Meg Ryan’s Review: Ariana Grande featuring Iggy Azalea- “Problem”
Grade: A

If there’s ever been a time to move on from that bad boy in your life, it’s now with Ariana Grande’s new single, “Problem.” The new record includes a verse by Iggy Azalea and a quick appearance by Big Sean in every chorus. The song is typical Grande with her big voice that hits an array of notes perfectly with a mix of pop and R&B. The single’s heavy horn influence as well brings in more of the R&B influence. Grande sings about a guy in her life who’s bad for her, but she can’t seem to let go. However, she has “one less problem” without him. Azalea’s verse strengthens this statement with her independent lyrics and powerhouse voice. Grande’s new single is perfect for the upcoming summer to blast in your car, on vacation or out at a party and forget all about the problems in your life. This single will be on repeat for an extended amount of time.
Joshua Jackson’s Review: “Brick Mansions”
Grade: F

The late Paul Walker’s final completed film, “Brick Mansions” leaves a sour taste in the mouths of film fans. Plagued by terribly written jokes and even worse editing, the American remake of French film “District 13” is less entertaining than its predecessor. As a movie based around saving a man’s girlfriend and protecting the city, the plot of “Brick Mansions” has been seen before, but the delivery is the real problem. The term “action” is used loosely in this motion picture as the physically demanding scenes are poorly coordinated. The cast, while likeable on paper, fail to show any semblance of working together on screen. Fans of Paul Walker’s work in “The Fast and The Furious” films should avoid this movie at all costs. People will want to like this movie because it is one of Walker’s last, but the best isn’t always saved for the end.
Gerald Ducote’s Review: Damon Albarn – “Everyday Robots”
Grade: B+

Damon Albarn is a busy man. Since the 1990s, he’s been neck deep in British pop music, creating influential albums with his band Blur, which is known for the seminal alternative single “Song 2.” After ending Blur, Albarn went on to writing and drawing for Gorillaz, his highly successful virtual band. Now, the longtime producer has stepped up to the mixing board to make a record for his fans and for himself. “Everyday Robots” serves as a portfolio containing Albarn’s more than 20 years of experience in listening to, writing and recording music. The album spans a wide range of genres, shifting from brooding beats like that of fellow musician James Blake to jangly new-wave Dylanesque ditties. If left on repeat, this album could fill hours of relaxing contemplation, mirroring Albarn’s demeanor as a musician. “Everyday Robots” is his long-awaited chance to just sit down and enjoy his work.
Will Kallenborn’s Review: “Blue Ruin”
Rank: B+

One of the darlings of this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Jeremy Saulnier’s “Blue Ruin” is a heartrending tale of family and loss. The film tells the story of a lonely beach bum who goes on a quest to avenge his family. The story is brutally honest, and the main character, played impeccably by Macon Blair, is eminently relatable. The clumsy manner by which he goes about committing heinous deeds makes one wonder how far one would go to protect their family. For a film clearly done with a small budget, it feels sincere in a way that many other films made recently cannot seem to replicate. There are a few times where the acting falls flat, but otherwise this, is an unusually good film from an unexpected place.
Jeremy Marshall’s Review: Batman: Eternal Issue 4 Rank
Rank: B-
There’s trouble brewing within Gotham City in the fourth issue of DC’s year-long series run of “Batman: Eternal.” Carmine Falcone has returned to his city and is ready to start war with The Penguin. Commissioner Gordon is behind bars for causing the accidental death of 150 subway passengers while his daughter Barbara, also known as Bat Girl, races to prove his innocence. And there in the middle of it all is Batman. The storyline is settling in after an explosive opening issue, which is the only problem with a 52-part story. It takes 52 weeks to get the pay off. The book was well written, but promises of excitement are overshadowed by slow pacing. I have faith going forward because the story promises major ramifications for The Dark Knight; I just hope those ramifications show up soon.