the guide october 26, 2012
the weekly magazine for life on the hilltop
The Fall Fashion Issue
Documentary Questions State of Security G4
Taylor Swift’s Latest Ring By Spring: Facebook and Feminism G13 A Love Song to Fans G15
this issue 3 lifestyle 5 fall fashion pardon my french | state of security
FASHION IS DEMOCRACY Designers don’t control what’s in and what’s out — you do. Every time you get dressed, you’re casting a vote for the newest trends. Take a look at the hottest looks for fall, from structured blazers and flowing maxi skirts to chunky knits and elegant accessories, and we’ll show you how to make them your own. You’ll be the best-dressed person in your 8 a.m. class.
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arts & entertainment cloud atlas | taylor swift
MEAGAN KELLY/THE HOYA
COVER PHOTO BY MEAGAN KELLY
nextissue soundbite AT THE END OF THE WORLD But hey, it’s election season, and thus the LIFESTYLE
Next week, we’ll take an in-depth look at this year’s apocalypsethemed Rangila. Find out about the cultural significance of the different dances and what it takes to make the biggest show on campus come to life.
the guide Sarah Kaplan, Executive Editor Steven Piccione, Managing Editor Leonel De Velez, Photo Editor Emory Wellman, Layout Editor Hunter Main, Copy Chief Nicole Jarvis, Deputy Guide Editor Sheena Karkal, Deputy Guide Editor Emily Manbeck, Deputy Guide Editor Chris Grivas, Deputy Photo Editor Erica Wong, Deputy Photo Editor Zoe Bertrand, Deputy Layout Editor Jessica Natinsky, Deputy Layout Editor Kyle Hunter, Deputy Layout Editor Shannon Reilly, Deputy Copy Editor Jamie Slater, Deputy Copy Editor Sean Sullivan, Deputy Copy Editor
Connor Gregoire, Editor-in-Chief Victoria Edel, Guide Editor
Corrections and Clarifications If you have a comment or question about the fairness or accuracy of a story, contact Executive Editor Sarah Kaplan at (202) 687-3415 or email executive@thehoya.com. General Information THE GUIDE is published each week during the academic year with the exception of holiday and exam periods. Address all correspondence to: THE HOYA Georgetown University Box 571065 Washington, D.C. 20057-1065 The writing, articles, pictures, layout and format are the responsibility of THE HOYA and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, faculty or students of Georgetown University. Signed columns and cartoons represent the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the editorial position of THE HOYA. Georgetown University subscribes to the principle of responsible freedom of expression for student editors. THE HOYA does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, disability, color, national or ethnic origin. © 2012. THE HOYA, Georgetown University twice weekly. No part of this publication may be used without the permission of THE HOYA Board of Editors. All rights reserved. THE GUIDE is available free of charge, one copy per reader, at distribution sites on and around the Georgetown University campus. Additional copies are $1 each. Editorial: (202) 687-3415 Advertising: (202) 687-3947 Business: (202) 687-3947 Facsimile: (202) 687-2741 Email: editor@thehoya.com Online at www.thehoya.com
MeaganKelly Page 13
season to take small comments out of context and blow them out of proportion in order to further your own agenda.
omglol :D :P :) :(
MUM’S THE WORD Adele had a baby boy last weekend — or at least we think so. She never actually released an official statement. ELFISH HUMOR Stephen Colbert is set to make a cameo in the upcoming movie The Hobbit. We give this news a “Tip of the Hat.”
THAT’S AMORE Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel got hitched in Italy last Friday. We don’t think JT will be bringing sexy back anytime soon.
HE VOLUNTEERS AS TRIBUTE Liam Hemsworth twisted his knee on the set of The Hunger Games sequel. We guess the odds just weren’t in his favor.
saywhat?
