Mount Hood

Best Netflix Documentaries

Written by: Gretchen Sims

Sometimes, particularly during the fickle spring weather, all homework should be cast aside in favor of a good documentary. After all, what could possibly be better than snuggling up with a blanket — perhaps a cat or two — and a warm beverage of choice to watch the evermore fascinating life of someone else? 

Thankfully, many fantastic options are readily available on popular streaming services. Often, the most significant hurdle between one and their perfect afternoon is all the options to choose from.  

To alleviate a stressful afternoon spent scrolling Netflix for the perfect documentary, here are some of the best, most interesting documentaries to choose from. These will not disappoint. 

TRUE CRIME:

“The Keepers” — This seven-episode series follows the mysterious death of Sister Catherine Cesnik, a teacher at Baltimore’s all-girls Archbishop Keough High School. Former students suspect foul play after a priest is accused of abuse. 

Content Warning: contains mentions of sexual abuse and violence

TV-MA

“Murder Among the Mormons” — This three-episode mini-series details the life of one of the most notorious forgers in history who created fakes that duped The Church of Latter-day Saints. As he begins to feel the law closing in on him, the forger resorts to the unimaginable. 

Content Warning: violence

TV-14

“Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal” — This three-episode mini-series covers the highly mediatized Murdaugh case. After a major blow is made to the Murdaugh family name, an offending family member and his mother are mysteriously found deceased. 

Content Warning: suicide and violence

TV-MA

“Worst Roommate Ever” — Dorothea Puente is an outstanding member of the community. She donates to politicians, rescues kittens and even opens up her home to the less fortunate. Is it possible that something more sinister lurks beneath this grandmotherly facade? Each of the episodes details a different roommate horror story.

Content Warning: violence

TV-MA

CULTS:

“Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey” — This four-episode series focuses on the happenings within the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day church. The documentary gives the unique perspectives of family members and ex-wives of Rulan Jeffs on the Mormon sect under the leadership of Warren Jeffs.  

Content Warning: religious trauma and sexual abuse

TV-MA

“Waco: American Apocalypse” — One of Netflix’s newer documentaries, this three-episode limited series contains real-life footage and interviews with survivors that detail the horrific situation in Waco Texas. FBI hostage negotiation teams clashed with on-ground forces in a way that escalated into the death of hundreds. 

Content Warning: religious trauma, sexual abuse and violence

TV-MA

“Sins of Our Mother” — A loving mother, quickly turned doomsday believer, is willing to follow her new religion to unbelievable ends. This three-episode series takes a deep dive into a popular case.

Content Warning: religious trauma, violence

TV-14

“One of Us” — This documentary follows three Hasidic Jews and their journey to leave a very restrictive Jewish sect. With little to no education, these people must fight for their place in the outside world.

Content Warning: religious trauma

TV-14

THOUGHT-PROVOKING:

“13th” — This thought-provoking documentary forces its audience to take another look at the American prison system. 

Content Warning: discusses racism and difficult topics

TV-MA

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Revenge is Best Served Raw

Written by:  Mikayla Coleman

Released on Netflix Apr. 6, the 10-episode drama mini-series “Beef” has been taking the world by storm. The series, created by Lee Sung Jin, stars Steven Yeun as Danny Cho, Ali Wong as Amy Lau and David Choe as Isaac Cho. 

The series follows Danny Cho, a struggling contractor, and Amy Lau, a prestigious business owner, as their worlds collide and implode after a particularly spicy road rage incident between the two. Instead of setting things aside and moving on as most typically would, both characters allow the incident to fester into a bitter feud that completely takes over their professional and personal lives — putting everything and everyone in jeopardy. 

The two main characters’ lives could not be more different. The show begins by depicting Danny struggling to maintain his contracting business and cohabitating with his younger brother in a small apartment. 

Amy Lau is on the cusp of a major business deal that will allow her to sell her small business and finally be able to enjoy the luxury that she has worked hard for. Amy has a young daughter and a mildly famous husband, known for being the son of a famous Japanese artist. While Amy seems to have the “better” life, it becomes clear throughout the series that money truly cannot buy happiness. Amy is painstakingly choosing to be surrounded by many tone-deaf members of the one percent — earnestly trying to ignore the blatant philosophical and ethical differences between herself and those close to her. 

And despite the money that Lau has access to, there is a major parallel between both Danny and Amy — their utter, bitter unhappiness. This common thread of struggle weaves the two together in a beautiful melancholy throughout the entire series and ultimately brings them together when they are both at their lowest. 

Most episodes begin by displaying paintings by David Choe, carrying heavy visual metaphors and symbolism for what is to come. The seething energy that is present between these two characters, along with several deviations and side plots, makes every minute captivating. 

9.5/10.

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Songs for Fan Girls

Written by Juliana Tinker, Addie Floyd and Caitlin Quirk.

