“Into Darkness” tells the further adventures of the Enterprise crew in the alternate Trek universe, as Captain James T. Kirk, played by a much improved from last time Chris Pine, is put on a mission by Admiral Marcus to hunt down the terrorist John Harrison, played by Benedict Cumberpatch, who has escaped to the Klingon home world Kronos (Trekkie Note: the proper spelling is Qo’noS, something that this film does not recognize. Sorry, but there are  a few things that Romulans with a grudge against Leonard Nimoy changing the timeline can’t  get away with altering). Though it soon becomes apparent that there is more to John Harrison than is originally expected, as his true identity as a familiar Trek figure is revealed.

The story is rather well written for the first few acts. There is a feeling of true drama to the terrorist acts that Harrison initiates, the ways that he gains spite from Kirk, and how the movie plays him up as a menacing force, and showing how Star Fleet, the Enterprise crew, and occasionally how all future civilization, reacts to such a force. The film nearly borders on intelligent, but all that is unfortunately lost when the movie decides to explode into a fit of blatant fan service and over the top action, which while still entertaining; it’s kind of more hilarious than engaging, and makes the movie lose all the potential that it had to be one of Trek’s greatest adventures. Like I stated earlier, the retreading of Star Trek’s most well-known story makes this film seem lazy, and if it were any less entertaining, it almost certainly would have broken the film.

However, the movie maintains excellent characterizations throughout the film, doing a great job of showing Kirk as a maturing officer, presenting the dual natures of Spock, and giving traditionally bland background characters like Chekov, Sulu, and Scotty a lot to do throughout the film. Characters like Uhura and Kirk who came off as obnoxious and annoying in the previous Trek film have become far more grounded and feel like actual characters rather than arrogant mouths. This characterization is heightened even further with very clever and well written dialogue.

Of course, the characters are only presented so well because of fantastic performances from the entirety of the cast. Chris Pine actually feels like he’s playing Captain Kirk in this movie and not just some arrogant dolt in a Starfleet uniform like last time, Zachary Quinto gives another excellent performance as the logical and stoic Half Vulcan Spock, keeping in the spirit of the great Leonard Nimoy while still bringing a unique youth and intensity to the role. Simon Pegg is hilarious as the chief engineer Scotty, Anton Yelchin is equally funny as Chekov, John Cho is…..present as Sulu (Trekkie Note: Admittedly,  Cho’s Sulu does get a good moment , but it’s mostly a joke at the expense of the original Sulu actor George Takei and his attempts to get a spin off about his character, so it comes off as a tad cruel in that context).  And Zoe Saldana gives a brilliant performance as Uhura, giving her emotion and personality that the original Uhura tended to lack. But the highlight of the film is Benedict Cumberpatch as the mystery villain. Though not quite as good as the previous actor to hold this role, Cumberpatch is menacing and powerful, giving more stage presence than any other actor on the set. He’s charismatic, intimidating, and looks completely natural doing everything he has to do on set. He’s even able to make some dumb cliché’s, like the obligatory villain gets captured moment, the film decides to use look awesome, and completely owns the role (Trekkie Note: Even if he’s not the right nationality to play the role….ugh).

While Into Darkness is mixed in the more substantial areas of the film, it is a gem of technical expertise. The choreography for the action scenes is absolutely perfect, being intense and attention grabbing, even if they tend to cross the line of subtlety. The special effects used to bring the actions to life look extraordinary, and again, I thank whoever on the production staff realized that CG and practical effects can work together to make something that looks absolutely fantastic. The score by Michael Giacchino is very well composed, and sets the atmosphere of the film perfectly (Trekkie Note: But I will be honest, it was weird seeing the sweeping beauty shots of the Enterprise and not hearing Jerry Goldsmith’s Star Trek movie theme).

