26 Most Anticipated Films of 2013

     As most of you probably know, I am somewhat of a film aficionado, a movie geek if you will. I am always looking for moments in day to day conversation where my encyclopedia-like knowledge of cinema (wow that sounded pretentious) may be able to come into play. So naturally, because it is now 2013, I must make a list of the movies I am the most excited for. This was originally supposed to be a list of ten, but ten became twenty and twenty became twenty-five and, well, I finally decided on 26 films that I am most excited for in this year of the black snake. These are in almost no particular order, though there are some that I am more enthusiastic about than others. I will try to include a short description of each movie as well as some commentary on ones that I am most excited about. Well, without further ado, here is my list of 26 most anticipated films of 2013:

26: Oz The Great and Powerful

“A small-time magician with questionable ethics arrives in a magical land and must choose between becoming a good man or a great one.” Yes, this prequel to The Wizard of Oz made my list. Personally I will watch anything with Mila Kunis, so yes I would have seen it regardless of its reviews, but I am actually excited for this one. The fact that it is based off of the original book and not just some mindless cash-grab makes me feel more confident about it. Also Mila Kunis is in it.

25: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

“The Dwarves, Bilbo and Gandalf have successfully escaped the Misty Mountains, and Bilbo has gained the One Ring. They all continue their journey to get their gold back from the Dragon, Smaug.”

While I am not a huge Lord of the Rings fan, I did enjoy the first installment of The Hobbit: There and Back Again trilogy. It was very fun and enjoyable. So I am excited for this sequel, especially since Benedict Cumberbatch (of BBC’s Sherlock) is voicing Smaug.

24: Trance

“An art auctioneer who has become mixed up with a group of criminals partners with a hypnotherapist in order to recover a lost painting.” This is a movie that I am EXTREMELY excited for. While it is not for everybody, (it’s violent, to say the least) I do think that it as a cool twist on the “You’ve Messed With The Wrong People” plot. The cinematography looks beautiful, the cast is great, and Danny Boyle (Director of 127 Hours and Trainspotting) has never failed to impress.

23: Monsters University

“A look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at the University of Fear — when they weren’t necessarily the best of friends.” There’s really not much to say about this one. Let’s just hope Pixar doesn’t pull a “Cars 2” on us. Fingers crossed.

22: Carrie

“A sheltered high school girl unleashes her newly developed telekinetic powers after she is pushed too far by her peers.” Carrie was the first Stephen King book I ever read, so it holds a special place in my heart. I like Chloe Grace Moretz (of Hugo and Kick-Ass fame) and the director is pretty fearless, so I have some high hopes for this one. Whether the movie ends up being good or bad, the book is great. Just saying.

21: Oldboy

“An advertising executive is kidnapped and held hostage for 20 years in solitary confinement. When he is inexplicably released, he embarks on an obsessive mission to discover who orchestrated his punishment, only to find he is still trapped in a web of conspiracy and torment.” I am a huge fan of the 2003 Korean film of the same name. It’s a mind-bending, beautifully dark revenge flick that I still find myself thinking about from time to time. Now while I don’t particularly like Spike Lee, (he hasn’t made a decent movie since 2006’s Inside Man) I am interested with how this film turns out. At best it’ll match the greatness of the original, and at worst it’ll get people interested in the original. I guess it’s a win-win.

20: Oblivion

“A court martial sends a veteran soldier to a distant planet, where he has to destroy the remains of an alien race. The arrival of an unexpected traveler causes him to question what he knows about the planet, his mission, and himself.” When I first heard this name, I immediately became excited. Sadly, this is not the Elder Scrolls movie many of us have been waiting for. I was not disappointed for long, however, because I love Tom Cruise and the trailer looked awesome. Let me write out an equation for you:

Tom Cruise = Awesome; Morgan Freeman = Awesome; Tom Cruise and Morgan Freeman are in Oblivion; therefore, Oblivion = Awesome x2…… Math.

19: Gravity

“Astronauts attempt to return to earth after debris crashes into their space shuttle, leaving them drifting alone in space.” A space drama starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney directed by the guy who made Children of Men? TAKE MY MONEY. JUST TAKE IT.

18: The Place Beyond the Pines

“A motorcycle stunt rider turns to robbing banks as a way to provide for his lover and their newborn child, a decision that puts him on a collision course with an ambitious rookie cop navigating a department ruled by a corrupt detective.” I really enjoy Ryan Gosling. I also really enjoyed Blue Valentine. This is the reteaming of Gosling and Valentine director Derek Cianfrance, so I already have high hopes for it. It also stars Bradley Cooper, who I am actually beginning to like after his performance in Silver Linings Playbook. The trailer got me pretty excited for it as well. I’m sold.

