Morning Brew - 🎬 Movie night

You can count on some things to show up every year: LeBron in the NBA Finals, a new Fast & Furious movie, and of course a few new “best workplace” lists. They come out like clockwork from publications like Fortune and Forbes, showcasing the places we really oughta be working (if only we could get the job).

So, what does a “best” workplace look like when the entire work environment is restructuring in the wake of a pandemic? Newsweek took a shot recently with its “most loved workplaces” list, citing connection to the workplace, teamwork, opportunities for advancement, and public service initiatives as criteria for inclusion. After reading through this list, what’s clear to me is that what’s “most loved” is complicated. Several of the companies on Newsweek’s list, such as Instacart and Kellogg’s, have had employees and contractors strike this year over unfair practices and low compensation. The Newsweek list is not the only place where the tried-and-true adages about work are no longer accurate.

Wall Street Journal reporter Alex Janin, who wrote a detailed piece on finding a family-friendly workplace, shared some tips on finding the workplace of your dreams in a recent Twitter thread inspired by her reporting. Her advice includes heavily researching companies, asking the right questions during your interview, and reading between the lines of the company’s website and social media posts to see which benefits aren’t explicitly mentioned. Whether you’re looking for a workplace that offers work-life balance, fun self-care perks, or the latest tech, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the benefits that are important to you before accepting an offer.

As we move through this time of great resignations, union building, and striking, employers will need to better their workplaces not through a one-size-fits-all approach, but by allowing employees to decide what’s important to them at work.

Let’s be honest, not many of us are itching to get back into the movie theater. With that in mind...and Dune still readily available to watch on HBO Max...this lineup of products will help you get your home set up just right.

• For the scary movie lover who has seen it all, a Shudder subscription provides access to a constantly growing selection of new releases and horror classics that will keep them on their toes.
• If you’ve become notorious for falling asleep in the middle of movie night, make your slumber more comfortable with a cozy throw blanket.
• The biggest difference between your home and the movie theater? The sound quality. Pick up a streaming soundbar for under $100 that’ll give your home viewing experience true surround sound.
• We get it, your back hurts. Prioritize your comfort over everything with a plush back pillow that’ll fit comfortably on the couch.

Read: Make the most of your weeknights and weekends with the help of Girls’ Night In, a cozy newsletter dedicated to maximizing your downtime. Last week’s popcorn-themed edition has revolutionized our feelings about the crunchy snack.

Listen: Spin the globe in search of great music with a site that lets users tune into local radio stations around the world.

Watch: Come along as YouTuber and solo traveler Damon Dominique searches for love in Romania in his travel pilot that’s accurately titled Around the World in 80 Dates. (Give the man a show already, Netlfix!!)

Avoid paying $20 for stale popcorn with this list of deliciously unique movie night snacks.

• Existing at the intersection of sweet and sour is this candy mix that features some of my fruity favorites, gummy style.
• Cook your kernels to perfection with a microwavable bowl that makes nine cups of popcorn, the perfect amount for sharing.
• Step up your popcorn game and invest in popcorn seasonings. I’m currently eyeing this fiery blend from The Spice House.
• Take your bartender hat off for the night and relax with a ready-to-drink margarita instead.
• End the night on a high note with a classic dessert that’ll be ready to eat about an hour after making, thanks to this handy tool.