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thursDAY, oct. 23 - suNDAY, oct. 26, 2014 • VoLume 101 • Issue 22
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cover design by mark anthony santos
INTRO p 2 • FILM COMMISSION RISES AGAIN p 4 • THE CHURCH BREAKS BAD p 5 • FOREIGN FILMS SAIL INTO SAN DIEGO p 6 • AZTEC ALUMINI HIT HOLLYWOOD p 7
NETFLIX FILMS PERFECT FOR HALLOWEEN p 8 • DOPE DOCUMENTARIES OF 2014 p 9 • DIGITAL GYM p 10
oct. 23 - 26, 2014 • tHE DAILY AZtEcEDItor: nick knott • [email protected]
Film issue reels in aztec audiencesnick knott EntErtainmEnt Editor____________________
Film is a beautiful thing. For decades, audiences have been captivated by what they see on the silver screen. It’s not an easy feat for filmmakers to create a work of art that will keep a theater full of people glued to their seats for an extended period of time, but each and every year we see movies that do just that. Although actual
film is essentially obsolete, film technology has progressed to the point where audiences can visualize Transformers terrorizing cities, visit fantasy worlds such as “Avatar’s” Pandora and see assortments of objects come through the screen with the help of magical 3D glasses. Instead of
providing an issue full of movie reviews, The Daily Aztec has compiled articles that dig a little deeper. Even though San Diego is a bit south from the film capital of the world, America’s Finest City has a lot to offer its citizens. One of those
offerings is the multiple film festivals every year, and the San Diego Italian Film Fest
is our cities’ most recent tenant (p. 6). For years, San Diego has been more than helpful for independent filmmakers such as Mark Escobar (p. 5), but with the closure of the San Diego Film commission (p. 4) it’s become a tad more difficult. But that doesn’t stop small media arts centers such as Digital Gym (p. 10) from showing fantastic flicks and putting on workshops for eager filmmakers. With midterms
coming to a close and Halloween around the corner, there are some great spooky flicks to check out (p.8-9) to help relive your post-test stress. Also, Ken cinema is back in full swing after its potential shutdown (p. 10). The cinema brings its annual “Midnight Madness” showings back to life just in time for the spookiest time of year. Whether you’re
the type who loves movies with extra-buttery popcorn and overpriced sodas, or the type who wants to cozy up under blankets with a tub of ice cream and Netflix, there’s something in The Daily Aztec Film Issue for you. Be sure to check
out our online edition for all of this week’s regular content.
tHE FILM ISSuE
Editor’s note: The following was submitted to The Daily Aztec by Art Correia, and was written by Sara’s parents for her hometown newspaper.
Sara Beth Stelzer, 18, of Moorpark, California died suddenly on Oct. 17, 2014 as a result of bacterial meningitis. She was born May 10, 1996 in Valencia, California. She graduated from Moorpark High School in 2014 where she was one of the Moorpark Musketeer Mascots, an active member of the Youth in Government, played soccer and basketball, and traveled to Peru and Costa Rica to volunteer with Global Leadership Adventures. Sara attended San Diego State University as a freshman, majoring in Public Relations, and was
3newsoct. 23 - 26, 2014 • tHE DAILY AZtEcEDItor: DaviD hernanDez • [email protected]
In Loving Memory
davId HERNaNdEZNEWS EDITOR
jamIE ballaRdSTaff WRITER____________________________________
The San Diego State student chapter of Active Minds held two outreach events on Tuesday, Oct. 21 as part of a suicide awareness effort.
During the day, 1,100 graduation caps were laid on the grass on Campanile Walkway, representing the approximate number of students nationwide who committed suicide last year.
“We’re creating that visual so students are actually seeing what is going on in our country and recognizing that suicide is 100 percent preventable,” Active Minds President and psychology senior Lauren Hughes said. “So if we can see this and realize that we can prevent this as much as we can … that can go a long way in promoting the success of our students.”
Hughes said there are many factors that make suicide a prevalent issue on college campuses: adjusting to new settings, worrying about finances, finding new friends, balancing school work and a job, and more.
“There’s just a lot of stressors that can potentially hinder a student and academic success, and I think since the majority of students are going through this transition, it gets to be kind of hard to
#ActIVEMINDS
Active Minds spreads awareness handle sometimes,” she said.
Hughes said a quality conversation with someone could change his or her life.
Members of Active Minds set up a table to educate students about suicide prevention and inform them of Active Mind events as well as resources available to them through SDSU Counseling and Psychological Services.
Signs set up along Campanile Walkway had the suicide prevention hotline, suicide warning signs and facts written on them.
“The signs are out so students don’t just see the graduation caps but also recognize that it is in regards to suicide prevention and educating them even if they’re not coming to speak to us directly,” Hughes said.
Hughes said her family has been impacted by suicide.
“If I can be out here and preventing it as much as possible, then that’s what I’m going to do, and I’m going to bring it to college campuses because I feel it’s a very prevalent issue in college.”
Active Minds also held a candlelight vigil in the evening. Students wrote words of encouragement or shared their personal losses by writing on paper bags. The bags contained LEED candles that were lit up along Campanile Walkway.
