The stag issue 87

THE STAG

May Issue 87_2016

STUDENT MAGAZINE UNIVERSITY OF SURREY

REVIEW: ZOOTROPOLIS See what all the fuss is about with Disney’s new discrimination tackling blockbuster.

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START YOUR POLITICAL CONVERSATION There has never been a more interesting time to start talking politics.

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TALL IS HER BODY A trip to the mysterious island of Dominica to work with scientists, the tale of an inquisitive mind.

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WHITE LIGHT (POEM)

GRACE BLENCOWE

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JEREMY CORBYN

MUST SEE MUSICALS

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START YOUR POLITICAL CONVERSATION

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ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

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S E R WHY I WON’T BE VOTING INTHE EU REFERENDUM

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OPINION

EDITOR’S LETTER

So here we are, the final issue of the year. What can I say that won’t sound like the ultimate cliché?

We try to fight it but cliché moments are just that for a reason, the advice will always be ‘work hard’, the lesson will always be ‘well learnt’ and of course the tough times will always be met with ‘everything happens for a reason’. As much as I would love to leave you readers with a profound and awe-inspiring letter it seems more likely that my youthful wisdom amounts to something that will fall straight back into that category of cliché. So why not embrace it? I will say that it’s been a great year and that I’ve enjoyed it immensely without grimacing at the fact so many people have said it before me. I’ll thank every writer that contributed and each member of the committee for putting endless effort in and making the magazine what it was this year because its true and not just because it’s what people say. Most importantly I’ll hope that anyone who has been inspired to get involved keeps up with the magazine, it has been a wonderful part of my time here at Surrey.

So there you have it, as cliché as they come but I for one am happy to claim this as my own personalised cliché moment. Here’s to a good year and to whomever the gauntlet will pass over to next (awkwardly raises an imaginary glass in a room by himself).

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E D I T O R I A L EDITOR: IBRAHIM SARWAR MARKETING: NICK DUFFY DESIGN: DAGMAR ELLEFSEN OPINION: JOSHUA LANGLEY SOCIETIES: CALVIN JOR ENTERTAINMENT: MATTHEW NOLAN ARTS: GEORGIA PRIDDEN CREATIVE: MEGAN WILSON SPORT: JOE DUFFY SCI-TECH: CONNOR IBBETSON FASHION: AKEY KHATUN BEAUTY: AKEY KHATUN FEATURES: CHARLOTTE HUTCHINS LITERATURE: KYRIAKI KOUTTA QUALITY CONTROL: MEGAN WILSON WRITERS: EMMA FLEMING RICARDO MENDES DANIEL NOON EVA FELDMAN VICTORIA HILL-CHALMERS MOLLY MILES CHLOE OUTEN RHIANNON HUTCHINGS HARRIET HICKS JONATHAN FEASEY VASILIKI PAPADOPOULOU ELLIE EGLETON DESIGN: CONNOR IBBETSON PHOTOS: JAIME GONZALEZ GUITERREZ MOHAMMAD SIKANDAR RANA MOLLY MILES JONATHAN SHAW TINE VIELAND JENSEN

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BEAUTY

A LOOK BACK AT BEAUTY WEEK

In March The Stag Beauty team organised a Beauty Week with different talks each day.

On the 7th of March we had MAC MUA Brook King come in and do a day look. During the talk Brook talked through the benefits of certain products and different techniques to use. It was full of fun packed activities and questions, plus we revealed our worst make up looks! The week carried on from a bloggers and vloggers panel to us having London’s upcoming salon owner and young entrepreneur Dina Amai.

We finished the week with Brook again; however we were lucky enough to have another MAC MUA Troy Clarke alongside Brook. They both finished with a night look with different looks and let’s just say that both looks were amazing! We couldn’t choose which one was better!

I am so thankful to everyone who attended and supported Beauty Week! It wouldn’t have happened without each and every individual, I am so proud of my team for working so hard and efficiently (It was literally like the Devil Wears Prada guys!). /Akey Khatun

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MYTH “A goldfish’s memory lasts only three seconds” POEM

‘White Light’

Darkness falls, Yet, then, Brightness rises And with a delicate touch Illuminates.

Waves of water and sand Cascading As if a waterfall And within the moonlight glow A point of white, Shining through the night.

The shroud disperses And behind that former Night Is seen the glint of an eye, The hint of a faded smile.

Megan Wilson, Creative Editor

FACT “Studies have found that goldfish can retain information for months” MUST SEE MUSICALS Reviews by Georgia Pridden

1. LES MISERABLES (West End): This musical classic has been enthralling West End audiences for 30 years and it’s no surprise why. The cast is outstanding, the songs are as moving as ever and the story retains its power and energy. An incredible show filled with incredible people.

Rating 5/5 2. HAIRSPRAY (UK Tour): The UK tour of Hairspray is fun, it leaves you grinning out the theatre.

The cast is great, they convey the comedy and craziness of the show well, even if their accents feel a little weak at points. Overall it’s an upbeat show that throws you into 1960s America and leaves you with an endearing moral.

Rating 4/5 3. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (West End): The show is incredible. The cast, the music, the staging, the costumes, all together makes the show so enchanting. So don’t miss out, revisit this Webber classic and let the spectacle astound you.

Rating 5/5

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OPINION

FemSoc interview:

Grace Blencowe /Josh Langley, Opinions Editor

Tell me a little bit about yourself and the society you founded last year?

My name is Grace Blencowe, I am a third year sociology placement student and I founded the feminist society 2 years ago. I was president last year (14/15) and due to placement I have taken a break from the society, though I still identify as a feminist and keep up to date with what is occurring in the world.

Do you feel white Feminists in the West can sometimes focus too heavily on first world issues and ignore the bigger picture? –e.g. the positioning of female presenters relative to their male colleagues.

Ultimately, yes I feel that white feminists (or Western feminists as a whole), it can be argued at times do lose sight of the atrocities going on in other places in the world and as a result these complaints can seem petty and minimal (which in relation to issues such as FGM and 8

child marriage are on a much lower level) however, I also see the need to challenge the everyday issues as I believe they are a large part of the picture. They are the small everyday snippets of evidence that sexist and unequal attitudes still exist and I think without questioning these, the little incidents are normalised and are a part of our society that can degrade women and I think that if we are to help women in worse situations there needs to be a voice that is heard and not ridiculed. I do think it is a massive balancing act between not being blinded by white Western privilege and also not assuming the West is better than everywhere else in the world and assuming that every other woman outside of the West is oppressed. I think the job is to enable a voice and enable action to happen but not to overshadow the conversation which in both conversations about “smaller” issues and the bigger picture which I don’t think white feminists (of which I

OPINION

am one) have quite down with yet.

What do you feel are the biggest issues facing women a) globally and b) Nationally here in the UK? For me globally is access to education; an estimated 31 million girls of primary school age and 32 million girls of lower secondary school age were out of school in 2013 (UNICEF) and there is still an attitude that women’s education is less important than men’s and that’s just criminal because that’s 63 million minds that will not have the chance to thrive just because of their gender. I think we still in 2016 regard a man’s brain as superior (we still learn more about the revolutionary men in education in the UK than the women). We need to learn about these people and we need to be those people and actually inspire the belief that education and the mind is valuable, regardless of gender.

Nationally, and this is mainly because my placement this year gives me knowledge that this occurs, sexual exploitation the fact that young girls (and to a smaller extent boys) are being groomed and I know this does happen globally but it is still happening in a country which is seen to be so progressive There are so many other issues (body shaming, abuse, violence, decreased life chances etc etc.) That happen nationally and internationally

that are also extremely important and my highlighting those two issues in no way means I think those issues are less important. There is so much we have to work through as a nation and as a planet. We just have to take it one step at a time.

Do you think that the modern women’s equality movement is transphobic in any way –the recent controversy over Germaine Greer’s comments and the exclusion of male to female trans- from women’s refuges come to mind here?

Yes, I think there are different fractions of women’s equality movements and I think transphobia can fester in some of these settings (sometimes more ignorance than malice). It is still not OK and I think that it is extremely counter-productive to the movement.

It just breeds hate and there is no need for transphobic attitudes to be seen in circles trying to help people and just make lives better in 2016.

Do you agree with former US secretary of state Madeline Albright that there is a special place in hell for women that don’t help each other?

I don’t believe in hell, but I think that everyone should help everyone.

Show some damn respect people and just be a decent person, whatever you identify as just be nice. I do think there are lines though with that particular quote, specifically thinking

about the American elections where those attitudes are bouncing around with Hilary Clinton (women’s duty to vote for other women). No person has a duty because of their gender and I also don’t think that a person is necessarily the best president just because of their gender, I think you should just be a good person but shouldn’t be quilted or feel indebted because of your gender.

What do you feel are the prospects for the new Women’s Equality Party?

I don’t know, I support the women’s equality party but I think that ultimately a change in attitude is slow burning so do not know how they would fair in general elections considering conservatives won this year...

Are there any other points that you would like to make?

I think that the key with women’s issues is just joining people together.

Integration as opposed to exclusion.

I think we need to empower people and empower each generation to speak up and use their voice without taking the colonial approach that our society is superior in women’s rights because our society does have its own issues that are important to address whilst also being overtly aware of what else is occurring outside your immediate community.

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OPINION

/Josh Langley, Opinions Editor

What does Jeremy Corbyn’s mandate really mean?

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Jeremy Corbyn was elected leader of the Labour Party with the largest mandate any leader has ever received. However, the constant manner with which this fact is repeated by left-wing stalwarts and other ‘core-group’ supporters would suggest that it was a panacea for every problem that the party currently faces from internal division to the collapse of the party in Scotland and the loss of traditional ‘working-class’ support to UKIP. Corbyn’s most positive political qualities are his consistently held principled beliefs. He is renowned for being an opponent of nuclear proliferation and for being heavily involved with the Stop the War coalition. Maintaining a position in politics as a matter of principle is something that should be admired. We have seen with the likes of Hilary Clinton that many politicians are prepared to change their beliefs in order to win more votes. That said, politics is a process that requires a level of compromise in order to achieve positive change in people’s lives.

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In Corbyn’s case it would be better to put the issue of nuclear proliferation on the back burner; while concentrating more on being an effective opposition, working against the Conservatives Austerity Agenda and addressing issues on which he can have a direct impact on people’s daily lives now such as public transport, housing and cuts to local government. To put it quite simply reviewing Labour Party policy on the UKs nuclear deterrent is not an issue that should be addressed while in opposition.

It does not achieve anything and it is not an issue that most voters are concerned with.

However, the issue on which Corbyn has looked weakest is Europe. For years, he has been opposed to the EU on the principle that it is more concerned with the interests of business than working class people. However, we are now supposed to believe despite his appallingly weak campaigning he is wholeheartedly behind EU membership. While I am personally strongly in favour of remaining in the EU, I think it would have been far better from Corbyn’s point of view to have stood up and nailed his colours to the mast on this issue. Clearly, the Labour Party is split on the issue and he would have been unable to persuade all his colleagues to back Brexit, but it would have supported his principled persona. Instead, by faking his support for something he does not believe in, he has made himself look most

OPINION

cynical and ultimately like someone who can follow through on his ‘socialist pet projects’, but not on the issues that he does not have a personal interest in, but which have the most impact on people’s lives such as finance and the EU referendum.

only way to overcome conflict, this includes meeting with people that you fundamentally disagree with, including those deemed to be extremists or extremist sympathisers. This includes groups such as Hamas and Sinn Fein (which at one point was the political wing of the IRA). Moreover, the idea that this is only something pursued by crazy left-winger’s is just absurd, the Governments of both Thatcher and Blair met with representatives of both the IRA and Unionist extremist groups in order to reach The Good Friday Agreement which ended the troubles.

Moreover, even when Corbyn does identify an issue on which the government is failing - which let’s face it at the moment is fairly common - he fails to effectively capitalise on it. Whether it’s the summer floods, reductions to child benefit, the resignation of Ian Duncan Smith, all is allowed “Corbyn’s most to pass without effectively chalFurthermore, in order for the Lalenging the Government’s record. positive political bour Party to be in a position where While Corbyn is wasting his time on qualities are his it can act as an effective opposifashionable left-wing student polition to this appalling Government consistently held tics such as nuclear disarmament, is for Jeremy Corbyn to consideraour slimy ,odious Chancellor - who principled beliefs” bly up his game, by making some of the changes that I suggest I genuinely believe enjoys cutting public services - and mediocre PR above. Unfortunately, Corbyn’s man of a Prime Minister are reeking character suggests to me that he will remain committed to his views, no matter how our country. the world around him changes like all committed, old Despite the opinions I have expressed above, there left wing socialists. The only other option to save the is one criticism of Corbyn that I feel is exceedingly party is for him to go and to go quickly. Sadly, the unfair and in many cases wrong. This is the sugges- Labour party has never been very good at removing tion put out in the right-wing media particularly by hopeless, unpopular leaders such as Ed Miliband the tabloid press that Corbyn is an extremist sym- and Gordon Brown, which means the choice to do pathiser. First of all, this is illogical, he is a pacifist something about the current leadership of the Laand would not support any form of violence, whoever bour Party is Corbyn’s alone. was advocating it. Secondly, talking to people is the 11

OPINION

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OPINION

©Photo by Kyle Cassidy, available under a Creative Commons CC-BY 2.5 Attribution license.

Start your political conversation It is a truth universally acknowledged that ‘friends and politics don’t mix’ /Matthew Nolan

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don’t think anyone knows exactly where that ‘golden’ piece of relationship advice originated from, but we have nevertheless accepted it at face value, overlooking its closemindedness in the hope it will somehow aid us in our everyday networking.

Now, thankfully, two people are exposing the sheer silliness of this notion that political differences spell the end for friendships unless they are silenced.

Namely: Chelsea Clinton and Ivanka Trump.

The ongoing friendship between the daughters of major U.S. presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump has attracted moderate (but not great) media interest across the pond. I think the reasons behind why it’s not be-

come a major talking point are twofold: a Clinton vs. Trump ‘war’ makes for better ratings; and, to a lot of people, it doesn’t seem to make any sense.

Both women are politically vocal and supportive of their competing parents’ campaigns, but at the same time, they are able to remain supportive of each other. The media has trouble digesting that, branding their friendship ‘unusual’, ‘unlikely’, and ‘fragile’, especially as the election progresses.

But the key to understanding why friends and politics do in fact mix lies in Chelsea’s comment during a 2015 interview with Entertainment Tonight: “Ivanka and I talk about everything.”

Everything.

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OPINION

We are often worried that acknowledging our political differences could put a strain on our relationships

Although politics is a contentious topic, Ivanka and Chelsea don’t conform to this prevailing societal view that because of the danger of conflict, it’s far better to avoid talking about some topics like politics altogether.

distant, well-liked and generically ‘relatable’ than when we actually seem genuinely caring or unique.

There’s a pressure on all of us to have many friends that we only know vaguely, rather than a few that we know very well.

We are often worried that acknowledging our political differences will put a strain on our relationships, yet in reality, it is our ignoring of differences that creates the biggest problem. Continually evading conflict shields us from opportunities to connect deeply with other people.

Particularly on social media, with a constant pressure to count likes on each post or picture. (Would you rather have 100 likes or a comment of 100 words? Why?).

Perhaps that is why our society today promotes such a casual, care-free attitude to life: we’re less vulnerable when we appear

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Instead of trying to avoid personal topics, in the fear of conflict or appearing ‘uncool’, we should be viewing our differences as opportunities to learn more about others – and in the process, ourselves.

Thomas Jefferson once said that

“I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend.” Yet this perspective remains markedly absent from today’s discourse.

You can change the status quo by starting your political conversation with someone you know today.

And, instead of unfriending them the moment you discover, to your horror, that they’re not with you on foreign policy, education or immigration, remember that had you never mentioned it, that disagreement would have still existed between you the entire time.

But now you can talk about it.

Learn more about them and yourself in the process. Your friendship

OPINION

will be better because of it, if you’re mature enough to respect an opposing point of view.

You might be able to change their mind on a given issue, they might be able to change yours – or maybe you’re both equally stubborn. But regardless, whatever the differences are, it’s best to get them out in the open.

We can pretend that our ‘principles’ prevent us from making friends with people of opposing views, but I bet you’ve already surrendered many of them in attempts to appear ‘cool’ and to avoid conflict in the first place.

We should be viewing our differences as opportunities to learn more about others

In short, not only can friends and politics mix, they should.

If Chelsea and Ivanka can make it work, so can you.

©Photo by Marc Nozell, available under a Creative Commons CC-BY 2.0 Attribution license.

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OPINION

What ‘The Stag’ Has Taught Me My year at the stag /Matthew Nolan

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OPINION

The Stag has taught me that you do not have to have the largest platform to make a difference

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n October 2015, I remember pushing myself to go along to one of the first Stag events, completely out of my comfort zone. I didn't know anyone - and it felt like everyone knew everyone - so although I wanted to contribute, I felt like I wouldn't fit in at all and didn't expect to stick with it.

Not only was everyone welcoming, but I worked out very early on that they were also some of the least judgemental people I've ever met. I, therefore, decided to stay.

Working here – first as a writer, and then also as Entertainment Editor – has since taught me several important things.

Firstly, and perhaps most obviously, The Stag has taught me how a magazine is written, designed and marketed, and of the value of student journalism when trying to secure work experience. It is because of this magazine that I now have journalistic work experience lined up this summer.

But The Stag has also taught me how to take ideas and turn them into a reality, how to effectively collaborate with others in a team to create things that would otherwise be unimaginable.

As part of The Stag, I’ve conducted interviews with incredible people from different backgrounds, from

different countries, with different dreams and ambitions.

I’ve tried to raise awareness for many important issues but also bring people together in the process.

From encouraging young people to vote, to questioning whether the content we watch and read every day is controlled unfairly, to starting political discussions with their friends, I’ve always wanted to make a difference by getting students talking about the issues that affect them.

The Stag has taught me that you do not have to have the largest platform to make a difference. That if you really want to, you can reach and influence thousands of people without ever having to be immeasurably rich, famous or beautiful. All you have to do is start writing.

On World Down Syndrome Day this year, a public service announcement intended to raise awareness of the genetic condition, entitled ‘HOW DO YOU SEE ME?’, went viral.

In it, a girl my age called AnnaRose made a remark that’s stayed with me ever since: “I see myself as an ordinary person, with an important, meaningful, beautiful life.”

The Stag hasn’t taught me that, it’s made me feel it.

All you have to do is start writing 17

OPINION

© Megan Wilson

“Let’s put aside the cartoons, the flowers, the Facebook profile filters, the ambiguous tweets and pretty murals”

Elephant in the room - What we’re too afraid to talk about after Paris and Brussels. /Ricardo Mendes, Opinions Writer

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ust four days after the arrest of Salah Abdeslam (the escaped logistics man and would-be Paris attacker) in Brussels, the city has been shaken to its core by a series of bombings on the Maalbeek metro and Brussels airport. At least 31 lives have been taken with more than 137 injured and despite the outcry on social media, the platitudes of politicians and the repeated promises for more security, I fear that little progress will be made out of this.

It is important that after terrorist attacks we do not give into fear; although, I have yet to materialise fear of ISIS and their followers, I instead have my fears invested in the kind of dialogue and discussion our society is facing after the attacks.

Society has always been bound by taboos, pressure to be polite and not to rock the boat—and although these are legitimate considerations, in the wake of the atrocities we face, we cannot allow ourselves to be straight-jacketed by the niceties of polite conversation.

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One of the Brussels bombers, Ibrahim el-Bakraoui, has been reported to have been flagged by Turkey on the Turkish-Syrian border. Several warnings and police investigations had all the perpetrators on record and yet action was not taken soon enough. This was rooted (as some have argued) in fears about racism and stereotyping. And for that, dozens of people lost their lives.

Many have started to see a pattern emerge with other crimes committed by men of Asian, Middle Eastern, or North African appearance: that people are, in fact, too afraid to speak out for fear of being accused of racism.

However, there are cases in which overzealous reporting has led to arrests or unneeded investigation of individuals. Recall the case of the 14 year old “clock boy” Ahmed Mohamed, who was suspended and arrested (although later had charges dropped) on allegedly bringing a hoax bomb to class, when in fact it was a prototype clock.

Such instances are indicative of the opposite end of the pendulum when it comes to vigilance on terrorism.

The shift of public debate has meant that grievance for the dead and genuine investigation into the causes of terrorism has been secondary to catering to our fears of being perceived as racist or Islamophobic. All too often the conversations around terrorism are misguided —

OPINION

“I understand the need to defend Islam in the face of such terror”

solely blaming western military intervention, complaining about imbalanced media coverage of other terror acts, going on wide philosophical platitudes about unity or instead relying on a conversation change—rather than discussing the actual issue at hand.

I understand the need to defend Islam in the face of such terror. The men who commit these attacks do not represent the vast majority of Muslims nor do they represent the values that most people in the Muslim community have, but there are uncomfortable truths to be said regarding the ideology of these attackers. The need for niceties and politeness removes discussion of these truths from public debate and leaves them instead in the hands of far-right fringe groups and racists whom people ultimately will listen to if the majority are gagged from speaking out.

It is an established fact that these attackers did practice a religion, while interpreted in a way that is destructive and uncommon, meant that while terrorism as an act has no religion, this particular form of terrorism will always be rooted in a warped distortion of Islam and thus risks recruit from Muslims over any other group. These attackers exploited travel networks frequented by refugees and migrants as well as abused the freedom of the free-travel Schengen area to transport weapons and bomb-making materials. These are all difficult things to admit; we do not want to hastily clump refugees, migrants, and Muslims for the actions of a select few individuals. However, until we publicly recognise the issues in the Muslim community that cause radicalisation, recognise the security loopholes in the refugee/migrant crisis, as well as the downsides to some of the freedoms we have taken for granted on the European continent, public discussion of solutions to the scourge of radical Islamist terrorism will remain stagnant.

