Life & Culture

The 2026 Grammy Awards remind that music provides hope

By Max Sobel, Contributing Writer • February 3, 2026

On Feb. 1, the music industry’s biggest stars flocked to the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles to celebrate the 68th Grammy Awards.

In ‘The Testament of Ann Lee,’ Seyfried is a revelation

By Riley Young, Staff Writer • February 2, 2026

Following its limited theatrical release Dec. 25, director Mona Fastvold’s epic historical drama “The Testament of Ann Lee” expanded nationwide on Jan. 23. The film follows Ann Lee (Amanda...

Q&A: Theater professor reflects on work for ‘Wicked’ Movies

By Abbi Puckett, Staff Writer • February 1, 2026

Robin Guiver, assistant professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance Performance at Ithaca College, had his work showcased in the recent two-part movie, “Wicked.” He was the lead movement artist in the films, embodying the animal characters, specifically Chistery, the flying monkey.

‘No Other Choice’ leaves audiences dying (of laughter)

By Sofia Fitzgerald, Assistant Design Editor • January 29, 2026

Sacked. Dumped. Terminated. Axed. These are not just violent euphemisms for getting fired: they are also vivid descriptions of Park Chan-wook’s latest film, “No Other Choice.” Following its limited U.S. release Dec. 25, Park’s highly anticipated dark comedy soon became an incredible success in South Korea and overseas — as well as a favorite in the awards circuit.

Comfort Food Trail brings warmth to The Commons during frosty January

By Meital Fried, Life & Culture Editor • January 29, 2026

The second annual Comfort Food Trail, which takes place from Jan. 16 to Feb. 1, aims to introduce customers to new establishments and boost business for downtown restaurants during what owners say is their slowest time of year. 

Students balance auditions while transitioning to a new semester

By Parker Anne Devine, Life & Culture Editor • January 28, 2026

The spring semester at Ithaca College promises fresh beginnings for IC students. As many students prepared for a new semester by organizing their planners or picking out their first day of class outfits, students with a passion for performing arts jumped into an audition process that would determine the rest of their semester. 

‘28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’ brings new levels of horror and humor to the franchise

By Riley Young, Staff Writer • January 27, 2026

The latest in the “28 Days Later” franchise, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” was released Jan. 16, a swift seven months after the release of the previous film, “28 Years Later.”

Zach Bryan expands his sound in new album ‘With Heaven On Top’

By Liam McDermott, Senior Writer • January 26, 2026

On Jan. 9,  Zach Bryan released his sixth studio album titled “With Heaven On Top.” The album keeps up with the same country-folk vibe heard on his past five albums while simultaneously testing out some new sounds, including newer instruments. 

IC students take advantage of snow day

By Parker Anne Devine, Life & Culture Editor • January 26, 2026

On Jan. 24, Ithaca College students were notified via the IC Alert System that the college would be in remote operating status from noon Jan. 25 until 11 p.m. on Jan. 26. The alert also stated that classes on Jan. 26 would not be held in person, giving students a “snow day.” As students gear up for a cold week, evidence of students enjoying the outdoors has popped up all across campus.

Feig holds the audience hostage with ‘The Housemaid’

By Parker Anne Devine, Life & Culture Editor • January 22, 2026

On Dec. 19, the film adaptation of Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel “The Housemaid” was released in theaters. While the story is a satisfying piece of entertainment for those who crave gimmicky thriller novels, the adaptation fails to impress on the big screen. 

Small orientation creates big impact at IC

By Meital Fried, Life & Culture Editor • January 22, 2026

At the end of Ithaca College’s spring orientation, sophomore orientation leader (OL) Xavier Newby gave students the opportunity to throw things at him. Students in his group pelted him with anonymous questions about college life — from classes to club sports — written on crumpled pieces of paper.

Anticipated finale flips show’s reputation upside down

By Abbi Puckett, Staff Writer • January 22, 2026

Season five of the hit Netflix show, “Stranger Things,” concluded Dec. 31, and it seemed to be a letdown to viewers.