The Hoya Guide: Feb. 8, 2013

the guide february 8, 2013

the weekly magazine for life on the hilltop

A Measure Of Self Students Battling Eating Disorders

Senior Theater Majors Play to Strengths G4

DC on Rye: A Sogginess Problem

G9

‘Side Effects’ Spotlights Talented Cast G11

this issue ‘TWO LANES TO FREEDOM’ 3 lifestyle feature 6 food&drink 8 soundbite arts & 10 entertainment guideonline

TIM MCGRAW’S NEW ALBUM HITS HOME

the cochran gallery | culture shock

a measure of self

INDIECONCERTS.COM

This 20-year veteran of the country music scene is back with his newest album, Two Lanes to Freedom. Be sure to go online and check out the guide’s review and find out if he successfully navigated a tough split from his record label to retain his trademark twang. Hopefully, the new songs won’t put his fans in a “Mexicoma” —yeah, that’s the name of a song on the album.

ris | j. paul’s

Audrey AudreyWilson Page 5

‘house of cards’ | josh groban

saywhat

“

I turned into the most perverted guy ... following him into rooms and staring at his ass.

”

— Jennifer Lawrence on seeing John Stamos at a party

“As a side note, the outdoor market also provides an unparalleled spot for people-watching in the District — if you’re into that kind of thing.”

newreleases ‘NOW’ | PARAMORE 

With two founding members gone and four years having passed since their last album release, Paramore comes back surprisingly strong in their latest single, “Now.” Industrial-reggae rhythms and heavy guitar chords amplify lead singer Hayley Williams’ pleading lyrics, hinting at her desire to keep the band together. This is definitely a recreated comeback worth listening to.

DIGITALSPY.COM

the guide Braden McDonald, Executive Editor Victoria Edel, Managing Editor Hunter Main, Copy Chief Zoe Bertrand, Layout Editor Leonel De Velez, Photo Editor Kim Bussing, Deputy Guide Editor Nicole Jarvis, Deputy Guide Editor Emily Manbeck, Deputy Guide Editor Chris Grivas, Deputy Photo Editor Erica Wong, Deputy Photo Editor Jessica Natinsky, Deputy Layout Editor Kennedy Shields, Deputy Layout Editor Ian Tice, Deputy Layout Editor David Chardack, Deputy Copy Editor Shannon Reilly, Deputy Copy Editor Sean Sullivan, Deputy Copy Editor

Danny Funt, Editor-in-Chief Sheena Karkal, Guide Editor Corrections and Clarifications If you have a comment or question about the fairness or accuracy of a story, contact Executive Editor Braden McDonald at (202) 6873415 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. © 2013. 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

‘KARMA’ | KRISTINA MARIE 

Step aside Carly Rae Jepsen, newcomer Kristina Maria might be offering some stiff competition for the popanthem crown this year. The Ottawa-born singer clearly hopes to capture the world’s attention with this new single, and with its catchy lyrics and usual pop sound, “Karma” might just be the next song playing on repeat on every top hit station.

MUSICCANADA.WORDPRESS.COM

‘ANOTHER LOVE’ | TOM ODELL 

If you are looking for a heart-breaking, sensual and addicting track, then this is the song for you. Singer/ songwriter and U.K. native Tom Odell recently won the 2013 BRITs Critics’ Choice Award and just wrapped up a U.S. tour. This song, characteristic of Odell, begins with a beautiful keyboard ballad but escalates quickly with forceful lyrics and haunting chants. We definitely suggest adding this one to your “break-up playlist.”

SONGONLYRICS.COM

lifestyle

Local Landmark Inherits Legal Issue W hen exploring the sights of Washington, D.C., Georgetown students often overlook museums, like the Newseum and International Spy Musem, because they charge an entrance fee. Some of the District’s privately-owned establishments offer one-of-a-kind collections that are worth their admission price.

And one of these attractions, the Corcoran Gallery of Art — the city’s oldest art museum that is also well-known for its College of Art and Design — has been gracing the pages of The Washington Post this year for its decrease in donor involvement and rumored relocation from its Beaux-Arts building on 17th Street. Most recently, however, the gallery has been caught up in a legal battle concerning the inheritance of a $25 million Monet.

Huguette Clark, the deceased owner of the famous French painting, was the daughter of former Senator and Corcoran benefactor William A. Clark, and she led a mostly reclusive and private life until her death on May 24, 2011. Prior to her passing, two weeks before her 105th birthday, Clark

had created three different wills, each bequeathing different sums of money, artworks and other valuables on multiple personal and professional parties. The last of these wills specified the establishment of the Bellosguardo Foundation, a museum located in her Santa Barbara, Calif., mansion containing all of the art in her collection — except a piece from Monet’s “Water Lilies” series that has not been viewed in public since 1930.

In her third will, Clark decided to bestow this painting on the Corcoran, one of the many institutions that her personal fortune has funded. Neither of her previous wills recognizes the gallery, and even now, the third will is being contested. Surprisingly enough, the Corcoran has raised objections to the legitimacy of Clark’s final will.

According to The Washington Post, Harvey Corn, the lawyer of Clark’s private nurse Hadassah Peri — to whom she left $5 million — said in a hearing, “This is an institution that’s going broke. … They ought to be sitting here and protecting their $25 million asset. … They may be doing the bid-

ding of family members when they should be doing the bidding of the beneficiaries of the Corcoran.”

With the addition of this new Monet to their collection, the museum, which reported a $7.2 million deficit last June, could attract more tourists and potentially generate enough profit to finance a $130 million project to renovate and raise it to modern museum standards.

However, the museum may be hesitating to accept the Monet due to the knowledge that Clark’s health and memory were declining when she signed the final will in April 2005. The Corcoran also speculates that Clark may have been unduly influenced or incompetent — she had been diagnosed with dementia not too long before — because she signed her second of the three wills only six weeks prior.

The Corcoran has not released a statement explaining its position, but considering that the last two wills may be proved illegitimate because of Clark’s mental instability, the family could actually inherit everything, leaving the gallery without the

EMILY MANBECK Hoya Staff Writer Monet. In this case, the Corcoran would keep a $3 million trust created by Clark’s mother in the 1920s. Though the museum’s motives and prospect of bequest remain unclear, hopefully the increased coverage of their financial and legal state may serve to increase tourism and generate new revenue for the foundation and its school.

SIPWITHSOCIALITES.COM

A MONET PROBLEM The Corcoran Gallery of Art has been involved in a legal battle over a rare Monet.

Remakes Suffer From Growing Pains At the guide, our staff is known for having strong opinions about pretty much everything. We’re taking stands on the pop culture issues that really matter, from tween stars to the movies that make us smile, from catchy pop songs to the stories that are dominating the Internet.