17: Sin City: A Dame to Kill For

There isn’t a trailer for this movie yet. There isn’t even a synopsis. I’m excited for this movie because of it’s name alone. If you like stylish action and crime noir movies, then you’ll probably enjoy Sin City, a 2005  Robert Rodriguez film based off the Frank Miller comics of the same name. It’s violent, funny, and has an all-star cast. If this sequel is anything like the original, which it’s shaping up to be, I’m going to enjoy it.

16: Stoker

“After India’s father dies, her Uncle Charlie, who she never knew existed, comes to live with her and her unstable mother. She comes to suspect this mysterious, charming man has ulterior motives and becomes increasingly infatuated with him.” Murder. Intrigue. Mystery. Asian-ness…? This movie is director Chan-wook Park’s first venture into American filmmaking, and I’m *insert adjective for “excited.”* If you don’t know who Chan-wook Park is, he directed Oldboy. You know, that movie I mentioned earlier. The one I said I loved. Well much like Oldboy, this film looks both beautiful and creepy, which isn’t a very easy thing to do.

15: The Great Gatsby

“Nick Carraway, a Midwesterner now living on Long Island, finds himself fascinated by the mysterious past and lavish lifestyle of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby. He is drawn into Gatsby’s circle, becoming a witness to obsession and tragedy.” I don’t know whether or not The Great Gatsby is still read Sophomore year, but regardless, I still recommend reading the book. Anyway, this film is directed by Baz Luhrmann, who is known for his unique visual style. Most of you have seen his film Romeo + Juliet so you get what I mean. His movie Moulin Rouge is also one of my favorite movie/musicals of all time. Also, Leonardo DiCaprio is Gatsby. That is all.

14: Anchorman: The Legend Continues

I love lamp.

13: This Is The End

“While attending a party at James Franco’s house, Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel and many other celebrities are faced with the apocalypse.” It is a movie in which celebrities play themselves during the apocalypse. Let the raunchy hilariousness ensue.

12: Elysium

“Set in the year 2159, where the very wealthy live on a man-made space station while the rest of the population resides on a ruined Earth, a man takes on a mission that could bring equality to the polarized worlds.” I have been looking forward to Neill Blomkamp’s (director of District 9) return to the big screen and this movie does not look like it will disappoint. I was very impressed in his ability to ground science fiction into reality with District 9 and the way he adds in some social commentary without sounding too preachy. Let’s just say August can’t come soon enough.

11: BBC’s Sherlock

I first stumbled upon the BBC series Sherlock back in 2010. I was coming off a Doctor Who spree and was itching for more high quality British television. I had read about Sherlock, so I decided to give it a go. That was one of the best decisions I ever made. Okay so that may be an exaggeration, but only a slight one. Sherlock is some first class television. The writing is smart and the acting by Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman is top notch. While it is a TV show, I am counting it as a film because each episode is 80 minutes long and it has some of the best writing and acting of any entertainment medium. If you don’t like it, well, this isn’t your list.

10: The World’s End

“Five friends who reunite in an attempt to top their epic pub crawl from 20 years earlier unwittingly become humankind’s only hope for survival.” This film is made by the guys who did Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, which are two films that I enjoy very much. Both films are clever and hilarious and are some of the best buddy movies ever made. Hopefully this will be too.

9: Kick-Ass 2

“The costumed high-school hero Kick-Ass joins with a group of normal citizens who have been inspired to fight crime in costume. Meanwhile, the Red Mist plots an act of revenge that will affect everyone Kick-Ass knows.” I loved the first Kick-Ass, so naturally I have been counting down the days until the sequel comes out. Well, this is the year, and man am I ready. I love artsy movies as much as the next guy, but I also know how to appreciate a fun, action comedy romp like Kick-Ass. This movie has most of the main cast returning, along with a new face to the Kick-Ass world: Jim Carrey. I know Jim hasn’t been in some good movies lately, but I’m not giving up hope on the guy who brought me to tears of laughter in Liar Liar and tears of joy in The Truman Show.

8: Inside Llewyn Davis

“A singer-songwriter navigates New York’s folk music scene during the 1960s.” The Coen Brothers have been making quality cinema for years. Inside Llewyn Davis is their new film. It’s set in the 1960s, an era I love; it centers around music, a topic I love; and it has a whole bunch of awesome actors, all of whom I love.

7: Ender’s Game

“70 years after a horrific alien war, an unusually gifted child is sent to an advanced military school in space to prepare for a future invasion.” I recently read Orsen Scott Card’s science fiction novel Ender’s Game and it quickly jumped into my top ten favorite books of all time. I’m not a big sci-fi fan so I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. This movie is directed by Gavin Hood, who directed Tsotsi and Rendition, and stars Asa Butterfield, Abigail Breslin, Viola Davis, and Harrison Ford. I know it may not seem like I am excited about this movie, but I promise you, I am. It’s just difficult to put into words.

