Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 3 mars 2018
Forget Grad School - Millennials Are Making Travel the "New Master's Degree"
If it seems like your Instagram feed is saturated with other people's vacation photos, you're not alone. Many of us are green with envy at every cocktail raised against a white-sanded backdrop and equally guilty of posting "candid" shots of ourselves admiring landmarks. With geo-tagged photos becoming the new postcard, our wanderlust is only fueled with every scroll. Not so surprisingly, Booking.com's global research highlights found that one in three 18- to 34-year-olds admit that "they travel more and try more first-time travel experiences so they can post new pictures on their social media."
Despite this disappointing statistic, consider that only half of all millennial travel is purely for leisure. A 2016 study found that about 50 percent of millennial travelers are globe-hopping after high school and college for other reasons: to pursue higher education, volunteer, and study language. While international travel certainly isn't accessible to all, many millennials make financial and personal sacrifices as a tradeoff for new experiences. Gone are the days when the postuniversity track was either heading straight into the workforce or continuing your education at grad school. Now, a number of millennials - who we're dubbing the "travel generation" - have found a way to build travel into their career paths.
Meet Kristina Choi, 27, and Desiree Anderson, 24: two millennials who've fully taken advantage of travel opportunities and benefited from their experiences in more ways than one.
Furthering Education on Another ContinentChoi, who's now a management consultant, killed two birds with one stone by earning her master's degree abroad. Though she didn't travel straight out of college, she did study abroad in Bristol, England, for a semester during her junior year in 2012. After graduating with an English degree and working in public relations for about three years, Choi decided to quit her job to go to grad school - overseas.
Though she applied to a few MBA programs in the US, Choi said, "My priority was to attend a school in London for three main reasons: master's programs are cheaper in the UK than in the US, they are shorter (mine was 12 months), and I would have the chance to live abroad again. I loved my experience of studying abroad during college and knew that I would gain so much more than a degree by moving abroad."
In September 2016, she relocated to London to study at University College London (UCL) for its Master of Science (MSc) in Management program and completed her degree in a year before moving back to the States - all of which she documented on her YouTube channel. Within that time, Choi was able to visit 10 countries outside of England: France, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Italy, Ireland, and Scotland.
"All of the cool kids on Instagram today have shifted from posting pictures of their new handbag to posting pictures of their awesome ziplining experience."Expedia's recent multigenerational travel study discovered an overall shift to prioritizing experiences over material possessions, which could align with the surge in millennial travelers. In that same study, the travel company learned that 65 percent of millennials are currently saving for travel and nearly half would sell their belongings to fund a trip.
"If you remember Sex and the City, which was very Gen X, you'll remember it was pretty focused on 'stuff' - your new pair of shoes, your fancy new dress," Sarah Gavin, vice president of Expedia Inc. global communications, told POPSUGAR via email. "Flash forward and all of the cool kids on Instagram today have shifted from posting pictures of their new handbag to posting pictures of their awesome ziplining experience."
Fortunately, Choi didn't have to give up her possessions. Instead, she calculated exactly how much to save from each paycheck to cover the costs of grad school, visa fees, living expenses, etc. prior to moving. "I was fortunate enough to live with my parents [back home in Los Angeles after college] and saved even more money that way," she said. "I ended up saving enough money to pay for my tuition and dorm, as well as most of my other living expenses before going abroad." Getting a part-time job in London for about six months also provided extra income and travel money.
When I asked Choi over email what traveling had offered that an immediate career path couldn't, she explained that returning to school and living in London provided a stronger global perspective and network, which helped her jump into her next job.
"While I was taking a break from work, I still used so many skills important in the workforce while I lived and traveled abroad," she said. "Traveling requires good time management, budgeting, and especially the ability to deal with different types of people - all while seeing and experiencing beautiful places in the world."
In addition to making friends and memories in the most picturesque places, Choi was also able to challenge her independence, overcome communication barriers, appreciate various cultures and backgrounds, and learn to better deal with unexpected changes.
"Every person has a story, and I think my unconventional path towards my current career helps me stand out and adds to my story," Choi said. "Yes, I probably could have become a consultant much more quickly if I had majored in business as an undergrad and pursued that career immediately, but the experiences I've had up to this point make my work that much more valuable."
"Every person has a story, and I think my unconventional path towards my current career helps me stand out and adds to my story."
Bucket List Over Law SchoolAnderson, who has spent two years working as a legal assistant at an intellectual property law firm, has similarly reaped the benefits of her worldly adventures. After graduating from UC Berkeley in May 2015, Anderson watched many of her peers take off on their international gap year. But paying off students loans and being freshly out of school limited her to local experiences instead.
Rather than traverse the globe, Anderson decided to travel around the US while applying to jobs at law firms. "Traveling that extensively just wasn't in the cards for me, which is why I place an importance on smaller local trips that will still give me that revitalized feeling," she said via email.
Working part-time jobs throughout college, never dipping into her savings (unless for emergencies), and being smart about expenses allowed Anderson to be self-sufficient postgraduation. She also hunted for cheap flights using tools like Skyscanner, Hopper, and other airline apps.
In those five months before landing her current position, she embarked on a multiday backpacking trip through the Narrows in Utah, earned her open-water and advanced scuba certification, and more.
Anderson's original plan was to gain a year of work experience at her firm while studying for the LSAT. Although she didn't intend to stay at the firm for as long as she has, after taking the LSAT, she came to the conclusion that law school would always be there. With the travel bug still kicking since her senior year at the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG), Anderson decided to put her higher education on hold and, instead, use her extra income to cross destinations off her bucket list.
"What I don't want to miss out on is my youth - the blessing of being young, able-bodied, and not having any true restrictions or responsibilities," she told POPSUGAR.
Anderson has since visited 12 countries (with her upcoming Thailand trip to be number 13), including 20 states and counting.
The largest student and youth travel company, STA Travel, has also noticed a trend in "more experiential, authentic adventures" among the more than two million travelers it assists each year, most of whom are between 18 and 35.
"It makes sense, as student and youth travelers nowadays are more likely to invest in experiences than things, and so the travel industry has responded," Tiffany Harrison, senior marketing manager at STA Travel, told POPSUGAR over email. "Many post-grads nowadays are already considering traveling before jumpstarting their careers."
Even with a 9-to-5 job and 10 paid vacation days a year, Anderson still makes it a priority to travel - even if that means taking a red-eye on a Friday and flying back Sunday evening. On top of taking advantage of paid holidays, she makes the most of her weekends checking off new cities within the States.
Though Anderson's job allows her to support herself, the real reason she's able to travel so often is all thanks to her cutting out expenses wherever possible. She cooks meals at home, drinks her office's free coffee, and spends her hard-earned money on round-trip tickets in lieu of trendy accessories and beauty services.
"No one is going to care what your $40-gel manicure looks like when you post a photo of you standing in front of the Eiffel tower," Anderson said. "If you do spend your money on these things, just understand that you're putting off your travels in exchange."
