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Phoebe Ollerearnshaw

Gun control

Do Millennials Trust Trump with Gun Control?

Last month’s shooting in Las Vegas has reignited the familiar debate: Is US gun control stringent enough?

On the night of October 1, a gunman opened fire on a crowd of concertgoers at the Route 91 music festival on the Las Vegas Strip, Nevada. The incident, that left 54 people dead and another 546 injured, has now been confirmed as the most fatal mass shooting in American history. This tragic turn of events has once again fueled a fire in those wishing to enforce stricter gun laws. It has also brought the issue of bump fire stocks—stock of semi-automatic weapons that mimic the firing capabilities of automatic weapons—back into focus.

Of all the murders in the US in 2012, 60 percent were by firearm compared with 31 percent in Canada, 18.2 percent in Australia, and just 10 percent in the UK. According to Politifact, the annual death toll from gunfire in the US between 1968 and 2011 eclipses all wars ever fought by the country. For the statistics visit politifact.com.

Gun control is a notoriously divisive issue in the US, particularly because the right to bear arms is enshrined in the constitution:

“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

The Second Amendment has always been at the heart of America’s gun control debate, since its ratification there have been arguments to its precise meaning. One interpretation is that the “well-regulated militia” clause refers only to official militia carrying guns legally. An opposing viewpoint believes that the amendment gives all citizens the right to own guns, to protect themselves in the face of danger. President Donald Trump is a firm advocate of the latter reading. Since being elected into the White House, he has signed a bill into law rolling back the Obama-era regulation of gun purchases to those with mental illnesses.

Recent figures released by the FBI show gun homicides have risen 32 percent between 2014 and 2016, which has triggered many people to insist that changes be made. A recent survey conducted by ABODO questioned 1,000 of their users about gun regulation and the government’s tactics to curb violence. This investigation focused on the millennial standpoint—the generation that will inherit such policies in decades to come. The results were poignant, yet not wholly surprising.

When asked the question: “Does the US have a problem with mass shootings?” the answers were as follows—80.15 percent said “Yes”, 12.88 percent said “Not more than any other country” and 6.97 percent thought “No, the media over reports them”.  The survey goes on to unearth that 77.96 percent of the millennials tested thought that guns were too easy to purchase. When faced with the query, “Should private citizens be able to own AR-15s?” 62.1 percent of millennials said “No citizen needs a military grade weapon”, with an extra 26.86 percent stating that “Maybe, but there should be a lot more screening and mandated safety courses”. Millennial respondents also favored increased regulation with 60.04 percent stating that they believed gun violence would decrease if guns were monitored more stringently.

The same group of participants was then questioned about the Trump administration and whether they were believe they are equipped to handle the gun control debate. The results were eye opening. ABODO’s results were split into three categories: all respondents, gun owners and those who didn’t own a gun. One would perhaps have thought that gun-owners would view the topic in a different light to those that do not own a firearm. In fact, all categories showed a majority leaning towards “No”. All respondents: 74.33 percent “No”; gun-owners: 52.6 percent “No” and those who don’t own guns: 79.1 percent said “No”.

Currently, the future of gun law in America seems uncertain—only time will tell. What is certain is the millennial opinion on Trump’s competency to tackle gun legislation. To the question: Do millennials trust Trump with gun control? The answer is a resounding NO!

Do you think gun control is an issue in the US? We would like to hear from you.

Further reading: Trump’s Paris Climate Deal Catastrophe 

The Handmaid’s Tale Wins Best Drama at the 2017 Emmys

The Handmaid’s Tale won Best Drama at the 2017 Emmys on September 17, making history. This marks the first time a streaming drama has won such an award with Hulu being its producer.

Winning five of the prestigious awards in total, it was a clean sweep for the daring and heart-wrenching drama. Elisabeth Moss humbly accepted the prize for Best Actress alongside her co-star Ann Dowd, who earned the honor of Best Supporting Actress. Moss used her acceptance speech to thank her mother: “You are brave and strong and smart. You have taught me that you can be kind and a f*****g badass.”

