‘The Artist’
“The Artist” is a very intriguing film. It is a silent movie done in traditional silent film style, including actors using pantomime and overly expressive facial expressions that are typical in the silent movie genre. The topic of the movie, however, is inherently modern in that it follows the life and career of a silent movie actor as silent movies decline and “talkies” become popular. While technically fictional, the plot of the movie was indeed what actually happened for many silent movie stars who, while very popular in their genre, became obsolete and forgotten once talkies arrived on the cinematic scene. The movie is entirely silent, an interesting artistic decision on the part of the filmmakers, which is both challenging and engaging for modern audiences who are accustomed to a different type of movie. This film is a must for any movie buff or cinephile interested in the history of film.
candice bautista, editor
‘The Stand’ by Stephen King
Stephen King is basically a god among men. “The Stand,” which came out in 1980, focuses on an eclectic group of people maneuvering a post-apocalyptic world. This hefty tome has everything: a devastating epidemic, the struggle to survive after civilization has fallen and a truly terrifying fight between good and evil. Just one of these things would have made for an enjoyable and fulfilling read but, combined, they make this book one of King’s true standouts. Reading “The Stand,” you will be shocked at the variety of emotions you will feel: fear, pity, anger, revulsion, love and just about every other emotion there is.
The 1994 miniseries of “The Stand” is also worthwhile. Let’s be honest, you need eight hours to do “The Stand” justice, and this miniseries truly does represent the novel to its full extent. Also, if you want to read an even longer version of “The Stand,” King re-released the novel with all the parts that his editor originally excised; warning: this version is not for the weak of stomach. But, the original 1980 edition of “The Stand” is a must-read—for everyone.
yael katzwer, editor
