Category: A&E

A&E: Taylor Swift announces new album “Midnights”

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By Mia Caliva

On Sunday, Aug. 28, 2022, singer and songwriter Taylor Swift announced her upcoming tenth studio album “Midnights” at the Video Music Awards (VMA’s). In her announcement, Swift excitedly reports her newest album will tell “the stories of 13 sleepless nights” and comes out Oct. 21 of 2022. Swift also took to Instagram and Twitter to share the good news in a heartfelt post in which she says, “We lie awake in love and in fear, in turmoil and in tears…this is a collection of music written in the middle of the night, a journey through terrors and sweet dreams. Meet me at midnight.” 

Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift pictured in her long-awaited studio album “Midnights” releasing on Oct. 21st, 2022. Swift’s album, which she captioned on Instagram will tell “the stories of 13 sleepless nights”, is her tenth studio album. (Taylor Swift/ Instagram)

Swift’s last album, “Evermore,” was released Dec. 11 of 2020, and after nearly two years, her fans are restless for the arrival of “Midnights” and its 13 brand new tracks. Ambiguously, Swift titles her tracks “Track one,” “Track Two,” “Track Three,” all the way to “Track Thirteen.” Fans theorize that these titles are not official and that Swift will eventually reveal the genuine titles of her tracks, but nothing has been confirmed. It is also uncertain if Swift’s latest transition to indie/folk-pop style music, as represented in her albums “Evermore” and “Folklore,” will continue to be a theme in “Midnights.”  

As always, a Taylor Swift album couldn’t be released without a ceaseless stream of fan speculations. This time, fans fixate on the release date, Oct. 21, of “Midnights” as it coincides with Kim Kardashian’s birthday. Some speculate this is a jab at a past feud between Swift and Kardashian in 2016, where Kardashian had supposedly called Swift a “snake” after defending her ex-husband Kanye West for writing misogynistic lyrics about Swift in his song “Famous.” Fans also speculate that Oct. 21 was chosen as the release date for the album because ten, two, and one add up to 13, Swift’s famous lucky number, which seems most realistic. 

“Midnights” is already available for preorder as a vinyl, CD, cassette, and digital album. 

Review: From shakes to singing, Austin Butler best portrays Elvis in the new movie

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By THEA LENDENG

There have been many interpretations of Elvis Presley’s life. These interpretations have caused Elvis to gain a lot of hate because of false facts. Although, with Austin Butler and the director, Baz Luhrmann, showed  Elvis’ name and reputation justice.

Austin Butler had two  years to prepare playing Elvis and during that time, he hired a professional swim coach that had also worked with the cast of “Bohemian Rhapsody”  to really get the shakes and wiggles down just like Elvis himself. 

After watching even just a few of his interviews, Butler expresses the type of pressure he felt having to portray Elvis in an acceptable and satisfactory way. He has stated, “What made me nervous was Elvis was so loved and so iconic, you feel responsibility playing any human that has actually lived, but with him it’s like, it’s a weight like I never felt before,” he said. 

Butler added, “And there’s a responsibility to his family and also putting his story into context. That’s the thing.”

He papered his walls with photos of the musician, and spent his days studying and mimicking Elvis’s movements in addition to his voice. Pouring himself into the role came with a cost for Butler. He put so much energy into resurrecting Elvis that his body revolted less than 24 hours after they finished filming.

Butler perfected the voice of Elvis since he had been working on it for 2 years with no end, so it has stuck with him. Fans and interviewers have wondered why Butler still has the voice of Elvis lingering in his own.

Butler said, “That was the voice I spoke in for two years. It was so habitual…You get done and you kinda don’t remember what your natural voice is.”

Butler singing all the songs in the Elvis movie has surprised many. 

Even personally, I believed he was just lip syncing until I got home and did my own research on it.I suggest watching the movie and interviews on your own, the effort put into the movie, not just by Austin Butler but the whole team did an outstanding job.

Years-old conspiracy theories confuse people, even in 2022

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By: KENDRA BURDICK, CRAIG MORRISON, DESTINY RAMOS

Conspiracy theories have been around for centuries and some are created every day. These theories show some beliefs that have converted into explanations for things such as an organization being responsible for a circumstance or event.

No man on the moon

The conspiracy theory of man never having walked on the moon is a theory that has been around since Apollo 11 landed on the moon in 1969. (KENDRA BURDICK/Ethic News Photo)

The moon landing conspiracy theory is a widespread belief that the American Apollo 11 astronauts did not land on the Moon on July 20, 1969, and that NASA employees filmed all Apollo missions in a studio instead. Theorists from all over the world, such as Richard Godwin, author of the novel The Spirits and the article “One giant … lie? Why so many people still think the moon landings were faked,” claim that NASA staged some or all of these events with help from other organizations to fool the public into believing that a man had walked on the moon.

Godwin claims “Kaysing had contributed to the US space programme, albeit tenuous: between 1956 and 1963, he was an employee of Rocketdyne, a company that helped to design the Saturn V rocket engines. In 1976, he self-published a pamphlet called We Never Went to the Moon: America’s Thirty Billion Dollar Swindle, which sought evidence for his conviction utilizing grainy photocopies and ludicrous theories.”

The main evidence for this belief is based on photographs from NASA’s lunar surface exploration missions which show shadows in different directions and light coming from multiple directions, suggesting two sources of light (one natural, one artificial). It also suggests they were taken inside a large studio with a small window providing Earth.

Flat Earth

The Flat Earth theory has gained a lot of traction in recent years. (KENDRA BURDICK/Ethic News Photo)

A lot of people think that the earth is flat and not round as people have always been told. The conspiracy theory is often associated with religious beliefs, such as Christianity and Islam.

The Flat Earth theory was by the ancient Greeks who began the acceptance of the idea of the Earth being ‘flat.’ It had a resurgence during the Middle Ages when Christians were convinced that the earth was flat because they believed that if it wasn’t then there was no way one could reach Heaven.

Stephanie Pappas, writer for the science news site ‘Live Science,’ wrote the article “Are flat-earthers being serious,” explaining that believers of this theory can’t see to the other side because it’s blocked by ice, or that Antarctica is a giant ice wall. Others argue that NASA never went to space and all of its footage is faked. And finally, some say that we’re just living in a simulation and this planet is just one of many in our universe.

Pappas explains further “A fringe society founded in the 1950s, dedicated to insisting that the Earth is flat, has given rise to a modern ground of flat Earth adherents. These believers claim that the Earth is a flat disc and that evidence that it is round — say, pictures taken from space — is an elaborate hoax involving multiple governments. Opinions differ on exactly how the flat Earthworks, with believers concocting elaborate versions of physics and creative interpretations of the solar system to make their theories work.”

The conspiracy that the Earth is flat has been around for centuries, it has never disappeared and it seems that it’s a conspiracy theory that’ll stay for a while.

Chemtrails

When people see aircraft flying in the sky, creating a trail of clouds, are they seeing clouds or chemicals? According to ‘Harvard University,’ “Chemtrails refers to the theory that governments or other parties are engaged in a secret program to add toxic chemicals to the atmosphere from aircraft in a way that forms visible plumes in the sky, somewhat similar to contrails.” (KENDRA BURDICK/Ethic News Photo)

Contrails are what are produced by aircraft due to engine exhaust or changes in air pressure. It is composed mostly of water. However, some people believe that this is not the case. 

The Chemtrails conspiracy is a theory that around the mid-1990s. This theory states that the government or, some secret agency, is using aircraft to spray chemicals on the general population.

According to David Keith’s Research Group at Harvard University, some thought motives for the supposed chemtrails are “sterilization, reduction of life expectancy, mind control or weather control”. Some say they poison crops to change stock prices in the economy.

People who believe in this theory state that they can tell the difference between normal contrails and chemtrails. They think that chemtrails linger in the sky longer than contrails. This of course is false.
In a 2016 poll, it was discovered that 30-40% of the United States population believed in the theory. In another 2016 study done by the Washington Post, 76 out of 77 atmospheric scientists found no evidence to support the chemtrail conspiracy.

Area 51

Area 51 is a US Air Force military installation but is known to the media as the location where the US government experiments with and hides supernatural beings. Social media has engrossed Area 51 for years because of the way “It is not accessible to the public and under 24-hour surveillance [and that] those who work fly in and out of a restricted terminal at McCarran International Airport on one of several unmarked planes permitted to fly through the airspace above” according to Britannica.

In 1989, Robert Lazar, an American conspiracy theorist and self-proclaimed physicist, told Las Vegas television reporter George Knapp that he had worked on “extraterrestrial technology inside Area 51” and saw autopsy photographs and reports of aliens within the facility, and also claimed that the government used it not as a military base, but as a place “to examine recovered alien spacecraft.”

Illuminati

The Illuminati conspiracy theory, which began in the 15th century, is a supposed secret organization that is seeking to create a world totalitarian government, assumed by or adopted by various groups of persons who claimed to be unusually enlightened. This government, which would consist of Illuminati members, would have reign over the entire world.

A study done in 2016 showed that 23% of Americans believe in the Illuminati. Theories about who runs the Illuminati vary. 
“The Illuminati adopted antique codenames to avoid identification. Weishaupt was ‘Brother Spartacus’, named after the gladiator who headed the insurrection of slaves and kept Rome in terror for three years. Weishaupt aimed to find young zealots – using Freemason lodges as a recruiting ground – and knit them together with secrecy. Initially, anyone over thirty wasn’t trusted.”

Bigfoot

The mythological creature, Bigfoot, has been a story told in many ways and cultures. According to Canadians, their term for Bigfoot is Sasquatch, and in Russia, they call it Yeti. Bigfoot is considered to be an “undiscovered hairy humanoid,” according to Natalie Wolchover, a writer for ‘Live Science.’

Mark Mancini, writer and fact checker for the magazine ‘The Week,’ shares “Texas veterinarian Melba S. Ketchum claimed last November to have proved via a Sasquatch DNA sample that the legendary apes are partially human. She even went so far as to insist that the government recognize them as “‘an indigenous people and immediately protect their human and Constitutional rights.’”

Old conspiracy theories that have been around for a while and new ones are all still carried around in people’s minds, all take part in how people as animals with brains and thought show as an outlet for people’s questions and theories that get created in the hemisphere.

Categories A&E

Wordle captivates all ages; ‘I tried it one time and I loved it’

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By MIA ARANDA, ISAAC MEJIA and JASMINE ROSALES

Acquiring all green boxes in a row represents successfully solving the Wordle for the day. (ISAAC MEJIA/ Ethic News visual)

The web-based word game, Wordle, has captivated both teenagers and adults to challenge themselves with their daily word game. 

The basics

The object of the game is to figure out the five-letter word within six tries in a grid. Upon attempting a word, colored boxes will surround each letter indicating the status of that letter. 

If the box is gray, it means that letter is not used in the word. If the box is yellow, that letter is in the word, but not in the spot where it was placed. If the box is green, that letter was correctly placed. Five green boxes are needed to successfully complete the challenge. 

The New York Times bought the game from creator Josh Wardle on Jan. 31. 

Its popularity 

Despite Wordle seeming to have a fairly basic concept, its accessibility, stimulation, competition and simplicity have allowed the game to garner much popularity. 

Citrus Valley High School sophomore Makenna Buhrow said, “I think Wordle is a great game to improve strategy and critical thinking.”

Wordle’s easy accessibility compared to other word-based games can be attributed to it being a web-based game which doesn’t require an app download. 

Eva Shinnerl, Redlands East Valley High School Advanced Placement Composition and English 101 teacher, plays Wordle with her class most days. She was reading The New York Times online when she first discovered Wordle. 

Shinnerl said, “I read one day that there was this word game that everyone was playing and I like certain types of word games.”

“I tried Wordle one time and I loved it,” continued Shinnerl. 

Anders Carlson, REV senior, first heard about Wordle while listening to the radio on Super Bowl Sunday.

“Usually fourth period rolls around and I play it,” says Carlson. 

He shares that he has gotten around a 94% win streak, thereby indicating that he wasn’t able to solve the Wordle 6% of the time he has played. 

REV senior Noah Snodgrass learned about Wordle from his father. Snodgrass would play everyday and even had a streak for about 40 days. 

Mia Altenbach, REV sophomore, said, “It was during quarantine. I was bored so I got a bunch of word games and that was one of them.” 

In addition to being a brain teaser, Wordle also boosts one’s mental health and can serve as an outlet to free stress. 

Carlson said, “It’s like a release.”

“It just gives me something to focus on,” said Altenbach. 

Strategies

Many people have different words or strategies that they use when attempting to solve Wordle. Often times, people will begin with a word that has many vowels in order to see which vowels are in the word, if any. 

Buhrow said, “My go-to words are ‘mince’ or ‘teary.'”

Michelle Stover, who teaches AP Chemistry and regular chemistry at Citrus Valley, said, “I always start with either the word ‘route’ to eliminate vowels or ‘alter’ to eliminate consonants common in words.” 

Wordle variations 

The success of Wordle and the attraction to its daily challenge has prompted many variations of the game, especially to quench users’ thirst for more brain-teasers since Wordle only presents one word challenge per day. 

For example, some of the spinoff games amid the multitude of variations are in different languages, such as those in Spanish and French, those specific for math enthusiasts, like Nerdle and Numberle, and even more complex versions, like Absurdle and Sexaginta-quattuordle. 

Categories A&E

Review: “Heartstopper” puts LGBT representation into a more accurate light

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMERSON SUTOW

Originally starting as a graphic novel by Alice Oseman, “Heartstoper” has gained traction as a Netflix Original Series that was released on Apr. 22, 2022. The show follows a boy by the name of Charlie Spring and the trials and tribulations of being a gay teen in the Truham Grammar School for Boys.

Consisting of only eight episodes, the story has many forms of LGBTQ+ representation, including same sex couples, closeted LBGT students, and a transgender student. Although they are the main characters, their sexuality does not take over the entirety of their personalities like some other shows trying to show LGBT representation. Each character has a complex relationship with themself and who they are, along with the friendships between them and their classmates. 

One notable character is Elle Argent, a transgender student who recently transfered to the all girls school, Harvey Greene Grammar School for Girls, also know as Higgs. The show depicts her not being accepted and continuously called by her deadname and incorrect pronouns at school, which is a sad reality for many trangender people. 

The show takes place in England and begins with Charlie being in a toxic relationship with a boy named Ben. He had been using Charlie while he was still in the closet, causing a lot of pressure on Charlie making him feel more like an object to Ben than a boyfriend.  

Nick Nelson is then introduced as the tablemate of Charlie in his new form (or homeroom). Nick fits the straight rugby player stereotype and so Charlie is told to abandon his feelings for Nick after confiding in his friends, Elle, Isaac Henderson, and Tao Xu. His relationship with Nick continues and they eventually become close friends as Nick had asked Charlie to join the rugby team for his speed. 

This angers many of the characters including Nick’s friends on the rugby team and leads to many homophobic remarks to be made. This bullying is another sad reality for being an out member of the LGBT community and is more accurately representing than having the token gay kid as a side character trope. 

In the meantime, Elle is at Higgs and she finds a small group of friends, Tara Jones and Darcy Olsson. It is later learned they are a lesbian couple and furthers the representation past just the boys relationship. 

The rugby team, unaware of Tara’s relationship, tries repeatedly to get Nick to go on a date with her, as they kissed when they were younger. But Nick was too preoccupied with questioning his sexuality and developing feelings for Charlie. After taking many “am i gay?” quizzes and researching online, he comes to terms with being bisexual because he developed a crush on Charlie. 

This leads to another common situation where Nick isn’t ready to come out and face the harsh reality of his classmates’ views but still wants to be with Charlie. They are unofficially together  in secret with only telling their close friends who fully accept and respect them. 

