The Torch
Volume 1, Issue 1 Entertainment Mar 15, 2007
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Students Take at Look at '06 Movies

 By John Henderson
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     As I looked through different reviews and “Top Ten” lists, I found that repeated best movies of 2006 were: “The Departed,” “The Queen,” “Borat,” “Pan’s Labyrinth.” , and “ Know your frier.”
      These are not the best picks of everyone though; Samantha Williams says her favorite movie of 2006 was “Busty Cops,” questionable to some but awesome to others. I thought that one of the best films of the year was “Casino Royale,” to me it was very different from the many other Bond films and I liked the way it was carried out. Most kids in high school don’t think the way that many movie critics do and they don’t think about “Best Screenplay” or “Best Cinematography,” we seem to like what the most talked about is and the one whose previews appeal to us most.
     A very surprising top ten movie of 2006 was “Borat;” it surprised most with his ridiculous trip across America. “It was really funny,” says Scotty Schultz “but it was really disgusting in some parts.” Everyone always has a different outlook on movies and they always have a strong feeling for some part of the show, they are either overwhelmed with the nasty parts and don’t pay attention to anything else, or they can only focus on the funny parts of the movie. What is your type of movie?

Xbox 360 vs. Mac Computer

 By Brooks Williams
posted 9:17 AM CST, May 1, 2007

     Everybody knows that the biggest argument in school boils down to what is better: The Microsoft Xbox 360 or Macintosh computer. So that’s why I’m here, writing this article in this periodical: to get the word out on which one is better.
     The graphics are arguably the least important thing to ever talk about when dealing with technology; but let’s be frank, the Macintosh computer has some sweet graphics to it. You can see shadows cascading behind windows that you open up. The viewer can notice the sheen on the iTunes icon on the computer, and their desktop can even have a pretty woman on it, which everyone knows ups the points for Mac. On the other hand, you have the Xbox 360, and sure, it can produce hundreds of aliens at one time in it’s games, or produce a really awesome looking machine, but can it really stack up to the Macintosh computer in every corner of the graphics department? Turns out, it can, and it wins by a fair margin. Winner: Xbox 360
     Now, let’s compare game play. With the Macintosh computer, you have a mouse to move around, but you can also somehow type words with a word brick that you are supplied as well. They call this the ‘keyboard’. Microphones and even a box that can print things can be plugged in as well, which makes the computing experience ever more exuberating. The Xbox 360 has a controller and some other things such as a headset that can be applied to the console, and the games are sometimes hair-raising (such as the new wig-simulator game that was released last month for it), but overall I think Mac computers have the edge in this round. Besides, the thrill of Gears of War can easily be beaten by the rollercoaster ride that is Garageband. Winner: Macintosh Computers
     Finally, let’s see how they compare the enjoyment one can experience on the two machines. On one hand, users can have a blast on a Mac, messing around with it’s applications, downloading music for you iPod, recording podcasts and such for the web, and going on the internet, where some good clean Websensed fun can be had, but on the other hand, which has 5 fingers, you have a console that has over 500 games and most of them are very average, if not better. You can also go online and fight people in car races and such on the 360, too. I think it’s a tie this round! Winner: Both
     Unfortunately, both machines have won the race in a tie, so the world may never know what is better. Hopefully you can make your own decision after readin

Question of the Month

 By Austin Myers
          
Christen Roberts                Mr. Briggs

     I circled the hallways looking for people to ask question that I was really concerned about what people think about them. I found my two victims of mass questioning and there they were, Mr. Briggs and Christen Roberts. I asked a series of questions and they were asked to answer truthfully as possible.
     The first question I asked was Dog or Cat, Mr. Briggs said “dog” and Christen said, ”I’m afraid of dogs and cats are just gross.”
     The next question I asked was about the opposite sex and I asked if they like long hair or short hair. Briggs replied, “ Long, not butt long but not like Ellen DeGeneres.” Christen Roberts said “short hair.” Blonde or Brunette seemed like an appropriate question after the long hair or short, so I proceeded with that question. Briggs replied, “ Blonde of course, because my girlfriend is a blonde,” Christen replied quickly with brunette.
     I asked my victims if they would rather eat a hamburger or a hot dog at a cookout, Briggs replied with hamburger and Christen the opposite.
     The answer that I was really surprised with was when I asked the question, school or work? To my surprise Briggs and Christen both said work. Briggs said, ”Work because I get to do a lot of stuff with the Bulls.” With Christen she said, “Work, because all I do is eat there.”
     I was trying to figure out what kind of writing utensils my people used and Briggs being the teacher said Pen and Christen went the other way with her reply, “pencil.”.
     Some of the most complicated questions to answer were the next ones coming up. I had to think of some tough questions so I asked the participants, This or That? Mr. Briggs thought about it for a little bit and without a doubt he said, “This” Ms. Roberts thought about it, looked puzzled and then said, “That.”
     To be or not to be, that is the question…..no really, that is the question. Not to my surprise Briggs and Christen both said, “to be.” These are your monthly questions that were definitely in need of being answered and we found two lucky participants to answer and now we’re ready to move on.

