"A Doll's House" Actress Jesmille Darbouze Is Learning To Ask For What She Wants

Mar 28, 2023

You might be familiar with Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, but the newest revival on Broadway (penned by Amy Herzog and starring Academy Award winner Jessica Chastain and Jesmille Darbouze) is ready to upend your expectations.

In the classic play, Jessica Chastain’s Nora quickly becomes disenchanted with her husband's behavior, and she must balance her role as wife and mother alongside her own secrets. Darbouze stars as Nora’s friend Kristine, who reappears at the same time Nora’s secrets are threatened.

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Kiss Me Kate perform "Too Darn Hot" at the 2019 Tonys

Opening night of the show (March 9, 2023) was a full circle moment for Darbouze, a Long Island native. After joining shows like Kiss Me, Kate and Betrayal in 2019, she returned to nursing school when the pandemic shut down Broadway. After years away from her career of choice, she booked the role of Kristine in 2022.

Throughout her audition, Darbouze hoped to at least book an understudy role (someone who learns a role to fill in on short notice). When she actually booked Kristine, her first thought was “Are they sure?”

“In my mind, I was really prepared for them to either offer me the understudy because they’d probably go with someone with a bigger name,” she says. Although she’s been in the business since 2006, her path to success has had its ups and downs.

“I think for women, we have a history of things being exponentially harder for us, and there being less opportunity,” Darbouze says. “And then I have the added factor of being a woman of color in the industry as well, where there are not many roles available to us.”

Image via Jenny Anderson

Along with her admiring the "beautiful" work of her costars, Darbouze is inspired by how the theatre community rebuilt following the pandemic — which is one of the only times Broadway went fully dark — as well as those communities who are fighting for their voices to be heard.

Just like many fictional characters, Kristine’s journey parallels these real-world experiences. She is strong and grounded, and refuses to back down from what she wants her life to look like.

“I think this adaptation is much more accessible...it humanizes all of these characters in a way that we're not used to seeing,” Darbouze says. “[Kristine] is someone who, at the top of the show, is ready to change her life, and ready to advocate for herself in a way that she's been conditioned not to.”

Darbouze is no stranger to that feeling. “There's been a little bit of a stigma of asking for what you want, and then as a woman even more, because then you're either pinned as difficult or needy, or hard to work with, or whatever it could be.”

Women are constantly expected to appear pleasant and put-together, to present their lives in a picture-perfect way. But the women in A Doll’s House refuse to do that — a powerful statement considering the original play premiered before American women even had the right to vote. Kristine wears her heart on her sleeve and balances her fierce love with her persistence.

“Kristine is saying ‘[I] sacrificed so much I’m not doing it again,’ and that I really love,” Darbouze says. “I've been able to, not for the first time, but in playing this role, see the importance of self-advocacy.”

In addition to these emotional themes, the technical aspects of the show add a whole new complexity. The lighting choices, mixed with the actors’ blocking (namely, who quite literally overshadows whom) give an exaggerated visual aid that underscores the ominous tone of the plot.

There also aren’t any props or sets, requiring a different kind of awareness, both as a cast and audience member: “It's just you in the chair. There's no set, there's no props to hide behind. So it just sort of amplifies the importance of what we're saying, how we're saying it, and the importance of being connected to what we're saying.”

Herzog’s adaptation allows space for the actors to sit in Nora and Kristine’s friendship, and adding a whole new layer for female audience members.

After the show, Darbouze loves going to the stage door to sign programs and talk with audience members. “It's quite common that a lot of women are very emotional and in tears, and so moved by this piece, and what it awakens in them,” she says. “I think it does this beautiful job of self-reflection, especially for a woman, and then you connect that to whatever you might be experiencing in your life at this moment.”

Image via Jenny Anderson

Even though the plot is fictional, it touches on a variety of details within womanhood that resonate on a personal level. The bond between Nora and Kristine, and how they walk with one another through hardship, emphasizes how important community and real-world sisterhood is.

“I think it's more important than ever that women stick together and support each other and build each other up,” she says. “There's an unspoken bond, an understanding of what it is to be a woman in this world.”

“My female friendships, they ground me, they remind me what's important, they lift me up,” she continues. “I had a wonderful friend who did my makeup opening night. And she was such a great reminder saying, ‘You deserve to be here. You're exactly where you need to be, you worked so hard for this and embrace this moment.’ And I was in tears. So grateful that I had a female friend and a woman to say those words to me.”

