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‘Pokemon: Let's Go!’ is exactly what it looks like, for better and worse

by Emily Reuben As a lifelong fan of the Pokémon series, the announcement of Pokémon Let’s Go immediately filled me with a nostalgia-filled desire to re-explore the Kanto region with my Pokémon friends frolicking behind me. I was practically throwing my money at the screen in anticipation. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vV_ox1lCixk[/embed] The moment the game was available for download I loaded up my copy of Let’s Go, Eevee and began yet another adventure in Kanto. While the Kanto region has been explored to death, these games shake things up from traditional Pokémon titles with the inclusion of a Pokémon Go inspired catch system. Though the game is a bit simplistic in terms of battling and capturing Pokémon, these games are the most fun I’ve had with the Pokémon series in a long time and are the perfect placeholders for a new main entry Pokémon title on the Switch.

Input 2 S5E6: And They Don't Stop Comin'

On this week's episode we are discussing the reboot of Shrek. Is this a blessing in disguise or God's way of punishing us? Why is there a Shrek reboot and what will it bring to the table for the generation that loves the Shrek series? Join us on this week's conversation over Shrek on Input 2.

Input 2 S5E5: Scream Scares in a new Meaning

Input 2 tackles another Halloween classic with the movie Scream. Through its iconic ghost face masks and authentic characters, the series has created a unique sense of style. However, what scary origins is Scream hiding? Tune in to this week’s episode of Input 2 to find out more!

Input 2 S5E4: A Walk Down Memory Lane with Scooby-Doo

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Heartland Film Festival: ‘Weed the People’ makes an emotional, compelling case for legal cannabis

Cancer is a devastating illness that no one should have to endure, and  this is especially true regarding children. Childhood is meant to be an  innocent, fun time in a person’s life, but sadly many children are  denied a normal childhood due to the debilitating disease. Medical  advances have greatly increased the survival rate for those afflicted,  but there is still a limit to what modern medicine can do. When all else  fails, we turn to other alternative measures. 

Heartland Film Festival: ‘Dawnland’ covers an important, interesting subject, but fails to deliver

Dawnland is a documentary that tackles an important subject  that is sadly not often discussed: the forcible removal of Native  American children from their parents by the American government in an  effort to assimilate them to white American society. In an effort to  distance Native American children from their culture, they were placed  in white households, some whom were extremely racist or abusive towards  their foster children. Schools specifically tailored to teach these  Native American children punished the use of Native languages and taught  them to be ashamed of their heritage. Effectively, these children lost a  massive part of their identity and were often subject to abuse by their  foster parents. Dawnland focuses on the first official truth  and reconciliation commission (TRC) in the United States as they travel  to the various Wabanaki tribes in Maine to collect testimonies and  conduct research on the impact of the peoples’ histories. 

Input 2 S5E3 - Michael Myers Strikes Again

Input 2 continues to explore the deep roots of the Halloween film genre. More specifically, how the original Halloween movie created many of the horror tropes today. But how does the new Halloween sequel hold up to the first one? Does Michael Myers still strike fear into the hearts of viewers? Tune in to this week’s episode of Input 2 to find out more!

Heartland Film Festival: 'Weed the People' makes an emotional, compelling case for legal cannabis

by Emily Reuben Cancer is a devastating illness that no one should have to endure, and this is especially true regarding children. Childhood is meant to be an innocent, fun time in a person’s life, but sadly many children are denied a normal childhood due to the debilitating disease. Medical advances have greatly increased the survival rate for those afflicted, but there is still a limit to what modern medicine can do. When all else fails, we turn to other alternative measures. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mnzL8nL3lE[/embed] Despite indications that cannabis has anti-cancer properties, the use of cannabis in the medical field is highly controversial. In many states, doctors are largely forbidden from prescribing cannabis, preventing families from but for those in desperate situation the law literally stands between a potential cure and sure death. Weed the People follows various families with children looking to cannabis for treatment. Admittedly, the film is very depressing. Watching these children who should be outside playing with friends or watching television are stuck in bed, visibly uncomfortable, or have been given less than favorable news can be heartbreaking but also inspiring. Despite all of the hardships, the children that the film follows are all amazingly brave and determined, and Weed the People never stops showing off the courage of them and their families. I cried multiple times through the duration of the film, both due to happiness and deep sadness. In terms of emotional impact, Weed the People is incredibly moving, beautiful, and respectful to the subject’s situations. The documentary, using much appreciated expert testimony, makes the case for the legalization of cannabis. Considering how controversial medical cannabis is, I was initially concerned that Weed the People may lean toward propaganda rather than a solid, unbiased documentary. For the most part, it doesn’t, which is a huge relief. The film is certainly slanted towards promoting medical cannabis, but it is very responsible in its advocacy. Something that I thought was very interesting and useful for those considering medical cannabis is the documentary’s assertion that unregulated cannabis can be dangerous or even deadly, further emphasizing responsible, legal usage. I found myself being swept in completely by the film, a testament to just how effective it is, and I’m going to assume many other viewers will have a similar experience. Somebody could certainly watch this film and decide against medical advisory in favor of a strict cannabis treatment after seeing this glowing endorsement. The film never promotes cannabis as a sure-fire solution to cancer, but it certainly does emphasize just how incredibly effective cannabis can be. Again, the filmmakers in no way state a person shouldn’t consult a medical professional; this is just a concern that entered my mind after viewing the film. However, ultimately the responsibility is on the viewer to weigh the pros and cons, do the appropriate research and reach their own conclusion. Despite this slight concern, Weed the People is an incredibly good documentary that I think everyone should watch. The cinematography is great, the editing choices are coherent and smooth, and many audience members will likely be moved to action. Children deserve to grow up just like everyone else, and if a little plant can help make that happen then legalization is at least worth serious consideration.

Heartland Film Festival: ‘Dawnland’ covers an important, interesting subject, but fails to deliver

by Emily Reuben Dawnland is a documentary that tackles an important subject that is sadly not often discussed: the forcible removal of Native American children from their parents by the American government in an effort to assimilate them to white American society. In an effort to distance Native American children from their culture, they were placed in white households, some whom were extremely racist or abusive towards their foster children. Schools specifically tailored to teach these Native American children punished the use of Native languages and taught them to be ashamed of their heritage. Effectively, these children lost a massive part of their identity and were often subject to abuse by their foster parents. Dawnland focuses on the first official truth and reconciliation commission (TRC) in the United States as they travel to the various Wabanaki tribes in Maine to collect testimonies and conduct research on the impact of the peoples' histories. The subject is certainly anger-inducing and deserves to be fully explored, but that’s the problem with Dawnland: For such an interesting topic, the film doesn’t delve deep enough. There is very little historical context, limited interview subjects, no explanation on how the investigation impacted Native peoples, and far too much similar footage scattered throughout that doesn’t convey enough educational or new information. The film is mostly comprised of interviews with Wabanaki Native Americans in Maine who had been forcibly separated from their parents as children, but the film is structured in a way that these interviews are scattered all over the place in short bursts and the stories are not fully explored. We don’t get to really know any of the subjects and the stories are typically very short. What’s more problematic, however, is how these interviews are incorporated into the film. Dawnland would have benefitted from stringing these interviews closer together instead of randomly throughout the film. It’s hard to feel the emotional impact when there is a serious interview topic beginning, only to stop after just scratching the surface and then transitioning to a new topic unrelated to any interview. An aspect of the film I genuinely did enjoy was how the film tackled and showcased white privilege within the TRC. Dawnland shows the TRC, composed primarily of white individuals, has difficulty understanding how to respectfully engage with the Wabanaki people. The issue of white privilege is swiftly shut down and addressed within the film, which was honestly the best part for me. I appreciate Dawnland's honesty in showing that white people cannot fully understand the struggles of minorities and that being an ally means actually listening to the concerns of minorities.  While I genuinely want to like the film, I don’t think it’s a very effective documentary, which is a shame because the subject certainly deserves an in-depth look and exposure. I found myself asking, “Why do I not feel emotionally moved?” and it all comes down to film structure and a lack of engaging, educational content. Dawnland left me wanting to know more about the topic, but sadly I don’t think I’ll be returning to Dawnland for a refresher.

Horror films like 'Halloween' only come once a decade or so

When it comes to slasher films, no slasher villain is as important to the genre as Michael Myers. When John Carpenter’s Halloween first released in 1978, slasher films were not exactly new, but none featured nearly as much artistry and attention to detail. Filmed in just four weeks with a young cast, Halloween proved that budgets and A-list stars don’t have to be a death sentence for a horror film. The success of Halloween reinvigorated the slasher genre, paving the way for other notable slashers to hit the scene.