Summer Jobs...
Some are Fun too!

 By Cami Prater
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     If you want to work this summer, you might as well find a job where you can have fun. Getting a summer job has many benefits; it is a great way to prepare you for life after high school. Also, the self-esteem and self-confidence you will gain, will help you when you’re ready to interview for a college or a career. What would be the best summer job for teenagers? I went out and asked the students at Olympia High School exactly what they thought.
     Sophomore Derrick Rider said, “Working at the Stanford pool because it’s close to lifting practice, and I like to swim.”
     Sophomore Rian Wilson said, “Zamboni driver because I could keep cool.” Junior Brandon Tackett said, “Lifeguard because you just sit there.” Senior Stephanie Musselman said, “Working on the farm because you get dirty, you get to be outside, and it pays good.”
     Junior Becky Lawson said, “Working at the mall because you get discounts on clothes.”
     Sophomore Jordan Brooks said, “A ninja because they’re amazing.”
     When finding a summer job keep in mind your strengths and weaknesses. Keep in mind that your summer job should be something you should learn from to help for the future.

Plastic Surgery...
Science Projects Gone Bad?

 By John Henderson
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


Pamela Anderson      Carmen Electra      Lindsay Lohan

     Liposuction, rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery and facelifts were the top five most popular procedures in 2004. Over the years we have seen photos of celebrities getting awful plastic surgery. It seems as if you can either look new and improved or like a science project gone bad. Many of the most popular names in plastic surgery are Pamela Anderson, Carmen Electra and Lindsay Lohan. Then there’s the bad side of plastic surgery, like Lonnie Anderson, Tara Reid and Michael Jackson who ended up looking like Casper the unfriendly ghost.
     Many people think that it is a choice that you have to live with for the rest of your life and if you feel like you want to take a chance then it’s your decision.
     “I think it is really gross,” said Alyssa King. “It usually looks really fake and people just keep getting things done more and more just to waste money.”
     Everyone usually has the same reaction when it comes to plastic surgery. I think it is an addiction to people who get it done and they do it more and more to try and make it better but it just gets worse. Like Oprah said, “Looks get you in the door, and personality keeps you in the house.

UFC Fights Up to PPV

 By John Henderson and Nick White
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     The Ultimate Fighting Championship has rules a lot like Kindergarten; there’s no hair pulling, eye-gouging or biting to another opponent.
     Ultimate Fighting in the UFC is defined as a mixed martial arts competition with skilled professionals in jiu-jitsu, judo, karate, boxing, kickboxing and wrestling.
     The talk about UFC right now is the upcoming paper-view on April 7 known as UFC 69: SHOOTOUT
     Scotty Schultz hopes that Matt Serra’s submissions will make “take-down expert” Georges St-Pierre “tap out” and give up the title of welter weight champion.
     In the last UFC fight, “UFC 68: THE UPRISING” retired heavyweight champion Randy Couture came back to take on Heavyweight holder Anderson Silva which ended in a unanimous decision giving Randy Couture back the title.
     And be sure to watch UFC 70: NATIONS COLLIDE, where Cro Cop will take on Gabriel Gonzaga.

Hottest Bands At Oly

 By Louisa Tanner
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

     There are billions of bands out in the music world and everybody likes different bands. Students of Olympia think differently about which band is the hottest. There were some students who think that Racal Flatts, Nickelback and even the Ramones were the hottest, but more students of Olympia thought Fall Out Boy and Journey were the hottest bands.
     Journey is the American rock band that was formed in 1973 in San Francisco, California. They have over 43 million records sold in U.S. alone. They are in their 14th year of there music career. They are still going strong with their millions of fans. They are also on tour this year and, this month going to different countries for their concerts. Last month they were touring in the U.S. Ashley Terrini said, “ Journey is amazing! ”
     Fall Out Boy is a punk rock band from Illinois that was formed in 2001. In just in a couple of years they hit it big.
     They are currently on tour traveling all over the U.S.and in a couple of months they are going to be in Moline, Illinois as well as Chicago in June.
     Ashley Loy said that Fall Out Boy is the best band ever, that there is no other like Fall Out Boy.

