New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News
A street view at night of a tall geometric building with lights shining through the windows.
The names behind NYU’s buildings
NYU Goddard Hall
Sociology and Environmental Studies deps. to relocate to the former Goddard Hall
A line of N.Y.P.D. officers form a barrier between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian protesters across the street from the encampment.
Accreditation agency drops complaint against NYU
A group of protesters hold signs in front of a large red sculpture. Some signs read “Judaism Condemns the State of ‘Israel’ And its Atrocities” and “MONEY FOR JOBS AND EDUCATION NOT FOR BOMBS AND OCCUPATION” above “N.Y.U. STUDENTS FOR A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY.”
Students protest Tandon ties to Israeli military weapon manufacturers
People walking outside of a building that reads “STRAND BOOKS” while holding signs.
Strand Bookstore workers go on strike, demand higher wages
People walking outside of a building that reads “STRAND BOOKS” while holding signs.
Strand Bookstore workers go on strike, demand higher wages
The front of a brick building with a white door. There is a sign to the right of the door that reads “SIGN OUR PETITION SAVE THE LANDMARK MERCHANT’S HOUSE”
A local museum’s campaign to keep its doors open
The exterior of the main entrance of N.Y.U. Langone Health center, located at 550 First Ave.
Researchers at NYU Langone deem kidney transplants between HIV-positive people safe
People stand in front steps lined with candles, while others light them.
NYU students join citywide youth to honor trans lives in Washington Square Park
The number 6 train arrives at the Union Square station. People stand on the platform and walk on an overpass above the tracks.
NYU Langone calls on Gov. Hochul to reduce travel tolls for patients
A street view at night of a tall geometric building with lights shining through the windows.
The names behind NYU’s buildings
NYU Goddard Hall
Sociology and Environmental Studies deps. to relocate to the former Goddard Hall
A line of N.Y.P.D. officers form a barrier between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian protesters across the street from the encampment.
Accreditation agency drops complaint against NYU
A group of protesters hold signs in front of a large red sculpture. Some signs read “Judaism Condemns the State of ‘Israel’ And its Atrocities” and “MONEY FOR JOBS AND EDUCATION NOT FOR BOMBS AND OCCUPATION” above “N.Y.U. STUDENTS FOR A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY.”
Students protest Tandon ties to Israeli military weapon manufacturers
The facade of an N.Y.U. building on 105 East 17th Street.
STEM gender gap smaller at selective universities, NYU study finds
A group of people stand with protest signs in front of a purple-colored construction wall and barricades
NYU Law admin threatens pro-Palestinian students with disciplinary action
A group of people stand with protest signs in front of a purple colored construction wall and barricades
Students protest police presence on campus outside Gould Plaza wall
An audience sitting in rows of wooden desks attentively listening in a well-lit conference room with large windows in the background.
NYU, UC Berkeley activists criticize crackdown on free speech at college campuses
A structure with draped white sheets that has the words “N.Y.U. FUNDS GENOCIDE” painted in black and red paint sits in the middle of a walkway with students confronting university staff.
Anti-Zionist Jewish group criticizes NYU ‘restrictions on movement’ at Gaza Solidarity Sukkah
(Danny Arensberg for WSN)
Jewish students set up Gaza Solidarity Sukkah in Schwartz Plaza
A large group of people sit on the large staircase inside the lobby of New York University’s Kimmel Center for University Life, with one person in the front row holding a sign with text “WOMAN LIFE FREEDOM” printed on it.
Students demand more from Hamilton on Iran demonstrations
The logo of New York University's Asian/Pacific/American Studies in white in the middle of leaves and flowers.
Asian/Pacific/American Studies major lacks adequate representation, students and faculty say
An exterior shot of the Bronfman Center. On the left is the entrance of the building with a New York University sign that reads “STILL REQUIRED FACE MASK.” On the right is a plaque that reads “New York University 7 The EDGAR M. BRONFMAN CENTER FOR JEWISH STUDENT LIFE”
NYU disputes failing grade on antisemitism report
Dr. Jonathan Haidt speaking in front of an audience with a presentation labeled “The Partisan Divide on Political Values Grows Even Wider” behind him.
Stern professor resigns from professional org. after refusing to write diversity statement
An illustration of a gray facade which reads “NYU School of Global Public Health”, with a purple banner that reads “NYU” on the right side, all against a pale background.
Women with disabilities more likely to report food insecurity, NYU study finds
A woman smiling against a black background with the words “N.Y.U. BEYOND” written to the left.
Beyond NYU: Opening doors to STEM for students of color nationwide
A close-up shot of a man wearing a blue-striped shirt and brown pants sitting in a floral-decorated staircase with big white words that say “BEYOND N.Y.U.”
Beyond NYU: From 8th-grade star to Broadway regular
A girl standing next to a lifesized cardboard cutout of herself, with the words “BEYOND N.Y.U.” written to her left.
Beyond NYU: Turning a creative outlet into a personal brand
A man standing in a suit holding a trophy, with “STUDENT ACADEMY AWARDS” written on the wall behind him and “BEYOND NYU” written to the right.
Beyond NYU: Documenting human rights abuses on camera
A man posing in front of a white backdrop with the words “Beyond N.Y.U.” illustrated next to him.
Beyond NYU: From high school debate to the Broadway stage
Doctor Carl Zimmer speaks from the wooden podium in Hemmerdinger Hall. An audience sits in front of him. Behind him is a projector screen displaying two images.
How science journalists reported on the ‘story of our lifetime’
A man wearing a dotted tie, a white shirt and a black suit jacket speaks in an online conference session. Behind him are a bookshelf and five clocks displaying times in different time zones.
Minnesota prof criticizes public health response at COVID-19 lecture
An illustration of a COVID-19 vaccination card in the background with a half-full syringe on the left of the foreground and a bottle reading “COVID-19 VACCINE BOOSTER” on the right.
Most NYU students haven’t received the bivalent booster, WSN survey finds
A building which has NYU and NYU Steinhardt flags hoisted from a walls.
After one month of checking visitor vax cards, NYU gives up
Seven students wear masks while sitting at their desks in an NYU classroom. A professor sitting on a table listens to a student.
Immunocompromised students concerned following mask mandate removal
The interior of a restaurant with several tables and bar seating. A staircase leading up to a second level is lined with garlands and holiday lights.
5 restaurants for a proper end-of-semester feast
A screen with the words “Fork n’ Film” projected onto it, with an image of a fork and a film reel below it.
Sipping and savoring cinema
A street view at night of a tall geometric building with lights shining through the windows.
The names behind NYU’s buildings
An illustration of a woman wearing a short red dress with a brown bow. They wear knee-high stockings and red kitten heels.
The Christmas song kit for a perfect winter fit
An illustration of simplified drawings of various forms of self-care like tea, a person wearing a face mask, and a person doing yoga on a blue background.
What it means to take care of yourself across different cultures
An illustration of a woman wearing a short red dress with a brown bow. They wear knee-high stockings and red kitten heels.
The Christmas song kit for a perfect winter fit
An illustration of simplified drawings of various forms of self-care like tea, a person wearing a face mask, and a person doing yoga on a blue background.
What it means to take care of yourself across different cultures
A display table with several decorative chocolates. Words on the front of the table read “LE CHOCOLAT, Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton.”
Fashion designers are cooking, literally
An illustration of various winter clothing items. Depicted in front of a snowy background is a fur coat, a gray sweater, brown ballet flats, a mannequin head with a furry hood and a pair of legs in a miniskirt wearing knee-high boots.
Winter fashion trend report 2024
Six pairs of various boots and loafers against a magenta background.
Booting out the basics: 6 unique Dr. Martens for the winter
The interior of a restaurant with several tables and bar seating. A staircase leading up to a second level is lined with garlands and holiday lights.
5 restaurants for a proper end-of-semester feast
A screen with the words “Fork n’ Film” projected onto it, with an image of a fork and a film reel below it.
Sipping and savoring cinema
Three side dishes in small round containers sitting in an inverted pyramid form.
New eats near NYU: At Kernel, a robotic arm serves up some of the best vegetables in the city
A display table with several decorative chocolates. Words on the front of the table read “LE CHOCOLAT, Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton.”
Fashion designers are cooking, literally
A woman wearing a blue sweater smiles while standing in front of a bookshelf.
Why you should be thinking about food beyond your plate
An illustration of simplified drawings of various forms of self-care like tea, a person wearing a face mask, and a person doing yoga on a blue background.
What it means to take care of yourself across different cultures
On a light green background, four orange rectangles show hands making different signs in each one.
How multicultural sororities foster community at NYU
An illustration of a map of New York City with Filipino flags marking points on the map.