“
The Carly Rae Jepsen album expresses a lot of my hard-to-verbalize impressions of love. — Lena Dunham, creator and star of “Girls”
Editors’ Picks
lifestyle
‘IRON MAN 3’
‘666 PARK AVENUE’
After releasing a “teaser-teaser trailer” and the actual trailer for Iron Man 3 the next day, it has left us clamoring to see the latest installment. After rapid-fire action scenes, destruction and plot points; the final frames of the preview footage show the lights going out on an already dilapidated Iron Man 3 logo – leaving us with a ton of questions to be answered in April of next year. GUARDIAN.CO.UK
You can’t keep a good housewife down, and if you’re Vanessa Williams, you move to another address — from Wisteria Lane to 666 Park Ave. This new ABC show manages to sell Upper East Side decadence and its dark side. A medley of spooky apparitions, money, a good cast and a mystery surrounding the building’s occult-heavy beginning means ABC might have a new guilty little pleasure on its hands. POPTOWER.COM
PUMPKIN: A NEW KIND OF DISH
BOURBON MAPLE CIDER
We’re obsessed with finding new uses for the beloved pumpkin. While everyone else is making jack-o’-lanterns or pies with them, you can use your cleaned, flesh-emptied and seedemptied pumpkin as a gourd-eous bowl for some great fall recipes. What do we suggest? Pumpkin oatmeal, risotto and fried rice ALL sound especially delicious. ELANASPANTRY.COM
As the weather cools down, it comes time to find a drink to match the season. Our recommendation? A mature twist on a favorite fall classic: “grown-up” apple cider mixed with maple syrup, applejack and bourbon — and it is sure to warm you up and be a tasty addition to your cocktail repertoire. Find the full recipe by the Burlieth Bartender, Preston Mui, online at thehoya.com. SHUTTERBEAN.COM
pardon my french
Guess Who’s Coming to This Dinner Party
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ecently, my dad was interviewed by our town newspaper because of his work on the board of the local YMCA. One of the questions he was asked was, “If you hosted a dinner party for eight, whom (living or deceased) would you invite?” His list consisted of my mom (for obvious reasons), Will Ferrell, John Belushi, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde and William Shakespeare. These choices pretty much covered his variety of tastes, and only my grandma had objections because almost half his invitees died of drug overdoses before they were 40. This got me thinking — whom would I invite to this dream dinner? If I included fictional characters, the pressure of deciding between my harem of fictional husbands might give me an aneurysm. Dolley Madison was the wife of fourth president James Madison and was a serious character. She was beloved by the American people and helped raise her husband’s popularity. She was a multi-talented “hostess with the mostess.” During the War of 1812, when the British put the torch to D.C., she single-handedly returned to the White House to save one of the most fa-
mous portraits of George Washington pionage is, granted, a rough way to go, we have. Without her, it wouldn’t be you know she has some cool stories to hanging in the National Portrait Gal- tell about crazy kinds of debauchery college kids can only dream of. lery today. The only crossover between my dad’s Until I was 14, I wanted to be an astronaut more than anything. Then, the list and my own has to be Shakespeare. Columbia exploded and eighth grade He is the king of words and, depending algebra hit me hard, so I abandoned on the day, can make me laugh or cry. that dream, but I would still invite Sally I simply just want to meet him beyond Ride. She worked 10 minutes from my his questionable portrayals on screen. Choosing between Carl Sagan, Neil house, and I did get to meet her beDeGrasse Tyson and fore she passed away Bill Nye is like choosing earlier this year — the between Kit Kat, Snickgreatest 15 minutes of ers and Sour Patch Wamy young life, hands termelons. I can’t do it down — but I just reexcept under extreme ally still want to go to duress. So I won’t. Tyspace, and talking to a NicoleJarvis son is a modern-day woman who has been astrophysicist master there is honestly going to be as close as I get — unless I want to of sass, the face behind the “We got a try to repeat Felix Baumgartner’s stunt. badass over here” meme and frequent Continuing my fascination with his- “Daily Show” contributor who can blow torically significant women, Mata Hari my mind with space knowledge. Nye is was a courtesan, exotic dancer and a the freaking Science Guy, and Sagan spy. During WWI, she spied for the Ger- rocks a knit turtleneck like nobody ever mans and may have even been a double has and created “Cosmos,” which is my agent for the French. She was the real- go-to “I’m bored on Netflix” show. Sorry life inspiration for the “femme fatale” I’m not sorry that I think space is awetrope, traveled all across the globe and some. Taran Killam may still be a pretty changed the course of history. Though being executed by a firing squad for es- new guy on “Saturday Night Live,” but
what wins me over the most is his serious ’90s kiddie cred (anybody else remember “Stuck in the Suburbs?” That was him). He is hilarious, can do impressions and, as the video that surfaced of him dancing along to Robyn’s “Call Your Girlfriend” video proves, can bust some serious moves. Ryan Gosling is vaguely intellectual movie-star eye candy. It’s totally worth him taking up a spot on the list just for the opportunity to get him to say anything containing the phrase “Hey girl” and for the chance for me to win him over with my disarming beauty, dashing wit and dedication to making “Doctor Who” everyone’s favorite TV show. As long as I can keep him away from Mata Hari, we shall be married before the night is over. Sally can officiate. This is obviously not the entire list I originally had — I had to strike a concerning number of manic-depressive artists and authors from the list — but I think I just invited some awesome people to a seriously weird evening of food, humor, dancing, outer space and hopefully the elopement of the century. Nicole Jarvis is a sophomore in the College. PARDON MY FRENCH appears every other Friday in the guide.
