Some weeks feel like a blur, but Fridays? Fridays are for good things. Whether it’s a movie that makes you laugh, a song that stirs your soul, or a plan to steal an extra day off work, the Friday Five is here to kickstart your weekend with all the feels, all the vibes and all the inspiration you didn’t know you needed. Let’s dive in!
Johannesburg, South Africa (17 January 2025) – Welcome to The Friday Five, your ultimate guide to the good things making waves in movies, series, music, and life right now.
This weekly feature is one of my absolute favourites – it’s where I get to share all the lekker recommendations I’ve been loving. Whether you’re planning a chilled weekend or just need a little spark of joy, this list has you covered. So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s dive into the magic.
🎬 Movies to Watch Now:
If you’re a superhero fan who loves a good laugh and doesn’t mind a bit of chaos, “Venom: The Last Dance” might be exactly what you’re looking for this weekend. It’s not the kind of movie that’s trying to win awards or redefine the genre – it knows its lane and sticks to it.
Packed with quirky one-liners and over-the-top action sequences, this film is unapologetically entertaining.
It’s silly in all the right ways and just serious enough to keep you invested. Sometimes, you don’t need a cinematic masterpiece; you just need a fun, popcorn-fuelled escape from reality – and this movie delivers exactly that.
Now showing in cinemas and available to rent on AppleTV, Google TV, and PRIME.
Where do I even begin with Gladiator 2? This sequel doesn’t just meet expectations – it obliterates them. From the very first frame, the film draws you into the grandeur of ancient Rome, a world where honour, revenge and loyalty collide in a breathtakingly powerful story.
Visually, Gladiator 2 is nothing short of stunning. The attention to detail in every scene – from the sprawling Roman arenas to the intimate character moments – is a feast for the eyes. But it’s not just the visuals that shine. The story carries an emotional weight that grips your heart and refuses to let go. The themes of legacy, sacrifice, and redemption are woven into every moment, making it impossible not to feel invested.
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Now showing in cinemas and available to rent on AppleTV, Google TV, and PRIME. Do yourself a favour and make this a must-watch. You won’t regret it.
🍿 Series You Need to Binge:
If you haven’t watched Severance yet, consider this your sign to stop everything and dive in. This AppleTV+ series is one of the most thought-provoking and unique shows to hit our screens in recent years. It takes the concept of work-life balance to a whole new level – quite literally.
The story revolves around Lumon Industries, a mysterious corporation where employees undergo a radical procedure that surgically splits their memories into two separate lives: one for work and one for personal life. By day, they’re hyper-focused professionals, oblivious to the world outside the office. By night, they return to their personal lives with no memory of the hours spent at work.
But as you can imagine, this “perfect balance” starts to unravel in the most thrilling, chilling ways.
Season 1 was nothing short of a masterpiece. It’s gripping, mysterious and laced with moments that make you question everything. The layers of storytelling are so intricately woven that every episode leaves you desperate for more.
And guess what? The wait for Season 2 is over! The first episode dropped today and it’s already proving that the second season is set to push boundaries even further. Without giving away any spoilers, let me just say that the twists and turns are only getting more intense.
Medical dramas have long been a cornerstone of great TV but The Pitt is poised to raise the bar and redefine the genre. I had the privilege of watching the first two episodes and let me tell you – this show doesn’t just have potential, it’s practically screaming, “Future classic!” If the rest of the series delivers what these episodes promise, The Pitt could very well be the standout drama of 2025.
What I think makes The Pitt truly special is its ability to connect. The characters feel real, their struggles relatable and their triumphs genuinely uplifting. And it also stars Noah Wyle, who you may remember from “ER”. Like the OG of medical dramas!
For South African audiences, this one’s a must-watch. It’s coming to our screens soon, and trust me—you’re going to want to be on this bandwagon early. Get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even hold your breath a little. The Pitt is about to take over your watchlist and I couldn’t be more excited for you to experience it.
