Coraline’ is a lot more sinister than perceived : “Some cool concealed easter eggs in this cinematic masterpiece.”
By: Senna Omar, Editor-in-Chief
*Spoiler Alert*
Directed by Henry Selick, “Coraline,” is riddled with easter eggs and hidden details from the first second to the very last second. Selick meant for everything in this movie to have meaning, stating in an interview that “here everything is art directed; nothing is random. Every blade of grass, every branch shape, needs to have style.”....More on Page 12, RADAR
Take it or leave it: Halloween is frighteningly underrated: “Halloween is getting “ haunted” by Christmas and deserves its time in the limelight.”
By: Lilianna Angel, Contributing Writer
“Well, well, well, what have we here? Sandy Claws, huh? Ooh, I’m really scared,” rings the “Oogie Boogie Song” from “Nightmare Before Christmas” as I step into Target, where skeletons and snowmen share the shelves in October — forcing me to confront the uncomfortable reality of Christmas’ early arrival. Just when we’re gearing up for Halloween with its haunted houses, spooky decor and pumpkin spice everything, Christmas is sneaking in prematurely with its sprinkling tinsel decorations in stores. However, Halloween deserves more than appreciation for its festivities as it gives a unique opportunity for creativity, escapism and community — offering a day of stress relief and joy in a way no other holiday does....More on Page 5, OPINIONS
TRICK OR TREAT !
Kids, kandy and kindness: Embracing new traditions: "Meshing school and
life, a
peek into a student-parent’s Halloween experience."
By: Mata Elangovan, Managing Editor
W
ith Halloween right around the corner, student parents on campus are preparing to celebrate the holiday in a manner distinct from their peers. At the University of California, Riverside (UCR), student-parents, caregivers or registered students who are taking care of a dependent, have the opportunity to take part in campus culture and events alongside their kids...More on Page 3, NEWS
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CORRECTIONS
Volume 73 Issue 04, Published on Oct. 22, 2024.
The Highlander recognizes its ethical responsibility to maintain transparency in its coverage and promptly correct any issues published, large or small.
Located on page 17, the Radar article ‘Joker: Folie A Deux’: Dark, tragic and a new perspective was printed with the wrong authors name on it. The correct author of this article is Contributing Writer Sin Sze Man. This article also included a few spelling and grammatical errors that were not noticed during our editorial process.
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KELLEY MANZO / THE HIGHLANDER
New School of Business Senator Appointed ASUCR
IN THE 4TH ASUCR MEETING OF THE YEAR, THE NEW SCHOOL OF BUSINESS SENATOR WAS VOTED.
The fourth Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) meeting of the year kicked off with Executive Fellowship Director (EFD) Chris Garcia describing plans to combat a lack of leadership seen in his department by proposing three initiatives. The initiatives are as follows: basic needs, the Native American Graves and Protection Act (NAGPRA) and campus safety.
The Basic Needs Initiative consists of doing more research into how the resource is being used so that awareness can be spread in regards to what resources the program offers. College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) Senator Anahita Hooshyari Far plans on doing more research into NAGPRA and how that may apply to the UCR campus and EFD Garcia plans to expand campus safety measures by improving lighting around campus, partnering with organizations such as the Women’s Resources center, University of California Los Angeles and (UCLA) Transportation Services (TAPS). EFD Gar-
cia urged more senators to join the Student Voice Committee and get involved in the work that they are doing.
After vetting two candidates for the School of Business (SOB) Senator position, the seat was awarded to third-year business administration student Dhruv Patel. Patel described in his speech his aspirations to increase the amount of engagement that business students would have with their professors. In other words, he hopes to combat the stagnant interactions between faculty and students that take place throughout their undergraduate career.
He plans to do this by “organizing networking events, speaker sessions and workshops.” He explained that his experience in the Undergraduate Business Association (UBA) would help him do these things as he has organized networking events with industry professionals and events with “media concentration.” Patel elaborated further saying that the experience gained in regards to connecting with others would allow him to create and leverage connections. Other points of interest for Patel involved “advocating for more advanced finance courses, better internship
placements or expanding career resources.”
When asked how he would help prebusiness students transition from CHASS to SOB, Patel described how he would hold events specific to their concentration, led by faculty members where students could have their concentrations and various courses “translated” by faculty so that they understood where they would like to center their efforts. When asked about the types of legislation that he would like to pass, Patel explained that he would like to move certain career-related classes up to SOB students’ third-year curriculum rather than their second-year curriculum, as it would be more relevant.
Legislation regarding the creation of a position for Head of Staff and Executive Fellowship Director for the first year fellow program. President Abby Choy explained that this was to more evenly distribute responsibilities, so the EFD would not be as overburdened. Senator Sofia Jimenez brought up concerns regarding accountability and how the EFD would be kept accountable given the addition of another leadership role.
President Choy explained that this would largely be the responsibility of the Head of Office.
Further concerns were brought up regarding the timeline for the new EFD position. Senators questioned when student applicants would begin shadowing their prospective officers, if the applicants would hold the EFD accountable for the time they worked without compensation and if the timeframe allocated to vet applicants was sufficient.
Four Senate Bills were passed during the course of the meeting. Three updates were made to the bylaws adding information regarding the addition of the Executive Fellowship Director Position. The last bill detailed requirements for senators to be more civically engaged by volunteering in the city of Riverside and UCR’s campus throughout their term.
Those who were absent included BCOE Senator Allison Pham, CHASS Senator Carter Anderson, CHASS Senator Karen Vo and CHASS Senator Mia Tuifua
Kids, kandy and kindness: Embracing new traditions
MATA
With Halloween right around the corner, student parents on campus are preparing to celebrate the holiday in a manner distinct from their peers. At the University of California, Riverside (UCR), student-parents, caregivers or registered students who are taking care of a dependent, have the opportunity to take part in campus culture and events alongside their kids.
Gabriela (Gabby) Almendarez, an eighth-year doctoral candidate in the English department and president of the Graduate Student Parent and Caregivers Association (GSPCA) on campus, has been involved with various events on campus, aimed at offering support to student-parents. The GSPCA goal is to “support and mentor current and incoming graduate parents and caregivers at UCR and collaborate with UCR Graduate Student Association (GSA) and UC Graduate and Professional Council to advocate and lobby for graduate parent needs on campus and system-wide.” With connections to various other departments and organizations on campus such as R’Kids, UCR Early Childhood Services and the Women’s Resource Center, the GSPCA is one of many groups on campus that assist those with dependents in their college career.
Reminiscing on a trunk or treat held on campus from two years prior, Almendarez recalls the various activities that were available to families and their children. With Halloween themed games, candy and the support of the community at hand, she shares, “I don’t get to bring my kids to campus often … so it’s really nice anytime I do get the opportunity to show them around and remind them that I’m a student; like Mommy goes here and gets to do activities.” That year Almendarez along with other volunteers took shifts throughout the day so that way they could not only organize and run the event, but also spend quality time with their kids, bringing together the community in a meaningful and supportive manner.
During last year’s trunk or treat, Almendarez simply went as a participant, and she recalls, “It’s even nicer when I just get to chill. Both times have been really great experiences. The main thing that I value is just having my kids in that world. We don’t get to mesh those two worlds [school and family], often.”
During that same event last year, Almendarez and one of her step-daughters had a welcoming experience with one of the resource centers who were tabling. The two had stopped by the LGBT Resource Center table and
had a discussion with the people there. At the end of it she recalls that her daughter was invited to drop by the center whenever she liked, and that it was a special moment for the two of them. Reminiscing on the moment, she painted a picture of her daughter pins and flag in hand “walking away super happy. Even having the opportunity [from the center] to come and talk. Maybe not at the moment, but in the future. It’s really special in that way too.”
This year, there are two separate trunk or treats being hosted on campus that are open to all. On Oct. 30, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Oban parking Lot the Campus Apartment Residence Association is hosting a Trunk or Treat, featuring a DJ, cookie decorating, trick-or-treating and squishmallow raffles. Another one on Oct. 31 will be hosted by the Associated Students of UCR, Office of the President at Lot 30 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will feature car decorations, costume contests, candy distributions and according to an Instagram comment from @ asucr_president, will include the presence of various on-campus organizations.
After being present as first a student and then as a student-parent at UCR, Almendarez recalls how access to resources over the years have changed. She states, “When I did become a parent …
whenever I was looking for those resources, [it] felt like I really had to dig. But over the last few years, there’s definitely been a big push to make families feel more welcome.” With student-parents being “a visible part of campus life,” and the growth of various resources and events on campus, she shares, “I wish I could stay longer” and that she will miss it when she graduates.
