Movie Review Read about the new movie "DUFF" Murder at the Orient Express Student production directed by junior Anna Sell

Student Play Entertains through Satire In attempts to solve the murder, characters gather in the Chinese restaurant putting together the clues with satire. (Photo by Anna Schroer)

With a version of the classic murder mystery novel, students entertain through a comedic performance.

BY ANNA SCHROER FEATURES EDITOR

Twelve suspects. One detective. Murder. For one night only “Murder at the Orient Express” the spring production of the parody adaptation of Agatha Christie’s 1934 novel “Murder on the Orient Express,” made its way to the Goppert Theatre at Avila University.

This satirical spin-off marks the first production in Sion’s history that has been directed by a junior. Having been interested in theatre for the past six years, junior Anna Sell accepted the task of directing the student-run play.

“I was really surprised that I got the job as it in the past has always gone to a senior,” Sell said.“I have wanted to direct the student production since freshman year so I was really excited.”

For 20 days she, as well as the other 14 cast members, charted time in at rehearsal, only able to make the transition to Avila’s theatre a day before opening night on March 6. For Sell as director this was a daunting task as her job revolved around making sure the play went on without error, giving blocking and lighting directions to the actors and crew members.

“We had to transition to the new stage really fast,” Sell said. “We only had one day.”

The play, originally chosen to continue the whimsical theme set at the beginning of the school year by the drama department, was picked by Sell in conjunction with assistance from Music Director

Elizabeth Mulkey.

Suspense with humor is the defining nature of “Murder at the Orient Express” parodying murder mysteries as a whole according to senior Lena Kincaid who played a German waitress, a murder suspect.

“I love the student productions because they allow students to showcase their talents,” senior Maria Nessim said. “If I didn’t know it was directed by a student I would have never guessed.”

Twenty days. Fourteen cast members. One director. One show. This was “Murder at the Orient Express.”

Breaking the

Mold In this fresh take on a high school romantic comedy, the movie “DUFF” showcases individuality.

BY ANNA CIANI REPORTER

A seemingly frumpy, overachieving, high school senior Bianca (Mae Whitman), has a rude awakening by childhood friend, neighbor and football heartthrob Wesley (Robbie Amell) when he labels her as “the DUFF.” Or otherwise known, designated ugly fat friend of her apparently more attractive two best friends, Casey (Bianca A.

Santos) and Jess (Skyler Samuels).

The accuracy of the modern high school experience was spot-on and brought a sense of comfort to teenage viewers. Whitman, rising

Hollywood star, hit the mark of the funny comfortable character of Bianca with unexpected one-liners and a collection of witty comebacks against the resident mean girl Madison (Bella

Thorne). After being labeled as the “DUFF” Bianca seeks help from Wesley. They make a pact to 24LE JOURNAL MARCH

Through the tribulations and triumphs of high school characters from the movie “DUFF” unite as friends. (Photo used with permission from CBS Films)

“unduff” Bianca if she can help him pass chemistry. The mission takes Bianca out of her comfort zone. It forces her to break out of her shell, at the same time bringing her and Wesley closer.

As the movie develops, a deeper understanding of the typical high school characters is realized. The idea that there may be much more behind the cliche high school jock, popular girl and even “DUFF” becomes ever present. The movie suggests a state of self-reflection, perpetuating the idea that maybe we all have a little bit of “DUFF” in us.

Put simply, it suggests that we all have flaws and insecurities, and that is okay.

From hilarious one-liners to the inspirational message of individuality, “DUFF” brought a new and refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre. With the help of Whitman the movie was a relatable source of insight for all teenagers.

Bianca comes to the realization she does not necessarily have to change who she was or how she acts in order to fit in, because she did fit in before.

She is led to believe that perhaps despite the label she should not be defined or held back. The film preached a sense of self and peer acceptance serving as a twist on other typical high school romantic comedies.