“Burning Love” — Elvis Presley

“Satellite” — Harry Styles

“right where you left me” — Taylor Swift

“The River” — Daisy Jones & The Six

“Moves” — Suki Waterhouse

“Tutti Frutti” — Little Richard

“Thunder Road” — Bruce Springsteen

“Dive” — Olivia Dean

“Silver Springs (Live)” — Fleetwood Mac

“Ceiling” — Lizzy McAlpine

“I know it won’t work” — Gracie Abrams

“What A Time” — Julie Michaels, Niall Horan

“Jailhouse Rock” — Elvis Presley

“Ever Since New York” — Harry Styles

“Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve” — Taylor Swift

“Dancing with Myself” — Billy Idol

“American Girl” — Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

“The Oogum Boogum Song” — Brenton Wood



WOU Art Galleries Spring into Action

Written by: Gretchen Sims

April has been an eventful month for Western Oregon University Art Galleries. With works displayed in the Cannon Art Gallery, Instructional Technology Center, Hamersly Library and the Werner University Center, one can enjoy so much art across campus. From student artists to seasoned vets, the exhibits put on by the WOU Art Galleries are a staple in the community here at Western. 

These are the current art exhibits hosted by Western and the dates that they will be here. Be sure to check them out before they’re gone. 

Walk This Way — Composed by the artists of Living Studios in Corvallis, OR, this exhibit features “artwork made for art’s sake.” Living Studios gives a creative outlet to adults experiencing intellectual or developmental disabilities. The artists’ detail-oriented works present art the way it “should” be — everything everyone thinks it’s not. 

This colorful and engaging exhibition runs through May 5 in the Cannon Gallery of Art. Check out this exhibit Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. 

Islanded (no more) — This exhibition captures the experience of what it’s like to be LGBTQ+ in America through the photography of those living it. A three photo series and five short films by Carl Collison are featured in the Hamersly Library Exhibit on the second floor. The works document the LGBTQ+ experience through both horrific queerphobic violence, but also the hope many find in the future. 

This moving exhibit runs through Apr. 30 and can be viewed any time the library is open. 

Picturing America — On the third floor of the Hamersly Library, this collection of works showcases the talented Gregory Poulin. This is a continuation of his ongoing series which finds inspiration in exploring a diverse group of individuals and their outlook on America today. 

This collection will be available until May 3 and can be viewed any time the library is open.

Rotating Senior Art Exhibit — Every month, a new senior from the Art & Design Program showcases their work in the Werner University Center Exhibit. This is a chance for students to show off their talents and express themselves through their art. 

This month, the student artist is Morgan Amerson whose exhibit “Color Me Surprised” will be available for viewing until May 6. Stop by Monday-Thursday between 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. or Friday between 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For any questions, contact Gallery Director Paula Booth at boothp@wou.edu

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Interview with Aisia Carrillo

Written by:  Gretchen Sims

This month’s senior artist is Aisia Carrillo. Carrillo explores the theme of connection through exploration in their exhibit “The Journey of Exploration.” Carrillo states that, “As a student exploration of medium and message has been a large part of my work.” 

Being able to see the connectivity between art and personal experience can enable an artist to engage with and better entrance their viewers. 

Carrillo’s mediums help represent their message. The charcoal drawings that open this exhibit represent the message that Carrillo hopes to display. The exhibit then transitions into beautifully colored paintings that embody how color can add to the message of the pieces. Finally, the exhibit ends with yarned pieces that draw connectivity between all of the works. 

Carrillo masterfully uses their works to showcase the range of mediums in art as well as an exploration of subject matter.  

Q: What does art mean to you?

A: Art to me is a form of expression that enables me to show everyone how I see the world.

Q: What first got you interested in art?

A: I can not remember what first got me interested in art all I remember is asking my parents for art supplies when I was very young.

Q: What would you like others to take from your art?
A: I would like others to be able to feel something when they see my art. Whether it is good or bad I seek to invoke an emotion.

Q: What inspires you?

A: I am inspired by the world around me and everyday life. I am constantly thinking of new ideas and pictures of things I can make whether I’m driving or reading a good book. 

Q: What is your “why?” (what makes you the artist you are today)

A: My why is the challenge. I love a challenge and art allows me to challenge myself and push myself to be better every day.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Discovering Connection

Written by: Nicholas Sarysz

For years now, and especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, much of the human connection our societies were built off of has been lost; and each day it feels like society has been driven further and further apart. 

Most of the focus within the news and other popular media outlets is all of the negative encounters we find ourselves in. While it is important to be cautious in every situation, it is also important to Discover Connection, which is the goal of the YouTube Channel under that exact title.

The channel explores the power of human connection with the mission of educating, inspiring and empowering people to help make our world a happier and healthier place. The channel’s producer, Brad, is a Canadian storyteller that works on the channel with a few friends. Brad not only explains the power of connection but displays it through the videos he creates. 

