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Chalk N Duster review: It’s a well told ethics versus greed story

The theme of greed over ethics works well for the film and most of its characters are in sync with the narrative. what makes chalk n duster rise above the average is its futuristic approach. sometimes it does seem like an application to seek favours for teachers but mostly it talks about the value of good education..

Chalk N Duster Director: Jayant Gilatar Cast: Shabana Azmi, Juhi Chawla, Zarina Wahab, Arya Babbar, Divya Dutta, Rishi Kapoor, Richa Chadda Rating: 3.5/5

We all have had our tryst with public schools; know how they function and now somebody has cared to make a film on these “modern temples of education”. It has turned out to be a brilliant effort that reinstates our faith in good teachers and their value in our lives. Also, it raises questions on the utility of schools that promise everything but good textbook-driven education.

Chalk N Duster is mostly about the management of a popular public school Kantaben High School where Indu Ji (Zarina Wahab) is the principal. Kamini Gupta (Divya Dutta), who can’t see education and business in seclusion, is her deputy. Vidya Sawant (Shabana Azmi) and Jyoti Thakur (Juhi Chawla) are senior and much-loved teachers who put their students above everything. Has it started to remind you of Shahid Kapoor-starrer Paathshaala? Well, that film was also based on a similar theme. But this one dares to venture beyond the school’s staffroom.

Watch: Shabana Azmi, Juhi Chawla in Chalk N Duster trailer

One fine day, the management decides to pass the chairman’s baton to an ambitious, foreign-educated hothead. Played by Arya Babbar, the new chief wants to make the school more presentable to the rich and mighty, thereby triggering a conflict with Vidya and Jyoti. In no time, it becomes a direct war between the management and teachers. But who is on the right side of the fence? Why should a public school bother about the people who can’t pay enough? Who is responsible for such a situation where teachers are bound to become order-following clerks? Can a teacher induce the habit of free thinking in students in such a scenario? Do teachers really need to be seen as gurus?

Those who’re familiar with the practice of PTAs in public schools would know the four-layered security wall around the management. Crossing the reception doesn’t make it easier for parents as they still have to encounter the class teachers, supervisors and some other people to meet the person who actually has the authority to take decisions. What would happen if any of these is a control-freak? It would immediately break the chain of communication and ultimately the message will not reach the right people.

It may sound like a multinational set-up. But it’s much more complicated than that. Multinationals are constantly evolving and communication has slowly become the most important word for high-flying executives. It’s different in schools where the core importance should be on pupils, not the other way round. Also, in our current education system which emphasizes more on bookish learning, the most prominent parameter to judge a student’s excellence is by taking a written test, maybe followed by an interview. Can teachers with experience but less modern outlook cope with the new blood here?

Chalk N Duster touches upon these issues and marches forward in an attempt to make it an entertaining watch. As a result, Divya’s character transforms into a pure devil — power hungry and cunning to the core.

I must praise director Jayant Gilatar here who has made this journey an emotional one. Don’t be surprised if you keep crying through the second half.

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Traditionally teachers are understood to be a student’s fate controller in our society. But things are changing. Parents are demanding more scientifically-proven teaching methods for their children and they’re paying — often unwillingly — a hefty price. What options does the management have in order to strike equilibrium? What if the management lacks vision?

The pathetic state of government-run municipal schools has also been given a share of the spotlight. The stark difference between government and public schools needs to be bridged. Now is the time to act.

Chalk N Duster is an underdog story which reminds us of our childhood where teachers didn’t want much in return of their services. Nevertheless, everybody is equal in front of inflation, even teachers. The need for more money is going to be there. So, what’s the way out? Chalk N Duster refrains from any direct confrontation at this juncture.

Having said that, it still is a finely-crafted work which brings out the pride only a teacher can have. You can witness the meaning of being a teacher in Shabana’s eyes. She is fiery, determined, benevolent and hardworking. Juhi is her perfect companion. She has given a heartwarming performance. These two ladies make sure that Chalk N Duster remains in your subconscious for some time. Rishi Kapoor’s cameo is also worth watching. His screen presence lifts up the climax by several notches.

The theme of greed over ethics works well for the film and most of its characters are in sync with the narrative. What makes Chalk N Duster rise above the average is its futuristic approach. Sometimes it does seem like an application to seek favours for teachers but mostly it talks about the value of good education. These teachers are hardworking and ready to take challenges head on, and that makes them adorable.

Chalk N Duster is a film worth your time. It’s fast, dramatic and meaningful. Simply put, a good watch.

(Interact with Rohit Vats at Twitter/ @nawabjha )

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Rohit Vats is a film journalist who loves to read in between the lines. He can spend hours watching films and cricket matches. Also a script consultant. ...view detail

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Chalk n Duster (2016) – A Complete Analysis

Jyoti (Juhi Chawla) and her senior Vidya (Shabana Azmi) are teachers working under Principal Indu Shastry (Zarina Wahab). The management replaces Indu with the supervisor Kamini Gupta (Divya Dutta), who wants to replace all the teachers with new ones. When Vidya is thrown out saying that her teaching is outdated, the senior teacher gets a heart attack. Jyoti creates a revolution throughout the social media by publicizing about the incident and Kamini and the management have to succumb to the pressure. They decide to have a quiz contest akin to Kaun Banega Karorepati (Who will be a millionaire) where both the teachers have to display their knowledge. How they win the quiz contest is the story all about. Here’s the complete analysis of Chalk n Duster (2016).

It is not all that easy as above. The following is the stark reality:

• The movie shows that the management decides to remove all chairs from the classes. But, this is not a unique case. Today, most schools do not have chairs in the classes. The management says that teachers are not supposed to sit. This is utterly inhuman. I wonder how our teachers could teach well by sitting on a chair in the class when we were students.
• The policy of many school managements is to overfill the classes, the students may or may not fit the space. This aspect is not being highlighted in any of the movies I have seen about teaching, until now. Many teachers have permanently lost their voices shouting in a class of 80 + students.
• New age teachers are afraid of the students because they are thrown out of the school due to the complaint of the notorious students. Very few students are interested in studies.
• Temples of knowledge have no value for knowledge. Knowledgeable but new teachers are grudgingly isolated by the seniors.
• You get the support of colleagues only when you have experience in that particular school. Newcomers are also isolated by them, saying, “Nobody listens to people earning less.” I have been wondering how these people get to know how much the new teachers earn and gossip about it.
• Jyoti gets time to do yoga in the morning before going to school. In reality, there is no time in the morning for any kind of exercise. The previous night, you would have completed the correction of worksheets very late at night. Getting up in the morning is an ordeal.
• Though the 3 songs written by Javed Akhtar Sahab and composed by Sandesh Shandilya are good, there could have been more of them.

Chalk n Duster (2016) songs

Jingle Bodmass…

Deep shiksha ke hain…

Aye zindagi…

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Aye zindagi – sonu nigam – sandesh shandilya | chalk n duster (2016), deep shiksha ke hain – alka yagnik – sandesh shandilya – juhi chawla | chalk n duster (2016), jingle bodmas – shabana azmi – sandesh shandilya – shabana azmi | chalk n duster (2016), composer sandesh shandilya’s 2010s songs, leave a reply cancel reply.

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'Chalk N Duster' review: Shabana Azmi, Juhi Chawla power through in this classroom drama

Chalk ‘N’ Duster is not great cinema by any stretch of the imagination. But its heart is in the right place.

Is calling a film a ‘sincere melodrama’ an oxymoron? Not necessarily. Sometimes it takes a hammer to drive in a stubborn nail.

Slow clap for Jayant Gilatkar for making a film that moves gingerly, aside from conventional definitions of mainstream entertainment and yet retains the massy genre’s flavour and mood. Distinctly old-fashioned in the treatment of its subject, Chalk ‘N’ Duster seeks narrative sustenance from its heartwarming message of reverence and love for the over-worked under-paid teachers of the country.

The perception of passionately dedicated teachers toiling over the present and future of their students may be seen to be somewhat repetitibe. Chalk N Duster  is like  To Sir With Love,  multiplied by 10 and gender reversed.

However, the convincing performances by Shabana Azmi and Juhi Chawla as schoolteachers who see their vocation as a means to nurture and enlighten impressionable minds, ensures that the film’s rough edges and hammered-in message don’t get trampled over by our cynicism.

Indeed the two actresses bring so much mutual sincerity to their roles as idealistic knowledge providers that we surrender to the film’s simplistic equations of dedicated teachers versus an ogre of principal, played with persuasive relish by Divya Dutta who gives the vampish role a certain distinctive edge. Dutta is the conniving force. Her confrontation scenes with Shabana and Juhi, particularly the former, could have been more dynamic if they weren’t so didactic.

Shabana struggles to provide nuances to her uni-dimensional character. Even while mouthing dialogues like, “Everyone knew Sita was pure but she still had to go through agnee-pariksha” she remains in control of her character’s schmaltzy bearings. She has a lovely telephonic scene from a hospital bed with her screen husband which reminds us how greatness for an actor is inborn and indelible.