Nick begins to bring Charlie around his friends and they then go to see a movie, with the promise that Ben and Harry(the leader of the group that often bullies Charlie) will not be there. Consequently, Henry is there and continues to give Charlie a hard time for being gay which leads to Nick standing up for him and getting in a fight with Harry which ends with Harry being suspended. 

After these events, Nick is ready to come out and officially be Charlie’s boyfriend . There is a very heartwarming scene where Nick’s mother accepts her son and his confession and his relationship with Charlie. 

Although the show has a bit of a happy ending, this is not the end of the story. The graphic novel already goes beyond the show with Nick and Charlie’s relationship and Netflix has announced the show will have 2 more seasons to follow more on their lives.

What’s up with Marvel: What to expect from “Thor: Love and Thunder”

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMMITT MURPHY 

After months of patient waiting from fans, the first trailer for Marvel’s highly anticipated “Thor: Love and Thunder” was finally released to the public on April 18, 2022. Directed by Taika Waititi, the movie is to follow Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth, as he attempts to find peace and lay down his weapons but is forced to return to battle when the God Butcher Gorr, played by Christian Bale, threatens the extinction of the gods.

An alternate poster for the film showing Natalie Portman as the Mighty Thor (Credit to IGN)

The movie takes heavy influence from Jason Aaron and Esad Ribic’s comic run on “Thor: God of Thunder” due to the scene showing Faligar the Behemoth’s corpse being a one for one recreation of the comic book panel. Gorr also originated from this run, and since then he has been widely regarded as one of the best Thor villains to date due to his incredibly dark nature and his somewhat agreeable stance on the virtue of the gods, which Nick Fury even approved of. 

According to Waititi, this might be the same in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), stating “In my humble opinion, we have probably the best villian that Marvel’s ever had in Christian Bale.” (via The Associated Press)


The movie also takes influence off of another Jason Aaron book simply titled “Thor” which is the introduction of Jane Foster as the titular character. The short eight issue story follows Jane as she becomes worthy of the power of the legendary hammer, Mjolnir, after Thor himself becomes unworthy. Alongside fighting mythical beings, Jane is also fighting an ongoing battle against breast cancer, which is ironically prolonged by Mjolnir due to the fact that the radiation from chemotherapy is constantly wiped from her body because of the hammer’s healing properties. It’s unclear how much of the origin is being lifted from the comics, but considering Marvel’s track record, it’s safe to assume that a good chunk will be adapted from the comics.

“Thor: Love and Thunder” is lining up to be a solid entry into the MCU if its inspiration is any indicator and with Waititi at the helm, the movie is set to be fun and wild as any of his other films.

Categories A&E

Review: “Wake Me When I’m Free” multimedia exhibit explores Tupac’s life beyond rap

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By KAELEE CONTRERAS 

Located in Los Angeles, California, the Tupac museum experience, “Wake Me When I’m Free,” is a tribute to the late rapper Tupac Shakur and the significance of his life. Not only is this museum filled with amazing visuals and exhibits, but it also shares many of Tupac’s poems, songs and his upbringing.

One of Tupac’s poems displayed in the entrance of the museum. (KAELEE CONTRERAS/ Ethic News photo)


This museum was a listening experience and required a headset to listen to Tupac’s music, his interviews, events that took place in his life, and much more. Simply aim the remote at a small sensor and listen to the audio designated with the exhibit.

An example of the remote is displayed in the image on the right. (KAELEE CONTRERAS/ Ethic News photo)

As visitors walk through the museum and view these stunning exhibits, they are able to listen to the meaning and background story to each section and also get to take time for photo opportunities. One of my favorite visuals is the painting of Tupac as seen in the middle image above. (KAELEE CONTRERAS/ Ethic News photo)

Tupac’s music, poetry and life had a very big impact on the world and has inspired millions of people to express themselves and pursue their dreams. He was a positive role model for people and was a very talented and influential artist. (KAELEE CONTRERAS/ Ethic News photo)

One room of the exhibit was filled with a rose scent and displayed falling petals along with with an excerpt from a poem written by Tupac. (KAELEE CONTRERAS/ Ethic News photo)

Tupac Shakur was widely known for being one of the best-selling music artists and sold more than 75 million records worldwide. What a majority of people don’t know about Tupac is how he began his music career as a rebel with a cause to fight for injustices endured by people of color. His music brought awareness to injustices, gun control, equality, social injustices, immoral acts and many other world issues. Due to his gangsta rap music aesthetic, a majority of people misunderstood what he stood for and saw him as a bad influence and a nusiance for society and youth.

Growing up, Tupac lived with his mother and his sister and lived a very difficult childhood. His mother, Afeni Shakur, was an American political activist and a previous member of the Black Panther party. Due to being charged with drug possession, Afeni was arrested and pregnant with Tupac while imprisoned. 

Tupac’s childhood included a lot of literature, and also him getting into trouble and involved with the company of criminals. He was exposed to violence at a very young age.

The young artist began rapping at the age of 14 and started making music to project his political view and fight against racial injustices poetically.

Tupac’s music career took off after he studied poetry, theater and music in high school and soon after became a roadie and backup dancer for the rap group Digital Underground in 1990. The growth of his music career and talent was very significant and his legacy still lives  on today even after his life was unjustly taken from him at such a young age.

The museum exhibit features information on Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur, and the Black Panther Party. (KAELEE CONTRERAS/ Ethic News photo)

The Decoders Podcast: Talking about the Tupac “Wake Me When I’m Free” Exhibit

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

Hosted by MARCO GARCIA GARCIA, SYDNEY HAMMONDS and CARLIE GONZALEZ

7 minute listen

Twenty students from Orangewood High School took a field trip to the Tupac Shakur “Wake Me When I’m Free” Exhibit in Los Angeles on April 27. Carlie Gonzalez, junior, asks Marco Garcia Garcia, junior, and Sydney Hammons, senior, about their experience visiting the exhibit and about Tupac overall.

Retro Review: Mobb Deep proves they are the most “infamous”

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By NATHAN DENNIS

New York’s legendary Queensbridge duo “Mobb Deep,” consisting of members Prodigy and Havoc, deliver their monstrous second album “The Infamous” released on April 25, 1995, through Loud Records. The album “The Infamous” consists of 16 tracks with a total length of 1 hour and 6 minutes, primarily produced by Havoc, with outside producer and rapper Q-Tip, from the Queens hip hop group “A Tribe Called Quest” contributing as a producer and mixing engineer.

The album has guest appearances ranging from Nas, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Q-Tip, Big Noyd and Crystal Johnson. The album is accessible on all streaming platforms and has been labeled with the Parental Advisory sticker by the Recording Industry Association of America because of the explicit content throughout the album.

The album consists of the tracks and preludes:

1. The Start of Your Ending (41st Side)

2. (Infamous Prelude)

3. Survival of The Fittest

4. Eye for a Eye (Your Beef Is Mines) (Feat. Nas & Raekwon)

5. (Just Step Prelude)

6. Give Up The Goods (Just Step) (Feat. Big Noyd)

7. Temperature’s Rising (Feat. Crystal Johnson)

8. Up North Trip

9. Trife Life

10. Q.U. – Hectic

11. Right Back At You (Feat. Ghostface Killah, Raekwon & Big Noyd)

12. (The Grave Prelude)

13. Cradle To The Grave

14. Drink Away The Pain (Situations) (Feat. Q-Tip)

15. Shook Ones Pt. II

16. Party Over (Feat. Big Noyd)

The album’s lead single “Shook Ones Pt. II” was released on February 3, 1995 and an official music video was released on YouTube on Oct. 20, 2013. On “Shook Ones Pt. II,” both rapper’s Prodigy and Havoc define somebody who’s shook or fearful when confronted with a dangerous situation. Following the album’s lead single, “Survival Of The Fittest” was released on May 29, 1995, “Temperature’s Rising” was released Sept. 18, 1995 and “Give Up The Goods (Just Step)” was released on Jan. 22, 1996. The consecutive singles have an official music video released onto YouTube.

Havoc was interviewed by HipHopDX on April 25, 2020, for the 25th anniversary of The

Infamous, reflecting on how impactful the album was on their lives, the influence the album had on hip-hop culture and their life experiences shaping and molding the creative process during the creation of the album.

Havoc says, “Yeah, I have to say that. I don’t know if that sounds cliche as to whatever it is, but if it wasn’t for that album, I wouldn’t be talking 25 years later about it. So I would have to say that that is definitely my favorite album for more reasons than one.”  

“Go Ask Alice” remedies reading rush

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By CYRUS ENGELSMAN

“Based on a true story” is often used to describe events to add dramatic effect to a story or moral.  However, the term itself is not always genuine, as the definition of the term can be very loose and leading. 

The story of the book “Go Ask Alice ” uses this term for its advantages.  The story entirely takes place through journal entries of an unnamed female character, and her descent into the world of drug use and abuse.  The story has dark themes of drug use, sexual assault and death.

This story starts with an unnamed teenage woman who receives a diary as a gift, which she uses regularly to write about how she feels about herself and the world around her.  One day, when she decides to go to a party the woman was invited to, the people of the party decide to give the young woman psychedelic drugs without her knowing.  This was a major turning point for the woman, as she turned to a life of drugs and the effects they bring to a person’s life.  

Beatrice Sparks published “Go Ask Alice” in 1971 and has since been frequently challenged as a banned book. (CYRUS ENGELSMAN/ Ethic News photo)

The remainder of this article will contain spoilers for the book. 

The book itself has had a lot of controversy because of readers questioning the legitimacy of the story and how it is portrayed.  In the middle of the book, the woman loses her diary, and gives journal entries with any paper material she could find, napkins, paper bags, and other items of that regard.  

This itself has raised many questions, who recovered the notes? When did the notes take place?  These questions have made readers question how real the book itself is. 

Another reason readers question the legitimacy of the book is because the book’s genre is considered a Young Adult Fiction, despite the book claiming being “A Real Diary.”  

Despite the rumors and theories of the legitimacy of the story, the moral and themes of substance abuse and sexual assault are still relevant to this day for many despite the book being over 50 years old.

At the end of the book, immediately after another journal entry, the reader is left to discover that the young woman has died, presumably, from a drug overdose.  Though the cause of death is not explicitly said, this death is sudden and emotional.  

After hearing the young women’s struggles with abuse, sexual assaut, and the life of an adolescent away from home, all stemming from an addiction to drugs, it sets a fear into the readers mind. A fear that is still real and many have to this day.

This book is a hard read from start to finish, but has an important message about drugs and their effect on someone’s life.  The reason the book is hard to read is because it felt very real, like a real person one could know and understand.  This book is recommended if the reader can handle uncomfortable topics.  Despite the difficult topics and themes, the story has an important message on the world and the people on it.  

As the main character of the story would say, “Why is life so difficult? Why can’t we be just ourselves and have everyone accept us the way we are?”  

Coachella doesn’t disappoint after 2 year hiatus

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By ELIZABETH MOLLOY

On Friday, April 15, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival kicked off its first weekend. This is the first weekend since 2019 the festival has commenced because of COVID-19 restrictions. Some of the biggest names performing this year include Billie Eilish, Phoebe Bridgers, Harry Styles, Doja Cat, Megan Thee Stallion and Swedish House Mafia returning.

 The Spectra building returns with beautiful colors alongside the Coachella Ferris Wheel at night.  (Courtesy of Vivienne Igbinosun)

One of the headliners of the festival, Kanye West, publicly pulled out of Coachella just over a week before he was set to perform. The Weeknd joined the artists as a last-minute fill-in for West. Swedish House Mafia performed alongside the Weeknd, exactly ten years after the group first performed at Coachella.

Harry Styles headlined the festival for the first time, just two months before his third album release. During his set, he brought out singer Shania Twain to perform and sang two brand new songs of his own. Just last month, Doja Cat announced she will be retiring from music after eight years. The singer did honor her commitment to the festival as she had been set to perform for quite some time. This is the tip of the iceberg of all the memorable moments the festival has held this year.

With a diverse lineup and new big names, this festival has been a memorable one. Another detail to note is the rise in popularity some artists have experienced since 2019. For example, Doja Cat was one of the biggest names this year while in 2019 the singer was just on the rise. Italian band Maneskin also made their Coachella debut this year and performed a song that was made in support of Ukraine. Some familiar faces who did not make a return to the festival include Tame Impala, Childish Gambino and Ariana Grande. Likewise, the festival provided new faces and new debuts.

Another event returning this year was the Revolve Festival. This is a festival that happens at the same time as Coachella held by the online retailer Revolve. At the festival, influencers can shop and enjoy music and art. This event is invite-only, meaning that only influencers the brand personally invites can attend this event. Some of the most prominent people in attendance include the Kardashian-Jenner family, Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothee Chalamet and more household names.

This year, the festival also provided many critics. Many attendees of the Revolve event have commented on long lines, shuttle timing and even comparison to “Fyre Festival.” Fyre Festival was a 2017 festival that gained a negative reputation and met an ill fate. On a lighter note, the festival was a great start to returning to “normal” life. After two years of COVID-19 restrictions, the festival was a turning point in returning to normality.

The Batman raises the bar of comic book movies

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMMITT MURPHY

Warning: This review has spoilers.


When it comes to comic book movies, no character has had a better track record than Bruce Wayne, better known as Batman. From Tim Burton’s 1989 adaptation simply titled Batman, a film that shot the defender of Gotham into worldwide popularity, to Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy, which revolutionized the comic book genre and gave one of if not the greatest comic book film of all time in The Dark Knight.

Matt Reeves’s The Batman can be added to the caped crusader’s repertoire of great comic book films, giving a gritty detective film featuring the world’s greatest detective that is beautifully shot, well acted, and genuinely refreshing in a genre that is slowly being filled by more and more mediocre films.

Like any great comic book films, The Batman took influence from many great Batman comics and it shows. The film prominently took from Batman: Year One, a four issue series detailing the beginning of Bruce Wayne’s escapades as the dark night, and Batman: The Long Halloween, which takes place in Batman’s second year of crime fighting, like the film, and follows him trying to hunt down the allusive Holiday Killer.

Year One’s influence in The Batman is noticeable from the start, as the film depicts Bruce early on as Batman showing how he’s still learning the ropes when it comes to being Batman and how he’s not quite as competent as Bale or Keaton’s rendition just yet. This take on Batman is incredibly interesting as it shows him making mistakes, like how he crashed into a bridge while fleeing the cops. Mistakes like that give Batman a sense of relatability and are a good way to show that Batman is still human and still makes mistakes.

The Long Halloween’s influence on the film is far more prevalent to the point where the first issue of the book was handed out in some theaters across the country. Both the book and the film dive into the relationship Bruce Wayne’s parents had with the mob boss Carmine Falcone, called “The Roman” in the book. This dynamic proposes the idea that the Wayne family weren’t always good people and explores how Bruce would react to that which is handled very well in both the film and the book. There are also some scenes from this film that are one-to-one recreations of comic panels like Catwoman and Batman’s first meeting, where in both the film and book Batman discovers Catwoman stealing information about Falcone. The Long Halloween is one of Batman’s greatest books and if you have any interest in the comics, it is a must read.

Outside of the previously mentioned comics, the love for the world of Batman and him as a character is seen very clearly in Matt Reeve’s direction. His impressive attention to detail can be seen in his interpretation of Gotham, depicting it as a cesspool of crime and corruption where it feels like Batman is the only solution to this problem. The love for the Batman mythos is also clearly on display in the screenplay, written by Peter Craig and Matt Reeves, due to how well each character is fleshed out and written. The Penguin is a good example of this, as he is generally seen as the comic relief character but still works very well in the world and doesn’t stick out too much.

Speaking of the characters, every single performance in the film was steller and perfectly encapsulated each of the character’s comic counterparts. The lead role in the film is of course Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne/Batman. Pattinson’s portrayal of Batman is fantastic, delivering a genuinely terrifying and intimidating version of the character using mostly subtle facial expressions, mainly with his eyes. His Bruce Wayne is also very interesting, because of how broody and simply edgy he is as opposed to the cocky, playboy persona that is put on in most interpretations.