Friends who speak truth in your life is something we all need — and the show highlights that truth as much as it does the sisterhood. “Being true to you and speaking your truth I think also frees you as an artist being true, especially being true to who you are and trusting that like that truth that you carry is enough, I think also influences your work,” she says.

“In truth lies freedom in so many different ways…There’s an artistic freedom, there's a personal freedom, there’s just like a spirit — like an openness that you can't allow yourself to access or be exposed to, unless you tap into that truth.”

You can see A Doll’s House through June 10, 2023 at The Hudson Theatre in New York City. You can keep up with Jesmille on Instagram, and check out our email newsletter for more exclusives like this!

Featured image via Emilio Madrid.

35 Magical Photos Of Christmas In New York To Inspire Wanderlust

Hallmark might have convinced us that the holidays are best spent in a small town, but I think Christmas in New York is just as magical. Look in any corner of this massive city and you'll find lights, decor, and your favorite Christmas songs. And just like the city itself, the holiday comes in multitudes. Some of it's maximalistic and over-the-top, and some of it is sleek and chic. It all depends on which corner you find yourself!

Here are 35 photos of Christmas in New York that will leave you daydreaming about a holiday in the city — and might just convince you to book a trip for next year!

Get in the spirit with these Christmas in New York photos!

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The only thing more magical than a Christmas tree in Manhattan? A Christmas tree in Manhattan covered in snow. Yes, please.

Alison Ives/Brit + Co

There's an endless supply of coffee shops in the city, and when they feature bright red color palettes, it just means the corner gets some Christmas cheer all year long.

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I love how this photo captures the energy of the city. The hustle! The bustle! The lights!

Tim Hüfner/Unsplash

It wouldn't be Christmas in New York without a trip to Radio City Music Hall. Rockettes anyone?

Alison Ives/Brit + Co

Another iconic part of any trip to New York during the holidays is ice skating at Rockefeller center. You'll feel like you're in a movie!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

And right up the stairs after ice skating, you'll find Rockefeller plaza lit by angels and stars. You can almost hear the trumpets!

Andre Benz/Unsplash

Feel like you're an elf in the North Pole when you check out these larger-than-life red baubles.

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

The Rockefeller tree is a gorgeous, gorgeous girl. Stop by after 10pm to avoid the crowds!

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You'll also find that the simple details of Christmas in New York will take your breath away too. Like these boughs and red bows!

Alison Ives/Brit + Co

Match the holiday decor with your brightest red sweater(and black knee high boots while you're at it).

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Just because New Yorkers don't have front yards doesn't mean they can't have outdoor decor. Look at this festive fire escape!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Gorgeous lights are all over the city — like this spot just outside the Plaza and Central Park.

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Bask in the glow of a holiday-themed Empire State Building. It only happens once a year!

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Even the New York Public Library lions are getting into the spirit!

Alison Ives/Brit + Co

And inside the iconic library, you'll find even more Christmas trees decorated with pinecones, bows, and fake snow. Absolutely magical.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The most fun thing about walking around the city at Christmas is seeing all the shops full of garland, lights, and bows!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

And Christmas in New York means plenty of stoop decor — wreaths, lights, garlands, oh my!

Keep scrolling to see even more Christmas in New York!

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You'll find lights on every street corner!

Andre Benz/Unsplash

Take a trip to DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) for an iconic photo opportunity and (hopefully) some snow too.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Christmas in New York can brighten even the dreariest winter day.

Vittoria Tomassini/Dupe

Remember what I said about bright red restaurants? Well, add a Christmas tree and you've got yourself an extra-festive street corner.

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

Saks Fifth Avenue might not be doing a light show this year, but it's always a good time to go down memory lane.

Uriel Mont/Pexels

Minimalist decor helps landmarks like The Vessel stand out against a dark night sky — and serve as a lesson in enjoying simple details.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Nobody does a bright and colorful Christmas like Tiffany & Co. I mean, just LOOK, at this tree!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

If you've been missing Tumblr, and listening to "I Look in People's Windows" by Taylor Swift on repeat, I chose this vibey picture with you in mind.

Jen Dries/Unsplash

There's never a shortage of oversized Christmas icons in the city! These giant candy canes make me feel like I'm in Santa's workshop.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Grand Central Station is decked out for the season with garland, wreaths, and red and green lights.

Christmas in New York wouldn't be complete without these iconic locations.

Amy Heaton/Dupe

Cartier always makes Christmas in New York feel more sophisticated and their starry design for 2024 is breathtaking.

Joseph Pearson/Unsplash

I'm dreaming of a White Christmas in New York!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The Columbus Circle shops always have the brightest (and most colorful) Christmas stars.

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

New York isn't all apartment buildings! Take a trek out to Dyker Heights to see some serious Christmas lawn decor.

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

Not a fan of red or green? There are plenty of other color options ;).

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

"Snowflakes and nutcrackers" sounds like the perfect way to start a Christmas song.

Amy Heaton/Dupe

Eloise at Christmastime is one of the ultimate Christmas movies, and Christmas in New York simply isn't Christmas in New York without the Plaza. Seeing it during the holidays is like nothing you've seen before.

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This photo of the Empire State Building looks the way "River" by Joni Mitchell sounds. And I love it for that.

What's your favorite part about Christmas in New York City? Let us know on Facebook!

Taylor Swift Already "Really Wants To Do" More Concerts After The Eras Tour.

The Eras Tour is the gift that keeps on giving. Taylor Swift has been on tour since March 2023, giving us surprise songs, friendship bracelet opportunities, and a plethora of celebrity guests, and we were hoping she'd extend her concert schedule even farther. I have personally been wondering if we’ll live in Eras Tour Land until we get TS12 (after all, there IS enough space on the merch for one more era) and Taylor herself just weighed in on the rumors.

Here's everything you need to know about the end of the Eras Tour — and when we'll see Taylor Swift on tour again.

Is the Eras tour going into 2025?

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

It looks like we won't be getting a third summer of girlhood because Taylor Swift announced on June 13 that the Eras Tour will officially end in December 2024.

"This is the very first time I’ve ever acknowledged to myself and admitted that this tour is going to end in December," Taylor said before her 10-minute performance of "All Too Well" (via USA Today). "This tour has really become my entire life, it's taken over everything, like I think I once had hobbies. All I do when I'm not on stage is sit at home and try to think of clever acoustic song mashups and think about what you might want to hear."

"You have done so much to be with us," she continues. "You've made plans so far in advance. You planned what you were going to wear. You memorized lyrics. You got yourself here. You figured out parking. You figured out transportation, and I want spend the 100th show just thinking about that and living in that moment and being here with you, and just know I appreciate every single ounce of effort that you put in to be with us when this show reaches triple digits in shows. So thank you!"

Will Taylor Swift ever tour again?

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

But good news for concert lovers! Taylor is reportedly already ready to do a new concert tour. “She had such a great experience on Eras. She really wants to do it again,” a source tells Us Weekly. “She loves being with all her fans; it inspires her." But, "things can change. A lot of it hinges on what happens over the next year with Travis. She’s told her team to give her one year to see how things go in her personal life.”

I'm always down to go to a new Taylor Swift concert!

What cities is Taylor Swift bringing the Eras Tour to?

Haley Sprankle/Brit + Co

I'd love to see her visit Charlotte, North Carolina, Washington, D.C., and all the other cities she hasn't visited yet! Maybe on the next tour :').

Is The Eras Tour ending with TS12?

Taylor Swift/UMG

My personal theory is that Taylor Swift might just announce TS12 this weekend when the tour ends. The Tortured Poets Department and her supposed upcoming album seem to be part of a countdown, and since there's space on the Eras Tour merch for one more era after TTPD, I feel like we could get ANOTHER new album and set before Taylor's tour ends.

Where do you want Taylor Swift to bring the Eras Tour? Check out The Eras Tour Concert Film Is Now Streaming! to see how to watch the concert from the comfort of your couch.

This post has been updated.

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'Moana 2' Composers Barlow And Bear On Imposter Syndrome & Their Fave Disney Movies

TikTok sensations Barlow & Bear are no stranger to the spotlight. Besides the fact their Unofficial Bridgerton Musical won a Grammy (and basically broke the internet), popstar Abigail Barlow has millions of streams of her own, while Emily Bear performed in places like the White House and Carnegie Hall before turning 10.

