With a name as revered as M. Night Shyamalan, any movie that carries his name has a certain expectation of mystery, fear, and plot twists beyond comprehension.
I’ll outright say it: Ford is the absolute king of customer outreach, programs, and events.
When I had the amazing opportunity to test drive a vanilla Ford F-150, and a Ford Maverick Tremor, I did not realize that I would be just getting half of the true experience for each.
The audio market nowadays is so saturated with high-price and low-performance gear that sometimes it feels like a compromise has to be made one way or another. A shining beacon through the dozens of mediocre plastic clones is Sony, whose products offer no compromises.
I have had the previous pleasure of getting the chance to give the behemoth that is the Ford F-150 Raptor a spin, and I was simply floored by the raw size, power, and presence that the vehicle dealt. However, it was immediately apparent that that vehicle was not designed for me. As someone who lives in New York City with no need for 75% of the F-150’s capabilities, I knew that while it would very well serve someone that sits in the niche it occupies, I would be doing it a disservice.
Enter the 2024 Ford Maverick. For every outrageous and ostentatious feature of the F-150, the Maverick had one economical and encompassing. Instead of the large road-commanding size of the F-150, the Maverick was sleek, slim, and much more manageable in the city. It also had a much better miles-per-gallon than the 5.0L V8 engine of the F-150, which allows for better savings in the long run, and a more feasible experience driving in traffic. I drove the heck out of the F-150, but the whole time, it felt like an exotic amusement park ride. With the Maverick, I felt like I was in a vehicle that I could actually see myself purchasing and using on the daily.
A wild Maverick, courtesy of Ford
As a result, my pursuits with the Maverick were much more tame than those with the F-150. I took it to the supermarket, and loaded bags upon bags of food into the pickup bed. Groceries that I was usually stuffing into the deep crevices of my daily driver’s trunk were now comfortably seated beside each other. I dropped my brother to work, and we jammed out listening to our favorite tracks through the vehicle’s excellent surround sound speaker system, and didn’t feel any of New Jersey’s notorious potholes due to the impressive suspension. The interior was comfortable and not too complicated with insane features and buttons and dials; it got the job done. Wired CarPlay and Android Auto was also a big plus.
When it came to being a car, the Maverick did a pretty decent job. I was able to park it in downtown Manhattan in a regular parking space, and did not have to accommodate for big wheels or protruding grilles. However, it really shone when it came to being a truck. I took for a late night drive to Long Beach in Suffolk County, and on roads that were unevenly paved or not paved at all, and that twisted and winded through a foggy forest, the Maverick kept its cool and its traction. The Tremor package that was included helped in the off-road bits, with better suspension and Trail Control.
Suburban bliss
The auto high beams automatically illuminated when I came to a difficult hill or sharp turn with limited visibility. Finally, on the beach, it remained an excellent place for everyone to huddle in and talk while cranking the heat up (since it was February and we had no business going to a beach in the winter).
In all, the 2024 Maverick is the people’s truck. With less flash and more bang for buck, it provides a safe economical option that doesn’t sacrifice functionality, and will no doubt save you the $100k+ that the F-150 can surmount to be. This is not even considering the fact that the Maverick offers a hybrid option, which will save you even more on gas with each trip. As the F-150’s smaller brother, it has fewer bells and whistles, but all of the charm, and all of the potential to make a great trip even greater.
Picture this: you walk into a family restaurant with four of your closest buddies. The individual that greets you is immediately at attention, and politely says, “We’ve been waiting for you.” You follow him to a secluded upstairs table, as he gently picks up and removes the placard that says, “Reserved.” As you take a seat, he announces, “There will be a special menu for you all tonight.”
Bruschetta Pizza: simply delectable
This scenario seems to be straight out of an episode of The Sopranos, and yet there I was, living it in real life. I had been invited to Da Nico Ristorante in downtown Manhattan, which possessed “Tony’s Table”, a special table used as a shrine to The Sopranos and surrounded by The Sopranos memorabilia. Here, in honor of the 25th anniversary of the show, we received a special menu that contained items named with references to the show, such as the Vesuvius Scrapiello or the Not For Tony. A cocktail menu with a similar naming system was provided as well. I felt like I had the power and luxury of a gangster, and for once could understand what it felt like to be in Tony’s shoes.
