Entertainment RX: Cancer Care and Worries for a Gender-Fluid Grandchild

Entertainment RX: A Column by Matthew Gilbert

Matthew Gilbert’s column offers insights and recommendations for navigating the complex landscape of contemporary entertainment, especially in relation to personal issues and societal changes. This week’s correspondence addresses a grandparent’s struggle to support their nonbinary grandchild while grappling with societal concerns.

Response Highlights:

1. Emotional Support:

   • The writer emphasizes the importance of love and acceptance for the grandchild, despite personal challenges. Being open about struggles is a step towards support.

2. Resources & Guidance:

   • The column encourages understanding through education, suggesting the reader learn about gender terms and concepts to better support their family.

3. Song Recommendations:

   • Music can be a comforting guide, and recommendations include:
     • Rihanna’s “Umbrella”
     • Lou Reed’s “I’ll Be Your Mirror”
     • Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors”
     • Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way”

4. Film and TV Suggestions:

   • “I Wish You All the Best” (2025): A coming-of-age story about a nonbinary character’s journey.
   • “Billions”: Features the nonbinary character Taylor, showcasing a rich storyline beyond identity.
   • “Better Things”: Follows a young girl exploring gender identity in an authentic way.
   • “The Big C”: A comedy-drama about navigating life after a cancer diagnosis that might resonate on personal levels.

5. Cultural Context:

   • The mention of historical literary references such as Virginia Woolf’s “Orlando” highlights the ongoing discourse about gender fluidity and identity.

Overall, the column acts as both a comforting embrace and a guide through the evolving understanding of gender identity, while providing access to cultural touchstones that may serve as both distraction and enlightenment.

For readers facing similar challenges, it underscores the significance of empathy and the celebration of individual identities against societal pressures.

Note: You can reach out with your own questions to Matthew Gilbert for personalized advice on entertainment and life’s challenges.