In a unique clash between festive spirit and city codes, Cherise Pfeifer of Wausau, Wisconsin, has been compelled to dismantle her controversial Trump-Biden Halloween setup to avoid a hefty daily fine.
After displaying a politically themed Halloween decoration for three weeks, the Wausau City Council ultimately fined Cherise Pfeifer for a municipal code violation, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Every October, Cherise transforms her property into a Halloween spectacle. This year’s display notably included various handmade haunted figures and tombstones. Among the decorations was a staged scene depicting a car crash with political figures represented in an unusual tableau.
The focal point of Cherise's display featured a real vehicle staged to look like it had crashed, complete with a dummy under the bonnet and effigies of Donald Trump as the driver and Joe Biden as the passenger. Consequently, local authorities scrutinized this elaborate setup staged on her lawn.
Over the years, Cherise has maintained this approach to decorating for a decade, becoming famously known throughout her city for its originality and scale, which is made all the more notable by her crafted decorations.
About three weeks into the display, which had been a part of her Halloween tradition for three years without issue, Cherise received a concerning letter. Specifically, the Wausau City Council informed her that she violated the municipal code by parking a car on her lawn, an activity that city regulations specifically prohibit.
Cherise, known in her community for her spectacular decorations, expressed her frustration with the city's enforcement.
Moreover, she stated that community members have always appreciated her decorative flair during the Halloween season. In response to the council’s letter, local supporters voiced their disappointment, describing the city’s actions as overly strict and detrimental to the festive atmosphere.
Furthermore, multiple residents took to social media to share their opinions, claiming the car was an integral part of the seasonal decor and posed no harm.
In addition, some comments criticized the city for what they deemed unnecessary regulation, noting that the vehicle would be removed post-Halloween anyway.
The council threatened a fine of $122 for each day the car remained on the lawn. Consequently, facing escalating costs, Cherise made the difficult decision to comply and removed the car to avoid further penalties.
Despite this setback, Cherise's spirit remains unbroken. In fact, she plans to continue her Halloween celebrations with even more elaborate and perhaps provocative decorations, pondering ideas to both comply with and protest the council’s decision.
Moreover, she mentioned her determination to "go harder next year" and is even considering additional displays that creatively interpret city rules.
Among her ideas is placing a chair with a dummy atop her roof and a large sign to highlight the circumstances under which she had to alter her display this year.
Many share glowing reviews of Cherise's Halloween decorations, which makes feedback on her work easy to find. Additionally, this confrontation with the City Council has only bolstered local support and caused many to question the necessity of certain municipal codes that interfere with seasonal festivities.
Furthermore, the city's citation sparked a broader discussion among Wausau residents about the right to decorate their properties and the community's desire to maintain festive traditions without overly stringent regulations.
Determined not to let this incident dim her creativity, Cherise is already brainstorming ideas for next year's display. In fact, she promises it will be unforgettable and comply with the codes, signaling both a challenge and a commitment to city officials.
A teenage boy has endured severe pains as part of a growing E. coli outbreak attributed to onions in McDonald's burgers, raising health concerns across multiple states.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the link between chopped onions used in McDonald's burgers and a concerning E. coli outbreak, impacting at least 90 individuals, including a mental fatality and numerous hospitalizations, Daily Mail reported.
Silas Mayes, a 17-year-old from Colorado, fell ill three days after consuming a Quarter Pounder from McDonald's on October 7, 2024.
Silas experienced intense abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea, symptoms that landed him in the emergency room for initial treatment. He received pain relief and hydration support initially but was soon given stronger medications, including fentanyl, as his condition deteriorated. His mother, Lera Davidson recalled the rapid descent into illness, emphasizing the agony her son experienced.
Before falling ill, Silas was an active teenager engaged in hiking and skateboarding. However, the severity of the E. coli infection has significantly weakened him, making it challenging to engage in activities he loves.
As a result, this drastic change in his lifestyle has been hard on him and his family, highlighting the personal impact of foodborne illnesses.
