28 items found for your search. If no results were found please broaden your search.
(01/13/11 12:59am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Deep in the belly of Bloomington, I found myself freshening up in the little girls’ room at a certain establishment, which will remain unnamed due to the nature of this remarkable event. This was no ordinary night; it was “Amateur’s Night,” or, as it’s known to most, New Year’s Eve. Whilst performing the top-secret activities in which all women engage while in the restroom, I suddenly found myself face to face with a ghostly apparition. Apparently, this phantasm had floated out of the toilet, going completely unnoticed until directly floating between myself and my reflection. Appalled, I stood flabbergasted, not only by the spirit, but also by its identity: It was Michael Jackson! Gesturing for me to follow him to the toilet, he pointed while I stared down in wild disbelief. My eyes shone as brightly as the ornamentation dangling off his jacket, and through the reflection in the water I glimpsed the future. This toilet bowl bestowed most of the 2011 music scene unto me, with a little help from my spectral guide.Out of this watery portal I heard the folksy rhythms of Iron & Wine’s upcoming release “Kiss Each Other Clean,” which will leave the listener soothed with the twangy strings and meditative drums that Samuel Beam seams together. Another flush and Bright Eyes’ “The People’s Key” hummed into my eardrums. For the more sentimental at heart, this album will deliver Conor Oberst’s melodramatic voice and shaky sound. I’m sure the gods of indie music will be appeased by these two releases.Another flush and Lupe Fiasco’s “Lasers” whirled up out of the ceramic crystal ball. His smooth vocals and bouncy beats were reminiscent of his past two albums and stamped with his alternative-rap style. I’m almost positive I heard some of the N.E.R.D. clan performing on one of his tracks. After a few seconds passed, a window-rattling bass dropped, followed by a tight piano drizzled riff. The unmistakable and breathy sound of Snoop Dogg filled the restroom and the booming voice of Dr. Dre exploded. After 12 years, the long anticipated album “Detox” will finally hit the shelves. Of course, Dr. Dre is still taking his time to perfect the beat.Thoroughly shaken by the magnitude of these works, I stepped back from the toilet, but the music proceeded to play. Electronic noises and the falsetto pitch of Thom Yorke rung out of the toilet, signaling what must have been Radiohead’s upcoming release. This album has been rumored to be their best, and from the progressive sound of it, I can’t say that I disagree. However, by this point in the evening, I’d had enough of this time traveling. The space-time continuum can be a messy place, and there’s no reason that I should have this entire year’s musical bounty ruined for myself, lest I should do the same for everyone else. I walked out of the bathroom and into the airy Bloomington night brimming with excitement for the expansion of my iTunes library.
(11/17/10 11:27pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Which movies mirror the books the most concisely? Here’s a carefully compiled list only taking into consideration the loyalty depicted in each movie to the book’s plotline.1. “The Sorcerer’s Stone” — Coincidentally, the first book of this saga is the most faithful to its literary brother. It’s in this movie that Ron, Harry and Hermione capture the identities of the saga that have become so familiar. By retaining the meat of the book’s heavy dialogue and remaining true to its length, the movie emulates much of the whimsical vibe present in the book. However, by stretching out sequences such as the opening scene at Privet Drive, its duration has been seen as almost too time consuming.2. “The Chamber of Secrets” — Just like “The Sorcerer’s Stone,” this movie remains quite loyal to the original storyline of the book. The movie successfully adapts the darker tones present in the books as Harry is confronted by the truth of his Parseltongue abilities and the mysterious Tom Riddle. Because the film takes so much consideration into mirroring the book, a common complaint is it is too lengthy. 3. “The Goblet of Fire” — This cinematic endeavor can be observed as the last of the “lighter” films in Harry’s journey. With epic dragon fighting scenes and encounters with mermaids, this film still grasps a certain whimsicality that is lost in the following adventures. A few of the excluded scenes include Hermione’s creation of S.P.E.W. and any interaction with the Dursleys. 4. “The Order of Phoenix” — As the Potter book series dove into heavier themes, the movies followed suit. Harry and the gang are faced with mature decisions leading to the coming-of-age concepts presented in the latter part of the saga. The filmmakers chose to exclude several scenes viewed as pivotal to the fifth book, which disgruntled fans of the novel. A few of these exclusions were the complete absence of Quidditch, the erasure of Rita Skeeter’s role and the failure to depict the history of Neville’s parents’ death.5. “The Half-Blood Prince” — In this film, a heavy serving of romance and hormones waylay the cinematic plot line. Although it boasts visually stunning effects, the deleted battle sequence at Hogwarts and the failure to illustrate Dumbledore’s funeral was a major letdown for fans. 6. “The Prisoner of Azkaban” — Widely accepted as the pinnacle of the Harry Potter book series, the movie, while still adored by many fans, veered the furthest from what Rowling had authored. The fantastical depiction of Hogsmeade and the beloved Invisibility Cloak found in the film version do the book justice.However, the lack of attention paid to the crucial history of the Marauder’s Map, the failure to delve into the complex history of Sirius Black and the exaggeration of the Knight Bus experience make reconciliation between the film and the book difficult.