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LUVVYLLASHINE.BLOGSPOT.COM

TODDLERS TO TWEENS The Powerpuff Girls have gotten a sassy makeover.

hen we bid adieu to our favorite childhood TV shows, we send them off with a R.I.P. and a promise to rehash them over a Leo’s dinner during midterms — remembering Spongebob bringing it around town always make us smile. And with recent news of revamps and remakes for some of these series, namely “Boy Meets World,” we become overly excited that we can relive the glory days of elementary school — even if these shows may not be as sophisticated as those we’re currently obsessed with, like “Game of Thrones.” Let’s just say that one these gets rid of awkward sexual tension.

Among the programs that will be reincarnated is “The Powerpuff Girls,” a Cartoon Network series

about three kindergarten-aged superheroines who fight against evil monkeys threatening to take over or destroy their beloved Townsville.

These adorable little crime-fighting divas made a huge impact on us back in the late ’90s. Representing “sugar, spice and everything nice,” Blossom, Buttercup and Bubbles taught us early on that anyone can stick up for what is right and fight what is wrong. Call us crazy, but the Powerpuff Girls were — and heck, still are — symbols of female empowerment.

And maybe that’s why we’re excited for younger generations to experience this phenomenon. Cartoon Network has released a photo of the new Powerpuff Girls, who, thankfully, do not look too different from the old ones.

It has also come to our attention that Cartoon Network Philippines has been broadcasting an English-dubbed anime version of the series on Boomerang, and the girls are incredibly different. Though it has yet to appear in the U.S., “Powerpuff Girls Z” can be found on YouTube, and it features a tweenage version of our favorite supergirls. What we find disturbing about this reboot is that it portrays

Blossom, Buttercup and Bubbles as sassy — and not in the adorable toddler way. Unlike the original little trio who treated Mrs. Keane and Professor Utonium with kindness and respect, this new gang does not care about following the rules of classroom (or really any proper) etiquette; for example, they address their teacher as “Yo, Teach!” and lie that they’re sick when they want to leave school and save the world. Also disheartening is that the anime illustrators have tried to add sex appeal to the Powerpuff Girls’ look, trading their trademark white tights and Mary Janes for miniskirts and low cut unitards.

We recognize that superhero comics often must grow with their audience, meaning that illustrators must make their female heroines marketable to male as well as female fans. But it still seems that some childhood memories should be kept sacred — even if it’s just for our own need to reminisce on days not plagued by midterms — in all their “sugar, spice and everything nice” glory. Let’s hope the U.S. reboot doesn’t get as sexist and weird and keeps our childhood alive.

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lifestyle Adventures in ‘wanderland’ Theater Majors Present Senior Thesis Performances Nicole Jarvis Hoya Staff Writer

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hether it’s an improv perfor- pany dedicated to providing career and mance, a classical tragedy or casting information and advice for asa critically acclaimed musical, piring performers.

While there may not be very many there is always a new student-run drama circulating at Georgetown. Home of them — Theatre Department Directo the oldest collegiate theater society tor Maya Roth says that there are only in the country — Mask & Bauble — and about eight Theatre and Performance numerous other acting groups, the Studies majors in the class of 2013 — Hilltop boasts one of the most active the competition for the two openings and beloved performance arts scenes for senior thesis writers on the Davis in Washington, D.C. And though we Performing Arts Center’s schedule is all love to support our friends as they always fierce. According to Roth, the thesis selectake center process stage in ex“As an art major as well, I wanted tion began over tracurricular to try to combine elements of fine a year ago, plays at Poulton Hall and and performance art because that when all interested thethe Davis Perhas never really been done at ater majors forming Arts prepared Center, we ofGeorgetown.” and submitten do not rected proposognize those — Swedian Lie (COL ’13) als, articustudents belating how hind the curtheir original performances would tains pursuing dramatic arts degrees.

The Georgetown Theatre and Perfor- culminate their theater experience at mance Studies program hasn’t always Georgetown. Applicants have to be honbeen a notable program, but now they ors level within the department and are . The program, known for its small have some coursework and theatrical size and academic rigor, has been experience in areas relevant to producranked as the second best theatre pro- tion, such as direction, stage managegram in the nation outside of New York ment or design. Once they are selected,

by Back Stage, an entertainment com- they are given faculty advisors, and the creation and editing process begins.

This year, the students offering their artistic visions for the Georgetown community in “Wanderland” are Alice Cash (COL ’13) and Swedian Lie (COL ’13).

The first of the two performances, “Golden Shard,” is helmed by Cash, who was inspired to produce her own work after hearing the story of the creation of Lewis Carrol’s “Alice in Wonderland.”

“The story itself is kind of weird, but the backstory behind it is incredibly complex and it’s not told very much. It’s also the 150th anniversary of when the story was told, so I think it’s a good time to tell it,” Cash said.

Cash had been fascinated with the story of the creation of Alice in Wonderland and the friendship between Lewis Carrol (the pen name of writer Charles Dodgson) and his young muse Alice ALEXANDER BROWN/THE HOYA Lidell since high school, and worked CREATIVE PROCESS Senior theater with her faculty advisors — especially thesis projects are a major undertaking. her lead advisor, professor Derek Gold-

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COURTESY OF CAITLIN DUTKIEWICZ

VISUALIZING THE ARTS Senior Swedian Lie explores the complex theories of person identity in his thesis performance, “Chiaroscuro.” man — in taking the story of their unique relationship and adapting it for the stage while maintaining her artistic vision.

This form of adaptation is certainly not the only way to create interesting and original theatrical performance.

Lie’s original work takes a very different approach to create a dynamic and visual final product. The work is called “Chiaroscuro,” named for the painting technique that calls attention to the dramatic play between highlights and shadows — a theme that Lie threads throughout the performance.

“It’s an exploration of identity,” Lie said. “I’m a Chinese-Indonesian, but I live in the States so I have divided loyalty, and the show is about navigating the mysterious grey zone of identity.”

While he initially proposed a oneman-show with himself in the lead, his production has evolved through workshops and faculty cooperation to

a three-person show, with two of the actors serving as a chorus.

Lie worked very closely with Roth, his primary faculty advisor, in developing his distinct style through the entire year-long development and revision process.

“Swedian [Lie]’s project is deeply infused with a performance art sensibility and a directorial perspective,” Roth said. “He is very theoretically aware and understands a lot about cultural theories and the history of Indonesia, which help frame his work in a very experiential framework.”

There should be no doubts about the intensity and difficulty of the thesiswriting process. Both Lie and Cash have had to navigate this complicated and rewarding process in ways that emphasize their strengths and design preferences and embrace the aspects of production with which they had less experience.

lifestyle While both students have extensive experience in almost every aspect of theatrical production, neither student had major experience writing and developing his own performance piece.

“It was really overwhelming at first to think, ‘I have to write a play, a complete play!’ But then, after doing research, it all just kind of came together and worked itself out,” Cash said.

In Cash’s case, playing to her personal strengths meant emphasizing her extensive directorial experience and drawing her inspiration from an established storyline — the story of the creation of Alice in Wonderland. Adapting source material has become somewhat of a specialty for the Georgetown theatre program and professor Goldman, who acted as Cash’s primary faculty advisor. Goldman described Cash’s research process as highly involved in academic research and inquiry.