Not For Tony, but for me
The waiter started us off with a bottle of wine and several appetizers, including a bruschetta pizza, a plate of cold cuts and cheeses, and a plate of hot antipasti that included samples of chicken or cheese finger food. Everyone was extremely attentive and constantly brought new and exciting things for us to try, and we loved every bite of it.
Each plate was perfect
When it came time for the entrees, I know I had to get the Not For Tony, a Sopranos-spin on the classic Eggplant Parmesan. My friends ordered Carmela’s Baked Ziti and an Agent Harris Marsala, and like family, we shared it all.
Cheers.
After that terrific meal, the waiters brought over some desserts, which included a plate of fresh fruit and a plate of zeppole, an italian pastry covered in powdered sugar. We also each were given a shot of a green sweet liquor, which we cheersed and downed simultaneously. As I sat back, I reflected upon the parallels between where I was now and Tony’s restaurant frequents with his friends. Sure, I did not have a criminal empire, but I had friends that I treated like family, laughs, and good food, all of which Tony was very familiar with.
Visit Da Nico Ristorante to see Tony’s Table for yourself, and try some of the best food I have had in recent memory for yourself.
I was but a child in high school when I first randomly chose The Sopranos from a list of possible shows I could watch on my HBO, and having now completed it several times, it has rocketed up to one of my favorite shows of all time, along with Breaking Bad and The Office. With the 25th anniversary of its original premiere upcoming on January 10th, 2024, HBO reached out to me to experience the pilot episode once more in a screening at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Lower Manhattan, in an event that would celebrate the shows popularity, influence, and legacy.
The Alamo Drafthouse VHS collection
The first spectacle was the theater itself. The Alamo Drafthouse was renowned as a theater, restaurant, and bar all rolled into one, offering patrons the unique ability to order food while watching, and having servers bring it to you mid-film. The theater’s love of film was very evident, with a whole room dedicated to professing a spectacular collection of movies all on VHS, and various antique movie posters and memorabilia. It felt like a miniature museum within the theater, and I appreciated the dedication and attention to detail. The theater had also set up a The Sopranos themed backdrop, complete with a fake meat market akin to the one seen in the show, and a small “outdoor” table at which fans could pose with props and clothing from the show. For a brief moment, I was in the show’s universe, and it was magical.
We headed back to the theater and took a seat while the event began. Each person’s seat had a small gift bag which contained The Sopranos merchandise. Mine had a little Funko Pop! figure of Carmela Soprano, which I thought was cute.
My pizza. Tony would be proud.
The night started with a little bit of trivia about the show, and while I was unable to win a prize for any of the questions, I got all of them correct in my head, thinking of the answer a split second before another individual said it each time (I swear). To prepare for the screening, I ordered a brussels sprout pizza and a specialty banana cocktail.
Banana cocktail from the menu
Finally, it was time to return to where it all started. The lights dimmed, and for the fifth time in my life, the pilot of The Sopranos began playing, and I sat back with a smile on my face. This would be the first time in my adult life that I would be watching this show, and right away I could tell that I was picking up on emotions and motives that I had not previously detected. I saw James Gandolfini Jr. begin talking about the ducks as Tony Soprano once more, and watching his amazing performance and thinking ahead to where this show would go in six seasons, I couldn’t help but realize that I desperately needed to rewatch it. This was a show that had started a golden age in modern television, one which was still ongoing.
Ready for the screening
As I watched Gandolfini Jr.’s nuanced performance, I realized truly the impact that this show has had, and shuddered at the thought of where we would have been without it.
I am currently almost through the first season of the show on my fourth rewatch, and I am enjoying and eagerly anticipating every moment of it. This screening of the pilot ignited a dormant love for the show that I have had for a while, and I hope it did the same to the other attendees at the event. A celebration of this show’s 25th anniversary was the perfect way for HBO to bring new interest to the show, and I hope it remains popular and continues to influence generations to come.
I am not going to downplay it: I am a massive fan of the original Netflix series Squid Game, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk. The series is absolutely brilliant in its portrayal of modern capitalist struggles, and the lengths that struggling people will go to, sacrificing everything that they have, just for some money. When I heard that Netflix was making a spin-off gameshow called Squid Game: The Challenge, I was immediately excited; this is exactly what I had been waiting for. Taking the existing show and turning into something real and tangible, with the largest cast and the largest cash prize in reality TV history. I eagerly watched the episodes when they released, in
The claw machine from the show
anticipation of the next while each episode became more and more tense. This is when I received an invite to attend a premiere for the final episode, and I knew I had to attend.
