The 'Bama Rush' Documentary Shows Sorority Culture Like You've Never Seen Before

May 04, 2023

Max (the brainchild of streaming platforms HBO Max and Discovery+) has released the trailer for its upcoming documentary Bama Rush, which follows The University of Alabama’s sorority-rush-turned-social-phenomenon. A phenomenon I happened to live through in 2019.

Watch The Bama Rush Official Trailer | Max

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Bama Rush | Official Trailer | Max

BAMA RUSH follows four young women as they prepare to rush at the University of Alabama in 2022. Against the viral backdrop of #BamaRush on TikTok, and the long-held tradition of sorority recruitment at the University of Alabama, the film explores the emotional complexities and high-stakes of belonging in this crucial window into womanhood. Bama Rush is streaming Tuesday May 23 on Max.

As you can imagine, I have some *thoughts.* The University of Alabama’s Panhellenic rush is a long, intense process under the scorching August sun, certainly not an ideal time to be dressed in semi-formal wear and four inch heels. Oh, and don't even get me started on attempting to maintain styled hair and makeup in the southern heat — that's a how-to story for another time.

From a 5 a.m. wakeup call to 8 p.m. return to the dorms, the week-long process is a cruel test of how social you can be on little-to-no sleep, and spoiler alert: the results aren't always pretty.

My 2019 rush experience was certainly different from the 2021 recruitment featured in Bama Rush. After all, TikTok was still in its infancy, the college admissions scandal broke and Travis Scott was still a fan-favorite. However, I do have some interesting insight as a former member of one of Alabama’s “top” houses.

The trailer, which features clips from the southern school’s annual Panhellenic rush, covers everything from real-life stressors to secret societies, sorority house stigmas, and southern style.

Bama rush is more intense than you can even imagine, and the pressure to get into a “top” house dominates the minds of young women entering the rush process, even before they step on Alabama’s freshly manicured campus. Alabama Greek life has very real implications, not only for the PMs (potential members) but politically. In the SEC, who you are (at least on the outside) matters, so you better put your best foot forward.

I am eagerly awaiting the doc’s May 23 release, and cannot wait to share all my thoughts on the portrayal of the rush process and provide the inside scoop on what rush is actually like. In the meantime, let us know what you think about the upcoming doc in the comments.

Stay updated on all the latest pop culture news with Brit + Co.

Photo Courtesy of Max

Lily-Rose Depp Doesn't Care What You Think About 'The Idol' — "Really Proud"

I love a good edge-of-your-seat drama series featuring characters the world loves to hate — I'm looking at you, Succession. But there are some shows whose boundaries are pushed to a...weird limit. Although HBO's The Idol was slated to be Euphoria 2.0, it's drawn criticism from those who have watched it.

To be fair, The Idol's goal may be about getting people to talk, good or bad. It dives into the professional and personal life of pop star Jocelyn, played by Lily-Rose Depp. But even that's being met with side eyes due to the role's eerie similarities to an actual celebrity — and The Weeknd's ex-girlfriend — Selena Gomez.

Here's all the evidence that makes thing awkward, plus learn how Lily-Rose Depp feels about the backlash over the series!

How is Selena connected to 'The Idol' co-creator The Weeknd?

In 2017, Selena Gomez and The Weeknd briefly dated after his relationship with model Bella Hadid ended. Although the relationship didn't make it to the one-year mark, they seemingly remained on friendly terms.

Why do fans feel Jocelyn From 'The Idol' is similar to Selena Gomez?

Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO

Fans were quick to point out the similarities between Selena and The Idol's Jocelyn, with one going as far to tweet, "ever since finding out the idol is probably just the weeknd’s selena gomez fanfic i haven’t been able to sleep."

According to BuzzFeed, fans noticed both Jocelyn and Selena began their careers as kids. Before Selena starred in Wizards of Waverly Place, she got her start on Barney & Friends in 2002. From there, she's had a successful career starring in various TV shows and movies.