Another standout performance in the film is Paul Dano as the Riddler, which is pretty surprising because the character is usually portrayed as a pretty goofy character in most media. This is completely changed with Reeve’s writing and Dano’s acting, giving an incredibly terrifying and very unique take on the character. Dano’s riddler is a perfect villain for this film, a shut-in orphan who believes he is helping Gotham by being its “vengeance” by brutally and publicly executing corrupt officials and causing overall mass terror becuase he looks up to Batman. This pushes Batman to realize he must not only be the city’s sword, but also its shield. Dano is usually a standout actor in any film he’s in and that is no different here, where he perfectly plays this psychopathic character with his eerie and creepy performance making him feel like a genuinely good horror villain as opposed to a standard, basic supervillain.

The only issue with the movie for some are its pacing which is very similar to Blade Runner 2049, meaning that movements by the character’s are made intentionally slow to build suspense. While this kind of pacing does put some members of the audience on the edge of their seats, some could be taken out of the movie due to the runtime.

Overall, The Batman is an amazing comic book film and one of the best adaptations of Batman to date, giving an excellent early years story for the dark knight with amazing writing, cinematography, and performances to boot. Hopefully The Batman will push comic book films to create enthralling stories like this in the future.

Revealing the truth about fairy tales

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By KENDRA BURDICK 

For a very long time, authors and screenwriters have rewritten the original fairy tales that taught lessons and didn’t have the happiest ending for the characters. Though these fairy tales might be gruesome compared to the cushiness that people are used to, they teach precepts and it’s important to know where some of the most famous fairy tales come from.

The book “Snow White” was originally written by the Grimm brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm, in 1812. This story was retold for a more PG revision by Disney in 1952. (KENDRA BURDICK/ Ethic News photo)

Pocahontas

The story of Pocahontas is already embedded in United States history, but many people don’t know the truth behind the animated Disney glamour. John Smith made his way to America, he was in his 30’s. 

Pocahontas, 10-year-old or 12-year-old, and Smith actually never had a romantic relationship. She was kidnapped and then forced to marry John Rolfe, an Englishman. Then, she was forced to convert her name to Rebecca and her religion to Christianity. Unlike the Disney’s version, an unknown cause led her to her death in her 20s.

“She lives on through her own people, who are still here today, and through the descendents of her two sons,” says the article “Pocahontas: Her Life and Legend” of the National Park Service.

Ariel

Named after the goddess of old, the sea witch Ursula gets visited by the little mermaid. She makes the mermaid a deal to exchange her voice and tongue for legs. The only way to get them back is to win over the prince’s affection. 

In the real version, the mermaid doesn’t get a happy ending with her prince and he marries someone else. Heartbroken, the mermaid gets an ultimatum, she must kill the prince in order to live. Even after agreeing, it’s too hard of a deed for her and she ends up not going through with it. 

The e-paper “Sunday Chronicle,” written by Deccan Chronicle, states, “She eventually dissolves into foam. But as her spirit floats in the sky, she gains a soul by having to carry out good deeds for 300 years.”

Snow White

Snow White’s tale begins with her mother, the original queen, sewing in the winter. Disney decided to not add-in this scene. According to Grunge, a news site that reveals the truth about misunderstood stories, the main reason for Disney not adding the fact that the new queen (the Evil Queen) is a witch is because they didn’t want to scare children and they also had a fear of upsetting religious people.

Grunge says, “It’s a bit surprising Disney didn’t mention this, since nowadays they’re notorious for hitting you in the face with dead parents in many of their films.” 

As the story goes, Snow White meets the seven dwarves and lives with them. The huntsman is sent after her and she meets him while picking apples.

The huntsman puts his knife over Snow White’s heart but then she begins to beg and plead for her life. Similar to the animated story, the huntsman spears her life because of her beauty. Also, in the original tale, he thinks to himself that an animal will eat her soon and do his job for him. 

He takes the queen a pig’s lung and liver to provide evidence that he had done his deed. But the queen finds out that the organs are fakes and non-human so she decides to take matters into her own hands.

In the movie, the queen tries only once, but in the original tale, she tries three times. First, she makes her alias as an elderly woman and convinces Snow White that she’s selling bodices. Snow White allows the disguised queen to help her try them on, and the queen tightens the laces so Snow White cannot breathe. The queen flees, the dwarfs save her and she lives.

The queen makes her second attempt by dressing as an old woman who is selling combs. Snow White tests the comb, which turns out to be poisoned, and it paralyzes her. Snow White gets saved again by the dwarfs, removing the poisoned comb just before it would have killed her. Then, the queen tries to kill her with the poisoned apple which Disney did add into the movie, which the dwarfs had not saved her from.

At this time, the prince and Snow White have had no contact with each other, but the prince randomly had met the seven dwarfs. They tell him the story of what they had been through. 

Sometime after Snow White fell under the death of the apple, he requested to see her because “he can’t live without looking upon her beauty.” Once he sees her, he makes his servants pick up her coffin and then carry it to the castle.

One of the servants that were tasked with carrying Snow White’s coffin, tips and drops the corpse dislodging the chunk of the poisoned apple that was stuck in her throat the entire time. There was no magic kiss like in the Disney version. But, she gains life, meets the prince for the first time and agrees to marry him.

As for the happy ending, the prince accidentally invites the queen to the wedding. When he realizes his mistake, he gives his guards orders to make her dance with iron shoes that were heated until they’re red hot. 

Another twist from the original tale is that Snow White is seven-years-old for the entire story, thus she meets the prince when she is a child.

Grunge says, “He [the prince] basically wants to wander off with a seven-year-old’s corpse. And then when she wakes up, he marries her!”

Cinderella

The story of Cinderella is not what it seems. For starters, Cinderella’s father doesn’t die but he does help embarrass Cinderella with the stepsisters and stepmother. Cinderella goes to her mother’s grave and says a prayer to the headstone. Instead of a fairy godmother, the gown and slippers just appear on her, making it seem like a gift from her exanimate mother. Her family doesn’t recognize her when she attends the festival, not a ball. 

This is where the prince falls in love, but like the Disney film, she does lose her slipper. When the prince looks for her, the stepsisters cut their feet to fit into the slipper. Due to finding blood in the slipper, he figures out that they know who the mystery girl is. 

Cinderella and the prince have their happy ending, but the stepsisters don’t. They ask Cinderella for a favor and birds peck out their eyes.

Fairy tales have been around for centuries and are still being told to children. They teach lessons about life and give warnings about bad behavior. The original versions of these stories have been censored from children’s books, TV shows and movies which deprives people from learning the original tale and its lessons.

Wildcat artists place at San Bernardino County art show

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By CYRUS ENGELSMAN

Several Redlands East Valley High School students received recognition for their art on March 15.

The Young Artists Gallery Reception is an annual event hosted by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and Riverside Inyo Mono San Bernardino

California Arts Project in association with The Arts Education Network.  

A total of 27 schools entered the competition and 177 pieces of art were judged for the event.  The categories of the show were drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, digital art, comic art, ceramics, mixed media and film/animation.  

Out of the 177 pieces of art juried at the show, there were four winners from REV. 

“Living in life, that’s probably the best inspiration that I get,” says second place winner REV sophomore Mia Altenbac said. “Things that just come naturally I find inspiration from that.” 

The following art pieces are the winners from REV.  The winners were also recognized at REV’s spring rally on April 8.

Redlands East Valley High School student Jay Gutierrez, third place winner, sends in this piece for the art category. (Courtesy of Tracy Massimiano)

Redlands East Valley High School senior Luke Loomis wins second place with a ceramic cup for the competition. (Courtesy of Tracy Massimiano)

Second place winner Mia Altenbach has her digital art piece sent in for the competition. (Courtesy of Tracy Massimiano)

First place winner and Redlands East Valley sophomore, Matthew Thorig, displays their drawing piece.  (Courtesy of Tracy Massimiano)

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness official trailer

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By NADIA CENICEROS 

The official trailer for the movie “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” was released on Feb. 13, 2022, after a commercial was released during the 56th Annual Superbowl. The official trailer is two minutes and 17 seconds long and was originally in “Spider-Man No Way Home” second post credit scene. Marvel Studios later released the teaser trailer on Dec. 22, 2021 that spanned for two minutes and 11 seconds. It will be directed by Sam Rami who has also directed all the Tobey Migure Spiderman movies.

The official poster for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (Credit to Marvel Studios)

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” will be released on May 6, 2022 and will focus on the multiverse that has been mentioned in some Marvel movies and shows, such as “Loki, Spider-Man: No Way Home” and “What If.” The multiverse is described as alternative universities which share a universal hierarchy.

Actor Benedict Cumberbatch will be playing Doctor Strange (Stephen Strange). In the trailer, it has been confirmed that Supreme Strange will be in the movie. Supreme Strange is an evil, more powerful version of Doctor Strange. Supreme Strange was introduced in the Marvel Show, “What If.”  

Actress Elizabeth Olson, who plays The Scarlet Witch (Wanda Maxmioff), will also be in Multiverse of Madness. The Marvel Cinematic Universe will also be introducing comic character America Chavez played by actress Xochitl Gomez.

Categories A&E

Citrus Valley hosts 2022 prom fashion show

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMILY WALOS 

Lights, Camera, Wonderland. 

On March 18 2022, Citrus Valley High School’s Associative Student Body put on their annual prom fashion show; however this year there was a twist. At the show, all information including the prom theme, date, ticket prices, and location were released.  

Citrus Valley’s prom theme was released by ASB senior secretary,  Miyah Lopez and social member, Bella Moreno, opening a banner that displayed “Ace: a Night of Wonder.” 

The theme is based off of the fictional story of Alice in Wonderland, specifically the characters the King and Queen of Hearts. 

Prom is scheduled to take place at Desert Willow Golf Course from 7-11 p.m. 

The fashion show itself contained seven groups, three couples and, a new addition to the show this year, four groups of three. 

The show began at the beginning of lunch in front of the E-building with the masters of ceremonies Senior Pep commissioner  Elise Kollar and Junior President Sydney Hageali gathering students around the runway. From there the first couple, senior model Ariana Nelson and senior model Landon Campos, were announced. 

After each couple or group made their way down the runway, they split at the end of the risers and each hit three poses. They then came back together and performed a handshake. Each handshake was unique, from twirls to dips to even money flying into the crowd. 

Trio senior model Sierra Alexi, senior model Wendy Gonzalez, and senior model Luchiano Swidan utilized real money during their handshake as the three of them threw a combined total of $100 in fives into the crowd. 

Students where able to grab and keep the money that was thrown into the crowd (BELLA ESPINOZA/Ethic News)

Alexi stated that, “I remember when we first threw money, it was unexpected because the whole crowd was just standing there stunned but then the realization and excitement kicked in and they started running to get the money.” 

The stage itself was ornately decorated in the theme “Deck of Cards,” as all four styles of playing cards were used. The runway was lined with cards as well as a black carpet to match the color theme of black, white, red, and gold. Cards were scattered over the windows that provided the backdrop to the runway, as well as on the poles that hung over and next to the stage. 

Balloons played a key factor in the show as three were placed on each side of the runway as well as a massive balloon arch in the theme colors that flew above the stage. 

During the reveal of the theme, single bouquets of balloons were brought out to be given to the audience. Hand decorated crowns were also brought out with the balloons. On the crowns the theme name was front and center, and students were able to wear them for the remainder of the school day. 

Clothing for the show was provided both by the sponsor Men’s Wearhouse, as well as personal items each model had at home. Men’s Wearhouse provided the show with six suits. Each boy that was provided a suit was able to choose from any of the selections that the store provided them. 

This year was the first year ASB utilized fully volunteered models. (BELLA ESPINOZA/Ethic News)

Steve Guiterrez, a senior that walked in the first ever boy trio, “They [Mens Wearhouse employees] treated us kindly even though it was completely sponsored by them, they treated us with respect and they made sure we were fitted and knew how to get dresses without their help.” 

Model include: Ariana Nelson, Landon Campos, Brody Moss, Madisen Habchi, Jakob Ibarra Garcia, Maddie Hernandez, Ryan Hill, Andrew Castillo, Jacob Weber, Emily Reyes, Chloe Cousineau,  Eddie Barajas, Aaron Roque, Peter Rodriguez, Steve Gutierrez Flores, Abby Gonzalez, Sierra Alexi, Luchiano Swidan, Emily Walos, Paige King, Miyah Lopez, Bella Moreno (BELLA ESPINOZA/Ethic News)

Rewind review: Top 21 flicks for teens to stream from 2021

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By KENDRA BURDICK and AVA LARSON

With the 2022 Oscars that went live March 27, some teenagers are rewatching some films from 2021.

 “My favorite movie from last year was Spiderman because it was a marvel action movie,” stated by Ryan Bhatti, freshman from Redlands East Valley High School. 

“Encanto is my favorite movie of 2021 because of its good quality, the music, and the culture,” said REV junior, Abigail Key. 

Below is a list of the best movies for the teenage demographic to rewatch.

Numbers shown for each movie indicate worldwide gross amount according to Box Office Mojo.  

#1 Spiderman: No Way Home 

Box office: $1.776 billion

Peter Parker faces new threats with his identity as spiderman now out in the public. Going to Doctor Strange for help creates a bigger problem when the multiverse breaks and villains from different universes start affecting his life. 

Where to watch: Currently still in many movie theaters; will be available on Starz in upcoming months 

#2 No Time to Die 

Box office: $774.2 million

The newest James Bond film is a continuation of the specter movie in 2015. James bond comes back to 007 to find a bio weapon that is threatening to create a mass genocide.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu

#3 Venom: Let There be Carnage 

Box office: $502.1 million

When Eddie Brock interviews a death row inmate, a piece of venom gets attached to the insane criminal which creates carnage. Carnage creates chaos while seeking revenge for a past lover. 

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu

#4 Godzilla v. Kong

Box office: $468.2 million – In this film, two of the most iconic monsters in cinema history face off for the first time on screen. The film takes place on a fictional island called Farou Island where King Kong has been living since his last bout with civilization in New York City. When Godzilla emerges from hibernation, he heads straight for King Kong’s home on Faroe Island to fight him again.

Where to watch: Hulu, YouTube, Vudu

#5 Dune 

Box office: $399 million – “Dune is a science fiction movie based on the book series “Dune,” were a young man with a gift must travel to different planets in order to save his family and people. And while trying to survive with his mother, he realizes that his dreams are his future reality.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu

#6  Shang-Chi 

Box office: $360 million – Shang-Chi is a Marvel superhero, who first appeared in Special Marvel Edition #15 (1974). This film, released on September 3, 2021, follows Shang-Chi as he trains with his father to take revenge on the man who killed his mother and father. Shang-Chi is a martial artist who has superhuman abilities like super strength, speed, agility and reflexes.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney+

#7 Black Widow 

Box office: $379.6 million

Natasha Romanoff or Blck Widow fights alongside her family to take down the leader of the black widow program which brain washes women into killing machines. 