The one exception, however, are accommodations that are culturally unique to that country she's traveling in. In Japan, for example, Anderson allowed herself to splurge a little on her stays at multiple capsule hotels and a traditional ryokan. Otherwise, she prefers hostels all the way.
Anderson's passport has become just as important as her résumé. In addition to feeling personally enriched, her global experiences have translated to the workplace, as well.
"In college, if I could get through a semester without the professor knowing my name and sitting in the back of the classroom, I counted that as a success," Anderson said. "Even though formal education has given me the knowledge and opportunities to attain better careers, no company would hire me if I had the same attitude and behavior in an interview that I had in the classroom. Traveling, and more specifically traveling alone, has allowed me to interact with people of different ages, languages, and nationalities, and find common ground."
Despite graduating from UC Berkeley (as did Choi), the world's No. 1 public university, Anderson argues that the real-world education she received during her travels has been far more valuable.
"Traveling before settling down into a serious career has given me the ability to learn about myself as well as the world around me," she said. "Traveling has allowed me to learn about worlds different than my own, whether I'm underwater diving the Silfra Fissure in Iceland, trekking through mountain ranges of Alaska and warding off grizzly bears, or shopping in the souks of Morocco. Through my travels I've learned about different cultures, animals, ecosystems, traditions, etc., which are all things no classroom or desk job could teach you. Traveling has given me the opportunity to learn about the deepest parts of my personality when faced with new challenges and taught me that I am a lot more capable than I believed I could be. I can honestly say that traveling has shaped who I am entirely."
"Traveling has given me the opportunity to learn about the deepest parts of my personality when faced with new challenges and taught me that I am a lot more capable than I believed I could be."However, it's also important to note that there are best practices when using your personal travels to your professional advantage. Lauren McGoodwin, founder and CEO of female-powered career site Career Contessa and a former university recruiter at Hulu, says it all depends on how you market your experiences.
"If while traveling, they had remarkable volunteer opportunities or were able to hone a skill that's relevant to the job, that would be really great - but they would have to market it to the interviewer," McGoodwin said via email. "For example, if you were applying to an event planning job, or had to explain how you are detail-oriented, you could utilize your vacation-planning expertise to explain how you fit those qualifications."
Rather than listing "travel" on your résumé, McGoodwin recommends tying your travel experiences into your cover letter to make specific connections to the role or company you're applying for. Your story may also be a way to connect with your interviewer or to explain a gap between jobs. But on a personal level, McGoodwin believes that travel can be incredibly valuable.
"Taking trips also allows you the opportunity to reach out to people in your network that you wouldn't normally have the chance to meet up with for an informational interview," she said. "So adding travel to your mental resume - I'm a total advocate of."
The benefits of traveling, especially for millennials, are unparalleled. Global travel company Contiki released a recent study, The Power of Travel, which was advised by leading psychologist Adam Galinsky, PhD, Columbia Business School. It found travel to have an overwhelmingly positive impact on 3,000 18- to 35-year-old travelers and nontravelers around the world, from their careers to their self-confidence.
And it makes sense. When you travel, you're quite literally out of your comfort zone when navigating a foreign place, which forces you to gain a sense of awareness, think outside the box, solve problems, face challenges, and learn to be open-minded. Sure, a diploma can absolutely be critical to achieving professional success. But pushing both your personal and geographical boundaries for new experiences? Now that's the secret to schoolin' life, as Beyoncé would say.
"Academic experience is certainly valuable, but travel adds a whole other element," said Gavin from Expedia. "It has the power to break down barriers, expose different cultures and change the way we see the world, which ultimately enhances your educational experience!"
For Women Like Silvia, Changes to Title X Family Planning Could Be a Matter of Life and Death
For Silvia, access to birth control is a necessity. Now, with Title X under attack, Silvia - who relies on the program's services for contraceptives - fears for her health.
Women's reproductive rights have been under consistent attack under the Trump administration. This time, it's Title X, a federal grant program that provides family planning for low-income households, that is being threatened.
More than 4 million Americans rely on Title X, 89 percent of them women. Some of the services Title X funds go toward include cervical and breast cancer screenings, birth control, and testing and treatment for STIs, including HIV - and Planned Parenthood serves 41 percent of patients in this program.
The Trump administration announced in February that it plans to prioritize grant applications for Title X from religious organizations that also educate on abstinence or "natural" methods. This would exclude many organizations, including Planned Parenthood. The administration also plans to penalize reproductive healthcare providers, making it harder for women to access reproductive health care under Title X.
Nearly 1 million women received breast exams in 2016 alone thanks to Title X. That's on top of the nearly 1.9 million unplanned pregnancies the program prevented in 2015.
Silvia is one of these women who uses contraceptives provided by Title X and Planned Parenthood; however, the reason Silvia relies on birth control is because a pregnancy could potentially kill her.
Silvia was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 6, after having tolerated body pain since the age of 3. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that mistakenly identifies cells and tissues as foreign to the body, causing the immune system to fight healthy cells and tissues thinking they are viruses or bacteria.
Silvia's taken medication to fight the inflammation since the age of 6. It wasn't until her 20s, when Silvia started thinking of possibly starting a family, that her doctor delivered some rough news: the effects of the medication Silvia's been taking most of her life would put any pregnancy of hers at high risk.
"When I heard that getting pregnant wasn't an option for me, I felt like I lost control of my life," Silvia told POPSUGAR. "All of a sudden, the room felt cold and I felt alone. I wanted that feeling of surprise and joy that comes with finding out you're pregnant. For me, that won't happen."
As a result, Silvia has to be extra careful about preventing pregnancies, requiring her to take a more reliable birth control. Since Silvia didn't have health insurance, she turned to Planned Parenthood and Title X for contraceptives. Not only did Planned Parenthood educate Silvia on the different types of contraceptives available to her, but it was also able to provide her birth control at no cost to her.
Hear Silvia's story in her own words above and visit Planned Parenthood to learn more about how you can help protect women's reproductive rights.
The 10 Most Popular Reddit AMAs of 2017
One of the best things about Reddit is the amount of exposure you can get to strong, important voices that perhaps don't have the proper platforms to get themselves heard. As a result, Reddit AMAs make for some of the most fascinating reading material available on the internet today – and, of course, finally give Redditors the chance to turn the tables on those who do have a platform to speak on and ask the questions that they may not have otherwise answered in a public setting.
Luckily for us, Reddit's gone ahead and pulled together the 10 most popular AMAs of this year as part of its annual year in review, and it makes for the best kind of after-the-fact reading when you're traveling or looking for something to lazily read as you relax on your time off. Ahead, from Bill Gates to a local weatherman to the man who played Goofy at Walt Disney World for more than 25 years, you'll find the best AMAs that Reddit had to offer in 2017.
Feminist Icon Mother Nature Reveals the Truth About Trump's Hair With a Gust of Wind
President Donald Trump is the sort of guy who sweats the small stuff. Whether it is complaining about unflattering photos or calling people names for wronging him or bragging about his "bigger & more powerful" button, the 6'3", 71-year-old leader of our country is an extremely sensitive little man and has always lived one oddly embittered life. And thanks to one recent revelation regarding Trump's "furry circle" of hair, we might be bearing a monumental meltdown in the near future - because the public finally got a glimpse of what lies beneath.