6: Man of Steel

“A young journalist raised by his adoptive parents after he was transported to Earth in infancy from the dying planet of Krypton finds himself in the position to save humankind after Earth is attacked.” We’ve seen this story countless times: Superman. I was ready to discard this movie, to throw it away in the metaphorical trashcan in my mind, but after reading more and more about it, I became hopeful. It’s written by David S. Goyer, writer of the Dark Knight trilogy, and it has a great cast. The second trailer for this movie had me sold.

5: Evil Dead

“Five friends head to a remote cabin, where the discovery of a Book of the Dead leads them to unwittingly summon up demons living in the nearby woods. The evil presence possesses them until only one is left to fight for survival.” This movie looks messed up in the best possible way. Horror was the first adult genre I was exposed to as a child. I would go to Blockbuster’s horror section every time my family went. 1981’s The Evil Dead was the first “old” horror film I saw, and boy did I love it. It was frightening, hilarious, bloody, and just all around a good time. It’s a classic. When I heard about the remake, I was worried. I didn’t want this film to turn into one of those torture Saw wastes of time that most recent horror films have been. When I heard that Sam Rami and Bruce Campbell (creators of the original movie) were behind this film 100%, I eased up. It wasn’t until the first trailer came out that I became ridiculously excited for it. This is most definitely not one for everybody, especially those under 17. I wouldn’t take my mother to see this movie, let alone my grandmother. It’s already broken the record for most fake blood used in a movie, using 50,000 gallons in just one scene. I would only recommend this to horror fans, though if you are willing to give it a try and aren’t squeamish, go right ahead and watch the red-band trailer.

4: Pacific Rim

It’s robots fighting alien/dinosaur looking things and it’s directed by Guillermo Del Toro. If you’re looking for a good time, here it is.

3: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

“Katniss and Peeta’s victory is cut short as the Quarter Quell puts them back into the Hunger Games for the second time.” Boom, HUNGER GAMES! The books are great, the first movie was cool, Jennifer Laurence is amazing, I’m in.

2: Star Trek Into Darkness

“After the crew of the Enterprise find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one man weapon of mass destruction.” As I said before, I’m not really a sci-fi fan, but man am I ready for this to come out. I actually enjoyed the first Star Trek remake, and this one looks to be even better. The sets look great, the cast is back, J.J. Abrams’ signature lens flairs are there, and Benedict Cumberbatch is the main villain. The eight minute preview that was shown in front of select screenings of The Hobbit was really just the icing on the cake.

1: Iron Man 3

“ Marvel’s ‘Iron Man 3’ pits brash-but-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds (Mandarin). When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy’s hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?” Is that enough to get you pumped up? No? What if I tell you that this is directed by the same guy (Shane Black) who directed Robert Downey Jr.’s 2005 flick Kiss Kiss Bang Bang? What? You’ve never seen that movie? Go (If you’re over 17 or have a parent with you) and watch it now. Then come back and tell me how excited you are.

Well that was a much longer journey than I had anticipated. If you’ve stuck with me for the past 2,700 words I applaud you, because I probably would have gotten bored. As you can see, there are a lot of movies to be excited for this year. I am sure I missed some really great ones, and I wouldn’t be surprised if some of these turned out to be huge flops, but I will sleep easy at night knowing that some of you will call me out on it and tell me how dumb my opinions are. This is the age of YouTube after all. But that’s a different article all together. So that’s it. The list is finished. Feel free to come talk to me about what movies you’re excited for. Who knows? We might even become friends or whatever.

The Great Gatsby

It was supposed to be released last year on Christmas but producers worried that the inclusion of Leonardo DiCaprio in Django combined with this film would be “Too much Leo in the movies during the holidays.” All I have to say is that there is no such thing as too much Leo. This is going to be a great film brought to you by Baz Luhrmann who has an incredibly creative way of mixing modernity with classic gilded age drama. A movie that plays “No Church in the Wild” during the trailer and is built around the theme of excess and nostalgia is a sure fire good time. I’m most excited for this movie adaption of the famous book.

Star Trek: Into the Darkness

Four years ago, J.J. Abrams reinvented Star Trek with his innovative portrayal of familiar characters as strangers coming together for the first time in an alternate universe. It was the perfect mix of sci-fi, action, comedy, and Zoe Saldana. I remember sitting in that theater unsure of whether I would like it or not. I was never a huge fan of the shows or even space dramas for that matter. As the credits rolled though, I sat there fully satisfied and invested in the plot and characters. Abrams has taken his Lost awesomeness and is running with it for the planned Star Trek trilogy. They look like a great time and I’m definitely excited for the second installment in the series. I hope they don’t lose Spock.