Messages written on the paper bags included, “It’s okay to ask for help. You are not alone,” and “Reach Out.” Others simply had a name of a friend or relative that committed suicide.
One survivor wrote out his or her story to tell others that, “it was definitely worth it to keep going. We’re all fighting for life together.”
Junior student Johannah Fernandes attended the candlelight vigil, partially because one of her loved ones recently attempted to commit suicide and was unsuccessful.
“It’s very important, because not only does it affect the person thinking about it — everybody is affected,” she said. “It’s
really important for people contemplating it to know that they’re not alone.”
Tuesday’s outreach initiatives were part of a partnership with eight other California colleges. The universities participating included San Jose State University; Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo; and University of California, Los Angeles.
“Having a university that’s a part of such a larger picture is a cool aspect of what we’re doing,” Hughes said.
a new member of Kappa Delta sorority. Sara is survived by her parents Greg and Laurie Stelzer and her sisters, Audrey and Shannon. She also leaves her maternal grandparents, Bill and Judy Bowman of Camarillo, and a very large, loving circle of extended family and friends.
Sara was a beautiful, funny and vibrant ray of sunshine and she will be terribly missed by her family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley.
Who’sWho?Editor in ChiEfMonica Linzmeier
Managing EditorMadison Hopkins
nEws EditorDavid Hernandez
asst. nEws EditorCamille Lozano
sports EditorKristian Ibarra
asst. sports EditorTerence Chin
opinion EditorElpin Keshishzadeh
asst. opinion EditorKC Stanfield
EntErtainMEnt EditorNick Knott
asst. EntErtainMEnt EditorRyo Miyauchi
fEaturEs EditorKelly Hillock
asst. fEaturEs EditorChelsea Baer
photo EditorJenna Mackey
vidEo EditorWesley Beights
digital ContEnt EditorKelly Gardner
produCtion dEsignErsKate Leonard
Mark Anthony Santos
voluntEEr writErsJamie Ballard
Mike HeralSarah Tanori
Josselyn MolinaLily Glenister
Hayley SpenceCourtney Brown
Christine Whitman
voluntEEr photographErsJosselyn Molina
Andy Farra
__________________________________
advErtising dirECtorTony Disarufino
salEs ManagErAdam Zabel
sEnior aCCount ExECutivERadbeh Rabaz
aCCount ExECutivEsAlfonso BarajasShannon LubarKamila Sikorski
aCCounting & ContraCtsMichael Bratt
Kim Le
__________________________________
gEnEral ManagErJay Harn
graphiCs spECialistChris Blakemore
__________________________________
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EDIToRIAL INquIRIES619.594.4190
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oCT. 23 - 26, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDIToR: niCk knott • [email protected] film issue
#FILMCoNSoRTIuM
Local film agency revivedmike heralSenior Staff writer____________________________________
San Diego State lecturer Neil Kendricks graduated from SDSU with a Master of Arts in Television, Film and New Media. He directed many short films during his graduate studies and relied heavily on a now-defunct city government department.
“The Film Commission was incredibly filmmaker-friendly,” he said. “I used them on every single shoot.”
Kendricks said the San Diego Film Commission’s “one-stop shopping” environment — from arranging city permits to previewing possible film locations — made filming in San Diego possible for beginners.
“It was the first place I’d go,” he said. “They’d even preview your scripts and sometimes give suggestions on what would and wouldn’t work.”
Ordinarily, such a wide array of support would cost a user substantially. But Kendricks found its price reasonable.
“It was all free,” he said. “And they were nice; it wasn’t like going to the DMV where it was like the ninth circle of Hell.”
Hell’s gates loosened in April 2013 when the San Diego Tourism Authority’s funding was reduced. Three months later, the Tourism Authority terminated the Film Commission, forcing filmmakers into shooting without the protection that a city permit afforded.
“Before the Film Commission closed, there was no reason to do a ‘guerrilla shoot,’” Kendricks said. “Those permits were gold because they took care of (city) police that might stop you.”
Entering into this filmmaker limbo is the San Diego Film Consortium. However, it was established to hone local filmmakers into a national force and not to coordinate with city government, founder Jodi Ciley said.
“We can make movies anywhere,” she said. “But if we collectively utilized the film community here in San Diego, we could make bigger and better products.”
sarah tanoriStaff writer ____________________________________
When watching movies, soundtracks are often overlooked or even ignored. There’s a story going on, so who cares about the background? What most don’t realize is that this very music is what shapes the movie; it’s a pivotal factor and aid for actors to create the appropriate emotions. Perhaps, these tunes are the underdog. Here are a few soundtracks from this year that prove just that.
“Palo Alto”This Gia Coppola-directed movie
deals with teenagers struggling with love and adolescent recklessness. The soundtrack justifies the movie to say the least. “Ode to Viceroy” by Mac DeMarco illustrates the plot perfectly as the song gives a creeping sense of longing and disillusion; the guitar in the background gives off that perfect careless energy the movie exerts. Blood Orange’s “You’re Not Good Enough”
The Film Consortium fosters San Diego’s film community through monthly seminars. The organization also provides a talent registry and hosts an annual awards show. It’s designed to lift filmmakers to the next rung and turn San Diego into Hollywood South.