10.26.12 | the guide | 3
lifestyle THE PRICE OF SECURITY
jamie slater Hoya Staff Writer
Documentary Examines Reaction to Terrorism W ith the heat of election season ris- failed you,” Clarke said during that testimoing, most political conversations ny. Archived footage from the commission, focus around the immediate ques- including his testimony, is featured in the tion of who will be the next president, but documentary to frame a larger discussion of the 2010 film S.O.S.: State of Security ex- national security. “I found that Clarke’s personal story replores deeper, more lasting political issues. This documentary, directed by Academy ally reflected the story of the nation, startAward-nominated Michele Ohayon and ing with being very patriotic,” Ohayon said after the screening screened by Hoyaof the film. “I realwood on Oct. 23, “Your government failed ized that he would questions whether a vehicle but not the government you. Those entrusted with be really the story. He itself is an effective just open institution. protecting you failed you. would the door, and I “There’s nothing And I failed you.” would go and exunpatriotic about plore it on my own questioning govI wanted it ernment — in fact, — Richard Clarke, former because to be my film and that’s the very banational coordinator for security, also have as many sis of democracy,” infrastructure and counter-terrorism opinions as posRichard Clarke, sible.” former national coHoyawood is an ordinator for security, infrastructure protection and counter- organization dedicated to bringing documentaries to campus. For this event, they terrorism, says during the film. According to the documentary, at the partnered with the “Snag the Vote 2012” inibeginning of George W. Bush’s term, Clarke tiative, which aims to inform voters about had warned the administration about the 10 issues critical to the presidential election Sept. 11 attacks and their connection to by showing free independent films both onAl Qaeda before they occurred. Clarke as- line and in venues like this. After the screening, Hoyawood presisumed responsibility for the failure of the government to respond in a testimony given dent Reilly Dowd (SFS ’12) moderated a disbefore the National Commission on Terror- cussion between Ohayon, Maj. Gen. Paul ist Attacks Upon the United States in March Eaton, who is also featured in the film, Georgetown assistant government profes2004. “Your government failed you. Those en- sor Matthew Kroenig and Senior Associate trusted with protecting you failed you. And I for Homeland Security and Counterter-
ALL PHOTOS SOSTHEFILM.COM
INSIGHTFUL INPUT The documentary features commentary from national security professionals and others immediately affected by the 9/11 attacks.
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A SEAMLESS APPROACH Academy Award-nominated director Michele Ohayon began filming State of Security in March 2004. rorism Daniel B. Prieto, who called in via Skype from London. Throughout the film, national security professionals’ testimonies about issues still facing America today support Clarke’s emphasis on the importance of questioning government and forcing it to be responsible. The film moves seamlessly between short, insightful comments made by over a dozen national security professionals, poignant testimonies from families and individuals dealing with the results of the Sept. 11 attacks and perfectly timed historical footage. In doing so, a holistic picture of the post-9/11 world is created that sustains viewer interest. But the film doesn’t monger fear. There are few violent images — the iconic image of the burning towers of the World Trade Center is intentionally left out, according to Ohayon — and no one ever says that Americans should be afraid. Instead, the film’s message is pragmatic, emphasizing a need for government to change its ways. “We’re good at the business of peacemaking and we need to get back to it. And that’s how we’ll win the war of ideas — with our actions, not just with talk,” Bruce Reidel, formerly of the Central Intelligence Agency and National Security
Council, said. The role of the American people — youth especially — is also emphasized, as a group of war veterans says: “We look at the government as, ‘they are all knowing.’ It’s the good of the people and it’s the American public that makes the decisions.” Echoing this point, in the post-film panel Gen. Eaton stated, “If your leadership is immune to good advice from young people, it will not do well.” While it is certainly a call to vote, the film never addresses the question of how the American public should view these issues or which party or politician would best solve these problems. At first, this seems like a drawback, especially because it deals so much with problems that, like terrorism, the American people cannot solve alone. The panelists also discussed issues that, while fascinating, were much too theoretical to be useful in pollingplace decisions. The film ends with clips of America’s brightest moments — the moon landing, John F. Kennedy’s famed inauguration speech and, more recently, American soldiers dancing with Middle Eastern children. With this ending seems to come the main message of State of Security: The power to change these problems is in the hands of the American people.
seasonal style
What I love about fashion is its accessibility and its democracy. Everyone wears it, and everyone relates to it. - Miuccia Prada
Miuccia Prada’s philosophy that high fashion should be for all women, not just models, inspired us to find fashionable students who seamlessly incorporate runway trends into their everyday wardrobes. Maddy Howe (COL ‘13), Aya Waller-Bey (COL ‘14) and Chloe Smith (SFS ‘13) joined us at the Capitol building to exercise their right to personal style. We put their looks side by side with the designer ones that influenced them. In the spirit of accessibility, the looks seen here were put together using clothes from their own personal closets.
