In any story, the protagonist is typically the “good guy,” it’s the guy the audience roots for, it’s the guy that the viewer wants to succeed. As the cinematic world evolved throughout the 20th century, the boundaries for what a protagonist could be were pushed beyond any limitations that were thought to be. Filmmakers have been redefining the concept of a protagonist in a multitude of ways, and one of these ways is by making the protagonist an undesirable person, somebody who may lack morality, or is maybe just an evil person; but at the same time, it’s these same traits that make those characters some of the most complex and intriguing to date. Many characters from a vast amount of films fall under this category, some notorious ones being Alex DeLarge (A Clockwork Orange), Patrick Bateman (American Psycho), Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield (Pulp Fiction), Derek and Danny Vinyard (American History X), and one of my personal favorites of all time, from director Martin Scorsese’s 1976 masterpiece, Travis Bickle of the film Taxi Driver. 

Martin Scorsese is a director, producer, and screenwriter from the New Hollywood Era, and was one of the many directors at the time to push filmmaking in new directions and produce cutting-edge films, some of his most famous being The Wolf of Wall Street, Goodfellas, Raging Bull, Gangs of New York, and of course, Taxi Driver. His films often explore people’s complexities in modern society, often being unstable people trying to find a spot for them in their world. Taxi Driver serves us a take on this exact concept, with Travis Bickle being one of the most prominent examples of instability and toxic masculinity to date. 

Taxi Driver follows a 26-year-old Vietnam veteran named Travis Bickle, a lonesome man who takes up a job as a taxi driver, due to his inability to sleep at night. Travis spends the majority of his days and nights driving around New York City, transporting all different kinds of people to their desired destination. As time goes on, he becomes infatuated with a woman named Betsy, a woman who is largely involved in a senator’s election campaign, but he fails to be desirable to her. As Travis witnesses the decay of a once beautiful city, he gains the urge to meet the vulgar people with violence and embarks on a mission to save a pre-teen prostitute named Iris from a life on the streets. 

Taxi Driver is critically acclaimed for an abundance of reasons, with just some of those being the stunning visuals, the jaw-dropping performances, and the impeccable writing/dialogue and directing. To say the least, Taxi Driver is one of the most visually appealing films ever to hit the big screens of cinema. The entire film is shot beautifully, the use of lighting to reflect Travis’s state of mind, and the film’s overall themes are executed brilliantly. Scorsese and cinematographer Michael Chapman create a hazy, dream-like atmosphere to display most of the scenes featuring Travis driving his taxi during the night, with bright lights shining in all directions to contradict the dark night and to place emphasis on Travis’s growing mental instability. Starring Robert De Niro, Jodie Foster, Cybill Shepherd, and Harvey Keitel, the amazing actors give some of their best performances in their careers, the standout obviously being De Niro. I personally would argue that this is De Niro’s best performance in any film he’s been in, and I’ve seen many movies with the acclaimed actor. His line delivery is unparalleled, he delivers some of the most thought- inducing, cold, and iconic dialogue and monologues all at the same time, ie the infamous “You talkin’ to me?” scene where Travis envisions an interaction with an imaginary person, where he displays his excitement towards a violent altercation. The supporting actors also complement De Niro with an impressive ability to portray their characters with brutal honesty, with the young Jodie Foster being a huge standout. Having to fulfill a disturbing role for such a young actress was very bold, but Foster was able to deliver a convincing portrayal of a pre-teen caught in a bad situation. Scorsese clarifies that he knows exactly what he wants out of the actors throughout the film, as no actor shows a lack of direction for their given character. The dialogue throughout the film, especially between Travis and Betsy, and Travis and Iris, is written and portrayed so naturally, no matter how delusional or naive it might sound. The actors only enhance this factor of Taxi Driver. Travis’s monologues are also executed perfectly, with memorable and evocative lines to display the downward spiral that Travis falls into. One more thing that shines throughout the film is the eerie, intense, but beautiful soundtrack composed by the late Bernard Hermann. The soundtrack helps to build intensity in every scene, reflect everything happening inside Travis’s head, and truly elevates the film. 

