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Brandeis University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1949 | Waltham, MA

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‘The Color of Pomegranates’: The beauty of weirdness in crafting impactful narratives

(01/28/25 11:00am)

Sergei Parajanov’s film, “The Color of Pomegranates” is truly groundbreaking with its interesting filming techniques, storytelling choices and iconic overall aesthetics. Parajanov’s ability to mesh the story of Sayat Nova, a famous Armenian artist and poet, with historical aspects of his culture made the movie a staple in filmmaking and in the Armenian diaspora. His images and film style appealed to the many surrealist filmmakers at the time and yet his visions for the film didn’t align with the beliefs of the Soviet government, resulting in the ban of the film for over 50 years. Despite this, filmmakers all over the world today refer to the movie as one of the most influential of its time. No matter if you watch the first or second version of the restored films, Parajanov’s vision remains clear. The unconventional narrative techniques of Parajanov’s “The Color of Pomegranates” accentuate the weirdness and experimental nature of the film by adding depth and meaning that is only discernible by the audience themselves.


‘Clueless’: The Quintessential Teen Romantic Comedy

(12/03/24 11:00am)

Everyone seems to have a teen romantic comedy that holds a special place in their heart. For most, these films evoke a strong level of nostalgia, like the fond memories of watching “Mean Girls” for the first time at a middle school sleepover. Upon rewatching, however, these films tend to be a mixed bag. While some — like “Ten Things I Hate About You” — are able to remain on their pedestal, others fall flat when examined with a scrutinizing, grown-up eye — as seen with “The Kissing Booth.” For me, Amy Heckerling’s “Clueless” is perhaps the most nostalgic teen rom-com of all time. I first watched the film at 14 years old, and it’s been imprinted on my mind ever since. But, as time passes and our once juvenile tastes grow more sophisticated, does this film still hold up? For the most part, yes. With privileged, yet unconventionally wise female characters, eternally quotable dialogue and an escapist setting that borders on fantasy, “Clueless” is the quintessential teen rom-com to be enjoyed by viewers of any age. 



Reflections on restitution: A conversation with Dr. Alexandra Ratzlaff

(12/03/24 11:00am)

On Nov. 24, the 37th annual Brandeis University Thanksgiving Tea was held in London. This event highlights the endurance of the Brandeis community and is the longest-running Alumni Association event held in the World. Current Brandeis students studying abroad are invited to attend, learn and meet alumni in Great Britain, forging the connections between their pasts and our futures. Sharon Rosenberg ’00, Senior Director of Alumni Relations, spearheaded this event with a passion felt by all students and alumni present.


Adagio

(12/03/24 11:00am)

On Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, Adagio Dance Company held their annual fall show case in Levin Ballroom. Dancers from Brandeis and other institutions from the Greater Boston area dazzled and stunned the audience with their kicks and twirls, right in line with the show’s them, the “Roaring 20’s.”


Freedom and fear: An artistic exploration

(11/19/24 11:00am)

How do we create in moments of extreme suffering? What role does art play to placate or heal emotional pain? These are questions multidisciplinary artist and activist Daria Pugachova explores with her dynamic and interactive creations. Born in Rivne, Ukraine, Pugachova was always a creative. She studied architecture at Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture, and for years played the drums with her band, Panivalkova. However, in 2019, when her band ended, Pugachova pivoted towards just as engaging and interactive works, exploring concepts of grief, dreams and community. 


Margaret Oliphant’s ‘The Doctor’s Family’

(11/19/24 11:00am)

Throughout my life, I have been immersed in the idea that women, particularly mothers, are held to an impossibly high standard. Watching my mother balance her career as a lawyer and raise myself and my brothers introduced me to the term “supermom.” Supermoms are commonly defined as moms who work full time jobs while still performing “traditional” female roles in the home. I grew up in my mother’s office. There were always toys laying around amidst all her clients’ files. To me, growing up in my mom’s office is the epitome of a working mother’s life, as they are expected to juggle their role as both a caregiver and an employee. 




