Reviews

Author Jennifer Lynn Barnes released “Games Untold,” an anthology of novellas and short stories in “The Inheritance Games” series on Nov. 12. Despite differences in stories, key motifs of the series are consistent throughout.

American author Julie Leong released her debut novel “The Teller of Small Fortunes” to all major booksellers on Nov. 5. Despite the book’s nostalgic elements, its dialogue, plot and characters fall flat.

Musician Halsey released her fifth studio album “The Great Impersonator” on Oct. 25, inspired by her battle with lupus and a rare lymphoproliferative disorder. With its raw and unfiltered lyricism, “The Great Impersonator” is her best album thus far.

In partnership with Universal Pictures’ “Wicked”, Starbucks released Elphaba’s Cold Brew and Glinda’s Pink Potion refresher on Oct. 22. While both drinks offered pleasant flavors, neither provided much balance.

Burger King released its Wednesday Whopper, an “Addams Family” take on the classic burger, on Oct. 10. The sandwich is flavorful and fresh, but lacks the anticipated creativity.

After eating at several Asian restaurants around Athens, ODYSSEY staffers concluded that New Red Bowl offers the best beef lo mein.

The third season of the beloved series “Heartstopper,” released to Netflix on Oct. 3, maintains its comfort-show standing while simultaneously touching on difficult topics.

Starbucks added the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte to their previously released Fall Menu on Sept. 19. The drink was overall enjoyable, but had some absence of flavoring.

“Uglies,” released to Netflix on Sept. 13, is a highly predictable dystopian movie that attempts to tackle beauty standards but, in actuality, perpetuates the issue even more.

On Sept. 3, Taco Bell’s Mountain Dew Baja Blast Gelato made its nationwide debut exclusively for rewards members via the Taco Bell app. The treat appears full of flavor, but leaves customers unsatisfied.

On Aug. 9, singer-songwriter beabadoobee released her latest album, “This Is How Tomorrow Moves,” to all streaming platforms, featuring some of her best work to date

“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder,” released to Netflix on Aug. 1, is a flat mystery series that is fine in its own entity but will disappoint fans of the original novel.

“Deadpool and Wolverine,” released to theaters on July 26, allows viewers to dive back into the Marvel Universe and was a fantastic action-comedy that breaks Marvel out of its recent slump.

After trying cold treats around Athens, ODYSSEY staffers conclude that Essential Bowls and Pelican’s SnoBalls are the best options to cool down in the summer heat.

“Baby Reindeer,” released April 11 on Netflix, follows the intense story of trauma based on real-life events.

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” will stun viewers with amazing special effects and impressive storytelling but several jokes did not deliver.

Sarah Arthur’s novel “Once a Queen” was released Jan. 31 and was a strange compilation of genuinely beautiful language and dishwater-dull storytelling.

Variety Staffers Angel Tejada and Aliyah Wymbs review winter holiday songs and movies.

On Oct. 27 the movie “Five Nights At Freddy’s,” centered around haunted animatronics and directed by Emma Tammi, was released to theaters.

Folk-Americana artist Alejandro Rose-Garcia, known professionally as Shakey Graves, released his album “Movie of the Week” on Sept. 15.

On Aug. 28, Dairy Queen re-released the “Fall Blizzard Treat Menu” with the addition of one new flavor.

On Aug. 18, the movie “Strays,” centered around stray pets and directed by Josh Greenbaum, was released to theaters.

Dunkin’s pumpkin spice latte doesn’t disappoint and is sure to be a hit amongst the chain’s avid-fans and new customers alike.

Releasing episodes weekly on Amazon Prime from July 14 to Aug. 18, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is back with a season two and the complicated love triangle viewers may have missed.

“Heart Of Stone,” released Aug. 11, provides viewers with an action-packed yet mediocre watch.

The ODYSSEY Media Group finds the best chocolate milkshake in Athens.

