Mount Hood

Review: “Ugly Delicious”

Caitlyn Nakatsukasa | Freelancer

The word ‘food’ is sure to capture my attention whether I see pictures of it on social media or physically up close and personal. That is why Netflix’s new food-focused travel series “Ugly Delicious” undoubtedly seized my interest and increased my excitement for their anticipated release date on Feb. 23.

This show is about award-winning chef David Chang teaming up with director and producer Morgan Neville and food writer Peter Meehan to travel across the world and explore the different types of food and the cultural insights behind the food’s value. Each episode has a different food theme that Chang and his crew apply to different countries  they try and see how each of the countries interpret the dish and cook it in a way that represents their culture.

Rather than giving cooking lessons and showing how food should be made, they listen to stories and the history behind how restaurants make their dishes and what makes each piece stand out from a traditional dish. The show depicts how people categorize different dishes to a specific country and establish a certain meaning behind them because of where they originated from. Chang and his crew work together to tackle the culinary stereotypes and see how they use their local ingredients and methods of cooking to create the themed food in their perspective.

I found this show to be quite interesting, as it wasn’t what I was expecting. I was expecting to see more on how different restaurants around the globe cook their authentic dishes. The show mostly focuses on the importance of the dish and how it can relate to everyone whether the food derived from that area or not. “Ugly Delicious” also gave me insight regarding how these other restaurateurs and cooks think when they create the food and how it led to the business’s success. Each episode also lets you get to know Chef Chang a little better. His candid jokes and remarks made scenes more compelling and his snobby attitude made me want to watch more so I could see what he had to say about the dishes he tried.

Throughout the episodes, he meets with celebrities such as actor Aziz Ansari and television host Jimmy Kimmel to try food with them. Their conversations are amusing because of their humorous comments and their insights regarding what they think of the food. It’s interesting to find these celebrities in a different genre of entertainment because I’m so used to seeing them in their own shows.

Overall, I greatly enjoyed “Ugly Delicious” because it highlights cultural contrasts and new facts about food. I found it entertaining how an Australian restaurant can make similar version of Italy’s acquired dish using Australian ingredients and culinary knowledge and vice versa. I’m amazed at the abundance of different alterations people can make for one dish and with it still being a huge hit.

I would definitely recommend “Ugly Delicious” if you’re a person that wants to learn more about different food around the world and listen to the personal stories behind them, or if you just love food like me and enjoy watching anything related to food. I also recommend grabbing some food to eat after watching this you’re more than likely to get hungry and crave the foods you’ll see in these episodes.

Contact the author at cnakatsukasa15@wou.edu

Photo by: netflix.com

Bringing eastern Texas to Western Oregon

Stephanie Blair | Staff Writer

On March 1, the “nicest little whorehouse you ever did see” will be open to the public at Rice Auditorium. Under the direction of dance professor Sharon Oberst, actors and techs have been preparing Western’s production of “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” a Tony Award-winning musical best known for the 1982 film adaptation.

The show, both wild and western, tells the story of conservative ideals battling it out against a century of tradition in Texas. After popular television personality Melvin P. Thrope, portrayed by junior BFA acting major Nicholas Hulscher, condemns a whorehouse, the town goes into a frenzy. Some trying to close it, others fighting to keep it open.

At the center of the conflict is brothel-owner Miss Mona — the iconic role portrayed by Dolly Parton in 1982, here played by Lindsay Spear — and the abiding Sheriff Dodd, who regular attendees of Western theater will recognize as senior BFA acting major Gabriel Elmore. It seems like a simple plot, but the two-hour long production tackles a number of themes.

“This show is much more than it presents itself to be. There are societal overtones to it which I believe are still prevalent today,” said Elmore. “The deep-seated tragedy of watching something unfold before your very eyes, knowing damn well that there’s nothing you can do to stop it, is something which isn’t addressed in everyday life.”