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Skirting the Issue Long skirts are back with a vengeance. Toughen up your maxi and midi skirts with a leather jacket or a spiked necklace.
FALL FASHION ISSUE | 7
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ALL RUNWAY PHOTOS VOGUE.COM
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Pumped
Up Knits
Bring your LauďŹ t to the next level and pair your coziest sweaters with something unexpected — a statement necklace, your favorite skirt or an armful of bangles.
go for the gold.
FALL FASHION ISSUE | 9
Trail Blazers The simplest way to take an outďŹ t from standard issue to Capitol chic is to throw on a blazer. Try a jewel tone that will make your outďŹ t pop or opt for equestrian- and military-inspired looks, which are decidedly on trend this fall. 10 | the guide | 10.26.12
ALL PHOTOS VOGUE.COM
spice things up
with a bold collar.
FALL FASHION ISSUE | 11
acknowledgements Modeling by Maddy Howe, Chloe Smith and Aya Waller-Bey Styling by Michelle Cassidy, Suzanne Fonzi, Maddy Howe, Lindsay Lee, Chloe Smith and Aya Waller-Bey Photography by Michelle Cassidy and Meagan Kelly Design by Michelle Cassidy, Victoria Edel, Suzanne Fonzi and Jessica Natinsky
arts&entertainment Retrospective Pops at National Gallery
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ntering an exhibit for Roy Lichtenstein’s art is a bit like stepping into both a comic book and Saturday morning cartoon. Known as the man who defined and redefined pop art, Lichtenstein created pieces that are whimsically simple; a multitude of dots, straight lines and basic colors compose the majority of his work, although everything from Mickey Mouse to nude paintings are on display. Often known as a lighter counterpart to Andy Warhol, The National Gallery’s new exhibit, “Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective” offers a vivid, playful depiction of 1950s America. Set up in distinct sections representing Lichtenstein’s different creative periods, the exhibit is as accessible as the art, which utilizes power, scale and giddy dignity to represent mid-19th century consumerism and domesticity. “Look Mickey,” his first painting, greets every museumgoer with the familiar sight of Disney characters. Although it helped the struggling artist begin to be taken seriously, it boasts figures we are familiar with even today. Lichtenstein pulled inspiration from life as we know it; in his black-and-white works, entire canvases are taken over by tires, composition books, balls of twine, radios, desk calendars and waters fizzing with
Alka-Seltzer tablets. Here, the subjects are isolated, and the artist is hidden; observers are forced to realize that although these material objects may seem vitally important to us, they appear almost inconsequential when we expect to see art but only see everyday items. Perhaps best known for his romance and war paintings, Lichtenstein drew upon comic books in order to create art that literally tells a story. Each romance piece features a woman talking with or thinking about a man and are intended to represent the limited role of woman in 1950s society. He utilizes basic colors and facial expressions to portray the underlying emotion: for example, “Ohhh… Alright…” features a woman with a phone frowning, her forehead crinkled with a combination of disappointment and annoyance, emotions that are further emphasized by her fire-truck red hair, the only non-neutral color in the piece. In “Drowning Girl,” another young woman is seen embroiled in tumultuous waves, her romantic woes underscored by her blue hair and gushing tears. The war paintings are similar but instead feature military figures inspired by the then-popular DC comic, “All-Ameri-
can Men of War.” Some are designed as comic book strips, such as “As I Opened Fire,” which is broken into three sections with bright yellow text boxes, while others are explosion-dominated canvases. However, each represents what Lichtenstein refers to as the “pregnant moment” — the crux from which one might imagine the rest of the story. The paintings are almost grotesquely cartoonish in their depiction of war and gender roles in society, but that’s a large part of their impact. Scrutinizing Roy Lichtenstein’s art is similar to flipping through the Sunday comics and the simplicity only helps to emphasize the materialistic, violent, and often sexually imbalanced nature of midcentury culture. But Lichtenstein developed beyond the cartoon-style; in his later years, he created Picasso-like still lives and chaotic representations of women in “Femme d’Alger.” He experimented with circular canvases intended to reflect mirrors, and he delved into complete abstractions. He dedicated a period of his career to nudes, and before his rather abrupt death, Lichtenstein concluded with his “landscapes in the Chinese style” that feature less color and more artistic delicacy where his
kim bussing Special to The Hoya
NGA.ORG
POP OFF THE CANVAS Lichtenstein’s art is known for its dramatic primary colors. dots transition into a part of the physical background. Roy Lichtenstein’s pieces are distinctive, and you never forget your first time. His style is unforgettable and identifiable in its overstated bright colors and understated representation of 1950s American society. The exhibit is a dynamic collection of Lichtenstein’s vastly diverse, culturally relevant artwork that offers engaging paintings and sculptures sure to appeal to any visitor, even if he can’t differentiate between a Picasso and a Monet.