Man of Steel

What can I say about this movie? Christopher Nolan’s production company Syncopy has taken over the Superman franchise. Now, I’m as big of a fan of Superman as the next guy. Don’t get me wrong; I watched all of Smallville and fell in love with Kara. I understand that this is about a superhero who feels like he is apart but must cope with his human surroundings. With that being said, I DON’T WANT BATMAN 4! I have high hopes for this new franchise. It’s led by a perfectly capable team and Brit Henry Cavil as Clark Kent can certainly give a great performance. He at least looks like Superman. This has the potential to be the next great movie franchise and I just hope they don’t blow it by incorporating too many elements of the latest Batman series. I want this to feel triumphant and American instead of portraying a modern version of the French Revolution.

Diana

The Real Princess was an inspiration to millions. It’s about time that someone made a movie about her. Naomi Watts looks charming as well.

Monsters University

Pixar is always a good bet at the movies. This looks amazingly well made and is a follow up to one of the best animated films in the last decade. Mike and Sulley attend college in a story reminiscent of 90′s sitcoms. This in depth look at the beginning of the characters’ friendship is sure to be heartfelt and entertaining.

Iron Man 3

Well, I like the first one and I like the second one and Avengers was pretty awesome, so yeah.

Scary Movie 5

The satirical writing of the first four has not declined in quality. Maybe the fifth attempt at the series will feel a bit forced, but I do not believe that is likely. I also like that it features Lindsey Lohan and Charlie Sheen who just look like disease.

Fast & Furious 6

I thoroughly recommend watching this film and any other racing film in the D-Box seats at the Palladium. It’s so much fun because the seats movement makes you feel like you’re in the car with them. This movie will be good though because all the rest have failed to disappoint me and I’m very interested in what has happened to Letty. I just hope that the film takes us to new exotic places and presents new story lines.

The Wolverine

The first X-Men movie gave birth to the new wave of superhero franchises. I like this series because it can focus on the larger amount of characters available. Now, let’s be honest, the Wolverine origin movie was okay. Let’s hope for a redemption and a great performance from everyone’s favorite Aussie, Hugh Jackman.

The Hangover: Part III

Whether you liked or hated the first two, you know every line in each because everyone kept repeating them. If you want to feel awkward again when you don’t get any of your friends’ Hangover references then be comfortable not watching it. I’ll be at the theatre laughing my face off. I hope they include Doug more and that Tijuana is displayed prominently in the film. Viva Mexico!

OZ: The Great and Powerful

James Franco and a lot of pretty colors in the land of Oz, what’s not to be excited about? I have high hopes for this movie and fully trust that Disney will make this as visually appealing as interesting to understand.

Percy Jackson: Sea of Monster

I’ll watch this on a Friday that has nothing else to offer, but I’ll still watch this.

Thor: The Dark World

Second Thor story? Why not? Let’s see if it can live up to the first one and the classic Shakespearean mood that was established by Kenneth Branagh. I just hope that they give Thor his amazing hat back. I missed it in The Avengers.

The Lone Ranger

Same director from the relevant Pirate trilogy, Johnny Depp in another weird role, and a brand new incarnation of your dad’s favorite western series, what’s not to like?

Now You See Me

I like magic movies and heist movies. This is like Harry Potter meets Ocean’s 11. It’s actors also give it the potential to dazzle the box office. I very much look forward to this.

Incredible Burt Wonderstone

Like I said, I love magic movies. I also have a strange obsession with movies set in Las Vegas. This is set to be a really enjoyable movie that I should look forward to but never actually watch again. The actors parody several Vegas magic icons and the plot revolves around the actual real world hotels. I really wish I would have been in Vegas when they filmed the glass box scene.

Anchorman: The Legend Continues

The teaser trailer for this actually made me laugh out loud and choke on my popcorn. It seems like it’s only logical that the film will do this as well. It is, after all, a sequel to one of the best comedies of the last decade

Kick-Ass 2

I’m not going to lie to you. I thought the first one was okay. But really a lot of people liked it so why not watch the second one. It’s a clever, modern, take on the superhero archetype.

Catching Fire

This is the next big teen franchise. I recommend you get into it now so you don’t feel left out in the near future. It also features the most talented young actress fresh off an Oscar win!

GI Joe: Retaliation

I just miss Dennis Quaid but it’s okay. I’ll still pay money for this.

Evil Dead

A relevant scary movie that looks like it’s not total trash? I’ll take it!

Emperor

I go to TMI and I have had Douglas MacArthur shoved down my throat for four years. I hope they talk about his high school in the movie. I’ll be an extra.