Horror films like 'Halloween' only come once a decade or so

by Emily Reuben

Input 2 S5E2 - Rocky Horror's Cousin

Welcome back to Input 2. On this week's episode, we will be discussing Repo the Genetic Opera. This timely discussion regarding what some might call a, cult classic, goes into the depths of this odd, rock-horror opera. Tune in to this week's episode of Input 2 to find out more.

Heartland Film Festival: ’93Queen’ showcases the determination of Hasidic women

When perusing the film line-up for Heartland Film Festival this year, the film that immediately caught my attention was 93Queen.  The documentary follows Rachel Freier or “Ruchie”, a Hasidic mother and  lawyer who shook up the male dominated Hasidic community by creating   Ezras Nashim, the first all-female ambulance corps in New York City. It  is rare for Hasidic communities, especially women in these communities,  to be highlighted through film, so the concept is certainly unique.  However, what specifically caught my interest was the concept of hearing  the voices of the women within this community. I wanted to hear about  their experience breaking boundaries and fighting to change their  community in the male-dominated Hasidic society. I am glad to say that 93Queen exceeded my expectations.

Heartland Film Festival: '93Queen' showcases the determination of Hasidic women

by Emily Reuben When perusing the film line-up for Heartland Film Festival this year, the film that immediately caught my attention was 93Queen. The documentary follows Rachel Freier or “Ruchie”, a Hasidic mother and lawyer who shook up the male dominated Hasidic community by creating  Ezras Nashim, the first all-female ambulance corps in New York City. It is rare for Hasidic communities, especially women in these communities, to be highlighted through film, so the concept is certainly unique. However, what specifically caught my interest was the concept of hearing the voices of the women within this community. I wanted to hear about their experience breaking boundaries and fighting to change their community in the male-dominated Hasidic society. I am glad to say that 93Queen exceeded my expectations. The film informs us immediately that Hasidic women are expected to be modest. This means that women doing work outside of mothering children or tending to familial tasks is frowned upon within the society. This expectation of modesty extends to physicality, as women do not have sexual relationships, kiss, or even touch men before marriage. The issue that arises from this is that many women are intimidated by calling for emergency services, specifically Hatzolah, the strictly male-run emergency care corps, for fear of being touched or looked at by men while in an immodest state. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3m7p1r-RDg[/embed] Ezras Nashim recognizes the need for a female-run emergency care corps for women in the Hasidic community. However, Ezras Nashim faces constant bullying and intimidation from Hatzolah and members within the community.  The film constantly reminds us that while the efforts of Ezras Nashim are noble and very much needed, stubborn adherence traditional ideals can easily stunt progress and neglect the needs of members in a community. Some of the film’s most impactful moments stem from the resistance towards Ruchie’s efforts and truly emphasize just how much adversity she and Ezras Nashim faced within their own community. The documentary does an excellent job showcasing the determination of Ruchie and Ezras Nashim while simultaneously educating the audience about the traditional roles of women within the community. Film director Paula Eiselt is a Hasidic woman herself, which works to the film’s benefit. It is clear that Eiselt understands the gravity of what the women in the film are trying to accomplish and does an excellent job of introducing outsiders to Hasidic culture by allowing the women to go about their daily lives virtually uninterrupted. We are able to follow Ruchie, the film’s primary subject, as she cooks for her family, goes to work at her law practice, prays, and as she organizes Ezras Nashim. Just from watching her do these various everyday tasks, we are allowed to see an insider's perspective of her religion and tradition in an organic, respectful manner. Even more importantly, Eiselt gives Ruchie and the other volunteers at Ezras Nashim a platform to share their views, address their struggles, and showcase their success. Something that I genuinely appreciate it the clear respect for the subjects and communities being show, but what I also find admirable is that the documentary is careful to remain honest and transparent. Ruchie is a human-being, and like every human-being she has faults. I’m glad that these faults were not shied away from, as they only serve to make her more human and relatable. The film is incredibly well-done and showcases the power and dedication of women. While Ruchie may not consider herself a feminist, she has indisputably helped to pave the way for Hasidic women and other minority women to follow their chosen careers and challenge  patriarchal society, and to me that screams feminism. 

Input 2 S5E1- The Movie That Kills

Welcome back to the new and improved Input 2. On this week's episode, we will be discussing the newly adapted Slenderman movie. How did this all start and where has it gone since the beginning? How did the movie hold up to the legend behind the Slenderman? All of this and more on this week's episode of Input 2.