2009 CCHS alumna Amber Wallin and her husband Benjamin Wallin showed the first screening of their movie “We’re Pregnant: And Other Lies” on April 30.

Singer and songwriter Kara Jackson’s debut album, “Why Does the Earth Give Us People to Love?” is filled with raw emotion and beautiful lyrics.

With the 95th Academy Awards approaching on March 12, Variety Editor Isabella Westrich shares her predictions for this year’s winners.

The beloved, best-selling series “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” has begat yet another movie adaptation, this one even worse than the first.

Journalism I students Cooper Jones and Abigail Holloway debate the merits of “Scrooge: A Christmas Carol.”

Journalism I students Angel Tejada and Evan Cornish debate whether “The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special” soared above other Christmas films or fell flat.

After sampling fries from a variety of fast food restaurants across Athens, members of the ODYSSEY Media Group staff conclude that Chick-fil-A and Cookout offer the best fries in town.

Released on Nov. 16, “The Wonder” is a psychological thriller that will leave viewers not only at the edge of their seats but invested and longing for more.

The creepy and kooky Addams Family returns in the new Netflix series “Wednesday”, released on Nov. 23, as Wednesday Addams navigates Nevermore Academy and murderous mysteries.

Netflix’s “Enola Holmes 2,” released on Nov. 4, is an action-packed adventure with clever characters and a mystery that will leave viewers shocked.

Viewers can expect an unapologetically graphic and gritty depiction of a German soldier’s life during World War I from Netflix’s Oct. 28 release of “All Quiet on the Western Front”.

Crumbl Cookies’ flavors of the week aren’t exactly what weekly customers may be used to. Instead, most of the cookies are subpar and something customers may want to sit out on.

At midnight on Oct. 21, Taylor Swift released “Midnights,” her first new album since 2020 and one listeners will not want to miss.

The 1975 released their new album “Being Funny In A Foreign Language” to the public on Oct. 14, with the band delivering a decent album that lacks a star song.

Full of powerful imagery, unique vocals and energetic instruments, Icon for Hire’s latest album, “The Reckoning,” will appeal to most listeners.

Athens’ Slutty Vegan location will delight both vegans and non-vegans with its colorful flavors and personality.

After sampling from different local restaurants, members of the Variety Staff conclude that Thai Spoon and D92 Korean BBQ provide the best noodle soup dishes in Athens.

“Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin”, released on HBO Max on July 28, is a thrilling series that takes the spin-off label to new heights.

The Netflix film “Look Both Ways,” released on Aug. 17, outdoes the streaming companies’ mass of cliche teenage romantic comedies with an inspirational story of a girl whose pregnancy scare takes her on two divergent paths.

News Editor Cadence Schapker and Digital Editor Anna Shaikun review limited-edition sodas available in CCHS vending machines.

With a predictable plot and average acting, “Never Have I Ever: Season 3,” released on Aug. 12, is the perfect show for mindless binging.

After sampling food from different local barbeque restaurants, members of the Variety Staff conclude that Dawg Gone Good BBQ and Pulaski Heights BBQ offer the best barbeque sandwiches in Athens.

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” is a fast-paced film with dynamic visuals and plot, but takes a step back in character development from previous Marvel movies.

The new Pixar film “Turning Red” follows the experience of a Chinese-Canadian family with a secret ability.

Robert Pattinson defies negative expectations and gives a memorable portrayal of Batman in “The Batman,” released March 4.

The Dip’s detailed attention to 60’s soul influences in their March 4 album “Sticking With It” will entice listeners of all kinds, as a pristinely soulful and emotionally dynamic pop album.

The exclusive Netflix series released on Feb. 11 “Inventing Anna” has a constantly moving, but sometimes confusing plot that will leave viewers intrigued with the mystery of Anna Delvey.

Members of the ODYSSEY staff provide reviews of books written by Black female authors focusing on Black stories.

“Tall Girl 2,” released to Netflix on Feb. 11, presents an uneventful narrative with a lackluster viewing experience.

“Peacemaker,” the first television show to be part of the DC Extended Universe, combines mature humor and violence with serious topics on morals and peace in a uniquely James Gunn way.

The new Fanta Dragon Fruit Zero Sugar drink’s bright pink color foreshadows its sugary sweetness that only hardcore dragon fruit fans can appreciate.

Released on Feb. 4, Mitski’s “Laurel Hell” is a multi-faceted exploration of Mitski’s relationship with music, the spotlight of fame, and her flaws and vulnerabilities.

Released on Jan. 14, the Netflix original horror fiction series “Archive 81” is a thrilling and entertaining watch for viewers who seek suspense.

Norwegian singer-songwriter AURORA released a studio album on Jan. 21 that allows listeners to ‘give in to the love’ of her vocals.

The Lumineers released their latest album “BRIGHTSIDE” to the public on Jan. 14, delivering instant hits that will resonate with listeners.

Netflix released season two of the binge-worthy docuseries “Cheer” on Jan. 12, featuring the Texas cheerleaders from Navarro College and Trinity Valley Community College.

The new Marvel movie “Eternals” is an entertaining foundation for future Marvel Studios films, but the lack of an action-packed plotline may be disappointing to some viewers.

Digital Managing Editor Natalie Schliekelman and Photographer Lucas Donnelly go head to head about “Spider-Man: No Way Home:” disappointment or masterpiece?

Released Dec. 5, 2021 on Netflix, “Don’t Look Up,” provides interesting social commentary on climate change through its unique plot.

Microsoft and Playground Games officially released Forza Horizon 5 on Nov. 9, so far one of the best games in the series.

On Nov. 12, Taylor Swift released “Red (Taylor’s Version),” the second of her re-recorded albums. Swift’s powerful vocals take the youthful lyrics and bring life to the older tracks.

Don’t get excited! After four years of releasing no new music, Ed Sheeran has created a new album that sounds exactly like his last one (and the one before that).

While it came a little late for the season it was meant to be celebrating, the new “Cookie Run: Kingdom” Halloween Masquerade update is a must-play because of the added costume system and new playable character.

The spectacular effects and deep story in Dune, which was released to theatres and HBO Max on Oct. 22, leaves viewers wanting more.

Adele’s new single “Easy On Me,” released on Oct. 14, is a commercial and artistic success that demonstrates her mastery of the emotional ballad.

“Faces,” by deceased American rapper Mac Miller, was re-released to streaming platforms on Oct. 15.

While not the perfect movie, “Mortal Kombat,” released April 23, is a great choice for those in the mood for an action film that don’t mind gorey fight scenes.

With the 93rd Academy Awards approaching on April 25, Digital Staffer Jaydon Dennis makes his top predictions for this year’s winners.

“Thunder Force” dumps two otherwise talented actors in a static plot and fails to give them interesting traits, leading to an ultimately unenjoyable viewing experience.

Released on March 13, Weather Widget – Colorful is exactly what it sounds like, an app to create weather widgets for IOS screens.

Weezer released their new album, “OK Human”, in late January. It’s a unique orchestral pop-rock album that’s extremely fitting for this time.

Based on the 1983 book of the same name by Walter Tevis, Netflix released its Original limited series “The Queen’s Gambit” on Oct. 23. While it may appear to be a binge-show for intellectuals, it carries themes understandable to any mature viewer.

Singer-songwriter Beabadoobee, whose real name is Beatrice Laus, released her first studio album, titled “Fake-It Flowers,” on Oct. 16.

Musician Alicia Keys released “Alicia”, on Sept. 18. The passionate new album centered around current events and personal struggles, is truthful, honest and lively with a striking hip-hop edge.

The Netflix Original Series “Teenage Bounty Hunters”, released on Aug. 14, is clever, dramatic and thrilling, defying expectations audiences may have about the characters.

Naples native Dominic Fike’s first album in two years, “What Could Possibly Go Wrong,” was worth the wait. The new album is rich with indie-pop ballads that don’t disappoint.

