Issue 111

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Issue 111

Das Krapital

Why Communism is so fundamentally flawed Opinion

The Arts Tower

p. 17

The IC’s Refurb Review

EGX Roundup

Lifestyle

Games

How good is an overnight stay in the library?

p. 19

Britains biggest gaming convention

p. 29

Kate Marron

University of Sheffield Top 100 in Arts and Humanities worldwide Gethin Morgan

T

he University of Sheffield is one of the top 100 universities for arts and humanities in the world.

It has been ranked 67th worldwide and 12th in the UK by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2018.

The rankings include 400 institutions across the globe and take into consideration the subjects of arts, performing arts, languages, history, philosophy, theology, architecture and archaeology.

Vice-President for Arts and Humanities Professor Susan Fitzmaurice, said: “We are

delighted that the University of Sheffield has been recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for the arts and humanities.

This international ranking indicates that the University leads pioneering research and innovative teaching with a strong international outlook in arts and humanities subjects.”

It comes as no surprise after earlier this year archaeologists from the university discovered a huge Viking camp. The camp in Lincolnshire would have housed thousands of Vikings and was a base for repairing ships, melting down loot and trading. It would have been an important defensive and strategic position in the

winter months.

Meanwhile...

Continued on page 3

Wednesday 4 October 2017

2

Forge Press Editorial Team Editor editor@forgetoday.com Luke Baldwin Managing Editor Freyja Gilliard Deputy Editors editor@forgetoday.com Nick Burke Michael Chilton Web Coordinator VACANT Head of News Ben Warner News press.news@forgetoday.com David Anderson Courtney Carr Gethin Morgan Comment press.comment@forgetoday.com James Pendlington Josie Le Vay Features press.features@forgetoday.com Katharine Swindells Megan-Lily McVey Elsa Vulliamy Coffee Break press.coffeebreak@forgetoday.com VACANT

Editorial

Y

our course is well under way, you’ve finally recovered from Freshers’ Flu and hopefully your new life in Sheffield is in full swing.

With the non-stop partying and excitement of Freshers’ Week now behind you, and the stress filled nights of exams still a long long way away, now is the perfect time to figure out how you plan to spend your time in Sheffield. No doubt many of you will have attended various society pub crawls or intro meetings. Some of these will have been a bit of a disappointment, not at all to your liking, but others will have instantly clicked with you.

Who knows, maybe the random people you met on those shitty socials will turn out to be some of your closest friends’.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank anyone who has attended any of our meetings so far. To see so many new faces, with so many

questions, really was a treat. Its nice to know that after we graduate, there will be others who are just as passionate about student media around to succeed us. For all I know, one of the Freshers I spoke to about getting involved could end up writing an Editorial just like this one next year. For those you who couldn’t make our meetings but still want to get involved, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me either over email or by messaging the Forge Press Facebook page.

Even more exciting is that we are starting to hear all the incredible and innovative ideas that new students are bringing to us. I genuinely think that this upcoming year will be one of the best for Forge in terms of quality of content.

And, of course, this issue is no exception. In News, we keep you up to date on all the latest information from around the Sheffield and the Students’ Union, most notably the

upcoming SU Council Elections which you can read about on page 4. For anyone considering running for Council I highly recommend it. I was Councillor for Mechanical Engineering for a year and it really was one of the best things that I’ve done at Uni. No experience is needed, everyone is lovely and it’s a great way to really impact how your Students’ Union is run.

Over to Opinion where it’s the usual affair of Religion, Communism and Thatcher. My personal favourite though has to be “Tinder gets political” on page 19, where our wonderful Opinion Editors take to the popular dating app to get young singletons opinions on a £10 minimum wage.

As you can imagine, the results are pretty hilarious.

And finally to Sport where we have a match report from the last weekend’s incredible Steel City Derby. The first match between

Forge Press

Sheffield United and Wednesday in five and half years and it certainly delivered. Give it a read to find out why!

Other than that, hope you’re all feeling settled and made some new mates. And make sure you go to your lectures, I know it’s tempting to skip and stay in bed but you’ll regret it come Reading Week when you’ve got 40 hours of content to catch up on.

Pic of the Press

Lifestyle press.lifestyle@forgetoday.com Harry Gold Ellie Conlon Head of Sport Adam May Sport press.sport@forgetoday.com Josh Taylor Tim Adams Music press.music@forgetoday.com Ben Kempton Florence Mooney Games press.games@forgetoday.com Chloe Dervey Arts press.arts@forgetoday.com Laura Mulvey Florrie Andrew Screen press.screen@forgetoday.com David Craig Joseph Mackay Copy Editors Connie Coombs Florence Brun Brenna Cooper Leah Fox Harriet Evans Amy King Charlotte Knowles-Cutler Photography Kate Marron

O

pposite Jessop West is the old henderson’s factory.

For those who don’t know Henderson’s is iconic in Sheffield and is available in almost every restaurant and supermarket. This condiment (not to be confused with Worcestershire sauce) is only available in Sheffield and parts of South Yorkshire. There are currently plans to change the building into a Henderson’s Pub for the University, which means that although it will be getting a much needed refurbishment, it won’t look like this for too much longer.

Until the pub opens, I recommend you give some Henderson’s a try.

See your photo here Contact press.photography@ forgetoday.com with submissions

Get Involved

Want to join the team? Fancy yourself a decent writer or presenter?

Then why not get involved with Forge Media! No prior experience is needed and anyone can apply. We also have vacancies for the following positions: -Coffee Break Editor - Games Editor - Treasurer - Online News Editor Join the Facebook group “Forge Media Contributors 17/18”for all the lastest articles or to pitch your own ideas. If you are interested in one of the editorial positions, come along to our EGM on Thursday 5th of October in Gallery Room 4 in the Students’ Union at 7pm. All you need to bring is a 30 second speech on why you think you’d be good at the role.

Contact luke.baldwin@forgetoday.com with any questions.

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Pubs closed following Sheffield derby David Anderson Police made 11 arrests in Sheffield on the day of the first match between Sheffield Wednesday and United in over five years.

An operation by South Yorkshire Police to ensure the safety of fans during derby day involved the drafting in of hundreds of officers from areas such as Northumbria and Durham.

Dispersal orders were also issued to 35 fans, who were banned from certain areas and threatened with arrest if they returned.

Several pubs were also closed in the Leopold Street area of the city centre at around 4:30PM, including the Bessemer and All Bar One following a fight between fans.

They reopened later in the day.

Sheffield United emerged victorious in the first derby

3 since 2012 with a 4-2 win at Hillsborough. Former Wednesday striker Leon Clarke scored twice

11

arrests made

on his return to The Owls.

The 10k charity run taking place in the city on the same day increased the strain on the police, who needed to bring in more support.

“I would like to thank all of the officers for their hard work and dedication as they made the whole operation possible,” said Chief Superintendent Shaun Morley.

“I hope the match was enjoyed by everyone and that our high visibility presence provided reassurance.”

“Our main priority remains keeping the people of South Yorkshire safe and we will always work to achieve this.”

The next derby is in midJanuary.

Carlos Carvalhal, Wednesday boss

Sheffield scientists £65m US partnership

Writing off debt cheaper than claimed

Courtney Carr

Writing off university student’s debt could cost the Government only £10 billion, says the Institute for Fiscal Studies, a stark contrast to the £100 billion estimate previously circulated.

The IFS said: “Suggestions that debt would rise by £100 billion are wrong.”

In 2012 tuition fees rose to £9,000 per year for UK undergraduates.

However, if tuition fee debt pre-2012 was written off only £10 billion would be added to Government debt.

The debt for University undergraduates from England could be scrapped, adding £20 billion. Waiting until the end 2022 would increase this to £60 billion.

Student debt that is not paid off after 30 years is written off.

Universities Minister Jo Johnson quoted the £100 billion figure to combat suggestions that Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn could scrap tuition fees and manage existing debts.

The IFS say that the £100billion figure is the total sum for all student loans, including maintenance, of those who began

(cont. from front page)

...the world’s first air-cleansing poem, created in 2014 by Professor of Poetry Simon Armitage in collaboration with the science departments, was this year taken down having successfully removed over two tons of nitrogen oxide from the environment. The poem, In Praise of Air, purified its surroundings through catalytic oxidation, and the University hopes it will be replicated on billboards in towns and cities across the world.

At 67th, the University is ranked higher than the universities

of Leeds, Birmingham and Glasgow. While further afield, the universities of Washington, Stockholm and Zurich cannot match Sheffield.

Former arts and humanities

students at the University include BBC presenter Dan Walker and award winning playwright and screenwriter Lucy Prebble.

Professor Sir Keith Burnett, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: “I am delighted that our exceptional academics in the arts and humanities have been recognised in this way as the truly worldleading scholars and teachers they are.”

He added: “It is sometimes assumed that Sheffield, which has a strong tradition of excellence in engineering, medicine and science is exclusively focused on these subjects. This is categorically not the case and I am truly proud that their global reputation and profile is once again confirmed in these rankings.”

to pay fees in 1998 before the rise to £9,000 in 2012 and students outside England.

They believe the focus should

£10bn

Education Sec.,

Simon Davis/

be on debt accumulated since the £9,000 rise.

The Government could pay for

the additional debt by increasing the top rate of income tax, the IFS have said. Although they did point out that high earners with no student debt would lose out.

Sheffield 10k race takes place in the city Gethin Morgan Thousands of people took part in the Sheffield 10k during the event’s second annual race in the Steel City on Sunday 24 September.

The race is part of the Asda Foundation 10k series in memory of Jane Tomlinson CBE, who raised £1.85 million for charity by running multiple marathons and triathlons, despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

She passed away aged 43 in 2007, and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal was launched to maintain her legacy, raising £10 million since..

The race started at 9.30am and saw over 3800 runners take to the streets.

Lynne Preston, Event Manager at Run For All, said: “We are enormously grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of today’s run, especially all the volunteers who worked so hard to ensure the runners had a good day.”

Sheffield student George Ridgeway, 20, said: “The 10k was a great event, helped by good weather and a welcoming atmosphere.”

Gethin Morgan

Justine Greening DFID

estimated

student debt

Ilya Khokhlov

Completing the race in 43m20s, he added: “The event itself was relaxing in a sense, sometimes a big event like that can be daunting, but the collectiveness of the 10k focuses your thoughts on enjoying the atmosphere created by everyone.”

Scientists at the University of Sheffield are set to play a key role in a £65 million collaborative project between the UK and the US, in a study which intends to gain a better understanding of how the universe works.

It got the go ahead after the UK Universities Science Minister struck a deal on 20 September 2017 with the US Energy Department to invest into the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE).

DUNE, based in South Dakota, will look into neutrinos, which are mysterious particles that could explain why matter exists.

The detector, which will be crucial for the study, will be developed by physicists at the University of Sheffield.

Professor Neil Spooner, head of the University Particle Physics Group, said: “Neutrinos are the new wild frontier in physics. Their properties are not explained by our current understanding of physics. The DUNE project, which will comprise eventually of a huge 40,000 tonne detector of liquid argon a mile underground, is set to tackle this issue head-on but also conduct a new form of astrophysics by detecting neutrinos from exploding supernovae.”

He added: “This could be a boost to industries here in Sheffield and the University.”

Neutrinos are the new wild frontier in physics

4

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Forge Press

Government welfare policy not helping Gethin Morgan

Sheffield Town Hall, home of the City Council

Wikimedia Commons

SU Council nominations have opened Ben Warner

N

ominations for Students’ Union Council have opened, kicking off the election process to form this year’s Council.

Council consists of Departmental and Representative Councillors, plus an Environmental and Ethical Councillor. They vote on Students’ Union policy, which is then enacted by the relevant officers.

Nominations are open until 6 October, with candidates being announced a week later. Voting then takes place from 16-19 October. Winners are announced on the evening of the 19th.

Potential candidates can nominate themselves or be recommended by a friend who

believes they would be good for the role.

Activities Officer Tom Brindley was an SU Councillor last year and also chaired the Council, leading their decision making process.

“In my fourth year at University I decided to run for the MBB Councillor position as I wanted the opportunity to represent my department, and the students’ within it, to make sure that the correct decisions were being made to how the Union was ran,” Tom said. “[Your] goals can be as narrow or as wide as you wish them to be. The Council is also ultimately responsible for societies and sports too!”

“You also have the opportunity to run for Vice-Chair and Chair of the

E T A CRE UNITIES PPORT

O

E T A DEBEAS

SU Council, two positions that are highly contested, and which I was

You really do feel like you’re making a difference to students’ lives

may be many policies to look over and debates to be had. But overall, the process is an enjoyable one and you really do feel like you’re making a difference to students’ lives.”

Anyone who wants to nominate themselves can do so by submitting a manifesto of goals for the year and a picture of themselves. They can nominate themselves on the SU website.

lucky enough to hold.”

“Sometimes SU Council can be a daunting and tiring process. There

SU Council Elections

ID

D A E LTUDENTS S

Nominations open until 5pm Friday 6th October

sheffieldsu.com/elections

Work to tackle homelessness is being held back by the Government’s welfare policy, according to research by the University of Sheffield.

The University worked alongside the Chartered Institute for Housing to survey all local authorities and housing associations in the UK. Of the 106 local authorities and 50 housing associations which replied, 84% and 70% respectively said they believe welfare policy set by the Government, such as the lower benefit cap, is having a negative impact on attempts to reduce homelessness.

Terrie Alafat, the Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Housing, said: “This research shows that welfare policy is seriously undermining the work that councils and housing associations can do to reduce homelessness.”

She added: “We know from experience that tackling homelessness is possible but it requires a commitment from all Government departments. If the Government is serious about tackling our homelessness crisis it must urgently consider how it can create a policy framework which supports, and not undermines, what councils and housing associations can achieve together to tackle this.”

Forge have contacted the Department of Work and Pensions for a response but at the time of printing have not received a response.

Sheffield student given free drinks Ben Warner

Two Sheffield students were flooded

with free drinks after going viral on Twitter.

Nick Matthewman and Rory McArthur, both second years, were drinkin g in the Bankers Draft Wetherspoons. Rory then tweeted out asking his followers to send Nick drinks as it was his birthday.

However, it didn’t really go to plan.

Over the course of the afternoon, they were sent non-alcoholic Becks Blue, several glasses of milk, fruit shoots, peas accompanied by BBQ sauce, curry sauce and blue cheese, and many more less than appetising gifts.

Nick said: “It was really funny but so unexpected. We were just having a laugh throughout.”

Drinks are still being sent to their table, and they’re keen to return soon.

Get home safely The Women's Minibus takes you from outside the Students' Union building, Western Bank Library or Information Commons, directly to your door.

For full timetable please visit sheffieldsu.com/womensminibus

• Call City Taxis on 0114 239 3939 and quote ‘Safe Taxi Scheme’ • When the taxi arrives, give your UCard to the driver instead of cash • Visit the SU Welcome Desk the following day to pay your fare, and collect your UCard.* *most UCards will be returned within 24 hours

Running from Glossop Rd (opposite Bar One) every Sunday at 02:35, 03:35 & 04:10am

Welfare Officer

Women’s Officer

6

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Forge Press

Forge TV to host NaSTA conference Ben Warner

Tom Mason, Head of Training for Forge TV, at Varsity ice hockey earlier this year

Dan West

Uni of Sheffield partner with SYP to keep new students safe

Ben Warner

T

he University have launched Crime Reduction and Safety Fortnight in partnership with the South Yorkshire Police and the Students’ Union to keep students safe.

The fortnight started on 25 September, and aims to make sure students aren’t the victims of crime during the opening weeks of the new academic year.

Students are known to bring lots of expensive gadgets to university with them, including smartphones, laptops, TVs and games consoles, making known student areas a target for thieves.

Police are keen to make sure newly-arrived students in the city aren’t the victims of crime, so put in the effort especially early on in

the year while freshers are arriving.

As well as partnering with the University, South Yorkshire Police have also released “Crime Reduction Officer Dene Tinker’s Top Ten Security Tips for students” including locking all doors, taking valuables home with you, and installing timer switches on lights to deter potential intruders.

Police officers will be based in the Diamond alongside University staff throughout the fortnight, giving students tips on how they can stay safe in Sheffield.

Richard Yates, Head of Security Services at the University of Sheffield, said: “Sheffield is regularly seen as one of the safest cities in the UK but unfortunately there are some people who see students as an easy target for crime,

particularly at the start of the new academic year.

“The University has been working with our Students’ Union and South Yorkshire Police for the past 19 years to help keep students safe and reduce crime against the University’s community.

“This year we are on-hand providing advice on how students can keep their belongings and accommodation safe from theft.

“We’re also providing information on the steps they can take to ensure their own personal safety and wellbeing is protected, including how to report crime and receive support if you are a victim of crime.”

Staff will be giving out free personal attack alarms to students, as well as supporting them by

helping mark property on the National Immobilise Database.

Once on there, it can be traceable to the owner if stolen.

The South Yorkshire Police are also encouraging students who are new to the city to remember their limits and to look after them and their friends on nights out. They also encouraging people to make sure they have contact details for everyone they’re with, in order to check up if they get lost.

They also want to remind students to never leave their drink unattended, and to be aware of any suspicious behaviour taking place around them.

However, they also welcomed the new and returning students back to the city at the start of term.

People and Planet society protest Barclays Ben Warner

S

tudents from the People & Planet Society held a protest outside a Barclays bank in Sheffield to encourage them to divest from fossil fuels.

The protest happened on 30 September, outside the branch of the multinational bank on Pinstone Street.

The society, which has groups at different universities nationwide, wants Barclays to stop investing in fossil fuel companies, and invest in renewable energy instead.

According to People & Planet, Barclays are one of the top ten financiers of the industry, having

invested £12.5 billion in fossil fuels since 2014.

Their ultimate aim is a transition to a “renewable energy future”, and they believe if Barclays withdraw their backing for the fossil fuel industry then this will be easier to facilitate.

People & Planet have criticised Barclays for $3 billion they gave to Colombian coal companies in 2013 and $67 million to the parent company of Energy Transfer Partners, who are responsible for the Dakota Access Pipeline in the United States.

The pipeline has been controversial because it threatens Native American burial grounds.

Barclays are banned from the SU following a successful campaign from last years SU Development Officer, Michael Kind.

Forge have contacted Barclays for

a response but at the time of print have received no response.

Forge TV is to host the annual NaSTA conference next April.

The National Student Television Association conference is held every year, bringing together around 50 student TV stations for a conference and awards.

Forge TV, the sister organisation to Forge Press at the Students’ Union, has been given the chance to host it next year.

Tom Mason, Head of Training for Forge TV, has been elected as host officer for the event.

“I’m so excited to be organising the event for the first time,” said Tom. “When I went to my first NaSTA conference back in 2014, I aspired to host it one day, and now that dream has become a reality.”

The conference will be held from 13-15 April 2018, and 400 delegates from around the country are expected to attend. Industry professionals from the BBC and ITV will be present.

On 11 October, Forge TV will be holding a NaSTA sub-committee election for roles such as industry liaison and technical coordinator, in Sheffield Students’ Union at 5:30pm.

Hard water contributes to eczema David Anderson Eczema could be caused by the damage to our protective skin barrier by hard water, a new study by the University of Sheffield and King’s College London has revealed.

The research showed that exposure of skin to hard water damages the skin barrier, which is our defence against outside threats such as bacteria and sunburn.

This in turn increases the sensitivity of the skin to potential irritants found in products such as soap or washing powder.

Lead author of the study, Dr Simon Danby from the University of Sheffield’s Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, said: “By damaging the skin barrier, washing with hard water may contribute to the development of eczema.

“Patients with eczema are much more sensitive to hard water than people with healthy skin.”

Protesters outside Barclays People and Planet

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

7

University resource tracks 1800s convicts David Anderson Research by historians at the University of Sheffield has discovered new insights into the lives of British convicts in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The study, by the University’s historians and digital humanities developers, reveals how punishment affected the lives of 90,000 individuals who were convicted of crimes at the Old Bailey between 1780 and 1870 and were either imprisoned in Britain or deported to Australia.

The study revealed many convicts did not serve their punishments as originally laid out, with many originally sentenced to death being transported instead, and others who were sentenced to transportation but in fact never left Britain.

It also found that British convicts that were transported to Australia tended to desist from offending once married with children, and that children born to transported convicts were healthier and taller than those born to convicts imprisoned in Britain.

Professor Bob Shoemaker, from the University of Sheffield’s Department of History, said: “This is the first resource of its kind to provide indepth information on the lives of people convicted of crimes in Britain hundreds of years ago.

“It enables users of the site, whether they be family historians, teachers, crime writers, history students, academic researchers or simply people with an interest in the past, to trace the lives of convicts and uncover how punishments affected them.”

O’Mara with Sheffield Labour Students

Sheffield Labour Student

Sheffield Labour Students host O’Mara talk Ben Warner

N

ew Labour MP Jared O’Mara gave a passionate speech

about caring for others while speaking to students at the Arts Tower on 28 September.

The Sheffield local beat former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg to take the Sheffield Hallam seat in June’s general election, leaving his role with West Street Live for Westminster.

Sheffield Labour Students asked him to be their first guest speaker of the year, and at the event he talked about why he wanted to stand for Parliament, the struggles so far, and what he’s achieved.

He also said how much Young Labour events had changed since he got involved nearly 20 years ago.

When I first started coming, there were only about 20 people at talks like this. Now this lecture theatre is

nearly full,” he said.

“The job has been tough, there’s a lot of mental stress, but it’s shown me the good I can do for my

constituents.”

O’Mara called for unity in the Labour Party too, following their recent election successes: “When some left the party over the Iraq War, I stayed because I believe whatever the Labour leadership is, it’s still better than the Tories.

“I have a deep-seated compassion and empathy for other people, and that should pepper our experience on this planet. That’s why we should try to help others.

“We can’t forget the good that the Blair and Brown governments did when in power.”

He has repeatedly talked about how unexpected it was for him to win the seat back in June, and how he only wanted to lose by 5,000 votes. He thought staff at the count

were joking half an hour before the result announcement, when they told him to prepare a speech.

I have deep compassion and empathy for other people Since his election, he has spent much of his time campaigning for Parliament to be more accessible.

Jared O’Mara himself has cerebral palsy, meaning he can’t do a tie or properly button up a shirt, and is encouraging Speaker John Bercow to

review the situation.

“I’ve asked the Speaker for a full audit to see how Parliament could be improved, but it’s not something he

can authorise,” O’Mara said.

The new MP also reiterated his desire to see more representation in Parliament, with more transgender, disabled and female MPs. “I believe in equality on all grounds, and all branches of society need representation in Parliament. They are their own best representative,” said O’Mara.

Sheffield Labour Students cochair, Lilian Jones said: It was an honour to have Jared at our first meeting. Over the years SLS have worked hard to make Sheffield Hallam Labour, so to have Jared come and speak to us was very special. We look forward to welcoming more exciting speakers this year.”

Uni of Sheffield grad elected to NATO role Ben Warner

A Air Chief Marshal Tech. Sgt. Ave I. Sir Stuart Peach

Young, U.S. Air Force

University of Sheffield graduate has been elected to one of NATO’s most senior roles, starting next year.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach will take over from General Petr Pavel as the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee next summer.

The role is one of the most important in NATO, alongside the Secretary General and the Supreme Commander. Peach was elected by his fellow members of the Military

Committee.

“It is a huge honour to have been chosen to be the next Chairman of the Military Committee, one of the most important positions in NATO, central to European security,” Peach said.

“I am excited to take on this next challenge at such an important time for NATO, at a time when the alliance must modernise to face new and ever adapting threats.”

Peach graduated with a degree in Geography, Economics and Social History in 1977 and soon joined the

RAF, eventually rising to the rank of Air Chief Marshal, the most senior peacetime rank in the Air Force.

He became Vice-Chief of the

40 years in the

armed forces

Defence Staff in 2013, then Chief in 2016 succeeding General Nick

Houghton. As the head of Britain’s armed forces, he gained a place on the NATO Military Committee, which he will head from next year.

8

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Features facebook.com/forgetoday @forgetoday press.features@forgetoday.com

Hello! We’re back with another fabulous Features section to help you settle into a new year at Sheffield.

This issue we’re looking at the politics of make-up.

Does anyone really enjoy getting up two hours earlier just so they can put expensive stuff on their face?

We’ve also ventured into the weird and wonderful world of ASMR. Check it out, it could change your world.

Finally look below for Rebecca Lally’s take on the possibility of all our social media apps merging into one. After all, if Facebook stories now exist then anything is possible, right?

Have an idea or a story for us? Make sure to get in touch with us by email, or come to one of our fortnightly contributor meetings.

forge_press

Has anyone noticed that all our apps are starting to look the same?

forge_press In a world where every app update seems to come with a new and uncalled for copycat feature (Facebook stories, anyone?), are we heading towards social media oblivion? Rebecca Lally explores whether ‘Facesnapstagram’ may be on the horizon

Forge Press

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

9

13.45

+ Your story

Direct

H

indsight is a wonderful thing and it’s reasonably common to think life was simpler a few years ago.

Remember 2014? Not only was our country still in the European Union, but you could look at your iPhone 4S screen without the crippling sense of confusion that comes with the overwhelming choice facing us now.

Back then, if you wanted to see perfectly filtered photos of dinners, you went straight to Instagram. If you wanted to snoop on relationship statuses: Facebook. Rubbish

Snapchat? That tends to be for trusted friends, or least people of a similar age. Why not show them how much fun you had at Tuesday Club?

Chances are they’ll be posting a similar thing.

These days, people are engaging more and more with social media; Facebook recently reached two billion users, an unprecedented reach for a social networking site.

Social networking companies, the majority of which are now owned by Facebook, are anxious to retain their user base as well as recruit more users in an increasingly competitive market.

Slowly but surely, apps that previously served very distinct functions are starting to look more similar, with some features being mirrored across several platforms. Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram and Tumblr now all have a instant messaging feature just like Whatsapp. Facebook and Instagram now both have temporary photo sharing and story features that were once unique to Snapchat. The photo filters that made Instagram popular are now being rolled out across most apps with photo functions.

With such tiny differences between apps, it’s difficult to judge e x a c t l y which one is best suited to particular types o f media. This has resulted in an endless copycat cycle w i t h every app

Apps that previously served very distinct functions are starting to look more similar videos of nights out and cocktails: Snapchat.

That was it, really. Messenger, WhatsApp and Twitter were less popular, serving their own purposes and little else.

Flash forward to 2017 and oh how the world has changed. Not only are we living in a terrifying era of political instability, our social media usage has drastically changed (admittedly, these aren’t of equal significance). If we have something to share, we can now choose from a variety of platforms, each with only slight differences.

Most people have a range of social media accounts for different audiences and tailor what they share accordingly.

For example, people tend to use Facebook to connect with everyone they’ve ever met. It’s the first social network most share with new acquaintances, leading to some ‘friends’ on there that we might have no desire to speak to ever again. The amount of people you’re connected to and the relative permanence of Facebook means users tend to be more careful about what they put up on there.

You might not want your old piano teacher to see you dancing wildly in a grimy club while throwing a gin and tonic around, but it’s probably okay to let her and all your other friends know when you get a new job. But

update bringing with it familiar features from another social media platform.

So what next? It’s possible that s o m e apps may realise that they are losing what made them special in the first place and minimising their unique selling point.

Kieran

Megan

In 2016, there were reports that Twitter was considering extending its famous 140-character limit for a tweet to 10,000.

The subsequent outrage (why not just post a l o n g status o n

Facebook?) encouraged the company to reconsider and to stick with what was already working.

In this vein, maybe we could see a return to more pared-down apps doing what they’re originally meant to rather than trying to do everything at once. However, evidence would suggest that we’re equally likely to see more obsessive mimicry between the major social media apps, with each apparently trying everything at once to mirror the success of their competitors. It’s difficult to predict what will come next (phone calls on Snapchat?

Boomerangs on WhatsApp?) but if the trend continues we may be faced with several indistinguishable apps on our phones.

Due to the fact that they’re all owned by the same company, we might even see the creation of a Frankenstein-esque ‘Facesnapstagram’ app which allows you to access and share everything in one combined place.

Interestingly, this would take us back to the days of 2008 and 2009, where sites like Myspace and Bebo would be used for posting everything - from videos to blog posts. Back then there was very little dilly-dallying between different platforms and functions.

Perhaps the future of apps may complete

Reena

the cycle, combining all our social networks into one ‘super-app’, with every feature you might need in one place.

As satisfyingly tidy an idea that is, it’s possible that our social media usage has become too advanced for such a solution.

In the era of Netflix, Deliveroo and internet shopping, people are used to picking and choosing. From TV shows to take-aways, we like to have an array of options in front of us, and the freedom to select whatever we want.

In our minds, at least, social media apps, even those with the exact same functions and features, are all subtly different - and being able to choose between them all is something that most people find appealing. No one really knows why it’s cool to share a story on Snapchat, but not on Facebook or Messenger, or why it would be weird to post only selfies and cat pictures on Facebook, but this is perfectly acceptable on Instagram. Many of us seem to have accepted these vague distinctions as fact - perhaps because we enjoy the process of making choices and weighing up our options. No matter how much these various social media apps mimic one another, it is likely that we will still strive to see the distinctions between them rather than their similarities.

Although a ‘Facestapstagram’ style super-

Due to the fact that they’re all owned by the same company, we might even see the creation of a Frankenstein-esque ‘Facesnapstagram’ app might in theory be more convenient, people in this day and age are likely to be drawn towards more choice rather than less.

10

Wednesday 4 October 2017 Forge Press

The Rise of ASMR From niche YouTube videos to groundbreaking research in Sheffield, Grace Braddock explores the growing community of ASMR.

F

rom a young age, I loved soft spoken stories or classroom games where a peer would gently trace words and pictures on your back. They would send me into a complete state of relaxation which was often accompanied by a pleasant tingling sensation that shimmied through my body.

Later in life, in a bid to beat a bout of insomnia, I used YouTube to find relaxing voices and I stumbled across the Whisper Community which, after the term was coined in 2010, would go on to become the ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) phenomenon.

ASMR is the term associated with experiencing tingles throughout the body, commonly triggered by gentle or repetitive movements and/or an array of soft sounds.

The tingles often begin in the head and spread to the back of the neck and down the spine, in varying intensities dependent on the trigger and the individual. However, some fans of ASMR don’t experience tingles at all. They instead enjoy the videos for relaxation or a solution to insomnia.

ASMR videos are unique in that they usually talk directly to the viewer and treat the viewer as if they are in a one-on-one situation. Everyday life scenarios, like going to the hairdressers, are often used to recreate situations which individuals find particularly relaxing and ASMR inducing.

ASMR has garnered growing media attention since 2010 and, particularly since 2016, it has received a huge increase in attention on YouTube. It’s even supported by the more mainstream media and since July 2016 W Magazine have ran an ASMR series on

their YouTube channel, where they get well-known faces to have a go at triggering ASMR. Big YouTube channels, such as FBE who have over 16 million subscribers, have produced reaction videos to popular ASMR videos which has undeniably helped the community to grow.

Notably, in July 2017 GentleWhispering, known in the community as a leading ASMRtist, became the first ASMR channel to reach the 1 million subscriber milestone.

Ikea took it to new extremes recently by releasing an online ASMR advert, where different items were advertised using ASMR techniques like soft speaking and the scratching and tapping of surfaces such as bed sheets, desks and carpet.

Of course, with ASMR gaining significant attention, not all of it is going to be positive. The portrayal of such high levels of personal attention during everyday scenarios can result in the videos being misinterpreted as having sexual connotations and the media’s exploration of ASMR has frequently played on this interpretation.

The Guardian are one of many news publications to perpetuate the sexualisation of ASMR, with a 2016 headline dubbing the phenomenon as “videos that give YouTube viewers head orgasms.”

The media’s emphasis on orgasm comes from a combination of a lack of understanding of the term and their aim to shock and attract the reader, but for individuals who have never heard of ASMR or watched a video, this representation can be quite misleading and off-putting.

However, ASMR has begun to be explored more

Gentle Whispering ASMR | YouTube

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

11

ASMR | Darling YouTube

thoroughly in the media. A one-off 2015 BBC Radio 4 programme titled Brain Tingles hosted by comedian Isy Suttie explored not only her favourite ASMR YouTube channels but research in the field.

From a small community on YouTube to mainstream media attention and pioneering university research, there is hope that this increasing awareness of ASMR will allow viewers to be more open about their experiences. which has undeniably helped the community to grow.

Notably, in July 2017 GentleWhispering, known in the community as a leading ASMRtist, became the first ASMR channel to reach the 1 million subscriber milestone.

Ikea took it to new extremes recently by releasing an online ASMR advert, where different items were advertised using ASMR techniques like soft speaking and the scratching and tapping of surfaces such as bed

of the term and their aim to shock and attract the reader, but for individuals who have never heard of ASMR or watched a video, this representation can be quite misleading and off-putting.

However, ASMR has begun to be explored more thoroughly in the media. A one-off 2015

ASMR is the term associated with experiencing tingles through the body, commonly triggered by gentle or repetitive movements and/or an array of soft sounds.

Dr Emma Blakey is one of four researchers researching ASMR at the University of Sheffield, one of the few institutions studying the subject.

What kind of experiments or research did you do surrounding ASMR? We ran two studies. The first was a large online study where we wanted to understand what the triggers of ASMR were and whether watching ASMR videos affected a person’s life in terms of feeling more positive or negative, more relaxed or more stressed and whether this would differ for people who said they experienced ASMR vs people who did not.

The second study brought people into the lab to measure physiological responses to ASMR videos compared to control videos. Participants were either ASMR experiencers or did not experience ASMR, allowing us to compare responses like heart rate and skin conductance to different videos and look at whether this differed for ASMR experiencers.

Was there much research in the field of ASMR prior to your study, as from my research it seems like there are relatively few individuals/ institutions researching the area?

There was (and still is) very little research on this topic. Because it is so idiosyncratic, ASMR is hard to study but there has been a lot of research on other idiosyncratic phenomena, such as synaesthesia.

One study came out when we began researching this. The paper, by Nick Davis and Emma Barrett, was a descriptive study focusing on ASMR experiencers and gave us some valuable early indication of the kinds of triggers people who have experience ASMR have.

Since then, we are aware of a few other labs in North America who have begun to look at this. But we are a very long way off understanding the phenomenon and we hope our research results will really start to help us to understand it.

IKEA USA | YouTube

sheets, desks and carpet.

Of course, with ASMR gaining significant attention, not all of it is going to be positive.

The portrayal of such high levels of personal attention during everyday scenarios can result in the videos being misinterpreted as having sexual connotations and the media’s exploration of ASMR has frequently played on this interpretation.

The Guardian are one of many news publications to perpetuate the sexualisation of ASMR, with a 2016 headline dubbing the phenomenon as “videos that give YouTube viewers head orgasms.”

The media’s emphasis on orgasm comes from a combination of a lack of understanding

BBC Radio 4 programme titled Brain Tingles hosted by comedian Isy Suttie explored not only her favourite ASMR YouTube channels but research in the field.

From a small community on YouTube to mainstream media attention and pioneering university research, there is hope that this increasing awareness of ASMR will allow viewers to be more open about their experiences.

What interested you and the psychologists at the University of Sheffield in getting involved in a relatively new phenomenon?

We were all PhD students at the time. We had been talking about running a study on it for a while, as a couple of us experienced it, found out it had a name and that not everyone experienced it! We were surprised at how little research had been done which motivated us to do some research alongside our PhDs.

Do you see ASMR being a big area of research and interest in the future?

I really hope so. Many more people are now becoming aware of it as a phenomenon because of the media and YouTube channels dedicated to ASMR videos. There is huge potential for studies to offer insight into this given it’s such an under explored area of research.

12

Wednesday 4 October 2017 Forge Press

FEATURES GETS PERSONAL

Making it up.

The majority of us spent half of our childhoods rummaging through our mum’s make up bags to cover our faces in her bright red party lipstick. Now, our make up routine is a frequent part of getting ready. Contributor Elizabeth Day explores her experience with cosmetics and whether the fun factor of make up quickly diminishes once we reach our teens. unsplash.com

L

ike many young girls, my first experience of make-up started with the toddler version of Boots — my mother’s makeup bag.

Given half the chance, I would sneak into my parents’ bedroom, clamber over to my mother’s side and empty all her cosmetics onto the bed. After endless mornings of watching my mother get ready, at the tender age of 8 or 9 I felt I already knew what I was doing. I would gravitate towards the always dark, always red, lipstick, smearing round and mostly inside my mouth.

And, my tastes haven’t changed that much.

Thanks Mum. While sensationalist headlines about toddlers in make up (such as the Mail Online’s “Should we let our three year old wear makeup?”) synchronizes the voices of helicopter parents who are convinced that the clear lipgloss supplied by the modern day girltalk magazines is the end of the world, children using makeup is not the issue here.

When young children use make up, it is almost always an extension of their play, an elaborate addition to a character in a make believe world, a prop to use when dressing up, an accessory which is no more meaningful than a synthetic feather bower.

There is no mention of correcting, covering-up or masking your face, instead it is excitement about the prospect of glittery body lotion and purple eye-shadow. These subtleties are key — they mark the stark difference between how makeup is presented to children versus how it is sometimes forced upon adults.

Of course, not every adult uses makeup as a mask to hide behind. So many use it to express themselves and honour their creativity. Sadly I am not as gifted. No make up tutorial could teach me the secrets of how to construct a cut crease in the same space of my eyelids or make

that discarded pink eyeshadow in the bottom of my make-up bag look edgy instead of like pink eye. If I am being bare-facedly honest, make up is rarely fun for me.

Hold back the tears, I know.

Make up can often feel like a personal compulsion, due to sinister advertising campaigns which insist we need to be proactive in the fight against ageing in case we - wait for it - look older. As we actually get older.

Let us get one thing clear. No one is wearing purple lipstick for the sake of the man. No one carves out their cheekbones in the hope a catcaller will compliment their contour. No

For that 9am lecture, the last thing I want to do is blend my foundation. one forks out £23.50 for the full size of the Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray just to pull at Corp.

That shit is an investment.

While I wear make up for myself, I would be lying if I said the sexist beauty standards that expect women to be self-taught makeup artists and still look natural didn’t influence how often I wear it.

When I roll out of bed at 7.00am for that 9.00am lecture, the last thing I want to do is blend my foundation.

But you should never underestimate the power of fear. It is strong enough to force me to embark on the whole 45 minute routine of my face when I’m hungover the morning after.

Most of the time, make up is not my choice.

Yes, I choose to spend time and money on these cosmetic chemicals, but wearing it day

to day feels anything but consensual.

Most of the time, wearing makeup feels like an obligation, an expectation and a requirement of being a proper woman. Even writing those words make my stomach churn.

It goes against everything I think as a feminist.

I know makeup shouldn’t make me feel complete or like the best version of myself. I know I am enough without it.

But to deny the corrosive effect of cosmetic advertising has had on my own self-esteem would be to deny all reality.

With products marketed as the eraser and the porefecter is it really any wonder that women feel imperfect, broken and unfinished without cosmetics?

And that is when the brush finally hits pan.

This year’s autumn/winter fashion week has seen the rise of the bare face. During a panel at New York Fashion Week, photographers Peter Lindbergh and Steve McCurry, author Fran Lebowitz, and actress Jessica Chastain praised the no-makeup-makeup look, lauding it as a shining example of self-acceptance and individuality. While the makeup was less radical, models were by no means makeup free.

Call me cynical, but a trend where you strive to look like you aren’t wearing makeup, when you are, seems to be an even more unrealistic standard of beauty. I’m not convinced the definition of beauty is evolving to try and be more inclusive, it just requires a different, more natural-looking skillset.

Makeup is not inherently sexist but it is undoubtedly one of the patriarchy’s most effective weapons, leaving 44% of women feelingunattractive without it, according to a poll conducted by the Renfrew Centre Foundation. Sure, makeup can be fun but when leaving the house barefaced makes you feelincomplete, unworthy and entirely codependent on your tiny tubes of expensive war paint, something isn’t right.

Of course, in theory, we could all just choose to do away with makeup. But when makeup is marketed as an essential product for women to look presentable and to be taken seriously, our own free will becomes blurred.

When makeup is no longer as easy an option as choosing to have tea or coffee in

44% of women feel unattractive without makeup. the morning, but a necessary component of femininity, the element of choice in this once fun process is taken away.

Obviously anybody should be able to wear makeup if they want to and not wear it if they don’t.

But when sociological studies such as Jaclyn S.Wong and Andrew M. Penner’s ‘Gender and the Returns to Attractiveness’ reveal that women who wear makeup are likely to earn more than women who don’t and when bosses admit they would discriminate against a makeup free woman, it is clear why we rarely see not wearing makeup as a legitimate choice.

Makeup more often than not is not a product of our own free will but a compliance with a corporate, sexist mandate.

Much like my childhood experience of makeup, we should all ideally use cosmetics as a vehicle to showcase our individuality and self-expression as and when we choose. But when women’s job prospects rely on them perfectly straddling the line between wearing “too much” and “not enough” chemicals on their face, it hardly seems a fair choice.

Sheffield Students ’U

nion

@sheffieldsu @sheffield

su

S U W O L L FO

T S E T A L E H T T U O D TO FIN U S R U O Y M O FR

14

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Opinion facebook.com/forgetoday

James Pendlington & Josie Le Vay

|

Opinion Editors

Shalom readers, welcome to this weeks thrilling edition of Opinion. Just to get you salivating for the section ahead we’ve got pieces on chavs, Vince Cable and Communism, all three of which you will end up thinking you’ve spotted in the smoking area for Tuesday Club.

But seriously, it’s a good ‘un this issue. We both did ‘research’ on Tinder checking with people

Forge Press

on what their views are on a £10 minimum wage for over 25s with some hilarious responses in the column on page 19 and who doesn’t like Vince Cable’s face photoshopped onto Superman’s body?

We hope you enjoy this edition as much as we enjoyed making it (we didn’t).

James & Josie

press.opinion@forgetoday.com

Pride and chavjudice: not PC David Dean

T

You may think this man is a chav but he’s actually running to be your local MP in whichever home county it is that you’re from. Drop your prejudice you classist wanker.

Dr. Blofeld

he term ‘chav’ has become an accepted piece of everyday slang. It is thrown about to describe the way people dress, act and where they live. Many use it harmlessly, with no discrimination intended and without thinking twice about what they are saying. The term has even crept into the media in discussions about the fashion sense of footballers and other celebrities.

However, as the word has become a piece of everyday vocabulary, the inherent prejudices within it have not gone away. It is a term that encourages the middle classes to look down on a working class that has become a scapegoat for the government and media.

Ask a friend or colleague what the term chav means and they will most likely respond with ‘Council house and violent’, without much consideration for what that acronym suggests. But language is not just a tool with which to express ideas, it is a facilitator that reinforces them, in this case adds to the misguided generalisations on which it is based.

‘But what about this is classist?’ you might ask.

Surely there is no such thing as a class system in Britain nowadays? Class lines have become blurred and difficult to understand, as an increasing number of people see themselves as part of the middle class. But the working class has not ceased

to exist. In fact, the working class has itself become divided. On one side, the media present us with the ‘decent’ working class, who work hard to move up the social ladder, and beneath them the ‘undeserving poor’, the lost causes of society.

These people are berated as ‘benefit scroungers’, ‘shirkers’, ‘layabouts’. They are blamed for crime and unemployment. When describing these people, it seems acceptable for the media to use the term chav. But our attitude widens the divide.

The term chav is a sad reminder of the prejudice that By using the term chav, we are separating a nation into ‘us’ and ‘them’.

The class question has far from gone away, even if it is less prevalent in the everyday rhetoric of parliamentary debate. The term chav is a sad reminder of the prejudice that permeates our society, from the school playground to the supermarket queue.

Ba-Bi I was born this way

Daniel Jones

I

am and always have, as far as my memory takes me back, been attracted to both men and women. Only as you get older do you learn that there are names regarding sexuality: gay, straight, bi, etc. With age I learnt that there are more socially acceptable ideas concerning sexuality and what the ‘norm’ is.

A few years ago, I came to terms with the nature of my sexuality and my understanding of it was not something that can be rigidly defined in a box with a binary label on it – identifying as either gay or straight did not resonate with me. I viewed it as something more fluid that could change throughout life. I decided not to place such a big emphasis on labelling what ‘it’ was. “I am not a box to be labelled”, I thought, “I am a person and I am attracted to people, it just so happens that the gender of the person I can fall in love with may or may not be of the same sex.”

I later came across a term that recognises my sexuality, and whilst I disliked the notion of having to label myself, I identified with this term.

But this term to me felt invisible, dirty, shameful even. I felt no pride

in proclaiming it yet I knew it applied to me. I am bisexual.

The responses I have gotten regarding my sexual orientation have been, for the most part, positive. Others follow up with condescending questions or comments: “But you must have a preference?” … as though having a vague preference either way undermines the notion that I am bisexual.

“So you’re half gay” … no, I’m 100% bisexual.

Bisexual erasure (denying the legitimacy or existence of bisexuality) is pervasive in society.

There is a significant lack of bi+ representation in mainstream media, research, policy making and even within LGBT+ communities; this year’s London Pride failed to include a group that specifically represented bisexual people.

An ideal world would satisfy our need or desire to fit in somewhere, to be united and included in commonality, and allow us to find our label with no negative repercussions. We would be ok with having differences, and our differences would be celebrated above similarities. We would accept that the human mind and body can

never be simplified to a handful of terms scientific or otherwise. And know we are so much more than that. However, this is not an ideal world, and when you have a lack of representation, role models, and little to no exposure to the spectrum of sexualities, you face feeling insecure and second guess the sincerity of your own feelings.

It is disappointing to see celebrities who have expressed that they are neither gay nor straight and tip toe around identifying as bisexual. It feels like labels are fine if they read ‘gay’ or ‘straight’ but anything else, in this case ‘bisexual’, lacks credibility. “I don’t need a label” is almost a better alternative. Better bisexual representation in the media would have made my understanding of that aspect of myself a lot easier.

The Bisexuality Report from 2012, which looks at bi people’s experiences, highlights that bisexual people have higher incidences of mental health problems including depression, anxiety, self harm and suicide. It found that this is “strongly linked to experiences of biphobia and bisexual invisibility.”

This knowledge combined with my own negative experiences of bi erasure have made apparent to me

the necessity of being vocal and proud about your sexuality.

Bisexuality is not synonymous with being greedy, disloyal, promiscuous and polyamorous.

Some bisexual people may be promiscuous and polyamorous, so might gay and straight people and there’s nothing inherently wrong with that. My being in a relationship with a man doesn’t make me gay, and likewise a woman that I’m straight, it doesn’t matter who I date I’m still very much bi. It’s both hurtful and biphobic to suggest that we’re more likely to cheat, and unless with two people will be dissatisfied.

Frankly I am perfectly content being bi, my discontent arises from the ignorance of others and their refusal to acknowledge that part of me.

For those confused or think I’m going through a phase, allow me to clarify for you by paraphrasing Robyn Ochs: bisexuality is having the capacity to be attracted sexually and/ or romantically to more than one sex and/or gender, not necessarily to the same degree or in the same way.

It’s high time we recognise the B in LGBT+ and embrace love in all its capacities.

Frankly I am perfectly content being bi, my discontent arises from the ignorance of others and their refusal to acknowledge that part of me.

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

15

Is he inVinceable?

Thomas Hunt

T

he Liberal Democrats’ tainted reputation from the Coalition Government puts Vince Cable in a delicate position of trying to restore the popularity the party had once.

Cable’s biggest challenge is trying to break the momentum which Jeremy Corbyn has built following the snap election this year. The student vote has been critical to Lib Dem successes in previous years, but it is doubtful he will be able to regain it. Rather, his best hope is to target centrist voters within the Labour party, and pro-EU Tory voters who are disgruntled with the internal party squabbles. With the Conservatives swinging further to the right and Labour swinging further to the left, there is a gap in the centre of British politics which the Lib Dems could fill.

His reputation as an economist is high, but whether Cable’s public image is good enough to get a strong following is another matter.

Although he is well respected, he does not excite people the same way that Jeremy Corbyn does. Furthermore, Cable’s high-profile role in the Coalition Government has led many on the left to label him as a ‘closet Tory’. It is possible that these attacks could resurface, to keep the centrists in the Labour party from joining the Lib Dems.

Cable is the most sensible appointment for leader of the party, with one of the most pressing political issues being how the Government handles Brexit. His pro-EU

stance will be a welcomed voice to challenge the Government on how the UK handles its exit from the EU. However, his decision to continue the Lib Dem policy of a second EU referendum will, in my opinion, have a negative impact on the party’s support if there is another election in the next two years. Thus, Cable’s leadership will largely be based around challenging the Government for a ‘soft Brexit’, rather than making the Lib Dems legitimate contenders for Number 10.

It is unlikely that Cable will take the Lib Dems back into a position of power It is unlikely that Cable will take the Lib Dems back into a position of power, but his time as leader is clearly meant to be temporary. It may be a long time before they are as popular as they were in 2010, so Cable’s largest responsibility is offering a pro-EU opposition in Parliament.

After that, the party needs to find a younger, more progressive leader who can regain the support they have lost over the last few years.

Miss after Ms after Miss: Society constantly Mrs the mark Katie Meadows

I

recently read Jess Phillips’ book Everywoman. She is the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, previously worked at Women’s Aid, and is a proud and outspoken feminist. Something she said about gendered titles really rang true, maybe more than anything else in the whole book. When discussing the traditions and conventions of parliamentary committees, Jess talks about how she chooses to use the title “Ms” as opposed to “Madam” when addressing a female speaker or chair.

Reading this planted the seed, making me think about the topic again, and how the first thing you see when you look at a woman’s name is defining her by her spouse (or lack of). For as long as I can remember, my mum has always used Ms instead of Mrs as her title, and until a few years ago I had never really questioned why.

She has been married for well over 20 years, but has consistently made a conscious effort to withhold this

piece of information. It is completely irrelevant to almost all aspects of society, nobody really needs to know.

From day one, unless you’re living in the past or were born into aristocracy, a boy is known as Mister.

This does not change when he weds.

A woman does not need a separate address to tell the world she has said “I do”. Whether that change in status is deemed a positive or negative one by spectators, depending on the scenario, it remains pointless discrimination. Personally, I tend to go by “Ms”; if my male counterpart does not have to automatically declare his marital status with a title, then why should I. It is unlikely that you’ve ever sat with both a male and female driving license in front of you; even less likely to have spotted the subtle difference with the names. On the license card of someone identifying as female, the title is there with you first names.

However, for a male, there is nothing.

This is done automatically and unless you looked hard and had reason to

suspect it, you would never know that the DVLA expends this completely unnecessary extra printing cost. If it was simply a method of identifying the owner as male or female, “Mr” would be on all the pieces of plastic owned by those who identify as male.

Why should someone looking at my driving license need to know whether I am married, if not to potentially define a woman by her life choices.

This is obviously a completely personal choice, but it should not matter either way. Nobody should feel defined by whether they are married or not, and it is up to that person as to whether they disclose this to the world. I respect everyone and their decision when it comes to how they choose to be addressed; just do not belittle me by insisting the fact that I am an unmarried woman means more than it would if I were an unmarried man.

Jess Phillips

Image by The Big Lunch

16

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Forge Press

Opinion Debates Arguing for.

David Maclachan

Arguing against.

Kate Marron

W

hile I personally am not a man of faith it seems very clear to me that faith school themselves aren’t the problem, but the education system as a whole. The presence of faith schools as they are today does not present any unique problems that differ significantly from problems faced by all schools.

There are two key criticisms of faith schools: firstly that they create unfair admissions policies; and secondly that they encourage views which are either not deemed socially acceptable or that otherwise create a culture that limits the child’s opportunities.

Starting with a faith school’s admissions policy it seems that there isn’t anything unreasonable about it. In England any school with a designated faith character may only take an applicant’s faith into consideration when the school is oversubscribed – they may not refuse any child a place if a place is available. A fair response is that large numbers of schools are oversubscribed and therefore a child’s faith inevitably becomes a factor. It is true that for many faith schools which are considered the best school choice in an area, a

...to simply state that they have no place at all in a modern society is throwing the baby out with the bath water child’s faith may well be the deciding factor as to whether they get a place.

The root causes of oversubscription have little to do with faith. Instead, they can be traced to lack of funding for schools which prevents them from taking more students and lack of reform which leads to poorer results and therefore fewer parents willing to send their children there.

Investment in local non-faith schools would help to alleviate the problem of oversubscription and therefore reduce the instances of faith being included in entrance criteria. Furthermore, the problem of preferential treatment can only be applied to schools that are explicitly categorised as faith schools – any maintained or independent

school may not use faith as a criteria at all. In official government regulations on the matter, the faith of a child is very rarely relevant to admissions.

Other issues with faith schools such as concerns about radical views or issues of stifled opportunity can sadly only be attributed to individual institutions. In recent years there have been some concerns regarding teaching of radical and potentially inflammatory views in Christian and Muslim faith schools; however these

instances are in the minority, making it far more reasonable to revise faith school policy and reform individual school practices rather than level the entire system. A key example would be approaches to sex education. Even in non-faith schools with a Christian background, sex education can still be woeful and in my experience rarely went more in depth than ‘here’s a condom and here’s how it works’, so to expect Christian faith schools to teach beyond the doctrine of abstinence before marriage is perhaps asking too much.

I fully understand that on this issue both sides are at loggerheads: faith schools don’t want to deviate from their religious positions, and critics want them to catch up. A simple solution to this would be to send external sex-ed teachers to faith schools. That way faith schools don’t have to teach anything they don’t want to, but children still receive the well-rounded education they need.

Surely this is a far easier solution than simply saying we don’t need faith schools, which to fully dismantle would require an overhaul of almost a third of UK schools?

It would be unfair of me to dismiss any criticism of faith schools and state that they’re fine as they are – there are absolutely valid concerns about their conduct and impact on the lives of students. However, to simply state that they have no place at all in a modern society is throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Reasonable restrictions are already in place on what is acceptable for faith schools to teach or avoid, and regulation seems to be the best policy in dealing with problems that they present.

I

’ve been there, I’ve done it, I’ve got the t-shirt and Lord knows I’m never going back. First hand experience of what a faith school involves is all I need to be able to say with complete conviction that they are not a good idea.

The outdated model that faith schools are currently allowed to run on preaches dogma without contradiction, enforces beliefs without question and stamps on the curiosity of young minds. Faith schools

are used as an easy way of keeping children in line with a particular religion, which greatly limits the freedom and choices of the students themselves. For nearly 11 years I did not hear a proper argument against the existence of God. Questions which edged conversation closer to debate were almost immediately sidelined and teachers taught elements of the curriculum with an obvious bias. Only whilst taking a Philosophy A-level did I realise that there were genuine

...a person should at least have the opportunity to be presented with the alternative and make their mind up for themselves criticisms of any of the beliefs I’d been force fed for over a decade and a half.

I am not against religion itself - by all means have faith in whichever

deity you choose - but a person should at least have the opportunity to be presented with the alternative and make their mind up for themselves; an opportunity that does not present itself in faith school.

Faith schools also have the ridiculous opportunity to strip its curriculum of vital information.

Sex education can be reduced to something which resembles little of anything remotely useful. Other schools put condoms on cucumbers while we were sat with a piece of paper and told to circle all of the forms of contraception the church approved of. Funnily enough I

This form of education is impractical, old-fashioned and downright harmful don’t think natural family planning or abstinence are realistic options for this generation’s high school lovers. When ‘that girl in Year 11’ gets pregnant because her boyfriend didn’t know how to use a condom properly, it will be the school that’s to blame. This form of education is impractical, old-fashioned and downright harmful.

Advocates of faith schools often claim that they maintain a sense of community. Yet, with many multicultural areas being commonplace throughout the UK, faith schools preserve ignorance of alternative beliefs, dividing communities further. Focusing heavily (if not solely) on one belief can lead to a complete lack of understanding and intolerance towards another.

Religion does have its place in education and maybe the regulations on faith schools can be updated.

Maybe the problem can be rectified.

Regardless, as it stands the current system reduces the rights of children, can stunt their natural curiosity and in certain cases leaves them illequipped to deal with the realities of adult life.

Faith schools: Should they exist?

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

17

There is no fun in funeral Shelby Storey

G

rowing up in a mining village not too far away from Sheffield, I will never be able to forget when news of Thatcher’s death broke. My Facebook timeline could easily be mistaken for a Maggie Thatcher Haters Club. Walking down the high street I’d be met with, “have you heard the bitch is dead?�

- the joy was practically tangible.

I believe everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I don’t think it is right to celebrate the death of anyone to such length.

Don’t get me wrong, there are some awful people in this world who I think many of us could agree would benefit society as a whole if they ceased to live, but to actually celebrate their death seems a bit extreme. Take the case of Thatcher, for example. Some consider her one of the greatest Prime Ministers in living memory, others consider her the devil incarnate who ruined the lives of pretty much everyone in the North, with devastation that

transcended a generation, touching lives even today. Whatever your opinion, she was a person and to have parties with burning effigies and parades celebrating her death just seems cruel.

You’re probably thinking “but what about Hitler, or evil dictators of the past and present? Shouldn’t we celebrate their deaths?� Again I’d have to say no. To be relieved or

overjoyed that an end has come to the tyrannical reign of such people is one thing, but I think we need to reflect on our own values as human beings and consider what it means for human nature if we can be so quick to celebrate the death of someone else. As far as I’m concerned if you’re prepared to celebrate someone’s death then you’re no better than they are.

T

he ‘good on paper’ defence of Communism, or the idea that the practical or specific implementation of communistic systems of governance are the issue that has displaced, starved and murdered uncountable millions, especially from those who consider themselves of the right, troubles me deeply.

...this has been the single most destructive delusion since the French revolution

I have two primary criticisms of this. The first and most obvious is as follows. A system of governance that believes that the entire material wealth of society should be redistributed according to the will of the proletariat requires a strong state, or similar actor, to perform

We asked various people on Tinder what their views are on a ÂŁ10 minimum wage for over 25s. The grey boxes are their replies, please enjoy!

I’m craving chocolate Oh ok cool, well luckily we live in a Capitalist society so as long as you have money to exchange for goods and services you’re sorted then friend Also, whilst we’re on the subject of Economics, what are your views on a £10 minimum wage for over 25s?

Das Krapital Matthew Rowland

gets political

such a redistribution. Thus, the state must control a significant aspect of your life: it determines the clothes you are entitled to wear, the food you eat; here there can be no safeguard from the power of the state as you are effectively the property of the state and it must use you for the advancement of ‘the people’. This stands aside from the valuable point that those who would use the state for their own gain will do so.

Leadership positions will eventually inevitably be taken by those who are prepared to do anything to advance themselves - and if the dangers of such leaders are not apparent to you then I suggest you open any book on human history.

Secondly, the fundamental and unchallenged notion at the heart of communistic ideology is that of absolute egalitarianism; the notion that all people are to be treated equally. I would argue that this has been the single most destructive delusion since the French Revolution. Naturally, most readers will profoundly disagree, but I ask you: why should those who make different decisions to you be treated in the same manner? One would not consider someone without a medical degree to be your doctor, nor a paedophile to be your child-minder.

This attitude can only ensure

Sounds lovely but it wouldn’t work that individuals are not seen as individuals, acting under their own direction, but as automatons with no freedom. It denies the fundamental humanity of people by neglecting the very thing that makes us human: the ability to make our own choices.

If people are not people, there is no moral consequence to their harm when it is for the “greater good�.

People should not be treated equally - they should be treated fairly.

Therein lies the crucial difference.

Disagree with any of these opinions? Got something to say?

Then email us here at opinion! we’re always looking for content. honestly, just send us anything. If we don’t get enough articles for next week we have to write them and we’re a pair of lazy buggers and really do not want to have to do that. This is all voluntary, we don’t get paid to do any of this shit. Make our lives easier.

Please elaborate Well firstly I don’t really give a shit about the people over 25 If an 18 yr old pays tax they should be given the same minimum wage as any other tax payer

Umm I guess as Great as a higher minimum wage would be, lower skilled workers would see a drop in employment and I’m like half a sleep right now

Depends what job there doing đ&#x;‘?đ&#x;‘?

What kind of jobs do you think don’t deserve that kind of wage?

Ones where a monkey could do it

18

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Lifestyle facebook.com/forgetoday @forgetoday press.lifestyle@forgetoday.com

Harry Gold and Ellie Conlon

|

Forge Press

Lifestyle Editors

So, you made it through Freshers’

Week. Hopefully your brain and body haven’t suffered too much of a beating, because in this week’s issue, Lifestyle have yet again carefully collated a great selection of articles to feast your eyes upon.

Our photography editor Kate Marron chronicles an extraordinary couple of weeks during Summer in which she stayed with the South African Himba tribe. Still upholding and living by the traditions set long before the interference of the modern world, Kate was able to observe some of their cultural practices and traditions, as well as taking some beautiful photographs to accompany

her words.

Ellie, my editorial counterpart, also made an excursion, albeit one contained within the Steel City itself. In an attempt to assess the quality of the Information Commons’ refurbishment, she holed herself up there for the night and wrote about her experiences, all in the interest of the Forge readership.

And for your entertainment, we collected the stupidest stories of this year’s Freshers’ Week after journeying to Endcliffe village and tirelessly questioning bleary-eyed first-years.

We hope you’ve enjoyed your first few weeks back in Sheffield!

Sheffield’s Stupidest Freshers.

Integration Party Spring 2012

Jirka Matousek

Lifestyle collated the stupidest stories from this year’s Freshers’ Week. We sifted through stories of broken Corp toilets, holes in ceilings and drinking Fairy Liquid. One guy even got hit in the face with a frying pan.

Friendly disclaimer: Forge does not condone any of the below activities, spiking is a crime and we encourage students to drink responsibly.

Anonymous I was playing ring of fire with my flat and was being picked every time as ‘you’ and ‘mate’.

My dear flatmate Kav made a rule where I had to drink when anyone else did and then somebody who I won’t name spiked both my drink and the king drink with rum and vodka when I left the room, completely unbeknownst to me. I ‘won’ the game and had to down the king drink. We headed down to out to Havana Nights but were pulled into a flat party , where I got destroyed at beer pong. I then decided to do the worm for some reason, and after getting off the table two medical students pointed out that I was bleeding. Very nicely, they sat me down and patched me up.

Jamie Van Bragt I was pretty much doomed as soon as I said the famous last words “I’m taking it easy tonight”. On Saturday, I planned to go to Fiesta in the Jungle at the O2 Academy with a

few of my flatmates. Before leaving we started the pre-drinking at a friend’s flat in another Endcliffe building. In order to stick to my promise of ‘taking it easy’ after a rough few nights previous to this one, I only took two beers with me.

However, when I arrived and got into the swing of things, I thought ‘why not?’ to a bit of cheap Morrisons vodka mixers. This was where is all went downhill. I didn’t really keep track or notice how much I drank and thought I was absolutely fine until I got into the taxi and slumped straight to the floor missing the chair.

I stuck to the plan and made it to the O2 in the taxi before deciding, with the only bit of sense I had left that I needed to go home. This was clear after I literally fell out of the taxi flat onto my face. I ended up throwing up in the taxi after a few blurry minutes which I still really struggle to remember any of.

With the throwing up came a £10 fine and being kicked out in the middle of Sheffield, not knowing where I am or how to get home.

Now this is the part of the story where I have no clue what happened, but after putting together what my flatmates told me from phone calls I figured that a group of students helped me to find another taxi. Thank you to whoever that was.

This is where stuff got even worse. After

literally seconds of being in that taxi, it happened again, even worse than before. As you’d expect the taxi driver was very mad, I barely knew what was going on except that the man wanted money that I didn’t have on me. After a pretty scary and confusing few minutes I was helped out by yet another kind person of Sheffield who managed to reason with the driver to take me back to Endcliffe

With the throwing up came a £10 fine and being kicked out in the middle of Sheffield, not knowing where I was or how to get home. where my friend would pay him and I’d pay her back.

This managed to get sorted back at Endcliffe and I got home safe, much to the help of my flatmates and whoever the strangers had

been.

On Sunday morning I woke to the bad news that I lost £50 to the taxi fine, £15 to the ticket of the event I never went too and £10 on the first taxi I was sick in. Along with having to clean up the aftermath pretty much all afternoon with a banging hangover and a huge loss of dignity.

Anonymous While I was on a fancy dress bar crawl (slightly worse for wear) I brought the flame of my lighter up to the end of my cigarette, which got entangled amongst some heavily hairsprayed, bright green Joker hair. A huge flame erupted and a massive burning sensation hit my scalp which I was stupidly far too drunk to believe was anything worse than a little singe.

I woke up the next morning and three hospitals and nine hours later, a large chunk of hair at the front of my head was burnt to the root and I had a 2cm burn across my forehead that the nurse was sure will scar.

Two years later the tuft of hair has finally grown back and the scar has gone, but I’ve definitely learned my lesson!

Forge Press

19

Wednesday 4 October 2017

The IC’s Refurb - Reviewed.

Okay so if you haven’t heard yet (seriously, where have you been for the past three months?) but the IC has had a bit of a make-over.

If you’re a first year and are yet to know what this iconic building is, it’s one of the University’s libraries open 24 hours a day. If you’re a third year and are yet to know what the IC is, you should probably, you know, go and do some work in there. Unless you study sociology.

Just to begin, Forge Press is in no way advocating the act of moving into the IC. Don’t do that. It’s definitely illegal and you will be removed by security. If you’re struggling with housing, please contact the Advice Centre.

Ellie Conlon

M

uch to my disappointment, nobody came to take my coat and bag upon my arrival to the IC. The scanning process to enter the building was one massive inconvenience. For your average third year student having had years of practice, just one swift swipe and you’re gliding through those doors. However, I ended up stuck behind a first year who’d scanned her ID in the wrong place four times in the thirty seconds I’d been standing there.

With help from me and a lovely man behind the front desk, she was in in no time. However, the whole process had clearly left her feeling very confused and me slightly irritated.

The service in the IC was good. The cleaner dropped a hello every time I walked past and I had a lovely chat with the man on the front desk. However, he did seem a bit confused when I asked if he had any rooms available.

Besides that, a great conversation.

I can’t say I enjoyed my stay enough to sleep here again.

I slept on a sofa located on Level 1 and woke up with a stiff neck. The IC does not provide pillows or quilts, which for me is a required standard for any accommodation. To give the IC another chance, I tried out their alternative sleeping arrangements - rearranging three spinny chairs and lay across them (conveniently, this can be extended to four or five chairs to suit your height). This was very uncomfortable and I couldn’t sleep for the fear of one rolling away and me ending up on the floor. All in all, I’d say I had about three hours worth of decent sleep. Not impressed.

The new booths, however, were perfect for a good nap. I could have probably have had an excellent sleep sat up in one of those. Excellent addition to the IC. The IC’s refurb also brought with it a new carpet. Which is potentially even more dull

than the old one and makes your eyes go a bit funny if you stare at the floor for more than 20 seconds. The new carpet also appears to absorb sound, which is nice if you end up sat next to a loud eater. There’s nothing more annoying than someone eating loudly whilst you’re trying to read the Communist Manifesto. Either that or the IC was just really dead - which is probably true, considering I went there during the first week of uni at 10pm.

My stiff neck and I popped down to the IC’s café to tuck into a nice breakfast before my lecture. There wasn’t a good selection of breakfast food, not even toast was on the menu!

However, the IC’s £3.50 meal deal was available. It was a bit of a struggle to eat at 10 in the morning and was slightly more expensive than a Tesco meal deal, but convenient if you can’t be bothered walking anywhere else to get food.

The IC did have a vast variety of coffees to choose from, which is perfect to counter the shit night’s sleep I had.

Before I left I thought I’d check out the IC’s showering facilities. I was confused at first– why on earth does the library need a shower?

Who sweats whilst reading a book? But, I was pleasantly surprised and very impressed. Unfortunately, the IC provided no complimentary shampoo, shower gel or towels. But, I have to say, the shower was spacious, and extremely clean (Probably because nobody’s felt the need to use showers in the IC since it was built back in 2007).

Upon leaving the IC, you have to scan your Ucard to even get out of the building. So if you lose your UCard during your stay, you’re basically stuck in there forever, which is a slight inconvenience - your neck will never forgive you if you have to sleep on those couches every night.

If you lose your UCard during your stay, you’re basically stuck in the IC forever, which is a slight inconvenience, but not the end of the world.

20

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Southern African Tribes in the Modern Era. Kate Marron

I

t’s hard to escape the rush of modern day. We receive constant reminders that things are rapidly changing and desperately scramble to keep up with new information, concepts and technology just to stay in the loop.

But when these expectations of adaptation are thrust upon society, what becomes of the communities who either choose to uphold ancient traditions or who simply don’t have the means to adapt?

Tribal heritage remains a hugely significant part of African culture, despite centuries of political and social change across the continent. The lives of those within these communities vary greatly depending on each tribe in question.

Even if you narrow it down to just the southern countries, the range of effects are rather distinct and noticeable.

Even most people residing in the hustle and bustle of the cities (who consequently do not live the stereotypical tribal existence) have an understanding of their tribal background. Modern governments work to unite citizens and overcome tensions between rivalling tribes, creating what appears to be a community dynamic which is more akin to what a Western tourist might regard as normal.

Yet there remains a diverse set of select communities who still uphold and live by the traditions set long before outside interference. The Himba Tribe are a prime example of this with their etiquette, dress, language and settlement structures still largely intact. Their customs include bathing only using smoke as opposed to water and females applying a red paste known as ‘red ochre’ which is made from crushed stone mixed with butter or fat.

This does not mean that the lives of the Himba people (or other southern tribes for that matter) have been left unaffected. The vast reaches of

modern influence has changed their day to day lives.

Although many of the traditions remain intact, it appears that the effects of tourism have led to the greatest change in lifestyle for many tribes. Craft markets have become a part of the ventures of the communities, particularly in Namibia.

The route leading from Etosha National Park to the coastal town of Swakopmund has tribal markets dotted along it, offering tourists the opportunity to meet the people of these various communities and purchase handmade souvenirs; making this otherwise near deserted route a tourist attraction in itself. The road was built more for convenience, in order to connect the popular destinations,leading to the tribe building stands there in order to profit from the passing traffic. As it stands, a steady flow of buses now stop at various points along the road.

Products range from handmade dolls in tribal dress, wooden animal carvings, bags, bowls and bracelets. Some of the crafts include bottle caps and corn husks, whereas others are finely carved from a single piece of wood or made from brightly coloured materials.

The benefit of buying directly from these markets means that the money goes back to those who made the product as opposed to a larger corporation. It also often empowers the women in these communities because they are often the creators and sellers of the products. Although some of the Tribes are matriarchal by default, the economic freedom Tribes Women have gained from selling their wares has influenced the individual communities as a whole.

In some cases, the outlooks of tribes people have been changed due to outside influence. One example would be the Chief of a Matabele settlement in

customs include bathing only using smoke as opposed to water

Forge Press

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

21

Zimbabwe, who is known to be fascinated by the different cultures of the people that come to visit him, regaling tourists with tales of New Zealand men performing the Haka (he found it wonderfully bizarre watching white men perform a war dance). He has even met and danced for the Queen.

In some cases, such as with the Herero Tribe, the traditional dress has changed. In the Herero case because of European influence around 1915 after the end of the German rule of the area when the Herero people adopted the uniforms of their former oppressors. Some believe that this was done as a form of protest and a way of showing the lack of power the uniforms now held over them. Others argue that the people simply enjoyed the stylistic choices of the uniforms and chose to copy them for themselves. To this day the women can be found wearing dresses similar to that of the European women of the past, but with a African adaptations, such as using traditional beautiful bright, patterned material.

Although many people of tribal descent are now more accustomed to the life in a city, there are some communities whose culture and heritage remains relatively unchanged by the modern world. It would be naĂŻveand ultimately false to claim that they remain uninfluenced by a variety of global affairs, but their foundation and core beliefs still remain a strong and proud part of the overall culture in Southern Africa.

Photography by Kate Marron.

Do you have a Life/Style?

Lifestyle are on the lookout for new writers, and we want you to contribute. Fashion, travel, sex, drugs you name it, we’ll claim it. Get in touch with us at press.lifestyle@forgetoday.com if you’re interested in getting involved.

Autumn

THEATRE LISTINGS 11 - 14 Oct

22 - 25 Nov

SUTCo presents

SUPAS presents

My Mate Dave Died

Fiddler on the Roof

Drama Studio, Glossop Road £5.00 - £7.00

Drama Studio, Glossop Road

25 - 28 Oct

1 - 2 Dec

SUTCo presents

£7.00 - £9.00

SUPAS presents

Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass

Musicals through the Ages

Drama Studio, Glossop Road

6 - 9 Dec

£5.00 - £7.00

15 - 18 Nov SUTCo presents

The 39 Steps Drama Studio, Glossop Road £5.00 - £7.00

TBC, £7.00 - £9.00

SUTCo presents

Journey’s End Portland Works £5.00 - £7.00

8 - 9 Dec USLES Christmas Panto

Kuzco

King Edwards VII School, Glossop Road, £4.00 - £5.00 SUTCo Sheffield University Theatre Company Sheffield Students’ Union’s award winning drama society and one of the country's leading student theatre companies. sutco.org SUPAS Sheffield University Performing Arts Society Sheffield Students’ Union only society specialising in musical theatre. We love to sing, act, dance, and most importantly have fun. supassheffield.com USLES University of Sheffield Light Entertainment Society We perform pantomime and comedy and generally do silly things, in aid of local Sheffield charities, and to entertain people who may not normally get to go to the theatre.

Sheffield Students’ Union, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TG • su.sheffield.ac.uk

Wednesday 4 October 2017

23

|

facebook.com/forgetoday

Laura Mulvey

@forgetoday

The next four weeks are set to be explosive for Sheffield’s arts scene, as the ever-popular Off the Shelf Festival of Words returns to the Steel City.

Featuring some of the biggest names in literature, the festival caters to book enthusiasts of all persuasions.

Along with a whole host of novelists and poets, you can expect to see politicians, comedians, activists and scientists discussing their work.

Arts press.arts@forgetoday.com

Arts Editor

The festival will see a vast array of talks, workshops and performances taking place at venues across the city between Saturday 7 October and Friday 3 November.

Student tickets are widely available and many events are free to attend. Plus, we’ll be covering all the highlights, so be sure to keep up with Forge Press Arts for plenty of literary action!

For more information and tickets, visit offtheshelf.org.uk.

Forge Press

Here’s our pick of events over the next fortnight: Reaching New Heights - Andy Cave Sunday 8 October, 7.30pm, The Octagon Centre Miner-turned-mountaineer Andy Cave discusses his adventures scaling some of the world’s toughest summits.

How Not to be a Boy - Robert Webb Monday 9 October, 1.00pm, The Octagon Centre Robert Webb of Peep Show fame takes a fresh and funny look at the bizarre expectations facing boys and men.

Out of the Wreckage - George Monbiot Wednesday 11 October, 7.00pm, Pennine Theatre Renowned political writer George Monbiot shares his vision for a future of social and environmental justice.

Review Of Kith

and Kin

at the Studio Theatre Joanna Jenkins

F

From left to right: Tom Senior, Louisa Lytton, Lauren Atkins, Michael Cortez, Rhiannon Chesterman, Oliver Jacobson, Rosanna Harris, Ryan Heenan. Photo by Paul Coltas.

Review Grease the Musical at the Lyceum Theatre

Florrie Andrew

W

ith a sensational ensemble and an orchestra to match, Grease makes for an electrifying night at the theatre.

Rebellious teenager Danny Zuko and sweet Sandy Dombrowski say goodbye as they head their separate ways after a secretive summer romance. Little do they know that Sandy has just enrolled at the same high school as Danny - but Danny has a reputation to uphold. The world famous musical follows their relationship as they deal with the peer pressures of Rydell High.

From the moment the cast burst onto the stage for ‘Grease is the Word’, the audience were utterly rapt.

BBC1’s Over the Rainbow winner Danielle Hope shines as Sandy as do

8

The number of pots of hair gel the cast get through a week

the rest of the Pink Ladies, especially Lauren Atkins with her stellar

performance as Marty.

The portrayal of the T-Birds is equally engaging, with the performers swaggering through the group’s goofy antics. The Wanted’s Tom Parker plays Danny Zuko and, while he has a pleasant voice, he

Thanks to former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips, the choreography throughout the show is phenomenal. lacks the smooth confidence that the character is renowned for.

Nevertheless, Parker and Hope’s ‘You’re the One That I Want’ finale is

sublime.

As a musical packed with such iconic numbers, any production of Grease could easily undervalue the lesser known songs but director David Gilmore ensures no stage time goes to waste. ‘Those Magic Changes’ is effortlessly executed by Ryan Heenan [Doody] and the extravagant staging makes the number a comedic highlight.

Costumes are at the heart of Grease and, even with a staggering 140 costume changes in the show, there is no doubt that designer Andreane Neofitou perfects them. From the array of vibrant swing dresses to the bold leather jackets, the costumes are a fitting tribute to the 1950s. The silver graduation gowns for ‘Beauty School Dropout’ are simply dreamy.

Thanks to former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips, the choreography throughout the show is phenomenal. The lighting and orchestra for the production almost makes the audience feel like they are at the Rydell High School dance themselves.

For a night of endless fun, jiving and humour, Grease the Musical truly is the word.

amilies are complex and irrational. Christopher Thomas’ Of Kith and Kin, currently being premiered at the Crucible Studio Theatre, explores the complex web of emotions that both binds and divides families.

Of Kith and Kin tells the story of Daniel and Oliver, a couple having a baby through surrogacy. The surrogate is a long-standing family friend, Priya, who previously carried her sister’s child and wants to help the men complete their family.This might bring to mind issues around surrogacy, family and a formulaic ending, but this play is far from predictable.

In keeping with its description as a dark comedy, there are some very entertaining moments, often centred on Oliver’s belligerent motherin-law, played by Joanna Bacon. The audience’s laughter during the first scene is quickly twisted, questioned, and turned into concern as the darker sides of the characters are slowly revealed.

The drama spans a threescene journey from the couple’s lounge, to a courtroom, and finally to a child’s nursery. The sets are simple, enclosed spaces that allow the characters to perform to each other, rather than artificially turning to an audience at the front of a stage.

The intimacy of the Crucible Studio lends a captivating intensity to this effect , ensuring that each member of the audience feels deeply, almost intrusively, involved in the lives of the characters.

The characters love each other in different ways, as parents, lovers and friends, cunningly masking a cycle of abuse. The play raises extremely topical questions about the nature of abuse and the sad reality of how easily it can be ignored, or worse still, normalised.

Of Kith and Kin subverted all of my expectations, leaving me questioning the difference between what people want and what they feel is their inherent right.

The ending is one that haunts you long after you have left the theatre.

Chetna Pandya as Priya in Of Kith and Kin. Photo by Mark Douet.

24

Forge Press | Wednesday 4 October 2017

Facing the Fringe What did you get up to in your free time?

Behind the

Short answer: seeing all the shows we could! Often at the expense of basic human necessities such as eating, sleeping, and relieving oneself (although doing any one of these mid-show can give a struggling act something to talk about).

scenes at the Edinburgh

Fringe with the

Sheffield Revue, our SU’s very

own stand-up

comedy society.

What was it like to be back at the Fringe after four years?

Given that the Revue’s last excursion to the Fringe was so long ago, only a handful of members recall the show we took up there, and fewer still were actually able to see it first-hand.

So, this year when we went up to Edinburgh, it was very much with the impression that we were forging a new Revue-Fringe relationship. Most of the cast were discovering the Fringe for the first time, and in a sense the Fringe was (re)discovering the Revue. Going up there with a cast full of such fresh (yet relatively inexperienced) talent was a risk, but an undeniably exciting one. The entire group was ever-so-slightly on edge. Of course, the worst case scenario was no one turning up to the show, or having the cast booed off the stage (unwelcome outcomes, certainly, but hardly world-ending). However, it definitely felt like more was at stake: we were baring our creative souls during our brief hour of stardom every evening. We’d brought our best material, our funniest sketches, and we were putting on a showcase for anyone and everyone to judge for themselves how good we were.

We loved the rush, yet feared the worst.

But it was worth it. The Revue now is very different from the Revue that existed four years ago. By taking a show up to the Fringe, the new Revue earned its stripes, solidifying its status as one of Sheffield’s premier comedy societies (a fact we kept shouting at the folks on the Royal Mile).

Each night proved more successful than the last and I’m happy to report that every single member performed even better than they ever had before, receiving deserved recognition for doing so. The Fringe was something of a coming-of-age ritual, setting the pace for the following generations of the society.

It was the end of a very successful year for the Revue - an apt way of celebrating both what had been and what is yet to come.

Matthew Prestage - Stand-up and Writing team

The sheer volume and variety of performances during the Fringe means you need not worry about how to fill a spare hour during the day. Simply walk a few metres anywhere in the city centre and allow a promoter to drag you in to see their show starting in five minutes! Aside from a few unmissable bigger names, it’s really all about the free shows! Other than consuming enough comedy for a lifetime (or at least a couple of weeks) all Fringe performers recognise the importance of flyering and publicising their show, so as a society we made sure to put in many an hour of that over the week.

Finally, we simply spent time hanging out together, be it through regaling each other with tales of the day over a pint, catching up on Game of Thrones or whatever other kinds of student revelry we indulged in. A good group dynamic translates into good comedy!

Benny Dornyei - Stand-up and Writing Team

25

Forge Press | Wednesday 4 October 2017

Did you have any unusual experiences?

Did you bump into any inspirational or famous people?

There have been a few interesting moments during our time at the fringe, from seeing a watermelon crushed on stage and having chunks flying into the audience, to watching a full-on murder mystery featuring at least a dozen characters acted out by a cast of two and an unexpected number of dance routines.

But I’d say the most unusual experience was watching ‘hyprov’ (hypnotism + improv). The whole show was a smorgasbord of unusual moments, but my personal highlight was during an improv game between Mike Mcshane and one of the volunteers, in which they performed a scene inspired by the old West.

The scene involved the volunteer’s horse (a plastic chair) getting shot. Mike told the volunteer that she had to stop and put down the horse for good, at which point she clung onto the chair and began to sob, exclaiming that she would not kill her horse (whom she had named, but I can’t recall what it was called). It was so sad that even I was about to cry. That was the point where I realised that the Fringe is really weird and it’s probably the most unusual things I’ve seen in my entire life.

Saquib Idrees - Performing Cast

Have the events of the last 18 months inspired much of your content?

No, not really to be honest. In terms of stand up, I genuinely don’t think anyone even so much as mentioned Trump or Brexit, and I think only one offhand, throwaway joke about Brexit was made.

I think we were quite aware that, with satire being as prevalent as it is in the world of comedy, that if we did make cheap jokes about trump, or referendums, or Corbyn or Theresa May running through a field of wheat, that we’d struggle to come up with actually original material. We saw a lot of acts that had made jokes about that sort of stuff and they all followed a similar line, so our decisions to focus on more original material paid off, as it helped mark us out.

I spotted a few famous faces up in Edinburgh, like James Acaster and Jerry Sadowitz, but not many. Whereas inspirational people? Everybody I met was inspirational!

Everyone I bump into truly inspires me to accelerate global warming and help end the planet.

When did you start preparations for the festival?

This may sound a little cliché, but I suppose my preparations for the Fringe started when I went to my first Revue workshop back in September. I feel like I’ve been constantly learning to be a better writer and performer since that day. To be honest I went to that workshop to fill a free evening in my first week of uni, but the enthusiasm of the current Revue members proved infectious and I quickly caught the comedy bug!

My stand-up set for Edinburgh started as something that I wrote for my second ever Revue show back in February, although it went through quite a lot of refinement since that first very nervous performance. That’s one of the things I love about the Revue; people are really open, helping each other grow as comedians. You’ll always get really useful feedback after a show, both on what worked and constructive comments for improvement.

I had some real basics to work on, like learning to look at the audience, but between that first test run and performing at Edinburgh, various Revue shows gave me opportunities to become more confident onstage.

Workshops, performances and feedback improved my writing too, taking me from something that was initially a series of rambling anecdotes, and making it tighter with more punchlines. Going to see shows with other Revue members provided me with a whole lot of inspiration too; and I now have a whole bunch of young, female comedy role models to look up to – most of whom I discovered through the Revue. I’ve still got a huge amount more to learn, but as I move away from Sheffield to start a new job, and explore the world beyond the Revue, I don’t think I could have asked for a better first year in comedy.

Performing at the Fringe was the icing on the cake.

In all seriousness, I was inspired by the artists I saw perform, and the not-so-random people I bumped into.

Artists such as Sheffield Revue alumni Sam and Tom (and their Boondoggle counterparts Siân and Zoë) showed me how bizarre and absurd comedy can be whilst still making everyone laugh. Siân and Zoë certainly inspired me to think about mixing horror into comedy a lot more. Lovehard inspired me to take more leaps in the technical side of performing. Josie Long inspired me to take risks and mess with the audience a lot more, playing practical jokes as much as performing verbal ones. Gein’s Family Giftshop inspired me to think differently about the structure and form of a show.

The most inspiring people I met were definitely the audiences I performed to who made me question my self-worth, material and fashion sense. A truly inspiring festival.

Ethan Davies - Stand-up and Writing Team

How can students who are interested in getting involved in the Sheffield Revue get in touch with you?

My answer is as follows: “Don’t talk to me.”

(Though, if you do want to, visit sheffieldrevue.com)

Damian Bemben - Stand-up

Sarah Harrison - Stand-up and Writing Team

Marcus Newman - Stand-up and Director

Members of the Sheffield Revue celebrate their success, while Ethan Davies (centre) contemplates the end of humanity.

TICKETS NOW ON SALE £6 TICKETS 6 ROOMS OF MUSIC ST

TUESDAY 31 OCTOBER

27

Wednesday 4 October 2017

|

facebook.com/forgetoday

Chloe Dervey

@forgetoday

Hi Gamers! This issue features an interview with Dan Eaton who runs the Retro Games Cafe in Crookes, which I throroughly recommend you visit! He had some really interesting things to say, particularly about the transition from retro styles to the cinematic AAA titles we see today.

I have a huge soft spot for old games and many actually still

Games press.games@forgetoday.com

play well today. After all, the core gameplay mechanics of Pokémon have brought success to the franchise for over 20 years!

Also I took a trip to EGX 2017, you can find what I thought of some of the upcoming releases available on the show floor on page 40. I think Forgotton Anne from Throughline Games is actually going to be a big deal you heard it here first!

Forge Press Games: Why start a Retro Gaming Café?

FPG: What do you think really attracts people to Retro Gaming?

FPG: Is it hard to get a hold of old games and consoles?

Dan Eaton: It came about because I’m a primary school teacher and at the end of term for a bit of fun I’d take in an old games console, and the kids who never did gaming really enjoyed playing on something different. The ones who thought they were good at gaming, actually weren’t maybe as good as they thought, particularly with things like the N64 and the really unusual joystick. There really is a market for it; kids want to do it, families enjoy doing it and it brings parents back to what they used to do when they were young. It’s a new way to provide a safe space for communities and families to come and relax and enjoy themselves.

DE: These are still very playable games - you don’t need to be massively into games to be able to play them.

But really I think it’s that whole memories back to childhood, enjoying your time playing games. It’s actually memories of playing it together with friends. Those conversations about: “what are the special moves on street fighter two?!”, what are the cheats, the passwords… you don’t get that anymore.

DE: Yes and no. It can be cheaper being into retro gaming, but with it becoming more of an ebay dominated world of first and second hand retro games its pushing prices through the roof. You can’t pick up an old console for £10 at a carboot sale anymore. Though at the moment the market is flooded with Guitar Hero and Singstar for everyone selling their old PS2 stuff as well.

FPG: Which particular Retro Game is your favourite?

FPG: The Retro Games Café usually has many games up for play, but today is a Pokémon special event!

FPG: Is there a specific age group coming to the café?

DE: We initially thought it would be mostly teenagers- but we get a lot of dads bringing their kids, who sit and game with them! 10 or 20 years ago, this kind of audience coming out on a Saturday afternoon, just wouldn’t happen. Computer games have reached an age where parents remember it. It’s not just for the younger generations, it’s really for any age. We had a couple of grandmas last time trying games for the first time! One of them really got into Super Mario Land on the Gameboy, it was quite hard to prise her away from that.

PRESS START Retrogaming Cafe Christmas Edition Wesley Hall, Crookes Saturday 9th December

Dan Eaton interviewed by Chloe Dervey

Nintendo

Games Editor

DE: I don’t have a massive single favourite game, more like favourites for each console.

The original Sonic 2 was probably the first game I completed and Shinobi 3 on the Mega Drive is just brilliant. It’s still lovely graphicswise and still really good to play. This all started off with the consoles I’ve grown up with-it goes back to a Sega Master System which I’d kept, then a Mega Drive and so on. I actually stopped buying stuff about the PlayStation 2 time, but now that’s technically retro anyway!

FPG: What are your thoughts on how gaming has evolved away from the retro styles and towards modern cinematic play experiences?

DE: I think both have got their place. Probably the late 90s was the start of the big-cinemaepic-style games and 3D graphics. I have a big soft spot for Final Fantasy 7, and playing Castlevania recently on PS2 is brilliant.

Unfortunately, by the time you get to Xbox 360 and PS3, you don’t tend to get those little gems that slip through the net. Everything is wide scale big name games. I almost feel the start of 3D graphics inhibited gameplay probably for 5 or 10 years. Some of the best titles coming out on the PS1 were not trying the 3D graphics but using the cartoony graphics, like Megaman 8. It pushed the PS1 to its full potential and totally avoided any 3D rendering.

DE: It’s mostly in response to what the community wants to do. It’s such a big franchise and brand, instantly identifiable.

Everyone enjoys it and its really child friendly, and we’re really conscious that we don’t want to be putting stuff out there that isn’t appropriate. The likes of Halo would be amazing to do as a multiplayer social gaming, but it’s not family oriented.

Pokémon fits perfectly.

FPG: Looking around the café you can tell Retro Gaming really seems to bring people together!

DE: We’ve tried really hard to find multiplayer games that people can play like this. Gaming has so long been a sit at home and play it by yourself- but actually the best gaming experiences I’ve ever had have been social. It’s the late night Mario karts, or Golden Eye on the N64 till the early hours of the morning, and that’s what I think of when I think of gaming, and we’re trying to bring that back. It’s lovely to see loads of people coming to have a laugh, and it breaks down barriers between people talking. You’ll get a dad and a son sat with a student, sat with a grandma, sat with one of our helpers all having a laugh. It’s great!

Forge Press

29

Destiny 2 Review Tom Buckland A game of enormous scale with a lot to prove, Destiny 2 had high expectations from many after the performance of its predecessor. The original had its faults, people argued it was far

Wednesday 4 October 2017

too ‘grind-y’ (for lack of a better term).

As a unique hybrid of a first-personshooter and an MMORPG, the original stood out from the crowd but for many it failed to truly meet what was expected. Destiny 2 needed to acknowledge its predecessor’s mistakes: it’s lack of comprehensive story, lack of substance, lack of, well, anything, really. Destiny stood weakly without its future expansions, and no one wants a game which requires purchasing what is essentially DLC to flesh it out and make it enjoyable.

So with the release of Destiny 2, developers Bungie had work to do to offer Destiny redemption from their previous bland and

lifeless attempt.

Players will be pleasantly surprised. In even just the first 10 minutes, everything feels more established. People have personalities rather than just voices and the environments are far more vibrant. Players will undoubtedly stop in their tracks to admire the beautiful environments that the game presents.

The story follows events revolving around the The Cabal, an alien race introduced in the original Destiny, now attempting to invade the galaxy (your usual cliché sci-fi plot.) More importantly, The Cabal want to harness the power of The Traveller (essentially the God of this reality) and that power is what grants

Forge Press

Even from

the first ten minutes,

everything felt more established.

you and your friends what are essentially superpowers for the rest of the game. The plot is basic, granted. But it is enough. Compared to its predecessor, this is a great improvement.

While the original lacked energy, excitement, and care, this game feels like it was created with love and that time was put into it.

However, as is usually the case with firstperson-shooters or MMORPGs, the combat is repetitive and doesn’t require much technique. Exploiting an enemy’s weak spot is not a difficult task, and this removes the need for more tactical gameplay such as staying in cover or striking strategically and timely. Saying that, players will still feel satisfied killing thousands of Cabal soldiers or destroying an overwhelming huge and angry boss.

Destiny 2 follows its predecessor in terms of expansions, already confirming that there will be two expansions to come – and this reviewer is excited to see what the next game brings. Of course there have been problems with the servers but everything else seems to have been polished. There’s always room for improvement, but this is an excellent start.

Destiny 2 is definitely a game to watch.

Bungie | Activision

Review Dishonored: Death Luke Baldwin

of the Outsider

R

eleased almost a year after Dishonored 2, Death of the Outsider is the game’s first paid DLC and tasks the player with the seemingly impossible task of “killing a God”.

Taking place just after the events of the main game, the player takes control of Billie Lurk, a character who long-time fans of the series will be familiar. As the title suggests, Billie is attempting to kill the mysterious Outsider; very little is known about this character or his backstory other than that he occasionally gives people magic powers.

The relatively short expansion does an excellent job of breathing some life into both Billie and the Outsider, both of whom were a treat to learn more about.

Arkane Studios

But that’s all about to change. One thing previous expansions in the series have done exceptionally is flesh out side characters. The best example of this is The Knife of Dunwall expansion from the first game, which saw the legendary magical assassin Daud promoted from cool mini antagonist, to badass, lovable protagonist.

Not only is this a fun way to give a potentially interesting side character some much needed time in the spotlight, but it adds additional

detail to the story that actually compliments and enhances both the main games and the series as a whole.

Death of the Outsider is no different.The relatively short expansion does an excellent job of breathing some life into both Billie and the Outsider, both of whom are a treat to learn more about.

Although the DLC is rather short (completion takes at most 6 or 7 hours) what little content there is certainly packs a decent sized punch.

While perhaps not as innovative and unique as the main game, levels here are still lovingly crafted and detailed making them incredibly immersive.

Likewise, gameplay is not as complex as previous iterations with gear and powers stripped down massively; but the powers and weapons that are introduced add a totally new element to the game and are a joy to experiment with, even more so when using the new energy system which allows powers to recharge automatically over time rather than rely on finding potions hidden within the world.

Death of the Outsider does everything a good expansion should do: introduce exciting new locales; expand on previously introduced character and lore; and mix up gameplay just enough to keep the player interested. So though the £20 price tag and lack of longevity may be enough to put off some people, Death of the Outsider is a must for anyone who loves the world of Dishonored and has been aching for an excuse to return to Karnaca. This reviewer certainly falls into the latter category.

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

28

HIGHLIGHTS When I wasn’t having my mind blown at the genius of Lorne Lanning (creator of Abe and Oddworld) at his Rezzed Sessions Talk, I somehow managed to skillfully navigate the Great British Queue and get my hands on a lot of big upcoming releases all in one day! Here’s a quick round up of some noteable titles...

Super Mario Odyssey

Mario in the Sand Kindom | Nintendo

This was the title I went straight to find as soon as I got onto the show floor, and I wasn’t disappointed. I was a big fan of Super Mario Sunshine and Galaxy, both of which Nintendo seem to have taken the best from and implemented into this new title.

I chose to demo the Sand Kingdom. The joy-cons were handed to me as one in each hand by a helpful assistant who explained it was the best way to play. Can confirm - it didn’t feel unnatural or uncomfortable. Gameplay with Cappy was surprisingly useful and enjoyable. It was easy to manipulate with the joy-cons and has a varied range of (optional) uses in gameplay. The demo features several 8-bit platformer challenges woven into gameplay, and a quick span with the camera showed a vivid world brimming with missions and secrets to find. I may or may not have worn my free paper Cappy for the next two hours of the event because I was so hyped.

Assassin’s Creed: Origins I’m sorry to say it but I felt that Assasin’s Creed Origins was way too similar to all of the other AC titles I’ve played over the years, which is particularly disappointing after Ubi made such a big point of taking a short break from the franchise before launching again with Origins. Actually I’m not sorry - Ubisoft has enough of my money!

One thing I will say is that the environment was stunning - but c’mon we’ve seen this achieved in many games before.

The Eagle Vision mode wasn’t particularly innovative or useful - it only highlighted destination points which were already showing on the navigation bar at the top of the screen.

Bayek’s facial animations weren’t particularly amazing either - I think I’ve been spoilt by the likes of Horizon Zero Dawn.

Bayek searches the horizon for a personality | Ubisoft

Forgotton Anne Forgotton Anne is a new title from Denmark-based indie developers ThroughLine Games. Their mission is to “Amaze and Surprise” and they certainly achieved this during the 20 minutes I got with Forgotton Anne.

The game mixes old school 2D platforming with beautiful cinematics and animations.

The soundtrack is performed by the Copenhagen Philharmonic Orchestra, which really created an unexpectedly immersive and

charming experience.

There is also a choice element added to dialogue which can affect outcomes throughout the game. The puzzle element revolves around Anima, an energy force which Anne can manipulate, and also absorb from animate everyday objects known as Forgotlings. Speaking of which, the Forgotlings are rebelling and the game begins!

Bonku talking to Anne in the watchtower | Throughline Games

Star Wars Battlefront II My time on Battlefront II would have been amazing if it wasn’t for the fact that my screen was in full view of the whole queue, which meant I had to make sure I did well on the multiplayer.

Performance anxiety aside, playing as a humble droid (“Roger Roger”) and the match in general was fun, but what stood out the most was that Rey is in fact terrifying. She moved like lightning across the screen and annihilated me

Mauling Death Reys | EA

several times.

The single player campaign wasn’t playable but I was quite happy to just stay on the multiplayer for as long as possible.

Things are looking good!

30

Wednesday 4 October 2017

facebook.com/forgetoday

Ben Kempton | Music Editor

@forgetoday

Music press.music@forgetoday.com

Whether you’re a new or returning student, Freshers week for many has been a mammoth event. A week that feels like a month, leaving Fresher’s flu sniffles to drown out lecturers’ ramblings and hazy headaches that linger on and on.

The early starts are always a shock to the system as well.

Music for the week was dependant on where you went out. Were

Editors’ Picks.

Album.

Execution of All Things by Rilo Kiley One of my favourite albums I always return to in the autumn is The Execution of All Things by Rilo Kiley. It’s easy going soft rock with classic tracks such as ‘A Better Son/Daughter’ and ‘With Arms Outstretched’. Jenny Lewis’ vocals are always soothing on the ears and her witty and hard hitting lyrics leave more to be discovered on each listen.

Review Rory Mellon

Single.

‘Obvs’ by Jamie xx Better known for ‘Loud Places’ and ‘Gosh’, this isn’t Jamie xx’s most prolific tune but it is absolutely beautiful and the perfect Freshers’ week cure. With no lyrics, the echoed steel pan drums and gospellike voice create an euphoric yet calm atmosphere.

The Big Moon Plug

A

ny fears that the near sell-out crowd at Plug were going to be lacking in energy were quickly dispelled as The Big Moon launched into their first song of the night. Almost immediately, a mosh pit formed that enveloped practically half the audience.

Before we got to that point however, there was the small matter of the night’s two support acts.

Nottingham-based Babe Punch put in a spirited but raw performance saved largely by a seriously talented drummer. Afterwards, Get Inuit took to the stage and they were about as kooky as the name suggests. Lead by an eccentric frontman, the alternative rock band were the surprise hit of the night, even giving the headliners a run for their money.

The Big Moon’s debut album Love in the 4th Dimension was nominated for the 2017 Mercury Prize, so it came as no shock that their music was top quality.

What was a surprise is just how expertly they played live.

Soon after the band took to the stage, Plug was bouncing to every beat of the drums and stroke of the guitar. It became immediately apparent that the four-piece girl band are impressive live performers, and lead singer Juliette Jackson had the audience lapping up every word she spoke and singing along to every word she sang. A strong arsenal of tracks followed, playing hits such as ‘Nothing Without You’,‘Cupid’ and ‘Pull the Other One’ much to the crowd’s delight.

There wasn’t a missed or flat note to be found, and no matter how much they jumped about on stage (at one point Jackson actually jumped into the crowd) they sounded immaculate throughout. Strangely the performance was almost too polished, sometimes leaving the whole thing feeling a tad sterile.

What really set the night apart was the unpredictable moments, such as when a (slightly intoxicated) fan started yelling out song requests or a brilliant cover of Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ which had even those unfamiliar with Big Moon’s setlist singing.

It’s little things like these that really can make or break a gig, so it was still a little disappointing there wasn’t more banter in between songs.

The Big Moon are clearly a band on the rise, putting on a show to match their impeccable talent in the recording booth. Keep an eye out for any future live shows, you won’t be disappointed.

you an indie-head Leadmiller? A raving Tuesday Clubber? Or maybe embracing the cheese at Corp or Code? There tends to be a recurring Freshers anthem as well, one that is relentlessly played on every single night without fail (‘Feed Em To the Lions’). However wild your Freshers’ week was, it’s now time to relax, recover and get your head into uni life, and Forge Music is here to help. Music is essential to getting into a positive, focused headspace

The Big Moon Charlotte Patmore

Forge Press

and hopefully our editor’s picks can give you a cosy helping hand with that.

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Review

31

The War on Drugs: A Deeper Understanding

Sam Kelly Three years on from their breakout third album Lost in the Dream (so successful that even David Cameron’s PR team liked it), The War on Drugs return with their fourth studio record. A Deeper Understanding continues the Philadelphia band’s trademark style, setting them apart as something of an anomaly in modern indie music. At a time when lo-fi aesthetics and ironic, self-aware lyrics are increasingly popular, the five-piece have doubled down on the lush, textured production and earnest spirit of their previous work.

There’s an obvious influence of Springsteen and 80s rock with soaring choruses, wailing guitar solos and lyrics that evoke highways, long journeys and longer nights. It’s a shamelessly nostalgic sound that indicates a yearning for a simpler,

less cynical era of rock music. Yet they easily sidestep the cheesiness and macho bombast that befalls bands with similar influences, the obvious comparison being Kings of Leon.

This is partly due to the ethereal voice of Adam Gradunciel, which provides even the most upbeat and anthemic tracks with sensitivity and vulnerability. Mostly though, it’s due to the focus on sound and texture.

Whether it’s the moment the drum machines kick in on opener ‘Up All Night’, the delightful interplay of acoustic and electric guitar on ‘Pain’, or the ghostly synths that propel the sprawling 11-minute lead single ‘Thinking of a Place’, you can feel the meticulous craft that Gradunciel, who produces as well as writing and singing, has put into the aural landscape of the record.

While the album stands as a triumph in production, it is marred at times by a lack of structure. The album’s ten tracks cover a hefty 66 minutes and only three of these clock in at under six. Quite a few outstay their welcome, particularly the final three tracks which fail to live up to centrepiece ‘Thinking of a Place’. As a result, these songs tend to fall into a self-indulgent codas that struggle to fully engage the listener’s attention.

Nonetheless, this stands as a worthy follow-up to Lost in the Dream that confirms the undeniable, slightly paradoxical appeal of The War on the Drugs, a band that proudly indulge in their nostalgic influences yet come up with results that are both modern and engaging.

Review

The Killers: Wonderful Wonderful

Florence Mooney The Killers are a rare band in 21st century rock. They have an ability to stand the test of time, managing to refresh and develop their sound with each new album. Following the Springsteen-esque power rock of their last album Battle Born, released in 2012, Wonderful Wonderful provides a stripped back, intimate sound and personal record.

In opening track ‘Wonderful Wonderful’, Brandon sings “I am with thee”, seeking to guide a “motherless child” and taking a Christ-like character. In the next track, lead single from the album The Man, this idea is taken to the extreme as Flower’s takes the persona of an invincible man, claiming “nothing can break me down”. As is common

Review

Foo Fighters: Concrete and Gold

Dan Cross After a three year wait following Sonic Highways and fresh off the back of their Glastonbury headline set, Foo Fighters return with their ninth studio album: Concrete and Gold. After 23 years as a band, it would be easy for them to be stuck in a repetitive creative-rut but thankfully they keep their sound reasonably fresh and appealing.

‘La Dee La’ is probably the most Foo-like song on the album. Fast paced with heavy drum beats, it ramps up the pace and volume as you approach the midway point.

‘Happy Ever After (Zero Hour)’ on the other hand is arguably the album’s strongest offering.

It’s a true ballad, and thankfully

ends before any power chords can destroy the mood built up over the past three and a half minutes.

Taylor Hawkins takes lead vocals on ‘Sunday Rain’ which offers an interesting insight into the band, proving that the Foo Fighters aren’t just Dave Grohl et al. He holds his own and makes his mark, whilst the rest of the album is dominated by Grohl’s heavier screaming vocals.

Perhaps the album title is more representative of its content than it first appears. There are some golden tracks such as ‘La Dee Da’ and ‘Run’. You could picture even the least invested Foo Fighters fan singing these back at a festival or concert. Especially the chorus of the latter, or the early beats

of ‘The Sky Is A Neighbourhood’ which have a certain ‘We Will Rock You’ feel about them which will certainly be crowd pleasers.

Then you get the foundation songs, the ones that are there for the rest to be built upon. ‘Arrows’ is a good example of this. It is quite underwhelming with pretty much the same verse repeated for four minutes without any major differences in chord selection or progression as a song. But like a foundation, you need it to build something upon, allowing for several excellent tracks in what is one of the Foo Fighters most refreshing albums in years.

with The Killers Mark Stoermer provides an irresistibly funky bass line, which turns ‘The Man’ into one of the strongest tracks on the album.

After the unashamedly arrogant start to the album, most of the rest of the album deals with tearing these notions apart. In ‘The Rut’, Flowers begs “don’t give up on me… I’m climbing but the walls just keep stacking up”, whilst in ‘Life To Come’ he asks ‘have a little faith in me girl, drop kick the shame’. The driving rock song ‘Tyson vs Douglas’ could have sat just as comfortably on Battle Born or Sam’s Town, whilst one of the most touching tracks on the album ‘Some Kind Of Love’ is a softer track, written by Flower’s to his wife who was dealing with PTSD. Over the past 13 years, the Killers have had an impressive knack of

producing arena-sized sing-alongs.

Tracks such as ‘The Calling’ with its irresistible swaggering guitar and the urgent chorus of ‘Run For Cover’ are sure to be crowd favourites.

And yet, these are not what define the album. With age, The Killers have become more aware of their weaknesses and flaws. On album closer ‘Have All The Songs Been Written?’, Flowers sings: “have all the years been worth it or am I a great regret”.

For their legions of fans, there is no doubt the years have been worth it and with another strong album, let’s hope there are still many more songs to be written.

32

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Review Florence Mooney On 25 September, swarms of old rockers and new fans took to the Foundry for a triumphant set by one of British music’s greatest bands, The Jesus and Mary Chain.

Formed in the early 80s by Scottish brothers Jim and William Reid, they are now the only two original members left, but this has not diminished the power and magic of their live show, performed with the energy of a new band on the block.

Although the band reformed 10 years ago and have been touring ever since, this tour is a little different: it is the first tour in 19 years to be supporting a new album.

Six of the band’s 22 track set came from their 2017 album Damage and Joy, but most of these tracks were played near the beginning. New track ‘Amputation’ served as the opener for the show, with driving guitars and and a soaring chorus exciting the waiting audience.

However, it was ‘Happy When It Rains’ that really gave the crowd what they came for. The Jesus and Mary Chain’s new material always got a positive reaction, but it was

The Jesus and Mary Chain | Foundry

clear that their fans were there to hear the classics.

The band has always been known for the perfect blend of William’s harsh and distorted guitar and Jim’s soft vocals, an element which has not changed in 35 years. The overdriven guitar enveloped the audience with its atmospheric aura and cut above the other blaring instruments.

The sound wonderfully enclosing the audience was probably benefitted by the sheer volume of the gig.

William left sound to speak for itself as, unusually for a frontman, he had very little to say, only pausing a couple of times between songs to say thank you, and then teasing an encore at the end. Throughout the performance he gave no comment on the band’s history, journey or direction.

Ending the main set with the classic ‘Darklands’, the audience were desperate for an encore. Returning with their iconic 1985 track ‘Just Like Honey’, it was ironic that their most famous track is one of their quietest.

Closing the encore with one of their new tracks ‘War on Peace’ the audience still wasn’t going anywhere, leading The Jesus and Mary Chain to

come back for their second encore.

Finally finishing with ‘I hate Rock n’ Roll’, it was obvious that nobody in the audience felt that way and after the band’s triumphant 90 minute set, everybody loved Rock n’ Roll a little bit more.

Check out forgetoday.com to read an interview and live review of The Jesus and Mary Chain’s support act at the Foundry, Sugarmen.

Your next home is just around the corner Find us opposite Grill & Go, SU Level 3 www.smartmovesheffield.com

Forge Press

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

33

The Return of Drake (again).

Music Editor Ben Kempton gives us his take on how Drake has become the worlds most prolific pop star.

T

he upcoming release of a new Drake album brings with it one of the inevitabilities of modern pop culture: the Canadian rapper going straight to number one and his songs being mercilessly regurgitated every day on radio and in clubs.

In Drake’s Nothing Was the Same he ‘raps’, “This is nothin’ for the radio, but they’ll still play it though / ‘cause it’s that new Drizzy Drake, that’s just the way it go”. He, in his oh-so-humble fashion, has a point. Even Drake himself knows that whatever he will produce will rocket to the number one spot and be played relentlessly.

Toronto’s hip-hop superstar has had seven consecutive number one albums on the Billboard 200, equalling Eminem and Kanye West for second-most chart-topping albums. Latest album More Life was streamed around 600 million times in the first week of its release, breaking numerous records including the most streams in a single week and the second largest streaming week ever for an album.

Some question how justified his position as one of the greatest pop stars of our generation is. His lyrics are written by others (More Life had 22 writers) and they rarely contain any depth. When compared to fellow hip hop artist Kendrick Lamar, whose lyrics contain a marathon of racial and social commentary, Drake’s often repetitive shallow lyrics can be laughed at. Take Hotline Bling (please): “You used to call me on my cell phone / Late night when you need my love / Call me on my cell phone / Late night when you need my love / And I know when that hotline bling / That can only mean one thing / I know when that hotline bling / That can only mean one thing.”

However, his record-breaking statistics and worldwide fame speaks for itself. Although the depth of his lyrics can be questioned, their catchiness can’t. A product of lyrical engineering with the purpose to

cement itself in our minds, Drake’s songs roll around endlessly in your head, no matter who you are.

It is no coincidence that the propulsion of Drake’s career has run parallel to the modernisation of pop music. Hip Hop within the last few years has gone from being a popular genre of music to becoming a part of the pop genre itself, overtaking Rock ‘n’ Roll as the most popular music genre in the USA. The likes of Kanye West, Rihanna and Jay-Z have all had their part to play in paving the way for Drake’s popularity, rapidly expanding the size of the audience.

Having Hip Hop presence is not simply enough to become a superstar though. Alongside infectious lyrics, Drake’s songs commonly have simple yet beautifully harmonious beats which prove ideal for relaxing and somehow also dancing.

Drake’s ‘Passionfruit’ is in the key of B major and producer Nana Rogues’ chord progression is utterly infectious. The technical ambiguity produces a warm, euphoric tone similar to any good Dance or House track, a theme found throughout Drake’s catalogue and one which the world has taken to.

The modernisation of pop has also meant the modernisation of pop culture. Before, the biggest artists would only really gain PR coverage via shows such as Top of the Pops and by featuring in magazines.

Social media is now the number one 24/7 PR platform for artists and Drake has utilised this platform

to its full potential. His Instagram account has 37.9 million followers and his Twitter 36.3 million. This has had the dual effect of promoting him as a figurehead of fashion, with Stone Island and other popular urban brands commonplace among his outfits.

Drake also jumped on the recent explosion of the Grime scene to

sign on with Boy Better Know and make appearances on stage with people like Giggs. You could argue this is purely because Drake loves Grime, but it seems suspiciously like a stroke of genius PR, splashed all over Facebook for millions to see.

Not only did this bring him coverage but further added to his brand and fan base.

An interesting revelation with Drake has been his alternative release strategy. Rather than the commonplace album format, Drake’s records have mostly been released in single, EP format. The huge advantage of doing this for any modern artist is to stay relevant, drip-feeding releases to never leave the public eye. Unlike other pop stars who release an album, stay in the limelight for a couple of months only to fade away just as quickly, Drake stays constantly fresh on the scene throughout the year because his tunes are constantly injected into the charts. In terms of the way music is released, Drake and his team are PR masterminds.

So, start preparing to once again feel the presence of Drake everywhere you go. As of yet there are minimal details, other than that the tune has been leaked courtesy of New York Giants football player Landan Collins. Whether Drake excites you, or (like me) makes you tilt your head back and claw at your eyeballs, it is inevitable we’ll all be hearing it.

34

Wednesday 4 October 2017 Joseph Mackay facebook.com/forgetoday

|

Screen Editor

Hello Friends, Romans, Countrymen

- lend me your ears. Freshers’

@forgetoday

Screen press.screen@forgetoday.com

Week is well behind us now, leaving

behind little more than an industrial sized carton of pro plus and a collective chesty cough. mother!

(reviewed overleaf) is an incredibly

section. Some bad stuff too but hey,

painfully

That’s the way it goes. Am I trying to

Assassin. If you like your horror films

imitates Life” (Oscar Wilde, 1898). fill space in my section introduction by quoting Oscar Wilde for no real reason? ‘“No.” (Oscar Wilde, sometime, probably).

While the general consensus on

the newest Kingsman outing is that

insatiable scratching pain in your

is all about the cinematic British-

throat from trying not to cough in a lecture? Grim.

I

digress.

There’s

some

good

stuff in the ever-delightful Screen

Review

If you like your action films

“Life imitates Art far more than Art

uncomfortable cinematic experience, but have you ever experienced the

Forge Press

it’s pretty naff, our feature this week American

collaboration

that’s

Mellon’s

gory,

check

review

of

out

Rory

American

as nasty as Freshers’ Flu, give Sam

Kelly’s mother! review a spin. Joshua Roberts’ round-up of The Good Place

will have all your Netflix & Chill requirements covered, and if you like

your cinema decidedly more indie, check out Gethin Morgan’s review of God’s Own Country.

Cheers for reading my surreal

central to the film. Definitely give

intro, and to finish with a quote from

pretty good.

Force be with you”.

that a read. Unlike Kingsman, it’s

the late great Oscar Wilde, “May the

Kingsman: The Golden Circle

Rory Mellon

W

God’s Own Country - Reyt Good Cinema

Review Gethin Morgan

G

The Movie DB

God’s Own Country

od’s Own Country was dubbed as Brokeback Mountain in Yorkshire, but as anyone who has seen the film will testify that simply cheapens what is an outstanding piece of independent British filmmaking.

Johnny Saxby (Josh O’Connor) is a farm boy struggling to cope with the workload following his father’s stroke.

The miserable nature of his life is quickly established as a vicious cycle of work, excessive drinking and meaningless sex, painting an extremely dour picture.

It’s very efficiently done in an opening ten minutes which at times feels like a fun game of Yorkshire lingo bingo. It’s when Romanian worker Gheorghe (Alec Secareanu), hired as a helping hand, enters the fray that things get interesting.

What may seem like a small change is monumental for Johnny, a man who has been restricted to the farmhouse with only his parents and the pub for company.

Even the dazzling prospect of a night out in Bradford is impossible thanks to his farming commitments. A lack of human interaction means he’s initially extremely cold towards Gheorghe, but the immigrant brings a soothing warmth into the frame, whether by taking care of a runt lamb or tending to a cut on Johnny’s palm. After his presence begins

to soften the protagonist’s hard edge, the tension eventually breaks with an intense, almost aggressive love scene in a muddy field (quite literally dirty). From then on it’s a tip-toeing love story which unfolds quite beautifully.

First time director Francis Lee shows huge promise with a great sense of imagery and atmosphere. There are moments where his lack of experience shows – the camera could linger for a second longer here or there – but his manipulation of sight and sound is classy and he seems to have some flair behind the camera.

Meanwhile, O’Connor is magnificent.

The camera spends large parts of the film close on his face, leaving him in a vulnerable position as an actor. But he carries himself throughout with a magnetic performance, his hard exterior hiding a soft, lonely core.

What sets this film apart from easy comparisons like Brokeback Mountain and Moonlight is that it’s not a film about being gay. It’s just a love story and the lovers happen to both be men. For that, Francis Lee deserves huge credit, and it’s why God’s Own Country stands alone as a brilliant film in its own right.

ithin the first five minutes of Kingsman: The Golden Circle, the film’s juvenile tone and utter abandonment of logic are quickly laid out. Much like its predecessor this isn’t a film for those that prefer thought provoking cinema, rather it’s one that asks you to just go along for the crazy ride.

There isn’t anything inherently wrong with such a requirement, but the combination of a running time well over two hours and a lack of character depth and substantial narrative leaves too many holes for mere action thrills to paper over.

What little plot there is focuses on a criminal kingpin (played by an awfully miscast Julianne Moore) attempting to blackmail the President of the United States into making illegal drugs legal for reasons that aren’t fully explained. It falls to the Kingsman, a secret spy agency, to stop her with the help of their American cousins, the Statesmen.

While the adventure moves along briskly, there’s a real lack of intrigue to the proceedings.

Each development feels predictable and though the film jumps all over the world (including a rather out of place trip to Glastonbury), the locales are all very bland.

Plenty of new faces are thrown into the mix but disappointingly

most of them have little to do.

It’s worth mentioning again just how painfully bad Julianne Moore is here; she dramatically overacts, which is quite the feat in a film with such a silly tone. The Statesmen are also an underwhelming bunch.

Channing Tatum pops up and does basically nothing ,, Halle Berry just lingers in the background while Jeff Bridges’ total minutes on-screen can be counted on one hand. At least Agent Whiskey (Pedro Pascal) is given some time to shine, though the film’s final action

a lack of character depth and narrative scene seriously blunts his impact on the film.

The returning characters are the focus, with street-smart Kingsman agent Eggsy (Taron Egerton) once again tasked with saving millions of people.

Egerton is extremely likeable, it’s just a shame he isn’t given better material to work with.

Colin Firth is thrown back into the mix, his death in the first movie ham-fistedly explained away and his boredom with the franchise blindingly obvious.

Mark Strong makes up the final piece of the returning trio as the Kingsman tech support, but he is such a dull character that few people would have cared if he’d been written out altogether.

There are certainly enjoyable sequences within The Golden Circle; one scene where Whiskey takes on a pack of armed soldiers all by himself is a notable standout. However, there’s far too much fluff between these fleeting moments and there is no reason for a film of this nature to clock in at such a lengthy run time. It would have been far better if Eggsy had been given a decent character arc and a solid 30 minutes had been shaved off.

Instead, this sequel takes the misguided approach of bigger being automatically better, but instead of fixing the flaws of the first film this only heightens them.

If you’ve been craving more Kingsman but slightly worse in every way, then The Golden Circle may suitably entertain you. However, if you’re looking for a sequel that improves upon what came before it while taking the franchise to new heights then stay well clear. There are moments when the film’s insane tone and gleefully violent action set pieces are married in a way that is undeniably thrilling, but these moments are vastly outnumbered by scenes that will leave you wishing that the credits would hurry up and roll.

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Review

mother!

Sam Kelly

D

35

arren Aronofksy is no stranger to controversy, with films like Requiem for a Dream and Black Swan famed for their viscerally disturbing moments. But with streams of audiences proclaiming it the worst film they’ve ever seen, a dismal box office performance and critics thoroughly polarised, his new film mother! may well prove to be one of the most hotly debated films of his career, perhaps even of the last few years of mainstream cinema.

The main thing that needs to be said about this film is that it’s truly, truly weird.The marketing somewhat disingenuously suggests a psychological thriller with a home invasion slant.

Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem star as the central nameless couple, a writer struggling for inspiration and his loving wife who rebuilt their entire house by hand after it burnt down in a mysterious fire. Their marital bliss in the house is disturbed by the arrival of a mysterious houseguest (Ed Harris) and later his rude, unpleasant wife (Michelle Pfeiffer).

It’s difficult to discuss what happens next without giving too much away but suffice to say any thought that this might progress into a typical horror or, for that matter, even follow a typical narrative

quickly goes out the window.

Aronofsky crafts something startlingly ambitious and original and though at times horrible and upsetting, mother! is always abstract and allegorical, with a jaw-dropping finale that dives into pure delirium. It’s unsettling and scary but certainly not a horror film and arguably would not sit comfortably as any other genre either. mother! is an extraordinarily experimental film that will no doubt infuriate many while enthralling others.

For all its originality, it’s a deeply frustrating experience that often seems more concerned with being clever than engaging the audience with the characters or symbolism; the latter, while fascinating at first ultimately becomes a little heavy-handed and showy. The nightmarish climax, which deals with some truly horrible ideas and images, seems to overstep the line into pure exploitation even if Aronofsky’s intention was noble.

But a film like mother! doesn’t seem to be concerned with anything as simple as its audience liking or disliking it. It’s a film to be experienced, to be baffled by and think about for a long time after.

Whether you hate it or not, you won’t forget it.

Review

Review Joshua Roberts

F

rom Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine co-creator Michael Schur, The Good Place hit Netflix last Thursday.

Currently in its second season (episodes are being released weekly), the US comedy is a rollercoaster of emotions and moral turmoil, all whilst keeping the style of humour and deep irony that we have come to love from Schur.

The series begins with Eleanor (Kristen Bell), a self-centred, egotistical woman who wakes up dead.

That’s right, the entire setting for this sit-com is the afterlife.

Eleanor has made it to the titular Good Place, an idyllic wonderland that looks like a cross between Dr Seuss’ Whoville and a family fun park created by afterlife architect Michael (Ted Danson).

Through the first few episodes, she is introduced to the unlikely friendship group she will be spending her eternal life with: Chidi, a Senegalese philosophy professor (William Jackson Harper); Tahani, an alltoo-perfect philanthropist (T4 and Freshly Squeezed Jameela Jamil) and Jianyu, a silent buddhist monk (Manny Jacinto). As we start to realise there is more

to this ultimate paradise than meets the eye, the possibility the zany premise holds becomes apparent. It will be exciting to see what more is in store for season two.

The acting in the show is a lot better than first expected. Jamil transitions from Channel 4 presenter to kooky comedy actress with ease and each actor makes their character their own in a way that speaks to a wide audience.

The use of dry humour, especially from Bell, is excellent in this show and never feels like it is being forced. The amount of small details and one liners makes for a very watchable (and rewatchable) show. It’s easy to discover bits and pieces that were overlooked even after a third or fourth watch.

Impressively, The Good Place has a deep emotional side to it too. Schur’s comedy makes you realise that the best people in the world have their flaws and even the worst are capable of kindness, often in spite of difficult pasts. Hopefully the show will continue to tug on the heartstrings further into season two and there will be even more wit, irony and huge surprises in store.

American Assassin

Rory Mellon

A

The Good Place

merican Assassin is surprising in a lot of ways, with the fact that it’s not totally awful being the most unexpected. An action spy thriller with a teen heartthrob in the lead role sounds like the ingredients for another schlocky mess that only a tween super fan could derive enjoyment from.

Thankfully, that’s not the case here as the first horrifically brutal scene makes very clear: American Assassin is Dylan O’Brien trying to break out of the mould he’s been cast in. While this objective is admirable it doesn’t automatically make American Assassin good, and the film does stumble a tad too frequently for anything other than a passing recommendation. However, there’s no denying that it is far more ambitious than anyone was expecting.

What is most shocking about American Assassin is just how violent it is. Make no mistake about it, the film earns its adults-only rating. O’Brien shoots, stabs and strangles his way through several

countries with all of it shown in full detail. Thankfully, there’s a sense of weight to the violence, with each kill feeling meaningful rather than fun.

Having said that, there is one scene in the third act that feels too sadistic and ventures towards the remit of torture porn, which is disappointing as until then the film hadn’t revelled in its

the film earns its adults-only rating. violent streak.

O’Brien’s character is more than a little cliché, being a wild maverick scarred by his past that refuses to follow the rules, and though he does a serviceable job of anchoring the film. his of lack charisma stops you from ever getting truly invested in his plight. The same can be said of Michael Keaton, who

plays his rough and hard-nosed mentor (another well-worn character archetype) but lacks any of the personality needed to make an impression on the audience.

Another problem is how mundane the plot is, even as it graduates into goofy territory, complete with an evil scheme to detonate a nuclear bomb.

Each development feels clearly signposted and each supposedly shocking revelation or twist is laughably predictable, resulting in a narrative that isn’t especially satisfying or compelling.

‘It could have been much worse’ isn’t particularly strong praise, and it probably won’t be a quote that Lionsgate will want to slap on the DVD cover, but it does sum up American Assassin. If director Michael Cuesta had not employed such a tight grip on proceedings, pacing the film well and making each action moment feel grounded and impactful, then this could have been another generic action spy thriller with nothing going for it. Instead, American Assassin is a very flawed movie that deserves credit for being audacious in areas that many wouldn’t.

Wednesday 4 October 2017

36

Forge Press

BRITISH FILMS AND...

Rory Mellon

A

fter a string of hits in the 1930s, including The 39 Steps and The Lady Vanishes, Alfred Hitchcock was the biggest star in British filmmaking; the cinematic equivalent of a rock star. With the British film industry in the palm of his hand by 1939, he made the decision to move to America, where he would go on to make some of his most iconic works. Hitchcock’s decision to pack up and move across the pond to make his films embodies the guff that still exists between the two industries to this day.

This discussion only carries value

7% of British films turn a profit

if we first accept that both America and Britain have film industries to compare. The former certainty does, but there has been debate whether Britain can really claim to have one.

In 2015 interview Matthew Vaughn, the director of multiple X-Men films and Kingsman controversially asserted that: “we don’t have a British film industry, and I’m bored of everyone saying that we do have one.”

He went on to argue that if European countries such as France or Italy offered better tax breaks to Hollywood, then the small shred of a film industry in Britain would disappear practically overnight.

While his comments maybe go a little far, it’s not hard to see where Vaughn is coming from. Typically, British films tend to be within lower budget genres such as horror and comedy and, even then, a 2014 report from the British Film Institute estimated that a mere 7% of British films make a profit.

Feature length adaptations of popular television series’ or classic British characters dominate the UK film

$36,000 total gross of The Inbetweeners Movie in the USA

industry, and while these films may find success at home, their popularity doesn’t necessarily translate abroad.

The Inbetweeners Movie set the record for opening weekend takings for a comedy in the UK earning a staggering £13.22 million (£45 million overall), in stark contrast to the meagre £23,000 it took in its first weekend in the US. Determining what makes a feature a ‘British Film’ rather than a‘American

Movie’ further muddies the debate, there is no universally accepted criteria.

Take, for example, the Harry Potter series, which you might instinctively label as British films. They were shot in the UK, featured a largely British cast, the crew was predominantly British, and they are based on novels by a British author. Except they were made with American money.

The funding is the crucial factor here.

All of the profits from the Harry Potter series went to the States and while the films’ production certainty didn’t harm British popular culture, it was more a case of furthering filmmaking in Britain rather than British filmmaking.

The lack of major production companies in Britain seriously harms the industry’s ability to make internationally successful films and franchises. FilmFour, Momentum and Working Title are some of the biggest players in the British film

The lack of major production companies in Britain seriously harms the industry’s ability to make internationally successful films industry, but they pale in comparison to companies such as Disney, 20th Century Fox or Warner Brothers who all come from the US. Without such heavy hitting production companies the UK film industry simply cannot make the blockbuster pictures that have come to culturally define American filmmaking for decades.

Of course, it’s easy to look at the recent trend of American blockbusters filming in the UK as a sign that Britain’s film industry is healthy however the opposite may be true.

Some of the biggest films in the world, including The Avengers and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, were filmed in Britain at studios such as Pinewood and Shepperton, but these are firmly American movies.

Director Edgar Wright, who shot his latest film Baby Driver in the US despite being funded with American

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

37

...AMERICAN MOVIES! and British money, commented in 2013 on the large number of American movies shooting in the UK: “It’s probably not that great for British films shooting in the UK”, citing the fact that mid- to low-budget films would struggle to find crewmembers as all the talent in the country is working on American films instead of British ones.

The disappointing reality is that most of the top talent in the UK film industry tend to jump across the Atlantic at

industry as some of our brightest stars behind the camera have largely left the British film industry. In the case of acclaimed director Christopher Nolan, his most recent movie Dunkirk, a film about the British

The disappointing reality is that most of the top talent in the UK film industry tend to jump across the Atlantic at the first chance

army’s evacuation of France in WWII, secured funding from American production company Warner Brothers.

This is not to say that there isn’t a wealth of talent still working in Britain, and that the British film industry isn’t responsible for some undeniable cinematic classics. From recent hits like Sing Street, Submarine and Skyfall (which proves that a big budget international megahit can come out of Britain) to cinematic classics such as Lawrence of Arabia, A Clockwork Orange and Trainspotting.

There’s so many great actors, writers, directors and producers working in the UK that it’s extremely disappointing that the industry isn’t currently in a stronger position and is often reduced to playing a supporting role in Hollywood’s leading performance.

Directly comparing the British and American film industries could be seen as a wholly pointless exercise.

The simple fact is that in terms of quantity, global relevance and quality, the latter wins out comfortably.

The current landscape of British filmmaking can be a tad depressing, as often Britain’s resources are used merely to support the American blockbuster machine rather than to strike out and make original and exciting projects that this country can proud of. Until this isn’t the case the British film industry can only dream of competing with the juggernaut of a film industry that exists in America.

the first chance. British actors such as Christian Bale, Carey Mulligan and Rosamund Pike have all found greater success in American features than in their homeland; even British film and television darling Benedict Cumberbatch has taken the leap, starring in Marvel blockbuster Doctor Strange last year.

It’s not just British actors that have taken to the American film

£1.1bn worldwide gross of Skyfall

38

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Forge Press

Coffee Break facebook.com/forgetoday.com @forgetoday

press.coffeebreak@forgetoday.com

ARROWDOKU Want to make these two pages yours? Passionate about puzzles? Then why not apply to be our new Coffee Break

Arrowdoku follows the same rules as regular sudoku. The only twist is that the sum of the digits along an arrow must be equal to the number in the circle at the end of that arrow.

Editor! No prior experience is needed and anyone can apply.

We also have vacancies for the following positions: - Games Editor - Treasurer - Online News Editor If you are interested in any of the positions, come along to our EGM on Thursday 5th of October in Gallery Room 4 in the Students’ Union at 7pm. All you need to bring is a 30 second speech on why you think you’d be good at the role.

Contact luke.baldwin@forgetoday.com with any questions.

CONNECTION GRID ESCAPE

CROSS

DELETE

BRITAIN

Connection 1

SHIFT

LAT

INSERT

FORT

Connection 2

ALT

DANE

SPACE

CROW

Connection 3

ENTER

COCKTAIL

LONG

SCOTT

Connection 4

I've filled in one connection for you to explain how to play, best of luck!

SUDOKU Easy

Medium

Hard

AUTUMN FILM SCHEDULE

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - TICKETS £3.00, UNDER 12 £1.50 - AVAILABLE FROM THE SHEFFIELD STUDENTS’ UNION BOX OFFICE AND ONLINE AT TICKETS.SHEFFIELDSTUDENTSUNION.COM WEEKDAY SCREENINGS 19:30 | SAT & SUN SCREENINGS 15:30 & 19:30 Abo Aximus, ommo Neque dendit, simus

S AT 2 3 S E P SUN 8 OCT

THU 21 SEP FRI 6 OCT *FREE* SUN 15 OCT *FREE*

S AT 2 1 O C T

WED 20 SEP SUN 1 OCT S AT 1 4 O C T

S AT 7 O C T

TUE 19 SEP S AT 3 0 S E P * F R E E * FRI 13 OCT

Quis et officide nonniquia voluptu samus.

FRI 17 NOV WED 29 NOV

FRI 3 NOV

WED 15 NOV SUN 26 NOV

WED 1 NOV

SUN 12 NOV S AT 2 5 N O V

MON 30 OCT

S AT 1 1 N O V F R I 24 N O V

SUN 29 OCT

FRI 10 NOV

S AT 2 8 O C T

*HALLOWEEN SPECIAL* 23:30

WED 22 NOV

SUN 5 NOV SUN 19 NOV

FRI 27 OCT

S AT 4 N O V S AT 1 8 N O V

SUN 22 OCT

Review

Xxxxx Xxxxxxxxx

FRI 20 OCT

MON 18 SEP FRI 29 SEP WED 11 OCT

SUN 17 SEP S U N 24 S E P MON 9 OCT

* S U E N V I R O N M E N TA L F I L M F E S T I VA L *

FRI 22 SEP

Xxxxx Images

volectotat harit hillamet qui officatius

It’s always nice to see Nintendo catching up with the so-called ‘serious’ gaming machines

SUN 10 DEC *FREE*

S AT 9 D E C

FRI 8 DEC

WED 6 DEC

SUN 3 DEC

S AT 2 D E C

FRI 1 DEC

CHRISTMAS SCREENING TBC

Film Unit Cinema, Sheffield Students’ Union, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TG tickets.sheffieldstudentsunion.com •  /filmunit •  @filmunit • e: film.unit@sheffield.ac.uk • www.filmunit.org.uk A1 Schedule poster.indd 1

07/09/2017 15:56

Megan McGrath Development Officer

usabl

on ti

R

ev

e

#Re

Join the #ReusableRevolution

olu

find out how you can save waste and money in our su sheffieldsu.com/ reusablerevolution

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

41

Sport Thoughts “Harry Kane...the Machiavellian Premier League prince and the heir to Alan Shearer’s throne” Jay Jackson puts forward his case for why Harry Kane is currently the best striker in England’s top-flight.

Jay Jackson

I

t’s always been a clichéd debate in footballing circles, who is the best striker in the Premier League? The players may change, but the argument never goes away.

Cases can be made for several players in the current installment of this never ending saga: Sergio Aguero, the Argentine hawk who can turn on a sixpence and has the instinctive finishing reminiscent of Gabriel Batistuta; Romelu Lukaku, the man machine who bullies defences is like a young Didier Drogba and the new boys- Alexandre Lacazatte, the tricky Frenchman with wonderful footwork and an impressive goalscoring record. Alvaro Morata, the Real Madrid youth prospect come good who then, in typical Los Blancós fashion, was also sold.

However, there is one man who outshines them all and is, one day, destined to top the all-time Premier League goal scorers chart: Harry Kane.

Now, what stat do you open with to make the case for Kane? He’s outscored Cristiano Ronaldo in 2017 and he’s scored 80 Premier League goals faster than any of the aforementioned players.

He already has more Premier League hat-tricks than Robin van Persie or Didier Drogba. He’s scored more goals than van Nistelrooy, Shearer, Benzema and even Thierry Henry than when they were at the same age, despite Kane starting his first team career later than these players.

Some criticisms commonly levelled at Kane include a wrongly assigned lack of pace in comparison to other players. Whilst clearly he doesn’t have the blistering pace unleashed by Gabriel Jesus or Lacazette, he’s no slouch either, as proven by his first goal against Borussia Dortmund last week.

Kane is destined to top the alltime scorers chart The misconception that he goes missing in big games is simply libelous, considering he’s never not scored in a North London derby, has four goals in six games in his European career and is hitting the golden 1:2 ratio at international level for England.

Perhaps the most common reasoning for dismissing Kane is that a lot of people just can’t understand why he is so good.

Whether it is because he’s English, tall or has a relatively boring name, people will find any way to deny him his due praise, despite his back-toback Premier League golden boots.

No other player in the Premier League has possession of the full skillset that he has at his disposal,

Kane (pictured) captaining Tottenham Hotspur in an FA Cup match versus Colchester United

including a first touch that Romelu Lukaku simply dreams of.

He also has the strength and power of being 6’2 that a smaller player like Lacazette or Jesus simply can’t achieve. He possesses a passing range & instinctive linkup play that separates him from Aguero, who undisputedly matches Kane in finishing but withers in comparison to Kane’s work rate and ability to seamlessly transgress between playing the role of a traditional centre forward number 9 and a trequartista number 10.

If you’re still unconvinced perhaps the most astonishing fact of all is that he is scoring at the exact same rate as Lionel Messi at the same age (0.67 goals/per game). If that doesn’t convince you

just how special this man is, to have

No other player in the PL has possession of the full skillset Kane has available

Flickr - EnviroWarrior

must be a disgruntled Arsenal fan, bitter that he’s not one of your own.

The Hurricane, the lone-ranger, the one season wonder – this man has been called it all. Rooney, Shearer, Raul – he’s been compared to them all. In pure footballing terms he’s got it all and ultimately has the potential to go on and win it all.

Harry Kane: the best striker in the Premier League. Done.

DISCLAIMER: I’m not even a Spurs fan.

a comparable goal scoring record to arguably the best player ever to grace the beautiful game, then you

Laver Cup legacy could create a new dawn in tennis Tim Adams

O

ne of Rod Laver’s most famous quotes is that the time your game is most vulnerable is when you’re

ahead.

Tennis has enjoyed a sensational return to the worldwide public gallery with the renaissance of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, arguably the two greatest male tennis players of all time.

So, after scaling the mountain, it could be difficult to stay at the peak of the sport. While the Grand Slams and Davis Cup provide media attention on an extensive scale, tennis could become vulnerable in the next few years because of its current excellent viewing figures and popularity.

It is then perhaps fitting that the man who was so aware of the dangers of complacency on the court is on the trophy looking to rebrand the sport itself, alongside

tennis greats to concentrate on the future health of the game.

When the upper echelons of the tennis world spoke to Federer’s management company TEAM 8 last year about the idea of a Ryder Cup-

15-9 to Team Europe

over Team World

style tennis tournament, a few murmurs of doubt reverberated around the room.

The size and scale of a project like this could be an enormous risk.

Organising a venue, the players and coaches was one aspect, but creating immediate public appeal, not just in the stadium but across

the world, would be another.

Publicity in tennis is at its greatest in the singles game, from Federer and Nadal to Serena Williams and Garbine Muguruza. Elite players are so used to playing for themselves for large amounts of prize money.

Apart from the Davis Cup and the Olympics, the sport’s popularity stems from its individualism.

It’s why the Laver Cup is a risk, but tennis’s new franchise may just propel itself into a wellknown sporting brand. Due to the competitive nature of the players in the singles game, it’s remarkably refreshing and somewhat surreal to see them fight for each other on the same side of the court.

There’s a saying that in team sports once you play for the name on the front of the jersey people will start remembering the name on the back. The Laver Cup has created that exact opposite effect, shifting the brand away from the players and towards the team they

represent.

To an extent we saw this at the side of the court as well, Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe leading Team Europe and Team USA respectively,

The credibility of the Laver Cup may depend on the best players recreating memories of a rivalry that inspired a generation of fans over 30 years ago. Both understood the importance of the team effort, and no doubt knew the significance of victory.

The fact that a myriad of tennis stars past and present became the centre piece of the event proved

though that the credibility of the Laver Cup might depend on all the best-qualified players making themselves available in the future.

The tournament takes place just two weeks after the US Open and it would not be surprising to see a few of the world’s best decide to rest.

When the decision to create the tournament took place, it was vital to the organisers that not only the inaugural event would be a success but that the legacy would influence up-and-coming players to take part.

Inspiring a generation of players will be vital for tennis if the game wants to expand in the future.

Redeveloping the structure of the sport is impossible but moulding its shape through tournaments like the Laver Cup could become an ingenious legacy for decades to come.

42

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Substitute Mark Duffy rises off the bench to put Sheffield United 3-2 ahead at Hillsborough a minute after Sheffield Wednesday level

Derby delight as United steamroll Owls in thriller Adam May

S

heffield United put in a commanding away performance to claim a 4-2 win over Sheffield Wednesday in the 141st Steel City Derby.

You wait five and a half years for the next instalment of the Steel City Derby and it serves up six goals. Two in the space of 12 minutes, even.

United were the beneficiaries of that as they raced into a twogoal lead to put their established Championship neighbours to the sword early on.

Hillsborough was silenced as strikes from John Fleck and Leon Clarke put Chris Wilder’s men ahead.

Gary Hooper then changed the complexion of the game with his strike before half-time and it forced United, who looked assured while sitting on their two-goal cushion, to dig deep and showcase their gritty defending.

It was then over to the substitutes.

Lucas Joao, brought on at a time where the Owls sensed they could push on, fired Wednesday level before United’s Mark Duffy restored their lead one minute later in a rapid change of events.

Clarke then wrapped it up with a tidy finish into the corner to give the Blades their first Steel City Derby win since 2009.

With a selection headache consuming Wilder before kickoff, Blades skipper Billy Sharp, was forced to settle for a place on the bench while Kieron Freeman,

withdrawn during the 1-0 defeat against Norwich last week, missed out altogether.

It was former Wednesday striker Clarke then tasked with leading the line, as youngster David Brooks made his second successive League start, meaning Ched Evans – only 60-70% fit and awaiting an operation – dropped out of the first 11 and onto the substitutes’ bench.

Ross Wallace, who netted the winner at home to Brentford two games ago, returned to the starting line-up in place of Daniel Pudil in what was a raucous atmosphere.

The game took only three minutes to explode into life, although it sent the home supporters withering in their seats as Hillsborough fell silent.

A marauding run from Brooks led to a free-kick just outside of Wednesday’s area and with great conviction John Fleck, who signed a four-year contract extension at Bramall Lane earlier in the week, curled the set-piece past the stranded Kieren Westwood at his near post to send the travelling Unitedites into delirium.

It was well worth the five and a half year wait.

Wednesday settled but only really threatened with a couple of half chances and soon found themselves 2-0 down, and with from one of their former employees too.

The Wednesday defence that’s kept one clean-sheet all season stood still as Clarke beat the offside trap, latching on to an up-field ball

by Enda Stevens, to coolly slot a

left-foot finish past the on-rushing Westwood. A dream start for the Blades who continued their fine start to Championship life.

The Owls, up against a team built on the framework of hard-work,

‘09

since last United derby win

determination and an at times unbreakable togetherness, couldn’t battle past the visitors and were largely camped inside their own half.

Their defence looked shaky against the pace of Brooks and the unpredictability of Clarke, and United were all well deserving of their two-goal advantage, with Jamal Blackman rarely tested in United’s net.

A rasping drive from Jack Hunt threatened to halve United’s lead on the stroke of half-time but a strong header from skipper Paul Coutts sent it over the bar.

Maybe that was the kick-start they needed as on the stroke of halftime they pulled one back.

Some tidy work by Wallace on the by-line allowed Gary Hooper to prod home his fifth goal in five games to open the game up going into the second-half.

Not only did the goal appear to

Forge Press

Sportimage

give the players a bit of a boost but it rejuvenated the crowd as Wednesday ramped up the pressure early doors with a long-range effort from Reach deflecting into the gloves of Blackman.

The introduction of Joao in place of the ineffective David Jones showing Carlos Carvalhal’s intentions.

For all of the hosts’ possession, though, Clarke could’ve wrapped up the three points but lacked composure at the most crucial of times, ballooning an effort over the bar when unmarked inside the box.

To show just how far United have come under Wilder, a self-confessed Blades addict who watched his first United derby in 1980, the Blades sacrificed a defender for the tricky Duffy, an integral part in their titlewinning season last term.

The bold move was momentarily outdone, however, when Joao thundered in an effort on 66 minutes that caused a sold-out Hillsborough to erupt.

Goals change games and it certainly made the stadium rock. It didn’t last long.

Wilder witnessed his gamble pay off as Duffy arrowed a shot in front of the travelling Blades fans to dent the spirits of Wednesday again. 3-2 to the Blades. Their lead regained through a fine solo goal.

Clarke then added gloss to the win and put a result beyond Wednesday as he dinked a shot over Westwood, capping off a fine performance that tested every element of their squad.

It was, in some ways, the perfect away performance. With all of the finances behind Wednesday, United refused to be fazed and put in a captivating and clinical performance.

Wilder, who celebrated his 50th birthday the day before, oozed passion as he faced the press following the final whistle.

It was the sort of pride that people now tend to asscociate with last

season’s League One winners.

He said: “It was all on today. Don’t tell me that anyone who supports both clubs didn’t think that this was just about three points or league positions or whatever and that it’s a long old season.

“This wasn’t that, it was everything.

“To lead my team out in a fantastic atmosphere it was a special experience.

“It was a wonderful performance in every aspects of the game.”

His opposite number cut a frustrated figure at full-time but was keen to take responsility for his team’s capitulation.

Head Coach, Carlos Carvalhal, said: “In this kind of environment, when you lose after a few minutes, it makes the team more nervous.

“We did mistakes after this that we usually never do.

“The beginning of the game gave this kind of instability to our team.

“Second-half we come back very strong, we achieve 2-2.

“The mistakes we had is my responsibility.

“I want all the pressure to me, I don’t want any pressure on my players.”

Sheffield Wednesday: Westwood; Hunt, Lees (C), van Aken, Jones (Joao, 46’); Wallace (Butterfield, 78’), Lee, Bannan, Reach; Hooper, Fletcher (Rhodes, 68’). Subs not used: Wildsmith, Palmer, Nuhiu, Pudil.

Sheffield United: Blackman; Basham, O’Connell, Wright (Duffy, 62’); Baldock, Fleck, Coutts (C), CarterVickers, Stevens; Brooks (Lundstram, 84’); Clarke. Subs not used: Moore, Sharp, Lafferty, Evans, Carruthers.

HT Score: 1-2 FT Score: 2-4 Attendance: 32,839

Forge Press

Wednesday 4 October 2017

43

Berlin breakthrough for Uni of Sheffield’s Bayton Josh Taylor A University of Sheffield athlete is on the cusp of being a top 10 ranked runner in the UK after an impressive performance representing England at the Berlin marathon.

Steve Bayton ran the race on September 24 and finished with a time of 2:19:41, beating his personal best by around three minutes.

The time helped him finish 45th out of 43,852 participants who braved the 42 km race which takes the runners through the streets of Berlin, making it one of the largest citywide races.

On his performance in Berlin, Bayton said: “The race for me was a huge success as I really wanted to break the 2 hour 20 barrier, which is a significant milestone for me.

“The conditions weren’t the best and a few errors cost me but I’m over the moon.”

As a result of an impressive race Bayton has now moved up to 12th in the UK rankings and another good performance could see him

move into the top 10.

Bayton is also a holder of a Level 2 Elite Sport Performance Scheme which is reserved for top drawer athletes who have represented their country and wish to study in Sheffield.

“Being ranked 12th in the UK is a really proud moment for me as so many people run in marathons every year,” he added.

“It’s nice to know that the hard work in training and the sacrifices made are worth it.”

The athlete has also run marathons in Manchester where

Being ranked 12th in the UK is a really proud moment for me

2:42:37 and finished 33rd. Both of these outings were in 2016 making Berlin his third marathon in the past year.

Now Bayton is planning to build on this performance and hopes to be selected for England again.

He continued: “The plan for the near future is to recover and have some downtime, preferably with some pints, before preparing for the cross country season as well as running some fast road times.

“Being selected for England and going to the Berlin marathon again next year is the ultimate goal.”

45th out of 43,852

he set his last personal best of 2:22:34 helping him finish 1st, and in Toronto where he set a time of

Steve Bayton being put through his paces

Steve Bayton

Captain’s Corner | Tennis Forge Sport Team

T

his issue we interview 3rd year economics student Tom Dyakowski and Natalie Bacon, zooology students who are the captians of the University of Sheffield’s Tennis team.

What are you most looking forward to in the next year?

Tom: I think definitely the beginning of the season is one of things I’m most looking forward to, meeting the teams at trials and meeting the squads at the start of BUCS. Natalie: I’m looking forward to when the season starts again in early October. That’s when all the main competition starts, and when the sides come out it’s great to know the team a bit better and it’s nice as it makes the team more exclusive.

The team is close and gets on well, but Varsity is the best time of year What inspired you to play tennis?

T: I got into the sport because my brother played it, but I played tons of sports when I was younger and being extremely competitive I just decided that whichever one I was best as was the one I wanted to play.

N: Both my brothers played when I was younger and I didn’t want to be the left-out sibling, so I wanted

The 2017/18 University of Sheffield Tennis club pose at last years Ice Hockey matchup at Varsity University of Sheffield Tennis Facebook

to join in to what they were doing.I have not stopped playing since I was about five . There was jealousy of my siblings at the start but I love it now!

there but your friends outside of tennis and all over Sheffield come along, enjoy it and support you, so it’s the best time of the year.

Who was your biggest role model?

N: I get pretty nervous, but it’s always excited nervous. Varsity is honestly one of the best times of the year as everyone comes together; teams, social members and other sports come to support you. Varsity is such a communal and amazing atmosphere.

T: As with everyone else it was Roger Federer. He’s amazing on court as a player and off court as a person, personality wise, so it would have to be him.

N:- I like Sabine Lisicki, although she’s a bit of a rogue choice! She just smiles on court and genuinely looks like she loves the sport which you don’t often see in tennis.

What’s it like to wear the Black and Gold at BUCS and then Varsity?

T: Throughout the year competing in BUCS, the team is close and gets on well, but Varsity is the best time of the year. Not only your team are

Best experience of Varsity?

T: In my first year at university the boys took home all the first and second team points and the girls took the first team points. That was the first time in five years that we took all the points. So it just helped us win it for another year!

N: It was when Ashley (Foster) and Danielle (Smith) finished their last

match at Varsity a few years ago to get us the point. That atmosphere was just amazing so that was the highlight as everyone was so happy.

What’s it like balancing course work and tennis?

T: At the start of the year we don’t have much work and normally our matches finish before that starts, apart from Varsity. So during our main summer exam season we have fewer matches, so I guess I do less work throughout the year and more work in the summer. Cramming effectively!

N: It’s not too bad as you do the sport you love, so it’s not having to balance it necessarily, it’s what you like to do in your free time. If I’m ever bogged down with work I don’t find it much of a struggle really.

Have you got a message to freshers wanting to join tennis?

T: Definitely come along and get involved. You don’t have to be good at tennis or have played it before. There was a girl who joined last year who was one of the most integrated people at the club, as she absolutely loved it socially, not just for the tennis. It’s all about meeting new people and discovering new opportunities.

N: Come along and try it out and do it. If you don’t try then you don’t know and it’s a great sport and a great bunch of people to get involved with.

If you would like to get involved with the Tennis society visit their social media. facebook.com/UoSTennisClub @UoSTennisClub

44

Wednesday 4 October 2017

|

facebook.com/forgetoday

Adam May

@forgetoday

Welcome to the second issue of Forge Press for this academic year.

It’s been a busy couple of weeks in Sheffield sport since we last went to print. I’m sure none of you reading this will need to be reminded of the enthralling Steel City Derby that took place on 24th September. The city came to an absolute standstill to witness Sheffield United terrorise Sheffield Wednesday, stunning a capacity Hillsborough crowd to romp

Sport press.sport@forgetoday.com

Head of Sport

to a 4-2 win.

You’ve probably also seen a video of Wednesday’s head coach, Carlos Carvalhal, scrunching up a £20 note doing the rounds on social media. He has been taking the brunt of criticism this week after his squad’s silence following the debacle and their 1-0 defeat to Birmingham that followed.

In other news, we celebrate the golfing success of Yorkshire’s women’s team as they pipped Gloucestershire to the English Women’s County Finals title.

Forge Press

Our team here at Forge Sport also met with the uni’s sports captains for the upcoming year and we aim to continue our relationship with these to improve our coverage across a range of disciplines and clubs.

We therefore have our first official Captain’s Corner feature - turn to page 47 for a read of that.

Enjoy this issue and, if you fancy joining our team, please drop us an email at press.sport@forgetoday. com.

Brooks earns Wales call-up for World Cup Qualifiers Adam May

S

Back row (from left) Nicola Slater, Hannah Holden, Charlotte Heath, Melissa Wood. Front row (from left) Mia Eales-Smith, Olivia Winning, Megan Lockett Leaderboard Photography

Yorkshire win English Counties’ Crown in nailbiting finish Adam May

Y

orkshire were crowned English County Championship winners on the last day of the competition in dramatic fashion.

After some fierce competition, it all came down to the last putt on the final green as Yorkshire snuck ahead to reach the top of the English Women’s County Finals table on September 22.

Gloucester came out on top in the match last year between the two teams, which was also decided on the final day, but they missed out on top spot by a single point this time around.

Despite this, Gloucestershire’s Andra Knight cut a proud figure after falling at the final hurdle. “It was a fabulous match, played in a great spirit,” she said.

“I am so proud of them all, they were brilliant.”

Against a Gloucester side who had won all four fixtures in the week leading up to the finale, Yorkshire battled and were fully rewarded when they pipped Gloucester by a point after being held to a half by Buckinghamshire the day before.

Gloucestershire attempted to derail Yorkshire when Alex Giles drew the two teams level as she struck back with her 2/1 win.

Yorkshire’s Megan Lockett also won 2/1 immediately after to put her side ahead again before Caley McGinty held on for Gloucestershire, defeating Mia EalesSmith two up in a game which featured two players whose combined age was just 30.

At four points apiece everything hinged on the final game between Yorkshire’s Nicola Slater and Gloucestershire’s Alex Saunders. The scoring was all square with only three holes to play but crucially Slater won the par three 16th after Saunders’ putt lipped out.

They halved the 17th with a birdie and then both went through the back of the

It was played in a great spirit. I am proud of them all, they were all so brilliant 18th in two. Saunders was further away but fashioned an exquisite chip to within six inches of the hole. Slater’s downhill putt from the fringe was also perfectly judged and rolled equally close for her one up lead.

On their 13th Championship win, Yorkshire’s Olivia Winning, an international who has won the Scottish open title twice and helped England to European gold said: “This is the only one I’ve ever wanted, I’d give up all my other wins for this.”

13th

heffield United winger, David Brooks, has been called up to the Wales senior squad for their World Cup Qualifiers in October.

Brooks impressed during his display in the Steel City Derby, which Sheffiel United won 4-2, and caught the eye of Wales manager, Chris Coleman.

Brooks, 20, played for England U20s in the summer but has pledged his future playing career to Wales.

He will join up with the squad that features the likes of Gareth Bale, Ben Woodburn and Aaron Ramsey for their World Cup Qualifying matches against Georgia and Republic of Ireland in October.

Coleman told BBC Sport: “David Brooks has earned it, he has been great for

[Wales U21 manager] Robert Page. He was excellent for Sheffield United in the derby,” Coleman said.

“He’s shown great promise for some years, luckily for us he has chosen Wales. I am sure that has caused some ripples over the Severn Bridge.

“But it is a feather in the cap for our system, our structure, that David is here. He has earned his chance.

“I have met him, we had a coffee last month, we had a good chat. It’s not like he’s meeting me for the first time.

“I would not be afraid to put him on, but I don’t feel obliged to cap him unless it suits us.”

Wales currently sit second in Qualifying Group D, four points behind Serbia in top and a point above Republic of Ireland.

title win for Yorkshire

Meanwhile, Barclay Brown, from Hallamshire, has been selected for the England Golf Boys’ Squad for 2017/18, compiled from ten of the country’s most promising young golfers.

Brown, 16, was in England’s winning teams at the European Young Masters and in the U16 international against Spain. He was eighth in the Peter McEvoy Trophy, 11th in the Fairhaven Trophies and 15th in the Scottish U16s.

Brown has made the squad for the second year running and is a member of Hallamshire Golf Club.

He recently came 75th in an overseas competition and, with a handicap of +1.4, he’s a bright talent in the game and is one to look out for in the future.

Results service: Sunday September 24 Sheffield Wednesday 2-4 Sheffield United Wednesday September 27 Sheffield United 2-0 Wolves Birmingham City 1-0 Sheffield Wednesday Saturday September 30 Nottingham Forest 2-1 Sheffield United Sunday October 1 Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 Leeds United