The Greatest Movie Ever Sold

• What did you LEARN about advertising and product placement from this movie? (Be specific)

I don't think I ever realized the amount of effort it would take to get a product in a film. I sort of just assumed that products would want to be in movies so it would be okay. It does make sense though that they wouldn't want to ruin their image by being in a certain kind of movie. I did notice afterward about the Ban deodorant being in one scene when Morgan was interviewing Quentin Tarantino that a bottle of Ban was on the table. 

• What did you LIKE about this movie?

I really like the small segment about music in commercials. I know that when I watch commercials whenever I hear a song I know I get excited. Now with Shazam (the app on the iphone, I think), you can actually put your phone up to the screen and it listens and then finds the song online. They you can buy the song right there. It is so crazy to think about it, and how much money that they get from it. 

Saved by the Bell

• What is a subliminal message?- It is a hidden message that contains some type of a meaning for people to follow.
• What examples does the teacher give to explain subliminal messaging?- The example she gave was how movie theaters put pictures of popcorn to get people to buy food at the theater. The teacher created a tape that had a subliminal message to make her students buy her apples and flowers.
• How does Zach take advantage of this new information?- Zach decides to create a tape to get the principal to like him (so he wouldn't get in trouble) and he also used it on Kelly do get her to go to the dance with him.
• Although this show is silly and exaggerated, what is the show realistically saying about the dangers and power of advertising?- The dangers of advertising is that people might not take it the right way. The message can be to do one thing and someone does the opposite. The power of advertising is that it can effect a lot of people considerable quickly.

Ray Charles' foundation sues his children

By Alan Duke, CNN, April 1, 2012

http://www.cnn.com/2012/04/01/showbiz/ray-charles-lawsuit/index.html?hpt=us_c2

The Ray Charles Foundation accuses seven of Ray Charles's children for claiming rights to his songs, when they really didn't have the rights. The children's claim over the song "created an enormous cloud" over the songs' overall value. Some of the songs include "I Got a Woman" and "What'd I Say". The defendants' lawyer is Marc Toberoff who is most famous for representing the Superman estate co-creator Jerry Siegel who is having a battle with copyright with Warner Brothers.

This is important because an entire foundation is getting involved with the children of the creator. The claims to these songs have a large impact on the foundation and the amount of money it will have. The foundation supports education programs for the hearing impaired.

Ray Charles's Children Sued

Who does own the songs if the children do not?

Studio Tour Casts Spells Just Like Harry

By Sarah Lyall, March 29, 2012, The NY Times

http://travel.nytimes.com/2012/04/01/travel/studio-tour-casts-spells-like-harry-potter.html?ref=travel#

The most popular place in Europe now is London, and it is the Warner Brothers Studio Tour of the "Harry Potter" set. All the props and scenery is there, the costumes and dolls, the monsters and magic. The model of Hogwarts Castle is right there for all to see. The tour is mostly self guided, and completely worth it. You walk through the sets of the Gryffindor boy's dorm filled with posters and suitcases. Even the three-decker Knight Bus that was used in the third movie was right there in the studio. There is also a short movie with the main stars, talking about their childhood and their lives on screen.

This is newsworthy because it allows such great fans, of the books and of the movie industry in general. People get to walk through the Hogwarts Great Hall and learn about how everything was made and what is really behind all the magic. It is a fantastic idea to let the people in the studios.

Harry Potter Studio Tour

How much money does it take to build all of these sets and keep them?

James Nachtwey

• What did James study in college?- Art History and Political Science from Dartmouth
• What inspired him to be a photographer?- The images from the Vietnam War and the American Civil Rights movement inspired him.
• What are some honors and awards that he has received?- He was shown at the International Center of Photography in NY. He also received the Common Wealth Award, Martin Luther King Award, and Photographer of the Year (seven times).
  

• Choose one photo essay from his gallery to look through:
• What was the photo essay about?- I did the Deeds of War
• What was your favorite photo in the essay?- I really like the photo of the clergyman going to Pop John Paul II's funeral during war.
• Why was that one your favorite?- I think that it was interesting because even though there were all of these sad concepts (war and death) this one man is still going to a funeral. I also like how this picture, like the others aren't posed and are a moment in time.