In the wake of both attacks I have seen members of the Muslim community ask, “Why is it my fault if Daesh carries out attacks?” and while not the fault of the moderate majority, the Muslim community is our biggest asset in combating terrorism. The attacks in Paris and Brussels largely happened because of the lack of dialogue between the Belgian police and the Muslim community in Brussels. The terrorists lived and worked among ordinary people; they were neighbours, co-workers, associates and acquaintances. This meant that the biggest well of

knowledge—more than any wiretap, police raid or interrogation—is, and will continue to be, the larger Muslim community. Ignoring the concerns and intelligence of Muslims across the Western world is completely counterproductive. Fears of racism, stereotyping or heavy-handedness should not prevent the utilisation of the best weapon we have to fight terrorism- Muslims. Our role is to welcome Muslim members of our communities so they are comfortable enough to admit the issues they face.

Dialogue cannot function if people refuse to speak.

So let’s put aside the cartoons, the flowers, the Facebook profile filters, the ambiguous tweets and pretty murals.

We have to feel free to discuss the worries about terrorism that we have but are unwilling to say for fear of being accused of racism. The far right will find any excuse they can to demonise the majority, but if they’re the only group willing to discuss uncomfortable truths, to go beyond the default responses to tragedy, then people will listen and be fed racism and lies with the grains of truth that they’ve monopolised. Meanwhile, the majority who will never be willing to listen to the far right will be left in the dark—unaware or afraid to speak out, stifling the free market of discussion and ideas in a very public dialogue about combating terrorism.

My fears of the capitalisation of the far right are not unfounded. Take the scandal of mass sexual exploitation undertaken by gangs of men of mostly Pakistani origin in Rotherham, Rochdale, Oxford and Derby. Groups such as the BNP and the EDL were the only groups willing to speak out on these appalling crimes for years as people, ordinary and in public office, covered them up. What happened then? The crimes went largely unnoticed by the public for some time and far right grew in support in the intervening period. It is completely destructive to allow this type of protocol to continue, especially in the case of terrorism. The rise of parties of the radical right has grown all across Europe, some just one election away from victory— perhaps, more due to our silence than our support. An open, free, dialogue on terrorism and our communities are the best solution we have to combat terrorism and securing a free society; it is the foundation of the brave liberal democracies we live in that terrorists so desperately seek to destroy with bombs and the instillation of fear.

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OPINION

Why I won't be voting in the EU Referendum

Will we stay or will we go? More to the point does it matter? /Daniel Noon

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OPINION

‘A referendum is essentially a process which is a step towards direct democracy and a step away from our representative democracy’

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s most of you will know, the British government is having a public referendum in June regarding whether Britain remains within the European Union (EU).

The media has been relentlessly reporting the two sides and which key politicians will be campaigning for each side. However, there is a third side that is being underreported: the 'I am not participating' side. Here I shall outline why I will not be voting in the EU referendum.

To start with a few disclaimers. Firstly, I voted in the general election last year and I thought participating in British democracy was a worthwhile experience. I strongly support people voting in general elections and being engaged in politics overall. I recommend that others, especially under-represented young people do participate in this process. However, the EU referendum is not a general election and here I argue the referendum is an undemocratic wolf dressed in democratic sheep's clothing.

For the second disclaimer I would like to make my position transparent, I favour remaining within the EU. However, whether you are an IN or OUT supporter, considerable thought needs to be taken as to how we decide which choices to make in a democracy. This should not be a discussion about the outcome of a decision but rather a discussion concerning procedures which lead to the outcomes.

So how do we usually make political decisions in Britain? We have in Britain a representative democracy which is rather different from a direct democracy. First we hold a general election in which candidates running to be Members of Parliament (MPs) that are allied with political parties, campaign on platforms which should hold opinions which distinguish candidates from one another on various issues. The public vote for candidates based on their geographic location, known as constituencies, and those elected are considered representatives of the voting population in their area. When it comes to a particular vote on a specific policy,

the MP essentially votes on behalf of their constituents and is paid to undertake this public service. In the last general election, to my dismay, the Conservative party candidates won in a majority of constituencies, keeping David Cameron as the Prime Minister.

This is rather different from direct democracy in which no representatives are elected and the public vote on an issue by issue basis. A referendum is essentially a process which is a step towards direct democracy and a step away from our representative democracy. The use of referendum has increased in liberal democracy in recent years and so far I have yet to see any critical thought about the use of this process in a democracy in regards to the EU referendum.

I see that in Australian politics, over the issue of gay marriage, people are more critical of a referendum as a means of achieving a political end.

So here I embark on a deconstruction of referendums.

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OPINION

‘A referendum is given legitimacy if there is a high voter turnout’ The Democratic Gap To begin, if we say a referendum is needed on a particular issue, it is also to imply that the referendum will reach a different outcome than if our political representatives voted for it. In other words, why should we spend a load of money if business-as-usual practices will provide the same outcome? With a referendum, assuming that there is a fair voting process and a fully informed public with complete turnout, a difference between this outcome and an outcome voted by Parliament representatives would show essentially a democratic gap within our current political system.

This democratic gap, if we want to live in a fair society, needs to be closed. Will a referendum close or reduce this gap? It will but only for the issue that is being voted upon. Having a referendum masks the symptoms of a failing representative democracy rather than closes this gap overall. I am in favour of reforming our representative democracy so that we can close this gap. A referendum doesn't support this and it is complete sophistry if a person asserts that a referendum is a sign of a healthy representative democracy.

Furthermore, the calculation of the democratic gap is based on a referendum which reaches criteria that no realistic government could expect to reach with this democratic process. The first assumption is that the political process is fair for both sides. OUT campaigners have already declared, whether rightly or wrongly, shenanigans with this process. This fairness criteria is so intangible and easily deconstructed that we can never be sure if it has truly been met. Usually, it is declared

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post hoc, as in, the procedural fairness is determined by whether the outcome confirmed or rejected the individual’s campaign.

The second assumption is that people are informed.

We know that direct democracy fails because people have lives and cannot invest a lifetime in researching all policies and anticipated outcomes. Accusations of fear tactics have already compromised the information presented to the public on this issue. We elect representatives not because they tell us all the decision they will make, but we trust that when given the information to make a decision, they will make the right one. The deal we have with representative democracy involves having to pay attention every 4-5 years and then go back to our lives. We then only pay attention now and then to question those who were elected to represent us.

Thirdly, there is an assumption of importance. If there is a democratic gap, then why is it only relevant to particular issues? Phrased differently, why are we having a referendum on EU membership and not on gay marriage, for example? Often at the pub, people have said it is because of the significance of the decision. Referendums are reserved for issues of constitutional importance. However, a benefit of representative democracy is that we can hold the representatives to account. In our individualistic legal system, we currently are unable to hold collectives to account. A referendum, therefore, can act without moral constraint. When it comes to this decision, we dip everyone's hands in the blood. Historically, plebiscites have transformed democratic governments into totalitarian states. Surely for issues of constitutional importance, we need ethical decision making.

OPINION

Lastly, the issue surrounds voter turnout. A referendum is given legitimacy if there is a high voter turnout. Participating in this process, therefore, legitimatizes referendums as a means of obtaining a democratic outcome. Given the problems I have with the process outlined above, I cannot, in good conscious participate if the process legitimizes decisions which are not morally constrained. Therefore, I will not be participating in the EU referendum.

There are other means to close the democratic gap, which I do endorse because they are fair, informed and morally constrained. For example, I am open to alternative voting systems. As someone politically left, it pains me to say that this could lead to more right-wing governments, but at least, it would be more democratic. A second idea is to increase accountability for representatives by introducing mechanisms to unseat your local MP and or subscribe MPs with greater legal duties. These methods will help treat the wound that is the democratic gap and not just place a bandage over it.

‘Why are we having a referendum on EU membership and not on gay marriage, for example?’ 23

Being a lone

female traveller in Southeast Asia Emma Fleming on travelling alone as a woman in South East Asia “I was incredibly aware of my personal security, and I come from London!!�

An 24

unexpected journey

FEATURES

“The Lone Female Traveller Top Ten Tips”

1 When abroad, think about how your cloth-

© Emma Fleming

ing will fit in with local customs – what are local women wearing?

2 Try not to wear expensive jewellery.

3 When travelling alone, you may attract

unwelcome attention and receive unwelcome propositions or remarks – ignore it.

4

En route to Australia in May last year, I took a few days to explore the iconic landmarks, experience the sights and sounds, and more importantly, to taste the exquisite foods of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia!

While I had an exceptional experience visiting the most unique 20.9-acre public aviary, visiting Bukit Bintang and standing under the 451-metre-tall Petronas Twin Towers, I recall my experience with hesitation.

Be it exploring the capital by train or bus, I was incredibly aware of my personal security, and I come from London!! The pink carriages, especially for female commuters, was off-putting and I was also wary of going out at night time or travelling back to my accommodation after dark. I seemed to attract a lot of attention in crowded places including shopping districts and airports, which made me feel very uncomfortable. Although this won’t be every lone female’s travelling experience to the country of Malaysia, and while I certainly don’t regret my adventure, I certainly

regretted not checking out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s local laws and customs page prior to my flight out there. This would have given me a greater understanding of the entirely different social setting I was stepping into and educated me on certain tips and considerations I could have taken with me that would have probably made me feel a little more at ease and safe.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office encourages people to be more prepared by researching the local laws and customs of any holiday destination they are considering to travel to. They also provide key information and advice to ensure you don’t get caught out while abroad and have information specifically for lone female travellers as unfortunately, women can sometimes be a target for criminals.

I urge any woman considering travelling alone this year to read ‘Appendix 2: advice for women travellers’ in a Policy paper on 2010 to 2015 government policy:

Plan your daily itinerary - know where you’re going, what you’re doing and how to get back.

5 Never hitchhike or accept car rides from strangers.

6 For airport transfers or early/late night

journeys, ask your hotel or hostel to recommend a trustworthy taxi firm.

7 When you are out for the evening, never

leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers.

8

Only use your first initial and no title (‘Miss’, ‘Ms’ or ‘Mrs’) when checking in.

9

Always remember to lock your room door even when you are inside the room.

10 If you ever feel uncomfortable or in

danger, don’t be afraid to draw attention to yourself by shouting and making a fuss.

British nationals overseas published by the FCO in partnership with the Ministry of Defence.

I came back from my travels tanned, loaded with souvenirs, anecdotes and a photo album full of the most incredible selfies, but some women are not always that lucky. So go and travel the world freely, as you should be able to, but also consider the FCO advice and use it to help you have a safe and amazing travel experience.

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FEATURES

Š Mohammad Sikandar Rana

If you are looking to gain work experience while benefiting a good cause, volunteering is a great place to start

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FEATURES

Careers and Employability Helping you make the most of your time at university /Eva Feldman

A

re you looking to gain work experience and boost your employability this summer?

Through its various services, the Careers and Employability Centre can help you find volunteering opportunities, earn money in a short-term position, or start your career with an internship in your field.

The Careers and Employability Centre offers numerous services to support your professional development, including interview tips, career guidance, and daily CV checks. Located in the Philip Marchant Building, the service can also be accessed online through our website (https://www.surrey.ac.uk/careers/). Additionally, updates are regularly communicated on Facebook (the University of Surrey Employability and Careers Centre), and Twitter (@careerssurrey).

If you are looking to gain work experience while benefiting a good cause, volunteering is a great place to start. While this work is generally unpaid, volunteering strengthens your CV. These opportunities can be found through the Student Union, online leaflets or directly in our office. Furthermore, information about short-term employment can also be found in our office, or website, and through Unitemps. Lastly, the Santander Universities SME Internships scheme is available to provide you with valuable industry relevant experience in key small businesses.

Whether you choose to volunteer, work at a temporary job, or explore your career options with an internship, the Careers and Employability Centre can provide you with the necessary information to help you gain work experience and boost your employability.

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FOOD

RECIPES

Š all photos by: Tine Vieland Jensen

BY:

Summer is finally within reach!

To get you all in the summer mood we have collected a few refreshing drinks with a taste of summer.

SUMMER LEMONADE: - 1 Orange - 2 dl frozen strawberries - 1-2 tbsp Honey (or sugar) - 2 cm ginger (peeled) - 5-7 dl Water 1. Squeeze the orange 2. Blend the orange juice, strawberries, honey and ginger 3. Add water and blend 4. Enjoy

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FOOD

HEALTHY ICED COFFEE

CHOCOLATE MILKSHAKE - 1 Frozen banana - 2 tsp cocoa powder - 1 date (or 1 tsp sugar) - 1.5 dl milk

For more recipes check out: www.Fitinspiration.dk Instagram: Fitinspirationdk /Tine Vieland Jensen Personal Trainer & Dietician

1. Blend all the ingredients and serve straight away.

- 1 dl Cold coffee - 1 dl Skimmed milk - 6 Ice cubes - honey/sugar (optional) - optional flavours: cinnamon, cocoa powder, vanilla, chai latte powder 1. Cool the coffee in the fridge until it is completely cold 2. Blend the milk (into foam) 3. Blend the milk foam with 3-4 ice cubes and coffee (+ honey and flavour) 4. Put the remaining ice cubes in a glass and pour the coffee over

CHOCOLATE OVERNIGHT OATS - Banana - Frozen strawberries - Blueberries - Pumpkin seeds - Oates - Chia 1. Blend banana, strawberries and blueberries 2. Add pumpkin seeds, oates, chia and some berries on top. 3. Enjoy 29

FOOD

GRANDAD’S

SALMON RISOTTO Ingredients

Risotto rice White wine -1/3 a bottle Pre-cooked slices of salmon X4 A large packet of spinach 1 large onion 2 medium sized cloves of garlic A small amount of ginger 1 packet of pine nuts Parmesan cheese Oil Butter Salt and pepper

Recipe Finely dice the onion, garlic, and ginger, grate between 1/3 and ½ of the parmesan cheese. Next, place the spinach into boiling water. Cook it until it’s done. Place it into a bowl and keep for later, make sure to save the water too! Fry the onion, garlic, and ginger with the oil and butter until glazed.

Put the rice into the pan and fry for a few seconds before pouring the white wine into the pan. Be sure to burn off the alcohol. Warning-risotto rice burns easily!Fill up the pan with the spinach water.

Add water as required, boil some more water as needed, When the risotto rice is cooked, lower the heat and add the salmon and spinach, and while that simmers, roast the pine nuts in a little butter To finish, mix the parmesan into the risotto and add the pine nuts, flavour with salt and pepper. /Josh Langley 30

FEATURES

S

ince arriving at Surrey in September, I’ve noticed a constant reminder – and I’m guilty of doing it to other people, too – is this: first year doesn’t count.

A lot of people let that be an excuse, but I’m a ‘five minutes from now’ kind of person. There is nothing major that I have ever done and thought “this will not matter in the future”. If people were going to insist that this year didn’t matter, then I was going to make it matter.

“

“

I’m a ‘five minutes from now’ kind of person

feel a lot more confident in general, too.

The thing is that when you first put yourself into the working world, interviews and rejections can knock your confidence tremendously. I was just about ready to give up on looking for a job until after Uni when I got the email from Ali through my department.

Since starting at the company, though, I feel comfortable joking with my superiors (note: I’m generally a shy person) and I feel like I could talk extensively about what I’ve done in job interviews later on.

One of the best things is that the focus isn’t on what I write for the company, but that in a lot of respects what I’m getting out of it is the most important part.

WHY PROACTIVE ISN’T A BAD THING

Something I remember from the first day of the internship, and in fact from the original interview, was that people said I was proactive for a first-year student. That’s not how I see it. Before this year, I had no real work experience to speak of, and that terrified me. Considering I was hoping to go for a placement year, how was I going to convince an employer that I was worth their time if I had nothing for them to base their judgment on?

Ali’s Academy didn’t just help me allay those fears, though. When I heard about the wider company I would be writing for, CommuniGator, I was intimidated. I kept thinking “what does X mean?!” and worrying that when I used certain jargon in blogs, tweets, and emails I was probably using it wrong. After literally two or three days at the office, however, I was confident using most of the marketing and sales terminology I was expected to use. It’s shown me my capabilities in a field I thought was completely out of my reach. And honestly, though I know it probably sounds cliché, I

You just need to know your limitations. Considering we have a whole free year set aside for internships and work experience, doing something alongside your studies is hard. I was adamant that I would use my spare time to finish off anything I couldn’t get done in the hours I was given. Whilst I realised this was unnecessary – I was able to complete the work set on time – I also realised it would’ve been impossible to do overtime like that. One evening of missed study equates to a lifetime of catchup, so time management is key. You’ll find, though, that if you’re dedicated enough to both causes you’ll be alright. /Victoria Hill-Chalmers

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

38

HEALTH AND FITNESS

“So, what can we do to help avoid the anxiety”

Are you getting stressed out?

Understanding how to alleviate stress /Molly Miles

W

hether you are studying for exams, struggling with the budget or bombarded by daily aggravations, we all have stress. Stress is a natural response that releases hormones, increases breathing and heart rate, thus giving our brain more oxygen and helping us deal with short term events more effectively. However, if stress levels stay elevated for a longer period of time, it becomes chronic stress, which can have a negative effect on our health. Chronic stress can raise the risk of hypertension, stroke or heart attack.

It can also cause digestive problems including heartburn or acid reflux as well as raising the chance of type 2 diabetes as the body struggles to reabsorb the surge of glucose your liver produces under stress.

© Mohammad Sikandar Rana

People under chronic stress are also more susceptible to viral illnesses, diseases, and the common cold.

So, what can we do to help avoid the anxiety? Here are six habits that are worth adopting this coming semester: 1) Get More Sleep.

A lack of sleep can cause stress, but also, stress can prevent our sleep. To break this vicious circle, try taking a warm bath before you turn in. Avoid partaking in hard mental strain or looking at screens (laptops, phones, tv etc..) a few hours before sleeping and try to set regular bedtimes so your body can get used to a consistent routine. Try not to eat too much too late as this can affect your sleep patterns too.

2) Get Some Exercise.

The ‘fight or flight’ hormones produced by stress are rarely useful in tackling our modern day stressors, increasing the level of adrenaline and cortisol in our bodies. So, physical exercise can be used to metabolise these and reach a more relaxed state. If you feel

stressed, try taking a brisk walk or hit the gym. This will also help you sleep better.

3) Avoid too much Caffeine, Alcohol or Nicotine.

These are stimulants (and alcohol is also a depressant) which will increase stress levels. Try switching to water, squash or herbal teas - these will also help to hydrate you which comes with a wealth of health benefits.

4) Try Some Light Yoga or Meditation.

Deep breathing has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and can even temporarily lower blood pressure. Also, the ‘mental silence’ which goes along with meditation has a relaxing effect on the mind. If you can’t stop those interfering thoughts concentrate on breathing steadily, try counting to 6 on each inward and outward breath to regulate your breathing pattern.

5) Prioritise.

At this time of year, you may have a load of things that need doing. However, you must accept that you cannot do everything at once and create a to-do list, start with the tasks that need to be done immediately followed chronologically by the others. Add the dates in order to keep track of the time. Note which tasks that can be delegated in order to prevent yourself from feeling overwhelmed. Also, try to keep your personal space tidy, this decluttering reflects on your mind.

6) ‘Me Time.’

Sometimes we are so focused on our work that we do not have time to do any of the things we really enjoy. We as humans require social time, relaxation and exercise.

Reserve a couple of nights for spending some time on yourself or with friends, this will give you time to unwind and also prevent you from working excessively. Talking also distracts you from stressors (and can) release some of that built-up tension.

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Š Jaime Gonzalez Gutierrez

Š Jonathan Shaw

Š Jonathan Shaw

Š Jonathan Shaw

Š Jonathan Shaw

FASHION

Your “Mom’s” Jeans /Chloe Outen

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TopShop Pretty Blue Mom Jeans, £40

ASOS Mom Jeans, £32

Urban Outfitters BDG Mom Jeans, £55

Remember the days of your mum’s high waisted baggy jeans with a t-shirt tucked in… although the t-shirts were usually horrendous, the jeans were actually OK. So much so, this season, they have come bouncing back into fashion with designer such as Alexander Wang introducing them into his collection.

Expected to take S/S by storm, these mom jeans are a must have staple item in your wardrobe this season.

FASHION

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Slim Shady

FASHION

W

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/Rhiannon Hutchings

hether you’re jetting off to guaranteed sunshine this summer or staying put in England and hoping for some rays, new sunglasses are in order – and they’ve been spruced up like never before. The perfect accessory for hot weather, hangovers and even allergies, a perfect pair of sunnies will never let you down.

ASOS

These cat-eye sunglasses are utterly fabulous and have the ‘look more expensive than they actually are’ feel to them. £12

TOPSHOP

You can’t go wrong with a sleek pair of preppy, retro sunglasses. £16

FASHION

RIVER ISLAND

Play around with different coloured lenses. These nude sunnies will go with pretty much every outfit. £10

NEW LOOK

Aviator sunglasses are a classic and suit pretty much every face shape. £7.99 45

SCI-TECH

THE CHOICE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH FOR PANDAS /Harriet Hicks

E

veryone loves a panda. Super cute. Super fluffy.

Super doomed (and for once, this article isn’t about global warming). In 2014, there were only 1900 giant pandas left in the wild and 300 in captivity.

And even with specifically-set up breeding programs, successful panda births are few and far between.

Females only ovulate for 2-3 days each spring, and there is no guarantee that the males will be willing during this small window of opportunity.

Thus, for success in breeding programs, we have to artificially inseminate an egg and delay implantation into the mother (like human IVF). But why? Surely animals that spend their entire lives sleeping, eating, and pooping (up to 38kg of bamboo a day is a lot of fibre) would have the energy to get it on more than once a year.

cramping similar to irritable bowel syndrome. They also poop continuously (~40 times a day). Understandably, none of these are the most attractive features in a potential mate. However, although both are valid points, neither the low nutritional content of bamboo no its digestibility is likely to be the decisive factor influencing copulation.

FOOD?

Although classified as a carnivore (like, you know, other bears) pandas have evolved to have a vegetarian lifestyle. The most logical explanation for lack of regular coital interaction is that bamboo doesn’t provide enough energy. However, the sheer mass of bamboo ingested daily is sufficient for sustained anabolic activity (they’re fat enough to look cuddly). A less scientific suggestion is that a panda may lack enthusiasm to reproduce if it is constantly suffering from indigestion. Carnivores lack sufficient enzymes capable of degrading copious amounts of plant matter, causing them to experience 46

But why would they choose a food source condemning them to a life of loose bowels and low libido? This evolutionary conundrum may be a result of genetics.

Wild animals actively seek out food sources rich in umami (the basic taste associated with ‘savoury’ flavours like the after-taste of soy sauce). Recognition of umami requires activation of gustatory receptors by L-glutamate, an amino acid extremely abundant in highly nutritious, high-energy foods like meat. Activation of these receptors releases serotonin (a neurotransmitter associated with emotionality) which modulates the metabolism of dopamine (the main neurotransmitter affiliated with neural reward-circuitry). However, after sequencing the panda genome in 2009, it was found that a gene coding for one of these receptors (T1R1) had mutated over time and become non-functional. The inability to express a functional umami receptor affected their desire to eat meat (consumption no longer triggered the neurochemical equivalent of ‘happiness’). In 2011, a group of researchers from Shanghai found that an ingredient in

SCI-TECH

SO, IT IS NOT THAT PANDAS DO NOT WANT SEX, OR THAT THEIR PROCREATION IS BADLY TIMED

bamboo may help metabolise dopamine, suggesting the choice to eat bamboo may be a part of reward-seeking behaviour.

The irony here lies in the fact that sex-drive is the primary example of hedonic pleasure-seeking behaviour in most species. Sex releases the same neurotransmitters (as well as oxytocin which is why we like to cuddle after) and is assumedly more pleasurable than eating bamboo. (This also raises the question: ‘If human genes mutate enough, can we develop a genuine liking for celery? The answer is no. Genuinely, that stuff is nasty.)

One recent hypothesis (which is ground-breaking in terms of the neuroscience of human behaviour) suggests that gut bacteria can alter brain chemistry. This means the bacteria in your body may be able to influence your cognition and behaviour too 2. There is a large axis of bi-directional signalling between the brain, gut, and the microbiome. For example, gut bacteria have been shown to influence sexual preference in fruit flies. Although far-fetched, one possible explanation is that bacteria can produce molecules mimicking the action of endogenous sex pheromones, or induce the host to over-produce said pheromones. These hormonal changes can affect their overall smell, and change how attractive they are perceived to be by potential mates. Thus, it is possible that the panda’s gut bacteria could affect their libido, either by affecting the reward circuitry (driving the need to find more bamboo for dopamine release), or by literally making the host panda ‘smell’ worse hormonally.

SEX?

‘BAMBOO OVER SEX, REALLY?’ I hear you ask. Yes. Literally, yes. Crazy as it seems, this can also be explained. It could simply be down to population control, as a sudden population boom would put stress on food availability. So, no sex equals more food. Clever. (Finally, some maths applicable to everyday life). However, the cooler (and still scientifically plausible) theory blames the gut bacteria. Even after millions of years of solely eating bamboo (and developing a pseudo-thumb to aid in foraging for food) the panda’s digestive systems is still one of a meat-eater. Pandas lack the enzymes required to digest plant matter, and so are heavily dependent on symbiosis. It’s a good deal - the commensal gut microflora digest the cellulose and the pandas absorb the nutrients.

So, it is not that pandas do not want sex, or that their pro-creation is badly timed. It is genuinely because, for one reason or another, they would just rather eat.

There’s no shame in that. Except (maybe) when it literally jeopardises the future of your species. Without human intervention and conservation programs, pandas would probably die out very quickly. Maybe Darwinism is trying to tell us something?

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SCI-TECH

I GUESS “LATE CRETACEOUS PARK” DOESN'T SOUND COOL DOES IT?

THE TERRIBLE INACCURACY OF

JURASSIC PARK

/Connor Ibbetson, Science and Technology Editor

I

have fond memories of Jurassic Park, for me it’s one of the golden films of my childhood. I had the VHS tape, and it kick-started my slightly worrying love for dinosaurs. But upon watching it again recently, and doing some background research out of curiosity, and I hate being ‘that guy’, but I can’t hold back here.

It’s all lies. Well maybe not lies, albeit Hollywood magic, but good grief the ‘science’ in this film hardly merits the use of the word.

The entire premise of the film is that John Hammond, the philanthropist behind the Park, discovers mostly intact dinosaur DNA, preserved inside a mosquito that was caught in tree sap and became fossilised into amber.

Yeah, that’s not how that works at all. While it is true that specimens are preserved in amber, millions of years will

48

take its toll and the tissue inside will be all but completely degraded - so no DNA. As if that wasn’t enough, the film shows an amber mine in the Dominican Republic, but the fossils found throughout the Republic are from a completely different time period than the film claims, like millions of years off.

To top that off, the film claims geneticists used the DNA of a modern day frog to ‘fill the gaps’ in the degraded DNA. Even if I could forgive the sin of genetic material surviving millions of years inside some fossilized tree sap, using Frog DNA is just a terrible, terrible choice. Humans and Dinosaurs have genetically more in common than Dinosaurs and Frogs? I’m certain that the genetic monstrousity that comes from combining a frog and some scraps of Dinosaur DNA would certainly not look as good as the Dinosaurs we are presented with in the film.

SCI-TECH

Let’s talk about one of the main ‘villains’ of the film, the Velociraptors, the classic dinosaur ‘bad guy’: they chase the main protagonists around the entire island, opening doors and generally eating everything. You’ll remember them as tall, menacing and scaly right? Like a dinosaur should be. Sorry, again, nope. Velociraptors were about 2 feet tall, and had feathers. They suddenly don’t seem as intimidating or dangerous when you consider that is the same size as a turkey. There are some real life raptors the same size as the ones from Jurassic Park, such as Utahraptor, but that doesn’t sound as cool does it? (Also Utahraptor was only discovered after the film was released).

there. I could excuse all the above, I mean, making a film of this scale is no easy feet, maybe there wasn’t time to do all this detailed background research, and maybe it was needed to mesh the plot together and make it bit more interesting.

But the one thing that gets to me, that is completely inexcusable, is the fact that it is called “Jurassic Park” you know why that bugs me the most? The T-Rex, the triceratops, and the velociraptors are all LATE CRETACEOUS period Dinosaurs, one Wikipedia search will tell you that, but I guess “Late Cretaceous Park” doesn’t sound cool does it?

It does pain me to learn this awful truth, that my childhood love for dinosaurs was based on nothing but movie magic I believed as fact, but it doesn’t stop 49

FEATURES

STUDENT PC GAMING

SMART WATCHES

Motorola 360 v2 £229 Custom build your 360 with the ‘Moto Maker’ for a trully personalised piece of kit that won’t let you down. If sleek and elegant is your game, this is for you.

GTX 980TI Absolute top of the line in the GPU world right now. Wanna gaming at 4K? This is your man.

R9 390R Probably the best combination of power and cost, 8 whole gigs of VRAM will handle pretty much any game for solid 60fps at 1080p.

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Samsung Gear S2 £299 Full circle and aluminium bodied, the Gear S2 utilises swappable bands, a polished OS and a rotating bezel to really stand out from the crowd.

Apple Watch starting at £229 Sometimes it just needs to be Apple.

FEATURES

Best Buys DSLR’S

CANON 80D (Preorder only) £899 Canon’s newest edition, building on the success of the 70D, is looking extremely promising in previews.

CANON EOS 7D Mark II £331 As fast as pro DSLRs but priced for amateurs, the 7D Mark II ticks all the boxes

GET VR READY

Google Cardboard £20 Utilising your smartphone, some lenses and a cardboard headset, the VR experience at a fraction of the cost.

HTC Vive £689 Intiutive design and software paired with Steam, the Vive might require a high end gpu and pc, but might prove to be the winner in the VR war.

PERSONAL AUDIO

Jabra Move Wireless £56 One of the best wireless headphone sets around, big full sounds, and can’t be beat for this price.

Sennheiser HD 598 £135 Style, unbeaten comfort, superb high and mid ranges with lows to match, you cant go wrong here.

UrbanEars Humlan £33 Washable, a multitude of colours and an audio out port for instant music sharing, what else can you want?

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FEATURES

Part Two

2016

YEAR OF THE YOUTUBERS? Interview w. Jesse George

/Matthew Nolan, Entertainment Editor

In our last issue, internet sensations Michelle and Aline introduced us to the world of YouTube by reflecting on their journey to finding an identity and audience in the beauty, fashion and lifestyle community. Now, Jesse George joins us from a very different world, the world of literature. As he reflects on his journey to YouTube book-reviewing stardom, his channel, ‘jessethereader’, already stands at nearly 9 million views, and counting. If you’re the type of person who is always on the lookout for their next fiction fix, I have only one piece of advice for you: Don’t stop reading!

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You’ve recently surpassed the 150,000 subscriber mark on your YouTube channel, ‘jessethereader’. Congrats!

Why do you think so many people enjoy watching your reviews?

Thanks so much! It blows my mind the amount of people I’ve been able to connect with through making YouTube videos. I think the reason people enjoy watching my videos relates to why I make these videos. I started making these videos, because I didn’t have anyone to really talk to about books in my real life. I thought that making videos about the books I’d read would help me connect with people and that’s exactly what happened. I never expected it to turn into what it’s become today, but I’m happy with where this unexpected journey has taken me.

What was the most recent book you finished reading?

And what was your favourite and least favourite thing about it?

I just finished reading City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare. It’s the final book in The Mortal Instruments series and it’s taken me two years to finish this series.

For the most part it was a pretty satisfying finale, but on

© Jenna Clarek

FEATURES

“I’m what they call a mood reader” the other hand it definitely had some faults. My main issue with it was the overall pacing. It felt like it was taking forever to get to what it was leading up to. Other than that though it was an action packed book with heartfelt moments and brilliant humor.

What was the most unusual book you ever read?

Most likely Grasshopper Jungle by Andrew Smith. It’s the story of two boys who accidentally unleash an army of six-foot tall praying mantises. The deeper I got into the story, the more strange and outrageous it got. It’s not necessarily a book I’d recommend to everyone, but if you’re looking for something outright nuts, this is the book for you.

How would you describe your taste in books generally?

Are there particular genres and styles that you are drawn to more than others?

I feel like I’m definitely a person who will read anything as long as I’m in the mood for it. I’m what they call a mood reader, because I read based off how I’m feeling at that moment in time. I think my favorite genres would @JesseTheReader

be realistic fiction and urban fantasy. I’m a very open reader though and I basically enjoy reading anything I can get my hands on.

What writers would you love to meet in person someday?

Why? I’d love to meet Lemony Snicket, because he really sparked my love for reading when I was younger and I’d love to be able to thank him for doing that.

In 2016, the publishing industry is expecting further rapid change. With digital media on the rise, and print media on the decline, do you think it matters that the way we interact with books is changing?

I don’t think it matters the way we interact with books, because a story is a story no matter the format. I do think it’s important to keep in mind that the decline of print media is a problem for book sellers all around the world.

For example, if physical books aren’t selling well at an independent book store, it’ll be hard for the bookstore to remain in business and that’s where the problem lies.

@JesseTheReader

Youtube.com/JesseTheReader

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© Molly Miles

FEATURES

“the 'Nature Island' of the Caribbean.

Stepping out from the plane, the first thought which hit me was that of Jurassic Park”

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FEATURES

‘Tall is Her Body’ - Adventure awaits

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/Molly Miles ast summer I had the privilege, along with a group of others, to spend two weeks volunteering to aid some scientists in the Caribbean's little known Eden, Dominica. In the native Island Carib (or Kweyol) the island goes by the name of ‘Wai’tu Kubuli’, which translates to ‘Tall is Her Body’. This name justly describes the incredible mountainous terrain formed through geothermal-volcanic activity. First inhabited by the Kalinago tribes, Dominica was later colonised by the English, who built the mighty ‘Fort Shirley’ and whose battles fought on the coasts still leave ancient artifacts and buildings scattered amongst the island. The Kalinago chief has negotiated that a small part of the island still remains Kalinago territory, where one can walk through the traditional villages and soak in the culture.

After an eight hour flight to Barbados, we boarded a rickety sea plane which rattled for half an hour over various small Antillean islands to reach the dreamlike runway.

Stepping out from the plane, the first thought which hit me was that of Jurassic Park. With its land cloaked in rich rainforests, teeming with rare and endemic species. It’s rich and vibrant coral reefs and with the world’s second-largest hot spring, ‘Boiling Lake’, Dominica has rightfully earned the nickname of the Caribbean Nature Island. Among the scientists we worked with was Sara Carlson, the previous Director of Operation Wallacea USA, and Marine Site Manager in Dominica. This scientist agreed to answer some questions: What brought you to Dominica?

SC -I went to Dominica through the conservation research organization, Operation Wallacea. Operation Wallacea set up annual monitoring projects in the forests and reefs of Dominica that are run by various academics. University and School volunteers help the academics collect data that can be used to measure the biodiversity of the island and lever future funding for protection.

What are the three most significant scientific aspects of Dominica?

SC - Firstly, the Endemic species - Dominica is home to several endemic species that are only found on that one island. These include various species of reptiles (Anolis oculatus, Mabuya dominicana, Ameiva fuscata, Typhlops dominicanus, Alsophis sibonius, and others), insects, plants, and amphibians. Secondly, about 60% of the island is primary forest, which contains a high level of biodiversity. Thirdly, it is known as the 'Nature Island' of the Caribbean, and has a lot of features that make it unique.

It is the most mountainous island of the Lesser Antilles, and it has several active and extinct volcanoes.

What were your aims/ How are they progressing?

SC - The main aim was to put together a complete inventory of species (invertebrates, mammals, birds, herpetofauna, plants, etc.) so that the biodiversity of the island could be assessed and protected. This is a long-term project and takes several years of data collection, so we are still in the process of understanding the full diversity of Dominica. Specialists from different backgrounds come each year to help piece the puzzle together.

What is positive for the future of Dominica/ what is negative that merits concern?

SC - Dominica has relatively low tourism, and much of the tourism it attracts is for its lush natural beauty. Many people come to walk the Waitukubuli trail and to take in the nature, so there is a lot of incentive to protect it. However, increasing tourism also has its drawbacks, such as increased development and runoff. Another threat is deforestation (sometimes associated with tourism development, also with crops, and population growth).

Why should someone want to explore Dominica?

SC -Dominica has a variety of different habitats and ecosystems, both on land and in the water. Dominica is one of the only places in the world where sperm whales can be spotted year-round. Dominica is one of the poorest island in the Caribbean, and increased tourism could provide extra funding for protecting the natural abundance of the island.

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LITERATURE

Something wicked this way comes - Macbeth

The Enduring Bard /Megan Wilson, Creative Editor This year marks 400 years since the death of the Bard – William Shakespeare. His legacy is one of the greatest in literature, including 38 plays and 154 sonnets. Many famous quotes come from Shakespeare, and he is the bane or joy of students all over the world.

How has Shakespeare’s work endured so long? He was a celebrity of his day, yet the renown of his work has not faded. There must be something in his tales that captures even a modern audience – stories of love or tragedy. His plays have been performed numerous times over, and his sonnets are oft recited in the name of love.

Over the course of the year there will be numerous celebrations of Shakespeare in the UK, including events in Stratford-Upon-Avon, performances at the Globe and by the Royal Shakespeare Company, and BBC adaptions such as the second series of The Hollow Crown portraying the history plays.

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Adaptations Worth Seeing If you are unable to make it to the theatre, then there are plenty of film and television adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays. Though obviously I would recommend seeing them on stage. Here are some of the ones to watch: 1) Romeo and Juliet – the 1996 Baz Luhrmann version.

2) The Merchant of Venice – 2004, starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons.

3) The Hollow Crown – BBC versions of the second tetralogy (Richard II, Henry IV Part 1, Henry IV Part 2, Henry V) with the first tetralogy coming out this year.

4) The Tempest – 2010, in which Helen Mirren plays the gender swapped Prospero.

LITERATURE

Comic Conventions and Personal Projects /Ellie Egleton

During the Easter break I was able to attend C2E2, a comic convention in Chicago. This is the first time I was able to attend an American convention and it was certainly not a disappointment.

C2E2 is a three day event which takes place at McCormick Place; a massive convention centre complete with multiple panel rooms, an artist alley and stalls selling a wide range of geeky merchandise.

Once I arrived at O’Hare International Airport, I realised just how big an event C2E2 was. There was a huge advertisement for the convention at the airport and a free shuttle bus running from a wide range of hotels to McCormick Place throughout the day. The show attracted many attendees and cosplayers, many of whom I stayed in the same hotel as. This made using the lift a very interesting experience.

The main reason for my visit to the Windy City was to meet up with Kurt Wood (Franklin, Rumpuss, Willie Wisp, Aw Yeah Comics). I am currently working on an all-ages comic book project with Kurt and even though we often Skype, it was really cool to meet him in real life. The project Kurt and I are working on is called Power Punch Boot Camp and this is a brief synopsis our story; “It's hard for super powered kids to play in a normal way.

Swings break, slides smash and let's not even mention how many innocent children have been flung off seasaws. Thankfully, there is a very special place to go for these future heroes and villains. Power Punch Boot Camp combines the fun of eating pancakes with world domination in a way where nothing can go wrong. Well, at least that's the plan. Let's not hold our breath.”

In hope that our work will be published as a comic book/ graphic novel, Kurt and I have created powerpunchbootcamp.tumblr.com! Every Friday, two new comic book pages are uploaded. As well as this, character fact files have been posted and are ready to read. Our aim is to gather a following and one day see our work in print.

Please take the time to check out powerpunchbootcamp. tumblr.com. Any feedback is welcomed and please feel free to get in touch if you are working on your own comic book project. I always find it exciting discussing new ideas!

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THE ART OF WORDS

LITERATURE

/Megan Wilson, Creative Editor

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rafted in the depths of the imagination. Fuelled by the emotions and motivations that determine our existence. Words. They leap off the page when we read them. They teach us. They soothe us. They make us angry. They make us cry. What is it about the written word that is so enchanting?

They flow from the pen of the writer or from the tap of their fingers racing across the keyboard, to pour out the images bursting in their minds. Writing is a craft, to be sure, that can be learnt, developed and improved upon.

Any craft needs practice, and writing is no exception. Yet there is something so non-clinical about writing, about the way stories can paint themselves with words.

As any book lover will know, when you enter a bookshop or a library you are stepping into a cavern of wonders.

When you open a book you step inside – you step into Narnia. The carefully designed spines are all aligned, pointing towards you, wanting you to reach out and carefully slide it from its place and turn the smooth cover over in your hands. The smell may be of freshly printed pages or of paper that has been passed from hand to hand, imagination to imagination, over the years. Flicking the pages and seeing the words printed, waiting to be absorbed.

With our newly claimed book we retreat to a nook or cranny, or the summer air of the outdoors, and peel open the pages to reveal what is inside. The journey is commenced.

The printed words on the page of a book. So quickly devoured. Yet the artist has spent hours, weeks, and months, years poring over every single detail, every plot point, every character, and every word. Carefully crafting the story before your eyes until it is ready, until the story tells itself. Until it is ready to be passed on. The writer hands over their work, their creation, into the hands of others. Their energy and emotion caught in those words.

What if there were magic in the world? We read stories of wizards and dragons. Yet if we look carefully there is magic here. Our magic is the ink itself. There is magic in words. Words that have the power to provoke feeling.

They tug at our heartstrings or make our fingers curl around the pages with anticipation and suspense.

Words. They are alive. They spin, circle, and align to create patterns. Form pictures, images. More than that – grand paintings flowing around the walls of the imagination room. It is there. Inside the mind. Blank walls. Blank floor. Blank ceiling. All white. The words dance. They draw their stories, covering the whiteness in colour.

I sit with the book open on my lap. Sun shining through the window. And I fall in. I fall into the page, into the words. I fall down the rabbit hole and into the C of Chapter One.

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REVIEWS

Pippin, The Legend Returns, Vinyl, Watership Down, To the moon, Life is strange, zootopia, Etc. Art and Entertainment Reviews about movies, series, music and

ARTS

Musical Theatre Society’s performance of Pippin was fun, clever and certainly extraordinary.

By Georgia Pridden

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ack in March, Musical Theatre Society put on a performance of Pippin and it was one of the maddest and most entertaining shows I’ve seen in a while.

With music and lyrics from Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of Wicked and Godspell, the songs were fun and catchy. The variety of music allowed us to see a great range from the cast.

The show follows the story of Prince Pippin (Michael Boucher) on his quest to find happiness and lead an extraordinary life. Pippin joins the war to impress his father, Charlemagne (Andy Plom), and is soon thrown into the messy business of a revolution, he then finds love and finally gets an understanding of what true happiness is but the Leading Player (Ruggero Barlaba) and his actors have another plan for how this story should go.

The comedy in the show was fantastic. The cast seemed most in their element when it came to delivering humour.

Throughout the performance, the writing was slick, witty and got a great response from the audience. The Leading Player and Charlemagne had the best one liners and their casting was perfect as both actors excelled in their comedic roles.

The clever and, at times, disorientating aspect of the musical is how Pippin’s story is more of a show within a show. It is led by the Leading Player and his acting troupe, this allows for moments of breaking the fourth wall and humour that the cast handled incredibly well.

It was the complexity of the show and how well this was executed by the cast and team involved that was most impressive.

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The set design and choreography were effective and added to the overall performance. The show was performed with confidence and style and it was clear that everyone who had put the the show together had worked hard and taken care to make the show as funny and brilliant as it turned out to be.

All together the show was great entertainment, rich in comedy and talent. I look forward to seeing what MTsoc will be working on next.

it was genuinely funny

Pippin

ARTS

/Megan Wilson

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oing into the Musical Theatre Society’s performance

of Pippin, I didn’t know anything about the show and so had no idea what to expect. Pippin plays on the concepts of performance - the characters being actors in a show - and frequently breaks the fourth wall. It was certainly an odd musical, unusual and different to others I have seen, which was actually rather refreshing. Because of this oddness it was at times a little disorientating, but at the same time this meant that it was totally unpredictable. I never knew what was going to happen next.

The set was simple and MTSoc did well with the resources they had to show the different scene changes. The dancing and singing was of such quality that it was possible to forget that you were watching a student show. The cast showed great professionalism and there were some really great performances. Despite a microphone issue they weren’t put off and carried on with the show.

Comedy was a large aspect of Pippin, and I found myself laughing at a lot of points. The humour wasn’t forced or in your face, it was genuinely funny.

Overall it was an entertaining show and it was clear to see the time and effort MTSoc spent making Pippin as spectacular as it could be.

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Legend Returns

/Vasiliki Papadopoulou

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ost of us can name that one book or movie that has a special place in our hearts since we were young. Perhaps it related to what we were going through when we first read it, or it gave us some guidance, or it made us fall in love with the characters, or, in general, it became a friend. For me, the first time I picked up Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (all of my friends were raving about the fourth movie, which was coming out at that time) was IT. THE defining moment. Not only did the books encourage my imagination to run wild, but thanks to them I started reading more… and soon enough I realized how much I enjoyed writing as well. And that was ten years ago.

So yeah, pretty defining.

And then the news comes out.

The news that this defining book series, which, since the end of the last movie, has survived in the hearts of many through theme parks, through JK’s wizarding snippets on the Pottermore website, through Twitter discussions and through uni clubs (Surrey proudly being one of

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them) that insist on organizing Quidditch tournaments, is getting not one but TWO sequels.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Parts I & II, is a reality – and both plays are soon coming to Shaftesbury Avenue (nod to the seventh book, where Hermione reveals that she used to go to the theater there with her parents). The eighth installment will be performed at the Palace Theater, premiering on the 30th of July 2016 with performances running through to May 27, 2017 (at the moment).

Based on what I have deciphered from a generic description that has been going around, the story will take place nineteen years later and will be centering on Harry (now a responsible working husband and father) and his young son, Albus Severus. Harry has to grapple with not only adulthood, but also his traumatic past, which (as the description cryptically mentions) comes up again in some sort of way. In the meantime, his son is struggling to deal with his family legacy and, in the end, darkness still threatens the family, although this time it is much more unexpected.

ENTERTAINMENT

Thanks JK. Now we know.

Despite the fact that the plot of the upcoming story is shrouded in mystery, the new HP has started off with a bang. First of all, JKR is breaking away from the block-buster world of everlasting sagas (think every superhero revival ever) that often sacrifice quality for a box-office success. Remaining true to herself, she chooses the more under-the-radar medium of the stage to bring her characters back to life. Not only that, but she also very consciously approved the casting of actors of different race than the original movie actors. As one might predict, our favourite trio (Daniel, Emma and Rupert) will not be reprising their roles as Harry, Hermione and Ron; instead, the parts have now been given to Jamie Parker, Noma Dumezweni and Paul Thornley respectively.

Additionally, this does not feel like another special effects triumph. The visual challenges have always made the movies interesting and maybe overshadowed the story at times, but this time it feels more personal – more about the characters maturing and exploring a different territory than they used to. The ideal scene at the end of the last movie, with the picture-perfect families waving goodbye to their children, is shattered; it transforms from the perfect fairytale ending to the beginning of a new chapter in the real world. Harry is an adult, who needs to deal with the violence of his past and the consequences of his victory (something I wish will be explored), but he also has to deal with his role as a husband, father and employee of the Ministry of Magic. Theatre seems like a more mature medium, a better platform to explore more mature characters.

However, we all fell in love with the idea of Harry as this young kid, sleeping in the cupboard under the stairs and jumping around in the living room to catch a letter from the owls that were flying all over the place to his uncle’s dismay. The play will probably maintain the innocence and playfulness that the youth of the characters always gave the books through Albus Severus. What is it like being Harry Potter’s son? What is it like carrying the names of two very distinguished individuals? It seems like too much for a small kid – like he has been defined already.

Not only has his dad been a very famous wizard since he was young, but even the choice of his names brings in mind different characters from the books. All this precedent seems to be depriving Harry’s son from the clean slate Harry had when we first met him as a character.

Maybe I’m ranting… Or maybe JK has some of these issues in mind.

Finally, just in case you cannot secure a ticket to the two performances, the play’s script is also coming out this summer, on Harry’ birthday (July 31), bound and ready for you to delve in. And to comfort you further, November 2016 welcomes the much-anticipated spin-off focusing on Newt Scamander (played by the wonderful Eddie Redmayne) and his fantastic beasts, running wild around New York. It is definitely worth checking out, if only just to hear the word ‘No-Maj’ or to hear people with American accents pronouncing spells. I have to admit, I cannot wait!

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“why is it so formulaic?” “a

Frankenstein mixture of symbolism and file footage”

ENTERTAINMENT

Vinyl /Nick Duffy

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his review covers the first six episodes of Vinyl, a HBO produced American drama following Richie Finestra (Bobby Cannavale) and his failing record label American Century. It’s hard not to draw comparisons between Vinyl and AMC’s Mad Men that ran for seven seasons and was lavished with critical acclaim. Character arcs between the two are almost interchangeable; Vinyl’s Jamie Vine (Juno Temple) is an ambitious assistant looking to make it in a maledominated industry, something that Mad Man’s Peggy Olson (Elisabeth Moss) did not only better but first.

This leads one to question, in a show whose premise comes from the minds of Mick Jagger and Martin Scorsese, why is it so formulaic?

On paper, Vinyl sounds fascinating.

A drama depicting the sex, drugs and rock and roll present in the 1970s music industry, drawing on real anecdotes from those who lived through it. What we get however are musical vignettes featuring amateurish and underwhelming impersonators, specifically episode six’s terrible

David Bowie sequence. But regardless of what Finestra says at least a dozen times an episode, Vinyl is not really about ‘the music’, but rather Finestra moving around New York scoring coke, ruining his marriage and trying to keep his record label afloat.

The pilot was a non-chronological mess. The ninety-second opening credits sequence is painfully generic, a Frankenstein mixture of symbolism and file footage, which should be skipped at all costs. But the most significant issue is the archaic way Vinyl is released; one week, one episode. To actually care, and more importantly, remember what Finestra is doing, Vinyl needs to be watched over a couple of days, not a few months.

Yet, despite all its flaws, Vinyl is perfectly watchable. Highlights include any scene with the American Century supporting cast (J. C. MacKenzie, Max Casella, P. J. Byrne and Ray Romano) and the ‘Nasty Bits’ band subplot featuring Jagger’s son James Jagger. HBO have already commissioned a second season, and perhaps by then the show will have found its balance between the music and Finestra story.

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ENTERTAINMENT

MOVIES

Might have missed (1978):

Watership Down

“When they catch you, they will kill you. But first, they must catch you.”

Length: 1 hour 41 min

This animated classic, based off of the novel of the same name, follows the rabbit Hazel (John Hurt) and his warren of rabbit burrows. Hazel’s brother, Fivel, foresees that a terrible omen will soon destroy their warren, so Hazel and some persuaded few leave in search of a safe haven. We follow them along this search, which is accompanied by some distinctive characters and surprisingly jarring imagery.

Some will be familiar with this film from their childhood, where their parents understandably but mistakenly thought that this would be a children’s film. With a ‘suitable for all’ U-rating, I can hardly blame them. The pleasant setting of a peaceful rabbit warren is quickly tainted with a bloodied vision, rabbit snares, drowning in dirt, and what I can only describe as World War Rabbit.

Suitable for all! …Right?

Aside from the graphic conflicts, there is a certain aesthetic in the animation that is simultaneously intriguing and uncomforting – perhaps down to its realistic depiction of nature trying to survive in a world of humans.

To any fans of the Japanese Studio Ghibli animations, the animating style used here is very similar. Whilst the animation may seem clunky to modern viewers, the water-coloured vistas are a pleasure to view, especially with a stirring orchestral score and the original song “Bright Eyes” to guide the narrative. The voice acting is ideal, although there is some dialogue that could have been delivered with more enthusiasm – then again, this is not an entirely joyous story either. The story itself is a grim one, again delivered through truly shocking imagery.

Regardless, if you like fluffy animals and gorgeous environments, go see this film, and if you like striking imagery and bloody violence, also go see this film.

// Jonathan Feasey

Might have missed (2011):

To the Moon

“I never told anyone, but… I’ve always thought they were lighthouses.”

Average Length: 3 - 5 Hours

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f you could be granted one final wish on your deathbed, what would it be? ‘To the Moon’ is a story-driven game following Eva Rosalene and Neil Watts of the Sigmund Corporation – a company that have developed a technology to grant such wishes through the creation of artificial memories. Their next client, the elderly man Johnny, desires to go to the moon but cannot remember why. And so we journey with Eva and Neil as they traverse backwards through Johnny’s memories, piecing together his entire life in an attempt to fulfil his wish.

If you love great stories in video games, this is arguably one of the best ones out there (perhaps so great that it influenced the later narrative masterpiece ‘Bio-

Shock Infinite’). From its hilariously witty dialogue to its heart-warming tug at your emotions, I guarantee you won’t leave dry-eyed. The reversed form of storytelling – experiencing Johnny’s life from old age to childhood – could not have been perfected any further; the narrative is cleverly unravelled as we witness the aftermath of an event before the event itself, locking the player in a constant state of curiosity as we progress further and further backwards, connecting everything that is shown to us through the mementos of Johnny’s past.

The only aspect of gameplay (besides point-and-click exploration) is a small puzzle element chained to each memento, making me consider this game to be closer to a visual novel than an interactive game, but regardless, the story and music alone is worth its criminally cheap price.

This is a game built out of an RPG maker, so don’t go in expecting the product of a multi-million dollar budget, but instead the touching result of a passionate group of developers. If you can’t experience it now, at least put it on your wish list and be ready to help someone in finding paradise. // Jonathan Feasey

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ENTERTAINMENT

© Jonathan Sirit

MUSIC

ALBUM

SONG

Tell me It’s Real

The Black Side

January saw the release of Tell Me It’s Real, the debut album from Yorkshire based folk duo Seafret. The album is 13 tracks (16 on the deluxe edition) of often ocean themed music, with the album’s saving grace being that these bland inoffensive ballads run for the most part in three minutes or less. Aside from the critical and commercial success that Seafret have somehow achieved, the duo will no doubt thrive licensing their music to similarly bland and inoffensive independent romantic comedies for years to come.

