Mount Hood

Excessive amounts of biopics

Written by: Lili Minato | Freelancer

In the past year alone, 17 biopics were released in movie theaters and on major streaming services. The most notable of them is, “Oppenheimer,” which is currently nominated for 13 Oscars. Now, in 2024, new biopics are playing in theaters, including: “Bob Marley: One Love,” as well as the trailer for, “Back to Black,” a film about the life of Amy Winehouse. 

Many of the upcoming blockbuster films fall under the category of biographical movies, including a recently announced four-film series about The Beatles. Theaters everywhere are currently being overrun with these biographical retellings. 

Biopics are a genre that attracts a very specific audience. Most films during this day and age attempt to appeal to all viewers, which can cause the movie to fall flat. Biographical films attract an audience that is interested in the people, or person, that the film is about; rather than having to worry about reaching a large audience, the directors only need to worry about making a mediocre film and disappointing the fans. 

By making a film about a subject with adoring and intrigued fans, directors are almost guaranteed a box office hit. They simply have to hire the right actors and writers to depict an accurate story. There is little creativity needed to share the life of another person. 

Biopics are easier to make compared to an original story with an original script and there is less risk. Even if the film doesn’t end up being well-loved, most people will still go to theaters to see their favorite historical figure on the big screen. 

This is the reason for the constant output of biopics. There will always be famous and notable people to make movies about, and there will always be an audience for them. Original scripts and stories don’t have the safety net of a premade story featuring a well-known figure. 

These biographical films will never stop being produced; people will continue to die and movies will continue to be made. While these films hold some substance for sharing the lives of misunderstood individuals who didn’t have a voice like Priscilla Presley in, “Priscilla,” most biopics continue to reshare over-told stories of famous personalities. 

Biopics have their purpose in our society, but after a while, they will soon become old and overused. 

Contact the author at lminato22@mail.wou.edu. 

Upcoming Frankenstein films

Written by: Lili Minato | Freelancer

Content warning: this article contains mentions of suicide

The iconic story of “Frankenstein” has been retold upwards of 114 times through the artistic media of film, the first recorded example being a movie by the same name made in 1910. Now, there are two new “Frankenstein” adaptations coming to the big screen in the upcoming year and a “Frankenstein”-inspired film that is up for an Academy Award. 

These three movies all follow the general themes and plot of “Frankenstein,” while also bringing their own original ideas to the table. From original stories to stylistic elements and cinematography, the classic story continues to spark new life in these adaptations. 

“Poor Things” is an artistic blockbuster that premiered in December of 2023. The story, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, follows a suicidal pregnant woman — played by Emma Stone — who is resurrected with her brain switched with the underdeveloped brain of her unborn child. She then goes on to explore the world through those new set of eyes. 

While not technically a publicized reproduction of the original story, it takes many elements from the stereotypical depictions of “Frankenstein” — a mad scientist and the resurrection of a new organic creature as well as the exploration and the understanding of society by said creature. The connections to the original Mary Shelley novel are abundant. 

The upcoming film, “Lisa Frankenstein,” takes a different approach to the generic recurring plot points of past “Frankenstein” adaptations. Described as a “coming of rage love story” by IMDb, the plot consists of a teenager in the 80s bringing a corpse — who happens to be her crush — back from the dead. They go on a joint mission to find missing body parts which results in murder, love and possibly happiness.

Even though this isn’t a completely original retelling of the novel, the film seems to be taking on something new with a campy and gothic style that will be loved by younger and older audiences alike. 

Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein,” is a remake of the 1931 classic by the same name. From what the public knows, this film doesn’t seem to stray as far from the original story compared to the other two films mentioned. 

However, audiences shouldn’t expect another repetitive “Frankenstein” movie — del Toro’s past films should inspire viewers to still expect an elevated level of beautiful, stylistic work. Combined with the acting skills of Oscar Issac, Mia Goth and Jacob Elordi, fans of del Toro and “Frankenstein” should anticipate creativity and beauty from this upcoming film.

Contact the author at lminato22@mail.wou.edu

Netflix policy change causes chaos

Written by: Sierra Porter | Staff Writer

Netflix is an American subscription streaming service that was created in 1997 by founders Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph. By 2007, they launched their streaming service to compete with Blockbuster which implemented several different family plans. Recently, Netflix has been cracking down on their single household and password sharing policies — making it an absolute nightmare for travelers, large families and especially college students.

The cheapest plan is the standard plan with ads which allows for two devices to watch TV shows and movies for $6.99. 

The standard plan is ad-free, full HD, allows for access among three devices and has the option to add an extra member– for an additional cost of 7.99 a month. The premium plan is also ad-free but offers ultra HD, is accessible on four devices and has the option to add two extra members for $7.99 each. 

The new ability to add members at an extra cost has encouraged Netflix to crack down on password sharing outside of a single household. This means that if one attempts to log in to their Netflix account outside of the designated household, it will log out all other members; regardless of if it is still within the device limit. This policy seems to be a desperate money grab, as it forces members to either buy more expensive plans or pay additional costs. 

Why is this a game-changer for so many? For many students, the full college experience includes living in the dorms, but that also means all funds usually go towards those expenses. Tremendous amounts of students report being forced off their family plans during the months they are on campus — either forced to live without the streaming services or ponying up the extra cost to be an additional member. 

Avid travelers also face this issue from time to time as they lose the ability to log into Netflix in the many places they stay while traveling. Again, one will have to log out the rest of the family in the household and deal with the wrath of streaming rights rage, ball up the extra fees or drop Netflix overall. 

This policy change has been a pain for many and up to 62% of password borrowers said they would rather stop using the streaming service in total than purchase their own account. Netflix’s attempt to force watchers to buy their services, especially the more expensive services, has thus far not been as successful as they hoped. Immediately after these changes, Netflix lost almost 1.2 million subscribers — their biggest loss in over a decade. 

Many are canceling their subscriptions and switching to other streaming services, and we can’t blame them. 

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Mixed feelings on Timothee Chalamet’s new movie

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

Content warning: this article contains spoilers

Just in time for the holiday season, a sweet prequel, based on a beloved children’s novel by Roald Dahl, arrived in theaters in the United Kingdom Dec. 8 and the United States Dec. 15. French-American actor Timothée Chalamet stars as a younger version of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’s” chocolatier, Willy Wonka. “So quiet up, and listen down. Nope, scratch that, reverse it,” as Wonka says.

The movie features talented actors, such as Hugh Grant, Olivia Colman and Keegan-Michael Key. Timothée Chalamet has acquired a fan base of young women from his roles in movies such as “Call Me By Your Name,” “Lady Bird” and “Little Women.” Word of Chalamet playing a familiar favorite spread quickly. However, some movie-goers had mixed feelings about the new take on the classic. 

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ” has already seen two adaptations, starring Gene Wilder and Johnny Depp as Wonka. Additionally, the original book has a sequel, and some fans were wondering why a prequel made it to the screen before an adaptation of the sequel did.

Lili Minato, a sophomore at Western, is a film fanatic and meticulously selects her movies. She proposed a thoughtful question in regards to the new addition to the “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” universe — “I think (prequels) can be done well… but if you want to make a prequel, is it needed?”

Perhaps the initial audience reaction to “Wonka” was due to its misleading advertising. “I thought it was weird that they didn’t (advertise) Wonka as a musical. People went and saw it, and were like, wait, why are they singing?” Minato said. 

Minato also commented that marketing the movie as a musical would have brought in more theater fans. “For some people, that sounds like the total package.”

The movie has an 82% on Rotten Tomatoes and it has many qualities that make for a great movie. With its vibrant costumes, catchy music and elaborate sets, it’s hard to look away. Elements incorporated from older movies such as “Annie” and “Mary Poppins” make “Wonka” all the more charming. For many musical fans, a new timeless classic has just been born.

8/10.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

A change for entertainment

Written by: Taylor Duff | Freelancer

Back in March of 2023, an article was released called “Writers are not keeping up” — published by the Writers Guild of America contract. This article was the start of the Writer’s Strike, expressing how writers are feeling devalued and objectified in harsh work environments, including tiny rooms and decreased pay as well as being overworked. 

The demand for writers is based on the switch to streaming from many if not most, entertainment channels. Because of the high demand, another complaint is the lack of experienced writers being hired to fill the gaps — with below or bare minimum pay giving the green light to have an excuse to pay less. 

Writers have also stated they have felt like second class to the actors and directors — being undervalued in the workplace despite doing double the amount of work and hours.

As a result of this strike taking place, the Screen Actor Guild also went on strike, and actors across all platforms made statements and interviews about the unfair treatment and harassment of their writers and staff. 

Actors such as Amanda Seyfried, Rob Lowe and Wonda Sykes all stood in solidarity with the writers during the protest. One main reason the actors joined the strike with the writers was to address the use of AI versions of themselves; using their likeness for gain in media. The SAG strike lasted until Nov. 9 of this year, meaning both WGA and SAG strikes are now over. WAG reached a tentative agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers back in September, and slowly but surely, they reached an agreement with the Screen Actors Guild as well. 

As for what this means for entertainment, the agreement is effective in protecting writers and giving proper residuals for international viewing. Due to streaming becoming the new wave of entertainment, the agreement takes effect now giving proper pay toward its writers with the royalties standing in their favor. 

Many movies will be delayed due to the strike shutting down production studios, with many directors and producers walking out. TV shows may resume, but will also be pushed back for months without new episodes. As for actors, the agreement gives them more security knowing they are protected against their likeness being used. 

As for the future of entertainment, the WGA contract term will be in effect until May 2026 — keeping in effect this protection for the people behind the entertainment consumed.      



Contact the author at tduff23@mail.wou.edu

Our favorite movies are getting old

Written by: Sierra Porter | Staff Writer

It’s crazy to think that the year 2023 is almost at its end and our favorite, as well as our busiest, holidays are fast approaching. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and New Years are all right around the corner which means we can take advantage of the break from school and cozy weather by watching some movie classics. Some of the world’s favorite movies are celebrating their 10, 20 and 30 year anniversaries; feeling old yet?

10 years old — Disney’s “Big Hero 6” is having its tenth birthday on Nov. 7, 2024, celebrating being the highest grossing animated film of 2014. Robotics genius of fictional city San Fransokyo, Hiro, faces a devastating loss of his brother, Tadashi, that throws him into a dangerous plot to avenge his brother and solve the mystery of who is stealing his invention. Transforming his squishy human helping companion, Baymax, and other friends, into a team of high-tech heroes, they come together to find who was responsible for his brother’s death and avenge him to the fullest. 

20 years old — Does one still wear pink on Wednesdays because of the iconic film “Mean Girls?” If so, it’s been 20 years since that movie came out so that’s a real fan. The 2004 film grossed 130 million in the box office and instantly became a cult classic. Homeschooled teenager Cady moves from Africa to face the world of U.S. high school cliques. Befriended by outsiders Janis Ian and Damian Leigh, they explain the cliques, specifically the infamous ‘plastics’ with popular girls Gretchen Wieners, Karen Smith and queen bee, Regina George. After the plastics invite Cady to sit with them at lunch, Janis encourages Cady to infiltrate the clique and take down the plastics. 

It’s also been 20 years since the release of the coming of age movie, “Napoleon Dynamite,” which ended up at number 14 on Bravos top 100 funniest movies of all time. Jon Heder plays the socially awkward student, Napoleon Dynamite, who daydreams his way through school to avoid the constant bullying. As he is befriended by Mexico transfer student, Pedro, and small town girl, Deb, together they attempt to take on the school and have a decent high school experience — even if that means being humiliated in the process. “Just vote for Pedro, gosh,” *Napoleon Dynamite voice*.

30 years old — Still don’t feel old yet? One might after they learn about which movie classics are turning 30 this year — like “The Lion King.” Disney released the musical drama film “The Lion King,” based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet, in June of 1994 and it quickly became the highest grossing film of that year and the second highest grossing film until 2003.

“The Lion King ” follows the life of Simba as he grows to succeed his father, Mufasa, as king of the Pride Lands. However, Simba’s uncle, Scar, was spiteful and killed Mufasa to seize the throne — allowing Simba to believe he was responsible for his fathers death resulting in him fleeing into exile. 

Being raised by carefree mentors Pumbaa and Timone, as well as getting valuable advice from childhood friends, Nala and Rafiki, Simba is encouraged to return to the Pride Lands to challenge Scar and avenge his father.  



Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

The classic origins of “Clueless,” “She’s the Man” and “10 Things I Hate About You”

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

“Clueless,” “10 Things I Hate About You,” and “She’s the Man” are humorous high school movies with dynamic protagonists. These three films have kept audiences entertained since the 1990s and 2000s. However, what many may not know about these movies is that they are based on century-old classics. 

Jane Austen’s “Emma” was first published in 1815 and was the last novel to be published during Austen’s lifetime. The title character, Emma Woodhouse, is intelligent, a little spoiled and an enthusiastic matchmaker. What modern character is Emma’s equal? Cher Horowitz from the 1995 chick flick “Clueless,” of course. It would be a disservice to Jane Austen to limit “Clueless” to just a chick flick — there is more nuance to the movie that refreshingly pulls from the original story.

The witty female protagonist and charming bad-boy love interest from the film “10 Things I Hate About You” has dominated the screen since 1999. The film’s protagonists, Kat and Patrick, are the late ’90s equivalent of Katherina and Petruchio from “The Taming of the Shrew” — the Shakespeare play that was written over 400 years before the movie. Kat is stubborn, Patrick is sarcastic and together they create the perfect couple.

A lesser-known Shakespearean modern favorite is “She’s the Man,” a high school movie based on the comedy “Twelfth Night.” Twins Viola and Sebastian Hastings are complete opposites — Viola loves sports and Sebastian is an aspiring musician. The 2006 rom-com challenged gender norms, as Viola pretended to be her brother in order to play on the boys’ soccer team — and kicked some serious butt no less. This movie carries on the miscommunication trope that both Shakespeare and modern audiences love so much.

Hailee Carmody, a sophomore at Western shared her opinions on “She’s the Man” and how it presented feminism. 

“We see the idea that women are just as capable as men… especially when the gender switch happens,” Carmody said. However, she also spoke up about parts of the movie that are now outdated. “I definitely think there are some gender stereotypes that are present and not necessarily addressed. It’s a movie that’s a product of its time and should be taken with a grain of salt.”

These classics had powerful female protagonists centuries ago, and their stories have carried over into the present day for modern audiences to enjoy. These tales never became irrelevant — they just needed a little reworking. This genre of movie has reintroduced fans to inspiring stories their ancestors once enjoyed.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Upcoming headliners

Written by: Hannah Field | News Editor

November 2023 is projected to be a busy month for media releases. Some great hits have already come out, including lots of anticipated movies like “Barbie,” “Oppenheimer” and “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” and novels such as the new Percy Jackson book, a Hunger Games addition and many celebrity memoirs topping the charts. The excitement is expected to last through the end of the year with new content lined up for avid readers and movie-enjoyers.
Author Rebecca Yarros came in hot in April 2023 with “Fourth Wing” — the first book in her series titled The Empyrean. “Fourth Wing” is projected on Goodreads with a 4.6 rating out of 5, prompting the release of her highly anticipated sequel, “Iron Flame,” which is expected to be released Nov. 7.     

With themes of fantasy and romance, protagonist Violet Sorrengail is thrown headfirst into a grueling test of wits and will in her second year at Basgiath War College — all while being pushed to betray her one true love. After “Iron Flame,” Yarros is expected to release three more books. “Iron Flame” is a must-read after “Fourth Wing’s” success.

Suzanne Collins’ newest novel, “Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” may have been released by now, but the movie directed by Francis Lawrence premieres Nov. 17. The movie is eyeing a $50 million box opening and may be one of the most anticipated films of the year. Taking place long before Katniss Everdeen’s iconic overture of the Hunger Games, the plot focuses on insidious president Coriolanus Snow, pre-presidency, and delves into the philosophical themes around control and chaos.

Christopher Paolini began his writing career with his publication of “Eragon” when he was 19, going on to resolve the Eragon series in 2011 — until now, with the expected release of his follow-up novel “Murtagh,” the name of a beloved character from the original tetralogy. 

While the plot itself is largely unknown, it has been said that “Murtagh” takes place a year after the last novel, “Inheritance,” left off and that the Dragon Rider has been exiled to unknown territory. Dragons appear to be a major hit with new novels this November.

The animated movie “Wish” premieres Nov. 22 in theaters — produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. With a 200 million dollar budget, “Wish” is expected to stun crowds with its worldbuilding and animation. 

