Horror movies have captivated audiences for over a century, evolving alongside advancements in technology, shifts in societal fears, and changes in audience expectations. From the eerie atmospheres of classic horror films to the psychological depth and visceral intensity of modern-day horror, the genre has continually reinvented itself to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

The early days of horror cinema are often regarded as the Golden Age, a time when filmmakers laid the foundations for many of the genre's most enduring tropes. Films like Dracula (1931), Frankenstein (1931), and The Wolf Man (1941) introduced audiences to the terrifying potential of cinema, using shadowy cinematography, gothic settings, and iconic monsters to create lasting images of fear.

In these early films, the horror was often implied rather than explicitly shown. Directors like Tod Browning and James Whale used suggestion and atmosphere to evoke terror, often leaving much to the audience's imagination. The pacing was slower, and the scares were more psychological than visceral. For instance, in Dracula, Bela Lugosi's eerie portrayal of the vampire relied heavily on his gaze and presence rather than graphic depictions of violence. The tension built gradually, creating an unsettling atmosphere that left audiences feeling haunted long after the film ended.

Similarly, Psycho (1960) by Alfred Hitchcock, though a bit later, exemplifies the mastery of suspense over explicit horror. The infamous shower scene is terrifying not because of what is shown but because of the skilful editing and Bernard Herrmann's shrieking score, which combine to make the audience's imagination run wild.

Tobe Hooper's groundbreaking The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) is often credited with kickstarting the slasher subgenre. While it is known for its graphic content, the film actually shows very little on-screen violence, relying instead on its gritty, documentary-style filmmaking and relentless pacing to create a sense of terror.

In contrast, modern horror films have embraced a more diverse and complex approach to fear. The genre has expanded to include subgenres like psychological horror, horror-comedy, body horror, and more, reflecting a broadening of audience tastes. Modern horror films often delve into the psychological and emotional depths of their characters, creating a more immersive and intense experience for viewers.

For example, Hereditary (2018) by Ari Aster is a modern masterpiece that combines supernatural horror with deep psychological trauma. The film explores themes of grief, family dysfunction, and inherited evil, creating a sense of dread that is both external and internal. The horror is as much about the characters' mental and emotional unravelling as it is about the malevolent forces at play.

Train to Busan (2016) by Yeon Sang-ho reinvigorated the zombie genre with its intense action sequences and emotional depth. While zombies have been a staple of horror for decades, Train to Busan uses the claustrophobic setting of a moving train to create a constant sense of urgency. The film also explores themes of sacrifice, class struggle, and human nature, making it more than just a typical zombie flick.

Technological advancements have also played a crucial role in shaping modern horror. The use of CGI and advanced special effects has allowed filmmakers to create more realistic and visually stunning monsters and supernatural phenomena. Films like It (2017) and Insidious (2010) utilise state-of-the-art visual effects to enhance their scares, creating a visceral experience that keeps audiences on edge.

Moreover, the found-footage subgenre, popularised by films like Paranormal Activity (2007) and Incantation (2022), uses cameras and a documentary-style approach to create a sense of realism and immediacy. These films blur the line between fiction and reality, making the horror feel more personal and relatable.

Horror franchises are an excellent lens through which to examine the evolution of the genre. The Scream and The Ring franchises, for instance, illustrate how horror has adapted to audience expectations and modern innovations.

Scream (1996), directed by Wes Craven, revitalised the slasher genre with its meta-narrative that both celebrated and subverted horror tropes. Its self-aware characters and witty dialogue made it a critical and commercial success. The recent Scream (2022) continued this tradition, blending the legacy of the original with commentary on modern horror trends and the impact of social media. Characters in the film attempt to secure themselves with modern alarm systems and digital locks, but these technologies often fail, reflecting contemporary anxieties about privacy and safety in the digital age.

Likewise, The Ring (1998) (originally Ringu), directed by Hideo Nakata, became iconic for its eerie atmosphere and its use of unsettling imagery tied to cursed VHS tapes. The franchise adapted to modern times by shifting its cursed object from VHS tapes to DVDs and MP4 files in Rings (2017), reflecting the ubiquity of digital content in contemporary life. This evolution shows how horror has adapted to new technologies, using them to enhance its scares while maintaining core elements.

Horror movies have always been a reflection of the anxieties and fears of their time. In the past, classic horror films often dealt with themes of otherness, the unknown, and the monstrous as a metaphor for societal fears—whether it was the fear of nuclear war, communism, or the collapse of traditional values. The monsters in these films were often external threats that could be confronted and defeated.

In contrast, modern horror frequently turns inward, exploring the darkness within human nature itself. Films like Hereditary, The Babadook (2014), and Midsommar (2019) tackle issues like identity, guilt, and moral ambiguity, often leaving audiences with more questions than answers. The fear is no longer just about external monsters but about the horrors that lie within ourselves and our society.

Horror has also become more socially conscious, using the genre to comment on real-world issues. Get Out (2017) and Us (2019) explore racial tensions and class struggles, while The Invisible Man (2020) reinterprets a classic horror story as a commentary on domestic abuse and gaslighting. This shift reflects a growing desire for horror that is not only scary but also intellectually engaging.

The evolution of horror movies from the classic era to the present day reflects not only advancements in filmmaking but also shifts in cultural fears and psychological understanding. While old horror relied on atmosphere, implied terror, and slow-building suspense, modern horror has expanded the genre's boundaries, incorporating psychological complexity, social commentary, and technological innovation.

Both old and modern horror have their strengths and appeal, catering to different tastes and expectations. Whether you're drawn to the psychological tension of Rosemary’s Baby (1968) or the mind-bending twists of The Witch (2015), the genre continues to thrive, proving that our fascination with fear is as timeless as the monsters that haunt our screens.

Ultimately, the comparison between old horror and modern-day horror reveals that while the methods of scaring audiences may have changed, the essence of horror remains the same—it's about tapping into our deepest fears, whether through the shadowy corridors of a haunted castle or the psychological mazes of the human mind. Horror, in all its forms, continues to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of our collective fears and anxieties.

Every year, for Deepavali, the world glows a little warmer. Houses shimmer in fairy lights, the doorways become runaway of colours, kitchens smell of ghee and cardamoms, the air hums with the rustles of new clothes, and the sound of sparklers competes with laughter. From grand mansions to tiny homes, each household has its own rhythm, and its own warmth.

Then, there’s this house.

Small, cheerful, and the music crackling from the television can be heard throughout the neighbourhood undoubtedly. Right at the doorway, two sisters kneel, chatting and giggling as they begin their favourite Deepavali ritual — creating rangolis. The elder sister carries a basket of fresh flowers: roses, jasmines, and chrysanthemums. The younger sister brings out packets of coloured rice powders: bright yellow, striking pink, navy blue, and cherry red. They work side by side every year, never competing, always laughing.

But what the sisters don’t know is that down there, on the ground before the doorway, their creations have opinions. When the sisters head inside for murukku break, these rangoli divas come alive.

The floral rangoli is a soft, fragrant diva. All poise and class.

“Ah, another year of elegance. Nothing beats the natural charm of roses… and jasmines… and chrysanthemums.”

The rice powder rangoli smirks.

“Charm? You’re just a wilted centerpiece by sunset.”

“At least I smell divine,” 

Floral rangoli retorts, voice sweet but sharp.

“Meanwhile, you’re a buffet for ants before the diyas are even lit.”

Rice powder rangoli grins proudly.

“Exactly. I serve a purpose. I feed. I share. I contribute. What do you do? Sit around and shed petals like a dramatic old lady.” 

Floral rangoli gasps. 

“Excuse me?”

Their colours seem to pulse with their tempers — white and pink swirling in tiny sparks of rivalry. Then, a warm, lazy voice cuts through.

“Girls, really?”

 Diya says, flickering between them. 

“You two are only beautiful when I am placed.”

Both turn toward her, exasperated.

“Oh, here she goes,” 

Rice powder mutters. Then both rangolis roll their eyes in perfect sync.

