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Finding Small Houses in Brisbane’s Best Neighborhoods

Searching for a small house in some of Brisbane’s top areas can be both exciting and challenging. With plenty of suburbs featuring distinct amenities and ways of life, buyers should be careful when exploring the local real estate market. This guide is designed to help you discover the best neighborhoods in Brisbane, learn effective searching methods, and understand what to keep in mind when you consider buying a smaller home.

Discovering Brisbane’s Neighborhoods

Brisbane is filled with lively neighborhoods, each offering something unique. When you’re on the lookout for a small house, it’s important to think about the lifestyle, conveniences, and community culture that each suburb provides.

Living in the City

If a bustling urban life is what you crave, areas like New Farm and Fortitude Valley should be at the top of your list. Fortitude Valley comes alive with its vibrant nightlife and artistic spaces, making it a hot spot for younger crowds. In contrast, New Farm boasts lovely parks and plenty of cafés, creating a more leisurely space that attracts families and individuals alike. Both these neighborhoods typically have a selection of smaller properties, including apartments and townhouses, perfect for buyers looking back for easier upkeep.

Suburbs Ideal for Families

For those interested in raising a family, look into suburbs such as Morningside and Cannon Hill. Cannon Hill stands out for its close-knit community feeling, complete with easy access to schools, parks, and shopping areas. Likewise, Morningside features convenient amenities close to the city, catering to family life. These suburbs present numerous small home options that often come with sizable yards, which are especially nice for families with kids.

Quiet, Semi-Rural Areas

If you’re after something quieter, the semi-rural suburbs of Brisbane, like Bunya and Karalee, might be a perfect choice. Here, you can discover larger properties on more spacious lots, all nestled in attractive natural settings. Although you may stumble upon homes that are bigger than your typical small house, numerous cozy options exist for those seeking solace away from the bustling city life. The community-oriented atmosphere, good schools, and recreational areas are appealing for both families and retirees in these locales.

Helpful Tips for Finding Small Houses

Do Your Homework

Before jumping into the world of property hunting, it’s essential to do considerable research on Brisbane’s real estate market. Gaining insights into current trends, average costs, and the inner workings of different neighborhoods will place you ahead in the search process. Websites like Realestate.com.au can provide valuable listings and market data that will help clarify where you might want to look. You can also go directly to vendors like small houses brisbane to get started straight away.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

A key part of the home-buying procedure is obtaining pre-approval for financing. This step clarifies your budget and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer. Being prepared financially is vital, as it allows you to act fast when the right property appears.

Team Up with a Buyers Agent

Hiring an experienced buyers agent can make finding a small house more manageable. These professionals have access to listings that aren’t available to the general public and can offer valuable insights into possible neighborhoods. Additionally, they help during negotiations and guide you through the sometimes complicated buying steps.

Visit Properties and Bidding Events

Going to property viewings and auctions is an excellent way to learn more about the market. These experiences boost your understanding of property prices and the competition level. You can also check the conditions of the homes and see if they match what you are looking for.

Explore Off-Market Homes

Don’t forget to consider off-market listings, which are homes not publicly shared. These types of properties may offer better deals and experience less competition. Establishing connections with real estate agents in your area or working alongside a buyers agent can open doors to these limited listings.

Important Factors to Think Over

Lifestyle and Travel Time

As you choose a neighborhood, think about your personal lifestyle and how far you will have to travel daily. Areas like Belmont and Chandler represent a good mix of suburban comfort while offering easy access to major transport routes, making them extras appealing for commuters. Additionally, the closeness of schools, parks, and stores should play a role in your decision-making process, especially for families.

Security and Community

Safety is very important for most homebuyers. It’s wise to look up crime statistics in your desired neighborhoods to ensure that you choose a safe area. Neighborhoods like Toowong and Kenmore Hills are often recognized for their lower crime rates, making them attractive places for families and individuals seeking peace of mind.

Potential for Future Growth

Finally, it’s wise to think about the predicted growth of the areas you’re investigating. Locations identified for new developments or improvements to infrastructure, such as Ipswich, are often expected to experience increases in property value over time. This growth potential can be a major factor if you’re considering a long-term investment.