The CDC's investigation identified the source of the outbreak as contaminated onions. Following their discovery, they assured the public that the risk had been mitigated through a recall of the affected onions.
Consequently, the outbreak, first detected in late September, prompted a broader scrutiny of food safety practices at restaurant chains.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald's temporarily removed the Quarter Pounder from their menu and later reintroduced it without onions. Similarly, other fast food chains followed suit by withholding onions as a precaution.
Moreover, Silas' family, like others affected, is planning to take legal action against McDonald's, underlining the broader implications of the outbreak on food industry standards.
The outbreak has taken a significant emotional and physical toll on affected families. Lera Davidson now fully assumes the responsibility of preparing food at home, taking extra precautions to prevent further illness. Many families, preparing for potential lawsuits, echo her distrust of fast food in their statements.
Silas recovers slowly, with regular medical checkups now part of his routine and his parents carefully overseeing his diet. National food poisoning lawyers like Ron Simon, representing several clients with severe complications, took notice of the outbreak, which slowed as no new cases were reported after October 16.
The E. coli outbreak has impacted 13 states, leaving a lasting mark. Its quick transmission and severe effects on individuals like Silas have driven a push for stricter oversight in food safety protocols.
McDonald’s and other chains have taken actions to prevent another incident, reinforcing a clear message about the need for vigilance in food preparation and supply chain monitoring.
The company expressed its concern, yet McDonald’s has not directly addressed the claims from families directly impacted.
Many have noticed this lack of direct response, which frames the discussion around corporate responsibility and consumer safety.
Affected individuals and their families have rallied together, drawing considerable media attention that may influence future industry standards.
As legal processes unfold, they hope this unfortunate event will lead to strengthened food safety practices to prevent similar outbreaks from recurring and to safeguard consumers' health nationwide.
A 6.1-magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Oregon on Wednesday, with its tremors felt across regions without leading to a tsunami.
The impact of the earthquake was felt by residents However, no significant damage was reported immediately following the event, Daily Mail reported.
The quake, emanating from the Blanco Fracture Zone (BFZ), occurred about 170 miles west of Bandon and 250 miles west-southwest of Salem, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The incident happened at 1:15 pm local time. This zone is well-known for its seismic activity, surpassing even the notorious San Andreas Fault in California in terms of earthquake frequency.
Seismic experts place the BFZ, where the quake originated, about 275 miles west of the Oregon coastline and 200 miles west of the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Stretching over 90 miles off Cape Blanco and extending northwest to roughly 300 miles off Newport, this geological configuration underscores the region's vulnerability to seismic events.
Seismologists recorded the earthquake’s depth at approximately six miles below the ocean's surface, contributing to light-to-medium shaking felt in areas such as western Oregon and northern California. Initially rated a 6.1 magnitude, seismologists later adjusted the tremor’s strength to a 6.0.
The National Weather Service was quick to confirm that the quake did not pose a tsunami threat, effectively calming initial public concern. Their message was clear: "There is NO tsunami danger with this 6.1 earthquake off the coast of Oregon. Repeat: NO tsunami danger."
This earthquake surfaced merely a day following Oregon's state-wide emergency response exercise, dubbed Iron-OR 24, designed to test the readiness of various agencies in dealing with natural disasters. Amanda Westervelt, Operations Coordinator at the Portland Bureau of Emergency Management, emphasized the state's continuous preparedness, stating, "We’re in that timeframe where we could experience another one at any time, so we’re getting ready."
Oregon State University reports that the Blanco Fracture Zone has historically been a hotspot for earthquakes, recording over 1,500 events of magnitude 4.0 or greater since the 1970s. This includes numerous quakes in recent years, such as nine in 2022 and 66 the year before, which highlights the area’s frequent seismic activity.
Harold Tobin, director of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, reiterated the usual occurrence of such events at this location: "This is a very typical mag[nitude] 6 earthquake in the Blanco Transform fault, very far offshore of Oregon. We see at least one such earthquake nearly every year."
After the earthquake, authorities considered temporarily closing transportation infrastructure near Bandon to facilitate safety inspections. Additionally, an aftershock with a preliminary magnitude of 3.5 struck roughly two hours after the main quake, prompting emergency management teams to remain vigilant.
Crisis 24, a disaster response agency, detailed the challenges in rapidly assessing the damage due to the quake’s remote epicenter. Their representative mentioned, "It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas."
Crisis 24 also predicted moderate-to-light aftershocks following the main tremor, assuring that these would not trigger any tsunami advisories. They continue to monitor aftershocks closely, assessing ongoing risks and preparing for potential future earthquakes.
In 2019, Luciano D'Adamo awoke from a coma to find that nearly four decades of his life had been erased.
Initially believing he was still 23, the now 68-year-old struggles to reconnect with a vastly changed world and his missing past, according to The US Sun.
Indeed, Luciano D'Adamo, a 68-year-old father, experienced a traumatic turn of events that drastically altered the course of his life.
In 2019, a hit-and-run incident left him in a coma. When he finally regained consciousness, D'Adamo believed it was still 1980, the year he turned 23. He felt immense shock when he first saw his reflection—an older man he did not recognize.
As he adjusted to the reality of his aging self and a new world, D'Adamo felt overwhelmed. He found himself in a life that felt deeply unfamiliar, surrounded by family members who had grown older or passed away, including his mother.
Furthermore, he had no memory of attending his mother’s funeral or even recognizing one of his brothers, adding to his profound disorientation.
Over the years, medical professionals at the Santa Lucia Institute tried tirelessly to help D'Adamo reclaim his lost memories, yet despite their efforts, success remained limited. His wife supported him by creating folders and notes documenting significant life events; however, D'Adamo only experienced fleeting moments of remembrance.
Even five years post-coma, D'Adamo's memory gaps remained vast. He expressed his frustration and sadness to Corriere Della Serra, lamenting the essential parts of his life that continue to elude him. "I am not happy. I cannot be," he stated, capturing the essence of his struggle with amnesia.
D'Adamo also shared the surreal moments of his recovery, such as seeing himself in the mirror for the first time as an older man, which he described as akin to a scene from a horror movie. "I walk in front of the mirror and look at the person who appears. It's an elderly gentleman, not me. It's someone else. I scream, the nurses come and try to calm me down. I was terrified," he recounted.
Attempting to reconstruct a life that makes sense, D'Adamo began working at a local school, embracing the changes as best he could.
Nonetheless, he felt haunted by the realization that the driver responsible for his condition had never been caught or brought to justice. Consequently, this unresolved aspect of his story adds another layer of trauma and injustice to his already turbulent reentry into societal life.
The sense of loss extended beyond personal identity and memory; indeed, the connections that define one’s familial and social existence were severed or distorted.
D'Adamo discussed the contradictions between his perceived age and reality with poignant clarity, for instance, feeling puzzled by the presence of his adult son, whom he initially believed should still be a child.
"He must have been thirty, how could he be my son, since I'm twenty-three?" he wondered aloud, illustrating the jarring discrepancies between his mental and physical timelines.
His condition led to absurd situations that challenged his comprehension of lived experiences. D'Adamo mentioned that he had never flown on a plane, only for his wife to remind him of their travels together, including a trip to Paris, which he could not recall.
The doctors reassured D'Adamo and his family, suggesting that patience was essential and that the memories might return. Yet, as years passed with little improvement, their hope for a complete recovery dwindled.
The journey of recovery and adaptation continues to challenge D'Adamo and his family. Every day, he fights to piece together who he was and to embrace who he must now be.
Reflecting on his fragmented existence, he said, "I fight, I have a good character. But I have only lived a third of my life. Thirty-nine years are in the dark. I have learned that only memory is life lived. The rest flies in the wind."