The musical is still primarily a comedy, however, and a mature one, at that. Parents who are unfamiliar with the show may wish to see it before bringing their children. On the doors of Rice Auditorium, signs can be found warning of adult themes, including alcohol use, strong language and mild sexual content, in stereotypical Texan language: “Howdy y’all! This here show has some cussin’ and some rootin’ tootin’ shootin’ in it. There’s a piddlin’ of hop juice an a tad bit of spoonin’ and carryin on.”

From the 26-person cast to the box office workers, the set builders to the costume crew, the amount of work put into the production gives the show a feeling of authenticity and passion in every detail.

“I love musicals, and it’s been wonderful to have a chance to get to know some people and create some really gorgeous music with them,” said Hulscher. “A lot of work went into this show from a lot of different people, and I really hope anyone who comes to the show can see how much effort was put into it.”

Elmore echoed that sentiment, saying: “The amount of work that the ensemble has to put into a show like this is obscenely difficult, and every second counts. To watch them push themselves past what they thought possible is a wonderfully beautiful experience.”

The show opens on March 1, and continues through the week until Saturday with performances beginning at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 4 will have a matinee at 2 p.m. and then the schedule returns to normal, with March 7 through 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at the box office in person, or by calling the office at 503-838-8462 or emailing boxoffice@wou.edu. General admission is $14; senior citizens receive a discount, making their tickets $10; and students can purchase tickets for $8 with ID.

With eight performances slated and a 600-seat house, there is plenty of opportunity to see the musical, however purchasing tickets in advance is always advised. It’s also worth noting that, though the next two main-stage productions are dance-centric, this is the only musical of the year.

 

Contact the author at sblair13@wou.edu

Photos by: Paul F. Davis

“Wish You Were Here” comes to Western

Zoë Strickland | Editor-in-Chief

Religion, pop culture and politics all intertwine within the gallery halls of Campbell Hall. On Feb. 21, the Cannon Gallery of Art unveiled its newest winter term exhibition: “Wish You Were Here,” a posthumous display of the mixed media works of local artist David George Andersen.

Andersen’s work tends to incorporate multiple mediums displayed in the gallery are pieces that feature found objects, photographs and, in one case, flashing lights.

“I think this work takes some time to fully comprehend, just as it took time for the artist to conceptualize,” said Paula Booth, director of the Cannon Gallery. “While it is exquisitely crafted work and looks beautiful in the space, some might be turned off by some of the imagery.”

The work shown in the Cannon Gallery doesn’t shy away from bringing up controversial issues. Through his art, Andersen used everyday items that are often found in popular culture as a means to explore religious symbolism, the way religion is played out through the separation of church and state, as well as religion-based slurs. In his work, exhibit goers can find references to advertising campaigns, paint by number layouts and spirit boards.

When asked what she thinks Western students can get out of this exhibit, Booth responded, “While I can’t say exactly what students will take from the exhibit, I do know that if they spend time with the work, they may be surprised by the depth of meaning and humor in the work, as well as its relevance to the current moment in history.”

Andersen, who passed away in January 2017, had signed up to show his work at Western but was unable to see the exhibit through to its inception. Andersen’s wife, Melanie Weston, chose the title and title piece for “Wish You Were Here.”

“Vacation,” the piece of art highlighted on all of the publicity materials, is comprised of a Ouija board that spells out the chosen title for the exhibit.

“Quija boards that spell out ‘wish you were here’ are, in and of themselves, kind of humorous and intriguing,” said Booth. “That combined with the fact that David is no longer with us just adds another bittersweet layer to the piece.”  

In addition to working on his own art, Andersen held multiple positions relating to exhibit design; he worked as an exhibit designer at both the Frye Art Museum in Seattle, Washington and the Cheney Cowles Museum in Spokane, Washington. In a more local context, Andersen joined the team at Hallie Ford Art Museum in Salem, Oregon in 2007 and worked as both exhibition designer and chief preparator.

“Wish You Were Here” will be on display in the Cannon Gallery until March 23. Next term, the gallery will be showcasing a display of art from students at Linn Benton Community College, as well as the 50th Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition.

Contact the author at journaleditor@wou.edu

Review: “LONER”

Zoë Strickland | Editor-in-Chief

Social commentary should be hidden by danceable beats. At least that’s what Caroline Rose’s newest album “LONER” leads me to believe. The artist’s sophomore album is a far cry from the tracks she released four years ago, they’re brutally honest while being masked by a pleasant exterior.

“LONER” is harder than the moseying vibes put forth by Rose’s first album, “I Will Not Be Afraid.” If her first album was reminiscent of an upbeat version of The Wild Reeds, her second is a hazy Sleater-Kinney or Bikini Kill.

The first track on the album, “More of the Same Thing,” sets the tone of “LONER” to be dreamy and danceable. As the album progresses, the lighthearted nature of the first track shifts in a myriad of different directions. Somehow, Rose has created an album that, despite multitudes of different sounds, is blissfully cohesive.

“Money” is one of my personal favorite songs on the album. Rose’s lyrics are energetic and full of frenzy; the song is backed by loud synths that threaten to take over the track, but are no match for Rose’s commanding voice.

The energetic interlude comes to a pause with “Jeannie Becomes a Mom,” which brings the album back to its dreamy base. The song cyclically repeats the phrase, “now you’re in real life,” creating a whirlwind of surreal dissolution.

Throughout the album, the lyrics present an encompassing picture of Rose’s commentary on the society. Towards the end of the album, a 49-second song introduction titled “Smile! AKA Schizodrift Jam 1 AKA Bikini Intro” is a near-minute of repeated male voices urging the listener to smile. What follows in the track “Bikini” is a song of veiled misogynistic comments centering around the idea that success is related to dressing and acting the way people tell you to.

“LONER” is a catchy, intense album that’s more than what it appears to be upon first listen. The album hits the airwaves on Feb. 23.

Contact the author at journaleditor@wou.edu

Photo by: Carolinerosemusic.com

Review: “Black Panther”

Stephanie Blair | Staff Writer

I am sick and tired of Marvel movies. There are too many, the jokes aren’t that good and the plots are formulaic at best and cliché at worst. I don’t want any more — or so I thought before seeing the masterpiece that is “Black Panther.”

Starring Chadwick Boseman as the title character, “Black Panther” follows the tale of T’Challa, a Wakandan prince and secret superhero, ascending the throne following his father’s death. The Marvel audience was introduced to the Black Panther in “Captain America: Civil War,” where he served as a righteous and forgiving voice of reason among squabbling superpersons.

This film had the potential to show a meaningful story filled with beautiful culture that would empower black children around the world, in much the same way that the recent Wonder Woman film did for little girls. And y’all, they did the dang thing.

The only imperfections were the touches of classic Marvel low comedy, which might have been saved by delivery if the actors didn’t look like they were being forced to drop these scenically-disjointed one-liners.

Which is not to say that there was no place for humor in the film. On the contrary, for example, Boseman and Letitia Wright shared delightful, natural moments of comedy in their portrayal of a sibling relationship that was so true to life the audience in my theater couldn’t help but smile.

The music, including compositions by Ludwig Goransson and original songs by Kendrick Lamar, was incredible. The costumes, influenced by the fashions and traditions of real African tribes, were gorgeous. The cinematography showed everything the audience wanted to see without being gratuitous. The villain was righteous and still flawed. The entire film was vibrant and beautifully complex in a way that sets it apart from the drab, gray and uncompelling cinema that Marvel has been churning out for the last three years or so.

Overall, I can only hope that this film is the last piece of the trifecta of successful black-led movies which will finally get Hollywood to open its eyes. Between “Moonlight,” “Get Out” and, now, “Black Panther” the message is clear from the world: we want racially diverse films to thrive. If you don’t believe that last statement, let me just mention that “Black Panther” now sits in fifth place for the biggest grossing domestic opening weekend of all time.

This movie sparkles start to finish with black magic, and I can only hope there will be more like it in the coming years.