“Eventually, we want to help create funding and distribution channels for the best projects and best production companies producing here,” Ciley said.
Ciley doesn’t want to follow the Film Commission’s business model.
“It was focused on bringing work from out of town,” she said. “They were primarily funded by the hotel people, so they wanted to bring people in and fill hotel rooms.”
Despite being out of business, the Film Commission’s website is still operational. It’s promoted success stories backs Ciley’s claim that it was too focused on recruiting outside talent. Hollywood productions such as movies “Bruce Almighty” and “Lords of Dogtown” plus TV’s “The X-Files” and “Veronica Mars” are touted as being filmed here.
Kendricks doesn’t agree. His concern is that not having the Film Commission will hurt the San Diegans that the Film
Consortium wants to promote.“The Film Commission helped
filmmakers shoot their film in the spirit of safety,” he said.
Kendricks said the Film Commission always promoted safe shooting. They asked if filmmaker wanted streets blocked off, if they knew how to operate their equipment and trained production crews on liability issues.
Still, Kendricks thinks the Film Consortium is a valuable addition to San Diego’s burgeoning film community.
“What (Ciley) is doing , which is wonderful , is creating a sense of community among people interested in film,” he said. “It shouldn’t be confused with what a Film Commission does.”
Kendricks remains an active filmmaker despite his teaching schedule and his duties as film curator for the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego. His current project is a documentary about comic book artists. For that, he films in Los Angeles. If he does require a San Diego location, he’s puzzled how to set it up now that the Film Commission gone.
“To be honest, I don’t even know,” Kendricks said. “That’s a real problem.”
Soundtracks score big in 2014#MoVIEMuSIC
and Coconut Records’ “Is This Sound Okay?” are odes to the simplistic aesthetic shown in Coppola’s modern yet classic shots throughout the film.
“Divergent”Directed by Neil Burger, “Divergent”
is a sci-fi film that juggles a girl who is atypical in a world that judges based on virtues. As an enigma in this molded society, the main character must determine what makes her kind such a threat before society turns against her. The soundtrack of this film especially focuses on the sci-fi element of the movie. All songs are an eclectic, ethereal electronic combination that brings together both a futuristic and incredulous feel. Highlights include “Find You” by Zedd, “I Need You” by M83 and “Backwards” by Tame Impala, featuring Kendrick Lamar. You can spin these at your next party.
“Guardians of the Galaxy”“Guardians of the Galaxy” follows a
super-group of space convicts trying to stop evil from taking down its galaxy.
Adventure is a recurring concept in the film, but the music is not your typical action-packed mixtape. However, the soundtrack backing this up is far from generic. Its varying line-up of throwback artists includes The Runaways, David Bowie and Jackson 5. The movie’s soundtrack is a groovy take on an intergalactic superhero movie.
“The Fault in our Stars”Yes, we’ve all heard the story. Girl has
cancer, she meets boy, boy gets cancer and a bunch of mush in between. However typical the movie sounds, one cannot devalue the music even though John Green is branded on the name. The movie is quite good and the music is incredibly in sync with the storyline. Some highlights are “Boom Clap” by Charli XCX and “Simple as This” by Jake Bugg. Out of all, “No One Ever Loved” by Lykke Li captures the theme perfectly with its tear-jerking lyrics sung by Li’s tragically beautiful voice. Please listen and don’t ignore just because of the hype; the music is there for a reason.
neil kendricks is a san diego state alum who is now an active filmmaker. JENNA MACKEY, PHoTo EDIToR
THE FILM ISSUEOCT. 23 - 26, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: NICK KNOTT • [email protected]
#THECHURCH
Art and film worship at The Church
JOSSELYN MOLINASTAFF WRITER____________________________________
Sitting south of the largest film industry in the world, San Diego has upheld its artistic versatility through the people who found the healing powers of art and its creative expression. Mark Escobar, along with Frank Luna, is one of the founders of Barrio Logan’s newly established digital arts center, The Church. He also has been working on
a full-length documentary film based on the life of Don Eulert, a shaman, professor and a friend of the people.
Since August, The Church has opened its doors for kids and adults across San Diego to provide them with a peaceful environment dedicated to learning, teaching and enjoying the process of creation — a place where art is a religion. The newly installed music studio, record store and brightly painted murals have attracted many of San Diego’s artists and students willing to
Mark Escobar intently works inside The Church, which opened its doors in August in Barro Logan. JOSSELYN MOLINA, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
learn and have fun.“If it doesn’t make us laugh, we
don’t do it,” Escobar said. He’s one of The Church’s supporting members, encouraging artistic expression through Internet live broadcasting. He’s also the executive producer of a currently untitled production following Don Eulert, professor of integrative psychology at Alliant International University’s San Diego campus.
Eulert is a visionary leader encouraging the use of nature-based
healing methods, including traditional rituals and a natural approach to psychology. He learned and accepted a way of sovereign living among nature.
The documentary takes us into a day in Eulert’s life. Working at the Center of Integrative Psychology, where he keeps students aware of better practices. The center allows student to explore both the clinical and formless aspects of psychology. Alongside his teaching career, he mentors his students and community by the simple act of living. As the caretaker of 55 acres of land in Julian, he puts his philosophies into play by organizing community events such as sweat lodges for the purification of one’s disconnections and the junction of like minds.
Like The Church, Euler’s frog farm is used as a community refuge and healing center for anyone trying to find their way back onto their life path. Eulert has devoted his life to the healing of others through integrative psychology, multicultural wisdom traditions and nature-based therapies. His philosophies and lifestyle coincide with the idea of grounding oneself back to earth.
With so much support from the San Diego community, the documentary is expected to be finished and featured by February 2015. Check out The Church on Facebook and keep an eye out for free events centered on reconnection, creativity and growth.
oct. 23 - 26, 2014 • tHE DAILY AZtEcEDItor: nick knott • [email protected] film issue
#SDIff
foreign films sail into San Diegolily glenistercontributor ____________________________________
Not many people can jet off to a foreign country at the drop of a dime, especially college students preoccupied with midterms. And let’s face it: traveling anywhere nowadays is extremely pricey. Despite lack of time and funds, there are great opportunities in San Diego where students can find an alternative travel fix such as the San Diego Italian Film Festival.
A dose of culture and excitement can be found at the eighth annual San Diego Italian Film Festival that kicked off last week on Oct. 16. The SDIFF provides
a welcoming atmosphere for those interested not only in Italian film but Italian culture as a whole.
Bearing the slogan “not just Italian films — an Italian perspective,” the SDIFF worked hard to achieve its goal of conveying a truthful outlook on modern life in Italy this year by screening ten Italian films all from the past 18 months.
Among the films shown during the SDIFF’s opening weekend was 2013’s “Anni Felici” (Those Happy Years), a film that only premiered at one other venue in the U.S., and “La Grand Bellezza” (The Great Beauty), which won an Oscar and Golden Globe award for Best
Foreign Language film.“La Grande Bellezza,” directed by
Paolo Sorrentino, was just one example of great Italian films the festival provided. The film followed the story of modern Italians disenchanted with life in Rome, a city rooted in grandeur. It ushered in feelings of curiosity while at the same time reflecting on the high expectations that’s not always easy living up to.
Sponsors of the event included San Diego State’s own Italian Studies program. Professor of Italian Studies Rosamaria Ruggeri said the film festival is a chance for friends to come together, experience something new and learn about the cultural realities of Italy through an artistic approach.
“Going to the SDIFF is an opportunity to see how Italy is today, to be immersed in the beauty of the country and the problems that people are confronting in what has become a multi-ethnic society,” Ruggeri said.
The festival was held at three venues throughout San Diego and North County including the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park, La Paloma Theatre in Encinitas and UltraStar Cinemas at Hazard Center in Mission Valley. The festival garnered attention from citizens interested in Italian culture all throughout San Diego.
The SDIFF is an affordable way to get a rich Italian experience. If you’re interested in a fun night out and indulging in the beauty of Italian cinema, you still have a chance at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24, at the MoPA to see the Italian drama “Miele” (Honey). Tickets are sold at the door, cash only, for $10 for general admission or $8 for SDIFF members, students and the military.
italian cinema took over San diego for a week long festival. courtESY of SAn DIEgo ItALIAn fILm fEStIvAL
The SDIFF IS an aFForDable way To geT a rIch ITalIan experIence
Julie Kavner voices one of the most beloved animated mothers ever to grace
primetime television: Marge Simpson. Kavner was born in Los Angeles and made her way down south to attend SDSU, where she majored in drama. After graduating in 1971, she started a job as typist. Eventually
she landed her most prestigious role as the voices of Marge Simpson and Marge’s
sisters, Patty and Selma Bouvier. The voice actress has lent her vocal talents to the classic animated sitcom for 26 years. Although technically not known for her
work in film, Kavner’s voice acting legacy is still a proud achievement for all Aztecs.
Not only is Kathy Najimy an Aztec alumna, but she’s also a San Diego native. Najimy’s
career has taken her down the paths of both television and film. She has done voice acting in “King of the Hill” and
“Wall-E” as well as starred in films such as “Rat Race,“ “Sister Act” and most famously “Hocus Pocus.” Other than acting, Najimi spends a chunk of her time as an activist for causes, such as women’s rights, AIDS
research and animal rights. Currently she’s working on a TV movie and two feature
films that are set to release in the next two years.
The memorable backdrop for a certain cheerleading flick may look familiar for
Aztecs. Hepner Hall isn’t solely famous for its Instagram-worthy architecture but also as the iconic cheerleader hangout scene in “Bring it On.” Many have tried, but nothing
can beat the original cast, routines and campus location. To all future cheerleading flicks, don’t try to bring it because it was
already brought to SDSU.
The early 2000s teen sleuth television series “Veronica Mars” was filmed in the very same office where this article was
written. The basement of the Education and Business Administration building is home to The Daily Aztec office, which
was one of the many San Diego locations producers of “Veronica Mars” chose to
use. Kristen Bell walked through the same green-colored cubicles as the ones that the current editorial staff calls home
today.