ring by spring
Old-School Misogyny Meets Modern-Day Technology
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his past week, I violated one of my own cardinal rules of social media: Do not be involved in a political or ideological debate on Facebook. You know how when you’re scrolling through your Facebook newsfeed and you come across that status made in jest that is related to a social issue, but someone comments on it with a paragraph of opinionated politics that just kills the mood? Nobody likes that guy. That guy makes things awkward. But I was “that guy.” In my defense, the status was that of a male quite close to me and was slightly offensive towards women. Given my relation with this gentleman, I felt less bad about raining on his manly parade. Not to mention, as a feminist, I seized the opportunity to make sure the men closest to me understand a few things about being a lady. The young gentleman in question updated his Facebook status saying, “OMG U GUYZ SEE THAT LAY UP IN THE WNBA FINALZ? Nah me neither nobody did.” Now let me clarify one thing that
Let me take my feelings outside of the I’m not sure I was able to convey in my one string of politically obnoxious context of professional female athletics Facebook comments: I know not a lot because — let’s face it, although I may of people watch professional women’s have a sweet spot from the top corner basketball. What I was trying to convey of the key and a left-handed layup, my is this: Female professional athletes are height just leaves me not cut out for the largely ignored by popular media. In big leagues. This status got me particularly fiery doing this, my dear friend unintentionbecause the ideas behind it ally perpetuated this misogwill soon be directly appliynistic idea that a woman in cable to my life. Women in a professional athletic field many professional fields are is a comedic anomaly. The still tokenized, seen as anomback-and-forth comment alies or even “cute.” No, it fight was kept “fun” and doesn’t happen everywhere danced the line around MeaganKelly and does not apply across the awkward by sticking lightboard, and, yes, it is 2012, and hearted, unrelated jokes in thanks to countless women between point-making but ultimately, I pulled out of the debate who’ve come before me, I have nearly because I realized my point would not every opportunity open to me in this be perfectly made without getting se- country. But it does happen. And whethrious — and I just wasn’t ready to go er it’s conscious or not, something althere. I realized if I truly wanted him ways hangs in the back of a young gal’s to understand the offensive nature of mind when she applies for jobs or even his comment, I could have a reasonable chooses a major: Don’t get too upset over conversation with him outside of a pub- anything because then you’re the “overly emotional woman.” These stereotype lic forum — or write an article about it.
threats are subconsciously dictating our every move. But there’s nothing unusual about my and every other woman’s excelling in whatever we do. No one should be impressed that I can contribute to a political debate. I’m a human being, I’m literate and I have access to the Internet. And just because there aren’t hundreds of thousands of people tuning in to watch a woman play basketball professionally doesn’t mean the players don’t want to see their profession to be minimized or to be seen as something of a rarity. Now I know the referred-to young man has read this and is thinking I’ve gone way overboard reacting to a light-hearted Facebook status. But it’s election season, and thus the season to take small comments out of context and blow them out of proportion in order to further your own agenda. Now what’s this I heard about binders full of women? Meagan Kelly is a senior in the College. RING BY SPRING appears every Friday in the guide.
10.26.12 | the guide | 13
arts&entertainment small-screen obsessions
Politicians in Tiaras Take the Stage
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on’t worry — I promise I won’t his campaign. President Obama talked to Jay get political. It’s just that questions about Leno on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” our presidential candidates’ televi- this week. He appeared on Comedy sion presences have been running Central’s “The Daily Show” with Jon through my head for a few weeks Stewart a few weeks ago and on CBS’ now, most obviously because of their “Late Show with David Letterman” televised debates. The debates are TV last month. These appearances are events in their own right, and while his way of making sure his message their actual effectiveness is arguable, still gets out there (though certainly their popularity is not: about 60 mil- to fewer viewers) amidst the contralion viewers tuned in to each of the dictions thrown around in the dethree presidential debates, the last of bates. They’re still performances, but which took place Monday night. Pun- they’re ones in which Obama has dits, critics and commentators have more control over the script. In this had a lot to say about these perfor- way, talk show appearances can be mances, whether it be about the can- their own gimmick (though I could didates’ assertiveness (or lack thereof), say that about any political strategy). Considering the ability to shape the vitriol in their comments or the public perception that comes along size of their American flag pins. Really, everything has been covered. with a talk-show appearance, I wonBut what was there for the truly unde- der how, if at all, Mitt Romney’s choice cided voters — because they are, after to actively avoid late-night talk shows will affect his standing. all, the ones whom the Romney has avoided debates are supposed not just late-night to help — to glean from talk shows but all talk any of it? Not much shows. He has avoided by the way of truth, ABC’s “The View” in if you ask me. That I particular, saying that needed to watch each BridgetMullen appearing on the show debate with PolitiFact would be “high risk” at hand in