Thematically, Taxi Driver is one of the most mindful films to tackle the concepts of isolation, loneliness, mental instability, psychological disorder, toxic masculinity, and a sense of purpose. Travis Bickle is the embodiment of a lonely man who fails to understand how to express his frustration and confusion, causing his mental state to deteriorate into an inferno of violent anger. Early in the film, Travis narrates things he writes about in his journal, starting with simple comments on his daily routines. Still, as the film progresses, these journal entries start to become more delusional and childish as Travis’s mental state begins its downfall until they just stop entirely. As a result of intense loneliness and the fantastical sense of purpose that he adopts and embraces, Travis becomes the perfect representation of a man consumed by a toxic masculine idea of being a “hero.” Travis succumbs to the idea that he should be something more than he is, and in turn adopts a vigilante-like mindset that he uses to satisfy his frustration. The entire concept of Travis Bickle, his worldview and moral compass, is summed up by a line early on from Betsy during a date with Travis, where she implies that Travis is “a walking contradiction.” This interaction is one of the most important in the entire film, as Travis is the prominent example of “a walking contradiction.” Scorsese and writer Paul Schrader leave it to the audience to figure what exactly is “a walking contradiction” and how it applies to Travis, so I’m going to do the same with my audience and leave it to the viewers to interpret it for themselves, as merely explaining it could not do this brilliant thematic concept any justice. 

Martin Scorsese created a film that transcends any norm or expectation of a moving picture and made something that can truly be classified as art. Everything about Taxi Driver is simply brilliant. The presentation, direction, performances, thematic realm, and ambiguous message are all executed with perfection, making the film truly ahead of its time, as Travis Bickle redefined what a protagonist could truly be. Taxi Driver has been a monumental influence in cinema ever since its release, and has made myself view films in a new light, it opened my eyes to what a film could truly be. 

“I’m God’s lonely man.”

                             -Travis Bickle

You’ve probably seen several Instagram posts stating your favorite food or Starbucks drink based on your zodiac sign. Even if you think those posts are stupid or incorrect, I’m sure you’re also guilty of indulging once in a while. Horoscopes have been around for over 2,000 years, meaning they must have some truth to them, Right? So…maybe they can help you determine what University of California you should attend. With the UC applications season ending in November, maybe UHS News can help.

University of California, Los Angeles

Aries (March 21 – April 20) 

Aries is the first zodiac sign, giving Aries a desire always to be number one. They love the competition that comes along with being the best. Aeries are also very passionate and want to find a school that will fulfill their dreams. 

Scorpio (October 24 – November 22)

Scorpios are very determined and resourceful. They like demonstrating their assertive and leadership qualities. Scorpios love their passions and want to find a school that will let them thrive. 

Los Angeles is full of progressive youngsters trying to make it big. UCLA is known for being a party school. However, UCLA is also very prestigious, and academics are fundamental. Students are competitive and determined to get good grades. Los Angeles offers so many opportunities to anyone that has the pleasure of living there. For people to make it in Los Angeles, they need good leadership and networking abilities. Aries and Scorpio will fit right in!

University of California, Berkeley

Aquarius( January 21 – February 19) 

Aquarius are deep thinkers and enjoy intellectual conversations. They are often very reserved and independent and thrive being around like-minded people. They want a school that will fulfill their intellectual needs. 

Sagittarius ( November 23 – December 21)

Sagittarius are idealists with open minds. They are interested in religion and finding the meaning of life. Sagittarius’ want a college that will allow their minds to experience and process the world around them. 

UC Berkeley is filled with creative thinkers and progressive ideals. Most people want to attend UC Berkeley to enrich their minds with knowledge, rather than just getting a degree for a good job. Berkeley students are typically brilliant and are willing to put in the work to get good grades. UC Berkeley has a beautiful campus near San Francisco and Oakland, meaning students always have things to do. Aquarius and Sagittarius’ interest in activism and philosophy will be a perfect fit at UC Berkeley.

University of California, Santa Barbara

Libra ( October 24 – November 22)

Libras are very social and hate being alone. They often desire peacefulness above anything else. Libra would enjoy an entertaining school that allows them to learn and gain knowledge. 

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Geminis are very curious and social. They are usually able to learn new concepts/ideas very quickly. Gemini wants a college that will introduce them to new people and places.  

UCSB is a great place for curious and social individuals. It is commonly known as the most prominent “party school” in the UC system while simultaneously providing outstanding learning opportunities. Students will always be entertained with the abundance of classes and social activities, not to mention that the campus is right on the beach. UCSB is the perfect school for Libra and Gemini.