(11/17/10 11:22pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Which movies mirror the books the most concisely? Here’s a carefully compiled list only taking into consideration the loyalty depicted in each movie to the book’s plotline.1. “The Sorcerer’s Stone” — Coincidently, the first book of this saga is the most faithful to its literary brother. It’s in this movie that Ron, Harry and Hermione capture the identities of the saga that have become so familiar. By retaining the meat of the book’s heavy dialogue and remaining true to its length, the movie emulates much of the whimsical vibe present in the book. However, by stretching out sequences such as the opening scene at Privet Drive, its duration has been seen as almost too time consuming.2. “The Chamber of Secrets” — Just like “The Sorcerer’s Stone,” this movie remains quite loyal to the original storyline of the book. The movie successfully adapts the darker tones present in the books as Harry is confronted by the truth of his Parseltongue abilities and the mysterious Tom Riddle. Because the film takes so much consideration into mirroring the book, a common complaint is it is too lengthy. 3. “The Goblet of Fire” — This cinematic endeavor can be observed as the last of the “lighter” films in Harry’s journey. With epic dragon fighting scenes and encounters with mermaids, this film still grasps a certain whimsicality that is lost in the following adventures. A few of the excluded scenes include Hermione’s creation of S.P.E.W. and any interaction with the Dursleys. 4. “The Order of Phoenix” — As the Potter book series dove into heavier themes, the movies followed suit. Harry and the gang are faced with mature decisions leading to the coming-of-age concepts presented in the latter part of the saga. The filmmakers chose to exclude several scenes viewed as pivotal to the fifth book, which disgruntled fans of the novel. A few of these exclusions were the complete absence of Quidditch, the erasure of Rita Skeeter’s role and the failure to depict the history of Neville’s parents’ death.5. “The Half-Blood Prince” — In this film, a heavy serving of romance and hormones waylay the cinematic plot line. Although it boasts visually stunning effects, the deleted battle sequence at Hogwarts and the failure to illustrate Dumbledore’s funeral was a major letdown for fans. 6. “The Prisoner of Azkaban” — Widely accepted as the pinnacle of the Harry Potter book series, the movie, while still adored by many fans, veered the furthest from what Rowling had authored. The fantastical depiction of Hogsmeade and the beloved Invisibility Cloak found in the film version do the book justice.However, the lack of attention paid to the crucial history of the Marauder’s Map, the failure to delve into the complex history of Sirius Black and the exaggeration of the Knight Bus experience make reconciliation between the film and the book difficult.