Another glaring similarity fans mentioned was the way Jocelyn was filmed posing for a cover story in "lingerie and a hospital bracelet" — very similar to Selena's video for her song "Bad Liar," where she was also seen wearing a hospital bracelet. Another fan tweeted, "the weeknd is a nasty person. the comparison between jocelyn and selena is scary and disrespectful. the idol lacks originality," showing a side-by-side comparison of the two scenes.

We also can't help but notice that Jocelyn's best friend Leia is not only her best friend, but she's also her personal assistant...not too dissimilar from the personal and working relationship Selena has with her best friend Theresa.

Is Selena Gomez the only pop star 'The Idol' seems to mirror?

It seems as much. GQ noted that The Idol makes a nod to or mentions icons such as Prince, Donna Summer, and Madonna in the first episode, proving that pop culture can always be referenced to make a connection to something. Meanwhile, the details of Jocelyn's life eerily match up with Selena Gomez's life IRL — more than just a reference.

What has Lily-Rose Depp said about 'The Idol?'

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

It's been over a year since fans noticed weird similarities between The Idol and Selena Gomez, but Lily-Rose Depp recently opened up about her feelings surrounding the show.

She said, "I love it. Honestly, I love it," (via Vanity Fair) before acknowledging she knew everyone involved was taking a risk making the controversial series. "You make something and you hope that people like it, and you hope that it resonates with people," she added. Still, the actress said everyone "knew some people were not going to like it and that it was going to be too much for some people."

The backlash from some viewers didn't really bother her for a few reasons. Firstly, she has no qualms doing "things that maybe not everybody's down to do." Secondly, she's "not an Internet rat like that" and isn't "on Twitter" so she's "not reading stuff."

For Lily, she had a great time immersing herself in The Idol's world, calling it a "huge turning point" for her." "I learned so much about myself, and I got to progress so much in my own work. I learned how to dance, and sing, and do all these things that I had never done before."

Her final verdict? She doesn't regret The Idol. "So I look back on it and I can only think fondly, and I’m really proud of what it is.”

Watch The Trailer For HBO's 'The Idol'

Haven't watched The Idol yet? Watch the trailer, and let us know if you think this hot topic TV show is the Selena Gomez biopic everyone else thinks it is.

Do you think 'The Idol' mimics Selena Gomez's life? Let us know in the comments, and sign up for our email newsletter for all the latest pop culture news!

This post has been updated.

13 Worst Christmas Movies To Hate-Watch This Holiday Season (We Know You Want To)

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. I'm referring to our holiday movie watchlist, of course. The best new Christmas movies always make for a good time. But when it comes to the worst Christmas movies ever? Honestly, sometimes they make for an ever better time (especially when you're really dedicated to hate-watching). See which movies made the list below!

Keep reading to see the 13 worst Christmas movies that are so bad, they made the naughty list.

Our Little Secret (2024) — On Netflix Now

Chuck Zlotnick/Netflix

We're starting off strong with a Rotten Tomatoes rating that made my jaw drop! Despite the fact Lindsay Lohan's new comedy, which follows two exes who realize their partners are siblings, made me laugh out loud, it only got a RT rating of 36 percent and audience rating of 59 percent, as well as an IMDb rating of 5.8 out of 10. Yikes.

Four Christmases (2008) — On Hulu

New Line Productions

In my opinion, Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon are a match made in Heaven in Four Christmases, which follows their characters Brad and Kate as they go through four separate family gatherings on Christmas Day. Unfortunately, it looks like audiences disagree because the movie got a 5.7 out of 10 on IMDb and a 47 percent Rotten Tomatoes audience rating (with only a 25 percent from RT itself!!).

I'll Be Home For Christmas (1998) — On Hulu

Walt Disney Pictures

In I'll Be Home For Christmas, Jake (Jonathan Taylor Thomas) returns home for the holiday hoping that his estranged dad (Gary Cole) will get him a porsche...but winds up getting left with nothing but a Santa suit in the middle of the desert thanks to the football team. To make matters worse, his GF Allie (Jessica Biel) has no clue what happened to him, and decides to hitchhike with Jake's nemesis Eddie (Adam LaVorgna).

