By Kayla Markowitz – Editor-in-Chief 

Milford’s newest coffee shop, Wake-Cup Coffee, recently opened its doors on September 29 in the Milford Train Station. With two additional locations in Fairfield, Wake-Cup Coffee serves a variety of handmade baked goods and beverages. The store is open from 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m.-12 p.m. on weekends. With great service and kind employees, the cafe is a perfect way to start your travels.

“My favorite part of a typical shift is getting to practice my latte art,” Barista Gia T said.

The coffee shop offers a plethora of baked goods, including  Pao de Queijo and a Chocolate croissant. The Pao de Queijo is a baked cheese roll traditional to Brazilian cuisine which had a crunch soft outside, immediately met with a crumbly and cheesy inside with flavors that burst from the first bite. The chocolate croissant was flaky and buttery with soft chocolate on the inside. 

The menu also provides customers with many beverage options. The small hot drip coffee had a bold nutty flavor and the small iced matcha had a sweet aftertaste with a smooth texture. There were a lot of seating options with vibrant decorations and soft music playing in the background that made it all the more cozy.

“Wake-Cup Coffee is a great new addition to the Milford community that is conveniently located with a welcoming atmosphere,” customer Steven Zagami said.

By Ronnie M. – Staff Reporter

“Let’s Cheers To This,” the second studio album by the band “Sleeping With Sirens,” was released on May 10, 2011, by Rise Records. This album was a commercial success reaching the Top 5 on the Hard Rock charts and helping lift the band to later mainstream success. Its positive reception solidified the band’s following after their debut. “Sleeping with Sirens” blended catchy pop-punk, raw emo, and hardcore elements in this album. 

“If You Can’t Hang” is about three different relationships and the lessons learned from them. It is motivational rebel anthem about taking control of your life, chasing dreams despite critics, and celebrating your journey and independence. It embodies the album’s core message: “This is my life – I’ve got the whole world in front of me” and “I finally know what it means to have something I can call my own.”

Lead vocalist Kellin Quinn came up the song “A Trophy Father’s Trophy Son” while thinking about divorce and how it affects the parents’ children. It is written from the perspective of a son to a father. Quinn sings, “Father, father, tell me where have you been? / It’s been hell not having you here / I’ve been missing you so bad / And you don’t seem to care” and “Why are you walking away? / Was it something I did? / Did I make a mistake ’cause / I’m trying to deal with the pain / I don’t understand this, is this how it ends?”

“Do it Now Remember it Later” is about ambition, taking control of one’s destiny, asserting independence, and living life fully without hesitation. Lyrics include, “I’ve seen this place before, back when I was young / And I had something more to prove / Now that I’m older, I’ve seen all the things that I want / And I’m ready to make my move” and “Remember when they said that what we want can never be done? / Well look who’s laughing now, we’ll do what we want to.” “Who Are You Now” talks about hope and self-reflection, finding your true identity despite life’s challenges and urging listeners to embrace change, learn from mistakes. Quinn sings, “Sometimes you have to fall before you fly / You made me hate my own reflection / Question every choice I make / So I could try to be perfect / But I will try to be fake,” reflecting confusion and a lost sense of self.

This album is crafted with intense focus and raw emotion. It is the band’s heaviest album and still stands as one of the most influential emo albums of all time.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Calder Costantini – Staff Reporter

“Stranger Things: Season 5 – Volume 1” was released on November 26 comprising the first four episodes of the final season of “Stranger Things.” Volume 2 is scheduled to release on Christmas Day, with the finale episode set to air on New Year’s. Volume 1 follows the group around the militarized Hawkins, Indiana, following Season 4’s finale, where the group defeated Vecna. Volume 1’s main story came from the kids’ intense buildup to the “crawl,” referring to missions to the Upside Down to attempt to find Vecna. 

The tone of this volume is significantly more mature than that of other seasons, with a greater emphasis on exploring characters’ personal lives. A part of this reason is that the characters have grown to realize what they’ve been through. The writing in this volume depends on the characters’ heavy burdens, which they carry throughout the four episodes. 

The writers, Matt and Ross Duffer, believe that the reason “Stranger Things” became such a global phenomenon is that viewers can relate to the characters in the show due to the unbelievable acting job by the cast. Ross Duffer said, “I think a lot of the success of the show is, people can relate to these characters…they see themselves in [the characters] and…watching them overcome it gives them hope.” Duffer believes that the supporting cast in this show is very personable and likable as actors, which leads the audience to relate to and adore the characters.

The supporting cast in this show is jaw-dropping, with actors like Millie Bobbie Brown, Noah Schnapp, Joe Keery, and Finn Wolfhard, who is seen in many notable films like It, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Dog Days, and more. This cast has been together on this show for over a decade now, and it’s seen in the show that they are very comfortable with each other’s acting abilities. Millie Bobbie Brown, who is seen as Eleven in the show, says, “I love each and every one of them, and I’ll forever carry the memories and bonds we’ve created together as a family.” Brown says after being asked about how close she and this cast got throughout the decade they worked together. Many fans believe this is one of the best supporting casts in television history.

The main goal of “Season 5: Volume 1” was to pull viewers closer to the characters and show a dramatic effect through deep conversations and a sense of despair. As an opening volume to the season, these four episodes succeed by being thoughtful and emotional. It really sets the stage for something bigger to come in the future of the final season, which leaves viewers eager yet worried about what’s to come. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

By Cameron Graf – Staff Reporter

The movie “Spy Kids” from 2001 is a family adventure film directed by Robert Rodriguez. The movie shows action, comedy, fantasy and advanced technology for its time. This movie presents a high-tech spy world designed for younger kids, while also entertaining adults.

The movie follows Carmen and Juni Cortez. These siblings unexpectedly go on a mission. Their parents are spies, and the kids do not know. They keep things covered and are sort of like the FBI. The kids step into their shoes and help take down villains and prevent disasters that may happen. The journey they take shows teamwork, courage, and the two bonding together while also navigating the world they are in with gadgets, villains and vivid imaginations. The film balances humor and adventure while leaving suspense and plot twists.

“Spy Kids” stands out due to its creativity and how entertaining it is throughout the entire movie, not just in one scene. This movie is like no other when it comes to its setting. It has many memorable moments, such as when the siblings test out high-tech gadgets and escape from traps and villains. The sound effects enhance the tension and fun, making action sequences more exciting. Carmen says,  “Family comes first, even in the spy business.” This captures the heart of the film and shows how it is centered around family and its importance.

Some special effects, while ambitious for the time, are dated by modern standards, which can cause a few scenes to feel less effective today. A handful of side characters do not get fully developed, and more explanations into the motivations would be helpful. Certain comedic moments are too silly and take away from the action sequences.

The movie is open to viewers of any age, especially those with active imaginations. Its inventive gadgets memorable moments make it a standout family film of the early 2000s, despite minor weaknesses in visual effects and character depth.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

(Some information courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes)

By Shania Sanchez – Staff Reporter

Bad Bunny (Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio) released his studio album, “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” on January 5. By the end of the year, the album had earned him five awards at the Latin Grammy Awards. This surge in popularity also helped him land the spot as the performer for the Super Bowl. The album itself is a love letter to Puerto Rico, his birthplace and the home of his people. It is considered his most politically charged album yet. In essence, DTMF is a powerful call to value and protect Puerto Rican identity and culture all while dancing to its ancestral rhythms.

The album addresses deep concerns over cultural erosion, gentrification, and the impact of U.S. colonial policies on the island’s identity and people. Bad Bunny uses traditional Puerto Rican rhythms such as bomba, plena, and salsa to highlight the island’s heritage while warning against the displacement of its communities. U.S. policies have raised taxes for locals, forcing many to leave their homes. The album urges Puerto Ricans to value their roots, preserve their traditions, and resist assimilation.

He also sings about universal experiences, like heartbreak and seeing an ex doing better on social media. He often personifies Puerto Rico as a woman, describing her beauty despite her tears, symbolizing the resilience of Puerto Rico’s people. He even references Hawaii, cautioning against allowing the island to suffer the same fate where tourism caused erosion of the culture.

The album’s cover photo is also culturally significant. It features the plastic chairs familiar to many Latino and Caribbean families, often used for having conversations. Musically, the album is captivating. Many listeners wish others spoke Spanish to fully appreciate its beauty. Non-Puerto Ricans have also connected with its themes, as many Latin American countries have faced similar challenges. The album opens with “NUEVAYoL,” which samples “Un Verano en Nueva York (A Summer in New York)” by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. He then returns to reggaeton, but his third song is salsa, reconnecting with his roots in “BAILE INoLVIDABLE (Unforgettable Dance).”

In this song, he sings, “Mientras uno está vivo / uno debe de amar lo más que puede” (While one is alive, one should love as much as possible), reflecting a core idea in Latino culture: seize life’s joys because tomorrow is not guaranteed. He mourns a breakup while also metaphorically expressing love for Puerto Rico, singing, “No, no te puedo borrar / Tú me enseñaste a querer / Me enseñaste a bailar” (I can’t erase you; you taught me how to love, you taught me how to dance). Other songs, like “Que estará haciendo mi ex,” blend Latin trap, reggaeton, EDM, and house, to explore heartbreak. Tracks like “LO QUE LE PASO A HAWAIi” address cultural displacement, environmental threats, and the longing to preserve Puerto Rican heritage. Lyrics such as “Quieren quitarme el río y también la playa / Quieren al barrio mío y que tus hijos se vayan” (“They want to take the river and beaches from me; they want my neighborhood and your children to leave”) are a mix of beauty and grief.

Even in his upbeat songs like “LA MuDANZA” where he starts talking about his parents’ life, he still follows through on how he is from Puerto Rico and nobody can take that pride from him. He sings, “De aquí nadie me saca/de aquí yo no me muevo/Dile que esta es mi casa, donde nació mi abuelo” (“No one’ll kick me out of here, I’m not going anywhere, tell them this is my home where my grandfather was born.”). Songs like that encouraged people online to show their love for their heritage and their love for their culture. His most popular song on the album was “DtMF” which is the abbreviation of his album’s name, which means I should have taken more photos. It’s a nostalgic and emotional song about missed opportunities, lost loved ones, and the passage of time, with lyrics about wishing he’d taken more pictures and given more affection. These lyrics also made people share their lost loved ones with the lyrics, “Debí tirar más fotos de cuando te tuve/Debí darte más besos y abrazos las veces que pude” (“I should have taken more photos of when I had you. I should have given you more kisses and hugs as many times as I could.”)

There are really no bad songs on this album, but many people complain about the album’s length. Even they would have to admit, though, that Bad Bunny’s messages throughout the album are inspiring. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Tiana Rosiak – Staff Reporter

“Five Nights At Freddy’s 2″ was released in theaters on December 5 following the commercial success of it’s predecessor. The movie is based on the popular video-game franchise “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” created by the film’s producer and writer, Scott Cawthon. Though the film landed well with fans, it received negative reviews from most critics. While critiqued for it’s messy and not-so-scary plot, it was heavily praised for it’s exploration into already existing lore. Despite the negativity, the movie still did exceedingly well in the box office. The film has broken the record for the biggest December horror movie opening ever, beating out the 1997 movie, “Scream.”

The new installment, directed by Emma Tammi, takes place a year after the events that occurred during the prior movie. Now former security guard Mike (Josh Hutcherson) has to face new and deadlier animatronics with his sister Abby (Piper Rubio) and friend Vanessea (Elizabeth Lail) in order to protect the town’s adults. Other notable characters include Henry (Skeet Ulrich), William (Matthew Lillard), and Lisa (Mckenna Grace). The movie also stars Kellen Goff, Matthew Patrick, and Megan Fox as the voices of the new animatronic characters.

The movie maintains a somewhat campy and interesting vibe throughout it’s runtime. Jokes landed well, and when it was time for the horror element to shine, they did so and didn’t make it “cringe.” Easter eggs for fans were left throughout the movie through lines and cameos which proved to be fun for anyone who might take note. The film also contained impressive effects, especially pertaining to the animatronic characters and their suits. 

While there were attempts at improving this time around, it still remains poor in it’s writing and story. Most of the writing felt oversimplified and, at times, completely flat. The story as well was a weak point. Multiple times throughout the movie certain plo tlines felt either rushed or dragged on for too long. There wasn’t much development with characters, and new characters were tossed aside as soon as they were shown. Big plot twists felt predictable and recognizable to anyone with any bit of knowledge of the game and failed to leave a lasting mark. 

Overall, “Five Nights At Freddy’s 2” is a fun time for fans, but for anybody who may not be caught up on the game’s story, it feels messy and disappointing. The film, however, does a better job of maintaining the horror element compared to it’s predecessor.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

By Evelyn Rossi – Staff Reporter

Netflix original “All of Us Are Dead” follows the lives of high schoolers and their escape from the city of Hyosan, South Korea, which has become ground zero for a zombie apocalypse. This K-Drama is a TV series adaptation of the webtoon of the same name, published from 2009 to 2011. The series, however, premiered on Netflix on January 28, 2022, and was watched over 474.26 million hours in its first 30 days on the service. The main character, Nam On-jo, is a typical high school student. Her grades aren’t exceptional, and she isn’t in any clubs, just flying under the radar. Her childhood friend and long-time neighbor, Lee Cheong-san, leads the same life. The series also shadows the stories of minor leads, like government officials and other students. 

The series starts at the top of a building, with delinquents beating up a student who is the son of Hyosan High’s science teacher, Lee Byeong-chan. After a while, the bullied student turns rabid and seemingly impossible to knock down, before getting pushed off the building. Mr. Lee visits his son in the hospital and explains that he has been injecting him with the virus he made to give his son superhuman strength. Although its original purpose had no ill intent, the Jonas Virus actually makes the infected individual a zombie-like creature. The virus soon spreads into the school through an infected lab rat and a curious girl. Students Nam-ra, the cold class president, and Su hyeok, the sociable reformed ex-delinquent, find Cheong-san and On-jo along with some other students from their class. From here, the series follows this main party and minor leads. 

This horror-drama leaves audiences on the edge of their seats every episode, with exciting plots and lovable characters paired with some light humor to lighten the apocalyptic setting. Fans of the show notice that each character is well-written and loved by everyone, even antagonistic characters, as they can all be appreciated for their differences. No two characters are the same, and all bring something different to the table, further helping each other make it out of their apocalyptic city. The depth of even side-characters, who the audience may not like to begin with, will soon have them sympathizing with these characters. The only complaints viewers have are that the show is too fast-paced and rushes the characters’ relationships with each other. While this is understandable, the plot of the series does require a more action-packed and rapid environment. 

Actress Cho Yi-hyun has been particularly praised for her performance as Choi Nam-ra. Fans appreciate her versatility, as this role is very different from the bubbly characters she has portrayed before. Yi-hyun conveys the character of Nam-ra in a way that feels so real; many watchers relate to her and sympathize with her and the struggles she faces in the show. Fans love that she represents those who find it hard to be social, as although she is the Class President, the class despises her for her aloof demeanor, and logical thinking, especially at a time that needs hope. “They say when people confirm their situation is hopeless, they truly fall into despair.” 

“All of Us Are Dead” has been positively accepted as one of the best K-dramas of its kind and is much beloved by viewers who cannot wait for another thrilling season of the series. 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Shania Sanchez – Staff Reporter

The movie “IT” came out in 2017 and was a complete commercial success. The movie, which is an adaptation of the horror fiction novel written by Stephen King, was directed by Andy Muschietti and written by Chase Palmer, Cary Fukunaga, and Gary Dauberman. The movie is a sequel itself and was inspired by an amalgamation of different 80s movies, including “The Howling” (1981), “The Thing” (1982), “The Goonies” (1985), “Stand by Me” (1986), and “Near Dark” (1987). Critics said it was one of the best adaptations of Stephen King’s books, which is saying a lot due to the fact that the book had a previous adaptation. Recently, there has been the release of the “Welcome to Derry” series, which takes place before “IT” and expands more into Pennywise’s background as well as the fate of the people in Derry who lived 27 years before 1988. Due to this series, people have been talking about this gem of a movie again. 

The movie’s main characters are Bill Denbrough and his friends Richie Tozier, Eddie Kaspbrak, and Stanley Uris. They spend the first half of the summer looking for Georgie, Bill’s little brother, who had gone missing the year prior when he went to play in the rain and never came home. The group gets labeled the “Losers Club” by bullies including Henry Bowers – the most persistent and the bully ringleader. The “Losers” embrace that label, however, and Bill’s refusal to conform to the thought that his baby brother is dead causes him and his friends to get wrapped up in something unimaginably horrifying. He says, “Because I can’t. I go home and all I see is that Georgie isn’t there. His clothes, his toys, his stupid stuffed animals… but he isn’t…” The hurt Bill has due to not seeing his little brother anymore takes up so much space in his mind that Pennywise uses it against Bill so many times. As the movie progresses, the “Losers Club” grows in size with the addition of a homeschooled kid (Mike Hanlon), a girl whose rumors of promiscuity have made her an outcast (Beverly Marsh), and the newest kid in town (Ben Hanscom). They are all united due to being outcasts in their tiny town of Derry, Maine, are easy targets for bullies and, of course, the killer clown entity on the loose. But their empathy and love for each other hold them together through it all.

The movie was absolutely amazing from start to finish, capturing viewers’ imagination. The movie was so well done that it gave many people a fear of clowns and sparked a dance movement where people danced like the famous clown during a scene with Beverly. It also perfectly encapsulates how freshmen in high school act. Richie had such a foul mouth, it’s so natural that, honestly, most teen watchers wouldn’t bat an eye. Not to mention all of the actors were the age they were portraying. There was no 25-year-old playing a 14-year-old, the oldest people on set were the adults and Skarsgård. The movie also did a great job portraying friendship in high school. People who have no worries just ignore the clown, but in the scenes without the clown, they are having their fun messing around and going through their small town on their bikes, making the movie not all doom and gloom. It also does a beautiful job of giving the children real fears that a 13 or 14-year-old would actually have. Seeing Stanley Uris absolutely terrified of some skinny, gaunt-looking lady from a painting in his dad’s office is super realistic and honestly adds a layer of humanity. Richie Tozier was a fan favorite, with his constant foul mouth and witty one-liners. 

Many people who read the book complained about the fact that Mike was supposed to be the researcher and brains of the operation, but sadly, that was given to Ben, which made people sad that Mike had such a crucial part of his character taken from him. There were also criticisms about the fact that Beverly had been given a much more “damsel in distress” role compared to her stronger portrayal in the book. There were also complaints of it relying too much on jump scares, but it is a horror movie, obviously, there are going to be jump scares, and the watcher is supposed to be scared. But that’s mostly where the complaints of the movie end. 

The only way to describe the movie “IT” is beautiful and terrifying, a great adaptation that did justice to the book. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Cameron Graf – Staff Reporter

“Regretting You” is the 2025 film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s 2019 novel. The film begins with Morgan Grant and her teenage daughter, Clara, as their relationship starts to shift after the accident involving Clara’s dad and the discovery of a secret love triangle. The story then progresses into themes of family drama, grief, betrayal, and coming of age, focusing heavily on Clara and her mother’s relationship.

The movie follows the mother and daughter’s once-close relationship and how it begins to change as they each deal with growing up, shifting priorities, and unexpected challenges that force them to see one another as different versions of themselves. The mom struggles with the weight of her past and the sacrifices she has made for her daughter, while her daughter pushes for independence and her own identity. As tension builds between them, they are forced to confront each other about the misunderstandings they have been carrying.

The movie shows strong emotions between all of the main characters. They deal with heartbreaking issues, and the way they portray their emotions and cope with them is impressive. The plot twists add suspense and keep viewers engaged throughout the entire film. The camera work is amazing and makes viewers feel as if they are there, watching the story unfold. The casting is great, especially if viewers keep up with young, trending actors. The song choices are also trendy and fitting for the movie.

There is a lot going on in this movie, and viewers need to pay attention while watching. At some points, the film does lose the plot a bit, leaving some viewers confused. Certain characters don’t get enough time for their own development, and compared to the book, the movie includes fewer details.

This movie portrays love, grief, and acceptance all in one. If viewers enjoy flashbacks, plot twists, and teenage love stories, this movie is definitely worth watching. The characters’ development and the realization that change is OK make this film stand out.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Ronnie M. – Staff Reporter

“A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” was released on Sept. 27, 2005, by Panic! at the Disco. It was the band’s debut album, produced by Matt Squire, and released through Decaydance Records, later Fueled by Ramen. From the start, the band was thrust into the challenging world of fame.

The songs began as demos that Ryan Ross, the lyricist and lead guitarist, sent to Pete Wentz’s LiveJournal. Wentz, bassist for Fall Out Boy and owner of Decaydance Records, was impressed and flew to Las Vegas to meet the band. Ross cited author Chuck Palahniuk as a major influence, and he and the band were also inspired by Third Eye Blind and Stephen Jenkins. The album blends pop-punk, emo, electronic sounds, and even orchestral instruments like strings and horns. This unique mix helped the band stand out and inspired other artists such as Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, and Paramore.

“I Write Sins Not Tragedies” is the album’s most famous track. It opens with a plucked cello line, and Brendon Urie’s dramatic vocals paired with clever lyrics. He sings. “No, it’s much better to face these kinds of things / With a sense of poise and rationality.”

“Build God, Then We’ll Talk” tells a dark story about a girl exploited by adults, set against a cheerful melody reminiscent of “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music.” The chorus, “What a wonderful caricature of intimacy,” shows how physical closeness can be empty without real emotional connection.

“Time to Dance” is a fan favorite for its experimental style, mixing rock, electronic elements, strings, and the theatrical, vaudeville-inspired sound Panic! at the Disco is known for. Its lyrics reference Chuck Palahniuk’s “Invisible Monsters”: “Give me envy, give me malice, give me your attention” and “When I say shotgun, you say wedding / Shotgun wedding, shotgun wedding.” It was also the first demo that made it onto the album, helping define the band’s early sound.

The album is celebrated for its bold, genre-blending style. The first half focuses on pop-punk and emo, while the second half incorporates orchestral and theatrical influences. Its smart, layered lyrics, catchy hooks, and self-aware aesthetic make it a unique listening experience. While some critics noted the shift in style and the frank themes of sex and infidelity, the album was widely praised for its creativity and originality.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Calder Costantini – Staff Reporter

“2014 Forest Hills Drive” is a hip-hop album produced by the artist J. Cole. The album debuted on December 9, 2014, under Dreamville Records and Roc Nation, officially being Cole’s third studio album. This album strayed from the mainstream because Cole included zero featured artists and stayed away from the radio vibe of music. Cole delivered a raw, self-contained narrative about his upbringing and the struggles that followed in gaining fame. This album conveyed an autobiographical vibe that fans adored. 

The name “2014 Forest Hills Drive” originates from J. Cole’s childhood home in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The album loosely follows the story of his childhood in Fayetteville that shaped him, and his anxieties today. The songs “Dreamz” and “January 28th” explore Cole’s adolescence as an awkward, out-of-touch, high school student, following his anxious and troubled childhood, staying unapologetically honest throughout these songs. Bouncing off of those songs, songs like “G.O.M.D” and “No Role Modelz” show Cole’s path through the music industry, where he strived to be his own specific artist, and he didn’t want to be compared to anyone else. In these songs, he can critique the industry while still being able to know his own place, which is a strong point and recurring theme throughout this whole album.

Arguably, the best song on this album is Cole’s “Love Yourz.” The song dives deeper into the emotional side of his music, reminding listeners that fulfillment doesn’t come from success. The track demonstrates how gratitude is essential to achieving happiness. 

Although this album is a critically acclaimed masterpiece, there are a few weak points according to fans. Many people claim that the album has lyrical inconsistencies and seems to stray away from being a standout album for Cole. These points make fans second-guess the album’s prominence in the mainstream media, but a majority of listeners have no bad thoughts on this record.

This album truly follows a great story through Cole’s childhood and his challenges throughout his whole life. The album won countless awards, such as, 2015 BET Hip Hop Awards – Album of the Year, the 2015 Billboard Music Awards – Best Rap Album, as long as the album went triple platinum in 2019.

Overall, this album is one of the cornerstones of modern-day hip-hop music and will surely go down in the history books as one of the greatest storytelling rap albums of all time.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Zach Hyatt and Ryan Woods – Staff Reporters

“Jumanji,” released on December 20, 2017, is an adventure-comedy film directed by Jake Kasdan. The main protagonist in this film is Spencer Gilpin, played by Alex Wolff, and his avatar, Dr. Smolder Bravestone, played by Dwayne Johnson. The antagonist is Russel Van Pelt, played by Bobby Cannavale.

The plot of the movie is that Spencer and his friends get detention and have to clean up the school basement, where they find an old video game called “Jumanji.” They turn on the video game, and everyone chooses their players, and then it starts to malfunction. They end up getting sucked into the game, and each person is the character that they chose. After finding out that they are in the game, they meet a guy named Nigel Billingsly, played by Rhys Darby. This man tells the players to find the Jaguar’s Eye, climb to the top of the jaguar statue, put the eye back, and call out “Jumanji.”

Spencer and his friends realize what they have to do, but it’s dangerous. If they die three times in the game, they die in real life. So they go through each level as careful as possible until they reach a shopping center where they get ambushed. Dr. Bravestone holds his own, but they get saved by a mysterious guy who sneaks them off to be able to get to the next level. Meanwhile, Alex thinks he has only been stuck in the game for a couple of months and everyone, including him, is shocked to realize he has been there for two decades. They all make it their mission to get him back home.

This movie really keeps people hooked because the director implements comedy into dramatic scenes. Another reason why this is a solid movie is that it feels and looks as if they actually are in a video game, with the NPC dialogue and the tattoos on their wrists indicating the amount of lives they have left.

But there are some rough patches in this movie as well. To start, there were very predictable scenes and elements in the movie. They also rely on comedy throughout the movie, when some of the scenes won’t please the audience.