Finding a small home in Brisbane’s best neighborhoods calls for thoughtful planning and clear strategies. By understanding the specific features of various suburbs, conducting solid research, and seeking professional aid, you’ll successfully navigate the Brisbane property market and find a home that fits your lifestyle and needs.

How to Create a Great LinkedIn Headshot

When it comes to making a strong impression in the professional world, having a good LinkedIn profile picture is essential. Your headshot often forms the first impression for potential employers or connections, and it can really sway how they see you. In this guide, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing photos for your LinkedIn headshots to ensure you look your very best.

Dos for LinkedIn Headshots

1. Hire a Good Photographer

Try to work with a professional photographer if you can. An experienced photographer knows how to get the best angles, lighting, and overall composition, which can really improve the quality of your photo. If hiring a professional isn’t an option, ask someone with a decent camera and some photography know-how to take your picture.

2. Select High-Quality Images

Make sure your LinkedIn photo is sharp and of high quality. The ideal size for your headshot is 400 x 400 pixels, but larger images under 8MB are also acceptable. Stay away from blurry or pixelated images that might look unprofessional when others see them.

3. Position Your Face Correctly

Aim for your face to take up about 60% of the photo. This usually means cropping from the top of your shoulders to just above your head. A close shot helps people recognize you easily, which is crucial for networking and interviews.

4. Dress Appropriately for Your Industry

Your clothing should match the field you’re in and the kind of impression you want to give. Formal attire is fine for many industries, but think about what is fitting for your specific type of job. If you work in a more creative environment, consider wearing something casual yet on-trend.

5. Present a Friendly Expression

A warm smile can make you come across as approachable. Make sure your facial expression shows kindness and professionalism, as this can boost your chance of connecting with others. Steer clear of looking too serious or unfriendly in your shot.

6. Choose a Simple Background

Pick a background that is clean and doesn’t draw attention away from your face. A plain or softly blurred backdrop works best, helping keep the focus on you. If you are in a creative line of work, a colorful yet tasteful background can work if it’s used carefully.

7. Use Natural Lighting

Taking your photo with natural light can make for a stunning headshot. It often adds a soft, pleasing look that flatters your features, so avoid harsh shadows or overly bright light. Try to take the picture outside or by a window to get the best effect.

8. Keep It Fresh

Your LinkedIn picture should be current and reflect how you look now. If your hairstyle changes, or if you get a new look, think of updating your photo. You want to prevent confusion when people finally meet you face-to-face.

9. Be Solo in Your Image

Your headshot should only include you, not friends or family. This keeps things professional and makes it clear who the viewer is looking at.

10. Edit Wisely

A few photo editing tweaks can give your image a boost, but be careful not to overdo it. Small changes to brightness, contrast, and cropping can enhance the look without making it appear too fake.

Don’ts for LinkedIn Headshots

1. Skip the Selfies

Selfies usually appear unprofessional because they may not show your face well. Instead, have someone else take the picture or use a tripod for a more well-composed shot.

2. Don’t Use Distracting Props

Avoid having items in the photo that could shift attention from your face. This means skipping sunglasses, hats, and anything that blocks your features so your picture stays focused on you.

3. Avoid Busy Backgrounds

A background that’s cluttered or overly complex can distract from your professional vibe. Make sure the backdrop is simple to keep the emphasis on your face.

4. Ditch Old Photos

Using a photo from a few years back can confuse people and potentially harm your credibility. Always select a recent image that accurately shows how you present yourself today.

5. Stay Away from Casual Styles

While it’s important that your outfit reflect who you are, avoid wearing anything too laid-back like t-shirts or beach attire. Aim for a polished look that suggests you take your career seriously.

6. Refrain from Heavy Edits

While minor edits can help, steer clear of extensive editing that dramatically changes your looks. Doing so can create unrealistic expectations for when people meet you in real life.

7. Be Careful with Expressions

Avoid silly expressions or overly dramatic poses that may come off unprofessional. A natural smile or a neutral expression is effective and adds to your professionalism.

8. Don’t Share the Frame

Including anyone else in the photo can confuse viewers. Make sure your LinkedIn image is solely of you for a clear and professional presentation.

9. Avoid Casual Settings

Taking your headshot in casual or party-like settings harms your professional image. Opt for a neutral or work-appropriate environment instead.

10. Don’t Underestimate Your Photo’s Importance

Many people overlook their LinkedIn profile picture, but it is crucial. Putting in the effort to craft a great headshot can lead to better engagement and connections in your field, so make it a priority.

Wrap-Up

A great LinkedIn headshot is vital for your professional image online. By following these dos and don’ts, you’re bound to create a profile picture that not only shows off your professionalism but also makes it easier for others in your industry to connect with you. Remember, this photo is often how you are first seen online, so make sure it reflects the best version of you.

Discovering Silver Jewelry Making in Ubud, Bali

Taking part in silver jewelry making in Ubud, Bali can introduce you to an incredible mixture of culture, craftsmanship, and creativity. If you’re thinking about joining a silver jewelry class during your visit to this beautiful place, here are five great reasons why you should go for it.

Person Holding Wooden Tool With a Silver Ring

1. Get Your Hands Dirty with Creativity

When you join a silver making class, you dive right into a creative and hands-on process. You’ll have the chance to craft your own unique jewelry piece, like a ring, bracelet, or necklace, with the help of talented artisans. These classes usually last around four hours, ensuring you have enough time to learn essential skills such as shaping, soldering, and finishing silver. By engaging in this interactive activity, not only will you boost your crafting abilities, but you’ll also feel great pride seeing your very own creation take shape.

2. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Ubud boasts a rich cultural backdrop, and attending a silver making lesson provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with local art traditions. Silver jewelry making has a long-standing significance in Balinese history, and many of these classes are led by local craftspeople who share the techniques and insights passed down through generations. Through this cultural exchange, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Balinese art and its connections to community traditions, enhancing the richness of your travel experience. You’ll discover how vital silver is to Balinese heritage and the rituals it represents.

3. A One-of-a-Kind Keepsake

Making your own silver jewelry offers a truly special souvenir from your journey. Unlike items produced in bulk, a handmade piece carries personal meaning and tells the story of its creation. Whether you decide to keep it as a memento for yourself or gift it to someone special, this unique item will remind you of your moments spent in Ubud and the skills you honed during the class. Many tourists cherish these handmade creations, as they symbolize both their adventures and the artistic spirit of Bali.

4. Affordable Fun for Everyone

Join a silver making class in Ubud without stretching your budget too far, as many of these classes are very reasonably priced. Classes often begin at about 450,000 Rupiah (which is roughly $30 USD) and come with all the necessary materials plus support from experienced teachers. This affordability means you can partake in a creative endeavor without worrying much about your spending. Moreover, the classes welcome all skill levels; whether you’re a newcomer or have prior experience, there’s a spot for you to enjoy the craft.

5. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty

With its incredible natural scenery—ranging from vibrant rice fields to peaceful forests—Ubud is visually stunning. Lots of silver making studios are situated in beautiful locations, allowing you to unwind in nature as you create. Being surrounded by such breathtaking surroundings not only sparks your creativity but also provides a calm and inspiring setting. After your class, you can choose to sleuth out other attractions in Ubud, such as the Sacred Monkey Forest or the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces. This combination turns your trip into a well-rounded adventure filled with art, nature, and local culture.

In summary, engaging in silver making classes in Ubud is a fulfilling experience that combines creativity, culture, and unique travel memories. With budget-friendly options offered by skilled artisans in a stunning environment, this is one activity you shouldn’t miss when you visit Bali. Whether you’re eager to craft a personal keepsake, or if you’re simply looking to try something new, the silver making experiences in Ubud offer a perfect opportunity where artistry and local customs meet.

Scottish poet inspires Wishaw primary kids with captivating poetry workshop.

A primary school in Wishaw had a special visit from a well-known Scots poet and writer, which resulted in an exciting meal of ‘Neeps and Tatties’ for the students. The event was organized by the equality charity Nil by Mouth as part of their ‘Neeps and Tatties’ project. This project aims to use language to explore religious and cultural differences among people. The students, who were in primary six at Wishaw Primary Academy, engaged in various activities with Thomas Clarke, delving into the Scots language in preparation for Burns Night.

