By Isabela Roldan – Staff Reporter

Combine a creepy forest, a pretty female lead, supernatural horror, along with inspiration from true events and you have the means for a perfect thriller film.

Director Jason Zada has high hopes for his first major full-length film, “The Forest,” which will be released on January 8, 2016.

The movie is set in the Japanese mountains of Aokigahara, also named the Suicide Forest, where a young woman by the name of Sara goes in search of uncovering the mystery of her twin sister’s sudden disappearance. Going against the advice of others to not “stray from the path,” Sara enters the forest determined, only to be confronted by the exasperated souls that target anyone who enters.

Film star Natalie Dormer more commonly known for playing the roles of Margaery Tyrell in “Game of Thrones” and Cressida in “The Hunger Games,” will be starring as the main protagonist, Sara Price.

Dormer will be accompanied by her co-star Taylor Kinney who starred in movies such as “The Other Woman” and “Rock the Kasbah,” in order to fill the role of the expatriate, Aiden.

“It’s very exciting watching this film come together and working with all of the immensely talented people that have joined us,” Zada said.

The movie’s trailer previews just a few of the supernatural happenings done upon Sara, including  whispering of her name and hallucinations of her being pulled into the earth by tree roots.

While the movie’s main plot of a girl in search of her missing sister is false, the haunted forest of Aokigahara is, in fact, real.

“’The Forest’ will be a cinematic journey to a dark and terrifying place and I’m happy to be on that journey with Jason Zada, David Goyer, David Linde, and Tory Metzger,” said Peter Schlessel, CEO of Focus Features. “The supernatural scares of the ‘The Forest’ will be something that will genuinely thrill audiences.”

Zada has already made a name for himself in directing many commercials, short films, and apps including “Elf Yourself” and the Emmy award winning app “Take This Lollipop,” a scary, interactive Facebook app which opened the eyes of millions of people as to how much personal information they share online.

After viewing the movie’s set images, it is easy to tell that Zada has a knack for focusing on the aesthetics of the land, and hiding the mysteries within it just enough to make the viewer yearn to know what lies beneath it.

“It was important to me the capture the authenticity of the location and Japan,” Zada said. “The ability to help create real characters that come to life over the course of 90-plus minutes was a fun transition from shorter form content that I’ve done in the past.”

“The Forest” will leave horror fans on the edges of their seats. The only question left is, do viewers dare to explore the forest?

(Some information courtesy jasonzada.com and fastcocreate.com)

By Catie Rice – Staff Reporter

The action-packed boxing thriller “Southpaw” hit theaters everywhere July 24. Antoine Fuqua, who also directs “The Equalizer,” impressively directs this edge-of-the-seat film.

The movie starts off with Billy “The Great” Hope, who is played by Jake Gyllenhaal, as the reigning junior middleweight boxing champion. He lives a great life with a loving wife and daughter and a long, undefeated career.

However, at the height of his career, Billy goes through the worst time of his life when an accident involving his wife takes her life. His life begins to crumble. With no money, a custody battle against the state for his daughter, and the onset of depression, Hope soon finds an unlikely savior in Tick Willis. Willis, played by Forest Whitaker, was a former fighter, but now trains the city’s toughest amateur boxers. With his future on the line, Hope fights to get his life back together.

Jake Gyllenhaal, who has also starred in “Nightcrawler,” “Everest,” and “Enemy,” successfully plays the role of Billy Hope. Gyllenhaal was invested in his role, making him the best fit for this character which made the movie very emotional and interesting. The boxing scenes of the movie were action- packed and made the viewers sit on the edge of their seat.

“I knew nothing about boxing when I started, really, and I knew that in order for me to pull it off in any way, I was just gonna have to learn how to do it — and when I set my mind to something, I just won’t stop until I do it,” Gyllenhaal said.

The big boxing scenes were impressively re-enacted. In one match, Gyllenhaal takes several hard hits, including an injury to his eye that worries his wife. Gyllenhaal did all his own fight scenes and rounds were recorded in the full three-minute intervals.

Hope’s wife, Maureen, played by Rachel McAdams, was only in the movie for a short time but added to the movie’s drama. McAdams has previously starred in “The Notebook” and the classic  “Mean Girls,” both of which help her play this role really well. As the loving wife that tragically dies in the arms of her husband, she creates many emotions for the viewers.

Although there was a powerful and intense climax where Hope starts to find his bearings once again, the ending felt rushed. You follow Hope through his training, working like he never has before to regain his former title and feel rushed into the final scenes.

This movie created a roller coaster of emotions for moviegoers and they won’t be able to take their eyes off the screen. This film appeals to anyone who likes action-packed movies.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

(Some information courtesy hollywoodreporter.com)

By Maeve Rourke – Staff Reporter

The new movie “Krampus” brings a scary and evil spin to Christmas.

This movie blends satirical humor about the unpleasant elements of the modern Christmas season with a scary tale.

The main character, a young boy named Max (portrayed by Emjay Anthony) has a dysfunctional family that clashes over the holidays and decides to turn his back on Christmas. Little does he know, his lack of festive spirit has spawned Krampus: an evil monster that has the intent of taking, opposed to Santa Claus who gives.

The movies starts off with with Max’s Aunt Linda (Allison Tolman) and Uncle Howard (David Koechner) visiting, and his miserable Aunt Dorothy (Conchata Ferrell), who immediately starts complaining to his stressed parents, Tom (Adam Scott) and Sarah (Toni Collette).

After Max ripped up his letter to Santa, a freakish blizzard blows through the neighborhood, cutting off all electricity and phone/Internet access. The chaos begins with a delivery man arriving with ominous packages, and when Max’s older sister, Beth (Stefania LaVie Owen), decides to visit her boyfriend, she never returns.

This movie has experienced skepticism due to its unusual take on Christmas. Despite the skeptics the film has drawn a huge curious audience.  The movie pulled in $6 million on its premier date and was estimated to make another $15 million last weekend.

In addition to the unique plot, “Krampus” contains many well-known actors. Comedians Adam Scott and David Koechner play a big role in the movie. Also, Emmy nominee Conchata Ferrell, best known as Berta the housekeeper in “Two and a Half Men”, stars in this film.

Although this movie has an unusual plot and well-known actors, it is hard to take the movie seriously. A big chunk of the movie includes cheesy build-up to the reveal of Krampus, and contains very little scenes that are actually scary.

Most of the scenes include cliché aspects of a horror movie. Much of the movie includes dark lighting, odd camera angles, and long quiet pauses with creepy christmas music playing in the background.

For example, when the monster, “Krampus”, finally does attack the family, it is usually in dark in enclosed spaces, and the camera is shoved in the actors’ faces while they try to do their best impression of someone being chased.

“Krampus” tries to portray the importance of family, and what christmas is truly about. It is hard to actually get a moral out of the movie when it isn’t very serious until it nears the ending.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

By Nisali Fernando – Staff Reporter

One Direction released their fifth and final album on November 13. “Made In The A.M.” represents the resilience of the British-Irish four piece. Unlike past releases, MITAM follows members Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, and Niall Horan through a loss. This “loss” being the departure of member Zayn Malik. Malik’s time in the band boiled down to a cursory goodbye on social media. As expected, the fans were left in the dark about the aftermath following this sudden change. Yet aside from all the smoke and mirrors, One Direction released a surprisingly honest and vulnerable album.

“MITAM” itself offers a more well-rounded view of the pop turned rock boy band. The album itself is littered with lyrics deep enough to be printed on a wall sign and hung up in a home. The use of full orchestras and synthesizers push fans into a new cornucopia of sound. It makes the same boys who gained popularity singing “What Makes You Beautiful” seem like a distant memory.

The band got their start on the X-Factor UK, they lost and placed third in the overall competition but that wasn’t the end of One Direction.  They’ve released four other albums; “Up All Night” “Take Me Home” “Midnight Memories” and “FOUR” and with this current release it boils down to five albums in five years. While most groups would consider this task overwhelming, the growth and maturity between albums is apparent.

The pop album has 13 songs on the standard version and 17 on the deluxe version. Songs “Temporary Fix” “Walking In The Wind” “Wolves” and “A.M” are featured on the deluxe version

“Drag Me Down”, the first single off of the album, was released on July 31st with no warning. It debuted at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and broke the record on Spotify for most streamed track in one day, earning 4.75 million global streams. The mid-tempo track is peppered with reggae influences similar to the band Magic! and closes with strong riffs from Styles.

The album opens with “Hey Angel” a song that draws influence from another popular british band from the 80s. The repetitive hook, “Oh I wish could be more like you, do you wish you could be more like me?,” eerily reminds listeners of the Beatles. It is a distinctively British-pop track and leaves listeners feeling nostalgic once the song is over.

“End of the Day” opens with a strong percussive line, the chorus is previewed with three percussive beats that allow for a beat drop that is unlike 1D’s original sound. Tomlinson finishes the song by belting a high note followed by a unique guitar riff.

“Never Enough” the most unique and eclectic track on the album opens with a war cry. The lyrics are artfully spoken and to most sound like gibberish. The fast-paced track sounds like a modern “Hooked on A Feeling,” but with trumpets.

“If I Could Fly” speaks of long distance love and leaves the listener crying over a love so strong it survives any obstacles. Lyrics such as, “ For your eyes only, I show you my heart. For when you’re lonely and forget who you are. I’m missing half of me when we’re apart.” strikes a literal chord with anyone who’s ever been in love.

“What a Feeling,” which is influenced heavily by Fleetwood Mac, has a synth-heavy, retro sound. The song talks on love at first sight and the feeling of letting love overtake you. Imagine a roller rink on 80s night, colors and sharp,disco music fill a listener’s senses as the song progresses.

While the album and the band itself have taken leaps towards developing a new sound. One Direction continues to play it safe with the songs they choose to release as singles. “Drag Me Down” which introduces a throbbing bass line and intricate guitar riffs still manages to be reduced down to another basic pop track. “Perfect” while a unique track in its own right, lyrics like “Baby I’m perfect, Baby I’m perfect for you” seem repetitive and vague. One Direction recently announced “Infinity” as their next single, essentially copping out and picking a pop-driven song to be played on the radio. While there’s nothing wrong with pop music, songs that show a different side of 1D slowly die out, unheard of by those who choose to only judge One Direction for their pop, bubbly exterior.

While 1D does rarely change it up, they are always identifiable. Regardless of the hatred one may feel for artificial boybands crying about the same old heartbreak. Their music sells. One Direction isn’t for everyone, but if a well-rounded, musically adept album still doesn’t sound appealing, that is 100% okay. There will always be 8-12 year old girls who cry over the love ballads sung by an endearing British beauty. There will always be fans “directioners” as they’re called, who feel a fierce loyalty to their boys, and will support their endeavors.

A song like “History,” dubbed “ a love letter to the fans,” embodies five years of friendship. A sort of parting gift and a sincere thank you for all the fans have done before embarking on their 18-month hiatus. And as of Monday, December 14th, One Direction changed their final single release from “Made In The A.M.” from “Infinity” to “History” due to overwhelming fan support for the folk track.

Though the album may be called “Made In The A.M.,” people will find themselves listening to the album for years to come.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Owen Paiva – Staff Reporter

The beloved animated band, Gorillaz, was the brainchild of Blur frontman Damon Albarn and Tank Girl comic artist Jamie Hewlett. For those who do not know, Gorillaz is a virtual band made up of (from left to right) bassist and band leader Murdoc Niccals, lead singer and synth/keyboardist 2-D, guitarist Noodle, and drummer Russel Hobbs. Gorillaz was created in Blur’s hiatus as a way for Albarn to experiment with different genres of music. “Demon Days,” the band’s second and most successful album, was released in 2005.  Albarn and Hewlett teamed up with producer Danger Mouse, half of Gnarls Barkley, to produce a alternative rock/hip-hop album. Albarn described each song as battling with a personal demon. He drew inspiration from his train ride from Beijing to Mongolia with nothing but deserts and dead trees, thinking that one day the world will be like this.

The best part of the album is that each song has its own meaning and flavor. “Dirty Harry” is a commentary on the Iraqi war and is a reflection of Albarn’s anti-war beliefs, coming from a soldier’s point of view but seems like a very upbeat song, “El Mañana” is a false translation that means “The Mourning” in its context and is a melancholic ballad about dealing with the loss of a loved one.  “DARE” a seemingly bright and happy song is about a person on their path to absolution (the theme of the album) and their battle with urges to give in to their past bad self.  “Fire Coming Out of a Monkey’s Head” is another anti-war ballad, this one is about the consequences and ignorance of both sides in the war. The album ends with a two part orchestral ballad “Don’t Get Lost in Heaven/Demon Days” which take all the parts from the album and sum them up perfectly. The album’s ability to tell a story, while mixing alternative rock and hip-hop is its biggest strength.

The album was Gorillaz big breakthrough to the United States, going 2X Platinum as well as 5X Platinum in the UK. The album had won multiple awards including a Grammy for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for “Feel Good Inc” and an MTV award for best group. The album blended the hip-hop/alternative vibes from their eponymous debut album from 2001, with elements from Blur’s Britpop and pop vibes. The album’s message and storytelling earned it acclaim, and provided a tonal touchstone for the decade. The album holds up well today compared to other pieces of the early to mid 2000’s.

The lyrical content should be highlighted for certain songs, but “Feel Good Inc.” is the strongest on the album. It addresses the media’s dumbing down of everything, and about breaking away from that. The verse with strong lines like, “And all I wanna hear is the message beep., My dreams, they’ve got to kiss me ’cause I don’t get sleep, no” captures the media’s effect powerfully and the sweet, acoustic chorus is the highlight of the song, capturing the essence of escapism. This song is a perfect representation of the album and the group at its strongest.

The album’s only notable weakness lies in the preference of the listener. This album has some experimental songs with B-sides like “Fire Coming Out of a Monkey’s Head” and “Every Planet We Reach Is Dead”. These songs are the two good B-Sides but some of the other are not notable, and not memorable.  Some people do not want to listen to tracks that are more experimental and out there.

This album stands well after a decade, and re-listening to this album should make Gorillaz fans excited for the upcoming album as it is rumored to have a similar sound to Demon Days, with more guitar compared to the more electronic sounds of “Plastic Beach.”

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

By Tyler Chavez – Staff Reporter

The first “Rocky” film came out 39 years ago. Since then, five additional films have helped establish the film franchise as one of the most beloved in American cinema. The story of a young boxer from Philadelphia established the modern underdog story in film, and launched Sylvester Stallone to stardom for the rest of his career. Enter “Creed”, the newest installment in the franchise (the first since 2006’s “Rocky Balboa”), that attempts to not only live up to the expectations of the first “Rocky” films, but also stand as its own great film. Starring Michael B. Jordan (“Chronicle”, “Fantastic Four”, “Fruitvale Station”), Sylvester Stallone (“The Expendables”, “Rambo”, “Spy-Kids 3D: Game Over”), and directed by Ryan Coogler (“Fruitvale Station”), “Creed” sets out to tell an underdog story we know very well by now, but also to make its mark on the “Rocky” franchise.

The film starts with Mary Anne Creed (played by Phylicia Rashad), the widow of champion Apollo Creed from the first three Rocky films, adopting a young Adonis Johnson, Apollo’s illegitimate son. Years later, we see Adonis (Michael B. Jordan) grown up, and boxing in Mexico, just like his father. But Adonis wants to pursue boxing full time, and decides to move from California, to Philadelphia to train under the great Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone). While hesitant at first, Balboa agrees to train Adonis, after the young boxer reveals that he is Apollo’s son.

Michael B. Jordan, while not fantastic, does a very good job as Adonis. In almost every scene, you can see the hunger and desire he has to be great and achieve his goal. He also does a very good job of capturing how haunted Adonis is by his father. Even though he never met Apollo, he has resentment of him, and has to live with the comparisons to his father. This is a young man who is hurting, but will never admit it. This movie is a good move for Michael B. Jordan seeing as his last film, Fantastic Four, failed spectacularly at the box office.

However, Stallone really steals the show. His Rocky is older, alone, and weaker. He is not pathetic, but it is still sad to see him like this. Rocky is now more of a local legend, living quietly and running an Italian restaurant. However, Rocky still has a heart of gold. His comedic comments bring life into the film. The classic “old master becomes teacher” arc is handled perfectly, and the relationship between Rocky and Adonis is great. They both help each other in their own ways. I fully expect Stallone to get a couple award nominations for this performance.

The cinematography is also handled very well in this movie. Primarily during the boxing fights, the use of circling shots, and rising sound with every punch builds intensity and sets the atmosphere perfectly. Seeing these punches land hurts and adds a visual intensity that any boxing film needs.

Even though Michael B. Jordan does a good job as Adonis, Adonis himself can be a hard character to root for. It is not impossible to root for Adonis and he is not totally unlikeable since he does get some good character development later on, but he doesn’t truly admit his flaws or see the error of his ways and his pride and over-masculinity often get him into trouble.

Many of his opponents say the same thing, that he was born with a silver spoon and is not a proven fighter. And, well, they’re right. Adonis comes from money because of Apollo, and left his financially secure job where he was just promoted to chase some ego-fueled dream. And we only see him fight twice before he is asked to fight the pound-for-pound best boxer in the world. The entire idea of him suddenly being ready to take on this opponent is unrealistic. Instead of showing us Adonis working up through the boxing world, we only get some good old fashioned training montages.

Adonis is not the only character to weigh this movie down. The film’s main female lead and Adonis’ love interest, Bianca (played by Tessa Thompson of Selma and Dear White People) and the film’s antagonist, Ricky Conlan (played by actual boxer Tony Bellew) are given the short hand of the stick. What could be good, interesting characters are left unattended to and underdeveloped.

Bianca, unfortunately, is treated like many other love interests in boxing films. She is left to just stay by Adonis’ side and support him, which is a shame because she has the potential to be a good character. Bianca is an aspiring singer/musician who also has progressive hearing loss. Instead of touching on this story of a musician who is losing her hearing, the detail is tossed to the side. In fact, we learn very little about Bianca in the film as a whole. She is underdeveloped, and that lets the film down.

Ricky Conlan gets a similar treatment. The best pound-for-pound boxer in the world is about to go to jail for seven years, and wants one last fight with the son of Apollo before he leaves. But, he is not a total bad guy. He is not doing this for his ego, but instead, is trying to leave a roof for his kids to stay under. And yet, we see little of this, or Conlan at all. He is respectable and a decent guy, but as a character, he too is left underdeveloped and unappreciated.

In a way, the story of Adonis represents what “Creed” is all about. Both are trying to step out of the shadow of their predecessors, and prove that they can stand on their own as greats. They are not relying on their connections, but accept them to strengthen themselves and be better. Fans of the first “Rocky” film will enjoy this, as “Creed” follows a similar path, and seeing Stallone reprise his role as Rocky will warm their hearts. And to those who did not see the previous entries, they will find a well- written, well directed, uplifting underdog story. “Creed” accomplishes what it set out to do, and is a great film that may see some award nominations.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

“Mockingjay Part 2,” the epic conclusion to “The Hunger Games,” takes viewers straight back into the world of Panem. After the recovery of Peeta and the other victors from the Capitol, Katniss has to deal with the fact that Peeta is now hijacked and is no longer the innocent and kind baker who loved her while she is finally getting ready for the war to take down President Snow.

The war between the districts has finally commenced and is pitting district against district. Feeling restless, Katniss asks Coin to be put into the action, and is sent to District Two to take down the Capitol’s main source of weapons. There Katniss is shot and presumed dead by the capitol.

Katniss is part of the Star Squad, the platoon was sent out to provide footage of the Mockingjay in action, but miles behind any real action yet still deadly. Some people may find this aspect of the movie boring because Katniss is only trying to fight in a war when she’s basically just pretending. While the bombs and dangers are real threats, this is true. Katniss doesn’t fight in the war but she does try.

Katniss is no longer reluctant to go out and fight in this war. She is tired from being a pawn used in everyone else’s game and she decides to do something about it. Anxious to be part of the fight and to help, Katniss and Gale head out – until their plans get sidetracked by personal added to their squad. Entering the war zone in the Capitol, Katniss seems to find her footing and loses multiple men on a suicide mission to kill Snow.

The scenes in the sewer were the most suspenseful of the entire movie, using the dark and the quiet to rattle nerves. The mutts were horrifying and well implemented to look real. The special effects were pretty well done, incorporated in a way that wasn’t overbearing but still managing to portray the way the Capitol had over-the-top luxury and Hunger Games violence. The only thing that really stuck out from the movie was the fact that Katniss’ hair was down for a majority of it.

One of the movie’s shortcomings is that it felt rushed. The scenes seemed to jump from one to the next constantly disrupting the flow that would have been established. They didn’t dwell in anything, or let anything really sink in, just quickly moved on to get to the next scene. It took away a lot from the feelings that were supposed to be portrayed. When Finnick and Annie get married, Katniss dances with Prim and the scene seems to flit across the scene and to the next. It seemed the directors were trying too hard to fit the scene in.

Once the rebels take the Capitol and have Snow in their custody, Katniss asks to take the shot to end the war. Her decision will shock everyone (assuming you have not read the book). The remaining parts of the movie settle back on Katniss moving back home, and moving on from the war. The last scene of the movie ties the whole storyline together with a quote directly from the book, wrapping the series up nicely.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

Halsey released her first full-length album on August 28. “Badlands” takes listeners on a tour through the mind of the young artist and brings them through the ups and downs of her life. It’s not so much an album about feelings as it is a state of mind. Halsey takes people through what she thinks is the desolate wasteland that is her mind.

All her life, Halsey has been surrounded by music. Growing up, her parents would play various types of music that she has told interviewers has influenced her own music style. As a teenager, Halsey was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and has struggled to come to terms with what that has meant to her life. She doesn’t let it cripple her; instead, Halsey writes honestly about its effect on her life.

Halsey started out her music career by posting YouTube videos and her big break came when she put her song “Ghost” on Soundcloud.

Halsey previously released an EP, “Room 93,” that included five songs. The success of these songs officially put Halsey on the map and helped her write “Badlands.” The indie pop album has 11 songs on the standard version and 16 on the deluxe version. The deluxe version features the songs “Hurricane,” “Colors Pt. 2,” “Strange Love,” “Gasoline,” and “I Walk the Line.”

Halsey has been quoted saying this album is an “angry female record.” That description of her album is almost spot on. Each song she wrote for this album has an edgy feeling and a mix of different sounds inspired by other artists that Halsey makes her own.

The album starts off with “Castle,” which has hard beats. “Hold Me Down” is inspired by a need to inspire people to never let anyone tell them they can’t do anything. Halsey sings about “clinging to a little bit of spine” which emphasizes her sticking to her own needs and not letting anyone step on her.

“New Americana” one of the more popular songs on the album. This song is about being diverse in America and about embracing things that are different and accepting them. It’s not a song that is as superficial as one might think upon first listen. The song “Drive” is softer and mellows out the setlist for a few minutes. “Hurricane” is about independence. A girl falls for a guy and he thinks he’s going to devastate her by leaving, but she turns around and says that she doesn’t belong to anyone. It’s meant as a message for girls and guys everywhere to be independent. “Roman Holiday” is more wistful with a solid beat and a strong vibe.

“Ghost” is Halsey’s first original song that she had released. Halsey mentions in the commentary for “Room 93” that she wanted her sound to be “church-y, scary, shimmery” that and is what she based the rest of her music on. She rereleased the song on this album because of its success on the EP.

“Colors” is about loving the idea of a person and the way that affects other people. Halsey sings, “You were red and you liked me because I was blue, but you touched me and suddenly I was a lilac sky then you decided purple just wasn’t for you,” which talks about the way people can change you and then not like what they did to you. The song “Colors Pt. 2” is a series of rhythms and sounds that are rocky and confusing. She uses the chorus and a verse from “Colors” as the only words she sings.

“Strange Love” has a rhythm that can now associated with the album. She writes about her freedom to not say anything to press about her relationships, but that she will because it’s what she’s good at writing about. “Coming Down” is softer than the previous tracks, once again slowing down the pace of the album.

“Haunting” is a track about wanting someone to stay with you, to keep haunting you.

“Gasoline” is about Halsey’s bipolar disorder and how she doesn’t feel human. She is blunt and passionate and the upbeat tempo. She sings, “Are you high enough without the Mary Jane like me? Do you tear yourself apart to entertain like me? Do the people whisper about you on the train like me? Saying that ‘you shouldn’t waste your pretty face’ like me?’” Like “Gasoline,” “Control” has a fast tempo and blunt tone. She says, “I’m bigger than my body I’m colder than this home. I’m meaner than my demons I’m bigger than these bones.” Halsey struggles with her bipolar disorder, and is still figuring things out.

Ending the album is “Young God.” Halsey calls this song “trippy” and it certainly fits that description with its swaying cords and the promiscuity. “I Walk the Line” is a cover of “I Walk the Line” by Johnny Cash, but it sounds much different. Where Cash’s song is accentuated by a banjo and is slow-paced, Halsey’s version is very sultry.

This album has gained Halsey immense popularity and earned her a nomination for MTV Europe Awards’ “Artist on the Rise” for 2015. She is also featured on Justin Bieber’s new album “Purpose,” which has already been a huge hit.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Brendan Felag – Staff Reporter

“At.Long.Last” by A$AP Rocky was released on May 26. This album consists of 18 songs, lasting a duration of an hour and eight minutes. A$AP Rocky is an east coast rapper from Harlem, New York. He began his career in 2007 by joining a group of rappers and beatmakers called The A$AP MOB. One of the more familiar names from the group is A$AP Ferg, who is having the similar success that A$AP Rocky is experiencing. The type of hip hop that A$AP Rocky brings to the table is more of a psychedelic  and slow vibe, which makes his sound original and creative.

“At.Long.Last” starts off with “Holy Ghost,” a track that talks about Rocky’s relationship with God and how without Him, he wouldn’t be where he is in his career. This song brings a mellow distorted guitar beat that leads into an uplifting chorus that creates a church choir feel to it.

Next up on the list is another mellowed out song called “Canal St.” This track talks about A$AP’s struggles before he found success and was homeless roaming from Chinatown, Harlem, and Queens. Once that plays out “Fine Whine” comes on with its drained out, dark, beat. The basis of the song is about broken relationships with both Rocky, Future and both of the women that were very prevalent in their lives.

After that follows up with “Jukebox Joints” which is one of the better songs on the album with it’s soothing melody which come from samples of an Indonesian song by Rasela, titled “Doa Untuk Kasih” with some bars that go hard from Rocky and Kanye West who is featured on this track.

This album has a lot of featured artists that really bring this to life. These artists include Joe Fox, Bones, Future, M.I.A., Schoolboy Q, Kanye West, Juicy J, UGK,James Fauntleroy, Lil Wayne, Rod Stewart, Miguel, Mark Ronson, Mos Def, A-Cyde and A$AP Yams. And new, up and coming rapper Bones, has a feature as well. Bones brings the dark tone to this sound which brings in it’s culture in “Canal St.”. Lil wayne and Kanye West each had a eye-opening set of lyrics with Lil Wayne in “M’s” and Kanye in “Jukebox Joints.” Each feature packed the punch that was needed in each song.

In an interview with London radio broadcasters, Rocky says that the energy of London has influenced this album “100%.” A$AP Rocky also mentions that because he wanted to make so heartfelt, he went clean for the whole time that he was writing this album.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Jesse Dacosta – Staff Reporter

Mr. Mac’s Canteen has been a landmark in Milford for years. The original location is in Monroe. After seeing the success of the first business, the owners decided to open the restaurant in Milford. Mr. Mac’s has always been involved in the community by sponsoring baseball teams and hosting charity events.

Mr. Mac’s isn’t ordinary fast food, hence their slogan: “A unique experience in fast food.” 

The high quality of the food is what sets Mr. Mac’s apart from chain restaurants. The award- winning chili is so spicy, some employees give a warning to the customers who order it. They are known for their all-day breakfast and their delicious hot dogs and cheeseburgers, both of which taste even better with the chilli.

The sides are just as good as the main courses at Mr. Mac’s. The mac and cheese wedges are so crispy, and the mozzarella sticks just ooze out cheese. The wavy french fries have the classic baseball game taste, and the onion rings are a great alternative. There’s even pea soup and clam chowder.

Usually the seafood from a fastfood place might be a risky choice, but there’s nothing to worry about at Mr. Mac’s. There are various platters and combinations including, scallops, stuffed clams, shrimp and lango. The fish doesn’t have that strong fish taste, and is surprisingly crispy.

There are so many different milkshake flavors, it’s hard to choose just one. The shakes are so perfectly thick, that sometimes it doesn’t come out the straw. Blue raspberry isn’t exactly the most traditional shake flavor, but it’s surprisingly one of the best.

They even have an assortment of concessions to buy at the counter like baked goods alongside gum and candy. The muffins sold are also really good, especially blueberry, and the giant cookies are the size of a basketball.  

Mr. Mac’s also has kids meals that come with a kids drink, cheeseburger or hot dog, an order of fries, and even a toy.

The prices are cheap at Mr. Mac’s, but they do not accept cards, so bring cash. There is an ATM inside as well.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Vishal Manglani – Staff Reporter

The potential future of hip hop may lay in the hands of upcoming songwriter, rapper, and Jonathan Law senior Bobby Phong, also known as B-Phong. What started as a hobby became a career leading him to his own gigs and recent release of his first album, “B to G.”

Phong’s first song “Rigamortis” sparked his rapping career in February 2015, and is currently his most popular song. His song became popular amongst high school students in Milford.

Phong’s first songs were the typical rap songs that display his life story, and the battle against certain stereotypes that he endured. However, as his music advanced, Phong developed deep personal meaning, and discussed issues such as suicide and hatred. This aspect of his music makes his songs isolated from rappers, such as Fetty Wap and Lil Wayne who both sing strictly about their reign. Instead, Phong’s music resembles the messages portrayed by the Old School rappers, such as 2 Pac and Biggie Smalls, who preach peace. What makes Phong’s music unique is that he portrays these personal messages in the tempo and pitch of modern rap.

Phong’s newer songs are growing at a faster rate and receive more positive feedback than any of his other songs. His growth in his songs resemble those of the modern rapper, J-Cole’s early stages of stardom. B-Phong’s “Rigamortis” received over 1,000 views in nine months. Phong’s newer songs such as  “No Regrets” received nearly a thousand views in just one week. He also received more likes and approval than he did when he first started out.

The first song in the album, “Rigamortis” is a remix of Kendrick Lamar’s “Rigamortis.” The song is about his battle against asian stereotypes as he explains in the song with its rhythmic lyrics. For example, he uses the lines, “Asians just play piano and loving the mathematics” to describe stereotypes he has faced. He later says, “survival of the fittest,” implying he that triumphed over the societal bias.

The beats that B-Phong chose to fit his lyrics match perfectly. He rhymes and matches his tempo with that of the beat. He keeps his rhythm constant to match the beat at it’s drum beat. Phong’s song “97 Til’ Infinity” was the best example of his ability to adapt his music to the beat. In this song, Phong puts stress on the words that fall on the song’s heavy drum beat. This creates a head-bobbing effect on the audience.

On Phong’s earlier work, his passion sometimes got the best of him. He tended to get so passionate about his subject, that he would yell what he was singing and lose the rhythm hs current music has. In phong’s later songs, his voice quality and pitch quality bettered from new technology.

Aside from Phong’s music, his music videos are impeccably professional and have very vivid quality. Being a high school student, his budget was very limited, but the end result is very impressive.

Phong’s  popularity is constantly rising as well as his music quality. If the pattern continues, the rap industry may have a new name.

Overall, Phong’s album “B to G” is a rare look inside his mind. Fans can find B-Phong’s music on YouTube on his channel “B PHONG”. You can also find his music on Soundcloud under the artist “B PHONG.”

By Arielle Eighmy – Staff Reporter

Imagine never growing older.

Director Lee Toland Krieger, lets the audience experience it along with Adaline. He also directed “The Vicious Kind,” and “Celeste & Jesse Forever.” This is the case for Blake Lively, star of the hit television series “Gossip Girl,” and movie “The Age of Adaline,” released in April. Lively’s inability to age and to keep it as best a secret as she can is intriguing and will leave viewers wondering what will happen next. 

The movie starts off with Lively’s character (Adaline Bowman) who is at the time 29 years old and suddenly gets into a car crash that should have been fatal only to make a miraculous recovery. Her survival, however, leaves her at the same age for nearly nine decades. This causes her to constantly change her name and relocate to various regions of the world so no one will ever know her secret that she has been hiding.

After settling into her new residence, shortly after she meets a charming young man by the name of Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman). Adaline is weary at first of Ellis and questions whether or not to move somewhere else once again.

But as Ellis’ attraction for Adaline grows, she chose to stay. Throughout the film Adaline struggles to mask her identity and ensure her timeless secret stays safe, but as her and Ellis’ love grows stronger, Adaline must decide whether or not her lust for Ellis runs more heavily than her desire to keep the secret safe.

This film captivates audiences with a passion for science fiction and an endless need to watch romance films. Although many critics gave mixed reviews on the film, most thought this was one of Lively’s better performances as an actress.

“The Age of Adaline,” is a must watch movie with honorable performances by Blake Lively (Adaline Bowman) and Michiel Huisman (Ellis Jones).Blake Lively is supposed to be playing a role of a young lady with no distinct interior life, but as a person Blake is very different: she possesses natural beauty and poise.

The build up to the moment when Adaline realizes she can’t age is slow and the movie lacks in keeping it interesting. However, once she figures out her predicament, the movie really starts rolling out. The plot picks up and the audience will find themselves intrigued. “The Age of Adaline” is a good movie for anyone in the mood for a good love story.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5    

By Owen Paiva – Staff Reporter

Following the Punk era in Britain, Britpop took over the airwaves. Championing this movement was Blur, lead by frontman Damon Albarn. After dominating the 90’s with songs like “Country House” and “Girls and Boys”, the band’s last release was an album in 2003 called “Think Tank”. The band went on hiatus following guitarist Graham Coxon’s departure. In 2009, Blur went on a reunion tour, causing fans to hope for a new album. Four years later on a tour of Southeast Asia, Blur found themselves with a week off after a cancelled appearance. In this time, Blur recorded “The Magic Whip” and on April 24 it was released.

This album takes inspiration from Asian and African Music, as well as homages to previous songs. “Lonesome Street” has the energetic guitar and vibe that would make it feel right at home in their “Parklife” album. “Thought I Was a Spaceman” is a homage to David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” and the character of Major Tom. “Ong Ong” is a nice homage to the discoesque vibe of “Girls and Boys” The whole album may seem on the surface to seem like an extension of Albarn’s solo album, “Everyday Robots”, but this actually shows the importance of the Blur’s band-dynamic to prevent the melancholic sound of Albarn from going to complete dreariness. This sets it apart from a lot of Blur’s previous work, while keeping some of the same vibes. This originality really makes the album stand out, and its distinct sound carries it.

The album suffers from not having multiple stand out songs like most other albums. “Lonesome Street” is the main single that is probably the best song on the album. It is the most Blur track, and feels like the older albums, giving it a nostalgic feel. “There are Too Many of Us” is the only other song that works as a single, with its electronic feel and melodic vocals.  Every other track feels like a B-Side, but that is not a bad thing, it just restricts radio airplay.

The critical acclaim of this album is mainly linked to its powerful lyrical content, and unique sound. The song “There are Too Many of Us” speaks about the growing problems of overpopulation and the lack of urgency at a solution with lyrics like “‘Cause there are too many of us, In tiny houses here and there. Just passing out somewhere But you won’t care.” While “Lonesome Street” speaks of the loneliness and depression many in the world suffer. The chorus “And if you have nobody left to rely on. I’ll hold you in my arms and let you drift. It’s got to be that time again. And June, June will be over soon again”  has a very cheery feel, when contrasted to the emptiness in the verses.

The band flawlessly mixes the Britpop feel of their earlier work, electronic feel of Albarn’s other group, Gorillaz, and the indie rock feel of Albarn’s solo album. Different tracks may sound like Britpop or may have a more indie feel, but that adds to the album’s charm.

This album is Blur and purely Blur. The only other person of note was Stephen Street, the band’s producer during their best years. This album takes new direction from the various styles of the members following the break-up, and keeps the band’s original identity and sound. Albarn’s melancholic voices, with the band’s unique sound is really a treat for the ears. For older fans, this album is a homage to the olden days, and for newer or potential fans, it provides the sound of Albarn’s solo work and the indie rock feel works for Blur. This album should be listen to by Blur fans, Gorillaz fans, fans of indie rock, and alternative fans. This album is proof of the band’s longevity and ability to adapt. With the release of this album, Albarn has also hinted at an upcoming Gorillaz album, which should excite fans.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Cyntia Santos – Staff Reporter

The latest animated Pixar movie, “Inside Out,” is about an 11-year-old girl Riley. Riley leads a pretty good life, with her loving parents and a love of hockey and her native Minnesota, but her world turns upside down when she and her parents moves to San Francisco for her father’s new job. Riley’s emotions Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Fear (Bill Hader), and Disgust (Mindy Kaling) try to guide Riley through this difficult event while living in Riley’s “Headquarters”.

While Joy tries to keep the move positive, the weight of it brings Sadness in the lead and Riley’s core memories turn sad. In an attempt to return the core memories to their happy state, Joy and Sadness are recklessly swept into the back of Riley’s mind where they get lost in Riley’s long term memory. As Joy and Sadness are on an adventure to get back to Headquarters, the only emotions left are Anger, Fear and Disgust.

Like many other Pixar movies, like “Nemo” and “WALL-E,” the film deals with the issue of loss. This time, that emotion was captured by ‘Inside Out” co-writers and co-directors Pete Docter and Ronnie Del Carmen. For his part, Docter had the idea for this movie about over six years ago, after he saw his own 11-year-old daughter become sad, and tried to imagine how the world looked through her eyes.

“Inside Out” also shows how all emotions are important in life, and how they work together in complicated situations to go through life. Though odd, the humor grows on the viewers throughout the film with help from its interesting and creative concepts. For example, Riley’s imaginary friend, Bing Bong, voiced by Richard Kind, is a pink, fuzzy elephant with orange striped legs in a hat, bow tie and blazer. Bing Bong really shows the creativeness in this film.

This is a family movie that can connect to all ages. Adults can feel connected to Riley’s parents through Riley’s rough patch and think about what they would do in their situation. The concept having a “Headquarters,” where all the emotions live, and the spheres of memories in the movie can be too complex for younger children. For a child, they would really have to process what’s happening first to understand.

This 94-minute, PG-rated Pixar movie brought tears to the audience’s eyes. It’s emotional, adventurous, and humorous film for all ages.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Isabela Roldan – Staff Reporter

Dubbed “the next Amy Winehouse” by the U.K. press, singer/songwriter Adele has become a phenomenon in her own right.

London musician Adele has successfully made a name for herself in the music industry since landing a deal in 2006 with XL Records. Thanks to BBC Radio 1 playing her single “Daydreamer,” by the end of 2007 she graduated to headlining status.

By early 2011, Adele’s 2nd album “21” featuring disco and gospel-infused songs such as “Rolling In The Deep” was released. However, this booming release was tarnished when Adele was forced to cancel her tour after suffering a hemorrhage on her vocal chords.  

With the birth of her first son, and fear she lost the ability to write songs, she had planned to quit the music industry. This seemed to be the end of Adele, as not much was said from her or about her for years after the incidents.

Reports of a third album release began to spread after some time, and by the summer of 2015, those rumors were confirmed by Adele. “25” will be released on November 20.

Adele’s lead single, “Hello,” from her upcoming third album quickly earned international success, reaching number one in 23 countries, and breaking the previous Vevo record with over 27.7 million views within 24 hours.

“Hello” uses soulful piano ballads and moving underlying meaning that leave listeners anxious and excited for her full album release. The track provides a soft and possibly relatable meaning of growing up and getting to know who listeners have become throughout the courses of their lives.

“My last record was a break-up record and if I had to label this one I would call it a make-up record,” Adele said. “I’m making up with myself.”

Adele’s tendency to provide soothing and somewhat depressing lyrics, however, seem to leave listeners with déjà vu. Many may get Adele’s two differing album themes mixed up, due to the similarity in sounds and distressing verses (“At least I can say that I tried to tell you i’m sorry, for breaking your heart.”)

Some can say, nonetheless, that this is not a falter, but a strength also. As deep, soulful sounds seem to be Adele’s forte.

Adele has, yet again, given the world another reason to cry, and reminisce over past times with one of the most anticipated albums of 2015 and the warmest “hello” she could ever give.

(Some information courtesy of twitter.com)

By Ryan Lawless – Staff Reporter

“Spectre” is the latest movie about a character known as James  Bond, codename 007. The series was first created in 1953 by Ian Fleming and since, is the 24th movie in the James Bond series.  It was filmed in many locations such as Mexico, Austria, Australia and Great Britain. “Spectre” had a budget of $300 million and grossing almost $296 million from ticket sales already.

Spectre is an evil organization that is trying to take over the world. Spectre is running an international security surveillance organization called Nine Eyes, that is made to track people and collect information for the “good of society.” Denbigh, whose code name is C, works for the British Intelligence Agency, and he is trying to get rid of the double ‘O’ program and replace it Nine Eyes.  James Bond, played by Daniel Craig, is trying to stop Denbigh from working with Nine Eyes, and Spectre. The movie makes viewers think about how surveillance and security, and how that can impact your freedom.  

Daniel Craig has played James Bond in many of his previous films but most notably in “Skyfall”. His role has greatly improved because of his previous roles. Craig also has roles in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” and “Casino Royale.”

Andrew Scott, who plays Denbigh or C, also has roles in the popular TV series “Sherlock” and “Saving Private Ryan” which provided him the ability to successfully play his part.

Every James Bond movie made is an action adventure, and has cultivated a faithful following over the years. “Spectre” is no exception, filled with action including, guns, fights escape, and  chase scenes, in cars, trains, boats, helicopters and  planes. There are cool explosions and also romantic scenes with women. The non-stop action is fast paced and keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.

Overall the movie was strong; however, there were points when it was not realistic. The lack of blood and gore shown was a disappointment because there were many action and fighting scenes that definitely would have caused pain and bloodshed, but there were little to no scratches on James Bond and his many opponents. Realistically, injuries should have been common and the absence of the bloodshed drew away from the film. Also, based on previous films in the James Bond series, this one fell short of the expected action.   

This movie is very enjoyable and keeps the viewers captivated throughout.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Ann Reed – Staff Reporter

YouTube superstar Tyler Oakley brings charm and witty humor to debut novel “Binge.”

Tyler Oakley began his online presence in 2007 when he began to upload videos to Youtube. Oakley’s videos are done in a vlog style, and consist of him speaking to his viewers about topics of interest, or events going on in his life. Oakley uploads videos every week, which get an average of 1 million views each. Oakley has done iconic collaborations with celebrities as huge as the First Lady Michelle Obama and boyband One Direction. Oakley is also a huge advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and provides a voice for teens all around the world. Since his start, he has amassed a shocking 7 million subscribers on Youtube and a 4.47 million followers on Twitter due to his quirky personality and sense of humor.

The New York Times bestselling book “Binge” gives readers an inside look at parts of Oakley’s life that have not been touched upon in his videos. While some might brush this book off simply because it is written by a Youtuber, “Binge” is spectacular even if you’ve never seen one of Oakley’s videos. Each chapter of Binge touches on a different topic relating to Oakley’s life, although it is by no means a typical biography. Instead of boring the readers with his entire long-winded life story, Oakley skips to the good parts, sharing hysterical scenarios that he has undergone throughout his life. With chapters on everything from part-time job disasters to “The One That Got Away”, readers are bound to find a piece of themselves in Oakley’s writing.

One specific strong point of the book is how strongly Oakley’s voice shines through. While reading, the reader feels as if they are having a conversation with the author himself. While most Youtubers-turned-authors use a ghostwriter to take up all the heavy writing duties, it is clear that the words expressed in this novel are Tyler’s and no one else’s. Oakley writes, ““I’ve binged plenty of times in my life, sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. Regardless, I indulged. This collection is the result.” This gives the novel a personal touch that readers yearn for whilst reading any autobiography.

Another strong point of this book is the humor that Oakley dishes out. Almost every chapter features at least one laugh out loud anecdote from Oakley’s life that will never leave the reader bored. Oakley includes everything from the time he crashed his car in front of the whole school in an Arby’s uniforms, to the time he witnessed one of his McDonald’s coworkers truly lose his mind. No matter the scenario, the reader will be laughing throughout the entire novel which makes “Binge” a great read for anyone looking to laugh.

The only weak point evident in “Binge” is that it is clearly Oakley’s first professional writing excursion. While the vocabulary is not very broad and the structure is choppy at times, these weak points are also what makes the novel more relatable. Oakley is not a professional writer, he is a person like the rest of us who happens to have an extraordinary job and a plethora of funny stories to share. So, although Oakley is not the most experienced writer, that fact adds to the connection he forms with the reader in “Binge.”

“Binge” is perfect for an avid Youtube viewer, or simply anyone looking for a fun book to read one weekend. Online celebrities are the present and future of the entertainment industry and “Binge” is a great window into that world.

By Ian Hugo – Sports Editor

For many Netflix diehards, “Master of None” may already be sitting in the “Watch It Again” section of their account with a rating of five stars after binging on the series over the weekend. For the more casual Netflix member, however, “Master of None” may just be that irritating suggestion that pops up every time the streaming website is opened before scrolling past it with mild annoyance.

If the latter sounds familiar, this should not be the case: “Master of None” is a must-watch, maintaining the hilarity and quirkiness often associated with star Aziz Ansari (Parks And Rec, 30 Minutes Or Less) while incorporating a sense of depth and meaningfulness to the series the stand-up comedian does not often have the chance to explore and grasp in his other works.

The show stars Ansari who plays Dev Shah, a 30 year-old actor living in New York City best known for his role in a Go-Gurt commercial five years ago. Dev is accompanied by friends Arnold (Eric Wareheim, “Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie”), Denise (Lena Waithe, staff writer for “Bones” starring Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz), and Brian (Kelvin Yu, “Star Trek”), with whom he tackles the day to day challenges of being an up-and-coming adult in the big city, such as what to get your friend’s son for his first birthday, the ups and downs that come along with a serious relationship, finding work in a city of 9 million people, and where to find the best tacos, all the while placing a humorous twist on the situation with Ansari’s trademark charm and lingo.

Aside from the unbridled laughter that will undoubtedly come along with watching Ansari audition for a role as a doctor in a World War Z rip-off film over Facetime in the middle of a crowded coffee shop, “Master of None” subtly deals with issues that run deeper than the Wifi in his apartment being a bit shoddy (which leads to the coffee shop “debacle”).

Ansari and co-creator Alan Yang (Producer of “Parks And Rec”) have created a series unmistakable for its hilarity that, whether the viewer knows it or not, simultaneously touches on issues society in America is currently tackling in today’s day and age, such as the struggles of immigrants deal/dealt with coming to America, racial discrimination in the workplace, inequality of women and men and the struggles women must deal with on a daily basis, and the tendency of today’s generation to abandon the old. Ansari and Yang keep a light cover over this serious undertone, making sure not to let it overshadow the comedic aspect of the series.

Another main plotline in the show is Dev’s relationship with his girlfriend, Rachel. Dev and Rachel, who are intertwined throughout the series but “officially” get together in the 6th episode, have their ups and downs, with their ups being heavenly and their downs ever so depressing. With their relationship so crucial to the show’s plot, explaining in full would bring spoilers galore and ruin any potential viewer’s experience.

In addition to the show’s main characters, Ansari’s parents Shoukath and Fatima play Dev’s parents in the series and are a delightful surprise, acting as an instant mood-lightener from the first time Dev’s father calls him “Dude!”

Ansari also injects some real life into the series, telling his parents’ actual story of how they came to America in episode two in which Dev and his friend Brian take their parents out to dinner to learn more about the struggles they endured emigrating from Asia to the United States. In episode seven, Rachel tells Dev about how she had to go into a pet store for 30 minutes just to get a creepy guy to stop following her around, a bit that Ansari’s faithful might remember from his stand-up routine at Madison Square Garden (also a Netflix production).

With that being said, there were a couple drawbacks to the show. The series, if given a theatrical rating like a movie would have, would almost certainly be R. There is far too much swearing and sexual references (whether overtly or mere innuendo) for “Master of None” to be considered family-friendly. The only other shortcoming is the fact that Ansari and Yang’s modern-day comedic masterpiece has only 10 episodes in the first season! Viewers of the show, which has already garnered positive reviews from a myriad of websites, will most definitely be clamoring for more episodes of Ansari’s Netflix Original Series, the only question being can Ansari and his crew churn out another batch of high quality entertainment with not only laughs but substance as well? Members will just have to wait and see, making due with rewatching the series’ 10 episodes released November 6 on Netflix every few weeks until we get more of Dev and his pals being thrown into hilariously awkward situations and seeing their reactions as they come.

“Master of None” is sure to bring a tear to your eye, whether it be from laughter or sadness.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

The bestselling novel “The Martian” is now out of this world.

The novel to film adaption takes viewers from the inside of a dark theater to the vast expanse of Mars’ surface. The film made $21.5 million in its opening weekend.

“The Martian” begins with a team doing research on Mars for a short mission. Astronaut Mark Watney, played by Matt Damon, is left on Mars after an intense storm makes his team think he’s dead. The only problem is he’s not.

Watney has to find a way to survive on a barren, oxygen depraved, and uninhabited planet by himself. After performing emergency surgery on himself to take out the antenna that embedded itself in his stomach while simultaneously ruining any chance of communicating with NASA, Watney has his work cut out for him.

Despite the fact that the movie is based heavily in science fiction, viewers won’t be able to turn away. The technical, scientific aspects of the movie were explained in a way that was not confusing and didn’t detract from the story.

The film draws viewers in with this unending optimism. In the face of unbearable odds, some that even have Watney believing it’s the end for him, he continues to move forward because while it could end with him dying, it could also lead to him living.

Damon’s role was the highlight of the movie. He brought forth a version of his character that was inspiring and heartfelt. He has spent a fair share of his time traveling through space in works from “Interstellar” to “Elysium” and now he is traversing across Mars. His previous roles prepared him to take on the action sequences of this film.

Each setback had viewers rooting for Watney even more. At one point, the crew decides to go back to save Watney despite the consequences. They go against specific orders and plunge back into the atmosphere of Mars to save their crewmate and friend.

But Watney’s battle for life isn’t only dependent on himself. On Earth, NASA is trying to deal with the backlash of leaving a man on Mars. Teddy Sander, the head of NASA played by Jeff Daniels, works to help Watney while also keeping too much buzz from the press. Sander schemes and cuts corners, barking orders trying to keep it under wraps, within budget and a time frame.

The end of the movie features a surprise conclusion that will pique interest and leave viewers in awe of the sheer brilliance of these scientists.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

“The Maze Runner: Scorch Trials,” the sequel to “The Maze Runner,” hit theaters last week. The movie picks up off directly from the end of “The Maze Runner,” where the remaining Gladiers were ushered onto a helicopter. Thomas, played by Dylan O’Brien, and his friends, are taken to a building in the middle of a desert with harsh environment referred to as the Scorch.

Minho, Newt, and the other boys were willing to enter the new routine, happy to be out of the maze. Thomas was still on edge and didn’t trust Janson (played by Aidan Gillen), their rescuer. He wasn’t the only one either, at the facility the Gladiers discovered they weren’t the only maze. All the kids were collected and brought here to one day be taken to a safe zone, never to be seen.

Aris, played by Jacob Lofland, one of the other kids found in a maze doesn’t trust Janson either. One night he leads Thomas into a guarded room to find out what is really going on once the kids leave for the safe zone. They find out that Thomas’s suspicions were right, and WCKD is still using them. Overhearing a conversation between the thought dead Dr. Ava Paige (played by Patricia Clarkson), they also discover that Thomas and his friends are the first to be harvested for their genes to create a cure to survive in the Scorch. Thomas warns the others in time and has small struggles to get out of the building.

From there, the kids go up against the Scorch. There were cranks, or people affected by the scorch that were remarkably like zombies, at every turn. The cranks were a mystery for a good portion of the movie, but you knew it was infectious and that you didn’t want it to happen to you. Without anywhere to go they decide to try and find the resistance they heard of while in the facility.

They find a warehouse that houses refugees from the Scorch where they meet Brenda and Jorge. After a brief misunderstanding, Jorge agrees to help them not only get to The Right Arm but to help them escape from Janson.

Thomas, Minho, Newt and the others have to make tough decisions that could mean life or death. They have to face the horrors of the world that they don’t remember. and Theresa is a constant problem. She’s always causing problems and commits multiple acts of betrayal.

While there were multiple scenes that involved explosions and fighting, the special effects weren’t overpowering in the movie. They fit well into the movie without shouting “green screen.”

“The Scorch Trials” is a thrilling, suspenseful movie that is action-packed and fun for everybody. The characters never get a break and will have viewers on the edge of their seat rooting for them the entire time.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

The Barden Bellas are back and ready to take on the A Capella World Championships in Copenhagen.

Three years after their incredible win at the National A Capella competition, “Pitch Perfect 2” returns, checking up on the Bellas and following on their journey to compete at the International a capella competition.

Beginning with the embarrassing slip-up the Bellas encountered while performing for the President’s birthday, a capella commentators Gail Feinberger and John Smith break the news that the Bellas are suspended from all a capella competitions, and are replaced on their victory tour by the legendary German group DSM. It is established that unless the group wins the world a capella championships- also having to compete against DSM, who have captured the public’s attention after the Bellas are fading into the background- they will ultimately have to disband the group.

Meanwhile, protagonist Beca Mitchell is trying to juggle the tight schedule of the Bellas, and the secret new internship she landed at a recording studio.

After being hopelessly beaten by DSM at an exclusive riff-off after freshman Emily (daughter of a legend Bella) tries to play an original song, the world a capella championships are looking dim for the Barden Bellas- it isn’t until the Bellas go on a retreat- lead by former Bella leader Aubrey- that the Bellas find their own a capella style, and are confident in their shot at world’s.

The movie starts with a bang – the Presidential birthday performance scene is hysterical as we check up on what the Barden Bellas are up to, two years after their legendary national a capella championship win.

Still, it was clear this sequel wasn’t nearly as good as the first film. Performances fell flat with less-known music, and even the original pieces that were used in the film weren’t good enough to pass in the movie. Additionally, there was less music in general than the first movie. “Pitch Perfect 2” focused on the drama in the Bellas’ lives rather than their actual singing.

Not only this, but the riff-off was a huge letdown after the legendary riff-off in the first movie. The categories were weak, and the teams’ responses were even weaker. While the Bellas certainly turned around for their final performance at the a capella world championships, the movie seemed like a major hit-or-miss.

Overall, while “Pitch Perfect 2” was a decent sequel, the first movie was definitely much more structured, produced, and written. A boring plotline and weak, scattered performances made the movie less than what it could have been.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

By Ismar Junuzovic – Entertainment Editor

The summer movie season officially kicked a few weeks ago with the release of the latest “Avengers” film, which broke its own box office records.

It’s now time for “Mad Max: Fury Road” to shine at the box office. The film is the fourth installment in George Miller’s eccentric post apocalypse movie franchise. Tom Hardy stars as the lead with a supporting cast including Charlize Theron and Nicholas Hoult.

The story, while being very simplistic, offers everything that it needs to: a compelling plot with characters that are actually developed. And while it may seem that the franchise has run its course, it is anything but that. As an action film, “Mad Max” is perfect in every way imaginable. The film revolves around a simple plot: a group of characters needs to go from one point to another; however, the movie gives the audience such a unique story which gives the characters so much life and uniqueness.

Unique could be the most accurate word to describe “Mad Max: Fury Road.” From the costume designs, to the way the story is told, to the action sequences, the movie is unlike any other film that has come before it. The action scenes are all directed beautifully and with style, but also while never compromising the viewing experience because the audience can understand what is actually happening. It is unreal how satisfying it is to watch the action in these scenes, how relentless and insane it is; it’s genius and awe inspiring at the same time.