 “Sure, sure,” Floral rangoli says. “Here comes her annual monologue.”

And just like that, the doorway becomes a drama stage again. Every year, it's the same bickering. 

But this Deepavali, something feels different. Same doorway. The sisters exchange a look mischievously.

“You know, we always make them separately.” 

One says thoughtfully,

“Yeah, let’s mix them this time!”

The other nods cheerfully.

Mix? 

Before anyone can protest, flowers shower over the powders and powders sprinkle over the flowers. Orange meets chrysanthemums. Blue dusts the edges of jasmines.

“Wait—what’s happening?” Floral rangoli yelps.

“Your petal’s trespassing on my border!” Rice powder rangoli cries.

“Your powder’s on my rose!”

“Well, your rose is crushing my symmetry!”

Diya laughs, her flame swaying.

“Ah, drama. My festival is never dull.”

Finally, when the sisters step back to admire their creation, even the bickering stops. The new rangoli glows under diya’s light. A radiant fusion of softness and sparkle. Not floral. Not powdered. Something… together. The sisters sigh, satisfied.

“Best one yet,” one says.

“Definitely,” the other agrees.

As guests arrive, compliments float in.

“This one’s gorgeous!” someone says. 

“So unique!”

Phones flash. Laughter sparkles. The diya burns brighter, pleased. Down below, the rangolis rest content.

“Maybe we’re better together,” one admits softly.

“Maybe we always were, because we both bring prosperity together.” the other smiles.

As the night deepens with bursts of laughter and fireworks, the home fills with golden glow. Outside, the doorway gleams — a harmonious blend of flower, powder, grace, and pride.

And, just like that, this Deepavali, these rangoli divas don’t just decorate the entrance, they don’t just rewrite their history, they welcome light, prosperity, and each other.

There’s something enchanting about the hush that falls just before the first note of a concert—the promise of something beautiful, unexpected, and extraordinary. On May 17th, at Taylor’s Lakeside Campus, the Taylor’s Symphony Orchestra (TSO) turned that promise into reality with Press Start: Symphony Mode—a video game-themed concert that didn’t just play music; it transported its audience through worlds of fantasy, nostalgia, and high-stakes heroism.

From pixelated classics to sweeping modern epics, every piece on the setlist was a gateway to a virtual universe, brought vividly to life by a full symphony orchestra. It was, simply put, a gamer’s dream… in symphonic form.

At the heart of TSO’s success of the night stood Sunny Chew Hwai Sun, the orchestra’s Founder and Principal Conductor, and Kok Jia Herng, its dedicated student conductor.

“Music is part of your life—don’t stop making music wherever you go.” Sunny Chew quoted. Sunny, who co-founded TSO in 2008, is entirely self-taught—having learned to conduct through masterclasses, observation, and a deep love for music. With 16 years on the podium, he continues to lead with a belief that music is for everyone.

Alongside him, Jia Herng brought youthful precision and heart. A clarinetist and pianist with over a decade of experience, he handled multiple pieces with elegance and control, proving himself a rising talent with a passion for classical expression.

Together, the duo led the orchestra through a dynamic program filled with emotional highs, chilling moments, and joyful nostalgia.

The concert opened with the quirky chaos of the Plants vs. Zombies Suite, setting a playful and dramatic tone. From there, the journey spanned across gaming generations:

Projected visuals danced behind the orchestra—iconic scenes, glimmering animations, and familiar faces that helped bring each world to life. But the real storytelling didn’t only come from the screen—it came from the stage.

A brief intermission followed—a bathroom break and breath of fresh air before the concert dove deeper into darker, more dramatic realms. 

Conductor and orchestra moved as one, their chemistry palpable. It was evident that this was more than just performance—it was passion. Every crescendo mimicked a level-up; every diminuendo, a moment of silent awe. The music didn’t just play about games—it played like a game, taking the audience through battles, heartbreaks, victories, and quiet moments of wonder.

