Episode one of “The Last of Us” Season Two premiered April 13, 2025. This season will follow the plot line of the game “The Last of Us Part II.” It will be mostly about the characters Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey, and Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever. These two characters will face parallel journeys throughout the storyline. 

For a season premiere, episode one titled “Future Days,” did a great job. It set up character arcs, new antagonists, new threats and budding relationships. As a show viewer only, it kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. When the titles began rolling, I couldn’t help but ask “that’s it” as I was already ready for the next episode. This is not to say that the episode was uneventful, it was jam packed with exciting moments. The story was so well done I was desperate for more. 

One of the main plotlines of this episode centers on Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, and his strained relationship with his daughter figure, Ellie. The tension is high between the two. Season One left off with Joel telling Ellie a lie, a monumental one at that. Joel struggles to understand why Ellie won’t talk to him, often citing it as being just something that happens between a daughter and her father when a girl turns 19. However, the subtext is clear, Joel knows exactly why Ellie will not talk to him, his lie has forced a barrier between them. He carries this guilt with him, he lies to his therapist about it, he lies to Ellie’s best friend about it and worst of all, he lies to himself about it. 

Of course, it is not just the lie though, Joel is right, Ellie clearly seeks some level of independence from her adoptive father. She chooses to live in his garage and make the space her own, rather than take up residence in his house. She has an obvious desire to do her “own thing.” It is apparent that Ellie is no longer the 14 year old girl we left her as in Season One. Ellie is an impatient, head-strong and independent 19 year old. She believes she is ready to take on the world and all the infected that come with it. Her behavior, as of the first episode, has already gotten her into trouble. 

However, her boldness in the face of danger does not stop her from being shy when it comes to romantic feelings. Her blossoming relationship with her best friend Dina, played by Isabela Merced, is a relatable tale of young love. Ellie and Dina’s dynamic is one of the best parts of the episode. They have a perfect balance of the awkward moments that come with love and out of this world chemistry. Their banter and Dina’s blatant flirting with Ellie make you excited to see how their relationship will develop. They also share a dance and kiss at a New Year’s Eve party, Dina clearly much more confident compared to Ellie. Their cute moment is interrupted by a homophobic resident of their settlement, though he does not get away with this as Joel takes defending his daughter and her friend on himself, knocking the man out. This moment perfectly ties Ellie’s two character arcs together, her desire for independence from Joel and her budding relationship with Dina. 

While that particular resident of Jackson, Wyoming was annoying, that does not mean all are. We of course get to see Tommy, played by Gabriel Luna, and Maria, played by Rutina Wesley, again, this time with their son. New characters notably include Jesse, Dina’s on and off boyfriend who is portrayed by Young Mazino, and Gail, Joel’s therapist, who is portrayed by Catherine O’Hara. These new and recurring characters make the Jackson commune and the show itself feel more real and provide ample entertainment. 

Settlers of Jackson are not the only new characters of course, we were also introduced to new Firefly characters, notably Abby. Her desire to kill Joel is palpable and nerve-wracking. We see her last on a mountain, looking at the Jackson settlement, fire in her eyes. Her passion for vengeance and Joel’s unresolved conflict with Ellie leaves the audience nervous. 

Overall, the first episode of the second season of “The Last of Us,” is great. Each actor does an amazing job portraying their characters. The storyline is already intriguing and tense. It is clear this episode was made with passion. I am hopeful and confident that the rest of the season will be just as great. 

Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBO

Ticket sales in the US dropped a shocking 80% in 2020. With the closure of all non-essential businesses, movie theaters were probably the ones hit the hardest. Streaming and home entertainment were already making a name for themselves, but after the shutdown, streaming boomed. Are movie theaters going out of style? Do people prefer streaming due to its price and convenience, and how are movie theaters addressing this? 

“The fact is that there is so much more out there that’s readily available,” said Marcus Mallard, professor of Film Studies and Digital Media. “It’s a couple of keystrokes on the keyboard and a mouse click away and you can get it.” 