Hulu’s shrewd adaption of Margaret Atwood’s acclaimed 1985 novel immediately drew speculation upon its release. Each episode brought with it dispute and passionate conversation, with social platforms erupting after each one had aired. It therefore comes as no surprise that the gritty plot and tense visuals made a lasting impression on viewers.

The story follows June Osbourne, or Offred as she now must be referred, a handmaid whose sole purpose in life is to bear children for barren aristocrats. The Handmaid’s Tale is a bleak look at humankind and the lengths some will go to preserve its existence. Hulu’s choice of actors and actresses could well be the key to their success. Whilst managing to capture Offred’s inner monologue, Moss depicted her struggles and occasional triumphs masterfully throughout the series. The messages of feminism and female resilience within the story have never felt so poignant nor so relevant as they are today. During times of political turmoil, such stories are clearly important to viewers.

This point was made multiple times during the Emmys—jabs at America’s current political structure were made at every opportunity. Setting the tone of the evening, host Stephen Colbert, goaded, “Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote”, which was met with laughter and applause. Ted Cruz and other political figures were in the firing line, but the main source of condemnation was president Donald Trump.

Not only was the evening a triumph for the cast of The Handmaid’s Tale and its writers, it was also an opportunity to praise the story’s conceiver—Margaret Atwood. Atwood received the most adoring roar of cheers and praise as she entered the stage to join the series’ cast. “One take-away would be ‘never believe it can never happen here’, which was one of the premises I used for the book,” Atwood explained in a speech during the awards. “Nothing went into the book that people hadn’t done at some point in time, in some place,” she emphasised. Atwood’s words were meaningful and affecting, much like her compelling tale.

Other winners of the 2017 Emmys included Riz Ahmed for The Night Of (2016), Nicole Kidman and Laura Dern for Big Little Lies (2017) and Charlie Brooker for his role in writing the limited TV series, Black Mirror (2016).

You might also enjoy: Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk: Predictions, Budgets and Possible Spoilers

New Reports on the James Bond Series

New reports on the James Bond series have revealed that the latest film will be released on 8 November 2019. Producers have confirmed that—as usual—the latest spy flick will first be made available to UK audiences, shortly followed by the US and the rest of the world.

While this release date is an exciting revelation, the other juicy details are being kept strictly close to the chest. What we do know is that Neal Purvis and Robert Wade will direct the currently untitled film. The two British screenwriters co-wrote the previous six films in the saga—from The World Is Not Enough (1999) to Spectre (2015). Sam Mendes, director of Skyfall (2012) and Spectre, commented on his decision to step down from the James Bond series: “It was an incredible adventure, I loved every second of it, but I think it’s time for somebody else”, he remarked.

But the real question on everybody’s lips is this: will Daniel Craig return for an action-packed finale? Will he permit this final flourish to round off a wholly dazzling performance as James Bond? Reports are conflicted. While some sources aren’t entirely willing to specify, entertainment website Page Six has stated outright that Craig will be back for the upcoming installment. After saying he would rather “slash my wrists” than do another, it seems the star may have had a change of heart. Page Six were quoted saying that the producer of the franchise, Barbara Broccoli, “just about persuaded Daniel Craig to do one more Bond movie.” Likewise, reports from The New York Times cited two sources that were close to the production team, confirming that Craig’s agreement was a “done deal”.

Rumours of Tom Hiddleston being next in line have also been quashed after Broccoli made clear her dislike for the actor filling the role. Apparently, she views Hiddleston as “a bit too smug and not tough enough to play James Bond”. Many have deduced that Hiddleston’s dramatic romance with Taylor Swift may also have sealed his fate, possibly leading to the wrong kind of media attention.

Other alleged candidates for the role of 007 upon Craig’s exit include: Idris Elba, Jamie Bell and Tom Hardy. While replacement plans may need to be put on hold, we are still left to ponder who will fill the rather large shoes of Craig once he hangs up his holster.

Other new reports on the James Bond series divulge that there are plans to reunite the Oscar-winning Skyfall singer, Adele, for the opening theme music once again. If it is anything compared to the hauntingly beautiful notes she offered for Skyfall, this will be a winning decision.

