title but essentially it’s about a guy who has cancer and has a 50/50 chance of surviving, which maybe isn’t the most expected subject for a favourite film, but it’s full of surprising laughs, and of course some heartbreak.
Top theatre experience
The Kite Runner. I had read the book, so I knew what was going to happen, but I still couldn’t stop the tears.
The TV show I’m currently binging
Criminal Minds. It’s got mystery, serial killers, and good characters. But it’s a long show so I can’t promise that I’ll finish it.
Earliest experience of music
Trance music. My mum has always been big on trance music and I grew up listening to it pretty much all day every day. Even on cleaning days, trips in the car and whilst my mum was getting ready to go out with her friends to the clubs.
The last gig I saw
Peach Pit. I had been waiting five years to see them but I had to miss the end of the set so I could catch the train home. Next time I will plan better so I don’t have to miss out on great live music. Their song Vickie was definitely a crowd favourite.
The book I couldn’t put down
Allegiant. I am not as well read as I used to be so the last book that I really got into was a part of the Divergent Trilogy, which I read as a teen. I remember in the final book I was reading the pages so fast trying to keep up with the action. I don’t think I’ll ever find myself in a moment as dramatic as the end of that book.
Overrated
Greggs. Don’t get me wrong I do love a sausage roll, but their prices are ridiculous now and the merch line they brought out makes me want to roll my eyes into the back of my head and keep them there.
Underrated
Ambient lighting is so underrated. I feel like everyone should have at least one or two warm lamps in their room and maybe some fairy lights for that extra cosy feel. Bright white overhead lights are never used in my room, lest I ruin the vibe.
My guilty pleasure
Watching cheesy teen movies. Even though I’m way too old to relate to any of the characters, I just love the nostalgic feel and the childlike wonder I appear to have lost now.