MELA: ROYA

(11/19/24 11:00am)

On Saturday, Nov. 16, Brandeis’ South Asian Student Association held their 28th annual MELA, a vibrant celebration of the cultures of ten cultures and regions of South Asia. This year, SASA organized a magical night of dancing, music, fashion and other cultural performances, embodying their theme of “Roya.” Roya is a Farsi word meaning the “realm of dreams.” Between the beautiful backdrop, performances and overall appreciation for South Asian culture, the night was a dream brought to life. 


Yum Cha

(11/12/24 11:00am)

On Saturday, Nov. 9, Brandeis’ Club Cantonese held their annual culture show, “Yum Cha” in Levin Ballroom. “Yum Cha” literally translates to ‘drink tea,’ though the show itself offers much more than a comforting cup of tea. C2B curated an exciting night of festivities celebrating Cantonese and East Asian culture. Filled with songs, dances and delicious eats, the night was a celebration to remember.  




The unseen politics of grief: ‘High Maintenance’ and the privilege of mourning

(11/12/24 11:00am)

We’re not strangers to grief. It’s inevitable that we will all stumble through the five stages at one point or another, likely on numerous occasions.  While loss is most commonly associated with physical loss — such as that of a loved one — it can also apply to more ideological dimensions. Political grief became a widely recognized phenomena in the wake of the 2016 U.S. presidential election when Donald Trump’s victory sent shockwaves through the nation. For millions of Americans, Trump’s victory wasn’t just a political loss — it was the loss of societal values, moral compasses, and, for many, the very idea of a future they had once hoped for. And now, on Nov. 6, 2024, those very same feelings of loss were echoed, if not intensified. 


Diwali

(11/05/24 11:00am)

On Sunday Nov. 3, Brandeis’ Namaskar presented a celebration of the Hindu holiday, Diwali. Diwali, also considered the festival of lights and the start of the Hindu new year, is a holiday that celebrates the triumph of Prince Rama over the demon king Ravana. The day of Diwali marks Rama’s return to his home, Ayodhya and ultimately symbolizes the enduring victory of good over evil. To honor this holiday, Namaskar hosting a grandiose celebration filled with laughter, dancing, henna and good eats. This event embodied the light spirit of the original holiday, bringing joy and hope for everyone in attendance. 




“What like it’s hard?” A psychoanalytical examination of Elle Woods

(11/05/24 11:00am)

Elle Woods, the lead of the well loved films “Legally Blonde,” “Legally Blonde: 2 Red, White & Blonde” and the musical adaption, “Legally Blonde the Musical,” initially presents as the epitome of a stereotypical blonde sorority girl, embodying an image focused on fashion and social status. However, her bubbly demeanor is complimented by her highly determined and independent attitude, demonstrating how the films and musical develop a complex character that subverts social expectations and challenges audiences to rethink their assumptions about intelligence and capability. The various iterations of “Legally Blonde” develop a dynamic character with a robust backstory, allowing the viewer to gain a strong understanding of what makes up Woods, what she stands for and where she came from. Without these aspects of her personality, Woods would not be as nuanced nor be able to push back against female stereotypes within society and the male-dominated, conservative field of law.


Bandapalooza’s debut appearance: An afternoon of song and dance

(11/05/24 11:00am)

To start off the new month, Brandeis’ most musically talented joined forces to present Bandapalooza on Nov. 3. Top Score, Music and Dance Band, Klezmer and the Guitar and Bass Club launched the event this year for the purpose of bringing recognition to student clubs, bands and musicians. The passion of the performers and organizers to connect with new audiences spanned Levin Ballroom. On one side, the Student Music Committee and WBRS shared a table, giving a glimpse into the everyday capacity of musicians on campus, and on the other, performers lined the walls awaiting their chance to present. 


Uncovering ‘CLUE: A Walking Mystery’

(10/29/24 10:00am)

 After opening its doors in Chicago, “CLUE: A Walking Mystery” has arrived in Boston, transforming the city’s historic streets into an immersive detective adventure. Inspired by the classic board game, the experience invites participants to solve a thrilling murder mystery, piecing together bits of evidence as they explore some of Boston’s most iconic landmarks. The story begins at Quincy Market, a site full of local history, and takes participants to places like the Freedom Trail and the Old South Meeting House — familiar backdrops that add authenticity and local flavor to the unfolding mystery.