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney+

#8 Eternals 

Box office: $300 million – The film follows the story of a group of people who are born with special abilities and are known as “The Eternals”. When there is a threat to humanity, they must work together to save their race.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney+

#9 Free Guy 

Box office: $331.5 million – Normal bank teller realizes that his normal life was actually a video game. When he realizes that no one’s going to save the day, he steps up into the role. Decides to be the hero in his own story.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu and will be available on Disney+ this month

#10 Sing 2 

Box office: $293.1 million – Sing 2 is a sequel to the 2016 film Sing. It follows the adventures of Buster Moon (a koala), Rosita (a pig) and Johnny (a mouse) as they try to save their theater from being bought by an evil corporation. They sing and work together to save the theater.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu

#11 Encanto 

Box office: $233.9 million – A family that was given a gift when they were going through their worst. Every member has their own special ability that’s connected to the magical house,  except Mirabel. When their house begins to die, she’s the one to break it and rebuild it into something better.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney+

#12 Cruella 

Box office: $233.2 million – The film stars Emma Stone as Cruella de Vil and explains how fashion can cause blood to spill. A revengous woman, working for the woman who killed her mother, takes on the task of outshining her boss while under cover.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney+

#13 Jungle Cruise 

Box office: $220.9 million – In the film, a group of scientists is on a mission to find the source of a new and deadly virus. They are looking for answers in an area where there have been no human settlements for decades. The only thing that they know about this area is from satellite images and old maps. The film has all the elements of a classic adventure movie with twists and turns around every corner.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney+

#14 Ghostbuster: Afterlife 

Box office: $196.7 million – Ghostbusters: Afterlife 2021 is a sequel to Ghostbusters 2020. The film follows the members of the original Ghostbusters squad as they work to stop a new team of ghosts from destroying New York City in 2025. In Ghostbusters: Afterlife 2021, there’s a new generation of ghosts who are out for revenge and want to destroy New York City. The film follows the original Ghostbusters squad as they work to stop this new team of ghosts from destroying New York City in 2025.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu

#15 

The Matrix Resurrection 

Box office: $153 million – In this sequel to The Matrix (1999), Neo (Keanu Reeves) discovers that his role as The One implies greater responsibility than he ever imagined in a computer-generated virtual reality known as “the Matrix.” In order to save Zion–the last human city–Neo must defeat a powerful artificial intelligence program called Agent Smith (Jonathan Groff). Neo wakes up, but he doesn’t remember anything about his life or who he really is.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, Apple TV, Amazon prime video, Vudu

#16 Space Jam 

Box office: $162.8 million – Professional basketball player, Lebron James, and his son get stuck in a digital world. In order to get home safely, he must team up with the Looney Tunes to defeat the rogue AI in a basketball game.

Where to watch:  Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Youtube tv, HBO max, Google play movies and tv

#17 Halloween kills

Box office: $131.6 million – Halloween Kills 2021 is a horror film that was released in 2020. The movie is about a group of friends who are all invited to a Halloween party by their friend, but when they get there, they find out that the night has been planned by the murderer who killed their friend.

Where to watch: Youtube, appleTV, Amazon Prime video, and Vudu

#18 Old 

Box office: $90.1 million – A tropical family trip turns into a thriller that has them running out of time. They find out that the beach that they’re staying at is causing them to age drastically. The entire family only has one day to live.

Where to watch:Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu

#19 Luca $49.8 million – A little boy that’s bound to the sea, meets a boy that has no fear and helps him go on land. With the two of them ending up in a competition with a creative girl teammate, staying away from water to keep their secret gets difficult.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon prime video, YouTube, Google play movie and TV, Vudu, Disney plus

#20 Don’t Look Up $784,681

Don’t Look Up is a sci-fi thriller, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The film follows the story of an engineer who has created a device that can predict the future. The story is set in 2021 and focuses on the dangers of predictive analytics and how it can be used to manipulate people’s lives.

Where to watch: Netflix

#21 Red Notice $178,143

The world’s second best jewelry thief clashes against an FBI agent and the world’s number one thief to try and find egypts lost Cleopatra’s eggs. Facing many obstacles they must work together and trust each other to get the treasure.

Where to watch: Netflix  

Daniel craig in 2021’s newest bond film, came out in october 8th 2021

Staring Timothee chalamet, Dune came out on october 22, 2021

The new Venom movie starring Tom Hardy, came out on October 1, 2021

Lights, camera, action: what Wildcat & eAcademy performers have to say about Spring Showcase

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By ISAAC MEJIA

The Redlands East Valley High School theater department presented its Spring Showcase on Friday, March 11. While the department traditionally performs a musical in the spring, this year they decided on a showcase in which students were allowed to perform and collaborate on acts of their choosing. 

The show consisted of many scenes from popular movies and tv shows including “Mean Girls” and “Victorious” as well as acts from acclaimed musicals such as “Hamilton” and “In the Heights.” 

“My favorite part has been working with my friends, and seeing how talented everyone is. Getting to act is amazing, but my favorite part [is] having fun with other actors,” said Connor Bromberger, a senior at REV. 

REV senior ​​Leilani Baldwin said, “The people are so supportive and loving. Needless to say, they are some of the most fun people I know.”

Many of these acts required students to work together creatively for weeks. 

Grace Castell, a senior at REV, said her favorite part about the showcase “has to be working with my friends. There’s never a dull moment with them.”

Bella Mia Fraley, a freshman at Redlands E-Academy said, “Being on stage, the lights, the sounds, it’s all so fun, and I hope I can do more productions with this school in the future.”

While preparing for the showcase was full of excitement, performers admit that the process was stressful at times. 

Nina Brown, a freshman at E-academy said, “The preparation process has been really stressful, but also really fun. It’s always fun to go to rehearsal and practice.”

Ella Fletcher, a senior at REV, said the showcase was “definitely a little stressful, but that is always a part of performing onstage because performers care so much that what you see onstage is as perfect as possible.”

(From left down to right down) Evie O’Brien, Lizeth Lopez, Rose Blatchley, Ella Fletcher, Dana Hatar and Megan Rimmer starred in Ex Wives from “Six” the musical. Their performance was the closing act of the night. (ALISSON BERMUDEZ/ Ethic News photo)

Junior Evie O’Brien (left) and senior Connor Bromberger (right) stand next to each other with weaponry during their portrayal of Henry vs his Demons. (ISAAC MEJIA/ Ethic News photo)

The actors and actresses of the showcase had their own unique individual experiences. Behind the scenes, the tech and stage crew had their own experiences as well.

eAcademy freshman Dakarai Marshall said “I have learned a lot more than I expected, such as using power tools. I have had fun learning these life lessons and skill sets that I will benefit from forever.”

Moments before the show, the cast sits around the set patiently waiting to be called by the tech crew for their last mic check. (ALISSON BERMUDEZ/ Ethic News photo)

Liliana Arroyo (left) and Lelanie Baldwin (right), two of the soloists of the night, pose for a picture outside of the theater room.  Arroyo performed “Hopelessly Devoted To You” from Grease while Baldwin performed “Breathe” from In the Heights. (ALISSON BERMUDEZ/ Ethic News photo)

(ISAAC MEJIA/ Ethic News video)

For some students, the Spring Showcase marked the beginning of their theatrical career at REV. However, for seniors, the showcase was the last time that they would set foot on the Blackstone Theater Stage and perform in front of a live audience.

Fletcher said, “I am happy to be a part of this production, but it is a little bittersweet. I do wish it was a full show though, but I’m happy to be involved!”

“It’s a surreal feeling to know this is the last time I will walk on and off of the Blackstone Theater stage as an attending REV student, ” said Baldwin. “I had grown so much in my craft in this very building.”

 “I do wish we could have done an actual play, but having the freedom to create a scene on our own is still just as great,” Catell said. “As long as I have fun and get to be with my friends, then I don’t mind! I will miss all the people I got to work with once I graduate though.”

What’s up with Marvel? Moon Knight enters the Marvel Cinematic Universe

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMMITT MURPHY

An image of advertising for Moon Knight. Moon Knight premieres March 30 only on Disney+ (Credit to Disney+ and Marvel)

Marvel Studios published the first trailer for the show “Moon Knight,” the next installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe on Jan. 17. The show will follow Steven Grant, played by Oscar Issac, as he battles with dissociative identity disorder, also known as DID, and eventually becomes the fist of Khonshu, Moon Knight.

Moon Knight first appeared in issue #32 of Doug Moench’s “Werewolf by Night” in 1975 and it wouldn’t be until 1980 where he would get his first solo series, which laid out the groundwork for his character in the comics. Moon Knight started as the mercenary Marc Spector who was fatally wounded by his employer, Raul Bushman, and then revived by the spirit of the egyptian moon god Khonshu. 

After he was resurrected and beat down Bushman, Spector developed DID which led to the development of his three alter egos—the taxi driver Jake Lockley, the billionaire Steven Grant and the vigilante Moon Knight. 

Steven’s DID is a major point of contention for fans, considering the fact that its portrayal could make or break a story. With the show reportedly taking inspiration from Jeff Lemire’s 2016 run on Moon Knight, which had explored Marc’s mental state and made the reader question what was real or not. 

The exact details about the characters alter egos in the show is unknown but it is known that Steven Grant will not be a billionaire in the adaptation. Instead, he will be a mild-mannered gift shop employee who wants nothing of what’s happening to him. It’s unknown if his origin from the comics will be adapted into the show, but it’s an extremely safe assumption that the show will follow a similar story, at least with Khonshu.

For the antagonists of the show, Marvel had decided to dig for some rather obscure villains from their comic book history, starting with the main antagonist Arthur Harrow played by Ethan Hawke.

In the comics, Arthur Harrow was a Nobel Prize candidate due to his work in medicine and was set to win the prize if he wasn’t caught with secret Auschwitz-Birkenau documents that he stole to cure his trigeminal neuralgia, which paralyzed the whole left side of his face. He then decided to kidnap subjects to experiment on and someday cure his paralysis before he was eventually stopped by Moon Knight.

The strangest thing about Marvel’s choice to pick Harrow is the fact that the character appeared in only one issue from volume #2 of “Moon Knight” and was never seen again. Judging by the trailer, the character seems extremely different from his comic counterpart where he seems to be a leader of a cult-like group, not a Nobel Prize winning scientist.

The other known antagonist for the series is the Midnight Man played by the late Gaspard Ulliel. Midnight Man, or Anton Mogart, first appeared in “Moon Knight #3” is Moon Knight’s direct counterpart, a thief who’s shtick is that they only appear at midnight. The character’s role in the show is currently unknown so there is no telling how much about the character will be lifted from the comics.

Moon Knight premieres March 30 on Disney+. It is described to be one of the more brutal entries to the MCU and is “the first legitimate Marvel character-study since ‘Iron Man’” according to Oscar Issac.

Review: Disney’s “Encanto” showcases Colombian culture through music and appearances

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By DESTINY RAMOS

Disney’s “Encanto” is a fantasy film taking place in Colombia that was released on Nov. 21, 2021. “Encanto” tells the story of the Madrigals, an extraordinary family with magical gifts, and one Madrigal who wasn’t given a gift. The movie revolves around Mirabel, and what happens when she notices that the miracle, the reason that the family has gifts, is slowly beginning to die.

The showcase of Colombian culture was extremely successful through matters of appearances of not only the characters but their Encanto, their refuge, as well. Colombian culture is also showcased through other things such as the movie’s cast, music and colors. 

The family’s Casita, their home, is set in an “Encanto” as the family called it, located in the Colombian mountains. Their home’s location ensures that the family will never be faced with the danger of an invasion that sent Abuela Alma and Abuelo Pedro fleeing from their home 50 years earlier. This invasion caused Pedro’s death and the birth of the family’s miracle.

Disney’s “Encanto,” meaning enchantment, presents the Madrigals, an extraordinary family of 12 with magical powers. (Credit to Walt Disney Pictures)

Present-day, the family has grown with six children between Alma and Pedro’s triplets Julieta, Pepa and Bruno. The family was introduced during the first song of the movie, “The Family Madrigal” sung by Abuela’s fifth grandchild, Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz).

In the song, she maps out their family of 12 and their powers. She explains the triplets Pepa (Carolina Guitan) whose moods affect the weather, Bruno (John Leguizamo) who can tell the future but who also disappeared and Julieta (Angie Cepeda) who can heal with food. 

Pepa is married to Felix (Mauro Castillo) and has three children, Dolores (Adassa) who has super hearing, Camilo (Rhenzy Feliz) who can shapeshift, and Antonio (Ravi Cabot-Conyers) who is yet to get a gift later that night. 

Julieta is married to Agustin (Wilmer Valderrma) and also have three children, Isabella (Diane Guerrero) who can grow flowers, Luisa (Jessica Darow) who has super-strength and Mirabel who is the only Madrigal child without a gift. 

Much color and structure are showcased in the four-minute song. The colorful embroidery on the family’s clothing and within their hometown embodies the color used in cultural clothing in Colombia. Not only this, but the structural aspect of the town replicates actual towns within Colombian cities, big and small. Strong and bold colors that are used in the movie’s town are used within real Colombian cities such as Bogota.

The characters’ appearances are the most important aspect to the movie’s cultural background. The character’s skin tones, eye colors and hair textures vary. They show how different Colombians can look and prove that the idea of Hispanic alike is not only brown skin and brown eyes. Pepa is light-skinned and has green eyes, Julieta has brown-skin and dark brown eyes, and Bruno has darker skin and light brown eyes showing the varying looks, genetically, of Colombians and other Hispanics.  

Along with the character appearances, the entire cast of the movie is one of the most diverse casts in a Disney movie. The casting was specific to each character, following a different cultural background than a typical Disney movie. Typically, Disney movies have characters of European descent, rather than those of Hispanic, black or native descent.

During Antonio’s gift ceremony, the whole town celebrates with the Madrigals and is not limited to just the relatives. The ceremony is an important aspect of Colombian culture. In every region of Colombia, any and all achievements are celebrated with big parties where it’s common for the family, big or small, to invite the entire village to celebrate with them. 

After some time spent within the family’s Casita and at Antonio’s gift ceremony, the next song of the movie, “Waiting on a Miracle,” is presented by Mirabel. Though the song does not have any cultural aspect, it shows Mirabel in a vulnerable state which is important to the plot. She tells herself to not “feel regret or [sadness] at all” and explains that she is still “a part of the family Madrigal.” The song evokes pity among the audience for Mirabel, knowing now how she truly feels about not being “special” like the rest of her family.  

The rest of the movie goes into more depth of the miracle and Bruno, but never gives a reason why Mirabel never received a gift. Fans of the movie have their theories, such as the thought that Mirabel would be the next candle holder after Abuela’s passing. Perhaps the answer will be given in future projects featuring the Madrigals.

The songs from the movie, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, were huge successes on their part. Songs such as “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” ”Surface Pressure,” and “The Family Madrigal” had hit and stayed on the Billboard Top 100 for almost a month, with “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” being number one for three weeks. Other songs in the movie included, “Dos Orugitas,” “What Else Can I Do?,” “All Of You,” and “Colombia, Mi Encanto.” 

According to Rottontomatoes.com, the movie‒running at one hour and 39 minutes, has received a rotten tomato score of 91% and an audience score of 93%. It has made over 95.4 million dollars at the box office. 


Overall, the movie succeeds in every cultural aspect that can fit into a 100-minute movie. If there are any future “Encanto” projects, fans are hoping to see an exploration of Colombian culture as well as other members of the family.

What is “Elden Ring”?

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMMITT MURPHY

At the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2019, FromSoftware, creators of the “Dark Souls” series, “Bloodborne” and “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice,” announced their collaboration with novelist George R. R. Martin in a new action role-playing game titled “Elden Ring.” 

The character shown above is Malenia Blade of Miquella, who is one of the games 50+ bosses and was heavily featured in the game’s marketing and even has a statue in the games collector’s edition (“Elden-Ring-100619-005” by instacodez is licensed under CC PDM 1.0)

“Elden Ring” is the largest game FromSoft has produced and will follow a similar formula to the “Dark Souls” series with a hard yet fair difficulty, a heavy reliance on dodging and parrying, bonfire-like checkpoints, and many challenging and intrucit bosses.

The player will control a blank-slate created character known as a “Tarnished,” similar to FromSoft’s previous titles. The Tarnished’s goal will be to collect the shards of the shattered Elden Ring and become the “Elden Lord.”

The game will most likely take a more non-linear approach to storytelling by allowing the player to slowly unravel the world of “Elden Ring” through item descriptions and character interactions. The game has also been confirmed to not take place in the “Dark Souls” world.

