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entertainment Panther Prowler • Dec. 6, 2019
“Knives Out” stuns audiences Jessica Zhou DPS Editor
“Knives Out” is the newest addition to the “whodunit genre,” placing a fresh twist on classics such as “Clue.” Released worldwide on Nov. 27, the movie has received critical acclaim and currently holds a 96 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Seeing as most of the horror movies of 2019 have been pretty horrible, we decided to take a stab at the murder mystery genre and attended the premiere of the film. Even though we sat in the front row of a packed theater, “Knives Out” was worth all two hours and ten minutes of neck pain endured. The movie starts with the death of Harlan Thrombey, a famous mystery author and the wealthy owner of a renowned publishing company. The death is believed to be a murder and suspicion is immediately placed on Thrombey’s three children and his caregiver Marta Cabrera, a Latina immigrant. After Cabrera receives Thrombey’s will, the rest of the family turns against Cabrera, who believes she accidentally killed Thrombey herself. However, in a shocking (or not) turn of events, an alternate suspect is revealed to have plotted Thrombey’s murder at the end of the movie. It is pretty clear that the structure of the movie is very basic; a wealthy man is killed, a will is argued over and the surprise murderer is revealed at the very end. However, “Knives Out” builds
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off of this outline brilliantly through a diverse set of subplots and characters. Each of Thrombey’s children is dealing with their own issues, ranging from a romantic affair to a failing skincare startup, all of which are shown to provide motive to kill Thrombey. Additionally, the movie is filled with various comedic moments, including Cabrera’s tendency to literally vomit when telling a lie and Chris Evans’ portrayal of Ransom Drysdale, Thrombey’s grandson. There needs to be a life lesson in order for it to fit the PG-13 category. The whole story aims to reveal a central message of kindness toward others. Cabrera is the epitome of an angel on Earth, while the Thrombey family is the literal image of corruption and failure under wealth. Members of the family are also racist, including Thrombey’s son and “alt-right” grandson, and threaten to deport Cabrera after she receives the will. Cabrera never retaliates and is always polite to the family in return. As the Thrombeys reach their demise at the end of the movie, the audience is able to witness a full circle of beautiful karma in action. “Knives Out” has elevated the basic murder mystery plot and made it relevant and entertaining to modern audiences. Whether you are an aspiring detective or looking for a way out of “Frozen 2,” this movie is a must-see for all.
“Ford vs. Ferrari” races into the box office Rahul D’Souza Chief Photographer
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brooding persona, opting for a more quippy drifter instead. Headstrong and stubborn, Bale’s character clashes with the others, but is also the force driving the team forward. The chemistry between Bale and Damon leads to a beautiful friendship on screen. Their characters’ personalities conflict, but also compliment each other. The inflexible loner and the goodnatured designer are an unlikely pair, but by the end of the movie an unbreakable bond is formed between the two. Set in the 1960’s, the car culture in the movie is strong, with many nostalgic beauties making their way onto the screen. Some can be seen in only a few clips, while others are favorites for the entire movie, but all these old beasts are welcome sights for those that can appreciate them. Unfamiliar viewers may confuse “Ford vs. Ferrari” with “The Fast and the Furious” series. This may make them turn away, as the series has experienced a downward trajectory the last few years. However, don’t get it twisted: “Ford vs. Ferrari” currently holds a 91 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is excellent. Overall, “Ford Vs Ferrari” brings us a movie that redneck motorheads and average moviegoers can love together. Regardless of whether or not you like race cars, the performances delivered by the seasoned cast of actors is sure to keep you content.
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Contrary to what the name implies, “Ford vs. Ferrari” isn’t just a car movie with fast driving and loud races. The film combines drama with a deep appreciation for the intricacies and art that go into a race car. Based on a true story, the main conflict in the film is between Henry Ford II and Enzo Ferrari. After Ford attempts to buy a controlling share in his company, Ferrari practically spits back in his face, insulting his lineage. Ford takes this is a declaration of war, determined to destroy Ferrari in the most prestigious race of the time: the 24-hour Le Mans race in France. Ford brings in Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon), a masterful car designer with an eye for performance like no other. His name will go down in history associated with the Shelby Mustang muscle-car, but in this film, he works on the Ford GT40, a pure race car. Damon delivers a fiery, yet likeable performance. He doesn’t stand for anyone insulting him, even going so far as to fistfight his driver, Ken Miles (Christian Bale). At the same time, he is cheerful and lively, contrasting sharply with the stubborn attitude of Bale’s character. Bale is known to immerse himself in his roles entirely, losing or gaining unhealthy amounts of weight to fit his characters. After playing Dick Cheney in his last movie, “Vice”, Bale lost an astounding 70 pounds to play Ken Miles, a daring racer. Compared to many of his other roles, Bale puts on a much less
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Emma Schoors News Editor Christmas is the time for many things; oversized evergreen trees, talking snowmen and time with family and friends are just the start of them. Music is one aspect that those who celebrate this iconic holiday remember vividly, because some Christmas albums are just timeless. One of the most beloved Christmas albums is “Christmas Portrait” by The Carpenters, which, in 1978, seamlessly blended the silky vocals of Karen Carpenter with classic holiday songs. This album revolutionized 70’s Christmas tunes by adapting them to modern music standards, all the while keeping the authenticity and warm vibe of older Christmas tracks.
Frank Sinatra’s 1957 “Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra” is an iconic, sleek album. His classic arrangements do not stray far from the classic 40’s sounds that made Christmas music a modern phenomenon, but his famously smooth voice ties the bow on the top of this album. Many immediately associate Sinatra with Christmas music, and there is a good reason why. The Beach Boys shook up the classic holiday music scene with the release of their 1964 album “The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album.” Featuring seven iconic Christmas songs and five originals, the band effortlessly balances their signature Southern California pop sound with snowy Christmas charm.
In terms of popularity, Bing Crosby’s famed “Bing Crosby’s Christmas Classics,” released in 1988, is a holiday staple for millions. This is largely due to its classical feel, which makes it a beacon for great Christmas music. Those who celebrate Christmas tend to sway toward this album to accompany their holiday celebrations. There are dozens of iconic Christmas albums, and they all have similarly nostalgic, positive undertones. It is no wonder that so many people fall back into the same Christmas songs again and again.