Contact the author at sblair13@wou.edu

Photo by: Movies.disney.com

“Three Billboards” wins big at the BAFTAs

Zoë Strickland | Editor-in-Chief

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts held their annual award ceremony on Feb. 18.

According to the BAFTA’s website, the organization hopes to, “bring the very best work in film, games and television to public attention, and support the growth of creative talent in the UK and internationally.”

The most recognized film of the night was by far “Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri.” The film, which originally hit theaters in the United States on Nov. 10, took home five of the nine awards it was nominated for most notably, Best Film and Most Outstanding British Film. “Three Billboards” also took home Best Actress, which was awarded to Frances McDormand for her role as Mildred Hayes and Supporting Actor, which was given to Sam Rockwell for his role as Jason Dixon.

“Blade Runner 2049” and “Darkest Hour” were tied for the second most awards received, both being awarded two of the eight they were nominated for. “Blade Runner 2049” won awards for cinematography and best visual effects. “Darkest Hour” also took home two BAFTA awards. Gary Oldman won Leading Actor for his role as Winston Churchill, and the film was awarded best Makeup and Hair undoubtedly because of the impressive job done with transforming Oldman into Churchill.

“Get Out” actor Daniel Kaluuya was awarded the EE Rising Star Award, which is the only award that the public votes on. According to the BAFTA website, the award “honours a young actor or actress who has demonstrated exceptional talent and ambition and has begun to capture the imagination of the British public.” More recently, Kaluuya also starred as W’Kabi in “Black Panther.”

Other take-homes for the night included “Coco” for Animated Film and “Baby Driver” for Editing.

The next big award show to hit the screens will be on March 4, when the 90th Academy Awards, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, heads to Hollywood. The Oscars will cap off award season until it reopens with the People’s Choice Awards in September.

Contact the author at journaleditor@wou.edu

Photo by: Latimes.com

Review: “Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life”

Ashton Newton | Freelancer

The Wombats first made a name for themselves with their 2007 single “Let’s Dance to the Joy Division,” unafraid to blend high energy music and vocals with dark, real themes. Through their first three albums, they set themselves up as a band that’s relatable and great fun to listen to.

Their newly released fourth album, “Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life” is a bit of a disappointment compared to their previous work. The high energy that The Wombats are known for is still there, but their lyrics and themes fall flat.

The first two singles that The Wombats released off of the album, “Turn” and “Lemon to a Knife Fight” were met with positive critical and fan response, so they generated a lot of buzz for the album, but those two songs are the two most memorable on the entire album. “Lemon to a Knife Fight” is catchy, fast-paced and was an exciting release over the summer. “Turn” takes things a little slower, a song about enjoying the little things. Both songs represented everything great about The Wombats.

The rest of the album still sounds like The Wombats, but I was left feeling like something was missing. They innovated a bit with their sound, this album being much more bass-heavy than their previous work, but I still felt like I’d heard all the themes already in previous songs.

The song “Lethal Combination” simply adds to the growing list of Wombats lyrics about getting blackout drunk. “I Only Wear Black” had me spending the entire three minutes anticipating the end. The imagery of melting ice cream in “Ice Cream” was distracting and took away from the meaning.

There are some positives to the album too. Their bass-heavy songs sound fresh and new with the same energy they’ve had in previous work. “White Eyes” is a fun song that, although the lyrics are a bit cheesy, is catchy and replayable. “Out of My Head” can only be described as groovy, it’s hard not to start moving with the beat.

“I Don’t Know Why I Like You but I Do” is the best mix of meaningful lyrics and catchy music. Being the final song on the album, they definitely end it on a high note, but it’s not enough to make up for the mediocrity that fills most of the album.

There’s something in this album for everybody. If you like The Wombats already, chances are you’ll enjoy the album. If this is the first time you’ve heard of The Wombats, please don’t start here.

Contact the author at anewton15@wou.edu

Photo by: http://thewombats.co.uk/