Spring has sprung, and while there’s nothing The State Press can do about the Arizona heat, we can give some cool movies, music and media to experience indoors.
Underrated Spring Rom-Coms:
When I think of spring, I think of flowers in bloom and love in the air. Here are some underrated rom-com picks to sit down and indulge this spring season.
“My Big Fat Greek Wedding” (2002)
If you want a movie that is sweet and bursting at the seams with life and laughter, look no further. “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” is the kind of movie that you can sit down to watch after a long day and feel lighter after, like everything is going to be okay. It’s a romance that checks off all the boxes, but also a sweet familial flick that’s going to want to make you call up your mom and ask her how your distant cousin you always avoid at parties is doing.
“Eternity” (2025)
“Eternity” is a modern rom-com flushed with nostalgia through its dream-like visuals and costuming. The movie isn’t free from the tropes we constantly see, like love triangles, but its original premise and out-of-this-world setting are enough reason to watch. Deeply romantic and also hilariously funny, “Eternity” will have you laughing through your bittersweet tears.
“Roman Holiday” (1953)
For a more classic option, refer to one of the most timeless rom-coms in the romance canon, a tragic tale fit for all those obsessed with yearning and longing glances. Before the film makes you cry with its heartbreak, it will have you wishing you could gallivant the streets of Rome. Although older in its years, “Roman Holiday” is a rather accessible movie fit for anyone who enjoys old Hollywood or has never seen a movie made before the 21st century.
“Return To Me” (2000)
If you are willing to look past this film’s odd but endearing premise, “Return To Me” is a relaxing watch that makes all your problems feel a little smaller. It’s nostalgic for a time when everything felt sincere, when you didn’t have to deal with finding a date online and could just walk into your neighborhood bar, and they would fall in your lap. The film also has an incredible early 2000s pastel wardrobe to inspire all your springtime outfits.
Spring Time Tunes:
The spring season is seen as a time of rebirth. Here are some albums to shuffle this season and revive your listening ears from the winter blues.
“Who’s The Clown?” – Audrey Hobert
Nothing is more invigorating than a good pop track, and Audrey Hobert’s debut is full of them. Her writing and production are witty, relatable and raw. Listening to her songs feels like a hangout sesh with your best friend who just gets you.
“What’s Going On” – Marvin Gaye
For an album released in 1971, “What’s Going On” remains timeless. Its effervescent soul production, filled with other musical influences, is perfect for a slow, introspective afternoon. Its progressive lyrics and sound invite listeners to experience a period in time and reflect on our current day.
“The Art of Loving” – Olivia Dean
A Grammy-winning artist for a reason, Oliva Dean’s “The Art of Loving” is the equivalent of basking in the sun on a lazy Sunday. It’s an album you can listen to in passing and admire its polished sound. But it’s also an album you can sit down and digest, processing the lyrics and finding beauty and reliability in them.
Local Events:
If you are thinking about stepping out and braving the heat, here are some local and ASU events to attend this spring in Phoenix.
Community Day – Desert Botanical Garden
For a little time spent with Mother Nature, consider the Desert Botanical Garden. Every month, the garden holds a Community Pay-What-You-Can day. The next scheduled one is May 12. Go out and experience all the beautiful sights while contributing to the garden’s conservation plans.
Scraps Market
If you love arts and crafts or handmade goods, the Scraps Market has you covered. On April 25, they are hosting a medieval-themed nighttime market with free crafts, photo opportunities and even a DIY crown-making station. The event is from 5-9 p.m. at The McKinley Club in downtown Phoenix, with drinks served by Indigo Room.
ASU Nature Drawing Sessions
If you want something more relaxing and grounded, check out ASU’s Nature Drawing Sessions at Hayden Library on April 15 and 29. Get a chance to draw pieces from the library’s natural history collection. The event is free for students, and you don’t even need to bring your own art supplies; the library will provide them.
Edited by Jack McCarthy, Henry Smardo and Pippa Fung.
Reach the reporter at jagon128@asu.edu.
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Jazlyn GonzalesThe Echo Reporter
Jazlyn Gonzales is a senior studying Journalism and Mass Communication. This is her fourth semester with The State Press. She has also interned at KJZZ and worked for Blaze Radio