Movie Review: ‘Maleficent’

The classic fairy tale is comprised of very predictable elements: a mystical land with magical creatures, set in a time long ago. We know very well the events that are about to unfold even before we see them. However, the revisionist, live-action look at the popular cartoon villain, the self-described “Mistress of All Evil” from […]

Graduate student’s film earns best animation at Shorttakes festival

For Ben Haist, a future in animation was not always clear. Little did he know the same storyboard he used for his UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television application would bring him substantial recognition at one of the school’s most well-known film festivals. A graduate student in film, Haist’s short film “How to See […]

Nicole Cohen, Nick Valentini to perform original songs, covers at Kerckhoff

At the tender age of 4, Nicole Cohen remembers learning how to play the piano. With a substantial amount of practice, she was able to win several music competitions and awards. What she realized, however, was that her true passion lied in guitar playing and songwriting. Cohen will display this talent at tonight’s installment of […]

Bruins to display work at UCLA’s first Art Walk

Ashley Uvina remembers how, when she was 5 years old, she created intricate figurines out of the clay set her grandparents bought her as a gift. Quickly, this became the vessel for which Uvina would develop her artistic abilities as she advanced from clay figurines to more elaborate art pieces. Utilizing an array of mediums […]

Q&A: Jason Bateman talks film directing debut, ‘Bad Words’

In addition to actor and producer, Jason Bateman adds movie director to his list of film credits with his latest project and directorial debut, “Bad Words.” “Bad Words,” which Bateman directs and stars in, follows screenwriter Andrew Dodge’s story of a bitter middle-aged man (Bateman) who forces his way into a children’s national spelling bee. […]

Theater Review: ‘The Pianist of Willesden Lane’

“The Pianist Of Willesden Lane” Directed by Hershey Felder Geffen Playhouse 4.5/5 paws Three vacant antique gilt frames, outlined by elaborate carvings on a gold surface hang above a Steinway and Sons piano. A dimly lit stage, outlined by delicately placed floral ornaments, suddenly goes pitch black. The audience, awaiting patiently in the stillness of […]

Movie Review: ‘Bad Words’

“Bad Words” Directed by Jason Bateman Focus Features 3.5 / 5.0 paws In his latest film endeavor, Jason Bateman makes a rather striking departure from the charming, straight-man role audiences are used to seeing him play. Instead, he trades that image for the bitter, foul-mouthed individual he plays in his directorial debut, “Bad Words.” Bateman […]