Finding community from Manila to Manhattan
The letters in my NetID differ from the name I go by. Here’s why.
The letters in my NetID differ from the name I go by. Here’s why.
An illustration of a silhouette of a person with short hair in front of several world landmarks and a turkey.
Home is where the heart finds its place
A collage of various N.Y.U.-specific illustrations in green and blue.
Ranked: NYU lore
An illustration of an oven roasted turkey against a light purple background.
Ranked: Thanksgiving foods
An illustration of a taco fighting french fries boxing in a ring.
Ranked: Fast food near campus
(Gia Sidhu for WSN)
Ranked: Microtrends
A collage of three photos. On the left, a model walks in a black, lace bodysuit with knee–length tassels hanging from the neckline. In the middle, a model stands in front of a flashlight, wearing a high khaki-beige collar with layered circular cut-out on two sides, with a side slit skirt and knee high boots. On the right, a model wears an oversized blue pinstripe suit and a beige hat. There is a red bandana tied around their neck and collection of small red knotted ropes attached to one breast of their jacket.
Ranked: The top 5 looks from WSN’s NYFW coverage
A model wearing a long light-blue spaghetti-strap dress walks in the middle of 10 other models standing in a circle.
WSN at New York Fashion Week
Six models wearing all black, walking down a runway in a single-file line.
Frederick Anderson delivers African glam and elegance in his Spring 2025 collection
A model wears a pink and green tweed jacket in front of clothing racks.
Californian brand St. John puts an edgy twist on vintage classics at NYFW
Two images of models side-by-side
Andrew Kwon’s ‘ephemeral’ embraces fantastical floral fashion
A model wearing a black hat and hoodie with orange accents, a white undershirt and black pants and shoes walks down a white tiled runway while carrying a beige bag with green leaves.
Flying Solo returns to NYFW, attempting to push the fashion envelope
A screen with the words “Fork n’ Film” projected onto it, with an image of a fork and a film reel below it.
Sipping and savoring cinema
A woman standing in a long, white dress in front of a building with a carousel behind her.
Q&A: Rising artist Zoe Tan on new single and her time at NYU
An illustration of a light blue retro television, with colorful statics and “Staff Recs Nostalgia Edition” written in the middle.
Staff Recs: Childhood holiday nostalgia
Three balconies spiraling up with various art pieces on the walls and people perusing them.
Review: The Guggenheim’s new exhibition teaches a history lesson about a fleeting art movement
An illustration of a Christmas wreath wrapped in shiny gold ribbon and an ornament, with red and green sections showing different film posters. In the middle is the Netflix logo wearing a red santa hat.
Ranked: Every 2024 Netflix Christmas rom-com
A photo of a half green and white book cover with a cat, three chairs and three mugs on a table. Displayed is the title “Before we forget kindness, a novel" and the author’s name “TOSHIKAZU KAWAGUCHI.”
Review: The comforting magic of ‘Before We Forget Kindness’
Two greyscale photos of women, with “DIDION” at the top, an ampersand in the middle and “BABITZ” at the bottom. The one above holds a cigarette and the one below looks over her sunglasses.
Q&A: Lili Anolik on literary ‘It’ girls Joan Didion and Eve Babitz
Four illustrations of different book covers.
Books beyond Bobst: 2 collections of feminist essays, a critique of U.S. foreign policy and more
A man with glasses and a mustache wearing a blue jacket stands in front of the McDonald’s golden arches.
Mapping out McDonald’s
A collage of four illustrations of book covers.
4 books about food and family to dive into over Thanksgiving break
A screen with the words “Fork n’ Film” projected onto it, with an image of a fork and a film reel below it.
Sipping and savoring cinema
An illustration of a Christmas wreath wrapped in shiny gold ribbon and an ornament, with red and green sections showing different film posters. In the middle is the Netflix logo wearing a red santa hat.
Ranked: Every 2024 Netflix Christmas rom-com
Two men sit next to each other on a beach, a yellow blanket wrapped around their shoulders.
Review: ‘Queer’ is full of psychedelics and painful pining
A woman wearing a blindfold holding a piece of paperwork over her head.
Review: ‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ distills national tensions into a suspenseful family drama
A sword hangs in mid-air between two men fighting in black and gold gladiator armor. Spectators watch from raised seats behind them.
Review: ‘Gladiator II’ is the world’s new Roman Empire
A woman standing in a long, white dress in front of a building with a carousel behind her.
Q&A: Rising artist Zoe Tan on new single and her time at NYU
An album cover with various polaroids of a man, overlaid to make a whole body.
Review: On ‘Puss & Poems,’ no one complains like Jake Shane
(Courtesy of Universal Pictures)
Review: ‘Wicked: The Soundtrack’ ends on a high note — literally
Album artwork depicting an illustration of a man exhaling a cloud of smoke. Behind him, the sky is orange and red, appearing to be on fire. The words “SLI’ MERRE” are written above him.
Review: ‘Sli’merre 2’ is a woozy, hypnotic sonic trip
An illustration of Ariana Grande facing away and leaning against another version of herself.
The case for ‘eternal sunshine’
An illustration of a hand holding a nutcracker on a blue background scattered with snowflakes.
Let out of the doll box: My retirement from ‘The Nutcracker’
Dancers dressed in soldier costumes lined up onstage.
The Rockettes don’t know when to tap out
Two people stand on a stage with their hands on a table, looking at each other.
Broke People Play Festival expands to uplift more student artists
A person wearing a blue suit with white sleeves holds the hand of a person wearing a pink dress while they sit on a beige couch in a set of a house.
Review: ‘The Great Gatsby’ disguises mediocrity with a star-studded cast
Two women stand over a kitchen island, making a cup of coffee together.
Review: ‘The Roommate’ struggles to find its heart
Three balconies spiraling up with various art pieces on the walls and people perusing them.
Review: The Guggenheim’s new exhibition teaches a history lesson about a fleeting art movement
Ten paintings are hung up in a large group on a light purple gallery wall.
Review: ‘Toward Joy’ builds new frameworks for American art
An illustration of an armed man with a redacted face in front of a collage of U.S. conspiracy imagery.
Review: ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 6’ is annoyingly fun
A woman stands and looks up in front of abstract colors.
When I need to reconnect with myself, I go to museums
A collection of photographs pinned on beige boards on a white wall.
Review: Annie Leibovitz weaves together a tapestry of American culture
A protester holds up a white sign that reads “DISCLOSE, DIVEST”.
Opinion: NYU must sever ties with Tel Aviv University
An illustration of the flags of Ukraine and the United States crossed in front of a black-and-white drawing of destroyed buildings.
Off Topic: A ceasefire in Ukraine isn’t as simple as you think it is
An illustration of a rainbow-colored circle of holding hands. Inside the circle, there is an illustration of two people next to each other with a heart between them.
Opinion: Mutual aid keeps our communities alive — it’s time to get involved
First lady Jill Biden, wearing a red dress and black boots, holds a cellphone as President Joe Biden, wearing a black suit with a blue tie, and his son Hunter Biden, wearing a black shirt, walk behind her.
Off Topic: Hunter Biden’s pardon highlights Democrats’ hypocrisy
Three people wearing purple graduation gowns and black graduation caps are standing raising diplomas. To the left is former N.Y.U. president standing behind a purple-and-white N.Y.U. sign.
Opinion: No longer behind bars, but not truly free
An illustration of a collage of different scenes, such as a war zone, the face of prime minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu and a person holding a sign that says "BANS OFF OUR BODIES."
Editorial: Reflect. Recharge. Then get to work.
An illustration of a balancing weight scale with a box on each side. One says “LOCAL VOTE” and the other says “FEDERAL VOTE.”
Editorial: Think globally, vote locally
NYU students gather for a vigil in Washington Square Park mourning the loss of life in Lebanon on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024 in New York.
Editorial: NYU needs to talk about Lebanon. Publicly.
(Krish Dev for WSN)
Editorial: NYU is stifling protest in an attempt to control its image
(Samson Tu for WSN)
Editorial: NYU must reckon with its actions at Gould Plaza
An illustration of a rainbow-colored circle of holding hands. Inside the circle, there is an illustration of two people next to each other with a heart between them.
Opinion: Mutual aid keeps our communities alive — it’s time to get involved
Three people wearing purple graduation gowns and black graduation caps are standing raising diplomas. To the left is former N.Y.U. president standing behind a purple-and-white N.Y.U. sign.
Opinion: No longer behind bars, but not truly free
A stone bench with armrests on Astor Place.
Opinion: Hostile city planning hides homelessness, but doesn’t solve it.
The exterior of a public restroom in a park.
Opinion: Let New Yorkers be free to pee
Red text reading “EXEMPTION” overlays a stack of tax forms.
Opinion: NYU’s tax-exempt status puts other New York schools at a disadvantage
A caricature illustration of a large man wearing a white nationalist pin while sitting behind a microphone and in front of an upside down American flag.
Opinion: How alt-right media influenced the Gen Z vote
A cobblestone street with brick buildings on the left side and white buildings on the right.
Opinion: Language & Cultural Houses are more than just quaint cottages splattered across campus