So, it’s safe to say these two know what they’re doing. But one thing they never saw coming? Composing a Disney movie — or becoming the first female duo to do so. But that’s exactly what happened when they booked Moana 2.

Keep reading for our exclusive interview with Abigail Barlow & Emily Bear.

Barlow and Bear composed Moana 2, in theaters November 27.
They're the first female duo to compose a Disney movie and they hope the experience shows young girls "that their voices matter."
The duo also spilled on how Lin Manuel Miranda, who composed the original, "empowered" them.

How Barlow And Bear's Bond Influences Their Art

“We have such a sacred sisterhood!” Abigail tells me over email. “We met and found musical soulmates in one another. It’s more than just special. It’s a once in a lifetime connection that laid an incredibly strong foundation for creation.”

“Most of my life I’ve been the only girl in the room writing with much older people,” Emily adds. “Honestly because Abigail and I are like sisters, it creates such a safe place to be vulnerable together and create without restraint. When writing for Moana 2, we leaned on that emotional connection to explore the complexities of the story and how much we see ourselves in Moana!”

And the empowering message of the film, which follows Moana’s journey through Oceania, actually influenced their art. “Every day that I worked on Moana, I was empowered to continuously choose who I wanted to be,” Abigail says. “A leader, a listener, and a learner. In being tasked to write for this movie, I was being asked to go past my comfort zones. I think by being completely open hearted to this experience, it allowed me clarity when crafting the lyric and melody with Emily.”

“Moana 2 is a story about finding strength through vulnerability, and that message became a huge theme in the music,” Emily says. “All our characters’ journeys reminded us to embrace our imperfections and trust the process of growth — no matter how painful it may seem in the moment. Moana is THAT girl. No one defines her but herself and writing for such an inspiring heroine FOR SURE inspired us right back.”

Why Abigail Barlow And Emily Bear Loved Working On 'Moana 2'

Walt Disney Studios

But considering the fact these two women are huge Disney fans (Abigail tells me her favorite Disney movies are The Little Mermaid and Frozen, while Emily loves Hercules and Mulan), one of the most inspiring details about their involvement is the fact that Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear’s Moana 2 score marks the first time a female duo has composed a Disney movie — and it’s a moment they don’t take for granted.

“I hope this shows [young girls] that their voices matter,” Emily says. “Growing up, I barely saw people who looked like me in roles like this, so being here now feels surreal. I want girls and women to know that their stories are powerful and deserve to be told. I really hope that Abigail and I can continue to open doors for more female creatives in film and music.”

And Abigail agrees. “I hope our story encourages young girls and women to forge their own path, and to never let anyone tell them they can’t do something.”

But this unbelievable experience didn’t come without its challenges. “Imposter syndrome is so real and a part of life for every single creative, and anyone who tells you otherwise is lying,” Emily says.

“I’m just trying to enjoy the ride, trust the fall, and be so grateful for the opportunity to be a role model for any little girl who might have a song in her heart,” Abigail says. “It’s an absolute honor and privilege to show her that anything — even magic — is possible.”

And according to Emily, the challenge of imposter syndrome actually propels her forward. “I do feel like that little voice of self-doubt pushes me to do the best work I possibly can do…I zoom out and focus on the bigger picture: the little girls watching this movie and realizing they, too, can dream as big as they want.”

How Lin Manuel-Miranda Empowered Barlow And Bear

One friendly face that provided a soft place to land was actually the original movie’s composer, Lin Manuel-Miranda! To no one’s surprise, theIn The Heights and Hamilton writer had some wonderful advice for Barlow and Bear.

“He was such a wonderful resource especially at the inception of the project when we were just setting sail,” Emily jokes. “He urged us to lean into our heroes for inspiration!”

“He gave me a stack of books I needed to buy,” Abigail adds. “Finishing the Hat by Stephen Sondheim, LYRICS by Oscar Hammerstein, Lyrics on Several Occasions by Ira Gershwin to name a few. He empowered me to study the craft of musical theatre storytelling in a way I never had before.”

And thanks to Barlow and Bear, a whole new generation of young women will dream about musical theatre storytelling now too!

Check out Moana 2 in theaters November 27, 2024. Check out the latest news on the Live-Action Moana too!