When Trump boarded Air Force One on Feb. 1, it was a particularly windy day. As he marched up the red staircase, something spectacular happened by way of Mother Nature's #resist-ing: his hair was literally blown over by a gust of wind, revealing the landscape underneath his "contained island" of gauzy blond.
It was all caught on video, too.
This rare occurrence was caught by Huffington Post's Ashley Feinberg who shared the finding on Twitter. Feinberg assumed the video was manipulated or faked but confirmed the situation via images from both Getty and Reuters. As Jonathan Chait of New York Magazine observes, the footage is perhaps, "the worst hair day of what has been a bad hair life."
We don't yet know if the president has seen the photos or videos of his hair attempting this great escape, but we can all assume we will hear about it at some point in the near future, be it via Twitter or a white knuckled-press conference. But it's pretty safe to say that the worst case scenario will consist of yet another stinging rebuke of the lying media, a dismissal of the entire situation as fake news. Conversely, the best case scenario? He will declare war on his own scalp - though granted, he already appears to be at war. . . considering his head appears to have its own DMZ.
Hysterical Dad Tweets Priceless Conversations Between Him and His Daughters
Comedian James Breakwell makes sure that every tweet he sends is absolutely hilarious - by recounting conversations he has with his wife and four daughters under the age of 6. His account, XplodingUnicorn, is full of priceless 140-character encounters with his little ladies, all of whom seem to have been passed down a bit of their father's comedic ability and give new meaning to the phrase "kids say the darnedest things."
Scroll through for some of his tweets, which will undoubtedly give you stitches in your side.
17 Budget-Friendly Grocery Store Items That Will Keep Any Family Satisfied
Grocery shopping when you're a parent can be kind of like a horror movie . . . it's unpredictable, you never know who's going to pop out where, and there will probably be some tears over your refusal to buy the insanely sugary cereal. But, in general, if you plan ahead and have a list of items your family asks for again and again, you can hit the aisles with confidence and determination.
Whether it's tasty snacks from Trader Joe's or pantry staples that act as building blocks for endless weeknight meals, having these items in your kitchen will mean your family will never ask that dreaded question: "Mom, what's there to eat?" And the best part? Many of these staples go together to create the perfect snack or meal. Click through to see your ultimate grocery list.
20 Simple Ways to Be a Better Mom in 2018
The pressures of modern parenting are enough to drive any mom to insanity, but if you take a step back and really look at your life as a parent, your kids don't need as much from you as you think they do. Not much has changed since you were a kid yourself, begging your mom to look at the Lego structure you spent hours building - kids just want to spend time with their parents and feel their love. It's easy to get distracted by our phones and busy schedules and to spend too much time comparing ourselves to the polished moms we see on social media, but the truth is, being a great mom isn't about how good the little square photos on our Instagram profiles look, it's about the connections we make with our kids and the things we do that will stick with them for a lifetime.
We're here to remind you that you're already a great mom, but if you're looking for ways to be a better parent in 2018, here are 20 simple things you can do to achieve your highest supermom status in the coming year.
You'll Never Want to Get Off the Pot Once You Try This Heated Toilet Seat From Amazon
My apartment doesn't have a heater, so needless to say, my morning bathroom stop is pretty chilly. Recently, my toilet seat was in desperate need of a replacement, so my roommates and I decided check out our options on Amazon and discovered this Brondell LumaWarm Heated Nightlight Toilet Seat ($109). We were so excited about the idea of being able to afford what felt like a luxury item, so, without hesitation, we ordered it.
It comes in two sizes, elongated and round, which was a foreign concept to me, but after a quick Google search, I learned that toilets are, in fact, made in two different shapes and you can figure out which one you have by measuring the length of your current seat.
We were excited when it arrived within just a few days, and it was easy to install - all we needed was a screwdriver. In order for it to work, we made sure we had an outlet close to the toilet because it is powered by plugging into the wall. It features three different heat settings and even a blue nightlight.
We instantly fell in love with it. Sitting on a regular toilet just doesn't feel the same anymore. The price tag was totally worth it.
The Restaurant Replacing Cove Bar at Disneyland Sounds Even MORE Amazing
Goodbye Cove Bar, hello Lamplight Lounge! The beloved waterside restaurant and bar will be replaced by a California-style gastropub, with signature cuisine and cocktails. But don't worry! Lobster nachos, a Cove Bar favorite, will still be on the new Lamplight menu.
When Pixar Pier opens on June 23 at Disney California Adventure, Lamplight Lounge will be open for guests to check out.
"This seaside lounge contains a full bar with picturesque waterfront views from both upstairs and downstairs," Disney said. "At night, outdoor seating provides views of the illuminated Pixar Pier and 'World of Color.' Renovated from an old warehouse factory, the location has kept many features of the original two-story building. The steel structural elements as well as concrete and brick walls were exposed and repaired to tell the story of its past. The original wood boards from the factory were refinished and given new life as ceiling panels and floors. The furniture style echoes a relaxed feel and the end result is an open, airy, and bright place that is organic yet sophisticated."
And true to its location at Pixar Pier, the restaurant will celebrate the artists and storytellers behind your favorite Pixar films.
"Guests will discover the artistic marks that the Pixar 'regulars' have left throughout the lounge: concept art, a quick sketch on a napkin, knick-knacks and collectable toys of beloved Pixar characters will adorn the space," Disney reported.
Get excited for this new addition to California Adventure, and say farewell to Cove Bar starting March 16, when it will reopen briefly before closing at the end of May for good.
The 7 Main Causes of Divorce
Nobody, hopefully, enters into a marriage with a person thinking they are going to one day deal with a divorce. Even if there are problems in the relationship, a couple hope that after walking down the aisle, smooching hello to the promise of a life together, and getting down on the dance floor, their relationship with fall into place. But it doesn't always happen like that.
Life gets in the way and relationships get tangled, leaving between 40 to 50 percent of couples in the United States opting for divorce. So is there a way to see if your relationship is divorce-proof? Probably not. But there are signs to look for to see if your relationship might be heading down that path. Here are the most popular reasons married couples split up.
1. Issues Regarding Sex
Things may have been stale, or nonexistent, in the bedroom for quite some time. But while both of you have turned a blind eye to that, there might be more destruction happening to your relationship than you think.
"It's no secret that couples begin to feel doomed and start talking about divorce when their sex lives change," said Shannon Kalberg, LMFT, a marriage and family therapist and an adjunct clinical professor at Pepperdine University. "What many couples and individuals miss is that a couple's sex life needs to be worked at over time and that desire can be fickle, especially since desire has the tendency to ebb and flow in a long-term marriage. However, a mismatch in libido, shaming the other partner for their sexual fantasies, and negative values about sex can lead to divorce."
2. Fighting Dirty
All couples have their arguments, and while that's not always something to worry about, the way the couple argue might be a sign that divorce is imminent.
