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

Washington Square News
(Joshua Plutchik for WSN)
Former employee sues NYU for religious discrimination
(Ray Qian for WSN)
NYU Abu Dhabi partners with Emirati tech company to further 6G research
(Courtesy of Nicolas Manassi)
Wagner dean on stepping down, returning as a faculty member
NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering campus at Brooklyn Commons in 2022. (Samson Tu for WSN)
Faculty and staff talk merging computer science depts. in Tandon, CAS
NYU purchases Hebrew Union College building for over $75 million
A cardboard sign taped to a metal barricade with the words “WE DO NOT ENGAGE WITH ZIONISTS! WE KEEP EACH OTHER SAFE!”
‘A chilling effect’: Conduct guidelines cast shadow of concern over faculty
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.
People rally in front of NYU Langone’s Tisch Hospital, Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, in New York. (Danny Arensberg for WSN)
Over 1,000 call on NYU Langone to continue providing gender-affirming care for children
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
(Ray Qian for WSN)
NYU Abu Dhabi partners with Emirati tech company to further 6G research
(Courtesy of Nicolas Manassi)
Wagner dean on stepping down, returning as a faculty member
NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering campus at Brooklyn Commons in 2022. (Samson Tu for WSN)
Faculty and staff talk merging computer science depts. in Tandon, CAS
NYU purchases Hebrew Union College building for over $75 million
(Alana Beyer for WSN)
ICE agency cancels interviews at NYU Law career fair amid backlash from 1,000-plus students
(Danny Arensberg for WSN)
Dozens protest onslaught of pro-Palestinian student suspensions
(Samson Tu for WSN)
Admin responds to nonprofit criticizing updated student conduct policy
(Danny Arensberg for WSN)
‘Collective punishment’: NYU suspends 13 students after pro-Palestinian sit-in
People picket in front of a red building with signs reading "DIVEST FROM GENOCIDE," "ARREST NYU TRUSTEES" and "CLASS OF 1972."
Protesters condemn NYU sanctions against students and faculty, demand divestment
A cardboard sign taped to a metal barricade with the words “WE DO NOT ENGAGE WITH ZIONISTS! WE KEEP EACH OTHER SAFE!”
‘A chilling effect’: Conduct guidelines cast shadow of concern over faculty
(Courtesy of Television Academy)
Beyond NYU: Shaping films and shows frame by frame
(Courtesy of Madi Kaplan)
Beyond NYU: Mixing acting with activism
(Courtesy of Chelsea Kyle)
Beyond NYU: Shaking up the restaurant industry one article at a time
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
(Alex Woodworth for WSN)
Opinion: Campus conversations must include all voices
(Kyra Reilley for WSN)
Editorial: NYU, step up
What to do if stopped by ICE
What to do if stopped by ICE
Editorial: NYU’s disciplinary measures against students are reckless and reactive
Editorial: NYU’s disciplinary measures against students are reckless and reactive
(Alex Woodworth for WSN)
Guest Essay: In protest of NYU Langone
(Kyra Reilley for WSN)
Editorial: NYU, step up
Editorial: NYU’s disciplinary measures against students are reckless and reactive
Editorial: NYU’s disciplinary measures against students are reckless and reactive
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.
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
A four panel illustration of four different people drawn in a monochrome purple pallet.
Off-Third: NYU released their shortlist for consultants on ‘institutional restraint.’ You won’t believe who’s on it.
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
An illustration of a woman screaming and text that reads “STAFF RANTS.”
Staff Rants: Post-election feelings
An illustration of a black megaphone that reads ‘STAFF RANTS’ in white letters. There are black and white lines coming out of the megaphone. The background is red.
Staff Rants: Springing in and out of spring
An illustration of a black megaphone that reads ‘STAFF RANTS’ in white letters. There are black and white lines coming out of the megaphone. The background is red.
Staff Rants: New beginnings or old complaints?
An illustration of a megaphone with the phrase “Staff Rants” written on it. The megaphone wears a red Santa hat and the background is white with blue snowflakes.
Staff Rants: Holiday Overload
An illustration of a purple and orange megaphone that reads ‘STAFF RANTS’ in green letters. There are purple and green lines coming out of the megaphone. The background is black.
Staff Rants: Spooky season
(Kiran Komanduri for WSN)
The architect of a dynasty: How the NYU women’s basketball coach built the team into a powerhouse
Staff Reacts: Super Bowl LIX
Staff Reacts: Super Bowl LIX
(Kyra Reilley for WSN)
Men’s basketball buzzer-beater win, women’s basketball 50th straight victory and other news
NYU ice hockey honors 2015 national championship team
NYU ice hockey honors 2015 national championship team
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Out of Bounds: Major sports news out of the UK, Washington, D.C. and Italy
(Kyra Reilley for WSN)
Men’s basketball buzzer-beater win, women’s basketball 50th straight victory and other news
An illustration of bold white text that says “Weekly Sports Update” on a purple background with light purple flowers.
Soccer and volleyball begin UAA conference play, top finishes for both cross country teams and other news
Women’s tennis player wins championship, men’s soccer score double digits and other news