This month’s Stag Song of the Month is The Black Side by German four piece Gloom Sleeper. At just over three minutes it packs enough tonal shifts and distinctive styles to remain interesting, and even the simple, uninspired lyrics (‘there are no dreams left for me’) fail to detract from the track that would thrive with sufficient radio play.

You can listen to Tell Me It’s Real here: http://www.seafret.com/

You can listen to The Black Side here https://soundcloud.com/cvltnation/ gloom-sleeper-a-void-01-the

By Nick Duffy

By Nick Duffy

ARTIST Ben Noke is a talented singer/songwriter who self-produced and released his debut EP “Raincloud” in September 2015. His sweeping melodies and piano-driven sound create a unique, fresh sound. He’s a born entertainer and performer.

You can find his music on iTunes and Spotify.

For upcoming gigs go to: www.bennoke.com

© Ben Noke

Ben Noke

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ENTERTAINMENT

Life Is Strange /Jonathan Feasey

Objective Overview Released episodically throughout 2015, this five-part game follows Maxine Caulfield, a photography student at the fictional town of Arcadia Bay, as she receives a vision that the town will soon be obliterated by a monstrous tornado.

Following this vision, she makes the miraculous discovery that she can rewind time. Alongside a plethora of colourful characters and ‘missing person’ posters, we follow Max as she tries using her newfound powers to stop the storm from happening and discovers the mysteries surrounding Arcadia Bay. In short, the story and dialogue is fantastic.

Being set in 2013, the conversations between characters reflects that with all the modern tropes of the past few years. The majority of the characters are memorable and quirky (with all the stereotypical students you would expect), although a few characters at first seem to be going somewhere and ultimately end up on

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the wayside. The story is surprisingly dark and brutally realistic, exploring current themes and issues plaguing our society today.

The gameplay is dialogue-oriented – your choices affect the outcome of the narrative – so if you’ve played any game by Telltale (The Walking Dead, The Wolf Among Us), the gameplay is nearly identical to that. With that said, the new mechanic of time travel is entertainingly engaging, although understandably not as nonlinear as one would hope, but it is nonetheless intriguing to see all the possible outcomes of a conversation.

Definitely, give this a whirl if you are a fan of story-driven video games, particularly if you enjoyed the games from Telltale.

ENTERTAINMENT

“Always take the shot.

My number one rule of photography.”

Subjective Spoilers Spoilers ahead!

Having played and loved Telltale’s The Walking Dead, this game was exceptional in giving me the same captivating experience. The episodic release format, which originally released one episode every two months during 2015, truly made you speculate where the story was going. And this game, in particular, is one where speculation pays off substantially – there is a twist, and all I will say is that if you piece it together before it is revealed, it is immensely satisfying.

Touching more on the story, some choices may seem less impactful since you can simply rewind time and choose another option, but there will be some suspenseful instances where your powers fail and you only have one chance to get it right (or wrong, if you so desire).

I will say, though, that most of the choices you make don’t affect the main direction of the story at all, but instead only side narratives, which is disappointing but understandable. And to restate again, the story can be unnervingly dark and twisted at times, especially from its themes – in particular, bullying and drug abuse. It also plays into aspects of photography, so any photography students out there might get an extra kick out of it.

Most characters are superbly written, no matter what bizarre slang the writers used – ‘hella’ and the good old ‘shaka brah’ to name a couple – which I found charmingly quirky but comically cringe-worthy at times. Whilst there are several characters that are relatable, it is Max and her best friend Chloe that take the spotlight here.

The development and relationship between the two are a huge part of the game, particularly when Max manages to alter past events that happened many years ago, resulting in alternate realities which are often tragic. There

are a couple of characters which at first seem as though they will be important, but are ultimately underplayed; the caretaker Samuel, the drone-enthusiast Brooke, and the portrait-sketcher Daniel though that’s not to say that the few times these characters do appear that they aren’t entertaining. I’ll definitely applaud the voice actors, all of which did an exceptional job in breathing life into these characters, often with several characters voiced by a single actor.

The gameplay is tailored entirely off of player choice, with several different possible outcomes throughout the entire game. There are a couple of moments that depart from this, but for the majority you will be talking with characters, scouring the area and solving occasional puzzles. There are a number of side opportunities to find and take very specific photos, an extra little bonus for the completionists out there, adding more replay value (as if the multiple possible outcomes didn’t already fulfil that).

The time travel mechanic is smoothly implemented and addicting – a perfect excuse to venture out and experience all the possible outcomes. And of course, you can compare your choices against every other player through a statistics page at the end of each episode.

I should also quickly note the graphic style, which favours an artistic palette over realism. Personally, I find it delightful – there are some vistas that are worthy to be a desktop background. The acoustic music is surprisingly soothing, especially given the dark themes and all-round quirky narrative.

So if you’re a fan of time travel, player choice, and charming characters, give it a shot. And with a second season on the way? Hella yes!

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ENTERTAINMENT

Zootropolis “Look inside yourself and recognize that change starts with yo”

/Jonathan Feasey

Objective Overview Following on from his first feature film ‘Wreck-ItRalph’, Rich Moore returns with Bryan Howard to bring us this year’s first Disney animation – ‘Zootopia’ (or ‘Zootropolis’ for European countries). The plot centres on Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), an anthropomorphised rabbit determined to become Zootopia’s first rabbit police officer and to help keep the city safe. After achieving her dream, she finds herself in the pursuit of a missing person case alongside a mischievous fox, Nick (Jason Bateman), and together the duo set out to solve this mystery, soon discovering that a missing person is the least of their troubles.

The film shines in almost every aspect; the animation is gorgeous and colourful, particularly the city

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Zootopia itself which has four distinct biomes each with their own palette. The characters are loveable and relatable, matched by the energetic voice acting that seamlessly brings them to life. The story, although predictable with some thought, is enjoyable and touching, solidified by some excellent humour scattered about its premise (if you haven’t seen any trailers yet, try to avoid them as they spoil some good ones!). While a little rushed towards the end, this animation is an excellent next step after ‘Frozen’ and ‘Big Hero 6’.

If you are like me and will never grow out of your inner Disney, hop over to the ODEON or grab the DVD and experience it for yourself.

ENTERTAINMENT

Subjective Spoilers Spoilers ahead! – go see the film before reading on, or just go ahead and read if you need to pass the time!

As ‘Wreck-It-Ralph’ was one of my favourite Disney films of all time, I am glad to say that Rich Moore has not disappointed with ‘Zootopia’ – it was simply a joy to watch.

Computer animation is entering its prime time, and this film is no exception.

The locations are incredibly varied; one moment you are at a farm, then next, a grand city. And then a rainforest, followed by a blistering tundra – the different locations go on and on, each stylized with precision. Although, the spectacular vistas of Zootopia as a whole are numbered, but for the few that exist they are a feast for the eyes.

The animation on the characters themselves is given great detail to truly individualise each one from the other; from the periodic twitch of a rabbit’s nose, to the hilariously paced sloths, each detail aids to breathe a refreshingly unique life into each character. And of course, these characters are wholly likeable and relatable, particularly the excellent chemistry between the two leads, Judy and Nick, with whom you will likely sympathize from a backstory that, while overused, never fails to create attachment.

The story is engaging, but as I mentioned, if you take a few moments to think about where it might be going, you will almost certainly guess correctly. Of course, I don’t expect a sophisticated psychological thriller, but a few more clever connections are always welcome. The film delivers heavily on the moral of prejudice, which is tragically as relevant as ever, but it is conveyed imaginatively enough that you won’t be distracted from enjoying the film.

The humour is very strong, and many of them take place as 4th wall references. Some are clever (animal variations on past – and future! – Disney films) but others hinge closer towards the cringe (I spotted two links to the unofficial childhood anthem ‘Let it Go’). Nonetheless, the majority of the humour is spot on and energetically paced.

My one big criticism, for as much as I enjoyed it, is the ending and its villain. Where the villain itself is perfectly fine (although, again, predictable if you give it some thought), it is the fact that the villain is revealed and then the film ends under ten minutes later. It feels as though the final act is missing. Was it rushed? How though, for a film nearly two hours long? With the way it is, the ending is not entirely satisfying – it builds to a climax and concludes without reaching its peak. Obviously, this is how I personally felt, you will most likely feel differently!

There is also the oh-so-original disagreement between the main protagonists – a story cliché I have come to haphazardly call the ‘Charactus Disagreemus’ – which is a staple of film drama that needs to retire.

And a quick stab at whichever marketer thought it would be a wise idea to change the name from ‘Zootopia’ to ‘Zootropolis’ for European audiences – I would have thought ‘Zootopia’ was a far more accessible title for younger audiences than ‘Zootropolis’, and the needless change results in some noticeable disconnects between what the characters are saying and what they are mouthing. An unnecessary decision, but hey, what’s done is done.

On the whole, this is one of my new favourite Disney films, regardless of the ending. Let’s hope their other upcoming animation, ‘Moana’, is just as good.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Night Manager /Josh Langley

From the get-go BBC1’s recent Sunday night drama - a joint BBC produced mini-series with the US cable company AMS - of John Le Carré, ‘The Night Manager’ set the heart pounding.

Beginning with protagonist Jonathan Pine pushing his way through a crowd of protesting Egyptians - during the height of the 2011 Revolution to overthrow long-serving dictator Hosni Mubarak - immediately attracts our generation’s attention, bringing back as it does mental images of Middle Eastern turmoil.

The series’ central protagonist is Jonathan Pine, played with effortless upper-class charm by old Etonian Tom Hiddleston (renowned for his role as Loki in The Avengers films).

to photocopy private documents on behalf of Sophie Alekan, played by French-Moroccan actress Aure Atika, who is the mistress of violent playboy Freddy Hamid (David Avery, ‘Doctor Who’, ‘The Inbetweeners Movie’). As it turns out these documents are linked to an arms deal with Richard Roper (Hugh Lawrie, ‘House’), the villain of the piece, portrayed with spine-tingling ruthlessness beneath the polite veneer of an English gentleman, which as all good spy movies have taught us is the perfect combination to represent evil. Add to this Burr (Olivia Coleman, ‘Broadchurch’, ‘The Iron Lady’) - a female spy obsessed with nailing Roper for his crimes - and you have the perfect ingredients for a Sunday night thriller.

Well worth a watch the series took place over 6 episodes between Sunday the 21st February and Sunday 27th March.

Returning to his hotel for his nightly duty, Pine immediately sets about arranging the repatriation of western tourists in the face of the impending revolution. During the ensuing chaos he receives a mysterious request

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March Issue 86_2016

THE STAG STUDENT MAGAZINE UNIVERSITY OF SURREY