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Joel Pesantez

Rutgers Dining Halls pivot to serving exclusively halal fresh chicken

Step into any of the four dining halls across Rutgers' campuses, and you'll encounter a distinctly different experience each time. 4 hours ago

Insider Beat: Allegra Krieger is hiding in plain sight on 'Art of the Unseen Infinity Machine'

There's a distinct energy that fuels Allegra Krieger's "Art of the Unseen Infinity Machine" — a swirling, 13-track exploration of philosophical dilemmas, with life and death functioning at its core. In just more than 30 minutes, the album thoughtfully examines heady themes without ever becoming bogged down by them. 3 days ago

Insider Beat: Sammy Rae finds strength in numbers on 'Something for Everybody'

For most aspiring musicians, the ultimate goal is something along the lines of flashing cameras, their name in lights on oversized marquees and a stage all to themselves. Of course, the craft is important, but there are distractions coming from every angle that can easily derail a rising star.Nov 11

College Avenue Players give Rutgers final Halloween treat with 'Hot Ghoul Halloween'

This past weekend, the College Avenue campus was plunged into chaos. No, it wasn't the ghosts of Brower Commons haunting unsuspecting passersby. No, it wasn't the usual crime alert you wake up to in the middle of the night in a pool of sweat. It wasn't even the annual dread that comes with the end of daylight saving time and the grim realization that it'll consistently be dark by 5 p.m. until spring.Nov 6

Knights, Camera, Action: Comedian Mike Sweeney gets last laugh with another Emmy win

There's a lot of factors that go into telling a good joke and for Rutgers alum Mike Sweeney, it's been quite the journey finding his voice. From performing stand-up in the heart of New York City to writing jokes for TV, he made sure to get his reps in and wait for the right moment. After all, comedy is all about timing. Nov 4

Rutgers Dance Marathon tucks competition to bed in 16th annual Homecoming bed races

This past weekend marked Homecoming and Family Weekend for the Rutgers student body and alumni, which meant tailgating, catching up with friends across campus and, of course, wheeled beds barreling down Sicard Street.Oct 23

Not all heroes wear capes: Demarest Hall comes to rescue with 'Demcon'

For superhero devotees, anime enthusiasts or anyone who loosely considers themselves as a pop culture geek, New York Comic Con (NYCC) has become a sanctuary to let loose. But, behind the social media snapshots and anecdotes of brushing shoulders with Marvel royalty lies the reality of expensive tickets, limited food options and, worst of all, excruciatingly long lines.Oct 23

Insider Beat: Jordana dances with destiny on new album, 'Lively Premonition'

It's been a little more than three years since Jordana Nye, known simply by her first name, teamed up with the band TV Girl to deliver "Summer's Over," a modern indie classic that explores the many sobering realizations of young adult life. Summer flings, unpaid train fares, dwindling parties — at some point, you have to leave it all behind and face the music. Oct 20

School of Communication & Information students ready for spotlight with '#BeCOMM Talk Show'

At some point or another in their collegiate career, every Rutgers student has to answer one dreaded, existential question: What's your major?Oct 16

State Theatre New Jersey's 'TINA—The Tina Turner Musical' is mostly 'The Best'

One of the greatest allures of Broadway is its ability to sweep up audiences in a spellbinding odyssey. Whether it's a distant land where witches and monkeys defy gravity in "Wicked," or a power struggle in the heart of the jungle in "The Lion King," once the lights begin to dim and the curtains are raised, everything becomes secondary. Anything that's ever mattered is on that stage.Oct 13

College Avenue Players' 'Get Off My Lawn' is grand old time

For anyone looking to escape the gloomy weather or the rowdy crowds of Rutgers football fans this past weekend, Scott Hall on the College Avenue campus provided a perfect refuge, especially for theatergoers. Here, the College Avenue Players (CAP) kicked off their fall season with a bang, presenting three performances of "Comic Relief XXXVI: Get Off My Lawn" across Friday and Saturday. Sep 29

Staff Showcase: Bart Feller on celebrating 30 harmonious years at Rutgers

Rutgers—New Brunswick is a beautiful place, not just due to its gorgeous scenery but also due to its people. While many associate their positive experiences at the University with their roommates and friends, it's important to recognize the instructors who steer academic journeys, ease the transition into the professional world and cater to the diverse needs of countless students.Sep 29

Insider Beat: Catching up with @rutgers.missedconnections

Stepping onto the Rutgers—New Brunswick campus for the first time, there's a palpable energy in the air, fueled by the buzz of diverse, ambitious young adults and the promise of new opportunities.Sep 25

