Urban Echoes: Exploring A Boy’s Dream
May01

Urban Echoes: Exploring A Boy’s Dream

By Alex Silverman A Boy’s Dream, directed, written, and produced by Zhe Zhang, depicts a nine-year-old boy leaving his mountain pastures for the big city.  Set in 2004, young Yeerxiati grows up herding sheep with his grandparents in Northern Xinjiang. When his father returns to take him to the city for school, Yeerxiati faces the challenge of adapting to urban life. Despite familiar themes of fitting in and making friends, the...

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Commitment to Music in Times of Uncertainty: Benjamin Hochman & Keiko Sekino Piano Studio Recital
May01

Commitment to Music in Times of Uncertainty: Benjamin Hochman & Keiko Sekino Piano Studio Recital

By Rhea Mursalin Benjamin Hochman and Keiko Sekino’s virtual piano recital is a captivating testament to the resilience and talent of young musicians amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. These performers, with one musician based in China and the other musician based in Russia, deliver a mesmerizing performance that showcases not only their incredible talent but also their deep commitment to their craft. The carefully...

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Let the Sun In: Evaluating Solar Windows
May01

Let the Sun In: Evaluating Solar Windows

By Jack DeWitt In the short film, What Could Be Hotter Than Solar Windows? by Kennedy Mallory, viewers learn about the differences between solar and regular windows, and how solar windows could address the renewable energy crisis.  Mallory discusses their installation on skyscrapers and in cities, highlighting companies involved in the technology. Pros and cons are presented, with pros outweighing cons. Rating: 3.75/5. The topic...

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A Review of The Healing Note by Dre Whitney
May01

A Review of The Healing Note by Dre Whitney

By Jack DeWitt In The Healing Note by Dre Whitney, an up-and-coming pianist Thomas, confronts a health challenge.  With support from his mother and medication, his life improves. Meeting and falling in love with Amelia boosts his confidence and acceptance. Rating: 4.5/5. Solid storyline with a satisfying ending. Jack Dewitt graduated from Adrian College (Adrian, Michigan) with dual bachelor’s degrees in Communication Arts and...

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Sole Reflections: A Review of Fitting In by Mark Leschinsky
May01

Sole Reflections: A Review of Fitting In by Mark Leschinsky

By Jack DeWitt In the short film Fitting In by Mark Leschinsky, the narrator draws a comparison between unique shoes and personalities. A gold high-heeled shoe symbolizes the desire to “fit in,” but the narrator advocates for embracing uniqueness. Film Rating: 3/5. The message is clear but the symbolism feels excessive. Jack Dewitt graduated from Adrian College (Adrian, Michigan) with dual bachelor’s degrees in...

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