Showing posts with label Samantha Latting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Samantha Latting. Show all posts

A Look At Emblem3's New Album, Nothing To Lose


I have been an Emblem3 fan since their very first X Factor audition. They performed an original song entitled "Sunset Blvd" (which is on their debut album!), and they killed it. They were adorable, sounded awesome and got everyone in the room excited.

I loved every performance Emblem3 did while on the show. No, they didn’t win-- that was Tate Stevens, who happens to be from my hometown (no big deal). However, they still got a record deal, and they recently dropped their debut album. Of course I downloaded it the very first day it came out.

Their debut album Nothing To Lose is just so much fun. The album is an interesting mix of pop, hip hop and reggae sounds, and it’s chock full of clever lyrics, which I am a sucker for. They have a handful of pop culture references in their lyrics, and one of my favorite examples is in the title track for the album. One lyric reads, “you won’t be singing break up songs like that Taylor chick.” 


Brothers Wesley and Keaton Stromberg and Drew Chadwick might look like a traditional boy band, but they’re not. The boys are more than that, and so is their music. They have a hand in writing their own music; it’s not just songs presented to them by the label.

You can find Emblem3 on tour with Selena Gomez this fall. Selena is a best friend to Demi Lovato, who was arguably the judge who was the hardest on the boys during last season of The X Factor. But the boys took Demi’s constructive criticism in stride. They always seemed so appreciative to just be a part of it all.

If you want to check out a couple of songs before you commit to the whole album, I would suggest starting with "3000 Miles," "XO," "Spaghetti" or "Sunset Blvd."

By: Samantha Latting | Images: 1, 2

"Pretty Little Liars" Style Steal: Aria Montgomery

Image Source

If I had to describe Aria Montgomery’s style, I would say it was eclectic, unexpected and just plain weird. However, that being said there’s something intriguing about the way this liar dresses, and I’m going to try to help you steal her style.

As I said before, Aria’s style is kind of unexpected, so it’s difficult to pick staple pieces. Instead, I’m going to get you started by picking out an outfit I think fits Aria’s unique standards.

I saw this vertical stripe illusion dress from Wet Seal and immediately envisioned Miss Montgomery herself rocking it.


The dress was a simple pick, but then I tried to imagine what kind of crazy shoes Aria would rock in this situation. These Steve Madden combat boots definitely seem fitting. Now, it’s not a pairing I would usually make, but hey, you’re trying to dress like Aria, not this CGM columnist.
Image Source

I think what this outfit needs to be pulled together is accessories. Aria has been known to rock the clutch, so you should too! Check out this finger studded clutch by Natasha Couture.


I think Aria’s style motivation is to just find things she likes, no matter how unconventional, and rock them with confidence. Just keep that in mind, and you’ll be golden.

By: Samantha Latting

Finn Hudson's 5 Best "Glee" Moments


As the days go by, it isn’t any less shocking or heartbreaking to me that Cory Monteith lost his battle to addiction and, consequently, his life. As a "Glee" fan I took the news particularly hard. Not only did the world lose Cory, the world lost Finn Hudson. Both Cory and Finn possessed such lovable qualities.

Cory’s smile was sweet, genuine and contagious and, since I didn’t actually know him, I’m mourning his loss the only way I know how as a gleek—I’m re-watching some of my favorite Finn moments.

1. Finn sings “Just The Way You Are” for Kurt. This has always been one of my favorite Glee moments. It’s just so sweet, and it’s Finn’s way of telling Kurt “You’re my brother and I accept you just the way you are.” Watch it here.

2. “Stay away from my future wife!” Okay... so maybe Finn didn’t handle this situation with Brody as maturely as he could have, but he loved Rachel and wanted to protect her. Super sweet! Watch it here.

Image Source

3. “I’m setting you free.” When Finn calls off the wedding so Rachel can go away to New York is probably one of the most romantic scenes I can recall from the show. I cried when I first watched it, and I cry now. Watch it here.

4. Finn sings in the shower. This is the moment I fell in love with Finn Hudson. Mr. Schuester finds Finn singing in the shower after football practice and recruits him to join the Glee club. I think I love this scene because Finn didn’t even know he was any good. He was just singing for the love of singing. Watch it here.