The new adventure movie “Artemis Fowl,” released on Disney Plus on June 12, covers the adventures of boy genius Artemis Fowl. Although visually stimulating, the film suffers from pacing issues when dealing with character development.

On April 21, Netflix released a new improv show — Middleditch & Schwartz Completely Improvised Comedy Special.

Released on March 18, Little Fires Everywhere is a Hulu Original Series about the community of Shaker Heights, Ohio in the 1990’s and the race issues within.

“Selah and the Spades” is the perfect film for those who want to diverge from mainstream movies and try a completely new style of storytelling.

A perfect fit for the current abnormality of the world due to COVID-19, The Strokes’ new album, “The New Abnormal”, mirrors the world’s current tone while offering a surreal diversion from reality.

Based on the Japanese manga of the same name, “Beastars” is a highly addictive 12-episode Netflix Original anime. But be warned, it isn’t meant for sensitive audiences.

“Doom Eternal” was released on March 20 as the sequel to the 2016 game, ‘Doom’. However, close attention should be paid to the game’s Mature rating, as ‘Doom’ is a franchise spanning back to the 90’s with violence as a central theme of each new installment.

Being stuck at home doesn’t have to mean boredom. Here are five masterful and funny TV shows to keep you company during social distancing due to COVID-19.

“All The Pretty Things” by Emily Arsenault will engross readers with a fast pace and captivating atmosphere good for binge-reading during self-isolation, but underdeveloped characters that detract from the book’s excitement will leave some readers unfulfilled.

American pop singer Selena Gomez released her new song “Feel me”, a bonus track to her album “Rare”, to all major platforms on Feb. 21.

At the start of the 2020 Oscar awards season, three movies in particular are the frontrunner films most likely to receive the best picture nomination at the 92nd Academy Awards on Feb. 9.

Journalism 1 staffer Grace Lang looks back on the best albums of the 2010’s now that 2020 has arrived.

International Grill and Bar recently opened at 1155 Mitchell Bridge Road, bringing Persian, Iranian and Turkish flavors to Athens.

While by no means perfect, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” is a thrilling, entertaining and fitting end to the Skywalker saga.

“The Toys That Made Us” is an entertaining look back into how the world got the popular toys it loves today.

“The King,” recently released on Netflix is based on a Shakespeare play is set in 1413 England and is directed by David Michôd.

“Last Christmas,” a romantic Christmas movie about self-discovery, was released in theatres on Nov. 8. This movie clearly had potential but may fall short of viewers’ expectations.

Season two of Netflix original “The End of the F***ing World” was released on Nov. 5, and it does not live up to the expectations left behind by season one.

Alternative musician Alexander O’Connor, professionally known by his stage name Rex Orange County, released his latest album, “Pony”, on Oct. 25

American rapper Post Malone released his third album, “Hollywood’s Bleeding” on Sept. 6. The album maintains Malone’s unique style of rapping but brings a different trap-pop vibe to the songs.

Directed by Gene Stupnitsky, the movie “Good Boys” hit theatres on Aug. 16. The film follows the journey of three sixth-grade boys as they navigate middle school, popularity and doing what’s right. Photo Fair Use of Universal Pictures

“IT Chapter Two”, which was released on Sept. 6, had lots of potential, but ultimately failed to live up to it’s predecessor.

Built around core values of sustainability, Eden’s Café is a newly-opened plant-based addition to Athens, Georgia at 1660 W. Broad St. The café offers a changing menu sprinkled with locally-sourced and organic ingredients.

Nick Miller, also known by his stage name ILLENIUM, released his third studio album “ASCEND” on Aug. 16.

“Last Chance U” season four, titled “INDY Part 2,” follows the Independence Community College football program throughout the 2018-19 football season.

Season three of “Glow”, released Aug. 9 on Netflix, follows the cast on its new adventure performing at a Las Vegas casino.

June is LGBTQ+ pride month, celebrate it with these four movies and shows, all available on Netflix.