Overall, “Jumanji” is a fun action movie that mixes adventure and comedy well. Even with a few predictable parts, it’s still a great movie that lots of people enjoy watching even years after release.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Lillian-Mae Haney – Staff Reporter

Mike Krol’s released his first album, “I Hate Jazz’ on May 11, 2011. This album is unique from other albums because of how it is presented. Unlike others, almost all of the songs are around one minute but the longest song on their is four minutes and 11 seconds. As well as this, his songs on this album are very loud, messy, and chaotic making him different from other artists.

The songs in this album are not actually about hating jazz but about but rather a rejection of being put into a specific musical scene or stereotype, as suggested by the song “Left out.” It’s about heartbreak and losing motivation. His voice is loud and powerful and it’s hard to understand his music at first, but once people start actually listening to his music, the lyrics hit hard. 

The strongest points of the album come from his energy. Krol excels at creating music that feels alive, with tracks like “Fifteen Minutes” and “Like a Star” standing out because of their punchy riffs and memorable hooks. The distorted production adds character, giving each song its own edge. Even the vocals, which are rough around the edges, fit the attitude of the album perfectly, making the listening experience feel personal. The short length of the songs keeps everything tight and prevents the album from dragging, making it feel like a nonstop burst of motion.

However, the album does have clear weak points. The heavy distortion and similar pacing across the tracks can cause some songs to blend together, making it hard for certain moments to stand out. Listeners who prefer cleaner production or more dynamic songwriting might find the album too chaotic. Some tracks end abruptly, giving the sense that his ideas weren’t fully explored. 

“I Hate Jazz” by Mike Krol has a distinctive sound that sets it apart from others of its caliber and has valuable messages laced throughout each song. If people like artists like Will Wood, Alex G, or Dazey and the Scouts, they’ll most likely love Krol.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Brady O’Neil and Connor Ryan – News Editors

“Chad Powers,” which released on Hulu on September 30, is a sports/comedy series that was definitely a must-watch series. Created by Glen Powell and Michael Waldron, the show centers on Russ Holliday, a former college football star whose once-promising career ends after a major mistake and a meltdown that goes viral online The fallout sends Holliday into hiding, spending years laying low on the radar, but a surprising second chance appears when he returns to the sport in disguise as “Chad Powers,” a younger, unrecognized persona who takes the sport by storm. Under this new identity, Chad quickly becomes one of the most talked-about names in the college football world, bringing fresh energy and attention to every field he steps onto. 

The show follows Holliday’s effort to navigate life as Chad while secretly joining a new team and fighting for a starting spot on the roster. This journey forces him to remake his entire identity and routine from the ground up, earning trust from coaches and teammates who have no idea who he actually is. Through this process, the character reconnects with the sport in a way that feels more genuine than anything from his past. Glen Powell delivers a great performance by giving Russ and Chad completely different identities, being able to successfully separate the characters, truly making it seem like he is really hiding the fact from the world that he is Chad Powers. The football scenes are insanely realistic, with movement and playmaking that match actual NFL and College games. The writing blends humor with emotional depth, creating moments that feel both funny and surprisingly grounded. 

Even with all its strengths, the show does have a few weaknesses. Some of the episodes spend too much time on the main storyline revolving around Chad, which makes it seem like there’s too much attention on him. Certain side characters show real potential but don’t get the attention they deserve, leaving interesting ideas unexplored. The disguise concept, while fun and central to the show, seems exaggerated at times, and in real life he would definitely be caught.

Overall, “Chad Powers” is a great mix of sports and comedy. It can improve in some aspects, but in others it excels, and should be a definite watch for football fans.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Molly Lynch – Editor-In-Chief

Taylor Swift released her 12th studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” on October 3. This album is unique from her past albums because of its upbeat, pop-focused style with themes centered around love, identity, and the thrill of being in the spotlight. Fan reactions have been mixed, with some praising the album’s energy, catchy hooks, and sense of fun, while others find it uneven, vague, and less emotionally deep than her previous albums. 

Swift deserves praise for this album because of the risks she took and how she highlights fame, spectacle, and love in the public eye. This side of stardom has not been acknowledged in recent media, which makes this album stand out from others of its genre.

The best songs from this album are either “Opalite” or “The Fate of Ophelia.” Both of these songs are extremely catchy and have been on repeat for many since the album’s release. Behind the song’s melodic production, produced by Swift, Max Martin, and Shellback, the messages of these songs correlate with each other really well. With “The Fate of Ophelia”, Swift references the tragic Ophelia from Hamlet by using imagery of drowning in emotional mayhem, then rephrases it as being rescued by love and connection. “Opalite” is a more optimistic song about finding clarity and love. The opalite gemstone metaphor symbolizes transformation, light after darkness, and finding the right person at the right time. 

Another highlight of this album is the title track, “The Life of a Showgirl,” featuring Sabrina Carpenter. The song chronicles the showgirl persona, the glamour, as well as what goes on behind the curtains. It is a story about meeting one of your idols and informing them that you want to follow in their footsteps. This collaboration is significant because Carpenter fits perfectly into the story that the song portrays. With being a rising pop star as well as opening for The Eras Tour, Carpenter and Swift bridge the gap between the two generations for pop stardom.

“The Life of a Showgirl” has a distinctive sound that sets it apart from others of its caliber and has valuable messages laced throughout each song. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Ronnie M. – Staff Reporter

“The Black Parade” is the third studio album by New Jersey rock band My Chemical Romance, first released on October 23, 2006, through Reprise Records. Lead singer Gerard Way came up with the idea to make it a concept album, believing that “death beckons you with one’s fondest memory.” It is centered on the story of a man suffering from terminal cancer, known as “The Patient,” and his journey into the afterlife. The album explores themes of death, memory, and reflection, using the phrase “Black Parade” as a metaphor for both the patient’s impending death and a powerful, warped memory of a childhood parade he attended with his father. “Black Parade” is the entity that leads “The Patient” through his journey into the afterlife, narrating the story of the album. This narration leads the songs to often alternate between the perspectives of “The Patient” and Death, chronicling his struggle, acceptance, and eventual journey toward the end of his life. The songs written from his perspective often explore his fear, regret, and struggle to come to terms with his situation; therefore, the lyrics are bitter and selfish. These themes were heavily amplified from the band secluding themselves within the haunted Paramour Mansion located in Los Angeles, a venue the band found to be eerie, and influenced the album’s dark tone. This creative process showed in the 2006 release of “The Black Parade,” a record known as one of the most influential albums in modern rock history. It skillfully integrates rock, pop, and punk elements with orchestral and theatrical components that redefined the boundaries of alternative rock. Each song contributes to the overarching narrative, immersing listeners in the Patient’s emotional and spiritual journey.

The opening track, “The End,” begins with the beeping of a heart monitor. The soft and meaningful lyrics mixed with an acoustic guitar begin the story of “The Patient”: “Now, come on, come all to this tragic affair,” “So gather ’round, piggies, and kiss this goodbye.” This short song is an intro into the album or the beginning of the Patient’s journey through the afterlife, reflecting on the time he has had while he was a part of the living. This transitions into the first proper song on the album, “Dead!” In it, “The Patient” receives the news of his cancer diagnosis. Despite the grim subject matter, the music and lyrics have a sarcastic and upbeat feel, using dark humor as a way to cope with the reality of death. Track three, “This Is How I Disappear,” explores themes of death, regret, and a desire to be forgotten or to fade away, and was inspired by séances — the act of contacting the dead. This shows the Patient’s attitude toward his death, the loneliness it entails. Just like track three, track four, “The Sharpest Lives,” is similar in that it showcases a different way of discussing death; however, its focus is the idea of living life without caring about the consequences of one’s actions. As the Patient looks back on his messy youth, track five, “Welcome to the Black Parade,” the album’s centerpiece, focuses on the Patient’s childhood memory before his death. The song opens up with a brief piano introduction that later transforms into a grand-scale song that incorporates many different rock elements, prominently sounding like a marching band. This starts with the memory of attending a parade with his father and remembering the advice he bestowed upon him. “He said, ‘Will you defeat them? / Your demons, and all the nonbelievers / The plans that they have made?’” This “challenge” is what he grapples with throughout the album. After this powerful anthem is “I Don’t Love You,” the album’s first power ballad, with its themes being self-explanatory, and the emotional difficulty of ending a relationship. Next, “House of Wolves” covers the Patient as he experiences the afterlife, and seemingly ends up in hell, giving solid imagery of what the Patient feels is waiting for him on the other side. This vivid imagery continues in the next track, “Cancer,” where the character comes to terms with the horrific disease, a literal death sentence, and the effects that it has left on his appearance and life. “Now turn away / ‘Cause I’m awful just to see / ‘Cause all my hair’s abandoned all my body,” “But counting down the days to go / It just ain’t living.” “Mama” is centered around the character of “Mother War,” who represents the Patient’s mother, while the Patient begs her for forgiveness for his actions throughout his life. “Sleep” is one of the slower points on the album, being the second power ballad. It is the Patient’s self-reflection and a feeling of a hellish destiny. “Teenagers” is an outlier in the story; it was made as Gerard Way’s expression of his fear for teenagers. This song could be viewed through two different lenses, one operating inside the story and one operating outside of the story. “Disenchanted” is the third and final power ballad in the album. This song presents the concept of realizing or waking up in life, truly seeing it for what it’s actually worth. “The Patient,” when nearing his death, realizes his life was spent passively waiting rather than living meaningfully. The story comes to an end with the fitting final track, “Famous Last Words,” and it is a more uplifting note, something unexpected to find at the end of this album. It is commanding and leaves the listener with redemption and hope. The lyrics are a powerful declaration of overcoming challenges. “I am not afraid to keep on living / I am not afraid to walk this world alone,” “Nothing you can say can stop me going home.” This is the end of an emotionally hard-to-write album with its dark theme.

The production on the album is amazing; it’s well-tuned and mixed. Gerard Way, the lead singer, is the one who is gifted to write all the lyrics for these songs, communicating his feelings through words that are intense and introspective. The rest of the band works together in synergy to express their own emotions through music, fusing it with Gerard’s strong vocals to make masterful songs and albums that inspire and shape younger and older audiences with spiritual music they can connect with, can relate to, so they know they are not alone and aren’t the only ones going through these intense and suffocating thoughts. The band intended the album to be a source of comfort, support, and an “anthem of a generation” for those struggling with mental health issues and personal crises. One thing My Chemical Romance wanted people to take away from this amazing listening experience is a message of hope, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit over darkness, pain, and hardship. This album is a rallying cry for finding the strength to keep living despite life’s challenges it throws in your way.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Zach Hyatt – Staff Reporter 

“Black Phone 2,” released on October 17, is a horror-thriller film directed by Scott Derrickson. The main protagonists in this film are Finney Blake, played by Mason Thames, Gwen Finney’s younger sister, played by Madeleine McGraw, and the main antagonist, the Grabber, played by Ethan Hawke.

The film takes place four years after “Black Phone.” Weird things start to happen again in a small town, and kids are disappearing again. That same black phone starts to ring again, letting the new victims talk to the ghosts of the Grabber’s old victims. And together they try and help the new victim escape before they are ghosts too. The story brings back old characters from the first film to try to put the grabber away for good.

The movie follows a new group of kids who have to find a way to deal with the Grabber’s spirit and the black phone that connects them to his victims. As kids keep disappearing, the old characters come back to put the Grabber’s spirit away. The movie has suspense, fear and teamwork.

“Black Phone 2” does a good job at keeping viewers watching throughout the whole thing. The acting is strong, especially Finney and his little sister; they really make everything feel real. The scary music and dark background make the movie even creepier. It also shows that the characters from the last film are still dealing with the trauma, which gives it emotion.

Unfortunately, while the movie is solid, but it has its mistakes. Some parts feel really slow and don’t add very much to the story. It also has a lot of repetitive scenes from the first movie, which makes viewers feel like they already know what is going to happen. The ending also leaves a lot of questions unanswered. 

Overall, “Black Phone 2” is a scary movie that keeps viewers on their toes. It has several jump scares, impressive acting, and interesting twists, but some parts are a bit slow and don’t add much to the movie. 

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

By Robert Vercellone – Staff Reporter

“Miracle” is a 2004 sports movie that takes place in Lake Placid, NY, and tells the true story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team. Coached by Herb Brooks, the team, made up of college players, faced off against the dominant Soviet Union team, which had won the previous four Olympic gold medals. The film captures the intense training, physically and mentally, that led to one of the most iconic upsets in sports history. 

The movie follows Brooks as he selects and trains his team. He pushes them hard to play as a team. The film leads up to the big game against the Soviets. As Brooks said, “Great moments are born from great opportunity.” This quote represents the hardships that this team went through to get to the point that they were at, and that they had an opportunity to beat them.

One of the film’s strengths is the way it tells this story to create an understanding with the audience. The actors did well, and it follows the story well and adds more while making you root for the underdog team. The hockey scenes are also a key point in this film, and they did a good job with them. In one sense, they had to skate for what seems like forever, and the movie was able to capture their emotions and mental state during this time. They captured the struggles of the hockey team and the highs very well, and  the acting was excellent.