"In a couple's session, I encourage them to bring up an issue that they often have disagreements about," Kalberg said. "I do this because it gives me a sense of how couples argue, communicate, and problem solve. If a couple does not attempt to regulate emotions or validate each other during arguments, then the escalation in anger and tension can ruin a marriage. This can look like blaming, name calling, and shaming. It will build resentment and create a power imbalance that loses sight of what really matters in a relationship: trust and safety in times of distress."
3. Trying to "Fix" Each Other
Growing apart from the person you married or just no longer getting a kick out of their bad habits or frustrating ways is another main reason couples want to call it quits.
"I can't tell you how many times I have had an intake with a potential client who states that they want to begin couples therapy in order to 'fix' their partner," Kalberg said. "This can be a huge predictor to divorce because what that person fails to understand is their own responsibility in the relationship. By placing the blame entirely on the other person and refusing to examine your own actions, it will cause a large emotional block between the two partners. If this continues, then over time they will begin to emotionally isolate themselves, which could lead to other issues, like infidelity."
4. Lack of Commitment
When life gets in the way of love and you feel like you're growing apart from your spouse, it's important to take a step back and prioritize. Dr. Wyatt Fisher, a licensed psychologist and marriage counselor in Boulder, CO, says that both spouses want to feel like they are equally working at the marriage. "Therefore, if one partner starts feeling like they are the main one working at the relationship, they'll eventually get burned out and want out of the relationship," Dr. Fisher said.
5. Infidelity
If you find out your partner has strayed from the relationship and cheated on you, it may be really hard to salvage the relationship afterward. "Infidelity is one of the quickest ways to break trust in marriage cross-culturally, and many couples are unable to recover from it, especially if the betraying spouse doesn't take true ownership for their behavior," Dr. Fisher said.
6. Lack of Appreciation
A thank you goes a long way in a relationship, even if you have been with your partner for years. Without it, Robin Graine, a divorce mediator and former family law attorney, says the relationship can be at risk. "Everyone feels that they are working hard, contributing money, and doing their best to raise the children and keep the household running," Graine said. "When the mom doesn't appreciate the dad making the money and dad doesn't appreciate the mom paying attention to all of the details, everyone is resentful."
7. No One Is Paying Attention
Good communication is always the best foundation for any relationship, but so is making sure you are listening to your spouse. "When married couples stop listening to one another and paying attention to each other's needs and desires, they wind up in my office," Graine said.
I'm a Light-Skinned Latina, and Yes, Colorism Does Exist
"You sound too smart to be Latina," he said before taking a gulp of his beer.
This wasn't the first time I had heard something as condescending as this before, but that didn't keep me from making a surprised face. I shuffled uncomfortably and looked the other direction as I softly said, "Well, I am. I'm Mexican-American, actually." I made an excuse and walked to the bar's porch, back to my friends, as he stood there feeling rejected but not embarrassed for what he had said.
I've always been flattered when someone's complimented my smarts and sense of humor, except when they derive from colorism.
Being a light-skinned Latina has been a roller coaster of a ride for me. While I longed for my cousin's dark, honey-kissed complexion, I learned to appreciate my paler skin . . . freckles, veins, and all. I've also had to learn that because my skin is fairer, I'm less likely to be associated with negative stereotypes about Mexican-Americans.
In my 26 years of life, I've hardly ever experienced discrimination or biased comments for my background. In fact, I've experienced more colorism from the Latino community, oftentimes being accused of being "white washed" by classmates through middle and high school.
It wasn't until college that I started hearing more backhanded compliments that praised me for passing for white simply because of the way I spoke and dressed.
I once sat next to a young Latina at a friend's wedding who was confused about my nameplate saying "Rivera."
"Wait, are you Mexican?" she asked.
"Yeah, my name is Natalie Rivera."
"I would have never guessed! You just seem so classy and smart!" she said with a laugh.
I didn't find it that funny, but I gave a friendly chuckle and changed the subject, asking her how she knew the bride and groom. As she spoke, I couldn't help but feel disappointed - disappointed that she assumed that I wasn't Latina because of the way I carried myself, and guilt for feeling flattered.
Yeah, flattered. For a while I thought to myself, "Well, if my community doesn't accept me, then I should simply own being 'white washed.'" I did this not knowing that I was not only depriving myself of my culture, but I was also contributing to the problem.
How many times have we felt relieved any time someone doesn't associate us with stereotypes? How may times have you thought, "I'm not that kind of blank. I'm this kind of blank."
Some of us have this mindset embedded in us because we've only been exposed to colorism, whether it's through a television set or "harmless" comments like, "You look white."
We add fuel to the fire by boxing people in our own community into categories, sometimes without even knowing it. Instead of classifying ourselves, we should acknowledge that not every community will look, speak, or even dress the same. Race will never come in one shade; there will never be a one size fits all. So own it, be a part of a community, and - most importantly - be proud of your roots.
13 Heartwarming Revelations We Learned From Camila Cabello's Made in Miami Documentary
Camila Cabello first won everyone over as a member of Fifth Harmony and now that she's gone solo, the 20-year-old is giving the world a peek at a whole new side of her. The "Havana" singer's new YouTube documentary, Made in Miami, is a beautiful look at not only her journey, but everything her family did to help her become a star.
In it, we meet Camila's tight-knit family, learn how she started singing, and how her hit "Havana" happened on total accident. If you're too busy to watch it - even though you totally should because you'll appreciate her even more - we are breaking down the most important things we learned.
- On her singing career: "I remember growing up, I was singing, but there was no real possibility in my mind of this being a career choice."
- On leaving Cuba: "For me it was about her, the only thing I repeated to myself was 'she cannot stay here'," Camila's mom says. "It was kind of scary, so what I told her was that we wanted to go Disney World."
- On her father finally arriving to the US: Camila's dad, Alejandro Cabello, swam the infamous Rio Grande to enter the United States after repeated attempts to get a visa. "I had this Disney calendar that I would always mark the Xs until the day my dad was going to come."
- On how she started singing: "I was always obsessed with artists and music. I don't know why I never sang in front of my family. I was always supershy. I love music so much, but it definitely takes a lot for me to break out of my shell."
- On how YouTube changed her: "I started making these videos with my face covered because I didn't want anybody in school to find out . . . I posted at least 20 videos and I deleted all of them except for one . . . Posting those covers on YouTube definitely gave me just a little bit more confidence."
- On her 15th birthday: "When I turned 15, I told my family I would really liked to be taken to the North Carolina X Factor auditions."
- On starting to go by Camila: "Everybody called me Karla in my school, and from that moment I was like, 'No, I want to be called Camila' because it was a new beginning for me. In interviews and everything, I got the chance to start over."
- On being a part of Fifth Harmony: "When I was in the group, I experienced different things and grew a lot, but then it felt like I had new things to talk about. I think for me, as an artist, the only way to feel good is to make stuff that you love. But I got to this place where I couldn't express how I was feeling because I didn't understand my emotions."
- On working in the studio by herself: "This whole time, I'd been writing by myself, and I was so nervous to get into the studio, because I'd never written in the room with producers before. I had acid reflux, and I didn't sleep at all. I thought, 'Am I actually good or is it just my mom and my family that thinks I'm good.'"