He started the channel back in September 2018, leaving his parent’s home in Nova Scotia and hitchhiking all the way to Vancouver, spanning 29 days and 5800 km. 

Throughout his documentation of the journey, Brad made connections and friends by interacting with complete strangers in unfamiliar areas, which is something that many of us would find impossible.

Fast forward to today, and Brad is doing the same thing with his friend Liam, this time through the United States. They are not only hitchhiking across the entire country, but they are doing everything solely off the kindness of strangers. This means that all of their transportation, meals and lodging were provided by people they had never previously met. While this concept leads to plenty of awkward interactions, it leads to far more incredible connections that can be heartwarming to a viewer behind a screen.

Currently, the series, which they titled “I Crossed America with $0” is on its eighth episode, with the 10th episode finale scheduled to release during the last weekend of April. Not only is the series genuinely entertaining, but it does an excellent job of highlighting just how special human connection truly is. Each person they connect with is unique and shows care and compassion in vastly different ways. 

The series does an amazing job of showing just how different life is for each of us and how cultural context and our experiences impact everyone differently.

All in all, the series is an inspiring, thought-provoking experience that requires an open mind. It is a must-watch.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

“Love is blind” is problematic

Written by: Gretchen Sims

Content warning: contains spoilers about “Love is Blind”

 

The Netflix reality TV show “Love is Blind” has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Now amassing four seasons with no end in sight, “Love is Blind” is undisputedly a riveting concept and has captivated fans around the globe. 

The social experiment this show revolves around poses the question of whether or not people can put aside their physical preferences and fall in love without being able to see the other person. In order to accomplish this, the participants are put into “pods” where they can hear the person on the other side but can not see them. People are shuffled around between different dates in these pods until the man proposes. After this, the couples are tested in the real world to determine whether or not love is blind. 

This show fulfills all the drama cravings one could ever have, and yet it begs the question… is this just an innocent escape from reality, or does it have deeper and more concerning implications? 

One of the most obvious concerns about “Love is Blind” is the demographic of the participants. Participants are straight, heterosexual couples that pursue traditional gender roles in their relationships. The show does not shy away from this and, in fact, often leans into harmful stereotypes. 

In season three, Nancy Rodriguez says, “I would be a great mom to like, 10 kids. My ovaries are dancing,” after meeting a potential fiance in the pods. All of the women on the show want large families and often express how they cannot wait to start popping babies out. 

Men in the third installment of the show exuded toxicity. From saying no at the altar due to his fiance’s professional opinion on abortion, to threatening a breakup because his fiance stayed out too late, all the way to telling his fiance that eating two tangerines all day would spoil her appetite for dinner, men in the third season of the “Love is Blind” franchise were always coming up with new ways to subject the women to emotional trauma.

After the third season, the “preditors,” producers slash editors, decided to even things out by making the women the drama in season four. This switch was very obvious and left viewers wondering if this act was an intentional way to even the playing field in response to backlash caused by the unhealthy relationship dynamics presented in season three. 

Adding to the absurd drama, the cups that the contestants of “Love is Blind” drink from are metal — preventing the audience from seeing how much, or what, is inside them. In many instances, contestants talk about the type of alcohol that they are drinking, and, it can be deduced from many of the contestants’ actions, that they are drinking heavily. While heightened emotions can make very good reality TV, it probably isn’t the best idea to decide to marry someone in a month while under the influence. 

Oh yes, and then there’s that. Choosing to spend the rest of your life with someone is a huge deal and, arguably, one month isn’t enough time to make that decision. 

Many members of the “Love is Blind” cast do fall in love, but they are unable to follow through with it when it comes to the wedding day due to indecision. A good example is SK and Raven in season three and Micah and Paul in season four. Perhaps, given more time, these relationships could have worked out. 

Many people can agree that drama-filled shows are their guilty pleasure, so before sitting down for a fifth season, be sure to think about the emotional toll these participants are experiencing as well as the relationship precedent it is setting for its viewers. 

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu 

Mario movie madness

Written by: Mikayla Coleman

Content warning: this article contains spoilers for “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” 

Despite having a rating of only 57% on Rotten Tomatoes, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” has taken audiences by storm. 

The movie debuted in theaters on Apr. 5, starring many notable actors such as Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Seth Rogan as Donkey Kong, Chris Pratt as Mario — and the true star of the show — Jack Black as Bowser. 

One of the most admirable things about “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” is that it transcends generations. No matter how one has been exposed to the world of Super Mario Bros., via old-school arcade games, Nintendo Gamecube or a console as new as the Nintendo Switch, there are many references scattered throughout the film to keep one entertained. 