Game, set, watch: 'Challengers' deserves every bit of love

In case you missed out on the best movie of 2024, also known as "Challengers," while it was in theaters, you're in luck — the viral hit landed on Amazon Prime on Thursday. While some may have been apprehensive about buying a ticket to see the "erotic tennis movie," now, from the comfort of your own home and free of any judgment, there's no reason not to check out this modern sports masterpiece.Sep 22

Zimmerli's 'Smoke & Mirrors' exhibit is stroke of genius

For any students looking to pick up a new pastime, exploring a museum can be a truly gratifying and soothing adventure. Strolling through halls filled with diverse artwork, conjuring up meanings and discovering unique aspects of different cultures makes for a refreshing break between classes.Sep 19

Insider Beat: Anna Shoemaker blazes new trails with sophomore record

It can be difficult to learn how to strum a guitar or memorize piano keys, but for most singer-songwriters, the skill that takes the most time to perfect is authenticity — the keyword here being "most." For musician Anna Shoemaker, this was never an issue. Sep 15

Curating 'DAMN.' good Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Halftime Show set list

After a relatively quiet beginning to 2024, Kendrick Lamar fans have been eating. The 17-time Grammy winner kicked off his summer with a verse on the chart-topping Future song, "Like That," continuing the momentum with three tracks of his own, "euphoria," "meet the grahams" and "Not Like Us." Now, hot on the trails of a very public feud with Drake, the artist announced his victory lap on Sunday: performing at the 2025 Super Bowl LIX halftime show.Sep 12

Insider Beat: Joe P on embracing his roots with 'Garden State Vampire'

Joe Parella, a musician who performs under the stage name Joe P, proudly wears his New Jersey heritage like a badge of honor. While others may criticize or harbor their own perceptions of the state, Parella embraces it, flaws and all. Hailing from Sparta, his adoration for his home shines through in his craft, especially in his latest project, "Garden State Vampire."Sep 5

New Jersey Film Festival rolls out red carpet for independent filmmakers

New Brunswick hosts an incredibly diverse and passionate community of filmmakers, reflected in the continued success of the bi-annual New Jersey Film Festival, held every fall and winter. As the festival prepares for its 43rd edition, commencing this Friday and running on select weekends through October 18, it offers first-year students and curious residents an up-close, personal look into the competitive world of filmmaking.Sep 5

Insider Beat: Ok Cowgirl riding high with debut album, 'Couldn't Save Us From My Gut'

To those who've never picked up an instrument, the life of a musician might seem effortless — through the lens of social media, it's a whirlwind of high-end club parties, world tours and devoted fans, all wrapped in constant thrills and excitement. Aug 18

M. Night Shyamalan stuck in rut with latest film, 'Trap'

Regardless of what audiences think of M. Night Shyamalan, one thing is certain — his movies always evoke strong reactions. Whether it's the unsettling "The Sixth Sense," the adrenaline-inducing "Split" or even the deeply frustrating "The Last Airbender," the director always takes risks that transform his projects into engrossing spectacles. This is partly due to his distinct use of twist endings, guaranteed to keep theater-goers on the edge of their seats.Aug 4

'Twisters' weathers clichés, delivers fun blockbuster

It's no secret that movie theaters have struggled in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Theater chains worldwide are shutting down as movie studios prioritize streaming content and sequels dominate theater marquees — the traditional moviegoing experience has all but vanished. Jul 21

Knights, Camera, Action: Anthpo's viral revival

In the age of social media, where influencers are constantly searching for innovative ways to get clicks, creators like Anthony "Anthpo" Potero immediately stand out. Instead of relying on algorithms or increasingly dubious clickbait, the Rutgers alum cultivated a devoted audience by adopting a straightforward strategy — he makes the videos he wants to.Jun 23

New Jersey International Film Festival returns to spotlight

As the weather begins to heat up, many New Jersey residents and Rutgers students are left looking for inventive ways to stay cool. For anyone tired of the usual beach trips or pool parties, the New Jersey International Film Festival is back with another collection of feature-length films and shorts to keep you refreshed.Jun 2

College Avenue Players work their magic with 'Wacky Hijinks'

Last weekend, the College Avenue Players (CAP) transported Rutgers—New Brunswick to the Middle Ages with its annual sketch comedy show "Wacky Hijinks," this year's rendition themed to medieval times and fantasy.Apr 26

Insider Beat: d4vd on leveling up with 'Beats on the Banks'

Like many teenagers, David Burke, known by his stage name d4vd, spends hours playing video games like "Fortnite" and losing himself in internet rabbit holes. The only difference between him and his peers is that he's managed to turn it into a line of work. Apr 24

Knights, Camera, Action: Jessica Darrow

Before Jessica Darrow was starring in Disney productions like "Encanto" and captivating audiences with catchy tunes, she was just another Rutgers student, trying to figure out where she belonged. The Miami-based singer and actress took some time to acclimate to a whole new world in New Brunswick.Apr 18