While it would be easy to see this film as just a two-hour action movie with nothing else to offer a moviegoer, in reality it’s a movie that has a lot of heart. Miller should be commended for his exceptional work with directing this film, which easily could have been a sloppy re-mastering of an older film which could have just fell flat in front of today’s modern audience. Mad Max is easily the best film to come out this year and possibly the best action movie in the past 10 years.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

All the world’s favorite Marvel superheroes come together in the second installment of “The Avengers.”

When Tony Stark and Bruce Banner play around with the scepter, first seen in the original Avengers movie, they create Ultron. He was meant to save the world and to put an end to the Avengers so they could stop fighting. Instead, he took put an end to the Avengers as a challenge and unleashed his destructive powers onto the team of heroes.

The movie is packed with action and wit, almost to a point where it’s overbearing. However, it was still enjoyable. The actors, well-known from the previous film, were all excellent in their roles.

Scarlett Johansson plays the Black Widow. She has previously starred in “Lost in Translation,” “The Nanny Diaries” (starring Jonathan Law’s very own Nick Art), “Lucy,” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”

Jeremy Renner plays Hawkeye, Chris Evans plays Captain America, Chris Hemsworth plays Thor, Mark Ruffalo plays The Hulk, and Robert Downey, Jr. plays Iron Man.

The actors played each character with the same skill has the always have. They really brought it to the plate in the scenes that were more emotional than just the fight scenes.

New Marvel characters are introduced in the film, including The Scarlet Witch played by Elizabeth Olsen and Quicksilver played by Aaron Taylor Johnson. Both did well to play the enraged twins ready to wreak havoc and try to save their people in the process.

The movie starts out with action and the graphics were shaky at best, the animation was totally visible. But after the opening scene, it got much better. It was no longer obvious that the characters weren’t actually fighting monsters in some mountain top. The scenes got more realistic after that.

The storyline of the film was secondary to the action sequences and jokes. There was a point in which the Red Witch messed with the Avengers’ minds and viewers got a better glimpse as to who they are, and what makes them tick. It goes really in depth into the life of Hawkeye, revealing that he is just an ordinary family man who is overly skilled with a bow and arrow.

Overall, the movie was action-packed and a solid sequel to the original.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

By Hayley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

The thriller “Unfriended” was released into theaters on April 17 and instantly attracted viewers with its technology-driven plotline.

One year after their friend’s passing after an embarrassing video was posted online, six friends are cyberstalked for hours by an anonymous user trying to figure out who posted the video.

When the friends (Blaire, Adam, Mitch, Jess, Ken, and Val) notice a Skype user listening in on their video call on the one-year anniversary of childhood friend Laura Barn’s death, they immediately recognize it to be Laura’s old user. Assuming that the account was cruelly hacked, they attempt to rid them of their call to no avail.

After several cryptic Facebook messages from Laura’s account are received, the friends assume that it was Val who hacked the accounts- but after it was clear it was a third party that could toil with their computers, it was too late for the friends.

One by one, the friends disappear off of the call, and it is clear that the anonymous user is behind their deaths.

The remaining four friends are forced to play Never Have I Ever, and the user threatens to kill whoever loses. The game reveals secrets about the friends that turned them against each other; soon, the four are completely at odds with each other.

When there are only two left, the user asks the final and most important question; who posted the video of Laura Barns only a year ago?

The movie is confined entirely to the desktop of protagonist Blaire, where we can see which pages she visits and what spooky unintended windows an outside source opens. We can see the other friends through the Skype window, as well as when Blair talks privately with Mitch about the happenings through Apple’s Messages app.

Soon, it is clear that to the friends, there is nowhere to hide- even unsent messages are seen and replied to by the anonymous user.

As the movie plays out, viewers see that producers have thought of everything to make the movie complete, down to a pirated copy of a “Saturday Night Live” episode causing the downloaded Trojan horse removal software to lag when trying to get rid of the user, to the at times loud hum of Blair’s computer’s hard drive. Even unnecessarily loud notification sounds are a nice touch to made the audience especially on-edge.

An inventive way to portray a story, “Unfriended” was a spooky watch that was well-thought out and very entertaining.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

“Younger,” the brand new TV series starring Sutton Foster and Hilary Duff had its premiere on Tuesday, March 31, with a special showing of the second episode as well.

Set in New York City, 40-year-old Liza (Foster) is trying to bounce back from her recent divorce and repossession of her house while her daughter studies in India. After several job interviews, Liza gets a brilliant idea after getting hit on at a bar, in order to get going with her life she had to be younger. Posing as a 20-something, year old she lands a job, makes some friends, and begins to try to figure out how exactly to be 20 again in this new generation.

Right from the beginning, the program shows off its wild humor and sharp wit. Throughout the episode, there are well-placed digs and some almost awkwardly funny jokes. At times, while the jokes moved from funny to just plain strange, they quickly recovered and overall had a great start to the new comedy.

With a new best friend in Kelsey, played by Hilary Duff, and a love interest in tattoo artist Josh, played by Nico Tortorella, the show sets itself up nicely for an entertaining and possibly troublesome future for Liza.

Foster hasn’t had too much TV experience, only playing important roles in “Bunheads” and “The Angriest Man in Brooklyn.” But as an actual 40-year-old pretending to be 20, Foster does a good job in the pilot edpisode. Her charisma is translated on screen and she was able to enrapture the viewer and gives the character a good foundation for the show to build upon.

With the pilot gaining some solid ground for the show, the “Younger’s” writers and actors will have to keep up with people’s expectations.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

By Emily Kifer – Staff Reporter

The power team of Tris and Four are back and more powerful than ever, trying to figure out why Tris’s family risked everything they had and why the faction Erudites are doing everything they can to prevent that from happening.

Part two of the “Divergent” trilogy, “Insurgent,” begins in Amity. Amity is a dystopian place where four friends – Tris, Four, Caleb, and Peter – hide away until Erudite and Dauntless traitors arrive at Amity, searching for a Divergent to take on a special task that Jeanine has come up with. A fight breaks out between Tris and Peter regarding her family and it proves that they are truly not members of the Amity faction, therefore they can no longer hide out in the Amity grounds, which then puts them in danger.

Throughout the movie, Tris and Four do everything that they possibly can to stay away from harm in the environment until the traitors go through and personally scan everyone to see what faction they actually are. Tris knows that she is Divergent and does not want to be captured and be used as Jeanine’s experiment. Time passes and then Tris sees the harm that people are going through because they are only a small percentage of divergence.

Tris is recognized as 100% divergence which means she is the only person with the power to take on the task. After a while of waiting and hiding out Tris becomes fed up with watching all of these innocent people being killed off because they cannot open the box due to their lack of strength and power as a divergent. Tris then turns herself in to Jeanine and agrees to attempt on opening the secret box if the suicides stop.

This movie was rated PG-13 due to some of the action and mild violence.

The graphics in this movie were incredible. The fighting outside of the portal was obviously staged and viewers could tell that they were not really fighting, but when it came to being stuck with needles for special medication which made it impossible to lie, and taking on the tasks inside the portal, it was unbelievable. The images and the scenes were perfectly put together and it was so believable that viewers will feel like they were emotionally and physically there. One task is to save her mother from a burning house, which was really emotional because you felt how much Tris cared and misses her mom.

Overall, the movie was put together really well and the ending was perfectly set up for another movie to be made.

“Insurgent” had many of the same actors as “Divergent.” Shailene Woodley plays Tris Prior in both “Divergent” and “Insurgent.” She played Hazel Grace from “The Fault in our Stars,” and was Amy Juergens in “The Secret life of the American Teenager.” Ansel Elgort plays Caleb Prior in “Insurgent,” as Tris’s brother. Ansel stars in “The Fault in our Stars,” with Shailene as well, and is also in the horror film “Carrie.”

Theo James plays Four (Tobias Eaton ) in the “Divergent” trilogy and also appears in other films such as “The Domino Effect” and “The Inbetweeners.”

This is a movie worth seeing, and even though it is completely fictional, viewers can still learn a lot from the story line.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

 

 

By Briana Peters – Staff Reporter

Growing from his immature, wild concepts of music, Earl Sweatshirt’s, new album, “…I Don’t Go Outside” reflects the depression and grief in the current era of his life. As a long awaited follow-up to his album “Doris”, Earl released the album on March 22 at 11:30 p.m.

Earl Sweatshirt, 21, born Thebe Neruda Kgositsile, was discovered by Tyler, The Creator in 2009 through his MySpace account. In 2009, Earl, then known as Sly Tendencies, was working on his mixtape “Kitchen Cutlery,” but never released or finished it due to joining Odd Future. He has released two albums prior to “…I Don’t Go Outside”. His debut studio album “Earl” was self-released on March 31, 2010, and his second album, “Doris,” was released on August 20, 2013. That album was released after he went to a youth program for rehabilitation on the island of Samoa.

To sum up the album title, Earl Sweatshirt does not like anything and does not go outside. The 10-track album begins with the swaggering, organ-driven opener “Huey,” and within the first bar of the song, Earl’s voice is heard as legitimate and serious, yet self-effacing. Within the tracks, Earl’s maturity and expression of his current battle with drug abuse and depression is revealed. On March 17, 2014, he released the song “Grief,” which is a pure example of this revealing. The heavy, grim lyrics of the song describe his drug usage as an escape to deal with his depression and loneliness. Also, he makes several references about people turning into “snakes” and using him for his fame, which is why he doesn’t go outside anymore.

Besides the consistent grief-stricken remarks in his new songs, Earl makes an approach of recognizing his fortune throughout his music career, in a non-self-promoting type of way. Enough though he is struggling with multiple issues, he manages to see the good in all of it such as his fans and how far he has made it in the music industry. He went from rapping about wild, vulgar, offensive subjects to rapping about his everyday life, and relating to others that are in the same boat as him.

Overall, this album is a huge step up for Earl Sweatshirt, not only because he is being real with his music, but also because he has matured so much since “Doris.” His new ideas and concepts are extremely brilliant and relatable.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

 

By Malena Araujo – Staff Reporter

Catfish and The Bottlemen released their first studio album “The Balcony” in September. Catfish and The Bottlemen is an alternative pop/rock band that formed in Llandudno, North Wales. The band was formed around 2007 and the current members are Van McCann, Johnny Bond, Benji Blakeway, and Bob Hall. The band signed to Communion Records in 2013 and their album made No.10 on the UK Album Charts in 2014. Before that, the band would write songs, cover The Beatles, and play small venues. The band has been compared to the Kooks, Circa Waves, and The Courteeners.

The first single released by the band was “Homesick.” This song gave listeners a preview of the overall feel for the entire album. The single starts of as soft song then switches to a more upbeat sound when the chorus starts. The lyrics, “I said ‘I’m only looking out for you’/ She said ‘It’s obvious that’s a lie’/ ‘But I only ever put out for you, you know it’s obvious you don’t try’/” are spontaneously belted in the chorus. “Rango” is the second single. This song utilizes the drums more, but focuses on lyrics opposed to the first single. The song was mainly written by lead singer, Van McCann, who writes about experiences that relate to him and people. The storyline is about a couple splitting up through rumors, but also about wanting to leave a small town. The last single is “Pacifier” and sounds like The Killers in terms with the beat. The song was written about the differences between two people. It is like lines in a book with the dialogue between the writer and a girl.

The strongest songs off the album are “Kathleen” and “Cocoon.” The songs show more of the alternative rock aspect of the album, but still have an upbeat sound. Also, the lyrics are very clever and conversational. This album doesn’t have many fillers, which is exceptional for a debut. The album has about 11 songs and none of them are created to make up a track list. Each song adds more depth to the album through sound and lyrics.  Catfish and The Bottlemen have been a band for about seven years and they had a lot of time to write songs for this album. The band didn’t expect to ever sell albums because they are more of a live show band.

The band only decided to record this album once they got signed. The decision paid off because now they are able to tour around the world. Despite their growing fans, the sound of the album is an acquired taste. Some listeners might find the sound of the album repetitive and not understand the lyrics.

Catfish and the Bottlemen is said to be the best, “new” alternative pop/rock band in a while. Although they might be an acquired taste, their songs relate to most people. The album is perfect to play during a road trip or just hanging out with friends.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

Forty years after Arthur Kipps first was tormented, two teachers and a group of grade-school orphans seek refuge during World War II at the Eel Marsh house in “The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death.”

Surrounded by water, in the middle of nowhere, and being abandoned for years, the Eel Marsh house seems like the perfect, safest place to be. But at the story moves along, viewers see this is not the case.

Not long after arriving, the strange apparition that appears throughout the house starts to affect the children’s behavior.

Eve, a young teacher, begins to have a reoccurring nightmare of when she was younger and had to give up her baby. Later, she finds a message, reading “You let him go,” scolding her for leaving her baby.

Edward in particular, a young boy who has been mute since the death of his parents, is haunted by the Angel of Darkness. Locked in a nursery by two of the other boys, the Angel of Darkness first appears to him, and gives him an old doll that resembles a sailor. Edward carries the doll around constantly, never letting it out of his sight.

That night, one of the boys who locked Edward in the nursery is found on the beach attached to the ground with barbed wire – he had drowned at high tide.

Eve and Harry investigate the background of the Angel of Darkness. They find that her name is Jennet Humphrye, who is the sister of Alice Drablow, the original Woman in Black.

Jennet had a son who died a premature death, and is punishing Eve in the same way that she gave her baby away. Eve is not the only teacher who had been lured to the Eel Marsh House.

Finally realizing the danger that the house possesses, Jean, Harry, and Eve take the children to Harry’s airfield, where they wait while an air raid takes place. However, Jennet lures Edward from the group, where they fake his death. Not fooled by the strange woman, Eve returns to the Eel Marsh House, knowing that is where she will find Edward there.

For a movie in the “horror” genre, the film had a disappointing amount of “scares” and has little suspense and tension. The few that it did have were weak, feeble, and horribly predictable.

A solid and noteworthy job is credited to the actors, however; they definitely worked with what they had. A flimsy plotline made the movie uninteresting to watch and simply unoriginal.

The special effects from the movie were pristine, though they went a little overboard with the dim lighting. Instead of a gloomy feel, at some points it was simply too dark and foggy to see what was going on.

Overall, “The Woman In Black 2: Angel of Death” had an unoriginal plotline and limited suspense. However, the actors portrayed their characters well and the special effects made the movie interesting to watch.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

When a group of scientists accidentally kill one of their own, they face the repercussions of bringing her back from the dead.