Digital Truth

1. The "Conveniently Placed Toys" were really disturbing. The picture of the rumble and debris in general is upsetting. Knowing that people's lives were lost and that a city was destroyed is tragic enough, but addressing that children were there makes it worse. When someone hears a story about a murder it is sad, but add a kid it makes it more interesting and more depressing. Having the toy makes sense if you are trying to make it sad, but it makes it annoying because of how staged it is. Also making it a Disney toy is heartbreaking.
2. In "Kiss by the Hotel De Ville" the kiss was staged. It doesn't seem like that big of a deal because in general people like reading about love and romance. It is really disappointing to hear about this because it seems does take away the "moment" of it all. I think that not hearing the truth is almost better.
3. The "Cottingley Fairies" picture is very interesting because looking at it now it seems so ridiculous that people could have believed this. Even Arthur Conan Doyle believed it which is shocking because he was considered a pretty smart man. Come to think of it though, people believe a lot of different photoshopping now a days, it really isn't much different.

Canadian province of Ontario legalizes brothels in landmark ruling

By Paula Newton, CNN, March 26, 2012

http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/26/world/americas/canada-ontario-legalizes-brothels/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

In Ontario, Canada, the court officially ruled prostitution laws unfair because apparently they discriminate against prostitutes. While this might make sense in a very illogical way (discriminating against people is wrong), brothels should not be made legal. The judges continued to say that a prostitutes should be able "to work indoors, in location under her control." Basically the new law is the prostitutes can work indoors, but they cannot go out on the street to try to get costumers.

This is newsworthy because in America prostitution is illegal so it is interesting that a place that is so close to have it legalized. Also the fact that insulting the prostitutes is inappropriate and Canada is uncomfortable with that. I find the whole situation odd.

Should prostitutes start getting insurance for their 'jobs' or benefits?

Prostitution: Legalized... in Canada

Who's really flying the plane?

By Thom Patterson, CNN, March 26, 2012

http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/24/travel/autopilot-airlines/index.html?hpt=li_c2

Do you know how a plane is flown? Neither do I. Millions of people travel each year and yet most of them have the wrong facts on how a plane is flown. "There are millions of people out there who are under the impression that the airplane is flying itself and the pilots are there in case something goes wrong," says Patrick Smith, a young commercial pilot. There are computers that allow the pilots to stop piloting for a period of time, but for the most part, there is always someone in the cockpit with their hands on the wheel. Many pilots actually get offended that people have these false impressions on piloting.

This is newsworthy because without an actual pilot accidents like the Sullenberger would not have been saved. Sullenberger or Sully piloted the airplane without any auotpilot on the Hudson River in 2009. A pilot is more important than an auto pilot. That is why there is training involved to become one.

Autopilot vs. Pilot

When was autopilot invented?

Two Men, Two Flips of Fate

Within just two days of each other, two different football players on different teams got into car accidents. St. Louis Rams wide receiver Isaac Bruce and Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Derrick Thomas were both in accidents with another in the car. Thomas was in the car with his friends who died and Bruce was in the car with his girlfriend who survived. Due to the accident Thomas needed to go through six hours of surgery and ended up paralyzed from the chest down. Bruce was fine. He was going to play for the rest of his life. He would wear his Super Bowl championship hat and shirt. Bruce says it was all God’s decision. He doesn’t think that he could have been Thomas.

This is such a shocking and tragic story. It tells that there is no reason as to why some people get injured horribly and why others walk away fine. Thomas will never be able to play again and Bruce is perfectly fine, both of them weren’t wearing their seatbelts. The article definitely shows the dangers of not wearing a seat belt, but also that accidents happen and they are scary. The interesting take on God makes the article a bit more eerie, but somewhat uplifting.

Gunman Kills 4 at Jewish School in France

By Steven Erlanger, March 19, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/20/world/europe/gunman-kills-3-at-a-jewish-school-in-france.html?_r=1&hp

In Toulouse, France this morning a unnamed gunman went to a Jewish school, Ozar Hatorah, and killed four people as well in injuring one. Three out of these four were just children. It is suspected that the gunman was shooting just to shoot and didn't really have a specific target. Michel Valet, whose two children were killed said, "He shot at everything he could see, children and adults, and some children were chased into the school." The current president Nicolas Sarkozy was in the middle of a campaign for his hopeful reelection when he stopped to go to the scene. Likewise, his opponent Francois Hollade did the same exact thing. There is no more information known as of now.

