3rd MARCH 2014/ ISSUE 16 FREE
MANCHESTER’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER
Feature: Pirate Party interview
P8-9
Fashion: A Mancunian in Paris
P16-17
WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Photo special: ‘Reclaim the Night’
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Meh-lection fever sweeps Students’ Union Exec Team Michael Williams News Editor
Nominations for Executive team positions closed last Friday after a last-ditch effort by the Union to drum up interest. The nomination results see two current Executive officers, the Community Officer and Education Officer, standing for two different £16.6k positions this year. The nomination period was marred with a lack of interest from the student populace, and two positions, General Secretary and Community Officer, were uncontested until as late as last Tuesday. The promotional techniques used by the Union also came under fire, as staff desperately tried to encourage students to stand. A status posted by the Manchester Students’ Union Facebook page read, “Fancy earning 16.6k next year? Or taking a paid year out of your studies? No interview and no experience needed! STAND”. Similar messages, uploaded to the Union’s Twitter page, prompted negative replies. “Shame this is how you’re trying to get people to run,” tweeted former University of Nottingham Exec officer Elizabeth Goddard. “I know. Hence the retweet, made me cringe,” echoed one student on Twitter, who is also running for every position available, except Women’s Officer. Current Exec staff also attempted to per-
suade students to run. Current Diversity Officer Omar Aljuhani posted on Facebook, “Even if you are not sure whether to run or not... just fill the form and decide later.” The lack of female representation during nominations was of particular concern to current Women’s Officer, Tabz O’Brien-Butcher. “There are currently no women running for the positions of Diversity, Campaigns or Activities in the Manchester SU elections,” Tabz posted on her Facebook page last Monday. “If you know a woman who would be great in one of these roles, give her a message and let her know that you think she’d be fab!” Eventually every position was contested. Eleven students are running for General Secretary, and nine students are running for Diversity Officer. Community Officer and Wellbeing Officer both received seven candidates each, while the Campaigns & Citizenship Officer and Activities & Development Officer roles saw five and six candidates apply, respectively. Finally, four students are standing to be Education Officer, and four for Women’s Officer. Liberal Democrat and Withington MP John Leech was also nominated for a position, but rejected after proof of his “student status” could not be provided. Voting for the Executive positions opens on the 14th March.
Positions were uncontested until as late as last Tuesday. Photo: Michael Williams
02 : NEWS
ISSUE 16 / 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Highlights
Arts & Culture:
Review; Popup Whitworth
A man is serious condition and another remained in hospital for treatment after a car crash saw a red Lexus overturned on Oxford Road last Tuesday. Photo: Michael Williams
Page 24
Picture of the week
Film:
Matthew McConaughey’s career revival Page 18
Food & Drink:
American pancakes Page 23
Cambridge dons call for more female professors Aidan Gregory News Editor
Over 50 academics from the University of Cambridge have called on the government to do more to ensure that female academics are able to rise up the promotion ladder. The proposals will soon be published in The Times Higher Education Supplement. They claim that the selection process for higher positions in academia is unfairly biased towards men, because it relies on too narrow a set of criteria, such as research grants and publications.
They go on to argue that, “a broader, more inclusive approach to success and promotion, where other academic contributions, including teaching, administration and outreach work are valued, would make it easier for women to advance,” Despite 45 per cent of academics being female, at the moment, just 22 per cent of professors in the UK are women. Yet more women go to university in the UK than men. In the most recent UCAS applications cycle, over 58 per cent of applicants were female. Professor Athene
Donald, a well known campaigner for gender equality at Cambridge University, said, “Women seem to value a broader spectrum of work-based competencies that do not flourish easily under the current system. “There will always be hardcore metrics for academics, such as grants, or prizes won, and books and papers published, and they are important. But there are opportunities to reward and embed different types of success, such as teaching, outreach and departmental support.”
Deputy Editor: Harriet Hill-Payne
Games:
Preview; Titanfall Page 15
Sub-Editors: George Bailey, Jennifer Grimshaw & Eleanor Muffitt
Visit Our Website www.mancunion.com Facebook: The Mancunion Twitter: @THEMANCUNION Editor: Jonathan Breen editor@mancunion.com Postal address: Univerity of Manchester Students’ Union, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PR Phone (0161) 275 2933
Man in serious condition after car overturns tion and another remains in hospital for treatment after a car crash on Oxford Road. The collision, between a red Lexus and a silver Toyota Avensis taxi, saw the Lexus completely overturned with two people trapped inside. The Lexus passengers were both cut free from the wreckage by fire services, and the 24-year-old driver was taken to the Manchester Royal Infirmary where he continues to receive treatment and is said to be in a serious condi-
beauty@mancunion.com Food & Drink Editors: Ben Walker & Maddy Hubbard foodanddrink@mancunion.com Film Editors: Sophie James, Robbie Davidson & Angus Harrison
News Reporters: Inez Dawoodjee, Anna Philips, Charlie Spargo, Samantha Schiffman
Features Editor: Sam Dumitriu
News Web Editor: Dan Harold
Games Editor: Alasdair Preston
Opinion Editors: Alice Rigby, Charlotte Green & Joe Anthony
games@mancunion.com
Fashion Editors: Susie Coen & Marie Yates fashion@mancunion.com BeautyEditor: Haylee Wells
The driver of the taxi, 48,
A man is in a serious condi-
News Editors: Michael Williams, Pippa AllenKinross & Aidan Gregory news@mancunion.com
opinion@mancunion.com
tion.
Michael Williams News Editor
film@mancunion.com features@mancunion.com
Lifestyle Editors: Moya Crockett, Isabelle Dann, Beth Currall & Lauren Arthur lifestyle@mancunion.com Music Editors: Tom Ingham, Patrick Hinton & Phoebe Clarke
suffered fractured ribs and also remains in hospital for treatment. The incident happened at around 10.35am outside the Kilburn building, and police are appealing for witnesses. Police Constable Pete Cunningham, from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said, “We are investigating the circumstances leading up to this collision and are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to call us as soon as possible.”
music@mancunion.com Sport Editors: Andrew Georgeson, Thomas Dowler & Thomas Turner Sports Reporters: James Eatwell & Jonathan Roberts sport@mancunion.com Theatre Editor: Stephanie Scott theatre@mancunion.com Web Editor: Jennifer Ho webed@mancunion.com Photography Editor: Peter Chinnock photography@mancunion.com Photography team: Patrycja Marczewska, Joshua Brown & Cil Barnett-Neefs
ISSUE 16 / 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
NEWS : 03
Exec ignore voters, nix paid Mancunion editor position
Michael Williams News Editor
The full-time Editor position of The Mancunion has been indefinitely postponed – despite the fact the position was passed into policy by an All-Student Vote. Mancunion staff were not informed, even though discussions about the change were held by the Exec Team as early as November last year. The change was also omitted from a rationale document outlining Union cuts forwarded to The Mancunion. General Secretary Grace Skelton defended the oversight. “As the salaried editor role does not exist, it does not constitute as a cut [sic],” she said. Mention of the decision was also absent from all Exec Committee meeting minutes, despite the fact that The Mancunion was specifically discussed at length in a meeting on Monday 18th November regarding a separate issue. The editor of The Mancunion was to become a full-time paid position after 68 per cent of students who voted were in favour. The motion was passed into policy on the 17th May last year, and remains policy for three years. The editor of The Mancunion was a paid, sabbatical position – similar to the Exec Team roles – until September 2012. The current editor, as was his predecessor, is a student volunteer juggling the demands of a third year degree and editor
duties. This will now continue to next year and potentially beyond. “We are committed to implementing the wishes of our students and with the budget changes that the Students’ Union has made, I wholeheartedly believe that next year we should be in a position to implement the policy,” said Grace. The Students’ Union has been forced to make cuts after it was revealed they have a budget deficit of over half a million pounds. “Due to the current financial difficulties faced by the Students’ Union, the Trustee Board, with assistance from the senior staff team, have had to make serious budget cuts,” said Grace. “We have done this as fairly as possible and have made savings across the entire Union, including reducing departmental budgets and voluntary staff redundancies.” Richard Crook, last year’s Mancunion editor, said that he was “not remotely surprised” at the ruling. “This was voted in, plain and simple,” he said. “There’s a great irony that a group of students campaign against national cuts to reduce a deficit, and then do the exact same thing at their institution.” Other Mancunion alumni, some of whom have gone to work at some of the world’s leading media institutions, expressed their shock at the Union’s decision. Ian King, The Times Business & City Editor, said, “It was
disappointing to learn that the Students’ Union has decided against having a paid editor for The Mancunion. No other post communicates with the student body or the wider populace to the same extent. It is of immense value not just to the Union but to the University itself.” Jennie Agg, commissioning editor at the Daily Mail and Mancunion editor 2009/10, said that the decision to take away the paid editor role “sounds like a mistake”. “Why would anyone make the case for less student opportunity and activity? Not making it a paid position also risks excluding students who have to work parttime to fund their degree,” she said. “A union is supposed to be about representation. You wouldn’t get rid of the general secretary or president because a permanent staff member was more efficient - the same applies for a paid student editor.” Girish Gupta, a News Editor under Ms Agg in 2009/10 and now a celebrated New York Times and Reuters freelance foreign correspondent, echoed her sentiments on the importance of the position being full-time. “I struggle to see how the paper can continue to be both that springboard into journalism and, more importantly, a worthwhile read for students without an editor able to dedicate themselves to it full time,” he said. Withington Councillor Chris Paul, who also worked on the newspaper during his time at the
Three women injured after Baa Bar assault Anna Phillips News Reporter Two women have been left with broken jaws and one with a broken nose after an attack outside Baa Bar, Fallowfield. One of the women was also knocked unconscious during the assault. At around 3a.m. on Saturday 22nd February a group of women and men were assaulted in a taxi outside the bar in Fallowfield. The men allegedly attempted to get into the taxi with the group, and became violent when they refused to let them in. The men had previously been refused entry to Baa Bar. An offender assaulted one
of the women inside the taxi, leaving her unconscious. When other members of the group tried to intervene, they too were attacked by the men. Of the five people who were assaulted, one woman was left with a broken jaw and extensive face swelling, while another suffered a suspected broken jaw. A third woman suffered a broken nose and the two men were also left with cuts. The offenders then left the scene and started up Wilbraham Road, where one member smashed a window with a metal pole. Detective Sergeant Gareth Davies, said, “Grown men attacking women with
such violence and in such an unprovoked manner is particularly unpalatable and a completely cowardly act and we are working hard to identify the men responsible. “Three of them – all women – have suffered particularly nasty injuries. “I want to reassure the public that we are following a number of lines of enquiry but if anyone has any information that can help our investigation we would be keen to hear from you.” Anyone who witnessed the attack, or has any other information are urged to call the police on 0161 856 4423, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Next year’s editor will , once again, be a student juggling paper responsibilities with their degree Photo: Jonathan Breen University, was shocked at the Union’s decision. “I was a member of the Mancunion collective for four years, with the team winning Guardian NUS paper of the year twice. We couldn’t have done that without a full time editor,” he said. “In these days of huge fees and small or non existent grants it is a
lot to ask anyone to sacrifice their studies and, in effect, pay to be editor. “I know it’s tough because we’ve had to make big savings at the Town Hall. But I hope the Union will have a re-think and change that.” The General Secretary, however, placed less importance on a full-time role.
“I am disappointed that there will not be a paid editor in role [sic] in September 2014 to maintain the high journalistic standards of The Mancunion,” she said. “However, I am confident that the current system of voluntary editorship will ensure the quality of the publication continues.”
Humanities faculty suggests drastic grading system change Charlie Spargo News Reporter The University of Manchester’s Faculty of Humanities have proposed introducing a revised marking scheme intended to be “clearer and more transparent,” turning away from the c lassic 100-point system. The suggestion, still in its early stages, would see students instead being assessed by a 14-level system, with 0 equalling a very low fail and 14 a very high first. The final grades, rather than being in the long-running undergraduate class system, would be presented in a way resembling the American system, with grades awarded ranging from A+ to F. While the Faculty is still asking
for students’ opinions on the subject, there is some suggestion that it could be introduced in September 2014 to students from all years. The idea to change the system comes after dissatisfaction from students and staff alike over the marking discrepancy between quantitatively marked exams in many modules of subjects such as economics, and qualitatively marked exams that are sat in philosophy and others. Many find the generally accepted view that essays and written answer exams are rarely given a grade above 80 per cent unfair in comparison to the possibility of getting 100 per cent in exams such as mathematics or economics. This can be especially noticeable for those studying for
joint honours degrees, where the result for one module may be drastically higher than for others purely due to its nature of examination. However, joint honours students may not welcome the proposed change. Many students’ subjects span faculties and having different grading systems for different subjects could complicate matters more. Many are concerned that concentrating 100 intervals down to 14 would hinder discernibility over how students perform, and that students currently in their first and second years would graduate with a potentially confusing range of grades. The faculty said that “nothing has yet been decided.”
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
04 : News
Pakistan and Islamic Stop international societies hold week to fee hikes, demand ‘tackle misconceptions’ 180 students’ unions Pakistan Week Fee increases officer of the NUS, said, “The
for international students condemned as ‘unfair’, by NUS officer Aidan Gregory News Editor In an open letter to Vince Cable, David Willets, and ViceChancellors, over 180 students’
unpredictable
increase
duration of a three year course.
in
Unlike with UK and EU
fees is unfair and exploits this
students,
group of students. They put
no restriction on the amount
the academic success of many
of money they can charge in
international students at risk
international
each year.
Some
“International
universities
student
universities
have
fees. always
students
increase fees in line with
already pay astronomical fees
inflation, but they are under no
for the privilege of studying
legal obligation to do so.
here. They are an important
Sebastiaan
Debrouwere,
part of the social, cultural
president of Kings College
and
of
London Students’ Union, in the
university life and should not
academic
make-up
last year has led a successful
be treated as cash cows.”
fight against fee increases of 15
The NUS has demonstrated
per cent. He has called on all
unions across the UK have
through
called for in-course fee hikes
that “each year up to 175,000
for international students to be
international
abolished.
our campuses find their fees
are
increase often without notice”,
may
and that each year over half of
international
universities withhold details of
from coming to the UK, or
fees to international students.
force students to drop out,”
A petition has also been launched online. Over
half
a
international
million students
currently study in the UK - and
own
research
students
research
has
universities to support the NUS campaign.
in
“Unpredictable fee increases not
only
also
unfair,
dissuade
they many
students
also
Debrouwere said. “As an SU, we
with over 8,000, the University
showed that students are one
try to make sure our university
of Manchester has one of the
third more likely to consider
is
largest populations.
dropping out if their fees go
institution.”
Daniel Stevens, international
The
its
up by more than £1000 in the
a
fair
and
accessible
and Community Week aim to address negative preconceptions of Pakistani and Muslim students
Haider Saleem News Reporter
In a bid to challenge stereotypes of the Pakistani community and culture, the University of Manchester’s Pakistan society launched ‘Pakistan Week’, this week. According to Emad Hanif, current president of the Society, the event aims to “tackle misconceptions”. Pakistan Week will have various activities, ranging from a live concert, debate on government policy to a football tournament. A member of the society said, “The Pakistan society have so
many negative misconceptions, from poverty, extremism, corruption that it makes this week necessary. “We want to show we are as welcoming as anyone else. We have a live music concert on Monday for free which will showcase Pakistani culture and will also host performances from other societies.” Next week, the Islamic society is launching ‘Community Week’ to raise money for a Children’s Oncology Unit and to promote what Islam has to offer to the community. Organisers of Community Week, Zubair Ahmad and Roheen Khan, said, “The Islamic society launched Community Week to promote [Islamic Society] activities on campus and to promote integration in the wider Manchester community.” The event will have a marquee set up outside University Place all week to give people a chance to talk to Islamic Society (ISoc) members and raise money
for charity. The money raised will go to cancer research and treatment. ISoc members said this event was necessary to address misconceptions about Muslim students on campus and around the UK. They also hoped people would integrate with ISoc better after this event, which they have described as a “long term project” to tackle problems that society members face. Pakistan Week and Community Week come at a time when there has been an unprecedented rise in xenophobia and Islamophobia (anti-Muslim prejudice) within the UK. Tell Mama, a group which monitors anti-Muslim incidents, has reported that the number of anti-Muslim incidents are expected to rise to 1,000 by the end of March. The full agenda of both Pakistan Week and Community Week can be found on the societies’ official Facebook pages.
CELEBRATING
DIVERSITY CULTURAL NIGHT TUESDAY 11 MARCH
Academy 2, Students’ Union 6 pm - 11 pm
THE WORLD CUP SATURDAY 15 MARCH Armitage Centre 12 pm - 5 pm ( 5 A-side)
For more information visit:
manchesterstudentsunion.com/globalweek
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
NEWS : 05
Students’ Union exec officer calls for new North Campus bus route
Diversity Officer Omar Aljuhani believes that the University is failing to provide a ‘great student experience’ for students living on the north campus Aidan Gregory News Editor The Students’ Union executive is in talks with Transport for Greater Manchester to create a new bus route from Withington to the North Campus. The campaign to introduce the new route is the brainchild of Diversity Officer Omar Aljuhani. It aims to improve the provision of transport for students living and studying on the north campus, and to ensure student safety and disabled access. In an interview with The Mancunion, Aljuhani outlined his reasons for demanding the new bus route. “I was a student in the north campus for the last four years. I’d been living in different accommodation on the campus, and [I] found that the north campus is really disconnected with the south campus. Transportation is an obvious problem.” Aljuhani also explained that he does not see the current situation as being fair for disabled students living on the
north campus. He added, “University is a full experience, and one of the university’s targets is to provide a ‘great student experience’, and I feel that the North Campus has been completely disengaged from that. “Logically, transport should be provided by the University, not even just from the station to the Students’ Union, but to Fallowfield as well. Am I asking for a lot? I don’t think so. “The 147 is not doing its job.” Aljuhani has also launched a petition on change.org. The petition has attracted a large number of positive comments, and currently has 227 signatures. One supporter, Roxanne Neall, argued that “as a student at North Campus I know that many of the students who study there live in Fallowfield etc and take a convoluted route to Sackville Street, a bus route would just make sense for the students. Piccadilly Station would also be convenient for all Manchester residents as it would be much shorter than the other options at the moment.”
Over 200 people have signed a petition which supports the effort to improve disabled access and the student experience for students living on the North Campus, by introducing a new bus route. Photo - Wikimedia Commons Anna Thorne wrote in support, “I want to stay safe when getting the bus to and from university and it will make travelling a lot more convenient and quicker.” Another student, Arplan Saluja, wrote “I live near Sackville Street so this initiative would prove very beneficial for me as I spend a lot of time in Alan Gilbert Learning Commons till late and I will not have to walk alone in the dark at night after studying. Furthermore, I would love for there to be a direct transport from my place to places such as Fallowfield and so on.” The Mancunion also spoke to a couple of students who
frequently have to commute to the north campus. Hannah Razlin, studies mechanical engineering and lives in Withington. She told The Mancunion that she is “definitely in favour of it”, describing the current bus route as “a pain. It’s so busy.” Callum Hunt however, also studying mechanical engineering, was sceptical. He explained that “I will support the proposition of a bus route between Fallowfield and the North Campus but I do not see it as necessary because it is only a small walk between getting off the bus and reaching the North
Campus. “There is already a bus that stops at the North Campus which
is the 147, free for students to use, but it would require a change over at the Students Union.”
Diversity Officer Omar Aljuhani is leading the campaign to introduce the new route from the North Campus to Withington. Photo - Exec_Omar @Twitter
OFT considers ‘value for Success forUniversity Model UN money’ university probe society at international meet Reports of poor value for money, substandard teaching, and price fixing, may lead to universities being placed under investigation Charlie Spargo News Reporter Following an investigation into value for money, the application process and the complaints system at universities across Britain, the Office of Fair Trading is considering launching an inspection into concerns about “non-competitive” behaviour. A call for information from students and institutions was
launched last year and the findings, along with plans on next steps, will be published in March. Questions were asked about fees, applications, complaints and quality of education. The results of this survey will determine what action it will take next. After the hike in tuition fees to £9,000 in 2012, the OFT may decide to investigate claims of collusion, price-fixing and poor value for money, as almost all British universities charge the maximum £9,000 or almost as much for most courses. An investigation into these claims could lead to more regulation for universities and a wider choice of courses. A change may also be required in the applications system which is currently limited to five institutions and
stops students applying to both Oxford and Cambridge, in order to raise competitiveness. Many have complained that the £9,000 per year they spend is going to waste. It has been reported that some degree courses offer students less than 40 minutes a week in tutorials, and there are worries about students not having enough contact with academics. This statement comes shortly after the OFT made a statement to many universities across the UK, including Manchester, explaining that preventing students from graduating due to unpaid non-academic fines, such as library or parking, could be a breach of consumer law. A spokesperson said that no decision has yet been made about what action will be taken.
Haider Saleem News Reporter
A relatively small delegate of 12 students from the University of Manchester Model United Nations society (ManMUN) competed at the London International Model UN (LIMUN) conference last weekend, the largest annual university-level Model United Nations (MUN) conference in Europe. 1500 delegates from 53 different countries took part in this threeday conference — discussing, debating and writing resolutions relating to international challenges that the UN faces today. The aim of the conference was to ‘build an understanding of global challenges amongst young people that crosses borders of background, culture and nationality’, according to their official website.
Delegates from The University of Manchester represented different countries such as Afghanistan and Brazil, on various committees that make up the United Nations. Third year Politics and International Relations undergraduate Heena Mohammed, President and Head Delegate of ManMUN, represented Brazil on the Disarmament and International Security council. She has trained and led the Society over the year and was awarded outstanding delegate at the closing ceremony. “LIMUN is always my favourite conference because it’s where I started my MUN career. LIMUN is the largest MUN conference in Europe, so there’s never a shortage of interesting people to meet!” Vice President and Religion and Theology student Naa Acquah,
took the role of Minister of foreign affairs in the crisis committee in the Turkish cabinet and was awarded best prepared delegate in her committee in the closing ceremony. “I thought the conference was great. We worked through interesting topics, met amazing people and it made me even more excited to try and pursue a career in foreign affairs and diplomacy.” The next conference ManMUN will compete in is at the Harvard World Model United Nations (WorldMUN) in Brussels, Belgium. In March 15 delegates who batted for a space will spend seven days in the capital of the European Union. World MUN is the biggest annual MUN conference in the world, which attracts 2,000 college and graduate students from more than 60 countries.