- On her hit "Havana": "Frank just played this beat, and I started doing melodies over it, and he was like, 'Oh my God, what the heck, we literally have a whole song.' There was just a vibe. I think something clicked for us."
- On changing the name of her album: "In the beginning, my album was going to be called, The Hurting, The Healing, The Loving, and I changed it because I feel like I healed at the halfway point. And after that, I felt like, 'No, this album is about me, and how I felt and how I love people,' and I've decided to ask way less people for opinions."
- On her family being her support system: "In my family, I have so much love around me all the time, which is, I think, the biggest reason why I haven't lost my footing. Something that's just present in our family is this kind of blind courage. Every day, there is something that makes me nervous that I just push myself to do."
- On Miami being home: "Every time I come here, I feel more in touch with everything that my family had to go through for me. It's just that sense of being humbled by where you come from, and also the food is awesome."
You Saw Them Here First: 9 Dresses That Could Pop Up on the Oscars Red Carpet
You can imagine what the 2018 Oscars red carpet might look like all you want, but considering this award season's past trends - women are wearing black in support of the Time's Up movement, but stars wore white roses to the Grammys and the Brit Awards - a lot must be taken into consideration. Celebrity stylists share sneak peeks of their preparation before Sunday night, but we made it our duty to tap a professional forecaster, too.
Moda Operandi's Elizabeth Leventhal is the general merchandising manager of ready-to-wear for the high-fashion shopping site. Elizabeth tracks the runways and keeps a careful eye on how the looks we see translate to the red carpet, as well as in stores. Elizabeth worked with us to determine what this year's stylish nominees just might wear to Hollywood's biggest event. Ahead, brush up on the leading females, read up on Elizabeth's trustworthy predictions, and shop the dresses if you're feeling fancy.
Buy These Swimsuits Now and Wear Them Through 2019 - Because They'll Still Be Cool
The new year starts in January, and if you think that's not bikini season, well, you're wrong. Right when Resort collections drop, it feels like the supermodels and stars jet-set off to extravagant beach locales, showing us exactly what to wear for the new year. We've done our research, analyzing the new prints, silhouettes, and colorways brands are churning out, thereby finalizing the biggest swimsuit trends to invest in now and wear through next Christmas. Yep, that means you can trust all of these styles to be relevant when you're on vacation in March or September, and we bet you'll be just as excited to flaunt them then, too. Go ahead and read up on every swimwear design, or jump ahead to the one you're already eyeing.
What to Wear With Leggings - Once and For All
Let's face it: leggings are comfortable. That's likely why so many women favor them over jeans, trousers, and skirts, but figuring out how to wear them without looking a little too casual is a definite art form. While we're all for being cozy - particularly during the chilly months of the year - a lot of people don't realize that it's actually possible to look cute and wear leggings at the same time.
How to achieve stretchy-but-chic outfit nirvana? First up, find a pair of leggings you love, make extra sure they're not see-through (the worst!), then take some how-to-wear styling cues from the outfits ahead.
Why Stars Won't Be Wearing Black Gowns to the Oscars
The Time's Up movement was always meant to live beyond award season. Though attendees of the Golden Globes and BAFTA Awards chose to wear black gowns to show solidarity with the initiative to fight sexual harassment, Time's Up organizers have confirmed that stars will not be expected to stick to a particular dress code for the Oscars. The announcement was made just days before the big show.
In an intimate press conference, organizers, including Shonda Rhimes, Laura Dern, and Ava DuVernay, detailed how the movement will exist beyond award season. According to The Telegraph, Rhimes said Time's Up "was launched on the red carpet, but was never intended to live there." For that reason, they have not encouraged actors to wear black.
Me Too founder Tarana Burke also agrees with the decision. At the Essence Black Women in Hollywood luncheon, Burke said:
"What happened at the Golden Globes was a unique action to an issue that affects people from around the world. It's not a gimmick. We have real work to do, making sure survivors have what they need to have to heal. Whether they do something for the Oscars or not doesn't matter to me."
That being said, the movement will certainly be a topic of conversation on Sunday night, with prominent supporters and organizers not only attending but also presenting. It's also very likely that stars will find other creative ways to show support in their style choices. The SAG Awards red carpet, for example, featured a rainbow of dresses, yet most stars did wear Time's Up pins, and at the Grammys, people carried or wore white roses.
Though the black dress code previously made a powerful, and visually striking, statement, it's clear that Time's Up will make its messaging heard in other ways. Since its launch in January, the initiative has already raised a $21 million legal defense fund for victims.
Behati Prinsloo Is Back in a Sexy Swimsuit Just Weeks After Giving Birth
Just weeks after the birth of her second daughter, Behati Prinsloo is back in a bathing suit. The Victoria's Secret Angel showed off her amazing postbaby bod while wearing a sexy black-and-white one-piece on her Instagram Stories. Behati's swimsuit featured a keyhole cutout in the front and another cutout on the back. The model styled her Summer-ready look with a pair of gold hoop earrings. Read on to see her stunning swimsuit, then buy similar versions of her one-piece ahead.
100 Jaw-Dropping Looks From the Oscars Red Carpet That We'll Remember Forever
We're revving up for Oscars Sunday by taking a look back at the most memorable looks from shows past. The glamorous red carpet always brings out the most gorgeous, jaw-dropping (and sometimes mind-boggling) celebrity ensembles, and we can't wait to see what this year's show brings. From Gwyneth Paltrow's iconic white Tom Ford gown, to Emma Stone's old Hollywood-inspired Givenchy gown, click through to see 100 of the most unforgettable Oscars looks now.
- Additional reporting by Nikita Ramsinghani
These Are the 18 Models You Need to Know by Name in 2018
Before Kaia, there was Kendall. Before Kendall, there was Cara. Before Cara were Karlie, Kate, and Cindy (can you say full-circle moment?). These legendary beauties have already earned their places in fashion history, so looking into the new year, we have to ask: who's next?
Thankfully, we don't have to consult a crystal ball to predict the future, because the 2018 runways and campaigns have already provided us with plenty of models to place our bets on. Who's the next beauty so rare that she need only go by one name? Read on to see our 18 picks.
Miley Cyrus Pulled a Fashion Move Celebrities Rarely Dare to Try For This Photo Shoot
Miley's biggest fans will know she nabbed the cover of Wonderland Magazine's Spring 2018 issue. She posted pics from the editorial on her Instagram, all of which were shot by photographer Ellen von Unwerth. But something's different about this particular shoot: Miley styled herself from head to toe, which is not a task celebrities often take on after sitting through hair and makeup, giving an interview, and preparing to pose in front of the camera.
But Miley made one thing very, very clear: "You can always tell where my head and heart is at - because I am likely wearing it." That quote couldn't be more true of Miley's signature look, which is at times quirky. But the star still knows what appeals to the everyday fashion girl, which she recently proved with her sneaker collaboration for Converse.