1. Prepare for the end of the world.
2. Create a study playlist.
3. Think about studying for hours.
4. Track Santa.
5. Facebook teacher in hopes of finding answers.
6. The Hobbit
7. Start crying.
8. Google the definition of perendinate.
9. Shop for Christmas presents.
10. Write a Christmas musical starring your dog.
11. Make a list of safety schools.
12. Pick up a MacDonald’s job application.
13. Color coordinate your notecards.
14. Go to Denny’s.
15. Make a to-do list of stuff you’ve already done, then cross them off.

article by Isa Magraner

Over a year ago, the TMI community was introduced to an idea which would become Hand In Hand, A Night on the Runway. Current senior Lauren Chu dreamed of organizing a fashion show to raise money for Morgan’s Wonderland, a unique park accessible for those with disabilities and fun for all. Although Lauren formed the idea in 2009, it was not until 2011 that she presented her plan to the student body. TMI involvement would be crucial because volunteers were needed to run and participate in the show. Each TMI “model” was buddied up with an individual with disabilities to walk down the runway together, becoming friends along the process. During the span of 10 months, Lauren Chu, with the indispensable assistance from her friends, family, and the TMI society, ambitiously worked on everything from gaining sponsorships to choosing outfits provided by Macy’s. The result of the hard work was a night full of joy and excitement as everyone witnessed his or her efforts transformed into a brilliant show. The event affected everyone who was involved from the volunteers to the grateful recipients from Morgan’s Wonderland whom the show benefited. This year, Hand In Hand is an Interact sponsored event that not only promotes Morgan’s Wonderland but their recently launched school, Monarch Academy, as well. New leaders from TMI, Elise Notzon and myself, and the Monarch Academy have accepted the responsibility of organizing the fundraiser with Lauren’s blessing, as she steps back and watches the evolution of the show into an annual event more substantial and influential than anyone could have imagined.

One of the most unique opportunities is the chance to be a model for the show. This is not a one-day commitment, but a way to form friendships with one’s buddy over a number of sponsored events prior to the actual show. This year, there are twenty models from TMI who have all been matched with people from either Monarch Academy or RMI, a nonprofit organization that helps those with disabilities live and work. The first buddy day was a successful and fun way to kick off the journey leading up to the finale. The buddies were able to spend time bonding as they experience all of what Morgan’s Wonderland had to offer. The time spent there will be the foundation of the buddies’ relationship as they build on it with future events like the Christmas Dance hosted by Monarch Academy and the reverse buddy day where their students will come to have lunch with their TMI friends and be a part of the community. They will also get to see one another and bond as they try on their outfits for the show and learn how to strut down the runway. It is heartwarming to see everyone get rid of any hesitations or timidity and just have fun interacting as they strike a pose; in last year’s show it was not unusual for buddies to throw in even a few dance moves. Of course everyone admires the gorgeous clothes donated by Macy’s, but it is truly about those whom the show is benefiting.

Everyone involved with the show, from the audience to the volunteers, obtain new feelings and experiences that are hard to forget. No matter if they dedicate whole days of work to prepare for the fundraiser or just a few hours, they will acquire something undeniable. It is often said that when doing charity work, the giver gains more than the receiver and that is perfectly applicable in this situation. Granted, those at Morgan’s Wonderland and Monarch Academy are plenty appreciative for all of the volunteers’ efforts, but it is those same volunteers who are driven by the desire to help others, not for an award or public recognition, but for the personal reward that comes as an effect of their actions. So I implore you to get involved with Hand In Hand, A Night on the Runway. There is so much work to be done that no effort is too small. If you are interested, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Carter, Elise Notzon, or myself. There are countless ways to contribute. Believe it when I say that your contribution will be recognized and appreciated!

 article by Laszlo Ebergenyi

The name is Bond, James Bond. We all know the character who has turned out to be the most famous spy working for the British Secret Service or better known as MI6, and this November, Skyfall was released. This is the 23rd Bond movie and the third starring Daniel Craig. This year the James Bond films also celebrate the 50 Year Anniversary since the first James Bond movie came out. The story of this character began with Ian Fleming who created James Bond in 1953 for his novels. Fleming was looking for a perfect and very masculine name for his character, and he took it from the name of an American ornithologist whom he knew because he was a birdwatcher as well, and thought the name had the perfect fit for what he was looking for. The character was introduced to the world in Fleming’s famous novel, and then Eon Productions started the film franchise for James Bond in 1962 with the first movie, Dr. No, starring Sean Connery. These days the character is known for his missions that he always does, the cars, the guns and the gadgets that he always get from the character Q, his class and British sense of humor, and the ladies. A James Bond movie would not be the same without any of these things; even the music is important because there is always the signature music for the movie. In the past six years we’ve had the British actor Daniel Craig playing the role of the agent, and he has done a great job. Before his first movie, Casino Royale, the critics, media, and the public were afraid that he was not going to fit what Ian Fleming had portrayed as the character of James Bond, but after the movie many of the people’s opinions were changed. On the website Rotten Tomatoes, the movie got a positive response of 95% with 220 reviews on the critic’s page. Some of the reviews stated: “The Daily Telegraph compared the quality of Craig’s characterization of Bond to Sean Connery’s and praised the script as smartly written, noting how the film departed from the series’ conventions. The Times compared Craig’s portrayal of the character to that of Timothy Dalton, and praised the action as edgy.” After this movie with great reviews and a spectacular performance by Craig the expectations went up for the next movie in the sequel, but when it came out the criticism that the movie got was not as positive as the ones for Casino Royale. Quantum of Solace is not thought to be a bad movie, but it was a peculiarly different movie from the classics. It did not get the general strong positive reviews because the critics liked Casino Royale more, but the critics still praised Craig’s performance as Bond, and they thought that the movie was still something that they could enjoy as an addition to the series. Two years after Quantum of Solace came out, this November saw the James Bond movie Skyfall. It was a movie that gave everybody the taste of the classic Bond with Daniel Craig again.

The movie kept the people wanting to know what was going to happen. Even though some things such as the use of many gadgets did not have a strong presence in this movie, it still portrayed the classic actions of Bond with his way of doing things and reacting to situations. Particularly, the way that they made the ending and the transition means there’s more of Bond to come. The film got really positive reviews and opinions with a 92% of approval in Rotten Tomatoes with 273 reviews. Some of the critics opinions were: “The Daily Telegraph’s film reviewer, Robbie Collin, considered Skyfall to be ‘often dazzling, always audacious’, and observed that as well as excellent action sequences, the film was also full of ‘humor and warmth.’ Collin predicted that the film ‘will be a stratospheric hit.’  Reviewing for The Times, Kate Muir called Skyfall, ‘a great British bulldog of a movie … a triumphant return to classic Bond.’ ” The movies always have the character of Bond being serious about what he does, and he always has a bit of British ironic and sarcastic humor. Some viewers and critics think that the movies may need more humorous moments apart from the non-stopping action that occurs, but they are still considered good movies and are now classics after 50 years. Daniel Craig wanted this movie to be his last one, but he ended up signing for some more movies, so that means that we will see him characterizing the famous James Bond and having to “resurrect” as his hobby for more years to come.

article by Javi Fuentes

While the civilians spent an entire day helping beautify the campus, the Corps had the opportunity to spend the day at Camp Bullis. Officially known as “Field Training Day,” the annual daylong trip always starts with a 7:30 morning formation, and from there, the real adventure begins. After accounting for each cadet, the companies loaded up into buses, departed from TMI, and traveled down to Camp Bullis where several soldiers from different branches of the military awaited. Each year, the Corps is allowed to participate in three different stations over the course of the entire day. The stations include First Aid Training, the Leadership Reaction Course (LRC), and the all time favorite, Rappelling. Base personnel each take one company and teach them the basic knowledge of their station for the allotted time while giving them the chance to work together in set up scenarios. Battalion Commander Daniel Gonzalez explained: “Camp Bullis develops teamwork and cohesiveness for members of the Corps in fun and exciting ways which we cannot experience at school.” This certainly rang true as each cadet eagerly learned new leadership, teamwork, and medical skills at each rotation.

As the day started off, Alpha Company was the first to take on the rappelling course. Both returning and new cadets listened to the instructions before attempting to jump down the forty-foot giant wall. Katie Hazzard, Alpha’s Company Commander, said, “At the rappel tower our leadership really stepped up and encouraged the newer cadets. They led by example and motivated each other.” While facing the giant monolith structure can be daunting at first, each cadet bravely ascended the tower and with the guidance of the course masters stationed on and below the wall, leaned back in an “L” position before jumping three times to the ground. After the adrenaline rush passed, all cadets cheered and supported each person to go rappel off the tower until the last person finished. Being on the Staff, I was not assigned to be with a specific company and therefore had the ability to move freely between courses to get a glimpse of everything going on. Seeing the cadets facing and overcoming their fear of heights at the rappel tower is always a favorite of mine because the motivation and courage developed is something that will stay with a cadet forever.

When the rotations changed, I went over to the LRC where Bravo Company was being split into smaller teams and divided amongst the various scenarios set up.  As the timer started, each team quickly developed a plan of action for completing their task and then set out to transport all members through the obstacle before the time ended. Walking around each obstacle, it was exciting to see people working together under pressure. At the LRC, it is especially noticeable to see leadership and teamwork being developed simultaneously as cadets, who normally don’t hang around with each other during the school day, work together as a team trying to finish the task assigned. Drew Fox, Bravo’s Company Commander, explained that throughout the LRC he saw “middle school cadets taking charge and leading the upper school cadets, making suggestions and above all, communicating effectively!” This, along with the two other courses of Camp Bullis, makes the entire day very enjoyable for everyone from the senior leadership to the newest middle school cadets.