This is definitely newsworthy because four innocent people at a school were killed for no clear reason. Considering that most of them were young children, and the one injured a 17- year old boy, this could be linked towards a hate crime, or just an insane man with a gun. Either way this is tragic and hopefully investigators will find out who committed such a crime.

4 Killed, 3 Children, at School in France

Does France, or any other country have a "code blue" like America does?

How "Hunger Games" Built Up Must-See Fever

By Books Barnes, March 18,2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/19/business/media/how-hunger-games-built-up-must-see-fever.html?ref=arts#

The latests trend all around is "The Hunger Games". It is a trilogy by Suzzane Collins and the first book is now being released as a movie starring Oscar nominated Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth. The books are about a futuristic world where once a year 24 children are selected to off each other in a fight to death in a televised arena. This is pretty dark material, which caused advertisement companies a hard time to sell it. They could have been straight forward, knowing the immense following of the series anyway, but for those who haven't read the books, they would be put off. What advertisers decided to do was create Facebook pages, Twitter accounts, and an ubiquitous fiery logo. They didn't just advertise, they got the public involved with contests and online scavenger hunts.

This is newsworthy because it is hard to understand what adversities advertisers must go through when selling critically acclaimed as well as undeniably dark books turned movie. With all of this advertising world wide the box office is estimated to make $90 million opening weekend. That is a great deal more than the first "Twilight" (a strong competitor) and more on par with "Ironman". The movie comes out this Friday everywhere, unless you are like me and you are seeing it at midnight on Thursday.

"Hunger Games" is Everywhere

How much money goes into all the advertising?

Sports Journalism

Why might you read a newspaper article about a game, whether or not you saw it?

You would read it for the highlights of the game. Also the article can include other stats about the players or coaches. There could just be more information about sports in general, not just exactly what happened.

Norway: Man is Charged in Rampage

By The Associated Press, March 7, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/08/world/europe/norway-man-is-charged-in-rampage.html?ref=europe

In Norway, Anders Behring Breivik was formally charged on Wednesday for terrorism and murder. This was in relation to the 77 killings last July. While he did indeed confess to this, prosecutors said that he will most likely not end up in prison. They said that Breivik could be considered psychotic and would be admitted into a care facility. There will be a trial starting next month for full charges on this case. Prosecutor Inga Bejer Engh said that Breivik will most likely spend his life in captivity.

This is newsworthy because a terrorist attack should never be taken lightly. In this case, it clearly isn't especially considering that Breivik did confess to these murders. Hopefully, this man will be convicted properly next month. It just shows that terrorism isn't stopping and also that it doesn't just happen in the Middle East.

Terrorist Charged in Norway

Was anyone else involved in this attack?

Boy's Death a Homicide; Man Charged

By Channing Joseph, March 11, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/12/nyregion/brooklyn-boys-death-a-homicide-man-charged.html?ref=nyregion

On Saturday, Jacqil Degraffenreid, a twenty- three month old, from Cypress Hills was found unconscious and unresponsive in his home by his mother. According to the authorities, it appeared that Jacqil had suffered from many massive injuries to his organs. Officially his death was caused by "lacerations of the liver and pancreas with internal hemorrhage due to blunt-impact injuries." Though medical examiners have no idea who would do this, neither do family members. Tyree Wright was the only person in the house when the injuries occurred. The nineteen year old was charged with assault to a minor. The mother is not considered a suspect in this.

This is newsworthy because there is no proof that Wright actually committed the crime to the little boy. It seems a little too early to charge him with assault. It is interesting how the justice system works and that Wright can be charged so soon. More will come out about this soon, but as of now Wright is looking at man slaughter charges as well.

Little Boy's Death Considered Homicide

Why was Wright convicted so soon?

Topic for Fashion Article

I am writing a feature piece on Tavi Gevinson, a thirteen year old girl with her own fashion blog, and who has been to NY Fashion Week (and met the likes of Anna Wintour).

Officials Tell of Fake Labels Hidden Beneath Fake Labels

This brief article by Nate Schweber discusses the recent arrests of twenty nine people who were involved with counterfeit goods. A bunch of UGG-like shoes were shipped to New Jersey to be sold, by putting actual UGG labels on the shoes. The plan was to sell around $325 million worth of these so called goods in the United States. An attorney from New Jersey said, "It's one of the largest counterfeit-goods cases ever prosecuted in this country." The goods came from China and were brought to the US with full intention of selling them illegally. The goods were found in warehouses in Newark and Roselle, NJ. The UGG boots weren't the only counterfeit item that these people planned on selling, they were also selling, purses by Coach, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Gucci. The selling of counterfeit items, besides it being illegal is harmful for the actual companies.

At Least 15 Dead in Poland Train Collision

By The Associated Press, The NY Times, March 3, 2012

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/04/world/europe/poland-train-collision-kills-8.html?ref=europe

On Saturday in Poland two trains collided which killed 15 people and injured around 50. Locals say that it was one of the worst train disasters in history, for the area. The trains collided because they were both on the same track. One was heading from Warsaw to Krakow and the other from Przemysl to Warsaw. Maintenance is not exactly sure how the train going to Krakow ended up on the same track. Pictures of the trains are all over the Polish television channels.

This is very newsworthy because the fact that two trains ended up on the same track is ridiculous. Maintenance needs to figure this out right away, so that this will never happen again. Lives were lost over a major mistake in the system.

Two Trains Hit Each Other, 15 Dead

How often are their train accidents all over the world?

Dr. Seuss' "The Lorax" Has Huge Opening Weekend

By Brooks Barnes, March 4, 2012, The NY Times

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/04/dr-seuss-the-lorax-has-huge-opening-weekend/

This weekend at the box office, "The Lorax" was the biggest seller. In total, the movie was made for around $70 million. It actually ended up making $70.7 million for this weekend. The price will most definitely go up within the next few weeks. Interestingly enough, the second most popular was "Project X"- a completely different movie. While "The Lorax" is about saving the Earth and appreciating our world, "Project X" is about a bunch of drunk kids partying (apparently based on a true story). "Project X" made $20.8 million in sales (and that includes people going to midnight premieres). Though "Project X" only cost the production studio $12 million to make.

This is newsworthy how two completely different movies can make so much money in one weekend. It is clear that the movies are still alive and well. For a while people weren't so certain of it because of advances in technology- it would seem pointless to go to a movie and see film when the DVD/Blu-Ray is of better quality.

"The Lorax" Beats "Project X"

Do family movies tend to do better in theaters?

The Devil Wears Prada

• What did you learn about working in the world of fashion journalism from this movie? Be specific (meaning use examples from the movie).
  
• If you could report on any part of the fashion industry, which part would you work on? (think about the movie, and think about that sheet I gave you originally about fashion journalism)

From watching this film, I realized that the world of fashion journalism requires a vast knowledge of the industry. When Miranda makes her speech on what Andy is wearing and how she didn't really pick it out, she references Oscar de la Renta and YSL. In order for Miranda to clearly make her point she would need to know all of the past fashion lines that these designers had. Also in a meeting with the other workers at Runway, Miranda is trying to figure out another new photo shoot that doesn't copy any other previous shoot. A journalist would need all old fashion lines and new items coming out. They would need to know when someone is copying another designer.

I would probably think of the fashion from a different point of view, instead of focusing on the clothing, I would focus on the models. In the movie, Emily is obsessed with losing weight for the Paris trip so she can easily fit into all the clothing. While it was supposed to be a running joke throughout the movie, it does stem from a very real issue. Also the fact that sample sizes only come in twos and fours. This means that models who aren't naturally thin have to go to extreme measures to lose weight. This is a very important issue because it affects young girls around the world.

France's former currency is devalued to zilch

By Devorah Lauter, LA Times, Feb. 27, 2012

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-france-franc-20120218,0,3905796.story

For the longest time France used its own form of currency called francs. In recent years now, France, like many other countries throughout Europe have switched to euros. It is now official that francs are now worthless. They are now considered to be a relic. One man went to the bank to exchange his francs for euros, he went in with 70 francs and came out with 10.67 euros. While that might not seem like a lot at all, people appreciate being able to get some money for their useless coins. Many people miss francs because they felt rich having 100 francs, even though in reality it wasn't very much compared to euros. Also natives are expressing sadness that now when they look at the money they won't see popular French figures anymore.