5. Seeing stars. I couldn’t find a video to go along with this quote, but it’s now my favorite Finn moment, and I don’t think what he said could be even more perfect and healing for the situation at hand. Finn bought a star, and this is what he says to Rachel when she asks if he named it after her: “No, I thought about that, but then I named it Finn Hudson. Because there’s already a star named Rachel Berry, and she’s right here on earth, and she’s brighter than any of those stars up there. So I just wanted to make sure that whenever she feels lonely she can look up in the sky, and no matter where I am, she can know that I’m looking down on her.”

According to "Good Morning America," the cast will go back to work in August and Finn’s character will die in the third episode of the new season. However, after that the show will go on hiatus until they figure out how to go on.

By: Samantha Latting

"Pretty Little Liars" Style Steal: Hanna Marin

Image Source

Last week I told you how to look like a Hastings (if anyone can tell me how to get the grades of a Hastings, I’ll be waiting). This time around, I’m going to help you steal my favorite liar’s style.

Hanna Marin is by far my favorite liar. She’s hilarious, gorgeous and probably one of the most loyal people on the show (I say that in hopes that I’m not speaking too soon!).

I’ll be honest—Hanna’s style is a bit absurd for a high school student going to class, but I think that we college women can find an appropriate place to channel our inner Hanna, and here’s what you need to get started.

1. Dresses
But not just any dresses. Hanna’s dresses are always super gorgeous and look date ready for an impromptu night out with Caleb. Ya know… when she’s not getting run over by cars or spying on a potential A-Team member. High-low dresses are super in right now, so you can be sure Hanna would be all over it. I love this black and pink strapless from Wet Seal.


2. A Bold Jacket
One thing that I love about Hanna’s style is she’ll take a super girly piece and add some edge to it with a jacket or a blazer that you might not usually think to pair it with. What do I think Hanna would add with that high-low dress I picked out? This sleeveless studded blazer from Forever 21 just might do the trick.


3. Fabulous Shoes
Hanna is always rocking the heels, which is rather impressive since she seems to be on the run from A quite a bit. Hanna has been known to wear some outrageous shoes, but I’m trying to keep this realistic and Hanna-like, so you should give these Dolce Vita Tremor T-Strap Wedge’s a look over. You can get them at Urban Outfitters.


With these basic staples, and a few extra accessories (Hanna is always adding some jewelry to pull her look together), you’ll be looking as good as Hanna in no time. Maybe you’ll even snag your very own Caleb. I mean, a girl can dream, right?

By: Samantha Latting

"Pretty Little Liars" Style Steal: Spencer Hastings


After what felt like an eternity of waiting, "Pretty Little Liars" is back and inciting more questions than ever. I swear for every question the writers answer, they hit viewers with five more cliffhangers to drive us all crazy.

However, no matter how confused the show leaves me there is always one thing of I am sure: I want to raid the closet of all four liars. I know I’m not alone in this, so I’m going to give you the lowdown on how to steal the girls’ style — one liar at a time.

This week I’m starting with Spencer Hastings. She’s smart, sneaky and for some reason always looks like she’s ready for an impromptu run-in with very important people. But it’s Spencer, so there’s probably some logic behind that, don’t you think?

If you want to steal Spencer’s style there are a few key pieces that are a must!

1. Blazer
A super cute yet still sophisticated blazer. Like I said, Spencer always looks put together and what makes you look more put together than a blazer? You can dress them down by layering them over sundresses or you can dress up your favorite pair of jeans. The options are endless. I really love this open front peplum blazer from Charlotte Russe.


2. Dark denim skinnies 
Clad in a pair of super cute dark skinnies, Spencer Hastings is ready for anything A can throw at her. Personally, I love the Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans from Old Navy. Word of advice though; they run super small, so go up a size or two. To make these jeans even more Spencer-eqsue, add a skinny belt and a cuff to the bottom.



3. Oxfords
I am obsessed with oxfords and I think they scream ‘Spencer Hastings.’ They look good with a pair of skinny jeans or a pretty sundress. Check out this all lace pair by Steve Madden.



There is a lot more to a Spencer outfit than these three things, but I think if you start off with these staples you’ll be looking like you stepped out of Rosewood in no time!

By: Samantha Latting

White Hot Denim


White denim is here and I am on board—I love it. I’ve got jeans, crops and shorts in white. There are tons of ways to rock your white denim, and I’m here to help those who aren’t really sure how to make this trend your own.

White denim is a lot more versatile than you might think. Depending on what you pair it with, you can go from casual to a night downtown with your friends in a snap!

If I’m just running errands or working my part-time job at the mall, I like to pair my white denim with a blue denim or chambray button down and a pair of flats or sandals any color but white—you don’t want to over do it.

I love this dip-dye chambray top from Old Navy and these ZigiGirl sandals from Nordstrom, but there are tons of other options out there. Mix and match a few options, and find your own cute casual twist.



Want to dress up those white beauties for date night? Try a dressy colored top! The pants will really make it pop, and paired with some cool jewelry and wedges, you’ll be a hit.

This navy blue peplum top from Forever 21 is adorable and would look great paired with a white Peter Pearl Collar necklace, which College Gloss Mizzou has a DIY for you right here!


Don’t be afraid to rock the white pants, ladies. You’ll look great, and it’s a nice change from the blue jeans you’re used to wearing every day. However, there are a few important key things to keep in mind.

  • Don’t wear them too tight. White denim that’s too tight will show every curve, and not in a good way. Make sure whatever pair you buy fits you well.
  • Be conscience of your panties. Before you go out in public make sure you can’t see your cute polka dot panties through your jeans.
  • Be confident. You look good, and you know you do, so you should own it.

By: Samantha Latting

Puppy Fever: Should You Give In?


Puppy fever can be strong and contagious. My Instagram, Twitter and Facebook feed have been full of puppy pictures lately. I feel like a lot of college students are taking the big step of being a pet owner. I’m one of those people—I gave in to puppy fever and am now the proud doggy mommy of a 5 ½-month-old bundle of joy named Ringo.

I don’t at all regret my decision to bring Ringo home, but now that I’ve had him for a few months I’ve realized there are a lot of things that I didn’t consider before I got him. I knew it would be a lot of responsibility, but I didn’t really know until I brought him home. The point of this article is in no way to deter college students from becoming pet owners. This is simply to make you aware of some of the obstacles and responsibilities you may not have considered.

1. Are your roommates on board?
My roommates were pretty excited about me bringing a puppy home, but I know that sometimes he drives them nuts. Before you bring your puppy home make sure you all agree on assigning responsibilities and remind them of how much work and patience raising a puppy is.

2. Do you have the money to bring home a puppy? 
I don’t even want to think about all the money I have spent since I’ve gotten Ringo, and I didn’t even have to pay to adopt him—my sister’s dog had puppies. You need to buy certain supplies to get started (kennel, leash, food/water bowl, toys, etc.) The vet fees for vaccinations aren’t cheap either—and it takes multiples visits. You may also want to think about whether or not your landlord charges a pet deposit.

3. Do you have to the time that a puppy needs and deserves?
It’s obvious that training a puppy takes a lot of time, but it goes beyond that. Your puppy needs you to be home sometimes. In college you generally don’t have a backyard and have to kennel your puppy while you’re gone, and I feel guilty leaving my puppy in there for long periods of time so sometimes that means dropping by the house to take him for a walk or stretch his legs before I have to leave again.

4. Are you patient enough?
I never knew a cute little thing could test my patience so much. Puppies try to chew on everything from your favorite shoes to your hair (yes, your hair). You need to understand that your puppy is a baby and needs time to learn but that he also needs your guidance—it’s a delicate balance.

5. If you go home for the summer are your parents cool with your new family member?
Okay, so I’m a little hypocritical on this one. Originally my parents told me I couldn’t bring another dog home (we already had two), but when my sister’s dog had puppies I couldn’t resist, and I persuaded them after showing them pictures chocked full of puppy-infused adorableness.


Bringing home a puppy can be challenging, to say the least, but it can also be very rewarding. Sure, my little guy can drive me nuts, but when he masters a new command or crawls up next to me on the couch and falls asleep it’s all worth it. I don’t think I’ve ever done something as rewarding as caring for another living creature. Plus, look at how cute he is—how could I not love him?

By: Samantha Latting

Get Hot Hair Without the Heat!

Image Source

I don’t know about you, but the thought of straightening or curling my hair in the humid summertime heat makes me absolutely cringe. Today I spent 45 minutes straightening my thick hair just to immediately put it in a ponytail thanks to the instantaneous frizzing that occurred when I was done. I thought there has to be a way to make your hair look cute in the summertime without using heat—and there is.

1. Wear your hair natural—kind of. I cannot just let my hair air dry and feel comfortable going out in public. My natural hair has a mind of its own—it waves, curls and frizzes. Luckily I found a couple products to tame the mess. Straight out of the shower, I brush out my hair and work some argan oil through it. Any will work, but my favorite is FX Moroccan Moisture Argan Oil. Then, I let my hair air dry slightly before adding Victoria Secret’s So Sexy Soft & Tousled Wave-enhancing Spray. It usually takes two to three applications, but it’s the first wave-enhancing product that I have found to work on my hair!




