Warmth (Poem By: Alessia Collia)

Warmth

I wrap myself up and try to hide.

To hide, to protect, to keep, what's inside.

I go out in armour but without sword.

Akin to a dragon, I'll smoke and I'll hoard. 

I leave from my stronghold, charge into the spray.

Hoping my treasure, with me shall stay.

The blades as sharp as any dagger, arrow or mace.

Cutting and stinging as they swing by my face.

My eyes are downcast, though there is little sun. 

It seems that the battle is already won.

For now I can see through the horrible white. 

How can I just give in, give up the fight?

I try to find strength, to complete my task.

But now I can see it is too much to ask. 

Defeated, I give up and trudge back inside. 

Trying to regain what I could not hide.  

By: Alessia Collia 

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The House of Hades Is Godly: House of Hades Book Review

  Rick Riordan has produced a book from the realm of demons and it is amazing.

Being the fourth novel in the 5-part popular young adult series, the Heroes of Olympus, (which was a sequel series to the 5-part Percy Jackson series making it this book the ninth installment featuring the characters), the House of Hades released on October 8 to much anticipation and Rick Riordan did not disappoint.

After the cliffhanger of the previous book, the Mark of Athena, the story takes place in the Greek equivalent of the Devil's realm, Tartarus. It features two of its seven main characters, Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase, trekking through the perilous land, in an attempt to close the Doors of Death, which is allowing monsters to pour through to our world. As these two tell the tale from the Underworld, the other 5 characters are shown adventuring up here on Earth, trying to close the doors from the other side. The story is told through third person point of view, alternating through all 7 characters. Although the alternating point of views was the standard format for the entire series, Riordan only had three or four characters narrate, to avoid overcrowding. This time, as he unleashes the horrors of Tartarus, he also takes the narration up a notch, and lets all 7 characters share their sides of the story. He manages to pull it off quite nicely, and makes each characters inner story engaging, yet balance with the others, marking his skill as a writer. Also well appreciated is his courage to make controversial decisions. Starting from the dedication, in which he pokes fun at the fans, to the unusual darkness and terrors in the book, Rick Riordan is not afraid of what he puts in his books. He also makes some other bold moves, that show he is not just striving to create a magical world (influence from the Harry Potter books is noticeable), but reflect the real world as well. All is commendable and well done. As for the story itself, he creates an ominous tone, which is put to an epic scale, setting up the pieces for the conclusion, the Blood of Olympus, which releases fall of next year.

The House of Hades may be meant to be a prelude to the conclusion next year, it is jam packed with intriguing story elements, that rather than overcrowd, are balanced with precision of a master, who has created his finest work yet.

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More Amazing Spider-man 2 on the Web: The International Trailer Review

It seemed that there was hardly any footage from the upcoming Amazing Spider-man 2, but now there is no shortage of it. Just a week ago, Sony Pictures released the first trailer for their movie, which we reviewed here at Word on the Street. Now, an international trailer has hit the web (no pun intended), which is subtitled in German, and features more glimpses from the film, which we are here again to review. 

While the American trailer focused on the action scenes of Spiderman and displayed bright colored fight scenes, massive explosions, and shots of not one or two, but three villains, the new one focuses on the life of Peter Parker. A major difference is the humor. We get some genuine chuckles watching Peter Parker's witty remarks and attempts to conceal his identity. Andrew Garfield seems ready to take on the lighter side of his character with energy and enthusiasm, though takes the somber lines seriously, fitting the mood of Spiderman perfectly. The supporting cast is also seems strong, showing acting that feels genuine in the little screen time we see. We don't see anything new from the villains however and little is unfamiliar in the action scenes, but since we have enough of explosive battles shown in movies, it is refreshing to have the humorous and light side of the film take center stage.

All in all, the international trailer gives the same basic sum of the movie, though reveals a cheery side that is a pleasant surprise. Excitement is boosting and it seems many have a new summer flick to add to their calendar.

The Amazing Spiderman 2 will be released on May 2, 2014, starring Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Sally Field, Dane Dehann, Jamie Foxx, Paul Giamatti, and Chris Cooper.

