#74: "modern, high tech, surprisingly gorgeous"
Welcome to issue #74 of THIS NEWSLETTER CANNOT SAVE YOU. It’s a slightly truncated issue this week, as I’m rushing against time to get this issue out before heading off to NYC for several weeks, during which visit I don’t expect to have time for much writing. I duly hope you find activities to occupy the gaping void left by the absence of short form media recommendations in your lives. A few things I do when I’m not watching these minor treats: stare at ceiling, mope, gnash teeth. Give them a shot! They’re satisfying in that sort of “I could be doing something meaningful with my life… but then again” kind of way. And remember the wise thoughts of Rohan:
At the age of 9, I was just arriving at the conclusion that slidinng head first off my neighbor’s garage into a snow bank was a smart idea, so kudos to Rohan for advancing the state of the art. Okay, on to the goods!
Scottovision
“Favourites” (2023) - Two parents are faced with an impossible situation when a camping trip goes absolutely wrong in this crisp black comedy written by Nick Russell and Nick Musgrove and directed by Russell. The conclusion they reach is necessarily life-altering.
“I Am In Control” (2023) - Director/writer John Purcell turns in a funny character study about a couple whose relationship to their bodily functions is decided atypical. Purcell and his co-writer Malin von Euler-Hogan don’t spare us the ruthless side effects of the couple’s beliefs, which reach absurd levels of goofy.
“Hot And Tasty” (2019) - Two hilariously drunk women decide chicken tenders are exactly what they need, but the chicken shop is currently overrun by criminals in the midst of dark and unsavory acts. What to do, what to do? Directed, animated and written by Laura Jayne Hodkin.
“Candeleda” (2025) - Electronic artist Max Cooper, working with fellow musician Rob Clouth on this track, delivers an absolutely psychedelic new music video by Brandon Eversole. Not the stereotypical tye-dye, Mandelbrot fashion; these are modern, high tech, surprisingly gorgeous.
“Deepfake Apology Video” (2024) - A narcissistic woman is confronted by her brother-in-law over some deeply antisocial behavior in this black comedy written and directed by Jerzy Rose & Brooke Bundy. It’s a startling vision of the world we’re entering, giving no comfort. But it’s extremely well-acted and the confrontation is tight and believable.
“Strong Because You Are” (2025) - A captive frees herself into an uncertain world in this poetic music video by Sevdaliza, directed by Willem Kantine. Sevdaliza plays all the characters in this rich, swirling, surreal video-portrait of a world dense with nuance and symbology but offering no answers.
“Super Real Super Grounded” (2024) - A woman’s audition for a commercial turns into a nightmarish exploration of deep psychology. Certainly any actor will recognize the sensations on display, but the humorous, cynical black comedy will appeal to anyone seeking a little insight into the performer’s life. Written and directed by Margaux Susi.
“ZZZ” (2024) - A woman longing to connect once more with her dead husband heads into the underground and seeks out “sleep dealers” who can provide tailored dreams for a fee. Her dream becomes a conduit to him, but is the experience itself a nightmare? Written and directed by Felipe Vargas.
Exit Music
Sending you out this issue with a recent DJ set by electronic maestro Four Tet, from the Lost Village festival in Lincolnshire. I wish I could say I recognized any of the artists in his set, but aside from a few of his own tracks, I regret to say I am simply not cool enough to be in the know.
Here's the YouTube playlist with (most of) this issue's recos. Please enjoy responsibly.
Until next time, I remain your friendly correspondent, thinking of you,
Scotto
Scotto Moore is the author of WILD MASSIVE, BATTLE OF THE LINGUIST MAGES, and YOUR FAVORITE BAND CANNOT SAVE YOU.
See also: