Billboard’s Women in Music is an annual event during which the publication recognizes women who have made substantial contributions in an otherwise male-dominated industry and ultimately bestows someone the title of “Woman of the Year.” This year, Billboard chose to give the award to popstar Ariana Grande, whose contributions to music and female empowerment, as well as her ability to remain poised throughout this past year, have without a doubt made her the most iconic face of 2018.
Love and praises for ‘The Hate U Give’
In a world full of racial tension, bias, and brutality, “The Hate U Give” respectfully and creatively presents a sense of understanding and a universal message of the unfairness Black people face daily, simply because of the color of their skin. The movie begins with a controversial subject within the Black community, “the talk.” Instead of the usual “birds and the bees” talk most parents pass down to their children, Black parents must explain widespread discrimination and racism to their kids, warning them about the …
‘Bohemian Rhapsody’: the PG version of a rockstar’s life
The biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody” follows the legendary band Queen, specifically the standout lead singer Freddie Mercury, during the most important 15 years on their road to success up to their Live Aid performance in 1985. The film gives a glimpse of Mercury’s private life and the outside influences that tore apart the band for years. It is almost impossible to distinguish where actor Rami Malek ends and Mercury begins. From his infamously horrible teeth to his defined facial structure, it’s difficult to imagine that someone …
Allie X’s breakthrough in experimental exceptionalism
The dream of moving to L.A. and making it big as a musician seems virtually impossible when taking into account how many thousands of other people want it as bad as you do. But when superstars like Troye Sivan ask you to help co-write songs, you can’t help but realize that you’ve got something special about you. In her third studio album, singer-songwriter Allie X takes the challenges she’s faced as an aspiring musician, and in turn uses them to her advantage to create the …
Review: ‘Oh, the Humanity and Other Good Intentions’
As a teenager in a country where roughly 40 million adults suffer from anxiety disorders, it was gut-wrenching to see how accurately the cast of Will Eno’s play “Oh, the Humanity and Other Good Intentions” communicate that life devours people of all ages and backgrounds. Perhaps because it was too real.
‘Maniac’: A masterpiece of retro-futurism
The Netflix series Maniac keeps the viewer locked into the couch for binge watching, in what feels like a film divided into episodes rather than a miniseries. The cast shines, as teen stars turned movie icons Jonah Hill and Emma Stone lead us into a dark world of obscurity and wonder.
The Pizza Experience: Over the TOPping and cheesy
The Pizza Experience was really an experience. There are no words that could be used to describe how this event went except being psychologically traumatizing
An appreciation of Latino culture through art
When you think of Los Angeles a lot comes into mind. From the glitz and the glamour of Hollywood, to the beaches of Santa Monica and to the people that make Los Angeles such an incredible place. The Latino culture of LA has had an incredible impact in the community with their music and art. Over the weekend, LA had an opportunity to appreciate the work and culture of Latino artists in the community.
‘A Star is Born’: Dazzling mix of talent and tragedy
Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut, “A Star is Born” is a piece of pure magic. Lady Gaga transforms from the platinum art-pop diva we all know and love, into Ally, a shy, understated brunette who’s afraid to sing her own songs. Her performance is exquisite, gritty and real, you soon forget the edgy character she is in real life.
Predator: Jokes and a jumbled mess
Shane Black returns to the Predator franchise but not to reprise his role as Rick Hawkins, only this time directing the film for its third reboot/sequel. “I’m sorry I grew up the way you didn’t want to”, is a reflection on how a once dark sci-fi action thriller is turned into a comedy/action movie “blockbuster” riddled with countless movie cliches, a confusing plot and ill timed one-liners. Some may find the film’s subtle charm only due to Shane Black’s signature dark humour which is riddled …