An illustration of a white speech bubble that reads “This shit sucks” in black font. Next to it, another speech bubble that is blue and reads “Right?”. Both speech bubbles are against a gray grid background.
Opinion: A 3-step guide to complaining correctly
An illustration of a purple world map with four circles of club logos overlaying it. The top left circle has text “the French club” with the French flag drawn inside the letter “F” against a blue background. The top right circle has the tip of the Empire State Building lit with green, white and red lights and text “ITALIAN CLUB AT N.Y.U.” against a light blue background. The bottom left circle has text “C.M.S” in red and a red flower icon. The bottom right circle has text “Russian Club at N.Y.U” in red against a white background.
Opinion: NYU should promote more conversation clubs
An illustration of a tweet from user @A1exandraCohen with text “if i EVER get Twitter blue, just know it’s a cry for help.” against a blue background. The tweet has two likes.
Opinion: Students can save Twitter
An illustration of seven people standing at purple podiums. One of the podiums has a spotlight on it, with a person raising their hand under the light. There is another spotlight that highlights the words “UP FOR DEBATE”.
Up for Debate: Should NYU adopt institutional restraint?
An illustration of Donald Trump on the left of the drawing pointing his finger, and on the right are a crowd of different colored hands raised and three signs in the middle with the letters “D.E.I.”
Opinion: Will DEI survive another Trump presidency?
A three person panel sitting in front of a crowd. The left person has a blue spotlight on them, the person in the middle has a red and blue spotlight and the person on the right has a red spotlight.
Opinion: Student activism in the age of Trump
Opinion: NYU should reduce the amount of CAS core requirements
Opinion: NYU should reduce the amount of CAS core requirements
An illustration of Donald Trump pointing his finger at a group of figures wearing graduation caps. Behind them are flags of the world.
Guest Essay: Studying as an international student under a second Trump administration
An illustration of a poster on a utility pole with a woman in the center with a question mark over her face. Above are the words “LINDA MILLS” and below are the words “Lookalike Contest.”
Off-Third: Linda Mills lookalike contest brings new crowd to Gould Plaza
A portrait of Eric Adams wearing a gray suit, white collared shirt and navy blue printed tie. He stands in front of a royal blue background and an American flag on a floor stand.
Off-Third: Eric Adams and Rudy Giuliani compete to be NYC’s most disgraced mayor
An illustration of a person with binoculars staring in awe at a woman wearing dark sunglasses and red lipstick.
Off-Third: How to stalk campus celebrities
An image of a N.Y.U. flag, with the color purple edited into pink.
Off-Third: NYU changes branding to save misled patients
A laptop with the screen open to “NYU Albert” is covered with a red X on the left, and a piece of paper with the NYU logo titled “Course Registration” is covered with a green checkmark on the right. The background is blue.
Off Third: NYU takes course registration completely off the grid
An illustration of a white postcard with a red stamp in the top right corner. On the postcard are the words “letter to the editor” in a cursive style. Behind the postcard is a closed gray envelope.
Letter to the Editor: Silver School dean on the case for a tuition-free social work education
An illustration of a white postcard with a red stamp in the top right corner. On the postcard are the words “letter to the editor” in a cursive style. Behind the postcard is a closed gray envelope.
Letter to the Editor: Wasserman Center director on the Handshake job search platform
An illustration of a white postcard with a red stamp in the top right corner. On the postcard are the words “letter to the editor” in a cursive style. Behind the postcard is a closed gray envelope.
Letter to the Editor: CWS director on suicide response and mental health resources
An illustration of a white postcard with a red stamp in the top right corner. On the postcard are the words “letter to the editor” in a cursive style. Behind the postcard is a closed gray envelope.
Letter to the Editor: NYU remains committed to NYU Tel Aviv
An illustration of a white postcard with a red stamp in the top right corner. On the postcard are the words “letter to the editor” in a cursive style. Behind the postcard is a closed gray envelope.
Letter to the Editor: An open letter to President Hamilton
Protesters holding hands amidst a crowd waving a Palestinian flag and holding signs that say “CEASEFIRE NOW LET GAZA LIVE!"
Guest Essay: Why we protest
Five panelists sit on a stage in front of a red curtain and a screen that reads “Listening from the Heart.”
Guest Essay: NYU in Dialogue’s ‘Shared Grief, Shared Hope’ panel was heartbreakingly healing
(Krish Dev for WSN)
Editorial: NYU is stifling protest in an attempt to control its image
The photo is shot from behind a troupe of police in helmets surveying a group of protesters while the Washington Square Arch stands above them all.
Opinion: NYU’s hypocritical attitude toward student activism isn’t new
A student with long hair wearing five different graduation caps stacked on top of one another. There is a purple graduation cap falling off the top and the student is reaching out to catch it.
Opinion: NYU needs to give transfer students a better shot
A person wearing a keffiyeh is zip tied by a cop in protective gear.
Inside NYU’s 180-plus disciplinary cases against pro-Palestinian students and faculty
Students walking on NYU’s Abu Dhabi campus. (Sam Klein for WSN)
‘Extremely disturbing’: Concerns over academic freedom at NYU Abu Dhabi surface following policies restricting attire at graduation
A purple N.Y.U. flag hangs on a building.
A search firm failed to find misconduct allegations against NYU’s former athletics director. Here’s why.
File Photo: NYU Tisch School of the Arts located at 721 Broadway. (Katie Peurrung for WSN)
A Tisch professor disappeared during a misconduct investigation. Two semesters later, he’s scheduled to teach again.
A mural of a woman’s face holding up a chain with the word “LOISAIDA” and a gold cityscape. The words “el bohio murals” and “#BRINGARTBACK” are next to the woman alongside the words “CURATED BY … THRIVECOLLECTIVE.ORG.”
Activists’ 25-year fight to revive an East Village community center
A man in a dark coat standing outside in a park and smiling at the camera.
In the Huddle: Zach Knudsen on his aspirations and optimism for the upcoming season
NYU woman's basketball team celebrated their historic win at the University Senate meeting on March 28.
Why NYU Athletics?
An illustration of bold white text that says “Weekly Sports Update” on a purple background with light purple flowers.
Basketball remains undefeated, wrestling sweeps meet and other news
The Sports Issue | Under the Arch Magazine
The Sports Issue | Under the Arch Magazine
A student athlete goalkeeper in a red uniform prepares to kick a soccer ball.
Women’s soccer reflects on the 2024 season
A person stands on stage staring into the distance. They have dark hair and wear a black fur shawl.
For Hannah Weisz, performance is resistance
In a grayscale comic, a person works at a desk in front of a computer next to a window showing a city in ruins with a fallen sign saying “TECH INDUSTRY.” In the bottom right corner is a thought bubble that says, “Why can’t I find an internship?”
Cartoon: Your major in computer science has been declared
A person in a white top, jeans and pink strawberry earrings sits on a park bench with a pink tote bag.
Style on the Square
(Krish Dev for WSN)
Finding school spirit at NYU
Pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrate on Gould Plaza holding a Palestinian flag and a sign that reads “No more dollar sign for Israel’s crimes.”
Inside the Gaza Solidarity Encampment at NYU
A person stands on stage staring into the distance. They have dark hair and wear a black fur shawl.
For Hannah Weisz, performance is resistance
(Krish Dev for WSN)
Finding school spirit at NYU
Pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrate on Gould Plaza holding a Palestinian flag and a sign that reads “No more dollar sign for Israel’s crimes.”
Inside the Gaza Solidarity Encampment at NYU
(Krish Dev for WSN)
‘Gaza Solidarity Encampment’ becomes site of mass arrest at NYU
Two people run in front of the New York City skyline smiling.
NYU’s department of physical therapy hosts race to raise money for research
SLAM! at NYU celebrates the art of spoken word
SLAM! at NYU celebrates the art of spoken word
Mou Theatre brings together Mandarin-speaking theater enthusiasts at NYU
Mou Theatre brings together Mandarin-speaking theater enthusiasts at NYU
A woman hanging a Turkish flag on a curtain by a window at N.Y.U.'s Kimmel Center. Outside of the window is a red building.
Turkish NYU students commemorate 85 years since the death of republic founder
Barks in Tompkins Square Park: Annual Halloween Dog Parade returns
Barks in Tompkins Square Park: Annual Halloween Dog Parade returns
Rob Benevides applies a white wig to an actor wearing a prosthetic costume face.
An inside look at the art and design process of behind-the-scenes artists
The Sports Issue | Under the Arch Magazine
The Sports Issue | Under the Arch Magazine
An illustration of Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump, over a blue and red background.
The Election Issue | Under the Arch Magazine
Six models wearing all black, walking down a runway in a single-file line.
The Fashion Issue | Under the Arch Magazine
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Welcome home, class of 2028
The Housing Guide | Under the Arch Magazine
The Housing Guide | Under the Arch Magazine
SPONSORED: Navigating mental health as a student: How Mid City TMS can support you
SPONSORED: How do I sublet my apartment this summer?
New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News
New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News
Guru Ramanathan