Theres nothing really bad to say about this film. Even if viewers are not into hockey, “Miracle” can drag them in and make them want to root for the underdog USA team, and make them want to keep watching. Those who are not into hockey might not understand some scenes, and might make them lose interest, but besides that, this film was beautifully done.

Overall, “Miracle” is an inspiring and well-crafted sports movie. It’s a story about teamwork, dedication, and believing in yourself with so many memorable quotes. It’s a big part of U.S. sports history and a thrilling underdog story. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Kaylanii Albert – Staff Reporter

“The Polar Express” is a 2004 animated film that is based off of a 1985 children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. The movie was directed by Robert Zemeckis who is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter. The Polar Express was the first movie ever to be filmed entirely with motion capture technology. It holds the Guinness World Record as the first all-motion capture film. The train in the movie is modeled after the Pere Marquette 1225 steam locomotive, located in Owosso, Michigan.

“The Polar Express” is about a boy who questions whether he thinks Santa Claus is real or not. On Christmas Eve he boards a magical train going to the North Pole that appears outside of his house. Along the way he meets other children and they go on an adventure together to the North Pole. It challenges their beliefs and shifts their thinking of Santa Claus by the end of their trip. It explores the themes of wonder, faith, and the magic of Christmas.

The Polar Express has a very strong and interesting plot carried throughout the movie and is very well-written. For being the first movie to be entirely filmed with motion capture technology, it was very well animated. A majority of the people who watched the “Polar Express” love it and rewatch it every year for the holidays. It’s so interesting and really gets people into the holiday spirit in time for Christmas. It’s perfect for any age and some may even argue, is the best Christmas movie ever.

A few downsides is that some scenes can be a bit stiff, especially with facial expressions that don’t look exactly natural. The pacing is slow in certain scenes, which make it hard for younger kids to stay focused on the movie. The characters seem like they aren’t deeply developed in a way, so it gets tough to connect with them emotionally. The movie also has somewhat a dark tone at times, which gets unsettling for younger kids. Lastly, the ending leaves some viewers unsure whether the adventure was real or just a dream.

“The Polar Express” is a great Christmas movie fit for all ages with an interesting plot, but there are some flaws. There is always room to improve even for a great movie like “The Polar Express.”

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

Edited by – TM

By Aleah James – Staff Reporter

The Weeknd is a popular R&B artist. Born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, he grew up in a difficult environment in Scarborough, Toronto. Abel was raised by his mother and grandmother after his Ethiopian immigrant parents separated. He dropped out of high school at age 17, left home, and began a lifestyle focusing on chasing what he desired, which was a career in music. He adopted the stage name “The Weeknd.” He decided to drop the “e” off to avoid trademark issues. His career took off after releasing his first mixtape, “House of Balloons” which received co-signs from singer Drake, which led to a record deal and international fame. 

The songs in this album are about late nights, heartbreak, and craving connection while pushing everyone away. It’s messy on purpose. His voice is soft and smooth, but the lyrics hit hard – he’s not sugarcoating anything. Songs like “Wicked Games” and “The Morning” pull you into his world where everything feels cool on the outside but kind of hollow underneath. That contrast is what makes it feel so real.

The beats go from echoey and spacey to  chaotic. It samples parts like a rock band here, a weird sound effect there – and it somehow blends into this soundtrack for anyone who’s ever stayed up too late overthinking everything.

Even now, “House of Balloons” still holds up. It shaped a whole generation of R&B artists who leaned into their emotions instead of hiding them. And it made The Weeknd a name to remember – before the Super Bowl performances, before the Grammys, and the pop hits. This was the raw beginning.

By Joey Amaro – Staff Reporter

Drake’s 2025 single “What Did I Miss?” is the lead track to his upcoming album “Iceman.” Released at the end of his beef with fellow rapper Kendrick Lamar, the song shows Drake having mixed feelings. Questioning friendships, loyalty, and fame’s effect. Produced by Tay Keith and FNZ, the song blends R&B beats with added percussion, showing a darker, more reflective era in his music.

The theme of “What Did I Miss?” revolves around betrayal . Drake questions how his relationships changed while he was handling his fame. The repetitive lyric “What did I miss?” becomes confusing sometimes. Tone-wise, the song goes back and forth between him feeling sad and feeling tough. It shows that Drake is hurt because people he trusted let him down, but he’s also proud and confident that he’s still standing strong.

The song’s biggest strength lies in its precision. The music in the song sounds dark and serious, which matches Drake’s mixed-up feelings. The beat has deep drums and cool sounds that make it exciting to listen to. The chorus sticks in your head, but also feels a little sad. Compared to other rappers like J. Cole or Travis Scott, Drake still mixes singing and rapping really well. He shows his feelings but also sounds confident and cool.

Even though the song is powerful, it covers the same topics Drake often raps about like, betrayal, loyalty, and loneliness. Longtime fans might be hoping for a fresh point of view. Drake could make the song stronger by adding more personal details or showing deeper emotions beyond the usual themes of fame and conflict.

“What Did I Miss?” shows Drake’s lyrics and feelings, and is a relevant reflection of his state of mind.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Ryan Woods – Staff Reporter

“Top Gun: Maverick,” which was released on May 27, 2022, is Tom Cruise’s highest-grossing film, earning $1.4 billion at the global box office. It also earned an Academy Award for Best Sound, a Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Cinematography, and a People’s Choice Award. 

The director of “Top Gun: Maverick” is Joseph Kosinski, and some of the main actors are Cruise as Pete Mitchell, Miles Teller as Bradley Bradshaw, Val Kilmer as Tom Kazansky, Glen Powell as Jake “Hangman” Seresin, and Jennifer Connelly as Penny Benjamin. 

The movie follows Capt. Pete Mitchell, who was one of the Navy’s best aviators, becomes a test pilot and tries his hardest not to be promoted in rank. After testing a jet and flying at Mach 9, he is brought back to the Navy to teach the best of the best to complete a near-impossible mission. But something is stopping Pete from giving his best to these students; Pete’s former wingman, “Goose,” died in a fatal crash, and Pete is now Goose’s son’s teacher. The journey is a grueling and mental and physical challenge.

There are few weak spots in this movie but the biggest is the highly predictable ending. There are also many new characters and the directors didn’t bring back any of the characters from the old movie. There are many more strong points than weak points, though, including the amazing cinematography and the nostalgia that the movie brings.

Overall, “Top Gun: Maverick” is a must-watch, inspirational movie.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Lillian-Mae Haney – Staff Reporter

Modern Baseball is an indie rock and emo band from Philadelphia, started by college friends Brendan Lukens and Jake Ewald. They began making music while they were still in school, writing songs that felt personal and kind of awkward in a relatable way. Their sound mixes pop-punk energy with honest, sometimes self-deprecating lyrics about relationships, mental health, and growing up. What makes Modern Baseball stand out is how real they sound. They’re not trying too hard to impress anyone.

Their debut album, “Sports,” captures what it feels like to grow up and not have everything figured out. The record is full of songs about heartbreak, insecurity, and trying to find confidence in who you are. Each track feels like a personal diary entry written by someone just trying to understand life. The songs “The Weekend” and “Cooke” stand out most, each showing a different side of the band.

One of the biggest strengths of “Sports” is its honesty. The lyrics feel like conversations with a close friend. In “The Weekend”, Lukens sings, “You’ve got a smile that could light this town,” before admitting his own insecurity. “Tears Over…” is witty and self-aware, with the line, “You’re taking your time to make sure you don’t get caught up in me,” capturing the awkwardness of one-sided affection. Even slower songs like “Cooke” show emotional depth, as Ewald sings softly, “I’ve been waiting for the world to burn, so I can call you and tell you it’s all right.” The mix of humor, emotion, and honesty makes this album special.

Despite its emotional impact, “Sports” can sometimes feel repetitive. Many of the songs follow a similar tempo and rhythm, which makes a few of them blend together. The rough production also makes the sound less polished, but that raw, DIY quality gives the album its charm. A bit more musical variety could make the album even more dynamic and help highlight the band’s best moments.

Overall, “Sports” is an incredible debut that captures the messy, confusing, and emotional parts of growing up. Its lyrics are honest and relatable, and its sound perfectly matches the imperfections of real life. 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Cameron Graf – Staff Reporter

Shane Boose, known as “Sombr,” has begun to gain fame in the music industry. He’s best known for his single called “Back to Friends.” The song is about a romantic relationship that’s starting to shift into a platonic relationship. It’s about the connection between the people that has now faded into a friendship. It shows the struggle with boundaries and expectations. That’s just one of his songs, but some of them have a similar vibe. His songs are all about yearning for someone, even if the connection isn’t there. His music is for a specific group of people, so listeners may or may not like the lyrics. He’s been writing music since he was 14, and kids at school used to belittle him, saying he would never get anywhere with his music. He has never given up and looks at how far he’s come. 

His album “I Barely Knew Her” is a new release and the first album he’s produced. It has 10 songs, and they mainly are about how Sombr needs to let go of who this woman was and how he didn’t know who she really was. He didn’t know her, and she turned out to be a totally different person. The album consists of some of his popular singles like “We Never Even Dated,” “Back to Friends,” and “Undressed.”

Sombr is an amazing artist and a writer. The way he portrays his emotions, word choices, and how he really feels is phenomenal. He also makes videos and has a pretty big platform and a bunch of supporters. He’s an open person and takes criticism from fans, but is learning to deal with it. His fans say his music is like a connection, and they see him as a normal person with feelings too.

Although Sombr has been getting some backlash recently with the way his concerts are. People over the age of 25 have been complaining about the validation that he’s been seeking from a younger audience. They mentioned “brain rot” in the jokes he was making, but had adult dancers at his concerts. Sombr is a newer artist, and this is completely new to him, so growth is needed. His music should not take away from who he is, and credit is needed. His music helps people feel heard and understood. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Delaney Morrin – Staff Reporter

“Mamma Mia!” has been a classic for over a decade. The hit movie was released on July 18, 2008. “Mamma Mia!” is considered a Jukebox Musical Movie, featuring songs from the band ABBA. Before it was a movie, the Jukebox Musical version of “Mamma Mia!” premiered in London’s West End on April 6, 1999, and eventually opened on Broadway on October 18, 2001. A sequel to the movie was released on July 20, 2018, almost exactly 10 years after the original movie was released.

The movie kicks off with one of the main characters, Sophie, who is played by Amanda Seyfried, sending invitations to her wedding to three men. One of those three men is her father, but Sophie doesn’t know, and neither does her mom, Donna, who is played by Meryl Streep. Throughout the movie, Sophie is accompanied by her bridesmaids, Ali and Lisa, who are played by Ashley Lilley and Rachel McDowall, while Donna is accompanied by her friends, Tanya and Rosie, who are played by Christine Baranski and Julie Walters. Donna and her friends have an all-female band, Donna and the Dynamos. Sophie, Ali, and Lisa are best friends just like Donna, Tanya, and Rosie.

When the three men, Sam, Bill, and Harry, who are played by Colin Firth, Pierce Brosnan, and Stellan Skarsgård, arrive at the island, Sophie attempts to hide them from Donna until she spots them in the hotel she owns. She begins by singing “Mamma Mia!” about the three dads and how she’s missed them for years. Donna finally meets them when she accidentally falls into the room where the three dads are staying. Donna is mortified and decides to tell them to leave and to go back on Bill’s boat. This moment perfectly captures the stress and shock that Donna felt in the moment.

The three dads attempt to leave the island, just like Donna asked, until Sophie finds their boat in the water. Sophie swims to the boat and convinces them not to leave. The three dads tell Sophie about their lives and experiences with her mom by singing “Our Last Summer.” After convincing the dads to stay on the island, Sophie’s fiance, Sky, played by Dominic Cooper, finds out that Sophie invited the dads and feels betrayed. He questions her reason for the wedding by questioning “Is that what this whole big white wedding is about? You finding your dad?” Sky is losing his trust for Sophie and decides to let her figure her family problems out on her own. 

At Sophie’s bachelorette party, Donna and the Dynamos crash the party and perform as a surprise for Sophie. They play “Super Trouper” which lifts up Sophie’s mood during the party. During her performance, Donna spots the three men watching from behind the audience. Donna wasn’t expecting to see them, since she thought they left on Bill’s boat. She is very upset about the situation, which makes Sophie confess to her mom that she invited them. That night, Sophie has separate conversations with her potential dads, and they all express that they are willing to be her father and walk her down the aisle tomorrow. Sophie is even more unsure which one is her dad after their conversations. 

The day of the wedding, Sophie talks to her mom to end the tension. Sophie asks her mom to give her away instead of the dads, which brings Sophie and Donna much closer after the events that took place days before. Donna helps Sophie get ready for the wedding by singing “Slipping Through My Fingers.”, which creates a perfectly emotional and nostalgic scene, which leads us to Sophie and Sky’s wedding. 