The artist in me wants to berate this movie to its core, calling it shallow, hollow, and contemptible. And in many ways, its lack of originality and respect for what a series stands for makes it that way. But as a critic, I cannot help but adore this movie. It has all the engaging characterization and fun adventures that were featured in the original series, and in many ways, this is the closest thing to a true and good Trek film we’ve gotten in years. So I suppose that this can sate the fandom until Paramount gets around to finally bringing  Star Trek back to the small screen where it thrives.  Hopefully by 2016, the 50^th anniversary of the series, fans will get a film as exciting and entertaining as this one that can still push into the original and bold new places that the original shows and films so often tried to venture to.

Final Rank: A-

+Thoroughly entertaining with great characters, performances, action, and well written first two acts

-third act is almost nothing but ham fisted retreading of a better and smarter previous Trek adventure

Perhaps what shocks me most about my thoughts on Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of the F.Scott Fitzgerald classic is not that I don’t like it (spoiler alert: I don’t like it), but the exact reason that I don’t like it. Luhrmann’s work is infamously style over substance, and I had believed the main detriment to this film would be that every scene would be so “ham fisted and over the top” that it would be near impossible to take seriously. But somehow, that was not the case. The biggest detriment to The Great Gatsby is the fact that throughout the film I found myself so bored with the moments that the audience was supposed to take seriously that the “ham fisted and over the top” moments seemed like heavenly relief.

The Great Gatsby is the story of Nick Carraway, played by Toby MacGuire, as he remembers his time in New York city,  and his rememberance of the eccentric millionaire Jay Gatsby, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Most of the film follows Gatsby’s attempts to win back his lost love, Daisy, played by Carey Mulligan.  The film follows the story originally put in the novel fairly well, but takes a rather drastic deviation in the presentation of the story, Nick’s memories of the event being reminisced in a psychiatric ward, and taking many cuts to the ward in order to make the film seem like it is still telling Nick’s story. This makes the structure of Gatsby far too awkward, and distracts the viewer from the far more interesting and important story of Gatsby.

However, the biggest detriment to the story comes from the characters involved. Why does a story that works so well in the novel fall flat on its face in this film? Well, what happens is that Luhrmann never takes time to get the viewer engaged in these characters who we are trying to experience the story through. Very little personality is sent by from Gatsby and Nick and most of the other lead characters, and those that get a definite personality are rather minor in comparison to the leads. Without reason to care about the characters, the almost entirely dialogue based plot is near impossible to be interested by, and the story fails to engage the audience on nearly any scale.

Actors seem to be giving fathoms of effort throughout the picture, but with such weak material being handed to them by the director, none of them are truly able to shine. Though Leonardo DiCaprio is entertaining as Gatsby, all that entertainment comes from  a very campy and silly point of view, as watching DiCaprio speak with the accent of a 1920’s New Yorker is funny on levels that I doubt anyone involved with the film ever began to conceive. Toby MacGuire suffers the most from the lack of characterization: Nick is already a rather bland character in Fitzgerald’s novel, but here he feels next to worthless, and his interceding Psyche Ward do nothing but paint him as an extremely pathetic and unlikeable wuss. None of the supporting actors do anything particularly memorable, but I cannot put them at fault for that, as the director gave them nothing particularly memorable to do.

In terms of simple aesthetics, this film becomes a mixed bag. Visually, the movie is lavish and breathtaking. The visuals come with a bit of tounge in cheek over the top tone that gives them a strong personality (one that its characters seem to lack) and make the movie seem daring and adventurous without actually being either of those. This especially shines in the party scenes, where so many things are occurring at once that it’s rather hard not to get swept up in them. However, that leads us to one of the weaker aspects of the film, that being the music. Why does it seem like who finds it properly jarring that rap music is playing in the background of a movie that’s story takes place in the 1920’s? I’m sorry, but it seems to be rather odd that in the attempts to capture the spirit of a party in the roaring 20’s, we get what may be one of the biggest and most insulting sell outs of a classic book since Mike Myers was thrown in a Dr. Suess movie. Yes, I get it, it’s trying to set the party tone, but are you seriously trying to tell me that a good jazz soundtrack can’t do that? It seems right that a movie that takes place in the 1920’s should be playing what music was popular in the 1920s, not music from a genre that didn’t even exist for 60 years after the original publication of the story this film is based off of. It comes off as silly and extremely out of place.