Juhi too is in form here, delivering a lengthy and hardhitting monologue on teacher’s right that ought to win the film its tax exemption all over the country.

Chalk N Duster  rises to a watchable level from the two actresses. But it never allows us to forget its noble intentions. The teachers wear their halo 24/7. The director sticks to the straight and narrow path of story-telling, opting for a narrative that favours direct homilies.

Yet the film moves you with its forcefully erected moral house of cards. The earnestness with which the director tackles the issue of exploited educationists cannot go unheeded. Chalk ‘N’ Duster draws attention to itself through sheer transparency directness and straight-talk.

The plot weaves in a domestic life for Shabana and Juhi, with Girish Karnad and Samir Soni as their respective husbands trying hard not to seem like shadowy figures. Unfortunately the male characters are all sketchy and outsourced.

In fact, the most vivacious male character shows up at the climax. Rishi Kapoor’s appearance in the finale as quiz host shows how an accomplished actor can create space for himself even when the situation provided is far from convincing. Jackie Shroff, playing a Good Education Entrepreneur(as opposed to Aarya Babbar’s Bad Education Entrepreneur) is not only wasted, he also serves up the most hammy salute to womanhood ever put on screen.

The Shabana-Juhi bonding gives the film its special spin. Joining them midway for some more girl power is Richa Chadha as a Barkha Dutta-like tv journalists (why must all female TV journalists in our movies be Barkha-inspired?)

Chalk ‘N’ Duster is not great cinema by any stretch of the imagination. It is often crude and unapologetic in its melodramatic pitch. But its heart is in the right place. It is a decent conscientious attempt to depict the bond between teachers and the taught. Shabana’s Vidya and Juhi’s Jyoti (vidya and jyoti, get it?) are more aspirational than real. There is irony there. Because the treatment of the subject is more street-play blunt than aspirational.

Subhash K Jha is a Patna-based journalist. He's been writing about Bollywood for long enough to know the industry inside out. see more

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Chalk N’ Duster review: Nothing rescues this Juhi Chawla, Shabana Azmi film

Chalk n’ duster review: it is a subject that deserves a great deal of attention, but not in the way this juhi chawla, shabana azmi film does it..

That education should not be a business is something we all believe in. We also know just exactly how much the lure of filthy lucre has driven teaching, the noblest profession, into a corner : the `good’ teachers who want to selflessly impart knowledge are getting scarcer, and the `bad’ guys with calculators and power point presentations are taking over.

It is a subject that deserves a great deal of attention, but not in the way ‘Chalk N’ Duster’ does it. The treatment is amateurish in the extreme, reducing the conflict to good teachers vs greedy gobblers of money and fame. Kantaben School, run by the just principal (Zarina Wahab) sees a hostile take-over by a `desi’ scheming Cruela De Vil-type togged out in designer saris and a permanent snarl ( Dutta). The teachers who are there because they love what they do, especially the middle-aged maths teacher (Shabana Azmi) and the younger, chirpier teacher of science (Juhi Chawla) and the other like-minded people are left stranded. The rest of it pans out exactly as we expect it to, minus subtleties or nuance, plus heavy-handed sanctimony.

Which is a pity, because these are all good actresses, and it is so difficult to have women in a film doing something meaningful, other than singing and dancing and playing second fiddle. In the second half, both Chawla and Azmi’s characters get the chance to be emotional and tug at our heart-strings. When they are on screen, we stay watching even when the situations and dialogues are wince-making. Dutta, who is usually so reliable, is reduced to a one-dimensional evil schemer. And Chaddha shows up as a bustling crusading TV journalist who goes where the cause is, both on the street and in the studio.

Rajkumar Hirani’s ‘Munnabhai MBBS’ still remains the go-to film on how the educational system is going down the drain, and what we can do to save it. But nothing rescues this one, not Jackie Shroff nor Rishi Kapoor (in bit parts), nor the sprightly ladies, despite their game attempts.

One and a half stars.

Star Cast: Shabana Azmi, Juhi Chawla, Divya Dutta , Arya Babbar, Zarina Wahab, Jackie Shroff, Rishi Kapoor Director : Jayant Gilatar

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Chalk N Duster

Richa Chadha (Journalist) Shabana Azmi (Vidya) Arya Babbar (Anmol) Gavie Chahal Juhi Chawla (Jyoti) Karan Singh Chhabra (Vidya's Student) Deepali Divya Dutta (Kamini Gupta) Adi Irani Rishi Kapoor (Special Appearance)

Jayant Gilatar

CHALK N DUSTER is an emotional journey of two teachers Vidya ( Shabana Azmi) & Jyoti ( Juhi Chawla) , serving at a Mumbai - based High School. Their passion and love for teaching, bonds them in a special relationship with their students. Their gratification is good grades, moral values they strive to impart to students.However, in an evil turn of events, a wicked lady, Kamini Gupta ( Divya Dutta) gets appointed as the School Principal, who earlier worked in the capacity of a Supervisor. She is extremely cunning by nature and monopolizes on every opportunity she can find her hands on. In a bid to make profits for the school, she decides to fire experienced teachers to replace them with fresher teachers. The saved funds of which she can boastfully present to the school trustees, at the cost of quality education. Vidya suffers a sudden heart attack due to her dismissal from school. The school management threatens the staff to cut ties with Vidya. At such a time, Jyoti stands up for her friend and colleague, Vidya. Together they fight to earn their respect and credibility as teachers and unite against prejudices set by the management.

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Users' Reviews

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Piyush Singhal 1233 days ago

Excellent Movie, Not sure why your give 2.5 ???

mj 1312 days ago

That is a mind blowing movie

Amit jain 1407 days ago

good inspirational movie for true teachers and school management

Happytimes User 1436 days ago

one time watch

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Chalk N Duster

• CHALK N DUSTER is an emotional journey of two teachers Vidya ( Shabana Azmi) & Jyoti ( Juhi Chawla) , serving at a Mumbai - based High School. Their passion and love for teaching, bonds them in a special relationship with their students. Their gratification is good grades, moral values they strive to impart to students.However, in an evil turn of events, a wicked lady, Kamini Gupta ( Divya Dutta) gets appointed as the School Principal, who earlier worked in the capacity of a Supervisor. She is extremely cunning by nature and monopolizes on every opportunity she can find her hands on. In a bid to make profits for the school, she decides to fire experienced teachers to replace them with fresher teachers. The saved funds of which she can boastfully present to the school trustees, at the cost of quality education. Vidya suffers a sudden heart attack due to her dismissal from school. The school management threatens the staff to cut ties with Vidya. At such a time, Jyoti stands up for her friend and colleague, Vidya. Together they fight to earn their respect and credibility as teachers and unite against prejudices set by the management. — Production House
• CHALK N DUSTER is an emotional journey of two teachers Vidya ( Shabana Azmi) and Jyoti ( Juhi Chawla) , serving at a Mumbai - based High School. Their passion and love for teaching, bonds them in a special relationship with their students. Their gratification is good grades, moral values they strive to impart to students. However, in an evil turn of events, a wicked lady, Kamini Gupta ( Divya Dutta) gets appointed as the School Principal, thus changing the fate of the administration. The drama unfolds in theaters from 15th of January, 2016. — Production House
• The film is the emotional journey of two teachers Vidya (Shabana Azmi) and Jyoti (Juhi Chawla) who serving at a Mumbai-based high school. Their passion and love for teaching bonds them in a special relationship with their students. Their gratification is good grades and the moral values they strive to impart to students. However, in an evil turn of events, a wicked lady, Kamini Gupta (Divya Dutta), is appointed as the principal, thus changing the fate of the administration. Vidya is one of the senior staff members at this fair to middling educational institution, which has thus far functioned smoothly. Everything changes with the appointment of the new principal. The teachers face unpleasant surprises when the popular and considerate Indu (Zarina Wahab) is replaced by the ambitious and cut-throat Kamini, who aspires to upscale this middle-class school. She wants to have modern facilities like swimming pools and AC classrooms, attended by young teachers, to change the image of the school. She cannot remove the tenured teachers, so decides to make their life difficult and forcing them to quit. Teachers' chairs are removed from the classrooms, the tea is no longer free and subjects are juggled so that, for example, the overweight Hindi teacher is now assigned physical training. Fees for students is increased and admissions made more selective to admit only upper class children. Teachers are also forced to pay the fees for their kids studying in the school, as all exemptions are removed. All of this is too much for the good nature person Vidya, who suffers a heart attack after a sudden and unfair dismissal. In solidarity, her friend and colleague Jyoti decides to take on Kamini and the misdirected board of trustees, led by Anmol (Arya Babbar). This entails using a TV channel as a platform for reminding viewers that teachers need support, recognition and more pay. Kamini tries to buy off Jyoti by promoting her to an admin job as supervisor and giving her husband a large order for computer supplies for the school. Jyoti responds by confronting Kamini in front of the entire teacher staff, but shockingly none of the teachers support Jyoti in her tirade against Kamini. Jyoti is forced to resign from the school. The outpouring of public sympathy, due to the favorable media coverage means that ex-students testify to the competence of Vidya and Jyoti and expose the school management's decision to terminate both as arbitrary. It also means that Vidya receives enough crowd sourced money to pay off her entire medical bill. She is soon on the path to recovery when an ex-student turns out to be the heart cardio-surgeon of the hospital and takes her under his personal care. TO counter this, Kamini devises a plan to entice Jyoti and Vidya into a Who wants to be a millionaire type quiz. The prize money is big, but unknown to anyone, the questions are designed by Kamini herself to ensure that Jyoti and Vidya lose and expose their incompetence to the entire world. The drama ends with a recovered Vidya and Jyoti taking on a Who Wants to Be A Millionaire-style quiz to win Rs.5 crore. The trade-off is that if they lose, they will have to accept their termination, but if they win, they get the Rs 5 crores, reinstatement of their jobs and a public apology from Kamini and the school board. Vidya and Jyoti use their talents and win the quiz battle. Unwillingly, the trustee Anmol signs the bank check of 5 crore rupees. The principal Kamini apologizes to Vidya and Jyoti publicly through over the TV show. At the end, Vidya reveals that she will be handing over the money to former principal Indu to build a school where no teacher will be discriminated against and students will have a good education for less cost.

