By Jose Sanchez

Hell or High Water

The phrase “Come hell or high water” means that no matter what happens, nothing will stop you from achieving a goal. The movie, “Hell or High Water,” is great for those who love action, crime, and learning about the US.

It explores Texas, it’s people, their struggles, and everything they are willing to do to succeed. In a way I think it’s very good for international students. It truly fleshes out its characters while still minting traditional roles that repeat in old western films. It is also never afraid to address issues of racism in a manner of fact way that is also quite humorous. It also very obviously highlights the decline of rural America and its struggle to remain relevant in a changing economy.

If you have ever seen any western movie like “No Country for Old Men” or “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,” you are sure to enjoy this one. From what I’ve seen international students tend to be rather familiar with old western movies.

However, a word of warning: I had trouble understanding the Texan accents and often had to rely on context clues to figure out what one of the protagonists was saying. But even if you don’t understand what is being said at least you will know what a heavy Texan accent is supposed to sound like.

Star Wars

Most international students know that Star Wars is really famous in the US, but they haven’t actually seen any of the movies. And if they have, they have only seen either of the two most recent ones. They know the saying “May the force be with you”,  but they don’t know what it means. Personally, I’m still not sure what it means.

I highly recommend watching some of the other six movies. Even if you don’t like them, you will finally learn what all the fuss is about. There are also quite a few Star Wars cartoons. They may be targeted towards children but often have adult themes and delve deeper into the mythology of Star Wars.

Space battles, planets blowing up, good trumping over evil! Find out what you missed out on when you watched “Rouge One” and “The Force Awakens.”

Featured image by Denise Jans on Unsplash

Jose was born in the city of Panorama, CA., but lived in Mexico City for a number of years before moving to Los Angeles. Jose is majored in Psychology. He enjoys playing real time strategy video games, running, swimming, and was a member of USC’s fencing club. He is also interested in politics and would like to be involved in that arena one way or another as well. When he can, Jose helps his mom and aunt in their elementary school classrooms. He enjoys helping students succeed in their studies.