D'Adamo's story touches on profound themes of identity, memory, and the cruel randomness of fate. Furthermore, it also highlights the need for effective support systems for those dealing with severe memory disorders, emphasizing the long, often incomplete road to recovery that lies ahead for many.
In addition, as he faces each day with new challenges and few memories of his past, D'Adamo's experience serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of the human mind and the resilience required to navigate a life so drastically rewritten.
Two American women were removed from a flight at Heathrow Airport on Monday after a dispute over a political hat escalated, delaying the flight's departure by two hours.
The altercation centered around a Donald Trump MAGA hat and occurred just before the US Presidential elections, highlighting heightened tensions, according to The US Sun.
The incident unfolded on British Airways flight BA191, which was set to depart for Austin, Texas. As passengers boarded the plane at Terminal 5, a heated argument erupted between the two women over one wearing a Donald Trump MAGA hat.
The disagreement rapidly intensified, with one woman demanding that the other remove her hat. The refusal to comply led to a physical altercation, with punches exchanged among those involved, catching the attention of both passengers and crew.
The commotion continued as both women boarded the plane, specifically in the premium economy section. Witnesses reported that the exchange of punches and obscenities persisted aboard the aircraft, disrupting other passengers and the flight crew.
In response to the escalating disturbance, the flight captain requested assistance. Police arrived at the aircraft to handle the situation, escorting both women off the plane while the argument continued.
As a result of the delay and disruption, the flight, initially scheduled to depart at 12:10 PM, finally left at 2:11 PM without the two involved passengers. British Airways issued an apology for the delay and worked diligently to resume the planned itinerary swiftly and safely.
After removing the women from the plane, the Metropolitan Police interviewed both at Heathrow. They identified the women as one in her 40s and another in her 60s, who filed counter-allegations of affray against each other.
A Metropolitan Police spokesman elaborated on the event, stating, “Shortly after 12.45 pm on Monday, 28 October, police at Heathrow were made aware of an incident involving two women waiting to board a plane in Terminal 5.” He added that the inquiries into this incident are ongoing, noting the complexity due to the public nature of the altercation and the varying accounts of the incident.
The scene drew significant attention from fellow travelers and airport staff, with many observing that the argument could escalate further if not addressed. A source from Heathrow cited the proximity to the US Presidential election as a factor in the high tension, explaining, "Airline crew could not run the risk of a full-scale punch-up at 30,000 feet." The source described the event as "extraordinary."
British Airways, addressing the situation, responded with a commitment to customer service, issuing a statement: “We apologized to our customers for the delay and got them on the way as quickly as possible.” This highlighted the airline's protocol for ensuring passenger safety and minimizing disruptions while it addressed unforeseen incidents.
The airline addressed customer service issues related to the delayed flight, assisting passengers with rescheduling and providing updates as they managed the situation. Reports noted the impact on other passengers, highlighting their frustration and concern over the extended wait and the nature of the altercation.
This incident at Heathrow reminds us of the often volatile mix of politics and public spaces, particularly in sensitive contexts like international travel. With the upcoming election, it underscores the broader social dynamics at play and the intense emotions involved.
As investigations continue, the MET Police have not yet made any arrests in the matter. Police are actively reviewing the issue, gathering evidence and witness testimonies to clarify the sequence of events.
Many await the outcome of this investigation, especially those concerned with safety and civility in air travel. The incident has spurred discussions on proper responses and preventive measures for similar situations, particularly involving politically charged apparel and accessories in confined spaces like aircraft.
Both the airline and airport authorities are assessing their procedures to improve management of such situations, aiming to ensure safety and respect for all passengers, regardless of political affiliations or personal beliefs.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a mother and her two young children lost their lives after they jumped from Luna Island into the turbulent waters of Niagara Falls. Chianti Means, aged 33, along with her son Roman Rossman, 9, and five-month-old daughter Mecca Means, are believed to have made the fatal leap on Monday night.
The incident, characterized by authorities as intentional, remains under close investigation, Mail Online reported.
