In my review of Project Hail Mary, I spend about a third of the article arguing that the blockbuster hit is “quintessentially metamodern.” Huh? If the word metamodernism makes you go crosseyed, I feel you. That was me just a few years ago. But as I’ve learned more about what “metamodernism” as a label is trying to categorize, I’ve found it both accurate and helpful.

You may have seen headlines about “vibe shifts.” It’s something I’ve written about. Metamodernism is a helpful tool for unpacking what exactly is shifting, and what the aesthetics and values of the new “vibe” might be. Far from an esoteric academic taxonomy, the discussion about metamodernism is quite practical for anyone interested in understanding the cultural moment and correctly “reading the room.”

That’s why I decided to lead a new cohort at TGC on the topic. For five weeks starting May 28, I’ll guide participants through a crash course in metamodernism by looking at movies as a case study. If you or someone you know might be interested, registration is now open for Metamodernism 101: How Movies Help Us See a Cultural Shift. I can offer discount codes for students, prospective attendees from outside the U.S., and other special circumstances. DM me on social media if you’re interested.

I hope to meet you in the cohort!