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Which Christmas Movie Should You Watch Next, Based On Your Zodiac Sign

With so many new Christmas movies piling up left and right, our watch list is getting longer and longer every year. If you're having decision fatigue, just know: you're not alone! Thankfully, we can use the stars to guide us when we're feeling overwhelmed — even when it comes to what we queue up on our TVs next! So instead of letting your Christmas watch list (that's honestly longer than Santa's naughty and nice list) get you dow, here's which Christmas movie you should put on right now, based on your zodiac sign!

Scroll down to find out which Christmas movie you should watch, based on your zodiac sign!

Twentieth Century Fox | Freevee

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Die Hard

Okay, starting this list off controversially (but strong), Aries you should definitely watch Die Hard. I'm almost positive you've been headstrong enough to tell a friend (or two) that this IS a Christmas movie, actually. And TBH, I think you're right! Although it may be a little intense for the Rudolph-loving, Frosty-watching crowd, you know what it's really all about: Bruce Willis straight up saving Christmas.

EXmas

You can't help that you're charming, Aries. Your fiery personality just sticks, lighting up the room around you — even when that room is full of your ex-boyfriend's family. Oh, and when it comes to a challenge? Yeah, you never turn those down. Throw this on for a good, holiday-filled laugh...and that little bit of heart that you totally love, too.

Twentieth Century Fox | Paramount Pictures

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Home Alone

Let's face it: being home alone is honestly your dream come true. You know it, I know it, the stars know it. And while you could probably do without two goons skulking around your place, you always find a way to make your house a home, no matter the situation. If you're already picturing eating pizza in a limo, drinking Coke out of a wine glass...I'm honestly not surprised. Live that luxe life, sweet Taurus.

Last Holiday

Queen Latifah's Last Holiday is quite honestly one of the most Taurus movies of all time, TBH. Georgia Bird does everything she can to curate her life, saving money, staying home, and keeping to herself as much as possible. So when she finds out she's only got a short amount of time to live? She decides it's time to expand beyond the four walls of her home and explore life — and the world — around her. I know you love to curate your life, working hard to make it as comfortable and wonderful as possible at home, but this is a good reminder that there's so much more out there for you, dear Taurus. Chase after it!

Paramount Pictures | Netflix

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

White Christmas

The duality of Gemini is definitely best summed up with the classic Christmas movie, White Christmas. While I obviously don't subscribe to the belief that you have two personalities, two faces, or any of those other Gemini stereotypes, I do think you have the ability to juggle the many truths that life has to offer. So it makes sense that you could relate to the two couples in this film, working their butts off to save the Vermont inn (I see your work ethic, babe!) and trying to understand their feelings for one another.

Our Little Secret

Remember what I said about duality? Well this plays right into that! When Avery and Logan — former fiancés — show up to Christmas celebrations, they realize they're new significant others are actually siblings...yikes! While they attempt to hide this from the family, obviously hilarity ensues, making them question how they even ended up in this scenario in the first place. While I don't think you want to keep secrets, I do think your ability to hold space for more than one truth could definitely help you out in this scenario — but your true heart would win out in the end, just like this movie!

Universal Pictures

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

The Holiday

You've got a lotta heart, Cancer, and so does this iconic Christmas movie. The hopeless romantic in you would already love the idea of a house swap (how dreamy!) between a big U.S. city and the quaint English countryside — and when you add in the dual romances...this is just too perfect for you! You'll especially resonate with Jack Black and Kate Winslet's characters and all their absolutely adorableness.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Empathy is the name of your game, and I just know you'd understand that there's more to the Grinch than meets the eye. While he stomps around, loathing everything, you'd be able to comprehend all that loathing is the need for more loving. So when his heart grows three sizes bigger? Yeah, yours will swell too!

New Line Cinema | Netflix

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Elf

You've got a big personality, and you know it, Leo. You can't help bringing your lively energy to every space you occupy — much like Buddy! Your larger-than-life, excitable — and at times, campy — personality matches the vibe of this movie perfectly. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll consider eating spaghetti and syrup just for the gag. All around, Elf is great watch for you this holiday season!