The venue itself was situated along the west side of Manhattan, and was absolutely beautiful. As I entered, I saw many contestants from the show arrive as well, with their player number imprinted on the vehicle.
Squid Game Workers
Seeing favorites from the show was surreal, and I even saw contestants from the final three, such as Sam and Mai. Inside, the whole venue had been decorated with stunning Squid Game imagery, with quotes from the show on the walls and the red-clad workers with the iconic shapes on their helmets standing guard as exciting picture opportunities. Also available were several activities and treats: I saw a claw machine and a giant game of battleship, both pulled straight from the show. There was a food stand offering pretzels, and a bar offering themed cocktails, such as one called Red Light, Green Light after the show’s first game.
I played a quick game of battlefield, and attempted to sink my opponents ships using oversized pegs and ship pieces. I came close, but unfortunately he got the better of me in the end. It was crazy to think that I was playing this game so casually, and losing with no consequences, while losing the same game in the show meant an immediate reduction of your chances of winning millions of dollars to zero.
Jumbo Battleship
I went around to take some pictures with the Squid Game workers (they were thankfully peaceful here), and before I knew it, the premiere was about to begin. I took my seat, and the final three contestants, Sam, Mai, and Phil came up to the stage to give a short introduction. I watched them introduce themselves and the premise of the show, and I knew that they knew which one of them had won: they were already aware of this cherished secret. After final remarks, the episode began.
THE FOLLOWING CONTAINS SPOILERS ABOUT THE FINAL EPISODE OF SQUID GAME: THE CHALLENGE
The final episode was enthralling. I was on the edge of my seat trying to decide who would come out on top. Sam, Phil, and Mai were all at a feast, which concluded with them being given the next task: randomly choosing one button out of three to pick. If the button went green, they and one other of their choice could proceed; if the button went gray, nothing would happen; if the button went red, they would be eliminated. It was an interesting concept that kept the outcomes random, but also allowed for a hint of decision making in who would be selected to come to the next stage. Surprisingly enough, the person I thought would win immediately lost: Sam. I was gutted, but excited to see what would happen next.
The final contestants on stage
We also received some backstories to the characters, where I learned what Mai, Phil, and Sam had to go through. Each had had a tough life, and I still could not decide who I was rooting for.
The final game was again a random one that could have a little bit of strategy to it: rock, paper, scissors. The two remaining contestants would throw their selection again and again, and each winner would be able to select a key to unlock a safe. The first to find the correct key would win the game. After what seemed like hours, and with Mai clearly overpowering Phil in her critical thinking and strategy, she found the correct key and won. The whole room burst into applause, and confetti was shot into the air over the crowd. I was astonished at the winner, but simultaneously extremely happy for Mai. She seemed like she really needed the money, and she had had nothing but hardships throughout her life, including a teenage pregnancy and being kicked out of her family. She absolutely deserved it.
Confetti for the winner
THIS MARKS THE END OF THE SPOILERS SECTION
I had an amazing time at the premiere of the final episode, and although I had already been watching the show, it was something different to be able to watch it in the same room as hundreds of other fans. If you have not already watched the show on Netflix, I wholeheartedly recommended it. The show tackles the human spirit, and the importances of friendships and enemies likewise in achieving one’s goals. It is one of the best shows that I have watched in 2023, and is a must-see.
Thank you to Netflix and the Squid Game team for the amazing opportunity.
With the release of The Marvels, the MCU’s next major film, many have been wondering if this one is as good as previous films, if it is essential to understanding Phase 4, and if it should be watched now or later on Disney+. These questions always arise with every new Marvel release, but I can say with enthusiasm that audiences must understand how great The Marvels is as a film, and how it should not be skipped at all this season.
Guests attend the Urban Hydration + Marvel private screening of “The Marvels” at AMC 42 in New York, New York, on Nov. 9, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Holtermann/Sipa USA)
Below are five reasons you should watch The Marvels as soon as possible, or you’re missing out.