Besides the projected visuals, what made Press Start: Symphony Mode truly immersive wasn’t just the music—it was the visual storytelling. Many TSO members came dressed to theme:

• The percussionists wore sunflower petal headpieces, echoing Plants vs. Zombies
• Brass players donned Pokémon headbands, bouncing with every note
• Several string players cosplayed as Genshin Impact characters, flowing capes, big bows, and all

It was whimsical, immersive, and undeniably fun—proof that TSO knows how to play in every sense of the word.

As the Super Mario Bros. Medley wrapped, the hall erupted. “Encore! Encore! Encore!” The chant grew louder, until the orchestra returned triumphantly for an electrifying encore: Undertale’s Megalovania. The performance was relentless, chaotic, and glorious—like the final boss battle of your favorite game. The crowd whooped and whistled. Controllers weren’t needed—just applause.

One of the most magical elements of the night was the audience. A mix of students, families, video gamers, and music aficionados, they were a living testament to how video game music bridges generations and genres. There were gasps of recognition at the opening notes of familiar tunes, quiet chuckles during quirky interludes, and applause that burst forth like critical hit animations.

Between pieces, murmurs of “I used to play this with my brother,” or “That’s from my favorite dungeon level!” floated through the air. People didn’t just listen—they relived. This was more than entertainment—it was a tribute to childhoods, to stories played out in virtual realms, now relived through real instruments.

The evening ended with hugs, bouquets, and proud families—one even booking an entire row to cheer on their loved one. Students, families, and fans snapped endless photos with instruments, props, and one another, the post-concert atmosphere as joyful and vibrant as the music itself.

No concert is complete without merch, and Press Start: Symphony Mode delivered with its quirky, limited-edition keychain series: The Quacks. These ducky tributes to video game characters stole hearts and wallets alike:

Press Start: Symphony Mode wasn’t just a concert. It was a cultural crossover event, a bold and beautiful experiment in storytelling, where the lines between virtual and reality blurred in the best way possible. TSO proved that video game music belongs on the concert stage—right alongside Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Mahler. Because these soundtracks? They’ve scored our lives. And on this unforgettable evening, those melodies came alive, not from speakers, but from passion and instruments.

While Press Start: Symphony Mode may have ended with thunderous applause and a heartfelt standing ovation, this isn’t the end of TSO’s journey. In fact, it’s only the beginning of Level Two.

Taylor’s Symphony Orchestra is said to return in October 2025 for their annual concert, and if Press Start: Symphony Mode was any indication, you’ll want to clear your calendar for what’s coming next. Follow their adventures on Instagram: @t.symphonyorchestra

Whether you’re a music lover, or simply curious, take it from us—you don’t want to miss their next boss battle.

On 20 September 2025, Taylor’s University became a place of joy, connection, and discovery as the Active Ageing Impact Lab, together with Shine Ambassadors and Hospital Selayang, proudly hosted the Active Ageing Festival 2025. With the theme “Wellness for Ageing” this collaboration brought seniors, students, caregivers, and medical professionals together for a day that blended celebration and knowledge.

As Malaysia moves closer to becoming an aged nation, this festival carried a special meaning: it was not only about staying healthy, but also about staying connected, active, and inspired with ourselves and each other.

From the very first hour, excitement was in the air. Participants were welcomed at the registration counters before exploring the many activity booths outside The Grand Hall. There was something for everyone: bean bag toss, speed ball cups, colour match games, and even a Chinese calligraphy corner where seniors tried their hand at brush strokes. For those more health-focused, booths offered blood sugar checks, blood pressure tests, and grip strength assessments, giving useful insights into personal wellness.

At 9:00am, everyone gathered in The Grand Hall for a lively fitness session led by two energetic instructors. Using resistance bands, they demonstrated simple exercises that seniors could practice at home. Some brave participants even went up on stage, much to the delight of the cheering audience. The message was clear: staying fit can be fun at any age.

The Opening Ceremony began with a warm speech by Assoc Prof Dr. Yau Weng Keong, Director of the Active Ageing Impact Lab, followed by remarks from YB Tuan Wong Chen, who officiated the event. Both reminded us how important it is to prepare for an ageing society while celebrating the strengths and wisdom that come with growing older.