Before Carl Weathers tackled the challenge of boxing against Russian phenom Ivan
Drago in “Rocky IV,” he was a linebacker for the SDSU football team. Weathers’ football
career took off at SDSU and it ultimately led him to the professional circuit. After his tenure with the Oakland Raiders, he
took his talent from the gridiron to the big screen. Weathers starred alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood, which include Sylvester Stallone, Adam Sandler
and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
aztec alumni hit hollywood
When people think of famous Aztecs, many picture some of our spectacular
sports athletes such as Kawhi Leonard and Tony Gwynn. However, many celebrities in the world of Hollywood got their start right here. The San Diego State campus is famous in its own right as it has served as the backdrop in a number of television shows and films. For the film issue we’ve
compiled a short list of some of the Aztecs who have made their way to Hollywood.
Nick kNott entertainment editor
Carl Weathes, #50, played linebacker at San Diego State before he started acting.
FiLe pHoTo
Kristen Bell starred as ‘Veronica Mars’ which was filmed at San Diego State.
pHoTo courTeSy oF juSTin Lubin
The famous cheerleading flick ‘Bring it On’ features several scenes with iconic San Diego State icons in the background.
youTube
OCT. 23 - 26, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: NICK KNOTT • [email protected] FILM ISSUE
#NETFLIX
Spooky flicks available on NetflixHAYLEY SPENCESTAFF WRITER____________________________________
It’s the month of October. Most of us are thinking about getting a solid grade on our midterms, but looming around the corner is that wonderful event of Halloween. We might be too old to trick-or-treat, and some aren’t old enough to go to bars and party. However, there’s the alternative of a horror movie night with friends to attempt to scare the willies out of each other.
Netflix has a wide selection of horror films from classics to new-age zombie flicks. Compiled below is a list of some of the best films available on Netflix with a little bit of something for everyone in your group.
CARRIE (2014)A remake of the 1976 film,
it follows a misfit teenager discovering that she has supernatural powers and uses them to wreak havoc against her bully classmates at the prom. The remake stars Chloe Grace Moretz, Julianne Moore and Portia Doubleday. Director Kimberly Peirce is at the helm for this reboot of Stephen King’s famous novel, and it’s sure to give thrills. A combination of this and the original makes for an awesome movie night to see which one scares you the most.
CHILDREN OF THE CORN
It’s back to the classics. This is one of those films that scared us as kids and can still frighten us as adults. Directed by Fritz Kiersch, this 1984 horror classic centers around a couple trapped in a remote small town run by children who believe anyone older than 18 deserves to die. The cult is deadly and the corn fields are their holy place. A film that has lots of slashing and supernatural scares, it is definitely a Halloween classic to be watched every year.
WORLD WAR ZNo one expected this Brad Pitt
flick to be any good, but it blew all the skeptics out of the water as one of the best zombie films released in recent years. Directed by Marc Foster, the film is based around Gerry Lane (Pitt), who is a United Nations employee recruited to find patient zero of a zombie pandemic spreading like wildfire. With patient zero, they will be able to create a vaccine or cure and save the remaining survivors. A fast-paced film full of zombies and violence, it’s a fun ride to throw into the horror film movie list.
V/H/SThis film series has a little bit
of everything. A group of college kids is hired to break into an abandoned house to steal a VHS tape, and they begin to watch the many tapes they find. With a different director for each segment, this anthology definitely has thrills for each person, which makes it that much more fun. From murder, hauntings and supernatural creatures in the woods, this anthology will make you jump out of your skin and might bring a few laughs along the way.
THE AWAKENINGSet in England, 1921, main character Florence Cathcart is famous for exposing
supernatural hoaxes. When she gets a request from a boarding school that believe to be haunted, she visits to explain the sightings and show that it’s not real. But the longer she stays, the more she feels everything she stands for and believes in is coming undone. Starring Rebecca Hall and Dominic West, this 2011 supernatural thriller is sure to send chills down your spine. It might even get you checking around corners and turning the lights on in the dark.
oct. 23 - 26, 2014 • tHE DAILY AZtEcEDItor: nick knott • [email protected]
Delightful docs ditch the effects
#fILmDocs
sarah tanoriStaff writer____________________________________
Films are ethereal. They take you to new, mystical places never thought possible. The same happens when you watch documentaries as they take a lens on the life of a person, event or place. But instead of feeling mind-blown by video effects, you stay baffled and pensive because it’s the real deal. To get you started, here are some great documentaries released this year that are worth the watch.
“Waiting for mamu”“Waiting for Mamu” channels the
societal struggles growing up as a child of a convict in Nepal. In a lot of countries, children are imprisoned with their parents. It isn’t until the age of 18 that they are released into the world. Like all other prisoners, the children do not have access to education or the opportunity to build social skills. This film follows social worker Pushpa Basnet, who provides education and shelter for these children, as she gives them hope outside of the prison life they didn’t deserve in the first place.
“Where We Belong”Kelsey McConnell — Television,
Film and Media major at San Diego State — is the mind behind “Where We Belong.” The documentary is a series of interviews based on diversity groups on campus, particularly V-Day
SDSU and Gamma Rho Lambda. The former organization helps stop violence against women, and the latter is the queer-based sorority on campus. This documentary stresses the importance of diversity groups on a community and personal level. The stories in these interviews display how students have overcome prejudice and how they plan to use that knowledge to help their community.
“the Internet’s own Boy”“The Internet’s Own Boy” covers
the life of Aaron Swartz, the founder of Reddit and one of the Internet’s brightest prodigies. Swartz’s life was cut tragically short when he committed suicide at the age of 26. This is a story about an immensely intelligent young man pushed to the point of death by the pressures from the government due to his ability to carry out his extensive knowledge as an information activist.
“the Dog” “The Dog” is an evocative
documentary about John Wojtowicz, the muse for Al Pacino’s famous crime film “Dog Day Afternoon.” Wojtowicz was infamous for his love of polygamy. With that said, he also played a large role in the gay liberation movement. Although the 1960s was a time of freedom and love, he took his persona to new heights as a man decades ahead of his peers. This documentary covers the multi-faceted John Wojtowicz, famous for his absurd passion, his activism and his almost-bank robbery.
this year has produced some amazing documentaries, such as ‘Waiting for mamu.’ courtEsY of fAcEBook
the film issue oct. 23 - 26, 2014 • tHE DAILY AZtEcEDItor: nick knott • [email protected]
#DIgItALgYm
college area cinema serves youth
ryo miyauchiasst. entertainment editor____________________________________
In the middle of a hip bar and coffee shop on El Cajon Boulevard sits Digital Gym Cinema. Geared with quality films and a passion for creative expression, the space provides a unique experience not found in commercial theaters. Since opening in April 2013, it’s quickly becoming a go-to hub for both movie fans and aspiring filmmakers.
The organization behind Digital Gym Cinema is the Media Arts Center San Diego. It grew out of the San Diego Latino Film Festival, an annual event led by MACSD founder Ethan van Thillo, in order to further educate and promote the media arts to community members who lack the resources.
“I was part of the organization back in 2000 to 2007 and then I returned now,” MACSD Exhibitions Director Phil Lorenzo said. “My commitment now has been reaching to the community in a genuine, earnest way through media arts such as film, music — all the ways that create gateways through culture.”
Before it moved to its current location
courtney brownstaff writer____________________________________
Landmark Theaters’ Ken Cinema continues its Saturday midnight movie tradition. Located in the happening neighborhood around Adams Avenue, Ken Cinema is San Diego’s last single-screen theater. Not only is it an iconic landmark, it’s one of the best places to catch obscure flicks.
Midnight Movie Madness is an October tradition anticipated by residents and Halloween fanatics in the area. The series began Oct. 4 with “Blazing Saddles” and continues every Saturday until Nov. 22. Students still have time to catch “Only Lovers Left Alive,” “Fateful Findings,” “Jurassic Park” and “Spirited Away.”
on El Cajon Boulevard, MACSD resided at a converted house in Golden Hills. As the organization grew, it needed more space to facilitate its programs. The new location at the heart of many communities, such as University Heights, Normal Heights and City Heights, which allows MACSD to keep close attention to its needs
“We are at a fascinating place.” Lorenzo said. “We are witnessing, from our side, a community in transition. This community is growing not just in economic variance but certainly in ethnic variance. That’s an important thing to have a pulse on.”
MACSD opened its cinema last April. The space resembles a casual rec center with its cozy lounge at the lobby. Watching a movie in its small, intimate theater feels like a private screening at a buddy’s house. The friendly atmosphere provides a relaxing alternative to the crowded hustle of a commercial theater.
Besides the space, the cinema’s film selection trumps the usual AMCs and Regal Cinemas. Every week or so, it rotates around a choice of independent or international films not commonly found anywhere else. Just in the coming weeks, it will screen Mexican punk-band comedy “Somos Mari Pepa” and domestic indie “Camp X-Ray,” which stars actress Kristen Stewart as a Guantanamo Bay guard.
“It’s just about finding films that’s not shown often enough in a public
local cinmea pumps inspiration into community
the beloved ken cinema brings its annual frightening flick fest back to adams avenue
space,” Lorenzo said. “You want to be that place where people can go, not just watch films on Netflix at home. We want people to come here, watch it together and have a conversation after. That’s the most powerful part of our films: We can have conversations about the content we just watched.”
Along with movie screenings, Digital Gym Cinema offers workshops
for aspiring filmmakers to hone in techniques and improve their craft. It also provides a space to complete their projects. After the production is done, they can show their finished work in the theater in front of a live audience. For those who may not necessarily have the means, Digital Gym provides the resources and platform needed to achieve their goal.
Digital Gym Cinema reaches its education of film making to the youth as well. The cinema is currently holding registration for a fall K-12 camp that teaches kids how to communicate their ideas using the basic tools and
techniques of media arts. Campers get to learn how to use equipment and software to help get their message across.
“We teach them on the fundamentals of filming, editing and sound design.” Lorenzo said. “But at the end of the day, most important tool and things to be teaching young people is to initiate storytelling and how to initiate
good storytelling techniques through additional media.”
The cinema is a friendly new neighbor of El Cajon Boulevard as it sits in between the Tiger! Tiger! tavern and Coffee and Tea Collective cafe. Perhaps some have peeked into the building during a visit to one of the two. Though it might look like an ordinary community center, it’s more than it looks. Whether it’s through film screenings or film production workshops, Digital Gym Cinema provides an exciting social space for visitors to interact with the community at large.
Scary flicks return to Landmark theater
#kEncInEmA
One highly recommended production is “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” playing Oct. 25 and Nov. 1. The Rocky Horror experience is provocatively entertaining at Ken Cinema, regardless of whether you’re a veteran or newcomer.
The beloved cult film featuring everyone’s favorite “sweet transvestite from Transexual, Transylvania” is accompanied by interactive performances by the “Crazed Imaginations” Shadow Cast. Audiences
are also welcome to participate in the on-screen callback action. Plus, who wouldn’t want to see Meat Loaf on a motorcycle?
The best part is that tickets are only $8.50. If you didn’t know before, now you know, so head over for a “late-night, double-feature picture show” fix at Ken Cinema.
“We are Witnessing, from our side, a community in transition. this community is groWing not just in economic variance but certainly ethnic variance. thats an important thing to have a pulse on. ” - phil lorenzo
midnight movie madness is an october tradition anticipated by residents and halloWeen fanatics in the area.
CROSSWORDS
ACROSS1 18th Greek letter6 Instagram account creator10 Gunpowder container13 Contest submission14 Campus sports gp.15 Call, retro-style16 Symbol of a good try18 To be, to Cato19 Just okay20 Place to apply gloss21 Use unwisely, as time22 Movie for all26 Organ near the stomach29 Playground threat32 Rips
33 Clash of clans34 Ornamental pond fish35 JFK postings36 Straight-A student’s bane38 Show sleepiness39 Christmas tree40 Follow one’s new job, in Realtor-speak41 Private student42 Go up alone44 Persian Gulf ships45 “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” author48 Gaze intently50 Before, to Frost51 Like skyscrapers55 Bee flat?56 Noted O.J. Simpson attorney
59 Bone-dry60 Bartlett cousin61 Like the man of one’s dreams62 Marry63 ‘‘Yeah, sure!’’64 Tractor maker
DOWN1 Goes out with2 Data3 Classic Pontiacs4 “Won’t you be my neighbor?” TV host5 Nautical consent6 Not up to the job7 Check (out)8 Musical skill9 Singer in an interrogation room?10 Musical inspired by “The Taming of the Shrew”
11 Fort Worth-to-Dallas direction12 Merriment15 Passed out cards17 Caramel-topped custard dessert21 Like some very bad pitches23 Legal matter24 God, in Grenoble25 Reasons for school absences26 Sheet music quintet, and with 31-Down, what the first letters of 16-, 22-, 36-, 45- and 56-Across represent27 Danger28 “Seinfeld” co-creator30 Farther down31 See 26-Down33 Progressive Insurance spokeswoman36 “Dracula” star Lugosi37 Furrow the fields38 Christmas season40 Part on stage41 Muscle spasm43 Destroy, as files44 Premium plane seat, usually46 Pee Wee in Brooklyn47 Upright48 “Pygmalion” playwright49 Radial __52 Out of the wind53 Goneril’s father54 Country singer Lovett56 Source of DVD warnings57 Easy throw58 Help out
NEWSPAPERS:
Celebrating 100 years of student journalism
Like the Internet,but with inkand paper.
12 The back page oct. 23 - 26, 2014 • tHE DAILY AZtEcEDItor: kelly hillock • [email protected]
Christine WhitmanStaff Writer_____________________________________
There’s an awesome new movie in theaters that you are just dying to see. These days, going to the
movies is more of a mission. You pack all your friends in into one car and drive 15 minutes to the closest movie theater. But going to the movies has a lot of unforeseen conditions and circumstances. For example what kind of person you are determines when you leave the house. Are you the type of person that wants to see the previews or are you the type of person who wants to skip all the previews, and go straight to your feature presentation?
After figuring that out, you find your way to the ticket booth and tell the attendant which movie you’d like to see. Depending on how old you look and whether or not the movie is rated-R, they may ask for your I.D — which is cool when you’re 17, but not so cool when you’re 20. Afterwards the attendant looks at you and says, “That will be $12.50.” You look at them as you have a mini-heart attack over the ridiculous rise in ticket prices. You think back to when you were little and movies were only five dollars — ah, those were the days. After your slight outrage you pay the attendant, grab your ticket, and walk away wondering why you just spent so much money on a movie that has a fifty percent chance of being
#pAsstHEpopcorn
Adventures at the moviesgood. Think of all the burritos you could have bought with that money.
You walk into the theater and immediately smell butter-soaked popcorn coming from the concession stand. Then it hits you, did you remember to sneak food into the theater? If you did remember, congratulations, but if you didn’t the next five minutes can go one of two ways. You can stand in
line and buy popcorn that will probably amount to $20, remember tickets are not the only things that have skyrocketed in price. Or you can walk straight to your select theatre number holding your breath at an attempt to resist the salty temptation.
After getting into the theater you and your friends try to look for a decent seat. Depending on when the movie came out or its hype, the theater can be completely full causing you to sit in the front —
hopefully it’s not a horror film. Maybe the theater is completely empty which means laughing as loud as you want. After sitting down hopefully everybody remembers to silence their cell phones after seeing about four consecutive reminders on the screen. The movie starts and you feel yourself going deaf because of the supreme surround sound that envelops the room. Hopefully you didn’t bring that friend that talks nonstop during the movie —we all have them. And if you’re lucky you won’t have to pee during the movie because there’s always a terrible chance of missing an important scene. Hopefully, you are all wearing jackets because for some reason movie theaters are always negative eight degrees.
Finally the movie is over, and everyone walks out and either feels excited that you spent $12.50 on an astounding movie that you won’t stop talking about for weeks, or you walk out feeling disappointed you spent so much money on possibly the worst movie you’ve ever seen. But the real question is why do we still go to movies if there are so many things that could go wrong? Going to the movies is an adventure. Movies let us escape our responsibilities even it it’s only for two hours. Movies are exciting and allow us to discover new concepts and ideas. As a nation, I don’t think we’re ever going to stop going to the movies, but hopefully theaters don’t continue raising prices!
But the real question is why do we still go to movies if there are so many things that could go wrong?
HoroscopEHAppY BIrtHDAY (10/23/14) - This is your year! With the Sun, Venus, and today's New moon/Solar eclipse in your sign, your personal power expands. Use communications and networking to rake in the gold. Responsible management leads to a rise in professional status. make hay while the sun shines, while planning future connections. chase your passionate dream. imagine the world you want.
HoW It WorKs: 10 is good, 1 is bad.
ArIEs (march 21 - April 19) - Today is a 9 - Pay attention to shared resources and finances over the next six months, with today's New moon Solar eclipse and Venus in sensual Scorpio. create or renew your partnership by making bold declarations of your passion.tAurus (April 20 - may 20) - Today is a 9 - Become an expert on compromise and collaboration over the next six months, with today's New moon Solar eclipse with Venus in Scorpio. Stoke romantic fire. Form and strengthen partnerships. Network and build community infrastructure. Share resources and connections.GEmInI (may 21 - June 21) - Today is a 9 - one door closes and another opens regarding work, service and health with this New moon Solar eclipse. completion fosters creativity. The moon, Sun and Venus in spicy Scorpio add some flavor to the stew. Take an ancient pathway.cAncEr (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 9 - Fall in love all over again. A new phase in romance, amusement and your pursuit of happiness arises with today's New moon Solar eclipse (and Virgo) in Scorpio. Get swept off your feet by someone's magnetism and charisma.LEo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 9 - Today's New moon Solar eclipse heralds an ending that leads to a new beginning at home. What's best for your family? The next six months favor home renovation or relocation, and structural support for household changes.VIrGo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 9 - you have no shortage of talent. With this New moon Solar eclipse, plus Venus, in Scorpio, a new educational phase sets the course for the next six months. clarify the focus of your studies and research. Pursue your passion.LIBrA (Sept. 23 - oct. 22) - Today is a 9 - A turning point arises with this New moon Solar eclipse regarding income and finances. Venus, the Sun and moon in Scorpio add a potent love potion to the brew. Season your work with passion.scorpIo (oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 9 - Re-discover your sexy side. A new six-month phase in personal power and charisma dawns. Get flirtatious with this New moon Solar eclipse. The next month with Venus in Scorpio (plus Sun and moon) you're especially attractive. sAGIttArIus (Nov. 22 - dec. 21) - Today is a 9 - Self-esteem increases with peace and relaxation. Begin a new stage in spiritual discovery and personal transformation with this Scorpio New moon Solar eclipse. meditate and consider what you most want.cAprIcorn (dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 9 - For the next month with Venus in Scorpio, new status leads to new friends. With today's New moon Solar eclipse also in Scorpio, begin a new level in teamwork and group participation. Go for sassy fun and playful collaboration.AquArIus (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 9 - Take on new responsibility over the next six months, for a rise in status with Venus and the New moon Solar eclipse in Scorpio. Pass a test or challenge for a new phase in your career.pIscEs (Feb. 19 - march 20) - Today is a 9 - Begin a new adventure with Venus, the Sun and New moon (Solar eclipse) in Scorpio. expand your territory, and travel uncharted waters. Set long-range goals over the next two days. embark on educational exploration.
HoW to pLAY: complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9.
DIffIcuLtY LEVEL: 2 / 4
cRoSSWoRdS, SUdokU, ANd hoRoScoPeS coURTeSy oFtrIBunE mEDIA sErVIcEs Inc., ©2014.
GAme SolUTioNS AVAilABle oNliNe ATtHEDAILYAZtEc.com
suDoKu
PLEASE NOTE: the views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily aztec. express your concerns by emailing [email protected]
#DAsnApsHots
ELEcTrifyiNg EvENiNg Staff photographer Andy Farra captured this stunning photo of campus after dark.