It’s official! The announcement I’ve been eagerly waiting for dropped yesterday – Daredevil: Born Again is set to premiere on Disney+ on 4 March 2025! This series marks the return of one of Marvel’s most complex and captivating heroes, and honestly, I couldn’t be more excited.
For those who haven’t yet met Matt Murdock, here’s the lowdown: By day, he’s a brilliant lawyer fighting for justice in the courtroom who happens to be blind. By night, he transforms into Daredevil, a vigilante who takes on the city’s darkest threats using his heightened senses and sheer determination. The upcoming series plunges us back into Matt’s gritty world, where he’s not only facing street-level villains but also the looming shadow of his nemesis, Wilson Fisk – better known as the Kingpin.
If you’re new to Daredevil, don’t worry – you’ve got time to catch up. The original three seasons, widely praised for their intense storytelling and unforgettable action, are available to stream (on Disney+) now. Trust me, they’re worth the watch.
🎶 Songs to Add to Your Playlist:
Music lovers, this week’s lineup is Pure Gold! Whether you’re dancing in your kitchen or soaking up some quiet time, these tracks are guaranteed to bring a little extra magic to your day. Here’s what I’ve been loving.
Aloe Blacc never misses when it comes to delivering feel-good anthems, and “One Good Thing” is no exception. This uplifting track radiates positivity and has that irresistible toe-tapping beat that makes you want to get up and move. Whether you’re tackling your to-do list or just need a burst of energy, this song will have you smiling in no time.
Dean Lewis is the king of heartfelt ballads, and “With You” might just be one of his best. It’s raw, emotional, and beautifully simple—the kind of song that pulls at your heartstrings and reminds you of the power of connection. If you’re in the mood for something deeply moving, this is the track for you.
This one’s a vibe, plain and simple. “Same Old Song” combines the nostalgic storytelling The Lumineers are known for with a fresh, edgy twist that feels very Killers-esque. It’s both familiar and new, making it perfect for those moments when you want to lose yourself in music that just gets you.
And here’s the best part – I’ve now curated all these gems into a playlist on Apple Music! So if you’re looking for good vibes and soulful sounds to accompany your day, give it a spin. (Apologies to my Spotify peeps, but I’m team Apple.) Trust me, you’ll want these tracks on repeat all weekend.
🏖️ Still Dreaming of Dezemba Vibes? Let’s Maximise Your 2025 Leave
Who doesn’t love a good holiday? Whether you’re craving a family road trip, a getaway with friends, or just some quality me-time, our annual holiday planner is here to help you make the most of 2025’s public holidays.
With a little planning, you can turn long weekends into extended breaks and squeeze every ounce of joy out of your leave days.
Here’s how you can stretch those precious holidays.
❤️ One More Thing:
If you were obsessed with Laguna Beach or The Hills back in the day (like I was), then here’s a throwback worth your attention: Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag are making waves again, but this time, it’s for something far more emotional.
The couple tragically lost their home in the devastating LA fires, a heartbreaking blow that left them starting over from scratch.
But their story has turned into something truly inspiring.
Fans from around the world have rallied together to support them, showing an outpouring of love and generosity that’s nothing short of remarkable. What started as a small online campaign quickly has grown into a global movement, with people sharing their story and lending a helping hand in every way possible.
And then, something even more unexpected happened!
Heidi Montag’s 2010 album, Superficial, has skyrocketed to the top of the charts! This album, a passion project from a decade ago, has found new life thanks to fans streaming it in droves. Even celebrities like Paris Hilton have jumped on board, sharing Heidi’s music and encouraging others to do the same.
If you want to catch all the action, then head over to TikTok, where all the magic is unfolding. They’re documenting their journey, sharing heartfelt updates, and letting their fans be a part of their comeback story. It’s raw, real, and a beautiful reminder of how humanity shines brightest in moments of crisis.
There you have it – this week’s Friday Five. From epic movies to binge-worthy series and feel-good tunes, there’s plenty to dive into. The world is full of good things, and it’s up to us to find and celebrate them. So go on, make the most of your weekend, and remember: every small joy adds up to something truly great.
by 