Overall, “Mamma Mia!” is a fun, heartfelt classic that is perfect for any movie night with family or friends.

By Tiana Rosiak – Staff Reporter

HBO began airing the seven-episode second season of their show, “The Last Of Us” on April 13. The series is based on the popular video game of the same name, and the second season focuses on the 2020 installment, “The Last Of Us Part II”. 

The new season focuses directly on the aftermath of the previous season with Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie’s (Bella Ramsey) relationship as the main focus point. However, it begins with showcasing a strained relationship between the two, something that wasn’t shown in the finale of season one. Just like its predecessor, the second season focuses on themes of loss and dealing with death through the perspective of someone directly affected. The season, though, does heavily focus on relationships, specifically between protagonist Ellie and new addition Dina (Isabela Merced). 

One of the hardest things the season had to accomplish was translating the plot to screen, but they fail to do so and even when tweaking it. An adaptation is not a recreation, and the show doesn’t try to be the exact same as the game, but that’s where they fail. There are almost no similarities between the game and show other than the name. Plot lines are changed, characters don’t get the same edge they once had, timelines are switched. Rather than taking time to develop previously undeveloped characters like Jesse (Young Mazino), they add nothing and make supporting characters boring to watch. Pacing has also been one of their biggest let downs. Trying to fit a unique and layered story into less than ten hour long episodes is almost impossible to accomplish, even if they succeeded at doing it previously. Although its main plot takes place in Seattle, the viewers don’t get to see it until half of the episodes have aired, and even then, the tone and feeling the post-apocalyptic city once had in the games has been erased. Rather than the action viewers were promised, they are instead greeted by one fight scene and 55 minutes of dialogue that gets characters nowhere.

The stronger points of the season, however, revolve around music and added scenes. A lot of the music in the game, whether covers or by the original artist, were kept in the show. Featuring songs such as “Take On Me” and “Future Days” are important as they are significant to characters. The series also adds scenes that were sometimes needed. In the show, there was more focus on Issac (Jeffrey Wright), an antagonist, that they didn’t have in the game. Putting more emphasis on him and showcasing his backstory helps set him up as a villain rather than just introducing him as “bad”. The acting is another stand out in the season. Due to the emotional and hard topics, there’s always the chance that the execution can bring it down, but they don’t have this problem this season. Rather, the acting at times helped improve scenes that weren’t so great in the first place.

In general, adapting a beloved video game is a tough thing for anyone to accomplish. The creators attempted to do well, but missed heavily in their execution. Even the things that brought last season up couldn’t help the disappointment that is season two.

Rating: 1 out of 5 stars

By Calder Costantini – Staff Reporter

“Dexter” is a crime drama television series that aired on Showtime from 2006 to 2013 and was added to Paramount+ and Netflix in December 2024. The show is based on Jeff Lindsay’s novel “Darkly Dreaming Dexter” and developed by James Manos, Jr. There are eight seasons, plus three additional prequel and sequel seasons, named “Dexter: Original Sin” which follows Dexter as a teenager to put context to his crude ways. Next, there is “Dexter: New Blood,” following Dexter’s life after the original series. Finally, Paramount+ recently released “Dexter: Resurrection,” tailing Dexter’s action-packed life chronologically after “Dexter: New Blood.”

Dexter Morgan is a blood spatter analyst for Miami Metro Homicide in Miami, Florida. The show follows Dexter, who appears to be a quiet, intelligent, and socially awkward professional. Secretly, however, he is a serial killer who targets other murderers and people who have escaped justice, taught a moral code introduced to him by his adoptive father, Harry Morgan. Throughout the series, Dexter struggles to balance his two polar opposite personalities. The show blends crime investigation, dark humor, and psychological horror.

The reason “Dexter” stands out from other shows is that Dexter has a very interesting moral scheme within all of his relationships, and to put it simply, the idea of a serial killer who targets other killers and criminals is fascinating. The production is done so well that it makes audiences empathize with a serial killer who is psychologically captivating. The reason this series is so fascinating is that it makes you question the comparison between good and evil and the control of your own surroundings. Another strong point could include the outstanding acting in the show. Michael C. Hall, who plays Dexter Morgan, is perfect for Dexter. His mannerisms and subtle yet suspicious life fit write into how Dexter should be played. Hall manages to humanize a character who is morally built to be impossible to relate to anyone. Another good spin on the show is Dexter’s inner monologue. Throughout the whole series, we can hear Dexter’s thrilling and brilliant thoughts to get himself out of the deepest of situations. The monologue adds another layer to his moral compass and values as a person. The tone in which Dexter narrates this monologue can be chilling and sometimes even humorous.

The supporting cast of this series is also jaw-dropping. An actor like Jennifer Carpenter, who plays Dexter’s foul-mouthed and ambitious sister, Debra Morgan, is the perfect actor for what her role is. Debra is nothing like Dexter; she also works in the justice system as a uniform cop and soon-to-be lieutenant. She stops at nothing to arrest people who try to escape justice, and she is one of the smartest but short-tempered people in the show. Another great actor throughout the show is Julie Benz, who plays Rita Bennett, an average woman whom Dexter dates and marries. Rita has two kids, Astor and Cody, whom she had with her ex-husband. Julie Benz does a great job of making Rita the perfect stressed-out mother of two kids, who just tries to get by. Rita brings a normalcy to the show’s dark tone. Especially at the beginning of the show, Rita was a big part of humanizing Dexter and generating an audience to relate to Dexter. 

Although the production of this show is sensational, many people believe that the show gets repetitive. Through almost every episode, Dexter will find and kill a person who fits his code, and this tends to get very repetitive for some viewers. Many people also say that after Season 4, the villains get worse and the show gets more bland.

Overall, this show is one of the highest-rated and thrilling shows ever on television It is the perfect mix of horror, comedy, and drama, and the production knows exactly how to execute it. Michael C. Hall’s Hall ofFame performance in this show earned him many awards, including 5 Emmy nominations, a Golden Globe in 2010, as well as three more nominations for a Golden Globe in 2008, 2009, and 2012. Including 15+ more awards that Hall and the collective cast have won. Many people consider this one of the best shows ever aired on television – for good reason.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Evelyn Rossi – Staff Reporter 

LE SSERAFIM is a five-member K-Pop group under HYBE Entertainment, “SPAGHETTI”, their first single album. This album features the Title Track “SPAGHETTI”, which features J-Hope of BTS, and the B-side “Pearlies (My oyster is the world)”, along with remixes. Released on October 24, the album’s genre is ‘Korean Dance’ or ‘K-Pop’, and it has garnered attention for its unique sound and music video visuals. 

Ever since their debut in 2022, LE SERRAFIM have been known for their bold and experimental music. Consisting of 5 members: Sakura, Yunjin, Eunchae, Chaewon, and Kazuha, LE SSERAFIM were formed by Source Music, a Sub-Level of HYBE – the entertainment company responsible for global superstar groups like BTS, KATSEYE, and NewJeans. So far, LE SSERAFIM has had a very successful career, winning numerous awards, and many of their songs and choreographies have gone viral on social media, outside of K-pop fan spaces. 

Title Track “SPAGHETTI” has been widely accepted as a hit, as have many of the group’s songs. The song opens with an airy and somewhat serene first verse, but then dives into an intense chorus with playful lyrics. These lyrics about ‘spaghetti’ are actually a metaphor for their fame and accomplishments as a group. This can be seen in lyrics like, “This is a hot spot 숨 쉬듯 찾는 니 밥상 / 단골이 된 넌 fall in love / 참을 수 없는 맛 / 우린 in the kitchen. Cookin’ it up what you’re craving / 나의 입맛대로 saucin’ / And now the world’s gone mad (This is a hot spot / Your favorite dish, like a hot pot / You taste it once, and fall in love / And now, you can’t go back / My girls in the kitchen / We’re cookin’ it up, what you’re cravin’ / I flick my wrist, yeah I’m saucin’ / And now the world’s gone mad).” In these lyrics, we can decipher the metaphor to see that they are singing about how their music is easy to love, and largely loved by the “world.” E SSERAFIM has been proven right, as many have professed their love for J-Hope’s verse along with the catchy chorus, claiming the song is very memorable.  

The B-side “Pearlies (My oyster is the world)”, the title reinterpreting the idiom “The world is my oyster”, which is actually the title of another one of LE SSERAFIM’s B-sides. This song presents deeper lyrics, but still sticks to an upbeat feel. The song was written by LE SSERAFIM’s own Huh Hynjin, in which she discusses the girl group’s love for their fans (fandom): FEARNOTs. Netizens have even said that they prefer “Pearlies (My oyster is the world)” to “SPAGHETTI”. 

However, with widespread love will also come hate and criticism. Listeners have said that they find “SPAGHETTI” to be a “fun” track – a light-hearted way of saying the song may seem dumb, or take a few listens before one might actually “get” or enjoy the song. Some have compared the song to KATSEYE’s “Gnarly”, as they both share sportive and slight lyrics. This is ironic, considering “SPAGHETTI” is a “dish the haters” type of song. 

All in all, LE SSERAFIM’s new album “SPAGHETTI” has been seen as a huge success for them, as fans all over have found themselves replaying this hit. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Alexandra Oliveira – Staff Reporter

Tate McRae released her third studio album, “So Close To What,” in February. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200. There are 15 songs on the album and the lead single “It’s OK I’m OK” debuted at #20 on the US Billboard Hot 100, which was a new high for McRae at the time. The album consists of both upbeat songs like “Miss Possessive” and “Revolving Door” as well as slower songs like “Nostolgia”. The album has a variety of songs which makes it easy for anyone to resonate with them.

“So Close To What” explores themes of self-discovery and love from a more mature perspective. It’s an upbeat dance-pop record that shows the complexities of growing up, relationships, and finding one’s identity. While the album has fun beats it also contains vulnerable lyrics about love, jealousy, and navigating fame. The album title, as McRae explained, captures the feeling of driving without a clear destination, representing the constant pursuit of purpose in her career and life. There are three music videos for songs on the album including “Revolving Door”, “Sports Car”, and “2 Hands”. The album marks a transition from her earlier work, balancing her deep lyrics with a more pop sound.

McRae’s song, “Siren Sounds” is about being in a toxic, self-destructive relationship that everyone can see is failing, but the couple chooses to stay together, “dancing to the siren sounds” of the chaos. The song uses the metaphor “burning house” to represent their relationship, and the title refers to the “siren song”- an alluring but dangerous call that pulls them in despite the danger.

McRae’s song, “Revolving Door” uses the metaphor of a revolving door to describe the longing and frustration of a toxic, back-and-forth relationship. A powerful line from the song is “I keep coming back like a revolving door / Say I couldn’t want you less, but I just want you more”.

With the many popular female pop artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, and Gracie Abrams McRae did an amazing job finding her own style. The only weak point is that since the songs are so popular like “Sports Car” they are played everywhere which could get boring. Overall the album has catchy lyrics and fun beats that make listeners want to get up and dance. 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Molly Lynch and Ava Grippo – Advocate Editors

The latest “Superman” movie, released earlier this year, received mixed reviews. Some fans thoroughly enjoyed its optimism and strong performances by the actors, while others found the plot overly complex and inconsistent.

“Superman” was directed by James Gunn and cast were David Corenswet as Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luther, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Maria Gabriela de Faria as The Engineer, and Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher. 

This “Superman” adaptation follows Clark Kent/Superman as a startling truth is revealed to the world, and turns everyone against him. Lex Luther uses everything in his power to try to take him down. But Superman does not let this decide who he is and who he isn’t. He fights to prove to himself and others who he truly is. 

Lex Luther is a mastermind who desires to kill Superman. He has built a team and utilizes advanced technology to achieve his goals. And that is making an end to Superman. Nicholas Hoult does a great job at playing Luther and really making you despise him and his intentions. 

In this adaptation, Clark and Lois already have a semblance of a romantic relationship. The movie follows the two of them as they grow and realize their true feelings for one another. The movie lacks the development and deep connection that the two of them share in other adaptations, such as Smallville and Superman and Lois, where you get a better understanding of their relationship and how they came to be. 

Superman’s character was written well, showcasing what kind of hero he is and what makes him the same as everyone else, even if he is from another planet. Another thing that the movie lacks is the screentime of him as Clark Kent. There were only a few short scenes showcasing him as Clark. The movie was more focused on Superman than it was on Clark Kent. Both identities are important to the story, so the lack of seeing Kal-El as Clark Kent was disappointing. 

The movie felt very lackluster and included scenes that did not add anything to the overall plot. While watching, it was hard to follow along at times when side plots would come up out of nowhere. Lots of aspects of the plot, mostly ones that involved Lex Luthor, were not explained well and left many viewers confused. More explanation was needed for it to feel complete and leave no plot holes. 

“Superman” did a great job on exploring the hero side of Clark Kent: Superman, and its portrayal of the iconic villain Lex Luthor was well written and acted. The movie contained several action scenes and plot twists that kept you entertained. 

Even so, this movie did not live up to other “Superman” adaptations, as it left viewers with undeveloped characters and many questions. 

