Entertainment

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024: Redefining Beauty Through Inclusivity 

By  Hellen Barrantes

Victoria's Secret: these words transport you to a brand known internationally, often evoking memories of the famous fashion shows that used to be held annually. Victoria's Secret, a brand specializing in women’s lingerie and underwear, was founded in 1977 by Roy and Gaye Raymond. The idea came to Mr. Raymond after a failed attempt to buy lingerie for his wife. He envisioned creating a women’s underwear store designed to make men comfortable while shopping. However, over the years, the brand has taken a different approach, focusing more on inclusivity and the convenience of various demographics.

The Victoria's Secret fashion show became iconic due to its models, who were known for their unattainable and, at times, unhealthy physiques. These women were famously referred to as "angels", a term tied to the models who signed contracts with the brand. These "Victoria’s Secret angels" embodied the ultra-thin, hegemonic beauty standards of the 1990s and 2000s. The show gained immense popularity, attracting millions of viewers and generating substantial revenue. The lingerie featured was often extravagant, emphasizing luxury, elegance, and sensuality. However, in 2019, for the first time, the show was canceled due to a combination of controversies and budget constraints. This hiatus extended for several years, with the show only making its return in 2024.

The controversies leading to the cancellation stemmed from the show’s portrayal of "unreal perfection." By 2018, the fashion industry was undergoing significant changes, with audiences demanding greater diversity in body types, gender identities, and overall representation. Social minorities—including individuals with non-ultra-thin bodies and members of the LGBTQ+ community—called for inclusion on the runway. 

However, Ed Razek, the show’s owner and producer at the time, sparked backlash with controversial comments. Razek publicly stated that "fat" people would not walk in the show because, according to him, no one wanted to see that. He also dismissed the inclusion of transgender individuals, claiming that Victoria's Secret represented a "fantasy." These remarks drew widespread criticism,  prompting models associated with the show to speak out in favor of representation. Following the controversy, Razek resigned from his position.

Bayside High School senior Sabrina Lin mentions, “Social media, especially with Victoria’s Secret photo editing or Instagram, can make you doubt yourself with unrealistic posts.” 

Additionally, Bayside High School Environmental Science Teacher Mr. Alverio advises, “Don’t compare yourself with the pictures you see online. What’s important is that you take care of yourself and your health.”

To everyone’s surprise, the Victoria's Secret fashion show returned in 2024, featuring top models and "angels" from both current and past eras. This year’s show embraced the representation audiences had long sought: plus-size models, transgender women, and even older women, all firsts for the brand. While some opposed this inclusion, arguing that walking the runway requires adherence to high standards, many others celebrated the progress. The evolution of the show reflects a broader societal shift toward inclusivity and diversity. It sends a powerful message that beauty comes in many forms and ages.

For many, this transformation represents a significant step toward greater acceptance and visibility in the fashion industry. The new direction of Victoria's Secret is not just a response to changing societal expectations but also a reaffirmation that beauty is multifaceted and universal.

A Biographical Lense : Lean on Me Movie Review

By  Tazrian Taimur

The iconic 1989 film Lean On Me, directed by John G. Avildsen, is based on the true story of Joe Louis Clark. The movie is centered on a troubled high school grappling with issues like gang violence and drug abuse. It is revealed that if 75% of the students fail to pass the New Jersey Minimum Basic Skills Test, the school will be taken over by the state government. In desperation, the mayor sought help from Dr. Frank Napier, the school superintendent, who decided to hire Joe Clark. A former teacher at Eastside High School, Clark was brought in as principal to reform the school and raise student performance. However, he employed harsh and unconventional tactics to achieve his goals.

Throughout the film, Clark implements several significant changes. In his first staff meeting, he demands that teachers identify students involved in activities like drug use or gang violence, insisting that they assert authority and establish control. One of his notable initiatives was creating a tutorial program to improve student performance after discovering that too few students had passed the practice test. Clark also gave a second chance to a previously expelled student who had been involved with drugs, demonstrating his belief in rehabilitation. Under his leadership, 75% of the students passed the New Jersey Minimum Basic Skills Test.

Despite his successes, Clark faced significant criticism, particularly from parents like Ms. Barrett, whose child was expelled. Barrett voiced concerns over the 300 students Clark expelled for being drug dealers or delinquents. Clark responded by emphasizing the importance of focusing on the school’s performance and supporting the students striving to succeed.

Although Clark’s methods were harsh, his impact on the students was undeniable. When the Paterson Board of Education attempted to remove him from his position, students rallied for his release after he was arrested for violating safety codes. Clark’s dedication to his students’ success extended to his staff, whom he criticized for failing to adequately prepare students for their futures. This highlights the critical relationship between teachers and students and the profound influence educators can have on young lives.

The film was recommended by Mr. Gandjian, a physics teacher at Bayside High School, who shared his perspective: “Discipline is an important factor in students maintaining enthusiasm for school in general, but it needs to come from a place of caring and not power-hungry.”

While Lean On Me tackles serious themes, it also has its lighter moments. Some actions in the film may seem excessive, such as assigning detention for failing to sing the school song or sending Mr. Darnell to the principal’s office while he was simply picking up trash as students sang. However, the film’s basis in real-life events provides a deeper understanding of its narrative.

Morgan Freeman delivered a standout performance as Principal Clark, capturing the character’s complexity with pride and authenticity. Overall, Lean On Me is a compelling film, praised for its strong acting and impactful storytelling.