U.S Colliseum Showcases
More
Amazing Events

 By Mitchell Birky
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

     Remember back when we were little and we all enjoyed a good episode of Clifford the Big Red Dog? Don’t you just wish you could travel back in time, jump into an episode, and follow Clifford in real life? Well your wish is the US Cellular Coliseum’s command, presenting Clifford the Big Red Dog Live! May 4 and 5 in Bloomington. Tickets vary in price, from 17 to 32 dollars each.
     SomewhatBroadway recognized, Clifford the Big Red Dog Live! is an all-new story from Stuart Snyder of Turnstile Entertainment. “I’m an Emily Elizabeth fan,” says Edward Wittrig. Well your in luck Ed, all your favorite characters from Birdwell Island are back, including Emily Elizabeth, T-Bone, Charlie, and of course, Clifford the big red dog. There have also been many rumors about Clifford meeting some new friends along his long and exciting live action adventure. “I love Clifford because he’s like the dog I never had.” says Andy Lindgren.
     If cherished childhood memories don’t float your boat, then there are plenty of other exciting acts coming soon to the US Cellular Coliseum. The 80’s Invasion Tour is stopping in town March 17. The Professional Bull Riding Tour has their annual show in Bloomington on April 27.
     So if it’s Clifford the Big Red Dog, reliving the songs of great 80’s hair bands, or the classic Bull Man contest, the US Cellular Coliseum has what you’re looking for. So the next time you feel yourself wishing you could relive the glory days of your childhood, hitch a ride into Bloomington for a spectacular live action event.


LOCAL BANDS
“DREAMS OF MUSIC"

 By Jarrid Crowell
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

     This small town band that you can hear from a block away jamming in a basement and trying just to be one day closer to their dream of making music. “One Day Closer”, who everyone heard for the first time last year in April at Friday and Saturday night live, is still coming on strong and hoping to get their bands name out. The bands members Josh Ummel, Isaac Ummel, and Tyler Willey are all great friends, and have always wanted to make music for people to enjoy. They have played at local fall festivals and school concerts, but are planning on some other bigger shows else where to get people to hear them play. When asked how all the members came together Josh Ummel the lead singer and guitarist said, “well all 3 of us have a like for the same style of music so we decided to put our talents together and see what kinda tunes we could make.” So if you are ever in the McLean area or see one of these guys in the hallways stop and talk to them and give them support to keep pushing forward.

Red Hot Chili Peppers
Rock Champaign

 By Jesse Springer
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

photo by Google

     On March 3rd, 2007, Jack Hainline and I departed on an adventure that we would remember for a lifetime. With Jack’s tickets in hand, we road tripped down to Champaign for possibly one of the greatest nights of our collective lives. With the release of “Stadium Arcadium” in 2006, the Chili Peppers have been touring the United States,and some parts of the world. After winning 5 Grammy’s, the Chili Peppers are red hot and touring with other well known bands, such as Gnarls Barkley.
     Jack and I arrived around 7:30, right when the concert was starting and made our way to our seats. When we arrived, Gnarls Barkley was just beginning and there were many times when I would find myself dozing off, or look over and see Jack taking a nap. When our good friend Gnarls finally got the hint no one was there to watch him, the Chili Peppers took the stage, and it was time to rock.
     With a 2-hour set of mind-blowing, pulse pounding music, it was all that we had hoped and dreamed of. Almost all of the hit singles they have ever had wereplayedincluding, “Californication”, “Tell Me Baby”, “Dani California”, “Under the Bridge”, and “Can’t Stop”, just to name a few. “They are a great band and never seem to disappoint me even after being around all these years”, said Ben Trout. “This was the most rockin’ concert of my entire life as we know it…I could only dream of Kelly Clarkson being better”, said Olympia senior Jack Hainline.
     I highly recommend getting tickets to their next show so you, too, can experience the Holy Grail of all rock concerts.

RAP ROCK OR ROLL WITH COUNTRY

 By Abbi Groth
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

photo by Google
     With Punk Rock music becoming more popular, I was wondering if it was overpowering Rap and Country. A poll at Olympia surveyed fifty students on their preference of music.
     Eleven students preferred country music, and Rascal Flatts won the popularity vote. Heidi Fontaine, junior, said her favorite music is country because, “The lyrics are easy to understand, and Keith Urban is a hottie.” Eighteen students chose Rap, and the most popular Rap artist was Ludacris. Sophomore Brandon Whitaker chose Rap because he said “I like my beat down low, just like T.I.” Twenty-one students chose Punk Rock and Fall Out Boy pulled ahead just by a few votes. Sophomore Claire Keturi chose Punk Rock as her favorite music because she said, “It’s less cliché.”
     For saying that our school is in the middle of a corn field, I would of thought country would have been more popular than rap and punk rock. To conclude, it seems that the students at Olympia equally listen to Rap, Country, and Punk Rock.