Industry veteran, Ball State professor Vanessa Ament speaks about her short film ‘ Amplified: A Conversation with Women in American Film Sound’

It would be a massive understatement to say that the creation of film takes an enormous amount of work. Camera operators, editors, light departments, producers, set designers and actors all must work together in perfect harmony if they want to craft a brilliant piece of art. Neglecting even one department can result in absolute disaster. Despite the necessity of various departments and specialists, the first thing that comes to mind for many when discussing film is often the various visual components that make up a film. Editing, staging, choreography, acting, and camera-work often the most discussed aspects of a film, but visuals are hardly the only important aspect of filmmaking.

Industry veteran, Ball State professor Vanessa Ament speaks about her short film ' Amplified: A Conversation with Women in American Film Sound'

by Emily Reuben It would be a massive understatement to say that the creation of film takes an enormous amount of work. Camera operators, editors, light departments, producers, set designers and actors all must work together in perfect harmony if they want to craft a brilliant piece of art. Neglecting even one department can result in absolute disaster. Despite the necessity of various departments and specialists, the first thing that comes to mind for many when discussing film is often the various visual components that make up a film. Editing, staging, choreography, acting, and camera-work often the most discussed aspects of a film, but visuals are hardly the only important aspect of filmmaking. And similarly to how sound is usually thought of after visuals in film, women working in film live a similar experience, usually being thought of after men in the industry are recognized (if they are thought of at all). One Ball State professor and a team of students sought to change both paradigms by recognizing the work and experiences of the women in the film and television industry who bring sound to life.  Their short film, Amplified: A Conversation with Women in American Film Sound, was created through Ball State’s Virginia Ball Center for Creative Inquiry and crewed by a total of 14 Ball State students. The film celebrates the women who work in Hollywood’s sound departments. From Foley artists to sound editors, Amplified gives a platform to 30 different women working in the male dominated film industry, allowing them to tell their unique stories. After the initial premiere on December 3rd, 2017 at Muncie’s AMC Showplace 12 theater, Amplified was nominated for best documentary at the Long Beach Indie Film Festival and has been featured in various film festivals including Heartland's Indy Shorts Film Festival 2018 and the UFVA film conference. Amplified will also be screening on October 11th at the LA Femme Film Festival. The film’s director and producer, Ball State Telecommunications Edmund F. and Virginia B. Ball  Endowed Chair Vanessa Ament, has had an extensive career as a Foley artist. Over the course of her career, she has worked on popular titles such as Beauty and the Beast, The Goofy Movie, Edward Scissorhands, and Predator just to name a few. There is a lot that went into making Amplified, and we spoke to the director wanting to learn more about her thought process as she made her film as well as to learn more about her career working in film sound.

Were you honestly expecting ‘Slender Man’ to be any good? If so, why?

I guess it’s 2009 and I’m back in middle school, because Slender Man  is a thing again… kind of. Remember Marble Hornets? Yeah, they were  pretty cool. I watched each upload religiously and blabbered to my  friends about Slender Man during each lunch period because, yes, we were  the weird kids.

Were you honestly expecting ‘Slender Man’ to be any good? If so, why?

by Emily Reuben I guess it’s 2009 and I’m back in middle school, because Slender Man is a thing again… kind of. Remember Marble Hornets? Yeah, they were pretty cool. I watched each upload religiously and blabbered to my friends about Slender Man during each lunch period because, yes, we were the weird kids. What about that Slender game? It was basically Five Nights at Freddy’s in terms of popularity and spooky factor. That was always fun to make an unsuspecting, skittish friend play at night. Man, wasn’t Slender Man the coolest guys? We should totally bring that myth back. Oh, but not through witty Creepypastas or some cool online video made by actual fans. No, no, Hollywood will get it right…right? Who asked for this movie? Considering that Slender Man’s popularity has largely passed and many kids probably don’t know who he is, who was this made for? Old fans? New fans? Are the kids these days still talking about Slender Man? Were there mobs in the street demanding a new Slender Man movie? The last time I saw the myth in the mainstream was in 2014 after two 12 year old girls randomly stabbed their friend as a “sacrifice to Slender Man”.  Now, anything I see about Slender Man usually relates to that case, or the documentary made about it, Beware the Slender Man, which by the way, is a much better movie and one you should definitely watch. My point is that the time to capitalize on this faceless fiend has long since passed.