"Getting to design has always been a dream since my style is such an important part of what I represent," Miley said of the process. Ahead, you can take a look at the sugary-pink costumes Miley chose for her big moment, and then check out our imaginative ideas for her wedding dress, along with designer Jeremy Scott's.
Kylie Jenner's Style Can Be Summed Up in 3 Words: Sexy as Hell
Kylie Jenner's style can be summed up in three words: sexy as hell. If you follow the starlet on social media, you've probably seen her pose for a million selfies in an array of body-con dresses, sporty tracksuits, and lust-worthy boots.
The 20-year-old, who recently gave birth to her first child with rapper Travis Scott, pretty much finds a way to make even a pair of high-waisted jeans look sexy with her styling abilities. (She has this down to a science.) Keep reading to have a look back at our favorite outfits Kylie has worn and learn a couple of styling tips while you're at it.
14 Sexy One-Piece Swimsuits That Will Make You Feel Like a Bombshell in 2018
We embrace one-piece swimsuits with open arms. If you're looking for a sexy design this year, we rounded up the hottest options for 2018. Show off all your best assets and channel your inner bombshell in these picks. They come in an array of price points and styles, so you're bound to discover something that catches your eye. Shop them now.
15 New Pieces From Urban Outfitters That Will Totally Transform Your Wardrobe
Every time I stop by an Urban Outfitters, I can't help but fall in love with a handful of new items. The popular retailer is constantly releasing fresh pieces that inspire me to spruce up my own wardrobe. So if you're growing tired of throwing on the same old sweater and trousers every day, treat yourself to something that you'll actually be excited to wear. From a sheer panel dress to patent leather boots, check our these hot picks.
Did Kylie Jenner Choose This Tracksuit Because It Looks Like a Storm's a-Brewin'?
There seems to be a pattern with Kylie Jenner's postpregnancy style. For her first selfie after giving birth to Stormi Webster, Kylie posed in a red Adidas tracksuit. Now, for her daughter's 1-month birthday, the beauty mogul celebrated in yet another tracksuit.
Kylie cradled baby Stormi while wearing a printed ensemble by Alexander Wang. We wonder if she strategically chose this look because the dark and mysterious designs on the athleisure set resembled a thunderstorm. Read on to get a closer look, and let us know what you think. Then, buy the exact outfit Kylie is wearing, as well as similar looks, ahead.
Prepare to Fall in Love With These 15 Stylish Sneakers - All Under $50
My closet is filled to the brim with sneakers. Needless to say, I'm pretty obsessed with the versatile shoes and will wear them anytime, anywhere. If you have a relatable addiction to kicks, you know how good it feels to put on a fresh pair. If you feel like treating yourself to some, you don't need to spend a fortune to do so. A ton of popular brands are constantly releasing new designs that are totally worth it. We shopped for you and found everything from plain canvas choices to glitter and embellished picks. Clear out your closet and prepare to make room for these stylish pairs.
Your Guide to Pronouncing Those Confusing Designer Names This Fashion Week
We get it: when it's Fashion Week, you want to sound cool when you talk about all the designers you are following from New York to Paris. But then you have to actually say their names and, well, the jig is up. Prabal Gu-what now? Proenza Schou-who? Givench-huh?
To help you avoid a major fashion faux pas (pronounced foh pah, you guys), we've dug up some "helpful" video tutorials. Read on to hear them all.
These Are the 18 Stars You'll Always Find in the Front Row at Fashion Week
The celebrities who sit front row at Fashion Week share a genuine love for design. While some of them are model vets, like Cara Delevingne and Miranda Kerr, others just have strong relationships with their favorite brands, and they love to show their support.
Actresses like Sienna Miller, Kate Bosworth, and Diane Kruger arrive dressed to the nines, turning every camera their way. But when they're in their seats, admiring the debut looks before them, they're completely engaged. Scroll for a list of the 18 stars you can always trust to find at Fashion Week no matter the season and read up on their favorite shows to attend.
28 Fashionable Ways to Wear Your Scarf This Season
If there's one accessory we always have on hand once the temperatures fall, it's a soft and cozy scarf. Scarves come in all sorts of lengths, colors, and even levels of heft, so they work with your outfit, no matter the occasion. So whether your go-to is a silk scarf tied tight or an oversize knit designed to toss over your favorite coat, here are 28 ways to wear this comfy wardrobe staple.
- Additional reporting by Aemilia Madden
The 18 Most Stunning Pieces of Jewelry Kate Middleton Has Received From the Royal Family
Sapphires and diamonds and pearls, oh my! From brand-new bling to centuries-old diamonds, in her first five years of marriage, the Duchess of Cambridge has already worn some impressive pieces of jewelry. Her new family has helped her build her very own collection of sparklers, but when it comes to really putting on the glitz, nothing beats having access to her grandmother-in-law's incredible and iconic collection.
We took a look at the top 18 pieces of jewelry Kate has received or borrowed from the royal family - so far.
Tonya Harding's Skating Costumes Really Did Look Like That - Down to Every Sequin and Bead
Perhaps it's because I'm a fashion gal through and through, but the one scene from I, Tonya that stuck with me most was a close-up of Margot Robbie (as former Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding) right before beginning a routine, wearing a pair of sparkling Chanel earrings. Actually, all of the kitschy skating costumes intrigued me. "Did Harding's costumes look exactly like this throughout her career, and why do they make me feel almost . . . uncomfortable?" I immediately began to wonder as I watched the film.
Turns out, the off-putting appearance of Harding's signature look was purposeful. Costume designer Jennifer Johnson very accurately displayed the ensembles Harding wore (many of which her mother LaVona sewed by hand) which judges considered to be "tasteless" or "tacky." She told Deadline:
"With Tonya, because she's a tough person, she's not afraid to voice her opinion and she does not particularly consider herself ultra-feminine, so the skating costumes were always pink and purple, and colors that were probably quite uncomfortable for her in real life. Then, she started making more money, and being able to afford her Louis Vuitton bag. She has Chanel earrings and a nice leather jacket and she's definitely more sober in her color choices as the violence escalates . . . I love that Tonya really always said, 'No. This is who I am, and please listen.' I just thought that was really fascinating. That, to me, makes her really a powerful figure in the sports world, because that world is sort of a ballet. It has so many rules, and it's sort of like cotillion, the rules of dress and behavior and how women should act."
Johnson also told Vogue that when she was introduced to Harding at a party, "She gave me a big hug and said, 'My God! When I was watching the movie I thought, how did they get a hold of my skating costumes and my clothes?'" If you've any doubt, at this point, that Johnson is quite talented, read on to compare some of Harding's most memorable skating outfits with the near-identical replicas created for Robbie.
Gigi Hadid's New Vogue Eyewear Sunglasses Are So Darn Retro-Fab, You'll Want Every Pair
After debuting her fourth and final Gigi Hadid x Tommy Hilfiger collection, Gigi revealed her second edition of the Gigi Hadid for Vogue Eyewear line. The supermodel-turned-designer stars in the campaign, naturally, which shows her sporting sleek, retro-chic shades on the sunny beaches of Ibiza. The collection includes three new styles of frames that channel Gigi's idea of "trademark style with unexpected contrasts."