Eden Bodyworks coconut shea and peppermint tea tree hair care products provide moisturizing natural hair products that can help make caring for people’s natural hair easier.

The captivating new mystery novel “Two Can Keep a Secret” by Karen McManus is a thriller that readers will not want to put down.

Alumni Cookie Dough is a cookie dough outlet located on 480 N. Thomas St. with a unique taste that brings something new to Downtown Athens.

Captain Marvel is a hero unlike any the Marvel Cinematic Universe has seen before, making for a stellar movie and the beginning of a new era of superhero storytelling inclusivity.

Rapper Kiari Kendrell Cephus, released his solo project called “Father of 4” on Feb. 22. The album has features from a variety of hip-hop artists, is masterfully produced and proves Cephus’ worth as a solo rapper.

New York Times best-selling author Angie Thomas’ book, “On The Come Up,” was released…

The ODYSSEY Media Group Variety Staff continues their journey across the Classic City in search of the best tacos Athens has to offer.

“The Fork, the Witch and the Worm,” the long-awaited addition to Christopher Paolini’s “Inheritance Cycle,” is disappointingly short and does not live up to fans’ expectations.

Sex Education, a raunchy Netflix original released Jan. 11, negotiates social issues through the eyes of high schooler Otis Milburn, the unofficial sex therapist of his peers.

The Marie Lu “Warcross” sequel, “Wildcard,” is an interesting book, but it does not quite live up to its predecessor.

Romantic sci-fi graphic novel “On a Sunbeam” was published Oct. 2 by American cartoonist Tillie Walden.

The newest addition to Nintendo’s Mario franchise, “Super Mario Odyssey”, has captured the hearts of Mario fans of all ages.

George Miller delivered his debut album “Ballads 1” under his latest persona Joji. The album was released on Oct. 26 and is filled with songs that push the boundaries of Joji’s lo-fi bedroom sound.

The Season Three premiere of The CW Television Network teen-drama “Riverdale” was aired on Oct. 10.

“The Hate U Give”, a movie directed by George Tillman Jr., premiered on Oct. 5. The movie is an accurate representation of the award-winning book by Angie Thomas.

Well known Atlanta mumble rapper Young Thug released his “On the Rvn” EP on Sept. 24 after a warrant for his arrest was been publicized two weeks earlier.

American singer-songwriter Ariana Grande released her fourth studio album, “Sweetener” on Aug. 17. The…

Maepole, a new restaurant located at 1021 N. Chase St., offers good, healthy food and a convenient dining experience.

Sophomore Naomi Hendershot shares her dislike for the new Netflix show Insatiable, finding the acting dull and the storyline too chaotic.

“Cobra Kai” strikes hard with “Karate Kid” fans looking for a nostalgic, yet fresh take on the classic franchise.

The first episode of “Silicon Valley” season five premiered on March 25. Although it reuses the familiar storylines the series is known for, the episode does not disappoint.

The book “Erebos” by Ursula Poznanski is a must-read with its mysterious plot of a manipulative and dangerous video game that tries to take over the lives of Nick Dunmore and his high school friends.

The Netflix original “Alexa and Katie”, which was released on March 23, is a slightly corny yet heartfelt series that is sure to have young people talking.

“Love, Simon” avoids making a gimmick of homosexuality and delivers a cute “coming of age” flick, despite lack-luster cinematography and inconsistent dialogue.

Last updated on Feb. 9, “Still Here” is a really fun, indie game adventure app. The game is still only out for pre-release, but the graphics and overall storyline of the game are really fun and offer an engaging experience.

Solo producer and songwriter, Angie Aparo’s new album “Life Is a Flower, Life Is a Gun” improves his repertoire as well as folk as a genre.

“I, Tonya” is the powerful story of one of America’s most legendary yet infamous athletes. No matter what the viewers may think of Tonya Harding, they will not be able to look away from the screen while watching this incredibly well-done telling of her story.