Falling For Christmas

If you resonated with London Tipton as a little girl, this one's for you. I mean, you exude heiress energy (whether you actually are or not), so you'd definitely understand Sierra Belmont's plight. What's so wrong for wanting the finer things in life?! In all seriousness, while you could definitely relate to her princess behavior (in a much more down-to-earth, likable way of course), I also know you find joy wherever you're at — just like Sierra does after losing her memory. This cheesy watch is definitely a must for you!

Netflix | Columbia Pictures

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Love Hard

You take life pretty seriously, so it's no surprise you would take dating — and finding your 'perfect match' — with the same amount of severity. It's not to say that you don't know how to be fun and frivolous when you want to be, but you just can't help but attempt to approach life's bigger milestones with a gravity that others don't. So, like Natalie, I know you'd be shocked to find out you've been catfished...but still wonder what could be, and if they're really your other half.

Little Women (1994)

Your determination and fervor simply are Jo March, my Virgo darling. Much like our heroine, you see the world as conquerable, taking every challenge you can and totally overcoming any obstacles that dare get in your way. And while this may not exactly be a Christmas movie, I know the March girls' Christmas celebration will totally get you in the spirit!

Walt Disney Pictures | Apple TV+

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Eloise at Christmastime

You are all pretty and pink and bows and beauty, little Libra. I know you love to make everything look (and feel) perfect around you, so Eloise at Christmastime is the adorable aesthetic watch you could ever want. You get the stunning Plaza Hotel, New York City, and Eloise's eclectic princess behavior. And with Julie Andrews, Gavin Creel, Christine Baranski — what more could you ask for?!

A Charlie Brown Christmas

With aesthetics in mind, nothing is more aesthetic than this Christmas classic. I know you're totally loving the Snoopy renaissance right now, with all its cutesy glory, so A Charlie Brown Christmas is definitely the watch for you. It's a total mood setter, perfect for your next cozy night in, or to have on in the background of your impeccable holiday party I'm sure you're throwing. And that nostalgic, dreamy music? Yeah, this is totally you.

Walt Disney Pictures | Netflix

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

The Santa Clause

You've got a rich interior life, dear Scorpio, much like that of Scott Calvin — AKA Santa Claus. You like to keep things close to the chest, so if you ended up accidentally becoming Santa Claus, I just know you'd handle that precious secret like a pro. And though this definitely speaks to your ability to compartmentalize, I don't wanna discredit your soft, sweet core either. The way Scott, his son, and the whole crew find joy in the chaos that became Christmas will definitely warm your very guarded heart.

Holidate

It can be hard to let people in, so when it comes to cuffing season — and the holidays that follow — it tends to be really frustrating for you when you have to dodge all your family's pesky personal questions. So I am suuuuure you'll understand where Sloane and Jackson are coming from when they decide to pretend they're dating one year. Except the thing with committing to the bit? You might get a little swept up in it all. Definitely watch this one for a cheesy Christmas romance — and a Kristin Chenoweth moment!

Revolution Studios Distribution Company | New Line Cinema

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Christmas With The Kranks

My jet-setting Sagittarius, you are incredibly likely to pull a Kranks and 'cancel' Christmas for a nice, tropical vacation — assuming you haven't already! You can't help it, though. You dread monotony, you crave adventure, and you love to be a little (a lot) impulsive. While it may not be wise to totally cancel Christmas on your loved ones this year, why not watch the Kranks attempt it instead?

Four Christmases

I know you don't only travel, Sagittarius, but there's no denying the urge to buy a plane ticket is strong with you. Like Kate and Brad, I could totally see you having to settle for your family's many, many different Christmas celebrations after your travel plans don't pan out. But being home for the holidays doesn't have to be all bad — sometimes you've got to dig deep and understand your roots so you can better soar, sweet Sag. Instead of flying off and away from it all, sit tight and lean into your present surroundings for the greatest gift of all.

Walt Disney Pictures | Hulu

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Here's the thing, if anyone could earnestly perform with a barrage of muppets, never once skimping on the serious nature of their craft á la Michael Caine, it's you Capricorn. Your work ethic is quite literally unmatched, and while that wouldn't make you an IRL Scrooge, it could make you play one like a champ — even with Gonzo going crazy in the corner. Pop this on for a sweet, silly, sentimental Christmas movie!