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

By Ava Grippo – Entertainment Editor 

“The Long Walk,” a movie adaption of Richard Bachman’s Stephen King novel came out on September 12 and was directed by Francis Lawrence. Ray Garraty, the main protagonist, is played by Cooper Hoffman. Other notable characters were Peter Vires (David Jonsson), Hank Olson (Ben Wang), Billy Stebbins (Garrett Wareing), Gary Barkovitch (Charlie Plummer) Arthur (Tut Nyout), Collie Parker (Joshua Odjick) and lastly, The Major (Mark Hamill). 

The movie’s story follows 50 boys who signed up and then drafted to compete in the yearly Long Walk. The Long Walk is when boys around the country are chosen to walk and keep a pace of three miles per hour. If you fall under that limit, you get a warning; three warnings and you get your ticket, which consists of a gun shot to your head. The winner of the walk is granted one wish for the rest of your life, and a grand amount of money.

The movie follows Ray Garraty as he attempts to survive the long walk. Garraty joins the long walk with a plan if he wins and is determined to follow through.  He meets Peter McVries, Hank Olson, and Arthur. Together, the four of them bond and create a group, acting as friends and motivation to one another. 

Other notable characters include Stebbins, who keeps to himself, Barkovitch, who rubs the others the wrong way, and Collie Parker, who becomes friends with the main four. 

The Major acts as the protagonist and is written as a man with no backstory, only crooked intentions. “You walk as long as you can. But sometimes the body won’t listen. For some, your heart will stop. For others, your brain. And the blood will flow…suddenly. There’s one winner and no finish line,” The Major says. 

Unfortunately, The movie falls short when it comes to explaining the lore behind the Long Walk. Not much is said about the origins or why they wanted to compete. The movie would have been better if there were more backstory and explanation about the characters and plot. 

The movie does a good job keeping viewers on their toes with many warnings and gruesome deaths, along with a few different plot twists. There’s suspense when one of the boys gets their first ticket and horror in the ugly ways they die. 

There’s heartfelt moments throughout the movie as the characters repeatedly try to save one another. “Just walk with me a little longer,” Garraty says to McVries. 

The book differs in a few aspects from the novel, which could make fans of the book disappointed with the movie, or happy with the changes. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

By Adrian Vitale — Social Media Editor

“FC26” – the newest game in the FIFA series by EA Sports – was released worldwide on September 26.

The gameplay is currently much smoother than in previous editions. The game features three frequently played modes: Pro Clubs, Career Mode, and Ultimate Team. Ultimate Team may be the most popular game mode in any “FC/FIFA” title to date. Gameplay has improved this year, while still revolving around the same core premise as previous installments – you play matches with your personally built team, featuring both new and legendary players. Team chemistry continues to depend on club and nationality. Just like in past versions, the gameplay foundation remains the same, but it now feels smoother, with a wider variety of play styles being effective, unlike earlier games where only one style of play could keep you competitive.

Another game mode that has recently grown in popularity is Pro Clubs. In this mode, you create your own character and upgrade stats such as shooting, passing, defending, physicality, and pace. You can take your created player to compete on a team with other people – often your friends. The mode offers several ways to play, including league matches, where your team competes against others within your division.

The final mode, Career Mode, has been more of an acquired taste, with a smaller but loyal player base. Some fans return to each new installment primarily for this mode. It’s a solid experience that allows you to manage your own player — train them, choose their transfers, and play through matches with professional teams.

Overall, “FC26” has proven to be a strong improvement over previous installments in the franchise.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Connor Ryan and Dylan Gaillard – Advocate Editors

“NBA 2K26” is the latest basketball game in the “2K” series, and it has definitely been a solid addition. It has realistic gameplay, improved graphics, and a few new features to the table, but they haven’t changed the game completely.

Most importantly, the graphics this year are much improved from “NBA 2K25.” The movement and shot meters this year are visually much cleaner and with no delay. Lighting this year is also great in all game modes.

There are many game modes in “NBA 2K26” but the most played one is MyCareer. Behind it is MyTeam where you try and get players to build a team of NBA stars and compete vs other teams of NBA stars. There is a game mode that is played now where you can play with teams 5v5 against your friends and online. 

The worst part about the game so far is the MyCareer game mode builds. Users this year are making 7’4″ builds which can do almost everything in the game. They can shoot almost over any build in the game besides another 7’4″ player. They can dribble, shoot, pass, and make dunks and layups. Their rebounding isn’t the best to be 7-feet-tall but it definitely gets the job done. The area it is most broken in is the 3s game mode in MyCareer. They can set screens for the point guard then either roll to the rim or pop to the three point line. Even with defenders jumping with their hands up it’s still almost impossible to even get the littlest bit of contest with the tall jump shot of the 7’4″ player.

Lastly, the best part of the game so far is definitely the shooting this year. Last year, they made it so it is literally impossible to go 7/7 shooting. This was called RNG shooting and they decided to remove it this year making it so you can now go 7/7. The one problem they have run into with this is the people who use cheats. The cheat that you can use in 2K is called Zen. All you have to do is tap a button and then the shot will go in with it being great tempo every time.

Overall, “NBA 2K26” has been a blast for gamers around the world and is easily the best “2K” in the last few years. They just have to fix the contests on bigs and somehow ban the “Zenners.”

By Logan Thomas – Entertainment Editor

The recently-released comedy “Happy Gilmore 2” is a sequel to the 1996 original film “Happy Gilmore.” It stars Adam Sandler and is directed by Kyle Newacheck. The movie is based on the original film and has somewhat of the same plot. It follows a character named Happy Gilmore as he tries to make a comeback to the golf world after many years in retirement, and tries to stop the cheating Maxi League.

The movie starts with an older Happy Gilmore now dealing with the consequences of the past. The reason for Gilmore’s return to golf is to raise money for his daughter’s expensive ballet school. Without Shooter McGavin to compete against this time around, a new rival comes into play. This new rival is called the Maxi League, which plays a whole new style of golf that nobody wants. There are also many cameos included that make this film great.

“Happy Gilmore 2” had several strengths. First off, this movie is very nostalgic. There are many iconic moments and characters like Shooter McGavin and Chubbs’s son. The film also includes lots of humor with jokes from the original and new jokes from new characters. The biggest strong point of this movie is the number of cameos involved, which included professional golfers Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and John Daly. These characters also play big roles, while being on the team to stop the Maxi League from continuing. There were also many hilarious and iconic jokes said by these players that make this film all come together.

On the other hand, there are a few weak points in the film. “Happy Gilmore 2” had too many flashbacks that made the movie difficult to follow. Some people might like this. The plot of the movie was not the best either and pales in comparison to the original.

Overall, “Happy Gilmore 2” is a great sequel. People who enjoy watching the original will love the jokes and comedy scenes referring back to the original. In the end, this would be a great movie to watch with a bowl of popcorn by your side.

By Ava Grippo – Entertainment Editor

“Sunrise on the Reaping” is a dystopian novel and the newest addition to the “Hunger Games” series written by Suzanne Collins. The novel came out on March 18. “Sunrise on the Reaping” is a prequel to the “Hunger Games” series that follows the beloved character Haymitch Abernathy. 

The novel follows Haymitch’s game during the 50th quarter quell. He is one of four tributes reaped from District 12 to participate in the yearly hunger games.  Haymitch lives with his mother and brother, and is in a relationship with a girl named Lenore Dove, also from District 12, who he is madly in love with. Haymitch says, “The two things I love best – wasting time and being with my girl, Lenore Dove”. The story starts off on Reaping Day, which also happens to be Haymitch’s birthday. Haymitch is headstrong, and knows what he wants. He is not afraid to stand up for his girl. He takes good care of his siblings and helps his mother, much like Katniss did in the original trilogy. 

The other tributes reaped were Maysilee, a wealthy girl from District 12 whose family owns a candy shop; Wyatt, who is an oddsmaker; and Louella, Haymitch’s neighbor. The four of them start off the wrong foot, but as the story goes on, they learn to come together and trust one another. 

Collins does a great job at making you fall in love with the characters. Maysilee is sassy and endearing, making Haymitch second guess what he originally thought of her. Wyatt is a smart, caring guy who proves himself to be extremely loyal. Louella is a sweet, loving girl. Haymitch’s relationship with each of them entices readers, helping them fall in love with all four of the District 12 tributes. 

As readers follow Haymitch’s story, they get a better insight into what happened during his games. Haymitch is determined to write his own poster and stand up to the capitol. “They will not use my tears for their entertainment,” Haymitch says. Collins does a fabulous job keeping the readers on edge and invested in the story with gruesome deaths and plot twists. Haymitch’s story is a heartbreaking one, leaving no room for happiness. 

“Sunrise On The Reaping” does a great job showing Haymitch’s journey and how he went from a boy just trying his best to take care of his family to becoming the drunken mentor we first met in “The Hunger Games.”

By Amilio Venditti & Brady O’Neil – Staff Reporters

For over a decade, “Minecraft” has captured the imaginations of millions of players with its blocky landscapes and limitless creations. Now, Minecraft has left the game itself and hopped onto the big screen. The movie, directed by Jared Hess and written by Chris Bowman, stars Jason Momoa as Garett Garrison, Jack Black as Steve, Danielle Brooks as Dawn, Emma Myers as Nataile, and Sebastian Hansen as Henry. In the film, four misfits are pulled through a portal into a Minecraft world and must embark on a quest back to the real world with the help of Steve, the guide.

The Minecraft movie has been a box office hit. On opening weekend, it debuted by making a record-breaking $157 million domestically. In global earnings, as of April 29, the movie has grossed $818.5 million worldwide, making it the top-grossing film of 2025 so far. One standout moment from the film features Jack Black’s character, Steve, yelling “Chicken jockey!” The phrase quickly became a viral meme. TikTok was flooded with videos of fans shouting the line. When “Chicken Jockey” appeared on screen in one theater, the audience’s reaction was crazy. Popcorn flew everywhere while everyone was jumping up and down. Leaving the theater was absolutely disgusting, with food and drink everywhere. On top of that, some moviegoers brought some real chickens into the theater as well as real fireworks, which caused mayhem. Many attendees pulled out their phones to record the moment, posting it on TikTok or Instagram with hashtags like #ChickenJockey and #MinecraftMovie. 

Overall, “Minecraft” was a really enjoyable movie from start to finish and truly lived up to expectations. The community surrounding the film did an excellent job hyping up the film as well. The creators of the film purposely made the trailers subpar, and cast actors who fans didn’t feel would do a good job at correctly portraying the characters in the game. But this ended up being a blessing in disguise. The fans of the game created that hype, and combined their love for the game and clips in the film to make a rare and enjoyable theatre experience. The graphics team also did an amazing job of taking features from the game and incorporating them into the movie. The movie looked like a real “Minecraft” world.

“Minecraft” was a perfect reenactment and depiction of the game. It will fulfill many people’s childhood dream, being able to watch their favorite video game on the big screen.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Aaryan Doshi – Staff Reporter

“Big Daddy” is a funny and heartfelt comedy movie starring Adam Sandler as Sonny Koufax, a lazy 32-year-old man who doesn’t want to grow up. He spends most of his time sleeping in, avoiding real work, and hanging out with his goofy friends. One day, his life suddenly changed when a 5-year-old boy named Julian was dropped off at his apartment. The child was supposed to be left with Sonny’s roommate, but Sonny decides to take care of him to impress his ex-girlfriend and prove that he’s responsible. As the story goes on, Sonny tries to be a parent in his own strange way, letting Julian do whatever he wants at first, but eventually learning what it means to really care for someone else. Their bond grows stronger throughout the movie, and it leads to both funny and emotional moments.

Big Daddy was released in the summer of 1999 and became one of the biggest hits of that year. It was directed by Dennis Dugan, who has worked with Adam Sandler on many movies like Happy Gilmore and Grown Ups. This movie came out during a time when Sandler was becoming very popular for his goofy comedy style, and Big Daddy helped show that he could also handle more serious roles with emotional moments. The character of Julian is played by real-life twins Dylan and Cole Sprouse, who were only six years old when the movie was made. Viewers might recognize them from Disney Channel’s “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody. 

One of the strongest parts of “Big Daddy” is how funny many of the scenes are. There are lots of laugh-out-loud scenes, like when Sonny lets Julian choose his own name (“Frankenstein”), dress himself in wild costumes, or learn life lessons from TV instead of school. These moments are silly but fun to watch. At the same time, the movie shows a more serious side as Sonny begins to really care about Julian. He goes from being irresponsible and selfish to becoming someone who truly wants to be a good father figure. 

Adam Sandler’s performance is also a highlight. He’s known for being loud and goofy, but in this movie, he shows a more emotional side. Viewers can tell that he genuinely cares about Julian, and their bond feels real. The film also teaches some nice life lessons about growing up, taking responsibility, and how love can come from unexpected places.

Even though Big Daddy has a lot of great moments, it’s not perfect. Some of the humor might feel too immature or over-the-top, especially if viewers don’t like potty jokes or silly behavior. A few scenes might make some viewers roll their eyes instead of laugh. Also, the story is a bit predictable. People can probably guess how it will end after watching the first half. It follows a familiar formula of someone learning to grow up through an unexpected situation.