A link to the international trailer is provided below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa7DLY4AC5Q

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Raising the Curtain on Les Misérables

This Holiday season, on it’s 50^th anniversary, Mirvish theatre brings Toronto Les Misérables. Victor Hugo’s epic novel is brought to life on stage in a vivid explosion of song. The Princess of Wales theatre hosts the odyssey of Jean Valjean as he and those around him navigate through misfortune and misery in France during the 1700’s. The play includes a series of ethical dilemmas that contribute to its emotional complexity and intrigue. The story begins in 1815 with a glimpse at Valjean’s life in chains under Officer Javert. Followed by his attempt at integration into a prejudiced society. After one act of profound kindness Valjean is inspired to start his life anew and transforms from convict to gentleman by breaking parole. We are reunited with Valjean years later in his new life as “Monsieur Madeleine”; Mayor and factory owner. In his factory we meet Fantine, a single mother, and experience her descent to despair. Despite discovery of his true identity by Javert, Valjean promises to save Fantine’s child Cossette, who is lodging with the humorously sinister Thénadiers. We recap with Valjean and Cossette – now a woman- in Paris where we are instantly swept up in the early stages of revolution and the love story of Cossette and Marius. Instantly the story takes a turn for the worse when Jean and Cossette are forced to leave Paris to hide from returning rivals. Despite this the battle on the barricades still goes on, with Valjean among the schoolboys intent on saving his daughter’s only love. After many heart wrenching fatalities and the eventual fate of our two lovers, the production ends on a brilliant note of bittersweet hope. 

Immediately we are fixated in the world of France in the 1700’s by the scenery - complex and aesthetically interesting structures that move seamlessly throughout the scenes and envelop the characters in a beautiful display reflecting the essence of the setting. The costumes characterize the actors while communicating status, and of course the omnipresent theme of the time period and place. Special effects such as strobe lights and projections were used to create the more difficult settings, and were used in a way that astounded the audience. Props were used artfully and properly with thoughtfulness from both actor and stage director.

In all aspects the performance provided by the cast was stellar. Raw emotion was evident in their beautiful solos, and the echo of the time resonated in the chorus. Ramin Karimloo plays Jean Valjean and carries the audience seamlessly through the life of Jean Valjean with strong vocal and physical expression. Genevieve Leclerc plays Fantine, and shakes us with her supreme rendition of “I dreamed a dream”. The young Ella Ballantine sings an angelic version of “Castle on a Cloud” as young Cossette.  Lisa Horner and Cliff Saunders lighten the mood with “Master of the House” as Mr. and Mrs. Thénadier. “A heart full of love” is sung by Samantha Hill and Perry Sherman as lovebirds Cossette and Marius. The passion of the song was only rivaled by Melissa O’Neil’s dramatic performance of “On my own” as Éponine.

The music of les Misérables is the gleaming capstone of the production. The orchestra was divine, and performed with as much gusto and energy as the actors. The conductor and musical director James Dodgeson timed each song perfectly to the occurrences on the stage above. The lyrics bore the most weight, as they are the sole method of linguistic communication in the play. The melody set the mood and the lyrics voiced emotion in a haunting and thrilling specimen of auditory storytelling.  My favorite song, by far, was ‘The People’s Song” sung by the chorus of Frenchmen to rally the people to the barricades and fantasizing of a better tomorrow, appealing to the dreamer, hero, and human in all of us. 

Directors, Laurence Connor and James Powell have wielded all the elements of musical theatre and stage performance to their advantage fostering a unique experience of les Misérables.

The storyline in it’s entirety is very dark but the glimpses of hope, perseverance, and human kindness make it truly a tale for the ages. 

                                                                                                 By: Alessia Collia 

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The Amazing Spiderman 2 Trailer Amazes: Trailer Review

Spiderman is making his return (for the fifth time) in the Amazing Spiderman 2, the sequel to 2012’s reboot. After much hype and leaked footage appearing online, which desperate fans used as a glimpse, Sony has released the first official trailer for their sequel, which swings through 2 minutes of action, teases, and excitement. 