Marvel Studios’ newest film, “Black Panther”, was released on Feb. 16. The film expertly combines current political conundrums with a nearly fantastical setting and relatable characters, creating a movie that is a must-see.

News Editor Jurnee Louder and Viewpoints Writer Sam Mattern-Parkes seek out the best burger joint in Athens in this edition of Quest for Athens’ Best. idea filmed by Aneesa Conine-Nakano. Video edited by Zoe Peterson.

“Grown-ish” is a comedy showcasing what it’s like to go off to college for the first time. The show has funny characters that will keep viewers laughing throughout.

“The Post,” now playing at Beechwood Cinema and GTC University Cinemas, is a timely period drama that tells a compelling narrative speaking to the importance of journalistic integrity.

Drake’s first releases of 2018, “God’s Plan” and “Diplomatic Immunity,” leave more to be expected from the Toronto-based rapper.

“Fun Run 3” was released Nov. 30, since then the app has found huge success with its new release of Arena.

“Wonder,” released on Nov. 17 by Lionsgate, will keep viewers engaged with great acting and dialogue that lives up to the bestselling book by R. J. Palacio it was based on.

Singer-songwriter Willow Smith’s second album, The 1st, showcases her honest talent, intelligence and growth from her 2015 debut album Ardipithecus.

The Netflix-original series “American Vandal” is a brilliant high school based satire of the true-crime shows Netflix is known for. It’s like the “Degrassi” edition of “Making a Murderer”.

The ABC comedy series “The Mayor”, which aired its first episode on Oct. 3, is full of good humor and relatable characters, in spite of a somewhat weak plot.

On Sept. 12, JibJab Media Inc. released their updated version of “JibJab Camera”, allowing readers more opportunities to personalize their pictures.

Six girls see how “universal” the Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer from Rihanna’s new makeup line, Fenty Beauty, really is.

“RaiseMe”, an app released on Aug. 23, offers a wide range of scholarships to students wanting to attend college.

Three women stand in a New York City subway station, dressed in floor-length gowns. As the train rushes in, the three women grab hands and scream as it whips by. This is just one of the wonderfully unique scenes to be found on “The Bold Type”.

Despite having a decent cast, the Netflix original “Naked,” released Aug. 11, is full of untapped potential, making it feel quite lacking — almost “naked.”

Singer/songwriter R.LUM.R, released his debut extended play record “AFTERIMAGE” on Aug. 11, in which he sings with emotion and showcases his raw talent through a broad range of genres.

The movie “Dunkirk,” released July 21, explores the historical event of the Dunkirk evacuation in a manner unlike most war movies, but still delivers a powerful performance, despite it’s abnormalities.

Seven years after the release of “Persona 4,” Atlus finally released the strikingly stylish “Persona 5,” and it certainly did not disappoint.

Variety writer Emma Ramsay continues the journey across the Classic City in search for the best sushi Athens has to offer.

Rapper Kendrick Lamar returns with his fourth studio album, “DAMN.” released on April 14, showing that Lamar is blessed with the Midas Touch.

“Lake Coloring”, a virtual coloring book, is a unique game for users to express themselves, show off their artistic abilities and reduce their stress levels, but it is only good while it lasts.

Athens’ local Town and Gown Theater puts on the play “Disgraced” directed by Asia Meana running April 7-9.

Singer-songwriter Aimee Mann returns with a quiet and acoustic album that straddles the line between bitter self-reflection and regret, while still showcasing her signature wit and charm.

“The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” is the newest installment to Nintendo’s “The Legend of Zelda” series. Originally announced in 2013 and set for release in 2015, it was delayed until it eventually dropped on March 3, proving itself to be well worth the wait.

Staff writer Connor McCage breaks down the top five albums of March, 2017.

“Causality” is a clever game that challenges the player by presenting complex problems that demand specific solutions.

The tale as old as time,“Beauty and the Beast,” returned as a live-action film on March 17. Although it attempts to meet the expectations of its 1991 predecessor, it lacks the energy and quirkiness of the original.