“She spent most of the summer doing her research and gathering,” Goldman said.

Lie similarly had little writing experience, but he tackled the challenge of creating a work for the stage by approaching the task from a very visual perspective, finding a unique balance between theatricality of performance art and the incredibly personal visual experience of being a viewer. This perspective was fostered through both his

design experience and his second major, studio art.

“As an art major as well, I wanted to try to combine elements of fine and performance art because that has never really been done at Georgetown,” Lie said.

“I wanted to find out how to tell these stories about identity through performance art mixed with monologues and dance to see how far we can push the boundaries of theater.”

Though much of Cash and Lie’s work has been created on an individual basis, the entire Georgetown theatre community has been involved in bringing these projects to fruition. Fellow theatre students help with design and construction and costumes, while professors and faculty manage production teams and oversee the show’s development “Community is really important when you are creating theater work,” Roth said. “There is no one who does solo work that does it alone; there is a lot of support and mentoring and joy.”

These thesis performances represent the best of the best of Georgetown’s blossoming theater program.

“Georgetown is one of the few schools that can offer theatre as a form for doing good,” said Cash, as one of few students who applied to Georgetown knowing she wanted to pursue a theater major.

Lie, Roth and Goldman also echoed this statement. Roth added that she believes

ALEXANDER BROWN/THE HOYA

INSPIRING ALICE “Golden Shard” explores the unique relationship between Lewis Carroll and the young girl who inspired Alice in Wonderland. what makes the theater department at Georgetown unique and successful is the program’s deep ties to Georgetown’s interdisciplinary tradition.

“Every aspect of these products is deeply interdisciplinary, rooted in liberal arts culture and the interaction between critical and creative inquiry,” Roth said.

“These shows are the epitome of what is possible for theater students at Georgetown,” Goldman added.

For all of their work, collaboration

and challenges above all, these two student works are a testament to the power that the Georgetown theater program and community has to create both amazing products and student leaders.

“I think it’s about student empowerment and leadership,” Lie said, “There has always been this energy among student theater groups. If you are willing to work hard, there won’t really be anybody stopping you.”

culture shock

Eastern Market: The District’s Melting Pot

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aybe I’m just a slave to consumerism, but I think that one of the best ways to get to know any place is by flexing your wallet. One of my favorite spots to go in Washington D.C. is Eastern Market, located just off its eponymous metro stop on the blue and orange lines. The interior is the longest continually operated fresh food market (since 1873!), and it is open every day but Monday, while an arts-and-crafts market takes over the streets out front on the weekends — a fantastic (but costly) combination, if you ask me.

I first made the quick trip to the Capitol Hill establishment with a friend one weekend last summer when I was on campus finishing up my dreaded final economics requirement. The 98-degree heat rising off of the D.C. pavement (seriously, summer here is the worst) had left us feeling a little drained, so we were relieved to find fresh, hand-squeezed lemonade for sale as soon as we walked in the door.

But we didn’t stop there: Before we braved the outdoor market, we pol-

ished off two sandwiches, several side note, the outdoor market also provides an unparalleled spot for free samples and a pretzel.

The food sold at the thriving farm- people-watching in the District — if ers’ market is mostly local — coming you’re into that kind of thing.

Needless to say, I found myself refrom places in Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. But turning on my own throughout the that doesn’t mean there’s not rich summer despite the heat, bringing variety: You can probably find any home that scarf I just had to have or type of fruit, vegetable, cheese or fresh fruit for an after-work snack.

One of the great things meat you have in mind, about Eastern Market is and it will inevitably be that there is something delicious. The prepared there for everyone to enfoods range from classic joy — from pies and cakes American sandwiches to to antique records and the more “international,” which include everything AudreyWilson AudreyWilson other vintage collectables.

I think what’s most apfrom creative takes on pealing about a place like Eastern hummus to traditional Indian food.

The arts-and-crafts market boasts Market is that it brings things and vendors of just about anything from sounds and people from all over all over, but some of the most inter- the city. It’s a lot of what’s vibrant esting buys draw inspiration from and interesting about D.C. on disD.C. itself. Colorful canvases depict play. Bringing together the cuisines scenes that span across neighbor- of different peoples and the arts of hoods and decades. Copies of old past and current generations, Eastcity maps hang out for sale. Images ern Market represents the metaof street signs are repurposed into phorical melting pot of Washingartsy posters and postcards. Edgy ton, D.C. In fact, making the trip yet elegant jewelry sparkles from to this marketplace may be more display cases and mannequins. As a interesting than travelling to one

of D.C.’s many museums because it actually brings our city’s multifaceted culture to life.

And one of the best things about living here — something I all too often take for granted — is the realization that D.C. is our city and we play a part in its culture. Sometimes, this may be the creation of our very own Wednesday farmers’ market on campus (another one of my favorites!). Other times, it may simply be enjoying a pretzel in a different neighborhood on a blissful afternoon.

It may be cold now, but as spring blooms (hopefully sooner rather than later), I’ll be headed down the blue line to one of my favorite finds.

Our on-campus farmers’ market during the fall and spring is wonderful, but Eastern Market is definitely worth a monthly — or weekly, if you so desire — weekend trip and a few bucks.

Audrey Wilson is a junior in the School of Foreign Service. CULTURE SHOCK appears every other Friday in the guide.

2.8.13 | the guide | 5

Under Control

bethany imondi Hoya Staff Writer

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oughly 190 million Americans are either overweight or obese, prompt-

ing health professionals to declare a crisis that demands a re-examination of the nation’s relationship with food. But that is only one side of the story.

According to the Renfrew Center Foundation for Eating Disorders, nearly 24 million people in the United States suffer from unhealthy eating habits at the other extreme.

“In the last year, I have lost a best friend, several friends and quite a few other acquaintances that I knew from treatment facilities. All have died from eating disorder complications,” said Cristina Richardson (COL ’16), who herself struggled with an eating disorder in elementary and high school.

“I also have at least 3 friends that I expect to lose soon because their bodies have shut down completely and are on the brink of death. I don’t think that people always believe the statistics about eating disorder deaths, but they are real and eating disorders do kill.”

Patterns of disordered eating coincide with the college years primarily

for women — up to 18 percent of women compared to 0.4 percent of men reported history of an eating disorder by the first year of college, according to a study by the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. These frequencies only increase as students continue through college.

In the National College Health Assessment from spring 2012, 86.6 percent of college students reported feeling overwhelmed in the 12 months prior to taking the survey. For some students, eating disorders develop as a consequence of attempting to use control over eating as a means of coping with the anxiety and competition

around them. subject, agreed with Day’s statement.

With these contextual patterns in “When I came to Georgetown I mind, it comes as little surprise that wasn’t too worried about anything up to 20 percent of Georgetown’s stu- triggering me, as I felt I was in a really dent body suffers from an eating dis- good place mentally,” said Amy, who order. is recovering from an eating disorder.