The New York State Police are working tirelessly to understand the events leading to the deaths of Chianti Means and her children. Officers have noted that the act appeared intentional. Emergency response teams arrived at the horrific scene late Monday evening.
Luna Island, situated between the American Falls and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls, is a popular spot within Niagara Falls known for its panoramic views but tragically became the setting for this devastating event. Police reports indicate that the family crossed the protective guardrail before plunging into the waterfall.
Authorities have encountered significant challenges in the recovery effort. So far, they have not retrieved the bodies from the dangerous waters below the falls. Due to the difficult terrain and powerful water currents, they are using unmanned aircraft and specialized underwater recovery units in their search.
News of the tragedy quickly spread through the local Niagara Falls community, where the Means family lived. Friends and neighbors expressed shock and sorrow, grappling with the sudden loss of this young family.
Chianti Means was widely known and respected as a domestic violence counselor. She dedicated her career to helping others overcome personal crises and trauma, a commitment that makes the nature of this incident even more baffling to those who knew her.
Officials have yet to determine a motive for why Chianti would decide to end her life along with her children’s. “Circumstances remain under investigation,” stated a spokesperson for the state police, underscoring the ongoing efforts to piece together the final moments of the family.
Recovery teams are actively deploying advanced technical equipment in and around Luna Island. The terrain and water conditions have created significant challenges, highlighting the area’s dangerous nature.
Mental health experts and crisis counselors are on hand to support those affected by the deaths, while the local community has organized vigils and gatherings to find comfort together during this difficult time.
State police, although discreet about specifics of the ongoing investigation, remain committed to fully understanding this incident. They are using unmanned aircraft among several measures to locate the bodies and gather evidence that may clarify the circumstances leading up to the tragic jump.
This incident has prompted discussions on safety measures at Niagara Falls, especially in areas with easy public access. Community leaders and safety officials are actively reviewing current protocols and considering improvements to prevent similar tragedies.
As the investigation continues, authorities stay in close contact with the relatives and friends of the deceased, aiming to bring closure to the family while ensuring public safety at this iconic landmark.
While the community grieves, the lingering question of "why" weighs heavily, leaving a lasting mark on those who cherished Chianti, Roman, and Mecca. With more details expected to surface, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and community through this profound loss.
In an illuminating discussion about her career and lineage, Riley Keough highlighted the ups and downs of growing up in a legendary family.
Keough reflected on both the unique advantages and significant challenges tied to her familial connections to entertainment icons Elvis and Lisa Marie Presley, according to Fox News.
At 35, Riley Keough stands out as more than just an actress; as the granddaughter of Elvis Presley and the daughter of Lisa Marie Presley and musician Danny Keough, her story is unique. She entered the limelight as a model at 14, making her first major runway appearance at a Dolce & Gabbana show during Milan Fashion Week in 2004—a debut that soon led to a multifaceted career in acting.
By 2010, Riley had made her way into the film industry, debuting in "The Runaways." Since then, she has amassed a credible body of work, including roles in well-received projects such as "Magic Mike" and "The Girlfriend Experience." Alongside acting, she ventured into production, co-founding the company Felix Culpa with Gina Gammell, affirming her commitment to the industry.
Yet, Riley has faced personal losses and the immense legacy she inherited. Her mother, Lisa Marie Presley—Elvis Presley’s only child—passed away last year due to a bowel obstruction. Lisa Marie’s life carried intense pressures and public scrutiny, a reality Riley knows all too well.
The challenges deepened with the tragic suicide of her younger brother, Benjamin, in 2020, a heartbreaking event for the family.
Riley also has two younger sisters, twins Harper and Finley, from her mother’s later marriage to Michael Lockwood, who have likewise experienced the harsh glare of public attention due to their family’s history.
Riley’s ascent in entertainment was ardently championed by her mother, who often advised her on navigating the industry’s pitfalls.
