As the year draws to a close, Barack Obama once again delights in sharing his cultural treasures, offering a window into his favourite movies, books, and music of 2023. Embracing his customary style, the former president took to social media to unveil a tapestry of artistic excellence that captured his imagination throughout the year, inviting his audience to join in the conversation by sharing their favourites.
Starting with literature, Obama eloquently curated a diverse selection of literary marvels that resonated with him deeply. Among the standout books were James McBride’s enchanting “The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store,” Benjamin Labatut’s thought-provoking “The Maniac,” and Matthew Desmond’s poignant Exploration in “Poverty, by America.” Safiya Sinclair’s “How to Say Babylon,” David Grann’s gripping “The Wager,” Chris Miller’s evocative “Chip War,” and Lauren Groff’s expansive “The Vaster Wilds” also found coveted spots on his list. Noteworthy mentions encompassed Sarah Bakewell’s “Humanly Possible,” Jonathan Eig’s insightful “King: A Life,” and Abraham Verghese’s illuminating “The Covenant of Water,” among others.
Transitioning seamlessly to cinema, Obama’s discerning eye highlighted a trifecta of films that bore the stamp of his and Michelle Obama’s production company, Higher Ground. He openly confessed, “I’m biased since these movies were produced by Higher Ground, but these are three of the best films I saw this year”: “Rustin,” “Leave the World Behind,” and “American Symphony.” Notably, the former president paid homage to the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes, acknowledging the significant strides made in advocating for improved working conditions within the industry. He underscored the impact of their efforts, spotlighting movies that were emblematic of this transformative period, including “The Holdovers,” “Blackberry,” “Oppenheimer,” “American Fiction,” “Anatomy of a Fall,” “Monster,” “Past Lives,” “Air,” “Polite Society,” and “A Thousand and One.”
Obama’s eclectic taste and nuanced appreciation for the arts radiate through his selections, offering a glimpse into the cultural landscape that captivated him in 2023. In his characteristic fashion, he celebrates not just individual brilliance but also the collective efforts that shape and redefine the creative realm, underscoring the profound impact of storytelling in various forms.
Through his annual cultural roundup, Barack Obama continues to inspire dialogue, fostering a shared appreciation for the richness and diversity of human expression, reminding us all of the enduring power of art to illuminate, challenge, and unite.
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