As a Tarnished, the player will explore the open world of the “Lands Between.” Bandai Namco Entertainment, the publishers of the game, says the Land Between have “vast fanatical landscapes and shadowy, complex dungeons that are connected seamlessly.” 

FromSoft’s previous titles always carried more linear paths in their games, but “Elden Ring” will be completely open world with nearly limitless amounts of exploration for the player. 


The Lands Between is substantially more colorful and vibrant than any previous FromSoft title. The “Elden Rings” Director Hidetaka Miyazaki said that this was intentional and the team “wanted to give a sense that a Golden Age has passed through this world and that players can still see traces of it.”

Alongside the typical Souls-like mechanics, “Elden Ring” will introduce new additions to the gameplay loop, such as a proper jump and crouch button or even traversal options like summonable mounts. Mounts were included to accompany the large open world and help in it’s exploration while crouching was added to implement stealth into the game, with players being able to sneak past enemies and try to avoid confrontation.

While a jump button was always present in “Bloodborne” and the “Dark Souls” trilogy, it always felt rather lackluster and was only used a handful of times in the games. In “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice,” a traditional video game jump button was finally implemented into a FromSoft game. 

The jump in “Elden Ring” won’t be at the same caliber as “Sekiro,” but it will be better than anything in the “Dark Souls” series to complement the open world.

After the release of “Elden Ring,” it is predicted that the game will receive downloadable content like all of FromSoft’s previous titles. After the post-launch content, it is relatively unknown what FromSoft will do. 

The safest prediction is a “Armored Core” reboot. 

In a 2016 interview with the Japanese site 4Gamers, Miyazaki said that three big projects were in the works at FromSoft. 
With two of the three projects being “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” and “Elden RIng,” it’s assumed another “Armored Core” game will be next as it was heavily hinted at by Miyazaki.

Part 3 of 3: Marvel takes first step into multiverse with “Spider-Man: No Way Home”

Published on by Ethic News2 Comments

By DESTINY RAMOS and EMMIT MURPHY

Warning: The following article contains spoilers.

Read Part 1 https://ethic-news.org/2022/02/16/act-1-marvel-takes-first-step-into-multiverse-with-spider-man-no-way-home/ and Part 2 first https://ethic-news.org/2022/02/17/act-2-marvel-takes-first-step-into-multiverse-with-spider-man-no-way-home/

Out of the many Spider-man: No Way Home movie posters circulating, this appeared to be one of the more popular ones based on fan feedback and sharing on social media sites. (Credit to Marvel Studios)

Distraught from May’s death, Peter flees from the building without contacting any of his friends, who are obviously worried after the fight. In a desperate wish to see his friend, Ned accidentally uses Strange’s sling ring to open a portal to Parker.

But the portal they open is not to the Peter they expected, but to Peter Parker of “The Amazing Spider-Man” films played by Andrew Garfield. 

During Garfield’s interviews for the 2021 movie “Tick..Tick.. Boom,” he was constantly asked if he was in the movie, but denied it until the release.

“I wasn’t expecting to ever have a conversation again about potentially playing Peter Parker. I felt very excited just to be a fan again. But I got this call from Amy Pascal and Kevin Feige and Jon Watts with this idea. It was immediately undeniable. It sounded incredibly fun, incredibly spiritual — trippy and thematically interesting. On a base level, as a Spider-Man fan, just the idea of seeing three Spider-Men in the same frame was enough,” Garfield told Variety.

Mj and Ned are shocked that he had opened a portal that took Strange weeks to first open. Not only that, but now a Peter from a different universe was in the dining room. Confused and untrusting, MJ throws bread at Peter until he agrees to prove he is truly Spider-man by hanging and crawling on the ceiling, which he does. 

The two are still confused, but figure they will try again to reach the correct Peter. In an attempt to do so, Ned opens a portal to Peter Parker from Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man” films played by Tobey Maguire.

In the Deadline interview with the three Spider-Man actors, Maguire had stated, “I was intrigued immediately, like, in that conversation, the kind of love and celebration of these movies and what it meant, I think, to Amy [Pascal] and Kevin [Feige] was apparent. And to me, when artists or, you know, people who are steering the creative process have a kind of authentic, genuine intent of celebration and love, it just was so apparent in both of them, that, I don’t know, I just wanted to join that.” 

When they first meet, the two Peter’s are slightly confused with Raimi-Verse Parker saying “wait that’s not your friend” when referring to Webb-Verse Parker. The two Parkers then start a very brief fight where Webb-Verse Parker realizes that Raimi-Verse Parker is Spider-Man as well. The two then decide they need to find the MCU Peter Parker, and ask Ned and MJ if there would be any place he would go to “get away from everything.” MJ knew where to find their Peter from this comment and, with Ned, found their Peter on the roof of Midtown High. 

After embracing their friend and giving their condolences, MJ tells Peter that “there’s some people here” to see him, introducing the other Peters to their Peter. At first, MCU Peter was frightened by seeing the two Peters, and was angered when they first spoke to him saying that they ‘understood’ what Parker was going through when he thought they didn’t. Parker said they did not understand “what [he’s] going through” before Raimi-Verse Peter responded with the death of Uncle Ben and Webb-Verse Peter responded with the death of Gwen Stacy. 

After they share their understanding of “with great power comes great responsibility,” they decide to get to work on cures for the villains. The following scene develops the chemistry between the Spider-Men with a shocking reveal of Raimi-Verse’s webbing or even the Spider-Men pointing at each other with the script saying, “All three point at each other: Him? Memes!” 

After developing the cures and Ned’s reassurement that he will not turn into a villian and kill MCU Peter, the Spider-Men set up at the Statue of Liberty and MCU Peter uses J. Jonah. Jameson and the Daily Bugle to broadcast his location to the villains. Before the final battle, the Spider-Men indulge in small talk, like how exactly the Raimi-Verse Peter’s webs work or the most dangerous villains the Spider-Men have ever fought.

Their dialogue is interrupted by their spider-senses going off followed by the strike of Electro’s lighting and the reappearance of Sandman and the Lizard. MCU Peter quickly throws the Machina de Kadavus to MJ and Ned who are still at Midtown High. 

In the pursuing battle, the Peters attempt to take the villains on together but quickly find out that they are really bad at working as a team. The Spider-Men meet in the scaffolding of the Statue of Liberty and discuss how to properly work as a team. It’s at this moment where MCU Peter brags about being on the Avengers in which the other Peters respond with a confusion on who the Avengers are.

Ready to take their threat head on, the Spider-Men leap back into action and start taking out the villains one by one, starting with Sandman. The plan was to lure Sandman into the head of the statue and activate the collider to cure him.

The next target was Electro and to cure him by sapping the energy from his body to get rid of his electricity. The plan goes awry when Electro gets ahold of Webb-Verse and Raimi-Verse Peter, but luckily they are saved by the recently cured Otto Octavious. And he is then able to cure Electro and take away his powers. 

While Electro was being cured, MCU Peter was dealing with the Lizard who had tried to attack Ned and MJ due to Ned’s inability to close the portal. After chasing him out of Midtown High, MJ throws the Lizard’s cure to Peter and he manages to bring Curt Conners back to his human form.

With the villains cured, Ned and MJ try hiding the Machina de Kadavus but end up opening a portal to Doctor Strange who had been “dangling over the Grand Canyon for twelve hours” and is about to send the villains back to their universes until he sees that MCU Peter’s plan is working.

With Octavius now at the scene, he is finally reunited with Raimi-Verse Peter who share a very heartwarming few minutes that reference the first scene the two had together in the 2004 film. Meanwhile, Electro, now powerless, has a conversation with Webb-Verse Peter and praising him for everything he does and mentioning that he thought Peter would be black, to which he apologizes for.

Electro’s hope is referencing Miles Morales of the 2018 film “Spider-Man Into The Spider-Verse.”

The peace was broken by the return of the Green Goblin, who implanted a pumpkin bomb inside the Machina de Kadavus. Green Goblin’s return to the scene had ensured one of them would be hurt or almost killed, this being MJ. 

Goblin’s pumpkin bomb had blown MJ off the structure into harm’s way and MCU’s Peter immediately jumps after her but is unsuccessful in catching her as Goblin’s glider pushes him away before he could reach her. Webb-verse Peter watches as all these events occur, then jumps and catches MJ without a second thought. 

Fans went crazy in theaters realizing he completed the task he once failed with his girlfriend, Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) who tragically died by his hand in “The Amazing Spider-Man 2.”

Peter begins to cry after landing and making sure MJ was okay, remembering the same incident that caused Stacy’s death in the 2014 film. 

“We were shooting for two weeks, Tobey and I, but I think we managed to achieve something that is not just showing up and going, ‘Hi! Bye!’ My Spider-Man got to save his younger brother’s romantic relationship, potentially,” Garfield told Variety. “And to heal the most traumatic moment of his own life through doing it for his younger brother. Making sure that he didn’t have the same fate, there’s something cosmically beautiful about that. It meant getting a second chance at saving Gwen.”

Gobin is now the last villain that needs to be cured. When MCU Peter is able to confront him and tells him he’s going to kill him himself, he throws constant punches while Goblin laughs through every hit.

 As soon as Peter gets Goblin down for the final time, he grabs the same glider that killed May, in hope of killing him with it. Before he gets the chance, Raimi’s Peter steps in as a way of telling Peter not to. Right at that moment, Goblin unexpectedly stabs Raimi’s Peter. Webb’s Peter then throws Goblin’s cure to MCU’s Peter who immediately gets the satisfaction of doing the same thing to Osborn.

Fans who were afraid for Raimi’s Peter were relieved when he said he’s “been stabbed before.”

While the villains had all been cured, there was still the issue of the multiverse collapsing onto the MCU, which was caused by the Goblin’s previous pumpkin bomb. The cracks in the multiverse are seemingly irreversible until MCU Peter offers a solution, making everyone forget Spider-Man and Peter Parker are one and the same. Strange hesitates but eventually agrees and tells Peter it would be best to tell his friends goodbye for the last time. 

Peter first stops by the other Spider-Men and together have the biggest brotherly hug between any superheroes. He then stops to finally say goodbye to Ned, his best friend since his first movie, and MJ his girlfriend for the remainder of their time in the MCU. With one last promise to MJ telling her that he will find her after they forget him, the spell is cast and the multiverse is saved.

Epilogue

With everyone now forgetting who Peter Parker is, Parker heads to the coffee shop MJ works at with a speech to hopefully refresh her memory. When actually meeting MJ, Peter opts out of telling her and decides to keep her out of his life as Spider-Man. 

It is still possible that MJ has a slight recollection of Peter with the script saying, “HOLD ON MJ, watching Peter go with a lingering sense of… recognition”.

With his former life behind him, Peter moves into his new apartment after graduating from high school via a GED. He then suits up in a brand new blue and red Spider-Man costume that is “new for him, but reminiscent of suits he’s seen before” according to the script. He then flies over the RockefellerRockefeller Christmas tree with the last line in the script saying “Peter Parker is no more, but Spider-Man lives on…”

Part 2 of 3: Marvel takes first step into multiverse with “Spider-Man: No Way Home”

Published on by Ethic News2 Comments

By DESTINY RAMOS and EMMIT MURPHY

Warning: The following article contains spoilers.

Be sure to read Part 1 first: https://ethic-news.org/2022/02/16/act-1-marvel-takes-first-step-into-multiverse-with-spider-man-no-way-home/

A second marketing poster before the movie was released. (Credit to Marvel Studios)

A second  marketing poster before the movie was released. (Credit to marvel studios)

This is not the first time MCU fans have seen the multiverse. In earlier projects, the multiverse was hinted at in films such as “Spider-Man: Far From Home” and “Doctor Strange” but only proved to be real when the short series “Loki” and “What If…” were released in mid 2021.

Kevin Feige, the President of Marvel Studios, said, “The Ancient One mentions it in Doctor Strange, when she’s taking Stephen Strange through that sort of mind warping journey. It was always one of the most powerful storytelling tools in the comics. One you have to wield carefully, because it can get overwhelming. One that now with, obviously the 60 to 80 year history of the comics, now we have a 20 plus history of the movies and there are enough characters that we can start playing with it that way.”

Having 20+ films in the MCU provided enough material for the multiverse to finally come alive in “Spider-man: No Way Home” and future MCU projects, such as “Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness” which is said to feature the Scarlet Witch, Spider-man, and many other characters.

Parker leaves without knowing the multiverse has been opened. Now feeling completely hopeless, he attempts to make things better for his friends, who have endured the same amount of trouble Parker has, by meeting with someone from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). But during that time, Parker has an unexpected visit from none other than Otto Octavius, better known as Doc Ock (Alfred Molina) from the original Spider-Man films from 2002. Molina’s return as Doc Ock had been leaked long before the confirmation in the trailer that was released Aug. 30, 2021, but it was constantly denied. 

“When we were shooting it, we were all under orders not to talk about it, because it was supposed to be some great big secret,” Molina told Variety. “But, you know, it’s all over the internet. I actually described myself as the worst kept secret in Hollywood!”

“It was wonderful,” Molina stated. “It was very interesting going back after 17 years to play the same role, given that in the intervening years, I now have two chins, a wattle, crow’s feet and a slightly dodgy lower back.” 

Because of these concerns, CGI was used to disguise him to look the same as he did 17 years ago. This was all it took for Doc Ock to come alive once again, even though Molina had other concerns regarding fight scenes, but remembered the robotic arms did all the fighting and all he had to do was have “a kind of mean look on [his] face.”

Parker is confronted by Octavius. Minutes pass and the two are fighting because of a big misunderstanding. Octavius is not aware he is in a new universe, and believes he is fighting a different Peter Parker. When he finally realizes that Holland’s Peter isn’t the one he knows, Parker takes control of Octavius’s mechanical arms.

After Parker takes control of Octavious and safely saves MIT’s Vice Assistant Chancellor, he and his friends are accepted into the school with the Assistant Chancellor’s blessing. The short moment of peace is interrupted by the Green Goblin’s (Willem Dafoe) pumpkin bombs. As Parker is ready to head back into battle, he and Octavious are transported back to the crypt of Doctor Strange.

Dafoe’s reprisal of Norman Osborn was welcomed with open arms by fans and was received as well as his first time as the Goblin nearly 20 years ago in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man. 

Dafoe was very willing to return as the Goblin for the film on one condition, he wanted to do his own stunts. 

“To do this physical stuff was important to me,” the 66-year-old actor Dafoe stated. “In fact, one of the first things I said to Jon [Watts] and Amy [Pascal], basically, when they pitched it to me before there was even a script, was, ‘Listen. I don’t want to just pop in there as a cameo, or just fill in in closeups. I want to do the action because that’s fun for me. And also, because it’s really impossible to add any integrity or any fun to the character if you don’t participate in these things.”

Now, in captivity along with Octavius and Lizard (Curt Connors), Strange explains to Parker what is happening and that he needs to capture the last two villians and where to find them.

Parker heads to a forest in an all black suit, which seemed vaguely familiar, reminding fans of the black suit used in San Rami’s “Spider-Man 3” in 2007. Coming to a clearing in the forest, Parker finds Electro (Jamie Foxx) using the energy from power lines running through the forest. 

Foxx stated, “You know what I was excited, knowing Amy [Pascal] for years man, and knowing what she’s done with this franchise, and she was explaining to me it was gonna be hot you know.” 

Foxx also explained that “[he] didn’t have to be blue” which was a major point of contention for him and his character.

Dillons initial, and obvious, first move is to attack Spider-Man, and has the upper hand until Sand-Man, or Flint Marko from Sami Raimi’s Spider-Man 3 (Thomas Haden Church) is also revealed to be in the forest and saves Spidey. After the duo take down Electro and the newly introduced villains stop seeing Parker as a threat, Parker explains their situation. The two are then teleported to the same crypt the other three villains are being held in by Parker.