“Eating disorders are not just about “However, there are lots of things that food and weight. They are also about if I weren’t secure in my health would control and perfection. I equated star- be troubling.” vation and bones with control and For Caroline Joyce (NHS ’15), the perfection. … With every bite of food, combination of a past experience with I felt like I was losing control and fur- an eating disorder and fear of the ther away from perfection,” said Rich- “freshman 15” fostered a negative reardson. “Also, part of eating disorders lationship with food her first year on is competition. … I was always compet- campus. ing with myself to go lower, and when“The [types] of people [who] come in ever the scale are already stayed the susceptible same or rose, to it,” says the pain was Joyce.

“Evtoo much.” eryone’s atResults titude here from the about it just most recent fosters that.”

NCHA indiJoyce’s excated that periences 1.5 percent of with an eatthe Georgeing disorder town student began as a population — Cristina Richardson (COL ‘16) freshman in reported exhigh school. periencing “I saw that anorexia and 2.1 percent bulimia in my sister had written down everything the last 12 months. According to Carol she had eaten in a notebook. As soon Day, a registered nurse and director as I saw my sister’s notebook, it was of Health Education Services, the real game over.” numbers today are closer to around After having struggled in high 6 to 6.5 percent, but not even these school, transitioning to Georgetown numbers account for the sizable stu- for Joyce prompted the continuation dent population struggling with other of a poor mentality toward eating. In types of eating disorders. addition to obsessing over food con“My professional guesstimate is sumption, those with eating disorders about 15 to 20 percent, which is prob- often supplement their attempts to be ably conservative,” Day said. thin through other unhealthy behavFor those previously suffering with iors, including restricting food intake eating disorders, coming to George- until a certain time in the day and entown can stall their recovery if exter- gaging in excessive exercise. nal pressures on campus trigger a reRichardson even resorted to overturn to unhealthy behavior. the-counter “solutions.”

“Georgetown influences people “I would purge to get rid of the food [who] are trying to recover in a nega- and get rid of some of the feelings of tive way,” Day said. hatred [from binge eating]. … purging, A female student, who will be re- even to the sight of blood, made things ferred to as Amy for the sake of ano- a little better. In addition to thrownymity because of the sensitivity of the ing up, I abused a number of over

“Eating disorders are not just about food and weight. They are also about control and perfection.”

the counter medications to aid in the purging process. I had a turning point one night when I almost suffered a heart attack and stroke from the severe electrolyte imbalance I had from a massive laxative overdose and ipecac abuse. However, like most people with eating disorders, this wasn’t enough to stop me. The fear and hatred of eating was too much. It was so bad that suicide often seemed like a better solution than to continue trapped in the cycle of bulimia.”

Today, diagnosing eating disorders usu— Haley ally involves the American P s yc h i a t r i c Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The DSM explicitly defines anorexia nervosa and bulimia. For those who do not fit the criteria for anorexia or bulimia, the classification is simply “eating disorder not otherwise specified.”

The disorder is particularly difficult to diagnose because it becomes so much a part of who the sufferer is.

“I got so used to lying to avoid food that it became a small price to pay for avoiding the horrors of eating.

This might be hard for someone who doesn’t have an eating disorder to imagine. It was my worst fear, and the fear was so intense that I wanted to die instead of face it. ... If I looked into the mirror after fasting for a day, and then I ate something and looked at myself again, I literally looked in my mind like I had gained 50 lbs.”

Yet even with the upcoming revisions to the diagnosing criteria, the emphasis remains on eating. For many with this condition, eating disorders are connected with behavior. Just as one might attempt to control one’s weight through food, exercise becomes a method of control. At Georgetown, this is sometimes apparent at Yates Field House.

“There is definitely an emphasis on being thin and attractive, and a lot of it is cloaked in the name of being healthy, which is exemplified with behaviors at Yates,” said Amy, the anonymous student.

According to Haley Coghill (COL ’11), assistant fitness director at Yates, common behaviors among Georgetown females at the gym include working out with anorexia or exercise bulimia, which involves bingeing and then working out to the point of throwing up. Whereas females might spend hours at the gym to lose weight, males exhibit similar behaviors in attempts to gain muscle. Often, inadequate nutrition and energy accompany these overextending gym efforts.

At Yates, the staff does not receive formal training about how to recognize the warning signs for students who might be struggling with unhealthy behaviors, according to Coghill. However, there are strategies in place for addressing concerns. Every hour, a manager on duty conducts a usage report by observing the fitness floor.

If the manager notices someone who has been working out for an extended period of time in one day or several days in one week, or attending multiple fitness classes Coghill (COL ’11) in a day, the staff can flag GOCards to keep track of that person’s visits.

If monitoring raises more red flags, a staff member will speak with the student and refer him or her to Health Education Services. Depending on the severity of the situation, a student may be banned from Yates until a doctor provides a written letter stating an improvement to the student’s health.

In addition, Coghill and Meghan Dimsa, Yates director of Fitness and Wellness, led a training session for resident assistants in the fall about what to do when they suspect someone might be struggling with an eating disorder. A major difficulty for students is identifying when a situation is serious enough to warrant concerns without jumping to conclusions.

“You can’t just assume. You can’t know what is going on in someone else’s body,” Coghill said.

Georgetown students have two main resources for helping combat unhealthy body image and its asso-

“You can’t just assume.

You can’t know what is going on in someone else’s body”

ALL PHOTOS MICHELLE XU/THE HOYA

important, Day acknowledged the unfortunate reality that the university would not have the capacity to meet all students’ needs if there was a sudden increase in demand.

Because peers are often the ones having conversations with and observing each other on a regular basis, having students address concerns about those they suspect are struggling could encourage others needing help to seek it. Of the approximate 1,000 ap-

“This is a problem that is incredibly more prevalent than we acknowledge, and it’s frustrating to watch.”

— Sarah Baran (COL’ 14) ciated behavior. Health Education Services provides guidance about nutrition and weight management, whereas Georgetown Counseling and Psychiatric Service offers individual psychiatric counseling. However, these resources are restricted in their ability to help students because of limited staff and funding. For example, for nutrition guidance, students previously had access to a dietician at O’Donovan Hall, but that position is currently vacant.

Although increasing awareness and encouraging students to seek help is

pointments Health Education Services sees every year, Day says about 300 of them involve students who have concerns about a peer’s eating or workout habits.

“This is a problem that is incredibly more prevalent than we acknowledge, and it’s frustrating to watch as such an important and consuming mentality eats at so many beautiful people,” Sarah Baran (COL ’14), a student who has friends struggling with eating disorders, said.

Unfortunately, the lines can be blurry. Even for those who do recog-

nize the warning signs, it can be difficult to know how to tell someone that he or she needs help. Changing the way people talk about eating disorders could go a long way in lessening the negative stigma associated with them.

Although it can be difficult to initiate, Joyce believes that the willingness to have these conversations with one another is critical to eventually changing the dialogue.

Understanding the disorder itself and working towards recovery is possible, Richardson reiterates.

“It took many years, many hospitals, many near-death situations and a lot of pain, but there is another side and recovery is possible. … One of the misconceptions about recovery is that it happens as soon as you can eat and that you are forever cured.”

As with any mental illness, eating disorders are a manifestation of underlying issues. Recovery is a process that depends on this aspect of understanding.

Now healthy, Richardson reflects on her recovery process.

“I really had to figure out why I couldn’t be happy unless I was starving and why I binged [and] purged. …

Like many diseases, eating disorders are usually a life-long battle. However, the battle is worth it. Three years ago, I wanted nothing more than to die.

Now, I am happy and healthy, and I love life.”

food&drink Elegant Dishes Bring Culinary Escape

Jerrod Macfarlane Special to The Hoya

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or a reviewer, a bad meal is often preferable to a good one. Rarely, if ever, is this through any fault of a meal itself. It is easy enough to make quick work of a dismal or mediocre restaurant, a trite snipe at the service or jab at meteoric sodium levels and, soon enough, an honest — if perhaps harsh — assessment has been made. However, while visiting Ris this past weekend where I shared not a good, but a great, meal with my friend, I was confronted by the inability to sharply critique any aspect of the dining experience. From the knowledgeable and courteous staff to the delectable, although moderately expensive, cuisine, Ris proved it was anything but a playground for food critics. Rather, it is a place where food connoisseurs — and college students — in pursuit of a luxurious meal can convene and indulge.

Ris, a restaurant that combines classic French cuisine with modern American touches, is tucked just off Washington Circle on K Street. When we arrived, my friend and I had just escaped yet another smattering of snow, which only added to our delight at finding a refuge from the

2275 L St. NW cuisine: French, American price: $$$$ wintery weather beyond the restaurant’s double glass doors. The staff, warm and polite in equal measure, took our jackets and then quickly whisked us to the back in a secluded corner of the restaurant. Our table, situated in a room burnished by wood on all sides, was one of two occupied at the outset. With each successive course, however, the room seemed to fill until by meal’s end not a place remained, demonstrating Ris’ local popularity and the need for a reservation if you plan on making it your dinner destination. Despite the gradual filling, neither the music nor the level of conversation of the room proved excessive. Quite the opposite: The soft noise positively contributed to the aura of subdued warmth and acted as a buffer to thoughts of the harsh, bitter cold that lay just outside.

After giving us a moment to look over the menu, our server returned, smile and charm in tow, to tempt us with a list of mouth-watering specials. Coupled with a seemingly endless regular menu — tantalizing in its own right — this made the process of meal selection nearly impossible. But at our waitress’s suggestion, we ordered a cheese and cured meat platter,

JERROD MACFARLANE FOR THE HOYA

FANCY FRENCH FLAVOR In addition to entrees like this mustard-crusted Atlantic salmon, which is on its regular menu, Ris offers delectable daily specials. giving ourselves time to work out the rest of our yet-to-be-materialized meal choices.

Fortified by an incredible spread of Swiss cheese, blue cheese and American cheddar paired with honey, walnuts, sweet potato puree and perfectly cured wild boar salami, we slowly worked up a plan for appetizers and entrees and then unloaded them on our waitress with anticipation for the remaining courses.

In quick succession came an endive, walnut and blue cheese salad followed by a pair of beautifully baguette-topped French onion soups and, finally, a honeyglazed breast of duck and a mustard-crusted Atlantic salmon. Not only was the staff friendly, but they were also incredibly conscientious of the diners; there seemed to be no time lapse between the completion

happyhour

of one course and the arrival of another.

As I savored the last slice of duck — cooked to a perfect medium-well and steeped in a rich blend of honey and spices — I looked to my watch and saw that over an hour had gone by. As I sat, taking in the meal that had just passed, I could still taste each bite in my mind and appreciate, for a moment more, being lost in the experience.

Removed from the Ris experience by a day or two, I can no longer taste sweet port wine vinaigrette or a sharp gruyere crust on my tongue, but I still recall the feeling of being lost. It is that feeling of being engulfed in my meal and distant from all other concerns that lingers with me and has made it possible to remember a great meal and a great restaurant.

a weekly roundup of some of the best shots, mixes and punches.

Classic Old-Fashioned

Frozen Mudslide

allrecipes.com

allrecipes.com

Pour 2 tsp. simple syrup, 1 tsp. water and 2 dashes bitters into a whiskey glass. Stir, then place 1 cup ice cubes into the glass.

Pour 1 1/2 fl oz. bourbon whiskey over the ice, and garnish with 1 orange slice and a maraschino cherry. Serve in a scotch glass for maximum enjoyment.

Using a blender, combine 4 cups crushed ice, 1 1/2 fl oz. vodka, 1 1/2 fl oz. coffee-flavored liqueur and 1 1/2 fl oz. Irish cream liqueur.

Drizzle on 2 tbsp. chocolate syrup, and blend until smooth. Pour the contents into glasses and then garnish with 1/2 cup whipped cream.

8 | the guide | 2.8.13

food&drink

Local Favorite Puts The Bread Paradox Savory Spin on Brunch R W  DC on rye

ENG GIN MOE Special to The Hoya

hen I lived in New York, whenever I was in the mood for something delicious, I would make the trek from Queens to Manhattan so that I could have the chance to sample the cuisines of a myriad number of distinct countries. However, some of my favorite restaurants were actually the ones in my local neighborhood.

Since I’ve started to call Georgetown home, I decided to take a stroll in my new backyard to look for a place that not only had delicious food but also wasn’t too far removed from the front gates. Luckily for me, I stumbled upon an old favorite at a particularly auspicious time.

Located on M Street, J. Paul’s is a Georgetown tradition. Primarily known for its dinner and happy hour due to its large oyster and seafood selection, it has an established clientele. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered that J. Paul’s renowned menu extended to brunch as well.

My friends and I planned to have a nice Sunday brunch, but our plans were almost ruined when the first restaurant reservation elsewhere fell through. Fortunately, J. Paul’s was very accommodating and able to find a place for our thirteen-person party.

J. Paul’s brands itself as a dining saloon, which is a fitting description as evident in the dark-finished wood and soft yellow lights. The seating area consists of a traditional bar with its bar-stool seating as well as many high tables and chairs. There are also dark leather booths with granite tabletops. One of the most striking features of this restaurant is its beautiful skylight; the natural light filtering in provides a stark contrast to the rest of the restaurant’s dim interior.

To start, we were served a complementary basket of mini corn muffins made with actual bits of corn tossed into the batter.

The slight saltiness of the butter provided a

ENG GIN MOE FOR THE HOYA

A GEORGETOWN STAPLE J. Paul’s is home to hearty meals any time of day.

J. PAUL’S 3218 M St. NW cuisine: American, Brunch price: $$$$ good contrast to the slight kick of the muffin’s spice. I had to get the basket moved to the other side of the table for fear of finishing it as my entire meal.

Although J. Paul’s offers its regular menu during brunch hours, it also has a special brunch menu full of sweet and savory delights. I pondered over ordering their eggs benedict, smoked salmon omelet or their Belgian waffle before settling on a brunch classic: scrambled eggs. The J.P. Scramble consists of four eggs scrambled with hickory-smoked bacon, generous cuts of roasted red-skin potatoes and cheddar cheese served with a side of fruit and a buttermilk biscuit. If this sounds like too heavy of a combination, the dishes can be modified. In fact, I took my J.P Scramble with egg whites and no cheddar cheese. I rounded off the meal by ordering some of their strong aromatic coffee, which I could not stop asking for refills of.

The presentation of the meal was elegantly simple, with the scrambled eggs on top of a royal blue napkin that rested on a large white plate. The ratio of bacon and potatoes to eggs was a little bit on the uneven side, and my one criticism was that there could have been more of the former to balance out the blandness of the eggs. Instead of an English muffin accompanying my scrambled eggs, I was disappointed to only receive two pieces of white toast. Nevertheless, the fresh tartness of the pineapple and melon provided some comfort. I also had a bite of my friend’s Belgian waffle; the sumptuous uniqueness of the bourbon caramel and maple syrup won me over despite the somewhat starchiness of the waffle itself.

The prices are a bit on the higher scale for breakfast — the J.P Scramble was $10.95 and was one of the cheaper options on the menu. At the same time, though, the portions were more than enough to fill me and my friends up. J. Paul’s has long been considered a staple of the Georgetown area, and now their brunch menu provides an extra incentive to visit their establishment.

ecently, there came a trou- the peanut butter acts as a caulk bling point in my relation- against the destructive moisture ship with sandwiches when in the jelly, keeping everything I began to wonder exactly what perfect and, most importantly, alcounts as a sandwich. Seeking lowing the bread to maintain its clarity, I looked up definitions of consistency. If you want to see a the sandwich in the Oxford Eng- stronger juxtaposition, make the lish Dictionary, Urban Diction- sandwiches in the morning and ary and The New York Times and pack them away for lunch later. received a range of answers from This caulking qualities of peanut the sarcastic question, “What butter are effective, but there are isn’t a sandwich?” to an 18th cen- some sandwiches where peanut tury story about the drunken Earl butter is entirely inappropriate of Sandwich, who was too inebri- (a Reuben, for instance). Some ated to make a proper meal and people try to toast the bread or instead ate slices of meat between replace the bread with pita, but these are imperfect solutions. two slices of bread.

I remain hopeful, but my reWhile the internet was thoroughly disappointing, I consis- search shows that there is not yet tently read that a sandwich has to a universal solution to this bread have an ingredient that holds ev- crisis despite sandwich-makers around the world erything together — who are working tirea boundary between lessly to solve this serithe fillings and the ous problem. We can open air. all help this cause by Usually, some form being especially creof bread serves as this boundary; however, DavidChardack ative with the way we prepare our bread. bread is a dangerous Epicurean and Co. proposes an medium for sandwich-makers to use. In my experience, bread can interesting tactic to combat the begin to deteriorate even just 30 ubiquity of soggy bread. In the minutes after a sandwich has case of the Ryan Hall sandwich, been assembled. As the succulent Epi sandwich-makers use sourjuices from the main ingredients dough for more than just holding leak onto the surface of the bread, the inside of the sandwich togeththe crumb becomes wet and the er. The thick slices of this bread bread loses its elastic and gluti- are delightful on their own, but nous structure. In other words, in the Ryan Hall, they have been the bread quickly turns into a sog- dipped in egg and grilled alonggy mess, that falls apart and, ulti- side the other ingredients: ham, mately, fails in its duty of holding turkey, cheese and a smothering of Russian dressing. Ordinarily, a sandwich together.

If you have time and don’t be- any sandwich with such an aslieve me, try this demonstration semblage of ingredients is a gooto see firsthand what I’m talking ey catastrophe, but here, the egg about. You will need the classic pb cooks deep into the pockets and and j ingredients, of course: four crevices of the bread, protecting slices of white or wheat sandwich the eater from rogue drops of Rusbread, peanut butter and jelly. sian dressing and melted cheese.

Now, make a PB & J sandwich by This is not to mention the simple spreading peanut butter on a slice taste of the egg, which subtly of bread, jelly on another, and works to counteract the sharp flaputting the two slices together. vors of the sourdough bread.

Since I began eating sandwichThen, make another PB & J, this time including a thin layer of pea- es again, nothing has disappointnut butter on both slices of bread ed me like receiving a sandwich with soggy bread. But as long as before adding any jelly.

The first sandwich will be cata- Epicurean still offers the Ryan strophic. The bread will be satu- Hall, I rest easy knowing there rated with jelly, and the contents is at least one delicious respite of your sandwich will ooze out among all the soggy buns. everywhere, making your hands sticky and probably ruining your David Chardack is a freshman in clothes and your mood. Now, the College. DC ON RYE appears eat the second sandwich. Here, every other Friday in the guide.

2.8.13 | the guide | 9

arts&entertainment

Online Show Captures Political Drama

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etflix has done it again. First, it contributed to Blockbuster’s bankruptcy with on-demand DVDs and online streaming. Now, Netflix is gunning for network and cable television with its first original series, “House of Cards.” The online structure frees Netflix from the formatting and content constraints of regular television. This should worry channels like NBC and HBO, whose DVD sales are already abysmal thanks to streaming sites like Netflix.

This freedom has allowed Netflix to create a rich, addictive show with an A-list cast.

Kevin Spacey stars as Frank Underwood, a member of the House of Representatives out for revenge after he gets passed over for secretary of state. Robin Wright is consummate politician’s wife Claire Underwood: a cold, calculating Lady Macbeth. She is the perfect complement to Frank’s cunning, chess-like strategy to get back on his lack of promotion. Kate Mara is Zoe Barnes, a typical overeager (and somewhat annoying) rookie reporter.

Critically acclaimed director David Fincher helms the first two episodes, and his stark cinematography adds quiet grav-

ity to every shady deal and glamorous gala.

Frank’s startling asides are equally compelling. The series premiere opens with Underwood directly addressing the audience as he twists the neck of a canine hit-andrun victim. He continues to do so throughout the show, usually with an eye roll and a snide comment about the person he’s trying to schmooze. The most powerful of these moments comes when Underwood delivers a eulogy at the funeral of a teenager from his South Carolina district. He reHOUSE OF counts the profound experience of his father’s death, turns to the camera and, in the same breath, remarks that his father did nothing but take up space.

Instances like these are the genius of “House of Cards.” Viewers become complicit in Underwood’s underhanded dealings and invested in his plans as we gain further access to his thoughts. This tactic is borrowed from the identically titled

BBC miniseries that aired in the nineties, which was adapted from a novel by Michael Dobbs, who is currently an executive producer.

Writer Beau Willimon, who gained prior experience writing the political thriller The Ides of March, updates the show to reflect the current political climate. Claire Underwood runs the Clean Water Initiative, a charity that she wants to expand on an international scale. As ruthless as her husband, Claire fires half of her staff CARDS in order to hire one person with access to resources she desperately wants.

“House of Cards” certainly has credentials, but it remains to be seen whether audiences will actually buy into this new television format. Viewers may not be willing to purchase Netflix subscriptions simply for its own original series, but this show is definitely worth watching for current subscribers. Netflix caters to fans of

RIANNA FOLDS Hoya Staff Writer

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BLOGS.INDIEWIRE.COM

POLITICAL PLAYERS The show follows power-hungry Washington politicians.

binge watching by placing all thirteen season one episodes online at the same time.

This could be the beginning of a new era of television, and “House of Cards” is an ambitious start. (Hulu’s original series don’t count. Let’s be real. No one watches those.)

life plugged in

Finding Solace in Melancholy Tunes

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here are periods where I listen to melancholy music exclusively. For these occasions, I have a few go-to bands, but Rogue Wave definitely tends to make it into my rotation more than most others. Their music has more of an ominous tone; it can be a little unsettling while also very contemplative. But the depth that they reach is something that’s rare among music today and something that continues to draw me to them time and time again.

Rogue Wave is the brainchild of musician and vocalist Zach Rogue, who single-handedly wrote and recorded their first album, Out of the Shadow, in 2002. The composition of the band has changed over the years, with drummer Pat Spurgeon, who joined right before the tour for the band’s debut album, as the only other consistent member of the band. Their style is a mellow and poetic alternative rock with lots of folk influences. Over their 10-year and four-album career, their style has evolved from an incredibly under-produced, raw indie-rock sound to a more electronic, pop-rock exercise in innovation.

10 | the guide | 2.8.13

OUT OF THE SHADOW The band’s first album sounds completely unprocessed and incredibly pure. Up-tempo and decidedly folksy, their debut effort captures Rogue’s ability to portray unexpected emotions. Some standout tracks include “Nourishment Nation,” a song that fits perfectly with the album’s style.

“Kicking the Heart Out” shows Rogue’s talent in conveying an acute sense of unease and unnerve without scaring away his listeners.

of all time. Both are somber but have an incredible power to them that help distinguish the band. While retaining the dark and grimmer edge of the album, they’re not depressing.

Instead, they’re both uplifting in a strange, unique way.

“Publish My Love” is another standout, full of harder and edgier rock guitars with echoing vocals and powerful drums.

ASLEEP AT HEAVEN’S GATES You may have heard “Lake Michigan,” the lead single from this 2007 alDESCENDED LIKE VULTURES bum, in those Zune comRogue Wave’s style didn’t change substantially with ZachGordon mercials about six years ago. A great, percussive their second album, but Spurgeon’s additions to the creative track, it shows the band’s departure process are easily noticed. A little from melancholia to a more joyful darker than its predecessor, the vo- sound. This isn’t the case for every cals and messages of the 2005 al- song on this album, though.

“Chicago x 12” is one of the best bum are slightly less convoluted. Although it’s still full of strange lyrics, songs from this album, and it still its dark tone is much less uncomfort- has hints of the melancholy folk feaing and instead comes across as mu- tured in earlier Rogue Wave songs.

However, it is still more upbeat than sic born from depression.

“Love’s Lost Guarantee” and “Cali- most of their earlier work, showing fornia” are two of my favorite songs the direction the band was heading.

PERMALIGHT Their most recent release was a huge step musically for the band.

On 2010’s Permalight, Rogue Wave embraces pop, and their music gets a lot more fun because of it. “Good Morning (The Future)” is an exciting, futuristic pop song that seamlessly blends computer-generated beats and sounds with electric guitar and rock drums. The bulk of this album’s sound continues this trend, but there are a few songs that show how this band still retains their folksy roots.

“I’ll Never Leave You” is a great example of this; it’s tender and soft while preserving their organic sound. It’s also one of their most straightforward songs, with its lyrics making it obvious that it’s all about love. Permalight is the perfect blend of pop rock, electro-pop and folk music, and it epitomizes just how much this band has grown over the years.

It’s the perfect cap on this musical retrospective.

Zach Gordon is a sophomore in the College. LIFE PLUGGED IN appears every other Friday in the guide.

arts&entertainment

Groban Blends Genres KELLY LUI Special to The Hoya

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roduced by Rob Cavallo, who first made a name for himself in music by producing for Green Day, All That Echoes is Josh Groban’s sixth album, and is sure to delight fans. The collaboration of the pop-classical singer/ songwriter and the pop-rock producer results in an album that not only features the typical traits of Groban’s work — powerful vocals and woeful, beautiful melodies — but also more rock-heavy, folksy elements. And it works.

I have been a fan of Groban since I first listened to his 2008 album, Awake Live. I was blown away by his amazing vocals, and the songs “So She Dances” KOVIDEO.NET and “In Her Eyes” remain some of my GROBAN GOES ROCK The pop singer favorite tracks from Groban. Over the successfully plays with many sounds. course of his career, his music has matured considerably. The mood of his selections. “E Ti Prometterò,” which feasongs in All That Echoes is somewhat tures Italian pop singer Laura Pausini, darker, but the new album still man- is one of the most brilliant vocal works ages to deliver a special thrill which dis- in the whole album, as the song allows tinguishes it from the work of Groban’s Groban to perform in his most comfortcontemporaries. able zone and shows off his classically Moreover, All That Echoes is Groban’s trained, operatic voice. greatest songwriting effort thus far. He There are a few let downs on the co-wrote seven out of the 12 tracks on album, however. Groban’s cover of the album, lending it a more personal “Falling Slowly,” featured in the movie and intimate sound. The first track of Once, and one of my favorite songs, the album, “Brave,” epitomizes this produces a somewhat disappointing shift. Released as a single in December result. The orchestral arrangement in 2012, “Brave” peaked at number 22 on Groban’s version is too complex, and it the U.S. Billboard detracts from the chart. It begins profound simplicwith soft orchesity of the original. tration and GroIn fact, the musiban’s gently whiscal arrangement pering, “Wake and sound balancup, wake up,” but ing are sometimes JOSH GROBAN quickly builds to problematic on All That Echoes a climatic chorus, the album and where Groban’s render it less effecpowerful vocals tive than it could are supported by a rhythmic military have been. For example, the orchestral drumbeat. The piece showcases the or- accompaniments in “Brave” sometimes ganic transformation brought about by seem to drown out Groban’s voice. the Groban-Cavallo collaboration. Not Moreover, the transition in “The Moon only does the song contain Groban’s is a Harsh Mistress,” a subtle and tender traditional vocal work and uplifting lyr- piece, is strangely abrupt and almost ics, it also carries a “rockier” edge that is discordant, which is a pity for an othersure to appeal to a wider audience. wise beautiful song.

“False Alarm,” the second track of the Despite its flaws, however, All That album, features an orchestral arrange- Echoes is a great work that once again ment and Groban at the top of his vo- demonstrates the powerhouse talents cal range — a combination that creates of Groban and affirms his consistent, a haunting, eerie mood reminiscent of successful efforts. While not ground music from alternative bands like Cold- breakingly different from his previous play, OneRepublic and the xx. works, the album does show subtle Apart from these new attempts, All and successful shifts toward a more That Echoes also retains some of Gro- popular style. Both new and seasoned ban’s typical perks. Three Italian songs fans should look forward to witnessare included in the album, keeping ing the continuous evolution of GroGroban’s tradition of foreign language ban’s music.

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Thriller Showcases Soderbergh’s Skills SAMI RAHMAN Special to The Hoya

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racing movie credits for the third bottles and pharmaceutical labels — not time, the dynamic duo of Acad- only adding to the suspenseful nature of emy Award-winning director Ste- the Emily’s condition but also communiven Soderbergh and screenwriter Scott Z. cating the important message of the cauBurns shows how it can masterfully fool tion of our continuing reliance on pharmaand baffle audiences with their match- ceuticals and belief that pills are a cure-all lessly crafted, puzzle-box story in the grip- solution. ping psychological thriller Side Effects.

The ensemble includes a star-studded Side Effects dives right into suspense with cast, many of whom are Soderbergh-expean opening scene playing oddly riveting xy- rienced actors whose investment into their lophone music, its piercing sounds giving character’s raw emotions truly show the the audience chills and goosebumps. The actors’ artistic vitalities and uniqueness. story revolves around a withdrawn young Despite the occasional situational humor, married woman, Emily Taylor (Rooney the only other comic relief of the film was Mara), who suffers watching Tatum from an anxiety trying to playing disorder. She is exhis part. His acting pecting the return fails to compare of her recently imto Zeta-Jones, Law SIDE EFFECTS prisoned husband, and the refined Martin (Channing flawlessness of starring: Rooney Mara, Channing Tatum). The two Mara’s poignant Tatum, Jude Law attempt to rekindle and authentic pertheir romance but formance.

Once find both social and sexual difficulties as again, she dazzles us like she did in her they adjust to married life after Martin’s Oscar-nominated role in The Girl with a four-year absence and public defamation.

Dragon Tattoo and disturbs us with her Although her husband is back in her life, composed facial expressions and bluntly Emily continues to suffer from mental ill- clipped dialogue. Despite its theatricalities, ness, with suicidal thoughts leading her to Side Effects touches on the larger concept regularly visit her psychiatrist, Jonathan of the dangers our fractured U.S. healthBanks (Jude Law), who consults with her care system poses and our dependence on former psychiatrist, Victoria Siebert (Cathe- materialism. Whether it be the resoundrine Zeta-Jones), and treats her with several ing messages of a general lack of patient prescription anti-depressants that include knowledge, the adverse effects of pharmathe common side effects of fatigue, mood ceutics or the skyrocketing malpractice litswings and decreased libido. igation, Soderbergh’s Side Effects will have However, the story takes a nosedive you guessing and re-guessing the possible into dangerous waters when Emily is pre- theories behind the events of this frightenscribed a new drug for her depression. Af- ingly realistic, mind-bending thriller. ter only a couple of days, Emily suffers from severe sleepwalking that causes her to commit murder, prompting an investigation and a criminal trial. The remaining story contains Banks’ insistent inquiry of Emily’s condition. Side Effects places a classic murder mystery in the controversial gray areas of unconscious behavior produced by the side effects of Emily’s anti-depressants.

Soderbergh exhibits his natural prowess in shooting multiple convoluted stories with impressively well-timed pacing and a natural flow of enthralling plot twists — a dexterity not extended toward the average Hollywood director. Throughout the film, ENDGAME ENTERTAINMENT Soderbergh shoots many purposely shaky, NEGATIVE EFFECTS Channing Tatum’s quick clips that focus and zoom in on pill stunted acting was the only low point.

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2.8.13 | the guide | 11

bestbets

picnic in a field — kayla noguchi

on campus

Georgetown Improv Association: Improv Fest Friday, 8 p.m. — Bulldog Alley

The Georgetown Improv Association presents Improv Fest, a two-night festival of improvised comedy inspired by audience suggestions and performed by the association as well as visiting collegiate and professional improv troupes from across the country. Groups scheduled to appear are arriving from Yale, Maryland and the Washington Improv Theatre. Tickets are $5 for students and faculty.

wreck-it ralph Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. — ICC Auditorium

The Georgetown Program Board presents Wreck-It Ralph.

Enjoy last fall’s biggest animated film, which features voiceovers from John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman among others. Set in an alternate arcade universe, Ralph follows the exploits of 2-D videogame villains leveling up and transforming into 3-D heroes. Sure to be a Disney classic, the movie is a relaxing way to begin the weekend.

Relay for Life 2013 Kickoff Sunday, 5:00 p.m. — ICC Galleria

Begin the journey to eradicate breast cancer with Relay for Life this Sunday. Join the 75 teams and 500+ participants in enjoying free pizza, games and entertainment. Everyone is encouraged to contribute and sign up with a team. Full teams, with at least eight registered participants, will collect special prizes.

Galentine’s day monday, 7 p.m. — The Women’s Center

Named after a second-season “Parks and Recreation” episode, Galentine’s Day is a day for appreciating and celebrating women. You won’t want to miss grooving to empowering lady jams and munching on free snacks. All students, not just ladies, are welcome to stop by and celebrate Valentine’s Day the Amy Poehler-approved way.

around town saturday

friday

sunday

Don’t miss your last chance to visit “Gothic Resilience,” a photography exhibit exploring the National Cathedral’s architectural elements. Photographer Colin Winterbottom captured the intricacies of the cathedral’s design in an illuminating series of black and white pieces. Through these images, you will gain an appreciation for what Winterbottom calls the “bruised beauty” of the cathedral’s structure.

Cheer on Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals as they face off against the Florida Panthers this Saturday at Verizon Center. While the Capitals may be struggling with a 2-6-1 record at the start of this delayed season, your support will hopefully galvanize them toward victory. Embrace this essential D.C. experience as residents of Washington.

Need a Civil War fix after watching Lincoln? This Sunday at Politics and Prose, author Daniel Stashower will be discussing his new book, The House of Peril: The Secret Plot to Murder Lincoln Before the Civil War. Focusing on the 1861 Baltimore Plot, Stashower analyzes the political conflicts of the pre-Civil War era through the eyes of Kate Warne, the first female detective.

WHERE: Longview Gallery WHEN: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

INFO: nationalcathedral.org PRICE: Free METRO: Mt. Vernon Sq.

WHERE: Verizon Center WHEN: 7 p.m.

INFO: capitals.nhl.com PRICE: $43.99 METRO: Gallery-Place Chinatown

WHERE: 5015 Connecticut Ave NW WHEN: 1:00 p.m.

INFO: politics-prose.com PRICE: Free METRO: Van Ness-UDC

Simon Redko & Jessica Tannenbaum Special to The Hoya

COVER PHOTO BY MICHELLE XU