DANGEROUS MAN TOUR
ROCKS OUT
U.S.CELLULAR COLLISEUM

 By Erin Twente
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

photo by Google
     Trace Adkins born and raised in Sarepta, Louisiana, began his music career by studying music at the University Louisiana Tech after high school. He started singing in small gigs at “Honkey Tonk” bars after moving to Nashville in the 1990’s, and soon signed on with Capital Records after becoming famous. Now the 6’6” tall star has six albums published since 1997 including his newest album “Dangerous Man”. Which brings us to his Dangerous Man Tour that came to Bloomington’s U.S. Cellular Coliseum Friday March 9th.
     Opening acts of the tour warming up the crowd includeed Danielle Peck, born and raised in Coshocton, Ohio as a daughter of a U.S. Marine. Followed by Craig Morgan, who once served as a U.S. Army paratrooper in the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. But the real crowd pleaser of the evening was the real “Dangerous Man” himself, Trace Adkins.
     Lorrin Watson who had seats in the 20th row on the floor said,“The concert was definitely worth the money. My favorite song was Lady’s Love Country Boys.” Nicole Davis was not on the floor but said, “It was awesome, definitely worth it”. Her favorite thing about the concert was “getting Danielle Peck’s autograph.” And her favorite song was also “Lady’s Love Country Boys.” As many of us girls like to go to these country concerts, the guys like to have a good time as well. Todd Yacko’s opinion on the concert was a bit different than the girls. Todd said, “Yes” it was worth it going to the concert. And something in general about Trace, Todd said, “He’s huge, he’s the biggest guy I’ve ever seen in my life.” And Todd’s favorite song by Trace at the concert was a remake of Ronnie Milsap’s “Stranger In My House.” And as a reporter,the concert was a BLAST. It was everything these students have said and more.

SECONDHAND SERENADE
Let’s Get Rockin!!

 By Jesse Hodge and Ashley Webb
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007
     Being the avid music fans that we are, we found it appropriate to review a new CD. Ever since we were little tykes, we’ve loved Secondhand Serenade. Ok, well maybe since 2006, but whatever. That’s why when the new album dropped, we were stoked, and immediately hopped in the car and made a trip to Best Buy to pick it up. The entire car ride home we rocked out, hardcore style.
     The sole member of this band, John Vesely, has been playing music since he was 12 years old. He recorded his first and only album so far as an unsigned artist in the summer of 2005.
     The CD, Awake, has 12 amazing tracks on it. Like most people, we picked out our favorite song and played it on repeat for a good 10 minutes. Our first favorite was “Vulnerable,” but eventually we ventured out and listened to the rest of the CD. We soon fell in love with almost every other track. Our only complaint about the Secondhand Serenade CD is the track called “I Hate This Song,” because it was kind of whiney.
     Not many people are familiar with the band, but luckily we found a few who were. Junior Christen Roberts said, “I love Secondhand Serenade because it’s acoustic and mellow. It’s good to listen to in your car when you’re mad at the world.” Junior Jacob Johanson agreed by saying, “If you want to think deep about life, definitely listen to them.”
     After falling in love with the band, we searched frantically for a concert. Unfortunately, the closest concert is in San Diego, CA. Who knows, maybe we’ll decide to road trip it.
     Until next time, keep rockin’ out!

Ben Folds Rockin' in Normal


By Jacob Hadsall
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

     The biggest upcoming music event for the month of April is, Ben Folds, on April 2. As of 2006, Ben Folds has released 4 solo CDs, including an experimental side project called Fear of Pop. Olympia junior Samantha Williams said, “This concert is going to be hot!”
     His first solo release after the breakup of the his band ( The Ben Fold Five) was Rockin' the Suburbs in 2001, where he played nearly all the instruments, mostly guitar, an instrument he rarely used with the Ben Folds Five band.
     A year later, in 2002, he released Ben Folds Live, a group of songs he had recorded live. Songs for Silverman was released in the United States on April 26, 2005. The album featured Jared Reynolds on bass and Lindsay Jamieson on the drums.
     Folds' concerts are best known for his act as "Ben Folds and a Piano," where he usually has the audience "play" the accompanying instruments (like singing the trumpet and saxophone harmonies in "Army") Ben Folds will be at Braden Auditorium on Monday April 4. “Anyone who isn’t there is crazy,” said Eric Biehl.


Major League Baseball 2k7: The Real Deal?


