As we head into the new year, I think it’s important to look back. Back on a year of feats and failures, as individuals and as a society. Not in a particularly reflective insightful way, but more in a way of; Did Kim K really say that?

Today, I’ll be the judge and go through the most trending topics of 2021 and decide whether they were Overrated, Underrated, or Justified. 

Crypto

Cryptocurrency boomed in 2021. Prior to 2021, Bitcoin was the only crypto coin I could name off the topic of my head. Now, we’ve got entire sports arenas named after the phenomena. Many argue that crypto is the way of the future, while others still can’t wrap their heads around the idea of a non-physical coin. Whether you’re on the crypto train or not, it’s officially been adopted into the mainstream as of 2021, with Matt Damon being the face of cryptocurrency, it’s no longer confined to the corners of the internet.

I would rule cryptocurrency: Justified, however, I would say it’s Underrated in the sense that we should all stop the excuses and start educating ourselves on the topic.

Squid Game

Squid Game already feels like a fever dream, and it’s only been a few months. Squid Game became the most streamed show ever on Netflix, after its release in 2021. I find that hard to believe based on how gore-y and intense the show is. You wouldn’t think everyone would be down with that but hey, 2021 has been full of surprises. I work at an elementary school, and at the peak of popularity, I would hear grade 3’s singing that Squid Game tune. The obsession with this show was so random and sudden. There were no big Hollywood stars in it, no hype leading up to the release, but all of a sudden everyone and their dog was watching Squid Game.

The South Korean Netflix series’ popularity even led to some controversy. A Korean influencer, Youngmi Mayer pointed out the “botched” subtitles that changed the show’s meaning – erasing cultural nuance, missing metaphors and Korean idioms. Public figures like Chrissy Teigen and Mr. Beast were prime examples of misunderstanding the narrative.

Egregiously wealthy people recreating a show about egregiously wealthy people exploiting the poor is more than a little ironic.

I’m going to go with Overrated. Not at the fault of the show and it’s creators, rather what America has done to it.

Covid Themed Things – Greys Anatomy, comedy specials, marketing campaigns and so forth

Something really bothers me about Covid, pandemic themed media. I know it’s supposed to be relatable and comforting, but honestly, when I’m watching TV I’m trying to escape the pandemic, not be reminded of it.

I find most of it extremely predictable and annoying. Complaining about wearing a mask and how you’re secretly wearing pyjamas on Zoom isn’t quirky or funny. It’s kind of an equivalent to Facebook mom memes. Relatabiltiy can’t be the only punchline.

Overrated I hate this trend is depressing and I’m over it.

Working from Home

This topic definitely divides people, and it’s not as simple as introverted v. extroverted. With Omicron causing a surge in cases, many schools and workplaces in Canada returned to an online platform. For BCIT Radio Arts & Entertainment students we were given a choice, with hybrid learning – Live streamed classes from campus where students have the opportunity to return to the classroom or participate through Zoom.

I’m personally, a Zoomer. I can see both sides to the argument, and I do at times miss the social aspects of school. Here’s my thinking though,

• Saves time, approx. 1 hour of commuting, I can use to do work
• Saves money – Gas, food, parking
• No risk of Covid exposure
• No reason to skip class – Even if I’m tired and out of it, I can still manage to click a Zoom link.
• And of course, I can be in my pyjamas 😉

I think working from home is Underrated. I love my classmates and teachers but I like my pyjamas and cat more.

No, but for real, I genuinely want to keep my family safe and with covid cases soaring it’s not a risk I want to take if I don’t have to.

Early 2000s Revival

Lowrise jeans, juicy tracksuits, Bennifer 2.0 and #FreeBritney are all examples of the early 2000’s renaissance in 2021. In a time of such discomfort and complexity, I believe we found comfort in the nostalgic early 2000s.

https://www.tiktok.com/@teabby/video/7044955436784651566?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id6924475655456376325

I have mixed feelings here. One part of me loves how people are having fun with fashion, bright colours, sparkles and pop music #sliving (your best life)

But then there’s the other part of me that’s over it. The early 2000’s weren’t all glitter and glam. It’s also notable for the blatant misogyny in the media, think back to Britney Spears, the promotion eating disorders and failure to recognize black creatives and artists.

I don’t know, I’m at a toss up here… what do you think? Justified in that It can be fun and playful, but Overrated because I don’t like some of the connotation the movement can carry. Thing is, If it was fun and playful for everyone, I would say Underrated, but clearly its not. Let me know your thoughts!

Air Fryers

At first I wasn’t convinced by the whole air fryer obsession. It’s kind of just an oven, right? I was so wrong. This is not a paid sponsorship, I promise. Air Fryers are awesome. Not even in a diet-y less calories way. Mostly because I’m lazy and impatient. I hate cleaning up oil and waiting for my oven to preheat. Boom! Both problems solved with an air fryer. Sure, the health aspect is nice but most of all, I can have frozen spring rolls perfectly crispy and ready in under 10 minutes.

@healthysimpleyum

For those getting an #airfryer this Christmas! #airfryerrecipes #airfryertiktok #veganrecipes #kitchenhacks #plantbasedtiktok #kitchentips #jackfruit

♬ Own Brand Freestyle – FelixThe1st & Dreya Mac

I honestly feel bad for my friends who haven’t been indoctrinated into the air fryer cult. The fact that not every house has one, atests to the fact its Underrated. I’d trade my microwave and toaster for an air fryer any day.