pagefourteen AROUNDTOWN The Graduates relax on Senior Week

a party and get drunk. After The witty dialogue flows easily off the wwNaomi Prale entering the party, Josh tells page, and the actors do a strong job of making Around Town Editor the boys “the secret” about everything sound natural. Each character comes female body language. Later, from a different background, with different at the party, Ben is talking with relationships that define their characteristics. It The Graduates, directed by Ryan Gielen, is an his best friend Megs (Laurel is the small characteristics about each character American coming–of-age comedy that focuses Reese) but becomes distracted that create differences in each one of them. on the life of a few recent high school graduates by Annie (Stephanie Lynn), the The inde-rock soundtrack only emphasizes who come together in their final Senior Week or hottest girl in school. Ben and the coming-of-age mood in this film. Some new- Beach Week; spent partying in Ocean City. Annie start to kiss, but a fight age bands such as The New Rags, Plushgun, The film explores the experiences of 18- that breaks out with Nickie The Mad Tea Party, Our Daughter’s Wedding year-old Ben (Rob Bradford), his friends Andy causes Annie to leave the party, and The Smittens are featured. (Blake Merriman), Mattie (Nick Vergara) and and Ben feeling heartbroken. The movie features a tagline that says, “Careful, Nickie (Michael Pinnacchio). The boy’s few The movie continues to we don’t want to learn from this.” However, it plans for the week, to hang out, party and meet follow the life of Ben and his is ironic to see how some of the characters learn hot girls. friends, only focusing on the some of the most important lessons of their The movie sets out outside a liquor store idea of sex, partying, drinking lives. This humorous film is downright funny, in Columbia, where Ben, his brother Josh and girls the whole time. But but still stresses the importance of life lessons (Josh Davis) are waiting for Josh’s friend Brian the characters seem to hold a and friendship. Graduation time truly is a life- (Brian Seilbert) who comes into the car handing bond of true friendship that changing experience. Ben a bag of liquor. The party then proceeds to prevails throughout all of the go and pick up the rest of Ben’s friends, and funny scenes. At the end, the encounter the long drive to Ocean City. With main character Ben seems six guys squished in one small car, the topic to have learned “who is true The Graduates of conversation highlights the group’s limited friends are” but the rest of the understanding of sex, the main topic of dialogue characters continue to glide in the movie. through life, drinking and Directed by Ryan Gielen Upon arrival in Ocean City, the boys go to partying. Skate 2 rides up along with competition

perform tricks. Objects, such as garbage cans, stick, and then push it forward at an angle, but hitting a dumpster. w Rexly Penaflorida benches and lunch tables can be moved around sometimes the analog stick will go straight There are numerous events in the game that w Managing Editor to suit any skater’s needs. Movable objects instead of an angle. The sensitivity leads to a are bound to keep players entertained. There are a great addition to lot of attempts on a very are film sessions where the player has to For many years, the Tony Hawk video game the game and leaves simple trick and can perform a trick at a certain area while a camera series has had a monopoly on skateboard video the player with many leave players frustrated. takes pictures of the trick. There are also games. Now, a new game has come to rival the options to improvise To this reviewer, competitions where the player competes against Tony Hawk series. Skate 2 comes with a big on how they would like the biggest part of the three other players and the winner is rewarded world to explore and a variety of events that will to execute their trick game is the wipeouts. with a certain amount of money. The events are keep the player in constant excitement. Skate 2 sequences. Any player knows very generic, but there is so much variety within is bound to attract both skatboard addicts and Before the Skate that it takes numerous the different events that the player might not be newcomers alike. series was introduced, trials to get the perfect able to put the controller down. The storyline of the game is the same as players had to trick. That is where the Without a doubt, Skate 2 has raised the any other skateboard video game. The main execute trick on other Thrasher Hall of Fame standard in skateboarding video games. There character is released from jail and comes back skateboarding video comes in. It works by is a lot of potential within this game and players to town and tries to build up his/her career to the games by pressing two awarding money to the can spend numerous hours executing tricks and prestige that it used to be before being sent to or more buttons. Skate players based on how exploring the city. With all of its potential and jail. The storyline is very long but there are also 2 does a great on making crazy their skater’s grandeur, Skate 2 looks to be one of the big hits chances to participate in extra competitions or the controls much wipeout is. Basically, of 2009. challenges that could keep the player interested easier to players and the more bones that the in the game. it makes memorizing skater breaks, the more If there is one word to describe the setting of tricks a thing of the money is awarded. This Skate 2 the game, it would be massive. Each area of the past. The one problem is the more impressive world is unique in its on way. The high school with the new controls is part of the game because has a lot of stairwells that can be grinded and sensitivity. For example, in order to execute a it turns frustration from failing a trick to a very the park has a lot of ramps that can be used to heelflip, the player has to pull back the analog hilarious sequence of falling down stairs or PS3, XBOX 360 Evolution text probes readers consciousness for answers

