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The Student News Site of Biola University

The Chimes

The Student News Site of Biola University

The Chimes

The Student News Site of Biola University

The Chimes

“Cuties” stirs controversy

“Cuties” stirs controversy
A questionable movie plot and execution shroud an important message about cultural sexism.
Emily Coffey, Managing Editor September 19, 2020

“Cuties” was released in France on Aug. 19 and internationally on Sept. 9 on Netflix. What followed was a firestorm of political tweets, articles and posts arguing whether the film crossed the line of child sexualization, or if it shone a brutally honest light on the truth of cultural sexism and...

Remembering Chadwick Boseman

Photo Courtesy of IMDb.
Though Boseman’s career has come to an untimely close, his impact continues both on-screen and off.
Emily Coffey, Managing Editor September 5, 2020

Actor Chadwick Boseman spent his career working on many important films, fighting for diversity and rising up in the Hollywood ranks. However, he was more than just an actor, as he also helped to cheer up children battling cancer through the “Make a Wish” program. Diagnosed with stage III colon cancer...

The most underrated films to stream during quarantine

The most underrated films to stream during quarantine
Catch these must-see flicks on Hulu and Netflix.
Emily Coffey, Kayla Santos, and Lauren McBride April 30, 2020

“Blue Valentine” (Netflix) A hidden gem starring Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams, “Blue Valentine” follows the story of a married couple whose relationship is caught in a downward spiral. The film employs beautiful color symbolism as the scenes jump back and forth in time, displaying the...

“Onward” falls short of expectations

“Onward” falls short of expectations
Pixar’s latest film is heartwarming but fails to innovate.
Lauren McBride, Senior Copy Editor March 10, 2020

Many Pixar fans have held high expectations for the studio since recent hits such as “Toy Story 4” and “Incredibles 2.” However, Pixar’s latest film “Onward” does not live up to the hype. A conventional fantasy story, the film lacks depth and fails to resonate with audiences. Though director...

Audiences connect with animals in “The Call of the Wild”

Audiences connect with animals in “The Call of the Wild”
The beloved Jack London tale is brought to life through computer-generated imagery.
Lauren McBride, Senior Copy Editor February 25, 2020

Heartwarming, imaginative and timeless, Jack London’s classic tale finally found its way to the box office. “The Call of the Wild” film adaptation brings the 1903 story to life through expressive animal animation, allowing the audience to truly connect with the protagonist Buck as he finds his...

“A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon” is a fun adventure for all ages

“A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon” is a fun adventure for all ages
Aardman’s newest stop-motion adventure brings great visuals and an enjoyable story.
Sammy Newcomer February 18, 2020

Britain's favorite stop-motion sheep gets a sci-fi spin in a new Netflix original feature film that  follows Shaun, Bitzer the dog and the whole gang of farm animals as they find Lula, a mysterious encounter of the third kind. From there, the animals must escape countless obstacles—the government,...

“The Gentlemen” flaunts elaborate twists

“The Gentlemen” flaunts elaborate twists
Guy Ritchie’s latest film is unique, yet overly complex.
Lauren McBride, Senior Copy Editor January 29, 2020

From live-action Disney remakes to historical crime dramas, Guy Ritchie has a wide variety of stories under his belt. He makes his 2020 film debut with “The Gentlemen,” a unique story that will either be a hit or a miss for audiences. Although it is packed with action, advanced humor and plenty of...

“Dolittle” fails to entertain audiences

“Dolittle” fails to entertain audiences
Although it contains big names, “Dolittle” falls flat in both humor and story.
Lauren McBride, Senior Copy Editor January 21, 2020

Since its release, “Dolittle” has attracted a wide range of audiences, including animal lovers, Robert Downey Jr. lovers and lovers of the original 1998 film. However, these key elements were not enough to keep viewers engaged. The intention is clear, but the film falls flat in both comedic and narrative...

“Queen & Slim” confronts police brutality in an unexpected way

The film “Queen & Slim” dives into the the societal issue of police brutality.
Despite some pacing issues, the film dazzles with its main performances and gripping story.
Chris Charpentier, Staff Writer December 3, 2019

“Queen & Slim” stars Daniel Kaluuya and Jodie Turner-Smith, a couple whose first date goes awry when they are stopped by a hot-headed cop. After shooting the cop in self-defense, the couple is forced to run and evade the law. From the get-go, the topic of police brutality has turned many people...

“Ford v Ferrari” races to success

“Ford v Ferrari” races to success
The film adaptation of a true story is entertaining and worthwhile.
Lauren McBride, Senior Copy Editor November 19, 2019

Smashing box office rankings for its opening weekend, “Ford v Ferrari” is already a rare instant hit. Director James Mangold brings the true story of automotive designer Carroll Shelby and British race car driver Ken Miles to life, giving them an inspiring layer of emotional depth while presenting...

“Last Christmas” shows Asians are heartthrobs too

Kate, portrayed by Emilia Clarke, and Tom, portrayed Henry Golding, strike up a unique relationship, where they often explore the hidden spots of London.
Henry Golding shines in a role atypical for Asians in Hollywood.
Kayla Santos, Arts & Entertainment Editor November 16, 2019

(This story was originally published in print on Nov. 14, 2019). ‘Tis the season to bundle up with a warm mug of hot cocoa and endless romantic comedies. As December quickly approaches, people are finding any reason to indulge in Hallmark films and Christmas playlists. Those who have already begun...

Theater appreciation creates live connection

Theater appreciation creates live connection
Theater may be a bit odd, but it is a unique art form and everyone should enjoy it.
Marc DeJager, Staff Writer (Fall 2019) November 13, 2019

When I was a freshman, theater was the first extracurricular I really dedicated time to. I was cast in a Spring 2017 production, and I have been deeply involved ever since. I learned countless personal lessons throughout my time working in the department. I cannot thank the Theatre 21 community enough...