Convenience and price are the real killers for movie theaters. Movie budgets are swelling, as well as ticket fees to match and snack prices are always egregious. More people just tend to stay home and save that money. In the past, it would take months after a movie came out before it was released on DVD or Blu-ray, but now it seems like it comes to streaming only a week or two after its run at the box office. Why go see something in a cinema when you can watch it on Netflix a month later? 

I personally will only go to a movie that I know would be better in the theater. I prefer going and seeing a movie in the theater, but if I’m going to pay a lot for a movie ($10-15 for a ticket). I would like it to be good. Big movie studios seem to be losing the trust of the common consumer. The current Marvel movie box office pales in comparison to their pre-2020 counterparts. Indie film studios, like A24, are getting more traction with young people versus the big studios. 

“Honestly, I prefer a movie theater because it forces me to remove other distractions and then I can focus on just the movie screen,” Mallard said. “I watch them at home because of convenience and because it’s less expensive, but I will always cherish the movie theater experience more so than the home … that is where movies were made to be seen.” 

Cinemas are not going to go completely away. Within the past few years or so, we have seen massive events happen at theaters. The Barbenheimer phenomenon was great for the movie industry. One of Oppenheimer’s big draws was that it was shot on 70mm IMAX. Most movies are shot on digital cameras nowadays, but Oppenheimer is an outlier. 70mm is 4.5x the resolution of 35mm (4k compared to 18k. Those aren’t definite; film resolution can vary depending on the film stock used and shooting conditions). To see Oppenheimer in IMAX would be an experience you can’t get anywhere else. Having experiences you can’t get anywhere else is essential for the industry to survive. 

I saw Twisters in 4DX at the Warren Theater in Moore. It felt like watching Godzilla in Tokyo. In 4DX, your chairs are rigged to shake and move somewhat like a rollercoaster. The opening scene was like a shock to the senses. When the tornado calmed down, a guy in the back of the theater cried out, “Finally!” The whole theater burst out laughing. That is an experience I won’t forget. 

We are currently seeing a huge event now, with the success of the Minecraft movie. The movie is being heavily influenced by the internet through memes and wild audience reactions. If you wait and watch it at home, you might think, “What’s all this hype about? That was an average movie.” It’s about seeing it and experiencing it with the crowd and friends. The internet turned an average movie into a great one. 

The local mom-and-pop theaters are having a harder time combating the lower ticket sales, causing several to close down. Rodeo Cinema in Stockyards City turned to doing some shows that are uniquely centered on the Oklahoman community. They have recently done some jazz shows as well as live Irish dancing. Rodeo can’t afford the high-tech sound or 4DX experience, so they go with something a little more personal. 

“You know, also, smaller theaters may not get the bigger films that need the high-quality sound because it just costs too much to bring them in because they’re paying distribution fees to be able to show those films on those screens … It’s costing a lot to get a big-name picture in there, and if you are spending that type of money, it’s hard to justify it.” Mallard noted. 

Rodeo Cinema has partnered with Rose State’s film program. Rose State students will present their capstones at Rodeo Cinema. The entry fee will be $10, but that goes to help pay for the cinema as well as helping future students with their capstones. 

“They have opened their doors to bring in these other types of shows and other types of events and host Q&As and bring in filmmakers,” Mallard said. “Rodeo is really trying to make sure that they’re known.” 

I don’t think movie theaters are going out the door just yet, but I think they’re just in a trough right now and they’re getting back on their feet. With the big cineplexes pushing for the best experience ever and the smaller ones trying to help their community by making a lasting difference, going to the movies is always a special experience.

The term “older” is subjective but the criteria followed for this list was that the albums came out more than 40 years ago. These albums are of different genres, but they all have something that makes them stand out and capture listeners’ attention. 

Black Sabbath, by Black Sabbath.

“Black Sabbath” was released Feb. 13, 1970. This was the band’s debut album. Its heavy and melancholic sound would inspire many metal artists to come, with some regarding it as the first heavy metal album. Gregory Sadler of Medium.com writes, “I’d even go as far as to say that without Sabbath, metal might have coalesced rather differently.” Songs from the album discuss various topics, all featuring amazing instrumentals and Ozzy Osbourne’s unique voice to deliver the message. One song titled “The Wizard” is about Gandalf, a character created by J.R.R. Tolkien. Not all songs are about fiction though, “Wicked World” discusses and brings attention to many different injustices in the world. Overall, this is a great album to start your metal journey with.

