Project Hail Mary Review 

By Atlanta Porter 

4/9/26

“Project Hail Mary”, a film directed by both Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, creates a mixture of a deep sci-fi fiction combined with emotional storytelling and stars the talented Ryan Gosling as the lead. Based on Andy Weir's bestselling novel, the film follows former science teacher Ryland Grace, alone on a spaceship with no memory of what came before. The only information he was left with is he is the key to saving the earth. 

As Grace begins to regain his memory, he discovers what he was there to do. He was tasked with the mission of preventing extinction on Earth. What starts as a tense and confusing beginning becomes more unexpected as it continues. The story becomes heartfelt and emotional, focusing on bonds and relationships while still managing to keep viewers interested with the realism of space exploration. 

Gosling's performance stands out from his previous works by being both humorous and showing exactly what it means to be human. He manages to bring out relatability to a character put in extreme circumstances and could have easily been overshadowed. Critics have praised his comedic timing mixed with emotional depth. 

David Sims, a critic and well-known columnist for The Atlantic, describes the character of Ryland Grace the best. “Grace feels like an ordinary person forced into an extraordinary circumstance,”  said Sims. 

Visually, the film was satisfying and attention-grabbing. The film captured the vastness of space with detailed production while showing how isolated Grace was made to feel. The film focused on using real scientific concepts, making the movie seem less impossible. 

However, Project Hail Mary had small issues like slow pacing and feelings of predictability. These are the moments that bring out comfort for its viewers and are what make this movie rewatchable. Even the slower parts of the film can be ignored because of the beautiful scenery and the hope it gives to the watchers, making them root for Grace and the unlikely friendship he obtains. 

Overall, “Project Hail Mary” is a successful box office hit, and it is clear why audiences connect with it. The feel-good film stands out not only for its impressive visuals and interesting storyline but also for its ability to balance both scientific realism and emotional storytelling. The feel-good tone of the movie shows that humanity's greatest strength lies within friendship, connection, and problem-solving skills, even in the most difficult situations. Throughout the film, viewers are reminded that collaboration and trust can overcome any fear and isolation. It is because of this that the movie leaves a lasting impression, giving its audience both hope and inspiration. “Project Hail Mary” is ultimately a film that can be enjoyed by a wide audience and is well-suited for a memorable family night. 

The Expansion: Slice 2.0… and 3.0

By Shaye Casey 

Surely if you live in the 864, you've heard the name ‘The Slice’, but what about Slice 2.0? The Slice is an Italian pasta and New York-style pizzeria, and this past year, they recently expanded from just Simpsonville, SC to Fountain Inn, SC. Rumor has it that they’re even opening a location in Greer, SC! Their Instagram posted a “3.0 loading soon,” hint to their followers, and locals say that the location will be in Greer. While the original hype around the original location still holds, the newer spots, especially in Fountain Inn and the upcoming Greer location, are starting to shape how people see it! 

For many, the food itself is still the draw. 

“Their pizza is hands down the best in the 864! It's delicious, Brooklyn, New York style pizza.” 9th-grade admin, Aaron Shaw, said. 

Others had stronger opinions on what the best kind was, like junior Danika Steadman said, “I love their pepperoni pizza. It's so good!” 

Many of their reviews on Google also mention how their pizza is “the best Brooklyn-style pizza in the area.” The consistent answers on how good the food is make one thing clear: The Slice isn't trying to change what pizza is; they’re just doing it well enough that people keep on coming back. 

Location-wise, that's where things start to differ. Shaw prefers the Fountain Inn location due to it being more convenient. While Steadman pointed out a key difference between the two locations, “The Fountain Inn Slice is definitely closer, but the Simpsonville location is much bigger, and I like the rooftop seating area.” The rooftop definitely adds a different kind of experience. It's more of a hangout spot, while the Fountain Inn Slice is more of a grab-and-go situation. 

When it comes to the upcoming Greer location, excitement is in the middle. Shaw admitted he's “not really” excited, while Sophomore Lila Armstrong had a more open take on it, “It should be cool to see how it looks compared to the other locations. I like going up to Greer sometimes for the day, so to have a good pizza spot up there is nice.”  That curiosity shows something important. People aren’t just expecting a copy and paste of the other two locations; they want something new. 

  When walking into The Slice 2.0, one of the first things that stands out is the energy. It feels busy but in a good way. It's a place that people actually want to visit. The environment is clean and modern, but still a casual pizza place. Normally, when you go inside, you see staff interacting with patrons and giving off a welcoming vibe. 

The Slice 2.0 isn’t just another restaurant that's trying to change Fountain Inn; it’s a sign of how quickly the town is growing and leveling up on its businesses. With strong support from the community, standout pizza, and service people can actually remember, it sets a high standard for what local small business dining can look like. The Slice isn’t just a part of the town’s progress; it's helping lead it!

  Dutch Bros comes to Mauldin!

By Hadley Myers

4/14/26

A new coffee sensation has officially touched down in Mauldin, SC, and for locals who love creative beverages, this arrival is a genuine game-changer.

While the Southeast is no stranger to coffee chains, Dutch bros brings a distinct West Coast energy that is quickly transforming it from a national trend into a South Carolina staple. 

The original Dutch Bros was a pushcart established in 1992 by brothers Dane and Travis Boersma in downtown Grants Pass, Oregon.

 What truly makes Dutch Bros stand out from typical drive-thru experiences is its high-energy atmosphere. 

From the moment you pull into the lane, you're greeted by workers whose upbeat energy is as potent as the fun drinks. 

The service is famously fast, but it's the personal touch, energy, and genuine conversations.

That makes the experience feel more like a community hangout instead of a transaction. 

 Dutch Bros has a variety like iced coffee, hot coffee, chai, shakes, smoothies, iced teas, double-blended coffee, lemonade, and energy drinks.

 With inclusions like boba, candy straws, sweet cream in many flavors, sparkles, and sprinkles. For a list, you can visit their website online or their app! 

On my first visit, I ordered a double-blended pineapple-blue raspberry lemonade with strawberry popping boba. 

It is known to be sweet but savoury, and way more customizable than what you would imagine. 

The experience extends to their snack menu as well, featuring their famous “muffin tops" and granola bars for a quick bite to go! 

However, the lasting impression isn't just the sugar or the caffeine; it's the hospitality. Every staff member made the visit feel personal, ensuring the first visit isn't the last. 

Whether you're seeking a mid-day energy surge or a colorful new experience to brighten your day, Dutch Bros Mauldin is a destination worth the drive. 

For me, this was only the beginning of what promises to be many more visits. 

Is Avatar: Fire and Ash Really All That? 

By Kensley Woods 

April 15, 2026

“Avatar: Fire and Ash” has been released in theaters for a while now, and there are mixed feelings in the reviews. Many argue that it was the weakest sequel of the whole Avatar franchise so far. 

Other reviews say that the movie’s visual effects, scenery, and production are the highlights. The storyline is a continuation of the aftermath and conflicts in “Avatar: The Way of Water” that have yet to be resolved, but along the way, the Mangkwan clan stirs the pot, and war starts between the sky people and the clans.

Dec. 19 of 2025, was the date that “Avatar: Fire and Ash” was released. It is currently the third movie within James Cameron’s Avatar trilogy. Upon its release, it grossed around 1.486 billion worldwide. It also includes 3,500 visual effects, along with the help of CG and practical effects by actors. The film is created by capturing the actors' performances through facial expressions, emotions, and body movements, which are transferred to digital models of the characters, which is a significant difference from the first movie. It follows the continuation of Avatar: The Way of Water after the Sully family leaves the Omaticaya clan to escape the RDA.

Looking into the opening sequence of events, the Sully family still faces consequences and changes in dynamics after Neteyam’s death and war with the RDA, and even as Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang) hunts down Spider (Jack Champion) and Jake Sully (Sam Worthington). They still mourn the loss of Neteyam and regret ever leaving their home of the Omatikaya clan, as they currently stay with the Metkayina Clan, as observed in the previous movie. Dealing with their current conflicts, it only gets worse when they encounter the Mangkwan clan; the Sky People side with the Mangkwan clan out of political conflict and power. A war rises between the allied Metkayina and Omatikaya and the Sky People, who are allied with the Mangkwan.

Avatar: Fire and Ash starts with an opening scene of Lo’ak (Britain Dalton) and Neteyam (Jamie Flatters) flying together on Ikrans in Lo’ak’s subconscious state of a dream. During the encounter, Neteyam asks Lo’ak how he died, and Lo’ak tells him he got shot, as seen in the previous movie. Lo’ak apologizes to his older brother, but he still blames himself for his death. After that moment, it is portrayed how not only Lo’ak, but the Sully family as a whole, still grieves and mourns Neteyam. During this time of mourning, there are still tensions that linger between the family. Viewers mention how Jake Sully blames Lo’ak for Neteyam’s death because of his disobedience, but he also blames himself for lacking the ability to protect his family. Similarly, Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) blames Jake for Neteyam’s death for his decision of leaving their home of the Omatikaya clan and also not protecting the family.  

As the family mourns, conflict is still on the rise with the RDA (Resources Development Administration) and the people of Pandora, who are threatened by colonization, which later intensifies as the RDA sides with the Mangkwan clan (Ash People), which is led by Varang (Oona Chaplin). 