As lunch rolled around, the companies came in one by one to the simple meal consisting of a sandwich, apple, chips, water, and of course, the famous TMI cookies. As everyone filed through the line and started to eat, the fast paced atmosphere slowed to a halt as people starting relaxing with new friends and relating the experiences and lessons gained so far. After a brief lunch, the companies moved out to their final stations for the day. This time I had the chance to join in with Charlie Company while they received first aid training. Taught by two soldiers, the cadets learned the basics of applying and maintaining a wound. While there were no actual wounds to train with (thankfully!), the cadets split up into smaller groups and applied bandages to mock wounds. Garrett Notzon, Charlie Company Commander, explained, “Thanks to the First Aid Training session at Camp Bullis, my cadets are now even more capable of handling stressful injuries that could occur anywhere from working out during our PT sessions to a road trip with the family. It is cool seeing this reestablished air of confidence exhibited by my cadets when someone merely rolls an ankle or scrapes a knee.” While the other two courses involved physical movement, this course simply involved the curiosity to learn a potentially lifesaving technique.

As the day ended, each company thanked the soldiers who helped train the cadets throughout the day before heading back to TMI where civilians were wrapping up Green Day. Although the Corps of Cadets gets to experience the thrill of Camp Bullis only once a year, it is surely a memorable trip each time. Bittersweet for seniors and exciting for middle schoolers, Camp Bullis day has something to offer for everyone.

Imagine the NFL playoffs without the Saints or with out the mighty Steelers.  Well this year in the NFL, anything is possible and many teams are clawing their way to control their own destiny. This year’s NFL season has been one of great excitement and the end of the season should not disappoint us, as the playoff race is getting closer to the final twelve teams being put into place.  With just a couple games left in the season the window is getting smaller and smaller every week.  Only two teams in the league, the Texans and the Falcons have complete control in their divisions, both teams stand with a 10-1 record and have a commanding lead and are definitely in the playoffs.  Apart from them though, there is much debate about which other teams will make it, who will be what seed, who will be in and who will be out.

Some teams who were great last season may not even have a chance this season, which is very surprising considering some of the talent.  Teams like the Dallas Cowboys and the New Orleans Saints are just one loss away from being completely out of the picture.  Things are heating up in the NFL and the last three weeks will be something to watch and see who comes out on top.  The NFL is so unpredictable every year and every team has the capability of beating any opponent that they face.  Just like last year when the Giants barely made the playoffs and got hot at the right moment and ended up winning it all, anything can happen with the final ten teams, but based on the records and how teams are playing it is possible to predict who will be in and who will be out.  The Denver Broncos with their new star, Peyton Manning, are on a roll with a six game win streak they look very hard to beat.  Not only are the Broncos playing well, but the New England Patriots are on a five game win streak and are tied with Denver for the three seed just behind the Ravens.

Its easy to predict the teams with winning records, but teams like the Steelers and the Seahawks are just too close to call; both teams stand in the six seeds for their playoff berth.  Just one loss and another team winning could take them out of their spot as the six seed and potentially not make the playoffs.  The Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants are not safe either.  Even though the Giants had a commanding win over the Packers, they still face tough opponents in games still to be played.  There are multiple scenarios that can happen in both the NFC and the AFC that can lead to many different teams being put into those final two spots in the playoffs.  If the playoffs were to start today, we would see some very fun games to watch.  The Patriots would have the Steelers, and the Colts would play the Broncos with both the Texans and the Ravens having first round byes and that is only in the AFC.  In the NFC we would have the Falcons and the 49ers on a bye, with four teams battling in the first two playoff games.  The Seahawks would face the Bears and the super bowl winner Giants and Packers would play in the first round.  If these predictions stay the same, it will set up for some great playoff games, but as years past have taught us, that is just not the case in the NFL.

As you can see it is pretty confusing as to what twelve teams will be left once all the dust is settled, but that is what makes the NFL so fun to watch; you never know what will happen at any given moment.  Predicting the playoffs is easy, but the predictions change from one week to the next. It will be fun to see who comes out on top – not only the remaining twelve, but also the one above all the rest, the Super Bowl champion.  We will just have to wait and see what will play out for the playoffs this year.

With the holidays just around the corner, the joys of Christmas cheer and sweet smelling aromas have begun to fill the atmosphere. Although Christmas is known for the warm feelings and sharing hearts it brings, it may not be all fuzzy feelings after all.  Statistics show that suicide rates go up during this so called happiest time of the year.