Walkin’ My Cat Named Dog, by Norma Tanega.

“Walkin’ My Cat Named Dog” was released on April 12, 1966. It is a beautiful folk album with pretty instrumentals and great singing. Fans of “What We Do in the Shadows” may recognize the song “You’re Dead,” which is from this album. The album has both upbeat and quick songs and slow and soft melodies. A personal favorite song of mine is “No Stranger Am I,” which is a soft song that appears to be about a relationship that brings the singer joy and fulfillment. This album is a must listen to for fans of early folk music.

Bad Girls, by Donna Summer.

“Bad Girls” was released April 25, 1979. This album shows why Donna Summer is often called “the queen of disco.” Summer brings great energy to every song. The album starts out fun and funky, then develops into slower and softer ballads before finishing with exciting, upbeat songs. This album is mostly about two things, parties and love. This aligns with the disco genre. When Summer tragically passed, singer Beyoncé wrote “Donna Summer made music that moved me both emotionally and physically to get up and dance.” This quote perfectly describes the album “Bad Girls.”

Surrealistic Pillow, by Jefferson Airplane.

“Surrealistic Pillow” was released Feb. 1, 1967. Surrealistic is a great way to describe the album, as most of the songs have a trippy and psychedelic feel to them. The song “White Rabbit” takes inspiration from Lewis Carol’s novel “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” This song was also featured in the television shows “Stranger Things” and “Supernatural.” “Surrealistic Pillow” is a great representation of psychedelic rock and late 1960s music. 

Bookends, by Simon & Garfunkel.

“Bookends” was released on April 3, 1968. This album contains the song “Mrs. Robinson,” which was in the soundtrack for the film “The Graduate.” The album depicts the stages of life through its songs. The lyrics encapsulate the innocence of youth all the way to the more hardened feelings of an adult. The folk music and unique lyricism make this album worth listening to.

Life & Times, by Jim Croce.

“Life & Times” was released July 1, 1973. This album, like his others, shows Croce’s great lyricism. The album also has a variety of songs for different moods, with some upbeat and fun, while others take a more somber tone. Croce has an uncanny ability to depict every mood, and each song is powerful enough to make you feel what emotion he is feeling. One song, “A Good Time Man Like Me Ain’t Got No Business (Singin’ the Blues),” perfectly depicts the happier side of moving on from a bad relationship. For fans of folk and rock, this album is a must-listen. 

Photo by Michelle Johnson

“Being a woman in a very male-dominated field especially once you get into like upper levels like area director and such you see this shift in the contrast between how you're treated. You also see there is not much diversity in those fields and you constantly feel like you have to work 10 times harder than everyone else to break into that field and especially not being a Republican puts you on the outside of things because you don't always align with the old white man's views.” -Heather Walsh

A century ago, Congress passed a law to ratify the 19th Amendment on June 4, 1919. The amendment was then ratified on August 18, 1920, to grant women the right to vote. Sixty-three years later, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 “prohibited discrimination and employment based on race, religion, color, or national origin; it also prohibits discrimination based on gender.” 

Sixty-two years later, the Equal Pay Act of 1963 “Made it illegal to pay a woman less than a man for doing the same job. The Department of Labor was given the power to enforce the law.” Fifty-two years later, on Jan. 22, 1973, the Supreme Court ruled in Roe v. Wade, this decision legalized abortions nationwide and established a constitutional right to abortion. Some famous feminists during that time were Betty Friedan, Gloria Steinman and Angelina Davis. 

As we transition out of Women's History Month, let's reflect and think about some of the great women in our lives and some of the famous feminists who have made it possible for all of us to be able to get a career and an education. Let's use this opportunity to remind us that we will not be regressing to the ‘60s where we had only a few rights, but give us the courage to fight like these great women did back then. 

“In June of 2022 the US Supreme Court abandoned its duty to protect the fundamental rights and overturned Roe versus Wade ruling there is no federal constitutional right to abortion,” - Center of Reproductive Rights. 