order to sort out the lies (or half-truths) being for him because co-host Elisabeth thrown in both directions is evidence Hasselbeck is the show’s only conserenough. So taking it as a near-given vative. Romney was scheduled to apthat the debates aren’t the most use- pear this month on the show with his ful decision-making tools, why do we wife, Ann, but cancelled, and Ann appeared on the show alone last week. keep watching? Romney could have benefited from I have one word for you: theatricality. We are fixated by these concrete more TV appearances throughout his dramatizations of the disagreements campaign; perhaps such a strategy that the candidates’ opposing view- would have enabled the public to get points have set up from the beginning to know him better and to separate of this presidential race. I think many him from his sharp-toothed debate of us know this about ourselves; the persona. Or maybe he was smart to candidates certainly know it about avoid situations in which the spin us. Why else would they go through on his personality might have been such strenuous debate preparations? unfavorable because that’s the key: Debate prep is rehearsal for perhaps the spin. Whether in dog-eat-dog-eatthe biggest performances of their moderator debates or in more overtly campaigns, where they will have the friendly talk-show appearances, candiopportunity to be heard by more dates are manipulating truths —and Americans at once than in any other we keep buying into it. For all of their situation. Yet in this presentation to expert knowledge and skill, candidates the masses, issues get lost. President are little more than actors to us — and Obama has openly stated that he not always good ones, at that — in the does not like the televised debates; midst of their campaigns. essentially, he finds them gimmicky and more about selling yourself than Bridget Mullen is a sophomore in the anything else. Interestingly, however, College. SMALL-SCREEN OBSESSIONS he has chosen to make other kinds of appears every other Friday in the television appearances throughout guide.
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Inventive Adaptation Of an Epic Novel BREANNA MORET Special to The Hoya
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he press screening for Cloud Atlas stories included the tale of Adam Ewing took place after a long Monday full of (Jim Sturgess) in the Pacific Islands in 1849, classes and the longest bus ride of my whose journal is read by Robert Frobisher life in the middle of rush-hour traffic. Need- (Ben Whishaw), a penniless musician living less to say, when I walked into the theater in 1931 Belgium. Frobisher’s letters are sent I wasn’t in the right frame of mind for the to his lover, Rufus Sixsmith (James D’Arcy) three-hour epic that was about to unfold. who is later involved in a fraud case in the However, the beautiful storytelling abilities 1970s that Luisa Rey (Halle Berry) exposes. of directors Tom Tykwer, Andy Wachowski Rey’s life is made into a thriller novel by publisher Timothy Cavendish (Jim Broadand Lana Wachowski won me over. First, I will say that I’m a big believer in bent) in present day. His life story is made reading the book before seeing the movie into a movie watched by Sonmi 451 (Doona — the former is always better. That being Bae), a clone in a totalitarian society in the said, Cloud Atlas stayed true to the book future, who is later believed to be a goddess but with a different organization. The book by Zachry (Tom Hanks), a tribesman living in the post-apocalyptackles six individual stories in chronologitic future. cal order, but stops As convoluted at the halfway point as it sounds, the of each and then bemovie makes it all gins the next story. work. There are CLOUD ATLAS The final narrative, some pacing probstarring: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, which is set in a postlems, but these are Jim Sturgess apocalyptic future, is almost guaranteed told in completion, with a three-hour and then the stories running time. The finish in reverse star-studded cast chronological order, ending with the sec- is praiseworthy, each appearing in mulond half of the first tale set in the Pacific tiple story arcs in different characters Islands in 1849. That description alone is and changing races, genders and personenough to give you a headache, but David alities. Kudos to the makeup department Mitchell weaves them together seamlessly. for the film — they did such a great job The film, seeking a visually stimulating that it may take half of the movie for you method to match Mitchell’s creativity, choos- to realize that three different characters es to introduce all six narratives at once and are played by the same actor. to juggle each story throughout the film, Looking beyond the overlapping stories switching back and forth to advance each told in Cloud Atlas, there is a larger statesegment forward a little at a time. It’s an in- ment being made about humankind. The teresting way to acquaint the audience with themes of freedom, love and connectedall of the characters, but it also required ness pervade throughout each segment something of a mental workout to actively of the film. One character’s choices, good be aware of what century and which char- or bad, have an effect on other characters acters any given scene contained. The six and the world as a whole. The film heralds the right for all to love and be free and illustrates how, in the end, we’re all linked together. That may sound cheesy, but the film executes these ideas in innovative and interesting ways. You might just find yourself thinking about these grand concepts and asking heady questions, and that’s just what the film wants you to do. Cloud Atlas is outside genre classification because it has action and romance, sci-fi and comedy, adventure and drama. It’s a ROTTENTOMATOES.COM movie to see for its character development TIME FLIES Cloud Atlas weaves and pure imagination. Just go in with an together plots from six time periods. open mind and three hours to spare.
