APRIL 15, 1992

Full News Archive

• Headline: Oakland's Battle Against Rising Violence. Impact: As Oakland struggled with its murder rate, this led to a nationwide trend of cities discussing violence like it was a hot new diet fad. In a bizarre twist, the phrase 'soul-searching' became synonymous with more political meetings that accomplished nothing, while local coffee shops flourished, serving lattes named after victims.. Fact: Did you know that before 'soul-searching' became the go-to phrase for city leaders, it was actually used by people trying to find their lost keys? True story..
• Headline: Patrick Swayze's Calcutta Drama Unveiled. Impact: Patrick Swayze's role in 'Down and Out in Calcutta' inadvertently inspired a whole generation of actors to take on roles that pushed the boundaries of their star power, leading to an unexpected rise in films set in obscure locations—thank you, Swayze, for 'Ghosts of Guwahati.'. Fact: Did you know Patrick Swayze was actually a ballet dancer before becoming a heartthrob? That explains why he could move like a ghost!.
• Headline: Police Thriller Explores Complex Issues. Impact: This thrilling cop drama sparked an entire genre of 'cops acting as criminals,' leading to the inevitable rise of shows where the protagonists are more morally ambiguous than your average politician. Who knew crime could pay so well in Hollywood?. Fact: Did you know that the term 'cop' is short for 'copper'? It's a nod to their shiny badges, not their shiny personalities..
• Headline: Review/Film; Sex, Sci-Fi, Videotape and a Dead Woman. Impact: This eclectic mix of genres led to a cinematic explosion of 'weird' films that left audiences confused and critics scrambling to invent new terms like 'surreal-core' and 'sci-fi soft-core,' effectively ruining movie night for generations to come.. Fact: Did you know that the term 'soft-core' was actually invented by filmmakers who couldn't find a soft spot in their hearts for traditional narratives? Talk about a stretch!.