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Chalk N Duster

A moving film about teachers that could have done without its melodramatic scenes

This film has got all the right ideas. It talks about how education has become big business, and about how the values associated with the vocation and true meaning of good teaching are at threat. When an educational institution decides that attracting students from well-off sections of society is the only objective, the quality of learning suffers. So clearly, Chalk N Duster has its heart in the right place. Unfortunately, the execution of the film includes a few outrageously melodramatic scenes, and these clichés take a lot away from the overall impact.

Jyoti (Juhi Chawla) is a science teacher and Vidya (Shabana Azmi) teaches maths at Kantaben High School in Mumbai. One fine day, the management of the school decides to appoint the tough and hard-hearted Kamini (Divya Dutta) as its new Principal. She promptly starts treating the school’s good teachers like dirt so that they hand in their resignations, her aim being to appoint younger and well-heeled replacements who she expects will attract kids from richer homes that can afford to pay much higher fees.

But the idealistic teachers resist and the electronic media gets involved in the injustice of it all. Battle lines are drawn, and this is where the movie goes over the deep end. A TV reporter (Richa Chadda) turns the imbroglio into a big soap opera with celebrity alumni of the school popping up on screen to wax eloquent, poignantly and with nostalgia, about the beautiful memories they have of their teachers, in particular of their inventive maths teacher Vidya. As you listen to what Jyoti and Vidya have to say about their profession and their contribution to society, the eloquence and passion with which they speak starts to move you.

Imperceptibly, the film starts connecting with the audience and you start applauding the exceptional integrity of these women. It is uncanny how it happens. So, for all the needless melodrama, it leaves an impression.

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Chalk N Duster review: A film with good intent but badly presented

Chalk n duster is classic proof of how to shoddily treat topics which merit attention: the mistreatment of teachers in the private education system and the commercialisation of the education system..

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Sometimes movies with the right intent misfire badly. Chalk N Duster is classic proof of how to shoddily treat topics which merit attention: the mistreatment of teachers in the private education system and the commercialisation of the education system. The result is that instead of seriously dwelling on the occupational hazards of the profession and the dire straits the system finds itself in, audiences are left with moments to chuckle and wince at.

Welcome to Kantiben High School, a private school run by a Gujarati trust. Vidya (Shabana Azmi) is an algebra teacher with a different educational approach so much so she uses a rhyming song to explain a formula to the students. But she is no Jack Black from the School of Rock.

She is a serious, devoted teacher who uses the crowded Mumbai local daily to commute, shop for veggies and play chess with her wheel-chair bound husband (Girish Karnad). Jyoti (Juhi Chawla) is a happy-go-lucky science teacher who mimics her colleagues and Bollywood actors but is also worried about the authoritarian new principal (Divya Dutta), who is but obviously called "Hitler" behind her back.

For a film that wants to change the system, Chalk N Duster is unapologetic in resorting to stereotypes. Hitler here wants Kantiben to be number one which means to open the school's doors to kids of the rich and famous, hike the fees, hire "young, pretty, smart, upmarket teachers" and force the existing staff out. Supporting her decisions is the trust's director (Aryan Babbar), who wears a badge like "Suits suck". Things go further downhill from here.

Chalk N Duster is the sort of film where a hospital is named Health Care Hospital, in which a TV news reporter (Richa Chadda) just walks in and takes video byte of a distressed relative and a woman in ICU. A Principal makes bewildering statements such as "I hate question marks. I like full stops" and says "out of the blues".

A husband refers to himself as "the hard disk" and his child as "the processor". It's idea of comedy is when a teacher imagines beating up her supervisor and laughing like a loony. Students here express gratitude to their teachers by sending them SMSes saying, "Good Morning" and walking with placards reading "We Love You". Rishi Kapoor is roped in to make a bid for the next host of Kaun Banega Crorepati. One can't help but feel sorry for the actors as they are given one silly line after another to say. It's no surprise then that Shabana Azmi has a red eye by the end of the film's two hour running time.

Gilatar's directorial approach is amateurish to say the least with the general knowledge quiz contest a real low in the film. Chalk N Duster is overtly preachy and mawkish. It likes to get its point across - urgent call for reform - by shouting from the rooftops. Poorly shot and sloppily edited, Chalk N Duster is a film with relevant issues which are sadly presented like a dated saas-bahu show on TV. Published By: AtMigration Published On: Jan 15, 2016 --- ENDS ---

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Chalk N Duster

wogma rating: Watch if you have nothing better to do ( ? )

A movie about teachers gets predictably preachy. No surprises there. It fails to teach in an interesting way despite being in the capable hands of Shabana Azmi , Juhi Chawla and Divya Dutta .

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Chalk N Duster comes across as a personal film. As in the writer/director/producer has either had a teacher in his life who he wanted to pay a tribute to or know of a teacher or two who have been insulted by the people who make education a business. The unempathatic attitude towards teachers in general is attacked with single-minded focus. While not a bad premise in itself, the discrepancies within the theme and real life are too large to stop nagging for even one minute of the film.

The film is set in a private school where real-life teachers are treated much better than the way shown in the film. The issues of the teachers in government schools are not addressed at all. Which is alright, if the story is about a private school. But then, it doesn't stay a story of a private school but becomes one in which the common man gets involved and there is huge drama with teachers having to take a test.

I haven't been able to wrap my head around the logical flow of the premise though. If the matter is of national interest, it is a social issue. If the issue is social, then the representative example used to resemble something in real life. In which case, a private school with ample funding doesn't fit the bill. Here we completely ignore the fact that most real-life teachers aren't really great teachers. This is also the opportune place to mention the irony of the 'and' in the film's title being spelt as 'n'. Is that the makers' way of saying their methods are not outdated?

As with any movie that doesn't make logical sense, you accept the premise and focus on the execution. There too Chalk N Duster fails big time. Too much time is spent in coloring the vamp darker and darker. Even if we resist complaining about the time spent in making the victimized teachers good at heart and loving by nature, the mechanisms used to demonstrate these are sappy and unengaging.

Despite all of the above, the film manager to tug you emotionally for a bit in the second half. When villains are all black, they have to be menacing and capable of all things inhuman. Divya Dutt as the principal, Kamini Sharma manages to make you hate her within the first few seconds of screen time. Similarly, Shabana Azmi evokes enough sympathy to root for her character, Mrs. Sawant. So restrained is her performance in a role that could have been laden with drama that Juhi Chawla 's controlled (non-shrieking), Jyoti.

This is all soon undone with a ridiculous climax. To start with, it reinforces the Indian education system's obsession with rote learning. Then there's testing the teacher's knowledge instead of teaching skills. Lastly, the concept itself is too lame for the amount of buildup towards the climax.

Save a few good performances then, Chalk N Duster is just another story about honest, diligent workers vs. big, bad management; about the common man vs. the system. Other than the 'education' angle there is nothing new, which is a shame because this angle actually has a lot of scope to be novel. Especially when it was in the capable hands of Shabana Azmi , Juhi Chawla and Divya Dutta .

- meeta, a part of the audience

17 reviewers ( ? ) - 4 yays 8 so-so 5 nays

Warning: clicking on "full review" will take you to an external website that could contain spoilers.