Lisa Marie’s guidance was tinged with caution, as she told Riley, "If you’re going to do this, you have to be so good at what you do, or else nobody’s going to take you seriously."
This advice shaped Riley's approach to her career, urging her to transcend the 'celebrity kid' label and establish a respected legacy of her own.
Notwithstanding her efforts and successes, Riley openly acknowledges the influence of her background on her career opportunities. "I’m sure being Elvis’s granddaughter has made it easier for me to get an agent, to have meetings and all this stuff, when I started," she admitted.
This self-awareness extends to her recognition of the ongoing discourse around nepotism in Hollywood, especially concerning ‘repo-babies’ - a term for individuals benefiting professionally from family connections.
Riley actively engages in these conversations, recognizing the importance of acknowledging the privileges her lineage has provided.
Yet, she highlights her self-driven work ethic and commitment to excellence, which she asserts has been her own from the start. This mix of privilege and personal perseverance distinctively shapes her professional identity.
Recently, she assumed the significant role of sole trustee of the Graceland estate, further intertwining her personal and professional life with her family’s legacy.
Alongside her production work and acting roles, she completed her mother's memoir, From Here to the Great Unknown, which was published earlier this month, adding a personal touch to her family’s publicly shared story.
Reflecting on her mother's troubled experiences with fame, Riley shared, "The most heartbreaking thing for me, growing up, was to watch this woman who I could tell so deeply wanted love and friendship, really struggle to find it." Her mother's challenges have not only been a lesson but also a catalyst for Riley's approach to her career and public persona.
Hollywood star Reese Witherspoon praised Riley Keough for her resilience in facing media scrutiny while excelling in high-caliber roles.
Reese admires how Riley blends her heritage and hard work to advance her career despite intense public attention.
Riley Keough continues to shape her story in showbiz, navigating a narrative rich with legacy, loss, and self-made success. Her journey reflects the complexities of balancing a famous lineage with carving out her own identity in a demanding industry.
Channing Tatum and Zoe Kravitz have officially ended their engagement, prompting fans to speculate about the reasons behind their split.
Judi James, a body language expert, indicates that their recent public appearances already hinted at strains in their relationship, Daily Mail reported.
The couple, who first sparked romance rumors in August 2021, quickly captivated the public. They confirmed their relationship on Halloween of that year by donning matching costumes. This confirmation intensified the intrigue that followed their initial sighting together the month prior, after the Met Gala. Their relationship seemed to flourish rapidly, with both stars frequently stepping into the limelight together.
Channing Tatum and Zoe Kravitz ventured beyond dating; they collaborated professionally on the thriller "Blink Twice", which marked Zoe’s directorial debut. Their personal and professional lives appeared deeply entwined, suggesting a powerful partnership. During this period, their bond seemed strong, especially when viewed through their social media exchanges and mutual projects.
By August 2023, the pair decided to take their relationship a step further by getting engaged. This development preceded another movie collaboration, with both actors set to star in the upcoming comedy "Alpha Gang". Their collaboration extended beyond their personal lives and thrived in their professional endeavors.
The turning point came during their last public outing together in August 2024 at the European premiere of "Blink Twice". Here, subtle signs of trouble began to emerge. Judi James analyzed this appearance and pointed out that the dynamics between Channing and Zoe had noticeably shifted. Channing's minimal effort in his appearance and his subdued expression contrasted sharply with Zoe's attempt to project happiness.
James noted, "Channing seems to be putting in very little effort to either deny or paper over any problems, standing and posing with a rather dour expression and one hand stuffed into his pocket." This observation starkly departed from their previous displays of affection and mutual support, hinting that not everything was as perfect as it seemed.
Zoe tried to portray unity, smiling at Channing during the premiere, yet her smiles seemed forced, as if maintaining a façade of a loving relationship. "Zoe seems to be trying to project some suggestion of them being a loving couple," James remarked. When Zoe looked away, her smile faded, revealing an undercurrent of dissonance between the couple’s public appearances and private realities.