By Jeff Freitag
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

     On February 27th, Major League Baseball 2k7 by 2k Sports, the most anticipated sports game in a long time was released for the XBOX 360 and Playstation 3. I had to scramble around that night just to find a copy and finally managed to find one at Best Buy around eight o’clock the night of its release. I decided to purchase the game after I heard that it was vastly improved over last years 2k6 version.
     I elected to play against the CPU on rookie level for my first game and just got demolished. The game takes a lot of getting used to and I was woefully unprepared for that match up. Towards the end of the game I got used to the pitching a little more and was able to throw strikes at least. Once I was finished with those 9 innings I connected to XBOX Live to see how the online gameplay was. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there were already 1045 users online. The online mode has many features that are new to 2k sports. From the online lobby you can join leagues and tournaments with up to 30 people. I ended up playing a match against a guy from New York and lost in the 11th inning to a walk-off Hideki Matsui bomb. It was an upsetting way to lose my first game but I had fun doing it. MLB 2k7 in high-definition is the best looking sports game that I have ever seen, and the playing of the game is greatly improved.
     I played a few intense games with Clint Watkins and he called it “the best looking sports game that he has ever played.” Game Informer, a leader in the gaming magazine industry, gave MLB 2k7 an 8.5 rating out of 10, which is unheard of for most baseball games. Although they did say that there were some errors on the Playstation 2 and XBOX versions with player ratings, so the game is not suggested unless it is on the XBOX 360 or Playstation 3.

MySpace Vs. Facebook

 By Darci Williams
posted 8:42 AM CST, April 23, 2007


     Although blogging websites are blocked here at school, you will find students messing with their MySpace or Facebook at home, when at friend’s houses, or any free computer they see. World wide these two blog spots are very popular for people of all ages. With both MySpace created in 2004 and Facebook created soon after in the same year, but with different intentions, they both hit big.
     The oh so famous, “Tom” of MySpace created his website for teens and young adults to communicate with one and other by simply leaving comments on their page and adding pictures. There are ways to customize your page by changing the background, adding music, having picture albums, and changing the fonts and colors on your page. Becoming addicted to MySpace is not that hard for one to do. There are many concerns of course with all the sexual predators out there, but Tom allows your profile page to be private… it’s also recommended that you don’t put a lot of personal information on your page.
     Facebook as a little bit different story. Mark Zuckerburg, a Harvard University graduate created the Facebook. Facebook is an online directory that allows students to discover each other through mutual friendships and interests. Zuckerburg envisioned the Facebook as a form of light ice breaking that allows for an easier transition into the bewildering social scene at colleges. Then it ventured off to be available to anyone. High school students are using Facebook as well as a few middle school students.
     I asked around school to see which blog space is favored here at Olympia: Junior Caitie Ross said she liked MySpace better because it seems like Facebook is more of a college website.
     Senior Stephany Meyer said, “I like MySpace better because you can do more with it -- like have cute backgrounds, music, and change up the fonts and make them cute. Facebook is just boring.”
     Junior Becca Neblock said, “Facebook = Stalkerspace -- because on Facebook, if you are friends with another Facebook user, it tells everything that person has done on their Facebook. It’s overall just a lazy version MySpace.”
     All of these interviewees, whether they favor one over the other, have both a MySpace and a Facebook. But it is evident that students here at Olympia agree that MySpace is a better blog spot.

What Ice Scream Makes you Scream?

 By John Henderson
posted 9:04 AM CST, April 23, 2007


     I scream, you scream, everyone in their right freakin’ mind screams for ice cream, unless of course you’re lactose-intolerant. But everyone likes different types of ice cream, whether it is sherbert, home-made or Sam William’s personal favorite, Reese’s pieces flavored Ben & Jerry’s.
     There are many places in a town near by that you can find a hot fudge sundae or a banana split. There’s Sonic, Dairy Barn, Dairy Queen, Carl’s, Cold Stone and, without a doubt, Culver’s. Each ice cream chain has seductive flavors that leave you begging for more the moment you leave. Carl’s, of course, has the little plastic eyes that they put into your ice cream that makes it look like a face. Sonic definitely makes you want to get their Oreo Sonic Blast because “Sonic’s got em,’ others don’t.”
      Caleb Lang says that chocolate ice cream from Genes is his favorite; I agree, Genes is very good. There sure is nothing that gets between a hungry, paying customer and their delicious frozen desert. My personal favorite choice of ice cream would definitely have to be Dairy Queen, I just can’t get over those hot fudge sundaes, they’re amazing!