arts&entertainment
New Releases
A Delightfully Aged Brandy
EMILY MANBECK Hoya Staff Writer
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or many artists whose stardom began during their childhood, fans worry that their sound and image will change so drastically that they will never again create music like that which first made them popular. Teen legend Brandy Norwood, however, has released five records over 15 years that have blended the genres of hip-hop, blues, funktronica and pop. Now, Brandy has returned to her R&B roots in her sixth studio album, Two Eleven — proving that Cinderella can still rock the same glass slippers but now in this season’s latest style. Two Eleven hits the airwaves after her unsuccessful urban pop record Human in 2008. A reference to her Feb. 11 birth date, the album’s title also pays tribute to Whitney Houston, who died on the same day this year. Dealing with the themes of rebirth and renewal, Brandy draws from some of her life’s disappointments — like breaking off her engagement to NBA guard Quentin Richardson in 2005 and causing a car accident in 2006 — and applies her pain to the music. No longer the young girl from her earliest albums who is unsure of her feelings, Brandy is a mature woman who expresses her love in a contemplative, poignant way and communicates her remorse and desire to move forward. In “Without You,” “No Such Thing As Too Late” and “Hardly Breathing,” Brandy showcases her vocal range and portrays the emotions associated with each stage of relationships with simple yet meaningful lyrics. Combined with soft beats and soulful harmonies, all three singles allow the listener to relate to the singer’s message. They present a stark contrast to her
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Special to The Hoya
‘FIRST DATE’ I 50 CENT (FEAT. TOO $HORT)
In his new single, which features Too $hort, 50 Cent doesn’t leave anyone guessing what he looks for on a first date. Unfortunately, his lyrics are so painfully straightforward that he has failed to create any of the clever nuances that often populate rap today. The track has a steady beat but lacks musical variation and depth, leaving it overall incredibly boring. RCA
BACK TO HER ROOTS Brandy returns to the success of her well-known R&B Style. earlier R&B hits whose head-bopping rhythms drowned out any sense of significance in the lyrics. Brandy also collaborated with DJ Bangladesh and singer Chris Brown for a few of the album’s tracks, adding somewhat of a hip-hop flair to her collection of smooth tunes. In “Put It Down,” her collaboration with Brown, she performs an up-tempo rap. Of the two tracks produced by Bangladesh, “Let Me Go” stands out as a potential radio hit. Fusing Brandy’s and Swedish sensation Lykke Li’s music, Bangladesh produces a club-style single that mixes ethnic pop melodies with the soft pulsing of R&B. Two Eleven will please those who enjoy Brandy’s old music in that it retains her classic R&B style. However, by presenting contemplative lyrics and displaying her incredible, matured vocal range, Brandy proves that she is no longer the naive teenager she played in “Moesha.”
Angry Swift Expands Her Sound aylor Swift is consistent. Whether she is lamenting over a broken heart, bashing an ex-lover or gallivanting through a passionate yet shortlived relationship, one knows what to expect. Every tune is catchy, and each track is beautifully produced. Country, pop and everything in between: Red, her newest album, delivers. On Swift’s fourth album, she ventures to different, though often-charted, territory to deliver her trademark tunes to a wider fan base and expand her appeal as America’s number-one pop princess. Red seems to be tailored (pun intended) to please the masses and is clearly aimed at dominating the radio waves. Some songs feel soulless and terrible, but she manages to redeem herself on other great tracks. Swift has not sold out per se, but Red lacks an originality that most musicians hope to retain despite years of success. The album is up and down, and devoted fans will either love her shift in
CAROLINE DESANTIS
sound or resent her for becoming just like every other pop artist. Swift begins her pop-infused country escape with “State of Grace.” A hopeful and refreshing start, the first track is classic Swift with an R.E.M inspired, wistful alternative-rock spin. The title track is another great Taylor Swift tune. With lyrics such as “Loving him is like driving a new Maserati down a dead end street / faster than the wind / passionate as sin, ended so suddenly,” the listener is captivated by her shameless and constantly wavering love life. A song about passionate and tragic love, this track will not disappoint fans. It may sound like every other Swift song we shamefully listen to on repeat, but it remains catchy, fun and easy. “Treacherous,” a romantic and desperate love song, slows the album’s pace for a brief time, but the spirit of the album picks back up with “I Knew You Were Trouble.” This track is pop at its finest. It may be a little too synthetic for some
50CENT.COM
‘SHINE’ | OUTASIGHT
Outasight’s bouncy and upbeat rap single featuring Chiddy Bang is a little bit of a miss. The song’s twinkling background music and fun lyrics create a lighthearted feeling but are a tad juvenile. The song is borderline annoying is catchy if nothing else and offers an uplifting and motivational message — to “shine your light on the world.”
