“Justice League” takes the stereotypical, end-of-the-world superhero movie plot and manages to make it even more predictable. With an overly straightforward plot, “Justice League” is the most recent film in the DC Extended Universe following the release of the critically acclaimed “Wonder Woman.” Although the film does adopt some of the strong humor and plot […]
Category Archives: Arts Columns
Theater review: ‘Chasing Mem’ries’
The beginning dialogues in “Chasing Mem’ries” feel a bit stale, much like the stuffy attic the play is set in. Directed by Josh Ravetch, “Chasing Mem’ries: A Different Kind of Musical” runs from Nov. 7 to Dec. 17 at the Geffen Playhouse. The play portrays the newly widowed Victoria (Tyne Daly) as she mourns the […]
Dance Break: Bruin Rhythm Operation’s tap routine is a step up in difficulty
Daily Bruin columnist Christi Carras’ limited dance background consists of bingeing episodes of “So You Think You Can Dance,” grapevining her way through high school show choir and stumbling through rehearsals at a daycare-like dance studio until the age of 8. As a personal experiment, she attended workshops and lessons for 10 campus dance groups […]
Album review: ‘reputation’
Taylor Swift’s “reputation” is more than just an album – it’s a story, and not the one listeners might expect. In what may be her most deliberate album yet, Swift interweaves two stories: her fall from grace in the public eye and a complex, difficult love story. Each individual track serves as a piece of […]
Album review: ‘Phases’
Angel Olsen’s “Phases” sends listeners through cycles of love and longing set against hypnotizing guitar chords. At first listen, the album sounds like a random mix of songs without any rhyme or reason. The minimal instrumental backgrounds on some tracks and vocals that stray outside of Olsen’s signature emotion-heavy singing disorient the listener temporarily. However, […]
Second Take: “Crazy Rich Asians” casting raises questions on Asian identity, representation
“Crazy Rich Asians” is one of the few recent Hollywood films about Asians that doesn’t feature Matt Damon or Scarlett Johansson as the lead. Jokes aside, it is incredibly rare to see an American-studio produced, ensemble film about Asians that doesn’t feature a white actor – a feat that hasn’t happened since the 1993 film, […]
Movie review: ‘Lady Bird’ presents emotional, refreshing take on coming-of-age story
“Lady Bird” is a film almost all college students can relate to. Set in 2002, the film follows rebellious student Christine ‘Lady Bird’ McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), who desires to leave her Sacramento home and continue her education in college despite her parents’ wishes. Along with the stress of visiting prospective colleges and filling out financial […]