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By Anna Todd

4 Stars

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Tessa Young has always been a good girl, sweet and ambitious with a loving boyfriend back home and a mother who is keen on keeping Tessa on the right path. But before she’s even fully settled in her freshman dorm, trouble comes knocking at her door. Hardin Scott, with his messy brown hair and British accent, his body littered in tattoos and piercings, something Tessa isn’t used to. But he’s also rude, extremely rude. His attitude should be enough for Tessa to hate him, and she does. But when they’re alone- something else rises to the surface, and she has no idea what to do. Hardin is reckless, constantly disappearing and reappearing at the most random times, insisting he is no good for her but never fully leaving her life. He pushes her away, but she pushes back, wanting to learn more about who Hardin really is. She already has the perfect boyfriend, so why is she unable to stay away from Hardin and all his mystery?  

Honestly, I loved this book. It’s realistically emotional, meaning it has realistic characters, ones who get overly jealous because that’s just who they are and ones who want to make the other person happy even if it means destroying themselves in the process. The characters aren’t perfect, and neither are their lives, and that’s something a lot of stories lack. However, it does glorify a borderline-toxic relationship, depending on how you personally view it. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who’s willing to read it. 

Jordan M.

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By Anna Todd

5 Stars

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After by Anna Todd is about a girl named Tessa who has the perfect life, and the rest of her life planned out by her mother. She already knows that her best friend turned boyfriend, Noah, and herself will be happily married together right after she finishes college-but everything changes when she actually gets to college. When Tessa reaches her dream college, she instantly realizes how different everyone is from her. Her roommate has a peculiar friend group with everyone just wanting to get together. One friend, in particular, Hardin Scott, comes to Tessa’s attention for being so ignorant and rude to everyone. Hardin likes to keep to himself and go from girl to girl never really opening up to them. You would think this shouldn’t be a problem for Tessa since she has a boyfriend, but no. This just attracts Tessa to him even more, being disloyal to Noah. Despite their differences, Hardin and Tessa always seem to find a way to each other and eventually are in a relationship which is the most toxic thing ever. Perfect Tessa and troubled Hardin with a horrible past who is a very mean drunk due to his father, and gets drunk constantly could not be more different and are fighting constantly. They fight constantly but are both sure they are made for each other At the end of the book, Tessa learns the biggest secret that Hardin kept from her-which leads to the next book. This book used to be a One Direction fanfiction that was first published on WattPad but characters were changed due to copyright purposes (Harry Styles turned into Hardin Scott, etc.) however, it has nothing to do with the band. It had over 1 billion reads online which is what turned it into a hardcopy book, and now a movie.  

What I really didn’t like about the book was Tessa’s whole character. She always thought he was cheating on her when if anything he should be worried about her since she literally cheated on Noah for him. She also never trusted him and was pretty much entitled. Also, this book promoted toxic relationships as romance. Yet, these things made the book better because I loved to make fun of Tessa’s illogical decisions. 

The author does a really good job of making Hardin a likable character, despite his rude personality, which is really difficult to do. This book was very addicting and impossible to put down. This book is pretty graphic and resulted in me skipping pages to chapters at times to avoid reading it. For that reason, I’d recommend the book to anyone 15+. 

Khadeeja F.

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Directed by Jon M. Chu

5 Stars

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Crazy Rich Asians is a film directed by Jon M. Chu, based on the 2013 novel of the same name by Kevin Kwan. It is a romantic comedy film following Rachel Chu’s journey as she accompanies her boyfriend, Nicholas Young, to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. Rachel, an economics professor from New York, is excited to visit Asia for the very first time and meet Nick’s family. However, she has no clue what is in store for her. When they arrive in Singapore, Rachel is surprised to discover that Nick is considered one of the country’s most eligible bachelors and his family are among the richest in Singapore. Rachel is forced to contend with jealous socialites, and something far worse, Nick’s disapproving mother. 

I enjoyed this film very much as the storyline was very interesting and quite intriguing. I enjoyed all of the scenes between Rachel and Nick’s mother as it displays a lot of emotion. Additionally, the film consists of a range of stunning scenery and cinematography, which are very appealing to the eye. I feel that the music choices were excellent and went very well with the scenes that they were used in and the actors and actresses were incredible. Overall, I enjoyed the film very much, and I hope that there will be a sequel in the future. To conclude, I would highly recommend Crazy Rich Asians to others, as it is a spectacular and heartwarming romantic comedy that is sure to be loved by many. 