The Marvels features the return of fan-favorite characters and actors
One of the first noticeable draws to watching a major blockbuster film like The Marvels is its use of a stellar cast, some of which are favorites among Marvel fans. Fans have been clamoring for a return for Iman Vellani, and the character she plays, Ms. Marvel, from her hit Disney+ show of the same name. This is the first time we see her working alongside her idol, Captain Marvel, played by Brie Larson, who we have not seen since Avengers: Endgame, all the way in 2019. Also returning are Teyonah Parris, playing Monica Rambeau, and Samuel L. Jackson, playing his iconic role as Nick Fury. Fans of any of these characters will definitely be pleased, as they are further fleshed out and given new situations they must deal with.
(L-R) Lellies Santiago and Psyche Terry attend the Urban Hydration + Marvel private screening of “The Marvels” at AMC 42 in New York, New York, on Nov. 9, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Holtermann/Sipa USA)
The Marvels makes use of astounding CGI
The film also features amazing action and setpieces that is at times beautiful and a sight to behold. The lush alien landscapes and cosmic battles depicted are crisp, colorful, and grandiose, while still maintaining a level of realism that makes everything look believable. A highlight is the new mechanic that the three titular characters must face, which is that their locations in space are exchanged every time they use their powers. This creates some intense fight scenes that involve them constantly switching places and resulting in frantic, interesting combat that is a pleasure to watch.
Psyche Terry attends the Urban Hydration + Marvel private screening of “The Marvels” at AMC 42 in New York, New York, on Nov. 9, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Holtermann/Sipa USA)
The Marvels tells a compelling and heartfelt story
While there certainly are entertaining visual elements to the film, it should also be noted that the story is particularly intriguing and downright emotional at times. In the film, Captain Marvel struggles with the repercussions of her actions, as she has attempted to use her powers for good, but in doing so, she inadvertently deprived a planet of critical resources. In this film, she must face the consequences of her decisions, and how this affects her relationship with those that look up to her. There were several moments that were almost tear inducing, and those that enjoy a layered and complex plot will find plenty to love here.
The Marvels is funny as hell
I’ll say it: this movie is absolutely hilarious. For all its deeper and slower moments, it has situations that are side-splittingly funny. The movie seamlessly transitions between serious and comical moments, and one of its strong suits is being able to do so in a way that feels natural and not forced, even with high stakes.
D’Andre McKenzie attends the Urban Hydration + Marvel private screening of “The Marvels” at AMC 42 in New York, New York, on Nov. 9, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Holtermann/Sipa USA)
A particular moment that comes to mind is a sequence at a planet where all the inhabitants only speak in song and dance, which leads the main characters to fall into some hilarious situations as they attempt to communicate with these individuals. The movie is filled with moments like these that are extremely memorable.
The Marvels contributes to the overarching story in Phase 4
Lastly, those that want to see some progression with the overall Marvel story in Phase 4 will also be pleased. This film shows some continuation of Nick Fury’s character from Secret Invasion, with a possible setup for a future Avengers film, and also continues this phase’s themes of multiverse and the threats that follow. The after credit scenes show how several old and new characters will make an appearance in future movies, progressing this phase forward.
As can be seen, there are a multitude of reasons to watch The Marvels, and longtime fans of Marvel as well as newcomers will both be pleased. This film has something for everyone, for those that follow the lore extensively to those that are not as serious. Definitely catch this film soon, you will not be disappointed.
Ronnisha Peterson attends the Urban Hydration + Marvel private screening of “The Marvels” at AMC 42 in New York, New York, on Nov. 9, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Holtermann/Sipa USA)
Special thanks also goes out to Urban Hydration, the sponsor of the premiere event that I attended. I tried several of their moisturizing products, and I could see the difference instantly. For someone that suffers from dry skin in the colder months, something like this is an absolute life saver. Urban Hydration’s message itself spoke to me as well. I recognized the connection between the ideas of hydration, balance, and finding power within oneself that Marvel’s superheroes embody, while also having fun. The Algae collection specifically is a testament to Urban Hydration’s commitment to providing effective skincare solutions. It’s designed to cater to various skin needs, emphasizing the importance of self-care and achieving a natural, healthy glow, and I couldn’t be more happy to promote this product: such a business that is proudly woman-owned and that supports woman empowerment is exactly what needs to be brought to light to give their mission a voice.
