One of the biggest contentions most critics have with Extended Reality is its lack of attention to accessibility. The fact of the matter is, it is not guaranteed that we can all use our senses to the same extent as everyone else around us; we will all therefore experience XR in different ways. Some are at an even bigger disadvantage due to issues in motor, visual, or auditory … [Read more...] about XR and Accessibility
Afrofuturism
Easy A: The Vicious Cycle of Rumors
Easy A is a 2010 movie that was directed by Will Gluck, written by Bert V. Royal, and slightly based off of the Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthrone. It follows our main character, Olive Penderghast, as she deals with the backlash from multiple rumors that have spun out of control. Olive tells her friend Rhiannon that she lost her virginity over the weekend with some college … [Read more...] about Easy A: The Vicious Cycle of Rumors
Hypnosis and Memory
Hypnosis is a form of therapy where the subject is put into a deep state of relaxation. During this state, the mind can access memories, sensations, and other thoughts. Hypnosis has many uses, but the main ones are to break bad habits, control pain, manage stress, and manage other health conditions (Johns Hopkins Medicine). Not all people can be hypnotized, and some people are … [Read more...] about Hypnosis and Memory
The Use of XR in Art
From the 17th to 18th century, there was a big change in the art world of France. The lighting and chiaroscuro techniques carried over from influences of the Renaissance, and to an extent so did the subject matter. What really caused the paradigm shift was the way in which artists began using perspective. They transitioned from portraits to scenic depictions. The viewer became … [Read more...] about The Use of XR in Art
Turning Red: Breaking the Cycle of Generational Trauma
Turning Red is a 2022 Pixar animated film directed by Domee Shi and written by Domee Shi and Julia Cho. It follows our main character Meiliin (Mei) Lee, as she tries to navigate her newfound ability to transform into a red panda whenever she feels any strong emotion. Her mother, Ming, explains to her that this was something passed down from their ancestor, Sun Yee, and that all … [Read more...] about Turning Red: Breaking the Cycle of Generational Trauma