Emily K.

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Image result for the pursuit of happynessThe Pursuit of Happyness

Director:  Gabriele Muccino

The Pursuit of Happyness is a film directed by Gabriele Muccino and was created in 2006. The film stars world-renowned actor Will Smith as he takes on the role of a struggling, single father, Chris Gardner. Inspired by the true story, the film depicts the life of a San Francisco salesmen who struggles to make a future for himself, as he is accompanied by his 5 year-old son whom he has to take care of. Chris’s determination pays off when he lands an unpaid internship in a brutally competitive stockbroker-training program, where only one in twenty interns will make the cut. But without a salary, Chris and his son are evicted from their apartment and are forced to sleep on the streets, in homeless shelters and even behind the locked doors of a metro station bathroom. This heartwarming yet saddening film shows the hardships that Chris must overcome in order to ensure his and his son’s survival. This eventually leads him to become a Wall Street legend.  

 

Having seen this movie on numerous occasions, it has become a personal favourite. Films such as this one, often leave the audience motivated and humbled when they witness individuals overcome everyday conflicts that many endure. In society, the reality of many being financially unstable and deprived is often sugar-coated, but this film will definitely pull on a few of our heart strings. Will Smith’s performance makes the film even better as he and his biological son, who is also in the film, depict the life of many broken families who are able to tackle issues together. Parents are able to relate to this as they will do anything to provide their children with a successful life. The Pursuit of Happyness should definitely be on everyone’s ‘To Watch’ lists as this one will not disappoint. –Iffat A.  

 

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A Walk to Remember

A Walk to Remember is a movie adaption from the 2004 book of the same name by author Nicholas Sparks. It is a romance film consisting of two high school teenagers, Jamie and Landon, who unintentionally fall in love with each other. The two teenagers get thrown together due to a mishap that happened with Landon and his friends, as a result of having to do community service hours. The two get close by having shared interests and then begin to fall in love. The love continues to grow until it’s unconditional and forever. Though there is a truth that will need to be told from Jamie, a Christian girl who always carries a Bible, for that truth may be connected to why she has never truly loved someone yet, before Landon came into her life.

I think this movie is great and so amazing due to many reasons. First of all, it’s because of the incredible love Landon and Jamie have shown in the movie and how that kind of love is almost every girl’s fantasy, including mine. Second, the movie relates to world issues that happen in high school and the world, which was well portrayed in the movie. Also, the movie includes how people can change, be a better version of themselves, and be capable of pure love. Moreover, if you’ve read and loved the book by Nicholas Sparks, you will love this movie adaptation.

In conclusion, I believe A Walk to Remember is a great movie for romantics and people who love a great love story. You will certainly love this movie and may have tears at the end. – Ally M.

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The Edge of Seventeen

Nadine Franklin is an awkward 17-year-old who believes she has it worse than everyone. Her best friend Krista is the only human Nadine socializes with. The one person she goes to with all her problems is her teacher, Mr. Bruner. Nadine’s all time crush, Nick, hasn’t even spared her a glance, and her perfect brother Darian gets all of their mother’s attention. When Nadine finds out Krista and Darian have been seeing each other behind her back, Nadine feels neglected by her best friend. She replaces her with Erwin, a classmate, the one person who would listen to her rant endlessly. Little does Nadine know, Erwin has a huge crush on her but Nadine being so is oblivious towards his feelings, and doesn’t treat him with importance. One day, Nadine gets in contact with Nick and goes out with him, but comes home disappointed with his arrogant behavior. Nadine must learn what is really important in a friendship to save the ones that matter most.

The Edge of Seventeen is unique, funny and relatable in every way. The main character Nadine goes through numerous relatable situations that you will feel as if you’re playing Nadine’s part yourself. I would recommend this movie to everyone in high school though mostly to people who don’t step out of their comfort zone just like Nadine. There isn’t a moment in this movie that doesn’t seem true, this movie would definitely be my number one choice for a movie marathon. – Abrish Z.

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Sing (film)

The singing competition has begun, for all animals at Buster Moon’s theater! This competition features different stages where each contestant is to perform a song of their choice, as an attempt to move on to the next round and have a chance of winning the grand prize. Everyone, especially Buster Moon, has high hopes for this show to be successful because this show may be his last.