Now back at the crypt, Strange continues to explain to the three (and the villains in captivity) the concept of the multiverse and the fate of those being held, which was to be killed by Spider-Man, in their own universes. Now upset by this, Parker takes the ancient artifact from earlier in the movie and traps Strange in the mirror dimension seen in Doctor Strange. Now Parker believes it’s his duty to ‘save’ these villains so that their fate isn’t to die at the hand of Spider-Man.

Parker then takes all five villains and Aunt May to Hogan’s apartment where he uses the missing Stark tech that Hogan has possession of to accommodate each villain, with MJ, the artifact and Kaecilius’ Sling Ring safely at Ned’s home. Starting with Octavius, Parker (with the help of Norman Osborn, given he is also a skilled scientist) replicates the chip that keeps the robotic arms from controlling Ock and attaches it where it was before being destroyed. Immediately, Ock is met with relief. Every voice Ock has claimed to hear from the past is gone and he is able to control the arms on his own. Parker and Osborn are ecstatic knowing it worked.

The happiness doesn’t last long, as a moment after, Osborn’s second personality (Green Goblin) has made itself clear and begins to attack Parker because they “do not need [him] to save [them] and do not need to be fixed”. It isn’t long before all remaining villains begin to rebel and leave the building to avoid being ‘fixed’ and sent back to their universes.

Osborn and Parker fight in Hogan’s apartment for a while before smashing through multiple stories within the building. Before watchers know it, Parker and Osborn are in the main lobby of the apartment complex where the final moments of the fight take place. May, who followed Parker downstairs with the cures to the final three villains, Osborn, Lizard, and Sand-Man, tries to help Parker by injecting Osborn’s cure into him. To their surprise, it does not work, and now angered by this attempt, Osborn attacks May and Parker with the glider that killed him over 20 years ago. 

With no time to recover, Parker is caught more off guard as Osborn hops on the glider and leaves with a single pumpkin bomb left to finish the job. These attacks did not kill Parker as Osborn had wanted, but rather ended with the death of May with her uttering the famous words, ‘With great power, must also come great responsibility’ in one of her last breaths.

Read Part 3 here: https://ethic-news.org/2022/02/17/act-3-marvel-takes-first-step-into-multiverse-with-spider-man-no-way-home/

Part 1 of 3: Marvel takes first step into multiverse with “Spider-Man: No Way Home”

Published on by Ethic News2 Comments

By DESTINY RAMOS and EMMIT MURPHY

Warning: The following article contains spoilers.

One of the six official marketing posters for Spider-man: No Way Home that was released after the movie’s debut. (Credit to Marvel Studios)

The highly anticipated “Spider-Man: No Way Home” was released on Dec. 18, 2021, exceeding fan expectations by a landslide with all hopes, speculations and theories coming true. As of Jan. 21, 2022, “No Way Home” has made $707 million, just a little over a month of being in theaters.

The movie begins where “Spider-Man: Far From Home” left off with Spider-Man’s identity being revealed by J. Jonah Jameson (J.K. Simmons) of the Daily Bugle and the chaos that followed. Spectators see what happens with the now known Peter Parker (Tom Holland) and the trouble Mysterio (Jake Gyllenhaal) left after his passing. Not only is Parker’s identity on every news outlet in the city, but all the chaos interfered with his personal life and education as a high school student, with reporters on the outskirts of his home and school, and the students and staff watching his every move.

With the world now knowing Parker’s identity, legal trouble had found its way to Parker, his aunt May (Marisa Tomei) and friend Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau). Daredevil’s Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) had a surprise appearance as Parker’s attorney, leaving fans speechless as well as cheerful and excited for Murdock’s newfound role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).  

Marvel Studios president, Kevin Feige, confirms Cox will be returning as Daredevil in future MCU projects.

 “If you were to see Daredevil in upcoming things, Charlie Cox, yes, would be the actor playing Daredevil. Where we see that, how we see that, when we see that, remains to be seen,” Feige stated.

With Murdock’s appearance, the famous line fans adored so much came. As Parker was speaking to Murdock, a protester outside of Parker’s apartment had thrown a brick into the window which Murdock caught with his left hand having senses similar to Parker’s. With Murdock having caught the brick, Parker asked how he was able to catch it, to which Murdock replied with, “I’m a really good lawyer.” Fans absolutely adored this line and have created many jokes and memes associated with it.

Initially, Parker had trouble with his identity being revealed from paparazzi at his school to people vandalizing his suit but was ready to accept the consequences until his girlfriend MJ (Zendaya) and best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) were prevented from getting into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology because of his actions. Parker immediately attempts to fix everything for his friends. This entire segment of the movie, and the movie as a whole, accurately depicts Peter Parker’s selflessness by showing how he would do anything for anyone he cares about other than himself.

After his revelation, Parker goes to Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) in hope of Strange’s help to have all citizens of New York forget the identity of Spider-man. Strange, having lost his title of “Sorcerer Supreme” due to the 2018 blip shown in “Avengers: Infinity War,” refuses Parker at first, thinking there wasn’t anything he could do to help without his title, and knowing that Wong (Benedict Wong) would not help him.

Before Parker is able to leave, Strange then remembers another way he can help without the title of ‘Sorcerer Supreme.’ He then leads Parker into a basement, later revealed to be Strange’s crypt, where Strange begins a spell involving an ancient mystical device known as the Machina de Kadavus. The relic would be able to perform a memory wiping spell, so that everyone, including Parker’s loved ones, would forget who Peter Parker is. This does not sit well with Parker and asks Strange to have it so that certain people could remember who he was. Strange does, rewriting the spell time after time as Peter lists all the people he would like to remember him as Spider-Man. The spell was rewritten a total of six times before backfiring and unknowingly opening the multiverse.

Read Part 2 https://ethic-news.org/2022/02/17/act-2-marvel-takes-first-step-into-multiverse-with-spider-man-no-way-home/ and Part 3 here https://ethic-news.org/2022/02/17/act-3-marvel-takes-first-step-into-multiverse-with-spider-man-no-way-home/

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with sugar cookies

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By JASMINE ROSALES

Baking, in general, is always proven to be a good time whether it’s solo, with friends or with your loved ones. From countless sweets, the choices are unlimited. Valentine’s day, referred to as the day of love, these heart shaped sugar cookies are the perfect treat to share with that special someone. 

Servings: 25 cookies

Ingredients: 

Ingredients used for sugar cookies. (JASMINE ROSALES/ Ethic News photo)

2 and ¼ cups of all purpose flour

½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

¾ cup white sugar

1 large egg

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Optional: ¼-½ tsp almond extract

Instructions:

  1. Whisk the flour, baking powder and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Mixed dry ingredients (JASMINE ROSALES /Ethic News photo)

2. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the butter on medium speed-high speed until smooth for about one minute. Add the granulated sugar and beat on medium-high speed until creamed, about two minutes. Add the egg, vanilla and almond extract (if used) and beat on high speed until combined, about one minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed.

Wet ingredients mixed in a separate bowl (JASMINE ROSALES/ Ethic News photo)

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined. If the dough seems too soft, you can add 1 tbsp of flour for better consistency to roll.

Combined dry ingredients in big bowl (JASMINE ROSALES/Ethic News photo)

4. Divide the dough into two equal portions, then roll each portion out onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured silicone baking mat to about ¼ inch thickness. The rolled out dough can be any shape, as long as it is evenly ¼ inch thick.

One portion of rolled out dough. (JASMINE ROSALES/Ethic News)

5. Stack the pieces, with parchment paper between the two, onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least one to two hours, or even up to two days.

6. Once chilled, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment papers. Remove one of the dough pieces from the fridge and using a heart shaped cookie cutter, cut the dough into heart shapes. If needed, re-roll the remaining dough until all dough is used.

Using a heart shaped cookie cutter, make indents in dough. (JASMINE ROSALES/Ethic News)

7. Bake for 10-11 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges. Recommended to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for even browning.

Laying prepared dough on baking tray (JASMINE ROSALES/ Ethic News photo)

8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for five minutes, transfer to a cooling rack to fully cool the cookies. 

After cooling, it is ready to eat. (JASMINE ROSALES/Ethic News photo)

Once cooled, it can be decorated. Take a glass of milk and enjoy!

The Ghost brings the Havoc on “Wreckage Manner”

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By NATHAN DENNIS  

Content warning: Explicit language in song title 

New York’s legendary hip-hop icons, Havoc, from the Queensbridge Rap duo Mobb Deep, and Styles P, from the Yonkers Rap group “The LOX”, team up as a super group to deliver their self titled collaborative album “Wreckage Manner” on Dec. 3, 2021.  The album Wreckage Manner consists of 10 tracks with a length of 31 minutes, entirely produced by Havoc. The collaborative album is accessible on all streaming platforms and has been labeled with the Parental Advisory sticker by the Recording Industry Association of America because of the explicit content on the album. 

The collaborative album consists of the tracks: 

  1.  F— Around 
  2.  Move How We Wanna 
  3.  Fiend For 
  4.  Pay Me In Cash 
  5.  21 Gun Salute 
  6.  YO 2 QB 
  7.  Havoc and The Ghost 
  8.  Good As Gold
  9.  Hymn to Him 
  10.  Nightmares 2 Dreams  

The album’s lead single “Nightmares 2 Dreams” was released Nov. 18, 2021 and an official music video was released on YouTube on the same date as the album. Both rapper’s Havoc and Styles P reminisce about their journey from transitioning from street life into the music industry over snare, a hypnotic piano loop and patterned drums. 

On Jan. 22, Clockwork Music and Addictive Affairs present a one night only concert at Revolution Live featuring Havoc of Mobb Deep with Big Noyd and DJ L.E.S., Styles P of “The LOX”, Kool G Rap and special guest performance from Termanology. This is Havoc and Styles P’s first performance of their collaboration album “Wreckage Manner.” 

Havoc and Styles P have been interviewed as a collective with Breakfast Club Power 105.1 FM on Jan. 24 and the podcast Drink Champs under Revolt on Feb. 5, speaking about their life experiences, their careers in their respectable groups and their collaborative project. 

Havoc says, “One day I just woke up, I wanted to do a project with one of my favorite artists, Styles P was at the top of that list, you know what I’m sayin’, so I text him up, I hit him up, he was with it, sent him some music and we just did the thing.” 

Styles P says, “Wreckage synonym for havoc and manner is synonym for styles and we felt you know, we was bringing what we was bringing, but we was bringing it in a different way and respect to our respective groups LOX and Mobb Deep. He’s a member of the Mobb and I’m a member of the LOX. We’re gonna to give you that, but it was in a manner we was gonna do it and we felt like it was gonna be real accurate hip-hop that gives you a wreckage feeling, but with grace and style.” 

A&E hangouts: New Dirtbag cafe is grounds for more than just coffee

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By MIRIAM YORDANOS and MARSHALL SCOTT

In Redlands, California, there are countless cafés to satisfy coffee cravings. Yet, Dirtbag Coffee offers the experiences of a coffee shop embedded in the heart of historic downtown Redlands. Within the shop, in addition to a hot cup of joe, apparel and merchandise is offered, created by Aaron and Angie Ohama, who founded Dirtbag Coffee on Feb. 19, 2021.

The front of the coffee shop seen from State Street. Dirtbag Coffee Shop has unique seating arrangements compared to other coffee shops. (MIRIAM YORDANOS/ Ethic News photo)

During a trip with her husband, Angie Ohama was in need of motorcycling gloves. After stopping at a shop and trying to find gloves, the Ohamas were motivated to open their own business. 

Dirtbag Apparel makes homemade items, such as crewnecks, rings, different types of jackets, leather bags, scrunchies and more. The items that are not homemade are from small and local businesses, including young entrepreneurs. For example, Dirtbag sells scrunchies that are made from a small business run by an 11-year-old girl. 

Dirtbag Apparel Shop is attached to Dirtbag Coffee. Dirtbag Coffee opened after Dirtbag Apparel Shop. (MIRIAM YORDANOS/ Ethic News photo)

Krystal Cannon, the manager and sales associate of Dirtbag, loves that the store always has something new each day. Cannon states, “It’s an experience here. What we have to offer and our value here. We have really put faith first and do value that anywhere and we make that the stable of our foundation.”

Originally a customer, Cannon would visit whenever in town and soon became close friends with the owners. Cannon discovered the local shop accidentally and fell in love with the coffee cafe. 

While walking into Dirtbag, there is a strong scent of coffee. The building has plants, a bunch of different colors and a very distinctive aesthetic. Step back outside and Dirtbag is surrounded by a community of many different shops on state street.

Gabby Valencia, a barista and sales associate, said,  “The aesthetic is pretty unique. The owners’ ride motorcycles and are very outdoorsy so they have a very collective style. We have funky chairs and I really like the vibe.” 

Unlike other coffee shops, Dirtbag doesn’t charge an extra amount for dairy substitution.  Besides coffee, they offer various Italian sodas and teas. 

Similar to other coffee shops, Dirtbag has different menus for different seasons at a time. Their current best sellers are mocha latte, vanilla latte, caramel latte and dirty chai latte.

Valencia enjoys seeing the regulars often and feels lucky to be a part of someone’s day, especially when they come in often.

One of Valencia’s favorite customers comes in often after having an art class. Her favorite drink is the Brown Sugar Latte, which happens to be a winter item from their summer edition menu.

Valencia says, “Our coffee is great too, but I mean in Redlands you could go to a million other places for coffee and it’s going to be good coffee. So, what we try to make a more unique experience is our customer service and our environment and everything else.” 

Currently, Dirtbag Apparel has a few selected items on sale and a new menu for the winter season. Check out the new menu and sale at their location on 204 E. State St.

A&E hangouts: The Olive Market’s impact on historic Redlands

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By AVA LARSON

The smiling faces of adults and children, the smell of pastries and coffee, wafts in the air, as soon as someone enters the Olive Avenue Market. 

The front of the Olive Market that can be seen on Olive Avenue. (AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS)

In historic Redlands, California, the Olive Avenue Market sits on the corner of West Olive Avenue and South Michigan Street.

The shop is filled with vintage candies, soda and drinks.

There are many seating areas in and around the Olive Market. The patio in the back has many picnic tables, benches and even a small play area for kids. It’s surrounded by plants and has a beautiful view of all the Victorian houses. 

The back patio of the market. In the back patio, customers, there is a place for children to play and walk around. (AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS

In the back patio, there is seating available for customers to dine. (AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS)

After being built in 1924, the Olive Market shared their shop with one of the first ever  Stater Bros Market from 1939-1974, according to the oliveavemarket.com.

At the Olive Market customers have a variety of drinks that they can choose from that come in many flavors and sizes. (AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS)

Sonia Rozzi, one of the owners of the Olive Market, says, “The little things make a difference, like knowing our customers’ orders before they even get to the counter.”

The logo of the olive market.(AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS)

Rozzi loves that the market has become a local hang out and makes people feel comfortable and welcome. Kids and teens from all over Redlands love coming to the market for a snack before or after school.

According to Rozzi, many of the older customers came to the Olive Market when they were kids.

Many of the customers have become friends with the employees and owners.

Michelle Buckman has been coming to the Olive Market since before they had ceramic cups. She walks everyday and always stops by the market with her friends.

The olive market’s seating on the side and in the back of the building.(AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS)

Employee, Sean Corrigan, says, “The Olive Market is my second home, and I love for anyone to come to visit me, and I want people to feel welcome.”

Many people take their kids to the market to get pastries and drinks, like Marty Morision, who takes his kids to get hot chocolate and cookies.

The market also has a great brunch menu on the weekends that includes avocado toast, pancakes, different omelets and many more items.

The Olive Market’s brunch menu is only available on Saturdays and Sundays. (AVA LARSON/ETHIC NEWS)

The market opens at 7 a.m. and closes at 2:30 p.m. daily.

Spotify Weekly Playlist: Sad songs for a sad hour

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By SALVADOR BARRERA

Sometimes you feel bummed out and you need to cry. These songs are here to support you for when you do. These songs provide comfort with artists such as Ricky Montgomery who are able to sing about emotions you never knew you had.