There are many important elements that make this movie exceptionally film-worthy, especially considering the cinematography by Russell Carpenter, who also worked on Avatar: The Way of Water, is mostly virtual production with 3D effects and a hybrid of live-action and photorealistic CGI. This is made possible with the application of high frame rates and advanced virtual cameras. This allows the motions to be smoother and to capture sharp action sequences. As the director, Cameron resorts to a dual-camera rig that has refined beam splitters to present natural human eye movement and close-up or intimate frames. Many critics agree that the visual effects definitely enhance the movie’s presentation and how the actors portray and carry out the plot.

A review was made of the movie and recognized on RottenTomatoes, commenting on the results overall. “Avatar: Fire and Ash is a triumph of visuals, action, and emotional sincerity. James Cameron once again proves that blockbuster cinema doesn’t have to be hollow to be thrilling,” Jonathan Sim stated in a viewing from ComingSoon.net, leaving 8/10 tomatoes. Overall, Sim reflects positively on the visual effects, exciting plot, and the expression of deep emotions by actors. On the other hand, a review also recognized on Rotten Tomatoes comments on the opposite, highlighting the negative points of the movie. “Undone by a lack of humour and self-awareness, poor dialogue, and incomprehensible third act action sequences, Avatar: Fire and Ash is the weakest installment of James Cameron's trilogy,” Rohan Naahar stated from The Long Take Podcast. Naahar focuses more on the negatives of this movie, mentioning the heavy load of grief and violence, which takes away humor, unacknowledgement of action and effects on others, low quality of speech and communication between characters, and a high-stakes climax with impulsive actions.

Agreeing with Sim, there are great pointers for the movie, like its improvement of visuals that serve as a contrast from the first movie, and a rollercoaster of scenes with intense action and violence, especially during the battle fought in the air on Ikrans to fight against the Mangkwan, and the battle fought in the water against the Mangkwan and RDA. Many sincere and meaningful moments of emotion were shed between the characters, especially for Neytiri, Jake, Kiri, and Lo’ak. There are scenes showing the actors’ vulnerability, grief, self-doubt, blame, or even hatred. The experienced acting skills effectively capture the depth of the plot and the crucial effects of conflict. Nahaar also made valid points, though the lack of humor shows the more serious and troubled side of the characters and also highlights their flaws and struggles that may be internal and external. Around the climax and falling action of the film, there were many third-act action sequences that weren’t well thought out and were random. There were some points in the plot that didn’t make sense or were very sudden and unexpected, such as near casualties and actual deaths. So far, it would seem that “Avatar: Fire and Ash” is the weakest of the Avatar trilogy compared to “Avatar: Pandora” and “Avatar: The Way of Water.”

Overall, “Avatar: Fire and Ash” is an acceptable and dramatic movie considering the performance and honorable acting skills, enhanced graphics and technology that improve visuals that capture actions and emotions, and an eventful plot. There are a few downsides showing what the movie lacks, as expressed by reviews and comparison to the previous movie, but these flaws further point out the depth of the plot and developments and conflicts between and inside characters themselves. The ending with sudden actions and scenes was not well thought out and doesn’t provide a clear path or guidance for viewers to imagine for the next movie. It seems that the plot was simply addressing previous conflicts and potentially seeing how they get worse over time. The question is, can this plot really carry on for the next movie planned to release in 2029? Still, with a strong plot, visuals, and talented actors, James Cameron successfully directed this movie with a meaningful impact on viewers with high praise and criticism.

A Night at Jianna 

By Camila Rocha-Casas 

April 13, 2026 

Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, Jianna is a Michelin-recommended Italian restaurant known for its savory dishes and famous house-made pasta. 

The restaurant originated in San Francisco, where Chef Michael Kramer worked early in his career under the guidance of Marc Valani. After Valani passed away, Kramer moved to Greenville, where he opened Jianna. The restaurant was envisioned as a “love letter” to Italy and a way to honor Valani. 

Jianna opened in March 2017, and in late 2025 received a Michelin Mention in the 2025 Michelin Guide American South Awards. 

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by welcoming staff who led us to our table. As we sat down, we were immediately brought a glass bottle of water, setting a great first impression. As I looked through the menu, I noticed that there weren’t a lot of options like your typical restaurant menu, but it made sense since Jianna is more of a specialized restaurant that focuses on quality, putting time and care into each dish they prepare. 