University of California, San Diego

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Taurus are known for their loyalty. Often very responsible and willing to take on academic challenges. They want their surroundings to reflect who they are as a person. A college with the right balance of challenging academics and fun activities will suit them very well. 

Virgo ( August 23 – September 23)

Virgos are very analytical and hard-working, leading them to take more complex classes. They love nature and beautiful surroundings. They want a college that will let them freely explore more challenging academic courses. 

UCSD provides students with challenging classes and remarkable campus architecture. San Diego is one of the most desirable places in California. Students are often amazed by La Jolla’s beautiful scenery. Although La Jolla is not a college town, it’s full of fun activities and is very close to the beach! Virgo and Taurus will be able to appreciate the UCSD’s beauty. 

University of California, Santa Cruz

Pisces ( February 20 – March 20)

Pisces appreciate creative and artist values. They often associated themselves with deep emotional understandings. They will thrive at schools that grates the ability to explore artistic classes.

Capricorn ( December 22 – January 20)

Disciplined and responsible, Capricorns are very serious. Since Capricorn represents time, they’re usually interested in math and numbers. Quality, beauty, and a school with strong academics is essential to Capricorns. 

UCSC’s beautiful campus is in the middle of California’s redwoods! The entire school is very laid back. Although students don’t usually party, there’s an abundance of other activities keeping students entertained. Capricorn and Pisces’ will enjoy UCSC’s beauty and intellectual classes. 

University of California, Davis

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Cancers are exceptionally sentimental. They will appreciate a more intimate atmosphere. Cancers will enjoy a school that makes them feel comfortable and close to their community.

Leo ( July 23 – August 22) 

Leos are creative and passionate, needing a UC with great academic classes. A school with a beautiful campus and excellent living arrangements are must-haves for Leo.

Davis is known for its adorable college town! UC Davis usually has huge sports and pride events. This UC allows students to feel welcomed in a beautiful environment with many opportunities to engage and hang out with classmates. If you’re interested in environmental issues, Davis is the school for you. Almost every student bikes to class every day! Davis is in between SF and Sacramento, meaning students don’t only have an abundance of opportunities at UC Davis but also in the surrounding cities. Leo and Cancer will enjoy their time spent at UC Davis. 

England has a monumental amount of history associated with music, with considerable achievements, genres, and movements having a vast influence on music worldwide. England is known for bringing us many musical scenes that have reached various heights of popularity since the twentieth century. One groundbreaking scene to emerge during the seventies was the British Punk scene, a genre born out of the youth’s anger and frustration. Musically, Punk is characterized by its simplistic and fast approach to heavier rock music and its DIY aesthetic of recording. Still, as a movement, it was an outlet for the repressed youth at the time to express their feelings about society. Lyrically, Punk often expresses an anti-establishment attitude and advocacy for equal rights among the people, appealing to a more politically progressive audience. Punk continued to blow audiences’ minds in underground scenes years after its inception, with scenes emerging worldwide, and eventually, new styles of the abrasive genre would begin to form in the late 1970s and through the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. One such genre to adopt the Punk attitude and aesthetic is the genre known today as Post-Punk. 

As with any genre, there will be daunting bands and artists that attempt to make something new out of an established genre. Post-Punk is a subgenre that isn’t afraid to be just as abrasive and forward-thinking as original Punk but elevates the genre to new heights of bold experimentation. Post-Punk was born out of the U.K. during the late seventies and essentially diverged from Punk’s simplistic nature and experimented with more sounds and lyrical themes, forming more sophisticated style instrumentation and songwriting. Various bands that are considered to be Post-Punk pioneers have garnered mass acclaim and success throughout the world, a few notable ones being Joy Division, Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, and The Smiths. The sound of Post-Punk isn’t specific to one style but utilizes other styles of music to lift the music off of the ground and make it overall more powerful. All of the mentioned bands from above have different sounds and song composition styles but share the same intensity and honesty in their delivery. The Queen Is Dead by The Smiths differs significantly from let’s say In the Flat Field by Bauhaus, with the latter being a lot heavier and raw than the former. Still, both records are reminiscent of the Punk energy that came before as both are incredibly abrasive in their own right, despite being very far apart from each other instrumentally, and that’s where the real beauty of Post-Punk is created. Not every band under the Post-Punk label was able to achieve others’ admiration in the genre though, one of those bands being called This Heat.