The movie begins in the tangible world of Brooklyn, New York as brothers Mario and Luigi attempt to make a living by working as a plumbing duo. After having a less-than-stellar first customer experience, the brothers set out to prove themselves by saving Brooklyn from a city-wide plumbing disaster. In the process, Mario and Luigi are transported into different worlds through a big green pipe where they are separated from one another. Luigi ends up in the Dark Lands which are under the control of Bowser. Mario ends up in Mushroom Kingdom where he joins forces with Toad and Princess Peach to find his lost brother. Many critics feel that the plot was thin or lack-luster, but with its target audience being young children and those who were fans of the games as kids, I feel that a simplistic and easy-to-follow story line was warranted. 

If one is attending the movie to experience the nostalgia of the early 2000’s Super Mario franchise in all of its glory, and is also of the legal drinking age, it is my opinion that this movie is best experienced slightly inebriated. 

The film is filled with intricate imagery inspired by the games, paired with an amazingly immersive soundtrack. Overall, I think the movie was far better than expected and I had a blast seeing it in theaters, even as a 21-year-old. 

9/10.

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Senior sessions

Written by:  Jude Bokovoy

For the graduating senior class, the time has come where many get professional pictures taken to commemorate the milestone and to share with friends and family. There is more time and effort put into the act than one may think. Although it is mid April, many graduates have been overwhelmed with the feeling that it might be too late to schedule with a local photographer. Whether or not this is true or one already has a grasp on the process, here are some things to keep in mind.

The photographer — Look into one’s options, friends, family or a professional photographer. No matter who it is, think about the pictures that one truly wants. Think about the style of photography. Does one want them to be highly edited, bright and crisp? These are some of the many aspects to think about when selecting a photographer.

Time frame — Now that caps and gowns are in one’s hands, so is the timing of the photoshoot. Weather, flowers and atmosphere vary within the months leading up to graduation. Make sure to look into the best time to take photos to determine what lighting will be best. 

Tester photoshoot — Instead of relying on one person on one day to grant one all of their graduation photo desires, take matters into one’s own hands. Doing a tester photoshoot beforehand can ensure what poses and outfits are best before the big day. 

People one is taking pictures with — Does one want to have photos with a few of their closest friends or take it on solo? Either way, make sure it is what one wants to do. It’s not anyone else’s decision to make. As long as one is happy with the photos that could be on one’s professional desk for decades, that is all that matters.

Locations — What campus locations are meaningful? Is it where one took their favorite classes? Or where one spent time with friends? Wherever it may be, make sure to include them in one’s photoshoot. 

Graduation day — There are plenty of opportunities to take photos at graduation. This is the perfect time to take photos with friends if they did a solo photoshoot. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Abby’s House takes part in #30daysfoSAAM

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

Content warning: includes mentions of assault and violence

This year, in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Abby’s House is demonstrating support for survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault through a month-long series of events. In previous years, these events stretched out across a span of months. However, Abby’s House is integrating the events alongside a month of observance. 

“The Clothesline Project” was the first event to arrive at Western for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The project consisted of an interactive information table in the Werner University Center, as well as a display of an array of t-shirts across the ceiling. 

The display spotlighted a few very raw and honest confessions of assault, while many other expressions remarked about key elements of consent and self-love, such as: “Nobody is an object” and “You are whole, beautiful, and deserving of love.” The shirts are designed by survivors, allies and their loved ones.

There is a purpose and rationale behind the color and number of the t-shirts, as each color represents a different type of violence and assault. 

In the grand display at Utah Valley University, the following are represented: white for the people who have died due to violence and assault; yellow for survivors of physical assault and domestic abuse; purple for the people attacked because of sexual orientation; red, pink and orange for survivors of rape or childhood sexual abuse; brown and gray for survivors of emotional, spiritual or verbal abuse; and blue and green for survivors of incest or childhood sexual abuse.

“The Clothesline Project” was not the sole new event to arrive at Western for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. On the evening of Apr. 16, Abby’s House hosted an independent event for students identifying as survivors of violence or assault, advocating for self-care and self-love in a time of healing. The event featured guest speaker, Laura Hasbun of Maracuya Botanicals. 

Additionally, “The Bandana Project” — an awareness campaign aimed to address the issue of sexual assault among farmworker women — was one of the projects to be featured for the month. 

On Apr. 18, Abby’s House set up an information table about “The Bandana Project,” including a display of bandanas decorated by students. The display can be found near the North entrance of the Werner University Center.

“Denim Day” — which is occurring on Apr. 26 — was established in Los Angeles in 1990 by Patricia Giggins to observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This day encourages supporters and survivors alike to demonstrate their solidarity by wearing denim with a purpose. 

On Apr. 27, Abby’s House is to host one of the more widely observed events at Western: “Take Back The Night.” This event is an annual rally and speak-out against sexual and domestic violence stretching out in movements across colleges and universities in the country. 

This year, the rally is featuring a speaker and candlelight march, as well as student testimonials. Participants are encouraged to share their voices through readings of poems and healing stories.

For more information on the remaining events for the month, as well as their scheduled times, check out the Abby’s House Instagram at @abbyshouse_wou. 

The observance month may be finite, but Abby’s House always encourages everyone and anyone to advocate for victims of sexual and physical violence and assault. 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

AI may not be as scary as it seems

Written by: Nicholas Sarysz

Most people will never be able to fully understand the scope of what artificial intelligence does because we don’t have attention spans that last any longer than a low-effort TikTok. 

Years ago, the idea of robots doing work for humans felt like a far-out euphoric concept. Today, most of us are scared of it. The concept of Artificial Intelligence, commonly referred to as AI, and how far it has come within the past couple of years has been discussed endlessly, but that is because it is still in its beginning stages.

The diminishment of jobs, uncertainty and the often overplayed “robot takeover” are all reasons for concern, but the fact of the matter is, we aren’t doing anything of great value anyway. 

Just look at this country, we fight over “job” creation that has people pumping gas or working in coal mines, pick our leaders from two separate sides of the same rotten tree that we call politics and point fingers at each other while the economy continues to plummet. These are just a few issues within our own borders because issues outside of that aren’t even civil enough to poke fun at.

Put simply, Artificial Intelligence is scary to us because other humans have access to it. So much of the public finds themselves worked up about how we can stop AI from helping students plagiarize homework, how to watermark AI deep fakes or art pieces or how we can limit access to AI overall. Public conversations surrounding the topic have begun to focus on how we can dumb down the software to limit our own shortcomings, rather than improve it to make headway on serious issues that AI assistance can be beneficial to. 

Almost every single one of these issues is not truly a matter of Artificial Intelligence, they are people issues. Artificial Intelligence is a tool, and just like every tool, it has multiple uses, many of which can be negative. Take motorized saws for example, we would not be as far along as a civilization if it was not for them and their evolution from simple blades to rotary tools. If we tried to keep saws as simple as we could for human safety, present-day commercial construction would be merely impossible.

For now, there is little reason to do anything more than be cautious and enjoy the funny videos of politicians playing Minecraft. As we navigate the future of Artificial Intelligence, let’s not forget that we hold the power to shape its impact on society.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Instrumental beats

Written by: Gretchen Sims

“Satellites” — Cavement

“Out For a Walk” — Same as Different

“Sidewalking” — Jazzdroid

“humify” — hope mona

“When You’re Gone” — Piano Guys

“Purple love” — Discant Of Venus

“Titanium – David Guetta” — Eklipse

“Happy Ending” — rjoseph

“A Thousand Miles” — Josh Vietti

“Travel by Night” — Itsuju

“Time After Time” — Celestial Aeon Project

“All of Me” — The Piano Guys

“For the Love of a Princess” — 2CELLOS

“Soul Dreaming” — Zmeyev, flowless

“Afterglow” — AWL

“Close To You” — Tang Jia

“Curious” — Lushi

“The Martian Nextdoor” — Keyser

“10,000 Hours (Instrumental Version)” — Laura Sullivan 

“Pirates of the Caribbean” — 2CELLOS

“Angel of Music” — Laclede Quartet

“All I Ask of You” — Laclede Quartet 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Ghibli in theater

Written by: Gretchen Sims

Anime fans across campus listen up. It is everyone’s dream to go back in time and be able to watch their favorite anime for the first time all over again. What if one is now able to achieve the next best thing?

Studio Ghibli movies are often a staple, almost a gateway drug, for most anime fans — usually the first film an experienced viewer will recommend to an anime viewer. These heartwarming films may even be a core memory in many childhoods. What if the fantasy of traveling back in time to watch one’s favorite Studio Ghibli film for the first time is practically achievable?

Fathom Events, a leader in the entertainment industry and a top distributor of content to movie theaters, hosts an annual Studio Ghibli Fest to showcase all the groundbreaking films by Hayao Miyazaki. This Fest is meant to celebrate the ongoing impact that Studio Ghibli continues to have on the animation industry. These unique and beautiful animes are beloved by fans across the world.

This year, Studio Ghibli Fest 2023 is showing at local cinemas. Here is a list of one’s favorite Studio Ghibli films that one can attend as well as their showing times.

“SPIRITED AWAY: Live on Stage” — April 23 and 27

“Ponyo 15th Anniversary” — May 7, 8 and 10

“Kiki’s Delivery Service” — June 11, 12 and 14 

“Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” — July 9 and 11

“Castle in the Sky” — July 10 and 12

“Princess Mononoke” — Aug. 5, 7, 8 and 9

“Porco Rosso” — Aug. 20 and 22

“The Wind Rises 10th Anniversary” — Aug. 21 and 23

“Howl’s Moving Castle” — Sept. 23, 24, 25 and 27

“Spirited Away” — Oct. 28, 29, 30, 31 and Nov. 1

Showings may either be in Japanese with English subtitles or dubbed. Depending on one’s preference, be sure to check out these showings in a theater near you or visit Fathom Event’s Studio Ghibli Fest homepage at fathomevents.com/series/studio-ghibli-fest.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Spring reads

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Reading gives one the ability to relax, calm the mind, enhance their vocabulary and learn depending on the book. Start this spring off fresh with a new book and reading spot. Fellow students gave suggestions on what to read and ideal reading locations now that the sunshine is out. 

Books

“The Pilot’s Wife” by Anita Shreve — A widow searches for an answer to why her late husband’s plane crashed. Was it an accident, intentional, or even worse?

“Verity” by Colleen Hover — A struggling writer accepts an exciting yet unusual job offer to get her out of her financial burden. 

“How Will You Measure Your Life” by Clayton Christensen — This book will show one how to maintain motivation at work, find happiness in the world and shift one’s focus to what is truly important.

“So Good They Can’t Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love” by Cal Newport — Western Oregon University Center for Professional Pathways book of the month is about finding appreciation within your work, instead of searching for work that fits your current passions. It often begs the question: is one’s mindset “what can this job offer me” or “what can I offer the world?”

Places to read in Monmouth, Corvallis or Salem. 

Parks — Take a moment to breathe in the fresh air, soak in some sunshine and read a good book. This could be on a park bench, in front of a view or on a blanket alongside a picnic. Parks not too far from campus include Riverview Park, Madrona Park, Bush’s Pasture Park, Riverfront City Park, Avery Park & Natural Area and the Riverfront Commemorative Park. 

Cafes and bakeries — What’s better than reading in a relaxing space while drinking or eating a handmade good? Sip and skim at these nearby cafes and bakeries: The Sippery, Starbucks, Rick’s Place, Brew Coffee & Taphouse, Panera Bread, Ovenbird Bakery, Karma Coffee Bar & Bakery and New Morning Bakery.

Libraries — Why not go to the home of books? Libraries on and off the Western campus include the Hamersly Library, Salem Public Library and the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Video essay recommendations

Written by: Mikayla Coleman

In an ever changing and expanding digital space of content creation, the video essay has become a staple genre on video-sharing websites such as Youtube. 

A video essay is an essay in video form that aims to persuade, educate or critique and analyze a specific topic, theme, person or thesis. This open-ended definition leaves a lot of freedom for creators to artistically express themselves and their opinions in a unique way that can be as academic or as casual as one desires. 

Use this list as a jumping off point for getting into the diverse, fascinating and passionate world of video essays on Youtube.

Ro Rambdin — Ro Rambdin is a 20 year old Tiktok and Youtube influencer from Seattle, Washington who creates incisive commentary videos on a wide variety of subjects pertaining to present and past youth-cultural events. 

  • “Do We Need S*x Scenes? – Penn Badgley and Intimacy in Media” 
  • “Elon Musk and Grimes: A Retrospective” 
  • “Chick Tracts: An American Tragedy” 

Philosophy Tube — Created in 2013 by Abigail Thorn, a British content creator and playwright. , Philosophy Tube seeks to provide free lessons in philosophy after the 2012 increase of tuition in the United Kingdom. Thorn’s videos are inquisitive, hilariously scripted and visually interesting with different elaborate costumes and sets to match each video’s contents. Thorn has also documented their story of coming out as transgender and uses their platform to advocate for better health care and treatment of transgender people around the globe. 

  • “The Rich Have Their Own Ethics: Effective Altruism & the Crypto Crash (ft. F1nn5ter)”

  • “I Emailed My Doctor 133 Times: The Crisis In the British Healthcare System”

  • “Capital Punishment (& Prison Abolition) | Philosophy Tube”

Mina Le — Mina Le is a Vietnamese-American content creator whose work focuses on modern and historical culture of fashion and film. Le’s unique style dominates her videos, making the viewing experience not only intellectually stimulating, but incredibly visually appealing.  

  • “THE CULT OF CLEANLINESS” 

  • “‘toxic’ femininity: what’s up with girlbloggers, female manipulators, and femcels?”

  • “WHY EVERYTHING IS SO UGLY: The Curse of Modernism” 

Izzzyzzz — Internet personality Izzzyzzz, or simply Izzy, is a New Zealand-based video essayist who creates videos on modern and historical internet culture, pertaining mostly to childhood nostalgia. Izzy lightheartedly uses a combination of both subjects to deep dive into niche experiences of growing up while internet usage became more accessible, allowing viewers to be once again immersed in the fun and often-times clunky experiences of early 2000’s computer games and internet culture. 

  • “Exploring the Lore of Purble Place” 
  • “The Horror of Anti-Piracy Screens” 
  • “A Deep Dive into Animal Crossing” 

The Leftist Cooks — Formerly named “The Leftist Cook,” The Leftist Cooks is a collaborative Youtube channel between Irish creators Neil Farrell and Sarah Oeffler focusing primarily on leftist topics, including but not limited to LGBT+ and gender issues, workplace conditions and personal near-death experiences. 

  • “This is Not a Video Essay” 
  • “Polyamory and the Family” 
  • “Capitalism and the Body” 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu







Spring bops

Written by: Mikayla Coleman

“Spring Has Sprung” — Skegss

“Back Pocket” — Vulfpeck, Vulf

“Hutch” — Barrie

“Don’t Trust Me” — the booyah! Kids

“Where’d All the Time Go?” — Dr. Dog

“Golden” — Hippo Campus

“A Bird’s Last Look” — Macabre Plaza

“Cinnamon” — Palehound

“Back in Your Own Back Yard” — Sun Ra

“Vacation” — Honeywhip

“Running Wide Open” — Coma Cinema 

“Afternoon Of A Swan” — Speedy West

“Over the Hill” — Ginger Root

“Ladyfingers” — Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass

“Oh, Pretty Woman” — Pomplamoose 

“Morning” — Azymuth 

“Prism” — Say She She 

“The Flower Called Nowhere” — Stereolab 

“Masterpiece” — Big Thief

“Linger” — The Cranberries 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

 

Sequel equals

Wrtten by: Gretchen Sims

A tale as old as time, a classic — but what happened before, or after, one’s favorite films? This is where sequels and prequels come in. Normally occurring in groups of three, movie franchises are becoming increasingly popular among filmmakers. 

Nearly every movie that does well at the box office is followed up with one or two movies that extend the storyline. However, it is well known that these sequels and prequels rarely live up to the original fan favorite. So are these additional movies just a cash grab for producers? Or are they genuinely produced with the writers and directors passion and with the fans in mind? 

Many larger movie-producing corporations have been repeatedly slammed for this. Producers can easily profit off of nostalgia and love that fans have for their favorite movies, though without living up to fans expectations. From a producing perspective, this can be seen as a win-win. Making a sequel to a popular movie is a fantastic way to make money and make sure fans are eating out of their hands. 

So why has there been so much backlash about these franchises? 

Mainly because the sequels and prequels are usually terrible. Not only are producers making these movies to turn an easy profit, but they also don’t seem to care about the quality of the film. No matter how terrible the movie is, fans will go see it.

However, audiences might be in for a significant change. Due to new streaming sites, it is becoming increasingly more difficult for companies to release low quality sequels and get away with it. Now that physical movie theaters are becoming less popular and many movies are released directly to Netflix, HBO Max and Disney+, producers can not rely on box office sales for their cash grab. If audiences hear a sequel is bad, they simply won’t watch it. 

While sequels in the past have been disappointing fans for decades, this trend may be coming to an end. As long as sequels lose their profitability, franchises will be prolonged in a way that excites fans and keeps them wanting more. Hopefully, the cash cow that fuels sequels will benefit both filmmakers and fans in the near future. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu   

Pedro Pascal, daddy of all

Written by: Gretchen Sims

By now, the entirety of the internet is aware that Pedro Pascal has been appointed the daddy of the internet. From memes to interviews, Pedro Pascal has seemingly appeared out of nowhere to grace his fandom with wild performances and out-of-pocket comments. Where has this daddy-ness come from? And why has Pedro Pascal gained so many children seemingly overnight? 

Pascal has been in the acting business for quite some time now. José Pedro Balmaceda Pascal was born in Chile in 1975 and worked small acting gigs for nearly two decades before rising to stardom with his portrayal of Oberyn Martell in “Game of Thrones.”  

Pascal also amassed fame for his role in the Netflix series “Narcos” before taking on his most popular roles as the Mandalorian in “The Mandalorian” and “The Book of Boba Fett,” as well as Joel Miller in “The Last of Us.” 

According to Pascal, his parents Verónica Pascal Ureta and José Balmaceda Riera, were devout followers of the socialist president, Salvador Allende. Their activity in the resistance against Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship led Pascal’s family to flee Chile when Pedro was just nine months old. Ultimately the Balmaceda’s would end up in Orange County, California.

Pascal was a competitive swimmer before he developed a love for acting and ended up attending the Orange County School of the Arts where he graduated from in 1993. Afterwards, he continued his education at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts — graduating in 1997 — to begin his acting career. 

In 1995, Pascal’s father was indicted by a federal grand jury due to a scandal at the fertility clinic he was employed at. Shortly after, the rest of Pascal’s family returned to Chile where his mother ended up committing suicide in 1999 — Pascal was his mother’s family name that Pedro took on professionally to honor her.  