Garden State Film Festival offers close-up of New Jersey filmmakers

Last week, the Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) began its four-day festival run. Amid theaters shutting down across the state, the event looks to keep the tradition of moviegoing alive — this year marks its 22nd rendition. Mar 28

Insider Beat: Rutgers alum Laurie Berkner on finding inspiration from Brower Commons

When Laurie Berkner was deciding where to go to college, she wasn't completely sure of what she wanted to do. One option she mulled over was going to med school and becoming a biochemistry major. Unfortunately, the decision was partly out of her hands — she was paying for a majority of her tuition and needed something affordable.Mar 22

Insider Beat: Kathy Griffin talks to Daily Targum about 'crazy sh*t' in New Jersey, opens up about tour

For the first time in six years, comedian Kathy Griffin is returning to the stage, embarking on her new standup tour, "My Life on the PTSD-List." Mar 7

Dubs versus snubs: Recapping 2024 Oscars nominations

Now that a week has passed and the dust has settled on this year's Academy Award nominations, we can finally examine the nominated films without our spur-of-the-moment emotions getting in the way. So, as much as we all loved "Bottoms," we can all admit it never really stood a chance.Feb 1

NJ Film Festival 2024: Reel deal, breaking down films shown in Week 1

This past weekend, the 42nd Bi-Annual New Jersey Film Festival kicked off with its first lineup of films. Jan 31

New Jersey Film Festival returns to Rutgers with vibrant lineup

It's tough being a movie fan in January and February — most major studios save their blockbusters for later in the year, leaving the market feeling pretty dry. Luckily, the Rutgers Film Co-op/New Jersey Media Arts Center and the Rutgers' Department of Cinema Studies are here to the rescue!Jan 26

Winter Break 2023: Tired of 'Home Alone'? Make room for these new seasonal classics

If you were to go around Rutgers, asking students what their favorite holiday movies were, there are a few common answers you'd get.Dec 14

Netflix subverts typical true crime with 'May December'

In the ever-evolving media landscape, there is one genre that consistently manages to captivate: true crime. Strangely, the thrill of being a spectator to some of the darkest corners of humanity has intrigued so many people.Dec 12

'Squid Game: The Challenge' negates original show's message, proves no real fun

In recent years, Netflix has made several questionable decisions — whether it's canceling a beloved show, limiting password sharing or raising their subscription prices, the platform can't seem to get anything right.Dec 7

'Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes' offers tiring runtime full of mischaracterization

Throughout the majority of the 2010s, it was almost impossible to avoid the "Hunger Games" franchise, whether it be through the books or the movies.Dec 5

'Priscilla' reinvents traditional Elvis narrative, shines light on trappings of fame

Despite its popularity and widespread acclaim, the film’s high-energy editing and over-the-top acting amounted to a superficial biopic that merely summarized Elvis Presley’s life and failed to add any depth or nuance to the superstar. Nov 21 2023

Scorsese revamps his own style in 'Killers of the Flower Moon'

If you had to guess any movie enthusiast's favorite movie director, it would be a safe bet to assume they would praise Martin Scorsese.Nov 10 2023

This Halloween, rank Jordan Peele movies with 'Us' or 'Get Out'!

For most of his career, Jordan Peele had made a name for himself in the world of comedy, writing and starring in offbeat sketch comedy shows like "Key & Peele."Oct 24 2023

From 'Wolf of Wall Street' to 'Dumb Money': Are finance bro movies worth investing in anymore?

The 2010s witnessed a growing trend in finance and Wall Street-focused films, notably with the commercial and critical successes of "The Wolf of Wall Street" in 2013 and "The Big Short" in 2015. But the most recent addition to this genre, 2023's "Dumb Money," fails to achieve the same level of recognition.Oct 22 2023

Mitski explores new frontier in 'The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We'

As the summer fades away, our favorite indie singer-songwriter Mitski is back, just in time with another collection of heartfelt, melancholic ballads to add to your fall playlist. Her seventh studio album, "The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We," comes on the heels of a busy couple of years for the artist. Sep 26 2023

Despite plot flaws, 'Mutant Mayhem' has major 'Turtle Power'

Following a string of lackluster and forgettable live-action films, our favorite reptiles are back with something to prove in "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem." Under the guidance of a brand-new team of writers and animators, this reboot is a breath of fresh air for the iconic franchise, leading to arguably its finest outing yet.Sep 25 2023

Family feud: Predicting which ‘Succession’ character will come out on top

If you're looking for a show with high-stakes drama, look no further than "Succession." One of the most acclaimed shows in recent years, the HBO Max hit has captivated audiences with its clever writing, unforgettable characters and mind-blowing twists.May 1 2023