There will be a staggering four years between Spectre and the latest member of the saga—based upon the last films’ praise, this new movie in the James Bond series will be worth the wait.

You might also enjoy: Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk: Predictions, Budgets and Possible Spoilers

Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk: Predictions, Budgets and Possible Spoilers

For the super fans that have adored Christopher Nolan’s work from the get-go, the first inklings of Dunkirk (July 2017) were received with open arms. Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk is set to relate the true story of Operation Dynamo; a treacherous mission that demanded the rescue of 400,000 allied troops. These men were cornered by Nazi soldiers at the beaches and harbor of Dunkirk, France, with little hope of survival. The film is to be told from three perspectives of soldiers—from the land, sea and sky.

The Dark Knight trilogy (2005-2012), Inception (2010) and the more recent sci-fi thriller Interstellar (2014), solidified Christopher Nolan as a truly exceptional filmmaker—with each motion picture resulting in a blockbuster hit. His global success has gained him a place at the metaphorical elite director’s table, sat beside the likes of other greats such as Stephen Spielberg, Martin Scorsese and Alfred Hitchcock. Merely the mention of his name in association with a film title has become an indication of quality to both film devotees and casual cinema-goers alike.

Larger-than-life

Christopher Nolan is known widely amongst cinephiles as a man who never does things by halves; so fittingly, he has been given a tremendous budget to work with to create this larger-than-life blockbuster. As a screenwriter and director, he has proven time and again that his pictures can cause a frenzy at the box office and make big bucks—over $4.2 billion at the global box office to be precise. In light of this, it doesn’t come as a huge surprise that Warner Bros Studios has spared no expense in funding his newest and, undoubtedly, most ambitious project to date. Rumors have emerged that Nolan has spent $5 million to procure a vintage Nazi warplane (which he apparently proceeded to wreck for the film’s sake).

The first full trailer for Dunkirk aired back in December, making us all wriggle with excitement. Upon seeing the purposefully stark cinematography and the air of impending horror that laced the five-minute montage, it became clear that this is not a film to be missed.

While obvious comparisons can be drawn between his more recent films and Dunkirk, it feels as though an essence of his earlier work has seeped into this new WWII epic. Hans Zimmer, who skillfully conducted the music for several of his previous movies, will again grace us with his emotive compositions. Likewise, Christopher Nolan’s love for using IMAX cameras will feature once again in this movie. The Dark Knight was the first feature film to use IMAX cameras to shoot selected scenes, and Nolan has employed them ever since. The company’s 15perf 65m film cameras are being hailed as some of the best in the world in terms of clarity and high resolution, giving his audiences a more visceral experience.

Tactical perspectives

Analyzing the full-length trailer of Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk in more detail, there appears to be a focus on character perspectives. From frightened soldiers cowering for cover to avoid overhead Nazi airplane fire, to young boys solemnly queuing to join the boats astride their floating dead comrades. Each shot decisively places the audience in a position where they can share the viewpoint of the characters. This is a classic signature of Christopher Nolan’s storytelling. In some of his earlier films like Memento (2000) and The Prestige (2006), he uses the art of subjectivity to manipulate the audience and distort the storyline. In relation to Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, he has made it clear that he uses point-of-view shots to highlight a characters will to survive. We are provided with their current situation rather than a back story. In an interview with thestar.com Christopher Nolan stated: “It’s the most human movie I’ve ever made because it’s about the desire for survival. We wanted to tackle that and make what I refer to as a very present tense narrative where you’re in the moment with the characters.”

When questioned by French Magazine Premiere, Christopher Nolan also remarked: “I did not want to go through the dialogue to tell the story of my characters. The problem is not who they are, who they pretend to be or where they come from. The only question I was interested in was: Will they get out of it?” Christopher Nolan has insisted on several occasions that the film is “not a war film […] it’s a survival story”.

The sheer scale of the film is enhanced with tactical shooting to make viewers feel minor, as if we are only a tiny dot against the immeasurable chaos of war. In the trailer we briefly follow behind the silhouette of a young fighter as he looks out onto the beach and we share his astonishment as we scan over the sea of men gathered there.