I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t enjoy watching The Great Gatsby. It’s was just far too silly not to find somewhat enjoyable. However, the over the top moments appeal are matched the utter dullness of the dramatic scenes, so I cannot say that the entire film is a riot of humor, only set fractions. I suppose those with the ability to turn their brain off at the movies will be able to thoroughly enjoy, but otherwise,  I cannot recommend The Great Gatsby. It is film that will likely be forgotten quickly, and will not break any records or win any rewards. In other words: Meh.

Final Rank: D+

+Over the top moments are enjoyable, visually intoxicating

-Weak characterization, strange structure, that inexplicable soundtrack

(Mrs. Curcio- Feel free to make any edits neccesary)

 (scroll down)

Girls on prom court (left to right) :

Rachael Kopenick, Mandy Stajor, Erica Saier, Elda Caka, and Delanie Duffy

Guys on prom court (left to right): Connor Pierce, Danny Newton, Brendan Fitzpatrick, Chuckie Voorhees, and Andrew Wolanin

 (top row, left to right) Andrew Wolanin, Danny Newton, Brendan Fitzpatrick, Chuckie Voorhees, Connor Pierce, (bottom row) Mandy Stajor, Rachael Kopenick, Elda Caka, Erica Saier, and Dylanie Duffy

 (same order as above)

Iron Man 3 begins the next wave of these films, and some have been rather speculative towards the idea of whether the next group of movies building up to the Avengers 2 can match the brilliance of the previous. And this critic is glad to say that not only does Iron Man 3 leave a promising feeling for this next wave to match the quality of the previous, it leaves the excitement that this generation will by and large surpass it.

Iron Man 3 takes place immediately after the events of the Avengers. Tony Stark, eccentric billionaire and alter ego of the Iron Man, has been suffering from anxiety since his near death experience when fighting the Chitauri at the end of The Avengers, and hasn’t been able to sleep, doing nothing but tinkering with his suits as his relationship with his friend James Rhodes, the bearer of the Americanized War Machine suit now donned Iron Patriot, and his girlfriend Pepper Potts fall apart. As this occurs, a terrorist known as the Mandarin begins to cause chaos across the world with America as his primary target, using people as makeshift bombs with a strange drug called Extremis. When the Mandarin attacks Tony’s home, Tony crash lands in Tennessee, and his suit is broken, so he must find a way to stop the Mandarin with limited access to his trademark armor.

Despite restricting Tony from the suit that made him famous, this story is very well crafted. By bringing the focus on to Tony Stark rather than Iron Man, the story becomes deeply personal, watching as Stark struggles throughout the movie to make everything right, while dealing with his inadequacy of mere humanity having facing off with Nordic Gods and super soldiers in the Avengers, and proving that that the man makes the man, and not the suit he wears. This is helped by several twists and turns that give the story a very epic and wide scope. The story is thematically brilliant, and is by far the strongest of all the Marvel films.

The story is carried by great characters, ranging from returning cast from the previous Iron Man films, and new additions. Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark is as charming a jerk as ever, but manages to show more humanity than in any of his previous iterations. Don Cheadle finally fits the role perfectly as James Rhodes both in and out of the War Machine suit, something that troubled him in Iron Man 2 and Gwyneth Paltrow gives a performance as Pepper Potts, getting possibly some of the best moments in the entire movie. Ben Kingsley’s performance as the menacing Mandarin is extremely memorable, as is Guy Pearce as the very jerkish and egotistical Aldrich Killian. However, I can not dwell for too long on the villains of the film, as to do that would require me to give away details of the film that no decent critic would dispose. Simply put, these characters help to give support and life to what is a great cinematic story.

In the realm of technical ascpects, Iron Man 3 doesn’t transcend the near flawless cinematography of the Avengers, but it succeeds for the film that it is. The action scenes, both involving and not involving the suit, are intense, wild, and exciting. The special effects are very well done, every CG iron suit looking very unique and stylized, and  many of the effects involving Extremis look horrifying and mystifying, as must have been the intention. Brian Tyler’s soundtrack is magnificent here, setting the atmosphere perfectly. And I must thank everyone involved with this film for toning down the rock anthems that were all over the previous Iron Man movies. I love AC/DC, but two movies of hearing songs from their Back in Black album gets old after a while.