The highlight of the day was the reading of ‘Neeps & Tatties,’ a book written entirely in Scots by Carey Morning and illustrated by Anna York. The story revolves around two rival vegetable tribes who eventually set aside their differences and embrace a harmonious future. The book addresses important issues such as discrimination and prejudice, equipped with classroom games and activities that promote understanding of diverse cultures. It even delves into the significance of food and festivals in different traditions.

Since its launch in January 2021, ‘Neeps & Tatties’ has been used in over 1,000 schools throughout Scotland. To bring the story to life, Nil by Mouth collaborates with various Scots artists who conduct interactive sessions in classrooms. Thanks to funding from North Lanarkshire Council, 100 teachers received copies of the book, all of which were claimed within two days.

Thomas Clarke’s visit to Wishaw Primary Academy was made possible by the Scottish Book Trust’s Live Literature Programme, which supports author visits to schools and community groups across the country. The purpose of the program is to make reading more accessible to all.

Emma Alexander, Engagement Officer at Nil by Mouth, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, praising Thomas Clarke’s warm and engaging demeanor. She also mentioned the long-standing fruitful relationship between Nil by Mouth and several schools in North Lanarkshire. The collaboration with the council and the Scottish Book Trust strengthens the bond and furthers their mission of creating a tolerant and inclusive Scotland. As part of these efforts, a digital version of ‘Neeps & Tatties’ is available for free download on their website, allowing schools and families to access it easily.

Teachers have reported that ‘Neeps & Tatties’ provides an approachable way to address complex issues. Having artists like Thomas Clarke bring the story to life enhances the campaign’s impact in building a Scotland that is more progressive and accepting, moving away from bigotry.

Thomas Clarke is an influential figure in the revival of the Scots language. His achievements include translating books like ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ and George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ into Scots, contributing to the preservation and revitalization of the language.

Margaret Atwood’s The Testaments: An Incredible Page-Turner Assessed

It’s strange how certain things stick with us and other things fade from memory. Whenever I hear the title “The Handmaid’s Tale,” one particular scene from Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel comes to mind. It’s the Ceremony, the unsettling ritual where Offred, the Handmaid, is forced to have sex with the Commander while his wife watches. None of the other horrific events in the book, like hangings and cruel treatment, hold the same power as that disturbing threesome.

Offred ponders, “Which one of us has it worse, her or me?” Both women, the fertile slaves and the barren wives, suffer in their own way. The women in Gilead – Wives, Handmaids, and domestic Marthas – are stripped of their rights. They can’t work, earn, speak up, or be alone. They are denied the right to read and find pleasure. Atwood doesn’t clarify which of these is the greater injustice.

In the introduction to the 2017 edition of The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood writes, “‘It can’t happen here’ was not a reliable notion. Given the right circumstances, anything could happen anywhere.” Her forthcoming book, The Testaments, aims to answer the burning question that has intrigued readers since the publication of The Handmaid’s Tale in 1985: “How did it happen?”

The arrival of The Testaments is shrouded in secrecy, building anticipation among readers. Even obtaining a copy to review has been a challenge, with the book being as elusive as if I ordered it from Amazon. The hype and excitement surrounding its release are unprecedented. It’s a worldwide launch with midnight readings and Atwood’s appearances generating immense buzz. The windows of Waterstones bookshops glow with an acidic green hue.

When the book arrives, a courier appears dressed in motorcycle gear, bringing to mind the emblem of Gilead on his back. The book is delivered in a jiffy bag with the stamped words, “All things come to she who waits.” On the cover, there’s an image of a handmaid in her distinct cloak and bonnet, and on the back, a girl with a ponytail and a single earring, symbolizing servitude and freedom, modesty and rebellion. The green satin bookmark adds a nice touch, flickering between the pages like the serpent’s tail in the Garden of Eden—although, it was actually the serpent who initiated the fall, not Eve.

Readers of The Handmaid’s Tale and followers of the MGM/Hulu TV adaptation have been pondering whether The Testaments is a prequel or a sequel, and whether it measures up to its predecessor. The answer to the first question is both. The prequel section explores the suppressed history of Aunt Lydia, a teacher of female morality in Gilead, and how the seemingly impossible transformation to Gilead came about. Aunt Lydia reflects, “I’d believed in the ideals of life, liberty, democracy, and individual rights that I learned about in law school. I thought they were eternal truths, something we would always defend. I depended on them as if they were magic.”