Thumbs up, by Gayatri Gauri, FirstPost : ...The very fact that we have a decent, heartwarming story with three women, who are neither glamorous or young — playing central characters — is reason enough to applaud Chalk n Duster. More power to middle aged heroines who deserve as much screen space as the 50-year-olds Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Rohit Vats, Hindustan Times : ...Chalk N Duster is a film worth your time. It’s fast, dramatic and meaningful. Simply put, a good watch. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Divya Solgama, Star Blockbuster : ...On an overall basis, ‘Chalk N Duster’ is a decent film narrating a soulful lesson. Despite of its tacky presentation and outdated looks, the movie will be still cherished by the feel good type of simple film lovers as it has a strong undercurrent along with few great actors and proper soul attached to it. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Shaheen Raaj, Star Blockbuster : ...Last Word: The film will pick up in the multiplexes as well as the single theatre's mainly by word of mouth publicity. - See more at: http://starblockbuster.com/chalk-n-duster-0#sthash.VIBg8Loe.dpuf... full review

So-So, by Kusumita Das, Deccan Chronicle : ...A little more finesse could have helped Chalk n Duster emerge a topper in the genre. With a subject like this, telling the story well was as important as telling it at all. Unfortunately, for now it better hide its report card. ... full review

So-So, by Smita Vyas Kumar, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - A movie with a solid heart. May be amateurish and maudlin in parts but deserves a watch for what it conveys. ... full review

So-So, by Ameet Bhuvan, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - If only meaning well was enough to make a film good ... full review

So-So, by Johnson Thomas, Free Press Journal : ...Written by Ranjeev and Neetu Verma, ‘Chalk N Duster’ focuses on painting a likeable picture about teachers, their tough job requirements and their ability to instill heavy doses of knowledge in their wards. And the bad guys are villains of the piece. There’s not much reason for their contrariness and their humaneness is totally wiped clean. ... full review

So-So, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...Go watch CHALK N DUSTER. Like I said, inspite of its obvious flaws, it's still worth a watch. The quiz round towards the end is quite entertaining with his suspense. The scenes where Vidya teaches with care and concern in school and her neighbourhood are enlightening. Juhi Chawla as her solid friend is endearing. And although the scenes where the ex-students and students in general come to the help of Vidya when she is in hospital appear over-the-top, it still manages to strike a chord in you. ... full review

So-So, by Shubha Shetty-Saha, MiD DAY : ...However, one must make a mention of a few and far in between credible scenes, including the ones between Shabana Azmi and Girish Karnad. These two great actors show us how their talent can rise above the silliest of films. ... full review

So-So, by Sonia Chopra, Sify Movies : ...Director Jayant Gilatar makes a pertinent film with some crackerjack performances by the lead cast. The story and its message is a winner, but the film is technically inept, complete with the limitations of dubbed sound and abrupt cuts. ... full review

So-So, by Meena Iyer, Times of India : ...Shabana and Juhi are irritatingly saccharine initially; but get firmly in the saddle soon. They're from the dependable lot of actresses after all. ... full review

Thumbs down, by Anna MM Vetticad, annavetticadgoes2themovies : ...It is a mark of Bollywood’s extreme gender bias that the likes of Shabana and Juhi must, more often than not, compromise on quality if they wish to play heroines. These remarkable women deserve better than this clumsy, even if well-meaning, film. So does the teaching profession. ... full review

Thumbs down, by RAJEEV MASAND, IBN Live : ...By this point Chalk & Duster, its noble intentions notwithstanding, has turned into a real slog. I was ready to sprint for the exit just so I didn’t have to endure another minute of this sloppy, misguided movie. Shabana Azmi and Juhi Chawla’s charming presence and sincere performances aside, this could well turn out to be one of the year’s most forgettable films. ... full review

Thumbs down, by Surabhi Redkar, koimoi : ...Watch or Not?: Unfortunately, the film loses its focus from the main plot which is the plight of underpaid teachers with no job security and hence it offers nothing to make up for a theater watch. ... full review

Thumbs down, by Saibal Chatterjee, NDTV : ...Chalk N Duster is the unkindest cut. If you have any respect for your teachers - past present or future - give this film a miss. ... full review

Thumbs down, by Sukanya Verma, Rediff : ...Still, if any of this helps the cause of teachers, good for Team Chalk N Duster. Where movie making is concerned, Gilatar needs to start on a clean slate. ... full review

30 tweeters ( ? ) - 23 yays 4 so-so 3 nays

SnsBaghel : FILM REVIEW: दिल को छू लेगी Chalk N Duster https://t.co/H8w220FrOr

smitenb4 : "Chalk and duster"a must watch movie an eye opener to the education system n institute of today a movie for parents too

shahab39 : Watched Chalk N Duster very imperesive film talking about the prrseny situation of teachetd in india

sanjeevkumarbm : Chalk n Duster was great and fun... Simple and straight movie with no masala... Very happy that people are making... https://t.co/7lKlBAaXvR

Ritchats : Chalk n Duster , simple yet very meaningful movie , must watch , real tribute to noble profession :TEACHING

ramgandhi52 : Chalk n Duster -great n absorbing film /Shabana Azmi/-as always a class act.

RaakeshSaini : 'Chalk N Duster'U DramaDirector: Jayant GilatarSolid: Juhi Chawla, Shabana Azmi, Divya Dutta, Girish Karnad,... https://t.co/2jLYnSCQKX

Prateesh_Shah : #Chalk and Duster best movie 5 star,,eye opener movie# #respect teachers

mynameisdaraz : I reviewed Chalk N Duster 4/5. Earn Rs.50 per review #WriteShareWin https://t.co/oVJKrmypfO via @MouthShut

mybollyreview : it is a must watch for every person who really respect their teachers… #ChalkNDuster https://t.co/Eckky5XZK9 @iam_juhi @AzmiShabana

khalidrafiq140 : ‘Chalk n Duster’ Movie Review: A Must-watch, Inspirational Film https://t.co/sHCGNcPZuW

iammzkhan : Chalk n duster an Amazing movie hats of to all starring individuals...... @iam_juhi

dolbhi : Chalk and Duster a tribute to the most exploited and neglected profession.High time they get the respect and care they really deserve...

dkhajuriewala : Chalk and duster superb movie...anpi nhi dekhi to jarur dekhne jaye...

deejay0371 : 'Chalk N Duster' a brilliant effort: HT https://t.co/kUILEZfjbb -via @inshorts

CNDtheMovie : #ChalkNDuster Full of entertainment with strong message #InCinemasNearYou https://t.co/miKkp3Yn6H @iam_juhi @AzmiShabana @divyadutta25

CND_ID : Dont miss it gaes!! ♥♥♥ https://t.co/0R7kdTEsIh

btowndhamaka : 'Chalk N Duster' tweet review: A bit melodramatic, but definitely makes the right impact https://t.co/c3EQ5H4U8T #BTownUpdates

beeargee : Chalk N Duster is a fresh subject and a refreshing experience. Shabana Azmi, as always , is a treat to watch! Not to be missed.

BalaShroff : "Chalk and Duster" is an excellent film. If you are fond of good cinema then don't miss this film

bafuwild : Rooting for success of Chalk n Duster!!!

abidrasool_khan : 'Chalk N Duster' a brilliant effort: HT https://t.co/UynhA9u2Lj -via @inshorts

AbhiramTinku : Chalk N duster, nice movie, dedicated to teachers. It is also about how management works in background.

Soumyadipta : If you are a Juhi Chawla or Shabana Azmi fan, then Chalk N Duster is for you. If aren't, then we don't recommend it. https://t.co/JD7QqddcBk

mbhardwaj19 : Movie: Chalk N Duster, My Rating 3/5. Better movie. https://t.co/B8lMgbKQkc

Bollywood_Talk1 : 'Chalk n Duster' Movie Review: Mawkishly executed yet inspirational... https://t.co/cJivnjLuqr #bollywood

AspisDrift : Review: Chalk N Duster has good intent but clumsy execution: Director Jayant Gilatar's sloppy 'tribute' never ... https://t.co/im1SqGBPXv

vnrao54 : Movie: Chalk N Duster, My Rating 0/5. I fully agree with the reviewer https://t.co/fCReE9ogZE

palashbiswaskl : Chalk N’ Duster review: Nothing rescues this Juhi Chawla, Shabana Azmi film https://t.co/VFyoJJO8pn

DovTrams1 : CND the biggest waste of oxygen ever. Since the 50's and still no one listens to you.The money is not there. https://t.co/fVU98WhJQ2

1 readers - 1 yays 0 so-so 0 nays

Want to Watch, by parwati singari

Yay! Thumbs Up, by kunga chuni : you wont regret watching this.

This page has additional observations, other than the ones noted in the main review .

Parental Guidance:

• Violence : None
• Language : Clean
• Nudity & Sexual content : None
• Concept : The apathy towards teachers
• General Look and Feel : The kind typical of a film made on low budgets.

Detailed Ratings (out of 5):

Chalk n duster - cast, crew, links.

Chalk N Duster - Trailer

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Comments (2)

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Liked your review particularly the parental guidance. I am a non-movie goer but your review has me curious, of course i am a juhi- Divya fan and am willing to put up with Azmi

the movie was absolutely brilliant. I like it so much.

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Chalk N Duster Review

Star Cast: Juhi Chawla, Shabana Azmi, Zarina Wahab, Divya Dutta, Jackie Shroff, Sameer Soni, Arya Babbar, Richa Chadda

Director: Jayant Gilatar

What’s Good: Chalk N Duster is a film that has its heart in the right place but lacks the necessary treatment. Power-packed performances of Shabana Azmi and Juhi Chawla try to keep this film afloat.

What’s Bad: Shaky camera-work, dramatic twists and soap operaish dialogues kill the purpose of this film. A pathetic climax leaves a bitter taste in your mouth for the overall film.