Line without a hook by Ricky Montgomery

Mr Loverman by Ricky Montgomery

Heather by Conan Gray

Bubble Gum by Clairo

Love Like you by Lizz Robinett

Strawberry Mentos by Leanna Firestone

Hopelessly devoted to you by Glee

My heart is buried in Venice by Ricky Montgomery

Snow by Ricky Montgomery

A soulmate who wasn’t meant to be by Jess Benko

Suneater by Leanna Firestone

A&E hangouts: Redlands Ramen has oodles of noodles for hungry students

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By SPENCER MOORE

Redlands Ramen is the latest noodle stop located in the newly created Packing House District, a few blocks from historical downtown Redlands. Redlands Ramen was opened on Sept. 18, 2019, and has since been a success.

Two bowls of noodles with add-on toppings chicken and egg on Oct. 30. Redlands Ramen allows customers to customize their orders. (MIA ARANDA/ Ethic News photo)

A very strong street art vibe and underground influence is felt in Redlands Ramen. There are paintings and murals everywhere, with artwork reminiscent of downtown Los Angeles culture. While interesting, some of the murals may turn away more conservative and family audiences, as some of the murals feature suggestive imagery and partial nudity.

A mural highlighting various rappers in an artistic intepretation is shown at Redlands Ramen on June 17. (MIA ARANDA/ Ethic News photo)

Bryan Ramirez, the lead server at Redlands Ramen for over two months said, says that one of his favorite elements of the shop is “the inviting environment, along with the employees here with great personalities, with the cooks being especially full of integrity.” Ramirez feels this sets their restaurant apart from the competition.

The noodle shop also has a bar section, active at night, with the very late hours allowing for a midnight noodle run if you get hit by late night cravings, as many teens are often struck by. 

Because of the long hours, the different times of day have very different feelings, regarding the atmosphere. For instance, in the afternoon, it is a much more expected and serene atmosphere for an eatery in a small shopping district, but at night, it is transformed into a bustling noodle hub.

One of Redlands Ramen’s greatest strengths lies within its customizable menu. Of course, there are the base soups, such as the traditional ‘tonkotsu’ or the creamy, chicken based ‘Tori’, a popular choice for ramen newcomers. Some of the customization options include level of spiciness, ranging from none to spicy, and other ramen essentials, such as proteins and egg.

This previously mentioned customization has one major downfall however, and that is the price. If you get their most expensive base, the ‘Niku’ and you add Japanese pork, along with extra protein and all of the possible add ons, which have been standard for most other ramen shops in the world, it would cost a whopping $43.50. So while the price may be very high compared to other locations, it makes more sense when you consider its high quality ingredients and good service.

In conclusion, Redlands Ramen is a worthy option for hungry high school students who like an upbeat, street atmosphere. The food is delicious, however it can be expensive. Potential customers should be aware of the cumulative prices of the add-ons. 

Because of the friendly and helpful staff, the delicious food and the unique style, Redlands Ramen is definitely worth patronage.

Southern California lights up for the holiday season

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By SALVADOR BARERRA and MIA ARANDA

The holiday season encourages people to embrace a festive spirit and produce joyful memories with family and friends. Although snow isn’t a common occurrence in the Inland Empire, one can still surround themselves with the sights of the season with many festive light displays to see in Southern California.

Riverside Festival of Lights

The Riverside Festival of Lights features a decorated Mission Inn as well as other light displays and decorations on Main Street.

It is free and the lights will take place up until Jan. 6.


For more information, visit https://www.missioninn.com/experiences/events/festival-of-lights

Greenspot Farms Lighted Hayride

Up until Christmas, Greenspot Farms in Mentone hosts a Lighted Hayride every night from 5 to 8 p.m. The Lighted Hayride allows visitors to sit comfortably on a cart, in which a tractor drags it through a decorated lighted path on the farm.

Decorations found on the Lighted Hayride path in Mentone on Dec. 7. The hayride lasts approximately ten minutes. (MIA ARANDA/ Ethic News photos)

Tickets are as follows: $15 for adults, $10 for children and no cost for children under three years of age. 

For more information, visit https://www.greenspotfarms.com/christmas-hayride

Wildlights at The Living Desert

The Living Desert Zoo in Palm Desert features many life-sized animal decorations and festive lights following the zoo’s closing at 5 p.m. One of the greatest attractions is the luminescent lantern tunnel that is in sync to holiday music. Food and beverages are also available for purchase. 

The Wildlights take place from Dec. 17 to 24 and Dec. 25 to 30 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Tickets are $16 for general admission and $12 for children. 


For more information, visit https://www.livingdesert.org/events/upcoming-zoo-events/wildlights/

Thoroughbred Christmas Lights

Thoroughbred Lane, a neighborhood in Rancho Cucamonga, attracts visitors in their cars every December with their Christmas light displays.

A house on Thoroughbred Lane in Rancho Cucamonga has Star Wars themed decorations on Dec. 7. Thoroughbred Lane also features others houses with themed decorations, such as “Frozen,” “Toy Story,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and more. (MIA ARANDA/ Ethic News photo)

There is no cost to see the lights. The drive-thru takes place from Dec. 10 to Dec. 24 from 5 to 11 p.m. 

Given the popularity of the light displays, the line to drive through can become quite long, therefore it is recommended to get there early. 

For more information, visit https://www.cityofrc.us/holidaylights

Dana Point Holidays at the Harbor

Dana Point has lots of Christmas spirit to offer that range from holiday lights, live music, boat rides with Santa and boat parade of lights.

Live music will be Dec. 9, 16, 23 from 4 to 7 p.m.

For more information, visit https://danapointharbor.com/holidays-at-the-harbor/

Christmas at Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is a nice calm little shopping center in Los Angeles.

There are a lot of shops that offer a variety of commodities as well as amazing food

They have a vast amount of Christmas lights and have a huge Christmas tree, as well as karaoke.
For more information, visit http://www.golittletokyo.com/holidays/

Categories A&E

What’s up with Marvel: What can fans expect out of Marvel’s ‘Hawkeye?’

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMMITT MURPHY

Warning: This article may contain some spoilers.

 Image created using Adobe Spark, a photo editing software made by Adobe Systems. (EMMITT MURPHY/ Ethic News image)

“Hawkeye,” the latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), premiered on Disney+ on Nov. 24. The mini series follows Clint Barton, played by Jeremy Renner, as he confronts the enemies he made during the five year gap between “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame” as Ronin. The show will also be the debut of the second Hawkeye, Kate Bishop, played by Hailee Steinfeld.

The show takes inspiration from the 2013 comic book “Hawkeye” written by Matt Fraction and illustrated by David Aja. The book follows the Hawkeyes as they go through their day to day lives, whether that be taking down an underground Russian mob, hijacking a high society auction to steal back a stolen S.H.I.E.L.D tape, or just helping a dog who got hit by a car.

Many elements from the book are transferred from the comics such as the tracksuit mafia, the aforementioned Russian mob that are the main antagonists of the comic. The tracksuit mafia are hellbent throughout the story to eliminate Clint Barton after he constantly caused them a problem, like when he forced them to sell him a building after they threatened to harm their tenants or how he saved one of the mafia’s runaway wife trying to escape.

In the show, the tracksuit mafia are connected to Clint through his Ronin persona, where it is revealed that they were one of the criminal organizations that Clint attacked during his time as Ronin. The most prominent deviation from the comic is that the tracksuit  mafia is led by the deaf assassin, Echo. 

Echo was first introduced in “Daredevil #9” (Dec. 1999) where she was shown to be raised by Wilson Fisk after her father was murdered by him. She was originally set to take out Daredevil until she found out he was Matt Murdock, who she was in love with. After Matt told her the truth about Fisk, she confronted Fisk and fatally wounded him.

Her backstory in the show is similar to the comics. The main deviation is that her father in the show was the leader of the tracksuit mafia before being wiped out by Ronin. It is still up in the air on whether Fisk is involved in Echo’s origin, but his appearance has been hinted at with the unnamed Uncle character who was referenced by Kazi who is speculated to be Wilson Fisk.

Speaking of Kazi, he has so far only been a sign language interpreter for Echo, but in the comics Kazi is the mercenary who deafens Clint Barton. Originally from a Russian circus family, Kazi moved to America as a boy when his family was tragically murdered in an armed conflict. As a mercenary he worked for countless crime syndicates before making a deal with the tracksuit mafia to hunt down Clint Barton. 

There are also a select number of characters being taken from the comics alongside Echo, the most prominent being the second Hawkeye: Kate Bishop. Kate Bishop first appeared in “Young Avengers #1” (April. 2005) and took up the title of Hawkeye in issue #12. In the comics, Kate is the understudy of Clint Barton but seems just, if not more, capable than him, displaying superior confidence and archery.

In the show, Kate Bishop is portrayed as a more hotshot archer who is in over her head in most situations and needs Barton as a mentor. Kate’s addition to the universe also grows the ever expanding roster of underage heroes in the MCU, possibly building up to the Young Avengers in later installments into the universe.

Of course, not every storyline and plot point from the comics will be adapted into the show, but it is likely that the ones listed above will be adapted into the series, and with the rumors of Vincent D’Onofrio’s Wilson Fisk returning, the series may add to the universe in a greater way than expected. 

Spotify Weekly Playlists: Dance Like Nobody’s Watching

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By AILEEN JANEE CORPUS

Need that one playlist to just dance and mosh all your feelings to? Well, Ethic News has the playlist for all of one’s dancing and moshing needs. This playlist is filled with feel good songs to get your boogie on.

What You Know by Two Door Cinema Club

Someday by The Strokes

(If You’re Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To by Weezer

A-Punk by Vampire Weekend

Why so Serious? by Alice Merton

Conga by Gloria Estefan, Miami Sound Machine

Understatement by New Found Glory

Alright by Supergrass

Are You Gonna be My Girl? by Jet 

Hard Times by Paramore

Spotify weekly playlist: Weekend Vibes

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By ELIZABETH MOLLOY

Everyone needs a good weekend playlist; whether you’re cleaning or just hanging out, here’s some fun songs to listen to. With a mix of uplifting songs, this playlist is perfect for anything. Maybe you’ll even find a new favorite song.

Golden by Harry Styles

4EVER by Clairo

505 by Arctic Monkeys

More Than A Woman by Bee Gees

Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now by The Smiths

Stargazing by The Neighborhood

Lover’s Rock by TV Girl

my future by Billie Eilish

How You Get The Girl by Taylor Swift

Tongue Tied by Grouplove

Sunflower Vol. 6 by Harry Styles

Cupid’s Chokehold by Gym Class Heroes

Video: Students show their skills in Redlands East Valley’s Talent Show

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

Created by ELLA FITZPATRICK

On Nov. 19, Redlands East Valley Highschool hosted the annual talent show at 6 p.m. in the Blackstone Theater located on campus. The show consisted of 14 students of all grades who showcased their talents for three cash prizes for the top three winners. The first place winner, Eric Napoletano, won a one-hundred dollar cash prize for his performance on the drums playing “Tom Sawyer.” The packed crowd was also treated with a surprise performance from the Eduskators, the REV teacher band of Doug Porter and Andrew Hoch. 

News brief: Auditions for “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind”

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMILY WALOS

“Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind” is a fast-paced 60-minute show that contains 30 miniature plays that are written and performed by students. Auditions are open to any junior and senior at Citrus Valley High School. At the audition, students will be given a scene to perform as a cold read. There will be no pressure to memorize or prepare a scene in advance. Although not required, students are greatly encouraged to write a short one- to two-page scene or monologue that will be reviewed to help determine casting. 

Acting, writing and technical skills are aspects that are being looked for during the auditions for “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind.” Auditions for the production are on Dec. 10, at 3:15 p.m. in the Blackhawk Theater. Students have the ability to become a writer or work backstage on tech for the show; however, they are still required to attend the audition. At the audition, they must clarify that they are interested in writing or working backstage on tech. Students can participate in multiple areas if they choose.

Information on the upcoming auditions. (Provided by Victoria Ramirez)

Head student directors Victoria Ramirez and Sophia Partain say they are looking for “storytellers, writers, creative thinkers and those interested in acting.” 

If there are any questions, please feel free to contact them through their emails victoriaram.31979@redlandsschools.net and sophiapar.31933@redlandsschools.net .

Spotify Weekly Playlist: Variety Pack

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By CRAIG MORRISON

With hundreds of music genres it may be overwhelming on which ones to listen to. This playlist has songs from all types of genres. No matter if you are into blues or pop, this playlist has you covered. This is the perfect place to find something new.

Little Wing by Jimi Hendrix

Riptide by Vance Joy

Just What I Needed by The Cars

Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

Leave The Door Open by Bruno Mars

Africa by TOTO

Two Princes by Spin Doctors

Ride It by Regard

Faded by Alan Walker

I Can Dream About You by Dan Hartman

Spotify Weekly Playlist: “Emo” hits of the 2000s

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMERSON SUTOW

In the early 2000s, the “alt” subcultures flourished with many great hits that still define the ideology and feelings of the group today. These are a few of the classics that any former “emo” kid would recognise and enjoy.

Welcome to the Black Parade by My Chemical Romance

Thnks fr th Mmrs by Fall Out Boy

I Write Sins Not Tragedies by Panic! at the Disco 

Helena by My Chemical Romance

Sugar we’re going down by Fall Out Boy

My Happy Ending by Avril Lavine

Bring Me To Life by Evanescence

Gives You Hell by All American Rejects

Dear Maria, Count Me In by All Time Low

Sifting the sands of the Dune universe: Looking beyond the surface of the newest Dune film adaptation

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By ELLA FITZPATRICK

Warning: Mild spoilers for the 2021 film ‘Dune’ (PG-13) ahead.

The latest —and highly anticipated — adaptation of Frank Herbert’s science-fiction epic Dune (1965) is an extraordinary film. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, a French-Canadian director and writer best known for his work in “Blade Runner 2049” and “Interstellar,” excels in capturing a new perspective of the novel on screen while not altering the plot enough to change the story.

The storyline

The story centers around Paul Atredies, the son of a noble family, taking a precarious and emotionally charged journey from his home planet, Cardan, to the unforgiving desert planet of Arrakis in the year 10,191.

To ensure the safety and security of his people, Duke Leto, Paul’s father, is tasked with cultivating the planet’s well-known resource: spice. Also known as melange, spice is a hallucinogenic drug that promises long life, heightened awareness and other medicinal properties, making it one of the most desired commodities in the galaxy.

However, others such as the Harkonnens, a rival noble family, want this wealth. During the Harkonnens siege against the Attredies house, Paul and his mother Jessica, find themselves stranded in the formidable desert where they must evade the beasts that swim beneath the sand as well as buried secrets about their pasts that will determine their futures.

The artwork depicts a scene from the movie ‘Dune’ where the main protagonist, Paul Atredies, and his mother, Lady Jessica, are escaping a sandworm while stranded in the hot deserts of Arrakis.  (Artwork by Alicia Gullon)

Previous movie adaptations

There have been many attempts to adapt Herbert’s novel, but they came with little success. In 1971, producer Arthur P. Jacobs bought the rights to produce the movie, who then asked Alejandro Jodorowsky to direct the film. Ultimately the movie was never made due to the lack of funding when the project billowed out to a whopping 10-14 hour film.

David Lynch, an American filmmaker and musician, then took the role of directing the first official adaptation of the novel, released in 1984. However, Lynch’s film failed to convey the original story Herbert wrote and upset a large proportion of the intended audience. According to IndieWire, the movie was so hated that Lynch publicly disowned his work as not to let it define his career.

The influence of history on “Dune”

“Dune” is the first novel in a 15 book series, six of which Herbert wrote before he died in 1986,  and the authorship went to his son Brian Herbert. Written in the 1960s, Herbert drew on real-life history to develop his story including the Cold War, Middle Eastern oil politics, Russian Imperialism and environmental movements in the United States.