The weight of gifts and the spending of money carry a heavy toll on people as it sparks up old emotional conflicts, loneliness and the worry of debt. In other words: holiday depression. People begin to eat more, drink more, and more importantly spend more. Everyone is stressed, tired, and just trying to get that perfect gift for his or her loved ones without even thinking to check the price tag; so as a consequence money becomes an issue when the holiday season begins to fade away.

For children, Christmas is the time when Santa comes to town and it is time to send away those Christmas lists and cross your fingers that you meet Santa’s standard of “nice”, but getting older even as a teenager still under your parents’ house, Christmas has begun to become less about whether you were naughty or nice and more about whether you have enough money in your pocket. For children, Christmas was also a time of family and more the getting of presents rather than the giving. For adults, on the other hand, Christmas becomes more giving than getting and is even sometimes spent alone. When all family has passed away, this time of year can also become a sad reminder of what once was.

Dedicating this article to my best friend who just recently passed and speaking from experience, Christmas is not so much cookies and joy, but rather tears and faded memories this year for many. The loss of a loved one is hard in itself, but during the holidays it is intensified as old memories and gathering of family are a sad reminder of what is not, and what could have been. It is easy to send a check to some organization giving gifts to families who are not as privileged as we are, but it is not so easy to go and spend some of your time with families or people who have lost loved ones. Sometimes all they need is a warm hug to let them know they are not alone, or just someone to listen to them.

Death seems like something in a movie until you are face to face with it. I encourage you to get out of your comfort zone, and don’t just give finely wrapped packages and assorted chocolates, but give someone your time and love. Remember this holiday season as a time to feel blessed and appreciative of the loved ones you have around you, and to bring comfort to those around who are not as fortunate. Give a gift that matters this year.

It’s that time of year again. Carolers are singing, cookies are baking, and ornaments are hanging; the Christmas season has arrived, and with it, the impossible challenge of buying the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Does Mom really want another homemade pot holder? Will Dad be happy with those socks? Does your sister still want that full size poster of Edward Cullen? Chances are, probably not. Christmas shopping can be stressful; no one can argue with that. Everyone wants to find that perfect gift – the one your loved one will use for years. Well, have no fear! Here are a couple tips and tricks to keep in mind when searching for that perfect gift.

1)  Be Original- Creativity can go a long way. Think about the person’s favorite things and try to get them something that relates to it. Not only will it show that you took enough time to think of him or her, it will show that you put in that extra special effort of getting something he or she actually likes.

2)  Don’t Forget Who You Are Buying For- Your brother might love a new video game, but grandma, not so much. A gift means so much more when the recipients know you put in the time to think of them specifically. While buying iTunes gift cards in bulk may quickly finish your shopping list, I can promise you: those 15 free songs will not mean as much to grandma as they do to your siblings.

3)  Stay Personal- Think of memories you have, trips you’ve taken, or inside jokes you have with this person. Make a book of pictures. Buy a post card from the trip. Think of something relating to your relationship. It might be weird to anyone else, but it could mean the world to the person receiving the gift. If the gift is meaningful, price does not matter. Make the gift meaningful, and it will be worth much more than the money you may spend on it.

4)  Don’t Go Overboard- Christmas presents are meant to be a way to show your love and appreciation, not a fast track to bankruptcy. Everyone appreciates a nice gift, but no family member wants to spot you money when you spend all of yours shopping till you drop. Write a meaningful letter. Telling someone how much you mean transcends material gifts any day; however, if you are still determined to give a material possession, make it. In the days of Pinterest, even the worst artist can find something to make. Homemade gifts are usually cheap and sentimental (win, win.)

5)  Last Resorts- It’s 8 pm on Christmas Eve, you have five people left on your list, and the mall closed two hours ago; what do you do? Buy the gift card. Unless the person specifically asked for it, save this as a last resort. Gift cards not only blatantly proclaim how much you spent on the gift, but they are about as impersonal as it gets; however, if you must get the gift card, try to make it as personal as possible. Buy it from stores where they actually shop. Chances are, Mom wants $25 to Bass Pro Shops as much as Dad wants credit at Sephora. If the person is hard to buy for, gifts cards can be a good way to insure they get what they want, but whatever you do, do not use the gift card as an easy way out of Christmas shopping.

Hopefully you can take a couple of these tips to heart, and with any luck, find that perfect gift for your loved ones. The holidays can be stressful. Get your shopping done early, so you can sit back and relax, confident that you found the perfect gifts already. So, no, maybe your gifts in the past have not been the greatest, but keep these tips in mind, and you might just find yourself giving gift that make someone’s holiday.