Women’s tennis player wins championship, men’s soccer score double digits and other news
An illustration of bold white text that says “Weekly Sports Update” on a purple background with light purple flowers.
Women’s golf places third, women’s soccer remains undefeated and other news
An illustration of bold white text that says “Weekly Sports Update” on a purple background with light purple flowers.
Golf and tennis kick off seasons, men’s soccer suffers first loss and other news
(Levi Langley for WSN)
In the Huddle: Janie Cooper on her yearlong racing season
(Sidney Snider for WSN)
In the Huddle: Connor Vincent on his collegiate swimming career
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
A woman in a white shirt stands in front of a dark background.
In the Huddle: Maria Stamos on fencing at NYU and competing at the international level
A medic applies a black bandage to an N.Y.U. wrestler crouched on the ground in a purple leotard that reads “VIOLETS.”
In the Huddle: Trent Furman on his 100th career win and experience as a Violet
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Out of Bounds: Major sports news out of the UK, Washington, D.C. and Italy
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Out of Bounds: Major sports news out of London, Washington, D.C. and Sydney
An illustration of an outline of a referee yelling “OUT OF BOUNDS” with three buildings behind him.
Out of Bounds: Major sports news out of Accra, London and Madrid
A purple illustration of a referee yelling “OUT OF BOUNDS” in a speech bubble with the Big Ben tower, a tower from Madrid and the United States Capitol building behind him. The referee holds a purple whistle.
Out of Bounds: Major sports news out of London, D.C. and Madrid
A purple illustration of a person shouting “OUT OF BOUNDS" while holding a big whistle. Behind the person is Big Ben, the Berlin TV Tower and Puerto Madero's Puente de la Mujer footbridge.
Out of Bounds: Major sports news out of Buenos Aires, London and Berlin
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Flying Solo’s 4th show at NYFW reinvents fashion basics
(Kiara Mujica and Kyra Reilley for WSN)
A guide to Valentine’s Day gifts by NYU school
(Kiran Komanduri for WSN)
Michael DePaulo returns to NYFW with an entourage of futuristic florals
How NYU students celebrated Lunar New Year
How NYU students celebrated Lunar New Year
For these fashion vendors, vintage never goes out of style
For these fashion vendors, vintage never goes out of style
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Flying Solo’s 4th show at NYFW reinvents fashion basics
(Kiran Komanduri for WSN)
Michael DePaulo returns to NYFW with an entourage of futuristic florals
For these fashion vendors, vintage never goes out of style
For these fashion vendors, vintage never goes out of style
(Andrea Lui for WSN)
Walter Van Beirendonck brings aliens to Earth at Paris Fashion Week
(Allina Xiao for WSN)
Kidill delivers drums, dance and brilliant punk chaos to Paris Fashion Week
Cooking up suburban escape
Cooking up suburban escape
(Suditi Sircar for WSN)
Love at first bite: The best recipes for Valentine’s Day
(Julia Smerling for WSN)
Ranked: Lunchly
(Mariana Arboleda for WSN)
Is reviving diner culture heroic or corrupt?
(Alex Woodworth for WSN)
5 soups to help you combat the winter cold
How NYU students celebrated Lunar New Year
How NYU students celebrated Lunar New Year
(Mariana Arboleda for WSN)
This Stern club highlights minority voices in the world of finance
(Lianna O’Grady for WSN)
Welcoming Lunar New Year in a new home
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
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
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Flying Solo’s 4th show at NYFW reinvents fashion basics
(Kiran Komanduri for WSN)
Michael DePaulo returns to NYFW with an entourage of futuristic florals
(Andrea Lui for WSN)
Walter Van Beirendonck brings aliens to Earth at Paris Fashion Week
(Allina Xiao for WSN)
Kidill delivers drums, dance and brilliant punk chaos to Paris Fashion Week
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
(Ivy Chan for WSN)
80WSE’s latest exhibition explores a better society through fashion
(Charlotte Nichols for WSN)
Review: From the battles to the bedroom, ‘Onyx Storm’ was rushed and unsatisfying
(Courtesy of Nick Mora)
Interview: Musician Brent de la Cruz on the importance of collaboration and inspiration
(Kiara Mujica for WSN)
Books beyond Bobst: Essays about the ’60s, stories about body horror and more
(Courtesy of IMDb)
Review: The future of dating is bleak in ‘Companion’
(Charlotte Nichols for WSN)
Review: From the battles to the bedroom, ‘Onyx Storm’ was rushed and unsatisfying
(Kiara Mujica for WSN)
Books beyond Bobst: Essays about the ’60s, stories about body horror and more
The 5 most anticipated reads of 2025
The 5 most anticipated reads of 2025
(Kyra Reilley for WSN)
5 budget-friendly ways to consume books
(Allina Xiao for WSN)
Books beyond Bobst: An Irish novella, a historical fantasy book and more
(Courtesy of IMDb)
Review: The future of dating is bleak in ‘Companion’
(Courtesy of Atlas Media Corp, A Zeitgeist Films Release in Association with Kino Lorber)
Review: ‘Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story’ brings us the unseen stories of the showbiz icon
(Courtesy of IMDb)
10 movies to look out for in 2025
(Courtesy of IMDb)
The case for ‘The Brutalist’
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)
Remembering David Lynch: A legacy of dreams, oddities and love
(Courtesy of Nick Mora)