Iron Man 3 does have its share of flaws. It is very weirdly paced near the beginning, dumping the information of the story quickly and very book like, trying to explain the events without letting the audience really experience it. However, the film quickly grows out of this as the story picks up, and the viewer is allowed to experience the film naturally. The script suffers from the occasional plot hole, but it never brings the film down in any fashion, and they can be easily overlooked. There is a possibility that two aspects of the movie will hamper your enjoyment: 1. Tony Stark is only in the suit for about a total third of the film and 2. There is a twist that you will either adore or abhor. However, both of these aspects to this critic were very good points to the movie, the lack of the suit making the story more human, and the twist making the film much more interesting.

In conclusion, Iron Man 3 is a satisfying beginning to the next wave of Marvel films. Though it is flawed in some places, it is a strong story and character piece, with great performances throughout. Iron Man 3 is highly recommended, and I cannot wait to see Tony Stark back in action for the next Avengers.

Final Grade: A+

+Strong story, great characters, and a fun action romp

-Weird first act, some plotholes

        The Vang family may have started with small with a restaurant in Dearborn, but now their food is accessible anywhere. With their newly successful frozen food company, Thai Feast is sweeping the nation.

        The frozen food idea was talked about amongst the family, but it remained just an idea for a while; until the Vang family decided to make it a reality.

         While Christine plays a small role in her family’s business, the majority of the work falls on her sister, Tower alumni ’02, Caroline Vang-Polly, and her brother, Tower alumni ‘08 and former soccer coach, Steven Vang.

          ”Our mom, Genevieve, and I had the idea of selling one of our restaurant items for a few years. After high school, I was helping out at our restaurant called Bangkok 96 in Dearborn. I took orders and cashed customers out. It wasn’t until I left the other jobs I was working that I realized bigger opportunities were in front of me. Knowing that my mom needed my help, I finally made up my mind to dedicate my time and effort with this frozen project,“ Caroline Vang-Polly, Tower alumni, said. 

             With products inspired from their restaurant menu, the food was sure to be a hit…and very authentic. Their food options include Pad Woon Sen, Pad Thai, and Pad Se’ew. The products started to gain some positive attention, and stores all over the U.S. are selling Thai Feast.

          “A&P/Pathmark stores on the East Coast were the first chains to take us in. Next, Whole Foods in Northern California signed us up. After that, we concentrated on Metro Detroit stores. We started selling inside our restaurant, and then Hiller’s Market and Westborn-Dearborn took our products. Now, Joe’s Produce, Market Fresh, and Market Square too!” Caroline adds.

        Though the Vangs were already in the food business, the production and manufacturing of a frozen food product was a completely different scenario from cooking in a kitchen.

       “A production facility helps manufacture for us. The hardest part of starting out was taking the restaurant food and converting it to commercial formulas,” Caroline said.

       While the process is very complex and there’s so much to do to keep up with the business, it’s not too bad since everyone in the family contributes to the company. Christine plays a smaller role in the business; she mostly helps out at the restaurant and does demos for Thai Feast over the weekends.

       “Everyone in the family plays an important role. The ideas are always flowing! Everyone helps out with demos at the Michigan stores. This is the only good way to let shoppers taste our products,” Caroline comments.

       It takes a while for a business to become successful, especially with all of the expenses to get it up and running. Without their restaurant, Bangkok 96, the Vang family may not have been involved in the frozen food business.

       “The restaurant makes it possible to help pay for Thai Feast production and marketing. It’s been almost 2 years and we expect to see profit this year,” Caroline said.

       The Thai Feast frozen food line continues to grow and spread their authentic Thai cuisine all over the nation.

       “We want to expand into more restaurants. Thai Feast will come out with more frozen products. The success of Bangkok 96 and Thai Feast will be able to contribute back to the community!” Caroline added.