Guru Ramanathan, Under the Arch Managing Editor

Guru Ramanathan is a senior in Tisch majoring in Dramatic Writing. Born in India, but living in Boston for most of his life, he was initially very confused by the lack of Dunkin’ Donuts in New York City but grew to love Starbucks’ hot chocolate. Guru lives and breathes film to the point where every other thing he says is probably a movie quote, and he was also a tennis and piano player for 10 years each. If you ever need to find him he will probably be writing something on the seventh floor of Bobst or the Dramatic Writing department’s half of the seventh floor in Tisch. Follow him on Instagram @i.am.gru and listen to his podcast, “The Passion Project.”

All content by Guru Ramanathan
Guru Ramanathan

Guru Ramanathan

Guru Ramanathan • May 7, 2020

I didn’t expect myself to spend my entire college career in the WSN basement, but perhaps that’s a virtue of choosing to graduate early. While I’ve been fortunate enough...

Housing Guide 2020

Housing Guide 2020

Guru Ramanathan, Under the Arch Managing Editor • February 20, 2020

Quantitative and Emotional: the Many Contradictions of Wayne Carino

Quantitative and Emotional: the Many Contradictions of Wayne Carino

The Wagner grad student and NYU Sustainability Fellow does what he calls “background work,” but has been instrumental in and out of NYU to provide environmental policy solutions for marginalized communities and developing countries.
Guru Ramanathan, Under the Arch Managing Editor • December 5, 2019

When Wayne Carino enters the NYU Office of Sustainability, he barely says a word to anyone before sitting down to work. Within minutes of coming into the office, he immediately...

Go Digital Or Go Home

Go Digital Or Go Home

As the presence of online journalism continues to grow, we must strive to use all forms of digital storytelling to our advantage.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • May 8, 2019

There is more than one way to tell a story. In the age of digital resources, social media and streaming, it is imperative that this notion is not just begrudgingly acknowledged...

Niri (Lima Das) making her feature debut in “Aamis.” (via Metanormal Motion Pictures)

‘Aamis’ Team on Their Flesh-Eating Romance at Tribeca

WSN sat down with the director, lead actress, producer and composers of the Assamese film.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • May 6, 2019

For all the surprises it holds, “Aamis,” writer and director Bhaskar Hazarika’s latest film, looks regrettably generic at first glance. A married clinician named Nirmali...

Erturk graduated from Tisch in 2016 and premiered his feature film debut at Tribeca. (via Cenk Erturk)

Tisch MFA Alum Cenk Ertürk’s Journey to Tribeca

WSN sits down with Tisch MFA alum Cenk Ertürk to talk about “Noah Land,” his feature debut at Tribeca.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • May 2, 2019

When Turkish immigrant Cenk Ertürk first set foot in the United States, he came with a dream of being a filmmaker despite having no formal education in the craft. Little did he...

A poster for the Lizzie McGuire Movie. (via wikimedia commons)

Staff Recs: Best Disney Channel Original Movies

We’ve talked about some of our favorite childhood Disney series, but let’s not forget how one of our favorite channels was churning out classic T.V. movies at this time as well.
Guru Ramanathan, Nicole Rosenthal, Claire Fishman and Melanie Pineda • April 18, 2019
We’ve talked about some of our favorite childhood Disney series, but let’s not forget how one of our favorite channels was churning out classic T.V. movies at this time as well.
The movie poster for Moonlight, an A24 film. (via A24)

Unpopular Opinion: A24 Films

Before you watch “Under the Silver Lake,” let’s revisit past A24 films and break down if they’re really as good as Tisch kids say they are.
Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan, Alex Cullina and Dante Sacco • April 16, 2019

Over the past few years, indie film studio A24 has taken over the independent movie zeitgeist, and certainly captured the love of the NYU community to the point where everyone...

Book cover of It's Kind of a Funny Story. (via Hyperion)

Unpopular Opinions: Young Adult Novels

The Arts Desk gives some fresh takes on novels for younger audiences.
Guru Ramanathan, Dante Sacco and Alex Cullina • April 9, 2019

A new young adult novel adaptation, “After,” hits theaters this weekend, and for once it’s not based on a book by John Green or Nicholas Sparks. But instead of needlessly...

Arts Issue | Spring 2019

Arts Issue | Spring 2019

Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • April 3, 2019

(Photo by Katie Peurrung)

Alexandra Muhawi-Ho | Arab-Chinese Filmmaker Seizes Freedom of Choice

Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • April 3, 2019

(On the left side, top to bottom) Fish Night, Beyond the Aquila Rift, Alternate Histories, (The right side, top to bottom), When the Yogurt Took Over, Three Robots, Zima Blue.(Courtesy of Netflix)

‘Love, Death & Robots’ Is Good, Great and Forgettable

From farmers fighting aliens in mech suits to a cup of yogurt taking over the world, the new Netflix anthology series can be an emotional rollercoaster.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • April 1, 2019

David Fincher helped bring Netflix’s popularity to new heights with the critically acclaimed “House of Cards,” one of the streaming service’s first big hits. He came back...

(via 20th Century Fox)

Unpopular Opinions: Animal Characters

No animals were harmed in the making of this list.
Guru Ramanathan, Dante Sacco and Alex Cullina • March 26, 2019

The live-action “Dumbo” remake comes out this week, and it got the Arts Desk thinking about the countless animal characters that have graced the silver screen, especially in...

Anupam Kher as "Oberoi" in director Anthony Maras' Hotel Mumbai, a Bleecker Street release. (Courtesy of Mark Rogers / Bleecker Street)

Anupam Kher on Tragedy and Compassion in ‘Hotel Mumbai’

The acclaimed Bollywood thespian spoke with WSN about playing a real-life character in his new film.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • March 25, 2019

Eleven years ago, the Indian metropolis of Mumbai was brought under siege by Pakistani terrorists in a deadly attack. A popular restaurant, two hospitals and the Taj Mahal Palace...

Paula Beer and Franz Rogowski star in the German drama “Transit”. (Courtesy of Music Box Films)

‘Transit’ Is a Bumpy Ride That Still Bores

Officially selected for the New York Film Festival and the Toronto International Film Festival, the German film is a fascinating character drama that is let down by a poor script.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • March 4, 2019

Like its title suggests, “Transit” is mobile, unable to find solace in any one mood, setting or genre, oscillating back and forth between being an interesting character drama,...

A still of Pete Holmes, from the HBO show Crashing. (Courtesy of Craig Blankenhorn)

Pete Holmes Talks ‘Crashing’ and Comedic Identity

Comedian, actor, writer, podcaster and producer Peter Holmes spoke with WSN about the new season of his HBO show “Crashing” and gave his thoughts on modern comedy.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • February 25, 2019

For Pete Holmes, the essence of comedy is truth. This is perhaps why he incorporated several real-life events, like how his ex-wife’s infidelity led him to pursue comedy, into...

Ellen DeGeneres hosted the 86th oscars. (via Youtube)

Unpopular Opinions: Oscar Hosts

The Arts Desk is tired of giving hot takes on snubs and surprises and have decided to critique a different aspect of awards shows: the hosts!
Guru Ramanathan, Claire Fishman, Alex Cullina, Nicole Rosenthal and Dante Sacco • February 20, 2019

Well, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences decided to forgo a host for this year’s Oscars, so what better way to ignore such a boring move than to celebrate the art...

Unpopular Opinions: Romantic Comedy Protagonists

Unpopular Opinions: Romantic Comedy Protagonists

Valentine's Day is coming up and the Arts Desk cannot wait! Thus, they’ve decided to critically analyze rom-coms in anticipation of the big day.
Guru Ramanathan, Claire Fishman, Alex Cullina and Nicole Rosenthal • February 13, 2019

People generally tend to fall on two extremes with romantic comedies: they either desperately want to love them or they consider the plots just too cheesy to be appreciated. A...

Danny DeVito in M&M's Super Bowl commercial. (via Facebook)

Unpopular Opinions: Super Bowl Commercials

In which the Arts Desk gives hot takes on what is the most important of the big game, anyway.
Guru Ramanathan, Nicole Rosenthal, Claire Fishman and Alex Cullina • February 6, 2019

The Super Bowl is one of the most watched TV broadcasts every year, but there is more than one reason hordes of fans tune in to watch teams lose to the Patriots year after year....

Jefferson Mays as Dr. George Hodel in “I Am The Night.” (Photo by Clay Enos, Courtesy of TNT)

Tony Winner Talks ‘I Am The Night’

WSN sits down with actor Jefferson Mays to talk about his role in TNT’s new limited series “I Am the Night,” co-starring Chris Pine.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • February 4, 2019

Jefferson Mays has been a storyteller his whole life. In his childhood, his family did not have a television set, so he and his parents would read books out loud to each other...

Chris Pine as reporter Jay Singletary in I AM THE NIGHT. Photo courtesy of TNT

‘I Am The Night’ Is A Few Steps Short of Success

TNT’s new neo-noir limited series is based off a fascinating true story, but isn’t the home run many hoped it would be in its first episode.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • January 30, 2019

Murder, mystery and conspiracies — all juicy elements that are necessary to concoct a pulpy noir. From film classics like “Double Indemnity” to contemporary series such...

via flickr.com

Unpopular Opinions: ‘Black Mirror’

The first spring 2019 edition of one of the Arts Desk’s acclaimed weekly series deals out hot takes on Netflix’s Emmy-winning sci-fi series.
Alex Cullina, Guru Ramanathan and Nicole Rosenthal • January 30, 2019

Technology in the 21st century: what’s not to love? From smartphones and supercomputers to virtual reality and artificial intelligence, technology has radically altered our way...

Karen (Anne Hathaway) brings turbulent tides to Baker Dill (Matthew McConaughey) as his past resurfaces in "Serenity." (Courtesy of Aviron Pictures)

‘Serenity’ Sunk by a Ludicrous Script

The Matthew McConaughey-Anne Hathaway starrer starts off as a fishing neo-noir and derails halfway through into a clumsy, existential thriller.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • January 29, 2019

Oscar-nominated director Steven Knight’s new film “Serenity” is a confounding experience, but not because it challenges the viewer on some profound, artistic level. From...

Concept Art by Lee Milby from the advanced short film "Cow-Boy," a drama about fraternity hazing (Courtesy of Bronson Aznavorian).

Funding Your Cinematic Dream

Tisch Film & TV seniors discuss crowdfunding thousands of dollars for their advanced short films.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • January 28, 2019

“The very fact that a movie gets made is a miracle,” the Chief Operating Officer of FilmNation Entertainment said to Tisch Film & TV senior Bronson Aznavorian during his...

Tom Schilling as painter Kurt Barnet. (Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics)

‘Never Look Away’ Paints an Expansive Portrait of Germany’s Art History

The celebrated German film finally expands into wide release in the United States on the heels of being nominated for two Oscars at the 91st Academy Awards.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • January 24, 2019

After watching his 188-minute period epic “Never Look Away” — loosely based on the life of German artist Gerhard Richter — two things became clear about German filmmaker...

Yakuts carrying wooly mammoth tusks on the New Siberian Islands. Courtesy of KimStim.

Sundance Documentary Winner ‘Genesis 2.0’ Hits IFC Center

A look into the making of Christian Frei’s documentary, which follows hunters in their search for dead wooly mammoths and scientists working to clone them.
Guru Ramanathan, Arts Editor • January 3, 2019

Every summer dozens of Yakutian men leave their homes to trek the remote New Siberian Islands in search of a unique treasure: wooly mammoth tusks. They desperately hack at the...

Yalitza Aparicio and Marco Graf in a scene from "Roma." (Courtesy of Netflix)

‘Roma’ Is Human — Simultaneously Moving and Frustrating

The 2018 Mexican Oscar entry is Alfonso Cuarón’s first film since winning an Oscar for directing “Gravity.”
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • December 3, 2018
The 2018 Mexican Oscar entry is Alfonso Cuarón’s first film since winning an Oscar for directing “Gravity.”
Will Ferrell as Buddy in "Elf," a classic Christmas film that promises to deliver laughs and holiday spirit year after year. (via facebook.com)

Staff Recs: Best Holiday Films

Ali Zimmerman, Daniella Nichinson, Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan and Alex Cullina • November 30, 2018

As November comes to an end and we recover from the pounds of turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce consumed at Thanksgiving, the holiday season begins to close in. Whether...

Unpopular Opinions: Actors

Unpopular Opinions: Actors

Daniella Nichinson, Guru Ramanathan, Nicole Rosenthal and Alex Cullina • November 28, 2018
Hot takes on Hollywood Hall-of-Famers.
A scene from the Palm d'Or-winning film "Shoplifters." (via facebook.com)

Cannes Favorite ‘Shoplifters’ Arrives at IFC Center

Hirokazu Kore-eda’s drama won the Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, and should be your next stop at the IFC Center.
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • November 26, 2018
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s drama won the Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, and should be your next stop at the IFC Center.
Viola Davis as the grieving Veronica Rawlings in heist thriller "Widows." (Courtesy of 20th Century Fox)

‘Widows’ Ranks Among the Best Heist Films

The follow up to his Oscar-winning “12 Years a Slave,” co-writer and director Steve McQueen returns with an arthouse heist thriller with the ensemble of the century
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • November 18, 2018
The follow up to his Oscar-winning “12 Years a Slave,” co-writer and director Steve McQueen returns with an arthouse heist thriller with the ensemble of the century
The cast of "A Fish Called Wanda." (via flickr.com)

Staff Recs: Best Film Ensembles

Every so often, a movie ensemble absolutely blows audiences away and makes us ask ourselves, “How can one movie could contain so much talent and power?”
Ryan Mikel, Daniella Nichinson, Guru Ramanathan and Alex Cullina • November 16, 2018
Every so often, a movie ensemble absolutely blows audiences away and makes us ask ourselves, “How can one movie could contain so much talent and power?”
Wyatt Russell in "Overlord." (via facebook.com)

‘Overlord’ Is an Amazing WWII B-Movie That Offers Zombies Too

Though advertised as a generic zombie flick, the J.J. Abrams-produced film is secretly a stellar World War II action-thriller flying under the radar.
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • November 12, 2018
Though advertised as a generic zombie flick, the J.J. Abrams-produced film is secretly a stellar World War II action-thriller flying under the radar.
From left to right, clockwise: “Lush” by Snail Mail, “Sounds of Silence” by Simon and Garfunkel, “Magic Potion” by The Black Keys and “Collection” by Soccer Mommy. (via spotify.com)

Staff Recs: Best Albums for Fall

Ryan Mikel, Daniella Nichinson, Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan, Alex Cullina and Ali Zimmerman • November 9, 2018

“Lush” by Snail Mail Ryan Mikel, Arts Editor I am not going to lie: I fell in love with the album “Lush” when I discovered Snail Mail early last spring. I was lucky...

Dennis Hopper in "Blue Velvet." (via twitter.com)

Staff Recs: Best Villains

Get your watch queue ready for the baddest villains of them all.
Ryan Mikel, Daniella Nichinson, Nicole Rosenthal, Ali Zimmerman, Guru Ramanathan and Alex Cullina • November 1, 2018
Get your watch queue ready for the baddest villains of them all.
Unpopular Opinions: Supernatural Villains

Unpopular Opinions: Supernatural Villains

This week we’re getting spooky niche with our unpopular opinions and taking a look at supernatural villains!
Daniella Nichinson, Ryan Mikel, Nicole Rosenthal, Alex Cullina and Guru Ramanathan • October 30, 2018

The spookiest day of the year is upon us: Halloween. All the ghosts and goblins come to play on this night of tricks and treats. Halloween is a pop culture phenomenon — the basis...