Interview: Musician Brent de la Cruz on the importance of collaboration and inspiration
10 guilty pleasure albums that we unapologetically love
(Courtesy of Dualtone Records)
Review: Flipturn’s ‘Burnout Days’ explores the tension between youth and stress
(Courtesy of Warner Records)
Review: ‘I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2)’ falls saccharine and stale
(Courtesy of 88rising)
​​Review: Knock2’s ‘nolimit’ is a bright and boisterous collection of bangers
(Courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company)
Review: In ‘English,’ the fight to learn a new language perseveres
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
(Ivy Chan for WSN)
80WSE’s latest exhibition explores a better society through fashion
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
NYU Dining Halls: Farm-to-Table Eats!
Cartoon: An ode to Albert
Cartoon: An ode to Albert
(Anna Baird-Hassell, Alex Woodworth, Isabel Albors, and Rachel Ning for WSN)
On the Street: Winter break
(Alex Woodworth for WSN)
Students protest Trump presidency with march on campus
In the panel titled Tisch, a girl with long braided hair, alternative clothing and round glasses types on a computer with sheets of paper flying around her. Her eyes are swirls and her expression is panicked as she says, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have a 73-page play due tomorrow!” In the panel titled Stern, a man with short dark hair and rectangular glasses wears a suit saying, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have 500+ LinkedIn connections due tomorrow…” He holds a phone with a symbol of people and the number 500 while people shake hands in the background. In the panel titled Gallatin, a boy with wavy brown hair and goggles holds ropes while saying, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have to weave a basket underwater tomorrow.” Another dialogue line reads “Yeah, that’s my concentration…” next to drawings of fish and baskets. In the panel titled Steinhardt, a girl with curly blonde hair and freckles stares at a phone while various electronic devices are scattered in the background including a phone with a caller ID saying “Kiara & Allina.” In a dialogue bubble she says, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have to communicate tomorrow.” In the panel titled Tandon a boy with round glasses, a puffer vest, a quarter-zip sweater and dyed purple hair says, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have a robot due tomorrow!” Behind him is a robot holding a sandwich on a plate saying “YUMMY,” a laptop on a desk displaying “Chat G.P.T.” and a blackboard with various diagrams in white chalk. In the panel titled C.A.S. is a girl wearing a white lab coat and goggles over a pink shirt and saying, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have to write an essay on bird migration in Ancient Greece due tomorrow!” She holds an open book while plucking a leaf off of an overhead branch with forceps, facing away from a desk where a beaker of green liquid overflows.
Cartoon: NYU during finals is just so … unique
NYU Dining Halls: Farm-to-Table Eats!
Cartoon: An ode to Albert
Cartoon: An ode to Albert
In the panel titled Tisch, a girl with long braided hair, alternative clothing and round glasses types on a computer with sheets of paper flying around her. Her eyes are swirls and her expression is panicked as she says, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have a 73-page play due tomorrow!” In the panel titled Stern, a man with short dark hair and rectangular glasses wears a suit saying, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have 500+ LinkedIn connections due tomorrow…” He holds a phone with a symbol of people and the number 500 while people shake hands in the background. In the panel titled Gallatin, a boy with wavy brown hair and goggles holds ropes while saying, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have to weave a basket underwater tomorrow.” Another dialogue line reads “Yeah, that’s my concentration…” next to drawings of fish and baskets. In the panel titled Steinhardt, a girl with curly blonde hair and freckles stares at a phone while various electronic devices are scattered in the background including a phone with a caller ID saying “Kiara & Allina.” In a dialogue bubble she says, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have to communicate tomorrow.” In the panel titled Tandon a boy with round glasses, a puffer vest, a quarter-zip sweater and dyed purple hair says, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have a robot due tomorrow!” Behind him is a robot holding a sandwich on a plate saying “YUMMY,” a laptop on a desk displaying “Chat G.P.T.” and a blackboard with various diagrams in white chalk. In the panel titled C.A.S. is a girl wearing a white lab coat and goggles over a pink shirt and saying, “Sorry, I can't go out tonight, I have to write an essay on bird migration in Ancient Greece due tomorrow!” She holds an open book while plucking a leaf off of an overhead branch with forceps, facing away from a desk where a beaker of green liquid overflows.
Cartoon: NYU during finals is just so … unique
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
Cartoon: Time is Ticking
Cartoon: Time is Ticking
An aerial view of an autumn field with a runway and body of water, with factories and suburbs on the left.
How to legally fly a drone in NYC
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
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
Kaylee DeFreitas

Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Managing Editor

Kaylee DeFreitas is a senior (Yikes!) majoring in Journalism and Educational Theatre with a minor in Irish Studies. When she isn’t writing for WSN, you can find her watching “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” doing embroidery and taking care of her plants. Born and raised in New Jersey, she will fight anyone who says Central Jersey doesn’t exist or calls a pork roll sandwich a taylor ham. Follow her and say hi on Twitter and Instagram at @kaylee_defre.

All content by Kaylee DeFreitas
Movies like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro will transport you to new places without leaving the comfort of your bedroom. As the nights get colder and longer, the Washington Square News staff wants to make sure you have great movies to watch. (Staff Illustration by Chandler Littleford)

Staff Recs: Comfort Movies

Sometimes when the outside world becomes too much, a good movie is the best form of escapism.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Ana Cubas, Sasha Cohen and Nicolas Pedrero-Setzer • September 23, 2020

“Fiddler on the Roof” by Norman Jewison Sasha Cohen, Arts Editor My grandma and I sing “If I Were a Rich Man” a lot. What can I say? We just love practicing our “biddy...

(From left) Pete Davidson and director Judd Apatow with crew members on the set of "The King of Staten Island." (Photo by Kevin Mazur / Courtesy of Universal Pictures)

Judd Apatow Finds the Humor in Grief in ‘The King of Staten Island’

Judd Apatow talks to WSN about grief, heroism and his new film, “The King of Staten Island.”
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • June 10, 2020

Judd Apatow has always found himself drawn to stories of underdogs. From working on “Freaks and Geeks,” the TV show about high school misfits, to his directorial debut “The...

Directed and co-written by Annie Silverstein, “Bull” centers around 14-year-old Kris who discovers a passion for bull riding with mentor Abe Turner. “Bull” was released last week and was meant to be screened at SXSW. (Photo courtesy of Samuel Goldwyn Films)

‘Bull’ Offers an Intimate Glimpse Into Rodeo Life

Annie Silverstein’s intimate narrative brings intense realism and powerful performances that make the film worth watching.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • May 3, 2020

From the beginning of Annie Silverstein’s “Bull,” it is apparent that Kris (Amber Havard) has become resigned to her circumstances. The adults around her show her little...