With Halloween falling on a weekday this year, there is a lot of time management needed for Almendarez to celebrate the holiday with her family. As of now, she plans on getting as many things she can get done. This way, she hopes to take the afternoon off, stating “I’m planning to go on trunk-or-treats around my area. I think half my kids have costumes,
so I still have to go figure out the other costumes.” Excited for what is to come, she views what is coming as a reward, “if I get ‘X’ amount of work done, then I get to take off and forget about school for a little bit and enjoy the time that my kids go all crazy for Halloween and all the candy.”
Over the last few years, Almendarez and her family have been trying new things. Looking forward to the future, Almendarez is ending this chapter in her life as a student-parent by embracing her community. She explains how she looks forward to starting new “traditions as a family, and a blended family at that … see[ing] what [traditions] sticks and what doesn’t.
SANJANA THATTE News Editor
ELANGOVAN News Editor
California Senate Race: Schiff vs. Garvey
THE PASSING OF CALIFORNIA STATE SENATOR DIANNE FEINSTEIN HAS MARKED THE BEGINNING OF THE RACE FOR CALIFORNIA’S OPEN SENATE SEAT.
SARAH TABEL Contributing Writer
The recent passing of California Senator Dianne Feinstein has opened up a seat for this upcoming race, with the two main candidates, Democratic Representative Adam Schiff and Republican candidate Steve Garvey. The current race for state senate covers the contrast between the two candidates’ political backgrounds, experiences and core agendas.
Adam Schiff, a member of the Democratic party since 1996, is most recognized for his role in former President Trump’s impeachment. As the Chair of the House of Intelligence Committee, Schiff led the investigation into the allegations of Trump’s abuse of power by pressuring Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, his political opponent at the time. Schiff oversaw public hearings and gathered evidence that Trump had misused his political authority for personal gain. The Former Federal Prosecutor, a Stanford undergraduate and Harvard Law graduate, has built his political career around national security and transparency in governance.
Schiff’s most notable case was the prosecution of Rich-
ard W. Miller, former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent, who was charged with espionage for the Soviet Union, making this the first time that an FBI agent was prosecuted for such crimes.
Due to his role as a senior member of the House Judiciary and Appropriation Committee, Schiff has experience working in government. He claims that his top priority is to provide working class families with more economic opportunities. Schiff’s campaign focuses on reproductive freedom, healthcare reform, addressing California’s housing crisis and improving public transport. He attributes the rising homeless population to the high cost of living and housing shortage, and advocates for building affordable housing.
VS
Steve Garvey, former Major League Baseball player with the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers, is new to the political scene. Garvey aligns with many of Former President Trump’s policies, including issues such as immigration, public safety and homelessness.
His campaign’s main focus is to address what he describes as “quality of life issues.” Garvey opposes the “catch and release” policies on immigration and supports stronger border enforcements. He advocates for the “Back the Blue” initiative, which pushes towards increasing resources and training for law enforcement.
Garvey primarily views homelessness as an issue of addiction and mental health, and proposes placing unhoused individuals into treatment facilities. He also supports instituting a few Trump-era
regulations, primarily those concerning energy initiatives and environmental regulations, as he aims to minimize what he views as regulatory burdens on the economy.
Their predecessor, Senator Dianne Feinstein, held her Senate seat for three decades. According to The Shalvi Encyclopedia of Jewish Women, Feinstein was known for her centrist policies and bipartisanship. She is most recognized for her prominent advocacy for stricter gun control, national security as well as environmental reforms. The upcoming election on Nov. 5, will leave Californians to decide whether to continue her centrist legacy or shift towards a more conservative or progressive future.
At this time, Adam Schiff is leading the polls with 57.3%, while Garvey trails behind at 34.7%. Both candidates continue to amplify their voices and appeal to California voters as election day approaches. The two candidates are emphasizing their different approaches to public safety, economic policy and homelessness.
Opinions Take it or leave it: Halloween is frighteningly underrated
HALLOWEEN IS GETTING “ HAUNTED ” BY CHRISTMAS AND DESERVES ITS TIME IN THE LIMELIGHT.
LILIANNA ANGEL Contributing Writer
“Well, well, well, what have we here? Sandy Claws, huh? Ooh, I’m really scared,” rings the “Oogie Boogie Song” from “Nightmare Before Christmas” as I step into Target, where skeletons and snowmen share the shelves in October — forcing me to confront the uncomfortable reality of Christmas’ early arrival. Just when we’re gearing up for Halloween with its haunted houses, spooky decor and pumpkin spice everything, Christmas is sneaking in prematurely with its sprinkling tinsel decorations in stores. However, Halloween deserves more than appreciation for its festivities as it gives a unique opportunity for creativity, escapism and community — offering a day of stress relief and joy in a way no other holiday does.
Halloween deserves way more love and attention. While it’s already too late to save Thanksgiving, which seems to have been officially hijacked by Christmas, we can still save Halloween. It’s the one night of the year we can all embrace our spooky sides without judgment. Halloween is the perfect excuse to turn your home into a haunted mansion and binge-watch horror movies
while devouring candy like it’s an Olympic sport.
Halloween is also the only day when it’s socially acceptable to wear a costume. When adults and children are allowed to dress as someone else, it allows our imaginations to run wild, which has been shown to enhance creativity, build confidence and social skills. As adults, we often don’t make time for things like playing pretend — which is often labeled as childish — but Halloween allows us to let go of this societal notion and embrace our creativity. Dressing up and stepping into a different persona brings joy and laughter, reminding us that it’s okay to be silly and have fun — something we need more of in this day and age.
The joy of dressing up as a superhero at work or grabbing coffee in a dinosaur onesie is something you don’t get from other holidays. Halloween is a form of escapism from everyday life and should be somewhat considered a mental health day. Embracing the playful spirit of Halloween and reminiscing about our childhood memories of the holiday allow us to unwind and break loose from our everyday lives.
For example, imagine you are sitting in a lecture and you look around the classroom to see Spiderman or Wonder Woman casually taking notes. There’s something about seeing others in costume that brings a smile to your face not because of its absurdity, but because of the shared permission to step out of the everyday routine and into something more whimsical.
Some might say that comic conventions are enough for this, but it’s not the same. Halloween is a massive scale convention that invites everyone to suspend reality and have fun by transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary for one day. It’s terribly underrated and overlooked for the unique opportunity it creates for community building and creativity. Due to this, we should embrace Halloween’s ability to bring people together and allow our inner child to live freely. Moreover, the gothic aesthetic with carved pumpkins hauntingly glowing from doorsteps and the flicker of lanterns heightens the excitement of the season and creates a sense of community and creativity that cannot be replicated for any other holiday — not even Christmas.
Being scared is also oddly comforting, as well. Whether we’re entering a haunted house or watching a thrilling horror movie, we’re hardwired to enjoy that little jolt of fear. That adrenaline rush actually helps us destress by allowing us to confront our anxieties in a safe environment, providing a sense of relief and release, which has surprisingly been proven therapeutic. It’s fear without real danger and by extending Halloween’s spooky season, we would allow more stress relief from everyday life.
Halloween is “scarily” underrated and deserves way more love and attention. It’s a holiday that brings joy, creativity and a unique “enchantment” that can’t be found in any other holiday. Instead of letting Halloween be overshadowed by the early arrival of Christmas, we should embrace the spookiness, the costumes and the delightful treats.
So, next time you see a batshaped cookie cutter in July, don’t hesitate — grab it and start the Halloween countdown early! After all, if Christmas can creep in by October, Halloween should have its moment in the spotlight, too. ■ H
LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER
Student Opinion Poll
Are you going to a halloween party?
What is your favorite Halloween candy?
85% OF STUDENTS plan to dress up FOR HALLOWEEN THIS YEAR.
Some Favorite Costumes Students Have Worn
Bumblebee
CHARTS COURTESY OF ASHLEY CHO / THE HIGHLANDER
Student Halloween “Hot takes”
“Teenagers should be able to trick or treat until they’re like 18.”
-Emily Manus
“Halloweekend should be the week after, not before.”
-Melissa Santos Ponce
“I don’t like Halloween. I don’t understand why people dress inappropriately and I don’t like the concept of celebrating death. We should celebrate life.”
-Daniela Cruz
“Gummy candy is completely ‘mid.’”