Happiest Season

When you've got a plan, you're gonna put it in action to the best of your abilities. But when outside factors totally throw off your groove? Well, that's not your favorite thing in the world, Capricorn. Not that you don't know how to pivot when you need to, but some obstacles are tougher to hurdle than others — like when you plan on proposing to your girlfriend...only to find out she hasn't officially come out as queer to her family. Watch Happiest Season to understand how you can set aside your plans to meet your loved ones where they're at, and ultimately find joy somewhere in the middle.

Walt Disney Pictures | NBC

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

The Nightmare Before Christmas

You're not like other girls, Aquarius...and that's more than okay! Instead of watching something cute and cozy, opt for the edge of The Nightmare Before Christmas. Sure, it could technically be a Halloween movie, but there's Santa, presents, and a sweet message to take away at the end of the day — and that's more than enough for you!

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

If you do wanna opt for a classic, then Rudolph is the way to go. Rudolph is a wave-maker, looking to disrupt the status quo and find a better world for everyone. Instead of being stuck in what makes him different, Rudolph uses his unique gifts to light up the world around him — literally — just like you!

Universal Pictures | Warner Bros.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Love, Actually

You're a dreamer, dear Pisces, and this holiday flick will stir up your inner romantic. While each person navigates their own love lives throughout the movie, you'll fantasize about your own — whether you're currently in a relationship, or hoping to be in one. I mean is there a better quote to represent you? "It seems to me that love is everywhere. If you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around." Sobs.

Polar Express

And speaking of dreaming, I know you were curious about Santa as a little one. You wonder about the world around you, and would totally find yourself in a similar scenario where you're transported on a larger-than-life journey to find the answers about the big man from the North Pole. In the end, was it all a dream, or was it real? Regardless, you know what really matters: that you keep your heart open and just believe.

Looking for more holiday fun? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

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TBH, Heidi Klum's Lingerie Photoshoot With Her (Adult) Daughter Really Isn't That Big Of A Deal

Heidi Klum and her 20-year-old daughter, Leni, just did an adorable lingerie photoshoot for Italian brand, Intimissimi...and the internet is apparently NOT having it. The iconic supermodel posted the ad on Instagram this week, but quickly had to turn off the comments after backlash. Here's what's going on — and why it's really not a big deal, if you ask me!

See Heidi Klum and her daughter's brand new Intimissimi lingerie photoshoot!

Instagram/HeidiKlum

In a holiday-themed ad for Intimissimi, Heidi Klum and her daughter open a gift with an old-fashioned camera inside. They take turns "filming" each other in red, silky pajamas and black, lace intimates as they pose cheekily for the camera while holiday-sounding music plays in the background.

Alongside the video, there are also photo ads — one where Heidi posed alone and one where she posed with Leni. Throughout the entire campaign, there's nothing overtly sexual happening. It truly looks like a mother and daughter playing dress up with fancy, cozy lingerie and pajamas. However, that's not how everyone else seemed to feel. Page Sixreported that one user commented, “Which normal mom would pose together with her daughter in lingerie?”

See Heidi Klum & Her Daughter's Photoshoot Here!

www.instagram.com

After more of the same type of remarks, Heidi turned off the ability to comment on her post. And I have to say: Good for her!

First and foremost, Leni is a 20-year-old professional model who does this kind of thing for a living — it's not like Heidi randomly roped her child into this ad out of nowhere. They both did a similar campaign for Intimissimi back in Octoberand May, so it's not even like this ad in particular is unprecedented. And while one comment on Leni's post reads, "Being close with your mom is one thing but posing in your underwear for photographers and the media together is odd," it's not like there was enough backlash for her to turn off the comments completely.

Second of all, Leni is a consenting adult. She makes her own choices based on her own agency! Why are we taking that away from her and acting like it's odd for her to make this modeling choice?

Finally, it's a cheeky – and sweet — reminder of growing up and learning about womanhood alongside our own mothers. My mom helped me pick out my own first training bra at Limited Too (I know, I'm old), taking me to Aerie and Victoria's Secret as I got older, and shaping my own views of intimate wear from the very beginning. So it really doesn't strike me as weird that this mother-daughter model duo would pose together in their own intimate wear. If it was overtly sexual, this would be a totally different story — but it simply is not.

What do you think? Is it weird that Heidi posed with her daughter in a lingerie ad? Or is it harmless? Let us know in the comments!

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