Aside from aesthetics, speculations are mounting on the subject of how this particular film will be received. Christopher Nolan’s key demographic in the past has ranged from teens to middle-aged adults, and has sometimes seen less enthusiasm with older crowds. Perhaps the 1940s historical action film genre will draw in a more mixed crowd on this occasion. Another point to consider: although the events of Dunkirk are an integral part of British history, many are wondering if it will strike the same emotional chord with young American audiences.

An unexpected face

Another controversial choice was that of casting—more specifically, the casting of One Direction superstar Harry Styles. Styles is joined by a gaggle of prestigious cast members such as Tom Hardy, Kenneth Branagh and Cillian Murphy. While Styles isn’t one of the lead characters, his appearance in the film credits has really divided critics. From Styles’ perspective, debuting your acting career with a Christopher Nolan film really isn’t a bad day’s work. But some are worried that the heartthrob may detract from the film’s potent messages. Others have foretold that he may show a surprising knack for the whole acting malarkey, and that this could mark the beginning of a successful film career for him. There is a distinctive moment within the trailer that shows Styles struggling to keep his head above the water in a dramatic struggle against the tide. Could this mean the possible demise of his character? Would teenage girls across the globe be able to bear the heartache? Only time will tell.

Whether you are a Christopher Nolan fan or not, it’s undeniable that the large budget, thoughtful cinematography and epic battle scenes will make Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk a key contender come awards season. Now all that’s left is to wait with anticipation for the film to show in cinemas. Stay tuned for our detailed movie review upon release—watch this space!

Are you excited for the release of Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk? We’d like to read your comments on the subject.

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3D Cinema: Yea or Nay?

Film fans and casual film-enjoyers alike are all faced with the same decision when they reach the ticket booth: 3D cinema; yea or nay?

I don’t know about you, but I hold the opinion that 3D cinema viewing is becoming a little tiresome. Before the release of James Cameron’s Avatar back in 2009, the concept of 3D cinema was dead and buried. Its revival accompanied Cameron’s purposefully shot motion picture, which employed stereoscopic shooting that presented a breakthrough in cinematic technology.

What a leap from the medium’s archaic origin in the 1890s, when William Friese-Greene filed for a patent of a 3D film process. The first 3D film, which premiered at The Ambassador Hotel, was called The Power of Love (1922). Anaglyph glasses were produced to accompany it—anybody young enough to live during the 80s will remember these awkward specs with differing colored lenses. However, since Cameron’s revolution of the 3D experience, cinemas across the globe haven’t been able to get enough of it.

While I can’t fault Cameron’s flawless blockbuster, Avatar, which worked beautifully alongside the intentional 3D effects—I can’t help but wonder, has 3D cinema had its day? And what proportion of the public really enjoys the experience? This is precisely what I intend to investigate.

“You are more likely to find the hidden door to Narnia than you are finding an IMAX cinema that has a ‘without 3D’ possibility.”

 

If you are like me, by the end of a 3D movie your eyes will be raw from the constant attempt to focus them for the entirety of the feature. While 3D cinema boasts of enhancing cinematic features—flying debris looks as though it’s hurtling towards you and spherical objects look even more spherical—I always find the image to be blurry. Being a self-proclaimed cinephile, the resolution of the image is a key factor in my experience. 3D was developed in the hope that it would create an immersive reality for spectators; making them feel a part of the action. Personally, I believe that if the film has been carefully choreographed with thoughtful storytelling, lighting, action and cinematography, I will be well and truly immersed. Certainly no need for blurred objects to fly at my face for that to be achieved.