Their interaction contrasted sharply with a tender Instagram post by Channing on September 3, where he featured Zoe sleeping on his chest. In a heartfelt message, Channing expressed his deep admiration and support for Zoe, stating, "She poured every single ounce of her into this film. I’m so proud to stand ten toes down for her.” Ironically, this post marked the last time they appeared together publicly.
Although Channing recently got a tattoo of Zoe’s initials, they called off their engagement soon after their last appearance together. This split has fueled speculation about the balance of their personal and professional lives, especially given their upcoming joint film project.
James further elaborated on their body language, "When she looks away, though, her face seems to drop. There's a lack of what looks like any synchronicity of intent." This lack of synchrony could suggest that although outward appearances were maintained, the end of their engagement might not have been entirely mutual or expected by both parties.
As of now, no official comments have been made by their representatives regarding the breakup. Both Channing and Zoe have faced personal relationship challenges in the past; Zoe was previously married to Karl Glusman, and Channing divorced Jenna Dewan.
The public and fans are left reflecting on the couple’s journey from a seemingly fairy-tale romance to an unexpected ending. As they continue their separate professional paths with the upcoming release of "Alpha Gang," the true dynamics of their off-screen relationship remain a topic of intrigue and speculation.
Critics have met the much-anticipated reunion of Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in Robert Zemeckis's new film "Here" with less than stellar reviews. Known for their memorable performances in the 1994 classic "Forrest Gump", the duo has come together once again, but this time, critics have reacted quite differently.
"Here," a film based on a 2014 graphic novel and directed by Robert Zemeckis, has gathered poor critiques for its heavy reliance on technology which overshadowed its storytelling and character development, ScreenRant reported.
The movie spans multiple generations and tells the story of various families living in the same house over centuries. Drawing from Richard McGuire's innovative graphic novel, the film interweaves these intersecting timelines through pioneering filmmaking techniques. Zemeckis co-wrote, directed, and produced "Here" with Eric Roth, aiming to combine a complex narrative with cutting-edge technology.
For their first project together since "Forrest Gump", Hanks and Wright, along with an ensemble cast including Paul Bettany and Kelly Reilly, appear digitally de-aged to play their characters across different periods. Fans of the original film highly anticipated this reunion.
Robert Zemeckis, known for his innovative approach to filmmaking, employed groundbreaking de-aging technology and a stationary camera setup to tell the story of "Here". He intended these choices to enhance the film's ambitious narrative structure and provide a different visual experience. However, critics have not responded well to this focus on technology.
Despite the advanced techniques and the reunion of Hanks and Wright, reviewers criticized the 104-minute drama for what they perceived as its technological overemphasis. The cast, which also includes Michelle Dockery, Leslie Zemeckis, Jonathan Aris, Joel Oulette, and Daniel Betts, found themselves confined within the limits of the film’s creative choices.
Shortly after its release, 12 critics reviewed "Here" on Rotten Tomatoes, resulting in a notably low score of 25%. Critics frequently pointed to a lack of character development and emotional impact. The Daily Beast called the movie "an embarrassment," while IndieWire lamented the wasted potential of a de-aged Hanks and Wright.
IGN remarked that the movie lacks essential elements that define a film, suggesting that the focus on technology might have detracted from more fundamental cinematic components. Similarly, The Hollywood Reporter criticized the film for restricting its lead stars with its approach, and UPI felt the movie "lacks heart."
Despite the overwhelmingly negative feedback, Deadline offered a somewhat more balanced view, appreciating the effort to blend new filmmaking technologies with relatable stories. However, it agreed with the general sentiment that the execution favored cinematic flair over a gripping narrative. Variety also noted that the film distracted itself with less substantial plot threads.
"Here," produced by ImageMovers, Playtone, and Miramax, and distributed by TriStar Pictures, is set for a wider release on November 15, 2024. Whether the audience's response mirrors that of the critics remains to be seen, but the initial impressions suggest that the film may struggle to connect with viewers.