(11/17/10 11:09pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Whether the name just sounds cool to say or the spell itself would come in handy, these Harry Potter spells are the unforgettable gems of the batch.“Expecto Patronum” Firstly, this spell provides protection from the notorious Dementors. It is also a favorite, because the animal is uniquely manifested by the personal essence of the wizard or witch casting the spell.“Avada Kedavra” Hearing this spell shouted out loud across the theater is possibly one of the most entertaining parts of going to a midnight showing of the Harry Potter series. Plus, who wouldn’t like to just see their archnemisis simply drop dead on the spot? No bullets necessary.“Wingardium Leviosa”The ability to move a couch with the flick of a wand is a wholly tempting aspect of this handy spell. Although it is one of the most useful spells, it is also one of the most basic in the wizarding curriculum. Feeling it roll off the tongue is one of the most enjoyable aspects of this charming spell.“Expelliarmus” More times than once this beginner spell has gotten Harry out of a jam, and it seems like one that would always come in handy.“Accio” No more getting up to change the channel whilst enjoying your favorite Quidditch match. Simply repeat “Accio remote” and relax while the tediously distant object comes flying into one’s grasp.“Stupefy” Not only is this one entertaining to say, but it also stuns one’s opponent in their tracks. It’s thanks to this spell that Harry stands a chance against his more advanced opponents on numerous occasions.“Lumos” Forget about lugging around a flashlight anymore with this spell. The knowledge of this one could shine some light in the darkest and creepiest of places."Apparition"Although quite advanced, this instantaneous teleportation would be well worth the time learning. Just don’t forget the three D’s: Destination, Determination, and Deliberation, or the results could be gruesome.
(11/17/10 10:46pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>In “Unstoppable,” a renegade train threatens to destroy the lives of innocent bystanders, maim the conductors and cost its company millions of dollars, all while never failing to keep one’s adrenaline pumping. Loaded with diesel fuel and explosive chemicals, this train grabs and drags the viewer along for its dangerous joyride.With his standard confident swagger, Denzel Washington radiates as a seasoned locomotive engineer and provides strength in a plot filled with familiar faces. He tries to keep his head while the hurtling train instigates brilliant explosions, epic collisions and break-neck speed pursuits.The fast-paced speed of the movie keeps the viewer fully engaged in the dynamic action that takes place on screen. This movie provides a plethora of entertainment derived from its solid cast, special effects and engaging storyline. Anyone searching for a stimulating and exciting movie would highly enjoy this movie that simply brims with action.
(10/20/10 11:49pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>In “Leaves of Grass,” Edward Norton fills the roles of an Ivy League professor, Bill Kincaid, and his pot-dealing twin brother, Brady. The film illustrates Bill’s struggle with his roots after being tricked into coming home to assist his twin in the overthrow of a local drug lord. It’s the setup for a madcap comedy, but Director Tim Blake Nelson adds a dark twist to this story.Bill and Brady both engage in violence and personal romances that seem paradoxical to the earlier silliness. With all of these factors peppered throughout the film, the cohesiveness of the plot and character development is compromised. Although “Leaves of Grass” is entertaining, it leaves the viewer unsatisfied.And the DVD’s extras, which include only a commentary by Norton, a theatrical trailer and deleted scenes, are nothing to write home about.
(10/06/10 9:34pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>For the past 40-something years, Neil Young has collaboratively and individually created 63 albums. His falsetto pitch has remained constant, while his guitar has wavered from folksy and acoustic to harsh and amplified. On his most recent release, “Le Noise,” he digs into the electronic face of music to orchestrate noteworthy tracks. A spacey, dark tone flows throughout the album accompanied by only sound effects, vocals and guitar strings. That means no percussion, but by no means does this album ever sound empty.The track “Walk With Me” is a heavily distorted cut fueled by electric guitar and sporadic beeps. Young’s echo-laden vocals invite the listener to “Walk With Me,” and with the album opening on this note, even the most casual Young listener will be enticed. Bare tracks like “Love and War” and “Peaceful Valley Boulevard” remind of the older bare Young tracks like the acoustic, rustic sounds of “Harvest Moon.”Any listener looking for insightful lyrics on topics like conflict, humanity or love could happily spend 37 minutes absorbing this album.