The conflict between the House Atreides and Harkonnens mirrors the clashes between Imperialist Russia and Middle Eastern territories during the 1900s.

 According to Thomas Chi, in his book “Petroleum Oil on Dune by Frank Herbert,” the character Baron Vladimir Harkonnen is written to be similar to Vladimir Ilch Lenin, a politician who, after the fall of the Romanov Dynasty, became a founder of the Russian Communist Party in 1917.

Their names further link the similarity that they both sought to gain large control of industries. The Baron sought to regain control of  the spice production on Arrakis, so he invaded the Atreides house. And Lenin wanted territory, power, and influence against his English rivals, so his attempts to gain said things involved invading the Middle East to gain a resource that the world depends on — oil.

Significance of culture and religion

Herbert also incorporated Islamic and other Middle Eastern cultures into the “Dune” universe through the religion of the Fremen: a group of Arrakis natives who follow the fictional religion Zensunni—a portmanteau of Zen Buddhism and Sunni Islam.

Middle Eastern influence is also seen in the languages Herbert created when he refers to Paul using  words with Arabic undertones including  “Usul,”  “Muad’Dib,” “Lisan al-Gaib”  and “Kwisatz Haderach.”

The Catholic Church is also referenced in the religion of the Bene Gesserit: a religion composed of women who interfere in intergalactic politics to further their own agenda by using genetic experimentation to help direct humanity on a path to enlightenment. The Bene Gesserit have elder leaders known as Reverend Mothers,  which, like in Catholicism, are Mother Superiors among the group of women.  

The ecology in “Dune”

The parallels of real world history within “Dune” are undeniable, especially in Villeneuve’s movie. As a novel heavily influenced by the role humans have over ecology, Villeneuve’s choice to film in Abu Dhabi and Jordan — Middle Eastern territories — gives the audience a true landscape of Arrakis than any green screen could. It also allows for more interpretation of a main point in Herbert’s novel: should humans hold the power to manipulate entire ecosystems for their benefit?

For an inhabitant of Arrakis to survive, they would need a stillsuit — a full body suit worn in the open desert and designed to preserve and reuse the body’s moisture for the wearer to drink. On a planet with no known water resources — excluding dew — water is seen as a form of wealth among the population.

To help monitor these harsh conditions, Dr. Liet Kynes, a planetary ecologist was sent by the Padishah Emperor—the highest governmental power within the Imperium. While Kyne’s initial role was to serve the Imperium as liaison, her allegiance alternated to the Fremen who worked with her to solve the water and environmental crises that they faced. Even after she died, Paul sought to carry on her legacy of altering the ecosystem to benefit the Fremen, a controversial action in the book and in real life.

Representation in cast

Kyne’s character serves as a representation of gender and ethnic roles within the movie. In the book, Kynes was originally a white man and was even portrayed this way by Karel Dobrý  in the 1984 movie. However, in Villeneuve’s “Dune,” Kynes is played by Sharon Duncan-Brewster, a Black British actress.

The rest of the cast consists of extraordinary and well-renowned actresses and actors including Zendaya as Chani Kynes, Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho, Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atredies, Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica, Oscar Issac as Leto Atreides, Stellan Skarsgård as Baron Harkonnen, Javier Bardem as Stilgard, David Bautista as Glossu, Josh Brolin as Gurney Halleck, David Dastmalchian as Piter De Vries and Stephen McKinley Henderson as Thufir Hawat.

The cast of ‘Dune’ features representation of genders and ethnicities, but lacks the Middle Eastern representation seen in Herbert’s novel. This potentially feeds the idea that “Dune” is a white savior narrative with cultural appropriation. Considering where the movie took place, it is hard to imagine that Villeneuve was unable to incorporate this. However, these are not the only holes that Villeneuve failed to incorporate. Yet, he will have the opportunity to fill these minor story gaps in “Dune: Part Two,” set to release in 2023.

The film’s immersive score

It is not just the filming locations that bring the audience closer to the story of Dune. Hans Zimmer, a German film score composer best known for his work “No Time to Die,” “Interstellar” and “Inception,” brings a landscape of immersive music to the film. Untraditional sound techniques such as throat singing, non repetitive drum rhythms, war horns, scraping metal, bagpipes, electric instruments and haunting female vocals — which, according to Variety, are to represent the Bene Gesserit order — all play a role in conjuring the disorienting sounds of “Dune.”  

With the unorthodox use of unnatural instruments to create music and sounds, Zimmer’s music transports viewers into an otherworldly experience. It connects the audience with the hallucinogenic effects of spice and other unsettling psychological aspects of the film.

While there have been failed attempts, Villeneuve’s “Dune” is a cinematic masterpiece. By incorporating the ecological, spiritual, political and psychological aspects of the late novel, Villeneuve almost accurately creates the world that readers of “Dune” have envisioned and waited 56 years for.

The cast of ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ shares their preparation for the production

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By ALISSON BERMUDEZ and ISAAC MEJIA

Redlands East Valley High School Theater Department brought Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” from print to live production. Set in Victorian London, “The Importance of Being Earnest” is a comedic play with an equal amount of satire and drama.

Students from the Moderate-Severe program were given an opportunity to present themselves in this production during the garden party scene where they sat and spectated discussions between Gwendolen and Cecily. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

The play stars a pair of Englishmen, John Worthing played by Keyvon Rankin and Algernon Moncrieff played by Aiden Gonzalez, who falls in love with two young women—Gwendolen Fairfax played by Megan Rimmer and Cecily Cardew played by Evie O’Brien.

At the end of the play, the entire stage production team bowed and received a round of applause from the audience. The stage production team worked to change the stage’s scenery and props a total of three times during the play. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Both men lie to the women and claim their names are Ernest. The women immediately become infatuated with them and the men are placed into a difficult, comedic situation as they try to continue the charade.

From stage production to costume changes to memorizing lines, putting together a play requires lots of dedication and hard work. With the play being almost two and a half hours long, actors set aside a lot of time preparing for the live performance.

Aiden Gonzalez (left) and Keyvon Rankin (right) stare intently at each other.  During the play, the actor’s characters, Algernon Moncrieff and John Worthing, often have opposite attitudes and opinions. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Keyvon Rankin, a senior at REV said, “I memorized my lines and most importantly, had to work on my British accent. Having already an accent of my own, practicing my British accent has been the most difficult.”

Rankin continued, “Memorizing with an accent is a whole other thing than just memorizing a line period. When you add an accent to it, you still have to convey what the line is trying to give.”

In Act 1, Keyvon Rankin and Megan Rimmer’s characters first meet each other. Throughout the play, Rankin’s character continuously seeks Rimmer’s character’s hand in marriage. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Ella Fletcher, a senior at REV, plays Lady Bracknell, Gwendolen’s controlling mother, and she believes she prepared for the role “too much.”

Fletcher said, “I memorized and memorized and memorized until my brain was dead.”  

Ella Fletcher poses at the end of the play as the audience applauded her for her performance of Lady Bracknell. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Some of the actors including Fletcher, Gonzalez and Jonathan Black, a senior at eAcademy and Algernon’s manservant in the production, mentioned that they have had previous play experience that helped them prepare for their role.

Black said that his experience had “given [him] an idea on what he needed to do and what things [he] needed to prepare for.”

Adam Garcia, a junior at REV, plays Rev. Canon Chasuble. Garcia said that it is actually the audience who helps him improve his portrayal of his character.

“I want the audience to feel what I am trying to portray,” he said. “I can gage the way I act, or how dramatic and funny I am based on the audience’s reactions.”

Evie O’Brien and Aiden Gonzalez stand close to one another during the play. O’Brien who plays Cecily Cardew is Gonzalez’s love interest throughout the play. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Similar to how each actor prepares differently for their role, they all appreciate different aspects of the play process.

“I enjoy the professionalism of this theater and the play itself, ” Gonzalez said.

Unlike his time in middle school theater, “the set pieces and costumes actually make [him] feel more intrigued with the play itself.”

Patricia Musselman, a freshman at REV, plays Merriman the butler and agrees with Gonzalez on the influence costumes can have on an individual’s performance.

“The costumes help me feel more confident on stage,” said Musselman.

Megan Rimmer and Evie O’Brien embrace each other during the second act of the play. Their characters establish a friendship after learning that both of their lovers lied about their names being Ernest. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Megan Rimmer, a senior at REV, acknowledged that playing a character whose personality is completely different from hers makes the play really fun.

“I feel like characters that are not similar to me are the most fun to get into because it’s acting more. You have to make yourself to be this extravagant person that you’re not really, so you have to act,” Rimmer said.

Keyvon Rankin’s character, John Worthing, gets on his knees as he talks to his governess, Miss Prism, who is played by Rose Blatchley. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

Rankin said his favorite part of the play process was “seeing it all come together. We all started off sitting in a circle reading the script and this small little thing turned into a bigger production that people can come and see for themselves: to witness all the work and time we have put in so they can enjoy.”  

He further said that he finds the whole process to be fun.

“I have the opposite of stage fright,” he said. “Watch me, I am the attention.”

In Act 3, all the characters gather around a table as the lead character, John Worthing, discovers that his actual name is Ernest. (ELLA FITZPATRICK/ Ethic News photo)

The actors performed the play live for audiences three nights in a row. Due to current COVID-19 guidelines, they had to perform with masks on for the entirety of the play. Despite this challenge, the actors still delivered their best performances and the play consisted of a well rounded cast, featuring actors from the moderate-severe classes and Redlands eAcademy. 

Spotify Weekly Playlist: Road trip Vibes

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By EMERSON SUTOW

Although most of the world is stuck inside, that does not mean we have to be sad about it. These are some songs that give you road trip vibes, but whether you travel or not this playlist can be a fun way to commemorate different places. Even if we all come from the same city, state or county, all places can be seen or celebrated differently, which can create a wide range of diversity and culture.

Portland by Bowling Shoes

West Virginia by The Front Bottoms

Los Angeles by The Midnight 

Beverly Hills by Weezer

Jesus in LA by Alec Benjamin

Hello Seattle by Owl City 

Miami by Taking Back Sunday

Welcome to New York by Taylor Swift

Houson by R.E.M.

Strasbourg by The Rakes

Review: After six years of silence, Adele’s ‘30’ album tops charts

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By NADIA CENICEROS

Adele’s last album, “25”, was released in 2015 and she later went on a 6 year hiatus until now. On Oct. 14,  2021, Adele released “Easy On Me,” along with a music video. She later stated she is releasing a new album, “30”, on Nov. 19, 2021. The album has 12 songs, lasting 58 minutes.  The album can be streamed on all music platforms.

The songs in the album include:

  1. Strangers by Nature
  2. My Little Love
  3. Oh My God
  4. Can I Get It
  5. I Drink Wine
  6. All Night Parking (with Erroll Garner) Interlude
  7. Women Like Me
  8. Hold On
  9. To Be Loved
  10. Love Is a Game

Adele had a ‘One Night Only Concert’ on Nov. 14 where she performed 10 songs at the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. She performed six songs that were from her past albums, along with four songs from her new album including ‘Easy on Me’. 

The concert audience included celebrities like Lizzo and Melissa Mcathy and people who managed to get tickets. This was her first concert since 2017. 

She had damaged her vocal cords causing her to cancel her last two shows, according to USA Today. This caused a huge break in the singer’s career. 

Adele has also announced that she will be doing a Las Vegas concert residency. It is set to start on Jan. 21 and end on April 16 2022, where she will perform two shows a weekend.

Taken on Nov. 18 2021, a day before the release on Nov.19 2021 at a local Target, Adele Vinyls and cassettes being sold and purchased. (NADIA CENICEROS/ Ethic News photo)

Before the album was released, Target had released the vinyl and cassette player the day before release date. Fans were able to purchase them before the album was supposed to be released. 

Only three days after the album was released, the album has become the best selling album in the US in 2021. The album stayed the top of the Billboard Music Charts for several weeks, selling over 1 million copies.

The album is about her divorce with Simon Konecki. “The estranged couple originally separated in April 2019, before Adele officially filed for divorce in Sept. 2019,” according to Vanity Fair. The songs relate to how the divore happened and how she felt during it. The songs also involve her son Angelo Adkins. Angelo was six at the time of the divorce. 

Spotify Weekly Playlist: Ultimate Halloween Party

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By DESTINY RAMOS

With Halloween nearing, all have begun planning the ultimate party to celebrate the spookiest holiday. And a great Halloween party always has to have great music to go with it, so get dancing to this playlist! It has great songs ranging from popular children’s movies to songs some have never heard before.

This is Halloween by Danny Elfman

Friends on the Other Side by Keith David 

Monster Mash Bobby Pickett and The Crypt Kickers

My Family by Migos, Karol G, Snoop Dogg, and Rock Mafia

Freaking Me Out by Ava Max

Spooky, Scary Skeletons by Andrew Gold

Disturbia by Rihanna

Graveyard by Halsey

Calling all the Monsters by China Anne McClain

Oogie Boogie’s Song by Ken Page and Ed Ivory

Somebody’s Watching Me by Rockwell

Haunted Heart by Christina Aguilera

Remember Me (Duo) by Miguel

I Want Candy by Bow Wow Wow

Witchcraft by Frank Sinatra

“Venom: Let There Be Carnage” brings a interesting and new experience for Sony’s October release 

Published on by Ethic NewsLeave a comment

By Emmitt Murphy

Note: This article will contain spoilers. 

Directed by Andy Serkis, “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” is the highly anticipated sequel to 2018’s “Venom” starring Tom Hardy as Eddie Brock and Venom and Woody Harlson as Cleatus Cassady and Carnage.

The image is the logo for the movie “Venom: Let There Be Carnage.” The film started production on November 18, 2019 but was delayed in Spring of 2020.  File:Venom Let There Be Carnage logo.jpg.webp. Sony Pictures Entertainment from https://sonypicturesuniverseofmarvelcharacters.fandom.com/wiki/Venom:_Let_There_Be_Carnage This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.

Released in the United States on Oct. 1, the film has grossed $90 million on its opening weekend with a current box office total of $353 million.

Critics seem rather indifferent about the film with ratings of 60 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, 48 on Metacritic, and 6.5 on IMDb. On the other hand, audiences seemed to enjoy the film with an audience score of 84 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.3 on Metacritic.

The film wastes no time and jumps straight into action. Within the first 20 minutes, Cleatus’s motivations are set and the amazing computer-generated imagery for Venom is shown in full, not to mention the witty banter between Eddie and Venom. While Cleatus and Carnage’s rampage through the city, watching Eddie and Venom argue like a married couple is very entertaining.

The finale is down wonderfully, from the action to the atmosphere. The fight was incredibly tense as Venom was at a disadvantage at almost every moment, not to mention the incredible CGI on both symbiotes.

“‘Venom: Let There Be Carnage’ is action packed and has many humorous moments,” says Citrus Valley freshman Presley Price. “The special effects were excellent along with the soundtrack. Overall, I liked the movie and recommend it to Marvel and sci-fi fans.” 

Though the movie is fun to watch, critics aren’t too fond of the film due to plot conveniences such as how the symbiotes can do almost anything.

As Eddie searches for the bodies of Cleatus’s victims, Venom is seemingly able to do everything. From perfectly remembering a drawing on a wall to making Eddie type extremely fast.

Carnage also falls victim to the symbiote plot convenience. In the movie, Carnage is able to do incredibly outlandish actions, including hacking a computer to find the location of Ravencroft Institute.

With a runtime of only one hour and thirty minutes, Naomie Harris’s character of Shriek is not able to get any character development. She appears to be a simple plot device to give Eddie and Venom a disadvantage with her staple super-sonic screams.

For anyone with a liking to superhero movies or anyone who just likes a fun experience, the film is a good watch.

Also, Spider-Man fans who plan to see the film might want to stay past the credits.