In his defense, Zemeckis has described himself as a filmmaker always on the brink of pushing boundaries. Whether this film’s reception will influence his future projects or not is another story to tell. The industry and fans alike will be watching to see if "Here" can eventually find its audience, despite the rocky start.
For now, "Here" stands as a case study of how the balance between technology and narrative is a delicate art that not all films manage to achieve. The reunion of Hanks and Wright, under the direction of Zemeckis, was a compelling premise that may have needed more than advanced technology to recreate the magic of their earlier work together.
Jimmy Kimmel recently attempted to deter Republican viewers from re-electing Donald Trump, but his efforts took a surprising turn, leading some to affirm their support for the former president.
In a pointed 19-minute speech, Kimmel's critiques intended to sway voters instead heightened some individuals' resolve to support Trump, Daily Mail reported.
In an episode of his late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel promised to avoid "liberal virtue signaling" as he launched into a lengthy critique of Donald Trump. Kimmel openly acknowledged his bias against Trump and based his argument on a series of video clips featuring Trump's speeches, interviews, and rally statements.
Kimmel stated in his monologue, "Am I biased against Donald Trump? Yes. Do I think I have good reasons for being biased against him? Yes." He hoped that by sharing his reasons, he could help even skeptical viewers see his perspective, at least slightly.
However, Kimmel's message failed to resonate with his audience. Some viewers expressed that his approach only alienated those who were undecided or leaned slightly conservative, pushing them toward Trump instead. One viewer shared, "I was on the fence, but since Hollywood elites like Jimmy Kimmel are supporting Harris, I’ll cast a vote for Trump."
Others criticized the tone of the monologue, accusing Kimmel of losing the comedic and neutral essence that once defined American late-night television. Another viewer lamented, "Remember when Johnny Carson and Jay Leno were hosts and it was all about class and entertainment? Jimmy is a clown."
In his effort to showcase what he calls Trump’s unfitness for office, Kimmel referenced various issues under Trump’s administration, including healthcare and policies on transgender children. He also highlighted merchandise, such as Trump’s Bibles, allegedly made in China, and criticized Trump’s inconsistency on his tough stance against China:
Now those Bibles weren't even made in the USA; they were made in China. That's how tough he is on China; he forces them to make his Bibles for him.
Kimmel used this aspect of his argument to highlight contradictions in Trump’s policies and actions, underscoring his points with the former president’s own words and decisions. Still, negative reactions dominated many social media platforms and talk shows following the broadcast.
Despite the backlash, some viewers and online commenters praised Kimmel for using direct quotes and video clips from Trump himself exhaustively. One comment on the X platform stated, "This is brilliant by Kimmel, all in Trump's own words."
Another supportive comment read, "Jimmy Kimmel with a powerful prosecution of Trump's nonsense and idiocy in tonight's monologue. Killing the goon with video evidence." Supporters found Kimmel's method effective, applauding his detailed, evidence-based approach to critiquing Trump.
However, the divisive nature of the monologue highlights a broader issue in American media and politics: the challenge of conveying critical viewpoints in a polarized environment without deepening the divide. Instead of bridging gaps, Kimmel’s intended message seemed only to entrench existing biases, raising questions about the role of entertainers in political discourse.
The incident, therefore, prompts valuable questions about how political commentary from entertainers impacts audiences. As society continues grappling with media influence and partisan divides, such monologues significantly shape both broadcast content and viewer perceptions.
Moreover, as America approaches another election cycle, the interaction between media figures like Kimmel and the voting public remains a critical area for study. Analysts and commentators will undoubtedly scrutinize these dynamics further, seeking to understand how entertainment and politics intersect and influence each other in today’s digital age.
Whether Kimmel’s monologue will shape viewer attitudes toward Trump in the long term remains uncertain. However, the immediate aftermath suggests that, in America’s sharply divided political landscape, attempts to sway public opinion through media can, in fact, lead to unintended consequences.