individuals so the most fit or adapted individuals The chapters are structured with bold subtopics present day whale includes feet-bone structures wwSuhail Ansari will survive to pass their characteristics on to throughout the chapter, so if the debate becomes that seem to have come from the said common World Editor the next generation and effectively evolve a too intense for one, it is easy ancestor. Many theists have chosen to defend the population, it is when this concept is applied to return after a short break. Although it has been coded in the concept of a higher being creating the universe to the context of human origin f when feverous Before each chapter begins, whale’s genome to not express the with all creatures, especially humans, designed debate is picked up. a relevant quote is presented organizational genes that make those through divine origin. However, the step- Coyne wishes to offer a succinct and precise which probes at the reader’s developed feet, sometimes an error by-step case for evolution, or the origin or argument for rallying the cause of evolution consciousness about the may occur in said organizational change of species over time due to shifts in the acceptance. Using appeals to logic, Coyne truth towards evolution; genes, and a leg-like structure will frequency of heritable characteristics, is made constructs a picture of nature which is defined then, the facts are presented develop. This irrefutable evidence in by University of Chicago evolutionary genetics only by the observed diversity of life. Building to provide evidence for the favor of evolution presented by Coyne professor Jerry Coyne in his recently published concepts such as vestigial structures along quote. is one of the intellectually engaging book Why Evolution Is True. with homologous features, an ordered flow of Even though this reviewer’s arguments presented in his book. This large undertaking seeks to persuade an evidence is presented. The data shown offers biology teacher managed to The book may seem at first to audience, already aware about the controversy, much for every reader, as the arguments are instruct the general concepts dismiss all religion as false and to about the facts; the facts up to date include all simply constructed and yet offer an interesting of the evolutionary history, present evolution as the main history proof, from molecular genetics to the fossil refresher to those already familiar with the topic much of the text was simple of man, the book goes on to show that record, supporting evolution and none refuting area. in presentation. But the such a sequence of change in species it, so far. The latter clause of the previous Metaphysical explanations are obviously fascinating new advances in the field are of over time is just scientific fact. sentence is why many educated religious ignored by Coyne, and this goes on to degrade vestigial structures amazed this reviewer into persons have largely ignored the plethora of his argument, but a brief mention is included an even more ardent believer in the change of Why Evolution is True evidence in favor of evolution. in the preface stripping to role of atheism as a species over time. Most high school biology Although many are comfortable with concept synonym of belief on evolution. He chooses graduates have learned the history of the whale, language that is easy to follow regardless of where a terrestrial four-legged mammal helped of natural selection, the idea that not enough Jerry Coyne resources are available to accommodate all one’s extent of biological education. originate the whales we know today. The pagefifteen

WestWord Malkovich defines itself as a cult classic First in a series his office, he unexpectedly travels into the mind lives in the mind of Malkovich with Maxine as play Maxine, showing that she is smart and w Naomi Prale of John Malkovich for 15 minutes, his wife for the next six months, manipulative. However, as he has done in w Around Town Editor after which he is deposited into during which Schwartz revives countless other films such as In the Line of Fire a ditch on the New Jersey his career as a puppeteer. and onstage at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theater, With a truly original screenplay and an turnpike. Excited with this However, Lotte devises Malkovich steals the film. Unafraid to lampoon intricate web of themes, Being John Malkovich new discovery, Schwartz a plan to get Schwartz his own narcissism, the title character’s alter-ego sets itself apart from other movies as a “cult collaborates with to leave Malkovich, comes off as rather unpleasant and surly, which classic.” Originally released in 1999, the Maxine to sell entry and once the portal only makes the performance more hilarious. breakthrough film for former music video into Malkovich’s mind to Malkovich’s brain Lance Acord’s cinematography is interesting director Spike Jonze (Best Director Academy at $200 a head. becomes occupied throughout (the characters being vomited out Award Nominee) was either praised highly for Schwart’s wife, by someone else, the portal on the Jersey Turnpike is especially its originality or critically despised. Lotte, travels into Lotte eventually spectacular), as various characters see