culture

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October 03, 2024
Our nation’s backbone is caught in the crossfire of racism
Not going to lie, getting subjected to crossfire racism sucks. Not only do you realize that “this person is racist”, but being a victim of crossfire racism can make a person feel like their only identity is their presumed race, which has severe implications on both the mind and the body
16 year-old Reva Sobti is the winner of the Harbinger Prize 2024
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September 26, 2024
How media stereotypes of the medical profession damage perceptions and patient care
Whether through TV, film or literature, the motives of creatives are not to portray our healthcare professionals positively or even accurately, but rather to entertain
17 year-old Ananya Prasanna explores stereotypes of surgeons as arrogant, aggressive and uncaring
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September 05, 2024
These Kamala Harris memes are so confusing, girl
By now, there are two types of people in the world: those who embrace the rise of Kamala Harris memes, and those who struggle to understand the online flurry of coconut tree emojis and pop remixes using clips of Harris’s philosophical thoughts on life. This article is for people in either group
14 year-old Helena Bruździak explains the Gen Z memes about US presidential candidate Kamala Harris
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August 28, 2024
From jail to fame: Who is the ‘infamous’ Gypsy Rose Blanchard?
Gypsy Rose Blanchard is known for the killing of her mother Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard due to alleged abuse over 19 years. Now after serving eight and a half years in prison, she has become ‘infamous’ during her time behind bars following high public interest in her story
15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska reports on the life of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who has gained an internet following after being released from prison
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August 22, 2024
A must-read: White Torture shares the agony of women prisoners in Iran
I urge you to pick up this book, to stand with Narges Mohammadi, who has risked so much to publish these testimonies, and the courageous women who have shared memories of their darkest days
16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reviews Narges Mohammadi’s book on women prisoners in Iran
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August 15, 2024
Traditional Kyrgyz weddings are unnecessary and expensive
Weddings are a huge deal in Kyrgyzstan – a celebration of rich cultural traditions and rituals. And while it is an event that is worthy of being proclaimed, the costs of holding one are unjustifiable
18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova shares how people can still honour traditions without the high price tag
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August 15, 2024
Chili, half-smokes, and history: Interviews in DC’s greatest landmark
Before even stepping into Ben’s Chili Bowl, there is the sense of walking into history. More than just a culinary landmark, though, Ben’s is a testament to the perseverance and community of the District of Columbia
17 year-old Justin Sau visits Ben’s Chili Bowl, a cultural staple in US civil rights history
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August 15, 2024
Armenia’s annual wine festival features producers from Artsakh
The festival acts as an important space to represent Artsakhian culture and significance. Among the wine-making producers were companies originating from the disputed region of Artsakh
17 year-old Laura Danielyan reports on Yerevan’s annual Wine Days festival
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August 02, 2024
Microtrends are the death of individuality – we should be wary of overconsumption
Microtrends are not subcultures. Rather than building a timeless closet, consisting of a foundation customisable to fit your style, people often opt for trending items. While this is great for businesses, microtrend consumerism is having a profound impact on our environment and individuality
17 year-old Maria Mitko hits out at the overconsumption of microtrends that ‘kills individuality’ across the world
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August 01, 2024
Revisiting Amy Winehouse: Unpacking the biopic Back to Black
Back to Black’s vivid portrayal of Amy Winehouse has reignited the debate over the ethics of biographical filmmaking, while challenging audiences to confront the complexities of fame, addiction, and artistic brilliance. In death as in life, Amy defies easy categorization, leaving an untouchable mark on music and memory alike
15 year-old Sofia Vorobei asks if the recent movie does justice to the iconic singer Amy Winehouse
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August 01, 2024
An interview with Kevin Tien: How a chef is countering hate with food-focused love
From his humble beginnings of cooking and experimenting with grilled cheese sandwiches and cooking out of necessity for his siblings, Tien has now inspired others to cook for a greater purpose and to support an important cause
17 year-old Christian Yeung in conversation with renowned chef Kevin Tien
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July 16, 2024
Reasons to visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Nepal
Narayanhiti Palace was turned into a museum after the monarchy was overthrown in Nepal and the country was declared a federal democratic republic. It was designed for kings, but now it is open to everyone. We found six interesting things about the palace that everyone must know
Students aged 11–18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project share their experiences after a recent visit to this royal museum
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July 11, 2024
A Japanese volleyball film that’s too fast for its own good
Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle is an exhilarating romp for well-versed fans, but for those who are going in blind, or have forgotten much of the anime, it can be confusing. With a limited runtime, the audience is left to fill in the gaps of many individual rivalries and character relationships
17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the animated volleyball movie Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle
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July 11, 2024
The Labour Vs Conservative TikTok battle felt like an uncle trying new slang
The parties took to TikTok and other apps soon after the election announcement, a move to be expected in order to appeal to younger voters. It is understandable that the parties are appealing to the youth vote, but you have to wonder why both sides decided to adopt the mentality of children in the process
17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz gives her take on the Labour Vs Conservative social media battle following the UK general election
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July 04, 2024
Seeking closure: why open-ended movies are frustrating
Unlike traditional movies, which typically tie up loose ends, these films often leave many questions unanswered. While some argue that this ambiguity allows characters to leap off the screen and into our imaginations, I find it puzzling rather than enlightening
16 year-old Klaudia Bacza expresses her dissatisfaction with open-ended films
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July 04, 2024
My experiences – good and bad – as a third culture kid
In today’s increasingly globalised world, more children are growing up with influences from multiple ethnic backgrounds and cultures. These children, often referred to as ‘third culture kids’ navigate the complexities of two, three or sometimes even four different cultures in their everyday life
16 year-old Camille Hasbani on the experience of being French-Syrian and living in Denmark
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July 04, 2024
Can traditional Chinese opera survive in pragmatic Singapore?