The parts where Aunt Lydia describes her arrest, the end of her prestigious career, and her internment in a sports stadium resonate with the chilling indignity and intensity of French Jews awaiting deportation to Nazi death camps in the Vélodrome d’Hiver in Paris. It takes very little—filth, hunger, fear—to turn her into an unwilling servant of the regime.

The sequel sections of The Testaments are narrated by two teenage girls: Agnes, residing in Gilead, and Nicole, living in Canada. Initially, I believed I had figured out who these girls were, but now, after reading the coda that mimics the transcript from a future academic symposium on Gileadean Studies—as both The Handmaid’s Tale and The Testaments end with such a transcript—I find myself doubting my conclusions. Atwood challenges us to question what is fact, what is fiction, who manipulates evidence, and who survives to tell the story. As one character remarks, “Gilead news is saying it’s all fake.” It rings a familiar bell.

Both books feature Marthas always baking, and it seems as if Atwood is weaving her own narrative, leaving breadcrumbs for readers to follow: May Day, Moon June, Commander Judd, the Underground Female Road. These details are sure to ignite discussions among enthusiastic fans.

However, The Testaments falls short in two important aspects: voice and setting. The Handmaid’s Tale was singular, providing the perspective of one woman, Offred. We saw the world through her eyes, even staring at her bedroom ceiling. In contrast, The Testaments divides our attention and empathy between three intertwined stories: Nicole, Agnes, and Lydia. Yet, throughout it all, we remain Offred, unable to fully connect with the new characters. In terms of setting, The Handmaid’s Tale was primarily set within the confines of Offred’s small world in Gilead—a chamber piece. Offred’s Gilead consisted of her bedroom, her home, and her daily walks. She lacked a book, a job, even the knitting allowed to Serena Joy. It was the boredom, rather than the rapes, that weighed her down. She called it, “The long parentheses of nothing.”

The Testaments takes readers on a journey across various locations: buses, boats, vans, woods, rivers, seas, schools, dentists, diners, hotels, condos, charity shops, and refugee centers. As the story progresses, it transforms into a road-trip buddy film, with prayerful Agnes and fierce Nicole forming an unlikely duo. Some of Nicole’s scenes are clichéd and practically scream “film franchise moment,” reminiscent of The Hunger Games but with bonnets. There’s a montage where Nicole learns various fighting skills, a makeover scene complete with tattoos and green hair, and a chaste night shared by Nicole and the muscular yet sensitive Garth.

Agnes and Nicole, in their undeveloped and formulaic characters, pale in comparison to the complexity of Offred. One of the aspects that made The Handmaid’s Tale so captivating was Offred’s memories of a time when sex was not sinful and strictly controlled. She reminisces about the joy and seduction that came with physical intimacy. She longs to be touched and even risks her life for forbidden love. Agnes and Nicole, still innocent and untouched, do not carry the same tension surrounding sexuality.

The horrors and oppressive nature of Gilead that shocked us in The Handmaid’s Tale are revisited in The Testaments. Once you’ve encountered one horrifying birth scene or witnessed a man being torn apart by Handmaids, it becomes repetitive. Nevertheless, Atwood’s prose remains as powerful as ever, filled with tension and simplicity. She infuses certain phrases with ironic rage, highlighting terms like adulteress, precious flower, Certificate of Whiteness, fanatics, and defiled. Through clever wordplay, she forces readers to question the limitations of language and its capacity for deceit. The plot is gripping, and I finished reading the book in a mere six hours. However, if The Handmaid’s Tale was Atwood’s masterpiece, The Testaments feels like a misstep. The Handmaid’s Tale ended with uncertainty, leaving readers with the unanswerable query, “Are there any questions?” Perhaps it’s for the best that some of those questions were never addressed.

Suffolk theatres plead for council to reverse drastic arts funding cut

Theatrical companies are urging a council to reconsider its plans to cut arts funding by 100%. The Suffolk County Council unveiled its budget cuts on Wednesday, which include ending £500,000 of financial support for the arts and museums sector. The council argues that these cuts are necessary to provide additional assistance to children’s services and adult care. Douglas Rintoul, from Ipswich’s New Wolsey Theatre, expressed his disappointment, stating that it feels like the arts are being devalued.