2. Pick your favorite style of bun and rock it. There are so many options for buns. You have the sock bun, the messy bun, the topknot and the bow bun. Play around with different buns and find one that works for you. I usually opt for the messy bun, and I get more compliments on that 5-minute-do than when I actually put in effort. My method is simple: shower, brush out your hair, put your hair in an upside down bun and then simply tuck the lose pieces back into the bun. There you have it: Sammie’s Messy Bun.


3. Utilize the braid. There are quite a few options here: You can side braid, French braid or fishtail braid. If you don’t know how to do these there are plenty of YouTube tutorials to help you out. You can even combine the braid with other hairstyles. Personally, I like to braid my bangs back and throw the rest in a bun.


I know there are lots of options out there on YouTube or Pinterest for no heat hairstyles. Although I haven’t had much success with some of them because of my thick hair, I definitely encourage you to experiment and see what works best for you!

Do you know of other easy-to-do no heat hairstyles? How about no heat hairstyles for other hair types? Spill your secrets in the comments!

By: Samantha Latting

Music Review: Cody Fry


My newest musical obsession happened as a total accident. Cody Fry is a touring band member for Ben Rector. Fry has been a long time fan of Ben Rector and said that playing as a part of his band is somewhat surreal, but amazing.

I attended the show with no knowledge of anyone there except Ben Rector. Now, I would never in a million years wish sickness on Rector but last Saturday he was (yet still sounded phenomenal) and had to step off stage and asked Fry to step in. I am so grateful that he did.

The moment was unexpected for Fry, too. When I asked him about being put on the spot he said, “[it] was equal-parts excitement and panic. However, as soon as I started playing, the crowd's response was so overwhelmingly positive; the whole thing just felt second nature. I was blown away by the audience response to my tunes.”

Fry played a couple of original songs and a cover of one of my all time favorite songs, "Blackbird" by The Beatles. I had recorded The Beatles cover on my phone and the number of times I watched it in the days following the concert was so absurd I went to iTunes and downloaded Fry’s album, Audio:Cinema, without hesitation.

I’ve got to say I have zero regrets. I listened to the 8-track album six times the first day I got it. I was able to sing along by the end of the night. I decided to look through the digital booklet that came with the album and learned Fry is more than just a beautiful voice—he writes, plays guitar, piano and the accordion. I’ll stop there but you get the point; he is not a one trick pony.

Fry isn’t a newbie to the biz. When he was still in high school The Grammy Foundation put him on stage to sing and play alongside some people you may have heard of like Kanye West, John Legend and Gloria Estefan.

The album has the singer-songwriter feel to it that I love. You can tell when an artist feels connected to their work because it makes you feel connected to it as well and Fry has achieved that with Audio:Cinema. My favorite tracks on the album are "Give Me Up," "Underground" and "Daydreaming."

By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Parental Guidance"



With finals in the not-so-distance future, I needed a feel good movie. "Parental Guidance" is my choice for this week.

The movie starts with very modern and helicopter-like parents Alice (Marisa Tomei) and Phil (Tom Everett Scott) who need to get away for a week so they call in the grandparents to watch the kids. Alice is reluctant to leave her parents, Artie (Billy Crystal) and Diane (Bette Midler), alone with her three kids.

Artie and Diane’s parenting tactics are very different than those of Alice and Phil. Grandma Diane desperately wants to earn the affections of grandkids, and Artie faces challenges when it comes to trying to follow his daughters rules for parenting her children.

Artie and Diane’s week with their grandkids was anything but perfect but it ultimately brought them all closer together, and Alice discovered that maybe her parents did know what they were doing after all.

"Parental Guidance" didn’t get the best reviews, but I really liked it. I found it endearing and found myself crying at the close of the movie. The movie has been accused of being predictable, but in my opinion, most of these types of movies are and I don’t think that’s always a bad thing.

I thought this movie was sweet, genuine, and it even had its humorous moments. Billy Crystal and Bette Midler had an interesting dynamic, and the grandkids were adorable and made me giggle. If you’re like me and into all that sappy feel good stuff I say ignore the critics and rent this one.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.

By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Silver Linings Playbook"


It was only a matter of time before I got my hands on another Jennifer Lawrence movie ... "Silver Linings Playbook?" Don’t mind if I do. The movie has won plenty of awards this season, and I think it deserves every one.

The cast itself is reason enough to go see this movie. You have Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Robert DeNiro, Jacki Weaver, Julia Stiles and Chris Tucker. The story starts with Pat Solitano (Cooper) moving back in with his parents (DeNiro and Weaver) after a stay in a mental hospital. All Pat wants to do is reconcile with his wife, Nikki (Brea Bee).

Pat meets Tiffany (Lawrence) while having dinner with an old friend and his wife. Tiffany has some problems of her own brought about by the loss of her husband. Tiffany recruits Pat to be her partner in a dance competition. Pat reluctantly agrees, and the only reason he does is because he thinks it’ll show Nikki that he’s changed and will bring her back to him.

Pat and Tiffany start to bond with one another and connect on a level they never expected, which complicates things. They both seem to create “silver linings” for one another.

This movie breaks the traditional ‘rom com’ mold and has a different humor about it. It’s kind of a subtle or dry humor—think "The Office" or "Juno." This film made me realize something important; finding someone who loves you doesn’t mean they fix your imperfections or eliminate your ‘crazy.’ It’s someone who is aware of all that and accepts you anyway.

This was probably my favorite movie of 2012, and I highly suggest checking this one out. Also, if anyone wanted to let me borrow the book this movie is based off of, you would make me one happy columnist. Just joking—but that would create a nice little silver lining in my day.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.

 By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Mizzou's Favorite Facebook Distractions


Odds are, you’ve spent a class period laughing and swooning over the many posts on the Mizzou Secret Admirers page; there are sweet posts, funny posts and more. However, Mizzou Secret Admirers isn’t the only Mizzou Facebook page we love at College Gloss Mizzou! Mizzou Confessional is filled with funny, sweet and serious confessions by your fellow Mizzou students, and Mizzou Compliments is full of wonderful things about many people on campus. Check out some of our staff’s favorites here!

Mizzou Secret Admirers

“#1343 To every girl who has not yet been spoken about on here whether it be because you are shy or your smile has not been noticed by the right person yet...just know that the right person is out there. They will find you and love you and be everything you deserve. Every girl on this campus is gorgeous in her own way. Don't forget that beautiful reader.” — Veronica DeStefano, Syd Hayman

“#250 some chick that lives in schurz and always looks pissed. smile for me.” — Veronica DeStefano

“#1083 Kyle Gunby: I'll be your Zooey Deschanel as long as you'll be my Joseph Gordon-Levitt.” — Samantha Latting. (I don’t know these people but any mention of JGL has me sold.)

“#1285 To the guy I saw walking up the stairs at VAG Tuesday at noon, you amaze me. You were talking about women's rights and I find a man who knows the importance of women impowerment [sic] so attractive. Thank you for making my day and I hope to see you soon :)” — Syd Hayman

“#1653 To all the beautiful boys out in this shitty weather doin their thang for cancer, you rock! Even though most people are ignoring your efforts, just know some of us appreciate it ;)” — Katie Harbinson

Mizzou Confessional

“I shit in the igloo near the Student Center.” — Veronica DeStefano

“I student charge M&Ms at the book store everyday because I don't have EZ charge and I don't want to pay for them with my own money. Thanks Mom and Dad for supporting my M&M addiction.” — Veronica DeStefano

“I submitted myself on Mizzou Secret Admirers.” — Samantha Latting

“I want to use the caramel on my ice cream at the mess halls, but I don't when I see it and remind myself that the dragging little bit of caramel off the ladle will get on the side of my bowl, I am not about that life.” — Katie Harbinson

Mizzou Compliments

“Today I saw a guy go out of his way to walk with his umbrella over a fellow student in a wheelchair. You, sir, are one upstanding human being. Thank you for almost making me cry tears of joy and faith in humanity.” — Veronica DeStefano

“This goes out to you. Thank you for greeting and smiling at me in the morning. Thank you for holding the door open for me. Thank you for noticing others, and being beautiful to each and everyone of us. Thank you for spreading the little bit of joy you contain inside your soul. You are an inspiration. You are reinstated faith. You are beautiful. Thank you, thank you, thank you.” — Veronica DeStefano

“I just want to thank good people. All of you. The events in Boston today highlight how important the pure acts of people anywhere are at anytime. My grandma texted me this afternoon, 'Every generation has had its share of challenges and events in the world that scared them! For me, it was WW2, for your mom it was fear of war with Russia.' The key is to not let the evil of today cripple us. Perpetuate the good, prohibit the reach of evil. I thank MU Compliments and everybody that this website commends for carrying on what's good in this world, each and every day.” — Samantha Latting

What are some of your favorite posts on the Mizzou Secret Admirers, Mizzou Confessional and Mizzou Compliments Facebook pages? Let us know in the comments!

By: CG Mizzou Staff | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Bully"


This week I decided to do something a little differently and watch a documentary—but don’t let that scare you away. "Bully" is a documentary about real life people and their stories, struggles, pains and pasts with the issue of bullying.

"Bully" discusses the issue of bullying in the American school system. The movie follows stories of kids in public schools of Iowa, Georgia, Texas, Mississippi and Oklahoma. Two of the kids, Ty Smalley and Tyler Long, lost their lives to suicide. Seeing their families mourn the losses of their sons was absolutely heartbreaking for me.

We also see stories from Kelby Johnson, Je’Maya Jackson and Alex Libby. Kelby is bullied at school because she’s a lesbian. Je’Maya brought a gun on the bus to try and scare her bullies. Alex is constantly picked on, teased and hit especially on the bus ride home. It was startling to me to see how little the school administration did to help these students.

Ty Smalley’s father, Kirk Smalley, started an organization after he lost his son to suicide, dedicated to keep his son’s voice alive. Stand for the Silent is a non-profit organization that works to keep the conversation about bullying alive and to educate people on becoming advocates for the cause so that this kind of tragedy doesn’t happen to anyone else. Stand for the Silent encourages every victim of bullying remember the phrase: “I am somebody.”

This documentary was heartbreaking, but I was consumed by it for its entirety. I think it’s something everyone should see because it was an eye-opening experience for me. After I finished watching I asked myself, “what can I do to help?”

If you feel the same way after watching, you can check out  thebullymovement.com to take a pledge to stand up against bullying. This website will also give you other ways to get involved and help out. You can host a screening, donate funds for change, or share your own story about bullying.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.

By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Django Unchained"


I remember seeing tweets upon tweets about "Django Unchained" and how awesome it was, so when my friend asked to go see it, I said why not, even though I had no idea what I was going into.

Had I known it was a Quentin Tarantino filled with violence and gore and blood, I probably would have said no. That being said… I’m glad I didn’t know because I ended up loving this movie despite it being filled with things that usually turn me away.

"Django Unchained" is the story of a slave named Django (Jamie Foxx), ‘the D is silent,’ who teams up with a bounty hunter from Germany (Christoph Waltz). In their journey capturing people wanted by the government, dead or alive, they end up at ‘Candyland,’ an infamous plantation owned by Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio). Calvin Candie happens to own Django’s wife, Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), and they have to devise a plan to rescue her from Candyland and make it out alive.

This movie evoked almost every emotion on the human spectrum. I laughed, cried, cringed, got angry, gasped and questioned my faith in humanity just to have it restored again. The movie even has a hilarious cameo by Jonah Hill.

As with any Quentin Tarantino film, some gore and violence is to be expected (I may have viewed most of the movie through the cracks between my fingers covering my face). Even if you're like myself and usually shy away from these kinds of movies, I strongly urge you to give Django a chance. Every performance given in this movie was flawless in my opinion. Maybe Leo will finally get that Oscar we all know he deserves. Honestly, how that man has never gotten an Oscar is a mystery I cannot solve, but that’s another story.

Prepare yourself for a roller coaster of emotions and take the spare time to sit down and watch this movie. The movie is pretty long, but the length is worth it for a film that will have you talking about it and quoting your favorite lines for weeks afterward.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.

 By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Entertainment Review: Paramore's Fourth Self-Titled Album


As soon as I found out Paramore was working on a new album I was beyond excited. I’ve been jamming out to this band since before I could even drive, and now they’ve just dropped their fourth studio, self-titled album.

I, among other fans, was excited but also nervous for this new album. This album follows a split in the band. Two of the original and founding members of Paramore, brothers Josh and Zac Farro, left the band. The group is now left with front woman Hayley Williams, guitarist Taylor York and bassist Jeremy Davis.

I worried how this would affect their music and if it would even still sound like the band I know and love. I was also pretty nervous because their last album, "Brand New Eyes," means a lot to me and is definitely in my top five favorite albums of all time, so ya know… no pressure or anything, Paramore.

I cannot deny the music sounds a little different, and the first listen through I wasn’t really feeling it. I gave it another listen, paying closer attention to the lyrics, and I started to really connect with the music. I cannot stop listening to it now. I constantly have it on repeat!

In my own opinion, lyrically, this album is kick ass. I keep catching myself tweeting the lyrics as I listen. The sound of the album as a whole is pretty diverse (there are three ukulele interludes).

When Josh Farro left the band he called Paramore, “a manufactured product of a major label,” and after listening to this album I’m calling his bluff. This self-titled album sounds raw, original and real. This isn’t your cookie cutter pop-punk/alternative album.

Every song has its own feel, sound and ability to make you relate, and every song is just good in its own respect. I don’t skip any of them when listening though. I recommend this one, without a doubt.

By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "The Hunger Games"


If you haven’t seen "The Hunger Games" by now I’m going to assume you’ve been living under a rock. This is where my weird obsession with Jennifer Lawrence began. At least I can admit that I have a problem, that’s the first step right?

"The Hunger Games" has been out at Redbox for quite some time now, but they just added it to Netflix and Amazon Prime, so I’ve been hearing a lot about it again and I decided to watch it ... again. I mean, "Catching Fire" comes out in November, so it’s never too soon to start mentally preparing to delve back into the story.

I’m going to keep my summary short because I assume most people, even those who haven’t seen it, know the general plot of the story. The movie takes place in the country of Panem, which is where the United States had been. The movie takes place in a post-apocalyptic world of sorts. Panem is split up into 12 districts and The Capitol. Every year two tributes, a boy and a girl, are chosen to represent their district in the annual Hunger Games.

The Hunger Games are a punishment to the districts for “the dark days.” The districts tried to rebel and rise against The Capitol. There was a 13th district that The Capitol wiped off the map because of the rebellions. Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) are the tributes in this years games. Originally it was Prim, Katniss’ little sister, who was chosen to compete, but Katniss volunteered as tribute to keep her little sister safe.

I definitely recommend this movie. I loved the book series, and I think the movie followed the story well. If you haven’t seen it yet, here are a few reasons why you should.

1. The eye candy—Jennifer Lawrence is beautiful, Josh Hutcherson is absolutely adorable, and Liam Hemsworth, who plays Katniss’ childhood friend Gale, is just plain sexy. If only he had his real life Australian accent in this movie...

2. "Catching Fire" comes out in November—The sequel is said to be even better. They had more money to spend this time around and the storyline only thickens. In the meantime, read the books. They’re great.

3. Katniss is a total badass—I love it when girls are independent and kick butt. Katniss is exactly that. She’s a hunter and takes care of her family. She also saves Peeta’s ass more than once during the games (he does, however, return the favor).

4. Woody Harrelson and Elizabeth Banks are hilarious—Harrelson plays Haymitch, Peeta and Katniss’ mentor. Banks plays Effie Trinket, district 12’s escort from The Capitol. The banter between their characters is probably my favorite.

Long story short, if you are in the minority here it’s time to jump on "The Hunger Games" bandwagon. It doesn’t look like this craze is going to die off anytime soon.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.

By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Zero Dark Thirty"



National Women’s Month may be over but that doesn’t mean the world is in short supply of badass women. This week’s pick, "Zero Dark Thirty," personifies female badass-ery in the character of Maya (Jessica Chastain) and in Kathryn Bigelow, a fellow badass female who directs this movie.

Maya is an intelligence expert who has dedicated 10 years of her life to finding and capturing Osama Bin Laden, post-September 11th attacks. A change in Maya can be seen throughout the movie. In the beginning you can tell some of the tactics used by her colleague, Dan (Jason Clarke) make her uneasy, but she becomes more accepting of his tactics after time passes and she becomes frustrated by many dead ends and false leads. Maya continues her dedication and persistence even after she seems to be the only one still fighting passionately for the cause.

This movie has really put this real-life manhunt in perspective for me. A decade is a long time to be dedicated to anything—that’s almost half of my life. This movie was interesting although it isn’t a genre I would usually pick on my own. (I’ve got a thing for chick flicks if you all haven’t noticed.) I admit, I did get distracted a few times because the movie is kind of lengthy.

I would recommend this movie for a few different reasons: 1) It is an important part of your own history—you were on this earth while it was happening, and that is pretty cool. 2) Jessica Chastain is a badass. And finally, 3) this movie is genuinely entertaining and a good story.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.
By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Crazy, Stupid, Love"


This week I decided to re-watch "Crazy, Stupid, Love" for about the millionth time. Why do I keep watching it? Could it be the humor, the sentimental moments or Ryan Gosling’s abs? Let’s go with D: all of the above.

"Crazy, Stupid, Love" centers around Cal (Steve Carell) who is fighting to get his wife (Julianne Moore) back after she has an affair with a guy from her office, David Lindhagen (Kevin Bacon). Post-infidelity announcement Cal finds himself in a bar where he’s telling anyone who will listen (or not) about how David Lindhagen has cuckolded him—yes he actually says that.

Jacob (Ryan Gosling) hears Cal’s pathetic cries for attention and decides to take him under his wing. Jacob is a stud and has zero problems getting the attention of any girl at the bar—except Hannah (Emma Stone), but that’s a whole other story.

When Hannah shows up at the bar and comes to Jacob with a change of heart, he falls off the grid because all of the time he’s spending with her and leaves Cal to fend for himself and, left to his own devices, Cal gets himself into some trouble.

The remainder of the movie is full of laughs, a backyard brawl and even a big twist that I didn’t see coming. This rom-com might even make your boyfriend laugh. Redbox this one for sure.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.
By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "Wreck It Ralph"


Who says that cartoons are just for kids? Not this girl. This week’s pick, “Wreck it Ralph,” is the story of an arcade video game villain, Wreck It Ralph (John C. Reilly), who doesn’t want to be the bad guy anymore.

Ralph leaves his game, Fix-It-Felix and makes his way into a first person shooter game where he tries his luck as a hero. The damage Ralph causes here is solved by his arch nemesis in the video game world, Fix-It-Felix (Jack McBrayer.)

Ralph tries his luck in another video game in the arcade called Sugar Rush, which is a racing game. Here he meets Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman), a ‘glitch’ in her own game who wants more than anything to become a racer.

Ralph has to help Vanellope to get what she wants, but Ralph has to make a decision to return to his game or not. If he doesn’t his game will be unplugged, which is the worst thing that can happen to a game in the arcade. Without Ralph around to wreck anything, Felix has nothing to fix.

I may have used my 5-year-old nephew as an excuse to go see it in theatres. He loved it, and so did I. I definitely wouldn’t call this one just a movie for the kids. It was a really well thought-out, sweet, funny and warm hearted movie … that just happened to be a cartoon.

I cannot lie; I did get a little misty eyed at the end of this one and was even legitimately shocked at the plot twist.

I would definitely recommend running down to Redbox and getting this one.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.
By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source

Redbox Review: "The Perks of Being a Wallflower"


"The Perks of Being a Wallflower" is being called a modern classic, and I totally agree. Whether you’ve read the novel from which the movie is based or not, this movie is wonderful and heartfelt. Reading the book first is definitely recommended though. I may have read it four times. What? It’s my favorite book, okay?

Charlie (Logan Lerman), the main character or the wallflower if you will, is not your typical high school freshman. He has reservations about starting his high school journey as a friendless teen with anxiety. He begins to write letters to an anonymous person to help him feel not so alone.

There are a lot of lessons we can learn from Charlie and the friends he makes along the way. Here’s four of the most important.

1. Don’t sell yourself short. One of the most known quotes from the novel and the movie is a piece of advice that Charlie’s English teacher (Paul Rudd) gives him. “We accept the love we think we deserve.” In other words, don’t settle. Not just in your relationships but in other aspects of your life, too.

2. It’s okay to be selfish sometimes. One of my favorite quotes from the novel and the movie is “You can’t just sit there and put everybody’s lives ahead of yours and think that counts as love.” Sometimes you have to put yourself first to be the best you that you can be for those who love you.

3. It’s okay to not have it all together all of the time. I mean, we are only human. In the beginning Charlie says, “So this is my life. And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad, and I’m still trying to figure out how that could be.” Human emotion is messy, and so is the way we experience it. Don’t be afraid to feel what you feel.

4. Emma Watson is flawless. Okay, maybe this one doesn’t count. But who can argue with the perfection of the super talented and always-beautiful Emma Watson? She did win the People’s Choice Award for her role as Sam in the movie.

Don’t think the entire story is this heavy, however; there’s plenty of lightheartedness. The movie and the novel will both leave you feeling moved with the desire to dive back into the story again and again. You won’t regret it.

Without a doubt—rent this one. Heck, I say buy it.

This article is part of Samantha Latting's weekly entertainment column, "Redbox Review," which provides reviews about movies available at Redbox.
By: Samantha Latting | Image: Source
+

Copyright 2014 On Campus

Designed by Template Trackers