Characterised by its lyricism and elegant gestures, Chinese opera is a dying art form in Singapore. The number of Chinese street opera troupes has dwindled drastically from hundreds to about ten
18 year-old Chenxi Zhang considers the future of this historical but neglected art form
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July 04, 2024
How gaming helped me to cope with anxiety and homesickness
Many people consider gaming a waste of time or a bad addiction. However, video games have been my sanctuary, a place to let off steam and find a moment of calm amid life’s storms
16 year-old Sofiia Didenko talks about the positive impact of video games
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June 27, 2024
The creation and evolution of Superman
‘It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… Superman!’ Perhaps the most iconic superhero ever created, spawning millions of comic books, films, television shows and merchandise, the Last Son of Krypton has captured hearts and imaginations all over the world for decades
17 year-old Justin Sau explains how the ‘Man of Steel’ created the superhero genre, 90 years ago
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June 27, 2024
How Gen Z adopted LGBTQ+ slang
You might have heard of ‘slay’, ‘tea’, ‘shade’ and ‘queen’... but do you know where they originate from? Gen Z and millennials use these terms, in a variety of situations, from complimenting and hyping up their peers to expressing disrespect or disgust. But few seem to actually know where this slang came from
17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz explains the origins of modern-day slang in queer subculture
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June 27, 2024
Passion. Tension. Match point.
The film is not really about tennis, but about the tense, to-and-fro relationship that tennis represents. That sense of tension only adds to the desire-ridden love triangle that Italian director Luca Guadagnino paints in his sexy sports drama Challengers
18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Challengers, a romantic tennis drama filled with desire
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June 13, 2024
‘Say it loud, gay is proud’: A brief history of Pride Month
It’s June, which means that it’s Pride Month! Although it is still an ongoing battle to ensure equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, we have come a long way since the early days of the Pride movement. So let us take some time to discuss the origins of this incredible celebration of queerness
17 year-old Christian Yeung outlines the history of Pride Month
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June 13, 2024
See you later, space cowboy…
Set in the not-so-distant future, where humans have finally reached the stars and developed a dysfunctional multi-planetary society, Cowboy Bebop is part Western, part space opera, part neo-noir, and all fun
17 year-old Christian Yeung explains the appeal of the 1998 cult classic anime Cowboy Bebop
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June 06, 2024
Gen Z has mixed reactions to the 2024 Met Gala
The 2024 Met Gala, being a celebration that brings together the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and art, has received its feedback from Gen Z audiences and there is a lot to say
16 year-old Klaudia Bacza dissects Gen Z’s reactions to this year’s Met Gala in New York
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June 06, 2024
Nineteen Eighty-Four: past, present and future
Nineteen Eighty-Four drew inspiration from the rise of totalitarian regimes by frightening readers with the threat of surveillance and loss of privacy. But what does that say about society today, where almost everyone has phones, tablets, computers, and smartwatches
17 year-old Justin Sau discusses the enduring relevance of Orwell’s masterpiece on its 75th birthday
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May 30, 2024
Why everyone waited for Taylor Swift’s new album – including me
On the day that Taylor Swift released her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, the first thing I did upon waking up was to open my Apple Music app and listen to the first song on the album
15 year-old Klara Hammudeh gives her verdict on the American superstar’s latest release
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May 23, 2024
Video games are the new way to experience stories
Video games are an untapped source of entertainment and stories. In a sense, it is a playable movie; something that you are both watching and controlling at the same time. Today, video games deliver a spectacle in both visuals and world-building
17 year-old Christian Yeung on the untapped potential of video games
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May 23, 2024
Is the price of having an aesthetic too high?
With the rise of social media subcultures, aesthetics have become the new trend. This viral internet trend is becoming an obsession with reducing ourselves to a defined box and capitalising on our purchasing addiction to stay current, but at the expense of the environment and our authenticity
14 year-old Helena Bruździak delves into the social media phenomenon of Gen Z aesthetics
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May 23, 2024
Teen hero returns for a second helping of heavy-hitting action and powerful emotions
Though not as powerful as the first season, season 2 of Invincible manages to stay fairly steady in terms of quality, with even the weaker episodes being resonant and exciting. I just hope we won’t have to wait another two years for the next season
17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the second season of Amazon Prime’s animated superhero series Invincible
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May 16, 2024
Dev Patel’s directorial debut goes bananas
In the world where John Wick and its imitators dominate the action movie genre, Dev Patel picks up a camera, directs and stars to deliver a unique piece full of passion and flare. Monkey Man might not push the boundaries of the genre, but it has everything to become an action cult classic
18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Monkey Man, a gritty action movie with a rush of adrenaline
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May 09, 2024
Are NBA referees killing the game of basketball?
From players making ‘money’ gestures to the referees, coaches angrily discussing film on laptops during press conferences, and even the league’s own Officiating Last Two-Minute Reports commonly displaying multiple incorrect calls, the state of basketball refereeing is incredibly dire. There needs to be more accountability for consistently inaccurate officiating
17 year-old Inika Singh explains the controversies surrounding NBA officiating
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May 02, 2024
Women-only spaces are necessary, not sexist. Here’s why
While opponents can claim that the exclusion of men amounts to sex discrimination, many argue that women-only spaces are a solution to gender inequality. These places prioritise women’s well-being and ultimately, have no negative effect on anyone
17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the importance of women-only spaces and announces the launch of the Women’s Desk at Harbingers’
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May 02, 2024
Hollywood, please stop making movie musicals!
While stage-to-screen adaptations attempt to capture the essence of the original stories, there is a lingering sense that something is lost in translation – the raw and real energy of live theatre. Hollywood’s attempt to please everyone continually leaves no one satisfied
17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala bemoans the adaptations of stage musicals to film
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April 25, 2024
Bugs for dinner? Why eating insects is good for you…
Insects are one of the most sustainable food sources we have. Across the world, eating insects remains an important tradition. But not in the West – instead, there are fierce stigmas that surround entomophagy
17 year-old Anna Louise Lovat explains entomophagy and why it could be the next big thing
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April 25, 2024
An adventurous meditation on love soaked with Italian magic –La Chimera review
Every frame of Italian director Alice Rorhwacher’s La Chimera (a chimera is an illusion or invention of the mind) is permeated with the mythical magic and dizziness of the scorching Italian sun. It manages to be fantastical, amusing, and romantic all at once
18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the captivating and dreamy Italian film
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April 25, 2024
We are bored: Gifted students need challenge to thrive
Gifted and Talented programs have helped students worldwide to enrich their learning. MACC, the Vancouver school program which accelerated the pace of the standard curriculum, has now been redesigned to shorten the support provided to students
18 year-old Erin Walshaw talks about her experience as a gifted student in Vancouver – and the problems she faces
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April 18, 2024
‘Misinformation is now produced on an industrial scale’ – Concerns over propaganda on social media
Three in ten children aged 12–15 used TikTok as a news source in 2022. With the rapid growth of social media, misinformation is both accessible and actively promoted to vulnerable young people on an unprecedented scale
17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz interviews history student, Gabrielle Segal, on misinformation and propaganda
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April 18, 2024
A guide to Holi – The Hindu festival of colour
Celebrated during the months of Chaitra and Falgun in the Nepali calendar, Holi is a major event. In the capital, Kathmandu, it is full of noisy laughing crowds of people splattered in different colours
Students aged 11-18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project shared their celebration of Holi Festival
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April 18, 2024
Esports is a sport. Period
Despite its rapid growth, competitive online gaming isn't given the same respect as basketball or football, with many still believing it is just an activity for lazy nerds sitting in their mom's basement. So why should esports be considered a sport?
17 year-old Christian Yeung on the acknowledgment that esports deserves
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April 18, 2024
Womansplaining mansplaining
Mansplaining. If you’re a woman, I can almost guarantee that you sighed at that word. Societal history has allowed for sexism to take route but there are steps we can take today to reevaluate and correct these behaviours
17 year-old Alia Saphier explains mansplaining and how to break the cycle
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April 11, 2024
Teens don’t owe you opinions
As a generation we are more motivated than most before us. In spite of adults attempting to skew the opinions of teens on a vast array of unsolvable problems we should craft our own opinions and choose which to fight for
16 year-old Sanjana Senthil on the overloaded choices young people face on social media
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March 29, 2024
Why Ukrainians speak Russian
When I’m asked why so many other Ukrainian refugees speak Russian, I am not sure what to answer, as the answer lies beneath complex layers of oppression from our neighbouring country – it is not a preference.
17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines the history of linguicide in Ukraine
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March 22, 2024
Netflix’s release strategies are dangerous to auteur cinema
As the 2023 award season comes to an end, Netflix has once again gained global recognition for its original content. But could the streaming giant in its pursuit of acclaim pose a danger to the future of cinema?
18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the dangers of a never-ending stream of content
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March 15, 2024
We’re not ‘lazy’, technology has simply made jobs easier and more profitable
“Lazy,” “entitled,” “careless” and “lacklustre” are just some of the words used to describe my generation. But is Gen Z deserving of such names or are these just amplified misconceptions?
