Academy Awards predictions, actor Michael B. Jordan's performance debate, common cinematic tropes, the craft of food styling for film, and Hollywood's adaptation of Colleen Hoover's novels are central to discussions in the film world.

• Michael B. Jordan Is a Star. But Is He a Great Actor? — New York Times Arts -
• Prediction Markets? An 83% Chance That Oscars Pundits Hate Them. — New York Times Arts -
• Prediction Markets? An 83% Chance That Oscars Pundits Hate Them. — New York Times Arts -

• How Not to Become the ‘Dead Wife in a Movie’ Trope — New York Times Arts -
• What to Watch for at the 2026 Oscars: Best Actor Race, Conan O’Brien and More — New York Times Arts -
• How Food Stylist Olivia Somary Makes Onscreen Meals Look Delicious — New York Times Movies -
• From ‘It Ends With Us’ to ‘Reminders of Him,’ How Colleen Hoover Captured Hollywood — New York Times Arts -

The passing of influential philosopher Jürgen Habermas and author Margareta Magnusson, a review of Charlotte Wood's 'The Natural Way of Things', and Mahmood Mamdani's upcoming book on Gaza mark significant events in the literary and intellectual sphere.

• Jürgen Habermas Dies at 96; One of Postwar Germany’s Most Influential Thinkers — New York Times Arts -
• Book Review: ‘The Natural Way of Things,’ by Charlotte Wood — New York Times Books -
• Mahmood Mamdani, Father of NYC Mayor, Is Writing a Book on Gaza — New York Times Books -

• Margareta Magnusson,91, Dies; Wrote of Cleaning Up Before Dying — New York Times Arts -

Gorillaz's 'The Mountain' album and their artistic philosophy, new music from Kacey Musgraves and the Pussycat Dolls, and comedian Mae Martin's current tour highlight the dynamic landscape of contemporary music and live performance.

• Gorillaz on ‘The Mountain’ and Celebrating Lost Musicians — New York Times Arts -
• Kacey Musgraves, the Pussycat Dolls: 8 Songs We’re Talking About This Week — New York Times Arts -
• On the Road, Primal Screams Optional, With Mae Martin — New York Times Arts -

Mark Rothko's artistic inspiration from Florence sheds light on historical influences, while New York's real table tennis champion Yasiris Ortiz showcases local athletic achievement and community engagement.

• The City That Inspired Rothko (It’s Not New York) — New York Times Arts -
• Forget ‘Marty Supreme.’ Meet the Real Table Tennis Champion of New York. — New York Times Arts -