If the sunglasses in the campaign images look familiar, it's because Gigi has already been spotted in the designs three times as she ran around between shows during Fashion Month. Check out the stunning images below, and shop the exact pairs of sunglasses that Gigi is wearing in each photo exclusively on sunglasshut.com. Plus, see how she styles them in real life.
15 Reasons Meghan Markle Should Feel Damn Proud to Wear a Pantsuit
If Meghan Markle broke royal protocol by wearing this Alexander McQueen pantsuit to the Endeavour Awards, I certainly wasn't concerned. I thought she looked slick and stylish in her tailored pieces, a touch feminine thanks to a Tuxe pussybow blouse, and maybe even a little sexy in those sky-high Manolo Blahnik pumps. To me, her outfit was perfect, though fans of the British crown and palace might have been worried about her decision to ditch a dress.
But Meghan's already made waves on the style front, choosing a top handle tote over a clutch and nixing tights to announce her engagement. We are here to prove she's not the only lady of high status who prefers slacks over a gown from time to time. Ahead, you can find 15 royals, from sophisticated, fashion-forward types like Queen Rania of Jordan and Princess Charlene to front-row mavens such as Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Princess Deena Aljuhani Abdulaziz, who make a pantsuit look fresher than a couture skirt straight out of the atelier. And they should all feel damn proud.
Meet the Bewitching Cast of Netflix's The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Casting for The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is officially underway! After announcing that Kiernan Shipka will star as the infamous teenage witch last month, Netflix has revealed even more additions to the upcoming series. We know that both Harvey Kinkle and Sabrina's cat, Salem, are set to appear on the series. Although the lucky actor playing Harvey has yet to be announced, Netflix has found the purr-fect cat to play Sabrina's beloved four-legged confidante, as well as a few other exciting players. See who's already signed up for the show ahead.
Sandra Bullock Cozies Up to Boyfriend Bryan Randall, Who Appears to Be Wearing a Wedding Band
Sandra Bullock and her boyfriend, Bryan Randall, stepped out for a sweet stroll in LA on Thursday, and we couldn't help but notice that the handsome photographer was wearing a gold band on that finger. Did the couple, who have been dating for over two years, get secretly married? It was reported back in October that they were contemplating an under-the-radar wedding and that Bryan had "taken on the role of raising" Sandra's two children, Louis and Laila - tying the knot was "definitely" something he wanted, as he had never been married. Despite the ring, Sandra's rep tells Us Weekly simply, "They are not married."
We last got a glimpse of Bryan and Sandra when they enjoyed a date night in LA along with Jennifer Aniston back in October. Wedding or not, there's a chance that we'll see Sandra and her man at the Oscars on Sunday; the actress is confirmed to present during the ceremony, so it's possible that Bryan will accompany her on the red carpet - or at least to a couple of afterparties. Keep reading to see their cute outing, and peep Bryan's gold ring!
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 2: What We Know So Far
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel has been a triumph for Amazon Studios since its release in November. Critics are raving and the show received two Golden Globes, one for best musical/comedy TV series and one for its star, Rachel Brosnahan, for best actress in a TV musical/comedy. Obviously, it's getting a second season.
In fact, it was actually the first Amazon series to receive a multiple-season order before it even debuted, receiving a two-season order back in April 2017. But what do we know about season two?
The only thing we know for sure is that it's coming. As for specific plotlines, Brosnahan teased for Indie Wire that Midge, the Upper West Side housewife who embarks on a stand-up comedy career after her husband leaves her, is going to struggle to navigate the different worlds she occupies.
Brosnahan says that Midge lives in three different worlds - the one where she's a wife/mother/daughter, the one where she's a working woman (she has a job at a department store to support her family), and the one where she's a budding stand-up comic - and those worlds aren't always easy to maintain simultaneously.
"[T]hose three worlds, they don't work together very well," said Brosnahan. "So I look forward to watching her struggle to maintain those three different identities simultaneously."
Brosnahan added that if Midge were to have to choose one of those worlds, she's not sure where her character would end up.
"I don't think that she'd know at this very moment. I expect that as we go along further in the series that answer will become clearer to her," said Brosnahan. "Right now, she's obviously giving stand-up her all, but she still feels very much rooted in those other worlds . . . the working world is new for her, as well, and she really loves it. It gives her a new sense of purpose that she wasn't expecting. But she is still very much rooted in her identity as a mother and a housewife. But at this point, I don't think she'd have the answer. And neither do I, but I do expect that to become clearer as we move forward."
What will be interesting to see is if the show picks up exactly where season one left off or not. In the season finale, Midge has a wildly successful set at the Gaslight while her husband, Joel, realizes just how far he has fallen and how much he lost when he gave up on his marriage to Midge. Will the show return to that moment? Or will it skip ahead a bit?
We'd love to see the show pick up pretty much immediately after the finale, if only to see how Joel conducts himself after that night. But we'll have to wait and see. The second season should premiere in late 2018. In her interview, Brosnahan told Indie Wire that shooting begins this Spring.
10 Photos of Roseanne and John Goodman That Show What 30 Years of Friendship Looks Like
It's been over 20 years since Roseanne came to an end, but Roseanne Barr (Roseanne Conner) and John Goodman (Dan Conner) are still as close as ever. Not only are they both returning for the Roseanne reboot, but in 2012, they also starred together on NBC's Downwardly Mobile. Aside from their professional relationship, John recently told AARP that he and Roseanne "hit it off immediately" when they first met 30 years ago because of their "similar senses of humor." He also said that it "always felt like family when they were working." We certainly can't wait to see Roseanne and John back on the screen together on March 27, but in the meantime, take a look at some of their cutest moments.
Exactly How Violent Is Red Sparrow? Here Are the Most F*cked-Up Parts
Warning: major spoilers and graphic descriptions of violence for Red Sparrow below.
For her latest role, Jennifer Lawrence really is doing the most. The esteemed actress is playing a Russian woman, a prima ballerina, and a spy, all within one wild and reckless character. Based on the film's trailers and an extended sneak peek, we already knew we were in for quite a ride. But could anything adequately prepare us for the complete savagery Dominika would face? The answer is no. With its R rating, Red Sparrow is filled to the brim with blood, brutal violence, sexual assault, and nudity. Wondering if you can handle some of the most intense parts of the film? We're breaking down the worst of the worst, just for you.
1. The Ballet Sequence
Man, do things start off with a bang. Or, rather, a snap. We meet Dominika Egorova (Lawrence), a Russian prima ballerina who is at the height of her dancing career. During a showstopping performance, a horrifying injury ends her career: her male partner Konstantin (Sergei Polunin) does a gravity-defying leap and lands right on her lower leg, which snaps in half. Not only do you see the moment of impact, but you also get a lovely bird's-eye view of Dominika with her leg clearly bending the wrong way.
2. The Steam Room Altercation
We flash forward a few months. Dominika has mostly healed, though she uses a cane to walk. Her uncle, Vanya Egorov (Matthias Schoenaerts), drops by with some upsetting information: Konstantin had been cheating on Dominika, and he deliberately planned her "accident" with another ballerina in the company named Sonja (Nicole O'Neill).