Another weak point is that some of the side characters aren’t developed very well. For example, Sonny’s friends and ex-girlfriend don’t have much depth, and they mostly serve as background or comic relief. While they add a few laughs, they don’t really make the story stronger. Still, the focus is mostly on Sonny and Julian, and their story is the heart of the movie.

Overall, Big Daddy is a fun and heartfelt movie that shows how someone can change for the better when they care about someone else. It’s a mix of comedy, emotion, and life lessons that make it enjoyable for teens and adults alike. Adam Sandler brings a great mix of humor and heart, and the chemistry between him and young Julian is what makes the movie so special. Even though it has a few flaws, like some immature jokes and a predictable plot, it’s still a very entertaining movie that leaves viewers smiling by the end. If viewers in the mood for a comedy with a little bit of heart, “Big Daddy” is definitely worth a watch.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Logan Thomas – Staff Reporter

The film “Hustle” is a sports drama movie released in 2022 starring Adam Sandler. It was directed by Jeremiah Zagar and was produced by LeBron James. It follows the story of a basketball scout for the Philadelphia 76ers trying to make a statement with a great player. Sandler, who is well-known for his comedy, plays a serious role in this film.

The movie follows the story of Stanley Sugarman, played by Adam Sandler. Stanley is always tired of traveling around the world and just wants to become a coach instead. After traveling to Spain, he finds a young and talented player named Bo Cruz. Bo is capable of making any move he wants in the court while being lengthy and agile. Stanley brings Bo under his wing after lots of convincing. Stanley wants to bring him to the NBA. The movie shows their struggles and challenges along the way, and how their relationships change throughout their training. 

There are multiple strong points about this film. One of them is the acting part. Adam Sandler did a great job playing the serious role. Juancho Hernangómez, a real NBA player who played Bo Cruz, is very good at acting. The movie feels real and emotional, especially during the training scenes and setbacks. Another great aspect of the movie is that they included real active NBA players. They included Anthony Edwards playing Kermit Wilts, Trae Young playing himself, and many others. Those players are some of the top players in the league currently, and that is why the movie felt so real and active.

Even though the movie was fantastic and entertaining, the movie has some weak points. Unfortunately, it relies very heavily on basketball knowledge. If viewers don’t know much about the sport, some scenes would be confusing and not exciting. Another issue is that there are too many scenes with cameos of NBA players. It is great that they get them involved, but putting famous players’ cameos in a movie can get a bit boring and not entertaining. 

Overall, “Hustle” is a great movie for people who love the game of basketball and inspirational stories. It shows how hard it is to succeed, but also shows how powerful it is to believe. Sandler plays a fantastic role in the film and portrays a great message for young players. 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Aiden Ramos – Staff Reporter 

The new season of “Invincible” has finally been released, and it does not disappoint. It picks up right where Season 1 left off, with Mark Grayson wrestling with the emotional devastation of his father’s betrayal and attempting to discover what sort of hero he wishes to become. The show continues to be full of gory fights, surprising plot twists, and poignant character moments that set it apart from other superhero epics, on TV and in comics.

Perhaps the highlight of the season is that it gets a perfect balance between action and emotion. The fight scenes are no more gory and bloody than they have ever been, with focus on the savage power of characters and their skill. The real emotional heart of the show, though, is the complicated family dynamics and how Mark, his mother Debbie, and the people who surround him handle everything that has happened. That character development brings depth to the show, and what happens can connect on a different level with the audience. There are also some great new characters being added, along with huge reveals that will surely keep viewers hooked and eagerly waiting for every episode.

The animation this season looks even better, making action sequences appear smoother and more cinematic, which makes for a better viewing experience overall. Voice work is also superb, with Steven Yeun (Mark) and Sandra Oh (Debbie) bringing a lot of emotion to their characters, making them feel real and alive. The only minor complaint is that some of the episodes do feel a little slower in terms of pacing, but the payoff is always worth it.

Overall, “Invincible” Season 2 is just as great as the first, if not greater. It’s still one of the best superhero shows out there, with jaw-dropping moments, emotional depth, and action-packed fight scenes. If viewers loved Season 1, they’ll love this one just the same, as it builds on the themes and storylines that made the first season so well-liked while introducing new elements that keep the story fresh and surprising.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Connor Ryan – Staff Reporter

The recently-released “MLB The Show 25” is more of the same good baseball action, but it doesn’t make the great leap forward that fans were likely hoping for. While the graphics and animations continue to improve, some aspects of the gameplay – hitting, especially – have  taken a step backward. Series veterans will still find plenty to love, but the issues with the game are bound to annoy some.

Visually, “MLB The Show 25” is as beautiful as ever. Movement of the players is smooth, stadiums are complete with minute details, and lighting and shadows progress naturally throughout the duration of games. Jersey mannerisms and fans’ reactions are impressive, as each game ends up resembling a real broadcast. Player models for stars are excellent, but some of the less popular players still don’t get the same treatment.

Gameplay has long been the series’ strength, and while fielding and pitching remain solid, hitting is less this year. The exit velocities are slower, and even well-timed swings tend to make weak contact. The power on perfect swings also seems inconsistent, making it more difficult to string together some offense. This element makes hitting less satisfying and more frustrating because hard-hit balls do not always receive the results that they should. While timing and strategy are still crucial components, the unpredictability of hitting mechanics makes the offensive side of the game difficult. 

Franchise Mode and Road to the Show have many changes. Franchise Mode is a mode in the game where users play as the coach and players. The goal is to try to win the World Series managing that team and playing as the players. Road to the Show has huge changes. They added both high school and college baseball to the game, and they also added the type of bat you use wood or metal. They both received massive changes. Diamond Dynasty is still a major focus, with plenty of customization, but grinding for top players remains a time-consuming task unless users are willing to spend money.

Overall, “MLB The Show 25” is still the best baseball game, but it doesn’t take the franchise to new levels. The graphics and animations continue to impress, and pitching and fielding are refined, but the frustrating hitting mechanics knock it down a bit. Fans of the series will likely still enjoy it, but absent significant improvements, it may not feel like a must-buy for those seeking a significant upgrade.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Aaryan Doshi – Staff Reporter

“Dumb and Dumber” is a comedy released in 1994. It was directed by Peter Farrelly and stars Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels. The movie quickly became a favorite because of its silly humor and funny characters. Jim Carrey was already known for his comedy, and this movie made him even more popular. It has remained a classic for people who love goofy, lighthearted films.

The movie is about two best friends, Lloyd Christmas (Jim Carrey) and Harry Dunne (Jeff Daniels), who aren’t very smart but have big hearts. They take a road trip to return a briefcase to a woman Lloyd likes. Along the way, they get into a lot of crazy situations and accidentally get involved in a crime without realizing it. Their journey is full of mistakes, misunderstandings, and ridiculous moments that make the movie entertaining. The story is simple, but it leads to a lot of funny moments that keep the audience engaged.

One of the best things about Dumb and Dumber is how funny it is. Jim Carrey is amazing at making silly faces and acting in a way that makes people laugh. Jeff Daniels, who usually does serious roles, is just as funny and works really well with Carrey. Their friendship makes the movie fun to watch. The movie’s jokes are silly and lighthearted. It doesn’t try to be too serious, which makes it great for just relaxing and having a good laugh. The scenes are full of crazy situations, and there are a lot of lines that people still quote today. The fast pace of the movie also keeps it exciting, with new funny things happening all the time. Another strong point is how memorable the movie is. Even years after watching it, people remember the jokes, the funny moments, and the goofy characters. The film has become one of those comedies that people can watch over and over again and still find funny.

Even though the movie is hilarious, some people might not like its over-the-top humor. Some of the jokes might feel a little old-fashioned today. If the movie were made now, they might change a few things to make it feel more modern. Also, some of the characters don’t have much development. While that’s not a big deal in a comedy, it would have been nice to see a little more personality from some of the side characters. The villains, for example, are mostly there to move the story forward and don’t have much depth. Another small issue is that some of the humor relies on secondhand embarrassment, which might not be enjoyable for everyone. Some scenes make audiences cringe because of how clueless the characters are, but that’s also what makes the movie so unique and funny.

“Dumb and Dumber” is a super funny movie that is great if people just want to laugh and not take things too seriously. Carrey and Daniels are perfect together, and their goofy friendship makes the movie special. “Dumb and Dumber” is a comedy classic that still holds up today. It’s the kind of movie that makes people forget about their worries and just enjoy a good laugh.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Logan Thomas – Staff Reporter

“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is a comedy film directed by John Hughes. It was filmed in 1986 and became an iconic movie for high school students. Starring Matthew Broderick as Ferris Bueller, the film captures the rebellious spirit of a high school student and his need to break free from the classroom. John Hughes, the director known for portraying teenage life in films, shows up in many films including “Sixteen Candles” and more. With its humor and action scenes, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” remains a classic in American film. 

The film follows Ferris Bueller, a clever high school senior who fakes a sickness to skip school and enjoy a day of adventure in Chicago. Alongside his best friend Cameron, played by Alan Ruck, and his girlfriend Sloane, portrayed by Mia Sara, Ferris goes on a trip of fun activities and antics, including dining at an upscale restaurant to joining a city parade and eventually signing in. In the meantime, his sister Jeanie, played by Jennifer Grey, and his Principal, Mr. Rooney, played by Jeffrey Jone, is determined to catch Ferris in the act of skipping school while still going through with comedic jokes and funny actions from the actors. 

One of the strong points of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is that the main character, Ferris, is very engaging and comedic, which grabs the viewer’s attention. Another strong point is that Ferris directly talks to the viewers which adds a unique and humorous part to the storytelling. Additionally, the setting of Chicago provides a cool background with memorable scenes at iconic locations like Wrigley Field. The other cast members, particularly Alan Ruck, who plays scared and emotional Cameron, add more comedy and uptight scenes, balancing comedic scenes with uptight scenes.

While the film is very well-liked, some viewers may find certain characters underwhelming. Compared to Ferris and Cameron, Sloane lacks many traits that fully develop her character and the film.  To add on, the exaggeration of Principal Rooney’s relentless journey of Ferris tends to feel very repetitive. Otherwise, the film stands strong.

Overall, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is a delightful and entertaining film that captures the viewer’s eye. Its dialogue and memorable scenes ensure the appeal of the audience.  Despite minor weaknesses, this film is one for the books. Whether watched for the first time or watched for the third time, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” remains a great teen comedy that continues to appeal to audiences worldwide.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Vaughn Kraynak – Staff Reporter

“The Other Guys” is a hilarious action-comedy film directed by Adam McKay and released in 2010. Iconic actors Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg star in the movie alongside Dwayne Johnson, Eva Mendes, Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Keaton. The movie combines smart and witty humor with intense action to create a unique and exciting story. It was a quick success due to it’s blend of a cop thriller and genius comedic timing. 

“The Other Guys” is about two cops, Allen and Terry, who are forced to work desk jobs after messing up big cases early in their careers and are banned from working on patrol. After accidentally discovering a huge financial crime scheme, they get the opportunity to prove themselves as real cops. The movie follows Allen and Terry’s journey as their friendship blossoms through the hardships of the dangerous case they unexpectedly found themselves in the middle of. The movie integrates humor into the action scenes as Allen and Terry attempt to redeem themselves. 

One of the best aspects of the movie is the hysterical cast, led by comedy staples Ferrell and Wahlberg. The film is able to perfectly mix the comedic moments with the action packed scenes to keep the audience engaged and laughing at all times. The take on the infamous “buddy cop” genre of movies works amazingly well, with Allen taking shots from Terry throughout the story but ultimately finds himself as the hero. The movie also brings out a surprising and heartwarming theme of personal growth from caring for your friends. 

Although “The Other Guys” is packed full of great action and comedy, the plot becomes easily predictable and some storylines feel like they are forgotten about halfway through the movie. Also, some jokes feel forced during non-comedic scenes and other jokes just become extremely repetitive. The movie has some awesome laugh-out-loud moments but a few jokes don’t land as well as others and feel sort of flat. Even though the comedy isn’t perfect, it definitely cannot be considered bad when Ferrell and Wahlberg are the ones delivering the jokes. 

“The Other Guys” is a great film if you are looking for a comedy movie that can also fulfill your needs for awesome action scenes. Wahlberg and Ferrell really bring the movie to it’s best potential due to their perfect comedic timing and representations of their characters. Even if the story can be predictable at some points, the movie can still surprise viewers at other times and is an entertaining watch. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Logan Thomas – Staff Reporter

“Red Notice” is an action-comedy film directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber which stars Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot. The movie contains scenes of high-stakes heists, chase sequences, and comedy. 

In the film, John Hartley, an FBI profiler, switched to the bad side to work with wanted art thieves, Nolan Booth and The Bishop. Booth and Hartley were eventually caught and sent to a high-security prison. Both of them worked together to escape. Booth, Hartley, and The Bishop all wanted one thing. But it was almost impossible to get it. They all were going after the third egg of Cleopatra. The egg was covered in gold and diamonds. At first, Booth and Hartley were not on the same team as the Bishop. But once they worked together they got the egg and were successful. After all this, the FBI was still never able to catch them.

