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Northern Star

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The Student News Site of Northern Illinois University

Northern Star

The Student News Site of Northern Illinois University

Northern Star

Hang her up with a game of

By Chris Strupp | February 10, 2005

My girlfriend makes me upset, and I don’t think we are right for each other anymore. I want to break it off, but I don’t want the hardships involved. What should I do? Relationships are always tricky situations. However, I must say the only feasible...

Composing in the Digital Age

By Kelly Johnson | February 10, 2005

In today’s rapidly evolving technological world, new forms of expression and individuality are becoming almost limitless. Through computer music and the broader scope of new media technology, some ambitious students at NIU are harnessing these trends...

Jimmy Chamberlin: Life Begins Again

By Derek Wright | February 10, 2005

If you remember Jimmy Chamberlin as the backbone of both The Smashing Pumpkins and Zwan, don’t tell him that. On his first solo release, one of rock’s all-time greatest drummers wants us to forget his past. From the trite title track, "Life Begins...

Hey there, sexy, can I buy you a clue?

By Kristin Cavaretta | February 10, 2005

This is a test for the guys (you’ll need a friend to help you, preferably a female): Take out a $10 bill. Now take a lighter and set that bill on fire. Watch it flame until there is practically nothing left, and then throw it in the toilet. Flush. Now,...

“The Grudge”

By Richard Pulfer | February 10, 2005

"The Grudge" is a misguided attempt to bring a Japanese horror franchise to American shores. The movie offers a few genuine screams, but it is lackluster and confusing.

The DVD is a moderately better experience than the movie. The filmmakers attempted to shoot the film with the original Japanese director and crew, while inserting American actors and producers.

The special features reveals some interesting cultural gaps. The commentary of is a double-edged sword. "Evil Dead" and "Spider-Man 2" director Sam Raimi recalls several interesting experiences interacting with the Japanese crew, but actress Sarah Michelle Gellar provides bland jokes throughout the entire commentary.

Overall, the DVD is a good rental for anyone interested in Japanese cinema, but only true hardcore "Grudge" fans should shell out the money for this DVD.

“Ray”

By Richard Pulfer | February 10, 2005

The story of Ray Charles' rise to fame is both tragic and inspiring. Still, the DVD is missing a lot of features, and a Special Edition may be required to truly do justice to this brilliant film. On the plus side, the DVD includes an extremely informative...

Lights, Camera, Action!

By David Rauch | February 10, 2005

Actors are peculiar. Before every shot of "Edward Scissorhands," Johnny Depp visualized himself as a brand new baby and a dog he once had because it helped make the character. Renowned method actor Jack Nicholson worked himself into a rage, precariously...

Get a byte of reality

By Richard Pulfer | February 10, 2005

Aspiring documentary filmmakers soon will have the chance to show off their work. Reality Bytes, an NIU-hosted film festival, is accepting submissions. A cash prize of $100 will be awarded for each Best of Genre winner and $150 for the Best of Festival...

“Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow”

By Richard Pulfer | February 10, 2005

An amazing adventure told with state of the art special effects, "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow" serves up an healthy dose of action, humor and wonder. Shot almost entirely in front of a blue screen, the movie depicts a vintage comic book advneture...

What was YOUR favorite

By Chris Strupp | February 10, 2005

The Ameriquest Cat Killer commercial "Just by coincidence it was supposed to be romantic, but turned into a life threatening event." - Ben Gilbert, Freshmen, Accountancy The Bud Light sky diving ad where the pilot jumps after the beer "Totally didn’t...

It’s not me … it’s you

By Brayton Cameron | February 10, 2005

I have never been much of a romantic. In fact, I once refused to make out with my former girlfriend on her birthday because she smelled. Valentine’s Day is not one of my favorite days. However, instead of filling this column with bitterness and hate,...

On tap with religion: Reaching college students

By Collin Quick | February 10, 2005

Father Michael Black isn’t your normal priest. He plays on a basketball team called the "Runnin’ Revs" with other area pastors. He taught himself how to play the guitar in a year and a half. He knows who John Mayer is and is disappointed that Phish...