Seven arts organizations in Suffolk have been receiving funding from the council. These include DanceEast, Eastern Angles Theatre Company, First Light Festival, The New Wolsey Theatre, Primadonna Festival, Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, and Suffolk Artlink. In a joint statement, these organizations voiced concern about how the decision will impact the people of Suffolk. They also pointed out that the funding cuts would only make a negligible difference to the council’s finances, as it represents just 0.057% of their revenue budget for 2023-24.

The council defends the cuts by claiming that they will provide more support for children’s services and adult care. Over the next two years, they intend to allocate an additional £42.7 million and £29.9 million, respectively, to these areas. However, Mr. Rintoul believes that there is a lack of appreciation for the contribution that the arts can make to the county’s health and social care systems. He is concerned that there is not enough openness to acknowledge this potential.

For Ipswich’s New Wolsey Theatre, the funding represents 80% of the subsidy committed to their engagement program, which benefits over 5,000 people. Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds uses the £100,000 funding it receives to run weekly classes for vulnerable members of society, including a sensory youth theatre for disabled and neurodivergent children. The artistic director, Owen Calvert-Lyons, expressed that they would have to make significant changes to their work due to the sizable funding cut and emphasized the importance of council support during such challenging times.

Even with the funding reductions, both New Wolsey Theatre and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds have affirmed that they will not be shutting their doors. According to Richard Rout, the council’s Conservative deputy leader and cabinet member for finance and the environment, the council has given these organizations a 12-month notice period to seek alternative funding sources. He acknowledged the value of the arts and museums and assured that the council has carefully scrutinized its spending.

The council’s proposals will be put to a vote during a full council meeting on February 15th.

From Page to Screen: Spider-Verse Reshaping the Comic Movie Landscape

When it comes to the new film Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, the cinematic landscape has changed since its predecessor. Back in 2018, the idea of a multiverse, where different versions of Spider-Man exist, was fresh. But now, this concept has become common in comic book films, especially within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, instead of capitalizing on the visual uniqueness of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which drew inspiration from superhero comic books, the focus has shifted to expanding the franchise possibilities of the multiverse. This misses the true appeal of the first film, which was its innovative use of visuals. In Spider-Verse, the multiverse meant breaking rules rather than following a formula.

The first Spider-Verse film stood out because of its fresh artistic style, blending traditional animation and comic book art with new technology. It evoked a sense of nostalgia by incorporating elements from classic comic books. As a result, Miles Morales, a relatively new character in the Marvel comics, felt timeless and just as iconic as Peter Parker.

Unlike other superhero movies that merely borrow certain elements from comic books, the Spider-Verse films bring the dynamism of comic books to life. They successfully combine the language of animation and film with that of comic books. For example, they incorporate onscreen written sound effects, like the iconic “thwip!” of Spider-Man. They also use “burst cards,” 2D drawings that appear during action sequences for emphasis. These moments feel like frozen panels come to life on the big screen.

What sets the Spider-Verse films apart is their execution of the textures and tactile qualities of print, something rarely seen in comic book movies. They utilize halftone, Ben-Day dots, and “Kirby Krackle” (clusters of dots used to represent cosmic energy) to enhance the visual experience. The production designer of Into the Spider-Verse, Justin K Thompson, stressed the importance of embracing the imperfections of print during the animation process. This includes implementing chromatic aberration, which recreates the accidental color separations and mismatched colors that occur in the four-color printing process.

Through a team of over 1000 artists and animators, Across the Spider-Verse takes the sensory overload of the first film to new heights. It experimentally explores what a Spider-Man story can be in terms of visuals. The film amplifies every formal element of its predecessor, such as animating certain characters at 12 frames per second (on twos) rather than the standard 24 frames per second (on ones) for 3D animation. This slight delay between frames creates a flipping page effect, enhancing the experience for the audience.

With the introduction of the character Spider-Punk/Hobie Brown, voiced by Daniel Kaluuya, the animators do something even more impressive. They animate different parts of the character at different speeds, reflecting his anarchic nature and creating a dynamic visual effect. Instead of simply moving on ones or twos, his body moves “on threes,” and his guitar moves “on fours.” This breathes life into his character and takes advantage of animation’s potential for creative expression.