This film had many strong points that made it enjoyable to watch. Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot bring their signature styles to the film. Dwayne Johnson’s heroic acting, Ryan Reynolds’ comedic timing, and Gal Gadot’s charm create a fun and dynamic film that is entertaining to watch. In the film, there are many action scenes that get the viewer’s attention. 

The scenes consist of thrilling chase scenes, heists, and fighting. There were also exotic locations including caves and hideouts that were thrilling to see. In the film, there were also scenic views of the ocean and ancient buildings. 

Even though the film excels in action and comedy, the plot of the movie is not always easy to follow. There are multiple scenes that are quite confusing. Sometimes viewers are also able to predict what is going to happen. There are multiple times in the movie where there are familiar heists and scenes. The chemistry between the actors felt off throughout the movie as well; it seems like there are forced scenes and jokes that have been repeated.

Overall, this action comedy film is very entertaining to watch with many scenes that are quite enjoyable. If you want a movie that is filled with funny jokes and action scenes you have come to the right spot. Overall, this film is an amazing watch with a bowl of popcorn in your lap.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Aaryan Doshi – Staff Reporter

“The Out-Laws” is a 2023 action-comedy film directed by Tyler Spindel and produced by Adam Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions. Starring Adam Devine, Pierce Brosnan, Ellen Barkin, and Nina Dobrev. The film blends action, humor, and family chaos into an entertaining ride. With its mix of heist elements and laugh-out-loud moments, “The Out-Laws” quickly became a fan favorite on Netflix.

The movie is about Owen Browning, a nerdy bank manager who is about to marry his fiancée, Parker. Everything seems perfect until his bank gets robbed by a group known as the Ghost Bandits. The timing is suspicious because it happens right after he meets Parker’s parents, Billy and Lilly McDermott, who seem a little too mysterious. Owen starts putting the pieces together and begins to wonder, could his future in-laws actually be the bank robbers? As he tries to find out the truth, he gets pulled into a crazy journey full of surprises, action, and hilarious moments.

One of the best aspects of “The Out-Laws” is its successful blend of action and comedy. Owen’s awkward and clumsy personality leads to many funny situations, especially when he interacts with Billy and Lilly, who are incredibly cool and confident. Their interactions are hilarious, and the jokes keep coming throughout the movie. The action scenes are also very exciting, featuring car chases, explosions, and intense moments that make the film enjoyable to watch. Although it’s an action movie, it maintains a lighthearted tone, making it easy to appreciate. Additionally, the relationship between Owen and his future in-laws adds a nice touch, demonstrating that even the most unconventional families can share strong bonds.

While “The Out-Laws” is undeniably entertaining, some of the humor may feel a bit predictable or over-the-top for certain people. The film leans heavily on comedy, which, while effective, might not appeal to those who prefer more subtle or clever humor. Additionally, the plot is fairly straightforward, and some parts are easy to predict. However, these minor flaws do not take away from the overall fun experience.

In the end, “The Out-Laws” is a great choice if you want a movie that’s funny, exciting, and full of action. It may not have the most surprising story, but it makes up for it with great humor and fun characters. If movie-goers are looking for something to make them laugh and keep them entertained, “The Out-Laws” is a great pick.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Brady O’Neil – Staff Reporter

“MLB The Show ’24” is the latest baseball game in the series, and it’s definitely a solid addition. It brings realistic gameplay, improved graphics, and a few new features to the table, but it doesn’t exactly change the game in a huge way. Fans of baseball and the series will enjoy it, but it may feel a little too familiar for some.

The graphics in this year’s game are really impressive. Player animations look super smooth, and the stadiums are full of little details that make them feel alive. From fans waving in the stands to the shadows changing as the game goes on, it all looks like a real baseball game. Even the way players’ jerseys move looks realistic, which is a nice touch. The faces of most players look spot-on, though a few less popular ones don’t look as well animated as others.

The gameplay is where “MLB: The Show” always shines, and it’s no different here. Hitting and pitching feel great, and fielding seems better this year, especially with diving plays and animations being smoother. The game rewards timing and strategy, which makes every at-bat and pitch feel important. The different difficulty options also make it easy for beginners to pick up while still being challenging for experienced players.

Modes like Franchise and Road to the Show are back, and they’re still fun, but they don’t feel all that different from last year. Franchise Mode lets you take control of a team and manage everything from trades to lineups, while Road to the Show lets you create a player and take them through their career. Both are still good but could use some fresh ideas. Diamond Dynasty is where a lot of people spend their time, and it’s fun to build a dream team, but grinding for top players takes a lot of time unless you’re willing to spend real money.

Overall, “MLB The Show ’24” does a lot of things right but doesn’t do much to stand out compared to last year’s game. It’s still the best baseball game out there and worth playing, but it might not feel like a huge step forward. For baseball fans, though, it’s hard to beat.

By Aiden Ramos and Christian Galligan – Staff Reporters 

The new “Fortnite OG” mode launched on December 6 and has sent waves of excitement through the gaming community. Designed to recreate the original Chapter 1 experience, this mode reintroduces iconic locations, the classic loot pool, and nostalgic gameplay elements while incorporating modern features that enhance the overall experience.  

Players are transported back to beloved locations like Pleasant Park, Salty Springs, Retail Row, and Anarchy Acres, each bringing back memories for longtime fans and players. The simpler aesthetics of the graphics perfectly echo the original game, yet subtle modern improvements keep the visuals sharp and immersive. Weapon sounds, like the satisfying crack of the pump shotgun or the burst of the assault rifle, evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia, immersing players in the charm of early “Fortnite.” 

However, as many non-players see it, this isn’t just a walk down memory lane. Modern mechanics like sprinting, sliding, mantling, and healing while moving have been seamlessly integrated, offering smoother and more tactical, and much more understandable gameplay. Features such as Reboot Vans and visual indicators for sniper scopes strike a balance between preserving the essence of Chapter 1 and meeting current player expectations. This combination ensures that “Fortnite OG” isn’t just a nostalgic experience but also a competitive one that caters to both veterans and new players.  

Despite its many strengths, “Fortnite OG” isn’t without its frustrations, much like the original game. The loot pool, while faithful to the original, feels overly scarce. Common and uncommon weapons dominate the battlefield, making higher-rarity loot a rare find. Additionally, the absence of mini-shields limits healing options. With only big pots and slurp juices available, players often find themselves vulnerable during critical moments. While this mirrors the challenges of the original gameplay, it can occasionally detract from the fun, particularly for players accustomed to the variety and availability of modern Fortnite loot.  

“Fortnite OG” delivers the magic of its early days while embracing the quality-of-life improvements developed over the years. Blending nostalgia with modern mechanics creates an experience that feels both familiar and fresh. The challenges presented by the limited loot pool add a layer of difficulty that may frustrate some but also heighten the intensity of matches. For longtime fans, “Fortnite OG” is a thrilling return to where it all began. For newer players, it’s a unique opportunity for them to experience the roots of this cultural phenomenon.  

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Ava Grippo – Entertainment Editor

“Truly Devious” is a mystery YA novel written by Marueen Johnson and published on January 16th, 2018. “Truly Devious” is the first book in the series. The story follows the main character, Stevie Bell, who gets accepted into Ellingham Academy, a boarding school in the Vermont mountains. Years ago, there was a kidnapping and murder of the school’s founder’s wife and child. Ever since Stevie discovered the case, she has been obsessed with solving it. 

When Stevie is accepted, she’s beyond thrilled, as this is her chance to really solve the case. When she arrives, she meets her new house members, Janelle, Nate, Hayes, David and Ellie. The five of them couldn’t be more different. 

“Truly Devious” is quite descriptive, not lacking in any details of the scenes. The story follows a more plot driven storyline, but even so, falling in love with the characters is quite possible. Janelle is a kind, outgoing girl whose talent is building things. Nate, an introverted writer. Hayes, an egotistical actor. David, a wild video game creator, and Ellie, the funky artist. 

This book has many character relationships to root for. Stevie and Janelle grow into best friends. The two of them are always there for one another, always supportive. Stevie and Nate create a bond through their share of social anxiety and Stevie and David can’t help but be attracted to one another. 

When one of the students at Ellingham is murdered, Stevie’s desire to solve cases intensifies. Stevie wants to find the truth, and figure out, is this murder connected to the ones in the past? 

Stevie is portrayed as a true crime fanatic, but through her layers, she deals with ongoing panic attacks and anxiety. She doesn’t let anything get in her way of investing the truth, though. Stevie is not afraid to take risks to fill her desires. She had always wanted to be a part of an investigation, but she’s not sure being a part of one lives up to what she dreamed of. 

Stevie’s thoughts include, “That was something they taught you in anxiety therapy – the thoughts may come, but you don’t have to chase them all. It was sort of the opposite of good detective work, in which you had to follow every lead.”

Throughout the stories, there are flashbacks to the time of the first crime, where readers get an inside look of what happened and how the characters felt. The book is a mix between the past and present, both keeping readers on their toes about the past and current mystery. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Ava Grippo – Entertainment Editor

“Wayne” is a comedy TV show that first aired on January 16, 2019 on YouTube Premium. The show was created by Shawn Simmoms and produced by John Ryan and Daniel Hank and stars Mark McKenna and Ciara Bravo as the main characters, Wayne and Del. 

The show consists of 10 episodes and follows Wayne, a troubled 16-year-old whose plan is to travel to Florida to find the car that his father had kept for him until his mother took it with her as she left. Del, Wayne’s new crush, joins him on this adventure. 

When the two head off, Del’s father and brothers claim that she was kidnapped by Wayne, causing the three of them to head off to Florida to find them. Del’s family aren’t the only ones after the two kids. Two other groups head down to Florida in search of Wayne: Police Sergeant Stephen Geller, along with his partner, Wayne’s best friend, and principal team up together in pursuit. 

Wayne is not a typical main male character. He’s quiet, but loud with his actions. Throughout the show, he carries an “I don’t care” attitude, but really has a heart of gold. 

There are many prime examples of this, such as when he is at a store, picking up tampons for Del, he witnesses a man harassing his girlfriend. Wayne responds to this by smashing the man’s bike with a baseball bat. Del matches Wayne’s determination and impulsiveness. 

The two of them are not afraid to go after what they want, even if it is done with questionable actions. 

“Hey..do you wanna cut some snakes in half with a shovel?” Del asks Wayne.

“..Yes” replies Wayne. 

Wayne and Del’s journey is a chaotic one as they travel south. Along the way they meet many people, for good and bad. They two get caught up in mess after mess. Watching the two fall in love over the course of their adventures is the core of the series. Between getting separated and beaten up, the two always find a way back to each other. 

One of the most romantic scenes in the series is when Del meets these two girls that invite her to their school dance. Wayne originally says he will not go, and leaves, but after some thinking and realizing how much he cares about Del, he dresses up in the suit the girls had picked for him and shows up at the school, busts some moves, and asks Del to dance with him. 

Wayne does a great job keeping viewers hooked in the story and wondering what Wayne and Del will get tangled in next. It’s funny, enticing, and dramatic. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Brady O’Neil – Staff Reporter

Netflix’s “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” tells the story of two brothers who made headlines in 1989 for killing their parents in their Hollywood mansion. Created by Ryan Murphy, the show explores whether the brothers were driven by years of sexual and verbal abuse, or killed their parents for the sole purpose of gaining their inheritance. 

In the series, Lyle and Erik Menendez, played by Nicholas Alexander Chavez and Cooper Koch, aren’t portrayed as just heartless killers. Instead, Murphy explores whether the brothers acted out of revenge after years of alleged abuse by their father. The brothers claim that José Menendez was physically and sexually abusive, leading them to believe that they had no other way out. This changes how we view them and adds to their personalities, making them seem like victims and violators. However, because the accusations were made after Kitty and Jose were killed, it makes it much more difficult to believe that the brothers didn’t kill their parents for the money. 

One of the best parts of the series is how it shows the media interest that came with the case. Back in the 1990s, this was one of the first murder trials that was broadcast on TV, which turned the Menendez brothers into household names. Journalists and the public couldn’t get enough of the drama, and the series captures that with scenes showing reporters camping outside the courthouse and debates on TV about whether the brothers were innocent victims or cold-blooded killers. It also brings up how the media can influence people’s views on high-profile cases, sometimes making it hard to see the full truth. This can be seen at the end of the first trial, where an overflow of outside influences caused a mistrial.

Despite its interesting story, others argue that “Monsters” crosses the line and adds unproven details to the story, like an alleged relationship between the brothers. This feels like it was included there to spike viewer interest, which has upset some people who think this part isn’t true. However, the series does bring awareness to male abuse, a topic that’s rarely discussed in the same way as female abuse. Murphy also uses flashbacks and intense close-up shots, especially in scenes where Erik opens up about his trauma. Even if the show sometimes goes overboard with the drama, the series was very interesting and is a must-watch.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars