Little Red Riding Vogue: Award season and the red carpet fashion game

Admin

Now that I have returned to campus from winter break, I am happy to say my closet is completely updated and full with J. Crew corduroys, Forever 21 sweaters, and vintage dresses. I went home with one suitcase and came back with two—and even then I had to leave a few things behind. In fact, it seems I am not the only one. Since the new semester began, I have been noticing fresh fashion all throughout campus.

However, the most important thing in the fashion world right now is of course award season fashion. With the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards under our belt, there is already so much to talk about. First off, it is obvious that the color of the season is a daring red.

At the Golden Globes, Lupita Nyong’o, star of “12 Years A Slave”, wowed everyone with an incredible, crimson gown with a flowing cape from Ralph Lauren. Likewise, Amy Adams opted for a similarly scarlet Valentino gown with a plunging neckline that fit right in with her character’s style in “American Hustle”. Emma Watson left everyone speechless in a red dress from Dior that was completely open in the back, exposing a pair of sleek, navy pants.

Another stunner was Cate Blanchett in a black lace Armani Prive. An additional beauty in black was Lily Rabe of “American Horror Story” who wore a striking Georges Hobeika dress. Rabe’s fellow actresses from “American Horror Story” were not far behind as Sarah Paulson (also representing the film “12 Years a Slave”) arrived in a gorgeous, silvery Marchesa gown. Taissa Farmiga delighted in a charming, cream dress by Elie Saab.

A further trend on the red carpet was proudly showing off baby bumps. The top looks were without a doubt, Olivia Wilde and Drew Barrymore. Smoldering Wilde wore a form-fitting, emerald, Gucci gown that accentuated her baby bump while Barrymore chose a floral number from Monique Lhuillier that covered her figure without drawing attention to her stomach.

At the even more recent SAG Awards Lupita Nyong’o once again took red carpet fashion by the reigns and entered in a one-of-a-kind turquoise gown by Gucci.

Child star Abigail Breslin of “August: Osage County” proved that if you could not tell from her new movie that she is an adult now, her dress certainly could. She pulled of a mature Elvira-esque black gown from Chagoury Couture—complete with a flattering black sequin bolero.

Also rocking a vamp-ish look was Claire Danes of “Homeland” who upped her game this time around and went for a breathtaking navy sequin gown with a flowing train, courtesy of Vionnet. In the same line was It Girl, Jennifer Lawrence, who redeemed her Golden Globes gown with a dazzling, strapless dress from Dior.

Electing neutral colors were Isla Fisher and Sofia Vergara. Fisher chose a simple, creamy silk gown from Bulgari. Vergara decided to wear a sandy, sparkling gown by Donna Karan Atelier—not that she needs to work hard to look incredible.

Although there were certainly a few fashion-flops (see Sandra Bullock or Aubrey Plaza at the Globes—not that I don’t love them dearly), there was some fierce competition out on the red carpet this year. If I had to pick one favorite? Paulson’s simple but elegant lace gown—I have always been a sucker for Marchesa.

From book to film: “The Book Thief” strikes again

Admin

Markus Zusak’s “The Book Thief” combines both genres of WWII fiction and the classic coming of age tale. The story covers themes of innocence and humanity wrapped in a bilingual structure. Despite potential difficulties in translating these nuances into film, director Bryan Percival succeeds in the adaptation from page to screen.

Narrated from the point of view of Death (Roger Allam), the film follows Liesel Meminger (Sophie Nélisse) and her growth on Himmel Street in WWII. While learning to read, she takes to stealing books after a burning occurs in her town. Her eyes become further opened to the war torn world around her after her foster parents start hiding a fugitive Jew named Max (Ben Schnetzer).

Complete with amazing performances and subtle cinematography, “The Book Thief” becomes an excellent adaptation of the Zusak classic. In the historical fiction landscape, the film showcases humanity in a dark time.

The opening credits and scene establish the tone for the rest of the film. During the credits, the title of the film appears in German first before revealing the English translation. This weaving between the languages, present in the book, remains consistent throughout the film.

Percival makes some very careful choices, not only when to transition between English and German, but also when to provide subtitles. These choices lead audiences through moments of both tension and cultural openness, adhering to a more European tradition of filmmaking.

After the credits, Death’s narration reminds audiences that we are destined to die, played over blue skies and shots looking over the German landscape. While a nice nod to Riefenstahl, the narration highlights Death’s omniscient presence. Even the film’s more tender moments are marked by the suggestion of upcoming horrific events; sooner or later, war comes to Himmel Street, with Death soon to follow.

Leaving these opening moments, the film remains startlingly true to the original text through subtle casting and technical work. Hats should tip to Kate Dowd for her incredible casting. Great attention to individual character details come to light on film, from the feathery hair of Schnetzer’s Max to the large and insightful eyes of Nélisse’s Liesel.

Keeping with the eye imagery, the camera often focuses on Liesel’s gaze, becoming an extended metaphor for both her physical and intellectual growth. Even the film’s dialogue, often borrowing directly from Zusak’s novel, helps to retain much of its emotional appeal. Simple changes of lighting or camera angles help audiences to understand the beautiful distinction of the film without being beaten over the head.

Naturally, where book-to-film translation provides the backbone for the film’s strengths, it also answers for the film’s minor weaknesses. One such example is the slippery character of Death. In the book, Death has a unique voice and personality. While his snarkiness and philosophical musings remain consistent in the book, it falters in the film by restricting the amount of voiceovers. As a result, audiences do not get the same insight into his character. If not for the intention to retain the fairy tale atmosphere, it probably would have been more beneficial to remove Death’s narration entirely.

Another example is the minimal plot holes. Some sub plots go unresolved as an attempt to pick which events from five hundred pages should be put into the film. Thankfully, these weaknesses do not affect the overall enjoyment of the film. As far as adaptations go, “The Book Thief” is one of the more successful interpretations.

Although 2013 has seen its fair share of mediocre films, “The Book Thief” helps the year to end strong. It is, no doubt, a must see.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

 

Empowering or degrading: Chatham students give their opinions on pole fitness

Admin

Every January without fail it’s the same story. As the ball drops and one year comes to an end and a brand new year begins, countless women resolve to get in shape. When most people think fitness they think of treadmills and exercise videos. They assume they’re in for long hours at the gym or outside. This semester Chatham women looking for a workout can take a different approach.

In the South Side of Pittsburgh there lives a studio called Fitness With a Twist that teaches one of the few dances in the world where women get to lead: pole dancing. Eight years ago, intrigued by the new trend of “pole fitness,” Vanessa Russo decided to give the new form of exercise a shot. The problem was that there was no place in Pittsburgh that offered such an activity. Russo then decided to take matters into her own hands and create one.

Some might be wondering why an institution that prides itself on creating World Ready Women would sponsor a class that revolves around an activity that some people consider downright degrading. Student Affairs’ answer: the students requested it. And why would a future World Ready Woman or any woman in general take such a class? “‘It looked fun’–that is the number one line that I get,” said instructor Ebony Seskey. “Whether you’re a young college woman, a mom, a doctor, whatever, we all have our insecurities. Here, you learn to love yourself for who you are and not what society wants you to be.”

The Chatham girls who took the class would agree with Seskey’s take on Fitness with a Twist. When asked why she took the class, Ciera Young, a senior and first time attendee, said, “I’ve heard varying opinions about the class and I wanted to experience for myself,” and added, “The class was not as sexual as I expected it to be and it was more of a workout than I expected. I probably won’t take a full class in the future but I understand why some women would take the class.”

However there are still people unconvinced of the potential merits of this kind of class. In a piece for the Guardian in opposition to strip aerobics titled, “Actually, You Won’t Find Female Empowerment Halfway up A Pole” writer David Mitchell said, “Pole dancing is grim and I don’t see anything empowering about learning it. Even if you say that it’s just dancing and good exercise, surely it would be more empowering to learn a dance that can be employed in contexts other than strip clubs?”

When asked what she would say in response to naysayers such as Mr. Mitchell, Seskey did not feel the need to provide a lengthy defense of the practice simply saying, “No one truly knows what to expect when they walk through those doors, it is my job to show you that this truly is a workout.” Seskey additionally spoke of the pride she felt seeing her once shy students perform at their yearly dance recitals and more lighthearted moments like her students participating in a Harlem shake video.

“I don’t think that it’s wrong to be sexy,” said sophomore Kyara Francis, a fan of the class, “We’ve been programed to think certain things are trashy. We were taking a class, I don’t think it was degrading I think it was a good time.”

One thing that Seskey thinks that people should know about Fitness With a Twist is how accepting the students and teachers are. “We all believe that every woman that walks in those doors are amazing in their own right.”

Cougars fall to Presidents 70-51

Admin

The Chatham Cougars fell 70 to 51 to the Washington & Jefferson Presidents on Saturday, January 11 at the Chatham University Athletic and Fitness Center.

The Presidents’ Valerie Dunlap scored the most points, totaling 16 for her team. Chatham University’s star was sophomore Rachel McClain, who managed to rack up thirteen points over the course of the game, including a three-pointer that got the Cougars on the board for the first time.

After facing a twenty-point deficit at the end of the first half, the Cougars increased their speed and aggression in the second half. However, it was not enough to bridge the gap between the two teams.

The Cougars showed their impressive ability to handle the ball, as well as their awareness of their teammates, always seeming to know what their next move was going to be. This loss was certainly not due to a lack of talent on the Cougar team, but rather the culmination of missed opportunities.

The Cougars will play their next game on Wednesday, January 22 at home versus Thiel College at 7 p.m.

Foodie on the Half Shell: Say yes to Brussels sprouts (especially during the holidays)

Admin

Brussels sprouts get way too bad of a rap for what they really are. People think that they are yucky because we are raised to think that way. These little balls of leafy goodness are delicious and very good for you. Brussels sprouts contain a helpful natural chemical called sulforaphane which has been known to be an “anti-cancer” chemical.

This notorious vegetable tastes very similar to cabbage when it is raw, but its natural sugars are released when cooked, creating a very enjoyable food. My favorite way of preparing Brussels sprouts is to grill them or roast them with some EVOO, balsamic vinegar, some salt and tons of pepper. Because of the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar, the outsides of the Brussels sprouts get caramelized and crispy. These supposedly evil vegetables are my favorite and complete my holidays.

I thought that it was about time that I give you guys a recipe of my own to show you that I’m not entirely talk. I am going to give you a recipe that is a very near and dear recipe and one that I usually like to keep to myself, like most of my recipes! I’ve realized, though, that I can only help people if I share some of my ideas.

It is a Brussels sprout gratin that I serve every holiday season that you can adopt into your seasonal spread every year. I started this heavenly casserole about four years ago on Thanksgiving. The original recipe that I used the first year was from a Williams-Sonoma magazine, but I have moved on and added my own twists and turns. Do not be afraid of this only because of the vegetable choice, but look forward to embracing this new food into your everyday life.

So, here we are everyone! My entire family and friends’ favorite holiday dish I make that I like to call the “Brussels Sprouts Awareness Gratin.”

 You will need:
2 lbs of Brussels sprouts
8 oz of Gruyere cheese
2 cups bread crumbs
Handful of good quality Parmesan
1 lemon
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of caramelized onion
3 cloves of crushed garlic
A few pinches of cayenne pepper
Some salt and some pepper for taste

First, you are going to clean the Brussels. Take off the bruised outside leaves, and cut them in half. Next you will bring the Brussels to boil in salted water until they are tender. Strain, and rinse with cold water to cease cooking.

While the Brussels are coming to a boil you will want to make your topping mix to go on top of the creamy Brussels gratin. Mix the breadcrumbs, lemon juice, salt and pepper and Parmesan.

To make the gratin, you will mix the boiled Brussels with the cream, the Gruyere cheese, the caramelized onion, the cayenne pepper and the crushed garlic. You will mix this all up until the Brussels are well covered in the creamy mix. Spread the gratin into a 5X13 pan and top with the breadcrumb mix. Put in the oven at 375F, and cook for about 30 minutes or until the gratin is bubbly and browned at the top. Finito! Enjoy!

The best and worst of book-to-film

Admin

In honor of the success of “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,”  here is a brief list of some of the best and worst book adaptations to hit the big screen.

The Best:

“The Great Gatsby” (2013)

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rARN6agiW7o’]

It’s hard to capture a novel as perfect as this one, which so beautifully encapsulates the spirit of its era, however, Baz Luhrmann made the right move by instead infusing it with some 21st century flare to create a sparkling and explosive film that knocks audiences out of their seats.

“Brokeback Mountain” (2005)

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QdJt9E-f2A’]

In my opinion, this is history’s most riveting and lovingly made movie. It takes the gritty, no-nonsense voice of the short story and translates it to the screen with all the beauty of both the love story at the film’s heart and the western landscape in which it is set.

“The Lord of the Rings” (2001-2003)

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V75dMMIW2B4′]

It’s impossible not to get swept away by Peter Jackson’s vision of Middle Earth, and indeed, audiences have returned again and again for over a decade. This successful series is still in such high demand that the director returned to create “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” ten years after the last film.

“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” (2005)

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYcGFLgJ8Uo’]

As far as adaptions of novels go, this is perhaps the most faithful of all I’ve seen. The best lines, the best images and the best of the magic from C.S. Lewis’ book come to life right before our eyes, and any future attempts to bring Narnia to film will pale in comparison to this classic.

 The Worst:

“The Wizard of Oz” (1939)

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43x9MzrJaQ0′]

This movie may be one of America’s most iconic features to date, but it also erased the darker nature of the novel and the incredible skill that Baum demonstrated in storytelling in exchange for a cheerful popcorn musical that is simpler, and therefore more digestible to some. If you’re looking for one of the best adaptations of Oz yet, you should turn to Disney’s 1985 “Return to Oz.”

“Interview With the Vampire: The Vampire Chronicles” (1994)

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLasb_L51X8′]

The swampy and violent environment of Lestat’s world in the novel is replaced with a glamorous and artificial one of the aristocracy, and the story of Louis’ brother is sadly erased. While I still highly recommend the movie and there’s no one who can play Lestat as well as Cruise, I also recommend that Hollywood give a shot at adapting this novel one more try.

Hidden gems: other locations to get your coffee fix

Admin

The weather is getting colder, and the need for inside entertainment options is growing. There’s no need to worry though; among a vast array of cozy activities, Chatham is surrounded by a number of cafés and coffee houses that are sure to keep you warm and occupied this winter.

61C Cafe

Photo: Shaina Little

Photo: Shaina Little

The 61C Café on Murray Avenue in Squirrel Hill is a great option for anyone looking to warm up in a sophisticated setting. With glassware and real silverware, the atmosphere is serious but relaxing. Jazz music plays in the background as people rejoice in the delicious coffee, tea and smoothies they offer, but the real treasures in this café are the delectable desserts. With cakes on display in front of the counter, each dessert appears like a little slice of heaven. While the café is small, it has quaint feeling that makes the limited space cozy and relaxing. This is the perfect place to sit, relax, and get some reading done right down the street from Chatham’s campus.

Big Dog Coffee

Photo: Shaina Little

Photo: Shaina Little

 Next on the list is Big Dog Coffee in South Side. The trip is a little further than Squirrel Hill but well worth it. The café offers coffee, tea and even an oatmeal bar for a relaxing morning. Big Dog’s has two rooms, making it larger than the 61C Cafe, and  it has a more relaxed tone. The atmosphere is still conducive for working, but also allows for hanging out in the café. The first room houses more relaxed style seating with living room chairs and tables, and the traditional restaurant style seating is in the back room. Playing mostly alternative 90’s music, the cafe’s target customer base appears to be college-age people. There is also a bulletin board where various local bands and plays are advertised. If you feel like you need something to do on the weekend, this bulletin board is a great place to start.

Biddle’s Escape

Last, but not least, one of the best cafés in Pittsburgh is Biddle’s Escape located in Regent Square. The atmosphere is unlike any other café with a bohemian, eclectic feel that is inviting and warm. Their menu is written in chalk, detailing the drink options. Biddle’s Escape also serves food such as bagels and sandwiches. There are also prepackaged, healthier options on the counter as well. The bohemian music creates a relaxed atmosphere where anyone can feel like they belong.

Events are constantly being held in the café and are listed on a chalkboard next to the drink options. The café holds events such as book signings and readings, writing workshops and much more. Just this past Wednesday, a group gathered around the African Masks and beaded jewelry along the walls to play “Magic the Gathering,” a trading card game. Biddle’s Escape appears to be just that: an escape. There’s something there for everyone to enjoy, and you can even meet new people. The café has signs anyone can pick up and put on their table that say things like: “I’m grumpy, come share a table with me.” With a sense of humor and fun, this café has a personality of all  it’s own. If a Saturday ever seems to be too bland and boring, check out one of these wonderfully fun cafes.

Chatham Students get real about stereotypes at BSU’s Real Talk

Admin

Every other Monday, the Black Student Union holds a Real Talk. At Real Talk, students of any ethnicity can come and express their feelings on the topic at hand. In the latest session, participants discussed how stereotypes affect peoples’ perception of others.

 Stereotypes are generalization made on a group of people. Some common ones are African-Americans are good at basketball, or Caucasians cannot dance. These ideas are imbedded in our culture, and as a result, people are judged because of these generalizations.

 At the Real Talk, photos were shown of people of different races and the question was asked which person was a convicted felon. Minorities are often seen as possible criminals but in the two examples both Caucasians individuals were involved in criminal activities. The activity proved how stereotypes are inaccurate of an entire population of people.

 Join the BSU at the next Real Talk . All students are welcomed to speak their mind. The talks begin at seven in the Carriage House student lounge.

 

Chatham first-year attempts to change Pennsylvania stalking legislation

Admin

Under current Pennsylvania law, approximately 60% of stalking victims are unable to obtain a protective order. PA stalking victims can only obtain a Protection from Abuse Order (PFA) if their stalker is either a relative or a current or former intimate partner.

On Tuesday November 19, the PA House Judiciary Committee passed an amendment to SB681 that would allow victims of stranger stalking to obtain restraining orders. The amendment, also referred to as “Sarah’s Bill,” was written by first-year Sarah Pesi and will next be sent to the House floor for a vote.

Pesi drafted the bill at age 14 while attending Belle Vernon Area High School. When she was 12, Pesi held a job as a youth soccer referee. After an adult male coach began stalking and harassing her, Pesi contacted the police and was informed that she could not obtain a protective order because her stalker did not meet the PA state qualifications.

Pesi joined the Youth and Government organization at age 14, where she participated in a model legislative conference and learned how to draft a bill. When she was given the assignment to “pick something in Pennsylvania that frustrates you and that you want to change,” Pesi instantly knew what to write about. Pesi conducted extensive research on stalking and harassing, taking notes on laws from other states as well as data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics.

While Pesi’s bill successfully passed through the model legislature, she was not satisfied with just an imaginary law. The day after she finished her freshman year of high school, Pesi met with House Representative Ted Harhai, who agreed to sponsor Sarah’s Bill.

Six years later, Pesi is still working to get her legislation passed. “It definitely is difficult at times…it’s frustrating when you work so hard and only get part of what you want,” said Pesi. “But I would say even if I could help just one person, it would be worth it.” If the bill passes the upcoming House vote, it will then be sent to the Senate for approval. “Getting it past committee is a huge step because most bills die in committee.” said Pesi. As the bill progresses through various stages, Pesi recognizes that the success is truly a result of the group effort of all who have helped her along the way. Some major players who have made this possible include the Women and Girls Foundation ( who taught her essential advocacy skills) as well as people within the legislative system who have helped: Representative Ellis, Chairman Marsico, Representative Turzai, Mr. Dymek and the members of the House Judiciary Committee.

Chatham students can help support Sarah’s Bill by visiting www.sarahsbill.org and signing up for email alerts. The email updates are the best way to stay informed on the upcoming House vote and other events, as well as fill out action alerts.

Waiting for Intermission: Review of “Thor: The Dark World”

Admin

The library of Marvel films features a series of interconnecting storylines. As a result, some films are weaker than others. With the origin films having been made, successors must learn to be strong while maintaining the original storyline. Thankfully, “Thor: The Dark World” secures this balance.

“The Dark World” follows the legendary hero, Thor (Chris Hemsworth), in a mission to stop a race of night elves led by Malekith (Christopher Eccleston) from spreading a dark substance throughout the universe. To defeat him, Thor begrudgingly enlists the help of his brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston), who has his own schemes.

From strong writing to electric acting, “The Dark World” adds a strong chapter to the story of Thor. Of the slew of superhero sequels hitting theaters, this film is one of the strongest in the Marvel franchise.

 The crux of the film lies in the power of its fanbase. After the cataclysmic success of the “Avengers,” Marvel started to better tailor their films to the chaotic few who look for one longing glance as evidence behind their Thor and Loki fanfiction. The film caters to this fanbase in two ways: writing and acting. In terms of the writing, “The Dark World” offers a drastic improvement to its predecessor.

The first film showcased a mad dash to the finish line, trying to cram an entire origin story while getting ready for the “Avengers.” This sequel offers audiences a newfound freedom in the screenwriting, taking the time to flesh out key dynamics, such as the one between Odin and his sons. In addition, side characters are given more time in the spotlight, in particular the character Heimdall, played by the fantastic Idris Elba. By not rushing through these relationships, audiences have more time to immerse themselves into the world of Asgard.

Audiences can lose themselves in this technically stunning world, complete with starry canvasses and sprawling kingdoms. Understanding the individual dynamics provides a guide for audiences through the many twists of the film. Unlike the first film, audiences are not confused as to character motivations. The acting and chemistry between the actors have also improved dramatically since the last film.

In terms of acting, Tom Hiddleston completely steals the show as Loki. His snarky commentary throughout the film makes him as charismatic as he is devious. He provides the perfect balance to Thor’s stoic personality, creating a chemistry that is hilarious to watch. By the end, the film transcends above the desires of the fanbase, becoming enjoyable for the general audience as well.

 Despite starring Chris Hemsworth, who some would consider a god in his own right, the film is nowhere near perfect. Foreshadowing in the film is painfully ham-handed. Key scenes and bits of dialogue allow audiences to know what will happen fifteen minutes before it does. For a film peppered with plot twists, the pattern of reveal quickly becomes boring.

It does not help when the film drags on these plot twists, which end up stunting the overall pacing of the film. However, the character of Jane Foster, played by Natalie Portman, most undermines the strength of the film. Though she displays incredible intelligence, her character is inextricably tied to Thor as the love interest. Giggling and bumbling overshadow her stubborn and determined nature. The film also exploits her body as a vessel for Aether, the substance required to spread the darkness. Unlike Sif and Frigga, two strong Asgardian women, the film wants audiences to relate to Jane instead. This portrayal speaks volumes for Marvel’s representation of women throughout the film adaptations, struggling to achieve the balance between the independent woman and the love interest.

 “Thor: The Dark World” is a wonderful film to chase away the dreary November. If anything, Chris Hemsworth taking his shirt off should be a plus.

 Rating: 3.5 out of 5

[youtuber youtube=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bFZJ-3zNFg’]