That’s the storyline for the new horror film “The Lazarus Effect.”The serum needed to resuscitate the scientist is named after the biblical figure Lazarus, who was dead for four days before he rose again.

After “the incident,” three scientists and one documentary student try to revive their fallen colleague. On the surface, this is a premise for an exciting movie. However, viewers soon find that this film is all bark and no bite. The movie completely falls short as a horror film. Instead, it focuses too much on the build-up to the murder, the intricate background of the serum they used, and the scientists’ lives before the accidental death of the fourth scientist.

When the supposedly possessed member of their team begins to kill people, it’s predictable. (Viewers won’t be sure what is happening to this girl. Was she possessed by a demon, her own sins, the devil?) Meanwhile, Niko, who is played by David Glover (a.k.a. Childish Gambino) was the first to be alone with the neurotic undead lady, and not surprisingly, he was killed off first.

The only satisfying part of the movie was the end. Not a single main character survived the night, and it was refreshing that the lone survivor got away to live a good, if not slightly tormented, life from that point on.

Olivia Wilde plays Zoe, a scientist who dies and comes back to life only to hunt down and kill her crew. To her credit, she was pretty creepy. She successfully portrayed the psychotic demon-lady who is pretending to be a scared girl. Wilde’s previous work includes “Rush,” “In Time,” and “Tron: Legacy.”

Mark Duplass plays Frank, who is supposedly a smart man due to his degree in science. However, with the way he reacts to this situation, viewers would never know. His decisions are questionable and he dies rather quickly. He has worked in the films “The League”, “Safety Not Guaranteed” and “The Puffy Chair.”

Overall, “The Lazarus Effect” is predictable and not all that scary. It’s a movie not worth watching – or worth reviving.

Rating: 1.5 out of 5 stars

By Ismar Junuzovic – Entertainment Editor

2015 is set to be among the greatest years in history for hip-hop releases. Only a few weeks ago, fans were greeted with projects from Big Sean and Drake, and later this year, there will be projects from the likes of Action Bronson and “Earl Sweatshirt.”

One young man has finally returned with his sophomore debut on a major record label. The man is Kendrick Lamar. Many consider Lamar the most gifted rapper of the modern era. He burst onto the scene with his 2012 release “good kid m.A.A.d. city,” which stunned listeners through its unique concept of each song presenting itself as a chapter in an overall story.

His latest album, which is titled “To Pimp a Butterfly,” is different from his previous album in almost every aspect. It also is Kendrick’s most ambitious sounds he’s ever put out for various reasons. The production has a much more of a jazz and soul influence dialed in through each song. There are no radio-friendly songs on the album, which comes as somewhat of a surprise considering Lamar’s last album had songs like “Swimming Pools” and “Money Trees.”

Lamar sounds much more mature now. He’s tackling issues on these songs that most rappers today would stray away from in fear of damaging commercial appeal. He’s giving his insight on social issues such as race and police brutality but doing so in a manner that doesn’t at all contradict the music. It is still extremely enjoyable especially due to the fact that he is providing actual substance to each song. The song “King Kunta,” which comes in towards the beginning of the album, seems extremely minimalistic at first with barebones production but still manages to have a funk-like, upbeat groove to it. Other standout tracks include “Momma,” “These Walls,” and “Mortal Man,” which ends the album in a stunning way. The entire album feels perfectly polished and each song has its own place.

It can already easily be argued that Kendrick Lamar is the greatest rapper alive today. On this album, he put forth a project that will make listeners truly think instead of aiming for a more mainstream appeal. All music fans will soon look at “To Pimp a Butterfly” as not just one of the greatest great hip-hop albums of all time, but also a triumphant masterpiece that will be celebrated for years to come.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

 

By Hayley Sanchez – Editor-in-Chief

The newest live-action recreation of a childhood movie is now out in theaters. The new “Cinderella” movie is loosely based on the animated version and the written fairy tale.

Lily James, best known for being in the show “Downton Abbey,” became the beloved Disney princess, Cinderella.

Cinderella lives with her stepmother, who is played by Cate Blanchett, and her two stepsisters, Sophie McShera and Holliday Granger. Cinderella deals many difficulties that she must overcome to find her true happiness such as, her parents’ deaths.

Prince Charming, played by the handsome Richard Madden, has his own difficulties in trying to find his own true love but also pleasing his father. Madden was able to complete the huge task of being the prince who was down to earth and caring of the feelings of everyone around him.

The casting was really well done and the audience could really tell that each character was thought out. The costume designer also did a really great job at creating costumes that did not overpower the scenes and the characters themselves.

The special effects to create the pumpkin to the carriage and the mice to horses were well done and did not look animated.  The uses of CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) were also very well done in the fact that the mice did look real.

Many believe that the movie is a complete re-enactment to the Disney Animated version but there are aspects in the movie that deal with the written version of Cinderella.  The movie shows Cinderella through the years; so from the time she was a baby to when the ball happened.

Throughout the movie, viewers could match up some of scenes with the animated version to the live action version, but there were times where there was not a match-up. The movie explains in a quick way how Cinderella got her name because it was not her original name.

The way the producers were able to combine the animated version with the written version was done beautifully because it added a sense of realness to the movie. It was not like the animated version where Cinderella loses her parents and the first time she meets her prince is at the ball.

This movie definitely brings everyone back to their childhood. It allows them for the hour and 45 minutes that they are watching the movie to forget about the real world and live in this fantasy that is so close to their hearts.

If someone is the mood for a comedic but childhood favorite then “Cinderella” is the movie to go see because it brings out the Princess and the Prince that is in everyone.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

 

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

“Let’s talk about labels. The classics still exist:  jock, geek, rocker, mean girl. But what I didn’t know was that I had a brand new label.”

That line is the theme of the new teen comedy “Duff.” Suddenly aware of the social hierarchy in her high school, Bianca, a senior, embarks on a revolution to change everything.

Content with her life, Bianca is seemingly oblivious to what is happening around her – a social trend in cliques called the “Duff.” Duff stands for “Designated Ugly Fat Friend,” though they do not necessarily need to be ugly nor fat. The duff of a clique is essentially the less popular, more approachable member of a clique that is used to become friends with the real clique members.  As Bianca says in the movie, “You either know one, have one, or you are one.”

At a party hosted by popular “mean girl” Madison and Bianca’s two best friends, Jess and Casey, Bianca is told from her old friend Wes that she, in fact, is the duff.

Insulted but not surprised, Bianca unfollows and de-friends Jess and Casey on all social media sites, choosing to end her friendship with the two after the devastating betrayal.

Bianca asks for help from her popular, jock neighbor Wesley, and sets out to defy all labels in her high school. She embraces a whole new makeover with his help, including new clothes and a new attitude. ­­After seeing Bianca and her ex, Wesley, grow in friendship, Bianca’s classmate Madison sets out to destroy Bianca. She releases embarrassing videos of Bianca, but instead of feeling defeated, Bianca only grows in determination to end social standards.

Humor-filled and extremely entertaining, “The Duff” is a movie that could very well be the new, modern “Mean Girls.” The movie is an inspiring tale in which Bianca shows the viewer how to stand up to injustices while staying true to themselves. “The Duff” is dramatic, witty, remarkably relatable, and self-empowering and accurately describes the high school social “government” – and how it must be reformed.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

Based on a true story, the awe-inspiring sports drama “McFarland, USA” is taking the box office by storm.

After losing another coaching job, Jim White (played by Kevin Costner) moves his family to McFarland, California, the only place that would hire him. Here in the run-down streets of town, the Hispanic students and families are dirt poor. Every day, the boys in town go out into the fields to pick crops, then run to their dilapidated school, and then run back to the fields to pick some more.

Soon after White, or Blanco as the kids call him, starts working at the school, he looks to get a cross country team so he might get noticed. Some of the kids have raw potential, and with some help, Blanco scrounges up seven kids to form a team. While reluctant at first, they find that with running, they can go somewhere, maybe out of this town.

Costner, who is known for his role in “Dances with the Wolves,” “The Untouchables,” and “Robin Hood: The Prince of Thieves,” plays his role really well, portraying a worried father and concerned coach.

The beginning of the movie is a rough start for the team. Half of the team doesn’t really want to be there. The main runner, Thomas Valles, was running to get out of a suspension and another boy was running to avoid being put on probation. With this ragtag team, there were bound to be problems.

Carlos Pratts plays Valles, the number one runner for McFarland team. In this movie, Valles has many ups and downs, and the film focuses on the dynamic between him and White. Pratts is known for his work in “Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones.” He plays the role of a troubled teen who just wants to make his father proud and do better than what life has handed to him.

One night, when White is out driving to clear his head, he stumbles upon Valles sitting on the ledge of an overpass. After this emotional night, the team begins to start getting into shape and becoming closer. The town is ecstatic when the boys qualify for the state tournament. The boys have never won anything, and many feel doomed to live the same lives as their parents, so the town rallies around them.

After a knife fight, a new job opportunity for White, and with just one meet left in the season, White decides to treat the boys. He says, “Listen, I’ve got five bucks and seven boys who’ve never seen the ocean.”

The next step for them was the final meet at states – and the exciting conclusion of the movie.

Under White’s coaching, McFarland has won 15 state championships. White is still coaching the cross country team, and the original runners featured in the movie occasionally come down to practice with them.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

By Ismar Junuzovic – Entertainment Editor

Saying that the return of new music from Drake has been highly anticipated by hip-hop fans would be a severe understatement. He has finally returned with the release of a new mix-tape entitled, “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.” Drake is choosing to release this project in the midst of a conflict occurring between his close friend Lil’ Wayne and his label which Drake himself is a part of. It is speculated that Drake has chosen to release this newest mix-tape as an album in order to complete a four-album deal so he may leave the label as well.

As for this project, it was a pleasant surprise. The mix tape feels like a cohesive project that was actually put together rather than just a few extra tracks left over just being put out to make a quick cash grab. He sounds much more confident on the majority of these tracks, which provides a much more enjoyable listening experience. The production is somewhat simple and can be labeled as being “Trap-Rap” with heavy bass hits and 808 drums being expected. The sound is similar to recent releases from artists like Bobby Shmurda, Kanye West, and Migo,s who have also exploded onto the musical scene with their erratic flow and lyrical style. The sound may turn off fellow Drake fans who tend to enjoy his songs that are much slower in pace and easier on the ears such as “Marvin’s Room” even “Hold On, We’re Going Home.”

This project was obviously intended to be a mix tape based on how simple it sounds, but that doesn’t at all take away from how enjoyable it really is. Drake really pulls through some with some entertaining samples with songs like “6 God” in which he samples a beat from a level in “Donkey Kong Country 2.” The style of just rapping over anything really works for him because he sounds like he is actually enjoying and is confident in what he is putting on a song. Other highlight tracks include “Madonna,” “Preach,” and “Know Yourself” which features a hook that will be stuck in people’s heads for a few weeks. The best song on the album without a doubt, “6 P.M. In New York,” comes in towards the tail end of the mix tape. The song is a reference to an older Drake song, “5 A.M. In Toronto.” This new track features Drake rapping and essentially speaking everything on his mind, including a line has the internet buzzing in which he takes a small shot at fellow rapper “Tyga.”

Overall, Drake really did a great job entertaining hip-hop fans who have suffered through a massive drought of good music being released the past few months. Anticipation for his new full-length album will now be higher than ever, which can only be a good thing.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

 

By Emily Kifer – Staff Reporter

Maroon 5 is a popular pop rock band that got its start in the early 2000s. The band is made up of seven members, four of which were from their high school band Five Towns. The seven members include: Adam Levine (lead singer), Jesse Carmichael (keyboard), Ryan Dusick (drums), Mickey Madden (bass guitar), James Valentine (rhythm guitar), PJ Morton (keyboard), and Matt Flynn (drums). The five friends released their first album “Songs about Jane” in 2002.

Two years later, Maroon 5 began to climb music charts all over the world, and their album went platinum. In 2004, Maroon 5 won their first Grammy Award for Best New Artist. The following year, Maroon 5 went on to win another Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance; they won the same award again in 2007.

In 2010, Maroon 5 continued to make their songs appear as hit after hit, “Moves like Jagger” reached number one and number two on the Billboard charts. Maroon 5 then took a short break due to Adam Levine’s television appearances on “The Voice,” “American Horror Story” and many more shows.

When 2012 came crashing in, and so did Maroon 5. “Over Exposed” was soon released and their fans went crazy. Not only was their favorite band back, but a new sound was brought along with them. Some popular hits included “One More Night” and “Payphone.”

Over time, the band began to write catchier songs; however, the songs had less of a rock sound. Maroon 5 seemed to like the thrill of having fans hum their catchy pop songs repeatedly throughout the day. All artists tend to go through a phase where their sound changes, or they think it’s time to start something new to make the fans wanting more – and that is exactly what Maroon 5 continued to do.

In 2014, “V-Deluxe” was released and the music only continued to improve and become catchier. The entire feel of the overall album seemed “brand new.” In comparing songs from 2002 such as “This Love” or “She Will Be Loved” to “Maps” or “Sugar” from 2014, it is not hard to notice that their music has done a complete 360. “Sugar” was recently released on the radio. The mixture of Adam Levine’s high hit notes and the strums of the bass guitar give off the perfect pop tune. This song gives off a happy feel and leaves fans singing the lyrics over and over all day long. People who listen to the song when they are in the worst mood will no doubt boost their spirits and put a smile on their faces.

If something had to be changed about the album it would be to have a song with the old Maroon 5 sound. Even though the band is a huge hit and only keeps the fans wanting more, there are some people who miss the old meaningful lyrics. Nostalgia hits fans hard every so often, and moments later they are found listening to a song from 2002. Overall, Maroon 5 is a huge hit and people only have nice things to say about them, but there is always room for reminiscing.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Ian Hugo – Staff Reporter

“Sometimes it is the people who no one imagines anything of who do the things that no one can imagine.”

This is certainly not the case for Benedict Cumberbatch, star of Morten Tyldum’s “The Imitation Game.”

Cumberbatch, who has previously acted in big name pictures such as the BBC’s “Sherlock” in which he starred, “The Hobbit” films as Smaug and the Necromancer, and “Star Trek Into The Darkness” as Khan, portrays Alan Turing flawlessly.