-Pascale Gibbs
“No one should bat an eye when you attend class in costume.”
-Emily Mata
I hate seeing costumes that are too conceptual to recognize.
-Gabriela Galvan
“One thing I love about Halloween is that it allows groups of friends to hang out, dress up and get free candy. Basically, I love how interactive the holiday can be and it is really fun!”
-Ty Mandel
“I love Halloween, but now that I’m an ‘adult,’ I mainly go to parties instead of fairs and trick or treating since it doesn’t feel as fun -Edwinanymore.”Basurto
“I’m not a fan of the kitty, angel and devil costumes. Though they are cute, they are so low effort. I want to see weird costumes like a pony riding a hotdog or something.”
- Isabella Herrera Alvarez
What is your favorite part about halloween?
“I don’t really like Halloween that much. Growing up, my parents never made a big deal out of it … so I don’t really celebrate Halloween that much.”
“My
part about
is the
with families, friends, getting into character, having fun and letting loose.”
friends and going out.”
“My favorite thing about Halloween is spending time with
favorite
Halloween
festivities
Paola Sierra Biochemistry, Fourth year (she/her)
“My favorite thing about Halloween is dressing up.”
Suhaima Mahnoor Biochemistry, Second year (she/her)
Pareesa Masood Biology, Second year (she/her)
Annie Hsu Biochemistry, Fourth year (she/her)
NEORAH DAVIS / THE HIGHLANDER
Spooky-Scopes:
By Natalie Dahl, Features Editor
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22): Two of Swords
Choosing between whatever options you’ve been presented with this Halloween may seem daunting, Libra, but don’t fret. If you’re struggling with indecision, just know that both options are good ones.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19): Page of Wands
Take that crazy costume idea and run with it, Capricorn. Your inspiration and creativity will lead you to be the best dressed wherever you end up going.
Aries (March 21 – April 19): Knight of Cups
You’re going to have a great night, but don’t set unrealistic expectations. Whatever you have planned is going to be a blast as long as you don’t stress out too much about it.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Six of Swords
Release whatever baggage you’ve been carrying. Going into this holiday season, a transition will be coming your way if you let it happen to you — so start Halloween off by letting this change carry out.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21): The Hanged Man
You’re surrendering whatever it is you need to let go of this Halloween, Scorpio. Whether that’s an old fling or a bad costume idea, move on to greener pastures.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18): Three of Cups
Appreciate the time you get to spend with your friends during this holiday — it’s a time to celebrate and enjoy the community you’ve built.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Four of Wands
Let absolutely loose, Taurus. Now’s the time for you to go for it.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22): King of Cups
Unfortunately you’re going to have to act as the diplomat this year, Leo. Whether that’s your friends bickering or being divided on decisions like plans or costumes, you’re the meditator this time around.
SEE IF YOUR HALLOWEEN WILL BE A TRICK OR A TREAT.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21): Justice
Remember that what comes up will always come down, even on a dark Halloween night. Whatever decisions you make during this spooky time, you will still have to deal with the repercussions when the sun rises.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20): Four of Cups
I know you might not feel particularly passionate about Halloween this year, Pisces, but try to get a little bit into the spirit. I promise you’ll have a better time if you buy into it a little bit.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): The Empress
You’re capable of having your own fun this year! Don’t depend on other people to make sure you’re having a good time. You’re only responsible for your own emotions.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22): The World
Don’t take short-cuts on your costume. The world will be able to tell, so if you haven’t gotten the details locked down by now, you better start moving.
35 easy Halloween costumes
FROM SCARY TO SWEET, DIY ONE OF THESE LAST-MINUTE ENSEMBLES.
SENNA OMAR Editor-in-Chief
‘Twas the night before all-hallows-eve, pumpkins carved all nice; but alas with no costume in sight you can’t help but have a fright. Hazzah, a solution appears as you rummage through the endless abyss of stuff you own — a list of 35 last-minute Halloween costumes arises:
Clown
If you are skilled with a makeup brush, a clown is the perfect last-minute Halloween costume for you. Do some extravagant makeup, make special use of blues and reds, add some over-the-top eyeliner and you are golden. If you want to go the extra mile, take a piece of printer paper and roll it into a cone to wear as a little clown hat.
Indiana Jones
Grab a white button up, khaki shorts and a brown hat and have fun looking for the Holy Grail!
“The Simple Life”
If you have overalls and a pink bikini top this costume is perfect for you! Pair this with a pitchfork (or fork) to enhance this look.
Jigsaw
To complete this look, paint your face white, wait for it to dry and draw some red circles on your face. To enhance your look tie a red ribbon around your neck or wear a red bow-tie.
Joker
If you happen to have access to a can of green temporary hair dye, the Joker is the perfect costume for you. Over exaggerate it with the red lips and pair it with a white button up and your look is complete.
Patrick Bateman from “American Psycho”
Grab an ax, a button up, some slacks and some headphones and boom, Patrick Batemen! Smear some red lipstick or fake blood on your face to bring this character to life.
Grab a white sheet and some sunglasses and you’ll have a five minute halloween costume.
Cowgirl or Cowboy
Wear some jeans, a bandana and some boots and your fit is complete; if you have a hat, add it!
Magic 8 Ball
To start, wear an all black fit. Cut out a blue piece of paper into a triangle and write “yes,” “no” or “you wish” on it; then tape this triangle to your body. Next, cut out a white circle and draw a black “8” on it. Tape this circle to yourself and now you can predict people’s fortunes.
“Sally Sells Sea Shells by the Sea Shore”
Grab a jacket and pin some sea shells to the inside, next write the word “Sally” on a note card and pin it to the front of your jacket like a name tag and you’re paying homage to this popular tongue twister.
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
If you have a black dress and some pearls this
costume is perfect for you. Enhance this look by adding a pair of black elbow length gloves.
Wednesday Addams
For this look, put your hair in two braids and do some dark makeup. Pair this with a white button up underneath a black long sleeve dress, some tights and black shoes and your fit is complete.
Violet from “Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”
Violet is the name of the game for this one — so wear all your violet, paint your face with some blue and purple eyeshadow (especially on your noise) and chew some bubble gum to complete this look! If you want to go the extra mile, [print out a golden ticket and carry it around all night.
Robber
Wear all black and grab a canvas bag and this look is finished! If you have a ski-mask it’ll only add to the experience.
Chef’s Kiss
Cover an apron with kisses and you can dress as this kitschy pun.
Chipotle Burrito
Wrap yourself in tinfoil and slap a Chipotle logo on it and voilà you are a burrito.
Priscilla Presley
Go crazy with the hairspray for this one! Pair your over the top hair with some really big sunglasses, a purple turtleneck and transform yourself into Priscilla Presley.
Betty Boop
Curl and gel your hair down and wear a red dress to complete this look.
Kim Possible
A black turtleneck and some green cargo pants are all you need to sport this fit.
Rosie the Riveter
If you have a jean jacket and a bandana this is the perfect costume for you!
“Risky Business”
Keeping it super simple with this one. To create this look all you need is a white button up, some plaid boxers, white socks and some sunglasses.
Regina George From “Mean Girls”
If you have a tank top you are willing to destroy, this costume is perfect! Cut two circles out of your top over your chest area, pair with a colorful bra and your costume is complete.
Party animal
If you own any animal print article of clothing, this is a fun costume you should try. To go the extra mile, pair this fit with a party hat, or make a party hat with a piece of white paper rolled in the shape of a cone.
Sleepwalker
If you’re feeling extra lazy wear some pajamas, grab a pillow and an eye mask and boom you are a sleepwalker. If you get tired at whatever party you attend this weekend, you can even take a nap!
Damien from “Mean Girls”
For this look all you need is a hoodie and a piece of paper. Write “she doesn’t even go here” on the paper, pin it to your shirt and your look is complete.
Vampire
Again, if you are talented with a makeup brush, do some vampire makeup by making yourself look dead. Exaggerate your dark circles, draw some red veins under your eyes, and even add some fake blood (or red lipstick) and fangs to really top off the look. Pair this with an all black fit and poof! You are a vampire.
Carrie at the Prom
If you have a pink dress you are willing to douse in blood, Carrie at the prom is perfect! Add a crown and a sash if you have them to enhance your look.
“Princess Diaries”
Sunglasses, headphones, a crown and a white dress are all you need for this look.
The Pink Panther
Dress in all pink, turn on some PinkPantheress and boom you are the Pink Panther.
“Gossip Girl”
If you have some plaid, a button up and headband, a “Gossip Girl” character is the perfect costume for you.