We started the night by ordering an appetizer called the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, which was described as containing watercress, toasted almonds, blueberry coulis, and Pecorino Romano. The dish took around 15 minutes. The presentation of the dish looked so delicately made and appeared like art rather than a dish. The flavor is light but still rich, not heavy at all. The olive oil makes it smooth, the lemon gives it that sour and tangy kick, and parmesan adds saltiness. The capers make the dish interesting by adding a pop in your mouth. 

I then ordered the Gemelli, and it was delicious. The dish comes with chicken ragu, sundried tomato, Montasio cheese, and chili breadcrumbs. The pasta twists hold on to the sauce really well, so every bite I took was full of so much flavor. The houseaid-pasta is creamy and soft, making the dish overall exceptional. The sauce is creamy but not overpowering, and just fits in with the pasta really well. The tomato added tanginess to the dish and was honestly one of my favorite additions. But what stood out to me the most was the way the chicken was prepared. I am personally not a huge fan of chicken, but the way the chicken was prepared really pulled the whole dish together. The cut reminded me of shredded chicken, but finer. It had such a smooth texture that it almost melted in my mouth. It wasn’t too salty but full of so much flavor. 

My mom got the spaghetti TBG. The spaghetti was cooked to perfection. Right away, the garlic stood out to me, giving it a strong, savory base without being overpowering. The roasted tomatoes add a slightly sweet, rich taste that balances everything out, and the basil brings a fresh touch that keeps it from feeling too heavy. The Grana Padano on top adds a salty and has a slightly nutty flavor that ties it all together. 

My dad ordered the Fusilli Al Nero Di Seppia, which was the most unique dish on the table. It came with English peas, Sicilian pistachios, and pesto Genovese. The black pasta immediately stands out, and the name actually means fusilli with cuttlefish ink. It had a seafood flavor, with a salty, lightly briny taste that wasn’t overpowering. In addition to the pasta was the shrimp. The shrimp size was perfect, and the flavor wasn’t overwhelming. It was cooked really well and didn't have a strong seafood flavor, but instead was garlicky and salty, which is the perfect addition to accompany the spaghetti. The pesto added a delicious, fresh, and herby taste to the dish, while the pistachios gave it a bit of texture. Overall, it’s different, but in a good way, especially if you like seafood; it’s flavorful without being too strong. 

Receiving a Michelin Mention in the 2025 Michelin Guide American South requires showcasing high-quality, noteworthy cuisine, which often highlights local ingredients and a unique culinary personality. Inspectors look for consistency, flavor, and technique over multiple visits, rather than formal and service-heavy dining. 

Some of the key requirements for receiving a Michelin mention are: the quality of ingredients, mastery of flavor and cooking techniques. Consistency is a big factor in Michelin recommendations. The restaurant must prove it is consistent in quality across all dishes and multiple visits. 

While this restaurant doesn't necessarily have a starred spot in the Michelin guide, it shows that it is a unique restaurant and offers good quality. Inspectors do not consider the ambience, service, or tableware when deciding on a star or recommendation, only focusing on what is on the plate. 

If you go eat at Jianna, you are more than likely going to try their famous house-made pasta. It is great for all pasta lovers and non-lovers since there are other options available. If you love pasta, then you can definitely tell it's a unique place.

Movie Review: People We Meet On Vacation 

By Kendall Keith 

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 

There are many new and upcoming movies and series. One of the popular movies that has recently been released is People We Meet On Vacation. 

The movie is based on the original book, People We Meet On Vacation, by Emily Henry. The film was produced by 3000 Pictures and directed by Brett Haley. This movie gained popularity on social media shortly after it was released for its romantic and funny traits. Following the release, the movie gained 17.2 million views, just during its launch weekend (Jan 9-11, 2026).

It is a “Romantic endeavor worth staying for,” RottenTomatoes, a popular review website, said.

The movie keeps its original plot, but has some changes and twists throughout the movie that were not mentioned in the book. This film stars Tom Blyth (as Alex Nilsen) and Emily Bader (as Poppy Wright), the two on-screen love interests.

The plot of this movie revolves around Poppy Wright, who is a travel writer for R&R, a major magazine that sends her to locations around the world. Her opposite-attracts best friend is Alex Nilsen. In the movie, Poppy and Alex take an annual summer trip together. After a disastrous vacation ruins their friendship, they spend two years apart before reconciling, forcing them to confront their unacknowledged romantic feelings.

The main characters in this movie were perfect. The personalities were unique but also relatable, and were played so well by the actors. The overall production of the movie was very well put together and enjoyable to watch. The storyline was easy to follow, with some unexpected twists throughout.

If you love a good summery romance movie with comedic moments, the People We Meet On Vacation movie is a must-see. Even if you are not the biggest fan of movies, I highly recommend reading the book to get a similar feel and action of the plot.

Outer Banks TV Show Review 

By Journe Pyles 

April 14, 2026

The TV show Outer Banks is a really entertaining mix of adventure, mystery, and drama that makes you want to keep watching. It takes place in a beach town in North Carolina where there’s a big divide between two groups: the rich “Kooks” and the working-class “Pogues.” This difference causes a lot of drama and conflict throughout the show, which is one of the main reasons it stays interesting. 

The story mainly follows John B, who is trying to figure out what happened to his dad, who went missing. He teams up with his friends JJ, Pope, and Kiara, and together they go on this crazy journey to find a hidden treasure connected to his dad. Along the way, they deal with fights against the Kooks, getting chased, and a bunch of dangerous situations. There’s always something going on, so it never really gets boring. 

One of the best parts of Outer Banks is definitely the friendships. The Pogues are super loyal to each other and always stick together, no matter what happens. That makes you root for them because they feel real and actually care about each other. There’s also some relationship drama, especially between John B and Sarah, who is a Kook. This makes things even more complicated because they come from totally different sides. 

Another thing I like about the show is how fast-paced it is. There’s always action going on, like chase scenes, new clues, or plot twists you don’t expect. It’s the kind of show where you watch one episode and then end up watching a bunch more without realizing it. Sometimes it can be a little unrealistic because the characters go through a lot and somehow keep making it out okay, but it still makes the show more exciting. 

The setting is also really cool. The beaches, boats, and overall vibe make it feel like summer all the time, which fits the story really well. It also makes the show stand out compared to other teen dramas because it feels more adventurous. 

There is some violence, language, and risky scenes in the show, so it’s not really kid-friendly, but for teens, it’s pretty relatable in terms of friendships and trust, just more dramatic. 

Overall, Outer Banks is a really fun show to watch. It has a good mix of action, mystery, and drama, and it keeps you hooked the whole time. I feel like the main reason people keep watching is that they want to see what happens next and if the Pogues actually reach their goal and finally get the treasure they’ve been searching for the whole time. Another reason people like the show is because of the characters’ personalities and how different they all are. JJ is reckless but loyal, Pope is smart and determined, and Kiara is caring and brave. These differences make the group more interesting and fun to watch. Even though the show can be over the top at times, it still does a great job keeping viewers interested.

With Heaven On Top

By Angelica Schiro

4/8/26 

The rise of Zach Bryan has been fueled not by traditional promotion, but by authenticity and word of mouth discovery.

“I was in the car when one of my friends had told me to listen to this one song by Zach Bryan and then I just started to listen to more music by him and just fell in love,” sophomore Gia Castiglia said. 

For many fans, including new ones, Bryan’s music appears almost by accident, surfacing through playlists and recommendations before quickly becoming something much more personal. That connection continues to drive the success of his latest project, 'With Heaven On Top.' Unlike heavily produced mainstream tracks, Bryan’s songs feel unfiltered, which allows fans to connect with the emotions behind them. However, not every aspect of Bryan’s music resonates equally with all listeners. Some note that his spoken-word or poem-style tracks, while meaningful, don’t always feel like traditional songs.

“His music is good, but I'm not the biggest fan of how it sounds like a poem.” Castiglia said. 

As Bryan prepares for live performances, anticipation continues to build. Concertgoers say they are most excited to hear their favorite songs performed live, along with the atmosphere that comes from sharing those moments with other fans. 

           “I can't wait to see him, and be able to dress up even, like really be able to hear all his songs live,” Castiglia said. 

          Unlike many mainstream country albums, “With Heaven On Top” leans heavily into emotion rather than commercial appeal. Themes like love, heartbreak, addiction, and personal growth run throughout his album, reflecting Bryan’s own life experiences. Critics describe the album as a deeply introspective work, capturing the weight of fame and the struggle to remain authentic while under the spotlight. 

       Songs like 'Plastic Cigarette' and 'Say Why' highlight Bryan’s storytelling style, blending acoustic sounds with his personal lyrics. 

        The album also opens with spoken-word poetry, setting a reflective tone that carries through each track. Many songs were inspired by his life on the road, with Bryan painting scenes of diners, long drives, and quiet moments of self-reflection. Rather than chasing perfection, he embraces imperfections, leaving in raw vocals and minimal production to maintain authenticity. Bryan doesn't just deliver another album; he delivers a statement. Yes, other artists lean towards perfection, but Bryan leans towards vulnerability, proving that sometimes the most powerful music comes from simply telling the truth.

  “I think Zach Bryan sticks out more than most artists due to his relationships with his songs and how many people can actually relate to his songs, whereas other artists make songs just for it to be catchy,” Catiglia said. 

      The release has also sparked conversation beyond the music. Some tracks reference Bryan's past relationship and personal struggles, adding another layer of honesty that fans have come to expect. Despite widespread praise for his artistry, opinions on Bryan as a public figure are more mixed. While many admire his honesty in songwriting, some listeners question elements of his personal life, showing how public perception can complicate an artist's image. 

       Still, critics tend to agree that his musical talent remains very strong. Looking ahead, fans hope Bryan continues to expand his sound while staying true to the emotional core that defines his work. Many want future projects to reflect a wider range of themes, blending heartbreak with moments of happiness and growth. This desire mirrors that Heaven On Top already attempts to capture life in its full complexity rather than focusing on a single mood.

Music Review: Rod Wave 

By Zoe Williams 

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 

Rod Wave is an extraordinary artist with over 6.8 million listeners a month. He explains his life stories, pain, and success throughout the music he makes, so why is he considered a controversial artist?  

Wave's music attracts people who are in pain, going through a heartbreak, and just in general confused. One of Wave’s biggest hits, “Heart On Ice,” speaks a lot about the pain of heartbreak and his experience through it. Part of the song says, “While at my nana's house I play on the couch, staring at the ceiling, trying not to get in my feelings. Thinking of the ways I can make these millions, maybe that'll take this pain away and clear up all these rainy days”.  In this part of the song, Wave expresses his feelings very strongly in a way some listeners understand more than others. 

Wave is controversial because his music speaks to a very specific type of listener. The way Wave grew up can only touch certain groups of people. Poverty is the perfect word to describe Waves' upbringing. In his song HG4, which was released in sept of 2023, he explains how no one thought he was ever going anywhere, let alone have a successful career that impacted millions of lives. The first line of the song is,” With the hand I was dealt with, they probably thought I’d be dead or in jail,” really goes into the fact that no one expected him to be great or anything in life. 

The New York Times wrote an article about Wave back in 2023, talking about how he has a third number one album in three years. The albums were Nostalgia, Beautiful Mind, and Soulfly. All of these albums have one thing in common: they are about heartbreak, emotional life, and success.  Wave reaches a trustworthy relationship with his fans, which causes them to have a deep connection, and since Wave has gone through all of this on his own, his fans aren't constantly having to suggest topics for him to write about. Wave's music isn’t forced, so neither is his fans' relationship with him. Critics can call his music depressing or overly negative, even repetitive, because they don't understand it as others do. 

Wave's music is a mix of consistency and growth all in one. Artists normally change their music per album; Wave's music stays but evolves with his emotions and his fans. That's what makes Wave and other artists different. In the song 25 by Wave, he explains something that we all can feel: "Social anxiety I feel, and I have been this way for some years. I don't really get along with my peers; everything that they do to me is weird.” This song shows a lot of realness when it comes to life and friends. Wave’s songs have a lot of compassion, similar to Adele's music. Each artist expresses their feelings through their songs, and they don't hold back. Which is why fans love their music, but that's what also makes Wave and Adele different. Adele has a lot more variety, but Wave sticks to the basics and lets the lyrics speak for themselves. 

  Overall, the artist might not have a lot of variety, but the lyrics tell stories and much more. Wave mixed modern-day rap and RnB and made it into something so much more beautiful. Wave's structure of song makes it easier but harder for fans and critics to understand; you have to have gone through what Wave went through or understand it. Not everyone can.

The Timeless Ache of “The Notebook” 

By Abigail Cauwenberghs

4/14/26

In an era of fast-paced digital romance, few films have managed to really put themselves out there into the cultural zeitgeist quite like Nick Cassavetes’ 2004 masterpiece, The Notebook. Returning to this film years after its release reveals not only the tear-jerking premise but also the technical and raw performance. 

The story opens with an elderly man, Duke (James Garner). Reading from a notebook to a nursing home resident (Gena Rowlands). The framing sets a reflective tone before jumping into the vibrant, humid summers of the 1940s in South Carolina. We are introduced to the connection between Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams) and Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling). 

From a technical aspect, the film's cinematography utilizes a warm and golden environment that makes the summers described feel eternal. The framing often uses the distance between the lovers, whether it's the gap of the Atlantic Ocean, WWII, or Allie's wealth compared to Noah's blue-collar reality. The lighting, particularly in the iconic scene where the two row through a pond filled with white swans, creates a dreamlike moment and transforms the film into an almost poem-like visual. 

The chemistry between the leads in the film is the strongest and most beneficial enhancement to success. Ryan Gosling delivers a performance as Noah Calhoun that shows quiet and very intense emotions while playing his role. He portrays Noah’s devotion with an intense feeling of emotion that people watching can relate to. Opposite to him, Rachel McAdams is a revelation as Allie Hamilton. McAdams captures the energy of a young woman caught between her own heart and her family's expectations. This stands out because Allie's indecisive decisions make the viewers feel sympathetic and frustrated at the same time. The supporting cast provides essential texture and different kinds of elements added to the plot. James Marsden, playing Lon Hammond Jr., brings a disruptive and tragic role to the “other man” role. His role ensures the conflict between good and evil, but between the two kinds of love within this story, it brings the uprising plot and the decisions of Allie. Allie's mother also plays a big role in being referred to as “cold” and pushing that class status of wealth on her daughter. 

Beyond the acting, the film's “special effects” are effective and mostly used to create the authentic period atmosphere. The costume design is equally vital, using Allie's wardrobe to signal her transformation from a carefree young woman to a conflicted woman of the 1940s. 

Ultimately, the Notebook avoids being a hollow “tear- jerker”; it provides a remembered cinematic film through its lead actors, endurance of memory, and the overall emotion on a person's heart watching the film. 

The Life of Owning a Horse 

By Layla Shumpert 

In Fountain Inn, many people own a pet such as a dog or a cat. Even though some people also own or grow up around horses. Horses can help someone grow as a person and learn new life skills. Anna Shumpert, a former teacher at Fountain Inn High School, has grown up around horses, even owning some herself. 

“When owning a horse, you get to have the freedom to own one and develop a strong connection,” Shumpert said. 

When owning a horse, it grants you freedom and the opportunity to grow a bond. When we have a bond with animals teaches us how to have a relationship without words. 

Owning a horse lets you have the freedom with its riding, fitness, and overall a horse’s lifestyle. Being a good and responsible horse owner is crucial for giving a horse a good life. When a horse is happy, you’ll feel happy knowing that you can take care of such a huge animal. Having a good bond makes you have motivation to continue with riding and helps you learn and grow with your horse. 

“You have to learn to read body language when with horses and purposeful with your own because you can’t force a 1200-pound animal to do something and communicate with them with subtle cues,” Shumpert said. 

Learning to have a trusted connection without using words but with actions allows you to be able to put that skill into other relationships. 

Studies have shown that when you’re able to have a relationship with an animal, it can greatly impact how you treat your other relationships. Animals help you learn to use body language and tone, and to regulate your own emotions. 

“The ability to control my emotions, clear communications, goal settings, conquering fears,” Shumpert said. 

Being in control of your emotions and having good communication greatly benefits your connection with your pets, but it is also beneficial to your relationships outside of owning a pet. 

When dealing with such huge animals, it takes time to build confidence and to build trust for both parties. When you don’t just own a horse, but have a strong bond with it. It can take months to years to build a relationship with a horse or any animal. Horses experience emotions just like humans do. And not just experiencing their own emotions, but they can feel your emotions as well and react to you, too. 

“When you own or take care of horses, there is no such thing as a day off, so it helps you learn responsibility,” Shumpert said. When it comes to a horse, you can’t just take a break. You are the one in charge of its feeding, exercise, and hygiene. Taking a day off with a horse can only take your performance and bond backwards. To continue to grow yourself and with your horse, you need to stay collected with your emotions, have motivation, and to stay constant with daily care. 

“It gives me a reason to stay in shape and an outlet for my mental health,” Shumpert said. 

Horses not only benefit your mental state but your physical state as well. Staying fit helps your confidence and form in your riding and helps your horse as well. 

Horses widely benefit people in so many ways, from physical to mental. Your mental state is just as important as your physical state when it comes to riding and caring for a horse. When you have a relationship with a horse, it can benefit you throughout your stages of life and with any relationship you have with others, including coworkers, friends, and family.

The Psychology Behind Music 

By Olivia McColley 

Monday, Feb 23, 2026 

Music is a huge aspect of everybody's day-to-day life. You can always see other people listening to music while lounging around, cooking, and even studying! It plays a key factor in everybody's day-to-day, research even suggests that it has an influence on how one thinks, feels, and acts.

“A link between personality traits and musical taste, with music from teenage years often shaping personal identity. Tastes in music vary, and many people believe that the type of music that you love to listen to might actually reveal a lot about your personality. Not only can your musical tastes say something about your personality characteristics, but your traits may play a part in the type of music you are drawn to,” an article titled “Music Preference and Your Personality,” by Verywellmind said. “Music serves a range of psychological functions. In addition to its links to personality, research has found that music is also associated with: Health, health behaviors, mood, social connection, physical activity, relaxation, cognitive functions, and even identity.” 

This further enhances the idea that music has a huge influence on our lives. 

An article titled “Why and How Music Moves Us,” by Pfizer, supports this by showing us real scientific data as to how music, weather that is signing it, dancing to it, or just listening to songs, can act as a powerful tool to manage mood, reduce stress, and intensify, or release emotions that are often hard for us to express. This is true because the experience increases positive emotions and promotes the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter connected to pleasurable feelings and emotions.

Freshman student Sebastian Alonzo Perez has conveyed numerous times how music is an outlet for him, an important part of who he is.

“That's one of those things that gets me through the day,” says Alonzo Perez.

This shows how much music can mean to a person, how it becomes a part of your life and affects it in so many different ways, motivating you through the good and supporting you through the bad. 

He also expressed how he believed music can be a big influence on who you are, and how it can be something that shapes a person for the future, who they become. 

“I think that music reflects you; you can tell a lot about someone because of their music taste.” States Alonzo Perez.

Music isn’t just a part of who a person is; it's part of how a person can feel and change their mood no matter the situation.

“I go to sleep on music. I wake up with music. I go on the bus with music. I love music. It just makes me so happy,” says Alyssa Zafferani. 

Another ninth-grade student, Aaliyah Jackson, has also talked about what music is to her, how it has given her reassurance through hard times, and allowed her to keep pushing. 

“Music helps me express my feelings. When I listen to music, it actually helps me figure out my feelings, especially when I'm sad and don't know why or how to explain it,” Jackson said. 

Listening to music is very important, not just psychologically but physically as well. It allows people to be who they want to be, it gives a sense of freedom, and gives them the opportunity to express themselves in their own unique way. 

No matter what type of music you listen to, or where you’re at now in your life, you know that, despite what the future may hold, music will always be there for you to lean on.

The Damage of High School Gossip

By Camila Rocha-Casas

Monday, Feb. 9, 2026

It starts as a whisper in the hallway, and by the end of the day, everyone knows a story that was never meant to be shared. 

Gossip is a part of daily life for many high school students, but why do students find the need to spread rumors, and what effects does it have on others? 

"If I am talking to a group of friends and they ask about something that happened, I might not really want to share it, but I do, just so we have something to talk about," said Lilly Derse, a freshman at Fountain Inn High School. 

For many students, gossip becomes a way to feel connected, and sometimes they can feel socially obligated to share a secret just to stay relevant in a conversation. 

School counselor Abby Hayes observed how social media has contributed to gossip.

"Just having the easy access to seeing only what people want you to see has led to a lot of comparison, especially with the high school student age group," Hayes said. 

Social media can be a way for people to interact and communicate, but it's not always positive interactions. Instead of lifting others up, it's a comparison game. Students use gossip as a sense of connectedness because people who aren't part of the same group can still feel like they belong through gossiping.

"When gossip isn't true, it spreads quickly and can seriously damage someone's reputation," Derse said. "People start to believe things that aren't accurate, which can cause others to see that person in a negative way."

Gossip can seriously damage friendships and break trust. When students share secrets with someone, they truly have trust in that person. Once the secret is spread, relationships can be hurt, and friends may feel offended or betrayed. Still, knowing the consequences, students see gossip as just a normal part of high school life. 

According to Hayes, gossip spikes at certain times of the year.

"After a break, there's a time lapse where students haven't seen each other, and that builds a kind of suspense," Hayes said. 

When students return from break, they're eager to find all the information they missed, and that's when rumors and assumptions begin to spread. Hayes mentions that this happens after Christmas, spring break, summer, or any long breaks when people spend time apart. 

Anger is a significant factor in gossip. In some cases, students share personal information as a form of revenge. The feeling of getting back at someone fuels high school students' emotionally immature reactions. 

Similarly, jealousy can motivate students to share personal secrets as a way to express themselves. But what's the difference between good gossip and bad gossip? Is there really a difference?

"Good gossip is the truth, things that actually happened, and just relaying truthful information that you can prove with something that actually happened. Bad gossip is making up stuff that didn't really happen," Derse said. 

Derse shared that a big difference she sees between gossip and relaying information is that good gossip is talking about someone, but not necessarily saying something negative toward them. This can include talking about something that happened or how a specific person was involved. Derse believes bad gossip is when someone talks badly about someone else while not telling the full truth or leaving out parts that complete the story.

"It's important to understand all perspectives because I do feel like gossip is subjective," Hayes said. "We need to understand what people say might not ever be true, but understanding the perspective of everybody involved."

Hayes wants students to understand that other people are impacted by what's happening. Self-awareness is a key component of the high school experience — learning that what you do in your life impacts other people. 

It's easy to think about our own perspective and only our own opinion, but it's important to take into consideration everyone else's.