In Across the Spider-Verse, the visual palette expands even further to reflect the vastness of comic book artistry. The film explores different universes in the multiverse, paying homage to various artists’ styles. For instance, Gwen Stacy/Spider-Woman’s universe showcases the expressive brushwork reminiscent of Robbi Rodriguez’s cover art for the Spider-Gwen comic. The directors made a conscious effort to incorporate the identities of more artists into the film. They studied the inking techniques of Rick Leonard, co-creator of Spider-Man 2099, while developing the visual style for the character. The film’s take on Ben Reilly, known as Scarlet Spider, derives inspiration from Tom Lyle’s original character designs, while also playfully poking fun at the brooding nature of 1990s comics. By exploring different art styles throughout the decades, Across the Spider-Verse embraces evolution and challenges the conformities of superhero canon and tropes.

The main villain of Across the Spider-Verse, The Spot, illustrates the film’s embrace of imperfections. Along with Spider-Man 2099, these characters maintain their underlying geometric sketch lines, resembling unfinished drawings. The Spot adds another layer with his appearance, covered in dark splotches against a white background, resembling a page with spilled ink. This visual irregularity reflects the character’s sense of being an accidental byproduct of someone else’s adventure, emphasizing his misshapenness. As Miles and The Spot travel between different universes in the sequel film, the visual non-conformity becomes not just aesthetic but thematic. It represents Miles’s resistance against being boxed into a predefined narrative by teachers and fellow Spider-People.

Often, contemporary superhero movies borrow storylines from comic books while failing to capture their essence. The Spider-Verse films, on the other hand, honor the true spirit of comic books. They go beyond mere adaptations and dive into the expressive potential of animation. In these films, the visuals are not just complementary; they are an integral part of the storytelling. Through their unique approach, the Spider-Verse films have inspired a new wave of varied and stylized animation in recent releases. They have reminded Hollywood of the importance of the entire creative team behind comic books, from colorists to pencillers, inkers, letterers, and cover artists. As opposed to treating comics as nothing more than intellectual properties, the Spider-Verse films break free from the formula and explore the true potential of comic book movies.

LSE remains London’s leading educational institution.

LSE has maintained its position as the number one university in London and fourth in the UK according to the latest edition of the Guardian’s Best UK Universities 2024 league table.

In addition to this overall achievement, LSE also received high rankings in various academic disciplines. The School claimed the top spot in ‘Accounting and Finance’. It secured a position in the top five for eight other subject areas, including Geography, Anthropology, International Relations, Management, Government, Sociology and Social Policy, Philosophy, and Law. Notably, all ranked subjects fell within the top six.

The rankings are determined by multiple factors, such as the quality of teaching, student-to-staff ratio, and potential career prospects.

LSE’s success extends beyond the Guardian’s league table. It recently ranked fifth overall in a newly established university league table by the Daily Mail. Moreover, it emerged as a joint front-runner in the UK for graduate salaries and secured second place in the country for continuation rates.

Expressing his views on this remarkable achievement, LSE’s interim President and Vice Chancellor, Eric Neumayer, attributed these excellent results to the unflagging efforts of the academic and professional services staff who are relentlessly committed to delivering a world-class education.

“As a School, we maintain our dedication to the global impact of social sciences, continuously producing exceptional research and teaching. Collectively, we strive to make positive contributions to shape the future of the world,” added Neumayer.

These achievements coincide with the recent opening of LSE’s latest state-of-the-art facility, the Marshall Building. This cutting-edge establishment accommodates various academic departments, along with a sports center, music practice rooms, and a café. Impressively, the building has also received excellent ratings for its sustainability initiatives, further solidifying LSE’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

LSE has also garnered recognition in various other areas including winning the prestigious Outstanding Entrepreneurial University award at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards last autumn. Additionally, the School made waves by introducing a groundbreaking master’s course on AI Management this spring. Moreover, LSE has taken substantial steps towards promoting diversity and inclusivity by launching several new initiatives aimed at increasing participation among underrepresented students in higher education.

This summer, LSE ranked first among London universities in the Complete University Guide 2024. Furthermore, in previous years, the School earned acclaim as one of the leading universities in the world according to the Times Higher Education World University rankings. Notably, LSE also secured the top spot in terms of world-leading research produced in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) in the previous year.