After the protagonist Asha makes a wish on a star, she is forced into exile while trying to save the future of her beloved kingdom. Chances are, “Wish” will be a hit for kids, families and adults alike — utilizing that Disney charm to win over audiences. Secondly, it hosts the same teams that worked on “Frozen” and “Moana,” a sign of success for the film. “Wish” will be commemorating Disney’s 100th year of production as an animation studio, so expect a stellar show.

While not a movie nor a book, the drama series “All The Light We Cannot See,” arrives Nov. 2.  Modeled after the novel of the same name by author Anthony Doerr, the story revolves around a blind girl during Nazi reign who meets a young German soldier and tells a tale of resistance, hope and survival. The series has some big names, like Mark Ruffalo and Hugh Laurie, and stars breakout actress Aria Mia Loberti. The show will have four episodes and is to be streamed on Netflix.

Calling all horror fans: “Thanksgiving” releases Nov. 17, starring big names like Patrick Dempsey and Addison Rae. Plymouth, Massachusetts, is plagued by an axe-wielding serial killer in this upcoming thriller directed by Eli Roth.

Carol Danvers returns to theaters Nov. 10 in “The Marvels,” where she and two others join forces under the alias — you guessed it — The Marvels. With entangled powers and a breaking universe’s fate on their backs, the three have to unite to achieve their goal. The action movie has a gross budget of $274.9 million and includes another performance from Brie Larson. 

Audience reviews have a mixed expectation for the movie: while it is far too early for a rotten tomatoes rating as the movie isn’t even out yet, “The Marvels” has the shortest runtime of any Marvel movie to date and Brie Larson has faced plenty of critique online for supposedly being “disillusioned” in her role as Captain Marvel. Disney+ may receive the film early in 2024, but that is only a projected guess; in the meantime, it can be found in theaters near you very soon. 



Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

Bite of ’89

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

Two well-loved fan bases are celebrating simultaneous, monumental releases on Oct. 27. Both horror video game and pop music fans are being brought together by this fateful fall Friday. The ultimate question is which one will one be indulging in: the release of the live-action “Five Nights at Freddy’s” movie, “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” or both?

Taylor Swift, currently one of the most well-known artists in pop music, announced she was going to re-record her first six albums in November of 2020. Swift’s old label sold her music to her manager, Scooter Braun, meaning she no longer owns the rights to any of her music. It’s no wonder that fans of the singer/songwriter are excited about the re-recording of the albums.

Fans of Swift — Swifties — everywhere are proud of this empowering transformation of their favorite artist.

“It’s one of her most iconic albums. This is the year she really embraced pop… I’m just really excited to be back in that era again,” said Kayla Smith, a sophomore at Western.

Though Swifties are ecstatic, some still look down on Taylor Swift and her music. “Even if you’re not a Swiftie… be supportive. You don’t have to listen to it if you don’t want to, but try not to be mean to Swifties out there who are really excited,” said Smith.

On the same day, fans of “Five Nights at Freddy’s” will be in theaters for the release of the movie adaptation of the horror game. The video game was first popularized in 2014 by gaming Youtubers who streamed videos of themselves playing “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Was that the bite of ’87? Players have to survive five nights alone as a security guard at a pizzeria — avoiding animatronics in the dark and learning the many years of intricate game lore.

The ultimate lesson to take away from this encroaching date is to be supportive of each other. Whether it’s pop star Taylor Swift, or horror game turned movie “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” both have made large advances in the last few years. Though both are very different, there is much to celebrate this fateful October weekend.

Contact the author at howlenterrtainment@wou.edu

Fun fall watchlist

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

“Gilmore Girls” on Netflix

“Practical Magic” on Hulu

“Charmed” on Netflix

“Dead Poets Society” on Prime

“Coraline” on Max and Hulu

“Coco” on Disney+

“Over the Garden Wall” on Hulu

“The Shining” on Max

“Knives Out” on Prime

“Wendell and Wild” on Netflix

“The Birds” on Prime

“The Golden Bachelor” on Hulu

“Halloweentown” on Disney+

“What We Do In the Shadows” on Hulu

“Haunted Mansion” on Disney+

“Black Swan” on Prime

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

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