Not wishing to discredit the art of 3D cinema completely, I believe it can work effectively but there is a time and place for it. If the effects are used in a way that doesn’t allow it to detract from the storyline, but rather enhance it, then these are the films that use it successfully. Unfortunately, 3D cinema has started to apply itself to more unconventional genres like romcoms and horrors. These are not naturally set up for 3D viewing. Horrors in particular are conventionally shot with a dark palette; combined with dark 3D glasses, it can cause a terribly dull visual ordeal. To save money, various low-budget projects have decided to convert their material to 3D post-production. This results in a shoddily made motion picture, that doesn’t align with the objectives of 3D. In an interview with Business Insider, Sean O’Connell, movie content director for Cinema Blend commented that, “if and when you are going to use 3D, you have to plan your shots differently. Applying 3D to already-filmed material rarely helps. You are forcing a square peg into a round hole, essentially.” Likewise, the Guardian reported that “film-makers are beginning to turn against studios that authorise cheap post-production conversions in the hope of achieving a short-term financial return.”

One of my biggest complaints is that 2D options have become far and few between since 3D’s late surge. You are more likely to find the hidden door to Narnia than you are finding an IMAX cinema that has a “without 3D” possibility. However, mine is one lowly opinion—what really matters is what everybody else thinks. A social group that is known to dislike the 3D cinema frenzy is those with prescribed glasses. They are faced with the unfortunate decision; “do I go for glasses on glasses?” Or “do I choose impaired vision with only the 3D glasses?” Neither are enjoyable options; the latter meaning reduced quality and the first causing discomfort.

But glasses-wearers aren’t alone; those working within the industry have been indicating negative feelings towards 3D cinema for a while now. The Film Industry Survey 2014 tested the results of 1,235 film industry professionals with the question: Do you agree with the statement “A film is more enjoyable in 3D than in 2D”? The survey found that only 1 percent of those working on films over $1 million believed that a film is more enjoyable in 3D than in 2D. The industry sector that enjoyed 3D the most was marketing; although their results still showed 79 percent against and 21 percent for.

The steadily growing grumble of the public appears to be finally reaching the ears of critics. Earlier this year, TV giants Samsung, LG and Sony halted production of their 3D TV sets. Each confirmed that there was a lack of enthusiasm and demand within the market. “Based on current market trends we decided not to support 3D for our 2017 models,” stated one of Sony’s representatives. Instead, each of these companies will be investing in improvements to their high dynamic range (HDR). While this relates to disengagement with 3D home entertainment, it may also indicate the possibility that cinemas will eventually follow suit in phasing it out.

What are your views—3D cinema: yea or nay? Do you think it’s here to stay or is it a fad that is soon to pass? We want to hear your views!

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Best Campaigns Championing Women

Best Campaigns Championing Women

The last few decades have seen a huge shift in the position that women hold within society. While general perceptions have gradually moved away from the idea that females shouldn’t have equal rights, discrimination still lingers. Across the world, various organizations have focused their efforts on subverting gender bias—we share with you some of the best campaigns championing women.

One of the most prominent debates within Western society revolves around the workplace; women are receiving unequal pay and less encouragement to fulfil certain roles. According to the National Women’s Law Center, the average woman will earn $430,480 less than the average man over a 40-year work period. Likewise, there is a growing upset that women’s perspectives are being misrepresented within the media: through sexualization or by simply being ignored completely. Other areas across the globe face even more sinister penalties for women and young girls. A number of provinces in Africa still implement Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), also known as female circumcision. Often, young girls are forced against their will to have the procedure as a form of social acceptance and to improve their marriage credentials. Similar practices across the globe like honor killings and restrictions to education prove that female suffering and prejudice still exist and need to be confronted.

June 14 marks the anniversary of the death of Emmeline Pankhurst, the infamous political activist and leader of the British Suffragette movement. Pankhurst’s struggle for the female vote solidified her position as a beacon of strength for women everywhere. In light of this, it seems only fitting that we delve into our investigation—looking at prominent projects that are championing women and that seek to destabilize gender imbalance.

P&G

The consumer goods corporation, Procter & Gamble (P&G), ran a campaign to promote less gender stereotyping. Their #WeSeeEqual movement was released earlier this year and involved a film depicting men, women, boys and girls of all ages, in situations that would usually be construed as gender-specific. Instead, they flip the ideology that certain hobbies, careers and sports should be assigned the label of “male” or “female”. In the film, young girls are depicted showing off their martial arts skills and participating in science experiments—championing women in any role. The footage is accompanied with various taglines including, “Science doesn’t care who studies it,” “Households don’t care who heads them” and “Equal pay doesn’t care who demands it.”