Shaggy from “Scooby Doo”
Everyone has a green shirt and brown pants, so you really have no excuse to not create this last minute costume.
Gold Digger
If you have a lot of gold this costume is perfect for you. Enhance this look with a shovel for the digging effect.
Elle Woods from “Legally Blond”
Wear all pink, carry a book around and voilà, you are Elle Woods!
Walking Red Flag
Wear an all red fit and pin some red construction paper cut in the shape of flags to your fit and your costume is complete. If you want to put your own red flags, write them out on the construction paper for a great conversation starter.
Devil and Angel
Run to the dollar store and grab some devil horns. Pair that with a red fit and force your bestie to match in an all white angel costume.
NORM’S NOOK SPOTLIGHT
The Highlander Newspaper office
Welcome to our humble abode, where the paper might not drag you in, but needing direc tions to a neighboring building just might! Situ ated in the nook and cranny of the Highlander Union Building (HUB) 101, The Highlander newspaper office accommodates the dedicated and creative minds that supply campus with credible news and student-relevant content. Working under the comfort of constant air conditioning, comfy lounging chairs, a micro wave and a complimentary Hello Kitty toaster, our staff whips up a mean paper every week. Throughout the week, senior staff and guests take advantage of the lounging and study spac es for anything from writing to gossiping ses sions. While our office is an area that serves our staff, The Highlander hosts meetings (Mondays at 5:15 in HUB 101) and welcomes anybody interested in finding out more about our paper! Make sure to come by, whether it’s for directions or not; we hope you stay!
■ H
STUDENT POLL
QUESTION: What is a Halloween tradition from your childhood that you wish you could still do as an adult?
Answer our weekly question on the Highlander Instagram for the opportunity to get featured in the next issue!
Passing out hot chocolate
Trick or treating
Sleepover and scary movies combo with friends
Bartering candy with my sisters after trick or treating
Classroom trick or treating
GABRIELA GALVAN
Assistant Features Editor
Cindy F.
Ty M.
Luis M.
Natalie D.
Sanya A.
GRAPHICS BY LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER
EDWIN BASURTO / THE HIGHLANDER
Coraline
24. “___ so fast!”
25. Typical restroom signs: “___” and women
26. “We Are Young” by ___ 27. How the singer of “Chandelier” stamps her seal; ____ of approval
29. Texting shorthand for though 32. There, _____, they’re 35. “That hurts!”
36. Largest continent
37. Type of cozy and quaint inn (3 wds.)
40. Not much (2 wds.)
41. Oil platforms that extract petroleum from the Earth
42. Like severe Alaskan winters 43. “_____ to Sender” by Elvis Presley; Abbr.
44. What professors want you to do with your sources
45. Take this test to become a lawyer
By NataliE Dahl FEaturEs EDitor
46. Types of ___; apple, pumpkin, mud, or chicken pot
47. The basic monetary unit of Albania, equal to 100 qindarka
48. American spy org.
51. The act of persistent or recurring feeling of being detached from one’s body or mental processes
57. UCR’s The Highlander Sports Editor: _____ Solnick
58. ____, body and spirit
59. Banned apple orchard pesticide spray
60. Tiny Pacific nation
61. Machu Picchu builder
62. Christie’s “Death on the ____;” or, Cairo’s river
63. Animals in “Finding Nemo” that repeat “MINE!”
64. Overflow
65. Where Rory from Gilmore Girls went to school
Large mouthfuls of a drink (also an onomatopoeia) 2. Eager, as you might think a Brit would spell it
Brilliant display or effect
Capital of Ukraine 5. What the Other Mother wants to sew on Coraline’s eyes; Singular 6. A member of a Uniate community 7. Acronym for securities turnover excise tax
8. Character ____ Vega from Victorious 9. What connects the real world to the Other World in “Coraline” 10. Actor ______ Simhadri, who plays Grover in Disney’s 2023 Percy Jackson series 11. G____: to cook food over fire or hot coals, usually on a metal frame; or, k____: a whale’s dinner
12. Advil or tyl____
13. Say it ain’t so
21. Where Great Grandma’s ashes might be (2 wds.)
22. Nebraska’s most populated city
26. Bite-sized Italian sports car 27. Power glitch; or, a _____ of energy
28. Frosts, as a cake
29. Ruler opposed by the Bolsheviks
30. Unhappy cat sound
31. A solemn promise you say when getting sworn in
32. Ski lift
33. Greek goddess and personification of eternal youth
34. Modify someone’s work
35. News article for a dead person; Abbr.
36. Many miles away
38. Towels off
39. A business bro’s typical choice of pant color
44. Where Mr. Bobinski and his jumping mice put on a performance in “Coraline”
45. Another name for the Other Mother
46. Prequel to “X;” or, an oyster’s prize
47. The weapon knights pierce each other with in jousting
48. Short, hair-like cell projections that line your nose, lungs and eyes
49. Everything considered; “All ______” (2 wds.) 50. See eye to eye
“_____ dong”
Biblical birthright seller who really liked pottage
_____ McCartney of the Beatles
Exclude
Supreme Court count
Wacky or wild
*Spoiler Alert*
Directed by Henry Selick, “Coraline,” is riddled with easter eggs and hidden details from the first second to the very last second. Selick meant for everything in this movie to have meaning, stating in an interview that “here everything is art directed; nothing is random. Every blade of grass, every branch shape, needs to have style.”
Within the first four seconds of this film, the entire plot is revealed through the pattern on the wallpaper in the Other Mother’s (Teri Hatcher), or the Beldam’s, sewing room. Pictured on the wallpaper are two birds — a mother bird and her baby bird — positioned next to a white chrysanthemum flower, a notable symbol of death. The mother bird is clutching the baby bird with her claws and drinking the blood of the baby bird from the large cut across its neck. As the film is foreshadowed within the first few seconds, the audience is slyly shown that this “Coraline” is about a mother killing and eating her child.
In this same scene, at the very beginning of the movie when the Other Mother is creating a doll to look like Coraline (Dakota Fanning) out of an old doll of one of the ghost children, she is utilizing embalming tools and embalming techniques. The box of tools she places the doll in is an 18th century embalming kit coupled with a bone saw.
Just like it is portrayed on the doll, the first step of the embalming process is to cut the clothing straight off the back of the deceased. Previously stuffed with cotton, a material used in funeral directing, the doll was gutted and filled with sawdust, another material typically associated with embalming. After filling the doll with sawdust, the Other Mother sews the Coraline doll’s mouth shut, yet another part of the embalming process. Throughout her process of transforming the old doll into Coraline, the Other Mother is not just making a doll, she is preparing Coraline for her own funeral.
Because one of the ghost children (Aankha Neal, George Selick, Hannah Kaiser) said that the Other Mother “spies on our lives through the little button eyes,” the audience knows that the Other Mother is watching Coraline through the doll she made of her. However, there is another item in the film that has button eyes that the Other Mother uses to spy on Coraline. Located in both worlds, the squid toy with a single button eye, much like the doll, is regularly seen moving around on its own. In the other world, this squid is seen with cat ears while in the real world it
‘Coraline’ is a lot more sinister than perceived
SOME COOL CONCEALED EASTER EGGS IN THIS CINEMATIC MASTERPIECE
SENNA OMAR Editor-In-Chief
has a triangle over the top of its head, and is the only toy, besides the doll, that is seen with button eyes. This has led many viewers to theorize that this squid was the Other Mother’s way of spying on Coraline in the long term. In fact, the squid from the other world with the cat ears is seen at the end of the movie after Coraline saved her parents, implying that the Other Mother is still watching Coraline after her escape.
When Coraline first comes to the other world, the Other Father (John Linnell) sings a welcome song to her. There is obvious symbolism in the lyrics with the Other Father referring to her as a “doll,”and making reference to the “button” eyes. However, there is a hidden easter egg in the chords the Other Father plays on the piano; everytime he says the word “Coraline,” he plays a chord progression of D, E, A, D. With the chords spelling out the word dead, it is implied that Coraline was in extreme danger the minute she entered the other world.
At the beginning of the movie, Coraline is seen unpacking a snow globe of a fountain with two bears from Coraline’s hometown and placing it on the mantelpiece of her fireplace; this same snow globe can be seen on the mantle in the other world.
The next time the mantle and snow globe are seen is in the other world, before it is revealed that the parents are trapped there. In this scene the audience can see Coraline’s parents inside the snow globe in place of the bears. Following this scene, Coraline finds out her parents were turned into a doll and she sees the snow globe in the real world looking like it had just been shaken.
