Snapshot of the week: Total Eclipse Travellers
Launching into the briefing, one must caution that the term “Solarbration” is a blend of solar and celebration, and should never be directly stared at sans proper eye safety measures.
This week, in a complete eclipse of numerous bank accounts, a multitude of North Americans travelled for hours to participate in “solarbration”, congregating along the “path of totality” to witness the moment when the moon obstructs the sun’s light by moving between the sun and the Earth. This event is comparable to having someone tower over you at a concert, only the descent into twilight is slightly shorter.
Despite the fact that eclipse gatherings may seem enjoyable to those who can handle seeming as if they are part of a sect, eclipse flights present an entirely different breed of absurdity. Various flights run by American airlines, Delta and Southwest among them, made an extravaganza of the experience of being 35,000ft aloft during the eclipse, with Southwest offering “cosmic cocktails”, and at least one Delta flight pledging “special manoeuvres” for a rewarding view.
In principle, the aim was to rise above any clouds that could mar the spectacle for ground spectators, while also extending the experience for those observing from 35,000ft beneath. Alas, in a typical “you neglected to think this through, right?” scenario, the sun remained domineeringly stationed above the plane, resulting in much peering through minuscule windows.
By the figures: Olympic Fortitude
$50,000
The monetary reward set aside for winners of the gold medal participating in the 48 athletics events at this summer’s Olympic Games, as a result of World Athletics’ decision to diverge from Olympic custom. They are the first sport to assure such a prize.
$0
The prize money set for silver- and bronze-winning athletes in Paris, though World Athletics president, Sebastian Coe, stated that plans are in motion to initiate monetary incentives for these ranks from Los Angeles 2028.
$12,500
The amount each member of a gold victorious relay team would receive, as they would split the $50,000 prize – slightly raising the stakes not to fumble with the baton.
Under the limelight: Warren East
The public-private partnership firm, Nats, which is responsible for managing the UK’s air traffic control systems, was heavily criticised last August when more than 2000 flights were cancelled due to a technological fault. The incident reportedly cost airlines around €116 million. Willie Walsh, chief of the International Air Transport Association, deemed the incident “shocking”. Ryanair also reproached Nats for their perceived “shameful incapability,” with its CEO Michael O’Leary demanding the resignation or dismissal of Nats’ CEO, Martin Rolfe. Despite this, Rolfe remains in his position. However, Nats has appointed a new chairman, Warren East, former CEO of engine producer Rolls-Royce and chip manufacturer Arm. East is entrusted with the task of modernising UK airspace over the upcoming years. Nats is currently working on updating numerous systems to supposedly enhance flying efficiency.
In film news, Hollywood actress and producer Margot Robbie announced on Wednesday that her company, LuckyChap, is set to produce a film based on the Hasbro board game, Monopoly. Here are some other beloved toys and games that might possibly be turned into successful films:
1. Polly Pocket: Lena Dunham is set to direct a film depicting the bond between a girl and a “pocket-sized” woman, which was a popular toy in the 90s. The film will star Lily Collins.
2. Uno: Mattel’s competitive card game has yet to be adapted into a successful film, though there has been talk of it.
3. Magic 8 Ball: The next Mattel item to be converted into a film is set to be at the heart of a horror comedy by Cocaine Bear writer, Jimmy Warden.
4. Clue: Talk of a film adaptation of Hasbro’s murder mystery board game (known as Cluedo outside of North America) has been circulating recently, even though some wonder if it can ever surpass the popular 1985 comedy of the same name.
Greta Gerwig, the director of “Barbie 2,” has indicated her willingness to produce a sequel, given she can identify a compelling subtext for the film. This sentiment is also shared by Warner Bros’ CEO, Pam Abdy, who has expressed a strong desire to work on another installation. Considering the first Barbie film grossed a hefty $1.5 billion (£1.1 billion) globally, the financial viability of a sequel appears highly favourable.