“The Imitation Game,” based on Andrew Hodges’ book, “Alan Turing: The Enigma,” surrounds Alan Turing, a young British mathematician working for the British government during World War II as Britain attempted to crack Nazi Germany’s Enigma code, a seemingly impossible secret code used to communicate messages right under the Allies’ noses.

The film is a combination of flashbacks to Turing’s past as a child and as a codebreaker during the second World War and scenes in which we see Turing being investigated and questioned by the police in 1951.

Turing arrives at Bletchley Park, the site for the United Kingdom’s Government Code and Cypher School, in 1939 seeming awkward, humorless, and distant to his five fellow code-breakers including Hugh Alexander (portrayed by Matthew Goode), a man twice crowned chess champion of Britain.

Turing believes that a team will only slow him down, and with 159 million possibilities to try, time is certainly of the essence. The problem is, it would take 20 million years to try each and every possibility, and the team of six young geniuses from Britain only has 18 hours each day from when the first message is received at 6 am before the code resets at midnight and they must start from scratch.

Keira Knightley stars alongside Cumberbatch as Joan Clarke, a seemingly commonplace British woman who is in fact a mathematical genius. Clarke assists Turing and the rest of the code-breaking team in solving the Enigma code under the guise that she is doing clerical work at Bletchley.

Clarke also helps Turing hone his social skills and soon enough Turing begins to become accepted by his team and even tells a them a joke, something he was once criticized for not knowing the meaning of by Commander Denniston, head of GC&CS, in a rather touching scene in which Cumberbatch masterfully evokes the nervousness and diffidence of someone who is attempting to exit their shell and leaves everyone in the audience with a smile on their face.

Flashbacks to Turing’s childhood provide the audience with insight surrounding Turing’s childhood: his early experience with cryptography and personal information that could possibly explain why Turing is so withdrawn and unsociable as an adult.

The film follows Turing as he navigates his way through building the machine that broke the unbreakable code, forbidden relationships in both youth and adulthood, uncovering a Soviet spy in his midst, and the slow, painful torture Turing was subjected to at the end of his life cut short by the injustice of the British government.

Fans of the BBC’s crime-thriller “Sherlock” in which Cumberbatch stars will almost definitely be enchanted by this film. Cumberbatch plays Turing magnificently, and once again proves that although he may not be considered a genius in terms of IQ level like some of the characters he portrays (Fictional characters such as Sherlock Holmes and Khan Noonien Singh as well as actual geniuses that include Alan Turing and Julian Assange), Cumberbatch is a genius of film.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

 

By Malena Araujo – Staff Reporter

Fall Out Boy recently released their sixth album “American Beauty/American Psycho.” This album is the third release from the band since their hiatus that began in 2009 and ended in 2013. “Save Rock and Roll” was the first album released since their hiatus and represented a new beginning for Fall Out Boy to rejoin as a band and experiment with new sounds.

The first single from the new album is “Centuries.” It was released in September and became an instant pop/rock hit by reaching No.10 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song has an “action movie” feel with its soft hook, powerful guitar riffs and strong vocals. The hook was created by remixing Suzanne Vega’s hook in her song “Tom’s Diner.” The next single released was called “Immortals.” This song teases an electronic pop/rock sound for the album and was written for the film “Big Hero 6.” “American Beauty/American Psycho” was the last single for the album and is the most upbeat single released. The song writes about the contrast between someone’s self-image oppose to the image they have of their lover. The song also takes a more pop-punk approach than the other two singles.

Fall Out Boy’s four year hiatus gave each member of the band space to grow as individuals. All the members have very different personalities and this is good for a band because it creates contrast between the members which gets incorporated into their music. The newer songs have revealed progression of the band’s music which has affected their ratings positively. Songs off this album like “Uma Thurman” and “Jet Pack Blues” shows how Fall Out Boy’s lyrics, sound, and vocals have changed from previous albums.

Although Fall Out Boy’s music has improved many fans think that it has strayed too far from old music. In the past, Fall Out Boy’s music was considered pop punk/rock. Their music now seems to lean more towards pop oppose to punk. Some people have even nicknamed the band “Sell Out Boy” because they’ve sold out to the media by writing pop music. Despite the controversy towards the genre, the only problem with this album is the lack of features. They create variety in the music which helps sell more records. “Save Rock and Roll” featured artist like Foxes, Big Sean, Courtney Love, and Elton John.

“American Beauty/American Psycho” is a great album overall. The lyrics are meaningful, the sound is different, and it is definitely worth the listen.

Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

How far would you go for survival?

On December 25, “Unbroken” brought to the big screen the incredible and inspiring true story of a World War II POW camp survivor.

As a child, Louie Zamperini, to say the least, was a troublemaker. But, with the help of his brother, he learned to channel his energy into running. Many years later, Zamperini was headed for the 1936 Olympics. However, before he is able to compete, World War II begins, and instead he enlists in the Air Force.

Meeting incredible people along the way and being a part of a close-knit flight squad, Zamperini’s life comes to a halt when, on their way to reclaim hostages, their plane crashes in the Pacific.

Only two other crewmen, Phil and Mac, on his plane survive, and they sail adrift in two life rafts for an incredible 47 days with no food, little water, and very little hope. One by one, planes fly by, with no rescue in sight- one even begins firing at them, putting holes in their life rafts, but missing the three. Luckily, they patched the rafts, saving them, but only until they were surrounded by sharks.

Weeks later, Mac passes away from dehydration and malnourishment. Soon after, Louie and Phil are saved- sort of. Running into (literally) a Japanese Navy boat, the two are captured and sent to a Prisoner of War camp.

Separated along the way, Zamperini must survive the camp guard, whom they call “the Bird,” who has seemingly targeted him. Beatings, torture, and starvation are only a few of the things he must bear.

Directed by Angelina Jolie, “Unbroken” details how strong the human spirit is in the face of intimidation.

This movie was simply amazing. The few effects it required (such as the sharks, being lost at sea, gore, and war in general) were beautifully made. Simple things like large camera angles and a floating camera at sea gave this movie the touch it deserved.

The characters were very well-developed, and while the movie was very gory at times, being brutally honest, it was necessary to truly understand the pain that Zamperini went through when he underwent living in the camp.

Easy to follow, with great twists, like when Zamperini was given the news that “the Bird” was promoted, and he was elated in the hopes that the pain and torture would diminish. The following day, however, Zamperini’s entire camp is moved to new camp, a coal mine where they will work day in and day out, only to find that this camp was where the Bird was promoted to. Seeing the crushed look on Zamperini, knowing the devastation that he hadn’t escaped the Bird, was a definite tearjerker for the audience, and perfectly capturing what it must have been like for him.

Based on a true story, the movie had a beautiful conclusion, however it missed a few points, such as, what happened to Phil after the war? Did he make it out alive? After Louie and Phil are separated, we were given no conclusion as to where Phil went, what he went through, and how he did.

Overall, the movie was a definite success. A great plot, emotional acting, intricate details, and capturing characters made this movie simply inspiring. However, a seemingly unfinished conclusion made the movie only slightly disappointing. It’s a definite must-see.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

By Michaela Pounds – Entertainment Editor

“Into The Woods” is a 2014 film that was adapted from a play and is based on several popular children’s fairy tales. The stage version of the story was not as family-friendly, but the film was changed so it would not be as scary for children to watch.

Disney lovers will definitely be interested in “Into The Woods’’ because of the fairy tales that are portrayed in the movie. The movie includes the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales of “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Cinderella,” “Jack in The Beanstalk,” and “Rapunzel.”

The movie is based on a couple who are not able to have a child because of a curse that was put over the man’s family by their neighbor. The witch who lives next door placed the curse because she had her magic beans stolen. The witch says the couple will be able to receive a baby if they collect all the items she desires: a lock of hair yellow as corn, golden slippers, a cow as white as milk, and a cape as red as blood. The movie shows the quest this couple goes on to collect all of the items while incorporating the other fairy tales into the story. The ending of the story is not expected because there is a twist of events.

It is easy to tell that there is major musical talent among all of the actors and actresses in the movie because of how much singing takes place. The movie reuses the song “Into The Woods” over again in the movie.

The cast of “Into The Woods” is full of well-known actors and actresses who are also able to sing. Some of the main characters in the movie are Meryl Streep, who plays the witch, Anna Kendrick, who plays Cinderella, and Johnny Depp, who plays the wolf.

The downside to the movie is its long running time, which is over two hours. The movie drags on at parts and it makes watching in the theater tiresome after a while. If the movie was shorter and its plot more streamlined, it would be more enjoyable.

The set design and special effects in the movie make it stand out and exciting to watch. The giant and the beanstalk are two great visuals in the movie.

Overall, “Into The Woods,” is a movie for all ages to see. The plot is aimed toward children, but adults and teenagers can also enjoy the familiar childhood fairy tales and musical voices of actors in this film.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

The final movie of “The Hobbit” series was recently released into theaters. “The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies” was a riveting finale to the three-movie series, filled with incredible graphics, a great plotline, and a satisfying conclusion.

Bilbo Baggins, along with the company of dwarves and wizard alike, has finally made it, after a long and dangerous journey, to Lonely Mountain. Releasing the dragon Smaug from the mountain and into a neighboring town, Smaug destroys the town, before a simple townsman kills him.

Entering into the mountain, riches are uncovered: but Bilbo has a secret. While Thorin Oakenshield orders the dwarves to search for the Arkenstone that he has rightfully inherited, Bilbo has already found it, and refuses to give it up. Meanwhile, the power has gone to Thorin’s head, and he is driving the dwarves into defeat.

Word of Smaug’s death, however, has traveled around, and soon the Wood-elves- in search of their jewels, goblins, the Men of the Lake, as well as the Giant Eagles of Misty Mountain, all come to claim the riches that lie inside the mountain. From here, the Battle of Five Armies begins.

The scale of the movie was simply massive. Wide camera angles captured the enormity of inside the mountain, as well as the battle scene in front of the mountain. Thousands of gems and golden coins were stored in the mountain, and thousands of soldiers could be seen fighting in the field. The different places in which the battle took place were easy to keep up with, as well as to recognize.

The movie was easy to follow despite the many different armies and species coming together to fight. Many plot twists, like the leader of the goblin’s difficult defeat, kept the viewer entertained and interested, and graphics- especially Smaug, the dragon that haunts Lonely Mountain- were intricate and well-developed.

However, sometimes these plot twists were difficult to keep up with, namely when Bilbo was juggling what he was going to do with the Arkenstone.

The movie was a great adaptation to the book, not straying too far from the plot, but definitely kept it interesting.

Overall, “The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies” was a thrilling finale to the three-part series, with great graphics- especially the dragon Smaug and the riches of the mountain- a capturing plot which kept the viewer interested, and a great adaptation to the massive battle scene.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

(Photo courtesy latimes.com)

By Ismar Junuzovic – Columns Editor

New Year’s Eve is a special day for everyone, but this year was slightly more exciting with highly anticipated music being released from Kanye West. The self-proclaimed genius has not put out any sounds since the polarizing release of his sixth studio album in 2013, “Yeezus,” which essentially divided fans who either loved it or loathed it.

Since then, West has not put out any music, and rumors have swirled about what his next project would be – these ranged from an eight-track album to an entirely spoken word album. On New Year’s Eve, West answered those questions with the release of a new single, “Only One.” The song is emotional, similar to what he showed on his 2008 album “808’s and Heartbreak.” West sings over a more electronic sound which again was a large departure from his previous works at the time. The song is sung through the perspective of his mother, Donda who passed away a few years ago. West’s intent was to show how he felt that it was his mother singing through him to his daughter. A feature also accompanies the emotional track with Paul McCartney on background vocals and piano.

West usually has the ability to try and attempt new sounds and make them sound brilliant and fitting to his style, but unfortunately this was not one of those times. This song is extremely underwhelming from someone with West’s talent. The song is very emotional but aside from the content and meaning behind the lyrics, it feels forced. A usual saving grace for West is his high attention to detail and incredible production on his songs, which this lacks immensely. The ambient piano does not provide anything unique to the vocals that West sings.

Rumors have circulated this year that West and McCartney have been planning a full length release together, and if this is any indication of what it may be like, Kanye West will be finished. It does seem somewhat ironic for such a bland and lifeless song to be released by him after his previous projects have been held to such high standards by all passionate music fans as being perfect. He has previously broken the barriers of hip-hop and putting his own unique spin on it. This song shows how no matter how passionate a musician is; the end product can still be sub-par. Kanye West finally showed his weakness.

Rating: 1 out of 5 stars

By Malena Araujo – Staff Reporter

English singer-songwriter Sam Smith continues to climb up the charts with his first studio album “In The Lonely Hour.” The album remains in the Top 20 even months after its release in May. Smith first caught the public’s eye in 2012 with his appearance on Disclosure’s single “Latch.” Smith’s soulful voice reached the song to No. 1 on UK Singles Chart. He then released a sample album EP, “Nirvana,” on October 4, 2013, to experiment with a different sound. This EP contained four tracks, none of which appeared on his debut album.

Smith opens “In The Lonely Hour” with his single “Lay Me Down,” a heartfelt pop song that is known for the beautifully sung long notes in the chorus. This song sets the tone and sound for the entire album. The second single he released was “Money on My Mind,” which is a more upbeat, pop single than the first. The song has an R&B breakbeat sound and has been remixed by many DJs. His third single, “Stay With Me” was the biggest breakthrough for Smith. The song is a heartbreaking pop ballad that tells the story of a person not wanting their significant other to leave. The song was brought to No. 1 with its catchy and emotional chorus that sings “Oh, won’t you stay with me?/’Cause you’re all I need/This ain’t love, it’s clear to see/ But darling, stay with me.”

Smith has said that this album is about recruiting love because many of his love interests didn’t feel the same way. Smith’s inspiration really impacts the entire album because every song has a sad tone and heart-rending lyrics. This could be because it better suits his voice or because it is all he can write about, but the sad tone gets repetitive. The constant depressing lyrics could be off-putting for listeners, which could be detrimental to a new artist like Smith.

