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In spring movieThe Greatest Hits, Harriet loves vinyls — just like actress Lucy Boynton! "At home, I have a turntable," Lucy tells me. "My dad got me this really cool red record player, so it's like my pride and joy. And my dad and I — music has been the center of our relationship, so he's been giving me loads of his old vinyls since getting it. And the sound quality on vinyl is like nothing else. You hear the crunch of what it was supposed to be, and the sound in the room. So, yeah, that's where my heart is."
She's currently listening to Sam Cooke, but there's another artist who has a special place in her heart: Bob Dylan.
"Dylan's lyrics throughout the history of his career have spoken to young people and their restlessness," she says. "I remember always knowing that and enjoying his music aesthetically, and then hearing 'The Times They Are A-Changin'' when I was in my late teens. In that restlessness when you're trying to be a full person, you feel like an adult, but you're obviously still so young and so in denial of that. And I heard the lyrics to that and just felt so seen and...suddenly it's like I have someone far more eloquent than myself articulating exactly how I feel."
The same can be said for contemporary artists like Beyoncé, Olivia Rodrigo, and Taylor Swift, whose music consistently tops charts because it makes listeners feel seen. And in The Greatest Hits, music isn't just an emotional experience, it's a physical one too.
What is The Greatest Hits about?
Image via Searchlight Pictures
The Greatest Hits follows Lucy Boynton's Harriet, who can travel back in time by listening to specific songs — and who's hunting for the one track that will help her save her late boyfriend. Think of it like About Time with some of the relationship devastation that comes from A Walk To Remember. (For her part, Lucy was inspired by everything from Like Crazy to My Girl to The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion). This movie has got everything you need from a good rom-com: incredible actors, memorable makeup from Euphoria's Donni Davy, and quirky details like a silent disco and the fact Harriet always wears headphones.
But the movie is also incredibly grounded. While Harriet is focused on her past relationship, a brand new one begins to blossom in the present, throwing an unexpected (if welcome) wrench in Harriet's plans. As a self-proclaimed "nostalgic, sentimental person," Lucy Boynton says The Greatest Hits made her think about living in the present in a whole new way.
"I knew it was better to live present and forward-looking," she says. "But this job calls for you to be so in tune with your past and feelings, and it's so useful when you can draw from your own experience. So I kind of kept one foot in the past deliberately...seeing the way that prohibits Harriet from being aware of what's happening in her present tense because you just miss opportunities. Something that could catch your eye if you're open to it won't happen if your peripheral is clouded by the past."
"I think it's such a temptation, I don't know how I would be able to resist if given the opportunity to go back," she continues. "But I don't know that it's fate so much as relinquishing the power. Where it's like, you don't know what the other road looked like...You don't know what option B was and yeah, something terrible could have happened [but] you might not know the people that you know now. And so I think as painful as things can [be], I don't know any other road and I would choose the safety of the road I know now and can learn from."
Who's in The Greatest Hits cast?
Image via Searchlight Pictures
In The Greatest Hits, Lucy stars opposite Justin H. Min and David Corenswet. She's worked with Will Poulter on Why Didn't They Ask Evans and Emma Watson on Ballet Shoes, but in 2023, she also had a role in the biggest movie of the year: Barbie!
While we only see her onscreen for a brief moment, Lucy says being a doll in Weird Barbie's (Kate McKinnon) house was a dream. "It was wild just to be in the room with those brains," she says. "It's undeniable. Greta is brilliant, but Kate McKinnon is a comedic genius...Just like hearing her riff, hearing her improv line after line was heaven. It was like being front row at SNL or something, and that's the joy of being on any kind of set. It's the experience in the moment. So yeah, that was a comedy show that I loved."
Lucy's also looking to the future and would "just love to be in anything written by Michaela Coel," she tells me. "I think she's an extraordinary, completely unique voice. And just brilliant. So, yeah, anything penned by her. I think Andrea Riseborough is a really extraordinary actress, Brit Marling. You know, the list is extensive."
Rapid Fire With The Greatest Hits' Lucy Boynton
Image via Searchlight Pictures
Brit + Co: I love seeing all the dates Harriet goes on with her new love interest David. What's your idea of the perfect date?
Lucy Boynton: I think anything that's spontaneous. My best dates and my best memories have been days that [have] just unraveled as you go along them.
B+C: As much as I love dates, I also love having nothing to do. When was the last time you canceled plans?
LB: Embarrassingly recently. I feel like this press tour has kept me in line and kept me in check with the schedule. But it'll probably be tomorrow.
B+C: What is your on-set must-have?
LB: A book and mints because you're in really close proximity with people. So mints are a must-have and then a book because you're inevitably waiting around between set changes and it's always longer than you think it's going to be.
B+C: What is on your summer 2024 bucket list?
LB: Say yes to more things. I think, especially in a freelance job, it's really easy to want to keep the window open for any work that comes up. And I'm trying to be better at taking the reins on my own life and saying yes to more opportunities with friends and family. So honestly, just like a holiday. I'm going to go on holiday.
B+C: We've talked so much about nostalgia, is there anything particular you miss from the pre-smartphone era?
LB: Oh my God, yes. Not being cross eyed and glued to [your phone], I think. Just that thing of like, when you're waiting for someone, just being in your environment. And I know when you're young, that's for some reason humiliating, to look like you're not doing anything. But when it was just looking up and looking around, whereas when I have a beat [now], I'm probably looking at my phone and that's just horrific.
Where can I watch The Greatest Hits?
Image via Searchlight Pictures
You can stream The Greatest Hits on Hulu now.
Where was The Greatest Hits filmed?
Image via Searchlight Pictures
Principal photography for The Greatest Hits took place in 2022 around Los Angeles, California. Specific locations include Echo Park, Silver Lake, Chinatown, and Venice Beach! If you ask me, this is even more of an excuse to take an LA trip in 2024 ;).
Would you go back in time if given the chance? Let us know on Facebook! Stream The Greatest Hits now and check out all the May Movies you can see next month.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Lead image via Searchlight Pictures
If you're a Taylor Swift fan, then you probably know about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian's history. What started as Kanye West interrupting Taylor's acceptance speech at the 2009 VMAs — a moment that altered the course of pop culture history — spiraled into a very public feud that gave us Reputation and always seems to reappear in a new form. And after the release of The Tortured Poets Department, Swifties think we've got another piece of the puzzle with Taylor's new song "thanK you aIMee."
In true Taylor fashion, the popstar actually hinted at the song in October 2023 when she wore a $24 clip from Anthropologie called the "Aimee" clip! She loves to add all kinds of clues and references within her outfits, and I love that this one is so affordable. Here's everything you need to know. Don't forget to check out Every Pop Culture Reference In Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department.
Is "thanK you aIMee" actually about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian?
Image via Big Machine Records/YouTube
There is plenty of evidence suggesting "thanK you aIMee" is about Kim Kardashian & Taylor Swift. The first and most obvious is that the title of the song only has three letters capitalized: "KIM." The song talks about "Aimee" (who Taylor admits actually has a different name in real life), a bully figure who beats Taylor's spirit "black and blue."
In the summer of 2016, Kanye West (Kim's husband at the time) released his song "Famous," in which he takes total credit for Taylor's fame following the 2009 VMAs incident. Taylor claimed she never gave him permission to call her a bitch in the song, a video leak from Kim seemed to show the opposite (the video turned out to be edited). At the time, Kim even told GQ that “[Taylor] totally knew that that was coming out. She wanted to all of a sudden act like she didn’t.”
#TaylorSwiftIsOverParty started trending on Twitter, Taylor Swift deleted all social media and stopped doing interviews for three years, then returned with a vengeance on the "Look What You Made Me Do" music video in 2017. The video starts off with a zombie Taylor burying the "nicer" version of herself.
Taylor Swift's "thanK you aIMee" mentions "It wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take." If you ask me, it definitely sounds like a reference to the music video and maybe even Kim's interviews.
Why does "thanK you aIMee" have random capital letters?
Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images
Taylor Swift loves hiding clues in her titles, lyrics, and messages. And historically, she's hidden words by using random capital letters. That means "thanK you aIMee" is supposed to draw our eyes to "KIM."
The Lyrics To "thanK you aIMee"
Image via Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS
Verse 1: When I picture my hometown // There's a bronze spray-tanned statue of you // And a plaque underneath it // That threatens to push me down the stairs at our school
Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I dreamed that, one day, I could say
Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I can't forgive the way you made me feel // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal
Verse 2: And it wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take
Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I prayed that, one day, I could say
Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images
Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I couldn't wait to show you it was real // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // I pushed each boulder up the hill // Your words are still just ringing in my head, ringing in my head
Verse 3: I wrote a thousand songs that you find uncool // I built a legacy, which you can't undo // But when I count the scars, there's a moment of truth // That there wouldn't be this if there hadn't been you
Bridge: And maybe you've reframed it // And in your mind, you never beat my spirit black and blue // I don't think you've changed much // And so I changed your name and any real defining clues // And one day, your kid comes home singin' // A song that only us two is gonna know is about you, 'cause
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, it was all for nothin' // And our town, it looks so small from way up here // Screamed, "Thank you, Aimee" to the night sky and the stars are stunnin' // 'Cause I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // So I pushed each boulder up that hill // Your words were still just ringin' in my head, ringin' in my head
Outro: Thank you, Aimee // Thank you, Aimee
Do you think "thanK you aIMee" is referencing the feud between Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian? After you listen again, check out All Of Taylor Swift's Albums, Ranked!
Lead images via Dimitrios Kambouris/Monica Schipper/Getty Images
We know that Taylor just released The Tortured Poets Department, sending the internet (and us) into a frenzy to decipher her lyrics and determine who is the subject of each song (we're looking at you, Matty). But we’re still stuck on her last album, Midnights — and more specifically, "Lavender Haze." While we're still obsessed with that song — especially the acoustic version — we're even more obsessed with the shade of purple itself.
Lavender took over the 2023 spring/summer fashion shows, but lavender’s lighter cousin, lilac, is taking the crown as the costar of the season alongside butter yellow this year. This pastel shade has always been a springtime favorite, and it's honestly the perfect color to add to your wardrobe right now. With that in mind, here are a few on-trend pieces to add to your wardrobe to enjoy this season’s fave color.
Shop The Lilac Color Trend Here!
J.Crew Collection Layered Sequin T-Shirt
This sequined top and matching skirt from J.Crew could be my favorite set I’ve seen this season. The top is a sheer and shimmery short-sleeve with a matching colored camisole underneath. The shirt comes with a shorter liner for a fun and flirty evening look, without showing too much skin. Both pieces come in lilac and are covered in light-reflecting sequins.
Coach Jonie Bag
An easy way to incorporate a new color is through accessories, like shoes, jewelry, or bags. I adore Coach, and I'm always checking their website and socials for their latest drop. I’ve been eyeing this purple Jonie Bag for a while and it might be time to click “order.”
Abercrombie Textured Button-Through Shirt Dress
This loose and airy short-sleeve mini dress from Abercrombie is perfect for hot summer days in the office or running errands. Available in petite, regular, and tall, there’s a length for everyone. Pair with flats and a light jacket or blazer for an easy and cool office look.
GAP Mid Rise Crinkle Gauze Wide-Leg Pants
I practically live in linen pants once the temp hits 70 degrees. This style is a "breathable cotton" and comes in a variety of colors, including lilac. These are effortless and easy to throw on with an elastic waistband. I'd love to see them with a graphic tee and sambas!
Abercrombie Ottoman Slash Top
I’m a huge fan of the Ottoman tops from Abercrombie, and this lilac one is in my shopping cart as we speak. This fitted sweater top is a closet staple and easy to pair with linen trousers and sneakers or a mini skirt and heeled sandals.
Urban Outfitters Bri Double Bow Satin Mini Dress
As someone who is obsessed with bows, this lilac dress with bow straps is too cute. I’ll be wearing this satin mini all summer long.
H&M Open-Back Gathered Top
With a variety of purple, lavender, and lilac shades — and a just bit of yellowy orange — this tie-dye-inspired tank is the perfect going out top for spring and summer. The gathered seams on the side provide a great shape and the open back is perfect for a hot summer night.
Adidas Sambas OG
As someone who is getting bored of plain, white sneakers, I am seriously considering adding a colorful tennis shoe to my (overflowing) closet. Adidas Sambas are everywhere right now, and this purple pair is so cool.
J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt In Striped Cotton Poplin
This everyday button down shirt is a classic from J.Crew, but the color and print make it feel fresh and new. This top is perfect with white trousers and white sneakers for a cute and casual daytime outfit or with black trousers and pumps for an office-ready look.
Lululemon Varsity High-Rise Pleated Tennis Skirt
Even Lululemon is into lilac. This trendy tennis skirt, which comes in a variety of colors, is now available in lilac. Designed for tennis but also perfect for all your Hot Girl and Wine Walks, this fun and bright skirt will make any workout better.
Banana Republic Ariella Taffeta Midi Dress
Midi dresses are the best for summer — they’re comfortable, easy to throw on, and always look cute. This purple one from Banana Republic is no exception, and would be a perfect pick for your next vacay.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
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