Brian Kulman author page
1 puzzle by Brian Kulman
with Jeff Chen comments
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| T | E | D | D | R | O | O | L | S | F | U | N | D | S | K | O | N | G |
The NYT Magazine has a huge distinction over most crossword formats — its ability to print in color opens so many possibilities for creativity. The NYT crossword doesn't take advantage of this nearly enough, so I love what today's is trying to do. It was a lot of fun to figure out some of the emoji sequences, like the rocketship + gorilla + statue of liberty = PLANET OF THE APES.
I see Will Shortz's hesitation to do this too often, though. What about electronic solvers, especially those using Across Lite or other programs with limited capabilities? It's no fun to open up a file and be alerted that "this puzzle has elements unreproducible in electronic formats." Read: "you're screwed."
If you're one of those disgruntled folks, take a look at what Jim Horne did (below) to display those emoji. Why not buy a paper now and then, and enjoy the innovation that a less modern format can bring?
(NYT printers, I am available for sponsorship.)
Today's grid is a good example of why Will sticks to a 140-word minimum. He allowed Brian to go to 142 words, and while that meant Brian's construction job was easier — especially important for a rookie — there weren't a lot of bonuses. I did like GAL GADOT and STAR TREK (what, no Spock-ear + aliens + Starfleet insignia emoji?), but there wasn't much else otherwise. For people who don't connect to the theme, that can be an important factor.
Given that Brian did an admirable job of keeping his grid clean, a few more bonuses at the cost of more minor glue dabs like ORO and NEG would have helped.
Overall, I love the creative thinking, using the NYT Magazine's distinctive capabilities. I wanted a tighter theme, though, as the movie selection felt scattershot, drawn from the giant pool of thousands of recognizable movies out there. It'd have been incredible if there had been some extra layer — maybe all animated movies?