This is newsworthy because it this shows how far Europe has come as a whole that almost every country now is using euros. The only country that can come to my mind that isn't is the UK (they still use pounds) which makes me think how much longer it will take for them to change over. Using euros has a sense of unity to it, what if all countries all around used the same form of currency? That just isn't very realistic though because of the varying economies and inflation/deflation.

Franc is no more- come on euros

Should all of North America use the same form of currency?

Loud Oscar Roar for "The Artist": 5 Wins

By Michael Cieply and Brooks Barnes, Feb. 27, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/27/movies/awardsseason/the-artist-wins-best-picture-at-the-academy-awards.html?_r=1&ref=arts

Last night was the 84th Academy Awards ceremony, where "The Artist" won best picture, best actor in a leading role, and best director (as well as best costume design). So why was "The Artist" so popular? Well maybe because it was a huge tribute to the film industry, or maybe because it was the second silent film to win. The first silent film that won the award was also the first movie to be awarded, "Wings". This wasn't the only movie that held a dear place in the film institutes heart. "Hugo" which won many awards last night, was about Georges Melies who was an outstanding silent filmmaker.

This is newsworthy because the Academy Awards is a very prestigious award to win for anyone in the film industry. "The Artist" was an excellent movie and paid a wonderful tribute to the evolution of film. It definitely deserved all the awards it won. Maybe more silent movies will come out because of the success of this movie.

"The Artist" Brings It Home

What does it take to be nominated for Best Picture?

Winter Weather Brings Deaths and Disrupts Travel in Europe

By Matt Flegenheimer, Feb. 11, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/12/world/europe/winter-weather-brings-deaths-and-disrupts-travel-in-europe.html?_r=1&ref=europe

A deadly avalanche occurred in Kosovo and covered Rome in snow for the second time this week. The avalanche killed a married couple, and their son. There are nine people reported missing. This isn't the only report of snow. Two feet of snow covered Podgorica in Montenegro which was the most snow this city has since the year 1949. The snow has been so bad that airports have had to close. Just last weekend around 131 people died in the Ukraine when the temperatures dropped below freezing. Even the Pope said, "The snow is beautiful but let's hope that spring comes soon."

This is newsworthy because the weather is effecting many people all across Europe. Deaths have polled in Poland, France, Italy and Hungary. This effects people living in these countries and people traveling for business or pleasure.

Freezing Cold in Europe

Is this the coldest winter in Europe?

Belgian Court Refuses to Ban "Tintin in the Congo"

By Dave Itzkoff, Feb. 13, 2012, The NY Times

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/02/13/belgian-court-refuses-to-ban-tintin-in-the-congo/?ref=arts

"The Adventures of Tintin" series went to the Belgian courts in order to be banned. However, the court's decision was to not ban the series because any allegations about racism in the series were completely false. The book originally came out in 1931 and was reissued in 1946. "Tintin in the Congo" was the most problematic of all the stories to be published. The Congolese in the book were depicted with dark skin and large lips. Many Congolese were offended by the illustrations. In the end the books are saved and will not be banned from any libraries or book stores.

This is newsworthy because this book has been around for so long and just now people are trying to get the book banned. Banning books always seems pointless in the end because books are supposed to expose people to other worlds and views. Banning a book for being racist or sexist is wrong, in the end it is your own choice whether or not to read it.

Banning Another Children's Book

How many books go through this process a year?

It Really Grinds My Gears...

1. When people oppose same-sex marriages.
2. When people obsess over reality 'stars'.
3. When rappers use racial slurs.

Hesitant Sentences Corrected

I think schools should stop making kids come so early in the morning.

Teenagers need more sleep compared to adults. Having these young adults come to school so early in the morning isn't beneficial for their learning. In fact, students should start classes later in the morning to ensure a goodnights sleep.

I think it would be cool if the Olympics were held in NJ.

If the Olympics were held in NJ it would help boost the economy. There would be more jobs available for the events and many more opportunities in advertising.

It’s my feeling that people should be nicer to each other.

If people were nicer to each other the world would be more productive and respectful. This way there would be no arguments at work that could slow down production time. Also, road rage related accidents could be cut in half.

I believe everyone should have first-aid training.

First-aid training should be provided in high schools throughout the country. Knowing simple skills such as CPR could save a life.