Even though it has a ton of elements that could make for an entertaining movie, this flick only got a 23 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, along with a 41 percent audience rating, and a 5.5 out of 10 on IMDb.

The Christmas Candle (2013) — On Tubi

EchoLight Studios

Despite the fact historical films like A Christmas Carol are beloved by so many, critics consider The Christmas Candle one of the worst Christmas movies. The story follows a minister (Hans Matheson) in 1800s England who finds himself in a standoff against townspeople (including Samantha Barks) who believe a candle, and an angel's touch, offer a miracle every Christmas Eve.

The movie only got a 22 percent on Rotten Tomatoes (despite the fact it has a 74 percent audience rating), and a 6.3 out of 10 on IMDb.

Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas (2013) — On Tubi

KC Bailey/Lionsgate

Tyler Perry continues to be a fan favorite, proven by the fact that even though A Madea Christmas got a 21 percent on RT and a 5.1 out of 10 on IMDb, its RT audience score is 70 percent!

The Christmas movie follows Madea (Tyler Perry) and her niece Eileen (Anna Maria Horsford) on a journey to surprise Eileen's daughter Lacey (Tika Sumpter). Turns out, the reason Lacey didn't come home is she eloped! But it's with a character played by Chad Michael Murray, so I'm more than willing to press play on this one.

The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006) — On Disney+

Walt Disney Studios

The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause was one of my favorite movies as a kid, and apparently the sentiment is not shared. This threequel follows Scott Calvin/Santa Claus (Tim Allen) goes toe-to-toe with Jack Frost (Martin Short) in a battle for the North Pole.

The movie only has a 17 percent RT rating and a 39 percent audience score, plus a 4.8 out of 10. Big yikes.

Deck the Halls (2006) — On Hulu

20th Century Fox/20th Century Studios

This horrible Christmas movie pairs up Matthew Broderick and Kristen Chenoweth three years after their stint in Disney's The Music Man, and follows Steve (Broderick) whose detailed, perfect Christmas is ruffled by Danny's (Danny DeVito) arrival in the neighborhood. One thing leads to another and suddenly Steve and Danny are in a battle to be the best-decorated house on the block. Oh, did I mention Kristin Davis costars?!

Deck the Halls has a startingly low rating of six percent on Rotten Tomatoes alongside its audience rating of 30 percent and a 5.1 out of 10 on IMDb.

A Law For Christmas (2023) — On Tubi

WesleyBros Productions

This new movie might have come just in time for the holidays last year, but viewers are wishing Santa had kept it for himself. The story (which stars Savannah Lathem and Chase Giacomo) follows a young politician who swaps the city for the country, and her job for her true calling.

It sounds romantic, but based on the 1.1 out of 10 rating on IMDb...it's not.

The Star Wars Holiday Special (1978)

CBS

I recently saw this special on air and, I'm sorry, I can totally see how some people consider this one of the worst Christmas movies. Aside from the fact it features OG Star Wars cast members like Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford, it just doesn't have the same magic as the movies we know and love.

The Star Wars Holiday Special follows Chewbacca and Han Solo as they journey to Kashyyyk (the Wookiee homeworld) for Life Day, and then have to entertain themselves when they're stopped by an Imperial blockade. Nothing says happy holidays like a 2.2 out of 10 IMDb rating and a 25 percent for both critics and audiences on RT. Unfortunately, it looks like this special isn't even available to stream.

Home Alone 3 (1997) — On Disney+

20th Century Fox/20th Century Studios

When are they gonna learn not to mess with originals?! Instead of picking up with Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), Home Alone 3 introduces us to Alex Pruitt (Alex D. Linz) who has to defend his home from a new set of crooks when he's home sick.

The film has a 35 percent RT score and 27 percent audience rating, which is a far cry from Home Alone's respective 66 and 80 percents! The movie does star a young Scarlett Johansson though, so that's a plus.