A promotional poster for the third season of "Daredevil." (via Facebook.com)

‘Daredevil’ Season 3 Is the Perfect Action Noir

Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • October 29, 2018
The latest season of "Daredevil" provides more over-the-top action and subtle drama than fans could have hoped for.
Shevaun Mizrahi, an NYU Master of Fine Arts graduate, spent six years filming her upcoming documentary “Distant Constellation” at a retirement home in Istanbul. (Photo courtesy of Shevaun Mizrahi)

The Six Years Behind a Tisch Grad’s Debut Film

Over a six-year process, Shevaun Mizrahi crafted a continuing emotional narrative in her debut film.
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • October 29, 2018
Over a six-year process, Shevaun Mizrahi crafted a continuing emotional narrative in her debut film.
John Travolta and Uma Thurman in a scene from "Pulp Fiction," which boasts one of the most iconic soundtracks in cinema history. (via facebook.com)

Staff Recs: Best Movie Soundtracks and Scores

Ryan Mikel, Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan, Daniella Nichinson and Alex Cullina • October 25, 2018
The release of "Mid90s" has reminded audiences of the importance of a great soundtrack. Check out WSN's top picks for best movie soundtracks and scores.
Illustration by Rachel Buigas-Lopez

Unpopular Opinions: Albums

Daniella Nichinson, Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan and Ali Zimmerman • October 23, 2018
Think you have a hot take on an underrated or overrated record? See how it holds up against WSN's picks in Unpopular Opinions: Albums edition.
Faraday Okoro winning $1 million grant at Tribeca Film Festival. (via facebook.com)

The Million Dollar Story of Faraday Okoro

Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • October 22, 2018
WSN talks to NYU MFA grad Faraday Okoro, inaugural winner of the AT&T and Tribeca Film Institute's "Untold Stories" prize, about his debut film "Nigerian Prince."
Masked serial killer Michael Meyers in "Halloween." (via facebook.com)

Staff Recs: Scariest Horror Movies

Ryan Mikel, Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan, Ali Zimmerman, Daniella Nichinson, Alex Cullina and Melanie Pineda • October 18, 2018
Halloween is creeping up, so here are our picks for Scariest Horror Movies to terrify you on a dark, lonely night.
Unpopular Opinions: 20th Century Authors

Unpopular Opinions: 20th Century Authors

Daniella Nichinson, Nicole Rosenthal, Guru Ramanathan, Ali Zimmerman, Alex Cullina and Ryan Mikel • October 16, 2018
The 20th century birthed a plethora of renowned authors, some overrated and some underrated. This week, the Arts Desk tackles Unpopular Opinions: 20th Century Authors.
Behind the Scenes With the NYU Mixtapes Preparing for Concert

Behind the Scenes With the NYU Mixtapes Preparing for Concert

Guru Ramanathan, Film Editor • October 12, 2018

The Mixtapes are one of NYU’s most popular a capella groups, currently led by Musical Director Sam Dhanraj, a senior in Steinhardt. They recently released their first single...

Greta Gerwig and Sam Levy on the set of "Lady Bird." (Courtesy of A24)

Staff Recs: Best Actors-Turned-Directors

Ryan Mikel, Guru Ramanathan, Daniella Nichinson, Ali Zimmerman and Nicole Rosenthal • October 11, 2018
With Bradley Cooper being the latest actor to try his hand at directing, here are our top picks for best actors turned directors.
(photographs by Katie Peurrung)

Hammerkatz

Sketches, Not Skits!
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • October 11, 2018

An extravagant businessman walks into a classroom to meet with his son’s elementary school teacher. The father is horrified to find out that his son has been flinging poop at...

Unpopular Opinions: Directors

Unpopular Opinions: Directors

Daniella Nichinson, Guru Ramanathan, Ryan Mikel and Nicole Rosenthal • October 9, 2018
Not all directors are created equal. Here are our thoughts on some underrated and overrated filmmakers.
Catherine Zeta-Jones as Velma Kelly in "Chicago."

Staff Recs: Hollywood Movie Musicals

Ryan Mikel, Daniella Nichinson, Alex Cullina, Guru Ramanathan and Ali Zimmerman • October 4, 2018
Celebrate the premiere of "A Star Is Born" with our personal picks for the best movie musicals.
Nina performing stand up

Tisch Alum Makes Her Debut With Hidden Gem ‘All About Nina’

Mary Elizabeth Winstead gives a magnetic performance as a damaged stand-up comedian.
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • October 2, 2018
Mary Elizabeth Winstead gives a magnetic performance as a damaged stand-up comedian.
Unpopular Opinions: Film & TV Protagonists

Unpopular Opinions: Film & TV Protagonists

Main characters we love to hate.
Ali Zimmerman, Guru Ramanathan, Daniella Nichinson and Alex Cullina • October 2, 2018

When it comes to central characters in film and TV, viewers can quickly develop deep, unshakable convictions. Everyone hates Joffrey. Everyone loves Daenerys. But what if you think...

Members of boy group *NSYNC.

Staff Recs: Best Early 2000s Jams

Connor Gatesman, Ryan Mikel, Nicole Rosenthal, Yasmin Gulec, Guru Ramanathan, Ali Zimmerman and Daniella Nichinson • September 27, 2018
Unabashedly indulge your bedazzled former self and rock out to these early 2000s hits.
Unpopular Opinions: Cinematic Classics

Unpopular Opinions: Cinematic Classics

Daniella Nichinson, Ali Zimmerman, Guru Ramanathan, Nicole Rosenthal, Alex Cullina and Ryan Mikel • September 25, 2018
Don't be shy about hating some of these classic films.
Still from the film "The Last Suit."

Friendship Is Everlasting in ‘The Last Suit’

Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • September 24, 2018
The beauty of friendship shines a warm light the daunting journey of a Jewish Holocaust survivor in "The Last Suit"
Kali Uchis and Tyler, The Creator in the "Perfect" music video.

Staff Recs: Best Songs To Fall In Love To

Fall is the season when everyone wants to find in love — here are the best songs to indulge your inner romantic.
Daniella Nichinson, Guru Ramanathan, Ali Zimmerman, Alex Cullina, Ryan Mikel and Nicole Rosenthal • September 20, 2018
Fall is the season when everyone wants to find in love — here are the best songs to indulge your inner romantic.
Richie Merritt and Matthew McConaughey in "White Boy Rick."

‘White Boy Rick’ Misfires

"White Boy Rick" delivers a scene-stealing performance by Matthew McConaughey, but fails to impress everywhere else.
Guru Ramanathan, Film & TV Editor • September 17, 2018
"White Boy Rick" delivers a scene-stealing performance by Matthew McConaughey, but fails to impress everywhere else.
Screenshots from some of the shows mentioned. From left to right: "Alex Strangelove," "Mudbound," "Ozark," "Nailed It!" and "Sacred Games."

Staff Recs: Best Netflix Originals

Netflix is the future of cinema and here's why.
Daniella Nichinson, Nicole Rosenthal, Melanie Pineda, Ryan Mikel, Alex Cullina and Guru Ramanathan • September 13, 2018
Netflix is the future of cinema and here's why.
Catherine Devine, a sophomore in CAS, dancing.