Loo Break: Second half would be the time!

Watch or Not?: Unfortunately, the film loses its focus from the main plot which is the plight of underpaid teachers with no job security and hence it offers nothing to make up for a theater watch.

Kantaben High School is a privately owned school which is being led by a patient principal Indu Shastri (Zarina Wahab) who cares for her teachers and their work woes. Aarya Babbar who plays a trustee of the school is slightly vampish and takes education as business. In the lieu of making his school one of the top institutes in the city, he appoints Kamini Gupta (Divya Dutta) as the principal, thus firing the respected former head Mrs. Shastri. Gupta is termed as hitler by the teachers in the staff room, thanks to her aggressive attitude. Jyoti Thakur (Juhi Chawla) and Vidya Sawant (Shabana Azmi) are two teachers in the same school who are extremely happy with their jobs until their new principal starts harassing them. Calling a senior Maths teacher Vidya’s teaching standards outdated, Gupta terminates her. This shock leads to Vidya having a heart attack.

Disgusted with Gupta’s behavior and its consequences, Jyoti stands up for her friend Vidya and even approaches the media for help.

Will Vidya and Jyoti manage to wash off their image of incompetence and bring a change in the education system is what the story further unfolds into.

Chalk N Duster Review: Script Analysis

Education system in India is quite messed up and we have seen ample of cases related to it. The film’s basic plot revolves around how teaching in spite of being one of the most respected professions has no value when it comes to monetary benefits. There is no job security for a teacher but the pressure is high enough as they have to shape the lives of tomorrow’s impressionable minds.

While on the factual side, the story of Chalk N Duster is definitely real enough, it is the dramatic treatment that hampers its message. Dialogues like ‘Mujhe question marks pasand nahi. I like full stops’ by a principal are so not ideal.

The first half still holds ground quite firmly as it builds the story towards a major twist but the second half completely shatters the film. It starts getting worse when Richa Chadda’s character enters as a News reporter. The scene is written so poorly that according to the writers, TV reporters randomly start shooting their story in hospitals without even consulting the patient and their family. A complete stereotypical take!

Coming to the climax, it was like watching a YRF film. Nothing happens in the story unless there is a competition. Two teachers who are terminated from their school turn up on a quiz show to prove their capabilities. It is a Kaun Banega Crorepati like show with Rishi Kapoor as the host. (No I’m not kidding!)

So, Chalk N Duster soon starts feeling like you were told it was a Maths class but you’re being taught History.

Chalk N Duster Review: Star Performance

Shabana Azmi does a brilliant job as a teacher who loves her job. Azmi shines in the classroom scenes where she looks extremely natural.

Juhi Chawla does a fine job too. Her camaraderie with Shabana Azmi is a delight.

Divya Dutta completely bowls you over with her performance. Her negative character is strong and she portrays a great body language for it. As the snooty principal she is bang on.

Girish Karnad is wasted in an underdeveloped role. His character of Vidya’s husband who is handicapped has little to do in the film.

Samir Soni plays Jyoti’s husband and yet again the character is extremely sketchy.

Arya Babbar plays the antagonist and well he is quite hammy in his scenes.

Jackie Shroff too has a cameo in the film and frankly it’s not even worth a mention.

Chalk N Duster Review: Music, Direction

Director Jayant Gilatar fails miserably when it comes to execution of the already weak script. The camera work is extremely shoddy and includes even grainy frames. There are random close-ups of the characters which actually seem quite disturbing to the eyes. There are even certain scenes where the dubbing is not proper. The choice of music too is quite poor and while there are not many songs the makers just ignore the need for a good background score too.

Chalk N Duster Review: The Last Word

Chalk N Duster is a dramedy that is high and on drama and some unintentional comedy. I am going with a 2/5 for the film.

Chalk N Duster Trailer

Chalk N Duster releases on 15th January, 2016.

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Why You Only Need 35 Items in Your Closet: Everything to Know About Creating a Capsule Wardrobe

PureWow Editors select every item that appears on this page,, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story You can learn more about that process here. Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Read the original article on Purewow .

Raise your hand if you’ve ever stood in front of your closet trying to find something to wear only to come up empty handed. I’ve certainly experienced my fair share of dresser’s block (like writer’s block, but for dressing yourself). But what if I told you that there’s a solution that can end wardrobe frustration once and for all? Allow me to introduce you to the art of the capsule wardrobe , the minimalist fashion approach that will make your life  so  much easier. Curious? Scroll down to see some of my tips on how to get started, plus what a capsule wardrobe looks like IRL, so you can start simplifying your closet and never have to say “I have nothing to wear” ever again.

What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe consists of a set number of pieces that can easily be mixed and matched with one another, so theoretically, you could reach into your closet blindfolded, pick different items out and they’re guaranteed to match regardless of what you’ve selected. Beyond this, having a capsule wardrobe provides some structure to your shopping habits because it deters you from picking up impulse buys that won't fit into your aesthetic (and will end up unworn in the back of your closet). The result? You save time getting ready every day, while also saving money.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying?  Sign up for our shopping newsletter  to uncover our favorite finds.

@lexmcfarlane

1. A Plain White T-Shirt

Jeremy Moeller/getty images

I feel confident saying that no wardrobe—capsule or not—is complete without at least one good white T-shirt. The humble white tee is a sartorial workhorse, pairing as well with trousers and a duster coat as it does with jeans, a miniskirt or pretty much anything in between. If you buy just one white tee, look for a silhouette that’s long enough to be tucked into bottoms and slightly loose for a cool, effortless vibe.

Shop Similar Styles

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Leset The Margo T-Shirt

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Kule The Modern T-Shirt

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2. A White Button-Down

The beauty of a crisp white button-down is that it can read casual or professional depending on how you style it. Tuck yours into a midi skirt, as seen above, to exude ‘woman in charge,’ or layer it over a tank top and denim shorts to elevate an otherwise casual ensemble into chic territory. (Depending on the material you go for, you can even use it as a swimsuit cover-up.)

H&M Linen-Blend Shirt

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J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt

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Maeve The Bennett Button-Down Shirt

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3. A Silk Camisole

Edward Berthelot/getty images

An airy silk cami is actually an all-seasons piece, if you think about it. In the summer, it keeps you cool on those days when you want to wear as little material as possible, and in colder weather it’s an excellent layering piece. It’s super thin, so it can be worn under tons of different tops without feeling bulky, and it looks sexy peeking out beneath a blazer or cardi.

Zara Satin Effect Lace Camisole

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Banana Republic Charlotte Silk Camisole

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Journelle Celine Silk Cami

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4. A Bodysuit

Speaking of layering pieces, a slim-fit bodysuit is perfect for when you want a streamlined, tucked-in look but don’t feel like fussing with keeping a T-shirt in place all day long. The color, sleeve length and neckline are up to you, I would just recommend going with a tighter fit, which will be supremely figure-flattering when worn with high-waist bottoms of any kind.

Gap Compact Jersey T-Shirt Bodysuit

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Commando Butter Turtleneck Bodysuit

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H&M Ribbed Thong Bodysuit

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5. A Turtleneck

Timeless and elegant, a turtleneck sweater is a surefire way to look poised and in charge. While you obviously won’t want to wear a warmer piece like the one above in spring and summer, I’d urge you to consider seeking out sleeveless turtlenecks in thinner materials to don as temperatures rise. The high neck is so flattering on a wide range of body types—yes, even if you have big boobs .

Ann Taylor Mixed Cable Turtleneck Sweater

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Mango Rib Turtleneck Sweater

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Everlane The Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck

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6. A Crewneck Sweater

Tossed over your shoulders or worn with a white tee peeking out at the collar, a crewneck sweater is a piece you’ll get tons of use out of. I prefer a boxier, boyfriend fit, but you could also opt for a slimmer cut that’s more akin to a thick long-sleeve top.

Vince Double Layer Wool, Silk & Alpaca Sweater

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Zara Wool and Alpaca Blend Sweater

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The Elder Statesman Gender Inclusive Roll Neck Cotton Sweater

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7. A Striped Sweater

A striped sweater can read Parisian or nautical, depending on how you wear it. If the rest of your wardrobe is comprised of neutral basics, a striped sweater is an easy way to add a touch of fun without straying too far outside your comfort zone. It also looks good wrapped around your shoulders.

Gap 24/7 Split-Hem Shrunken Sweater

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J.Crew Rollneck Sweater

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Free People Coastal Stripe Pullover

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8. Straight-Leg Blue Jeans

No offense to ‘70s flares, skinnies or wide-leg skater jeans, but a straight-leg denim silhouette can’t be topped, in my book. You can choose between different rises, washes and lengths, depending on your style, but straight-leg jeans are quintessential—and extremely versatile.

Levi's Wedge Straight-Fit Jeans

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Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean

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Pilcro The Annie High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

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9. High-Waist Trousers

Streetstyleshooters/getty images

Even if you don’t work in a business casual office, high-waist trousers are supremely elegant and stylish. In terms of hue, a pair in classic black, navy, tan or brown will likely provide the most bang for your buck. Also, consider the fit: Unless your trousers fit like they were made for you right off the rack (lucky you), I highly recommend tailoring them, which can make an astronomical difference in how your pants look.

Aritzia The Effortless Pant Flex

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Eileen Fisher Organic Linen Trouser Pant

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J.Crew Essential Pant in City Crepe

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10. Denim Shorts

There are a few keys to making sure your denim shorts read grown-up versus spring break: First, opt for a longer and looser silhouette. Second, if you’re buying one pair of denim shorts, avoid excessive distressing, which can be harder to style.

Gap Mid Rise '90s Loose Denim Shorts

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Levi’s 501® '90S Lightweight Shorts

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Citizens of Humanity Marlow Long Vintage Short

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11. Non-Denim Shorts

As noted above, denim shorts can look polished, but that doesn’t mean they should be the only shorts in your arsenal. Trouser shorts, paper bag-waist shorts and the like in faux-leather, chino or linen are a great option for when you want to show off your legs but don’t feel like being precious in a skirt.

H&M Pull-On Linen Shorts

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Theory Double Pleated Shorts

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By Anthropologie Linen Double Waistband Shorts

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12. White Jeans

Whether or not you abide by the ‘no white jeans after Labor Day’ rule (I most certainly do not), a gleaming white denim pant will be one of your closet best friends. Just don’t forget the Tide to Go pen.

Agolde 90's Pinch Waist

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Good American Good Waist Cropped Palazzo Jeans

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Madewell The '90s Straight Crop Jean

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13. Black Jeans

A touch easier to dress up than blue or white jeans, black jeans are supremely versatile. Wear them with a tucked-in button-down and boots for a casual day at the office or keep things cool for Sunday brunch with a white tee and crewneck sweater tossed over your shoulders—the possibilities are almost endless.

Reformation Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans

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Everlane The Original Cheeky® Jean

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Citizens of Humanity Annina Jean

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14. A Black Mini Skirt

Winter, spring, summer or fall, you can—and should—wear a simple black miniskirt. When temps drop, toss it on over thick tights and knee-high boots, and as things warm up, go for bare legs and flat sandals or sneakers. I think an A-line silhouette like the one above is super flattering on a wide variety of body types.

Maeve The Colette Skirt

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Agolde Becker Skirt

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Steve Madden Cameron Mini Skirt

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15. A Midi Skirt

Christian Vierig/getty images

Think of this midi skirt as a piece you can toss on when you want to look a bit more polished than if you were wearing jeans, but similarly comfortable. I’m partial to an A-line silhouette for its universally flattering properties, but feel free to try on a variety of different styles to find what you like best. And, unlike when you’re wearing a mini skirt, there’s no need to worry about a big gust of wind in a midi length.

By Anthropologie Linen Curved-Hem Midi Skirt

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Reformation Layla Linen Midi Skirt

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Rails Maya Midi Skirt

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16. Leather (or Faux-Leather) Pants

Worn with a graphic tee, striped sweater or button-down, leather or faux-leather pants exude cool. The type of cool depends on your top (a graphic tee reads ‘rockstar girlfriend’ while a button-down reads ‘chic art gallerist’), but nonetheless: It’s hard not to feel hot in leather pants, and for that I’m grateful.

Wilfred The Melina Pant

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Levi's Faux Leather Baggy Dad Pants

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BLANKNYC Faux Leather Straight Leg Pant

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17. Elevated Leggings

While some fashion traditionalists might prefer to go out naked than in leggings or sweats, many others prove that just because it can be worn to the gym doesn’t mean it can’t also be appropriate for every day. But—and it’s a big but—it’s crucial to think about  how  you’re wearing athleisure. Leggings can look a little too HIIT class-ready with a sweatshirt and sneakers, but the same comfy pants take on an elevated vibe when worn with a ladylike jacket, luxe bag and knee-high boots.

Athleta Transcend High Rise 7/8 TIght

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Alo Yoga 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging

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Commando Butter Luxe Legging

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18. A Trench Coat

A classic trench is a staple of French fashion for good reason: You look like the epitome of style when wearing one. Sure, you could wear yours over an all-white outfit like above, but I’ve seen fashionable New York women tossing theirs over athleisure as they head to and from the gym and they look absolutely fabulous.

Ann Taylor Twill Raglan Trench Coat

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COS Hooded Trench Coat

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Mango Women's Belted Classic Trench Coat

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19. A Blazer

Don’t worry if you don’t work in an office that necessitates a blazer and trousers; this versatile topper suits—pun intended—nearly every style. Keep in mind that a slimmer fit looks more built for a business causal setting, while a boxy, borrowed-from-the-boys silhouette lends a cool-girl air to everything from light-wash jeans to the aforementioned black miniskirt.

Quince 100% European Linen Structured Blazer

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Lioness La Quinta Blazer

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Jenni Kayne Jones Blazer

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20. A Denim Jacket

For all its beautiful flowers and diminishing seasonal affective depression, spring can be tricky to dress for. It’s chilly in the morning, hot in the afternoon and crisp again at night. A classic denim jacket is one of my favorite ways to face those weather fluctuations head on.

Madewell The Jean Jacket in Medford Wash

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Levi's Original Trucker Jacket

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Pilcro Boyfriend Spliced Denim Jacket

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21. A Leather Jacket

The style you choose doesn’t matter too much—if you’re into biker silhouettes like the one above, great; if you prefer a Matrix -esque blazer, go for it—but a leather jacket is an integral part of a capsule wardrobe that oozes cool. When it comes to styling, I’d say wear it with pretty much anything except leather pants, which can take the whole thing a little too far into Village People territory.

PAIGE Charli Faux Leather Blazer

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Norma Kamali Oversized Moto Jacket

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Waif Faux Leather Blazer

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22. A Statement Coat

As much as I love trench coats and denim jackets, a statement coat—be it in leopard print, hunter green fur or metallic—is so much fun, and surprisingly versatile. If you’ll notice, many of the pieces on this list are neutral in color and timeless in silhouette. That serves as the perfect base for a head-turning jacket or coat.

Show Me Your Mumu Amsterdam Jacket

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Hutch Juni Belted Coat

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House of Sunny The Floor Length 80s Blazer

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23. A Slip Dress

Chic and just sexy enough to make an impact without going overboard, a slip dress can work for loads of occasions and with tons of different accessories. One thing I’d consider when styling a slip dress is that if yours has an above-the-knee hem, stick to flat shoes or low block heels; a silky mini with sky-high stilettos can look a touch bedroom for every day.

By Anthropologie Asymmetrical Lace Slip Dress

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Vince Fray Edge Cami Bias Dress

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Shona Joy La Lune Bias Cowl Midi Dress

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24. A Little Black Dress

Daniel Zuchnik/getty images

If you don’t already have a go-to little black dress, this is your sign to pick one up. An LBD is a timeless wardrobe staple that you’re meant to wear into the ground. Take your pick of style and silhouette; my only advice would be to avoid anything that makes too much of a statement so you can wear it time and time again without anyone noticing.c

J.Crew Seamed Flare Midi Dress in Linen Blend

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Banana Republic Strapless Linen Mini Dress

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Endless Rose Cutout Bow Mini Dress

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25. A Printed Maxi Dress

Many of the pieces on this list are neutral, solid colors. That’s because, in general, they’re the easiest to pair with one another for no-brainer outfit combinations. An exception is a printed maxi dress, which is way more versatile than you might think: You can wear it across multiple seasons. With a jacket and knee-high boots when it’s cold, sans coat and with flat sandals when it’s warm.

Pilcro Sleeveless Plaid Tent Maxi Dress

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ASOS DESIGN Shirred Halter Neck Maxi Dress

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Zara Floral Print Dress

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26. White Sneakers

I love a good heel or ankle boot as much as the next person, but in my opinion, a good white sneaker is one of the most important shoes to have in your capsule wardrobe. Whether you opt for a sleek Adidas Samba or a chunkier dad sneaker, this is a shoe that’s meant to be worn with pretty much everything on this list.

Universal Thread Mercedes Sneakers with Memory Foam Insole

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Nike Tech Hera Sneaker

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Adidas Samba OG

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27. Ankle Boots

In white, black or brown with whatever heel height suits your style (and comfort level), ankle boots are a must-have in any capsule wardrobe. While I love a fun print or color or unexpected fabric, choose your go-to ankle boots based on how many pieces in your wardrobe you can pair them with. You’ll want to make sure to choose boots that can look as great with a midi dress as they can with jeans, a miniskirt and more.

Silent D Carina Heeled Ankle Boots

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Journee Collection Haylinn Boot

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Marc Fisher Ltd. Jarli Bootie

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28. Flat Sandals

A good sandal feels comfortable to walk in (even when it’s 100 degrees out) and looks stylish with all of your dresses, skirts and shorts come spring and summer. If you’re just looking to add one pair to your rotation, you can never go wrong with a one- or two-strap silhouette with some gold or silver hardware (think: Birkenstock Arizonas).