18 year-old Timur Boranbayev on corporate rejection amid the changing workplace
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March 15, 2024
A medium for kids? Why we should award more Oscars to animated films
Many anime films have received universal praise for their unique storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes, yet are largely ignored in other categories at the Oscars. As one of the leading authorities on film, the Academy must spearhead the effort to challenge preconceived notions that animation can’t be taken seriously
17 year-old Justin Sau on the greater recognition animated films deserve
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March 08, 2024
Singaporean LGBTQ+ community still faces a ‘long road ahead’ despite constitutional changes
Despite a shift in governmental policies towards the LGBTQ+ community, discrimination still exists. The government continues to advocate for family units being strictly heterosexual to ‘protect’ the marriage constitution
18 year-old Chenxi Zhang explores progressive steps towards equality
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March 08, 2024
Unique Nepali foods everyone must taste once in their life
Young people in Kathmandu shared with Harbingers’ the traditional dishes they would like every reader to try once landing themselves at the feet of the Himalayas
11 students from Nepal recommend outstanding Nepali cuisine
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March 08, 2024
How many water bottles is too many? The state of overconsumption in America
Stanley Cups recently saw an astronomical increase in sales coupled with a social media craze. Companies continue to capitalize on the fear of missing out and influencer-led marketing campaigns
17 year-old Christian Yeung speaks with economy expert Brianne Foley
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March 01, 2024
Miyazaki’s perfect blend of magic and existentialism –The Boy And The Heron Review
Beautiful both visually and story-wise, The Boy And The Heron is a must-watch. It is suitable for every age as almost everyone will find something in the film to relate to
18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on tantalising cinematography in an emotive animated film
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March 01, 2024
10 things you should know about Nepal
From festivals and culture to world heritage sites and areas of natural beauty, teenage journalists in Kathmandu each share one fact about their home country Nepal
Teenagers aged 11-18 from the Mountain Children Home share the beauty of Nepal
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March 01, 2024
Why growing up as a young woman is scary: A teen’s perspective from Poland
Despite the global progress made in women’s rights in the past few decades, Poland still has a long way to go. The country’s strict abortion laws, gender pay gap and prescribed lifestyle for a woman’s future fills me with fear
17 year-old Maria Mitko on the daunting reality of womanhood
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February 23, 2024
Simple, sexy film that brings new life to the rom-com genre. Anyone But You Review
Charming leads, an intriguing set-up and a “parent trap” meets enemies-to-lovers trope, what more is there to wish for?
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the explosive chemistry of the newest grand rom-com
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February 16, 2024
Students and teachers fight back against the ‘library selection rubric’ in a Texas public school
Teachers and students in the school district have spoken out against the school board’s decision to filter the literature kept in classroom libraries after complaints from parents
16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores book banning in the United States
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February 16, 2024
Lights out: Broadway shows close prematurely
Since its post-pandemic return, Broadway has struggled to reach its previous levels of success. Closely tied to tourism numbers, theatres are still unable to fill seats and shows are suffering from early closures
17 year-old Alia Saphier reports on the decline of new acclaimed theatre
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February 09, 2024
‘Never-ending search for the snooze button’. Can AI replace humans in writing poetry?
Long considered one of the purest forms of human emotion and expression, will AI be able to produce works that resonate on a profoundly human level like poetry should? Finnish author Jukka Aalho may hold the answer
17 year-old Justin Sau analyses computer-generated poems
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February 02, 2024
What’s the whole buzz about? The Grammy Awards explained
As we approach the 66th edition of the Grammy Awards, held annually by the Recording Academy, here are the things you need to know to fully appreciate the upcoming ceremony
15 year-old Klara Hammudeh looks under the red carpet of Recording Academy awards
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January 26, 2024
The rise of careless consumerism among young people
Rapid consumerism fueled by short trend cycles are promoting an unsustainable mindset among the young that clothes are temporary and easily replaceable, ignoring the environmental crisis
17 year-old Shriya Kalluri explores the link between social media and fast-fashion
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January 26, 2024
Unattainable ‘angel status’. Patriarchy still skews the narratives of women in power
From fashion breakdowns to dating habits, selective media reporting has long attempted to reduce women in the spotlight to harmful gender stereotypes’
17 year-old Alia Saphier critiques the media’s continual repression of women
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January 26, 2024
Let’s take music seriously. It’s not a soundtrack for picking vegetables at a supermarket
Have we lost the ability to appreciate music? The greatest talent which humanity ever had to offer is now persistently used to assist everyday activities
15 year-old Klara Hammudeh shares ways to better immerse yourself in music
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January 26, 2024
Why I hated Poor Things but will watch it again and again
The star-studded cast movingly invokes the sense of the uncanny, something that lies at the heart of this modern ‘Frankenstein’ tale
17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on female depictions in Yorgos Lanthimos’s film
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January 19, 2024
Doja Cat’s ‘devilish’ controversy. A marketing move or reason for concern?
Doja Cat finds herself amidst whispers of a supposed ‘deal with the devil’. Should her actions be perceived as a deliberate marketing strategy to keep the spotlight burning or as signs of troubling mental health concerns?
14 year-old Sofia Vorobei explores the corrupt nature of fame
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January 12, 2024
Has the movie industry transformed into a risk-averse machine?
As the tsunami of reboots and remakes continues to threaten to overwhelm us, it's crucial to recognize the consequences of this trend. While nostalgia can provide moments of joy and familiarity, it should not be a substitute for genuine creativity
16 year-old Justin Sau criticises the culture of remakes
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January 12, 2024
Messy biopic where only battlefields shine: Napoleon review
Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby put on grand performances that are still not enough to save the film from coming across as bloated
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest box office disappointment
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January 05, 2024
She is your mirror, and both of you will mirror our reality: May December review
Netflix dropped its Oscar contender, an eerie drama by Todd Haynes which delivers a slow-burner that hits you in the guts
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the masterfully crafted new film
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December 22, 2023
Why is Spotify Wrapped such a buzz?