Fighting for Legitimacy, Ballerinas Resort to Rented Basements

Guru Ramanathan, Film Editor • September 10, 2018
WSN speaks to Camille Barbin and Catherine Devine, the faces behind the university's first ballet company, the NYU Ballet Collective.
Mia Goth and Dakota Johnson in a scene from "Suspiria."

Staff Recs: Our Most Anticipated Films of Fall 2018

Many of this fall's film releases are highly anticipated, but these are the ones we're looking forward to the most.
Ryan Mikel, Nicole Rosenthal, Daniella Nichinson, Ali Zimmerman, Guru Ramanathan and Matthew Holman • September 6, 2018
This fall's film releases are highly anticipated, but these are the ones we're looking forward to the most.
MoviePass recently overhauled its subscription service, upsetting some users.

MoviePass Failed but New Services Are on the Horizon

MoviePass gave us more than just a great bargain — it revived the moviegoing experience.
Guru Ramanathan, Film Editor • September 6, 2018
MoviePass gave us more than just a great bargain — it revived the moviegoing experience.
Tessa Thompson as Detroit in "Sorry to Both You."

Best of Summer Film

Guru Ramanathan, Film Editor • August 26, 2018
As summer winds down, relive some of the season's best and most memorable films.
Liv Hill in "Jellyfish."

Tribeca 2018: ‘Jellyfish’ Is a Valiant First Effort for James Gardner

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • April 30, 2018
If one were to judge James Gardner’s film “Jellyfish” on its synopsis, their initial assumptions may deceive them.
John Krasinksi in "A Quiet Place."

Staff Recs: Intelligent Horror Films

Ryan Mikel, Guru Ramanathan, Anubhuti Kumar, Tyler Crews, Alex Cullina and Alejandro Villa Vásquez • April 26, 2018
In honor of "A Quiet Place" getting a sequel and "Get Out" winning an Oscar, WSN has compiled a list of the most intelligent horror films for your viewing pleasure.
Zahraa Aldoujaili and Yara Aliadotter in "Amateurs."

Tribeca 2018: Swedish Film ‘Amateurs’ Is a Little Amateur

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • April 26, 2018
"Amateurs" tap into the heart of what makes filmmaking so special, as well as the struggles of the craft itself.
Poster for "Duck Butter," which premiered at Tribeca Film Festival this past week.

Tribeca 2018: ‘Duck Butter’ Is Experimental Intimacy

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • April 24, 2018
Miguel Arteta’s dramedy “Duck Butter” is bold, beautiful and absurd.
Over 200,000 rape kits remain untested in the U. S.

Untested Rape Kits Exposed in ‘I Am Evidence’

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • April 17, 2018
“I Am Evidence" explores the horrifying reality that there are over 200 thousand and counting untested rape kits in the United States.
Diversity: Hollywood’s Two-Way Street

Diversity: Hollywood’s Two-Way Street

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • April 4, 2018
The 90th Academy Awards was meant to be an extraordinary event for various reasons. Film in 2017 seemed to represent the gradual shift in America’s culture.
Heather (Zoë Kravitz) at a karaoke bar in Aaron Katz's GEMINI.

‘Gemini’ Is a Sexy Yet Surface Neo-Noir

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • March 29, 2018
Aaron Katz’s newest film “Gemini” boasts a glossy visual aesthetic and strong performances from Zoë Kravitz and Lola Kirke.
Marion Cotillard stars in Arnaud Desplechin’s new film “Ismael’s Ghosts."

The Ambitious and Ambiguous ‘Ismael’s Ghosts’

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • March 26, 2018
Arnaud Desplechin’s “Ismael’s Ghosts” is a harrowing tale of loss and filmmaking. It opened Friday, March 23 at Quad Cinema.
Richard Levine’s "Submission", starring Stanley Tucci, explores the topic of sexual harassment on college campuses.

Tucci Shines But ‘Submission’ Falls Flat

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • March 7, 2018
In his newest film “Submission,” writer and director Richard Levine’s tries to explore the topic of sexual harassment on college campuses.
A scene from the 1992 Disney film Aladdin.

Live-Action ‘Aladdin’ Controversy Casts Shadow on ‘Black Panther’

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • February 13, 2018
If you were ready to applaud Disney for its efforts towards casting minorities on “Black Panther,” its upcoming “Aladdin” live-action remake says otherwise.
Miraculously restored from the original cut of film, “The Passion of Joan of Arc” tells the story of the fabled warrior Joan in her last hours.

Beautiful Classic ‘The Passion of Joan of Arc’ is Restored to Life

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • November 29, 2017
The classic "The Passion of Joan of Arc" has been brought back to life at the Film Forum.
Theater release for Louis C.K.’s film “I Love You, Daddy” was cancelled all across the country after allegations of sexual misconduct.

Life Imitates Art in ‘I Love You, Daddy’

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • November 13, 2017
Louis C.K.'s new film "I Love You, Daddy" is seen in new light with recent allegations of sexual misconduct.
“Destination Unknown” tells the story of holocaust survivors as they try to find the light in a world filled with darkness. The film hits screens Nov. 10th.

A Powerful Portrait of the Holocaust

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • November 8, 2017
Claire Ferguson takes a new approach at examining the Holocaust in her new documentary "Destination Unknown."
“Thelma” follows the character of Eili Harboe as she experiences the supernatural.

Supernatural Lesbian Film Thrills

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • November 6, 2017
"Thelma" is a Norwegian supernatural thriller that delves into sexuality, religion and the supernatural.
“My Friend Dahmer” follows the story of main character Jeffrey Dahmer in his late high school years and the events that eventually led him to become a serial killer. It is set to hit theaters on Nov. 3rd.

Ross Lynch Trades Disney For Dahmer

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • October 30, 2017
Ross Lynch transforms into one of America's most famous serial killers in Marc Meyers' newest film, "My Friend Dahmer."
Félicité is a free-willed woman working as a singer in a bar in Kinshasa. Her life is thrown into turmoil when her 14-year-old son gets into a terrible car accident and in order to raise money to save him, she sets out on a breakneck race through the streets of electric Kinshasa – a world of music and dreams.

‘Félicité’ is a Musical Beauty

Guru Ramanathan, Staff Writer • October 23, 2017
"Félicité," Senegal's submission for the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, tells a poignant story of motherhood, music and the struggle for equality.
“Victoria & Abdul” is a comedy-drama film based on real life relationship between Queen Victoria and her Indian servant Abdul Karim.

‘Victoria & Abdul’ Lacks Depth

Guru Ramanathan, Contributing Writer • September 18, 2017
"Victoria & Abdul" is a period drama like no other; exploring the platonic relationship between two unlike characters with glimpses of humor.
Dayveon explores the life of gangsters with the aim of being a coming of age story.

‘Dayveon’ Shows Promise, But Lacks Strength in Its Characters

Guru Ramanathan, Contributing Writer • September 12, 2017
"Dayveon," written, produced, directed (and everything else) by debut filmmaker Amman Abbasi, is a coming-of-age gangster film about innocence and loss.