Saturday
Oct142017

Canadian Reviewer Weekly Roundup 10/08-10/14

Saturday
Oct142017

Amazon Studios cuts ties with Weinstein Company

After reports that detailed sexual harassment and abuse by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein surfaced, Amazon Studios decided it no longer wanted to work with Weinstein’s studio. The studio has even cancelled a two-season mafia crime television drama from Silver Linings Playbook director David O. Russell, which had Weinstein as an executive producer. It was set to star heavy names in the industry like Robert De Niro, Julianne Moore, and Michael Shannon. The stars released a statement claiming they supported Amazon’s decision even as the cancellation comes at a high price—with a budget of US$160 million for both seasons.

One other production Weinstein co-produced will be pushing through but without the Weinstein Company’s support. This is from Mad Men’s creator Matthew Weiner and is called The Romanoffs. Amazon makes this move following the suspension of its studio head, Roy Price, who is also being accused of sexual harassment.

Source: The Verge

Saturday
Oct142017

Review: Anki Overdrive - Fast and Furious Edition

By Gadjo Cardenas Seviilla

If the thrill of racing actual cars on a specialized track with hairpin turns, rising hills and agressive competitors armed with photon cannons appeals to you, then you need to check out Anki's update to their racing game.

Anki has made a name for itself by blending cutting-edge app technology, robotic racing cars and smart tracks that work in concert to provide live action track racing simulator that everyone can enjoy. The Anki Overdrive: Fast and Furious Edition incorporates some of the cars, sound effects and elements of the beloved movie franchise.

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Saturday
Oct142017

Microsoft builds tree houses as meeting places (because why not?)

Tech companies have been known to push the boundaries in many aspects and that includes their workspaces. For Microsoft, this includes having tree house meeting spaces for its employees. The company has three tree houses built by Pete Nelson from the TV Show Treehouse Masters. The rationale behind this, as seen in the video above, is that nature is supposed to improve “creativity, focus, and happiness.”

The meeting places have two enclosed areas with an elevated area called Crow’s Nest that will let employees work outdoors. There is Wi-Fi and power points to charge devices. There won’t be AV systems and climate control here, though, so those that need PowerPoint presentations will need hold meetings in the more traditional spaces in Microsoft’s Redmond, Washington campus. The third tree house is still being built and is said to be a “sheltered lounge space.”