Generation Z has a strong affinity for Spotify Wrapped – a tailored compilation of user statistics for the year, including top artists and total listening minutes – as it reflects their “musical journey” throughout the year
16 year-old Maria Mitko interviews young people about the viral marketing campaign
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December 22, 2023
A film equivalent to a long hug encapsulates the Christmas spirit. The Holdovers review
The story of three unlikely individuals finding a family bond in uncertain circumstances is medicine for a broken heart. And with its emotional warmth and sentimentally cheerful ending, ‘The Holdovers’ still touches on severe topics of grief and depression - and does that quite well
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on a future Christmas classic
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December 15, 2023
“We aren’t faking it.” Tic sufferer warns over condition’s representation on social media
From mediaeval peasants plagued by an uncontrollable urge to dance, to nuns experiencing mass possessions in convents - mass sociogenic illnesses (MSIs) have played a role in history and can also be seen in the present day
16 year-old Ananya Prasanna reports on mass social media-induced illnesses (MSMIs)
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December 15, 2023
Rap music on trial. Debate resurfaces over evidence ruling in Young Thug case
The issue of using rap lyrics as evidence in court has recently been reignited by such a high-profile case. Young Thug and his legal team assert that the use of lyrics in court is prejudicial and could affect his right to freedom of speech
17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz reports on using art as confession
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December 08, 2023
Don't just diversify the curriculum, decolonise it
The diversified curriculum does not challenge societal power structures which narrow the dominant perspective through which we view the world. It is imperative that we do not stop here
Sanaa Pasha on the diluted version of colonial history in education
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December 08, 2023
Fast fashion’s ugly secret. Numerous brands in legal trouble over intellectual property theft
The fast fashion industry has long been infamous for its exploitation of vulnerable labourers, waste production, and environmental degradation. More recently, however, intellectual property scandals have also mounted against some notable fashion corporations
16 year-old Tanya Chi reports on independent designers’ accusations
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December 01, 2023
Perhaps it is time to cancel ‘cancel culture’
To many, ‘cancel culture’ and the act of boycotting a public figure, has become an important tool of social justice. However, ‘cancel culture’ prioritises public condemnation without fostering constructive dialogue or providing opportunities for redemption
17 year-old Megan Lee on the social justice of "cancelling"
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December 01, 2023
How social media influencers reshaped the global marketing landscape
Social media influencers have become crucial drivers of the economy, and their contribution to the global market cannot be ignored. With the rise of social media, e-commerce has taken on a whole new level of significance
18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on the rising value of e-commerce
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November 24, 2023
An unexpected ally: how social media could revitalize reading culture
It's high time we put down the pitchforks and extinguish the torches we've been brandishing at TikTok and Instagram. As it turns out, amidst the sea of hashtags and memes, a world of literary innovation awaits
16 year-old Justin Sau explores the boom in reading culture
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November 17, 2023
Destruction in devotion: how do cults weaponise human vulnerability?
The ambiguity of an ‘end to all’ has been used as a form of exploitation to keep people fearful and submissive – and Charles Manson’s “Helter Skelter” prophecy, a vision heralding an apocalyptic race war, might serve as an example
16 year-old Camilla Savelieva explores how cult leaders use fear to exert power
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November 10, 2023
Is Hollywood saved now the writers’ strike has ended?
Strikes of actors and writers have cost the industry over $6 billion. After all the developments, many teenagers who dream of putting their stories on the big screens began to wonder: is entering the writing industry a good choice?
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the aftermath of the writer’s strike
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November 03, 2023
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour breaks all records. The phenomenon of the star explained
In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, where stars are rising and falling in the blink of an eye, one name has consistently defied the odds: Taylor Swift. What is the secret behind a country girl who not only stays afloat but continues to be on top of one of the most competitive industries in the world?
14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the origins of America’s superstar
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October 27, 2023
It’s Haunting. Killers Of The Flower Moon review
Released last week, ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’ delivers an ultimate epic of love, betrayal, and the nature of evil - unveiling this dark, twisted chapter in American history
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin praises new film from Martin Scorsese
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October 20, 2023
Why the hell is Holden Caulfield the most relatable character I’ve ever read about?
It is extremely hard to know exactly how we wish our lives to turn out at sixteen. Holden is a byword for this identity crisis, reflecting my experience having contradictory feelings running through at such a pace that I feel trapped and unable to process it all
16 year-old Maria Mitko watches her reflection in Salinger’s famous novel
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October 13, 2023
‘When I am an old woman I shall wear purple, with a red hat that doesn’t go and doesn’t suit me’
The poem represents the freedom of being old and the message of seeing ageing as a positive experience - something to cherish - which has resonated with me since I first heard it at barely five years-old
17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz wins the Harbinger Prize in Photography
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October 06, 2023
‘It’s like an addiction’ — American teenagers fall victim to online sports gambling apps
Whether through indirect or direct means, teenagers are being influenced to pursue online sports gambling. The rapidly growing industry is preying on those with underdeveloped minds, increasing profits to the detriment of future generations
17 year-old Arham Shah wins the Harbinger Prize in Economics
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September 08, 2023
Dying languages: Cultures are being eradicated in silence
Language is often reduced to a tool for basic communication, neglecting its human and cultural significance. Global warming and urbanisation are forcing linguistically diverse communities to migrate, assimilate, and abandon their ancestral tongues
Sophie Yu on the fight to save forgotten languages
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August 25, 2023
Why was 'Secret Invasion' such a flop?
The biggest disappointment is that for a show with shape-shifting aliens it has absolutely no mystery, which is so needed here. 'Secret Invasion' does a lot of telling and not a lot of showing, which essentially comes back to its cheapness
17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the wasted potential of the Marvel star-studded series
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August 14, 2023
How samurai traditions live on through Kendo - a sport rooted in ancient Japanese culture
“The cultural and ceremonial aspects of Kendo hold great importance. Kendo represents not only a sport or technique but also embodies a martial art rooted in rich history and tradition. It reflects the enduring spirit passed down through generations”
15 year-old Noah Saphier shares valuable lessons from Kato Sensei
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August 13, 2023
Contested artefacts from the British Museum: 7 things you need to know
In recent years, many countries where these artefacts originated have become more vocal in calling for their return, arguing that the objects were taken unethically and without consent
16 year-old Justin Sau outlines the appeals for repatriation
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August 11, 2023
To solve US alcoholism youth should be drinking sooner. Here’s why
From completely banning alcohol to lowering the legal drinking age to 18, to raising it again to 21, nothing seems to solve US alcoholism. I feel that creating any type of concrete barrier creates desire for youth, it creates a natural incentive to want it more
15 year-old Noah Saphier on the legal age of drinking
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August 09, 2023
Oppenheimer review: Three-hour long biopic nothing short of mind-blowing
In unity with cinematography, sound design, and the soundtrack Nolan creates a horrifically immersive experience which controls every atom in the viewer's body
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Nolan’s newest blockbuster
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July 28, 2023
Barbie review: A must-watch, the allegedly ‘anti-men’ pink extravaganza will make you cry
Barbie is a must-watch for everyone, for young and for old, for women and men. It’s a beautiful story with a powerful message which will leave you thinking about your own experiences and understanding of the patriarchy and how it in fact isn’t about horses
17 year-old Sofia Radysh reviews the record-breaking box office film
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July 21, 2023
Days that marked Afghan girls’ lives
There are days in everyone’s lives that they mark the most regardless of being good or bad. Five students of the journalism learning project at Harbingers’ Magazine – Shanhaza (17), Swita (16), Zainab (13), Naziya (13) and Zohra (17) – interviewed each other to find out about the days that impacted them the most
13-17 year-old OXSFJ and LEARN Afghan students share their life experiences
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July 21, 2023
Actors joined striking writers to save Hollywood as we know it
With actors’ walk-outs – including at the notable premiere of Oppenheimer in London, where Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, and Florence Pugh all left the theatre – and arrested productions, the entertainment industry is suffering colossal stock price losses
17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on the ongoing strike
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July 14, 2023
'Barbenheimer': is this the most important box office battle in a decade
Barbie is winning, and it is hardly surprising. After all, one film is about dealing with mortality, the sense of self purpose, and challenging American elites, and the other one is a historical thriller titled Oppenheimer
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on ‘counterprogramming’ movie marketing
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July 14, 2023
Rooney’s debut is a must-read for young people. Conversations with Friends review
Sally Rooney did a fantastic job levelling with the reader on many personal, almost gentle levels. This makes this book a must-read for young people – teenagers, those in their 20s or even 30s – who want a light read that also touches you and makes you ask questions you never thought would occur
17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reminds of Rooney’s 2017 masterpiece
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July 14, 2023
Lewis Capaldi talks mental health after Glastonbury stage Tourette’s
The Someone You Loved artist faced a moment of crisis when performing at Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom
14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the lesson learnt at Glastonbury
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June 30, 2023
A story that will keep you webbed to the seat. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse review
The sequel takes everything the audience loved about the first Spider-Verse movie and turns it up a notch – if not more
17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe
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June 30, 2023
Auto-tune overload. Aren’t we sacrificing musicality for so-called perfection?
Excessive use of auto-tune technology, especially when employed to distort the voice during a live performance, sparks debates about authenticity and emotional connection with the audience
14 year-old Sofia Vorobei takes the side of human imperfection
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June 30, 2023
Rare glimpse into 21st century politics of sex and desire. The Right to Sex review
Amia Srinivasan’s collection of six nonfiction essays is an impressive debut. Writing about rape culture, student-professor relationships, prostitution, and pornography, Srinivasan is unafraid to linger near the precipice of taboo
17 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews the 2022 Orwell Prize shortlisted book
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June 23, 2023
Animal testing made its way onto the big screen. It may be a sign of change
Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 3 is more than a great movie - it also offers insight into cruelty disguised as animal testing
17 year-old Sofia Radysh on animal testing
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June 23, 2023
The art of ‘bad’ art: on Tracey Emin’s My Bed
In Tracey Emin’s My Bed, we realize that art is about expression, meaning, and the authenticity of human emotion. In using such an evocative installation, Emin not only illustrates the active and almost rebellious voice she takes on as an artist but emphasizes the beauty in chaos
17 year-old Megan Lee explores the art of confession
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June 09, 2023
Should English Literature be replaced by Global Literature in schools?
In our increasingly diverse and globalized society, the Western canon seems not only restrictive but also exclusionary, calling into question whether the subject of English Literature should be replaced by Global Literature to best reflect the status quo at hand
Megan Lee considers the value behind teaching literature
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May 19, 2023
‘Quantity of good Ukrainian music has risen on an aspirational scale’
“We need to win the war and start rebuilding. Not only buildings and infrastructure but also our culture. Because there will come a moment of exhaustion after such a long fight, but we still need not forget that there is a future”
16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews 19-year-old musician and producer Bogdan “SadSvit” Rozvadovskyi
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April 14, 2023
Ukrainian music is much more than ‘sharovarshcyna’. Meet four ‘hidden gems’ bands and artists
The world is now starting to realise how unique and vast the Ukrainian culture is. With music being a major part of it, we, the Ukrainians hope that soon we will no longer be prisoners of the ‘traditional folk’ paradigm - that Ukrainian music ceases to be.
16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko shares four up-and-coming Ukrainian artists
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April 07, 2023
Navalny should not have been a winner of an Oscar award
This movie being recognised and celebrated is unacceptable, no matter how good the quality of it might be. Such distinguished organisations with influential platforms like the Academy should consider the context of the movie before representing it
16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the political messages of award-winning films
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March 24, 2023
Babylon’s storytelling of early Hollywood failed to hit the mark - it instead made me gag
While I am not a particular fan of graphic and aggressive movies, I was excited for Babylon. So obviously, my expectations were high, and I decided to throw away my initial biases against Babylon and its gruesomeness. So what did this three-hour long extravaganza provide me with? Nothing but disappointment.
Sofia Radysh's take on the all-star Hollywood film Babylon
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March 17, 2023
How political art is used to influence people
Art, as a reflection of an artist’s view of the world, is influenced by the events happening around, including politics and wars. And just like art, propaganda is also influenced by them. Propaganda, as it is known, is the dissemination of information to influence public opinion
16 year-old Kateryna Kalyniuk outlines the history of propaganda
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March 09, 2023
Are the Peranakans a part of Singapore’s past or a heritage shaping my life choices?
As I deepened my research into Peranakans, I began to realise that my ancestors far exceed their reputation as creators of imaginative cuisine and eclectic architecture. In fact, the culture not only shapes the Singapore we see today but has largely influenced the choices I have made in life
16 year-old Jinn Ong inquires whether and how it is possible to be Peranakan in the 21st century
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December 26, 2022
Regardless of the production, beauty overrules iniquity. On religion and ethics in Tosca
“The arch of the whole opera questions what religion, spirituality and Catholic hypocrisy are,” said Michael Gieleta when on the opening night, I spoke to him about his production’s interpretation of Tosca’s religious themes. “This concerns Tosca herself, who drew moral superiority from murdering Scarpia and took her own life - two cardinal sins according to the Catholic Church teachings.”
Sophie Elliott investigates the famous opera
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December 07, 2022
(Un)Open art. Why is modern art so intimidating?
The feeling of misunderstanding art usually evolves from a lack of curated education. But if art is supposed to be free, should education truly play a crucial role in enjoying it?
Maria Chernova shares her opinion on the openness of art and closedness of art recipients.
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November 17, 2022
Art of forgetting and remembering. On Lithuania's path to the commemoration of Holocaust victims
Memory is by no means neutral, and the pain of it demands decision. To what extent should we remember at all? What does it mean to remember rightly? Is the idea of memory even possible?
17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on relations between art and history
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October 07, 2022
The Witcher - a feminist manifesto or a misogynistic tale?
Sapkowski’s saga is not only a fantasy tale - it is also a social commentary. That’s why the TV adaptation has brought into the limelight various types of discrimination, prejudice, and hate-rooted violence
Aleksandra Lasek inquires into the success of Yennefer of Vengerberg as a feminist role model
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October 03, 2022
How jokes on TikTok help Ukrainians
Even during the war, people of different ages can still have a sense of humour and make jokes - which is an essential part of Ukrainian culture
Maria Chernova discusses how jokes on TikTok are helping her and other Ukrainians during the war
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September 30, 2022
Herbal Insurgency: Wielding Knowledge to Heal and Harm Under Southern Enslavement
Through their knowledge of healing and harming, enslaved people were able to create small but vital spaces of healing and alternative power within the totalizing structures of Southern enslavement laws
William Derek Pacini examines the history of herbal expertise as a form of resistance and a means to freedom
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September 18, 2022
Art of humanity. Why Lithuanian Jews took part in the fight against apartheid in South Africa
Once kindness becomes prevalent, it appears to be spreading. Human relations develop as we experience the inevitability of life - whether it is peace or war, core human values remain the same. A formation of a crystal – I think of an artwork I saw in Kaunas, depicting the bonding of ions and atoms which make the crystal grow - is parallel to how human relations develop.
17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on the lesson from an art festival in Kaunas, Lithuania
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September 14, 2022
The Cupping Room
With the beans right in front of me, I could almost taste the coffee. The sweet and the tangy, the heavy notes and light texture barraging my nose. Tamie described to us the small yet complicated process of coffee roasting
16 year-old Christian Yeung takes a first step into the world of coffee culture, attending a roasting session at The Cupping Room
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September 12, 2022
INO’s Tosca: the aesthetics of agency
Tosca offers a compelling evaluation of the complexities of female agency. She is an immensely complicated character—both pious and charitable, but also jealous, impetuous, passionate, and artistic
16 year-old Sophie Elliott analyses the Irish National Opera’s performance of Tosca with the backdrop of its political roots
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August 23, 2022
The voice of fashion stands in solidarity with Ukraine
As we say in Ukraine: “everything will be Ukraine!”. And if so, everything and everyone – including the fashion industry – must admit its political side
Maria Rybak describes how the fashion industry responded to the war in Ukraine
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August 16, 2022
Norman Davies: In 1919, Soviet invasion bolstered Polish national identity. Now it happens in Ukraine
“In 1920, nobody, no experts, no generals gave Poland a chance. In February, no experts gave Ukrainians much of a chance. The Ukrainians captured Russian tanks where the men were dressed in parade uniforms”
An interview by 18 year-old Jeremi Kulczyk-Lubomirski and 16 year-old Maciej Cebula
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August 15, 2022
Bat girls for life? — Nothing about Batgirl said ‘cancel worthy’
Movies are not viewed as a piece of art anymore, they are investment assets. If something doesn't work out they can simply be dumped
16 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on what Batgirl’s cancellation could mean for the film industry
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August 11, 2022
United shock, Jesus to flourish under Arteta
Anticipation for the Premier League has now kicked off, with devoted fans eager to find out how their team will do this season
16 year-old Timur Boranbayev gives his predictions for the upcoming Premiership season
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August 10, 2022
Ersatz Austen of cheap laughs and romance. Persuasion review
The greatest failing of Netflix's film is that it neither commits to being a faithful adaptation of Austen’s regency, nor a modern rendering loosely based on original content
16 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews streaming giant's take on Austen’s classic novel
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August 08, 2022
Women’s Euro 2022, a success and an inspiration to the female youth
It is very refreshing to see how female sport is gaining more recognition and the respect it deserves. Women's football is the fastest growing sport in the UK, and it will be interesting to see how female athletes and sport will develop over the next decade
Timur and Sofiya report on public opinions towards Lionesses’ win in the final
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August 04, 2022
Cost of a trendy pup; the flat-faced issue explained
Humanity has been playing god and creating new breeds for a long time now, and the moment to take responsibility has arrived
16 year-old Sofia Radysh investigates the problems of Brachycephalic dogs
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July 18, 2022
A mirror to Britain’s homophobia. Joe Lycett: More, More, More! review
While this show’s comedy is structured to identify and poke fun at British conservative society, it is done so in a cheerful and carefree way which prevents the jokes from being destructive in any way
17 year-old Grace Whitehouse reviews Joe Lycett’s touring show
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July 17, 2022
Your first lesson in Swahili
My first language is Swahili - and today I will share with you some basic words of this language.
14 year-old Lydia Gaspar introduces her native language
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June 23, 2022
Invest in good mathematicians. Weapons of Math Destruction review
Ill-conceived algorithms are strengthening injustice, inequality and prejudice across law enforcement, education, labour, banking and housing.
Natasha Banga reviews Cathy O’Neil’s book
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June 22, 2022
A thought-provoking experience. For better or worse. How to Blow Up a Pipeline review
In his 2020 book a leading Swedish climate activist since the 1990s condemns the nonviolent methods mobilised in the climate movement by claiming they only promote passivity—instead, offering us a historical argument, Malm persuasively argues for a more aggressive and confrontational approach.
Sophie Elliott reviews Andreas Malm’s How to Blow Up a Pipeline
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March 05, 2022
Entertaining and engaging, yet with a moral dilemma. The Cheese and the Worms review
You may rightfully be thinking, "Cheese? Worms? Millers? Sixteenth-century? Really?” I also have little interest in the Fruili region of Italy, especially in the 1500s - yet this book had me hooked from the very first page.
Marsi Hadijeva revisits Carlo Ginzburg’s 1976 classic
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March 04, 2022
Exceptional writing, but stories are hit or miss. On A Registry of My Passage Upon the Earth
Two years since the publication of his last book, The Winter Soldier, psychiatrist Daniel Mason returns with his latest collection of human survival stories.
Noemi Elliott reviews a collection of short stories
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February 09, 2022
Spot-on image of how Gen Z tends to cope by taking everything as a joke. Don’t look up review
The planet-killing comet is quite obviously today’s global warming climate crisis. The scientific reasoning is there, the facts are there, the evidence is there - and yet, many still refuse to believe in this pressing issue.
Sofiya Suleimenova reviews Adam McKay’s political satire
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February 08, 2022
A delightful read for any Austen fan. Jane Austen, Early and Late review
The degree of insight makes a joy solely reserved for Austen fans. Others would likely find the parallels between Northanger Abbey and Persuasion tiresome - although I must confess I never knew that Northanger Abbey contains 24 instances of “persuasion,” only eight fewer than the 32 in Persuasion!
Noemi Elliott reviews Freya Johnston’s book
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February 02, 2022
‘Pay me the respect due’. Sidney Poitier as a symbol of perseverance
Barack Obama, who awarded Poiter the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, wrote: “Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomised dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors.”
Sofiya Suleimenova reflects on ethics lessons from the late American movie giant
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January 26, 2022
Darkness, a poem Wisława Szymborska did not write
A pastiche is a work of art that aims to imitate the style of another work or artist. It is a device regularly used in many different mediums, including literature, music, and visual art. For example, Shakespeare’s famous balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet has been a theme for endless pastiches - it was also arguably the inspiration for the happy ending scene in Pretty Woman.
Daria Badger interviews Polish pastiche poetry writer Grzegorz Uzdański - and translates one of his works to English
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January 24, 2022
Every bit as real that the reader hopes the story were pure fiction. The Fortune Men review
Nearing the 70th anniversary of the court murder commited in Wales, we realize that not much has changed these past decades.
Noemi Elliott reviews Nadifa Mohamed’s novel
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September 19, 2021
Nature and Privation in Three Romani Poets
The generation born after the war was raised amidst the turmoil of social transformation, evolving governmental edicts, and the challenges of dwelling among often unwelcoming ethnic Hungarians. The poetry of these postwar Roma poets reflects these challenges.
Noemi Elliot on Roma poets and their artistic sensibilities 

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