This Heat was formed in 1976 in Camberwell, London by Charles Bullen, Charles Hayward, and Gareth Williams. Before forming This Heat, all of the members were in different bands that dissolved fairly quickly, and Bullen and Hayward were able to bond over their similar music tastes and formed the band with visual artist Gareth Williams. The band wasn’t able to get much radio play throughout their short career but are now regarded as Post-Punk pioneers because of their unique songwriting and experimentation. This Heat only released two records, but their sophomore album titled Deceit, is a staple of 20th-century experimental music.

This hellish concept record takes a trip into humanity’s darkest and deepest anxieties, as it reflects the fear the band felt of an impending nuclear apocalypse. It’s almost fruitless to try and explain Deceit’s depths, as there are many ideas to be explored both lyrically and instrumentally, but that same idea is part of what gives it its charm. What Deceit does best is creating a dark and fearful tone that is tied together with the lyrics and instrumentation, making the record feel consistent and cohesive. Deceit features some of the most bizarre instrumentation I’ve ever heard, with a heavy emphasis on percussion which provides a jumbled tempo on most songs with jangly cymbals and a tight snare. The guitar and bass work on here is just as confusing, as it’s continuously shifting on all fronts, being just as messy as the drums. During this record, the vocals are just as spontaneous as the other instruments, as they can go from a low chant to a piercing scream in only a few seconds. Lyrically, this is a peculiar album that explores an impending nuclear apocalypse and its aftermath while also reflecting on humanity itself. The song “Paper Hats” dives into human ignorance, and when we’re confronted with things that we don’t (or are unable to) anticipate and starts off asking “What do we expect? Paper hats? Or maybe even roses? The sound of explosions?” The group leaves it up to the listener to try and answer these questions, making the listener think more clearly about what they really value. In “Makeshift Swahili,” the singer screeches out lyrics describing the loss of language in a supposed aftermath of an apocalypse, depicting humanity continuing to sink into chaos and despair. The track titled “Independence” is literally the opening lines to the American Declaration of Independence, where the entire band chants “We hold these truths to be self evident, That all men are created equal, That they are endowed by their creator with certain rights, That among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” I found that these lyrics described the irony of an older society before the apocalypse, where people were supposedly equal and could pursue anything they dreamed of, but when faced with death, the nature of mankind shifts entirely. 

Overall, a simple review couldn’t do this record justice, as there are many layers to explore and many things to take away from it. I recommend just going and listening to the record, it’s really something that should just be experienced.

It’s coming up on seven years since the release of Sony’s PlayStation 4, and we are eagerly awaiting a new release. 

All summer, Sony has been teasing the release of its new PlayStation with possible designs and a confirmation of its name (PlayStation 5, not surprisingly). They just recently released the official design of the console itself, as seen below. There are two versions of the console, the original release (left) has a disk slot for old PS4 disks, and the digital edition (right) has no disk slot and can only support downloadable games.

Because it has been so long since the last release and people have acquired quite a collection of games, Sony has decided to make the console backward compatible with the PS4. Releasing a console without backward compatibility may have caused people not to buy the new console and stick with their old one since they would have to re-buy all the games they had.

Along with the looks, Sony has released its over-the-top specs for the PS5. They say their console can support up to 120 fps (frames per second) and 120 Hz output (refresh rate for TVs/monitors). They also stated that the SSD (memory) is much quicker and has “near-instant load times”. They say that the PS5 can also support 8k output resolution, which is way overkill because 8k TVs and monitors cost almost as much as the system itself.

As far as the controller, Sony advertises adaptive triggers that would further immerse you in certain games. The adaptive trigger means the trigger gets more challenging to pull back the further it is pushed. Having adaptive triggers makes for a more realistic experience while depressing the brake when driving or drawing a bow to shoot an arrow. 

Designers also decided to put a built-in microphone inside the controller, eliminating the need for separate headphones.

Ever since the PS2, Sony has named their controllers “DualShock,” referring to the controller’s dual vibration motors. With the PS5, they changed the name to “DualSense,” possibly because of the added features such as the internal mic and the adaptive triggers.