My Favorite Media with Chloe Goldstein

We’re kicking off a new series asking our team: What are the five pieces of media that define you? Not necessarily the most famous or award-winning—just the ones that really stuck. The ones that shaped how you think, feel, and see the world.

Chloe Goldstein’s list is thoughtful, personal, and full of heart. From a film that shifted her perspective on pressure and perfection to a song that always seems to find its way back to her, these picks offer a glimpse into the media moments that have helped shape who she is.

1. Whiplash (2014)

Directed by Damien Chazelle, starring Miles Tellar and J.K Simmons

This movie absolutely changed the course of my life. Not everything in life is life and/or death. It can really feel like this a lot of the time, but it is just not the case. Allow yourself to make mistakes, allow yourself to take your time. There is power in value and where you place it. There is also power in passion and how you use it. No matter how good at something you get, you will NEVER be perfect. You can strive for perfection but I prefer to strive for success and reframe what that looks like for myself. This movie made me think a lot and the thoughts continue years after watching the film.

2. "A Song For You" by Donny Hathaway

I mean… no words. This song always comes back around in my life, and I feel like it must be included

3. Yellow Submarine (1968)

Directed by George Dunning, featuring The Beatles

I watched this for the first time when I was around 5 years old, and my life was never the same. I think this is where my love for weird, creepy puppets and trinkets began. The creativity and the plot-to-music ratio are everything to me. It unlocked something in me, beyond puppetry and weird, creepy pastas. The power of music + visuals! The glorious exploration of lyrics beyond songs. Absolutely crucial to who I am and my upbringing.

4. “Something, In General” by Ritt Momney 

Perfect song for when you’re like "wtf am i doing with my life, who tf am I, am I okay? Maybe I'm actually okay?" This defines my end of teenage to adult years for sure.

5. Wicked (2024)

Directed by Jon M. Chu, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande

I mean… you saw this coming… right? The best thing to come out of 2024.