Near the end of the movie, right before Coraline throws the cat (Keith David) at the Other Mother to escape, the parents are seen trapped in the snow globe. Coraline immediately grabs her parents and runs back to the real world, breaking the snow globe while in the tunnel. Upon her return home, the snow globe disappears from her bag. However, the snow globe in the real world is broken, dripping all over the floor. The bears, representing her trapped parents, are no longer trapped inside the snow globe. Upon their return, Coraline’s parents are covered in snow.
Coraline has another “blink and you miss it” easter egg that foreshadows her parents being trapped in the snow globe. Thinking she escaped the other world, Coraline sees her mother at the end of the tunnel between the two worlds; unaware that this was the Other Mother, she runs to embrace her. The Other Mother, in her cosplay
as Coraline’s real mother, is covered in snow; this is unusual because the film takes place in the summer, implying that her parents are trapped in the snowglobe. Fun fact: the snow in the stop motion film was made using super glue and baking soda.
Even the food in this film holds symbolism. Coraline, during her first meal in the other world is presented with a cake that says “Welcome Home” on it. However, this cake features a double loop lowercase “o” on the word “home.” Based on graphology, the study of patterns in handwriting, a double loop in a lowercase letter “o” indicates that the writer is lying, implying that she is welcome, but not really home.
Compared to Coraline’s real father, the Other Father has a really weird relationship with food, and even said that he was “starving” during his first encounter with Coraline. Just like Coraline, the Other Father is a victim of the Other Mother since he is only fed or allowed to roam outside of his office when the Beldam needs him or when Coraline is around. The Beldam is never seen eating any food and her plate is always empty at meal time throughout the movie. The only time the Other Mother is seen eating is when she bites the head of a beetle near the end of the movie. This is because the Other Mother sustains herself by eating the flesh and souls of the children she lures to the other world.
Every time Coraline is around, the Other Father consumes glutinous amounts of food because he does not know when or if he will ever eat again. Even when Coraline rushes off to bed because she is afraid of the button eyes, the Other Father is disappointed, not because she did not sew buttons into her eyes, but because she went to bed “before dinner,” and he loses his chance to eat that night.
At the end of the movie, as Coraline scrambles through the tunnel between worlds attempting to escape the Other Mother, the tunnel is littered with multiple items lost by victims of the Beldam. The audience sees a familiar article of clothing that does not belong to any of the three ghost children. Instead this white and blue collar belongs to the “boring blue boy” depicted in the ice cream painting in both worlds, emphasizing just how far back her crimes extend.
There are so many more hidden symbols and little easter eggs in this stop motion masterpiece. Scout them out by watching “Coraline” and analyzing every little detail of this intricate film.
COURTESY OF FREEPIK
COURTESY OF FREEPIK
COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL POIC TURES
Radar Replay: ‘Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed’
A fun time capsule of the 2000s that holds up surprisingly well!
CHRISTIAN MOLOIAN Contributing Writer
The Scooby-Doo franchise is always a perfect watch during the Halloween season. It’s spooky-yet-silly atmosphere remains consistent across every Scooby-Doo release. Even though some films in the series hold more mature tones, like “Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island” and the crossover episode spin-off with “Supernatural” entitled “Scooby natural,” they all share lighthearted moments interspersed with more prominent horror elements.
“Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed” captures the franchise’s classic tone, delivering it in a fresh way for audiences. The 2004 film, directed by Raja Gosnell and written by James Gunn has a pretty simple story, but is still an entertaining filling piece of the early 2000s pie. It has great setpieces and an amazing cast that will make any viewer crack a smile due to just how fun of a watch it is from start to finish.
Returning from the first 2002 “Scooby-Doo,” the cast continues their phenomenal performances bridging the same authentic energy in their roles. Some critics did not see the value of this production, viewing it as an easy paycheck for a silly kids movie; however, everyone in the cast plays these characters with 100% conviction for the entire film.
The main highlight would have to be Matthew Lillard as Shaggy Rogers. It is a casting choice so perfect that Lillard has been voicing the character in recent shows and direct-to-video movies for almost 20 years. The
way Lillard acts and manages to interact with a computer-generated image (CGI) character, Scooby-Doo, is an impressive feat. This act can be compared to films like “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” where animated characters are integrated into the real world.
Another major draw of this film is the ambush of iconic monsters from the original “Where Are You Scooby-Doo?” and some from “The ScoobyDoo Show.” From Pterodactyl Ghost to the Mystery Gang’s first two cases with the Black Night Ghost and Captain Cutler, the film has a good mix of practical and computer-animated effects that does a good job of making Scooby and the monsters work in the context of the movie.
The CGI for these monsters still holds up 20 years later. Although it might not be comparable in quality to some more well-loved blockbuster movies in recent years, the creatures’ more cartoony look still works with the movie’s tone. In fact, it often looks better than many recent blockbusters with multimillion-dollar budgets produced in the past couple of years.
VERDICT
: “Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed” is just a blast to watch if you’re feeling nostalgic for the goofier media of the 2000s, with a spooky edge to it. ■ H
“Woman of the Hour” is the cinematic thriller of the paperback airport thriller
A WOMAN ON A DATING GAME SHOW FINDS HERSELF IN TROUBLE WHEN ONE OF THE CONTESTANTS TURNS OUT TO BE A SERIAL KILLER.
RAMITA SETTY Staff Writer
True crime has steadily embedded itself into the collective consciousness of the American public for the better part of the past decade. Podcasts explore cold cases, trying to search for decades-old trails. Several movies and television shows about real life serial killers have exploded in popularity as well. Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut in “Woman of the Hour” fits in this category, at least on the surface. Released on Netflix on October 18th, it chronicles the real life story of serial killer Rodney Alcala (Daniel Zovatto) when he appeared as a contestant on a dating game show in 1978 called “Dating Game.”
“A lot of questions have been asked on this dating show. But it all comes down to one thing: Are you going to hurt me?” a makeup artist asks Cheryl (Kendrick) as she struggles to make her choice amongst the three contestants. It’s a question the audience keeps in mind throughout the movie. Interspersed between the taping of the game show are Rodney with his other victims as he takes them out into the desert. Posing as a photographer looking for a model, he takes their photos before strangling and murdering them. The women are all different, but they all have one thing in common: they have no way of knowing Rodney would hurt them.
It’s a fear “Woman of the Hour” captures well. When Cheryl goes on a date with Rodney following the end of the show, the creeping horror she
experiences as she realizes Rodney is a threat is engrossing to watch. It portrays the trapped, panicking vulnerability that almost every woman has experienced in her life late at night. Cheryl gets away, but several other women don’t. Kendrick forces the audience to confront this in the opening scene itself, when a woman is strangled, then resuscitated just to be tortured again. The one who does get away merely does so by chance.
Many films about serial killers are told from the perspective of the killer or the people hunting them down. When they recreate scenes of the victim being murdered, they can feel strangely fated. They were murdered, and there’s nothing anybody could have done to prevent it. But the one woman who recognizes Rodney as a predator is ignored by everyone else. The police laugh at his jokes and pat him on the back, oblivious to his murderous intent. Ultimately, men like Rodney thrive because nobody takes women’s instincts seriously. “Woman of the Hour” is too brief to fully delve into the themes on violence and misogyny, meaning it never quite rises above standard thriller material. Admittedly these stories are delivered in a rather blunt manner, but some stories need to be told bluntly.
VERDICT: A promising first offering from director Anna Kendrick that captures what it feels like to be preyed upon as a woman.
Radar Replay: Cast a spell on your mental health with ‘Practical Magic’
CELEBRATE A SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN WITH A MAGICAL MOVIE THAT HIGHLIGHTS MENTAL HEALTH.
LILIANNA ANGEL Conributing Writer
As All Hallows’ Eve approaches, the air begins to shift, and with it comes the sense that the occult is stirring just beneath the surface. “Practical magic” is the perfect Halloween movie to begin spooky season with.
Offering more witchy feel good energy rather than jump scares, this 1988 classic might seem out of date coming out 26 years ago, but its themes are relevant now more than ever. While the movie didn’t score the highest on Rotten Tomatoes, the audience score was a decent 73%.
The film follows two witch sisters, Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian Owens (Nicole Kidman), are cursed to lose any man they fall in love with. This isn’t just some cheesy rom-com with magic sprinkled in. It’s about family, breaking generational trauma, self-empowerment and how to handle life’s messiness. All of which totally hit in today’s world where people are more focused on self-growth, mental health and finding acceptance.