What matters to you in your community? Crime? Housing? Street lighting? What’s the big issue where you live?
With council elections taking place in May 2014, we’re keen to know about the issues that matter to you. Help us to tell the council how they can improve the area you live in.
www.manchesterstudentsunion.com/bigask
ISSUE 16 / 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
NEWS : 07
Students take to the streets of Manchester to ‘Reclaim the Night’ Anna Philips News Reporter
Students chanted protest slogans as the march progressed
LGBTQ students came out to show their support
Students took to the streets for the annual ‘Reclaim the Night’ march in Manchester to demonstrate against street harassment and sexual violence against women. A flood of women and men took to Wilmslow Road and marched from Owen’s Park, through the streets to the Students’ Union building last Thursday evening. The march was led by a selfdefining women’s only group, and was followed by a mixed group of demonstrators open to all genders. Marchers carried signs which read: ‘no consent, no nothing’, and ‘whatever we wear, wherever we go, yes means yes, no means no’. The event, organised by the University of Manchester Students’ Union is an annual march which has taken place for 17 years at many Universities around the country, in frustration at the dangers felt by women when walking alone at night and the anger towards ‘victim-blaming’ in cases of reports of sexual offences. In a 2010 report by the National Union of Students, it was revealed that more than a third of female students felt unsafe when walking alone at night, due to fears of harassment or attack. Hayley Dallman, a first year at University of Manchester who attended the march admitted to sometimes feeling unsafe at night. She said, “I feel like I never want to
leave my friends alone on a night out. That’s why I think the march is such a good thing.” Between the months of September 2013-January 2014, the amount of reported sexual offences was a total of 26. The previous year the number of reported offences amounted to 14, which shows an 86 per cent increase. Greater Manchester Police have also explained that in January alone there were 7 reports, and 5 were attributable to one perpetrator who has since been arrested. UMSU Women’s Officer Tabz O’Brien-Butcher explained the importance of the annual march, she said, “It is empowering for JSoc representatives demonstrated their alliance to the cause people who go on the march to be around other people who think that violence against women and street harassment isn’t okay. It is empowering for people to recognise that their frustrations and anger about the injustice is normal and other people do feel that way too.” She also said, “If tonight has made a few people think this isn’t okay, and want to stand up and say we shouldn’t be treated like this then it has all been worth it.” Reclaim the Night’s events continued in the Students’ Union until late, with a celebration of female talents. The party saw performances from groups such as Bhangra Society and Women Matta Choir, and a DJ set from Typical Bear-ly anyone could ignore the sound of the march on Oxford Girls, as well as live comedy, arts Road and crafts and community stalls.
The road was filled with banners and placards. All photos: Becky Lou Rigg
08 : Feature
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
“It’s now politically poisonous to be anti-internet”
Loz Kaye is a passionate campaigner against government surveillance Photo: Andy Hasall
Sam Dumitriu interviews Pirate Party UK leader Loz Kaye on surveillance, piracy and how we can use the internet to transform our public spaces Hi Loz, now it seems like the Pirate Party’s biggest issues would be national but you actually do a lot of local campaigning right? I think one of the things we found as a movement that started out focused on the Internet, is when you start to engage politically, there are whole ranges of things that need fixing. We’re learning the best of the approaches from the way the Internet functions, the way ideas filter up from crowds and people rather than being imposed from the top. What are the main reasons to be concerned about surveillance? Lets remember the extraordinary extent of mass surveillance that has been revealed by Edward Snowden. He called it the largest ever nontargeted surveillance in history. It’s truly staggering. We’ve seen into the programmes by the NSA and GCHQ who are doing blanket targeting of emails, web visit use, phone calls, photographs, and videos. In 2012, GCHQ handled something like six-hundred million phone call events - as they call them - just through the fibre optic surveillance program. Perhaps not many people think they’re likely to be picked up and taken off to Guantanamo Bay but we need to remember that we were promised by this government, and specifically by Nick Clegg, that we would not be
subject to blanket surveillance and the
It turns us all from citizens into suspects and is all about how information gets connected up together
so called Snooper’s Charter. We now know that we’ve been misled. It is important because it’s an attitude of the government and the surveillance communities towards us. It turns us all from citizens into suspects and is all about how information gets connected up together. We’ve already seen there are attempts to infiltrate and target people based on their beliefs. It has a really chilling effect on the desire of people to get involved in politics, when at the same time politicians are bemoaning the lack of democratic participation. It’s about how we can all be targeted simply because what we do sends up certain flags. What software are we able to use to protect ourselves? There are two things we should be doing: one, there is no excuse not to start to protect your own communications, especially if you’re interested in politics in any way. You should consider encrypting your email. People are holding “crypto parties” now to share information about how to protect your communication. You can also download an app called RedPhone that can protect your phone calls. I’m not so paranoid to think that anyone is out to get me but it’s just basic common sense.
The other thing we should be doing is putting political pressure on. Cameron has claimed that Snowden’s revelations haven’t made that much of any impact in the United Kingdom but 60,000 people have signed a Pirate Party petition for a full and proper inquiry into Prism and protection of whistle blowers. Just because our politicians failed to hold the security services to account, doesn’t mean those of us outside of the
Westminster bubble aren’t interested, but you have to let your MP know you’re concerned about these issues because one of the things they love to say is that that nobody cares and no one contacted us. Would you say this is not considered an issue by the major parties? It’s considered an issue in the wrong way. Particularly for the Conservative and Labour parties who haven’t missed
An interest response to webcam surveillance Photo: Ed Jeff
Feature : 09 any opportunities to push for further blanket surveillance. I thought it was disgraceful that in the wake of the Woolwich attack that previous home secretaries were pushing for the communications database, the snoopers charter, which was a cynical and frankly vile response to an individual tragedy.
We’ve seen how rape crisis centres have been blocked by these filters, how they have blocked access to LGBTQ information.
We’re not saying there shouldn’t be intelligence gathering but it’s about being specific and targeted. The problem has been that the Conservatives and Labour want to out-do themselves as being seen to be tough on crime and tough on terrorism without looking at what is the right thing to do. Many of the Liberal Democrats activists care about these issues, though what we found, as with the NHS and tuition fees, is that they’re unable to act and this is another area where they have directly let us down. Does piracy hurt musicians? We’ve said all along that there is not a major crisis in the music and film industries. There have been problems with the content providing industry has been way, way too slow to provide reasonable useful alternatives that really benefit artists
and take advantages of the new digital sphere. In Sweden we can see that last year music revenues have gone up and that is largely due to streaming income, even though it has been seen as the home of piracy because it’s the originator of The Pirate Bay. Sweden has a thriving digital economy that you can contrast with the United States, where digital revenues continue to fall. The average consumer spends £16 every three months on digital content. So-called pirates spend on average £26 pounds every three months. That’s not from the bureau of pirate statistics, that’s from OFCOM. When you’re able to have a thriving digital economy that also allows for the sharing of products that people have done since the first wax cylinder came out then that’s what benefits artists. As for site blocking, censorship is not an instrument of culture policy. It never will be. The plan for piracy was that your downloading would be sniffed on and you would be sent letters, and your household internet connection would be downgraded in a collective punishment, though no one wants to send out these letters this side of a general election. It’s now politically poisonous to be anti-internet. Do you think that a very small party can have a big influence? Yes, absolutely. It’s about being able to show that you’re serious and you have something to contribute on key issues. It’s about what approach you take. Why already in Manchester we’ve beat the various left wing parties is because that we’re not content to go out and demonstrate and shout a lot. You also need to be engaged and showing positive alternatives. We’re in a very different political situation now. We’re no longer in a two party system, or three, or even four, it’s much more interesting and I’m glad for that. What’s the Pirate Party’s take on Bitcoin? Bitcoin is interesting because it has shown there is more than one way to run an economy. Yes, it’s incredibly volatile and it’s a new territory, but it has huge potential in terms of economic growth and boosting smaller businesses.
Flying the flag for privacy! Photo: Pirate Party UK
Sharing is Caring
Photo: Alf Melin
It’s actually extraordinarily difficult to pay for things in the United Kingdom. We’re lagging behind Scandinavia in terms of card use, we’re lagging behind African countries in terms of payments by mobile phones, so I really welcome innovation on that front. There have been lots of scare stories about Bitcoin and what it’s been used for, that it’s not traceable, and it’s involved in paying for drugs, but you can say that about money (laughs) so that’s no different. What’s your take on the transPacific partnership? Right now we’re seeing a slew of international treaty agreements that are once again being negotiated behind closed doors. For all the European Unionists claiming that its involving people it is essentially being agreed without our say so. This approach has to stop. That is one of the key things we will be pushing for, that we are planning to field candidates in the EU elections. We need real engagement, and real inquiries. The biggest problem is that it has the potential to undermine workers rights, protection for the environment, and data protection. It’s really vital that we have voices in the EU parliament opposing that. The biggest problem is that corporate entities can get to write our laws, not people and our elected representatives, and that’s something we’ll be fighting every inch of the way. What about filters? We said that as soon as governments and courts took powers themselves for filtering or blocking for the purposes of copyright that that would start to spread, and we’ve been proved right. The government and the tabloid press have pressured the largest internet providers into a blanket filtering system that you need to opt out of rather than opt in. We have warned that there is no 100 per cent technologically-perfect system that can filter out undesirable content resulting in over-blocking of things that shouldn’t be blocked and under-blocking of things that should.
We’ve seen how rape crisis centres
We’re in a very different political situation now. We’re no longer in a two party system, or three, or even four, it’s much more interesting and I’m glad for that.
have been blocked by these filters, how they have blocked access to LGBTQ information. Far from protecting young people, it’s putting young people, and victims of abuse in danger, and I think this is deeply irresponsible. There’s a lot of Internet policy but what is the Pirate Party engaged with in Manchester? Right now, some of the biggest issues we’re looking at are about how people in Manchester get real power over the environment around them and also what the council is doing day to day. The council continues to blatantly ignore guidelines about transparency and citizen participation, so in the planning meetings, for example, the chair is still telling people not to use their phones to video or to tweet. This is completely against all the guidelines now.
Planning meetings aren’t the most thrilling things in the world but they are they are absolutely vital about every aspect that we see about us in this city. We’re pushing hard about the environment in Manchester. With the piecemeal privatisation of space, the city is being eaten by zombie carparks. We coined that, as the city is starting to look like the set for a disaster movie. That space that the residents want to make into green space and park space is being taken over, without planning permission, by car parking companies that bleed money out of the economy and damage the environment, and discourage positive transport like cycling and walking within Manchester. If the Pirate Party were elected to government, what would the first Queen’s Speech be? I would hope that any Pirate administration would be a broad coalition that would be looking at bringing a range of people with a range of views in. We would be looking to bring in a bill of digital rights, and ending age discrimination in the benefits system and the wage system against young people. Getting rid of tuition fees, and boosting libraries by taking experiences from ‘hacker-spaces’. Looking at alternatives to nuclear weapons, and boosting the economy by focusing on small businesses and peer-to-peer; that we would be protecting whistle blowers, that the attacks on civil liberties that have gone through successive governments would be ended, that we would be rolling back the worst legislation that have come from them. Most importantly that it would be about a completely different approach to politics: that it would be done with people and not to people.
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Opinion
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
If Russia is ‘anti-gay’ then so is America Lauren Gorton questions why the media have overlooked discrimatory legislation in the USA but damned Russia for its ‘anti-propaganda’ bill
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Photo: George Takei Facebook The Sochi Winter Olympics came to an explosive end on the 23rd of February. Yet despite boasting the highest medal count, Russia’s reputation has been damaged and its achievements overshadowed by the passing of Russia’s anti-gay propaganda bill. The bill, proposed in 2013, banned the distribution of propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations to minors. Thereby effectively making it illegal to suggest that homosexual relationships are worthy of equality or to distribute any material on gay rights. Although worded to be restricted to minors, in effect the bill creates a blanket propaganda ban over the entirety of the Russian community. As anyone with a twitter account or TV licence could tell you, this quite rightly resulted in the boycotting of the event by many prominent celebrities. Most notably Lady Gaga implored us all on Alan Carr’s Chatty Man to boycott for the sake of Tom Daley (admittedly the wrong type of Olympics for the 10m platform, but a noble gesture nevertheless). Notable personalities to slam Russia also included President Barack Obama. On the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Obama stated that the Russian law violates the basic morality that should transcend every country. He continued “I have no patience for countries that try to treat gays, or lesbians, or transgender persons in ways that intimidate them or are harmful to them… we [Americans] wouldn’t tolerate gays and lesbians being treated differently”. Well then I guess the anti-gay bills pushing forward in Kansas, Ohio, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee and South Dakota, following the successful legislation of the anti-gay bill in Arizona, are making things a little awkward for Obama right now. Well actually no, because these bills have received a fraction of the media attention that the
Russian law was internationally met with. The Arizona bill, passed on the 20th February by the State House of Representatives, makes Arizona the first in America to pass a bill seeking to discriminate against LGBT persons. The bill was championed by the Christian Legal Organisation ironically named the ‘Alliance Defending Freedom’. Their aim? To “shield Christians from the LGBT community” (notoriously known for
Sochi has provided a convenient smokescreen for the USA pillaging churches). They’ve done so by providing legal protection to individuals, businesses and religious institutions from discrimination lawsuits as long as they can show that their discriminatory actions were motivated by religious convictions. The similar bill in Kansas, currently battling through the Supreme Court, demonstrates the wide range of areas that these bills are targeting. Specifically listed areas of discrimination include adoption, foster care, social services, employment and employment benefits. This would lawfully enable an employer to refuse to provide health insurance for a gay employee. Further it makes any civil partnerships performed in other states void in the eyes of the Kansas legal system. Although you might hope that these bills are restricted to a tiny minority of the US population, and indeed many in the states
have demonstrated against them, the wider implications are disturbing. Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee is widely supporting such bills, going so far as to state that “…It’s a lot easier to change the constitution than it would be to change the word of the living God”. While the radical views of a former state governor might not strike you as being too worrying, Huckabee is currently pegged as the Republican favourite to win the 2016 Presidential elections. The Russian law seems to pale in comparison to the state specific anti-gay bills attempting to follow in Arizona’s footsteps. Yet the issue has rarely reared its ugly head on the main news feeds and the only prominent figure to have really made a notable stance is the loveable George Takei. So why has there been a significant absence of international outcry and media attention to such legislation in America? Maybe Sochi has provided a convenient smokescreen for America. Or it might just be that people assume these laws won’t last, a dangerous approach in itself. But perhaps culture is part of the problem. We can comfortably criticise Russia, just as we do Uganda, as we perceive its culture, in part, alien to our own. When culture is no longer an issue, as is the case with America, we find ourselves looking at a garish perception of our own society, somewhat different from the idealistic image we want to portray. Yet sticking our heads in the sand doesn’t make an issue go away. Hopefully one day school children will be taught how the LGBT community was discriminated, like how we were educated over the Black struggle for equality. If history is not to repeat itself then they should know the entire story, that such discrimination occurs everywhere, not just in non-Western countries.
Opinion
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
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VAT is a bloody mess Value added tax is something that is usually seen as being charged on luxury items, however women around the country are currently paying five per cent VAT on all sanitary products, because they are viewed as ‘non-essential’. There are some items that are exempt of VAT – children’s clothes, books, newspapers, and some equipment for the disabled. Are tampons any less essential than books? Why are women being taxed on items that are fundamental to facilitating a basic quality of life for twelve weeks of the year? In the 2011 census of the UK, women made up more than 50 per cent of the population (32.153 millions of us!), however in many respects are still treated as inferior to men. Research for the Higher Education Careers Services Unit found that the take-home pay of half of female graduates was between £15,000 and £23,999, in comparison to male graduates being more likely to take home £24,000
and above. Women are being fiscally disadvantaged whilst at university and once they’ve graduated. Despite the multitude of articles on the internet claiming that if women have sex in a certain position, they are more likely to conceive a female child, the gender of a baby is pretty much pot luck. So why are women being punished for something they are unable to control, and probably something most of them don’t want to have anyway. The amount of chocolate eaten, tissues sobbed in to, painkillers swallowed and partners argued with in one menstrual cycle is nothing one would choose. When I first started my period, it didn’t even register how much my mother was paying for my pads and tampons, mainly because it was just something I needed, something that was essential for me to continue life as normal, despite bleeding all day long for up to five days. Once at university, I didn’t even register how much I was paying
Photo: Flickr@elleyjonez for my Lil-Lets or my Always. I just put it in my shopping trolley like it was milk or bread. Because I needed them to function while my uterus lining was breaking down. I am a student. I am lucky enough to have a job as well as a maintenance loan in order to pay for my rent, bills and lifestyle. On top of that, in comparison to my male housemates, I am also paying extra per year because I was born with a uterus. Why should we, as women, have to sacrifice other luxuries for ridiculously priced sanitary items? As of today, in Sainsbury’s,
it would cost me £6.54 for a box of Tampax Tampons and a packet of 26 Always Sanitary Pads. The NHS provides free nicotine replacement therapy to help smokers quit, which includes patches, gum, lozenges, microtabs, inhalators and mouth and nasal sprays. Although this is a very important service, which benefits the health of thousands of individuals, it is not essential and cost the NHS £88.2 million in 2012, at a cost of £220 per person. The smokers chose to start smoking; women did not
choose to start bleeding. So what can be done? It’s unrealistic to expect the government to provide free sanitary products for the fertile percentage of the 32 million women, for the thirty-five odd years they menstruate for. But a realistic change could be dropping the five per cent VAT. I am fully aware that taxes are essential to the smooth running of our country, and are spent on things like benefits and education. But those women who are unemployed, and the girls who are being educated are also menstruating. Maybe the government should provide free sanitary products for women on benefits, so that they can spend the small amount they actually get on food and electricity. Surely every man, woman and child would find it not only offensive but probably quite disturbing if I were to walk around without using a tampon or wearing a pad. In a society where the cleanliness is getting to ridiculously clinical levels,
where I can buy a deodorant spray for my armpits, vagina, feet and general aura (Impulse, the Chanel No. 5 of 13 year olds), I don’t think it’s ‘nonessential’ to remain fresh, clean and comfortable during twelve weeks of the year. I am outraged with the fact that I am not only being taxed, but that I am also being charged at all to keep myself sanitised and presentable just because I am a woman. If David Cameron isn’t going to pay for my tampons, then maybe the NHS should at least subsidise them, and the five per cent VAT should be dropped. It is ridiculous to think that the majority of the population is affluent enough to afford frittering away that kind of money on tiny cotton cocktail sausages with tails. This only directly affects women, and it means that as a woman, I will have a unfair fiscal disadvantage, because I will be paying for an expense every month, and my male housemates will not. Amelie Eckersley
The UK sits at the beating heart of global tax haven culture Michael Selby-Green argues that corporate tax avoidance in the ‘developing world’ is a crime the UK is becoming more complicit in Any sentence with the word tax in it usually has the effect of making people instantly switch off or quickly lose interest. However, if you haven’t already stopped reading perhaps you should bare with me because this tax debate is different. There is one topic under the umbrella of taxation that is so symptomatic of greed, corruption, and power relations at the business end of our economy that it never fails to grab my attention: Corporate tax avoidance in the ‘developing world’. Tax avoidance is the practice of exploiting loopholes in the law in order to prevent governments claiming the appropriate amounts of tax on profits made within their borders. This is accomplished through a clever use of geographical and legal maneuvering. Most large transnational companies are capable of pulling off this trick, and many probably do. All that is required is a high quantity of money and an international
or global presence. With these assets, taxation on huge profits need not be paid, not even in countries suffering with high levels of malnutrition or water stress. When I think of tax avoidance, names like Silver Spoon and Coca Cola instantly spring to mind, as well as Google, Facebook, Amazon, Starbucks, Apple and many others. It matters where the avoidance is done, it dictates who is denied capital that has the ability to save lives and dramatically increase standards of living. In the ‘developing world’, where resources are short, the loss of this money because of tax evasion is inexcusable. As a result of this avoidance, every year the ‘developing world’ is effectively deprived of a sum of money equivalent to three times that given through global aid donations. This includes aid donated from wealthy governments like those of US and Europe and NGO’s such as Oxfam, equivalent to billions of dollars.
Photo: Flickr@Dominic Alvez To put things in perspective Action Aid considers tax havens to be one of the main obstacles in the fight against global poverty. Banks and CEO’s of large companies are unlikely to see these problems first hand, so what do they care? What does this matter to a company like Apple when there are always bigger profit margins to squeeze? Company executives are employed to make money and satisfy shareholders, not hold the hand of struggling ‘Global South’ populations, but we must change this notion.
Earlier in the year ‘Bollocks to Poverty’, The University of Manchester society and charity led by Camilla Gordon, presented one of the earliest screenings of a new film on tax avoidance in the UK; called ‘UK Gold’. ‘UK Gold’ brings tax avoidance back into focus and dealt with some very interesting issues. It seems that our beloved home, the UK, sits at the beating heart of global tax haven culture. Through connected territories such as the Cayman Islands and Virgin islands,
trillions of dollars are syphoned out of the tax system both from our home economy and from those abroad in the ‘developing world’. In fact, the UK’s involvement in this activity is so extensive that the Tax Justice Network (TJN), a leading tax justice research group said that, “The UK is the most important player in the financial secrecy world.” What can be done about this? Well, the British government has the power to change the laws of these affiliated islands, which could remove their functions as tax havens immediately and close the many loopholes that are still endorsed by the legislature and the City of London. This would fix some of the cracks in the global economy and might set the pace for others to follow suit. However a very strong political force would have to mobilize to generate this change. Tax avoidance is written into the DNA of our current economy. The City of London and it’s
financial services are the jewel in the crown of the economy and they benefit heavily from tax havens in order to maintain competitive advantages. As a result they have been protected by successive governments and David Cameron has misled the public about efforts to clamp down on havens while in reality the measures taken where negotiable and changed nothing significant. But all is not lost. The Obama administration is currently trying to tackle a number of tax loopholes in the US and perhaps the UK will follow that example. This topic is also increasingly on the public agenda and pressure is mounting as awareness becomes greater. A stronger public voice on this subject can only be a positive force in attempting to close tax loopholes and in doing so create a fairer and more equitable global tax system.
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Editors: Phoebe Clarke, Patrick Hinton, Tom Ingham Interview
Opinion
theMUSIC OPINION: Have the Brits lost their spark?
In the wake of last week’s Brit awards, with performances from huge household names such as Beyoncé, and with David Bowie no less predictably stealing Best Male Solo Artist, you would think it would have been a night to remember. But alas, this felt like it was far from the case. Though, admittedly hardly a shambles of a production, there was something missing from the ceremony that usually sets the internet alight. It is difficult to quite put your finger on what made the latest Brits performance decidedly less than thrilling, but it can perhaps in part be attributed to the lack of interest in those nominated, and the generally predictable nature of the winner for each category. Granted, some of the most highly successful artists and tracks of 2013 made the cut onto the final nominations, but in all honesty, it felt increasingly as though these awards were a note of the ability of the marketing teams behind the artists, over the music itself. Without becoming too sour over the state of popular music at the moment, having One Direction win Best Video for ‘The Best Song Ever’ seemed a little misjudged. However, this sort of pop culture is not only evident at the Brits, so I must make that clear, but this kind of awarding did make the Brits seem a little more generic, which is a shame, as us Brits do innovation in music so well. It wasn’t all injustice though; Bastille grabbed British Breakthrough Act, which really couldn’t have gone anywhere else considering the band’s almost over-night international success. Artic Monkeys also managed to slide past the formidable One Direction to take Best British Group. The group also took MasterCard British Album of the Year, which was followed by a fascinating
speech by Alex Turner about the endurance of Rock n’ Roll – and you certainly needed endurance to get through that speech. But even after all this, the audience still waned and fought to find something of interest in what should have been an electric evening. The performances were full of energy but it seemed artificial. The collaboration between Lorde (who took home Best International Female) and Disclosure, which sought to blend their biggest hits, ‘Royals’ and ‘White Noise’, just seemed a bit laboured. Though you appreciated the intention, it just didn’t quite work. The more simple performances, like a comparatively understated rendition of ‘XO’ by Beyoncé were much more easily received and added a bit of class to all the structured madness. Where Bastille’s performance with Rudimental had more success on the collaborative front, there was still no lasting memory of anything truly unique. The first broadcast of the Brits in the 1980s was for want of a better word, chaotic. Reportedly without any rehearsal, no wonder no one had a clue what was going on. But since then the awards have come a long way; perhaps too far? Boredom best sums it up for the most part. In fact there were perhaps two exciting moments in the entire show. One, when David Bowie sent a rather interesting speech in his place to be read by Kate Moss, which was all rather mystical until it said, ‘And Scotland, stay with us’. And the second, when Harry Styles was nowhere to be seen for the collection of One Direction’s award, because the star had been in the toilet. Ultimately though, when toilet gags are the highlight of a 2 hour show, there may be something a bit a miss. Natalie Proctor
the MUSIC INTERVIEW: Cloud Control Matthew Staite speaks to Alister Wright and Heidi Lennfer of Cloud Control before their headline show at Gorilla. As I speak to Cloud Control, the band is embarking on a tour passing through Manchester, London and Leeds to promote their second full length album, Dream Cave. The band originates from the Blue Mountains near Sydney, Australia, originally forming to compete in a battle of the bands competition back in 2007. The band released their first EP in 2008, followed by debut album Bliss Release in 2010. Despite the slightly relaxed release schedule, Cloud Control have been kept busy by numerous tours, and have also supported a host of big names on tour over the years: including Arcade Fire, The Foo Fighters, Vampire Weekend and The Magic Numbers to name but a few. The band have a truly international following in both the UK and the United States, but especially back home in Australia, where Bliss Release won the annual Australian Music Prize in 2011, and have been heavily played and promoted through Triple-J radio station. Reflective of their fan base, the band can now also be considered international, with half its members moving to London last year. “We had toured Australia quite a few times, so moving to London allowed us to do some extensive touring of the UK and Europe”, explains Alister. “I suppose if you had to describe the band in food terms we’d be a mix of a continental and English breakfast”, jokes Heidi. Dream cave was released in August last year, to mixed critical acclaim. “We supported the Local Natives on tour not long after the album came out, but it feels special to finally be touring the UK by ourselves at last”, answers Alister when I ask whether they are enjoying being back out on the road. The band are no strangers to Manchester, having played Soup Kitchen several times, a venue they particularly fond memories of. “Manchester is the first show of the UK
We wanted to create an album that brought Manchester in the Industrial era back to life. tour, which is exciting” adds Heidi, “but we only landed the day before yesterday, so we’re still completely jetlagged”. The band member curled up in a sleeping bag on the sofa in Gorilla’s backstage room is perhaps a more tell-tale sign of this. The band is unfazed by the step up in capacity from Soup Kitchen to Gorilla, and conversation immediately turns to a comparison of the venues respective culinary offerings. Gorilla eventually being the decisive winner due to its proximity to Dog Bowl Bowling next door, a presence which both Alister and Heidi seem more excited about than tonight’s show. Compared to the upbeat psychedelic pop of Bliss Release, Dream Cave at first seems much darker and broody. “The first album sounded very organic. Dream Cave still sounds very Cloud Control, but simultaneously very different”. Tracks such as ‘Promises’ and ‘Scar’ feature lush, yet haunting vocal harmonies which make both Cloud Control as a band and Dream Cave so special. Both the title track and last song on the album, “Dream Cave’ is perhaps the most memorable song on the album, with its vocals recorded inside an actual cave in
Kent. The sound of the record is expansive and spacious, which the band put down to a shared love of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of The Moon. Distorted vocals on tracks like ‘Scream Rave’ and ‘The Smoke the Feeling’ don’t play a particular purpose, but are a result of experimentation and the bands attempt to create this expansive sound. The band’s favourite song from the record however is ‘Dojo Rising’, underlined by its pulsating groove, and further demonstrates both the variety of songs on the record and Cloud Control songwriting potential. The bands diverse sound makes their live gigs captivating and exciting. “We want the audience to enjoy each of our shows and take away an enjoyable and special night”, comments Alister. “But also some merchandise” jokes Heidi, “so we can remain alive and keep going on tour”. Cloud Control’s touring schedule is an impressive feat in itself. The band played at Australia’s Laneway festival days before this interview, an Australian festival with a spectacular line up they were honoured to be involved in. After the end of their UK and European tour, the band returns home for a 35 date Australian tour. This summer they hope to play at several American and UK festivals, with Sasquatch Festival (with headliners Outkast) being the only festival confirmed so far. If you are lucky enough to see Cloud Control at a festival this summer, they will surely blow you away.
Matthew Staite
Top 5: by Anthony Cornish
TOP 5
SONGS:
Hip Hop Duos
1. Gangstarr The partnership of Guru and DJ Premier stands alone as the greatest hip hop duo to date. The didactic voice of Guru with its effortless flow and nonchalant style is accompanied flawlessly by the jazz-influenced beats of Primo. R.I.P Guru.
2. Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth ‘They Reminisce Over You’. A serious tune and a relevant phrase when considering these two: hip hop fans will be listening and reminiscing over this East Coast duo for years to come.
3. Erik B & Rakim
4. Chuck D &Flavor Flav
5. James Blake - CMYK
Many hip hop stars since these two have followed their lead and attempted to imitate their influential sound. But never matching their class. A groundbreaking duo that have had a huge impact on hip hop and its development.
This popular combo have delivered classics like ‘Fight the Power’ and ‘He Got Game’. The background input Flavor Flav provides for Chuck D can be recognised in an instant. And you got to love that clock necklace.
Despite being hugely disappointed when I caught Mr Jazzy Jeff at Gorilla last year, this duo must be acknowledged for their unique sound. They did, after all, create the theme tune Fresh Prince – need I say more?
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
: @MancunionMusic : / TheMancunionMusicSection
Music
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Preview releases. Tickets: £4/£5
March Clubbing
Lo-Fi | Underland Surgeon After a successful launch night in January, Lo-Fi are back. The musically aggressive and abrasive techno master Surgeon tops this bill - which also features many of Manchester’s resident selectors - in two roomed, new venue Underland. Tickets: £8/£10/£12
Patrick Hinton
3rd: 8 Gold Rings for Salford Jon | FAC251 Goldie / Marcus Intalex / DJ Q / Dub Phizix / and many, many more… ‘A very special night for a very special character’ says it all. With the passing of Salford Jon, Manchester lost a true legend of the dance music scene. All the acts are playing for free and all proceeds are going to a trust fund for his daughters. Come celebrate an important life. Tickets: £8 6th: Bank & Mekka | Odder Bar Fantastic Mr. Fox A truly eclectic DJ. His latest mix contained tracks ranging from the hip hop instrumentals of Clams Casino, the psychedelic and ambient work of Forest Swords and the pounding, bass-driven jungle of Tessela. Tickets: £3/£5/£7 7th: Zutekh | Sound Control Âme / Midland / Trevino Part 2 of Zutekh’s 5th birthday celebrations sees them pull in another excellent line up. The DJing member of Innervisions honchos Âme will spin a set
Tickets: £7/£8/£9
that includes the blissful techno/house his label purveys. Midland had one of the finest releases of 2013 with the inception of his Graded imprint. The exceptionally versatile Marcus Kaye performs under his techno/house alias Trevino. Tickets: £8/£10/£12/£15 8th: Soup Kitchen Kowton One third of Livity Sound, their set at this venue in June was one of the best I saw last year. This time Kowton is performing solo and all night long, expect Bristolian grime influenced techno. Tickets: £5/£7
14th: Music Is Love | Sankeys Moodymann / Levon Vincent / Delano Smith / and more… Music Is Love are bringing two of the US’s finest to Sankeys in certified legends Moodymann and Levon Vincent for the second night of their monthly residency. Levon Vincent upstairs in the intimate Spectrum room is especially unmissable. Tickets: £12/£15
Chow Down | Joshua Brooks Bok Bok / E.M.M.A Night Slugs have always been at the very forefront of club music, and boss man Bok Bok will show you why. Support comes from E.M.M.A.. Despite the recent flurry of feminine names attached to male producers (see: Patricia, SOPHIE, Miss Modular), she is indeed female. Her debut album was released on Keysound last year and was one of the most well received UK funky/bass
Meat Free | Joshua Brooks Tamo Sumo Not many phrases in house music carry more weight and significance than ‘Panorama Bar Resident’. These words apply to Tama Sumo, one of the best amongst the unequalled Berlin scene. Seeing her in Manchester is a very exciting prospect.
20th: Soup Kitchen Addison Groove b2b Die In celebration of the launch of his new album, Addison Groove performs an all night long b2b with Die. Footwork infused with D&B is quite a prospect. Tickets: £4/£5/£7 22nd: Soup Kitchen DJ TLR / Willie Burns DJ TLR - the crème de la crème. The runner of Crème Organization is playing alongside a DJ who has released on the label - Willies Burns. Willie also has releases on imprints such as L.I.E.S and The Trilogy Tapes under his belt. This should give a good indication of the quality of records that will be aired. Tickets: £5/£7 28th: Coded Rhythm | Roadhouse L-Vis 1990 We told you what to expect from Bok Bok, this can translate pretty accurately to fellow Night Slugs founder L-Vis 1990. See their latest boiler room b2b for more. Tickets: £5/£8 Selective Hearing & Hi Ku | Underland Dense & Pika / Jay Daniel / Alex Coulton / Palms Trax
Hi Ku and Selective Hearing are teaming up to bring this fantastic line up at a bargain price. All the artists put out excellent releases last year: Dense & Pika displayed piano infused techno on Colt, Jay Daniel showed impressive proficiency on his first release Scorpio Rising, Alex Coulton expertly produced and got expertly remixed by Tessela and Beneath on Too Much Talk and Palms Trax created a truly euphoric banger with Equation. Tickets: £6/£8/£10 27th March – 1st April: FutureEverything Festival | Various Venues Across the final weekend of March the city will be absolutely teeming with great nights (or evenings in some cases) thanks to the FutureEverything Festival. Nicolas Jaar and Dave Harrington’s Darkside are at the Ritz; the reclusive genius Dean Blunt is at Soup Kitchen; Evian Christ presents a night at RNCM also featuring Koreless, Lorenzo Senni, Visionist and T C F; the RNCM also hosts Tim Hecker and Julianna Barwick; meandyou. and Soup Kitchen are getting involved to bring a night featuring Florian Kupfer, Patricia, RVDS alongside their residents; and there is much more even beyond that. Tickets: Vary
Mancunion Music Show! Every Thursday, 5:00pm
Listen online at www.fusefm.co.uk Review
Review
St Vincent
Forest Swords Deaf Instituite - 8th February 2014 The night begins with Gnod, a Salford-based collective specialising in apocalyptic drone. Armed with various electronics, guitar, bass and a screaming saxophone, the band play a half-hour set consisting of one song that begins as an ominous rumble, before gradually swelling, and eventually reaching a colossal crescendo of noise. Thrown against the wall behind them are images of the cosmos, the hypnotic repetition of fractal patterns providing a fitting accompaniment to a set which
sounds like the death throes of the universe. The headline set gets off to a subdued start. A husky epigraph emanating from the speakers announces the arrival of Forest Swords who has appeared onstage, hunched over an array of synths and samplers. With his two releases, 2010’s Dagger Paths EP and last year’s brilliant album Engravings, he has shown an incredible ability to blend the brutal with the beautiful, and from the outset it is clear that his distinctive sound will go down well in a live setting.
8/10
While many producers are content to stand stationary behind a laptop, Forest Swords mixes things up. He incorporates live guitar and is accompanied by a bassist, giving the show a sense of spontaneity. There are a few issues with the sound as the system is seemingly unable to cope with some of the heavier sections of the set, but certain moments stand out: the blizzard-like opening of ‘Ljoss’ and the monumental gongs of ‘Rattling Cage’ still sound enormous. What sets Forest Swords apart is his ability to sound simultaneously contemporary and timeless. His delicate melodies, howling vocal samples and tribal beats combine to sound like a modern reimagining of an ancient spiritual ceremony. Tonight, Forest Swords has given us a taste of transcendence.
Manchester Cathedral - 21st February 2014 The night began with a brief notice from a member of Manchester Cathedral’s clergy, welcoming us to their ‘Cathedral of Rock’. Whilst it elicited a few chuckles throughout the audience, that statement suddenly laid bare the reality of my surroundings. This was a rock gig, in a church. There was no way this would be an ordinary concert, but what else can one expect from an artist like Annie Clark. There was only one opening act, the enigmatic Glass Animals. Having not encountered
this band before, I was very impressed. They proved to be the perfect complement to St Vincent’s angular and flamboyant style, providing plenty of interesting shifts in dynamics but keeping it subdued, sensuous and soulful throughout. This was to be their last date on this tour, and it was immediately apparent that they were thrilled to have been part of it. Songs like ‘Gooey’ and ‘Woozy’ lived up to their name, grooving along smoothly and setting a chilled out mood before Annie’s performance.
St Vincent’s set opened with the first track off her new self-titled album, Rattlesnake. Seemingly appearing out of thin air, she danced her way over to her guitar to remind us just how ludicrously talented she is on the instrument. The set lasted the best part of 2 hours and was filled with bizarre, almost robotic choreography, some charming musings and an exploration of her entire discography, ranging from the deafening sonic assault of ‘Krokodil’ to the sombre ‘I Prefer Your Love’ (the hook, “I prefer your love to Jesus” carried a greater weight given the setting). Always coming across as somewhat otherworldly figure, St Vincent seems to exist in her own plane of reality. For one night, we were given a fleeting insight into her world. And it was glorious. Jack Winstanley
Michael Crick
9/10
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Music
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Now: Real Estate- Atlas Domino Records. Release Date - 3rd March 2014
Atlas is a model of consistency from a band who have carved a creative nook and are perfectly happy to sit in it. It’s neither a leap forward nor a step backward, but then that’s one of the endearing qualities of this band: Real Estate are in no rush to get anywhere new. In an age where so much new music is crying out for your attention lest it be cast aside in the endless echelons of Spotify (or whatever the kids are using now), it’s reassuring that Real Estate are content to sit back and hone their craft. They’re unlikely to gain any new fans from this record, but their old fans will fall further in love. The real beauty lies in how effortless the whole thing sounds, despite its intricate detail. Their blissed out, jangling guitar sound is complimented by Martin Courtney’s sighed, trouble-free vocals. It requires more patience than last album Days, where most of the songs were immediately catchy enough to be
For full listings visit:
manchesteracademy.net 8/10
used as ‘Made In Chelsea’ background music (which they were). It may not be until the 4th or 5th listen that everything seems to clicks into place, but it’s all the more rewarding as the subtler melodies gradually unfurl with each listen. Atlas comes under the category of ‘a grower not a shower’ (in strictly musical terms). Courtney sings of the stars at night, horizons, lost loves and sprawling landscapes. All very vague and dreamy, but it’s a wistful fantasy that you can crawl inside and cosy yourself in. Like all of their music, the album has a nostalgic tone that anyone can relate to. Singling out songs as highlights is an unnecessary exercise given the total consistency of the songs as a full set, which is how it should be heard. There are no standout tracks, but that’s because they’re all very, very good. ‘How Might I Live’ however does stick out like a sore thumb because it’s the only song written and sung by Alex Bleeker, and plays out like a folk ditty in contrast to the guitar tapestries filling out the rest of the album. Choruses are kept modest and tasteful, and they never raise the noise levels, so as not to wake the neighbours. Some listeners might find that it lacks a bit of bite. What I’ll say is that if you consume records the same way you consume fast food, you may want to give this one a miss. For those who enjoy intimate, considered music that’s more interested in tickling your senses than blasting your socks off, this is a rare treat. Henry Scanlan
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July 1963
Over fifty years after its release, The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady remains something of an oddity among even the greatest jazz records of its time. While New York city’s jazz scene in the late fifties and early sixties saw much in terms of experimentation, steadily separating its musical output in terms of structure and harmony from the foundations laid by its great fore-runners such as Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, none of the offerings of Mingus’ contemporaries around this time - or, for that matter, any of Mingus’ other albums - make an impression quite like this record does. The main reason for this, is that Black Saint escapes most of the structural, harmonic and melodic conventions that one would attribute to the American jazz music of this time - for instance those of bebop, or cool jazz. The album is conceived partly as a ballet: each track is titled for unnamed dancers, each track moulding a sonic identity for these figures, and each building upon a musical core that is laid down in the opening track: grooves developing from the introductory one, which change unpredictably - matched with shifts in key and tempo - interspersed with virtuosic solos and those slower, passionate motifs which act as the album’s lifeblood. While the overtly Spanish feel of the album’s second half, as one of its immediate defining characteristics, may not in itself quite be original (in that Miles Davis had previously incorporated Spanish influences in his seminal Sketches of Spain album three year prior, as well as John Coltrane in Olé Coltrane), its presence here at no point feels as though it is meant as a tribute or an experiment. Alto saxophonist Charlie Mariano makes heavy use of the overtly flamenco-sounding Phrygian dominant scale (most notably in the middle of track
RockSoundImpericonExposureTour2014 We Came As Romans + Chunk! No, Captain Chunk! + The Color Morale + Palm Reader Wednesday 26th Black Onassis Thursday 27th
MARCH The Dear Hunter And Anthony Green Saturday 1st
Randeep Samra
Brody Dalle Tuesday 22nd The Temperance Movement Wednesday 23rd Uncle Acid &The Deadbeats Thursday 24th Patent Pending & People On Vacation Friday 25th Jace Everett with band Friday 25th The Smiths Ltd Saturday 26th
Blackberry Smoke Sunday 2nd
John Butler Trio Sunday 27th
Black Lights Saturday 8th
Blood Red Shoes Monday 28th
Example Friday 14th Heaven 17 Saturday 15th Maximo Park Saturday 15th Sex Pistols Experience Saturday 15th Space & Republica Thursday 20th NMEAwardstour2014withAustin,Texas: Interpol + Temples + Royal Blood + Circa Waves Thursday 20th Ian Prowse & Amsterdam Friday 21st Quadrophenia Night Friday 21st Heaven’s Basement Saturday 22nd Transmission - The Sounds of Joy Division Saturday 22nd Bonafide Wednesday 26th Jack Savoretti Thursday 27th Loveable Rogues Friday 28th Tyrese, Ginuwine and Tank (TGT) Friday 28th The Stranglers Saturday 29th
3), and the result is at once daring and organic, poignantly conveying the themes of desire and salvation implied by the album’s title. The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady is unquestionably essential listening for anybody interested in jazz. And while 1959’s Mingus Ah Um tends to be hailed as his best work, Black Saint is certainly the album that breaks more ground. Perhaps counter-intuitively, this is one of the main reasons I would recommend this album to newcomers into the world of jazz. With the ideal of starting as one means to go on in mind: while this album is not so dissonant or extremist as to repel the more sensitive portions of a yet-unreached prospective audience, The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady epitomises the sense of rapture and exploration that most music of this kind aims to engender.
Kvelertak Monday 21st
Temples Saturday 1st
Azealia Banks Wednesday 26th
Then: Charles Mingus - The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady Impulse!
FEBRUARY
APRIL Hopsin Tuesday 1st The Robert Glasper Experiment Wednesday 2nd Emblem3 Thursday 3rd Therapy? Troublegum 20th Anniversary Thursday 3rd Mentallica vs Megadeth UK Saturday 5th
MAY De La Soul Friday 2nd Northside Saturday 3rd Action Bronson Monday 5th Clean Bandit Wednesday 7th The Hold Steady Wednesday 7th Janelle Monae Wednesday 7th Martin Stephenson & The Daintees Thursday 8th Jagwar Ma Saturday 10th The Clone Roses Saturday 10th Pentatonix Tuesday 13th Lit Wednesday 14th Embrace Saturday 17th CASH – The No.1 Johnny Cash Tribute Saturday 17th Capone-N-Noreaga&Onyx Saturday17th Goldfinger/Zebrahead Thursday 22nd Swans Thursday 22nd Ned’s Atomic Dustbin + The Wedding Present + CUD + The Sultans Of Ping + The Frank & Walters + Chameleons Vox
GIGANTIC – Classic Indie All Dayer Bank Holiday Saturday 24th
The War On Drugs Wednesday 28th AWOLNATION Thursday 29th Francis Dunnery Band Friday 30th
REST OF 2014 Schoolboy Q Sunday 1st June The Polyphonic Spree Saturday 7th June Jurassic 5 Thursday 19th June
Bipolar Sunshine Saturday 5th
Extreme – Pornograffitti Live Tour Friday 4th July
Deaf Havana Saturday 5th
Anberlin Thursday 7th August
Riverside Sunday 6th
AxisOfAwesome Monday22ndSeptember
Devildriver Wednesday 9th The Wildhearts Thursday 10th Johnette Napolitano (Of Concrete Blonde) Thursday 10th Hue & Cry Thursday 10th Memphis May Fire Friday 11th UB40 Saturday 12th Penetration Saturday 12th Gallon Drunk Tuesday 15th Augustines Wednesday 16th
Vance Joy Thursday 25th September Evile (Album Launch Show) Saturday 27th September Miles & Erica Saturday 11th October Anti-Nowhere League Thursday 16th October The Orb Saturday 18th October Asking Alexandria Friday 31st October Cockney Rejects Thursday 6th November
The Summer Set Thursday 17th
Dan Baird & Homemade Sin Friday 21st November
Berlin Berlin Saturday 19th
LimehouseLizzy Saturday22ndNovember
Games
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
15
Editor: Alasdair Preston Preview
Preview: Respawn Entertainment • EA Games • RRP: £44.99 • Available on X1, 360 and PC
Retro Corner
Titanfall Alasdair Preston gets hands on with this generations first big release
It feels like Titanfall is being shoved in our faces even more aggressively than GTA V was last September. Every single web advert I see seems to be plastered with images of the exciting new game. If it were anything else, I’d probably follow this up by saying how sick of hearing about it I am. Instead of that distinctly more natural reaction, the persistent advertising is making me feel sad. Sad that I got to taste the game, and have to wait before I can play it again. PC and Xbox One players got to experience Respawn’s debut title in the recent beta test. Access was originally restricted to the lucky few that received invites, but was eventually widened to everyone. This step down in exclusivity came shortly after stories emerged claiming that access keys were selling for up to $70. There aren’t many games that people have been quite this desperate for. In the week or so leading up to the beta, my enthusiasm for the title had waned somewhat. Initially, I was set on buying the Xbox One purely to play Titanfall. However, since acquiring the console I had lost sight of that. Actually getting to play Titanfall reignited that desire. It would be easy to get bogged down in “it’s just Call of Duty but with mechs” and similar thoughts, but Titanfall is an entirely different beast. The only gameplay similarities between Titanfall and the CoD franchises come about purely because the great minds
that first instigated those designs at Infinity Ward are the ones behind Titanfall. For me, Modern Warfare 2 was the pinnacle of modern FPS. The map design, weapon balance, tightness of controls and attention to detail all over made it a game that I couldn’t stop playing. Every step the franchise has made away from that ideal since has been a step in the wrong direction. Titanfall is a significant distance away from Modern Warfare 2 in a lot of ways, and it is substantially better. In a game where you spend half your time wall-running and jet-packing, and the other half piloting a metal monster, it would be so easy to find a flaw in the way it handles. That is, if there were a flaw. Every movement is fluid. The pilots are dynamic, complex movements are simple and easy to control. The titans are bulkier, slower and yet deft. Piloting them is intuitive. In no time, you get used to lumbering around the maps, crushing grunts underfoot and hopefully taking out many enemies with the heavy weaponry at your fingertips. Then, at the drop of a hat, you explode out of the machine and go on foot to fight other pilots and even board enemy titans, known as a “rodeo” attack, to get their vulnerable spots. Combat is deeply satisfying. Firing both the pilot and titan weapons comes naturally. You feel powerful as the kills rack up, regardless of what enemies you’re against. The impression from the beta is that the number of weapons to choose from is limited. In Image: ToTheGame fact, it could well be the case that there is only one weapon of every class. One shotgun, one assault rifle etc. This could make the annoying advantages some players seem to get in titles like Battlefield and CoD a thing of the past, and is more reminiscent of the original Modern Warfare. Choosing your loadouts is, therefore, a much more elegant affair. It’s easier to understand, and harder to take advantage of purely through time played. In the few short days the
Tuan Dao recalls a quality crime game that stood up to Grand Theft Auto
beta was available, I managed to squeeze in over 10 hours of game time. Considering that there were only two maps on show, with three different game modes (amounting to six different matches in essence), you’d think this would quickly get repetitive. Somehow, each round played out differently and felt like a totally new fight. Their versions of team deathmatch and domination were immensely enjoyable takes on traditional ideas that were enhanced by the additions of the grunts littered around the map. The third mode, Last Titan Standing, was reminiscent of Gears of War’s Execution, but with a Titanfall twist. As the name reveals, you play multiple rounds spawning in a titan with the sole objective of wiping out the other team’s mechs. However, losing your titan isn’t necessarily the end of your game. As a pilot, you can utilise the powerful anti-titan weapons and rodeo technique to cause trouble for the opposition. In Titanfall more than any other game I’ve played, teams of complete strangers seemed to actually work together. Buddying up in titans to cover each other and overwhelm the enemy is a powerful tactic, and it seemed that the community grasped this quickly. Titanfall has no story mode. Instead, it’s tale is told by the multiplayer matches. The beta revealed very little about this. All we know for now is an organisation named IMC is battling against a rebel Militia. The IMC side seem to be a suspiciously evil mix of South African and British accents, whereas the Militia are a comfortable American, probably meaning that us Brits are, once again, the villains. This limited beta revealed a lot about the game that, up until this point, we had no clue about. It isn’t likely that Titanfall will automatically drive CoD and Battlefield out of the business in one year, but it will certainly gain some ground on them. The ball is well and truly in DICE and Treyarch’s court now.
Alasdair Preston
The mafia always sparks Image: ToTheGame an interest in our minds. Obviously everyone wants to know more about their lives, about how the people who so value respect and family can commit hideous crimes without blinking an eye. If Godfather is considered the best of the genre in movies, then Mafia may very well serve as it’s counterpart in the gaming world. Released in 2002, Mafia stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the phenomenal GTA: Vice City, if not better. In Mafia, players take the role of Tommy Angelo, a normal cab driver who was struggling to make a living in the Depression-era city of Lost Heaven. By some strange turn of events, Tommy became involved with the Salieri mafia family. Tommy told his story to a detective several years later, after he had abandoned the mafia and decided to testify against them. Mafia’s gameplay involves mainly driving around and shooting people. The latter feels satisfactory with various missions, from assassinating to setting a whole hotel room to blow. The former is tedious at times, especially when you have to drive to the other side of town again after failing a mission. However, in some ways all that driving lets you in on the lively atmosphere of the city. The most memorable thing about Mafia is the game’s near-perfect story-driven experience. Living Tommy’s mob life, climbing up the ranks from a normal getaway driver to one of the top echelons, we experience a cinematic, dramatic and absolutely lovely journey that raises so many questions about honor, friendship, betrayal and morality. All of this was put in the brilliant setting of Lost Heaven, beautifully crafted and designed by the game developers. It is so carefully detailed, with 30’s style cars, busy city centre, poor/rich neighbourhood, even a ride-able rail system. Many people may compare Lost Heaven to Liberty City and Vice City, but the difference is in design style. The former is much more real with, for example, vehicles on the street being locked and police going after you when you cross a red light. Thanks to this, your adventure in the city feels so immersive, adding even more substance to the already great story of Mafia. Mafia is the type of game that when you replay it every few years, everything feels like new. It is undoubtedly a masterpiece, a must-play for any type of gamer.
Extra Life
Extra Life: EA Sports • RRP: £34.99 • Available on all major platforms
FIFA Football 2014 Tom Cottrell assesses whether six months on the super sports sim is still worth buying
Released in September, this year’s edition of the licensed football simulator is the best one yet, but at five months old (fifty in sports game years), is it still worth buying? Well if you’re like me, and (given that you’re reading this game review instead of improving the lives of yourself and the people around you) you probably are, you aren’t a millionaire tycoon sitting high on a golden throne playing your fancy and expensive next-gen console just yet. If you do have an Xbox One, then stop wasting time and move your eyes a few inches up to read the Titanfall preview. Do it now. Alone at last. Given that the game is already halfway through its life, one can understand the argument for waiting it out for the 2015 version. Past experience tells us that, somewhere at EA, staff are already working
on tweaking the passing, making tackling slightly more difficult, giving the menus another coat of silver and white paint, and boosting Lionel Messi’s stats to ever loftier heights, so we may as well just get that when it comes out. But it is that very reason that makes this the time to buy this year’s game. The new version, although increasingly imminent, is unlikely to be much of an improvement. This game is an incremental improvement on the previous titles, with matches against your mates as fun as it’s ever been, the main changes have been made to the other modes. The Ultimate Team mode is rewarding and enjoyable. The trading card system is simple, and vastly customisable. Improvements to your players, staff and other team details are cheap enough that you have a lot
of control over every aspect of your team, but the superstars of the game are expensive enough that there is always an improvement to make. The Seasons mode means that there is a lasting result to your performances. Win every game and you’ll find yourself promoted over and over until the game finds a difficulty level to suit you, lose too many and you’ll be presented with weaker opposition to get you scoring again. The same approach is used with matches against other online players, against whom you can pit your best XI. I welcomed this feature, as it limited the time I spent getting thrashed 5-0 by cockney ten year olds who can somehow afford Messi and Ronaldo. By my estimations the value of those two players on the in-game trading card market is the collected prize
money from nearly 12,000 matches played. That’s 100 total real world days of matches played, plus sitting in lobbies and menus plus eating and sleeping. There have, at the time of writing, only been 153 days since the release date of the game. It’s possible my opponent had spent 15.6 hours of every day relentlessly playing match after match without break or exception for five whole months. It isn’t the only explanation, however. One can buy packs of players and other club tradable items, with either in-game currency, or “FIFA points”. £80 worth of these points will get you 80 packs of players, which represents an 1800 match head start on other players. While this won’t ruin the game for other players, it creates a gulf in the otherwise enjoyable player trading market. This isn’t a free app depending on micro-transactions to
Image: ToTheGame
survive, it’s a £50 game that comes out every 12 months with relatively few changes, and unbalancing one of the modes for extra revenue is pretty petty. There is a bright side however: transfer fees being so exorbitant adds a layer of realism to the game. I bought the 360 version of FIFA 14 around a month ago for half the price it would have cost at release, and I would strongly recommend that at £25 you should do the same thing. There is easily 6 months of play left in this title, and you may even find yourself keeping at it for the next 18.
Tom Cottrell
Editors: Susie Coen, Marie ClareYates, Halee Wells (Beauty) Top 5
TOP
5
A Mancunian in Paris...
Hats Hat lover Naomi Springer shows us the top 5 hats for this Spring
Whimsical yet undoubtedly practical, hats sum up the world of fashion itself, and especially Parisian chic. Is there anybody who can forget those images of Chanel herself sporting a wide brim?
Feature
CLASSIC STYLE: The Chanel 2.55 BLOGWATCH: Paris
Nikki Patel takes you through the history of the iconic Chanel 2.55 handbag. Imagined first by Coco Chanel in Paris, this piece is one of the most timeless, infamous and versatile accessories a girl could own Photo: Instagram @fashion_brand_1
for in terms of style. Quilted and adorned with a strap of gilt chain, most people are not aware that the significance of its design runs a lot deeper than the aesthetic. For instance, the iconic quilted design of the 2.55’s lambskin gives it just the perfect amount of body, whilst the chain is said to be based on the key chains of the caretakers at her convent orphanage in Aubazine. Most strikingly, the ‘secret’ pocket, hidden within its flap closures is said to have been designed to hold Coco Chanel’s love letters, adding an endearing sense of romanticism to the iconic piece.
2. Cloche. Long forgotten, but making their comeback. This hat reached its peak in the twenties. Have we all still got influenza from the new film version of The Great Gatsby or is this hat a real winner? Well, back then, Lanvin commissioned milliners to create
3. Bowler. It is a fact of life, like gravity, that if you can pull off a bowler - you must. A bowler would have protected Newton’s head far better from the apple than his hair alone anyway. Bowlers are iconic because they are totally unisex, are easy to find in stores or online and relatively cheap. Recently spotted on indie rockstars, these hats can be smart or rebellious. Looking for smart? Their ancestry within the British military makes the walk into the dreaded exam room a proud march toward triumph.
4. Trilby. My staple this winter is a brown trilby with a black bow around the rim. The Trilby began life via a stageplay by George de Maurier. Now we are finally reaching our destination, Paris! Trilby hats are easy to find in shops, are inexpensive and generally flattering. They are similar in shape to a trilby but have a fold at the centre, which, no matter how much you wear, reshapes. Yet another hat that both genders can wear, and match with their own wardrobes, is definitely worth looking into.
5. Beret. You expected this. Did somebody order a cliché? But who could not visit Paris without packing one of these? Their ability to evolve to not only match but create a look makes them a must. You can wear them with a coat and scarf in winter if you feel the urge to channel your inner Brigitte Bardot. The multiple ways on which you can position them on your head itself make them so fun that you may as well pick one up just to unleash your inner stylist. They work with both short and long hairstyles, looking just as becoming on either sex. If you truly want “in” on Paris fashion, you knew already, the beret was the way.
Images: Miss Selfridge, hatshopping.com, ASOS, ASOS, American Apparel
Back in the 1920s Paris, before becoming a sartorial stalwart for young and old alike, Chanel dreamed up the 2.55 in its simplest form; a handbag with a strap. Despite its simplicity, this innovative sense of chic practicality reflected the ever increasing status of females in society, and their translation from limited domestic lives to positions of power. After all, having your hands free is essential when you’re busy trying to revolutionise the face of female fashion. Inspired by soldier’s packs, the 2.55 was actually launched in February 1955 and for what its name lacked in originality, it more than made up
As with everything, the 2.55 has of course evolved over the years. Lagerfeld famously added the intertwined ‘C’ logo in the 1980s and it has since been reimagined to reflect the dynamic and changing trends of the 21st century. However, the evergreen it-bag doesn’t seem to have betrayed its creative roots, managing to maintain that same paradox between humility and sophistication dreamt up by Chanel in the 20s. Whether worn with jeans and a jersey t-shirt or an LBD and pearls, it is the ideal accessory and a sure-fire investment both financially and in terms of timeless style. In fact, the 2.55 handbag seems to have become ingrained in our cultural consciousness, hence its status as an unforgettable icon. Having been slipped over Princess Diana’s shoulders on official visits, featured in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and worn by celebrities such as Alexa Chung, Jerry Hall and Catherine Zeta Jones, it is clearly a go-to for those seeking sophistication, style and practicality in its simplest form. Long live the 2.55.
A day in the life of a Vogue intern
Carmy Chapell Elkin discusses the hot blogs to watch right now
1. Camille Over The Rainbow www.camilleovertherainbow. com
3. Le Blog de Betty www.leblogdebetty.com
Get the look:
Brigitte Bardot Millie Kershaw shows us how to get an iconic Parisian look on a student budget
Betty Autier’s blog is one of the most colourful, imaginative and funny blogs out there. She mixes high-end pieces with clothes from H&M and Topshop to find the perfect balance. On her blog you will find high-quality photographs, statement outfits, giant bows, doughnuts. She doesn’t represent the typical Parisian style, but in a refreshing way: she shows us that there is a very playful side to being Parisian. Lastly, Betty is a blogger that travels constantly for her work so she provides a good dose of wanderlust inspiration for those tired of Manchester’s winter.
2. Be Frassy www.befrassy.net Audrey Rogers originally comes from the US but followed her dreams of fashion to Paris and now works on her blog professionally. Although her roots aren’t French, her photographs are always beautifully poised in front of Parisian landmarks such as the Iron Lady herself. Her style is playful, colourful and inventive, more often than not accompanied by her signature oversized bun. Choose Audrey’s blog if you’re looking for stylistic photographs, forward-thinking style and Parisian inspiration.
The veritable Tour Eiffel of style icons and the original sex kitten, Brigitte Bardot is synonymous with sixties style and Parisian chic. Here is a guide to achieve the effortless look of none other than BB herself on a student budget. Sixties makeup was all about doe eyes and a powdered, velvety finish. Prep the skin and be sure to apply powder after your base makeup. The Rimmel Stay Matte powder in Transparent will set your makeup and keep everything shine-free, without adding any extra coverage. The skin should still look fresh and life-like.
Would you sell your sole for the sake success of Louboutin down to the designs or of fashion? Isthetheiconic red sole? Jake Pummintr discusses.
Aimee Grant Cumberbatch reveals what it is really like to work for fashion’s most coveted magazine: Vogue the building because I didn’t have a designer bag/wasn’t wearing the right kind of shoes/she hadn’t meant to hire a dweeb with a dodgy fringe. Imagine the first day at a new school where nobody’s given you the uniform list so you have no choice but to go in your pyjamas and you’ll have half the idea of the fear I was feeling. When big day did eventually roll round I was shocked to find that not only was my boss nice, but in the seriously smart outfit that I’d agonised over, I was ever so slightly overdressed. The office uniform was pretty much just jeans and a top. When they say the French are all about understated elegance, they aren’t lying, it’s all crisp shirts, immaculate cuts and je ne sais chic. As for events, I was lucky enough to go to a presentation of some of the London Fashion Week SS14 collections with my brilliant boss and a fashion show during PFW, to which I took my mum, very cool I know. I also attended a private party for the far-to-cool-forme French label Maison Kitsuné on a terrace over looking the Seine. After a few hours of I-have-nothing-to-wear hyperventilation, me and my friend Sophie from work arrived and were ushered past the queue (a definite high point of my sad little life) before spending the rest of the evening messily eating burgers from the food truck in the corner. So not Vogue. In terms of freebies, unless you count felt tips from the stationary cupboard, I didn’t get many, sometimes we were
Fashion
Karl Lagerfield himself noted that fashion has moved outside of the traditional realm of newspapers and magazines, and blogs have become the future of fashion news. And where more influential would this phenomenon be than in what is often described as the birthplace of fashion, home to Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Dior. Here’s my pick of the top three inspirations on Parisian style in the blogosphere:
Camille Charrière is one of my favourite bloggers of all time. I love her style because it encompasses day-to-day looks that you or I could wear to university without looking out of place. Currently she lives in London, although most of her life was spent in Paris and her style certainly emulates Paris chic. The other refreshing thing about Camille is that her posts are actually entertaining to read as well as to look at; her writing style is playful but informative. Camille is one of the most reliable bloggers in terms of outfit inspiration which reflects that perfectly put together, simple Parisian air.
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Images: camilleovertherainbow, frassy, leblogdebetty
Feature
Lectures on cerulean blue, coffee runs at the crack of dawn, a designer-clad Ice Queen for a boss. This is the image that most pops into most people’s heads when you say Vogue internship. “What designer freebies did you get?”, they ask, “Did you sit front row and go to loads of cool parties?”, “Are you mates with Emmanuelle Alt now?”… I’d love to tell you they escorted me straight to the Vogue wardrobe on day one and kitted me out in designer clobber but the reality of my internship at the Vogue Paris website was quite a bit less glam, but a lot more interesting and inspiring. What is a day in the life of a Vogue intern really like then? Well I worked as an editorial translator for the international version of vogue.fr, the website of Vogue Paris. So from the outside, much like your average office job. I sat behind a computer at a desk and I even had my own mug, though I never managed to convert my french colleagues from black coffee to tea with milk and two sugars. Most of my days were spent translating articles from the French site for use on the English language international version. Which I then loaded up onto the website before promoting them on Facebook and Twitter with as many puns and as much alliteration as I could possibly cram into 140 characters. My first day at Vogue.fr was probably the scariest of my life. I’d moved to Paris only the day before and spent the whole night inventing scenarios in which my boss-to-be banished me from
Fashion
Blogwatch
1. Floppy. The shape is a friendly one. The way in which the hat initially curves around the face and moves outwards is akin to a good haircut. During winter, a dark colour will add sophisticated flair to an oversized coat. A straw copy in summer paired with boho dresses gives you the ultimate Woodstock nostalgia we are too young to have! Depending on the season you are shopping for, you can find these beauties in any fabric from wool to straw. It is called floppy in the stores because it is so flexible to wear.
cloche hats simply to match their designs. There has to be something about them, right? They are romantic hats, and after all, isn’t Paris the city of romance? Being both feminine and flirty, this is why heroines wore them in the silent flicks.
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ISSUE 16/ 3rd FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Image: Writer’s own offered what the more senior journalists don’t want, but you had to get in quick! One of the things I loved most about the internship was the variety, I live tweeted Vogue Fashion Night until the early hours of the morning, my knowledge of French words for luxury items is excellent (as is weirdly my precious skins vocab…), and they even let me run the show for three weeks, ok it was an emergency situation, but it’s still probably my proudest achievement to date. I absolutely loved my time at vogue.fr and though I still find it hard to believe they even let me in the building, I’m so grateful they did.
For anyone with the slightest regard for fashion (or even for those without), it is plausible to contend that upon mentioning of the word “Paris” in a fashion context, all things Dior, Chanel, Lanvin, Balmain and Louboutin come to mind (to name but a few). Since the Parisian designer Christian Louboutin, first painted the bottom of one of his shoe designs with his assistant’s China-red nail polish in 1992, the house of Louboutin has followed with wenty-two years of cumulative success into what is unquestionably one of the most coveted brands in the industry today. Whilst Louboutin is known more famously for its exquisitely decadent collections of towering heels for women, the year 2011 saw the launch of a menswear capsule collection
at a small but charmingly exclusive store in Paris. The question at the head of the table though is as follows: How can the tremendous success of a womenswear brand of high-heels translate suitably into the same for men? Is it a case of resting upon the reputation from what it had already successfully achieved? Or rather, does it reside in the simple matter of brand recognition and the red sole? Like the vast majority of super-luxury brands, their allure and appeal lies within the story behind the products or the process in which the items are produced. Known publicly as a shoe fetishist, Louboutin explains in an interview with Time that, “when a woman puts on a heel, she has a different posture, a different attitude… She really stands up and has a consciousness of her body.” Thus, this concentration on the female form and the lines it creates when in a pair of rocketing heels is thoroughly sexual. Likewise, the designer also stated that any woman wearing his shoes is saying Suivez-moi, jeune home (“Follow me, young man”). This goes further in that in the film and television industries of today, it is commonplace for the hybrid femme fatale character to be wearing her own Louboutins. Take, for instance, the typical example of Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and The City or Blair Waldorf and Serena Van Der Woodsen from Gossip Girl and most recently, Claire Underwood from House of Cards. So, what we have is millions of women buying into the fascinating history and blatantly sexual and empowering principles of the brand. And why not? But does this carry any relevance for men? With this in mind then, the issue of the success of the menswear side of the
brand takes to the stage. There are the cynics who believe that this success comes only as an outcome of the red soles as the means by which someone can plainly exhibit the brands that they are wearing to the rest of the world; an example perhaps of someone concerned more with the labels, as opposed to the artistic endeavour behind them. This minority example however, does not resonate. Why is wearing a pair of Louboutins scrutinised any more than wearing a logoed t-shirt with the Nike ‘tick’ across its exterior, or the scull-print scarf by Alexander McQueen? In short, it should not be. The designs speak for themselves. Ranging from casual espadrilles with a not-so-casual entry point price tag of £295 to a pair of velour studded high-tops in bright aqua tones to a more conservative Oxford brogue in black velvet; the menswear collection has just as much of the energy and brashness that is identifiable to Louboutin, as its female counterpart. That is not to say that the red sole plays no part in the success of the brand, but it is less about the presence of the red sole itself and more about how the intermittent flashes of colour contribute creatively as one component in a whole ensemble that someone has put together. Fashion is wearable art that incorporates architecture, design and utility in the same place. It is about movement and the famous Louboutin trademark flashes into sight when the wearer is walking. All that the success of the menswear collection will exhibit is that Louboutin created something that no designer had done before.
For the eyes, keep the brows natural as all attention should be focussed on the liner. Firstly, contour the eyelid with a matte, taupe/ grey shade through the crease, before going in with a black kohl pencil. The Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof eyeliner is an intense black and won’t budge all day. Apply liberally to the top lash line and blend with a cotton bud to soften and neaten the edge. To get the iconic feline flick, use a gel eyeliner to trace a thin line along the roots of the lashes, thickening and extending from the outer corner. Use what eyeliner is remaining on the cotton bud to blend lightly along your bottom lash line, leaving the waterline clear. Apply lashings of mascara as well as false lashes if you wish for the ultimate sixties flutter.
Back to the face, BB’s skin always had a sun-kissed glow; as if she had just stepped off a St Tropez beach (she is famed for popularising the bikini after all). Use a warm-toned bronzer through the back of the cheek bones, temples and forehead. For something typically French and decently priced, try Bourjois’ Delice de Poudre. It looks (and apparently smells) like a chocolate bar. Finish off the cheeks with a peachy blusher. Natural Collection’s blush in Peach Melba is the perfect matte sixties shade, and an absolute bargain at just £1.99. Finally: the lips. Trace your lip line with a nude lip liner to enhance the shape and mimic Brigitte’s signature pout, then follow with a nude lipstick. Try MAC lipstick in Myth for the perfect matte pout.
Images: Boots, MAC Cosmetics Other images: Writer’s own
ISSUE 16/ 3rd March 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Editors: Robbie Davidson, Sophie James and Angus Harrison Top 5
TOP
Hollywood rip-offs from Asian Cinema
5
Suraj Vara runs down the worst offences of American cinematic imperialism 5. The Departed (2006) / Infernal Affairs (2002) Martin Scorsese’s film about a cop infiltrating a notorious gang, and a gang member infiltrating the police force was inspired by Chinese hit film, Infernal Affairs, and was credited at the Academy Awards ceremony where The Departed won Best Picture.
4. The Hunger Games (2010)/ Battle Royale (2000) I know what you’re going to say: “Hunger Games was a book first anyway!” Well I’m sorry to say that Battle Royale AND its sequel both predate that Hunger Games books and films by almost a decade. Sorry Katniss but Japanese kids were murdering each other long before you got your hands on a Bow
3. The Magnificent Seven (1960)/ Seven Samurai (1954) We have a couple of oldies here, proving that Hollywood has been copying ideas from the East years! Both films feature a sextuplet of mean fighting warriors employed to protect a small village… what more can I say?
2. The Ring (2002)/ Ringu (1998) This is one of the more famous copies from Eastern Cinema to Hollywood screens, one which inspired the remaking of other Japanese horror films like The Grudge. The Ring was a complete shot by shot remake of its Japanese counterpart and grossed $120m at the box office inspiring a further release of the Japanese original with the tagline “The original movie that inspired The Ring”, I guess they’re a bit bitter.
1. Reservoir Dogs (1992)/ City on Fire (1987) This is probably my favourite copy in the list and therefore number 1! Chow Yun-Fat, before his glamorous Hollywood blockbusters, starred in this suspicion filled film about a group of gangsters who… well, you know the story. You can’t go far without someone saying that Tarantino borrows from other films and this one is no different.
Feature
the FEATURE:
The McConaissance
Film Editor Robbie Davidson details Matthew McConaughey’s dramatic career revial, and wonders if there’s hope for other Hollywood heartthobs looking for critical acclaim If you go on YouTube you can find a video of Matt Damon on the David Letterman show talking about Matthew McConaughey from about four years ago. During the interview, Damon does a spot-on impression of McConaughey, on a fictional film set, asking his director if the scene they’re about to shoot would be a good opportunity for him to take his shirt off. McConaughey and Damon are old friends, and his impression, whilst hilarious, is not-mean spirited at all, but it did reflect the widely held view of McConaughey at the time: shallow southern charm, oiled in an air of self-satisfaction and devoid of any sort of artistic integrity. Yet as you read this there is every chance that McConaughey has just won the Academy Award for Best Actor, in a fitting end to what has been a remarkable cinematic renaissance. But how did everything go so right for McConaughey? Whilst Matt Damon’s impression was intended to be light hearted, to me McConaughey represented everything which I hated about Hollywood. As a mainstay of frivolous action adventure movies and awful romantic comedies, he became the actor I would often cite in arguments as evidence that Hollywood was more concerned with aesthetics than talent. A film with Matthew McConaughey was almost assuredly going to be terrible, and should be avoided accordingly. Obviously not everyone shared my view, as the box office receipts for his movies demonstrated that he still had major pulling power, despite a lack of any discernable talent. Some people pointed to some of his early performances in the likes of Richard Linklater’s Dazed and Confused, or the John Grisham courtroom thriller, A Time to Kill, as proof that he was capable of turning in a good performance. Whilst admittedly these weren’t bad performances,
Preview
the PREVIEW:
they did not justify the career longevity he enjoyed subsequently, and made his appearances in the likes of The Wedding Planner and Ghosts of Girlfriends Past all the more shameful. So why did he decide to make a change? His absence from our screens was a largely selfimposed one- not necessitated by a major scandal
or sudden decline in popularity. And as he told journalists at a press conference in in London last month I attended, “somewhere in that impasse, which was about a year and a half, to two years, where nothing came it. Somewhere in there, I think in retrospect I can say safely, that I gained some anonymity by being in the shadows, and I became a fresh idea to people”. McConaughey described that after twenty-two years in the industry he wanted to “recalibrate”, and he made a “conscious decision to say I don’t feel like doing some of the roles that were similar to what I had been doing”. His career move
Pompeii
No warning. No escape. So says Pompeii’s poster tagline. Milo (Kit Harrington) is a slave turned invincible gladiator in the city of Pompeii AD79 where Mount Vesuvius has just erupted leaving chaos in its wake. He is in a race against time to save his beloved Cassia (Emily Browning), betrothed to Corvis (Kiefer Sutherland), a corrupt Roman Senator. Here we have a film that is claiming to tick a whole host of genre boxes: action, adventure, drama, history and romance. There are few films that can balance so much well; naturally one aspect is likely to fall behind others. Most will at least make an adequate attempt, but here we have something that looks like a serious misstep. Its narrative as a whole seems an absolute mess from the trailer and the general description that has been given of the film. Just because it is based on a real event (we’ll come back to this), doesn’t mean that you have to give everything away. I feel like after watching the trailer I’ve seen everything the film has to offer. What must be its big set piece finale is the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and yet we’ve already seen its damage. It almost seems like there is such a flimsy story line that they will have 90 minutes of the 105 total being a huge explosion with Kit Harrington running
paid off and he was suddenly a fresh idea to the likes of Steven Soderbergh and William Friedkin. In Magic Mike he demonstrated for the first time some genuine acting chops- with his shirt on and off. In Friedkin’s Killer Joe, McConaughey’s old Texan charm disguises hitman Joe’s rotten core. McConaughey, quietly at first, established himself as not only a serious actor, but a seriously good one. When I stumbled upon The Lincoln Lawyer, I was taken aback by how capably he held the film’s courtroom scenes together. Here was Matthew McConaughey, an actor I had practically reviled, putting in a properly convincing performance, whilst still recognisably the same actor. That’s not to say vanity prevented him from making any major physical transformations. He lost a staggering three stone to portray Ron Woodroof in Dallas Buyers Club, and gave a performance which has been universally acclaimed and brought him his lost weight in awards. McConaughey has certainly proven his doubters, and has converted me to an ardent fan. His return to blockbusters at the end of the year, in Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, is my most anticipated film of the year, in no short part due to McConaughey’s presence. So what does his career renaissance show us? That with enough commitment and the right material any actor can totally reinvent themselves? Is there hope that one day Gerard Butler might star in a gritty biopic of Alex Salmond? Perhaps it’s as simple as McConaughey described it, “You get one first chance, and I’m in the same book, just a different chapter”. Robbie Davidson
Director: Paul W. S Anderson Starring: Kit Harrinton, Emily Browning and Kiefer Sutherland Released: 2nd May 2014
around with his top off. Now lets move on to the fact it’s branding itself as an historical film. Is it expecting us to learn something from it? The director Paul W. S Anderson
seems to think so saying it will be different from 300 or Immortals because “they’re not real; they
operate in a kind of comic book world.” I completely agree, although 300 does hold some marginal facts, it cannot be seen as an historical film. Anderson seems to think that his will be more than just a “stylish” film, and I guess he’s hoping to offer something different. There is nothing particularly wrong with using a past event and shaping a film round it but there’s no point pretending that it’s not just a film. I can’t imagine many people watched Titanic (1997) and thought they came out well educated about the year 1912. Other work by Anderson has prided itself on the tough female characters that the action is mainly centered on. From the description given it seems this has been lost in his latest offering, Emily Browning having seemingly little to do other than wait on Harrington to save her. Say what you want about the film Sucker Punch, but at least it attempted to give the female characters something to do. I would much rather see a film led by Babydoll supported by Jon Snow and Jack Bauer than what seems to be offered here. You have been warned. You can escape.
Lloyd Hammett
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Film
19
Review
theREVIEW: A New York Winter’s Tale Mercedes Antrobus, contemplates top Hollywood writer Akiva Goldsman’s first foray in the director’s chair When Martin Scorsese deems a motion picture “unfilmable” you would think every other director would follow his lead and walk away as well. Nevertheless, Akiva Goldsman clearly disagreed and instead tried to turn Mark Helprin’s critically acclaimed novel, A New York Winter’s Tale, into another one of his Hollywood masterpieces. To be fair (and to buffer the blows that are yet to come), the actors did their best. Colin Farrell’s thief turned lovesick miracle worker, Peter Lake, definitely rallied the sympathies of the female audience; while Russell Crowe, as always, took on the role of Pearly Soames with such vigour that you quickly forgot you once loved him in The Gladiator. However, the praises stop here. To begin, Will Smith as Lucifer? Really? Goldsman prefers to work with actors he knows, but this was a bad casting decision on all fronts and proves you shouldn’t hire friends and expect good results. Will Smith is a brilliant actor and we all know he’s capable of a lot more than Will in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, but every time he appeared on screen I expected him to start bobbing his head along to the show’s iconic theme tune.
Secondly, Colin Farrell’s Irish accent? Obviously it wasn’t bad, seeing as he’s Irish, but it had no place in this film. He was supposed to be an orphaned Eastern European boy who had lived in New York for his whole life; shouldn’t it have been American? In the past, Farrell has taken on countless roles with a perfect American accent, which makes me wonder whether there was some logical explanation for it that got left on the cutting room floor? Or did Goldsman just think we wouldn’t notice? However, the real problem with this film was its inability to make the novel’s magical realism plausible on screen. Back in the ‘80s when his book was released and voted one of the 22 best pieces of American fiction, Helprin was praised for his portrayal of the fantastic as conceivable in our contemporary world, but that was definitely not the case in this film. Peter Lake instantly falling in love with Beverly Penn was ludicrous and I couldn’t help but be as disinterested by it all as the old man, who, like the audience, is forced to hear Lake pine on and on over his new love. Then, when you finally come to terms with the absurdity of it and start to feel like
you may actually be enjoying the film, a magical flying horse appears and jerks you right back into your pool of utter disbelief. And this just keeps on happening for the next 118 minutes: Hans Zimmer’s score pulls you in, your emotions are peaked and then “BOOM!” magical Pegasus is bounding across the screen again. I’m guessing this worked in the novel, but on screen it didn’t have the
Cornerhouse Pick of the Week
Only Lovers Left Alive Leo Mates reviews Jim Jarmusch’s love story with a bite and discovers something nocturnal but resoundingly human
Only Lovers Left Alive, Jim Jaramusch’s new film, had reportedly been in development for seven years prior to its release, as Jaramusch had struggled to gain any significant financing up until now. But thank god he’s managed to, because this film is absolutely beautiful, and that doesn’t just go for certain aspects of it, the ENTIRE film is beautiful. It tells the story of two vampire lovers, Adam and Eve (Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton) who live in Detroit and Tangiers, respectively. The two of them are presented as living a life just outside of humanity, observing and commenting, but having very little interaction with it. This is despite the fact that Adam is a guitarist whose music is gaining a cult following, one that he wants nothing to do with. Music is a huge part of this film. Hiddleston’s character is obsessed with instruments, and regularly mentions the various musicians he’s either worked with or never met, and a lot of the film uses Adam’s music as its backing track. On occasion, the film even stops for significant periods of time for a musical interlude from some singer or band that
happens to be in the vicinity of the characters, and it’s a real testament to Jaramusch’s skill that this never feels unnecessary or contrived. Visually, the style comes down somewhere between post-apocalyptic and gothic, with the setting of a gutted, burnt out Detroit providing both a melancholy and also somehow epic backdrop. The characters, ageless, wise immortals that seem to be teetering on the edge of extinction are wonderfully reflected by the dying city around them. Which brings us to the issue of this being a vampire film. Let’s face it, vampire films have been overdone recently, with a disproportionate amount being either brainless comedies or tween romances. To be perfectly honest, when I first heard that this was a “vampire film” it put me off, just a little bit. However, I needn’t have worried. The actual vampire aspect is done in an incredibly classy way, and is more akin to a classic Dracula film than anything twilight related. What we even get is a brand new take on the bloodsucking mythos, as we see the vampires living through their equivalent of STDs, as contaminated blood is becoming more of an issue for them. Overall, this film manages to walk the line between arthouse and mainstream perfectly. It’s arty, without being inaccessible, and the cast are so perfectly suited to their roles it’s unreal. I don’t know how much work Hiddleston and Swinton would have had to do together to be able to pull off the deep-seated love their characters obviously have for each other, but whatever they did, it worked, because their chemistry is a delight to watch, with both actors being right at the top of their games right now. Leo Mates
Director:Akiva Goldsman Starring: Colin Farrell, Russell Crowe,Jessica Brown Findlay Released: 21st February
same effect and everything just felt a bit too ridiculous to make you care about the underlying message. It would seem Hollywood’s obsession with turning every bestselling novel into a film may have finally reached its limit, at least when it comes to magical realism.
The trend of single camera, faux documentary sitcoms is currently enjoying massive success with shows The Office US and Modern Family, but one show stands out from them all, Parks and Recreation. For the fans of The Office US, this should be at the top of your watch list as it has the same producers and an eerily familiar feel. Fronting it is SNL legend and Upright Citizens Brigade founder, Amy Poehler. You might know her as Regina’s mum in Mean Girls. She carries a strong cast including Rob Lowe, Aubrey Plaza, Aziz Ansari very well, and never lets us forget that she is hilarious. Her character Leslie Knope is one of the most positive and friendly on TV, but this is never to her detriment. The sharp writing ensures we understand the faults and many imperfections of the characters, and make the fictional town of Pawnee a very real world. After struggling with ratings in the first 6 episode season, it has now really come into its own. There is so much clever humour and so many subtle moments in this show that every time you watch it, you see something new. If you’re not ready to let go of The Office just yet I would definitely recommend you give Parks and Recreation a try. (BBC iPlayer). On TV this week, one to catch up on will definitely be The 85th Academy Awards. Unlike other years, there aren’t any massively clear frontrunners, so we could have some surprise wins. If, like me, the red carpet is more your deal, make sure you check out E! Live from the Red Carpet which is repeated throughout the week, and for a full red carpet breakdown, watch Joan Rivers’ always hilarious Fashion Police (E!). Andriana Hambi
Mercedes Antrobus
Contrary Corner
“I am not famous anymore” Tom Bruce defends the actor who is turning celebrity on it’s head for the Shia hell of it Shia LaBeouf. Child actor turned Hollywood superstar. Tooth puller. Beard grower. Bag wearer. Artist. Plagiarist. Cannibal. Ok, so perhaps allegations of LaBeouf’s carnivorous activities are the fictitious invention of an extremely catchy YouTube song called ‘Actual Cannibal Shia LaBeouf ’, but the rest of those titles are valid. Beloved of 90’s kids everywhere, the 27 year old Californian got his break in the Even Stevens show before bagging his first movie lead with Holes in 2003. Since then, LaBeouf has gone on to work with the biggest names in Hollywood; he’s been directed by heavyweights Spielberg and Stone and shared screen time with legends like Harrison Ford, Will Smith and Michael Douglas. After 16 years in showbiz, it seems as though Shia has decided to push his career to the next level, Joaquin Phoenix style. It all began in December of last year, when Shia’s short film Howard Cantour.com turned out to be a shamelessly unaccredited adaptation of a comic by Daniel Clowes. Rumbled and humbled, LaBeouf hit Twitter to make his amends to Clowes, but it soon emerged that the apologies were directly lifted from internet message boards. Next there came ‘sky writing’ apologies and the firm announcement that he would be withdrawing ‘from all public life’, accompanied with the hashtag #iamnotfamousanymore. LaBeouf’s red carpet appearance at the Berlin premiere of Nymphomaniac highlights his irrefutable intelligence. Dressed in a sharp tux, Shia wore a bag on his head bearing the words ‘I Am Not Famous Anymore’. The press (and of course the internet) went wild, a frenzy which was further fuelled by his re-enactment of Eric Cantona’s seagull speech. Such stunts are evidently pre-planned, and Shia has pulled them off with a tactician’s precision, generating unprecedented interest in him and his films. His brilliant self-awareness was proven yet again with the #iamsorry exhibition, in which he allowed gawkers to make fools of themselves while he stared silently through his custom paper bag. LaBeouf ’s supposedly English accent in In
Lars Von Trier’s new film Nymphomaniac is undoubtedly his pièce de résistance; in a four hour movie about sex addiction, his pronunciation of words like ‘fiver’ and ‘knickers’ are the most memorable things in it. Contemporaries Seth Rogen and Emile Hirsch, among others, have gone public with their disapproval of Shia’s childlike behaviour, but actor/artiste James Franco has written a New York Times article defending him. Franco understands the pressures that come with international fame, and he applauds Shia for tearing down ‘the public creation that constrains him’. La Beouf is just a guy making the most of his position, and he has turned a mirror on the superficial media-conglomerate. The ridiculously overblown reaction to Shia’s fairly inconsequential behaviour proves just how shallow show business really is. Tom Bruce
20 14
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Guidance and nomination forms available at www.manchesterstudentsunion.com/teachingawards
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/TheMancunion: Books @MancunionBooks
Editors: Esmé Clifford Astbury, Annie Muir Feature
My first time: reading at an open-mic night Alex Webb shares his experience of performing his poetry at an open-mic night for the first time, and encourages others to do the same moral support way ahead of the 8pm start and settled down at the back. At 10pm I was on, after an amazing reggae/blues performance by Calypso George (a Jamaican man who sang us songs about parrots telling him that his wife is cheating on him… seriously).
Reciting poems brings them into a new light, and a good reading really shows a poet’s skill. Poetry is at its best when read aloud, showcasing the emotional involvement the writer has with a piece. Here the genre becomes a vulnerable and earnest art. Reading a political poem gives you a good idea about the piece but hearing it brings the content into the room.
11 hours and 70 photobooth videos later I was ready to go on stage, a little sick of my poems.
With this in mind and following my experience of spoken word poets two weeks ago I felt inspired to try it myself at Withington’s Solomon Grundy. Getting ready for the event was the hardest part of the day, having only decided to join the line up 12 hours before the event. Reciting your work back to yourself helps establish a good tempo and clear delivery. These are vital for the spoken word, and I practiced by recording my recital. Being brutal with yourself is fundamental to getting better and it improves delivery no end. 11 hours and 70 photobooth videos later I was ready to go on stage, a little sick of my poems. I arrived with a friend for
I’d survived my first spoken word night and I am already looking for more. The experience really liberated my writing, and I would encourage anyone who is undecided about whether to try this to just jump in. I had not really felt nervous the whole time until my name was called, when my hands started shaking uncontrollably. I took to the microphone and introduced myself. Talking before starting my pieces really calmed me down, and, after
a brief introduction to the first piece, I began. As I am sure a lot of humanity/drama students have been told, “people will feel like you are ignoring them if you do not look at them,” and this was my biggest challenge. Holding tight to my paper and hiding behind it definitely seemed easier than projecting to a crowd, but it was important to take a breath, look to the audience and speak. After a relatively successful first reading I moved onto the second piece, a response to the Sochi Winter Olympics and Russia’s attack on the LGBTQ community, which drew a stronger response (thankfully, all applause). I thanked the crowd and went to take my seat and listened to the rest of the night with other amazing offerings from other young writers like myself. I’d survived my first spoken word night and I am already looking for more. The experience really liberated my writing, and I would encourage anyone who is undecided about whether to try this to just jump in. It is one of the most rewarding things you can do.
Books
21
A Message for Russia and the Sochi Winter Olympics Let’s unite the world under the greatest nation: Earth, join hands and celebrate the nature of our games. “…But not you. We will harass and bludgeon you for breathing. Don’t think you’re free, you’re a stain on our profile and we’re the bleach.” Move your fingers, they’re grimy. Get used to that feeling Sochi, evil doesn’t wash out easily and your overcoat is trailing in our blood. ‘Hot. Cool. Yours.’ You said this was “our” games, but you’re the familycheater. We play fair whilst you load your dice like a bullet in a gun. Run for your lives, they’re shooting. Let’s unite the world under the greatest nation: Earth, Why don’t you celebrate and hear the screams of your youth? A. Webb Review
Brand New Ancients Evelyn Barrett spent her Friday night at the Contact Theatre watching Kate Tempest’s modern-day myth
A huge thank you to the M20 Collective, Joel White and the UoM Creative Writing society for giving me this opportunity.
Review
Classics digested: Doctor Faustus 450 years after Christopher Marlowe’s birth, Paul Reilly examines Marlowe’s dramatization of the Faust legend
WHO is the author?
WHAT is it about?
By the time of his death aged just 29 years old, Christopher Marlowe (born 450 years ago last month) had established himself as the foremost Elizabethan tragedian of his day. Marlowe was held in high regard by some rather illustrious contemporaries. Shakespeare, whose work he had a significant influence upon, pays homage to Marlowe by referencing him several times in As You Like It, and Ben Jonson wrote of “Marlowe’s mighty line.” The question of how great a playwright Marlowe might have become had he not died so young is a tantalising one; Shakespeare’s widely regarded pre-eminence amongst dramatists may have been in jeopardy. As it is, we will just have to make do with the seven fascinating plays Marlowe left behind.
Doctor Faustus is believed to be the first dramatization of the Faust legend in which a man sells his soul to the devil in exchange for power and knowledge. In the play, Faustus, believing he has exhausted every subject of conventional human study, decides that the study of magic with a view to summoning Lucifer is the only thing left for him to do. Faustus achieves his goal and makes a pact: He is to be allotted 24 years of life on Earth, during which time he will have the lesser devil Mephistophilis as his personal servant. At the end he will give his soul over to Lucifer as payment and spend the rest of time damned to hell. Unfortunately for Faustus, by the subtle trickery of Mephistophilis he ends up wasting the 24 years, doing nothing of note and eventually realising he’s been had. When Faustus’ time is
WHY
read it? up, Mephistophilis carries him off to hell.
should you
In beautifully poetic and metaphorical language, Marlowe’s dramatization of the deal-with-the-devil legend engages with serious subjects such as the quest for knowledge, religion, the nature of sin and the purpose of human life. At the same time, the play is highly comical; each ‘serious’ scene is followed by one which parodies the complex philosophical issues of the last, helping the play to achieve a satisfying balance of gravity and lightness.
Hell is just a frame of mind
Kate Tempest, Photo: Paul Blakemore
When asked by a friend what it was I was going to watch at the Contact Theatre on Friday night, it was difficult to give a decent response. My answer turned out something like ‘it’s sort of stories and poems set to music’ – a woefully inadequate description of something so overwhelmingly powerful. Brand New Ancients by Kate Tempest tells the tale of two families in SouthEast London, who struggle through life, living in a culture that worships ‘false idols’ (celebrities) as gods. The medium and performance are at once strikingly new and innovative, while also being within the ancient tradition of oral epic poetry, fitting the subject matter (a modernday myth) perfectly. The score accentuates the rhythm and perfect metre of the poem, exhibiting Tempest’s remarkable skill and talent, and harking back to her roots in hip-hop. The fable-like moral of the poem, repeated in its chorus, is that we are all gods, and that recognition of this fact, and greater empathy towards each other, is necessary in order to move forward into
a better future. This might at first sound like a sickly U2 lyric, however, told through Tempest’s epic poetry, it is completely fresh. As the title suggests, the characters are modelled on famous ancient ones, some explicitly named (for example, Mary is called a ‘modernday Medea’), while others are less obvious. Clive and Spider, for example, could be modelled on Hector and Paris, while Gloria might even be Athena, but recognising this is relatively insignificant, meaning it’s never alienating or stuffy as a result of its ancient references. It is also worth noting that none of the characters lead unusual lives, and the story is not a rare one, but the message, that our lives can be as remarkable as those recorded in ancient myth, is profoundly clear and beautifully told.
Brand New Ancients is available to buy in print at katetempest.co.uk.
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Editors: Ben Walker, Maddy Hubbard Review
Feature
you Ask
we ANSWER ...who are the best foodies to follow on twitter?
Subterranean Drinking James Jackman explores the cosy underground drinking den that is Oxford Road’s Temple Bar, and comes away content. It sits on Oxford Road, but you’ve probably walked past it countless times. You’ve most probably seen it and wondered what it was, but never really had the urge to find out. You may have thought about the name as well“The Temple”, an intriguing name, in an interesting location. I decided it was time to check it out.
I used to find Twitter extremely baffling, a kind of narcissistic version of Facebook where everyone just spoke about themselves all the time! But after a bit of effort and searching I discovered the wonders of the Twitter foodie community - bloggers, chefs, restauranteurs and journalists that help you to fritter away countless hours drooling over food porn or reading about the restaurant scene in Peru (thriving, it turns out. Check out Martin Morales). Here is my rundown of the most entertaining/ informative/ talented foodies out there:
Photo: @famouseats
@JayRayner1 - “Eats, writes about it. Ponces about on telly. Has big hair.” Sums it up really. The Observer critic and friend of Caitlin Moran is well worth following. @MalcolmEggs - “All the Breakfast That’s Fit to Tweet. Buy The Breakfast Bible (http://amzn.to/ YHJwPt ). Editor of The London Review of Breakfasts. @sebemina’s alter eggo.” This pun loving blogger can be relied on to retweet anything remotely breakfast related that appears on the twittersphere, from film quotes to pancakes in the shape of Darth Vader
I had just finished for the day, 5PM on a Friday and I needed a drink. Desperate for somewhere new, I had a wander up Oxford Road, away from the SU and my usual haunts. I’d heard of Temple before, that it prides itself on its beer collection, that it used to be a public toilet, and that it is a place which really has a soul. Immortalised in the song “Grounds for Divorce” by Elbow, Temple is the “hole in my neighbourhood”, which sits in the middle of the road and its entrance looks inconspicuous and unassuming. Stepping down the stairs, I walked in and took in the surroundings. A narrow room, with walls papered with flyers and posters of bands and gigs, the seats full of people who had come to relax. While it was small, the crowd of those who had just finished work had the effect of amplifying its size, making it seem bigger than you’d think. Moving my way up to the bar at the other end, I saw why this place prided itself on its alcohol collection. The list wasn’t just another poster on the wall, it takes pride of place. The bottle selection had something for everyone, from everywhere it seemed, so it was the perfect place for someone who wants to try something other than lager, somebody who plans to get into the world of ale, or those who want to indulge in the pleasantries of cider. It was a journey of the world, expressed through drinks. The bottles of cider and ale were roughly £3.50 each. Expensive though it may seem, bear with me; If you are having a drink which you’re not likely to find easily elsewhere, then in my opinion it’s worth the extra cost (for a couple of drinks anyway).
Feature
my
I got a British ale and stood to the side (it didn’t take long to get there, it is very narrow). A fly on the wall, I stood and I was inadvertently listening to several conversations at once. This added to the feeling of the place, you could quite happily be there for a while and listen in on people’s lives. But soon enough my glass was empty and I decided to go, but not before swearing to myself I would be back.
DAY ON A PLATE:
Josephine Harrington talks us through a hungover Sunday and an evening of entertaining.
@HollowLegs - “Food. Drink. Swears. Mainly Asian. South East London. That kind of thing.” Awesome blogger from London @FamousEats - “Food that’s fully DTF” Food porn at its finest from Manchester’s very own Almost Famous, don’t look at this when hungry. @FoodCycleManc - “Volunteers reclaim surplus food that would otherwise be wasted and cook it into tasty, healthy meals for people in need. Currently serving Wednesday at 7:30pm.” Feel virtuous and get involved with something interesting through Twitter. @Foodepedia - “Can’t tweet, eating.” Nothing in the food world happens without them knowing about it I should warn you, the foodie world on Twitter seems pretty much never-ending and it quickly becomes quite an addictive method of procrastination! Oh, and I thought it would sound a little arrogant to put us in the main section you can tweet us at @maddylaura and @TheMancunion Maddy Hubbard
I found Temple to be a small haven of variety and somewhere you could go at the end of the day and try some new flavours in a fresh environment. If you are going with friends, you may want to go earlier in the week when it is a little quieter, just so you can grab a seat. So the next time you wander past that mysterious white cover in the middle of the road, stop for a moment and have a look inside. You won’t regret it.
However, outright laziness was not really an option today because my plans for Sunday included cooking for friends. If you get everyone to throw in a couple of quid and bring a bottle it makes a lovely meal, even more so on a Sunday when you can feel a bit lonely and lacking in home comforts. On the menu tonight was fish pie; nothing in the world screams comfort like a good old pie.
• ‘LUNNER’ • • BREAKFAST • What I have for breakfast, and indeed whether I have Breakfast at all, very much depends on what time I get up. If it is to be classed as breakfast, it is before 11.00. After 11.00 I tend to hold out for an early lunch.
• LUNCH • As is not uncommon, I started the day slightly hungover and with very little energy or motivation to prepare myself anything fancy—so it seemed very much like a cereal job. A bowl of Sainsbury’s Basics Muesli and a chopped apple and multiple brews, have today, as have always, sufficiently lined my stomach.
Like brunch but between lunch and dinner. After doing some university work and a lengthy walk to Sainsbury’s I needed more energy. This came in the form of grilled cheese and chutney on toast. Once one side of the bread is toasted, flip
it over and smear some chutney before layering on the cheese and grilling to molten perfection.
• DINNER • The mighty fish pie, true to student form, was made with all Sainsbury’s Basics fish. However, it was still pretty damn good, if I may withhold a little modesty. Asparagus was on offer too so a really trendy vegetable dressed the plate as the accompaniment. Washed down with large quantities of reduced Merlot also helped the evening go with a bang.
Food & Drink 23 our RECIPE OF THE WEEK & THE WINE LIST /TheMancunion: Food & Drink @maddylaura
Feature
Recipe
American Pancakes
Photos: Flickr (Ludvajz)
Victor Croci
Do you know your Rioja from your Riesling? This week, Mancunion Wine Columnist Victor Croci offers his advice on navigating the alien world of the restaurant wine list
Photo: 15thon15th.com Welcome back readers! This week our erratic and unorthodox little wine column will be provide a step by step guide to reading the standard restaurant wine list. Contrary to the unbothered, disinterested, wealthy troglodyte on the table next to you, who just dabs his podgy forefinger at whatever French sounding wine came out the same year as the spice girls – Chateau de la Shithole 1994 – for instance; there is an art to reading a wine list. Here are a few basic steps to avoid making a costly error whilst in esteemed company… and with a pinch of luck choosing a quaffable bottle to compliment your dinner or lunch. If you find yourself musing over ‘la carte des vins’ at breakfast, you may have a few issue.
Photo: Ben Walker
Ben Walker has the perfect recipes if you fancy trying something different this pancake day...
• 1. 2. 3.
4.
METHOD Add all the dry ingredients into a bowl and whisk in the eggs and incrementally add the milk and the syrup. Once well combined and light, ladle your mixture into a hot pan into which you have put a little oil and butter.
• INGREDIENTS • 300g self-raising flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon caster sugar 2 medium eggs 300ml milk 1 tablespoon maple syrup (and lots extra to serve) Small pinch of salt 3 rashers of bacon per person Blueberries Icing sugar (optional)
For the typical high sided cakes you will need a frying pan that is small in diameter. Once little bubbles form on the top, flip your pancake.
For finesse dust with a little icing sugar.
6.
Serve the maple syrup in a jug on the side and only pour on immediately before eating to avoid any sogginess.
10 mins Serves 6
Secondly: What exactly are you looking for? Thirdly: How are you going to find it? The standard wine list, not that one exists, generally consists of the boring red/white dichotomy – rosé is taboo in most reputable establishments and not, contrary to urban legend, because it is a mix of both. The reds are usually classified according to the grapes and regions from whence they hail. Naturally the same goes for the white wine. Contrary to popular belief, price is, despite the materialistic world we live in, not a particularly brilliant indicator of value – especially in most restaurants. Do not be that ridiculous bourgeois amateur who clips his fingers at some poor sod working on minimum wage for two of the finest bottles in the establishment’s cellar – unless you’re inviting me out to dinner. So you’ve been perusing the list and something has caught your eye, what do you next? A bottle of wine, just like any other product destined to be sold, has a series of indicators which guide a consumer’s choice. These are, in order of importance; grape, region and year.
To serve, stack your cakes, lay strips of crisp salty bacon on top, scatter blueberries around the edge and the odd one nestled on the stack.
5.
TIME/MAKES •
Firstly: How exactly is the wine list organized?
Photo: Ben Walker
Remember, just look out for the grape variety and then the region which is like the seal of approval. Those two are the most important. Age is a tricky business but 4 years does the trick, at least in the majority of cases. As for price, look at what you can afford and then longingly gaze at what you can’t – it should be all the motivation you need to get a better job. When you do, we’ll be there to raise our glasses to your success – may it last as long as the guilt and regret which befalls he that purchases Echo Falls, whatever the circumstances.
•
GRAPE •
Cabernet, Sauvignon, Malbec, Chablis, etc… They are the most important part of a wine and therefore you should pay particular attention when choosing between them. For instance, Merlot is generally very bitter on the tongue – match this with a low price tag and you’ll find yourself with the equivalent of balsamic vinegar in your glass. Cabernet Sauvignon tends to be a safe bet because of its consistency, which in most cases is immune to price fluctuations. If there is no grape indicated on the wine then it is simply blended house wine: served in a pitcher and lacking all the features which make a wine memorable. Not to treat your (prospective) inlaws to.
•
REGION •
Now this is the really exciting part because the regions a grape variety comes from make a wine authentic or not. For instance, have you ever come across ‘Tempranillo de Wallonia’? Chances are you haven’t or you are a two-faced liar, it doesn’t exist. The region on a wine bottle is what makes the wine’s authenticity. Certain regions are famously linked to certain grape varieties –Argentina’s Mendoza region is famous for Malbec, Central valley in Chile is famous for the strong blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio is planted across north eastern Italy, etc. As a rule of thumb, France is famous for everything. The Rhone valley in particular is a very good choice with little risk – it rarely fails to disappoint.
• AGE •
The maturity of a wine is a very good indicator of what the bottle’s pristine content’s tastes like. Yet in many cases, it can also be hit and miss, with certain years being particularly fruitful whilst others are painfully bland or worse, just disappointingly bitter - Severus Snape in a bottle, for instance. Personally, I would opt for wines that are at least 4 years old, enough maturity for a decent price. If the wine has no year then it is from the current autumn and will almost definitely not taste that good.
•
PRICE •
It is on every person’s mind when choosing a wine in a restaurant, if it isn’t on yours then you’re way below your pay grade reading this article. Start from £25 and adjust for the restaurant’s reputation like central bankers do with inflation down at the Bank of England. Or another useful rule of thumb is to look at what the Echo Falls is priced at and slap a tenner on that to get your starting price. In any case, a touch of common sense and you ought to come to a decent enough estimate of what you are willing to pay in the restaurant you find yourself seated in.
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Arts & Culture
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Editors: Abbie Roberts, Matilda Roberts
Review
Review
the ARTS REVIEW
Alison Goldfrapp: THE
Performer Turned Curator Arts Editor Matilda Roberts visits the Lowry and finds herself fascinated with fairytale fantasy and folklore Fairytale theorist Jack Zipes writes that fairytales ‘symbolize the aspirations, needs, dreams and wishes of common people in a community, either affirming the dominant social values and norms or revealing the necessity to change them’. For Zipes fairytales were altered and used by communities as they were handed down over the centuries for benefit of the community. Fairytales are the subject of the Lowry’s current exhibition curated by Alison Goldfrapp (remember Goldfrapp? ‘Ooh La La’ or ‘Ride a White Horse’?). This is the first in a new initiative of the Lowry’s where they will annually turn a performer into a curator. They intend to bind their space between the performing and visual arts and reflect their space’s fusion of entertainment and arts. Goldfrapp explores relationships between animal and human form, metamorphosis, mystery and darkness and collates representations of traditional fairytales through photography, illustration and painting. Better-known artists such as John Stezaker,
the CLOSE UP Arthur Rackham: Flickr (HumanSeeHumanDo)
Pop-up Whitworth Lotty Adam visits the Pop-Up Whitworth at Selfridges’ Festival of Imagination.
Anna Fox and Allison Goldfrapp (Photo: The Lowry) who uses classic film stills that he has altered using found objects such as postcards, stand alongside more unusual pieces like Revons D’Or, a large-scale work by the Scottish sculptor Anya Gallaccio. Apples dangle from an inverted tree - harking back to the forest myth world and Snow White. A number of personal and borrowed items reveal the singer’s penchant for taxidermy, particularly landscapes populated by children and fantastic creatures, to scenes of horrific terror and carnage depicting young children being tortured and massacred. Darger’s artwork has become one of the most celebrated examples of outsider art. The heroes in this tale are always the children, the villains typically adults. The nakedness of the children exposes their mixed gender, which is a compelling aspect of the artist’s imagery, open to many interpretations. The Realms of the Unreal, has two endings: in one, concluding a series of harrowing trials and complex adventures, the heroic Vivian Girls emerge triumphant, while in the other, they are defeated by the evil Glandelinians. Henry Darger: Flickr (cometstarmoon)
Arthur Rackham (1867-1939) Arthur Rackham is widely regarded as one of the leading illustrators from the ‘Golden Age’ of British book illustration - the years from 1900 until the start of the First World War. He invented his own unique technique, his work is often described as a fusion of a northern European ‘Nordic’ style strongly influenced by the Japanese woodblock tradition of the 19th century. He beautifully captures the fantasy and beauty of the fairytales he illustrates while also managing to portray their darkness and threatening quality.
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SECOND REVIEW
Lotte Reiniger (2 June 1899 – 19 June 1981) Reiniger was a German film director and the foremost pioneer of silhouette animation, anticipating Walt Disney by over 10 years. Her animations of fairytales (such as Hansel and Gretel displayed in this exhibition) call to mind the art works of Kara Walker. The animations show beautiful scenes but their frailty and the shakiness of the animation makes them also Henry Darger (1892 –1973) The Story of the Vivian Girls, in What eerie and frightening. is Known as the Realms of the Unreal, of the Glandeco-Angelinian War Storm, Toshiko Okanoue (1928) Caused by the Child Slave Rebellion, is Making photo-collages while she was studying self-taught artist, Darger’s posthumously fashion drawing in 1950, Japanese artist, discovered 15,000 page piece depicting Okanoue’s, black and white works record her naked children embroiled in fantastical pioneering, pre-pop art experimentation with adventures. A reclusive American writer found magazine images. Echoing the collage and artist the visual subject matter of technique employed by the Dada artists of posthis work ranges from idyllic scenes in war Germany her collages could be read as Edwardian interiors and tranquil flowered curious escapes from post-war Japan.
stuffed owls, but also collections of tiny dogs, bears, horses and even a lock of a great aunt’s hair. I found her selection of artists fascinating and so I have put together a list of those artists that are really worth looking up even if you don’t get a chance to visit the exhibition!
Deborah Turbeville, (1932-2013) American fashion photographer, Turbeville, made a career out of making images that were shrouded in mystery. Originally a fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar, a contemporary of Helmut Newton and Guy Bourdin, whose glossy, sexy and confrontational pictures unsettled the stillstuffy world of fashion. Turbeville’s aesthetic was different – dreamy and mysterious. It doesn’t feel as if you’re invited in to an urban erotic underworld, as with Newton. Instead, hers was a more delicate – more female gaze. Her dark, moody approach to fashion photography, ambiguously positioned between fashion and fine-art photography has had a lasting influence on both fields. Klara Kristalova (1967) Her ceramic sculptures have a fantastical quality while exploring darker narrative. By using traditional myths and fairy tales Kristalova explores memory, trauma, and the lost territory of childhood. Her characters are mostly girls, who morph into flora, fauna, and other natural elements. Marcel Dzama (1974) At first glance Dzama’s playful watercolours look like illustrations for children’s books. Painted in carmines, olives and browns, they’re peopled with elegantly wrought figures and filled with dreamlike pageantry (Dzama keeps a torch and pad by his bed so he can sketch whatever occurs to him in the night). Then you notice how oddly erotic and calmly macabre they are: look closer and the friendly looking personified tree has a man hanging from its b r a n c h .
Marcel Dzama: Flickr (FICG.mx)
Photo: Flickr ( JanetR3) Earlier in February, Selfridges played host to a Pop Up Art Gallery as part of the Festival of Imagination looking into the “great art [that] inspires our imagination and offers a glimpse into the workings of great creative minds.” Displaying 10 prodigious artworks from the Whitworth Gallery’s Collection, Selfridges offered a wonderful cultural interlude to a day’s shopping. Stationed in amongst the designer handbags, glittering jewels and beautifying products, the works of famous British artists were well worth viewing for their comment on the steadily growing impact of the desire for material goods becoming a driving force of our everyday reality - whether it be the lure of flashy designer brands or the smell of expensive leather and luxurious fragrances. I wonder and I invite you to wonder what significance these artworks carry and how they, and the purposes for which they were inspired, have impacted on the society in which they were created and in turn on our society today. As shoppers laden with bags, absent-mindedly chattering about day-to-day fripperies and ogling over row upon row of expensive merchandise and irresistible new gadgets, the artworks bear a strong contrast - one that merits a closer look. There was a stark juxtaposition between the two forms of art which probes a stimulating reflection. The first: endless, intricately designed and jewel encrusted goods – on show to lure in the susceptible shoppers. The other: the glass encased paintings, etchings and artworks by some of our countries greatest artists. Face to face with these works, you might discover an enthusiasm for the inspiring works of art by Great painters such as Lucian Freud, Albrecht Durer, John Ruskin and Pablo Picasso, or yield the inspiration to look at society with fresh eyes as you contemplated the ‘Bullet Drawing’ by Cornelia Parker. The emotionally challenging and personal monotype on paper, ‘Down at the bottom of my soul’, by Tracy Emin, depicts a sense of vulnerability and intimacy in her female figure, and draws from her past traumatic and sentimental experiences. The Whitworth Gallery itself is home to a worthy collection of art works including some prominent names of the Modernist movement, alongside leading Twentieth Century, Surrealist and neo-Romantic artists. The gallery is due to reopen in August 2014 after a serious development programme for an innovative, outdoors gallery space. So be sure to watch out for its reopening and examine the wonders that artistic exploration has to offer.
Theatre
ISSUE 16/ 3rd March 2014 WWW. MANCUNION.COM
Editor: Stephanie Scott Interview
2
What’s on
Review
An Interview With David Acton Carys Lapwood chats to University of Manchester alumna David Acton about comedy, Propeller Theatre Company and his time as a student in Manchester David Acton, star of stage and screen, and UoM alumnus, is currently touring with theatre company, Propeller. Their allmale cast, inventive use of sound, lighting and costume, and high-energy reinventions of Shakespeare plays have earned them a world-renowned reputation and rave reviews. I chatted to David about the company, comedy, and his time as a student at Manchester. C: How does Propeller differ from other theatre companies you’ve worked with? D: Well, Propeller have been around since 1997, and have toured every year. In that time, only around fifty actors have performed with them, so there’s a real sense of the continuity of the work. I was there fifteen years ago, at the very beginning, and have gone back to them for this show. Everyone in the company seems to understand what we’re aiming at. It’s like a shorthand. C: What do you enjoy most about working with Propeller? And what’s it like working as part of an all-male cast? D: It’s a fantastic company! A really happy company…We all get on tremendously well. It’s a real ensemble company, which are rare to find nowadays. I suppose with an all-male cast it can get a little testosterone-led, but a lot of the behind-thescenes roles are filled by women. When we’re on tour, we’re all together, so they make sure we behave ourselves. C: What’s it like working on two plays at the same time? (Propeller are currently touring with “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “A Comedy of Errors”, with the full cast acting in both) D: Well, we rehearsed A Midsummer Night’s Dream first, for five weeks, and then toured with it for five weeks, to make sure we’d got that under our belt. Then we did the same thing with A Comedy of Errors. That one was a bit harder to rehearse, because it’s such a funny play, and to make it funny is quite technical. You really have to follow a beat. By the time you’ve done something fifteen times in rehearsal it doesn’t feel funny anymore, so you just have to trust that the audience will laugh. C: Do you find that, as a touring company, your audiences react differently to the plays in different parts of the country? D: Yes, absolutely. There are always unexpected laughs and unexpected failures, but you definitely get a variety of reactions wherever you perform. It’s interesting that we share so much of our entertainment and media nationally, but communities will still group together to respond in a particular way during a live performance. C: Propeller have built up a great reputation for themselves over the past few years, and their productions always receive very positive reviews. Do you feel a bit more pressure working with them now, to maintain that reputation?
D: I suppose I never thought about it in that one. I hope that one would always do ones best, regardless. Both of the productions we’re touring at the moment are revivals that were first staged a few years ago. I expect with a brand-new production there’d be a bit more pressure. C: What was the drama scene like in Manchester when you were a student here in the early ‘70s? D: The drama department at the university was fantastic. There I was, at 18, innocently out of school, and they introduced us to all of the ages of drama, and all the theories. Students used to show something every Monday night in the Stephen Joseph Studio, whether it was something they’d written, something experimental, or more traditional. It was very loose – there was none of that assessment stuff. C: And finally, do you have any advice for current drama students or aspiring actors at UoM? D: Well, the business seems to get harder and harder. There are more drama schools, more drama students, all going after the same work. I’d say that it’s not a thing to go into unless you’re really sure about it. But, if you know that there’s nothing else you want to do, just go for it! David Acton will be performing in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “The Comedy of Errors” with the rest of Propeller at the Lowry, Wed 26th Feb – Sat 1st March.
MINUTE this WEEK REVIEW
The Good, The God and The Guillotine Based on Albert Camus’ s ‘L’Etranger’, Prototype Theatre’s The Good, The God and the Guillotine is said to resemble a gig, opera and recital in one, and the company’s collaboration with the MMULE certainly captures the absurdity of the novel. However, a theatrical element is missing, and I would not define it as an ‘easy watch’. As innovative and technologically proficient as the play may be it is often difficult to engage. A cinematic quality was created through the use of animation projection on to a gauze curtain, and the lighting boxes imitated the atmosphere of a gig. ‘Chapter One, A Long Walk’ creates an aural nightmare that is seductive, terrifying and Gothic. The performers’ chilling singing gave me chills. However the layers of projections, music, narration and singing was an attack on the senses, and after the initial excitement there came a point where the audience felt the need for the end, before the end was realised. ‘Chapter Two, Her Hand’ did provide some relief to this, the palm trees, sounds of wildlife and projection of water created a dreamy atmosphere which juxtaposed the hyperbolic exposition, just enough to allow the audience a moment to prepare for the sensory onslaught which was to be the remaining forty minutes. Despite my critique of the play, there is no doubt that the cast were highly talented. The use of computer science and theatre was exciting, and the animations of subterranean life by Gregory were fantastic. So too, were the performers, who displayed a fantastic control over voice and physicality. However while each aspect of the performance would have been brilliant in isolation, I personally felt that together it alienated me to the extent that I could not engage with the piece as a whole.
Iona Douglas
My Favourite Scene
my FAVOURITE SCENE Macbeth is, not only one of Shakespeare’s most well known plays, but also an exploration into falsity and truth, appearance and deception, madness and sanity. In this scene, Lady Macbeth shows her duplicity as a character, by displaying the fatigue and nihilism that plagues her behind closed doors, but changing her tune as soon as her husband enters. However, the audience begins to question their view of Lady Macbeth – is her falsity purely malicious, or is she trying to protect Macbeth from the torment that has begun to grip her psyche? SCENE II. The palace. Enter LADY MACBETH and a Servant LADY MACBETH Is Banquo gone from court? Servant Ay, madam, but returns again to-night. LADY MACBETH
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Orlando Based on Virginia Woolf’s extraordinary novel of time travel and gender-swapping, this adaptiation promises to be just as funny and incredible as the original. Sarah Ruhl has adapted the nvoel for the stage and brings it bursting to life - despite the many shocking occurences throughout the story! Runs from the 22nd February to the 22nd March at The Royal Exchange
The Seagull Chekov’s masterpiece of theatre, The Seagull, returns to the stage in an exciting new adaptation by upcoming writer Anya Reiss. Anya is only in her early twenties but has rejuvenated several classic theatre pieces already, to huge critical aclaim. This tale of family, frustrated youth and unrequited love, that has captivated audiences for two centuries will be an umissable production. Runs from the 21st February to the 8th March at The Lowry
The MIFTAS The Drama society’s MIFTA showcase begins this week. Presenting a variety of student performances, the MIFTAS is an unmissable showcase of talent, and a great opportunity to support your fellow students. Various locations from the 19th February to the 23rd March
This week, Theatre Editor, Stephanie Scott tells us about her favourite Shakespeare scene in the chilling tale of Macbeth
Say to the king, I would attend his leisure For a few words. Servant Madam, I will. Exit LADY MACBETH Nought’s had, all’s spent, Where our desire is got without content: ‘Tis safer to be that which we destroy Than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy. Enter MACBETH How now, my lord! why do you keep alone, Of sorriest fancies your companions making, Using those thoughts which should indeed have died With them they think on? Things without all remedy Should be without regard: what’s done is done. MACBETH We have scotch’d the snake, not kill’d it:
She’ll close and be herself, whilst our poor malice Remains in danger of her former tooth. But let the frame of things disjoint, both the worlds suffer, Ere we will eat our meal in fear and sleep In the affliction of these terrible dreams That shake us nightly: better be with the dead, Whom we, to gain our peace, have sent to peace, Than on the torture of the mind to lie In restless ecstasy. Duncan is in his grave; After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well; Treason has done his worst: nor steel, nor poison, Malice domestic, foreign levy, nothing, Can touch him further. LADY MACBETH Come on; Gentle my lord, sleek o’er your rugged looks; Be bright and jovial among your guests to-night.
Let It Be Beatles fans across Manchester unite - The Beatles musical hits The Palace Theatre’s stage with a bang this March. Featuring over 40 of the Beatles greatest hits, this musical promises to be a fun-filled Beatlespacked evening. Relive the Beatles rise to super-stardom and enjoy a night of brilliant music and nostlagic Beatlemania. Runs from the 28th February to the 8th March at The Palace Theatre
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Editors: Lauren Arthur, Moya Crockett, Beth Currall Feature
Travel
Should you be doing a vocational degree?
let’s visit...
If you like the sound of golden beaches, rich culture and fantastic nightclubs, Mexico is the place for you
A recent survey suggests that more and more graduates wish they’d taken a more vocational course at university. Sophie Lipton weighs up the pros and cons
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
In Britain’s current economic climate, jobs have never been harder to attain. As a third year Middle Eastern Studies student this news puts me on edge, because at the end of the day, some may say my degree is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. According to totaljobs.com, “44% of graduates say they regret not studying something more vocational.” I am torn as to whether I might one day be part of this statistic, or whether I’ve studied for the sake of being educated. The skills gained from a non-vocational degree will set me up for the outside world. Personally, I disagree with Mike Fetters, Graduate Director of totaljobs.com, who claims that “although a degree is an essential qualification for some industries, school leavers need to think more carefully about which route to employment is best for them.” Fetters needs to remember the skills learnt in non-vocational degrees are very significant, and he must realise how important education is in our world. Education is priceless, and having an all-rounded educational experience is an investment in itself. Yeah, OK, I may not have a pot of gold (a.k.a. a job) at the end of this academic rainbow, but at least I have been fulfilled with education for three years. This poses the question: what is more important? Education for educations sake, or a job? Personally, education has taught me so much about the world, and has been an essential and integral part of my personality. So in this way, my degree is far from a melting metaphorical teapot. Congratulations if, when every other ten-year-old wanted to be an astronaut, you knew that radiology was the career path for you. You’re one of a lucky minority, and in this circumstance a vocational degree is the way forward. However, for the majority like me, coming to grips with the idea of a full time, 9-to-5 adult job is frightening. There is no harm in exploring the academic realm, opening up more options for a career. In this case, why is education for education’s sake being oppressed in
Mexico
the 21st century? And why are we all running into the job industry so quickly? We’re young, independent 20-somethings who don’t need no guaranteed job! (OK, I may be looking at the world with rose-tinted glasses.) Nevertheless, a job is a necessity for all of us. In reality, a vocational degree is a clever decision. It might reduce the hassle of graduate schemes and internships, particularly when a year of placement is involved. I don’t think there’s anything more useful than hands-on work experience, giving one the skills to advance in an industry. Gaining experience in the workplace can really put someone head and shoulders above a student with no relevant experience. However, a job should be something one enjoys, not just something that pays well, and graduation should mean more than a handshake, a certificate and a key to a new office. If you’re passionate about your vocational subject, great. However, if it is just done with the intention of a job and money, I believe people will be gambling their happiness, which is worth more than wealth. At the end of the day a degree has to be tailored to you and as long as you are stimulated and happy about it, this will lead to a job with the perfect fit. I’m certainly not in any position to tell people that one degree is “better” than another, because it depends on one’s enjoyment. Vocational or non-vocational, your own passion is the most important aspect of a great degree, and this is what will hopefully lead to a successful career.
I have travelled to both Riviera Maya and Cancun and had the time of my life there. Mexico is aesthetically pleasing to say the least: white sand, crystal clear waters and fantastic for its diverse nature and captivating history. The weather is just about as hot as the local cuisine, even in the rainy season, which lasts from May to September – but when it does rain during this time, it pours! However, this usually doesn’t last long at all, and it can be quite a relief after hours of baking in the sun. My favourite thing about Mexico was the activities, my favourite place being Xel-Há, a natural aquarium considered to be one of the thirteen natural wonders of Mexico. This little gem was founded in 1841 and used to be one of the key ports of the Maya city. In Xel-Há there are more than ninety marine species and you can see them for yourself by snorkelling with among them. For the more adventurous, you can also zip line, rope swing or hike through the jungle-like surroundings of Xel-Há and discover more about Mayan culture. There is truly nothing like it! While there, I ticked off a few things off my bucket list, one of them being swimming with dolphins. This was a fantastic experience and I felt so privileged to swim with such beautiful and intelligent animals. Mexico is home to some interesting ancient ruins such as Chichen Itza and Tulum. If you’re into your history, these sites will take you back to the days when the Mayans ruled Mexico. These are just two of the most visited attractions by tourists, and both have a lot of history behind them. Although I did go all-inclusive, as most hotels offer this and it was more convenient, I would encourage anyone to visit the local towns for authentic Mexican cuisine. Food in Mexico is mostly inexpensive and delicious! Taco stands and market stalls are also great places to try some traditional Mexican snacks if you’re feeling peckish after a long day at the beach. Mexican people are very friendly to tourists and a lot of Mexican citizens speak English as well as Spanish. However, it wouldn’t hurt to learn a bit of Spanish (if you don’t already) whilst you’re there! The nightlife in Mexico is my favorite out of anywhere I have been (including Manchester!). Coco Bongo’s nightclub is like a Las Vegas show and a nightclub rolled into one. The price of one ticket entitles transport, entry and an all-youcan-drink open bar– which means plenty of tequila shots. There are flying acrobats, Michael Jackson and Britney Spears tributes, confetti, soap bubbles, balloons and so much more. Coco Bongo’s was famed by the film ‘The Mask’ with Jim Carrey; is there really any better reason to go there? I only visited a small part of Mexico, and I wish I had more time to see more places and do more things. Mexico has a lot to offer and I cannot praise it enough. Amy Bowden
Photo: University of Manchester
Photo: Alejandro Cabrera (Flickr)
Television
Roll out the red carpet... it’s awards season
Every year, people are gripped by the buzz of “awards season.” Hannah McGrory wonders just what it is that makes these ceremonies so compelling Whether it’s the glitz and glamour of the elaborate red carpet fashion that captivates you, or simply the competitive backing of your favourite celebrity, the fact is, us Brits (along with - of course - a fair few Americans) have a somewhat unhealthy obsession with awards shows. With last weekend’s Oscars marking the end of “awards show season”, it feels like an apt occasion to fully dissect what it is about events such as the Golden Globes, the Brits, the BAFTAs and the Academy Awards that enables them to grip not just one nation, but several. Possibly the most iconic part of an awards show is the illustrious red-carpet walk that precedes it. It is essentially an unabashed procession of wealth and self-acknowledged attractiveness, and so of course, it sends social media and fashion journalists alike into a wild frenzy. From “best-dressed” to “what was she thinking?!”, red carpet looks certainly get the public talking, something that does not go unnoticed by fame-hungry celebrities. Who can forget Angelina Jolie’s leg-baring ensemble at the 2012 Academy Awards, which caused so much stir that it immediately warranted its own Twitter account (@ AngiesRightLeg –unfortunately no longer available, much to everyone’s great dismay)? Or my personal favourite, the 2011 Grammy Awards, when Lady Gaga did her entire red-carpet appearance incubated within a giant egg? Genius. Aside from the customary celebrity parade, another captivating practice of any award show is the acceptance speeches. While many follow the same monotonous lines (“Thanks Mum, thanks manager”), occasionally a gem emerges, leaving you thrilled and
Photo: Getty Images
Photo:Such ChillaMimi(Flickr) quite often gobsmacked. phenomenon was epitomised at the 2009 MTV VMAs, when shy and retiring Kanye West barged his way on stage during Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech for ‘Best Female Video’ to announce his displeasure at the choice, declaring to an astounded audience that the VMA should have gone to Beyoncé instead. Outrageously cringe-worthy, but oh-so fabulous to watch. And of course, who could forget the awards show hosts? Employed to hold the show together and keep it running smoothly, the host is the audience’s personal guide to the proceedings, but are often notorious for over-stepping the mark. Prime example: the one, the only, Ricky Gervais. Not exactly renowned for being a wallflower, Gervais had people all over the world aquiver following his Golden Globes hosting gig. Successfully managing to insult as many celebrities in the room as possible, Gervais caused controversy with gags such as referring to Bruce Willis as “Ashton Kutcher’s Dad” and backhandedly slamming Johnny Depp’s movie The Tourist as not being worthy of its nomination. Still, he must have done something right, as they invited him back the following year – controversy sells! From fashion, to tongue-in-cheek hosts, to a simple display of rivalry, award shows have us hooked. From the Golden Globes to the Grammys, people all over the world tune in to see their favourite actors and musicians fight it out (metaphorically speaking, of course), to be celebrated as being at the top of their game. And at the end of the day, us Brits can’t resist a good bit of old-fashioned competition can we?
Lifestyle
/TheMancunion: Lifestyle @MancunionLife
Horoscopes
Your MONTHLY HOROSCOPES
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Careers
the CAREERS INTERVIEW
Where former Manchester students report back from the ‘real world.’ This week, Moya Crockett chats to marketing assistant Stevie Mackenzie-Smith
PISCES (20 FEBRUARY - 20 MARCH) Fish have notoriously bad memories, but unfortunately, “My astrological sign is the fish!” isn’t a good enough reason to miss another important meeting. Get a diary and get your shit together, Pisces. Oh, and happy birthday.
ARIES (21 MARCH - 20 APRIL) There was a time when not even Magic Bus Lady would talk to you, but now you’re strolling through Ali G nodding graciously at your adoring fans like freaking Beyoncé. Enjoy your time in the sun, but remember what Mean Girls taught us: it won’t last.
TAURUS (21 APRIL - 21 MAY) You’ve been daydreaming conspicuously about that attractive person in a particular seminar, but don’t be fooled, Taurus. Open your eyes: it’s not that they’re gorgeous, it’s that everyone else is ugly. The best of a bad bunch shouldn’t be good enough.
GEMINI (22 MAY - 21 JUNE) March looks set to be a month of distinguished red-hot messery from you, Gemini, and frankly we can’t wait. Like Justin Bieber, your ill-advised escapades in pursuit of A Good Time tend to end in embarrassment for you – and great entertainment for us. Keep it up! CANCER (22 JUNE - 22 JULY) If you’re unhappy with your relationship, we strongly recommend that you get a grip and stop whining, because your friends are sick. Of. Hearing. About. It. If you’re single, March is a good month to pounce on anyone you want. You can’t fail. Promise!
LEO (23 JULY - 22 AUGUST) You need to start looking after yourself, Leo. All this smoking, drinking, drugs and rock ’n’ roll can only end one way – and that’s with you looking like Keith Richards’s armpit. Stock up on some green tea, cut out all the shit you consume (legal and otherwise), and generally stop being so gross.
VIRGO (23 AUGUST - 23 SEPTEMBER) Virgo, your symbol isn’t a set of scales for no good reason. It’s time to get your act together and find that work/play balance. Get a diary and start mapping out designated work periods. It’s time to crack town, before tomorrow becomes too late.
LIBRA (24 SEPTEMBER - 23 OCTOBER) You’ve been feeling very run down recently, and over the next couple of weeks you will work out exactly what- or who- is causing this stress. Eliminate all the bad apples from your life, and your mood will rocket.
SCORPIO (24 OCTOBER - 22 NOVEMBER) This month sees a window of opportunity appear for you, mostly associated with work or travel. Go for that internship you thought you weren’t good enough for, or book that trip whether you have the money or not: we’re only young once, Scorpio. SAGITTARIUS (23 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER) You’ve been working hard as per usual, but now’s the time to let your hair down a little bit- it is the middle of the semester after all, you can afford to take a break from studying. Grab a bottle of Sainsbury’s finest vodka and a couple of mates and enjoy yourself.
CAPRICORN (22 DECEMBER - 20 JANUARY) Capricorn, for someone so concerned with finance, you really are letting yourself go. Man up, check your bank balance, and sort your life out. Volunteering for overtime might seem shit right now, but next month you’ll be smug.
AQUARIUS (21 JANUARY - 19 FEBRUARY) The past couple of months have been your time to shine, as the planets have all been in your zodiac, so the next few weeks might be a bit of an anti-climax for you. Just spend your pennies wisely, and don’t be influenced too much by superfluously spontaneous friends.
Photo: Stevie Mackenzie-Smith
Photo: Maria Hyland
Stevie graduated from the University of Manchester in summer 2013, with a 2:1 in American Studies. She currently works as the marketing assistant at Creative Tourist, an arts, culture and travel site for the North of England, and runs lifestyle blog Discotheque Confusion. Did you have any idea what you wanted to do when you graduated? I knew I wanted to work in the arts but assumed it would take a while to find something so intended to wait tables and write and volunteer on the side. What made you decide to stay in Manchester after graduation? I love Manchester; I came to study here for the city and didn’t feel ready to leave it after graduating. It was also somewhere I could afford to stay and support myself financially. Manchester is a great city for people interested in working in the arts. There is a sense of being able to get to know everybody and make progress quickly. I find it more appealing than London for now. It’s a place full of do-ers who won’t let you get lost. What path did you take to get your current job? I applied for an editorial internship at Creative Tourist through the Manchester Graduate Internship Programme. I didn’t get it, but a couple of months after my interview I was asked to join the team in a marketing role instead. What does your role at Creative Tourist involve? Creative Tourist covers arts, culture and travel goings-on from across the North, from the best coffee shops to exhibition openings. We also work lots with arts organisations within Manchester. Because we’re a small team my role is very flexible. I’m involved with the running of campaigns on the website, liaising with our arts partners, generally spreading the word about what we do, researching and helping to develop products like our annual Cultural Calendar, day-to-day social media monitoring and writing articles. What do you most enjoy about your current role? I love working with a group of people who are ambitious and driven by a desire to make the Manchester arts and culture scene dynamic and of international interest. Getting to know more people working within the industry has been great. It’s also nice to have a reason to keep up to date with all of the cultural events I’d want to be going to anyway. What are your thoughts on the “intern culture” that faces most graduates? I was very lucky to find a paid internship; there’s no way I could have supported myself otherwise. I find the culture of unpaid internships very troubling. On a basic level, working for free removes the dignity and autonomy that should come from working hard. I know people who had to move back home in order to afford to intern; it was important to me to be able to leave home and financially support myself after graduating. In what ways has your degree at Manchester been useful to you? All those hours crying in the library over essays actually helped as being a competent writer is essential; from emailing to writing proposals. While there’s a lot that a humanities degree can’t prepare you for, the emphasis it places on thinking critically and independently helps you to handle the rest. Was it a bit of a jolt, adjusting from the lifestyle of a student to that of a Career Woman? I felt ready for a change after graduating. I think I craved the structure that a 9-6 routine would bring. Although I now have a severe appreciation for the joy of the weekend. Discotheque Confusion covers culture, style, art, music and history, with personal essays thrown in too. Do you think having the blog on your CV helped you get the job at Creative Tourist? Absolutely. I’ve been writing my blog since 2006 and though it’s always been something I’ve done for fun it has led to other projects and bits on the side that I think helped my CV too. What advice would you give to people thinking about aiming for a graduate job in marketing – or to those wanting to set up their own blog? This sounds basic, but I often search for jobs online and read the descriptions for the roles I like the sound of to check what sort of skills and experience are essential; it’s a good way of knowing how to plug the gaps in your CV. I also used the careers service for interview practise. Blog-wise, you should start one because you have an interest you want to share, rather than viewing it as a career tool. Focus on producing interesting and substantial content – it doesn’t need to be serious but make it you and let it be a place to show what you’re about.
ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
SPORT
/TheMancunion @Mancunion_Sport
Sports Editors: Andrew Georgeson, Tom Dowler and Thomas Turner
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Contact: sport@mancunion.com
Golden weekend at the BUCS Gatorade Nationals Lizzy Demetriou Sports Reporter
Athletics: Jerome McIntosh, who recently qualified to the final at the Northern Athletics Championships competed in the Men’s 60m and 200m, managing to run a quick 7.17secs in the 60m heats securing a place in the semi finals later that day. He then sailed through to the 200m semi finals on Sunday where he was frustratingly placed in lane two however, still managed to run a sub-23 (22.47secs). Callum McClean also ran in the 60m, making the semi-finals with a rapid 7.20. secs Both ran incredibly well. First year Spanish and French student Kate Anson competed in the high jump for the first time in two years and made it to the final where she jumped 1.58m. This was an amazing comeback from injury. She had only trained two weeks prior to the Nationals due to an ankle operation in December. Karate: UoM Karate did incredibly well
securing an array of medals across the weekend of competition. Club Captian Cristina Finta secured a gold medal in senior Ladies Kata, along
with a Silver medal in Kumite U55kg. She was also part of the women’s team who won silver in the women’s team Kumite, along with Melissa Finlay,
Holley Carey, Erica ‘Kiki’ Pericas Hewitt and Victoria Ogunseitan (who also got Intermediate ladies Kata Bronze. Senior ladies kumite U63kg silver was also won
by Melissa Finlay. The men also did well, seeing Adrian Diez secure Novice Men’s kumite gold (middle weight U70kg). Manchester overall came second in terms of BUCS points, while Edinburgh came first (with three times as many people in their squad).
Swimming Eleni Papadopoulos got two gold medals and one bronze achieving seasons bests in doing so. She tweeted: Great to finish @BUCSsport #GatoradeNationals with two Golds and a bronze with seasons bests and points for the Uni team @SportManchester. Rebecca Guy swam incredibly well, not only winning a gold medal but also achieving the BUCS record (50m freestyle)
Gold medal winning Adrian Diez, who won the novice men’s kumite. Photo: @mancunion_sport
Judo: Natasha Stevens won Gold Under 52kg for Judo (1 kyu & below) ; silver for Ignas Bolsakovas Men’s U73kg (2 Kyu & below) Gold for Slyamzhar Akhmetzharov U90kg bronze for women >78kg Chelsey taylor (2kyu & below).
You can’t appeal your results simply because you’re unhappy with them. If this is the case, you should contact your academic advisor or tutors for detailed feedback. This will ensure that you are well equipped to improve for your next assessment period. However, if your performance was affected by mitigation or if there was an error in your assessment that affected the results, you can submit an academic appeal. Full details on the four appeal grounds can be found on our website. You can also pop into the Student Union advice service and speak to a member of staff. manchesterstudentsunion.com/adviceservice
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ISSUE 16/ 3rd MARCH 2014 WWW.MANCUNION.COM
Seamus Soal takes a look at what’s going on in the University’s martial-arts scene Last week we saw the Manchester University Judo and Jiu Jitsu clubs bring home the silverware... but the success stories have not stopped there. Last week we saw the dominance of the grabbling and throwing side of martial arts but this week we have the high kicking and nose busting efforts from the striking martial arts. Manchester University Chinese Kickboxing had two of their fighters (along with the associate club NWCKB) compete in the WKC English nationals. Laura Wylde and Thomas Zielser took a trip to the Geore H Carnell centre in Urmston to qualify for the English team which will be fighting in the world championships in November. Both have recently achieved their black belts and the success has stopped there as both of them qualified for Team England. Tom was bested by a member of Mushin Kai Liverpool and former world champion to come away with a bronze medal. A major success as Tom is still relatively new to competitions and his tough opponent did not dampen his spirits. How many others can claim they are competing in a world championship with just under a year of competition experience? Laura (the current world champion) having reached the final was unlucky not to come away with a win due
to some impressive head kicks. Nonetheless the silver medal will see her competing in the world championships for her third year in a row and a crusade
This week, he reviews recent success in the BUCS Championships stage, an increase by two from last year. Laura and Tom will be representing England and whereas I will be relish the opportunity to represent Northern
On the 22nd and 23rd of February, the Manchester University Shotokan Karate Club competed in the BUCS Gatorade Nationals in Sheffield. 17 strong
Manchester University Shotokan Karate Club had great success at the BUCS championsips. Photo: @mancunion_sport
has begun in defence of her world title! This is a major success for Manchester University Chinese Kickboxing as they now have three competitors representing their nation on the world
Ireland. The kickboxing club were not alone in representing the striking martial arts clubs as the karate club also got in on the action.
competitors hauled in an impressive tally of 2 Gold, 3 Silver and 1 Bronze medals, ranking 2nd overall behind Edinburgh for the second year. MUSKC did well to match the stellar
performances of the day, with excellent performances from everyone. During the first day Victoria Ogunseitan lead the charge for intermediate Kata, only beaten by the best but winning third place through repecharge. Club Captain Cristina Finta stormed through the first day claiming Gold for Senior Ladies Kata. Next up the Senior Ladies Team composed of Holly Carey, Melisa Finlay and Cristina Finta fought strong all day losing to Edinburgh in a nail biting final. The second day saw Adrian Diez putting on a fantastic performance and winning the final in the Novice U70kg Kumite in his first competition with the MUSKC. Cristina Finta and Melisa Finlay stayed strong all day, both placing Second for Ladies Senior U55kg and U61kg respectively. Club Captain Cristina Finta said: “I can’t put into words how honoured I am to be the Captain of this team!” She continued: “Every single one of you showed great spirit on and off the mats. The camaraderie was remarkable and I am extremely proud of every team member!” The ecstatic club captain concluded her team talk with further praise: “You’ve made yourselves, the club, the University and our Sensei proud!”
Manchester squash Edinburgh
Manchester ease through to the semi-finals after convincingly beating Edinburgh University of Manchester
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Edinbugh Universitty
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Andy Dowdeswell Sport Reporter The quarter finals of the squash championship are in a similar format to that of the Champions League. Each team undertakes a league set-up and the top two teams from each league enter the final knock-out stages. Manchester, having destroyed Newcastle 1sts in the previous round 5-0, were full of confidence and looking to repeat their 3-2 victory against Edinburgh in the group stage. The first head to head to take place involved the two 3rd seeds. Edinburgh’s 3rd seed is considered to be the best player of the Edinburgh team, so when placed as 3rd, Richard Johnson (Manchester’s 3rd seed) faced a difficult task. The inconsistent Johnson was no match for the superior Mamda who played some lovely drop shots, manoeuvring Johnson in nearly every point. After talking to Johnson post game, he was venting his frustration at his inconsistency; “I seem to be unable to play the same way from match to match”. A worrying, but expected start
for Manchester was the only blip on the score sheet. The second match to come to conclusion was the enthralling 5th seed tie. Gibbs, who has played some epic
opening stages of the game, winning the first two sets 11-5, 11-5. His superior movement forced Bounge into some difficult shots which he couldn’t deliver on. Frustrated, Bounge started to slash
illness making some terrifically attacking strokes, especially on the backhand side. Dakin had to force the play, trying to make the points as short as possible. This meant he had to play
Manchester storm through to the semi-finals of the BUCS championships after beating Edinburgh 4-1. Photo: @mancunion_sport
games this season including an hour long 5 set match against Loughborough, started brightly, quickly establishing a 2-0 lead. However, Bounge of Edinburgh recovered slightly snatching a set back before Gibbs recovered his composure. Gibbs looked very comfortable in the
at the ball, and Gibbs stamped his authority, although there was a blip in concentration in the 4th set. Manchester’s 1st and 4th seeds then dominated both of their matches. A very enjoyable watch as Alex Dakin, Manchester’s 4th seed, played through
some very attacking and risky shots, which he made 80% of the time. With Dakin’s victory, Manchester were now 2-1 clear with their number player still to play. Hibberd, who had just finished 7th in the individual competition was as equally impressive
in dispatching his opposite seed, Zahan Dastur. In 3 sets, HIbberd showed some spectacular finesse as he used the angles of the court to expose the lack of pace of Dastur who couldn’t retrieve enough balls. It was a fine performance from Hibberd which secured Manchester’s semi-final place. Some beautiful drop shots mixed in with lobs forced Dastur to move from corner to corner in every point. In one particular point, Hibberd handled the power hitting of Dastur beautifully to engineer a neat drop shot which wasn’t even chased. A wonderful point which summed up the whole match in truth. With one game left Manchester’s second seed Sentilkumar buzzed excitedly around the court. His energetic style was far superior to that of the cumbersome efforts of David Jones, his opponent for Edinburgh. Sentilkumar hurried his opponent on every shot, and looked comfortable in his 3-0 victory. In the end, Manchester never looked like losing. They will now most likely face Nottingham in the semi-finals, the winners of last year’s event, however, full of confidence, Manchester look as if they could go very far in this competition.
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#PurpleandProud Tyrants toppled by Sheffield Hallam Defiant end to a disappointing season for Manchester’s American Footballers University of Manchester
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Sheffield Hallam University 42 Rob Eden Sport Reporter
The Manchester Tyrants (0-6) faced the Sheffield Hallam Warriors (6-1) last Sunday trying to find their first victory that had proved all too elusive. Nevertheless, despite a hardened performance, Manchester succumbed to Hallam’s running game to fall 42-14, albeit unfortunately. Both offences started brightly. Hallam in particular mounting their opening drive with a score, which included a nervous fourth down attempt to gain the necessary yards for a first down. Manchester also drove into their opponents half with some well-executed runs from Anthony Eiliazadeh, but were unable to capitalise on a decent drive. On their second drive Manchester found out that attempting to throw the ball proved equally as effective as Manchester’s initial running game. Some great receptions from Ben Fowles and Sam Conway kept the chains moving downfield. The most controversial call of the game came later in the drive. Manchester failed to advance on thirdand-one, prompting the Tyrants’ coaches to go for it on fourth down. Manchester’s rookie quarterback Rob Eden snapped the ball and rolled out right. Deciding to scramble, he was hit out of bounds on the sideline as he landed on the 10yard marker with the ball stretched out in front of him. On both sidelines, it appeared that the rookie had made the necessary yards, however, the chains had not been appropriately stretched
out. The slack in the chains meant that Eden had been forced out 1-yard shy, resulting in a controversial turnover for Sheffield Hallam. Taking full advantage of this luck, Hallam scored again through their well-
quite curl enough for three points. Hallam on the other hand scored again, thus Manchester entered half time with a 20-0 deficit to overcome. The second half was not necessarily tighter, Manchester had been arguably
Chris Payne countless times with a simple hitch route. Hallam had been blitzing all game to put pressure on Eden and frequent Tyrant completions made the Warriors rethink their game plan. The Tyrants found themselves deep
Manchester rally during their 42-14 defeat to Sheffield Hallam. Photo: Joana Kembrytė
devised offensive playbook designed to fool defences. Hallam run a hybrid of a double-wing offence, actually only having one wing. This means that they essentially line up with eight blockers that substantiate their running game, and two wide receivers on a particular side who constantly motion towards the ball in order to trick defensive players trying to read the play. A lot of people view it as an unattractive way of playing American Football, however it is usually very effective and can trick the best defense. Manchester’s offence failed to score any points in the first half, although they came close with a field goal that couldn’t
playing just as well as Hallam in the first half, but the second half was certainly more reflective of this sentiment in terms of the scoreboard. In fact the second half would have finished at 14-14, had the Tyrants not been going for it on 4th down with twenty seconds remaining in the game. Manchester started the second half with some venom in the passing department. Last time out against UClan Rams, the Tyrants’ receivers had completed three passes from 21 attempts. This game was the complete opposite. The start of the second half saw new-quarterback Eden finding veteran-quarterback-turned-receiver
in Hallam territory, but unfortunately, whilst trying to make a play and scramble around the pocket, a sack on Eden forced a fumble, which Hallam recovered to run it back for a touchdown. Manchester’s defence faired much better in the second half. Defensive captain James Bowyer managed to convey some ideas to his linebackers which proved much more effective. Notably middle linebacker James Hudson was able to read the tricky Hallam offence much better, recording numerous tackles. The success showed as Manchester limited Hallam to only one successful long drive in the second half.
The fourth quarter is where the Tyrants stepped up. With an ever improving passing game forcing Hallam’s linebackers to respect the pass, Lawrence Sarpong was allowed space to mount a superb run up the middle of the Hallam defensive line. Cutting past a would-be tackler, he accelerated left into open space, eventually bundling over for a touchdown to cap a magnificent 40yard run. The Tyrants went for the twopoint conversion, and were successful. The rookie quarterback rolled out right and threw a difficult pass across his body to find Hugo Dowson, who brought the ball down with ease. Manchester’s next drive was also successful. A succession of quick passes, including a bullet to Fowles, took Manchester over the halfway line. Manchester’s rookie quarterback rolled out right, managed to avoid blitzing defensive linemen, and threw a deep missile to Dowson who was in one-onone coverage. Dowson shook off his man and leapt superbly to catch the ball, bringing it down safely, he made one cut and sprinted past the cornerback to leave him for dead. Tom Trier recovered an onside kick for Manchester, however with 40 seconds remaining on the clock, and Hallam defending deep, the drive was unsuccessful. 20 seconds was just enough time for Hallam to score once more, however, it was evident that Manchester’s second half display had shocked Hallam. In a somewhat weird way, Manchester seemed far happier than Hallam after the game. Overall, Manchester could feel proud at their display, the result looked like a walkover, but realistically the Tyrants gave Hallam a much tougher game than they had anticipated.
Ping-pong merrily on high A day of mixed results from the Mighty Bees aginst Oxford and Liverpool Eve & Erdoo Yongo Sport Reporters
The University of Manchester men’s firsts Table Tennis team faced the University of Liverpool’s men’s firsts in a match that ended 6 – 9 at the Sugden Centre last week. Before the match Manchester’s men were level on points with Liverpool. Unfortunately for them, the defeat put Liverpool’s men just ahead of them in the table. The tie began with Mason against Lee. Both Mason and Lee started strongly, but it was Mason who narrowly won the first set 11 – 9. This was mainly down to his impressive serves which very often caught Lee off guard, forcing him to make costly errors. The second set went in a similar fashion and ended 11 – 7. Despite Manson’s initial lead, Lee managed to edge Manson to a 3 – 2 victory. Trailing 6 – 8 overall, the UoM men went into the doubles game with a point to prove. Facing Liverpool’s Lee and Cussol, Shrimpton and Manson came together to make the “dream team”. Despite the nickname, the duo were not
Manchester struggled to compete with the ferocity of Nottingham’s rallies. Photo: @mancunion_sport
able to get off to a dream start, losing the first set 9 – 11. After this though, their luck seemed to improve and they took both the second (14 – 12) and third set with a more convincing score of 11 – 2. Cussol and Lee did not fade away easily though and in the end came back to win the game 3 – 2.
Our player of the match goes to Adam Choi, who, out of both teams won all of his games in style. The University of Manchester women’s firsts thrashed the University of Oxford firsts. The home side beat Oxford 5-0 to go joint second with the University of Newcastle’s first team in
the BUCS league. Roose kicked off the tie against Cao, while Wei played Zeng. Both UoM women started fast out of the blocks taking their first sets, Wei considerably more comfortably (11 – 0) than Roose (12 -10). Both players did come through to win their opening games in straight sets.
This form continued through to the doubles matches. The combination of Roose and Wei was brilliant are they produced some of the best play of the day. In the end Roose and Wei took that game 11 – 6, 11 – 5, 11 – 4. In the final singles games Roose played Zeng and Wei played Cao. This had to be the most competitive game (Wei vs. Cao) and we could really tell who Oxford’s strongest player was. Initially Wei overcame Cao to take the first couple of sets (14 – 12 and 12 – 10) but then Cao showed her fighting spirit to take the next two (5 – 11 and 3 – 11). This determination from Cao only inspired Wei further and in the end she took the game 3 – 2, with 11 – 5 in the last set. Roose was our player of the day. Despite a few minor errors, she showed real quality on the table. Her victory in straight sets against Zeng was a fantastic individual performance. Final Scores: UoM Men 2 - 3 Liverpool Men UoM Women 5 -0 Oxford Women
SPORT
3rd MARCH 2014/ ISSUE 16 FREE
MANCHESTER’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER
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BUCS nationals
Way of the Warrior
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Tyrants 0-7
: @Mancunion_Sport : /TheMancunion
WWW.MANCUNION.COM
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Mauled to death
Manchester demolish York 41-10 in a six-try rout University of Manchester
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The University of York
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Tom Dowler Sport Editor The University of Manchester’s 1st XV men’s side demolished the University of York 1st XV 41-10 when the two BUCS Premier North B sides met at the Armitage centre last Wednesday. Manchester began the game knowing only a win would suffice as they languished in the relegation zone, with this in mind, the home side began with some huge collisions in the early exchanges and set a good tempo from the start. Pressure in the York half earned UoM a penalty and with a solid kick to the corner from fly half Paddy Shaw, Manchester put their well-drilled line-out to work. A powerful rolling maul was set up from a faultless setpiece and York couldn’t stop open side flanker Danny Secker edging his way over for the opening score of the game. Owen Waldin pulled the conversion attempt to the left from the right hand side of the pitch. Nonetheless, Manchester took led 5-0 after just five minutes. From the restart, Manchester again showed their intent to attack, fizzing the ball out wide in a thrilling counterattacking move that made 40 metres, before the ball was knocked into touch. York scored from first phase ball from the resulting line-out. A simple dummy scissors move cut open the Manchester defence with the imposing York outside-centre drawing the final defender before releasing his full-back who edged away from the covering defence in an excellent response from the visitors. The visiting fly-half made a fine conversion in challenging kicking conditions to give the away side a narrow 5-7 at the ten minute mark. The hosts responded immediately, piling on the pressure on the York defensive line. The referee gave a penalty as York continually failed to roll away after tackling wave after wave
of purple shirts and Manchester again opted to kick to the corner, knowing that the line-out was working well. After another phenomenal driving maul, the referee awarded loose-head prop Ryan Getley the try despite the pile of bodies in his way. Waldin’s conversion attempt from the opposite side of the pitch again fell short, struck directly into the wind. Manchester held a deserved 10-7 lead. With the wind at his back, the York No.10 caused the scrambling Manchester defence problems with probing kicks deep into home territory. On the half hour mark, a mix up at the
first half. The York No.8 stormed off the back of a scrum and made a damaging break before feeding his scrum-half. The referee controversially penalised Jamie Pudding’s tackle to the surprise of the spectators. The York outside half went for the posts, but his effort drew to the left of the posts. Shortly afterwards, York again piled the pressure on Manchester and won a penalty after the visitors managed to execute a fine rolling maul of their own. With confidence at a high point for the visitors, they opted to kick for the corner, to no avail as the hosts comfortably diffused the York maul,
With wind behind, Manchester started the second half with ambition as they ran the ball from deep. Harry Booth thought he was in for a miracle 60-metre run in as he was released down the left wing, however, reality kicked in and the combative hooker was bundled into touch by a two man defensive effort from York. When the York full-back kicked out on the full, he gave Manchester a perfect attacking platform just outside of the visitors’ 22. The home side’s maul once again proved too much for the visiting forwards to cope with, conceding another penalty. The decision to
Manchester’s set piece dominance saw the hosts bulldoze York 41-10. Photo: @mancunion_sport
back resulted in a penalty for crossing when the Manchester three-quarters ran into each other collecting an awkwardly bouncing ball. The York No.10 opted to take the shot at goal and bisected the uprights to level the scores at 10-10. This was to be the visitors’ last contribution to the score board; however, the remainder of the first half was ferociously contested. It was Manchester’s turn to be tested in defence in the final minutes of the
forcing a turnover from the next ruck. Manchester cleared their lines downfield, re-gathered possession and pressurised York’s final third of the pitch. York infringed at the breakdown 30-metres out from their own line in the middle of the pitch and Waldin added three points with a confident strike of the ball to give his side the lead as the half time whistle blew. After a promising opening 40 minutes, Manchester led York by 13 to 10.
kick to the corner was vindicated by another fine take in the line-out by Tom Harrison and then Nikolas Salmon forced his way over for the hosts’ third try of the game. Waldin slotted a wonderful conversion from the left hand touchline, weighting his effort perfectly to draw the ball in from the right to the delight of the Manchester faithful. There was finally some daylight between the two teams with Manchester leading 20-10.
The hosts were under a barrage of pressure for several minutes; however, Manchester turned defence into attack when Waldin hacked a loose ball up field. The kick chase was excellent and the referee awarded the hosts another penalty. Shaw kicked for the corner yet again and from another fantastic driving maul, Secker managed to sneak his way in under the posts, by peeling off the back of the maul and running in unopposed for his second try of the game. After the whistle blew for the try, York’s tempers raged with the visiting inside centre taking particular offence to Alain Warden. The Manchester coach rightly begged his side to let the scoreboard do the talking. While some diplomacy took place Waldin added the simple conversion to stretch the score to 27-10. Any thoughts of a York comeback were quashed minutes later when James Carding crashed through several would-be defenders to score under the sticks. With another Waldin conversion Manchester held a commanding 34-10 lead. At this point, spectators again noticed the poor attitude of a handful of visiting players, who seemed more intent on starting a fight than restoring pride to their score line. The hosts admirably maintained their discipline and marched progressively up field with a succession of penalties and line-outs, before Will Simmonds, the crafty outside centre swerved his way through a trail of defenders to round proceedings off with a superb solo score underneath the posts. The easy conversion for Waldin saw the final whistle bring the game to a halt at Manchester 41 York 10. Man of the Match: Tom Harrison was the key to the dominance in the lineout and was a nuisance all over the pitch. On Wednesday Manchester face Loughborough 2nd XV at the Armitage Centre (14:00 K.O.), knowing another victory could potentially secure UoM their place in the BUCS Premier North B league.