 

            The Amazing Spiderman, while being a solid reboot and enjoyable film, was not a masterpiece. Luckily, it seems that the director Marc Webb (ironic name for a Spiderman director) has been taking notes from the fan reaction. A major complaint was the grittiness and darkness of the first movie (an obvious attempt to capitalize on the success of the Batman movies) which many felt was not a fitting trait for Spiderman. There is an immediate change here, as the trailer shows a more colorful and very bright display, though it may be too bright due to heavy CGI usage, which is slightly worrisome, Webb deserves credit for improving that factor. Also lighting things up is the new antagonist Electro, played by Jamie Foxx, who provides lightning effects that spark an interest in him, not just by his power, but his story and sympathetic side. 

 

And while looking at villains, also opposing Spiderman is Rhino, played by Paul Giamatti, and the Green Goblin, played by Dane Dehaan. Rhino is originally a thug who gains a rhino armor, giving him super strength, while the movie is taking a version where his suit is purely robotic. 

 

However, the real interest is in the Green Goblin, who was already seen in the 2002 Spiderman movie. Traditionally, Norman Osborn is the Goblin, but this version uses Harry Osborn, his son, who has taken up the mantle at one point himself. Even though Norman is the true Goblin, Harry isn't too far of a departure. His design, however, is different. Over here, Harry is wearing black armor, green face makeup, and spiky, green hair. The jury is still out on how he will impress at the movies. 

 

 The trailer offers an equal amount of glimpse at all three villains in the trailer, though it is worrisome to think how effectively the villains will be balanced in the movie. As many people know, too many villains is rarely a good thing. The trailer also shows a personal side of Peter's life, featuring his love interest, Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone), whose fate is ominous. Also shown is Peter's Aunt May, who is being given some secrets of her own, and the further mystery of Peter's parents, while showing some footage from what seems to be an answer to the untold story. Peter's life seems to be as interesting here as his life as Spiderman. Andrew Garfield seems to handle both aspects of Spidey's life well and stays true to the character.

Mixing electrifying action, bright color, glimpses at what seems to be solid villains, and an intriguing story, the trailer grasps popularity and the footage gains thrills from the general audiences. Also included are winks to comic fans, which is a sure way to gain approval. The Amazing Spiderman 2 seems to be what Spiderman fans have been looking for, as well as more than a solid film for the audience at large, if the trailer is the standard for the movie. 

Below are pictures that contain teasers for fans hidden in the amazing glimpse, as well as a link to the trailer itself. 

 

 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbp3Ra3Yp74 

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The Ridge Concert and Chamber Choirs Make Their Mark at Queen's Park

Last Wednesday, both Chamber Choir and Concert Choir performed at the Ontario Legislature, Queen's Park, as part of the Legislative Assembly's Ontario Youth Arts Holiday Concert Program.

Even though not all of the members were able to represent the Ridge at the event, those present pulled off quite a show for their spectators. Their repertoire included: O Canada, Pure Imagination (a song from the 1971 movie Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory), Ipharadisi and Siyahamba (African tribal songs), and Light Up the World (a song from the hit TV series, Glee).  A big "thank you" goes out to Ms. Belanger and Mr. McConvey, for all their work to make this possible!

Standing on the grand staircase singing are Ridge's Chamber and Concert Choirs. 

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Teachers Strut Their Stache! (By: Angelica Rivas)

Last Friday at lunch, students of the Ridge came out to support teachers that have been growing their moustache for the month of November. For those of you who don't know, Movember is a global movement in which men are encouraged to grow a moustache for the 30-days of November, as a way of combating  Prostate Cancer by raising money and awareness for the cause. At "Strut Your Stache", each teacher is asked to individually walk down a purple catwalk, while flaunting their newly grown facial hair. The teachers are then awarded with certificates and prizes, which are determined by you - the students. Some of this years' winners include; Mr. Phillips - Fullest Moustache, Mr. Devine - Creepiest Moustache, Mr. Beck - Funniest Moustache, Mr. Butler - Most Creative Moustache, Mr.Bighham - Weirdest Moustache and Mr. Caldwell - Best Overall.  Student Council would like to extend a big thank you to all the teachers who participated in Movember and to all the students who came out to support the teachers!