Unaccompanied Minors (2006) — On Paramount+

John Bramley/Warner Bros. Entertainment

Being an unaccompanied minor might be every kid's dream but turns out, the movie's a nightmare. The story follows five stranded young adults (Dyllan Christopher, Tyler James Williams, Gia Mantegna, Quinn Shephard, and Brett Kelly) who take the opportunity to run buck wild in an airport (which...is still low-key a dream of mine TBH). Unfortunately their airport official (Lewis Black) and his assistant (Wilmer Valderrama) are not amused.

This bad Christmas movie has a 30 percent on RT with an audience rating of 35 percent, and an IMDb score of 5.4 out of 10.

The Perfect Holiday (2007) — On Peacock

Yari Film Group

The Perfect Holiday? Not so perfect. The movie follows divorcée Nancy (Gabrielle Union), whose youngest daughter Emily (Khail Bryant) plots to put a smile back on her mom's face. When she asks a store Santa Benjamin (Morris Chestnut) to give Nancy a compliment, she beings a chain of events that might just bring some Christmas magic back into their lives.

Sadly the movie only got a 19 percent RT score and 52 percent audience rating alongside an IMDb rating of 4.8 out of 10.

The Nutcracker: The Untold Story (2010) — Rent On Amazon Prime

Freestyle Releasing

And we're rounding out the list with what might be the worst Christmas movie of all; somehow The Nutcracker: The Untold Story got a ZERO PERCENT RATING on Rotten Tomatoes! How is that even possible?!

The movie follows Mary (Elle Fanning), who receives a magical nutcracker from her Uncle Albert (Nathan Lane). When the nutcracker comes to life and transports Mary to a magical land on Christmas night, she has to stand off against the evil Rat King — and rescue the nutcracker when he's kidnapped.

Unfortunately, the inspiring plot did not inspire viewers considering it got a 28 percent RT audience score and 4.1 out of 10 on IMDb.

Do you think these are the worst Christmas movies ever? Let us know your pick on Facebook!

christmas pop culture holiday entertainment

OMG We're Getting A Fleetwood Mac Documentary — & It's AUTHORIZED By The Band

Fleetwood Mac lovers, it's officially our time to shine! Apple TV+ just announced they're releasing a brand new documentary that's actually authorized by the band themselves — so you KNOW it's gonna be good. I'm sure we all have plenty of ideas about whatwent down between this rumour-saddled band (I mean I'll never stop thinking about that performance of "Silver Springs"), but now we'll finally get an in-depth look at it all...and hopefully know what actually happened! While this all sounds a LOT like the plot of Daisy Jones & The Six, I know I'm excited to learn even more about such a beloved IRL band.

Here's everything you should know about the upcoming Fleetwood Mac documentary!

What is the new Fleetwood Mac documentary about?

Fleetwood Mac is officially sitting down to tell their own story, giving us a "fully authorized" documentary, according to Apple. Director Frank Marshall says, “This will be a film about the music and the people who created it.”

The film follows Fleetwood Mac's 50 year history, starting in 1974 when the band first met and winding through their many career highs and lows. Not only will we get exclusive interviews from the band, but we'll also get never-before-seen footage and archival interviews from Christine McVie.

Marshall says, "I am fascinated by how this incredible story of enormous musical achievement came about. Fleetwood Mac somehow managed to merge their often chaotic and almost operatic personal lives into their own tale in real-time, which then became legend. This will be a film about the music and the people who created it.”

The documentary is currently untitled, but TBH who cares what it's called? I just can't wait to watch!

Who will be featured in the new Fleetwood Mac documentary?

Apple TV+

This documentary will feature interviews from Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Christine McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, and Stevie Nicks.

When does the Fleetwood Mac documentary come out?

There isn't an official release date yet, but it truly can't come out soon enough!

Looking for more exciting pop culture news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

documentaries music entertainment fleetwood mac

Keiko Agena Revealed Which 'Gilmore Girls' Costars She Actually Keeps In Touch With

Gilmore Girls fans can all agree that, despite how much we love the show, Lane Kim (Keiko Agena) deserved WAY better. But Keiko admits that even though Lane's treatment on GG leaves a lot to be desired (starting with the fact that Lane is Korean American and Keiko is Japanese American), it was still a special role.