the world Charlie Hoffman’s script focuses on the Malkovich’s brain, lives her life with from the perspective of Malkovich’s eyes, but it experiences of a few adults who find themselves in which Maxine Maxine,classics while is truly brilliant at the point at which an angry able to travel in a portal into the head and mind calls up Malkovich Schwartz has to Malkovich confronts Schwartz in his office of the famous actor, John Horacio Malkovich and they go out on live watching them and travels through the portal to—you guess (John Malkovich). Craig Schwartz (John a date. Lotte realizes be happy together. it—his own brain, where Malkovich sees the Cusack) is an aspiring unsuccessful puppeteer that she loves Maxine, The flim’s world through his own eyes. In this world, who is married to pet-obsessed Lotte (a virtually and Maxine loves spectacular acting every single person has Malkovich’s face and unrecognizable Cameron Diaz) in a forlorn her back, but only as performances clearly their conversations consist of repetitions of relationship. With his fast and nimble fingers, Malkovich. They continue define the characters’ the actor’s name. The camera angles capture unemployed Schwartz finds a job working for to see each other in this foibles. Cusack’s portrayal Malkovich’s horrified revulsion at a world in a firm in an office building that humorously is fashion. Schwartz is outraged, of Schwartz is a nerdy, which everyone is he. located on the seven and a half floor, with a low and he ties up his wife so that dark and evil, which gives At 112 minutes, the rather slow-moving ceiling and a rich history. she will not be able to see off the idea that Schwartz film is an investment but one well worth the Schwartz finds himself attracted to his Maxine any longer. It is at has somewhat of a sick time and rental fee. Being John Malkovich is co-worker Maxine (Catherine Keener; Best this point in the story and twisted mind. one of the quirkiest and most unique cinematic Supporting Actress Academy Award Nominee) that Schwartz Diaz uses experiences of the last decade. e n t e r s cult p e p p y who repeatedly turns him down when he asks her out. At dinner, Schwartz tries to work Malkovich a n d Being John Malkovich Maxine, who asks what he did before coming to only to innocent the firm. When he replies, “I am a puppeteer,” find that he charm to Maxine immediately shouts, “Check, please” to is able to p o r t r a y manipulate Malkovich’s emotions and actions. Lotte, a sweet, good person who is very the waiter. Directed by Spike Jones When Schwartz finds a door to a portal in Schwartz is able to control Malkovich, and he vulnerable. Keener uses a reserved attitude to Fiction Family’s debut album charms listeners

for Me Baby” and “Not Sure” contain country- out of control, the instruments come together melancholy vocals. w Naomi Prale style guitar melodies a la Switchfoot’s “Dare to harmonize into a powerful melody. Both The bouncy “Look for Me Baby” ends the w Around Town Editor You to Move” and Nickel Creek’s “Smoothie members of the band sing falsetto while record on an upbeat note that while out of sync Song.” masterfully playing w i t h the slow tunes on the rest of the A collaboration by Switchfoot’s Jon Foreman The first track, “When She’s Near,” is catchy quick stanzas on album, is nonetheless and Nickel Creek’s and mellow, employing the guitar. uplifting. It sounds Sean Wakins, the self- the sounds of a low “Not Sure” as if it were pulled titled debut album drum sounding in the and “Betrayal” from the 1950s or from Fiction Family background. However, f o l l o w , the British Invasion, combines pop-rock like most alternative r e i n f o r c i n g a quality that makes sensibilities with bands, the focus is on the romantic listeners want to alternative ballads to the acoustic guitar. This ethos of the CD. dance. produce a solid, easy- song is the first single Stories of lost Fiction Family is a listening album with off the album, and has love capture the gem of collaboration few flaws. a catchy and interesting powerful magic of from two members Heavily influenced tune. Foreman’s rough the alternative pop essence of popular bands, who by the The Beatles, voice shines, joined that pervades the album. create modern sounds with a whose signature tones later in the chorus when “Elements Combined” is witty and fun, charmingly retro feel. and styles are all over Wakins chimes to create emphasizing piano in the chorus that acts as this album, the duo soaring harmonies. a counterpoint to the background vocals to nevertheless manages The next track, “Out produce an interesting mix. to sound unique. of Order,” incorporates The best cut on the disc, “Please Don’t Fiction Family This is not to say complicated rhythm Call it Love,” distinctively employs violin at that they stray far from the sound of their patterns that initially sound a little disorganized. the beginning of the song to create a solemn respective bands. “When She’s Near,” “Look However, just as the cut seems about to spin mood that parallels the tone of the lyrics and Ficton Family Antica Pizzeria dishes up anti-delicious pizzas and entrees