The chief brand officer for P&G, Marc Pritchard, commented, “We realized that because we are a leading company of brands, we can use our voice to express our point of view about gender equality.” Tackling gender bias and stereotyping is “something P&G has been doing in a very genuine way for years, but this is wrapping it up into the corporate value system that I think will also inspire other brands in the house,” added Jim Winters, president of advertising agency Badger & Winters, who worked closely with P&G to create the campaign.

Watch P&G’s short film, here:

Getty Images

In concurrence with P&G’s campaign championing women, recent reports showed that Getty Images is to organise its first female sports photographer summer internship to promote diversity within the sports photography industry—a paid position in their London offices. The internship starts July 2017 and holds the objective of diversifying an industry that has arguably always been dominated by males. The successful female candidate will appear at high-profile events, giving them an exclusive window into the world of sports photography and the opportunity to learn from top talents within the industry. Ken Mainardis, vice president of sports imagery at Getty, remarked, “It is our hope that by actively supporting emerging female talent in the sports photography business we will contribute to a richer and more diverse representation of sports in general, which includes the more realistic representation of sporting women and female-led sports in imagery.”

7 Sisters Project

Another one of the best campaigns championing women in today’s society is the 7 Sisters Project. Founded by mother and daughter duo Marilyn and Marisa Fezza, the scheme aims to encourage young girls to promote social change. In our exclusive interview with Marilyn and Marisa, they shared their perspectives on gender bias and the benefits of championing women’s views. The co-founders highlighted various issues facing women today, ranging from body shaming to restricted reproductive rights. Their forums are specifically dedicated to connecting college-age girls, providing them with a safe platform to discuss important topical issues. Also, their live summits unite college students in a communal venue, providing a platform from which female voices can be heard. “We put the girls sitting in the audience right up on center stage and hand them the mic. Their voices matter,” says Marisa. These discussion panels are then shared through social channels online in the hope that they will reach far and wide, spreading messages of unity and tolerance.

On the 7 Sisters Project, Marilyn expressed that their mission was to create “a positive, aspirational community that speaks to girls of all cultures, beliefs and appearances. Our community redefines beauty and strength, making it cool for women to be powerful and self-aware.” In our discussion, both mother and daughter made it clear that they feel women are socially overlooked and disillusioned. “In the media especially, women are often portrayed as less intelligent and are highly sexualized,” Marisa said. “Many women feel ‘less than’ and rightly so. They earn less, they are treated as property in many countries and they are often the victims of all types of violence. We need to get more women in positions of leadership,” Marilyn added. Aside from conducting 7 Sisters Clubs at schools, the two role models intend to branch out to bigger cities with wider audiences, whilst still focusing on small communities.

CITTA

Other charitable projects have focused their attention on under-developed countries. Michael Daube, the founder of CITTA—a non-profit charity aiming to hoist the education and economy in struggling countries—has recently aimed his campaign at helping women. His recent work in Jaisalmer in India has seen him working closely with the royal family there, to boost the skill set of the women living in the region. The emphasis of the project is to allow women in the state to receive a better education, in both academic and practical skills like weaving and embroidery. This, in turn, will give them the freedom of independence. In a response to questions over Twitter, Michael Daube commented on the sobering thought that “Women seem to always be on the lower end of the totem pole in most societies. Just look at the wage inequalities of women in Hollywood doing the same work; can you imagine Afghanistan?”

What do you think about our top picks for the best campaigns championing women? Are there any schemes within your community that provide women with a voice? Leave us your comments below.