Birkenstock Arizona Sandal

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ALLSAINTS Sian Sandal

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Maeve The Coralie Mule Slide Sandals

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29. Loafers

If you ask me, a loafer adds a touch of cool to just about any outfit, from slightly cropped jeans to mini slip dresses to trousers. If you want to be ultra on-trend, be sure to wear yours with Gen Z-approved crew socks .

G.H. Bass Liana Bit Super Lug Weejuns Loafers

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Prada Chocolate Brushed Leather Loafers

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Dr. Martens Adrian Tassel Loafers

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30. Walkable Heels

“Walkable” is extremely subjective, I know, but the point is this: Don’t buy heels that are going to kill your feet after ten minutes of walking. It can be tempting to reach for the sky-high pairs you know will make your legs and outfit look supermodel-esque, but when it comes to shoes, practicality is key. Make sure you can walk around (and even just stand) for a significant amount of time. Your blister-free feet will thank you.

Tory Burch Georgia Pump

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Sam Edelman Terra Gem Slingback Kitten Heel

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Marc Fisher Luminos Pump

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Accessories

31. a simple belt.

No matter if you opt for black leather and a silver buckle, brown leather and a gold buckle or any other combination, a belt is often the icing atop an ensemble. Especially if you’re wearing a fully monochromatic outfit, a gold or silver belt buckle—no matter how subtle—can add a hint of visual interest and break up the single color.

Vince Camuto Double Ring Buckle Women's Belt

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Shashi Square Buckle Belt

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By Anthropologie Structural Buckle Belt

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32. A Roomy Tote or Top Handle Bag

Ideal for toting around your laptop, makeup bag, chargers, snacks, you name it, a cavernous tote bag is a must. To ensure it fits within the rest of your capsule wardrobe, opt for a bag in a neutral color and luxe (or luxe-looking) fabric like leather, faux-leather or suede.

Banana Republic Silva Top Handle Bag

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Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote

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Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

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33. Everyday Sunglasses

Aviators and cat eyes, oh my! There are *so many* sunglass styles to choose from, but when it comes to buying a pair for your capsule wardrobe, think about what color and style will match with the vast majority of your closet. While a square frame in a cool print may be fun now and then, you might find that your existing pieces are better suited to a classic rectangle shape in black or tortoiseshell.

Otra Daisy Sunglasses

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Sito Shades Sweet Harmony Sunglasses

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Tory Burch Miller Pushed Square Sunglasses

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34. A Shoulder Bag

For those days when you don’t need all of the laptops and chargers and snacks that can fit in your roomy tote, reach for a smaller handbag that can still fit the essentials. I personally like shoulder bags that have the option to attach a crossbody strap; it feels like I’m getting more bang for my buck if I can wear a bag in multiple ways.

8 Other Reasons Many Moons Bag

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By Anthropologie The Noemi Asymmetrical Buckle Shoulder Bag

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Cuyana Paloma Shoulder Bag

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35. A Blanket Scarf

A big scarf comes in handy in so many situations beyond the obvious (staying warm). On a flight? Toss it into your carry-on to drape over yourself when you’re freezing mid-air. Sudden rainstorm? Wrap it over your head to protect your blowout. The color you choose is going to depend on what fits within your wardrobe, but I’m a fan of choosing a scarf in a bright color that’ll make a statement against my mostly neutral fits.

Mango Flowy Scarf

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H&M Linen-Blend Shawl

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By Anthropologie Recycled Two-Tone Scarf

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Review: Guadagnino’s “Challengers:” Serving up steamy drama

Zendaya’s newest film “Challengers” has finally been released after a delay from September 15, 2023, to April 26, 2024. The question is whether this film is a trophy-winning champion or a love-love game.  

The plot follows tennis prodigy turned coach Tashi Duncan (Zendaya), after she suffers a career-ending injury. She helps her husband, tennis pro Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), overcome his losing streak by setting up a challengers match between him and his estranged best friend, who was also Tashi’s former boyfriend, Patrick Zweig (Josh O’Connor). Soon, the film pushes the boundaries on how much the audience can support Zendaya’s rights… and wrongs, but who can blame a woman who wants to see some good tennis?

The director of this film, Luca Guadagnino, is an Academy Award-nominated director for his critically acclaimed film, “Call Me by Your Name” and the twisted romantic horror of “Bones and All.” “Challengers” is both his most accessible and best film, as I was not impressed by his previous work — but once the first trailer was released, I was on the net for it. It has become a hot topic and caused a stir with its steamy scenes and love triangle angle. 

After falling from the Statue of Liberty and crossing the deserts of Arrakis, it is amazing to see Zendaya in a role that truly emphasizes her beauty in a calculated way, as Tashi Duncan is headstrong and ruthless in her pursuits. The film is non-linear, bouncing you around different time frames with flashbacks of competing rallies in a game of tennis, to fast-forwarding in the present. The film title has a double meaning, as the match they are playing is called a “challengers” match, but all the characters face challenges in their lives. 

Tashi Duncan is a complicated woman who one can see is controlling the strings of Art, looking down upon him as she is the mastermind behind the match to help her husband’s weak-willed reputation. She is willing to do anything to be on top, and to regain the glory she had back on the court. She is sexy, yet cold and calculated in her pursuit to live vicariously through Art.

Art is loyal, but demure and mild-mannered. While he can have a bit of sass, he knows his place alongside Tashi and wants to look good in her eyes, regardless of what he sacrifices himself. Mike Faist’s performance brings warmth and charm as he is lovestruck and naive, yet has faith in Patrick and Tashi regardless of how they treat him.    

Patrick is sure of himself and can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Tashi. He is the one who sees her as the person she is, not the idol that she makes herself out to be. O’Connor shines here with rock star smarminess as his mischievous smile lights up the screen and his playful banter bounces along with Zendaya’s dry wit. Patrick is a character who you will be reluctantly rooting for as he tries to reach for the top, despite his misguided efforts. 

All three actors had steamy chemistry that heated up the screen as they conveyed complexities in their characters that a lesser writer can make tropey. The dynamic is unconventional but thrilling and juicy as all three people are, at times, cold and disjointed, but complex individuals who, when united, are the strongest. 

Screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes is a pro at writing punchy dialogue, showing how the back-and-forth dynamic between the three of them is just like a game of tennis with volleys, serves and rallies. Zendaya, who also executive produced the film, picked the perfect vehicle to star and cultivate in her first lead feature film role. At times, she echoes Halle Berry and Sharon Stone, as the film feels like a modern version of 90’s erotic thrillers combined with a sports drama, due to the captivating tension.

Visually, the film is stunning; it is the closest you can get to a live-action sports anime with shots following the ball, the player and more. It uses an unusual yet exhilarating style that shows Kuritzkes’ passion for these types of movies, as he called the film a “tennis anime.”  Tight shots and close-ups put you into the games. This movie would be studied by film courses for its immersive nature — no other film has thrown so many balls at my face. This movie is best when seen on the biggest screen possible, specifically IMAX. 

The scores also elevated the movie. Created by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, they are very electronic and dancy, but at times extremely tense and add to the feelings in the film. 

“Challengers” is the best film of the year so far. In an era of debating the relevance and staying power of movie stars rather than characters, this film proves that the leads shown deserve to be the next generation of stars. The writer-director duo of Kuritzkes and Guadagnino have confirmed to be working on another film together called “Queer.” 

5 tennis balls out of 5. 

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Your go-to source for Ann Arbor Family Fun

Summer Spectacular: Family Guide to Top of the Park

Get details on all of the great activities happening. as part of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival’s Top of the Park in our Family Guide. Ann Arbor Top of the Park 2023 includes movies, music, kids zone tents, food, Annex activities, retreat fitness classes, and more.

Top of the Park 2023 starts on June 14, 2024. Movies were announced April 12 with KidZone Tents, Annex, and Retreats announced on April 25.

What is Top of the Park?

Top of the Park is the free outdoor component of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Top of the Park includes numerous live concerts each evening and movies on Sundays-Thursdays (closed Monday). Each night there is a KidZone tent with activities for kids. There are also food tents for dinner or snacks.

This Top of the Park Kids Guide lists all of the great family friendly activities happening at Top of the Park. Top of the Park is scheduled to start on Friday, June 14, 2024. It is held every night except for Mondays through June 30, 2024

While admission is free, they do ask for a $5/person or $10/family donation each night to help support the event. You can also support the event by shopping the food and merchandise stands.

Events from our Sponsors

Apple Playschools’ Mud Day Mayhem!

Saturday, June 22

Big Play Day

Mark you calendars for June 23!

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Where is Top of the Park?

Top of the Park is held on Ingalls Mall on the University of Michigan campus. The large stage and movies are shown in front of the Rackham Graduate School Building on Washington Street. Washington Street is closed between Fletcher and Thayer for the duration of the festival.

There are folding chairs available in front of the Rackham stage/screen on Washington St. There is also a smaller Grove Stage nestled in the trees on the west side of the Ingalls Mall.

Chairs and tables are also available in the Beer garden. Sections of the beer garden are a great location for seeing either the Rackham stage and the O&W Grove stage.

For the 2022 season, they introduced a large tent with additional seating in the center area of Ingalls Mall. This tent also had several cornhole boards setup. I love the addition of games and shade.