Although Smith picks a sad tone for all his songs, he manages to make them all sound different. Smith does a wonderful job in making every song sound one of a kind with a different story or point of view. This style of writing is hard to do, especially for pop artists like Smith. He writes from personal experiences and has become a very relatable pop artist while avoiding the clichés of one. Smith sings with such soul and emotion, that each song sounds like a work of art. He’s been rightfully compared as a male version of Mary J. Blige or Adele because of his talented voice and lyrics.

“In The Lonely Hour” is one of the greatest pop albums of the year. It captures heartache with greatly written songs and wonderful vocals. This album is recommended to anyone looking for new music that might potentially cause sobs. With more time and experience in the music industry, Sam Smith may become legendary.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

By Valeria Araujo – Staff Reporter

Malala Yousafzai was a girl full of life and compassion in an area of Pakistan that was beautiful until it was transformed by terrorism. Through this, she learned to stand up for what she believes in: education & women’s rights. She advocates for her rights as a woman and for education, she travels around the world to do so, and inspires all except the Taliban who shot her in the face on her way to school and nearly took her life.

The New York Times bestselling Book “I am Malala” helps young teen readers understand exactly who Malala is. Many think “Oh, that girl that got shot by the Taliban, right?” Howeve,r the book is so much more than that. It starts off when she is about 10 years old and about how competitive she was in school. Then it continues throughout her life as she advocates for women’s rights and education while the Taliban slowly start to take over her country. She even discusses the day she was shot and what happened afterwards.

One strong point of the book is how inspirational it is. Malala’s views on education makes the reader appreciate what they have. Malala writes, “I’m not afraid of anyone. I will get my education. Even if I have to sit on the floor to continue it. I have to continue my education, and I will do it.”

She also writes, “Help us appreciate the school days that are left to us , God, and give us the courage to fight even harder for more.”

The Taliban could do anything, yet Malala Knew whatever they did, whatever they threw her way (even a bullet) she could handle. Malala writes, “They cannot stop me. I will get my education.”

Her confidence is inspiring as well. She writes, “What would I do it a Talib came to kill me[…] take my shoe and hit him[…] Just tell him what is in you heart. That you want an education. For yourself. For all girls. For his sister, his daughter. For him[…] Now you can do what you want.”

No matter how much she does, and how much she’s been through, she’s still just a teenage girl with the same interests as any other child. Malala writes, “At home in Pakistan, the three of us ran like a pack of rabbits, in and out of the alleys around our house; we played a chasing game like tag we called Chindakh (meaning “frog”), and Thief and Police.”

The only weak points of the book were the parts that were really gruesome. They could be too graphic for some readers, so reader discretion is advised. In one haunting passage she writes, , “In the video, a teenage girl wearing a black burqa and red trousers was lying face down on the ground being flogged in broad daylight by a bearded man in a black turban.”

This book is not for the weak at heart. “I am Malala” is for people who want to be informed about what is happening in the world and for those who want change like Malala did. People like Malala are the voices of change.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Taylor Loughlin – Entertainment Editor

If fans thought that the “Pretty Little Liars” Christmas Special was going to tell them anything about who the infamous ‘A’ is, they were wrong.

“How the ‘A’ Stole Christmas” mainly set the tone for season 5B. The girls are still trying to figure out who has been tormenting with them for the past five years but fans who have been continuously watching the show all have their own ideas and predictions. This is the first year the show did a Christmas special. Fans look forward to the annual Halloween episode, but were disappointed this year when they found out that it wasn’t what they were expecting.

It seems as though to make up for having a subpar Halloween episode, they decided to throw in an extra creepy Christmas Carol type experience. Alison DiLaurentis is visited by Mona’s ghost who shows Alison her past, a flashback, where she finds two identical presents, one for her and the other for a mystery girl. Putting that part into the show proves to fans that their “twin” theory may be correct after all. It also shows Alison’s mother repeatedly telling her daughter not to mention the extra gift to her father because it would make him want to leave their family. She is training Alison to become the perfect liar at such a young age.

The episode was expected, but was unnecessary. Most of the events that happened in the hour-long special could’ve been put into a regular showing when the season airs again on January 6. The writers of this show do a great job of building up suspense and then disappointing viewers when the next episode rolls around. It almost seems dragged on. Since 2010, viewers still have no clue on who ‘A’ is and it doesn’t look like they will anytime soon. Marlene King, the producer of the show, had mentioned on her Twitter that the show was renewed for another two seasons.

For most of the episode, it shows Alison being visited by Mona’s ghost who showed her the first lie she ever told. Fans did see get to see a creepy preview into Alison’s future. The rest of it was the girls searching Ali’s house trying to not get caught by ‘A’. Overall, the episode was mediocre. After waiting for five months, the episode didn’t satisfy most fans.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

If you had to decide between your career and your happiness, which would you choose?

Noni Jean, an up-and-coming artist is faced with this question, in the movie “Beyond the Lights.” Having already won a Billboard Music award before even releasing her new album, it seems Noni’s life has already been paved for her by her sometimes verbally abusive single mother who is only driven with the hope of success.

But after winning this prestigious award, Noni wonders if this is who she is – and who she wants to be. Deciding to end her life, she meets Officer Kaz only when she is perched on the balcony of her hotel room, ready to take the leap. After saving her, the pair falls for each other.

With important careers at stake, the two much choose between what they want, and what their families want.

The movie begins with an anecdote from Noni’s childhood to provide insight into how she was raised; the backstory really grabbed the audience when it showed both sides of Noni’s mother – the concerned, desperate single mom as well as the money and success driven woman.

As the movie progresses, we see Noni start to shed the walls she put up as she starts to become closer to Kaz. By the end of the movie, we see how much Noni has changed – not only has she shed her signature purple extensions and airbrushed profile, but she starts to dress more tastefully, which reflects who she, herself, wanted to be as an artist.

While the movie was great in following Noni’s progress, it would have been even better if they had shared Kaz’s finish as well. We are left with many questions regarding him- did he continue campaigning for the position he was hoping for? Did he stand up to his father, confessing that this was never his dream? Also, it would have been great to know what happened to Noni’s mother. Did Noni forgive her mother? Did they progress to mend the relationship that was never admirable?

Aside from the holes in the conclusion of the movie, the plot was a fantastic idea, if a little overused. The idea of the main character having to choose between major fame and her happiness was genius. It left the audience on the edge of their seat throughout the entire movie, all the while throwing major plot twists to keep them captivated.

With a great plot and polished backstory, Beyond the Lights, although slightly unfinished, was well worth the watch.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

 

By Ismar Junuzovic – Entertainment Editor

Childish Gambino has released a follow-up project to last year’s hit album with a new, seven-track EP entitled “Kauai.” Gambino began making music in 2010 with some minor releases, including a few that caught the eye of many pure hip-hop fans. However, it was his last release in 2013, “Because the Internet,” that essentially thrust him on the mainstream scene with many hit singles and a concept album that many thought was mesmerizing.

It is safe to say that this new seven-track release does not impress, especially when it comes from someone as talented as Gambino. He discarded all the elements of his previous works that made them so unique. “Kauai” gives a vibe of laziness and a lackluster set of songs that doesn’t provide anything up to the standard previously set by Gambino. The problems do not necessarily revolve around the fact that the track list is very short, rather that all the songs seem forgettable and sound as if he put the entire project together in one day.

The last project he released felt breathtaking for a multitude of reasons. Gambino had ventured into the more industrial side of hip-hop which is becoming much more popular from the likes of artists such as “Death Grips” and even Kanye West’s most recent album.  He has also been praised in the past for how he is able to have social commentary on the current status of music with tracks like “WordStar,” which he released last year.

While listening to this album there isn’t very much offered that even the most passionate Childish Gambino fan will enjoy. The EP only attempts to copy other Southern artists who have attempted this more “Trap-rap” type of sound. Some of the tracks, such as “Sober” or “Retro, may seem enjoyable at first, but even they lose their flare after the first couple of listens. It sounds like Gambino is trying to sing over some type of an outdated synth beat that doesn’t at all suit him. The only small bright spot may actually be a remix of a song that he released last year called “3005” which actually does sound nice.

Overall, this project by Gambino did not provide anything remotely entertaining even to fans who have admired his work for a long time.

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

 

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

In “Mockingjay: Part 1,” the third installation of “The Hunger Games,” Jennifer Lawrence comes on-screen as Katniss Everdeen and blows the audience away. Since the first movie, Katniss has been in “The Hunger Games” twice, sparked a revolution, and had her district blown to bits. In this movie, Katniss is barely holding herself together. After everything she’s been through, she can hardly function and only acts out of pure rage or compassion for the most part. The leader of District Thirteen, where she and other survivors from District Twelve were brought, wants her to become the face of the rebellion, become the Mockingjay.  To assume the role, Katniss only has one request: they save Peeta. Until they have an opportunity to do so, they put her in the field going to districts and giving people hope and shooting a propaganda film.

The movie flung viewers right into the action, not allowing any minute of screen-time for unnecessary prologue. It simply picked off where the previous installment left off. As this is the first part of “Mockingjay,” it is basically just a filler for part two, setting up the plot so they can get into the real war. Thus far, there have only been revolts, not battles.

The basic storyline for this film was to show the progression of the rebellion against the Capitol and the consequences of Katniss blowing up the arena in the last movie, but also still following Katniss. This was captured very well throughout the film where it would show something Katniss did that would then spark a revolt in at least one of the districts.

The incorporation of the rebellion was flawless. From paper to screen, viewers can really tell that the director, Francis Lawrence, paid close attention to detail. He was able to create a way to show how what Katniss did sparked people to revolt. For example, she sang a song called “The Hanging Tree” and they filmed it to later show it to the districts. The rebels sang that song as they bombed a bridge and fought back against the peacekeepers.

The special effects were mediocre. There were times when the background looked like a green screen, but overall, it was realistic. Mostly used for rebel attacks, the effects were minimal, but necessary. At some parts, when Katniss was shooting some propaganda, the effects were sloppy, but for the most part nothing seemed too farfetched.

One of the most brilliant parts of the movie that was carried over from the previous motive was the idea of the pearl. It is never mentioned aloud how important the pearl is to Katniss, but viewers can just tell because she seems to always have it only her and is constantly worrying over it. It’s her connection to Peeta and something solid she can hold on to. It really represents the kind of hope and raw heartbreak that she had to go through. She is so lost and has nothing left but to cling to this one useless piece of rock.

Liam Hemsworth plays Gale, who has a bigger role in this movie than the previous ones. Now out of the games and into the war, Gale presents himself more to the viewers. Viewers can really start to get a feel for who his character is. Hemsworth does a good job of making Gale seem stern but also vulnerable. He lost his home, his best friend almost died twice in the games, and he’s angry. Hemsworth was able to present himself in this manner throughout the movie.

“Mockingjay” has captivated audiences everywhere and since it is broken up into two parts, the ending will no doubt shock viewers, and leave them waiting for the finale.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

By Taylor Loughlin – Entertainment Editor

Taylor Swift has put her days in country behind her with her new album “1989.” Swift’s all-pop fifth album is impossibly irresistible, starting with “Welcome To New York,” a dazzling view on her new hometown where she gets over all of her heartbrea ks. She had no problem calling out her former boyfriend Harry Styles in many of her songs.

Some of the songs on her album include the single “Shake It Off,” “Bad Blood,” and “Out Of The Woods.” Swift is known for writing all of her songs based off of personal experiences and it’s proven to work for her, especially on this album.

“Blank Space” almost sounds like a Lorde song, but instead of Lorde’s mellowed effect, Swift makes it her own by making it a little bit more sarcastic. “Bad Blood” is rumored to be about Swift’s “frenemy” Katy Perry, and also sounds like it could be one of Perry’s songs. The ninth song on the album is named “Wildest Dreams,” and anyone who has listened to it automatically knows Swift aimed for a Lana Del Rey-type of sound. To say the least, Taylor Swift has had a lot of musical inspiration from her other famous friends with this album.

Swift has been getting a lot of positive feedback since the album came out. Billboard’s Jem Aswad has declared the album “Swift’s best work.” Usually she writes all of her songs by herself but she had some help from Swedish executive producer Max Martin. He co-wrote seven out of the 13 songs on the album. Some other co-writers of the album were Jack Antonoff, Imogen Heap, Ryan Tedder, and Ali Payami.

Almost a million and a half copies of “1989” have been purchased since its release on October 24. The album itself earned the largest sales week for any album since 2002. Overall, “1989” sounds exactly like Taylor Swift, even though it sounds like nothing she’s ever done before.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

By Haley McNulty – Entertainment Editor

How far would you go to say that final goodbye?

“Ouija,” a new horror film based on the supernatural game used to come in contact with the dead, scared its way into theaters on October 24 with a highly-praised debut.

After Debbie Galardi plays with a Ouija board she found in her old house, soon after she turns up dead. When Laine Morris, her best friend, mysteriously finds the same board along with footage of Debbie using it, Laine insists on contacting Debbie with her sister, Sarah, their friends, Trevor and Isabelle, and Debbie’s boyfriend, Pete. But what they come in contact with is much more than just their friend.

Soon after, mysterious notes and symbols turn up wherever the friends go, whether it be carved into a desk, written on the window of their car, or spray-painted on a wall on their run. One by one, the friends turn up dead, until Laine refuses to let the innocent game go any further.

Lies are told, the past is uncovered and, with help from her sister, Laine uncovers the truth of the strange Ouija board- and the strange house her friend once inhabited.

Overall, the movie was another great idea that was simply not carried out properly. At first, it felt like the generic “girl goes hears something and then shuts the lights off, going upstairs to see what it was” type of horror film. But by the end of the movie, it got in some great heart-pounding scares (a few people even left the movie midway through), as well as some great plot twists that kept it interesting.

While some aspects of the movie, like how her friends mysteriously started turning up dead (they was never a follow-up on what had actually happened to them, like there was with Debbie) were negatives, I really liked the original plot and how they stuck with it. Who knew an old lady in a nursing home could be so sneaky?

Disappointingly, the messages that the spirit leaves for the friends are always the same thing: “Hello, friend.” They could have come up with more original scares, and more scares in general.

Overall, the movie was a great concept that was simply not produced very well. While it had a great plot, keeping things interesting with plot twists and great graphics, it felt slightly unfinished though it had an understandable resolution.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars