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Stop Being A TV Snob

Jun 8, 2016Aug 15, 2018

A few weeks ago I was assisting at a photoshoot, and got talking with one of the creatives present. The small talk started light, with polite enquiries about being on-the-job and trading thoughts on current affairs. Then came the game-changer question:
“Do you watch House of Cards?”
No, I felt my breath getting shallower; I don’t really follow ‘heavy’ shows like that.
“So, what kind of shows do you watch? Breaking Bad? Scandal?”
Through a frozen smile I flippantly counted off the last few shows I remembered playing on TV, shows I wouldn’t immediately switch the channel on – The Big Bang Theory, 2 Broke Girls… “Oh I’ve recently been liking this show called The Catch!” I mustered.
To his defense, he did try to hide the natural grimace. But when I stumbled trying to answer his “Oh. What’s that?”, we both knew the conversation was over. Thumbs were twiddled in the awkward silence till we were called to get back to work; thank goodness.

That said, it’s definitely not the first time I’ve found myself in this uncomfortable situation – and all because of television. Somehow my complete disinterest in shows with deep and dark plots, psychologically tortured characters, and moody conspiracies translates into me being less of an intellectual than people who do take an active interest. There’s the blink-and-miss-it flicker of contempt the moment I mention I’d rather keep up with the Kardashians than the fifth season of Suits (it’s still not over?), or that I prefer lighthearted shows. But honestly – what’s the deal with that?

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Scandal (left) and The Catch (right) both feature strong female leads, and happen to share the same executive producer, Shonda Rhimes.

People hasten to gush over Mad Men and Game of Thrones (though I’ll admit, I’m mighty impressed by the cult status it’s grown for itself over the years) – yet nobody would ever dare confess that they watch Scream Queens. Not in public, at least. And if you openly adore a comedy series, it better be something a little more indie, like Parks and Recreation; or a classic fave like F.R.I.E.N.D.S., which no one ever seems ashamed of.

via GIPHY

So when did television shows become such a big factor in determining your circle or personality? Perhaps the rise of Netflix in recent years has something to do with it, but regardless, cultivating a false sense of elitism can only be considered an unfortunate side effect. While it’s great that broadcast entertainment is coming into its own these days, at the end of the day, that’s still just what it is – entertainment. Squealing over Chanel Oberlin and her borderline tacky comedy-horror antics in the Kappa House shouldn’t just be left to the ‘bimbos’, and isn’t an indication of not knowing how to appreciate “good” TV. Just because a storyline doesn’t involve complex characters and a hypebeast-approved colour palette, doesn’t mean that any less amount of hard work and effort went into producing it. Nor does it (always) mean there’s a lack of decent character development.
And the converse is true as well – thought-provoking drama serials that take seasons to develop and grow aren’t always the most stimulating to watch. Suits for one, had an undeniably good start and a pretty decent run; but millions clearly lost interest along the way, which resulted in finale viewership dropping from 3.47 million in Season 1 to 1.71 million at the end of Season 5. It just got tiring, having to pay such close attention to every legal jargon-filled line of dialogue.

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Image from facebook.com/SUITSonUSA
The fact is, some people just like their TV entertainment short and snappy; to be able to put on at any point in the series and not have to worry relentlessly over what they’ve missed from one skipped episode. No doubt some of the highly rated shows out there are proper works of art, with a commendable mix of nifty camera work, cinematography, plot twists and relatable characters. But can you really just have a random episode of Scandal come on and watch it with the same ease as one from Modern Family? If there’s ever a cause for applause for people who selectively watch “good” TV, it’s that they’ve managed to diligently follow through and last a good four or five seasons.
Maybe you’ve felt like me before, on the squeamish receiving end of TV snobbery; or you’ve unknowingly perpetuated it with mob mentality and unintentional body language. Either way, it’s time to leave this bizarre brand of elitism behind – because to each his or her own. I don’t hate on you for choosing to spend your time and resources on a buffet at The Line; so don’t hate on me for choosing McNuggets.

The 10 Big Beauty Facts You Need To Know

Jun 8, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Beauty doesn’t have to be difficult – it’s really all about knowing understanding and applying some basic facts, and with the essential knowledge, it’s hard to go wrong. The experts at Sasa have put together the below 10 Beauty Facts that will help guide you towards healthy, glowing skin and on-point makeup, and they’ve also thrown in some sweet deals for the products you can use to follow each fact, so there’s every excuse to go shopping. Read to the end for an additional bonus beauty tip, as well as to find out more about how to win products via Sasa Singapore’s weekly Facebook giveaways!

1. Always, always remove all your makeup before going to sleep – no excuses.
You might think you don’t need to be reminded about this, but think about it – how many times have you crashed straight into bed without ensuring there’s not a trace of makeup left on your face? We know exhaustion is hard to fight, so one way to easily make this a habit is to get a good eye and lip makeup remover that’s capable of eliminating even the most waterproof mascara, because longwearing eye and lip makeup tend to be the hardest to remove. What we like about the Sasatinnie Oatmeal Eye & Lip Makeup Remover is that it’s tough on makeup, but gentle on the skin, thanks to the moisturising and soothing properties of oatmeal.
Sasatinnie Oatmeal Eye & Lip Makeup Remover, 2 for $15 (U.P. $12.90 each).

2. Eyeshadows are the best way to open up your eyes.
Most of us are reliant on simple eyeliner, but we’ve learnt that the little extra effort to shape your eyes with eyeshadow allows for a lot more room for variety. First of all, there are all the colours and textures you can play with; and then, there are all the different places on the eye you can apply them all to shape the eye contours. The Cyber Colors Cushion Aurora Eye Pot is a mono eyeshadow that comes in a comprehensive range of shades to create every look from neutral to dramatic; its cushiony texture also makes it a dream to blend onto the skin.
Cyber Colors Cushion Aurora Eye Pot, $10.90 (U.P. $16.90).

3. Foundations aren’t just for covering up imperfections.
Whenever we’re nursing a breakout, it’s incredibly tempting to just pile on the heavy-coverage foundation without much thought except to just cover up as much as possible. But with the advancements in formulations and the wide selection of finishes and textures foundations come in these days, as long as you use them cleverly, you won’t have to end up looking like you’re wearing a foundation mask. For drier skin, go for a cream foundation like the Nouba Noubalight, which nourishes the skin while covering it with a thin film of radiant pigments; for combination or oily skin, the Nouba Staminal Foundation leaves a matte yet luminous finish to keep unwanted shine under control, while providing sufficient coverage. The trick here is to pick the right foundation for your skin type, because that will allow it to look as natural as possible; don’t forget a good finishing powder like the Nouba Soft Compact Powder, to keep it all in place the entire day.
Nouba foundation products, $43.90 to $65.90. Buy one get one free for the month of June.

4. Sheet masks make pretty good serums too.
Facial sheet masks are really intensive treatments for the skin, as they come dipped in skincare solutions so rich with ingredients that they’re essentially serums. That’s why it’s good practice to treat yourself to a mask session at least once a week, because not only does it feel real good (especially if you pop the mask in the fridge first), it gives your skin time to soak up all the good stuff. We all know the Koreans are the sheet mask experts, and the Velasecret Cellulose Mask Sheet also comes with a really cute kiss imprint on the mask, in addition to deeply moisturising and brightening the skin with bird’s nest, glacier water and eucalyptus leaf extract.
Velasecret Cellulose Mask Sheet, $39.90 for a box of 10. Purchase a second box at 50% off.

5. Always keep a smudge-proof eyeliner close.
Our pet peeve really is panda eyes courtesy of smudged eyeliner, so when a liquid eyeliner promises to be smudgeproof, we’re more than ready to welcome it into our daily lives. A pen tip makes it easy to draw on whatever shape you want, and is flexible enough to be easy to use even for eyeliner amateurs (really, it just takes regular practice to become a cat eye flick pro). One option that lives up to its hype is the GOSH Intense Eyeliner Pen, definitely a liquid eyeliner you’ll want to buy five of and stock up for everyday use.
GOSH Intense Eyeliner Pen, $15 (U.P. $21.90).

6. There’s no such thing as too many lip colours.
Lipsticks, lip glosses, lip stains, liquid lipsticks… we can never get enough. We love that the beauty industry is constantly innovating and coming up with new lip colour formats to keep us interested, and one of the latest textures that has really won our hearts is the highly-pigmented liquid lipstick. Nouba’s Shine Impact Lip Lacquer is all about high-shine lip colour, a refreshing change from the matte lip; the formula doesn’t go on gloopy, and sits comfortably on the lips with no smudging. We definitely recommend getting all four shades.
Nouba Shine Impact Lip Lacquer, $30 (U.P. $39.90).

7. For good skin, invest in a quality cleanser.
Since a cleanser is going to be something you’re using twice a day, every day, you’ll do well to make sure that you choose one with sufficient skincare benefits so your skin is well-taken care of in the long term. The Chosungah22 Fresh Ade Cleanser Peach has a sulphate-free formula and is gentle enough that it won’t irritate your skin for sure, and we love the peach scent (thanks to the 0.1% peach extract). Minerals in the carbonated water clear the skin of impurities and excess oil, while keeping the skin hydrated.
Chosungah22 Fresh Ade Cleanser Peach, $25 (U.P. $37).

8. Make a habit out of ridding your face of dead skin.
Regular exfoliation is a lot more important than a lot of people think it is. An accumulation of dead skin cells causes a dull complexion and increases the chance of clogged pores – which leads to breakouts – so a scrub a week will keep the pimples away. The Dr.G Crystal Deep Peeling uses crystal particles and natural ingredients to go in deep into the skin’s layers to clear away the dead cells, but does so gently, so there’s no need to worry about your skin getting irritated.
Dr.G Crystal Deep Peeling, $28.90. Get 20% off the first bottle purchased, and 30% off the second bottle.

9. Treat problem skin with effective anti-blemish skincare.
Solving skin woes should start from the right skincare, and not constantly covering up with layers and layers of makeup. The Neogence Skin Refining Cream and Oil Control Mattifying Fluid are from the brand’s Pore Solution Series, which is designed to control oil and sebum, dissolve blackheads, and keep bacteria production in check to minimise breakouts. If oily, blemish-prone skin is what you’ve been struggling with, you should incorporate these two into your daily skincare.
Neogence Skin Refining Cream and Oil Control Mattifying Fluid, $58 to $75. Get 20% off the first bottle purchased, and 30% off the second bottle.

10. Don’t fret over cellulite – you can bust it with the right products.
Oh, the dreaded orange peel skin. It’s actually a common affliction, manifesting even on “skinny” girls, so everyone can do with a good cellulite-buster. The Collistar Anti-Cellulite Cryo-Gel that uses a cooling effect to promote microcirculation, smoothing over the orange peel effect and toning the area at the same time. Before bed, apply the Collistar Anti-Cellulite Slimming Super Concentrate Night that tunes itself to your natural body clock, working while you rest to fight cellulite with potent active ingredients. Whoever said you have to be stuck with cellulite?
Collistar Anti-Cellulite Cryo-Gel and Anti-Cellulite Slimming Super Concentrate Night, $65.90 to $69.90. Get 20% off a 75ml Anti-Cellulite Slimming Super Concentrate Night with purchase of the Anti-Cellulite Cryo-Gel.

BONUS TIP: Keep enlarged pores out of sight with sufficient moisturising and the right makeup.
Enlarged pores are another skin annoyance that everyone’s constantly looking for a permanent solution for. We admit pores aren’t easy to deal with, so a smart solution would be to turn to a skincare brand that has established itself as a pore care expert. b.liv is one such brand, with the CC Pores Away Complexion Correcting CC Cream smoothing over enlarged pores without clogging them up, leaving a flawless and dewy finish behind and brightening the overall skin tone at the same time; also treat your skin regularly to the Immerse Me Utmost Moisture Original Japan Silk Mask, which ensures the skin is sufficiently moisturised without clogging up your pores.
b.liv CC Pores Away Complexion Correcting CC Cream, $34.95, and Immerse Me Utmost Moisture Original Japan Silk Mask, $17.95 for a box of 7 pieces.

You’re in luck, as Sasa Singapore is giving away the products mentioned in these 10 Beauty Facts on their Facebook page every Monday. Head to sasa.com.sg/10-big-beauty-facts for more details!

P.S.: Ever wanted to travel to Malacca or Kuala Lumpur on board a luxury cruise ship? Here’s your chance: Sasa Singapore is giving away a 2-Night Cruise package for two on the SuperStar Gemini! Click here to learn more.

The FRANK Presents: Bandwagon Riverboat Is Back & Better Than Ever

Jun 8, 2016Aug 15, 2018

If there’s anyone that knows music, it’s Bandwagon. So this 10 & 11 June, they’re bringing us 3 decks worth of it, live. After a sold out debut in January, FRANK Presents: Bandwagon Riverboat II is set to bring you good music and good food (Coney Dogs & Root Beer Floats, yes please) on South East Asia’s only Mississippi Riverboat! Here’s what to expect and how to get tickets:

Event Poster Bandwagon Riverboat - with texture

Due to the event’s massive popularity, the second edition has been extended to two nights, so you can expect an even bigger pool of musicians on stage. Rising star Charlie Lim will be amongst performers on the Mermaid Cove deck, where you can expect a night of acoustic and soulful tunes. Moving on up to the Pirate’s Parlour, experience the devil-may-care attitude of bands like Cockpit and Spacedays as they rock the boat, literally. But if partying all night long is the life for you, the Captain’s Deck is the place for you with beat makers like Maurice Simon and Rah to keep you dancing.
For all the food lovers, get ready to awaken your nostalgic senses as the chefs from on-board Tex-Mex diner Santa Fe and Wood & Steel Gastrobar relive old favourites from when A&W was housed on the Riverboat. Sink your teeth into the A&W Tribute menu of Coney Dogs, Cajun Calamari and Chicken Poppers, amongst others – only for $5 each! Expect Root Beer Floats too, obviously. And if you’re not too stuffed with food and want to wind down from the gigs, you can also try your hand at a range of free carnival games like Captain Hook’s Ring Toss and Giant Jenga (say what?). There’s also something called “Drunken Sailor’s Memory Game”, although we can’t say for sure how literally you’re meant to take that name. Proceed with caution, sailors.
So if you missed out at the beginning of the year, or just want to experience the Riverboat again, it’s time to grab your tickets! There won’t be any at the door once they’re sold out, so get them A.S.A.P!

FRANK Presents: Bandwagon Riverboat, 10 – 11 June 2016, held at Marina Coastal Drive, tickets from $45 – $60 (at the door, subject to availability), more information and ticket purchasing available on the Facebook Event page. bandwagon.asia

It Happened – Dr. Martens and TMNT Had A Baby (Or Four)

Jun 8, 2016Aug 15, 2018

What’s green, a tad obnoxious, and makes an epic addition to stomp-y footwear? Why, a Dr. Martens collaboration with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, of course. Love or hate them, there’s no denying you definitely caught these Saturday morning cartoon staples at least once in your younger years; and here they’ve stuck. Available only in Kids’ sizes, the collection pays tribute to the childhood classic with four original boots designed to represent the personality of the individual brothers – Leonardo, Michaelangelo, Donatello and Raphael.

It’s probably the wackiest we’ve seen from Doc Marts this year, given the reflective top bindings and colour-coded laces that perfectly match each character’s colour scheme. There’re even eyes! We particularly like Raphael’s (read: red bandana-ed turtle) glow-in-the-dark ooze at the top of the quarter, which definitely seems apt for our sewer-dwelling superheroes. And of course, perfect timing in conjunction with the release of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows, which opened in cinemas last Thursday.

We’re guessing working adults might have… qualms about rocking these bad boys in public (a damn shame, though), so sizes for the collab only run from UK11 to UK3. Still, no harm picking up a pair for your little one, niece, nephew, or any tot you know in need of cool, kooky shoes – to kit them out in some badass new footwear; or for you to live vicariously through them. Cowabunga, my friend.

Dr. Martens x Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collection, from $159, available at Dr. Martens Wheelock Place and Orchard Gateway.

Why We are Obsessed with Emma Watson

Jun 8, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Let’s be honest – it’s difficult or even nearly impossible to find someone that dislikes Emma Watson. Most famously known as the fiesty Hermoine Granger from the Harry Potter series, Emma Watson has achieved so much more since her days at Hogwarts. Our obsession with her extends more than just the iconic role she played in our childhoods; but the numerous ways she has proved to us that she’s no longer the teen we were all very familiar with. Besides being in the TIME 100 list last year and having won the British Style Award, Emma continuously shows that she’s not just an actress, but also a compelling activist whom everyone can look up to. Here are some reasons why we are still completely head over heels with her:
1. She’s a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador

As part of her efforts as a Goodwill Ambassador for female empowerment, Emma played one of the leading roles of the HeForShe initiative – a campaign for gender equality. You’ve probably seen it on your Facebook feed as the campaign was widely publicised through social media in hopes of getting men to take the HeForShe pledge. Several celebrities such as Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jared Leto and Tom Hiddleston stood by the campaign and supported Emma’s speech. Despite receiving flak for her obvious nervous demeanour during the speech (who wouldn’t be?), her speech was definitely inspiring and sensational as she encouraged others to join her in the fight for gender equality. For such a controversial topic even in today’s modern world, we have to applaud Emma for her positivity and bravery shown against the antifeminist haters who attacked her stand. Emma’s not one who will just sing about her haters, but she actually puts on a strong fight with actions and a riveting speech.

2. She’s shown us that juggling between school and work can be done

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— Emma Watson (@EmWatson) May 25, 2014

We can only imagine parents chiding their children: “Emma Watson was acting in the Harry Potter series and studying at the same time! You should be scoring much higher for your exams.” A recent graduate of Brown University, Emma proves to be a role model for all students who are struggling with school work and other commitments on the side. We can’t even begin to fathom how she does it, filming an entire movie while completing her degree. It’s no doubt that beauty and brains can indeed coexist.

3. She has her own feminist book club

Book nerds, rejoice. Just a few months back, Emma announced her decision to start a feminist book club on Goodreads that is opened to the public for discussions and sharing of ideas. Basically, Emma will recommend a new book every month with questions and quotes to start the discussion rolling. Yes, even us normal human beings may now have this rare chance to engage in an intellectual conversation with her. We love how Emma helps to cultivate a love for reading (not just trashy novels) and formulate thought-provoking ideas and questions while reading.

4. She tries change the world with her dressing

While everybody else sashayed in glittering gowns and luxurious suits, Emma Watson wore a freaking sustainable gown for the Met Gala 2016. Sustainable. A joint collaboration by Calvin Klein and Eco Age saw the creation of this beautiful gown made from recycled plastic bottles (technically, trash). But Emma’s bold clothing choice highlights the importance of environmental sustainability and the problems with the not so environmentally friendly fashion world now. Emma pledged her support for the #30wears campaign, which is meant to encourage people to only purchase clothing they will wear for at least 30 times. So the next time you stand in front of your almost bursting wardrobe and think that you have absolutely nothing to wear, remember Emma’s wise words: “Truly beautiful things should be worn again and again and again.”

Feature image from Emma Watson’s >Instagram page.

LG Stylus 2 Plus Shines with Enhanced Features
Posted on Jun 8, 2016Aug 15, 2018

The LG Stylus 2 gets an upgrade with the LG Stylus 2 Plus, delivering significantly better features and an improved user experience. Retaining the same sleek and lightweight design, the new smartphone packs a greater punch. For starters, LG has introduced some brilliant enhanced specifications that include: a faster 1.4GHz Octa-Core processor, clearer 5.7-inch Full HD IPS display and higher resolution 16MP rear camera. Here’s our favourite part – there’s a flash function on both sides of the phone. This will rid annoying blurred and grainy photos when you use the front camera in low lighting (yay to better selfies!)

The handy nano-coated stylus will be the perfect companion for those who are constantly on the go, or for those who just can’t type to save their lives. With specially designed UX features such as Quick Memo and Off Memo and Pen Keeper, you’ll now be able to write down important notes even more quickly.
The LG Stylus 2 Plus is available in three staple colours – titan, gold and brown, and a free transparent jelly case and screen protector (worth S$32) will be included with every purchase (while stocks last). What’s not to love?

LG Stylus 2 Plus, S$498, available at all Singtel, M1 and StarHub outlets as well as authorised retailers from 11 June 2016.

Why The Comic Book World Of Marvel Is Freaking Out
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Most of us are probably more acquainted with Marvel’s cinematic universe. After all, they’ve been releasing a slew of blockbuster movies over the years, and whether you prefer Chris Pratt’s nerdy-yet-adorable Star-Lord or James McAvoy’s devastatingly charming Charles Xavier, you’ve probably seen at least one Marvel superhero saving the world, or even, the universe. But Marvel, as you probably know, is Marvel Comics before anything else, which is why the recent twist in Issue #1 of Captain America: Steve Rogers has caused decades of Marvel fans to go “wait, WHAT?!”.
Warning: Major spoilers ahead for Captain America: Steve Rogers.
But first, a quick history lesson. Marvel Comics began as Timely Publications in 1939. The company’s founder, Martin Goodman, brought on writer-artist Joe Simon – who would become the company’s first true editor – and now-icon of comic book artists, Jack Kirby, and the two created Captain America with the release of Captain America Comics #1 in 1941. Needless to say, Cap quickly gained massive popularity as one of the first patriotically themed superheroes. On the edge of America’s plunge into World War II, Cap was a symbol of hope and strength, fighting against the Axis Powers and standing up for what was right. What’s also particularly crucial to the story is that both Jack Kirby and Joe Simon – born Jacob Kurtzberg and Hymie Simon – are of Jewish heritage. As Panels writer Jessica Plummer points out:

“In early 1941, a significant percentage of the American population was still staunchly isolationist. Yet more Americans were pro-Axis. The Nazi Party was not the unquestionably evil cartoon villains we’re familiar with today; coming out in strong opposition to them was not a given. It was a risky choice (…) (Kirby and Simon) had family and friends back in Europe who were losing their homes, their freedom, and eventually their lives to the Holocaust.”

A photo posted by Marvel Entertainment (@marvel) on May 4, 2016 at 3:13pm PDT

Jump forward to the present 2016 and the political undertones – are they even ‘under’ anything? – are evident, even in Marvel’s cinematic verse. There’s no denying that the German terrorist organisation known as Hydra are undoubtedly meant to represent the Nazi regime and the horrors of the Holocaust. The scars of World War II are still felt today, and there are still people fighting their own battles, particularly in the Middle East. Cap’s position as a beacon of light, leading troops into battle and taking down the “bad guys”, is probably going to be one that is relevant and needed for a long, long time.
Enter the mess that is Captain America: Steve Rogers issue #1, written by Nick Spencer and edited by Tom Brevoort. Everything seems to be going pretty smoothly until you reach the last page and – brave yourselves for this – it turns out, Steve Rogers has been a Hydra agent all along, recruited from his youth. A double agent, but for the bad guys, and not just any bad guys, but Hydra, the stand-in for the Nazi organisation.
Ta…da?

A photo posted by Marvel Entertainment (@marvel) on May 11, 2016 at 1:20pm PDT

As a writer, I don’t want to be the one dictating what others should or should not write about, particularly if it’s set in a fictional world. But it’s difficult for me to follow Spencer and Brevoort’s approach to something so strongly-rooted in politics – especially if those roots are associated with a nation as old as America. Spencer has even had a number of death threats tweeted his way as a result of his decision, and while I can’t say there’s ever a justification for death threats, it makes you wonder what kind of reaction they were expecting in the first place. “Well, he’s just a comic book character,” you might say, “they can always write themselves out of it.” But fictitious characters have moved people for generations, and still continue to. Why do you think there are weekly tributes to the fallen Game of Thrones characters? People resonate with who they read about and/or see on-screen. Any change of a character – however fleeting or drastic – will undeniably affect those emotionally invested in them, particularly fans of Cap, a superhero who has been around for decades.
Spencer and Brevoort have all the power, and talent, to change the current course of Captain America: Steve Rogers. In fact, there’s no telling that this isn’t all just part of a large (albeit publicity stunt-like) scheme, and Cap might be a triple agent or something. But betraying one’s fellow countrymen and aligning yourself with a Nazi-organisation cuts a wound too deep to be healed by speech bubbles and well-shaded figures. Like Cap, people lost their loved ones, and became rootless. Like Cap, people faced years of trauma, even after the war had ended. Captain America is very much by the people, for the people, and amongst the people. Changing his story for the sake of higher sales and greater publicity doesn’t sit well simply because it seems to trivialise the lives of those who made it out of the battle, shaken and broken, but still wanting to survive. The world doesn’t need another Nazi super-villain, we already had one.
Featured Image: Marvel’s Official Instagram account

We Bring You Through Benefit's Biggest Brow Launch Yet
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

It’s the biggest brow-focused launch we’ve seen yet – from the end of June, Benefit Cosmetics will be launching a full-fledged brow collection with 9 products, each made for different brow needs but all with the same aim, which is to bestow upon us brows that are nothing less than perfect.
Of course, the snazzy metallic packaging is entirely fresh; as for the products, the Gimme Brow volumising fibre gel and the Brow Zing shaping kit are familiar to us, and that means there are seven completely new launches in varying formats for a range of purposes. We understand if you might be feeling intimidated by all of these – we also never knew all brows could do with so many products – but we’re here to guide you through each one, with tips courtesy of Benefit’s Global Brow Expert Jared Bailey on how to use them properly.

BROWVO! Conditioning Primer, $49

Bailey tells us that a universal brow problem is sparse brows, something faced by women all over the world, as Benefit has found out. That’s why they created this primer, as he explains: “What’s great about this is if you have sparse brows and you use this in the morning and at night, just one click dispenses the formula which has soy and keratin products inside, which are known to make hair thicker.” Apply it before the rest of your brow makeup, as well as just before you go to bed, so it can work its brow-thickening magic overnight.

Goof Proof Brow Pencil, $42

It’s exactly as its name implies: it’s really quite impossible to mess up your brows with this automatic pencil. “Patchy or uneven brows are very common – some people have scars, or holes, or things in their brows,” Bailey tells us. “So we created the Goof Proof Brow Pencil that is a filling and shaping pencil with a custom teardrop tip on the inside, that actually helps to both fill the brow and add definition.” There’s a spoolie brush on the other end of the pencil too, so you can fill in, shape, and blend all with one tool – and that’s why it’s goof proof.

Ka-BROW! Cream-Gel Brow Colour With Brush, $42

For brows that are more high-impact, we turn to a more pigmented cream-gel formula like this one. “It’s all about buildable drama,” Bailey says. “We built the brush right into the cap, and you can sculpt and define any type of brow look you want with it.” Bailey also calls this one “a makeup artist’s wet dream”, since it’s versatile enough to create a whole spectrum of brow looks, depending on how much is layered on.

High Brow and High Brow Glow Highlighting Pencils, $39

Yes, it’s important to highlight your brows as well – don’t estimate how a little bit of highlighter above and under the brows can really make them stand out so much more. High Brow is a linen pink shade that’s more natural and is able to match all skin tones, while High Brow Glow is a champagne pink if you’re looking for something with shimmer.
If it’s the Korean straight brow look you’re aiming for, Bailey says you can use the High Brow under your brows, starting from the eye and blending it outwards to the ends, so you get a crisp line at the bottom.

Ready, Set, BROW! 24-hour Invisible Shaping & Setting Gel, $42

Since we set the rest of our makeup to keep it in place, it makes sense that we set our brows in place as well – we don’t know why it took so long for someone to come up with a product like this. But we’re glad Benefit finally did, with this clear gel that keeps your painstakingly-filled in brows in place for a full day, with a cleverly-designed brush that has long bristles on one side to coat brow hairs evenly, short bristles on the other side to sculpt the hairs in place, and a precision tip to define the narrow ends of your brows.

Precisely, My Brow Ultra-Fine Defining Pencil, $42

This is as thin as brow pencils get – the ultra-fine pencil tip is meant to create hair-like strokes, especially useful if you’re trying to boost sparse brows. The grip on the pencil body has been made to ensure a steady hand, and there’s a spoolie brush on the other end to make blending easy. Again, if you’re trying for those straight brows: Bailey says to have your brows more structured at the bottom, and have a more “feathery” look at the top – and that’s where this pencil can come in, to fill in brow hairs near the top in the most natural way possible.

Brow Zings Total Taming & Shaping Kit For Brows, $56

Aside from the fancy new packaging, the Brow Zings kit is still pretty much the same on the inside, just with three new shades and a redesigned brow brush. On one side, the brow powder is handy for creating bolder brows, and on the other, the wax helps keep brow hairs in place, if you’re looking to keep the look real natural.

Gimme Brow Brow Volumising Fibre Gel, $42

The iconic fibre-laden brow tint gets a packaging makeover and a new shade, making it as handy as ever for faking naturally-full brows. If your brows are in real need of a volume boost, go ahead and layer a few coats of this.

3D BROWtones Subtle Brow-Enhancing Highlights, $42

This one is Bailey’s favourite of the range, and we have to say it’s the most exciting launch of all. Essentially highlights for your brows, Bailey tells us this can add dimension to your brow look like no other product can. “It has this pearlised formula on the inside, and the viscosity is not like mascara or a gel even, it’s more like a glaze,” he explains. “So you see your natural brow hair colour through it, and it gives highlights and lowlights and dimension to your brows, creating this contrast – and there’s nothing really on the market like it.”

Benefit Cosmetics new brow collection, available at Benefit Cosmetics counters and Sephora from 23 Jun. facebook.com/benefitcosmeticssingapore

Vans and Nintendo Team Up For A Super Nostalgic Collection
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Talk about a major throwback! Remember all those days when your parents would nag at you for spending too much time playing games like Mario, The Legend of Zelda and Donkey Kong? Those days are so far behind us but the fond memories and attachment to a simpler time will stay with us forever. This season, Vans will be pulling at our heartstrings to bring us a special collaboration collection of footwear, apparel and accessories with the Japanese video game company to celebrate those early days of video games. The collection will see exclusive graphic prints using 8-bit inspired artwork of familiar characters and an assortment inspired by Nintendo’s first console, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).

The Vans x Nintendo Classic footwear collection kicks off with four variations of the Authentic silhouette with various characters in the limelight. Tie-Dye will feature a print of Mario along with the iconic “power-ups”, and the villainous Goomba over an 8-bit tie-dye pattern. The original damsel in distress, Princess Peach, appears on another iteration while the hunting dog and flying duck from Duck Hunt comes to life over a digi-camo backdrop. The last colourway pay homage to Donkey Kong and incorporates imagery from its first level, presenting the character in a floral arrangement. Van’s Classic Slip-On also gets a throwback treatment with graphics and quotes from The Legend of Zelda while the sidestriped trio of the Sk8-Hi, Old School and Sk8-Hi Slim takes visual cues from the NES.

The Vans x Nintendo Collection, $55-$119. Available for both kids and adults from 15 June at all Vans Singapore store (including the Raffles City outlet that opens on 24 June).

5 K-Pop Music Videos That You Need To Watch
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Okay, we can’t ignore one of the hallmarks of the k-craze: Korean Pop (or, as it’s more popularly known, K-Pop). It’s no secret that the visuals are as crucial as the music in the K-Pop world, but – like the best of us – entertainment companies can get lazy when it comes to making music videos. You’ve probably caught a glimpse of the ‘standard’ K-Pop music video: the band dances in various box sets, occasionally in costumes that make you think, “only in K-Pop”. From time to time they might even include backup dancers, several weird props, or even animals just to “change things up”, but it’s difficult to standout if you limit yourself to a standard checklist. Here, we bring you 5 K-Pop music videos that have managed to break out of the box set and give their songs new layers of meaning.
*****
BTS (방탄소년단) – Run

It’s hard to talk about K-Pop without mentioning 방탄소년단 a.k.a. BTS these days. The seven-member, multi-talented boy band have been taking the world by storm ever since their 화양연화 (The Most Beautiful Moment In Life) album series dropped in 2015. Run is taken from 화양연화 Part 2, the second EP from the series, and the music video is meant to be a continuation of one of their previous music videos, I Need U.

So, here’s where things get interesting. While the lyrics of Run tell the story of a painful, one-sided love, the music video juxtaposes scenes of the members partying and causing general chaos with scenes of them fighting and/or being completely isolated. Alongside the video for I Need U, there have been numerous fan theories about the framing of the shots as well as the blocking of the members. Essentially, it’s assumed that, when pieced together accurately, I Need U and Run should show the slow and messy breakdown of a group of seven friends. While BTS haven’t exactly confirmed these theories, the video for Run definitely gets you thinking, especially if you’ve assumed the song is your standard boy-chases-girl story.

BrownEyedGirls – Cleansing Cream

While you’ve probably heard about BrownEyedGirls because of their smash-hit song (and music video) Abracadabra, Cleansing Cream is definitely their most powerful and provocative video to date. It’s rare for music videos – particularly K-Pop ones – to showcase long-drawn scenes of violence and/or disability in a dignified manner, so this one is definitely a diamond in the rough. The ingenious thing about this music video is that it’s able to be interpreted in a multitude of ways, with each interpretation having its own valid meaning. Is this a statement about domestic violence? Jealousy? Is the girl more of a symbol than an actual being? The lyrics of Cleansing Cream follow a girl’s breakup and her subsequent mourning over the boy she’s lost, but the music video allows it to be unclear who’s story the song is for, allowing the viewer to try and decipher the relationship between the girl and the woman right up till the end. It’s definitely not a video for the faint-hearted, but it’s heartbreakingly beautiful nevertheless.

Akdong Musician – 얼음들 (Melted)

After winning the second season of the K-POP STAR competition series, Akdong Musician – sometimes referred to as ‘AKMU’ – have been diligently continuing to prove to the world that they’re not to be underestimated despite their young age. The brother-sister duo of Lee Chanhyuk and Lee Suhyun have effortlessly beautiful vocals and a definite gift for music – Chanhyuk even wrote all the songs on their debut album, Play, which has seen monumental success. But while their cheerful, youthful tracks are definitely fun to jam too, Melted is definitely a track which displays the duo’s musical and lyrical sensibilities. The term “얼음들” (pronounced: o-reum-deul) sounds similar to the term for “adults” in Korean, and the song deals with the pain that can result of the disillusionment one feels when growing up. Similarly, the music video for Melted follows one stumbling child’s journey and his various encounters with several adults. While AKMU don’t appear in the video, every element of the video – from the locations, to the desaturated shots, to the brilliant acting – is guaranteed to draw you in from the minute you hit ‘play’.

Primary (ft. Beenzino & Suran) – Mannequin

It’s no secret that much of contemporary Korean culture seems to evolve around one’s appearance, particularly that of women. But the “criteria” for beauty tends to get pretty ridiculous: too little maintenance and you’re a slob, too much and you’re “plastic”. Renowned producer Primary teams up with rapper Beenzino and indie-singer Suran for a track that lays this critique out plain and simple, and the music video is both entertaining and intriguing. We never get a glimpse of Suran‘s face, assuming the girl in the video is her, anyway. Instead, she either appears silhouetted against the brightly-lit boutique window, or her face is completely covered by a strange mask of exaggerated, doll-like features. In contrast, the beautiful “mannequins” of the video are expressionless and stiff, constantly separated from Suran by a shop window. The brilliance of the video therefore lies in its subtlety; how far can the obsession with appearance go before one becomes more of a mannequin and less of a human?

K. Will – 이러지마 제발 (Please Don’t..).

We won’t spoil this one too much, but there’s actually a compilation of people reacting to this music video somewhere on YouTube. The concept seems pretty simple: the friendship of two boys begins falling apart as one of them gets married. The girl seems to have a history with the other boy…or does she? In a society that remains rather closed off and conservative, the video is definitely a breath of fresh air and a step forward in a new direction. While this is a little more of a ballad than the other musicians on this list, we couldn’t rule it out for the rollercoaster journey the music video takes us on. Hint: expect the unexpected, or assume nothing at all.

Featured Image: BTS (방탄소년단) – Run MV

The Yeezy Boost 750 In Light Grey Is Finally Here
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Kanye West has been playing with our hearts and minds with numerous hints about the release of a new Yeezy; and your prayers will finally be answered. After a long hiatus, the wildly popular adidas Yeezy line will be finally getting a release. Adidas is dropping the Yeezy Boost 750 in Grey, and you may have the chance to get your hands on these kicks. No more delirious scrolling on websites trying to find this inimitable pair online, only to find ridiculous jaw-dropping prices or the despairingly limited (or the lack of) sizes available.

The new Yeezy Boost 750 is the perfect combination of light grey suede uppers and a classic translucent gum outsole. The muted and subtle hues of this one will surely be a game changer in your shoe collection. Created with comfort, style and quality in mind, the breakthrough adidas BOOST cushioning technology at the outsole will definitely ensure your comfort. This titular pair of shoe sees the effortless blending of modern style and comfort with luxe leather and suede heel lining, lightweight mesh forefoot and stylish Velcro straps. You’ll definitely get the best of both fashion and comfort with the Yeezy (and numerous envious gazes coming your way).
Fingers crossed.

adidas Yeezy Boost 750 in Light Grey, SGD$549.
Registration for balloting will begin 8th June 2016 (1100hrs – 2100hrs) to 9th June 2016 (1100hrs – 2100hrs) at adidas Originals, Pacific Plaza.

Our Newest Spring Outerwear Obsession: Silky Bombers
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Outerwear never really went out of style – just out of our minds, in this glorious heat. Literally and figuratively, because how many of us have ever been called crazy for donning a jacket while strolling Orchard Road? Too many, let’s be real.

L-R: Gucci Women FW16, Saint Laurent MW SS16, Saint Laurent WW SS16
Enter Spring/Summer 2016, and suddenly a certain silky baseball-style jacket is everywhere – in stores, on the shoulders of your most non-stylish friend; outerwear is o-kay! And thus, the bomber jacket trend well and truly swept us over, with its lightweight fabrics and smart casual silhouette. It might have to do with this year’s runways being flooded with printed bombers, but a return to an old fave – this time with a sateen, glamorous update – is something we’d gladly embrace. And while our hearts may lust after the beautiful styles of Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Louis (Vuitton, yo), our wallets can only send us straight into the likes of Topshop and Zara. Ah well. Check out our top fast fashion picks for emulating effortless chic, courtesy of the 2016 silky bomber.

PRINTS

Zara, $109
Available in stores

Really, no one does high fashion knock-offs quite like Zara, especially when it comes to couture-looking silky jackets like this gem. We love the blush tones in this little number; almost as much as the intricate embroidery all around. A statement to reclaiming orientalism, anyone?

H&M, $119
Available in stores


Before you balk, take a chance on this graphic jacquard-weave bomber. Granted, it’s a little heavier than a regular satin bomber jacket, but probably worth it when you end up turning heads the moment you walk into the room. (In a good way.)

Topshop, $196
Available online and in stores

Possibly the most badass high street bomber jacket to have graced the shelves of retail fashion, there’s a reason why this sateen bomber is almost $200. It’s reversible. Not only do you get a truly sick embroidered graphic on the front and back of the jacket (though what’s up with these oriental animal prints??), you get in twice over on the inside, with a refreshing new colourway for when you’re tired of black. Two stunning and somehow very different jackets in one – win-win never made more sense.

NEUTRALS

Topshop, $116
Available online and in stores

Nothing says versatile like a jacket that straddles a confusing palette of nudes and pinks! This lightweight piece is less of a statement and more an everyday cover-up, to throw on in freezing air-conditioned shopping malls or even to hide your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Dress it up or down; but don’t wear it with orange.

Stradivarius, $69.90
Available online and in stores

Lust-worthy pinks don’t always have to break the bank – we particularly fancy this silky smooth satin piece with an easy-breezy, effortless shape and unique ruched cuffs.

LONG-LINE

Pull & Bear, $45.90
Available in stores


Call it a weird evolution of the bomber trend, but we’ve sort of taken a shine to these longer, slimmer cousins of the traditional cropped bomber. Perfect for layering up, these add a surprisingly chic touch to any outfit; and are very evocative of Fashion Week street style. (We call it the trench effect.) This season, switch out your basic khaki bomber (you know, the one everyone else has too) for something a little edgier. Best part: they’re basically socially acceptable pajamas.

Monki, £50
Available at asos.com

We can already see ourselves waltzing down the streets of Paris – or Milan, New York; wherever your next wanderlust takes you – in this pretty little number. Here’s to combining the blush pink trend with long-line – gorgeously girly, and proof that bombers aren’t just something left to the (tom)boys.

Beat the Heat: How to Dress Up in Shorts
Posted on Jun 7, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Even as the fashion world transitions into Fall/Winter campaigns, here we are, still facing the wrath of the scorching heat. You’re definitely not alone if you wake up feeling like it’s a hundred degrees, Celsius, mind you, but we still have to put on presentable clothes to face the world. We’ll admit that comfort beats style in these blazing afternoons and nothing feels better than a breezy and cooling outfit amidst the humidity; but there’s definitely a way to dress both comfortably and look put together as well.
Here’s how you can dress up in shorts because let’s be honest – we won’t be getting through this weather without them. Ditch the misconception that wearing shorts are too informal; we’re zero-ing in on some looks that you can look all ~dressed up~.

1. Pair them with off shoulder tops

GAP, $54.95. Bershka, $39.90.

Score that ethereal look with off shoulders that are essential for a summer look. Wear them with frayed denim shorts or tailored shorts for a more posh look.

2. Outerwear

Pull & Bear, S$69.90. Zara, S$139.
The easiest way to switch up your plain look is to throw on a jacket or extra layer that lends texture to your co-ordinate. Fall in line with the breezy aesthetic, with a long and oversized duster coat that’s bound to look anything but casual. Alternatively, nail that sleek look with a matching blazer and high waisted shorts. It may sound completely crazy to be layering in this insane weather; but be sure to pick those made of lightweight materials such as chiffon and cotton that will definitely help you survive the sweltering heat.

3. Go for belted high waisted shorts

Stradivarius, price unavailable. Zara, S$89.90.
These shorts that go with anything. The ribboned details or a D-ring sash lends an elegant twist to the seemingly casual pair high waisted shorts. Here’s the trick: go for neutral and muted shades that will definitely survive the test of time.

4. Pair it with something slightly oversized

Zara, S$59.90. GAP, $54.95. Pull & Bear, S$39.90.
You’ll look more put together with a slightly oversized top if you’re going to be wearing slightly shorter shorts like denim or cotton drawstring shorts. Simple details like knotted ribbons, prints or bell sleeves will definitely make coordinating your outfits much easier — and these details will actually save you from looking like you’re just wearing a T-shirt and shorts. Besides, being in a slightly oversized top is definitely more cooling than other body hugging materials.

5. Prints! Stripes!

Topshop, S$79.90. Zara, S$39.90.
Prints and stripes will be your lifesaver on the days that have you looking at your wardrobe in despair. Pair them with tie up sandals and a lightweight cropped top and you’ll be well equipped to fight the ill weather!

Orangey Eye Palettes For Nailing Warm-Toned Makeup
Posted on Jun 6, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Ah, warm-toned makeup. It doesn’t take a MUA (that’s makeup artist in YouTube speak) to figure out that warm, bronzy hues are the easiest way to pulling off easy, breezy, beautiful – plus they work great on a variety of skin tones, cool-undertoned folk included. This season, leave your lip colour experimentation aside and let your eyes come into their own. From bright coral looks to shimmery, bronzed smokey eyes, to luscious burgundy lids suitable for the wildest of GNOs, we’ve found the best orangey eyeshadow palettes to help you finally nail warm-toned makeup.

ZOEVA Cocoa Blend Palette
$32.99, available at Sephora

We’ll start off easy with this chocolate-hued palette. The ten shades revolve mainly around brown tones, so they’re perfect for the beginner who’s afraid to progress too far from everyday neutrals, but still wants a little room to experiment. Dip into the rich russet shade in the second row, third from the left – our go-to colour for playing up a safer orange eye.

KATE Forming Edge Eyes
$23.50, available at Watsons

It can’t get more straightforward than this – three deep orangey tones in an eyeshadow-for-dummies gradient that’ll help you achieve quick, neat warm eyes. Foolproof, really.

Coastal Scents Revealed 2 Palette
$39.90, available at smoochiezz.com

We’re zeroing in on the beautiful cranberry shades in this 20-tone palette, which add a welcome berry flush to the original Revealed palette. You’ll be surprised at how naturally brick red settles into your crease for a deep, dramatic orangey eye. There’s a good mix of mattes and shimmers available – perfect for creating a whole bunch of combinations to switch it up, every day of the week.

Make Up For Ever Artist Shadow 1 Palette
$72, available at Sephora

If you haven’t already guessed, the star colour in every warm-toned palette is the coppery rust-toned red that straddles orange and brown, in the prettiest way. The other eight shades complement it beautifully, and give you the option of going rosy gold any time you want. Definitely the priciest of the lot; but then again we’ve all heard about Make Up For Ever’s stellar pigmentation.

THEBALM Nude Dude Eyeshadow Palette
$71.90, available at Sephora

From light nudes to dark shimmery plums, these twelve *full-bodied* shadows cover the essentials of basic eye makeup, and glittery earth tones for an added oomph. And anyway, nothing like Nude Dudes to make a woman feel good about herself, aye.

Morphe 350 Nature Glow Eyeshadow Palette
US$22.99, available at morphebrushes.com

Behold: the palette to end all warm-toned palette woes. With a whopping 35 shades, it’s a done deal that you’ll be spoilt for choice when you try and figure out where to begin, every morning. And the colour gradient is anything but random – the pots go from day-appropriate light neturals to nighttime smokeys, to flirty rose golds and even bold, graphic oranges. Still, you’re bound to find a few favourite hues.
At such a good price point, though, it’s no surprise that the palette is constantly out of stock. Wait for the next restock (quite regularly, we’re told) or spring for our next pick – the Koffee Eyeshadow Palette, which switches out the shocking oranges for a more glitzy set of silvers.

NYLON #43: HAUTE STUFF
Posted on Jun 4, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Franchise Reboots: Why Does Hollywood Keep Repeating Itself?
Posted on Jun 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Warning: Spoiler Alert for any/all recent re-booted films.
Okay, it’s time for a confession: I wasn’t exactly around during the ‘classic’ blockbuster era. The original Star Wars/Star Trek series, Independence Day, Jaws – and so on – were hitting cinemas as I was barely beginning to take shape as a concept. But it appears I didn’t lose out that much. JJ Abrams’ Star Trek series is already three films in on a brand-spanking-new timeline, the aliens are (surprise surprise) dropping in again for Independence Day: Resurgence, and John Boyega is struggling with his Stormtrooper origins in the latest continuation of the Star Wars series. No Jaws remake in sight, though, but some might argue that’s for the best.
When Star Trek: Into Darkness was released in 2013, I had only just finished watching the 2009 remake, and had been made to sit through Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan under the guise of “Star Trek Appreciation”. Obviously, my father – like most Trekkies – had predicted that the new timeline would tap into the original series for one of its most (in)famous villains: Khan. While Abrams generally keeps things pretty hush hush with regards to his films, particularly the remakes, news of Benedict Cumberbatch joining the cast was spreading like wildfire by then. People put two and two together.

Benedict Cumberbatch as “Khan” in “Star Trek: Into Darkness” (2013) vs. Ricardo Montalban as “Khan” in “Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan” (1982)

Amidst understandable controversy over casting Cumberbatch as “Khan” – the villain’s full name is “Khan Noonien Singh” – I actually enjoyed Into Darkness, and honestly can’t wait for Star Trek: Beyond. But scroll down to the comments section of the upcoming film and you’ll be met with row after row of scathing critique, decrying Abrams’ attempts at rebooting the franchise. If you can get past the biting sarcasm, death threats and internet trolls, you’ll get to the main argument: the reboot is far from the original source material…thematically, anyway. Abrams’ use of time-travel to give the new timeline’s “Kirk” a “Chosen One” story has garnered considerable flack, although there are no clear statistics as to how impactful this creative decision has been in terms of ticket sales amongst “original” Trekkies worldwide. Meanwhile, Abrams’ attempts at re-introducing the Star Wars series to millennials drew some praise for his move to create a more racially diverse cast, but the appearance of a black stormtrooper caused such a stir that people were denouncing the film even before it premiered.
We all know it’s impossible to please everyone, particularly when it comes to films, but it’s difficult to discern how to critique remakes. Both Star Trek and Star Wars have kept most of their iconic characters and/or motifs – Star Wars gets a bit more leeway because it’s technically a continuation, not a pure re-make – but that doesn’t seem to have pleased die-hard fans enough. What about even clearer reference points? Well, Into Darkness featured a climactic scene that was practically ripped from the frames of The Wrath of Khan, but people spat at it due to a lack of “originality”, even with its slight twist.

The death of “Spock” in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” (1982) vs. the death of “Kirk” in “Star Trek: Into Darkness” (2009)

If audiences are so difficult to please, why do people bother with remakes, anyway? Why don’t fans just wait for their favourite “classic” film to be remastered for blu-ray so that they can finally re-live those golden days (except in High Definition, you know)? Well, Hollywood loves formulas. Studios are notorious for milking genres and franchises for every last possible cent. Is it any wonder why the staggering success of the Hunger Games series was quickly followed by a wave of films focused on teenagers fighting against “The System” in a grim, dystopian world? If audiences love something, Hollywood makes sure to ride on that wave of obsession (and crazy-high ticket sales) for as long as it can. Rebooted franchises pose an even greater economic advantage, because they give studios the opportunity to exploit the nostalgia of older fans and the curiosity of younger ones.
But there’s something off about this picture. Following trends isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if studios become so hard-up for films “everyone has kind of seen before”, filmmakers who prefer to explore different creative options are put at a huge disadvantage. Sticking to a formula also ends up perpetuating that whole #OscarsSoWhite problem: franchises developed much earlier on are typically focused on white, heterosexual male characters and their similarly aligned peers. This means that there’s a lot less room for actors and actresses of various ethnicities and backgrounds to get casted, particularly in roles where they’re not two-dimensional characters used as punchlines. Ironically, studios technically lose out to a wider audience here. Is it any wonder that Abrams’ reboot of Star Wars, with it’s “unconventional” leads, ended up raking in almost two billion USD?
Franchise reboots probably aren’t going to stop any time soon, and there’s nothing wrong with liking them. Film is still an incredibly young art form after all, and it’s difficult and/or rare for something to be completely and truly original. But it’s important for us to think about how rebooted films are meant to be approached, watched and critiqued. Characters might die, rules might change, and themes might shift. So prepare yourself for change.
Or at least ask yourself: do I really want a reboot, or do I just want it remastered?
Featured Image: Star Trek: Into Darkness (2009), dir. JJ Abrams.
All images taken from Star Trek: Into Darkness (2009) and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982).

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