The Culture Translator

Goodnight Phone Calls, Annabelle, and Gen Z Tech Restrictions

May 29, 2025
Young men are embracing a quirky trend of calling each other to say goodnight, showcasing a charming side of male friendships. A haunted doll named Annabelle is at the center of a wild story linked to a plantation fire. Gen Z discusses their thoughts on imposing technology restrictions for their future kids, highlighting the push for digital minimalism. The cultural landscape also includes surprising box office stats, a unique debate by Dr. Jordan Peterson, and a wildly busy influencer on her wedding day.
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INSIGHT

Vulnerability Rare in Male Friendships

  • Young men calling friends to say goodnight highlights how rare authentic vulnerability is in male friendships.
  • These calls reveal many men feel emotionally burdened without anyone checking in on them.
ANECDOTE

Haunted Doll Sparks Viral Rumors

  • Annabelle, the haunted doll, sparked viral rumors of causing disasters during a U.S. tour.
  • The doll's driver disproved the disappearance claims but got fewer views, showing fascination with the scary.
INSIGHT

Gen Z Wants Tech Restrictions

  • Many Gen Zers want strict limits or no smartphones for kids due to risks like pornography and online bullying.
  • A UK survey found nearly half of teens prefer youth without internet and support digital curfews after 10pm.
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