Online gift cards, donations, live streams and more are still viable options during this time. The WSN Arts desk lists some ways you can still support independent artists from a safe social distance. (Staff Illustration by Charlie Dodge)

How to Support New York’s Vibrant Independent Arts Scene

Even though New York is on pause, that doesn’t mean you still can’t support your favorite local bookstore or movie theater from home.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Ethan Zack, Fareid El Gafy, Sasha Cohen, Ashley Wu and Nicolas Pedrero-Setzer • March 23, 2020

One week ago, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio ordered New York City movie theaters to shut down as part of many initiatives to hopefully “flatten the curve.” Earlier in...

The annual Tribeca film festival since 2002 hosted in Manhattan shows a wide variety of independent films. The festival has now been cancelled due to COVID-19. (Illustration by Cicek Erel)

Tribeca Film Festival Postponed Due to Coronavirus

Yet another film festival has fallen to the coronavirus pandemic. Tribeca Film Festival, which normally runs during the month of April in New York City, announced its decision to postpone.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • March 12, 2020

The Tribeca Film Festival made an announcement on their website this Thursday, stating that due to the coronavirus and New York Governor Cuomo banning gatherings of over 500 people...

The lost boys race up a slope behind Peter Pan, played by Yashua Mack. Ben Zeitlin’s “Wendy” gives a unique new look at the classic Peter Pan story. (Photo Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures and Samantha Fetner)

A Seven-Year Journey To Neverland

Oscar-nominated director and writer Benh Zeitlin returns with his second feature film “Wendy,” a new take on the classic “Peter Pan.”
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • March 2, 2020

From a young age, director/writer Benh Zeitlin and his sister Eliza were captivated by the tale of Peter Pan, a boy who would never grow up.  “We were for some reason terrified...

“Portrait of a Lady on Fire” is now playing in cinemas. The film explores the blossoming relationship between two women in the 18th century. (Staff Photo by Kaylee DeFreitas)

‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’: A Masterful Exploration of Love

The Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Screenplay Winner is a stunning portrayal of love through the gaze of an artist.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • February 18, 2020

The Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Screenplay Winner is a stunning portrayal of love through the gaze of an artist. A group of women hum different notes around a fire....

In the mood for love? WSN recommends some Valentine singles you may have missed this week.(Illustration by Rachel Buigas-Lopez)

Staff Recs: Valentine’s Day Edition

The Arts Desk recommends the best films, music and galleries for you to enjoy this Valentine’s Day.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Ethan Zack, Sasha Cohen, Nicolas Pedrero-Setzer, Ashley Wu and Fareid El Gafy • February 14, 2020

Ashley Wu, Deputy Arts Editor  Even though Valentine’s Day was invented by Hallmark to sell greeting cards, let’s try to forget about capitalism for a second and celebrate...

A poster of the stars of And Then We Danced, Sweden’s Oscar submission at the Cannes Film Festival. The film, set in Georgia, tells a compelling coming-of-age story of young dancers and serves as the director’s tribute to his heritage. (Staff Photo by Kaylee DeFreitas)

‘And Then We Danced’ Shows the Freedom Within the Language of Dance

A Georgian coming-of-age story that uses dance as a way to communicate words left unsaid.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • February 10, 2020

Sweden’s Oscar submission opened to buzz at the Cannes Film Festival, but in Georgia, the country the film is set in, it opened to intense protest. Due to the LGBTQ+ content...

The Russian drama is now playing at the Film Forum on Houston St. (Staff photo by Kaylee DeFreitas)

In ‘Beanpole’ Peacetime is Anything But

Russia’s Oscar entry for Best International Feature focuses on the bond between two women as they try to seek ways to heal from the traumas of war.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Arts Editor • February 3, 2020

When war is over, is there ever peace? What happens to those most affected? How do they go back to the lives they had before the war? All these are questions posed by the film...

Six Steps Towards Sustainability

Six Steps Towards Sustainability

Sustainability can be hard, but have no fear: with these six easy steps you will be on your way to achieving your green goals in no time.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Arts Editor • December 5, 2019

Many assume that going green also involves spending a lot of money, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Instead of throwing away old glass jars that used to hold salsa, save...

A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood, directed by Marielle Heller, is a story based on the real-life friendship between journalist Tom Junod and television star Fred Rogers. (Via Facebook)

‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’ is a Lesson in Forgiveness and Healing

The new film about children’s television icon Mr. Rogers is a touching tribute to how one man’s kindness helped shape the life of someone in need.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Arts Editor • November 25, 2019

How should we deal with anger? Why do we hold onto it instead of attempting forgiveness, hard as forgiveness may be? How can we begin to constructively deal with feelings holding...