Dominika plans revenge: She goes to the theater when Konstantin and Sonja have just finished rehearsing. Konstantin sneaks into the women's locker room so he can have sex with Sonja in the steam room. While they're in there, midcoitus, Dominika goes in and beats the daylights out of both of them with her metal walking cane. There's a lot of sputtering and blood and twitching.
3. The First Rape Scene
Yes, the first one. Seeing her potential as a ruthless scorned woman, Dominika's uncle sees an opportunity. He recruits her to seduce Dmitri Ustinov (Kristof Konrad), a wealthy and esteemed figure in Russia. The goal is to get him alone and swap his phone for a dummy phone. Once she does get him alone, though, he tells her to undress, throws her on the bed, and holds her down as he rips off her underwear.
As Dmitri violates Dominika, a man in a motorcycle helmet begins to choke Dmitri with a garrote wire, which is basically a very thin and very sharp weapon used in a lot of crime movies. The man in the motorcycle helmet pulls the wire so hard that Dmitri's neck begins gushing blood and squirting all over Dominika. Dmitri dies. If you hadn't already guessed.
4. The Second Rape Scene
Now that Dominika has witnessed a violent murder, she has two choices: she can die, or she can go through training to become a Russian government spy aka a Red Sparrow. Dominika obviously decides to go for the spy academy and joins 20 or so other recruits to go through the rigorous program. At one point, she shuts down another male recruit by providing the correct answer to a question after he fails to do so.
As payback, this recruit tries to rape Dominika in the communal showers. He turns her around, but she pulls one of the temperature handles loose and pummels him with it. Imagine brass knuckles, but it's just literally a metal shower handle. He gets pretty f*cked up.
5. The "Warning"
Dominika gets her first assignment: she must seduce Nate Nash (Joel Edgerton), an American agent who holds crucial intelligence that's pertinent to the Russian government. At some point, Dominika confides in her friend and roommate, Marta (Thekla Reuten). She admits she witnessed a horrifying murder cover-up. Her superiors are not happy with her, so they literally murder her friend (who, by the way, is also a Sparrow). This is not so much a moment of gratuitous onscreen violence, but it's a pretty horrible scene. Dominika comes home and finds Marta dead in the bathtub. In some places, her skin has been completely peeled off, revealing the muscle underneath. There's blood all over the walls. And she's been suffocated with a plastic bag.
Dominika's old friend, the man in the motorcycle helmet, shows up. (I should mention, by the way, that he does remove the helmet. But this seems like the easiest way to identify him.) He presses her face into Marta's corpse and warns her not to talk about Dmitri's murder ever again.
6. The Torture Montage
At one point, an important Russian asset dies, and the Russian government believes Dominika is to blame. They torture her horribly. In one scene, she's tied to a chair in the fetal position, and they blast her with (presumably scalding) water. In another, they beat her arm, shoulder, face, and back of the head with a baton. Not cute.
7. The Skin-Peeling Scene
And then, there's the pièce de résistance: a brutal torture scene involving our favorite person, the man in the motorcycle helmet. In order to figure out who's betraying the Russians, the man decides to use a tool that's normally meant for cattle. It peels off the skin in very fine slices, layer by layer, slowly exposing the muscle and bone underneath. We see him use the tool on Nate, and it looks like pure agony. We even watch the man pull the little strips of skin out of the machine. The scene will make your toes curl . . . if you can even stand to keep your eyes on the screen.
But wait, there's more! In this moment, Dominika turns on the man in the motorcycle helmet and, together with Nate, tries to kill him. He has this big ol' butcher knife, which he uses to make deep slices into Dominika and Nate. Dominika then slices the man's Achilles tendon (right above the back of his heel), which seems like one of the most painful things you can do to a human body. Eventually, she jams a small knife right into the base of his skull.
Whew. You made it through the post. Now, can you make it through the movie? Good f*cking luck.
Red Sparrow Ends With an Exceptional Twist You Won't See Coming
Warning: spoilers for Red Sparrow below!
Given the fact that Red Sparrow is a high-octane spy thriller, it should come as no surprise that it's jam-packed with twists. I mean, you'll get dizzy just following the story: Jennifer Lawrence is a Russian prima ballerina who trains to become a spy and then attempts to seduce an American agent in an attempt to figure out the identity of a mole in the Russian government. Yeah. It's a lot. But that's kind of the fun of watching the film: the best and most maddening part is that you're never really sure of what's going on. And just when you think you've figured everything out, there's one final twist that brings the whole thing home. Curious about how everything pans out? I'll do my best to break it down for you.
OK, so you have the basics: Lawrence plays Dominika Egorova, a prima ballerina whose career ends after a tragic and horrifying accident that actually isn't much of an accident at all. Thanks to her uncle Vanya (Matthias Schoenaerts), Dominika learns that her accident was sabotage, and she takes her revenge. Her uncle sees an opportunity: she has the potential to become a Red Sparrow, or a highly trained spy for the Russian government. She kind of stumbles through training, and her superiors hesitantly send her out into the field.
It's worth noting that Dominika is, throughout the movie, on a proverbial leash that's being held by her uncle. He's the one who gets her into this mess. And he's the one who continually defends her every time she f*cks up. He's the only reason the Russian government doesn't straight-up put a bullet in her head when she fails to follow orders or complete missions. Vanya is also kind of a creep. It's clear Dominika and her mother don't like him and don't think he's a good man. Dominika agrees to become a Red Sparrow because she feels like she doesn't have a choice, but she resents Vanya from the very start.
As a Sparrow, Dominika's goal is to seduce American agent Nate Nash (Joel Edgerton). Here's the first twist: once she makes contact, she essentially agrees to become a double agent. Nate "recruits" her. Things start to get murky: what side is Dominika actually on? Is she really betraying mother Russia, or is this all part of her ploy to gain the American's trust to extort information?
Eventually, Dominika f*cks up in a huge way that makes the Russians believe there is a mole on their side. More specifically, she f*cks up in a huge way that makes them think she's a mole. They torture her ruthlessly, which makes you think maybe she really was all up in the American side of things. But then she admits she was doing it just to get in close with the Americans. By the time you reach the end of the movie, it's entirely unclear. That is, until Dominika kills a Russian agent to protect Nate.
So, it's clear that Dominika really is betraying the Russian government. But then, there's another twist: one of her superiors, General Korchnoi (Jeremy Irons), knows what she's up to. He reveals that he is actually an American mole in the Russian government, and he wants her to continue his work. He has the perfect plan: if she turns him in as the mole, she will be beyond suspicion and she will be able to continue his work.
And therein lies the final twist. Dominika does turn in the mole, but she's actually spent the whole movie setting up someone else: her uncle Vanya. Through careful planning and framing, she has made him look incredibly guilty, to the point that nothing he says will be able to redeem him. And with that, there are now two American moles in the Russian government: Korchnoi and Dominika. Our Red Sparrow has achieved the desired result, and she's eliminated the man who wronged her most in the process. Iconic.
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