host, this reviewer decided to seek one. pizza to a perfect crisp. However, instead of cream, which proved to be the highlight of the wwChristine Mahoney Once seated in a cold corner, the perfect crispy crust, patrons entire meal. Copy Editor customers are handed a flimsy may be surprised to chomp Although it was a busier Friday night than paper menu that does not into a sloppy scalded pizza usual, the servers seemed to be pleasant, calm consist of much variety. instead. and well informed. Unfortunately, courtesy Diners have the choice The soups and salads cannot overcome the restaurant’s atmospheric Antica Pizzeria, a new Italian restaurant of seven different pasta do not impress, either. and culinary shortcomings. located in the heart of Chicago’s Andersonville dishes (Le paste dishes When this reviewer Overall, Antica’s poor cuisine should not sway neighborhood, fails to meet expectations elicited range $11.95-15.95). sampled the bland anyone to visit; however, should one choose to by its pricey menu. Small portions and Lentil soup (Le take a chance, the restaurant is located at 5663 If only Antica’s outer façade were a harbinger undercooked spaghetti zupe dishes range N Clark Ave. Antica’s phone number is (773) of a positive experience to come. From the made the entrees less $6.95-12.50), she 944-1492. outside, diners acquire the feeling of a lowlight, than a bargain. was shocked to find cozy date spot. However, the ambiance is lost If one is not in the a sliver of metal in the Antica Pizzeria Why Evolution is True the moment one walks through the door. Bare mood for pasta, one can broth. walls and a few candles do not atmosphere choose from a large variety of At the end, guests can make. Furthermore, patrons are expected to thin crust pizzas (Le Pizze dishes reward themselves to a tastiest squeeze through a cluster of guests waiting to 5663 N Clark Ave, Chicago Jerry Coyne range $10.95-13.50) baked in a brick part of the meal. For dessert this be seated. After waiting for 10 minutes for a oven, which one would assume would cook reviewer tried the tiramisu with rich almond ice pagesixteen AROUNDTOWN Taken only excites viewers with worthy action scenes gang in Paris and sold into Morel contributed to the positive However, Besson and Kamen add a lot of w Hira Malik prostitution. effects of the film, he also added to the negative humor in the film. This gives the film a more w Throughout the film, aspects. Although the action is entertaining, the relaxed mood. Even so, whenever Bryan Staff Writer Bryan goes to extreme actions all seem extremely easy. Bryan never makes a joke, one could anticipate something measures to find his looks like he is in pain, which is not realistic. bad happens to the person Bryan is speaking to daughter. However, this Also, Morel did not elicit great performances. almost right away. The humor foreshadows the action and the humor None of the actors are dramatic when needed. disastrous events of the film. of the film are the only When Bryan finds Amanda dead, it has A positive aspect, however, is that Besson enjoyable aspects. no affect on Bryan or Kim and Kamen kept the Albanian language in Taken, directed by Pierre Morel, is an action- Director Pierre Morel did even though she is an the movie, and do not have the actors speak packed film full of humor, adventure, deceit an acceptable job with directing important character English. If they were to speak English, then the and violence. However, its lack of depth and the movie. Although the who is close to Kim. film would lose effect. However, Besson and testosterone-heavy plot leaves the viewer film is entertaining, Besides the Kamen’s work throughout the film is mediocre. feeling unfulfilled. he did not go above simplicity of The cinematography of the film is better than The story begins with Bryan Mills (Liam and beyond when Morel’s direction, its merely decent direction and screenwriting. Neeson) taking an initiative to change his directing Taken. screenwriters Luc When the actors are not moving, the use of the relationship with his daughter Kim (Maggie The action in the Besson and Robert camera by Nathaniel Mechaly is phenomenal. Grace). He feels that he and his daughter are movie is very well Mark Kamen’s Mechaly used the camera from different angles distant because of his former job as a CIA done. There are script can only be throughout the film, making it understandable agent. many fight scenes, considered decent. from all viewpoints. At the time, he did not know that Kim and her each of which is very Not a single line Although the use of angles is exceptional, the friend Amanda (Katie Cassidy) were planning entertaining and fun was remembered camera seems shaky when the actors moved. to follow the band U2 in Europe. to watch. The action after watching During the fast scenes, such as when Bryan As soon as Kim and Amanda arrive in Europe, resembles that of the movie, which was running upstairs or jumping into a boat, the they meet Peter (Nicolas Giraud), who would the Matrix, which proves the film’s camera is also shaky. become an intricate character in the story. adds to the film’s dry quality. Some of the action scenes are difficult to grasp That afternoon, while Kim is talking to her excitement. A huge because of the disconcerting camera work. father on the phone, Amanda is abducted by Although downfall in the Although the direction, screenwriting and three men. She tells her father what has just screenwriters’ cinematography are modest and not at all happened and Bryan tells her to hide. She holds work is the thought-provoking, Taken’s action will put the phone near the man who abducted her friend A l b a n i a n s . viewers on the edge of their seats. so that Bryan can translate what he says. The Although that may man finds Kim and takes her as well. not be the intent, Determined to find his daughter, it seems as if the Bryan flies to Paris and begins his screenwriters were Taken investigation. He finds that the merely contributing to language that he hears from the phone stereotyping. Why did they choose Albanians was Albanian. He discovers that Kim and Directed by Pierre Morel Amanda have been kidnapped by an Albanian as a target?