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Blink 182's Latest Video Strikes a Touching Chord

Blink 182’s latest video strikes a touching chord and we love it! The track, Home Is Such a Lonely Place, has left Blink’s fans rejoicing in the light of its reminiscent tones. The video itself is a montage of home movies laid over the mellow track. Bassist Mark Hoppus commented, “The video for ‘Home is Such a Lonely Place’ was probably the easiest we’ve ever filmed,” adding that “all we had to do was be ourselves at home with our family and friends, as we prepared to leave for tour.” Blink 182’s latest video may not be one of their liveliest head-bangers, but its beat has a perfect chilled summer vibe.

The song featured in their latest album California, which was released back in 2016; the first to be released after a five-year hiatus. California received a mixed reception from critics; Rolling Stone magazine commended the band’s decision to replace Tom Delonge with Matt Skiba within the band dynamic, commenting that “[the album shows] endearing signs of growth and even wisdom.” On the flipside, other critics weren’t so kind; The Guardian named it a “bloated and unwieldy return.” Last month, Blink 182 released a deluxe version of the album with a total of 28 songs—11 of which are new.

Regardless of mixed responses to their album, the band’s resurrection has led to their nomination for the artist of the year award at this year’s Alternative Press Music Awards. Blink 182 is set for a busy year of tours and co-headlining a number of acts with Linkin Park this summer. Blink 182’s latest video is a reminder that this old punk band really does have range; hopefully this will shine through in their upcoming tour.

Tour Dates:
July 28: Blinkin Park—Citi Field, New York
July 30: Blinkin Park—Hershey Park Stadium, Pennsylvania
August 4: Lollapalooza—Grant Park, Chicago

Check out their new video and tell us what you think—is it a summer winner, or do you prefer their original tracks?

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Dating App Bumble is Opening Its Own Bar

Dating app Bumble is opening its own bar in New York City!

Dating apps have been an exciting (yet not all that surprising) product of dating within a technological era. From quick swiping apps like Tinder and OKCupid, to apps that seek more depth like Sapio—the dating scene has dramatically changed in the last few years. But just when you thought that the trajectory of the modern dating crowd was evolving into something out of a dysfunctional kitsch 80s sci-fi movie, the reverse proves to be true. If believed the virtual space had nothing to do with the physical, you’d be wrong! It has just been revealed that infamous female-led dating app Bumble is opening its own bar in New York City. Like Tinder, Bumble works on a location-based interface, you match people in your local area. What sets it apart is the concept of females being given the power to initiate a conversation before a male does. While male users can extend an invitation to talk, they can only communicate once the female counterpart accepts. Although this doesn’t cater as well for same-sex couples, it has certainly got them noticed.

The hive

Their aptly named venue, the Hive, provides first-time daters with a location in which to chat, drink and flirt face-to-face without the barrier of a mobile screen. It will be a month-long installation throughout June, located in Soho at 158 Mercer Street. The bar space is a solution to that awkward first decision between daters, “where shall we meet for a first date?” The trick is usually finding the balance between super casual and overly pretentious. Most people can agree that meeting somebody for the first time after becoming accustomed to their text speak and emoji choices can be surreal. The CEO of the app remarked, “Bumble has allowed you to build your hive digitally, and now we’re giving you an extension of that physically.”

Bumble opening its own bar is a decision that has come, after a popular marketing campaign of the app aimed to empower young daters with slogans such as: “Be the CEO your parents always wanted you to marry (then find someone you actually like)”. This media project particularly aimed at boosting the female voice, coinciding with the apps primary motives. In one Instagram post they commented, “At Bumble, we build women up and support each other. We root for the success of all women, as we feel there is room for everyone to have the opportunity to win.”

The hip pop-up Hive by Bumble is decked out with fitting octagonal flourishes to create the appearance of a beehive. Likewise the furnishings glow with touches of yellow and gold, giving it a laid-back appearance. While the venue acts as a meeting place for recent acquaintances it also marks a meeting spot for friends to catch up and relax. The CEO of dating app Bumble explains that it is designed to encourage safety in dating along with expanding your circle of friends. Their creation of the bar is intended for Bumble users and non-Bumble users, in the hope that it will mesh the community.

The venue offers a coffee and a real bar, satisfying casual and more intimate set ups. Would you visit the Hive for your next mingle session? Give us your thoughts below.

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