soundcloud.COM
‘FLOWER’ | JEWEL
Jewel’s complex vocals, a delicate acoustic accompaniment and the inspirational lyrics of her new single create a simply beautiful song. The melody is comforting and the lyrics offer a message of encouragement. Part of the proceeds from purchasing this single will go to the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Fund charity.
fans, but it’s fun and great for middle school dances around America. This song feels different from Swift’s other top radio hits, but it is still captivating and will likely be incredibly popular. The next notable track is “22,” which will be a disappointment to anyone interested in Swift as a musician. The opening lines, “It feels like a perfect night to dress up like hipsters and make fun of our exes,” is just extremely off putting. Not only are the lyrics horrendous, but I am pretty sure I have heard the same song from Ke$ha and other pop trolls. The same applies to tracks such as “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” It is bubble-gum pop mixed with pointless lyrics and the annoying repetition of the word “like.” Taylor Swift is expanding her fan base, which is natural for an artist, but it may sound like she is selling out in the process. While there are a couple of annoying mishaps on Red, the album as a whole
extrasounds.net
chloe lerman Special to The Hoya
BIG MACHINE RECORDS
VARIATION ON A THEME Taylor Swift sticks to her tried-and-true formulas.
is a great addition to Taylor Swift’s repertoire. She continues to develop as an artist and is clearly influenced by what the public wants to hear. If you count yourself among Swift’s fans — or even if you don’t — you will definitely find some gems on Red.
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city waters — sheena karkal
on campus Trick-or-Treating on Embassy Row Friday, 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. — Embassy Row
The SFS Academic Council proves that trick-ortreating has no age limit. All those ready to dress to impress in their Halloween costumes are invited to walk down Embassy Row and trick-or-treat along the way. Students can easily take the Dupont Circle GUTS bus or the MetroBus for transportation, and the SFS Academic Council will be handing out maps. It’s sure to be the perfect start to Halloween weekend.
Halloween Laser Tag Friday, 10 p.m. — Copley Lawn
Copley Lawn is your destination for all your Halloween fun this Friday. After you play laser tag in your Halloween costume, you can decorate your own mask and trick-or-treating bag while munching on Halloween candy and s’mores. Be sure to stop by for free food.
Georgetown Improv Association Show Saturday, 9 p.m. — Bulldog Alley
Come out and support college comedy. The Georgetown Improv Association is having its first show of the semester this Saturday, and each show is completely unscripted, unrehearsed and unique. The Improv Association actively involves the audience in its shows. Tickets are $4.
‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ Saturday, 11:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. — E Street Theater
Georgetown Program Board is offering discounted tickets and transportation to The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It’s a hilarious horror parody that has collected a cult following who dress up as characters from the movie and follow a script of responses. Dress up in your best costume and join in, or just sit back and enjoy. It’s a memorable experience worth making part of your Halloween rituals.
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Feel the need to get your dance on? Look no further than U Street, which will be hosting Carl Craig, Detroit’s hottest techno DJ. Craig’s signature style is remixing world beats and jazz songs. During the six-hour set, you can dance into the wee morning hours with all your friends.
If Halloween is the sole reason you made it through midterms, Zombie Fest is your event. Hosted at Half Street Fairgrounds, this huge outdoor festival will feature some of D.C.’s most popular food trucks, classic Halloween horror films, a dance party hosted by DJ Lil’e and a zombie costume contest.
Everyone knows that loving cupcakes is practically a prerequisite for attending Georgetown. Celebrate with a two-hour tour of three of Georgetown’s most famous cupcake shops. It will highlight the history of our neighborhood and will include stops (and cupcakes) at Baked and Wired, Sprinkles and Georgetown Cupcake.
WHERE: U Street Music Hall WHEN: Starts at 10 p.m. INFO: ustreetmusichall.com PRICE: $10 METRO: Federal Triangle or Metro Center
WHERE: 1299 Half St. SE WHEN: 6 p.m. INFO: zombie.arlingtondrafthouse.com PRICE: $20 METRO: Farragut West
WHERE: Corner of Q and 27th Streets, NW WHEN: 10 a.m. INFO: octobercupcaketour.eventbrite.com PRICE: $20 METRO: Gallery Pl-Chinatown
Casey Gunkel & Caitlin Sanders Special to The Hoya