I feel like companies should stop testing cosmetics on animals.

Companies need to stop testing any type of cosmetics out on animals. Animals are innocent creatures who do not have a say in what is getting placed on them. They are forced against their own will and could be considered abuse and mistreatment.

Collaboration Brings Google to French Business School

By The International Herald Tribune, Feb. 5, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/06/world/europe/collaboration-brings-google-to-french-business-school.html?ref=europe

Just recently, Google has teamed up with a French Business school. This is the first time that Google has ever teamed up with any type of school before. What is Google doing? The company is going to" help train students to become great entrepreneurs in digital business" says Bernard Ramanantsoa, who is the director general of HEC (the French Business School). The project consists of a series of lectures and seminars.

This is newsworthy because if any company were to train young adults into becoming entrepreneurs, the best company to do it would be Google. This is also surprising that Google hasn't decided to do this before. The internet is booming and there are more companies being made daily. It makes sense that Google would get in to properly instruct people on being successful.

Google Trains Students

Is Yahoo or any other big internet company going to start doing this?

McCartney Answers His Own Question

By Stephen Holden, Feb. 6, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/07/arts/music/a-new-album-from-paul-mccartney.html?_r=1&ref=arts

Paul McCartney's new album came out entitled, "Kisses on the Bottom". The album is filled with silly love songs and at one point addresses the fact that love songs are okay to write about. McCartney is famous for making love songs such as "Maybe I'm Amazed" with Linda McCartney. Some critics are tired for hearing songs about love and songs about being in love with love. With Valentine's Day coming up, writing love songs isn't necessarily bad. Plus, if McCartney is so good at it, he might as well continue writing. Overall the reviews on the album are all positive. Personally, I love hearing more music coming from the former Beatle.

This is newsworthy because new music coming out is always good. It is cultural and keeps the entertainment industry alive. Also it is always exciting for such a historical musical icon to come out with new material in his later years. This just proves how successful McCartney is.

McCartney and His Silly Little Love Songs

Does McCartney plan on going on tour?

Persuasive Techniques Assignment

Bandwagon: Every other school has dances for the students, therefore our school should start having them again.

Testimonial: Jeremy tested out many different video games and has come to a conclusion that the first CAll of Duty is the best available.

Expert Opinion: John Bender, a highly respected children's psychologist, says that "uniforms do not properly promote individuality and are not good for young adults and children."

Statistics: According to Fandango, "Man on a Ledge" has increased 90% in the box office last weekend.

Call to Action: Teenagers need to listen to the curfew policies in town so the crime rate will go down.

Emotional Appeal: Receiving a certain amount of detentions eventually goes on a student's permanent record so colleges and future employment can see it.

Rhetorical Questions: Do you enjoy endless nights of doing ridiculous amounts of homework that teachers don't go over?

Repetition: Parents. They annoy you to do your homework. Parents. They are always on top of your school work. Parents. Are they too intrusive?

Prediction: If you stop doing your homework and studying for tests, then your grades will suffer.

Cause and Effect: Due to the fact that athletes need locker space in the gym, the other students cannot use the lockers for gym class.

French Police Detain Founder of Breast Implant Maker

By Maia De La Baume and David Jolly, Jan. 26, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/27/world/europe/french-police-arrest-founder-of-breast-implant-maker.html?ref=europe

Jean-Claude Mas is now being detained for being the founder of Poly Implants Protheses, a company that creates breast implants from silicone. Mas is now being convicted for manslaughter because the implants have ruptured inside some women causing a rare form of cancer t0 form. Mas has not been formally charged yet with anything because charging (in France) only occurs after full sentencing.

This is newsworthy because it is well known that breast implants are a very popular cosmetic surgery however, people don't realize that the implants first have to carefully be made in a factory. Like any product, implants need to be made with care. While there aren't that many complaints about these implants, there are enough for concern. Implants rupturing is not something people think about often, but the fact that it causes cancer is.

Breast Implant Maker in Trouble

Why is it that Mas is the sole responsible person being detained, convicted, and questioned?