Ten Bad Movies You Need To See

 By Alec Novakow
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     It takes a special kind of movie to be so bad that it’s funny. Most end up only being mediocre and forgettable, but there are a special few that have risen… or fallen to become the best of the worst, and for their wasted efforts, we at The Torch salute these awesomely bad movies.
Alien Warrior What it’s About: Buddy, the title’s alien warrior is sent to Earth in order to stop “great evil.” Who or what great evil is? Nobody knows, not even Buddy. Eventually he gives up looking and starts a youth reading center with a group of Latino gang bangers. Add to it the acting of the guy who played Nick the Chippendales Guy in Bachelor Party and you’ve got yourself a movie so bad, its mind blowing. Why You Should See It: Because you want to have your mind blown.
Bad Taste What it’s About: When a group of aliens starts killing humans with the intent of making them into snack treats, only a group of commandoes can stop them. Why You Should See It: It’s directed by Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings) who combines absurd ideas with graphic violence and plays the whole thing for comedic effect.
Cool As Ice What it’s About: Vanilla Ice comes to a small town on his motorcycle and tries to win the love of an honor student whose father is in the witness protection program. After I first saw the movie I thought, “Wow as much as I hate him, Vanilla Ice doesn’t deserve to be in something this bad.” Upon further reviewing of “Ice Ice Baby,” my reaction changed to “Yes, yes he does.” This movie is so bad my DVD player rejected it. Why You Should See It: Because it holds Vanilla Ice’s first and last starring role in a movie and for its totally useable pickup lines like: “Drop that zero and get with the hero!”
Death Race 2000 What it’s About: David Carradine races Sylvester Stallone and a few other people in a cross country contest in which points are scored by running people over. Why You Should See It: If for no other reason then to watch a pre-Rocky Stallone slumming it in his early career as “Machine-Gun” Joe. In fact, the best part of this movie involves Joe punching out his female navigator, just for back talking him. Say what you will, but there’s something very satisfying and hilarious about watching the all America hero Rocky punch a woman in the face.
Death Wish 3 What it’s About: Charles Bronson’s friend is killed by a gang and from then it’s on. Why You Should See It: Because Bronson is able purchase a rocket launcher through the mail and because the lead villain wears a reverse mo-hawk. à
Future Force What it’s About: David Carradine embarrasses himself as a bounty hunter from the future who tells people that they have right to die. Why You Should See It: Because Carradine has a robotic glove which flies, shoots lasers, and has a tendency to punch people in the nether regions.
Mitchell What it’s About: Joe Don Baker stars as a cop trying to stop big time drug dealers. Why You Should See It: Because Mitchell is an overweight, alcoholic failure who spends most of his time drinking, yelling at children, and getting into incredibly lame car chases.
Riki Oh: The Story of Ricky What it’s About: It’s about a guy named Ricky who has enough strength to literally punch a hole through a man. He’s in prison for manslaughter and fights his way through the toughest prisoners including Rogan, Tarzan, and Brandon. Why You Should See It: It’s one of the most hilariously violent movies ever, as picture up above should give you a hint. I don’t want to spoil anything, but the ending involves an industrial strength meat grinder.
Samurai Cop What it’s About: Joe Marshall, the “Samurai Cop” is assigned to Los Angeles to take on the mighty Katana gang. Why You Should See It: Joe seems to know nothing about the Japanese or their culture. The only thing he does well is to hit on women in the sleaziest way possible. The dialogue in this movie transcends all rational thought and is nonsensical to the point where even the actors don’t seem to know what they’re talking about.
The Wicker Man What it’s About: Nicolas Cage searches for a missing girl by yelling randomly at people, getting into fist fights with teenage girls, and dressing up in a bear costume. Why You Should See It: Because seeing Nicolas Cage making one of the worst career moves ever is something that just has to be seen to be believed. If nothing else you need to see it for the reason that it’s unlike any other action movie in the fact that he punches out several women. I’m totally against violence against women, but considering that this was really funny, I’m gonna let it slide.

David Fincher Hits The Streets of San Francisco

 By Alec Novakow
posted 9:04 AM CST, April 23, 2007


     “Just because you can’t prove it, doesn’t mean it isn’t true.”