In 2025, we held our second election with a woman of color running, and she lost to a rich white male. It sets the tone for us as a nation across the board and after listening to various classmates and various other generations of women most of them are scared. Most of them are sad that we have regressed this badly and we are going back in time instead of forward. One hundred and five years ago we earned our right to vote and now in 2025 we are still fighting the same things they were fighting all those years ago. 

Heather Walsh said, “Being a woman in a very male-dominated field especially once you get into like upper levels like area director and such you see this shift in the contrast between how you're treated. You also see there is not much diversity in those fields and you constantly feel like you have to work 10 times harder than everyone else to break into that field and especially not being a Republican puts you on the outside of things because you don't always align with the old white man's views.” 

Individuals from current generations have views that tend to align. Their issues are current and happening now. Previous generations fought for different causes and have made progress they are content with. They didn't fight the same way as we do now. Alas, here we are still standing 105 years later, fighting the same things our great-great grandparents fought. This isn't just about keeping the standards set in place from the past its also about the future. Continuing to create a better place for future generations. 

When it comes to women's rights it effects human rights in general. The decisions of our rights usually fall into the hands of the rich and the powerful. 

At the core of this debate lies a simple truth: women's rights are human rights. The fight for gender equality isn't about granting special privileges—it’s about recognizing the inherent dignity, freedom, and opportunity every person deserves. When we champion women's rights, we uplift humanity. 

So, the question isn't whether we should call it women's rights or human rights—because they are the same.

Photo from Rose State Media Group's Archives

These movies all have some connection to spring and, most importantly, are entertaining. They are a great watch for a calm spring afternoon. 

1. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986) This movie follows three high school seniors as they cut class to explore Chicago. This classic 1980s movie has many shots that perfectly reflect a sunny spring day. The carefree attitude of the titular main character also brings the familiar feeling of spring. I love the journey of every character and how they change throughout the movie. The “senioritis” experienced by the characters is also relatable to many in their last year of school, especially during the spring. 

2. “Abominable” (2019) This movie is recommended by Theatre major Ariel Nutt. “It’s basically about this girl; she finds a [Yeti] ... that got taken from his home. Then ended up in the town where the main character is. And she finds him on her rooftop,” Nutt said. The movie follows the main character and friends as they try to help the Yeti return home. “And there’s one scene that just reminded me of it … they’re at this temple/ statue … She’s playing her violin and it’s magical. She basically makes flowers as she’s playing with her emotions. It’s really good,” she said. 

3. “Scooby Doo” (2002) This movie follows the classic Scooby Doo gang as they reunite to help solve a mystery. While the creepy visuals may remind one of Halloween, the movie takes place in May and the main location, Spooky Island, is said to be a popular spring break spot for college kids. This movie is a great watch for spring break as the beach and tropical imagery of the movie are perfect. The bright sunny vibes also perfectly offset the spooky mystery at play. The humor is a good balance of the typical humor present in “Scooby Doo” media and the more mature themes the movie was trying to achieve. I particularly enjoy Matthew Lillard’s performance as Shaggy. 

4. “Bee Movie” (2007) This movie is recommended by movie enthusiast Evan Retherford. “When I think of spring, I think of all the flowers blooming and the bugs flying and what is more spring inspired than a bee pollinating plants and flowers,” Retherford said. Bee Movie follows the main character Barry B. Benson, voiced by Jerry Seinfeld, as he realizes that bees are being exploited by humans for honey. “I recommend it because it shows an interesting perspective from the bees that keep our ecosystem going,” Retherford added. 

5. “10 Things I Hate About You” (1999) 10 Things I Hate About You is about Kat Stratford, played by Julia Stiles and her sister Bianca, who is played by Larisa Oleynik. It is an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” that is set in a high school in the 1990s. It takes place in spring as we see them go to prom. The colorful outfits and sunny Seattle skyline also contribute to the spring vibes of this movie. “10 Things I Hate About You” is a must watch for 90s nostalgia fans or anyone who enjoys the “enemies to lovers” trope.

Photo by Michelle Johnson