Musical About Charlie Chaplin Heading to Broadway

By Robin Pogrebin, The NY Times, Jan. 30th, 2012

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/30/musical-about-charlie-chaplin-heading-to-broadway/?ref=arts

There are tons of new Broadway plays coming this Spring, such as "Evita", "Ghost" and "Newsies". Now another play coming out (a little later) is a musical about Charlie Chaplin. For those who don't know who he is, he is a famous silent movie comedian that starred in over 30 films. The play is called "Becoming Chaplin" and is composed by Christopher Curtis who also composed "Annie", "The Producers", and "Hairspray". This should open up in the 2012-2013 season, though casting has not been announced yet.

This is newsworthy because new plays are always coming out and they are interesting when they are about famous people. Also just the concept of making a musical on a silent film star is very daring and hopefully will come out strong.

A Silent Musical

What parts of Chaplin's life will be parts of the play?

Captain Rebuked in Transcript; 5 More Bodies Are Found

By Gaia Pianigiani and Alan Cowell, Jan. 17, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/18/world/europe/rescuers-search-for-survivors-in-italian-cruise-ship-accident.html?ref=europe

Recently, five bodies were pulled from the sunken cruise ship, which raises the death toll to eleven now. The ship's captain had smashed the ship on a reef and right after decided his own life was more valuable and raced to a life boat. There are recordings of the coast guard, Gregorio Maria De Falco speaking with the captain, Schettino, telling him to figure out the number of people on the ship and figure out what those people need. The captain agreed to it, then he left without doing his job. Not many survivors are being found from this tragedy. The search team states that they hope some people abandoned ship without telling anyone, and that more people are safe.

I am shocked by these events. A captain of a ship is supposed to be the one in charge. It is his ship, therefore he should respect it as well as the people on it. Their lives are in his hands. This captain clearly didn't care about the people on board the way he should have and it is disgusting. People like him shouldn't be allowed in a leadership position of they are unable to continue with their responsibilities in a crisis. More passengers should be able to find out more on their captains before boarding a ship so that maybe this could be avoided in some ways.

O Captain! My... Hey Where'd You Go?

What types of training/tests, of any, does a person have to go through to be a captain of a cruise ship?

The Rich Are Different: They're in 3-D

By Michael Cieply, Jan. 16, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/17/movies/baz-luhrmann-puts-the-great-gatsby-into-3-d.html?_r=1&ref=arts

What is the point in putting everything in 3-D now? First it was "Avatar" which gave more life to the mysterious planet Pandora, now it is "The Great Gatsby". Does "Gatsby" really need to be in 3-D though, couldn't it just serve it's purpose in regular 2-D? Director Baz Luhrmann, who directed both "Moulin Rouge!" and "Australia" has decided to go the 3-D route for the emotional aspect. He wants the audience to feel like they are in the room with Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway and Daisy Buchanan. If "Gone With the Wind" was the first colored film to win an Oscar, and "The Lord of the Rings" was the first to use such elaborate fantasy effects to win an Oscar, than maybe Luhrmann is trying something worth doing. "The Great Gatsby" could be the first 3-D movie, where you wouldn't expect 3-D to be used, because it isn't a horror film or a sci-fi adventure. It is a classic American novel translated, yet again onto film. Luhrmann truly believes that this is the best idea for the latest interpretation. He even says that Fitzgerald would approve.

Is this newsworthy? I would think so. People see movies all the time but figuring out how they are made and even the decision to put a movie in 3-D or not is a big one. With today's technology almost anything seems possible in Hollywood- so why not put Leonardo DiCaprio's face in 3-D, I'm sure women won't mind. This movie could be a huge gamer changer for the industry and maybe more films will be set in 3-D from now on.

Still Rich, Just with More Dimensions

Will this use of 3-D be an inspiration for more films or even television shows to be put in 3-D?

Questions for Roshni

• What does the French Club do for the school? What are some examples of activities?
• Do you feel like being in the French Club has helped you with learning more about the French culture? How and why?
• What was so intriguing about joining the French Club?
• Since you are in AP French 5, was this an influence to join the French Club and become the president?
• What was one of your favorite activities that the club has done recently or over the years?

Tortured Afghan girl suffering in hospital, aid worker says

By CNN Live Wire, Jan. 4, 2012

http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/07/world/asia/afghan-girl-mistreatment/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

A 15 year older girl was allegedly tortured by her own in-laws in Afghanistan after she had refused to go into prostitution. Now she is in the hospital and is in critical condition. The only good thing now is that she is safe in the hospital. Unfortunately she is too weak to move her body and is covered in bruises. She was provided with a trauma counselor because she is at the point where she doesn't even want people touching her. She was married off to a 30-year old man and they were the ones who forced her into the prostitution business.