     David Fincher, the man behind such classics as Se7en and Fight Club, returns with a vengeance, after a five-year absence, to bring forth the story of the Zodiac killer. For those of you who don’t know, the Zodiac was a serial killer who terrorized San Francisco from the mid 60’s through the late 70’s. He taunted both the police and the newspapers with cryptic messages and letters daring them to catch him, which they never did.
     The film opens with the Zodiac’s first known attack, a young couple in a car on a “lover’s lane” road. Right away it provokes a sense of urgency and significance, as if to say “this is what really happened, this is important, pay close attention.” His ironic use of “Hurdy Gurdy Man” by
     Donovan only makes the scene that more terrifying.
     Jake Gyllenhaal plays Robert Graysmith, a cartoonist who was working for the San Francisco Chronicle at the time. His obsession with the case eventually leads him to working with Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo), the SF detective in charge of the investigation. On a side note, the real life Toschi served as the basis for both Steve McQueen in Bullitt and Clint Eastwood in Dirty Harry. Robert
     Downey Jr. round’s out the main cast as Paul Avery, the Chronicle journalist who followed the Zodiac case, and later had his life threatened because of it. The entire cast here is excellent, and come next year they are all shoo-ins for “Best Sideburns” at the 2008 Oscars.
     Fincher’s direction here is outstanding; there’s really no one else who could have done this story justice. Since he grew up directly in the area where all this was happening, it only adds to his credibility. Of the many things which separate Zodiac from other thrillers, is the fact that while watching it, there is no relief by thinking it’s only a movie. Yes, it’s only a movie, but the events and the killings did actually happen. The investigation did go on, but no one was ever charged with the crimes. Although it is somewhat comforting to know that their main suspect died about 15 years ago. In any case, it’s by far one of the creepiest and most captivating two and a half hours ever put on film.
     Zodiac is the first great film of 2007, and one that will continue to haunt audiences for years to come. (8/10) See it if you liked: Manhunter, The Silence of The Lambs, or Se7en. Rated R for some strong killings, language, drug material and brief sexual images.

Tonight We Dine In Hell

 By Alec Novakow
posted 9:04 AM CST, April 23, 2007



     “Spartans! Enjoy your breakfast, for tonight we dine in Hell!”


     Frank Miller’s graphic novel comes to vivid, bloody life with this visually stunning film from Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead remake), and it pretty much sets a new level for epic-battle type flicks.
     The story is a simple enough one, taking place in 480 B.C., a time when real men lived and were lucky to live past thirty. It focuses on the Spartan King Leonidas and his 300 soldiers, who took on over 100,000 Persians when their King Xerxes threatened to invade Greece. They fought for three days, never giving up, and never taking any prisoners. The only reason they failed was due to political corruption, and not for a lack of trying or strategy.
     What’s so great about this movie is that it works as both an adaptation of a graphic novel, and while at the same time it presents an entirely new look and style that is uniquely different from pretty much any other film before it. The only real visual comparison that can be made here is Robert Rodriguez’s adaptation of Sin City (also from Frank Miller), which was shot in a similar fashion using the latest in computer graphics, and the green screen technique, where the sets and actors move in real time and the backgrounds are later added in digitally. But as Sin City was mostly in black and white in efforts to stay true to the comic books, 300 is in full color. The results are nothing short of stunning.
     It would be a shame to not mention Gerald Butler’s performance as King Leonidas here, because not only does Butler give a really great performance, but also because his last movie was The Phantom of The Opera as the Phantom, and in this movie he’s playing a hardcore king. Few actors can make that leap. Also good are Lena Headey as Queen Gorgo and Dominic West (“The Wire”) as Theron, the politician.
     It may not have the story depth or characterization that made Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven so good, but it was never meant to. The original graphic novel was more about style over substance anyway and it’s fitting that the movie version turned out the same. That said, it is immensely stylish and entirely engrossing. You’d be hard pressed to find a more entertaining or cooler movie to watch, especially when Wild

Hogs is breaking bank and my faith in American taste keeps getting dimmer and dimmer.

See It If You Liked: Sin City, Gladiator, Troy, or Kingdom of Heaven

(8/10)

Rated R for graphic battle sequences throughout, some sexuality and nudity.

The Battle of N64 & PS1

 By Jacob Johanson
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007

-V-

     In history, there have been many different game systems. It ranges from Atari to X-box 360. Two of the systems made the way for all systems after them. They were Nintendo 64 and Playstation 1. Which of these is greater? The world may never know, but we can guess.
     First, we have to think about the game feature. In a survey to decide which has the better graphics, games, multiplayer opportunities, and controls, we found out that Nintendo 64 swept the competition. But when it came down to just how much people liked them they where in a dead lock with one another.
     The answer to this agonizing question is that when it comes to the overall ability of the game the winner is Nintendo 64. Sorry Playstation fans, but numbers do not lie and Nintendo was dramatically ahead in every category.