Keep reading to see which Gilmore Girls costars Keiko Agena talks to the most!

Keiko Agena has a complicated relationship with 'Gilmore Girls' character Lane Kim.

Saeed Adyani/Netflix

“I think what [the role] was for people was different than what it was for me,” she tells Juliet Litman on an episode of the Dear Felicity rewatch podcast (via People). “In a weird way, I feel like I want to honor the experience that people had from the show, and what it meant to them, especially young Asian people, because I get that comment a lot, about what it was like for them to see someone like that on screen.”

And it's no surprise that as much as Gilmore Girls viewers love Lane, Keiko "[loves] her too. I can tell, when I meet someone who knows Gilmore Girls or who loves Lane, it's like, I recognize that love. I see that you love that person."

But it's possible to hold two conflicting emotions at the same time, and although Lane Kim was an incredibly special role at the time, there are some things Keiko would do differently today. “The best thing is to have a Korean American writer [and a] Korean American actor,” she says. “I don't think that that role, cast that way, would happen today. But at that time, in 2000, it was such a different time that I definitely know I wouldn't have said no or pulled myself out of that situation at that time...Now it's just a mix of just having gratitude for having gone through that experience and having that experience.”

Keiko Agena also keeps in touch with two very special 'Gilmore Girls' costars!

And one aspect of Gilmore Girls that Keiko Agena is thankful for is her relationship with the Gilmore Girls cast! And there are two costars in particular she frequently keeps in contact with: John Cabrera (who played Brian) and Sean Gunn (who starred as Kirk).

“There is this kind of lovely nostalgia for that time, and yet also we have years since then,” she says. “I [have] gone to both of their weddings. Our friendship is part Gilmore Girls and appreciation for that crazy time, and then part just like a million other things that are just like friends.”

I was totally surprised to learn she keeps in contact with John and Sean (supposedly) more regularly than Alexis Bledel, but it makes sense when you remember Keiko, John, and Sean are all around the same age — and Alexis is 7 years younger. Hopefully we get another Gilmore Girls reunion to see our favorite television BFF's reunite!

Watch Lauren Graham & Scott Patterson's Mini Gilmore Girls Reunion for more Stars Hollow love!

pop culture gilmore girls entertainment

Your Home Gym Will Be Your Favorite Place With These Affordable Upgrades

Turn your home gym into your favorite workout spot with these affordable upgrades that maximize functionality and motivation. This article highlights must-have equipment and accessories that can transform any space into a personalized fitness haven without breaking the bank. From versatile resistance bands and adjustable dumbbells to space-saving storage racks and cushioned workout mats, these upgrades are perfect for all fitness levels. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or enhancing your current setup, our curated list ensures you’ll find budget-friendly solutions to elevate your home workouts. Get ready to break a sweat and crush your fitness goals in a gym tailored just for you!

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Upgrade Your Strength Routine With These Adjustable Dumbbells That Go Up to 24 Pounds

Amazon

Lift smart with adjustable dumbbells, the ultimate space-saving solution for strength training. With a magnetic pin mechanism, you can seamlessly switch weights between three and 24 pounds per hand. The ergonomic rubber grip ensures a comfortable and secure hold, so you can focus on crushing your goals worry-free.

The 'Bama Rush' Documentary Shows Sorority Culture Like You've Never Seen Before

Watch The Bama Rush Official Trailer | Max

'Gilmore Girls' Star Keiko Agena Just Revealed How She REALLY Feels About Controversial Lane Kim

Lily-Rose Depp Doesn't Care What You Think About 'The Idol' — "Really Proud"

How is Selena connected to 'The Idol' co-creator The Weeknd?

Why do fans feel Jocelyn From 'The Idol' is similar to Selena Gomez?

Is Selena Gomez the only pop star 'The Idol' seems to mirror?

What has Lily-Rose Depp said about 'The Idol?'

Watch The Trailer For HBO's 'The Idol'

13 Worst Christmas Movies To Hate-Watch This Holiday Season (We Know You Want To)

Keep reading to see the 13 worst Christmas movies that are so bad, they made the naughty list.