While the movie isn’t a horror film, nor does it give “Hocus Pocus” vibes, it nails the mystical Halloween spirit. There are witches, curses, ghosts and a few other spooky moments, but the heart of this movie is in its emotional journey. It’s the ideal blend of light and dark; the audience gets the fun, magical elements of the season coupled with a story about love, sisterhood and
self-discovery. This movie delivers the Halloween spirit without the nightmares.
The visuals in “Practical Magic” are truly cozy autumn goals. The Owens family house — reminiscent of a dark Victorian off a witchy Pinterest board — is the perfect backdrop for this magical story. The whole movie just feels like fall, offering warm-toned colors, glowing candles and a comforting eerie feeling. It captures the whole “fall magic” aesthetic in a way that feels timeless. Although the tint at times can be a bit overwhelming, the charm and coziness more than make up for it.
One of the reasons “Practical Magic” still holds up is the way it handles witchcraft. The magic in this movie isn’t all flashy computergenerated imagery (CGI) and big spells; it is brilliantly grounded. While films like Marvel’s “Agatha All Along” have better CGI, “Practical Magic” captures the atmosphere of magic as a form of healing.
The movie explores emotions and personal growth, which was quite ahead of its time when discussion about mental health was considered taboo. Acting as a metaphor for healing and empowerment, the movie is pretty on-brand for today’s audience. In a world where people are really diving into spirituality, energy work, and breaking toxic cycles, this type of magic feels relevant.
The performances in this movie, especially from Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, are what really make it shine. Their chemistry as sisters feels so real, and their bond is the core of the story. They fight, they laugh and they come together when it matters, showing that true strength comes from the people who stand by you.
In “Practical Magic” there is an iconic scene where the sisters and their aunts, along with the other women in their town, come together to banish an evil spirit. It is a great intersectional feminist movie, based on community, healing and solidarity. That scene isn’t just about magic — it’s about what happens when people unite to face the darkness.
Overall, “Practical Magic is the perfect movie for those who don’t want full-on horror. It’s a mix of magic, love, mystery and emotional growth — all wrapped up in the perfect cozy fall aesthetic. Although it might not be the scariest film, it revives the Halloween spirit and is a great reminder that magic isn’t just about spells — it’s about the strength we find in ourselves and each other.
VERDICT:
“Practical Magic,” now 26 years old, was ahead of its time in discussing mental health and offers brilliant spooky vibes for Halloween season.
‘Terrifier 3’: No budget can limit the bounds of creativity
Director Damien Leone’s inventive mind is the key to “Terrifier 3’s” box office success
By: Chloe Alfery, Contributing Writer
Damien Leone’s recently released, “Terrifier 3,” has rightfully earned the title of being his most gruesome installation yet. Just like Art the Clown’s skyrocketing kill count, the movie’s success has soared in a similar manner in the box office, making it the most successful of the trilogy. Working with a theatrical budget of 2 million USD, the movie managed to make its revenue back 20 times over.
The “Terrifier” series is making itself known as the most relevant, bloody up-and-coming horror classic of the modern day. David Howard Thornton has been a big help towards this title’s success; his hilarious and unhinged portrayal of the main antagonist Art draws viewers into the film. But, for a horror movie to reel in this big of an audience, effective kill scenes are just as important as having a solid casting. It is clear that there are visionary aspects at play during Art’s murder rampages, but the film’s scare factor is often unfairly boiled down to its monumental use of gore.
In a short film by the same director, “The 9th Circle,” the conceptual character of Art is shown for the first time. Five years later, Leone brings back the mysterious mime for his first feature film, an anthology titled “All Hallow’s Eve” that was screened at a 2013 film festival. After Art was revealed to more onlookers, he made a lasting impression that left audiences craving more. With the support of crowdfunding contributions, Leone was able to rack up the $35,000 he
Top 5 most gruesome “Saw” traps:
Plus one more because it can and will get worse.
By: Mata Elangovan, Managing Editor
The “Saw” franchise, originally created by Australian filmmakers James Wan and Leigh Whannel in 2004, has now become one of the most famous horror series of all time. Featuring the diabolical works of the Jigsaw Killer, a villainous character who gathers victims to play games for their life, the franchise showcases many gruesome deaths. These are the top five most disturbing deaths featured in the series:
5. The Laser Collars
Debuting in “Jigsaw,” the Laser Collars were a trap designed for Detective Brad Halloran (Callum Keith Rennie) and medical examiner Logan Nelson (Matt Passmore). A fan favorite for its high-tech design, the trap was built to encompass two metal collars connected to the walls, with lasers attached to each of them. If activated, the lasers would turn on and slice apart the victim’s head. The catch here is that one of the collars was removable and fake, while the other was not. The victims would be provided a short time limit as the lasers inch closer and closer to their head lest they confess to their crimes.
4. Scalping Seat
Featured in “Saw IV,” the Scalping Seat is a mechanical chair designed to rip the victim’s scalp off by slowly pulling back their hair. The only way to prevent the trap from killing its victim is through the presence of a second member who is tasked to find the code hidden in the gears to unlock the victim. The device is tested on Brenda (Sarain Boylan), a pimp who forced young women to work as prostitutes, and Daniel Rigg (Lyriq Bent), an officer with a savior complex. Brenda was trapped in the chair and Rigg was tasked with finding the code. The Scalping Seat is a diabolical machine part of a series of tests known as Rigg’s Trials.
needed to fund his first big-screen movie with Art in the starring role. In spite of limitations on props and set expansions from the low budget, the movie still garnered a cult following because of its ambition to push the bounds of horror. The controversial success of the first movie bled over into the second, which is now being allotted $250,000 towards its production. While the second movie developed a concrete storyline and more substantial characters, it allowed for Art’s killing to become even more fantastically twisted. With the extra cash, Leone further delved into his concepts, expanding them to be even bloodier and more repulsive than in the first.
Given that “Terrifier 3” was working with millions of dollars, the bloodshed possibilities became endless for Leone. Aside from Art’s taboo choices becoming an increasingly controversial subject, the third film shows Leone’s imagination in its entirety. From the grotesque rats being led down a tube shot to the infamous shower scene, Art’s new murder methods leave viewers questioning how Leone is able to think up such heinous concepts. While these clips may tend to fall short on the side of realism, they are made up for in writing and direction.
Although the shocking taboo topics of the third movie has become its most defining characteristic to the general public, those who watch “Terrifier 3” can’t help but become entranced by the multitude of methods that Leone has given Art to play out. These morbidly crafted scenes are essential to the appeal of the movie. And with a fourth addition in the works, an even bigger budget will be put to play. As more people are increasingly reeled in to witness the innovative techniques in Art’s eliminations, it is clear that even he could not kill this producer’s morbid creativity.
Verdict: Leone’s “Terrifier 3” has found success through its gore usage. But, the key to its box office success is Leone’s mind.
* Content Warning: this article includes discussion gore, violence, death, blood, destruction and self-mutilation *
3. Freezer Room
The Freezer Room is another of a series of traps known as Jeff’s Trial. The first trap of “Saw III,” the Freezer Room was modified to accommodate a naked victim who would be chained by their arms in the middle of the ceiling. On either side of the victim is a vertical pole fixated with nozzles. Periodically, the victim would be sprayed with icy water and they would be frozen to death in the freezer room. The only way to survive is from another person obtaining a key to free the victim. The scene was chilling one to watch as Danica Scott (Debra Lynne McCabe), the victim in the scene, screamed her heart out and apologized for her past actions to Jeff Denlon (Angus Macfadyen) whose inaction led to her demise.
2. Bathroom Trap
A list like this cannot exist without mentioning the iconic Bathroom Trap which appears repeatedly throughout the franchise. First seen in “Saw,” the trap locks its victims in a bathroom, chained by their ankles on opposite ends of the room. The only way to escape is through rusty hacksaws that they are provided with, and they must make the decision to either cut off their own feet, or die of starvation while locked up. With the mental torture of inflicting self-torture, this trap is one that messes with the viewer’s head as they are left to wonder if they could handle a trap like this themself.