(08/08/10 10:07pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The 2010-11 IU academic agenda is proceeding with a motto that has become a household term in the past few years.With the College of Arts and Sciences College Themester fall topic “Sustainability: Thriving on a Small Planet” and the success of the 2010 Energy Challenge, finding greener methods of life on campus appears to be a growing interest.IU’s emphasis on the movement to operate more sustainably is currently on a whole new level of concentration, but the achievement has been several years in the making.In March 2007, the IU administration assigned a Task Force on Campus Sustainability made up of students and faculty members to assess the sustainability situation. Later that year, the Sustainable Endowments Institute gave IU a “D+” by national campus standards of environmental friendliness. The IUB Council of Environmental Stewardship, started in 1998, addressed academic and operational issues closely related to the current sustainability initiative during its seven-year run. After the disbanding of the council, the administration deemed it necessary to begin amplifying the school’s environmental awareness.“About 100 people were involved (in the task force) that worked for nine months on subjects ranging from transportation to food to academic initiatives,” said Michael Hamburger, professor of geological sciences.The task force released its evaluation in 2009 and suggested that an Office of Sustainability be formed.“The creation of the office is a milestone in itself,” said Emilie Rex, assistant director for the Office of Sustainability.The office, established in 2009 and headed by Bill Brown, has spearheaded a number of operations on campus since its creation.A main goal of the office is to establish a network of like-minded efforts across campus and to get their tasks accomplished, Brown said.Connecting the operational and academic sides of sustainable IU is an important focus for the office’s interns. The interns have toiled over methods of re-establishing the wetlands on campus, organizing an on-site composting spot and planning the Energy Challenge.Graduate student Mckenzie Beverage conceived the Energy Challenge, which attempted to reduce energy consumption across campus. The challenge was deemed a campus-wide success, stemming from the residence halls to the greek community, with Zeta Tau Alpha and Collins Living Learning Center taking home prizes.Even the buildings at IU are under reevaluation.In 2007, not a single building on campus was certified by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, meaning that the carbon footprints being left by these buildings were more adverse to the environment than certified buildings.However, as of 2010 IU is home to two LEED-certified buildings, one being the Research and Teaching Preserve, while 11 more are in the process of reaching the standards.Energy saving is a prominent issue on campus, because not only does the reduction of energy prevent damage to the environment, it also helps keep IU fiscally sound — ideal in a time packed with budget cuts. All incoming freshmen will be introduced to the school’s incentives and ideas concerning sustainability, Rex said.“We had a strong presence at orientation this year,” Rex said.A table informing new students about IU’s goals was present at orientation, and Brown penned an article containing material informing freshman on how to become active in the campus’s endeavors. Additionally, the students living in residence halls will be presented with the opportunity to recycle.Steve Akers, an associate director of environmental operations for Residential Programs and Services, helped kick off these recycling processes in the dorms.“An increased awareness by all to be more sustainable — and by sustainable I mean recycling, turning off unnecessary lighting and taking shorter showers — has been noticeable since these greener efforts have commenced,” he said.Additionally, the upcoming College of Arts and Sciences Themester’s concentration on sustainability is a way to expose all students and faculty to the idea.An influx of people, ideas and opportunities all regarding sustainability will be flowing onto campus with the commencement of the Themester. Renowned speakers and individuals of marked expertise in their fields will be gracing IU in regards to sustainability, including poet Wendell Berry and author Wes Jackson, during the 2010-11 school year.A preliminary event highlighting the campus’s sustainability efforts will take place Sept. 10 in Dunn Meadow.“The Themester will only add to raising the awareness by connecting with the different interests of students,” Akers said.With all these innovations occurring around IU, the progression of campus toward becoming a greener space is apparent.Although IU still has room to grow, the University has been most recently ranked a “B-” by the Sustainable Endowments Institute and is making strides in encouraging this change on campus.“It’s not about sacrificing,” Hamburger said, quoting Brown. “It’s about learning to live within our means.”