This is newsworthy because I had no idea that this was actually going on in Afghanistan. It is very heartbreaking to hear this going on and upsetting that this hospital is doing everything they can to help out this girl.

Girl in Afghanistan in Critical Condition

How common is placing 15 year old girls in the prostitution business?

Get on TV? Hey, Smack Me Again!

By Jon Caramanica, Jan. 8, 2012, The NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/09/arts/television/caged-jersey-shore-and-teen-mom-on-mtv.html?_r=1&ref=arts

Televising sub-cultures and MTV go together like, peanut butter and jelly. First it was "Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County" then it was "Jersey Shore" and now it is "Caged". The newest show is about a small town, Minden, Louisiana where mixed martial arts is the most populat sport. Young men all gather together to punch, kick and wrestle their problems away. MTV claims that this show is much different then every other show. This show isn't about drinking or attempting to become a celebrity. This show is about how kids deal with their lousy home lives. One featured fighter, Matt comes from a broken home with a father who bailed, a mother who drinks, and a stripper for a sister.

So is this newsworthy? Maybe not. Though it is interesting. Clearly now MTV isn't all about the music anymore, but why not make it about kids from all over. Teenagers across the country sit down and watch the "Jersey Shore" which just shows adults drinking and hooking up. So now, at least they can watch something that has more substance to it. Real kids dealing with real problems.

Caged- The Newest MTV Show

Is this going to be very successful? Will teenagers be able to relate with this program?

Facts About French Clubs

• Members of the club make classic French meals, such as French onion soup, fondue, and ratatouille
• Members go on field trips to French restaurants
• They listen to popular French music
• Also they watch movies, such as La Vie En Rose and Amélie

Hit French movie 'Intouchables' has some crying 'racism'

By Devorah Lauter, Jan. 1, 2012, LA Times

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-france-untouchables-20120102,0,6120197.story

A new, independent French movie titled 'Intouchables' is about a poor black man who makes money taking care of a white quadriplegic. While many in France proclaim this movie to be a "cultural phenomenon", others feel that this is incredibly racist and inappropriate. In fact, President Nicolas Sarkozy enjoyed the movie so much that he invited the cast over for dinner. One reason why people find this movie so inappropriate was because of the easy black stereotypes used. Foreign movies are known to be pushing the boundaries, but many in France say that this movie is actually a masterpiece. In fact, the most stereotypical character is in fact the hero of the film.

It is interesting how films are perceived throughout the country. In fact, more people in America said that the film was inappropriate, meanwhile, the people in France were the ones praising the film. Oddly enough, two radio DJs were discussing the movie and at one point the DJs assumed they were discussing different movies because of the completely opposing views.

Racist Masterpiece?

What makes a film considered to be racist? Or a masterpiece?

World War I: rarely covered on film

By Stephen Farber, Jan. 3, 2012, LA Times

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/movies/la-et-world-wari-movies-20120103,0,4725524.story

World War II has been an influence for many war movies. Out of all of the wars it is definitely the most popular, especially in comparison to World War I. There are so many parts of the second world war that can be put on film, from Nazi infiltrated cities, concentration camps, to "the fight against fascist tyranny". Now Steven Spielberg has a new film out, "War Horse" though this movie is said to not be as excellent as "Schindler's List" and "Saving Private Ryan" (both which are WWII not WWI). Think about it, how many great WWI movies are there really, "All Quiet on the Western Front", yes. However other than that, it would be considered an unusual Hollywood movie time period. It is quite brave for Spielberg to direct this movie. There is already much Oscar buzz about it. Though, WWI does have one thing to offer, hope, humanity, and the possibility of glory.

This is certainly interesting because I never realized how hard it was to pick a time period for a movie and how unpopular WWI really was. This article did make me more curious about "War Horse" because I honestly couldn't even figure out what the movie was about from the commercials alone. This article will definitely give other readers more of an interest in "War Horse" and other war movies.

WWI: The Lesser War

Why is it that WWI is so unpopular in Hollywood? Is it because less people actually know about it?