         The amount of hard work that goes into such businesses can greatly impact the lives of those involved. Christine Vang says that the family business, however, has positively affected her life.

         “It has taught me to never give up on things you dream of doing and it has also made me prepared for the future ahead of me in the business world of competition,” Christine said.

          While the family business has been a success and a huge part of her family’s lives, Christine decides to travel her own path.

        “I plan to take some parts in the family business, but again I know I would like to take a different route than my older siblings and parents. My family has become dream catchers and I would love to continue catching dreams by learning from the business.”

If you still need a packet see Sarah Rumpz, Emily Johnson, or Mrs. Curcio

Thank you!

This year, seniors were hit hard with the typical case of ‘I Don’t Care’ and it quickly became a viral plague. All over twitter, instagram, and other social networking sites, seniors are proudly showing off their days of absence.  I would ask more seniors how they feel about this viral plague, but half of them are gone and are no where to be found! As of Monday, April 15th, there’s 32 days left for seniors and 42 for everyone else but the end of those few weeks can’t come faster. Each day is dragging on but the time is going by quickly. Soon enough we’ll be signing yearbooks and getting out of Tower for the summer.

Elizabeth Kaiser, 15, says, “Is there such a thing as junioritis? Because I think I have it. Have it bad.”

Everyone is having a hard time coping with their distractions. With Spring Break just ending, juniors and seniors have their minds focused on prom! It’s only a month away and there’s so much to do; buying tickets, altering dresses or even buying them, renting a tux, finding the perfect way to get to prom, and more importantly a date. All of this, providing for a school in disarray. However we can’t forget about our grades. We still need to make it through this year!

Kyle Tempalski, 13, says, “Being in 3 AP classes it’s hard to concentrate but being in those classes, you need to focus. There’s no room to slack off.”

Immediately across from the kitchen is the prevocational classroom, a class run by the Special Education group that does various tasks that impact many areas of the school, like designing school awards and recycling paper.

On one side of the room stand several boxes. In those boxes are food scraps from the Titan Terrace covering the top. Underneath the scraps are a great amount of earthworms, squirming around in the soil they created by feeding on them. The dirt they make is added to houseplants and to the aquariums.

Underneath and directly connected to growbeds next to these boxes are several fish tanks filled with tilapia, each tank holding several different sizes of the fish, varying from large to small. The plants in the garden and fish in the tanks are living dependently off one another, the fish exchanging the ammonia that is converted to a usuable nitrogen for the plants. The connection between the communities allows the fish to live, and the plants to continue growing. Throughout all of this, scraps of food are brought to the boxes of worms, who create more soil to allow more plants to grow, while the plants grown are brought over to the kitchen to be used as ingredients.

“The students in Foods program use the herbs for the recipes they make in the Titan Terrace,” Ms. Morgan, an occupational therapist in the POHI program, said.

She had approached the Foods teacher about establishing this program, allowing the kitchen to use all these organic products for their recipes, while giving the work program the opportunity students in recycling and biological studies. “The system is basically a real life example of the Nitrogen cycle,” Ms. Morgan said, “so there is a scientific aspect to it as well.”

The foods teachers are extremely satisfied with the results of their relationship. “With the new system, we’ve been able to get ingredients that were usually too expensive,” Ms. Adam, one of the foods teachers, said.

With the new exchange between classes, the Titan Terrace has been able to upgrade from iceberg lettuce to romaine lettuce, and have greater access to garnishes like basil and parsley, and are thus able to improve the quality of the food that they sell at the restaurant.

So whenever you eat at the Titan Terrace, remember that the improved recipes you are enjoying are not just food, but a representation of the unity that our school is home to, and the great things that unity can produce.

Mr. S                                               Mason Kaiser

    Angela Dzielski                                                                              

Kristy Healy

Time is running out for the Senior Edition Packets! If you still need one please see Mrs. Curcio, Sarah Rumpz, or Emily Johnson for one ASAP. Please turn them to Mrs. Curcio in room 238 in the box or to Sarah Rumpz, Emily Johnson, Cassidy Johncox, or Sean Drabik.