However, most guests bring blankets or their own chairs and sit in the grass on Ingalls Mall.

Top of the Park KidZone Tent

Each night of Top of the Park, a local organization hosts activities in the KidZone Tent. The KidZone tent is typically open from 5-8p. The KidZone tent is located in the center of Ingalls Mall. Last year, it was on the north side of the fountain.

The KidZone Tent faced away from the main stage. This made it a bit quieter area for kids who need a break from the stimulation of the music.

One of my daughter’s favorite KidZone hosts has been the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra. Whether it was trying out the strings at age 3. or the brass instruments at 12.

The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s Instrument Petting Zoo is back for 2024 – on June 21.

KidZone Tent Schedule

Top of the park spectacles, david zinn & sidewalk chalk at top of the park.

David Zinn, Ann Arbor’s premier chalk artist, will be decorating the sidewalks at Top of the Park several nights.

Sunday, June 16 is Sidewalk Chalk Day. Come join in chalking the sidewalks of Top of the Park.

Or, visit on select nights to see David Zinn’s creations take shape. He’ll be out working on Friday, June 21, Sunday, June 23, Tuesday, June 25, Friday, June 28, & Sunday, June 30.

I love visiting for Top of the Park Spectacles. This year Cirque Kikasse brings their acrobatics to opening weekend!

Cirque Kikasse’s Santé

Cirque Kikasse will bering thrills & chills to opening weekend with shows each night. This dynamic circus features extreme acrobatics and breathtakng ballances on an extraordinary food truck – that serves up treats after each show.

Top of the Park Retreat

Top of the Park kicks off each night with a wellness/fitness activity like yoga, martial arts, and more. While Retreat is not a kid-centric program, they are welcome to join in. Retreat activities happen on the Power Center Lawn at 5:30p.

Top of the Park Ann Arbor Schedule of Performances

The big draw of Top of the Park is the nightly musical performances. There are two stages setup at Top of the Park. The larger stage is in front of Rackham and is the main stage for Top of the Park. The Acoustic Stage is setup in the Grove near the Bell Tower.

Music typically starts at 5p on the Grove Stage and at 7p on the Rackham Stage. 2024 Musical acts have not yet been announced.

Top of the Park Ann Arbor – 2024 Movie Schedule

Top of the Park Movies by Moonlight take place on Tuesday-Thursday nights during Top of the Park. There is also a movie on the closing Sunday (June 30).

Movies by Moonlight start earlier this year! They start at 9:30p except the closing movie (Barbie) which still starts at 10p. However, unlike past years there is only one Sunday night movie. Sundays used to feature family movies. The movies are a lot of fun and there are some great movie options this year. Check out the 2024 Movie Lineup and get all your questions about Top of the Park Movies answered.

Culinary Row – Top of the Park Food Vendors

Culinary Row is part of many of our visits to Top the Park. It has food booths and food trucks offering everything from drinks to dinner to dessert mostly from local vendors. The Culinary Row vendors help to support Top of the Park. Attendees are encouraged to support the vendors instead of bringing their own food.

As of April 25, they still list the 2023 food vendors. Last year, my husband walked by the day before they opened to get the list of food vendors.

The 2023 Food vendors were:

• Slow’s Barbecue Truck
• Joe’s Pizza
• Desi Ruchulu
• Chela’s
• Michigan Creamery
• Oasis Mediterranean Grill
• Sweetwaters Cafe
• Sugar Shack

* Desi Ruchulu is the new name of Hut-Kay Fusion, a longtime Top of the Park Culinary Row vendor.

If you want full options for dinner, we highly recommend arriving early. Bao Boys ran out of their popular baos early last year – before 6:30p on some days, By 7p, they only had their 2 vegetarian options available. (My daughter and I both enjoyed the vegetarian Bao Mi).

Alcoholic beverages are served in the beer garden to the left when looking at the stage under the trees. Kids are allowed in the beer garden.

There are picnic tables across from the culinary row vendors and tables and chairs in the beer garden.

Ann Arbor Summer Festival 2023 – Main Stage Performances

Ann Arbor Summer Festival Main Stage Performances are ticketed performances. This year’s Main Stage Shows are mostly at Lydia Mendelssohn Theater.

• June 15 at 3:30p – The Cabinet of Dr Caligari (silent film with live score, part of Cinetopia Film Festival)
• June 16 at 3:30p – The Fabulous Fleischer cartoons (silent film with live score, part of Cinetopia Film Festival)
• June 17 at 7:30p – Gregory Alan Isakov with Special Guest Mon Rovîa (Hill Auditorium)
• June 22 at 4 & 7p – REFLEX – Unraveling 4,000 Years of Juggling
• June 23 at 4 & 7p – REFLEX – Unraveling 4,000 Years of Juggling

What to Bring to Top of the Park

You don’t need to bring anything to Top of the Park. But, you can bring chairs or a blanket. If you have younger kids, a wagon is helpful. It can carry your blanket, water bottles, and kids who don’t want to walk.

If you visit in early evening, you may want sun screen. If you plan to stay later in the evening, you may want a sweatshirt and/or long pants to stay warm.

2022 was the first time we had an issue with mosquitos at Top of the Park. We suggest bringing bug spray just in case this year.

Many of the Top of the Park culinary row vendors have mobile credit card machines so you won’t need cash. However, Cash is helpful for a few things. You can make a donation to Ann Arbor Summer Festival volunteers. Or, you can send the kids with cash to buy their own food/drinks.

Getting to Top of the Park

Biking, walking and the bus are great options for getting to Top of the Park if you live close enough. We usually drive to Top of the Park since we don’t live near downtown.

My husband works at UM and has a blue parking pass. We will often use that to park in the Fletcher Parking Structure. Without the pass, there is often a $5 parking fee. The Thayer lot also has a $5 parking fee for non-pass holders.

Many other UM Blue lots offer free parking after 5 or 6p. We have also parked at the Ann Structure which offers metered visitor parking and is a blue lot. It is a little further, but can be worth saving the $5 in parking. UM Parking maps can be found on their parking and transportation website.

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2 thoughts on “Summer Spectacular: Family Guide to Top of the Park”

How can I find out what is going on this weekend through the rest of the summer? The dates offered above stop on July 2nd. Thank you!

Top of the Park is part of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival and only ran through July 2nd. You can find all upcoming activities on our Events Calendar . We send out a weekend roundup to our newsletter subscribers on Thursdays and publish it to the website 12 hours later. Your best bets for finding information are subscribing to our newsletter or following us on Facebook .

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‘Gazer’ Review: A Mother’s Dyschronometria Hides Her Own Ticking Clocks in a Brilliantly Paranoid Debut

Christian zilko.

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Imagine if “Baby Driver” was a tragic, music-free exploration of mental decay, and you might be able to start picturing the tensest robbery sequence in “ Gazer .” Just like Ansel Elgort’s tinnitus-inflicted getaway driver, Frankie (Ariella Mastroianni) needs to put her headphones in before she tackles a dangerous job. But she’s not blasting Queen or The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion.

Marrying the manic paranoia of “After Hours” with a “Memento”-esque unreliable protagonist and touches of flesh-bending body horror that could be ripped straight from “Videodrome,” “Gazer” is the kind of debut that should restore your lost faith in independent cinema. Self-financed by rookie director Ryan J. Sloan and shot in between shifts at his day job as an electrician, the 16mm thriller is a white-knuckler that feels consistently fresh despite wearing many of its classic Hollywood influences on its sleeve. Sloan invokes ’70s sleaze and the “By god, this goes all the way to the top!” conspiracies of classic noir in equal measure, but his film stays so grounded in its own world that it never devolves into an homage to anything in particular. “Gazer” might be inspired by New Hollywood, but its existence is almost reason to believe that a similar filmmaking renaissance could be on the horizon.

The situation seems bleak, but Frankie finds a lifeline in an unexpected place when a woman calling herself Paige (Renee Gagner) approaches her at a trauma support group. Paige recognizes Frankie’s face because she saw her gazing through a window while her boyfriend assaulted her. The woman explains that she’s struggling to leave an abusive relationship and doesn’t have a friend to turn to. She has an escape plan, but she needs someone her neighbors won’t recognize to sneak into her apartment, grab her car keys, and stash her car in a safe spot. She offers Frankie thousands of dollars for one night’s work — and Frankie isn’t in the position to turn down anyone who offers to pay her.

It seems like the perfect heist on paper, just two strangers using each other’s tragic situations to bring themselves a step closer to freedom. But things get complicated after Frankie does exactly as she’s told. Paige ghosts her without paying her fee, but that becomes the least of her problems once cops show up at her door. Paige never picked up her car, but the authorities did — and as it turns out, there was a dead body in the trunk. With Frankie’s fingerprints all over the steering wheel, she’s now the prime suspect in a murder case she knows nothing about.

Frankie might not have much time left after the credits of “Gazer” roll, but there’s every reason to believe that cinephiles will be enjoying the work of Sloan and Mastroianni for years to come.

“Gazer” premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. It is currently seeking U.S. distribution.

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