Early on, Pascal worked smaller gigs in well known TV franchises such as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “The Mentalist,” “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “The Good Wife,” “Homeland” and “Graceland,” before making his big break in “Game of Thrones.” 

Besides acting, Pascal has written and produced works as well. He even performed on Broadway — debuting in “King Lear” in Feb. 2019. 

In the end, his charismatic personality and ability to maintain relevance among younger generations — despite his age — has made audiences everywhere fall in love with him, waiting to see what he will do next.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Celebrating women through novel and film

Written by:Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

March is Women’s History Month — a time dedicated to the celebration of the contributions, triumphs and progress of women throughout history. To celebrate, here is a list of recommendations for movies and novels featuring many of the beloved and strong female characters of generations.

Films

“Hidden Figures” (2016) — The story of the three genius African-American mathematicians who turned the tides of the space race. The movie was inspired by the New York Times bestseller novel of the same title.

“Lady Bird” (2017) — “Lady Bird” follows the life of a spontaneous high school senior, as she navigates a tremulous relationship with her equally ardent and strong willed mother. 

“Wonder Woman” (2017) — A remarkable movie detailing the consequences and loss faced by war, through the eyes of the Amazonian warrior, Wonder Woman.

“The Woman King” (2022) — Based on a true story, “The Woman King” tells the story of the tribe of female warriors, Agojie.

“Frida” (2002) — “Frida” details the real story of iconic and surrealist Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo.

“Crazy Rich Asians” (2018) — Based on the worldwide bestselling novel by Kevin Kwan, the movie centers around Rachel Ru — a native New Yorker — as she navigates the relationship between her and her long-time boyfriend’s East Asian family.

“Jackie” (2016) — A movie that tells the tragic story of the United States’ First Lady, Jackie Kennedy, after the death of her husband.

“Legally Blond” (2001) — Based on the novel of the same name by Amanda Brown, this film journeys through Elle Woods’ life, the sorority girl and aspiring lawyer at Harvard Law School.

Books

“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott — A coming-of-age story following the lives of four sisters, Amy, Beth, Jo and Meg as they learn about love, strength and womanhood.

“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas — A young woman grapples with identity, racism and discrimination after witnessing the fatal shooting of a childhood friend at the hands of police.

“The Radium Girls” by Kate Moore — A novel detailing the incredible yet tragic true story of the “Radium Girls,” the female factory workers who contracted radiation poisoning as a result of corporate greed.

“The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood — “The Handmaid’s Tale” details the story of a woman forced to live as a concubine in a futuristic world struggling with a fertility crisis.

“The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by Victoria E. Schwab — This fiction novel details the story of a young woman who makes a deal with the “devil,” which begins her endless journey through time.

“I’m Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy — The debut memoir by Jennete McCurdy, as she details her struggles as a former child actress, demonstrating resilience and strength through mentality.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Kyra Marcotte shows how art gives a second chance

Written by: Gretchen Sims

The featured senior artist for the month of March is Kyra Marcotte. “Revive,” the exhibit in the Werner University Center, is the result of a renewal of passion in Marcotte, as an aspiring teacher turned artist explores their turmoil and joy in a post-pandemic world. 

Q: What does art mean to you?

A: “To me, art is self-expression, in a way that you don’t have to conform to society’s rules and expectations. Even though you can go to school and study the principles of design and composition (which are still very important), you can break free from them and explore infinite ideas and realities. And to me that is really beautiful, especially in a world that has so much pressure and expectations thrown on you from an early age.”

Q: What first got you interested in art?

A: “I never thought I wanted to be an art major or do anything in art. But my love for art was actually first sparked in middle school, when I met my best friend Precious. They always carried a sketchbook with them everywhere and they inspired me to do that as well. I didn’t realize until college that I wanted to pursue a career in the arts, but they were the one to spark that passion in me.”

Q: What would you like others to take from your art?

A: “The main takeaway I want people to get from my art is the healing and therapeutic power of art. During the pandemic, creating these pieces helped keep me sane, and helped me process what was going on around me. I went from feeling lost and hopeless to seeing a bright future ahead of me. I used art to create a new life for myself.”

Q: What inspires you?

A: “I take a lot of inspiration from existing media around me. I love finding found images/videos and creating something new. Two of the videos in my show were made using found footage, that I edited together to create a new meaning. Same with the magazine collages. I love how taking multiple images/videos from different sources and putting them together can create something more interesting with more depth, but yet is also slightly jarring. I hope when people see these collages I created, they question what the deeper meaning is created by putting them together.” 

Q: What is your “why”? (what makes you the artist you are today)

A: “Self expression is extremely important to me. And my artwork is my favorite way to express who I am as a person and communicate that to the people around me. Through art, I can communicate myself through bright colors and interesting textures, and that brings me joy that is hard to match.”

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

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