Wii Vs. Sega Genesis

 By Brooks Williams
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     Time and time again, people have used up their class time to argue about which video game console is better and which one has more ‘power’ and can kick out the best ‘graphics’. Well, I’ll tell you one thing, the Wii and the Sega Genesis have been at it for months now, and now I’m going to settle the score and compare them as best as I can. Hopefully this will clear up some of the arguments and get everyone back to studying. The first and arguably most important category in anything is graphics. Now, I know when I go to a store to buy a game, game play and how entertaining it can be are always the last things I ever think about. Amazing graphics are what hits the top every time for me, so this category goes first. The Genesis packs hardcore 16-bit graphics, which are amazing for the ‘blast processing’ for Sonic the Hedgehog games. The Wii has outstanding 3D Dolby Pro-Logic 2 graphics, capable of making smoother characters and able to put 1,000s of characters on the screen at one time, which the Genesis struggles to do without encountering slowdown. While 16-bit is truly outstanding, the Nintendo Wii takes the cake this round! Winner: Wii The next thing that’s always important to compare is the overall game play of the consoles, which is not shrugged off by either console as an afterthought, thankfully. The Genesis plays with a controller, with several buttons on it, and can be hooked up for multiplayer, although sometimes (depending on the game) it’s a bit sluggish and unresponsive. The Wii uses some good old motion detection for its remote-and-num chuck themed controllers, which, when moved, can control the object or character on the screen. It’s not always 100% perfect on every game, but it’s still a great enough control system to kick the Genesis into the dark. Winner: Wii Lastly, entertainment is always the reason anyone plays games in the first place. The Wii brings some fun to every generation in the family, whether it is a bowling game or the new hardcore Legend of Zelda: The Twilight Princess. The Genesis, on the other hand, gets props for being older and having more nostalgic entertainment value. While most of the games on it are, in my opinion, awful, it’s still fun to pal around with it every once and awhile. However, the Wii takes this round, because it’s more accessible and family-friendly then the Genesis. Winner: Wii The battle is over, the smoke has cleared, and both bloodied consoles set down their weapons. The Wii wins as the best console. But do the people agree? Lacy Phelps agreed, adding, “That’s cool!” Abbi Groth wasn’t too sure, but finally settled on the contest picking the best verdict after all and said that I made the right decision. So go out there and pick one up today!

Halo 3 Crushing New Announcements

 By Jacob Johanson
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     By Jacob Johanson One of the most anticipated games of this year and maybe ever is Halo 3. It will be released the Fall of 2007. The reason for this is because of the amazing graphics and Action of the game Halo 2. Many have said that the story line is one of the best creators could ever come out with. Even though Halo 2 was astonishing Halo 3 will be even better. There are many new features to the game. There are new weapons, vehicles, and control. There are three new weapons that we know of right now. They are the spiker-a new Brute weapon, the Spartan laser- a laser that tears vehicles apart, and the Nail Grenade- sticks into walls and sends nails everywhere. So far there is only one totally new vehicle. It is the Mongoose. This is the ATV that was cut from Halo 2. It seats two and has no weapons. The new controls are instead of reloading with the x button you have to push to bumper buttons above the triggers. And so that means that the x button has a new feature however it is a secrete at this time. This game will change the gaming world forever. “I’ve already preordered the game,” says Ryan Holmes. Even though the due date isn’t for a while it will be here in no time.

MLB 2K7: The Real Deal?

 By Jeff Freitag
posted 9:17 AM CST, Mar 16, 2007


     On February 27th, Major League Baseball 2k7 by 2k Sports, the most anticipated sports game in a long time was released for the XBOX 360 and Playstation 3. I had to scramble around that night just to find a copy and finally managed to find one at Best Buy around eight o’clock the night of its release. I decided to purchase the game after I heard that it was vastly improved over last years 2k6 version. I elected to play against the CPU on rookie level for my first game and just got demolished. The game takes a lot of getting used to and I was woefully unprepared for that match up. Towards the end of the game I got used to the pitching a little more and was able to throw strikes at least. Once I was finished with those 9 innings I connected to XBOX Live to see how the online gameplay was. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there were already 1045 users online. The online mode has many features that are new to 2k sports. From the online lobby you can join leagues and tournaments with up to 30 people. I ended up playing a match against a guy from New York and lost in the 11th inning to a walk-off Hideki Matsui bomb. It was an upsetting way to lose my first game but I had fun doing it. MLB 2k7 in high-definition is the best looking sports game that I have ever seen, and the playing of the game is greatly improved. I played a few intense games with Clint Watkins and he called it “the best looking sports game that he has ever played.” Game Informer, a leader in the gaming magazine industry, gave MLB 2k7 an 8.5 rating out of 10, which is unheard of for most baseball games. Although they did say that there were some errors on the Playstation 2 and XBOX versions with player ratings, so the game is not suggested unless it is on the XBOX 360 or Playstation 3.

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