UberEATS is a new food delivery service in Athens, but will it rise above existing delivery providers?

Netflix’s freshly debuted original series “Santa Clarita Diet” is packed full of humor, gore and a taste for human flesh.

Burning Sands is a Netflix original movie released on Jan. 24. This drama has comedy, tragedy and several important messages.

Ed Sheeran follows up his 2014 album “Multiply” with “Divide”, an album that can’t decide what it wants to be.

The print variety staff searches for the best pizza in Athens, trying slices from two pizza places close to Clarke Central High School, Hungry Howie’s Pizza and Domino’s Pizza.

“The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story,” an FX mini-series, was recently released on Netflix and keeps viewers on their toes throughout the the entire season.

Fire Emblem Heroes is a mobile game released by Intelligent Systems and Nintendo that is a spin-off of the Fire Emblem series. Addicting and generous to players, Fire Emblem Heroes is ideal for lovers of mobile games.

Pocket Points is an app available for free on the app store that allows participants to earn points for not being on their phones at school. Students can then spend their points on coupons for a variety of local and online businesses.

Print Writing Coach Ana Aldridge and staff writer Connor McCage offer two critical insights on “Split,” released on Jan. 20.

Print Photography Editor Zoe Peterson breaks down her top 10 songs of 2017 so far (in no particular order).

The print variety staff searches for the best donuts in Athens, testing treats from Ike & Janes Cafe and Bakery and Zombie Donuts and Coffee.

A film with a sci-fi premise takes an intimate twist when it focuses on the experiences of two people who find each other in the middle of a malfunction on their spaceship.

Mel Gibson, after his decade long absence, returns to the directing chair to deliver a war movie to rival Stephen Spielberg’s “Saving Private Ryan”.

2016 America’s Got Talent winner Grace VanderWaal’s first album offers much more than just insanely catchy tunes.

Although “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is a prequel to the Harry Potter franchise, the film is charming all on its own, providing dazzling visuals and excellent performances from its stars.

Disney’s latest film “Moana” is a heartfelt family movie that will keep you locked in

Nedza’s Waffles, a pop up waffle stand, was started by University of Georgia student Joe Nedza, and provides Athens community members with affordable, gourmet waffles.

Mannaweenta Ethiopian/Eritrean Restaurant is located between Quality Dry Cleaners and Orient Mart in a small strip mall on the East Side of Athens and is a great place to get authentic Ethiopian cuisine with its tasty cuisine and great service.

Tyler Perry’s “Boo! A Madea Halloween is a wacky movie with humor, crazy characters and a hilarious plot.

Lady Gaga’s latest album slows down to give audiences something genuine.

The Rose of Athens Theatre’s traveling performance of “Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart” started out strong, but took a big turn for the worse in the latter part of the plot.

“The Girl on the Train” provides more than just the typical shock factor by combining brilliant acting, shots and plot reveals, making for an outstandingly unnerving movie.

The new TV comedy “Atlanta”, which stars Donald Glover — also known as rapper Childish Gambino –, is a great blend of witty jokes and music while depicting everyday life in Atlanta.

Apple’s iOS 10, released on Sept. 13, adds some innovative features like iMessage apps and Siri app suggestions, but drops the ball with the new emojis and lock screen.

Despite its high expectations, the newly released movie “Ben-Hur” failed to deliver a comprehendible plot line and engage the audience into the story.

The DC cinematic universe experienced another misfire with “Suicide Squad”. The film’s cut footage, awful dialogue and lack of plot made the movie not worth a shot.

Down To Lunch, compatible with both Android and Apple devices, is an app initially launched in April 2015, but has recently rose to popularity since. The main purpose serves to rekindle old friendships or make new ones and to bond.

On March 7, the eighth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” began with a bang as 12 new queens vyed for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar”.