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Thor the Dark World Review

Thor the Dark World Review

Earlier this month, Marvel released the eight installment in their popular cinematic universe, centering around one of their characters, Thor. As a followup to the 2011 debut of the character, the plot continues the story of Thor, this time pitting him against the villainous Malekith, who threatens to plunge the very universe into darkness. Does this movie succeed with the flashiness and splendor of a true Thor based Marvel movie, or does it fall into a dark abyss?

As the third appearance of Thor, viewers were well familiar with the character and his portion of the larger world. Without the baggage of an origin, the story of the characters we love has gone into full flow, starting wisely with the fan beloved Loki. Audiences do have to wait a little, as they have to be introduced to the new villain and his backstory for the first ten minutes before that. The opening plot has the generic story of a villain losing a precious artifact to the good side (this time the Aether) and returning with every intent on revenge. Despite some slightly tedious time being given away for him, the villain Malekith really doesn't have any special magic to his character. However, the villain from the previous movie, Loki, retains love from the audience and more than makes up for the mediocrity of the previous villain. Loki is easily the best part of the film, invoking comedy, sympathy, and confusion, as he well earns the title of god of mischief. Fans never know his true intentions even to the end, and he is even more loved because of it. Despite Loki being more popular, the main character cannot be forgotten. Thor is more mature and fleshed out now. This may not be the best thing though. His flaws from the first film made him more interesting and he seems a little flat now. Now he leaves little room for development and he cannot be taken much further. His love interest Jane Foster, on the other hand, has more to do and is an improvement since her cinematic debut. Odin continues his streak as a poor father, remaining as average as before, though Thor's mother, Frigga, is a major improvement, with a pleasantly surprising scene full of epic action. She has more to do in this film and really invokes powerful moments that rival and accompanies Loki's. 

In the end, the main protagonist and antagonist are weaker, but the supporting cast is so much stronger, making this sequel an improvement. Loki makes this all the more better. The story contains the regular Marvel fun, with Loki's twists and even further improvement enhancing it. Overall, Thor the Dark World is a highly entertaining film, honoring the Marvel legacy and including Loki, which is a definite bonus. 

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Trial Post (Catching Fire)- Alessia C

Movie Preview

Catching Fire hit theatres this past Friday (Nov. 22) Introducing new personalities such as Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason, this flick is sure to please any hardcore fan! 

May the Odds Be Ever In Your Favour

Alessia C

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'Delivery Man' Fails to Deliver

Vince Vaughn's New Comedy Bombs

This weekend, Vince Vaughn’s comedy movie ‘Delivery Man’ was destroyed at the box office by its competition, including the latest movie in the Hunger Games trilogy ‘Catching Fire’. Curious to see how a movie featuring beloved comedian Vince Vaughn could do so bad, I decided to do a little research. What I found did not do the movie any favours. A pitiful score of 36% and a general consensus amongst reviewers that the movie was one of the worst released this year. And the timing for this movie could not be any worse, as Vince Vaughn has already had a bad comedy outing this year in the abysmal film ‘The Internship’, another comedy that fell flat on its face. Vine Vaughn’s attempts at playing characters outside of his, and his viewer’s comfort zones have not paid off for him. Vince Vaughn needs to go back to his usual narcissistic comedic self, not this sobbing man-child trying to make sense of the world, that we have been seeing him portray recently.  ‘Delivery Man’ fails to deliver (ha! So funny!) to his audiences in the way he did in movies like ‘Dodge-ball’ and this is disappointing. Vince Vaughn joins 2013’s cemetery of bad movies like After Earth, The Fifth Estate, Identity Thief, The Internship, The Lone Ranger The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters, and R.I.P.D. One can only hope Vince Vaughn can dig himself out of this film abyss next year.

                        Skye’s the Limit

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