Our Little Secret (2024) — On Netflix Now

Four Christmases (2008) — On Hulu

I'll Be Home For Christmas (1998) — On Hulu

The Christmas Candle (2013) — On Tubi

​Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas (2013) — On Tubi

The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006) — On Disney+

Deck the Halls (2006) — On Hulu

A Law For Christmas (2023) — On Tubi

The Star Wars Holiday Special (1978)

Home Alone 3 (1997) — On Disney+

Unaccompanied Minors (2006) — On Paramount+

The Perfect Holiday (2007) — On Peacock

The Nutcracker: The Untold Story (2010) — Rent On Amazon Prime

OMG We're Getting A Fleetwood Mac Documentary — & It's AUTHORIZED By The Band

Here's everything you should know about the upcoming Fleetwood Mac documentary!

What is the new Fleetwood Mac documentary about?

Who will be featured in the new Fleetwood Mac documentary?

When does the Fleetwood Mac documentary come out?

Keiko Agena Revealed Which 'Gilmore Girls' Costars She Actually Keeps In Touch With

Keep reading to see which Gilmore Girls costars Keiko Agena talks to the most!

Keiko Agena has a complicated relationship with 'Gilmore Girls' character Lane Kim.

Keiko Agena also keeps in touch with two very special 'Gilmore Girls' costars!

Your Home Gym Will Be Your Favorite Place With These Affordable Upgrades

Upgrade Your Strength Routine With These Adjustable Dumbbells That Go Up to 24 Pounds

Add Variety to Your Workouts With This Essential Pilates Ring

Support Your Workouts With Copper-Infused Compression Leggings

Expand Your Strength Routine With a Resistance Band Set Complete With Handles

Sculpt Your Core Anywhere With a Portable Ab Wheel

Enjoy Yoga Anywhere With This Supportive Yoga Mat With a Carrying Strap

Bounce Into Fitness With This Trampoline That Isn't Just for Kids

Strengthen Your Core With This Wobble Board for Targeted Abs Workouts

Soothe Your Muscles With an Air Compression Calf Massager

Perfect Your Crunches With the Ultimate Neck and Back Support Tool

Hop on This Yoga Wheel

Channel Your Inner Gymnast With These Durable Rings

Keep Your Phone Secure on Runs With This Cell Phone Armband

Boost Agility and Coordination With This Agility Ladder

Enhance Your Workouts With These Wearable Weights for Added Intensity

Blow Off Steam With This Heavy-Duty Punching Bag

Stay Comfortable While Toning With These Mesh Sneakers

Maximize Cardio With a Space-Saving Compact Exercise Bike

Protect Floors and Joints With Puzzle Exercise Mats That Interlock Easily

Customize Your Strength Training With This Adjustable Fitness Bench Offering 16 Configurations

Build Strength With a Set of Adjustable Dumbbells for Versatility

Level Up Your Training With This Kettlebell in Various Weights

Relieve Muscle Tension With a Foam Roller Featuring a Textured Surface

Add a New Dimension to Your Training With These Egg Weights That Fit Perfectly in Your Palm

Elevate Your Bodyweight Workouts With This Set of Parallel Bars

Experience a Full-Body Workout With This Pilates Bar Kit Complete With Accessories

Take Your Home Workouts to New Heights With a Suspension System Featuring Industrial-Strength Straps

Enhance Core Strength With This Weighted Medicine Ball

Step Into Fitness With a Step-Up Platform for Sustained Cardio

Add Resistance to Any Routine With a Breathable Weighted Vest

Get Low-Impact Cardio With This Space-Efficient Rower

Track Your Progress With the Advanced Apple Watch Health Metrics

Increase Workout Intensity With a Set of Resistance Bands in 6 Tension Levels

Work Out Anywhere With These Dual-Sided Sliders for Any Surface

Stay Light on Your Feet With an Adjustable Jump Rope

Anchor Your Workouts With This Simple Yet Effective Door Anchor for Resistance Bands

Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas (2013) — On Tubi