Founder Psyche Terry shared:
I believe that working with Marvel Studios provides an exciting platform for my to share the story of Urban Hydration’s mission and products in fun and creative ways. I recognized the connection between the message of hydration, balance, and finding power within oneself that Marvel’s Super Heroes embody. The collaboration further expands on our Urban Hydration mission to reach more people, inspiring them to take charge of their skin needs and help power up their glow. The connection between hydration, balance, and inner strength that Marvel’s Super Heroes embody resonates with Urban Hydration’s mission. This collaboration is about product promotion and sharing a powerful message of self-care and empowerment. The Algae collection is a testament to Urban Hydration’s commitment to providing effective skincare solutions. It’s designed to cater to various skin needs, emphasizing the importance of self-care and achieving a natural, healthy glow and I couldn’t be more happy to bring this partnership to everyone.
The Marvels is in theaters right now, and Urban Hydration products can be purchased online from their website.
With the impending TCS New York City Marathon, a long-distance run that sprawled all five boroughs of NYC and over 26.2 miles, New Balance decided to host an event to spotlight specific individuals that had signed up for the marathon, and with the help of New Balance, had taken their game and motivation to the next level. These individuals came from all walks of life and had varying levels of expertise running, and they therefore served as the perfect panelists to channel motivation and generate excitement for the upcoming event.
The event space itself was exuberant and lively, with a bar serving champagne, beer, and wine, and cater waiters walking around with hors d’oeuvres, such as spicy rigatoni vodka and vegetable dumplings. The surrounding walls were emblazoned with the words, “Run Your Way.”
The history of the 1080 sneaker
Along the back of the room was also a display of some of New Balance’s newest creations in terms of footwear, specifically focusing on the 1080 line. A visual diagram of the shoe’s history over 12 iterations was also displayed. I walked around and examined each one while trying a rice ball from the kitchen, and soon enough, the interview with the panelists was announced to begin soon.
Walking onto the stage first was Greydy Diaz, who would serve as the moderator and interviewer for the event. Her backstory was interesting because she had a natural connection with New Balance; she grew up extremely close to a New Balance factory, and could see first hand the impact that brought onto her community. Now, she works as a journalist, producer, and host of the show “Test Run”. She quieted the audience, introduced herself, and ushered in the individuals that would be interviewed.
Moderator Greydy Diaz
Jess Movold, Tommie Runz, Harry Hudson, and Marlon “Chito” Vera walked onto the stage, each person with their own special connection to New Balance and running, and each a participant in the upcoming marathon. Through the interview process, I was able to learn about what motivates each individual, and their unique stories that allowed them to discover running. Jess Movold is an elite runner that is focused on using running as a way to build a community for others, and connect newcomers to the sport. Working as an athlete, coach, creator, and journalist, she works to spread awareness about the benefits of running and make it as assessable as possible.
Tommie Runz used running as a way of coping with his struggles growing up in Detroit while battling addiction, sobriety, and fatherhood. He now works as a content creator and hosts his own Youtube series, which he uses to bring people together and maintain inclusivity, and also uses the platform to talk about his vulnerability and how running has helped him.
Harry Hudson is the most recent advocate of running from those on stage, having only started several months ago, but his story was no less powerful. He battled Hodgkin’s lymphoma early in his life, and as a musician, he used music and running to maintain his physical and mental health. He will be participating in the TCS marathon for the first time this year, and raising money for his charity.
Lastly was Marlon “Chito” Vera, an Ecuadorian UFC fighter who utilizes running to build mental and physical strength, by running thirteen miles each Sunday as part of his training. With this increasing his stamina in and out, he can stay more focused during fights and last much longer than his opponents. The most unlikely out of the panelists to be thought of as a runner, he demonstrated to us that anyone could run.
I truly felt inspired after hearing the panelists’ stories, and I began to reflect on my own workouts and how I may incorporate running to be a part of them. I have traditionally overlooked cardio exercises, but after learning about the overwhelming benefits to the heart, body, and mind, I decided that I would take the initiative to begin running.
Rapper Action Bronson gave a stellar live performance to end the night
I could not run in the TCS marathon this year, but I really want to do so next year, and this would only be possible after becoming comfortable with running. Of course, New Balance would be there with their amazing products along the way.
At the end of the night, we were greeted by a performance by Queens-based rapper Action Bronson and his band, who played a myriad of covers, original pieces, and Action Bronson’s own music. Donning New Balance 990s, his energy and care towards lyricism were truly a sight to behold. On the way out, New Balance employees were giving sneakers to all media attendees, much to my surprise. Internally acknowledging that I had no excuse to avoid running now, I added a reminder to my phone to go on a run the next day. I no longer felt threatened by the prospect, because after all, I would be running my way.