Due to a lack of audience members, Buster Moon is having trouble paying for things such as bills, and he finds himself having to live in his own theater. Moreover, Buster Moon is on the verge of giving up his childhood dream of running a successful theater where everyone could come and gaze at magnificent acts. Thus, Buster is risking it all to attempt to create a show that is successful enough to be profitable and to create a stable amount of audience members.

I personally enjoyed this film as it includes a variety of different singing styles and songs that are easily recognizable. Also, I enjoyed how the film included animations that looked very appealing to the eye, and consisted of different sceneries. I also really liked how the storyline of the film was done and how it had references towards the show The Voice. I believe that anyone who enjoys The Voice would enjoy this film, as it is very interesting and family friendly. In conclusion, Sing is a film that includes a singing competition that may save Mr. Moon’s business and may allow him to finally have a successful theater like he always wanted. – Jeffrey K.

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Pixels (film)

Pixels is a blast from the past involving classic arcade games that are being misunderstood by aliens as a war threat. As war arises upon planet Earth, Sam Brenner, a former arcade game master has been recruited by the President of the United States alongside his childhood friends and arch nemesis to tackle these games. However, in this case, there’s no reset button and once all three lives have been used up planet earth would be in full control by aliens.

Throughout this film there are various ongoing battles that appear all over the world, for instance, some battles occur in countries such as Japan and The United States. With full control of military equipment and this war, these arcade game experts find themselves tackling classic arcade games such as Pac-man, Donkey Kong, Galaga, Frogger, and much more.

I personally enjoyed this film as it was very interesting and exciting, due to the stunning animations and special effects, as well as the range of sceneries. Also, I enjoyed the storyline of the film and how there were a lot of references towards classic arcade games. One of my favourite references would be the appearance of each game and how appealing it was within the film also, I liked how the characters were given three lives as if they were playing in an actual arcade. In conclusion, Pixels is a fantastic film for the entire family as it displays a well thought out storyline. – Jeffrey K.

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Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

Batman v Superman is an action film consisting of two well-known superheroes who find themselves battling each other to the death. However, they are both unaware that they share common goals and objectives, which are protecting others and ensuring that their cities are safe. The media portrays each superhero in a bad way, since there is constant criticism of their judgment and authority as the number of casualties increases. As a result, both superheroes begin to believe that the other is dangerous to society and that they must be stopped. This creates a spark within their relationship and causes the full-on brawl to begin.

Personally, I believe that this film was very well done as I was extremely intrigued while watching it. In addition, I enjoyed the scenes where there was constant battling between Superman and Batman, as it displayed a lot of action. Also, I enjoyed the range of scenery used because it helped make the film more interesting and enjoyable. However, I did not like the ending of the film as it leaves the viewer wondering what may happen next, but overall, I enjoyed the film and I hope that there is a sequel. To conclude, Batman v. Superman is an action packed movie that can be very enjoyable due to the range of scenery and overall story. – Jeffrey K.

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Moana

Walt Disney Studios

The ocean is calling to a young Polynesian girl named Moana, but unfortunately, her father and his strict rules refuse to let her explore the open water to her heart’s content. Nevertheless, her grandmother, who has told her the legendary story of a demigod named Maui and a hero’s prophecy, encourages her to finally set sail in order to fulfill the prophecy. According to the legend, the heart of Te Fiti was stolen from the “Mother Island” herself by Maui, until both his magical hook and the stolen goods were lost in the ocean forever. The rest of the movie showcases the adventures of Moana and her newfound friend, Maui and their quest to cross the seas and return peace to the creator of all things natural and beautiful, Te Fiti.

I think this movie by Disney is excellent for many reasons. First of all, it features a person of colour as a princess who doesn’t have a love interest and is fueled only by her own determination to make change. This is a refreshing spin on the traditional Disney princess stereotype of the women featured depending on a “prince charming” to save her and make her feel worthy. Also, the animation with its vibrant colours and scenery is really spectacular to look at, while the soundtrack, which was developed by several people including Lin-Manuel Miranda, an award winning songwriter and composer, is equally as beautiful.

In conclusion, I think Moana is a great film for the whole family that everyone is guaranteed to enjoy.  — Mady R.

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