This year has done its best imitation of 2020 just two weeks in, as political division has plagued the front end of 2021. It is more important now than ever that we give ourselves something to look forward to — no matter the scale. 

The film industry suffered a gargantuan blow last March when just about everything shut down due to the Coronavirus outbreak. With optimism surrounding the pandemic going into this year, it’s expected that we see something closer to normalcy when it comes to movies and the in-theater experience. Netflix alone announced over 70 original pictures are set to hit the service throughout the course of this year. Outside of home-streaming services we await films such as A Quiet Place Part II, Space Jam 2, Top Gun: Maverick, and Fast and Furious 9.  

Several high-profile artists are expected to drop brand–new projects this year as well. Travis Scott’s “Utopia”, Drake’s “Certified Lover Boy”, Lana Del Rey’s “Chemtrails Over the Country Club”, and Billie Eilish (TBA) headline a long list of highly anticipated releases in 2021. 

The COVID-19 vaccine’s distribution, however, is likely the most anticipated thing 2021 has to offer. In late December of last year, healthcare workers in close contact with infected patients were able to receive the Pfizer and Moderna doses following FDA approval. According to infectious disease experts, optimistically, the 2021 vaccination distribution is as follows: From February to March, the vaccine supply will have increased, given to long-term care facility staff and residents and essential workers lower on the prioritization list. March to July is the time frame in which the vaccine is likely to become available to the general public. 

We all have high hopes for 2021 to be the year of recovery from the abomination that 2020 turned out to be. However, a lot of the fate of this year lies in our own hands. To see the good in a time of distress is more valuable than anything a year can throw at you. Whether it be a new movie, and new album, or being vaccinated, the small victories are what’s important in 2021.