1. Reverse Bear Trap
A fairly simple contraption, the Reverse Bear Trap is one that is repeated throughout the franchise. The original was attached to the victim’s head and secured with a lock and a timer attached to the back. The victim would then be provided 60 seconds to find a way to remove the trap and escape. However, if time ran out, the trap would activate and rip the victim’s upper jaw off from their lower one. A gory mess, the first death to the Reverse Bear Trap was that of Jill Tuck (Betsy Russell) in “Saw 3D,” who could do nothing but panic due to the unfair circumstances of her execution to a former survivor of the trap.
Just when it couldn’t get any more disturbing: Angel Trap
The superior trap of the series is the Angel Trap, another speciality of “Saw III.” Designed to strap the victim to a leather harness, the Angel Trap would suspend them above the floor. On the back of the victim is a device with “arms” of sorts, with brackets hooked into the victim’s ribcage. To escape the trap, the victim has to grab a key from an acid-filled jar which is also suspended from the air. But if they could not make it out within 60 seconds, the trap would activate, spreading its “arms” behind the victims back like an angel’s wings (also providing the trap’s namesake) and would rip the subject’s ribs apart and ultimately kill them.
Listeners drink up the catchiness of ROSÉ and Bruno
Mars’ new single
‘APT’
WAS A PLEASANT SURPRISE FOR FANS.
STELA NOELLE ABASTA Contributing Writer
‘ROSÉ of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK and western singer Bruno Mars collaborated on “APT.”
Released on Oct. 18, this song is a pop-rock track inspired by the Korean drinking game “Apartment.”
In an article by Danielle Chelosky, ROSÉ explains, “APT.” is actually my favorite Korean drinking game … One night, I taught my crew how to play the game … and I said we should make a song out of it.”
In an interview with Vogue, ROSÉ admitted not knowing whether or not it was okay that she made a song about a Korean drinking game. This is understandable due to the negative reception she may receive because of South Korea’s conservative culture. Additionally, she fretted upon whether or not it was too unserious. The track itself is about being attracted to someone and wanting to play the aforementioned “Apartment” game as a way of flirting.
The introduction is ROSÉ chanting, “Chaeyoung’s favorite random game, random game, game start,” in Korean, which is usually chanted with friends during a social setting when it is someone’s turn to pick a random game to play. Chaeyoung is ROSÉ’s Korean name, so this introduction means that it’s ROSÉ’s turn to choose a party game, and as listeners may have guessed, she starts the “Apartment” game. Not only is it a fun and unique way to start any track, but also it grabs listeners’ attention instantly, which is a good
sign if ROSÉ and Bruno Mars want this single to really succeed.
Many western K-pop stans know this chant from Korean game shows that have their favorite idols as guests, so it is widely recognizable. However, this isn’t the first time fun chants in Korean have been incorporated into a single. The chanting is reminiscent of “Mirror Mirror” by Thai artists F.HERO and MILLI, and Changbin of K-pop boy group Stray Kids, which has a part where MILLI, in the beginning of her rap verse, quotes the iconic “Oh, My Song” by K-pop girl group Oh My Girl’s Hyojung.
In the chorus, ROSÉ repeats the word “apartment” in Korean, which is how the drinking game begins. Although a lot of music buffs dislike repetitive choruses, the song can’t help but stick itself into everyone’s heads. The beat kicks in with rhythmic clapping emphasizing her chanting. Listeners clock right away that this song samples from Toni Basil’s “Hey Mickey.” Oftentimes, many shun songs for heavy sampling and lack of uniqueness. However, the sample is just familiar enough for listeners to be pleasantly surprised when they hear it while not being overused to the point of it being a carbon-copy of the original, such as Nicki Minaj’s “Super Freaky Girl.”
Whether K-pop stans want to acknowledge it or not, there are a plethora of K-pop idols that are not truly gifted at singing. There
are many more idols that are better known for their dancing prowess, fast rapping, unworldly beauty or popularity on a survival show. An idol that is stable while singing live is starting to be difficult to come by in the K-pop scene when so many groups rely on autotune and lip syncing. Well-known examples of this are K-pop girl groups aespa and IVE “hitting high notes” with completely straight faces, which is often compared to fellow girl group NMIXX singing when they’re not supposed to, inadvertently proving they’re singing live. ROSÉ’s talent and unique voice were breaths of fresh air to K-pop when BLACKPINK debuted, and listeners are pleased to hear her iconic style of singing once again in the first verse of “APT.” It sounds like a song from the soundtrack of “Teen Beach Movie” with its “Cruisin’ for a Bruisin’”-type melody. It also reminds listeners of Bruno Mars’ older song “Runaway Baby” from his timeless debut album.
The pre-chorus slows down to emphasize a piano being introduced into the background alongside ROSÉ’s voice. Although this is a nice break of pace to the upbeatness of a song, it could use some sort of guitar to really tie together the rock elements that the two artists were going for.
The second verse is Bruno Mars’, and he throws in the Korean word for “cheers” into it, which is a cute touch. Afterwards, the chorus re-
turns, this time with the voices of ROSÉ and Bruno Mars blending together with perfect harmonization, which is unsurprising as both are quite talented singers. The beginning of the bridge kicks in soon after, reminding listeners of Blondie’s “One Way or Another” due to the rock aspects that were missing in the pre-chorus being present here, especially with the drums and ROSÉ saying, “I’m comin’ to getcha, getcha, getcha.” The rest of the bridge is nothing too special with ROSÉ singing, “Hold on, I’m on my way,” repetitively.
Although ROSÉ worried about whether or not people would take this track seriously, listeners conclude that the concept and lyrics add a perfect amount of fun to the single. The lyrics aren’t anything special, but it’s fitting as this was intended to be more of an upbeat, lighthearted track anyways. ROSÉ’s solo discography leans more towards being about serious topics, such as finding herself in “On The Ground” and heartbreak in “Gone.” This makes “APT.” a new and exciting song to put under her belt as a solo artist.
VERDICT: “APT.” is an unexpected but welcome collaboration from two talented singers. Not only is it endlessly catchy, but also it is an all-around great song with its addictive melody, familiar sound, and fun lyrics.
‘Bad Dream’: The best of both worlds
WALLOWS CAPTURES BOTH INDIE AND GRUNGY SOUNDS IN THEIR NEWLY RELEASED SINGLE, FROM THEIR LATEST ALBUM, ‘MODEL.’
IAN PALMA Contributing Writer
On Oct. 18, 2024, indie rock band Wallows released their new single titled, “BAD DREAM.” The single was released in two forms. The first is a standard track that can be found on their latest album, “Model.” The second is in an alternate and original form that strips away the familiar dream-pop sounds the band typically plays, offering a heavier, more grungy tone.
The definitive, uncapitalized track, “Bad Dream,” was featured on “Model” and has a tone akin to many of the songs in the Wallows discography such as “Remember When” and “Pleaser.” The song starts off with an ethereal, shoegazelike tone set by the use of reverb, delay and marching drum cadences common in a lot of indie songs, only
for it to be joined by calming vocals of bassist Braeden Lemasters (a surprising, but a welcome change from Dylan Minette’s popular role as lead vocals). The lyrics share a faltering relationship wrapped up in concern, making it the archetypal indie song, one that belongs with many of the upbeat tracks that could be found on “Model.”
“BAD DREAM,” the capitalized, alternative and original track, contrasts the sound of the uncapitalized version of the song from the get-go. Although this song is completely void of any production value, it compensates for the lack of reverb and delay with distortion. In many ways, the song could be compared to other less prominent tracks of theirs such as “Underneath the
Streetlights in the Winter Outside Your House” and “Sun Tan.” Its angsty tone being emphasized with heavy guitar riffs, the lyrical themes of a relationship in peril become ever so clear.
There are separate reasons to listen to both takes of this single. “Bad Dream” evokes a polished, indie vibe that can be enjoyed by more casual Wallows fans. However, the heavier and rawer, Black Keys-ish sound from “BAD DREAM” further emphasizes the lyrics, expressing the desire to keep a relationship stable. Additionally the alternative track is sure to be appreciated by more embedded fans of the Wallows, especially as the heavy, distorted tones harken back to many of their less known, yet praiseworthy
tracks.
VERDICT: Although the standard track off of their recent album “Model” remains the quintessential version to listen to, “BAD DREAM” is still worth a shot, especially for more seasoned fans of Wallows. ■ H
Sports Highlanders ride early momentum to 1-0 win against Tritons
UCR KEPT THEIR PLAYOFF HOPES ALIVE AGAINST UCSD.