Ketchapp, known for its game 2048, has released another app that has hit the top of the Apple Apps chart. Stack, released on Feb. 17 2016, has a clear objective while still providing enough challenge for the player.

On Feb. 14, Kanye West released his new album The Life of Pablo on Tidal. News Editor Jurnee Louder is quite disappointed.

The role-playing game series Fire Emblem has gained its newest addition, Fire Emblem Fates, a game with an enriching plot and stunning cutscenes. Glaring flaws, however, harm its potential.

The new sitcom, “Fuller House”, premiered on Feb. 26 on Netflix. The sitcom is a continuation of the original series, “Full House”, which premiered in 1987.

The movie Deadpool, released Feb. 12, breaks the trend of pg-13 superhero movies and showcases the talent of actor Ryan Reynolds.

David Bowie’s new album, “Blackstar,” was released on his birthday, Jan. 8, days before his death.

The drama of high school returns to TV as the cast of Degrassi: Next Class hits the screen.

“The Revenant”, which stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy and Domhnall Gleeson, incorporates stunning visuals and powerfully acting performances from the cast.

The women’s lifestyle company A Beautiful Mess released its third photo editing app, A Color Story, on Jan. 12. The app focuses on brightening and enhancing the natural color of photos.

Hip-Hop group Run The Jewels came to Atlanta on their world tour after releasing their third studio album “Run The Jewels 3” on Jan. 21.

“The Forest,” a horror film starring Natalie Dormer, incredibly disrespects an existing Japanese suicide site for cheap jump scares.

Jennifer Lawrence gives a powerful performance in David O. Russell’s Joy, but the film’s lack of focus leaves viewers uninterested.

Comediennes Amy Poehler and Tina Fey add to their list of cult comedy TV series and movies with Sisters, their latest film, in which the duo play a set of adult sisters determined to throw one last party in their childhood home

WARNING: This may contain spoilers to books and movies in the Hunger Games series. The heavily anticipated finale to the popular movie franchise, “The Hunger Games”, leaves the viewers longing for a better conclusion to the acclaimed trilogy.

Musical.ly is a free app that allows users to lip sync to various songs, vines or parodies. It is similar to the app Dubsmash, but users can film themselves in fast and slow motion.

The print variety staff began their journey across the Classic City in search for the best Athens has to offer with stops at four Latin American restaurants.

The Walking Dead season six will return to AMC with high expectations.

Steven Spielberg’s sequel Jurassic World proves to be an improvement from the other sequels, but failed to capture the charm of the original.

iOS 9 was released from Apple on Sept. 16. The update includes new features and is more compatible with other Apple products.

On Sept. 15, social media app Snapchat updated, giving users opportunities to personalize their “snaps,” and rewarding them with “trophies.”

Peabody Award-winner, “Latino USA” radio show host, executive producer and anchor of “America by the Numbers” and journalist Maria Hinojosa visited the University of Georgia on Sept. 17 to talk about diversity in the South.

Clarke County School District has taken a big technological step, from rolling out personal laptop devices to students, to now launching an app. On this app, students can check their grades, CCSD news and even the lunch menu.

Does this app keep up with the increasingly high quality mobile games on the market or will it Fall Out?

What started as a homemade bakery in Bangkok, Thailand in 2011, has now relocated to Athens as an Asian-American fusion desserts bakery, with the motive to satisfy one’s sweet tooth.

The Chobani Flip cup gives a spin on the classic yogurt, but with around 100 more calories in each serving than the classic vanilla flavor, it lacks the healthy aspect.

On August 17, 2015, global clothing corporation Urban Outfitters opened in Athens, GA.

TIDAL, a new music streaming service, will hopefully benefit the artists and the fans while revitalizing the music industry.

Dubsmash is a free app that allows users to send videos of them lip syncing to a famous quote, popular song or sound. It can then be shared amongst friends through social media platforms such as Facebook Messenger.

Travis Porter has consistently produced the best rap dance music in the business, and does not fail to live up to that standard with their newest product, 3 Live Krew.