The performances that followed brought colour and culture to the stage. From the elegant Malay dance by Tari Mas and Inang Saari dancers, to the lively Chinese dance by Mr. Oon’s Subang Jaya group, the hall was filled with rhythm and applause. 

Then came a surprise flash mob, where everyone was invited to join in the fun. It was a truly unforgettable sight, with seniors and students dancing side by side.

The festival also offered practical workshops designed to help seniors and families manage real-life challenges. Topics included:

Each session gave participants not just information, but also confidence to face the future with positivity.

Running alongside the festival was a medical symposium for healthcare professionals, hosted in the lecture halls of Taylor’s University. Esteemed doctors and specialists shared their expertise on topics such as dementia detection, Parkinson’s disease, palliative care, frailty management, and even surgical challenges for elderly patients.

While more technical in nature, the symposium added great value to the festival by ensuring that the spirit of active ageing is supported by the latest research and medical practices. Many participants felt reassured knowing that the country’s best experts are working hard to improve healthcare for older adults.

After a hearty lunch at Arcadia and more workshops in the afternoon, the festival concluded with the much-anticipated lucky draw. Smiles lit up the room as winners walked away with their prizes, and the day officially closed with a sense of warmth and accomplishment.

The Active Ageing Festival 2025 was more than just an event—it was a celebration of life. It showed that ageing is not something to fear, but something to embrace with energy, wisdom, and support from the community.

From games and dancing to heartfelt stories and medical insights, every moment reflected the festival’s promise: where passion for healthy ageing meets expert care. Participants left not only with knowledge, but also with memories of laughter, friendship, and a renewed belief that the golden years can truly be golden.

by @zenigiri

Music is more than just a sound; it's a silent best friend that walks with us through every step of our journey. If there was ever a song you’d name at any time, what would it be? Would it be a song that replayed over and over in your mind after hearing it multiple times on the radio? Or would it be a tune that carried the fond memories you'd never forget?

There is always that one song that got you through the good and the bad, serving as a reminder of something or someone. Without you realising, our music has been one of those that has been a “best friend” to us all in the ups and downs of our journey as we walk this earth.

Music is a universal language that everyone around the world could connect to, and it has the ability to make us happy, sad, or experience a whole rollercoaster ride as we ride through our playlist. It transports us to a whole other universe in that very moment as we slowly immerse ourselves into its melody that is built by its composition of sounds layered from a once-empty track into a soulful mix of melodies and voices to form its masterpiece.

At any point in time, music has always been there. In your favourite films, at that restaurant you’re dining in, at the supermarket or even just within your reach — your device. It’s the music that got you on your feet to dance, the lyrics that hit the spot, and accurately express your thoughts and feelings. There were nights that went on, crying our hearts out while our playlist just went on and on, and nights that you blasted the loudest music you had in your playlist because you were frustrated.

It is a melody that remembers it all, connecting us back to that time. Do you remember a time when that song held and comforted you through those unbearable moments? Surely that one song popped up in your mind! The ambience that the music itself brought up, bringing life into your day, be it an upbeat pop song, an orchestra at a formal event, a romantic song to express your love or even an emotional song that got you through that unbearable night.

“It’s better to be held than holdin’ on” 

— “She’s in the Rain” by The Rose

Despite having never experienced an imagination-like scenario, the combination of each lyric and melody brings you into a first-hand experience of it, feeling its emotion as if you are living in the shoes of the character in the song.

“후회하지 않도록 지금 이 순간 최선을 다해 널 사랑하는 것” 

Translation: “With no regrets, I will love you with my best at this very moment”

— “Mortal” by ENHYPEN

With music being present at every point in our lives, it carries our memories. It is a carrier, a journey, a best friend, who holds us in both the good and bad moments.

“Yes, they’re sharing a drink called loneliness but it's better than drinkin’ alone” 

— “Piano Man” by Billy Joel

If you were to pick a song you’d hear for one last time in this life, what is your tune?