By: Isaac Solnick, Sports Editor
Entering Wednesday’s contest against the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), the Highlanders were still on the outside looking in the Big West playoff picture. Despite going on a fourgame unbeaten run, the University of California, Riverside (UCR) needed to leave La Jolla with three points. Before the game, the Tritons boasted an impressive 3-0-0 (W-L-D) conference record at Triton Soccer Stadium. The Highlanders had their work cut out for them. Fortunately, UCR escaped the gates quickly.
Just 11 minutes in, the Highlanders capitalized on a cheap turnover by the Tritons. After a heavy touch from UCSD’s senior midfielder, Andrew McGee, sophomore fullback Jackson D’Alessandro pounced on the loose ball. Then, he danced around junior Adam Hillis. As D’Alessandro played it out wide to senior forward Luka Lukic, the rest of the Tritons were slow to get back. Lukic worked the ball onto his left foot and whipped a cross into the box for freshman midfielder Tarek Hamideh. Hamideh squeezed between two Tritons and headed the ball past senior goalkeeper Nolan Premack.
Hamideh’s first collegiate career goal put the Highlanders ahead 1-0 early on. But with almost 80 minutes of soccer left to be played, it was crucial that the Highlanders kept their heads in the game. In last year’s fixture against UCSD, UCR scored two early goals, but allowed the Tritons to respond with five unanswered goals of their own.
This time, the Highlanders did a much better job staying organized defensively. Often dropping into a 5-3-2 shape without the ball, UCR remained compact and made it hard for the Tritons to find any offensive flow. Despite lacking chances and falling behind early, UCSD also kept their cool.
They clearly weren’t rushing to get the equalizer right away. Rather than press UCR’s trio of center backs, their front line sat deep without the ball. When the Highlanders triggered a press, the Tritons were willing to take their time and even pass back to Premack in the buildup phase.
The Highlanders took their 1-0 lead into halftime, but still had a lot more work to do. In the second half, the Tritons developed a sense of urgency. Rather than look for crosses and cutbacks and stretch the Highlanders horizontally like they did in the first half. UCSD was more willing to play the long ball and shoot from outside the box.
However, the Highlanders used a combination of pace and hustle to deal with the long passes and second balls. The UCR backline was also willing to put their bodies on the line and block shots from the Tritons. Almost every shot that did make it through the Highlanders
either missed wide of the net or floated over the crossbar. Although, there was one shaky moment at the 77-minute mark. Freshman forward Kai Oppenheim’s curling strike flew over the head of senior goalkeeper Carlos Gonzalez and bounced off the crossbar and out. The Highlanders breathed a sigh of relief as D’Alessandro cleared away the rebound. Apart from that, UCR’s defensive unit was rock solid and neutralized any threat the Tritons posed.
In the final minutes, head coach Tim Cupello called upon freshman defender Ermias Yohannes to help see out the impending victory. As time ran out for UCSD, the Highlanders leapfrogged the Tritons in the Big West standings and back into the playoff picture.
The good times wouldn’t last, however. In Saturday’s road contest against California State University, Bakersfield, the Highlanders went down 3-0 in the first half in an eventual 4-1 loss. Cupello sent a message to his players by bringing on ten different substitutes during the match. Even replacing Gonzalez with debuting redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Andrew Hermosillo. One can hope it's the wake-up call UCR needs before their final Big West regular season game against the University of California, Santa Barbara at home on Nov. 2.
Courtesy of Apollo Kudsi / The Highlander ■ H
UCR men’s basketball shines in exhibition game against Cal State San Marcos
By: Terry Nguyen, Assistant Sports Editor
"KALEB SMITH AND BARRINGTON HARGRESS LEAD THE WAY FOR THE HIGHLANDERS WITH 41 COMBINED POINTS."
The University of California, Riverside (UCR) hosted California State University, San Marcos in an exhibition Friday night, as the team ramps up for the regular season slated to begin Nov. 4 at Oregon. The Highlanders were in control of the game from the opening tip, as they rolled to a 89-61 victory over the Cougars.
Redshirt sophomores Barrington Hargress and Kaleb Smith led the way for the Highlanders, as they combined for 41 points on 17 out of 25 combined shooting. Smith asserted his physicality early as he accounted for 7 of the first 12 points and finished the night with 11 rebounds to lead the team.
Smith saw his minutes grow as the season matured last year. Elaborating on what he hoped to take away from the game, he shared that he is “just [trying to grow] confidence … [and] help the team overall. [It’s] most important that we win and [I think] we’ll be in a great position to [do so].
“We have a really deep roster … once we get our guys back, like Parker Strauss [and] Joel Armotrading, and we have our full squad … we’re all ready to go kill [and] get wins [against higher ranked teams].”
Hargress was hard to stop on Friday night, as he consistently broke down defenders and created his own shots all game long. His quick first step and tight handle makes him hard to defend on the perimeter, and it’s easy to see why he’s on the Preseason AllBig West First Team.
Hargress touched on his hopes for the team this year, and how he aspires to lead, stating, “Just making sure that I’m a more composed guy, more of a leader to my teammates [and trying to]
direct them, make sure they’re comfortable [since] I’ve done this before now, I’m just trying to be like a fountain [and] really give to my guys right now.”
Another bright spot for the Highlanders was redshirt junior, Gavin Davis. Davis did not play last year, but head coach Mike Magpayo sees him as possessing a bigger role for the team this season. Commenting on Davis, Magpayo shared, “He’s a 7 a.m. guy, every single day … and he’s a piece of the puzzle. We had two top guys out, Joel Armotrading and Parker Strauss, so that [possessing the] next man up mentality, Gavin Davis stepped up which was good [to see].”
Davis dropped 15 points and went three for six from downtown, and showed flashes of what he could be for the Highlanders. With his catch-and-shoot abilities from beyond the arc, he could see more minutes as the season goes on. The first five games on the schedule for UCR are against Division I opponents, and Magpayo gave his early impressions on their schedule, explaining, “We have a brutal opening slate, our first six games are probably the number one hardest strength of schedule in the country … but I think this group has a certain confidence and attitude that they’re gonna go in there and try to win every single game we play.”
The Highlanders are underdogs for their first two games, where they will visit the Oregon Ducks and the Brigham Young University Cougars. Last season, UCR got off to a slow start during the regular season as they fell to as low as 7-12, before finishing the year at 15-17. Magpayo and the crew are hoping to get off to a faster start this season, as they return a lineup with more experienced players. All starters are returning except for recent graduate, Kyle Owens.
Courtesy of Senna Omar / The Highlander
UCR women’s volleyball fall short against UC Irvine, in 3-0 game
TRINITY SHERIDAN’S 14 KILLS NOT ENOUGH TO PUT DOWN ANTEATERS.
By: Sofia Majeed, Contributing Writer
The University of California, Riverside (UCR) women’s volleyball team lost to University of California, Irvine (UCI) 3-0 on Saturday afternoon. Although the Highlanders started off strong, they were unable to continue to feed off that energy throughout the duration of the game.
The Highlanders now have an overall record of 7-16 and a conference record of 2-8. The first set began with UCR getting the first point, and some strong back and forth which ultimately ended with UCI winning the first set, landing at 25-18. During the first set, after junior outside hitter Kailyn Jager and senior right side Carissa Wiles pushed through with aggressive energy, UCI unfortunately took a time out and came back strong, eventually winning them the set.
At the beginning of the second set, the Highlanders came in strong with sophomore outside hitter Jessica Dean. After a few back and forths, it appeared the UCI Anteaters built off their momentum from set one and the Highlanders struggled to find their pace.
Down by six points, UCR called a timeout before hopping back into the game. Set two moved at a much faster pace than earlier features. Sophomore right side Trinity Sheridan heated up, eventually leading the Highlanders with 14 kills. With Dean setting her up, sophomore outside hitter Mia Delahoussaya shined during set two. Her multiple kills kept the Highlanders alive in set two. UCR appeared to have a chance down 5 points, but after a UCI timeout, the Anteaters converted their lead into a set two win.
Third set began with a strong serve and aggressive rally between the teams. With plenty of fight left in them, Delahoussaye, Jager and Sheridan continued to excel. However, UCI entered the third with the intention of closing the same out in this set. With little resistance from the Highlanders, they were able to do just that. UCI easily took the third set 2514, completing the sweep. With the loss, the Highlanders dropped to 2-8 in the Big West. UC Riverside will play their next match on the road against California State University, Long Beach on Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.
Mia Delahoussaya, #6
Jessica Dean, #8
Carissa Wiles, #10
Kailyn Jager, #11
Images courtesy of UCR Athletics
Trinity Sheridan, #5
Be scary.
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