From "Mamma Mia!" to "Joker", the Arts Desk recommends several last-minute, movie-inspired costumes for Halloween. (via Warner Bros)

Staff Recs: Halloween Costumes

Scrambling to put together a last-minute Halloween costume? The Arts Desk has you covered with these costumes based on characters from some of our favorite movies.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Ethan Zack, Fareid El Gafy and Julie Goldberg • October 24, 2019

Donna Sheridan from “Mamma Mia!” (the movie version) Be the ultimate dancing queen this Halloween in your very own Donna Sheridan costume from “Mamma Mia!” Halloween...

Jojo Rabbit is a satire movie about Nazi Germany now playing in limited release. (via Fox Searchlight Pictures)

‘Jojo Rabbit’: Not Your Typical Coming-of-Age Story

Taika Waititi’s latest film satirizes the Third Reich with comedy and heart, but lacks the teeth to say anything truly profound.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Arts Editor • October 20, 2019

Most children have an imaginary friend growing up. For Jojo, that imaginary friend just so happens to be Adolf Hitler. The film follows 10-year-old Jojo (Roman Griffin Davis),...

A New Champion in the Fight for Tech Equitability

A New Champion in the Fight for Tech Equitability

Ashley Jane Lewis has made great strides in the new media art world, and she doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Arts Editor • October 16, 2019

When asked about the one thing she wants people to take away from her work, Tisch graduate student Ashley Jane Lewis splits the question into two categories: art and education....

Hustlers, starring Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu, is an empowering film that broke traditional barriers in Hollywood. (via Facebook)

‘Hustlers’ Is the Female-Driven Crime Drama Everyone Has Been Waiting For

“Hustlers,” featuring Constance Wu and Jennifer Lopez, tells the unbelievable true story of a group of strippers-turned-criminal-masterminds who take on Wall Street. Originally featured in New York Magazine, their story has now hit the big screen in a film full of female empowerment.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Arts Editor • September 16, 2019

Drugging Wall Street men with a mix of MDMA and ketamine and making them max out their credit cards on booze in strip clubs? It may sound crazy — it sure sounded that way to...

Staff Rants & Raves: Textures

Staff Rants & Raves: Textures

Some things are fun to touch, and some things aren’t — it’s not too complicated. Let our staff tell you why.
Lauren Gruber, Anna-Dmitry Muratova, Victor Porcelli, Melanie Pineda, Abby Hofstetter, Kaylee DeFreitas and Sam Brinton • September 10, 2019

Staff Rants On Manicures By Lauren Gruber, Deputy Culture Editor Let me preface this by saying I love getting my nails done. I love not being able to use my phone for thirty...

Larry David at a film festival in 2009. (Via Wikimedia)

Unpopular Opinions: Unconventionally Hot Girl Summer

The Arts Desk weighs in on some underrated hotties in the entertainment industry.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Ethan Zack, Fareid El Gafy, Claire Fishman and Julie Goldberg • September 9, 2019

Hot Girl Summer is ending and with so many unconventionally attractive additions to the Hot Girl Summer canon (Lizzo, Billie Eilish, Beto O’Rourke), we at the Arts Desk thought...

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Is Netflix’s Next Step a Deep Dive Into the Film Industry?

It would appear that Netflix is beginning to make the full commitment to film distribution by appeasing critics. Is this change due to the big-name stars or is there another reason?
Kaylee DeFreitas, Deputy Arts Editor • September 3, 2019

As awards season approaches, more films are beginning their campaigns in hopes of an Oscar. Meanwhile, the debate over whether streaming services’ films should be considered...

Former Rolling Stone bassist Bill Wyman pictured with instrument. (via Susan Norget Film Promotion)

‘The Quiet One’ Tells a Rock Star’s Life Story Through His Own Archives

The documentary focuses on Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman, who built his own archives throughout his career.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Staff Writer • May 2, 2019

Sitting alone amid piles of cameras, photos, videos and more, Bill Wyman begins to give the audience a trip through the archives he has built across five decades. The former Rolling...

A still from the documentary “Framing John DeLorean,” which had its world premiere last night at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film, which focuses on the automobile titan’s involvement in a cocaine scandal, uses a unique blend of narrative techniques to tell DeLorean’s story. (via Sundance Selects)

‘Framing John DeLorean’ Attempts to Capture the Man Behind the Name

The new documentary — which premiered last night at the Tribeca Film Festival — is the first film to tell the story of the auto executive’s involvement in a multi-million dollar cocaine smuggling scandal.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Staff Writer • April 30, 2019

When you hear the name DeLorean, what do you think of? “Back to the Future?” The car itself? Cocaine scandals? No matter what image the name conjures, many people have something...

