December 2024 / January 2025 Issue
Feature
Meet the People Who Make Boston Movies Happen
They’ve cast more than 140 films. He coordinated The Instigators’ chase scene. She used to be Ben Affleck’s personal chef. Eight industry professionals responsible for Massachusetts’ cinematic magic.
The Greater Boston Eviction Crisis Will Hurt You, Too
Skyrocketing rents are displacing the essential workers who staff our hospitals, support our universities, and operate our hotels and restaurants. What happens to a world-class city when the people who power it can’t afford to stay?
Five Great Boston-Area Film Festivals
Hit these curated annual events for cutting-edge cinema, from fresh sci-fi to indie darlings, to support your local creative community.
The Five Best Indie Cinemas in Greater Boston
From a Harvard Square arthouse to a West Newton community staple, these local institutions have kept our city a thriving cultural hub.
Hollywood Northeast: How Massachusetts Became a Booming Film Production Hub
Thank a 2006 tax credit for sparking the Bay State’s movie-making revolution.
Movies in Boston: A Brief, But Essential History
Since the days of silent films, the city has had a rich cinematic legacy.
Our Brand-New List of Greater Boston’s Top Lawyers Is Here
Our exclusive list honoring the 1,122 best attorneys in the Massachusetts region—from corporate to family law—as chosen by their peers.
Department
The Secret Lives of Penguins
What really happens when the lights go out? Inside the surprisingly spicy world of New England Aquarium penguins. (You won’t believe who’s cozying up on Island One!)
How the Karen Read Case Turned a Neighborhood Bar Into a True Crime Landmark
How the Karen Read case turned Canton’s Waterfall Bar & Grille into an unwitting character in the area’s most sensational murder trial.
The Exit Interview: Jill Medvedow, Outgoing ICA Boston Director
After 27 years shaping the Institute for Contemporary Art, the powerhouse museum leader is stepping down. Here she shares parting pearls from a lifetime of modern art.
Home Design
What Do You Do With a Liminal Homework Nook?
Turn it into a swanky grownup lounge, of course.
Real Estate Showdown: A Beacon Hill Condo vs. a Dover Colonial
It’s amazing what a few miles can do to the market. This month, we compare a three-floor townhouse in Beacon Hill with a stately Dover single-family.
So You Want to Live in Weston?
Seeking a Hallmark-movie community with green space galore? Look no further than this idyllic west-of-Boston suburb.
Beacon
The Ultimate Guide to Breakfast in Boston
From power eggs to waffle wonders, here’s where to eat the most important meal of the day.
Where to Eat in Greater Boston in December 2024
New and exciting restaurants to check out, plus new reasons to visit older spots.
Other
50 Years of ‘Best of Boston’: Bars
In honor of this year’s 50th anniversary of Best of Boston, we’re taking a look back. This month, we toast to 50 years of sipping and socializing at Boston’s top watering holes, from dives to super-slick hotel bars.
Fashion + Style
30 Bold, Bougie Gifts for Everyone on Your Nice List
From artisanal sweets and unique experiences to dazzling gems, designer bags, and electric rides, our guide to satisfying your friends and neighbors with these handpicked, locally available gifts.