‘Underworld: Rise of the Lycans’
92 MINUTES
I first fell in love with the “Underworld” series buried beneath blankets at a junior high slumber party. The plot was outrageous, the action was lightning-fast, the actors were beautiful: I was certain “Underworld” was the greatest film of all time.
Now, as a high school senior, I can’t deny I’ve toned down my enthusiasm. I admit I’ve seen better films (“Twilight,” for one) and can’t find fault with my friends’ criticisms of the series. Regardless, I practically ran into a recent screening of “Underworld: Rise of Lycans.”
The prequel picks up 1,000 years ago when Viktor, head vampire, saves and enslaves an abandoned Lycan baby. This child grows into Lucian, who goes on to escape slavery, fight battles and hook up with Viktor’s daughter … at least I think he does. To be honest, the plot was crazy and campy and didn’t make much sense. But did it have to? Does a movie with such a cultish fan base need to be an Oscar contender?
“Rise of the Lycans” was everything I wanted in an “Underworld” movie. Werewolves fought vampires. Castles exploded. I felt as fantastic as I did at that sleepover five years ago. So to anyone aching for werewolfy fun: check out “Rise of the Lycans.”
* Marisa Carroll, Walter Payton
‘The Ballads’
Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey has sold more than 200 million albums worldwide, according to nationmaster.com. She made her recording debut in 1990, and the first five singles she released hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Now, Carey has released a new CD, “The Ballads” with 18 of her best love songs. Tracks such as “Love Takes Time” and “Hero” are included on this CD.
“Love Takes Time” is one of her most famous ballads: “You might say that it’s over / You might say that you don’t care / You might say you don’t miss me / You don’t need me, but I know that you do/ And I feel that you do/ Inside.” The strong lyrics really explain the mood of the songs. A lot of people could probably relate to this wonderful CD. The lyrics and soft music could really put you in a relaxed mode.
“The Ballads” is a timeline of Carey’s famous romantic songs. And since Valentine’s Day is coming up, it would be a great gift for that special someone.
* Miguel Cedillo, Foreman
‘Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List’
BY RACHEL COHN, 192 pages
Have you ever had an unrealistic crush on your best friend? This concept is taken to the next level in “Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List” by Rachel Cohn. Naomi and Ely are best friends, but Naomi misinterprets their friendship as being something more, though her hopes of being romantically-linked to Ely will never materialize.
The two friends eventually start to compile a “no kiss list” of all the people neither one can kiss for the purpose of preventing their friendship from falling apart. The list seems to work out fine until one of the two decides to kiss someone’s significant other. This book was a delightful read. The storyline might seem a bit ridiculous and too immature for some high school students, but don’t be so easily deceived.
Despite the plot’s limitations, the writing style is remarkably entertaining.
The author takes risks that most writers wouldn’t dare take in a teen novel. I highly recommend this novel. Don’t let any prejudices prevent you from reading this book!
* Lynda Lopez, Prosser
OUT THIS WEEK
ALBUMS
Lily Allen
“It’s Not Me, It’s You”
India.Arie
“Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics”
DVDS
THE INAUGURATION OF BARACK OBAMA ON CNN
NOT RATED, $14.95
FRIDAY THE 13TH THE SERIES: THE SECOND SEASON
NOT RATED, $49.99
GAMES
SONIC’S ULTIMATE GENESIS COLLECTION
Sega of America, Inc.PS3, Xbox 360
DEADLY CREATURES
THQWii
BOX OFFICE
Last weekend’s results
1. He’s Just Not ThatInto You $27.4 million
2. Taken $20.3 million
3. Coraline 3D $16.3 million
4. Pink Panther 2 $12 million
5. Paul Blart: Mall Cop $11 million
6. Push $10.2 million
7. Gran Torino $7.4 million
8. Slumdog Millionaire $7.4 million
9. The Uninvited $6.4 million
10. Hotel for Dogs $5.8 million
Source: fandango.com
Rhona Mitra stars in the action thriller “Underworld: Rise of The Lycans.” Screen Gems