Wendell Pierce as a preacher "Burning Cane" (via Susan Norget Film Promotion)

Presenting the Youngest Director in Tribeca Film Festival History

At age 19, Tisch first-year Phillip Youmans is the youngest director in history to have a feature film premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Staff Writer • April 29, 2019

For most people, junior year of high school consists of hustling to maintain their GPA, gearing up for college applications, hanging out with friends and dreaming about prom. Phillip...

Julianne Moore starring in the 2018 film Gloria Bell. (Courtesy of A24)

‘Gloria Bell’ Gets the Remake Game Right

Julianne Moore shines in the quirky romance ‘Gloria Bell,’ a remake of an Oscar-nominated Chilean film.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Staff Writer • March 4, 2019

From its opening shot, “Gloria Bell” fulfills its intentions effectively and fearlessly. In a room full of people, the titular character (Julianne Moore) seemingly blends in...

Bengt Ekerot and Max von Sydow in "The Seventh Seal," playing a chess match of life and death. (Courtesy of Nico Chapin [CMPR])

‘The Seventh Seal’ Is Revitalized at Film Forum

Kaylee DeFreitas, Staff Writer • December 5, 2018
Ingmar Bergman’s iconic film is revived in new 4K restoration.
Bryan Cranston in "Network," an adaptation of the 1976 film. (Courtesy of the National Theatre)

‘Network’ Is a Genius Adaptation of the Film

This new play featuring Breaking Bad star Bryan Cranston hopes to find the same success it had on the West End on Broadway.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Contributing Writer • December 3, 2018
This new play featuring Breaking Bad star Bryan Cranston hopes to find the same success it had on the West End on Broadway.
Stills of Willem Dafoe as Vincent Van Gogh for the "At Eternity's Gate" review running tonight. (Courtesy of CBS Films)

‘At Eternity’s Gate’ Is a Masterful Portrayal of Van Gogh’s Final Years

Academy Award-nominated actor Willem Dafoe has been receiving critical acclaim ever since the film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Staff Writer • November 20, 2018
Academy Award-nominated actor Willem Dafoe has been receiving critical acclaim ever since the film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival.
Theodore Pellerin and Lucas Hedges in "Boy Erased." (Courtesy of Focus Features)

‘Boy Erased’ Depicts the Jarring Realities of Gay Conversion Therapy

Based on a true story, the Oscar hopeful is one of two dramas this year that focuses on gay conversion therapy.
Kaylee DeFreitas, Contributing Writer • November 5, 2018
Based on a true story, the Oscar hopeful is one of two dramas this year that focuses on gay conversion therapy.
Cory Michael Smith in a still from "1985." Courtesy of 1985thefilm.com

‘1985’: A Gripping and Private View into the AIDS Epidemic

Kaylee DeFreitas • October 29, 2018

Based on his short film of the same name, Yen Tan’s “1985” follows Adrian (Cory Michael Smith) as he visits home in Fort Worth, Texas after moving to New York and not returning...

The poster for "Stella's Last Weekend." (via facebook.com)

‘Stella’s Last Weekend’ Is a Family Film Project That Fails to Charm

Kaylee DeFreitas, Contributing Writer • October 17, 2018
"Stella's Last Weekend" is a nice family effort from Nat and Alex Wolff and their mother, Polly Draper, but it fails to build a sincere, emotional connection with the audience.
Timothee Chalamet in "Beautiful Boy." (via youtube.com)

Chalamet’s ‘Beautiful Boy’ Scratches the Surface of Addiction

Kaylee DeFreitas, Contributing Writer • October 15, 2018
Based on memoirs by David and Nic Sheff, "Beautiful Boy" tackles the weighty topic of addiction, but fails to contribute anything new to the genre.
"Love, Gilda" looks back on the career and life of Gilda Radner.

‘Love, Gilda:’ An Intimate Tribute to a Comedic Legend

Kaylee DeFreitas, Contributing Writer • September 27, 2018
"Love, Gilda," a new documentary profiling renowned comedian Gilda Radner, looks back on a life filled with both laughter and sadness.